Newcomer Magazine June/July 2016

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June/July CONTENTS FEATURES 7 Fun Sightseeing Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ..10 The 30 Best Things to Do in Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 From a behind-the-scenes tour of CNN to exciting bus, bike and walking expeditions, these tours offer a whole different side of Atlanta.

Now that you’re a new Atlanta resident, it’s time to explore the best things to see and do in your new city. Here’s our list of the top 30 places you should experience.

Dealing With Bullies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Georgia’s Best Beaches ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Find out how Atlanta schools are tackling the serious problem of bullying—and what parents can do to help.

From remote island escapes to sandy getaways near the big city, Georgia has a beach for every occasion. Here are five of our favorites.

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DEPARTMENTS In Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Dining Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta.

You don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to enjoy a romantic meal.

From formal to casual, haute cuisine to New American, we unveil nine of Atlanta’s best date restaurants.

Neighborhood Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 With its walkable downtown district, family-friendly atmosphere and close proximity to downtown Atlanta, Duluth is a peaceful alternative to intown living.

School Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Norcross’ Victory World Christian School emphasizes a multicultural education inspired by its student body—and the more than 100 nationalities represented in it.

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Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 A comprehensive guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including counties, neighborhoods, relocation tips, a map to metro Atlanta 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 Home to many popular events and a host of natural amenities, the 189-acre Piedmont Park is one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions.

PHOTOS: (Left) Dudley Merrifield; (Center) Jeff Roffman.

Homes and Communities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Learn about the difference between homeowners associations and neighborhood associations—their responsibilities, common rules and relative costs—and which might be right for you.

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H.M. Cauley, Sheila Cosgrove, Carly Felton, Susan Flowers, Hope S. Philbrick, Laura Raines, Jackson Reeves Cady Schulman, Muriel Vega director of sales & marketing

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inFOCUS news bites from around ATLANTA

A TRIP TO THE

Looking for a fun and unique way to tour some of Atlanta’s coolest neighborhoods? The fourth annual Atlanta Moon Ride has got you covered. This 6-mile bike ride takes place at night, and riders are encouraged to ride in style, with colorful costumes, decorative helmets—anything goes. All proceeds benefit Bert’s Big Adventure, which provides an allexpenses paid trip to Disney World for children with chronic illnesses. June 10. For more information, visit atlantamoonride.com.

A FABULOUS FOURTH

PHOTO: Ron Wood, Courtesy American Federation of Arts/Bata Shoe Museum

Metro Atlanta offers plenty of ways to celebrate Independence Day. A list of our favorites would have to include the Legendary Fourth of July at Lenox Square, with live music from Sons of Sailors and Party on the Moon and one of the largest fireworks displays in the southeast (simon.com/mall/lenox-square).About 45 minutes north of the city in Buford, the Star-Spangled Fourth at the Mall of Georgia features children’s rides, live music, food and beverage concessions, a screening of “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay—Part 2” and, of course, lots of fireworks. Visit simon.com/mall/mall-of-georgia for more information.

It’s Shoe Time!

The Rise of Sneaker Culture traces the evolution of this fabulous footwear from the mid-nineteenth century to the present, its history as a status symbol and its ongoing cultural significance.

View more than 150 sneakers, including ones made by major fashion houses and designed by celebrities like Kanye West. The exhibit runs from June 11 through Aug. 14 at the High Museum of Art. For more information, call 404-733-5000 or visit high.org.

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Suwanee Named a Top Tree City Suwanee is already known for its convenient location and high quality of life. On top of that, it was recently honored for being a green city—literally! The Gwinnett County city was designated a Tree City USA on Arbor Day for its commitment to caring for and managing its public trees. With help from volunteers, Suwanee planted elm and oak trees at the Crossroads Center, helping it to win this honor for the 25th consecutive year. Congratulations to all!

PHOTO: Jeff McPhail

moon

infocus An Exhibit Your Kids Will Love

PHOTO: Daniel A. Swalec

PHOTO: Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh

Many children’s exhibits teach valuable lessons about food, science and other subjects.

But the new exhibit at Children’s Museum of Atlanta tackles one of the most important topics of all. XOXO: An Exhibit About Love and Forgiveness, lets visitors write down loving thoughts, create unique faces using blocks, create a five-second video expressing happiness, sadness and other emotions, and much more. The exhibit runs from June 11 through Sept. 4. For more information, visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

There’s No Place Like Oz You don’t have to wander the Yellow Brick Road or tap your ruby slippers together for a grand adventure—just head to Broadway in Atlanta’s The Wizard of Oz at the Fox Theatre. Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion are all on hand for this spectacular production, which includes the beloved songs of the classic movie, along with new tunes by Tim Rice and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. The show runs from June 21 through 26. For tickets and more information, visit broadwayinatlanta.com.

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Atlanta TOURING

7 Fun Ways to Explore Your New Home

By H.M. Cauley

Whether the moving van just pulled away or you’ve been in Atlanta for a few weeks or months already, you’ll find learning about the city is an ongoing process. There’s a lot to take in, from hiddengem parks to museums and neighborhoods that even longtime residents may not know about. Here are seven tours designed to increase your knowledge—and appreciation—of your new home.

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Atlanta Beltline Bus Tours The Beltline is a 22-mile trail that loops around much of the city, providing a convenient system of accessible walking and biking trails, parks, green spaces, neighborhoods and developments. One of the best ways to explore it is via a three-hour bus tour that departs from the Inman Park MARTA station every Friday and Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. The tour weaves on and off the path, showcasing spots, such as the Bellwood Quarry (featured in The Hunger Games), that can only be seen from the trail.

Reservations are $22 per person and must be made in advance. Starting at 9 a.m. on the 15th of each month, the reservation line opens for the following month. Groups of up to 15 people can be accommodated on a limited basis, and private tours for up to 32 people are available for a tour fee with nonprofit rates available. 404-446-4400, beltline.org.

Tour guides teach you to ride a Segway in a detailed how-to session.

Atlanta Segway Experience Tour

Before you hop on a Segway to see some of the city’s top sights, tour guides teach you how to ride one of these fun motorized roundabouts in a detailed how-to session. Then you’re off to check out Atlanta highlights on one of two different tours: the Eastside tour, which takes in Inman Park, Cabbagetown, Oakland Cemetery, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site; or the Midtown/Downtown tour, covering the Fox Theatre, Margaret Mitchell House, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. Children ages 14-17 must be accompanied by an adult, and all participants must sign a liability waiver. Tours are approximately 2.5 hours long and cover 7-8 miles total distance. Price is $59. 404-492-7009, atlcruzers.com.

Atlanta Experience Electric Car Tour The same company that conducts the Segway excursions offers a second option: Settle back into an open-air electric car and cover 15 miles of Atlanta highlights with ease over 90 minutes.

Knowledgeable tour guides take the five-passenger shuttles to a range of important sights, including the Fox Theatre, the Margaret Mitchell House, the Georgia Tech campus, the CNN Center, the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. Children must be at least 8 years old. Groups larger than five can spread out between two or more cars. Reservations are required; tickets indicate the tour’s starting point.

Tickets are $15 for children and $27 for seniors, $29 for adults. 404-492-7009, atlcruzers.com. u www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 11

TOP: (Left) Walking tours let you get close to Atlanta landmarks (Right) Walk back into Atlanta history on an Oakland Cemetery Tour. BOTTOM: Bike tours let you see the city while you get in a workout.

ter of famous Atlantans who rest there (including Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell and golf great Bobby Jones). Pick up a map ($5) at the visitors center and wander the grounds at your leisure, or follow a costumed guide on a 90-minute highlight tour, offered every weekend. The cemetery also hosts a variety of special events and tours throughout the year. Guided tours are $6 for seniors and students (with ID) and $12 for adults; admission for a family of four (two adults and two children) is $28. 404688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com.

Bicycle Tours of Atlanta Get a good cardio workout while seeing some of Atlanta’s hotspots. Choose from three on-road treks: through eight miles of the historic downtown district; to a variety of the city’s public artworks, or a twilight tour that takes in the Beltline and several historic neighborhoods at dusk. Though most tours take about three hours, there’s plenty of time to stop, check out the scenery and take pictures.

Most tours take place on Thursdays through Sundays, but appointments are also available.

Ticket prices ($49-$59) include bike, helmet and water. 404-273-2558; biketoursatl.com.

every day between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Admission is $16 for adults and $13 for ages 4-12. Linger longer with the $49 Morning Express tour, which takes visitors to the set of “Morning Express” and the HLN control room every Thursday at 8:45 a.m.

Children on this tour must be at least 12 years old. The Inside CNN VIP tour ($35) takes off four times a day Monday through Saturday, and takes visitors through both the CNN and HLN newsrooms (The VIP tour is subject to the discretion of CNN and may not take place each week). 404-827-2300, cnn.com/tour.

CNN Tours

Oakland Cemetery Tours

The cable news giant offers three ways to see the real CNN from behind the scenes. The quickest is the 55-minute Inside CNN Tour, offered

Explore the city’s oldest burial ground—founded in 1850—while learning about the Victorian architecture, Civil War memorials and the ros-

Get a cardio workout while seeing local hotspots.

