DeKalb Co. Youth Cross Country - Registration Still Open

DeKalb County Parks & Recreation Youth Cross Country

UPDATE: Registrations still being accepted!

Registration Fee (includes long-sleeved t-shirt): $30

Race 1: October 4

Race 2: October 11

3rd Annual 5K Run/Walk & 1600m Walk: October 18

Race 3: November 8 County Meet: November 15

The age bracket/distance is as follows:

Ages 5-6: 800m (1/2 mile)

Ages 7-8: 1200m (3/4 mile)

Ages 9-10: 1600m (1 mile)

Ages 11-12: 3200m (2 miles)

Ages 12-14: 2.5 miles

Ages 15 and up: 3.1 miles

For more information, please contact Innocent Egbunike, 678-937-8926.

(At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, competing for Nigeria, Innocent Egbunike won a bronze medal in the 4x400m relay, and finished in 6th place in the 400m).

DAL Staff Member Recognized by Georgia Gerontology Society

Chris Lewis, Asst. Program Coordinator for Decatur Active Living, who specializes in programs for city residents 50 yrs old and over, was recently recognized by the Georgia Gerontology Society with a Citation of Merit: "The Georgia Gerontology Society annually acknowledges the outstanding achievements of individuals in the field of Gerontology through the presentations of awards during its annual meeting and conference." Congrats to Chris!

Here are some other articles regarding Decatur Active Living:

http://championnewspaper.com/images/Newcomers09.pdf

(pdf page 8/page 6 of the actual publication)

http://godekalb.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7755&Itemid=2131

ABC's Bike Count 2008/Bike Emory Mtg.

Atlanta Bicycle Campaign

Improve Our Roads - Volunteer for Bike Count 2008
In order to better track greater Atlanta's progress in making it safer and easier to ride a bike, Atlanta Bike Campaign launched an ongoing data collection effort to count bicycle traffic. You can improve the roads for cyclists by volunteering to help with our bicycle counts!

Volunteers can sign up for one or more 2-hour time slots on a weekday. Volunteers are asked to enter their data into an online spreadsheet within 3 days of taking the counts. Count data will be released to the media.

Dates: Tuesday (9/30) and Thursday (10/2)
Times: (2 shift opportunities) : 7:00 - 9:00 am & 4:30 - 6:30 pm.
Brief training is required.

For details and to register please visit the ABC Bike Count Page HERE.

---

Bike Emory Meeting
When: October 15th, 2008 - @ 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Location: DUC Room 363

Summary: Bike Emory is looking for people with a passion for cycling who want to make a difference.We are seeking cyclists who want to help improve cycling conditions, lead group rides and more. If you want to get involved with making Emory and the surrounding community a world class place to bike, we want to meet you.
Full Details: Bike Emory is looking for people with a passion for cycling who want to make a difference.We are seeking cyclists who want to help improve cycling conditions, lead group rides and more. If you want to get involved with making Emory and the surrounding community a world class place to bike, we want to meet you. Bike Emory meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the DUC.Refreshments and snacks will be served. Planning to come? Drop us a line at info@bike.emory.edu.

This Weekend

This weekend, don't forget the Decatur Garden Tour, http://www.decaturgardentour.com/, and the last Saturday night Concert on the Square of the season, from 7 to 9 pm!

The garden tour is a great opportunity for some exercise while enjoying the city's best gardens. For the Saturday concert, consider walking or biking down to the square.

Walk-Bike to School Day & Pep Rally!!!

Please join us on Tuesday, Oct. 7th at the Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St., for the city's 1st ever "Walk-Bike to School Day Pep Rally", with celebrities, prizes, entertainment and more. The following day, Wednesday, Oct. 8th, is International Walk-Bike to School Day. Students and parents, please consider walking or biking to school that day.

Here are some reasons from www.walktoschool-usa.org to support walking and biking to school:

To enhance the health of kids - Increased physical activity can combat a host of health problems facing kids today.
To improve air quality and the environment - Replacing car trips to school with walking or bicycling can help reduce air pollution.
To create safer routes for walking and bicycling - Sidewalks, education programs and traffic calming measures are some of the ways to improve conditions.

