Decatur Focus Newsletter June 2016

Focus

INSIDE: FACE to FACE with

City of Decatur

Decatur’s Greenspace Clear zone

JUNE 2016 Volume 26 • Number 10

Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia

LEBRATE JULY 4 | VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL CONFIGURATIONS

Join the Parade

Enjoy the Concert

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

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

News 3 City

7 BUsiness NEWs

13 DBA NEWs

The parade begins at 6 p.m. The Concert on the Square starts at 7 p.m. in the Community Bandstand and features the Callanwolde Concert Band. Fireworks begin at dark (approximately 9 p.m.).

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

Thanks to corporate sponsor Xfinity and the Decatur Business Association for their contributions.

Around School 18 DECATUR EVENTs 23 Town news 20

Focus City of Decatur

ADUs – a Smart Growth Solution to ‘Missing Middle’ Housing Needs

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n ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is an additional, self-contained dwelling on a single-family lot. It can be attached, such as in the lower level of the main dwelling, or detached at the rear of the property, such as above the garage. An ADU is smaller in size than the main dwelling, but is maintained under the same ownership of the property and cannot be a fee simple condo.

These smaller units represent the “missing middle,” filling the gap between single-family homes and multi-unit dwellings downtown. While ADUs are not the sole answer to Decatur’s missing middle, they represent a big step in the right direction. Residents of ADUs contribute to the vitality of the community, and the additional income from ADUs makes it possible for more families to own and maintain a home in the city.

The primary markets for ADUs are young professionals and older residents with fixed incomes who are interested in an affordable rental option in a traditional neighborhood setting.

ADUs are often occupied by aging parents whose children live in the main dwelling. Conversely, an ADU may be occupied by an adult child of the homeowner who is looking to start an independent lifestyle and yet remain in the community.

Trends also show that the ADU is often owner-occupied, with the main dwelling rented out.

In some cases, the original homeowner builds a smaller, one-story ADU to make it easier to age in place, and rents the main house for income and to house caregivers if needed. Either way, the owner has a source of income from the rental unit, with an option to remain in the neighborhood — and a healthy, intergenerational mix is maintained in the community.

ADUs as a housing type became effective in February 2015 under the new Decatur Unified Development Ordinance. They are allowed in most single-family and multi-family residential zoning districts – R-85, R-60, R-50, RM-18, RM-22, and RM-43. One ADU per primary dwelling unit is possible if the lot conforms to the minimum size requirements of its zoning district.

Other considerations: • An ADU may be developed in or to the rear of an existing or new main dwelling.

• To keep true to its accessory size, an ADU may have a floor area between 300 and 800 square feet, and should not exceed 40 percent of the floor area of the main dwelling.

• An ADU may have up to two bedrooms and no more than two occupants.

• The owner of the property is required to reside in either the main dwelling or the ADU for at least eight months of the year.

• If detached from the main dwelling, an ADU must be located in the rear yard and have a footprint no greater than 30 percent of the rear yard.

Focus on Community Development

continued on page 3 Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, or by email to decaturfocus@decaturga.com.

2 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

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

Clear zone

DECATUR CITY COMMISSION Patti Garrett...................................................Mayor 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 Comprehensive Planning Session Results to Be Presented

Congratulations!

Decatur Firefighters Promoted to Lieutenant

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fter three months of successful public input, Decatur’s Comprehensive Planning process takes its next step forward this month with a public wrap-up meeting to present findings.

Come and hear a presentation on all the public feedback as it pertains to economic development, transportation, land use, housing, and natural and cultural resources.

Georgia communities are required by law to perform Comprehensive Planning to ensure a minimum level of planning standards and procedures.

Because Decatur’s culture of planning far exceeds what’s mandated by the state, the Comprehensive Plan process is used as an opportunity to do a midterm checkup of the strategic goals and accomplishments spelled out in our far more extensive Strategic Plan, which is scheduled to be updated in 2020.

Stay updated on the Comprehensive Plan process via the city’s website, decaturnext.com, and in future issues of the Decatur Focus. For more information, contact Angela Threadgill, 678-553-6575, or angela.threadgill@ decaturga.com.

Public Wrap-Up Meetings in June Wednesday, June 8 • 7-8 p.m.

Decatur Recreation Center 231 Sycamore St. Tuesday, June 14 • 7 p.m.

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

Corey Jay

Kevin Rice

City of Decatur Firefighters Corey Jay and Kevin Rice were recently promoted to lieutenant.