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Learn about the city through its landmarks with a guided walking tour through eight of its most fascinating neighborhoods, available March through November. Trained guides from the Preservation Center point out the historic highlights, from the Victorian mansions of Inman Park to the city’s first downtown skyscrapers. What makes these 90-minutes tours particularly appealing is that most guides live in the neighborhoods they showcase. “These are volunteers who bring energy and excitement along with folksy details to the areas they love themselves,” says the Preservation Center’s Paul Hammock. “They have no script. Their goal is to start a conversation about places that aren’t emphasized very often. It’s 90 minutes that will stretch your legs and expand your mind.”

A list of neighborhoods that are toured, times and meeting places is available on the Center’s website. Private group tours are also available. $5 for adults, $10 for students and seniors 60 and over (cash or check only). 404-688-3353, atlantapreservationcenter.com.

PHOTOS: (Top Let) Courtesy of Paul Hammock; (Top Right) Joseph Thompson; (Bottom) Dudley Merrifield.

Atlanta Preservation Center Walking Tours

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Community Organizations The Benefits of Homeowners’ and Neighborhood Associations

By Susan Flowers

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When it comes to neighborhoods, Atlanta offers everything from older, tree-lined communities to new subdivisions with the latest perks. And those areas offer just as much variety in neighborhood and homeowners’ associations. Whether you’re looking for an area with strict standards for appearance with an eye toward property values, or a place with fewer rules but more personality, metro Atlanta has the right neighborhood for you.

Is An HOA Right for You? A homeowner’s association (HOA) is a legal entity that is typically responsible for upholding rules governing the appearance of properties.

An HOA will often have the right to enforce those rules by issuing fines and even placing liens on properties of noncompliant owners.

“The big advantage is that there’s a standard that’s set for everyone,” says Realtor Josh Jarvis of Jarvis Team Realty. “They also do some other things, like maintain the amenities.” Because of the HOA, these neighborhoods are often able to offer pools, sidewalks, clubhouses or tennis courts.

Cal McShan, vice president of the Atlanta division of Sentry Management, which handles HOAs for 300,000 homes, condominiums and

townhomes across the country, notes that an HOA can be crucial to your home’s value in the long run. “In today’s market, having the help of an association, in terms of the services that are provided, is key to the health of the property you’re purchasing,” he says.

“If things are uniformly maintained [by an HOA], you don’t have the issue of one or two sore thumbs” lowering the value of every home in the neighborhood, says Paul Queen, director of marketing for Sentry Management.

Of course, one person’s sore thumb can be another’s needed enhancement. An HOA’s interpretation of standards can differ from yours.

“They can also restrict things that you want to do to the home,” Jarvis says. “For example, you may want to put an outbuilding on your

property. You may not be able to, or it might cost more than it would otherwise, because you can’t just go get an aluminum building.”

Another potential drawback is the impact of HOA dues on your purchasing power. While a well-maintained neighborhood can prevent your home’s value from depreciating, what you pay toward an HOA will be considered by banks when you apply for a loan, because your dues have an exponential impact on your debtto-income ratio.

“If you pay $600 a year, that’s $50 a month,” says Jarvis. “A lot of people don’t think about that.” This can play an especially large role in the purchase of a townhome or condo, or in the purchase of a home priced near the limit of what you can afford. u

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Do Your Research If you’re looking for a home in a neighborhood with an HOA, a little due diligence can pay off in the long run.

Ask to see financial reports for any HOA you’re seriously considering. Without adequate funding, amenities can’t be maintained and improvements can’t be made. It’s reasonable to expect that your neighborhood’s pool and other features will be just as attractive in 10 years as they are today.

It’s also a good idea to ask to see the minutes of the past few HOA meetings. These documents can inform you of ongoing problems that can factor into your decision to buy. “What they’re talking about in the minutes gives you a good snapshot of what the issues are in a neighborhood,” says Queen.

Although HOA documents are nobody’s idea of a page-turner, it’s still important to give them a thorough read. If an HOA’s standards differ significantly from yours, it’s better to know before you purchase.

Drive through the neighborhood to be sure that it’s properly maintained. Amenities or homes in poor condition can tell you that an HOA isn’t doing its job.

And if you’re considering a gated community, be aware that everything inside those gates is the responsibility of the neighborhood’s homeowners. If a road inside a gated community needs paving, the association, not the county, is responsible for the cost. “In a gated community, the only things they don’t own are the mailboxes,” says Jarvis.

Neighborhood Associations If you’re looking for a looser structure than that offered by many homeowners’ associations, a neighborhood association might be the ticket.

Found more often in areas close to Atlanta’s downtown than in the suburbs, neighborhood associations frequently act as advocates for a community, working with elected officials on improvements and taking actions to enhance the area’s quality of life.

A neighborhood association is typically less concerned with enforcing standards for appearance, and more concerned with issues that affect the community, says Nancy Dorsner of the Lake Claire Neighbors.

“Really it’s just having an organization that can represent the neighborhood when things come up like school redistricting,” she says. “It’s a whole lot easier for the association to get face time with elected representatives. Every person in the neighborhood can’t get a meeting with our city council person. We can speak with one voice on neighborhood issues, like recom16 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

In today’s market, having the help of an association, in terms of the services provided, is key to the health of the property you’re purchasing.

mending that a traffic light should be changed.”

Although the name suggests that it’s an HOA, the 1,200-member Dunwoody Homeowners Association is actually closer to a neighborhood association in function. The Dunwoody HOA covers the entire city of Dunwoody, a DeKalb County suburb with a population of around 46,000. With events including Food Truck Thursdays, a Fourth of July parade and live concerts, “We very much add to the quality of life in our city,” says President Stacey Harris. The group also hosts candidates’ forums for city council and mayoral elections.

The Lake Claire Neighbors group seldom, if ever, tackles issues relating to the appearance of individual homes. “Even though we may have an issue of growing grass too long, we prefer the more flexible and free approach to how our neighborhood evolves,” says Dorsner. “Our neighborhood is laid back. We like the fact that it’s quirky and interesting. We don’t have to have all matching mailboxes,” Dorsner says.

Remember that HOAs and neighborhood associations are different entities that serve different functions, and be aware of what each offers and what you want when you’re investigating a particular community.

IMPORTANT FACTS • An HOA is a group of property owners with the authority to enforce rules concerning such issues as yard work, uniformity of appearance, and safety.

• A neighborhood association is a group of neighbors and business owners concerned with such issues as quality of life.

• If you move into a community with an HOA, membership is generally mandatory.

• Most condominium communities are HOAs. • Some HOAs have restrictions about parties, noise, etc.

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Duluth Among this city’s kid-friendly draws are the 35-acre Southeastern Railway Museum and the Arena at Gwinnett Center.

East Point Affordable homes and easy access to downtown Atlanta make East Point a great option for new families. Plentiful recreation options include the Georgia Soccer Park, which features naturalgrass playing fields.

Family-Friendly NEIGHBORHOODS

Worth a Look

Finding the right area to call home is the most important part of the relocation process, and that’s even truer for families with small children. Here are some of the metro Atlanta area’s top communities that offer something for every member of your household.

College Park

Decatur

This growing community boasts a wealth of gorgeous historic homes and a pedestrianfriendly Main Street. It’s also home to Woodward Academy, the largest private school in the country.

This walkable city just east of Atlanta radiates a cozy, small-town charm, especially around its historic square. Public transportation is easily accessible, and recreational activities are plentiful, as well.

College Park

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Lawrenceville Metro Atlanta’s second-oldest city features such family-friendly attractions as the Aurora Theatre, the Gwinnett Braves minor-league baseball team and Medieval Times.

Marietta This Cobb County hub offers affordable housing, a strong school system and family-friendly attractions like the Gone With the Wind Museum, the Earl Smith Strand Theatre, Six Flags White Water and the historic downtown square.

Smyrna This suburban city 15 miles northwest of Atlanta boasts the Village Green, a charming town center, as well as 33 acres of park space and the Silver Comet Trail.

Suwanee Parks and green space are a key part of this city’s appeal, and the Gwinnett County school system is widely considered the best in the state.

Woodstock Known for its proximity to Lake Allatoona, this Cherokee County suburb features 13 public beaches, four city parks, an historic downtown and the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

Decatur

neighborhood

spotlight Duluth

by Cady Schulman

L

ocated in Gwinnett County, the charming city of Duluth boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, with kid-approved attractions and a walkable downtown district. It’s also a thriving arts and economic destination, home to a large shopping mall and a popular arena. About half an hour’s drive north from downtown Atlanta, Duluth offers a convenient retreat for those seeking a peaceful but happening alternative to big-city living.

Housing

Luciano’s Ristorante Italiano

Fridays N Duluth

Duluth is home to 28,404 residents with a median household income of $59,107. Homes are priced above the state as a whole: The median housing price is $196,650, compared to the state’s median cost of $166,235. In the Abbotts Pointe Subdivision (770-904-5267), a variety of affordable homes have an average list price of around $208,000. Colonial Grand at McDaniel Farm (770-814-4100) offers apartments with vaulted ceilings, fireplaces and wooded views. Rent ranges from $848 to $3,008 on the higher end.

The Gwinnett Performing Arts Center (770-813-7500) is a beautiful 708-seat theatre that features orchestra performances, ballets such as “Beauty and the Beast” and other shows.

