Brookhaven Reporter - January 2024

Brookhaven Reporter A

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JANUARY 2024 Vol. 16 No. 1 ■ RoughDraftAtlanta.com

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2024 METRO New Fulton Jail

4

GA Power Rate Hike

4

SANDY SPRINGS Art Center

6

BUCKHEAD Garden Hills Apartments

8

BROOKHAVEN Election Results

10

Property Purchase

10

DUNWOODY FBI Sting

12

Dino House

12

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

28

20 Under 20

14

Education Briefs

27

Children Read

28

SUSTAINABILITY Above the Waterline

30

SILVER STREAK Garden Steward Honored

31

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

31

36

Atlanta Intown A

Publication

Reporter Newspapers A

Publication

Editorial

Published By

Collin Kelley Editor

Rough Draft Atlanta Keith Pepper Publisher keith@roughdraftatlanta.com

Sammie Purcell Associate Editor

Neal Maziar Chief Revenue Officer neal@roughdraftatlanta.com

Staff Writers Dyana Bagby Cathy Cobbs

Rico Figliolini Creative Director

Bob Pepalis Logan C. Ritchie Contributors Cory Atkinson, Sally Bethea, Kathy Dean, Kristina Ferdinand, Isadora Pennington, Sarah Pierre, Katie Rice, Clare Richie, Stephanie Saputo, Dave Williams

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Georgia Film Academy

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MLK Art & Film Celebration

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Women + Wine

34

In The Spirit

35

REAL ESTATE 2024 Home Forecast

36

South Downtown Sold

38

ABOUT THE COVER The Naidu siblings – Arjun, Anjini and Urvini – from The West Minister Schools are 20 Under 20 honorees for 2024. Read more about the remarkable students and their accomplishments starting on Page 14.

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JANUARY 2024 |

3

METRO New Fulton County Jail could cost $2 billion, according to study

By Bob Pepalis

JANUARY HAPPENINGS

Unless otherwise noted, all meetings are held at Tucker City Hall, 1975 Lakeside Pkwy, Ste 350B, Tucker, GA 30084

JANUARY 1 All City Buildings will be closed in observance of

New Year’s Day

JANUARY 2, 6:30 P.M.

Downtown Development Authority Meeting

JANUARY 8, 5:30 P.M.

Special Called Meeting for Swearing-In of New Council and City Manager 7 P.M. - Regular City Council Meeting

JANUARY 15

All City Buildings will be closed in observance of the Birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

JANUARY 16, 7 P.M.

University of Government Affairs Tucker

JANUARY 18, 7 P.M.

Planning Commission

JANUARY 22, 7 P.M. City Council Meeting

t k tuckerga.gov 4 | JANUARY 2024

A new Fulton County Jail facility constructed on the current Rice Street site in Atlanta could cost up to $2 billion, according to a feasibility study presented to the Fulton County Commission in December.

The commission heard a staff proposal that the county enter a taxexempt public-private partnership to design, build, finance, and maintain the new jail at a total annual cost of $114 million for 30 years. The feasibility study also projected an increase in what it costs to operate the jail by 24.9 percent from 2028 to 2031, rising from $211 million to $264 million.

Funding for the new jail construction would come through a local option sales tax and/or a millage rate increase, according to the study.

The new jail would have 4,416 beds, with 89 percent dedicated to men, according to the feasibility study. It would be 3.9 times bigger than the existing jail, with almost 1.8 million square feet of space.

The county would need to relocate its vehicle maintenance, accountability court, and the Jefferson Place homeless shelter to make room for the new jail. The existing jail would remain standing and in use until the new jail was brought online in 2029.

Commissioner Bob Ellis said he thought the proposed jail was too big and too expensive. He said financing the jail through sales tax would require getting a referendum put on the ballot through the state legislature. Ellis said the project shouldn’t move forward before financing is in place.

Commissioner Dana Barrett said the idea of waiting to see if a sales tax is approved didn’t seem tenable and the board should move ahead so a delay doesn’t cost the county more.

“Yes, we do everything we can to get a sales tax, but I think we have to acknowledge that if we are not able to get a sales tax, we will have to raise the millage rate. And if we can’t say that out loud, we’re not going to get there,” she said.

Commissioner Natalie Hall said the feasibility study captured what solves the problems inside the building, which she said are the wraparound programs and services, and the state-of-the-art mental health and medical housing that supports treatment and recovery.

Those programs will include substance use disorder treatment, intervention, and counseling, mental health treatment, reentry services for housing and employment, social services, healthcare, and transportation.

They also include education, vocational skills, faith- and culture-based services, and a library for recreational and legal research use.

Rate increase to pay for Plant Vogtle expansion

By Dave Williams Georgia energy regulators unanimously approved a plan in December to let Georgia Power pass on to customers almost $7.6 billion of its costs in building two additional nuclear reactors at Plant Vogtle.

The Atlanta-based utility agreed in August to reduce the costs it was asking the state Public Service Commission (PSC) to declare “reasonable and prudent” by about $2.6 billion after years of delays and cost overruns that more than doubled the price tag from the $14 billion the commission authorized back in 2009.

The first of the new reactor units at the plant south of Augusta went into service at the end of July. The second is due to follow by the end of March. The project will increase the average residential customer’s bill by $8.95 per month.

Commissioner Lauren “Bubba” McDonald, the only member of the PSC who was on the board in 2009, acknowledged the difficulties the project has faced during the last 14 years.

“It has been a journey,” McDonald said. “(But) for the first time in 34 years in America, a nuclear plant has been built. …

We suffered the pain, but we’re also going to enjoy the benefit.”

“The Vogtle … nuclear expansion project represents a long-term investment for our 2.7 million customers and Georgia, providing clean, safe, reliable, and emission-free energy for decades to come,” Georgia Power added in a statement.

Nuclear Watch South, one of the environmental organizations opposed to the agreement, said the rate increase for Plant Vogtle is one of several Georgia Power has received during the past year.

“The smart money knows nuclear energy is a bad investment,” said Stephen Wing, a member of Nuclear Watch South’s Board of Directors. “Yet the profit on that investments goes to Georgia Power shareholders … while we get stuck with a 26% rate hike to cover the project’s construction mistakes, on top of three other rate hikes in the past year alone.”

This story comes to Rough Draft via a media partnership with Capitol Beat.

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JANUARY 2024 |

5

SANDY SPRINGS City council approves contract for modular art studio A rendering of Veterans Park.

A modular art studio will be installed after the stone house is demolished on the Abernathy Arts Center property.

(Courtesy Atelier 7 Architects)

By Bob Pepalis

SUPPORT FOR THE EXHIBITION

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Sandy Springs City Council approved contracts for $581,644 that will pay to demolish the stone buildings at Abernathy Arts Center property and replace them with a modular art studio enabling the return of pottery classes.

The council approved paying Atelier 7 Architects just under $290,000 to install the temporary, modular building in the same area as the existing stone house during its meeting on Dec. 5. The firm will incorporate the existing kiln on the site at 254 Johnson Ferry Road with its building that will contain another kiln.

Art Sandy Springs, which has been contracted by the city to operate art classes at Abernathy Arts Center, projects an additional 325 new students and 70 new summer campers as a result of the return of pottery classes. Classes will be offered mornings, after school, and evenings Tuesday through Friday, Dave Wells, director of Facilities/Capital Construction and Building Operations, said during the meeting.

The city had hired Menefee Architecture to assess the Stone Arts Building and Stone Garage, Wells said. The firm found structural issues with the building foundation, walls, joists and beams, settlement cracks, and outdated electrical, plumbing, and

mechanical components. It also has traces of asbestos and lead paint. Neither building was compliant with Americans with Disabilities Standards for Accessible Design (ADA) regulations.

The city council budgeted $1 million in January 2022 for the Abernathy Arts Center Improvements Project, and $933,326 remains in the budget.

Tony Pope, co-founder of Atelier 7 Architects, said the 1,200-squarefoot modular structure is made of four units and can be placed on the site for temporary use. It can then be relocated and given another use. The structure has a 50-year lifespan, he said.

City Manager Eden Freeman said staff anticipates that the temporary modular art studio building would be in use for about five years, giving staff time to conduct the master site plan process, get feedback from the public, and have conversations with the city council on how to fund it. She said they expect it would take several years to get that funding.

Wells said another nearby project on the Abernathy Arts Center property will be Burnett Park, a beautification project to create a pocket park just southeast of Burnett Drive. The Public Works Department will start work in late winter or early spring on creating that small, separate outdoor public space.

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The original stone house on the Abernathy Arts Center property will be demolished, but its stone will be repurposed. (Photo by Bob Pepalis) ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

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JANUARY 2024 |

7

BUCKHEAD City council denies rezoning for upscale townhomes

The historic apartment home at 71 Sheridan Drive in Buckhead’s Garden Hills has been spared for now. (Photo by Dyana Bagby)

By Dyana Bagby

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The Atlanta City Council denied a homebuilder’s plan to tear down a sixunit apartment building and replace it with upscale townhomes in Buckhead’s Garden Hills neighborhood.

The council voted 12-0 at its Dec. 4 meeting to deny Atlanta-based Hedgewood Homes’ rezoning request for 71 Sheridan Drive NE. The developer sought to rezone the property, owned by its partner Silver Creek Redevelopment, so it could raze the apartment building and redevelop the site with three highend townhomes.

Neighborhood Planning Unit B members voted against the proposed development last month following months of discussions with the developer. Members expressed many concerns about the planned new project, including that it would eliminate affordable housing in affluent Buckhead.

Rents at 71 Sheridan Drive average $1,500 per month. Hedgewood Homes estimated its new townhomes would cost roughly $1 million each.

The city’s Zoning Review Board also voted to deny recommending Hedgewood Homes’ rezoning request despite the city’s planning staff recommending approval. Last week, the

council’s zoning committee voted against recommending approval for the project.

Representatives from Hedgewood Homes could not be reached for comment.

The planned townhomes at 71 Sheridan Drive were to be combined with Hedgewood Homes’ project approved two years ago. That project includes demolishing three low-rise multifamily residences at 77, 81, and 87 Sheridan Drive to build a dozen townhomes and single-family homes.

The cost of these new homes is estimated to be between $750,000 to $1.2 million.

Hedgewood Homes is the same developer behind the controversial Delmont Drive project.

