Issuu

inFOCUS

news bites from around at L anta

Celebrating

Suwanee

Suwanee has come a long way since 1970, when the small agricultural-based town numbered some 615 residents. Now a bustling city of more than 16,000, this thriving Gwinnett County community celebrates its growth each year with the popular Suwanee Day festival. Join the free party on Saturday, Sept. 15 at Town Center Park for a day of arts and crafts exhibitors, children’s activities, food vendors, a 5K race, live music, fireworks and more. 770-945-8996, www.suwaneeday.com.

Good vs. Medieval

The times, they are a-changin’. Medieval Times, the popular “dinner and a tournament” destination, is unveiling a brand-new show at its Atlanta Castle on July 19. Nearly two years in the making, the live production promises all the things visitors love about the attraction: jousting, sword fights, horsemanship, falconry and a pulsepounding storyline set in the Middle Ages with a sweeping, cinematic score. Even the utensil-free meal has received an upgrade! For tickets, call 888-935-6878 or visit www.medievaltimes.com/atlanta.

Now in its tenth year, the Morris Museum of Art’s Southern Soul & Song concert series returns to Augusta this September with a roster of music legends and rising stars reflecting the museum’s mission to showcase the art and artists of the American South. This year’s performers include Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder (Sept. 14), the Steep Canyon Rangers (above, Nov. 16) and Suzy Bogguss (Dec. 14). The series takes place at the historic Imperial Theatre through February 2013. For more information, visit www.southernsoulandsong.org.

What a Ride

Based on the book by Michael Morpurgo, the national touring production of the 2011 Tony Award-winning War Horse gallops into the Fabulous Fox Theatre on the heels of last year’s critically acclaimed Steven Spielberg film. The play follows Albert, an English lad who enlists in the military during World War I in search of his beloved horse, Joey. The play runs Sept. 25-30. For tickets and other information, call 800-278-4447 or visit www.broadwayinatlanta.com.

PHOTO: Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

PHOTO: Courtesy of the Steep Canyon Rangers

PHOTO: Matt Hackney

songs of the south

inFOCUS

expanding educational opportunities

In the spirit of giving back to the community, georgia’s Own Credit Union (www.georgiasown.org) awarded scholarships of $1,750 to Miles Martin and Mendez Dion Elder, Jr., participants in the L.E.A.D. Ambassadors program, at Turner Field in June. In other education news, brandon Hall School (www.brandonhall.org) recently announced a partnership with Shanghai World Foreign Language Middle School (below) that will allow students to achieve a dual diploma in both China and the U.S. Congratulations to all!

Turn up the volume

After a six-year absence, Music Midtown, Atlanta’s premier music festival, returned in 2011 as a starstudded one-day event. The response was so overwhelming that this year’s festival has expanded to two days, with a lineup of heavy hitters that includes Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters (pictured), Florence + the Machine, the avett brothers, t.i., ludacris, garbage and adam ant, among others. Sept. 21 and 22 at the Meadow at Piedmont Park. www.musicmidtown.com.

PHOTO: Steve Gullick

PHOTO: Courtesy of Brandon Hall School

Summer Steals

and Deals!

Exploring Atlanta on a Budget

by Dawn Sloan Downes

You’re getting settled into your new home, school doesn’t start for a couple of weeks, and the kids are tired of opening boxes. In other words, it’s the perfect time to start exploring Atlanta. You’re probably still having a hard time laying your hands on that box of wedding photos, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the city’s best activities and attractions. And since your wallet is likely feeling the effects of the big move, we’ve concentrated on inexpensive options the whole family can enjoy, broken down by price point to help you stay within your budget as you see the sights.

Fun for Free

Centennial Olympic Park

Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta’s tourist district, this historic spot is a great place to meet friends, people-watch, picnic, and let the kids splash in the Fountain of Rings. Synchronized water shows featuring a variety of family-friendly tunes are held daily at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. www.centennialpark.com.

The Park at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport

This hidden gem of a park combines two of childhood’s passions: watching planes take off and land while happily running about a playground that features swings, a climbing tower and slide, monkey bars, and cute airplane bouncers. A covered picnic pavilion provides a shady spot for lunch and a viewing stand provides kids and parents a great view of the runway. The airport also features two restaurants—the Downwind Restaurant and the aviation-themed 57th Fighter Group—with kid-friendly menus. www.pdkairport.org.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Enjoy Mother Nature while learning about this battlefield, home to some of the fiercest fighting of the Atlanta Campaign, one of the key battles of the Civil War. Take a self-guided cell phone tour of the battlefield and see cannon emplacements and other relics of the battle that raged from June 19 to July 2, 1864. The park also offers hiking on 18 miles of trails, as well as ample opportunities for bird and wildlife watching and photography. A museum also houses relics of the war and offers the opportunity to learn more about this key physical barrier that stood between the Federal army and its destruction of Atlanta. www.nps.gov/kemo.

$10 and Under Cochran Mill Nature Center

Fifty heavily wooded acres of adventure await just 20 minutes south of Atlanta. For $3 per adult and $2 for children 3-12, families can hike and explore along forest trails, catching glimpses of birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A trip around the pond or into the bog garden will offer fish, turtle and frog sightings, as well as a chance to see carnivorous plants up close. The center is also a rehabilitation facility for wounded wildlife and features a Birds of Prey center where visitors can observe hawks, owls and vultures. The center’s reptile exhibit is one of the largest in Georgia. www.cochranmillnaturecenter.org.

Piedmont Park Aquatic Center

Keep cool on the cheap and enjoy a day of fun and giggles. The newly renovated swimming pool and aquatic center at Piedmont Park features a beach entry pool with a current channel for floating, spray fountains, lap lanes for serious swimmers, plus a concession stand. Admission is $4 for adults 17 and up, $2 for children 6 to 16, $1 for children under 6, and $2 for senior citizens 55 and up. www.piedmontpark.org.

Stone Mountain Park

Bring your kids and their friends for a day of hiking and exploring on wooded trails. Identify local species in the songbird habitat, fish in Stone Mountain Lake, explore the Sky Hike and Geyser Towers adventure courses, bicycle around Robert E. Lee Drive, and end the day by taking in the Lasershow Spectacular. Admission is $10 per vehicle; note that additional attractions and events may cost extra. www.stonemountainpark.com.

The Sky Hike at Stone Mountain Park.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden.

The Center for Puppetry Arts.

The Fountain of Rings at Centennial Olympic Park.

$20 and Under

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Let your little ones’ imaginations run wild as they learn how the world around them works, learn where our food comes from, go exploring in the Big Adventure exhibit, dance and play with the Imaginators, and have such a great time they never even realize they’re having an educational experience. Admission is $12.75 per person over 2 years. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Center for Puppetry Arts

Introduce your children to the magical art of

puppetry! Enjoy engaging performances that delight both children and adults, and visit the Center’s puppetry museum to view its permanent collection, which holds more than 1,000 puppets, as well as special exhibits celebrating a variety of puppetry styles, puppets from other cultures, and even Jim Henson and the Muppets. A guided tour combo including a performance, create-a-puppet workshop, museum admission and tour, is $18. 50. www.puppet.org.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Explore elegant formal gardens, learn about native plant species, discover surprising art installations, frolic in the children’s garden and explore exotic flora from around the world at the Fuqua Orchid Center. Before you leave, take a break for lunch in the Sun in My Belly Cafe. Admission is $18.95 for adults 13 and up, $12.95 for children 3-12, and free to kids 2 and under. www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

PHOTO: Cobb Convention & Visitors Bureau

HOMES AND COMMUNITIES

Hall County

An Oasis of Recreation, Education and Business

by Sheena Louise Roetman

Hall County has experienced tremendous growth over the last 12 years, gaining more than 40,000 residents between 2000 and 2010. And it’s not hard to see why. Just an hour’s drive or less from Atlanta, Hall County boasts a wealth of natural attractions, a top-notch health care system and a thriving business community.

Unwind at one of Chateau Elan’s three beautiful public golf courses.

