Atlanta Intown - January 2026

Atlanta Intown

JANUARY 2026 ■ ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

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Ken Covers | Morningside Real Estate Specialist As a 22-year resident of Morningside and a leading expert with a deep focus on this community, I’ve been at the forefront of Morningside’s incredible growth. l

Most homes sold in Morningside over $1M

l

Top REALTOR® in Morningside for 2025 Ken is one of the most knowledgeable and diligent agents out there! On top of that, he is fun to work with! He really knows the Morningside/Virginia Highland markets and he won’t steer you wrong.

We have used him for several transactions and were always extremely pleased. Look no further. You will not be disappointed if you work with Ken!

— Recent Activity — 1304 Lanier Blvd — CLOSED

1821 N. Rock Springs NE — CLOSED

1448 N. Highland Ave NE — CLOSED

879 Wildwood Rd NE — CLOSED

1880 Wellbourne Dr NE — UNDER CONTRACT

747 Cumberland Rd NE — CLOSED

In today’s market, having a well-thought-out strategy for selling your home is more crucial than ever.

These impressive results don’t happen by chance—they are planned and executed with precision.

If you’re considering updates or looking to maximize your home’s sales potential, let’s discuss your options and how we can achieve the best outcome together.

Ken Covers, Real Estate Advisor E NG E L & VÖLKE R S AT L A NTA

1745 Peachtree Street NE | Atlanta | GA 30306 M +1 404.664.8280 O +1 404.845.7724 ken.covers@evatlanta.com | kencovers.evatlanta.com ©2025 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing. Engel & Völkers and its independent license partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act. Source: FMLS 2025

Contents

Our followers saw it first.

JANUARY 2026

Editor’s Note

4

Community

Follow @RoughDraftATL on Instagram.

World Cup Preparation

6

News Briefs

8

Forge Atlanta

8

Legislative Preview

10

Atlantic Station Closures

10

APS Consolidation Plan

14

Affordable Housing Projects

15

Focus On Education 20 Under 20

17-29

Dining Lewis BBQ Opens

30

Restaurant Closures

31

Real Estate 2026 Market Forecast

30

32

32

Atlanta Intown A

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Collin Kelley Executive Editor

Rough Draft Atlanta

sales@RoughDraft.news

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Katie Burkholder, Bob Pepalis, Logan C. Ritchie, Sarra Sedghi, Stephanie Toone Contributors

Each month, 27,000 copies of Atlanta Intown are mailed to homes and distributed to businesses in and around ZIP codes 30306, 30307, 30308, 30309, 30324 and 30329.

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The founders and leaders of Midtown High School’s March for Our Lives chapter – (from left) Mariam Darb, Avery Frank, Julia Barton, Kate Krugman, and Audrey Lyons – are 2026 20 Under 20 honorees.

Meet all the honorees starting on page 17. (Photo by Isadora Pennington) Honored as a newspaper of General Excellence

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JANUARY 2026 |

3

EDITOR'S NOTE

MEDLOCK

The world returns to Atlanta in 2026

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PEGGY HIBBERT 2025 STATS

6 days

102%

$600M

Average Days on Market

Sales-to-List Price Ratio

Lifetime Sales

Throughout my career, my guiding principle has been to build lifelong relationships by serving my clients as I would my own family.

PEGGY HIBBERT No. 1 Agent, Druid Hills + No. 1 Metro Brokerage Your Neighborhood Expert with Global Connections

c. 404.444.0192 o. 404.874.0300 peggy@atlantafinehomes.com ©2025 Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. Source: FMLS. 1/1/21-12/31/21. Druid Hills. All Property Types + Price Points. Intown Ranking: TrendGraphix. Top 5 Firms. 1/1/23-12/31/23. Zip Codes 30306, 30307, 30308, 30309, 30324. All Property Types + Price Points. 2025 Stats from FMLS & Off-Market Sales by Peggy Hibbert.

4 | JANUARY 2026

EDITOR'S NOTE

Welcome to year 32. Atlanta Intown has been continuously publishing since 1994, and I’ve had the pleasure of being at the helm for 24 of those Collin Kelley years.