The developer demolished most of the Delmont Townhomes at 69 Delmont Drive, a circa-1940s complex with onsite owners and renters. Hedgewood Homes is now building 35 luxury townhomes on the property that is adjacent to Sheridan Drive. The development, named Delmont by Hedgewood, shows home listings well over $1 million.

The Delmont Drive project was criticized by some for depleting affordable housing in Buckhead, where home prices soar well over $1 million in many areas and rents continue to climb.

Join us today, and let's craft a future filled with prosperity, growth, and boundless opportunities. perimeterchamber.com A rendering of the townhome community Hedgewood Homes wanted to build at 71 Sheridan.

8 | JANUARY 2024

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ESTAMPAS DE LA RAZA NOV 1 - JAN 31

Come experience this

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NO REGISTRATION NECESSARY For more information, call

W HERE KIDS SING, DANCE, CREATE, & IM AGINE

FREE ADMISSION

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www. Lauderhills.com JANUARY 2024 |

9

BROOKHAVEN For more Brookhaven headlines, subscribe to our daily newsletter at RoughDraftAtlanta.com/newsletters.

Park elected mayor, Diaz wins council seat

By Logan C. Ritchie Former city council member John Park defeated challenger Lauren Kiefer in the Brookhaven mayoral runoff election on Dec. 5.

Park will succeed his longtime friend Mayor John Ernst, who has reached his eight-year term limit. Park is the first Asian American mayor in Georgia.

In the District 1 city council race, Michael Diaz pulled out a win over incumbent Linley Jones.

Park, who has lived in the city since 2007, served as District 2 city council member for nine years, leaving his position in August to run for mayor. He is a technical consultant with the Centers

John Park

for Disease Control.

Park called the campaign “long and tough.”

“Our victory is proof that hard work and unwavering commitment to the people will always win in Brookhaven.

Together, we will fully realize our vision of Brookhaven as a safe haven of greenspaces and a community of character,” said Park.

“As a first-generation immigrant, I’m so humbled to make history by becoming the first AAPI Mayor in Georgia, and I’m grateful to our entire Brookhaven community for your faith and support in achieving this significant milestone.”

The mayor-elect said he never imagined as an “awkward Asian American kid playing pick-up basketball” at Decatur High School he would become the first Asian American Mayor in Georgia.

Kiefer has recently served as the first chair of the Brookhaven Arts and Culture Commission and the interim president of the Peachtree Creek Greenway. She’s a small business owner who moved to Brookhaven in 2020.

Kiefer said the campaign was “one of the most rewarding experiences” of her life.

“It has been my highest honor to stand as a candidate for office and I am proud of

the campaign we ran, one of integrity and focused on the issues that matter most to our city,” Kiefer said. “While the outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, I encourage everyone to stay engaged, to continue to support the city we all love, and to work together with our elected officials to ensure Brookhaven reaches its full potential. The energy, passion, and commitment we’ve seen will not dissipate but will continue to drive us all in our endeavors to contribute to our community’s well-being.”

Kiefer added: “From the bottom of my heart, I’m sincerely grateful for every ounce of support. The peoples’ spirit and drive have been a beacon of hope, and they light the way toward a bright future for Brookhaven.”

Turnout was low for the runoff that made headlines across metro Atlanta. Only 2,031 ballots were cast for mayor during the early voting period, Nov. 26-Dec. 1.

Fewer than 1,000 ballots were cast for District 1 city council during early voting.

Brookhaven spends $9M to buy former farm on Osborne Road

By Logan C. Ritchie

MLK Day Dinner & Celebration Mon., Jan. 15, 5 p.m., Lynwood Park 3360 Osborne Rd. Tickets $10; 404-637-0542 City Council & Board Meetings, 4362 Peachtree Rd NE Wednesday, Jan. 3 Planning Commission 7 p.m. (5:30 p.m. work session) Monday, Jan. 8 City Council Swearing In 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 9 City Council 7 p.m. (4 p.m. work session)

Wednesday, Jan. 10 Arts & Culture Commission 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 17 Board of Appeals 7 p.m. (5:30 p.m. work session) Tuesday, Jan. 23 City Council 7 p.m. (4 p.m. work session) Saturday, Jan. 27 City Council Advance 8 a.m. (4000 Summit Blvd.)

Updates & more info at www.BrookhavenGA.gov/Calendar 10 | JANUARY 2024

November 2022 to change the zoning to R-75 (residential).

During the executive session, Brookhaven City Council also voted to enter a settlement agreement with Multiplex LLC over the redevelopment of Skyland Park. The agreement states that Brookhaven will pay Multiplex $550,000

by Dec. 21, 2023.

In June 2017, Brookhaven negotiated a land swap with the DeKalb County School District for the construction of a new park and John Lewis Elementary School. The city claimed Multiplex was late delivering the park project, causing residents to visit parks outside of their neighborhood.

Seven acres of land on Osborne Road have been purchased by the city of Brookhaven for $9 million from SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funds.

The deal was announced after city council members returned from executive session during the Dec. 6 meeting.

The purchase of the property is for “public purposes,” according to the agreement.

Formerly known as Morrison Farms, located at 3068, 3074, and 3086 Osborne Road, the land was a plant nursery established in the 1970s. St. Martin’s Episcopal School considered buying the land in 2022 for athletic fields, but backed out for “purely economical” reasons.

When St. Martin’s planned to build a gymnasium and playing fields on the lot, Lynwood neighbors fought the deal, arguing that a sports facility would bring trash and noise.

The city of Brookhaven bought the former The city of Morrison Farms property on Osborne Road.

Brookhaven voted in

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

MARTIN LUTHER

KING JR DAY

Dinner & Celebration Mon, Jan 15, 5 p.m.

Historic Lynwood Park 3360 Osborne Road $10 (Call 404-637-0542 for ticket information.)

Live Performances Guest Speakers Giveaways Dinner

Please join me for a special dinner on this MLK Day as we celebrate the very special history of the Lynwood Park neighborhood and the legacy of the Lynwood Trailblazers, those residents who attended the segregated Lynwood School, now the Lynwood Rec Center, and were among the first students to integrate the DeKalb County School System from right here in Lynwood Park

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

JANUARY 2024 |

11

DUNWOODY For more Dunwoody headlines, subscribe to our daily newsletter at RoughDraftAtlanta.com/newsletters.

FBI sting thwarts robbery of Dunwoody jewelry store

By Cathy Cobbs The FBI, assisted by both Sandy Springs and Dunwoody police, have thwarted a long-planned robbery of Jewelry Artisans in Perimeter Center.

The FBI was tightlipped about the Dec. 1 sting operation, saying only that “multiple arrests” were made.

“All I can say right now is that the FBI was present at that location conducting a court-authorized law enforcement activity,” FBI Public Affairs Representative Tony Thomas said. “There were multiple arrests. We will update you if we get any more information to share.”

Jewelry Artisan’s owner Jamie Kresl

said he was made aware Nov. 27 that his establishment was being cased for a major robbery. Yesterday, officers confirmed to him that the event was to take place today.

Kresl told his staff to stay at home and he followed his usual routine of opening the store shortly before 10 a.m.

“I opened up, turned on the lights and started putting items in the showcase like I always do,” he said. “Right after 10 a.m., I heard two loud booms, saw a bunch of billowing smoke, and then there was law enforcement everywhere.”

Kresl estimated that more than 40 officers from various agencies were involved in the sting operation, and that the suspects had been planning

A picture posted on Facebook’s Dunwoody Area Community Forum, a public page, shows the aftermath of the sting operation. (Courtesy Dunwoody Area Community Forum)

dunwoodyga.gov | 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody GA 30338 | 678.382.6700

January 15

January Highlights

4 Zoning Board of Appeals Palooza Saturday: 6 Puppet Wish Tales City Hall | 6 p.m.

Stage Door Theatre | 10:30 a.m.

City 8 Dunwoody Council Meeting City Hall | 6 p.m.

Art 9 Dunwoody Commission Meeting City Hall | 7:30 a.m.

Planning Commission Meeting City Hall | 6 p.m.

Committee 11 Sustainability Meeting City Hall | 8 a.m.

13

Dunwoody Farmers Market - SEASON OPENING

Dunwoody Sustainability Committee Dunwoody Nature Center

Authority 18 Development Meeting City Hall | 5 p.m.

20 Game Night

Dunwoody Preservation Trust N. Shallowford Annex 5 - 10 p.m.

History Alive

Dunwoody Preservation Trust Donaldson-Bannister Farm | 9:30 a.m.

City 22 Dunwoody Council Meeting

Dunwoody High School | 6 p.m.

26 The Mad Hatterpillar World Premiere Stage Door Theatre

Brook Run Park | 9 a.m. - noon

Master Gardener Talk: Companion Planting

Dunwoody Community Greenhouse Brook Run Park | 11 a.m.

15

17 Green Speak: Stormwater

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service locations throughout the City

12 | JANUARY 2024

Register here

Green

SPEAK

DUNWOODY SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE

January 17

the robbery for “quite some time.”

While he didn’t get a look at any of the suspects, he believes that four people were apprehended.

“This wasn’t a run-of-the-mill operation by these guys (the suspects),” he said. “It’s my understanding that they were armed, and that they had been casing my store for a while.”

Kresl said he barely slept the night before.

“I had a pit in my stomach and I was really nervous,” he said. “I’m just so grateful that nobody got hurt and that they never entered the store.”

Kresl said he was unsure of the manner

in which the perpetrators were planning to rob the store, but assumed it would be “some sort of smash-and-grab.”

Kresl said he is in awe of the work that the law enforcement agencies did to ensure that the suspects were caught in a timely fashion, with a minimum of drama.

“I can’t tell you what a top-notch job these people did,” he said. “I can’t praise them enough.”

He also thanked all those who supported him and offered prayers during the ordeal.

Dunwoody Police Sgt. Mike Cheek referred all questions regarding the incident to the FBI.

City council discusses text amendment for inflatables

By Cathy Cobbs The Dunwoody City Council will consider a text amendment in January that would allow Dunwoody’s Dino House to escape extinction.

The panel discussed and held a public hearing on Dec. 11 about a text amendment to an existing sign ordinance that would allow residences to erect inflatables for up to 60 consecutive days.

Several council members asked about one stipulation of the modification that dictated that the inflatables must be taken down after that 60-day period for 60 days before they can be reinstalled.

