Clairmont Heights Civic Association

www.georgiastateparks.org
Tight finances don’t mean you have to give up a spring break vacation. Families that plan ahead can take advantage of affordable accommodations located throughout Georgia’s 48 state parks. For about $24 per night, you can pitch a tent under the stars and toast marshmallows by a cozy campfire. All of our campgrounds have bathhouses with hot showers, and some even have laundry facilities.
Want more comforts? Fully equipped cottages with up to three bedrooms average around $100 to $140 per night, depending on park location. Save money by cooking your own meals in your private kitchen. Finally, those who prefer hotel-style accommodations can still wake up surrounded by beautiful park scenery. Lodges with restaurants can be found at Amicalola Falls, Red Top Mountain, George T. Bagby, Little Ocmulgee and Unicoi state parks. Lodge rates begin at $69.
State parks are like mini-resorts, with a wide range of amenities such as nature trails, playgrounds, fishing docks, ranger programs, disc golf and more. Keep in mind that accommodations book quickly during spring break and summer, so reservations should be made in advance. Call 1-800-864-7275 or www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/springbreak.

METRO ATLANTA

Rawhide to Leather
Saturday, March 6, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn the process of making leather with this hands-on interactive demonstration. The program will cover tools, techniques and preparations for tanning, fleshing hides, and tricks of the trade. Meeting at the nature center. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Introduction to Flyfishing
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join an expert angler and learn about the art of flycasting. Poles will be provided for the class, or anglers can bring their own tackle. In case of inclement weather the class will be held indoors. Pre-registration is required. This class will be limited to 10 participants, class will be geared toward 7 years and up. Meet near the Sweetwater Creek Baitshop. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Backcountry Geology Hike
Saturday, March 13, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Geologist and Friends member John Johnston will lead a moderate three-mile hike identifying rock types and explaining how they formed. Explore the beautiful Jack's Branch area and the seldom-visited rock quarry of New Manchester. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

Lost Person Prevention
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn simple techniques for not getting lost and keeping track of your family when venturing into the great outdoors of Georgia. Search and Rescue Dog Team will be joining the class. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
The two-hour clinic covers equipment, knot tying, casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the “Fish of Fish.” Instructors C. H. Brown and Michael Reilley suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Mountain Top Adventure Hike
Sunday, March 14, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as a ranger explains why the mountain is protected and what we can do to preserve granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray and your camera. Rain or shine. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Saturday Mountain Hike
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola's nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows park visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as the Ranger explains the reasons Panola Mountain is protected, and what we can all do to preserve the natural beauty of granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and your camera! The Panola Mountain hike starts at 10am and generally lasts 3-4 hours. Rain or shine. Call to register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Hills of Iron
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge - Cartersville
Join us for our annual celebration of the iron industry that gave Red Top Mountain its name. You can take a hayride tour of the iron mine area, pay a visit to a nearby iron furnace, and end the day by creating a piece of unique iron artwork when we smelt iron in our cupola furnace known as "Maryanne." Fee for iron molds, plus $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.

Artifact Identification Day
Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville
A professional archaeologist will be available to date and identify artifacts brought in by visitors. $3.50-$5. (770) 387-3747.

Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb
Saturday, March 20, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us "on rope" for an adventure exploring the canopy above. This is an introductory climb to Canopy-Adventure-Research-Educational Technical Tree Climbing (CARE TTC). Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Let’s Go Fly A Kite
Sunday, March 21, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
With spring just around the corner, the piedmont rolling hills and grass lands will soon be alive with the sound of whooping and squealing as mom and dad get their children's kits air born. Pleas join us for this family tradition at Panola Mountain's Alexander Lake Recreational Area. Pleas bring kites, if you do not have one call us. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Early Spring Wildflower Hike
Sunday, March 21 and 28, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This 2-mile ranger-led hike will be moderately strenuous and will pass through a variety of wildflower habitats and beautiful areas. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5876.

Mountain Bike Adventures
Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join the Southern Bicycle League at the Rockdale River Trail parking area by Alexander Lakes for an off-road adventure. This ride will take you to scenic vistas, wetland complexes and pine savannah. Covers most of Panola Mountain's property; both dirt and paved trails. Meeting at the Alexander Lake Parking Area. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.

