www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 3
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Winter 2018 CONTENTS FEATURES Navigating Atlanta Like a Native . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . ....10 Why Atlanta Is A Great Place to Live . . . . . . . . . . . . ..28
With a sprawling footprint and four different interstates, Atlanta can be intimidating for commuters. Here’s our guide to getting around.
Discover the many things that make Atlanta not just the capital of the South, but a fantastic place to call home. You’re going to love it here!
Helping Your Child Study Smart .. . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 20 Music City Getaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Homework is a challenging part of every family’s day. Discover some home study strategies for better learning with less stress.
Nashville is much more than just the capital of country music. Go for a getaway and see the many sides of this exciting city.
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DEPARTMENTS In Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta. Homes and Communities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hall County is the city’s thriving northeast neighbor, offering a strong economy, top-notch healthcare, and affordable housing options. See why the area is among Georgia’s fastest-growing.
Neighborhood Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 With affordable housing, excellent schools and easy access to the city, Mableton is an excellent choice for family living near the city.
School Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 A comprehensive guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including counties, neighborhoods, relocation tips and much more.
Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Get caught up on the best exhibitions, theatrical productions, special events and live music across the metro area.
Hidden Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 At the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth, you can discover Atlanta’s history through the stories of vintage trains.
The Walker School in Marietta is building on an accomplished past, with big plans for the future.
Restaurant Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Culinary influences from Maine and Georgia mingle in harmony on the menu at Scout, located in Decatur’s hip Oakhurst district.
4 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
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Michelle Bourg & promotions Jeff Thompson
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Michelle Bourg, Todd DeFeo, Kevin Forest Moreau, Sheena Louise Roetman, Muriel Vega director of sales & marketing
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Newcomer magazine, Winter 2018, Volume 21, Issue 4. Submissions, photography or ideas may be sent to Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Submissions will not be returned unless otherwise requested and accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Newcomer magazine reserves the right to revise any necessary submissions. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication are strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Š 2017 Killam Publishing, Inc.
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6 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
Grades 1-9 Ability Grouping Squirrel Hollow Camp
Challenge course Beautiful 45-acre campus in Fairburn
www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 7
inFOCUS NEWS BITES FROM AROUND ATLANTA
NEW ADVENTURES IN
PHOTO: Courtesy of The Walker School
Local independent schools continue to adopt creative approaches to student instruction. Woodward Academy recently launched a socialemotional learning program called Responsive Classroom, based on the premise that academic success goes hand in hand with the development of qualities like kindness, compassion and empathy. And at The Walker School, freshmen returning from holiday break will take a three-week “Winterim” program (Jan. 3-22), which will incorporate experiential learning and creative problem-solving as students explore new disciplines and delve deeper into interesting topics.
A MUSICAL FIT FOR A KING
PHOTO: Joan Marcus
LEARNING
Colorful costumes, stirring adventure and some of the most memorable songs ever featured in a movie highlight the gorgeous stage production of Disney’s The Lion King. Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta brings the award-winning adaptation of the beloved animated classic to the Fox Theatre for a majestic two-and-a-half-week run from Jan. 10 through 28. For tickets and other information, call 855-285-8499 or visit broadwayinatlanta.com.
A New Year’s Eve Party to Remember
Santa Claus is Coming to Town What better way to celebrate the holiday season than at the spectacular annual Lilburn Christmas Parade? Be there at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2 as Saint Nick takes time out of his busy schedule to ride in a magnificent procession with 100 floats and performers as it rolls down Main Street. And afterward, bring your children to meet the jolly old elf himself at Lilburn City Hall! Visit cityoflilburn.com for more information. 8 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
PHOTO: Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Adults aren’t the only ones who get to celebrate the coming year in style. The New Year’s Bubble Bash at Children’s Museum of Atlanta allows your little ones to welcome 2018 with a familyfriendly dance party, complete with a rockin’ DJ. There will also be a countdown, party favors and (of course) lots and lots of bubbles. Sunday, Dec. 31. For more information, visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
inFOCUS Changing the Way Students Learn
PHOTO: Courtesy of Bridgeway Christian Academy
To help its students develop the skills they’ll need to be successful in a fast-changing world, Bridgeway Christian Academy has partnered with Project Lead the Way to create a new science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program. Students will learn how these disciplines apply to their everyday lives as they take part in hands-on activities and tackle real-world projects. The school currently offers a Design and Modeling course, and will offer an Automation and Robotics course in the spring semester. For more information, please visit bridgewayca.org.
THE PIEDMONT SCHOOL OF ATLANTA Serving Children Grades K to HS with learning and social challenges
Integrating
Academic, Social, and Life Skills Certified teachers deliver a regulareducation curriculum combining: • Georgia Standards • Differentiated group instruction • Community-Based instruction • PE, art, foreign language, and culinary arts • Technology in every classroom
OPEN HOUSE: December 4,10 a.m.-3 p.m. • January 19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • February 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Rolling Admissions. Fully Accredited GAC. Accepting applications for 2018-19 4484 Peachtree Road, NE | Atlanta, GA 30319 • www.tpsoa.org For information or a personalized tour, call: Catherine Trapani, Ph.D., 404-382-8200
Local Cities Make the List Looking for further proof that moving to metro Atlanta is a smart move? Career website glassdoor.com recently ranked Atlanta No. 18 on its list of the 25 best cities for jobs, based on such factors as affordability, job openings and job satisfaction. But that’s not all! Financial site 247wallst.com placed Johns Creek at No. 4 on its list of the 50 best cities to live, citing residents’ high incomes, high levels of education and access to a wealth of leisure activities.
Enabling Children with Learning Differences
to Succeed ✔ Pre-K through 8th Grade ✔ Small group instruction using multi-sensory techniques ✔ Academic programs matched to individual’s strengths Phone: 770-594-1313 I 200 Cox Rd. Roswell
W W W. P O R T E R A C A D E M Y. O R G www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 9
NAVIGATING
Atlanta
Your Guide to Getting Around Like a Native By Muriel Vega
As a new resident, finding your way around Atlanta can be intimidating. It’s a big place, after all, with different neighborhoods and landmarks spread out across a metropolitan area that stretches across several counties. In addition, there are four different interstates criss-crossing the city to keep track of. And of course, there are more than 70 streets with “Peachtree” in the name. To help you get your bearings, we’ve broken down some of the major streets, interstates and public transportation options you’ll need to know. 10 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
PHOTO: Hermann Luyken
Atlanta’s skyline rises serenely above the ever-present traffic.
Gleaming towers line Peachtree Street in Midtown. INSET: Peachtree St. passes Atlanta’s premium shopping and office landmarks.
PHOTO: (Top) © 2013, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com; (Bottom) © 2013, James Duckworth/AtlantaPhotos.com
MAIN ROADS AND HIGHWAYS It all starts on Peachtree Street. Atlanta’s Main Street begins in the Five Points area of downtown, passing such landmarks as the Georgia-Pacific Tower and the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel before crossing northward into Midtown, where you’ll encounter the Margaret Mitchell House, the Woodruff Arts Center (home of the High Museum of Art), and the Fox Theatre. Just before passing Piedmont Hospital, it becomes Peachtree Road (specifically, at Palisades Road) before continuing on to the Buckhead district and Lenox Mall and Phipps Plaza. From there it’s on to Brookhaven, where it becomes Peachtree Boulevard before crossing I-285 to become Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. Other prominent roads to know are West Peachtree Street, which runs parallel to Peachtree
in downtown and Midtown from Spring Street; Ponce de Leon Avenue, which begins in Midtown and travels eastward to Decatur; and Buford Highway, the area’s center of international culture and cuisine, which is located primarily in DeKalb County to the northeast. The Downtown Connector is the unofficial name of the approximately 7.5-mile stretch of
highway where Interstates 75 and 85 merge as they pass together through downtown Atlanta. Also known as 75/85, the Connector begins near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport at the Langford Parkway exit and runs north past the campuses of Georgia State University and later Georgia Tech. The Connector ends in Midtown, at an interchange known as the Brookwood Split. The east side of the metro is served by Interstate 85, which is back to normal after a fire beneath an overpass caused a section to collapse in spring of 2017. Heading south from the Connector, I-85 leads to East Point, College Park and the airport; its northward stretch passes Chamblee, Doraville, Duluth and Suwanee on its way to the Carolinas. Just past Suwanee, it branches off into Interstate 985, which leads to Buford, Flowery Branch and Gainesville. After splitting with I-85, Interstate 75 heads northwest, climbing through Smyrna, Marietta and Kennesaw on its way toward Chattanooga, Tennessee. Its southern stretch heads southeast toward Macon and eventually to Florida. Interstate 20, meanwhile, passes Six Flags Over Georgia on its way from Alabama into Atlanta, crossing the Connector and Interstate 285 on its way to South Carolina. Approximately 64 miles long, Interstate 285 is also referred to as “the Perimeter” because it forms a circle around the city. From East Point in the south, it travels north toward Smyrna before arcing east past Sandy Springs in the north (radio traffic reports usually refer to this section as “the top end”) and then south through Doraville, Tucker and Stone Mountain, and then looping westward toward the airport and College Park. Two major landmarks along this route are the Cobb Cloverleaf, where 285 connects with I-75 northwest of the city, and the Tom Moreland Interchange, or “Spaghetti Junction,” where it intersects with I-85 near Tucker in the northeast. Georgia State Route 400, also known as Georgia 400, splits off from I-85 near the Piedmont Road interchange and cuts northward through the communities of Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta and Cumming, after which it becomes a surface road near North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville. Major landmarks along this road are the Atlanta Financial Center in Buckhead and the Concourse at Landmark Center near I-285, known for a pair of distinctive office towers known as the King and Queen buildings. u
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PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
FOR MORE INFORMATION Georgia Department of Transportation dot.ga.gov
wood in the east and splits from the Blue line after the Vine City neighborhood, terminating in Bankhead to the west of the city. To complement the rail service, MARTA offers bus and shuttle service. Bus stops are located throughout metro Atlanta with affordable fares and reliable schedules. MARTA also offers a free shuttle to Midtown’s Atlantic Station development and IKEA store, which departs from the Arts Center Station on the Red and Gold lines.
