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July 2009 Newsletter of The Lake Claire Neighbors • A Neighborhood Association • www.LakeClaire.org V. 16, #07 Follow the Signs to the Hearth “Over here will be the children’s garden. That will be a beach area on this side of the pond.” Standing in an uneven field of red-brown dirt and mud only a few weeks ago, Shannon Smith pointed out the different features that would soon be the Hearth’s landscape. Located on Nelms Avenue, ad- jacent to the Lake Claire Land Trust and previously called the “Amada,” Shannon Smith ac- quired the buildings and land in 2008 and began transform- ing the site and its purpose. She changed its name to better fit its new function: “The Hearth” is named and established to provide the community with a meeting place. Its mission is “to cultivate communication, cre- ativity and sustainability within our community.” “Things are changing so much day to day. It is really coming together,” Smith says with pride as she takes a break from work- ing alongside a troop of faithful volunteers. For those of us who are not gifted visionaries, it’s easy to raise an eyebrow of sus- picion at such a statement when looking across land dug up and rutted out by rain and a backhoe. On the other hand, it is hard not to be drawn in by Smith’s exu- berance and the poetic vision of the Hearth. Even before its landscape began to take its shape and fill in, the Hearth has been making its mark dancing and art classes are held of the city, a place where people on the community: neighbors on week nights and reservations can slow down, appreciate and bring over their children to visit are coming in for parties, forums interact with nature, play and the resident chickens and pigmy and fundraisers. People are dis- talk with their neighbors, attend goats, gardeners tend their plots covering the Hearth as an es- classes and celebrate life. And in the community garden, belly cape from the hustle and bustle this fits exactly with Smith’s vi- What’s Inside? sion. Children, moreover play a special 2 July 4 Cook Off role in the Hearth’s vision. Smith 3 Lake Claire Officers/ is also the owner of SoulShine Newsletter Staff Children’s Studio, which will Advertising in LC run a children’s summer camp 4 from the Hearth and will provide 5 Summer Break after school classes there next 6 Bread and Puppet Show school year. As a long time child GI Rights Hotline care provider, Smith has come to 7 subscribe to the philosophy that 8 Donations, Dues, Help children grow and thrive best 8 Looking for an Editor when they have the support of a MusicFest 5K community. This rather ancient 9 philosophy is summed up on a 10 Kickin’ Off Summer sign that stands in front of her 11 Hope to the Homeless garden: “it takes a village to raise Classified Ads a child.” 12 In truth, you get the sense the THE CLARION IS PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. Hearth - Continued on page 2 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 2 Claire’s List Candler Park Market – A Good Neighbor Do you have a service or item that someone else might want? Some- I am writing to express my gratitude to the helpful employees at thing that perhaps can add to your income or be a thrifty option for The Candler Park Market. Having briefly left it on the counter, my a neighbor? Let’s help each other out through these tough times. We wallet was stolen by the person in line behind me. We were able to now have a list of home-based services and merchandise for sale, rent, identify the person who committed the crime with the closed circuit loan, wanted, barter or free locally. Add your home-based services video at the store. After being confronted with the video (or, more and items for FREE! Deadline: 15th of the month prior to publication. specifically, the fact of the video) the culprit “found” the wallet and Email submissions to [email protected]. returned it. Thank you to Greg, Denise, and Bobby for your help and Ebony Grand Piano in excellent condition. Beautiful lyrical sound! support. Even though they do not reside in the Lake Claire / Candler Maker is Knabe, first piano of The Metropolitan Opera Company. Park area, they are true assets of our community. Matching bench. 404.370.0882 for details. Thanks. Daniel S. Wright, Esq. Barter in-home personal training services. Fun Fitness, Inc. Neal & Wright LLC would like to barter in-home personal training services, participation Lake Claire Resident into group fitness programs or cardiovascular training. Ten years of professional experience with great results. Visit www.funfitnes- sonline. Contact Jaye Crawford at 404.378.5775 or jaye@funfitnes- Annual Fourth of July Cook-off sonline.com. Barter wish list: admin / girl Friday, errands, children’s at the Land Trust piano or violin instruction, lawn care, thai chi instruction, general This year’s theme is ‘Blueberries’ and the fun takes place under the home fix-it care. Land Trust gazebo. Need firewood? Will swap logs cut to fireplace size for help pulling If you have not participated before, here’s how it works. backyard kudzu. Alice Bliss, 404-373-8169. Contestants prepare a dish of their choice that contains blueberries. The blueberry dishes are dropped off at the gazebo at 3;45. “Judges” Bookkeeping Service Lilith Management Inc. is a bookkeeping ser- [i.e., anyone who wants to sample the dishes] pay $1.00 and the con- vice located in , . Both virtual and on site services are test begins at 4:00. In addition to the blueberry dishes, everyone provided. Small to medium size businesses are our specialty. More contributes a potluck item (no blueberries required). The grill will than 25 years experience. www.lilithmanagementinc.com. Call 404- be running as well, but if you have a specific grill desire, bring your 377-1502. own meat and our grill meister will grill it up for you. Lemonade and tea will be provided and folks are invited to bring their own drinks Need help with your resume? Need a second pair of eyes to look as well. over a paper you’re writing? Let a seasoned professional writer/proof- Votes are tallied for the best blueberry entry and the remaining blue- reader help! Call Susan at 404.371.1229. berry dishes as well as the potluck items are shared. Kids games Looking for employment Hello friends, I am looking for employ- follow. ment. Below is a list of my specialties, please forward this to all your Following the cook-off (and the loosening of belts) everyone can pro- contacts. Thank you. Melissa Bell. “Helping ceed to see their favorite city fireworks. Upon return, pyro masters of Hands”: * Thorough house cleaning * Child or elderly care * Garden- the ‘hood will perform their own fireworks show at the Land Trust. ing * Girl Friday; mature woman; references, own vehicle. For questions, e-mail Liliane at [email protected] 404.384.5989. Pet Sitting - Over 10 years vet & pet care experience. References HGTV’s “House Hunters” is coming to Atlanta available. Call Tina Smith 404.247.0914. HGTV’s hit TV series, “House Hunters,” is coming to Atlanta and sur- rounding areas this summer and we’re looking for homebuyers and Got used gutters? I’m looking for gutter scraps to cover about 25 real estate agents who want to appear on the show! feet. 404-377-2288. “House Hunters” follows buyers and their agents on the hunt as they Wood for art projects – throwing away perfectly good, old wood in find just the right house for them—and every story is different. If renovations? I’m looking for old heart pine or other seasoned wood for you’re an energetic and outgoing homebuyer currently working with frames for art and other handmade stuff. [email protected]. a real estate agent, we’d love to hear from you. We are currently looking for homebuyers who are: • Closing within the next 1-2 months, this includes buyers who are actively bidding on a home or newly under contract • Fun, enthusiastic, and have a great story to tell • Purchasing within a 90 minute drive of House Hunters airs weeknights at 9/8c on HGTV and is produced by High Noon Entertainment. To learn more about the show visit HGTV.com/HouseHunters To apply, contact Lexy Kohake, Associate Producer at (303)712-13207 or HouseHunters@highnoonentertain- ment.com