Reptile Show
Saturday, March 27, 1 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join "Reptile Wranglers" Ken Panse and Zack Panse with their alligator, snakes and turtles for this exciting, fascinating, and educational program. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

“Ruins to Rapids” Full Moon Hike
Saturday, March 27, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia SpringsThis 1.5-mile ranger-led night hike is moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester and follows the lovely rapids (up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. No children under 6 or dogs. Meet inside the Visitor Center. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

From the AJC:

Child-seat checks to be held in Decatur

Members of the Decatur Fire Department will be on hand later this month to make sure child car-seats are properly installed.
Technicians will check the seats before and after the city’s annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 27.

They will do the tests from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. that Saturday in the parking lot of the Callaway building, 120 W. Trinity Pl.

Technicians also are available between 1 and 6 p.m. daily at the city’s two fire stations, on East Trinity Place near downtown and West Hill Street in Oakhurst.

From America on the Move:

Benefits of Daily Exercise

A healthy lifestyle includes eating a balanced diet and incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Being physically active can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. For many of these chronic diseases, diet and exercise are each listed as modifiable independent risk factors. What this means is that both diet and exercise are required elements of a healthful lifestyle. Developing a healthful eating plan without considering your activity level or initiating an exercise program without taking your diet into consideration isn't as preventative as including both as part of your healthful lifestyle plan. Exercise is also great for reducing stress and contributing to your emotional well-being.

Health benefits associated with physical activity:
-Lowering LDL "bad" cholesterol and raising HDL "good" cholesterol—Regular exercise has been shown to elevate HDL-c levels and, in combination with a low-saturated fat and low-cholesterol diet, improve the overall blood cholesterol profile.

-Lowering blood pressure—Exercise can help lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. Elevated blood pressure is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease. Aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 8 to 10 mm Hg.

-Reducing excess weight—Obesity, which is a major contributor to the development and maintenance of the diabetic state, is directly affected by exercise. Exercise lowers body adiposity and, in combination with a weight-loss program, will accelerate fat loss and maintain lean body mass. If you're overweight, losing just 5-10% of your total body weight can minimize the associated health risks.

-Achieving and maintaining good blood glucose control—Moderate exercise is recommended in the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes. Increased physical activity can improve glucose uptake in the cells by increasing insulin sensitivity. Exercise is also beneficial in normalizing the altered blood cholesterol profiles associated with Type 2 diabetes.

-Increased energy levels and reduced stress—Active individuals, as compared to sedentary individuals, are more likely to be better adjusted, have improved cognitive function, and experience fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Exercise also improves one's energy levels, self-confidence, and self-esteem.

-Strengthening bones and toning muscles—Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, or aerobics, is an essential ingredient for achieving and maintaining an adequate bone density. Studies indicate that women who walk at least seven miles per week have higher bone density than women who walk less than one mile per week. Since the effects of exercise on bone integrity are site-specific, it is recommended to do a variety of weight-bearing exercises.


Adapted from an article by Michele M. Doucette, PhD

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Decatur-GA/Earth-Day-in-Decatur/335038253654

Touch a Truck Day
Come out and join the fun at Decatur’s annual Touch a Truck Day on Saturday, March 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The event has been so popular and drawn such a crowd that it has been moved to the Callaway building parking lot, 120 W. Trinity Place.

Children of all ages can see, touch, and explore their favorite truck or equipment on wheels. A
City of Decatur fi re truck, dump trucks, tractors, police cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and many other vehicles will be on display. For information, please contact Greg White, 404-377-0494, or
greg.white@decaturga.com.


New Date for Georgia Rides to the Capitol – March 23
On March 23, the Metro Atlanta Mayor Association (MAMA) will co-sponsor the fifth annual Georgia Rides to the Capitol. The bicycle ride has routes departing from Roswell and Decatur and culminates in a press conference on the Capitol steps.
Decatur’s route is five miles one way, with some hills, and is ridden at a slow pace. It begins at the north parking lot of the East Lake MARTA rail station. Novice and family (and even intermediate) cyclists are encouraged to ride the Decatur route. The ride is free and open to the community. Detailed information about route, time, and pre-registration can be found at www.georgiaridestothecapitol.org.


