FAB FRIDAYS DEC. 4,11,18 see page 5

City of Decatur Clear zone

DECEMBER 2020 Volume 31 • Number 5 FocuOFFICIAL PUBLICATION OFs THE CITY OF DECATUR, GEORGIA

COMMUNITY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THIS MOST EXTRAORDINARY YEAR CITY News City of Decatur

Strategic Plan 202s: Learn & Discuss The Decaturocu Focus is a joint publication of the sCity of Decatur,F the Decatur Downtown Development Authority The Roundtables process included 800 and the Decatur Business Association. It is a newsletter SUBJECT MATTER LINE-UP: intended to provide announcements and information registrants who contributed thousands of related to events, activities, and businesses in the city of comments. Many of these comments about Housing: Decatur. The purpose of the newsletter is to promote the city and encourage the exchange of information among Decatur’s future were in agreement, but some Thursday, Dec. 10 • 4-5:30 p.m. residents, business owners and the school system. Letters topics revealed conflicting perspectives about to the editor, editorials or other opinion pieces are not how Decatur should chart its course for the Equity & Racial Justice: published. All press releases, announcements and other Thursday, Jan. 14 • 4-5:30 p.m. information received for publication are subject to edit- next 10 years. ing. Information found in the Focus is also posted on The 202s will allow for a deep dive on these Climate Change: Decatur’s official website at decaturga.com. The deadline for submitting articles, announcements or advertising is topics. After hearing from subject matter February 2021, Date TBD the first day of the month preceding publication. Contact: experts, we will join together in virtual dis- Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, cussion groups to help understand tradeoffs 404-371-8386; fax 404-371-1593; email:

[email protected]. Clear zone and find common ground among differing participate, you may call in at 312-626-6799, perspectives. Input from these groups will be then type in the access code assigned to each used to form recommendations on how the meeting, or register for the video conference Strategic Plan should address these issues. at decatur2030.com. The 202s will seek to answer the question: Can’t make it at the scheduled time but still “What does success look like in a community want to be part of the conversation? Watch of 25K people within a metropolitan region the recordings, download the discussion DECATUR CITY COMMISSION of nearly six million people?” guides, and form a small group to discuss the Patti Garrett...... Mayor Speakers will be announced closer to the questions. Submit your notes at decatur2030. Tony Powers...... Mayor Pro Tem event. Visit decatur2030.com for all details. com/get-connected or decaturdestination@ George Dusenbury...... Commissioner All events will occur on Zoom and will be gmail.com. Lesa Mayer...... Commissioner Kelly Walsh...... Commissioner recorded and available after the meeting. To

A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur Celebrates the Holidays with Virtual Giving he volunteers with A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur were de- BOARD termined that Decatur’s children and senior citizens would be able to celebrate the holidays in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic. A Chris Sciarrone, Chair team of three creative women, Christine Russell, Anna Summer- Darren Comer • Linda Curry T Tony Leung • Conor McNally lin and Vandy Vail-Dickson, developed a plan to provide gift cards and Noah Peeters • Lisa Turner vouchers for books from Little Shop of Stories for children and to order actual gifts from senior citizens’ wish lists that would be mailed directly to them. The plan hinged on the Decatur community stepping up and making monetary donations. Many donors had been purchasing gifts for children Decatur Business and seniors since the program began 26 years ago. They loved to go shop- Association ping for an actual person. As much as they would have loved to directly purchase gifts, they cared more about making the holidays a happy memory DECATUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION for these children and senior citizens. Thanks to Chris, Anna and Vandy, and the many, many donors who thought of others first, Susan Sparks...... President Decatur was able to have its first (and hopefully, last) Virtual Season of Giving/Christmas Daryl Funn...... President-Elect Jill Joplin...... Treasurer Decatur. Emily Holden...... Secretary Donations are still being requested to help finish covering the cost of the gifts. Kyle Williams...... Past President Go to legacydecatur.com/give and designate your donation to A Season of Giving/Christmas Decatur. Legacy Decatur is a 501 (c) (3) registered charity. Design and layout: Lampe-Farley.com

Information for the FOCUS should be submitted by mail to Editor, Decatur Focus, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, GA 30031, or by email to [email protected].

2 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 CITY News

Meet Decatur Fire Inspectors Holiday Solid Congratulations to Robert Waste and Solovey, Decatur’s new- Recycling est fire inspector. Did you know that Decatur has three Schedule inspectors? In addition to Christmas Holiday Solovey, Craig Dubose and Friday, Dec. 25, and Nate Dansby also serve as Monday, Dec. 28 inspectors. Regular service for Thursday, Dec. The City of Decatur per- Solovey Dubose Dansby 24, will be on Wednesday, Dec. 23 forms fire inspections on new construction, renova- Regular service for Friday, Dec. 25, tions, and existing businesses. The more compliant people are with the safety regulations, the will be on Thursday, Dec 24 fewer fires and tragedies occur. Fire inspectors protect life and property by enforcing city fire Regular service for Monday, Dec. codes, ordinances and regulations. They enforce regulations by reviewing ar- 28, will be on Tuesday, Dec. 29 chitectural drawings for proposed construction and site development, along Regular service for Tuesday, Dec. with issuing operations permits to include regulating special events and 29, will be on Wednesday, Dec. 30 activities where large crowds and hazardous conditions exist. Inspectors educate, prevent and mitigate incidents in their early stages of develop- New Year’s Holiday, ment, making our city safer. Friday, Jan. 1 Decatur’s fire inspectors are also responsible for administering fire Regular service for Thursday, safety programs and inspections. The programs are designed to meet the Dec. 31, and Friday, Jan. 1, responsibility of minimizing risk to life safety, ensuring proper storage will be on Thursday, Dec. 31 and handling of hazardous material and the elimination of fire code violations through education and code enforcement. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 18 Harlan, age 2, is one of Decatur Regular service for Monday will be HARLAN ON Fire Rescue’s biggest fans and on Tuesday, Jan. 19 HALLOWEEN showed it during Halloween. Regular service for Tuesday will be on Wednesday, Jan. 20

