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If you’re exploring our publication for the first time, welcome reader. Every month, we aim to serve the Decatur community with the stories that fill our streets.
We’re halfway through the year, the heat is here, and believe it or not (despite what the thermometer says), summertime is slipping through our fingers. But before we get back to school and bustling calendars, we’ve got to soak up every last bit of what July has to offer. This month, our publication celebrates exploration and discovery.
What is your favorite part about the summer season? Is it the kids being out of school and the energy they bring to our neighborhoods? Is it the warm weather trips you’ve been waiting for since January? Is it stargazing or outdoor movie nights? For me, it’s the trees, the evening summer sounds, and patio gatherings with friends and family. But of course, exploration isn't limited to the great outdoors. It's a mindset—a willingness to try new things, seek out new perspectives, embrace the unfamiliar, and learn.
In Decatur, we are surrounded by brilliance. We see it in our neighbors who work at Emory, the CDC, or Agnes Scott. We see it in our children who teach us things every day and hold us accountable. We see it in our landscape, living moments away from outdoor adventures. We see it in the many nonprofits, leaders, and restaurants that serve our community. This month, our writers share some of those experiences in these pages. From the history of our town to the galaxies beyond, there is always something to discover here.
May we always be open to trying, learning, and growing…
Sincerely,
CAROLINE FICKEN, PUBLISHER @DECATURCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Josh Cornwall, Brittany Baker, Sable Massingill Martinez, Ashley Topham
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jonathan Wade, John Wachs, Caroline Ficken
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
The
Uncovering
Exploring
1: Local mixed media artist, Kristin Thorsen, at the Decatur Arts Festival. 2: Oil & Acrylic Artist, Galina Herndon, at the Decatur Arts Festival. 3: Silver Smiles loved supporting the community at VAHI Porchest 2024! Smiles all around! 4: Artist, Lori Lejeune, and T.E. Wilcox owner, Tranise Coryell are all smiles at the May DBA meeting. 5: The Book Bird hosts a Writers Panel Event at The Avondale Arts Alliance. 6: Clarity Fitness partnered with the City of Decatur for their final Walk & Talk group before summer! 7: Decatur FC hosts its first home game to upwards of 1800 attendees in May.
Sweat it out with an immersive workout experience. This musically driven group Barre class focuses on low-impact, high-intensity movements that strengthen and tone your body. This class will be held on July 9th at the Georgia Aquarium in the Oceans Ballroom which has up-close views of our most popular exhibits. All experience levels welcome! If you’re new to Barre this is a great place to start. Register at georgiaaquarium.org/events
Born and raised in the Virgin Islands, Cleo’s passion for skin health began at an early age. In 2021, Cleo decided to pursue her gift and passion for skin care and wellness, and became a Licensed Esthetician, CIDESCO Diplomat, and received her Oncology Esthetician certification in 2022. Her mission is to embrace, enhance, and reinforce the importance of skin health through facial and body skin care treatments from a clinical and holistic approach.
Wild Heaven Beer welcomes Ginsberg’s Refresher to Avondale. This new food concept from Chef Todd Ginsberg ( Fred’s Meat & Bread, The General Muir, Bocado, Woods Chapel BBQ ) was created to complement the lineup of beer, wine, and margaritas at Wild Heaven Avondale and the casual, patio-oriented vibe of the beloved location. Ginsberg’s Refresher operates adjacent to the Wild Heaven patio and customers will enjoy the convenience of ordering beverages and food in a single transaction.
THE OBSERVATORY OFFERS EASY ACCESS TO THE STARS IN DECATUR’S BACKYARD.
ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL | PHOTOGRAPHY
“Enjoy a glimpse into space.”
A beacon of curiosity and the unknown, the eggshell-white dome of Bradley Observatory erupts into view from the tree-covered path leading to its front doors. Dr. Alexandra Yep, Visiting Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Director of the Bradley Observatory at Agnes Scott College, welcomes a group of space-inspired knowledge seekers with a smile and pocket full of quick wit to the busyness of an event for April’s solar eclipse.
Perched high above the city skyline between Winona Park and Oakhurst, the outdoor plaza in the shadow of the observatory provides a perfect view for the fewtimes-in-a-lifetime event. Yep exchanges a handful of protective eyewear and begins a thorough summary of the celestial activity as the crowd waits in anticipation.
It’s only one example of how Bradley Observatory is one of Decatur’s best-kept educational secrets.
