Free-For-All Friday 11/5/10
Decatur Metro | November 5, 2010Feel free to use this post to make comments and ask questions about local issues not discussed here over the past week.
Comments close Monday.
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This week’s Free-For-All Friday is brought to you by Cakes and Ale…
Beginning November 2010, Cakes & Ale’s Pastry Chef, Cynthia is excited to offer her homemade pastries, sandwiches, and select cakes & cookies for pickup at our current location (254 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue). This offering is a prelude to our bakery, set to open in the spring of 2011 at the entry of the Marta Plaza in Decatur.
A choice of assorted pastries, sandwiches, and cookies/desserts will be made for pre-order and pickup each week, and a weekly menu will be posted online at www.cakesandalerestaurant.com. Pastries are all made fresh as is the bread for our sandwiches. We will also offer a seasonal salad and home made chips. Items must be ordered 24 hours in advance and held with credit card and are for pickup Tuesday – Friday.
For Thanksgiving, Cakes & Ale will offer pecan tarts, apple pies, and pumpkin spice bundt cake for pre-order to pick up on Wednesday, November 24.
To order, please call Cakes & Ale at 404-377-7994.
Latest from Decaturish
A couple of weeks ago I was complaining about cars blowing through the red light at Brower and Candler. Well, this week hubby was in the car as we attempted to make a left turn from Brower safely and sure nuff someone cruises through the red on Candler without slowing down or even blinking. I layed on the horn and they did slow down about 30 ft. past the light looking in their rearview and obviously confused. I looked at my husband and said “See what I mean? Happens almost everyday.” He promptly dialed the Decatur Police and explained the situation as I continued on to pick the kid up. On the way back from picking said kid up (literally 5 minutes later) we come back through the intersection and lo and behold one of Decatur’s finest is already there, out of his car, arms crossed, watching the intersection. I don’t know if he saw anyone running it, (I can’t imagine he didn’t),, but it was comforting to see how fast they responded. Once again, KUDOS to our great Decatur PD
Best fix: Get rid of that unnecessary light!
Yard Sale tomorrow from 9-2 @ 1170 Walker Dr. Lots of vintage clothes, furniture, toys, etc.
Thank you Cakes and Ale!
Anyone know when Ponce will actually be paved? I think it has been 2 weeks since they ripped it up, what are they waiting for??
I’ll second that question. And I’ll add: when are the sidewalks going to be finished as well along W. Ponce? It’s one thing for the cars to endure the giant bump(s) where the pavement ends into the scratched roadway, but it’s another for us runners who are forced to go around the cones (often onto the road) where the sidewalk corners are now giant holes (filled with water).
Does the unpaved road need to season for 3-4 weeks before it can be repaved? Just curious about it.
Slight update on my comment as I just drove down W. Ponce earlier and it appears that some of the sidewalk corners are repaired. So I suppose there is some progress taking place. Is it just me, or was W. Ponce fine prior to this construction? I can think of other places that could use a repaving or two (ahem, Sam’s Crossing).
How about this, runners? Run somewhere else until they fix it?
And explain to me why some runners will run on a busy road instead of the sidewalk?
My street– Adair — is a very busy street with two lanes of traffic and parking on one side and not enough room. So why do so many walkers and runners go into the street?
In my experience, concrete is much harder than asphalt, and therefore the road will absorb more of the impact of running. Also, some sidewalks have sections that are jutting out or have obstacles that can cause us to trip–or sidewalks just end. The most common reason I have to switch over to running on the road is because of a handful of parked cars in driveways that cannot pull up far enough, so the sidewalk is blocked. If your car can’t fit, why not park it on the street?
With all of that said I, for one, run on the side roads as much as possible (including Adair), but I will say that I move out of the way if there is oncoming traffic or it doesn’t seem safe. But you’ll see me jump right back on the street after the car passes. Or the construction passes.
This reminds me of a related question: why do so many cyclists eschew the bike path and ride on the road (along E. Howard, for example)? I’m all for road sharing, but it seems like taking the path would just be courteous.
I’ve brought this up many times. I do not make an effort to accommodate any cyclists who are riding NEXT to the path instead of ON the path.
Can you clarify your comment on this? Because “do not make an effort to accommodate” can be interpreted a number of ways. Some of which may border on being a threat.
I really don’t understand your hostility toward bikers. Isn’t because you get behind one and your are inconvenienced for 10 seconds as you’re rushing your kids to soccer practice? Are you perturbed that they run through stop signs (occasionally) and you feel they are getting away with something you are not?
Bikers , to my experience, do not run through stop signs “occasionally”. They do it all the time. Ditto for red lights. I’m waiting for a big court case wherein a biker tries to bring a case against a motorist when the biker was breaking the law and the motorist wasn’t.
No, it’s because riding a bicycle right next to the path is insulting and ridiculous. It’s there to be used, not just to take up space.
