Atlanta Intown - August 2017

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Editorial

Collin Kelley INtown Editor

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Contributors

Evelyn Andrews, Sally Bethea, Kathy Dean, Joe Earle, Grace Huseth, Isadora Pennington, Dan Popovic, Asep Mawardi, Clare Richie, Tim Sullivan, Megan Volpert

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monthly since 1994 On the Cover Josh McNair, left, and Adrian Hogan on the front porch of their Intown home with rescue pups Denim and Drake. To see more cute pets and their owners, check out the special pictorial starting on Page 10. A SPECIAL SECTION 9 28 18

August 8 40

Make Downtown Great Again

My earliest memories of Downtown Atlanta – and, yes, I’m about to give away my age –are from 1976 when I was 6-years old. I was in the backseat of my parents’ puke-green Ford LTD, excitedly leaning between the seats to get a better look out the front windshield at the round cylinder that towered over the city. It was our destination – the newly opened Peachtree Plaza Hotel. At the time, the Plaza was the tallest hotel in the world, and it was both awe-inspiring and a little frightening.

EDITOR’S LETTER

After flipping out over the sadly long-gone lagoon in the hotel’s lobby, we took the glass elevator – I might have peed a little in my Underoos – to take in the view that seemed to stretch forever. Here’s what I remember: the gold dome of the State Capitol, the blue flying saucer atop the Hyatt Regency, the marquee of the Lowe’s Grand Theatre where “Gone With The Wind” premiered (now the site of the Georgia-Pacific building), the futuristic Omni Arena and Hotel (now Philips Arena and CNN Center), the grand old Rich’s Department Store (now the Sam Nunn Federal Center), and in the distance, Stone Mountain. It was magic up there.

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Collin Kelley collin@atlantaintown paper.com

This was to be a momentous Sunday. After the Peachtree Plaza, we went to Underground Atlanta – the old Underground before it got turned into a boring shopping mall in the late 1980s. And then on to the Omni to The World of Sid and Marty Krofft, located on the upper levels of the building where CNN’s headquarters is now located. Riding the long escalator was the best part, because the trippy, whacked out mess of an amusement park only lasted six months. I was there to meet H.R. Pufnstuf (He was your friend when things got rough!), but it was three floors of uninspired rides, bored teenagers in bad costumes and not-very-good souvenirs.

That Downtown is gone, but a bigger and better one is on the way. It’s been coming in fits and starts since since the 1996 Summer Olympics and the creation of Centennial Olympic Park. Right now, Underground is getting the makeover its needed for 40 years; South Downtown is about to undergo an amazing transformation; and the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium and entertainment complex planned for the sunken parking lot of The Gulch will radically alter the heart of the city. You can read more about it on Page. 6. I can’t wait to be awe-inspired once again, to feel that magic.

Here’s a Twitter hashtag I can get behind: #MDGA

The Neighborhood

Downtown Rising

Multiple redevelopments set to transform heart of city

By Collin Kelley

Work on the redevelopment of Underground Atlanta is set to start within a month, while plans to revitalize eight blocks of South Downtown have been revealed.

Underground Atlanta in the heart of Downtown will become a mixed-use development featuring a supermarket, residential, retail and office space.

According to the SaportaReport, work will begin on transforming the four-block historic area in August when existing tenants move from Lower Alabama Street to Upper Alabama Street. Those include Foot Locker, Subway, Pandora, Skillz, Best of Atlanta and Kempani. The developers told residents at a recent public meeting that a rumored Walmart will not be part of the project.

Developer WRS said it will adapt the historic buildings that make up Undergound and have hired S9 Architecture, which worked on Ponce City Market and 725 Ponce. The first phase of the transformation could be complete in 18 to 24 months.

One of the first projects in transforming Underground could come from Prestwick Development, which has announced plans for a 180-unit apartment building called The Avery. The building would be located on Upper Alabama Street between Pryor Street and Central Avenue, and offer 150 units for households earning 60 percent or less of the area median income, with the remaining units dedicated to market-rate units, with an emphasis on workforce housing.

Meanwhile, German real estate company Newport US RE is moving forward with plans to redevelop eight blocks of South Downtown’s historic buildings between Underground and Castleberry Hill.

According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, the company has scooped up 25 buildings in the historic area with another dozen under contract. Residential, student housing for nearby Georgia State University, retail, restaurant and office space are envisioned for the area, with construction slated to begin next year.

Also on deck: The new owners of the dilapidated Medical Arts Building in Downtown plan to restore the 1920’s Beaux-Arts landmark into an office tower. Global X, which bought the building at 384 Peachtree Street earlier this year, has requested $3 million of support from the Beltline Eastside Tax Allocation District for the project. The estimated cost for the renovation is $40 million.

When completed, the building will offer 85,000 square feet of Class A office space targeted to “community-oriented, nonprofit organizations” as well as ground floor retail space. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2016.

Along with those projects, work is moving forward on transforming the Turner Field site into a sports complex for Georgia State with a mixed-use component, and Los Angeles-based CIM Group is trying to shore up the property and parking lots next door to Philips Arena –known as The Gulch – for a mixed-use development.

Clockwise from top left: A rendering for The Avery, a planned apartment building at Underground Atlanta; Renderings for the redeveloped streets of South Downtown; A rendering of the renovated Medical Arts Building, which will become offices and retail space.

Northeast BeltLine Trail may soon enter Buckhead

By Evelyn Andrews

The Atlanta BeltLine may soon extend into the southeast portion of Buckhead. Plans for that portion of the trail, called the Northeast Trail, were presented at a public meeting July 13.

The Northeast Trail would be the second segment of the BeltLine to be built in Buckhead following the completed Northside Trail near Piedmont Hospital.

BeltLine planners propose working with Georgia Power Co. to pave an existing interim hiking trail from Ansley Mall in Midtown to Mayson Street, just past I-85 on the Buckhead border.

The trail would cross the Buford-Spring Connector on an existing rail bridge and pass through an existing tunnel under I-85. Room for a future streetcar rail is planned to run along the trail.

The trail would be part of the larger BeltLine plan, which proposes a loop of 22 miles of streetcar route, 33 miles of multi-use trail and 2,000 acres of parks, according to the BeltLine website. It utilizes existing rail tracks that encircle the inner part of Atlanta.

Most of the multi-use trail has not been built yet, and none of the streetcar routes have been built. The streetcar route will eventually be an expansion of the existing Atlanta Streetcar, which runs Downtown.

The BeltLine is not being built in a linear way, with each segment connecting directly to the one before it. Instead, Atlanta BeltLine Inc. builds segments as real estate opportunities come up. In this case, the opportunity is planned Georgia Power work along the Northeast Trail route. Planners intend for the various trail segments to connect eventually, and to connect to other trails, such as PATH 400 in Buckhead.

There are currently three completed BeltLine trails: the Eastside Trail, which begins at Piedmont Park and runs through Old Fourth Ward past Ponce City Market, the Westside Trail, which has partly opened, and the Northside Trail in Buckhead, a one-mile trail running from Memorial Park through Tanyard Creek Park.

The BeltLine already has secured $600,000 in federal funding for the Northeast Trail, which runs from Monroe Drive on the south to Lindbergh on the north, but it is not enough money to fund the entire project. The meeting held on July 13 was only about work that will be done on a segment of the Northeast Trail, from Ansley Mall to Mayson Drive.

Another part of the Northeast Trail around the Lindbergh area that will connect the Northside Trail to the Eastside Trail is slated to go into construction between 2019 and 2023, according to BeltLine documents.

On the west side of the Northside Trail, progress will be slower because parts of the rail corridor is still used by trains, and may not be constructed until 2024-2030, according to documents.

BeltLine officials are trying to seize an opportunity to have some of the work facilitated this fall by Georgia Power as it replaces power infrastructure on the “Hairpin Line,” a row of power line poles so named because the poles look like hairpins.

During Georgia Power’s work, the company will level the ground, possibly remove train tracks and pave that segment of the trail for the BeltLine, depending on what can be negotiated, Ray Strychalski, the landscape architect working on the project, said at the meeting held at Rock Spring Presbyterian Church. The tracks, no longer used, are part of the 22 miles of train line right of way planned as part of the BeltLine.

The contractor working on designs and construction for this segment of the trail is Kimley-Horn. The contract may be extended to complete the portions on either end of this segment, including the portion that extends from Mayson Street to Armour Drive, which would extend the BeltLine into an area of Buckhead being redeveloped with breweries, distilleries and nonprofits, officials said at the meeting, which about 50 people attended.

It likely will require another two years before officials begin planning for the segment into the Lindbergh area, officials said.

Chris Iverson, an Ansley Mall area resident, said he is excited about the prospect of having the trail begin earlier than expected, and is looking forward to having a paved trail to make bicycling easier.

Matt Moreland, a Lindbergh area resident, said he is happy to hear trails closer to him may move forward, and he hopes BeltLine officials are able to reach an agreement with Georgia Power.

“I hope they get it all worked out and some progress can happen soon,” he said.

This map presented at the public meeting shows the segment that could be constructed next, which extends from Ansley Mall to Mayson Street, in the solid blue line.

Public hearing on Emory annexation set for Aug. 10

By Collin Kelley

ON THE AGENDA

MEETINGS

The Atlanta City Council meets Aug. 21 at 1 p.m. at City Hall, 55 Trinity Ave. Information: citycouncil.atlantaga.gov.

The Atlanta School Board meets Aug. 7 at 2:30 p.m. for a community meeting at 6:30 p.m. at 130 Trinity Ave. Information: atlantapublicschools.us.

Midtown Alliance will host Mix-It-Up Midtown socializing and networking event on Aug. 10 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at WeWork Colony Square. Information: MidtownAtl.com

NEWS

The Atlanta City Council approved an ordinance to enter into an intergovernmental contract with Invest Atlanta to secure a $26 million Homeless Opportunity Bond. The bond will be used to finance projects, primarily in housing, with the goal of making homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring in the city.

MARTA is working on a mobile payment system that would allow customers to use a smartphone to pay for their ride on a bus or train.

The City of Decatur Public Facilities Authority has been awarded an $11,452,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority. The loan will finance the acquisition of 22.08 acres of land as part of the United Methodist Children’s Home land purchase of 77 total acres. This project will permanently protect the land for the purpose of conservation and public recreation.

Atlanta will once again take part in the Global Cities Initiative, a joint project of Brookings and JPMorgan Chase to help city-regions prioritize and execute economic partnerships with international counterparts.

A public hearing on Emory University’s petition to be annexed into the City of Atlanta will be held Aug. 10 by the Atlanta Zoning Review Board. The meeting will be held at City Hall starting at 6 p.m.

Emory formally filed a petition for annexation into the city on June 27, and DeKalb County has objected to it.

In a July 16 email to his constituents, DeKalb County Dist. 2 Commission Jeff Rader raised the alarm about Emory annexing request citing concerns about traffic, development standards and infrastructure.

Rader said Atlanta City Council members have no constituents in the

surrounding unincorporated area, which is where the impact of new growth will fall.

affect properties in Druids Hills, which is filled with historic homes.

Historic

By Collin Kelley

A notice of intent has been issued to nominate the Pratt-Pullman Yard in Kirkwood as a landmark site due to its historic, cultural and architectural significance. The nearly 26-acre site was recently sold by the state for $8 million to Atomic Entertainment, which plans to create a mixeduse development with a focus on filmmaking.

According to a statement from Councilmember Natalyn Archibong’s office, Atlanta Urban Design Commissioner Executive Director Doug Young initiated the nomination and designation process on June 20 for the property located at 225 Rogers Street, N.E. If the commission formally nominate the property for designation as a landmark site then the measure will go through the city’s regular procedure for all zoning papers. This includes another public hearing before the Zoning Review Board. It must also receive a recommendation from the Zoning Committee and final designation action from the Atlanta City Council. The protection will continue for a maximum of 180 days from the date of the notice of intent. During this period no alterations, renovations, additions, new construction, demolition or site work of any kind is permitted on the property

“If Atlanta extends MARTA onto the Emory Campus as they have proposed, there is likely to be new development stimulated by the new access, and only a portion of the related travel will be conveyed via MARTA,” Rader wrote. “Local streets like North Decatur, Clifton, Houston Mill, Biltmore, Lullwater, Springdale, Oakdale and Oxford and others would all bear the burden of increased traffic.”

Jeff Rader

Rader said he was also concerned about Atlanta’s “more permissive development standards and zoning policies” that might

Rader said the city approached DeKalb proposing that the county continue to provide fire protection and emergency management services to the annexed areas, because Atlanta’s nearest fire station is in Virginia-Highland. “These matters could form the basis of collaboration should the annexation occur, but DeKalb has been unsuccessful in getting Atlanta to recognize or discuss the destabilizing impact that such an intrusive annexation into unincorporated DeKalb would have,” Rader said.

neighborhood. “I am pleased that a process is underway to allow for the preservation of the buildings at the Pratt-Pullman Yard. Some of the buildings on this property are more than 100 years old and today serve as a testament to Atlanta’s railroading history and to contributions made by African-American workers.”

In 1904, the site began as the home of Pratt Engineering and Machine Company, a parts manufacturer for sugar and fertilizer processing plants. In 1917, the property manufactured munitions used by soldiers in World War I.

unless approved by the Office of Design’s Historic Preservation staff.

Commissioner Tim Keane of the Department of City Planning said he has spoken with Atomic Entertainment and said the new owners will be involved in the preservation process.

