Focus City of Decatur
POOLS OPEN MAY 26
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MAY 2018 Volume 28 • Number 9
Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia
Years OF ARTS IN DECATUR
Festival Weekend May 25-27 Artsy Events All Month
Downtown Decatur comes alive with art, music, dance, food, and fun over the Memorial Day Weekend. See page 14 for more information.
News 3 City
BUsiness 10 NEWs
DBA 16 NEWs
DECATUR School 17 EVENTs news 21
Focus City of Decatur
Children’s Home Master Plan Ideas Become Concepts
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uring the kick-off workshop in February, the community came together to celebrate Decatur’s purchase of the 77-acre Children’s Home property and began to imagine the possibilities for its future. The kick-off was followed by a series of interactive workshops in March with more tours of the property, great innovation among round table activities, and shared perspectives of the community’s priorities. We imagined the possibilities. We were innovative in how to approach different priorities. And now it’s time to illustrate. The city, assisted by its consultant team led by Cooper Carry, Inc., hosted a fifth public workshop on April 30. Three different master plan concepts were unveiled that took into consideration and found balance among all of the public input to date, including all the ideas from more than 40 Civic Dinners.
Did you miss the April 30 workshop? Come to the May 7 City Commission Work Session to hear the presentation. Would you like to add your voice to the different master plan concepts? Take the online survey through May 13 and sign up for announcements by visiting decaturnext.com/category/umch. We want you to stay involved in shaping the vision for the future of the Children’s Home property. For more information, email imagine77@decaturga.com. Stay involved in May Monday, May 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m. City Commission Work Session Presentation of Master Plan Concepts Sunday, May 13 Last day to take online survey. Visit decaturnext.com/category/umch/ for survey link.
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. Clear zone
DECATUR CITY COMMISSION Patti Garrett...................................................Mayor Tony Powers..............................Mayor Pro Tem Scott Drake..................................Commissioner Brian Smith..................................Commissioner Kelly Walsh..................................Commissioner
Free Home Repairs for Older Residents Decatur homeowners who are at least 62 years old may be eligible for help with home and yard maintenance and repair free of charge through the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Service Project. Criteria include owning and residing in your home inside Decatur city limits and having a fixed or lower income. Since 2003, project volunteers have installed handicap ramps, replaced rotten wood, weatherized homes, repaired water damage and worked with professional partners to do plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work. The 17th annual project will take place on the weekend of Jan. 19-21, 2019. To volunteer or to refer someone to the program, contact Lee Ann Harvey, 678-553-6548, or leeann. harvey@decaturga.com. For more information visit mlkserviceproject.com. 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.
2 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
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 Jill Joplin................................................. Treasurer Lisa Bobb......................................... Co-Secretary Emily Holden................................ Co-Secretary Tim Martin.................................... Past President Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com
City News
1977 | West Ponce de Leon at Commerce Drive | 2017
Focus on Economic Development
If you’re new to Decatur, you may not realize how much the city has changed over the years. These before-and-after photos tell part of the story, and illustrate how the city’s planning efforts have paid off and revitalized the downtown business district.
1998 | 425 Church St. | 2017
1977 | The Courthouse Square | 2017
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 3
City News Open Office Hour with Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers
Decatur Chosen as Finalist for 2018 All-America City Award
ecatur’s Open Office Hour for May will feature Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers on the myths and facts around development and more. The community is invited to tune in on Thursday, May 23, 7-8 p.m., and may submit questions related to the topic live via Twitter, Facebook, email or telephone. For those who are unable to watch the live sessions, recordings will be available on the Decatur website for viewing at any time. Watch the website, the DecaturMinute blog, and other social media sites for announcements and updates. For information, contact Renae Madison, 678-553-6561, or renae.madison@decaturga.com.
he City of Decatur is one of 20 finalists selected by the National Civic League (NCL) for the 2018 All-America City Award (AAC). The award, presented to 10 communities each year, recognizes and celebrates communities that engage residents in innovative, inclusive and effective efforts to tackle critical challenges. AAC Award recipients serve as models in practicing inclusive civic engagement and creating community connections. NCL President Doug Linkhart explains the importance of using inclusive civic engagement: “These finalist communities are building local capacity to solve problems and improve their quality of life.” Projects submitted by Decatur included the Better Together Initiative, Community Policing, and the I Am Decatur project, a collection of portraits and stories from a diverse cross-section of the community. Finalists represent the diversity of American communities, from the largest cities to the smallest. The 20 finalists include: Springdale, AR; Placentia, CA; Stockton, CA; Longmont, CO; Miami Beach, FL; Decatur, GA; Ann Arbor, MI; Battle Creek, MI; Las Vegas, NV; Charlotte, NC; Cincinnati, OH; Beaverton, OR; Allentown, PA; Columbia, SC; Kershaw County, SC; Mount Pleasant, SC; El Paso, TX; San Antonio, TX; Pasco, WA; and Tacoma, WA. These cities share a bond in creating equitable communities through inclusive community engagement. The finalists will convene in Denver, CO, in June to be recognized as one of 10 All-America Cities. Decatur representatives will demonstrate the positive effects of ongoing engagement strategies and partnerships that speak to Decatur’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and engagement. The 2018 AAC awards highlight programs that “focus on inclusive engagement practices that promote equity and bring all voices to the table.”
