January-March 2017
Walk and Roll to School
March 8 Decatur Active Living • Children & Youth Services
Walk and Bike Your Way to a Healthy 2017 Decatur Active Living and the City of Decatur offer many opportunities for you to stay healthy and fit in the coming year. In addition to our year-round schedule of athletics for all ages, we offer opportunities to walk and bike. 50+ Walks set out from Decatur Recreation Center every Wednesday at 10 a.m., and cover three miles around the city. Third Sunday Strolls and Fourth Thursday “Bright at Night” Walks offer walking tours of the city led by members of the Pedestrian Advisory Committee as well as occasional special guests. Third Friday Bike Rides occur from March through October. Join Decatur staff for a six-mile ride through the city. Starts at 6:30 p.m. at Decatur Recreation Center. NEW! Silver Spokes classes are held on Thursday mornings for those who have never biked or have not biked in many years. Participants ride adult tricycles to regain their biking skills. Bike Rodeos will be held four times during 2017 in various parts of the city to teach bike safety skills to children in the community. Walk with a Doc around the city and enjoy a casual question-and-answer session with a medical pro.
See page 11
3 athletics 6 tennis 8 active adults 9 after school 14 calendar & open gym 16 youth classes
Touch-a-Truck March 25 See page 5
Active News
Playbook Children and Youth Services Division
New Pavilions and Concession Facilities at McKoy and Oakhurst Parks
C
onstruction is ongoing at McKoy Park and Oakhurst Park on new pavilions and concession buildings that will open in the spring. The construction projects include new bathrooms that can be used year-round, new sidewalks, new storm drainage, maintenance space, new concession stands and new pavilions to host birthday parties, family reunions, and team and/or school celebrations. McKoy Park is at 534 McKoy St. and Oakhurst Park is at 307 Feld Ave.
231 Sycamore St. • P.O. Box 220 • Decatur, GA 30031 404-378-1082 • fax 404-378-1281 decaturga.com/cys
Claire Miller....................................................................... director Nancy Brune...............................................assistant director Glenda Lee............................................program supervisor Lillie Johnson..............................administrative assistant Rebecca Aulph......................................................site director Lartesha Chaney..................................................site director Caudieu Cook........................................................site director Rashad Crowell.....................................................site director Ashton Hudson....................................................site director Danielle Perry.........................................................site director Kiara Smith...............................................................site director Ashley Thorpe........................................................site director CJ Yancy.....................................................................site director
Decatur Active Living Division 231 Sycamore St. • P.O. Box 220 • Decatur, GA 30031 404-377-0494 • fax 404-370-4130 decaturga.com • beactivedecatur.com
Greg White...........................................................................director Cheryl Burnette...........................................assistant director Athletic Services
Stacy Green.............................................program supervisor Carlos Jordan.....................assistant program supervisor Jarrod Lindsay...................assistant program supervisor Recreation Services
Lee Williams.............................................program supervisor Sara Holmes............................................program supervisor Portia Langley ......................Ebster program superivisor Anthony Bethel..............................................program leader Demarcus Bundrage ..................................program leader Artesha Chaney..............................................program leader Jonathan Holloman.....................................program leader Jerdarius Malcolm.. .....................................program leader Jalen McGlotten.............................................program leader Tennis/Aquatics Staff
Jabari Cole............................................... program supervisor Arnie Ahn............................................................program leader Thanh Doan......................................................program leader Sharon Hulette................................................program leader Kyle Morton.......................................................program leader Nia Willis...............................................................program leader Support Staff
Virginia Atchison.........................administrative assistant Juanita Tyson........................................................morning clerk Eugenia Kelley-Minor......................................evening clerk Gwendolyn George..........................................evening clerk Active Living Board Members
Clay Scarborough, Chair • Bill Adams Wendy Childers • Pete Duitsman • Michael Harbin Adam Pinsley • Miriam Vos • Kelly Walsh
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Playbook
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
Contact Portia Langley • 678-553-6563, portia.langley@decaturga.com
Youth Classes
Playgroups, Golf, Gardening, Fencing and More for Ages 5-18 Decatur Active Living offers a variety of youth classes for ages 5-18. Participants can explore new activities, learn new skills and share new experiences with others.
Beginners Sewing The one-hour classes are designed to spark creativity in junior designers as they learn about fashion. Every project teaches a new design technique while the junior designers express their points of view. All materials are included – you just show up ready to sew. All projects are age and skill appropriate.
Decatur Playgroups Looking for a warm play space? Make arrangements to bring your playgroup to Decatur Recreation Center or Ebster Recreation Center. Decatur Active Living supplies the space. Parents, bring the children and have your usual playgroup fun in the warmth of our gym. This space is free to Decatur residents and we have space for you to serve lunch to your group. Call 404-377-0494 or email lee.williams@decaturga.com to schedule a time.
Decatur Fencing Fencing is a European-originated Olympic sport based on the art of swordplay. For new students classes will concentrate on providing an enjoyable epee/foil fencing experience, improving physical fitness, and creating the foundation needed to understand and appreciate the sport. More advanced, motivated students will have the opportuni-
Bricks 4 Kidz This after-school activity offers a strong foundation in math and science while fostering free thinking and creativity in children. The Bricks4Kidz program provides a fun and exciting hands-on approach to learning concepts of engineering, architecture, and physics through the use of Lego bricks. Children will work in a team environment to build selfconfidence and social interaction skills while having fun. ty to continue studying epee/foil at a higher level. All participants should dress in loose athletic clothing. Protective equipment will be provided each class.
Ebster Garden Club This youth garden club is a hands-on, fun environment where students take part in every aspect of gardening. They start seedlings, dig and loosen soil, plant the seedlings in the ground, and water the garden. Finally, the students harvest the fruits and vegetables of their labor and learn how to turn them into delicious meals. Every few weeks, we host a garden club party so kids can eat what they have grown.
