As we approach the Labor Day Holiday I want to thank the thousands of people who work to make Gainesville the special city that it is: teachers, bankers, garbage men, police officers, firefighters, doctors and small business owners. I salute you.

I would like to encourage business owners to sign up for the annual Business Police Academy sponsored by the
Gainesville Police Department. The 11 week course begins September 9. Classes are held each Tuesday from 7pm-9pm. The course is open to business owners, managers and employees and will include instruction on shoplifting prevention, D.U.I., identity theft and self defense tactics. For more information contact Crime Prevention Officer Joe Britte.

I'd also like to invite you to take part in the 20th annual Shore Sweep September 27 from 8:00am-1:00pm on Lake Lanier. Volunteers will be able to pick up trash bags at participating marinas and parks and return filled bags to designated dumpsters. In return for a full bag of trash, volunteers will receive a T-shirt or a scouting patch. Volunteers are also invited to a volunteer appreciation party beginning at 1 pm at Lanier Park on Buford Dam Road.

If you have any questions about the Business Police Academy or Shore Sweep email citycouncil@gainesville.org or call me at 770-535-6865.