We are excited to announce that on Thursday, June 13th, we will be holding a public meeting for the PathLink initiative at 6:00 PM at Georgia Piedmont Technical College at 495 N Indian Creek Dr, Clarkston, GA 30021. During the meeting, we will present an overview of the PathLink initiative, outlining our project goals and objectives. This is a valuable opportunity for residents to learn more about PathLink and the Stone Mountain Trail.

We look forward to hearing your thoughts, suggestions, and feedback as community input is essential for shaping the direction and success of this project. Please join us to engage in meaningful discussions, ask questions, and contribute to the future of PathLink. Your voice matters, and we look forward to your valuable contributions!

Mark your calendars and join us to learn more and help make PathLink a community-driven initiative!

DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out: A Day of Unity and Community Spirit

Written by: H.E. Shanta Lana Hereford

Filled with fun activities for all ages, DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive, hosted by The East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation (EMDRF) and the DeKalb County’s Planning and Sustainability Department, painted a vivid picture of community strength and togetherness. Held recently, this event marked a significant milestone in the area’s revitalization efforts, bringing residents, businesses, community leaders, and local organizations together for a day of celebration, collaboration, and connection.

At the heart of the event was the spirit of neighborliness. Families, friends, and local leaders gathered on East Memorial Drive (278 East to 78 East), transforming it into a bustling hub of community. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter, music, and the chatter of people connecting with one another. The event served as a powerful reminder of the community’s potential when they come together for a common purpose.

Central to the success of the Good Neighbors Day Out was the generous sponsorship and unwavering support from Signarama (Lilburn/Stone Mountain), The HYPE Magazine, CommunityMD, Maverick Global Distribution, The Atrium Event Center, Nostalgia Restaurant in Stone Mountain, Lowe’s Home Improvement Stores, DeKalb Chambers, Phenomenal Girls Group Home, ChickFila (Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain), Ours Studios, The Center for Truth and Healing (CFTH), The Home Depot, Color Me Woman, Cultivated Creatives, FOSS Luxury Events, Entertainment to Remember, volunteers, and others, played a pivotal role in making this event a reality. Their commitment to community engagement shone brightly, illuminating the path for others to follow.

The event featured an array of activities, including live music performances by The Mako Girls and Moxie, games and prizes for the kids, local vendors, food, refreshments, and an award show honoring DeKalb County Community Heroes. (See a full list of the recipients below). Local businesses showcased their products, and community organizations disseminated valuable information about resources and services available to residents. Additionally, guests were joined by the presence of District 4 Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, Georgia State Senator Kim Jackson, District 5 Commissioner Mereda Johnson, as well as several candidates vowing for local Commissioner seats.

Beyond the festivities including the excitement and fun of watching our State Senator Kim Jackson do the “Cupid Shuffle”, the event held a deeper significance. It fostered a sense of belonging, instilled civic pride, and inspired a new wave of community-driven initiatives to be led by EMDRF‘s Founding President, Her Excellency Shanta Lana Hereford, and DeKalb County’s Planning and Sustainability Department led by Larry Washington. The success of this day underscores the transformative power of unity, reminding everyone of the incredible achievements possible when neighbors come together with a shared vision for their community.

As the echoes of laughter and the warmth of connections made during the Good Neighbors Day Out linger, the community stands at the threshold of a promising future. With continued support from sponsors and community leaders, there is a profound belief that East Memorial Drive will not only become a regional destination but also a shining example of community-driven progress.

In the spirit of togetherness and shared dreams, DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive stands as a testament to the strength of community spirit and the boundless potential of united efforts. With each handshake, smile, and shared moment, East Memorial Drive paves the way for a future where neighbors continue to thrive together, making their community a better place for all.

Brand Rising, East Memorial Drive!

Published: DeKalb County's Good Neighbors Day Out: A Day of Unity and Community Spirit - The Hype Magazine

The East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation (EMDRF) and the DeKalb County Planning and Sustainability Department are thrilled to announce the plans for "DeKalb County's Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive," a free community event that aims to engage, inspire, and unite DeKalb County residents in the revitalization effort of the East Memorial Drive corridor from 285 East to 78 East.