The 35-acre Southeastern Railway Museum (770-476-2013) allows visitors to ride in historic railroad cabooses and walk among vintage steam locomotives.

Every May through October, the weekly Fridays N Duluth features live music, food trucks, and the bi-weekly Flicks on the Bricks outdoor movie series.

Schools and Healthcare

Culinary Treats

Duluth is home to Notre Dame Academy (678387-9385), which opened in 2005 with only 151 students and now has an enrollment of more than 560 in grades Pre-K-9.

The city also has its own hospital, Gwinnett Medical Center—Duluth (678-312-6800), which features the latest in medical care, including the Center for Cancer Care, the Center for Orthopedics, and Gwinnett SportsRehab.

Arts and Entertainment The city is home to the Infinite Energy Center (770-813-7500), which hosts the Atlanta Gladiators ice hockey team as well as many conventions and events.

Infinite Energy Center

Atlanta Gladiators

The Inside Track Duluth was named one of the 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Georgia by the travel website Culture Trip in 2016, and was ranked the No. 4 Best Atlanta Suburb by the real estate site Movoto.

There are plenty of restaurants to sample in Duluth, from local Southern cuisine to tastes of Cuba, Korea or Iran. The Arena Tavern (770623-4585) is located by The Arena at Gwinnett Center and is a convenient choice for those who want to grab a bite before taking in a show or a hockey game. The restaurant features a typical tavern menu with burgers, sliders, wings and sandwiches, as well as beer, wine and cocktails.

Luciano’s Ristorante Italiano (770-255-1727) serves upscale cuisine such as steaks, pastas, and gourmet pizzas and flatbreads. Breakers Korean Grill and Barbecue (770-946-1000) features marinated meats and vegetables cooked right at your table. N

EDUC AT I O N

I N S I G H T

DEALING WITH

BULLIES How Metro Atlanta Schools Are Tackling The Issue

By Laura Raines

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What is Bullying?

The educational experience is constantly changing, as technology and teaching methods evolve. But one aspect of school life remains as present as reading, writing and arithmetic—bullying. It’s a problem that torments many children, and can have lasting effects long beyond a child’s school years, including depression, poor self esteem, trust issues, and aggression.

Fortunately, public and independent Atlanta schools have procedures in place to deal with the issue, and aim to tackle the problem through their curricula as well.

According to the most recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 20 percent of U.S. high school students reported being bullied in school in 2013. Bullying continues to make the news—and that’s a good thing, says Chantel Mullen, formerly dean of student discipline/student relations for Atlanta Public Schools (APS), now with the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement. “Raising awareness helps. You can’t attack anything if you are not aware of it.” To that end, APS co-sponsors an annual anti-bullying summit in conjunction with Auburn University.

Attacking the problem begins with having a clear definition. The website StopBullying.gov defines bullying as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.”

Under Georgia law, the term “bullying” refers to (1) Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so; (2) Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or (3) Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or intimidate…” It covers acts occurring on school property or vehicles, at designated bus stops, at school activities, or by use of data or software accessible through any computer or computer network.

“We define bullying by Georgia’s law, and print it in our student handbooks,” says Mullen. “Our policy is no tolerance. Our students know that bullying has consequences, such as being cited and asked to sign a stay-away agreement, changes in scheduling, suspension or transfer to an alternative school.” u www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 21

APS maintains an anti-bullying page on its website (atlanta.k12. ga.us), with multiple resources for students, teachers and parents.

We frequently send information to our parents and teachers. Counselors discuss it with students,” says Mullen. “You can’t get too much information out about this topic.”

Teaching Positive Behaviors Curtailing negative behaviors is necessary, but educators are finding that teaching positive behaviors and creating inclusive, supportive school environments can make a bigger impact, according to Katherine Raczynski, director of Safe and Welcoming Schools, an outreach project of the University of Georgia’s College of Education.

Many Atlanta public and independent schools have adopted “No Place for Hate” campaigns, sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League, or participated in Power Over Prejudice programs, sponsored by the AntiPrejudice Consortium.

“The best thing we do is teach kids to see beyond stereotypes and prejudices and to learn to become leaders in solving their own problems,” says Amelia Nickerson, board president for Power Over Prejudice (POP).

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Student representatives interact with one another at annual POP summits, then go back to start programs in their schools. “We ask kids what they can do, how they can take responsibility. You’d be amazed at the variety of programs they start in their own schools.”

Teaching responsibility and respect for others begins early at Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia, where students range in age from 15 months to 6 years old. The school has policies about behavior, which

teachers enforce. “But we believe in giving students the tools to deal with someone or something they don’t like,” says Denise Harold, director. “Students know … their needs can’t hurt or disturb anyone else. No one child’s needs supersede those of the community.”

Giving children responsibility for themselves and ownership of their environment, as well as modeling respect, empathy and peaceful conflict resolution, are Montessori tenets. “When children take ownership for their environment, they want to maintain a good environment,” says Harold.

The Lovett School stresses character development in its students and believes that creating the right school atmosphere is most important. It has a no-tolerance policy and addresses any reports of bullying. Every student also signs a character pledge that says he will honor the values of honesty, respect, responsibility and compassion. And counselors visit classes regularly for guidance sessions. “In kindergarten, we talk about valuing the differences in others,” says Gayle Greenwood, director of lower school counseling. “In fourth and fifth grades, when peer pres-

sure kicks in, we discuss what it means to be a friend.”

In middle school, counselors meet with sixth-grade boys and girls separately in small groups to address bullying, body image and online etiquette. “The point is to get them thinking and talking to each other about topics that are important to them,” says middle school counselor Sara Friedman.

Character and values are also reinforced in class through book discussions, papers and projects. “Anti-bullying can’t just be a sign or a slogan,” says director of middle school counseling Chase Jones. “It has to be in the fabric of your school culture.”

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO ABOUT BULLYING 1. If you suspect your child is being bullied, ask him—he may not volunteer the information.

2. Look for warning signs. He may show decreased interest in school, have angry outbursts, or even hurt himself.

3. If he tells you he’s being bullied, listen calmly, without getting upset, and offer your support.

4. Help him figure out appropriate responses to the bullying behavior. It’s important that he feel as if he’s handling the problem himself, rather than you “solving” it for him.

5. If the bullying behavior is severe enough, contact the child’s teacher, counselor or principal and work with them to determine what next steps may need to be taken.

Johns Creek Montessori sChool GeorGia of Geor

Sowing the seeds of organic learning Multi-age, vibrant learning communities with uninterrupted blocks of work time Montessori certified teacher in every classroom Hands-on, multi-sensory learning materials Nutritious lunch, organic milk, and healthy snacks offered daily 6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-814-8001 • www.JCMSOG.org www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 23

schoolSPOTLIGHT

Victory World Christian School

Helping Students Live Together in a Diverse World

By Cady Schulman

B

uilt on the foundations of a challenging education and Christian discipleship, Victory World Christian School strives to develop in its students a strong moral center and the ability to communicate and live in an increasingly multicultural world. Located in Norcross, Victory World Christian School—an auxiliary ministry of Victory World Church—serves the area’s thriving immigrant community, with a diverse campus reflecting many different ethnicities and nationalities.

“We’re really unique in the United States,” says Head of School Irene Prue. “We’re probably one of the only schools of our kind.”

Having so many nations represented in one school enables students to experience different customs first hand. Children at Victory World Christian School learn about the different kinds of foods eaten in other countries, and how people from other nations relate to others and honor their elders, among other topics.

“Sometimes living in a world where there’s one group, you think that’s the norm,” Prue says. “Being used to the rich diversity perspective that other cultures have exposes you to different ways of thinking.”

As a result of the school’s multicultural approach, Prue says, students easily accept and create friendships with those who are different from themselves.

“For them to develop relationships that are really rich and honoring, it’s just beautiful,” she says.

Another way that Victory World Christian School helps to bridge the gap between cultures is by providing Rosetta Stone software, which allows students to learn other languages—and helps their parents to learn to speak better English, as well.

That’s just a part of the way the school embraces technology to en-

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hance the learning experience. Students from kindergarten through fifth grade use Neo2 laptops, which helps familiarize them with technology— and can provide added benefits, such as giving students the ability to answer questions in a poll format during class.

“This is really important for the child who is quiet and unsure of themselves,” Prue says. “It gives the child anonymity in responding and when they know they got it right, their confidence builds and the shy child blossoms into a confident learner willing to be more verbal and take risks.”

Victory World currently serves students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. But Prue says the school hopes to expand and add more grades in the future.

“We really feel like we need special space and all the accoutrements that go along with having a middle school,” she says. “We really want to do middle school like they used to, where you have classes like Shop and Home Economics. We feel like that’s really missing. We just need the resources and the space to do that.”

In the meantime, the school’s faculty continues serving not just its students, but also their parents—talking with them about the Christian concept of intentional parenting and how to both love and lead at the same time.

“We just have a really strong community, where families really know each other,” says Prue. “It really does take a village to raise a child.” N

The Specifics Grades: Pre-K-5 Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Tuition: $6,500 Location: Norcross

Contact: 5905 Brook Hollow Parkway Norcross, GA 30071 678-684-2030 Web: www.vwcs.org

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 25

Atlanta’ s 30 Best Things to Do A Guide to the City’s Unique Offerings and Experiences

By Jackson Reeves

Woodruff Arts Center is home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theatre, and the High Museum of Art.

