Focus May 2006.indd

In This Issue
Focus on Downtown Development ....... 2
Wilson Recognized by History Center .... 3
Congrats to Decatur 101 Grads ............. 7
From the DBA President ......................... 8
News from Shops and Restaurants....... 9
School News ........................................... 15
New Pete the Cat Panels on Display ... 20
Official Publication of The City of Decatur, Georgia • May 2006 • Volume 16 • Number 9
Decatur Book Festival News ................ 21
Walking and Rolling to School
Decatur Celebrates
the Arts in May
T
he Metro Atlanta Safe Routes to School project is in its second year at Clairemont Elementary and Glennwood 4-5 Academy. The project seeks to improve
the safety of students who walk and bicycle to and from school. At the same
time, it seeks to increase the numbers of school community members – students, parents, and school staff – who “walk and roll” to school.
The project is funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in association with the Federal Highway Administration, and is administered by the Atlanta
Bicycle Campaign. Pictured are participants in the spring Walk and Roll to School
Days. Participants wear bright yellow Walk and Roll T-shirts and neon green or orange
GDOT safety vests, and carry signs that say: “Kids Walking! Slow Down!” and “Walk
and Roll to School – It’s Cool!”
The GDOT-funded project wraps up its work with Clairemont and Glennwood in
December 2006. Results from the pilot study will be compiled into a guidebook for
future Safe Routes to School programs across the state.
May is National Bike Month! We want to remind everyone to share the road.
Watch for schoolchildren riding to school, and for all those participating in Bike
to Work week May15-19. For more information on how you can bicycle around
Decatur check out www.bikedecatur.org. Happy cycling!
May is Celebrate the Arts month in Decatur
with a full calendar that includes concerts,
gallery tours, theater, dance, and culminates
with the Decatur Arts Festival over Memorial
Day weekend. See page 4 for a listing of Arts
Festival Highlights and page 5 for lineups for
May’s Saturday night Concerts on the Road
and Wednesday lunchtime Blue Sky Concerts.
For up-to-the-minute information, visit www.
decaturartsalliance.org or www.decaturga.com
throughout the month.
Coupons!
See pages
10-12
Focus on
Downtown
Development
Good News Keeps Rolling In
Earlier this year Decatur was awarded three TE grants by the Georgia Department of Transportation to extend streetscape improvements and provide additional alternative transportation options. The city submitted four grant applications and was pleased to receive three
awards. These grants will fund the following projects:
1. Downtown Streetscape Program.
Phase V of the downtown streetscape master
plan extends the streetscape improvements
along E. Trinity Place from Chick-Fil-A east
to the Decatur Fire Station and temporary
city hall location. Private sector developments planned for the eastern end of this
corridor will extend streetscapes to the N.
Candler Street intersection. This grant also
includes the extension of streetscape improvements along Church Street from E.
Trinity Place to the railroad tracks.
(Phase IV of the downtown streetscape
master plan was skipped during this round
of funding to allow us to coordinate design
and construction with proposed improvements at Decatur High School. Phase IV
includes a realignment of travel lanes on N.
McDonough between Trinity Place and the
railroad tracks to help calm traffic and improve pedestrian safety. Sidewalks would be
widened, street lamps and street trees added
and separate bike lanes installed on both
sides of the street. We have identified another grant source for this project and plan
to submit an application for the project this
fall. If awarded, the funding cycle should
coincide well with the planned high school
campus improvements.)
2. Oakhurst Business District Program.
The grant will fund the development of a
streetscape master plan for the Oakhurst
business district and the construction of at
least the first phase of streetscape improvements. As with the downtown streetscape
program, this project will focus on sidewalk
improvements, new street trees and street
lamps within the commercial business district.
3. Bicycle Lanes on W. Ponce de Leon
Avenue. This grant provides for the striping of dedicated bicycle lanes on W. Ponce
de Leon Avenue from the city limits to
the intersection with W. Trinity at St.
Thomas More Catholic Church. From
that intersection, the dedicated bicycle lane
will continue along W. Trinity Place to N.
McDonough where cyclists can intersect
with planned streetscape improvements on
N. McDonough in front of Decatur High
School and intersect with the PATH Foundation trail along the railroad tracks.
These funds are awarded in two-year
cycles and we have not received word about
when funds will become available. These
projects are part of Decatur’s strategic plan
and fit well with our long-range goals of improving alternative transportation linkages
between our commercial districts and the
surrounding residential neighborhoods. All
of these projects will provide opportunity
for community input on design and implementation, so stay tuned to the Decatur
Focus for project updates and meeting announcements.
We extend a special thank you to Robert Brown, who represents our district on
the Georgia Department of Transportation
Board of Directors and was instrumental in
getting these funds for the City of Decatur.
Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus,
P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, by fax to 404-371-1593, or by e-mail to lharris@decaturga.com.
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 www.decaturga.com. The
deadline for submitting articles, announcements,
or advertising is the 1st day of the month preceding
publication. Contact: Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O.
Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, 404/371-8386; fax
404/371-1593; e-mail: lharris@decaturga.com.
DECATUR CITY COMMISSION
Bill Floyd ................................................. Mayor
Jim Baskett ............................. Mayor Pro Tem
Fred Boykin .............................. Commissioner
Kecia Cunningham .................. Commissioner
Mary Alice Kemp...................... Commissioner
DECATUR DOWNTOWN
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Board
Sheila Hunt, Chair
Ed Bowen, Vice Chair
Fred Cavalli
Bruce Cohen
John Drake
John Joyner
Jim Philips
Betty Spiker
Decatur Business
Association
DECATUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
Jeff Hancock .................................... President
Jason Conn ............................. President-Elect
Laura Bevins .................................... Treasurer
Neil Dobbs........................................ Secretary
Fred Cavalli...............................Past President
Design and layout: Lampe-Farley Communications
2 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
CITY NEWS
Electronics Recycling Day a Success
Decatur’s second Electronics Recycling Day yielded an excellent response with more than
255 participants. Eighty percent came from the city but others came from as far away as
Duluth, Lilburn, Tucker, Dunwoody, Smyrna, Norcross, Marietta and more locally, Inman
Park, Kirkwood, Avondale Estates, unincorporated DeKalb, Reynoldstown, and Atlanta.
The official recycling certificate states that Decatur recycled 27,566 pounds of metal,
plastic and glass computer housing and peripheral equipment with 201 monitors, 208
PCs, and 23 TVs. The material was processed
at Atlanta Recycling Solutions and sent on
to an appropriate recycling end-market to be
manufactured into recycled content products.
Thanks to all the partners, including
the City of Decatur, Decatur High School,
Atlanta Recycling Solutions, the Waste
Management Advisory Board, and Dreamsan. Watch for announcements of future
electronics recycling events.
Elizabeth Wilson Receives
2006 History Maker Award
Mayor Bill Floyd and DeKalb History Center Board of
Trustees member Judy Turner celebrate with Elizabeth
Wilson as she receives the 2006 History Maker Award
at the Old Courthouse on the Square. Recognizing her
courage and tenacity in integrating the Decatur Library
and Decatur High School, speakers highlighted her accomplishments and Elizabeth’s kind spirit and gentle nature, which brought the community
together and strengthened it.