This event is particularly special as it aligns with the celebration of National Good Neighbors Day on September 28th. The indoor/outdoor event will occur at Memorial Square, 5479 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, Georgia, on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, from 11 am to 7 pm. Admission is free, and the event is open to all ages.

"DeKalb County's Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive" promises to be a fun family experience for the whole community. With a wide array of activities and attractions, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. The event will feature music, outdoor games, local vendors showcasing their products and services, and special guest appearances from esteemed commissioners of DeKalb County and other local community leaders.

Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, a strong advocate for the revitalization of the East Memorial Drive corridor, expressed his excitement about the event. "I am delighted to support and be a special guest at 'DeKalb County's Good Neighbors Day Out' on East Memorial Drive," said Commissioner Bradshaw. "This event not only celebrates National Good Neighbors Day but also serves as a testament to the incredible progress we can achieve when the community comes together. I look forward to celebrating our vibrant community and the positive impact the Memorial Drive Revitalization Plan will bring to our area."

The day will be filled with entertainment for all, including live performances, delectable treats from a diverse selection of food trucks, and activities for the young ones to enjoy. Additionally, the event will feature the "Good Neighbors" awards, recognizing outstanding community members who have contributed to the betterment of the area.

One of the event's key objectives is to actively engage community members in the revitalization effort. "DeKalb County's Good Neighbors Day Out" provides a platform for residents to connect and empower them to take an active role in shaping the future of their community.

"We believe that by involving the community and showcasing the potential of the revitalization effort, we can inspire widespread support for the East Memorial Drive corridor," added Her Excellency Shanta Lana Hereford, President of EMDRF. "Our vision is to improve the quality of life for residents, attract new businesses and investment, and create a more vibrant and thriving community but we need help from community residents and area businesses."

To register for this free event, please visit https://eastmemorialdrive.org. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available for those who would like to participate, for more information, please visit eastmemorialdrive.org.

About East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation (EMDRF)

The East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation (EMDRF) is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization and enhancement of the East Memorial Drive corridor. Comprised of concerned citizens, neighborhood business owners, and dedicated volunteers, EMDRF actively implements the initiatives outlined in the Memorial Drive Corridor Revitalization Plan. Through various projects, events, and collaborations, EMDRF aims to promote economic development, cultural diversity, and community engagement along the East Memorial Drive corridor.

Media Contact: Danyel McBride EMDRF Publicist Cultivated Creatives

info@cultivatedcreatives.co

+1 (470) 446-2579

The Trees and Trails Community Action Group of the Memorial Drive Revitalization Corridor Plan hosted their in-person public engagement meeting on Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023. The meeting was held at 3500 Covington Highway DeKalb County Public Library Conference Room. Over 20 members of the community attended the meeting to learn about the benefits of trails and a proposed plan for a new greenway path that connects Indian Creek MARTA Station to Memorial Dr and beyond.

The meeting was led by the Trees and Trails Chairmember Michelle Newton and presented by PATH Foundation's Eric Ganther. Notable attendees include staff from Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson's team, J.P. Phillips and Amaris Sawyer, and Chief of Staff for Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, Alesia Brooks.

The CAG has opened up a survey to gauge community interest in the proposed PATH trail. We invite guests to look through the attached presentation and answer the group's survey!

Presentation: Click here to view!

Survey: Share your thoughts here!

Update: This meeting has passed.

Trails and greenways benefit communities in many ways, including making a positive impact on health and wellness, offering a safe, enjoyable, and equitable mode of transportation, and providing opportunities for economic development. Join the Trees and Trails Community Action group on Wednesday, August 2^nd, at 6:00 pm to learn more about a proposed bicycle-pedestrian-friendly greenway trail that would connect the Indian Creek MARTA Station to Memorial Drive.

The Public Engagement Meeting will be hosted at 3500 Covington HWY, Decatur, GA 30032, in the Covington Library Conference Room. The meeting begins at 6:00 PM and runs till 7:00 PM.

This meeting has passed. Stay tuned for future updates regarding public meetings for Trees and Trails!

The Virtual Public Meeting was to introduce the idea of a trail from Indian Creek MARTA to Memorial Drive. Guests gave their opinions regarding the trail and are looking forward to the next steps!