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PHOTO: Jeff Roffman

As summer comes into full swing, it’s time to get out and enjoy the warm weather, have fun with the kids, and explore your new city.

We’ve put together our list of suggestions for 30 of Atlanta’s most unique places that every Atlantan should discover and experience.

Whether you enjoy browsing for antiques, tasting some international cuisine or catching up on the local history, you’re sure to find plenty to do over the summer months.

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra plays a repertoire ranging from the pops to the classics.

The Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market is like sampling a buffet on wheels.

TASTE ATLANTA’S FLAVOR

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market

Chamblee’s Antique Row District

Looking for a little bit of everything?

This spot hosts various food trucks from throughout the city on different days offering a range of items, including tacos at Yumbii, popsicles at the King of Pops, and the eponymous fries at the Fry Guy. 1850 Howell Mill Road, 678-883-8471, atlantafoodtruckpark.com

This entire stroll can set you back a pretty penny. One place not to miss: the 12,000-square-foot Broad Street Antique Mall, where you can find vintage jewelry, Civil War artifacts, Art Deco pieces, and thousands of old post cards. 770-458-6316, antiquerow.com

Dining at Inman Park

Need to decorate your new home? Recent trips to this Decatur destination unearthed railroad lanterns, an English oak China hutch, a walnut credenza from the ’60s, a midcentury modern desk, and an orb chandelier. 2928 E Ponce de Leon Avenue, 404-373-6498, kudzuantiques.com

Kudzu Antiques

After a serious construction project, central Inman Park has become a hotspot for restaurants. Check out Beetlecat for oysters, Barcelona Wine Bar for tapas, Sotto Sotto for Italian, and Bartaco for Mexican. inmanpark.org

International Cuisine on Buford Highway Explore this northeast corridor for all things outside the typical burgersand-pizza cuisine. Try Vietnamese at Pho Dai Loi, Bangladeshi at Panahar, Japanese at Sushi House Hayakawa, or Chinese at Canton House—all just a short drive from one another. eatbufordhighway.com

Krog Street Market An ideal spot for a solid dinner, hit up this destination just off the BeltLine for Mex-Tex cuisine at Superica, French-inspired dishes at the Luminary, or saki and sushi at Craft Izakaya. 99 Krog Street, 770-434-2400, krogstreetmarket.com

TOP RIGHT PHOTO: J.D. Scott

Ponce City Market This open market has everything an adventurous foodie could desire. Let your taste buds run wild with gourmet Italian market Belina, South African beef jerky at Biltong Bar, deep-fried chicken sliders at Hop’s Chicken, and Korean steamed buns at Simply Seoul Kitchen. 675 Ponce De Leon Avenue, 404-900-7900, poncecitymarket.com

Westside Provisions District Top foodie draws at this walkable destination just west of Midtown include Bacchanalia, widely regarded as Atlanta’s best restaurant; Ormsby’s, a hit with the bar crowd; and JCT Kitchen and Bar, perfect for a family dinner. 1100-1210 Howell Mill Road, 404-872-7538, westsideprovisions.com

Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza Located just across from one another, these two malls offer everything a shopper could desire. For more upscale stores, try Phipps for Gucci, Prada, and Saks Fifth Avenue. For a wider variety, hit up Lenox for Armani Exchange, Banana Republic, and your local Apple store. Lenox Square: 3393 Peachtree Road, 404-233-6767; Phipps Plaza: 3500 Peachtree Road, 404-261-7910; both: simon.com

Little Five Points Known as Atlanta’s hipper, grungier neighborhood, Little Five probably has more thrift stores than any other neighborhood in the city. Swing by RagO-Rama, Psycho Sisters, and the Clothing Warehouse. littlefivepoints.net

The Midtown Mile Stroll up and down the famed Midtown Mile, which stretches along Peachtree Street from the Fox Theatre up to the High Museum. Its 750,000 square feet of street level retail space showcase great shops for those in need of some new high-quality furniture, including CB2 and Ligne Roset. midtownatl.com

The Shops Buckhead Atlanta After years of planning, Atlanta finally got its own high-end retail center www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 27

Piedmont Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

You can relive the excitement of the 1996 Olympic Games at the Atlanta History Center.

that can rival those found in other cities.

Some of the chicest international brands have opened up shop in Buckhead, including Dior, Hermes, and Jimmy Choo. 3035 Peachtree Road, 404-939-9290, theshopsbuckheadatlanta.com

its stature as “movie palace” back in the day. It’s now the best place in Atlanta to see Broadway shows on tour, including “The Wizard of Oz” this summer. 660 Peachtree Street, 404-881-2100, foxtheatre.org

High Museum of Art Atlanta’s premier art museum, the High’s ongoing permanent collection includes such French impressionists as Monet and Pissarro, and it is currently presenting an exhibit on work from children’s books illustrator Eric Carle. 1280 Peachtree Street, 404-733-4400, high.org

MUSIC, MOVIES, AND MORE Atlanta History Center

Alliance Theatre In the past, this organization has held the world premieres of such popular plays as Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple” and Elton John’s “Aida.”

This summer, it will produce a special interactive outer-space playscape for your children titled “Babies in Space.” 1280 Peachtree Street, 404-7334650, alliancetheatre.org

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Part of the elaborate Woodruff Arts Center, which also houses the High and the Alliance, our city’s orchestra highlights music from both the classic and current repertoire. This summer, you can come here to hear the works of Brahms and Copland along with David Bowie and the Eagles.

1280 Peachtree Street, 404-733-4900, atlantasymphony.org

The Fabulous Fox Theatre Launched in the 1920s, this historic landmark is famous for its soaring domes, gold-leaf details, and trompe l’oeil art, which rightly earned 28 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

The Plaza Theatre The city’s oldest operating and only independent cinema has been around since 1939.

Planning to see the new “Independence Day” sequel this June? Go local, and see it here in an atmosphere of vintage Hollywood style. 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue, 404-873-1939, plazaatlanta.com

FUN IN THE SUN The Atlanta BeltLine Once completed, the BeltLine will connect public parks and neighborhoods along a 22-mile rail corridor around the city proper. While uncompleted, various trails have already opened, including the Eastside Trail, which goes from Piedmont Park to Old Fourth Ward and is lined with public art. beltline.org

Atlanta Botanical Garden Enjoy the serene effects of immersing yourself in orchids from around the world or walking through a tropical rainforest, a desert or a Japanese garden. Check out the destination’s ongoing exhibit: Chihuly in the Garden, featuring works by internationally acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly. 1345 Piedmont Avenue, 404-876-5859, atlantabg.org

PHOTOS: (Top Left) TK; (Top Right) ©1996 Kevin C. Rose, AtlantaPhotos.com

As a new resident to Atlanta, you owe it to yourself to brush up on your new home’s history. Thankfully, this Buckhead museum has you covered. View Southern folk art, learn about the city’s role in the Civil War, and relive Atlanta’s own 1996 Olympic Games through tons of historic memorabilia. 130 West Paces Ferry Road, 404-814-4000, atlantahistorycenter.com

Exotic flamingos greet visitors at the entrance to Zoo Atlanta.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Chastain Park Amphitheatre Atlanta’s premier outdoor concert venue, Chastain Park is surrounded by plush greenery and twilight. This summer you can catch acts such as Steely Dan, Pat Benatar, and Kenny Rogers this June and July. 4469 Stella Drive, 404-733-5012, chastainseries.com

The newly reopened museum features everything necessary to start your child down a path toward deeper learning, including activities about robotics, language, and agriculture. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Centennial Olympic Park

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

A vestige of the city’s 1996 hosting of the Olympics, this Downtown park is central to both the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Relax, and don’t be afraid to get a little wet. 265 Park Avenue West, 404-223-4412, centennialpark.com

No child can resist the allure of dinosaurs, and the museum’s central plaza features a family of bronze dinosaurs ready to greet visitors upon arrival. Other exhibits include a look at life on the Georgia’s Okefenokee Swamp and one dedicated entirely to shells. 767 Clifton Road, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org

Dine Alfresco at Piedmont Park Nothing beats a hot summer afternoon on the green with the family, a blanket, and a hearty lunch amidst a park designed by the same man who created New York’s famed Central Park. 404-875-7275, piedmontpark.org

PHOTOS: (Top Right) © 2008 Kevin C. Rose, AtlantaPhotos. com; (Center) © Center for Puppetry Arts

Shooting the ’Hooch Rafting on Atlanta’s very own Chattahoochee River is affectionately called shooting the ’Hooch. Pack a cooler, load the family in a tube (no children under 5, though), and ride down the city’s major waterway. 770-6501008, shootthehooch.com

FOR THE KID INSIDE Center for Puppetry Arts Sign up your child for a Create-a-Puppet Workshop, and watch as their imaginations take flight. Afterwards, browse the museum to see original pieces from Jim Henson, “The Lion King” and “The Dark Crystal,” then see a performance, such as this summer’s “The Little Pirate Mermaid” or “Sleeping Beauty.” 1404 Spring Street, 404-873-3391, puppet.org

Georgia Aquarium Deemed the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere, this destination offers glimpses of dolphins, penguins, and sea otters—all in their natural habitats. You can even pet the stingrays. 225 Baker Street, 404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org

Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta Located on the top floor of Phipps, this spot boasts plenty for Lego enthusiasts to enjoy, including the Master Builder Academy, Pirate Adventure Island, and a chance to engage in a sequel of sorts to the hit Lego movie.

