Saturday, February 6, 2010

Superbowl Sunday @ Twain's



Superbowl Sunday @ TWAIN'S

Come watch the Super Bowl at Twain's this Sunday
We're setting up an extra big screen projection TV on the stage, selling wings for half price, running beer and food specials, and expect lots of fans of all stripes. Also, we've got Mysterious Stranger Brown Ale and Bullfrog IPA!

Twain's
211 East Trinity Place
Decatur, GA 30030-3414
(404) 373-0063

Thursday, February 4, 2010

From Paris With Love Starts Friday

Decatur’s Renewal Design-Build Wins Regional Award




From Kelly Cheek

I’m happy to announce a big win for Renewal! NARI has named our whole house green project a regional CotY winner. Would it be possible to make an announcement on your website?

Decatur’s Renewal Design-Build Wins Regional Award

February 4, 2010 --- The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) named Renewal Design-Build a 2010 Regional CotY (Contractor of the Year) winner in the Whole House category of its annual awards competition. This is the second consecutive year the co

mpany has won a CotY award.

The winning whole house

project, located in Decatur’s Oakhurst neighborhood, is EarthCraft certified and has

been featured on Planet Green’s “Renovation Nation.” The

remodel included doubling the home’s existing sq

uare footage while cutting its energy bills in half. You can see the winning project here.

Contractors fr

om seven regions around the country vie for Co

tY Awards on an annual basis. An impartial panel of judges who are experts within the

industry and associated fields, selected winners based on each entrant’s “before and after”

photography and project description. Judging was based on problem solving,

functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation,

degree of difficulty, and entry presentation.

All regional winners will be eligible for the National CotY Awards at NARI’s Evening of ExcellenceSM in April in Phoenix, Arizona. The Evening of ExcellenceSM is widely considered to be the premier event of the year in the remodeling indus

try. It will be attended by more than 350 of the industry’s elite.

Renewal Design-Build, 124 S. Columbia Dr. in Decatur, provides complete solutions for renovations, additions, kitchens, baths, porches, decks, curb appeal, and repairs. For information, call 404.378.6962, or visit RenewalDesignBuild.com.

Sincerely,

Kelly Cheek

Marketing Manager
Renewal Design-Build

t. 404-378-6962
f. 404-378-6963

124 S. Columbia Dr., Decatur, GA 30030

Kelly@RenewalDesignBuild.com

http://www.RenewalDesignBuild.com


Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Upcoming Event : Bradley Observatory Open House April 9, 2010


Bradley Observatory Open House
Friday April 9, 2010 from 8:00pm - 10:00pm
Bradley Observatory and Planetarium
141 E College Ave
Decatur, Georgia 30030 Get Directions
This year-long series of events celebrates the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first astronomical use of his telescope, and engage the challenges we all face when pushing the boundaries of exploration in the quest for knowledge.

upcoming.yahoo.com
http://www.agnesscott.edu/academics/bradleyobservatory

Monday, February 1, 2010

Sammiches N' Stuff Now Open


This is in the old Jakes Ice Cream/McDonough St. Market space.

h/t decatur metro

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Live Well Now Health & Wellness Feb 4 & 11


From :http://decaturactiveliving.blogspot.com/


FEB 4 & 11 – "LIVE WELL NOW" HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERIES

LIVE WELL NOW - Health and Wellness Series

Date: Thursdays, February 4 & 11

Time: 7:00– 8:30pm

Location: Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St. Decatur GA

Live Well Now is a highly interactive and informative series that will empower and enable you to make healthy lifestyle choices regarding diet and exercise (smart nutrition choices and effective ways to manage your weight). Dr. Cohen, a leading health and wellness advocate will facilitate this series along with Street UniversityTM, an innovative education and entertainment company. Be prepared to have fun while we dissect your diet, challenge your Health IQ, and offer you mini-health missions. This is one class your health can’t afford to miss. This series is being offered through Decatur Active Living.

http://www.streetuonline.com

learn more

Friday, January 29, 2010

Big Plans for GM Plant in Doraville

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

An Orlando developer has a contract to buy the old General Motors plant in Doraville and plans to build a "clean and green" community of houses, shops, restaurants and offices on the site, the company said Thursday.

New Broad Street Cos. said it has been in discussions with GM for more than 18 months.

"It could be any mix of uses," New Broad Street spokeswoman Barbara Koenig said Thursday. "Any mix of commercial, retail, residential."