The complete solid waste and re- Summer Camp Registration Opens Jan. 2 cycling holiday schedule (through September 2021) is at decaturga. ummer Camp 2021 registration opens Jan. 2 at 9 a.m. online. Look for the Camp com/sanitation and in the 2020 Edition of the Playbook on the City of Decatur website on or after Dec. 10 to plan November Focus. and select your camps for Summer 2021.The city will use a new software system Scalled CommunityPass for camp registration in January 2021. Here’s how to create a new family profile on the platform: 1. Visit register.capturepoint.com/cityofdecatur and select “Create an Account.” Focus Combined 2. Add family members to the account in the My Account > Account Information area. for January and Ensure all campers have been entered. February 3. Complete the Summer Camp Information and Release Form before Jan. 2 at 9 a.m. The form is a prerequisite to registering for camp so completing it ahead of time will expe- City of Decatur will publish a dite your registration. combined January/February issue of the Focus, scheduled to arrive 4. Spend some time with the Camp Playbook and map out some first and second choices in mailboxes during the second for each camper in your household. Check out pages 10-11 for week-by-week camp op- week of January. The deadline tions, grades and ages. for submissions for the issue Questions about camp registration for 2021 or the new CommunityPass software? Con- is Dec. 10. Send information to tact [email protected]. [email protected].

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 3 CITY News

ICU Nurse Connects Neighbors During Pandemic

Decatur resident and ICU nurse Ashley • Parents get a few minutes of free child- Goldman Howle is keeping her neighbors care (or some social interaction with connected during the pandemic through other parents if they choose to join); and the creation of Mimosa Milers. On Fridays • Elderly neighbors come along to cheer at 4 p.m., Ashley rallies neighborhood teens everyone on, and reap the benefits of the to meet at the corner of Mimosa Place and strong community they built while their Mimosa Drive in Winnona Park and lead a own children were young. 60-minute outdoor physical activity for the The result: A burst of exercise, youth in the neighborhood. To maintain mental health, and joy dur- safety, masks, hand washing, and social dis- ing an otherwise so- tancing are required, and attendance is lim- bering year. ited to Ashley’s neighborhood circle. As participants surpass milestones, they earn charms with inspirational quotes on them – and build confidence. • Teens step away from their comput- ers and learn leadership skills; • Little kids get some exercise, dancing, music and fun;

Stop English Ivy from Killing Trees nglish ivy is a silent tree killer. It presents a real and immediate danger to your trees and poses a serious threat to our urban forests. With no natural enemies, English ivy is an aggressive, non-native invasive ivy that can topple trees and create a mono- Eculture on our urban forest floors by choking out all other flora. English ivy weakens trees by stealing sunlight, water and nutrients. It can add up to one ton of extra weight to tree limbs and trunks, and can act as a sail, causing trees to blow over in storms. Ivy produces fruit as it climbs trees, which birds eat and then spread the seeds into unaffected yards and healthy forests, thereby starting new ivy infestations. This and other exotic woody vines, such as wisteria and kudzu, eliminate native plants and reduce the available nourishment for birds, beneficial insects, and animals. Fall and winter are a great time to remove these invaders and plant native replacements, such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower, Crossvine, Partridgeberry, Wild Ginger and Christmas Fern. How Do You Remove Ivy From a Tree? 1. Wear gloves and protective eyewear and keep skin covered to prevent accidental contact with poison ivy or other irritants. 2. Using tools like crowbars, clippers and loppers, pry the vines off the tree. Try to do this without removing too much of the tree bark and focus on one section that circles the tree. 3. You don’t have to remove all of the vines; rather you just have to sever the roots from the vines above by cutting a two-foot “belt” around the tree. Once the vines above are com- pletely severed, they will die. 4. Pull back all of the vines at least four feet from the base of the tree as much as you can to prevent re-growth. 5. Educate others about the evils of English ivy! Remember, ivy can live for hundreds of years, and someday it will be out of your control – so it’s best to get rid of it now and pro- tect the flora that is meant to grow here. For more information on successful ivy eradication, follow @antiivyleague on Instagram.

4 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 CITY News

Decatur Holiday Events Virtual Tree Lighting Thursday, Dec. 10 • 7 p.m. AT Streeteries Join Little Shop of Stories and City of Decatur E C U R for a virtual tree lighting on Zoom at 7 p.m. D Expanded Grab some goodies and hot chocolate and Patios join your neighbors on Zoom at 6:30 p.m. for Pop-ups story time with Santa. The event is free, but Curbside registration is required. To register, visit visitde- FAB caturgeorgia.com/events. Storefronts Friday Open-Air Market NOVEMBER 1-DECEMBER 24 Shop shop and dine Deals locally outside E C AT U D R for the holidays, Earn $20 DEC. 4, 11, 18 gift cards decaturga.com/fabfriday AB to Decatur restaurants. F Get out of the house for keep your receipts! holiday merriment and safe and socially distanced good times! Wear your mask and join your neighbors for FAB Fridays. Shop and dine outside with some of Decatur’s favor- ite independent shops and restaurants at curbside store- fronts and parking lot pop-ups around the city and at the open-air market on the MARTA plaza. Free gift-wrapping at the Decatur Visitors Center tent on the plaza.

While out shopping, save your receipts! For every $200 you spend with local City of Decatur retailers through December 24, the Decatur Visitors Center will give you a $20 gift card to a local Decatur restaurant. (Limited to three cards per person.) Bring your receipts to the Visit Decatur tent on the square during any FAB Friday from 4-9 p.m.

