Focus June 2017 web

Focus City of Decatur

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JUNE 2017 Volume 27 • Number 10

Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia

Greetings

to guests from around the globe Welcoming America, whose home base is in Decatur, held its annual Welcoming Interactive in April, which included a welcoming reception on the square. This event welcomed guests visiting from all over the world and featured performances by Apu Inka, Uhuru Dancers, and MBOND Afrika.

Welcoming America inspires people to build a different kind of community – one that embraces immigrants and fosters opportunity for all. more photos on page 13 News 3 City

11 BUsiness NEWs

16 DBA NEWs

DECATUR 18 EVENTs

School news 20

Focus City of Decatur

Let’s Celebrate Decatur – for Reasons Large and Small

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he National League of Cities is celebrating small cities throughout the month of June. As part of the celebration, the NLC asked for submissions and photographs describing what makes residents proud of their own small city.

That got us thinking. What would our citizens suggest be included on this list? Is it our public art, our school system, the lantern parade, the Better Together dialog or the respectful way our residents generally treat each other even when they disagree? Is it the large number of students who take advantage of our Safe Routes to School Program to walk and roll to school, the success of resident-led events like Porchfest, or is it the recent action by our City Commission to purchase the 77-acre United Methodist Children’s Home? There are so many things big and small about which we can be proud. What comes to your mind? We would love to hear from you at info@decaturga.com.

Focus on Community Development

Hampton Inn to Begin Construction Downtown Decatur is getting another hotel. Anyone who has tried to book a room recently at the Decatur Marriott Courtyard knows how frequently it is full. Decatur’s proximity to downtown Atlanta, Emory and CDC, easy access to the Atlanta airport on MARTA and the ability to walk to a number of local retail and restaurant options continue to attract a growing number of visitors to our city.

The new 132-room Hampton Inn and Suites will allow Decatur to host more medium-size conferences at the city-owned conference center. The conference center has enough meeting space but there aren’t enough available hotel rooms to allow it to be used to its full capacity.

Building permits for the new hotel have been approved and construction should begin this month.

City arborist Kay Evanovich worked closely with the hotel owner to arrange to have 17 trees relocated from the hotel site to Glenlake Park. Next time you visit the park, look for the new grove of trees located in the upper area of the park near the soccer field.

Callaway Project Moves Along Construction at the Callaway site along W. Trinity Place is moving quickly. Major grading, utility installation and site work are underway. The parking deck that will serve the development will be located in the center of the site and will be the first building out of the ground. The developer is required to pay for all streetscape improvements and a new street is being added at the rear of the site to provide additional access to the parking deck.

Private developers are required to cover the cost of streetscape improvements that meet the city’s streetscape master plan. These private investments allow the city to expand the streetscape and bicycle network and connect to city-funded streetscape improvements along N. McDonough Street and E. Trinity Place as well as the streetscape improvements provided by the ARLO project.

See DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT on page 10 Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, or by email to decaturfocus@decaturga.com.

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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: decaturfocus@decaturga.com.

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DECATUR CITY COMMISSION Patti Garrett...................................................Mayor Fred Boykin................................Mayor Pro Tem Scott Drake..................................Commissioner Tony Powers...............................Commissioner Brian Smith..................................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 Kyle Williams......................................... President Susan Sparks.............................. President-Elect Reshell Baldini...................................... Treasurer Lisa Bobb................................................. Secretary Tim Martin.................................... Past President

Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com

City News Focus Combines July/August Issues The July and August issues of the Decatur Focus are combined and will be available mid-July. The combined issue also features the city’s annual report. Send information for this issue by June 10 to decaturfocus@decaturga.com (as a word document or in the body of the email only; please no PDFs) or to ATTN: Decatur Focus, PO Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031.

Floodplain Information Decatur’s Design, Environment and Construction Division provides general floodplain information on properties 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 hazard area. An accurate street address or DeKalb County/Decatur Tax Parcel Identification number is needed to obtain this information. Call 678553-6529 or email jennings.bell@ decaturga.com.

