Good morning, Decatur.

Playa Bowls opened its new downtown Decatur location on June 14 at 335 W Ponce de Leon Ave — the grand opening offered free bowls and T-shirts to the first 50 guests, and owners Erica and Randy Walker plan to open more shops and work with local groups.

The menu features a range of superfruit bowls, smoothies, cold brew, and juices with options for various dietary needs.

Businesses in Decatur are encouraged by NEXT to prepare for windstorms by establishing emergency plans and reviewing insurance options such as commercial property, BOP, and auto policies—these measures include securing loose items and documenting property conditions to help ensure swift recovery if severe weather strikes.

Mellow Mushroom at 340 West Ponce de Leon Avenue in downtown Decatur is closing its doors after nine years of service — the owner announced the closure on social media without giving a reason.

The Decatur School Board extended Superintendent Dr. Gyimah Whitaker’s contract until June 30, 2028 at its June 10 meeting, raising her salary to $267,800 with a 3% cost-of-living increase.

Dr. Whitaker, who began serving in July 2023, now has a contract that adds one extra year—board officials said the pay aligns with other district personnel.

MARTA approved the NextGen Bus Network plan that will update bus routes and schedules in Decatur—officials say the changes will improve connectivity and reduce wait times.

The new network will roll out later this year—further details will be provided as the plan advances.

Malachi Chaney took his first steps without his walker at Sheppard Center on June 16th—a key milestone in his therapy.

Center staff said this progress marks an important step in his recovery.

Grunge Unplugged: A Tribute to Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, and Soundgarden

7:30-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — $10 — Experience acoustic renditions of grunge classics in a nostalgic setting.

Candlelight - 90s Hip-Hop on Strings

6:45-7:45 p.m. — The Chapel on Sycamore — Ticketed — Experience classic 90s hip-hop hits reimagined with string arrangements in a candlelit atmosphere.

2025 National Pollinator Week Festival

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Decatur Square & Courthouse Parking — Free entry — Celebrate local biodiversity with activities, learning, and family fun focused on pollinators.

Critter Camp Week 4 for Ages 6-9

9 AM – 3 PM — Friends School of Atlanta — $300 — Explore the wonderful world of amphibians and reptiles with hands-on activities and fun facts throughout the week.

Serenity Within: Yoga Nidra

6-7 p.m. — Decatur Legacy Park — Suggested donation of $20 — Experience a restorative evening of guided Yoga Nidra and soothing sound bath for deep relaxation.

Candlelight Concert: Neo-Soul and Hip-Hop

7:45-9 p.m. — The Chapel on Sycamore — Ticketed event — Experience a magical concert featuring Neo-Soul and Hip-Hop in an inspiring setting.

Georgia Spartans Back To School Event

4-6:30 p.m. — Exchange Park — Refunds up to 7 days prior — Kick off the school year with fun activities, games, and the chance to reconnect with friends.

Eddie's Attic Songwriters Open Mic Night

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $11.12 — Celebrate local talent at Atlanta's premier songwriter showcase.

The Attic Sessions: Kenny Banks Jr.

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $32.26 — Experience the dynamic jazz rhythms of local artist Kenny Banks Jr. in an intimate setting.

Freddie McClendon Live Concert

9 PM - 12 AM — Eddie's Attic — From $14.46 — Enjoy a night of live music with Freddie McClendon at this beloved venue.