231 Sycamore St.

We Have A New Blog!

2010-08-02T16:39:00.003-04:00

Thanks for visiting 231 Sycamore Street. The Active Living Department is moving forward, and all new posts will be on www.beactivedecatur.com. We will keep you updated on Active Living news as well as programs on staying fit.

KP Walk/Run Kick-Off Monday Night on the Square!

2010-07-22T16:22:00.002-04:00

Join Team Decatur for the KP Kick Off Event Monday, July 26

2010-07-21T15:31:00.006-04:00

Join Team Decatur for the KP Kick-off event on the Square Monday, July 26 from 6 until 8 pm. World-class runner and former Olympian Jeff Galloway will be sharing fitness and running tips. Visit with local businesses including Decatur Boxing Club, Big Peach Running, FleetFeet Decatur, One Step At A Time, Phidippides, DeKalb Jazzercize, Kick in the Fit and more.

Singer songwriter Morgan Rowe will be entertaining the crowd as well!

Enter a drawing for prizes and gift certificates from local businesses.

See you on the Square, and remember to "Be Active Decatur"!!

Fleet Feet Decatur Celebrates 2 Years With Fun, Free Activities

2010-07-12T15:46:00.006-04:00

Fleet Feet Sports Decatur will celebrate its second anniversary this weekend, July 17-18, and invites the entire community to join in the celebration. They’re offering free activities and sales to mark this milestone. Owned and operated by Decatur residents, the store specializes in running and walking shoes, apparel and accessories.

From owners Clay and Karen Scarborough: “We've had such a wonderful time serving you and being a part of the Decatur community, and we hope you'll help us make our birthday weekend a festive one!”

FREE ACTIVITIES

- Waffle Fun Run/Walk: Saturday, July 17, at 8:00 a.m. Join Fleet Feet for a 2-4 mile fun run/walk followed by waffles and juice!

- Ice Cream Social & Games on the Lawn: Saturday, July 17, from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Enjoy ice cream sundaes and games on our front lawn. Pets and children are welcome!

- Cookies & Lemonade: Sunday, July 18, from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Enjoy cookies and lemonade all day! Children welcome!

SALES

- Receive 10-25 % off all purchases: It's luck of the draw - pull your discount from a bowl upon entering.

- Super Clearance: Great deals on select apparel, shoes and accessories. All must go!

- And More!

Fleet Feet is located at 431 W Ponce de Leon Ave in downtown Decatur. www.fleetfeetdecatur.com

Beat the Heat

2010-07-08T17:44:00.002-04:00

Glenlake Pool was featured in the recent issue of the DeKalb Neighbor (Wednesday, July 7). Glenlake Pool was listed as one of the five inexpensive or free solutions to cool things down. Pictured- Dynamo staff member Antoinette Redwine and pool patron. To view the article visit www.neighbornewspapers.com. For more information on Decatur pools call 404-377-7231 or www.decaturga.com

Join Team Decatur for the KP Corporate Run/Walk 5k

2010-07-08T15:13:00.008-04:00

The City of Decatur and the Decatur Business Association invite you to join “Team Decatur” as we participate in the KP Corporate Run/Walk 5K on Thursday, September 16th.

What’s in it for you?
• 8 weeks of Fitness Tips
• Training schedules for beginners and experienced walkers and runners
• Free runs and walks around the City of Decatur offered by Big Peach, One Step at a Time, FleetFeet Decatur, Decatur Active Living and more!
• Fitness related discounts
• An evening of fun, and fitness
• Free t-shirt
• Race refreshments and more at the Team Decatur tent at the World’s Largest Office Party

Visit the KP Corporate Run/Walk site today at www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com and go to the registration page to sign up to be a part of Team Decatur. Be sure to click on Team Decatur so you can run or walk with our great community, colleagues and friends.

Be sure to join us for the metro-wide Kick-Off Event on the Old Courthouse Square on Monday, July 26th from 6 until 8pm. Visit with local fitness related businesses, listen to music by Morgan Rowe, and meet Mayor Bill Floyd and former Olympian Jeff Gallaway. There will be information on how to sign up as well as information on free runs and walks around the city.

For more information contact Cheryl Burnette, Cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com or 678-553-6541.

Children Youth Services Summer Day Camps Move Indoors 7/8/10

2010-07-08T15:09:00.002-04:00

Glenlake Discovery and McKoy Safari Camps moved inside due to Code Orange. Glenlake Discovery camp has moved to Clairemont Elementary School. McKoy Safari Camp has moved to Oakhurst Elementary School. Campers should be picked up from the schools today. If you have additional questions please call Children and Youth Services at 404-378-1082.

2010-07-06T14:03:00.003-04:00

The City of Decatur Police Department will host a charity softball tournament on Sunday, July 11, 2010 on behalf of Officer Amy Hall whose hosue burned down in May. Following the tournament the Oakhurst Neighborhood Association will sponsor a cookout and auction at The Solarium, 321 W. Hill Street from 11:30 am until 2 pm. The community is invited to both events.

The softball tournament is an open tournament and begins at 8 am. It is single elimination with a one hour maximum time limit. Games will be played at Oakhurst and McKoy parks with the championship game ending at 12:30 pm. There is a $200 application fee per team that must be paid on the day of the tournament. To register your team contact Lindsey Struck by 1 pm on Wednesday, July 7th at 678-553-6550 or email lindsey.struck@decaturga.com.

The cookout will be held from 11 am until 2 pm and features plenty of food and beverages and a live band. There is a $10 entrance fee to the cookout for all non-softball players and $5 fee for the team participants.

All donations raised by the softball tournament and cookout will be given to the Amy Hall Fund at Decatur First Bank.

For more information contact Marc Brennan marc@ujointbar.com.

Walkable Decatur Neighborhoods- Oakhurst

2010-07-02T18:48:00.003-04:00

Decatur communities are great places to walk, bike and meet your neighbors. (Pictured) are Decatur residents walking to McKoy Pool. The more active people are, the more inclined they are to walk throughout their life and the longer they will live. According to CDC research adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week and muscle-training activities on two or more days a week. For children the guidelines are set at 60 or more minutes of physical activity each day.

New Staff Members Join Decatur Active Living Department

2010-07-02T14:37:00.004-04:00

Decatur Active Living has some new faces that will make a difference in our great Decatur community. Cheryl Burnette will take on the responsibilities of the Interim Assistant Director for Active Living, Kati Abel has been hired to handle Special Events for the City of Decatur on a part-time basis and Erin Bailie is the Active Living Intern who will be responsible for several bike projects. Stop by the recreation center to meet these dynamic individuals who are working each day to make Decatur active and bike friendly. For more information on Decatur Active Living visit http://www.decaturga.com/ or call 404-377-0494

Glenlake Pool Closed Today

2010-07-02T09:23:00.005-04:00

Glenlake Pool will be closed today, Friday July2 until 5 pm for necessary sanitation procedures. Please visit McKoy or Ebster pools to stay cool!

Decatur Red Hatters Go Shopping

2010-07-01T10:40:00.009-04:00

The ladies of the Decatur Red Hat Club went shopping at the Red Hat Store this week. Who knew they had their own special store? This is just one of the many activities for Seniors that the Decatur Active Living Department offers. Thanks to Stacy Green for heading up this great group of ladies.

If you like to wear red and have a lot of fun, this may be the group for you to join. They meet monthly at the Decatur Recreation Department. For more information, call Stacy at 678-553-6549.

Beat the Heat at City of Decatur Pools

2010-06-30T22:32:00.003-04:00

Looking for a cool spot in Decatur- visit the three City of Decatur Pools. Swimming takes place at Ebster Pool, Glenlake Pool and McKoy Pool (Pictured). Swimming pools have been really busy this summer with residents, campers and swim team. Pools can be rented for special events- birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings or company outings. City of Decatur pools are open daily through the month of July and close after Labor Day. City of Decatur pools are being managed by Dynamo Pool Management, Inc this season.
For more information about Decatur pools call (404)377-7231.

McKoy Skate Park Receives a New Skating Bench

2010-06-30T11:00:00.005-04:00

On Monday, June 28 Decatur Active Living installed a new skate park bench for the McKoy Skate Park. The skate park bench is from Spohn Ranch Skateparks (www.SpohnRanch.com). Special thanks to Public Works staff supervisor, Tony Kemp and staff for working out the logistics to install the bench. To our skaters in Decatur have a great time in the skate park. If you have questions about the skate park please call (404)-377-0494. McKoy Skate Park one of the most active spaces in Decatur.

Jeff Gallaway and the KP Corporate Run/Walk

2010-06-25T16:21:00.008-04:00

Jeff Gallaway was at the Holiday Inn last night to educate the community about the annual KP Corporate Run/Walk. The City of Decatur hosted the meeting and will be participating in the September 16th event as "Team Decatur". Last night's attendees learned about the easy ways to keep fit and were encouraged to add fitness into their lives and the lives of their friends and co-workers. The KP Corporate Challenge includes an 8-week "Get Fit" program to prepare the participants for the 5k Walk/Run. To sign up to be a part of Team Decatur, visit http://www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com/.

Mayor Bill Floyd welcomed the crowd and talked about the active Decatur community. On hand were representatives from One Step at a Time, Fleet Feet Decatur, Big Peach Running Company and Phidippides, all of which offer free runs for the community.

The Kick Off for the 8 week Get Fit Program will be held on Thursday, July 26 on the Old Courthouse Square in downtown Decatur from 6 until 8 pm. For more information call Cheryl Burnette at 678-553-6541.

National Bicycling and Walking Study 15-Year Status Report

2010-06-23T17:17:00.004-04:00

This report is the third status update to the National Bicycling and Walking Study, originally published in 1994 as an assessment of bicycling and walking as transportation modes in the United States. The 15-year report, unlike its two predecessors, examines a range of efforts to increase bicycling and walking in the United States. Programs at the Federal, State, and local levels are included, as well as case studies on best practices. Finally, the report makes recommendations for research, policy, and other measures that can be taken to meet the goals of the original study. To review the study visit http://www.walkinginfo.org

Learn to drive your bike in Decatur

2010-06-22T14:14:00.003-04:00

Decatur, where they say it's greater, is an excellent place to learn Confident City Cycling with the Atlanta Bicyle Coalition! On Saturday, July 17th, ABS will offer a bike class for those who want to learn to " drive" their bikes. Driving your bike refers to riding on the street safely, predictably, with confident courtesy. This is the perfect introduction to driver education for teens.

Register at : http://www.atlantabike.org/
Saturday, July 17 from 3:30-7:30pm
Cost: $20 ($10 fro ABC members)
Location: Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore Street, Decatur

It also teaches something more important, and vital to our movement: empathy. Time and time again people tell me, " I never really understood how to interact with cyclists until I started riding a bike in the street." There is no substitute for experience!

So come out to Decatur, bring your teen or anyone else you would like to gain confidence on their bike.

Mike Glenn Hearing Impaired Basketball Camp at Decatur Recreation Center

2010-06-21T12:44:00.004-04:00

Atlanta Hawks basketball commentator and former Atlanta Hawks shooting guard is currently hosting the 31st annual Mike Glenn Basketball Camp for the Hearing Impaired June 20-June 25 at Decatur Recreation Center. The campers play daily at the Decatur Recreation Center from 7pm-9:30pm. The All-Star game is scheduled for Friday, June 25 with a girls game beginning at 6:30pm followed by the boys game at Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore Street. Pictured- Mike Glenn, Roddy White, Atlanta Falcon and campers. For more information about the camp visit www.mikeglenn.com

Fencing returns to the Decatur Community: Beginning Tuesday, June 22

2010-06-18T13:40:00.003-04:00

Decatur Fencing Club
Tuesdays
6pm-8pm Ebster Gym
Ages 10-Adult
All Skill Levels
Cost: $65 per month

Decatur Active Living brings Fencing back to the Decatur community beginning Tuesday, June 22. Fencing is a European- originated Olympic sport based on the art of sword play. For new students, classes will concentrate on providing an enjoyable epee/foil fencing experience, improving physical fitness and creating the foundation needed to understand and appreciate the sport. More advanced, motivated students will have the opportunity to continue studying epee/foil at a higher level. All participants should dress in loose, athletic clothing. Protective equipment will be provided each class.

Instructors
John Terris- is a United States Fencing Coaches Association Certified Coach (Moniteur de Arms) and certified by the USFA Coaches College in Colorado Springs as a Level 2 Epee Coach. John is also the assistant coach for the Atlanta Fencers Club, head coach for the Cherokee Fencers Club and head coach of the Georgia Tech Fencing Club.

Dimitri Kirk-Gordon- is a nationally/internationally ranked foilist who has competed in over 14 countries. Dimitri has earned a place on three Jr. World Cup Teams and took 7th place in the cadet world cup championships in 2002. Dimitri fenced for Ohio State University where he earned the NCAA Scholar Athlete Award.

