Good morning, Decatur.

On April 5th at 7:22 a.m., a three-vehicle crash on East Ponce de Leon Avenue between Rays Road and Hambrick Road injured a DeKalb County officer and five additional people near Decatur after an eastbound driver allegedly crossed a double-yellow line to pass—four adults were treated at Grady Memorial Hospital while an 8-year-old received care at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta as officials continue investigating the incident.

A suspect—identified as Santario Barnwell—pepper sprayed employees at Chick-fil-A on the 600 block of Decatur Village Way on April 8 before stealing a cash drawer and leading police on a chase that ended when he collided with a vehicle, killing 26-year-old Richard O.

Wells, Jr.

Downtown Decatur businesses received about $73,000 in grants from the city and the Decatur Downtown Development Authority to improve facades, buildouts, and digital advertising.

The awards—part of a $200,000 fiscal program for 2024-25—require projects to begin within six months and be completed within 18 months.

Georgians are warned that a Real ID is required to fly domestically after May 7—if your driver’s license does not show a black or gold star, you must book an appointment with the Driver Services office.

TSA officials noted that long wait times may lead to travel delays, but passengers can use a passport or military ID until then.

The City of Decatur approved an $8.5 million makeover for the downtown square that will remove the old gazebo to add a new stage, play area, and permanent restrooms and expand green space for public events.

Demolition will begin in the next few weeks — further improvements include moving a fountain and upgrading the MARTA entrance.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners will hold a Committee of the Whole Special Called Meeting and Executive Session on Tuesday, April 15 at 9 a.m. in Multipurpose Room A1201 at 178 Sams Street in Decatur — the agenda includes Committee Reports and reviews of the proposed executive agenda and commissioners’ preliminary agenda for April 22.

At its April 7 meeting, the Decatur City Commission approved an $8.25 million bond to fund Square improvements including a new stage and play area—construction will begin in about six weeks and last 10 months if contracts are approved.

The commission also approved easement agreements for a multiuse path and awarded contracts for an energy efficiency campaign and modifications to special event licenses—measures that support better local facilities and safety.

Rocco Gorelik Live

9 PM — Eddie's Attic — From $16.68 — Experience the soulful sounds of 14-year-old guitar prodigy Rocco Gorelik in a lively performance.

The Fever Dreams and Hot Rod Walt and The Psycho DeVilles

6-10 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Check venue for entry details — Experience high-energy rock from Southampton's The Fever Dreams and more.

Kevn Kinney Live at Eddie's Attic

7-10 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $26.70 — Experience the captivating performance of acclaimed singer-songwriter Kevn Kinney, founder of Drivin-N-Cryin.

Billy Pilgrim Concert

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of dynamic country music with multi-platinum artist Kristian Bush of Sugarland fame.

The Girlfriend's Society Annual Prayer Breakfast

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — 4650 Flat Shoals Pkwy, Decatur, GA — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy a morning of prayer, breakfast, and uplifting fellowship with a supportive community of women.

The Art of Nature Exhibition

4-6 p.m. — Blue Heron Nature Preserve — Free entry — Explore site-specific art installations in a beautiful natural setting.

Songwriters Open Mic Night at Eddie's Attic

7:30-11 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Tickets from $11.12 — Celebrate over 20 years of local and national songwriting talent at Atlanta's premier open mic night.

Comfort Club Live Concert

9 PM – 3 AM — Eddie's Attic — From $16.68 — Experience a night of heartfelt indie pop from Adeline Hill and Comfort Club.

Puma Blue Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Ticket information TBA — Experience the enchanting lo-fi sounds of Puma Blue, the South London artist known for his captivating falsetto and romantic melodies.

Great Wide Nothing Album Release Party

8 p.m. — Thinking Man Tavern — Ticket prices not listed — Experience Great Wide Nothing performing their new album alongside local acts for an unforgettable night.