Decatur Focus Newsletter June / July 2016

Focus

Inside: A New Day in Decatur

ANNUAL REPORT 2016

City of Decatur

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JULY-AUGUST 2016 Volume 27 • Number 1

Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia

On Friday, the festival focuses on activities for young readers.

Beloved Southern author Pat Conroy (1945-2016)

AJC Decatur Book Festival Pays Tribute to Pat Conroy

The busy marketplace fills Ponce de Leon and Clairemont avenues.

Decatur loves books! On Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2-4, thousands of book lovers will visit Decatur for a chance to meet their favorite authors, to hear new voices, and to learn the nuts and bolts of the business. Learn more about the festival and its special tribute to the late Pat Conroy, author and friend of the festival, on page 14.

News 3 City

BUsiness 9 NEWs

Festival mascot Bookzilla

12 DBA NEWs

Around School 13 DECATUR EVENTs 23 Town news 19

Focus City of Decatur

Livable Centers Initiative –

A Great Fit for Our Decatur

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he City of Decatur has participated in the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) program since 1999. The strategies of the LCI program link transportation improvements with land use development to create sustainable life-long communities.

All local governments in the Atlanta regional area are eligible for the program, which is overseen by the Atlanta Regional Commission. The program awards grants to prepare and implement plans for the enhancement of existing downtowns and corridors and the creation of new mixeduse activity centers consistent with regional development policies.

Many of the regional-level policies align with Decatur’s 2010 Strategic Plan, making the LCI program a great fit for our community. As a bonus, the program provides grants to fund transportation infrastructure improvements. Decatur has taken advantage of several of these grants.

Decatur originally had two designated LCI districts – downtown Decatur (2000) and the Avondale MARTA Station (2002). The fact that our city is only 4.4 square miles in area, has three MARTA stations and actively supports transportation options resulted in the Atlanta Regional Commission designating our entire city as one LCI district in 2010. This designation allowed the city to expand the 2010 Strategic Plan to create a citywide LCI plan in 2011 that incorporates the entire city boundaries, but also maintains a chapter dedicated to downtown Decatur.

The LCI plan provides a more thorough analysis and update of the original Decatur Town Center Plan and incorporates changing market conditions and new development challenges.

The LCI plan has a total of 59 recommendations, 32 of which directly focus on downtown, and addresses goals in six areas – land use and zoning; transportation; economic development; urban design; historic resources; and environment and open space. Improved mobility, more small businesses, sustainable practices, more greenspace, and new housing options were among the ideas suggested, but no tax increase was supported to address these desired outcomes.

The city has leveraged tax revenue from downtown infill development and funds from the LCI program to implement community goals for our commercial districts. Here’s a list of some of those projects, many of which are within downtown:

Focus on Community Development

• MARTA Plaza Master Plan (1999) – jointly funded by the city, the Downtown Development Authority and the Decatur Business Association • Master Plan for Avondale MARTA Station Area/East Decatur District (2002) – LCI grant matched by the city See Livable Centers Initiative on page 4 Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, or by email to decaturfocus@decaturga.com.

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The Decatur Focus is a joint publication of the City of Decatur, the Decatur Downtown Development Authority and the Decatur Business Association. It is a newsletter intended to provide announcements and information related to events, activities, and businesses in the City of Decatur. The purpose of the newsletter is to promote the city and encourage the exchange of information among residents, business owners and the school system. Letters to the editor, editorials or other opinion pieces are not published. All press releases, announcements and other information received for publication are subject to editing. Information found in the Focus is also posted on Decatur’s official website at decaturga.com. The deadline for submitting articles, announcements or advertising is the first day of the month preceding publication. Contact: Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, 404-371-8386; fax 404-371-1593; email: decaturfocus@decaturga.com.

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DECATUR CITY COMMISSION Patti Garrett...................................................Mayor Fred Boykin................................Mayor Pro Tem Scott Drake..................................Commissioner Tony Powers...............................Commissioner Brian Smith..................................Commissioner

DECATUR DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Board Chris Sciarrone, Chair Linda Curry • John Drake Bill Floyd • Scott Kentner Tony Leung • Fisher Paty

Decatur Business Association

DECATUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Tim Martin.............................................. President Kyle Williams............................. President-elect Susan Sparks.......................................... Treasurer Lisa Bobb................................................. Secretary Marc Brennan............................. Past President

Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com

City News et Ready to Hey Decatur! G

te glass You must separa ing, and from other recycl r you ing (br — OB BY ing own bin) beginn

Over the past few months, Decatur public works staff has explored recycling options and gathered feedback from the community. All options, including sending glass to the landfill, involved an increase in the cost for providing recycling. Approximately 20 percent of the current recycling stream is glass. Adding the additional weight from glass into the waste stream would increase landfill disposal fees and other costs associated with refuse collection.

Although many other communities eliminated glass entirely from their recycling programs, Decatur has traditionally set a higher standard for environmental sustainability. An online survey developed with the assistance of the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Board collected more than 630 responses on this issue.

More than 90 percent of respondents indicated they were willing to pay an additional $25 to $35 per year to continue curbside glass recycling services. And more than 78 percent of the respondents were willing to provide their own bins for separating glass to be recycled.

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hanges to Decatur’s residential curbside recycling services begin July 1, 2016. New rules set by recycling facilities dictate that glass must be collected separately from other recyclables. Decatur residents will need two bins – one bin for glass only, and one for paper, plastics and metal. Residents will be responsible for providing the second bin, and there are no stipulations regarding type or color, though it should be 18 gallons or smaller.

FAQ:

Why do recycling facilities no longer want glass mixed in with other materials?

Will the glass collected actually be recycled?

Yes. The glass collected will be sent to a recovery facility called Strategic Materials.

They are a processor for recycled glass used in a wide array of products such as containers, fiberglass insulation, and countertops.