To register or find out more about fencing call John Terris at 404-384-5375.

Decatur Beach Party Celebrates 25 Years Today

2010-06-18T12:38:00.003-04:00

The 25th annual Decatur Beach Party featuring live music and 60 tons of sand covering city streets is scheduled for today. The event is scheduled from 5pm to midnight. Tickets are $6.50 in advance and $10 at the gate. Children under 12 get in free, with a limit of two free children's tickets per one paying adult. No outside coolers, picnic baskets, glass or pets allowed. Information: visit www.decaturdba.com

Youth Baseball Season Underway at Decatur Active Living

2010-06-18T12:24:00.003-04:00

Youth Baseball season got underway on Saturday, June 5 with a huge opening day baseball parade and plenty of game action. Mayor Floyd and other city officials were in attendance. Thanks to the parents, players, coaches and Active Living staff for making Youth Baseball in Decatur one of the best places to catch a game. Games are played at Oakhurst Monday- Thursday evenings. For more information on Decatur Active Living visit www.decaturga.com

Fast Break Basketball Camp Underway at Decatur High School

2010-06-18T12:15:00.002-04:00

Decatur Active Living's Fast Break Basketball Camp moves to a new location- Decatur High School Gym. Special thanks to Carter Wilson who has been the leader of this camp for many years. The camp has been held at Decatur Recreation Center for over 20 years and Coach Wilson has been dedicated to promote basketball in the Decatur Community. Great staff, lots of fun and plenty of memories for young people. The next session begins June 21 -25. Cost: $200 non-residents, $175 Decatur residents. (Pictured)- Carter Wilson, staff and campers. For more information about the camp call Decatur Active Living at 404-377-0494.

Scam Jam Held at Decatur Recreation Center

2010-06-18T11:59:00.004-04:00

Scam Jam was held at Decatur Recreation Center on Tuesday, June 15. Scam Jam is a crime prevention expo for City of Decatur and DeKalb County " seasoned seniors". Former Mayor, Elizabeth Wilson attended Scam Jam (pictured). For more information about Scam Jam 2011 contact Juanchella G. Franis, Community Relations- Decatur Police Department at 678-553-6656

Share Your Thoughts on Decatur's Community Garden Guidelines

2010-06-16T12:25:00.004-04:00

A public input session to gather feedback on the draft version of our Community Garden Guidelines has been scheduled for:

Thursday, June 17
7pm
Decatur City Hall, City Commission Conference Room

Promoting community gardening is a priority for the City of Decatur and the Environmental Sustainability Board. Draft guidelines have been developed in order to ensure that community garden proposals on city-owned property have proper community support, address the current and future needs of the garden, and meet operational needs of the City.

City of Montgomery, OH City Management Team Visits Decatur

2010-06-14T17:36:00.004-04:00

The City of Montgomery,OH Management Team visited the City of Decatur on this past Thursday and Friday. City Manager, Peggy Merriss and the City of Decatur Management Team shared many great stories from recycling, budgeting, Decatur 101 and we took time to have lunch at the new Glenlake Park. (Pictured) are City of Montgomery staff walking with Fire Chief Toni Dixon. Decatur Active Living took the group on a tour to visit the Oakhurst Community, Decatur Housing Authority, parks, pools, community gardens and showed them various green spaces.

New Glenlake Tennis Courts Create Excitement

2010-06-11T17:51:00.005-04:00

The courts at Glenlake are complete! Experience the new courts and take a stroll around the new Glenlake Park. Glenlake Park offers a active experience for Decatur residents and guest. Play a game of tennis, take swim or walk the trails. For more information on Decatur Active Living call 404-377-0494 or visit www.decaturga.com

Join Team Decatur for the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk- September 16

2010-06-11T17:32:00.002-04:00

The City of Decatur and the Decatur Business Association are "teaming up" to enter a team in the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk to be held on Thursday, September 16 in downtown Atlanta. The event is a 5K that begins under the Olympic Rings and ends next to Turner Field. The event also involves a free 8 week training program. More details to come. The City of Decatur will be kicking off the training program here in Decatur at the Bandstand on the Square- July 26 from 6 until 8pm.

There will be an informational meeting on Thursday, June 24 at 6pm at the Decatur Holiday Inn for those interested in rounding up their co-workers. Our goal is to have 250 participants on the Team Decatur. For more information and to register, visit http://www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com/

Contact: Cheryl Burnette 678-553-6573 cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com

Gregory White 678-553-6543 greg.white@decaturga.com

Glenlake Tennis Courts Reopen- City Manager Hits the First Ball

2010-06-10T18:24:00.007-04:00

Peggy Merriss, City Manager hits the first ball on the new premier court surface at Glenlake Tennis Center today. A new lighting system has been installed to provide better court lighting and reduces light spillage onto adjacent properties. For more information on tennis programs or to reserve a court call 404-377-7231.

Atlanta Junior Bridge- Free Classes at Decatur Rec

2010-06-10T18:08:00.002-04:00

Decatur Active Living will offer FREE bridge classes to boys and girls (5-8th grade). The classes will be held at Decatur Recreation Center from 4pm-6pm. Dates: June 14-18 and June 25-29. All supplies will be provided. If you are interested please contact Stacy Green at 678-553-6549.

Bridge Benefits

"It has been proven that bridge enhances children's analytical skills, helps to improve their academic performance and their problem solving ability".

Visit www.atlantajuniorbridge.org

Glenlake Park Is Open and Experience the Green Space

2010-06-09T12:18:00.004-04:00

Decatur residents enjoying the Glenlake Park! Glenlake Park had a soft opening Memorial Day Weekend and many residents are in the park experiencing the trails, playground and the new play spaces. The dog park is highly used and (Riley pictured) was seen in the dog park on Wednesday afternoon. Final touches are being completed and Decatur Active Living invites you to visit Glenlake and all the parks in our great community.

Tennis Camps Underway at Scott Park

2010-06-09T12:06:00.002-04:00

Decatur Activing Living provides one of the most active camps in Decatur. Munchkin Tennis and Future Stars camps started this week at Scott Park. If you are interested in learning how to play tennis and want a great camp experience then call Glenlake Tennis Center at (404) 377-7231. Upcoming camp dates: Munchkin Tennis July 12-16 9am-10am; Future Stars July 12-16 10-11:30am

Decatur Gators Swimming at Agnes Scott

2010-06-07T16:51:00.002-04:00

The Decatur Gators first home meet will be held at Agnes Scott College on Tuesday, June 8. Come out and support the Decatur Gators. Time: 6pm.

The next home meet is scheduled for Tuesday, June 29. The Decatur Gators practice at Ebster Pool during the week. For more information call 404-377-7231.

Bikes Converge on the Kids and Teens Festival

2010-06-03T17:19:00.002-04:00

Great to see Decatur residents using alternative transportation to attend the Decatur Kids and Teens Festival this past Saturday. The bike rack in front of the recreation center was full of bikes all day. Bikes Belong! For more information about Safe Routes to School contact Gregory White at (404) 377-0494 or greg.white@decaturga.com

Reclaimed Water Benefits Trees in Decatur

2010-06-03T16:33:00.002-04:00

Gerry Knots, Public Works Supervisor reclaims water from the tank at Decatur Recreation Center. Knots uses the water to water the trees around the city and provides water to the Oakhurst Community Garden.

Decatur Arts Festival- Kids and Teens Arts Festival

2010-06-03T16:11:00.003-04:00

Decatur Arts Festival brings out the stars. Eric Litwin and James Dean visited Decatur Recreation Center on Saturday, May 29. Eric Litwin performed and James Dean signed his new book " Pete the Cat: I Love my White Shoes. Thanks to everyone that made the Kids and Teens Arts Festival a success.

Youth Baseball Opening Day Parade - Saturday, June 5

2010-06-02T17:31:00.003-04:00

June 5 11a.m. McKoy Park

Help kick off the 2010 Youth Summer Baseball Season- participate in the Opening Day Parade. Parade line up begins at 10:30am in the upper parking lot of McKoy Park. Parade starts at 11am. The parade begins at McKoy Park and continues through the Oakhurst business district down East Lake Drive and into Oakhurst Park. Don't miss the fun and great game action.

City of Decatur Pools Open Tomorrow

2010-05-28T14:28:00.003-04:00

Ebster Pool, Mckoy Pool and Glenlake Pool open tomorrow at 10am

Kids and Teens Art Festival

2010-05-28T13:58:00.003-04:00

Join us at Decatur Recreation from 10am-2pm for the Kids and Teens festival

Healthy Monday Tip

2010-05-24T11:43:00.001-04:00

Avoid barbeque binging. Stay on track this Memorial Day by using small dishes instead of picking from a larger bowl or package. Seeing your portions makes all the difference!

Marc John Jeffries

2010-05-18T16:56:00.002-04:00

You never know who will stop by Decatur Rec.
On Thursday, April 29th Marc John Jeffries stopped by the Rec Center with his Dad (Marc) to shoot some hoops. Marc had the opportunity to play basketball in a calm surrounding with a great group of Decatur kids. When asked had did they find out about Decatur Rec, both replied, “We asked where can we play basketball where it is safe and low key.” Marc is currently shooting at Agnes Scott College with Martin Lawrence for the up-coming movie , Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son. He will be playing the best friend on Trey.
You may remember Marc from the Movie, Losing Isaiah (1995) where he played the baby of Halley Berry’s character.

Healthy Monday Tip

2010-05-17T15:45:00.001-04:00

Wind down to amp up. Stay alert by devoting 30 minutes a day to a relaxing activity like yoga, meditation or reading. Regular relaxation keeps you energized – get in the habit today!
Become a Facebook Fan of Healthy Monday on Campus!

Little Kickers

2010-05-17T15:40:00.002-04:00

Please be reminded that Lil Kickers class will begin on Monday, April 12 for the Monday/Wednesday Class and on Tuesday, April 13 for the Tuesday/Thursday Class. All classes are from 5:03-6:30pm.
At the present time we have not designated a field for the class. I will contact you before your first class to inform you of the field location.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 678-553-6549 or by e-mail stacy.green@decaturga.com.

Decatur Active Living looks forward to having your child part of our Lil’ Kickers program.

Congratulations to Decatur Active Living Service Award Recipients

2010-05-12T16:36:00.005-04:00

Lee Williams receiving his 5 year pin from City Manager, Peggy Merriss at a recent staff meeting. Lee Williams, is a Program Supervisor for Decatur Active Living.

Virginia receiving her 10 year pin from City Manager, Peggy Merriss at a recent staff meeting. Virginia Atchison is the administrative assistant for Decatur Active Living.

Glenlake Park Update

2010-05-12T10:45:00.007-04:00

Glenlake Park

2010-05-10T15:28:00.003-04:00

Glenlake Tennis Center Update

2010-05-10T13:21:00.004-04:00

The old lights have been removed and the new lights have gone up at Glenlake Tennis Center. There will now be 18 shoebox style energy efficient lights instead of the 11 unshielded lights that were removed. Check back here for more updates.

Glenlake Park Update

2010-05-10T13:19:00.002-04:00

The driveway is being paved. We are getting closer to the re-opening of Glenlake Park.

Atlanta Streets Alive

2010-05-07T12:43:00.002-04:00

The Buildings and Facilities Office and the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity are partnering with the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, the City of Atlanta, the Atlanta Regional Commission and many other local organizations to encourage Healthy People in Healthy Places through Atlanta Streets Alive!

On May 23, 2010 from 1-6 pm Atlanta Streets Alive! will shut down five miles of streets in downtown Atlanta to cars, and open them up for people from across the region to bike, walk, run, play, and make their own. Atlanta Streets Alive! will be an entirely free opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the public realm, build community and participate in healthy activities. By closing streets temporarily to cars, Atlanta Streets Alive will create a safe and welcoming space for people of all ages, fitness levels, and degrees of confidence to bicycle in a safe and welcoming setting. The event will animate many of the dead spaces throughout our downtown, featuring arts installations, improvisation, theater, dance and fitness classes, and will bring a healthy dose of imagination and spontaneous joy to our city. Atlanta Streets Alive! is a Ciclovia style event and is a promising public health strategy to increase physical activity.

Please join us on May 23rd to help our streets come alive! For more information on the event, to see where it will take place or to volunteer please visit www.atlantastreetsalive.com

Contact CDC’s Transportation Planner, Katie Sobush at ghk5@cdc.gov with any questions.

Decatur Laxapalooza

2010-05-03T17:37:00.003-04:00

Come join Decatur Active Living this weekend for our First Annual Lacrosse Tournament.

Come and watch some great lacrosse!