Hall County is home to 70 parks, more than any other county in the United States, and boasts many recreational programs for kids and adults.

COMMUNITY LIVING

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 was $175,200 between 2006 and 2010. And a CBS Moneywatch study released last year ranked the GainesvilleHall County area second among metro areas with the highest rates of home value appreciation, at 8.4 percent.

Another reason for the area’s popularity is its appealing mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. That’s especially true in Gainesville, the county seat since 1821. Its 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; the hospital was also named one of the top 100 in the country by Thomson Reuters in 2009.

In 2011, Gainesville was named one of the top 10 affordable places to retire by AARP Magazine, which made note of its inexpensive housing (average price: $141,800), 7 percent sales tax, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and other natural 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 chewing-gum company Wrigley maintains a plant here, and the Atlanta Falcons’ headquarters and training camp are based in the city as well.

Oakwood, home of Gainesville State College, 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.

PARKS AND RECREATION

Lake Sidney Lanier, more commonly known as Lake Lanier, is one of Hall County’s biggest

Brenau University.

draws. Created when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River in 1956, this 37,000-acre reservoir attracts more than 7.5 million people every year for boating, horseback riding, camping, hiking, zip-line courses and other recreational activities.

Many visitors head to the Lake Lanier Islands Resort, a 1,500-acre destination that offers golf, a spa and Lanier World, filled with restaurants, rides, a beach and a waterpark. Lake Lanier also hosts two of the largest freshwater marinas in the world: Holiday Marina in Buford and Aqualand Marina in Flowery Branch. Another attraction is Chateau Élan, a nationally known winery and resort that includes a spa, golf course, restaurants and homes.

The county is home to 70 parks, more than any other county in the United States, and boasts many recreational programs for kids and adults. The Francis Meadows Aquatic Center includes both indoor and outdoor pools, a children’s spray area and splash pool, water slides and an indoor competitive pool. Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve is a 2,500-acre park with hiking,

horseback riding and biking trails, a wildlife garden, science center and other activities. And the Chattahoochee National Forest and Tallulah Gorge State Park are both within an hour’s drive.

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 six independent schools, most notably Riverside

Military Academy, one of the only allboys private military college preparatory schools left in the country.

The county is also home to Gainesville State College, Brenau University and Lanier Technical College. And it’s only an hour west of the University of Georgia in Athens, as well as the many colleges and universities in metro Atlanta, including Georgia State University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University and Agnes Scott College.

And all of those schools help attract many businesses looking for a well-educated workforce.

Asked to summarize the state of the economy in Hall County, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kit Dunlap says, “It’s doing very well,” driven by a strong manufacturing presence, with more than 300 companies turning out everything from textiles to automobiles to consumer goods. More than 45 Fortune 500 companies have a presence in the area as well.

In 2010-2011, more than 1,400 new jobs were created in the county, which enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state.

continued on page 18

PHOTO: Gainesville Tourism and Trade

This thriving business community enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in Georgia.

Dunlap points to several reasons for the county’s 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 attuned to the needs of the businesses it already has.

And residents looking to spend some of the money they make in Hall County aren’t lacking for shopping options: Gainesville’s Lakeshore Mall and the 225-store Mall of Georgia in Buford abound with choices. Nearby, the Tanger Outlets in Commerce and North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall in Dawsonville also offer a wealth of selection.

Combining a peaceful quality of life with a 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. Truly, there’s something for everyone.

ESSENTIAL INFO

Hall County Government www.hallcounty.org

Hall County Schools www.hallco.org

Hall County Parks and Leisure www.hallcounty.org/parks

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce www.ghcc.com

City of Gainesville www.gainesville.org

Gainesville City Schools www.gcssk12.net

Gainesville State College www.gsc.edu

Brenau University www.brenau.edu

Lanier Technical College www.laniertech.edu

City of Flowery Branch www.ﬂowerybranchga.org

Lake Lanier Islands Resort www.lakelanierislands.com

Northeast Georgia Health System www.nghs.com

Riverside Military Academy www.riversidemilitaryacademy.com

PHOTO: Courtesy of Mall of Georgia

With 225 stores, there’s something for everyone at the Mall of Georgia.

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SpOtlight neighborhood

Gainesville

by Muriel Vega

Th E I Ns I d E TrAC k

Gainesville is known as the “chicken capital of the world” for its thriving poultry industry. It is illegal to eat fried chicken with a fork inside city limits.

estled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gainesville continues to attract new residents and businesses with affordable housing, plentiful recreation and proximity to Lake Lanier. Last year, Gainesville was named a top 10 affordable city for retirement by AARP Magazine and a top 15 “most fun and affordable” city by Bloomberg Businessweek.

Housing

Whether you’re looking to retire or start a new family, Gainesville offers a variety of housing options. Less than a year old, latham Creek Manor offers homes starting in the $130s—with some of the ranch-style homes offering between 1- and 2-acre lots. With Brenau University and Gainesville State College nearby, rental options are plentiful. The lenox Park apartments (770287-1972) are close to all of the city schools and boast a clubhouse complete with a pool and charcoal grills. Another option is Park Creek apartments (770-287-1414), a gated community near public transit.

local Treasures

Browse the dozens of shops and restaurants in charming, historic Downtown gainesville, tee up at the public Chattahoochee golf Club (770-532-0066), or walk the rock Creek greenway, a 2-mile trail connecting downtown to Lake Lanier. The area’s natural attractions, including Lake Lanier and the blue ridge Mountains, draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round: Camp overnight and stretch out on a 40,000 square-foot beach looking out on the lake at river Forks Park (770-531-3952) or venture to lake lanier islands resort (770-945-8787) in nearby Buford for waterskiing, horseback riding and a water park, among other activities.

Culinary Treats

recess Southern gastro Pub (678-450-0444) is a popular choice for dinner with an expansive menu. atlas Pizza (770-531-1144) is a local favorite for pies, wings and sandwiches—make sure to try the White Pizza. Grab one of the delicious po’ boys at the atlanta Seafood Market (770-287-8277) and take home some fresh seafood. Scott’s on the Square (770-536-1111) and luna’s restaurant and Piano lounge (770-531-0848) offer fine dining in casual, comfortable settings.

arts and entertainment

the Quinlan Visual arts Center (770-5362575) exhibits local artists and offers art classes. The brenau University galleries (www.brenau.edu) showcase works by students as well as national and international artists. The georgia Mountains Center (770-534-8420) hosts concerts and other events. The downtown square hosts events like the art in the Square festival (Sept. 15-16). interactive neighborhood for Kids (770-536-1900) is a hands-on children’s museum where children can role-play and climb aboard a real 1927 fire truck. The beulah rucker Museum and education Center (404-4016589) highlights the efforts of Beulah Rucker Oliver to provide educational opportunities to the African-American youth of North Georgia. n

lake lanier islands Resort

Park Creek apartments

atlas Pizza

Chattahoochee Golf Course

PHOTO: Gainesville Tourism and Trade

PHOTO: Lake Lanier Islands Resort

PHOTO: Gainesville Tourism and Trade

Giving Your Child a

The Importance of Early Education HEAD START

by Daniel Beauregard

In decades past, it was common to leave a child at a day care or preschool and expect little more than that the staff keep him or her occupied while the parents were at work. But as educators learn more about what and how children learn in their first few years, early education has come to mean much more than simply dropping a child at a day care doorstep.

Many experts consider the early years, from birth to age 4, to be the most important developmental phase of a child’s life. As a result, it’s vital that children begin their education as quickly as possible. Many early education facilities have standards to maintain, including a curriculum that grows more rigorous each year.

“We’re trying to help parents move away from this idea of day care and child care,” says Dr. Laura Johns, director of quality initiatives for Bright from the Start, the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. “Every time you put your infant in an early care education program, it’s to stimulate their whole growth, and parents need to understand that the brain is developing at a rapid rate. In fact, we learn more between those ages than any other time in our lives.”