Corey Jay lives in Gwinnett County, but grew up in Miami. He is a first-generation firefighter, currently in his ninth year in public safety. Kevin Rice lives in Baldwin, Ga. As a young child he lived near fire stations and loved to watch firefighters train. He attended Gwinnett Fire College to obtain his EMT-Intermediate certification and has been a firefighter for 15 years.

Focus on Community Development continued from page 2 • If the ADU is combined with the garage, the total floor area may be up to 1,000 square feet.

• In combination with the main dwelling, the total floor area should not exceed 40 percent of the lot area.

• Similarly, in combination with the main dwelling, the total lot coverage should not exceed 40 percent of the lot area.

As a housing option, ADUs demonstrate the values of inclusivity, diversity, and affordability promoted by the City of Decatur.

They serve to fill a gap in Decatur’s housing

Focus Combines July-August Issues

market by providing a new, neighborhoodscale rental housing option for those looking for affordable living arrangements in a more traditional single-family-home setting. They also provide additional income for older residents who wish to age in place.

The City of Decatur continues to support and explore a variety of housing options for all income levels and demographics. For more information about ADUs and how to build behind your home, contact Angela Threadgill, 678-553-6575, or angela.threadgill@decaturga.com.

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

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 3

City News Congratulations City of Decatur Firefighter Jeffrey Calvert graduated at the top of his class from the fire academy.

FY 2015-16 Budget Schedule Here are important tentative dates in the budget schedule for the City of Decatur’s fiscal year 2016-2017 budget process, subject to City Commission approval. The public hearings will be held at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough St. June 6 • 7:30 p.m. Public hearing on Proposed FY 2016-17 Budget and Revised 2015-16 Budget and 2016 Millage Rate June 13 • 6 p.m. Public hearing on 2016 Millage Rate June 20 • 7:30 p.m. Public hearing and scheduled adoption of Proposed FY 2016-17 Budget and Revised 2015-16 Budget and adoption of final 2016 Millage Rate.

Copies of the FY 2016-17 Proposed Budget and FY 2015-16 Revised Budget are available at Decatur City Hall and at the Decatur Library on Sycamore Street. The budget is also available at decaturga.com/budget.

Following a formal presentation of the budget to the Decatur City Commission, the city will publish a legal advertisement with more detailed information about the budget amounts and again identify the public hearing dates. If you have questions or need additional information, contact Meredith Roark, Budget and Performance Measurement manager, 404-370-4102, or meredith.roark@decaturga.com. Check decaturga.com/budget for updates to the schedule and the online budget.

Decatur for a Lifetime Online: Resources for All Stages of Life Bizzy Bee to the Rescue!

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ed bugs are a problem experienced all over the country, from expensive hotels to movie theaters. When bed bugs invaded the home of a Decatur senior citizen, her daughter contacted the MLK Service Project for help because her mother’s caregiver could not come back until the situation was resolved. The MLK Service Project appreciates how Bizzy Bee Exterminators came to the rescue!

Visit bizzybeeexterminators.com or call 770-787-3718 for more information on the variety of services they provide.

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he Lifelong Community Advisory Board’s Communication Committee has compiled a list of resources and services to help residents through various stages of their lives.

If you need to know whom to contact to help you through a challenging time, the resource list can point you in the right direction. It provides information on: • Support groups (caregivers, grief/bereavement, divorce, addictions, and more) • Help for individuals with, and families of those who have, differing abilities (physical and intellectual) • Discounts for senior citizens • 24-hour assistance hotlines • Housing and transportation options • Many additional resources.

If you are familiar with other resources or services that are not listed, please let us know so we can update the list. Visit decaturga.com/lifelong or look under the “Residents” tab of the Decatur website to link to the list. For more information or to provide additional resources, contact Lee Ann Harvey, Lifelong Community coordinator, leeann.harvey@decaturga.com or 678-553-6548.

Floodplain Information

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ecatur’s Design, Environment and Construction Division provides general floodplain information on property located within the incorporated city limits. The Decatur Library also provides references on flooding and flood protection.

A map and information service is available for a $10 fee. This service provides inquirers with flood insurance rate map information and identifies whether a property is in a special hazard area. An accurate street address or DeKalb County/Decatur Tax Parcel Identification number is needed to obtain this information. Call 404-377-6198 or email jennings.bell@ decaturga.com.

