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    Free-For-All Friday 2/11/11

    Decatur Metro | February 11, 2011

    Feel free to use this post to make comments and ask questions about local issues not discussed here over the past week.

    Comments close on Monday.

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    Free-for-all Friday
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    Free-for-all Friday

    « On the Set of the Jennifer Garner Movie Decatur Diner Actually Quite Close to Opening »

    142 Responses to “Free-For-All Friday 2/11/11”

    1. Billy says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:00 am

      Can we please get some common sense when driving into the post office parking lot?!?!?

      1. Please slow down! What is your rush? You know you aren’t going to be in one once you get inside! Cars are pulling out of spaces and sometimes cant see a car coming around the corner at a fast speed
      2. When you pull in to the parking lot please dont stop right when you pull in as that leaves the person behind you stuck in the middle of Ponce
      3. If you dont have a handicap sticker, don’t park in the handicap spot. Even though you think you are just running in for a second…nothing happens in a second there
      4. IT IS A ONE WAY PARKING LOT. I walk to that post office daily and every day I see someone try and pull in through the exits and it is a big wreck waiting to happen.
      Phew…I feel better…have a great weekend Decatur!

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:23 am

        Does the Post Office parking lot entrance and exit route seem counterintuitive to anyone but me? No matter how long I live in Decatur, my instinct is always to enter on the right side of the parking lot and exit out of the left side. I don’t ever do that but I do miss the entrance sometimes and then have to turn around and go back.

        • Steve says:
          February 11, 2011 at 9:32 am

          The route doesn’t seem counter-intuitive to me. If you’re using it from Ponce, which I imagine most people are, it’s a right turn in, right turn out.

          • Jeff says:
            February 11, 2011 at 11:03 am

            Or left turn in left turn out.

            • karass says:
              February 11, 2011 at 3:08 pm

              That’s it! I’m always come at the Post Office from the east, heading west on Ponce. So I have to turn left going in off of Ponce and it seems weird to go past the first driveway I encounter and then turn in the second.

              • karass says:
                February 11, 2011 at 3:15 pm

                Wait, that response made no sense. I give up. The layout just doesn’t work for me for unknown geospatialpyschoemotional reasons.

                • cubalibre says:
                  February 11, 2011 at 4:07 pm

                  Ahem, Karrass–I do believe that should be “geospatialpyschoemotionalheteronormative” reasons…

                  • karass says:
                    February 11, 2011 at 7:13 pm

                    I stand corrected.

      • Another Rick says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:27 am

        I want to add that you drivers need to watch out for people walking through the parking lot.

      • Marshall says:
        February 11, 2011 at 1:17 pm

        I would also add that there is plenty of extra parking in the overflow lot (closer to the Marlay) or on the street on Ponce (in front of the Catholic Church). There is really no need to park illegally right in front of the post office, unless you are just plain lazy!

      • Udog says:
        February 11, 2011 at 2:16 pm

        It’s only been there for 45 years. How did we survive this long. That’s all the sarcasm I can muster for today.

        • karass says:
          February 13, 2011 at 8:52 am

          Point well-taken. But geospatialpyschoemotionalheteronormativality is hard to overcome. On the other hand, there’s never an excuse for illegal parking or running down a pedestrian.

          • Cubalibre says:
            February 13, 2011 at 9:21 pm

            LOL! You tell ‘em, Karrass. BTW, “geospatialpyschoemotionalheteronormativality” is my new favorite word.

            • Parker Cross says:
              February 13, 2011 at 11:04 pm

              Too long for my attention span, unfortunately for me.

              • karass says:
                February 14, 2011 at 8:27 am

                You have to sing it, like in Mary Poppins.

                • Deanne says:
                  February 14, 2011 at 11:26 am

                  Oh that’s fun! DM theme song right there!

      • Michael says:
        February 13, 2011 at 7:53 am

        Unfortunately, I have witnessed a City of Decatur policewoman model bad behavior in the post office parking lot. She almost hit me headon when she entered the wrong way at the one way exit.

    2. KB says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:11 am

      Rail Arts District Studio Cruise tomorrow 2/12! It’s a great mix of local artists and boutiques, so come check it out!

      http://www.railartsdistrict.com/rad-studio-cruise/press-release

    3. CSD Mom says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:24 am

      Did anyone go to the “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader” thing? How was it?

