Good morning, Decatur.

Lauren Sok, owner of Functionize Health and Physical Therapy in Decatur, was named Woman of Distinction by the Chamber for her work in promoting health and wellness—she has shown strong leadership and care for her patients.

The award was given at a luncheon with keynote speaker Monica Kaufman Pearson and honors Sok’s long career and community impact.

Many Friendsgiving events are planned across DeKalb County this November—such as a dinner club in Dunwoody on Nov.

20, a cocktail making class in Atlanta on Nov. 22, a community gathering at Bruce Street Park on Nov. 27, and Resilient Friendsgiving in Clarkston on Nov. 29 that honors cultural diversity.

The popular Decatur gallery Wild Oats & Billy Goats has been a staple on Decatur Square for 15 years offering unique handmade gifts like jewelry, pottery, paintings, leather goods, stationery and bath and body products.

Located at 112 East Ponce de Leon Avenue, it operates Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The third annual Creole Food Festival will take place on Sunday, November 23—local chefs and vendors will showcase authentic Creole cuisine.

Organizers expect the event to draw food fans from across the community.

The Decatur School Board confirmed during a retreat that any decision on the K-2 school closure will not change the school year—board members clarified that the closure discussion is separate from debates over the new early learning center and redistricting amid community pushback—and no changes will occur before next year. The board is working to refine its messaging as discussions continue.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved a five-year contract extension with American Medical Response on November 18 for emergency ambulance services valued at up to $77,773,900 to increase unit hours to 600 per day and reduce response times.

The contract adds more ambulances, a new nurse navigator program, and AI analytics—steps that have already boosted call response efficiency in 2025.

MARTA will install its new tap-to-pay fare system at several stations over the coming weeks as part of its Better Breeze modernization.

The work will include North Springs on Nov. 25, Kensington on Nov. 26, Doraville on Dec. 1, and Indian Creek on Dec. 3 + additional installations at Dunwoody, East Point, Lindbergh Center, Ashby and Georgia State.

Southwest DeKalb defeated Jonesboro 35-7 on Nov.

14 at North DeKalb Stadium, with running back Joshua Jones scoring two touchdowns and a defense that recorded five sacks. The Panthers will face Kell in the next round — advancing in the Class 4A playoffs.

The Roots to Home Project, founded by Reds players Ivan Johnson and Rece Hinds, hosted a free baseball clinic at Gresham Park on Nov.

15 that trained more than 120 young athletes in hitting, fielding and base running—organizers said they plan more clinics to offer continued mentorship and skills building. The program aims to give high-level coaching and life lessons to kids from underserved communities.

Candlelight Concert: Queen vs. ABBA Tribute

8:45-9:44 p.m. — The Chapel on Sycamore — Tickets required — Experience an enchanting evening of classic hits from Queen and ABBA, set to a captivating candlelight ambiance.

Eddie's Attic Songwriters Open Mic Night

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $11.12 — Experience Atlanta's premiere open mic for songwriters in a cozy setting.

Atomic Lush Live at Eddie's Attic

7-10 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $20.03 — Experience the jazzy and retro sounds of Atomic Lush with special guests The Muckers this Thanksgiving season.

Thanksgiving Day 4 Course Feast

11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Petite Violette — Starting at $64.95 — Enjoy a delectable 4 course feast featuring French Provençal cuisine in a charming setting.

Eddie's Attic 57th Bi-Annual Open Mic Shootout

7-11 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Tickets from $32.26 — Experience a night of talent and unique menu specials at this family-friendly open mic event.

Ellis Paul Concert

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Tickets available — Experience the soulful storytelling of Ellis Paul through his captivating music and profound lyrics.

Son Little Live with Candi Jenkins

7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — $TBA — Experience the soulful sounds of Son Little with special guest Candi Jenkins at this intimate venue.

Christmas with The Currys

7–10 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $26.70 — Enjoy a festive evening with The Currys as they bring their holiday spirit to the stage.

A Jazzy Holiday Celebration

12-6 p.m. — Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center — Tickets from $22.13 — Enjoy an afternoon of jazzy holiday spirit with bass virtuoso Edwin Williams and friends.

Decatur Holiday Marketplace 2025

5:30-9 p.m. & 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Clairemont Elementary School — Free entry — Celebrate the season with handmade goods from talented local artisans.