4 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

City News Help CYS by Visiting the Georgia Aquarium

Take advantage of a 20 percent discount when visiting the Georgia Aquarium and support Decatur’s Children and Youth Services (CYS) summer camps at the same time.

CYS programs earn one free admission for use by a future camper for every 25 tickets purchased online through georgiaaquarium. org/idiscover.

General admission includes admission to the aquarium, AT&T Dolphin Celebration, Under the Boardwalk sea lion presentation in the newest gallery, SunTrust Pier 225, and the interactive gallery experience Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery Zone.

Print tickets at home or bring your confirmation number to will call and reserve your show times.

Golden Gloves Boxing at Ebster Ebster Recreation Center recently hosted the 2016 Golden Gloves Georgia State Boxing Championship tournament. Youths 8-18 years old competed in 50 boxing matches to advance to regionals in Tennessee. Heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, whose son boxed in the tournament, came out to support the event.

Decatur Artway Call for Artists

CORRECTION Congratulations to Mike Booker, Kris Boyett, Fred Jones, David Junger, and Kerry Williams for their 25 years of service to the City of Decatur. The May Focus listed them each as having completed 20 years of service.

Fourth of July Solid Waste and Recycling Services Regular services for Monday, July 4, will be on Tuesday, July 5.

Regular services for Tuesday, July 5, will be on Wednesday, July 6.

Something We Had to Go Through by James Davis

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he Decatur Outdoor Artway will kick off its second year this fall by adding five more sculptures in and around Oakhurst.

The Artway began in 2015 and currently features five sculptures in downtown Decatur. The Arts Alliance has issued a Call for Artists for sculptures to be placed in and around Oakhurst for the two-year temporary exhibition. Artists will be awarded a $2,000 honorarium and the installed work may be available for sale. The sculpture must be available for the duration of the two-year contract. All submissions must be professionally constructed of durable materials that will withstand the elements. All durable outdoor media are encouraged.

The deadline for submission is June 15, and the jury will make the selection of the sculptures in July. For information visit decaturartsalliance.org.

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 5

City News Decatur Awards for Outstanding Projects

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n May, the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission announced the 2016 Decatur Design Awards. The event recognized outstanding projects in Decatur in the categories of historic preservation, additions, commercial construction, residential construction, sustainability and energy efficiency, landscape, and public/ institutional buildings.

The awards ceremony is held in May to honor National Preservation Month. The City of Decatur and the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission express their appreciation for the quality of these projects in the city.

This year’s winners included:

239 Cambridge Ave.

Project Address Award Category 239 Cambridge Ave. (residence)

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

215 N. Candler St. (residence)

New Residential Construction

211 Kings Highway (residence)

Additions

331 Kings Highway (residence)

Additions

211 S. McDonough St. (residence)

New Residential Construction

238 Olympic Place (residence)

New Residential Construction and Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

1002 E. Ponce de Leon Ave. (residence) Additions 128 Superior Ave. (residence)

Additions

2635 Talley St., Leveritt Public Works Building (city facility)

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

116 E. Trinity Place

116 E. Trinity Place (Trinity Mercantile) Historic Commercial Rehabilitation 420 W. Trinity Place, Beacon Municipal Center (city facility)

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

For more information on the Decatur Design Awards, contact Angela Threadgill, angela. threadgill@decaturga.com.

215 N. Candler St. 128 Superior Ave.

211 S. McDonough St.

6 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

Business and Nonprofit News SALUTE! Accolades and Awards for Decatur Residents Erin Johnson Receives the Sally Wylde Cultivating Life Award

Wylde Center Director Stephanie Van Parys with Erin Johnson, Britt Dean, and Laura Pitts

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rin Johnson, chair of the Winnona Park Elementary School PTA Farm to School/ School Garden Committee, has received the Wylde Center and City of Decatur’s 2016 Sally Wylde Cultivating Life Award. She was honored for her volunteer efforts with the Winnona Park Elementary School Grounds Committee, Trees Atlanta, and the Field of Greens Festival.

Erin has served as the committee chair since 2013, has led numerous workday events with parents, and has engaged students by coordinating garden planting and tasting events. This year, she planned and led an expansion of the school’s butterfly garden with students and parents, and also coordinated the beautification of an area of the school’s grounds where many families walk their children. The community has benefited from Erin’s caring and knowledgeable leadership that serves as a bridge between Farm to School and the teaching community.