Hearth (cont’d from page 1)

Hearth building was created especially for children. Reminiscent of A Special Offer For Lake Claira tree ehouse, Residents! its light wood throughout, winding staircase, sun-filled

loft, nooks and wide open studio space entreats everyone who enters $8.99 Haircut to explore with the eagerness of Offer Good at Edgewood Retail Shopping Center Only a child. No doubt the Swiss Fam- Regular Price $13 Adult & $11 Child (10 and under)/Senior ily Robinson would feel right at home here – and so will kids. All Lake Claire resident children will receive a Great Clips coloring book and complimentary Lake Claire resident children will receive a With so much to offer the com- Great Clips coloring booklollipop! and complimentary (while supplies last) lollipop! (while supplies last) munity, Smith is eager to get A Special Offer For Lake Claire Residents! Your friendly neighborhood hair salon! the message out about this new Edgewood Retail Shopping Center (Kroger, Target, Lowes) community center. Besides the A Special Offer For 1245 Caroline St., Atlanta 404­477­1056 summer camp, she hopes to add Lake$8.99 Claire Haircut Residents! Hours 9­9M­F, Sat 8­7, Sun 10­6 a number of community classes Offer Good at Edgewood Retail Shopping Center Only regarding emotional and inter- Regular Price $13 Adult & $11 Child (10 and under)/Senior Lowes Target personal health, green living $8.99 Edgewood Retail Shopping and healthy lifestyles. Kroger & Beyond Bed, Bath Center Memorial Drive All Lake Claire resident children will receive a Great Clips coloring book and complimentary Little Street Caroline To learn more about the Hearth 5 Points GREAT CLIPS Haircutlollipop! (while supplies last) Moreland Avenue and all it offers, please visit

www.hearthatlanta.com. Your friendly neighborhood hair salon! Edgewood Retail Shopping Center (Kroger, Target, Lowes) 1245 Caroline St., Atlanta 404­477­1056 Hours 9­9M­F, Sat 8­7, Sun 10­6

Lowes Target

Edgewood Retail Shopping Kroger & Beyond Bed, Bath Center Memorial Drive Little Street Caroline 5 Points GREAT CLIPS Moreland Avenue

July 2009 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org 4 3

Next LCN Meeting Lake Claire Officers for 2009 Newsletter Staff Guest Editor: Diane Moore - [email protected] Thursday July 16 President: Diane Moore - [email protected] Advertising: Emily Veazey - [email protected] VP-Zoning: Dan White - [email protected] Lake Claire Neighbors meets ev- Layout: Tish Ganey - [email protected] ery third Thursday of the month. VP-Finance: Cara Stevens - [email protected] Distribution: Rose Goff - [email protected] Social Time begins at 6:30 pm; VP-Environment: Kathy Evans - [email protected] Meeting begins at 7 pm. at the Webmaster: Glenn Frankel - [email protected] Frazer Center. Meetings are open VP-Safety: Sheila Finciguerra - [email protected] The Clarion is published monthly. The deadline for to all. Past months’ newsletters VP-Communications - Glenn Frankel - [email protected] advertising and editorial consideration is the 15th and updates to agenda can be NPU Rep: Jennifer Sams - [email protected] of the month preceding each published edition. found at www.lakeclaire.org.