Ages participating: U-11, U-13, U-15 Girls
U-9, U-11, U-13 Boys

Games will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday

Decatur City Field Locations:
• Ebster Field
• Agnes Scott College
• Samuel L. Jones Boys and Girls Club
• Decatur High School
• Renfroe Middle School
Volunteers needed to serve as field captains, information center workers, and on the break down and set up committees.

Games will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
For more information contact Stacy Green at 678-553-6549 or Stacy. Green@decaturga. com

Friday and Sunday Tennis Drills

2010-05-03T12:00:00.003-04:00

The courts at Glenlake Tennis Center are undergoing a complete renovation. The City of Decatur has a tradition with our Friday Night Drills and the Sunday Morning Drills. Drills will resume when the courts at Glenlake have been completed. The expected date is June 5th so I hope to see everyone on Friday, June 11 for Friday evening drills from 6:30-8pm. Yes, Drills have been moved to 6:30 to allow more people the opportunity to attend after fighting Atlanta traffic. Please call 404-377-7231 with any questions.

Gerdening with Tropical Plants

2010-05-03T11:47:00.003-04:00

When: Tuesday, May 18th 7:00pm

Where: 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur, Ga

Speaker: Dr. Bodie Pennisi, Extension Floraculture Specialist in Griffin

Great speaker and lots of fun

To register call 404-298-4080 DeKalb Extension

$10 per person, great door prizes

City of Decatur Pool Passes On Sale Now!

2010-04-28T16:32:00.002-04:00

The 2010 City of Decatur pool passes have arrived and are on sale at Glenlake Tennis Center and the Decatur Recreation Center. For City of Decatur Residents the price for a family pass is $125 for up to 5 people while the price for non-residents is $175. Get yours today.

Decatur Active Living Neighborhood Softball Tournament

2010-04-27T16:21:00.003-04:00

NEIGHBORHOOD
SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

Saturday, May 8
Games will begin at 10:00am
All games will be played at McKoy Park
1006 Adams Street

General Rules

1. Single elimination tournament.
2. A team must have four females on the field at all time.
3. Only one male player will be permitted in the pitcher-catcher combination.
4. Teams must arrange their batting order with at least one female batting between two males.
5. Walks-If a male player is walked, the next female batter will automatically have the option to walk or hit away.

Come play with your neighbors and meet citizens from the greater Decatur area.
For more information contact
Lindsey Struck 678-553-6550
Lee Williams 678-553-6551
For more information contact

Glenlake Tennis Center Renovation

2010-04-27T11:21:00.005-04:00

All of the net posts are currently being removed at Glenlake Tennis Center. The lights will be coming down tomorrow. Glenlake's courts will be closed until June 5th 2010, but there may be availability at Scott Park or Oakhurst. Call 404-377-7231 with any questions or stay tuned to the blog. It will be updated regularly.

Earth Day in Decatur 2010

2010-04-23T11:13:00.009-04:00

A special thank you to all of the Decatur Earth Day 2010 volunteers and participants for taking yet another step towards the goals of making energy and wildlife conservation, recycling, and active living essential parts of our daily lives.

Earth Day in Decatur

2010-04-16T14:47:00.006-04:00

When: Sunday April 18, 2010 from 1-4 pm

Location: Oakhurst Community Gardern

435 Oakview Rd

Decatur, GA 30030

Cost: Free (Rain or Shine)

12:30 - Earth Day Parade begins in Harmony Park

1-4pm - kids crafts, music, cake storytelling, raptors, and an Earth Day T-shirt will be awarded to a lucky winner. There will also be Earth-friendly vendors and information booths.

For more information visit http://www.oakhurstgarden.org/

April 12 - Decatur's Cultural Arts Master Plan

2010-04-08T11:26:00.003-04:00

http://www.decaturga.com/com_artsplan.aspx

Decatur's Cultural Arts Master Plan process began in November. It will include an inventory of existing cultural arts facilities, programs, and public art located throughout the city, identification of program and facility needs, and recommendations for partnerships to meet those needs.

Take Our Survey! Please take a minute to complete our online survey and give us your views on the cultural arts in Decatur.The survey will only take ten minutes and we would love to have you join the conversation!
>Cultural Arts Survey

CDC Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity & Obesity Website

2010-04-08T11:11:00.004-04:00

CDC Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity Website

NEW! Healthy Weight
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn't just about a "diet" or "program". It is part of an ongoing lifestyle that you can adopt now and stay with for years to come. more on healthy weight

Nutrition
Proper nutrition is critical to good health. But identifying which foods you need for a healthy diet can be challenging. These resources can help you get started. more on nutrition

Physical Activity
Regular physical activity reduces the risk for many diseases, helps control weight, and strengthens muscles, bones, and joints. more on physical activity

Overweight and Obesity
Increases in obesity — among both adults and children — have prompted concern about the implications for Americans' health. more on overweight and obesity

For Everyone:

• Healthy Weight

• BMI - Body Mass Index

• Nutrition

• Physical Activity

• Fruits and Veggies Matter

DeKalb County Parks Summer Job Opportunities

2010-04-07T11:23:00.000-04:00

DeKalb County Parks Summer Job Opportunities
http://www.co.dekalb.ga.us/parks/pr-summer-employment.html

We work year-round to keep our parks green and provide exciting classes and activities for residents of DeKalb and beyond. You can be a part of all the fun that's happening at DeKalb County Parks this summer! Applications will be accepted for a variety of summer jobs including pool lifeguards, camp counselors and recreation assistants. Those applying for positions in aquatics are required to submit proof of current certification in CPR, first aid, lifeguarding and water safety instruction, provided by the Red Cross, YMCA or other nationally recognized aquatic training programs. Individuals must be at least 17 years old to apply for these positions. All applicants selected will be required to successfully complete a drug/alcohol screen and criminal background check prior to employment.

To apply for any of the summer jobs listed, simply complete the online application and return via mail, fax or in person to the appropriate office or recreation center where you wish to work listed below.

Seasonal Employment Application
http://www.co.dekalb.ga.us/parks/pdf/TemporaryApplication.pdf
Application Background Check Information

Aquatic Applications should be returned or faxed to:
DeKalb County Parks and Recreation Aquatics Office 4898 LaVista Road, Room 12 Tucker, Georgia 30084

Recreation Applications should be hand delivered or mailed to the recreation center of choice:
Recreation Center Locations

Briarwood Recreation Center2335 Briarwood Way, Atlanta 30319 404-679-5911
Browns Mill Recreation Center5101 Browns Mill Rd, Lithonia 30038770-593-5874
Lucious Sanders Recreation Center2484 Bruce Street, Lithonia 30058 770-482-0408
Gresham Recreation Center3113 Gresham Rd, Atlanta 30316404-244-4890
Hamilton Recreation Center3263 Chapel St, Scottdale 30079404-508-7565
Lynwood Recreation Center3360 Osborne Rd, Atlanta 30319404-303-2100
N. H. Scott Recreation Center2230 Tilson Rd, Decatur 30033404-244-4891Mason Mill Recreation Center1340-B McConnell Dr, Decatur 30032404-679-1349Midway Recreation Center3181 Midway Rd, Decatur 30032404-286-3328
Tobie Grant Recreation Center644 Parkdale Dr, Scottdale 30079404-508-7594
Tucker Recreation Center4898 LaVista Rd, Tucker 30084770-270-6226

Free Webinar - Environmental Measures for Safe Routes to School: Understanding the Basics of Air Pollution

2010-04-07T10:58:00.006-04:00

Environmental Measures for Safe Routes to School: Understanding the Basics of Air Pollution
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/355203048
1-2 pm, Tuesday, April 27th

Presenters: Pat Childers, U.S. EPA; Dan Powell, Planner, Greenville County Planning Dept.

Helping to reduce air pollution is often cited as a reason to walk or bike. However, most of us are unfamiliar with the different types of air pollution and how they affect children compared to adults. In this webinar, Pat Childers, of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will walk us through a basic introduction to the different sources and types of air pollution and how they relate to Safe Routes to School. This basic overview will also teach you how to determine the types of air pollution that are of the greatest concern in your area. Mr. Childers will also discuss various school-related air pollution programs being implemented by EPA.

Mr. Childers presentation will be followed by a ten minute overview of the work Dan Powell is doing with schools in the Greenville County area to reduce idling, improve air quality, and increase walking and bicycling to school. Dan will also discuss how to involve students in the process of evaluating air quality changes.

This webinar is part of the Safe Routes to School Coaching Action Network Webinar Series, developed by America Walks and the National Center for Safe Routes to School. For more information please contact Michelle Gulley at mgulley@americawalks.org.

May - Georgia State Special Olympics at Emory University

2010-04-06T15:18:00.002-04:00

Be a VOLUNTEER for Special Olympics Georgia State Summer Games at Emory University in Atlanta on May 21-23.

For details or to receive the VOLUNTEER application contact Leslie Anderson at leslie.anderson@specialolympicsga.org or go to the website at: www.specialolympicsga.org

Robert Yost
Vice President of Programs
Special Olympics Georgia
robert.yost@specialolympicsga.org

Woodlands Garden Update

2010-04-06T11:28:00.006-04:00

http://www.woodlandsgarden.org/

High Spring at Woodlands

I went to the mountains over the weekend. It was cool and beautiful, but still very early spring there, with only a few blooms on the red maples and sassafras. I was away from Woodlands for only a few days, but everything has changed. The first evergreen azaleas are blooming, and the deciduous native azaleas are about to pop, too. Gorgeous hostas are opening in the Master Gardeners' well garden, mayapples cascade down a hill, and deep red blooms are appearing on the sweetshrub. And all around the house we see evidence 60 years of love and sweat put into this property by Dr. and Mrs. Morse. A thousand thanks to them for creating this beautiful garden and then giving it away for others to enjoy. Below is a photo of a perfect springtime vignette - a Chinese redbud arching over a small pink azalea, with snowdrops, peony and birdbath to complete the scene.

Mid-Week Gardeners meet tomorrow, 9-11am.
Quill and Stella will lead a pruning workshop, and then we will tend to various shrubs that need pruning. Join us for a beautiful morning in the garden. The Garden Committee meeting has been postponed until April 21, but some of us will be heading down to the plant sale at Georgia Perimeter College after the morning work. If you care to join us, we'll make a caravan. Read about the GPC Native Garden and plant sales here: http://www.gpc.edu/~decbt/.

Woodlands has a new telephone - the number is listed below.
For four years we have been using my personal cell phone for the Woodlands phone, and now, I'm pleased to say, Woodlands has a phone of its own. I have not quite yet made the transition to the new phone (which means that I don't have a message on it yet, and don't quite know how to use it!). But please note this new number, and I'll try to answer the phone when you call!

See you in the Garden!

Ruby

Ruby Bock Manager, Woodlands Garden

920 Scott Boulevard, Decatur GA 30030

http://www.woodlandsgarden.org/

678.641.2966

April 24 - Financial Fitness 5K Road Race

2010-04-06T10:38:00.001-04:00

The Center for Financial Independence & Innovation is hosting its first annual Financial Fitness 5K Road Race on Saturday, April 24, 2010 in Doraville.

Register here to Run, Walk, or Roll with us! Registration is powered by Active.com! Or, download a registration form here.

Saturday, April 24, 2010 @ 8:00 AM local time
Address: Doraville Civic Center3770 Central Avenue
Fees: $25
Registration Closing Date: Thursday, April 22, 2010 @ 11:59 PM

Brief Description:
Join us for the first annual Financial Fitness 5K Road Race! Race proceeds support loans for Assistive Technology, asset building programs, and financial education for individuals with disabilities.

Decatur Gator Swim team - Register Now

2010-04-05T15:52:00.002-04:00

Get ready to jump in with the water with the Decatur Gators Swim Team. Ages 5 through 18 years old. Registration is open now, and and we ask that you please register before April 11th if possible. Please register in person at the Decatur Recreation Center or the Glenlake Tennis Center.

Swimsuit Fitting Day is 3 to 5 pm, Sunday, April 11th, at the Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St.

Every swimmer must be able to swim 25 yards continuously to make the team. Please e-mail Coach Zeke at decaturgators@gmail.com with questions or for more info. Jabari Cole, Jabari.Cole@decaturga.com, 404-377-7231, is the secondary contact.

City of Decatur Active Living Aquatics Website

April 11 - "Tango for PD"

2010-04-05T15:12:00.001-04:00

http://www.apdageorgia.org/
American Parkinson Disease Association Georgia Chapter's "Tango for PD"
Sunday, April 11, 2010, 1:00pm-3:30pm
Academy Ballroom Atlanta, 800 Miami Circle, NE,Suite 140/150, Atlanta, GA 30324
For more info., please e-mail edward_k@bellsouth.net or call 404-325-2020.