3500 Peachtree Road, 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Zoo Atlanta Of all the myriad species on display at our zoo in Grant Park—including leopards, ostriches and orangutans—the giant pandas never fail to delight. Zoo Atlanta is currently one of only four facilities to house these unique animals. Observe Lun Lun, Yang Yang and newborn twins Mei Lun and Mei Huan as they go about their daily lives in both indoor and outdoor habitats. 800 Cherokee Avenue, 404-624-5600, zooatlanta.org www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 29

Best Beaches

GEORGIA’S Five Fantastic Spots for Sun, Surf and Sand

By Hope S. Philbrick

From remote island escapes to sandy getaways near the big city, dog-friendly banks ideal for splashing into the surf and romantic shores ideal for watching sunsets, Georgia has a beach for every occasion. Make sure to include these sunny spots on your summer to-do list for a long weekend or beach vacation sure to leave you with sand in your toes and a smile on your face.

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PHOTOS: (Top) Courtesy of Callaway Gardens, www.callawaygardens.com; (Bottom Left) Lake Lanier Islands Resort.

TOP: Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens brings the fun of the beach to central Georgia. LEFT: Taking the plunge on LanierWorld’s water slide.

RIGHT: The Elijah Clark State Park beach is open for fun year-round.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort Located about an hour north of Atlanta, this sprawling resort is home to a half-mile stretch of white sand dubbed Big Beach. Lounge and get some sun, dig in the powdery sand or splash in the blue water secure in the knowledge that a lifeguard will keep watch. This 1,500-acre vacation spot, located on the 38,000-acre lake that gives the place its name, is Georgia’s most-visited lakeside resort.

The lakeside beach is only part of the fun: Get a wet adrenaline rush just steps away at the other attractions that make up LanierWorld, the resort’s water park. Thrills await kids of all ages, including nine waterslides, a raging river, flumes, a wave pool, a miniature golf course, beach volleyball courts, a ropes course and much more.

Beyond the beach and water park, enjoy horseback riding, golf, boating, biking, dining, hiking, partying and more. Accommodation options range from villas to campsites, cabins and even houseboats for literal overnights on the water. 770-945-8787, lakelanierislands.com.

Elijah Clark State Park On the western shores of Clarks Hill Lake on the border between Georgia and South Carolina is where you’ll find the white sand beach at Elijah

Clark State Park. Hugging the blue waters of this 71,000-acre lake—one of the largest in the Southeast—the beach is open year-round, although it’s most popular from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are two other state parks on the same lake, but this 447-acre retreat, its beach nestled under tall trees, is especially peaceful.

The lake’s cool water lures swimmers, water-skiers and boaters, who can launch from one of four ramps or rent a canoe. Fish for striper and largemouth bass from the pier, deepen your understanding of history touring a Revolutionary War-era cabin, or test your skills at archery, geocaching, hiking, miniature golf and shuffleboard. All state park beaches are free, so the whole family can enjoy a day at the beach for a $5 parking fee. Stay overnight in one of 20 cottages or camp in a tent, trailer or RV. 800-864-7275, gastateparks.org/elijahclark.

Robin Lake Beach The world’s largest manmade white sand beach loops a mile around the 65acre Robin Lake in Callaway Gardens, a 13,000-acre resort and preserve in Pine Mountain, Ga., about an hour and a half southwest of Atlanta. From June through early August, the lake serves as the hub of summer fun in middle Georgia. Lounge in the sun, splash into the water, or test your skills www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 31

at waterskiing, wakeboarding or just holding onto an inflated tube.

Miniature golf, ping pong, shuffleboard, giant chess and checker sets, a playground and more are included with general admission.

Other activities and amenities are available for an additional fee, including access to a floating playground of obstacles, Blaster Boats with water guns that can spray up to 50 feet, laser tag, cabanas and individual waterskiing lessons. Some activities require advance reservation.

800-852-3810, callawaygardens.com.

St. Simons Island

history with a variety of interactive exhibits.

For a regal experience, stay at the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America. Guests have been lured to this location since it first opened its doors in 1935 as a private dance club, drawn by its reputation for elegance and warm Southern hospitality. 843-757-9889, stsimonsisland.com.

PHOTO: Leigh Cort.

The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island sports four miles of beaches on its south side. During high tide, try kayaking, fishing or bird watching. Then run with your dog, nap on the soft sand or build sandcastles at low tide when retreating water expands the beach a couple of hundred yards, exposing sand bars and tidal pools.

The island also boasts a charming selection of boutiques, restaurants and historic sites. Built in 1872, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and keeper’s residence are Glynn County’s oldest surviving brick structures. The Maritime Center offers insight into the area’s natural, maritime and military

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efficient condos to quaint cottages to luxe mansions.

You can spend your entire stay lounging near the sea, or get up off that towel and discover what else Tybee Island has to offer. Charter a private eco-tour to explore the salt marsh that houses dozens of birds, turtles, dolphins, alligators, crabs and other creatures. Climb 178 steps to the top of the Tybee Island Light Station, a lighthouse that has guided sailors into the Savannah River since 1732. And see Fort Pulaski National Monument, where the brick walls were considered unbreachable until a two-day Civil War battle proved otherwise. Note that dogs are not allowed on the beach, since Tybee Island is an important nesting area for endangered sea turtles. tybeevisit.com.

FOUR MORE GEORGIA BEACHES

The Tybee Island Light Station is a striking landmark that dates to Georgia’s colonial past.

Tybee Island Just 20 minutes from Savannah’s Historic District, Tybee Island is the northeasternmost of Georgia’s barrier islands. The party is on South Beach, with its wide stretch of sand, a pier for dolphin watching, and nearby shops and restaurants. For a more private setting, live the dream of owning beachfront property and rent accommodations from Oceanfront Cottage Rentals or Tybee Vacation Rentals: Options that range from

Cumberland Island National Seashore is on the state’s largest and southernmost barrier island, which boasts 17 miles of pristine beaches and is home to wild horses. www.nps.gov/cuis.

Don Carter State Park is Georgia’s newest state park and the first located on 39,000-acre Lake Lanier. Situated on the north end of the reservoir, the park boasts a huge sand swimming beach. gastateparks.org.

Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is a camera-ready beach scattered with knobby, twisted tree trunks and root bulbs made gray by the sea.

It’s a great spot to look for seashells while taking a leisurely stroll. jekyllisland.com.

East Beach on St. Simons Island is an ideal spot for bodysurfing at high tide and napping on the soft sand at low tide, when the beach expands to a couple of hundred yards wide. goldenisles.com.

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 33

T hat’s Amore

Sample Atlanta’s Top Romantic Restaurants

By Muriel Vega & Jackson Reeves

You don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day or some other special occasion to enjoy a romantic meal. That’s especially true in Atlanta, which is filled with restaurants that are conducive to a night of amour. We’ve selected an eclectic mix of ideal date destinations, from fine-dining establishments to intimate neighborhood eateries. Whether you’re looking for a spectacular setting, an awe-inspiring view or simply a dark booth with dim lighting, you’re sure to find the right spot—and lots of delicious cuisine, as well.

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PHOTOS: (Top Right) The Reynolds Group; (Bottom Right) LuAnne DeMeo.

LEFT PAGE: Ray’s on the River.

RIGHT PAGE: (Top) Quail Three Ways at Bacchanalia; (Bottom) Aria’s glamorous new look.

Aria

Bocca Lupo

This longtime Buckhead staple opened its doors on May 2 to reveal a glamorous new look featuring white marble, antique mirrors, and opulent leather banquettes. It’s an elegant new setting for Chef Gerry Klaskala’s refined New American menu filled with such savory staples as certified Black Angus New York strip steak and pan-seared New Bedford sea scallops. The warm goat-cheese cheesecake is a favorite of many patrons, and the perfect dessert to split for two. 404-233-7673, aria-atl.com.

A relative newcomer on a quiet corner of Edgewood Avenue, Bocca Lupo is an Italian-American kitchen offering up authentic flavors with a subtle twist. This cozy space, dominated by neutral colors with wood and metal accents, is the perfect spot to share some wild mushroom kale kimchi pasta with a cocktail and a dessert of huckleberry panna cotta to wrap things up. Try the outdoor patio for extra ambiance. 404-577-2332, boccalupoatl.com.

Bacchanalia

King + Duke

This Midtown restaurant is consistently named one of the best in the city, and that recognition comes with high expectations. Fortunately, Bacchanalia meets those expectations. This former factory space mixes an industrial feel with understated elegance. The five-course, fixed-price menu ($85) features such expertly crafted dishes as crab fritter, beef tartare and ricotta dumplings, with many ingredients sourced from a local farm. 404-365-0410, starprovisions.com.

Recently ranked No. 5 on GQ magazine’s list of the nation’s best new restaurants, this Buckhead spot offers a stylishly casual space and a menu of seasonal, hearth-roasted fare. Take a seat near the restaurant’s centerpiece open hearth, in a private booth or on the patio, and enjoy such offerings as North Georgia trout, coffee-cured lamb shank or the Duke, a burger made of house-ground chuck and dry aged cuts. The mood lighting and www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 35

LEFT: (Top) The rustic interior of King + Duke; (Bottom) Goose egg and Country Ham from Wrecking Bar. RIGHT: Sun Dial offers a spectacular view of the city.

a glass from the extensive wine list and settle in for a night to remember.