However, Paul Leonhardt, the Deputy Director of Community Development, said that as long as the displays are changed out, a resident can have the displays up without interruption.

Councilman Tom Lambert asked a rhetorical question – if he wanted to put up an inflatable pumpkin during Halloween, then take it down and replace it the next day with a turkey, and after taking that down, install a Christmas tree – whether that would comply.

Leonhardt replied that as long as the display is changed, it would be allowed.

Mayor Lynn Deutsch questioned the 60-day stipulation in the ordinance, ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

but Leonhardt said the language was inserted in order to allow for compliance enforcement.

City attorney Ken Bernard admitted that the text change wasn’t perfect, but “this is a narrow field we are going down to address a specific concern.”

During the public hearing on the amendment, nobody spoke in either support or against the amendment.

The yard in question, owned by Lisa and Cesar Torres, has for several years featured themed- inflatable dinosaurs that were lauded as a beacon of hope to many Dunwoody residents. A single emailed ccomplaing forced the city to notify the Torres family that the installation was in violation of its sign code, but the city twice delayed the deadline for their demise while they considered changes to the ordinance.

“The proposed regulations allow residents in the R- and RA-districts (Single-dwelling Residential) to display animated signs for up to 60 consecutive days, subject to several restrictions, including maximum dimensions, property line setbacks, and safety standards,” Leonhardt’s memo said. “Animated signs on quasipublic and institutional properties remain prohibited. No permit would be required, similar to typical yard signs.”

The memo states that the Dunwoody Planning Commission approved the amendment 5-1, with Erika Harris voting against the motion because she wanted “quasi-public and institutional uses, such as places of worship to display animated signs.”

The Dunwoody Dino House (Courtesy of the Torres Family).

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

ART & FILM CELEBRATION MONDAY, JANUARY 15, 2024 AT 1 PM

SANDY SPRINGS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: BYERS THEATRE LOBBY

CITYSPRINGS.COM/MLK Event is free to attend.

Food and drink available for purchase.

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

JANUARY 2024 |

13

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

SPECIAL SECTION

Arjun, Anjini, and Urvini Naidu on The Westminster Schools campus. (Photo by Isadora Pennington)

Rough Draft presents our annual 20 Under 20 honorees for 2024. As in past years, we are in awe of these students’ abilities to juggle their education while giving back to the community in such meaningful ways. From creating nonprofits and fundraising to creating podcasts and donating 650 pairs of shoes to children in need, this year’s honorees have gone above and beyond to bring positivity and leadership to metro Atlanta. While narrowing down this year’s honorees and runners-up was more arduous than ever, we think these students will inspire and motivate you to give back to your communities.

– Collin Kelley 14 | JANUARY 2024

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At Mount Vernon, learning is amplified through real-world problem solving. Students are empowered to explore, discover, learn, design, create, and effect change.

The Mount Vernon School prepares learners and leaders from Preschool to Grade 12 to be impact ready.

Graduates go on to attend some of the most prestigious colleges and universities including Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Morehouse, Stanford, the US Naval Academy, Wake Forest, Yale, and many more.

Plan Your Visit

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www.mountvernonschool.org

the agency and autonomy to explore, discover, and act on what is meaningful to self and consequential to others

Join us for a small group tour. Schedule yours today.

JANUARY 2024 |

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T Anjini Naidu, 16 The Westminster Schools

16 | JANUARY 2024

Arjun Naidu, 16 The Westminster Schools

Urvini Naidu, 14 The Westminster Schools

HE Naidu siblings co-founded and operate Auraa Designs, a nonprofit business selling jewelry to support children and families battling cancer and autism. Aside from their collaborative effort, the Naidus have separate pursuits as well. Arjun has volunteered for Odyssey of the Mind, serves as Student Government President, and serves on the Georgia Works Students Advisory Board, among others. Anjini is the executive director of Circle of Women and Presidentelect of the girlFriends board for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and also volunteers for Odyssey of the Mind. Urvini is student government president at Westminster, active in Girl Scouts, and a girlFriends board member and student member of Circle of Women. Like her older siblings, Urvini also volunteers with Odyssey of the Mind, while also tutoring at Kumon and Agape.

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YLIE chairs the Girl UP Club, which collected over 14,000 personal care items to donate to underserved girls and women in metro Atlanta. As an aspiring astronaut, she has challenged herself academically, but also beyond Lovett's classroom. She actively tries to bridge the gap for young women in STEM by giving presentations and recently served as a mistress of ceremonies for the annual LEGO League Robotics Showcase. “I am the President and founder of the Lovett School Girl UP Club. Over the past three years through my organization, I conducted annual feminine care drives, collecting Rylie Tatum, 17 feminine hygiene products which I transport The Lovett School to local schools, pantries, women's shelters, and other donation centers,” Rylie said. “My efforts have culminated in donating around 18,000 products and therefore impacting around 4,000 girls and women in the Atlanta metro area.”

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N 2022, Ryan created the nonprofit GearTogether using soccer as a way to bring communities together. Last summer, Ryan partnered with Friends of Refugees, initiating a soccer program at the Summer Youth Experience and leading over 100 kids through various team-building and soccer activities. Additionally, Ryan also partnered with the soccer organization TYSA to donate two high-quality soccer goals to the Friends of Refugees program. He also helped to create the Atlanta branch of PingPongParkinson, a global movement aimed toward suppressing the progression of Parkinson’s through ping pong. “Change doesn’t have Ryan Dong, 17 to come rapidly, but change requires a The Paideia School start and a beginning for improvement to happen,” he said. “Community service is an action that may not have grand effects immediately, but impacting even one person is always greatly rewarding in the long term.”

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OR her senior project with the Daniel Zalik Academy, Sidney is collaborating with Wish for WASH to create menstrual health kits, proactively addressing period poverty among local teens.

She’s also leading a school-wide effort with the Period Project to provide feminine hygiene supplies to schools in need and is actively seeking ways to advocate against the luxury tax on these essential products through her work with Georgia STOMP. "My English teacher, Ms. Corinne Skott, recently said something to my class: She sees us not only as who we are today but also as who we'll be tomorrow,” Sidney Sidney Parker, 17 said. “I think that'll stick with me for the The Weber School rest of my life – the belief that if you aren't who you want to be today, keep working and putting in the effort so that when tomorrow eventually comes, you can look back on today with pride."

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In a culture swayed by confusion, we instill confidence.

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A classical Christian school serving PreK-12th grade

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OU might have seen Collin on the local news after he donated 650 pairs of athletic shoes to every student at Lake Forest Elementary School last year. To raise money for the shoes, Collin and his cohorts spent more than 500 hours organizing and hosting a 5k charity race, Cocoa Classic, with 390 registered runners. The event raised more than $18,000. Although Collin organized the fundraising event as his Eagle Scout project, he plans to make the 5k an annual event. The second annual Cocoa Classic (runcocoaclassic.com) is set for February. You might also see Collin at the Community Assistance Center in Sandy Collin Maher, 17 Springs, where he regularly volunteers at The Mount Vernon School the food bank. "Personal achievement, for me, is the ability to uplift others,” Collin said. “Not just community involvement but community impact, which is a strong belief I have when shaping intentions and morals.”

L paceacademy.org/admissions

CONNECTING LEARNING TO LIFE AT EVERY LEVEL

AUREN has devoted much of her time to connecting Westminster students to La Amistad, the nonprofit organization that provides Latino students and their families with academic and life enrichment programs. She helped orchestrate several events with La Amistad, such as a field trip to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and movie nights. Lauren also created the student group, ¡Educación para todos, that provides other opportunities for her peers to volunteer their time with La Amistad.

In addition, Lauren is a bilingual volunteer with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and a Civic Engagement Fellow helping connect Lauren Foglesong, 16 fellow students with partners for comThe Westminster Schools munity initiatives. "Working with students through the La Amistad program has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Lauren said. “Over the past three years, as an after-school tutor, I have seen the immense academic progress of a group of primary school students; I am grateful to be part of their journey.”

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RYONNE’S list of volunteer activities is extensive, including founding the upperclassman Ignite Mentorship program and serving as a student ambassador, tutor, and church Youth Director.

Most notably, Aryonne has created and produced the weekly “Ari Talks” podcast, which seeks “to help people of my generation see themselves outside of what is normally accepted, such as hypersexual culture, closeted religion, and promotion of herd mentality.” Her podcast is aimed at youth between the ages of 13 to 19.

Topics focus on teens’ growth in relationships with self, God, and the people around them. “As a writer and podcaster, I am happy to say so many people have poured into me and my journey,” Aryonne said.

“My way of giving back is authentically pouring into others.”

18 | JANUARY 2024

Aryonne Fears, 17 Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School

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Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive

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RACE established her own foundation, A Touch of Grace, which focuses on aiding women and children in need. Projects have included organizing coat and blanket drives, collecting backpacks and school supplies, providing Christmas presents for kids, and assembling toiletry kits for adults. She said her unwavering determination to ensure that all donations reach various charitable organizations in Atlanta, such as Atlanta Mission, My Sister's House, and Atlanta Children's Shelter.

Grace also devotes her time to engaging with other organizations including Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Girls Supporting Grace Novascone,16 Girls, Habitat for Humanity, and leading Marist School campus ministry retreats. "I think sometimes teens think they are too young to make a difference, but I disagree,” Grace said. “If you can help even one person, then your efforts matter. My message to anyone reading this is to get involved – little or big – but share your time and talents.”

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MAR witnessed firsthand the public transportation crisis in his native Uganda, especially during the pandemic when the country was on lockdown. He created the Bicycle Project and reached out to different organizations for financial help to buy and donate bicycles to the neediest. After winning numerous financial awards, Omar founded Bomlee's Bicycles, which became part of the Ugandan Transportation and Mobility Initiative. Omar has helped distribute 40 bicycles and two motorcycles, impacting three communities with this project that all began in his 10th-grade year. “Attending a local school Omar Jingo, 17 in Uganda during my formative years Atlanta International School provided me with invaluable educational experiences and insight into global socioeconomic disparities,” Omar said.

“I'm driven by the desire to give back to other warm, nurturing communities like this school, recognizing how much it has shaped me and consistently given me so much to be thankful for.”