TOUR deCATUR Returns March 13
Join friends and neighbors on Saturday, March 13, for the eighth annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race featuring a 5k course, a 1-mile fun run and a tot trot.
This year the course will start and finish at the new Decatur High School Performing Arts Center. Proceeds support the Decatur Education Foundation, which helps turn great ideas into programs that make a difference in the lives of children and youth in the community. To register or learn more, visit www.tourdecatur.com.


ING Georgia Marathon Returns March 21
New Cheering Section will be held on the square The ING Georgia Marathon will come through our city on Sunday, March 21, and Decatur invites you to participate as a hydration
and/or cheering volunteer. As the marathon organizers say, “Volunteers are the heart and SOLE of the marathon.”
Hydration Station Volunteers
Volunteers are needed to staff two Hydration Stations, one at the East Lake MARTA station and one in downtown Decatur. Your duties will be to hand out water to the runners and to cheer them on. To volunteer for the Hydration Stations go to www.doitsports.com/volunteer/join-protected-group.tcl?event_id=174848.
Choose either City of Decatur (for the station on Clairemont by the Holiday Inn) or City of Decatur/Oakhurst (for the station near the East Lake MARTA Station). The password is COD.
You can also access this link by clicking on the Volunteers tab under Additional Resources on the ING Georgia Marathon website. From there, you will see a link to join our volunteer group.
Cheering Station Volunteers
Volunteers are needed at the official cheering station on Ponce de Leon adjacent to the Old Courthouse Square and should arrive at 7:30 a.m. on March 21 to help cheer the runners on. In 2007, the City of Decatur won $10,000 for the Best Cheering Station and in 2008 we won $5,000 for the second best station. We want to reclaim our #1 title – so don your orange clothes and come out with a noise maker, signage, and/or a musical instrument. Let’s make noise so the runners remember our city. Runners will vote for their favorite Hydration Stations and their
favorite Cheering Section so we want them to remember us. Prize money will go towards the city’s new walking program, “Walk There, Decatur!” For more information on the marathon, contact Cheryl.Burnette@decaturga.com or 678-553-6573.


Internet Safety Event
Thursday, April 1 • 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Decatur High School Auditorium
Free childcare – registration information below
The City Schools of Decatur, in partnership with Decatur Children and Youth Services, invites all parents and community members to attend a program titled “Internet Safety and Social Networking in the Digital Age.” Hoke Wilcox, Ed.S., an instructional technology specialist from the Educational Technology Center at Kennesaw University, will lead the program.
Parents who attend will receive a book provided by the federal government called Net Cetera: Chatting With Kids About Being Online. The book gives adults practical tips to help kids navigate
the online world.
The event also features City Schools of Decatur media/instructional technology specialists who will be at kiosks to share with parents the online resources their staff and students use daily. They subscribe to such services as NetTrekker, World Book Online, and others providing a safe, efficient, reliable way to conduct online research. Their subscriptions are available to families at home through use of passwords provided by the schools.
Free childcare for school-age children will be provided by Decatur Children and Youth Services. To reserve a space for childcare, RSVP to Heather Borowski, Instructional Technology coordinator for City Schools of Decatur, hborowski@csdecatur.net, or 404-370-3848 ext. 17.

http://www.decaturga.com/client_resources/cgs/citysvcs/ced/focusarchive2010/pdfs/focus_march-2010sm.pdf Page 15

Facts, tips, and information on Safe Routes to School:

"Fun. Children enjoy spending time with their friends. When walking in groups, children of different ages can mix and, once established, walking can build team spirit. Many children choose active transportation, such as walking or cycling, if they are given a choice."

"Safe. Stranger abductions are extremely rare. The more “eyes on the street” the safer it is for everyone. More walkers mean fewer cars and less congestion which again makes it safer for everyone. Cars actually drive slower when there are large numbers of people walking."

