08/24/2026
A Letter of Gratitude from the Executive Director:
Last night's People Make the Place reminded me once again why this Little 5 Points community is such a treasure. Yes, it's our annual fundraiser so we are coming together with a financial goal in mind, but this event is so much more than that.
When we all take the time to gather, to enjoy a personal connection, it brings so much joy and gratitude. This photo below truly sums up the moment for me. I'm standing with Abba Carmichael, President of the Little 5 Points Business Association, Tracy Davis, daughter of fallen APD Officer Gregory Davis, and her husband.
Tracy's father was taken from her when she was only 17 years old, and over the past few weeks, I've gotten the chance to know her and her experience. She was so honored to be a part of our event. Her father died in 1988 defending this community, and today we have a plaza and a historic marker honoring his sacrifice.
At the time, Abba's father Bill Carmichael (owner of Abbadabba's) was president of the Little 5 Points Business Association. He gathered with community members to raise money for all APD officers to have bulletproof vests and to dedicate the only public space in Atlanta named for a fallen officer. Now Abba is leading that same organization and is just as passionate about the Little 5 Points community and working hard to support the businesses that are critical to keeping this space vibrant and unique.
I want to thank my board members who showed up and volunteered their afternoon and evening to make this event such a success: Michael de Nie, Carmen Halagahu, Corey Adams, Mike Hastings, David Smith, Abba Carmichael, Banner Banks, and Moss Mills.
Huge thank you to the team at 7 Stages for letting us use your beautiful space each year and to Horizon Theatre for providing the stage set. Thanks to Candler Park Market for providing drinks and the good folks at Java Lords for setting up and serving. Thank you to Pizza Verdura Sincera and Beyond Berry for bringing such yummy food and treats and to Candler Park Flowers for providing beautiful flowers. Thanks to Brent Dey for making truly special videos honoring those we've lost and to board member Travis Sharp and Dad's Garage Theatre Company for providing the laughs once again. Thank you to Jennifer Ohme and Karen Heim for always showing up at this event and keeping me organized. Thanks to Darlene and Steve for sharing your stories about Georgia Works and supporting those experiencing homelessness. Thanks to Wanique, Jerilyn, and Cheranna for telling us the legacy of Sevananda Natural Foods and how it is still such a cornerstone of healthy and natural foods today.
People Make the Place is a coming together of community to celebrate what makes Little 5 Points the special place it is today. None of this would happen without so many individuals choosing to show up and participate. I thank each and every one of you for being a part of it.
Last night we raised almost $40,000 for the Little 5 Points Alliance, and I look forward to putting those dollars to work to ensure L5P remains welcoming, safe, and vibrant.
Thank you,
Lauren
Little 5 Points Business Association Inman Park Candler Park Rough Draft Atlanta
