Focus City of Decatur
CELEBRATE
JULY 4
DECATUR-STYLE SEE PAGE 5
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June 2013 Volume 23 • Number 10
Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia
Decatur Is All About Bicycles!
Decatur residents more and more are taking to two wheels to make their way around town: from students riding one of the city’s “Safe Routes” to school, to folks commuting to work, or simply spending some time in the outdoors enjoying a healthy activity and making new friends. Under the leadership of Cheryl Burnette and Greg White (left, below) and Decatur’s Active Living Department, Decatur has earned “Bicycle Friendly” status. In April and May, a number of cycling-oriented events and activities made the news in Decatur. See pages 10 and 11 to learn more. Decatur, GA
National Bike to School Day, Clairemont-style, with Cheryl Burnette and Greg White from the Active Living Department
News 3 City
DBA 13 BUsiness NEWs 16 NEWs
17 Decatur events news 21 School Town 23 Around
Focus Decatur
In Case You Were Wondering . . . Catching up on some of the high-profile Decatur projects you’ve been asking about
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evelopment interest in Decatur’s commercial districts is coming back strong. This is good news for those who recall that the 2010 strategic plan shows only 15 percent of our tax base is generated from commercial districts Focus on and 85 percent is generated from singleneighborhoods. Our commercial Downtown family districts are relatively small and much Development of the property in them, particularly in downtown Decatur, is tax exempt. As the economy begins to improve, we look forward to getting several projects back on track again.
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 www.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: linda.harris@ decaturga.com. Clear zone
DECATUR CITY COMMISSION Jim Baskett....................................................Mayor Kecia Cunningham................Mayor Pro Tem Fred Boykin.................................Commissioner Scott Drake..................................Commissioner Patti Garrett.................................Commissioner
Callaway Property After 18 months of negotiations, the City of Decatur has reached an agreement with DeKalb County to acquire the Callaway property at 120 W. Trinity Place. Plans for this five-acre site call for a mixed use development that will include residential, retail and office uses. The great news is that the redevelopment will return this large tax-exempt property to the tax rolls and contribute needed revenue to support city services and the school system. The county has a two-year, lease-back option to give it time to relocate remaining county offices from the site. For now, we are working through due diligence testing.
Trinity Triangle The Trinity Triangle project at E. Trinity Place/Candler Street and Howard Avenue is under way again. The property is owned by a Texas development group. The proposed project is very similar to one approved several years ago. It will include apartment units above retail fronting along Trinity Place. At this point, no plans have been submitted for permitting but the developers are working through finalizing designs.
Stormwater Project Current construction activity on the Trinity Triangle site is actually related to the city’s stormwater improvement project along Maple Street and through this property. The site is being used as a construction staging area for the project. The stormwater project is designed to link up storm water upgrades already completed under Fire Station No.1, the Decatur High School football field and the Decatur Housing Authority’s new construction to a large storm water see CATCHING UP page 4 Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, by fax to 404-371-1593, or by email to linda.harris@decaturga.com.
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DECATUR DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Board Sheila Hunt, Chair Fred Cavalli John Drake John Joyner Fisher Paty Chris Sciarrone Betty Spiker
DECATUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Morgan Rowe....................................... President Marc Brennan........................... President-Elect Kyle Williams......................................... Treasurer Diana Charles........................................ Secretary Wendy Watkins........................... Past President Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com
City News Sign Up for Police Vacation House Check Vacation season is here and that means many Decatur residents are going out of town. Did you know that the Decatur Police Department will check on your house while you are away? All you have to do to sign up for this service is complete the “Out of Town House Check” form in the city’s online service request system or call the police department, 404-373-6551. The online form can be found by clicking the “Submit a Service Request” button on the Decatur homepage. To aid the department in its scheduling processes, please do not enter your information any earlier than seven days prior to your departure. And if, by chance, you change your mind and do not leave town, be sure to let them know that as well!
Floodplain Information Available The Decatur Engineering Department 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 is available for a $10 fee. This service provides inquirers with flood insurance rate map information and identifies whether a property is in a special flood hazard area. An accurate street address or DeKalb County/Decatur Tax Parcel Identification number is needed to obtain this information. Call 404-377-6198 or email john.madajewski@decaturga.com.
City Hall Welcomes Visitor From Space On behalf of Mayor Baskett, City Manager Peggy Merriss accepts a photograph of the International Space Station (ISS) and a commemorative State of Georgia flag that traveled to the ISS, from NASA astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson, PhD, at Decatur City Hall.
Focus Combines July/ August Issues The July and August issues of the Decatur Focus will be combined and will be available in mid-July. The combined July/August issue will also feature the city’s annual report. Send information for both July and August by June 7 to linda.harris@decaturga.com or Linda Harris, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031 or by fax to 404-371-1593.
New Public Art in Decatur In celebration of Screen Free Week, Random House sent two authors/illustrators to help encourage kids to turn off the TV and read a book or play outside. Two-time Caldecott winner Chris Raschka and graphic artist Bob Staake painted a mural in Scott Park behind the Decatur Recreation Center. Decatur Active Living partnered with Little Shop of Stories to make this happen. Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 3
City News Hola! is open for business at Church Street and E. Ponce de Leon Avenue
Catching Up continued from page 2
detention vault currently being constructed under the Ebster soccer field. This extensive system will eliminate ongoing flooding problems that have plagued the Fire Station, Maple Street and Beacon Center for decades.
