One GIANT Memory of East Lake in the 1960's

It was 1960 something, and me along with my brother and cousin rode our bikes over to The Grand Opening of the new Colonial store located in East Lake. We were there to see one thing "The Tallest Man in the World".
He arrived in the smallest car I had ever seen and when he stepped out, he was a  GIANT.
His name was Henry Hite

Henry Hite facts on the back of the 1960's card include:

Age: 49
Height: 8'2"
Weight: 300 lbs
Married 28 years ago in Springfield, Missouri.
Wife: Maria stands 5' 3" tall
Five brothers, seven sisters - all under 5' 11".
From Atlanta, Georgia, but now makes his home in Chicago.

Shirt size: 19
Sleeve length: 42 inches
Size 22 shoes - cost $250 per pair.
Suits cost $250 - require yards of material.

From: http://www.thetallestman.com/henrymullens.htm
Henry Hite (1915 – 26 May 1978) born Henry Mullens, was a giant who was well-known in his day for making movies and personal appearances and the occasional movie that would capitalize on his height, 7'6.75" (230.51 cm).

When he was 18 years old he adopted the name Henry Hite and started a comedy duo with his friend Tommy Lowe (real name Roland Picaro): the Lowe and Hite comedy team, later joined by the midget Stanley Ross. Together, they appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show.

An example:

"How did you get so tall?" Mr. Low asked Hite who would reply,"I eat what's right."
Mr. Low would then turn to Stanley to inquire, "How did you get so short?" bringing the reply of, "I eat what's left."

Apart from Henry Mullens and Henry Hite, he was also known as the Corn King Giant, the Certified Giant and the Jolly Giant. 

Photo credit: me. This was the photo card they gave out.

See all the comments on Growing up in Decatur Facebook page.

What's Next for 310 East Howard Ave

Decatur Metro  is reporting Las Brasas the little chicken joint that was once City Wide Cab company
 located on East Howard Ave. will not renew their lease and is looking for a new location.
 I guess the lease went way way up because of all the new the townhomes at East Howard Place  that are now under development, or maybe the land owner has much bigger plans.

-

The City Wide Cab photo is circa 1983.

Two Nice Lunchs

 I missed this last week, its a story about eating lunch at two nice
places, Spice to Table and Leon's
From: http://www.eatitatlanta.com/
The last two weekends have been quite nice. While slightly chilly, the sun has been shining and it feels like a time to go out and do something. Maybe the belt line? Have you been to the belt line? OMG stampede on the belt line towards Krog Street Market!?!? God help the children trying to buy ice cream at Jeni’s, though the poor souls in the hour long Yalla line look prepared for dispatchment.
We decided to try Spice to Table just up the road at the Studioplex. It’s a small space, more approachable than Asha’s former restaurant on Northside, with a smattering of limited small plates to be ordered counter-service style. I missed out on the fried chicken, but ordered some small plates to share with the family. I really enjoyed it. It made me think of Dynamic Dish – soulful food, alive with flavor and zero guilt. I look forward to my return.
read more
photo credit eatitatlanta.com

More Details about Avondale Marta Station mixed-use Development

From: http://atlanta.curbed.com

By Michael Kahn
The Avondale MARTA station's proposed $95 million mixed-use development is drawing closer to reality, as evidenced by a filing made to the Department of Community Affairs for the State of Georgia.
 But that doesn't guarantee it's going to happen. Part of MARTA's colossal, transit-oriented development initiative targeting a number of stations across the network, the plan could bring a slew of residents and neighborhood amenities to the east-Decatur area. Currently, about 2,500 people live within a half-mile of the station, according to MARTA; the development could increase that number substantially with 338 apartments and 34 condo units, plus an additional 92 units reserved for senior housing, putting the total for residential units at 464. With the increased density, the proposal calls for a grocery store and restaurants, in addition to 17,220 square feet of more retail space and 40,000 square feet of "institutional" space. They didn't elaborate on what "institutional" means, exactly.
more

photo credit itsmarta.com

Peach State Opera presents Donizetti's "Elixir of Love" on Sunday, March 1

Sent in by Nancy Martin

Peach State Opera presents Donizetti's "Elixir of Love" on Sunday, March 1 at 3:00 p.m. in the Cole Auditorium of Georgia Perimeter College (in the Fine Arts Building CF) located at 555 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston, GA 30021) performed in English. Donizetti's "Elixir of Love" on Sunday, March 1 at 3:00 p.m. in the Cole Auditorium of Georgia Perimeter College (in the Fine Arts Building CF) located at 555 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston, GA 30021) performed in English.
 There will be a pre-opera talk by Carter Joseph , who does talks for The Atlanta Opera, at 2:00 p.m. Donizetti's sparkling comic opera, "The Elixir of Love" follows simple yet fervent country bumpkin, Nemorino, who is hopelessly in love with Adina, an independent and attractive yet fickle landowner.