The award is named for Sally Wylde, who passed away in 2010 and whose family was honored with the first award. Previous winners include Louise Jackson, co-founder of Oakhurst Garden; Greg Levine for his work with Trees Atlanta; sustainability leader Frank Burdette; and the Morse family, who donated the Decatur property now known as Woodlands Garden.

Brent Adams Named Private Bank President, Banking Veteran Judy Turner Retires

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rivate Bank of Decatur President Judy Turner retired May 31 and is succeeded by Brent Adams. Judy will remain active as a member of the bank’s board of advisors and Brent will continue to oversee business development for the entire bank. Judy also remains executive vice president and senior lending officer for Private Bank of Buckhead, the parent organization.

The bank has added Rachel Bryant as a peak-time teller and personal banker. The Griffin native earned a Adams Turner bachelor of arts degree in art history from Agnes Scott College. She has worked as a graphic designer and visual merchandiser at several of Decatur’s boutique retail stores.

Private Bank of Decatur, now in its fourth year, has been designated a preferred lender by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and includes a dedicated mortgage solutions unit, PrivatePlus Mortgage. The bank is at 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.

Decatur Resident Earns St. Pius Valedictorian Honors Joey Jackson, son of Diane and Cody Jackson of Decatur, was named the 2016 valedictorian of St. Pius X High School in Atlanta.

He will attend Georgia Tech in the fall. The Jacksons have been Decatur residents since 1989.

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 7

Business and Nonprofit News School News

Welcoming Interactive Reception

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elcoming America, whose home base is in Decatur, held its inaugural Welcoming Interactive in April, which included a welcoming reception on the square. This event welcomed guests visiting from all over the world and featured performances by Just Being Garifuna, Bhutanese Artists of Georgia, and Uhuru Dancers and Drummers.

Welcoming America inspires people to build a different kind of community – one that embraces immigrants and fosters opportunity for all.

8 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

Business and Nonprofit News A Living Legacy for Woodlands Greenspace

New Inspirational Gift Shop Opens

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n April, friends, family and neighbors of Louise Cantrell gathered amid spring blossoms to celebrate her life and her generosity to her community. Louise made a decision as she drew up her will: to leave the majority of her estate to the newly formed Woodlands Garden.

At the time Louise made this decision she could not have foreseen the transformative impact of her gift. Last year the garden hired its first full-time executive director, purchased adjacent Clairemont Avenue property, and completed a successful grass roots capital campaign. These accomplishments positioned Woodlands to fully realize its potential as a vital community resource and amenity.

Louise’s bequest will enable Woodlands to perform long-lasting infrastructure upgrades, making it more accessible and enjoyable for neighbors and visitors. Her generosity creates a living legacy by helping to preserve the greenspace and wildlife habitat at Woodlands.

Louise Cantrell was born in 1924 and spent most of her life in Decatur. After graduating from Girls High, she entered Agnes Scott College. World War II began months after she began college and D-day occurred shortly after her graduation. The impact of the war on Louise and her classmates is stated in the preface to their senior yearbook: “The world will need the skills . . . understanding and tolerance that our studies have brought. Most of all, the world, in all its chaos and despair, will need the courage and faith in the future that stem only from those who know that the things they are living for are truly worthwhile.”

Upon graduation, Louise began a lifetime of giving to her community and building for the future by serving as an elementary school teacher. She developed a passion for gardening, creating an English garden at her home on Ponce de Leon Place.

For more information visit woodlandsgarden.org.

Woodlands is a destination for families and an educational resouce for Decatur school students

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ight My Spirit (LMS) is a nonprofit organization established by two artists who are passionate about their work and about empowering the community. Located in East Decatur Station, it is part gift shop, part inspirational center, and part volunteer organization. The shop offers independent artists’ works, one-of-a-kind jewelry, gemstones, crystals, fine art prints, meditation and spiritual tools, candles, and more. A portion of the sales helps provide nutritious food to displaced community neighbors.

LMS started from the united passions of Jala Wildgoose and Marilyn Nieves. Both believe in living a purposeful life and empowering others.

Jala is a jewelry designer. Her mission is to create jewelry people will love and use as tools to help manifest their desires. Her passion is reflected in all designs, with a focus on the healing properties of each stone.

Learn more about her pieces and process at withmyintention.com.