Plus, it's a nice way for parents to spend time with their children, and to say hello to neighbors on the way. Please join us on the 7th & 8th!

HOOP IT UP!

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

Please contact Stacy Green, 678-553-6549 or Lindsey Struck, 678-553-6550 for more information. Volunteer coaches, 18 yrs and older, are needed.

2008 Atlanta Falcons Community Quarterback Award

Decatur Active Living would like to thank the Atlanta Falcons for making donations and grant awards to the program throughout the years.

2008 Atlanta Falcons Community Quarterback Award

The Atlanta Falcons are pleased to announce the criteria for the 2008 Community Quarterback Award. The Atlanta Falcons Community Quarterback Award honors volunteers in Georgia (ages 13 and over) who exemplify leadership and dedication to bettering their communities. Many organizations rely on quality volunteers to create and facilitate programs that benefit many lives throughout the state of Georgia. The Community Quarterback award is designed to recognize and reward these volunteers.

Nomination forms must be completed with all required information and returned to: Kyla Clark, Community Relations Coordinator, Atlanta Falcons, 4400 Falcon Pkwy, Flowery Branch, GA, 30542 postmarked by October 13, 2008. You can also fax a nomination form to 770-965-3185, ATTN: Community Quarterback Award or email kclark@falcons.nfl.com by 5pm, October 13, 2008. Please submit one nomination form per person. Individuals can nominate themselves or others for the 2008 Community Quarterback Award. Winners will receive tickets to a 2008 Falcons home game where they will be recognized and a $2,000 grant will be awarded to the organization that they serve. All organizations must be an official 501 (c) (3) and nominated individuals may not receive compensation for their services.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Thanks,
Kyla Clark
Community Relations Coordinator
Atlanta Falcons
4400 Falcons Parkway
Flowery Branch, GA 30542
770-965-2762 (office)
770-965-3185 (fax)

October 20 - Red Hatters High Tea

Ladies, please join the Decatur Red Hatters for "High Tea at the Solarium", on Tuesday, October 28th, from 10 am to 2 pm.

The Red Hatters is a group of active, vibrant ladies who meet monthly at the Decatur Recreation Center for trips, lunch, etc.

The "High Tea" event will include a fashion show, live entertianment and a pot luck lunch.

For more information, please contact Chris Lewis at: Chris.Lewis@decaturga.com or 678-553-6547.

Sept 27 - Concert on the Square/DeKalb Co. Movie at the Park

Don't forget the last Saturday night Concert on the Square of the season!

7 to 9:30 pm, Saturday, September 27th, featuring Farmland Band, local bluegrass. Co-sponsored by The Artisan.

Pack your picnic, bring your quilts and blankets and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment. Brought to you by the Decatur Business Association and Wachovia Bank of Georgia.

DeKalb County Parks & Recreation is sponsoring a Movie Night for Commission District 2 Residents this Saturday at Dellwood Park (corner of Ponce de Leon & Clifton Rd., just outside the city limits).

Disney's "Remember the Titans"

7 pm, Saturday, Sept. 27th, Dellwood Park (located at corner of Ponce de Leon and Clifton Road, use Google Maps for easy directions) Fun for the whole family. Enjoy movie night in Dellwood Park on Saturday, September 27th at 7pm. Movie to start at 7:30pm. Parking at Cator Woolford Gardens or Fernbank Natural History Museum.

Sept 27 - Curious about Critters Insect Tour

(The Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve is beautiful 28 acre wildlife sanctuary just a mile or two outside the city limits, a block away from Medlock Elementary School. It's a nice, quiet place for a walk or short run. For birdwatchers, over 150 kinds of birds have been spotted there.)