Gabby Mautner, 18 Pace Academy

Ellie Arenth, 18 Pace Academy

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ZRA has been an advocate for change through her work with the Ohio-based non-profit Justice for Keith LaMar and her creation of the Justice for Keith LaMar Youth Advocates. LaMar is a wrongfully convicted Black man held in solitary confinement for the past 28 years on Ohio's death row. Ezra has corresponded with and met LaMar several times and has been inspired by his plight and courage.

Ezra worked with a team to gain LeMar a temporary stay of execution in November.

They are determined to continue the fight to see his conviction overturned. Ezra has also been involved with theater, mock Ezra Yeboah, 17 trial, and orchestra, and other clubs of Atlanta International School interest like the Black Student Union and the Gay Straight Alliance. “I am inspired by the activists who've come before me. They taught me the value of action; that the time is now,” Ezra said. “I believe we should strive to extend empathy to people we are taught to hate – our division benefits systems of power, and we are stronger together."

20 | JANUARY 2024

Dana Cohn, 17 and Leah Ren Taube,17 Riverwood International Charter School ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

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OR the past three years, the seniors have run the school’s Bloom Closet club, an organization that supports The Bloom Closet, which provides a unique shopping experience for children in foster care. The club’s twiceannual clothing drives have become highlights of Pace’s calendar, with families across the school taking part.

Ellie and Gabby have not only picked up the mantle from past Bloom club leaders but have continued to grow the effort at Pace, including coordinating a sock hop benefitting The Bloom Closet. “After watching my sister, Leah, volunteer with the Bloom Closet, I knew that I wanted to follow in her footsteps,” Gabby said.

“Bloom has been an important part of my life for the past six years, and I have loved giving the Pace community the opportunity to give back in an important and meaningful way.

Ellie agreed, calling The Bloom Closet a “vital organization” for Georgia. “It not only provides services to foster families but also creates a community in which they feel welcomed and supported,” Ellie said. “I am so grateful to the Pace community for helping me and all the volunteers that make the Bloom Closet what it is.”

REGISTER NOW FOR OUR 2024 OPEN HOUSE EVENTS

Upper School – Wednesday, January 17 Lower School – Wednesday, January 24

EXPLORE WHY YOUR NEIGHBORS CHOOSE GAC. Congrats to Ivy Holland (GAC ‘24) for winning 20 Under 20 Award and to Stephen Michael Phillips (GAC ‘25), selected as runner up!

VISIT GAC

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HE Riverwood seniors created an outdoor garden curriculum for Lake Forest Elementary School and implemented lessons in the garden with students in 2023 which will continue this year. English is a second language for most Lake Forest students, and officials said the garden experience created by Dana and Leah has been invaluable for developing science skills and gaining new vocabulary through experiences. Dana has also been a regular volunteer in the after-school program at Sandy Springs Mission and participated in Leadership Sandy Springs as well as Creating Connected Communities. Leah has volunteered at Creating Connected Communities and at several health-promoting local businesses including Strive Foods, The Peachtree Road Farmers Market, and TURN Studios.

A DIFFERENT APPROACH

makes all the difference

REDISCOVER THE JOY OF LEARNING Our different approach to teaching is backed by research and science, and has been successful for over 73 years. howardschool.org

CONGRATULATIONS TO TRUMAN GEPHARDT ’24 photographed above with campers from Horizons Atlanta

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JANUARY 2024 |

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S founder of DermaTeens, an international nonprofit dedicated to educating teens on skin health and sun safety, Ellis led a team of over 45 teenagers from around the world in publishing 100 medically reviewed articles related to skin, skin health, and health equity. As a Volunteer and Project Coordinator with IMPACT Melanoma, a national non-profit, Ellis collaborated with the South Fork Conservancy and the DeKalb County Parks & Rec Department to fund and install a dozen public sunscreen dispensers across the county, including Zonolite Park. “My Ellis Schroeder, 17 skin cancer and public health service efforts are Druid Hills High School a reflection of the support, inspiration, and passion of those all around me,” Ellis said. “None of these efforts would have been possible without my parents and mentor figures. I believe that making a difference relies on the value of collaboration and connection with others.”

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nspired by his connection with Josie Hull, a formerly conjoined twin, Michael launched Atlanta's teen chapter of Once Upon a Room in 2021. The nonprofit’s mission is to enrich the lives of pediatric patients suffering serious illnesses and trauma, through hospital room makeovers. As president, Michael has led his team in raising over $20,000, supporting over 15 hospital room makeovers, primarily in partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. For his Eagle Scout project, Michael continued with the children theme, building shelves to organize donated goods for the Center for Safe Michael Doller, 18 and Healthy Children, a nonprofit supportThe Lovett School ing abused kids. “Far and away the most important and impactful project I have been a part of is Once Upon a Room,” Michael said. “I’m humbled by the brave patients we serve and proud to be a part of an organization committed to lifting the spirits of children who are suffering.”

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ierra organized an event at the Midtown MARTA station to honor the victims of the Kramatorsk train station attack in Ukraine after a missile strike during the Russian invasion. She also leads Midtown Votes, a chapter of the national organization When We All Vote, to engage students in voting initiatives by hosting forums for school board candidates and spearheading registration events. Sierra said it’s part of her pursuit of inclusive civic participation and education among her peers. Serving as the Fulton County Youth Commissioner vice chair for the past two years, Sierra champions crucial youth-centric initiatives, having received the prestigious U.S. Presidential Service Achievement Award for her contributions. Sierra is also a standout journalist for The Southerner, Midtown High’s student newspaper.

Sierra Pape, 16 Midtown High School

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ira is the founder of Drift the Map, a series of free walks aimed at expanding Atlantans’ knowledge of their historic city. She also drafted the land acknowledgment statement adopted by the Freedom Park Conservancy, recognizing the Indigenous people’s homeland, those who later fought to protect the neighborhoods around the park when they were threatened with demolition to build a highway, and to honor The Carter Center. Mira also spearheads the Midtown High initiative, Cranes for Peace, aimed at bringing the student body together and creating serenity. So far, students have Mira Silverman, 16 folded over 500 cranes and placed them Midtown High School around the campus. “What I think is most important to me is branching outside of your circle,” Mira said. “Being indoors and curating your own circle is perpetually unchanging; when you’re actually outside and there are things that surprise you and catch your eye, you suddenly see the world in a very colorful light.”

22 | JANUARY 2024

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Learning should be an

Adventure!

girls

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TAKE THE

Beyond high school readiness, our rich and rigorous program inspires students to be positive change makers and lifelong learners.

Join us for our Open House Sunday, February 11 2-4 p.m.

Visit our website to register.

Individual tours by appointment.

Age 3 through Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School

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Join us for Open House on Saturday, January 20! &

Grades 6 - 12

atlantagirlsschool.org/visit

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A

S part of the school's Amnesty International club, Carlota reached out to Amnesty International and coordinated an educational event aimed at promoting awareness of women's sexual and reproductive rights. She established a partnership with Planned Parenthood and successfully organized a Zoom event to further educate the community as well as organizing a reproductive rights educational event at Olive & Pine, Carlota also took the initiative to establish Green Academe, a volunteer-based, student-led group that organized a clothing swap for the Decatur community and which proCarlota De Luna Garza, 17 motes recycling and sustainable practices.

Academe of the Oaks "Each project I've undertaken has shed light on different issues, and contributing to my community brings immense fulfillment,” Carlota said. Witnessing our community unite—parents, students, and teachers alike—to support various causes has been truly amazing."

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VY was a two-term president of the Buckhead Atlanta chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc., the national nonprofit that works to stimulate the growth and development of children.

She has also given countless hours to Meals on Wheels, Nicholas House, and Ronald McDonald House. She was awarded the Lumiere scholarship to conduct research on the harmful effects of THC in adolescence in conjunction with Yale University. She’s also a virtual National Security Language Initiative Youth (NSLI-Y) Mandarin student through the American Council. With her education and experience in research, Ivy plans to create programs for physicians to Ivy Noel Holland, 18 work in various communities nationwide Greater Atlanta Christian School and abroad. “In life, we must strive to be our absolute best. However, that doesn't demand perfection, only giving your utmost effort,” Ivy said. ‘Using your gifts and talents to walk the path God has created for you. There is no other copy, you were created to be you."

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FTER discovering the nonprofit World of Change, which provides essentials to support children and families with the collection of spare change, during summer camp, Maelyn decided to bring the program to Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs. Recently, the change collected during Sunday School was donated to the Israel Defense Fund. She also established a fundraiser through the Jewish National Fund and Alexander Muss High School in Israel to support the war, meeting her goal of $1,000 in two weeks. She was also recently accepted to Atlanta Leaders for Tomorrow, which empowers students to become Jewish leaders and advocates in Atlanta and beyond. Maelyn also works with the nonprofit Friendship Circle of Atlanta and Creating Connected Communities, among other endeavors. “My passion for serving Maelyn Alexander, 17 the Atlanta community as a volunteer will continue throughout college and as an adult,” Maelyn said.

Woodward Academy

Our joyand and Our students st udent s ffind ind joy purpose in learning by doing.

Guided by our distinctive approach to whole child education, Lovett faculty immerse students in intellectually rigorous, hands-on learning environments that spark character development, individual passions, and social awareness.

By design, we offer students the experiences that deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social skills, while inspiring an enduring enthusiasm for learning.

Learn more at lovett.org

LIVE IT. LEARN IT. 4075 Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30327 (404) 262-3032

24 | JANUARY 2024

Braden Gill, 17 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

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RADEN led his junior class to build the first ever Holy Innocents’ Habitat for Humanity Home.

Braden spearheaded the build with his team raising more than $125,000 and gathering 300 volunteers to spend nine weeks building a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home for a family. The build began on Aug. 12 and was completed on Oct. 14th. The fundraising for the build began in the fall of 2022 with a Habitat Club Logo designed by Braden. Students gathered for multiple meetings to promote peer-to-peer online fundraising and asked family members and friends to support the cause. A Bears Brunch was hosted last spring to bring families together to kick off the efforts. A Mellow Mushroom giveback night was also organized. The home now belongs to a young mother and her two daughters with a 0% interest mortgage thanks to the efforts of Braden and his team.

leading whole child educ

Read more and share at RoughDraftAtlanta.com ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

From Pre-K through 12th grade, creating opportunities for each child to thrive is THE

WOODWARD WAY

100% of our students earn acceptances to four-year colleges and universities.

woodward.edu/visit

Our Foundation Explore Academic Curiosity Critical Thinking Lifelong Learners

Belong Community Respect Social Events

Balance Passions Academics Family Time

Succeed Achieve Impact the World Be True to Themselves

1934 Cliff Valley Way | Atlanta, GA 30329 • 404.458.5160 • capstoneacademy.com ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

JANUARY 2024 |

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Runners-Up

Tomorrow calls for a new kind of leader.