New Bicycle Racks The Decatur Development Authority recently funded the installation of six artistic bicycle racks around the city. There are two shopping bags, two bicycles, one open book design and one coffee cup scattered throughout several of our commercial districts. We plan to install more of these designs throughout the coming year and want to work with local artists to design some that are unique to Decatur.
New Business Openings Retail and restaurant activity is very healthy. Calle Latina recently opened on Church Street offering authentic Latin street food. Hola Mexican Cantina finally opened after months of delay at the corner of Ponce de Leon and Church Street. Naty’s Closet and Ariel La are two new boutiques that have opened at 335 W. Ponce de Leon. Please make plans to go by and say hello. Luci Bell is now open in the former Melrose location next to Taqueria del Sol. The new shop still offers embroidered items similar to Melrose. Mar is now open on E. Howard Street across from the Old Depot, and renovations are onging inside the Old Depot, scheduled to reopen in August as Kimball House. Rumors about Chipotle coming to Decatur are true. They have subleased space to the rear
Naty’s Closet, 335 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
of the current SunTrust Bank. It includes a patio area on the parking lot side of the building. We continue to work with the Ruby Tuesday space to find a suitable tenant. Ruby Tuesday has eight years remaining on the lease for this 5,500-square-foot space and the size is a bit of a challenge. However, there has been interest
City Budget Process Under Way Here are important dates in the budget schedule for the City of Decatur’s Fiscal Year 2013-14 budget process, subject to City Commission approval. June 3
Work session and public hearing on proposed FY 2013-14 budget and revised 2012-13 budget and 2013 millage rate, 7:30 p.m.
June 17
Public hearing and scheduled adoption of FY 2013-14 budget and revised 2012-13 budget and 2013 millage rate, 7:30 p.m.
All public hearings on the budget will be held at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough St. Copies of the FY 2013-14 proposed budget and FY 2012-13 revised budget are available at Decatur City Hall and at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore St. They are also posted at www.decaturga.com/budget. 4 | Decatur Focus • June 2013
Bike-shaped bike rack on Ponce de Leon Avenue
from some promising tenants and we hope to have it leased by the end of the summer. Remember, if you have a retail or restaurant prospect you want to see in Decatur or if you have an idea for a business you want to open, give us a call at 404-371-8386.
HOLIDAY SANITATION SCHEDULE Independence Day, July 4 Regular services for Thursday, July 4, will be on Friday, July 5.
City News Join the July 4th Celebration in Decatur
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ress up in red, white and blue and participate in Decatur’s Fourth of July Pied Piper Parade as it winds through downtown Decatur. Decorate your wagon, ride your bike, skate or walk in this community parade. The Decatur City Commission will lead the parade in the mini-fire truck. Neighborhoods and organizations are encouraged to make floats and join the fun. Parade lineup is at the First Baptist Church of Decatur at 5:30 p.m. The parade begins at 6 p.m. It ends at the Community Bandstand on the square with a presentation of the colors and the Star Spangled Banner. Anyone may participate in the parade but those with vehicles must register by calling 678-553-6573 or emailing katie.abel@ decaturga.com. The concert that evening features the Callanwolde Concert Band and begins at approximately 7 p.m. in the Community Bandstand. Fireworks begin at dark (approximately 9 p.m.) and are shot from the top of the DeKalb County parking deck. Thanks to the Decatur Business Association for its annual contribution toward the cost of the fireworks. For information visit www.decaturga.com, thedecaturminute. com, or visitdecaturgeorgia.com.
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City News Decatur Honors Excellence in Design
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he City of Decatur and the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission held the 2013 Decatur Design Awards ceremony in May. The awards honor projects that demonstrate excellence in design, historic preservation, adaptive use, and residential additions. Individuals and organizations that promote preservation are also honored with the Leila Ross Wilburn award. Every year the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission judges submissions and selects projects that are exemplary. This year 12 projects were chosen, including the renovated Fire Station No.1, the Decatur Recreation Center and two retail stores located on Decatur’s historic square. The committee that produces the Decatur Old House Fair was also honored for its contribution to educating homeowners on the preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties in Decatur and metro Atlanta.
Decatur Recreation Center 231 Sycamore St.
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121 Wilton Dr.
No. 246, 129 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
City News Structure
Designer/Architect
334 Adams St.
re:FORM/Stacie Monroe
No. 246
Smith Hanes Design
525 Clairemont Ave. Terra Cotta Properties 121 Wilton Ave.
Richard M. Stevens Architects
124 Erie Ave.
Richard M. Stevens Architects
Decatur Recreation Center LP3 Architecture 129 N. Candler St.
Renewal Design-Build
529 Avery St.
Renewal Design-Build
231 4th Ave.
Alexandra Dalton Residential Design
Plants Creative Landscapes Rutledge Alcock Architects Fire Station No. 1
231 4th Ave.
Smith Dalia Architects
Sq/Ft Earthstation Architects
529 Avery St.
334 Adams St. 129 N. Candler St.
Plants Creative Landscapes 425 E. College Ave.
Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 7
City News School News Beacon Center Project
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Breaks Ground
he Decatur City Commission and the Decatur Board of Education gathered recently to ceremonially break ground on the Beacon Municipal Complex renovation. The $38 million project is scheduled for completion by summer 2014. The renovated site will include Ebster Recreation Center and a new building for the Police Department and Municipal Court. In addition,
the new administrative offices for City Schools of Decatur will be located on the site. More than a quarter of the budget will be used on a subterranean stormwater retention project under the Ebster athletic field. Funds will also be provided for renovation of Ebster Pool and its pool house.
