Free-For-All Friday 10/28/11
Decatur Metro | October 28, 2011 | 7:00 amFeel free to make comments and ask questions about local topics not discussed here over the past week.
Comments close Monday.
Feel free to make comments and ask questions about local topics not discussed here over the past week.
Comments close Monday.
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My recent trip to Spain was eye-opening as to the extensive efforts and investments being made there to develop infrastructure and operating alternate energy resources, including both solar and wind. Very impressive! I wish the U.S. would spend the money to develop alternate energy resources in the same ways. Much of the U.S. is blessed with plenty of sunshine and wind — taking advantage of that would be sensible and no doubt create many jobs along the way. It is so short-sighted for the U.S. to continue to depend on petroleum fuels and nuclear power.
The efforts in Spain are a wonderful example of exactly what not to do here – Solar/wind are only viable with massive government subsidies. Lovely concept- terrible economics.
Care to document your statement?
Solyndra
It could be helpful for you to explain or document what happened at that company , so we could debate industrial or economic development policy , rather than a just using what has become a slogan of what some people used to call the conservative wing of the republican party. Your answer is as meaningless as is the statement of the person who yesterday wrote we could blame the current crisis in health care system on “obamacare”.
I guess I’d turn it around and ask if there is an example of a profitable solar company out there not funded in lage part by a government? I know of none. Solyndra is of course being used for political purposes, but it is one concrete example of a solar company that failed spectacularly despite massive government money.
I think solar’s time is coming, but right now, it’s not an economical power source. The proof is that almost none of us are using it to light or heat our homes. If it were cheaper than coal or gas we’d be using it.
Pay now or pay then. Investment in development of alternate energy is a wise path, even if the energy produced costs “more” (presently) than that derived from nuclear or fossil fuel power. The sun and the wind are infinite resources — uranium, coal, and petroleum are not. Also, our almost complete dependence on foreign sources of petroleum is unwise and unhealthy — what petroleum resources remain are more important as a source of petrochemicals than for motor fuels. And coal/tar sand resources are dirty ways to fill in the growing gap. I believe the last time I looked into it, it was estimated that a home solar energy system would pay for itself in about 4 years, and all extra energy produced must be purchased by the electric utility.
The recent development of abundant natural gas seems to be changing this picture.
…except that, despite the natural gas industry TV ads to the contrary, getting to these supposedly massive deposits of natural gas, is potentially VERY polluting (i.e., deadly) for local ground water supplies. The ads remind me of the “clean coal” ads from a couple of years ago.
SteveC – you are exactly right. The fracking (fracturing) of rock to expedite gas flow to producing wells also affects ground water hydraulics and supplies, detrimentally. When the gas is gone, the rock fractures remain and so do fracturing fluid residues that may be toxic in the aquifers and water wells that intersect those areas or into which the fractures extend.
Why is there no reply link beneath chira’s last comment? Not that I have anything to add, except that we’re doomed.
Can’t have infinite levels of replies. Pretty soon it would look like…
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Well, solar and wind as infinite resources remains to be seen. The current (get it?) problem with energy generation from alternative sources has to do with storing the power once it’s generated. The technology to harness the fluctuations of solar and wind power isn’t developed yet…
Batteries plus the ability to put excess power on the existing electrical grid. Not a huge problem at all, just logistics.
Westinghouse Solar Power panels produce AC electricity, and you can install one or dozens. It’s a do-it-yourself type of product except for the connection to the utility’s electrical grid. I’m going to look into them for my own use. This is not about subsidizing and profiting from a “company,” I will be funding my own project. If there’s a tax break available, I will take it — perhaps you could call that a “subsidy”. Hmmm…
I had the same thought about your request for a cite today as your similar request regarding Obamacare yesterday. Perhaps I am misunderstanding you, but it seems to me that you are asking for proof becuase you don’t believe there is any. Even if I did a quick Google search and sent you numerous links, it is pretty clear that your mind is already made up.
All insurance companies are jacking up prices becuase of Obamacare (mine just went up 25% from last year) – specifically the additional required coverages and the uncertainty due to the fact that Congress and Obama signed a 1,000 page bill which basically said “fill in the blank”. Numerous employers are considering dropping healthcare for their employees altogether, and who can blame them? If the gov’t provides it for free (and yes, I know it isn’t free, but the ignorant masses don’t know that), why should they put themselves at a competitive disadvantage? All of this is well documented in numerous articles no matter where you get your news.
Regarding the economics of solar power, if it made economic sense, everyone would be trying to get into the game. Hell, you could probably pick up solar panels at evil Walmart. But, the fact remains that Solyndra failed because solar power is not economically viable despite the massive subsidy from the gov’t. (Before you correct me, when the gov’t makes a loan that it knows will never be repaid, it is essentially a subsidy). So, I am not merely using it as a slogan. Solar power (or some other alternative energy source) will become viable, but G Buck’s point was that it isn’t there yet and I agree.
And I concur with DEM. Please provide evidence that is is economically viable.
Long-term economic analysis is needed to understand the economic advantages of energy derived from infinite energy sources (e.g., solar, wind). If you expect more energy for less money NOW (today) from solar and wind sources, you will ignore their potential. If you see what is in our future, you will explore that potential. Less expensive solar panels are being manufactured now that anyone can buy and install themselves (but be sure to have a licensed electrician perform the electrical connection).
If you are right then why don’t we see solar panels on every roof? When I have looked into this, the answer seems to be that solar panels do not pay for themselves within in a reasonable time frame. If you have better or more current data I’d like to see it. I’d install panels on my own roof if it made financial sense to do it.
I think we will get there, but technological advances don’t always come as fast as we’d like them. Keep in mind that people are investing heavily in solar. Even Solyndra was able to raise boatloads of private capital. Just a few years ago First Solar was one of the hottest stocks on the planet.
Not picking sides here, but just wondering. What would you consider a reasonable timeframe?
MarriettaDawg? Are you back?
My med insurance was increasing dramatically each year before “Obamacare”. There is substantial evidence that countries with national healthcare plans save money and lives.
Don’t think oil companies get subsidies? They get massive subsidies and always have . . .
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/04/business/04bptax.html
It’s popular now to call tax credits or deductions “subsidies.” Heck, the administration even calls income tax deductions “spending in the tax code.” The unstated assumption, of course, is that all money belongs to the government and you are being “subsidized” if Uncle Sam lets you keep any.
At any rate, let’s assume the tax breaks available for capital investment in oil fields is a subsidy. So what? It doesn’t make the case for subsidizing anything else. The solution is to end all the subsidies, not to subsidize everything.
Yup.
Economic downturn has left communities and companies who were beginning to rely on government subsidies for solar power in the lurch, since 2009.
I caught it on 60 minutes a couple years ago.
Spain implemented true High Speed Rail (160 mph+) between major cities in less than 15 years, with the result that 20% fewer people make those trips via car. What could the US have done if a commitment had been made to that technology 20 years ago?
Spain is definitely looking into the future with its rail system, which is wonderful. I traveled by rail twice while there, and found it a comfortable and inexpensive way to cover a long distance.