4th of July Celebration

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oin the Pied Piper Parade as it makes its way through downtown Decatur on Tuesday, July 4. Gather friends and family, ride your bike, walk or skate in this community parade for anyone and everyone. Neighborhoods and organizations are encouraged to make floats and join the fun too. And don’t forget your red, white, and blue!

Parade lineup is at 5:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Decatur, 308 Clairemont Ave. Pedestrians will gather on the lawn and vehicles will be lined up by volunteers in the parking lot.

The parade begins at 6 p.m. The concert on the square starts at 7 p.m. in the Community Bandstand, featuring the Callanwolde Concert Band. Fireworks begin at dark (approximately 9 p.m.).

Anyone may participate in the parade, but those with vehicles must register by calling 678-553-6573 or emailing Shirley.baylis@decaturga.com.

Thanks to the Decatur Business Association for their contribution for the fireworks display.

Willie Walker

Holiday Solid Waste and Recycling Services Independence Day Tuesday, July 4 Regular services for Monday, July 3, and Tuesday, July 4, will be on Wednesday, July 5.

JUNE 2017 • Decatur Focus | 3

City News

Decatur Dedicates MARTA Overpass Mural KaBOOM! Playscape Opens Under the Bridge

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ecatur recently dedicated a new mural painted on both sides of the MARTA overpass at W. Trinity Place and Atlanta Avenue.

The mural provides a dynamic west gateway into the city. The KaBOOM! Playscape under the bridge adds elements from the mural to benches, a giant wind chime, hopscotch and twister games and gives the community a creative, artful resting place when walking or waiting to catch the school bus.

The mural was created and painted by artists Felici Asteinza and Joey Fillastre of the Milagros Collective after an extensive community engagement process centered on “Making History in our Region,” which included input from the surrounding community.

The blue circles across the top of the mural represent the momentum and movement that surround the area and the green spaces are filled with the outlines of various flora and fauna found in the region, representing the connection to greenspace that is important to the community.

The mural was funded by a grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and with financial and in-kind support from the steering committee partners: the Decatur Arts Alliance, the City of Decatur, the Decatur Downtown Development Authority, the Decatur Housing Authority, City Schools of Decatur, MARTA, the Decatur Tourism Bureau, Task Force for Global Health, and the Swanton Hill Neighbors.

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City News Under the Bridge Art Party and Dedication

Volunteers Needed to Plan Community Event

Decatur Active Living recently secured for the city a KaBOOM! Playscape grant to enliven the concrete area under the bridge and make it into a delightful gathering place for children to wait for the school bus and for walkers and bikers to stop and rest. Milagros Collective designed, created and painted the playscape components to mirror the mural design and make the area a unique and fun place to stop.

An Under the Bridge Art Party and dedication was held recently but had to re-locate inside Ebster Recreation Center because of rain. The community came out to enjoy a hands-on art project, bouncy house, music, cookies, lemonade and popsicles.

Representatives from ARC, MARTA, Decatur Housing Authority, Decatur Arts Alliance, Decatur Tourism Bureau, and Swanton Hill Neighbors joined Mayor Patti Garrett and Commissioner Tony Powers for the special dedication. They are pictured at left on the steps outside Ebster Recreation Center with the MARTA mural in the background.

re you an event planner, decorator, facilitator, or do you just enjoy being around people and involved in the community?

Then this is an opportunity for you. The Better Together Advisory Board, local photographer Beate Sass, and the Decatur Education Foundation are seeking volunteers to assist in planning a communitywide event, “I Am Decatur: Building Community through Conversations.”

This is a joint effort to kick off two ongoing community events: Community Conversations and the I Am Decatur photo project. If interested, contact Renae Madison at renae.madison@ decaturga.com.

Save the date – Sunday, Sept. 24 – and look for more details on the event in the July/August Focus.

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FY 2017-18 Budget Schedule Here are important dates in the budget schedule for the City of Decatur’s fiscal year 2017-2018 budget process, subject to City Commission approval. The public hearings will be held at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough St.

June 5 Public hearing on Proposed FY 2017-18 7:30 p.m. Budget and Revised 2016-17 Budget and 2017 Millage Rate.