The City Commission, Board of Education members, city and school staff, and representatives from the design and construction teams with ceremonial shovels. Below, demolition is well underway at the site. These building “skeletons” will be reused.
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City News
Commissioners Scott Drake and Patti Garrett with Mayor Jim Baskett and City Engineer John Madajewski
Mayor Pro Tem Kecia Cunningham with Scott Richards and Kris Boyette of the Decatur Police Department
Excavation of Ebster Field to make way for an underground stormwater retention facility
Rendering of the renovated Beacon Community Center, slated for completion by the summer of 2014.
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City News Decatur on Two Wheels May was National Bike Month, and it didn’t go unnoticed in Decatur
Two Wheels (or Two Legs) to School Mayor Jim Baskett joined Oakhurst Elementary for National Bike to School Day. At right, the mayor enjoys a moment with some cheerful Oakhurst cyclists. Below right, Oakhurst Elementary Principal Mary Mack wonders whether the school needs an additional bike rack. Of the school’s 401 students, 181 participated: 131 walked and 50 rode their bicycles. The school also chose to commemorate Crossing Guard Appreciation Day at the same time. Below, Mayor Baskett marks the occasion.
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City News Bike Decatur June Mobile Social: Break out that Hawaiian Shirt
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oin Decatur Active Living and Bike Decatur for the June Mobile Social, Friday, June 7, 6:30 p.m. Meet other bicyclists at the Church Street MARTA Station for a leisurely 5-6 mile ride through Decatur. The theme for June is “Beach Wear” so come dressed in your favorite beach or Hawaiian clothing. The costume is not required, but wearing a helmet is. After the ride, the group will retire to one of Decatur’s watering holes for refreshments. Pictured above are the riders from the May Mobile Social. One of Bike Decatur’s goals is to educate and encourage community members to use bicycles as a sustainable and healthy form of transportation and recreation. The monthly ride provides an opportunity to meet other cyclists, get used to riding around Decatur and have fun. For more information contact cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com or 678-553-6541.
Glennwood Hosts Successful Active April Challenge Congratulations to Glennwood Elementary on completing its first Active April Challenge, held in conjunction with the Safe Routes to School Program. The goals were to motivate kids and parents to walk to school more often during April and to set up a time frame that would help parents and students establish good patterns. Ninety students turned in their calendar logs and met the minimum challenge level of walking or biking at least five days during April. Twenty of those students walked every day.
Kathy Keeley Named AADD Executive Director All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) has named Kathy Keeley as its new executive director. Keeley is responsible for all operations, education efforts, outreach and training programs, and advocacy efforts for the Decatur-based nonprofit, which serves people with disabilities across Georgia. She had served as interim executive director since August 2012. AADD provides support services, advocacy and training to more than 2,000 individuals and families living with developmental disabilities. The organization is dedicated to creating lifelong support, education and opportunities. For more than 16 years Keeley has provided consulting services through her company, the Keeley Group, with a focus on strategic planning, economic development, finance and performance management.
‘All About Moms’ Campaign Launches AADD has launched an “All About Moms” campaign to raise awareness and generate support for mothers across the country who have children with developmental disabilities. In many cases, mothers are the primary caregivers and make many personal sacrifices to provide for their children. The “All About Moms” campaign is designed to educate people and communities on ways they can support moms raising children with physical or intellectual disabilities who may really need a hand, but do not have the time, resources or energy to reach out on their own. The campaign will create a framework and template for community support. Beyond families and close friends, that community might include neighbors, co-workers and employers. For more information, visit www.AADD. org or call 404-881-9777. Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 11
City News
Recycle Decatur! And note these changes to what you can (and can’t) put in your bin.
Information provided by the Environmental Sustainability Board
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re you recycling more these days? Absolutely you are. In fiscal year 2012, Decatur residents recycled more than 4 million pounds of plastic, paper, glass and metal. Decatur’s recycling partner is a single-stream provider, so there’s no need to separate your recyclables. However, they have provided some clarification about a handful of items that cannot be accepted. Dry cleaning bags, newspaper wraps, Styrofoam and disposable cups (like Solo cups or those from Starbucks) cannot be recycled, and have to be treated as trash. Plastic grocery bags are also unacceptable, but you can recycle those at Publix or Kroger: both have recycling receptacles near their entrances. The City also offers twice-a-year opportunities to recycle electronics and computer equipment (more than 1 million pounds to date) and Styrofoam, too. Keep an eye on the Focus for the next events, coming up in the fall. Tips to remember: Take your reusable bags when you go shopping. Consider taking your reusable mug or cup to restaurants – many give a discount for bringing your own drinking container. Talk to your favorite local restaurant about options other than Styrofoam to-go containers (many have already made the switch to more earth-friendly containers). And finally, when around town, remember to look for a recycling container rather than a trash receptacle.
Recycle these Materials . . . Paper Products
Metal
Newspapers Magazines Junk mail and catalogs Envelopes (can include plastic windows) Chipboard – cereal boxes, shoe boxes, etc. Corrugated cardboard Pizza boxes with minimal food contamination
Soda cans Tin cans (vegetable, soup, pet food, etc.)
Glass Bottles and Containers All colors accepted No ceramics, mirrors, etc.