"Friendly. Walking in your neighborhood promotes a sense of community. Explore your neighborhood. Get to know your neighbors. Feel connected. At Soquel Elementary School in Santa Cruz, organizers found that a “Walk and Wave” week, where children waved as a friendly gesture to motorists, had a calming effect on traffic."

"Good for Your Brain. Being outdoors is an opportunity for fresh air and light. Children’s senses are stimulated which can inspire different thoughts and ideas—a refreshing change from having their attention focused in closed areas."

Calender:
April 22 - Earth Day
April 25 - May 3: Safe Kids Week
March 23 - Georgia Rides to the Capitol
May - National Bike Month
May 17-21 - Bicycle Safety Week
October 6 - International Walk to School Day

SRTS News: Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign
On February 9th, First Lady Michelle Obama announced her Let’s Move initiative which is designed to solve the problem of childhood obesity in a generation. During her speech at the White House, she spoke about children walking to school and riding bikes. Increasing physical activity is a cornerstone of her initiative, check it out! http://www.letsmove.gov/

Webinar Spotlight: What Does it Take to Get Drivers to Yield? Engineering Measures that Work Tue, Mar 30, 2010 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT

One of the greatest challenges for many schools and neighborhoods is finding the appropriate measures to slow traffic in the areas where pedestrians cross the street. Which devices will be most effective? What are the costs? What are the maintenance requirements? Are there liability issues?

In this 60 minute webinar, engineering experts Charlie Zegeer and Mike Cynecki will share their extensive knowledge and understanding of pedestrian safety and traffic control devices to address these questions. They will discuss innovative devices and the latest research on their effectiveness as well as more standard devices and their appropriate use. To sign-up for this free webinar visit: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/728334985

--

www.SafeRoutesGA.org

Georgia Master Naturalist Classes

2nd Tuesday of Month 9 AM - 4 PM from Mar 9, 2010 until Aug 10, 2010
The Georgia Master Naturalist program is a hands-on environmental education program that explores habitats and ecosystems in Georgia. This program is combination of lectures and outside hands-on learning through field studies and relevant resource materials. After completing this fun and interactive program, the Georgia Master Naturalists are encouraged to share their knowledge with their communities by volunteering in local schools or nature centers. $ For more information on this certification program visit http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/faculty/html/mengak/gmnp.html. Currently offered once a month