MARTA 404-848-5000, itsmarta.com
COBBLINC 770-427-4444, cobblinc.com
GWINNETT COUNTY TRANSIT 770-822-5010, gctransit.com
XPRESS 404-463-4782, xpressga.com
PHOTO: Courtesy MARTA
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) provides rail and bus service to the metro Atlanta area, with four rail lines operating primarily in Fulton and DeKalb counties. All four lines connect, offering transfers at the Five Points station located downtown off Peachtree Street. The one-way fare is $2.50 including transfers, and payment is easy with prepaid MARTA Breeze cards, which can be purchased at the train stations. The Gold and Red lines travel a north-south trajectory, while the Blue and Green lines take an east-west route that runs mostly through the city of Atlanta. The Gold line heads north from the airport through downtown and the business district, past Lenox Square Mall and Chamblee to end in Doraville. The Red line makes the same trek from the airport through the downtown area, but splits after the Lindbergh station and heads toward Buckhead and Dunwoody, ending near Sandy Springs. The Blue line is the longest route, covering Avondale, Decatur, Candler Park, Inman Park, Grant Park and Cabbagetown to the east. To the west, it stops at several landmarks, including CNN Center, Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia Dome. The Green line starts at Edge-
Other public transportation options include CobbLinc, providing bus service throughout Cobb County and to downtown Atlanta; Gwinnett County Transit, serving Gwinnett County with bus service to downtown, and the State Road and Tollway Authority, which operates the Xpress commuter bus service, offering 27 routes across 12 metro Atlanta counties. Now that you’re familiar with Atlanta’s major thoroughfares and transit options, you’re well on your way to getting around the city like a native. Bon voyage!
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HALL COUNTY Living the Good Life in Northeast Georgia
By Sheena Louise Roetman
Located just about an hour’s drive from Atlanta lies Hall County, the thriving hub of Georgia’s northeast region. The county’s population has grown 40 percent since 1990, making it one of the state’s undisputed hot spots. With a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, top-notch education and healthcare systems and a thriving business community, it’s easy to see why the Gainesville-Hall County area is among the top 50 fastest-growing metros in the United States. 14 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
COMMUNITY LIVING
LEFT PAGE: Hall County golfers can choose from several scenic courses. RIGHT PAGE: Luxury homes make for gracious living at Chateau Elan Estates.
One reason residents have flocked to this corner of Northeast Georgia is its affordability. According to U.S. Census Bureau figures, the median home value in Hall County is $240,990; values have increased 8.2 percent over the past year and are predicted to rise approximately 3.8 percent over the next, one of the highest appreciation rates in the state. Another reason for the area’s popularity is its appealing mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. That’s especially true in Gainesville, whose walkable historic downtown is home to more than 50 small businesses, restaurants and shops, and regularly hosts festivals, art shows, farmer’s markets and concerts. Its Northeast Georgia Medical Center, meanwhile, is nationally recognized for its cardiac care. It has been ranked first in the state for heart, pulmonary and women’s care, and in the top 10 percent nationally for stroke, cancer, pneumonia and surgical care by the independent healthcare rating system CareChex. Gainesville is consistently ranked by travel and consumer publications as one of the nation’s best and most affordable places to retire. The town has been named one of the country’s top 10 affordable places to retire by AARP Magazine, which made note of its inexpensive housing, 7 percent sales tax rate, and proximity to numerous attractions. “We’re surrounded by Lake Lanier,” says
Mayor Danny Dunagan. “We’re in the foothills of the mountains, in close proximity to the airport and Atlanta. And the climate is outstanding. Gainesville is large enough to give you everything you want in terms of shopping, medicine, the arts, activities for children, yet still small enough to have that small-town feel.” Flowery Branch, another Hall County city on the shores of Lake Lanier, offers a similar experience. In the city’s downtown district, buildings dating back to the late 1800s and an historic train depot coexist with charming shops and restaurants. The Wrigley chewing gum company maintains a plant here, and the Atlanta Falcons’ headquarters and training camp are based in the city as well. Oakwood, home of University of North Georgia - Gainesville Campus, and the town of Clermont are also located in Hall County. In addition, the county is home to parts of Braselton, Buford, and the communities of Gillsville and Lula.
AN ACTIVE AND VARIED LIFESTYLE Lake Sidney Lanier, more commonly known as Lake Lanier, is one of Hall County’s biggest recreational draws. This 38,000-acre reservoir attracts more than 10 million people every year for boating, horseback riding, camping, zip-line courses and more. Many visitors head to Lake Lanier Islands Resort, a 1,500-acre destination that offers golf, hiking, camping, a spa and the LanierWorld
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TOP: A leisurely stroll on Gainesville’s Rock Creek Greenway. BOTTOM: (Left) The vineyard and winery at Chateau Elan; (Right) Enjoying some wet fun at Lake Lanier Islands Resort.
Area residents enjoy an appealing mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. with performances by the Gainesville Symphony Orchestra, the Gainesville Ballet Company and the Gainesville Theatre Alliance. The Quinlan Visual Arts Center mounts regular exhibits and offers art classes and workshops for both adults and children.
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EDUCATION AND BUSINESS Hall County is home to two of Georgia’s top school systems—the Hall County School System and the Gainesville charter school system—and five independent schools, most notably Riverside Military Academy, one of the only all-boys private military college preparatory schools in the country. The county is also home to University of North Georgia—Gainesville Campus, Brenau University and Lanier Technical College. It’s also only an hour west of the University of Georgia in Athens, and two hours or less from metro Atlanta’s many colleges and universities, including Georgia State University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University and Agnes Scott College. These schools help attract many businesses looking for a well-educated workforce. Hall County is also uniquely positioned as
PHOTO: (Bottom Right) © Lake Lanier Islands
water and adventure park. The lake is also home to two of the largest freshwater marinas in the world: Holiday Marina in Buford and Aqualand Marina in Flowery Branch. Another unique attraction is Chateau Élan, a nationally known winery and resort that includes a spa, golf course, restaurants and a gate residential community, Chateau Elan Estates. The county is home to 25 parks with awardwinning recreational programs for children and adults, including tennis, soccer, baseball and softball. For water sports, there’s the Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, while the 2500-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve provides hiking, horseback riding and biking trails, a wildlife garden, science center and other activities. Golfers have their choice of several public and private championship courses. The area also boasts an active cultural life,
northeast Georgia’s banking and finance center. Asked to summarize the state of the county’s economy, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kit Dunlap says, “It’s doing very well.” This ongoing success is driven by a strong manufacturing presence, with more than 300 companies, including 47 in the Fortune 500, churning out everything from textiles to automobile supplies to consumer goods. Consequently, the area consistently enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state: Between 2012 and 2017, 137 new and expanded industry locations generated nearly 6,300 new jobs and retained over 1,100 more. Dunlap points to several reasons for the strong business presence. “Obviously, being an hour away from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is important,” she says, noting that proximity to ports like Savannah and Charleston helps as well. In addition, the Chamber of Commerce works tirelessly to attract new business to the area, and maintains an existing-industry program to serve the needs of the businesses it already has. And residents looking to spend some of the money they make in Hall County don’t lack for shopping options: Gainesville’s Lakeshore Mall is close at hand and the Mall of Georgia in Bu-
ford offers more than 200 stores. Nearby, the Tanger Outlets in Commerce and North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall in Dawsonville also offer a wealth of selection. Despite its many accomplishments, Hall County is not content to rest on its laurels. Through the citizen-directed Vision 2030 initiative, it is undertaking long-term urban planning and redevelopment projects designed to facilitate infrastructure, improve traffic flow, protect and increase greenspace and create public arts districts. The plan also calls for development of a “live, work, play” district in Gainesville that includes a hotel and conference center, and support of a mixed-use community on Lake Lanier. Other communities, including Oakwood, Flowery Branch and Lula have initiated individual improvement projects as well. Combining a peaceful quality of life with quality education and healthcare and a thriving business scene, Hall County offers a retreat from the hassles of big-city living without sacrificing any of the conveniences or amenities. From young families to retirees, there’s something for everyone. Says Dunlap, “Gainesville and Hall County is a dynamic place to live, work, play and stay. ‘From islands to highlands, we have it all!’”
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Hall County Government hallcounty.org Hall County Schools hallco.org Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce ghcc.com City of Gainesville gainesville.org Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net University of North Georgia - Gainesville Campus ung.edu Brenau University brenau.edu Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu City of Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org Lake Lanier Islands Resort lakelanierislands.com
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neighborhood
SPOTLIGHT Mableton By Michelle Bourg
A
great thing about Atlanta is the many smaller surrounding communities that make it easy to combine a small-town lifestyle with big-city amenities. One of these communities that is poised for future growth is Mableton, an unincorporated area of 37,000 residents located roughly 15 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta in southwest Cobb County. Offering a favorable tax rate, affordable housing and access to the excellent Cobb County school system, it’s just minutes from Vinings, Buckhead and downtown Atlanta. Take a look at Mableton and you’ll see that it truly offers “family living near the big city.”