Quickly approaching its 75th anniversary, Bradley Observatory has served the exploration of the beyond for amateur and professional astronomers in Decatur well. Its centerpiece, the Beck Telescope, a nearly 100-year-old Cassegrain reflector telescope, was the largest of its kind in the Southeast until the Fernbank Science Center installed one a half-foot larger in the early 1970s.
Despite its age, the Beck Telescope, the observatory's centerpiece, remains a marvel. Weighing as much as a car, it stands out for its size and manual control capabilities, offering a tangible connection to the stars that newer digital telescopes can't replicate.
“It’s easy to sit down and get lost in the wonder of the stars.”
Currently, plans are underway to refurbish the telescope's mirror, a delicate operation involving transporting the 255-pound glass component to New York for resurfacing. The refurbishment of the facility’s cornerstone piece of equipment is expected to enhance its ability to reveal the wonders of the night sky.
“Once the mirror is refurbished, we might use the telescope for variable star studies, asteroid tracking, or spectroscopy of bright stars," stated Yep. "It's not ideal for major research due to light pollution, but it still has potential for smaller projects and, of course, hands-on learning for students."
The observatory’s mission extends far beyond the confines of its dome. It serves as a vibrant educational hub, offering various enriching programs for Agnes Scott astronomy and physics students and the general public. Learning experiences and teaching opportunities will always be at the heart of the observatory, especially for the students it directly serves. Still, Yep says the main goal for the staff is outreach, to enlighten and inform the community about the wonders of space.
"During the semester, one Friday evening per month, we have a public open house where we encourage the Decatur community to enjoy the wonders the observatory offers," Yep says.
These public open house events, held one Friday evening per month during the semester, highlight the observatory's commitment to outreach. They are free and feature an engaging astronomy talk, a captivating planetarium show, and, weather permitting, stargazing sessions using both the main telescope and smaller telescopes set up on the plaza in front of the building.
“I love doing the open house,” Yep says, smiling. “They are a big highlight for me because so many people come in from the community to enjoy a glimpse into space together.
“Anytime you can show somebody Saturn, and they cry? That’s how I want these experiences to be.”
In an area with plenty of light pollution, intergalactic finds are usually limited to brighter objects like the moon or the planets - but that doesn’t stop the staff from finding new things for visitors to explore.
“Occasionally, we get to look at something like the Orion Nebula on really clear nights,” Yep says, referencing the bright nebulae in the center of the Orion constellation.
“Or if we’re really lucky during the day, we can see the sun through a special filter,” she grins.
Local schools also benefit from the observatory's resources. Tours for K-12 students are offered at minimal cost, providing young learners with an introduction to astronomy and the chance to see the impressively large telescope up close. Although daytime visits preclude actual stargazing, the tours inspire curiosity and encourage future participation in the monthly open houses.
On the main level of the building is a host of offices and classrooms, but its most notable feature is the Delafield Planetarium. The 70-seat facility, equipped with comfortable lean-back chairs and a vintage Zeiss projector, gives older generations a glimpse of the magical star show experiences from their childhood. Unlike digital projectors utilized by many newer planetariums around the United States, the Zeiss uses tiny lamps and holes to create a highly realistic night sky simulation.
“It feels much more realistic than the newer versions," Yep noted, emphasizing the immersive experience the throwback projector provides. “It’s easy to sit down and get lost in the wonder of the stars.”
Just ensure you are rested before you visit, for it can be tempting to be quickly entranced by the magnitude of the night sky and drift off into a peaceful state.
Whatever your interest in galaxies beyond our own, Yep hopes that Decatur residents will continue to stop by for one of the observatories' offerings soon.
“We want people to hopefully learn something, but also have fun doing it.”
Dr. Alexandra Yep is a passionate astronomer from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Her fascination with the stars began in childhood, inspired by the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien and H.A. Rey. Despite initially pursuing a different career path due to skepticism about astronomy as a viable profession, Yep's unwavering love for the cosmos led her to shift her focus.
Her educational journey is a testament to her determination and passion. Dr. Yep first earned a BFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College in Boston, showcasing her diverse interests. However, she made a bold decision to switch gears entirely, pursuing a Master's degree in Physics at California State University, Northridge. Her journey continued south, where she obtained her Ph.D. in astronomy at Georgia State University. She is currently in her second year of teaching at Agnes Scott.
ARTICLE BY SABLE MASSINGILL MARTINEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE
UNCOVERING AND SHINING A LIGHT ON THE HISTORY OF DECATUR.