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National Public Works Week May 20-26 Celebrate the Services We Depend On The theme of this year’s National Public Works week is “The Power of Public Works,” celebrating the impact that the many facets of public works have on modern civilization. From The “green” roof providing clean 1water, disposing of solid waste, building roads at Fire Station and bridges, planning for and implementing mass transit solutions to removing snow on roadways and devising emergency management strategies to meet natural or manmade disasters, public works services determine a society’s quality of life. The community is invited to celebrate the quiet dedication of our public works department in responding to these needs.
Holiday Solid Waste and Recycling Services Memorial Day • Monday, May 28 Monday trash and recycling pick up will be on Tuesday, May 29 Tuesday trash and recycling pick up will be on Wednesday, May 30
City News Congratulations to Decatur 101 Graduates for 2018
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ongratulations to the 83 graduates of the 2018 Decatur 101 class – 33 in the morning class and 50 in the evening class. Decatur 101 participants attended six classes provided by the city and one provided by City Schools of Decatur. They are pictured during the last city class, which featured Active Living, Children and Youth Services, and Communications and Volunteering. Graduation certificates and T-shirts were presented, along with a talk by Mayor Patti Garrett and Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers. Decatur 101 is offered annually, February-April. Classes are held on Thursdays in the morning and evening, and are open to the community. If you are interested in attending the 2019 class, email your name, address, phone number, and preference of the morning or evening class to Shirley Baylis, shirley.baylis@decaturga.com, or Linda Harris, linda.harris@decaturga.com.
Decatur to Honor Excellence in Design Wednesday, May 9 • 6:30 p.m. Decatur City Hall 509 N. McDonough St.
The City of Decatur and the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission invite you to attend the 2018 Decatur Design Awards ceremony in the City Commission Meeting Room. Come and help celebrate projects that demonstrate excellence in design, historic preservation, adaptive use, and residential additions. Every year the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission evaluates nominations and selects projects that are exemplary within our community. The awards ceremony is held in May to honor National Preservation Month. For more information, contact Angela. Threadgill@decaturga.com.
Planning Commission Vacancy to Be Filled The City Commission needs to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission. If you would like to apply, complete a Statement of Interest form (decaturga.com/city-government/ resident-boards-commissions) and submit it to peggy.merriss@decaturga.com or mail it to the City Manager’s Office, Decatur City Hall, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, by Friday, May 18.
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 5
City News
NEWS Maxfield Trio to Perform Concert on the Square
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he Decatur Youth Council invites the community to rock out to a mix of classic rock, funk rhythms, and 90s grunge by the Maxfield Trio on Saturday, May 12, 7 p.m. The trio is made up of Bob Maxfield, Alex Sawyer (both teachers at Decatur High School), and Jordan Endsley. While they have played together for several years, this will be their debut at the Decatur Business Association’s biannual Concerts on the Square. All concerts are free and open to the community.
‘Meet Your Commissioners’
Curious to know more about each of the City Commissioners? The Decatur Youth Council (DYC) has interviewed each of the five elected officials and asked them 10 questions on subjects ranging from goals on the future of Decatur to the superpowers they would like to possess. Visit the DYC event tent during Concerts on the Square, Saturday, May 12, to find the answers and speak with council members about what they have learned from the project.
Applications Open
Want to learn more about the DYC? Want to join? Come by the DYC event tent during the Maxfield Trio show to speak with current DYC members and pick up an application. The council is made up of 15 students interested in local government and how to make a difference in their community. DYC is open to high school students who attend public, private, or home-based schools and live in incorporated Decatur. Members can create an annual work program focused on engaging their peers in community activities, learn about the various departments within city government, and participate in the city’s planning and decision-making process. Applications are due by Monday, Aug. 13, and can be found online at decaturga.com/dyc.
Stay Safe during Severe Weather Severe weather in our area often includes the threat of tornadoes. Even a weak tornado with winds of 100 mph can wreak havoc on property and jeopardize the well-being of people and pets. To help alert residents to an imminent tornado threat, Decatur operates emergency warning sirens at sites around the city. Decatur recently replaced its old sirens and added new ones behind the police department and on the Children’s Home property A test of the system is conducted at 5 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. Visit the siren page on the city’s website or contact Lt. Barry Woodward, 404373-6551, for more information
Receiving Smart911 Alerts
Smart911
Smart911 is a free service available to TM all residents and business owners. It is private and secure – and the information in your safety profile can travel with you. Create your profile through the Smart911 website, Smart911.com, in your hometown and the information becomes available to 911 call takers anywhere in the country. Smart911 will also initiate alerts based on NWS weather polygon technology. 6 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
Community Transportation Plan Update
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e are in the home stretch of the Community Transportation Plan (CTP) Update planning process. The city and the consultant team, jB+a and Toole Design Group, are ready to share the draft plan. Public Presentations in May Thursday, May 10 • 6-8 p.m. Decatur Recreation Center • 231 Sycamore St. Monday, May 21 City Commission Work Session 6:30-7:30 p.m. Decatur City Hall • 509 N. McDonough St. The draft has integrated community feedback in an implementable way that further ensures an effective, safe, and balanced transportation network. How We Got Here Participants at October’s public kick-off meeting identified mobility needs and took a deeper look at the capacity of a street. We also had two online public input opportunities through a survey and a WikiMap application with nearly 1,000 contributors. Another public workshop in February continued with a presentation on Complete Streets, a policy that is long-standing in Decatur that seeks to safely accommodate all users – pedestrian, the disabled, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders. Participants identified current and future needs, helped to decide short- and long-term recommendations, and developed a new vision for mobility options and improvements throughout Decatur. Many in Decatur are familiar with the 2007 Community Transportation Plan – our ambitious longterm policy roadmap for promoting health, choice, community, and connectivity. Through the planning process, community feedback has brought focus to the broader equity, sustainability, and active living goals in Decatur’s 2010 Strategic Plan as it relates to transportation infrastructure. Have you missed some of the discussions and presentations? Come up to speed on the CTP Update and sign up for announcements by visiting DecaturNext.com/category/transportation-plan-update. For more information, contact Angela Threadgill, 678-553-6575, or angela.threadgill@decaturga.com.