With the dashing Sergeant Belcore also competing for Adina's affections, Nemorino turns in desperation to traveling con man, Doctor Dulcamara and his "elixir of love" (really a bottle of cheap wine). Ducamara's faux love potion causes a domino effect of hilarious plot twists and surprising romantic turns in this masterpiece of beguiling arias and intoxicating duets.

Ticket prices are $22 adult, $20 senior (over 60), $10 students (including college students with ID), $5 Georgia Perimeter College students, alumni, staff and faculty. All seating is general admission and parking is free. Tickets may be purchased on our website at www.peachstateopera.org or at the door. The production is condensed and total performance time is approximately 2 hours.

We love groups and offer a great discount for group ticket purchases! For groups of 10 or more for our March 1 performance, tickets are only $10 each. Tickets must be purchased together as a group at the same time. For group sales information, please contact our Marketing Associate, Nancy Martin, at 404-373-8165 or her e-mail address at iljrd@yahoo.com

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken Coming to Atlanta

From: http://atlanta.eater.com/2015/2/18/8064123/guss-world-famous-fried-chicken-atlanta
A new player is joining Atlanta's fried chicken scene.
Hugely popular chicken chain Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is expanding around the country, and Atlanta is getting in on the action later this year. Gus's now lists Peachtree Center in Downtown as a future location for one of its restaurants.

The Memphis-based chain, which dates back to the 1950s, is commonly listed among the best fried chicken purveyors in America. In 2011, Fresh Off the Boat's Eddie Huang wrote for Eater, "They do perfect down and dirty Southern fried chicken." There are 10 Gus's outposts currently in business in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas, and expansion is set to extend Gus's reach to St. Louis, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Detroit.

photo credit : http://gusfriedchicken.com/

WEST END Open Streets for All - April 19

From: http://www.atlantastreetsalive.com/
Join the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition and thousands of Atlantans for the West End route on April 19, 2015.  The 3.5 mile loop connects three neighborhoods and opens up the streets to people of all ages to walk, bike, skate, or use any human-powered means of transportation. Learn more about the route here.
Atlanta Streets Alive — where we close the streets to cars and open them to people. Bring your bicycle or just your feet, and get ready to explore your community streets in a safer, healthier, more livable way.

American Pickers might do Some Picking in Cherokee County

From:http://cherokeetribune.com
Historic relics, overlooked gems and antiques are needed in order to lure the dynamic duo, who are often seen touring the country on the History Channel’s “American Pickers,” to Cherokee County.

Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz are famous for searching through other people’s belongings in order to find valuable pieces — whether it’s art, motorcycles or old wind-up toys.

The production team of “American Pickers” is on a search of their own to find a new location full of historic treasures, and Cherokee County could be the perfect spot.

But residents need to get involved by showing off rusty relics that may be lingering in a junkyard, basement, garage or old barn throughout the county.

Some of the items Wolfe and Fritz are looking for include old advertising signs, old toys that are either tin, wind-up or cast iron, pinball and slot machines, taxidermy, Houdini items, old rodeo items, folk art, early Halloween items, vintage sports collectibles, firefighter collectibles and pre-1950s western or equestrian gear.

If “American Pickers” selects Cherokee as its next location, it could mean more positive publicity for what makes the county attractive for visitors.

read more

photo credit: http://www.history.co.uk

Atlanta Film Festival is March 20-29

From: clatl.com
At last, after last week's updates we have the final slate of features and shorts that will be screened during the 39th annual Atlanta Film Festival. The ATLFF received 3,761 submissions, and the lineup consists of 62 feature-length films, and 91 shorts. The festival runs from March 20-29, at the Plaza Theatre and other locations.
Read full post at http://clatl.com/freshloaf/archives/2015/02/24/atlanta-film-fest-announces-full-lineup-for-2015

Petition to Help Save Suburban Plaza Bowling

Please sign petition here to help save suburban plaza bowling https://www.change.org

Trinity Triangle Update photo

 Decatur GA
Trinity Trangle

East Howard Place Updated Photos

From: http://www.atlantarealestateforum.com/monte-hewett-homes-announces-new-townhome-community-in-decatur-2-98337/
The  townhomes at East Howard Place are now under development, with completion dates placed for spring 2015. Priced from $589,900, there are two distinct floor plans available. The Hillyer will offer 2,242 square feet of living space with three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, while the Howard is the premium end-unit floor plan, complete with three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms throughout 2,000 square feet of living space.