While a co-mingled recycling collection program provides many benefits, it has contributed to a system of poorly sorted recovered materials, with pieces of glass, plastic and metal being delivered in bales of fiber; the wrong types of fiber going to paper mills; and plastics, glass, and other materials being delivered to incorrect product manufacturers.

Did the city consider a drop-off location?

Yes, but suitable land to use as a drop-off location is not available within the city limits.

How does this affect City of Decatur residents?

Residents will need to place glass in a separate bin, 18 gallons or smaller, for curbside pickup on their regular collection days. Any type or color is acceptable.

All other recyclable materials can continue to be placed together in a separate bin.

The annual sanitation fee for the new fiscal year increased from $250 to $275 to cover the cost for separated glass collection services.

Residents will see an adjustment of $25 on the second property tax installment bill sent later this year.

I still have my old red glass-only recycling bin. Can I use that?

Yes, use those bins if you have them. If you do not have a bin, you must provide your own. The bin should be 18 gallons or smaller, but any type or color is acceptable.

What materials does the city currently collect in the co-mingled recycling services?

Visit decaturga.com/recycling for a complete list of the materials that are currently accepted.

UPDATED: Comprehensive Plan Draft to Be Presented

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draft of Decatur’s Comprehensive Plan Update will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Commission in July. The draft document will propose recommendations on five-year goals pertaining to economic development, transportation, land use, housing, and natural and cultural resources. The recommendations are based on three months of public input. The draft document will also be accessible for public review and comment through August at decaturnext.com. For more information, contact Angela Threadgill, 678-553-6575, or angela.threadgill@decaturga.com.

NOTE: These dates have been updated since the Focus went to press.

Tuesday, Aug. 9, 7 p.m.

Decatur Planning Commission meeting City Commission Meeting Room 509 N. McDonough St.

Monday, Aug. 15, 7:30 p.m.

City Commission Meeting City Commission Meeting Room 509 N. McDonough St. Tuesday, Aug. 16 Document available on decaturnext.com

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City News Sign Up now for New Citizen’s Police Academy Sessions

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he Decatur Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) will be held SeptemberNovember. Sessions are Thursday nights, 7-9:30 p.m. The 10-week course focuses on the inner workings of the

police department and how our officers enforce laws and help keep us safe.

In addition to attending weekly sessions covering various topics, participants will complete a patrol ride-a-long, get to know many of

the officers serving our community, and meet new neighbors from around the city. If you are interested in signing up for the Citizen’s Police Academy, contact Lt. Jennifer Ross, jennifer. ross@decaturga.com or 678-553-6613.

• Oakhurst Business District Streetscape Project (2015/16) – GDOT grant matched by the city • The upcoming N. McDonough Streetscape (2016) and railroad crossing improvements – LCI grant and GDOT grants matched by the city • Streetscape improvements and parking infrastructure for Avondale MARTA/ East Decatur project (2017) – LCI grant matched by MARTA and the city.

town Decatur over the last 20 years: • $22 million in LCI grants and Transportation Enhancement grants for streetscape, bicycle improvements and pedestrian safety improvements awarded.

• $6.8 million in matching funds from the city’s capital improvement funds.

The most recent group of Citizen’s Police Academy graduates

Livable Centers Initiative continued from page 2 • Downtown MARTA Plaza Renovation (2002) – LCI grant matched by the Decatur Downtown Development Authority • Affordable Housing Study (2007) – LCI grant matched by the city • E. Trinity Streetscape/Church Street Streetscape (2015) – Transportation Enhancement grant through Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) matched by the city • 2011 Plan for new combined citywide LCI district – LCI grant matched by the city 4 | Decatur Focus • JULY-AUGUST 2016

Here are the numbers to show how much the LCI program and the Transportation Enhancement grant have benefited the city’s commercial districts and primarily down-

Leveraged: • 6,000 linear feet of streetscape investment by private developers to date • More than 800 new residential units built downtown and another 200 under construction • 130,000 square feet of new retail/restaurant space added downtown more

City News Congratulations, Firefighter Sanford

Learn to Read the ‘Cemetery Way’ Students from Renfroe Middle School volunteered to do some cleanup in Decatur Cemetery in preparation for the Garden Tour and upcoming Second Sunday Stroll season. During their time there, one of the parents accompanying them, Nicki Salcedo, shared this story:

We Really Do Love the Decatur Cemetery!

Decatur’s newest firefighter, Beth Sanford, graduated recently as the top student in her EMT class at Faithful Guardian Training Center. She is now moving forward to becoming an advanced EMT.

My son wasn’t interested in learning his letters and sight words in preschool.

We read a lot in our house, so we tried creative strategies to get him reading. I made an alphabet book that included every superhero from comic books and sci-fi movies. He was only a little motivated.

We like to read and we like to walk. The Decatur Cemetery has always been a walking spot for our family. One day, we noticed that my son was pointing out letters and trying to read the tombstones. I like to credit the cemetery for getting him interested in words. We would look for the letters in his name and try to find family member names throughout the markers.

Some people might think it is morbid, but we try to find joy in the past.

Those cemetery visits helped his reading and interest in words. If I ever meet a parent who has a child who doesn’t like to read, I say, “Take them to the cemetery!” We still love the history and wonder and mystery of gravestones. And my son can read just fine these days. – Nicki Salcedo

Labor Day Solid Waste and Recycling Services Regular services for Monday, Sept. 5, will be on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

Regular services for Tuesday, Sept. 6, will be on Wednesday, Sept 7.

• More than 150 retail and restaurant businesses throughout the city’s three commercial districts • Acquisition and resale of the Callaway site for a $55 million redevelopment • A $52 million redevelopment of the Avondale MARTA College Avenue parking lot.

For more information about the LCI program in downtown Decatur, contact Lyn Menne, lyn.menne@decaturga.com; Catherine Lee, catherine.lee@decaturga.com; or Angela Threadgill, angela.threadgill@decaturga.com.