Lula Greene, 17

Elizabeth Hodges, 18

Academe of the Oaks

Wesleyan School

From volunteering at local daycare centers and summer camps to creating a school business to raise funds for international students in need, Lula is a busy junior.

Elizabeth volunteers with Hand in Hand, a club that allows high school students to tutor lower school students. She was the sole high school student chosen to intern at the Atlanta Office of the City Solicitor this past summer.

Elizabeth McCall, 17 Marist School Elizabeth dedicates her time to projects such as combating food insecurity at community food pantries and organizing programs to help mothers and siblings cope after the loss of a child.

Tomorrow calls for a new kind of leader.

Truman Gephardt, 17 The Howard School A steadfast volunteer at Horizons Atlanta at Holy Innocents' Episcopal School, Truman was one of 40 high school students selected to participate in Youth Leadership Sandy Springs.

Every day, we connect bright, curious students with a community of support and opportunities that awaken their aspirations so that they can lead positive change in the world.

Learn more at westminster.net

Kamari Carter, 17

WESTMINSTER

The Lovett School

Love. Challenge. Lead. Change.

1424 West Paces Ferry Road, NW | Atlanta, Georgia 30327

As the two-year vice president of Lovett’s Girl Up Atlanta chapter, she co-led its Period Poverty Product Drive which collected over 2,550 units.

Elizabeth Cohen, 18

18 MONTHS – 8TH GRADE

Capstone Academy On top of her extensive work within Capstone, Elizabeth has also found time to found and manage the Run for the Rhinos group, a one-mile fun run organized to raise money for a rhino sanctuary.

Maya Chopra, 16 The Mount Vernon School

In addition to her passion for dance, Maya started her own jewelry business, Maya Anjali Designs, which has raised over $500 to date for the Ovarian Cancer Society.

Samuel Kuran, 17 North Springs High School

Springmont’s authentic Montessori experience balances academic learning with social/emotional well-being.

Highly experienced and caring teachers guide individualized learning that inspires students to become creative, independent 1963-2023 and globally-minded.

Tours by Appointment Applications due Feb. 1 404.252.3910 www.springmont.com 26 | JANUARY 2024

CELEBRATING

Samuel was the National Grand Prize Winner of the “Your Voice is Power” coding competition sponsored by Pharrell William’s nonprofit YELLOW, Amazon Future Engineer, and Georgia Tech. The competition encourages the creation of music through code to promote entrepreneurship and social equity.

Olivia Grove, 17 Chamblee High School Since she first began training with the City Springs Theatre Company’s Conservatory in Sandy Springs two years ago, Olivia has shown exceptional talent as a performer and as a leader among her peers.

Stephen Michael Phillips, 17 Greater Atlanta Christian School Stephen volunteers with Project Kids Eat at Campus Church of Christ, providing essential meals to children in local extended-stay hotels who might go hungry without these lunches.

Zaara Khawaja, 17 Woodward Academy As the liaison to Project Downtown ATL, Zaara spearheaded the creation of more than 1,000 hygiene kits to support Atlanta’s homeless population.

Sara Nikhil Deshpande, 17 Decatur High School Sara started and leads the STAR program at Decatur High (Students Talk About Race). From that came about the organization Asian Student Union. She also leads the Sidekicks program for the school district where seniors interact with elementary students to create a feeling of inclusivity.

Noah Benz, 17 Pace Academy Noah has been running his own businesses since 12, published a book at 16, and currently leads the creation of a virtual reality portal aimed at promoting free access to education, on-demand internships, workshops, and library tours from anywhere in the world.

Addison Genovese, 17 Riverwood International Charter School As president of Riverwood’s Best Buddies club, Addison has helped grow the club to 150 students, who host monthly social events for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities and offers advocacy training opportunities.

George Williams, 18 The Westminster Schools George overhauled the library at the Agape Youth and Family Center and created a collection with more than 400 brand new books with main characters of color, so students could see themselves in books.

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

Education Briefs Atlanta International School (AIS) has finalized the purchase of the 25-acre campus of the former Brandon Hall School in Sandy Springs, which closed in May. The additional property, located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, will more than double AIS’s physical footprint. The new acreage will enable the school to expand its academic offerings, according to a press release.

Two Georgia students were selected as 2024 Rhodes Scholars. Mariah Cady, a senior at the University of Georgia, and Madison Jennings, a senior at Agnes Scott College, are among 32 students from across the country picked for the prestigious honor, announced Saturday. The students will pursue graduate degrees at Oxford University in England starting in October, with the scholarship paying for all costs.

Two Atlanta nonprofits, Inspiredu and Raising Expectations, will launch Connect 404, a Digital Navigator program thanks to $110,000 in grants from Comcast.

Through Connect 404, the organizations will help residents get connected to the internet and access digital skills training programs to advance digital equity for Georgians.

Atlanta Girls’ School (AGS) is celebrating Humanities teacher, Cara Reese, and science teacher, Melissa Hankinson, for being named by the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) as Teachers of the Year. They were named Middle School Teacher of the Year and Upper School Teacher of the Year, respectively. Reese and Hankinson were chosen for this honor amongst nominees from 172 independent schools throughout the State of Georgia.

Breakthrough Atlanta’s eighth annual FundA-Scholar event raised more than $445k, which will cover 150 student scholarships in 2024. More than 400 people came together to support Fund-A-Scholar, which raises critical funds for underserved students to attend Breakthrough Atlanta’s educational programs.

For more than 27 years, Breakthrough Atlanta has funded academic and personal programs for more than 2,500 students and nearly 600 teaching fellows. “Through our six-year, year-round tuition-free programming, we give youth the tools to break through barriers like education disparities, under-resourced schools, teacher shortages, and self-doubt, equipping them to become leaders, educators, and agents of change in their communities,” said Monique Shields, Breakthrough Atlanta Chief Executive Officer.

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THE JOY OF LEARNING 3K - 12 @aischool

aischool.org

2023.12.15_AISAd_RoughDraftAtlanta_4.94x6.185_DEC.indd 1

12/15/23 2:30 PM

Applications Due

JANUARY 22

Learn. Lead. Serve.

Serving grades 7–12, Marist School provides an unparalleled Catholic education where achievement exists within a spirit of humility and generosity. Students are challenged by a college-preparatory curriculum and enjoy extensive extracurricular activities as well as opportunities to deepen their faith. The distinctive Marist educational experience forms students into faith-filled, global-ready servant leaders.

LEARN MORE AT:

marist.com/admissions JANUARY 2024 |

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Need a New Year’s resolution? Host a book drive for Children Read

A recent book drive at the Goddard School in Vinings.

Children Read provided books for students at Doraville United Elementary

By Clare S. Richie As of early JANUARY 2024, Children Read has distributed 153,458 Pre-K children’s books to families in need.

“Books that are donated to us go directly into the hands of children to increase their literacy and love for

books,” said Cindy Jaret, Children Read president and a retired pre-kindergarten teacher.

Sixty-one percent of families with low incomes have no children’s books in the home. This lack of early exposure to books is one of the biggest obstacles to literacy and to later school success. Sadly,

those who are poor readers in third grade will likely remain so in high school.

Children Read seeks to overcome this obstacle by giving a child eight books for their home library. The nonprofit collects and repairs gently used and new books for ages birth to 5 and volunteer readers deliver them to Title 1 Pre-Ks in DeKalb

Start at Trinity,

thrive for life.

Serving children age three through Sixth Grade, Trinity School is Atlanta’s only elementary-only independent school. We have cherished childhood while preparing our students for the future since 1951!

Start your child’s journey today. trinityatl.org/admissions

Applications are due January 19!

28 | JANUARY 2024

County Schools (DCSD) and Atlanta Public Schools (APS) and to Head Start and Sheltering Arms child care centers in metro Atlanta.

“Providing our students with access to free reading books that span multiple genres is an excellent opportunity to enhance their early literacy skills,” said Dr. Zack K. Phillips, DCSD Director of the Early Learning Center. “These books serve as a fantastic platform for students to connect with the text as they read and discuss them with their parents or guardians at home.”

In addition, parents with low reading skills can improve their literacy by having books in the home.

“It also really increases the adult-

Make A Donation To donate books, contact Children Read (404-295-0789 or childrenread13@gmail.com) for dropoff locations, such as: ■ Children Read headquarters behind Ameris Bank across from Toco Hills Shopping Center 2936M North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta, GA 30329 on Tuesdays 10 AM – 4PM ■ Tall Tales Book Shop, Toco Hill Shopping Center, 2105 Lavista Road, Atlanta, GA 30329 ■ Virginia Highland Books, 1034 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306 ■ Brave & Kind Books, 722 W. College Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 ■ Coffee Bar Atlanta, 1602 LaVista Rd., Atlanta, GA 30329 More locations at childrenreadatlanta.org/donations.

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

child bond when you read to a child,” Jaret said. “You sit close to each other, look at the pictures, and talk about it.“ Children Read is looking to reach more schools within APS and DCDS by securing more books and volunteers.

The all-volunteer nonprofit relies exclusively on book donations and book drives conducted by schools, faith groups, workplaces, scouts, and more with resources available at www. childrenreadatlanta.org/donations.

They’re seeking board books, picture books, storybooks, and those that introduce the alphabet, numbers, shapes, and rhymes.

“One year the HBCU Queen chose Children Read as her community service project and collected 3,000 books for us,” Jaret shared. More recently, The Goddard School of Vinings donated 1,500 books.

Morningside Elementary School (MES) took a different approach, gifting hundreds of books from its school library.

Sara, a student at Dresden Elementary in Chamblee, received a book.

“As we make space for newer titles, older titles must be removed,” MES Librarian Michael Rawls shared.

“Finding a home for these books was important to me as the simple acts of flipping through a book, browsing pictures or spying familiar words build a foundation of reading.”

For the past six years, the Druid Hills High School Beta Club has helped prepare donated books for distribution.

