Good morning, Decatur.

Awesome Kids organizer met soccer star Lionel Messi yesterday (July 15) in Decatur to boost awareness of free recreational and educational programs for people with special needs.

EDENS announced that L.L.Bean will open its first Georgia store at the new Lulah Hills development — the 15,000 sqft store joins other national and local retailers and is part of a retail wave expected to start in early 2027 at the corner of Lulah Avenue and Oak Tree Road.

Georgia Power reaffirms its promise to keep energy rates affordable by outlining six key actions - including ensuring large energy users pay their share and investing in grid reliability.

The company projects the average consumer will save $102 a year on energy bills starting in 2029.

Enrollment is open for Seeds to Sow’s Blossom Girlz continuum, a free program that builds confidence and leadership skills in girls 5 — 17.

The nonprofit is hosting an open house Saturday, Aug. 8, 1:30 — 4 p.m. at the Five Forks Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library in Lilburn.

DeKalb County approved an ordinance on July 14 that punishes illegal tire dumping with fines up to $5,000 + up to 12 months in jail, and it may also require cleanups and repairs at offending sites.

Lauren Jones of DaVita Mountain Park Dialysis in Stone Mountain received the DAISY Award for compassionate and respectful care; her nomination praised her calming manner and effective support for patients — a recognition celebrated in 28 countries and all 50 states.

The nonprofit Centurion Foundation paid $95 million for Northlake Mall and attached Emory Healthcare offices in Tucker, with Emory set to lease nearly all of the space for a new campus project.

The sale does not include the shuttered JCPenney site (JCPenney excluded).

Billy Payne explained how the legacy from the 1996 Games set the stage for today’s large World Cup presence & boosted Atlanta’s international profile.

He said his past achievements continue to influence the local sports scene.

Indigo Girls Concert at Decatur Square

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Decatur Square — Free entry — Experience the closing performance of Decatur WatchFest with the legendary Indigo Girls.

Kelly McFarling and Scott Hirsch Concert

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt tunes from Atlanta's own Kelly McFarling and Scott Hirsch.

Soulful Experience Band Live

7-10 p.m. — Waller's Coffee Shop — In-person event — Enjoy a night of chill vibes and live R&B music with the Soulful Experience Band.