City News
CITY BUDGET D ecatur’s fiscal year 20182019 budget process continues with these important dates, subject to City Commission approval on May 21.
May 21: Formal presentation of the budget to the City Commission and adoption of tentative 2018 millage rates.
Process Moves Forward
Touch-a-Budget Event Representatives from different city departments participated in a cool and drizzly “Touch-a-Budget” expo on the MARTA plaza in March. They spoke with city residents about what their departments do and how they interface with other departments to keep Decatur running smoothly.
June 4: Work session and public hearing on proposed FY 2018-2019 budget and revised 2017-2018 budget and 2018 millage rates. June 11: Public hearing on proposed FY 2018-2019 budget and revised 2017-2018 budget (tentative). June 18: Public hearing and scheduled adoption of proposed FY 2018-2019 budget and revised 2017-2018 budget and 2018 millage rates. All public hearings on the budget will be held at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough St. Copies of the FY 2018-2019 budget and revised 2017-2018 budget will be available at Decatur City Hall and at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore St., beginning Wednesday, May 23. They will also be posted online at decaturga.com/ budget. Contact Meredith Roark, 404-3704102, or meredith.roark@decaturga. com, if you have questions or need more information. Visit decaturga. com/budget for details.
BUDGET Fiscal Year
7 to June July 1, 201
30, 2018
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 7
City News Decatur Bike-toSchool Poster Contest Winners Announced
2018 Poster Contest
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1st Place Bijou Proctor
ijou Proctor, a 5th grader at the 4/5 Academy at 5th Avenue, recently took first prize in the Decatur Bike-to-School poster contest for 2018, organized by Decatur Active Living, Safe Routes to School, and Bicycle South. Her poster is reproduced at right. Other winners are:
4/5 Academy at 5th Ave. 5th grade sponsored by Clear zone
Second place: Kathleen Buch, fourth grade, 4/5 Academy at 5th Avenue Third place: Nikolay Brucherseifer, fourth grade, 4/5 Academy at 5th Avenue Fourth place: Abel Chan Ying, first grade, Clairemont Elementary School
2018
Congratulations to these student artists! Their works will be reproduced and posted around town to remind us all to be safe on our bikes so look for them around the city. The four winners each received a gift certificate, courtesy of Bicycle South. The certificates were presented at a City Commission meeting. Look for information about next year’s poster contest in early 2019.
Poster Contest
2nd Place Kathleen Buch 4/5 Academy at 5th Ave. 4th grade
sponsored by Clear zone
Kathleen Buch
Senior Picnic in a Park May 9 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • McKoy Park, 1000 Adams St. Enjoy a day in the park with Decatur Active Living. The main course, drinks and desserts will be provided. Attendees are asked to bring a side dish to share with everyone. There will also be entertainment, games and much more. Registration is required. Contact Sara Holmes, sara.holmes@decaturga.com or 678-553-6559.
National Senior Health and Fitness Day ‘Active Today…Healthier Tomorrow’ May 30 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Decatur Recreation Center This year’s Senior Health and Fitness Day in Decatur will include panel discussions sponsored by the police department, health screenings, exercise demos, vendors and much more. The event is sponsored by Decatur Active Living in partnership with the DeKalb County Library. Contact sara.holmes@decaturga.com or 678-553-6559. 8 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
Nikolay Brucherseifer 2018 Poster Contest 3rd Place Nikolay Brucherseifer 4/5 Academy at 5th Ave. / 4th grade
sponsored by
Clear zone
City News Fire Hydrant Servicing May 7-June 7 The Decatur Fire Department will conduct fire hydrant servicing to ensure all hydrants are functional with the proper amount of water flow and to meet insurance requirements. Hydrant testing signs will be posted in various locations during service testing. Flowing water is used to test the hydrant. Flow times will be Monday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. It is best to avoid doing laundry during flow times in your neighborhood. If you have questions or concerns call 404-373-5092.
Save the Date: June 23 Open House at Fire Station 1
Home Fire Sprinkler Day May 19 Home Fire Sprinkler Day, initiated by the National Fire Protection Association and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, aims at raising awareness of this life-saving technology while breaking down the myths and legislative barriers to its use. Fires in residential dwellings, especially one- and two-family homes, continue to kill nearly 3,000 people each year in the United States – more than all other natural disasters combined. Visit nfpa.org/firesprinklerday for more information or contact Fire Chief Ninetta Violante, Ninetta.violante@decaturga.com.
The Decatur Fire Department will host an open house on June 23 at Fire Station No.1, 230 Trinity Place. Community members are invited to tour the station, meet fire personnel and learn about the various programs the department offers. Stay tuned to the June Focus and city social media channels for more information.