The DeKalb History Center, in partnership with the Decatur Education Foundation and through the generosity of community leaders and citizens, established the Mary
Elizabeth Brown Wilson scholarship to honor Ms. Wilson’s contributions. Donations of
$10,000 made the scholarship possible. An annual award will be made to a Decatur High
School graduate who has been involved in meaningful community service and exhibits a
strong commitment to achieving his or her educational goals.
Decatur Residents Selected
to Serve on Georgia
Humanities Council
Decatur residents
Dr. John C. Knapp
and Jim Vaseff have
been selected to serve
on the Georgia Humanities Council’s
board of directors.
The board is made
up of civic, business, John Knapp
and academic leaders
and serves as the governing body for the
council.
Dr. Knapp is the founder and president
of the Southern Institute for Business and
Professional Ethics, a nonprofit resource
for business and community leaders working to promote ethics and integrity in
organizations. As a nationally renowned
expert in organizational ethics, crisis
management and corporate reputation, he
currently serves as senior scholar and professor of ethical leadership at Kennesaw
State University.
Vaseff is a senior urban advisor for
Georgia Power’s Community Development
department, focusing on community revitalization and planning in metro Atlanta.
He has directed and participated in several
projects implementing smart-growth strategies around the city.
The Georgia Humanities Council
(www.georgiahumanities.org) serves the
state of Georgia through its projects and
grant programs. The council believes the
humanities to be vital to the continued
health and prosperity of society. It supports
educational activities that help Georgians
learn about their heritage.
Holiday Sanitation
Schedule
Memorial Day – Monday, May 29
Normal Monday services will be on
Tuesday, May 30
Normal Tuesday services will be on
Wednesday, May 31
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 3
CITY NEWS
Be a t
par t!
of i
Scenes from the 2005
Decatur Arts Festival
Drummers on the courthouse square
FESTIVAL EVENTS AND DATES AT A GLANCE
Poster Unveiling
May 4
Old Courthouse on the Square
Doors of Decatur
May 20-27
On the Square
Decatur Civic Chorus
May 21
First Baptist Church
Literary Arts Festival
May 22, 23, 24
May 26
May 27-28
Decatur Library
Holiday Inn Select
Courthouse Lawn
Fine Arts Exhibition
May 23-June 4
Agnes Scott College
ArtWalk
May 26
Various sites
New Dance
May 26-28
Beacon Hill Arts Center
Children’s Arts Festival
May 27
Scott Park
Concert on the Square
May 27
Community Bandstand
Artists Market
May 27-28
Around the Old Courthouse
Performing Arts Stage
May 27-28
Community Bandstand
Doors of Decatur
Plan now to be a part of it! For more information, look for an arts festival program around
Decatur or visit www.decaturartsalliance.org
The artists market
The children’s arts festival
4 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Children take a break at the bandstand
The performing arts stage
CITY NEWS
May 6
COLUMBIA SEMINARY
DeKalb Symphony Orchestra
Co-sponsor: Sharian, Inc.
Presents
May 13
HARMONY PARK
Fletcher Dozier & Contagious
Co-sponsor: DeKalb Bar Association –
Trial Lawyers Section
May 20
AGNES SCOTT
Morgan Rowe Band
Co-sponsor: WebXperts.com
Saturdays
in May
7-9:30 pm
Decatur Business
Association
May 27
BANDSTAND ON THE SQUARE
Lekan Funk & Soul
Co-sponsor: Oakhurst
Business Association
For a map of venues and more information, visit www.decaturga.com
May 3 • David Guillory
one-man band
Co-sponsors: Jenkins Cycle & Mower,
Holy Trinity Parish Pre-school
May 10 • Jennifer Daniels
singer-songwriter
Co-sponsor: Sharian, Inc.
May 17 • Morgan Rowe
404-371-9583 • www.decaturga.com • 24-Hour Events Hotline
404-371-8262
singer-songwriter
Co-sponsor: Sharian, Inc.
May 24 • Lauren Barrett duo
pop
SPONSORED BY
Co-sponsor: Jenkins Cycle & Mower
May 31 • Tom Wolf
singer-songwriter
Wednesdays in May, Noon until 1 p.m. at the
community bandstand on the square in downtown Decatur
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 5
ART EVENTS
Lunchtime Series Explores Visual Art in Dance Making
Several Dancers Core will close out its sixth season of Lunchtime in the Studio on Wednesday, May 17, noon-1 p.m., in the studio at 139 Sycamore St. The free lunchtime session,
on “visual art as inspiration for dance making,” will offer community members a chance to
experience behind-the-scenes aspects of CORE Performance Company’s collaborative creative process, especially in connection with visual art.
Free lunch, donated by area restaurants and Starbucks Decatur, is provided to the first
40 audience members. Call 404-373-4154 or visit www.severaldancerscore.org for more
information.
Happenings at The Seen Gallery
Friday Nights at The Seen. Performing arts are presented each Friday evening, 8:3010:30, by various artists. Free. Complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres served.
Intimate Patterns, an installation by Joanna Stecker,
opens Saturday, May 20, 7-10 p.m., and runs through
June 15. The installation combines functional ceramic
work and textiles to set a scene of personal decadence.
Sweet Decadence and More, by David Hansford, opens Saturday, May 27, 7-10 p.m., and runs
through June 15. Hansford works in acrylics and
mixed media. His art focuses on natural forms, closely
viewed, which allow for organic shapes and patterns to
emerge.
From May into summer, Sycamore
Place Gallery offers a variety of new opportunities for art lovers of all ages to
enjoy the arts.
Exhibit
Photography from South of the Border: May 5-28.
Workshop
Handmade Recycled Papermaking
Workshop, taught by Katy Dement,
is currently accepting registrations
for May 20.
Summer Art Camps
A limited number of students, ages 310 years, are currently being accepted:
May 31-June 2 • Creating Cave
Paintings
“Sweet Decadence,” David Hansford
Playwrights and . . . A series of readings by Working Title Playwrights (WTP) writers continues with Jill Patrick’s Eating the Singletaries: Tales From a Tall Redhead. Patrick’s
presentation is the third in the series and the hour-long event will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 7:30 p.m., at The Seen. Admission is free and complimentary wine and
cheese will be served. For information on the WTP series call 404-297-0904 or email
workingtitle@sbcglobal.net.
The Seen Gallery is at 321 W. Hill St., Suite 7A. Visit www.theseengallery.com or call
404-377-0733 for information.
Shops, Restaurants, Galleries Celebrate the Arts in May
Boogaloos and MarianneB Catch New Spring Colors
Boogaloos Boutique and MarianneB have joined to catch the 2006 spring colors in fashions
and paintings. They will feature new artistic designs for jewelry as well as fine art. Come and
browse the exhibition at the Meet the Artist reception on Saturday, May 20, 4-7 p.m.