Housing Vinings Brooke showcases Craftsman-style three- to five-bedroom homes with mahogany front doors, architectural shingle roofs and carriage-style garage doors. Interiors feature 10foot main floor ceilings, chair rail and box detailing and marble vanities. Prices start in the $417,0000s. At Concord Trails, stylish Colonial-style townhomes offer plenty of amenities on three levels, including two-car garages, expansive three-bedroom floor plans and exceptional energy savings throughout. Homes are priced from the mid $200,000s. Currently in the planning stage is a development spearheaded by former Georgia governor and Mableton native Roy Barnes, which will include 101 upscale homes of 2500-3500 square feet priced in the $300,000s.
Vinings Brooke
Nickajack Creek
THE INSIDE TRACK City founder Robert Mable emigrated from Scotland, later buying 300 acres in what is now Cobb County. During the Civil War, his home served as a hospital for Union Troops, thus saving it from destruction. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
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PHOTO: Cobb County Government
Culinary Treats At Mexico Lindo, the menu ranges from standard casual Mexican fare to burgers, wings and spinach salad, as well as a Latin twist on dishes like pan-seared salmon, skirt steak and pork chops with sweet chili bourbon sauce. Locals know that Willie B.’s Sisters Southern Cuisine is the place for down-home Southern cooking, with substantial breakfasts and tasty “meat
Arts and Entertainment The 2500-seat Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre hosts plays and concert performances of all kinds, including the annual free Candlelite Concert Series. The Mable House Arts Center offers year-round gallery exhibits, the annual Storytelling Festival and other family events. The Center also offers classes in theatre and several visual arts mediums for both children and adults. The Thursday Lunch Pail Movie Series screens recent hit films regularly at the South Cobb Regional Library.
Local Treasures Mableton’s many parks make it easy to enjoy an active lifestyle. Nickajack Park and Lions Park offer facilities for tennis, football, basketball and baseball, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas. Thompson Park is perfect for scenic strolls around its wooded lake. Mableton also offers access to the Silver Comet Trail, a paved path connecting many parks and providing recreation for walkers, runners, and bicyclists. N
Silver Comet Trail
PHOTO: Cobb County Government
Concert at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre
and sides” for lunch and dinner. Dining takes on international flair at African Delights, serving both African and Caribbean specialties.
FOR STUDENTS WHO NEED AN
ACADEMIC BOOST THIS SUMMER!
AFTERNOON RECREATION ACTIVITIES TUTORING IN READING, MATH AND WRITING SKILLS
Session 1: June 11 - June 22 Session 2: June 25 - July 6 Held on the campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn 5665 Milam Road Fairburn, GA 30213 770-774-8001 • thebedfordschool.org
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EDU C ATIO N
IN SIG H T
STUDYINGSMART How to Take the Stress Out of Homework By Michelle Bourg
20 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
By taking a step-by-step approach, students can master effective home study skills.
B
ack in the day, homework was something kids could do before dinner—a page of math problems and maybe a chapter of reading, done with the radio or TV on. Not any more: today’s academic environment is much more challenging, designed to help students meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Homework is an integral part of that process. In addition, students encounter more demands on their time, with sports, clubs and community service frequently on the agenda. This means that handling homework assignments efficiently while truly learning from it is an essential skill to learn. “As teachers, we are very cognizant of the work load students are being asked to handle inside and outside of the classroom,” says David-Aaron Roth, an English teacher in the Upper School at Woodward Academy in College Park.
“We work diligently to make sure that whatever assignments are being asked of the students outside of the classroom are truly supplemental and reinforce the learning in class.” By taking a step-by-step approach, students can master the skills required for effective home study—skills that they’ll use throughout their lives.
The first step to productive homework management is to create a designated study space, with space to spread materials out and where parents can keep a watchful eye. Experts recommend keeping bedrooms reserved for sleep to promote good rest habits, and kids’ rooms often hold distractions such as TV or toys, so a laptop at the kitchen or dining room table may be best, at least for younger children. Next, set up a study time. Some kids like to come straight home and start while they’re still in “school mode;” others need to unwind first. Whatever the preferred time is, it should be reasonably close to the same time every day; our minds learn to adapt to functions done on a set schedule, and it’s also a good way to begin to learn time management. Within that set time, experiment with how to prioritize the work load: some kids prefer to start with demanding subjects while they’re relatively fresh and allot extra time to them, while
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Giving kids input on how to work helps create a positive attitude.
others want to get the easier work out of the way first. Scan the day’s assignments together and plan a schedule based on both your child’s study style and the amount of work assigned in each subject, making sure that everything is covered. Children often need guidance with this, but giving them input on how they’d like
to work goes a long way towards a positive attitude about the work itself. Once the books are cracked, be available to clarify instructions or suggest an approach to a problem if needed, but let your child do the work. Meanwhile, observe their progress and note what’s challenging and what’s not demand-
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ing enough. If there are consistent patterns, talk to the teacher to create a solution as a team. When study time is over, review the work with your child. Praise effort and progress, and review problem areas together to brainstorm on how to improve. Inevitably, your child is going to need some
help. When that happens, don’t lead your child astray by trying to be an expert in an unfamiliar subject. It may be tempting to just Google it, but be careful about online resources. Checking the reliability of sources not only helps your child learn to use media responsibly, but also teaches them the most important skill they can
ever have: how to learn. Possibly the hardest part of homework management for parents is to know when to stop and call for reinforcements. Dennis Freeman, co-founder of In-Home Tutors Atlanta, says there are several scenarios in which a family can benefit from some personal help, primarily “When the child is clearly struggling and it’s gone beyond the parent’s capabilities,” noting that 7th- and 8th-grade math is typically the upper limit for many parents. If children actively resist homework, have chronic difficulty getting organized, or are dealing with issues such as ADHD, family relationships can suffer as parents get caught in the stress. Children often respond differently to someone outside their circle, and in these cases, a homework coach helps with academics but also helps keep the child organized and on track, which can make homework less of a burden and just maybe, even fun. “Having a less emotionally attached third party can take a lot of stress out of the household,” Freeman says. There has been an increased focus on standardized testing in recent years; more stringent standards called the Georgia Milestones were introduced here in 2014 and a new edition of the SAT was released in 2016. Freeman says
that his service has seen increased demand as a result of these developments and also that a tutor can provide practice and review for the tests, allay concerns and reassure both students and their parents. Also, just about all families are typically juggling multiple schedules; having someone there to focus exclusively on schoolwork helps everyone meet individual demands and gives them back time to be together as a family. For assistance with locating a qualified tutor that meets your individual needs, a good first step is contacting your child’s school. Other parents may be able to give referrals as well. For routine studying, it’s also possible to coordinate with neighbors or parents of your child’s school friends and rotate supervision duties for needed breaks. By working together with your child to create a plan and getting help when appropriate, you can make sure that he or she works smarter, not harder, to get the most out of homework. Ultimately, kids want to do well, and understand the value of homework in the process of achieving that. Says Roth, “As long as each assignment, paper, test, or quiz has a purpose, I believe students will rally around the work and see the greater goal in mind.”
