Construction is starting to take shape on the new Decatur High School Auditorium.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Update on the New Decatur High School Auditorium
Construction is starting to take shape on the new Decatur High School Auditorium.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Amid slumping economy,subdivision adds cheaper homes
A sign of the times.
Decatur has always been like this, small bungalow's with big new homes built right next door. to me it's no big deal who wants to have every house to look alike, not me.
What I would like to see are new homes built like the 1940's and 50's bungalow's like the ones below.
BOB ANDRES / bandres@ajc.com
Sign for the Hays Farm subdivision advertise two different house price points.
By DAN CHAPMAN
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The for-sale signs at the entrance to Hays Farm offer the first clues that not all went as planned at the subdivision alongside Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
The older, more weathered sign reads, “new homes … high $500s.”
The newer, shinier sign reads, “distinctive homes … from the low $300s.”
Two price ranges. Two sets of home buyers.
And one big headache for original homeowners who paid more for their homes only to see the newer, cheaper homes lower their property values. Many of these owners can’t refinance because their homes are worth less than their mortgages. And they can forget trying to sell them — they’d lose tens of thousands of dollars on homes now assessed at much lower values.
Homeowners point many fingers: at a bankrupt builder; a financially challenged developer; skittish bankers; an over-built, over-priced West Cobb housing market; and a lousy economy that’s ravaging the real-estate industry.
The Hays Farm saga, a rarity in Metro Atlanta, mimics two-tiered subdivision troubles more common in the over-heated housing markets of California, Nevada and Florida.
Full story
Highs in 40s Today; on Sunday, sleet?
On Saturday, highs in 40s; on Sunday, sleet?
By ANDRIA SIMMONS, RHONDA COOK
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
After a frigid couple of nights in metro Atlanta, Saturday’s weather will be deceptively warmer —- with temperatures rising to the 40s -— but Sunday could bring sleet.
The Sunday forecast calls for “mostly a slight chance of rain with maybe some sleet in Atlanta,” said Robert Beasley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
Friday morning lows around metro Atlanta were in the low teens, with wind chills as low as zero. Two west Georgia school systems, in Carroll and Haralson counties, canceled classes because of the biting cold. Daytime temperatures reached the low 30s.
The cold has been stretching homeless shelters to their limits.
The Atlanta Union Mission, which operates the largest shelter in the city, with space for more than 1,000 people, said it had to put cots and mats in the hallways to accommodate the number of people looking for warmth.
Grady Memorial Hospital treated no one for exposure or other weather-related problems, though there was an increase in the number of homeless people looking for shelter, hospital spokesman Sean Van Dorn said Friday afternoon.
Friday morning, an investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said no overnight weather-related deaths had been reported.
Frigid temperatures caused a water sprinkler pipe to burst Friday morning at the Studio 6 motel on 9955 Old Dogwood Road in Roswell. The water caused part of the roof to collapse, and six rooms were damaged, hotel staff said.
The motel sustained thousands of dollars in damage, said Rick Raymond, a front desk clerk. He added with a chuckle, “I guess there’ll be no bonuses this year.”
Assistant Chief Paul Piccirilli of the Roswell Fire Department said his firefighters responded to about two houses, two apartment buildings and two commercial buildings because of burst pipes. “I’m sure there’s a lot of departments that went on a lot of calls today,” he said.
Atlanta Fire Department spokesman Bobby Stewart said investigators were trying to determine if two house fires Friday were caused by people trying to keep warm.
“Definitely, the cold weather does play a part in some fires,” Stewart said. “If people are using space heaters, we try to encourage safety. Don’t put them close to furniture, and don’t put firewood close to things that may catch on fire.”
Looking ahead to the beginning of the week, partly cloudy skies are forecast for Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, with highs in the mid 40s. Another cold front is expected to arrive Tuesday. Chances of snow are “questionable” because there may not be enough moisture in the air, Beasley said.
By ANDRIA SIMMONS, RHONDA COOK
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
After a frigid couple of nights in metro Atlanta, Saturday’s weather will be deceptively warmer —- with temperatures rising to the 40s -— but Sunday could bring sleet.
The Sunday forecast calls for “mostly a slight chance of rain with maybe some sleet in Atlanta,” said Robert Beasley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
Friday morning lows around metro Atlanta were in the low teens, with wind chills as low as zero. Two west Georgia school systems, in Carroll and Haralson counties, canceled classes because of the biting cold. Daytime temperatures reached the low 30s.
The cold has been stretching homeless shelters to their limits.
The Atlanta Union Mission, which operates the largest shelter in the city, with space for more than 1,000 people, said it had to put cots and mats in the hallways to accommodate the number of people looking for warmth.
Grady Memorial Hospital treated no one for exposure or other weather-related problems, though there was an increase in the number of homeless people looking for shelter, hospital spokesman Sean Van Dorn said Friday afternoon.
Friday morning, an investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said no overnight weather-related deaths had been reported.
Frigid temperatures caused a water sprinkler pipe to burst Friday morning at the Studio 6 motel on 9955 Old Dogwood Road in Roswell. The water caused part of the roof to collapse, and six rooms were damaged, hotel staff said.
The motel sustained thousands of dollars in damage, said Rick Raymond, a front desk clerk. He added with a chuckle, “I guess there’ll be no bonuses this year.”
Assistant Chief Paul Piccirilli of the Roswell Fire Department said his firefighters responded to about two houses, two apartment buildings and two commercial buildings because of burst pipes. “I’m sure there’s a lot of departments that went on a lot of calls today,” he said.
Atlanta Fire Department spokesman Bobby Stewart said investigators were trying to determine if two house fires Friday were caused by people trying to keep warm.
“Definitely, the cold weather does play a part in some fires,” Stewart said. “If people are using space heaters, we try to encourage safety. Don’t put them close to furniture, and don’t put firewood close to things that may catch on fire.”