Lake Claire resident Marcus Veazey Lake Claire Softball Fans (from left to right): Bridget Stevens, Evan Fisher, Hazel Brady, Sam Fisher Lake Claire Softball Lake Claire Softball Schedule Date Time Opponent Location 6/28 4:00 pm Ormewood Coan Park The “Lake Claire Lager Affair,” launched its first season in May. 7/12 5:30 pm Reynoldstown Coan Park Whether it’s on the field or at the pub, this team means business. 7/19 4:00 pm East Atlanta East Lake Park Check out the photos from the stunning 25-8 victory over Virginia 7/26 4:00 pm Kirkwood East Lake Park Highland! A big thank you to Fox Brothers BBQ, the team sponsor 8/2 5:30 pm Edgewood East Lake Park which is located on DeKalb Avenue. Remaining games are listed on 7/12 5:30 pm Reynoldstown Coan Park the schedule at the left. Come out and cheer for the home team! For 8/9 5:30 pm Va Highlands East Lake Park more info contact Coach Kent Fisher at [email protected]. Playoffs 8/16, 8/23, and 8/30 Now in Candler Park!

Jump Start Your Summer Workout!

30 Day Fitness Boot Camps888-7-FIT For All Fitness Levels —NOW JOIN NOW! Lake Claire resident operationbootcamp.com Cecily Stevens Over 25 Atlanta Locations Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 4

The Scoop on Advertising in Lake Claire

Advertise in our Email Newscast This is a terrific way to get Lake Claire residents to jump directly to your web-site. For sponsorship opportunities with our Newscasts, please contact advertising at [email protected]. Advertise in The Clarion newsletter Classified ads: $3 per line for business ads Claire’s List: FREE to Lake Claire residents Display Ads (see chart below): Mark Your Calendar Steps to advertise in The Clarion: 1. Decide what type of ad you would like to run (Classified or Display ad), the size of Display ads July 2 Thurs. Recycling Pickup (see table below), and the number of issues in which you would like it to run (discount for 3 or more months). View previously-placed ads by looking at online copies of The Clarion. July 4 Sat. Independence Day! 2. Email your ad order, including the ad copy, to [email protected]. July 9 Thurs. Yard Waste Pickup Attach the image file. Most graphic file formats accepted (jpg, tiff, bmp, pdf). Image(s) must be 150 dpi minimum. We do not accept ads in Word or MS Publisher. July 16 Thurs.Recycling Pickup If using a graphic artist, please include their contact information. 3. Once we receive your email, we will reply to finalize your ad, including payment options. You July 16 Thurs. LCNA Meeting, can pay online using a credit card or checking account. 7 pm at Frazer Center It’s that simple! July 23 Thurs. Yard Waste Pickup Our deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication. For questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to working with you. July 30 Thurs. Recycling Pickup Pay your Ad Bill Online August 10 Mon. Atlanta Public If you’ve received an invoice from Lake Claire Neighbors to pay for an advertisement, pay online Schools First day of school ‘09- with a credit card or from a checking account. 10 Every Tuesday - Pot Luck Din- Clarion Display Advertising Rates ner. The Lake Claire Community Type Run Run Run Land Trust has a community pot Width x Height 1 Month 3 Months 6 Months luck every month until Tuesday, October 20. Check out their web- (Prepaid) (Prepaid) (Prepaid) site www.lcclt.org for dates and Business 1 3.625 x 2 $30 $75 $150 information about this and other activites at the Land Trust. Business 2 4.875 x 2.75 $30 $75 $150 Strip Ad 7.4375 x 2.5 $60 $150 $300 Through February 1, 2010 The Fernbank Museum of Natural Medium 1 3.625 x 4.4375 $60 $150 $300 History has launched a new ex- Medium 2 3.625 x 6.5 $60 $150 $300 hibition that showcases a collec- tion of “My Favorite Things”, all Large 7.4375 x 4.25 $120 $300 $600 selected by staff members from Half Page 9.9375 x 6.75 $150 $390 $780 each of the Museum’s depart- ments. “My Favorite Things” is Full Page 9.9375 x 13.5 $325 $900 $1800 included with Museum admis- * Custom sizes are available and will be priced based on size in square inches. sion and will be on view through February 1, 2010. Tickets can be purchased at fernbankmuseum. org or at 404.929.6400.