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 5 CITY News

Better Together Advisory Board since been ratified by every member nation of the United Nations except the United States. On a number of important indica- Celebrate Human Rights Day tors of child well-being, our nation has a long way to go: according to UNICEF’s lat- and Dignity for All est Global Report Card on child well-being in industrialized nations, the United States ecember 10 is Human Rights Day, marking the day of the ranks 36th out of 38 nations. adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the In our world today, establishing and pro- United Nations in 1948. Drafted by a committee led by Elea- tecting basic human rights is critical to ad- vancing humanity, to securing justice for all, Dnor Roosevelt in the shadows of World War II, the Declaration and to facing the challenges of our times. On passed with a vote of 48 to 0 (with eight abstentions). Human Rights Day, we celebrate these rights, which are the building blocks of coopera- Far from being a document that was wide- in our world, this tion, compromise and the common good. ly adopted and then forgotten on a dusty does not mean In this season of giving, the Better Togeth- shelf, the Universal Declaration of Human that the Declara- er Advisory Board encourages us all to spend Rights has influenced nations, movements, tion has no force. time learning with our families about human and other important human rights docu- Indeed, it has rights, and the importance of these rights to ments through the years, and has been part been a catalyst protect the dignity of every human being. of an ongoing global conversation about the for constitutions Enjoy these selections chosen by Little Shop realization of rights across the world. and rights-based of Stories at 133A E. Court Square. The text of Article I begins with words that movements echo our own Declaration of Independence: across the globe. I Have the Right To Be a Child “All human beings are born and equal in The Convention on the Rights of the Child by Alain Serres dignity and rights.” Among the rights that (CRC) is the most widely ratified human With a very simple text accompanied by vi- were declared in this document as inherent rights treaty in history, translating the rights brant illustrations a young narrator describes in the human being – as opposed to rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration into what it means to be a child with rights: from bestowed by kings or queens or presidents a commitment to protect the rights of all the right to food, water and shelter, to the or parliaments – are: life, liberty and security children. The CRC has been used to improve right to go to school, to the right to be free of person; the right to being equal before the child well-being all over the world. Before from violence, to the right to breathe clean law without any discrimination; the right to the onset of the current pandemic, over the air, and much more. The book emphasizes freedom of movement within the borders past three decades, education enrollment that these rights belong to every child on of each state; the right to leave any country, rates for all children have seen a steady in- the planet, whether they are black or white, including one’s own; the right to seek asylum crease across the world, the under-5 child small or big, rich or poor, born here or in another country; the right to a nationality; mortality rate has seen a remarkable de- somewhere else. It also makes evident that and many more. crease, and hundreds of millions more chil- knowing and talking about these rights are Although each of these established rights dren and families have access to clean water. the first steps toward making sure that they is violated regularly in one place or another Originally ratified in 1989, the CRC has are respected. (Ages 4-7)

6 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 CITY News

Free?: Stories About Human Rights by Amnesty International DHS Grad Releases Followup to A boy who thinks that school is “slavery” learns the true meaning of the word when Vegas-based Bestseller he stumbles on a secret child-labor fac- Matthew O’Brien, journalist, social worker and Decatur High School tory. A Palestinian boy, mute from trauma, graduate, has announced the release of his latest book, Dark Days, releases kites over a wall to a hilltop settle- Bright Nights: Surviving the Las Vegas Storm Drains, the follow-up to ment, each bearing a message of peace. the bestselling Beneath the Neon. This inspiring, engaging anthology gathers The book shares stories of Sin City’s most marginalized people, an international roster of authors to ex- from bottoming out in the underground flood channels to mending plore such themes as asylum, law, educa- relationships with family and adjusting to jobs, housing, and sobriety. tion, and faith – from a riveting tale of an These redemption stories cast light on a rarely seen side of Vegas and attempt to find drinking water after Hur- offer a portrait of homelessness and recovery in America. Matthew O’Brien ricane Katrina; to a chilling look at a future where microchips track every citizen’s every move; to a hilarious police inter- rogation involving the London Tower, the Crown Jewels, and a Ghanaian boy with a passion for playing marbles. (Ages 10+) The New Human Rights Movement: Reinventing the Economy to End Oppression by Peter Joseph In our interconnected world, self-interest and social-interest are rapidly becom- ing indistinguishable. If current negative trajectories remain, including growing cli- mate destabilization, biodiversity loss, and economic inequality, an impending future of ecological collapse and societal destabi- lization will make “personal success” vir- tually meaningless. Yet our broken social The stories of Ricky Lee (left) and Ande are included in O’Brien’s new book. system incentivizes behavior that will only make our problems worse. In this book, Peter Joseph, founder of the world’s largest grassroots social movement – The Zeitgeist Movement – draws from economics, histo- ry, philosophy, and modern public-health Music Together of Decatur to Host research to present a bold case for rethink- Benefit Concert for Our House ing activism in the 21st century. Dec. 11 • 5 p.m. • via Zoom Universal Declaration of Human Join Music Together of Decatur and Uncle Gerry as they sing, Rights dance, and jam together via Zoom. Gerry Dignan, also known by Eleanor Roosevelt, et al as Uncle Gerry, has been traveling the world virtually, bringing In 1948, Eleanor Roosevelt served as communities together with singing, dancing, and instrument- chairwoman of the United Nations com- playing since the start of the pandemic and his in-person con- mittee to create this declaration of moral certs were put on hold. conscience, now used by Amnesty Inter- Reserve your spot at musictogetherofdecatur.com/special- national as their founding document. This events-in-decatur-ga.html. All proceeds from this event will go hardcover edition contains the interna- to support Our House. tional document in six languages: English, Our House’s interrelated programs, consisting of Housing Ser- Spanish, French, Chinese, Russian, and vices, Family Services, Early Childhood Education, and Employ- Arabic. ment Training Services, address the root causes of homelessness and ensure that every family that leaves Our House has the tools needed to achieve lasting self-sufficiency. DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 7 CITY News