Looking ahead to the beginning of the week, partly cloudy skies are forecast for Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, with highs in the mid 40s. Another cold front is expected to arrive Tuesday. Chances of snow are “questionable” because there may not be enough moisture in the air, Beasley said.
Proposal would leave casinos up to counties
By LEON STAFFORD, RACHEL TOBIN RAMOS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Just days after Underground Atlanta officials announced their hopes of bringing video gaming to the downtown attraction, a state legislator wants to offer full-fledged casinos statewide.
Rep. Roger Bruce (D-Atlanta) said Friday he plans to introduce legislation in the General Assembly next week that would allow voters to decide whether they want to bring gambling to their individual counties.
By going this route, he said, each jurisdiction will have the opportunity to plot its own destiny, instead of letting legislators decide.
“What I’m talking about doing is creating full-scale casinos or horse racing if they want them,” he said.
Gambling in Georgia has been bandied about for years, especially as states across the country have seen huge revenue gains from visitors and locals playing poker or spinning the roulette wheel.
House Speaker Pro-Tem Mark Burkhalter (R-Johns Creek) said last month most lawmakers in the Republican majority don’t support changing the state’s constitution to allow gambling. He couldn’t be reached immediately for this story.
Full story.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Just days after Underground Atlanta officials announced their hopes of bringing video gaming to the downtown attraction, a state legislator wants to offer full-fledged casinos statewide.
Rep. Roger Bruce (D-Atlanta) said Friday he plans to introduce legislation in the General Assembly next week that would allow voters to decide whether they want to bring gambling to their individual counties.
By going this route, he said, each jurisdiction will have the opportunity to plot its own destiny, instead of letting legislators decide.
“What I’m talking about doing is creating full-scale casinos or horse racing if they want them,” he said.
Gambling in Georgia has been bandied about for years, especially as states across the country have seen huge revenue gains from visitors and locals playing poker or spinning the roulette wheel.
House Speaker Pro-Tem Mark Burkhalter (R-Johns Creek) said last month most lawmakers in the Republican majority don’t support changing the state’s constitution to allow gambling. He couldn’t be reached immediately for this story.
Full story.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Decatur parents concerned about schools shift
By KRISTINA TORRES
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
More than a dozen parents Tuesday told Decatur city school board members about their concerns for a plan that could move fourth- and fifth-graders to the city’s lone middle school.
Parents are concerned about having the younger students on the same campus as older students. Board members said they have not formed an opinion and were open to hearing other suggestions.
The board could vote on the plan in March. The move would help the small system weather an expected increase in students, particularly in elementary grades.
Over the next two months, however, expect a lot of discussion as the system holds public meetings about the proposal.
Decatur’s fourth- and fifth-graders now attend classes in a standalone school called Glennwood Academy. The proposal was among recommendations forwarded by a committee of parents and staff formed to look at enrollment options. If the move happened, Glennwood would then host kindergarten through third grade.
According to system officials, the number of students in kindergarten through eighth grade is expected to grow over the next four years from 1,897 to 2,388.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
More than a dozen parents Tuesday told Decatur city school board members about their concerns for a plan that could move fourth- and fifth-graders to the city’s lone middle school.
Parents are concerned about having the younger students on the same campus as older students. Board members said they have not formed an opinion and were open to hearing other suggestions.
The board could vote on the plan in March. The move would help the small system weather an expected increase in students, particularly in elementary grades.
Over the next two months, however, expect a lot of discussion as the system holds public meetings about the proposal.
Decatur’s fourth- and fifth-graders now attend classes in a standalone school called Glennwood Academy. The proposal was among recommendations forwarded by a committee of parents and staff formed to look at enrollment options. If the move happened, Glennwood would then host kindergarten through third grade.
According to system officials, the number of students in kindergarten through eighth grade is expected to grow over the next four years from 1,897 to 2,388.
I triple-dog dare you: Boy's tongue stuck on pole
HAMMOND, Ind. — In a scene straight out of the movie "A Christmas Story," a 10-year-old boy got his tongue stuck to a metal light pole. Police said the unidentified fourth-grader was able to tell them that a friend dared him to lick the pole Wednesday night. Temperatures in Hammond were around 10 degrees at the time.
By the time an ambulance arrived, the boy was able to yank his tongue off the frozen pole.
Police said ambulance personnel explained to the boy's mother how to care for his bleeding tongue.
The 1983 movie is set in a fictional city based on Hammond, the hometown of author Jean Shepherd.
___
Information from: The Times, http://nwitimes.com
By the time an ambulance arrived, the boy was able to yank his tongue off the frozen pole.
Police said ambulance personnel explained to the boy's mother how to care for his bleeding tongue.
The 1983 movie is set in a fictional city based on Hammond, the hometown of author Jean Shepherd.
___
Information from: The Times, http://nwitimes.com
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Shopping & Dining - Decatur GA Style
Shopping & Dining - Decatur GA Decatur’s unique and diverse retail business owners invite you to their shopping oasis, a real “mallternative.” Decatur offers charming storefronts and unique boutiques for your shopping pleasure in a small-town setting. Are you looking for whimsical folk art, contemporary furnishings, funky accents for your home, primitive antiques or the perfect creative gift? Decatur shops have it all. Your shopping experience will be enhanced by the diverse commercial districts with everything from locally-owned shops to larger commercial ventures. Shop in Historic Downtown, the Oakhurst District or along the College Avenue Corridor and you will enjoy the surroundings as much as the wide selection of available merchandise. After all that shopping treat yourself to a memorable dining experience in Decatur. From neighborhood bistros and pubs to elegant dining with a wide range of cuisine choices, you will find an interesting mix of locally-owned and national restaurants. Other options at various establishments include: outdoor dining, full service catering, live entertainment and dining in restored historic buildings.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Whit's End Clearance Sale
As we get ready for our Spring items to arrive in a few weeks, we need to clear out the Winter items.