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schoolSPOTLIGHT
The Walker School
Exceeding Expectations Every Day By Michelle Bourg
I
n 2017, The Walker School in Marietta celebrated its 60th anniversary, looking back to its beginnings as a kindergarten class of 10 students in a church basement. But while proud of its history, and looking ahead to the future, the school is firmly focused on its present as Cobb County’s only independent, non-sectarian PK-Grade 12 school. Central to Walker’s mission and teaching is intimacy of scale: with an enrollment of 869 students, class sizes are small enough to foster genuine relationships between the students and with their teachers and promote personalized approaches to learning. Student learning is the school’s chief priority and the centerpiece of its core value statement, which affirms the development of critical thinking and the school’s role as a “safe, supportive, and challenging environment for learning.” The Walker School offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum. Field trips and enrichment activities supplement classroom learning. As students progress, critical thinking, organizational skills and personal responsibility are increasingly emphasized. The Upper School offers 33 Honors and AP courses and three foreign study exchange programs; the college acceptance rate is 100 percent. Walker students of all ages also enjoy community service and a vibrant co-curricular program. The school fields more than 50 athletic teams in 16 sports, and the Wolverines hold more than 118 state and regional titles. There are six annual theatrical productions and a multitude of clubs supporting both academic and personal interests, including Karate Kids, Model UN, Academic Team, and yoga as well as the visual arts, dance, theatre and musical performance. The facilities and resources at Walker also support excellence in academic achievement, with three libraries housing more than 41,000 vol-
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umes combined, five art studios and 12 science labs. Four computer labs and six mobile labs offer dedicated classes and help to integrate technology across the curriculum. In January 2017, The Walker School launched the “Wonder of We” capital campaign, a $10 million undertaking that will complete the first phase of the school’s master campus plan. It includes the purchase of 18 acres for the expansion of athletic facilities; the construction of a 30,000-square-foot Science and Technology building to house Middle School science and Upper School chemistry, physics, robotics and media tech labs; and the repurposing of former science classrooms for art, band, orchestra, dance and the performing arts. Head of School Jack Hall says that the campaign’s success “speaks to the passion that our parents, faculty, staff and alumni feel for The Walker School.” Walker’s Head of Upper School Michael Arjona has a unique perspective on what makes the school a compelling educational option. A 1997 Walker graduate, he is also the parent of a Walker student. “As both an administrator…and a parent of a Walker student, I see what makes our school unique every day. We are a caring and vibrant community that values the journey as much as the outcome. Our students thrive and succeed because Walker provides each student with a personal educational experience based on his or her talents, interests, and academic goals.” N
THE SPECIFICS Grades: PK-12 Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 Tuition: $12,420-$22,770 Location: Marietta
Contact: Web:
700 Cobb Parkway North, Marietta GA 30062 (770) 427-2689 thewalkerschool.org
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restaurantREVIEW
Scout Restaurant
Casual Meets Sophisticated in Decatur by Michelle Bourg
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PHOTOS: (Left) Mia Yakel, (Right) Shelby Light
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ith attractive neighborhoods, excellent schools, a thriving While the meaning of the restaurant’s name may not be readily apparcultural life and easy access to the city, the city of Decatur is ent, it actually has double significance, as explained by both Martha and one of the Atlanta metro’s most sought-after areas and home Semancik. According to Martha, the restaurant is built on the same values to some of its hottest shops and eateries. Especially noteworthy is Scout, upheld by the concept of scouting: service, commitment to the communithe latest venture of noted Atlanta restaurateur Chris Martha and executive ty and an upholding of high standards. And from Semancik’s perspective, chef Michael Semancik that opened in late December of last year. there’s also the meaning of scouting for the best local ingredients from the Located in Decatur’s Oakhurst district, Scout represents Martha’s first Atlanta area’s bountiful suppliers. neighborhood eatery in 15 years—and it’s his very own neighborhood. Of his creation’s relationship with the area, Martha says, “Whether “My family and I have lived here since 2008 and we love it,” he says. Scout’s contemporary American cuisine is based in local, seasonal ingredients and inspired by Semancik’s previous engagements across the South in Atlanta, New Orleans and Savannah, with a stop in Maine as an unexpected accent. It’s an approach you see on the menu, where Spruce Point Maine smoked salmon resides next to a ricotta and collard green fritter, and taste in the touch of Andouille sausage that enlivens the Bangs Island mussels. Other dishes that are already favorites include Pabst-battered fried cauliflower, the free-range chicken thigh Parm sandwich with tallegio and arugula, and grilled pork tenderloin with sweet potato gratin and french bean salad. The same creativity reigns at the bar, where beverage director Nate Shuman envisions a place where guests will find a great version of their favorite drink. Their new favorite might be one of Scout’s new concoctions like the Oaxacan Gent with Peloton de la Muerte mezcal, lemon, peppercorn, sugar and spiced berry cordial. The Workhorse mixes Cathead vodka, Barrow’s Intense ginger liqueur, lemon, bitters and ginger beer. There’s also a solid Above: Scout’s light-filled dining room. mix of local and regional craft brews and a thoughtful wine list. Left: Scout’s Bangs Island Mussels and Andouille Sausage with crusty bread. Scout makes its home in an airy space inside a former solarium, part of the old Scottish Rite Hospital complex designed by famed Atlanta ar- it be the families and their kids, the walkability of Oakhurst, or just the chitect J. Neel Reid and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. great sense of community, the neighborhood had a big influence on the The space is, like the food, a playful mix, blending the generous windows, creation of Scout. Now I can look around and almost always see a familvaulted ceilings and vintage truss work with light woods and earthy col- iar face.” It’s his hope that the relationship between his creation and the neighborhood it calls home will be ors that evoke a Maine lodge in this graTHE DETAILS one that endures for years. In skillfully cious Southern building. Some whimsical Attire: Casual Hours: Tues-Thurs 5 -10 p.m., combining the charm of a local hangout new elements have also been added to help Atmosphere: Casual, family-friendly Fri -Sat 5 p.m.- late, Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. with family appeal and a quality culimake the eatery a true neighborhood spot: Recommendations: Brunch, avocado (brunch), 5 -10 p.m. (dinner) there’s an elevated outdoor patio, a bocce nary experience, Scout typifies what’s so deviled eggs, creative cocktails Location: 321 W. Hill St., ball court, and a game room with shufflespecial about the community—casual, Reservations: Not required, but Decatur, GA 30030 encouraged Contact: 404-496-6863, friendly, but still sophisticated. Scout is board and a genuine 1950s Wurlitzer bubParking: Available behind the restaurant scoutoakhurst.com bler jukebox. right at home. N
Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia Sowing the Seeds of Organic Learning All day, year-round, authentic Montessori program Montessori certified teacher in every classroom School leadership team with advanced academic degrees Extracurricular activities including art, karate, music, sports, and yoga offered at school Scientifically designed, hands-on, multisensory learning materials Flexible academic program schedules 6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097 • 770-814-8001 • www.JCMSOG.org
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Amazing ATLANTA Discover What Makes the City a Great Place to Live
If you’re looking for a new city to call home, there are many reasons why Atlanta should be at the top of your list. And if you’ve already made the move, congratulations! Either way, there’s a lot to learn about this great city and its surrounding metropolitan area. On the pages that follow, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about this capital city of the Southeast, from its top-flight arts scene to its stellar attractions, entertainment options and rising status as the Hollywood of the South. By Kevin Forest Moreau
The glittering skyline overlooking Centennial Olympic Park’s Fountain of Rings.
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Marveling at the view from the cable car at Georgia’s Stone Mountain Park.
PHOTOS: (Top): Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, GA ; (Bottom) © 2013, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com
The Coke bottle as art at the World of Coca-Cola.
BUSINESS
HISTORY
Atlanta serves as global headquarters to one of the nation’s highest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies, among them Coca-Cola, The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, Aflac, The Southern Company and UPS. On the other end of the spectrum, it’s also a hotbed for tech startups: MailChimp, Kabbage, and Scoutmob all started here. The Atlanta Tech Village in Buckhead is the nation’s fourth largest tech hub, with more than 300 companies. Atlanta also enjoys a robust media industry: Turner Broadcasting, which includes CNN, TBS, TNT, Cartoon Network and other properties, is headquartered here, as is The Weather Channel.
Vestiges of Atlanta’s dramatic history can be found all over the city. The Atlanta History Center traces the city’s past on 33 acres containing two museums, six gardens and two historic plantations. It also runs the Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown, where the author once lived and where she wrote much of “Gone With the Wind.” The Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum features an impressive collection of memorabilia related to the book and movie. You can take a walk into history at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a 2900-acre Civil War site in Cobb County. Ebenezer Baptist Church and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic
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Site are civil rights landmarks, and you can learn more at the Center for Civil and Human Rights. The Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville showcases art and artifacts from and about the American West.
A sunny day on the Oglethorpe University campus in Brookhaven.
EDUCATION The city is home to a wealth of notable independent schools, including Holy Spirit Preparatory School, High Meadows School, The SAE School and Woodward Academy, the largest private school in the continental United States. In addition, several public school systems boast magnet schools and innovative charter schools. The area is also home to more than 40 colleges and universities, including such nationally recognized institutions as Agnes Scott College, Emory University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University and Oglethorpe University. The Savannah College of Art and Design and Macon-based Mercer University both maintain campuses in Atlanta. The city is also the location of several distinguished historically Black colleges, including Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Morris Brown College and Spelman College.
TRANSPORTATION Originally founded as a railroad stop called Terminus, Atlanta is still a major rail center. But its modern status as a major transportation hub is largely due to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, consistently ranked as the world’s busiest. On the ground, four major interstates (285, 20, 75 and 85) conduct drivers in all directions. Of course, that also results in traffic congestion—a reality for any metropolis of Atlanta’s size—but the city also boasts a number of public-transportation options, including MARTA, the area’s main rail and bus service; CobbLinc; Gwinnett County Transit; and Xpress, a commuter bus service. The Atlanta BeltLine, a multi-use trail and park space encircling the city, provides a scenic option for pedestrians, cyclists and inline skaters.
Touching down at the world’s busiest airport.
HOLLYWOOD OF THE SOUTH If you’ve seen a movie lately, chances are it was filmed right here: Last year more than 300 productions were shot in the area, making Atlanta the 30 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
Kids find interactive fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: LEGOLAND Discovery Center
FAMILY FUN Atlanta is a magical place for children. The Center for Puppetry Arts displays hundreds of fascinating puppets from around the world, with an entire wing dedicated to the work of Jim Henson. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers fun, informative exhibits for youngsters and preteens. The LEGOLAND Discovery Center is an interactive playground filled with the world-famous building blocks, designed to delight and inspire children ages 3 through 10. Six Flags Over Georgia offers roller coasters, water rides and other thrills. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids in Gainesville lets children role-play as they climb aboard a real vintage fire truck and airplane. The Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville makes learning about science fun with hands-on exhibits and galleries as well as a planetarium and observatory.
Number One filming location for motion pictures in the world. Television shows, including “The Walking Dead” and “Stranger Things,” are part of the action as well. Several major production studios are located in the metro area, including Tyler Perry Studios and EUE/ Screen Gems, Pinewood Studios Atlanta in Fayetteville, and Three Rings Studios in Covington, a $100 million development for the production of music and video games as well as movies and TV.