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 8:38 am

        Really worthwhile. Cute, funny, and hopefully at least a few thousand were made for the new Fifth Avenue 4/5 Academy. I could see this becoming a tradition. Bill Floyd was laconic and funny and Lew Lefton was a great emcee although his microphone sound seemed off. As one would expect, the fifth graders knew the CRCT-like fifth grade questions the best and came out ahead of the adults and the middle school team. Some good moments:
        – As the ~ 20 adult contestants came out onto the stage and were introduced, there was lots of clapping and cheers, with absolute pandemonium screaming for Mr. Thomas. The guy is evidently a rock star at the 4/5.
        – The Asian Cajuns, locally famous blogging twins with the last name of Lee and dressed as their fashionista selves (which the tween girls LOVED), hung out as a sub-team with Police Chief Keith Lee in full uniform as “The Lees”. Too funny!
        – During the contestant interview section, the adults all talked about their background, businesses, reasons for participating, etc., while the fifth graders answered in monosyllabic monotones: “Nope”, “Yes”, “Not really”, “Dunno”. I couldn’t tell if that was planned or stagefright.

        We were so busy this week we were going to miss it but my daughter insisted. (Student attendees were absolved of homework responsibilities!) I’m glad I got to see it.

        • karass says:
          February 11, 2011 at 8:49 am

          Correction: Mr. Thomas was a judge, not a contestant

        • karass says:
          February 11, 2011 at 8:50 am

          Addendum: For readers who might not know this: Police Chief Keith Lee is neither Asian, nor Cajun, nor a fashionista.

          • Steve says:
            February 11, 2011 at 9:33 am

            I agree with the first two, but some folks think that a police uniform is hot.

          • Golazo says:
            February 11, 2011 at 11:29 am

            In fact, Dep. Chief Lee is from Louisiana. Bet those smart Fifth Graders didn’t know THAT.

            Golazo, Class of 1989

    4. ladycrumpet says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:37 am

      I’m sure this has come up before, but what’s with those bikes parked in the street on Adair?

      • Naaman Gibbetts says:
        February 11, 2011 at 8:42 am

        I believe those are referred to as “parking baffles”–set up by an extremely conscientious neighbor.

      • Rebeccab says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:25 am

        It has come up here before. I actually met him a while back, and he is a super-nice, older guy. After meeting him, I decided not to say anything about the bikes again. (And I did not ask him)

        It can be like Decatur’s own version of the Georgia Guidestones. A mystery not to be solved…

        • Another Rick says:
          February 11, 2011 at 11:34 am

          He is a great guy. If you see him out, and stop to talk, he may invite you into his house for coffee. I have had great discussions with him about poetry (he commented on a book I was carrying) and his garden!

    5. karass says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:46 am

      Heard on the radio this morning that Cobb County is reconsidering using the “balanced” calendar, i.e. the one that we have with scattered one-week breaks. Story didn’t really explain why it’s being reconsidered. But the school system is posting an on-line survey for parents to give feedback. We need to do that. I’m not saying that because I’m strongly against the “balanced” (balanced how? Weird use of term “balanced”) calendar but because the original CSD Calendar Committee strongly recommended that the new calendar be evaluated before it became a permanent fixture. I believe there was a commitment from CSD to do that.

      • CSD Mom says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:05 am

        Interesting. We haven’t heard anything from CSD yet about their evaluation of the calendar’s effectiveness.

      • k says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:08 am

        According to what I read yesterday most Cobb parents are in favor of keeping the balanced calendar, but one school board member is adamant about changing it because of the negative economic impact — primarily because White Water went to weekends only in August. At least one of their board members was trying to push keeping the balanced calendar for the full 3-year initial commitment.

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:17 am

        Of note, Decatur Rec all-day camps are full next Friday, during the “balanced” winter break. I know this because of a little family scheduling glitch involving someone not realizing that you have to sign up for stuff like this way ahead of time. (See thread about diversity and labelling others, e.g. husbands). Anyway, evidently many working parents in Decatur are not able to take the week off and travel. And Decatur Rec camps are the ones where I know my children will know other kids and enjoy themselves. Not dissing other camps; every family has their tried and true options. The half-day camps are wonderful but not helpful to those families with two full-time working parents without a lot of leave accumulated.

      • Decatur Metro says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:24 am

        LOL. I heard that NPR report too and when they mentioned the survey, I immediately thought of you.

      • SR says:
        February 11, 2011 at 1:25 pm

        I have a friend who is a parent in Cobb and is angry about the move to reconsider the calendar. She says there was a lot of deliberation before voting it in for 3 years and now they are trying to sink it halfway through the first year without allowing the same opportunity for the voice of the people to be heard. I believe the survey was supposed to help allay that criticism, but the latest post from her says that there is a computer glitch that prevents the current calendar option showing correctly in the survey or from the main website, giving rise to complaints of bias. Evaluating the calendar may be a whole new ball of wax that CSD doesn’t want to get into.