Firefighters Crush Push-Up Challenge Decatur Fire & Rescue wanted to show appreciation for reaching 1,043 likes on their Facebook page with a 1,000 push-up contest. Fire personnel each did 50 sets of 20 push-ups. From left to right, firefighter Justin Tubbs, FAO Javen Dortch, Lieutenant Justin Sardine, Captain Gary Menard, FAO Adam Bostic, Chief Ninetta Violante, and firefighter Kelvonte Byrd. APRIL 2018 • Decatur Focus | 9
Business & Nonprofit News decatur-bike-month-poster-2018-rev.pdf
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MAY IS NATIONAL MAY IS NATIONAL BIKE MONTH decatur-bike-month-poster-2018-rev.pdf
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BIKE MONTH
Decatur Celebrates with a Variety of Bicycling Opportunities!
Friends of the Decatur Cemetery May Events
Every Saturday:
Sam’s Freight Room Ride, 2 pm | Meet at 415 E. Howard Ave. for an easy 11-mile ride through Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and Decatur. No-drop ride.
May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Silver Spokes Program Every Saturday: Decatur Freight Room Ride, 2 pm | Meet at 415 E. Howard Ave. May 5: Women Sam’s and Bike Skills Class Celebrates for an easy 11-mile ride through Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and May 9: Bike-to-School with a Decatur.DayNo-drop ride. May 14-18: Bike-to-Work Week May Day: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Silver Spokes Program Variety ofBike-to-Work May 18: Ride with Trikes. Pre-registration is required. $25 per month Bicycling May 18: Third Friday Decatur Fun Ride, 6:30 5: Women andpmBike Skills Class Opportunities! May Ebster Recreation Center. Helmets required for all city-sponsored rides.
Ride with Trikes. Pre-registration is required. $25 per month Ebster Recreation Center.
Riders are invited to stop by Decatur Recreation Center 7-10 am for coffee and pastries on their way to work. Meet at Decatur Recreation Center. Followed by a visit to a local pub or restaurant for refreshments.
May 18: Bike Registration at Decatur Recreation Center 5-7 pm
May 9: Bike-to-School Day
Have your bike registered by Decatur Police.
May 14-18: Bike-to-Work Week
May 20: Bicycle South, 2098 N. Decatur Road
Easy no-drop ride to Stone Mountain Park, beginning from the store at 9 am. Refreshments at Bicycle South after the ride.
Helmets required for May 18: Bike-to-Work Day: May 26-27: Bike Valet at Decatur Arts Festival all city-sponsored rides. Riders are invited stop by Decatur Recreation Center 7-10 am Sponsored by the Decatur Arts Alliance and the Cityto of Decatur. for coffeeatand pastries May 26: Bike Registration Decatur Arts on their way to work.
Get more details!
Festival Bike Valet, 10 am-2 pm
May 18: Third Friday Decatur Fun Ride, 6:30 pm
Bring your bike to have it registered by the Decatur Police, and pick up some bike safety information, too.
Meet at Decatur Recreation Center. Followed by a visit to a local pub or restaurant for refreshments.
Active May Living 18: Bike Registration at
decaturga.com/biking • beactivedecatur.com Decatur Recreation
Center 5-7 pm
Have your bike registered by Decatur Police.
May 20: Bicycle South, 2098 N. Decatur Road
Easy no-drop ride to Stone Mountain Park, beginning from the store at 9 am. Refreshments at Bicycle South after the ride.
May 26-27: Bike Valet at Decatur Arts Festival
Sponsored by the Decatur Arts Alliance and the City of Decatur.
Get more details!
May 26: Bike Registration at Decatur Arts Festival Bike Valet, 10 am-2 pm
Bring your bike to have it registered by the Decatur Police, and pick up some bike safety information, too.
Active Living
decaturga.com/biking • beactivedecatur.com
Meet the Artists and Enjoy the Show
Galeria Regina • 409 Mead Rd., Unit 5 Galeria Regina invites the community to visit a new exhibit, “The Transitory Theater,” May 19-June 23. The exhibit will feature paintings by Mike Fink and ceramics by Charity Hofert. There will be artist receptions on Saturday, May 19 and June 16, 5-9 p.m. For more information, call 404431-7525 or visit galeriaregina.com.
10 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
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econd Sunday Strolls begin on May 13 and continue on the second Sunday of every month through October. These informative tours are especially good for new residents and visitors who want to know more about our cemetery and its importance to the community. Strolls usually last no longer than 75 minutes and acquaint visitors with some of those whose names can be seen everywhere in our city, county and state. Lace up your walking shoes, bring your water bottles and sunscreen and meet at the gazebo in the Old Section off Commerce Drive at 2:30 p.m. A $5 donation is appreciated. Special tours may be arranged by contacting friendsofdecaturcemetery@ gmail.com. On Sunday, May 27, 4 p.m., the Friends will celebrate the life of former FODC chair (2009-2012) Nancie Sill with the dedication of a sundial memorial in the Old Section of the cemetery near the Commerce Drive gates. Nancie was a nature photographer and particularly loved depicting hummingbirds. Some of her works will be on display. Join the Friends and raise a glass of old-fashioned lemonade as we remember Nancie.