HEALTHCARE Atlanta is well known for its hospitals and healthcare institutions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) heads a list of locally based organizations and research facilities that includes the American Cancer Society, the Emory University School of Medicine and Morehouse School of Medicine. Grady Memorial Hospital is renowned as one of the best trauma and burn centers in the nation, while Northside Hospital delivers more babies per year than any other community hospital in the country. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is regarded as one of the nation’s premier pediatric hospitals. The Shepherd Center, one of the nation’s lead-
ing catastrophic care hospitals for patients with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries and degenerative disorders, is headquartered here. Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, part of Piedmont Healthcare, has been recognized on U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Hospitals” list.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Atlanta is the arts capital of the Southeast. The Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre stages thought-provoking and crowd-pleasing works, some of which have gone on to the Broadway stage. The thriving theater scene also includes such acclaimed companies as Theatrical Outfit, 7 Stages and True Colors. The Atlanta Ballet, Atlanta Opera and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra are all world-class performing arts institutions. Venues including Chastain Park Amphitheatre, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, the Fox Theatre, the Ferst Center for the Arts, the Rialto Performing Arts Center, Spivey Hall and Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, among others, host big-name concert tours and high-caliber national theatrical productions. The High Museum of Art, the Southeast’s leading art museum, hosts high-profile permanent and rotating exhibits year round. u
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A Chihuly sculpture is the centerpiece of the formal garden at the Atlanta Botanical Center.
ATTRACTIONS Atlanta is chock-full of exciting things to see and do. The Georgia Aquarium is the world’s largest, with hundreds of species on display, including dolphins and sea lions. The World of Coca-Cola is a colorful interactive shrine to America’s favorite beverage, and Centennial Olympic Park with its dancing Fountain of Rings commemorates the 1996 Atlanta Games. The Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown is home to 30 gorgeous acres of themed gardens and an elevated walkway that lets visitors stroll amongst the treetops. Jaw-dropping dinosaur skeletons greet visitors to The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, which spotlights the natural world with engaging exhibits and IMAX films. Stone Mountain Park boasts 3,200 scenic acres of golf, hiking trails, rides and more, with colossal Stone Mountain as the centerpiece.
SPORTS If you’re a sports fanatic, you’re in the right place. The Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks and the new Major League Soccer franchise Atlanta United FC draw thousands of fans each year. Minor league sports include baseball, hockey, lacrosse and arena football, and the city hosts the PGA Tour Championship and the BB&T Open tennis tournament. The South loves college football, and the city is home to that sport’s new Hall of Fame. And we don’t just watch sports here, we play: The Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association (ALTA) is the world’s largest recreational tennis league, and 60,000 runners trek down Peachtree every July 4 in the world’s largest 10K, the AJC Peachtree Road Race.
SHOPPING For shopaholics, Atlanta offers options to satisfy every desire. Cumberland Mall, Sugarloaf Mills, Lenox Square Mall, Mall of Georgia and 32 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
The Shops at Buckhead is Atlanta’s newest luxury shopping destination.
PHOTOS: (Top) The Shops Buckhead Atlanta; (Bottom) Courtesy of Atlantic Station.
Enjoying an outdoor movie at Atlantic Station.
Phipps Plaza offer hundreds of shops, food courts, movie theaters and more. Buckhead is the destination for high-end retail, with glitzy new outposts from Hermes, Canali, Christian Louboutin and more. Atlantic Station, a mixed-use development in Midtown, is home to such retailers as H&M, Target and Dillard’s. The nearby Virginia-Highland neighborhood is stuffed with artsy clothing and home-décor boutiques, while Little Five Points buzzes with funky record shops and thrift stores. In Alpharetta, shoppers at Avalon browse stores like Free People and West Elm, while outside the city, North Georgia Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets present name brands at bargain prices.
DINING From hot dogs to haute cuisine, Atlanta is a foodie’s dream. The Varsity is the world’s largest drive-in, famous for chili dogs and onion rings since 1928. Paschal’s is world famous for authentic soul food, while Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack is the place for mouthwatering BBQ. Pittypat’s Porch serves upscale Southern fare in an ambiance reminiscent of Tara, and Mary Mac’s Tearoom has been officially designated “Atlanta’s Dining Room” for dishes like fried green tomatoes and chicken and dumplings. The city is also a mecca for trendsetting cuisine, led by restaurants like Bacchanalia and Aria. www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 33
MUSIC CITY
GETAWAY
Explore Nashville’s Rich History and Culture By Michelle Bourg
With myriad museums and galleries, Nashville is an art lover’s dream.
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PHOTO: Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation
As the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Music Row, Nashville more than lives up to its world-famous moniker of “The Music City.” But this thriving metropolis offers so much else to see and do that it could just as easily be known by at least a half-dozen other nicknames. Expand your focus beyond the iconic music venues (but definitely pay them a visit), and you may come away remembering it as a different city entirely.
Thistletop Inn presents an inviting picture with a dusting of snow.
PHOTOS: (Top Left) Fred Peace; (Top Right) Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation
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The “Honky Tonk Highway” is jumping with music day and night.
hether your style is upscale elegance or rustic chic, Nashville has accommodations that will suit you perfectly. A downtown Beaux Arts treasure dating to 1910, The Hermitage is Tennessee’s only Forbes Five Star, AAA Five-Diamond hotel and offers the ultimate in luxury, with complimentary fresh-baked sweets, marble vanities, cashmere and cotton mattresses and twice-daily housekeeping. 21C Museum Hotel combines a boutique hotel with a restaurant and exhibition space presenting curated exhibitions of the best in contemporary art. More art fills the airy rooms, which also feature high-end bedding and plush robes for relaxing. Gray & Dudley serves a thoughtful menu of locally sourced comfort food and craft drinks, perfect for brunch or a low-key evening. For luxury on an intimate scale, try one of Nashville’s bed and breakfasts. Just minutes from downtown, Thistletop Inn is a French-style chateau boasting a two-story rock fireplace and romantic spiral staircases, overlooking 11 acres of woods and meadows. Unique guest rooms include features like floor-to-ceiling windows, beam ceilings and private decks. A private cabin and carriage house, each with kitchens, offer privacy and style. Amenities include luxury linens and toiletries, baths with walk-in showers and WiFi. Mornings start with a sumptuous breakfast in the main house kitchen, served by the B&B’s gracious owners. For the sheer jaw-dropping factor, there’s Gaylord Opryland, a 47-
acre resort with nine acres of gardens, 16 restaurants, and an indoor riverboat ride. Over the holidays, the resort is decked out in millions of lights and a 48-foot-high Christmas tree. Before starting your day, you’ll want a hearty breakfast, and Nashville does breakfast right. Biscuit Love, with locations in the Gulch and Hillsboro Village neighborhoods, has something for everyone. Among the choices are biscuit French toast with lemon mascarpone and blueberry compote, a French omelet with Boursin cheese, and Bananas Foster oatmeal. The Loveless Café has been a Nashville landmark for over 65 years, serving Southern favorites like fried chicken and ham and eggs with redeye gravy to more than a half million visitors every year. Duly fueled up, you’re ready to explore. If you have kids in tow, make your first stop the Adventure Science Center, a 44,000-square-foot space housing more than 175 interactive exhibits. Here the entire family can meet an animated Tyrannosaurus Rex, fly aerobatic maneuvers in the Blue Max flight simulator and view the mysteries of the stars at the Sudekum Planetarium. Cap the visit with a climb up the Adventure Tower, four ascending levels of interactive exhibits culminating in a breathtaking view from the giant globe at the top. Animal lovers will gravitate to the Nashville Zoo, home to more than 2700 animals and 365 species. History buffs will want to visit Belle Meade Plantation, a museum and winery located on the site of an antebellum estate and Thoroughbred
From upscale elegance to rustic chic, Nashville has accomodations for every taste.
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The gallery space at 21c Museum Hotel hosts curated exhibits just steps from the luxurious guest rooms.
The Parthenon brings a touch of ancient Greece to the modern-day city.
Whether it’s art, sports, family attractions or music, the whole family will much to enjoy in the city.
horse farm, dedicated to the preservation of Tennessee’s history and horseracing legacy. A much older period of history is represented at The Parthenon, a fullscale replica of the Greek original, built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition and inspired by Nashville’s nickname of “The Athens of the South.” The Parthenon is now an art museum showcasing a collection by 19th- and 20thcentury American artists. Art lovers will find much to enjoy in Nashville. The Carl Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University hosts touring exhibitions and temporary installations from the University’s permanent collections, including biennial showings of The Alfred Stieglitz Collection, featuring works by Picasso, Cezanne, Renoir, O’Keeffe and other masters. The Art Deco-style Frist Center for the Visual Arts showcases an ever-changing selection of exhibits; visitors can also try their hand at creating their own mas36 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com
terpieces in the Martin ArtQuest Gallery. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a 55-acre art museum, sculpture trail and botanical garden set against the backdrop of the rolling Tennessee hills. If your idea of art is more along the lines of a hat trick or a 50-yard field goal, you’ll be right at home. The NFL’s Nashville Titans make their home downtown at Nissan Stadium and the Nashville Predators of the NHL take the ice just one mile away at Bridgestone Arena. Of course, Nashville is the Music City, and while country is king, you’ll hear all kinds of music here. The Bluebird Café is a legendary venue for acoustic performances by both famous and up and coming singersongwriters. In the Music Row neighborhood, you can visit historic RCA Studio B, where records by Elvis, Dolly Parton, The Everly Brothers and others were recorded. On Broadway you’ll find the city’s famed “Honky
PHOTOS: (Top) 21c Museum Hotels; (Bottom left and right) Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation
Visitors take in the wall of gold records at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
you can sample everything from Jamaican fare to pizza to cupcakes and grab some tasty treats to go while you’re there. Nashville is home to some of the best dining in the South, and as with the city itself, there’s something for every taste. On Broadway you’ll find Jack’s BarB-Que, famous for smoked classics and award-winning sauces. Fort Louise serves comfort food with a twist, including curry fried chicken, saffron-glazed trout with picholine olives and Thai chili wings. At The Treehouse, an unassuming converted cottage (there’s a genuine tree house out back) belies a a creative menu with vegetarian and vegan options accompanied by a carefully chosen wine list and complex craft cocktails. Cocktails, comfort food and simply prepared steaks are given a refined treatment at 5th & Taylor. Whether you experience Nashville as a city for art, history, great food, shopping, or yes, even music, it’s a place you’ll want to go back to again and again, and odds are good you’ll see it as a different city every time.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation
Tonk Highway,” with dozens of venues showcasing every genre of music, day and night. Also downtown you’ll find Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and still a major concert venue hosting marquee talent nightly. Not far away is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, home to 350,000 square feet of state-of-the-art galleries, theaters and archives, as well as the Hall of Fame rotunda, where the names of country music’s legends are enshrined. You can catch some of those legends along with country’s rising stars in concert at the Grand Ole Opry, located in East Nashville. While you’re downtown, stop by some of the many shops and boutiques located in the area’s renovated homes and browse for artisan gifts, home décor items, jewelry and sophisticated fashions. You’ll find plenty of authentic western wear and boots, too. One-of-akind works by local artists can be found to grace your home at the city’s many galleries. Be sure to stop by the Nashville Farmers’ Market, where
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GETTING STARTED
HERE MARTA
TO
THERE Driver’s License
Out-of-state drivers are required to obtain a Georgia driver’s license within 30 days. To obtain your license, you will need to provide the following: 1) Previous driver’s license; 2) Two pieces of identification; 3) An eye exam at the time of issue; 4) A $20 fee (in cash) for a five-year license, or a $35 fee for a 10-year license. Licenses are issued through the Georgia Department of Driver Services at several sites across Atlanta. Call 678-413-8400 or visit www.dds.ga.gov.