"Tango for PD"
Come join us! We're having a party for you! This enjoyable event for you, your friends and family will include:

-Delicious refreshments
-An educational presentation given by Dr. Madeleine E. Hackney of the Atlanta VA Rehabilitation R&D Center of Excellence, about new research into dance-based exercise programs that may improve your walking and balance
-A short Chair Warm-up and Beginner level Tango dance lesson for those who want to try out these new therapeutic programs
-Entertainment- performances given by professional dancers, just like "Dancing with the Stars!"
-Open dance floor with a DJ spinning your favorites from the 40's, 50's, 60's and on! Requests are welcomed.

Hosted by the Georgia American Parkinson Disease Association and Dr. Madeleine E. Hackney
*This venue is Wheelchair Accessible
Suggested Donations: $10 per couple.
For more info., please e-mail edward_k@bellsouth.net or call 404-325-2020.

Directions:
From Sydney Marcus:Take the second exit onto Sydney Marcus Blvd. Follow Sydney Marcus to Piedmont Road and turn right onto Piedmont. Miami Circle is the next traffic light. Turn right into Miami Circle; Academy Ballroom Atlanta is approximately 1.1 miles on the left..

From Hartsfield International Airport and Points South:Take I-75/85 to I-85 North to Exit 86 (Buford Highway), which will be an access road. Take the second exit on the access road (237 North Piedmont Road. The Miami Circle entrance is 1.1 miles on the right.
From I-75 North:Take I-75 South to I-85 North Exit 86 (Buford Highway), which will be an access road. Take the second exit on the access road (237 North Piedmont Road. The Miami Circle entrance is 1.1 miles on the right.

From I-85 North:Take I-85 South to Exit 88 (Cheshire Bridge/Lenox Road). Turn right onto Cheshire Bridge and take your next immediate left onto Buford Highway. The road will fork; bear to the right onto Sidney Marcus Boulevard. Follow Sidney Marcus to Piedmont Road. Turn right onto Piedmont Road. The Miami Circle entrance is the next traffic light. Turn right into Miami Circle; Academy Ballroom Atlanta is approximately 1.1 miles on the left.

Georgia Safe Routes Update

2010-04-05T12:33:00.002-04:00

Dear SRTS Friends and School Champions, Happy Spring! As the temperatures heat up, I hope you will find many more opportunities to host walk and bike to school activities. In fact, 60% of you are holding monthly or weekly events throughout the spring. Consider "Going Green" for Earth Day by encouraging your students to walk and bike.

As we approach CRCT... did you know that children who get some physical activity in the morning are more likely to be focused and attentive during class [and testing]? It helps expend extra energy and gets them to school refreshed! Georgia now has 125 schools who participate in the Safe Routes to School program!

The following was taken from the League of American Bicyclists (www.bikeleague.org/educenter/labsrts.htm)

Parents did you know that:
-15% of children and adolescents aged 6–19 years are overweight (CDC)?
-In one generation, the number of kids biking and walking to school has dropped from 71% to 18%?
-20-25% of morning rush hour traffic can be parents driving kids to school?

The solution: Get kids moving. To maintain a healthy weight, kids must start leading more active lifestyles at an early age. Make regular physical activity part of your kids’ daily routine. Biking and walking to school is one great way to do this.

• Start or take part in a Safe Routes to School program in your community.
• Start walking or biking groups (called Walking School Buses.)
• Ensure kids have safe places to cross streets around the school.
• Drive slowly through school zones.
• Teach basic traffic safety skills to your children.

Calender:
April 7: SRTS Mini-Grants Due
April 7: World Health Day
April 22: Earth Day
April 25 - May 3: Safe Kids Week
April 26-30: Air Quality Awareness WeekMay: National Bike Month
May 17-21: Bicycle Safety Week
September 13-17: Pro Walk/Pro Bike Conference
October 6: International Walk to School Day

SRTS News: Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign
As part of her “Let’s Move” campaign against childhood obesity, first lady Michelle Obama wants more children to walk to school. Lauren Marchetti, director of the federal National Center for Safe Routes to School, talks about the realities of kids getting to school under their own power. Read about it here.

SRTS Toolbox Spotlight: Walk Georgia Walk Georgia is an 9-week program aimed at increasing physical activity in a fun, team-oriented way. It is an ideal activity for a school's PE class and motivates students by tracking their progress as they "walk" across Georgia.When you accumulate miles, you will be able to navigate a map of Georgia and chart your course to "walk" Georgia. As you move throughout this virtual state, you will be able to view fun facts about each county you visit and learn new ways to improve your health. You will also be able to see how you compare to other teams throughout the state. Visit http://www.walkgeorgia.org/ for more information.

Please let me know if you have questions or if I can be of further assistance. Have a great week!Abby Mattera
School Outreach Coordinator - Metro Atlanta
Georgia Safe Routes to School Resource Center
www.SafeRoutesGA.org

GA State Parks: Celebrate Spring with Wildflower Hikes & Earth Day Festivities

2010-04-05T11:54:00.001-04:00

From Georgia State Parks:
Celebrate Spring with Wildflower Hikes & Earth Day Festivities

The 40th anniversary of Earth Day is Thursday, April 22, and throughout the month, Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites have a potpourri of exciting adventures planned. Choose from caving, rappelling, flyfishing, night hikes, moonlight paddles, wildflower hikes and more. Spring is the perfect time to get the entire family outdoors, and there's sure to be something for every interest and age level. Additionally, communities around Georgia will host events and activities to commemorate the Earth Day birthday. At www.ConserveGeorgia.org, you can find a comprehensive list of activities in all areas of the state.

APRIL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Celebrate Earth Day at Georgia State Parks. April is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors with pleasing temperature and plenty of spring blooms. For an online calendar listing, visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/events. You can also become a fan on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Native American Tools and Weapons
Saturday, April 10
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville
Learn how to make, use and care for Native American tools and weapons. Also explore the museum, earthen mounds, and village site. $3.50-$5.00 (770) 387-3747.

New Manchester History Hike
Saturdays, April 10, 24, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This mile-long hike (easy to moderate) will lead us to the five story ruins of the Civil War-era New Manchester textile mill and focus on the history of the Sweetwater Creek Valley. This Historian or Ranger-led hike will include going inside the impressive mill ruins and seeing the lovely whitewater rapids (both providing great photo opportunities). $2-$3 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Lost Person Prevention
Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn simple techniques for not getting lost and keeping track of your family when venturing into the great outdoors of Georgia. Search and Rescue Dog Team will be joining the class unless a SAR activity is occurring. Meeting at the nature center. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
The two-hour clinic covers equipment, knot tying, casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the “Fish of Fish.” Instructors C. H. Brown and Michael Reilley suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Family Camping Clinic
Saturday April 10 and Sunday, April 11, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
This clinic allows the whole family to build confidence and develop an appreciation of the natural world through science education, exploration, and the classic fun of camping. Please bring your own gear. We will supply water, base camp, and outdoor programs such as Search and Rescue Classes, Fly Fishing, Canoeing and other wilderness adventure programs. Meeting at the nature center, unless stated otherwise. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $80 for a family of 5. $50 for a family of 3. $35 for a family of 2 or less. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Mountain Top Adventure Hike
Sunday, April 11, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as a ranger explains why the mountain is protected and what we can do to preserve granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray and your camera. Rain or shine. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Springtime at the Homestead
Saturday, April 17 through Sunday, April 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge – Cartersville
Step back in time to the 1860s as demonstrators present civilian and military life at the Vaughn Cabin. We will have quilting, spinning, cooking, blacksmithing, woodcarving, candle dipping, black powder and more. $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.

Saturday Mountain Hike
Saturday, April 17, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows park visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as the Ranger explains the reasons Panola Mountain is protected, and what we can all do to preserve the natural beauty of granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and your camera! The Panola Mountain hike starts at 10am and generally lasts 3-4 hours. Rain or shine. Call to register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Introduction to Flyfishing
Saturday, April 17, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join an expert angler and learn about the art of flycasting. Poles will be provided for the class, or anglers can bring their own tackle. In case of inclement weather the class will be held indoors. Pre-registration is required. This class will be limited to 10 participants, class will be geared toward 7 years and up. Meet near the Sweetwater Creek Baitshop. $10 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb
Saturday, April 17, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us "on rope" for an adventure exploring the canopy above. This is an introductory climb to Canopy-Adventure-Research-Educational Technical Tree Climbing (CARE TTC). Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Giants of the Forest – Arbor Day Celebration
Saturday, April 24, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn why forests are important to humans and explore efforts being made to conserve this natural resource. This is an all day hike. Be prepared for all weather conditions and bring good hiking boots. Meeting at the nature center, unless stated otherwise. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. Friends of Panola will provide snacks and drinks for an additional cost. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Tree Top Night Climb
Saturday, April 24, 6 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us aloft in "Naomi Ruth," a wonderful 90-foot Southern Red Oak, which is our living classroom. This nocturnal climb will include fluorescent lichen and other glowing critters of the night, stargazing and night climbing activities. We may even have a barred owl join us. Meeting at Naomi-Ruth Climbing Tree. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $25 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Rivers Alive/Earth Day Cleanup
Saturday, April 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join us for Rivers Alive, Georgia's Annual Volunteer Waterway Cleanup, as we celebrate Earth Day by cleaning the post-flood banks and trails of beautiful Sweetwater Creek. $5 parking. 770-732-5871.Mountain Bike Adventures
Saturday, April 24, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join the Southern Bicycle League at the Rockdale River Trail parking area by Alexander Lakes for an off-road adventure. This ride will take you to scenic vistas, wetland complexes and pine savannah. Covers most of Panola Mountain's property; both dirt and paved trails. Meeting at the Alexander Lake Parking Area. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

“Ruins to Rapids” Full Moon Hike
Friday, April 30, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This 1.5-mile ranger-led night hike is moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester and follows the lovely rapids (up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. No children under 6 or dogs. Meet inside the Visitor Center. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Local Author new book on Youth Baseball, including Decatur Youth Athletics

2010-04-05T10:44:00.004-04:00

Decatur News Online has an article on Hal Jacobs, a local author who has a new book, Ball Crazy, that includes the Decatur Youth Athletics baseball program:

Local Author Explores His Relationship with Baseball and His Son

The book chronicles your son's team in the Druid Hills Youth Sports program at Medlock Park. What is your take on the youth baseball scene in and around Decatur?

Jacobs: Our two sons played in the recreational leagues of the City of Decatur and Druid Hills. City of Decatur was low-key and informal; Medlock was more instructive and competitive. Both were great in their own ways and provided lots of support.
The season I describe in the book involved a summer team of Druid Hills all-stars, which played in a few travel-ball tournaments to get ready for the PONY playoffs. In the book I give a little historical overview of how youth baseball has evolved over the last 70 or so years into something more specialized and over-organized. Parents have more options than ever before -- and with that comes more stress.
I also describe a game between our little all-star team and a team from East Cobb (the gold standard for Atlanta travel teams), which at times felt like a contest between citizen-farmers and Hessian mercenaries.

Talk about the difference in your connection to the game as a child versus the ultra-organized game your son knows?

Jacobs: Both experiences are valuable in their own way. Sandlot baseball taught me how to play, organize and negotiate on my own terms without any adults around. Imagination counted more than discipline. I loved having pine trees for bases. Organized baseball taught my sons how to work with adults and the value of practice, delayed gratification, and controlling emotions. They acquired more confidence and focus during their adolescent years than I did. But I probably spent a lot more time daydreaming.

Mr. Jacobs will have a book signing event on Saturday, April 17th at the Eagle Eye Bookstore:

Hal Jacobs signs BALL CRAZY
Saturday, April 17th, 3:00pm – 6:30pm
Eagle Eye Boostore, 2076 N.Decatur Rd., Decatur, GA 30033 ()

Description: There’s going to be a fundraising component to the event – proceeds from the sale of each book will be donated to Druid Hills Youth Sports Association (aka Medlock Park). Hal will be signing books & grilling hotdogs, from 3-5pm on Saturday, April 17th; we’ll have wine & cheese from 5-6:30pm. Ball Crazy provides insight into why some men become so obsessed with their child’s team, and does so by describing the action, intensity and magic of games (in a way that even nonfans can relate). It’s an honest look at the effect of competitive youth sports on the psychological and physical health of both players and parents. Hal Jacobs is a freelance writer and an editor at Emory University. He is a former book review columnist for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, writing a regular column called "Reading the South."

Saturday - The Big Sugar Creek Garden Kickoff!!

2010-04-02T11:02:00.001-04:00

Sugar Creek Garden (formerly called Oakhurst farm), the newest site of our beloved Oakhurst Community Garden Project, is ready to break ground this weekend!