Spainis is also one of the PIGS, whose runaway debt and faltering economy is threatening to bring down the European financial system.
Well, Germany also has a very advanced train system, and I think they’re doing fine.
Spain is compact, like most countries of Europe. The distance between the two furthest points in Spain is only about 600 miles, which is like the distance between New York, NY and Charlotte, NC. Though high speed rail may be a good option for the East Coast of the USA (and there is some Amtrak), the distance from East to Left Coast renders even high speed rail too slow. It’s not a national solution.
No, it’s not a solution for east-to-west coast, but, as you say, for medium distances it can be more time and energy efficient. How may flights from Hartsfield go to and from destination of less than 600 miles and could be replaced with HSR, saving the cost of more runways and being more fuel efficient to boot? Plus, door-to-door, HSR beats planes every time on routes of 500 miles or less.
There is no response, Steve, because there is no good response. Why should we not have a good rail system in this country because it is not practical to use rail to go from NYC to LA? Sure, but it would be great to have the option to take it from Atlanta to Birmingham or Atlanta to Nashville or Charlotte.
We should have that option, but for the last 50 years the concrete and asphalt lobby has ruled.
This is my dream. An overnight train from Atlanta to Miami, a good southern meal in the dining car as you leave Atlanta, then when you awaken to the porter’s knock, you are well into Florida. Perhaps a few stops where you can observe the native Floridians in their cunning traditional dress: the orange and blue garb of the Gainesvillians, the mink capes over Lily Pulitzer in Palm Beach. Toss a few pennies to the local youths, and they will scurry into the trees to bring you coconuts, oranges, and mangos. Before you know it, you arrive in Miami. A lively street market outside the station, where you can bargain with the natives for Haitian artworks, Lamborghinis, and Ecstasy. Someone is playing the steel drum and a waiter skates up with a key lime daiquiri. (That’s where I wake up and I’m still in the car, somewhere south of Valdosta.)
+1
So you actually take the Ecstasy before getting in the car, huh?
Can anyone recommend a bathtub refinisher? Our tubs are original to our 1920s house, and the surface of the tubs is wearing off. Thanks!
I think Mark at this place does this: http://www.atlantarefacing.com/ He did my countertops and did a good job. “Mark Vandett” ,
Thanks, Nathan.
In the spirit of Halloween, let’s remember a couple of things:
- Decatur is not a cozy upper middle class suburb but a small urban city. There is extreme poverty within miles or blocks. There will be kids who cannot afford costumes and/or lack the parental resources to make one. Cutting up an old sheet does not work when you don’t have extra sheets. Don’t complain about it.
- Kids will come to your neighborhood from less flush/safe surrounding areas- and even from “good neighborhoods” that are less walkable. Some come to your neighborhood to meet with their friends from other parts of Decatur. Don’t give out candy if this bothers you. It’s better to turn your lights out. Don’t complain about it.
- Adults will be trick or treating. It just happens for some weird reason. I just tell them my candy is for kids only. Be aware, and if it bothers you, be prepared to say “12 and under only at this house!”. Don’t complain about it.
-Some people have a lot of bright and interesting Halloween decorations. Just because it’s not your taste doesn’t mean it’s tacky, guady or wrong. It’s someone’s joy. I feel the same way about the giant in scale, overbuilt and often cheaply constructed houses that have popped up all over Decatur and have changed the look and feel of neighborhoods I have known or lived in since the 1980s. I can’t do anything about that either. Don’t complain about it.
- Most of all, unless there is a serious issue to complain about like roving gangs of egg- throwing high schoolers, poor police or fire response from the city or DM not reader pictures fast enough ’cause he hanging out with his little ghostie, don’t complain about it.
I agree wholeheartedly!
And I’d add one to the trick-or-treaters’ side:
-If the mean old lady only offers pennies heated in a skillet, not quarters, don’t complain about it.
I believe that’s the lady we bought our house from. In an effort to cleanse that karma, we will be handing out premium, full size candy bars. Kids only (except for naughty nurses and French maids, of course).
Get off your high horse, woman.
thin ice, bud. thin ice
I actually agree with everything she’s saying. I vividly recall the thread she refers to below.
Bud Ice!
Thank you for telling me how to conduct myself on Halloween. I don’t know how I have gone so many Halloween without your list of rules. Thank you so much.
I guess there are witches everywhere.
Were you around for the Halloween thread last year that really upset a lot of people because all people did was criticize and complain? Everything listed up there pretty much derailed a nice community thread and hurt a lot of feelings. Better to understand context before you comment.
It was certainly a nice overview of the topics discussed last year, but not everyone agrees with your suggestions. So really, you might have just opened the door to another thread just like last year…
Damn. You are right.
Alanis Morissette could totally write a song about this…
Maybe no one will bite.
You are so funny
And it’s quite possible that your suggestions can be read more so as directives. No one will ever agree on these issues, but everyone can probably agree they don’t enjoy being told how to handle them.
My recollection is that some of the criticisms and complaints were legitimate — if for no other reason than they represented how somebody else had experienced the holiday in their neighborhood. Based on your “overview” above, you didn’t really hear what some people were trying to say, and instead filtered their comments through your own assumptions. That’s out of character for you, and I chalk it up to your having been upset because your friend got her feelings hurt by a comment (or cmoments) posted here. It also seems unlike you to be issuing an edict about what is and is not acceptable for discussion here. A part of me is moved to challenge that, but I’m actually going to disengage from the whole trick or treating thing this year. Every year is a disappointment, and it’s not going to change, so the rational choice is to stop setting myself up for it. If I am overtaken by the need to share, I’ll do it somewhere else.
Someone bit…
It’s kind of fun to put these three little words in the search field right over there on the left: Halloween Open Thread
Almost the same exact players.
Thanks. I honestly didn’t recall much of that convo. My initial post asking folks to post different costumes and such seems a bit naive now. Ah how things have changed…over a year ago.
More importantly, what has happened to PcMG???
Nom, nom, nom … I’ll chew too.
Forgive me, STG. I know you said you don’t want to talk about it. But I value your opinions and I’m curious. What about Halloween every year is disappointing?
I read nelliebelle’s post. Is that it? Some kids can’t afford costumes and some people think their neighbors’ decorations are tacky and the complaining just drags down the holiday for you? Or is it something else?
I honestly do not want to get into a protracted discussion about this. but I also don’t want to wind up being mis-characterized here and lumped in with others who had very different complaints than mine last year.
In a nutshell (believe it or not)….
Little kids not in costume: no problem
Teens not in costume: one small piece of candy and sometimes a slight admonishment (if you’re young enough to trick or treat but also taller than me, then make an effort and at least paint your face or wear a goofy hat)
Young women with tiny babies in strollers, thrusting grocery bags in my face and demanding candy “for the kids”: one piece of candy each (and once I couldn’t help observing out loud, “Those children don’t have teeth.”)
Kids I’ve never seen before, in elaborate costumes, being escorted along the block by parents in late-model, high-end vehicles: same cordial greeting and generous allotment of candy as anybody else; but me left feeling somewhat exploited. (I live on a budget that is not really comfortable, and don’t feel happy about spending a bunch of money to buy candy for a bunch of strangers who obviously have more resources than I do.)