Karate A holistic approach to learning the art of karate. Registration deadline: before the first class of each month. For more information contact Adesi Brown, adeis2274@comcast. net or 404-729-1025, or Sensei McCormick at alouisemccormick@gmail.com.
Kids in Fashion Youth Sewing One-hour classes are designed to spark the creativity of junior designers while they learn about fashion. Every project teaches a new design technique while the junior designers express their point of view. All materials are included. You just show up ready to sew. All projects are age and skill appropriate.
JANUARY-MARCH 2017 •
Playbook
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Youth Classes
Contact Portia Langley • 678-553-6563, portia.langley@decaturga.com
Project Inspire
Theater for the young
Youth Platform
For boys ages 13-18 This male teen mentorship program is designed to encourage, motivate, and inspire the next generation of young men through forums, workshops, and community service events, and to help them transition into adulthood. The project’s mission is to improve academic achievement, self-esteem, and social skills.
A class for children 5 and under that activates creativity and engages the senses to bring to life a story, song, or language activity. Each 30-minute class will have the children singing, dancing, dressing up and participating in minidramas that build and exercise life skills.
This youth middle school program offers students the opportunity to speak on issues and concerns they face every day. Students will learn their inner talents and the importance of living a positive lifestyle. Each week participants will have a group session with topics including self-esteem, planning for the future, family, peer pressure and current events. There will also be physical activity after each session encouraging participants to be active and live a healthy lifestyle.
TODDLERS Start Smart Golf • 3-5 yrs A developmentally appropriate introductory golf program in four sessions. Children get a positive and safe first golf experience and begin to develop skills for future golf participation. Registration is accepted on a first-come basis.
Toddler Open Gym Thursdays • Ebster Gym • 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Toddlers can play on the gym floor with balls, toys, and parents during winter months. Free and open to City of Decatur residents.
Get a Li’l Active! Looking for more toddler-friendly options? Decatur offers athletics specifically designed for your li’l ones. Read about Li’l Kickers and Li’l Sluggers on page 6
Magical Mornings Entertainment • 2-5 yrs School groups, don’t miss out on this fun entertainment for your young people. Storytelling, music, and movement are included. Groups of 10 or more must make reservations and pre-pay. Call 404-377-0494.
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• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
Youth Classes and Activities At-a-Glance Class/Activity
WebTrac. No
Age
Time
Day
Session
Fee/ Nonresident Registration
Instructor
Location
Fencing
342010-01 Jan. 342010-02 Feb.
8-17
6:30-7:30 pm
W
Monthly
$80/$95
Ongoing
William Chase
Decatur Recreation Center
Karate
342010-32 Jan. 342010-33 Feb.
7-18
6:30-8 pm 10 am
M S
Monthly
$40/$55
Ongoing
Adesi Brown
Decatur Recreation Center
Kids in Fashion Youth Sewing
342010-11 Jan.
8-13
6:15-7:15 pm
Th
Ongoing
$75/$90
Ongoing
Cynthia
Decatur Recreation Center
Ebster Programs At-a-Glance Class/Activity
Age
Time
Day
Session
Residents
Registration
Instructor
Beginners Sewing
8-13
6:15-7:15 pm
Tu
Ongoing
Free
Ongoing
Cynthia
Bricks 4 Kidz
5-12
6-7:30 pm
Tu
Quarterly
Free
Ongoing
Bricks 4 Kidz
Ebster Garden Club
5-17
Noon-2 pm
Sat
Ongoing
Free
Ongoing
Yvonne Hill
Hip Hop Dance
8-12 13-17
6:15-7:15 pm 7:15-8:15 pm
M
Ongoing
Free
Ongoing
Zole Summer
Project Inspire
13-17
7:30-8:45 pm
Th/biweekly
Ongoing
Free
Ongoing
Project Inspire
Youth Platform
13-16
6:45-8 pm
W
Ongoing
Free
Ongoing
Teresa Davis
Toddler Programs At-a-Glance Class/Activity
WebTrac
Magical Mornings
Age
Time
Day
Session
Fee/Nonresident
Registration
2-5
11 am-noon
W
Jan. 18 Feb. 8 March 15 April 19
$2/$4
None
Instructor
Location Decatur Recreation Center
Li’l Kickers
242010-07 242010-08
3-5
5:30-6:30 pm
M/W T/Th
2/27-3/22 2/28-3/23
$55/$70
2/1-2/25
Derante Stephen Adair Park Teresa Davis
Li’l Sluggers
342010-09 342010-10
3-5
5:30-6:30 pm
M/W T/Th
5/1-5/24 5/2-5/25
$55/$70
4/1-4/30
Derante Stephen Adair Park Teresa Davis
Li’l Warriors
242010-12
3-5
5:30-6:30 pm
M/W
3/27-4/27
$55/$70
3/1-3/25
Derante Stephen Adair Park
Start Smart Golf
242010-08
3-5
3-3:45 pm
Tu
1/31-2/21
$55/$70
1/1-1/30
Lee Williams
Decatur Recreation Center
Theater for the Young
342010-13
0-5
11-11:45 am
M
1/23-5/15
$65/$75
Ongoing
Rachel Meggs
Decatur Recreation Center
Touch-A-Truck
Saturday, March 25 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: TBD Children of all ages can see, touch and explore their favorite trucks and other equipment on wheels. City of Decatur and DeKalb County vehicles including fire trucks, dump trucks, tractors, motorcycles, police cars and others will be on display. Ride your bike to the event and have it registered by the Decatur Police. Rain date: April 25 If you have a vehicle you would like to display, contact Cheryl Burnette, 678-553-6541 or cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com. The event is free to the community.
Earn A Bike This program is designed for kids who are interested in bicycling and do not have access to a bicycle. Participants will learn how to ride a bike, ABC quick check, how to be seen, road etiquette, and bike maintenance. Earn a bike at the end of the four-week program. Meets on Tuesdays during March, 4-5 p.m.