"Volunteering at Children Read is a relaxing activity that makes an impact,” said Cole Christopher, a DHHS junior coordinating this Beta Club effort.

“While doing something good for the community by cleaning up donated children’s books and giving them back to kids, I’m also able to talk with my friends in a very calming undertaking.”

For those also looking to give their time, Children Read’s biggest need is for volunteers to deliver books and read to the Pre-K classrooms.

“We need readers and we need books,” Jaret urged. “It’s very simple.”

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29

SUSTAINABLITY

Caring for nature, one trout at a time

Students from McClesky Middle School in Marietta learned about trout by hatching and releasing them into the Chattahoochee.

(Photos by Sally Bethea)

An orange bucket sat on the riverbank beside the Chattahoochee on an early December morning—just a few feet from blue-green water that sparkled under the winter sun as it flowed over rocky shoals. Inside the bucket wiggled dozens of juvenile ABOVE THE rainbow trout, WATER LINE unaware that their horizons were about to expand exponentially.

Over the preceding six weeks, students in science Sally Bethea classes at McClesky Middle School in Marietta had cared for the trout after they hatched from eggs provided by the Upper Chattahoochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited (TU): a conservation group dedicated to protecting coldwater fisheries and their watersheds. Now it was time to release the fish into one of only three trout rivers in the world that flows through a metropolitan area of a million or more people.

Before the construction of Buford Dam in the 1950s, the Chattahoochee was a warmwater fishery, unable to provide the coldwater habitat necessary for trout survival. Today, the river below the dam is called a tailwater fishery, meaning it exists solely because of the influence of the upstream dam.

30 | JANUARY 2024

100,000 middle schoolers across the country participate in the hands-on learning program every year.

Jim Byrd has coordinated the TIC program in Atlanta within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for the past five years.

Beginning with two schools in 2018, TU’s Upper Chattahoochee Chapter has expanded the program to nineteen schools across the metro region—from Marietta and Norcross to Decatur and College Park. Byrd says that the program’s “conservation message” is particularly important. Before releasing the trout into the river, students visit educational stations where they learn about the history of the Chattahoochee, water quality testing, and how development can harm fish habitat with polluted stormwater runoff; they also practice fly casting.

First-year program expenses to set up a specialized, coldwater tank in each classroom total $1800, split equally between the national and local TU organizations and the school; annual costs for subsequent years are $250, funded by the local TU and the school.

About 125 eggs are delivered to each school in the fall and placed in tank water chilled to 50-53 degrees Fahrenheit. Within a few days, the trout life cycle begins to unfold as the eggs transform into fingerlings.

Students learn about water chemistry and how to care for their trout in a healthy ecosystem.

At the river

Cold water stored at the bottom of Lake Lanier is released into the river below its dam, creating a trout-friendly environment.

Trout in the classroom A thirty-year-old environmental education program created by the national Trout Unlimited organization, “Trout in the Classroom” (TIC) brings science to life and connects young people to their watersheds. More than

As 150 seventhgraders emerged from big yellow buses on that chilly December morning, I watched them move in chattering groups toward the education stations where Trout Unlimited members readied themselves for the energetic, curious, and (a few) cautious middle-schoolers.

For many of the students, this field trip was their first visit to the Chattahoochee River and the national park. The squeals and shrieks at the sight of spiders, bugs, and (imagined) snakes were not unexpected; as one teacher told me: “Seventh graders are dramatic about

everything.”

The students grew quieter as the morning progressed, seemingly more relaxed in nature and intent on the instruction being provided. At the riverbank they lined up, patiently waiting for their chance to release several of the trout they had raised into a much wider watery world.

As each student moved to the front of the line, a Trout Unlimited member dipped a net into the orange bucket, transferred several trout to a cup filled with water, and then handed the vessel to the student. Carefully, almost tenderly, the students poured their fish into the clean, cold water and watched them dart away. One asked me if he could kiss his fish goodbye: a nice sentiment, but tricky to achieve, so he settled for a simple goodbye.

A fish story On the opening day of trout season in the mid-1990s, I joined Bill Couch, then the manager of the state’s Buford Trout Hatchery on the river. I had gotten up early and driven upstream from the city in the dark. As my eyes adjusted to the dim light in the thick mist over the river, I could see dozens of people, quietly moving into their boats.

Each had a rod in hand, ready to test the waters that had been off-limits (at that time) for nearly half a year.

Bill and I paddled slowly into the middle of the stream. As I watched, the people around us baited their hooks and dropped their lines. Within minutes, they began pulling trout into their boats.

I wasn’t lucky with any fish that day, but it didn’t matter. I had seen the pure joy that overcomes people of all ages, especially the young, when they pull handsome, wiggling fish out of clean, cold water. That was more than enough.

The men and women who fish the Chattahoochee are among her best defenders. They understand how eroding soil and damaged stream buffers can harm water quality and habitat for trout, warmwater fish, and other aquatic species. During my years with Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, I loved speaking to Trout Unlimited and other fishing groups about the issues facing the river. Working with these anglers in schools, at the state legislature, and, when necessary, in the courts was always a pleasure. Our goals were the same: clean, accessible waterways for everyone.

Visit troutintheclassroom.org for more information. If your school would like to participate in the Chattahoochee Trout in the Classroom program, contact Jim Byrd at jamesbyrd@mindspring.com.

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Silver Streak Lost Corner garden named after long-time volunteer Trisha Thompson RoughDraftAtlanta.com/Newsletters to subscribe to the Silver Streak weekly newsletter

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By Bob Pepalis The Friends of Lost Corner have recognized Trisha Thompson’s 20 years of stewardship by naming the Sandy Springs community garden in her honor.

The other board members surprised her on Dec. 14 with a colorful sign above its entrance that declared it as the Trisha Thompson Community Garden.

Thompson’s official and unofficial efforts to make the park a community space since 2003 led to the decision for this recognition. She had befriended Peggy Miles along with Cheryl Barlow, visiting her home on the 24-acre tract at 7300 Brandon Mill Road. Miles and Barlow have both been president of their homeowner’s association and checked up on Miles regularly. She was born in the home in 1923.

Miles shared stories about growing up on the property and chatted about the animals and plants she knew by their Latin names. During a visit in 2006, Miles told them she wanted the property left unchanged so everyone could enjoy it.

Thompson and Barlow helped form Friends of Lost Corner at the city’s request to help fulfill the wishes of Miles in 2011.

What’s now known as the Trisha Thompson Community Garden was started in 2013.

Most people didn’t know that Eva Galambos, the first mayor of Sandy Springs, was a master gardener. She wanted the community garden created at Lost Corner, so Thompson said they had to rush around to determine its dimensions and design it.

The number of active community ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

gardeners has wound down with fall and the approach of winter.

“People really don’t want to sign up for winter vegetable growing,” she said.

Gardening bed sites will be renewed in the spring, and Lost Corner organizers will notify people including those on the waitlist in January or February. Some beds will be available as they always are because of rotation.

“People, God bless them, always think that they’re going to be down here every other day growing vegetables. No, they’re not,” Thompson said.

Fellow board member Ronda Smith said that Mayor Rusty Paul proclaimed it the Trisha Thompson Community Garden earlier this year.

The community garden meets the needs of residents living in apartments or on treefilled lots where growing vegetables would be difficult with little sun, Thompson said.

She thanked the long list of volunteers who come to Lost Corner one day a month to clean the edges of the garden’s beds and do the rough work to keep the garden looking good.

“Today it’s virtually weed-free around each of the bed frames and that is because of the volunteer groups that have come over the last several months,” Thompson said.

Peggy Miles had a lot of vision in her planting on the property, so Thompson suggests that today’s gardeners plant pollinators for the birds, the bees, and the butterflies, “It’s not all about tomatoes,” she said.

For more information, visit friendsoflostcorner.org.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Georgia Film Academy plays vital role in entertainment workforce

By Sammie Purcell Scott Votaw, executive director for the Georgia Film Academy, has been on the road with the Georgia Unscripted Roadshow discussing workforce development and education within the state’s entertainment industry.

Votaw, who also serves as the assistant vice chancellor for the University System of Georgia, will be at the Roadshow’s Atlanta event on Dec. 14, and spoke with Rough Draft Atlanta prior to the stop about the Georgia Film Academy’s role in preparing students from a young age for different jobs in the film and entertainment industry.

“Filming is taking place all over the state, so we do training all over the state,” said Votaw, who is a Georgia native. “The purpose of me being in the Roadshows is really to give people the opportunity to see what we’ve done … We are a workforce initiative, so jobs for Georgia is our number one piece. What we do leads toward employment, and it gives the students the tools necessary to be successful.”

The Georgia Film Academy began operations in 2015 and is a statewide education initiative operated in partnership with institutions in the University System

32 | JANUARY 2024

of Georgia, the Technical College System of Georgia, and independent universities in the state. According to Votaw, right now 20 universities, nine technical colleges, and two independent institutions are involved with the Georgia Film Academy. This is Votaw’s eighth year working with the academy, but his first year in leadership. He was named executive director last March.

The Georgia Film Academy offers handson training and industry certifications in numerous areas within the entertainment industry and develops curriculum and training aligned with those areas. This includes developing a curriculum for high school and middle school students, not just those at the collegiate level.

According to Votaw, the Georgia Film Academy creates the curriculum for high schools in accordance with Audio & Video Technology & Film (AVTF), which falls under the Georgia Department of Education’s College, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathway.

The academy also hosts a two-week high school teacher training program where teachers learn from industry experts about every department on a major film or television set, so that they are able to take that knowledge back to their classrooms.

Scott Votaw

“All of this leads directly into either a technical college, or a college degree program, or an independent certification within those institutions,” Votaw said. “Same thing with the middle school – that curriculum is more related to that age group, but it funnels toward the pathways that are in the high school.”

Votaw said one of the more important things the Georgia Film Academy does is help students understand how their specific skill sets might fit into the entertainment industry.

There’s not a singular focus on more wellknown jobs such as directing or writing, but a broader focus on training for jobs that include electrician, costume designer, set decorator, and other creative positions that bring a film to life.

“We’re identifying and showing the students that whatever their interests are, there’s some relational field within film and entertainment that they can go to work,” Votaw said. “It’s showing them where the jobs are … and then it’s giving them applicable skills to go along with all their other skills they’re gaining, whether it’s at high school or college.”