(Save the Date) October 5, Mon. - 15th Annual Park Pride Golf Classic Held at Druid Hills Golf Course. Contact Allison@ parkpride.org or Abigail@park- pride.org if your company is in- terested in participating. Spon- sorships start at $1,500. For more information about upcom- ing events to the Park Pride’s brand new online calendar to see all events & deadlines! Are you a fan of Park Pride? Join us on fa- cebook today www.facebook.com/ pages/Park-Pride Need 911 from a Cell Phone? Do not dial 911 from your cell phone. Instead, to contact the Atlanta Police Department, add this number to your cell phone: 404-658-6666. July 2009 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org 5 Summer Break for Your Kids and Yourself diverse developmental curriculum Monday through Thursday from As we grew up, there were few things in life more exciting then the 9:00am to 1:00pm. Our daughter comes home happy, stimulated and last day of school each year. The exhilaration grew with each tick of exhausted. She naps for another few hours and we’ve only the af- the clock… 3, 2, 1… Summer Vacation! The word “freedom” always ternoon to plan . . . . came to my mind as I contemplated almost three months of life with- Perfect! out school. Those memories have faded over the years, replaced by The bottom line is work and the endless semester. As my wife and I became parents, when dealing with little did we know those thoughts would return so quickly. This time, young children, the however, the word “panic” came to mind. What are we going to do with summer need not be our daughter all summer? any different than Keeping our daughter entertained throughout the summer has proved the school year. A a less daunting task than first imagined. We have stumbled into a little bit of planning well rounded, and manageable, daily schedule and thought we’d share and scheduling goes a some of our findings. Our daughter is just under two, so I focused on long way for an enjoy- activities that are appropriate for all ages. able summer for both Our first discovery was that the most enjoyable regular outings were parent and child. convenient and nearby. We roll without the in-car DVD player so longer Good luck to all you car trips are out. Fortunately, Atlanta is host to many child-friendly parents, and we look destinations. Obvious choices include Georgia and Atlanta forward to seeing you Children’s Museum. Both offer memberships that pay for themselves at the park! in fewer than three visits, and both provide refuge from the heat and Cliff Edelmann, humidity. The aquarium practically empties out after 3pm on week- his wife Lindsey, days, so a late afternoon visit provides a wonderful opportunity to and daughter Ame- explore without crowds. The Fernbank Museum is also close, and we lia are Lake Claire have heard many wonderful things about their offerings. Our favorite residents. Cliff works outside destination is Atlanta, which also provides a great mem- from home and bership price. Any visit to the zoo during the summer should occur in maintains the title, the AM (they open at 9:30 am), as the afternoon heat also affects the Parent-in-Charge, animals. Your child’s interest is directly correlated to the movement Monday-Friday. He of the animals: no movement equals no interest. welcomes any sugges- We are also fortunate to have a plethora of parks and playgrounds tions for activities: nearby. Lake Claire Park, Candler Park, Adair Park, and the new cedelmann@esqmar- Freedom Park playground are all extremely close and keting.com) provide a wonderful environment for our children to hone their burgeoning physical and social skills. We like to rotate our visits to each park to keep things interest- ing. If the weather interferes, indoor playgrounds such as Leapin’ Lizards in Decatur offer a solution. Trips to the park in the mid-morning, or late afternoon, followed by lunch or dinner, results in one sleepy child (and one happy parent). Park visits are also a great way for par- ents and children to make new friends. While meeting new groups of parents, why not organize regular play- groups? Playgroups help children and adults develop relationships, and both will begin to look forward to the weekly gatherings. You can let the kids simply play, or you may organize arts and crafts projects. Great craft suggestions can be found at FamilyFun.com. Lastly, who says school is out for summer? Most pre- schools and parent’s morning out programs offer summer programs, many with space still available. For example, Smart Toddlers (www.smarttoddlers.net) maintains a

Join the Girls Health Sounding Board The HHS Office on Women’s Health is expanding its girlshealth.gov Sounding Board and is looking for girls between the ages of 9 and 14 who are outgoing, passionate, and active in school or their commu- nity. They are currently accept- ing applications and ask that you consider telling girls you know to enter. Being part of the Sounding Board gives girls the opportunity to share their opinions on anything from their favorite Web sites to the issues concerning their peers. Plus, as a member of the Sounding Board, girls will get free promotional ma- terials such as backpacks, t-shirts, and baseball hats for participating in the discussion! The complete contest and application package can be viewed using the link below. The deadline to apply is August 31, 2009. Girlshealth.gov Sounding Board application package: www. girlshealth.gov/about/beheard/in- dex.cfm. COLOR

Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 6 Bread and Puppet Theater Submitted by Kathy Evans