Thanks to its proximity to downtown Decatur, residents at East Howard Place will enjoy a walkable lifestyle, with easy access to many of the dining, shopping and entertainment destinations that can be found in the area. A small sampling of the local attractions include Fellini’s Pizza, Leon’s Full Service, Cakes & Ale, summertime Concerts on the Square, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Glenlake Park, Druid Hills Golf Club, Kimball House Restaurant, Decatur Famer’s Market and the East Lake Golf Club. Plus, Decatur has its own MARTA station, providing residents with easy access to most of Atlanta’s other intown neighborhoods.

To be among the first to reserve your new townhome at East Howard Place in Decatur, contact sales agents Ted Blocker at 404-918-4455 and Sandy Bartow at 678-859-3922. For more information on East Howard Place, visit www.MonteHewettHomes.com.

 Photo credit for map and rendering photo: http://www.atlantarealestateforum.com

Eye on Decatur - LEON'S

Leon's Full Service in Decatur recently added a new vintage style sign. It looks great.

Oakhurst Wine Crawl 2015 - Saturday Feb. 21

From: https://www.freshtix.com/events/oakhurst-wine-crawl-2015
For tickets go to above link
The 2015 Oakhurst wine crawl will be held on Feb 21, 2015 from 4-7pm.  Participants can taste over 100 different wines while visiting the businesses in Oakhurst.  Over 30 businesses will be showcased this year serving wine.  All wine crawlers must be 21 years of age or older and have valid ID the day of event.  The wine crawl will begin at the Solarium at 231 W Hill Street, Decatur Ga 30030 and participants can stroll the Oakhurst village or ride the Fur Bus ( free of charge ) to businesses along College Ave.  This event is for adults only and will happen on scheduled date rain or shine.  No refunds will be given, as this is a neighborhood sponsored event to promote other events in Oakhurst throughout the year.

Fire Damaged LongHorn Steakhouse has Plans to Rebuilt across from Toco Hills

 

 From http://www.tonetoatl.com

A new LongHorn Steakhouse coming soon?

The fire-damaged LongHorn Steakhouse on North Druid Hills Road was finally demolished earlier this week.  LongHorn Steakhouse, part of Orlando, Florida-based Darden Restaurants, burned last June, and up until this week had sat fenced in, caved in, and abandoned.
The LongHorn building, which locals say dates to the 70s, was originally a Sambo's, and later a Skeeter's Mesquite Grille, a predecessor to LongHorn.

It remains unclear why over eight months have passed since the fire, and only now is the site being cleared.

Heidi Schauer, Media Representative for LongHorn Steakhouse, provided the following yesterday:

"Our landlord for the Toco Hills restaurant began the demolition of the building this week. We expect the demolition process to take two weeks."

"The landlord is in the planning phase of rebuilding the restaurant.  That’s all the information I have at this time."
 http://www.tonetoatl.com/

Photo credit Google maps

Kudzu Antiques President's Day Sale

http://www.kudzuantiques.com/

Dekalb Prison Bus Breaks down on the way to Courthouse

 From decaturish.com
 According to Decaturish, Public Information Officer Cynthia Williams stated on Tuesday:
"Due to an unanticipated mechanical problem that caused the shutdown of a Sheriff’s Office inmate transport bus this  morning, deputies had to transfer some 40 inmates from one transport bus to another while en route to court in downtown Decatur.  Following protocol, armed deputies from the Field and Court divisions were able to block traffic, create a secure perimeter and make the transfer within 15 minutes without incident or threat to the general public.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused for commuters, and we thank you for your patience and cooperation."

file photo.