Hordes of cars from outside the neighborhood creating traffic congestion that undermines safety during peak trick or treat time, when every child in the neighborhood is trying to negotiate the territory on foot and in costume: irritating.
I live here because I wanted to recapture the experience I had growing up, of living in a community made up of different kinds of families: with kids, without kids, old, young, middle-aged, etc. I’ve cultivated a fantasy that once enough kids around here got out of strollers and into grammar school, then trick or treating would be mainly a neighborhood event. That hasn’t panned out. Hordes of incomers from elsewhere are only part of what bothers me. The other part is feeling invisible to the families living around me. That’s not specifically a Halloween thing, but the whole trick or treating tradition, for me, sort of spotlights it.
Hope everybody has fun and stays safe!
Agree, STG.
If you don’t have a costume on, don’t come to my house.
If you are over the age of 13, don’t come to my house.
If you are trucked in from another neighborhood, don’t come to my house.
I’m sorry if this sounds elitist, but it’s the way I feel. Halloween is meant for little kids in the neighborhood to have fun with their friends.
Some neighborhoods make a big deal out of Hallowe’en, and are therefore more fun to go trick or treating.. uhhh… at. We live in condos (in the City Of, mind you) and the trick or treating blows, so we drive over to one of the fun places on Hallowe’en. Our young children appreciate it.
Perfectly acceptable in my rule book, Al. I should have said “If you are trucked in from another City/County/Community, then don’t come to my house.”
How can you possibly tell if a child in costume is from a downtown Decatur condo or a downtown Atlanta project? Just curious.
+1
My kids are adults now. Most of their trick-or-treat (T-or-T) years we lived on a busy two-lane street w/o sidewalks or in a neighborhood with all older adults/kids grown so we also went to a nearby neighborhood with lots of children. We always parked the car and walked with them.
To the list of behaviors T-or-T I do not like is the rolling car following along the street as the kids go door to door. While I’m glad the adult is supervising, it’s just unsafe for all the other kids & their chaperones. And if they are disabled then I’d hope someone else could volunteer to walk with their kids.
@ C.H.U.D “How can you possibly tell if a child in costume is from a downtown Decatur condo or a downtown Atlanta project? Just curious”
Said costume should be organic and locally sourced and sold by independent retailer. Look for Walmart or Dollar General tags on others.
I think maybe you should turn your porch light off and not participate. That’s what most people with so many rules do.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!
@ brianc: I live in Decatur Heights, where there is not a whole lot of trick-or-treating going on. Almost all the lights on Sycamore were off. My husband was answering the door and giving out candy, chocolate even, not crappy stuff. My son and I did go to Oakhurst, where we have friends and it just seems alot more kid firiendly and fun for the little ones. AND (gasp!) I did buy my son’s costume at WalMart. It was cute and he wanted it. Sorry it was not locally and organically grown. My bad. (btw, if your post was meant in jest, then forgive my sarcastic tone)
Yes, it was meant as a joke–not a very good one I guess.
BrianC: I see you are a night owl, as am I. After I posted that comment I read some more of your comments further down and thought you were most likely joking. Glad I made my disclaimer, I really am a nice person. I just remember the endless complaining from last year’s Halloween and I felt (and still feel) totally justified in that we are contributing to the Halloween spirit on the other side of town, if not personally trick-or-treating there. I would love tpo see more, it just really seems that the bulk of the kids in Decatur live in Oakhurst! Plus my 3 year old was bound and determined to trick-or-treat with “NellieBelle Jr”., so what can you do?
Are you really this disappointed about your community? I think your list of peeves actually matches your desired environment (“I live here because I wanted to recapture the experience I had growing up, of living in a community made up of different kinds of families: with kids, without kids, old, young, middle-aged, etc.”) but with a greater radius. Unless, that is, what you really mean is status quo, just-like-me segregation.
Sharron and Worker Bee (below)-
I get the feeling that y’all may have missed a good many of the deeper discussions on here because smalltowngal has worn her heart on her sleeve in caring about and standing up for her neighbors. She’s put in the effort communitywise and on a neighbor-by-neighbor basis.
(Worker Bee, you may genuinely not know her track record of piping up. If you’ll pull up the 500 comment Dollar General thread, it’ll give you insights into smalltowngal’s care and concern. Sharron, your comment has a whiff of just wanting to take a jab– as you’re a longtime commenter, you’ve got to have picked up clues on what smalltowngal’s all about.)
I’ve been a dedicated reader for years, I just don’t feel the need to always comment. I was just responding to her comments. Don’t assume.
Actually, I was giving you the benefit of the doubt.
So now we have to read all comments in the context of the poster’s history? That seems a bit ridiculous.
Or maybe I’m clueless.
Honestly, I really don’t keep track nor try to connect various posts from individuals in order to “build” a character description in my mind. In this case I reacted to my literal interpretation of stg’s post.
Thanks, D, I appreciate your loyalty and, always, your unfailing sense of fair play. I knew sharing my perspective would invite a few jabs. I’m not invested in defending my perspective this year, or in trying to convince anybody of anything. Happy Halloween!
Sorry for the jabs, STG. Thanks for responding.
R-N H: Don’t mention it. Seriously, never mention it again! /;-o
If you “feel invisible to your neighbors” and want to “recapture the experience (you) had growing up,” that’s up to you; you have to make the effort. I don’t know where you live in Decatur, but I sure don’t feel invisible-I know all my neighbors, most of my street, a lot of people on the blocks around me. We have all different kinds of families-older couples, lots of kids, some with teenagers, lots with babies, some with grown kids, several gay couples. I may not know every person on Halloween who comes to my door, but so what? I don’t every single person in Decatur either!
It is definitely easier to mingle once one has children. I lived in our house as a single person before acquiring a husband and then kids. Prior to kids, I waved to a lot of neighbors but knew few of them. I would have liked to have known them better but it took special efforts on my part and theirs and it didn’t happen easily and naturally. Once I had kids, other kids just showed up at our house on a regular basis (even when I only had a baby!) and then my kids started to need to be retrieved from every corner of every yard and house. Meeting neighbors is a no brainer when you have kids. It’s like the difference between having to seek out exercise vs. getting exercise because physical activity is part of your job.
“acquired a husband”. That made me laugh.
* Only acquire your own! :0)
Well NOW who’s being judgmental and high-horsing it?!?
the same thing happened for me when i got my dog. with a puppy in tow you meet all the neighbors!
STG -
The same kind of things bug me too but you know what I’ve done that’s worked wonders for my psyche? I scare the living bejeezus out of those folks. A chainsaw (remove the cutting chain) and my blood curdling screams while donning my Naaman Gibbets mask usually works quite well. Seriously – scare the crap out of them – it is TRICK or treat you know.
I will make sure my kids have proper identification stating their Decatur/Oakhurst residence and are dressed appropriately for your inspection…if there is anything further you require please let us all know…one request from us shut your porch light off…
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
STG-
I think I would call this more a laundry list.