Now the Friends of Decatur Cemetery can add another “R” to reasons for visiting a cemetery: Remember; Reconnect; Recreate . . . and READ! Guided tours continue the Second Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. through October. Meet in the gazebo off Commerce Drive. For information contact friendsofdecaturcemetery@gmail.com.

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City News Decatur Votes is a nonpartisan, city-led program involving city staff and employees and emphasizes the importance of voting, voter education, and voter outreach.

Since the first meeting in April participants have been busy educating Decatur citizens on voting dates, candidates, and issues for upcoming elections.

Volunteers are still being accepted for upcoming voter registration drives and neighborhood canvassing activities. Contact Olivia Jackson, olivia.jackson@ decaturga.com, or 678-553-6540 to join or to request Decatur Votes attendance at your community event.

Don’t forget to vote during the July 26 runoff election. Members of city staff are ready to assist you if you need to change your address or register to vote. Ask City Clerk Janet Kindelberger or Management Fellow Olivia Jackson for the necessary forms.

Decatur Votes committee members during the Decatur Volunteer Appreciation event in April

Jessie Hadley Named Safe Routes Champion for Metro Area

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ecatur resident Jessie Hadley took over as Parent Champion at Winnona Park Elementary in Decatur for the 2014-2015 school year. She immediately went to work to increase the numbers of walkers and bikers at the school. For International Walk & Roll day in 2013, 50 percent of the students participated and that number increased in 2014 to 56 percent.

The school held special Walk & Roll Days the first Wednesday of each month and the numbers remained consistent and even increased during spring.

The students also participated in Bike to School Day. Jessie has used various ideas and methods to increase student participation and parent involvement. One idea was to create a special sign to display on the day before Walk & Roll days to remind parents and students.

On walk days, the students each earn a marble upon arrival at school that is put into a special “marble counter.” On Georgia Walk

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Winnona Park Principal Greg Wiseman with Jessie Hadley

& Roll day, with the marble counter overflowing, Jessie had to add a bucket to collect the rest of the marbles. The school had the highest participation in Decatur for this

special day and received the “Golden Shoe Award,” which was presented at a student community circle time.

City News PLAY BALL!

Baseball Season Begins in Decatur

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ecatur Active Living kicked off its Summer Youth Baseball League with the annual Opening Day Parade and Ceremony in June. The parade began at McKoy Park and concluded at Oakhurst Park. Spectators sat along the street as the parade passed by with trucks full of kids representing their team.

During the Opening Ceremony all teams were recognized, everyone sang the national anthem, special guests were recognized and former Decatur High School baseball coach Eddie Fowlkes was honored. Players and spectators enjoyed free hot dogs, face painting, balloons, and games.

Decatur Active Living thanks everyone who came out to support the Opening Day Parade and Ceremony.

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City News School News

Decatur for a Lifetime

Ride Your Bike.

Buy the Shirt.

Innovative Housing – Next Door or in Your Own Backyard Thursday, July 21 • 6:30 p.m.

Decatur Recreation Center • 231 Sycamore St.

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here have been many articles about “missing middle” housing – the gap between a singlefamily house and a multi-unit dwelling. This can also be the gap between an older resident continuing to live in Decatur or a young professional moving into Decatur. In this presentation Planning Director Angela Threadgill will discuss innovative housing options in Decatur.

Find out whether you can build an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit – an additional small dwelling on a single-family lot) on your property. Learn about how a cottage court can provide a lower-priced, smaller home option for someone who doesn’t want to purchase a large home. There will even be information on the popular tiny houses and on house sharing.

The program is presented by the Lifelong Community Advisory Board. For more information about the Decatur for a Lifetime initiative or the board, contact leeann.harvey@decaturga.com or 678-553-6548.

“I Bike Decatur” T-shirts are now available at Decatur Bikes and the Decatur Visitors Center.

They come in both men’s and women’s styles and are only $20. Support biking in Decatur!

Active Living Launches New Program for Seniors

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n June, Decatur Active Living launched Silver Spokes, a pilot senior bicycling program using tricycles that help maintain balance and support to those with mobility challenges. Thanks to a mini grant of $1,000 from the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association, the department was able to purchase three adult tricycles for this new program.

The program kicked off with a training session in which a woman who had never ridden a bike before and another who was eager to overcome the fear of losing her balance attended.

During the classes, participants have a chance to go out for short rides in a car-free plaza or park, revisit the rules of cycling and practice skills.

The program is scheduled to resume in September. Classes are held weekly.

Seniors interested in using one of the tricycles may sign up with Tracie Sanchez at 678-553-6559. The trikes will be available in the Ebster Gym courtyard, 105 Electric Ave.

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Business and Nonprofit News Atlanta Barbell Gym: Strength Starts Here

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ecently relocated to East Decatur Station, Atlanta Barbell Gym was founded on the premise that strength is a vital component to sustained health, no matter your athleticism or age. Owners Dee Campanella and Alex Kennedy take pride in serving a diverse membership base that ranges from beginners to competitive athletes, teenagers to folks born before 1950, and with a membership base that is 40 percent female.

The gym’s Learn to Lift class teaches beginners how to safely and effectively execute the four core barbell lifts. Starting Strength-certified coaches prepare competitive lifters to set personal records in meets. Individual coaching as well as programming options serve a majority of the membership population. An open gym model provides members access seven days a week.

The Decatur community is invited to join Atlanta Barbell at these upcoming events: • A grand opening celebration Saturday, July 16 – details at atlantabarbell.com • Powerlifting for Pups, a competition benefiting Friends of DeKalb Animals – details at powerliftingforpups.com

Returning in September

Treat yourself in Decatur and enjoy prizes, pop-ups, snacks, specials and oh-so-much more at participating local shops when you Keep It Indie-catur at this special shopping event. Stay tuned to TheDecaturMinute.com for details.

To learn more, visit atlantabarbell.com or call 404-618-6802.