This means more savings for you. Keep in mind though, that these sales are final.
Columbia fleece, sweaters, sweatshirts, shirts and jackets are now 40% off!
Prana/Kuhl/Dockers/Flyshacker fleece, sweaters, shirts and jackets are 30% off!
Toms Shoes are 25% off!
Chiliwear boxers are 10% off!
Columbia and Patagonia shoes, and Woolrich slippers, Columbia and Prana pants are SUPER discounted. (Some savings over 65% off!)
Dockers Cargo pants and Cords are now $29 (regularly $44-$55)
Dockers Chinos are $39.99 and Dress Slacks are $49.99 (regularly $50 and $70!)
There are a few gifts items, and leftover summer items that are marked below cost!
Sizes, styles and colors are limited. Sale may be discontinued at any time.
If you have any returns from items bought in December, they need to be returned by 1/15/09 for either an in-store merchandise exchange, or store credit.
See you in soon.
Jeff and Greg
Whit's End Blog
Take a tour of the Historical City Hall
Decatur's City Hall: A Historic Treasure Transformed"
Take a tour of the historic city hall in Decatur, Georgia. Originally built in 1926, the building was recently renovated and expanded, restoring many unique architectural features and creating an up-to-date work environment. The video also provides an overview of Decatur, Georgia and the history of City Hall
Short & Sweet Studios video, Decatur, Georgia - decaturga.com
Underground Atlanta is ready to roll the dice.
Cope Linder Architects
This is an artist’s rendering of the proposed casino and redeveloped Underground.
By RACHEL TOBIN RAMOS, LEON STAFFORD
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Underground Atlanta is ready to roll the dice.
The operator of the downtown attraction said he has brought a proposal to the Georgia Lottery Board for a casino that would fund the HOPE scholarship and bring millions in tax dollars to the city.
While the idea of a downtown casino has been kicked around for years, this is the first concrete plan brought forward by a developer and presented to an institution that can make it a reality.
In an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Tuesday, developer Dan O’Leary, who with his business partner John Aderhold, holds a 50-year lease on Underground Atlanta, outlined a $450 million proposal that would bring up to 5,000 video lottery machines, completely gut and redevelop Underground and add a new 29-story hotel.
O’Leary estimates the casino would generate gross receipts of $600 million. Half of that would go to the lottery board.
“In order to truly change the perception of Underground,” he said, “we do have to bring a very significant element to that property that it doesn’t have now — a big draw. VLT machines would be an anchor tenant that would bring folks in.”
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
First National Bank Temperature Sign
The Temperature sign was at the corner of the bank building of E. Court Sq. & E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
circa 1966
Hidden Hills residents develop green-space plan for golf course
By DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Residents of south DeKalb County’s Greater Hidden Hills community are finalizing a proposed guide for new development that envisions new walking and bike trails, architectural standards and community facilities.
The study, developed with the county Planning and Development department, includes residents’ request that the county purchase for green space a dormant 18-hole golf course that winds through the community’s center.
Jan Costello, coordinator of the Greater Hidden Hills Overlay District, said residents met a dozen times over the past year to develop a unified vision for an area bounded by Redan Road, Covington Highway, Panola Road and South Hairston Road.
“We are seeking to put concrete details in the zoning codes so that we conserve precious green space, create a walkable community with pleasing streetscapes and nature trails, and provide the guidelines for attractive mixed-use commercial areas with desirable businesses,” Costello said.
Similar studies and plans have been prepared for other DeKalb communities, including Candler Road, Scottdale, downtown Tucker and the Stonecrest area. Community input is being accepted on the Hidden Hills plan, which is expected to go before the county commission by early spring.
Hidden Hills’ draft plan calls for consideration of establishing the area as a tax allocation district, or TAD, to make redevelopment sites more attractive to investors.
AJC
Full story here.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Residents of south DeKalb County’s Greater Hidden Hills community are finalizing a proposed guide for new development that envisions new walking and bike trails, architectural standards and community facilities.
The study, developed with the county Planning and Development department, includes residents’ request that the county purchase for green space a dormant 18-hole golf course that winds through the community’s center.
Jan Costello, coordinator of the Greater Hidden Hills Overlay District, said residents met a dozen times over the past year to develop a unified vision for an area bounded by Redan Road, Covington Highway, Panola Road and South Hairston Road.
“We are seeking to put concrete details in the zoning codes so that we conserve precious green space, create a walkable community with pleasing streetscapes and nature trails, and provide the guidelines for attractive mixed-use commercial areas with desirable businesses,” Costello said.
Similar studies and plans have been prepared for other DeKalb communities, including Candler Road, Scottdale, downtown Tucker and the Stonecrest area. Community input is being accepted on the Hidden Hills plan, which is expected to go before the county commission by early spring.
Hidden Hills’ draft plan calls for consideration of establishing the area as a tax allocation district, or TAD, to make redevelopment sites more attractive to investors.
AJC
Full story here.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
The Artisan In Decatur, Georgia
Make the next move.
The Artisan
201 West Ponce de Leon Avenue
Decatur, GA 30030
phone: 404.377.5902
fax: 404.377.4903
Driving directions to the Artisan.
Sales Office
201 West Ponce de Leon Avenue #10
Sales Office Hours:
Monday–Friday: 10–6
Saturday: 12–5
Sunday: 12–5
Agnes Scott, Emory earn ‘best value’ honors
Agnes Scott (above) and Emory University, both in DeKalb, have been ranked as being among the 'best value' private universities in the country.
By TY TAGAMI
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Two private institutions in DeKalb County have made a list of the 100 “best value colleges” in America.