CURIOUS ABOUT CRITTERS INSECT TOUR
CLYDE SHEPHERD NATURE PRESERVE
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2008
10:00 – 11:30 am

Are you curious about the critters that lurk among the grass and trees?
Join entomologist Dr. Fred Sherberger for some catch and release critter collecting at the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve. Come search for insects and spiders that inhabit this beautiful wetland area. Bring a clean jar, with a lid, to show your finds to everyone! Please include the number of people in your group as space is limited. Cost is $3 per person and includes light refreshments.
Please reserve your spot(s) at : info@cshepherdpreserve.org by Thursday, September 25th. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Directions: To get to the Nature Preserve in North Decatur take Medlock Road to Medlock Elementary School. Turn Right onto Wood Trail Lane and follow to the preserve entrance. For complete directions and for more information, visit www.cshepherdpreserve.org.

www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/Leafwatch & Other Metro Area Events

State Park System’s “Leaf Watch” Encourages Leaf Watchers Across Georgia
Online Leaf Tracking Starts October 1

www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/Leafwatch
ATLANTA, GA (September 22, 2008) – In just a few weeks, Georgia’s forests will turn into a brilliant blanket of red, orange and gold, inspiring leaf peepers to pull out their cameras and lace up their hiking boots. To help track the changing leaves and plan autumn escapes, Georgia’s State Parks will launch Leaf Watch 2008 beginning October 1 at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.

Whether traveling to the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and biking, or heading south for canoeing and camping, Leaf Watch 2008 will offer advice on where and when to find the best color at Georgia’s state parks. Visitors can read regular updates provided by park rangers, get safety tips for hiking and camping, and learn why leaves change color. Last-minute availability for campsites, cottages and lodge rooms at the state parks will be posted, in addition to a Webcam showcasing the rolling mountainside of Black Rock Mountain State Park near Dillard.

Typically, northern Georgia peaks in late October; however, color can be seen as early as September and as late as mid-November. Some parks in southern Georgia put on a pretty display during late autumn, particularly those with cypress trees and tea-colored swamps.

“North Georgia’s mountains are a spectacular place to see Mother Nature’s handiwork, and our state parks attract visitors from all over the Southeast,” said State Park Director Becky Kelley, “But I like to remind people that southern Georgia has some beautiful fall color as well. Cypress and tupelo trees found in parks such as Reed Bingham, George L. Smith and Stephen C. Foster sometimes turn brilliant orange toward the end of the season.”

Of Georgia’s 48 state parks, six of the most popular for leaf watching include Amicalola Falls, Black Rock Mountain, Cloudland Canyon, Tallulah Gorge, Unicoi and Vogel. For quieter getaways, visitors may want to explore lesser-known parks, which can be just as vibrant. Providence Canyon State Park, frequently called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” has hiking trails and unusual scenery. Watson Mill Bridge State Park, near Athens, boasts a scenic picnic area beside the state’s longest covered bridge. Beautiful hardwoods, boulders and creeks can be found on the 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail at F.D. Roosevelt State Park near Columbus.

Georgia has 63 state parks and historic sites, providing affordable “staycations” to its residents and a not-so-far-away mountain escape for Floridians. Park officials advise visitors to make overnight reservations as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for mountain cottages to be reserved 11 months in advance, and many campgrounds fill up early on pretty weekends. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or by going online at: www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.

October 2008 Events – Metro Atlanta

Saturday, October 4, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
Step back into ancient times as you walk along a torch-lit path and illuminated mounds. The 3/4-mile tour includes walking 134 steps to the top of 67-feet-high Mound A, the temple mound of the Etowah chief. $2.50-$4. (770) 387-3747.

Geology Day
Saturday, October 4, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join an expert in geology and Georgia’s native plants as we tour both Panola Mountain and Arabia Mountain. Register in advance. $5 plus $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Tree Top Excursions: Open Climb
Saturday, October 4, 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. We will be climbing near Lake Alexander. $10 plus $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.

The Battle of Allatoona Pass
Saturday, October 4 through Sunday October 5
Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge - Cartersville
Walk the trails, visit the Star Fort earthworks, and follow the old Tennessee Road
just as the soldiers did in 1864. Explore daily life in the tent city, see rifle and cannon demonstrations. This event is located at the Allatoona Pass Battlefield. $3 parking. 770-975-4226.

Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, October 11, 9:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
This 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.” Local 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. $7 - $10 plus $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Life on the Southern Homefront
Saturday, October 11, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site – Dallas
Gather the family and join us at our 1850s log cabin. Learn the ways pioneers settled this region and the lifelong struggles and hardships they had to endure. See open hearth cooking, farming practices and clothing styles. $1.75 - $3. (770) 443-7850.