“I have spoken with the owner and Atlanta is lucky to have them involved,” Keane said. “We expect a very positive collaboration with them to protect the historic buildings and the unique qualities of the site as they implement their plan for development.”

“This is a giant leap forward in our quest to preserve such a unique piece of our city’s history,” said Archibong, who represents this historic Kirkwood

Kids start hitting the books again this month

Local school systems will resume classes for the 2017-2018 academic year this month. Here are some helpful dates and information for those who have kids heading back to school.

Atlanta Public Schools

The new school year kicks off with a new, even earlier start date: Tuesday, Aug. 1. For those already thinking about vacations, the Thanksgiving break will be Nov. 20-24; winter break is Dec. 25 (last day of class is Friday, Dec. 22) until Jan. 8; spring break is April 2-6 and the last day of school will be May 25. For more information, visit atlantapublicschools.us.

City Schools of Decatur

Decatur’s public schools will also resume on Tuesday, Aug. 1, and the system will follow APS’s break schedule as above. For more information, visit csdecatur.net.

Fulton County Schools

The 2017-2018 school year starts on Monday, Aug. 7, for thousands of children in Fulton County. There will be a projected enrollment of approximately 96,500 students – an expected increase of about 800 students from the previous school year. The Thanksgiving holiday is Nov. 20-24; winter break is Dec. 22 to Jan. 8; spring break is

In 1922, Chicago-based Pullman Company purchased the property and turned it into a rail car repair station. It was during a time when the site was a major employer in Atlanta. In a segregated South, Pullman’s Atlanta shop manager began recruiting black workers from local porters and car cleaners. The company became one of the largest employers of AfricanAmericans in the country.

The Pratt-Pullman Yard is comprised of 100,000 square feet of historic buildings and sits on 25.88 acres. Atomic Entertainment wants to create studio space for young filmmakers and also provide an affordable housing, retail restaurants and office space.

Pullman Yard nominated as landmark site Back To School

April 2-6; and last day of class is May 24. For more information, visit fultonschools. org.

DeKalb County Schools

DeKalb public schools are also back in session on Monday, Aug. 7, with an enrollment projected at more than 100,000. Thanksgiving break is Nov. 20-24; winter break is Dec. 22-Jan. 4; spring break is April 2-6; and the last day of class is May 24. For more information, visit DeKalbSchoolsGA. org.

Lost-n-Found Youth opens new LGBT drop-in center

By Clare S. Richie

Lost-n-Found Youth (LNFY) just opened a 4,000-square-foot drop-in center on Lambert Drive, between Cheshire Bridge and Piedmont roads, more than quadrupling its former space. The new larger center is the fulfillment of a promise three years in the making from the nonprofit to Atlanta’s homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth.

“We do everything in our power to meet them where they are on their journey and try to help them figure out next steps,” said LNFY Executive Director Rick Westbrook, adding, “The drop-in center is a place LGBT youth come to sleep if need be, get a shower, food, new clothes, wash old clothes, relax, or just be themselves in a safe space.”

Programming at the center helps at risk and homeless LGBT youth up to age 25 build skills to live independently through expert lead cooking classes, spoken word, art classes, group therapy, job readiness programs, financial and informational classes, and support groups. In addition to the center, the nonprofit offers street outreach, a crisis hotline, and transitional housing. It’s the only Atlanta-based agency with this LGBTspecific service model.

When Diamond Carter first came to Atlanta in 2013 and was looking for support, she researched LGBT youth organizations and found LNFY. “This program has been phenomenal. It opened a lot of doors for me as a black transgender woman,” Carter said. “I’d never been in a place so accepting of me.”

Carter now works as a community activist at Solutions Not Punishment, a black, trans-led, collaborative working to tear down barriers in Atlanta, especially within the criminal justice system.

And the need for services for youth like Carter has grown dramatically since LNFY’s founding five and half years ago. “So many of them are out there on the streets,” Westbrook said.

At the nonprofits start, 900 square feet inside its Chantilly Drive thrift store were sufficient to welcome 75 youth visits a month. It soon became a more sought after refuge.

In 2015, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states cannot ban same-sex marriage and Caitlyn Jenner made headlines, youth visits more than tripled to 300plus per month. Last year that number spiked to more than 700 visits per month.

That increased demand is consistent with the shocking number of homeless youth in the city and neighboring suburbs, counted in the 2015 Atlanta Youth Count and Needs Assessment (AYCNA) led by Georgia State University. Researchers counted more than 3,300 homeless youth in metro Atlanta with 28 percent self-identified as LGBT.

Westbrook said LNFY’s new larger space makes it possible to offer more crisis care, on-site HIV testing, mental health evaluations, and life skill trainings.

“There are offices to meet with counselors, space for group activities, privacy for HIV testing, room for arts and crafts, and even more bathrooms,” Westbrook stated.

While excited about the new space, Westbrook says that homelessness, especially among LGBT “is not going away – it’s getting worse.” He’s in favor of the city working with the private sector to treat the homeless more humanely and find a way to help them.

That idea may soon be realized with the City of Atlanta recently announcing a $50 million Homeless Opportunity Bond that will fund ClearPath, a five-year plan “to make homelessness rare and brief.” One of the goals of the public-private partnership between the City of Atlanta and United Way for Greater Atlanta is to create 254 new housing interventions for homeless youth within the next three years.

“I hope the city actually collaborates with the people that are on the street and in the trenches actively doing the work. That will insure that the money will be utilized to its fullest potential,” Westbrook urged.

For more about LNFY and to fin out about voluteer orientation sessions on Aug. 10 and 12, visit lnfy.org.

Dr. Daniel Carr • Dr. Ethan Tolbert • Dr. Sheetal Patel • Dr. Laura Weakland

pets & their people

Susan James with Sadie and Tucker

Greg Wolters with Sam, Ellie and LJ

Stephanie Williams with Aimee

Ashley Corsello and Jack

Katherine McClure with Dixie and Nellie

Clare Richie and Traz

Emily Maryak with Max

Stacie Stepney and Lily

Kadi Weakland with Popcorn

Wisteria Grace Brady with Popcorn and Ginger

Karen Lynn with MiMee and Louey

Sarah Steward with Bagel and Bella

Pharan Evans with Golden

Alejandro Ruiz and Troy Koch with Lola Lee Hall with Big Ina

Andrew Bull with Auggie

Elizabeth Jones and Koji

Dennis de Gracia and Snickers

Bob Glascock and Mike Wright with Ella and Cooper

Kristin Klingshirn With Leroy Brown and Parker Jones

Bert Weiss and Riggins

Susan Tucker and Diego

Claire Asbell with Sadie

Pet Pick

Riley is a sweet but scared girl. Her perfect family will not have any other pets or any children, without exception. Riley grows extremely attached to adults in her life, but is reactive on a leash with most dogs and is alarmed of even the most well-behaved children. Due to Riley’s special needs we need to find the perfect match. Riley will be a loyal and loving companion for the right home – will you give this special girl a chance? For more information about adopting Riley, visit PAWS Atlanta at pawsatlanta.org or the shelter at 5287 Covington Highway in Decatur.

Fitbit for Fido

Wearable tech for pets is hot new trend

By Dan Popovic

Humans have fallen in love with wearable technology, like the ubiquitous Fitbit, to help them track their health. Now that craze has come to the world of pets.

One of the very first was Whistle, which not only acts as a GPS system in case your dog gets loose, but it can also track your dog’s activity and rest levels. There are some similar tracker/ monitors like FitBark and PetPace on the market now, too.

The latest creation is Vetrax, which is being built in Atlanta. Vetrax goes beyond basic activity tracking to monitor specific pet behaviors that can impact medical treatment for dogs. The system monitors shaking, scratching, running, walking, resting, sleeping and sleep quality. It can detect health challenges, like arthritis and dermatology issues, before the onset of clinical signs.

The device can also evaluate weight management and nutritional programs and review the activity of dogs recovering from surgery.

Pet related e-commerce is a rapidly growing industry: fom Chewy.com recently being acquired by PetSmart as the largest e-commerce acquisition in US history, to subscription startups targeting niche pet retail; hardware startups providing food, training, toy, waste management, and tracking solutions; and mobile app and/or software-based platforms that connect pet owners with pet service providers.

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PETS

Claire Struck with Chloe and Titus

Candler Park’s Water Ballerinas

By Joe Earle

On a sunny June afternoon, a line of women wearing black bathing suits, sparkling tiaras and long strings of pearl-colored beads strutted along the edge of the swimming pool at Candler Park.

“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” blared from a poolside boombox. Waving colorful swimming noodles over their heads, the eight ladies from the Candler Park Water Ballet Company danced their way into the pool and began twisting, shimmying and paddling through routines set to songs such as “Roll Out The Barrel” and “The Stripper.”

Artistic Director Patti Kunkle called out moves and shouted encouragement to the dancing women. “Have your hands on your hips, like you’re a hoochie coochie girl,” she yelled at one point.

For about a decade, the return of summer has brought the return of the water dancers of Candler Park. They call themselves “deep people in the shallow end” or “the watery tarts.” They range in age from 50 to 70.

“It’s a good group of women,” said Laura Nolan, who calls herself “co-founder and team philosopher” of the company. “Anybody who wants to show up for water ballet in the shallow end is going to have a good sense of humor.”

And there’s a lot of laughing out loud in this group. Their motto: “Wetter is better.”

“It’s completely goofy. Otherwise we wouldn’t do it,” water dancer Julie Bookman said. “It’s just about comedy in the water.”

The idea of a community water ballet troupe was born during an after-hours confab

at the Euclid Avenue Yacht Club, a venerable watering hole in nearby Little Five Points, as Nolan tells it.

She worked at the Yacht Club then, and one night after work, she said, several employees who were dancing in a booth joked they should found a water ballet. “We were always in the water, anyway,” she said. “I think it was just another way of being silly.”

They mentioned the idea to their friend Donna Palmer, who started recruiting others to join in. Kunkle, who calls herself “Queen of Little Five Points” and who had experience as a tap dancer, agreed to choreograph.

“I’m just a dancing fool,” Kunkle joked before admitting that her tap-dancing background offered little guidance for waterballet choreography because the audience can’t see the dancers’ feet under water.

But stylish steps aren’t the reason this company hits the water. Why do they it? “To get together and do something different that reflects this part of the world, our ability to let our freak flag fly,” Palmer said before pointing out that an ability to swim isn’t a prerequisite for joining the water ballet.

“It’s fun,” Palmer said. “It gets me out of the house. It’s something to look forward to, to seeing my friends. And my grandchildren love it. I want to show children that when you get older, you don’t have to sit at home and watch Oprah. It’s great to show the world I’m still here. I’m still crazy after all these years.”

The company now claims from 12 to 14 to 20 members, depending on who’s counting. They get together on Thursdays at the Candler Park Swimming Pool to practice their routines. They do a couple of performances each year, ending with their Grand Finale

show at the Candler Park pool on the Saturday before Labor Day.

Each dancer individualizes her own costume, but long strings of beads and tiaras are universal accessories. “We try to make it hoity and toity,” Palmer said.

And it seems that just about everybody in the company has been bestowed some sort of title. “Everybody deserves a title, just like everybody deserves a tiara,” Nolan said.

In recent years, on July 4, members of the company have staged “splashmob” performances, in which they’d drift into various nearby pools in ones and twos pretending to be regular holiday swimmers and then gather as a group and start dancing, astonishing onlookers. They’ve also performed at parties. “We perform for anybody who asks us,” Palmer said. “We usually don’t charge a fee, but we do ask for a cocktail.”

Hitting the pool in a tiara and fake pearls is reward enough, they say. After all, it gives them a chance to strut their stuff. “An older woman is supposed to have certain flaws,” Kunkle said. “We accentuate them. We’re proud of who we are.”

Besides, she said, “it’s a hoot.”

The Candler Park Water Ballet Company prepares to take to the water.

Photos by Joe Earle In front center, Patti Kunkle. Behind left to right, Cheryl Stauss, Julie Bookman, Donna Palmer, Ro Denham, Barb Tucker, Frani Green and Marie Bosler

wars: A little more cumin

The highlight of our Outer Banks vacation with Kristen’s extended family is marked by appetizer night. It started out as a casual break from more formal dinners but, naturally, we’ve managed to twist relaxation into a competition. Maybe next year we’ll try our hand at extreme hammocking, but for now the AppOff is the sport of choice.

TIMMY DADDY

By Tim Sullivan

I usually don’t enter the melee because, honestly, it’s a tremendous spectator event. I like to hide the colander and every spatula except the plastic one that was partially melted on the grill. Then I just fix myself a drink, kick back and watch the kitchen commotion. But I had to run to Wee Winks Market for ice anyway, so I took a gander at their offerings. They had everything I needed for my slider burgers plus a few new wrinkles to make them more “beachy.” I could use King’s Hawaiian buns, pickle chips and just a dollop of barbecue sauce.

And when the word ‘dollop’ popped into my head, I got a little cocky like maybe I’ll just go ahead and win this thing. I knew where the good spatula was hidden and Margo and Emma jumped on board as my sous chefs so the judges were sure to be wowed. The panel was anchored by Uncle Bob, whose experience in having food prepared for him is unparalleled. Tier two consisted of Kara and Dave. Both command a working knowledge of what “medium rare” should look like so they are a little intimidating. Junior judges Elliott and Aidan rounded out the esteemed jury.