“I always say that we are only as strong as our infant care program, and the reason for that is that’s where it all happens,” says Landy Gonzales, executive director of The Goddard School on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta. “That’s when we’re looking to make sure all the lights are on and the baby is growing according to plan.”

Education and early childhood experts say parents should start looking for an early care center as soon as they’re expecting, so they can get on the waiting list of a high-quality program. Many early care centers take children as young as six weeks, which is usually when parents are returning to work after maternity leave.

Stages of Development

We learn more between birth to age four than any other time in our lives.

There are four stages of development children go through that both parents and educators should watch for. The curriculum of any quality early care or pre-K program should feature learning activities that correspond to these developmental stages.

Cognitive: Teachers read to children, sounding out the words and showing them objects to illustrate their meaning. For toddlers, teachers may engage in hands-on problem-solving activities, such as putting blocks through a cube sorter, asking open-ended questions or coaxing them along the way, which improves literacy and problem-solving skills.

Social: Facilitating a child’s social learning can be as simple as looking into his or her eyes and mirroring the emotions they’re experiencing. The teacher can engage directly with the child, eliciting a back-and-forth interaction between the child’s gestures and the teacher’s responses. With toddlers, this form of interaction may look different. At that age, the social domain of learning focuses more on teaching them how to get along with preschoolers and to take turns and positively engage with each other.

Emotional: Teachers give positive feedback to young children or toddlers and teach them words that validate their emotions: If a child or toddler is crying, teachers can help them

understand the words—such as sadness or loneliness—behind their feelings.

Physical: To encourage healthy living from an early age, teachers engage with their students in activities that hone fine motor skills and teach them how to use their fingers to develop writing skills. Toddlers engage in activities such as running outside, jumping and throwing balls to further develop motor skills.

Accreditation

Although each program is different, many agencies, such as Georgia’s Bright from the Start or the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), support programs

Mill Springs Academy Success in School … Success in Life

Mill Springs Academy, located on an 85-acre campus in the hills of Alpharetta, is an accredited college-preparatory school dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of students who have not realized their full potential.

Mill Springs helps students of average to superior ability in grades 1-12 reach their potential by raising expectations, facilitating self-motivation, and providing the skills and instilling the values they need to succeed in life. Students in grades 4 through 12 are equipped with laptops to help them navigate today’s digital landscape. Small classes and an individualized curriculum enable them to capitalize on their strengths while learning compensatory strategies.

Mill Springs offers a range of college-preparatory and fine arts options, as well as college and fine arts placement support. The school boasts a competitive sports program and an extended-day recreational program. Mill Springs Academy participates in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program.

For more information, contact Mill Springs Academy at 770-360-1336 or visit www.millsprings.org.

with a rigorous curriculum and a list of definitive yardsticks, including ratings systems to make sure each program is highly maintained.

“We really put a huge effort on helping family child-care programs and center-based programs understand the components of quality education,” Johns says. “Each one should have intentional teaching practices, lesson planning and learning objectives for all age groups, infancy through preschool.”

Early care and pre-K facilities follow minimum state requirements, but both NAEYC and Bright from the Start take those one step further, ensuring parents get the best early education possible for their child, and remain well-informed along the way.

Bright from the Start oversees the licensing and inspection of approximately 6,000 child care centers throughout the state. This year it unveiled Quality Rated, a volunteer certification program open to any licensed child care center. Quality ratings are awarded to those schools that go beyond Georgia’s minimum licensing requirements.

Centers that receive Quality Rated certification or NAEYC’s accreditation adhere to such standards as a lower teacher-to-student ratio, higher credentials and qualifications for teachers, engaging parents in support and offering regular assessments, and supporting health, safety and physical activity.

But those aren’t the only rigorous accreditation programs available. The Primrose Schools, with child care education centers open or in development in 21 states, are accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement or, here in the South, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI), which also accredit public schools, independent schools and colleges.

Some centers, like The Goddard School, have their own quality assurance programs to ensure accountability. At each of Goddard’s locations, for example, the executive director is required to remain on-site.

“I review curriculum and work with my teachers in the classroom every single day, which really makes a big school seem so much smaller,” Gonzales says.

Enrolling a child in a safe, accredited facility as soon as possible is one of the most important things a parent can do to help that child develop fully, laying the foundation for a successful education.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FACILITY

If you’ve got a child on the way or have just moved to the area, here are some things to keep in mind as you look for an early care center.

Talk with the teachers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Does the center employ qualiﬁed staff? Does it communicate regularly with the family about the child’s progress? Does the curriculum foster all areas of a child’s development?

Treat each visit like a job interview. Ask for references and speak with other parents whose children are enrolled. Remember, the center should be doing its best to court you, not the other way around.

Observe what goes on in the classroom. Speak with the teachers and children about what they do each day. Is the center a safe and healthy environment?

Show up unannounced. You should continue to do this throughout the early stages of your child’s education to make sure the center is up to your standards.

Heiskell

S Atlanta International School Preparing Students for a Global World

by Cady Schulman

ince first opening its doors in 1985, the Atlanta International School has dedicated itself to providing an international approach to education similar to those found in other major cities throughout the world. With Atlanta continuing to welcome residents from other countries, and the ability to speak multiple languages growing in importance, the school’s focus on preparing children for life in a global world has never been timelier.

“A city, state, or region can’t exist in isolation,” says Headmaster Kevin Glass. “Ultimately, we’re competing in a global society. In order to be successful, it takes a special sort of mindset.” For a worldwide transportation hub such as Atlanta, he says, “to not have an international school that gets that and supports it … would be a disaster.” Half of the school’s student, teacher and parent population is international, he says, representing 95 nationalities.

The school offers instruction in three languages—French, German and Spanish—and students begin a dual-language program with their chosen language in primary school. Sixth- and seventh-graders are required to take Latin or Chinese courses, as well. By middle school, language and literature studies courses are conducted in the students’ second languages.

And with the opening of the school’s Early Learning Center, scheduled for August, 3- and 4- year-old students will begin the process of becoming immersed in a second language. This full-immersion method enables students to begin thinking in two languages at an early age. Research shows that learning and cognitive development are increased when students are exposed to a language-rich environment as early as possible.

“When you’re trying to problem solve or pick up a really difficult concept, our kids are able to use two completely different parts of their brain,

and do this in two different languages subconsciously inside their heads,” says Glass. “Their chances of solving that problem or thinking about a subject more deeply are enhanced.”

Language isn’t the only focus at Atlanta International School. The institution is one of a handful of schools in the world to offer the International Baccalaureate program, which encourages the development of critical-thinking skills and an international perspective, to all its students. Glass describes the school’s approach as “thinking outside of the box from the youngest of ages and doing it in different languages.”

Atlanta International School also focuses on the arts, with programs in theater, visual arts and music. The secondary school boasts an Art, Science and Design Center, and the school seeks to concentrate higher-order braindevelopment thinking skills around innovation, science and engineering.

In its 26 years, Atlanta International School has grown from 51 students to 1,020. The school is now close to capacity, though Glass says it could likely hold 30-40 additional students in the next couple of years.

“Ultimately, the school has pretty much grown exponentially, reflecting Atlanta’s growth,” he says. “As Atlanta has grown and developed into a global hub, our school has grown and developed. I think the demand is only going to increase as people become increasingly aware of what it’s going to take to be competitive in a global society.” n

The SPecificS

Grades: 3K-12

Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1

Tuition: $19,080-$21,780

Location: Buckhead

Contact: 2890 N. Fulton Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-841-3840 Web: www.aischool.org

PHOTOS: Billy Howard

SHOW STOPPERS

Exploring Atlanta’s Arts & Entertainment Scene

By Kevin Forest Moreau

As befits the crown jewel of the Southeast, Atlanta is a thriving hub of art, entertainment and culture. Whether you’re in the mood for a toe-tapping musical, a soul-stirring theatrical production or an enjoyable museum outing, the metro area is filled with options. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest players on Atlanta’s cultural landscape.

“War Horse,” a Broadway in Atlanta production, is one of the many acclaimed national touring shows hosted by the Fox Theatre.