Fall Color Half-Day Hike
Saturday, October 25, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Take this guided tour that encompasses several habitats, types of forests and granite outcrops during the peak fall color season in Georgia. Register in advance. $5 plus $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Advanced Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, October 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
This clinic is for graduates of our Basic Fly Fishing Clinic and Experienced Fly Fisherman call (prerequisite) and will focus on “On the Water Techniques.” We begin at the Rockdale River Trail parking and then head to the lake for instruction in advanced casting technique (Steeple Caste, Roll Cast, and Double-haul Casting), line mending, reading the water and entomology. $12-$15, plus $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Trees Atlanta Upcoming Programs

Trees Atlanta has quite a lineup over the next few weeks, including an event in Oakhurst with a 1.5 mile walk, a nice way to exercise while learning about Oakhurst's trees from the well know and respected Walter Reeves:

-Oakhurst Arboretum Walk, 1:00 p.m., October 12, 2008 -Join television, newspaper and radio personality, Walter Reeves, for a walk through the Oakhurst Arboretum, and learn about some of the trees offered at the 9th Annual Trees Atlanta Tree Sale. Walter will guide you on a 1.5 mile walk and will discuss the oaks and other unusual trees of Oakhurst. Meet at the home of Joy and Steve Provost, 228 Third Avenue, Decatur, GA 30030. Refreshments provided. Free for Trees Atlanta members, $25 for non-members. For more information, please contact Robby Astrove, robby@treesatlanta.org, 404-681-4901.

-Rain Barrel Class—October 11, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Light breakfast provided - Join Trees Atlanta to learn how to construct your own rain barrel. Participants will construct rain barrels which will be offered for sale to the public at the 2008 Trees Atlanta Tree Sale and will leave with hands-on knowledge of how to create their own rain barrel at home. All materials provided. For more information, please contact Robby Astrove, robby@treesatlanta.org, 404-681-4901.

-NeighborWoods Workshop, September 27, 2008 – 9 AM to 1 PM, Lunch provided - Celebrate National NeighborWoods Month by participating in Trees Atlanta’s NeighborWoods Workshop. Learn about planting large shade trees, canopy trends, tree values, and project leadership. Representatives from the National Alliance for Community Trees will discuss nationwide tree planting successes. Participants will also tour Trees Atlanta’s award winning “green” facility and demonstration plantings. For details and to RSVP, robby@treesatlanta.org, 404-681-4901, FREE

-TreeKeepers Volunteer Training, October 4, 11, 25 & November 1, 8, 15, 22 - 9 AM to Noon, Breakfast provided - TreeKeepers is a new Trees Atlanta’s certification program designed to increase volunteer knowledge and skills through specialized training and education about Atlanta ’s urban forest. Instructors will teach tree care, identification, as well as project leadership skills. The TreeKeepers certification program consists of 7 workshops, including indoor & outdoor activities, presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and assignments to be completed by the participants. Topics include Atlanta's trees & urban forests; tree planting, care, and pruning; tree diseases and invasive plants; and project leadership. Participants receive a training manual with supplemental reading and resources. Each graduate is expected to lead a project in the field and agrees to 24 total hours of assistance on other Trees Atlanta or tree related projects. To apply, please contact Robby Astrove, robby@treesatlanta.org, 404-681-4901, $55 per student

-Inman Park Arboretum Tree Walk, 6:00 p.m., October 4, 2008 - Join Trees Atlanta and the Inman Park Neighborhood for a fun and informative walk through the Inman Park Arboretum, and learn about some of the trees offered at the 9th Annual Trees Atlanta Tree Sale. Meet at the corner of Elizabeth Street and Austin Avenue for a 1.5 mile stroll through one of Atlanta's most historic in-town neighborhoods with Chris Hughes, Vice President of the Select Sustainable Tree Trust. Refreshments will be served at the home of Nancy Morrison following the walk. Please wear comfortable shoes. Free for Trees Atlanta members, $25 for non-members. For more information, please contact Robby Astrove, robby@treesatlanta.org, 404-681-4901.