Bicycles, BY LAW, are recognized as vehicles just like automobiles and as such have as much right to be on the road as any other vehicle (and conversely are also subject to/supposed to follow the same rules of the road as automobiles).
Personally, I love bike paths, especially when riding with kids. I love places like Sanibel Island, Florida, where one can ride about anywhere on a designated bike path.
However, my cycling is really recreational in skill and speed, even when my destination is not recreational, e.g. work. My brother is a true serious cyclist who commutes exclusively by bike and rides daily in rain or snow, daylight and dark, just about anywhere. He maintains that bike paths are not a solution for commuting or serious cycle transportation–they are too slow, limited in scope, don’t connect well with other streets, often inadequately maintained, and cluttered with pedestrians, strollers, and weaving recreational riders who don’t know standard cycling rules of the road, He can cycle as fast as most vehicles on surface streets with 35 mile/hour speed limits and it would both slow him down and be dangerous for him to hop on and off of bike paths during his transportation routes. Now, best I know, my brother follows the rules of the road just like he is in an automotive vehicle. But, the other kind of “serious cyclist” is the sports cyclist who rides in packs of extremely conditioned cycliists who are riding for sport, not transportation. The latter are the folks who are probably annoying everyone. They are so focussed on speed, competition, drafting one another, etc. that they ignore the fact that they are on public roads with rules. They would be less intrusive if they would get their kicks at a velodrome or way out in the country where there’s no dense traffic. But it would probably take a lot of enforcement of traffic laws to change the culture of sports cyclists.
I’m occasionally guilty of running down Adair St., not on the sidewalk, but I always hug the curb. If there is an uneven sidewalk, I’m guaranteed to trip on it. Seriously, I’m a danger to myself if the ground is at all uneven.
I’ll third that question!! Goodness! When WILL West Ponce be completed? I’ve seen at least 2 other road projects of the exact same type of work be started and completed in a week’s time and on longer stretches of road no less! What’s the hold up on W. Ponce?!
DM–you should put together a coffee table book with all the cool “eye on the street” submissions!
‘Tis a good idea. Actually the idea that EOTS is modeled off of – Andrew Sullivan’s “The View From Your Window” – has a coffee table book as well.
I guess it wouldn’t be too hard to self-publish, right?
go for it…i would totally buy one!
I used Blurb last year for Christmas gifts and was very pleased with the ease of creation and quality of the book. Email me if you want more details. I would totally buy a book.
Blurb is great. Would use again.
Can I ask a cautionary question? I don’t mean to nay-say and I think the book is a nice idea.
When people send you their photos, do they release their (financial or other) interest in them? Is there a notice on your blog to this effect? I ask because you wouldn’t want to publish the book and then have someone claim that they are entitled to a share of whatever profits there are because you used an image they believe they own.
It’s a drag to consider such things. But it would be worse to have to pay an attorney to defend such a lawsuit. People have sued over less.
If it’s presently unclear as to who “owns” the photos once they are sent to you, perhaps you could clarify and then use the photos you receive from that point forward? A stitch in time saves nine.
No absolutely a good point. We do include this on the Eye on the Street submission page “by sending your photos, you grant DM full rights to publish and edit as we see fit.” However, I’m not sure that’s enough.
you’d probably want to make it more clear before going forward with it. “publish” on website is very different from “publish” in a book. I know you’re not planning to make money off the book, but theoretically one could (you can charge on sites like Blurb, where I have my photo books), and that wasn’t the point when emailing you photos to post for free on the website… not trying to complain loudly, but just a thought, since that wasn’t clear that photos would be published besides on a website.
Understood. I don’t have the free time to do this anyway, but if I did I would probably go back and ask everyone individually whether they were willing to have their picture in a book.
It’d be super cool to have a DM community bookcase & rotating EOTS display! Instant good karma- and foot traffic- for the supporting business. (Photogs can opt in/out.)
I hope the dream of a community bookcase is eventually realized.
Cheap iPhone screen repair? Official repair, coincidentally, approximates the cost of a new phone, but rumor has it there’s a cheap fix available in Litte 5 Points. 3GS
There’s a sign on the sidewalk for cracked screen repair near Euclid and Colquitt, between the light at Colquitt and the Yacht Club, same side of street as Yacht Club. There also are on-line tutorials on how to do it but it looks hard.
Thanks! That must be the place.
Try CPR (Cell Phone Repair)–there’s a branch near Northlake. I recently broke the screen on my blackberry and well-intentioned husband bought two replacement screens trying to fix it himself. Broke the first screen, second screen was defective. Finally took it to CPR and they fixed it for $130 (inc. cost of new screen) in about 15 minutes. They are awesome!
