Decatur Focus - City of Decatur

Focus
City of Decatur
Inside:
DeF AnnuAL
report
Clear zone
OCTOBER 2015
Volume 26 • Number 3
Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia
#gawrites:
Over Your
Head in a
Good Way
Another successful Decatur
Book Festival has come and
gone, but the #gawrites public
art installation remains as
a lingering reminder of the
literary fun we enjoy here.
Decatur artist Larry Holland
planned and installed this
collection of 40 quotes from
Georgia writers in a variety
of genres from fiction to
pop music. As you stroll the
tree-lined streets of Decatur,
be sure to look up and look
out for these quotes, posted
on light poles, that surprise,
delight and amuse. The project
is sponsored by the Decatur
Arts Alliance.
Find out more about Larry
Holland at facebook.com/
fisbn. For more information
about the arts in Decatur, visit
decaturartsalliance.org.
News
3City
9 BUsiness
NEWs
16DBA
NEWs
17
Decatur
events
21
School
news
23
Around
Town
Focus
City of Decatur
Focus on
Downtown
Development
Decatur Is a
Finalist for
Groundbreaker
of the Year
The City of Decatur is one of only 11 finalists (and the
only city) for Atlanta Magazine’s 2015 Groundbreaker
of the Year award. The theme for this year is “Building
(and Rebuilding) a Better Place to Live.” Decatur was
selected for its commitment to sustainability in all
aspects of community.
The Groundbreakers Class of 2015 was selected
from a wide range of fields, including developers,
builders, preservationists, tech firms, universities, nonprofits, and individuals who are passionate
about Atlanta’s civic life. The 2015 Groundbreakers
are featured in the September 2015 issue of Atlanta
Magazine (which can be viewed online) and will be
recognized at an awards event in October, in which
the Groundbreaker of the Year will be announced.
The Decatur Focus is a joint publication of the City of
Decatur, the Decatur Downtown Development Authority
and the Decatur Business Association. It is a newsletter
intended to provide announcements and information
related to events, activities, and businesses in the City of
Decatur. The purpose of the newsletter is to promote the
city and encourage the exchange of information among
residents, business owners and the school system. Letters
to the editor, editorials or other opinion pieces are not
published. All press releases, announcements and other
information received for publication are subject to editing. Information found in the Focus is also posted on
Decatur’s official website at decaturga.com. The deadline
for submitting articles, announcements or advertising is the first day of the month preceding publication.
Contact: Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur,
GA 30031, 404-371-8386; fax 404-371-1593; email: casie.
[email protected].
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DECATUR CITY COMMISSION
Jim Baskett....................................................Mayor
Patti Garrett................................Mayor Pro Tem
Bill Bolling....................................Commissioner
Fred Boykin.................................Commissioner
Scott Drake..................................Commissioner
DECATUR DOWNTOWN
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Board
Chris Sciarrone, Chair
Linda Curry
John Drake
Bill Floyd
Scott Kentner
Tony Leung
Fisher Paty
Decatur Business
Association
DECATUR BUSINESS
ASSOCIATION
Tim Martin.............................................. President
Kyle Williams......................................... Treasurer
Floyd Smith............................................ Secretary
Marc Brennan............................. Past President
Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com
2 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
City News
Decatur Neighborhood
Alliance Meeting
Wed., Oct. 28 • 6:30 p.m. • Eloise T. Leveritt Building • 2635 Talley St.
R
epresentatives from Decatur neighborhood associations, block associations,
and anyone interested in starting a neighborhood group are invited to attend
the October Decatur Neighborhood Alliance meeting. October is National
Code Enforcement Month, so Codes Enforcement Officer Cynthia Hardnett
will answer your questions about the importance of ensuring that homes and buildings
are safe, secure, and properly maintained.
The weather is nice and school is in session. This means there are a lot of walkers, runners, and cyclists on the streets and sidewalks. Property owners can help keep them safe
by ensuring that sidewalks are clear by pruning all plants and vegetation, so children and
other pedestrians will not have to walk in the streets. It is easier for pedestrians to walk
down the sidewalk if low branches are trimmed. Learn how codes related to graffiti, signs,
and tall weeds help keep neighborhoods and business districts inviting places for all.
Email [email protected] to confirm your attendance at the meeting or to
update a neighborhood association listing that is currently posted on decaturga.com.
Decatur 101 Encore Classes
Set For October
Calling All Graduates!
ecatur 101 Encore Classes will be Tuesday, Oct. 13, and Tuesday, Oct. 20,
and will feature the newly renovated Beacon Municipal Center, with tours of
Ebster Recreation and the Police/Municipal Court buildings. The program
will include a history of the Beacon community as well as more in-depth information about Active Living, the Police Department and Municipal Court.
Classes will be limited to the first 40 participants. You must be a graduate of Decatur
101 to attend. Email [email protected] or call 678-553-6512 to register. Be
sure to include your name, mailing address, and the year you completed Decatur 101.
D
Decatur Artway
Five Sculptures
Around Downtown
F
ive sculptures are now installed in
downtown Decatur as part of the
Decatur Artway, the public arts initiative established by the Decatur Arts
Alliance and the City of Decatur. Be sure to
check them out anytime, and join us Oct. 11,
2-4 pm, for the opening reception with the
artists. Look for tents set up near each installation and enjoy light refreshments as you
view the sculptures. Information about the art
pieces and the artists, and the Decatur Artway
program, will be available. To tour the Decatur
Artway on your smartphone, download the
free Otocast app from iTunes or Google Play.
The artists and locations are:
“Emphatic Lines 3” by Daniel Baerlecken
Lower MARTA plaza / Church Street
“AMUK” by Ira Hill
1 West Court Square, near Souper Jenny
“Mortification” by Matthew Phillips
Upper MARTA plaza, near Squash Blossom
at 113 E. Court Square
“Untitled” by Scott Gerard
Old Courthouse square, near the
community bandstand
“This Is Something We Had to Go
Through” (photo above) by James Davis
Northeast corner, intersection of Sycamore
and Church streets
Find out more about The Decatur Artway at
decaturartsalliance.org.
Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus,
P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, or by email to [email protected].
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 3
City News
Artists and Design Professionals:
Harmony Park Needs
Benches and Bicycle Racks
T
he Decatur Arts Alliance announces a call to create three benches and
three bicycle racks for Harmony Park in the historic Oakhurst neighborhood business district. Artists and design professionals are invited to
design and create functional benches and bike racks for installation. The
project is funded by a grant from the Decatur Craft Beer Festival and in collaboration with the Decatur Downtown Development Authority.
Bicycle Rack Project Requirements
Bike racks should be functional, fun, big,
and visible. The bike racks should be weather
resistant to the Georgia climate and accommodate three to eight bicycles. The specific
City of Decatur bicycle guidelines are at
decaturga.com.