PHOTO:

© Brinkhoff/Mögenburg 2011 London Cast

SEE A SHOW COBB ENERGY PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

This Northeast Atlanta facility, opened in 2007, boasts a 2,750-seat theater that serves as home to both the Atlanta Ballet and the Atlanta Opera. It also hosts touring shows like Young Frankenstein and presents concerts and comedy shows as well. www.cobbenergycentre.com.

FERST CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Film Festival screens classic movies and recent blockbusters. www.foxtheatre.org.

RIALTO CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Located on the Georgia Tech campus, this 1,159-seat space has been presenting theater, dance and comedy performances for 20 years. Upcoming shows include Indecision 2012: The Daily Show Live! (Sept. 28) and jazz pianist Keiko Matsui (Oct. 5). www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu.

FOX THEATRE

Constructed in the late 1920s, this 4,678-seat auditorium, with an interior resembling an Arabian courtyard looking up at a star-filled sky, hosts popular touring productions such as Jersey Boys and Peter Pan (courtesy of Broadway in Atlanta and Theater of the Stars, respectively), as well as concerts, dance performances and plays. Each summer, the Coca-Cola Summer

Georgia State University’s 833-seat venue in downtown Atlanta is known for showcasing leading national and international jazz and world music artists. The Center’s annual Rialto Series also presents dance and comedy shows as well as performances by the Georgia State School of Music. www.rialtocenter.org.

SPIVEY HALL

Since 1991, this intimate, 400-seat space on the Clayton State University campus has established itself as one of the area’s leading venues for jazz and classical music. Spivey Hall is especially renowned for its acoustics, and has been hailed as one of the best performance venues in the nation. www.spiveyhall.org.

TAKE IN A PLAY ALLIANCE THEATRE

This Tony Award-winning institution is known for staging new and celebrated works. It also enjoys a reputation for launching Broadway shows and touring productions including The Color Purple and Sister Act. Earlier this year, it staged the world premiere of the musical Ghost Brothers of Darkland County, a collaboration between Stephen King, John Mellencamp and Grammy Award-winning producer T-Bone Burnett. www.alliancetheatre.org.

ATLANTA SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

Based in the New American Shakespeare Tavern in Midtown Atlanta, this troupe distinguishes itself with its quest for authenticity, presenting each play with an eye toward the creator’s original intent. Actors wear handmade period costumes, and all sound effects and music are created live, on period instruments. www.shakespearetavern.com.

GEORGIA SHAKESPEARE

From its home in the Conant Performing Arts Center on the campus of Oglethorpe University, this 27-year-old company presents a mix-

TOP: Spivey Hall, renowned for its acoustics, is one of Atlanta’s leading jazz and classical music venues. CENTER: The Rialto Center for the Arts.

TOP: The Atlanta Ballet’s “Nutcracker” is a holiday tradition. BOTTOM: (Left) Theatrical Outfit’s “A Wrinkle in Time”; (Right) The Atlanta Opera’s “La Boheme.”

ture of favorite and lesser-known works by the Bard in addition to thought-provoking plays by other artists. The company’s “Shakespeare in the Park” production, newly relocated to the Legacy Fountain in Piedmont Park, is a highlight of the season. www.gashakespeare.org.

THEATRICAL OUTFIT

Founded in 1976, Theatrical Outfit produces classic and contemporary works that stimulate discussion and often address themes and ideas relevant to life in the American South. Recent works include C.S. Lewis On Stage, A Wrinkle in Time, Red and Freud’s Last Session. The company’s home, the Balzer Theater at Herren’s, is also the site of Herren’s, the first Atlanta restaurant to desegregate during the civil rights movement. www.theatricaloutfit.org.

EXPLORE THE PERFORMING ARTS

ATLANTA BALLET

The nation’s oldest professional dance company, the Atlanta Ballet strives to stage exciting, boundary-pushing works. The company’s 83rd season kicks off later this year with its signature performance, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, a holiday tradition. Other highlights include Dracula, Carmina Burana and Love Stories, which explores the concept of love through inventive choreography. www.atlantaballet.com.

ATLANTA OPERA

For more than 30 years, this renowned company has drawn audiences from across the Southeast with memorable performances and some of the finest singers, conductors and designers in the nation and the world. Its 2012-2013 season

includes Carmen, La Traviata and The Italian Girl in Algiers. www.atlantaopera.org.

ATLANTA SYMPHONY

The Atlanta Symphony is hailed as one of America’s leading orchestras, known for its impresssive performances and Grammy Award-winning recordings. Led by music director Robert Spano, the ASO logs more than 200 concerts each year at Symphony Hall in the Woodruff Arts Center as well as other stages locally and across the globe.The symphony’s productions range from classic and contemporary works to concerts with pop and rock entertainers. Upcoming highlights include the music of ABBA (Aug. 4) and the kickoff of the symphony’s 68th season with acclaimed violinist Midori (Oct. 4-7). www.atlantasymphony.org.

PHOTOS:

(Top) Charlie McCullers, Courtesy Atlanta Ballet, (Bottom Left) Josh Lamkin and (Bottom Right)

Tim Wilkerson

DISCOVER NEW WORLDS ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER

Located on a sprawling 33-acre complex in Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center aims to preserve the city’s rich past. Attractions include the elegant Swan House mansion, the Smith Family Farm, museums devoted to Atlanta history and the 1996 Olympics, and six lush gardens. The Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown, where the author wrote Gone With the Wind, is also part of the History Center. www.atlantahistorycenter.com.

BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM

The second-largest art museum in the state, this Cartersville attraction houses the nation’s largest permanent exhibition space for Western art. Guests can explore historic and contemporary works as well as artwork from the Civil War, Western movie posters, presidential portraits and much more. www.boothmuseum.org.

GONE WITH THE WIND MUSEUM

This fascinating museum on the historic Marietta Square is dedicated to both the world-famous novel and its classic movie adaptation. Highlights include several of Margaret Mitchell’s personal volumes of the book, as well

continuted on page 32

FURTHER OUT

These four arts attractions outside the metro Atlanta are worth the drive.

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Statesboro’s cultural heart includes a theater and an exhibit area, and hosts youth programs and special events throughout the year. www.averittcenterforthearts.org.

FOXFIRE MUSEUM & HERITAGE CENTER

This Mountain City museum preserves and documents the different aspects of southern Appalachian culture. www.foxﬁre.org.

MORRIS MUSEUM OF ART

This impressive Augusta museum is dedicated to the art and artists of the American South. www.themorris.org.

THE TELFAIR MUSEUMS

The three museums that make up this Savannah institution display works from the 17th century through the present. www.telfair.org.

The Atlanta History Center explores the city’s rich past.

as movie posters, programs, conceptual art and other movie memorabilia, including the original honeymoon gown worn by Vivien Leigh. www.gwtwmarietta.com.

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART

Part of the Woodruff Arts Center, which also includes the Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High has long enjoyed a reputation as the Southeast’s leading art museum. Current exhibits include Picturing New York/Picturing the South and Rising Up: Hale Woodruff’s Murals from Talladega College. www.high.org.

MICHAEL C. CARLOS MUSEUM

This museum on the Emory University campus houses the largest collection of ancient art in the Southeast, with objects from ancient Egypt, Nubia, Rome, Greece, Africa, Asia, the ancient Americas and other places, as well as works on paper from the Renaissance to today. The Carlos is also devoted to lectures, workshops, festivals and other educational programming. www.carlos.emory.edu.

BRING THE FAMILY CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS

For more than 30 years, this Midtown attraction has delighted kids of all ages with puppet workshops, puppet shows for different age groups, and a museum dedicated to this ancient and enduring art form—including special exhibits on the work of Jim Henson. www.puppet.org.

FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Established in 1992, the Fernbank Museum provides an entertaining and educational look at natural history. Permanent exhibits include A Walk Through Time in Georgia and Giants of the Mesozoic, which spotlights some of the world’s largest dinosaurs. There’s also an IMAX theatre, with an ever-changing lineup of fascinating documentary films. Weekly Martinis & IMAX events offer live music, food and cocktails in this one-of-a-kind setting. www.fernbankmuseum.org.