Woodlands Garden Moves Ahead with Master Planning and Construction

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oodlands Garden continues to raise its profile within the broader community. The capital campaign to “Keep it Green Indie-catur” has laid the groundwork for a renovation that will include many enhancements to the visitor experience at the garden. The planning and design effort for the project is being led by Hank Spiker, the garden’s property committee chair, in collaboration with TSW, an architecture and planning firm.

Last year Woodlands Garden acquired the adjacent 915 Clairemont Ave. property. This expanded footprint at the south corner of the site will allow easier visitor access from both Scott Boulevard and Clairemont Avenue, including enhanced signage, an expanded parking area, better access for school buses, and new walkways for pedestrians to reach the garden’s trails.

The design team is carefully orchestrating its plans for the corner property to minimize the number of trees impacted while still meeting the need for centralized, safe and convenient visitor parking.

The garden’s visitor center will be updated to include restrooms and a gallery space for art shows and events. As part of this renovation, a separate shed will be constructed for storage of tools and gardening supplies. A meandering, accessible landscaped walkway will guide visitors to the trails and to the open lawn area. A small porch will be constructed on the lawn for open-air music performances and other special events.

With the design process scheduled to be completed later this summer, construction should begin late this fall. Construction will be phased to allow visitor access to some areas of the garden throughout the renovation process. The renovation is tentatively scheduled to be completed in late 2017. For updates on design and construction visit woodlandsgarden.org/construction.

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Business & Nonprofit News Studio A2 Receives Design Excellence Awards Shawn C. and Edward J. Alshut, founding principals of Studio A2 Architecture and Interiors, have received a Gold Award from the Georgia chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. The award, given for a residential project under 3,500 square feet, was presented in a ceremony at the Fox Theatre.

The Gold Award-winning project was an interior renovation of a 1990s custom home. The scope included interior architecture, lighting and interior furnishings and finishes.

For more information, contact Shawn Alshut, salshut@studioa2-design.com, or Edward Alshut, ealshut@studioa2-design.com.

Private Bank of Decatur Welcomes Bryant and Mujtaba

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rivate Bank of Decatur has added Rachel Bryant as a peak-time teller and personal banker. The Griffin native earned a bachelor of arts degree in art history from Agnes Scott College and fell in love with Decatur. Prior to her current position, she worked as a graphic designer and visual merchandiser at several Decatur boutique retail stores.

Asif Mujtaba, recently named senior vice president and relationship manager of Private Bank of Buckhead, will be based at the Decatur location, 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., and serve customers across the Metro area. He received a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Karachi and attended the Institute of Chartered Accountants in London. In 2010, he relocated to Chicago as regional president for an Atlantabased community bank, and recently returned to Georgia.

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AADD Taps Tosha Connors as Director of Development

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ll About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) has hired Tosha Connors as director of development. In her new role, she will work to increase awareness, donations and support for the developmental disabilities community.

Before joining AADD, Connors was the director of development for Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service in New York City. Prior to that, she served as development director for Boys Town and as development manager of major gifts for Bright Beginnings, both in Washington, D.C. She was the student director of sponsorship for Safe Campuses Now in Athens, Georgia.

Connors received her Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs from Columbia College in South Carolina and her Master of Public Administration with a focus on nonprofit management from the University of Georgia.

All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) is a nonprofit organization that provides advocacy, family support services and training for Georgia families living with developmental disabilities.

Decatur Resident Releases Sci-Fi Thriller Decatur resident and Georgia movie director Eric Blue recently premiered his first featurelength sci-fi thriller, Beacon Point. The Georgiaproduced independent film features a group of hikers on a 10-day trip along the Appalachian Trail, through the Great Smoky Mountains.

The hikers get lost and stumble across an ancient secret that threatens their survival.

The movie taps into local Cherokee legends of the Smokies, creating a compelling and mystical backdrop for the characters. Learn more and see the trailer at facebook.com/ beaconpointmovie.

Business & Nonprofit News Decatur Kids Help REAP Teachers Learn to Teach Reading

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arly this summer 20 Decatur kids enjoyed a free reading camp as they helped 16 public school teachers practice effective ways to teach struggling readers. The camp was hosted

by Decatur nonprofit REAP: Reading is Essential for All People. REAP provides public school teachers with free Orton-Gillingham training to improve reading proficiency for all the children they teach – about 400 kids per teacher over a career.

Since 2013 Decatur-based REAP has trained 260 public school teachers and positively affected the lives of more than 8,000 readers. For more information about REAP visit readingisessential.org.

New Business in Decatur

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OSzam, a new point-of-sales solutions company for restaurant and counter service establishments, has opened in Decatur. Owners Richard Williams and Colin Comer created the company to help restaurants improve customer service, increase mobility and efficiency, and provide key business insights to managers and owners through cloud-based management and reporting.

POSzam strives to be an affordable solution for restaurants of all sizes without losing the full features required to effectively manage and run a successful operation. For more information visit poszam.com.

Book as Art Exhibit Opens August 19

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rtist books take many forms – from handmade and lusciously tactile to linear and informative, abstract and questioning to sculptural and monumental. This juried show celebrates the book with a wildly varied collection of inventive and spectacular work that challenges expectations.

The show, presented by the Decatur Arts Alliance with the assistance of the Decatur Development Authority, the DeKalb County Public Library, and the Georgia Center for the Book, will be on exhibit at the Decatur branch of the DeKalb County Library, 215 Sycamore St. For more information, visit bookasart.com

SAVE THE DATES

Exhibit opens August 19

Gala reception August 26

Exhibit closes September 30

Busy Bees by Francine Goodfriend was featured in the 2015 exhibition.

JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 11

DBA News

Seen at the

JULY 26 Alexan 1133 Apartments 1133 Commerce Dr.

AUGUST 23 Revolution Doughnuts 908 W. College Ave.

Meeting Reminders:

5:15 p.m. Networking reception 6 p.m.

Program Sponsors TBA. Visit decaturdba.com for details.

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Thank you to DBA sponsors

Decatur Events BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival Expands into Multi-Stage Music Event Saturday, Aug. 13 • noon-8 p.m.