Plastic Bottles and Containers Must be labeled with a recycling logo and any number 1 through 7 Yellow or white plastic milk cartons Plastic soda and water bottles Plastic tubs (e.g., margarine, sour cream, etc.) Black planting trays and black plastic flower pots Bleach bottles
. . . But Don’t Recycle These Plastic grocery bags Disposable drink cups (e.g., Solo cups, Starbucks cups) Styrofoam and/or packing peanuts Plastic/wax coated paper (e.g., frozen food containers or juice cartons)
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Light bulbs Batteries Electronics Used napkins or paper towels Broken glass Items containing food waste – only minimal contamination acceptable
Bill Carpenter Receives AIA Award
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r. William J. “Bill” Carpenter FAIA has received the 2012 Bernard B. Rothschild award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Bill founded Southern Polytechnic State University’s DesignBuild Studio, which allows students to design, raise funds and construct community-based projects. His imagination and enthusiasm helped create the successful AIA Atlanta High School Design competition and he was a founding member of the National Young Architects Forum. He has served on the boards of AIA Atlanta and AIA Georgia. Currently, he serves as South Atlantic regional director and is the National Board’s liaison to the Center for Integrated Practice, the Project Delivery Knowledge Community and the Council of Emerging Professionals. In 2001, Bill achieved the status of Fellow within the AIA. The Rothschild Award is the highest honor that AIA Georgia can bestow on an individual for distinguished service to the profession of architecture in Georgia. Although there may be multiple submissions, only one Rothschild Award may be granted annually. Bill owns Lightroom Studios in Decatur, a multidisciplinary design firm, practicing interior design, landscape design, graphic design and branding along with architecture. His two daughters attend Decatur High School across the street from his studio. Visit www.lightroom.tv for more information about Lightroom.
Business & Nonprofit News Jan Selman
Arts Alliance Announces Public Art Initiative
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oug Aholt, chair of the Decatur Arts Alliance, has announced the creation of a Public Art Fund with seed money provided by the City of Decatur. The fund has been established to purchase a piece of public art for the city as part of Decatur’s 2013 Celebrate the Arts. The Arts Alliance will announce details of the initiative and plans to include the community in the selection process. Doug Aholt is pictured making the announcement at the April meeting of the Decatur Business Association. The Arts Alliance is seeking donations for the inaugural 2013 public art piece from individuals, businesses, and other interested organizations. Donations should be made to the Decatur Arts Alliance and marked Public Art Fund, and sent to the Decatur Arts Alliance, P.O. Box 401, Decatur, GA 30031.
Seen at the April DBA meeting: Decatur Arts Alliance Chair Doug Aholt, City Manager Peggy Merriss, Mayor Jim Baskett, Commissioner Patti Garrett, Jan Selman (first director of the Arts Festival), Mayor Pro Tem Kecia Cunningham, Active Living Assistant Director Cheryl Burnette, Arts Alliance Executive Director Angie Macon and Commissioner Scott Drake cut the ribbon to open DeKalb History Center’s Artrospective exhibit. Cheryl, who worked as Arts Alliance executive director for nine years, curated the show. (see page 20 for more information).
DEAM Honors Mary Reimer
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he Decatur-Area Emergency Assistance Ministry (DEAM) honored Mary Reimer for her long and tireless leadership and recognized her steadfast commitment at the annual Volunteers Appreciation luncheon. DEAM is a consortium of Decatur-area churches with an office at Holy Trinity Parish on Sycamore Place and two food pantries, one at Holy Trinity and the other at Avondale Estates First Baptist Church. Five mornings each week, DEAM helps the needy of our community with food, utility, and prescription assistance. In 2012, DEAM provided food for 6,485 adults and children; utility assistance for 777 households; and prescription help for 68 individuals. For 25 years Mary Reimer, the only paid worker, directed her allvolunteer staff as they served neighbors experiencing financial emergencies. With a firm but compassionate hand, she ran the operation on a shoestring, with 90 percent of the budget going to clients. Mary graduated from Agnes Scott College in 1946 and worked at Bell South until the first of her six children came along. While raising
her children, she was a stalwart volunteer in the community. She was recognized in 1997 as Agnes Scott’s “Outstanding Alumna for Service to the College.” For information on DEAM, visit www.DEAMdecatur.org. Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 13
Business & Nonprofit News The Wylde Center
Teaching People to Live a Sustainable Life
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ylde Center classes teach modern-day, applicable homesteading and sustainability skills, training students on how to live wholesomely in an urban environment. Class topics reintroduce life skills from “the good ol’ days” while also including trendy, popular sustainability topics – bridging the old and the new seamlessly. Create vegan butter, cream, and milk in different sweet and savory flavors and learn why reducing dairy intake may be a smart health move. On June 8 Minde Herbert of affordablyorganic.com busts the “not-on-my-budget” myth by sharing her experiences as a savvy-shopping, creative-cooking parent. On June 22 hear about how canning and freezing are great ways to preserve the food you grow or purchase from local farmers. The Wylde Center, 435 Oakview Rd., also hosts a variety of other classes and topics including using herbs to heal, making your own dog treats, raising chickens and quails, creating pottery, growing edible gardens, grafting fruit trees, and crafting vegan cold and hot process soap, and more. Classes are offered on weekdays and weekends and class sizes are small, cultivating a sense of community and creating a one-onone learning environment where the instructor becomes an accessible resource. The Wylde Center has a strong emphasis on children’s classes including several summer day camps. In the Urban Farm Camp, activities include learning about the secret life of bees and chickens, making fresh cheese from local milk, and crafting candles from beeswax. The mission of the Wylde Center is to build up the community and the individual through organized programs, classes, and events that develop creative skills in sustainable urban living, organic gardening, health, and nutrition. For information visit www.wyldecenter.org.