Bench Project Requirements
The bench should be six feet long, 20 inches
deep and 30 inches high. Variations in depth
are acceptable but the height and the length
should be consistent. The proposed project
must be made of durable materials that are
easy to maintain in the southeastern climate.
Submission deadline Oct. 31
Artist notification Dec. 1
Installation date Feb. 29,
2016
All entries must be entered
through callforentry.org.
Budget
Designers of benches or bike racks should submit a proposed budget for the design, fabrication, finishing and transportation of the bench or bike rack to the installation site. The budget will be considered as part of the selection process.
Selection
A review committee comprising art professionals and representatives from the
City of Decatur, Oakhurst business district, and the bicycle community will be
responsible for the selection of the winning designs. Proposals will be viewed on
the basis of creativity, artistic merit, functionality for intended purpose, long-term
maintenance, durability, budget, and public safety.
Work deemed unsuitable for public use will not be accepted. Only completed,
ready-to-install work will be accepted. Project concepts, maquettes and artists’ renderings will be considered. The City of Decatur is responsible for all cost for materials during installation, including but not limited to final site preparation, plinth,
clean up, and repair of any damage caused during installation.
Include three images per submission that clearly show a front and back and one
detail shot. Artists may submit more than one submission for a bench and/or bike
rack for consideration, but each sculpture submission must have the three images
specified.
Please describe the installation method of the bench or bike rack. Selected artists will be responsible for transportation to the installation site. Benches and bike
racks must be delivered, stable, well fabricated, and installation-ready.
4 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Cemetery Walking
Tour Season Wraps Up
October 11
T
he last tour of Decatur Cemetery for the
year will be Sunday, Oct. 11, 2:30 p.m.
Join the Friends of Decatur Cemetery for
a leisurely stroll through the Old Section
and learn “old” and “new” facts
about the people who created
our community. Bring your water bottle and sunscreen, lace up
your walking shoes, and enjoy
the fresh fall air. The tour begins
at the Gazebo just off Commerce
Drive.
The new, updated, self-guided
brochure is now available at
City Hall, the Visitor’s Center at 113 Clairemont
Ave., and outside the Cemetery Office at the Bell
Street entrance. Special tours can also be scheduled
throughout the year by contacting [email protected].
City News
Decatur’s STE(A)M
Truck Among Finalists
for STEM Education
Awards
Recognized for excellence in promoting science,
technology, engineering, and math education in
Georgia, Decatur’s STE(A)M Truck was among the
finalists for the 2015 STEM Education awards in
the Extracurricular Program category. This category
recognizes extracurricular programs that provide
opportunities for students to expand STEM skills
and workforce readiness.
The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG)
and the TAG Education Collaborative received
more than 180 nominations for the fourth annual
STEM Education awards.
To learn more about the awards, visit tagonline.
org/events/stem-education-awards/. For additional
information, visit TAG Education Collaborative or
contact Michael Robertson, 404-920-2038, or
[email protected].
Floodplain
Information
Available
T
he Decatur Design, Environment, and Construction Division provides general floodplain
information on property located within the incorporated city limits.
The Decatur Library also provides references on flooding and flood protection.
A map and information service, available
for a $10 fee, explains:
• If a property is in a special flood hazard area
• If a property is in a floodway
• Flood insurance rate map information
• Flood depth information
• If a FEMA elevation certificate for a
property is available in city records
Trinity High Graduate
Honored by Alma Mater
C
larence Scott, a Decatur native who played football on Trinity High
School’s 1965 state championship winning team, was inducted into the
K-State Ring of Honor for his contributions on and off the field. He is one
of only 14 players to receive this honor. Scott’s name is permanently affixed to the facing inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium and is also prominently shown
on the Ring of Honor display in the West Stadium Center concourse inside Gate B.
Full details about the ceremony can be found at kstatesports.com.
Scott was recruited to play football at Kansas State University at a time when colleges in the South would not recruit black students. A defensive back from 1968-70,
Scott played in the first game at what is now the Bill Snyder Family Stadium. As a
senior in 1970, he earned First Team All-America honors from Sporting News and
Look magazine in addition to being a First Team All-Big Eight honoree. Drafted 14th
overall in the 1971 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, Scott played 13 seasons of
professional football and helped the Browns earn four playoff appearances. He played
in the 1973 Pro Bowl. He is also a member of the K-State Athletics Hall of Fame.
Clarence Scott photos and
memorabilia are on display in
the Ebster Recreation Center,
part of the Beacon Municipal
Center, which stands on the site
where Trinity High School
once stood. Trinity
was the high school
for African-American
students during segregation, before fully
merging with Decatur
High School in 1966.
An accurate street address or DeKalb
County/Decatur tax parcel identification
number is needed to obtain this information. Contact: 404-370-4104 or jennings.
[email protected].
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 5
City News
Brighten the Holiday Season for
Decatur Children and Seniors
Lifelong Decatur
Presents:
oin A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur in making the holiday season brighter
for children and seniors in Decatur. You can help by sponsoring a child or senior.
Shop for them yourself or if you’re busy with your own holiday preparations, consider making a donation that will be used for clothing, books, and gifts.
This is the 21st holiday season in which Decatur residents, places of worship, businesses,
neighborhood associations, and clubs join together in this endeavor. Thanks to the continued generosity of our community, A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur has served
thousands. Last year contributions from our community helped more than 600 children
and seniors.
City Schools of Decatur Bond
Referendum Information Session
J
Gift Giving: Donors are requested to spend between $100 and $150 on each recipient, based on a wish list they will receive. Wish lists specific to each recipient are created
through an in-person conversation with seniors and each parent or guardian. Each list includes a good mix of wants (toys as well as a book for the children) and needs. Too busy to
shop? Make a financial contribution instead and we will do all the shopping for you! Send
contributions to A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031.
Other Ways to Help: If you have a couple of weekday hours available, we can use your
help checking phone messages, returning calls, making copies, preparing mail-outs, and
doing other light office work. Times are flexible.
For more information on sponsoring a child or senior or on other ways to help call
404-378-8068 or email [email protected].
You are invited to an information session with
City Schools of Decatur board members and staff
on the upcoming bond referendum. To find out
more about proposed school construction projects so you can make an informed decision when
you vote, please attend one of these meetings:
Saturday, Oct. 10 • 10 a.m.
Oakhurst Baptist Church, 222 East Lake Dr.
Thursday, October 15 • 6:30 p.m.
Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St.
These meetings are presented by Decatur’s
Lifelong Community Advisory Board. For
more information about the bond, visit the City
Schools of Decatur website: csdecatur.net or turn
to page 22. For more information about Lifelong
Decatur and the board, contact leeann.harvey@
decaturga.com or 678-553-6548.