Two New Anchors for Brookhaven Plaza

From Tomorrows News Today
The nearly 45,000 square foot anchor space, once home to beloved Harris Teeter, is slated to become a Stein Mart and a Total Wine & More.
The Harris Teeter opened in 1993, and was one of the more successful and popular locations for the Charlotte-based grocer, but it closed in 2001 amidst stiff competition and the chain's exit from the Atlanta market. Kroger, which purchased the lease, for a time operated it as a Kroger (approximately 2001-2003.) Even with Cherokee Plaza (former A&P turned Kroger) across the street, Kroger still controls and has been paying the lease (due to expire 08/2018) and had thus prevented another grocery store from opening.  Wilson and Sons Antiques opened in the space over six years ago but closed soon after. Since then, the space has been vacant. 
full story http://www.tonetoatl.com/2015/02/pigs-fly-brookhaven-plaza-getting-two.html#more

Behind the Scenes Look at Tour deCatur

Peach State Opera to present Arias in Avondale Sunday, Feb. 22 from 4-6 p.m.

Sent in by Nancy Martin
Peach State Opera to present Arias in Avondale Sunday, Feb. 22 from 4-6 p.m.

Peach State Opera will be bringing an afternoon of "Arias in Avondale" to The Bishop Restaurant in Avondale Estates, on Sunday, February 22, 2015 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. The restaurant is located at 124 N. Avondale Rd., Avondale Estates, GA 30002. Enjoy arias by some of Peach State Opera's fine performers accompanied by wine and delicious small plate appetizers. The Bishop Restaurant is handling reservations which may be made by calling 404-692-5454. The price for this afternoon of fine music, wine and appetizers is $35 per person which also includes a discount for anyone wishing to remain at The Bishop for dinner after the performance. You will enjoy hearing our singers in this very popular and elegant new setting in Avondale Estates. Those interested should make reservations now as this event will sell out quickly.

Largest Park for Atlanta Announced

Also Plans to Expand the Atlanta Streetcar
From ajc
Mayor Kasim Reed announced plans Wednesday to expand the Atlanta Streetcar and build what will become the city’s largest public park.

Speaking at the annual State of the City business breakfast, Reed said the city is taking the “first steps” to connect the Atlanta Streetcar’s downtown track eastward by three-quarters of a mile, ultimately connecting the rail line with the Beltline trail.
The mayor did not say how the expansion to the streetcar, which cost $96 million in its first phase, would be funded.

Plans for the streetcar to connect to the Beltline’s eventual 22-mile loop of parks and trails have long been in the works, but many are skeptical it will become reality because of lack of funding.
full story
Photo credit from
flickr member MATT' JOHNSON

Railroad Crossing Closures this Week

From http://thedecaturminute.com/ CSX will close the McDonough St. railroad crossing Mon., Feb. 2 and Tues., Feb. 3 for railroad tie maintenance. The Candler St. crossing will be closed Tues., Feb. 3 and Wed., Feb. 4. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians will be directed to detours at either the East Lake Drive or Commerce Drive underpasses. For more information, contact Project Civil Engineer Jennings Bell at 404-370-4104 or CSX Railroad at 877-835-5279.

Kia Super Bowl TV Spot with 007

Suburban Plaza Bowling is Closing

 Over at  Decaturish.com, Dena Mellick a contributor has reported updates on Suburban Plaza redevelopment.
Part of the update is that the Suburban Plaza Bowling alley is closing in April and maybe a bookstore will take up 9000 sq ft of that space.

Other stores that have signed a lease in the redevelopment are Walmart, LA Fitness, and Jo-Ann Fabric, HomeGoods and Craft Stores.
Read all about it at decaturish.com

ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR 2015 TOUR deCATUR (on Pi Day 3.14.15) IS NOW OPEN!

 Sent in by   decatureducationfoundation.org
ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR 2015 TOUR deCATUR (on Pi Day 3.14.15) IS NOW OPEN!
Once again Mizuno presents the Decatur Education Foundation Tour deCatur on 3.14.15 (aka Pi Day)!
Event includes a 5k/1-mile fun run/Tot Trot

ALL proceeds benefit children and youth across Decatur through the programs of the Decatur Education Foundation.

We are opening registration a week earlier than planned to be sure everyone has time to register at the early bird prices.  Visit www.TourdeCatur.com for information and the link to register online.
 (paper forms available soon)

Need a reminder of how great this community event is OR are you a first time Tour deCatur participant?  Check out this cool video from last year's event created by our talented friend Lance Dreesen of
Giant Leap Media Productions.
Tour deCatur - Decatur Education Foundation from Lance Dreesen on Vimeo.