Ok. Soon to be Neighbor is ready to be an _actual_ neighbor. We’re ready to buy a house and we’re looking for an excellent real estate agent. Wish list: someone who:
1. specializes in the city of Decatur, natch;
2. has a lot of knowledge about the different neighborhoods; and
3. is honest and hard working.
Sounds easy enough, right? So, who’s really good?
Thanks in advance.
Stacy Reno with Roost Realty has helped us buy several different properties! She is fantastic! 404-441-7829 She is also a City of Decatur resident and knows the area very well.
Stacy is a wonderful person! I second this.
Emilie Markert with ReMax…she’s been here about a hunnert years!
Oh, and welcome to Decatur!
Randy Brazee and Jonathan Huff at Keller Williams – (404) 271-1378-
did a great job for us, and their office is right in 315 West Ponce.
Stacy Reno is fabulous. I also recommend Sean Dammann and Jeff Goddard. http://www.seandammann.com/index.html. Jeff helped us find our house in Oakhurst, and now we live across the street from Stacy!
Weslee Knapp at Keller Knapp. As someone in the client service business myself, I had really high expectations for an agent. Weslee exceeded them all. (678) 358-4321 is his cell, I believe. You will not be disappointed.
Another vote for Stacy Reno. She is also really good with rental properties in the area.
Welcome to Decatur!
I highly recommend Realsource Brokers. The Keen brothers are great and they take a lower commission than most realtors. (404) 270-9374
I have a neighbor with a great house in Winnona Park that she wants to sell. If you are comfortable leaving contact information on DM. I will e-mail you the info. It on a great street within walking distance of our fine elementary school.
Or you can send me contact info and I can pass it along. Either way.
I have a coworker who is looking to see her house in Oakhurst. (She loves the area but is moving to SC for work.) It’s a 3/2 within walking distance to the Oakhurst Square and the community garden. The house is in great condition and has a large backyard. I’m happy to pass along the info if you’re interested.
Hey All! Thanks for the Decatur love!
I know and like many of the suggestions above. Also Nora Levesque.
Thanks Demanda! Stacy is great. So is Emilie. I think we are pretty good too. All of us are local. Welcome to Decatur…. I hope you love festivals, good beer and Realtors:)
Danielle Belva with Atlanta Intown. She is the best. Have used her twice, and I have recomended her to friends who used her also.
Mary Rigger at Karafotias was the BEST real estate agent EVER! Not only does she know the market, she has contacts and found me a fabulous mortgage, a fabulous home inspector, fabulous insurance agent and then negotiated some deals for me. She truly went above and beyond the call of duty. I can’t say enough about Mary Rigger.
Natalie Gregory — I was on the other side of a transaction with her but I was still impressed with her professionalism.
How did the Brick Store get it’s moniker?
It’s made of straw? sticks? you feel like a brick when you leave at 2am?
Pretty sure there was a large, ill-tempered wolf involved as well.
It actually used to be a store that sold bricks….
Honestly, I think it’s an American spelling conversion:
“La brique est un parallépipède rectangle de terre argileuse crue et séché au soleil ou cuite au four, utilisé comme matériau de construction.”
The kids and I went to the Square Pub on Tuesday to try out the menu and were very pleased with it! We started with the Fried Green Tomato Caprese salad which was fabulous. Then I had the spinach salad with goat cheese, pecans, cranberries and pears, which was delicious and the perfect portion size.
The kids menu is exactly what my kids are looking for. It features recognizable dishes that don’t throw them off with some little twist. The grilled cheese sandwich is a grilled cheese sandwich. The cheese burger is as advertised. I know that some places feel the need to show their creativity on the kids menu, but my kids are never happy with that. But don’t think the establishment is lacking in creativity – I think the Fried Green Tomato Caprese stands testament to that.
Stop by and support this new addition to the Decatur landscape!
More Food Thoughts –
Also ate at Square Pub last weekend, everything was good (also loved the spinach salad) and the beer was good and the service was perfect.
Gave Garlic a second chance this week. Won’t be back. Again about a third of what we ordered was not edible and no one checked back during the meal to ask.
What’s status on the Diner??? Anyone know?
The Yumbii truck will be in Oakhurst this Sunday. Deliciousness awaits you! Here’s a shameless plug for the event lucky enough to get the Yumbii truck:
Junktique to Benefit Oakhurst Elementary
Mark your calendars: Come join the fun on Sunday, November 7th from noon to 6 p.m. at the 2nd Annual Junktique at the Solarium in Oakhurst Village to benefit Oakhurst Elementary. We’ll have a collectibles yard sale, a “For Kids By Kids” yard sale (bring your piggy bank money!), and an artists’ bazaar. There will be live music, kids’ activities by Color Wheel, and plenty of food and beverages from Souper Jenny, Yumbii, and King of Pops. You can even bring your dog – there will be a professional photographer taking pet portraits! Bring the family and spend a beautiful fall day in Oakhurst. For more information, go to http://www.junktiquedecatur.com . We hope to see you there!