Mass Transit
One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.00 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit www.itsmarta.com.
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Car Tag
MARTA Rail Service
You must register your car within 30 days of residency. Bring with you the following information: 1) Car title, name and address of lienholder, or copy of lease agreement; 2) Current tag registration; 3) Mileage reading of vehicle; 4) Proof of insurance; 5) Emission certificate (if applicable). There is an approximate $20 fee for your tag. In January 2006, the state began charging sales
GETTING STARTED tax on vehicles. Your tag office will provide the amount of sales tax on your vehicle. For information on a specific county, contact the appropriate county’s Tax Commissioner’s Office.
Vehicle Emission Inspection
Vehicles dating from 1985 through 2006 model year must be checked each year for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit www.cleanairforce.com.
Driving Tips
The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting. Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 1-877-694-2511, by dialing 511, or by visiting www.georgia-navigator.com.
NEED TO KNOW Voter Registration
Registration applies to U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age. You have up to 30 days before an election to register. Register at your local Voter Registration Office and most public libraries. Refer to the AT&T directory for locations, or download a registration form at www.sos.georgia.gov.
Making a Phone Call All phone numbers in the metro Atlanta area include the area code plus the sevendigit number. To make a phone call, dial one of the four area codes (404, 770, 678 and 470) and the seven-digit number. In general, 404 is designated for intown areas and 770 for suburbs; the 678 and 470 area codes overlay both areas. Cell phone subscribers can choose from any area code when signing up for service.
Registering for School By law, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten and 6 years old on or before September 1 to enter the first grade. To enroll your child in either kindergarten or first grade, you will need to provide the child’s social security number; a vision, hearing, and dental screening from a family practitioner or local health clinic; and immunization records on Georgia State Form 3231.
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COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871
Cherokee County QUICK INFO
Elementary Schools 22 Middle Schools 7 Intermediate Schools 1 High Schools 6 Alternative 1 Evening 1 Per-pupil expenditures $8,578 School & bus information 770-720-2112
County www.cherokeega.com Neighborhoods www.canton-georgia.com www.woodstockga.gov www.cityofballground.com www.hollyspringsga.us www.cityofwaleska.com Schools www.cherokee.k12.ga.us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS HOME SERVICES Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222 ELECTRICITY 706-276-2362 Amicalola EMC Cobb EMC 770-429-2100 Georgia Power 888-660-5890 770-887-2363
Sawnee EMC
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com. TELEPHONE 888-436-8638 AT&T ETC Communications 678-454-1212 TDS Telecom-Nelson 770-735-2000 Ball Ground Windstream 800-501-1754 WATER Cherokee County Water Authority City of Ball Ground City of Canton City of Waleska
770-479-1813 770-735-2123 770-704-1500 770-479-2912
City of Woodstock
770-926-8852
CABLE TV Charter Communications 888-438-2427 Comcast 404-266-2278 ETC Communications
678-454-1212
HOSPITALS Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-720-5100 Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
Avg. SAT Scores Cherokee Co. 1560 Georgia 1460 National 1509
Median household income: $63,518 Median age of residents: 34 Population: 210,529 Sales tax: 6% Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County 770-345-0400, www.cherokeechamber.com Property Taxes Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $26.80; Incorporated Cherokee County, $24.06. Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400
Cagle Dairy Farm, Canton
Located northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry. Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $194,900. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farms, Bridge Mill and Town Lake Hills. Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places to live,
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Ridge Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is prime location for development.
Woodstock
work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.
Neighborhoods
Canton Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills. Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is re-investing in its downtown. As part of its “Streetscapes” program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue
Twelve miles south of Canton, Woodstock is the fastest-growing city in Cherokee County. With a growth rate of 70 percent over the past 10 years, the city has doubled in size. Residents enjoy easy access to Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties. While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown, where antique and other specialty shops are located. Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com
COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools Board of Education 770-426-3300 Elementary Schools 71 25 Middle Schools High Schools 16 Magnet 6 Charter 6 Special 4 Per-pupil expenditures $8,816
Cobb County
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
White Water
Neighborhoods
Kennesaw
One of Family Circle magaCobb County came into zine’s “Ten Best Towns for Famibeing in 1832 when the state lies,” Kennesaw takes pride in its County www.cobbcountyga.gov redistributed land once part small-town atmosphere and boasts Neighborhoods www.austellga.org abundant parks and green space, of the Cherokee Nation. www.mariettaga.gov exceptional recreational programs Named after Thomas www.ci.smyrna.ga.us and top-notch schools, includWelch Cobb, the county www.kennesaw-ga.gov ing Kennesaw State University. experienced a devastating www.cityofpowdersprings.org Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown setback during the Civil features shopping, dining and atWar when most of it was Schools www.cobb.k12.ga.us tractions such as the Smithsoniandestroyed during the Battle www.marietta-city.org affiliated Southern Museum of at Kennesaw Mountain. Median household income: $65,123 Civil War and Locomotive History, Today, Cobb County, Median age of residents: 35 located north of Fulton the Smith-Gilbert Arboretum and Population: 698,158 County, is one of the fastnearby Kennesaw Mountain NaSales tax: 6% tional Battlefield Park. est-growing counties in the Chamber of Commerce nation. With a diverse ecoCobb County nomic base that includes 770-980-2000, www.cobbchamber.org Rapidly defining what’s new jobs in the service, retail, Property Taxes and progressive in quality of life aerospace and technology The property tax is $28.75 per $1,000 of assessed and citizen services, Smyrna sectors, Cobb County ofvalue. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000 fers a quality of life unsurdelivers an amazing sense of style passed in the Southeast. More and love of life. The new Market than $770 million has been spent luxury apartments and condos near Village, home to fabulous restaurants, on transportation improvements in Cumberland Mall, secluded sub- bars and upscale shops and services, recent years, allowing residents easy divisions in East Cobb and horse is the final piece of a master plan for access to Atlanta and the commer- ranches in the northwest corner success. Call it “Main Street USA” or cial districts of Vinings Overlook, of the county. The small towns of “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its Cumberland Parkway and the pres- Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Aus- charm and ability to offer the best in tigious “Platinum Triangle” in the tell still retain their Southern charm fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N amidst urban settings. According to Galleria area. For more counties and neighborhood A variety of housing options the Census Bureau, the median valinformation, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com exist in Cobb County, including ue of homes in 2006 was $205,200.
QUICK INFO
Smyrna
Marietta City Schools Board of Education
770-422-3500
Elementary Schools 7 Middle Schools 1 1 High Schools Sixth-Grade 1 Magnet 1 Per-pupil expenditures $9,061 School and bus information 678-594-8000 Avg. SAT Scores
Cobb Co. 1534 Marietta City 1514 Georgia 1460 National 1509 PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS HOME SERVICES Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222 ELECTRICITY 770-974-5233 Acworth Power 770-429-2100 Cobb EMC Georgia Power 888-660-5890 770-942-6576 GreyStone Power Corp. Marietta Power/ Columbia Energy 770-794-5100 GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com. TELEPHONE 888-436-8638 AT&T Comcast 404-266-2278 770-541-7235 MCI Worldcom Outside Georgia 800-356-3094 WATER Austell Water Cobb County Water Systems Marietta Water Powder Springs Water Smyrna Water
770-944-4300 770-423-1000 770-794-5100 770-943-8000 770-319-5338
CABLE TV Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000 Charter Communications 888-438-2427 Comcast 404-266-2278 HOSPITALS Emory Adventist Hospital 770-434-0710 WellStar Cobb Hospital 770-732-4000 WellStar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 WellStar Windy Hill Hospital 770-644-1000
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COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION PUBLIC SCHOOLS DeKalb County Schools Board of Education 678-676-1200
DeKalb County Located east of Fulton County, DeKalb County is the second largest county in the state with a population of about 705,000. DeKalb County contributes to Atlanta’s status as an “ international city” with its businesses and residences representing more than 30 different countries and 120 languages.