Sidewalk
Talk
m News fro ’s r u t Deca t storefron d n a s p sho ts n a r u a rest
Maxim Barbers Celebrates First Anniversary Maxim Barbers celebrates its first full year in business on Saturday, June 8. At 11 a.m. Michael Cobb, aka “Dr. Mike” – a Decatur native and senior member of the “Straight Razor Place” Internet forum – will discuss the benefits of using straight and safety razors. Mike loves to share his knowledge of this old-school style. The event also includes a drawing for a shaving kit, discounts from Got Cigars, and refreshments. Stop by, say hello, and be a part of this special day.
Worthmore Celebrates Five Years Worthmore Jewelers celebrated five years in Decatur during the 25th annual Decatur Arts Festival with a cookout, an art exhibit from Ethan Ferguson that featured reclaimed, repurposed, revived, and reconstructed sculptures reborn from classic car parts, and an artist meet and greet. Worthmore specializes in fine jewelry – including wedding and engagement rings, watches, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, silver, and custom work. The store also has ever-rotating art exhibits featuring diverse sets of eclectic artwork. Visit WorthmoreJewelers.com, on Facebook, or call 404-370-3979.
Decatur School of Ballet and Active Living Announce Partnership Decatur School of Ballet and Decatur Recreation Center’s Active Living have formed a partnership to offer “Adult Ballroom for Social Occasions.” Classes will be held on Mondays, 7-8 p.m., in Studio C of the newly renovated Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St. No previous dance experience is necessary. A partner is recommended but not required. “Introduction to Swing” is the first eight-week session (June 10-July 29). Future sessions will include Salsa, Foxtrot, Rumba and Waltz. Cost for the session is $120 per single or $220 per couple. To reserve your space, call the office of Decatur School of Ballet, 404378-3388 or email admin@decaturballet.com.
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Business & Nonprofit News Morse Family Receives Award Recognizing Generosity
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n April, the Wylde Center presented the Sally Wylde Cultivating Life award to the Morse family as part of the annual Earth Day celebration. The award is presented to “those who demonstrate qualities held dear and embodied by Sally Wylde, environmentalist, activist and educator.”
In 2002 Dr. and Mrs. Chester Morse donated their seven-acre home site to the citizens of Decatur to become a permanently protected greenspace, now known as Woodlands Garden. The mission: to preserve this greenspace as an urban sanctuary for educating and engaging the community in the natural world. Now that Dr. and Mrs. Morse are deceased, succeeding generations continue to support this mission: daughters Anne Morse Topple, Genia Morse Duchon, and Mary Ellen Morse Pendergrast, son Dr. Harry Morse, their spouses, and many grandchildren. This generosity led the Wylde Center and the City of Decatur to name the entire Morse family for the Wylde award. Woodlands Garden is at 920 Scott Blvd. Visit www.woodlandsgarden.org for information.
Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 15
DBA News June 25 Meeting REMINDER
Oakhurst Community Garden Oakview Rd. at S. McDonough St. 5:15 p.m. Networking reception 6 p.m. Program Sponsor: The Wylde Center Program features Decatur nonprofit organizations, plus the city’s annual Thomas O. Davis Public Servant Award Learn more: www.decaturdba.com
Thanks to these sponsors for their ongoing support
Friday, June 14 • 5-11 p.m. Celebrate summer at the Decatur Beach Party. Dig your toes into 60 tons of sand on the Ponce de Leon Beach while the kids enjoy the boardwalk games. Hear live music and dance the night away to Jimmy Buffet tribute band A1A. The Decatur Beach Party is produced by the Decatur Business Association. Proceeds benefit other free events such as the Concerts on the Square, Easter Egg Hunt, Bonfire/ Marshmallow Roast, and the July 4th fireworks. They also go toward other projects that benefit the community. No outside food, beverages or coolers are allowed in the beach party area. Visit www.decaturdba.com for more information or call 678-553-6573.
The Decatur Beach Party is Sponsored by:
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Remember, when the Beach Party ends at 11 p.m. everyone is welcome to load up the sand and take it home for a sandbox, garden or playground. It is free! Just bring your vehicle and load up the sand any time after 11 p.m. or during the rest of the weekend.
Decatur Events Caroline Herring Celebrates New Children’s Album In Poverty is Real Concert Series
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titled “Shelter from the Storm.” All proceeds from the weekend will be directed to the Decatur Cooperative Ministry (DCM), a local organization that works to prevent and alleviate homelessness in Decatur and DeKalb County. The concert series is presented by Lenz, a Decatur-based advertising agency. Sponsors include Lenz, the Barnes Law Group, First Bank of Decatur, the Decatur Downtown Development Authority, First Baptist Church of Decatur, Decatur Presbyterian Church, Pure Station, Oak Grove Market, Be a Bride, Jim Johnson/ Allstate Insurance, Charles and Katherine Pursley, Brick Store Pub, Leon’s Full Service, Little Shop of Stories, Worthmore Jewelers, Parker’s on Ponce, the Decatur Book Festival, Terrapin Beer, Paste Magazine, the City of Decatur, and the Decatur Business Association.