June 12 6 p.m.

Public hearing on 2017 Millage Rate (if necessary).

June 19 Public hearing and scheduled adoption of 7:30 p.m. Proposed FY 2017-18 Budget and Revised 2016-17 Budget and adoption of final 2017 Millage Rate.

Copies of the FY 2017-18 Proposed Budget and FY 2016-17 Revised Budget are available at Decatur City Hall and at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore St. The budget is also available at decaturga.com/budget. Following a formal presentation of the budget to the Decatur City Commission, the city will publish a legal advertisement with more detailed information about the budget amounts and again identify the public hearing dates.

If you have questions or need additional information, contact Meredith Roark, Budget and Performance Measurement manager, 404-370-4102, or meredith.roark@decaturga.com. Check decaturga.com/budget for updates to the schedule and the online budget.

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City News Decatur Neighborhood Alliance Meeting Wed., June 21 • 6:30 p.m.

Decatur Police Department • Beacon Municipal Center, 420 W. Trinity Place

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epresentatives from Decatur neighborhood associations, block associations, condominiums, townhomes, homeowner associations, apartment complexes and those interested in starting a neighborhood group are invited to attend the June Decatur Neighborhood Alliance meeting. The meeting is hosted by the Lifelong Community Advisory Board’s Decatur Neighbors committee.

In response to requests from attendees of the March meeting, this meeting will focus on the Decatur Police Department. Information will be presented on community policing, block parties, and other police department programs and initiatives. There will also be time for networking and small group discussions with other neighborhood representatives.

To confirm your neighborhood’s attendance at the meeting and provide any updates to your neighborhood association’s listing that is currently posted on the Neighborhood Alliance page, contact Lee Ann Harvey, leeann.harvey@decaturga.com, or call 678-553-6548.

Also share your ideas for future meeting topics.

To see a current neighborhood list, visit decaturga.com/neighborhoodalliance.

Neighborhood leaders in a discussion group at the March meeting.

June Decatur Walking Superstar Vivian Lowery is this month’s Decatur Walking Superstar. Vivian walks everywhere, and all of the time. She does not have a car, but that doesn’t stop her from getting anywhere she wants to go. She can be seen walking all over Decatur, in the heat of summer and the cold of winter, and always looks stylish while doing it.

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Tricycle Class for Active Adults During the month of June, active adults are invited to try out the Silver Spokes Tricycle Class. The class is held at the Beacon Municipal Complex, 105 Electric Ave., Thursday mornings beginning at 10 a.m. The cost is $5. The class is instructed by certified cycling instructors Patti Baker and Nik Volliner.

For more information, contact Sara Holmes, Adult Program supervisor, 404377-0494 or sara.holmes@decaturga.com.

City News Decatur Awards Outstanding Projects for 2017

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n May 24, the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission held the 2017 Decatur Design Awards at city hall. The event recognizes outstanding projects in Decatur in the categories of historic preservation, additions, commercial construction, residential construction, sustainability and energy efficiency, landscape, and public/institutional buildings, as well as individuals or firms dedicated to furthering the city’s preservation goals. The award ceremony is held in May to honor National Preservation Month and the City of Decatur and the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission would like to express their appreciation for the quality of these projects in the city.

This year’s winners included:

418 Coventry Rd.

Project

Award Category

Harriette Fulton and Family Leila Ross Wilburn Award 333 Adams Street New Residential Construction and Sustainable Design & Energy Efficiency 316 Church Street – Historic Commercial Rehabilitation Brush Sushi Izakaya 1004 Clairemont Avenue

Additions

418 Coventry Road

Additions

204 Huron Street

Additions

332 Melrose Avenue

Additions

204 Huron St.

333 Adams St.

332 Melrose Ave. Brush Sushi Izakaya

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City News Decatur Youth Council Seeks Members

Members of the Decatur Youth Council met with officers for rapidfire interviews for a video project.