Business & Nonprofit News Sycamore Place Gallery Celebrates Legendary Artist/Musician Friday, May 25 • 7-10 p.m. • 120 Sycamore Place
Core Dance May Events Field Day-Atlanta • May 6 Core Studios, 139 Sycamore St. 5 p.m. Showcase 1: Fieldwork Showcase 7 p.m. Showcase 2: Open Call for Artists Core Dance in partnership with The Field NYC presents Field Day, including the Atlanta Spring Fieldwork Showcase. Field Day is an opportunity for community artists to show their work-inprocess and receive feedback on it from the audience and fellow performers. This non-curated performance opportunity is available to artists of all mediums – dance, theater, spoken word, music, visual arts – in a professionally produced format. Field Day 2018 will include the Spring Fieldwork Showcase. Tickets may be purchased at donate.coredance.org/ campaigns/6701-field-day. Core Performance Company at MAD Festival May 11 and 12 Balzer Theater, 84 Luckie St. NW
Join Sycamore Place Gallery to celebrate the art and music of the late Whit Connah, former front man for Atlanta band Hair of the Dog. The band and special guests will pay homage to Connah’s unique brand of Cajun, blues and roots music in a live tribute performance. Beverages and light fare will be served. The evening kicks off a two-week exhibit, “Legacy of a Legend,” featuring works by Connah (like those pictured above) and 13 resident artists.
Root City Mother’s Day Popup Market – One Day Only Celebrate Mother’s Day with Root City on May 12, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., at the Decatur Conference Center, 130 Clairemont Ave., just behind the Courtyard Marriott. There will be 30-plus makers and artists selling local, artisan-made goods, a DJ, workshops, a kids’ activity with Sittersphere, and more. Follow along on social media @hellorootcity or sign up for the newsletter at hellorootcity.com/contact.
Core Performance Company will perform an excerpt of “July 13, 2016: 4:10 p.m.,” a new work by D. Patton White in collaboration with Core Performance Company. Visit fullradiusdance.org/mad for more information. EnCore ‘Dance on Film’ Festival May 25-26 Core Studios, 139 Sycamore St. 5-10 p.m. EnCore Dance on Film, a social gathering and celebration of the arts, brings together a collection of original dance works for the screen. These works are performed, choreographed and directed by local artists as well as their regional, national, and international peers. The event is part of the Decatur Arts Festival Artwalk and is free and open to the community. Visit coredance.org/ encore-dance-on-film.html for more information. MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 11
Business & Nonprofit News Spring Time at the Decatur Farmers Markets
Mercedes Melendez at the educational chef booth
308 Clairemont Ave. Wednesdays: 4-7 p.m. • Saturdays: 9-1 p.m. Spring in Georgia means that local farmers can bring a lot more produce to the farmers market. As the weather gets warmer, you’ll find warm-weather crops starting to trickle in. This spring, look for seasonal favorites like strawberries, asparagus, and spring flower bouquets. You will also find more variety in greens like kale, spinach, and chard alongside colorful carrots, crisp radishes, and more. Educational chefs Mercedes Melendez and Paola Villafane will be at the market to show you how to cook seasonally. You’ll find them cooking up samples and answering any questions you may have about recipes or how to cook special produce.
Spring Book Sale at the Decatur Library Arts Festival, Saturday, May 16 The Friends of the Decatur Library will host a book sale May 26, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., on the lawn of the library, 215 Sycamore St. Proceeds provide funds for library materials and programs for children and adults. Only cash or checks will be accepted. Dealers must scan at tables.
12 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
Business & Nonprofit News Gathered and Grounded Is Open Gathered and Grounded is now open at 533 Howard Ave. The multifunctional space will be used for many different purposes, including supporting youth in all aspects of life and as a gathering spot to create community. It is also available to be rented for meetings, workshops and other events. Registration is open for therapeutic groups, yoga, compassionate mindfulness, workshops and more. For more information visit gatheredandgrounded.com, or find them on Facebook and Instagram. Coming in June: The Blue Lotus, an evening of sharing life experiences. Participants can share three-minute stories based on a theme. Stay tuned for more details.
Gathered and Grounded instructor leads Decatur fiefighters in a yoga exercise at Fire Station No. 1.
Visit ‘Different Trains’ During Art Walk May 25 Both Different Trains Galleries – DTG 1 and 2 – will be open during the Decatur Art Walk on the evening of May 25. Stop by DTG1 at 432 E. Howard Ave. in the Old Depot District to check out an exhibition of M.C. Escher prints and contemporary math art. DTG2 at Cornerstone Bank will host a show called “Decaturscapes.” For more information, visit DifferentTrainsGallery.com. Shawn Vinson founded his first art gallery in Decatur in 1998. His latest venture, Different Trains Gallery 2 (DTG2), opened in 2017 in Cornerstone Bank of Decatur and has hosted several exhibitions and several private events.
Beecatur Announces Theme for National Pollinator Week National Pollinator Week is June 18-24. This year, Bee City USA-Decatur. GA (a.k.a. “Beecatur”) will mark the week with Decatur’s first citywide celebration of the event. The theme selected by Beecatur’s members is “Bee at Home in Decatur.” According to Peter Helfrich, chair of the Beecatur committee, “We felt the theme reflected the idea of bees being an important part of our community of homes, schools and places of worship. The art and poster for this year’s celebration tie in to that relationship as well.” Beecatur’s celebration plans include workshops, talks, and other special programming designed to inform the public of the critical role bees and other diverse pollinator species play in Georgia, across our country, and worldwide. For more information, visit beecaturga.com or email beecaturga@gmail.com.