Princeton Review, a publisher of college guidebooks, rated Agnes Scott College in Decatur and Emory University among the 50 best-value private schools for undergraduates based on cost, financial aid and academics.
Georgia Tech in Atlanta made a similar list of 50 public schools, along with the University of Georgia in Athens and Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville.
The criteria included cost, financial aid and academics, and was based on surveys of administrators and students. The results included a ranking for only the top 10 in each category. No private schools made the short list, but the University of Georgia was ranked 9th among public schools.
Agnes Scott was one of only four women’s colleges in the country to make the list. Over half the school’s students got a “hefty” financial aid package, the review notes.
Emory, meanwhile, met the financial needs for 84 percent of students who applied for financial aid, though the review says fewer than half the students there asked for aid.
The list was published on USA Today’s Web site, at www.usatoday.com/news/education/best-value-colleges.htm.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Reminder: Baths and Bedouins @ Mingei World Arts
Skin feel dry?
Want to treat yourself, help support local business women AND a Bedouin women's co-op
in Morocco?
On Saturday, January 10
we'll be previewing
Sweetie's Sugar Scrub,
a wonderful local product that will be in the
swag bags for the Sundance Film Festival
a week later!
Lavender, grapefruit
and argan oil from Morroco...
Our friend Lisa Callens, who developed the scrub, will be at Mingei from 1-4pm.
Come on by so we can wish you a Happy 2009!
Ellen and Ann
Mingei World Arts
427 Church Street
Decatur, Georgia 30030
404-371-0101
Friday, January 9, 2009
Buried baseball treasure found
CRAIG KOHLRUSS / THE FRESNO BEE Bernice Gallego of Collectique holds a rare 1869 baseball card of the Cincinnati Red Stockings that turned up at her Tower District shop in Fresno.
The strange story goes like this: Last summer, Bernice Gallego pulled an old baseball card from a box of antiques. She figured it might be worth something to someone, so she listed it on eBay.
The starting bid was $10.
But after getting a flurry of inquiries about whether the card was authentic or not, Gallego started to suspect she was holding something a little more valuable and immediately ended the auction.
Turns out her hunch was correct. She did have something more valuable. The card she found was made in 1869 and featured the "Red Stocking B.B. Club of Cincinnati," the sport's first professional team. It's considered one of the first baseball cards ever produced and its actual value could be worth more than $100,000 when she puts it back on eBay (with a higher starting price, of course).
Of course, the news that she had found a rare piece of early baseball history came as a shock to the 72-year-old Fresno, Calif., resident who said she's never been to a baseball game. Her tale, from unwitting discovery to learning about the card's history, is wonderfully captured by our old pal Mike Osegueda of the Fresno Bee. Click here to read it.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
First Female Fire Chief for city of Decatur.
Toni Tolbert Dixon will be the city’s first black and first female fire chief
By DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Toni Tolbert Dixon, former deputy fire chief in East Point, has become the first black and first female fire chief of the city of Decatur.
Dixon, 40, will work alongside current fire chief Jerry Malone for the next six months. Malone plans to retire in July after 30 years of service.
Dixon leaves a department of 139 firefighters to lead a department of 40. There is one fire station in downtown Decatur and another under construction in the city’s Oakhurst neighborhood, she said.
Dixon said she plans to focus on professionalism and customer service.
“We want to be a fire department where you don’t just see us in an emergency,” she said.
The married mother of four lives in South Fulton. She got her start in the firefighting field in 1992 as a fire safety technician in the state Fire Marshal’s Office.F
By DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Toni Tolbert Dixon, former deputy fire chief in East Point, has become the first black and first female fire chief of the city of Decatur.
Dixon, 40, will work alongside current fire chief Jerry Malone for the next six months. Malone plans to retire in July after 30 years of service.
Dixon leaves a department of 139 firefighters to lead a department of 40. There is one fire station in downtown Decatur and another under construction in the city’s Oakhurst neighborhood, she said.
Dixon said she plans to focus on professionalism and customer service.
“We want to be a fire department where you don’t just see us in an emergency,” she said.
The married mother of four lives in South Fulton. She got her start in the firefighting field in 1992 as a fire safety technician in the state Fire Marshal’s Office.F
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Decatur Recreation Center Master Plan
Decatur Recreation Center Master Plan
The City of Decatur is developing a master plan to direct future improvements to the city’s 50 year old recreation center. We invite you to think creatively and submit your ideas to the questions listed below. Forward your answers by Thursday, Dec. 31 to Lyn.menne@decaturga.com or hugh.saxon@decaturga.com or mail to Lyn Menne, City of Decatur, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031.
What Should Our Community/Recreation Center Provide?
1. What community programs are needed?
2. What kind of visual and/or performing arts programs would you like to see?
3. What exercise or athletic programs do we want?
4. What new active adult/senior oriented activities should be provided?
5. What activities or facilities for young professionals are of interest?
6. What activities or facilities for children and youth should be provided?
7. What should the Center provide in 15 years?
8. What other ideas or suggestions would you like to add?
New Year, New Wines, New Lower Prices at Tastings
New Year, New Wines, New Lower Prices
Our customers have spoken and we have listened....for the new year we have lowered the tasting prices on all of our wines. In addition, in recognition of the trying economic times we all find ourselves in, we have reallocated our inventory to concentrate more on the high quality yet reasonably priced wines. Our current selection features over 17 wines by the taste for $2 or less and 24 wines under $10 by the glass. Of course, we will still carry the mid to high end wines for those times when you want to indulge and taste a wine that would not be offered by the taste, or even by the glass, in a restaurant.
We will continue our weekly specials: Monday - 1/2 price house wines and buy one get one free pizza, Tuesday - Trivia - $30, $20 and $10 tasting cards as prizes, Wednesday - $15 wine tastings, and Friday - $5 martinis and 1/2 price draught beer.