Boogaloos Boutique is at 246 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. Call 404-373-3237. Regular hours
are Sunday, 11-5; Monday-Saturday, 11-7. The celebration is sponsored by Boswell Gallery.
Arts Festival Wine Tasting with Boswell Gallery and Café Lily
Boswell Gallery and Café Lily invite you in for complimentary wine tasting featuring some
of their most popular selections, from 4 to 7 p.m. during the Decatur Arts Festival. The
gallery will feature new spring inspired works from Dawn Kinney Martin, John Tindel and
photography by David Swerdlow.
Boswell Gallery is located between Café Lily and Levi’s, at 153 Ponce de Leon Place.
Call 404-377-4778 or visit www.boswellgallery.com for information.
6 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Sycamore Place Gallery
Announces Exhibits,
Classes and Art Camps
June 5-9 • Painting to Jazz: Bearden
June 12-16 • Abstract Expressionism, Pollack
June 19-23 • Paris T-Party: Picasso
& Matisse
June 26-30 • Making Paint:Wyeth
July 5-7 • Artist Books and the
Surreal Sea
July 10-14 • Cartooning the comics
July 17-21 • Mexican Murals: Kahlo
& Rivera
July 24-28 • ARTchitecture
July 31-August 4 • Hat Fashions!
August 7-11 • Chinese Paper and
Tea
Paper, Print & Prose Art Camps
Katy Dement offers two one-week
camps for ages 11-15, June 19-23 and
June 26-30, 1-4 p.m. $135 for one
week.
Sycamore Place Gallery is at 120
Sycamore Place. To register call 404352-5938 or 404-377-7747, or email
sycsyl@yahoo.com.
CITY NEWS
Congratulations to Decatur 101 Graduates
The City of Decatur recently awarded diplomas to its two newest groups of Decatur 101
graduates. The overwhelming popularity of the program, designed to educate citizens
about city government, led the city to conduct two groups of 35 citizens through the series of five two-hour classes. One class met in the morning, the other in the evening.
The goals of Decatur 101 are twofold:
• To increase the number of informed and involved citizens in Decatur; and
• To “put a face” on local government, making it more accessible to the community.
Each two-hour session focuses on a specific area of government. The sessions and tours
are conducted in various city buildings, including the fire station, public works building,
city hall, and the recreation center.
The class is free and open to the first 35 participants. For more information or to register for evening or morning classes, email lharris@decaturga.com or call 404-371-8386.
Mayor Bill Floyd congratulates Melanie Stevenson on
her completion of the program.
The morning class: Richard Adams, Barbara Allen, Kristin Allin, Gail Daily,
Sean Dammann, Dwight Damon, June Damon, Kathleen Everett, Ron Everett,
Nan Franklin, Jo Giraudo, Joshua Gray, Bill Kaiser, Catherine Lee, Allison M.
Lehman, Richard Lenz, Robert McLemore, Kelli Meier, Frances Moriarity, Liz
O’Brien, Mary Kay O’Malley, Norma Palus, Sara Lee Parker, Andy Phelan,
Rebecca Rakoczy, Barb Rowland, Elizabeth Selzer, Nancie Sill, Thomaysa
B. Stinson, Beth Thompson, Christine Topoulos, Nancy Tyson, Stephanie
Wansley,
The evening class: Dana Mercer-Argroves, Jeremy Argroves, Mark Arnold,
Stephanie Berkule, Bob Biebel, Mark Bussey, Bryan Chitwood, Jodi Chitwood,
Soren Christiansen, Sarah Christiansen, Jodi Florence, Michelle Hall, Ruth
Hanners, Carol Holley, Jennifer Huggins, Ann C. Hunter, John Keys, Linda Lael,
Joy Martin, Kristin McCarver, Ben McKenzie, Sara Mercader, Linda M. Noble,
John Painter, Joe Perz, Sydney Roberts, Carol Rubin, Don Rubin, Steven
Salcedo, Melanie Stevenson, Ann Viers, Joyce Washington, Aimee Wise,
James Wordeman, Madeline Zavodny,
Sean Woodson shows the public works maintenance facility to the p.m. class.
Winners of the a.m. session’s budget game enjoy the thrill of victory.
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 7
DBA NEWS
May Is All About the Music
FROM THE DBA PRESIDENT
The 2006 Decatur Business Association
Membership Directory (pictured below) is
hot off the press and available for anyone who
would like a copy. The directory contains information about all member businesses, our
special events, and more. If you would like a
Jeff Hancock
copy, call 404-371-8386 or email
info@decaturga.com. Be sure to
provide your name and address.
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You can also pick one up at Temporary City Hall, 233 E. Trinity
Place, or at one of our regular
DBA meetings.
Our May meeting will be
held Tuesday, May 23, at Agnes
Scott College in the Dalton
Gallery in conjunction with
the Decatur Arts Alliance. The
program features the kick-off
for the Decatur Arts Festival’s Fine Arts Exhibition. Come and enjoy the reception, networking and fine art.
Networking/Reception begins at 5:15 and the program begins
at 6 p.m. Join us as we celebrate the arts!
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Concerts Still on the Road
Concerts on the Square go on the road once more
this spring as we await the completion of the
MARTA Plaza renovation. Many thanks to Agnes
Scott College, Columbia Seminary, and Oakhurst’s
Harmony Park for hosting us last fall and again this
spring. See page 5 for more information.
Nueve de Mayo at Taste!
Come celebrate with mojitos and more at
Taste in downtown Decatur. Get tips on mixing the perfect drink and add a hint of mint
to your business with tips from the Coaching Connection.
When: Tuesday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Taste, 414 Church St.
Sponsors: GoDeKalb.com, Taste, the Coaching Connection.
8 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
DBA NEWS
Tidbits from Decatur Shops, Restaurants & Services
Eddie’s Attic Offers
Music Room
for Special Events
The music room at Eddie’s
Attic, primarily known for
live music featured nightly, is
also available during daytime
hours (and select evenings)
for special events such as
company meetings, receptions and private parties.
The room has a highquality sound system if you
need PA for your event, and a
wait staff and bartender are available if needed. The patio is also available during evening
hours for more informal gatherings.
Under the ownership of Bob Ephlin, with Eddie Owen (original owner and founder)
as director of operations, Eddie’s Attic seeks to re-establish itself as a true tavern and community center for Decatur – an unpretentious place where all are welcome – with consistently outstanding service, food, and drink. It is located at 515-B N. McDonough St.,
across from the DeKalb County Courthouse.
For more information, call 404-377-4976, ext. 0, after 11 a.m., Monday-Friday, or
email amy@eddiesattic.com.
Drop by the Drop Station
The Drop Station, 743-B E. College
Ave. in East Decatur Station, provides
packing, shipping and shopping services.
They also have consignment items (art,
furniture, home accessories and gifts for
sale. Watch the Focus for more details,
but in the meantime drop by to see
them, call 404-378-2335 or visit www.
thedropstation.com for information.