14th Annual MLK Service Project Set for January 16-18
D
ecatur’s Martin Luther King
Jr. Service Project is a volunteer home repair program
that enables lower-income
senior homeowners to remain in their
homes safely, comfortably, and affordably.
More than 1,000 people volunteer each
year to provide these much-needed repairs at no charge. Volunteers weatherize,
add handicap-accessible features, replace
rotten wood, paint, and do yard work
during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday
weekend. The project committee invites
your business, neighborhood association,
place of worship, or civic organization to
join in the effort.
The MLK Service Project is supported
through grants and private donations,
both financial and in-kind. Your gift is tax
deductible. For more information about
sponsorship and donations, contact Paul
Mitchell at sponsor@mlkserviceproject.
com. For information about volunteering,
contact Lee Ann Harvey, 678-553-6548,
or [email protected].
6 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
This water purification system outside
Fire Station No. 1 provided more than
500 gallons of water to residents during the July water crisis.
City News
SU N D
AY O c to b e r
MO
2015
Recycle this
hardware free
N DAY TU ES DAY 18
W ED N ES D
AY TH
19
U R SDAY 20
FR IDAY 21
SATU R DAY
22
23
24
Autumn
Electronics Saturday
Recycling Day October 31
25
26
27
29
Styrofoam Recyling 28
9 am-1
pm
30
& Shredding, too!
31
TR
IN
IT
N
Y
DHS
COMMERCE
DECATUR PUBLIC WORKS
2635 Talley St.
AVE.
COLUMBIA
AGNES
SCOTT
CANDLER
MCDOONOU
GH
E. COLLEGE
ENTER
HERE
MARTA
PARKING
TALLEY ST
PUBLIC
WORKS
Electronics
Recycling
Your favorite recycling events — combined!
Recycle your old electronics and Styrofoam and safely shred and recycle your documents
all in one place. It’s simple and convenient. Just drop off your recyclables 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
(Sorry, early drop-offs are not possible.) Contact Sean Woodson at 404-377-5571 or
[email protected] for more information and last-minute updates, or visit
decaturga.com/electronicsrecycling.
Paper Shredding
This is a great opportunity to ensure that your important personal
documents are disposed of properly. AAA Security Shredding
provides secure on-site document shredding, and all shredded
documents will be 100 percent recycled. Most document types
are acceptable, including bills, invoices, correspondence, canceled
checks, tax records, financial statements, purchase orders, and
blueprints and maps.
These items cannot be shredded: Cardboard, glass, plastic,
magazines, napkins, newspapers, paper cups and plates, plastic or
spiral-bound notebooks, phonebooks, three-ring binders, and trash.
DeKalb
Recycles
Electronics
Too
Styrofoam
recycling
• Make sure foam has the “6”
symbol on it
•Rinse and separate food
service containers from
other foam
• No straws, lids, tape,
or stickers
• No foam peanuts or
insulation material
DeKalb County offers electronics reycling year-round, Monday through Friday. Drop off electronics for recycling at the
DeKalb County Central Transfer Station on Memorial Drive.
The service is offered by Keep DeKalb Beautiful in conjunction with the DeKalb County Sanitation Division and Atlanta
Recycling Solutions. All residents of DeKalb County, including Decatur residents, may use this facility.
Adding machines
Answering machines
Batteries, any kind
Cable converter boxes
Cables
Calculators
Component parts
Computer mouses
Computers
Copiers
Digital cameras
Digital projectors
DVD players
Electric lawn mowers
Fax machines
Garden equipment
GPS receivers
Game controllers
Keyboards
Label makers
Mini-towers
Monitors
Pagers
PDAs
Portable CD players
Portable game players
Printer cartridges
Printers
Radios
Remote controls
Routers
Scanners
Servers
Speakers
Stereo equipment
Telephones
Telephony equipment
3-in-1 devices
Typewriters
UPS units
VCRs
Workstations
Zip drives
Recycling fee for TVs: $10
(cash only – exact change
required)
DeKalb County Sanitation
Division Central Transfer Station
DeKalb Tax Commissioner’s Office
4380 Memorial Dr., Decatur
404-371-2654
Hours: Mon.-Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 7
City News
School News
Development dynamics II
Last month, the Focus provided a review of Decatur’s downtown development
vision and development cycles over the last 30 years. That article also provided
information about the positive impact multi-family developments have on property tax revenue, particularly for City Schools of Decatur. In addition, it showed that
downtown multi-family developments account for only 2 percent of the growth in
student enrollment in City of Decatur schools since 1999.
Using existing enrollment numbers and
the local tax revenue generated by downtown
multi-family buildings, it was shown that
these developments created a healthy, positive net income for the school system. For
example, property taxes paid on a $700,000
single-family home generally provide enough
school tax revenue to cover the local cost of
educating one student. The local cost of educating more than one child from a $700,000
home or from homes valued below $700,000
must be covered by other taxpayers. Commercial and multi-family developments,
as well as empty nesters and senior citizen
homeowners, provide the needed school tax
revenue to make up this loss.
Here are a few other issues that are frequently topics of conversation:
“Apartment developments will be flooded with
school-aged children.”
The primary market for these dwellings is
singles and young professionals. These projects fill a gap in Decatur’s housing market by
providing a new, urban rental housing option
for those looking for the flexibility and free-
dom from maintenance that rental housing
provides. The city has worked closely with
the school system’s enrollment consultant to
provide information on these anticipated developments so that enrollment effects could
be incorporated into estimates of the school
system’s growth and expansion plans.
Many assume that these new developments
will exceed the school system’s projections
but it is important to consider the size of the
units in the projects. Of the 624 units currently being built, approximately 69 percent
(430) are efficiencies or one-bedroom units.
The likelihood of any of these units being inhabited by more than one person is extremely
unlikely. The remaining 194 units consist of
approximately 30 percent two-bedroom units
and only 2 percent three-bedroom units.
Using the enrollment consultant’s estimate
for potential students from residential apartments, these units would represent an enrollment growth of approximately 27 students.
Even if all of the efficiency and one-bedroom
units were included, the estimated number of
students would be 87.
M
“Apartment developments will cost the school
system money.”
Unlike owner-occupied condominium developments, apartment developments do not
qualify for homestead exemptions and are
taxed at their full assessed value. The projected local property tax revenue for City Schools
of Decatur from the three downtown apartment buildings under construction (Place
on Ponce, the Alexan and the Arlo), will be
about $715,000 per year. With an estimate of
$7,000 in local tax revenue needed to educate
one student per year, these three developments will provide local property taxes that
cover the costs for 102 students.
• Using a high-end estimate of potential enrollment of 87 students, the school system
will receive at least $105,000 annually to
cover costs for other students.