Of course I was annoyed at how upset my friend got last year. I am certainly not going to deny that that influences my opinion. I’d be lying to deny mixed motivation. I got really upset, though, by the people who were slamming kids for not having costumes. It felt really elitist and it bothered me. I was hoping just to throw all the issues out there and maybe forestall a massive going off the rails like last year’s Halloween comments. Obviously, my tone might have been less than obvious and I didn’t realize the obvious- bringing this stuff up brings this stuff up! I think we both feel strongly about these issues on opposite sides in several cases and we both have similar but opposit filters.You were upset for very different reasons last year, and I am glad you made a decision that will help.
Re kids without costumes: my son thought it amusing and ironic to trick or treat as a “random fifth grade student” one year. Luckily he was not shunned by our neighbors . . .
smalltowngal-
I get exactly where you’re coming from on the Halloween stuff and the single person-in-a-neighborhood bubble. Halloween I solve by traveling to do the trick or treatin’ hooplah with my little kin or by disengaging all together. On the single neighbor stuff, like you, I try to show my regard for folks by pitching in on neighborhood projects, and, like you, I sometimes wonder if it even registers. In fact, quite often it seems like my efforts are discounted by family neighbors in a “she has nothing better to do” way… At a neighborhood meeting last week, a neighbor randomly shared his assessment of our neighborhood as “one that won’t truly reach its potential until the remaining rentals and single person owned homes have been bought up by families.” Don’t know what bothered me more: that he said it or that none of the other family folks poohpoohed it. As much as it hurt my feelings, I felt even worse for the two single older neighbors present who grew up in the neighborhood and have lived there most of their lives.
Those kinds of comments reflect the worst kind of suburban subdivision, segregation by lifestyle and price point thinking. For the sake of your neighborhood, Deanne, let’s hope such voices don’t assume any sort of leadership position anytime soon.
They also conflict directly with many of the goals — social and economic — in the new strategic plan.
Deanne’s talking crazy talk again, because her efforts are very much appreciated in our shared neighborhood
Deanne, where do you think the childless buyers of former rental properties fit into said neighbor’s scheme? Maybe we should develop an algorithm to help us determine if I and neighbors like me should be kicked out so that we don’t destroy the very fabric of the neighborhood.
DM apparently has this new “no name calling” policy so I will refrain from categorizing your neighbor in any way. However, I will say that I probably would have hit him. Most people can be reasoned with but some just need to be hit in the face, for the good of all involved…
We moved into our new place in August. I love our neighborhood and our street in particular. We have some awesome neighbors and a good mix with everything from young renters with no kids to older folks who have lived here for 30+ years. The weird thing is that every single one of them, within minutes of meeting us, have asked the same question: How many kids do you have and how old are they? They didn’t ask if we had kids, they just assumed that we did because we fit perfectly the demographic of folks who move here with school age kids. The reactions to our answer range from shocked disbelief (the neighbors who have kids) to great relief (all the others)!
I guess now I can be proud that we plan to live here and prevent our lovely little neighborhood from reaching it’s “potential” for hopefully the next several decades!
People can’t believe we choose to live here and pay the property taxes but don’t have kids in the school system (no kids, period.) I tell them we love downtown Decatur, and there response is why not live just outside the city limits. Today my wife told someone at work that we share a car so we can afford to live where we do and enjoy it. He said “You share a car and pay those taxes? How unAmerican of you…(he was kidding, but I think a lot of people seriously feel that way).
Deanne, every village has its idiot. Don’t sweat it.
“Atlanta – the city too busy to hate”*
*except on Halloween
No name calling.
Isn’t that the holiday meme? Like ‘scrooges’ who don’t appreciate the Christmas spirit? Not directed at any individual, of course.
Ah, OK. I thought it was directed. Though I prefer “village bruja-ha”.
Gotta say, I didn’t see *this* thread going *this* way. I think we need a Beer Summit…
Sorry. I was actually trying to ask that we keep the Halloween spirit and accept each other just this one time a year (you know, like Christmas but with slutty French maid costumes). This is why I need emoticons
You left one out – it is perfectly acceptable to throw whatever is handy at any car that speeds down your street during trick-or-treat time.
Why limit this to trick or treat time? I am constantly amazed at how many people think speed humps are ramps.
Of course, the Decatur police are the worst offenders in my neighborhood, so maybe I should show a little restraint!
Actually, I would throw beer cans. Full ones
That’s not sustainable. Pound the beer, then recycle as an automotive behavioral modification device.
1. Drink the beer first;
2. Fill the empty cans with your kid’s acorn collection;
3. Then throw the cans at the reckless scofflaws.
Some people are going to get coal in their stockings! Oops, wrong holiday.
That’s an even better idea. Drink the beer. Put coal in the empty beer can. Then throw at the speeding cars.
It’s dark, and everyone knows children are roving about, there’s just no excuse for that. Sometimes I fantasize about having a megaphone for things people should clearly be aware of, but are oblivious to. Like blocking the intersection, loud cell phone talkers, the world revolves are me type of folks.
Last week I was on Marta. the train was not completely packed but full. A blind lady and her dog got on, no one in the handicapped seats moved. The train driver leaves his spot, walks into the car and says “this train is not moving until this woman is seated” Still no one moved! My fantasy megaphone was yelling things so foul at them, I’ll just have to leave it there…
count me in on the fantasy megaphone…i’d even settle for one of those horns in a can that they use for substitutions at soccer games, etc…that could really come in handy for clueless drivers and jackholes in general.
Wow
Good for that driver for trying. My wife complains all the time about the oblivious jerks who put their luggage next to them, taking up two seats when the train is full, while she stands there staring daggers at them. If MARTA allowed “voluntary deputies,” I’d damn sure bullhorn some of the people who ignore the rules.
That is also extremely rude and annoying. If your luggage is so precious it needs its own special seat, get a taxi.
Dang.
I moved here after living in Boston for 20 years. People down here are way more polite than in Boston. Bostonians are just plain straight-up evil.
I grew up in NYC, though. In some ways, New Yorkers (a clever Readers Digest survey found NYC to be the most polite city in the US some years back) are more polite than Atlant…. eans? ites? oids?. But man, if I saw people not give up a seat for a blind/pregnant/handicapped/baby-holding/overweight woman in this town, my New York instincts would kick in and I’d give ‘em the brass knuckles.
Al, I too moved here from Boston and also grew up in NYC. Your assessment of Atlantans, New Yorkers and Bostonians is dead on.
Grew up in Boston as well, the difference is we say whats on our mind directly to people in situations like that down here they comment on it on blogs and threads….:)
Yeah, well I grew up in Jersey. We also say what’s on our mind directly to people in situations like that. THEN we comment on it in blogs. AND THEN we hunt down their families…
Wait – how does this not count as name calling?
#goredsox
And still no other passangers said anything….that makes me so sad….
Well… what happened? Did the train sit there all day and night?