A Message from Commissioner Lesa Mayer

t is difficult and humbling to summarize 2020 of five or more residential units to set aside at and do it justice. It has been a year filled with least 10 percent of those units as affordable. It is the first of many policy changes I will work challenges, frustration, loss without closure, ill- for to help bridge the equity gap in housing ness and fear. But, 2020 may be one of the most in Decatur and is an example of our actions I aligning with our values. The small business significantly pivotal years of our lifetime. and non-profit grant programs implemented this year provide another example, and I am When I was sworn in as Commissioner in I am proud of the grateful to the city staff for their tireless work January, my primary focus was implement- equity work we have done including the on those efforts. ing meaningful policy change to improve Speaker Series, supporting the Commemo- In addition to the policy work, I was able housing affordability in Decatur. I did not rating King team of DHS, the work of all of to connect with this community in ways I expect a public health crisis and the expo- the boards and coalitions within the city and never expected. sure of traumatic, blatant racial inequities to the approval of funding to include our Public I am grateful for the opportunity to stand shift our collective priorities so swiftly. Works staff as essential workers in pandemic with you at rallies and marches where you I am proud we bravely implemented a hazard pay while still knowing that there is expressed both outrage at current racial mask ordinance, valuing the health and much more work left to do. injustice and hope for future change, and as safety of residents over political posturing The shift in priorities did not halt the work we watched in awe and celebration as the and threats. to improve housing affordability in Decatur. Confederate obelisk was removed from our I was honored to coordinate our Black The Commission’s approval of the Mandatory welcoming square. Lives Matter mural painting, bringing our Inclusionary Housing ordinance represents I have bonded with you over the challeng- community together in a symbolic act with the most significant policy achievement for es of virtual school while working remotely deep meaning. me this year. It requires any new development and watched us demonstrate a strengthened resilience and creativity from which we con- tinue to draw as we navigate the temporary “new normal.” Through all of the challenges, we have experienced a deeper connection with our families, our neighbors and our community. We have supported our local businesses through lean and uncertain times, dropped warm meals on the porches of neighbors, demonstrated countless acts of kindness and become more involved than ever in the processes that lead to policies in our govern- ment. All of these are bright lights in, for what has been for many, a dim year. It is impossible to ignore the hardships of 2020 but I leave it with the optimism and ex- citement I experienced coming in. Let us car- ry all the lessons learned this year to inspire an even better, more inclusive, more equitable Decatur. Have a happy and safe holiday sea- son and thank you for allowing me to serve you as one of your Commissioners.

– Lesa Mayer Commissioner, District 2

8 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 DBA News

Hometown Heroes! Coming soon to a computer near you! Save the Date: DBA Holiday Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021 Meeting Tuesday, Dec. 1 5:30 p.m. The Decatur Business Association’s annual holiday meeting will go virtual this year. During the meeting, the Decatur City Commission will present the annual Hometown Heroes awards, the Better Together Advisory Board will announce Check City of Decatur and the second annual Welcoming Business Award recipients, Decatur Business Association and the DBA will announce officers for 2021. To register, visit social media for details decaturdba.com.

BUSINESS & NONPROFIT News

DeKalb History Center Lunch & Learn: Artist Athos Menaboni Tuesday, Dec. 8 • noon-1 p.m. Grab your lunch and tune into the DeKalb History Center’s next Lunch and Learn, featuring Russell Clayton. He will discuss the life and artwork of his long-time friend Athos Menaboni, who was born in Italy in 1895 and became well known in Georgia from the 1930s on. Often compared to the genius of John James Audubon, Me- naboni painted more than 150 species of birds in his lifetime and rendered countless botanicals, fantasies, landscapes, and seascapes. He used a multitude of mediums, including glass, silk, wood, and even eggshells. You can find one of his pieces, a massive eggshell mural, inside the Brick Store Pub. Russell Clayton is a retired educator from Marietta, Georgia, and was a personal friend of Sara and Athos Menaboni. He be- came acquainted with the Menabonis through his interest in the history of the Coca-Cola Company, and the company’s long-time leader, Robert W. Woodruff. Menaboni was Woodruff’s favorite artist. Clayton met Sara and Athos in 1987 and soon became an Motion and Emotion: the World of avid collector of all things associated with Menaboni. This Lunch & Learn will take place online via Zoom. Tickets Galina Herndon Opens at Aimée are free for members, $5 for nonmembers, and can be purchased Join Aimée Jewelry and Fine Art Gallery for a solo exhibition featur- at dekalb-history-center.square.site/. The Zoom link will be sent ing a unique collection of paintings by Russian artist Galina Hern- out via email to members and those who purchase tickets on the don. The exhibit opens Dec. 3, 5-8 p.m., and runs through Feb. 4. day of the event.

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 9

BUSINESS & NONPROFIT News

Virtual Holiday One Love, One Heart Virtual 5K for CdLS Marketplace Jan. 8-10 All are welcome at the annual One Love, One Heart Virtual 5K for CdLS for family fun and + Café community support. Event organizers Hannah Pomfret and Kira Czech will host the event, which is in honor of Maya Pomfret, who has Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), a genetic The 29th annual Holiday Marketplace + disorder that causes a variety of physical, cognitive and medical challenges. Café, hosted at Clairemont Elementary Maya attended College Heights Elementary and currently attends Decatur High School. School, will take place virtually beginning Hannah, Maya’s sister, and Kira, a close family friend, are 10th graders at Decatur High School, at 8 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 27, until 5 p.m. on who decided to bring back the 5K as part of their sophomore personal project. Friday, Dec 11. Links to artists’ sites will be Since 2005, the 5K event has raised much-needed funds to help people with CdLS live bet- available at Clairemontpta.org for shopping ter, fuller lives. Inspired by children affected by CdLS, local families and friends have made the online. A description of the shop and own- event an annual success. ers, along with photos of their crafts will be All pre-registered runners will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt. Gift card awards will be given available to preview. to the winners in various categories. For more information and registration, visit sites.google. Merchants will ship purchased items com/csdecatur.net/oneloveoneheartvirtual5k. where possible. A special pick-up day for lo- cal customers will be available at the school on Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-noon. Proceeds will ben- efit Clairemont Elementary School’s educa- tional programs. For more information, visit DecaturHolidayMarketplace.com.

Little Shop of Stories Holiday Shopping Although Little Shop of Stories is closed for browsing, they want to help you find the perfect gifts this holiday season. Gift selec- tions range from custom activity boxes and family-friendly games to loads of stocking stuffers. Visit littleshopofstories.square.site for book needs and gift ideas. The site also features all of Little Shop’s non-book ideas, including their traditional holiday events like Hanukkah and Gingerbread Story Times and Make Your Own Ornament. Contact 404-373-6300 or visit littleshop- ofstories.indielite.org to schedule a contact- free appointment with a bookseller.