Decatur Healing Arts News
Michael is back from a month-long
sojourn at the Sivananda Ashram in
Nassau, Bahamas. He is now applying
his newly sharpened Yoga teaching skills
on Sunday and Friday mornings and on
Tuesday evenings.
Mark your calendar for the Decatur
Healing Arts Second Anniversary Open
House, May 13. For information visit
www.decaturhealingarts.com, call 404378-6288, or email Corinne Chaves at
dha@decaturhealingarts.com.
Sage Reminders for May
Steak Night on Thursdays. Enjoy a twocourse Prix Fixe menu featuring a baby
field greens salad with toasted walnuts
and balsamic vinaigrette followed by a
10-ounce grilled Flat Iron Steak (tender
and tasty) with Sage’s frites smothered by
a special three-pepper Au Poivre sauce, all
for $18. Add a Crème Brulee or a glass of
house wine for only $4 more.
Pinot Noirs Are Back. Wednesday, May
3 – come and try some delightful Pinot
Noirs, $15 per person plus tax. Reservations highly recommended.
Mother’s Day and Graduation Weekend.
On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 14, Sage
will serve brunch and dinner. Make your
reservations as soon as possible. Sage
will re-open Monday, May 15, for “after
graduation” celebration luncheons. Reservations highly recommended.
Remember, Sage is only open for
lunch for private parties and on Monday,
May 15. The restaurant plans to resume
lunches in September. It is open for dinner Tuesdays through Sundays as well as
Sunday brunches. Menus are available
online at www.thebistros.com. Sage on
Sycamore is at 121 Sycamore St. Call
404-373-5574 for information.
Coaching Connection
Discusses Relationships
The Coaching Connection will host its
May Food for Thought conversation
on Thursday, May 25, noon-1:15 p.m.
The topic is Relationships. The Coaching Connection is a group of trained and
certified professional life coaches based in
Decatur. To register call 404-373-7615 or
email thecoachingconnection@earthlink.
net.
That Pottery Place Offers
Summer Art Camps
Remember to register for That Pottery
Place’s weekly summer art camps in June
and July. The camps feature a different
theme each week, including travel, nature and garden, safari, and beach. Ages
6-11 enjoy a week filled with activities,
including clay building, pottery painting,
children’s arts and crafts and more. Cost
is $160 per camper with a 10 percent
discount for families with two or more
kids enrolled. Call 404-371-4557 or visit
www.potteryplacedecatur.com to register.
That Pottery Place also offers a 20
percent discount for Moms on Mothers
Day – bring your Mom and enjoy the
pottery painting experience on Sunday,
May 14.
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 9
CLIP AND USE! Visit Decatur shops, boutiques, restaurants and salons for these special offers and discounts. Good
through May 31, 2006. For more coupons, click www.decaturga.com, call 404-371-8386 or visit any Decatur merchant.
$15 off
Free entrée
with entrée purchase!
your purchase of $100 or more!
(Not valid on Fridays or Saturdays,
cannot be used with any other offer.)
EXPIRES 5/31/06
EXPIRES 5/31/06
308 W.Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-371-9119
www.cafelily.com
A neighborhood bistro offering an
eclectic variety of Mediterranean cuisine.
Whether you want a quiet, romantic
dinner for two or just to enjoy a unique
bottle of wine, we strive to accommodate
our customers in every way possible.
Rue de Leon
131 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-373-6200
15% off
$15 off
EXPIRES 5/31/06
EXPIRES 5/31/06
Smart kitchen essentials and
culinary treats for the modern
cook. Let us help you find a
refreshing gift for that clever
bride, baby, mom, dad or grad.
Bridal registry services available.
Antiques, folk art, jewelry and
fine crafts from around the
globe. Beautiful and functional
hand-made items from
individual artisans and small
family businesses.
your purchase of $100 or more!
your purchase!
416 Church St.
404-370-1863
www.tastessentials.com
(Website coming soon!)
427 Church St.
404-371-0101
www.mingeiworldarts.com
Free brunch
Free entrée
EXPIRES 5/31/06
(up to $5 off, not valid on friday after 5 pm)
EXPIRES 5/31/06
Featuring American cuisine
and fresh seafood in a warm,
eclectic atmosphere. The patio
at Wahoo! boasts a beautiful
garden paradise that’s perfect
for your next event.
Raging Burrito has the most
incredible burritos, quesadillas
and salads you will ever eat. Try
our Thai salad or fajita burrito,
with a margarita, on our 150-seat
patio!
with each brunch purchased (up to
$10 value)! Sundays only, 11 am-3 pm
1020 W. College Ave.
404-373-3331
www.wahoogrilldecatur.com
with entrée purchase!
141 Sycamore St.
404-377-3311
www.ragingburrito.com
20% off
Free entrée
with entrée purchase!
all services! 10% off Aveda retail!
(Not valid on Fridays or Saturdays,
cannot be used with any other offer.)
308 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-378-8881
www.leviskeywest.com
We offer unique gifts, antiques and
home décor that fit any budget. We
search all over for merchandise
that is unique and affordable
including items from local artists.
Shipments arrive daily!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
We want you to feel like you are sitting in a
Keywest fishhouse – from conch fritters to
oysters on the half shell – we have it all
when it comes to seafood. With our great
food and atmosphere, we hope to provide
you with an experience you’ll never forget!
10 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
EXPIRES 5/31/06
302 E. Howard Ave.
404-377-0005
www.hairandbodywerks.com
All the essentials, in one
convenient location. Combine
our services to make the most
of your time.
Decatur is your “mallternative”
for shopping, dining and services!
Enjoy more than 200 shops, restaurants, galleries
and salons, plenty of parking, easy MARTA access
and most destinations within walking distance along
tree-lined streets. Decatur’s merchants welcome you
with personalized hometown service.
Available Now!
Give the gift of Decatur
with exclusive gift cards
from Decatur First Bank.
Free
15% off
appraisal with purchase
of appraisal and/or 10% off
anything in the gallery!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
335 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-373-1969
your purchase of $100 or more,
Monday through Thursday!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
113 E. Court Square
Style that's casual and funky
featuring Free People, Michael
squashblossomboutique.com
Stars, Lucky, Johnny Was, Hobo,
Dansko, Burning Torch, FLAX, CP
Shades, Buffalo, Hazel Mark Edge,
David Aubrey and lots more.
404-373-1864
Art jewelry and fine crafts.
www.alexiagallery.com
10% off
10% off
your purchase of $50 or more!
all wines by the glass or the
bottle for the month of May!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
EXPIRES 5/31/06
308 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-370-1207
www.supperclubdecatur.com
Casual, romantic and charming
restaurant. Great wines by the
glass.
222 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-377-9070
www.sevya.com
10% off
$10 off
your purchase!
your purchase of $75 or more!
(one per customer)
EXPIRES 5/31/06
303 E. College Ave.
404.373.5511
www.victoryvintage.com
Vintage mid-century furniture,
lighting, glassware and accessories plus stylish new cards, wrap,
gifts and housewares.