The deal is expected to close in early summer. The purchase price will not be disclosed, Koenig said.

"This is the best urban infill site in the country for a large transit-oriented development," New Broad Street president David Pace said in a statement. "It will be clean and green, incorporating environmental remediation of the former industrial site with best practices for sustainable development."

The Doraville plant closed in September 2008 and several developers bid to buy the massive 165-acre site.


ajc story

The Depeaux is also For Sale


The old Decatur Depot/Depeaux is for sale, read all about it
at decatur metro

more info and pictures here

Badda Bing is For Sale


The Atlanta Restaurant Exchange has Badda Bing Listed For Sale

Chef Michael Condon is Relocating
his Successful Catering Business
to a Larger Commercial Kitchen
Leaving behind this great opportunity!

Located at the Entrance to the Decatur Marta Train Station
and with Excellent Visibility
This is a sure fire Recipe for Success!

Badda Bing Name is Michael's Successful Catering Business
and the Name will not be included in the Sale

Badda Bing's space

Lots of potential for a Quick Service Menu

Full kitchen and nice bright dining area.

This city has great pedestrian traffic
as well as being very accessible when arriving in a car.

People love to dine out in this suburban oasis.

We were on a trip to another up and coming city
and were told by a local official
that they will be a wonderful city soon,
just like Decatur!

There are few cities left
which still have a small town feel.

This location has a good lease in place,
and is ready for an expanded Quick Service Menu.

Lots of people in the area,
and many local businesses within walking distance.

Tour Decatur 2010



New t-shirt design by Michele DeHaven of Function!

View the route on Gmaps by clicking here.

For more information or to register visit tourdecatur.com
Click here to download a sign up form (PDF).
Click here to register online

Interested in sponsoring this great community event?
email gail@decatureducationfoundation.org or call 404-377-0641

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Chicks in the City Symposium Saturday, February 6, 2010

From The Oakhurst Garden


Chicks in the City Symposium

Saturday, February 6, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Purchase Tickets

Spend a day in Decatur learning from the chicken experts.

Saturday, February 6, 2010
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Decatur Recreation Center
231 Sycamore Street, Decatur
www.oakhurstgarden.org
(678) 642-4977

Topics include: Getting Started with Backyard Poultry, Chicken Breeds, Coop Building and Designs, Ongoing Chicken Responsibilities, Illnesses and Diseases, Working Chickens in your Garden

To register:
$50 for Oakhurst Community Garden Project Members, Georgia Organics Members, City of Decatur Residents
$65 for all others
Purchase your tickets today.

Thank you to our partners: City of Decatur Active Living, Georgia Organics, and Chicken Whisperer, Inc.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Decatur for Haiti is Great Idea.

Great news from Catherine over at The Decatur Minute

Decatur for Haiti – Help Spread the Word!


Dine and Shop in Decatur on Monday, Feb. 1

What: Decatur for Haiti. Local Decatur merchants and restaurants donating to the Haiti earthquake relief.

When: Monday, Feb. 1

Who: The following businesses have agreed to donate a portion of their proceeds from Feb. 1 to the American Red Cross.

  • Brick Store Pub
  • Chick-Fil-A from 5-8 p.m.
  • Fleet Feet
  • Heliotrope
  • HairWerks is offering $25 haircuts and $10 brow waxings which will all be donated.
  • Little Shop of Stories will hold a special storytime at 7 p.m. about the importance of helping others.
  • Mingei
  • Nectar
  • Palate Cafe and Bar
  • Pambili African Artworks
  • Peggy’s Boutique
  • Steinbeck’s
  • Twain’s
  • UJoint
Check for more businesses to join the great event.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Little Shop of Stories Nominated


A Decatur bookstore has been nominated for a national award for its work with young readers.

The Little Shop of Stories is among 13 nominees for the Women’s National Book Association’s Pannell Awards. The award recognizes retail bookstores that excel at inspiring young people to read.

This year’s awards, one to a general bookstore and one to a children’s bookstore, will be presented in May at BookExpoAmerica.

Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool Enrollment


Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool Enrollment Sessions Start Saturday January 23!

2010-2011 Enrollment Sessions: January 23, 28 and 30. Please visit
www.OakhurstCoop.com for details.

Explore what Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool can offer your family.

• Morning classes five days a week for children 2 – 4 years
• Everyday hands-on environmental education
• Commitment to parental involvement in education
• Nature-centered curriculum
• Nurturing community for families

OCP is also enrolling for a young two's class to start February 2010. Children who turned 2 by January 1 are eligible for enrollment.