Thanks, RenfroeMom! We’re excited for Yumbii too!
Just wanted to let folks know we also have a raffle $5 raffle which includes an owl sculpture by Oakhurst parent Scott Strader (photo – http://yfrog.com/5tzbaj), a Stagg Guitar Beginners Set and a party at Leapin’ Lizards! Raffle tickets will be sold at the event. We also added 3 more bands to our line up!
12:00-12:30 Pete Lim
12:30-1:30 Book Club
1:30-2:30Banjolicious
2:30-3:30 Richard Parsons
3:30-4:30 Lindsay Appel
4:30-5:30 Slim Chickens
Thanks to all our sponsors and parents who are helping to make our event a rocking good time! See you at the Solarium on Sunday.
Forgot a space there in the image link: http://yfrog.com/5tzbaj
Thanks!
Re; The Diner – I had dinner at Noodle one night this week and when walking by The Diner I noticed a smallish sign near the bottom of their door. It was a City of Decatur Code Violation written on 9/24. It reads “Permit on Hold, Stop All Work.” I know this doesn’t really tell what is going on, but at least we know why nothing is happening.
omg when will it opennnn???????
We also went to the Square Pub and loved it. Good option for families – it’s affordable and has some cool menu items like Frito Pie.
Service was excellent, and one of the owners (Bob, formerly of Taco Mac) was very involved in making sure we enjoyed our visit, while asking for feedback on anything at all they could improve.
Two thumbs up from TeeRuss. We will be going back often.
Did you say Frito Pie? I’m there.
Frito Pie. And tater tots with a coating of cheese and green chilis for an app — that may sound gruesome but I thought the plate was going to be licked clean by the time it was over.
I guess I am way late on this.. since it’s been months since “Our Way Cafe” was the scene of a fire, but did it close permanently as a result? I don’t get over to Avondale Estates much these days!
I ran into one of the owners, Jody, at Twains a few weeks back. He was selling his share to his partner, that was going to reopen, I think before the end of the year. He indicated that the format was going to be something new. I drove by there for the first time about 2 weeks ago and the are doing work on it. Don’t know much more than that.
There are renovations going on in the Our Way space now—they’ve added what looks like an indoor/outdoor eating area in the front and are rearranging the inside.
Is Chocolate Bar out of business?
We tried to go there last Saturday. The sign on the door says they open at 4, and their website says they open at 3. We go there at 4:15. Not open. Ran down to the cd store and CVS and came back at 4:45, still not open. We waited around thinking maybe they’d open at 5. Nope. As we waited, several other customers showed up and gave up.
So, we went to Watershed for some chocolate cake and on the way back to the car at 6 pm we noticed Chocolate Bar was still not open.
I tried to email them afterwards, but, SHOCKER, the contact link on their website did not work.
They were open Thursday night with several customers.
I guess I better cash in my Groupon before they go under due to inept management.
We went there with the Groupon coupon a couple of weeks ago, about 25 minutes before closing time, and were hugely disappointed. Sloooow service (we sat for 20 minutes with nobody coming over to our table, until I finally went to the counter), followed by an announcement that the kitchen was already closed (OK), followed by another looooong wait to have the guy behind the counter wrap up the various bob-bons and other desserts we had ordered to go (we had hoped to dine in but couldn’t wait any longer because of our babysitter). And then it turned out the food was so-so anyway–I’ve gotten far better desserts at the Dekalb Farmers market for about 1/4 the price pf Chocolate Bar.
Never going back.
In their defense, we used a Groupon there once before (in June or July) and it was a very generous offer. $10 for a voucher that gave us two big glasses of wine, one large piece of cake and several truffles. We were more than happy with the wine and dessert. The service was a little slow, but nowhere near as bad as you experienced.
It’s too bad that they seem to be falling apart.
Chocolate Bar is the most under-achieving business in Decatur, IMO.
For those of you still wanting Decatur Metro’s sweet “There’s A Festival For That” tees in long sleeve, short sleeve, ladies, and youth, come on down to Decatur Screenprint at 340 W. Ponce de Leon (upstairs) to get yours today. Open ’til 7pm. Makes a great gift!
Also, last home game for Decatur High tonight. Get your DHS spiritwear here. Proceeds support the Decatur High Bulldog Boosters.
Any hoodie’s?
Seconded. I have four in our household that would buy ‘em.
Cool! I thought homecoming was the last home game. Thanks! We play Lovett at 7:30. DHS stadium, per
http://dhs.csdecatur.net/athletics/football
Please remember this weekend is the Junior League of DeKalb County’s 21st Annual Bargain Bazaar at the gym of Decatur First Baptist (308 Clairemont)
Doors open at 8 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. on Saturday, November 6 and from 1 pm to 4 p.m. on Sunday, November 7.