We were called early in the competition (Team name: McDaddy’s) and I observed pure pleasure in the judges as they sampled the sliders. Uncle Bob offered that it was delicious but perhaps could have used a touch more cumin. My confidence was soaring though because I remembered from last year that Bob says that about every entry. But Dave had a follow up question: “Is that barbecue sauce I taste?”

“Yes!” I beamed, thinking, I know – so clever, right? A dollop!

“Did you make the sauce yourself?”

Huh? Who does that? Why would anyone do that when they already have it perfectly packaged at Wee Winks?

“No, I did not.”

I slunk to the far edge of the room and seethed as a parade of gourmet treats was offered to the judges. Cousin Kevin Ciotta and his partner Tracy dished up an asparagus plate that would cost about $97 at Bacchanalia. Young cousin Kevin

Murphy, a college kid, made a bacon wrapped something or other in a balsamic reduction sauce. Are you kidding me? I must have gone to the wrong college. Obviously these show-offs had been preparing for this all year.

The kids from the McLaughlin house teamed up on a scrumptious chocolateberry-crepe concoction. Now, had they simply used a jar of Nutella for their chocolate source I’m certain such a pedestrian culinary maneuver would not have escaped the discerning taste buds of our judges. No, there must be a cocoa plantation somewhere in Kitty Hawk. And cousin Dennis’ dish featuring a Tzatziki sauce was excellent, but let’s be straightforward here, I’m willing to bet that

no one could even spell Tzatziki without looking at the very bottle they bought at the store. In fact, I may propose next year we have a spelling bee instead because I happen to be a VERY GOOD SPELLER!

Well, I’ll tell you what Judge Dave, I’m not bitter – I’m inspired. I’m planting a tomato vine. I’m tapping maple trees in Vermont for the sweetest syrup and I’m going to the Iowa State Fair. When I find the most acclaimed, most prize-winning pig, I will capture its aura in a jar, and that my friend, will be the final ingredient to my homemade barbecue sauce that will blow your visor clear off your judgmental mind. That and maybe a little more cumin.

Memorial for Mayor Jackson unveiled at Oakland Cemetery

During a recent private ceremony, the widow of former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson unveiled a new permanent memorial at Oakland Cemetery. The 14.5-foot, 14-ton monument was dedicated on the 14th anniversary of Jackson’s death.

The obelisk is made of Africansourced honed black granite, and sits on a platform of grey Georgia granite. The sub-foundation beneath the granite base is solid concrete reinforced with rebar. Four hand-carved solid bronze discs on each facet of the crown represent four aspects of Jackson’s legacy: the City of Atlanta, the scales of justice, the Olympic rings, and the Atlanta airport.

Lush ivy surrounds the monument; in the Victorian burial tradition, ivy symbolizes strength, endurance, and determination. On one side of the monument, the first line of poet Ella Wheeler Wilcox’s “Will” is engraved.

“One of Maynard’s notable attributes was his strong will and determination,” said Valerie Richardson Jackson, Mayor Jackson’s widow. “The poem speaks of a determined soul, and it was only through Maynard’s determination in moving I-85 that a new airport terminal was built with minority as well as female participation.”

Mrs. Jackson personally designed the monument along with her brother, visual artist and photographer Monte Richardson. Brook Bolton, president and CEO of RobertsShields Memorial Company, produced and supervised the monument’s installation.

Mrs. Jackson said the monument was not only a tribute to the man whose honor, courage and vision created a new Atlanta, but also her personal tribute to their love and devotion to each other for over a quarter of a century.

“My ultimate goal was to build a fitting monument to this exceptional man, which will stand for centuries to come,” she said.

Tim Sullivan grew up in a large family in the Northeast and now lives with his small family in Oakhurst. He can be reached at tim@ sullivanfinerugs.com.

Hannah McLaughlin, Keira Stock, Aidan Stock and Ella McLaughlin present their winning appetizer.

Monte Richardson and Valerie Jackson

Extreme Professionals

Two Intowners channel their work downtime into athletics

By Grace Huseth

A Fortune magazine article cited a recent survey that said the average U.S. whitecollar worker sends 19 emails and reads 29 work emails during the weekend, and 79 percent admit to checking work email on vacation. More disappointing, these check-ins often result in a “humblebrag,” when overworking is glamourized to show a character trait of a hard worker. The reality is that workaholic tendencies will result in burnout if there is no outlet for disconnecting.

When two Intown business professionals decided to step away from their desks for some downtime, they took it to the extreme. Literally.

Old Fourth Ward resident Sean Bennett is an endurance athlete who balances extreme training with his career as an accounting manager with UHY Advisors. As a manager he manages multiple projects at once and travels 75 percent of the time, yet still manages to compete in triathlons. This summer, he recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro.

“I’m very good at shutting work out during my training sessions,” Bennett said. “That is my release and escape. All technology goes to the wayside and I focused just on being in the moment.”

Last October, Bennett was presented with the idea to tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro through urgings of his friends at Team In Training, an endurance sports training program that is also fundraises for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. He and his triathlete father decided to take on a challenge that would get them off the concrete and into the mountains.

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Despite his travels, Bennett trained 14 hours a week, with all day hikes on Saturdays in the North Georgia Mountains and closer-totown hikes at Sweetwater Creek State Park. The big climb up Mt. Kilimanjaro was a six-day ascent and two day descent, averaging 44 miles round trip, and 11 days away from the office. Thankfully, getting back to work was easier than he thought.

“I picked right back up because UHY is team oriented and I made sure to transition things to team members during the build up to my hike,” he said. “I was able to step away and be out of pocket for two weeks and then slide right back into the role I left.”

Bennett advises open communication with management, not only with career goals but also with personal goals. “You may not know you have flexibility because you may not have asked for it. A lot of people are afraid to ask, but in today’s world you shouldn’t be afraid to express what is important to you.”

Atlanta endurance athlete Danielle Grabol also communicates her sports goals with her company. Career-wise she’s known as VP of Operations at Personal Care in Decatur, but in the triathlon world she is known as an inspiration. Last summer, Grabol became the first woman to compete and complete the ultimate Ironman event, Epic 5, which consists of five iron-distance triathlons (140.6 miles each), on five islands of Hawaii, in just five days.

Grabol helps provide home care services to senior adults with Personal Care. She manages employees, operational work and works in client relations. And after a long day at the office, she’ll jump on her bike for hours. Even though it’s difficult for Grabol to anticipate her work schedule, that doesn’t stop her training program.

“Because my work is so emotionally draining, I turn to my physical endeavors,” Grabol said. “Compared to the stuff I have to go through at work every day, the bike ride is a treat. It grounds me, the training gets rid of a lot of my energy and it’s a huge outlet for me emotionally because the work I do is about end of life issues. When you are dealing with people who are sick, it makes you value and appreciate your own health that much more.”

Grabol says she tries to model behavior she wants her employees to have, but that does not include working around the clock. Because her training is so time intensive, she’ll admit to responding to emails while sitting on her stationary bike, however she won’t press send until work hours.

“Training teaches you discipline. If you are goal oriented and disciplined enough to follow though and make that goal a reality, you are given a new level of confidence,” Grabol said. “I feel more confident in the work that I do when I go out and do these crazy races. If I was that determined to make this happen, the challenges in my work life seem next to nothing.”

Sean Bennett, left, with his father atop Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Danielle Grabol

Start:ME Up

Small business accelerator aids local entrepreneurs

By Grace Huseth

There are three things small business owners need to be successful: knowledge, networks and capital. Entrepreneurs in Clarkston and East Lake are catching on fast thanks to an accelerator program that provides training and support for local small businesses.

For four years, Start:ME Accelerator has hosted an intensive, 14-week journey that helps entrepreneurs start from an idea to expanding their business. Erin Igleheart, program manager, said Start:ME was developed and delivered by Emory University’s Goizueta Business School as a way to engage local talent.

“Our belief is that small businesses are critical to making neighborhoods vibrant and strong, and that there are promising entrepreneurs living in all communities,” Igleheart said. “It really is open to anyone who has a promising business idea, or is already operating a promising business.”

Each program is part of a coalition of business schools, local partners and community organizations, like the East Lake Foundation and Friends of Refugees, as well as key stakeholders to tailor the program to each community. They fundraise as a coalition to make sure the program is free and accessible to entrepreneurs regardless of background.

Start:Me has operated five cohorts in Clarkston since 2013 and three in East Lake since 2015. Over the years, 110 microbusinesses and blossomed under the program and 89 percent of the graduates are still active with their businesses. Over 50 percent of those businesses employ others, resulting in 186 local jobs in the community.

Recent Start:Me graduate Paris Campeau learned more about marketing campaigns and business practices to expand her boutique spa Indigo Wellness in Kirkwood to include a yoga studio and community center.

“Start:ME is a great place for people just starting out because it goes from concept and idea all the way to opening your business,” Campeau said.

Campeau said her Start:ME program met weekly on Tuesday nights from 6-9 p.m. Each week, students would update each other on the progress of their businesses, listen to a lecture with the topic of the

week and then break into small groups led by mentors relevant to each business, from bookkeepers to bakers. The Start:ME program typically begins with writing a business plan and then progresses to insurance, marketing strategies and cost analysis.

Campeau leaned heavily on her mentors Jessica Woodside, of Woodhouse Consulting, and Bryan Alli, a business transformation

consultant, both of whom she remains close with today. “Even though the program is over, I still meet with my mentors. It’s a lifelong mentorship,” Campeau said.

Ajah Myers, a 2017 Start:Me graduate, said it was competitive to join the East Lake program. Once her lengthy application was turned in, she pitched her business plan to entrepreneurs, not unlike “Shark Tank.” Out of nearly 90 applicants, Myer’ behavior and therapeutic services business plan was one of the 16 approved to attend the program.

Myers offers tutoring and therapy services to children and adults with developmental disabilities and strives to put the client first – sometimes at the sake of her business. Now she’s able to provide both the best care and use the best business practices by keeping a Start:ME mantra in mind.

“‘Show me the money!’ was a phrase we said over and over,” Myers recalled.

Myers found a new strength in pitching her business. Myer’s mentor, Brian Cohen, helped her communicate her elevator pitch, in both 30 second sound bites to five minute deliveries for bankers and loan officers. “He made me pitch constantly and now I don’t feel anxiety when doing pitches,” she said.

“Now we have a family and meet constantly to work as a team to be successful. We help each other build our businesses.”

For more information on the program, visit startmeaccelerator.org.

Entrepreneurs meet regularly to discuss their new businesses at Start: ME

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High Score!

By Grace Huseth

Remember how you used to boast about your high score in Centipede? Now you and your friends can relive those 80s glory days at Joystick Gamebar.

This August celebrates the five-year anniversary of the old school arcade located on Edgewood Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward. “Joystick is a nerdy guys’ bar with great cocktails,” said owner Brandon Ley. “It’s just one of those places where it is easy to feel welcome.”

Ley said he and co-owner Johnny Martinez first bonded over their search for the goofy first date spot. Now they have collected 21 machines in total. Ms. Pac Man greets you as you enter the main arcade bar, followed by a parlor with board games and pinball machines. The “spaceship” room in back often hosts events like comic night and karaoke.

Just like back in the day, all game cabinets and pinball machines at the Joystick Gamebar are only one quarter to play The bar features games like Galaga, Metal Slug and Donkey Kong. If you stop by during the day, you may be able to spot Jeff King, Atlanta’s famed high score player.

“He’s flirting with the world record at this point in Ms. Pac Man and he’s absolutely the high scorer in Galaga,” said Martinez. “He’s also incredibly polite and will step aside for kids to enjoy it as well.”

That’s the great thing about Joystick: all ages can enjoy the atmosphere of the arcade. The first Saturday of every month is Saturday Morning Cartoons, from noon to 3 p.m. Joystick donates a portion of the profits to Our House, a shelter that supports homeless families, and encourages kids to participate in drives to collect necessary items like diapers.

While Joystick is all about the games, the adventure continues on with their large cocktail selection that offers a variety of spirits that are approachable and delicious.

“We want to carry something you haven’t tried before,” Ley said. “It’s like a new game that comes out for a consul; you don’t know if you’ll like it, but a friend will recommend something and insist you have to try it.”

Joystick’s boozy slushies are distinct and refreshing. The smooth Vietnamese Coffee Bourbon and gin Blackberry Bramble ($7) are made in house by Chef Rajan Mistry.

Rather than running their own kitchen, Joystick offers the space to new chefs who don’t have the resources to open their own brick and mortar restaurant. “We want them to use it as a stepping stone for other aspirations,” Ley said.

Illegal Food, a burger and barbecue joint, got their start at Joystick and now have their own restaurant in Virginia-Highland.

Chef Mistry is currently the menu muse at Joystick, creating classic arcade bar food with an Indian twist. Masala French Fries and Bacon Curry Cheeseburgers and just two of the unique American and Indian fusions Chef Mistry has dreamed up.

Ley and Martinez look forward to another five years in Edgewood thanks to the strength of small businesses in the area. Martinez said early every business in their cluster is owner operated, which creates a close-knit community. “It was almost like moving into a dorm, everyone was so supportive. Edgewood feels like a true urban city. It’s got history and now it’s becoming the most diverse street for going out,” Martinez said.

Joystick is located at 427 Edgewood Ave. SE. For more information, visit joystickgamebar. com.

Joystick Gamebar owners Brandon Ley and Johnny Martinez.

New co-working spaces open in Midtown, Candler Park

Two new co-working and creator spaces have opened Intown. WeWork held a ribbon cutting June 13 for its new space at Colony Square in Midtown, while Wondershop has opened its doors in Candler Park.