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Concerts on the Sq. looking for Bands for 2010


Over at The Decatur Minute site Cheryl reports that:

The Concerts on the Square committee will be selecting bands for the 2010 Concerts on the Square and the Blue Sky Concerts the first week of February. Bands can apply by going to the Decatur Business Association website and filling out the Concert Series Application. A CD or a website where the band’s music can be heard is required. The committee is looking for “fun”, upbeat bands for Saturday night that the crowds will enjoy dancing to. Blue Sky Concerts are a little more laid back, and a great opportunity for smaller bands and singer/song writers to have their music heard. Questions? Call 678-553-6573.

East Court Square 2001


Bundos Market Restaurant on far right.

Neil Young On Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien on Final Show "Long May You Run"

The Great Escape with Lego's



Great video made with legos.

Everybody's Talkin' 1969 Harry Nilsson


-----



From the 1969 movie Midnight Cowboy music by John Barry and Harry Nilsson

The Key Lime Pie King...of Smyrna

Saturday is National Pie Day, a time for Georgians to stick out their pastry-filled bellies with pride and partake of the Peach State’s delectable desserts.

Georgia, after all, is renowned for peach, pecan, sweet potato and key lime pie.

Key lime pie? From Georgia?

Indeed. In fact, Smyrna -- aka Key West North – produces one of the nation’s finest frozen key lime pies.

ajc

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Friday, January 22, 2010

Have It Your Way with a Beer.

The Associated Press reports that the burger giant BURGER KING will open a new type restaurant called The Whopper Bar in Miami Beach, Fla. where you can have a beer with your burger & fries, it will be the chain's first such type restaurant.

Full story @ ajc

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Mary Lin Elementary Night at Wahoo! Tuesday Jan. 26th





www.marylinelementary.com

“WIZARD OF OZ” AND MUNCHKIN ACTOR BRING AFTERNOON OF FUN TO PLAZA THEATRE


Saturday Jan 23rd at 1:30



Put on those ruby slippers and get ready for a trip down the Yellow Brick Road like you’ve never had before.
But you don’t have to click your heels to get to Oz. The Historic Plaza Theatre brings the
magical land to life with a rare, big-screen presentation of the 1939 family classic “The Wizard of
Oz” starring Judy Garland. And an actual citizen of Munchkin Land hosts an afternoon of “Oz”-
related entertainment.


Karl Slover, who played several Munchkin roles in the timeless favorite, will be on hand to sign
autographs and pose for pictures before and after the film. "Standing 4-feet, 4-inches tall, I was the smallest Munchkin,” Slover recalls. “I couldn't even reach the door knob.”

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

City To Test Tornado Warning System

From Linda Harris http://www.decaturga.com/

City To Test Tornado Warning System
The City of Decatur will test the new Tornado Outdoor Warning Siren system for installation purposes on Friday, January 22, 2010 at 12 noon. The test will last approximately two minutes.

The first official monthly testing of the system will be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 5 p.m. If there is inclement weather that day, the test will be postponed until Thursday, February 4 at 5 p.m.

Going forward the system will be tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. The sirens will sound for approximately one minute during each testing.

If you have questions about this or other Emergency Management issues, please contact Tony Parker, Assistant City Manager, Emergency Services, tony.parker@decaturga.com or call 404-370-4102.

Monday, January 18, 2010

5 Year Old Survives Elevator Fall at Marta Station

The boy was taken to a local hospital for evaluation said Fire Capt. Eric Jackson after the boy fell 10 to 15 ft and landed on top of the elevator car, the 5 year old was leaning against the elevator door when somehow it opened.

ajc story

Greene's Fine Foods on Fox 5 Atlanta



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----

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Cultural Arts Master Plan Wednesday Jan. 20th



EVERYONE IS INVITED
For more info call 404-371-8386
or email linda.harris@decaturga.com

GRAPHITE ARTISTS WANTED @ ROSE SQUARED GALLERY


'Time Well Spent' by JD Isaacs graphite on illustration board, 11"x13"


"Out of Dark Waters I" by JD Isaacs graphite on watercolor paper, 18"x28"
JD Isaacs of Rose Squared Gallery is Looking for artists that work in graphite

CALL FOR GRAPHITE ARTISTS

We are currently seeking artists who have developed superb skills working in graphite on paper or other surfaces. Professional artists who may be interested in submitting for this group showing in April of 2010 should email the owner, JD Isaacs, from the Contact page, and he will send instructions for submissions. Specifically, we are looking for highly detailed or unique use of the graphite medium and not sketches from drawing classes or studies for paintings and layout. No mixed media please! Graphite Only! It is very important that this be kept in mind. A few examples of the quality of work to be shown above. Figurative work, landscape and still life will all be valid. The show will not be restricted to just one piece per artists. Multiple submissions accepted. Please submit before February 28, 2010 to be considered.