I agree with most of your points, but couldn’t help but roll my eyes that at the same time you are admonishing all not to complain, you go ahead and stick your own complaints in regarding “giant in scale, overbuilt and often cheaply constructed houses that have popped up all over Decatur and have changed the look and feel of neighborhoods I have known or lived in since the 1980s”
And that was actually my point- you can complain about something that doesn’t suit your taste for ever but the fact is something is always going to offend someone else’s sensibilities so if it’s not harming anyone, you might as well get it over it. A few people cruelly slammed poster Nancy Wilkerson’s house on Mead last year and it was nothing but a difference in taste.That’s how I feel about certain styles of architecture that are very present around here these days. But I have to get over it, just like people have to get over that not everyone will decorate the way THEY find acceptable.Make sense? But I get what you are saying.
At my house small kids get candy no matter what. Kids who don’t have costumes because they can’t afford it get extra candy. All kids must say “trick or treat” to receive candy.
Kids too old and adults get handled in the spirit of the holiday. I buy the individually wrapped pickled plums from the Asian market that look like candy, especially in the dark. Those are kept separately on the side of the bowl and handed out with a smile to those I deem plum-worthy.
Just gotta have fun with it.
Mmmm, I love those plums, and so does my kid.
I like your approach and strategy, mrblonde. No unpleasantries, just go along with the spirit of the holiday. A generous heart is always happy. Thank you, it is nice to read what you have written. I intend to do the same…
I’m glad to hear at least one other person will be doing this, it’s pretty funny!
Just curious, how do you know who cannot afford a costume?
Simple, I make a snap decision about it. It’s not supposed to be scientific.
I want to know about these pickled plums.
The first time I bought them out of curiosity and the lady at the Asian store seemed pretty surprised to see me buying them…she said that some of her friends like them but she can’t stand them, almost no westerners like them apparently (jkga being a possible exception, assuming he/she is a westerner). I tried one and it was one of the most disgusting things I’ve ever tasted…had to go right in the trash.
That was a few days before Halloween….adults in no costume start showing up at my door, I look around the house, and in a flash a new Halloween tradition was born at the Blonde household.
My Halloween angst is always more self-directed. Have I bought enough treats and are they the proper ones? I buy some of the candy I like (for obvious reasons), some of what the kids like (does not overlap much with the former), some Welch’s fruit snacks because they are slightly healthier than candy but don’t get avoided like raisins, some Oriental Trader trinkets for variety and those kids not allowed to have candy, with at least a few items like little bubble jars for the tots, also including some glow in the dark items for safe walking around. But nonetheless, if we don’t get a big crowd, I wonder what I’ve done wrong. We’re kind of light on the Halloween decorations with just a few pumpkins out, maybe that’s it???
And then there’s the etiquette issue. Where I grew up, you got one item per house–e.g. a candy bar or a lollypop or a small treat bag with a few small items in it, like candy corn and hard candies. The style in this part of the world seems to be “grab a handful”. I’m told by Georgia-raised relatives and friends that it’s always been the style. So how does one deliver goodies gracefully? Especially now that unpackaged, loose candy is not kosher! “Here–you have a choice of grabbing a fistful of this or two items of that or choosing a cute trinket”? I’ve occasionally had a gang of kids with the two-fistful approach who would have wiped out my supplies in one swoop if I didn’t intervene. I want lots of visitors but I want the supplies to last for all of them!
At Home –
We ran into the “grab a handful” method and deal with it by putting together treat bags. Yeah, I know it’s a lot of bother, especially when you get over 300 trick-or-treaters, but it controls both the flow of the candy and the bottlenecks that happen when polite little kids have too many choices and are paralyzed with indecision over which treat to select. We put a mix of candy in the bags – the kids can sort it out later in the time-honored tradition of the candy swap with family and friends.
Hold the bowl above kids’ eye-level and distribute two pieces into each bag, instead of thrusting the bowl at them and expecting them to demonstrate restraint. Just a thought.
I’ve been doing this for years. One fun sized candy per kid. No problem. When I run out? I blow out the pumpkin and turn off the lights. Is this really that difficult a problem to solve?
I’m going to completely disagree. When the kids on your street have children pushing and running home to home with no costume on it ruins the experience of trick or treating.
Has anyone noticed that the witch and Frankenstein in the inflatable Halloween decoration in front of McGowans look like they are engaging in activity that I believe is still illegal in Georgia?.. or is my mind just in the gutter?
I haven’t been by to see it. This is a perfect “eye on the street” opportunity.
On that note, I cannot be the only one who thinks that one of the pictures in the Little Shop of Stories ad above was taken from an inappropriate and almost illegal angle…
Little Shop is sacred; I reject any creepy comments about anything they do!
Nothing is sacred to everyone
yep, and DM comments prove it. But I wanted to say something and did couch the rejection in very personal terms. And if the comment is about a kid’s picture, I still say it’s creepy.
I’ve always thought that about the LSOS ad and am glad someone else said it.
I guess that’s why they call them blow up decorations.
I saw the witch and the Creature but I didn’t see a Dr. Frankenstein.
Well, it seemed like a good idea when I had it yesterday and posted it in the beer thread. And then it seemed like an even better idea after a growler of that pumpkin crap. So what the hell, let’s do it. I’m in. Walrus says he’s in. So,,,
Brick Store Belgian Bar. 5:00. Today. Come on out and say Hi!
[as DM pointed out yesterday, he does not endorse nor even condone this event. However, he is apparently not entirely opposed to me organizing it. If we get enough interest in the comments here, I'm betting he might even be tempted to come see what local "characters" show up]
Yeah!
Sounds great, but I’m out for a wedding rehearsal. Report back how it went. I’ll join in one day soon.
Been to one wedding, been to them all. No rehearsal required….
Hey, where is everybody? It’s 5:00 somewhere, right?
At 6:00 I can report that I’ve only had one taker on my offer. While that may seem like a disappoinntment, iit’s actually 100% better turnout than I expected. No Walrus, no Bobby (next time RSVPs will be enforced!), but for those of you clamoring for the returrn of DTR and Lyrics Only Guy, had you been here you could have done so in person!
Oh yes, we will do this again. ;ut next time it will be in my natural environment at Trackside. And hopefully there will be no wedding rehearsals!
“Hey honey, I’m going out drinking with some guys I met on the internet. No, I don’t know what time I’ll be back. Don’t wait up!”
It sounded like fun, but this close to Xmas I try to be especially careful with the battles I pick.
Hmmm, when you put it that way it does sound a little weird and creepy
To be honest, I was a little frightened by the open invitation after I made it. All worked out well, though. I can confirm that Token is a real person and a very nice one at that. If anyone else showed up to lurk and just try to figure out who I was, there were very discreet about it and nothing scary transpired.
Mrs. JT let’s me get away with a lot so I’m usually not too concerned about picking my battles. However, that need not be an issue. Spouses are always welcome too! (See, I didn’t even assume that you are female and that your spouse is a male. My OTP heteronormatism has been cured!)
What does Token look like? Did he stick you with check? Try to buy you a chick fila sandwhich?
No, Token did not stick me with the check. In fact, I owe him a beer because I forgot that I said in the other thread that I’d buy the beer! So DTR, if you’re reading this, it’s on me next time!
I also promised not to reveal identities, or even to provide any clues as to them. So, if you’re curious, you’ll just have to come on out next time. I’ll try this again at some point.