We look forward to seeing all of our current customers in the new year and welcoming all of you who have not been in to give us a try. We are sure you will enjoy yourselves.
Thanks,
Deb & Kelly
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Children adjust to school bus cutbacks
Children adjust to school bus cutbacks
It was still dark Tuesday morning when this DeKalb County school bus departed from Oak View Elementary School. LOUIE FAVORITE / lfavorite@ajc.com
By KRISTINA TORRES
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It was still dark when, at 5:45 a.m. Tuesday, 11-year-old Isaiah hopped out of the family SUV and hustled toward several buses clustered together at Oak View Elementary, a DeKalb County school several miles south of Decatur.
Tuesday is the first day back to class from winter break. It’s also the first day of countywide school busing cutbacks — a midyear change made to save money.
So Isaiah, a fifth-grader at DeKalb’s Kittredge Magnet School for High Achievers, started his day like this: Get up and out the door to catch the bus at Oak View, then take that bus to a transfer point and catch another bus to school, which is more than 20 miles to the north near Chamblee.
He’ll repeat that process in reverse in the afternoon.
“It seems to be going OK,” said his mom, Vernice Robinson, as she walked behind him this morning — making sure he got on the right bus. She said his old bus picked him up about the same time, anyway. “We’re just happy they didn’t take the busing away altogether.”
The cutbacks mean fewer buses will be taking kids to school, one of several cost-cutting measures expected in DeKalb schools this year.
Full story here.
It was still dark Tuesday morning when this DeKalb County school bus departed from Oak View Elementary School. LOUIE FAVORITE / lfavorite@ajc.com
By KRISTINA TORRES
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It was still dark when, at 5:45 a.m. Tuesday, 11-year-old Isaiah hopped out of the family SUV and hustled toward several buses clustered together at Oak View Elementary, a DeKalb County school several miles south of Decatur.
Tuesday is the first day back to class from winter break. It’s also the first day of countywide school busing cutbacks — a midyear change made to save money.
So Isaiah, a fifth-grader at DeKalb’s Kittredge Magnet School for High Achievers, started his day like this: Get up and out the door to catch the bus at Oak View, then take that bus to a transfer point and catch another bus to school, which is more than 20 miles to the north near Chamblee.
He’ll repeat that process in reverse in the afternoon.
“It seems to be going OK,” said his mom, Vernice Robinson, as she walked behind him this morning — making sure he got on the right bus. She said his old bus picked him up about the same time, anyway. “We’re just happy they didn’t take the busing away altogether.”
The cutbacks mean fewer buses will be taking kids to school, one of several cost-cutting measures expected in DeKalb schools this year.
Full story here.
Renewal Construction Unveils New Name
Kelly Cheek sent this over to post.
Renewal Construction Unveils New Name
Jan. 1, 2009 – Renewal Construction has taken a new name – Renewal Design-Build – to more clearly reflect the scope of its services and capabilities. The award-winning home renovation firm is based in Decatur, Georgia.
“We want people to know that we do more than just construction and project management,” says Renewal CEO Peter Michelson. “We design and build a project, working with the client from start to finish. The result is a close client relationship and a smooth renovation process.”
Renewal’s design team includes renovation consultant Heather Shuster, who specializes in design and project planning. “My role is to listen closely to the clients’ needs and preferences and develop solutions that will result in a home they can be proud of,” she says. “With our skilled project designers, we use computer modeling to present the design options in 3-D, so clients can clearly see how the finished project will look well before we break ground.”
Renewal Design-Build, 124 S. Columbia Dr. in Decatur, provides complete solutions for renovations, additions, kitchens, baths, small projects and repairs.
For information, call 404.378.6962 or visit www.RenewalDesignBuild.com.
Kelly Cheek
Marketing Manager
Renewal Design-Build
t. 404-378-6962
f. 404-378-6963
m. 770-361-7878
124 S. Columbia Dr., Decatur, GA 30030
Kelly@RenewalDesignBuild.com
http://www.RenewalDesignBuild.com
Thanks Kelly for the update on the name change. I like it.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Decatur eLIFE Magazine is best video blog
I have got to hand it to Decatur's eLIFE Magazine for having the best video on things around Decatur. Keep up the great work Andrea.
Check out her site here.
Here is a little info on eLIFE Magazine
Decatur eLIFE Magazine was founded in 2006 by Emmy award-winning journalist, author and long-time Decatur, Georgia resident Andrea Berry.
We are an independent, interactive online e-publication which features interesting people, places and possibilities in and around the intown Atlanta metropolitan area city of Decatur, GA. We are pleased to add our voice to the growing number of on and offline media now chronicling various aspects of life in Decatur.
We add new features to the e-magazine every week so feel free to visit our site often! Sign up for our free email newsletter so that you don't miss any upcoming features or special announcements.
Ellis sworn in as DeKalb CEO
Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
Burrell Ellis is sworn in as DeKalb County CEO by Justice Carol W. Hunstein as his wife Philippa Ellis stands by his side at Saint Philip AME Church.
Burrell Ellis, DeKalb County’s new chief executive officer, took the oath of office Monday in an unusual joint ceremony for all recently elected and re-elected county officials.
Georgia Supreme Court Justice Carol Hunstein administered the oath to all 41 officials as hundreds watched from the pews at St. Philip A.M.E. Church just south of Decatur.
Ellis took the oath last and was the only official to speak.
“We do not own the offices we hold,” Ellis said. “Instead, we are entrusted with them for what is always revealed to be a brief amount of time.”
The swearing-in was to be followed by a 5:30 p.m. inaugural reception for Ellis in the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn in downtown Decatur at 130 Clairemont Ave., just north of the court square. The reception originally was planned at the Fernbank Museum, but the venue was changed.