• Using a mid-range estimate of potential
enrollment of 57 students, the school system will receive at least $315,000 annually
to cover costs for other students.
• Using a low-end estimate of potential enrollment of 27 students, the school system
will receive at least $525,000 annually to
cover costs for other students.
Coming next month in Development Dynamics III – “Decatur Lacks Affordable
Housing Options.”
ore than 80 of the nation’s finest craft breweries will
serve up samples of hundreds of different beers at the
Decatur Craft Beer Festival, Oct. 17, noon-5 p.m. The
4,000 tickets are likely to be snapped up by the time
the Focus makes it to your mailbox, but you can always try your
luck and review this year’s “beer list” at decaturbeerfestival.com.
Proceeds from the festival are distributed in January to Decaturarea nonprofits through a grant process overseen by the festival’s
founders and coordinators. Over the years, the festival has distributed nearly $700,000 to Decatur-area nonprofit groups. Last year,
more than $58,000 was distributed to groups like the Decatur Arts
Alliance, Decatur Makers, Poverty Is Real, Literacy Volunteers of Atlanta, and many more.
8 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Business & Nonprofit News
On the Same Page Events
O
n the Same Page is a citywide
reading initiative whose goal
is to foster a community of
readers by bringing families together around the same book. It is
sponsored by Little Shop of Stories, the
City of Decatur, Decatur Book Festival,
Decatur Education Foundation, Eddie’s
Attic, Decatur Rotary Club and Jim Jarboe Realty Associates.
The 2015 book selection is El Deafo, a
Newbery Honor book by Cece Bell. For more
information visit weareonthesamepage.org or
littleshopofstories.com.
E
Be a True Friend Challenge
In El Deafo, Cece searches for a friend who
will accept her for who she really is. Inspired
by her story, On the Same Page encourages
you to be a true friend to the people in your
life this fall. You could sit with a new group at
lunch, take a treat to a neighbor, or write a letter to a friend far away. Come into Little Shop
of Stories to sign up for our Be a True Friend
Challenge and see all the ways you can pledge
to be kind, inclusive, and friendly this fall.
Decatur Day of Reading
Saturday, Oct. 24 • all day
Decatur Mayor Jim Baskett has proclaimed
Oct. 24 the 2015 Decatur Day of Reading in
honor of On The Same Page. To celebrate,
we challenge everyone to spend 30 minutes
reading El Deafo or any other book.
Art Supply Drive
Thursday, October 22-Friday, Nov. 6
On The Same Page will host an art supply
drive in conjunction with the Georgia Art
Therapy Association. Drop off new, unused
art supplies at Little Shop of Stories to be
given directly to the Elaine Clark Center, Red
Cross, City of Refuge Shelter, as well as other
organizations in need.
What’s Your
Story?
l Deafo is Cece
Bell’s graphic memoir, which is a fancy
way of saying that
it’s the true story of her childhood, and this fall Little Shop
of Stories challenges Decatur
children (and adults, too) to
write their own graphic memoirs. Choose a
story from your life and create a comic strip
or mini graphic novel about it. Write your
story using panels, speech bubbles, thought
balloons and sound effects. Drop your project at Little Shop of Stories by Nov. 1 and it
will be put on display in a special gallery at
the grand finale event. Please make sure to
provide your name, age, phone number, and
email address with each submission.
El Deafo Party*
Thursday, Oct. 22 • 7 p.m.
Now that you’ve read the book, it’s time to
come together for a celebration! We’ll play
games, make crafts, share stories with friends,
learn some sign language. This is always a
favorite event and will be a fun evening you
don’t want to miss.
All events are free and will be held at Little
Shop of Stories unless otherwise noted. Little
Shop is at 133 A East Court Square. For information: 404-373-6300; littleshopofstories.com
On The Same Page Book Club
Friday, Oct. 9 • 5:30 p.m.
Meet up with other kids (and their parents)
who are On The Same Page to discuss how
Cece uses her superpower to pop the bubble
of loneliness and become a true friend.
Exploring Deafness Workshop
Sunday, Oct. 18 • 4 p.m.
How do deaf people play sports? Is the sign for
dog the same in China as it is here? At this interactive workshop your family can practice lip
reading, learn some sign language, try to communicate without speaking, and have common
myths about deafness dispelled. Space is limited
– email [email protected] to sign
up your family.
Cece Bell Author Visit*
Friday, Nov. 6 • 7 p.m.
Doors open at 6 p.m.
Drew Charter Upper School Auditorium
300 E. Lake Blvd., Atlanta
Don’t miss this special celebration, complete
with performances, art, and, of course, a
reading and signing with the author. This
event will be first come, first seated.
Peter Cook Storytelling Performance*
Saturday, Nov. 21 • 4 p.m.
Cannon Chapel, Emory University
515 Kilgo Circle, Atlanta
Peter S. Cook is an internationally renowned
deaf performing artist whose works incorporate American Sign Language, pantomime,
storytelling, acting, poetry, and movement.
Cook uses his whole body to tell stories without saying a word. Tickets can be purchased
at petercook.eventbrite.com and cost $10 in
advance or $12 at the door. This event is first
come, first seated. Doors open at 3 p.m.
*Sign language interpreters will be present at
these events.
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 9
Business & Nonprofit News
DeKalb History Center
Offers School Programs
The DeKalb History Center is offering special school programs
this fall, some of them new programs for specific grade levels.
The center is located in the historic Old Courthouse in downtown Decatur.
Second-Grade History Day
A new program for second-graders takes place on Oct. 6 at the History Center’s
Historic Complex at 720 W. Trinity Place. Second-Grade History Day allows
students to spend nearly two hours with living historians in period clothing who
present the lives of James Oglethorpe, Mary Musgrove, Chief Tomochichi, and
Sequoyah.
Students learn about the early days of the Georgia colony, how the native people were affected by Europeans in their midst, the friendship between Oglethorpe and Tomochichi, and the many accomplishments of Oglethorpe’s Creek
Indian translator, Mary Musgrove. Students meet Cherokee Indian Mark Eaton
as he portrays Sequoyah. Students recite the Cherokee alphabet and learn about
the man who singlehandedly created a written language.
History Adventure
In this program on Oct. 20-22, students will visit eight different living history
stations at the Historic Complex, including the Benjamin Swanton House, the
Mary Gay House, and two pioneer log cabins. The program will focus on the
eighth-grade Georgia History curriculum on Oct. 20-21 and then switch to
fourth-grade early U.S. History on Oct. 22. The stations range from Harriett
Tubman and the Underground Railroad to Mary Gay, early Creek Indians, oldtimey mountain music, African storytelling, Sequoyah, Revolutionary War, early
life in Decatur, and more.