Ten bands, two stages, and more than 14 hours of blues and bluegrass music will entertain attendees at the 16th annual Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival. The Harmony Park stage will supplement the New Belgium/Patientco main stage, located in the festival lot at 630 East Lake Dr. Harmony Park Stage 12:30-1:15 p.m. Sydney Rhame 1:45 -2:30 p.m. In The Wheelhouse 3-3:45 p.m.

Jontavious Willis Trio 4:15-5 p.m.

Grizzly Goat 5:30-6:30 p.m. Lockdown Blues Band New Belgium/Patientco Main Stage 1-1:45 p.m.

Jeff Mosier 2:15-3 p.m.

Mudcat 3:30-4:15 p.m. Dappled Grays 4:45-5:45 p.m. Randall Bramblett 6:15-7:45 p.m. Dianne Durrett & Soul Suga Pre-event tickets are $12 and are now on sale through Fresh Tix and ticket alternative freshtix.com/events/decatur-bbq-blues-bluegrass-festival. Day-offestival tickets will be $20.

For more information on the Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass festival visit decaturbbqfestival.com or call 678-778-2000.

Good Causes Wanted:

Craft Beer Festival Call for Proposals

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he Decatur Craft Beer Festival committee is now accepting proposals from Decatur-based nonprofit organizations to be considered for funding from proceeds of the October 2016 festival. Each year the committee donates 75 percent of festival profits to designated projects, funds the holiday Keep It Indie-catur advertising campaign, and provides startup funding for the next year’s festival.

The committee is interested in funding projects that contribute to the quality of life in Decatur and do not have ongoing fundraising associated with them.

The committee prefers to use its funds to jump-start a special project and provide seed capital to help a focused activity get off the ground.

Organizations must be based within the city of Watch for ticket info at Decatur to be decaturbeerfestival.com considered.

The grant application for 2016 may be found at decaturbeerfestival.com, or call 678-553-6573, or email shirley.baylis@decaturga.com and request a copy. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., Monday, Aug. 8, in the Community & Economic Development Department, on the second floor of Decatur City Hall.

Craft Beer Festival October 15

Decatur to Host 9-11 Interfaith Gathering Sunday, Sept. 11 • 3-5 p.m. • Ebster Pavilion On Sunday, Sept. 11, bring a favorite, simple dish to share, a lawn chair, and an open mind and heart to the interfaith gathering to recognize the 15th anniversary of 9-11. The event will start at 3 p.m. with a pot-luck meal and continue with an interfaith service focusing on the theme “Remember, Reconcile, and Relate.”

The event will take place at the Ebster Pavilion, 404 W. Trinity Place, nestled in between the Decatur Police Station, the City Schools of Decatur central office, and the Ebster Recreation Center.

JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 13

Decatur Events AJC Decatur Book Festival Sept. 2-4 AJC Book Festival Celebrates the Life and Work of Pat Conroy

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he Atlanta Journal-Constitution Decatur Book Festival (DBF), presented by DeKalb Medical, is the largest independent book festival in the country. Over Labor Day weekend tens of thousands from metro Atlanta and beyond share the historic Decatur square with world-class authors, illustrators, editors, publishers, and booksellers for a weekend filled with literature, music, food, and fun. For more information, visit decaturbookfestival.com, “like” Decatur Book Festival on Facebook or follow @DBookFestival on Twitter.

Friday, Sept. 2 • 8 p.m.

Cassandra King Conroy, Rick Bragg, and other friends and family will gather to pay tribute to beloved bestselling author Pat Conroy as the keynote event.

The Conroy remembrance will kick off the 11th annual festival at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts at Emory University. Family and friends will share special memories of Conroy and read favorite passages from his

Conroy

Bragg

Rash

many books. Those who will participate in the special remembrance will include: • Cassandra King Conroy, Pat’s wife, who is the author of five novels, most recently the critically acclaimed Moonrise.

• The Pulitzer Prize-winning Rick Bragg, whose All Over but the Shoutin’ was a New York Times bestseller and a Times notable book of the year.

• Noted artist and children’s author Melissa Conroy, Pat’s daughter.

• Award-winning and bestselling novelist Ron Rash, author of novels Serena, Above the Waterfall, and The Risen, which will launch at the festival.

• Award-winning journalist and family friend Bronwen Dickey, author of Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon.

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Alexander Chee Selects Track (Sponsored by Mailchimp) Alexander Chee picks his dream team to speak on themes related to how history tends to repeat itself. Whiting Award-winner Chee presents Queen of the Night, which follows Paris Opera sensation Lilliet Berne as she attains a critical original role but realizes it’s based on a hidden piece of her past.

Kaitlyn Greenidge will discuss her novel,

Chee

Greenidge

Alam

We Love You, Charlie Freeman, which begins as a story of family but becomes an exploration of America’s failure to find a language to talk about race.

In Rich and Pretty, debut author Rumaan Alam will provide an insightful look into how the relationship between two best friends changes when they are no longer coming of age but learning how to live adult lives.

Award-winning poet Idra Novey will discuss her debut novel Ways to Disappear, which follows the disappearance of a famous Brazilian novelist and the young translator who turns her life upside down to follow her author’s trail.

Samantha Hunt will read from Mr. Splitfoot, a contemporary gothic novel that tracks two women in two eras as they march

toward a mysterious reckoning.

In her book Witches of America, Alex Mar illuminates the world of witchcraft while grappling in fresh and unexpected ways with the question of underlying faith.

Sunil Yapa discusses his electrifying debut novel Your Heart Is a Muscle the Size of a Fist, which is set amid the heated conflict of Seattle’s 1999 WTO protests.

Garrard Conley will read from Boy Erased, his memoir about identity, love and understanding, while essayist Kiese Laymon shares his experiences about growing up with racial violence both within his own family and in the culture at large.