And no, there was no Chick-fil-a bought or consumed. I did, however, eat a McRib in the rain on the way home…
Sorry man. I ran into a chum with a bottle of rum and we wound up drinking all night.
My guess is that this is one of DTR’s old monikers …
Whoa, buddy! You must be a little Grapefruit-Juicy Fruit if you think I’d be associated with someone of such red state political persuasion!
Of course, I did go through phase where I really wanted to get drunk and, um, “get to know” that Sarah Palin chickadee
Cool — sounds like a fun time.
I started to think that I would find myself *****listed at the next CSD meeting.
That harm’s already been done. You had nothing to lose!
Sorry! I had some friends from Indiana call me and say “Hey, we are in town.” So, blown plans… Trackside works for me; love the pimento cheese…
No worries. We will try this again soon!
Pardon the open letter (please read as rant), but I’ve got to get something off my chest. In the afternoon traffic, I turn right from W. Howard Avenue at, Decatur High School, across the tracks and take a quick left onto W. College Avenue. The turn signal simplifies the street change for me, but some of my fellow drivers are taking the joy out of heading home from the office.
First, I’m not going to edge out into the intersection, if the light on the other side of the tracks is red and the only place to sit is on the tracks; so stop honking your horn.
Second, if there isn’t a place for your car, please don’t block two lanes or a single lane and a pair of crosswalks to edge your car out into the intersection.
Finally, take a second, just a single second, to make sure nobody is approaching the intersection from behind you on a bike or walking along the PATH lane.
I’ve seen the the railroad gate arms lower over the front and rear bumper of a car hanging out on the tracks waiting for the signal to change. Of course, there was a car in front and another behind them, and by the time the panicked driver finally managed to slam it in reverse and back off the tracks under the gate arm, the train, which had its horn blaring, was about ten or fifteen yards away.
Stopping your car on a track is just plain stupid, including the guy with the big rims who pulled in front of me when I didn’t pull up to stop on the track, and then proceeded to gesticulate to me with both hands out his open window when I tooted at him. I’m sorry the train didn’t show up at that time.
BTW, I was in Municipal Court several years ago (as a witness) when they fined a guy who had been ticketed for stopping on the track.
It’s not illegal to stop on a track if the gates are open.
I’m totally with you, Mr. Troll. I actually once saw a vehicle struck by a train, the most horrible sight of my life. Let the morons honk all they want, you won’t see me loitering on the tracks.
Why are they drilling a well behind Fire Station No. 1?
I hear it is for geo-thermal heating, not a well. But heck, a well would be a cool idea!
For anyone like me who finds the Savvy Shopper has mysteriously disappeared with the paper before you ever even got a chance to thumb through it, I discovered all the coupons are online. There are some pretty good ones for local places. couponclipper.com
And can’t remember who suggested getting a Google number a couple of weeks ago, I didn’t need one, but got it just to try it out, and LOVE it! It can transcribe your voice mails (I’m bad about not checking them), and let’s you send texts and make calls just sitting at your computer, and everyone that I have called said the quality is great. It’s just all kinds of neat.
Thanks for the info re: Savvy Shopper. Ours quit coming over a year ago and I didn’t know how to get it back. Now, if I could only make the DeKalb Neighbor quit coming….
An Open Letter to the Oak Tree in My Front Yard:
I love you. You are glorious and majestic. But enough with the acorns, already.
My kid started a very precious and valuable acorn collection. I am sure eventually all of yours will end up in my living room
Your kid is welcome to all of my acorns provided he/she takes the leaves too:)
During the first Fall in our house, my car ended fall by looking like a hale storm victim.
Your Element with Great Dane decoration?
You got it! Love them both!
I’ve been considering an Element but pretty wife thinks they’re ugly.
Did I hear they are not making them anymore?
Yes, sadly the 2011 models will be the last. They say sales have not been good. It’s weird because you see so many around here, but apparently not so many up north.
It is the most useful care I have ever owned. It is great for so many things. I highly recommend.
I own an Element as well, best decision I’ve ever made! I love it so much.
They sold a lot of them, but it’s Honda’s least marked-up vehicle. So, they didn’t make very much profit on them. They should have raised the price a few k, but that might have detoured buyers.
If the Element is indeed going away, I can recommend the Nissan Cube as an alternative. Had one as a rental car last week and LOVED IT.
I’ll trade you that oak for two sweetgums.
+1
Not on your life. We’ve got one of them as well.
I think we should convince nelliebelle’s son to start a sweetgum ball collection. He is welcome to all of ours. I mean, acorns are so over-rated.
Given Nellie’s previous comments about her kids I’m not sure that I want her offspring anywhere near my house
Too bad Baby Nubbs isn’t quite old enough for gumball gathering duties. My friend sends his 8-year old on Saturday morning with a big bag and “pays” him a penny each for them. It doesn’t quite rid the yard of all the buggers but it keeps the kid busy for three hours. And when he told me that his dad made him actually count the gumballs, it also gave me the perfect opportunity to teach him the concept of “rounding up”. Of course, now I don’t trust him to not cheat me. Guess I’ll see if I can negotiate either a flat fee or a hourly rate!
Of course, given how well those gumballs attach themselves to my dogs hair, in addition to the sheer volume of hair they produce, maybe we can make a coat out of their fur for the little guy and send him out crawling in the yard!
My Grandmother paid us per bucket for sweetgum balls, but we had to pick fruit (and dodge bees) for free. I’ve always sort of liked sweetgums since then!
Recommendations on Haunted Houses in or near @DecaturGA? (did I do that right?)
Anyone know if the one at Ebster Gym will be up and running this year? Couldn’t tell from a check of the Active Living website and I haven’t noticed any signs.
Yes, there will be one at Ebster this year.
Info on the Active LIving blog http://beactivedecatur.wordpress.com/2011/10/18/halloween-dance
Hope you can join in the fun, the staff has been enjoying preparing for the Dance and the Haunted House.
If this is for older teens or adults, check out Atlanta Zombie Apocalypse near the Starlight Drive-In: http://www.atlantazombie.com/ The Weather Channel rated them #2 in the country.
domo arigato
MR ROBOTO
Attention all DHS Parents and Students:
Everything You Want Your Kids to Know About S. E. X….But Are Afraid to Tell Them! Workshop is Wednesday!
More information at the DHS website or latest email.
The workshop series is presented by Dr. William Stayton, (M. Div.,Th.D., PhD). Dr Stayton is one of the world’s leading experts on the topic and is currently a professor at Morehouse School of Medicine and is a consultant with CDC working to curtail the epidemic of teen pregnancy and AIDS.
My family experienced the same workshop at our church last year and it is both informative and inspirational.
I tried to get this discussion started late into thet last FFFA, but didn’t get any traction: Is the Subaru Outback still the “Decatur car,” as Atlanta magazine claimed in 2005, or do we have a new contender, say, the Prius or Honda Element?
We do indeed have a new contender. It was in a thread a few months back…
http://gothamist.com/attachments/arts_jen/0805beerbike.jpg
That’s awesome! In that Atlanta magazine article, yoga was named as the thing Decatur can’t live without. I definitely think beer is the new downward facing dog.