Bicycle Rodeo Come join us for a fun day of bike safety. Each participant will learn bike safety, ABC quick check, bike maintenance, and complete an obstacle course. We will offer two Bike Rodeos – March 11 and May 20. Times and locations to be determined.
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Athletics
Contact Stacy Green 678-553-6549 • stacy.green@decaturga.com
Action, Sportsmanship, and Fun Coed League Soccer • 6-11 yrs Coed teams are divided into 6-7, 8-9 and 10-11 divisions. All levels and skill ranges are welcome. Participants will have a one-hour practice during the week, beginning the week of March 6. Games are on Saturdays.
Youth Baseball/Tee Ball 5-12 yrs Hit a home run with Youth Baseball and Tee Ball. Teams are divided into 5-6, 7-8 and 9-12 divisions. Join the Opening Day Parade and games on June 3 at Oakhurst Park.
Bring Your Stick to the Lacrosse Game Boys Lacrosse • grades K-8 Still the fastest game on two feet. Leagues are offered for players in kindergarten through middle school. Players must provide their own equipment, including a lacrosse stick, helmet, gloves and mouth guard. Teams have two practices per week at local school or park fields and will play both home and away games.
Girls Lacrosse • grades K-8 Cradle, shoot, and score! Leagues are offered for players in kindergarten through middle school. Players must provide their own equipment including lacrosse stick, helmet, gloves, goggles and mouth guard. Teams have two practices per week at local school or park fields and will play both home and away games.
COACHES NEEDED
Volunteer to coach! It’s a great opportunity to have fun and be a role model. By giving just a few hours a week, you can help children develop self-esteem. All volunteers are required to attend a free workshop for certification and complete the background check. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer coach, contact Stacy Green, 404-377-0494 or stacy.green@decaturga.com.
Li’l Athletes Let’s move early with Li’l Kickers, Li’l Sluggers and Mini Soccer. These introductory instructional programs are for girls and boys ages 3-5. Li’l Kickers and Li’l Sluggers are four-week courses designed to develop basic soccer and baseball skills. Spaces are limited for these programs.
Li’l Kickers Soccer • 3-5 yrs A four-week introductory course designed to develop basic soccer skills. Space is limited. Registration is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Feb. 1.
Li’l Sluggers • 3-5 yrs A four-week introductory course designed to develop basic baseball skills. Space is limited. Registration is accepted on a firstcome, first-served basis beginning April 1.
Li’l warriors • 3-5 yrs For youth with special needs. This new four-week sports program will help develop children into li’l warriors as they test their 6
Playbook
strength, endurance and balance. Participants are introduced to a new sport each week.
Mini Soccer • 4-6 yrs Mini soccer is an instructional program held on Saturdays for 4-6 year olds. Each Satur-
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
day, participants will have one 30-minute practice and one 30-minute game. Teams consist of eight players. Everyone gets to play. All games and practices are held on Saturdays at Glenlake Park. Please note that Mini Soccer is available for 4-year-olds who have completed one season of Li’l Kickers.
Youth Sports At-a-Glance Sport
Ages
WebTrac No.
Fee/Nonresident Fee
Registration
Parents Meeting
Practice
Games
Site
Baseball/Tee Ball
5-6 7-8 9-10 11-12
132010-01 132011-01 132012-01 132013-01
$130/$165
4/1-5/6
5/13
5/15
6/3-7/27
Oakhurst
Coed Soccer
6-7 8-9 10-11
332031-01 332032-01 332033-01
$130/$165
1/21-2/11
3/4
3/6
3/18-5/20
Westchester Ebster B&G Club
Lacrosse Boys
K-3 4-5 gr 6-7 gr 8th gr
332060-01 332060-02 332060-03 332060-04
$130/$165
1/3-1/21
2/6
3/10-5/13
ERC B&G Club
Lacrosse Girls
K-3 4-5gr 6-7 gr 8th gr
332061-04 332061-01 332061-02 332061-03
$130/$165
1/3-1/21
2/6
3/10-5/13
ERC B&G Club
Li’l Kickers (M/W) Li’l Kickers (T/Th)
3-5 3-5
342010-07 342010-08
$55/$70
2/1-2/25
2/27-3/22 2/28- 3/23
Adair Park
Li’l Sluggers (M/W) Li’l Sluggers (T/Th)
3-5 3-5
342010-09 342010-10
$55/$70
4/1-4/30
5/1-5/24 5/2-5/25
Glenlake Park
Li’l Warriors (M/W)
3-5
342010-12
$55/$70
3/1-3/25
3/27-4/27
Adair Park
Mini Soccer
4-6
332030-01
$55/$70
1/21-2/11
Adult Softball Decatur Active Living keeps the fun going, even after we’ve become adults. Join the Decatur coed and men’s softball league this spring. Decatur businesses and neighborhoods are welcome to enter into the league.
3/4
Glenlake Park
Softball League Age
Registration Fee
Game Day Schedule
Coed Softball Men’s Softball Women’s Softball
3/8-4/27 3/8-4/27 3/8-4/27
M/W T/Th Friday
18+ 18+ 18+
$450 $450 $450
5/15-8/23 5/16-8/24 5/19-8/25
Neighborhood Coed Softball Tournament Our City – One Neighborhood Saturday, May 13 • 11 a.m. McKoy Field Decatur neighborhood associations are invited to participate in the annual Neighborhood Softball Tournament. You’ll never really get to know your neighbors until you’ve played as a neighborhood team. Decatur Active Living will provide hotdogs and punch. Teams are coed and must have at least four women on the field at all times. For additional information, contact Stacy Green, 678-553-6549 or stacy.green@ decaturga.com.