-Tree Sale—October 12, 2008 - 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. Join Trees Atlanta for the 9th Annual Trees Atlanta Tree Sale in Piedmont Park (between Magnolia Hall and the tennis courts) and shop the largest selection of native and non-invasive exotic trees in the Southeast. More than 200 varieties and 1,000 trees and plants will be offered at the Tree Sale. Prices range from $8 to $150. Delivery and planting available within a limited area. Rain barrels and information on how to care for your trees with recycled water will be offered at the sale. Arrive early, most unusual trees sell out fast! All proceeds benefit Trees Atlanta's NeighborWoods Program through which volunteers plant and distribute more than 3,000 trees each year. For more information, please contact Greg Levine at 404-522-4097, greg@treesatlanta.org. List of available trees at www.treesatlanta.org.

-October - National NeighborWoods Month - During October, members of the Alliance for Community Trees (www.actrees.org) will engage volunteers across the nation in programs with the shared message that trees are essential to the health and livability of communities. Trees Atlanta’s events begin September 27 with a NeighborWoods Workshop and continue every weekend in October.

Oct 4th - 18th Annual Take Back the Night 5K Race and 1 mile Run/Walk

DeKalb Rape Crisis Center's
18th Annual Take Back the Night 5K Race and 1 mile Run/Walk

Saturday October 4, 2008
Historic Agnes Scott College
141 E. College Ave.


Registration is $15 until September 30th and $20 thereafter and includes a Take Back the Night long-sleeved T-shirt. Corporate, school, and community teams are welcome. WellCare is joining us, first aid supplies provided by DeKalb Medical Center, aerobic warm-ups provided by the Build-Train-Become Boot Camp.


Awards will be presented to the overall female and male winners, the overall masters' winner (age 40 and over) and the top three female and male winners of the 5K race in each of eleven age categories. Music, information, activities, and refreshments will follow the race for everyone involved. Other sponsors of this event include Deitch and Rogers LLC, AS Turner and Sons and Bella Lane Designs. There is ample parking available on the campus along with a sheltered area so you can join us rain or shine.


To register: Big Peach Running Company has our registration form, forms are available on our web www.dekalbrapecrisiscenter.org, or call the DeKalb Rape Crisis Center at 404-377-1429 ext 1 to have a form faxed to you, or register online at www.active.com. All event proceeds benefit the programs and services of Dekalb Rape Crisis Center which assist victims of rape and sexual assault and their loved ones.


Event Schedule
2:30pm - Registration
4:15pm - Aerobic Warm up
4:30pm - Fun run/walk5:00pm - 5K run
6:00pm Awards and Music

Decatur Garden Tour 2008

http://www.decaturgardentour.com/

What a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the city's finest gardens!

Volunteers are still needed.

Schedule of Events

Saturday, Sept. 27 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Evening Tour 7-9 p.m.)

Ongoing Plant Sale, Oakhurst Community Garden Docent Tours, Woodlands Garden Hardy native plant species for sale. Native plant garden in a woodland setting, EcoAddendum Native Plant Garden. Notecards and water for sale by the Winnona Park PTA, Winnona Park School garden.

10 a.m. - Children's Activities, meet in the parking lot of Woodlands Garden.

10:15 a.m. - A walk and talk with Ryan Gainey, "History of my Garden," meets on terrace of Ryan Gainey's garden.

11 a.m. - David Funderburk, ecologist, retired from Fernbank Science Center. "Piedmont Tree ID Walk and Talk," meets in parking lot of Woodlands Garden.

2 p.m. - Mozelle Funderburk, artist and museum exhibit fabricator. "Pencil Sketching in Nature," Contact ruby@decaturpreservationalliance.org for supply list. Meets in parking lot of Woodlands Garden.

Saturday, Sept. 27 • Evening Tour • 7-9 p.m.

Ongoing Twilight tour of Ryan Gainey's garden, with wine and music by Fionnuala, harp and wind duo, featuring Martha Temple and Lynda Anderson. EcoAddendum Evening in Pandra & Michael Williams's garden.

7-9 p.m. Music and wine in a woodland garden setting. Raffle featuring hard to find native plants and shrubs.

7:15 p.m. - Garden tour with Native Plant Specialist Connie Grayat Pandra at and Michael Williams Garden.