The Georgia Film Academy has had students go on to be set decorators, writers, sound engineers, and visual effects artists.

Recently, Rough Draft Atlanta spoke to Justin Holt, a Georgia Film Academy student who landed an internship on the set of “Creed III,” and went on to a paid role on Alex Garland’s upcoming film “Civil War.” Votaw said as important as it is to teach the skills students will need on a set, it’s just as important for the Georgia Film Academy to help facilitate the transition from school to work.

“We also work with [students] on building a resume. Going out and doing interviews for their internship,” he said. “This is all a practice, so they’re not just left on their own.”

Votaw said the level of interest that students have for the film industry has been promising.

“Kids are excited and they think about content creation all the time,” Votaw said.

“That’s part of their culture now.”

Votaw said he wants the Georgia Film Academy’s reach to continue to spread across the state.

“We’re not just a metro Atlanta organization. That’s why we’re putting so much effort behind high school, middle school, because I can get a broad reach into rural Georgia,” Votaw said. “If we truly want to be diverse and inclusive, I have to include all of Georgia.”

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

Sandy Springs to host Martin Luther King Jr. Art & Film Celebration

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By Bob Pepalis Sandy Springs will host the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Art & Film Celebration on Jan. 15, 2024.

The art and film event begins at 1 p.m. at the Studio Theatre at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at 1 Galambos Way. The celebration of MLK Day in Sandy Springs has become a community tradition. Each year, our families come together to honor Dr. King’s legacy and memory through art and film. Young people especially benefit from the exploration of ideals such as justice, freedom, and perhaps the most critical of these, love,” City Councilmember Melody Kelley said.

It will feature interactive art projects and a film that was created to educate and share his teachings. The themes and activities will include: ■ Dream: Listen to King’s “I Have a Dream” speech and create a personal “Dream Cloud” craft.

■ Justice: Decorate a bookmark with a quote from King, “The time is always right to do what is right”.

■ Love: Use crayons to trace hands, identifying the similarities we all share.

■ Liberty: Complete a word search and learn about terms such as civil rights, segregation, and equality.

■ Equality: Live Storytime.

Picture books such as “My Brother Martin”, written by King’s sister, Dr. ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

Christine King Farris, will be read out loud.

■ Freedom: Movie screening of Emmy Award-nominated film, “Our Friend, Martin.”

“Our Friend, Martin” is an animated children’s educational film about King and the Civil Rights movement. The film follows two middle school friends who travel through time and meet King during different times in his life.

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DINING RoughDraftAtlanta.com/Newsletters to subscribe to the Side Dish weekly newsletter

Mastering your knowledge of wine WOMEN + WINE Chef Ford Fry

Katie Rice & Sarah Pierre Welcome to 2024, a new year with new possibilities! If one of your resolutions is to become more educated in the ways of wine, there are several options available. If you are looking to get more savvy or ready to make a career change, there is a class for that.

We introduced Chelsea Young last fall in an article highlighting the opening of her local wine school called The Oenophile Institute. I sat down with her to discuss courses that even the most novice wine drinker can take to further their wine knowledge and maybe get a certificate to prove it.

The accreditation that gets the most buzz is the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS). Organizations of wine professionals date back to the 12th century with the Worshipful Company of Vintners (which is still in existence today), but it wasn’t until The Institute of Masters of Wine was created that the first true Sommelier exam was held in 1977.

The CMS was created specifically for service industry professionals when, after World War II, the abundance of career sommeliers had dwindled. CMS’s intention was to drive an interest in the profession and hold it to a certain level of standards. In 1983, the Court held its first American exams. This accreditation is only open to those who work in or adjacent to the service industry and have several years of service experience.

Chelsea Young

The term sommelier was based on the French word for butler and actually refers to someone who works in a restaurant as a wine steward. These team members have extensive knowledge of wine, are responsible for inventory management, and work the floor as an addition to servers, usually helping guests select wines to enjoy with their meals. They don’t have to be certified by the CMS but it certainly helps when gaining employment in the role.

With the popularity of the Somm

Beth McKibben joins Rough Draft Veteran food and dining journalist Beth McKibben is joining Rough Draft Atlanta as senior editor responsible for food and dining and will lead the company’s coverage of the industry across both print and digital platforms, including Reporter Newspapers, Atlanta Intown, and our newsletter portfolio. McKibben, who will also contribute to news and lifestyle coverage, will begin in January. With more than 14 years of experience covering the food and beverage industry, McKibben most recently served as editor of Eater Atlanta.

34 | JANUARY 2024

documentaries, the idea of a sommelier became most lay people’s idea of a wine expert. We are often asked if we are sommeliers and the answer is – it depends on who you ask. We are educated and certified, but no longer work in the restaurant industry. While we are constantly tasting wine, unloading cases to fill shelves, and often selecting the perfect thing to pair with people’s meals, we are no longer running around for eight hours on the floor of a restaurant. Blind tasting is more often done for continued education and fun but not because we are studying for more advanced Sommelier levels.

When a guest truly wants to immerse themselves in wine, there are specific platforms we tend to push people towards and CMS is not often one of them. Since Chelsea is the owner of Oenophile Institute, it was natural to consult an expert. She also has certifications with the Court of Master Sommeliers, the Society of Wine Educators, and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). Chelsea was recently accepted to sit for the Master of Wine program and is eagerly planning out 2024’s teaching schedule at OI. When we discussed the question, “What certification would you recommend for someone who wants to further their wine knowledge?” Chelsea didn’t hesitate to suggest the Wine and Spirits Trust. Her reasoning is simple: it is comprehensive yet attainable. WSET was also founded in 1977 but is geared towards everyone looking to further their wine education, not just those in the hospitality industry.

There are four levels and all require educational hours and a formal exam.

For example, Level 1 is the basics which breaks down fundamentals, eight major grape varietals, storage and service as well as the basics of food pairings. Essentially, what you need to know to get into wine.

Class can be done in a one-day, sixhour course or three weeks of two-hour sessions all culminating in a multiplechoice exam. Tasting is an educational component but not graded. Think simple, like the difference between Pinot Noir and Cabernet. As the levels increase so does time of study and exam difficulty culminating in a diploma or Level 4

which, as Chelsea put it, is a “super serious jump.”

The class has 185 hours of study required that contain five units covering everything from grape cultivation to the global business of wine with a blind tasting component of 18 wines. There are five written exams and a 10-page written research paper. Chelsea wrote hers on cork and enclosure alternatives and the sustainability of each.

When comparing this accreditation to the top level of CMS, Chelsea says it is like comparing apples to oranges, they are both fruits, but they are vastly different. Chelsea obtained her diploma in 19 months, which is rare and usually has about a 20% pass rate. But to obtain a Master Sommelier or Master of Wine, the pass rate is about 7% and takes no less than three years, but usually around five to 10. Not only is the commitment time-consuming, but it will also cost you tens of thousands of dollars.

Another more at-home option is the CSW or Certified Specialist of Wine.

The Society of Wine Educators is a nonprofit organization that provides varying educational certificates not just for wine, but also for spirits and hospitality.

Chelsea’s experience with the CSW was favorable but says it is not necessarily for the beginner. The CSW itself is one exam that is all multiple choice but compares to WSET Level 3, encompassing everything from wine composition and chemistry to service and storage. Candidates have access to study guides, flashcards, webinars and other tools, but study and class work is done by the individual and testing is online at a testing center.

These aren’t the only programs available; courses exist in almost every aspect. Want to learn more about Champagne? Why not become a Master of Champagne through the Wine Scholar Guild? There are specific classes and certifications for everything in our industry.

Atlanta is lucky to have resources everywhere, especially the Oenophile Institute and the work Chelsea and her team are doing. I asked her, why should someone want to sign up for classes? Her answer mirrors a lot of our philosophies: “We pride ourselves on being for people who love to drink wine and want to learn.

The institute lends itself to opening its doors to anyone and everyone. The goal is to get as many people as passionate about wine as we are.”

As wine professionals we love what we do; we love the stories and the history but it is more than just tasting wine, it is a demanding industry. So before quitting your day job, consider sitting for a course at OI. Courses for the WSET level one through 3 are starting in January both online and in person.

Visit oenophileinstitute.com for specific dates or email Chelsea directly at chelsea@ oenophile.institute with any questions.

ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

If ‘Dry January’ is a New Year’s resolution, try these non-alcoholic spirits

By Cory Atkinson, Kristina Ferdinand, and Stephanie Saputo Taking a break from alcohol this time of year is becoming more popular.

According to a poll, 1 in 5 millennial adults participated in “Dry January” in 2023.

Whether you are taking a personal break or for health reasons, we salute you. We believe it’s always a good idea to re-evaluate your relationship with alcohol from time to time. Luckily, taking a break doesn’t mean you have to hide in a hole or drink water for a month.

There are so many options emerging to offer the sober curious and regular drinkers ways of imbibing without the hangover. Some products mimic exactly that spirit flavor you are craving, while others have their own unique flavor.

But first, what is a non-alcoholic spirit?

Time to pull in our Zero Co team to help us answer this great question, which is one we get a lot. It's also one that many different IN THE SPIRIT producers take different approaches to.

At their base, they are usually water-based (or sometimes vinegar-based), WITH ELEMENTAL with either SPIRITS infusions, macerations or distillations of herbs, spices and citrus or other aromatic fruits and vegetables.

The formulations of these things are extensive, and each herb, spice and other ingredient added is done so to garner different sensational experiences from smell to taste to mouthfeel and finish.

For example, Erika Ollén, the founder and developer of GNISTA, uses wormwood for bitterness and a bit of beet syrup to add body and make it weigh the palate like a distilled spirit for her Floral Wormwood expression.

Other producers add cayenne pepper or Chinese 5 spice to formulations to mimic the alcohol numb or burn you would get from a traditional distilled spirit.

So, when you're browsing through these non-alcoholic options, you might ask yourself, "What do I do with these?" The answer to that question is complicated. First, you should ask yourself, "What sort of experience am I looking for?"

■ Do you want something to just sip on after a meal while relaxing on the couch?

■ Do you want to batch up some ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

cocktails for some friends?

■ Are you looking for something quick you can pop open?