Elementary Schools 83 Middle Schools 20 High Schools 20 Per-pupil expenditures $9,896 School & bus information 678-676-1300 City Schools of Decatur Board of Education
404-370-4400
Early Learning 1 Elementary Schools 4 Middle Schools 1 High Schools 1 Per-pupil expenditures $13,444 School & bus information 404-370-8737
Neighborhoods
Decatur The county seat of DeKalb, Decatur is a charming historic city known for its recreation and pedestrian-friendly streets. Its beating heart
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS ELECTRICITY Georgia Power
404-395-7611
Snapping Shoals EMC
770-786-3484
Walton EMC
770-972-2917
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com. TELEPHONE AT&T
888-436-8638
Bellsouth
404-780-2355 WATER
DeKalb County Water System 770-621-7200 CABLE TV Charter Communication
877-728-3121
Comcast Cablevision
404-266-2278
HOSPITALS Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston
404-785-6000
DeKalb Medical Center
404-501-1000
Emory University Hospital
404-712-2000
Piedmont Hospital and Medical Care Center
404-605-5000
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
Avg. SAT Scores DeKalb Co. 1334 City of Decatur 1577 Georgia 1460 National 1509
The square is also home to some beautiful public art, and hosts numerous festivals, town celebrations and neighborhood events. Decatur is home to a diverse population, attracting young professionals, families, retirees and bright young college students—the city is home to the prestigious women’s university Agnes Scott College, and world-renowned Emory University is just outside the city limits. Older brick homes, smaller bungalows and cottage homes distinguish the community and the surrounding neighborhoods of Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and Candler Park.
Dunwoody
Emory University
QUICK INFO
DeKalb County prosCounty www.co.dekalb.ga.us pers in part due to its exNeighborhoods www.decaturga.com cellent transportation sys- www.druidhills.org tem. Five major road ar- www.dunwoodyga.org teries traverse the county: www.candlerpark.org www.stonemountaincity.org Interstates 20, 85, 285, 675 and US Highway 78. Schools www.dekalb.k12.ga.us Hartsfield-Jackson Inter www.csdecatur.net national Airport is only six miles from DeKalb’s Median household income: $51,753 southern border and the Median age of residents: 35 Population: 739,956 DeKalb Peachtree AirSales tax: 7% port, a general aviation field, is reported to be Chamber of Commerce DeKalb County the second busiest air404-378-8000, www.dekalbchamber.org port in Georgia. DeKalb County is also a leader in Property Taxes The property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for the biomedical commuunincorporated DeKalb County. Tax Commissioner: nity with The Center for 404-298-4000 Disease Control headis the Courthouse Square, which quartered there. The median value of homes in features an eclectic mix of store2006, according to the Census Bu- front boutiques and shops, restaurants and entertainment options. reau, was $190,100.
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In the northern corner of the county is Dunwoody, a popular neighborhood among established professionals and young, upwardly mobile professionals raising families. It is often referred to as the “tennis set” neighborhood because of its numerous recreational outlets that include Lynwood Park and Recreation Center, as well as Blackburn Park and Tennis Center. Cultural attractions include the Dunwoody Nature Center and the Spruill Gallery. A variety of housing is available in Dunwoody, including apartments, townhomes, ranch-style homes, bungalows and mini-mansions with manicured lawns. Nearby Perimeter Mall provides shopping, dining and family entertainment. With its proximity to all major expressways and North Fulton’s booming business opportunities, Dunwoody is a hotspot for families. N For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com
COUNTY INFORMATION
Fulton County filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s Mansion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center. Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot. With more than 200 restaurants, bars shops and luxury hotels, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young professionals.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fulton County Schools Board of Education 404-768-3600 Elementary Schools 58 Middle Schools 19 High Schools 17 Charter 8 Centers 4 Per-pupil expenditures $9,561
Buckhead
Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s
Alpharetta
One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta is home to approximately 62,000 residents, according to 2012 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. They're drawn to its mix of big-city vitality and small-town charm, as well as its many amenities and affordable housing options. Homes range Median household income: $57,664 from large apartment comMedian age of residents: 34 munities to elegant subPopulation: 977,773 Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8% divisions, with a median value of $324,300. Chamber of Commerce Alpharetta offers a vaGreater North Fulton riety of parks and outdoor 770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.com Metro Atlanta attractions, including the 404-880-9000, www.metroatlantachamber.com Big Creek Greenway trail. South Fulton Shoppers flock to North 770-964-1984, www.southfultonchamber.com Point Mall for a multiProperty Taxes tude of retail options. The The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: city’s historic downtown $44.12 for the City of Atlanta; $29.13 for incorporated area boasts an appealing Fulton County; $41.60 for unincorporated Fulton town square surrounded County; $33.75 for Johns Creek; $33.86 for Sandy by restaurants and shops. Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100 The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre hosts big-name The neighborhood also offers numerconcerts each summer. N ous antique stores, art galleries and For more counties and neighborhood mall shopping at Lenox Square and information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com Phipps Plaza..
County www.co.fulton.ga.us Neighborhoods www.alpharetta.ga.us www.buckhead.net www.virginiahighland.com www.eastpointcity.org www.collegeparkga.com www.hapeville.org www.roswellgov.com www.sandyspringsga.org www.fultonschools.org Schools www.atlanta.k12.ga.us
404-802-3500
Elementary Schools 52 Middle Schools 14 High Schools 20 Charter 15 Alternative 6 Per-pupil expenditures $13,069 School & bus information 404-802-5500
Downtown Atlanta skyline
QUICK INFO
Neighborhoods
Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development.
Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here. More than 970,000 people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $246,200. Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options. Midtown Atlanta is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular green space, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts.
EDUCATION
Avg. SAT Scores Fulton Co. 1567 Georgia 1452 National 1498 PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS ELECTRICITY 404-669-3759 City of College Park City of East Point 404-270-7010 City of Fairburn 770-964-3481 City of Palmetto 770-463-3322 Georgia Power 888-660-5890 GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com. TELEPHONE AT&T 866-271-9724 Comcast 404-266-2278
Fulton County
WATER
404-730-6830
CABLE TV Charter Communications 887-906-9121 Comcast 404-266-2278 HOSPITALS Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000 Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111 Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta 404-785-9500 at Hughes Spalding Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-5252 Emory University Hospital Midtown 404-778-2000 Grady Memorial Hospital 404-606-1000 North Fulton Regional Hospital 770-751-2500 Northside Hospital 404-851-8000 Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000 Shepherd Center 404-352-2020 St. Joseph’s Hospital 678-843-7001
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COUNTY INFORMATION PUBLIC SCHOOLS Gwinnett County Schools Board of Education 678-301-6000 Elementary Schools 72 Middle Schools 24 High Schools 20 Alternative 6 Open Campus 1 Per-pupil expenditures $8,338 City Schools of Buford Board of Education
770-945-5035
Elementary Schools 1 Middle Schools 1 High Schools 1 Academy 1 Per-pupil expenditures $10,198 Avg. SAT Scores Gwinnett Co. 1526 City of Buford 1455 Georgia 1460 National 1509 PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS ELECTRICITY City of Buford 770-945-6761 770-963-2414 City of Lawrenceville City of Norcross 770-448-2122 Georgia Power 404-395-7611 770-963-6166 Jackson EMC Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363 770-972-2917 Walton EMC GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.
AT&T
TELEPHONE 888-436-8638
WATER Buford 770-889-4600 Dacula 770-963-7451 Gwinnett City Water 678-376-6800 Lawrenceville 770-963-2414 Norcross 770-448-2122 CABLE TV Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000 Charter Communications
888-438-2427
Comcast 404-266-2278 HOSPITALS Emory Eastside Medical Center
770-736-2400
Joan Glancy Memorial Hospital 678-584-6800 Gwinnett Medical Center
678-312-4321
Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 678-312-4770 Summit Ridge Center for Behavorial Health 770-822-2200
Gwinnett County
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
EDUCATION
for any railroad aficionado. Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation, and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.
Suwanee
Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th Originally part of Georgia’s century. Following the official Native American territory, Gwinnett founding of the city in 1837, County was created by the State Suwanee became a railroad stop Legislature in 1818 and named after along the Southern Railroad route. It Button Gwinnett, the third signer of remained a small country town well the Declaration of Independence and into the ’70s when construction of a former state governor. I-85 and U.S. 23 brought While the county was easy access to the region. once largely rural with small Since then, Suwanee County www.co.gwinnett.ga.us towns, country stores, farms has experienced tremenNeighborhoods www.cityofbuford.com dous growth, from 2,000 and forests, today it is home to www.duluthga.net residents in 1990 to more than 245 international www.snellville.org more than 10,000 today. companies and 450 high-tech www.suwanee.com firms. With an average of 260 Schools www.bufordcityschools.org To help manage growth, the city has developed new professional and industrial www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us a comprehensive developcompanies relocating to the Median household income: $64,005 ment plan that promotes county each year, attracting more Median age of residents: 33 pedestrian-oriented dethan 6,000 new jobs, Gwinnett Population: 789,499 velopment and mixedCounty remains in the top 10 Sales tax: 6% use zoning. Designated ranking for growth nationwide. Chamber of Commerce a Tree City USA for more The county supports many Gwinnett County than 10 years, the city cultural events, restaurants 770-232-3000, www.gwinnettchamber.org is committed to preserving and shopping opportunities, Property Taxes 27 percent of its land as including the Mall of Georgia. The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett green space. Gwinnett County remains County is $31.77 per $1,000 of assessed value. Such foresight has affordable for renters and firstTax Commissioner: 770-822-8800. allowed Suwanee to retain time home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of of the most exclusive neighborhoods its old-fashioned charm while proDoraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. in Metro Atlanta and is home to viding contemporary convenience. The median value of homes in 2006, some of the best golf courses and Only 35 miles from downtown Ataccording to the Census Bureau, was private tennis clubs. There are lanta, Suwanee is close to big-city numerous parks for recreation and attractions, business districts and $193,100. participatory sports, including shopping. Many antique shops and Bunten Road Park and “Shorty” historic structures, including severHowell Park. Two major malls, al Victorian and regional farm-style Gwinnett Place and Northpoint, homes, are located near downtown are located near Duluth. The Suwanee. N Southeastern Railway Museum, For more counties and neighborhood Amidst the pristine setting of which preserves and operates old information, visit our Web site at Gwinnett County, Duluth has some railroad equipment, is a must-see www.newcomeratlanta.com
Mall of Georgia
QUICK INFO
Neighborhoods
Duluth
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CANTERBURY SCHOOL Keeping alive children’s inborn sense of wonder
Infants - Pre K Grades K-3 Afterschool and summer camp Located in Morningside, convenient to Downtown, Midtown, Druid Hills, Buckhead, Decatur, L5P Canterbury School practices a nondiscriminatory admission policy.
