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November 2008

News and Events from the latest issue
of the Decatur Focus Newsletter.

>Click for events offered by DBA members

Bring your shoes and join the run/walks that begin at Fleet Feet Sports Decatur, 431 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. You may join the program at any time. For information visit www.fleetfeetdecatur.com or call 404-371-0208.

The Decatur Business Association is calling for nominations for the eighth annual Thomas O. Davis Public Servant Award to honor a public servant – one who often goes unnoticed in his/her work but serves as an inspiration, exemplifies honesty, integrity and professionalism in the performance of duties, and has served as a public employee for at least five years.

Previous recipients include Virginia Atchison (Active Living), Jennifer Ross (Police), Willie Shoemake (Public Works), Alma Fleetwood (PALS), Lee Ann Harvey (Community & Economic Development), and Patrick Grier (Public Works).

The DBA established the award in memory of Thomas O. Davis, Decatur’s city attorney from 1968 until his death in 2000. Submit a nomination by writing a letter/statement explaining why the nominee should receive the award. All nominations must be submitted by Dec. 15. For information call 404-371-8386 or email info@decaturga.com.

Help DAA keep the arts vibrant in this community by joining or renewing your membership. You’ll receive special benefits like these:

• Chance to purchase Decatur Wine Festival tickets before they go on sale to the public.
• Special members-only events, like the Clothesline Show and Last Call for the Fine Arts Exhibition.
• Tax-deductible contribution for 2008.
• Recognition in the 2009 Decatur Arts Festival program and the DAA Annual Report.
• Discounts at local theaters, performance venues, businesses, and galleries.

For other member benefits and membership levels visit www.decaturartsalliance.org.

Pambili African Artworks celebrates its second anniversary with a Holiday Open House and Reception, Saturday, Nov. 8, 4-7 p.m. Come see an assortment of African holiday ornaments; finds from a recent trip to South Africa; a new collection of buffalo horn and sterling silver jewelry; many children’s items; and a wide variety of jewelry and baskets. Pambili is at 201 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. in the Artisan building – entrance on Commerce Drive.

Melrose On Ponce will host its annual Holiday Extravaganza Open House on Nov. 13, 5-9 p.m. Door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, complimentary beverages, and plenty of holiday cheer make this event a must for those seeking a great selection of holiday decor and gifts in Decatur!

Beacon Hill Artist Studios offer Saturday Workshops in drawing and composition, portrait and figure drawing through November and early December. Oil painting classes will begin in January. For information and to be placed on the mailing list contact Rodney Grainger, 404-210-9846; rodney.grainger@att.net.

Keep up with what’s happening at Whit’s End by visiting Whit’s blog. You’ll find updates on sales, new items, discounts, and more at http://blog.whitsenddecatur.com.

Attend the “Meet the Artist” reception Nov 20, 6-9 p.m., and receive 10 percent off opening night purchases. Be sure to register for free collage art.

Junor Gallery Fine Art is at 114 E. Ponce de Leon Ave. Call 404-377-2255 or visit www.junorgallery.com for information.

For more than 20 years, Our House (on the campus of Columbia Presbyterian Church on South Columbia Drive) has provided support and services to area homeless families. The agency provides free childcare to homeless children, ages six months to five years. It also provides training and internships that help parents earn a credential allowing them to work in child development centers. In addition, family advocates work with families to help them set goals and develop life skills that result in sustainable employment and help break the cycles of poverty and homelessness.

Early Childhood Education — Started by Decatur residents, Our House is one of only two accredited centers providing free, quality early childhood education to children whose parents are required to leave homeless shelters or who are in transitional housing. It is estimated that, on any given day, there are more than 800 homeless children in metropolitan Atlanta. That number is even larger, if you take into account families who may be living with relatives or who are in other transitional housing.

Successful Capital Campaign — Our House has grown and thrived over the past three years, and recently concluded a successful capital campaign. Under the leadership of Gayle Gellerstedt, who also serves on the board as development chair, the agency exceeded its $1.2 million campaign goal. Construction of a new wing and the renovation of the 3,200-square-foot current facility should be completed this fall. The additional space will result in more children served and more supportive programs being offered to parents in the coming years.

Volunteers Needed — Though not currently able to accept clothing donations (due to lack of storage during construction), the agency is always in need of volunteers to read to the children, rock infants and to send money (which helps underwrite operational costs).

For a current list of needs visit www.ourhousega.org. To volunteer or take a tour, contact Mary Lyons, development director, 404-378-0938.