Located behind Oakhurst Presbyterian Church at East Lake Drive and Second Avenue (across the street from the dog park), this new garden will host "farm-like" rows for growing vegetables, all kinds of fruit, perennial vegetables and medicinal herbs.

It will be open to the community for ongoing volunteer efforts and education classes, including three important involvement opportunities this month:

> Ground-breaking workday: Saturday, April 3, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. We will be creating veggie beds with shovels and compost.
> Oakhurst Presbyterian workday, Saturday, April 17, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. we'll be building the outdoor classroom, removing invasive species and planting seeds.
> Ribbon cutting with Decatur city officials: Monday, April 19, 4:30-5:30 p.m. A celebration of the "official" opening of the new garden.

Please contact Lindsey Mann at: lindsey@sustenancedesign.net to sign up for an event or to be added to Sugar Creek Garden's e-mail notification list.

Winnona Park Elem Monthly Walk/Bike to School Day

2010-04-01T15:08:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Winnona Park Elem parent volunteer Leslie Stuart, for her work throughout the year, and today's monthly Walk & Roll to School Day at WPE. Leslie reports:

"I wanted to let you know that we had a decent walk & roll day this morning at Winnona. We had 30 kids on our walking school buses and another 70 who walked or biked on their own."

Decatur Farm to School - Support Local & Healthy Foods for Decatur Schools

2010-03-31T10:50:00.001-04:00

www.decaturfarmtoschool.org
Two Great Ways to Support Local & Healthy Foods for Decatur Schools!

The Decatur Farm to School Initiative is hosting two events in April to raise money to integrate Farm to School principles into the curriculum and the cafeteria. The first event, in conjunction with Earth Day, an April 17th viewing of the film Dirt! The Movie in the new Decatur High School Auditorium. Dirt! The Movie is an Official Selection of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival (visit www.dirtthemovie.org for more details). Tickets are $5 per person and benefit Decatur Farm to School. Ticket sales start that evening at the DHS auditorium from 7-7:30 p.m. and a brief discussion session will follow the movie. Be sure to check out our concession stand of locally-made goodies, including special treats provided by Nectar, and Farm to School t-shirts for sale.

The second event is a Dine Out for Farm to School on Tuesday, April 20th from 5-9 p.m. Leon's Full Service, Steinbecks, The Iberian Pig, Cakes & Ale, Brick Store Pub, and Universal Joint will host this event and will donate a percentage of the night's proceeds to Decatur Farm to School. Make plans now to come out early with the family, or grab your friends for a night out! Each restaurant will serve up Farm-to-School menu items using local ingredients, and Cakes & Ale will also have a kids menu item from 5-7 p.m.

We need everyone to come out to help these two events raise funds for healthy foods in our schools, so make plans now to see Dirt! The Movie on April 17th and to dine out on April 20th!

Volunteers and restaurants owners who are interested in supporting the event can contact Kristin Allin of Cakes & Ale at kristin@cakesandalerestaurant.com for additional information.

Additional information on the Decatur Farm to School initiative can be accessed at www.decaturfarmtoschool.org.

Decatur Farm to School partners include Georgia Organics, the Oakhurst Community Garden, the Decatur Education Foundation, and Decatur Active Living.

City of Decatur Residents, Let's Hear From You!

2010-03-31T10:35:00.004-04:00

The Decatur Active Living Advisory Board and the Active Living staff have developed a survey for City of Decatur residents. Your opinions are valuable in our continued effort to make Decatur one of the most active cities in the country! Please take our online survey and let us know your comments, suggestions, etc.

Please click HERE to take the survey.

March 27 - Decatur Electronics Recycling Day

2010-03-24T14:34:00.001-04:00

Decatur Electronics Recycling Day

http://www.decaturga.com/cgs_citysvcs_sfm_electronics.aspx#article
SPRING 2010 Event Scheduled for March 27, 2010 at Decatur High School Parking Lot

NOTE: Early drop offs are not possible.

Don't throw away that old cell phone, camera or PC component! Save it and recycle it on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at Decatur's Spring Electronics Recycling event. This semi-annual event has been hugely successful at diverting electronic equipment from landfills, where they may contaminate soil and water. Batteries will be accepted.

TV's will be recycled for a minimal fee of $10 cash only per TV set with exact change. There is no charge to recycle other items. The event takes place Saturday, March 27th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Decatur High School Parking lot, on the corner of N. McDonough St. and W. Howard Avenue. Electronics dropped off that day will be sorted and disassembled into raw materials or cleaned for re use.

In addition to electronics, any metro area resident can also drop off batteries of any type. Volunteers assist in unloading items. To volunteer, please contact Sandy Johnson at 404-377-5571.

Early drop offs are not possible. For additional information call Sean Woodson, 678-898-8562.

Electronic Equipment for Recycling: See updated list for items that will be accepted at the Spring 2010 Event:

Almost anything with an electrical cord can be recycled at the event EXCEPT microwave ovens, furniture, light fixtures, household appliances, lamps, vacuum cleaners. We will recycle for free: desktop computers, telephones, mini-towers, telephony equipment, laptop computers, adding machines, monitors, calculators, servers, typewriters, workstations, label makers, keyboards, copiers, mice, fax machines, joystick game controllers, answering machines, printers, printer cartridges, digital cameras, zip drives, batteries, speakers, PDAs, pagers, VCRs, hubs, DVD players, routers, cable converter boxes, scanners, remote controls, digital projectors, stereo equipment, UPS units, radios, main frames, portable CD players, component parts, portable game players, cables, GPS receivers, 3-in-1 devices (printer/copier/fax machines), electric lawn mowers and garden equipment and all types of batteries. We will recycle television sets for $10 exact change.

Scott Garden Club Workday

2010-03-24T13:49:00.003-04:00

The Scott Garden Club had a workday last Saturday, 3/20 with a great participation- over a dozen members weeded, pruned and shared their gardening expertise with their neighbors. The Native Garden is in great shape with new growth on perennials and shrubs. The arbor rose and trumpet vine were trimmed. Compost was turned and available for refurbishing the garden beds. One of the gardeners rototilled several beds for fellow gardeners.

This followed our meeting on 3/18 where an excellent program was given on practical approach to organic gardening by Rachael Caplan (Gaia Gardens at East Lake Commons Co-Housing). Much emphasis was given to using cover crops and leaf mulch to enhance and rehabilitate the soil. Gaia is a CSA, community supported agriculture site and complies with USDA organic gardening certification requirements.

Kathy Hightower, DeKalb Master Gardener/Scott Garden Co-site Leader

www.oakhurstgarden.org Events

2010-03-24T13:01:00.000-04:00

www.oakhurstgarden.org

Lawns to Lettuce - Front Yard Makeover, Decatur Garden Tour

For the 2010 Decatur Garden Tour, one front yard will be transformed from its current state to a lush and productive food garden!

Tired of mowing your front lawn? Of a plain green (or maybe not-so-so-green) front yard? Want some fresh tomatoes at your front door? Some flowers and basil and lettuce and cilantro? Turn your front yard into an edible landscape with the help of the experts at the Oakhurst Community Garden Project on behalf of the Decatur Garden Tour committee!

The committee is looking for a sunny front yard that can be transformed into a bountiful food garden. The OCGP will design an edible landscape tailored to your taste and wishes, help you choose and find the plants,
and help you install the garden. You will care for the garden and harvest the produce, and your garden will be on the Decatur Garden Tour.

To qualify: Your front yard needs to be within the City of Decatur limits. Your front yard will also be featured on the 2010 Decatur Garden Tour, held September 25 and 26. The OCGP will provide the edible landscape design, some of the work required to install the garden, some of the summer vegetable plants, advice with maintaining the garden over the summer and beyond; the owner will provide the balance of the work to
install the garden, the balance of the plant material, the materials needed to establish the garden (mulch, compost, leaves, etc.), and the maintenance of the garden over the summer and beyond.

How to apply: by 5 April, send to OCGP your name, address, and a short letter indicating why you are interested in this project, by snail-mail, 435 Oakview Road, Decatur, GA 30030, or e-mail
director@oakhurstgarden.org.

The winning front yard will be chosen by 15 April and its owner contacted by that date; the official announcement will be made on the Earth Day (18 April) celebration at the Oakhurst Garden.

Free Gardening Workshops for CSD Families - Seed Sowing this Sunday

Funded by a Kaiser Permanente grant received by the Decatur Education Foundation, the Oakhurst Community Garden Project is proud to announce upcoming workshops that are both FREE and open to City Schools of Decatur families.

Who can come? Priority is given to families with children enrolled in the City Schools of Decatur. How many spots are available? We have room for 20 families.

Space is limited. We ask that you RSVP in advance. Please contact Myriam Van Dorp to reserve your family's spot. Ocgp@oakhurstgarden.org, (404) 371-1920.

March 28, 3-5 p.m. – Seed Sowing Workshop
Are you a first time gardener or maybe looking for creative ways to get your children to appreciate the joys of gardening? Are you interested in gardening but have limited backyard space. If this sounds like you, come learn the basics of spring and summer gardening and get a head start on your Spring and Summer gardens. During this workshop you will be introduced to the variety of summer vegetables you can plant, learn the basics of plant care, and plant some seeds to take home. We will also explore container vegetable gardens, seed spacing, and pest control.

April 17th, 10 a.m.-noon – Bees for Beginners
Explore the important role of pollinating insects in your garden through an up close look at our honeybees. In this workshop you will explore honeybee behavior, biology, and importance through creative games and
activities. You will even get to taste some honey! You and your family will also learn about the flowers you can plant to attract butterflies to your garden, turning an ordinary backyard into a wildlife habitat. Come celebrate Earth Day this year while helping to promote responsible environmental stewardship!

May 1st, 10 a.m.-noon – Bug Day!
Creepy, crawly bugs are everywhere! They are the neighbors that you\ rarely see, and when you do, often they are not welcome. But bugs are an essential ingredient in the chain of life. Children will especially enjoy this hands-on craft workshop. They will create and take home models of various bugs at different stations in the garden. In the process, they will learn about insects and how to identify them, opening their eyes to a world of discovery.

Thursday - Community Road Map to Health

2010-03-24T12:29:00.001-04:00

Community Road Map to Health
Hosted by: The Live Healthy DeKalb Coalition and The DeKalb County Board of Health

Thursday, March 25, 2010
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
DeKalb County Board of Health • Bohan Auditorium
445 Winn Way • Decatur, Ga 30030

Calling all Elected officials, commissioners, residents, students, businesses, faith groups & health care professionals. Share Your Voice. Be Heard. Express Yourself!

What is important to our community?
How is the quality of life perceived in our community?
What assets do we have that can be used to improve community health?

To RSVP, email Avian Wynn, avwynn@dhr.state.ga.us or call 404-294-3803.

Saturday - Renfroe Garden Volunteer Day

2010-03-24T11:27:00.001-04:00

Renfroe Garden Volunteer Day Needs Your Help

Renfroe Middle School, Project R.E.A.L., and the Oakhurst Community Garden are proud to announce the first Renfroe Garden Volunteer Day!!! Please join us as we begin to cultivate the beginnings of a wonderful project.

10 am, Saturday, March 27th

Contact Person: Barrett Tibbetts- (404)488-0881 or barrett.tibbetts@decaturga.com.

Youth Sports Free Webinar/Positive Chart

2010-03-19T12:56:00.003-04:00

https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/535143736

Positive Coaching Webinar for Leaders
Tuesday, April 13, 2010 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM PDT
Webinar Registration

Join us on April 13th at 11am PT (2pm ET) for a webinar with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA).

This one-hour webinar led by Jim Thompson, Executive Director of Positive Coaching Alliance, provides an introduction to:
- The Double-Goal Coach Model, in which a coach's first goal is to win and second, more-important goal is to teach life lessons through sports.
- Leadership tools to help you shape your organization into one that cultivates excellence among coaches, parents, fans and players.
- The Second-Goal Parent, whose role it is to support their child so that he or she has a fun, positive experience in sports.
- Tips for improving player performances while providing them with life skills that serve them on and off the field.

Positive Coaching Alliance is a nonprofit organization founded at Stanford University with the mission to transform youth sports so that all athletes have a positive, character-building experience. This webinar will be interactive, so please bring any questions that you have about PCA or this opportunity to the call.

*Wondering what a Webinar is? * A Webinar is a lecture delivered over the internet where participants follow along visually on their computer and listen in via phone. A Webinar is a collaborative experience that includes polling and question & answer sessions to allow pull participation between the audience and the presenter.

Youth Sport Coaches:
Here's how to use a Positive Chart: Click HERE.