Decatur Active Living staff congratulates Coach Carter Wilson for a spectacular career as the coach of the Decatur High School Boys Basketball team!-Click HERE for article from The Champion Newspaper-See article below from the Decatur Bulldog Booster Club Newsletter:Carter Wilson Era Officially Comes To An EndGreat Decatur Fan Turnout Not Enough as Callaway Eliminates Bulldogs 55-45
Several hours after his last game ever as a varsity head Coach, and after the team bus had returned from Hogansville, Carter Wilson gathered his team together inside the home locker at the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center and Gymnasium, a building that he, in no small part, is responsible for getting built.We first met Wilson 29 years ago as Bob Reinhart's fuzzy-cheek assistant. But we've really gotten to know him better the last three years, as we've been privileged to talk with him on a regular basis, while observing his first-rate teaching both up close and from afar. On Wednesday night, after a very tough 55-45 loss to a very good Callaway team, he gave what was surely the most moving speech of his career."This is not the way we wanted it to end," he told his players. "Yet to me you are, and always will be, champions. We did not get the final championship we wanted, and because of that, this is going to hurt for a few days. But never forget what you did. You practiced six and sometimes seven days a week since October. You wind up, in this historic season, in the first season of this new gym, going 22-6, and primarily because of you we've had the best fan support Decatur's ever seen in recent times. For that, and many other reasons, beginning tonight, tomorrow, and from here on, you must hold your heads up like the champions you are. I for one am very proud to be going out with the class of 2010."Perhaps, of course, the best words are born of pain. And make no mistake the Callaway loss was painful on many levels. From our personal aesthetic view, it was painful that Wilson had to coach his final game in such a junky, haphazard venue as the Callaway gym: no P.A., a half-functioning scoreboard, and gory, tar-like splotches dotting the bleachers. This was no place for an important state playoff game to be staged, much less the curtain closer to an outstanding coaching career.But the truth is, whether the game was played in Callaway, Decatur or Timbuktu, the best team won on this night. First-year coach Greg Moultrie burned the midnight oil doing his homework, and there are three examples that come immediately to mind:*He played a box-and-one most of the night, with one man guarding leading scorer Trumon Jefferson, while the other four played an accordion-like 2-2 zone, always ready to collapse on 6-6 Nic Wilson. For Decatur this was nothing new, having seen this configuration previously, three times from Blessed Trinity and once from Lovett.
"I can't remember a season where I've seen so many so-called 'junk defenses'," Carter Wilson said. "I say 'so-called' because they were anything but junk against us. Every time we faced one of those defenses, it was tough for us to score."Moultrie's game plan worked to perfection. Nic was held to 11 points, while Trumon had 12 on just three field goals. "The box and one is hard," Trumon said later, on the bus ride home. "And the guys they put on me were tough. But I can do better, I can work harder to get open, to find my spaces. That's what you have to do in a box-and-one, you have to work harder to get open away from the ball, and I didn't do that tonight."*Contrary to reputation, Callaway didn't play an unfettered full-court offense. Matter of fact there were plenty of times the home team ran half-court sets and even took their time doing so."When we got the lead in the fourth quarter," Moultrie said laughing, "I decided to do that Decatur thing. Listen, I know about Coach Wilson. He's been successful for a reason. I told our guys to slow down, run the clock and no shots unless you're in the paint."The result was that 6-2 senior post Chris Laye had one of his biggest nights of the season, scoring 24 points, most of those (with two major exceptions) coming right around the basket.*Again, contrary to reputation, Callaway did not press for 32 minutes. In fact, for only the second time this season, it didn't press at all."I didn't think a press would bother Coach Wilson much," Moultrie said. "Besides, I figured they'd been working against [the press] all week in practice, so I decided to show 'em something different by not using it. It's kind of like, you show the left, but hit 'em with the right."What he left unsaid is that it's nearly impossible playing an effective box-and-one when you press. On this night Moultrie determined that a sound, half-court defense was his ticket, a decision Carter Wilson definitely appreciated."Moultrie's gonna be a good one," he said. "Well, he already is a good one. I told him after the game to make sure he appreciates these moments. I told him to even keep a record or diary of it, because it's all so fleeting."Wednesday's game certainly opened at a fast pace, with four lead changes alone in the first quarter, which appropriately ended at a 17-17 deadlock. But when Moultrie switched to box-and-one (after opening first in a 2-3 zone and then, briefly, a straight man-to-man) he changed both the tempo and tenor of this game.After Decatur point Shaq Baker hit a three pointer with 1:16 left in the first (Decatur's only three all night) Decatur led 17-15, but wouldn't score again for nearly seven minutes. For Decatur, during this stretch, the box-and-one proved an unsolvable riddle, as Trumon barely saw any touches. "On