New this year: 3 chances to pick-up your number and shirt before race day including at the first every
Tour deCatur Expo presented by Gas South. 

Registration here

Teenage Girl Pulled Off $ 4 Million Hong Kong Diamond Heist

 This story have Hollywood movie written all over it.
From:gawker.com

Police say they are searching for four diamond thieves after the theft of a diamond necklace worth more than $4.6 million in Hong Kong, Agence France-Presse reports. One of the thieves is reportedly a girl between 12 and 14 years old.

The three adults posed as "big spenders" to distract the shop's employees, an unnamed police source told the South China Morning Post.

Meanwhile, the girl stole a key to open the cabinet containing the necklace—"embedded with more than 30 diamonds totalling about 100 carats," the Post's source said—and lifted it off the display bust.

The other thieves, two women and one man, are all estimated to be aged between 30 and 40 years old. The four reportedly remained in the shop for about a half-hour before leaving without buying anything.

Decatur Farmers Market News

 
From: www.decaturga.com
Hours: 
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Jan. – Mar.) 
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Apr. – Dec.)

The Saturday location is just a block south off the square at 498 N McDonough St, Decatur GA 30030. Same block as Decatur High School. You can find available parking on the street, in the lot by the square, or the lot around the corner at W. Trinity Place and Commerce Dr. 

ALSO SOMETHING NEW: Now you can also order online and pick-up.  see below for details.

Decatur Farmers Market is excited to announce the launch of the brand new Decatur locally grown site! This is online... http://fb.me/7mhCDodVQ

Our Mission:

Our mission is to develop and strengthen farmers markets for long term sustainability and meaningful community impact, with a focus on building a stronger local food system.

Why Support Locally Grown?

Enhance local economy:

By purchasing produce and other items from local growers you are providing stability to your local economy through the support of local businesses.

Save natural resources:

Buying locally makes you an invaluable link in the process of saving resources such as fossil fuels and packaging materials. Also, we are right here in your community so the expense of transportation and delivery is kept to a minimum.

Provide learning opportunities:

Locally Grown supporters provide member growers the means to help educate our community about the importance of sustainable agriculture

Supporting a way of life:

The number of small farms in the United States has decreased dramatically in the last decade. Please help us preserve an honest and worthy means of making a living.

Ordering Options:

By using this site you get to order what you want, in the quantities you want, from the vendors you love the most! The Friday emails will list the products available for each week and you can always browse the website before you order.

How does it work?

Every Friday an email is sent to anyone who has signed up for an account with Decatur Locally Grown. Ordering will open when the email is sent and will remain open through 7pm on Monday evening. Growers will harvest and pack orders on Tuesdays and Wednesday mornings.

Order pick up is every Wednesday, between 3pm-6pm, at La Calavera Bakery, 747 E. College Ave, Decatur, GA, 30030.

Conan & Archer Battle Russian Mobsters

Fernbank Museum is Expanding

From: http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/


Fernbank Museum is Expanding

Imagine being able to enjoy the Museum’s immersive, fun and engaging programs in the great outdoors. Soon, that will be a reality.

What
We are excited to announce that the Fernbank experience is expanding to the great outdoors, featuring 10 acres of all-new experiences, environments and activities set in the natural woodlands adjacent to the Museum—just off the Terrace. These experiences, expected to open in the summer of 2016,* will feature fun, educational, family-friendly and inspiring ways to explore and enjoy nature.



Incredible new experiences will include:

    Dramatic vantage points high in the trees
    Extraordinary landscapes along a five-story change in elevation
    Footpaths winding through rugged, ever-changing terrain
    Spectacular tree pod experiences
    Imaginative play areas
    Immersive ground trails
    Unique sensory stations
    Elevated adventure nets
    Hands-on water cycle activities
    A restored wetland
    An education pavilion
    A simulated archaeology dig
    Elevated walkways

learn more

2015 Decatur Postcard Project

From: decaturartsalliance.org
The 2015 Decatur Postcard Project is looking for artists, students, residents, businesses and members of the community who would like to submit images that reflect different aspects of the city. If you have photos or other artwork that captures the essence of what Decatur is all about and would like to share, send in your work. Submissions are welcome from all ages.

A jury will select six pieces that best represent Decatur for a set of postcards, which will go on sale in May. The cards will be available at the Decatur Visitors Center and local retailers.