10 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 BUSINESS & NONPROFIT News

Beecatur Introduces Young Readers to the World of Bees ee City USA-Decatur, GA (“Beecatur”) has published The A BEE C Book, an alphabet book designed to intro- duce young readers to a variety of bees found in Decatur. Author and illustrator BThrough rhyming text and whimsical illustrations, read- Peter Helfrich ers can learn about bumble bees, mason bees, sweat bees, honey bees and more. The A BEE C Book was written and illustrated by bee enthusiast and graphic designer Peter Helfrich, who also chairs the Beecatur committee. According to Helfrich, the project is one he has long wanted to complete. Cancel- lations of most of the group’s other activities due to the Coronavirus pandemic allowed work on the book to finally move forward. The 40-page, full-color, softcover book is available for purchase for $12.99. Proceeds from the book sup- port Beecatur’s ongoing work creating and maintaining sustainable pollinator habitats in Decatur, and educating the public about pollinators. The A BEE C Book is avail- able for online purchase at Beecatur’s website, beecaturga. com/abc. Beecatur also offers other gifts for holiday giving, including handmade mason bee houses, the native plant “Gifts That Grow!” program, and Decatur Pollinator Pledge yard signs. Plumb Works: Giving Back DEF Announces Five New and Making a Difference REACH Georgia Scholars After a rigorous application process, five eighth grade stu- For more than 30 years Plumb Works has had a tradition of helping those in dents from Renfroe Middle School have been chosen to need. In Decatur and the surrounding area, Plumb Works participates in fun- participate in REACH Georgia, a mentoring program estab- draising efforts for schools and organizations supporting educational institu- lished by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. tions, including Decatur Education Foundation. The program provides guidance and support to students In addition, Plumb Works has worked with Kirkwood Cares, a nonprofit who demonstrate true academic promise. This year’s REACH assisting Kirkwood residents in need. The company has provided deeply dis- scholars are Hawa Abshiro, Jada Ponder, Javonte Ponder, counted services to those receiving aid from the organization. They also have Keith Simon, Timaya Varner. a charitable relationship with Amplify My Community, a nonprofit that orga- The Decatur Education Foundation (DEF) serves as the nizes music events to help raise funds for other nonprofits working to relieve funding partner for the program and oversees the mentor- poverty and homelessness at the local level. ing component, which matches local community volunteers According to Plumb Works owner and President Jerome Sabol, the com- with each student. The mentors help the students navigate pany allows its staff to play a part in philanthropy, too. When providing staff through high school and prepare for college. bonuses, Plumb Works often makes a donation to a charity of each employee’s The students’ selection was celebrated via Zoom on choice. For example, Plumb Works recently made a donation in an employee’s Wednesday, Dec. 2, with RMS principal Greg Wiseman, name to Ahimsa House, an organization dedicated to helping the human and some RMS teachers, the students’ families, and Rob Townley animal victims of domestic violence reach safety together. of Townley Kenton, who sponsors the program. The stu- In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, with pink being dents will join the other 10 REACH scholars currently in the the official color, Sabol ordered pink shirts for employees to wear for the oc- program. Upon program completion, REACH mentees can casion. Plumb Works also made a company donation to the virtual Winship receive college scholarships to Georgia schools – up to $30K. Win the Fight 5K road race, which benefits the Winship Cancer Institute of To learn more about DEF’s two mentoring programs, visit Emory University. decatureducationfoundation.org/mentoring.

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 11 THE CITY ACTIVE LIVING • Purchased the Samuel L. Jones Boys and Girls Club prop- • Decatur Active Living (DAL) has erty adjacent to Oakhurst Park. worked to keep the commu- • Saved $7 million with bond refinancing. nity active. They created a Vir- tual Recreation Center, a Mobile • Partnered with the Atlanta Dream Center for efforts to as- Recreation Center, and offered sist the homeless population. virtual classes as well as free tai • Completed protected bike lanes and downtown cycle chi and yoga, and youth classes track along Commerce Drive. on the square. The tennis courts • Supported a team of Decatur High School students work- and outdoor pools success- ing to place a historical marker in Decatur recognizing fully opened with no reported Martin Luther King Jr.’s misdemeanor arrest and subse- cases of COVID-19, and the play- quent sentencing to a DeKalb County chain gang. grounds and skate park reopened in October. DAL also offered a • The City of Decatur became a general member of National walk and a bike challenge. Main Street in August. In October, two Decatur businesses were selected to receive the organization’s HartBeat of Mainstreet grant in the first round of offerings and were the only businesses in Georgia to receive the grant. A sec- ond round of applications has opened, and as many as seven businesses have applied. Fingers crossed that more of our businesses will be selected to receive the grant.

SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS • Launched a small business assistance program using federall CARES Act funds. • The Decatur City Commission established a nonprofit grant program using federal CARES Act funds to pro- vide assistance to local nonprofit organizations for • Decatur Active Living partnered with the Decatur Library needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of to place three different StoryWalks in Glenlake Park, which $300,000 in funding is available. children and their families were able to enjoy. They also partnered with Chick-fil-A to serve 60 sandwiches a day to youth at Ebster Recreation Center during the month of July. A partnership with Decatur Housing Authority sup- plied youth in the community with school supplies. FAB • Decatur Active Living won three awards from the Georgia Recreation FRIDAYS and Parks Association: Sara Holmes The city’s Department won the prestigious Mike Daniel of Community and Award, Lee Goldsmith won Volunteer Economic Develop- of the Year, and the department won a ment launched FAB media award for beactivedecatur.com. Fridays, an outdoor • Seniors are staying active with walks COVID-safe shopping and virtual classes, as well as main- Sarah Holmes and dining experience taining their plots at Scott Garden. A for the community to partnership with Kaiser Permanente also offered seniors a come out to shop, eat virtual bingo game. and enjoy.

12 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 EQUITY

• The Better Together Advisory Board and the City of Decatur hosted four • The city joined the Government Alliance speakers as part of an Anti-Racism Speaker Series, which is designed to on Race and Equity (GARE), a national generate awareness of equity concerns in the city and to hold the city and network of government working to achieve community accountable for meeting established goals and implementing racial equity and advance opportunities for policies that ensure an inclusive, equitable and just city. all. The Decatur City Commission pledged The Speaker Series seeks to mine the knowledge and wisdom of $50,000 in the current year’s city budget to numerous thought leaders to challenge and inspire our community to take fund community anti-racist education and actionable steps to instill anti-racism throughout our norms and practices. training.