FERNBANK SCIENCE CENTER

Not affiliated with the Fernbank Museum, the Science Center is a part of the DeKalb County school system. Highlights include the 65-acre Fernbank Forest, a rose garden, a planetarium and observatory, a large solar panel, a library, a meteorology and seismology lab, an aerospace education lab and a two-story exhibit hall filled with educational displays. www.fernbank.edu.

PHOTO: Kathryn Kolb/Courtesy of Center for Puppetry Arts

IMAGINE IT!

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

This downtown museum encourages creativity and learning with interactive attractions that allow toddlers and young children to explore a fun crawl space, play in a magical forest, work on a farm and steer a crane, among other adventures. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

TELLUS SCIENCE MUSEUM

At this 120,000 square-foot museum, budding scientists can stare into the jaws of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, pan for gems and explore 100 years of transportation technology. The museum also features a 120-seat planetarium and an observatory. www.tellusmuseum.org.

HAVE A LAUGH DAD’S GARAGE

For almost 20 years, this theater company in the Inman Park neighborhood has staged original productions and improvisational comedy shows and workshops. www.dadsgarage.com.

LAUGHING SKULL LOUNGE

This small space, connected to the Vortex Bar and Grill on Peachtree Street in Midtown, enjoys

the distinction of being the smallest comedy club in the nation. The intimate space attracts nationally recognized stand-up comedians, including Margaret Cho, Emo Philips and Paul F. Tompkins. www.laughingskulllounge.com.

THE PUNCHLINE

Billed as Atlanta’s premier comedy club, this Sandy Springs mainstay has hosted such names as Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno and Larry the Cable Guy. Upcoming events include Colin Quinn (Aug. 3-4) and Kevin Nealon (Sept. 28-29). www.punchline.com.

VILLAGE THEATRE

A relative newcomer to Atlanta’s comedy scene, the Village Theatre has quickly become a favorite destination for improv and stand-up comedy since 2008. It also offers comedy workshops from its new performance space near downtown. www.villagecomedy.com.

WHOLE WORLD IMPROV THEATRE

This award-winning Midtown institution is Atlanta’s best-known improv comedy troupe. Whole World offers classes and workshops for adults and children, including a summer improv camp. www.wholeworldtheatre.com.

INTERACTIVE ART

Just a half-hour north of Atlanta sits a one-of-a-kind public art project worth exploring. The 2012 Suwanee SculpTour is a walkable outdoor exhibit in and around downtown Suwanee, featuring 15 original sculptures made from steel, wood, bronze and aluminum and weighing in excess of a cumulative 4,600 pounds. This award-winning interactive exhibit allows viewers to vote for their favorite piece to be added to the city’s permanent collection. An audio tour is available via podcast on iTunes. For more information, visit www.suwanee.com.

Yesterday Today &

The Past Comes Alive in Charming Statesboro

By Muriel Vega

Located in South Georgia, approximately 45 miles from Savannah and three hours from Atlanta, Statesboro is an alluring mixture of young and old. The only city to bear its name in the United States, it’s a vibrant center of art and culture. Steeped in tradition with the energy of a college town, it offers a great, budget-friendly getaway brimming with history and a strong dose of Southern charm.

LEFT: The Averitt Center for the Arts. ABOVE: Downtown Statesboro exudes a Southern, small-town charm.

PHOTOS: Frank Fortune

Gateway to History

Statesboro’s historical ties run deep. Incorporated in 1803, it’s also home to Georgia Southern University, which was founded in 1906. More than 80 years ago, blues musician Blind Willie McTell sang “Statesboro Blues” on the steps of the Jaeckel Hotel; the song was later made famous by the Allman Brothers.

Today, the peaceful path that bears his name, the Blind Willie McTell Trail, offers a relaxing stroll through 7,415 square yards of manicured park lawns, picnic tables and original artwork created by university students. The trail runs from downtown’s Triangle Park to the university campus, allowing visitors to wander and enjoy the scenery without using city streets.

The aforementioned Jaeckel Hotel has its own stories to tell. Opened in 1905, it played host to such luminaries as Henry Ford and William Jennings Bryan. Today, the building serves as Statesboro’s City Hall. On the lawn in front, a historical marker commemorates Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman’s brief stop in Statesboro during his infamous “march to the sea.”

Visitors can look even further into the past at the Georgia Southern University Museum. The Hall of Natural History showcases a 78-million-year-old Mosasaur fossil skeleton, a 42-millionyear-old whale skeleton, a mastodon skull and other wonders. A second gallery rotates exhibits such as a look at the archaeology of a Civil War prison camp. 912-478-5444, www.georgiasouthern.edu/museum.

Arts and Attractions

Looking for relaxation and recreation? Mill Creek Regional Park is a beautiful, sprawling 155-acre hub of activity, with more than 300 hardwood trees and a bounty of baseball, softball, soccer and football fields, two playgrounds and a 1.25-mile walking trail. www.bullochrec.com. The park is also home to Splash in the Boro, an extensive water park with water slides, a “river” for tubing, pools, areas for boogie-boarding and mat racing, children’s activities and a “Winter Dome” that offers swimming lessons, lap swimming and more. 912-489-3000, www.splashintheboro.com.

Observe eagles, pythons, reptiles and many other species up close at the Georgia Southern University Wildlife Education Center. Stretching across more than five acres, the center boasts a number of animal habitats and exhibits, self-guided nature walks and an amphitheater, among other features, as well as a 12-acre wetlands preserve. 912-478-0831, www.georgiasouthern.edu/wildlife.

Nearby, the Georgia Southern Botanical Garden offers nearly 11 acres of natural beauty, including native plants, a children’s vegetable garden and walking trails. 912-871-1149, www.georgiasouthern.edu/garden.

For the performing arts, look no further than the Averitt Center for

the Arts, housed in two beautiful architectural landmarks—the former Bank of Statesboro, which closed its doors in 1932, and the onetime Georgia Theater, a movie house dating back to 1936. With three different galleries and juried exhibitions, the bustling center presents artist shows, touring productions of Broadway shows and other events throughout the year. 912-212-2787, www.averittcenterforthearts.org.

Downtown Main Street is home to local businesses and restaurants, as well as the Statesboro Farmers Market from April through November. Stop by Sugar Magnolia Bakery for some brunch on the weekends, including homemade biscuits and challah French toast. 912-764-2090, www.sugarmagnoliabakery.com. For dinner, the Beaver House Restaurant is a good choice and a local favorite. Located in an historic home attached to the distinctly Southern Beaver House Inn downtown, it serves a traditional Sunday dinner twice daily—and is reportedly haunted by friendly spirits. 912-764-2821, www.beaverhouseinn.com.

TOP: The Statesboro Farmers Market runs from April through November. BOTTOM: (Left) The Georgia Southern Botanical Gardens; (Right) Splash in the Boro offers family fun.

Where to Stay

Statesboro offers a variety of both historic bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly inns. Georgia’s Bed & Breakfast exudes the perfect blend of Southern Hospitality and elegance: Wake up in one of its four individually decorated guest rooms (all with private baths) to the delightful aromas of a complimentary home-cooked breakfast. 912-489-6330.

The Historic Statesboro Inn and Restaurant features two late 19thcentury homes, the Main Raines House and the Brannen House, both on the National Registry of Historic Places and modernized with free Wi-Fi and other conveniences. 912-489-8628, www.statesboroinn.com.

With or without its unique name, there’s no other city like Statesboro in all of Georgia … or anywhere else. Brimming with historical details while rooted firmly in the present, it offers so much to see, do and experience that you’ll never find yourself singing the blues.

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau 912-489-1869 www.visitstatesboroga.com

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport 912-964-0514 www.savannahairport.com

American Eagle, Delta, United Airlines and US Airways

Statesboro-Bulloch County Airport 912-764-9083

Private aircraft

Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome.