Keep in mind as you select your entries: brides like to use the postcards for wedding “Save the Dates” and parents like to use them for children’s thank you notes.

Submission deadline: Friday, March 27, 2015.
more here.

IRONMAN CHESS CLUB @ North Dekalb Mall Tuesday Jan. 20

From: northdekalbmall.com

IRONMAN CHESS CLUB

Where: North Dekalb Mall Food Court
Tuesday, January 20 (6:30 pm - 9 pm)
Join Championship Chess the first and third Tuesday of every month in the food court for free!



Coach Tim "The Ironman" Brookshear and other coaches will be on hand during the event. All ages are welcome!

 photo credit:  onsecrethunt.com

37th Annual Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival

From: http://atlantajugglers.org/festivals/gh15.htm
The location and date for the festival is confirmed at the Yaarab Shrine Center for Feb 6-8, 2015.
Details
    You'll find jugglers, unicyclists, hoopers, kendama, live music and family fun for all ages at the annual Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival. Know how to juggle? Want to pick up a few new tricks? Just like to watch and maybe learn how to juggle? Check out the fun at previous festivals. Ask at the registration table if you'd like a free juggling lesson. We're always happy to teach others.

    Competition for the famous PHIL award happens Saturday at 2 PM. Rules for the juggling competition are simple -- each competitor has 4 minutes, anything goes (NO FIRE!). Judges are selected from the audience and their only qualification is "no knowledge of juggling".

    Competitor must be registered for the festival and must sign up and pay for the competition before the cut-off time which is noon on Saturday (or when 12 have signed up).  The first 12 competitors are guaranteed a slot, we have two stand-bys in case someone drops out last minute--if show time allows, we let all 14 compete but cannot guarantee the stand-bys. Sign-up starts at 10 AM on Saturday.  No sign-ups on Friday night.

    Time limit is 4 minutes. Presentation must be on the stage which is (unfortunately) carpeted and there must be juggling (manipulating more objects than hands used) at least once in the 4-minute routine.

    Music on CD or thumb-drive (mp3 format) must be presented at the competitors meeting at 1 PM on Saturday --that is where you'll find out what music the other competitors plan to use--nothing keeps anyone from using any music, even if someone else is using the same.  Just remember this is a family event and choose appropriate music for children to hear.

    At the end of the competition the three judges retire for a maximum of 10 minutes to decide three winners.  Judges assign the appropriate category (Most Amazing, Most Stupendous, Most Spectacular, etc -- changes every year) to the winner.

Doraville GM Plant Update

From: http://clatl.com
The General Motors assembly plant in Doraville shuttered in 2008. Since then, the hulking, nearly empty beast, has served as a reminder to motorists along I-285 of metro Atlanta and America's past life as an industrial and manufacturing powerhouse.

Traces of the lettering on the main office remain. A sign warning visitors not to bring unauthorized chemicals still stands at the worker entrance. Grass sprouts through cracks in the vast parking lot.

In several months, most of these remnants will be gone. A construction worker last Friday hopped behind the controls of a trackhoe and ripped a chunk of bricks from the plant's midcentury office building, drawing applause from media, civic leaders, and developers. After shattered hopes and failed efforts to re-imagine the megasite, developers are promising that the 165-acre property, once teeming with activity, would hum again. The vision: a walkable and transit-connected residential and business hub, almost 30 acres larger than Atlantic Station, that could bring new parks, restaurants, and other amenities — not to mention a sense of place, something lacking in the 10,603-person community.

"It's going to give us a sense of meaning," says Doraville Mayor Donna Pittman. "It'll put us on the map."
read rest at http://clatl.com

photo credit: flickr member Exit to Future World

Decatur City Schools on Top 10 Best School Districts List

From: http://www.ajc.com
Buford, Decatur, Oconee County, Forsyth County and Bremen top a 2015 ranking of metro Atlanta's best public school districts. Fulton and DeKalb counties, and Atlanta Public Schools come in at Nos. 14, 45 and 43 on the list, respectively.
The Niche Rankings -- the product of Niche.com, a "reviews and insights" website focused on neighborhoods and education -- graded 8,738 school districts "based on dozens of key statistics and 4.6 million opinions from 280,000 students and parents."

