Around Atlanta
From spring hikes in Atlanta State Park to interactive community planning for revitalizing and improving Louise Street park, Atlanta has a lot going on–including the much-anticipated Spring Makers Market.
Miranda Johnson, leader of the nonprofit organization Atlanta City Development Corporation, said she is very excited about upcoming meetings between the advisory committee members and members of the public to determine what is needed to revamp and revitalize the park.
Park Committee members Mr. Shannon Jones, City Manager Danica Porter, Anna Puckett, Donna Rice, and Randal Wilson will be meeting with citizens as early as this spring to get community input on the project, Johnson said.
“Throughout the master planning process over the next several months, the community will be able to provide input at several public meetings, submit feedback on a project website, participate in interviews, and engage in other ways,” Johnson said. “Community members can also give feedback to our Park Advisory Committee which they can consider during our monthly discussions.
Johnson said she is looking forward to having community engagement in the project.
“We want to determine the perfect mix of what is feasible that we can maintain over time, what can be done, and especially find out what the community wants,” Johnson said. “So, basically we are asking ‘what is the true need here’ and ‘what is the highest and best use of this space?’” There will be three public meetings, with the first beginning this spring, though a firm date has not been slated. Johnson said the master plan helps them tackle those phases one step at a time, but that they are leaning on the community for ideas for improvement to Louise Street Park.
“The whole point is to do community engagement instead of us just picking out plans for improvement,” Johnson said. “There will be three public meetings; We will go over a master plan, a final concept, and cost and go through planning phases depending on the cost. Then we will start implementing the design.”
Atlanta State Park will host a Woodpecker Hike at 10:00 a.m. on March 25 as a way to introduce novice birdwatchers to woodpeckers in the park. Rangers say hikers will meet at the Arrowhead Trailhead to learn why woodpeckers are Keystone Species; information about the eight types of woodpeckers found in East Texas; and the adaptations that make woodpeckers master carpenters. There is no additional fee other than the entry fee of $3, with kiddos 12 and under free. The hike should last about one hour and is great for those who are getting into birdwatching.
Rangers say to wear appropriate footwear, bring water to drink, and don’t forget sunblock and bug spray. Binoculars are ideal to bring for bird watching, as well.
Cancellations for any Atlanta State Park events can always happen because of inclement weather, so be sure to stay updated by visiting their Facebook page or calling park headquarters at 903-796-6476. The park is located at 972 Park Road 42.
Speaking of March 25, Atlanta’s Spring Makers Market is going to be humongous this year, according to Atlanta Area Chamber President Jill Crocker.
The deadline to register as a vendor ended just a few days ago, but Crocker was anticipating at least 100 vendors, if not more.
“We are getting pretty close to 100 vendors,” Crocker said last week. ”This event has brought many to the Atlanta Area. Because of the size, we are asking for volunteers before, during and after the event.”
Crocker said that those interested in volunteering to please contact the chamber office downtown. Genesis PrimeCare is sponsoring the much anticipated event, to whom Crocker issued many thanks.
The Spring Makers Market brings together scores and scores of artisans from all walks of life and has become a hit in the Cass county area. The market will be from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 25.
“Homemade. Handmade. Homegrown. All from within 50 miles of Atlanta, TX,” Crocker said.
“Atlanta Local is a vibrant quarterly Maker’s Market where shoppers and creators can connect face-to-face. A celebration of local talent, vendors are encouraged to showcase their homemade, handmade, and homegrown items right in the heart of our community, Downtown Atlanta.”
Amigo Juans will be catering the AAOC Banquet on April 1st. The Banquet will be held from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Multi-Purpose Building.
Comedian Brent Reed will entertain the crowd.
Crocker said those planning to attend the banquet should complete a Banquet Reservation form as there is limited seating. Call the chamber office with any questions about reserving a seat at 903-796-3296.
Free tickets are issued with certain membership/ sponsorship levels.
“Folks, we do still need items for the raffle during the banquet,” Crocker said. “Please consider donating an item valued at 20 dollars or more. This event is a fundraiser for the Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce and allows us to continue to maintain, grow and break new ground in events, advocacy, and membership.”
“Your support is truly appreciated.”