In All the Single Ladies: Unmarried Women and the Rise of an Independent Nation, award-winning journalist Rebecca Traister provides a remarkable portrait of contemporary American life and how we got here, through the lens of the single American woman.

Dickey

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Kidnote Author This year’s featured kidnote author will be Dav Pilkey, who has written and illustrated numerous popular, award-winning books for children, including the Captain Underpants and Dumb Bunnies series. Pilkey also is the author of Dog Breath, winner of the California Young Reader Medal, and The Paperboy, a Caldecott Honor Book.

Growing up as a child in Elyria, Ohio, Pilkey was diagnosed with and suffers from dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. At the DBF, Pilkey will launch Dog Man, a book about a crime-biting canine who is part dog, part man. With the head of a dog and the body of a human, this heroic hound has a real nose for justice. But can he resist the call of the wild to answer the call of duty?

Decatur

Events

Fall Plant Sale at Woodlands Sundays, Sept. 11-Oct. 23 • 12:30-4:30 p.m.

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Kids|DBF This year’s Children’s Area on Sycamore Street is bigger and better than ever with more family-friendly programming, including an outdoor stage with performances by local arts organizations, character meet-and-greets, and food. As always, top names in children’s lit will present on the Children’s Stage inside the Decatur Recreation Center.

Saturday Parade • Sept. 3, 9:30 a.m.

Brad Meltzer and Chris Eliopoulos, cocreators of the picture book series Ordinary People Change the World, kick off the kids’ events on Saturday with a parade of historic proportions. Come as your favorite, most inspiring historical figure OR come as you are – after all, you are an ordinary person who can change the world!

Parade lineup will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the community bandstand on the Decatur square and end at the Children’s Stage presented by the Decatur Education Foundation.

Sunday Parade • Sept. 4, 11:30 a.m.

Sunday’s parade will be led by Andrea Beaty, author of the beloved picture books Iggy Peck, Architect; Rosie Revere, Engineer; and the brand new Ada Twist, Scientist. Atlanta Science Festival and Decatur Makers will join in the fun as we all put on our lab coats and our pocket protectors. Parade line up will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the community bandstand on the Decatur square and end at the Children’s Stage presented by the Decatur Education Foundation.

olunteers at Woodlands Garden, 932 Scott Blvd., are gearing up for the Fall Plant Sale. The annual event will run every Sunday from Sept. 11 to Oct. 23. To prepare for the sale, plants from Woodlands Garden, mainly natives, are propagated in the plant nursery. The plants offered during the sale will be well rooted and ready to be planted in your own garden.

DeKalb County Master Gardeners will be on hand during each day of the plant sale to discuss plant-related issues and help buyers select appropriate plants that will thrive in their landscape. A full list of plants for sale will be available at woodlandsgarden.org.

This year’s plant sale will include more plants and an earlier start date. Please save the date and plant a piece of our garden in your home landscape. All proceeds from the plant sale will go to help preserve this Decatur greenspace.

Decatur Tiny House Festival July 30-31 Learn how less space can mean more life

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iny House Atlanta will host its first-ever Decatur Tiny House Festival, July 30 and 31, in downtown Decatur. Ten to 15 tiny houses will be available to tour and experts on sustainability, minimalism, urban planning, zoning, and downsizing will be on hand to answer your questions.

Tiny House Atlanta is launching the festival in partnership with the City of Decatur. The event focuses on how micro housing can benefit individuals and communities in Georgia. Part of the proceeds will go to the Decatur Housing Initiatives Corporation – a nonprofit dedicated to developing affordable housing in Decatur.

Activities planned for the two-day event include: • 10 to 15 tiny houses will be on site and open for tours.

• Vendors will be on hand to explain and promote sustainable practices.

• The speaker’s symposium will offer opportunities to learn from experts in different areas of the industry. Speakers will be announced at tinyhouseatlanta.com as they are selected.

Tickets are now on sale and several ticket options are available. General admission ticket holders can enjoy the tiny homes, speakers, and vendors throughout the weekend as we begin the conversation on how cities can embrace tiny houses and the micro life. The price is $35 for a Saturday and Sunday weekend pass; $20 for a single-day ticket. Tickets can be purchased at freshtix.com/events/decatur-tiny-house-festival.

JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 15

Decatur BusinessEvents & Nonprofit News Decatur’s Dinner Party: A Meal to Live For! Saturday, Sept. 24, 6-10 p.m.

Historic Decatur Cemetery

ERthePCity NN DIyear or the running, ARof TDecatur Sfourth ’Global R Y U T and Growers present Decatur’s DinA C ner Party. This annual showcase celebrates DE Decatur’s food community – from the Global

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Growers farmers who grow fresh, healthy food right here in Decatur, to the chefs whose restaurants serve Decatur families an array of cuisines.

The event includes a multi-course meal featuring fresh Global Growers fruits and vegetables, handmade cocktails, local beers, wine, silent and live auctions with one-of-a-kind products and experiences, and 150 guests and community leaders dining family-style in Decatur’s largest greenspace, the historic Decatur Cemetery.

Tickets are $150 each and will be available July 25.

Table sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information about the event or Global Growers, contact Robin Chanin at robin@globalgrowers.org or visit globalgrowers.org.

The Dinner Party is a major fundraiser for Global Growers to support local agriculture projects.

Dinner Par s ’ r u ty at c e D A FEAST OF FARM-RAISED FOOD AN

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catur’s Kitchen Garde

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Participating Restaurants: Steinbeck’s Ale House Victory Sandwich Bar Revival

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ree and informative lunch and learn topics are presented on the third Tuesday of odd-numbered months from noon to 1 p.m. Grab your favorite “to go” or pack your own lunch and drop in at the courtroom of the historic DeKalb County Courthouse on the square in downtown Decatur.

July 19 • Saturday School Dr. Tom Keating shares on the topic of his book Saturday School – How One Town Kept Out “The Jewish,” 1902-1932.