This May - DeKalb County Senior Olympics

2010-03-18T14:48:00.005-04:00

DeKalb County Senior Olympics

TABLE TENNIS TO BE HELD AT THE DECATUR RECREATION CENTER!
6:30 pm, Tuesday, May 11th - Singles
6:30 pm, Thursday, May 13th - Doubles

Activities:
Table Tennis (Singles & Doubles), Line Dancing, Swimming, Tennis, Water Volleyball, Golf, Bowling, Track and Field, Wii Bowling (New), Horseshoes, Canasta, Talent Show, Checkers, Dominoes, Mah Jong, Fun Walk, Billiards, Pinochle

Registration Information brochure
Senior Olympic General Information
Registration Form
2010 Events Schedule and Venues
Important Information

For additional information, call 404-371-2990 or e-mail jdswain@co.dekalb.ga.us.

The DeKalb County Parks & Recreation Department invite all men and women 50 years of age and older to come and participate in this wonderful senior athletic event. There are over 30 event categories and team sports offered. Our mission is to promote healthy lifestyles for seniors through fun, fitness, and play. The Benefits We are proud to be able to help promote healthy lifestyles for adults, particularly seniors of 50 years and older. It’s no secret that baby boomers are entering their golden years and are becoming more conscious about health and the way we age. Staying fit and active is the best answer to aging. The games provide an excellent way for seniors to maintain or improve their physical and mental condition as well as their coordination, while enjoying some friendly competition. Plus, you meet new friends, engage the whole family in the fitness mode and you can become a volunteer too!

Event: May 10-20, 2010
Register: March 22 - April 19
Fee: $10 per person (fee includes 2 sports and souvenir shirt)

DeKalb County Senior Olympics Purpose:
To provide adults 50 and older an opportunity to participate in a program that:
-Encourages more physical activities
-Promotes healthier lifestyles
-Promotes health and wellness
-Provides a unique opportunity for socialization through competitive activities.

Age:
Participants must turn 50 years old by September 26, 2010. Events are divided into men’s and women divisions and age groups where appropriate. Birthdate must be included for this reason. Awards:
Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each event.

DeKalb County Senior Olympics reserves the right to combine age groups or to cancel any event due to insufficient registration, inclement weather, and unusual or extenuating circumstances.

REGISTRATION AND FEES
-A $10.00 registration fee must accompany the complete application form.
-Registration for participants outside of DeKalb County will be an additional $10.00.
-A $5.00 late registration fee will be added after April 19th.
-Mail-in registrations must be postmarked by April 19th
-Registration entitles the individual to participate in any event where a time conflict does not occur.
-Registration includes a Senior Olympics T-shirt.

Mail registration form with payment to: DeKalb County Parks and Recreation, Attn: Jackie Swain, 1300 Commerce Drive, Rm. 300, Decatur, Georgia 30030

Registration is payable by check or money order; NO CASH ACCEPTED .
Please make payable to "DeKalb County Parks and Recreation".
The liability waiver must be signed and dated by the applicant.
Special accommodations will only be available with prior arrangements. If you need special assistance, please let us know when you register.

For additional information, call 404-371-2990 or e-mail jdswain@co.dekalb.ga.us.

Mar 14-15 - ACSM World Heart Games at Agnes Scott

2010-03-18T13:48:00.004-04:00

The ACSM World Heart Games

May 14-15, 2010 • Co-hosted by Agnes Scott College, Decatur, Georgia
Register at www.acsm.org/worldheartgames by April 2, 2010

Olympic Style Competition for Cardiac Rehab Patients
Cardiac patients get a wide variety of challenging but safe activities to compete in for the ACSM World Heart Games. These provide a monitored and competitive way for the participants to be active in a way that they’re comfortable with.

Reclaiming the Joy of Sports - Olympic Style Competition for Cardiac Rehab Patients!

Cardiac rehabilitation patients will get a wide variety of challenging, but safe activities to compete in for the 2010 World Heart Games. These provide a monitored and competitive way for the participants to be active in a way that they and their medical team are comfortable with. Some events that participants can expect to compete in are: table tennis, bocce, golf putting, bowling, prediction events, basketball, game of knowledge, volleyball, tennis, softball throw, soccer shoot a 9-hole golf tournament and much more. We encourage you to learn more about the game rules. As clinicians in cardiac rehabilitation, we have all witnessed the evolution of the sedentary, sometimes isolated life in our patients with cardiac disease or risk-related symptoms, to one of hope, activity and purpose. Cardiac rehabilitation programs prepare patients to reenter life!

Contact Jessica Hancock (jhancock@acsm.org) (317) 352-3893 with any questions or for information on how to support the ACSM World Heart Games.

Family Events on March 27th

2010-03-18T13:44:00.001-04:00

City of Decatur Child Car Seat Event on March 27
The City of Decatur Fire Department has scheduled a Child Car Seat Event to be held in conjunction with the Easter Egg Hunt on March 27. The event will be held from 10am until 1pm at the Callaway Parking lot on Commerce Drive. Firefighters encourage you to stop by to find out if your child’s car seat is the correct one for their size and if it is properly installed. Safety information will also be available.

City of Decatur Easter Egg Hunt
The Decatur Business Association presents the 2010 Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, March 27 from 11:00am – 11:30am. Join the Easter Bunny and hunt for candy on the square in downtown Decatur. Easter Bunny arrives at 10:30 a.m. Age categories: 0-2; Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st – 5th grades. Sponsored by Decatur Business Association and local businesses. Free. Visit www.decaturdba.com for more details.

Let's Move!

2010-03-17T16:11:00.002-04:00

http://www.letsmove.gov/

Childhood obesity or excess weight threatens the healthy future of one third of American children. We spend $150 billion every year to treat obesity-related conditions, and that number is growing.
Obesity rates tripled in the past 30 years, a trend that means, for the first time in our history, American children may face a shorter expected lifespan than their parents.
We need to get moving. Join First Lady Michelle Obama, community leaders, teachers, doctors, nurses, moms and dads in a nationwide campaign to tackle the challenge of childhood obesity.
Let’s Move has an ambitious but important goal: to solve the epidemic of childhood obesity within a generation.
Let’s Move will give parents the support they need, provide healthier food in schools, help our kids to be more physically active, and make healthy, affordable food available in every part of our country.
Learn more and join us.

Physical Activity
Children need 60 minutes of active and vigorous play every day to grow up to a healthy weight.(source) If this sounds like a lot, consider that 8-18 year-olds devote an average of 7 ½ hours to using entertainment media including TV, computers, video games, cell phones and movies in a typical day, and only a third of high school students get the recommended levels of physical activity. To increase physical activity, today’s children need safe routes to walk and ride to school, parks, playgrounds and community centers where they can play and be active after school, and sports, dance or fitness programs that are exciting and challenging to keep them engaged.
Let’s Move to increase opportunities for kids to be physically active, both in and out of school and create new opportunities for families to be moving together.
The Presidential Active Lifestyle Award is provided through the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. This challenge for both children and adults is to build healthy habits by committing to regular physical activity five days a week, for six weeks. Measuring daily activity for six weeks isn’t easy, and deserves recognition. As part of the First Lady’s commitment to solve the problem of childhood obesity in a generation, the Council will double the number of children in the 2010-2011 school year who earn a “Presidential Active Lifestyle Award” by engaging in regular physical activity.

Take the President’s Active Lifestyle Challenge

It’s also time to modernize the President’s Physical Fitness Challenge and increase participation in the challenge, so it’s not just about how athletic kids are – how many sit-ups and push-ups they can do – but how active they are each day. Stay tuned for new and exciting updates to the President’s Physical Fitness Council and its efforts to bring more kids into the Challenge.
Professional athletes from a dozen different leagues – from the NFL and Major League Baseball, to Women’s Professional Soccer and the WNBA – are moving to help ensure kids get 60 minutes of active play each day through sports clinics, partnerships, public information campaigns and more.
This Spring, LetsMove.gov will unveil specialized tool kits and strategies to help increase physical activity for our kids and ensure 60 minutes of active play each day.

Nobody Does it Better - This Saturday, the Annual Touch-a-Truck Event

2010-03-16T10:54:00.005-04:00

Come join Decatur Active Living on Saturday, March 20th for the annual "Touch-a-Truck" event. This free community event gives children of all ages a chance to touch, explore and see their favorite truck or equipment on wheels. The City of Decatur fire truck, dump trucks, tractors, police cars, motorcycles, bicycles and many other vehicles will be on display.

Location: Calloway Building Parking Lot, 120 West Trinity Place
When: Saturday, March 20, 2010
Time: 10:00am-1:00pm
For more information, please contact Greg White at 678-553-6543.

Friday - Decatur Youth Lacrosse Night at the DHS Stadium

2010-03-15T17:05:00.004-04:00

Decatur Youth Lacrosse Night!

Decatur Youth Lacrosse Night at the Decatur High School Stadium will be held on Friday, March 19, 2010. The varsity girls game time is at 5:00pm; varsity boys game time is at 7:00pm
(Decatur High vs. Pace Academy).

All 2010 Youth Lacrosse Players will be allowed to attend the Decatur High School games FREE with one paying adult. All players MUST wear their Youth Lacrosse Jersey. Come and support Decatur High School’s Bulldogs!

To make the evening a little bit special for the Rec players, there will be a girls and boys (8 minute) scrimmage at halftime of each game.

Extra Bonus: Stay after the High School games and see Georgia State host Furman College at DHS Stadium.

For more information, please contact Stacy Green at 678-553-6549.

Mar 25 - "Rules for Safe Medication Use"

2010-03-12T11:15:00.001-05:00

SPREAD HEALTH - Learn smart ways to live well

Decatur Recreation Center Healthy Aging Series
"Rules for Safe Medication Use"
Speaker: Kelly Degraffenreid, MD
10:00 – 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 25, 2010
FREE
Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore Street

Get preventive health information on chronic health conditions and nutrition from Kaiser Permanente. Kaiser Permanente is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract.

For additional details, please contact Stacy Green at 678-553-6549.

Volunteer Soccer Coaches Needed

2010-03-11T16:57:00.002-05:00

Decatur Active Living needs youth soccer coaches for teams for 8-9 and 10-11 year olds. The season has already begun. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Lindsey Struck at 678-553-6550 or Lee Williams at 678-553-6551. There is a free t-shirt involved! There is a one hour practice once a week, and a one hour game on Saturdays.

Our Biggest Children's Event of the Year: Touch-a-Truck on March 20th

2010-03-11T16:13:00.006-05:00

Come join Decatur Active Living on Saturday, March 20th for the annual "Touch-a-Truck" event. This free community event gives children of all ages a chance to touch, explore and see their favorite truck or equipment on wheels. The City of Decatur fire truck, dump trucks, tractors, police cars, motorcycles, bicycles and many other vehicles will be on display.

Location: Calloway Building Parking Lot, 120 West Trinity Place
When: Saturday, March 20, 2010
Time: 10:00am-1:00pm

For more information, please contact Greg White at 678-553-6543.

Chick-fil-A www.worldgamesus.org

2010-03-11T15:18:00.006-05:00

http://www.worldgamesus.org/

GREAT AMATEUR TOURNAMENTS - COMPETE AND WIN PRIZES!
Get your team together, select your sport below then signup for some great amateur competitionApril 17, 2010 at the Kennesaw State University Owls Nest Sport & Recreation Fields

3 vs. 3 SOCCER
ADULT(No age requirement)
Men
Women
YOUTH
High School Boys (9th grade through 12th grade)
High School Girls (9th grade through 12th grade)
Middle School Boys (6th grade through 8th grade)
Middle School Girls (6th grade through 8th grade)

DODGEBALL
ADULT(No age requirement)
Competitive Men (Professional)
Recreational Men (Amateur)
Recreational Co-Ed (3 Men & 3 Women)
YOUTH
High School Boys (9th grade through 12th grade)
Middle School Boys (6th grade through 8th grade)
4th & 5th Grade Co-ed (Boys or Girls)

Decatur Active Living Advisory Board Survey

2010-03-10T15:58:00.003-05:00

In an effort to make Decatur one of the most active cities in the country, the Decatur Active Living Advisory Board has created a survey to see what activities interest you or what the City of Decatur can do to make becoming an active member of the community easier for you and your family. Please take a few moments to complete the survey by clicking on the link in the right hand column of this blog.

Georgia State Parks Spring Events

2010-03-09T14:37:00.002-05:00

www.georgiastateparks.org
Tight finances don’t mean you have to give up a spring break vacation. Families that plan ahead can take advantage of affordable accommodations located throughout Georgia’s 48 state parks. For about $24 per night, you can pitch a tent under the stars and toast marshmallows by a cozy campfire. All of our campgrounds have bathhouses with hot showers, and some even have laundry facilities.
Want more comforts? Fully equipped cottages with up to three bedrooms average around $100 to $140 per night, depending on park location. Save money by cooking your own meals in your private kitchen. Finally, those who prefer hotel-style accommodations can still wake up surrounded by beautiful park scenery. Lodges with restaurants can be found at Amicalola Falls, Red Top Mountain, George T. Bagby, Little Ocmulgee and Unicoi state parks. Lodge rates begin at $69.
State parks are like mini-resorts, with a wide range of amenities such as nature trails, playgrounds, fishing docks, ranger programs, disc golf and more. Keep in mind that accommodations book quickly during spring break and summer, so reservations should be made in advance. Call 1-800-864-7275 or www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/springbreak.