Art should be as basic to life as bread according to Bread and Puppet, the theater troupe that stopped over in Atlanta (and Lake Claire) in May. Historically known for sharing fresh home-made bread with their audiences as a means of creating community, members of the troupe broke bread in Lake Claire with several volunteers who housed them on their recent visit to Atlanta. The troupe was founded in NYC in 1963 by sculptor and puppeteer Peter Schumann. Known for its pageantry, over-sized puppets, and themes of politics and peace, Bread and Puppet is one of the oldest non-profit, self-supporting theatrical companies in the country. Now based in Ver- mont, they regularly tour the U.S. and internationally. While in Atlanta, the group held performances at gallery and the Lake Claire Land Trust. Eight performers, commanded puppets, sang, danced, and played instruments while they explored themes ranging from the luxury of automobiles to war and peace and the “public execution of money.” An act not to be missed if they’re in your neighborhood again! July 2009 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org 7 ExPand Band, Sedition, Fairies, Fun, and GIs? On Saturday, May 9, the Lake Claire Land Trust hosted another great night of fun for a cause. The Benefit for the GI Rights Hotline featured The Atlanta Sedition Or- chestra, Kodac Harrison, the Ex- Pand Band and a special Grate- ful Gluttons Fairy House Tour of Homes. For more information see www.girightshotline.org, www. atlantaseditionorchestra.org and www.gratefulgluttons.com. At right: Bill Fleming with the Ex- Pand Band. Below L to R: Alisia Zagarra, Aliza Fleming. Photos by Kathy Evans and Logan Casey. Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 8 Lake Claire Needs Teach Your Child to Donations Needed Neighborhood Dues Clifton Sanctuary Ministries: Editor for The Clarion be a Wild Thing in the By Dan White Have you ever considered edit- Every month CSM posts a list of Garden needed items on the marquee ing? I, your fearless editor, need Where does LCNA’s money go Oakhurst Community Garden at the corner of McLendon and a break! It has been a genuine Project is offering July classes for and why do we choose to spend pleasure to work with all the Connecticut. A BIG THANKS children. Classes are designed to the neighbors who have been it on what we do? Several peo- wonderful neighbors who help for two- and three-year-olds ac- ple have asked that question as make it happen, If you’re inter- dropping off donations. companied by their parent[s] or Lutheran Services of Geor- of late and I hope this response ested or have questions please guardian[s]; four- and five-year- will assure folks that the money contact Diane Moore at presi- gia is currently working with olds on their own; and six- and 85 refugees and their families to is spent wisely and mindful of [email protected] seven-year olds on their own. For the best interests of the neigh- Gay Arnieri, editor provide resources for rent, food more info on these classes and and employment. These families borhood and the quality of life Note from Diane: Under Gay’s others, go to: oakhurstgarden. it provides. The editorship The Clarion has trans- are living in apartments without org/classes.html#children or give any type of furniture. The cur- executive formed its look, content and even OCG a call: (678) 642-4977 committee gone green! Advertising revenues rent economic crisis and budget is charged have increased as well. Kudos to cuts from government sources each this super-talented neighbor who Visit lakeclaire.org have created a drastic increase Catch up on The Clarion news- year with has contributed so much to the in the demand for social services letter, find advertising info, sign- neighborhood. - not only from those typically in bringing up for the Lake Claire Email need, but also from those newly recommen- newscast, pay your dues, pay for at risk of poverty. If you are able dations to the Fenced Dog Park in your ads, download variance pro- to donate any type of furniture, membership on expen- Lake Claire? cedures, take the security patrol pots and pans, etc, then please ditures exceeding $500 subject By Colleen Bittinger survey, sign up for lakeclaire- contact Robert Jackson, Associ- to approval by popular vote of In response to C. Stevens con- [email protected], ate Director of Development, Lu- those in attendance at the No- cerns over unleashed dogs in the see the schedule of monthly theran Services of Georgia, 1330 vember meeting of each year. park (Dogs on the Run), I think LCNA meetings and NPU meet- West Peachtree St. Suite 300, For the past six years of my in- that a fenced dog park would be a ings, find info on City of Atlanta Atlanta. (678) 686-9602 or rjack- volvement with LCNA the exec great solution. I also had my dog recycling and trash pick-up and, [email protected] committee has recommended attacked while walking through well, you get the picture. Help the Fugees Bike to funding to non-profits based in Lake Claire Park, by a dog whose Camp. This summer the Fugees Lake Claire or adjoining neigh- owner rushed over to say “he has Host Families Needed are attending a six-week Aca- borhoods. The revenue to fund never done that before!” Fortu- for International Stu- demic Boot Camp at Agnes Scott this charitable giving is largely nately my dog was not injured, College. Their mode of transpor- derived from advertising rev- but I can’t imagine a child being dents Visiting in July tation? Bikes. Yes, boys between This summer 40 high school stu- enues generated by The Clarion in that situation. Though I love the ages of 14-18 are biking about dents will be arriving in Atlanta Newspaper - whose volunteer ed- to let my dogs run off-leash, I 12 miles a day from Clarkston from Beijing. Approximately ten itor, graphic artist, advertising strongly agree it is not appropri- to Decatur. Do you have a road families are needed to host stu- co-coordinator, and distributors ate in public areas. I have been bike that you can donate? If so, dents for a one-day homestay provide countless hours of time making the long drive to Brook please contact Jessie Virdi, 404 and cross-cultural immersion to this excellent publication. Due Run dog park (Dekalb County) 519-2104 or Jessie@fugeesfam- program. The homestay program to our affluent neighborhood where the dogs and I can exercise ily.org is sponsored by Nacel Open Door demographics, advertising rev- without leashes. It is a beautiful The Fugees Family is the only ATL. Nacel is a full-service edu- enue has steadily increased al- example of a well-run, volunteer- organization in Georgia that pro- cational organization focusing on maintained, and county-support- vides programming specifically lowing LCNA to provide a broad international education by pre- ed dog park. I would love to see for refugee boys. By tapping into array of services directly to the paring students to be successful such a facility here in our neigh- soccer, the most popular sport neighborhood and non-profits. in cross-national endeavors. If borhood. in the world, the Fugees Family Fully 90% of LCNA’s revenues you are interested in hosting a Note: contact president@ undertakes its mission to level come from advertisers. When student please contact Joan M. lakeclaire,org if you are interest- the playing field and give our people speak of dues as a major Roberts, Atlanta Area Director, ed in exploring a fenced dog park kids the same chance at being revenue source for LCNA, they Asian Education Programs, 404- in Lake Claire. successful as everyone else’s. For are sadly misinformed. 520-0511. info, go to: fugeesfamily.org. The past six years has seen a consistent pattern to LCNA year end giving. The following entities or activities have been funded based on Lake Claire’s residents’ approval (usually unanimously). The Frazer Center and Forest Clifton Sanctuary Ministries Freedom Park Conservancy Harold Ave Green space Lake Claire Park Land Acquisition Lake Claire Clarion Newspaper Lake Claire Website Annual Halloween Parade Mary Lin Foundation