Decatur is seeking high school-age students to participate in the 2017-2018 Decatur Youth Council (DYC), a membership of 15 students who are interested in local government and in making a difference in their community. DYC is open to students who attend

Decatur Police Officers Receive ‘Officer of the Year’ Awards Congratulations to Master Police Officer C.J. Gresham (left) and Officer Anthony Robinson (center), who both received 2017 Officer of the Year awards from the DeKalb Bar Association. They are pictured here with Police Chief Mike Booker.

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high school within the city limits or live in the city and attend high school outside the city limits.

Members will create projects and activities for local youth, learn about the various departments within city government, and participate in

the city’s planning and decision-making process. Applications for the 2017-2018 DYC will be available online at decaturga. com/dyc and are due by Monday, Aug. 28.

If you are interested in making a difference on teen-related issues in Decatur, consider applying today.

City News Opening Day Youth Baseball and Parade

Saturday, June 3 11 a.m.

McKoy Park

The community is invited to youth baseball opening day in Decatur. The parade begins at 11 a.m., starting at McKoy Park and concluding at Oakhurst Park. If you would like to participate in the opening day activities as a driver, cook, volunteer or parade watcher contact Stacy Green, 678-553-6549.

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City News June Is National Safety Month Smart911 celebrates National Safety Month in June, an annual event that aims to reduce the leading causes of injury and death at work, on the roads and in our homes and communities.

Each week in June will be dedicated to a different safety topic: Week 1: Stand Ready to Respond Week 2: Be Healthy Week 3: Watch Out for Dangers Week 4: Share Roads Safely Be prepared – sign up for Smart911 today at smart911.com.

Outdoor Tornado Warning Sirens and Safety

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ecatur’s outdoor siren system alerts residents and visitors who are outside that a tornado may be imminent. The system was not designed to be heard within a home or building, although if you live or work nearby, you will likely hear the siren while indoors. The city sounds the alarm when the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a tornado warning for the Decatur area or when a tornado is spotted by a member of the public safety staff. The sirens will sound for three to five minutes per issued warning.

If you hear a siren . . .

In a building – go to a pre-designated shelter area. Stay away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.

In a vehicle, trailer or mobile home – get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a nearby, sturdy building or storm shelter. Never try to outrun a tornado in an urban or congested area in your vehicle.

Outside with no shelter – lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding. Do not get under an overpass or a bridge.

You are safer in a low, flat location. Watch out for flying debris, which is the cause of most fatalities and injuries during tornadoes.

Severe Weather Notifications Because the sirens are not meant to be heard indoors, the city has another way to alert residents who are inside their homes and offices when severe weather is threatening. Residents and business owners can sign up at Smart911.com to receive severe weather notifications for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash flooding.

If you already have a registered safety profile, just sign in and select or update the notifications you would like to receive. The alerts notify residents in the areas immediately affected and are triggered by NWS polygon technology.

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Lost World Adventures Open House July 6 • 7 p.m. • 112 Church St. On Thursday, July 6, Decatur-based tour operator Lost World Adventures will welcome the community to its first open house and giveaway in its new location, 112 Church St. The focus will be Ecuador and the Galapagos. Giveaways will include a four-day/ three-night Galapagos cruise for one lucky person and a four-day/three-night package for two to La Selva Amazon Jungle Lodge and Resort, as well as a few other surprises.

Art and handicrafts from Mingei Arts will be on display too.

Join the fun, learn a little about South America, and receive a chance to win a trip.

Visit lostworld.com for more information.

Downtown Development continued from page 2 Welcome, Steel City Pops Downtown Decatur is getting a new manufacturing facility and a retailer all rolled into one. Steel City Pops of Birmingham, Alabama, is expanding into the Atlanta region and has chosen downtown Decatur as their Georgia manufacturing location.

They will make and sell popsicles in their new space on Church Street between Brush Izakaya and Trinity Mercantile. Customers can enjoy a tasty popsicle and watch them being made and packaged for sale in other retail locations.