EXPIRES 5/31/06
412 Church St.
404-371-4557
www.potteryplacedecatur.com
404-377-0414
www.csgallery.com
It’s creative fun for everyone to
paint your own pottery. Design
your unique Mother’s Day gift to
show how you feel. Say it with
pottery! Ask about pottery
parties and summer camp.
$10 off
20% off
EXPIRES 5/31/06
EXPIRES 5/31/06
Visit the gallery’s new location just
west of the square. Experience the
imagination of local artists specializing in pottery, painting, glass, jewelry,
photography and wood. June’s Third
Thursday Gallery Tour features
Brenda Griffith’s vibrant fused glass.
Voilá is a casual European style
café. Lunch, dinner or weekend
brunch plus a market with
prepared foods to go.
one dinner entrée!
your purchase of $100 or more!
335 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
Sevya products are handcrafted,
using the finest natural materials.
The revenue earned through the
sales of these handicrafts is used
for need-based development
programs. Member of the Fair Trade
Federation.
410 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
404-687-2215
www.voilamarketcafe.com
(Website coming soon!)
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 11
CLIP AND USE! Offers good through May 31, 2006. For more coupons, click www.decaturga.com, call 404-371-8386
or visit these Decatur merchants. Watch for more Decatur Deals in the June issue of the Decatur Focus newsletter!
20% off
15% off
all hardcover books and DVDs!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
533 W. Howard Ave.
404-377-5620
www.mentalstimulation.biz
Check out Mental Stimulation’s
impressive selection of great
movies, interesting books and
fascinating toys. We don’t have
everything, but everything we have
is cool.
your purchase!
419 Church St.
404-370-3009
your purchase!
meal with purchase of meal!
EXPIRES 5/31/06
(Two customers must be present)
EXPIRES 5/31/06
125 Clairemont Ave.
404-373-9340
www.myfriendsplacedeli.com
515 N. McDonough St.
404-373-6300
www.littleshopofstories.com
(Website coming soon!)
your purchase!
your purchase of $100 or more!
Shop our selection of knitting, crochet,
needlepoint tools, accessories, custom
needlework framing and lots more.
Since 1974 we have helped many
generations of needlework enthusiasts
with everything from macramé to cross
stitch to today’s hot trend – knitting!
Functional folk art, garden
accents and fabulous finds for
the discriminating shopper.
Open seven days a week for
your convenience.
EXPIRES 5/31/06
EXPIRES 5/31/06
404-377-6875
www.neasesneedlework.com
Free!
popcorn when you visit
our main office!
1120 Commerce Dr.
404-373-1000
Kroger Office
720 Commerce Dr.
404-373-3125
www.decaturfirstbank.com
Little Shop of Stories is an
independent bookseller carrying
quality children’s literature as
well as thoughtful, handpicked
selections of fiction and nonfiction for teens and adults.
$15 off
15% off
335 W.Ponce de Leon Ave.
An eclectic collection of unique
gifts and home décor. Art glass,
jewelry, stained glass, wind
chimes, yard art, fairies,
candles, purses and lots more.
15% off
Free
My Friend’s Place promises to
provide customers with a friendly
atmosphere serving freshly
prepared ingredients to meet the
needs of active, healthy lifestyles.
EXPIRES 5/31/06
Buy Decatur Dollars gift cards in
any denomination at either
Decatur office. Look to Decatur
First Bank for friendly hometown
banking services from people
who know Decatur.
12 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
117 E. Court Square
404-371-9900
www.squarerootsdecatur.com
Free!
Shopping, Dining & Services Guide
Call 404-371-8386 to request a copy.
Or, visit any Decatur merchant.
Need quantities for guests or an event?
Just call and we will provide them free
of charge.
Decatur Development Authority
404-371-8386 • info@decaturga.com
DBA NEWS
DeKalb Medical Center at Decatur
Earns Accreditation Honor
DeKalb Medical Center at Decatur earned the Gold Seal of
Approval for health care quality from the Joint Commission
on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).
JCAHO awarded the 76-bed hospital in downtown Decatur
Disease-Specific Care Certification for Respiratory Failure
with a Patient on a Ventilator. It is the first hospital in the
country to earn this certification.
DeKalb Medical Center at Decatur’s certification means the
hospital excels at caring for patients diagnosed with respiratory
failure and ventilator dependence and has one of the highest
success rates for weaning patients from ventilators.
Decatur Arts Alliance Creative
Resources Registry now Online
The Decatur Arts Alliance’s
newly formed Creative
Resources Registry is now
available online. The listing
includes information about
Decatur’s varied and talented artists and serves as
a resource for anyone who
is looking for artists, art
schools, or arts venues in the Decatur area.
Visit www.decaturartsalliance.org to see the registry,
which is organized by name, company, and category. If you
are an artist, please consider registering for this community
resource.
Voilá Café and Market Opens in Decatur
Voilá means “there it is,” which perfectly describes the new café and
market at 410-B W. Ponce de Leon Ave., next to Your Cleaners and Watershed. Dine in the café for a leisurely lunch, dinner or weekend brunch,
or shop in the market for foods to go. Daily selections of prepared dinners are available to make life a little less hectic. Voilá carries Breadgarden
breads, voted “Best in Atlanta” by Atlanta Magazine in 2005.
Stop by Voilá on your way to work for a rich, smooth cup of the finest
coffee. For more information call 404-687-2215.
Staff Designers Provide Special Services to
Intaglia’s Decatur Customers
Intaglia Home Collection’s new Decatur location has quickly become a destination for furniture shoppers in the area. Intaglia features unique furniture selections and affordable prices.
Staff designers JoJuana Davis and Liza Montegaudo are available
to visit customers’ homes, for an affordable design fee, to help with
furniture layout, furniture selection, fabric choices and wall color selection. They are also available in-store for help on room layout, size
limitations, color selection and accessorizing a room.
Intaglia offers stylish furnishings for every room as well as an assortment of rugs, lamps, vases, pillows, ceramic pieces, candles, mirrors and photo frames.
Stop by and visit JoJuana and Liza, and see what Intaglia
Home Collection can do for you. Intaglia is at 431-3 W. Ponce de
Leon Ave. For more information, call 404-373-2088 or visit
www.intagliahome.com.
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 13
DBA NEWS
TRSB Partners Named
‘Super Lawyers’
TRSB partners (from left) Debra Schwartz,
Shanon Stevenson, Jay Rollins, Julie Northup and
Kim Thompson.
All three senior partners at Decatur-based
law firm Thompson, Rollins, Schwartz &
Borowski, LLC – Kim Thompson, Jay Rollins, and Debra Schwartz – were named
Super Lawyers in the 2006 edition of Law
& Politics and Atlanta Magazine.
Rollins and Schwartz were recognized in
the practice area of employment litigation
and Thompson in the immigration practice
area. Schwartz was also identified as one
of the “Top 50 Female Super Lawyers in
Georgia.” In addition, Schwartz is listed in
“The Legal Elite: Georgia’s Most Effective
Lawyers,” Georgia Trend magazine, as well
as Atlanta Business magazine’s “Best Lawyers in Georgia 2005” and “America’s Best
Lawyers 2006.”