The executive committee wel- comes your suggestions for this year funding grants. Contact [email protected] July 2009 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org 9 Crime Watch Block Captains: MidSummer MusicFest 5K a Big Hit for the Kids Atlanta Police - Zone 6 (our zone) Ruby Naylor, Block Captain Liaison [email protected] Though the temperatures were approaching the boiling point by 10 am, over 350 runners started from Mary Lin Elementary to take on the Mid- 404-371-5002 Summer MusicFest 5K Adolphus Ave Cecily [email protected] on June 20 before the Arizona Ave Chris [email protected] big concert in the park. Clifton Road Sheila - [email protected] The route took run- Clifton Road Scott - [email protected] ners along Freedom Connecticut Ave Josh - [email protected] Parkway up to More- Connecticut Ave Kay - [email protected] land, back by Candler Delaware Ave Alicia - [email protected] Park golf course, up Delaware Ave Beth - [email protected] the treacherous Clif- Gordon Ave Cynthia - [email protected] ton Terrace hill, down Hardendorf Ave Robert - [email protected] Clifton, Page and to Harold Ave Sarah - [email protected] the finish line on Ter- Harold Ave Gay - [email protected] race Avenue. Phrases Harold Ave Kathy - [email protected] like “hottest race ever” Howard Circle Karla - [email protected] and “that hill was a Lake Claire residents Daniel Steppe, Em- Indiana Ave Priscilla - [email protected] killer” were heard as ily Veazey and Boyd Baker shown here with Lakeshore Drive David - [email protected] racers cooled off in Foundation President Cherie King Leonardo Ave Tim - [email protected] the grass by the Can- Leonardo Ave John - [email protected] dler Park playground. Matthews Ave David - [email protected] Volunteers from the McLendon Ave Denessa - [email protected] school and community McLendon Ave Cheri - [email protected] cheered racers on and Nelms Ave Amy - [email protected] made sure that every- New York Ave Reuben - [email protected] thing went off without Oxford Place Covered by Southerland Terrace Captains? a hitch. Palifox Drive Kent - [email protected] The race was orga- Palifox Drive Brandon - [email protected] nized by the Mary Lin Ridgecrest Road David - [email protected] Education Foundation Ridgewood Road Anyone? Bueller? as a way to support the Southerland Terrace Ted - [email protected] teachers and students Sutherland Place - Any volunteers? Contact Sheila at Mary Lin. Local Mary Lin teachers Michelle Partridge, Ash- Tuxedo Ave - Any volunteers? Contact Sheila sponsors Little 5 Cor- ley Kulik, Jennifer Fisher and volunteer Ben If interested in volunteering, email Sheila at [email protected] ner Tavern, Candler Rogers helped keep the racers on course and

Park Market, Opera- hydrated Lake Claire Security Patrol? tion Boot Camp, Red By Jennifer Horn Level Renovations, With crime continuing to escalate and the economy still struggling, Spot for Dogs, The the Atlanta Police Department is doing the best it can with the bud- Flying Biscuit, Great get shortfalls and the current furlough. We have seen our neighbor- Clips at Edgewood, hood take action with the Yahoo Groups Neighborhood watch, and The Renovation Com- the block captain strategy. Unfortunately we believe we may need to pany, The Porter Beer take more action. At the last association meeting in May we discussed Bar, LiveOakEvents. what other neighborhoods in our com, and The Moog vicinity are doing such as Grant Gallery made it a ter- Park, Morningside-Lenox, West rific community race New Amazing Tacos! End, East Lake, and Inman and helped raise a few Park. They have all initiated a thousand dollars for Security Patrol that is supported the school. Thanks to with separate funds from the ho- everyone who came out Lake Claire residents Maizy and Traci Swit- meowners who “belong” to a se- and made it a tremen- zer helped ML teacher Kerri Mercer hand curity patrol and have tasteful dous day! out water at the finish line yard signs indicating their par- ticipation. The security patrol is a marked car (either owned such as Inman Park or utilize a Secu- Come Grow with Us! rity Patrol magnet on officer’s car such as Grant Park). The marked Explore what Oakhurst Cooperative cars are manned with off duty Atlanta officers who carry the Preschool can offer your family . . . Est 1996 Free Validated APD radio so they are aware of emergency and non-emergency Huge Garden Patio! Parking • Morning classes five days a week for children 2 – 4 years • Beside our calls in the neighborhood while 16 Beers Huge Patio! they are patrolling the streets of • Everyday hands-on environmental education • on Tap the neighborhood. The police are • Commitment to parental involvement in education • Great Margaritas! armed and have the authority $4.95 Frozen Raging to make arrests. The shifts they • Nature-centered curriculum • 75 $2.Rita PintsSweetwater Sun. to Wed.Pints work are randomized through- Mon. to Wed. out the week. We are currently To schedule a tour, contact us at Buy one Taco Plate, looking for interest in participa- Get a 2nd entree tion of a similar type of security [email protected] or call 404.474.7255 patrol for Lake Claire. FREE Please take a few minutes to up to $5, one per table take our quick survey. Access Expires 11/15/07 the survey by going to lakeclaire. 141 Sycamore St. |Decatur org or lakeclaireneighborwatch@ 404-377-3311 yahoo.com. Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 10

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Kickin’ Off Summer in the Neighborhood The Second Annual New York Avenue (and many friends) Memorial Day potluck helped kick off summer in Lake Claire. The party is or- ganized by the good folks of New York Ave. but included neighbors of all ages from all around.