• The city, in partnership with the Decatur Arts Alliance and MARTA Artbound, supported Black artists with public art installations at all three MARTA stations and worked with community members on a Black Lives Matter art installation on North McDonough Street.

EQUITY TEAM In January, City Manager Andrea Arnold To do this, the team will: created a cross-departmental Employee 1. Educate employees about the Better Together Community Action Equity Team. The team’s goal is to create an Plan and address goals that are focused on the city organization. environment of equity and inclusion where 2. Review internal structures, processes, policies and outcomes everyone in the organization is treated through an equity lens. fairly, has equitable opportunities and out- comes, and truly feels welcome and valued. 3. Recommend activities, training and professional development that Through education about systemic racism will support and promote equity, inclusion and engagement within and bias a plan will be developed to address all departments and throughout the organization. barriers to equity and inclusion within the 4. Serve as a resource for all City of Decatur employees. organization

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 13 • The City of Decatur partnered with Trees Atlanta to establish a front yard tree program. Residents pay a $25 application fee and Trees Atlanta will POLICE plant a tree in their front yard, and maintain the tree for two years. Home- • The Decatur Police Department became owners can choose from a list of trees suitable for our area. fully staffed for the first time in more • The City of Decatur received the inaugural Visionary City Award presented than 20 years. by Georgia Trend magazine and GMA during the association’s Cities United • In January 2020, the Police Department Summit in Atlanta in January. Decatur was recognized for its Better To- announced these promotions: Jennifer gether initiative, which brought together more than 800 residents, who Ross to captain, Richard Phillips to lieu- contributed more than 1,300 hours to the yearlong vi- tenant, Michael Johns to sergeant, Eric sioning and outreach project aimed at creating a more Jackson to sergeant, Cassandra Bradley diverse and welcoming city. to Communications Team leader, and • Communications Manager/PIO Renae Madison was Jessica Hughes to Communications recognized by the Public Relations Society of America Team leader. (PRSA) Georgia Chapter as a “40 Under 40” award re- • Captain Billy Woodruff graduated from cipient. Now in its second year, the 40 Under 40 awards the University of Louisville’s Southern program honors rising stars who excel in public rela- Police Institute’s Administrative Officers tions, marketing, advertising and/or social media roles, Course and was elected treasurer of the while also giving back to their industry and community. Renae Madison class by his peers. Captain Woodruff also made the Dean’s List for his academic accomplishments while attending the Decatur Joins AARP Network of rigorous course. Age-Friendly States and Communities • The Police Department reinstituted its Quality of Life Enforcement Initiative on In August, the City of Decatur joined the AARP Age-Friendly States and the Decatur square during the summer Communities Network. This will allow the Lifelong Community Advisory and fall. Board to continue to fulfill goals of the 2010 Strategic Plan, primarily to as- sure our city is a safe, healthy and inviting community for all ages. According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 10-county Atlanta Region Popu- y SAf E y SAfE Call STA 911 Police STA inand an emergency, help prevent or crime lation Age Breakdown was 16 percent for those 60+ in 2015. In 2030,and help prevent it crimeis if you believe you are Call 911 • Be aware of what is goingPolice on around you. in an emergency, or witnessing any crime. • Be aware of what is going on around you. • Trust your instincts and act if a situation does not if you believe you are estimated to grow to 24 percent of the population. • Trust your instincts and act if a situation does not feel right. witnessing any crime. Police feel right. • Lock the doors and windows of your home and WHAT Call• Lock the doors 911 and windows of your home and your vehicles. in anyour emergency, vehicles. or • Secure your valuables out of sight. IS SUSPICIOUS? The Age-Friendly process includes conducting ya ScommunityAfE if •you needsSecure believe your valuables you are outas of sight.- • Make your home appear occupied, even when STA witnessing• Make your home any appear crime. occupied, even when you WHATare away. WHAT and help prevent crime you are away. • Use lighting around your home and trim sessment; developing an action and evaluation plan based on the• Use lighting assess around your home and- trim overgrownIS foliage SUSPICIOUS? to reduce potential hiding IS SUSPICIOUS? • Be aware of what is going on around you. overgrown foliage to reduce potential hiding places. • Trust your instincts and act if a situation does not places. • Submit an “Out of Town House Check” through feel right. • Submit an “Out of Town House Check” through the city’s SeeClickFix app, and Decatur officers will ment results; implementing the work and goals• Lock ofthe doors theand windows ofplan; your home and andthe repeatingcity’s SeeClickFix app, and Decatur officers will periodically check on your home. your vehicles. periodically check on your home. • Avoid having packages delivered to your home • Secure your valuables out of sight. • Avoid having packages delivered to your home while you’re away — have them delivered to your the process in order to have continuous improvement.• Make your home appear occupied, even when while you’re away — have them delivered to your office instead. you are away. office instead. • Get to know your neighbors so that you can • Use lighting around your home and trim • Get to know your neighbors so that you can look out for each other in a look out for each other in a responsible way overgrown foliage to reduce potential hiding . places. responsible way. DeCATUr POLiCe • Submit an “Out of Town House Check” through DeCATUr POLiCe the city’s SeeClickFix app, and Decatur officers will Non-Emergency Number periodically check on your home. Non-Emergency Number • Avoid having packages delivered to your home 404-373-6551 while you’re away — have them delivered to your Use this number to report something that you 404-373-6551 office instead. do not feel constitutes an emergency. These Use this number to report something that you • Get to know your neighbors so that you can DeCATUr POLiCe calls are also answered in the 911 Center. do not feel constitutes an emergency. These look out for each. other in a Non-Emergency Number calls are also answered in the 911 Center. responsible way 404-373-6551 Use this number to report something that you WHEN do not feel constitutes an emergency. These Police 420 West Trinity Place DO I CALL calls are also answered in the 911 Center. Decatur, GA 30030 Police WHENOpen 24 Hours THE POLICE? 404-373-6551DO I CALL 420 West Trinity Place Decatur, GA 30030 WHEN Police Open 24 Hours DO I CALL 420 West Trinity Place THE POLICE? 404-373-6551 Decatur, GA 30030 Open 24 Hours THE POLICE? 404-373-6551

Decatur partnered with DECATUR PD SHARES Living Walls and the Decatur WHAT IS SUSPICIOUS? Arts Alliance for The “What is Suspicious” brochure, this new mural which was created in 2018, at the railway was adapted by the Dunwoody underpass where Police Department to educate its Columbia Drive community on suspicious behavior. and East College The brochure was also printed in Avenue intersect. the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police monthly publication.