Third Grade History Day
The last school program this fall is the Third-Grade History Day, a two-part program with the first part being held Nov. 4 at the Old Courthouse. Third-graders,
who learn about the foundations of democracy and freedom as part of their curriculum, hear from individuals who made great sacrifices to further the cause of
democracy and freedom in this country. At the event students encounter an actor playing Paul Revere, who was known for his midnight ride but who was also
a mastermind of the American Revolution.
Students talk with Frederick Douglass, who engineered his own escape from
slavery and then wrote and spoke movingly of the inalienable rights of all people,
regardless of race. Susan B. Anthony rallies students to her cause, women’s suffrage, with a passion that pulls them into the action of her story. Part 2 of ThirdGrade History Day will be on March 23, 2016.
For more information on these special programs, school tours, and outreach
programs visit dekalbhistory.org, call 404-373-1088, extension 20, or email
[email protected].
10 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Children in the History Adventure program
learn about prehistoric Native Americans.
Harriett Tubman interacts with students
at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse.
James Oglethorpe portrays
life in the early Georgia Colony.
Business & Nonprofit News
Decatur Farmers Market:
Shop Local for Fresh Produce
Wednesdays, March-December • 4-7 p.m. • On the lawn of First Baptist Church
Saturdays year-round • 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • 498 McDonough St.
Michael Harbin, a member of the Decatur Active
Living Advisory Board and chair of the Market
Community Group for the Decatur Farmers Market, invites you to shop for organic, locally grown,
sustainable foods at these market locations in
Decatur. The individual vendors are happy to chat
and explain what they have grown/baked/prepared or created for sale – an experience you can’t
get at a traditional grocery store.
A peach of a story: during the summer, a
woman came to the Saturday market and bought several bags of Pearson’s peaches. A few hours
later, she came back to the market with a just-out-of-the-oven peach pie she had baked for the
market vendors. Needless to say, everyone dug in and enjoyed.
To subscribe to the Decatur Farmers Market newsletter or for more information, visit decaturfarmersmarket.com.
Decatur resident Kate Christman conducts
cooking chef demonstrations at the Wednesday market.
Ebster Teen Cooking Class
T
en girls graduated from the Ebster teen cooking class, sponsored by Cooking Matters-Open Hands, in August. The six-week program focused on meal preparation,
grocery shopping, food budgeting and nutrition. Teen participants took home a bag
of groceries at the end of each class. Classes were taught by a volunteer chef and
nutrition educator. Cooking Matters has been featured by First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s
Move! campaign and recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for excellence in
nutrition education.
A special thank you to Sally Brozek, Active Living board member; Joy Goetz, nutrition coordinator; Sarah Thorpe, Open Hands coordinator; and Kate Christman,
nutrition educator, for making this program possible.
MAY 2015 • Decatur Focus | 11
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 11
Business & Nonprofit News
Ritson and Barrow
Join Maxim
Fall Festival at
Decatur First
Christian Church
Rachel Ritson, aka the Hair Gypsy, and
Charles Barrow have joined Maxim
Barbers’ full-time staff. Rachel has
been in the hair industry since 1998.
Charles has been carrying on the family tradition of barbering for 25 years.
His father and grandfather were barbers in Decatur.
Maxim Barbers is at 218 E. Ponce
de Leon Ave. The shop now offers
straight razor face shaves. Ask for
Charles and treat yourself to 40 minutes of pampering. Sporting a beard?
Come on in for the MAXIMum beard
trim with a straight razor clean up. No
appointment necessary.
Place on Ponce Second
Phase Complete,
Residents Moving In
T
he Place on Ponce, downtown Decatur’s first new
apartment complex in more than a decade, is
now leasing the completed Phase II of the development. Located on the corner of W. Ponce de
Leon Ave. and Ponce de Leon Place, the 234-unit, twobuilding, five-story development features contemporary
one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and 10,000
square feet of street-level retail space. Amenities include
a 4,000-square-foot resident clubroom, 1,700-square-foot
fitness center, resort-style pool, dog spa, bike repair station,
and two outdoor courtyards.
The first phase, completed in late 2014, consists of 28
units and is fully occupied. The second phase has 206
units. For more information: theplaceonponce.com
12 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Saturday, Oct. 10 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
What: Activities include a chili cook-off, a
cake walk, games, arts and crafts, an inflatable, and exciting raffles. Chili, hot hogs,
popcorn, and other treats will be available.
Where: Decatur First Christian Church
(across from the post office), corner of
Ponce de Leon Avenue and Nelson Ferry
Road.
Fee: Entry wristbands for $5, $20 family
max, including a coupon for free popcorn
or chips for adults.
Information: Call 404-378-3621
Volunteers Needed for
Senior Connections
S
enior Connections, a nonprofit agency delivering meals
to seniors throughout Decatur and DeKalb County, is
gearing up for a busy fall. Volunteers are needed daily to
pack meals Monday through Friday and to deliver meal
routes Monday through Saturday. Deliveries can be done
out of Decatur First United
Methodist Church, Senior Connections’ Chamblee building
and the Bruce Street Lithonia
Senior Center. Volunteering
for two-three hours per month
is a great way to help senior
neighbors who count on Senior
Connections for a healthy meal.
Often, the only person a senior
Senior Connections Developmay see that day is a volunteer.
ment Director Sharon Steele
To learn more or to fill out a
volunteer application visit seniorconnectionsatl.org/volunteer or
call Allison Glass, volunteer manager, 404-488-6167.
‘Tis the Season for a Spooky
Decatur History Lesson
Take a walking ghost tour around Decatur’s
downtown this October. Cost is $15 for adults,
$12 for children under 10. Register in advance at
decaturghosttour.com, or call 404-296-7771.
Business & Nonprofit News
Empower Family Medicine
Opens on Swanton Way
Fierce Reads Young Adult
Book Tour Coming to Decatur
hat would make going to the doctor’s office amazing? Imagine an office with no wait time, where the
doctor is waiting for you. Imagine your doctor being
readily available by email, phone, same or next-day
appointment to respond to your needs. That is the vision for an ideal
medical clinic.
Ideal medical practices are springing up around the nation with
the philosophy of providing the healthcare people need and want,
when they want and need it. Dr. Melissa Black has opened Decatur’s
first community-designed ideal medical clinic at 209A Swanton Way,
Suite 101. Empower Family Medicine is now accepting new patients
ages 18 and up for primary care, integrative medicine and acupuncture. Community members are invited to contact Dr. Black with
ideas for the ideal clinic.
Artwork submissions for an art contest with the theme “Decatur,
Healthy and Strong” are also welcome. Prizes will be awarded for all
age groups. Selected art will be posted for display or sale in the clinic
if desired. Contact: empowerdecatur.com or 404-981-6278.