770-955-1187, www.raysrestaurants.com/raysontheriver.

Sun Dial Restaurant This recently renovated landmark atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel boasts an unbeatable view of the Atlanta skyline. Attire is formal at dinner, to match the spectacular sights you’ll enjoy as the restaurant rotates 360 degrees. The menu of traditional and New American favorites revolves with the seasons, with such offerings as bone-in prime rib, roasted salmon and a Berkshire pork chop. 404-589-7506, sundialrestaurant.com.

Rathbun’s Chef Kevin Rathbun is an Atlanta institution, and one visit to his namesake restaurant will show you why. The décor is elegant without being fussily formal, perfect for a night of great food and conversation. The extensive menu features such skillfully prepared dishes as hot smoked salmon tostada, 20-ounce rib eye and charred corn with Gouda. 404-5248280, kevinrathbun.com

Ray’s on the River Situated on the Chattahoochee River in Sandy Springs, Ray’s on the River delivers an upscale dining experience for special occasions. Large windows offer beautiful views of the river, which diners enjoy while savoring such classic options as prime cut steaks and fresh seafood dishes. Order 36 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

Wisteria Located in a cozy space in historic Inman Park, Wisteria has been internationally recognized for its unique and contemporary twist on traditional Southern cooking. Tuck into the black-eyed pea hummus before enjoying Georgia coastal shrimp and grits or Pork Three Ways braised pork. Much of the menu is sustainably sourced from local and regional providers, and an extensive wine and cocktail list provides the perfect accompaniment.

404-525-3363, wisteria-atlanta.com.

Wrecking Bar Located in a memorable, early 20th-century house in Little Five Points, this brewpub offers a cozy, informal and somewhat rustic atmosphere with dim lighting, brick walls and a distressed wood bar. Pair items from the upscale pub food menu—like Riverview Farms pasture pork loin or pan-roasted Gulf snapper—with a well-crafted cocktail or one of nine craft beers brewed on-site. 404-221-2600,wreckingbarbrewpub.com.

PHOTOS: (Top Left) Andrew Thomas Lee.

quiet acoustics make this place great for conversation. 404-477-3500, kinganddukeatl.com.

38 40 47

GETTING STARTED

HERE TO THERE MARTA

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.

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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Driving Tips

MARTA Rail Service

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.georgianavigator.com.

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.

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 39

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION pUBLIC schools Bartow County Schools Board of Education: 770-606-5800 Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Career Academy Per-pupil expenditures: School & bus information

Bartow County

12 4 3 1 $8,311 770-606-5873

Tellus Science Museum ADAIRSVILLE

Avg. SAT Scores Bartow Co. Georgia National

1440 1452 1498

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

UTILITIES & CONTACTS Electricity City of Cartersville 770-387-5631 Georgia Power Company 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 Residential 770-382-9743 Water Bartow County Water 770-387-5170 Department AT&T Comcast

Cable TV 866-271-9724 800-266-2278

Hospitals Cartersville Medical Center 770-382-1530 Emory Heart & Vascular Center 404-778-8400

the county seat after nearby Cassville was largely destroyed by Union General William Sherman.

Located within the hills of North Georgia, Cartersville boasts several museums, including the Tellus Science Museum, the Booth Western Art Museum, the Rose Lawn Museum and the Bartow History Center. It is also home to the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, featuring prehistoric mounds dating back more than 1,000 years.

Natural attractions including Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park and the Pine Mountain Trail provide residents with outdoor recreation options and other familyfriendly activities.

Today, Cartersville boasts a population of more than 19,000 residents, and has its own school district made up of five schools, from pre-K to high school.

WHITE Originally named Cass County, BARTOW Bartow County was renamed after CARTERSVILLE Colonel Francis S. Bartow in 1861.

EMERSON Rich in Native American history, the county was created from part of Cherokee County in 1832.

The county saw great devastation during the Civil County www.bartowga.org The first Georgia War, which was especially Neighborhoods www.cityofcartersville.org town to be registered in tragic after the prosperous www.adairsvillega.net the National Register of antebellum period the area had Historic Places, Adairsville enjoyed. Union General William Schools www.bartow.k12.ga.us Sherman burned nearby Cassville, was named after Chief John Median household income: $49,060 the original county seat, to the Adair, a Scottish settler who Median age of residents: 35.6 ground in 1864; the county married a Cherokee Indian Population: 100,661 seat was moved in 1867 to girl. The Western and Sales tax: 7% Cartersville, where it remains.

Atlantic Railroad played Chamber of Commerce Though Cassville never a central part in the city’s 770-382-1466, www.cartersvillechamber.com recovered from the war, the growth in the mid-1800s, as Property Taxes county and Cartersville benefited local businesses flourished Per $1,000 of assessed value is: from the area’s natural resources around the depot. SixtyUnincorporated Bartow County, $27.73 and transportation. Mining and five miles from both Atlanta Cartersville, $30.73 agriculture became important and Chattanooga, the city Adairsville, $32.66 parts of the local economy along is perfect for an overnight Tax Commissioner: 770-387-5111 with textiles, corn and cotton. stay, especially at the .

Today, the county offers a Currently, the county employs a nearby Barnsley Gardens tight-knit community, with a great sole commissioner form of government, Resort, which offers spa treatments, school system and affordable housing. and is the largest county to have such a gardens, restaurants, golf and In addition to Cartersville, the county government in the state. Georgia is the beautiful English cottages sure to is also home to the cities of Adairsville, only remaining state to allow for sole take your breath away.

Kingston, Euharlee and Emerson. commissioner governments.

Adairsville is also an antiques Attractions include the Euharlee lover’s dream, with the Georgia Covered Bridge and History Museum, North Antique Mall and the 1902 the Noble Hill-Wheeler Memorial Stock Exchange shop both in the Center, the Civil War Museum in small downtown area. N Kingston, the world’s first Coca Cola outdoor advertisement and abundant For more counties and neighborhood Incorporated in 1850, Cartersville nature trails in such spots as Pine Top information, visit our Web site at is full of history. The city became Mountain and Red Top Mountain. www.newcomeratlanta.com

40 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

QUICK INFO

Neighborhoods

Cartersville

Adairsville

COUNTY INFORMATION

Cherokee County

EDUCATION public schools Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871

QUICK INFO

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

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

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,

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

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. Georgia National

1560 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 706-276-2362 Amicalola EMC 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.

Telephone AT&T 888-436-8638 ETC Communications 678-454-1212 TDS Telecom-Nelson 770-735-2000 Ball Ground 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

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

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 41

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

pUBLIC schools Cobb County Schools Board of Education 770-426-3300 71 25 16 6 6 4 $8,816

Marietta City Schools Board of Education

770-422-3500

Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Sixth-Grade Magnet Per-pupil expenditures School and bus information

7 1 1 1 1 $9,061 678-594-8000

Avg. SAT Scores

Cobb Co. Marietta City Georgia National

1534 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 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 AT&T 888-436-8638 Comcast 404-266-2278 MCI Worldcom 770-541-7235 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

White Water

Cobb County

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Magnet Charter Special Per-pupil expenditures

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 redistributed land once part small-town atmosphere and boasts County www.cobbcountyga.gov of the Cherokee Nation. abundant parks and green space, Neighborhoods www.austellga.org Named after Thomas exceptional recreational programs www.mariettaga.gov Welch Cobb, the county and top-notch schools, includwww.ci.smyrna.ga.us experienced a devastating ing Kennesaw State University. www.kennesaw-ga.gov setback during the Civil www.cityofpowdersprings.org Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown War when most of it was features shopping, dining and atSchools www.cobb.k12.ga.us destroyed during the Battle tractions such as the Smithsonianwww.marietta-city.org at Kennesaw Mountain. affiliated Southern Museum of Median household income: $65,123 Today, Cobb County, Civil War and Locomotive History, 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% est-growing counties in the tional Battlefield Park.

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 delivers an amazing sense of style fers a quality of life unsurand love of life. The new Market passed in the Southeast. More 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 Galleria area. amidst urban settings. According to 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.

42 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

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Smyrna

COUNTY INFORMATION

DeKalb County

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

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 The county seat of DeKalb, Decatur is a charming historic city known for its recreation and pedestrian-friendly streets. Its beating heart

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.

EDUCATION pUBLIC schools DeKalb County Schools Board of Education 678-676-1200 Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Per-pupil expenditures School & bus information

83 20 20 $9,896 678-676-1300

City Schools of Decatur Board of Education

404-370-4400

Early Learning Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Per-pupil expenditures School & bus information

1 4 1 1 $13,444 404-370-8737

Avg. SAT Scores DeKalb Co. City of Decatur Georgia National

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

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

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 syswww.druidhills.org tem. Five major road arwww.dunwoodyga.org teries traverse the county: www.candlerpark.org Interstates 20, 85, 285, www.stonemountaincity.org 675 and US Highway 78. www.dekalb.k12.ga.us Schools Hartsfield-Jackson Interwww.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 DeKalb Peachtree Air- Population: 739,956 Sales 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 biomedical commu- The property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for unincorporated 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.