Atlanta’s majestic skyline.

Suwanee’s Town Center.

GETTING STARTED TO

HERE THERE GETTING STARTED

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.

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.

Car Tag

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 tax on vehicles. Your tag office will provide the amount of sales tax on your vehicle. For information on a specific county, contact the 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 state-designated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit www.cleanairforce.com.

Driving Tips

Georgia 400 is the only toll road in Atlanta. If you travel it daily, obtaining a Cruise Card is recommended. Purchased in advance, the Cruise Card allows drivers to bypass the tollbooth and avoid long lines. Call 404-893-6161 or visit www.georgiatolls.com to purchase a card.

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) 1-877694-2511, by dialing 511, or by visiting www.georgia-navigator.com.

MARTA

MARTA Rail Service

Relocating

to a New City

Moving is one of the most stressful events in a person’s life—but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you keep your sanity.

1 MAKE A LIST Do you need to find a mover?

Do you have everything you need to enroll your child in a new school? How will you transport the family pet?

2 DO YOUR HOMEWORK Learn which services (water, sanitation) are provided by the city. Research parks, restaurants, theaters and other ways to spend your downtime. Bookmark online resources on schools and neighborhoods.

3 GET THE LAY OF THE LAND Spend a weekend driving to and from work, familiarizing yourself with major roads, highways and landmarks. These tips were provided by the City of East Point. East Point’s Economic Development Department is available to provide useful information and answer your relocation questions. 404-270-7057, www.eastpointcity.org.

NEED TO KNOW GETTING STARTED

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.

All phone numbers in the metro Atlanta area include 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.

COUNTY INFORMATION

EDUCATION

public ScHOOlS

Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871

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

Avg. SAT Scores

Cherokee Co. 1560

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

Amicalola EMC 706-276-2362

Cobb EMC 770-429-2100

Georgia Power 888-660-5890

Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363

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

ETC Communications 678-454-1212

TDS Telecom-Nelson

Ball Ground 770-735-2000

Windstream 800-501-1754

WATER

Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813

City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123

City of Canton 770-704-1500

City of Waleska 770-479-2912

City of Woodstock 770-926-8852

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

Cherokee County

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,

QUICK INFO

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

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

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

Ridge Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is prime location for development.

Woodstock

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.

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

Cagle Dairy Farm, Canton Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

COUNTY INFORMATION

EDUCATION

public ScHOOlS Cobb

Avg. SAT Scores

Cobb Co. 1534 Marietta City 1514

1460

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

Acworth Power 770-974-5233

Cobb EMC 770-429-2100

Georgia Power 888-660-5890

GreyStone Power Corp. 770-942-6576

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

AT&T 888-436-8638

Comcast 404-266-2278

MCI Worldcom 770-541-7235

Outside Georgia 800-356-3094

WATER

Austell Water 770-944-4300

Cobb County Water Systems 770-423-1000

Marietta Water 770-794-5100

Powder Springs Water 770-943-8000

Smyrna Water 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

Cobb County

Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Welch Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the Battle at Kennesaw Mountain.

QUICK INFO

county www.cobbcountyga.gov

Neighborhoods Kennesaw

Neighborhoods www.austellga.org www.mariettaga.gov www.ci.smyrna.ga.us www.kennesaw-ga.gov www.cityofpowdersprings.org

Schools www.cobb.k12.ga.us www.marietta-city.org

Median household income: $65,123

Today, Cobb County, located north of Fulton County, is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. More than $770 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious “Platinum Triangle” in the Galleria area.

Median age of residents: 35

Population: 698,158

Sales tax: 6%

chamber of commerce Cobb County 770-980-2000, www.cobbchamber.org property Taxes

The property tax is $28.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000

One of Family Circle magazine’s “Ten Best Towns for Families,” Kennesaw takes pride in its small-town atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and green space, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Arboretum and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Smyrna

A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury

apartments and condos near Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest corner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $205,200.

Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The new Market Village, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

White Water

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

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.

Neighborhoods

Decatur

As the county seat, Decatur revolves around the Courthouse Square. In recent years, the square has undergone a renaissance as small storefront mo -

shed and Supper Club. The square also plays host to numerous festivals, town celebrations and neighborhood parties.

QUICK INFO

DeKalb County prospers in part due to its excellent transportation system. Five major road arteries traverse the county: Interstates 20, 85, 285, 675 and US Highway 78. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is only six miles from DeKalb’s southern border and the DeKalb Peachtree Airport, a general aviation field, is reported to be the second busiest airport in Georgia. DeKalb County is also a leader in the biomedical community with The Center for Disease Control headquartered there.

county www.co.dekalb.ga.us Neighborhoods www.decaturga.com www.druidhills.org www.dunwoodyga.org www.candlerpark.org www.stonemountaincity.org

Schools www.dekalb.k12.ga.us www.csdecatur.net

Median household income: $51,753

Median age of residents: 35

Population: 739,956 Sales tax: 7% chamber of commerce DeKalb County 404-378-8000, www.dekalbchamber.org

property Taxes

The property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for unincorporated DeKalb County. Tax Commissioner: 404-298-4000

The median value of homes in 2006, according to the Census Bureau, was $190,100.

Decatur is home to a diverse population, attracting young professionals, families and retirees. With Agnes Scott College, a prestigious women’s college, and just outside the city limits, Emory University, Decatur is a college town amidst a big city. Older brick homes, smaller bungalows and cottage homes distinguish the community and the surrounding neighborhoods of Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and Candler Park.

Dunwoody

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 hot-spot for families.

tifs have been preserved, attracting unique shopping, entertainment and dining that includes By Hand South, Square Roots, Eddie’s Attic, Water-

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

Emory University

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

COUNTY INFORMATION

EDUCATION

Fayette

770-460-3535

Fayette County

Neighborhoods Faye tte vi ll e

Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

Georgia Power Company 888-660-5890 Coweta-Fayette EMC 770-253-5626

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

AT&T Residential 888-757-6500

LocatedsouthwestofAtlanta, thelandcomprisingFayetteCounty wascededfromtheCreekIndian Nationin1821,thuscreating Georgia’s49thcounty.Thecounty seat,thecityofFayetteville,was establishedin1823andcontains theoldestcourthouseinthe state,builtin1825andlocated onFayetteville’shistorictown square.Boththecountyandcity werenamedfortheMarquisde LaFayette,whofoughtalongside GeorgeWashingtoninthe Revolutionary War.

AuthorMargaretMitchell spentmanysummersather grandfather’shomeinFayette County,whichhelpedtoinspire locationsinhernovel GoneWith the Wind.

Fayette County Water 770-461-1146

Old-fashionedcommunitypride mingleswithaprogressivesensibility onthestreetsofhistoricdowntown Fayetteville,whereantiquestores andboutiquessitsidebysidein refurbished buildings.

QUICK INFO

Boastingapopulationof approximately16,000residents, FayettevilleishometotheFayette CountyHistoricSociety,Research CenterandMuseum.Ahavenfor familyfun, DixielandFunPark offersanassortmentofactivitiesfor youngandoldalike.TheHollidayDorsey-FifeMuseumprovidesa fascinatinglinktothepastthanksto itsassociationwithseveralhistorical ﬁgures,includingMargaretMitchell and"Doc" Holliday.The1,500-seat SouthernGroundAmphitheater at-

tracts nationaltouringactswithits

annual summer concert series.

Today,the199-squaremile areaisrenownedasathriving economiccenterthatfeatures numerousattractiveincentives forbusinesses,includingthe2,200acrePeachtreeCityIndustrialPark, whichfeaturesitsownForeignTrade Zone,whichallowsmerchandiseto enterfromorexittoforeigncountries withoutaformalU.S.Customsentry orpaymentofduties.Inaddition, FayetteCountymaintainsarural, small-townallure,andhasbeen recognizedasoneofthenation’s mostattractivecommunitiesfor corporate family relocation.