        • karass says:
          February 11, 2011 at 3:39 pm

          Well, unlike what folks are saying about Cobb County, CSD could try to do an effective evaluation without preconceived answers in mind. IMHO, parents are owed the evaluation promised. At the time the “balanced” calendar was adopted, a majority of teachers were for it and a majority of parents were against it. I think it would be appropriate next August, after everyone has had time to settle their thoughts and conclusions about the calendar, to do another survey. Were the anticipated benefits realized? The anticipated challenges? The feared hardships on some families? What unantipated effects, good or bad, occurred. By the way, a satisfaction survey should only be one part of a good evaluation. Other areas and measures should be considered–the calendar committee probably would know which need to be involved. What impact did the unexpected snowstorm have on the “balanced” calendar and instruction? Would it have had more or less of an impact with the previous calendar? How was student motivation after each break? Energy levels? Retention of information? Behavior? Absenteeism? Teacher absenteeism? Etc.

    6. WW says:
      February 11, 2011 at 8:52 am

      We just moved to Decatur and now I am taking a job at Piedmont Hospital. I have never had to commute more than 3 miles in Atlanta. Any recommendations on best way there and back?

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 8:57 am

        Since I delivered there twice, once in the winter, right after a snowstorm, I carefully considered this question. From the northside of town, my favorite route is Clairemont to Mason Mill to Houston Mill to Lavista which eventually becomes Lindbergh to Peachtree Hills to Peachtree and then south to Piedmont. Not sure if this is the best way from the southside of town.

      • DECATURKJ says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:18 am

        Sort of depends on where you are in Decatur, but from the south side I have always liked taking Dekalb Ave to the connector north (you have to really play around with the best place to get on the connector, which I’ve found is to cut through Inman Park to Lake Avenue/Fort Street, turn right on Samson, left on North Highland, and right to get on the connector at Freedom Parkway). From there, take 75 north to Northside, right on Northside, and right on Collier. Or, you can get off the connector at the 17th street bridge and take Peachtree to the hospital.

      • Siv says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:40 am

        I would agree with both of these suggested routes.

        Another from the north side (depending on when you leave in the morning – I would not do this between 7:30 and 8:30): take N. Decatur or Clairmont to 85 south; exit 86 onto the access road; Peachtree exit (about 2.5) miles; right on Peachtree up to hospital.

      • Another Rick says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:39 am

        Ponce to Monroe, Monroe to 10th. 10th to Peachtee. The Hospital is about 1.5 miles from midtown area. That is just one of many possibiities. My son was born there. So i know you can get there fast from Decatur!

      • Parker Cross says:
        February 11, 2011 at 12:18 pm

        No new suggestions, but welcome to Decatur.

      • Brianc says:
        February 11, 2011 at 1:19 pm

        Westbound from Decatur to Five Points Station, bus #110 to Piedmont Hosp.

        • Nubbs says:
          February 11, 2011 at 4:16 pm

          I also delivered at Piedmont and Hubs made me agree upon our route when I was about 6 months pregnant so he did not have me barking orders while in labor (like “Why did you turn there? I don’t like this route, etc). My preferred route is:
          Clairemont to North Decatur
          North Decatur becomes Morningside
          Left on Piedmont
          Right on Monroe
          Left at that traffic light that will take you by Ansley
          Weave up the hill to the right after Ansley, Turn right at the blinky light and go down that street. Turn right on P’tree.

          • just cranky says:
            February 11, 2011 at 9:15 pm

            That’s the best route! But North Decatur becomes Rock Springs, not Morningside, when you cross Briarcliff. And even better to avoid the Clairemont/N. Decatur bottleneck is Coventry to Clifton to N. Decatur (although construction at Emory Village has become a temporary bottleneck.)

            • Nubbs says:
              February 11, 2011 at 9:20 pm

              Duh. It becomes Rock Springs, but doesn’t it eventually become Morningside too? Will have to try the Coventry thing next time.

    7. BenJT says:
      February 11, 2011 at 9:10 am

      All I have to say is I really like the free-for-all feature!

    8. Decaturight says:
      February 11, 2011 at 9:30 am

      I was wondering if anyone else out there feels held hostage by vets when it comes to “emergency” procedures.

      We recently had a family cat swallow a long elastic band requiring endoscopy (luckily) for $1000.00 avoiding an additional $700.00 surgery fee.

      Afterward, though of course happy that my cat was OK, I felt taken advantage of.

      Does anyone else feel that way? I certainly would not have left him and done nothing, but it seemed excessive.

      We also had two strays that we had neutered (for a reasonable fee at LifeLine in Avondale) and took care of them for a while. When we found an adopter, she asked that we take them in to the vet for shots and a check up. After $300, the adopter took them and gave them a home.

      I wanted to do the right thing, but next time a stray comes around…I will look the other way.

      • Steve says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:39 am

        Like most other healthcare, veterinary medicine is becoming more sophisticated and therefore expensive. Like a human trip to the emergency room, a pet trip is expensive. IMO, your expense was in line for today’s market. You didn’t say what facility you went to, but I imagine they’re all comparable.

      • runswithdogs says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:49 am

        No need to look the other way…. PAWS Atlanta (formerly the Dekalb Humane Society) offers frequent low-cost vaccination clinics. Check http://www.pawsatlanta.org/ for dates.