Rose Squared Gallery & Framing
111 Clairemont Avenue - Decatur, Georgia 30030
404 377-1414

Party in Vegas with Decatur's Sugarland

--


click on photo for video and info.
-----------------------

related video:

The Plaza Theatre's 70th Anniversary

---

---The Plaza Theatre's marquee for the special event evening.---
It was like 1939 .

--- This Wizard of Oz Scarecrow stepped outside for a smoke and asked me for a match. ---
---


Here is The Plaza Theatre's schedule for the weekend.

Saturday 1/16
GULLIVER’S TRAVELS 3:00, 9:30
MR SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON 5:30, 7:30
FANTASTIC MR. FOX 3:30, 5:30
THE ROAD 7:25, 9:30

Sunday 1/17
GULLIVER’S TRAVELS 3:00, 9:30
MR SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON 5:30, 7:30
FANTASTIC MR. FOX 3:30, 5:30
THE ROAD 7:25, 9:30

Monday 1/18
*FANTASTIC MR. FOX 3:30, 5:30, 7:30, 9:45
THE ROAD 3:10, 5:15, 7:25, 9:30

Tuesday 1/19
*FANTASTIC MR. FOX 5:30, 7:30, 9:45
THE ROAD 5:15, 7:25, 9:30

"Heavenly Harvest" at Decatur First United Methodist Church




When: January 20th: dinner to learn about the "Heavenly Harvest"
How many of you have walked by the garden on Candler Street by the side of Decatur First United Methodist Church and been curious about it? Maybe you saw the sign for this "Heavenly Harvest" and wondered who is running it, and what it's for. Perhaps you even toyed with the idea of getting involved. Well, wonder no longer - a chance to find out more is coming soon!
Heavenly Harvest is a garden started by a group of DFUMC volunteers for the purpose of supplying fresh fruits and vegetables to the community organizations that the church already sponsors, including Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministries, United Methodist Children's Home, and Hagar's House. On January 20 at 6:30, the volunteers will be hosting a dinner to share the successes of the garden's first year and start planning for this next year. If you have any interest in becoming involved, this is a great time to do so! The dinner will be held in the fellowship hall and will cost $8 for adults and $4 for children. We will be serving a menu featuring fresh local vegetables: pasta primavera, a veggie side and bread.
To RSVP, please call the church receptionist at 404-378-4541 or visit www.decaturfirst.org. For more information about the garden or the dinner, contact Laura Perry at laura.perry@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Four-Diamond Shuttle Launch package $169


Shoresresort.com is offering a great deal on a Four-Diamond Shuttle Launch package at Daytona's newest resort.

Don't miss out on an unforgettable experience to witness in-person a dramatic lift off!

The Space Shuttle Endeavor is set to make its last night launch on Feb. 7, with a scheduled lift-off time of 4:39 a.m.*

Guests can enjoy shoreline seats and four-diamond service during the launch with a special package at The Shores Resort & Spa, located less than 70 miles from Kennedy Space Center at the south end of Daytona Beach Shores.

The Four-Diamond Shuttle Launch package starts at $169 and includes overnight accommodations, a type of Irish coffee called Shores Coffee, s'mores, breakfast with Tang, champagne and a souvenir photo.

The Shores Resort & Spa is Daytona's newest resort and the only AAA Four Diamond resort among all the oceanfront properties.

Chic and brightly colored guest rooms are luxurious with sheer canopied four-poster beds, pillow-top mattresses and many have views of Daytona Beach, the Atlantic or the Intracoastal Waterway.

ajc

Shop Mingei World and Help Haiti



Market by Raymond Lafaille, Port au Prince, Haiti


On Thursday and Friday this week, Mingei will donate 10% of total sales to Partners in Health for earthquake relief. We will also be accepting cash and check donations which we will forward. This organization, founded by Paul Farmer and Ophelia Dahl, has been working in Haiti for many years. Please read about their work here.