Marilyn is a lifestyle and portrait photographer. She helps business owners create visual presences that support their brands. Her work includes capturing each client’s essence and beauty through portraiture. View her work at suspendedimage.com.

For more information about LMS gift shop hours, upcoming workshops, and volunteer opportunities visit lightmyspirit.com.

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 9

Business and Nonprofit News Sidewalk

Talk

m News fro ’s r u t Deca t storefron d n a s shop ts n a r u a rest

Shake Up Your Milkshake at Ted’s Montana Grill

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hake up your milkshake by adding a twist to ordinary ice cream with Ted’s Adult Shake selections. Enjoy a mix of sweet and savory with the salted caramel milkshake: Häagen-Dazs ice cream, Jack Daniel’s, salted caramel and whipped cream.

Or indulge in The Slide with Kahlua: Absolut vodka, Baileys, half-andhalf and chocolate syrup blended with Häagen Dazs vanilla, topped with whipped cream.

Ted’s Montana Grill, 201 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., also offers family-friendly shakes, malts and floats. Visit tedsmontanagrill.com for information.

Maxim Barbers Now Open Mondays Maxim’s barber Diane, and their newest addition Stephen are now available for clients on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Scholastic Summer Reading Road Trip July 23 • 3-5 p.m.

The Scholastic Summer Reading Road Trip is coming to Little Shop of Stories. A custom RV will visit the shop bringing a “pop up” reading festival with it. Kids and families can take photos with Clifford the Big Red Dog, enjoy prizes and giveaways, meet authors and illustrators, and engage in reading, crafts, and activities.

10 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Build your baby’s brain by participating in “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” at the DeKalb County Public Library. The program provides parents and caregivers support and incentives to read early, and often, with their babies and toddlers.

Come to the Decatur Library to receive your participation bag, or get more information at dekalblibrary.org/1000books. Sponsored by the DeKalb Library Foundation.

Active Living Lacrosse Team on the Go The Decatur Active Living U9 Lacrosse travel team competed in the recent 2016 MAYLA LAX Tournament in Woodstock, Ga. The team ended the season seventh in the bantam rankings with a 6-1-1 record.

Decatur Police Join Nextdoor The Decatur Police Department has joined Nextdoor, a free private online networking website for neighborhoods.

Nextdoor makes it easy to connect with neighbors and helps build stronger, safer, happier places to call home. Decatur Police will share alerts, updates and information on programs and events with the community. If you are interested, join Nextdoor at nextdoor.com.

Business and Nonprofit News Friends of Decatur Cemetery Welcomes New Superintendent In April Cathy Vogel and David Crenshaw of Friends of Decatur Cemetery welcomed School Superintendent Dr. David Dude and his family to tour the city’s largest greenspace. The cemetery is a great place to learn about the history of Decatur while enjoying a place of peace in the middle of the city. Remember, Second Sunday Strolls continue through October. For more information contact friendsofdecaturcemetery@gmail.com.

Saluting Bike Safety

Commissioner Brian Smith, Mayor Patti Garrett, Public Works Director David Junger, and Commissioner Tony Powers took a moment during a May meeting to salute the winners of Decatur’s bicycle safety poster contest. They are (from left) Ethan Donald (2nd grade, Oakhurst Elementary), Isaiah Guerrieri (2nd grade, Oakhurst Elementary), Caroline Tusher (kindergarten, Glennwood Elementary), and Cara Holecek (kindergarten, Glennwood Elementary).

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 11

Business & Nonprofit News

Did You See That?

The annual Decatur Lantern Parade, a team effort by the Decatur Arts Alliance and the Decatur Education Foundation, filled downtown with paper lanterns, electric lights, music, and smiles on a lucky Friday the 13th in May.

12 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

DBA News Seen at

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JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 13

DBA News

R U T A C DE

IT’S BACK! June 17 • 5-11 p.m.

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elebrate summer at the Decatur Beach Party. No beach? No problem! Decatur makes its own with 60 tons of sand – transforming Ponce de Leon Avenue into Sandcastle Central. Add a kid’s boardwalk, live music and dancing on the plaza, a food court with funnel cakes and fruity drinks, and voilà — you’re in a beach town, Decatur-style, without the sunburn and hours of driving.

Tune into fantastic live jams – Tray Dahl and the Jugtime Ragband will open for the evening’s headliner, Electric Avenue.