Oakhurst Gets a New Brewpub and a Chinese Restaurant The Oak Brewpub is now open in the Oakhurst business district, offering a wide variety of craft brews in addition to brewing their own beer on site. The menu lists a range of small plate selections. Also new to Oakhurst is Double Dragon, a Chinese dining option from Michael Lo and George Yu, owners of Taiyo Ramen in downtown Decatur.

Business & Nonprofit News Rusty-Patched Bumble Bee Film Screening June 20 • 7:30-9 p.m.

Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St. In observance of National Pollinator Week, June 19-25, Bee City USA-Decatur (“Beecatur”) will present a screening of the short film “A Ghost in the Making: Searching for the Rusty-Patched Bumble Bee.” The screening will be followed by “Decatur’s Native Bees,” a presentation of native bee photographs taken by Decatur photographer Angela Wynne. Information about planting pollinatorfriendly gardens to help attract and sustain pollinator species will be available. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Peter Helfrich, education coordinator, BeeCity USA-Decatur at peterghelfrich@yahoo.com or 404-378-5552

Decatur Farmers Market Helps Small Businesses Grow

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ocal producer-only farmers markets like the Decatur Farmers Market help strengthen our local economy by providing an outlet for small businesses to grow in. It’s easy for people to talk directly to their farmers (and bakers!) at farmers markets, and that relationship between local producer and shopper creates a very special recipe for growth.

La Calavera Bakery, for example, was start-

ed by husband-and-wife team Eric Arillo and Dale Ralston, selling at just one farmers market in 2012. It has since grown to include a brick-and-mortar bakery in Decatur and now sells at five farmers markets across the city.

The La Calavera team works around the clock to make sure bread and pastries are baked fresh daily. They also incorporate as many ingredients from local sources as possible. Buying your bread from La Calavera

means you’re also supporting local farmers and growers, and all that money goes into making Decatur a stronger and more vibrant community.

Look for breads and traditional Mexican pastries and treats from La Calavera at the Saturday Decatur Farmers Market and in their shop at 747 E. College Ave. Help Decatur businesses thrive by shopping local.

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Business and Nonprofit News Amplify Decatur Raises $40,000 for Decatur Cooperative Ministry

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he 2017 Amplify Decatur Concert Series raised $40,000 for its beneficiary Decatur Cooperative Ministry (DCM), a Decatur-based, nonprofit organization that works to prevent and alleviate poverty and homelessness in Decatur and DeKalb County. The event was presented by Lenz and produced in partnership with Eddie’s Attic.

Thousands gathered on the downtown Decatur square in April for the Amplify Decatur Musical Festival, the centerpiece of the concert series. Americana legend and three-time Grammy Award winner Lucinda Williams headlined the outdoor festival.

Noah Gundersen, John Moreland, Harold Holloway and Company, Packway Handle Band, and Kristen Englenz and the Committed also performed. The concert series also featured four nights of music at historic Eddie’s Attic.

The nonprofit group Amplify Decatur has raised and donated more than $150,000 to DCM since 2011. This year’s $40,000 gift is the most an Amplify concert series has generated to date. Learn more about Amplify My Community and its events at amplifymycommunity.org.

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Business and Nonprofit News COVER STORY

Welcoming America Interactive Reception on the Square

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Business and Nonprofit News Tutoring Solutions Opens Office in Decatur Tutoring Solutions of Atlanta, an academic tutoring, test prep, and college planning company, has opened its doors in downtown Decatur. The company will share the new space at 112 Church St. with an experiential travel company, Lost World Adventures. The organization has served the Buckhead community for nearly 14 years and currently employs 16 tutors, most with PhDs or years of industry experience in their field of study.

Tutoring Solutions covers elementary through college-level content in chemistry, physics, biology, statistics, economics, computer science, writing, English, and Spanish.

Its also provides standardized test preparation for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, GED, and SSAT, as well as most AP exams. College and gap year counselors assist students through all steps of the college application process, including essay writing guidance and interview coaching. For those wishing to take a break from traditional academics before college, they help plan and schedule a mean-

ingfully structured year between high school and a student’s first year of college.

During the summer Tutoring Solutions offers academic enrichment and head start camps to help students transition into new classes with confidence and early knowledge of the content.