14 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 CITY News DECATUR STRONG 2020

Decatur Business Association Over the past nine months, the Decatur Business Association has worked to make adjustments and support Decatur small businesses in the best way possible during the pandemic. In the spring they hosted the Decatur DeCanTour series that invited participants to sip and shop from home and enjoy cocktail classes with local bartenders, while also highlighting several local retailers. Recently, DBA launched “60 Second Props,” a so- Reese Thompson Sanders cial media campaign spotlighting local business owners and introducing them to the community. • Officers Kanice Reese, Katherine Thomp- To continue supporting members, DBA moved their monthly network- son, Joshua Sanders, and Estaffon McCall ing meetings online. Each meeting included a virtual cocktail demonstra- (pictured below with Deputy Chief Scott tion and updates from City Commissioners. The meetings also offered Richardson and Chief Mike Booker) gradu- legal updates for small businesses in the time of COVID-19 and tips from ated from the Georgia Piedmont Technical a social media expert on how to best utilize social media for your small Law Enforcement Academy. business. • The police department worked collabora- The DBA thanks all of their members and sponsors who have supported tively with other law enforcement agencies them through this challenging time, and plans to continue to support the in DeKalb County to address protests and business community as well. demonstrations that occurred around ra- cial equality. There were no incidents of vi- olence and the department received praise Decatur-Area Emergency Assistance Ministry (DEAM) for how it responded to the incidents. Closed for only a week, DEAM reopened ready to deal with the new reality • The Police Department continues to work and safely maintain their mission to serve neighbors in need. The pandem- with state and local law enforcement ic has required strict health procedures and increased the need for food agencies to address street racing. The and financial support. intelligence gathering and collaboration Large increases in donations from places of worship and individuals among agencies has been beneficial in ad- since March have enabled DEAM to offer $750 per household per year for dressing this illegal activity. utilities rather than the previous $250 per year; groceries once a week rather than once a month; and support for the homeless once a week • The Police Department embraced the use rather than twice a month. of virtual technology to conduct monthly As COVID-19 wreaks financial havoc on neighbors, DEAM strives to meet crime meetings. The meetings allow the growing needs and keep workers and clients safe. To maintain social dis- supervisors opportunities to discuss the tancing, financial assistance is provided over the phone and grocery orders crime that has occurred, what they did to are distributed outside the office. A new 10-ft x 12-ft awning protects cli- address it, and what steps will be taken to ents, volunteers and food orders. The two office managers now work on address anticipated crime. separate days and six stalwart volunteers distribute prepackaged groceries twice a week. Masks are given to those who come without one. Strategic procedural changes and community generosity have kept DEAM a resource in these dire months.

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 15 DECATUR STRONG 2020

Friends of Decatur Cemetery While the pandemic shut down the customary Second Sun- day Strolls sponsored by Friends of Decatur Cemetery (FODC), 2020 was still a productive year for the all-volunteer group that works with the city to maintain the historic cemetery and educate the citizens about its importance to the community.

• Walkers, joggers, and small family groups were encouraged to respectfully enjoy Decatur’s largest greenspace during a time of isolation and social distancing.

• The Tuesday morning Gardening Among the Graves vol- unteers continued to clear out invasive weeds and uncover the granite walkways in the Old Section.

• New signage along Commerce Drive and at the Bell Street entrance was installed in October – a cooperative effort between the City of Decatur and the Friends of Decatur Cemetery. • Although the traditional Veterans Day Commemoration had to be scaled back, a socially distanced cooperative ser- vice between the Harold Byrd Post No. 66 American Legion Auxiliary and FODC was held on Nov. 11, as customary. In compliance with city pandemic protocols, flags were posted at the cemetery entrances rather than on individual graves as in past years.

• A new storyboard sign detailing the history of the historic African-American burial grounds was placed near Section Six. In conjunction, volunteers worked to clean the grave- stones nearby.

For more information about Friends of Decatur Cemetery, visit legacydecatur.com/friends-of-decatur-cemetery.

Commerce Drive Entrance Church Street Entrance

16 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 DECATUR STRONG 2020 COMMUNTY Beacon Hill Black Alliance Amplify My Community Gives for Human Rights $36,500 to Charities in 2020 The Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights The nonprofit organization Amplify My Community provided $36,500 empowers, advocates, educates, and organizes to three community-based nonprofits addressing issues surrounding people of African descent affected by systemic homelessness and poverty. The 2020 gifts were made possible by Am- racism and oppression on issues of equity in edu- plify’s sponsors and supporters, who helped raise funds despite cancel- cation, housing, and the legal system in the city of ations of the organization’s largest 2020 events due to COVID-19. The Decatur and surrounding communities. To learn gift recipients are: more, visit beaconhillblackalliance.org • $30,000 to Decatur Cooperative Ministry • Facilitated the commemoration of Indigenous • $5,000 to Family Connections-Community in Schools of Athens Peoples’ Day and protested the cannon on • $1,500 to Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry Decatur square. The gift to Decatur Cooperative Ministry reflects the generosity of Amplify’s sponsors and the community, many of whom declined to • Supported the development of the first-ever accept ticket refunds for the canceled Amplify Decatur Music Festival. Decatur High School Black Student Union. With this gift, Amplify has directed more than $265,000 to Decatur Co- • Hosts monthly Student Leadership Series operative Ministry. intended to inspire all high school students to Amplify is especially grateful for the continued support of its corpo- aspire to the greatest heights possible. Each rate sponsors, including Lenz, Eddie’s Attic, Leafmore Group, Decatur session features a career speaker and focuses Package Store, and Iris and Bruce Feinberg on leadership skills. Additional supporters include Oakhurst Realty Partners, Natalie Greg- • Distributed books and candy to K-5 students ory and Co., Plumb Works, Verisail Partners, and Dynamo Swim Club. who reside at Trinity Walk and DHA during During the pandemic, Amplify has focused on socially distant music Halloween. events, including its streaming series and the upcoming Drive-By Flat- bed Truck Concert featuring Kevn Kinney of Drivin N Cryin. • Co-sponsored ice cream and multicultural For more information on upcoming events and to donate to Amplify books giveaway in September. My Community, visit AmplifyMyCommunity.org. • Assisted with creating the Black Lives Matter street mural in front of Decatur High School. • Promoted Take 12 – two minutes to register to vote and 10 minutes to complete the 2020 census. Global Growers In May, Global Growers Network Beacon Hill launched its online Alliance Farm Stand that advocated for