      • muffin says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:01 am

        One my cats had a blocked bladder 4 years ago on a Saturday. Our regular vet was already closed so we ran him to Briarcliff Animal Hospital. Sat for an hour, then they screamed “he has a blocked bladder!” (after i already told them that) and ran to catheterize him. One overnight stay and removal of catheter the next day totaled $3,000.00. Our regular vet was mortified.

        I recently had to hospitalize my dog at Georgia Veterinary Services for two days of 24 hour fluid/charcoal treatment/monitoring and it was $900.00. and they are supposed to be the “expensive” vet.

        I got pet insurance when i got my dog. They get expensive. $10 a month through Pet Plan for an 80/20 plan with a $200 deductible.

        • Aimee says:
          February 11, 2011 at 1:26 pm

          What plan do you have for the pet insurance? Pay from $29-40 per month on my three doxies (premium goes up as they get older).

          • muffin says:
            February 14, 2011 at 10:47 am

            I use pet plan. http://www.gopetplan.com. i did a lot of research. they don’t increase premiums due to age or anything else. so far they have been great.

      • Cat says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:17 am

        Agreed, emergency care costs more. They may also order tests you don’t need. For example, once I took a dog in for a cut and they suggested a full blood panel and urinalysis; I let them do it because I like doing those ever so often and he was up for them but obviously, not necessary for stitches. Those tests cost more there that at the regular clinic, but I got the results immediately vs. waiting for days… so you have to remember everything costs more because you are supporting an after-hours on-site lab, etc.

        In general, I think it’s best to look at every kitten or puppy and think “$1,000/year over 13 years” or whatever because then you can decide if you can afford to take one on, knowing there will be years when you spend less and then others when you spend more. I like to scare myself up front to avoid starring in an animal hoarders TV show. Hell, I once spent a couple hundred bucks over time, taking care of a $10 zebra finch. How much is a guppy’s life worth? That’s why I prefer to frame the whole debate under “the pet budget” since it can be hard to be rational about this stuff.

        • Rebeccab says:
          February 11, 2011 at 10:52 am

          “In general, I think it’s best to look at every kitten or puppy and think “$1,000/year over 13 years” or whatever because then you can decide if you can afford to take one on” ——— That’s something all responsible pet owners do. Just reading the comment you could tell the author loves and takes care of animals by taking strays in.

          So I didn’t think your comment was fair honestly.

          We don’t know if the author could, or could not afford it.

          The point was, why was a procedure that would normally cost 500 or 750, suddenly pop up to 1k. I don’t find anything wrong with not wanting to be gouged, even when it comes to your pet’s care.

          Emergency care is not the same price, and I find that reasonable. But there is a difference between charging more, and willfully gouging people who are in a dire situation. (I don’t know the specifics, or if that happened, but it sounded like that’s how the author felt)

          Perfect time for a shout out to the best vets on the planet. They are affiliated with a great emergency hospital that I have also used.
          http://www.northdekalbvet.com/

      • Davo says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:36 am

        Pumpkin-pie filling is an excellent laxative if your pet eats something it shouldn’t…I think it costs @ $2 a can.

        • TeeRuss says:
          February 11, 2011 at 11:18 am

          You never know the new things you’re going to learn in a FFAF thread.

        • FM Fats says:
          February 11, 2011 at 1:44 pm

          We had a diabetic cat who also had acromegaly, which made him insulin resistant. Dr. Lloyd recommended a diet of canned pumpkin into which we sprinkled the contents of a chromium capsule. Damned if the cat didn’t love it.

          • Nirac says:
            February 11, 2011 at 4:23 pm

            Can we get a clarification of pumpkin pie filling vs canned pumpkin? I’ve always been told that the canned pumpkin can be used but the filling has way to much sugar for an animal to digest.

            • Robin says:
              February 13, 2011 at 4:40 pm

              Pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling/mix. I fed my cat Libby’s pumpkin for over a year (he had serious GI issues).

      • City Girl says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:56 am

        I am amazed and appalled by what I end up paying for routine veterinary care here in Atlanta. When I lived in another state, it was much cheaper, plus I could order the vaccines from a vet supply company and have my mother (a nurse) administer them.

        Here, just the annual shots for my dogs ends up costing hundreds of dollars! I have a horse I board outside Atlanta; his annual shots are $60 and includes the vet coming to the barn. I have tried different vets in the area and like many of them; however, the cost of pet care is getting prohibitive. And it’s ridiculous that the state requires an annual rabies shot, when the vaccine lasts a good three years, if not longer.

        • Cat says:
          February 11, 2011 at 12:59 pm

          Check on the rabies shot–the last several vets I’ve been to are on board with 3-year shots. The tag you get shows it’s good for 3 years, too.