Call 404-522-5659 For more information canterburyschoolga.com www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 47
upcomingEVENTS
Miranda Lambert, Infinite Energy Center The country music superstar performs, along with special guests Jon Pardi and Brent Cobb. Jan. 20, 770-626-2464, infiniteenergycenter.com.
Nufonia Must Fall, Ferst Center for the Arts This multimedia performance about a robot who falls in love with a human mixes film, puppetry and live instrumentation by DJ Kid Koala (who also wrote the graphic novel of the same name) and a string quartet. Feb. 12-13,
Deck the Hall, Duluth Town Green
Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, Fox Theatre This lavish production of the holiday classic features dazzling choreography, beautiful costumes, scenic backdrops, and live music performed by Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. This is your last chance to see this version before a new Nutcracker debuts in 2018! Dec. 8 through 17, 855-285-8499, atlantaballet.com.
A Christmas Carol, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre The Alliance Theatre brings Charles Dickens’ classic Yuletide tale to the Cobb Energy Centre with an all-star Atlanta cast. Dec. 8-24, 404-733-4650, alliancetheatre.org.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Infinite Energy Center The progressive rock ensemble performs music from “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” and other works. Dec. 9, 770-626-2464, infiniteenergycenter.com.
Katy Perry, Philips Arena The pop singer performs songs from throughout her career. Dec. 12, 800-745-3000, philipsarena.com.
Jingle Ball, Philips Arena
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Fox Theatre The world-renowned dance company returns to Atlanta with stunning performances including Ailey’s classic “Revelations.” Feb. 14-18, 855-285-8499, foxtheatre.org.
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Experience the hit songs of today performed in classic styles of yesteryear including swing, 50s rock and roll, doo-wop and more. Feb. 14, 800-
Madrigal Singers, Highpoint Episcopal Community Church Capitol City Opera presents an evening of traditional a cappella Christmas and holiday carols and songs from the Renaissance and Baroque periods (plus a few contemporary surprises), all performed in authentic period costume.
745-3000, cobbenergycentre.com.
Dec. 17, ccityopera.org.
770-626-2464, infiniteenergycenter.com.
Christmas Canteen, Aurora Theatre
The Wonderful World of Disney on Ice, Infinite Energy Center
Chris Young, Infinite Energy Center The country music singer appears to promote his latest album, “Losing Sleep.” Feb. 15,
Now in its 22nd year, this spectacular seasonal variety show features festive musical numbers and side-splitting comedy for all ages. Through
Spend an evening with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Snow White, Dory, Nemo, Aladdin, Anna, Elsa, Olaf and more of your favorite characters! Feb. 22-25,
Dec. 23, 678-226-6222, auroratheatre.com.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Center for Puppetry Arts
770-626-2464, infiniteenergycenter.com.
Rebirth Brass Band, Ferst Center for the Arts
This annual family-friendly favorite brings Rudolph and his friends from the beloved animated holiday classic to life. Through Dec. 31, 404-
The Grammy Award-winning New Orleansbased ensemble performs a mix of jazz, soul and funk. Feb. 24, 404-894-9600, arts.gatech.edu.
873-3391, puppet.org.
Native Guard, Atlanta History Center The Alliance Theatre presents this adaptation of former U.S. poet laureate Natasha Trethewey’s Pulitzer Prize-winning collection of poetry.
Exhibits & Events Deck the Hall, Duluth Town Green
Jan. 13-Feb. 4, 404-733-4650, alliancetheatre.org.
Celebrate the holidays with live entertainment, crafts for kids, a Polar Express train ride, a snow playground, a tree lighting and a giant snow slide. 2 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2, duluthga.net.
Nufonia Must Fall, Ferst Center for the Arts
Demi Lovato, Logic, Zedd, Fifth Harmony, Nick Jonas, Camila Cabello, Liam Payne and more perform at this star-studded pop concert presented by radio station Power 96.1. Dec. 15, 800-745-3000, philipsarena.com.
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PHOTO: AJ Korkidakis
Theater & Concerts
PHOTO: Michael Anthony Photography
404-894-9600, arts.gatech.edu.
Bedford Dasher, The Bedford School Run or walk at this ninth annual 5K and encourage your children to participate in the
Frida and Diego: Passion, Politics, and Painting, High Museum of Art
Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design, High Museum of Art
The Great American Motorcycle Show, Cobb Galleria Centre
An exhibition of African design featuring diverse works by more than 120 artists, including sculpture, prints, fashion, furniture, film, apps, digital comics, and more. Through Jan. 7,
Georgia’s largest indoor bike show features more than 100,000 square feet of foreign and domestic motorcycles, custom bikes, cruisers, touring bikes, choppers, accessories and more.
404-733-4400, high.org.
Jan. 27-28, natcshows.com/cycle.html.
Join Santa and his elves and get a free professional photo taken with old Saint Nick. Free arts and crafts activities while supplies last. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 16, duluthga.net.
Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit, Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Valentine’s Day Week, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids
Celebrations in Light, Children’s Museum of Atlanta
This exhibit brings the hit PBS KIDS series to life as kids investigate everyday science questions through fun hands-on activities. Through
Celebrate this affectionate holiday by making a special craft for your valentine, lots of fun family activities all week long! Feb. 5-11,
Jan. 15, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
Martin Luther King Week, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids
North Atlanta Home Show, Infinite Energy Center
Learn about this important historical figure and create crafts celebrating his work. Jan. 15-
This massive home improvement event showcases hundreds of vendors and experts specializing in everything your home needs, inside and out. Feb. 9-11, atlantahomeshow.com.
200-meter Elf Run. The race starts and ends at The Bedford School in Fairburn. Proceeds benefit the school’s mission of maximizing the potential of children with learning disabilities. Dec. 9, thebedfordschool.org.
Cookies and Cocoa With Santa, Red Clay Music Foundry
This month-long event teaches children about different cultural holidays from around the world. Dance, sing and create make-and-take projects based on Los Posadas, Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Through December, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
New Year’s Eve Celebration, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids
21, 770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
Atlanta Boat Show, Georgia World Congress Center
Ring in the new year with arts and crafts projects, a magic show, and parades throughout the museum using hats and noisemakers your children will create themselves! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
See hundreds of new boats, marine gear and more, including a working replica of the Lotus Esprit submarine car from the James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Also, meet Minions Kevin and Bob and explore the kid zone. Jan.
Dec. 30, 770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
18-21, atlantaboatshow.com.
A Fire That No Water Could Put Out: Civil Rights Photography, High Museum of Art This important new exhibit features more than 40 vintage and contemporary photographs that detail the history and continuing legacy of the Civil Rights Movement. Through May 27, 404-733-5000, high.org.
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hiddenATLANTA
Southeastern A Railway Museum
tlanta and transportation have always been inextricably linked. Shortly after the arrival of the railroad, the city developed into a major transportation hub, a position it occupies that continues even today. The colorful history that railroads and transportation played in shaping both Atlanta and North Georgia is on display at the Southeastern Railway Museum in the northern Atlanta suburb of Duluth. The state has designated the museum, which has been documenting railroad history for more than 40 years, as “Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum.” The 35-acre museum, located next to an active By Todd DeFeo rail line, is home to more than 90 pieces of historic railroad equipment, buses and artifacts that bring to life the region’s transportation history. Among the rail cars on display is The Superb, a heavyweight private car built by the Pullman Co. that is said to be the second-oldest steel private car in existence. The car, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been a part of the museum’s collection since 1969. President Warren G. Harding used the Superb during his “Voyage of Understanding” trip, which began in Washington, D.C., on June 20, 1923, headed to the Alaska Territory and the west coast. Before finishing the trip, Harding fell ill and died in San Francisco on Aug. 2, 1923; the Superb carried the president’s coffin to Washington, D. C. for the state funeral and then to Marion, Ohio, for his burial. Many of the historic railroad cars and locomotives on display are open for guests to climb aboard and explore. Visitors can buy tickets to ride on a train made up of vintage cabooses. Also, they can opt to purchase a cab ride and join the engineer as he operates the train around the property. This past fall, the museum opened a new 21,000-square-foot Rail Transit Exhibit (RTE) building that will have four tracks on which to display rail cars, and a 48-foot-wide central area that will be used for exhibits and as an events space. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65 and older and $7 for children between the ages of two and 12 years old. The Southeastern Railway Museum is located at 3595 Buford Highway in Duluth. For more information, call 770-476-2013 or visit train-museum.org.
Exploring Atlanta’s Railroad History
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