On Wednesday, Oct. 14, the Fierce Reads tour will stop by Little Shop
of Stories, 133A E. Court Square, at 7 p.m. This young adult event
will feature four authors who write across all genres (from left): Leigh
Bardugo, Josephine Angelini, Emma Mills, and Leila Sales. For more
information visit fiercereads.com/events.
W
Annual Yard Sale Oct. 1-3
First Baptist Church Decatur
Corner of Clairemont Avenue and Commerce Drive
Sale begins at 8 a.m. on Thursday morning, Oct. 1. Proceeds from
purchases are used to fund special projects.
Days for Girls Open House
Saturday, Oct. 3 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Lutheran Church of the Messiah
465 Clairemont Ave.
ays for Girls International is a nonprofit organization (not religiously affiliated) that helps women
and girls gain access to quality sustainable, reusable fabric feminine hygiene kits. Women and girls
in certain areas of the world (and here in the United States)
do not have access to, or cannot
afford, disposable paper hygiene
products.
Not having sanitary supplies
means days without school, days
without work and income, days without leaving home. Many
girls fall so far behind in school that they drop out, and then
the cycle of poverty continues. Many women have to choose
between feeding their children or buying sanitary supplies.
Reusable fabric kits that are comfortable, effective, and discreet give women and girls back days of safety and dignity.
Days for Girls kits have been distributed in more than 75
countries on six continents.
The Decatur Chapter of DfG meets on the first Saturday of
every month at Lutheran Church of the Messiah to cut fabric,
sew, and assemble kits. No sewing experience is necessary.
Donations of 100 percent cotton quilters’ fabric, girls’ size 12
or 14 panties, and washcloths will be taken at the Open House.
Information: daysforgirls.org or facebook.com/dfggeorgia.
D
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 13
Business & Nonprofit News
Woodlands Garden News and Events
Cirque De Catur • Oct. 24 • 5-8 p.m.
Woodlands Garden, 932 Scott Blvd.
Performances by artists from the Imperial Opa Circus will be
featured. Prepare to experience the moving art of acrobats and
contortionists and a demonstration of fire arts. Enjoy food prepared by Kevin Clark, local chef and owner of Homegrown GA,
accompanied by beer from Three Taverns and Creature Comforts as well as signature cocktails and other circus fare.
Guests can participate in raffles to win items such as an overnight at the Four Seasons, a bike from Bicycle South, or landscape planning services from Leitch Landscape Co. A silent
auction will offer original artwork by photographer Virginia
Twinam Smith.
Event proceeds will support Woodlands Garden’s campaign
Keep It Green Indie-Catur, raising funds to purchase the 915
Clairemont Ave. corner property adjacent to the garden and for
improvements to make the garden a more user-friendly community amenity.
Only 200 tickets are available – early bird tickets cost $60 per person; after Oct. 15 tickets
will sell for $75. Tickets may be purchased at woodlandsgarden.org where information about
the campaign can also be found. Free shuttle parking will be provided from the First Baptist
Church parking lot.
Makers Play Games
at Maker Faire
“Making” isn’t always
about solving a real-life
problem with a creative
solution – sometimes
it’s just building something because it’s fun.
Decatur Makers have
been gathering twice
monthly over the summer to work on projects
they’re showcasing at
Maker Faire Atlanta, Oct. 3-4, in downtown
Decatur. Stop by their booth and play with
their trebuchet cornhole, super-sized jenga,
3D-printed super spirograph, huge SOMA
cubes, and more. They’ve also worked on a
rocket ship photo booth and will display their
Decatur Lantern Parade bee swarm. For more
information: decaturmakers.org.
Green Ribbons in Decatur Support ‘Keep It Green Indie-Catur’ Campaign
In the midst of ribbons and bows, Woodlands Garden rolled out the final phase of its Capital
Campaign on Sept. 1. With $300,000 left to raise, the garden
hopes to wrap up by year’s end its efforts to secure funds for
the purchase of the lot at the corner of Clairemont Avenue
and Scott Boulevard.
The campaign opened with a flourish when colorful ribbons
festooned the lot at 915 Clairemont Ave., marking the beginning of the “Keep It Green Indie-Catur” ribbon sales. Green
ribbons have been cropping up all over town as residents rally
around this campaign.
You can support the preservation of a green Decatur by purchasing a $20 ribbon at woodlandsgarden.org or at local retailers Intown Ace or Little Shop of Stories. Tie your ribbon on
a tree near your home and a matching one will be displayed at
the Scott-Clairemont corner. A founding sponsor of the Woodlands Garden capital campaign is
Private Bank of Decatur.
New Classes and Services at Solstice Urban Retreat
S
olstice Urban Retreat is
growing and adding services
for the Decatur community,
including Yoga for Cancer
Patients and Survivors, Storytime
Kids Yoga, a Saturday barre class,
and an in-house physical therapist, Lauren Sok. For more details on
these and other services contact info@solsticeatlanta.
14 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Storytime Kids’ Yoga at Solstice Urban Retreat
2nd Monday of every month 3:30-4:15 p.m.
$10/per child, ages 5-10
A 45-minute yoga class (about 30 minutes of yoga and 15 minutes of
story time) incorporating positive lessons and themes – sharing, feelings, compassion, acceptance – is led by Heidi Schaffner, an experienced school and kids yoga teacher.
Solstice Urban Retreat is at 302 E. Howard Ave. For information
call 404-274-3844.
Business & Nonprofit News
CORE Takes the Stage for Its
30th Anniversary Season
I
nnovative. Inspirational. Energizing. Thought-provoking. Risk-taking. These are just a
few of the words that have been used over the past three decades to describe CORE, the
award-winning contemporary dance organization based in Decatur and Houston (coredance.org). Now, as CORE begins its 30th anniversary season in Metro Atlanta and its
35th anniversary season in Houston, dance lovers can add “enduring” to the list of accolades.
To commemorate this milestone year, CORE is partnering with Atlanta’s High Museum
of Art to present a series of site-specific dance works inspired by two of the High’s exhibits –
Habsburg Splendor: Masterpieces from Vienna’s Imperial Collection, and Iris van Herpen:
Transforming Fashion.
CORE Performance Company will showcase new works both inside the museum and on the
grounds. The season also will include the commission of new work by guest choreographers,
Museum as Space, to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the High Museum’s building addition.
Performance Schedule
Oct. 23 • 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. • Free, with museum admission ($10)
Habsburg Splendor: Masterpieces from Vienna’s Imperial Collection
High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta
The High Museum of Art has commissioned CORE to create a new work in conjunction with
the Habsburg Splendor exhibit. Joshua Rackliffe, a member of Core Performance Company, is
the featured artist and choreographer for this world premiere.
Feb. 26 • 6:30 p.m. • Edge in Unexpected Spaces
This performance is in partnership with the Rialto Center for the Arts and Off the Edge Contemporary Dance Festival.