County www.fayettecounty.ga.gov Neighborhoods www.fayetteville-ga.gov www.peachtree-city.org

Schools www.fcboe.org

Median household income: $82,216

Median age of residents: 42.4

Population: 107,104 Sales tax: 6% Chamber of Commerce 770-461-9983, www.fayettechamber.org

Property Taxes

Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Fayette County, $30.70; Fayetteville, $31.64; Peachtree City, $34.54. Tax Commissioner: 770-461-3611

From1984to1994,Fayette Countywastheﬁfth-fastestgrowing county in the U.S. FayetteCountyboastsseveral golfcoursesandtwoamphitheaters, amongotherattractionsservinga family-orientedpopulationofmore than106,000residents.Single-family housinginFayetteCountyranges fromthe$50,000sinmoderateincomeareastomorethan$2million in afﬂuent neighborhoods.

Pe ach tr ee

Ci ty

The area now known as Peachtree City was originally settled by Woodland Era Indians several thousand years ago, and ceded to the Federal government in 1821 by Chief William McIntosh, Jr. Comprising some 12,000 acres, Peachtree City was chartered in the 1950s as a masterplanned community of five separate villages. Today, the area is linked by a 90- mile network of trails and golf cart paths connecting homes, businesses, schools and parks. Gol carts, bicycles and walking are the preferred modes of transportation among its 35,000 residents, who enjoy its wooded scenery and wealth of parks, playgrounds and recreational areas N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

Starr's Mill in Fayetteville

Fulton County

At the center of the Metro Atlanta area is Fulton County. Bordered on the west by the Chattahoochee River and encompassing Interstates 85, 75, 285 and Ga. 400, Fulton County is at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. Most Fortune 500 corporations maintain national or regional facilities in the area; many are headquartered here, including Coca-Cola, Equifax, United Parcel Service, Home Depot, Delta Airlines and Turner Broadcasting System.

More than 3 million live and work in Fulton County. Older, innercity neighborhoods, such as Inman Park, Candler Park and trendy Virginia-Highland offer eclectic living amidst unique boutiques and restaurants. Midtown is at the heart of the city’s cultural life, home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art, Alliance Theatre and the historic Fox Theatre. Many outdoor festivals are held at Piedmont Park.

According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $270,000. Homes in the millions can be found in such affluent neighborhoods as Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Alpharetta.

Neighborhoods

Buckhead

Buckhead is also the epicenter for the city’s entertainment and dining industries. With more than 200 restaurants,

QUICK INFO

COUNTY INFORMATION

EDUCATION

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.ci.roswell.ga.us www.sandyspringsga.org Schools www.fultonschools.org www.atlanta.k12.ga.us

Median household income: $57,586

Median age of residents: 35 Population: 963,676

Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8% Chamber of Commerce

Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.com Metro Atlanta

Considered Atlanta’s “silk stocking district,” Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its one-of-a-kind Georgian and Neoclassical mansions and uniquely styled homes from the 1950s and 1960s, Buckhead is a favorite locale among architecture and history buffs. It is home to the Governor’s Mansion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center.

404-880-9000, www.metroatlantachamber.com South Fulton 770-964-1984, www.sfcoc.org

Property Taxes

The property tax rate per $1,000 is: $30.49 for the City of Atlanta; $28.03 for incorporated Fulton County; $33.69 for unincorporated South Fulton and $31.90 for unincorporated North Fulton County County. Tax Commissioner: 404-730-6100

Alpharetta

Once a small farming community, Alpharetta has greatly boomed within the last 20 years to become

one of Atlanta’s most affluent neighborhoods. Homes range from elegant subdivisions to those with acreage. The Country Club of the South is a planned community home to several sports stars, high profile executives and celebrities.

A successful combination of old and new, Alpharetta has become a haven for singles, families and professionals wanting a bit of country living with all the amenities that city dwelling offers. While many residents shop at nearby Northpoint Mall and Gwinnett Mall, many still enjoy the old stores on Main Street— a visit to the Alpharetta Soda Shoppe is a special treat N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development.

Downtown Atlanta skyline

COUNTY INFORMATION

EDUCATION

public ScHOOlS

Henry County Schools Board of Education 770-957-6601 Elementary Schools 29

Schools 12 High Schools 10 Alternative 1

Per-pupil expenditures $7,910 School & bus information 770-957-2025

Avg. SAT Score

Henry Co. 1410

Georgia 1460 National 1509

pRivATE ScHOOlS

Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county. ElEcTRiciTy

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

Central Georgia EMC 770-775-7857

Georgia Power 770-395-7611

Snapping Shoals EMC 770-786-3484

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

WATER

City of Hampton 770-946-4306

City of Stockbridge 770-389-7900

Henry County Water System 770-957-6659

Locust Grove 770-957-5043

McDonough 770-957-3915

cAblE Tv

Charter Communications 888-728-8121

Comcast 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlS

Henry Medical Center 678-604-1000

Southern Regional Medical Center 770-991-8000

Sylvan Grove Hospital 770-775-7861

Neighborhoods

McDonough

town square

Henry County

Named after Patrick Henry, orator from the Revolutionary War, Henry County is one of 17 counties created from the Creek Indian land secessions. The county is known as the “Mother of Counties” because much of its land was taken to develop surrounding counties, including Fulton, DeKalb and Clayton.

QUICK INFO

Incorporated in 1823, McDonough was named after Commodore McDonough of the War of 1812 and is the county seat. Many historic structures with architecture dating back to the 1800s can be seen in and around McDonough’s town square. McDonough, in an effort to bring its residents a sense of community, created its Main Street Program, which revitalized its Main Street. Today, the street is not only home to intimate boutiques and family-friendly restaurants, it is also home to a variety of free community events throughout the year on the town square, including Music on the Square summer concerts, Santa on the Square at Christmas, classic car shows and chili cook-offs.

county www.co.henry.ga.us Neighborhoods www.cityofstockbridge.com Schools www.henry.K12.ga.us

Median household income: $63,395

Median age of residents: 32 Population: 191,502 Sales tax: 7%

Today Henry County is made up of the cities of McDonough, Stockbridge, Locust Grove and Hampton. It is one of the fastest-growing counties in Metro Atlanta with more than 198,000 residents. The county continues to flourish as a major industrial and retail center. Tanger Outlet Center in Locust Grove is a favorite attraction among Atlanta’s shoppers.

Henry County is known best, however, as the home of Atlanta Motor Speedway and Eagle’s Landing Country Club. Located in the county since 1959, the speedway attracts people from all over the state for its two annual NASCAR races. Eagle’s Landing in Stockbridge

chamber of commerce Henry County 770-957-5786, www.henrycounty.com

property Taxes

The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is $37.51 for unincorporated Henry County. Tax Commissioner: 770-288-8180

hosts the LPGA Chick-fil-A Charity Championship.

With the county’s rich resources and convenience to I-75, housing has continued at a steady growth with such planned developments as Heron Bay Golf & Country Club and Crown Ridge cropping up everywhere. The median value of homes in 2008 was $150,189, making Henry County a very affordable place to live.

Stockbridge

Host of the LPGA Chick-fil-A Charity Championship each year in April, Stockbridge is a golfer’s paradise. Eagle’s Landing, the community surrounding the 18-hole Eagle’s Landing golf course, is home to some of the most beautiful and exclusive neighborhoods south of Atlanta. The 51,000-square-foot, plantation-style clubhouse on the property exemplifies Georgian charm. Home prices range from the hundredthousands to the millions.

Incorporated in 1920, Stockbridge began as a settlement in 1829 and celebrates its heritage each May with Ole’ Stockbridge Days. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

McDonough’s

upcomingEVENTS

Theater & Concerts

Peter Pan, Fox Theatre

Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby reprises her signature role as the boy who refuses to grow up in this magical Theater of the Stars production. Aug. 7-12, 855-285-8499, www.theaterofthestars.com.

The Addams Family, Fox Theatre

Revisit old friends Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Lurch, Wednesday and Pugsley in this lively musical based on the enduring characters you know and love from television and film. Aug. 14-19, 855-285-8499, www.theaterofthestars.com.