Niche's top 10 public school districts in the metro Atlanta area are:

    Buford City Schools
    Decatur City Schools
    Oconee County Schools
    Forsyth County Schools
    Bremen City Schools
    Gwinnett County Schools
    Carrollton City Schools
    Morgan County Schools
    Marietta City Schools
    Cherokee County Schools

Read full story 

Fine Arts Exhibition Call for Entries for Decatur Arts Festival

From: http://decaturartsfestival.com

The Decatur Arts Alliance is now accepting entries for the Fine Arts Exhibition of the 2015 Decatur Arts Festival. Artist applications will be accepted through Callforentry.org Jan. 5 through Feb. 23. Jurors this year are Amanda Hellman, Molly Rose Freeman, and Ben Goldman.

Download the complete details here.
Check out the 2014 Fine Arts Exhibition here.

The South's Best Food Stop will be PCM

From:poncecitymarket.com

At the heart of Ponce City Market, the Central Food Hall is destined to be the most vibrant food hall and market in the Southeast. James Beard Award-winning chefs the likes of Anne Quatrano and Linton Hopkins will join Atlanta's most exciting young purveyors and restauranteurs to offer everything from Georgia and Carolinas-caught seafood, to classic burgers, savory crepes, and locally-made kimchee and Korean steamed buns.

Similar to the legendary food hall at Chelsea Market in Manhattan—also owned by the developers of Ponce City Market—the Central Food Hall will be a culinary gathering place within a revamped historic space, but with the distinct character and flavors of Atlanta.
more

Coca-Cola to elimate about 2,000 jobs in HOPES to save Billions.

 Coca-Cola to elimate about 2,000 jobs in hopes to save billions.
Below is a news story about this.
From: http://www.ajc.com
Coca-Cola said Thursday it will eliminate 1,600 to 1,800 jobs around the globe — including about 500 in Atlanta — as part of a major reorganization over the coming months aimed at saving billions of dollars during the next five years.

The beverage giant said employees were beginning to be notified today about the upcoming layoffs, though the restructuring of the company has not been finalized.

Coke employs about 130,600 people around the world, including a group of about 13,000 corporate employees who are primarily located in Atlanta.
more

Happy Birthday ELVIS

Uptown Funk

Decatur's Run With The Dogs - Frostbite 5K Saturday Jan 10

From: www.rungeorgia.com
Run With The Dogs - Frostbite 5K
About the race
Name: Run with the Dogs - Frostbite 5K
Distance: 5K Run/Walk
Original Date: Saturday, January 10, 2015, 9:00 a.m.
Location: Decatur, Ga.
Decatur High School

Decatur High School, Renfroe Middle School, Glennwood Academy
and City of Decatur elementary students, parents, alumni, friends,
neighbors and runners and walkers of all levels are invited to participate.
Participants are invited to run or walk with their dogs in a special group.

All proceeds will be used by the Decatur Bulldog Boosters to help fund
the sports programs at Decatur High School and Renfroe Middle School.

FTI awards Holly Theatre with $10,000 grant

Dahlonega  GA
Theatre news for Georgia

From: http://clatl.com
Dahlonega's Historic Holly Theatre just got a $10,000 helping hand. For their 2014-2015 Preservation Grant, the Fox Theatre Institute (FTI) awarded the theater with funding that will go toward restoration, and future planning. More specifically, the grant will be centered around the masonry for three sides of the Holly Theatre building and an environmentally conscious upgrade for the marquee.

Since 2008, the FTI has worked on 10 projects in the state, totaling more $332,000. The focus of the nonprofit has been the preservation of various arts venues. The Fox has been helping with strategic planning for Holly in the past few years, so the downtown Dahlonega institution can get some much-needed TLC.

"The Holly Theatre has a long history of being an economic engine in the downtown Dahlonega area and we are excited about the opportunity to boost their arts program," Molly Fortune, the Fox's director of restoration and operations said in a statement. "When the Fox was in trouble 40 years ago, the Atlanta community rallied together to 'Save the Fox.' Now we have the knowledge and resources to help other venues in Georgia not only restore their buildings, but also strengthen their communities."

The entire Holly Theatre restoration project, including a fresh new paint job and LED bulbs for the marquee, should be all said and done by the end of June. Along with FTI grant, Holly Theatre also received a $20,000 award from Georgia Tourism and Georgia Council for the Arts.