The WeWork space has private offices with room for up to 40 employees, comfortable nooks, conference rooms and quiet phone booths, community bars, pantries and complimentary fruit water and coffee. There’s also easy access to restaurants, coffee shops and other amenities inside Colony Square.

For more information, visit WeWork.com/ ColonySquare.

A “community co-working space” called Wondershop has opened a 1,500-squarefoot space at the corner of Oakdale and McLendon. Behind the orange door, freelancers, business startups, and contractors can rent a dedicated desk or just drop in. According to founder Boyd Baker, the long-term plan is to have monthly members working at dedicated desks or at coffeeshop-style table. For more information, visit WondershopATL.com.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

Developer Jamestown plans to expand Ponce City Market in the Old Fourth Ward with new buildings, including residential, office space and a proposed hotel. Two new buildings are planned alongside the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail: one for residential and the other geared toward tech companies seeking work space. The surface parking lot at the corner of Ponce de Leon Avenue and Glen Iris Drive might become a hotel, while a new building is also being considered for the courtyard facing North Avenue –possibly an Apple store.

Jamestown spent millions transforming the historic, century-old former Sears, Roebuck & Company building into a mixed-use development with high-end retail, restaurants, offices and apartments.

The Stockyards development in West Midtown has landed a 19,000 square-foot lease with New York-based co-working provider, Industrious. Stockyards, a joint venture between Federal Capital Partners and Westbridge, is adapting three historic

warehouses into a 142,500 square-foot mixed-use project. The development is now 75 percent pre-leased ahead of the completion of phase one, which will be delivered later this summer. The co-working company joins Fitzgerald and Co. and Momentum Worldwide, both owned by InterPublic Group; Mannington Mills Inc., and Donetto, a new restaurant concept from The Indigo Road. The Painted Duck, a sister concept to the Painted Pin in Buckhead, signed a 24,500 square foot. Both Donetto and The Painted Duck plan to open later this summer. Stockyards occupies three acres on the corner of 10th Street and Brady Avenue in West Midtown.

C.H. Robinson recently signed an eight-year lease and will be moving its Atlanta offices to the Fairlie-Poplar district in Downtown. The logistics provider plans to hire approximately 550 people in the Atlanta market over the next eight years. With the move, the company’s footprint will increase to nearly 40,000 square feet of office space and 135,000 square feet of leased warehouse space.

Select Shades - A Sunglass Experience is open at Inman Quarter on North Highland Avenue in Inman Park. The shop offers well-known and designer shades by Ray-Ban, Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade, Burberry, Tom Ford, Dior, Gucci and many more. For more information, visit selectshades.com.

Portman Holdings has revealed plans and renderings for two new towers at Technology Square in Midtown. Portman officials unveiled the high-rise project at 740 West Peachtree Street at the Midtown Development Review Committee (DRC) meeting on July 18. The development will feature two independent towers built above a parking podium for 1,100 cars on approximately 1.7 acres along West Peachtree Street, between 3rd and 4th Streets. The first tower is 350,000 square feet of office space with 5,500 square feet for two bank branches and about 1,800 square feet for retail. The second

tower includes another 250,000 square feet of office space, with 140 apartments on the upper floors. The ground floor of the second tower will provide around 5,000 square feet of retail space, with an emphasis on food and beverage. The two new towers would be located just south of the 21-story Coda development, expected to open in 2019, which will feature office and research space for Georgia Tech and the private sector. The development, which incorporates the historic Crum & Forster building facade, will also have a highperformance data center for research and development.

Home goods shop Serena & Lily will open its first brick-and-mortar store in the southeast this fall at the Westside Provisions District in the space once occupied by Star Provisions. The 2,700 square-foot design shop will feature samples of every style from Serena & Lily’s signature bedding, original textiles, wallpaper, rug collections and a curated assortment of furniture, lighting, outdoor furniture, upholstery and décor.

Go Green Biking through history, street art and neighborhoods

“Stop,” shout 10 bicyclists, rather tentatively, in response to a command from Chief Happiness Officer Robyn Elliott. Again, and louder, demands Elliott, the owner of Bicycle Tours of Atlanta, who is giving a safe riding orientation before the group leaves Studioplex in the Old Fourth Ward.

Practicing, we all yell louder – to Elliott’s satisfaction – and then pedal down Auburn Avenue on our high-quality commuter bikes to our first stop near the Eastside BeltLine Trail; here, we learn about the urban redevelopment project and view a wall mural with huge, bright goldfish that I’d never noticed before. It was the first of many surprises that I was to encounter on the three-hour, eight-mile bike adventure that Elliott calls her “Fall in Love with Atlanta” tour.

Farther down the BeltLine, we come upon William Massey’s amazing sculpture of found objects entitled Seen. Known. Created over three

ABOVE THE WATER LINE

By Sally Bethea Sally Bethea

is the retired executive

director of

Chat-

tahoochee Riverkeeper (chattahoochee.org),

a nonprofit environmental organization whose mission is to protect and restore the drinking water supply for nearly four million people.

months with the involvement of a broad range of people, including homeless adults, this outstanding art piece invites viewing from different perspectives.

A construction inspector who has lived Intown for nearly two decades, Robyn Elliott knew that it was time to find a new career when the Great Recession hit in 2008 and the development industry crashed. On the Sunday following the tornado that struck Downtown that year, Robyn took out-of-town friends on a bike ride to show off her city and check out the storm damage. Her friends, who had been traveling to Atlanta for years, were “blown away by how amazing the city was,” she says, and she realized that lots of interesting venues were within easy biking distance. She had found a new career and a passion.

At 50, Robyn started Bicycle Tours of Atlanta: the city’s #1 Outdoor Activity according to TripAdvisor and the only bike tour company in Atlanta open daily. Eight years later, she has a staff of five and

12 additional workers, one of whom is Richard Turner, a friend who introduced me to Robyn. Her customer breakdown: 70 percent tourists (a third of whom are local) and 30 percent corporate groups.

Robyn’s love of the city – its history, art, culture and people – and her deep knowledge are abundantly evident whether she is in the midst of a tour narrative or talking to a new acquaintance about her work. What does she like most about the job? “The work is so rewarding, especially learning from my customers. I love how much this experience has changed my view of the world,” she says.

Our tour group is diverse: a seasoned cyclist from England, a couple from Germany with their local friend, a family from Ohio and a couple from Atlanta who take bike tours when they travel and wanted to experience one at home.

From the BeltLine, we head to Little Five Points, a shopping mecca for the past century now offering eclectic merchandise, and a brief stop at Junkman’s Daughter, a favorite haunt of my sons when they were teens. But, who knew that the design on the building’s exterior was the creation of a tattoo artist said to have much preferred human flesh as a canvas?

Past small bungalows and huge historic houses, we enter Inman Park: home of Coca-Cola’s Asa Candler who

bought the formula for the famous soft drink for $2,300 in 1888 and Ernest Woodruff who bought the company from him in 1919 for $25 million and helped the city weather the Depression. It was Ernest’s son, Robert Woodruff, who played a key role in bringing white and black leaders together during the 1960s.

We talk about the Carter Center, Freedom Parkway controversy and linear parks that now exist. Pedaling on, we visit the Krog Street Tunnel, Cabbagetown, Forward Warrior Murals, Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill, Oakland Cemetery, Ebenezer Church, King Center and more. This fall, Robyn will launch a Civil Rights and Social Justice Tour that explores the city’s racial history from the Civil War to present day. I can’t wait to take this new tour.

Since she was a child, Robyn has always had a relationship with bikes. Now, she’s helping hundreds of new friends (with and without biking skills) make connections to our city and a healthy, green mode of transportation every week.

For more information and to schedule a bike tour, see biketoursatl. com.

Above Photo: A Bicycle Tours of Atlanta group poses before the city on the Jackson Street Overpass.

Commuter Options

MARTA joins forces with Relay Bike Share program

MARTA and the city’s Relay Bike Share have officially launched a partnership to enhance commuter options across Atlanta.

“We believe our partnership with City of Atlanta will be extremely beneficial as we look for ways to enhance the ridership experience while addressing last mile connectivity for our customers,” said MARTA’s GM/CEO Keith Parker. “Relay Bike Share offers residents, visitors and families an affordable and fun way to travel and see the sights of Atlanta.”

Following the ride through midtown Atlanta, participants will gather for an official ribbon cutting, live music and fun activities.

MARTA recently installed 37 bikes racks and repair stands at 37 train stations (except for the airport). Each repair stand is equipped with bike maintenance tools and tire pumps. All of the new bike racks are located within the fare gates, protected from the elements and under MARTA’s security surveillance system.

All MARTA buses are outfitted with bike racks to accommodate cyclist in areas outside of the rail access areas.

Relay Bike Share stations are now located at seven MARTA stations: Arts Center, Civic Center, Inman Park/Reynoldstown, King Memorial, Peachtree Center, West End and North Avenue.

Since launching in June 2016, more than 11,500 people have ridden over 33,500 trips and 80,000 miles. More than 3,200 bike rides have initiated from a MARTA station since the Relay bikes became available to rent in late April.

ECO BRIEFS

The Atlanta City Council has agreed to purchase and install solar panels on the BeltLine’s Westside Trail at Aluma Farm, the trail’s first agriculture site around the 22mile corridor. The panels will be installed by Sept. 30 and generate 2.8 kilowatts of solar energy using photovoltaic panels. Aluma Farm will be totally “off-grid” and not pull power from the BeltLine’s main public utility provider. A nearby dashboard will provide real time updates on energy usage.

The City of Atlanta has partnered with non-profit organization The Recycling Partnership to launch its Feet on the Street recycling education initiative. The goal of the pilot project is to reduce contamination of recycling in the city’s single stream curbside recycling bins. Throughout August, a group of city employees will inspect recycling bins along four of the city’s recycling routes in Ansley Park, Collier Heights, Grant Park and the West End to determine if they are acceptable or contaminated with non-recyclable contents. A tag will be left behind asking residents to correct the contamination so that the recycling can be collected the following week.

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The Studio One Last Taste of Summer

August is full of arts, crafts, music and fun

By Collin Kelley

Just because school is back in session doesn’t mean summer is over. There are still plenty of fun events all month long and into the Labor Day weekend. From arts and crafts to book and fantasy festivals, check out this list of things to do in August.

► THE GRANT PARK SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL

This year’s event is Aug. 26-27 and kicks off on Saturday morning with the Adams Realtors 5K Run for the Park. There will be two artist markets, live music and a kids’ zone featuring games and activities. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Visit summershadefestival.org for more details and full schedule of events.

◄ DRAGON CON

PIEDMONT

▲ DECATUR BBQ BLUES & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

The annual festival returns to Oakhurst Village on Aug. 12 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event will feature a diverse lineup of blues and bluegrass artists including Porch Bottom Boys, Donna Hopkins Band, Grizzly Goat, Beverly Guitar Watkins, Greg Humphrey’s Electric Trio, Vista String Band, The Georgia Flood and Farewell Angelina. Tickets are now on sale for $15. For more information, visit decaturbbqfestival.com.

This year’s festival is Aug. 19-20 and will feature more than 200 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalwork, glass blowers, jewelers and crafters. There will also be artist demonstrations, kids area, live music and food trucks. Admission to the festival is free. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more details, visit piedmontparkartsfestival.com.

AJC

Hundreds of authors will descend on Decatur over Labor Day weekend for three days of readings, signings and interactions with readers. New York Times editor Carolyn Ryan and Washington Post reporter Wesley Lowery will headline a panel of journalists discussing the importance of journalism during the keynote event on Sept. 1. Henry Winkler (yes, The Fonz from “Happy Days”) will also be a featured guest, singing his latest children’s book. For a full line-up of events and authors, visit decaturbookfestival.com.

Sci-fi, fantasy and gaming fans will descend on Downtown over Labor Day weekend to meet up with actors, authors, artists and more. Some of this year’s special guests include Lena Headey from “Game of Thrones,” comic book legend Stan Lee and Captain Kirk himself, Williams Shatner. Most of the cast of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” will be on hand, as will many “Doctor Who” favorites including Matt Smith, Alex Kingston, Karen Gillian, Billie Piper and John Barrowman. The annual parade of costumed characters down Peachtree Street will be held on Sept. 2 at 10 a.m. For a detailed schedule and to register, visit dragoncon.org.

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center offers vast array of art classes

By Isadora Pennington

The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center in Druid Hills is known for its 1920s Gothic splendor and as a location for special events, but a vast array of arts and culture classes are also held there on a regular basis, too.

Callanwolde offerss more than 100 classes inclduing jewelry making, metalsmithing, painting, drawing, photography, pottery, textiles, writing, and an extensive dance program for both kids and adults.

“The children who attend Callanwolde really feel aspects of being at home,” explained Jerylann Warner, the Director of Callanwolde School of Dance. “They spend invaluable time growing within the

discipline while in this incredibly beautiful setting where they can also take voice, music, and visual art lessons.”

Beyond classes that are held in the space, students are able to earn National Honor Society credits for their participation, and Callanwolde also collaborates with Intown Montessori school in a cultural and humanitarian effort to connect with children in Havana, Cuba.

Jazz on the Lawn is another popular mainstay of the summer, and fans can bring blankets and picnics to the Callanwolde Amphitheater to enjoy music by some of Atlanta’s top jazz musicians.

For more about classes and events at Callanwolde, locate at 980 Briarcliff Road, visit callanwolde.org.

