🌱Increase Of Police' Starting Salaries +Meetings Still Held Virtually

Hi there, Decatur-Avondale Estates. I'm here in your inbox to get you caught up on everything you need to know about what's going on in town. Today we'll cover:

• Clarkston’s city council continues to hold virtual meetings only
• A continuation of support for Black-owned businesses throughout the state
• $4.3 million set to raise the starting salaries for police and firefighters

But first, today's weather: A t-storm around in the p.m. High: 76 Low: 64.

Here's to the wonderful local business who sponsors this newsletter. Check out what they can do for you:

Decatur Parents! Want to turn your kids’ outgrown clothes and toys into income? Rhea Lana's Decatur offers upscale consignment for savvy moms — and their next sale is happening March 12-18th! Turn all that closet clutter into opportunity with Rhea Lana’s stress-free selling process. Want to shop affordably for your kids? You can buy tickets to the sale here — including a special Launch Party on March 10, along with free tickets for moms-to-be! Your wallet (and closet) will thank you.

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Here are the top stories in Decatur-Avondale Estates today:

1. Since the pandemic many government agencies have had both virtual and in-person meetings. Clarkston’s city council, though, continues to hold virtual meetings only. The last time Clarkston held an in-person meeting was March 2020. Surrounding counties have been reported returning to in-person meetings in late 2021 and early 2022. Those that have used hybrid meetings are doing so in order to encourage the public's participation. (Decaturish.com)
2. The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners passed CEO Michael Thurmond’s FY2023 budget yesterday. This includes $4.3 million that is set to raise the starting salaries for police and firefighters. It also includes an increase for veteran public safety personnel.
   This boost in the $1.7 billion budget secures DeKalb’s status as one of the highest paying police and fire recruit governments in the southeast and in the state of Georgia. (On Common Ground News)
3. Throughout the entire month of February, News Team 11 Alive promoted Black-owned businesses throughout the state. Atlanta has been known for being one of the country's largest cities with Black-owned businesses. Though Black History Month has come to an end, Black-owned business are still up and running. Google maps has listed all of the businesses within an article that can be found at Black History content. Those interested can head over to check out the multitude of options. (11Alive.com WXIA)

Today in Decatur-Avondale Estates:

• March Coloring Packets — DeKalb County Public Library (All Day)
• Take & Make Rocket Ship Craft — DeKalb County Public Library (All Day)
• Women's History Month Trivia Challenge (10:00 AM)
• Young Adult Graphic Novel Book Club (6:00 PM)
• JV Soccer vs Grayson — Decatur High School (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Thanks for your generous donations. The beautiful tent at Gleenwood is now being taken care of. The mold that was developing can now be treated by professionals because of those who helped out. (Glennwood PTA via Facebook)
• On behalf of the South DeKalb Transit Initiative Study, MARTA is asking for Decatur's opinions concerning transportation options that will help with future demand. The initiative will focus on improving mobility and accessibility. (City of Decatur GA- Government via Facebook)
• There will be a tornado outdoor testing today at 5 p.m. If the weather isn't fit for the testing it will be postponed to Thursday. (City of Decatur GA- Government via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• Mother Lode's Women's History Month Pop-Up (March 4)
• Add your event

Thanks for following along and staying informed! See you tomorrow for your next update.

— Cherryl Young/ MamaNyeMatters

About me: Cherryl Young DBA MamaNyeMatters. I was born in Providence, Rhode Island and moved to Georgia in 2017. My first children's book, You Are the Pot of Gold at the End of the Rainbow was published in 2021. https://www.mamanyematters.com... I've worked in Atlanta and Gwinnett County Public Schools assisting children who have special needs. I studied Community Development @ Roger Williams University in Rhode Island. My Purpose In Life Is To Connect, Create, Inspire, Write, and Expand and I am ELATED to Be Here as a Contributing Writer @ Patch! Journey With Me...

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Decatur-Avondale Estates Patch newsletter? Contact me at Decatur@Patch.com