Shanon Stevenson and Julie Northup,
who became TRSB partners in January
2005, were identified as “Georgia Rising
Stars” in the most recent “Super Lawyers/
Rising Star” edition of Law & Politics and
Atlanta Magazine. The “Rising Star” designation is reserved for attorneys who have
practiced law less than 10 years. Stevenson
was honored in the immigration practice
area and Northup in the employment litigation area.
Thompson, Rollins, Schwartz &
Borowski specializes in providing comprehensive legal services to individual and
small employers in employment-related
and business immigration matters.
For more information or to receive a
copy of the firm’s latest newsletter, call 404377-7717 or visit www.trsbattorneys.com.
14 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Hall Hirsh & McDaniel Opens in Decatur
Hall Hirsh & McDaniel, LLC, a firm of trial lawyers handling criminal defense and civil
litigation matters, has opened its doors in Decatur. The firm’s partners, Andrew Hall, Max
Hirsh and Mike McDaniel, were prosecutors for the DeKalb County District Attorney’s office before going into private practice.
“Decatur is home,” says Max Hirsh. “Basing our business here was the logical decision.
For years we have tried cases at the DeKalb County Courthouse and we each continue to
have strong business and personal ties to the area.”
Hall Hirsh & McDaniel is at 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 450. For more information, call 404-638-5880 or visit www.hhmtriallaw.com.
Our House Celebrates with Preschool Parade
Our House, Inc., commemorated the
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Week of the Young Child by taking
the Our House preschoolers to parade
around the square in downtown Decatur. Twenty-five students from the
preschool class, teachers and parents
took the morning off on April 7 to
make some noise to celebrate the Education of Young Children.
The Our House children are also displaying their art in various businesses in the Decatur area, including Café Lily, Crescent Moon, Decatur First Bank, Franklin’s Printing, Great
Clips, Kaleidoscope Boutique, That Pottery Place, and Seventeen Steps.
The Week of the Young Child is an opportunity for programs, NAEYC affiliates, related
organizations, communities, and states to focus on the needs of young children and their
families.
Our House breaks the chains of homelessness by providing quality early childhood
education and comprehensive support services for families who are homeless. Call Tyese L.
Lawyer, executive director, 404-378-0938, for information.
Oh Baby! Fitness Introduces Group Cycling
Oh Baby! Fitness will begin offering a Group Cycling class for pregnant women and
new mothers beginning May 12. Cycling is one of the best exercises for new moms
and moms-to-be. It’s a great cardio workout with no impact on the body or joints. If
you loved cycling before you were pregnant, you’ll enjoy this class, which is specially
designed for the pregnant woman. If you’ve just had a baby and want to lose your
pregnancy weight quickly, this is the class for you too.
Other prenatal classes include: Pregnancy Aqua, Pregnancy Yoga, Total Body
Toning, Birth Ball Fitness and Toning, Fitness and Yoga Combo. Postnatal classes
include: H2Oh Baby (water aerobics), Mom and Baby Yoga, Mom and Baby Fitness,
Pilates and Ab Recovery and Stroller Workout.
Find out more and register online at www.ohbabyfitness.com or call 678-5281390 for more information. Classes are $60 for a six-week session or $12 for
drop-ins.
SCHOOL NEWS
PushPush Theater
School News
The Joy of Censorship
Congratulations to Clairemont teacher Heather
Borowski, who received
a 2006 Inspired Teacher
Scholarship for Visual Learning. The scholarship program
supports professional development activities for educators in K-12 schools, colleges
and universities who champion the integration of visual
learning and technology into
the curriculum.
She will use her scholarship of $750 to attend the
National Education Computing Conference (NECC) in July
and intends to use this training to share new information
throughout the school, district and state. Heather has worked for City Schools of Decatur for seven years.
She is pictured (at right) with Jan Goodloe, principal of Clairemont.
Congratulations to DHS sophomore Joel Ballard, who has been accepted into
North Carolina School of the Arts. He will study contemporary dance in the
School of Dance at NCSA, where he will be a junior. Before and while a student
in Decatur, he also studied dance for 10 years. The School of the Arts is the first
state-supported, residential performing arts school in the nation. It has five professional schools including dance, drama, music, filmmaking, and design and
production. It provides high school, undergraduate and graduate degrees. All of
the 1,000+ students are admitted by audition or interview.
Decatur Presbyterian Children’s Community (DPCC) is accepting applications for its
kindergarten program for the 2006-2007
school year. The program is designed to prepare 5-year-olds for first grade.
DPCC has more than 50 years’ teaching
experience with young children, and was the
first kindergarten in DeKalb County. Classes
run from May through September. For information call 404-378-1770.
by Joe Raiola
June 3 • 8 p.m.
A provocative program
on the First Amendment
and the history of Mad
Magazine, written and
performed by Mad Senior Editor Joe
Raiola. Presented as a benefit for PushPush
Theater. Tickets are $25 and include refreshments and a reception with the artist.
Notional Women
by Brenda Bynum
June 4 • 4 p.m.
Renowned Atlanta actress Brenda Bynum
portrays four Southern women who lived
in the Atlanta area and had a great impact
on the lives of others. Presented as a benefit
for PushPush Theater. Tickets are $25 and
include refreshments and a reception with
the artist.
For information, call 404-377-6332 or
visit www.pushpushtheater.com.
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404-327-4871
SELLING HOMES IN DECATUR
SINCE 1986
U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao will
deliver the keynote address at Agnes Scott
College’s graduation ceremony on Saturday,
May 13.
Elaine Chao
MIRIAM MATHURA, GRI, ABR�
miriam.mathura@coldwellbankeratlanta.com
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 15
EVENTS
Patio Party at the Solarium
The Community Center of South Decatur invites the community to
its third annual Patio Party Fundraiser on Sunday, June 4, 5-8 p.m. The
family- friendly event will be held at the Solarium at 321 W. Hill St.
The event includes live music, a delicious variety of food, wine
and beer, raffle items, kids’ activities and a special silent auction.
Come and have fun with the whole family while supporting a
neighborhood treasure.
Tickets may be purchased in advance for $15 at the Solarium
office or $20 at the door. Children 12 and under are free. Call 404370-0888 for more information.
Oakhurst Wine Crawl
Fall Garden Tour
Decatur Preservation Alliance & Oakhurst Community Garden
See 10 of Decatur’s most interesting and enthralling gardens
SEPTEMBER 30 & OCTOBER 1
Tickets online only at www.decaturpreservationalliance.org
May 6, 4-6 pm
Oakhurst Business District
Buy a commemorative tasting glass
for $20 and sample wines from
around the world at participating
businesses all around Oakhurst. Transportation provided by the Fur Bus. Participation is limited to the first 750. The wine
crawl is a fundraiser for the Oakhurst
Business Association and Oakhurst
Neighborhood Association.