        • JB says:
          February 11, 2011 at 6:28 pm

          Can anyone recommend an affordable vet around Decatur? We’ve been using Village Vets. They’re awesome, but, you know, a little pricey.

          • Rez says:
            February 12, 2011 at 5:15 pm

            We used to go to village vets but then someone recommended Dearborn and we love them! They are about half the price and as far as I’m concerned the only difference is that there isn’t a flat screen TV in the lobby. The facility is a bit outdated but the vet care is top-notch.

            • Trudy says:
              February 13, 2011 at 8:46 am

              Dearborn is fabulous!

    9. M1 says:
      February 11, 2011 at 9:35 am

      Can anyone recommend a good pediatric dentist for a 2 year old. We have called a few and they either don’t take kids that young, or only take referrals.

      • Julia says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:43 am

        Dr. Ray Davis, 404.636.2501.
        His office is off of Clairmont Rd., a few blocks south of N. Druid Hills.
        I think my youngest was about 2 the first time he saw Dr. Davis. Kid-sized chairs, cute dental hygenists, kid-friendly waiting room. Both my kids love him.

      • Siv says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:45 am

        I would highly recommend Dr. Davis (http://www.kudzu.com/m/Walter-Ray-Davis-Jr-DDS-715869). I’m not sure if he takes kids that young, but I grew up going to him and couldn’t have been more satisfied.

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 9:47 am

        Catherine Enright is wonderful but her practice is often full. But worth a try. And she may have an associate now. Since part of the joy of this practice is the whole fun child-oriented office set-up, I’d try the associate if Dr. Enright isn’t available.

      • dsw says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:32 am

        I also would recommend Dr. Davis. He is very good with kids with a pleasant manner, his staff is friendly and my kids don’t mind going to the dentist at all because it’s such a pleasant experience.

      • CSD Mom says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:37 am

        We have loved Dr. Wesley Powell. http://www.childteen.com/ over by Northlake Mall.

        Unfortunately our son’s molars were missing all the enamel when they came in, and his teeth were literally crumbling when he was 2 years old. He had to have 4 crowns and Dr. Powell was able to sedate him for the procedure. Most regular dentists will not sedate children.

        Dr. Powell and his staff are super. They exclusively treat kids so there are movies, treats, toys to play with, etc. He is very capable. My other kids are jealous because they go to a “regular” dentist!

        • Decaturmomof3 says:
          February 11, 2011 at 12:23 pm

          Another vote for Dr. Wesley Powell. Our 4 year old also needed a crown and had to be sedated. Dr. Davis’ office does not provide this service, so I switched all my kids to Dr. Powell just in case we need extra dental work down the road. The office is very nice and clean and the staff is very friendly.

      • Marla says:
        February 13, 2011 at 11:33 am

        If you don’t mind traveling a bit, we adore Dr. Rhonda Hogan. http://www.drrhondahogan.com.

    10. Decatur Metro says:
      February 11, 2011 at 10:17 am

      I just noticed this morning that all the Samsung Galaxy billboards say “Do Not Sit on Galaxy Tab” in small print. I would suggest that this is good advice for most purchased items. Bananas, ferrets, good china…

      • Patrick says:
        February 11, 2011 at 10:39 am

        That is too funny. It’s probably in small printm, too, so they should put another disclaimer not to read small print when driving beneath that.

    11. runswithdogs says:
      February 11, 2011 at 10:20 am

      What’s the current story on what’s happening in the “gulch” behind the cemetery? I know that footbridge(s) are being added but also recall that it was agreed that the formal path would not be constructed. There sure is a lot of tree removal going on for just the construction of little bridges.

      Also, for what it’s worth, Animal Control has been in the cemetery virtually every day for the past week or two. For those who live along the cemetery or Glenlake park and whose dogs are inclined to jump the fence– something to be aware of.

      • Steve says:
        February 12, 2011 at 12:21 pm

        Stop by the recently renovated cemetery office and they can show you all the things that will be taking place with the cemetery.

    12. Patrick says:
      February 11, 2011 at 10:22 am

      We are mulling over the creation of a fun 30030 themed t-shirt at Decatur Screenprint. Just trying to see what the interest might be for such a thing. Would you wear one to rep your Zip code?

      • Jill says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:11 am

        I’d love a shirt that (somehow) reflected all that 30030 is to me! Diverse, convenient, laid back, friendly, walkable. A MescaMoJoint Sabatador kinda place!

      • TeeRuss says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:17 am

        30030 – locally sourced, drunk, overrun with kids, and sustainable.

        • Disgruntled says:
          February 11, 2011 at 12:35 pm

          I would totally by that TeeRuss!

      • Another Rick says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:45 am

        yes

      • DarenW says:
        February 11, 2011 at 4:04 pm

        Last year at the DBF, our t-shirt folks made a shirt that said “30030–A great place to read.”