Sept 20 • 100th Anniversary of the Last Burning of the DeKalb County Courthouse DHC staff members cover the history of DeKalb’s three courthouse fires among the six courthouses built since the county was created by the Georgia Legislature in 1822.

Nov 15 • Freedom Fighters in the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 Agnes Scott College President Elizabeth Kiss shares powerful remembrances of family members’ involvement with the Freedom Fighters of 1950s Hungary.

For more information contact Fred Mobley, DeKalb History Center archivist, 404-373-1088, extension 23, or mobley@dekalbhistory.org.

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ONLINE AT Twain’s Brewpub and Billiards on. ers for more informati Contact Global Grow Pine Street Market

A Novel Affair: A Magical Night for the Library Thursday, Sept. 22 • 7-10 p.m.

DeKalb History Center Support the library and literacy initiatives by attending this year’s A Novel Affair: A Magical Night for the Library at the DeKalb History Center in the Old Courthouse, 101 E. Court Square. Popular magician Ken Scott will amaze you with sleight-of-hand gimmicks and tricks.

For more information and to purchase tickets go to dekalblibraryfoundation.org.

Decatur Events

Decatur events it’s a Date to Stay up late!

National Poetry Slam Comes to ll Decatur residents, and everybody else, too, are invited Decatur Aug. to walk in the Decatur 1-6 Lantern Parade on the evening of

A T

Kaleidoscope – A Global Celebration

Friday, May 15. This one of those “the-more-the-merrier” Java Monkey to Serve asisHeadquarters events, so plan now to participate and be a part of helping hundred slam poets will compete in the to make thishree lantern parade memorable.

27th annual National Slam taking Make your own lantern at homePoetry or place in metro Atlanta this summer.

Decatur come to a lantern-making workshop will be the outpost for most events, and where supplies and guidance are providwill beand hosted at by area restaurants, with Java ed.open Findmics out where when visiting Monkey coffee shop acting as NPS headquarters and the decaturlanternparade.com.

Courtyard Marriott Decatur serving To participate, line up at Color Wheelas the host hotel.

The include more a dozen bouts of slam Studio at event 508 E.will Howard Ave. afterthan 8 p.m. competitions, writing workshops, a neighborhood block party and more. NPS features The parade steps off at 9 p.m. led by The three competitive rounds of slam – preliminaries, semi-finals, and finals, where slam teams Black Sheep Marching Ensemble and pafrom across the country compete for a cash prize. rade guru Chantelle Rytter. The parade This isitsthe first the competition is being held in Georgia, and poets from Decatur’s will wend way to time the community Java Monkey and Art Amok slam teams are participating. Finals will take place in the bandstand in front of the Old CourtGeorgia World Congress Center’s Sydney Marcus Auditorium Saturday, Aug. 6, 8-11 p.m. house on the square.

Regular passes and single tickets The parade is sponsored by Color for NPS events can be purchased at npsdecatur.eventbrite.com. sponsors include Poetry Slam, Inc., City of Decatur, Decatur Arts AlliWheel Studio,Event Decatur Arts Alliance, ance, Poetry Atlanta, and Little Shop of Stories.

Decatur Education Foundation, and the Decatur Development Authority.

Estate Planning Your neighbor and • & Trusts intown real estateWills specialist.

Saturday, Aug. 13 • 7-11 p.m.

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edShare, a Decatur-based humanitarian aid organization, invites guests to be transported to Africa, Asia, and Latin America during its inaugural Kaleidoscope fundraising gala at the Foundry at Puritan Mill, 916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. NE, Atlanta.

The event features live entertainment, international cuisine, and inspiring speakers.

Its purpose is to raise funds to improve global healthcare delivery and help protect our environment through the effective recovery and redistribution of surplus medical supplies and equipment.

Tickets are available for $125 for general admission and $750 for VIP Platinum.

They may be purchased at kaleidoscope. medshare.org. Colorful cocktail attire is requested.

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

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LISA CRONIC, REALTOR® lisacronic@atlantafinehomes.com 678.641.4325

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JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 17

Decatur Events Moore Town Granny Nanny Cultural Group at Agnes Scott College Thursday, Sept. 1 • Workshop 1 p.m. | Concert 7 p.m.

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amaica’s Granny Nanny Cultural Group launches the fifth season of Agnes Scott College’s Kirk Concert and Master Class Series Sept. 1. The traditional performing arts ensemble consists of master musicians, drummers, storytellers, craftspeople, herbal healers and spiritualists.

The series, presented by Agnes Scott College, is funded by the James T. and Ella Rather Kirk Fund which is designated for use to support academic programs in history, music, literature, art, and philosophy.

Additional performers for the 2016-17 Kirk Concert and Master Class series include pianist Dr. Jerico M. Vasquez on Oct. 27 and 28, and the Vega String Quartet with pianist William Ransom on March 30 and 31. Performances will take place at Agnes Scott College in Presser Hall (Maclean Auditorium), 127 S. McDonough St. All concerts and parking are free and open to the public—no tickets are necessary. For more information, call 404-471-6049 or email music@agnesscott.edu.

To learn more about the September performance, visit grannynannymaroons.com/the-granny-nanny-cultural-group.

Working for Strong Communities since 1979.

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The 14th Annual Adams Realtors Run for the Park

425 E College Ave. Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 309-7175 info@plantsllc.com www.plantsllc.com creative landscapes

We Make Summer

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August 27 at 8:00 am. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available – inquire at Adams Realtors.

All proceeds benefit the Grant Park Conservancy. Sign up on Active.com.

Open floor plan, refinished hardwoods, fresh interior paint, new carpet, completely renovated chefs kitchen, 2 patios, detached 2 car garage in a cul de sac.

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School News DEF Honors Decatur Students and Teachers

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ecatur Education Foundation holds its annual Celebration of Excellence scholarship dinner in late May each year to honor high school seniors who have received scholarships from local donors. This year the foundation awarded more than $40,000 in scholarships and laptop computers to students and teachers pursuing further education. This represents 18 scholarships that have been established by local families, DHS alumni, and the Rotary Club Foundation of Decatur and are administered by DEF. The foundation also gives laptop computers each year to students entering college. Eight students, including two students from the Global Village School, received computers.