Ellen and Ann
Mingei World Arts
427 Church Street
Decatur, GA 30030
404-371-0101

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Relics and Rarities looking forward to busy Spring & Summer


Decatur, GA

Champion newspaper has a great article on Relics and Rarities
by Gale Horton Gay
Check out her full story here.

Gale reports that
Although Pickard didn’t get his business open in time to take advantage of the summer ice cream season, he’s crossing his fingers that spring and summer of 2010 will be busy and profitable.

Former Decatur High School students Stefanie Donham and Michael Smith stopped by Relics and Rarities for ice cream and some nostalgia in December 2009. While she snacked on birthday cake ice cream and he worked his way through a cup of cookies and cream, they marveled at the cars, trucks and memorabilia.

Donham, 20, who graduated two years ago and now attends Agnes Scott College, said this was her second time at the shop—which is located across from Decatur High, and she was glad to see it come to the neighborhood. She recalled that the old space was a mechanics shop—the kind she didn’t like walking past.

“It just looks awesome,” said Donham of the addition to the neighborhood. “It’s really cool.”

“Just the whole collection is so fascinating,” she said.

Smith, who attends UGA and was visiting Relics & Rarities for the first time, said the combination of dessert and collectibles works.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Hundreds of DeKalb Employees to Retire Early

According to the AJC, "DeKalb County is counting on hundreds of employees to retire early to offset a drastic drop in revenue.
If not, county workers will likely face layoffs."


By Megan Matteucci

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution


On Tuesday, county commissioners gave the first approval for an early retirement program -- one of several cost-saving measures proposed to help offset a loss of about $50 million in revenue.

The county is planning to allow employees who are 50 years or older the option to retire early without a penalty. Employees with 25 years of service who are not 50 will also be able to leave early.

In exchange for their retirement, two extra years of service will be added to their retirement package.
ajc full story.

Sign Up Now for Basketball at Decatur Rec Center.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Downtown Decatur Snow


Decatur, GA



Decatur, GA.~~~~~~~Jan. 2010

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Best Times are in Decatur


Decatur, GA.
"Step right up and step inside you ain't seen nothing yet" :Coffee & Donuts... hot dogs... money orders... copy & fax... checks cashed... and don't forget fashion & gifts.

I wonder if they have popcorn ?



Decatur's vacant buildings on the square are filling up.
A new coffee house just opened (Best Time) with a twist, they also have Jewelry and Fashion.
It's located in the old Wordsmith's Books location.

Decatur's Newest Pub "Mac McGee's Irish Pub"


Decatur, GA

On Jan. 5th a new pub hit the Decatur Square.
It's a Irish themed Pub.
located in the old Saba building.
$10.00-15.00 per entree
Pub food & Sandwiches/Subs

Mac McGee's Irish Pub
111 Sycamore St.
Decatur, Ga. 30030
404-377-8050

Next Stop...Decatur said:
Something about the front reminds me of F.W. WOOLWORTH 5 & 10 cent store.

Dekalb Fire Called to Vacant Grocery Store @ Suburban Plaza



Decatur, GA
The Dekalb County Fire Department was called to the now vacant grocery store at Suburban Plaza Shopping Center in Decatur today, they sprayed down the front of the building, I did not see any fire, so I would guess it was some sort of electrical wiring problem.

At one time Piggly Wiggly was talking over this building, but for some unknown reason they changed their mind.

Decatur eatery serves, cuts costs


Decatur, GA

By Peralte C. Paul

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Opening a new restaurant in one the worst economies since the Great Depression had some people thinking Federico Castellucci III was crazy.
"In this time, banks aren't even going to look at us — a new restaurant opening in a nasty recession," Castellucci said of his family-run Decatur eatery, the Iberian Pig, which opened in October.

But Castellucci, whose family owns two other restaurants in metro Atlanta, built on an existing space on the Square by bartering services with contractors and other vendors.

He financed the opening through future sales and the fee he pays a trade exchange firm based in Lawrenceville, Castellucci said.

"We were able to barter a little less than half the opening costs. And today, that's huge," he said.

AJC FULL STORY

Last Official Day of Business for Whit's End


Firstly, thank you to all of you who called, emailed, or stopped by with well wishes, it has been very much appreciated. The clearance sale has been a great success, and we are thankful for that.


Our last day of official business will be Sunday January 10th, closing at 5p. After that, we will be here sporadically until the end of the month.