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16 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
CONGRATULATIONS
TO
THE BIRD TEAM
Top Listing Agents Again!
2002, 2003, 2004 & 2005
Why list your home with anyone else?
Call our team of experts today.
404-932-0737 • www.birdproperty.com
Midtown Office
Serving All Atlanta Areas
900 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-292-6636
www.condostore.com
Independently owned and operated by NRT Incorporated
EVENTS
Martinis in the Garden May 20
The Oakhurst Community Garden Project invites
you to an evening of chic yet down-to-earth fun with
Martinis in the Garden, Saturday, May 20, 5-8 p.m.
Benefiting the Oakhurst Garden’s environmental
education programs for urban youth, Martinis in the
Garden will feature a selection of garden-style cocktails, live music, a live auction, and fabulous food
– all amidst nature at her springtime finest!
The $35 admission for the event includes three
martinis of choice. Other beverages, including local
microbrews, will also be available.
The live auction items will include a weekend
at a condo at Seagrove Beach, Florida; a week at
an elegant and spacious beach home in the Outer
Banks; music lessons on your choice of guitar, banjo,
mandolin, fiddle, or bass; two week’s worth of fresh,
locally grown, organic produce; and much more.
For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Stephanie Van Parys, svanparys@hotmail.com
or 404-377-8675.
Decatur
Garden Tour
Moves to Fall
In 2006 the Decatur Garden Tour will move to the
fall season and be held on
Saturday, Sept. 30, and
Sunday, Oct. 1. The Garden
Tour has found a new home
with the Oakhurst Community Garden and the Decatur
Preservation Alliance. We
have joined forces to create
a bigger and better garden
tour for the community’s
enjoyment. Look for more
detailed information in the
fall.
Loft Living.
No loft required.
Sofa $945
Clean, simple, elegant
and versatile. Affordable
gifts and furniture for
wherever you live.
I’ve moved my office. Stop by and
visit me at my new location today.
(404) 634-0783
Milano Bed $645
Neil Dobbs
809 Church Street
DECATUR
neildobbs@allstate.com
Fifth Ave
Leather Sofa $999
www.intagliahome.com
Appointments to fit your schedule
INTAGLIA ATLANTA
Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty
Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois ©2005 Allstate Insurance Company.
553-2 Amsterdam Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
404.607.9750
INTAGLIA DECATUR
431-3 W Ponce de leon
Decatur, GA 30030
404.373.2088
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 17
EVENTS
News from Decatur Greenspaces
The Decatur Preservation Alliance has a variety of May activities for the community, including:
Woodlands Garden Activities
Decatur Cemetery Activities
Midweek Gardeners meet on Wednesdays May 3, 17, and 31,
9-11 a.m. Woodlands provides all tools.
Cemetery Cleanup. Saturday, May 6, 10 a.m -2 p.m. Come
and help care for the historic section of the cemetery. Meet at the
Commerce Drive entrance.
Celebrate Mothers Day with Moms and Muffins. Saturday,
May 13, 9-10:30 a.m. Children 4-10 years old, accompanied by
an adult, will take a guided woodland walk featuring springtime
nature activities. A Mother’s Day craft project and light breakfast
will follow. Register early; space is limited. $8 per person.
Weekend Gardening Day. Friday, June 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Help
liberate the native plants from the invasives. All gloves and tools
provided.
Time for a change?
Call EMILIE MARKERT
Selling Decatur with TLC…
Since 1984
RE/MAX Executives, Inc.
404-378-9300
Outstanding Agents, Outstanding results
18 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Second Sunday Strolls. Sunday, May 14, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Enjoy
a historic tour of the Decatur Cemetery. Meet at the Commerce
Drive entrance.
For more information about classes and events, contact Kimberly Fulghum, 404-371-4444 or kimberly@decaturpreservation
alliance.org.
EVENTS
Decatur Design Award Winners to Be
Announced at May 7 Event
Homeowner Assistance Requests for 2007
MLK Jr. Service Project
The Decatur Preservation Alliance and the Decatur Historic Preservation Commission will celebrate National Historic Preservation
Month as they honor great design in Decatur neighborhoods with
the annual Decatur Design Awards on Sunday, May 7, 4-6 p.m., at
the Solarium, 321 W. Hill St.
The featured speaker is architectural historian Steven Moffson
of the Georgia State Historic
Preservation division. Moffson
will discuss renowned architect
William J. Sayward’s life and
work. William Sayward designed
several of Decatur’s architectural
gems, including the Pythagorean
Masonic Lodge on Ponce de Leon,
Decatur City Hall, and major buildings
on the campus of Agnes Scott College.
After the talk, the Historic Preservation Commission will announce the Design Award winners and show how the architectural
design projects have enhanced Decatur. Call 404-371-4444 or
email Kimberly@decaturpreservationalliance.org for information.
The Decatur
Preservation Alliance is accepting applications
of senior citizen
homeowners in
need of assistance with home
repairs and yard
maintenance
through June
30. To be eligible, the home
must be located within the Decatur city limits, and the senior citizen must be at least 65 years old, and own and reside in the home.
To apply or to nominate a senior citizen for assistance during
the 2007 MLK Jr. Service Project, contact Kimberly Fulghum,
404-371-4444, or kimberly@decaturpreservationalliance.org. You
may also contact Kimberly if you are interested in helping plan the
2007 service project.
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SWIMMING, TENNIS,
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DON’T MISS OUT THIS SUMMER!
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 19
EVENTS
New Pete the Cat
Panels Downtown
Four new Pete the Cat panels
by artist James Dean have
been installed on the construction fencing around the
Decatur MARTA plaza renovation project. Check them out.
And be sure to support the
Sycamore Street businesses
adjacent to the construction:
My Friend’s Place, Birdi’s,
Sage, Siam Thai, Sushi Avenue, Raging Burrito, Azul,
Shields Produce and Grocery,
Vibes Music and More, Universal Communication, Panda
Cafeteria and American Sub.
Let my experience
“Open Doors” for you!
David Crenshaw
Senior Loan Officer
Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee
10 Tenth Street, Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-253-1698
E-mail: dcrenshaw@opteum.com
Apply online:
www.opteum.com/dcrenshaw
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227 N. McDonough St.
404-378-4046
Need to Be
Kneaded?
Joan Rau
Certified Massage Therapist
404.784.2225
425 Commerce Dr., Decatur
info@JoanRau.com
20 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Scheaf’s Painting
Scheaf’s Painting is now located in Decatur. We are a painting company that has served the metro Atlanta area for the past decade with
attention to detail on new and old homes. We pride ourselves on
customer service and efficiency to complete jobs in a timely and professional manner. Please feel free to call us anytime for a free comprehensive proposal on any of your interior or exterior painting needs
404-343-1349
SEEN AROUND DECATUR
Decatur Book Festival Adds Seven Authors
Seven new authors have been confirmed for the Atlanta JournalConstitution’s Decatur Book Festival (DBF), scheduled for Labor
Day weekend, Sept. 1-3. A roster of 50 world-class authors will
participate in readings, signings and lectures during the event.