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Tennis
Active Adults and Seniors
Contact Jabari Cole Contact Tracie Sanchez • 678-553-6559, tracie.sanchez@decaturga.com 404-377-7231 • jabari.cole @decaturga.com
Improve Your Swing or Join a Team Tennis classes and drills are held at Glenlake Tennis Center and are priced per session unless otherwise indicated. See the At-a-Glance table for complete details about fees, dates and times. Register in advance at the Glenlake Tennis Center unless otherwise indicated. Call the tennis center at 404-377-7231. Decatur has nine lighted courts dedicated to tennis action: Glenlake Tennis Courts 1121 Church St. • Five Courts
Court Fees $2/hr, $2.50/hr after 6 p.m. Nonresidents: $3/hr, $3.50/hr after 6 p.m.
Scott Park Courts 231 Sycamore St. • Two Courts
All courts are free to residents before 6 p.m. on weekdays. Residents must register at Glenlake Tennis Center for free court time. Proof of residency (drivers license, utility bill) may be required.
Oakhurst Park Courts 307 Feld Ave. • Two Courts
Adult Tennis Adult Beginner Whether you have never picked up a racket before or you are a seasoned veteran looking to make your strokes better, this tennis course is the best value in metro Atlanta and covers forehands, backhands, proper tennis movement, serves, overheads, and the basics of singles and doubles play.
Adult Drills (Drop in anytime) The drills are designed so that adults at all skill levels are sure to hit lots of balls,
have lots of fun, and get a wonderful workout. Each drill session ends with a game of the “Wave,” which will keep you coming back for more tennis.
Team Tennis Glenlake Tennis Center is home to a large number of ALTA and USTA teams. If you are looking to join a tennis team, you can call the tennis center with your name, phone number, and current skill level. If teams are looking for players we will gladly pass on your contact information. The best way to find a team could be a visit to Friday night drills. They are frequented by some of the team captains and if you are unsure of your current level, one of the tennis pros can help you assess your skills. For more information on Team Tennis call 404-377-7231.
Youth Tennis Beginning Tennis • 7-15 yrs The focus of each hour is proper stroke development and movement. Each session is usually concluded with a game that is sure to have your kids coming back for more.
Munchkin Tennis • 4-6 yrs Munchkin tennis is offered all year. The instructors use backdoor learning techniques and games to teach the children proper stroke form and footwork while keeping the major focus of the class on fun.
Tennis Academy • 7-18 yrs The tennis academy is for juniors who would like to take their game to the next level. Advanced Tennis is for juniors looking to play serious competitive tennis and during each session the focus will be advanced stroke training, movement, physical fitness, and match strategy. Each session will include 30 minutes of stroke instruction, 30 minutes of drills, and 30 minutes of supervised play. Contact Jabari Cole at Glenlake Tennis Center to reserve your spot.
Tennis At-a-Glance Skill Level
Age
Day
Time
Fee/ nonresident Fee
Adult Beginner
adult
Th
6-7 pm
$75/$100
Adult Drills
adult
F
6:30-8 pm
$10/$15
Adult Drills
adult
Su
9:30-11 am $10/$15
Beginning Tennis 7-15 yrs
F
5-6 pm
$5/$7
Munchkins
4-6 yrs
Tu
4-5 pm
$5/$7
Tennis Academy
7-18 yrs
Tu/Th
4:40-6 pm
$15/$20
Note: All tennis programs are conducted at Glenlake Tennis Center. 8
Playbook
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
Contact Sara Holmes 678-553-6559 • sara.holmes@decaturga.com
NEW! 50+ Walks Walking is a low-intensity activity that almost everyone can do. Walking is fun. It provides opportunities for social interaction. It helps us relax or energize. It’s an easy way to stay healthy in mind and body.
Aerobic Dance Exercise Shape up with LZ aerobics classes, including dance exercise and senior aerobics. For more information visit lzaerobics.com or call 678-380-3861. Registration is ongoing.
Afridancercise (Ebster) This unique body workout combines deep breathing techniques, stretching, and low-to-medium aerobics mixed with traditional West African dance steps. Over time, as choreography develops, interested participants may perform at other venues to music provided by professional drummers.
American Sign Language 2 (Class for Level 2 Students) Students can increase their vocabulary focusing on family and activities in the community. Deaf culture is a part of the class. Students will meet Deaf speakers and use their sign language during Deaf community activities held in Decatur.
Badminton (Ebster) Open play badminton for all skill levels. Join the fun and meet new friends at Ebster Gym.
Body Conditioning and Zumba Fun and effective classes by licensed and trained instructors. Encouraging group fitness environment. Appealing to all fitness levels. You’re guaranteed to tone, strengthen, burn calories and build endurance!
Active Adults
an Audrey Grant-certified Better Bridge Teacher, and his wife, Carol, assists at the tables. Class includes 25 minutes of discussion and then 65 minutes of play with Audrey Grant’s selected hands.
NEW! Email Basics: Learn how to set up a web-based account, send messages and attachments. Mouse, typing skills and some internet experience is required.
NEW! Chair Yoga (Ebster)
Functional Exercises
Chair yoga is designed as a gentle stretch class. All moves are done from a chair or standing using the chair for balance. Participants never go to a mat on the floor. Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes. Music is slow. Smiles are abundant.
A seated senior aerobics class for those with mobility or balance challenges. Includes music and a workout using elastic straps, small weights and Swiss balls.
Futsal (Indoor Soccer) Drop in and play on Sunday. Futsal is a variant of indoor soccer, played on a smaller field with a heavier ball.
NEW! Computer and Keyboard Basics Learn the basic parts of a computer, basic terminology and how to use a mouse. No prior computer experience necessary but ability to type helpful.
Dao Yin/QiGong We learn simple and ancient movements that control breath to combat fatigue, reduce stress, and improve immune response. The class is accessible to anyone and is practiced both standing and on the ground. Please bring a mat.
Group Harp Music Class Artz for the Harp provides beginner group harp classes to students of all ages. No prior music experience is necessary. AFTH will provide harps and instructional materials for weekly classes at no additional charge. Learn to play the harp and reap the benefits, such as improved short-term memory, stress relief, lowered blood pressure, increased oxygenation, and pain relief.