The Grass Roots, Southern Ground Amphitheater

The latest incarnation of the classic rock band responsible for such hits as “Midnight Confessions” and “Let’s Live for Today” performs. Aug. 18, 770-719-4173, www.southerngroundamp.com.

The King and I, Fox Theatre

A British governess is brought to the court of Siam to tutor the children of the king in this enchanting love story featuring such classic songs as “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance.” Sept. 5-11, 855-285-8499, www.theaterofthestars.com.

Banks & Shane, Heritage Green

The popular high-energy band led by Banks Burgess and Paul Shane for almost 40 years wraps up the 16th edition of the “Concerts by the Springs” free outdoor music series. Sept. 9, 404-851-9111, www.heritagesandysprings.org.

The Indigo Girls, Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Grammy Award-winning duo, who began their career in Decatur, perform. Sept. 14, 404-876-5859, www.concertsinthegarden.org.

Exhibits & Events.

Night at the Museum IV, Tellus Science Museum

This fascinating Cartersville museum comes alive with actors portraying scientists, authors and adventurers—both real and fictional. All children receive a free autograph book to collect signatures from some of the biggest names in science and science fiction. Aug. 4, 770-606-5700, www.tellusmuseum.org.

The Art of War, Atlanta Cyclorama

Internationally known artist Kara Walker discusses the challenges, themes and inspirations of her work. Aug. 10, 404-658-7625, www.atlantacyclorama.org.

Slavery,

The Civil War, and African American Mental Health, Atlanta Cyclorama

Dr. Joy Degruy discusses her book, “Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America’s Legacy of Enduring Injury and Healing.” Aug. 24, 404-658-7625, www.atlantacyclorama.org.

American Legacy: Our National Parks, Booth Western Art Museum

View 100 paintings of some of the nation’s most beautiful national parks, painted by artists on location at each park. Through Aug. 26, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.

Decatur Book Festival, Decatur Square

The nation’s largest independent book festival celebrates its seventh year with more than 300 authors participating in readings, talks, panel discussions and book signings. Aug. 31-Sept. 2, www.decaturbookfestival.com.

Dragon*Con, Downtown Atlanta

The Southeast’s largest science-fiction, fantasy and pop-culture convention returns, spread out over five hotels in downtown Atlanta. Featured guests include more than 250 authors, artists, actors, illustrators and musicians. There are also vendors, panel discussions and more. Aug. 31-Sept. 3, www.dragoncon.org.

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival, Callaway Gardens

Close out the summer with a breathtaking display of balloons in flight on Saturday and Sunday. Round out the weekend with a farmers market, exhibits, entertainment, a car show, demonstrations and more. Aug. 31-Sept. 3, 800-225-5292, www.callawaygardens.com.

Picturing New York/Picturing the South, High Museum of Art

This exhibit pairs nearly 150 photos of New York from the Museum of Modern Art with additions to the High’s “Picturing the South” series, featuring new commissions from photographers Martin Parr, Kael Alford, and Shane Lavalette. Through Sept. 2, 404-733-5000, www.high.org.

Superior Plumbing North Georgia State Fair, Jim R. Miller Park

The largest fair in metro Atlanta returns for an 80th year with concerts from Newsboys, Steve

PHOTO: Courtesy of Callaway Gardens

The Indigo Girls, Atlanta Botanical Garden

PHOTO: Jeremy Cowart

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival, Callaway Gardens

Holy and Sara Evans, among others. Other attractions include horse shows, an Atlanta puppet show, alligators, a BMX bike stunt show, a petting zoo and more than 40 amusement rides and games. Sept. 20-30, 770-423-1330, www.northgeorgiastatefair.com.

Wings Over North Georgia Air Show, Richard B. Russell Regional Airport

This inaugural air show features high-flying fun from the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the Black Diamond Jet Team, OTTO the Helicopter, hangglider Dan Buchanan and comedy stunt flyer Kent Pietsch. The event also features a barbecue classic and auto show. Sept. 28-30, www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com.

Foxfire Mountaineer Festival, Rabun County Civic Center

Have an old-fashioned good time at this event filled with exhibits and demonstrations of different aspects of southern Appalachian culture such as woodworking, broom-making, pottery, folk art painting, blacksmithing and more. The festival also features a raffle and live auction, food, live bluessgrass and gospel music, and events including archery, three-legged races and sack races. Oct. 6, 706-746-5828, www.foxfiremountaineer.org.

The Magic School Bus Kicks Up A Storm, Imagine It! The Children’s Museum

This Scholastic exhibit takes children into the world of weather with three interactive environments that explore how weather is created, experienced and measured. Oct. 6-Jan. 27, 2013, 404-659-5437, www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Powder Springs Farmers Market, Downtown Powder Springs

For the third year, this market supports and promotes local farmers, home growers and purveyors of foods prepared with local products. Through October, www.cityofpowdersprings.org.

Inside CNN Studio Tour, CNN Center

Get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the world’s first and most famous 24-hour news network. Watch the CNN newsroom in action and have your picture taken while reading the day’s news. Ongoing, 404-827-2300, www.cnn.com/tour.

Suwanee SculpTour, Suwanee

Downtown Suwanee’s walkable outdoor exhibit of original sculptures returns for a second year, featuring 15 all-new sculptures created by 11 artists, representing Georgia and five other states. Ongoing, www.suwanee.com.

Heritage Sandy Springs Beer Fest, Aug. 11

Enjoy more than 70 specialty beers at this third annual event, which also features great food from area restaurants and live entertainment. Ages 21 and up only. www.hssbeerfest.com.

Sandy Springs Festival, Sept. 22-23

For more than 25 years, Sandy Springs’ signature event has drawn thousands for two days of great food and live entertainment. Highlights include 5K and 10K races, an artists’ market, a collector car show and a business and civic expo. www.sandyspringsfestival.com.

Elegant Elf Marketplace, Nov. 9-10

Browse among unique products and gifts from more than 60 international artists and vendors in a festive “winter wonderland” setting. The event also includes holiday decorating demonstrations and a “Breakfast with the Elves” on Saturday morning. www.sandyspringssociety.org

hiddenATLANTA

O LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Building Creativity and Family Fun

by Lindsay Oberst

ne of Atlanta’s newest family-friendly attractions, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a dream come true for adults and children alike—a dream constructed out of more than 2 million colorful LEGO bricks. Opened in March of this year, this 35,000-square foot space at Phipps Plaza in Buckhead is an interactive playground that sparks kids’ creativity at every turn, and offers a little education along the way.

Designed for children ages 3 through 10, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is filled with wonders like the 4D Cinema, which lets viewers become part of the story unfolding onscreen as they experience bursts of wind, rain, snow and even lightning. At the Build and Test zone, kids create their own vehicles and test them on a speed track, while at the Earthquake Tables, they construct towering buildings and then stand back and watch as the plates shift, testing the strength of their creations.

Little visitors can also perform on the karaoke stage at LEGO Friends, see how these beloved bricks are made in the LEGO factory, and participate in adventure areas like Kingdom Quest, Merlin’s Apprentice and the LEGO Fire Academy.

Adults will appreciate the educational benefits of the center, which offers school trips that get students excited about using math and introduce them to basic concepts of physics and engineering. Grown-ups will also get a kick out of MINILAND, featuring miniature versions of such local landmarks as the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Stone Mountain, the Margaret Mitchell House and Centennial Olympic Park. And the second Thursday of each month brings Adult Night, allowing visitors without children to check out the attraction and participate in building challenges with the center’s Model Builders.

The staff recommends two to three hours to take everything in, but you might want to budget a little extra time to hit the on-site café—and the LEGOLAND shop, bursting with more than 900 products including the latest LEGO sets. Of course, no matter how long your visit, your little ones will be shouting “When are we coming back?” before you’ve even left.

For hours, ticket prices and other information about LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta, call 404-848-9252 or visit www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

PHOTOS: (Left) Ben Evans/Photo Images by Ben and (right) LEGOLAND Discovery Center