PARK SUMMER ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

DECATUR BOOK FESTIVAL

Autoeater

New Midtown sculpture turns heads

By Collin Kelley

The new sculpture that replaced the Rockspinner at the intersection of Peachtree and 10th streets in the heart of Midtown has many folks scratching their heads. Some ideas from social media: a car in a condom, a space slug from “Star Wars,” the graboid from the monster movie “Tremors” and a thoughtful meditation on the city’s traffic.

The 16-ton Carrara marble sculpture, “Autoeater,” depicts a Fiat Panda being devoured by some kind of worm-like shape. According to media release by the Midtown Alliance, the sculpture “invites comment on Atlanta’s relationship with the automobile in the context of one of the city’s most walkable urban districts.”

Members of Midtown Alliance’s public art committee helped review the proposals and selected the “Autoeater,” created by German artists Venske & Spänle. The artists began collaborating in 1991, and have developed a reputation for their enigmatic marble sculptures, which have been shown in museums, galleries, art fairs and public art projects worldwide on five continents. In Atlanta, they are represented by Marcia Wood Gallery.

The piece was shipped to Midtown from a marble quarry in northern Italy, near Tuscany. The marble comes from the same quarry that was a meeting place for major artists from the 50s and 60s such as Henry Moore, Hans Arp, Joan Miro, and, notably, Isamo Noguchi, the artist who designed the modernist playscape in Piedmont Park in 1976.

The smooth marble form of the base is juxtaposed with the machine-made body of the Fiat Panda, a popular mass-produced Italian automobile from the 1980s. The Panda was designed as a cheap, easy to operate, no-frills utility vehicle for city driving. The three-door model, with a two-cylinder engine, epitomized practicality. Driving a Panda was part of an alternative lifestyle in the youth of the artists, according to the media release.

The sculpture will be on display for three years.

Read This!

2017 Books All Georgians Should Read revealed

Georgia Center for the Book has selected the works of prize-winning authors and illustrators with Georgia connections for the 2017 lists of the “Books All Georgians Should Read” and “Books All Young Georgians Should Read.”

The authors and illustrators will be honored on Thursday, Aug. 17, at a free, public event at 7:30 p.m. in the Decatur Library Auditorium, 215 Sycamore Street in downtown Decatur.

“The lists are a wonderful way to honor the extraordinary talent we have here in Georgia,” said Joe Davich, executive director for Georgia Center for the Book. “The lists give us the opportunity to inform readers across our state about the contributions to Georgia’s literary heritage, and a platform to celebrate the diverse body of work produced by Georgians.”

The new list of “Books All Georgians Should Read” includes three works of fiction, four of non-fiction, a cookbook, and two collection of poetry. The list of “Books All Young Georgians Should Read” includes three picture books, one Early Reader Book, one book for middle school readers, three books for young adults and two graphic novels. Both 2017 lists are the result of months of discussions by the Advisory Council, which considered over 80 books by Georgians, or about Georgia.

2017 BOOKS ALL GEORGIANS SHOULD READ

● Lisa Hodgens, editor—A Lillian Smith Reader

● Jonathan Rabb—Among the Living: A Novel

● Patrick Phillips—Blood at the Root: A Racial Cleansing in America

● Ted Geltner—Blood, Bone and Marrow: A Biography of Harry Crews

● Thomas Mullen—Darktown: A Novel

● Theresa Davis—Drowned: A Mermaid’s Manifesto

● Judson Mitcham; Michael David Murphy; Karen L. Paty—Inspired Georgia

● Asha Gomez—My Two Souths: Blending the Flavors of India into a Southern Kitchen

● Taylor Brown—A River of Kings: A Novel

● Melissa Fay Greene—The Underdogs

2017 BOOKS ALL YOUNG GEORGIANS SHOULD READ

● Tonya Bolden—Crossing Ebenezer Creek

● Eleanor Davis; Drew Weing—Flop to the Top

● Jaye Robin Brown—Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit

● Steve Nedvidek; Ed Crowell; Jack Lowe; J. Moses Nester, Illustrator; S.J. Miller, Illustrator—The Jekyll Island Chronicles, Volume 1: A Machine Age War

● Rep. John Lewis; Andrew Aydin; Nate Powell—March, Volume 3

● Laurel Snyder—Orphan Island

● Thomas Gonzalez, Illustrator—Seven and a half Tons of Steel

● Acree Graham Macam; Natalie Nelson, Illustrator—The King of Birds

● Marie Marquardt—The Radius of Us

● Carmen Agra Deedy—The Rooster Who Would Not Be

Your family’s most comprehensive online guide to arts and cultural entertainment Visit AtlantaPlanIt.org for more upcoming events.

Visual Arts

Salon Style: TEW Galleries shows buyers how to group several works of art together to give spaces a more ecclectic, individual looks in it’s summer exhibit. Closes Aug. 19. Free. tewgalleries.com

Piedmont Park Arts Festival: More than 250 art vendors flood Piedmont Park for this annual festival that also includes artist demonstrations, live acoustic music, a street market, children’s play area plus festival foods and beverages with healthy alternatives. Aug. 19 and 20. Free. affps.com

Threads of Time: Tradition and Change in Indigenous American Textiles: The Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University hosts a new exhibit that showcases the staggering breadth and depth of indigenous American fiber arts ranging from weavings in cotton and camelid hair, to feather work and items made from plant. Opens Aug. 17. Free to $8. carlos.emory.edu

Expanding Roots Exhibition: In this body of oil paintings on view at the Decatur Arts Alliance Gallery, artist Shannon Willow created “Talking Trees” to remind viewers to stand rooted in the practice of self-care and authenticity. Closes Aug. 26. Free. decaturartsalliance.org

Anne Morgan’s War: American Women Rebuilding France, 1917–1924: Atlanta History Center showcases photographs and rare silent film footage that bring to life the extraordinary work undertaken by 350 American women – all volunteers – who left comfortable lives in the United States to devote themselves to humanitarian aid in France during the Great War. Daily. Free to $16.50. atlantahistorycenter.com

Ebola: People + Public Health + Political Will: This exhibition at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum is an investigation of the historic 2014-16 Ebola Fever Virus epidemic in West Africa, the United States, and around the world. Monday through Friday. Free. cdc.gov/museum

Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: Journey to Goblin City: In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Jim Henson’s fantastical film Labyrinth, Center for Puppetry Arts invites guests to journey into the magical world of the Goblin King with its immersive special exhibit. Tuesday through Sunday. Free to $10.50. puppet.org

Painter and Poet: The Wonderful World of Ashley Bryan: This exhibition at the High Museum of Art showcases the breadth and depth of Ashley Bryan’s creative output, from the dynamic figure drawings he made while serving as a soldier in World War II, to his first published book in 1967, to his 2016 book Freedom Over Me. Tuesday through Sunday. Free to $14.50. high.org

of Contemporary Art of Georgia, Lauri Stallings offers a show and meditation on choreography at the intersection of what is social, political, timely and sincere, and the moving artists of glo will occupy the space daily during the exhibit. Tuesday through Saturday. $5 to $8. mocaga.org

Performing Arts

Nickelback: See Nickelback in concert with Daughtry and Shaman’s Harvest at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. Aug. 2. $25 to $125. vzwamp.com

BET Presents Celebration Of Gospel: Hosted by comedian and actor Jonathan Slocumb, the Gospel music extravaganza will include performances from award winning and chart-topping performers from Gospel and R&B at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Aug. 4. $46.50 to $86.50. cobbenergycentre.com

Graceland Presents Elvis: Live in Concert: As Graceland prepares to mark the milestone 40th anniversary of Elvis’ passing this August, it has announced the U.S. debut of “Elvis: Live in Concert,” an all-new concert production featuring Elvis Presley on the big screen accompanied by a live orchestra, coming to 12 cities, including Chastain Park Amphitheater, this August. Aug. 17. $45 to $258. classicchastain.com

Little Shop of Horrors: Don’t miss Actor’s Express’ horrifically hilarious take on one of the longest-running musicals in offBroadway history in which budding botanist Seymour Krelbourn discovers a new species of plant that he thinks will bring him unending fame and fortune but turns out to be a bloodthirsty carnivore bent on world domination. Closes Aug. 20. $21 to $45. actors-express.com

Mammoths and Mastodons: Joust with mammoth tusks, touch the teeth of the colossal mastodon, and feel mammoth fur between your fingertips in this exhibit at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Closes Aug. 27. Free to $18. fernbankmuseum.org

Rwandan Reconciliation: Four Rwandan artists whose lives were impacted by the violence of 1994 present their most recent, vibrantly colorful paintings that joyfully celebrate the rebirth of Rwandan culture in this exhibit at Oglethorpe University Museum of Art. Tuesday through Sunday. Free to $5. museum.oglethorpe.edu

the room for tender choreographies: For her solo exhibition at the Museum

Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival: See all eight films in the Harry Potter series on the Fox Theatre’s big screen over the course of three days. Aug. 5 through 13. $12.50 per film. foxtheatre.org

3 Doors Down: Hailing from the small town of Escatawpa, Mississippi, 3 Doors Down hit their peak in the 2000s with a string of post-grunge singles, most notably “Kryptonite,” “When I’m Gone,” and the ballad “Here Without You.” See them at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Aug. 11. $33 to $66.50. cobbenergycentre.com

An American

In Paris: An American in Paris presented at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre is the new hit musical about an American solider, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. Aug. 15 through 20. $30 to $125. foxtheatre.or

Mother Goose: Humpty Dumpty, Little Bo Peep, Jack & Jill and all the other citizens of Rhymeville need as much help as possible to look for clues and solve the mystery of Mother Goose’s whereabouts in this show at Center for Puppetry Arts. Opens Aug. 15. $19.50. puppet.org

Joe Rogan: Visit the Tabernacle to see Joe Rogan, a standup comedian for over 20 years with an inquisitive and intense comedic style, who is host of The Joe Rogan Experience, a comedy podcast on iTunes. Aug. 25. $39.50 to $65. tabernacleatl.com

Yacht Rock Revival: The Yacht Rock Revue calls itself the greatest show on surf and the finest tribute to ‘70s light rock to ever perform anywhere, including this show at The Tabernacle. Aug. 26. $35 to $40. tabernacleatl.com

Blackberry Daze: In Horizon Theatre’s play it is the end of The Great War and a small Virginia town is rocked by secrets and seduction as Herman Camm, a provocative gambler, weaves his magic on the lives of three unsuspecting women. Closes Aug. 27. $25 to $35. horizontheatre.com

Glengarry Glen Ross: Pinch ‘n’ Ouch Theatre’s show depicts cutthroat real estate salesmen trying to grind out a living by pushing plots of land on reluctant buyers in a never-ending scramble for their share of the American dream. Thursday through Saturday. $20 to $30. pnotheatre.org

The Taming of the Shrew: The wild and unwed Katherine is thrown together with the boisterous and charismatic bachelor Petruchio and thus begins Shakespeare’s fiercest and most controversial battle of the sexes in this play at New American Shakespeare Tavern. Opens Aug. 26. $15 to $39. shakespearetavern.com

Shoes: Pleasure and Pain: SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film presents this exhibit that explores the creativity, cultural significance and transformative power of shoes. Closes Aug. 13. Free to $10. scadfash.org

News You Can Eat

Restaurants � Reviews � Events

Hot Eats, Cool Treats

More eateries opening around Intown as summer ends

By Collin Kelley

Just a few months ago – in the May issue to be exact – we featured an extensive roundup of all the new restaurants opening in the city. Three months later, we’re back with yet another list that is sure to sate any appetite, whether it’s for Italian food, tapas, a burger or dessert. Please note that the restaurants in the list were expected to be open by INtown’s press time or during the month of August (unless otherwise noted). Be sure to check each restaurant’s website for details, since opening dates can change.

ALLORA

Concentrics Restaurants has replaced Lobby at the Twelve Hotel in Atlantic Station with this new Italian eaterie. The menu includes pizzas, pastas, insalatas and small plates. For more, visit facebook.com/allora.

BABALU TAPAS & TACOS

Located at Alta Midtown at the corner of West Peachtree and Peachtree Place, the menu feature Latin dishes like panroasted redfish, Duck confit tacos, and Creole shrimp and grits. For more information, visit Atlanta.eatBabalu.com.

BAR AMERICANO AND BAR CREMA

The creators of The Pinewood in Decatur and The Mercury at Ponce City Market are opening two Italianthemed concepts at 56 East Andrews Drive in Buckhead. Bar Americano will serve lunch and dinner, while the adjacent Bar Crema will offer foodto-go along with desserts, gelato and coffees. Check out their Facebook page at BarAmericanoAtl for opening details.

EMERALD

CITY BAGELS

The beloved bagel pop-up now has a permanent space in the old Gravity Pub on Glenwood Avenue in East Atlanta Village. New York-style bagels will be made daily along with sandwiches and craft sodas. For more information, visit emeraldcitybagels.com.

GOLDEN

EAGLE AND MUCHACHO

The old train depot along the Atlanta BeltLine at Memorial Drive is getting a new lease on life after H. Harper Station closed down last year. The owner of Ladybird Grove will open a two-in-one spot with Golden Eagle serving as a “workingman’s tavern” while Muchacho will offer breakfast and lunch selections like tacos, grain bowls and poke bowls. Watch the Facebook page at GoldenEagleAtl for opening details.

RADIAL CAFÉ - COLLEGE PARK

If you find yourself south of the city, Candler Park mainstay Radial Cafe has opened its second location at 3725 Main Street in College Park. Owner Frank Bragg has renovated a historic storefront, keeping an original 1917 Coca-Cola mural, with seating for 130 people. For more information, visit radialcafe.com.