—Ty Tagami
AJC
Help me find Good 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives'
Everytime I watch 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives' I get jealous of all that delicious looking food he gets to eat!!
Here is when they visted Matthews Cafeteria in downtown Tucker.
But I want to know where other 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives' are in Georgia.
Please tell me what your favorite Diner, Drive-in & Dives are in Georgia.
I'm always up for a road trip.
The Varsity! The World's Largest Drive-in Restaurant is one for sure.
Here is another youtube of 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives'
Here is when they visted Matthews Cafeteria in downtown Tucker.
But I want to know where other 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives' are in Georgia.
Please tell me what your favorite Diner, Drive-in & Dives are in Georgia.
I'm always up for a road trip.
The Varsity! The World's Largest Drive-in Restaurant is one for sure.
Here is another youtube of 'Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives'
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Cakes & Ale picked as one of top five by Creative Loafing
The top five are:
Cakes & Ale
254 W. Ponce de Leon Ave
Decatur, GA.
La Pietra Cucina
1545 Peachtree St.
suite 101
Atlanta, GA.
Craft Atlanta
3376 Peachtree Rd.
Atlanta, GA.
Sushi House Hayakawa
5979 Buford Hwy.
Atlanta, GA.
Holeman and Finch
2277 Peachtree Rd.
Atlanta, GA.
Havana Sandwich Shop reopens in new location in Canton, GA.
After fire destroyed the Buford Hwy location they decided to reopen in a new location in Canton, GA.
Debbie Benedit sits down to a Cuban sandwich with sides of rice and black bean soup at her new restaurant, Havana Sandwich Shop in Canton.
Photo by Amber M. McCloskey
By Donna Harris
Cherokee Tribune Staff Writer
A new culinary taste has come to town.
Debbie Benedit and her son, Eddie Benedit, brought their Cuban specialties that Atlantans have enjoyed for 32 years to Canton when they opened their second Havana Sandwich Shop last Tuesday.
Ms. Benedit said she and her son, who both live in Canton, thought it was time to bring authentic Cuban food to their neighborhood.
"This is home for us," she said. "They talk about Cherokee County as a place to live, work and play. We live and play here. Now we're going to work here, too."
"We've lived up here 20 years, and we decided to stop feeding strangers in Atlanta and start feeding our neighbors," Benedit added.
The pair had discussed opening a location in Canton before, but the city "just wasn't ready for it," she said.
"(Now) the timing was right," she said. "We're on the ground level for what is getting ready to happen here. We wanted to bring it here to Canton and let people experience something different. We have all the chains, but there are very, very few mom-and-pop, family-owned restaurants here or anywhere anymore."
They found an available building - the former site of Long John Silver's in front of Kmart on Marietta Highway - that was "basically set up like the one in Atlanta," and they jumped on it, she said.
"It made sense," she said. "It was such an easy decision to do."
full story here.
Debbie Benedit sits down to a Cuban sandwich with sides of rice and black bean soup at her new restaurant, Havana Sandwich Shop in Canton.
Photo by Amber M. McCloskey
By Donna Harris
Cherokee Tribune Staff Writer
A new culinary taste has come to town.
Debbie Benedit and her son, Eddie Benedit, brought their Cuban specialties that Atlantans have enjoyed for 32 years to Canton when they opened their second Havana Sandwich Shop last Tuesday.
Ms. Benedit said she and her son, who both live in Canton, thought it was time to bring authentic Cuban food to their neighborhood.
"This is home for us," she said. "They talk about Cherokee County as a place to live, work and play. We live and play here. Now we're going to work here, too."
"We've lived up here 20 years, and we decided to stop feeding strangers in Atlanta and start feeding our neighbors," Benedit added.
The pair had discussed opening a location in Canton before, but the city "just wasn't ready for it," she said.
"(Now) the timing was right," she said. "We're on the ground level for what is getting ready to happen here. We wanted to bring it here to Canton and let people experience something different. We have all the chains, but there are very, very few mom-and-pop, family-owned restaurants here or anywhere anymore."
They found an available building - the former site of Long John Silver's in front of Kmart on Marietta Highway - that was "basically set up like the one in Atlanta," and they jumped on it, she said.
"It made sense," she said. "It was such an easy decision to do."
full story here.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
What was going on Today in Downtown Decatur ? Fire Trucks were out on E. Ponce
Does anyone know what was going on this afternoon on E Ponce de Leon Ave in downtown Decatur, the Decatur Fire Dept was out in full force.
Friday, January 2, 2009
40% off Coupon! for Whit's End
431 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. #2, Decatur GA 30030
404.377.3310, whitsenddecatur.com
Whit’s End
Happy 2009 Coupon!
Good for 40% off any ONE in store item.
Discount taken from original price.
(Excluding Levi’s Jeans, Photography, and DHS Spirit Wear items)
Coupon Valid January 2-4, 2009 Only
These sales will be final.
Not valid on returns.
Limit one per customer.
(Coupon must be presented) Tell them Next Stop...Decatur sent you.
Run With The Dogs - Frostbite 5K is Tomorrow Morning
About the race
Name: Frostbite 5K
Distance: 5K Run/Walk
Date: Saturday, January 3, 2009, 9:00 a.m.
Location: Decatur, Ga.
Decatur High School
All proceeds will be used by the Decatur Bulldog
Athletic Booster Club to help fun the sports program
at Decatur High School and Renfroe Middle School
Decatur High School, Renfroe Middle School, Glenwood Academy
and City of Decatur elementary school students, parents, alumni, friends,
neighbors and runners of all levels are invited to participate.
Contact
Ed Williams - 404-327-7738.
Schedule
Saturday, January 3 - rain or shine
8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. - Race Day Registration
9:00 a.m. - 5K Run/Walk.
