FOLIO reports that over $250,000 in donations have saved Decatur-based Paste Magazine from folding.  And according to an email from publisher Nick Purdy, things are looking up.

“We’ve published two issues since the campaign began, sent a third to the printer and are seeing advertising pick up for the fall and expect to be around for a long time,” publisher Nick Purdy wrote in an e-mail to FOLIO:. The campaign officially closes this month, he said.

Wow…is it just me or is $250,000 an incredible amount of money to have raised?

Great news!  Keep on keepin’ on Paste.

h/t: InDecatur

Asst. Superintendent Thomas Van Soelen replied to my question about Renfroe’s attendance rate attached to AYP with this note, which was also just posted over on CSD’s website…

The Georgia Department of Education has released the list of schools that made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for 2008-2009. For the initial determination Renfroe is not being shown as making AYP. While the academic successes of Renfroe Middle School merit a status of meeting AYP, an error in reporting attendance rate to the state has delayed this announcement.

City Schools of Decatur has submitted an official appeal and will provide the needed data to show that the attendance rate at Renfroe meets state standards. We fully expect that this situation will be rectified by the second AYP release date in September. Meanwhile, we celebrate the accomplishments of students and teachers at Renfroe and look forward to another year of meeting academic standards!

Decatur kids clothing store, Wiggle, has this note in this week’s issue of the DBA newletter…

Attention Shoppers! Mark your calendars for this Friday, July 17. The annual Wiggle summer half-off sale begins at 9am sharp! All spring and summer clothing will be discounted 50% off. Our fabulous sale runs through Wednesday, July 22. After Wednesday, all clothing will move to the Children’s Boutique Warehouse Sale (July 24-25) – so shop early for best selection!

With all the recent, heightened concern about crime within the city limits, this 8 week program offered by our police and fire departments seems more apt than ever.

Decatur PD’s Communication’s Director, Juanchella Francis sends along this note giving the details.

The Citizens Public Safety Academy (CPSA) is an exciting way to learn about police work and how the community can respond to emergencies. Through a well-prepared curriculum, taught once a week for 8 weeks, students will learn about all aspects of police operations. Academy participants will meet many of the men and women who serve in the Decatur Police and Fire Departments as they explain the functions of patrol officers, investigators, administrators, and firefighters. Academy participants will also learn how officers are trained and how one can protect against crime and fire hazards. Interesting demonstrations will illustrate the many skills and abilities police officers and fire fighters must have to effectively protect Decatur.

An important and exciting phase of the Academy is the opportunity to leave the classroom and view police work first hand by riding with patrol officers. [editor's note: There is also a tour of the DeKalb jail.]

Applicants must submit to a limited background investigation by the Decatur Police Department that will include a check of criminal history and driving record. Individuals who do not meet the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Council standards will not be accepted into the CPSA program. Read the rest of this entry »

Thinking about holding a community function or meeting, but can’t find enough space in your cramped bungalow living room for all your energetic guests?

Well, were you aware that as a Decatur resident you can reserve the Solarium for a Community Center event or program at Old Scottish Rite free of charge?

The Community Center’s Marketing Chair, Peter Martin, recently wrote in hoping to get the word out.

So here’s the lowdown, straight off the Community Center’s website…

Who is eligible to utilize The Solarium for a Community Center program or event?

Any person or group may use The Solarium as long as:

* It is for a public event, free of charge, and open to the entire Decatur community.

* The event has no or extremely low impact to The Solarium’s building and grounds.

* The event does not conflict with any prescheduled events or booked rentals.

What are the costs?

Read the rest of this entry »