Students honored with scholarships or laptops this year are Autumn Phillips, Matilda McNeely, Isha Yussuf, Taylor Alston, Chase Polack, Emma Sandifer, Deaundre Wilson, Sean Hunter, Kwame Oliver, Kyra Perz, Tori Terrell, Noah Hull, Rachel Beaumont, Duo-Wei Yang, Ola Ogoussan, Denzel Taylor, Jalen Sprull, Sam Carlson, Lauren Davis, Fadumo Dayib, Victoria Cook, Sarahn Nazaret, Orisa Richardson, Mohamud Sheikh, Mohamed Yussef, Mikayla Walters, Zik Da Manrhing, and Meh Sod Paw. Additional honorees are STAR students Nora Moore and Luke Downs, STAR teachers Jennifer Gonzalez and Chris Curtis, Oakhurst teacher Cliff Chestnutt, and Glennwood teacher Vicki Case-Holden, who was honored with the Clarence Strickland Jr. Make a Difference award.

Learn more about the winners at decatureducationfoundation.org.

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Decatur restaurateur Mike Gallagher (Brick Store Pub, Leon’s Full Service, Kimball House) at left with the bank’s new Decatur President, Brent Adams.

Full-service community banking: From safe deposit boxes, checking and savings to lending options from mortgages and construction to SBA and other business loans.

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JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 19

School News Westchester Elementary Hosts Battle of the Bands

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ecatur dads made some noise at the historic Avondale Theatre, battling it out for the kids of Westchester Elementary. But The Dammages, whose lead singer is a Decatur mom, took home the Golden Wolverine trophy.

Other bands in the lineup included The Benders, Flock of Eagles, and Spackle – all of whom have children in City Schools of Decatur.

CSD Superintendent Dr. David Dude was part of a celebrity judging panel for the event, which also included Mark Trojanowski, drummer for Sister Hazel; Michelle Malone, singersongwriter, musician, record producer; Trish Land, performer, designer, artist; Shawn Mullins, singer-songwriter, musician; and The Voice contestant and Decatur High School student Sydney Rhame. Award-winning DJ and radio celebrity Yvonne Monet emceed the event.

Westchester Principal Rochelle Lofstrand says the money raised will go toward the purchase of computers and other technology resources for the school, as well as for teacher grants and playground enhancements.

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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

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School News Decatur High School Soccer Team Clinches Title

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ecatur High School secured the Class AAA boys’ state soccer title with a come from behind 3-2 victory over East Hall. Senior Devin Olson scored two goals in six minutes late in the second half to erase a 1-2 halftime deficit, and clinch the championship at Mercer University in Macon. Senior defender Nathan Tumperi scored the game’s first goal off a corner kick early in the first half.

The championship was the third in Decatur history. The Bulldogs won the all-classification title in 1977 and the AA/A championship in 2003.

Congrats!

Cloverleaf School, co-founded by Decatur residents Susan Campbell Anderson and her husband, Mark Ledden, recently expanded to a site north of Decatur. The school specializes in teaching elementary and middle school students with learning challengs. Learn more at cloverleafschool.org

Dynamo Swim School offers year-round swimming lessons in Decatur at Agnes Scott College!

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Kay’s Kookies

Thinking Outside the Cookie Box 25 varieties of hand-crafted gourmet cookies, made with real butter and high quality ingredients www.kayskookies.com KKookieCo@gmail.com 404-808-9608 JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 21

School News Friends School Named an Official Monarch Waystation

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he Friends School of Atlanta (FSA) has recently earned the distinction of being named an official Monarch Waystation.

The project has been a labor of love for FSA second graders, and they are currently sharing and teaching other students at the school about the project.

Three years ago, FSA second grade teachers wanted to find a way to better connect students to nature and conservation while also improving their scientific and language arts skills. The second graders started by planting milkweed, only to find that they had inadvertently planted the wrong kind. No monarchs arrived that year. During the second year of monarch studies, the students formed a collaboration with the fifth graders and, together, learned more about native and non-native milkweed varieties. To everyone’s delight, adult mon-

archs began to visit the school on their way to Mexico, the monarch’s winter migration destination.

This year the class planted milkweed and celebrated as caterpillars arrived for the first time. The children joyfully counted more than 30 caterpillars. They brought them in-

side, watched them grow and transform, and ultimately come out of their magical homes – their chrysalises.

The final stage involved tagging and releasing the monarchs into the school’s Community Garden. The children cheered wildly as the monarchs took flight.

Collaboration between the second and fifth graders continues as they work together to create seed dispersal models in the school’s Innovation Lab. The school continues to work with the organization Monarch Watch to learn more about how to create, conserve and protect monarch habitats.

The students and teachers at FSA have worked tirelessly to help monarchs over the past three years, and are overjoyed that their labors will allow them to continue to support and grow the monarch population for years to come.

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Around Town Winnona Park first grader Grace Campbell raised almost $700 at her fundraising event, “Popsicles for Dyslexia.” All funds were donated to REAP (Reading Is Essential for All People). REAP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving reading proficiency in all public school students through teacher training. REAP provides public school teachers with specialized training that reinforces the foundation of reading.

These training approaches are helpful for any child, in any classroom, and are especially critical for struggling readers. Visit readingisessential.org for more information.

Thank you to the Zay ac family for bidding on the Decatur police for the College Heigh package ts Early Childhood Lea rning Center silent au package included “Lu ction. The nch with the Chief.” Ch ief Booker especially hanging out with the enjoyed se two little guys.

Village Zik Da and Med Sod, two Global nmar Mya from ents stud gee School refu ege this who will attend Agnes Scott Coll rs from fall, were awarded laptop compute Decatur Education Foundation.

JULY-AUGUST 2016 • Decatur Focus | 23

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