Morse Creek to Become a Woodlands Garden Feature

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little-known stream that passes near downtown Decatur was recently renamed Morse Creek by the U.S. Geological Survey. The name honors the Morse family, who donated the land that became Woodlands Garden, a forest preserve at the corner of Clairemont Avenue and Scott Boulevard. Morse Creek begins as a swale that collects rainwater behind 637 Clairemont Ave. Although the creek’s beginnings are modest, it meanders through Decatur and then west through Atlanta and eventually merges with Peachtree Creek in north Atlanta and with the Chattahoochee River in Marietta.

Woodlands Garden plans to restore the creek to shore up its banks and reduce erosion. The hope is that Morse Creek can become an enjoyable feature for visitors to Woodlands Garden, with the soft sounds of flowing water adding to the forest sounds of birds and rustling leaves that are also present on the property.

Next time you’re at Woodlands, check out Morse Creek at the east end of the property. On selected Sundays throughout May and June, local musical acts will perform in the garden pavilion.

See woodlandsgarden.org for a complete event calendar.

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The company’s hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. For more information call 404-949-9373, email tutoringsolutionsofatlanta@gmail.com, or visit tutoringsolutionsofatlanta.com.

Business and Nonprofit News Sugar Creek Becomes Part of South River Neighborhood Network

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he Nature Conservancy in Georgia has launched its new “South River Neighborhood Network” initiative, part of the Conservancy’s global conservation in cities program, in DeKalb and Fulton counties. The initiative’s Decatur projects include Sugar Creek Herb Farm and Garden at the Wylde Center, located in the Oakhurst neighborhood.

The project will focus on the removal of invasive species and replacing them with plants that are native, provide food for pollinators and create important habitat. The plants will also slow down the flow of water thus decreasing erosion and allowing the water to filtrate through the soil in a way that is best for the environment and the watershed. As at its other gardens, Wylde Center will use this new area for its environmental education programs, including school field trips to the greenspace.

Giving you the time and attention you deserve

•

Estate Planning

Wills & Trusts • Probate •

As your family grows, or you prepare for retirement, it’s important to have a plan.

LISA CRONIC, REALTOR® lisacronic@atlantafinehomes.com 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.

One West Court Square, Suite 410, Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 793-2510 • Brooks@Mackintosh.law www.Mackintosh.law

JUNE 2017 • Decatur Focus | 15

DBA News tes DBA Salu rsNews at Volunteeeting April Me ess

School

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DBA News Summer in the City . . . Friday, June 16 • 5-11 p.m.

Where Beach Meets Street

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hat do you get when you combine the Decatur Beach Party, a cultural community festival, and the Brick Store Pub’s 20th anniversary? An exciting, beach-themed, performance-rich celebration, now known as Summer in the City . . . Where Beach Meets the Street.

Come celebrate this new take on the annual Decatur Beach Party, featuring pop-up cultural performances, a special Brick Store aniversary cake, and much, much more. Admission is free to the community.

Old Favorites The event will bring back some tried-and-true Beach Party favorites, including the 60 tons of sand, kids activities, and a wall for rock climbing. A rockin’ band, Bogey and The Viceroy, will perform live from the stage on

the MARTA plaza beginning at 8 p.m. The band consists of New Orleans native Bogey Thornton and the troubadours of The Viceroy, an eight-piece band covering classic soul from every era, along with retro rock/pop and today’s current chart-toppers.

Apu Inka

Pop-Up Performances A variety of pop-up performances, artists and activities will include the Apu Inka Peruvian Band, MBond Afrika African Dance Group – plus stilt walking, fire twirling, sidewalk chalk art, and more. DJ Quasi Mandisco will spin records and direct attendees to the various festivities as they pop up.

Three Taverns Beer and Funnel Cakes The event will include plenty of funnel cakes, kettle corn and other carnival food for sale.

Beer from Decatur’s own Three Taverns, wine and soft drinks will be available for sale as well. All the restaurants will be open for business and many will serve special Summer in the City menus.