our team we have what we call a 'three-stop rule,'" Moultrie said. "In other words, every run starts with at least three consecutive defensive stops. And that's what we got in that second quarter. Actually, many more than three. It turned the game around."Callaway scored 10 points during that seven-minute span to take a 25-17 lead, and eventually led 27-20 at halftime. At this point more Decatur fans arrived, adding to the already impressive corps making the 90-minute drive to Hogansville.Many had to wonder if they'd entered the twilight zone. The clock behind one basket had, eerily, no hands, something that's considered very bad karma on at least five continents. Also, several people (including our own daughter) told us how, once they hit the Callaway campus, their cell phones made an enigmatic leap one hour backwards, thus displaying Central Time, which is definitely considered bad karma on every spot of the globe except possibly Alabama.But none of this compared to the halftime show. There was no band, no cheerleaders, no dancing team, no politicians, no fried chicken, but simply a parade of young men marching on the court to launch one mid-court shot after another. Believe me when we report here, balls were flying everyplace, slamming off every available surface including that clock with no hands.
It looked like some bizarre Druid ritual. But in the end, all the half-court shots proved prophetic.Decatur responded to its reinvigorated fan support and quickly erased the seven-point deficit. When Dujon Parker followed in a missed rebound, Decatur lead 30-29 with 3:50 left in the third. For the next two minutes the game tugged back and forth with unbearable tension, but then came single most decisive sequence of this night.With 1:20 left in the third, Decatur trailed 34-32 and was in-bounding under its own basket. The official handed the ball to Trumon, who promptly found Nic open for an easy lay-in to tie the game. Except, another official was conversing at the scorer's table (site for the non-existing P.A.), and this official ruled, we think, that the clock hadn't started therefore voiding the play. Much like the conclusion to the 1972 Russia-USA Olympic basketball championship, the play was re-played, and as for the US that year (where there were actually several replays), it proved a disaster. This time Decatur turned it over, Callaway's Laye hit a short turnaround jumper and with 1:14 left the home team had a 36-32 lead.
Late in the quarter, Dujon scored inside again, making it 36-34, and with time expiring Callaway raced down floor. Back in the first quarter Laye had made a long, awkward-looking two-handed three-pointer - that sort of looked like a bench press - the kind of shot that actually goes in on alternating Wednesdays. But here, with time expiring in the third, he outdid himself. As the buzzer sounded he jumped off one leg and launched a parabola from mid-court - reminiscent, of course, the halftime show - except this one was a perfect swish. End of three, Callaway now led 39-34.
"A devastating shot," said Carter Wilson. "A dagger. It took all the momentum we earned in the whole third quarter and gave it back to them on one shot. Emotionally it was devastating, but it also changed the game strategically. At that point there's a big difference between [trailing by] two and five points."It was big because creating scores proved extremely difficult for Decatur, managing only 11 fourth-quarter points. About midway through, Wilson went to the fouling game which seemed precisely the right thing to do. Callaway only made 5 of 13 free throws all night, for 38 percent, and seemed perfectly vulnerable to this strategy. But the key to the fouling game, if your opposition makes only one foul shot, you've got to respond by hitting a field goal, thus trading one for two. Alas, Decatur couldn't pull this off. "You work your fouls in conjunction with your timeouts," Wilson said. "But you have to make shots, and we had trouble even getting shots. I'd have to check the film, but I think when we fouled at seven (the seventh team foul), eight and nine, we wound up making turnovers after [Callaway shot its] foul shots."Instead of closing the gap, Callaway widened matters, and the final score proved its largest margin.Callaway is now 20-7 and will advance to play an Elite Eight game against Jefferson (which beat Westminster 58-56 on Wednesday; Blessed Trinity was also eliminated, 66-57, by Spencer) Friday night in Dalton. Decatur, as mentioned, finishes at 22-6, and Wilson closes his head coaching career, which includes stints at Decatur, Tucker High, and Georgia State, with 352 wins total.
"I'll tell you something funny," he said late Wednesday, when he was finally alone in The Spike's home locker. "I've been through nights like this, elimination night, as a player, an assistant and a head coach, and it never gets any easier. I'm 56 years old, and it's just as hard now as it was 30 years ago. I ache quite a bit right now, but believe me, I ache more for those guys than I do myself. From day one of practice, they knew the last game of this season would also be my last game, and I could tell, from the beginning, they were playing for more than just themselves. That is something I will never forget."
"I think the most important thing about this season," he added, "is that we put Decatur basketball back on the map. Don't get me wrong, we've always had a great program, good players, and good fan support. But this season we stepped it up big time. Just look at that crowd that came out here Friday (against Chattooga]. That was unbelievable, something to remember, but also something to build on."