DECATUR CHRISTIAN TOWERS
inger-songwriter Caroline Herring (pictured) will release a new album of music inspired by one of her favorite children’s stories as part of the June 14-16 Poverty is Real (PIR) concert series at Eddie’s Attic, 515 N. McDonough St. The shows will be held Saturday, June 15, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and will feature songs from the new album, “Roxaboxen Songs,” as well as selections from the forthcoming children’s album, “A Book is To Sing.” Advance tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children, and are available at www.EddiesAttic.com. The performances are hosted by Little Shop of Stories and will feature playing, singing, reading, and interactive storytelling. “Roxaboxen Songs” will be available for purchase. The weekend concert series will also feature a Saturday evening performance by Nashville’s Bobby Bare Jr. and a Sunday night tribute to Bob Dylan,
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1409 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta GA 30309 • leslie.erickson@prudentialga.com
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Decatur Events Returns June 20 The Big Pop Up! – a one-night-only celebration and sale of local arts and crafts, live music, food, and craft beer – returns to East Decatur Station, E. College Avenue at New Street, on June 20, 6-9 p.m. Co-sponsored by the Decatur Arts Alliance and East Decatur Station, this is an all-ages, free event with ample parking, located just one block from the Avondale MARTA Station. Browse and buy from a broad selection of arts, crafts and jewelry by local artists and artisans. Listen to acoustic music in the courtyard, then venture down to New Street Studio for some live jazz. Foodies will enjoy the tastes of Duck’s Cosmic Kitchen, the Corner Pub and the Mobile Marlay Food Truck, and beer lovers can try Decatur’s two newest craft breweries – Three Taverns and Blue Tarp. The inaugural event exceeded expectations with hundreds of visitors, and this year’s event promises to be even better, with more artists, more food, more music, and two excellent craft breweries that now call East Decatur Station home. For a complete and up-to-date listing of details and participants, visit facebook.com/PopUpDecatur.
13th annual BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival Set for August 17 The sights, sounds, and smells of the Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival will fill Harmony Park in Oakhurst Saturday, Aug. 17, 4 p.m.-10 p.m. This year’s event features live musical acts, beer and first-class barbecue from Fox Brothers and Black Tie. The musical lineup includes Beverly “Guitar” Watkins and Larkin Poe along with others to be announced. Family fun includes a kids area with train rides, face painting and arts and crafts. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the gate. All proceeds go to support the Decatur community through local grants and community-based programming throughout the year. The BBQ Blues and Bluegrass Festival is sponsored by the Community Center of South Decatur, the Oakhurst Neighborhood Association, and Decatur Active Living. For more information about the festival, visit www.decaturbbqfestival.com.
Beer Garden: Summer Kick-Off in the Garden Saturday, June 22, 5:30-8 p.m. • VIP Happy Hour • 4:30 p.m. Enjoy the beauty of the Oakhurst Community Garden and celebrate the work of the Wylde Center while enjoying local brews, local food and local music. General admission tickets are $30/$40 and include seasonal sliders from Farm Burger and Farm 255, as well as beers from Ale Yeah!, Red Brick Brewing, Three Taverns Brewery, Twain’s, Wild Heaven Craft Beers and more in the Wylde Center pint glass. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $50 for the pre-party happy hour, which includes a private garden tour, featured cocktails by Paul Calvert of Paper Plane, appetizers by Cakes & Ale and charcuterie by Pine Street Market, as well as the main event. The event also features music by The Grits, a Silent Auction, and a Live Auction with items such as a full season’s share from Riverview Farms, a long weekend at a Toccoa mountain house, sausage making class from Pine Street Market, a four-night beach getaway in Seagrove, Florida, dinner for six at Cakes & Ale, a year’s supply of local fresh eggs, and more. The event is 21+ only and is sponsored by Beth Mahany, InBloom and Russell and Herrera, P.C. Tickets available online at www. wyldecenter.org.
thru June 15
All Around Decatur • 3-6 p.m. decaturartsalliance.org 18 | Decatur Focus • June 2013
Decatur Events Lutheran Church of the Messiah Hosts Cookout
Experience is not Expensive…It’s Priceless!
Sunday, June 16 • 12:30 p.m. The Lutheran Church of the Messiah will host “Man Up for Girls!” a community cookout and benefit for Days for Girls International and DFG Georgia. The event includes a cookout on the front lawn and lunch in Fellowship Hall, 465 Clairemont Rd. Dads eat free. A puppeteer will present a special performance and there will be face painting for children. The Chien Hong School of Kung Fu will lead a free self-defense class for youth (and adults, too) at 1 p.m. The community is invited to celebrate Father’s Day and daughters around the globe. The drop-in event is free. Food and drinks will be served for $5/plate or $1 for drinks only. Additional financial contributions will be accepted and appreciated. For more information contact Melissa Moody, 404-373-1682, Atlanta@daysforgirls.org or www.daysforgirls.org.
DeKalb History Center
Log Cabin Storytelling at the Biffle Cabin
June 12 • Gotcha! Trickster Tales, with Cathy Kaemmerlen June 19 • Tales of the Gullah, with LaDoris Davis
PAM HUGHES 404.851.0732 / 404.250.9900 pam.hughes@harrynorman.com www.pam.hughes.harrynorman.com
3 Chip Wallace | Keller Knapp Realty Your neighbor. Your intown realtor.
Whether you are buying or selling — or simply exploring your options — call me to be sure you are positioned for success in today’s changing market.