Bogey and The Viceroy Mayor Emerita Elizabeth Wilson with DBA President Kyle Williams

Meeting Reminder

June 27 Location TBD 5:15 p.m. Networking reception 6 p.m.

Program (to be announced)

The Gates Are Gone Traditionally the Decatur Beach Party, as the Decatur Business Association’s annual fundraiser, was a ticketed and gated event. This year, thanks to our sponsors, the gates are gone, entrance is free, and the program has expanded to include more performances and activities. There may be some charges for a few of the activities such as the rock climbing wall and souvenirs such as light wands.

Visit DecaturDBA.com or the Decatur Beach Party Facebook page for more information.

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Decatur Events Join the Decatur Arts Alliance for Last Call Final event of the Decatur Arts Festival The Decatur Arts Festival draws to a quiet, refined close on Sunday, June 11, 4-6 p.m., when the Decatur Arts Alliance hosts the “Last Call” closing reception for the festival’s fine arts exhibition in the Dalton Gallery in the Dana Fine Arts Building at Agnes Scott College. Selected artists will be on hand to discuss their works, their processes, and their inspirations. Many of the pieces are for sale. You can learn more about the exhibition by visiting decartartsfestival.com.

George Lakey Visits Decatur for Book Talk and Workshop Friday, June 9 • 7:30 p.m. – Seasoned Quaker activist, strategist and author George Lakey will hold a book talk and signing of his latest book, Viking Economics: How the Scandinavians Got It Right – And How We Can, Too, at the Atlanta Friends Meeting House, 701 W. Howard Ave. Light refreshments and childcare will be available. For more information, contact Susan Firestone, susanfires@gmail.com.

Saturday, June 10 • 9 a.m.-noon – A strategic planning workshop with George Lakey on “A Nation Divided – Where do we go from here?” will take place at Oakhurst Baptist Church, 222 East Lake Dr. For information and to register, contact Leslie Withers, leslie@ML1945.com.

Both events are free and open to all.

Still Need More Art? Some of Decaur artist Lori Lejeune’s most recent works are on display at the Decatur Arts Alliance/Decatur Visitors Center Gallery at 113 Clairemont Ave. Lori explores the intersection of art and technology using digital tools to create her mixed media artwork.

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Decatur Events Wylde Center Beer Garden and Fundraiser Set for June 24

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he Wylde Center’s annual Beer Garden and Silent Auction Fundraiser brings together local brews plus food and music for a casual evening outdoors at Oakhurst Garden, 435 Oakview Rd. A VIP Happy Hour begins at 4:30 p.m., and the main event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All attendees must be at least 21 years old.

The Beer Garden will be held rain or shine and is presented by Chip Wallace of Keller Knapp Realty. Tickets are $40 for members and $50 for nonmembers. VIP tickets are $250 per pair and include additional benefits such as admission to the VIP party, access to the sponsor/patron lounge, deck and restrooms, and early bidding on auction items. All tickets are available at wyldecenter-beergarden. squarespace.com.

Silent auction items will include vacation getaways, restaurant gift certificates, spa packages and other enticing items and experiences.

Each guest will receive a free souvenir Wylde Center pint glass so they can sample

brews from Sweetwater Brewery, Wild Heaven Craft Beer, Treehorn Cider and more. The menu will include tastings from a number of local restaurants including Farm Burger, Pallookaville Fine Foods and Matador Cantina at the main event, plus Southern Food

Revival at the VIP Happy Hour. Live music will be provided by The Benders. VIP Ticket holders will also enjoy signature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and special desserts. The event is sponsored by Decatur CoWorks and Mixit Marketing.

NEW Summer League Recreational Swim Team!!

Located in the Heart of Decatur - At Agnes Scott College “We will be SMALL in numbers so we can be BIG on instruction” Practice Starts May 1st For More Information go to our website at www.intowndolphins.com Or Email us at - Intowndolphins@daqswim.com

JUNE 2017 • Decatur Focus | 19

School News Local Bands Battle It Out for Westchester Students

F

ive local bands rocked the night away for Westchester Elementary School’s second annual Battle of the Bands, presented by Decatur CoWorks and the Holley Realty Team. The sold-out event featured The Benders, Carlos Danger, The Dammages, MoBeda and Rick Beato and Friends – all of whom have children in City Schools of Decatur (CSD).