A MANO

Located at the corner of Ralph McGill and Glen Iris in the Old Fourth Ward, this new bistro offers a menu of traditional Italian food with a dash of Southern, including fresh pasta, antipasta and proteins. For more information, visit amanobistroatl.com.

AMORINO

The Paris-based gelato chain known for its quirky roseshaped servings, will open its first brick-and-mortar Georgia outpost The Shops Buckhead Atlanta in the fall. Besides the gelato, the menu will also include shakes, pastries, chocolates and sorbets. For more, visit amorino.com/us.

THE CANTEEN

Technology Square in Midtown now has its own “micro-food hall” located in the space once occupied by The Spence on 5th Street. The eclectic eatery from the folks behind West Egg Café and The General Muir includes space for Yalla (Mediterranean fare), Fred’s Meat & Bread (burgers and sandwiches), TGM Bagel (bagels and breakfast sandwiches) and Square bar (smoothies and juice in the morning, beer and cocktails in the evening). Hours at the various stalls vary, so check out the schedule at thecanteenatl.com.

DONETTO

Located in the new Stockyards development on the Westside at 976 Brady Ave., the Tuscan-style restaurant will feature a big selection of pasta dishes. Check out the Facebook page at facebook.com/ DonettoAtlanta for opening information.

BAR MERCADO

The latest concept from Castellucci Hospitality Group (The Iberian Pig and Cooks & Soldiers) is located inside Krog Street Market in Inman Park. The menu includes tapas dishes, meats, cheeses, and “bar bites.” For more, visit barmercadoatl. com.

GOLDA KOMBUCHA

The local tea company founded by Melanie Wade will soon open its first brick-and-mortar shop in West End. The company will move its kombucha brewery and production to the forthcoming Lee + White development with a taproom opening to the public for tours and tastings soon after. For more information, visit goldakombucha.com.

MARY HOOPA’S HOUSE OF FRIED CHICKEN & OYSTERS

The menu is in the name of this newly opened spot in East Lake’s Hosea + 2nd development at 2371 Hosea L. Williams Drive. Visit facebook.com/ MaryHoopasAtl for more information.

SALATA

Billed as “the next generation salad bar,” Salta is located at 265 19th St. in Atlantic Station. Vegetables and fruits are chopped daily, while the dressings, soups and sauces are house-made and gluten-free. For more information, visit salata.com.

UPBEET

Located in the Ironworks development at 1071 Howell Mill Road on the Westside, the menu features “West Coastinspired health food” including salads, grain bowls and protein plates with vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free folks in mind. Visit upbeet.com for details.

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owners are ready to sell with their newly-constructed home near completion. Priced well below appraisal and with over 6,500 square feet of family living space, this home is one of the best values in Buckhead. Located in the Morris Brandon Elementary district. Don’t miss this opportunity and make an appointment today!

Everybody Eats: Karen Beavor

By Megan Volpert

Welcome to the interview series where I discuss food with citizens of Atlanta who are prominent for non-food-related reasons. Let’s get to know our most high-profile residents a little more personally, shall we? For this installment, I spoke to Karen Beavor, President and CEO of the Georgia Center for Non-profits.

How do you like your eggs cooked?

► I seriously hate eggs. My fear is that I will be incapacitated and unable to speak and someone will be feeding me eggs. I have instructed my children to make this known should I ever have that unfortunate eventuality.

What are your two favorite things to put in mac and cheese, other than the mac and the cheese?

► Uhhh… more cheese? If this is not a choice then lobster or hot sauce or fresh herbs.

What are some of your favorite spots for brunch?

► Local 3 East Pearl Dim Sum Wahoo Grill in Decatur Goldberg’s

When you were studying at Agnes Scott College, what was the best place to walk to for a meal?

► It used to be called Trackside Bar in the space that is now Kimball House. They had a lot of good late night food –melted brie with toast points, which was so avant-garde at that time.

Are you any good at gardening?

► Yes, I have always had a flower garden and have tried vegetables on and off. (Yes, I have grown the $50 tomato) Now, I live Intown and do containers.

Wine and beer, or the hard stuff, or none at all?

► Is it a cocktail? Then I like it! But really, my preference is bourbon.

What is your guilty pleasure snack food?

Favorite food for a tailgate?

► Snack food: I love any dip and anything that dips into the dip.

Tailgate: hot dogs.

What are your feelings about red velvet cake?

► I feel that it isn’t all that velvety –which is good because who wants velvet in your mouth?

Is there any food so disgusting to you that you just won’t eat it?

► Eggs of course. Anything with visible fat on it. Am I the only one who thinks pork belly is gross?

Who does most of the cooking in your house? Who cooked while you were growing up?

► I do the cooking. My mom cooked most of the time but my dad is very gifted at smoking meats. My entire family are incredible cooks – they perfect things like pickles, jellies, biscuits and yeast rolls, smoked salmon. We always had gatherings at my grandparents houses and they were amazing cooks. My mother won 4H prizes for what are now termed “angel biscuits” in our house and my dad was and is a hunter so we grew up eating venison, wild turkey, Alaskan salmon, etc. It’s just a Southern thing that you would naturally have a freezer full of that type of food.

GCN has a tradition of asking new staffers about their favorite foods during their first staff meeting. What is the most memorable or unusual or per-fect answer you ever got to that question?

► Oh, that is a hard one! First – we ask (our staff, but also sometimes full groups we are facilitating) because food is a connector. You will always find someone that you have a commonality with and it is a great way to kick off getting to know someone. The perfect answer – only a few times has someone answered XYZ item and then proceeded to describe it in detail with passion. Whether pizza or peach pie – that is a perfect answer because they are letting you in – and that’s what the question is all about, which is connecting.

GCN is an umbrella for very many service groups. In what ways are you helping to change the ways Atlanta experiences food?

► One of the most fun things about working at GCN is learning about and help-ing to scale the myriad of organizations serving Atlanta (and GA). We see them at their very beginnings, as they grow and as they are working through chal-lenges or leveraging good ideas or investments. We have, for example, watched the Giving Kitchen go from a ancient idea to a highly successful organization doing incredible things for this community. Georgia Organics is another exam-ple of a group that has become a movement along with the whole urban farm-ing scene pioneered by groups like Truly Living Well. It is incredibly important that, as Atlanta grows, all its citizens have access to healthy, fresh food – there are many nonprofits such as these, that are leading the way and we are proud to work with them.

In 2018, you’ll celebrate 20 years at the helm of GCN. What do you want to eat and drink during those festivities?

► It hardly seems like twenty years, until I look in the mirror. I don’t know what I’ll be eating and drinking but I’d want it to be alongside the company of the wonderful staff and board at GCN. They make everything we do shine and I adore them.

761 Miami Circle, Atlanta Ga.

Add any KitchenAid built in refrigerator to your package and take home a mixer today!*

*Program dates: July 1, 2017 - December 31, 2017

QUICK BITES

◄ The third annual Atlanta Summer Wine Fest will be held on Saturday, Aug. 12, from noon to 4 p.m. at City Winery in the Old Fourth Ward. There will be over 50 wines as well as a selection of beer to choose from. Live music and a DJ will be on site, and food will be available for purchase. For tickets ($50 in advance, $6 at the door) and more information, visit atlantawinefestivals.com.

► The 14th annual Atlanta German Bierfest will offer a day of authentic German beers, music and food on Saturday, Aug. 26, from 2 to 7 p.m. in Woodruff Park in Downtown. General admission tickets are $35 in advance and $40 day of show. For tickets, visit germanbierfest.com.

◄ Venkman’s in the Old Fourth Ward will host Swine, Wine and Sunshine on Sunday, Aug. 27, from 4 to 8 p.m. and feature a whole hog roast, libations, live music from Lilac Wine and more. Tickets are $30. For more information, visit venkmans.com.

► The City of Decatur and Global Growers present Decatur’s Dinner Party on the grounds of the historic Decatur Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 9. For information and tickets, visit globalgrowers.org/decaturs-dinner-party.

◄ Tickets are on sale now for the 11th annual Kirkwood Wine Stroll on Friday, Sept. 22, from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance, or $50 day of the event. For details and tickets visit kirkwoodwinestroll.com.

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Buckhead

Backs Peter Aman for Atlanta Mayor

Aman Endorsed by Councilwomen

Yolanda

Adrean and Clair Muller

“With nearly $14 billion in transportation and water infrastructure on the line, we need a mayor with the background and the backbone to manage Atlanta’s finances and its future in a transparent manner. Peter is the candidate I trust –and who Atlanta can trust – to champion our city and its residents.”

COUNCILWOMAN YOLANDA ADREAN, FINANCE EXPERT

“Peter is the one candidate who understands the need for a regional approach to solving our traffic challenges through transit and expanded transportation options.”

CLAIR MULLER, FORMER CITY

COUNCILWOMAN, TRANSPORTATION EXPERT

Phase 2 of restaurant-driven Hosea + 2nd announced

The team behind the new Hosea + 2nd development in East Lake have released plans for Phase II of the development.

Mike Nelson and Clay Harper, owners of Fellini’s Pizza and La Fonda Latina, and their development partners, Jay Martin and Nathan Bolster of ReDevStudio, released plans to begin permitting construction on the northeast corner of the growing intersection of Hosea L. Williams Drive and 2nd Avenue.

The group plans to develop a two-story, 7,800-square-foot building that will connect the public space to the mixed-use complex’s restaurant and office spaces using an open corridor through the center of the building. With space for two new restaurants/cafés and six creative office lofts, the project will complete the third corner of the developing intersection.

Leasing is open now and ReDevStudio expects to break ground on the project in the fall. There are no plans at this point to open a location of either Fellini’s or La Fonda, according to the developers.

“We’ve been ecstatic with the reception that the first phase has received, with the success of our tenants, and how the neighborhood has supported them. We

can’t wait to bring even more options to Hosea + 2nd with this next phase,” said ReDevStudio partner Bolster. “This is the next step to the end goal of a neighborhood-oriented commercial node.”

The announcement comes on the heels of the opening of Mix’D Up Burgers on the southeast corner of the intersection and several design accolades for the Hosea + 2nd development.

The project was a finalist for the AIA Georgia Honor Award (Adaptive Reuse) and received an Atlanta Urban Design Commission Award of Excellence in May.

“We have taken a lot of care with both projects to create dynamic outdoor spaces with visual connections between the dining guests and the public walk-ways. Natural light is always present throughout,” notes the project’s architect Tim Nichols, Principal of NO Architecture.

Currently operating at the intersection are Greater Good BBQ, Poor Hendrix restaurant, Mix’D Up Burgers, and soon-toopen Mary Hoopa’s.

For more information, visit hosea2nd. com.

Home & Real Estate

Chilling in the Mountains Pre-retirees starting search early for dream mountain homes

By Kathy Dean

Cool weather, beautiful landscapes and a relaxed lifestyle all help to make the mountains a perfect place to settle, and many metro Atlantans plan to retire there. Not everyone waits to claim their little spot of heaven, though. More and more people are making the move to find or build their mountain retreat now and enjoy before and after retirement.

Keith and Robin Sievers label themselves “outdoor people.” They’ve settled into their new home, a two-story mountainside home with main and terrace levels, in Big Canoe, a gated private residential community set in the rolling mountains of Jasper, Ga.

The climate and natural landscapes of north Georgia are perfect, the Sievers said, and so are the amenities they enjoy in Big Canoe, where they’ve found the lifestyle they were looking for. The community boasts a unique Jeep Trail, award-winning 22+ mile trail system for hiking and biking, three outdoor dog parks, three waterfalls,

three lakes and scenic mountain landscapes.

“It’s amazing to live in a beautiful mountain community that’s 30 minutes from the north Atlanta suburbs, and just 30 minutes from the start of the Appalachian Trail,” said Robin. “More importantly, though, are the wonderful people who live here and the many cherished friendships we’ve made.”

They admit that mountain driving was a challenge at first, but added that they quickly adapted. “While some driving is required to get to everything we need, the essentials are close at hand,” said Keith, “and we’ve learned to group our errands into enjoyable ‘urban safaris’.”

Katie Wercholuk, Marketing Director, Big Canoe Company, LLC, reported that she has seen an increase in pre-retirees attracted to the lifestyle and options in Big Canoe. “Many metro Atlanta residents are becoming empty-nesters, but they’re still working while planning for the future before it’s time to retire,” Wercholuk said.

Old Edwards Club, between Highlands and Cashiers, was the spot where Lynda and Bill McNeeley found their mountain home. “We both grew up in the mountains,” Lynda said, “but had always gravitated to the beach. We first went to Highlands in the late 1980s. The cool weather and great mountains, smells and activities drew us in. We bought a small cabin in town and went there about once a month for 12 years.”

The McNeeleys joined Old Edwards Club in 2007 and bought their permanent retirement home in 2009. The house is a 2,500-square-foot cottage with a lovely screened-in porch and mountain view.

“Every morning we wake to the same beautiful view,” Lynda said. “Our friends love to visit and come every year, and our grandchildren love it as much as anyone. Bill’s sister-in-law and some friends from Atlanta bought here after just one visit to Highlands.”

Old Edwards Club offers a relaxed, family environment, and Old Edwards Inn & Spa, located in Highlands, spoils visitors with delicious food and wine, a nationally ranked spa and a world-class golf course designed by Tom Jackson. “We have something for everyone,” said Bill Gilmore, Provisional Broker, Highlands Cove Realty at Old Edwards Inn, and Realtor with PalmerHouse Properties.