10 a.m. Wednesdays in June and July June 5 • Fun with Brer Rabbit and Friends, with Josie Bailey
“33 Years of Putting Nice People in Fine Homes” Exceptional, Personalized Service, Experience, Insight, Integrity
• Top 1% producer, Atlanta Board of Realtors (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012) • No. 2 individual realtor in Metro Atlanta for 2012 ($22.5 million in sales) • 86 homes sold in the City of Decatur since 2009 ($34.5 million) chip@kellerknapp.com • 171 homes sold overall since 2009 ($67 million) 678.429.9731
ChipWallaceRealEstate.com
June 26 • Georgia Tales and Tails from Possums to Gourds, with Cathy Kaemmerlen July 10 • The Tapestry Cats, with Ann Ritter July 17 • Take Me Out to the Ballgame! with Deborah Strahorn July 24 • Appalachian Folktales, with LaDoris Davis July 31 • Fiddlin’ Dan the Mountain Man, with Reuben Haller
The Biffle Cabin is at 720 W. Trinity Place. Cost is $4 for DHC members and $6 for non-members. For registration or questions email forgey@dekalbhistory.org or call 404-373-1088 ext. 22. Visit www.dekalbhistorycenter. org for more information about each session.
To visit our community and to learn more about becoming a resident please contact us:
Come Home to the Best in Senior Living
At Clairmont Oaks everyday living is just the way you want it—comfortable and convenient. You’ll be delighted at the outstanding amenities and welcoming atmosphere in our senior apartment communities. Our Mission: Clairmont Oaks provide quality affordable housing and services to older adults. We welcome people of all faiths and beliefs.
Clairmont Oaks 441 Clairemont Ave. Decatur, Georgia 30030-1855 Phone 404.378.8887 Facsimile 404.378.8969 www.clairmontoaks.org
A Ministry of First Baptist Church Decatur
Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/clairmontoaks
beactivedecatur.com Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 19
Decatur Events
Take a Look at 25 Years of the Arts Festival (and the Square) Artrospective: 25 Years of the Decatur Arts Festival opened in the DeKalb History Center in April and will be available for viewing through September. The exhibit includes press clippings, T-shirts, artwork, and printed material from the festival’s earliest days, when it fit neatly in one tiny corner of the old courthouse lawn. It provides an interesting look into Decatur’s recent past. Residents new to the city will be amused by the festival’s humble beginnings, and images of the square before the bandstand was built, and before the square was re-invigorated as a center of commerce and community. Pictured top left are three Arts Festival directors, Cheryl Burnnette (2000-2009) Angie Macon (2010 to present) and Jan Selman, from the festival’s earliest years.
Giving you the time and attention you deserve LISA CRONIC, REALTOR ® lisacronic@atlantafinehomes.com 678.641.4328 Decatur Resident for Over 20 Years
© MMXII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.
20 | Decatur Focus • June 2013
Salisa Bacon Business Consultant Salisa@ConsolidatedCopiers.com
315 W. Ponce de Leon Suite 325 Decatur, GA, 30030 404. 377. 3262
School News Seen Around ols the Scho Kindergarten Classes Dedicate Little Free Library at Glenlake Park Clairemont kindergarten classes completed the service project component of their Kinder Loving Care expedition by donating a Little Free Library to Glenlake Park. The students learned about animals found in Glenlake Park, including turtles, rabbits, butterflies, and crayfish (pictured at right). Each student wrote and illustrated a nonfiction, informational text that they placed in the Little Free Library (pictured) to be shared with the Decatur community.
Renfroe Students Salute Late Teacher Stacey Daniel Renfroe Middle School students raised nearly $1,800 for a fund in memory of teacher Stacey Daniel, who died unexpectedly last fall. Renfroe students India Sayers, Kate Immergluck, Kate Fowler, Ainslie Bayer and Eric Broner are pictured with Principal Derrick Thomas and Decatur Education Foundation Volunteer Coordinator Nia Schooler presenting the check at Renfroe’s Poetry Slam. The Stacey Daniel Memorial Fund at the DEF was established to continue her legacy of student expression through writing and poetry. If you wish to add your gift to the Stacey Daniel Fund, make a donation online at DecaturEducationFoundation.org or mail a check to DEF, 200 Nelson Ferry Rd., Suite B, Decatur, GA 30030.
DEF Provides iPad Minis Special education teachers Dana Gravley, Phillip Breaux and Jana Johnson-Davis display the iPad minis they received through a special grant from the Decatur Education Foundation. The grant was made possible by a major gift from an anonymous donor last fall. Funds from the gift are targeted for technology, family support, training and equipment. Every special education teacher and therapist in City Schools of Decatur received an iPad mini to help them in their work with students. Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 21
School News Waldorf School Wins Accreditation
T Holy Trinity Parish Preschool Offers Summer Camps
H
oly Trinity Summer Camps are filled with action, art, and adventure. Camps for ages 2-7 feature a different theme each session. Camps for older children are sponsored through Cartwheels and Big Thinkers. Creative Adventures themes and dates are: July 15-19 • Let’s Go to the Beach July 22-26 • Creepy Crawlies July 29-Aug. 2 • Carnival Fun Aug. 5-9 • Summer Science Aug. 12-16 • Animal Kingdom For more information visit www.holytrinitypreschool.org/wordpress/wp-content/downloads/Brochure2013.pdf. For information about camps for older children visit www.bigthinkers.com or www. cartwheelconsulting.com.