Here is film clip from last years Run with the Dogs 5k
Name: Frostbite 5K
Distance: 5K Run/Walk
Date: Saturday, January 3, 2009, 9:00 a.m.
Location: Decatur, Ga.
Decatur High School
All proceeds will be used by the Decatur Bulldog
Athletic Booster Club to help fun the sports program
at Decatur High School and Renfroe Middle School
Decatur High School, Renfroe Middle School, Glenwood Academy
and City of Decatur elementary school students, parents, alumni, friends,
neighbors and runners of all levels are invited to participate.
Contact
Ed Williams - 404-327-7738.
Schedule
Saturday, January 3 - rain or shine
8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. - Race Day Registration
9:00 a.m. - 5K Run/Walk.
Here is film clip from last years Run with the Dogs 5k
Thursday, January 1, 2009
1956 Image of N. McDonough St. Decatur GA..
click on picture to enlarge.
Photo courtesy of 1956 indecatur
Tri-Hi-Y Members.
Left to right: P.Blackshear, A. Madden, J.Hazlerigs, Mrs E Deadwyler, E. Dale, and A. Wrighter.
Photo taken in front of Decatur High School.
Soccer Mini-Camp Jan 5th & 6th
Soccer Mini-Camp Jan 5th & 6th
AVOID YOUR KIDS CATCHING CABIN FEVER !!!
Keep your Decatur kids active over the holidays!
Play Soccer with Decatur Active Living & FC Atlanta!
We are hosting a second mini-camp for boys and girls ages 8 through 13:
Camp II: Monday, Jan. 5th & Tuesday, Jan. 6th
Location: Ebster Rec. Center & Field, 404 West Trinity Place
$40 per child per session; Please pay at the Mini-Camp site
Schedule: 8:30 - 9:00am: Drop off
9 - 9:45am: Warm up and Speed & Agility Training
9:45 - 10:30am: Technical Skill Work
10:30 - 11am: Topic of the Day/Snack
11am - 12:15pm: World Cup Tournament
12:30 pm: Pick up
For more information and questions, please contact Dan Magee,
Dan.Magee@decaturga.com or 678-553-6541.
January 1, 2009 12:00 PM
AVOID YOUR KIDS CATCHING CABIN FEVER !!!
Keep your Decatur kids active over the holidays!
Play Soccer with Decatur Active Living & FC Atlanta!
We are hosting a second mini-camp for boys and girls ages 8 through 13:
Camp II: Monday, Jan. 5th & Tuesday, Jan. 6th
Location: Ebster Rec. Center & Field, 404 West Trinity Place
$40 per child per session; Please pay at the Mini-Camp site
Schedule: 8:30 - 9:00am: Drop off
9 - 9:45am: Warm up and Speed & Agility Training
9:45 - 10:30am: Technical Skill Work
10:30 - 11am: Topic of the Day/Snack
11am - 12:15pm: World Cup Tournament
12:30 pm: Pick up
For more information and questions, please contact Dan Magee,
Dan.Magee@decaturga.com or 678-553-6541.
January 1, 2009 12:00 PM
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Bring in The New Year Sinatra Style
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Ex-Moe’s exec starts pizza restaurant @ Toco Hills
Moe's Co-Founder Opens Pizza Concept
2008-12-29] Moe's Southwest Grill co-founder Matt Andrew, along with partner Tony Lewis, is opening a new made-to-order pizza concept called Maddio's Pizza Joint in Atlanta on January 1, 2009 at 3027 North Druid Hills Road.
Andrews is billing Maddio's Pizza Joint as "New Italian" pizza joint. Customers will be greeted by a pizza maker who offers a choice of dough, sauce, and more than 45 toppings.
Guests can choose one of nine signature pizzas or personalize their pizza starting with the thickness of the crust.
Customers are also offered the option of choosing whole wheat or regular dough, then selecting one of six homemade sauces. Sauce options include Maddio's Signature Tomato-Basil, Herb Pesto, and Spicy Buffalo, among others.
"We have gone to great lengths to develop a recipe for craveable, fresh food topped with an engaging, inviting experience," explains Andrew, president of Maddio's Pizza Joint.
"We learned early on the importance of using fresh ingredients. Our vegetables, which we source locally when available, are delivered daily. We really stepped outside the category in delivering made from scratch products—dough, sauces, dressings … even our meats (chicken and beef) which are 99.9 percent hormone free, hand chopped and marinated fresh daily."
America's Fascination with Pizza
Like many foods, pizza isn't indigenous to America with claims of origin tracing back to Italy, Naples in particular. However no country has done more, not even Italy, to popularize it.
It is said to have made its debut 103 years ago in New York City, by Gennaro Lombardi, but it wasn't until the 1950s when Americans started noticing pizza, made popular by such icons as Frank Sinatra, Joe DiMaggio, and Dean Martin whose song, "That's Amore," inspired generations of singing and eating pizza.
Today, approximately three billion pizzas are sold in the U.S. annually. Pizza accounts for 13 percent of all restaurant orders, trailing hamburgers and cheeseburgers by just a few percentage points.
Creating A Next Generation Pizzeria Working closely with Andrew and Lewis is long-time restaurant design and commercial developer, Rob McKerrow, who was been challenged with creating a distinct atmosphere that delivers a vibrant, contemporary pizza joint experience that's a departure from the typical Americanized pizza parlor.
"Because our customers interact with the pizza maker from the time they enter, Rob (McKerrow) paid special attention to the personality of the kitchen—it's modern, clean and inviting," explains Andrew.
"He has done an amazing job of tying in marble, steel and woods to create a palette that's new Italian … something Maddio's can own. And he did it within the tight parameters Lewis set to meet the speed and flow requirements the operation team needs to fulfill the customer experience."