8:00 p.m. - Native plants media presentation with environmental artist Pandra Williams at Pandra and Michael Williams Garden.

8:45 p.m. - Raffle drawing at Pandra and Michael Williams Garden.

Sunday, Sept. 28 • noon-5 p.m.

Ongoing Plant Sale, Oakhurst Community GardenDocent Tours, Woodlands Garden Notecards and water for sale by the Winnona Park PTA, Winnona Park School garden.

1 p.m. - John Manion, Historic Gardens curator, Atlanta History Center. "The Wonderful World of Native Plants," meets at amphitheatre of Woodlands Garden.

2:30 p.m. - Kip Duchon, Public Health CDC. "Well Watering at Woodlands," meets at Pavilion of Woodlands Garden.

Decatur Active Living's Greg White!

Congratulations to Decatur Active Living Assistant Director Greg White, featured as The Champion Newspaper's "Champion of the Week"!

http://www.championnewspaper.com/images/Free_Press_060206.pdf

Gregory White
Champion of the Week

Sure, Gregory White, 47, of Stone Mountain, has done all the things you expect from an upstanding community leader – mentor kids, be active in his neighborhood church and volunteer on a regular basis.
But more than anything, White, the assistant director of Decatur Active Living, is proud of his role as the main promoter and keeper of the history of James “Red” Moore’s Negro Major League Baseball legacy.
“Red is the only living member of the Atlanta Black Crackers Negro League championship in 1938,” said White, who through tributes, exhibits and word-of-mouth promotions keeps Red’s accomplishments alive.
“He’s been honored by the Braves, Major League Baseball and featured in the USA Today recently.”
The father of three, but mentor to many, White said there is a crisis in the community, especially among young Black men losing their way. “Every adult has to become accountable – a lot of parents don’t want to be parents,” White said. “You have to put work into raising your kids.”
Part of the remedy, said White, is to give young Black men a place where they can get sound advice and counsel. So, White volunteered to be the youth minister at Hillcrest Church of Christ on Snapfinger Road. He organized a youth night to recognize children for their academic and religious studies.
He also warns kids about the dangers of HIV/AIDS, has kids volunteer on MLK Day and uses his pet albino rat snake Scarlet to teach kids about the environment.
“I have to be a model they [kids] can see,” said White, who is known in his Decatur office as the keeper of the “information highway,” a bulletin board filled with newspaper clippings of famous athletes.
“Every pro athlete should have 10 scholarships where they are sending kids to college,” said White. “All big businesses should be doing the same thing. Everybody has a gift. We all should help each other unlock those gifts.”

Car Free Decatur Day - Wed., Sept. 24th

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24th is CAR FREE DECATUR DAY!

Join us at the 12 pm, Wed., Sept. 24th Blue Sky Concert on the Square, brought to you by Decatur Business Association and SunTrust Bank. Co-sponsors: Little Shop of Stories, The Art Institute of Atlanta-Decatur, Lotus of Life Chiropractic. Enjoy music from the Buddy O'Reilly Band. Learn about commuting options from the Clean Air Campaign. Learn about the Safe Routes to School program sponsored by Decatur Active Living, and about our various programs and other events.

Please consider walking or biking to the concert!

The first Car Free Day in Decatur was held Wednesday, September 22, 2004. The Mayor proclaimed it Car Free Day and invited the community to join him at the Community Bandstand during the Blue Sky Concert for the celebration. Folks were encouraged to make a commitment to reduce their automobile use that day – including riding a bike to work, walking to the store, walking to the Blue Sky Concert, sharing a ride with friends, neighbors or co-workers, and/or riding the bus or MARTA train. Car-Free Day aims to reduce excessive automobile use for one day out of the year, and to remind the community that the automobile is not the only or the best way to make many kinds of trips.

The event expanded in 2005 to include exhibits and information from the Clean Air Campaign, Safe Routes to School, the PATH Foundation, and other organizations that offer options other than driving.

The Active Living Division is developing programs to encourage citizens and downtown employees to lead more active lifestyles. The effort involves more than developing traditional recreational programs and athletic team opportunities. The Active Living Division is working across departmental lines to improve opportunities for walking and cycling and develop programs for a broader range of age groups in the city.