Dr. David Dude, CSD superintendent, was among those judging the performances, along with Mia Green, musician; Matt Still, Grammywinning producer, engineer, and mixer; and Mark Trojanowski, drummer, Sister Hazel.

Local celebrity deejay Yvonne Monet emceed the event, which raised more than $26,000 for Westchester’s PTA – money that will be used for student enrichment, teacher grants and other educational experiences.

Westchester will hold a Call for Bands for its 2018 event this coming fall. Details will be available at WestchesterRocks.org. For a complete list of sponsors and event photos, visit WestchesterRocks.org.

Photos: Greta Reynolds, From the Hip Photography

20 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2017

School News Take a Break at Disney World

T

he Renfroe Middle School PTA is again sponsoring Disney Youth Education classes at Walt Disney World. Classes will take place during fall break for students of all ages. With class registration, the entire family can save 24-35 percent on park tickets. This year there is an offer for discounted group rates

on lodging. The PTA receives a portion of ticket sales and the travel agent will donate 5 percent of the reservations booked.

Early registration deadline is June 15. Late registration deadline is Aug. 14. For more information, visit renfroepta.org/disney or decaturdisney.com.

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School News DEF Scholarships and Summer Education Grants

T

his is the time of year when the Decatur Education Foundation (DEF) awards scholarships, summer “EdVenture” grants, and special education summer grants to students across the district. This year, thanks to generous contributions from the community, high school seniors have received more than $50,000 in scholarships.

Eight graduating seniors are heading to college with brand new laptops, thanks to donors who support the Tools for Success Laptop Grant. Starting college armed with new technology will give these students the resources they need to enter the next phase of their education with confidence.

For most students, summer is a fun time of leisure after the hard work of the school year. For some students though, it is a time

to pursue an EdVenture – an enrichment activity that deepens their knowledge in a certain area. DEF’s EdVenture grants help students cover the cost of these enrichment programs. Eleven middle and high school students were awarded $6,300 in grants, allowing them to explore foreign languages, sports broadcasting, forensic science, and ornithology.

Thirty-one students with special learn-

ing needs were awarded Special Education Summer grants for a wide variety of summer programs, including circus camp, outdoor adventure camp, and music therapy camps.

These educational opportunities would not be possible without the generous contributions from local businesses and our community. Thank you for supporting DEF and #OurKids. To learn more, visit decatureducationfoundation.org.

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22 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2017

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Around Town

Mayor Salutes Solar Energy on Earth Day

#decaturga

Show off your Decatur on social media and share it with your neighbors. Email renae.madison@decaturga.com.

Decatur 7th Graders on Clean-Up Duty

In honor of Earth Day, Mayor Garrett has proclaimed Third Avenue as Solar Avenue.

She was joined by members of the voluntary board, installers, homeowners and organizers of Solarize Decatur-DeKalb. #letthesunshine #solarizedecatur

E-911 Tweets

Renfroe 7th graders take a break from their hard work cleaning up Decatur Cemetery to pose at the marker of Dr. Carl G. Renfroe, who devoted more than 44 years of effort to public education in Decatur and to Georgia, serving on the staffs of governors Carl Sanders and Jimmy Carter. #hardwork

#decaturcemetery

#somuchhistory

PD, Public Works, Milagros Team Up on Little Free Library Project

In honor of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, Decatur Police held a Tweet-A-Long from the 911 Center. Follow Decatur Police on Twitter @ cityofdecaturpd.

Investigator Jonathon Vandiver built a Little Free Library and Decatur Public Works installed it in front of the Decatur Police Department. The Milagros artists took a break from mural painting to give it the treatment. Stop by and check it out.

#pdtweets #staysafeoutthere

#readabookleaveabook #investigatingwoodwork #beautifydecatur JUNE 2017 • Decatur Focus | 23

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