1. Chris and Brooke Schembri, Shirelle Andrews, and Louis Calderon (standing) 2. Sidewalk compadres including (but not limited to) Cole Chanler, Devon Haller, Ian McKenna, Micah Eisen. 3. Charlie Shober 4. Abigail Hitch 5. Robert Poels and Brynan Hadaway 3

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5 July 2009 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org 11 Aided by The Mercantile, ing environmental education to ing environment that synthe- young children in a way that en- sizes the best practices in early Lake Clarions Declare Independence! gages them, intrigues them, and childhood education with the By Susan Drake Chef Samantha and her team creates an empathy and respect talents of a creative professional Yes, the cooks of Lake Claire contribute to our community for all living things and their staff and focuses on integrating have spoken—we’ve voted to let life by sponsoring such offerings habitats. family and community into that Chef Samantha of The Mercan- as cookbook signings by award- OCP hopes to provide even our environment. tile do the cooking, whipping up winning chef-authors; demon- youngest children – many as If you would like more informa- culinary delights for our families’ strations of good eats such as young as 2 years old - not only tion about OCP, our green phi- dining pleasure! And now that strawberries dipped in choco- with a gentle awareness of their losophy of living and learning, The Mercantile is open seven late; special holiday events for impact on the world around them, and our nature-based curricu- days a week, these lunch and children; and samplings of such but also an understanding of how lum, please visit www.oakhurst- dinner specials are even easier delicacies as toasted spiced pe- they can make a positive differ- coop.com. Enrollment for the to come by. cans, hummus, and seasoning ence. To accomplish this, OCP’s school year 2009-2010 is happen- Located at the corner of Clif- blends for your grill. Green Committee and Curricu- ing now! ton Road and DeKalb Avenue, Yes, it’s Independence Day in lum Committee work constant- The Mercantile has served Lake Lake Claire. Drop by The Mer- ly with parents and teachers to Come to the next Claire and Candler Park since cantile and join the culinary expand and improve the green 2008. And Chef Samantha and revolution! curriculum and strengthen the LCN Meeting and her crew make dining with them underpinnings of the preschool’s help your neighbors! as effortless as possible. Lake Oakhurst Coopera- core mission and values. Through Next Lake Claire Meeting – July Clarions need only visit www. conscious choices in the class- 16. Social time is 6:30 and meet- themercantileatl.com and sign tive Preschool - room such as recycling, compost- ing starts at 7:00. HERE’S AN up to receive a weekly email Going Green with ing, and reusing of materials, OPPORUNITY TO HELP YOUR describing the week’s offerings. OCP reduces its impact on the NEIGHBORS - We are ask- Young Children earth’s resources and hopefully Then relax, sit back, and antici- By Denessa Munsterman, OCP ing neighbors to donate canned has begun a lifelong appreciation pate notification that dishes such Parent and Lake Claire Neighbor goods and other items to the men of sustainability for its children as Mom’s meat lasagna, Pad thai, ([email protected]) at the shelter sponsored by Clif- and their families. and The Mercantile’s own Local While many private and public ton Sanctuary Ministries located The Oakhurst Cooperative Pre- veggie plate are waiting for you! kindergarten classes are begin- on McLendon and Connecticut in school (OCP) is a non-profit, par- While you’re picking up dinner, ning to introduce environmen- Lake Claire. Donations will be ent cooperative overseen by a The Mercantile now offers you tal awareness into their curri- collected at each monthly meet- board of parent volunteers. The the perfect pairing of wine. Hav- cula, few programs start earlier; ing. Thank you for your generos- school was founded in 2005 with ing secured their alcohol license preschoolers are not commonly ity! –LCNA Officers the goal of creating an ethnically, just in time for summer enter- thought of as an easy age group culturally and economically di- taining, the eatery also features to start teaching the importance verse community that is united Giving Hope to beer from the local Sweetwater of taking care of their planet. But through its commitment to pa- the Homeless Brewery. All wines are priced Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool rental involvement in children’s Excerpted from an article by Ju- under $15 a bottle and wine tast- (OCP)’s parents and teachers learning and development. OCP lie Bawden Davis with permis- ings are scheduled weekly. aim to do just that, by introduc- strives to create a dynamic learn- sion from Toastmaster magazine, April 2009 When Jeannine Jean-Pierre TOUGH MARKET discovered a Toastmasters club composed of homeless men in her territory, the new area governor TOUGH AGENT at first had misconceptions about YOUR REALTOR, YOUR NEIGHBOR FOR OVER 10 YEARS the members and was reluctant to visit. “When I got there and Michael Lewis.net heard their stories, though, I re- 404-402-4643 alized I had misjudged them and they were just people who have a lot to offer but ended up home- less because of circumstances.” The members of Clifton Sanc- tuary Ministries Toastmasters Neal & Wright LLC meet at the shelter where many Ar e Yo u Your Family... Your Business... are residents. The club was char- Your Firm! tered in 2007 by Meredith Turn- er, a longtime Toastmaster who Re a d y To initially visited Clifton as a vol- unteer. “I got a really good feeling Be On Th e from the men at the shelter and thought starting a club would be * Adoption * Corporate good for their self-esteem and So l d Li st ? could help them in the world,” * Commercial & LLC Real Estate Formation says Turner. Clifton provides year-round over- * Wills & Estate YOUR NAME Planning YOUR* Other NAME night and transitional housing. Business Legal It cares for 30 men a day and has CALL KEN PRICE TODAY * Probate Services served more than 9,000 since 1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321 1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321 1979. Alice Jenkins, Exec. Direc- Visit our Web site at tor, is thrilled with the addition 404-347-3099WWW.APPLE.COM WWW.APPLE.COM [email protected] Sherry V. Neal, J.D. [email protected] of the club, saying its effective- ness has exceeded her expecta- PriceT 123-456-7890 Sells!!! (678) 596-3207 T 123-456-7890 F 123-456-7891 [email protected] 123-456-7891 P.O. Box 5207 tions. “Initially, the men’s self- Atlanta, GA 31107 esteem is very low,” she says. Daniel S. Wright, J.D. “Learning to speak makes them (678) 613-7850 feel better about themselves and We’re in the neighborhood! Greater Atlanta [email protected] YOUR NAME YOUR NAME Homeless continued on page 12