The City is establishing an Active Living Advisory Board to develop program ideas and help implement a year-long fitness challenge to get the community more active. If you are interested in volunteering for this advisory board or would like to help with fitness activities, please contact Dan Magee, 678-553-6541 or dan.magee@decaturga.com.

Sept 16 - Walk & Wheel to School at Clairemont Elementary

1st Clairemont Walk and Wheel to School for this year!
7:30 to 8:05 am, Tuesday, Sept. 16th

Teachers will be stationed at Allen Wilson Terrace and Gateway Manor to meet children who usually ride the bus from these areas. Be sure to get a permission slip signed so your child can join in if they desire.

If you are looking for a walking or biking group for your child to join, contact Neil Norton 404-378-7939 or Nancy Garrison 404-373-9029 for assistance.

When walking or rolling to school, we remind all children and parents to remember their pedestrian and bicycle safety rules. For walkers, remember to look left, right, left again before crossing the street. Obey all traffic signals and beware of driveways! For those on bicycles, it is a law that children must wear a helmet. Adults please set a good example for your children and wear one also!!

Walk and Roll to School, It's COOL!!

Georgia Safe Routes to School:

http://www.dot.ga.gov/localgovernment/FundingPrograms/srts/Pages/default.aspx

Interested in Safe Routes to School? Join our new Yahoo Group listserve at: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/DecaturSafeRoutestoSchool/.

To subscribe, just e-mail a message to:
DecaturSafeRoutestoSchool-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Walktoschool.org is a great online resource for SRTS info.

Stay tuned for more info. on our big Walk/Bike to School Day Pep Rally, 7 pm, Tuesday, Oct. 7th, Decatur Rec. Ctr., 231 Sycamore St.

Absolute Treasures: Georgia State Parks & Historical Sites

Georgia has a fine state park system. Unfortunately, the park system is facing a funding crisis.

The two state parks in the metro area are Sweetwater Creek State Park and Panola Mountain State Park. Other state parks within 50 miles or less from Decatur are Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, Fort Yargo State Park, High Falls State Park, Hard Labor Creek State Park, Indian Springs State Park, and Pickett's Mill Battlefield Historic Site.

If you haven't visited a Georgia state park, you're in for a treat when you do. They offer a wide variety of fitness and recreational opportunities (hiking, fishing, golfing, equestrian, etc.), and a way to connect with some of the more beautiful natural environments in the state.

P.S. There is a Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites organization for those interested.

More Table Tennis! C'mon out Decatur Kids & Teens!

We have another fun table tennis activity! This and every Thursday, join us for table tennis lessons and games for city youth at the Ebster Recreation Center gymnasium, 404 W. Trinity St.

3:30 to 4 pm for children eleven and younger
4 to 5 pm pm for ages twelve and older

Ralph Presley from the Atlanta-Georgia Table Tennis Association will be leading the lessons and games. For more information, please contact Lee Williams, 678-553-6551.

November 15th - Park Renewal Day, Dearborn Park

Saturday, Nov. 15th, 9 am to 1 pm
*(Registration: 8 to 8:15 am)

Dearborn Park, Deerwood Dr. at Midway Rd., Decatur

http://www.parkrenewalday.com/
http://www.parkrenewalday.com/parkrenewalday_infosheet.pdf

Help the Park. Win Major Cash!
Did you know that invasive plant species like kudzu, privet and ivy are taking over our community parks by strangling and crowding out native plants? Renewal Construction, along with DeKalb County and the City of Decatur Active Living Division, call on neighbors like you to help save our precious greenspaces.

The Competition Teams compete for prize money by uprooting invasive plants in one of our local community parks. Officials from DeKalb County and the City of Decatur will judge the quality and quantity of work done to each group’s designated work space.

Food and live entertainment follow the work session

Where? Dearborn Park • Deerwood Drive at Midway Road, Decatur

Your group can win major cash sponsored by Renewal Construction:

First Prize: $1,000

Second Prize: $500

Third Prize: $350

Fourth Prize: $250

The deadline to register your team is Oct. 25th. Space is limited! One member from each team is required to attend one of two training sessions hosted by DeKalb County Parks

*There is no rain date for this event.Register your team by October 25 • Adobe PDF MS Word

Event is November 15 • 8 am-2 pm

Map: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=%20106342964052022723210.00045588dbbd0c9c61ac3

For more information, please contact Dan Magee, City of Decatur Active Living, 678-553-6541 or dan.magee@decaturga.com.