        It sold very well, so I think you’ve got the right idea.

        For all of those that feel a certain snobbery about the difference between our little “city of Decatur” enclave, and the place where all those burglaries, murders, arson, and drive bys get reported in the news, this would be a big hit.

        • An Eric says:
          February 11, 2011 at 4:13 pm

          Here is my submission for the Candler Mcafee neighborhood…

          “30032 – At least the AJC thinks we’re Decatur!”

        • Brianc says:
          February 11, 2011 at 4:16 pm

          Wish I had seen that shirt! Hope they have it again this year. And btw, my wife is really hoping Kathyrn Stockett (“The Help”) is at this years festival. Can you help with that? :)

          • Stu says:
            February 11, 2011 at 8:18 pm

            Mary Kay Andrews mentioned at the “Are you smarter than a 5th grader?” show that she (Ms. Andrews) would be appearing at the Decatur library in March with Ms. Stockett. I can hardly wait. I love them both.

          • Alison W. says:
            February 12, 2011 at 9:44 am

            Here is the link to the event featuring Kathryn Stockett and Karin Slaughter:
            http://www.savethelibraries.com/
            it is a fundraiser for the DeKalb Library Foundation

      • Briana says:
        February 12, 2011 at 10:13 am

        I would totally get one!

    13. jj says:
      February 11, 2011 at 10:52 am

      Hey, just wanted to offer a belated thank you to Naaman for his children’s piano teacher recommendation. Thanks!

      • Naaman Gibbetts says:
        February 11, 2011 at 7:21 pm

        You are very welcome.

    14. writerchad says:
      February 11, 2011 at 11:07 am

      Anyone register their child for College Heights pre-k this week? Just wondering what the number is up to…

      • Julesag says:
        February 11, 2011 at 11:25 am

        We know of about 10 kids eligible; only 1 or 2 are going to try College Heights. Most others are staying in their current daycare/preschool situations until kindergarten (including our munchkin). So hopefully that helps you out:-).

        • writerchad says:
          February 11, 2011 at 12:01 pm

          Pretty wife registered pretty boy last week and the number was up to 80 something.

    15. Curious says:
      February 11, 2011 at 12:25 pm

      was wondering if anyone could recommend a Decatur divorce attorney.

      • Brady Lewis says:
        February 11, 2011 at 1:26 pm

        Adriana de la Torriente of Torriente Marum, LLC
        http://www.torrientemarum.com/

      • Dec_Ren says:
        February 12, 2011 at 9:24 pm

        Denise VanLanduyt, vanlanduytlaw.com. Best Decatur divorce attorney–chair of DeKalb Bar Family Law section and lives and works in 30030.

    16. Nubbs says:
      February 11, 2011 at 12:36 pm

      Just picked up some lunch from Burnt Fork. Delicious. We will be going back.

      • shacadu says:
        February 11, 2011 at 3:37 pm

        We went last week. Everything was great except the mac and cheese – not a fan of the style they have there. The owner told me they were going to get a mustard based sauce soon, which I’m looking forward to. He noticed the way I was having my sandwich (with slaw on it) and knew I was from SC. Neat!

        • Harpua says:
          February 11, 2011 at 3:48 pm

          I second the mac&cheese comment. I liked the noodle style and the yellow cheese base (only kind my daughter will eat), but it was just a little too cheesy or something. Hope they tweak the recipe a little. Everything else was delicious, though! Service was quick and friendly. Nice atmosphere inside. Overall, I think it’s an excellent addition to the Decatur restaurant scene. We will definitely be returning soon!

      • Dave says:
        February 11, 2011 at 3:46 pm

        I had a pulled pork sandwich yesterday, which had a very, very nice smoke flavor. Along with KC sauce and baked beans, it made for a delicious lunch.

        • JB says:
          February 11, 2011 at 6:39 pm

          Had a brisket sandwich the other day. Tasted great. Will be coming back.

          I dig the way it’s set up inside too. Plus interesting drink selections. Who else has Cheerwine fountain drinks?

      • Patrick says:
        February 14, 2011 at 11:03 am

        Burnt Fork is surprisingly gluten-free friendly. They have corn tortillas which they will warm up for you and that makes one awesome wrap with the ‘cue and their amazing slaw.

        • Deanne says:
          February 14, 2011 at 11:23 am

          Has anyone sampled the vegetarian/ vegan options yet? Burnt Fork’s sounding really tasty!

    17. Disgruntled says:
      February 11, 2011 at 12:37 pm

      Any word on when the new, highly anticipated, hoped and prayed for Oakhurst Market is going to open? I bought a bike just to ride there.

      • Marshall says:
        February 11, 2011 at 1:21 pm

        No, but the demo for the new Dollar General seems to be coming along nicely.

