Going to the Dogs

We asked our readers to submit photos of themselves with their beloved pets and, as you’ve already seen on the cover, they responded with some really cute images. Our new graphic designer and photographer Isadora Pennington also fanned out across Intown to find some cute pets at local parks. You’ll find even more photos on pages 12-13 of this issue.

I don’t have a pet right now. I had two sweet Labrador Retrievers growing up (RIP Scooter and Doogie), but with my busy life and general selfishness with my time, I simply don’t have time to take care of a pet.

However, when I move into my dotage, I plan to adopt a Pug. I have a soft spot for those little pups and their squishy, drooly, panting faces. Yes, I will be that old man out taking his little dog for a walk. Get off my lawn, you darn kids!

Speaking of my busy life, this will be the first year I’ve missed the Decatur Book Festival , which will draw hundreds of authors and thousands of visitors over Labor Day weekend. As literary legend Joyce

Carol Oates takes the podium for the keynote address, I’ll be winging my way across the pond for my own literary and musical adventures in London.

As a fan of iconic British singer Kate Bush for 30 years, I managed to snag a ticket to one of her sold out shows at the Hammersmith theatre.

That same week, I’ll be heading over to the Young Vic theatre to see Gillian Anderson as Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire. Anderson has come a long way since playing Agent Scully on The X-Files.

Also on my must see list: the Virginia Woolf exhibition at The National Portrait Gallery. This collection of rare photos, paintings, manuscripts and personal objects is on through September.

Before I return to Atlanta, I’ll have the honor of reading my own work at Royal Festival Hall at Southbank Centre as part of the Polari series. I’ll be reading from my recent collection of poetry, Render, and a few new pieces. If you happen to be in London, stop by and say hello. While I’m abroad, AtlantaINtownPaper.com will be regularly updated and I’ll also be planning our October issue. Also just around the corner is our 20th anniversary issue in November. I can’t wait for you to see the stories, photos and goodies we’ve got planned for that. It’s been in the works all summer long and we’re excited to celebrate with you.

Enjoy the Decatur Book Festival, Dragon Con and all the other endof-summer events happening around Intown this month.

Cheers!

About The Cover

Clockwise from top left:

1. Sadie with Sue Wilkinson

2. Doug Granville with Willomina, Steven Teal with Apollo