It’s easy to drive through Decatur and notice the beauty around us while thinking of what existed before. Perhaps you’ve even considered this regarding the historic courthouse adjacent to Decatur Square; tucked away in that space isn’t just a beautiful old courthouse, but the DeKalb History Center.
“We call ourselves the keepers of the history. We started in 1947 as the Dekalb Historical Society and their mission was to collect, preserve, and share the history of DeKalb County, which is what we still do today,” says Rebecca Selem, the Exhibits & Communications Coordinator at the DeKalb History Center.
As a membership-based nonprofit organization, to share these stories, the center hosts a variety of exhibits, programs, and tours to help visitors best explore and learn more about DeKalb County and its diverse history.
While most of the unique programming is offered free or at a low cost to the community, membership is vital to the center. It is available at different levels and has different benefits, including early access to tickets and more. Currently, the center has around 300-400 members and encourages interested potential members to check out the center’s website for more information.
Selem curates the center’s rotating exhibits, which have space for four, typically producing one new exhibit annually. This year, the 200 Years of DeKalb County celebrates the 200th anniversary of DeKalb County and honors the wide-ranging achievements our area has seen and artifacts that are well worth visiting the space.
Featured in the 200-year exhibit is the jail docket from when Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested in DeKalb County, as well as Olympics memorabilia and more. Another current exhibit, Home: The United Methodist Children’s Home, was documented through interviews and photographs by Decatur resident Beate Sass over four years, with interview assistance from Moira Bucciarelli.
It's important to Selem to show all parts of the area’s history, even the not-so-pleasant parts.
A third exhibit, The Haven of Health and Happiness, dives into the hidden history of Avondale Estates since its founding in the 1920s. “It’s known for being this ‘haven of health and happiness,’ and we originally planned to do an exhibit on the architecture of Avondale,” says Selem.
But for her, it was the lesser-known history of the area that she knew needed to be told. She was inspired to do this exhibit and uncovered more than just the architecture of the region, through a blog she found written by Kathryn Wilson on the area’s hidden history.
Selem is working on a new exhibit centered on Women’s History which is coming soon. The exhibits are free and open to the public Monday-Friday from 10AM-4PM and on Saturdays from 10AM-2PM. In addition to the on-site exhibits, another popular offering of the center is the walking tours, which Selem encourages everyone to check out.
The 2024 Decatur Architecture Tour explores the architecture and history of East Ponce de Leon Ave. Over an hour and a half and a mile-long walk, participants are introduced to a variety of building types and styles, and whether you’re a lifelong Decatur resident or a visitor to the area, there is something new to learn and uncover.
Additional specialty programs like workshops are also offered throughout the year and include big annual events, like the center’s Black History Month celebration and its yearly Silent Auction which serves as a fundraiser.
On weekdays, the center hosts a variety of Lunch and Learns, which are held at noon so that nearby residents can take their lunch break while diving into various workshops and programs that highlight interesting local history.
The center also offers evening programming with its Hops at the History Center events. On August 20, from 6:30PM-7:30PM, the center is hosting a Hops event on architect William A. Edwards, with a free and public lecture on his work led by architectural historian Robert M. Craig, Professor Emeritus for the College of Design at Georgia Tech.
Another incredible resource that the History Center offers residents is its archives, a free resource that people can utilize to uncover and research any of the wide-ranging biographical files, maps, cemetery files, photographs, and oral histories that the History Center houses.
All if not most of the center’s programs are available on YouTube to help give even more access to the varied history of DeKalb County. The beautiful historic DeKalb Courthouse is also available to rent for private events and can accommodate events ranging from weddings to parties and corporate events.
An amazing resource for all residents, the DeKalb County History Center is located among the bustling and ever-growing downtown Decatur area, while providing a home to all of the history that got our city to where it is today.
CertaPro Painters of AtlantaDecatur, owned by Jeremy and Jen Rhett, is more than a painting business. With every brushstroke, they integrate a strong commitment to community service.
Founded in 2002 to revive Jeremy’s entrepreneurial spirit, CertaPro Painters of Atlanta-Decatur has evolved into a thriving local business. With 15 full-time staff and over 70 skilled painters, Jeremy and Jen have built a substantial presence and a deeply ingrained culture of giving back.