“Atlanta has long needed a lively, family-friendly book festival,”
says Daren Wang, chairman of the festival planning committee and
publisher and editor of Verb: An Audioquarterly. “DBF is shaping
up to be a marquee literary event!”
Among the authors confirmed for the event are mystery/thriller
writer Michael Connolly, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert
Olen Butler, and Decatur native and author/screenwriter/humorist
Roy Blount, Jr.
The newest additions are:
• Edward P. Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Known
World.
• Steve Berry, author of the best-selling novel The Amber Room.
• Touré, popular hip-hop writer, contributing editor for Rolling
Stone magazine.
• Mary Kay Andrews, a.k.a. Kathy Trocheck, former writer for
the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
• Bret Lott, author of the
Oprah Book Club pick
Jewel.
• Georgia native Melissa
Fay Greene, best-selling
author of the award-winning books Praying for
Sheetrock and The Temple
Bombing.
• Victor Navasky, former
editor and publisher
emeritus of The Nation.
Other recently confirmed authors include Shamus award-winner
David Fulmer, author and literary agent Deirdre Knight, AfricanAmerican historian and children’s book author Catherine Clinton,
children’s book illustrator Chris Raschka, author of Change Me into
Zeus’s Daughter Barbara Robinette Moss, and contributing writer
for The Law of the White Circle Dr. Paul Hudson.
Yesterday:
Just a contender
Today:
Total knockout
It’s transformation time — Time to change
your look, and your outlook on life. Our expert
team of cosmetic dentists can help by improving
both the appearance and the health of your teeth.
Call us at 404.636.1200 for a whiter, straighter,
more structurally sound smile. Go ahead, give
your inner beauty a reason to be jealous. Show
off what you’ve been hiding for so long.
50% off inoffice Zoom2
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with this ad
2058 North Decatur Road · Decatur, GA 30033 | www.bluecreekdental.com
On the corner of Clairmont and N. Decatur Rd., near Kinko’s.
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 21
AROUND DECATUR
★ Holy Trinity Parish Preschool will hold an open
house on Saturday, May 6,
at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity
Parish Episcopal Church,
515 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
The preschool serves families with children ages 1-4
with a half day preschool
program. Call 404-3772622 ext. 216, or email
preschool@htparish.com.
Visit www.htparish.com for
details about the school’s
philosophy.
★ David Crenshaw is pleased
to announce that he is now
with Opteum Financial
and is continuing a 23-year
history of providing residential mortgage loans to
Decatur residents. Opteum
is a well-known mortgage
company providing a
promise of good service in
writing. You can reach David at 404-253-1698.
★ Residents who are veterans and eligible for the
GI Bill may be eligible
for GI Bill benefits in the
workplace, available from
the On-the-Job Training
(OJT) program. The OJT
program provides veterans
with an alternative way
to receive their GI Bill
benefits. Recently hired
veterans in full-time, entrylevel jobs who are eligible
for the GI Bill should contact the Georgia Department of Veterans Service,
404-656-2306/2322, or
saahds@mindspring.com to
discuss the program.
Public Hearings on
City of Decatur Budget
Public hearings on the revised city budget for fiscal year
2005-2006 and the proposed budget for 2006-2007 will
be held at Decatur’s temporary City Hall at 233. E. Trinity
Place on the following dates:
June 5
June 12
June 19
7:30 p.m.
6 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Citizens are encouraged to attend.
Congratulations to
PAM H UGHES
for achieving the
C RYSTAL P HOENIX A WARD
The honor is earned for
20 Y EARS IN THE
M ILLION D OLLAR C LUB
Adams Realtors
on the Square
since 2003.
p a m h u g h e s @ j e n n y p r u i t t . c o m , 404-851-0732
Sandy Springs Office
Helen Lynch & Jim Alexander, Managing Brokers
5290 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, GA 30342
404-250-9900
w w w. j e n n y p r u i t t . c o m
1120 Commerce Dr.
Decatur, GA 30030
The Sign
of Service
We love selling
Decatur!
Downtown Decatur Historic Grant Park
404.373.7771 404.688.1222
133 East Court Square 458 Cherokee Avenue
adamsrealtors.com
22 | Decatur Focus • May 2006
Ask Jeff!
Jeff Hancock
Senior Loan Officer
JeffHancockLoans.com
404-371-4500
Q: I’m a customer at a large bank with loan
terms great for them, not for me. Your advice?
A: Get a Second Opinion!
Put our industry knowledge to work for you with
loan products tailored to fit your financial needs.
We’ll work with your realtor and make sure you
close on time with no hidden fees.
AROUND DECATUR
Theatre Decatur
Noel & Gertie
by Sheridan Morley
Apply Now to Learn How Public Safety Works in Decatur
The Decatur Citizens Public Safety Academy is accepting applications to its 15th class,
which will begin on Thursday, Sept. 7, 6:30-9 p.m. For more information, and to download
an application pdf, visit www.decaturga.com.
Through May 21
In their day, Noel Coward and
Gertrude Lawrence were two of this
century’s greatest stage personalities.
Coward was a talented actor, playwright and composer and Lawrence
was a beautiful, celebrated actress.
They were a remarkable team, and
their friendship has become part of
show business history, providing the
inspiration for Theatre Decatur’s
latest musical production of Noel
& Gertie, by playwright Sheridan
Morley.
Performances are Thursdays,
Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and
Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale
now through Theatre Decatur’s box
office; call 404-373-5311 or email
boxoffice@theatredecatur.com. Tickets are $20-24, with student, senior
and group discounts available.
May 2006 • Decatur Focus | 23
There Are Bulldozers All Over Decatur, But Our New Offer Is Truly
2.8
www.decaturfirstbank.com
A real community bank®
Main Office
1120 Commerce Dr.
Decatur, GA 30030
404-373-1000
%
PREMIUM MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT
Annual
Percentage
Yield
Kroger Office
720 Commerce Dr.
Decatur, GA 30030
404-373-3125
Panola Road Office
Inside Wal-Mart
I-20 at Fairington & Panola
770-323-1242
Community Bank
Main Office
1010 Park Place Blvd.
Greensboro, GA 30642
706-453-9887
And always, Decatur First Bank customers enjoy FREE Internet
Banking, FREE ATM Usage (Ours and Other Banks’), LOW
Consumer and Commercial Loan Rates, HIGH Rates on
Certificates of Deposit, and GREAT Customer Service
Madison Office
Inside Wal-Mart
1681 Eatonton Rd.
Madison, GA 30650
706-342-4230
DATED MATERIAL MAY 2006
Printed on Recycled Paper
P.O. Box 220
City of Decatur, GA 30031-220
PRE-SORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit No. 199
Decatur, GA 30031
Guaranteed through 6/30/2006. Minimum $15,000 required to earn interest.
Balances below $15,000 will incur $12 monthly service charge. Withdrawal restrictions apply.