Intro to Qigong/Tai Chi
Drawing and Painting with Watercolors Learn from traditional and experimental techniques to draw, drag and splatter. Mix colors and values to create unusual and innovative designs for pleasure while we toast with our tea. Bring a tea mug, watercolor paper, primary watercolors and a flat brush, a round brush and a sponge brush.
This class is for beginners. Emphasis is on the health benefits of an ongoing Qigong/ Tai Chi practice. Goals are to improve balance, reduce blood pressure, improve self-esteem, increase energy and improve breathing. The class meets twice a week — attend one or both.
Bridge Club Get your trump ready, grab your tallies and make your bids – Bridge Club has a table waiting for you. Bring a snack. Coffee is provided. Call 404-377-0494 for a reservation for your foursome.
Bridge Lessons – Defenders play Learn new techniques for bidding and play using Audrey Grant’s Hearts Series as the textbook (available from the instructor for $10.50). Instructor David Warlick is
JANUARY-MARCH 2017 •
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Active Adults and Seniors
Contact Tracie Sanchez • 678-553-6559, tracie.sanchez@decaturga.com
drills that help maintain balance and support for those with mobility challenges.
Table Tennis Participate in a sport you can play for a lifetime. All skill levels are welcome.
new! Tai Chi Flow
NEW! John Verlenden’s Open Yoga This class is open to beginners and intermediate yoga practitioners, with the understanding that the class will present a sequence of yoga postures and breath control with a meditative aspect included throughout. Participants should bring a yoga mat (available online and at local yoga studios such as Decatur Hot Yoga and Pilates). Any health conditions should be made known to the instructor.
Karate A holistic approach to learning the art of karate. A preview of the class is required prior to registration. This is an all ages class (adults and children together). Registration deadline: before the first class of each month. For more information contact Adesi Brown, adesi2274@comcast.net or 404-729-1025, or Sensei McCormic, alouisemccormick@gmail.com.
Lunch and Learn Join us for Lunch and Learn every fourth Friday. Stick around after senior aerobics class or pop in to join us as we host speakers that include health and wellness professionals. Bring a brown bag lunch, put it in the fridge, attend your senior aerobics class on the fourth Friday – and a 30-minute talk follows. It’s free and there is no need to register. Meet us in our café.
See the At-a-Glance table on page 12 for registration details. 10
Playbook
Pickleball (EBSter) Pickleball is a fun racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. Two or four players use a solid paddle to hit a plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball, over a net on a badminton-size court. Grab a pair of tennis shoes and start playing the fastest growing sport in America.
Quickbooks Workshop What gets measured gets managed. Learn how to use Quickbooks the right way and save lots of time. Includes a comprehensive manual, a 15-minute pre-seminar consultation, a half-hour on-site visit, snacks and drinks. Visit systemhappy.com.
Scott Park Community Garden Join our gardeners for social, educational, and friendly gardening year round. The club is led by several master gardeners and hosts social gatherings during the year as well as garden workdays.
new! Senior Aerobics (EBSter) Upbeat aerobics. A chair can be utilized as well as a ball. There is more movement than in a chair yoga class. Participants should be able to stand and move around easily. Participants wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes. This class is low impact and low intensity.
Silver Spokes (EBSter) Silver Spokes is a pilot senior bicycling program using tricycles to learn to ride or get back in the saddle. Trike along with several
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
This class is for intermediate students of Tai Chi/Qigong. Instructor permission is needed to register for this class. Emphasis is on learning the Tai Chi Yang Style 24 forms practice. Goals are the same as the introductory class and in addition this class will deepen the level of practice in order to feel energy flow. To register, contact Stephen Dorage, instructor, 404-617-0071 or sdorage@mindspring.com.
Tai Chi for Seniors An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Whatever your condition, Tai Chi principles can be applied to a custom set of exercises to help improve your quality of life.
Volleyball Drop in and play in our recreational league, started by three ringleaders who know the net and are ready to teach and play. We have two nets set up on Sundays and staff on site to manage the flow and help you get volleyball game on.
Walk With a Doc A free weekly walking group. We’ll have a professional with us each month to chat with walkers and answer questions casually about hot topics in the active aging population. All walks are co-led by Active Living staff.
Yoga – Chair/Mat Learn proper efficient breathing techniques while learning more about yourself from the inside out. In the practice of yoga you will tone, stretch, and strengthen the muscles and the organs – creating health and wellness for the entire system. Class is suitable for persons with mobility issues and can be practiced on the mat and/or with a chair. Please bring your own mat.
Contact Sara Holmes • 678-553-6559, sara.holmes@decaturga.com
Active Adults
Special Events for Seniors Understanding and Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits Thursday, Jan. 17, 7 p.m. Decatur Recreation Center A great resource for anyone who plans to retire in the next 15 years and wants to learn when it’s best to start benefits. Topics include: How your benefits are calculated, spousal and ex-spousal benefits, survivor benefits, potential taxation of benefits, early retirement and delayed retirement strategies, and more. It’s possible to increase your lifetime benefits by more than $125,000 or more with the right strategy. This is an education-only course provided by Robert Cox, RICP, CFEi, a professional retirement planner.
Compassionate Atlanta Thursday, Feb. 2 • 10:30 a.m. Decatur Recreation Center Join us for a conversation about compassion with facilitators from Compassionate Atlanta and your fellow participants. Some of the ideas we will consider are the meaning of compassion; whether we see ourselves or society as compassionate; what it takes to become more compassionate with
ourselves and others; and how we want to express our compassion.
CPR/First Aid The City of Decatur Fire Department instructs CPR/first aid classes. Contact Ninetta Volante at ninetta.volante@ decaturga.com or 404-373-5092 for more information.
World Tai Chi-Qigong Day Saturday, April 29 • 10 a.m. Let’s gather in Decatur to practice Tai ChiQigong together. This is a worldwide event, open to everyone. (The location to be announced.)