Here is what is left in the store…..$9 belts (size 32 and 42---for waist size 30 and 40), underwear (medium and XL), ties…..$20 shirts (XL) and pants (various waist and length sizes) and 2 pairs of shoes (Patagonia size 12, and 13). I also have a few great pieces of furniture we used as displays for bargain prices.


Call or email if you want to check on a size.


Cash only, and all sales are final.

Thanks Decatur for supporting our store for 3 great years. We are sad to close, but since we live in town, we will see everyone around.

Best,

Jeff and Greg

Whit's End, LLC
431 W. Ponce DeLeon Ave, #2
Decatur, GA 30030
(404) 377-3310

Friday, January 8, 2010

eLIFE Launches Decatur Citynet


eLIFE has launched a new site called Decatur Citynet.
Decatur's first online social network.
Check it out here.

Elvis Presley - Sweet Caroline (1970)

"Through Dark of Night, Through Winter's Chill..."


Decatur, GA. ----------- Jan. 8, 2010
Photo: JD Isaacs

"Through Dark of Night, Through Winter's Chill..." photo taken this morning in downtown Decatur...

JD Isaacs
www.rosesquaredgallery.com

Great photo JD
thanks

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Snow Memories of Last Year


Decatur, GA.

Snow covered courtyard Mar. 1 2009

Cathy said:

It's such a pretty picture. The snow came a week or two before my daughter's birth. I just remember everyone saying, "Don't go into labor this weekend!"


Wednesday, January 6, 2010

All-ages school of rock offers new way to learn music


Decatur, GA

Lori Murphy of Firehouse Guitars & Music sends this in.

Wanted to introduce our local business - it\'d be great to add us to your store listings on your blog as we provide musical instrument & gear, as well as music lessons.
Also, please see our press release about our AMP program, an all ages school of rock program right here in Decatur. Final performance is April 13th at Eddie\'s Attic.


All-ages school of rock offers new way to learn music

DECATUR, GA, January 5th, 2010

Firehouse Guitars & Music is announcing their second semester of the Academy of Music Performance (AMP), an all ages “school of rock,” to run the last week of January to April, 2010. Classes will culminate in a final performance at Eddie’s Attic, the famed Decatur venue that launched such acts as John Mayer and the Indigo Girls. The AMP program is unique in that it instructs performers of all ages and focuses on original songwriting.

“Our focus is getting students playing together and learning the give and take that comes with performance,” says Firehouse owner, Eric Murphy. “We also focus on original songwriting which stretches our students as creative musicians. This emphasis is part of why we attract adults as well as kids – we give them an outlet to do more with their musical interests than play alone in their basements.”

The AMP program began in the fall of 2009 with the formation of five bands–two adult-only bands and three groups for kids and teenagers. With names like “Broom Closet Ramblers” and “MidEvil Knievel,” their sounds ranged from bluegrass to punk. In November groups played to a packed house at Eddie’s Attic, bypassing the often half a year or longer waiting list they have for their renowned open mic nights.

The program’s Master Teacher is Atlanta’s own Johnny McGowan who has performed with acts such as Bo Diddley, Squirrel Nut Zippers and Atlanta Rhythm Section. Students of McGowan’s get to work with a seasoned veteran who helps them find their own talents and channel them into songwriting and performing. As one fall student stated in the AMP program, “I learned more, and faster, than in individual lessons.”

Firehouse Guitars and Music of Georgia, Inc. was established in July 2008 when new owners Eric and Lori Murphy purchased the Atlanta area stores Eric had been managing for several years (Conyers was established in 2001 and Decatur in 2005). Both locations carry top brands such as Fender and Ibanez and together provide lessons to nearly 300 students in everything from guitar to drums to banjo. Currently only Firehouse Decatur offers the AMP program, but there are plans to bring the program to Conyers in the near future. Sign up sheets for the Decatur program can be downloaded from guitarsatlanta.com/lessons or picked up at the store. The sign up deadline for the 2010 spring semester is January 23rd.

Firehouse Guitars & Music of Decatur is located at 2520 N. Decatur Rd at the intersection of N. Decatur, Medlock Road and Scott Boulevard. The Firehouse store in Conyers is located on the access road off I-20 at 1413 Iris Drive. Firehouse maintains an active fan page on Facebook (http://bit.ly/5IxFm9) and can be followed on Twitter @guitarsatlanta. Their web site is guitarsatlanta.com.

Contact:
Lori Murphy, Media Relations
lori.murphy@guitarsatlanta.com
404-372-2840