    18. KC says:
      February 11, 2011 at 12:49 pm

      Just noticed earlier this week that there’s a new catering (?) place next to Piece of Cake/Trackside on College Ave. Sign said “Opening Soon.”

      • Nirac says:
        February 11, 2011 at 4:21 pm

        The sign that I saw said that they made custom cakes. I wonder how Piece of Cake feels about that.

      • karass says:
        February 12, 2011 at 3:38 pm

        Wasn’t there already a catering place next to Piece of Cake? Or has that closed?

    19. Decatur's Token Republican says:
      February 11, 2011 at 2:19 pm

      DM,

      So what’s the count for number of comments by reader last year? I bet Karass is number one!

    20. JoeBlow says:
      February 11, 2011 at 2:34 pm

      Fire! Fire on the mountain!

      • Bryan Alexander says:
        February 12, 2011 at 2:39 pm

        …and drought in the valley!

    21. Parker Cross says:
      February 11, 2011 at 2:42 pm

      Can you help me?
      How do I responsibly dispose of a broken Mr. Coffee? It’s got plastic, metal and electronic parts. And it never worked worth a damn. Cheap is cheap.
      Thanks.

      • Steve says:
        February 11, 2011 at 6:10 pm

        I had a similar question a few weeks back and never did get a good answer.

    22. decaturmomof3 says:
      February 11, 2011 at 3:54 pm

      What’s the best place to grab a nice, but relatively inexpensive dinner in Decatur tonight? We went to Leon’s the past two times out, so we are looking for other suggestions.

      • Nubbs says:
        February 11, 2011 at 4:22 pm

        Iberian Pig. It is very reasonable if you split a bunch of tapas.

        • chris says:
          February 11, 2011 at 4:50 pm

          One of the best things about Iberian Pig is their large selection of 1/2 glasses of wine for… wait for it… 1/2 the price of a full glass. Makes for good wine sampling to go with your tapas.

        • decaturmomof3 says:
          February 11, 2011 at 5:05 pm

          We love Iberian Pig, but end up spending well over $100 every time we go b/c everything looks so good!

          • Brianc says:
            February 11, 2011 at 5:47 pm

            Does it have to be downtown Decatur? If not, and you haven’t tried it before, Bjohanic is really good and fairly reasonable. Might be crowded though. As for downtown, I was impressed with Mac McGees food, if you don’t mind a pub. Of course, I love Brick Store’s food, but I’d be afraid of the crowds on a Friday night.

      • s says:
        February 11, 2011 at 5:03 pm

        Cafe Lily is nice.

        • Nubbs says:
          February 11, 2011 at 5:12 pm

          Agreed – are you taking children with you? Cafe Lily is one of the Decatur spots I will not take ours.
          Sushi Ave is good too. We prefer the one by Cafe Lily. I also like the Square Pub, but it might be too bar-like if you are looking for a nicer night out.

          • decaturmomof3 says:
            February 12, 2011 at 11:23 am

            We ended up at Sushi Ave by Cafe Lily. Top choice was Cafe Lily, but they were already full at 6pm. We did not take the kids and would not take them to Cafe Lily or Iberian Pig until they are much older. We have taken them to Sushi Ave for lunch, but would probably not for dinner.

      • karass says:
        February 11, 2011 at 6:17 pm

        Figo’s

        Isabella’s

        Avellini’s Pizza (IF it has seating available)

        Community Barbecue

        Garlic Thai

    23. Brianc says:
      February 11, 2011 at 5:36 pm

      “Cafe Lily is one of the Decatur spots I will not take ours.”

      Thank you for that exercise of common sense.

      • s says:
        February 11, 2011 at 5:42 pm

        I would not take kids to Iberian Pig either.

        • Nubbs says:
          February 11, 2011 at 8:45 pm

          Ditto.

    24. Rebeccab says:
      February 11, 2011 at 6:04 pm

      YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE

      Jogging in the cemetery this afternoon, there was a very noticeable massive pile of dog poo next to the street, and a headstone, impossible to miss. I didn’t have my dog with me thus no bags so I went down by the pond (they were out of bags, don’t know who to report this to) then went back up to the dog park, grabbed a bag, went back and cleaned it up. I find it absolutely despicable that someone would allow their dog to do that and just leave it there. Don’t have a bag? GO GET ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know my dog, and I always carry 4, 3 just in case for her, and 1 extra in case someone asks me for one. Dogs can go through 2 bags easily. Every dog owner knows this. I couldn’t imagine going to put flowers on a loved one’s grave and seeing dog sht right next to it. Whoever you are, you need to be freaking ashamed of yourself.

      • Naaman Gibbetts says:
        February 11, 2011 at 7:18 pm

        Just a thought: I don’t think stray dogs feel shame or read local blogs.