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

1334 1577 1460 1509

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

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 43

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fayette County Schools Board of Education 770-460-3535

Avg. SAT Scores

Fayette Co. Georgia National

1550 1431 1483

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

UTILITIES & CONTACTS HOME SERVICES ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company 888-660-5890 Coweta-Fayette EMC 770-253-5626 GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated.

For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE AT&T Residential

888-757-6500

WATER Fayette County Water 770-461-1146 Comcast

CABLE TV 404-266-2278

HOSPITALS Fayette Care Clinic 770-719-4620 Piedmont Fayette Hospital 770-719-7000

Fayetteville

Old-fashioned community pride mingles with a progressive sensibility on the streets of historic downtown Fayetteville, where antique stores and boutiques sit side by side in refurbished buildings.

Boasting a population of approximately 16,000 residents, Fayetteville is home to the Fayette County Historic Society, Research Center and Museum. A haven for family fun, Dixieland Fun Park offers an assortment of activities for young and old alike. The HollidayDorsey-Fife Museum provides a fascinating link to the past thanks to its association with several historical figures, including Margaret Mitchell and "Doc" Holliday. The 1,500-seat Southern Ground Amphitheater attracts national touring acts with its annual summer concert series.

17 6 5 1 1 $8,359 770-460-3520 Photo: Courtesy of the City of Fayetteville

Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Alternative Open Campus Per-pupil expenditures School & bus information

Fayette County

Neighborhoods

Starr's Mill in Fayetteville

Located southwest of Atlanta, the land comprising Fayette County was ceded from the Creek Indian Nation in 1821, thus creating Georgia’s 49th county. The county seat, the city of Fayetteville, was established in 1823 and contains the oldest courthouse in the County www.fayettecounty.ga.gov state, built in 1825 and located Neighborhoods www.fayetteville-ga.gov The area now known on Fayetteville’s historic town www.peachtree-city.org as Peachtree City was square. Both the county and city Schools www.fcboe.org originally settled by were named for the Marquis de Woodland Era Indians LaFayette, who fought alongside Median household income: $82,216 Median age of residents: 42.4 several thousand years ago, George Washington in the Population: 107,104 and ceded to the Federal Revolutionary War. Sales tax: 6% government in 1821 by Author Margaret Mitchell Chamber of Commerce Chief William McIntosh, Jr. spent many summers at her 770-461-9983, www.fayettechamber.org Comprising some grandfather’s home in Fayette 12,000 acres, Peachtree County, which helped to inspire Property Taxes Per $1,000 of assessed value is: City was chartered in the locations in her novel Gone With Unincorporated Fayette County, $30.70; 1950s as a masterplanned the Wind.

Fayetteville, $31.64; community of five separate Today, the 199-square mile Peachtree City, $34.54. villages. Today, the area area is renowned as a thriving Tax Commissioner: 770-461-3611 is linked by a 90- mile economic center that features network of trails and golf numerous attractive incentives for businesses, including the 2,200From 1984 to 1994, Fayette cart paths connecting homes, acre Peachtree City Industrial Park, County was the fifth-fastest growing businesses, schools and parks. Gol carts, bicycles and walking are the which features its own Foreign Trade county in the U.S. Zone, which allows merchandise to Fayette County boasts several preferred modes of transportation enter from or exit to foreign countries golf courses and two amphitheaters, among its 35,000 residents, who without a formal U.S. Customs entry among other attractions serving a enjoy its wooded scenery and or payment of duties. In addition, family-oriented population of more wealth of parks, playgrounds and Fayette County maintains a rural, than 106,000 residents. Single-family recreational areas. N . small-town allure, and has been housing in Fayette County ranges For more counties and neighborhood recognized as one of the nation’s from the $50,000s in moderateinformation, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com most attractive communities for income areas to more than $2 million corporate family relocation. in affluent neighborhoods.

44 || Newcomer | www.newcomeratlanta.com NewcomerMagazine Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

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Peachtree City

COUNTY INFORMATION

Fulton County

EDUCATION

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development.

Fulton County serves as the filled with high-rises, upscale center of the metro Atlanta area. restaurants, the Governor’s With 90 percent of the city of At- Mansion, the historic Swan lanta, including the state’s capital House and the Atlanta Hisbuilding, located within its borders, tory Center. it sits at the hub of the area’s finanBuckhead is also an cial, transportation, retail, commu- entertainment and dinnications and cultural services. A ing hotspot. With more number of Fortune 500 companies, than 200 restaurants, bars including the Coca-Cola Company, shops and luxury hoDelta Air Lines and UPS, are head- tels, the Buckhead quartered here. area is a magMore than 970,000 people live net for young in Fulton County, drawn by its con- professionals. venience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in Downtown Atlanta skyline the county is $246,200.

Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighOne of metro Atlanta’s borhoods, including its busCounty www.co.fulton.ga.us most vibrant and affluent tling downtown district. Older Neighborhoods www.alpharetta.ga.us cities, Alpharetta is home neighborhoods like Inman www.buckhead.net to approximately 62,000 Park, Grant Park, Candler Park www.virginiahighland.com residents, according to and Virginia-Highland offer afwww.eastpointcity.org 2012 U.S. Census Bureau fordable housing, pedestrianwww.collegeparkga.com estimates. They're drawn friendly layouts and plentiful www.hapeville.org to its mix of big-city vitalparks and recreational options. www.roswellgov.com ity and small-town charm, Midtown Atlanta is the heart of www.sandyspringsga.org as well as its many ameniAtlanta’s cultural scene, with the www.fultonschools.org Schools ties and affordable housWoodruff Arts Center (home to www.atlanta.k12.ga.us ing options. Homes range the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Median household income: $57,664 from large apartment comSymphony Orchestra and the Median age of residents: 34 munities to elegant subHigh Museum of Art) and the Population: 977,773 Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8% divisions, with a median historic Fox Theatre, as well as value of $324,300. a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Chamber of Commerce Alpharetta offers a vaPiedmont Park, the city’s most Greater North Fulton riety of parks and outdoor popular green space, hosts many 770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.com Metro Atlanta attractions, including the outdoor festivals and concerts.

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 Buckhead is “where old area boasts an appealing Fulton County; $41.60 for unincorporated Fulton money lives and new money town square surrounded County; $33.75 for Johns Creek; $33.86 for Sandy parties,” according to the Atby restaurants and shops.

Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100 lanta Journal-Constitution. With The Verizon Wireless Amits mixture of mansions and phitheatre hosts big-name uniquely styled homes, Buckhead The neighborhood also offers numerconcerts each summer. N is a favorite among architecture and ous antique stores, art galleries and For more counties and neighborhood history buffs. Convenient to Georgia mall shopping at Lenox Square and information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s Phipps Plaza..

QUICK INFO

Neighborhoods

Buckhead

Alpharetta

pUBLIC schools Fulton County Schools Board of Education 404-768-3600 Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Charter Centers Per-pupil expenditures

58 19 17 8 4 $9,561

Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education

404-802-3500

Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Charter Alternative Per-pupil expenditures: School & bus information:

52 14 20 15 6 $13,069 404-802-5500

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 City of College Park 404-669-3759 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.

AT&T Comcast

Telephone 866-271-9724 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 at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500 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

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 45

COUNTY INFORMATION pUBLIC schools Gwinnett County Schools Board of Education: 678-301-6000 Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Alternative Open Campus Per-pupil expenditures:

72 24 20 6 1 $8,338

City Schools of Buford Board of Education:

770-945-5035

Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Academy Per-pupil expenditures

1 1 1 1 $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 770-945-6761 City of Buford City of Lawrenceville 770-963-2414 770-448-2122 City of Norcross Georgia Power 404-395-7611 Jackson EMC 770-963-6166 770-887-2363 Sawnee EMC 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 Dacula Gwinnett City Water Lawrenceville Norcross

770-889-4600 770-963-7451 678-376-6800 770-963-2414 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 770-822-2200 for Behavorial Health

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 easy access While the county was 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 and forests, today it is home to dous growth, from 2,000 www.duluthga.net more than 245 international residents in 1990 to www.snellville.org companies and 450 high-tech more than 10,000 today. www.suwanee.com firms. With an average of 260 To help manage growth, Schools www.bufordcityschools.org new professional and industrial the city has developed www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us companies relocating to the a comprehensive developMedian household income: $64,005 county each year, attracting more ment plan that promotes Median age of residents: 33 than 6,000 new jobs, Gwinnett pedestrian-oriented dePopulation: 789,499 County remains in the top 10 velopment and mixedSales tax: 6% ranking for growth nationwide. use zoning. Designated Chamber of Commerce The county supports many a Tree City USA for more Gwinnett County cultural events, restaurants than 10 years, the city 770-232-3000, www.gwinnettchamber.org and shopping opportunities, is committed to preserving Property Taxes including the Mall of Georgia.

27 percent of its land as The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett Gwinnett County remains green space.

County is $31.77 per $1,000 of assessed value. affordable for renters and firstSuch foresight has Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800. time home buyers, many of whom allowed Suwanee to retain 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

46 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

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www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 47

upcomingEVENTS

The Breakfast Club, Duluth Town Green The Atlanta-based ’80s tribute band performs as part of the Summer Stage Concert series.