There are many treasured items to be uncovered at this indoor sale of gently used items, including Children and Baby Items, Linens, Books and Gadgets, House Wares, Appliances, Furniture and much, much more!
This annual fundraiser helps JLD to fund initiatives that are dedicated to improving the lives of men, women and children in DeKalb County.
This may be more of a rant than a question, but I’ll give it a shot anyway. Is anyone else annoyed with the draft beer pricing/sizing at the local establishments? As a value conscious consumer (i.e. cheapskate), I try to patronize the places that generally provide the most for the dollar, while still providing comfortable atmosphere and good service. There are three issues that are weighing on me at the moment.
1. Tax – Included or not included? I guess I should just assume it is not included, since that seems to be the practice at most places. It does become an annoyance when a person just wants to order a drink from the bar and pay immediately. The list price of $4.75 becomes $5.08 or $5.00 becomes $5.35, and if you don’t carry coins it becomes an inconvenience for the server. Thinking about it now though, I will probably just leave $6 total with tip in any case. The only one getting less is the server.
2. Glass Sizing – At some point I felt Raging Burrito had the best beer value in town. However the last couple of visits I have been served in a glass that was obviously less than a pint (16oz). The first time I thought it was a special beer that had its own preferred glass type. The second time I was annoyed to find this same glass used for a Dale’s Pale Ale, which I don’t think warrants any special stemware. I’m guessing it is a 14oz glass. Does anyone know if they are serving all their drafts in this same glass?
Last week I stopped by the new Square Pub with a friend. He was convinced that the glasses being used were also less than 16oz in size. Although they were shaped like a typical pint glass, he thought they were a little narrow. Unlike the Brick Store, neither the Square Pub nor Raging Burrito list the draft sizes on the menu. Do I need to start taking a measuring cup with me? I could just ask, but I’m a little shy and don’t want to offend the staff or look a little silly.
3. Pitchers – I like the convenience and value of pitchers. I think all pubs should have that option, and not just for some beers (Zucca).
I know I’m probably nit-picking, but that is what I do. I was wondering if anyone else had similar observations and might offer some insight. Thanks for reading my rant.
It would probably be a lot easier to just drink beer at home..
As a beer snob, I shudder at the thought of pitchers for my craft brew. Another option: Homebrew! It’s fun and cheaper. I have a black IPA and a porter on draft right now. You are welcome to sample anytime (and in any glass you want!).
Decatur pubs may not be for you if you’re looking for a value. A better choice might be The Midway in EAV or Manuels on N. Highland.
McGowen’s in Oakhurst has great Pints for $5 and $6 and include some awesome craft beers. They are also generous with letting you taste several beers before you commit!
Yes, but its sister Palate uses a “measuring” glass to pour you a glass a wine.
i very much appreciate that the BrickStore lists sizes and percentages for all their beers. I totally agree with you JasonR, it makes me angry to be served a light pint. And I don’t agree with the comment on prices being better elsewhere, I patronize establishments all over the city and decatur pubs have good prices. I was just at the Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge and was charged $6 for a Guinness served in a 12 oz plastic cup. I was appalled.
You are not the only one concerned with this.
http://honestpintproject.org/
I had heard of this site years ago.
Nothing certified in Georgia yet.
Beer is approaching the point that movies passed about 5 years ago — not worth the price any more. Most of these places would double their business if they cut their beer prices to $4 for a real pint. But I think even that is a lot for a beer.
Thank you for the replies and thoughtful discussion. My rant was more of a “principle of the thing” musing than an outcry for “where is the cheapest beer?”. I was primarily focused on places within walking distance of my home.
I’m sure I will be content with the variety pack of “Heavy Seas” I bought for tomorrow’s tailgate.
I agree with the “principle of the thing” approach. One night I had three pints of Highland Oatmeal Porter in downtown Decatur- $3 at El Tesoro (16oz), $5.25 at Tmac (20oz since I already have my big mug) and $6.75 at Cakes and Ales (16 oz.).
All of the beer prices in ATL are inflated….I was in DC and the most expensive craft beer that I had was $5 for a 20oz……plus they have happy hour (but don’t get me started on Georgia’s antiquated rules on that).
I agree though that Raging Burrito kept their super low prices but their glass sized reduced accordingly.
What are Georgia’s rules on happy hour? I actually don’t know
The Georgia rule on happy hour is that it cannot be a reduced price for a certain period of time for alcoholic beverages. For example, you cannot have a $2 beer special from 6-8PM. The reduced price has to be offered for the entire day. And, the product put on special cannot be something that you carry on your regular menu.
wow. Time to hassle the lawmakers this coming session.
It’s not as inflated as New York. I paid $8 for a Miller High Life in a Brooklyn bar a couple months ago. 8 DOLLARS.