        • Cubalibre says:
          February 11, 2011 at 9:52 pm

          OMG– I thought the exact same thing! Heaven forfend we should be sharing some psychic connection! :-P

        • Rebeccab says:
          February 12, 2011 at 9:27 am

          I have lived here 2 years, jog there everyday and walk my dog there, never seen a stray there. Not once.

        • Deanne says:
          February 14, 2011 at 12:49 am

          A friend of mine’s all the time complaining about spotting dog poop near grave stones & the inconsiderate folks who let their dogs off-leash there. Maybe Rebeccab’s vent will get some of ‘em to do right. Hope Animal Control cites the rest.

          Rebeccab, it’s excellent of you to go the distance (literally!) to clean it up. Lucky for the culprit that you didn’t see it happen! Next time…!

    25. Luis says:
      February 11, 2011 at 6:23 pm

      OK, Lisa, pass this coment by please.
      Can anyone recommend a Latin Salsa dancing class? Thinking it would make a great Valentines/Birthday gift!

      • essdee says:
        February 13, 2011 at 8:01 pm

        Not in Decatur and not in time for Valentine’s Day but I would recommend PasoFino dance co.

    26. Chris Billingsley says:
      February 11, 2011 at 7:22 pm

      The Decatur High School Close Up Club sold almost $1,400 worth of Valentine flowers during the past week. That’s a whole lot of love shared at the high school. CUC members worked hard before school, during lunch and after school saying, “$2 per flower or three for $5- Show Some Love!” And the profits from the sale will help at least three students pay for their airfare to Washington, D.C. in April. The senior boys bought flowers for all the senior girls. Very classy and it will pay off big time at the 20 year reunion. One more thing, a CSD administrator, who was recently slandered on this blog as being “ineffective”, bought flowers for her entire staff. That kind of class act, as well as thirty years of dedicated service to the students, parents and taxpayers of the City of Decatur, will be a tough act to follow.

      • macarolina says:
        February 12, 2011 at 2:48 pm

        love the sr. boys’ idea! and congrats to the Close Up Club for all your hard work and success!

      • karass says:
        February 12, 2011 at 3:50 pm

        If I’m guessing correctly, that was a wonderful and classy act by Dr. Lee. And 99% of her teachers and staff deserve those flowers and much more. Some wonderful things happen at that school everyday. Note that while a few posts had criticism of the 4/5, others were regretful of Dr. Lee’s leaving.

        The nature of blogs seems to be fairly heavy-handed when it comes to folks in the public eye, e.g. principals, superintendents, city council members, and residents who store their bikes at the curb across from a park. I’m not sure it’s slander if opinions are being voiced vs. non-truths stated as facts. Nonetheless, it seems best to criticize actions or institutuions rather than individuals who may be doing the best job they can, according to their understanding of what’s right, perhaps under a lot of pressure, perhaps without all the resources they need. Personal insults and purposefully hurtful comments are never in order. We could all do better in remembering this. However, the higher up the individual in federal, state, local, or school government, the higher the pay, and the more they have to expect to be in the public eye and receive criticism.

    27. Alison W. says:
      February 12, 2011 at 9:52 am

      DM– just curious, is it possible to set the comments up on the mobile version to thread like they do on the regular version? I do 90% of my DM reading on my iPhone and the volume of comments on FFAF gets a little hard to follow. Thanks!

    28. Chris Billingsley says:
      February 12, 2011 at 2:35 pm

      FYI- There is a competition among the male teachers at Decatur High as to who can grow the most impressive beard during the month of February. Students will judge the best beard ($1 per vote) and the money raised will be donated to a local children’s hospital. Maybe some pictures will be sent in so DM readers can judge also (or is it “too”- DM grammar police, please let me know!).
      Thanks to lead teacher and IB coordinator Mr. Wes Hatfield for organizing this.

      • karass says:
        February 12, 2011 at 3:13 pm

        DHS is just too cool. First flowers for all the senior girls, and now beards for a children’s hospital, not to mention all the community service that Close-Up and other school organizations/clubs do. Don’t think that we don’t appreciate all the leadership that you teachers are providing….our children are good kids, but sometimes they need a little, ahem, guidance, and ahem, pushing, and you high school mentors do so much of a better job of it than us uncool, annoying parents!

      • Mair says:
        February 13, 2011 at 5:56 pm

        Go Mr. B!

    29. Golazo says:
      February 12, 2011 at 6:14 pm

      I can’t find the scoop on the CSD website: ¿Are administrative offices open next week?

      • karass says:
        February 12, 2011 at 10:06 pm

        Scoop on what?

        Re Admin offices open: Probably not. Individual staffers might go in catch up on some work but I don’t think the general phones will be answering.

    30. Just Askin' says:
      February 13, 2011 at 1:20 pm

      Anyone know an entertainment lawyer? TV and Film.

      • anniefannie says:
        February 13, 2011 at 2:33 pm

        phaedra from real housewives of atlanta :)
        (i’m ashamed i know this….)

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