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.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
City of Decatur Residents, Let's Hear From You!
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.
Please click HERE to take the survey.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 27 - Decatur Electronics Recycling Day
Decatur Electronics Recycling Day
http://www.decaturg
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/
Scott Garden Club Workday
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
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@oakhurstga
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
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Youth Sports Free Webinar/Positive Chart
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.
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.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
This May - DeKalb County Senior Olympics
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.
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
May 14-15, 2010 • Co-hosted by Agnes Scott College, Decatur, Georgia
Register at www.acsm.org/worldheartgames by April 2, 2010
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
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.
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.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Let's Move!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Nobody Does it Better - This Saturday, the Annual Touch-a-Truck Event
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.
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.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Friday - Decatur Youth Lacrosse Night at the DHS Stadium
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.
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.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Mar 25 - "Rules for Safe Medication Use"
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.
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.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Volunteer Soccer Coaches Needed
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
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.
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
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
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)
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)
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)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Decatur Active Living Advisory Board Survey
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.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Georgia State Parks Spring Events
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.
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.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Child-seat checks to be held in Decatur
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.
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
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
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
Friday, March 5, 2010
News & Notes
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.
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.
More on Safe Routes to School
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
Georgia Master Naturalist Classes
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Coach Wilson
Decatur Active Living staff congratulates Coach Carter Wilson for a spectacular career as the coach of the Decatur High School Boys Basketball team!
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Click HERE for article from The Champion Newspaper
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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."
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."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Mar 13 - Need Volunteers for 8th Annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race
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.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
A Very Cold but Fun Georgia Walk/Bike to School Day!
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
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
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Bring the Heat - Fastpitch!
Sign up now for Girls Fast Pitch Softball
Decatur Active Living offers a fast pitch softball league for girls ages 9-10, 11-12, and 13-14. Each participant will receive a uniform and award. Practices will be held at Oakhurst Park. The age control date is January 1st, 2010.
Fee
$100 per player, City of Decatur resident (must provide proof of residency)
$130 per player, non-resident
VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
If you enjoy the game and enjoy working with others, why not volunteer as a coach?
For more information on fast pitch softball and volunteer coaching, please contact Lindsey Struck, 678-553-6550.
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