Oh wow. First, a note from the Mayor himself to DM readers…

Serving the people of Decatur as a commissioner and Mayor for the last 21 years has been an incredible experience. Recently, I have been given an opportunity to join the Pendleton Consulting Group in assisting businesses and local governments around Georgia. There is the possibility that some of the work that I will be doing might be considered by some to present a conflict of interest. For that reason, I have decided to step down as Mayor and Commissioner of the city of Decatur. As I have wrestled with this decision over the last few months it has been a very emotional time for me. As a resident and Mayor, I am extremely proud of the city’s employees and the manner in which they go about their jobs. They are dedicated to providing us, as residents, the best possible level of services. They do not see their work as a job but a way of life. They have made me look much better at my job than I really am.

>> Everyday I realize how fortunate I am to be one who calls Decatur home. The extraordinary people who live and work here make this an unusual and very special place. We are home to the best school system of any, and that fact is certainly one of reasons that makes Decatur a desirable place to live. I believe our best days are ahead and I look forward to being part of Decatur’s future.

>> My resignation will be effective January 7, 2013. On that day The Commission will elect a new Mayor and I know you will support that person just as you have supported me. I want to thank everyone for your support and help over the years and the confidence you have shown in me by allowing me to be your Mayor. Decatur is a small city but is one of the world’s greatest. Thanks.

And then this from the City’s Linda Harris…

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The CIty Schools of Decatur sent around this letter from Dr. Phyllis Edwards yesterday evening…

Dear CSD Parents, Staff and Community,

The City Schools of Decatur is deeply saddened by the horrific events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary on Friday. It is difficult to comprehend what happened and the long road ahead as this community heals. Schools are the heart of every community, particularly small communities. This tragedy has resonated deeply with parents and educators, and City Schools of Decatur mourns for the families and community of Newtown, Connecticut.

We want to assure our families and community that there are safety and security procedures in place to protect CSD students and staff. All of our schools have safety preparedness plans that cover any potential emergency that might happen, including an intrusion. We work closely with Chief Booker and the Decatur Police Department to review our safety plans. Central Office members and principals met Monday to go over the plans to see if there are any areas we need to strengthen.

In light of the tragedy in Connecticut, we are implementing a mid-term review of our safety plans. I have provided each principal with a Safety Assessment Instrument from the Georgia Department of Education that is a self-assessment of procedures and facilities. When we return from the holiday break, we will examine the assessments and make any recommended modifications to our plans and facilities to promote an even more secure school environment.

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UPDATE II: Double rainbow at Winnona Park Elementary courtesy of Douglas…

Update: Billy sends in this third rainbow photo over Oakhurst Elementary…

Two different views of a massive rainbow seen around Decatur this morning.  This first one is from Steve…

And this one is from Heather as seen along Clairemont…