I was in San Fran a couple weeks ago and was astounded at the cheap beer prices relative to ours – in one of the most expensive cities in North America to boot. I was getting full pint craft beers and Guinness for $3-4 almost everywhere. And they use real pint glasses.
Since no one else has suggested them, let me offer up Mojo’s, which has decent beers on draft and lots of good specials on certain nights of the week. And they have pitchers. Thinking Man pours an honest pint, and they have the bohemian choice (Natty Lite, PBR, etc.) rotating tap for $2. And finally, there’s Taco Mac (I know, I know – “booo. hissss”). Once you hit 125 beers in their Brewniversity club you get a 20 oz beer for the 16 oz price. I’m 12 beers away from my PhD.
Every time I drive by Fellini’s, they have a sandwich board out front promoting some ridiculously great pitcher deal. I’m not sure if they have something up right now, but in the last couple months I saw both Blue Moon and Yuengling for $5/pitcher. Yowsa.
I think you’re right about the pitchers — it seems especially convenient if you have a small group and want something delicious. However, there could be some ridiculous laws on the books that limit the volume that can be served at a time for beers over a certain ABV%.
Also, I think Twain’s has $10 pitcher deals for their stuff on weekends right now.
Kick In The Fit sponsored last week’s Friday Free for all and I am SO GLAD they did! I hadn’t even thought about joining a boot camp but for some reason I was inspired on that Friday to join their morning classes. I don’t run, I don’t work out, I drink too much red wine and I have an 11 month old. this is not something I was looking forward to!
I completed my first full week this morning and it has been a great experience. Has it been easy? no. Have I shed some tears? yes. but it is slowly getting easier and the soreness is starting to go away.
The instructors are wonderful and are letting me work at my own pace even if that means I’m the slowest one out there. I’m competing with myself at this time and I’m looking forward to the day I can keep up with the entire pack! This is a physical and emotional challenge for me and after one week 1 can see it will be a positive experience that will produce results.
Kick In The Fit is recommended!
Elizabeth <—-felt quite accomplished after running 3 miles in the rain on Thursday!
Kudos to Friday Free for All sponsors. Glad the Kick in the Fit boot camp is working for you. Hope they see your comments!
Let’s talk about dirty al fresco…
Am I the only one who thinks Decatur’s outdoor eating areas are unappetizingly dirty? In Italy, the sidewalk cafes are washed down every night. I was in Seaside FL and the same.
The area around Starbucks is the worst — not to mention the garbage pile on our main thoroughfare.
How about a downtown assessment district to give someone a sidewalk washing job?
Agreed. Granted al fresco season is nearly over, I also wish for cleaner sidewalks especially on The Square. Take some pride.
I thought I was hallucinating last night, but sure enough, there are Christmas wreaths and lights up in Decatur.
I noticed that too. At first, I scoffed, ‘it’s only November 5th.’ Then I surmised, ‘you know, it is kinda purty.’
I had the identical reaction. “Early…wait….PRETTY!” And hey, Hanukkah starts December 1 this year…
Remember, remember the 5th of November…
The city gets a break on installation cost by doing it early.
Just another case of city hall watching out for your tax dollar.
oops. Missed Steve’s comment below.
BY having the decorations put up early, the City get a much better price for the work.
Fascinating. I thought it was the DBB wanting to get shoppers in the mood early. It really isn’t early compared to retailers. CVS had its Xmas candy and decorations out on the shelves, the day after Halloween.
Hey neighbors! If you haven’t been to Iberian Pig or you have and love it, I know of a way you can enjoy the food and give back at the same time. They will host the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s Supper Club fundraiser next Tuesday, Nov. 9. Just stop by for dinner and 20% of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the Food Bank.
Hope to see you there!
Anyone know where we can donate Halloween candy? I really need to get it out of my house!!
I heard there are groups collecting candy to send to the troops.
St Thomas More will take it for the guests at the Veterans Hospital. Cate MIller, the art teacher is collecting it. I don’t think they send chocolate to the troops because of the melting.
Anybody have any tips regarding how to approach the Wine Festival? I take it the atmosphere is quite different from that of the Beer Festival.
Are crowds a problem? Should we plan on getting there early? Do we need to bring anything other than our tickets and a warm jacket? (I assume pretzel necklaces might look out of place at this one . . .)
See, it WILL be more sophisticated than the Beer Fest, wow.
Sure, happy to help.
There will be two gates into the festival, one at the south end of East Court Square; the other at the north end of North McDonough. Tickets are scanned and proof of age checked at the gate, you’ll get a wristband which allows in/out access. Be sure to bring some ID.
Gates open at 1:00 p.m.
Upon entry you’ll be given your tasting glass, a guide to which wines are at which tables, and a pen in case you wish to take notes.
Pretzel necklaces are always appropriate.
Yes it will be crowded, but not nearly as many people as at beer fest. 2000 tickets are sold.