Here is a link to the article “Meet The Neighbors: Keeping Up With The Joneses All Over Town”:
http://books.google.com/books?id=rA8AAAAAMBAJ&q=decatur#v=snippet&q=decatur&f=false
Can anyone recommend a dog walker they use in Decatur? I’m looking for someone that doesn’t mind being called on when needed, rather than used as a regular service. Thanks!
Dog Walkers
http://www.di-o-gi.com/default.html
I love my Element!
How do they handle rain/rain delays for DHS football? Forecast tonight is not looking so great. 60 to 70% chance of rain for hours.
There are no rain delays in football…lightning yes, rain no.
No rain delays in football, and no crying in baseball. Everyone knows that!!
Thanks for clearing that up for me! I thought I remembered being huddled under the stands for rain at HS games, but maybe it was for lightning instead.
Yeah, lightening is a different thing entirely.
Hi. Just recently moved to Decatur from Lake Claire and am curious on the number of trick or treaters to expect. We live in the Lenox Place area.
I live in Lenox Place and it’s iffy. 2000-2008 medium amount of kids on melrose, lots on adair in 2009, barely any on Melrose, 2010 back to medium amount of kids, I think this year there will be quite a bit.
There will be a taffic jam on Adair. Actually already has been starting last night.
Well – Why can’t people park across from Adair Park to help relieve congestion? Plenty of room there!
hahahahah!!!
Is anyone else sort of excited about this?
http://www.ajc.com/business/megabus-to-launch-express-1209380.html
It’s no light rail. But hotdiggity, inexpensive fares and free wifi. I’m in.
I’m thinking about trying it to Charlotte, just to see what it’s like. It drops off at the Charlotte Transit Center, so I assume I could get around without a car, if I stayed in a hotel near stuff. When I checked earlier this week, the next available seat was Nov. 16. I don’t see how they can charge so little, but a friend confirmed that if if you book in advance, seats are just a dollar or two.
I’m holding out for this:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074205/
I wish it went to Savannah. Then I would totally use it!!!
I’d bet if there is a Jacksonville line, it would have a stop in Savannah. I’d use it for that, too.
I don’t think they make any stops. It’s an express service, not like Greyhound.
Right. So you mean that since they used the word “express” in the title, and as the first word in the article, it will be an express service, then? I get it now.
Is it 5 yet?
Though in the case of the Nashville route, it does stop in Chattanooga. So maybe they will add a Savannah stop on the Jacksonville route if enough people ask for it. I’d gladly pay 60 or 70 bucks round trip not to have to make that drive myself.
Definitely agree about Savannah..I’m tempted by the Nashville destination though..A place I’d like to visit once but can’t see paying much to do so.
Anyone know where to rent a steamer like they use to clean tile and grout? All the Ladybug ads that have been popping up at me online have got me really curious. They are way too expensive, though. Has anyone bought a steam cleaner and liked it? I’m experiencing fall cleaning mania – CLEAN ALL THE THINGS!
http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-08-11T20%3A02%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=10
I have a McCulloch steamer. I like it, you still have to scrub the grout a little but the steam makes it pretty easy. Makes cleaning the kitchen floor easier too.
On a beautiful autumn Saturday morning, the 29th of October, plan on coming to the DHS Lacrosse Team’s Yard Sale Extraordinaire to do some fall shopping! Items will be varied but all in usable shape. Proceeds from the sale will help support the team’s purchase of concussion-proof helmets, a necessary, yet expensive item. This yard sale is a “Can’t Miss” opportunity to find those items which you’ve been looking for, but can’t quite seem to find. Come on out on Saturday, October 29th from 8:30 AM -1:00 PM do some shopping, support a great cause, and just to say “Hey”!
8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: 735 Kirk Rd
See you there!
From Creative Loafing…
“Decatur has a new breakfast and lunch option near the Square. Out of the Pan, located at 105 Clairemont, serves value-priced Southern dishes with a rotating menu. Lunch plates (featuring comfort foods like fried chicken or sausage with peppers) ring in at only $5.99 and for breakfast you can get a full meal for just $4.99.”
I hadn’t heard anything about this…anyone know any other details?
I believe they took the spot where the two subsequent Jamaican places were, around the back side of the Masonic building. Haven’t tried them yet, though…
Oh yeah. I totally forgot about seeing this place opening up a couple weeks back.
Mr. Decatur Mom works in the Town II building, and has eaten there twice for lunch. He described it as a meat-and-three. He gave it two thumbs up.
I seriously need an alternative to Comcast for internet service. I don’t need TV or phone, just internet. Suggestions? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
You can get “naked” DSL from AT&T/Bellsouth without a landline phone.
AT&T Uverse is even better.
ok, is U-Verse that great? I have had several AT&T salespeople knock on my door lately. Always very nice, articulate folks trying to get me to switch. A guy came by tonight and said AT&T is offering major incentives this weekend. But the idea of switching everything over seems like too much work. We currently have Earthlink for internet and TV/HD/DVR thru Dish Network. I haven’t done any research into how much it all costs and if it’s worth it but the savings would have to be significant, I think, in order for me to switch and what they offer is would have to be fabulous.
You can keep your Earthlink email account for $5/month if you stop using them for Internet access. I have found it well worth $60/year not to abandon the old email address.
Satisfied customer here, so I say yes. Uverse has lightening speed downloads if anyone in your family is into that. Full movies in 10-15 mins over the net. As for the actual service, more channels with them than with the previous provider, (not random garbage channels, but things I watch). Haven’t looked back.
Not really sure how the Uverse thing works other than that they set it up and we magically have tv and interwebs so I’m not sure if you can unbundle those services. However, we have been pleasantly surprised with the speed and reliability of the internet service, in the Clairemont/Scott area at least.
Clear. They now offer home service, and it works great for me in downtown Decatur. For a much slower, but cheaper option, AT&T has standalone DSL for $20/month.
Plus DSL faster speeds – higher price. Still no landline required.
I have internet only Uverse. Works great.
uverse is by far the most reliable internet service I’ve had. If you are streaming Netflix, go for the 12mb or higher speed.
Want.
Skips right over my street.
No ETA from AT&T.
BOO.
Double BOO.
Weird. I think you live pretty near me and I have had it for two years and it’s been available for longer at my address
Yes, weird but that’s how Uverse is. I’ve even heard of house to house variances.
… live near me …
Good thing I’m not hiding behind a pseudonym … or am I? or should I? I DO like the Belgium bar @ Brickstore so maybe next time … you and me Nellie with DTR, J_T and more the merrier.
Hey At Home in Decatur. Yesterday I thought of you and your search for a “clean, well lighted place” to do some work outside the house. I think the new Cakes & Ale bakery is open until ten o’clock on weekdays. Free wifi, coffee, pastries.
Dancing Goats is nice too.
Dancing Goats is very nice, but closes around seven o’clock.
Yup, tried that!
Who knew?!!!! Will try them out soon! Hope they are ok with me stretching out an expensive scrumptious pastry and excellent latte for 3 hours!
But not Monday nights, right? They’re closed Mondays? Darn, Mondays are easy night to get babysitters.