The Decatur Education Foundation Needs YOUR HELP!

Please consider volunteering at the 8th Annual TOUR deCATUR Road Race on Saturday, March 13. This is a fun and easy way to support the Foundation as it raises money to support the children in our school system.

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Visit www.tourdecatur.com for information about the event.

We need many hands to pull this off and you will be done by 11am!

Please email Claire McCarty at: cmccarty@csdecatur.net if you can give us a few hours on Saturday, March 13. We are expecting 1200 runners this year and need to be sure that everything continues to run smoothly.

For our children & youth,

Gail Rothman

Executive Director

Decatur Education Foundation

315 W. Ponce de Leon AvenueSuite 770

Decatur, GA 30030

404-377-0641

The mission of the Decatur Education Foundation is to nurture and promote academic achievement and enrichment opportunities for all the children and youth of Decatur, Georgia.

Brrr...it was a very cold morning, but that didn't stop a better than expected number of students and parents from walking and biking to school today! Below are photo's from Oakhurst Elementary. Decatur Active Living staff and volunteers will be at Clairemont, Oakhurst, Winnona Park and Glennwood again this afternoon. Thanks to y'all students and parents for participating today for the 1st ever official Georgia Walk/Bike to School Day!! And ask DAL's Greg White for a cool new Decatur SRTS pencil.

P.S. Decatur Active Living staff members were at work at 5:20 am today preparing for the event, a big thanks to them!

More info. at:
http://www.saferoutesga.org/Happening/Events
http://www.dot.state.ga.us/LOCALGOVERNMENT/FundingPrograms/srts/Pages/FAQs.aspx

Patricia Moncure, a Decatur Safe Routes to School parent Volunteer, and her children

Michael Orta, a SRTS Parent Volunteer, and his son Daniel

Sign up now for Girls Fast Pitch SoftballDecatur Active Living offers a fast pitch softball league for girls ages 9-10, 11-12, and 13-14. Each participant will receive a uniform and award. Practices will be held at Oakhurst Park. The age control date is January 1st, 2010. Fee$100 per player, City of Decatur resident (must provide proof of residency)$130 per player, non-resident VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!If you enjoy the game and enjoy working with others, why not volunteer as a coach? For more information on fast pitch softball and volunteer coaching, please contact Lindsey Struck, 678-553-6550.

Get ready to jump in with the water with the Decatur Gators Swim Team. Registration begins on Saturday, March 27th and we ask that you please register before April 11th if possible. Please register in person at the Decatur Recreation Center or the Glenlake Tennis Center. Swimsuit Fitting Day is Sunday, April 11th, at the Decatur Recreation Center, time to be announced. Every swimmer must be able to swim 25 yards continuously to make the team.

Please e-mail Coach Zeke at decaturgators@gmail.com with questions or for more info. Jabari Cole, Jabari.Cole@decaturga.com, is the secondary contact.

City of Decatur Active Living Aquatics Website

Tentative Decatur Gators 2010 Meet Schedule

May 25th - First Meet

June 1st - Second Meet

June 8th - HOME MEET AT AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

June 15th - Fourth Meet

June 22nd - Fifth Meet

June 29th - HOME MEET AT AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

July 1st & 2nd - County Meet

July 30th & 31st - State Meet at Carrolton

Tuesday Night Table Tennis is canceled for tonight, March 2nd. Join us next Tuesday at 7 pm.

Well, the weather outside is frightful. If you are going to go out for a run, or fitness walk, or have to walk the dog, please remember the tips below (and drivers, please remember HEADLIGHTS ON during the snow and rain!):

-Let someone know you are going out for a walk/run. Warm up briefly before your walk/run (jumping jacks, stretch, etc.).

-Wear reflective clothing. If dark outside, have a mini-light/strobe light visible. Be visible at all times!!!

-Dress in layers to stay warm. Wear a hat. Wear gloves if cold enough outside.

-Don't assume a driver of a vehicle can see you. Be extra careful crossing streets and intersections.

-Stay hydrated. Your body needs to be hydrated in cold weather just as warm weather.

-Watch your footing. Avoid puddles and ice.

-Do not exercise outside if the rain is accompanied by lightning or thunder.

-Carry a cell phone with you in a plastic bag or waterproof carrying case.

-Get out of wet clothes after the run/walk, but don't forget to stretch.

And remember, Spring is coming soon!

This Wednesday is the 1st Annual Georgia Walk/Bike to School Day. Join Decatur Active Living staff and parent volunteers at Clairemont, Oakhurst and Winnona Park Elementary Schools and Glennwood Academy as we greet students and parents before and after the school day. International Walk to School Day is Wednesday, October 6th, 2010.
Wednesday's event is sponsored by the Georgia Department of Transportation's "Safe Routes to School Georgia" program.