Tickets are $12 in advance at freshtix.com and local Decatur retail shops, or $15 at the gate. Children 4-12 years old: $7 in advance, or $10 at the gate. Children 3 and under are free. All children’s activities are included in the admission price.

Visit decaturdba.com, facebook.com/decaturga, or call 678-5536573 for more information. The Decatur Business Association produces the Decatur Beach Party as an annual fundraiser. Proceeds from this event help to fund other free community events, including Concerts on the Square, Blue Sky Concerts, the Easter Egg Hunt, and the Bonfire and Marshmallow Roast.

Interested in volunteering for the Beach Party? Send email to volunteer.decatur@decaturga.com.

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$7 kids 4 12 ¯ $10 at gate

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kids 3 and unde r tickets and m ore at decatu rdba.com

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.indd 1 4/15/16 3:24 PM

JUNE 28 Private Bank of Decatur 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.

Meeting Reminder:

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

Program Sponsors TBA. Visit decaturdba.com for details.

14 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

Thank you to DBA sponsors

Decatur Events Wylde Center’s Annual Beer Garden and Silent Auction Saturday, June 25 • 5:30-8:30 p.m.

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Estate Planning

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Wills & Trusts

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Probate

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njoy a casual evening outdoors at Oakhurst Garden, 435 Oakview Rd., that includes food, music, and local brews. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. Each guest will receive a free souvenir Wylde Center tasting glass so they can sample brews from Terrapin, Three Taverns Brewery, Orpheus Brewing, Wild Heaven Craft Beer, Treehorn Cider, and more. The menu will include tastings from a number of local restaurants, including Farm Burger and Revolution Doughnuts. Live music will be provided by the Benders.

VIP tickets are available for $250 per pair and include additional benefits such as admission to the VIP party (which begins at 4:30 p.m.), access to the sponsor/patron lounge, deck and restrooms, and early bidding on auction items. VIP ticket holders will also enjoy signature cocktails by Kimball House, hors d’oeuvres by Revival, and desserts by Proof Bakeshop.

The event also features a silent auction with items such as vacation getaways, restaurant gift certificates, spa packages, and more.

All attendees must be at least 21 years old. The Beer Garden is presented

by Chip Wallace of Keller Knapp Realty and the Beer Garden Silent Auction and Fundraiser is sponsored by Russell-Herrera Attorneys at Law, Stability Engineering, Classic Tents and Events, Beth Mahany CPA, Caplan Cobb LLP, Decatur CoWorks, Private Bank of Decatur, and Cassedy Coaching and Consulting. All tickets are available at wyldecenter-beergarden.squarespace.com.

The event will be held rain or shine.

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JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 15

Decatur BusinessEvents & Nonprofit News Amplify Decatur Festival Showcases Emerging and Local Bands

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he Amplify Decatur festival will showcase emerging and local bands in a free daytime concert, noon3 p.m. The lineup includes Kristen Englenz, the Bitteroots, the Dammages, and Magic Birds.

The nighttime festival, 5-11 p.m., will require tickets and will feature performances by the Milk Carton Kids, Elephant Revival, Penny and Sparrow, and Eliot Bronson. The nighttime event will also include food trucks and craft beer. Re-entry will be permitted, allowing attendees to access Decatur’s bars and restaurants.

Tickets are available at amplifydecatur.org for $30. Premium seating is available for $45; VIP tickets are $100 and include preferred seating, complimentary beverages, and other benefits.

ta Moon, Dwayne Shivers with Anthony Aparo, and Abbie Gardner and Jesse Terry. Sunday, June 19, will include “Let’s Go Crazy,” a Prince cover night featuring 10 local and regional acts.

Full information is available at eddiesattic.com.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of Eddie’s Attic, which helped launch the careers of the Indigo Girls, John Mayer, Shawn Mullins, and more. The Attic was founded by Eddie Owen and most recently owned by Alex Cooley, until his death in January.

Amplify My Community is grateful for the support of the City of Decatur, the Decatur Downtown Development Authority and the Decatur Business Association.

Festival proceeds will go to Decatur Cooperative Ministry, whose mission is to help families facing homelessness settle into safe, stable homes and build healthy lives filled with peace, hope and opportunity. For more information visit decaturcooperativeministry.org.