The Rhett family's bond with Decatur is very personal as well as professional. Raising their three children in the community, they focus on revitalizing spaces already full of life and memories. "We're passionate about repainting homes and businesses," Jeremy says, emphasizing their dedication to transforming lived-in spaces. This commitment goes beyond aesthetics, nurturing a strong sense of responsibility to the Decatur community.
How
ARTICLE BY BRITTANY BAKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE
A prime example of their dedication to Decatur is Jen's nonprofit, REAP: Reading is Essential for All People. Created from personal experiences with their sons' reading challenges, Jeremy and Jen started REAP in 2013 to boost literacy in Metro Atlanta schools. A portion of every painting project supports this cause, merging their business with philanthropy.
In the words of Jeremy, "Owning your own business allows you to directly impact your community." This belief is clear in how CertaPro Painters of Atlanta-Decatur utilizes its success to support charitable efforts, strengthening and educating the community. For the Rhett family, each completed project not only beautifies Decatur but also enhances literacy and opportunities locally.
Jeremy and Jen's active participation in Decatur's social life enhances their community involvement. From dining at local restaurants to Jeremy performing with his band "Tiger Kings" at local events, their familiar and friendly presence embodies the spirit of local engagement.
Their story goes beyond entrepreneurial success, marked by impactful contributions that improve community life. Jeremy's vision elevates their painting business into a tool for community enrichment, demonstrating that any business, no matter how local or ordinary, can drive significant change.
As social responsibility gains importance within local businesses, CertaPro of AtlantaDecatur shines as an example of how businesses can robustly support local communities through sustainable practices. Jeremy and Jen Rhett paint a future where businesses are valued not only for their economic impact but also for their social contributions. This truly exemplifies painting with a purpose.
EXPLORING THE HISTORY AND CHARMS OF SOUTHERN SPAIN
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE FICKEN
Traveling does not come easily to me; I’m a homebody through and through. And yet, on a Sunday morning this past February, our neighbors and good friends pitched an idea beyond 30030: Spain in April. By that afternoon, our flights were booked. I’ve never done something so spontaneous. In the two months leading up to the trip, our get-togethers centered around practicing our Spanish, familiarizing ourselves with the geography, and as expected, discussing tapas.
In the foothills of the Nevada Sierra mountains, Granada is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and snow-capped mountains in the province of Andalusia. Its old-world atmosphere makes Granada the perfect destination to begin Spanish travels before exploring more developed cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Granada left me in awe of its green, rolling hills against white stone and terracotta roofs. Surrounded by olive groves, the southern Andalusian culture is rooted in agriculture and slow living: one of notable exploration and discovery.
I don’t take travel for granted. To my surprise, I actively kept a journal documenting our excursions at the end of a long day. I primarily wrote of my gratitude. During the pandemic, I wondered whether I would ever have adventures like this excursion. More so, I wondered whether I would have the opportunity to nourish friendships locally, let alone, abroad. What a privilege it is to travel, and wander Spanish streets; what a treasure it is to have friends who invite you to tag along for their global adventures.
Hotel Casa 1800 is like going back in time. Built in the last third of the 16th century, this boutique hotel sits at the base of the Alhambra with intimate views of the monument. Guests are greeted with an Andalusian patio and a bottle of cava upon arrival. The 300-year-old building holds a rustic elegance with intricate wooden ornamentation and light-bouncing chandeliers. It is steps away from the most authentic aspects of the city such as Sacromonte, flamenco performances, and garden terrace dining.
Café 4 Gatos is a local favorite for breakfast or lunch. Ironically enough, four dogs sat sprinkled leashless on the cobblestone patio during our visit, no cats (gatos) in sight. When in Spain, the Pan con Tomate with Olive Oil is never a wrong decision. The tomato smear is a Catalan staple on most Spanish menus.
For dinner, El Trillo Restaurante Granada overlooks an uplit Alhambra and the village rooftops. This is where that quintessential shot of a patterned tablecloth, a bottle of Spanish red wine, and bread with olive oil might make an appearance on your camera roll.
Watch the Sunrise
If you’re struggling with the time change and find yourself waking up at 5:30 am, hop out of bed and hit the cobblestone streets towards Placeta Cristo de las Azucenas. This courtyard-like park has incredible city views in the foreground of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
The Alhambra
This is, undoubtedly, Granada’s most popular attraction. With Moorish architecture and luscious gardens, the hilltop fortress is stunning. I recommend arriving in the early morning to enjoy quieter moments before school tours and larger groups arrive.