Link Updated


The DeKalb Extension Service has several exciting gardening and general interest classes coming up in March:

7 pm, Thursday, March 4th - "How to Start Your Own Honey Bee Hive"
11 am, Saturday, March 13th - "Controlling Rodents Around the Home"
7 pm, Thursday, March 18th - "Rose Care by Stan Leacock"
11 am, Saturday, March 20th - "The Trinity of Southern Gardens: Azaleas, Camellias & Hydrangeas, The Must Haves for Local Gardens"

All classes held at 4380 Memorial Dr., Decatur, 30032. Please register in advance to reserve a seat. Cost is $10 per person per class; discounted rate available for registering for whole series. For more details, please visit http://www.ugaextension.com/dekalb/, or call 404-298-4080.

Pavilions at McKoy Park and Oakhurst Park are now available to rent from March 15th through October 31st. There will be a brand new pavilion at Glenlake Park, however: The new Glenlake Park pavilion will not be reservable until the construction at the park has been completed.

How to Reserve a Park Pavilion<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

<?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Please call the Glenlake Tennis Center, 404-377-7231, to make your request. Please e-mail questions to Jabari Cole.

• Reservations are accepted on a first-come basis.
• Due to limited parking and other scheduled park events, rentals at the McKoy Park and Oakhurst Park pavilions are limited to 75 people per event. Rentals at the Glenlake Park pavilion are limited to 125 people per event.

Fees for park rentals:

$80 for the first two hours and $20 for each additional hour for nonresidents.

$40 for the first two hours and $10 for each additional hour for City of Decatur residents (please provide proof of residency upon request).

Volunteers are the heart and “sole” of the ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon! Please join us at the 4th running of this great event on Sunday, March 21, 2010. There are many volunteer opportunities for you, your family, friends, co-workers, company or organization.

The City of Decatur Police Department is in need of fifteen more Volunteer Course Traffic Marshals. If you are interested in receiving information about this opportunity, please contact Juanchella G. Francis at: juanchella.francis@decaturga.com or 678-553-6656, no later than Monday, March 1, 2010.

Attention All Golfers and Bulldog Supporters!

The 17th Annual Decatur Bulldog Golf Tournament is set for Monday, May 10, 2010 at Mystery Valley Golf Course!!! PLEASE JOIN US FOR A FUN DAY! IT'S FOR A GREAT CAUSE! Put it on your calendar.

If you had a foursome last year, please get them together again and get one more foursome. If you can do that we will have a record turnout. Let me know who you will be playing with this year! Let me know the names of any friends that you know that play golf. Get your husband, wife, kids, friends, co-workers or classmates out here. Forward this message to them and I am happy to contact them too. The Athletic programs can surely use your help!For anyone who has not played in this, it is a blast! It is a great way to get to know many other Decatur parents, students, coaches and players and see your old friends. Whatever year you graduated, get more of your friends from that class to participate. We will have a prize for the graduating class with the most players. If we get 5-10 more foursomes and a few more sponsors, we could raise a record amount of money. We need golfers, sponsors and volunteers! The range opens at 10:00. Shotgun Start is at Noon. The prices are the same this year, no increases. Registration is $150 per person. Hole sponsorships are $200. We will have sack lunches, hole-in-ones prizes including a chance at a new car, a barbecue after the round and plenty of beer and refreshments. Come out and support the Bulldogs.

Make checks payable to:Decatur Bulldog Boosters, PO Box 3241, Decatur, GA 30031

Go ahead and send in your check now so it is not as hectic at registration the day of the tournament and the Boosters will have the funds even if you have to cancel at the last minute. Reply to me at markewhatl@aol.com and let me know your plans! Feel free to call me at 770-673-2155 at work or my cell phone at 678-296-7984. I am happy to answer any questions. Lets have a great time and I appreciate your help. We could truly use your help in securing more players, sponsors and volunteers. Let me know if you would like to help!

Thanks and hit them straight!
Mark Whatley
DBB Golf Tournament Chair