‘High Noon History’ Returns
Artist Kozmo Vinyl with Different Trains owner Shawn Vinson
The DeKalb History Center announces the return of “High Noon History,” a walking tour, on Fridays in May. Each tour will last 45 minutes – perfect for those on lunch break. The topic will be the history of Decatur square. Reservations are not required. The tour will begin on the south steps of the Historic DeKalb Courthouse at noon, beginning May 4 through May 25. Bring a sandwich, bring a friend, and enjoy some history. Reservations are not required. Free for members, $3 for nonmembers. All forms of payment accepted. For more information, contact Marissa Howard, 404-373-1088 ext. 20, or howard@dekalbhistory.org. MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 13
Business & Nonprofit News Downtown Decatur comes alive Memorial Day weekend with nearly 160 artists, continuous musical entertainment, comedy, dance, and a special “3-day IPA” brewed by Three Taverns specifically for the the festival. Find out more at decaturartsfestival.com.
Poster Unveiling Thursday, May 10 The Solarium, 321 Hill St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Get the Arts Festival started and get a first look at the poster, meet the artist, and pick up a copy of the program. Enjoy snacks, cake, and beverages, courtesy of the Arts Alliance and its sponsors.
Fine Arts Exhibition Opening Reception Tuesday, May 22 The Dalton Gallery/Dana Fine Arts Building Agnes Scott College, 5-7:15 p.m. Visit the annual juried fine arts exhibition, hosted by Agnes Scott College and held in conjunction with the May meeting of the Decatur Business Association.
ArtWalk Friday, May 25 All around Decatur, 5-11 p.m.
Decatur’s largest one-night gallery event. Stroll around town to see exhibits at various shops and galleries and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks. Drop by East Court Square to visit beer sponsors Steady Hand Beer Co., Arches Brewing, and Decatur’s own Three Taverns Brewery (serving this year’s Arts-Fest-only specialty, 3-day IPA).
Kids Festival Saturday, May 26 Decatur Recreation Center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Arts and crafts, inflatables, juggling, clowns, and lots of fun, art-oriented activities for the entire family.
14 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
Business and Nonprofit News Lotsa Laffs & Lit May 26-27 DeKalb History Center, Decatur LOL, and Literary Arts Tents on the Old Courthouse lawn Check out theater and literary arts activities and improv and comedy at the Decatur LOL tent all day Saturday and Sunday.
Artists Market May 26-27
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday More than 150 artists, artisans, and craftspeople set up their tents around downtown, offering jewelry, paintings, sculpture, photographs, glass work, and more. There’ll be food vendors on East Court Square and beverages to help keep you cool.
Performing Arts May 26-27 Community Bandstand, all day long Saturday performers include Conundrums, Tray Dahl and the Jugtime Rag Band, Michelle Malone, the Breeze Kings, Leah Calvert and AJ Ghent [j-ent] closing out the day with his eight-string lap-steel guitar. Sunday performers will include Sehwe Village Percussion, Nubian Sounds, Tamara Goldinella, and the Heather Gillis Band. Guitar wunderkind Cody Matlock will close the day with a rousing blues set. If your tastes run to quieter tunes, stroll down to the Acoustic Palette tent on West Ponce de Leon Avenue.
Cody Matlock sunday 4 pm debra cole saturday 4 pm Hayley Ellman Sunday 2:30 pm
tamara goldinella Sunday 2 pm
michelle malone Saturday 1 pm
Get the Details
The Arts Festival program will be available beginning May 11 at the Decatur Visitors Center, 113 Clairemont Ave. Pick up a copy and plan to make the most of your Memorial Day weekend in Decatur.
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 15
Decatur DBA News Events School News
DBA Golf Tournament May 14
MAY MEANS MUSIC
The DBA invites members of the Decatur community to participate in the 2018 DBA Golf Open. There will be beer, lunch, a raffle and snacks. The registration fee is $125 per player. Raffle tickets are $5 each. Sponsorship opportunities are available: $100 for a hole sponsor, $250 for a cart sponsor, $500 for a par sponsor, $750 for a birdie sponsor, and $1,000 for a hole-in-one sponsor. All sponsors will be acknowledged at the event. Mayor Emerita will take place at the The tournament Elizbeth Wilson Smoke Rise Country Club, 4900 Chedworth Dr., Stone Mountain. Registration begins at 9 a.m. All funds raised during this event will be used to fund free events hosted by the DBA: Concerts on the Square, Blue Sky Concerts, Bonfire and Marshmallow Roast, and others. Visit decaturdba.com for more information.
Blue Sky Concerts • Wednesdays at noon
Congratulations, Tim Martin! Martin Achieves Lifetime Membership in Million Dollar Roundtable Decatur resident and DBA Past President Tim Martin has achieved Lifetime membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), a coveted career milestone awarded to those who qualify for membership 10 years in a row. Membership in MDRT is a highly recognized mark of excellence and limited to only the most successful in the financial services profession. Martin was also recently recognized as a Top Advisor Under 40 by NAIFA-Atlanta Chapter. This award is given to advisors with extraordinary sales achievement in the areas of insurance and financial services. Martin is unique in that he has qualified for this honor every year it has been awarded. He is the founder and owner of Tim Martin Wealth Strategies, a local Decatur financial planning firm for the past 18 years. 16 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
May 9: Dusty Roads – Bluegrass May 23: Ol’ Matt Donald’s Farm – Blues, Folk, Americana
Concerts on the Square • Saturdays at 7 pm May 5: Joe Gransden Quintet – Jazz May 12: The Maxfield Trio – Rock and Roll, presented by the Decatur Youth Council May 19: Deep Blue Sun – Rock, Jam May 26: Ike Stubblefield – Motown, New Orleans Funk
Joe Grandsen
Ike Stubblefield
Maxfield Trio
Dusty Roads
Opening reception for the Decatur Arts Festival Fine Arts Exhibition at the Dalton Gallery in Agnes Scott College’s Dana Fine Arts Building 5:15 p.m. Networking reception 6 p.m.