Picnic in the Park
Valentine’s Ice Cream Social Tuesday, Feb. 14 • 11 a.m. Decatur Recreation Center Help celebrate the season of love. WellCare Health Plans will help us host our first Valentine’s Ice Cream Social. Ice cream will be provided and we will have crafts to decorate for our loved ones.
Senior Game Day Wednesday, March 22 • 11 a.m. Decatur Recreation Center Remember dominoes, checkers, chess, bid wiz and scrabble? Well, ask any elder and they can show you how to get your game on. We’ll gather this spring at Ebster Recreation Center to play some games and create a senior social outing. Lunch will be provided.
Safe Routes to School
Wednesday, May 10 • 11 a.m. Glenlake Park Join us at Glenlake Park for our senior program expo. We will have vendors and lunch will be provided. Please wear your sneakers. Join us for activities, and lunch at noon.
National Senior Health and Fitness Day Wednesday, May 31 • 11 a.m. Decatur Recreation Center The event’s goals are to promote the importance of regular physical activity and to showcase what local organizations are doing to improve the health and fitness of older adults in their communities. Save the date and look for more information to come.
City of Decatur schools participate in Georgia Walk and Roll to School Day as part of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program. Parents, school personnel and community members walk and bike with students to generate awareness of the fun of walking and biking and physical activity. Did you know that Decatur’s SRTS program includes all six elementary schools, Renfroe Middle School, College Heights ELC and St. Thomas More School? Each school participates in the Georgia Walk and Roll Day as well as monthly walk and rolls at each school. Decatur has had an active SRTS program since 2005. For more information contact cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com or 678-553-6541.
Georgia Walk & Roll to School Day Wednesday, march 8
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Active Adults
Contact Sara Holmes • 678-553-6559, sara.holmes@decaturga.com
Active Adults At-a-Glance WEBTRAC NO./ WebTrac No./
CLASS TITLE
12
REGISTRATION DETAILS
TIME
DAY
50+ Walks Aerobic Dance
Drop in LZaerobics.com
Afridancercise (Ebster) American Sign Language 2 Badminton (Ebster) Starts in April Body Conditioning & Zumba Bridge Club Bridge Lessons Chair Yoga (Ebster) Community Garden Computer & Keyboard Basics Dao Yin/Qigong Drawing & Painting w/Watercolors (SPG) E-Mail Basics Functional Exercises 4 Seniors Futsal – Indoor Soccer Group Harp Music Class Intro to Qigong/Tai Chi
344020-01 adesi2274@comcast.net Drop in 344020-05 Nancy, 404-284-1549 344020-07 344020-47 544010-10 344020-08 nilo@mindspring.com 344020-27 344020-09 LZaerobics.com Drop in 344020-32 sdorage@mindspring.com
John Verlenden’s Open Yoga Karate
344020-43 342010-32
10 am 9 am 5:30 pm 12 pm 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 5:30 pm 10 am 1:30 pm 1 pm 10 am 10 am 7 pm 6:30-8 pm 10 am 10:15 am 2:30 pm 5 pm 6:30 pm 9 am 6-7:15 pm 6:45 pm 10 am
TU/TH M/W/F M/W M/W TU TH TU/TH 2nd, 4th TH M TH 3rd SA Feb. 7 W TH Feb. 9 M/W/F SU TU MO SA M/W M SA
Lunch & Learn Pickleball (Ebster)
Drop in, Kitchen Café Drop in
Quickbooks Workshop Senior Aerobics (Ebster) Silver Spokes (Ebster) Table Tennis
systemhappy.com 344020-52 344020-23 Drop in
Tai Chi Flow Tai Chi for Seniors Understanding & Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits Volleyball Walk With a Doc Yoga – Chair/Mat
sdorage@mindspring.com 344020-10 344020-42
11:30 am 11:15 am 2:30 pm 9 am 2 pm 9-10:30 am 7-9:45 pm 10 am-2 pm 11 am 10 am 7 pm
4th F T W 3rd TH TH TH TH SU SA TU/TH Jan. 17
Drop in Drop in 344020-15
6:30 pm 10 am 10:30 am
SU 2nd SA TU
Playbook
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
FEE/ FEE
NONRESIDENT FEE
INSTRUCTOR
FREE $80/85 (10 weeks) $70/75 seniors $15/30 $250 plus $25 reg. fee FREE/$5 $35/40 FREE/$2 $2/4 class $15/20 $25 per year FREE $60/75 $95 FREE $2/4 class FREE/$2 $40/50 $60/75
Staff Bobbie Elzey
$30/45 $40/$55 (1) $50/$65 (2) $60/$75 (3) FREE FREE/$3
John Verlenden Adesi Brown
$147/162 $15/20 $5 per class FREE/$2
Kristin Diver Linda Mast Niklas & Pattie Charlie Slater
$15 FREE
Steve Dorage Drew Bracewell Robert Cox
FREE/$2 FREE $40/55
Bethany + Steve Sara + Doc Vinaya Ananda
Najiyyah + Kody Adesi Sue Weiloch Brenda Roberts Nancy Reed David and Carol Linda Mast Sara Holmes, MGs Myguail Chappell Neil Norton Sylvia Cross Myguail Chappell Bobbie Elzey Aaron Marks Lyrika Holmes Steve Dorage
Sara + Speaker Portia Langley
Get Active! • Events Team Decatur Announces Grand Prix Series of Run/Walks Need some motivation and fun to help you stay fit in 2017? Decatur Active Living invites you to take part in the new Team Decatur Grand Prix series. All you have to do is walk or run in four of the participating races and you will win a special prize, to be awarded in early 2018 at the Run With the Dogs 5K. Team Decatur is no longer
participating in the KP Corporate Run/Walk – so stay local and become a winner. Registration is required (but it’s free). For more information on Team Decatur and run/walks in the city visit decaturga.com/teamdecatur or contact cheryl.burnette@decaturga. com, 678-553-6541.