he Waldorf School of Atlanta again has won the triple crown of school accreditation. WSA hosted a joint team representing the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA), Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and AdvancED to review the school’s self-study, standards compliance and adherence to its mission. To earn reaccreditation, WSA complied with quality standards, was evaluated by an outside group of peer professionals, and implemented a school plan focused on strategic improvement and student performance in accordance with the school’s mission, which is to develop in its students the will to become life-long learners by fostering in each student the ability to think with clarity, feel with compassion and act with purpose in the world. Accreditation serves as a critical component of a school’s demonstrated effectiveness and ability to provide successful schooling for children. A school that is able to achieve accreditation demonstrates a commitment to a process that requires the school to meet a set of rigorous standards, to engage in a program of continuous school improvement, and to demonstrate quality assurance to its stakeholders through self evaluation and peer review. Visit www.waldorfatlanta.org for more information.
Calling Student Entrepreneurs
T
he Decatur Education Foundation encourages enterprising students with a promising business or project to launch to consider applying for a microloan through the Decatur Innovation for Youth program. The program gives students an opportunity to learn what it takes to bring an idea to life and how to put a business plan in place that includes goals, timelines and budgets. Student entrepreneurs can apply for a microloan between $50 and $300, and each recipient is paired with an adult mentor. Loans must be paid back, interest-free, within a year; in some circumstances, they may be paid off through service work. Download an application at DecaturEducationFoundation.org (see article in the “Our Work” section) or call 404-377-0641.
Need to Find Another Nest?
Bill W. Markert, CLU® Financial Professional The Southern Financial Group, Agency Distribution The Prudential Insurance Company of America 3343 Peachtree Road, NE, East Tower, Suite 700, Atlanta GA 30326 Tel 404-461-4998 Fax 877-840-2369 Cell 404-403-6174 bill.markert@prudential.com 0232573-00001-00
22 | Decatur Focus • June 2013
Experience. Knowledge. Patience. Results. Emilie Markert. 318 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30030 404-235-8900 C: 404.915.8222 markert@bellsouth.net
Markert Helps Make It Happen!
Around Town Around Town
Congratulations to the Decatur Hydration Station and chair Michael Harbin for winning the Publix Marathon Hydration Station Challenge. The station was chosen by the votes of the participants and received $1,000 to be given to a local nonprofit engaged in promoting physical activity. Five hundred dollars went to the Decatur Bulldog Boosters, who support the sports programs at Decatur High and Renfroe Middle School, and $500 went to the Mary Miller Decatur Youth Fund, which provides scholarships to help children and youth participate in City of Decatur after-school programs, summer school, summer camps and other enrichment opportunities.
SEEN AROUND TOWN Thanks to retired architect and Decatur resident Hans Prauzer for sending in a series of photographs he calls “Spring.” The one at left is a detail of the top of the “Celebration” sculpture on the MARTA plaza. Check out the rest of his images, and plenty more from other photographers, on our Pinterest boards.
The Decatur Visitors Center (above) received a Gold award from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) as part of the 2013 Design Excellence awards. Rabaut Design Associates received recognition in the Singular Space: Part of a Larger Project category. Reverend Tom Hagood, pastor of Columbia Presbyterian Church, 711 Columbia Dr., invites the community to worship services on Sundays and Tuesdays. Sunday School begins at 9:45 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of the month. On Tuesdays, the church offers a special music and prayer service, “TAIZE,” at 7 p.m. To see a YouTube video featuring Columbia Presbyterian Church as Samaritan to local refugees, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=elj-r5WTC5M. For information, call 404-284-2441, email columbiapresbyterian@gmail.com or visit www.cpcdecatur.org.
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Fine jewelry, watches and aRt...
Amsterdam Walk + 500-L3 Amsterdam Ave. + Atlanta + 404/892-8294 Decatur Square + 117 East Court Square + Decatur + 404/370-3979 www.worthmorejewelers.com (Ask us about trading in your old gold jewelry. It's a great way to buy a great gift, update your jewelry collection–or just increase the contents of your wallet!)
Decatur Focus • June 2013 | 23
pre-sorted standard u.s. postage PAID Permit No. 199 Decatur, GA 30031
DATED MATERIAL JUNE 2013
Printed on Recycled Paper
P.O. Box 220 Decatur, GA 30031-220
Focus
Clear zone
Decatur
Doc Talks
As seen on “Flip This House” and “Curb Appeal”
Upcoming Seminars at DeKalb Medical
Joint Revision Options for You Tuesday, June 11, 6–7 p.m. DeKalb Medical Theatre North Decatur campus Join Maurice Jove, M.D., a DeKalb Medical orthopedic surgeon, as he talks about joint revision surgery. People wishing to take a tour of the Joint Solutions Center should meet in the theatre at 5 p.m.
Garden Design Installation Maintenance Stonework Seasonal Cleanups
Julie, Dual Knee Replacement
For a referral to a DeKalb Medical physician or to reserve your space for these free seminars, please call 404.501.TALK. Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. www.dekalbmedical.org
dekalbmedicalorthopedics
Pam Dooley, Owner Licensed & Insured
404.309.7175 info@plantsllc.com
www.plantscreativelandscapes.com