Maddio's believes customers will not only love the personalization, the food, the speed and the décor, they believe pizza lovers will appreciate the significant choices on cheeses (including Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, Feta and Ricotta), veggies (including Artichoke Hearts, Roasted Red Peppers, Mandarin Oranges) and meats (including Chicken Apple Sausage, Jerk Chicken and Canadian Bacon). Of course, the team of pizza makers offers a proud menu of signature pizzas, including the Steak & Blue, Southwest Baja, Chicken Club and Portobello Pesto.
"We also studied the customer's experience with toppings at other pizza restaurants and chose to deviate from the category norm," adds Lewis, who shares a Moe's Southwest Grill history with Andrew among other restaurants. "All of our toppings are premium because they are the highest quality products, but our pricing is not. Also, we offer any three toppings with every pizza, reinforcing the idea of choice without surprises at the register."
In the instance that pizza lovers or their friends want to opt for a fresh salad or toasted sub, the same attention has gone into choosing fresh ingredients, fresh baked breads and homemade dressings. Salads are healthy in serving size, including Maddio's House, the Basil Chicken Salad and the Santa Fe to name a few. With a choice of white or wheat baked sub rolls, guests can enjoy one of six toasted subs, including the Tuscan Meatball, Maddio's Cheese Steak (with steak or chicken), a Garden Veggie and the classic Italian. All subs and salads are priced at just $6.49.
Maddio's also serves a kids meal—six-inch pizza with one topping and a drink for $2.99. Its Apple Crisp Dessert Pizza is the featured treat, along with brownies and chocolate cookies. Maddio's also serves ice cold draft and bottle beer, wine, carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, fresh brewed tea, bottled water and healthy juices.
http://www.qsrmagazine.com
***********************
More on Maddio's
In the former Mama Fu's in Toco Hills will be Maddio's Pizza Joint. No word on why the name has already been changed from "Mattio's" to "Maddio's", but perhaps one existed already. Former Fu's and current Moe's franchisee Tony Lewis has brought on a few other former Raving Brands employees to launch the new concept. No word on an opening date but from the looks of it, an opening may take place sometime in January.
Repeat Atlanta!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Celebrate New Year's Eve at Wahoo! Grill
Celebrate New Year's Eve at Wahoo! Grill Now accepting reservations for parties of two or more Open from 5 pm until 11 pm Please call 404.373.3331
We will be serving our dinner menu as well as the following delicious features:
Three Cheese Ravioli tossed with Cold Water Lobster in an Alfredo Sauce topped with Fresh Parmesan
New York Strip topped with Balsamic Glaze and Bleu Cheese with Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes and Sauteed Spinach
Thai Marinated Grilled Kajike brushed with a Sesame Ginger Mayhaw Glaze with Basmati Rice and Sauteed Haricot Verts
Wahoo! Grill 1042 West College Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404.373.3331 www.wahoogrilldecatur.com
Wahoo! Grill | 1042 West College Avenue | Decatur | GA | 30030
An unusual Christmas tradition. They help wash dishes at the Decatur Waffle House.
Margaret Kavanaugh (left) and Bonnie Blackburn (second from left) have an unusual Christmas tradition. They help wash dishes at the Decatur Waffle House, where they are regular customers. HYOSUB SHIN / hshin@ajc.com
see slide show of more photos
Mingei World Arts - Hurry! Help us clean our shelves!
Happiest of New Years to all our friends and wonderful customers!
From Mingei World Arts
Thanks from the bottoms of our hearts for your support and friendship during this challenging year. We really do appreciate your choosing to shop with us this holiday season. We'll be here in 2009!
Here's to a better New Year for all of us!
Come on in and help us clean out so we can bring in more goodies. Our holiday items are now marked down 50%, and a few other items around the store are discounted, too.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 10. We'll be hosting a sneak preview for Sweetie's Sugar Scrub, a wonderful local product that will be in the swag bags for Sundance a week later! Our friend Lisa Callens, who developed the scrub, works with Bedouin women in Morocco to source the special oils she uses in her remarkable scrub. Indulge yourself a little to start '09! Meet her and try it out from 1-4pm. Read about it here!
And, as a New Year's gift to all of you, see the coupon below! But hurry-- it's only good in 2008!
Oh-- and we'll be closed New Year's Day.
Ann and Ellen
Mingei World Arts
427 Church Street
Decatur, Georgia 30030
Save 20%
Happy New Year from Mingei!
Take 20% off the full priced item of your choice. In store only.
Not applicable to gift certificates, exchanges or any other offer.
Hurry! Help us clean our shelves!
Offer Expires: December 31, 2008
From Mingei World Arts
Thanks from the bottoms of our hearts for your support and friendship during this challenging year. We really do appreciate your choosing to shop with us this holiday season. We'll be here in 2009!
Here's to a better New Year for all of us!
Come on in and help us clean out so we can bring in more goodies. Our holiday items are now marked down 50%, and a few other items around the store are discounted, too.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 10. We'll be hosting a sneak preview for Sweetie's Sugar Scrub, a wonderful local product that will be in the swag bags for Sundance a week later! Our friend Lisa Callens, who developed the scrub, works with Bedouin women in Morocco to source the special oils she uses in her remarkable scrub. Indulge yourself a little to start '09! Meet her and try it out from 1-4pm. Read about it here!
And, as a New Year's gift to all of you, see the coupon below! But hurry-- it's only good in 2008!
Oh-- and we'll be closed New Year's Day.
Ann and Ellen
Mingei World Arts
427 Church Street
Decatur, Georgia 30030
Save 20%
Happy New Year from Mingei!
Take 20% off the full priced item of your choice. In store only.
Not applicable to gift certificates, exchanges or any other offer.
Hurry! Help us clean our shelves!
Offer Expires: December 31, 2008
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