Lynda said that she and Bill adore Old Edwards, and everyone they’ve met is friendly. The McNeeleys added that there’s plenty to do, too. They walk to the golf course, pool and the best restaurant in town. There are wonderful pools and fitness, hiking, shopping galore, amazing waterfalls and the nicest merchants you could ever meet, Lynda said.

“Add craft shows and great markets that offer every kind of food you can imagine,” she said. “It’s easy to find what you need to cook gourmet meals at home, so we rarely eat out.”

While Bill is retired, Lynda still works full-time remotely as a Residential Mortgage Loan Officer with Fidelity Bank Mortgage, so many of their Atlanta trips are scheduled to coincide with closings or office activities that she wants to attend. It’s a wonderful setting for working and taking good care of her clients, she said.

According to Gilmore, the area’s internet and cell phone service is first rate, making it a place where executives can take care of business when they need to, and then unplug and relax.

Lynda has had no issues with mountain life. “It’s a quick two-and-a-half-hour drive to the city if I have a business commitment. And our community has a house watch during the off season, so we never have to worry about anything,” she said. “Just one phone call and they’ll check on anything for you. And they’ll even dig you out of the snow if you come during the off season—I love that!”

Duane and Kim Champlin are currently overseeing the construction of their Old Toccoa Farm mountain retreat. “We had a weekend cabin near Blue Ridge before we retired, and we fell in love with the area,” Kim said.

Old Toccoa Farm, just 85 miles north of Atlanta, is near historic Blue Ridge, Ga., and about 15 miles from the Aska Adventure Area, which features camping, hiking and water

Continued on Page 48

Big Canoe Company, LLC

Robin and Keith Sievers

Rush Photography

The McNeelys at their mountain home.

Blue Ridge, GA 4BR/3BA $489,000

Do you want Toccoa Riverfront? Custom, open plan home on banks of upper Toccoa River - master on main, upgraded kitchen, 3 living spaces, deck at water, 2 levels of 12x48 porch, outdoor living rooms. Sit on the deck and enjoy the sounds of the river.

Cherry Log, GA 2BR/2.5BA $449,000

Total Privacy and a Dream Home! 2884 SF on 3+ AC! Gated entrance, common areas, river access, paved roads. An entertainer’s dream. All the upgrades! Huge rocking chair front porch and enormous screened back porch. Spacious, gracious living. Wow!

Ellijay, GA 4BR/3BA $424,900

Come to Double Knob for unparalleled views. Oversized mountain top cabin - 3000+ SF on 1.6 Acres – Enormous living/dining/kitchen area. Walls of glass for jawdropping views, 2500 SF of decks, finished basement, outdoor fireplace. A very special place!

Blue Ridge, GA 3BR/2BA $397,500

Top of the Mountain – End of the Road – 21+ Acres – Cohutta Views. Special cottage home –one level living with oversized finished basement. Updated appliances, covered and uncovered decks, outbuildings, hiking trails, privacy, AND a TREEHOUSE!

Morganton, GA 5BR/3BA $325,000

Rare Find – 3962 SF Home on 4 AC of totally usable land. Open spaces, fenced area, creek. Over 1000 SF of decks – and a basketball court! Super sized kitchen, expansive living room, huge loft, fitness room. Upgrades! Inside practically brand new.

Ellijay, GA 4BR/3BA $299,000

Want resort amenities? 2564 SF home in Coosawattee River Resort – massive, open concept main room – loads of glass for year round mountain and river views. Terrace level custom in-law suite with full kitchen. Easy walk to fitness center and indoor pool.

Ellijay, GA 2BR/2.5BA $299,000

Dramatic modern Mountain home on 2 AC. 1552 SF open concept plan, wall of windows - year round Mountain and river views. Energy efficient Green home in “Common Pond” community. Green spaces, common areas, outdoor adventure at your doorstep

Ellijay, GA 3BR/3BA $239,000

Looking for year round mountain and lake views at a great price? 1820 SF cedar sided lake front home on .7 acres. Open plan – upgraded kitchen – 2 car garage with finished guest suite above. Blackberry Mtn S/D, gated, paved roads, river access.

Cherry Log, GA 3BR/3BA $219,000

If you want creek front, paved access, all the upgrades and space for guests, this is IT. 1516 SF on 1+ AC. Large loft, vaulted ceilings, wood interior, fireplace, covered, open, and screen porches, finished guest retreat on terrace level. Offers good rental potential.

Ellijay, GA 3BR/3BA $217,500

Looking for Rental Potential? Popular rental with loft, huge game room, hot tub, fire pit, covered decks. Seasonal mountain views. Coosawattee River Resort amenities - river access, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, fitness center. This one has what you want.

Ellijay, GA 3BR/2BA $199,000

SMALL price for a BIG cabin. 2488 SF cabin on .79 AC. Huge open living/dining/kitchen is perfect for entertaining – master on main, large loft, vaulted ceilings, hardwoods, oversized garage, rocking chair porch, fenced area for dogs or the kids & a fire pit for you.

Cherry Log, GA 2BR/2BA $149,900

Do you want a Fixer Upper with great potential? AND acreage? AND a mountain view? 2016 SF cabin on 4.97 Acres – full, unfinished basement. Creek frontage and small pond. Open pasture –paved access – A lot for the price – This will go fast!!

In the Heart of Downtown Blue Ridge

Retiring to the Mountains

Realtors see influx of buyers heading for the hills

By Kathy Dean

When the time comes to step away from successful careers, many active retirees are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the pastimes that they couldn’t fit in their schedules when they were working. The north Georgia and Blue Ridge mountains offer just that, with cool temperatures, breathtaking natural landscapes and plenty of opportunities for activities like golf, fishing, boating and hiking, to name just a few.

Mark Reeves is an Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker High Country Realty Blue Ridge and half of “The Mountain Duo.” Reeves said, “My teammate is seeing a huge influx of buyers who have retired or plan on retiring soon. I’m the listing agent for the team and he specifically works with buyers.”

The duo’s other half, Scott Nichols, also an Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker High Country Realty Blue Ridge, got more specific. “Over the last three to four years, at least 50 percent of my business has been coming from buyers moving here to retire.

www.BlueRidgeInnBandB.com info@blueridgeinnbandb.com

Continued on Page 44

THE TOP 3 reasons to visit the WNC mountains:

1. Outdoor activities for the whole family

2. See nature’s majesty

3. Reconnect with loved ones

Retiring to the Mountains

Continued from page 42

It was probably less than five percent when I started in real estate here 14 years ago.”

He added that his clients are typically active retirees who want to take advantage of the hiking, mountain biking and kayaking, and plan to stay physically active well into their retirement years.

Nichols’ primary areas of focus are Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville and the smaller surrounding towns, and he said that many retirees are initially attracted to the Blue Ridge region simply because of its beauty, the amount of protected land, Lake Blue Ridge and the array of shops, restaurants, breweries and festivals that Blue Ridge offers.

“During the home hunting process, a great number of buyers decide to buy in Gilmer County – Ellijay, East Ellijay and Cherry Log – due to the tax breaks offered to 65-plus retirees,” he explained. “Gilmer County eliminates the school portion of the property tax bill for retirees, and that accounts for roughly 75 percent of the total property tax. This is a huge incentive for my buyers.”

Many of the retirees who are looking for a mountain home tell Nichols the same story. “They start their search online and visit some of the locations to do their own research in person. Blue Ridge, in particular, has been featured in a number of articles focused on best small town places to retire or best mountain towns to live in,” he said. Even though most prefer the rustic mountain home style, Nichols said that they’re thinking ahead, and they want a master on the main, laundry on the main and attached garages. “One level living is highly desired, even though the terrain here often requires multi-level homes,” he added. “Proximity to town, doctors, grocery stores and a hospital are also typically on their list of requirements.”

And one more thing: although the area offers the small town living and more relaxed lifestyle they want, Atlanta is just 90 minutes away. Nichols said that the thought of being so close to a direct flight to almost anywhere in the world adds a lot of appeal.

The next step for many buyers is to visit the area and rent a mountain home for a week to see what it would be like to live there. “Fortunately, we make the top of the list for many of them,” Nichols said. “Overall, the common theme is that they’re looking for a place that’s less crowded, less expensive to live, has low traffic and low crime as well as that small town feel that many parts of the country are losing due to growth.”

Historically, the vast majority of mountain home buyers were coming from the metro Atlanta area or Florida, according to Nichols. Over the last few years, however, he has seen a huge increase in the number of buyers moving to the north Georgia mountains and Blue Ridge area from other states.

“I’ve had buyers who’ve retired here from New Mexico, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New York and Nevada,” he said. “And most recently, two couples from the San Francisco Bay Area will be closing on their mountain homes this coming September.”

There are HUNDREDS of ways to enjoy the mountains of Western North Carolina; we just can’t fit them all into one ad! Come to the mountains and discover your own reason to keep coming back. There’s space for the whole family or for just the two of you. Contact Landmark Vacation Rentals today to explore vacation and seasonal rentals in Cashiers, Highlands, Lake Glenville, Lake Toxaway, Sapphire Valley, and Burlingame!

LUXURY HOMES | CABINS | COTTAGES | CONDOS www.LandmarkVacations.com

Scott Nichols and his partner Mark Reeves, known as the North Georgia Mountain Duo, are licensed Brokers who have sold real estate in the area since 2004, successfully closing well over 500 transactions. They’ve achieved the Top Producing Team Award from their Board of Realtors most of the last 10 years. For more info, including reviews and rankings, visit MountainsOfGeorgia.com.

TOLL FREE: 877-747-9234 17 Highway 64, Cashiers, NC 28717

Head for the hills and breathe deeply while you reconnect with nature, with others — and yourself.

A captivating golf and river community, rooted in simplicity, quality, and natural beauty, located a stone’s throw from charming downtown Blue Ridge.

A Golf Experience Like No Other

A very natural, links-look golf course offering manicured zoysia fairways & tees, and undulating bentgrass greens.

9-holes currently open for play

18-holes are scheduled for play in spring 2018

Over 180 members and growing.

OLD TOCCOA FARM REALTY, LLC

Private Residences & Cottages Under

Construction

Canadian Log Home for sale at $649,900 Cottage/lot package from the high $300’s Private Residences from the mid $400’s Cottage & Private Resident lots starting at $65,000

596 Curtis Switch Road, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559 | Real Estate – 706.946-4663 & Golf – 706.946.4653 | www.oldtoccoafarm.com

4,000+ Feet On The Toccoa River

An exceptional trout fishery of native brown & rainbow trout. Fly fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddle and more! Easy-to-walk trails and several fire-pit gathering areas.

Planned amenities: River Pavilion, Event Barn, Pool, Tennis, Fitness and more.

FOLLOW US

IS NOT DIRECTED TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY, OR ON BEHALF OF, OLD TOCCOA FARM, LLC OR ANYONE ACTING WITH OLD TOCCOA FARM, LLC’S KNOWLEDGE. NO OFFERING OR PURCHASE OR SALE OF ANY PROPERTY SHALL TAKE PLACE AS A RESULT OF THIS OFFERING, UNTIL ALL REGISTRATION AND FILING REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE NEW YORK MARTIN ACT AND THE NEW YORK ATTORNEY GENERAL’S REGULATIONS ARE COMPLIED WITH; A WRITTEN EXEMPTION IS OBTAINED PURSUANT TO AN APPLICATION IS GRANTED PURSUANT TO AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH COOPERATIVE POLICY STATEMENTS #1 OR #7; OR A “NO-ACTION” REQUEST IS GRANTED.

and in the Mountains

Chasing Waterfalls

Georgia State Parks offer recreation, beautiful sights

While exploring for that new home in the North Georgia mountains, be sure to drop by one of Georgia’s State Parks to check out some impressive waterfalls. Not only are they beautiful, but the parks also offer amazing recreational amenities, too.

Amicalola Falls State Park

The tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, Amicalola Falls towers above the surrounding greenery at 729 feet high. The falls supply various vantage points for visitors to view the scenery, including a hard-surfaced trail perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. Climb the more challenging staircase to the top for unprecedented views of the falls. GaStateParks.org/AmicalolaFalls

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Cloudland Canyon is one of the largest and most scenic state parks in Georgia’s repertoire. Within the park one can find canyons, sandstone cliffs, caves, waterfalls, creeks, dense woodland and abundant wildlife. One of the most popular hiking trails includes the twomile Waterfall Trail leading to two scenic falls that cascade over sandstone and pour into beautiful pools at the bottom. GaStateParks.org/CloudlandCanyon

Tallulah Gorge State Park

One of the most impressive canyons in the southeast, Tallulah Gorge is 1,000 feet deep and roughly two miles long. The gorge contains numerous paths and overlooks for visitors to view the six waterfalls cascading through the bottom of the gorge. To gain access to the floor of the gorge and “Sliding Rock” (Bridal Veil Falls), visitors must acquire a permit available at the visitor’s center. Passes run out quickly, so it’s important to get an early start on the day for the full experience. GaStateParks.org/TallulahGorge

Black Rock Mountain State Park

Located within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Rock Mountain State Park is located at the highest elevation of any Georgia State Park. The rugged terrain and fresh mountain air are home to Ada-Hi Falls. A short but steep trail and staircase lead to this small, secluded waterfall. GaStateParks.org/BlackRockMountain

Vogel State Park

Vogel State Park is one of the nation’s oldest state parks, and rests at the base of the beautiful Blood Mountain. Located directly below Lake Trahlyta, this stepping stone waterfall cascades 40 feet. GaStateParks.org/Vogel

Moccasin Creek State Park

Moccasin Creek State Park sits on the shores of Lake Burton and is a central location for visiting multiple falls in the area. The park’s two-mile trail Hemlock Falls Trail leads to the beautiful Hemlock Falls of Rabun County. The trail is kid-friendly, offers glimpses of the waterfall along the way and supplies a beautiful pool of water at the base of the falls. GaStateParks.org/MoccasinCreek

Chilling in the Mountains

Continued from page 40

activities like tubing, canoeing and kayaking.