Team Decatur Grand Prix Series 2017 Jan. 21
Run With the Dogs
March 11 Tour deCatur April 29 Beat the Street for Little Feet June 10 Dancer’s Heart
Biking in Decatur Third Friday Fun Bike Ride
youngsters can earn a bike! See page 5
Join Decatur Active Living for a fun, all-levels monthly bike ride on every third Friday, March through October. Meet in front of the Decatur Recreation Center at 6:30 p.m. and be ready to ride. We ride five-six miles at a slow pace and then visit a local restaurant or pub for refreshments. This is a no-drop ride. Helmets and lights are required. For more information visit decaturga. com/biking. Free.
Bike to School Day Wednesday, May 3 As part of National Bike Month and the SRTS program, Decatur children will participate in Bike to School Day. The event builds on the popularity of Walk to School Day, which is celebrated across the country – and the world – each October. Many communities and schools have been holding spring walk- and bicycle-to-school events for years. National Bike to School Day provides an opportunity for schools across the country to join together to celebrate and to build off of the energy of National Bike Month.
Bike to Work Day Energizer Station May 19, 7-9 am National Bike to Work Day is an annual event across the United States and Canada that promotes the bicycle as a commuting option. Stop by the Decatur Recreation Center’s Energizer Station on your way to the office (or wherever you work), and enjoy refreshments, collect bicycle safety information, cycling maps, and cool swag.
Oct. 7
Fifth Avenue 5K
Nov. 11
Run for Justice
Dec. 2
Reflect Hope
Valentines Dance
Friday, Feb. 10 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Decatur Recreation Center and Ebster Recreation Center
Lets Dance! Enjoy an evening of music, food, fun and friends at Ebster Recreation Center for 1st-3rd grades and Decatur Recreation Center for 4th-5th grades. Tickets are $5 per student. Grades 1-5 are welcome. For more information, contact Portia Langley, Portia. langley@decaturga.com.
Walking/Pedestrians Sunday Strolls and Thursday Walks Join the pedestrian committee of the Active Living board for Third Sunday Strolls at 2 p.m. and Fourth Thursday Bright at Night walks at 7:30 p.m. Most walks begin at the Decatur Recreation Center. Thursday walkers will receive a light to keep them Bright at Night: Be Safe, Be Seen! If raining, the walks will be held on the indoor walking track in the gym. Free. More information at decaturga.com/walking.
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After School
Contact Nancy Brune • 404-378-1082 nancy.brune@decaturga.com
Animal Crackers, Whiz Kids and Project R.E.A.L. Decatur’s Children and Youth Services Division offers nine after-school programs serving City Schools of Decatur K-8th graders throughout the city. The Animal Crackers program serves K-3rd graders at six locations: Oakhurst, Westchester, Winnona Park, Clairemont, and Glennwood elementary schools and at Decatur Recreation Center. The Whiz Kids program is offered at two sites for 4th-5th graders – Fifth Avenue 4/5 Academy and Ebster Recreation Center. Project R.E.A.L. serves middle schoolers at Renfroe Middle School. Many of our K-5 programs are full with waiting lists. Please call the Children and Youth Services office or email cys@decaturga.com to inquire about enrollment status.
After School Programs – Fees and Registration Nine after-school programs for K-8th graders are offered in Decatur in 2017-18: Reg. Locations Grades Fee
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Clairemont Glennwood Oakhurst Animal Crackers Westchester Winnona Park Decatur Rec. Center Whiz Kids
5th Avenue Ebster Rec. Center
Project REAL Renfroe PROJECT
|
Financial Assistance Limited financial assistance for after-school programs and all-day camps is available on a sliding scale to Decatur residents who demonstrate a need. If you have questions or need additional information, call Decatur Children and Youth Services, 404-378-1082.
5 Days Per Day Res/NonRes Res/NonRes
K-3rd $35 $310/$335 $75/$85
4th-5th $35 $310/$335 $75/$85
6th-8th $35 $250/$275 $60/$70
R.E.A.L.
Fees are charged in advance for nine 20-day sessions throughout the school year. A family’s session fee is based on how many days per week each child is registered to attend.
K-5th All-Day Camps Spring 2017 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. • Ebster Recreation Center Bring a lunch. Snack is provided by the program. Date
Theme
Webtrac no.
Deadline
February Break All-Day Camps – Holiday Hullaballoo Feb. 13 St. Patty’s Party – St. Patrick’s Day 582010-09 Feb. 14 Cards, Candy & Hearts, Oh My! – Valentine’s Day 582010-10 Feb. 15 Mardi Gras Masquerade 582010-11 Feb. 16 A Spooktacular Surprise – Halloween 582010-12 Feb. 17 The Biggest Birthday Bash 582010-13
Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Jan. 28
March 13 March of the Penguins
582010-14
Feb. 25
Spring Break All-Day Camps – Wild Things April 3 Anyone Can Be Anything April 4 Wait, This Isn’t New York April 5 Animal Planet April 6 Jungle Gym April 7 Walk on the Wild Side
582012-01 582012-02 582012-03 582012-04 582012-05
March 18 March 18 March 18 March 18 March 18
NOTE: No camps will be offered on city holidays including Jan. 2, MLK Day, and Memorial Day. 14
Playbook
• Decatur Active Living • Children and Youth Services • Register online at decaturga.com/webtrac
After School / Summer Camps AFTER SCHOOL
Lottery Registration for 2017-18 Opens Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. WHO: For new Kindergarten families, families just moving to Decatur, and any family seeking to enroll in after-school programs in the 2017-18 school year. WHEN: Lottery registration will be open from Feb. 21, 10 a.m., through April 21, 6 p.m. Visit the After School Lottery page at decaturga.com/cys for further details on this process. Detailed instructions will be published online by Feb. 1. The lottery will be run on April 28 and families will be notified via email of their enrollment status no later than May 12. If your child is not assigned a space in the lottery spin, then s/he will be automatically placed on the waitlist for that program.
