Sandy Springs celebrates Easter with Artsapalooza

By LUKE GARDNER newsroom@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — People from across metro Atlanta gathered to celebrate the annual Sandy Springs Artsapalooza on Easter Sunday, April 9.

Despite rain leading to Saturday’s event being canceled, the weather on Sunday was warm and inviting. Hundreds of attendees came to marvel at the art and take part in Easter festivities.

Kids participated in an egg hunt and got face paintings as the Easter Bunny greeted attendees.

“We came with my sister-in-law’s kids for the egg hunt,” said Mariden Lord, who has lived in Atlanta for 15 years. “It’s our first time and it’s very fun.”

Several other patrons also came out for the first time, with many citing the local art as their reason for attending. Artists from across north Georgia and some from even further set up tents along a roped-off street in the center of Sandy Springs.

Vendors sold hammocks, fresh juices, scones, jewelry, pottery, crystals, baskets, and various types of ar

Through her company Modern Maximalist, Melissa Kennedy sells unique art pieces made out of foodsafe resin, flowers and fruit. The shiny pieces can be used as cutting boards, plates, storage, coasters or decor.

“It’s my second time here and it’s a lot of fun,” Kennedy said. “The

Fulton County school officials weigh pay hike

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Fulton County School Board is considering a budget plan that could give school employees a 7.1 percent salary increase for the 2023-2024 school year to push competitive educator salaries in Metro Atlanta. The board discussed the recommended budget at an April 13 work session at the Fulton North Learning Center in Sandy Springs.

Approximately 84 percent of the general fund budget expenditures are salary and benefits, rounding out at a proposed $1.11 billion price tag for 2024. The cost comes from a host of recommended salary increases from school district officials.

people are really nice.”

Several artists sold paintings, with each artist representing a different style of artwork.

Painter Katie Carr sat beside colorful abstract paintings at her tent KKCAbstracts.

“I started painting to relieve stress,” Carr said. “It keeps me sane. Everyone needs a creative outlet, and I’m very blessed that I have this one. I love when the little kids want to touch the art and start talking to their parents about abstract pieces.”

One of Carr’s favorite things about painting is that her artwork can help bring peace to others.

Artist Zoe Fanol with Here & Now Crystal Gardens feels similarly about art’s ability to bring positivity to others. Fanol makes miniature sculpture-like pieces that she 3D prints and adorns with artificial greenery and real crystals.

See EASTER, Page 7

“This budget will include competitive wages,” Fulton County Schools Chief Financial Officer Marvin Dereef said. “We are in a very competitive market right now, labor is tight as mentioned earlier, so this budget addresses that.”

Dereef presented a plan that would increase all employee salary schedules by 5.1 percent. The raise includes a $2,000 pay raise proposed by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. The raise would cost the school district $42.5 million.

The school district staff also presented a one-time two percent pay

See SCHOOLS, Page 9

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