1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321 1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321

WWW.APPLE.COM WWW.APPLE.COM [email protected] [email protected]

T 123-456-7890 T 123-456-7890 F 123-456-7891 F 123-456-7891

YOUR NAME YOUR NAME

1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321 1234 MAIN STREET ANYTOWN, STATE 54321

WWW.APPLE.COM WWW.APPLE.COM [email protected] [email protected]

T 123-456-7890 T 123-456-7890 F 123-456-7891 F 123-456-7891

Avery 5371 Lake Claire Clarion @ www.LakeClaire.org July 2009 12 Homeless continued from page 11 Business Classifieds gives them the courage to go out and interview for jobs and advocate Business classified ads ONLY $3 per line prepaid! Get info at newsletter@ for themselves.” lakeclaire.org The club’s current president, Prince Davies-Venn, is chaplain and Lighthall’s Cleaning, est. 1989, one time or regular service, great prices and case manager at Clifton. He has seen dramatic transformations in references, earth friendly products. Also offer in-home pet services. Debbie club members. “They come to see that homelessness is not hopeless- Lighthall, owner/operator (404)893-9308 East Atlanta resident. ness and disability is not inability,” he says. “Those involved with NOOK AND CRANNY MAID SERVICE 404-688-3766 “Let Us Do Your Toastmasters often find jobs more quickly than others; the club’s sup- Dirty Work!” Est. 1990 Dependable, personalized service, weekly, bi-weekly, portive atmosphere gives them enthusiasm and energy necessary to monthly, one-time. Move-in/Move-outs, Spring cleanings-homes/offices. Li- censed, bonded, and insured. do what needs to be done.”

ABOVE THE HEDGES Hot’lanta Summer and livin’ should be EASY! Sip a Members of the Clifton club have inspiring stories to share: Mint Julep and let us make cool work of landscape chores. Design, Instal- lations, or Maintenance. Ask about our bi-weekly deal-nice on your budget! Keith Pinder Free Estimates--Licensed & Insured ADMIRATION GUARENTEED! 770- Keith Pinder says he was at the lowest point of his life when he 621-(YARD) 9273 walked into Toastmasters at Clifton. “The club allowed me to keep my head up and my mind off my troubles and focus on something greater PIANO TUNING, REPAIR, REBUILDING, SALES Jane Purtzer 404-378- 8310. than myself,” says the former Baltimore resident. “When you speak and people say you did a good job, that boosts your self-esteem and THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE by licensed therapist. A graduate of the Atlan- ta School of Massage and the Florida School of Massage. Located in Lake gives you fuel to do something better,” he says. “I’ve learned to chan- Claire. Charles Haver, LMT, CMT at (678)938-3053. nel my energy and thoughts into something productive.” As a result of the contacts he made in Toastmasters, Pinder found work and is SPANISH TUTOR All levels. Pablo Aspe 404.771.7341 p_aspe@yahoo. com now opening his own staffing business with his wife, Nadira Adama, whom he married last April. HOLDEN’S LANDSCAPE & TREE CARE 770-912-9844 Certified Arborist/ Greg Ellis Master Gardener. Tree/Shrub plantings, Hazardous tree evaluation, Tree Maintenance, Lawn maintenance and installation by Quentin Holden. Greg Ellis never imagined he’d be using the skills he learned in Toast- masters so soon after joining. “I liked the club the first time I attended, PETS/BABYSITTING Mature teenage girls can provide babysitting and pet but I didn’t see how it was going to help me. Then I got a job as a tutor cares. Call Selena 404-378-5683 or Emily 404-377-4569. and they asked me to do what amounted to an Ice Breaker,” he says. Ellis formerly worked as a forklift operator until he lost his job be- cause of a company relocation. He then attended school to be a dialysis technician, but found that he didn’t like working with blood. “I tried to find another job, but couldn’t and eventually ended up on the street,” he says. When seeking work, he fell and broke his wrist, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. “The only job I could find with a broken wrist was as a tutor, and it turns out I love the work,” he says. “Just as Toastmasters has For a limited time Mary Lin Elementary is accepting ads done for me, I try to give the kids for our 2009-2010 School Directory. Advertise and the gift of self-esteem.” become a Community Partner with Mary Lin! Edward Underwood Edward Underwood came full Reach more than 400 parents, teachers and staff and circle when he arrived at Clif- support our neighborhood school. Rates start at $75. ton. He and his mother attended For details, contact [email protected] church there when Underwood was a child and lived down the street in low-income housing. “I used to play basketball in the Sanctuary’s parking lot and rake leaves to earn money for school clothes,” says Underwood, who has fond memories of those days, before he got involved with drugs and alcohol. After battling a 23-year addic- tion and separating from his wife, he found Clifton and was attending Toastmasters a week later. “Seeing what the program has to offer was exciting to me because I’ve always thought that I’d like to go into minis- try,” says Underwood. “My Ice Breaker went well and brought up a lot of emotions that made me realize that I have a lot to share. Toastmasters has really inspired me and increased my desire to make a difference.” Clifton Toastmasters is open to all and meets at 369 Connecticut Ave. at 3 PM, the first and third Sunday of each month. Contact Prince Davies-Vinn for informa- tion at404-373-3253, ext. 7.