Parker, I’m relieved to know I’m not the only one who has randomly thought AHID while out recently, and thanks for that reminder. I haven’t been in there yet because I forget it’s there. Hope you don’t mind if I thread jack from you for a sec.
I have switched from Java Monkey to Chocolate’ by Bicycle South. JM is closer, and I still go there, but as for having a good space to work, Chocolate’ is much better for that. It’s less in and out traffic there, more conducive to work. Plus, their couches are wonderful. The JM couches remind me of something I would have pulled off the street for free in college, they literally have little square pads on top of the seats. Just not feeling that.
I love Java Monkey and can’t imagine Decatur without it…but I think it is better for conversation or people watching than work. I agree with an earlier comment about Marlay House; the booths are private and they have good coffee if you don’t want alcohol.
Absolutely. After rereading that I didn’t really like the way I worded it. I do like their coffee/people, was just saying from strictly a work standpoint for me (I’m easily distracted). I actually stopped in for some coffee yesterday afternoon and got a 15 minute preview of some dude’s dissertation on the homosexuality of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I can appreciate quirky/people watching experiences with my tasty beverage, and they are perfect for that.
Oh no! I thought Chocolatte, or whatever the hell their name actually is, was my own little secret. Grrrr. Don’t tell anyone else!
Agnes Scott library..shhhh, don’t tell anybody.
….very low voice: how late are they open on weekdays and weekends….shhh….
The McCain library at ASC is open until 12:30 am during the week. You do have to check in to make sure it is okay for you to be there.
… visitors are welcome to use library facilities and materials for research and educational purposes, generally for limited periods of time depending on individual need.
Visitors are asked to introduce themselves at the circulation desk by presenting a valid picture ID and signing the visitor registry each time they use the library. A reference librarian will assist visitors in using the library’s resources as time and workload permit.
http://library.agnesscott.edu/services/visitors.htm
FUN EVENT TOMORROW NIGHT
Support DHS students
One Sweet Evening…
Saturday, October 29th • 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
North Decatur Presbyterian Church (near Melton’s)
Sample from over 20 different desserts and enjoy Javamonkey coffee
• • •
Music by the duet White Chocolate, senior Eron Smith, and
southeastern blues rocker (and former DHS student) Heather Luttrell!
• • •
Tickets: $5 for students (under 18), $8 for adults, $14 for couples
Available from members of the journalism staff or at the door
“And all the people of the lulled and dumbfound town are sleeping now.
Hush, the babies are sleeping, the farmers, the fishers, the tradesmen and pensioners, cobbler, schoolteacher, postman and publican, the undertaker and the fancy woman, drunkard, dressmaker, preacher, policeman, the webfoot cocklewomen and the tidy wives. Young girls lie bedded soft or glide in their dreams, with rings and trousseaux, bridesmaided by glow-worms down the aisles of the organ-playing wood….
You can hear the dew falling, and the hushed town breathing. Only your eyes are unclosed to see the black and folded town fast, and slow, asleep…”
I prefer to rage, rage against the dying of the light…
In other news, at least the Decatur High School football game was completed last night without parents running onto the field.
A heavy rain does wonders for dampening overreactions!
Anyone know the swimming teacher who used to advertise for the pool at the Holiday Inn? Any other lcoal swim teacher recs? #3 son is a natural J.Cousteau, but he is starting to outgrow the big tub.
College Heights kids will be trick or treating for UNICEF! Get your silver dollars ready!
I trick or treated for UNICEF once. I remember getting dimes and quarters from all the folks on my street until I got to one house where the woman told me she was sorry but that she “doesn’t give money to communists.” I was in second grade.
That’s so funny. I was just explaining to my kids about the history of UNICEF and Halloween collection because one of them didn’t understand why, in general, I don’t like soliciting, but I’m ok with collecting for UNICEF. I explained that lots of liberal parents where I grew up would send their kids out to collect for UNICEF but my parents wouldn’t do it. When my kids asked why not, I replied that they thought UNICEF was communist! There was a fine line between charity and communism back then!
WOW!
Sounds like a little off-base criticism to me. If you were an 8 year-old communist, shouldn’t you have been giving the money to the government or something? And why beg for anything when the gov’t pays you to drink potato vodka in old steel plants? Did you ask her any of these questions?
And while I appreciate the scarring that would have resulted from such an event, I’m not sure it’s enough to prevent kids from doing it now. Just prep them with replies for comments like that. Like, “good thing, because I don’t listen to fascists” and then wander into her house and scrounge the coach cushions. Of course, the classic flaming bag of poop is always an appropriate trump card as well.
I recently learned of a woman who works for the City of Decatur Schools as a crossing guard. Her husband died and he apparently left some really big tax bill (of his own) that is now potentially falling on her, and she cannot afford it. I think she might allegedly owe $7000 due to her husband’s activities.
Is there anyone out there – a tax lawyer, a CPA – who might be able to help her better understand her situation and what, if anything, she can do about it? She could really use an expert’s help. If you might be able to help her, likely on a pro bono basis, please contact me and I’ll forward your info onto her. Thanks, Nathan.Nobis at gmail.com
I don’t do this sort of work and would be committing malpractice if I tried. However, I know people who do and I’d be happy to see if any of them would be willing to assist. I’ll send you an email and see if I can hook her up with someone who can help.
Useful info for all…
GA State University has a free low income tax clinic that she may be eligible for. They work the situation out with the IRS, on the the client’s behalf.
http://law.gsu.edu/taxclinic/
But in the meantime, she needs to contact the IRS and ask to be put in non-collection status while she works it out. The interest continues to accrue, but they won’t garnish her wages.
Awesome! And who said DM was only good for finding lost dogs?!?
Looks to be just what she needs. She should contact them immediately. However, you can still send me her info in case that doesn’t pan out and I’ll see if I can hook her up with someone pro bono…
Has anyone been to the Harbour Bar? I can’t find much about it online other than their website.
We have – and we liked it. I have heard that the fried stuff is overly greasy. We just did the steamer things and salmon. Had some apps. We enjoyed it and will go back. Hubbs enjoyed the oysters. Very kid friendly.
Can vouch for the fried stuff– which, when we went, was decidedly not greasy. Delicious & fresh-tasting shrimp, and REAL HUSHPUPPIES!!! We’ll definitely be back.
We went to Harbour Bar Friday night and really enjoyed it. I had the Lobster Corn Chowder and it was excellent-lots of lobster meat and great flavor. My husband had the steamer basket with clams, mussels, oysters, and shrimp which was also very good. Great ambiance and decor. A nice option for Decatur if you like seafood (they also had hamburgers and a few other non-fish choices and a kids menu). Prices are reasonable for seafood. We hope they do well-we’ll definitely be back.
Thanks for the responses. I find it weird no one has yelped it yet. How does it compare to Six Feet Under (the closest similar restaurant I can think of…)?
Food compares very favorably. Harbour Bar is much smaller inside, however the outside deck and patio look like a lot of fun. It was raining Friday night so we didn’t sit outside, but it will be our preference in good weather. Has the same sort of informality and casualness of Six Feet Under.