May 6 and 13 • 7:30 p.m. • Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion
In addition to the 30th anniversary season performances, CORE will offer its popular
Lunchtime in the Studio series throughout the year. The series invites the public to visit
CORE’s Decatur studios, 139 Sycamore St., at noon to watch the dancers at work and to learn
about the organization. Each session is free and lunch is provided to the first 40 guests.
Upcoming Lunchtime in the Studio dates:
Nov. 19 – Dance-Making as a Catalyst for Social Change
Feb. 25 – Dance the Unexpected
April 14 – CORE in the Community
In Atlanta, the organization also offers classes, workshops, summer camps, teacher training and Dynamic X-Change, a program that provides safe, creative outlets for people in need
of building self-awareness, communication skills, healthy body awareness, and movement
appreciation.
CORE’s 30th season in Atlanta is supported in part by the Pattillo Foundation, the O Fund
for New Work, Cameron and Roberts Insurance Agency, Primary Care Chiropractic, Studio
Lotus, Decatur Atlanta Printing, and Still Hot Yoga.
For more information: coredance.org.
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 15
DBA News
Slide the City
Returns, Fully
Pressurized
With the county water system working at full capacity, Slide the City returned to
Decatur on Sept. 12, beginning on North McDonough Street at Trinity Place, and
ending in front of the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center. Although the
weather was coolish, the slide was busy all afternoon. Slide the City was presented
by Decatur Business Association, to raise funds for concerts and other city events.
Oct. 27
Thank you to DBA SPONSORS
Makan
130 Clairemont Ave., Suite 100
Decatur Courtyard by Marriott
Meeting
Reminders:
5:15
6:30
Networking Reception
Meeting
Food and drinks provided by Makan
16 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Butter & Cream • DeKalb Medical • Private Bank of Decatur
Delta Community Credit Union• Fidelity Bank
Decatur Events
AADD Salons Seek
Innovative Solutions
The Wylde Center Hosts
S’mores for All –
Oct. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Aging Families
Oct. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Transition to Adulthood
125 Clairmont Rd., Suite 300
Three Free Family-Oriented Gatherings
Oct. 17 • 5-7 p.m. – Sugar Creek Garden, 415 East Lake Dr.
(behind Oakhurst Presbyterian Church)
Oct. 24 • 5-7 p.m. – Oakhurst Garden, 435 Oakview Rd.
Nov. 14 • 5-7 p.m. – Hawk Hollow, 2304 First Ave.
A
ll About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) is hosting
a series of open-dialogue salons this fall to generate new
thinking for the future. The salons are designed to bring together parents, siblings, self-advocates, providers, and other
concerned citizens in small group discussion and forward-thinking
creativity on important issues and trends affecting the quality of life
for people living with developmental disabilities.
The first salon covered the topic of housing, which is a growing
challenge for many reasons, including new Medicare definitions of approved, appropriate group housing, an aging population that requires
significant planning (individuals with developmental disabilities are
living longer and, in many cases, their parent caretakers are no longer
able to care for them) and the fact that the first generation of people
with developmental disabilities who have lived completely mainstreamed lives are now ready to live independently.
For more information visit aadd.org.
In addition to roasting marshmallows over an open fire, the events
will feature storyteller Christy Foelsch from Kids Go Wild LLC, and
anyone who would like to bring a musical instrument to play is welcome to do so. To volunteer, email [email protected]. For more
information: wyldecenter.org/smores-for-all.
Fourth Annual
Doggie Day
Friday, Oct. 30 • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Decatur First Baptist Church
308 Clairemont Ave.
The event offers an excellent opportunity
to get resources, win prizes and support
the work of disABILITY LINK. Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact
Danny Housley, 404-687-8890.
Relocating With
Your Brood?
Experience. Knowledge. Patience. Results.
Emilie Markert.
318 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30030
[email protected]
404-235-8900 C: 404.915.8222
Markert Helps
Make It Happen!
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 17
Decatur Events
Wylde Center’s Farm to School Glennwood Elementary Fall
Fall Dine Out
Carnival
Save the Date • Nov. 4 • 5-9 p.m.
The Farm to School Fall Dine
Out will include a wide variety of local favorites. Enjoy a meal at any participating restaurant and
a portion of your purchase will go toward Decatur
Farm to School. This event is a
tradition that allows the community to support the City Schools of Decatur’s efforts to teach children the importance of healthy eating. Raffle
tickets for prizes will be for sale at the restaurants. Visit wyldecenter.
org/decatur-farm-to-school/ for more information.
Sunday, Oct. 11 • 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
440 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
Enjoy the boardwalk games, craft booths, inflatable slide, the Creepy
Cafe, a haunted house, cake walk, costume contest, Angry Birds
sling shot, ghost hula hooping, photo booth, and new activities such
as creepy character drawings from art teacher Nick Madden. Funds
raised will go toward the Glennwood Elementary PTA.
For more information, contact Karen Burns at kbburns2@hotmail.
com or visit glennwood.csdecatur.net.
Experience is not
Expensive…It’s Priceless!
“34 Years of Putting Nice People in
Fine Homes”
Exceptional, Personalized Service,
Experience, Insight, Integrity
PAM HUGHES
404.851.0732 / 404.250.9900
[email protected]
www.pam.hughes.harrynorman.com
Dynamo Swim School offers yearround swimming lessons in Decatur
at Agnes Scott College
Agnes Scott College
141 E. College Ave • Decatur, GA 30030 •770.451.3272x16
Classes are ongoing - register online at dynamoswimschool.com
DynaBabies (6-36 mos) • Preschool (3-5 years)
Grade School (6-14 years) • Adult (15 years and up)
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Bring in this ad for $15 off one session of swimming lessons.
This offer may not be combined with any other off or coupon. Expires 01.01.14
www.dynamoswimschool.com
AEXURDNLM 10-Apr-2013 15:34
18 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Decatur Events
Ghostbusters at the Haints &
Saints Halloween Parade
Madison Avenue Soapbox
Derby Oct. 10
Sunday, Oct. 25 • 4 p.m.
oin the fun – wear your spookiest duds, trick out your ride,
make a stroller or wagon float,
and indulge in any other creepy
hijinks you can cook up. To celebrate
the upcoming release of the new Ghostbusters movie, we’re setting aside a
special section of the parade for tons of
Ghostbusters wearing their best ghostbusting gear! Proton packs, containment
units, anti-slime equipment, and uniforms are welcome. And of course, you
can wear any other fabulous costume of
your choice to march in the parade.
Lineup is at the post office. The parade will end on the square with a
band jam session and dance party. Plan to visit one of Decatur’s restaurants or watering holes after the parade. Many of them offer specials
for parade participants.