Fifteen restaurants will be on hand, giving away samples of their cuisine. These are samples, however, not meals, so I suggest you have a good brunch or lunch before attending. No food is sold within the festival itself.
There is music all day from the bandstand.
Just northeast of the bandstand you’ll see a tent where raffle tickets will be for sale. The raffle prizes are great, two years ago we went home with a huge bottle of Cambria Chardonnay. The proceeds from the raffle go to the Decatur Youth Fund. Raffle tickets are drawn throughout the afternoon when the bands take their breaks.
Parking at the county deck is convenient and free.
If you want to plan your strategy ahead of time, there’s a list of the wines and the participating restaurants on the festival’s website: http://www.decaturwinnefestival.com . 450 wines!
Beyond that, it’s all pretty straightforward, you’ll spend a few hours on the square trying new wines, see a lot of people you know, talk to a lot of people you don’t know, nibble some treats, and maybe go home with a ridiculously large bottle. And bask in the good feeling that you are supporting the arts and arts education in Decatur via the Decatur Arts Alliance.
Lots of people hang out after and go directly to nearby restaurants for dinner, which is fun.
i volunteer for this event so I am enthusiastic, it’s lots of fun.
This is quite possibly the most friendly, non-confrontational and neighborly Free-for-All Friday I’ve ever witnessed. Thanks, everyone, for making it so, especially after weeks of the one of the nastiest political climates I’ve ever had the misfortune to witness. This is one of the countless reasons why Decatur is the best city in Georgia.
Oh, and Cub Scout pack/Boy Scout troop 175 will be at Decatur Cemetery tomorrow morning planting American flags at all the soldiers’ graves. Feel free to come out and remember Veteran’s Day.
See there, DTR, with kind words like that you must be a closeted Democrat. (By the way, is your avatar Reagan or Nixon? I can’t form a complete stereotype of you without knowing.)
Bite your tongue, Chad!
That’s Reagan in my avatar. Let the stereotyping begin.
OUR CAT, LUCY, REMAINS MISSING IN THE AREA SINCE 10/21. SHE IS A GRAY TIGER/TABBY, SMALL(ISH), LONG-HAIRED AND VERY FRIENDLY. SHE HAD A RED/WHITE COLLAR/TAG WITH ID, BUT I THINK IT CAME OFF. IF YOU SEE HER, PLEASE CALL. OR, IF YOU HAVE A GARAGE, BASEMENT/CRAWL SPACE, WOULD YOU MIND CHECKING? AT THIS POINT, WE ARE LOOKING FOR ANY POSSIBLE CLUES. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
JENNIFER, 678.488.5232
The Lenox Place area has coyotes. Are you in this neighborhood?
I’ve lost two cats to coyotes. I hope you find your kitty
I believe the current count is 2 different coyotes as of right now. I know people have seen them at the end of melrose.
Thanks for your reply and to all of you who wrote back about Lucy, our lost cat. Yes…I live on Hibernia that dead ends into Lenox Place and have heard of the coyotes. Have literally canvassed all of Decatur on foot and bike, and pretty much everyone in the neighborhood and beyond has an eye out for her. Certainly, a coyote incident is possible, and honestly, the easiest for me to stomach at this point, knowing she isn’t suffering. I have been deep into that ravine looking for her collar or any trace at all…nothing. I still have hope, but it’s sad to lose an animal and never know. In fact, one of you knew your cats were lost to coyotes…how did you confirm it?
Jennifer- Keep the faith that your precious Lucy is waiting to be found. Folks just can’t tell when a cat is lost like they can tell with a dog. Cats DO turn up after an adventure. Exhausted & dehydrated maybe, but alive! Even in coyote areas. ( Helped one get home who’d obviously gotten herself shut in somewhere for a long time. She avoided all our area coyotes- just not the door!) My best wishes for you both.
* If you live near Sam’s Crossing, there’s a fiercely devoted cat rescuer named Cliff who’s determined to reunite/get word to every pet owner. Call Dearborne Animal Hospital (404-377-6477) and ask to be put in contact w/ him.
P.S. Yes…thanks to Cakes & Ale. Been there a number of times…love it.
Dear Tax Payers of Decatur City,
You paid a high price to have Glenlake Park overhauled, and Oh how nice it is!! Your tax dollars went to sodding a great deal of land there, and now SADLY….. the soccer parents are parking on that sod AND KILLING IT!
Yes lovely tax payers, these soccer parents are driving right up on the paved BIKE & PEDESTRIAN paths and parking on the very expensive sod.
MEANWHILE….. on Church Street, two lanes of this road have been shut down for a couple of years now for extra parking at the park, and GUESS WHAT??? Nobody is parking on Church Street.
Glenlake Park is a “Park” not a “Parking Lot”.
Right???