Don't call it Ping Pong!

It's a sport played at the Olympics. It's a sport played professionally world-wide. It's also a sport for all ages, and all skill & fitness levels. Yep, it's Table Tennis (not Ping-Pong!).

It's a fun way to get active, burn some calories, socialize and meet some interesting people, etc. As I peek into the gym, I see a fella in his 60's playing against a teenager...there aren't too many sports that are this inter-generational.

Well, it's here at our own Decatur Recreation Center (231 Sycamore St.) for a trial run this September and October.

We've partnered with the Atlanta-Georgia Table Tennis Association for sessions on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:55 pm, and Sundays 10 am to 12:55 pm. Please contact Dan Magee, 678-553-6541, with any questions. C'mon out and give it a try!

DeKalb Youth Cross Country Program

DeKalb County Parks & Recreation
Youth Cross Country Program

Registration Dates: August 11, 2008 - September 12, 2008
Registration Fee (includes long-sleeved t-shirt): $30

Start of Practice: September 3
Coaches Clinic & Running Workshop: September 18
Inter-squad Competition/Dual Meet: September 22
Race 1: October 4
Race 2: October 11
3rd Annual 5K Run/Walk & 1600m Walk: October 18
Race 3: November 8
County Meet: November 15

The age bracket/distance is as follows:
Ages 5-6: 800m (1/2 mile)
Ages 7-8: 1200m (3/4 mile)
Ages 9-10: 1600m (1 mile)
Ages 11-12: 3200m (2 miles)
Ages 12-14: 2.5 miles
Ages 15 and up: 3.1 miles

For more information, please contact Innocent Egbunike, 678-937-8926.

(Innocent Egbunike won a bronze medal in the 4x400m relay, and finished in 6th place in the 400m, at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, competing for Nigeria)

Still Taking App's: Active Living Advisory Board

The Decatur City Commission has created an opportunity for citizen involvement: The Active Living Advisory Board provides advice and support to the Active Living division to better manage and expand city programs that encourage an active, healthy lifestyle for all citizens. The board will assist with existing programs like Safe Routes to School, help design a citywide health and fitness initiative to be launched in 2009, recommend new programs and assist in the implementation of many of the recommendations found in the Community Transportation Plan. This board will include nine members.

From theSeptember 2008 Decatur Focus:
Decatur Gets Activated
The Decatur Recreation Department has become the Active Living Division and has been given the task of developing a comprehensive program to encourage citizens and downtown employees to lead more active lifestyles.
This effort involves more than developing traditional recreational programs and athletic team opportunities. The Active Living Division will work across departmental lines to improve opportunities for walking and cycling and develop programs for a broader range of age groups in the city. To assist in this effort, the city plans to establish an Active Living Advisory Board to develop program ideas and help implement a year-long fitness challenge to get the community more active.

City residents interested in being considered for the board should complete a Statement of Interest form, and send it to the City Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 220, Decatur, Georgia 30031; fax it to 678-553-6518; scan it and send via email: to info@decaturga.com; or drop it off to the Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St.

The City of Decatur is fortunate to have so many city residents who volunteer for a wide range of activities, events, programs, boards, etc.!

Hot off the Presses: Playbook (Sept. Edition)

The colorful, always informative Playbook is back. Click here for all the good stuff!
Features include info. on the Safe Routes to School Program, Coaching Youth Sports, the Decatur Youth Fund, Scott Garden, and info. on Camps and Classes, Staff Contact Info., and more.

Sept 19 - Keenagers Concert!!!

The Decatur Active Living Keenagers Present:

A Mystical Jazz Night
with the Atlanta New York Connection

7 to 10 pm, Friday, September 19th at the Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St.

$10 per person

Refreshments will be served
Dress is evening casual
Tickets available for purchase at the Decatur Recreation Center

For more information, please contact Chris Lewis, 678-553-6547