METRO ATLANTA

Rawhide to Leather
Saturday, March 6, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn the process of making leather with this hands-on interactive demonstration. The program will cover tools, techniques and preparations for tanning, fleshing hides, and tricks of the trade. Meeting at the nature center. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Introduction to Flyfishing
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join an expert angler and learn about the art of flycasting. Poles will be provided for the class, or anglers can bring their own tackle. In case of inclement weather the class will be held indoors. Pre-registration is required. This class will be limited to 10 participants, class will be geared toward 7 years and up. Meet near the Sweetwater Creek Baitshop. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Backcountry Geology Hike
Saturday, March 13, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Geologist and Friends member John Johnston will lead a moderate three-mile hike identifying rock types and explaining how they formed. Explore the beautiful Jack's Branch area and the seldom-visited rock quarry of New Manchester. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Lost Person Prevention
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn simple techniques for not getting lost and keeping track of your family when venturing into the great outdoors of Georgia. Search and Rescue Dog Team will be joining the class. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
The two-hour clinic covers equipment, knot tying, casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the “Fish of Fish.” Instructors C. H. Brown and Michael Reilley suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Mountain Top Adventure Hike
Sunday, March 14, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as a ranger explains why the mountain is protected and what we can do to preserve granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray and your camera. Rain or shine. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Saturday Mountain Hike
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows park visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as the Ranger explains the reasons Panola Mountain is protected, and what we can all do to preserve the natural beauty of granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and your camera! The Panola Mountain hike starts at 10am and generally lasts 3-4 hours. Rain or shine. Call to register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Hills of Iron
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge - Cartersville
Join us for our annual celebration of the iron industry that gave Red Top Mountain its name. You can take a hayride tour of the iron mine area, pay a visit to a nearby iron furnace, and end the day by creating a piece of unique iron artwork when we smelt iron in our cupola furnace known as "Maryanne." Fee for iron molds, plus $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.

Artifact Identification Day
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville
A professional archaeologist will be available to date and identify artifacts brought in by visitors. $3.50-$5. (770) 387-3747.

Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb
Saturday, March 20, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us "on rope" for an adventure exploring the canopy above. This is an introductory climb to Canopy-Adventure-Research-Educational Technical Tree Climbing (CARE TTC). Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Let’s Go Fly A Kite
Sunday, March 21, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
With spring just around the corner, the piedmont rolling hills and grass lands will soon be alive with the sound of whooping and squealing as mom and dad get their children's kits air born. Pleas join us for this family tradition at Panola Mountain's Alexander Lake Recreational Area. Pleas bring kites, if you do not have one call us. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Early Spring Wildflower Hike
Sunday, March 21 and 28, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This 2-mile ranger-led hike will be moderately strenuous and will pass through a variety of wildflower habitats and beautiful areas. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5876.

Mountain Bike Adventures
Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join the Southern Bicycle League at the Rockdale River Trail parking area by Alexander Lakes for an off-road adventure. This ride will take you to scenic vistas, wetland complexes and pine savannah. Covers most of Panola Mountain's property; both dirt and paved trails. Meeting at the Alexander Lake Parking Area. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Reptile Show
Saturday, March 27, 1 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join "Reptile Wranglers" Ken Panse and Zack Panse with their alligator, snakes and turtles for this exciting, fascinating, and educational program. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

“Ruins to Rapids” Full Moon Hike
Saturday, March 27, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia SpringsThis 1.5-mile ranger-led night hike is moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester and follows the lovely rapids (up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. No children under 6 or dogs. Meet inside the Visitor Center. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Child-seat checks to be held in Decatur

2010-03-08T17:15:00.000-05:00

From the AJC:

Child-seat checks to be held in Decatur

Members of the Decatur Fire Department will be on hand later this month to make sure child car-seats are properly installed.
Technicians will check the seats before and after the city’s annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 27.

They will do the tests from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. that Saturday in the parking lot of the Callaway building, 120 W. Trinity Pl.

Technicians also are available between 1 and 6 p.m. daily at the city’s two fire stations, on East Trinity Place near downtown and West Hill Street in Oakhurst.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle - Benefits of Daily Exercise

2010-03-08T11:58:00.002-05:00

From America on the Move:

Benefits of Daily Exercise

A healthy lifestyle includes eating a balanced diet and incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Being physically active can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. For many of these chronic diseases, diet and exercise are each listed as modifiable independent risk factors. What this means is that both diet and exercise are required elements of a healthful lifestyle. Developing a healthful eating plan without considering your activity level or initiating an exercise program without taking your diet into consideration isn't as preventative as including both as part of your healthful lifestyle plan. Exercise is also great for reducing stress and contributing to your emotional well-being.

Health benefits associated with physical activity:
-Lowering LDL "bad" cholesterol and raising HDL "good" cholesterol—Regular exercise has been shown to elevate HDL-c levels and, in combination with a low-saturated fat and low-cholesterol diet, improve the overall blood cholesterol profile.

-Lowering blood pressure—Exercise can help lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. Elevated blood pressure is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease. Aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 8 to 10 mm Hg.

-Reducing excess weight—Obesity, which is a major contributor to the development and maintenance of the diabetic state, is directly affected by exercise. Exercise lowers body adiposity and, in combination with a weight-loss program, will accelerate fat loss and maintain lean body mass. If you're overweight, losing just 5-10% of your total body weight can minimize the associated health risks.

-Achieving and maintaining good blood glucose control—Moderate exercise is recommended in the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes. Increased physical activity can improve glucose uptake in the cells by increasing insulin sensitivity. Exercise is also beneficial in normalizing the altered blood cholesterol profiles associated with Type 2 diabetes.

-Increased energy levels and reduced stress—Active individuals, as compared to sedentary individuals, are more likely to be better adjusted, have improved cognitive function, and experience fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Exercise also improves one's energy levels, self-confidence, and self-esteem.

-Strengthening bones and toning muscles—Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, or aerobics, is an essential ingredient for achieving and maintaining an adequate bone density. Studies indicate that women who walk at least seven miles per week have higher bone density than women who walk less than one mile per week. Since the effects of exercise on bone integrity are site-specific, it is recommended to do a variety of weight-bearing exercises.

Adapted from an article by Michele M. Doucette, PhD

Decatur Earth Day on Facebook

2010-03-05T17:00:00.000-05:00

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Decatur-GA/Earth-Day-in-Decatur/335038253654

News & Notes

2010-03-05T15:50:00.002-05:00

Touch a Truck Day
Come out and join the fun at Decatur’s annual Touch a Truck Day on Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The event has been so popular and drawn such a crowd that it has been moved to the Callaway building parking lot, 120 W. Trinity Place.

Children of all ages can see, touch, and explore their favorite truck or equipment on wheels. A
City of Decatur fi re truck, dump trucks, tractors, police cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and many other vehicles will be on display. For information, please contact Greg White, 404-377-0494, or
greg.white@decaturga.com.

New Date for Georgia Rides to the Capitol – March 23
On March 23, the Metro Atlanta Mayor Association (MAMA) will co-sponsor the fifth annual Georgia Rides to the Capitol. The bicycle ride has routes departing from Roswell and Decatur and culminates in a press conference on the Capitol steps.
Decatur’s route is five miles one way, with some hills, and is ridden at a slow pace. It begins at the north parking lot of the East Lake MARTA rail station. Novice and family (and even intermediate) cyclists are encouraged to ride the Decatur route. The ride is free and open to the community. Detailed information about route, time, and pre-registration can be found at www.georgiaridestothecapitol.org.

TOUR deCATUR Returns March 13
Join friends and neighbors on Saturday, March 13, for the eighth annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race featuring a 5k course, a 1-mile fun run and a tot trot.
This year the course will start and finish at the new Decatur High School Performing Arts Center. Proceeds support the Decatur Education Foundation, which helps turn great ideas into programs that make a difference in the lives of children and youth in the community. To register or learn more, visit www.tourdecatur.com.

ING Georgia Marathon Returns March 21
New Cheering Section will be held on the square The ING Georgia Marathon will come through our city on Sunday, March 21, and Decatur invites you to participate as a hydration
and/or cheering volunteer. As the marathon organizers say, “Volunteers are the heart and SOLE of the marathon.”
Hydration Station Volunteers
Volunteers are needed to staff two Hydration Stations, one at the East Lake MARTA station and one in downtown Decatur. Your duties will be to hand out water to the runners and to cheer them on. To volunteer for the Hydration Stations go to www.doitsports.com/volunteer/join-protected-group.tcl?event_id=174848.
Choose either City of Decatur (for the station on Clairemont by the Holiday Inn) or City of Decatur/Oakhurst (for the station near the East Lake MARTA Station). The password is COD.
You can also access this link by clicking on the Volunteers tab under Additional Resources on the ING Georgia Marathon website. From there, you will see a link to join our volunteer group.
Cheering Station Volunteers
Volunteers are needed at the official cheering station on Ponce de Leon adjacent to the Old Courthouse Square and should arrive at 7:30 a.m. on March 21 to help cheer the runners on. In 2007, the City of Decatur won $10,000 for the Best Cheering Station and in 2008 we won $5,000 for the second best station. We want to reclaim our #1 title – so don your orange clothes and come out with a noise maker, signage, and/or a musical instrument. Let’s make noise so the runners remember our city. Runners will vote for their favorite Hydration Stations and their
favorite Cheering Section so we want them to remember us. Prize money will go towards the city’s new walking program, “Walk There, Decatur!” For more information on the marathon, contact Cheryl.Burnette@decaturga.com or 678-553-6573.

Internet Safety Event
Thursday, April 1 • 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Decatur High School Auditorium
Free childcare – registration information below
The City Schools of Decatur, in partnership with Decatur Children and Youth Services, invites all parents and community members to attend a program titled “Internet Safety and Social Networking in the Digital Age.” Hoke Wilcox, Ed.S., an instructional technology specialist from the Educational Technology Center at Kennesaw University, will lead the program.
Parents who attend will receive a book provided by the federal government called Net Cetera: Chatting With Kids About Being Online. The book gives adults practical tips to help kids navigate
the online world.
The event also features City Schools of Decatur media/instructional technology specialists who will be at kiosks to share with parents the online resources their staff and students use daily. They subscribe to such services as NetTrekker, World Book Online, and others providing a safe, efficient, reliable way to conduct online research. Their subscriptions are available to families at home through use of passwords provided by the schools.
Free childcare for school-age children will be provided by Decatur Children and Youth Services. To reserve a space for childcare, RSVP to Heather Borowski, Instructional Technology coordinator for City Schools of Decatur, hborowski@csdecatur.net, or 404-370-3848 ext. 17.

Decatur Table Tennis' Charlie Slater in Decatur Focus

2010-03-05T15:47:00.002-05:00

http://www.decaturga.com/client_resources/cgs/citysvcs/ced/focusarchive2010/pdfs/focus_march-2010sm.pdf

Page 15

More on Safe Routes to School

2010-03-05T15:23:00.001-05:00

Facts, tips, and information on Safe Routes to School:

"Fun. Children enjoy spending time with their friends. When walking in groups, children of different ages can mix and, once established, walking can build team spirit. Many children choose active transportation, such as walking or cycling, if they are given a choice."

"Safe. Stranger abductions are extremely rare. The more “eyes on the street” the safer it is for everyone. More walkers mean fewer cars and less congestion which again makes it safer for everyone. Cars actually drive slower when there are large numbers of people walking."

"Friendly. Walking in your neighborhood promotes a sense of community. Explore your neighborhood. Get to know your neighbors. Feel connected. At Soquel Elementary School in Santa Cruz, organizers found that a “Walk and Wave” week, where children waved as a friendly gesture to motorists, had a calming effect on traffic."

"Good for Your Brain. Being outdoors is an opportunity for fresh air and light. Children’s senses are stimulated which can inspire different thoughts and ideas—a refreshing change from having their attention focused in closed areas."