For more information: decaturhalloweenparade.com
To Benefit Hagar’s House
he 5th annual Madison Avenue Soapbox Derby Day, Saturday, Oct. 10, will include local vendors with food and
drinks, along with live music after the race. The competition
challenges amateur racers to design, build and race nonmotorized, gravity-powered soapbox cars. With the support of the
community and neighborhood businesses, it has grown from about 20
drivers in 2011 to almost 100 drivers in last year’s derby. Thanks to all
the support of neighbors and neighborhood businesses, the event has
donated more than $50,000 to local children’s charities.
This year, proceeds will benefit Hagar’s House, an emergency night
shelter and assessment center in Decatur offering support services
for women with children, operated by Decatur Cooperative Ministry
(DCM), a faith-based nonprofit organization supported by more than
35 congregations from 14 denominations. To learn more about DCM
and Hagar’s House, visit decaturcooperativeministry.org.
The focus of the Derby continues to be providing the children of
our community with resources to support a great childhood experience and the opportunity to succeed. For registration or additional
information, visit madisonavesoapboxderby.org.
J
T
24-hour emergency pet
care and board-certified
veterinary specialists.
All under one woof.
625 Dekalb Industrial Way, Decatur 30033
www.sfvs.com 404-924-2000
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 19
Events
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the Decatur Development Authority.
Clairemont
Elementary Holiday
Marketplace
N
ow in its 24th year, the Holiday
Marketplace will again take
place at Clairemont Elementary,
155 Erie Ave., the weekend of
Dec. 4-6. The school will transform into an
artists’ market with nearly 100 local artists
and artisans selling handmade
items, including paintings,
glass art, jewelry, pottery,
gourmet food
items, and
much more. The Café will offer
soups, desserts and live music. All proceeds
from the event support learning initiatives for
Clairemont students.
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20 | Decatur Focus • MaY
2015 2015
Giving you
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LISA CRONIC, REALTOR®
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678.641.4325
Decatur Resident for Over 20 Years
AtlantaFineHomes.com | 404.874.0300
© MMXIV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.
School News
Waldorf School
Holiday Fair
‘Life is a Highway’ Homecoming
Parade and Football Game Oct. 16
Saturday, Nov. 7 • 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
t the Waldorf School of Atlanta’s annual holiday fair, children of all ages can participate
in a range of activities, including candle dipping, jump rope making, a petting zoo, and an
obstacle course. Shopping will be available for children
in the Enchantment Shop. The fish pond will be fully
stocked with hundreds of handmade fish and waterthemed treasures.
The Pocket Lady’s cape gives children a multitude of
options for choosing special items. An artists market and
the forest shop offer gifts made from natural materials,
including handmade dolls, plant dyed yarns, wooden toys,
jewelry, knitted items, and more. Food and live music will
be available throughout the day.
On Friday, Nov. 6, 6:30-9 p.m., stop in for the adultsonly preview night for shopping in the expanded forest
shop and the artists market. Admission to the event is
free, with fees for activities. Parking is available at Columbia Presbyterian Church, 711 S. Columbia Dr. For
information: 404-377-1315, waldorfatlanta.org.
A
T
ime to break out your Decatur pride
and get excited about Decatur High
School’s Homecoming Week. The
theme this year is “Life is a Highway.”
This road trip theme gives everyone a chance
to travel down to the square Friday afternoon
on Oct. 16 to watch the parade, which includes
appearances by the Decatur High School cheerleaders, marching band and color guard, athletic team members, club representatives, and
the 2015 homecoming court.
After the parade all alumni and community
members are invited to come home to the stadium to cheer loudly for the Decatur Bulldogs
as they take on Douglas County High School at
7:30 p.m. The halftime show will feature a presentation of our DHS band’s program “Sounds of
the Silent Era” and will culminate with recognition of the homecoming court and the
crowning of this year’s homecoming king and queen.
For updated times and details check the school’s website and Facebook page. If
you have questions contact the DHS Student Government at [email protected].
TheDecaturMinute.com
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notes, and announcements,
from the City of Decatur
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• Personal Injury and Wrongful Death •
150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 260 • Downtown Decatur
404-253-7860 • [email protected] • www.carllp.com
C&A-2col-ad-focus.indd 1
5/14/14 4:47 PM
Doc Talks
Upcoming Seminars at DeKalb Medical
Empowered Birth –
Explore Your Options
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
6:30-8:00 p.m.
Dr. Bobbie Bailey Auditorium
North Decatur campus
We invite you to meet our physicians at
an open house, then talk with our panel
of nurses on what you can expect when
you have your baby at DeKalb Medical.
See the first hospital in Georgia to reach
the international “Baby-Friendly”
Hospital Initiative (BFHI) designation.
For a referral to a DeKalb Medical physician or to
reserve your space for these free seminars, please
call 404.891.1195. Light refreshments will be served.
Parking is free.
www.dekalbmedical.org
dekalbmedical
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 21
School News
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22 | Decatur Focus • OCTOBER 2015
Around Town
, Cindy Popp, and Derrick Lake are
Backwell, Ron Thomas, Harl Pike
k
Left to right: Mike Towers, Richard
rs. They worked the Decatur Boo
Assisting Public Safety) voluntee
zens
(Citi
S
CAP
e
Polic
new
six
the
owing experienced CAPS.
Festival as their first event, shad
The residents
of Ponce de Le
on Court honored long-tim
e letter carrie
r Roger Bryant
past recipien
,a
t of a Decatur
Hometown H
award, as he
ero
retired from th
e U.S. Postal Se
vice. Neighbo
rrs say he was
always smiling
and has a way
of connectin
g with people
and bringing
them closer to
gether.
Scott Garden, behind the Decatur
Recreation Center, has a new
shed, with natural light and more
efficient storage of gardening
tools and supplies. Every gardener
with a plot in Scott Garden has
access to the shed and their own
cubby in addition to the communal space.
Peter Kandet
zki, a fourth gr
ader at the 4/
Academy at Fi
5
fth Avenue, sp
ent the last ye
and a half ex
ploring the Am
ar
erican Civil W
with his family
ar
to commemor
ate the 150th
anniversary of
the conflict. Pe
ter and his
family started
their journey
at Fort Sumte
Charleston in
r in
September 20
13, and went
to visit 34 mor
on
e national pa
rks through Ap
2015, collectin
ril
g 282 Civil W
ar trading card
along the way
s
. The Kandetzk
is also visited
many museu
ms, state park
s and other ba
fields, attend
ttleed a Civil War
play right here
Decatur at th
in
e DeKalb Coun
ty Historic Co
house, and ev
urten attended
a battle reenac
ment at Resa
tca Battlefield
in Resaca, Geo
rgia.
OCTOBER 2015 • Decatur Focus | 23
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