Many spirits are representative of their alcoholic counterparts, focusing on creating a flavor profile that closely mimics that of a tequila or gin, say. This style of non-alc spirit is a good substitute to make non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails you might be seeking.

mezcal qualities by offering nuanced notes of smoke, vegetal complexity and earthiness to complement its bitter foundation.

Finally, there is a class of nonalcoholic spirits that are designed to be something different. Whether they are using adaptogens or just taste unique and pack flavor, these are some of the more bespoke and interesting flavor

combinations. Usually, they are just great over ice or spritzed with some sparkling water, but they also can add depth to a homemade cocktail concoction. ◄TRY: Dromme Calm, $40 Wind down and soothe with the sophisticated tastes and sensations of this unique, complex blend of quality botanicals, adaptogens, and nootropics.

At the end of the day, it's important to remember these are all very specifically researched and built beverages, designed to challenge and dare we say trick our brains and palates.

They are developed in small kitchens typically with fresh herbs, spices and produce. They are alive and intended to wake up your senses and remind you that you're drinking something unique in your glass. Honestly, these are for everyone, not just the sober curious. But if you are taking a break, it's nice to know you can still be #thirstyandcurious.

Go visit our friends at The Zero Co (thezeroco.co) to learn more about these spirits.

▲TRY: Ish - London Botanical Spirit, $32 This classic London dry-style spirit has the juniper punch to make any non-alc gin & tonic feel as botanical and sharp as the real thing.

Then, there are pre-batched, often carbonated, versions of cocktails that are meant to be well balanced, easy to crack and go non-alc cocktails. Usually in a can, just pop these in your fridge and grab and go when you need it.

▲TRY: St. Agrestis Phony Mezcal Negroni, $6 Phony Mezcal Negroni emphasizes JANUARY 2024 |

35

REAL ESTATE

Buying & Selling in 2024

Six experts share their insights and foresight into the local housing market

Kelly Boudreau

A fantastic view of the Chattahoochee from a recent home for sale on Riverbend Club Drive.

By Kathy Dean Despite higher mortgage interest rates, the real estate market has stayed strong in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Dunwoody, and Sandy Springs – but it is far less frantic. The scenario is likely to continue, according to neighborhood real estate professionals.

They predict that sellers will still do well with a home listed at a sound price.

And they suggest homebuyers grab the opportunities that higher rates offer – more stable housing prices and fewer buyers in the market.

DeAnn Golden and Lori Lane “The Atlanta real estate market and the sought-after neighborhoods of Buckhead, Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs have demonstrated resilience in the face of higher interest rates,” said DeAnn Golden, President and CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. “These areas are anticipated to align with the national trend of escalating home prices.”

Golden noted that a pivotal factor is the shortage of available homes.

“Lawrence Yun, the Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), foresees a 2.6% increase in home prices for the year 2024,” she added.

She stated that the National

36 | JANUARY 2024

DeAnn Golden

Association of Realtors (NAR) anticipates a potential drop in mortgage rates to between 7% and 6% in 2024.

“This projection suggests a favorable environment that could further stimulate demand and help sustain the existing price levels,” Golden said.

Lori Lane, President New Homes Division and Senior VP of Luxury and Global, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties, echoed Golden’s positive message: “Looking ahead to 2024, our firm envisions a landscape of stability in the regions of Buckhead, Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs.”

She said that Yun’s forecast not only sheds light on the imminent increase in home prices but also underscores the persistent challenge of housing supply.

“Despite the prevailing higher mortgage rates, the unwavering demand for homes will uphold elevated price levels,” Lane predicted.

Kelly Boudreau

Lori Lane

Kelly Boudreau, Real Estate Agent, Home Luxury Real Estate, shared an important insight: “The reality is that there are some excellent opportunities now for first-time and move-up buyers, so they shouldn’t necessarily wait for changes in interest rates.”

She said that the market is price-driven and disproportionately impacts first-time

home buyers, and, in turn, affects move-up buyers.

“With inventories particularly low, these buyers are waiting for interest rates to fall to maximize their budgets,” Boudreau explained. “When rates do eventually fall, the market will tighten further and become even more competitive. That, in turn, will drive home prices back up.”

New construction is driving the luxury market with move-in-ready properties, she noted. Additionally, resale homes not updated or renovated are spending more days on the market or seeing early price reductions.

“The effects of low inventories across Atlanta have resulted in buyers looking at a broader range of geographical options than has traditionally been the case,” Boudreau said. “Someone who might want to live in Buckhead is now considering buying a home in other communities, such as Brookhaven or Sandy Springs, rather than waiting for the market to open up in their first choice location.”

Ashley Battleson According to Ashley Battleson, Real Estate Professional, Atlanta Fine Homes | Sotheby’s International Realty, Atlanta’s luxury housing market has been witnessing annual price appreciation, although the pace of activity is currently on the decline.

“This slowdown can be attributed, in part, to the prevailing high-interest rates and a discernible shift in buyer behavior compared to just a few years ago. Today’s buyers are notably more discerning,” she said.

Battleson stressed that while home prices have risen, the associated costs of homeownership and maintenance have also seen an uptick. “Those who have undergone renovations in the past three ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

Ashley Battleson

years can attest to the increased expenses, budget overruns or unforeseen delays,” she said.

She advised sellers to price their property correctly. “Even if a property is spectacular, setting the price too high may discourage well-researched buyers who hesitate to overpay or offend with a low offer,” she said.

Anticipating a robust and stable real estate market in 2024, Battleson said, “I foresee an easing of inventory constraints as a greater number of sellers, who have been holding off not wanting to give up their ultra-low mortgage rates, begin to feel more comfortable with easing interest rates and express their intention to either upgrade or downsize,” she said.

The exterior of a home for sale by Diane Smith.

although in certain price points – below $2 million – there are still multiple offers if a home is priced well,” Bradley shared.

She said that real estate isn’t moving quite as fast as it was, “but that was not sustainable. We are in a normal ‘preCOVID’ market. The average sales price in Atlanta has gone up 2.8% year over year (2023 vs 2022). The number of pending sales year over year is down 20%.”

Bradley foresees stability in 2024 and many opportunities for homebuyers.

“Honestly, it’s a fantastic time to buy because it’s not quite as competitive, so buyers are not having to pay more than market value, which they had to do the past few years,” she said. “Interest rates have decreased from the summer, plus a buyer can refinance.”

The interior of a recent home for sale by Kelly Boudreau.

Shanna Bradley

Shanna Bradley “When the interest rates first went up this summer, the market slowed,” reported Shanna Bradley, Realtor, Ansley Real Estate | Christie’s International Real Estate.

“Towards the end of the third quarter, the market started moving again, and there is an uptick now in pending sales and number of homes on the market.”

She also noted that there have been more cash purchases than in the past few years.

The market is not as competitive on the buyer side, “which has been a nice change, ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM

Diane Smith

Diane Smith “The Great Reset in our market for 2023 has slowed down from the previous

two years to a more normal market, but with few homes on the market,” said Diane Smith, Senior VP and Managing Broker, Harry Norman Realtors | Atlanta Perimeter.

“Days that homes are on the market are increasing. With 2022, we had 20 days as an average to now 30 to 40 days,” Smith reported. “This is still significantly down from prior to the 2020 market, when we had 75 to 90 days on market.”

She pointed to the continued demand for homes in desirable areas such as Buckhead, Brookhaven, Dunwoody, and Sandy Springs. “The inventory is low.

Homes coming on the market buyer-

ready and priced for the market are seeing multiple offers,” she said.

Smith believes 2024 will be stable, and a lot like 2023. “We do need more homes on the market to have homes that the buyers are desiring. If they can’t find it here, then they will look to the areas north of Atlanta,” she said.

She also suggested that homebuyers buy now, even with higher rates.

“If rates go down, then refinance.

Homes are only going to continue to rise 3 to 5 % over the year. Buy the home now at the price you want,” Smith advised.

JANUARY 2024 |

37

Atlanta Tech Village founder buying South Downtown properties

A view of historic Hotel Row on Mitchell Street in South Downtown. (Photo by Isadora Pennington)

By Dyana Bagby Atlanta Tech Village founder David Cummings is buying up acres of South Downtown properties that were set to be sold at foreclosure as part of a plan to create a tech startup community.

Cummings and Jon Birdsong of Atlanta Ventures, an investment group that founded Atlanta Tech Village in Buckhead, have teamed up to buy up some of German developer Newport RE’s properties, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle. Atlanta Tech Village is one of the country’s largest centers for technology entrepreneurs.

Newport’s plans to redevelop 10 blocks of the neglected Downtown area near the Five Points MARTA station into a thriving neighborhood dubbed “South DWNTN” collapsed earlier this year when the company said it was forced to sell its portfolio after investor funding dried up.

Many of Newport’s properties were up for foreclosure when the company defaulted on loans after a deal fell through to sell its portfolio to Braden Fellman.

Cummings and Birdsong announced their plans to buy the entire Newport portfolio — 53 parcels including 6 acres of parking lots — in a statement posted on the Atlanta Ventures website.

They praised Newport’s “compelling vision” to revitalize South Downtown.

That vision deserves to be pursued, they said, to develop South Downtown into a potential hub for tech entrepreneurs.

A larger plan for the property could be completed in the next year with plans

38 | JANUARY 2024

for mixed-uses to be open in time for the 2026 World Cup. “Our first priority is listening and ensuring the mechanisms are in place to keep South Downtown in a state of progress,” the statement said. “Progress towards the continued combination of historic preservation and new construction, with a greater emphasis on creative doers and entrepreneurs from every corner of our city.”

“Returns and proceeds from companies started on streets we all know, Peachtree and Piedmont, are fueling the continued vision set forth nearly a decade ago. We, at Atlanta Ventures, will not let our city go backwards,” the statement said.

“Innovation, progress, and risk-taking are in our blood. It’s why we choose to call this city home. It’s why we named our firm after our city,” the statement said.

“Now is the time to be on the offense.

An opportunity to create a safe, walkable, and livable neighborhood in the once forgotten ‘heart of the city’ is right in front of us. Every great city in the world has a vibrant downtown, it’s Atlanta’s turn,” the statement said.

“Over the next year, we’ll be listening, learning, and designing towards a larger plan – while balancing the time constraints as the world awaits to enter our doorstep for the World Cup in the summer of 2026.”

They also announced April Stammel of Newport is now a board member of Atlanta Ventures.

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