Pre-Registration for Currently Enrolled Families WHO: Families with all fees paid through Jan. 15 (Session 6), and with at least one child enrolled in a City of Decatur after-school program in the current school year as of Jan. 15, are eligible to pre-register. WHEN: Jan. 17-Feb. 5 – online. Registration Forms for 2017-18 will be made available to enrolled families via email on Jan. 17. The forms should be completed and submitted online by Feb. 5.
After School Dates to Remember Jan. 26 Playbook release – online version Jan. 31 Summer camp sneak preview at Decatur Recreation Center, 6:45-7:45 p.m. Feb. 1
After school lottery instructions posted on city website
Feb. 3
Summer camp Playbook release – online and in print at DRC
Feb. 21 After school lottery registration opens for 2017-18 at 10 a.m. online March 4 Summer camp registration opens online and at decatur recreation center – 9 a.m. April 21 After school lottery registration closes at 6 p.m. April 28 After school lottery spin for 2017-18 May 12 Notification of lottery/waitlist enrollment
Summer Camp Snapshot:
iDiscover and Camp Sycamore Two summer day camps are offered this year: iDiscover Camp for rising K-5th graders at Ebster Recreation Center (June 5-July 7) and Camp Sycamore for rising K-3rd graders, a theme-based exploration day camp at Decatur Recreation Center (June 5-16 and July 3-21). K-6th campers will also have many opportunities to explore a range of special interests throughout the summer in instructor-led “E-camps” (enrichment camps) at Oakhurst Elementary (June 5-30) and at Decatur Recreation Center (July 10-21). Join us for a camp preview on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 6:45 p.m., to learn about our new camp offerings and check out the special camp edition of the Playbook for details on all our exciting camps.
Camp Calendar At-a-Glance Jan. 26
Playbook available online
Jan. 31
Camp Preview at DRC, 6:45 p.m.
Feb. 3
Summer Camp Edition of Playbook available in print at DRC and online
March 4
Registration for camps opens at 9 a.m. online and at DRC
June 5-July 7
iDiscover Camp for rising K-5th graders, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; aftercare 4-6 p.m.
June 5-30 & July 10-21 Enrichment Camps for rising K-6th graders, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; aftercare 4-6 p.m. June 5-16 & July 3-21 Camp Sycamore for rising K-3rd graders, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; aftercare 4-6 p.m.
Camp Registration Information about summer camp sessions will be available in the Camp Edition of the Playbook. Registration for summer day camp begins March 4, 9 a.m., online and at Decatur Recreation Center. Families that have not previously participated in after school or an activity or event through Active Living should take steps prior to March 4 to get a household ID and password to use for online registration. Visit decaturga.com/webtrac for information on how to register. Camp Costs Camps range in cost for City of Decatur residents from $230 per session at iDiscover Camp, Camp Sycamore and most Enrichment Camps up to $258 for sessions with additional materials costs. Camps cost $25 more per week for nonresidents. Financial Assistance Financial assistance for summer camps is available to families on a sliding scale based on annual income and household size. The minimum weekly rate is $40 per child. Families seeking financial assistance to send a child to camp should complete a financial assistance application in addition to the camper registration form. To register for camp at a reduced rate, submit both the completed application and the documentation online prior to March 4. Funds are provided in part by the Mary Miller Decatur Youth Fund and are awarded to city residents who have a documented need. Financial assistance applications can be submitted prior to March 4 for processing before the camper registration start date. Download the 2017-18 financial assistance application from decaturga.com/cys or pick one up at the Decatur Recreation Center any time before March 4.
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Calendar • Open Gym Dates to Remember Jan. 16 Closed for MLK Holiday
April 24
Feb. 4 Super Hooper Day
May 4 Bike to School Day
Feb. 11
Lacrosse Parents Meeting
May 19
Bike to Work Day
Feb. 13-17
Winter Break (City Schools of Decatur)
May 27
Feb. 20
Closed for Presidents Day After school programs will be open
Children’s Arts Festival/City of Decatur Pools Open for the Summer
May 29
Closed for Memorial Day
March 4
Soccer Parents Meeting
June 3 Youth Baseball Opening Day
March 4
Summer Camp Registration
March 25
Touch A Truck Day
April 3-7
Spring Break City Schools of Decatur
Earth Day Celebration Oakhurst Garden
There’s always more information on our blog at
beactivedecatur.com facebook.com/decaturactiveliving
Open Gym Ebster Recreation Center 105 Electric Ave.
portia.langley@decaturga.com 678-553-6563
Badminton
Welcome to Decatur,
Sara Holmes Decatur Active Living welcomes Sara Holmes, program supervisor (adults). Sara joined the Active Living team in October and hit the ground running. She brings experience from the Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department and Forest Park Recreation and Leisure Services. Look for some of the new and exciting programs for adults in 2017.
Thursdays • 6:30-9 p.m. March 10-May 26 Resident free/nonresident $3
Family Open Gym
Decatur Recreation Center 231 Sycamore St. Residents free/nonresidents $2 lee.williams@decaturga.com 678-553-6742
Adult Open Gym Basketball Mon-Fri. • noon-2 p.m. • Jan. 3- May 25 Sunday • 3-5 p.m. • March 12-Nov. 12 Tu • 7-9 p.m. • March 7-Nov. 12
Saturdays • noon-4 p.m. • March 12-May 28
Youth Open Gym Basketball
Pickleball
Mon-Fri • 3:30-5:30 p.m. During the school year
Tuesdays • 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays • 2:30-5 p.m. (during basketball season) Wednesdays • 2:30-6 p.m. • March 9-May 25
Youth Basketball Saturdays • noon-4 p.m. March 12- May 28
Family Open Gym Saturdays • 2-4 p.m. • Starting March 19
Adult Indoor Soccer Sundays • 2:30-5:30 p.m. • Starting Jan. 10
Adult Volleyball Sundays • 6:30-9 p.m. • year-round Wednesdays • April 5-Nov. 8