More Amplify at Eddie’s Attic Amplify Decatur will also present a three-night stand at Eddie’s Attic, 515 N. McDonough St., PBD.Ad.DecaturFocus2014_vF_Layout 1 6/17/14 11:11 AM Page 1 June 17-19. Bands include: the Roosevelts, Del-

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16 | Decatur Focus • JUNE 2016

Decatur Events

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

A

ll Decatur residents, and everybody else, too, are invited to walk in the Decatur Lantern Parade on the evening of Friday, May 15. This is one of those “the-more-the-merrier” events, so plan now to participate and be a part of helping to make this lantern parade memorable.

Make your own lantern at home or come to a lantern-making workshop where supplies and guidance are provided. Find out where and when by visiting decaturlanternparade.com.

To participate, line up at Color Wheel Studio at 508 E. Howard Ave. after 8 p.m.

The parade steps off at 9 p.m. led by The Black Sheep Marching Ensemble and paSaturday, June Rytter.

25 • 9The a.m.

• Courtyard at Beacon Municipal Center rade guru Chantelle parade Join Cheryl Burnette of Decatur Active Living to welcome in the lonwill wend its way to the community gest day of the year with a Summer Solstice Yoga practice. Throughout bandstand in front of the Old Courthistory, many cultures have associated the summer solstice with a house on the square. renewal of mind, body and spirit.

Our celebration is free, but we will acThe parade is sponsored by Color cept donations for the Decatur Youth Fund.

Bring a mat and water. Rain Wheel Studio, Decatur Arts Alliance, location: Ebster Gym. Decatur Education Foundation, and For more information contact cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com. the Decatur Development Authority.

Celebrate the Summer Solstice with Yoga

Flatpicker Norman Blake Kicks Off Concert Series

B

luegrass legend Norman Blake DECATUR kicks off a new concert series at the DHS performing arts center on Sunday, June KICKS OFF JU NE 5, 2016 5, at 3 p.m. For more than 60 years Blake has DECATUR played in a number HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER of folk and country NormaN Blake / Blue grass 310 N. MCD ONO UGH ST. groups. He has played TICKETS $2 BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLI 5 backup for Johnny FRESHTIX.CONEMAT D E C ATURMUSICPR Cash, June Carter, Bob OJECT.COM Dylan, Steve Earle, Kris PRESENTED BY Kristofferson, Ralph Stanley, and Joan Baez.

The concert series is curated by Eddie Minjarez of Guitar Decatur and sponsored by Decatur Development Authority, Decatur Arts Alliance, and Guitar Decatur.

Tickets are available online at freshtix.com.

MUSIC PROJECT SUNDAY 3PM

For more than 60 years blueg rass legend Norman Blake has played with ber of folk and a numcountry group s including Johnny Cash, June Carter, and Bob Dylan.

Come hear this master acoustic flatpicker as he kicks off this new music series.

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JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 17

School News Glennwood 3rd Graders ‘Tour’ Georgia

113 Clairemont Ave.

Sherry Drop by or Jackman check out the Visitors Center Manager

T

he 3rd grade students at Glennwood Elementary participated in an expedition called “A Tour Through Georgia.” The guiding question was “How does Georgia’s geography affect Georgia’s biography?” Students studied the five regions of Georgia and each region’s habitat. As a final product, students created a brochure on a chosen region. The objective was to provide information on the region and persuade visitors to go. To provide students with an authentic audience, Glennwood teachers collaborated with the Decatur Visitors Center so the brochures could be put on display for use by the public.

Visit Decatur 113 Clairemont Ave.

blog for news about events, Decatur, GA 30030 shopping, dining, and performances.

678-615-0915 visitdecaturgeorgia.com sherry.jackman@decaturga.com visitdecaturgeorgia.com

Working for Strong Communities since 1979.

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School News Decatur High Senior Gains Support from Local Businesses

D

ecatur High School senior Sophie Mumper created a coalition of breastfeeding-friendly restaurants for her senior project. Mumper wants to help make Decatur an easier place to raise children by having this coalition. She believes it is important to be accommodating and supportive of the women who are raising future citizens.

Sophie gained support for breastfeeding mothers from these businesses who want to contribute to a welcoming environment: Chai Pani • 406 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. The Corner Pub • 627 E. College Ave. Ducks Cosmic Kitchen • 111 New St. Kavarna • 707 East Lake Dr. La Calavera Bakery • 747-C E. College Ave. Makan • 130 Clairemont Ave., Suite 100 Revolution Donuts • 908 W. College Ave. Revolution Donuts • 745 Edgewood Ave., Inman Park Taziki’s Mediterranean Café • 319 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. Thinking Man Tavern • 537 W. Howard Ave. Wahoo Grill • 1042 W. College Ave.