Hector Amador Hector allows for safe, no- the removal of contact ordering and the Confederate pickup. A pivot from monument on their past communi- the square. ty-supported agrict- ulture (CSA) program and selling produce at Freedom’s Farm- ers Market, the Farm Stand has been a success. The produce sold is grown at the Umurima Wa Burundi Farm, located in East Decatur Station. With the support of community members, returning Farm Share customers, and new faces, GGN has been able to sell more than 2,000 pounds of produce with at least 75 percent of revenue going directly Church Street Entrance back to the growers. To learn more about GGN, visit globalgrowers.org.

DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 17 DECATUR STRONG 2020

Better Living Together

The mission of Better Living Together is to create a co-housing community where people with and without developmental disabilities live and thrive together. Before the pandemic, the group held monthly potlucks that brought together seniors, young adults experiencing disability and others with an interest in living in an inclu- sive community. The gatherings provided opportunities to develop deeper relationships with each other and foster new friendships. Throughout the first half of the year, founders Tim and Beate Sass attended a series of workshops for mission-driven organizations that want to create built en- vironments that promote sustainability and catalyze community impact. Once it was realized that a return to “normal” wasn’t coming soon, they adapted and hosted virtual meetings in the second half of the year. These included a presentation on sup- ported employment and another from Georgia Options, which supports individu- als experiencing disability to live indepen- dently in their communities. While it has been a challenging year, the group looks forward to broadening con- nections with the greater Decatur com- munity and moving ahead in the new year. For more information, visit betterlivingto- gether.org.

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18 | Decatur Focus • DECEMBER 2020 DECATUR STRONG 2020

Woodlands Garden The greenspace at Woodlands Garden has continued to thrive with many exciting accomplishments this year. Julia Bryant was hired as the garden manager of the eight-acre urban sanctuary. She has successfully organized weekly vol- unteer projects with new safety protocols in place to keep volunteers engaged (and masked!). Woodlands hosted a socially distanced board retreat led by consultants with Purpose Possible and will produce a strategic plan to help guide the organization. We welcomed four diverse professionals – Terrence Burroughs, Anna Dunn Tabke, Holly Fletcher, and Phil Polk – to the garden’s board of directors. Volunteers organized a fall plant sale featuring plants do- nated from local gardeners and a one-way route for the plant buying experience. The capital construction project, includ- ing visitor center updates, is complete and the garden will be open to the public before the end of the year.

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DECEMBER 2020 • Decatur Focus | 19 BUSINESS & NONPROFIT News DECATUR STRONG 2020

Glennwood Estates Neighborhood Community During this challenging time of COVID-19 the Glennwood Es- Upcoming events to finish out the year include the neigh- tates neighborhood has united in many community building borhood’s annual collective participation in Decatur’s Season activities, reinforcing its already strong bonds of generosity, of Giving, coordinated by neighbor Mindy Simon. kindness and humor, including: April’s Art-in-the-Yard Stroll, These events and many other random acts of kindness and followed by May’s graduating senior driving parade, June’s generosity (despite COVID-19) exemplify the strength and Emancipation Proclamation reading, an early October work connectedness of the community. day in the Glenn Creek Nature Preserve, and a scout-led retirement ceremony of the Triangle’s American flag on the Saturday before Veteran’s Day, coordinated by scout leader and neighbor Carroll Knabe. For Halloween, the Glennwood Estates neighborhood ral- lied together to celebrate in four ways: 1. A neighborhood yard decoration contest with certificates designed by DHS neighbor Leah C. 2. Jack-o-lantern illumination nights. 3. Trick-or-treat “opt-out” signs designed by DHS neighbor Orion Buckley. 4. A contactless treat tossing drive-by parade on Halloween, the brainchild of neighbor Molly Evans.

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DECATURit’s a DateEDUCATION to FOUNDATION Stay up late! Makingll Decatur Connections residents, and everybody to else, Help too, are invited Fulfill Community Need to walk in the Decatur Lantern Parade on the evening of The biggestFriday, win May for the15. ThisDecatur is one Education of those “the-more-the-merrier” Foundationevents, was soseeing plan now the tocommunity participate and come be a part of helping togetherA to support students and families dur- to make this lantern parade memorable. ingMake COVID-19. your own Community lantern at home contributions or have providedcome to a lantern-makingsupplemental workshopfood to 100 families, and havewhere allowed supplies andworking guidance parents are provid to keep- their jobs. ed.DEF Find currently out where has and 34 when Lighten by visiting the Load do- norsdecaturlanternparade.com. giving weekly or monthly to support the responseTo participate, to food line insecurity. up at Color In Wheel addition, they haveStudio been at 508 able E. Howard to support Ave. after 30 kids 8 p.m. with childcare grants.The parade DEF stepshas alsooff at helped 9 p.m. led the by Black The Parents Al- lianceBlack Sheep establish Marching a learning Ensemble pod and so pa students- have arade place guru to Chantelle do virtual Rytter. learning. The parade willDEF wend has its worked way to the with community other community or- ganizationsbandstand in frontto establish of the Old the Court Decatur- Cares Co- alition,house on a the“collective square. impact organization” that meetsThe viaparade Zoom is sponsored to share byresources Color and com- municateWheel Studio, community Decatur Arts needs. Alliance, To see the coalition list,Decatur visit Educationdecatureducationfoundation.org. Foundation, and the Decatur Development Authority.

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