Flamenco
There is no shortage of Flamenco performances in the Andalusia region. Whether you experience Flamenco in a dome-like cave or a larger, stage performance, both provide unique and emotional experiences. We ventured to an intimate Flamenco cave at Cueva Flamenca La Comino opposite the Rio Darro sitting inches away from the performers and feeling the floor move with every tap of their feet.
Olive Oil & Chocolate Tasting
Experience an Olive Oil tasting, followed by a Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Tasting at Al Sur de Granada. This local wine shop is dedicated to improving the quality of life through gastronomy. With an ethical and sustainable approach, Al Sur is passionate about provenience, slow and small production, and hosting a natural selection of wines. In addition to the olive oil and chocolate tastings, they also provide paired wine & dish tastings in their charming storefront.
BODY20 IS DECATUR’S BOUTIQUE GYM OFFERING TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED WORKOUTS FOR ALL BODY TYPES.
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY TOPHAM & CAROLINE FICKEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE
Owners Marci Nessing and Tim Vanderham recently opened BODY20 in Downtown Decatur, bringing a revolutionary twist to working out through electro-muscle stimulation (EMS). With FDA-cleared technology, BODY20 members fulfill wellness goals in quick 20-minute, low-impact sessions with physical results equivalent to hours at a conventional gym.
Before the first training session, members participate in a bioimpedance analysis to calculate body composition. These measurements examine muscle mass, body fat, and body hydration, to determine a personalized workout strategy for each member. After the assessment, it’s time to suit up. By wearing an EMS suit, muscles are stimulated to contract at a faster and deeper pace, allowing the body to build muscle and lose fat quicker. Other benefits from EMS suits include building strength and endurance, releasing tension, and preventing injuries. These individualized, one-on-one, 20-minute trainings transform traditional fitness, helping EVERY.BODY. UNLEASH their superhuman potential.
Health starts with community. Nessing and Vanderham have a passion not only for enhancing the exercise experience but also for engaging the community in fitness-related events. They are regularly involved with local charity runs, Decatur FC, and partnering with like-minded Decatur organizations to further their health-driven mission.
JULY 2024
THURSDAYS
Wine Tastings at Kelly's Market
Kelly's Market | 6:00 PM
Wine tastings are every Thursday night from 6:00 to 8:00. The third Thursday of each month is reserved for wine club members only. Learn more about tastings, wine club, and how to join at kellysmarketdecatur.com
JULY 4TH
Downtown Decatur | 6:00 PM
Celebrate the Fourth of July hometown-style in Decatur. Watch the Pied Piper Parade downtown with floats, wagons, and bicycles at 6 pm, followed by live music at the community bandstand on the square at 7 pm. Get here early to claim your space on the plaza for the evening fireworks display! Fireworks begin at dark, approximately 9 pm.
JULY 9TH
The Georgia Aquarium | 6:30 PM
This musically driven group Barre class focuses on low-impact, high-intensity movements that strengthen and tone your body. This class will be held on July 9th at the Georgia Aquarium in the Oceans Ballroom which has up-close views of our most popular exhibits. All levels welcome! If you’re new to Barre this is a great place to start. Register at georgiaaquarium.org/events
JULY 26TH
Downtown Decatur | 7:00 PM
Come out for free, family-friendly Friday summer concerts on the Decatur downtown square! Bring your blankets to the bandstand and be ready to sing along at our “Summer Covers” concert series. Favorite local bands will perform covers everyone will know. Music starts at 7 pm. In partnership with Amplify My Community.
JULY 27TH
The Atlanta Roller Derby
Agnes Scott College Woodruff Athletic Complex | 5:00 PM
Food Trucks, Halftime Entertainment, Art Vendors, and Hard-Hitting Action! Watch Dirty South Derby and the Rumble Bs take on Windy City from Chicago at 5 PM and 7:30 PM. Driven by the love of the sport, ARD works very hard to give fans more of what they want—intense competition, pulse-pounding gameplay, and a level of in-your-face action and excitement that you won’t find anywhere else.
JULY 30TH
DeKalb History Center | 6:00 PM
Based on Murray Brown's book, A Father’s Letters: Connecting Past to Present, Brown's one-hour workshop provides strategies and insights to wrangle your family history. Murray Browne has master’s degrees in gerontology and a master’s degree in library/information sciences. Retired from Turner Broadcasting, he lives in Decatur and is the owner of a pop-up bookstore, Destination: Books. His website is murray-browne.com
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