Decatur High School senior Sophie Mumper

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School News Book Series Inspires Decatur High School Filmmaker

D

ecatur High School sophomore Sierra Isley is a budding filmmaker. With a passion for Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson book series and her love for book-to-film adaptations, Sierra decided to try and appease the throngs of Percy Jackson fans.

After scouting locations, sending out casting calls, and choosing actors, she gathered a crew of student volunteers, including assistant-director Sarah Leonard and Decatur High School students Camille Butera (wardrobe), Mai Allison (makeup), Joel Shimada (cinematography), Keson Graham (photography), Laurel Kostka (actor), Thalia Garoufalidis (actor), Natalie Ashburner-Wright (hair), Will Whatley (actor) and Niki Gajjar (actor).

The video premiered in April and has since been viewed by 12,000 people and counting, including the author Rick Riordan, who shared it across his social media pages. Sierra was so inspired by the overall positive results that she and her crew plan to film scenes from the rest of the books in the series and now have outside organizations assisting in the upcoming projects.

Sierra Isley (in black) directs the cast and crew.

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5/14/14 4:47 PM

School News Clairemont 3rd Graders Encourage Cellphone Recycling

Fo

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lairemont Elementary students made steps towards “doing their part in protecting the environment” by hosting a cellphone recycling drive. The 3rd graders set up shop on the square to collect old cellphones and educate the community on the importance of recycling their old cellphones. The students teamed up with local businesses like Little Shop of Stories, Fleet Feet, and the AT&T store, to collect recycled cellphones for a week.

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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

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JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 21

School News DHS Robotics Team Climbs to the World Championship

G

lobal Dynamics, the DHS Robotics Team, traveled to St. Louis to compete in the 2016 World Robotics Championship in April, after qualifying two weeks earlier at the State Championship in Athens.

For the World Championship, the team had to make some major modifications to their robot so it could complete all the tasks required for the tournament challenge, such as climbing the opponent’s tower and hanging off the ground for at least five seconds at the end of the match.

Teams were allowed to build additional components for their robots, but they had to do so without access to the robot; and the new features had to be added and tested at the event.

The Decatur team was ultimately knocked out in the quarterfinals, but spent the remainder of the tournament gathering new ideas for future robots and looking at new technologies from dozens of companies in the Innovation Faire – companies that are dedicated to STEM education and may be looking to hire these students in the future.

Thanks to the Decatur community and other supporters the team raised $14,000 to cover their registration fees, travel, accommodation, and the supplies to make the necessary modifications in just two weeks.

The team’s donors and supporters include the Decatur Education Foundation, General Electric, Johnson Research and Development, Big Nerd Ranch, Hill Foley Rossi and Associates, Green Light, H&L Engineering, and many generous individual donors.

Senior Sarahn Nazeret and sophomore Emma Jackson make last-minute modifications to the robot before their next match.

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318 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30030 markert@bellsouth.net 404-235-8900 C: 404.915.8222

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Around Town

Darren George, judicial assistant to Chief Judge Berryl A. Anderson, submitted this picture of the DeKalb Courthouse, taken on a spring afternoon in March.

SAVE the DATE hestra

partment The Decatur Police De est new ee thr the s uce od intr lic Pub ng isti Ass CAPS (Citizens t to Lef rs. tee un vol ) ety Saf , Nikki right: Randall Hampton Bivens. rey Co and u, mo no Eco town as Look for them around h events. wit s cer offi ist ass y the

phony Orc Atlanta Sym ur Library at the Decat

Library, The Decatur t St., will presen 216 Sycamore ta n by the Atla a performance h rc estra on Symphony O 30 p.m.

June 14, 7-8:

Alexandria Greene, a new entrepreneur, lau nched her business during We ebly’s “Like a Boss” bus tour that made a stop in De catur, assisting busine ss owners with setting up their websites.

Artists Joey Fillastre and of Felici Asteinza (right) , tive llec Co os agr Mil the ral mu a nt pai selected to ss on the MARTA overpa inic Mu con Bea the near pal Center, attended a May community input meeting, the first of sev ted eral. Groups of interes ir citizens developed the to es lag col own mural to share with the artists e ativ cre the de gui help process (below).

JUNE 2016 • Decatur Focus | 23

DATED MATERIAL June 2016

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