Meeting Reminder
May 22
Program
Sponsored by Decatur Arts Alliance and Agnes Scott College. Parking is available in the garage at S. McDonough Street and College Avenue.
Decatur Events Little City Low Country Food Festival Sunday, May 6 Mark your calendar for the second annual “Little City Low Country Food Festival,” to be held in Decatur on Sunday, May 2 01 8 6. This family-friendly, chef-driven event features low-country-style food B E N E F IT I N G TH E G I V I N G K ITC H E N and WOODLANDS GARDEN prepared by Atlanta chefs. Sunday MAY 6 1:00-5:00PM Tickets are $30 and SWA NTO N WAY, D EC ATU R • B EH I N D B I G T E X include admission to the featuring delicious lowcountry bites from event, live music all afKIMBALL HOUSE STAPLEHOUSE THE PINEWOOD ternoon, and unlimited STEINBECKS WRECKING BAR THE OPTIMIST TWAIN’S REVIVAL TAIYO food tastings from these LEON’S GREATER GOOD BBQ BIG TEX 18 restaurants: Kimball MARY HOOPA’S HAMPTON + HUDSON KR STEAK BAR House, Twain’s, SteinRISING SON TAP becks, Wrecking Bar, Mary and an afternoon of Americana & Swing by Hoopa’s, Leon’s, Pinewood, WAITS & CO CALEB AND THE GENTS Rising Son, Greater Good d e ta i l s a n d t i c k e ts at $30 $35 lowcountryfoodfest.com AT door IN ADV BBQ, Staplehouse, The Optimist, Revival, Hampton + Hudson, Taiyo, The Brick Store Pub, Tap, KR Steak Bar, and Big Tex. Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for separate purchase. This event benefits The Giving Kitchen, an organization that provides emergency assistance to Atlanta-area restaurant workers facing an unanticipated crisis, and also Woodlands Garden, an urban preserve featuring eight acres of natural Piedmont forest right here in Decatur. The event will take place on Swanton Way behind Big Tex Cantina. For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit lowcountryfoodfest.com.
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Creative Adventures Day Camp at Holy Trinity Parish Preschool In July, Holy Trinity will offer half-day camps, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., for ages 2-7, with an early drop off option at 8 a.m. Camp themes include In the Kitchen (July 9-13), Little Artists (July 16-20), Rain Forest (July 23-27), and Super Me (July 30-Aug 3). Each week will feature a special guest. Call 404-371-1310 or visit holytrinitypreschool.org for more information.
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PAM HUGHES, realtor® Cell: 404-626-3604 Office: 404-250-9900
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• Personal Injury and Wrongful Death • 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 260 • Downtown Decatur 404-253-7860 • doug@carllp.com • www.carllp.com C&A-2col-ad-focus.indd 1
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 17
5/14/14 4:47 PM
Decatur Events Dancing Through the Decades
Decatur School of Ballet Celebrates 70th Season
Decatur School of Ballet celebrates 70 years with special performances of “Dancing Through the Decades.” The shows feature music from the past eight decades. Dancers age six through adult will present classical ballet, jazz, tap, modern dance, ballroom, and theatre dance. There will be four shows at the Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech, on Saturday, May
19, at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. Tickets are $14 each. Seating is reserved; visit 102 Church St. to select your seats through Tuesday, May 15. After that date, contact the Ferst Center Box Office (phone orders 404-894-9600 or online at arts. gatech.edu). Doors will open 30 minutes before each show and audience members can enjoy a slide show of photos from the
past 70 years. Plan to arrive early. In addition to the dance styles presented in the shows, the school offers “Mommy and Me” for age two and an adult caregiver, and Creative Movement for ages three and four. For additional information, visit decaturballet.com or call 404-378-3388.
Summer Camps at Sycamore Join Sycamore Place Gallery for art, theater and nature camps this summer. Morning and afternoon camps are available. In morning camp, children learn about artists’ lives and develop their own artistic abilities. Ms. Sylvia and friends offer a multimedia approach for ages 4-11 from 9 a.m. to noon, involving all the arts and nature, including art history, collage, painting, drawing, clay, sculpting and more. There is also at least one walking field trip per week, and guest artists often drop in. In afternoon camp, children join Miss Ladybug from 1 to 4 p.m. for lessons in garden arts, storytelling, theater and videography. For more information or to register, visit decaturartclasses.com, call 404-377-7747, or email ms.sylvia.cross@gmail.com.
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Decatur Events
Decatur events it’s a Date to Stay up late!