July 9, www.duluthga.net.

Chihuly in the Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden

PHOTO: Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Chihuly in the Garden

Flight of the Conchords, Chastain Park Amphitheatre The New Zealand comedy-music duo known for its HBO television series performs. July 12, 404-233-2227, www.chastainseries.com.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Atlanta Lyric Theatre presents a high-energy staging of the hit musical from Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. July 15-17, 800-745-3000, www.cobbenergycentre.com.

Exhibits & Events First Friday, Downtown Gainesville

Theater & Concerts A Prairie Home Companion, Fox Theatre Attend a live taping of the popular National Public Radio program hosted by Garrison Keillor. June 4, 855-285-8499, www.foxtheatre.org.

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Enjoy free live music courtesy of the Dave Anderson Band, plus great food and drinks from the many restaurants along the square. June 3,

The group that inspired the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys” and known for such hits as “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry” performs. June 19, 800-745-3000,

www.gainesville.org.

www.cobbenergycentre.com.

11th Annual Wing & Rock Festival, Etowah River Park

The Grammy Award-winning legend behind such songs as “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You,” performs. June 4, 770-626-2464,

Kenny Rogers, Chastain Park Amphitheatre The pop and country singer known for such hits as “The Gambler” and “Lucille” performs.

This free, family-friendly event has moved to a new location in Canton, Ga., but still features the same great-tasting chicken wings with bold sauces, rocking live music, arts and crafts and children’s activities. June 4-5,

www.infiniteenergycenter.com.

June 19, 404-233-2227, www.chastainseries.com.

www.wingandrockfest.com.

Harry Connick Jr., Chastain Park Amphitheatre

“Weird Al” Yankovic, Fox Theatre

Citizens Police Academy, Suwanee

The singer-songwriter, actor and “American Idol” judge performs. June 11, 404-233-2227,

The Grammy Award-winning parodist returns to Atlanta to promote his 2014 No. 1 album “Mandatory Fun.” June 19, 855-285-8499,

www.chastainseries.com.

www.foxtheatre.org.

Yacht Rock Revue, Duluth Town Green

Steely Dan, Chastain Park Amphitheatre

Get a hands-on glimpse of life behind the badge as Suwanee police officers share what it’s like to serve and protect in this 10-week program.

Notarized applications are due Thursday, June 2 at 5 p.m.; applications are available at www. suwanee.com. June 6-Aug. 15, www.suwanee.com.

The popular Atlanta tribute act performs classic light rock hits of the 1970s as part of the Summer Stage Concert series. June 11,

The classic rock combo performs. Steve Winwood opens the show. June 26, 404-233-2227,

Dolly Parton, Infinite Energy Arena

www.chastainseries.com.

www.duluthga.net.

The animated comedy screens as part of the Hapeville Movie Nights series. June 17,

Happy Together Tour, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

404-669-2136, www.hapeville.org.

Enchantment Under the Sea, Hoyt Smith Recreation Center

The Turtles Featuring Flo & Eddie headline this nostalgic revue of acts from the 1960s and ’70s, which also includes Chuck Negron (formerly of Three Dog Night), Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, Mark Lindsay (formerly of Paul Revere and the Raiders), the Cowsills and the Spencer Davis Group Starring Spencer Davis. June 13, 800-745-3000, www.cobbenergycentre.com.

Norm of the North, Hapeville Football Stadium

Daughters get free admission to this fatherdaughter dance. (Admission is $10 for dads.)

June 18, 404-669-2136, www.hapeville.org.

Ant-Man, Hapeville Football Stadium 2nd Annual Beach Bash, Downtown Gainesville

48 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

The 2015 superhero action film screens as part

Frida and Diego: Passion, Politics, and Painting, High Museum of Art

of the Hapeville Movie Nights series. July 15,

“Jurassic World” and “Cinderella”. Fridays

404-669-2136, www.hapeville.org.

through October, www.duluthga.net.

2nd Annual Beach Bash, Downtown Gainesville

The Art of Eric Carle, High Museum of Art

Bring your shades and shorts to this beachtastic event! Frolic in 60 tons of sand and kick back to great music while enjoying fine dining from downtown restaurants. July 1, www.gainesville.org.

Duluth Celebrates America, Duluth Town Green Enjoy rocking bands and a fantastic fireworks display, not to mention food trucks, children’s activities, giveaways and more, at this Independence Day celebration. July 3, www.duluthga.net.

This exhibit explores the art of the famous children’s book author and illustrator, with more than 80 works from throughout his career. Through Jan. 8, 2017, 404-733-5000, www.high.org.

The LEGO Movie 4D: A New Adventure, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Your favorite LEGO Movie characters reunite in this brand-new story, which you can only see at LEGOLAND Discovery Centers!

Ongoing, 404-848-9252, www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

Michael Naranjo: The Artist Who Sees With His Hands, Booth Western Art Museum

Pirate Adventure Island, LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Michael Naranjo lost his eyesight in Vietnam, and his right hand was severely wounded. Despite these limitations, he has created more than 100 sculptures. This exhibit surveys more than 30 works from throughout his career.

Construct your own pirate ship and set sail through an aquatic obstacle course at this exciting new attraction! Ongoing, 404-848-9252,

Through July 3, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.

Celebrate Braselton, Downtown Braselton Celebrate the Fourth of July with live music, food and vendors, a parade (with an outstanding member of the military chosen as grand marshal) and a spectacular fireworks display.

July 4, www.downtownbraselton.com.

Farmer’s Market, Downtown Gainesville Every Friday, browse and purchase fresh, locally grown produce and products for every taste.

Through October 2, www.gainesville.org.

Chihuly in the Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden Twelve years after its first blockbuster showing, this fine art exhibit returns, featuring 21 sculptural installation sites showcasing glass artist Dale Chihuly’s colorful, visually stunning work. Through October 30, www.atlantabg.org.

Suwanee Food Truck Fridays, Town Center Park This popular event returns, with great food and live music. There will be no Food Truck Friday in July. Through September, www.suwanee.com.

Fridays N Duluth, Duluth Town Green Enjoy a free block party every Friday in historic downtown Duluth, with live music, food trucks and more. The Flicks on the Bricks movie series screens popular movies like

www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

A Short Drive Away North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival, Young Harris This festive, family-friendly event features live music, more than 50 arts and crafts booths, and, of course, plenty of great seafood, all at Mayors Park in downtown Young Harris, Ga. June 3-5, www.northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com.

South Carolina Peach Festival, Gaffney, S.C. Recognized as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast in July by the Southeast Tourism Society, this festival offers something for everyone, including a dessert contest, a new talent showcase, a golf tournament, a peacheating contest, a barbecue cook-off, a parade and much more over two weekends. July 8-23, www.scpeachfestival.net.

Carolina Panthers Training Camp, Spartanburg, S.C. Watch the Atlanta Falcons’ divisional rivals, fresh off their appearance in Super Bowl 50, prepare for the upcoming season at Wofford College at a camp ranked in the league’s top five for fan friendliness. Special events are planned each year in conjunction with camp; check the website for details and updates.

Late July through August, www.panthers.com.

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 49

hiddenATLANTA

Piedmont Park I

n major cities, people often need a respite from the hustle and bustle—someplace green where residents and visitors alike can relax in the open air and feel at one with nature. In New York City, that place is Central Park; in Chicago, it’s Lake Michigan; in Atlanta, it’s Piedmont Park.

Located in Midtown and bordered by Piedmont

by Carly Felton and Sheila Cosgrove Avenue and 10th Street, Piedmont Park is the place where Atlantans go on weekends. In fact, this 189-acre oasis is one of the most-visited locations in metro Atlanta, with more than 3.5 million visitors each year.

Piedmont Park offers a number of green, wide-open spaces for picnicking, sunbathing and relaxing.

A paved jogging trail leads visitors around the park through rolling hills, past Lake Clara Meer, tennis courts, an off-leash dog park and more. The park also boasts soccer and softball fields, a gazebo, a children’s playground and an aquatic center, among other amenities. The aquatic center swimming pool is open until Labor Day and season pool passes are available.

As if those features and facilities weren’t enough, the park also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Dogwood Festival, the Atlanta Pride Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, the Piedmont Park Arts Festival, the Music Midtown music festival and the Atlanta Street Food Festival.

Another Piedmont Park staple is the Green Market, which hosts local farmers, bakers and other vendors, as well as classes and workshops. The 2016 Green Market is held each Saturday until December 10 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. inside the 12th Street and Piedmont Avenue NE park entrance.

Piedmont Park’s status as the jewel of Atlanta’s green crown is enhanced by its proximity to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which is adjacent to the park, and the Atlanta Beltline, a 22-mile former railway corridor that circles much of the city, forming a system of trails, parks, green spaces and other developments.

The park is maintained by the Piedmont Park Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and preserving the park. The Conservancy has overseen a number of renovation projects that have upgraded the park’s facilities and expanded its footprint, which opened new sections in 2011 and 2013. Larger and more popular than ever, Piedmont Park continues to serve as one of Atlanta’s leading attractions.

Piedmont Park is located at 1320 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30306. For more information, visit piedmontpark.org or call 404-875-7275.

50 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

PHOTO: © 2014, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

Atlanta’s Popular Retreat

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