According to Duane, the couple wanted long-range mountain views. “We got that, plus we’re living on a golf course in a gated community,” he said.

Harry Norman REALTORS® Blue Ridge Office, reported that there has been an influx of buyers in the new development.

“Old Toccoa Farm is the only fly fishing and golf community in our area,” she said. Sapphire, N.C. turned out to be right setting for Willie and Sheryl McCutchen’s mountain getaway. The couple still resides full-time in the rural town of Kingstree, on the eastern side of South Carolina.

with melanoma in 1993, so “beach life wasn’t exactly on the top of my list,” he said.

said. “But bears generally aren’t a problem if you don’t leave out things to attract them, like garbage or bird seed.”

Purchasing a mountain home before retirement is a good strategy, especially since the north Georgia mountains are starting to attract buyers from across the country. When Gary and Christy Ray decided to move from a mountain/lake area in northwest Nevada to be closer to family, they wanted to locate in a similar environment in Georgia. They found their mountain cabin in Love Mountain, an upscale rustic neighborhood that features wooded settings and mountain views, in Morganton, Ga.

The Champlins moved to the north Georgia mountains from Gwinnett County. What they’ve found in Old Toccoa Farm is peace and quiet, golf courses, the Toccoa River, wooded trails and “the friendliness of everyone we come across,” said Kim. They noted that they have lost a few conveniences, but said they’ve gained much more. “We have a relaxed and friendly environment,” said Duane, “and a whole lot less congestion!”

Kim L. Knutzen, Managing Broker,

Willie retired from the telecommunications business in 2005 at the early age of 56. “Sheryl and I sometimes talked about getting a second home, but never took it very seriously,” he said. “She’s always loved the beach, and probably would’ve preferred something on the coast initially.” While that would have been convenient, since their Kingstree home is only about an hour’s drive from the beach, Willie didn’t think that it made much sense to have a vacation home so close by. And Willie was diagnosed

Several years ago, the McCutchens became friends with the owner of the High Hampton Inn & Country Club in Cashiers, N.C., Will McKee, as well as his partner in High Hampton Realty, Manuel de Juan.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountain, the historic High Hampton Inn has been a place of Southern hospitality since the nineteenth century. The inn’s 1,400-acre playground offers golf, tennis, hiking, fly fishing and a European spa.

“After several stays at the inn, we fell in love with the area and began to talk seriously about the possibility of acquiring something in the area,” Willie said.

They looked at a number of places in the summer of 2015 until de Juan showed them a log cabin in a Holly Forest community in Sapphire. The Homeowners Association offered an amenities package with access to indoor and outdoor pools, skiing, a fitness facility and private lake/beach.

Willie said that he and Sheryl knew right away that it was the place for them, and they closed on the property in January 2016. “I think what sold us was its quaint interior,” he added. “We’ve enjoyed fixing it up.”

At this point, the cabin is just a vacation home, according to Willie, and he suspects it will never be more than that. Since it’s just five hours away from Kingstree, it’s fairly convenient.

“We love to come periodically, especially with our two grandchildren, ages five and eight,” he added. “We also enjoy letting friends and family use the cabin when we’re not here, but we don’t rent it.”

When asked what he and Sheryl enjoy most about the mountains, Willie mentioned the beauty and solitude and, of course, the cooler temperatures during the summer. He said that even though they have neighbors, they still feel fairly secluded, which is very important to them both.

“One of the things I find appealing about owning a vacation home in the mountains, especially as compared to the beach, is the difference costs associated with insurance and taxes,” Willie said. “I was very surprised at the reasonableness of property taxes and casualty insurance.”

He noted that he and Sheryl haven’t encountered any real challenges to living in the mountains, other than periodic bad weather in winter and the occasional bear on the porch. “I’m not kidding!” Willie

“The north Georgia mountains are a perfect fit for us,” said Gary. “With the beautiful mountains, sunsets, lakes, affordable living, proximity to Atlanta and wonderful southern hospitality, we couldn’t have made a better choice.”

Christy added that everyone in Blue Ridge has welcomed them with open arms. “Within two months, we’ve made a lot of new friends and already feel like a part of the community,” she said.

The area offers a variety of activities, music venues and craft fairs, along with outstanding restaurants. “This is what we love about the community,” Christy said. “We attended a fabulous wine pairing dinner at a local restaurant in Blue Ridge and met some lovely people who we plan to see again.”

The Rays love the peace, slower pace and mild traffic. “There’s no comparison to major cities—great food, Southern hospitality and the natural beauty of the North Georgia mountains,” said Gary. “This has been a great choice for our retirement.”

When asked about the best part of living in north Georgia, Christy answered, “The inner peace that we have when we sit on our balcony and look out at the beautiful north Georgia mountains. You can’t put a price on that.”

She noted that there have been a few small issues, most notably, learning about log cabin ownership and adjusting to a more humid climate than northwest Nevada, where the annual average humidity is 10 percent. “But really, they’re no longer issues after living here for two months,” she said.

Faron W. King, Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, said that while many mountain homes are bought by retirees, that’s not the whole story. “We’re seeing younger buyers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of Atlanta for a weekend getaway, and it turns into a part-time home if their career allows them to telecommute,” said King.

He suggested that people not wait for retirement to begin looking for their dream retirement home. Good advice, it seems, with the current rush to the hills.

Duane and Kim Champlin

Gary and Christy Ray

Willie and Sheryl McCutcheon’s Sapphire NC cabin

Atlanta homebuilder Foyer

Urban is planning a 27-unit townhome development at 626 Parkway Drive in the Old Fourth Ward. Views at O4W will feature modern architecture coupled with private backyards and community spaces. The townhomes will feature open floor plans, flexible space, rooftop decks with views of Midtown and Downtown, nearly floor to ceiling windows and garages. The units will all face inward toward a centralized mew constructed out of environmentally friendly permeable pavers. Just three blocks from Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine, the townhomes will be priced starting in the low $600’s. They will range in size from 1,790 to 1,862 square feet and will have two to three bedrooms (or two bedrooms and flex space), with three-and-one-half baths. A groundbreaking is slated for this month. For more information, visit ViewsAtO4W.com.

Epic Devolopment and Gamble + Gamble will build Stacks on 6th at the corner of Juniper and 6th Street in Midtown. The three modern brownstones will feature three bedrooms, three-anda-half baths and twocar garages. Gourmet kitchens, double balconies and rooftop terraces are also part of the design package.

New details about the transit-oriented mixed-used development at the King Memorial MARTA Station have emerged from developers Place Properties and Russell New Urban. The $64.5-million project will include 385 residential units and retail space. Work could begin by year’s end.

Fulton Supply Lofts, a recently completed loft conversion project in Downtown, has been awarded the 2017 Design Excellence Award from the City of Atlanta Urban Design Commission for its historic authenticity and sustainable design. The property has also been given the first EarthCraft certification by the Southface Energy Institute for energy conservation and sustainability in a multifamily restoration. Located at 342 Nelson Street in Castleberry Hill, the development features 74 traditional one-, two- and three-bedroom rental units.

ABOVE: Georgia DOT work crews removed Georgia Dome signs and installed new signage for MercedesBenz Stadium, including the one above along I-75 south. The stadium will be ready for the Atlanta Falcons’ first exhibition game on Aug. 26, but the retractable roof will remain in the closed position while work crews finish the mechanization of the intricate panels.

TOP RIGHT: Permanent rainbow crosswalks were installed at the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street to honor the neighborhood’s LGBTQ+ legacy. (Photo by Asep Mawardi)

BOTTOM RIGHT: A new mural at Irwin and Hilliard Streets in the Old Fourth Ward honors the neighbor hood and uses a famous line from Civil Rights leader Rev. Williams Holmes Borders, Sr.’s “I Am Somebody” sermon. Resident Cara Turano Snow came up with the idea, while Will Mitchell was the muralist.

BUCKHEAD - Spectacular living top of Sovereign. Three separate private covered balconies, upgraded counters, appliances, flooring, custom lighting, custom closets, front and rear entry, open floorplan, grand entrance. 2Bed/2.5Bath $1,890,000

FMLS: 5756028 Bru Krebs 404.984.0243

GLENWOOD PARK - Extraordinary, spacious townhome in the coveted Glenwood Park. Sunny, open floorplan with hardwoods. Freshly painted, custom blinds, newer appliances. 2 car tandem garage.

3Bed/2.5Bath $475,000

FMLS: 5883311 Michael JW Smith 404.786.2057

DRUID HILLS - Druid Hills Golf Course lot at remarkable price! 2 oversized living/family rms, w/3 walls of light-filled windows w/ kitchen conveniently located in between. Enormous 2 car garage. .5acre lot is lushly landscaped. 5Bed/4.5Bath $849,000 FMLS: 5857571 Sally Westmoreland 404.354.4845

VIRGINIA HIGHLAND - Excellent opportunity! Unique & light-filled. Open floor plan, tons of windows, awesome views, saltwater pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, greenhouse, private gated front courtyard and completely fenced backyard. Owner/Agent 4Bed/2Bath $775,000 FMLS: 5851771 Kay Goldstein 404.784.0937

TWELVE CENTENNIAL - Condo offers floor to ceiling windows, and walk-out balcony with a skyline view of Midtown. Open kitchen, breakfast bar with granite counters, SS appliances, hardwood floors, and more.

2Bed/2Bath $325,000

FMLS: 5879134 Lamar Golar 404.643.1888

EMORY - Private paradise 2 story screened porch, added sunroom, added sitting room off master overlooks private fenced backyard, hardwood floors, full family room w/fp. Beautifully updated baths.

5Bed/3Bath $505,000

FMLS: 5875118 Ann Hudson 404.307.9902

SMITHSONIA - Mid Century Modern. Hardwood floors, upgraded kitchen w/SS appliances & granite counters, sun room, den w/FP, large deck w/built-in seating, full basement w/ perfect teenager suite, gorgeous corner lot w/private garden area. 3Bed/3Bath $315,000

FMLS: 5878800 Ann Hudson 404.307.9902

ELEMENT - Top floor condo offers a separate dining room, high ceilings w/lots of light, granite countertops, breakfast bar, SS Appliances & roommate floorpan for added privacy. Hardwood in main areas, carpet in bedrooms & loft area & tile baths. 2Bed/2Bath $285,900

FMLS: 5853687 Dan Richardson 470.422.0819

BRIAR HILLS - Stylish home in sought after Briar Hills. Renovated thru-out, gorgeous hardwood flrs, recessed lighting, SS appliances, mstr w/walk in closet and pvt bath.

3Bed/2.5Bath $494,900

FMLS: 5882611 Erin Fye 404.771.9822

TWELVE ATLANTIC STATION - Buckhead & Midtown Views. End unit w/ full width balcony, cherry hardwood floors throughout, granite counter tops in kitchen and bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows in both bedrooms and livingroom. 2Bed/2Bath $345,000

FMLS: 5856058 Sean Carter 404.981.0639

MORNINGSIDE/JOHNSON ESTATES - 2 master suites w/one on main, open renovated kit with quartz c-tops, SS appliances and keeping rm. 3 bedrooms up including 2nd master en-suite, sep DR, lrg living rm with office nook w/balcony. 4Bed/4.5Bath $874,900

FMLS: 5854684 Nicole Davis 404.358.6252

PEACHTREE PLACE - Sunny, top floor w/rare storage unit. 10ft. ceilings, 2 covered parking spaces, newer HVAC, hardwood floors, roommate floorpan. Home tucked in back of community. Complex features resort style pool. 2Bed/2Bath $249,000

FMLS: 5857147 Michael JW Smith 404.786.2057

EASTLAND VILLAGE - Gorgeous End Unit T’home, Open Floorplan w/Hrdwd Flrs, 10ft Ceils, Sep DN, Gourmet’s Kit w/SS Appls, Granite, an Island for Prep and B’fst bar! Master suite retreat has HUGE bonus loft. 3Bed/3.5Bath $233,000

FMLS: 5874806 Erin Fye 404.771.9822

BRIARLAKE - Sunny, spacious, gorgeous updated home with flat, playable yard on quiet double cul-de-sac. Spacious kitchen overlooks the large family room with adjacent sunroom; large bedrooms with ample closets; 2 car garage. 4Bed/2.5Bath $459,900

FMLS: 5852070 Matt Schwartz 404.587.6985

OLD FOURTH WARD - Stunning traditional with spacious 4 sided brick, bright open floorpan, sep LR/ DR, 10ft+ ceilings, hardwoods, amazing kitchen w/ marble countertops, huge greatroom w/guest suite on main. Front porch & 2 car garage. 5Bed/4Bath $850,000 FMLS: 5870980 Ed Woods 404.759.9680

THE PEACHTREE RESIDENCES - Immaculate loft style 2 story condo has SS appliances & granite c-tops, beautiful dark hrdwds throughout & overlooks lush courtyard w/quiet view. Designer model in perfect condition. 1Bed/1.5