That’s pretty infuriating. Are these soccer parents Decatur residents or visitors, or a combination? Whatever the case, I hope that (1) someone has the gumption to ask them respectfully and firmly to park where they are supposed to park, and (2) alerting the City via appropriate channels.
Yes, it is infuriating. I’m pretty sure they are Decatur parents since the soccer kids are playing their Saturday morning rec games.
Yes, I plan to put in a request for some “No Parking on Grass” signs from the city. Would anyone happen to know “who” the appropriate channels are?
I’d start with the Active Living folks – it’s their property.
Thanks! I will post progress updates (if any) hopefully next Free-For-All Friday.
Fall soccer season is over now!
To be fair, not all Decatur Rec participants are Decatur residents. Non-Decatur residents can do Rec activities too and often the youth sports have non-resident kids sign up. They just pay the higher non-resident fee. On the other hand, if all the parents are doing it, there’s bound to be some residents in that group.
Ticket the whole lot–doesn’t matter whether they are residents or not. Make em pay.
You are right, I can’t assume that they are Decatur residents, but at any rate, the point is that the soccer spectators should not be driving their vehicles on the bike/pedestrian paths and parking on the grass in the park. I’m glad to hear the city is aware of this issue, and I look forward to seeing some signs posted, and maybe a friendly reminder in neighborhood newsletters.
The City is aware of the problem and you should see some signage out there soon. Please help to encourage your friends and neighbors to park on Church Street or in the cemetery- there is a great little cut through from the cemetery to the park.
Observation from the peanut gallery: Maybe worthwhile for someone who has actually witnessed it occurring, to send polite but firm reminders to every n’hood newsletter and listserve in town. If people need a smack in the head, so be it, otherwise, we just can’t have nice things!
Next time you witness it happening, just call Decatur PD. I’ve seen them dispatch patrol cars for less.
Hi Decatur Heights Neighbors!
Neighbors Meeting Thurs, Nov 11th
7pm @ The Church at Decatur Heights
Our focuses:
-street improvements petitions launch
-presentation on setting up a Neighborhood Watch
-expanding neighborhood communications
Hope you can come join in!
Just wanted to point out that there is a sign in front of Sunrise stating there will be road work on “C-MOUNT” beginning Nov. 12th. So if you know where “C-MOUNT” is located, please be warned.
There’s one on Clairemont heading in the other direction by the tire place and First Baptist. I assume C-Mount is Clairemont or Clairmont. Right?
Yep. I just thought the abbreviation was funny.
I had an unusual wildlife sighting this week. Driving south on Sycamore just south of the daycare I saw a deer run across the road. It looked like he either jumped over or on a Honda Element that was heading toward me. He bounced into the bushes on the east side of the street.
Dang! Our neighborhood’s just a black bear away from a full Ga wildlife roll call this year!
I predict you’ve Jinxed us! Stay tuned on the news this weekend folks! Black Bears everywhere!
Last one i remember was one roaming around gwinnett place mall parking lot a few years back ?
Hee! Not a jinx- a lure! Making us a Decatur tourist attraction!
(Decatur Heights: Wild neighbors-wildlife!)
So did anyone figure out what this new business that’s coming this month is? the one named as XXXXXX?
has anyone seen the commercial for Call of Duty Black Ops with jimmy kimmel and kobe bryant? hilarious!
here’s a link for those who haven’t seen it on tv yet-
http://kotaku.com/5682024/kobe-kimmel-are-killing-it-in-call-of-duty-black-ops-ad
That is awesome– but this one’s my favorite:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZcNXe20dXI&feature=player_embedded
Was supposedly banned here in the US, but I can’t really imagine why, since there’s so much worse that gets through…
Two yums up for the pastries at the German Bakery. Try their apple fritters and the doughnuts are heavenly.
For those of you still looking for your Jin Jin replacement, we tried Hot Wok in Suburban plaza and found it to be very Jin Jin like
Decatur High School Close Up Club and the Academy (American spelling, not British- Sorry) of the Oaks won award/prize money at the Dearborn Park/Renewal Cleanup today. Students from these schools competed against twelve other teams, mainly adults, but still managed to place in the top three teams. I believe the other winning team came from Decatur First Methodist Church (Maybe there’s something in the water?). What a great day to volunteer in the City of Decatur!
Congratulations to all the teams that participated today. It was a great day for Dearborn Park, Renewal Design, young people, and the City of Decatur.
Don’t forget the folks who marked the veterans in Decatur Cemetery today.
Thanks for the shout-out, Steve. Our scouts spent about two hours yesterday planting American flags at each of the veterans’ grave sites. I encourage everyone to go through the cemetery, see all the flags, and spend just a bit of time in rememberance.
In case you missed it, the winners of the Best Bites awards at the Decatur Wine Festival were Capozzi’s-Decatur, Farmstead 303, and The Marlay House.