A
ll Decatur residents, and everybody else, too, are invited to walk in the Decatur Lantern Parade on the evening of Friday, May 15. This is one of those “the-more-the-merrier” events, so plan now to participate and be a part of helping to make this lantern parade memorable. Make your own lantern at home or come to a lantern-making workshop where supplies and guidance are provided. Find out where and when by visiting decaturlanternparade.com. To participate, line up at Color Wheel Studio at 508 E. Howard Ave. after 8 p.m. The parade steps off at 9 p.m. led by The Black Sheep Marching Ensemble and parade guru Rytter. The parade Gather atChantelle the starting point, Color Wheel where supplies and guidance are will wend its way to the community provided. Start dreaming up your Studio, 508 E. Howard Ave., after 8 p.m., bandstand in to front the Old Courtlantern now. Sign up for all sorts and parade theofdowntown square house on thethe square. of lantern-making workshops – along with Black Sheep Marching The parade is sponsored by Color lantern hats, illuminated parasols, Ensemble. Wheel Studio, Arts Alliance, globe lanterns, and more – hosted Make yourDecatur own lantern at home Decatur Education Foundation, workshop and by Chantelle Rytter at Color Wheel or attend a lantern-making the Decatur Development Authority.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Join the Lantern Parade May 11 • 9 pm
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Studio in the two weeks preceding the parade. For more information and lantern-making resources visit decaturlanternparade.com. The lantern parade is sponsored by Decatur Education Foundation, Decatur Arts Alliance, and Color Wheel Studio.
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• Top 1% producer, Atlanta Board of Realtors (2009 – 2014) • More than 125 homes sold in City of Decatur since 2009 • More than 260 homes sold overall since 2009
chip@kellerknapp.com • 678.429.9731 ChipWallaceRealEstate.com
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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.
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 19
Decatur Events Harmony School Enrolling Now for 2018-19 The Harmony School of Decatur, 701 W. Howard Ave. is now enrolling for the 2018-19 school year and invites the community to attend an open house on Monday, May 21, 1-2 p.m. The school is a preparatory preschool, serving children 2-5 years old since 2008. It provides a balanced learning experience in which children learn math, language, science and Spanish, and also enjoy gardening, yoga, movement, life skills, and more. For more infomation, visit harmonyschoolofdecatur.com or call 404-452-1709.
20 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
School News Decatur Bands Rock the Night Away for Westchester Elementary The Squirrelheads claimed the coveted Golden Wolverine trophy at Westchester Elementary School’s third annual Battle of the Bands, presented by Decatur CoWorks and Natalie Gregory – Keller Williams. Two of the band members, Lori and Eric Murphy, are Westchester parents and owners of Firehouse Guitars and Music. The sold-out event, which was held at Avondale Towne Cinema, featured five local bands that battled it out for the kids of Westchester, including Flock of Eagles, Transmit and Receive, Kickin’ Edgar, The Squirrelheads, and The Benders. Visit WestchesterRocks.org for more photos of the event, courtesy of Greta High of From the Hip Photography.
24-hour emergency pet care and board-certified veterinary specialists. All under one woof. 625 Dekalb Industrial Way, Decatur 30033 www.sfvs.com 404-924-2000
MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 21
School News
Minivan for Mentoring
Working for Strong Communities since 1979. A v o n dA l e e s tAt e s
d e c At u r
$599,999 9BR/9.5BA
$339,900 2BR/2BA
3210 Wiltshire Drive Erika C. Brown 404-784-7844 erikacbrown@gmail.com
137 Ridgeland Avenue Erika C. Brown 404-784-7844 erikacbrown@gmail.com
Mid Century Modern w/inlaw suite on 1.3 acre lot. Requires extensive renovation or tear down and subdivide into 2 lots. Opportunity for Buyer or Builder w/vision. Sold “As Is”. Priced for land value.
Updated, open concept, gourmet kitchen w/deluxe Bosch appliances, screened porch, tankless water heater & storage shed, bedrooms w/ensuite baths. Walk to Glen Creek Nature Preserve and downtown Decatur.
www.adamsrealtors.com 404-688-1222 22 | Decatur Focus • MAY 2018
The Decatur Education Foundation (DEF) has purchased a minivan in support of its Opportunity Partnership mentoring program. The partnership addresses the opportunity gap that exists in our community. The program pairs local third-graders with adult mentors who meet with them regularly to learn about their interests and then connect them with opportunities that will help them develop useful life skills and discover their passions. The program now has two cohorts of nine students each. Until now, the groups’ activities were limited to locales that were within walking distance. With the purchase of a new minivan, an entire cohort can explore beyond Decatur and attend group activities in the greater Atlanta area. The purchase of the van was made possible through a match grant from Decatur City Church, a local church affiliated with North Point Ministries.
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Hunting the Elusive Easter Egg The Decatur Business Association’s annual Easter Egg Hunt never lasts very long, but it’s always a blast for families with young children. This year’s late-March event was no exception . #easteregghunt #blinkandyoumissit #allthecandy
Wonder at West Ponce Movie Night Premiere
Lots of Decatur residents spent the evening of Friday, March 23, sitting in the middle of West Ponce de Leon Avenue, watching “Wonder,” starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson, on a huge inflatable screen for the city’s first West Ponce Movie Night. Hundreds of friendly faces mingled, munched, and browsed area shops before the movie began shortly after nightfall. #westponce #underthestars
#movienight MAY 2018 • Decatur Focus | 23
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Kick off the Art Festival with music, food and drinks at our 10th Anniversary Celebration! Decatur Square. Friday, May 25. 7pm to 10pm
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