Calender:
April 22 - Earth Day
April 25 - May 3: Safe Kids Week
March 23 - Georgia Rides to the Capitol
May - National Bike Month
May 17-21 - Bicycle Safety Week
October 6 - International Walk to School Day

SRTS News: Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign
On February 9th, First Lady Michelle Obama announced her Let’s Move initiative which is designed to solve the problem of childhood obesity in a generation. During her speech at the White House, she spoke about children walking to school and riding bikes. Increasing physical activity is a cornerstone of her initiative, check it out! http://www.letsmove.gov/

Webinar Spotlight: What Does it Take to Get Drivers to Yield? Engineering Measures that Work Tue, Mar 30, 2010 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT

One of the greatest challenges for many schools and neighborhoods is finding the appropriate measures to slow traffic in the areas where pedestrians cross the street. Which devices will be most effective? What are the costs? What are the maintenance requirements? Are there liability issues?

In this 60 minute webinar, engineering experts Charlie Zegeer and Mike Cynecki will share their extensive knowledge and understanding of pedestrian safety and traffic control devices to address these questions. They will discuss innovative devices and the latest research on their effectiveness as well as more standard devices and their appropriate use. To sign-up for this free webinar visit: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/728334985

--

www.SafeRoutesGA.org

Georgia Master Naturalist Classes

2010-03-05T11:38:00.000-05:00

Georgia Master Naturalist Classes

2nd Tuesday of Month 9 AM - 4 PM from Mar 9, 2010 until Aug 10, 2010

The Georgia Master Naturalist program is a hands-on environmental education program that explores habitats and ecosystems in Georgia. This program is combination of lectures and outside hands-on learning through field studies and relevant resource materials. After completing this fun and interactive program, the Georgia Master Naturalists are encouraged to share their knowledge with their communities by volunteering in local schools or nature centers. $ For more information on this certification program visit http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/faculty/html/mengak/gmnp.html. Currently offered once a month

Coach Wilson

2010-03-05T10:50:00.007-05:00

Decatur Active Living staff congratulates Coach Carter Wilson for a spectacular career as the coach of the Decatur High School Boys Basketball team!

Click HERE for article from The Champion Newspaper

See article below from the Decatur Bulldog Booster Club Newsletter:

Carter Wilson Era Officially Comes To An End

Great Decatur Fan Turnout Not Enough as Callaway Eliminates Bulldogs 55-45
Several hours after his last game ever as a varsity head Coach, and after the team bus had returned from Hogansville, Carter Wilson gathered his team together inside the home locker at the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center and Gymnasium, a building that he, in no small part, is responsible for getting built.We first met Wilson 29 years ago as Bob Reinhart's fuzzy-cheek assistant. But we've really gotten to know him better the last three years, as we've been privileged to talk with him on a regular basis, while observing his first-rate teaching both up close and from afar. On Wednesday night, after a very tough 55-45 loss to a very good Callaway team, he gave what was surely the most moving speech of his career."This is not the way we wanted it to end," he told his players. "Yet to me you are, and always will be, champions. We did not get the final championship we wanted, and because of that, this is going to hurt for a few days. But never forget what you did. You practiced six and sometimes seven days a week since October. You wind up, in this historic season, in the first season of this new gym, going 22-6, and primarily because of you we've had the best fan support Decatur's ever seen in recent times. For that, and many other reasons, beginning tonight, tomorrow, and from here on, you must hold your heads up like the champions you are. I for one am very proud to be going out with the class of 2010."Perhaps, of course, the best words are born of pain. And make no mistake the Callaway loss was painful on many levels. From our personal aesthetic view, it was painful that Wilson had to coach his final game in such a junky, haphazard venue as the Callaway gym: no P.A., a half-functioning scoreboard, and gory, tar-like splotches dotting the bleachers. This was no place for an important state playoff game to be staged, much less the curtain closer to an outstanding coaching career.But the truth is, whether the game was played in Callaway, Decatur or Timbuktu, the best team won on this night. First-year coach Greg Moultrie burned the midnight oil doing his homework, and there are three examples that come immediately to mind:*He played a box-and-one most of the night, with one man guarding leading scorer Trumon Jefferson, while the other four played an accordion-like 2-2 zone, always ready to collapse on 6-6 Nic Wilson. For Decatur this was nothing new, having seen this configuration previously, three times from Blessed Trinity and once from Lovett.
"I can't remember a season where I've seen so many so-called 'junk defenses'," Carter Wilson said. "I say 'so-called' because they were anything but junk against us. Every time we faced one of those defenses, it was tough for us to score."Moultrie's game plan worked to perfection. Nic was held to 11 points, while Trumon had 12 on just three field goals. "The box and one is hard," Trumon said later, on the bus ride home. "And the guys they put on me were tough. But I can do better, I can work harder to get open, to find my spaces. That's what you have to do in a box-and-one, you have to work harder to get open away from the ball, and I didn't do that tonight."*Contrary to reputation, Callaway didn't play an unfettered full-court offense. Matter of fact there were plenty of times the home team ran half-court sets and even took their time doing so."When we got the lead in the fourth quarter," Moultrie said laughing, "I decided to do that Decatur thing. Listen, I know about Coach Wilson. He's been successful for a reason. I told our guys to slow down, run the clock and no shots unless you're in the paint."The result was that 6-2 senior post Chris Laye had one of his biggest nights of the season, scoring 24 points, most of those (with two major exceptions) coming right around the basket.*Again, contrary to reputation, Callaway did not press for 32 minutes. In fact, for only the second time this season, it didn't press at all."I didn't think a press would bother Coach Wilson much," Moultrie said. "Besides, I figured they'd been working against [the press] all week in practice, so I decided to show 'em something different by not using it. It's kind of like, you show the left, but hit 'em with the right."What he left unsaid is that it's nearly impossible playing an effective box-and-one when you press. On this night Moultrie determined that a sound, half-court defense was his ticket, a decision Carter Wilson definitely appreciated."Moultrie's gonna be a good one," he said. "Well, he already is a good one. I told him after the game to make sure he appreciates these moments. I told him to even keep a record or diary of it, because it's all so fleeting."Wednesday's game certainly opened at a fast pace, with four lead changes alone in the first quarter, which appropriately ended at a 17-17 deadlock. But when Moultrie switched to box-and-one (after opening first in a 2-3 zone and then, briefly, a straight man-to-man) he changed both the tempo and tenor of this game.After Decatur point Shaq Baker hit a three pointer with 1:16 left in the first (Decatur's only three all night) Decatur led 17-15, but wouldn't score again for nearly seven minutes. For Decatur, during this stretch, the box-and-one proved an unsolvable riddle, as Trumon barely saw any touches. "On our team we have what we call a 'three-stop rule,'" Moultrie said. "In other words, every run starts with at least three consecutive defensive stops. And that's what we got in that second quarter. Actually, many more than three. It turned the game around."Callaway scored 10 points during that seven-minute span to take a 25-17 lead, and eventually led 27-20 at halftime. At this point more Decatur fans arrived, adding to the already impressive corps making the 90-minute drive to Hogansville.Many had to wonder if they'd entered the twilight zone. The clock behind one basket had, eerily, no hands, something that's considered very bad karma on at least five continents. Also, several people (including our own daughter) told us how, once they hit the Callaway campus, their cell phones made an enigmatic leap one hour backwards, thus displaying Central Time, which is definitely considered bad karma on every spot of the globe except possibly Alabama.But none of this compared to the halftime show. There was no band, no cheerleaders, no dancing team, no politicians, no fried chicken, but simply a parade of young men marching on the court to launch one mid-court shot after another. Believe me when we report here, balls were flying everyplace, slamming off every available surface including that clock with no hands.
It looked like some bizarre Druid ritual. But in the end, all the half-court shots proved prophetic.Decatur responded to its reinvigorated fan support and quickly erased the seven-point deficit. When Dujon Parker followed in a missed rebound, Decatur lead 30-29 with 3:50 left in the third. For the next two minutes the game tugged back and forth with unbearable tension, but then came single most decisive sequence of this night.With 1:20 left in the third, Decatur trailed 34-32 and was in-bounding under its own basket. The official handed the ball to Trumon, who promptly found Nic open for an easy lay-in to tie the game. Except, another official was conversing at the scorer's table (site for the non-existing P.A.), and this official ruled, we think, that the clock hadn't started therefore voiding the play. Much like the conclusion to the 1972 Russia-USA Olympic basketball championship, the play was re-played, and as for the US that year (where there were actually several replays), it proved a disaster. This time Decatur turned it over, Callaway's Laye hit a short turnaround jumper and with 1:14 left the home team had a 36-32 lead.
Late in the quarter, Dujon scored inside again, making it 36-34, and with time expiring Callaway raced down floor. Back in the first quarter Laye had made a long, awkward-looking two-handed three-pointer - that sort of looked like a bench press - the kind of shot that actually goes in on alternating Wednesdays. But here, with time expiring in the third, he outdid himself. As the buzzer sounded he jumped off one leg and launched a parabola from mid-court - reminiscent, of course, the halftime show - except this one was a perfect swish. End of three, Callaway now led 39-34.
"A devastating shot," said Carter Wilson. "A dagger. It took all the momentum we earned in the whole third quarter and gave it back to them on one shot. Emotionally it was devastating, but it also changed the game strategically. At that point there's a big difference between [trailing by] two and five points."It was big because creating scores proved extremely difficult for Decatur, managing only 11 fourth-quarter points. About midway through, Wilson went to the fouling game which seemed precisely the right thing to do. Callaway only made 5 of 13 free throws all night, for 38 percent, and seemed perfectly vulnerable to this strategy. But the key to the fouling game, if your opposition makes only one foul shot, you've got to respond by hitting a field goal, thus trading one for two. Alas, Decatur couldn't pull this off. "You work your fouls in conjunction with your timeouts," Wilson said. "But you have to make shots, and we had trouble even getting shots. I'd have to check the film, but I think when we fouled at seven (the seventh team foul), eight and nine, we wound up making turnovers after [Callaway shot its] foul shots."Instead of closing the gap, Callaway widened matters, and the final score proved its largest margin.Callaway is now 20-7 and will advance to play an Elite Eight game against Jefferson (which beat Westminster 58-56 on Wednesday; Blessed Trinity was also eliminated, 66-57, by Spencer) Friday night in Dalton. Decatur, as mentioned, finishes at 22-6, and Wilson closes his head coaching career, which includes stints at Decatur, Tucker High, and Georgia State, with 352 wins total.
"I'll tell you something funny," he said late Wednesday, when he was finally alone in The Spike's home locker. "I've been through nights like this, elimination night, as a player, an assistant and a head coach, and it never gets any easier. I'm 56 years old, and it's just as hard now as it was 30 years ago. I ache quite a bit right now, but believe me, I ache more for those guys than I do myself. From day one of practice, they knew the last game of this season would also be my last game, and I could tell, from the beginning, they were playing for more than just themselves. That is something I will never forget."
"I think the most important thing about this season," he added, "is that we put Decatur basketball back on the map. Don't get me wrong, we've always had a great program, good players, and good fan support. But this season we stepped it up big time. Just look at that crowd that came out here Friday (against Chattooga]. That was unbelievable, something to remember, but also something to build on."

Mar 13 - Need Volunteers for 8th Annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race

2010-03-04T12:25:00.002-05:00

The Decatur Education Foundation Needs YOUR HELP!

Please consider volunteering at the 8th Annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race on Saturday, March 13. This is a fun and easy way to support the Foundation as it raises money to support the children in our school system.

Visit www.tourdecatur.com for information about the event.

We need many hands to pull this off and you will be done by 11am!

Please email Claire McCarty at: cmccarty@csdecatur.net if you can give us a few hours on Saturday, March 13. We are expecting 1200 runners this year and need to be sure that everything continues to run smoothly.

For our children & youth,

Gail Rothman

Executive Director

Decatur Education Foundation

315 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue

Suite 770

Decatur, GA 30030

404-377-0641

The mission of the Decatur Education Foundation is to nurture and promote academic achievement and enrichment opportunities for all the children and youth of Decatur, Georgia.

A Very Cold but Fun Georgia Walk/Bike to School Day!

2010-03-03T12:09:00.010-05:00

Brrr...it was a very cold morning, but that didn't stop a better than expected number of students and parents from walking and biking to school today! Below are photo's from Oakhurst Elementary. Decatur Active Living staff and volunteers will be at Clairemont, Oakhurst, Winnona Park and Glennwood again this afternoon. Thanks to y'all students and parents for participating today for the 1st ever official Georgia Walk/Bike to School Day!! And ask DAL's Greg White for a cool new Decatur SRTS pencil.

P.S. Decatur Active Living staff members were at work at 5:20 am today preparing for the event, a big thanks to them!

More info. at:
http://www.saferoutesga.org/Happening/Events
http://www.dot.state.ga.us/LOCALGOVERNMENT/FundingPrograms/srts/Pages/FAQs.aspx

Patricia Moncure, a Decatur Safe Routes to School parent Volunteer, and her children

Michael Orta, a SRTS Parent Volunteer, and his son Daniel