A Christmas Story Leg Lamp Stolen and Replaced by Randy

from: http://wivb.com/2015/01/03/new-leg-lamp-gifted-by-a-christmas-story-actor/

Thursdays Temps to be in low teens

From: http://www.ajc.com
After a wet first weekend of 2015, the first full work week of the New Year will end with temperatures cold enough to cause serious harm to plants, pipes and pets.

Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Karen Minton is forecasting lows in the low teens early Thursday, with afternoon highs expected to barely reach the 30s. Blustery winds Thursday are expected to send wind chills plummeting well into the single digits.
Until then, Minton said highs will be in the mid-40s Monday, mid-50s Tuesday and upper 30s Wednesday, with morning lows in the low 30s each day.

Prepare now for temps in the low teens by Thursday morning.

photo credit:  memespp.com

Diamond In the Ruff

From ajc.com

Decatur High Football field back in 1925

Decatur GA
Found this very small photo of Decatur High School football field in 1925. You can see the old water tower in background which was near the City Hall building. I wish it was a better quality picture.
Well it's better than nothing

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Possible Breach of Credit cards at Chick-fil-A

From the ajc
Chick-fil-A is looking into the possibility of a breach of credit cards used at some of its locations, according to an online site that broke the story about Home Depot’s hack.
Brian Krebs, who runs the website KrebsonSecurity.com, said financial institutions have traced credit card fraud to accounts used at Chick-fil-A stores around the nation. Krebs said he first heard about the possible hack in November, but the reports were spotty.
full story here. ajc.com

photo credit: rightwingnews.com

Happy New Year! -"Celebrate"

More Townhomes for E. Howard Ave

 From: atlantarealestateforum.com
Monte Hewett Homes is excited to announce East Howard Place, a new townhome community located in the heart of Decatur. Located at the corner of Hillyer Place and East Howard Avenue, this community will offer 24 unique three-story townhomes that are designed to complement the area’s local architecture: classic yet urban, with a nostalgic feel and unique features that speak to the nature of the community.
The exteriors of these townhomes will feature brick and granite with iron balconies, as well as private outdoor courtyards for relaxing and entertaining. In addition, the community will offer unique amenities, including a community garden and green space.
 

The first townhomes at East Howard Place are now under development, with completion dates placed for spring 2015. Priced from $589,900, there are two distinct floor plans available. The Hillyer will offer 2,242 square feet of living space with three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, while the Howard is the premium end-unit floor plan, complete with three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms throughout 2,000 square feet of living space.

Thanks to its proximity to downtown Decatur, residents at East Howard Place will enjoy a walkable lifestyle, with easy access to many of the dining, shopping and entertainment destinations that can be found in the area. A small sampling of the local attractions include Fellini’s Pizza, Leon’s Full Service, Cakes & Ale, summertime Concerts on the Square, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Glenlake Park, Druid Hills Golf Club, Kimball House Restaurant, Decatur Famer’s Market and the East Lake Golf Club. Plus, Decatur has its own MARTA station, providing residents with easy access to most of Atlanta’s other intown neighborhoods.
To be among the first to reserve your new townhome at East Howard Place in Decatur, contact sales agents Ted Blocker at 404-918-4455 and Sandy Bartow at 678-859-3922. For more information on East Howard Place
Map image credit :
  www.MonteHewettHomes.com.

Watkins Building in Decatur Ga. circa 1930

The Watkins building ( circa 1930) on E. Ponce de Leon Ave in Decatur GA.  held two grocery stores, The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company and Rogers.
Photo from the Maie W. Manget collection.

Kudzu Year-End Sale Now through Jan 4!

Atlanta Streetcar will be operational on Tuesday

From http://www.ajc.com/news/news/local/atlanta-streetcar-on-track-for-tuesday-opening/njZSd/
The Atlanta streetcar will be operational on Tuesday, reviving a form of public transit not seen in Atlanta since 1949.
The Tuesday opening of the long-delayed $98 million, four-car streetcar system will beat a self-imposed deadline by Mayor Kasim Reed by one day. It also will come just in time to greet tens of thousands of visitors to downtown Atlanta for the Dec. 30 Chick Fil-A Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome and the annual New Year’s Eve peach drop at The Atlanta Underground.
What awaits riders? A free ride over the next three months, Reed said, along a 2.7 mile loop around downtown Atlanta. Bounded mainly by Auburn and Edgewood avenues, access points include Centennial Olympic Park, the King Center, Georgia State University and the Peachtree Center MARTA rail station.