As 2026 begins, there is much to be excited about, even as global politics and events continue to cause worry and fear.

Frankly, there was little holiday cheer in December: Another senseless campus shooting at Brown University, the antisemitic terror attack in Australia, the murder of beloved actor and director Rob Reiner and his wife.

Millions of people do not feel better off than they were a year ago, and there’s very little evidence that we’re now living in some “golden age” as the economy falters, unemployment rises, and healthcare becomes unaffordable under the current administration.

In Atlanta, there’s going to be two main conversations happening all year long: the midterm elections and the FIFA World Cup. As witnessed not only in Georgia but across the country last fall, Democrats are resurgent as Americans reassess their finances and priorities. And while I’m as sick of politics as everyone else, this year’s midterms are shaping up to be a barnburner of a general election that will be impossible to ignore.

If you aren’t registered to vote, remedy that immediately. Be aware of the races and candidates who will soon be bombarding the airwaves and interwebz with their campaign advertising. If Superman’s old motto of “truth, justice, and the American way” is feeling a little burnished these days, choose your representatives accordingly.

A respite in the political season will come this summer when the eyes of the world are once again trained on Atlanta.

Not since the 1996 Summer Olympics has Atlanta played host to anything as big and global as the FIFA World Cup. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches, and there’s already a frenzied race to polish up the city and finish projects that will give an estimated

300,000 visitors a positive experience.

Atlanta expects a massive economic boost from the World Cup, with estimates ranging from $500 million to $1 billion in total impact. The city is spending $120 million on street repairs, lighting, and Downtown walkability, while hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses are expecting a big economic shot in the arm this June and July.

Atlanta Intown and Rough Draft will be bringing you coverage on both of these fronts throughout the year. Our contributor, Sarra Sedghi, kicks off our World Cup coverage in this issue with a story on page 6 about the final draw and more about the city’s buildup to the tournament.

Along with an assist from media partners like Capitol Beat and Georgia Recorder, we’re also gearing up for the state legislative session set to open on Jan. 12. Be sure to follow us at RoughDraftAtlanta.news and sign up for our daily newsletter to stay abreast of what’s happening under the Gold Dome.

Another one of our long-time media partners, The Atlanta JournalConstitution, is moving away from a daily print edition to an all-digital platform this month. While I completely understand the necessity, it also makes me appreciate that Atlanta Intown remains a print publication after all these years.

I got lucky back in 1986 when the old AJC Sunday Magazine published one of my stories and set me on a career path from which I have never wavered over the last 40 years.

The fact that I’m still employed as a journalist at a print publication all these years later is a privilege and not something I take for granted – ever.

While Intown and Rough Draft are a “digital first” newsroom, there is still value in our monthly print publication, which we hear from loyal readers and advertisers regularly.

When I stop at my regular watering hole, Manuel’s Tavern, I’m still delighted to see a customer flipping through the pages of Atlanta Intown as they wait for their beer or meal.

Whatever brings you to the pages of Atlanta Intown or to Rough Draft’s digital home, welcome aboard. And happy new year!

Celebrating an Extraordinary 2025 H O N O R E D T O G U I D E AT L A N T A F A M I L I E S T H R O U G H T H E I R R E A L E S TA T E J O U R N E YS W I T H E X P E RT I S E , I N T EG R I T Y A N D R E S U LTS

2025 was a year of connections, relationships and results across Atlanta’s neighborhoods.

I’m grateful to each client who entrusted me with one of life’s biggest decisions. Your referrals, loyalty and confidence continue to be the foundation of my business.

Thank you for another incredible year, and here’s to a wonderful 2026!

— Joy Myrick, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S

2025 Home Highlights 258 Pineland Road • Chastain Park

1274 Edmund Park Drive • Morningside

FOR SALE • OFFERED FOR $6,995,000

FOR SALE • OFFERED FOR $1,200,000

What my Clients are Saying “Joy is incredibly well-connected and skilled in negotiation, consistently achieving excellent results for us.”

— Seller, Old Fourth Ward “Her market knowledge and negotiation skills are unmatched.”

— Buyer, Virginia-Highland

1527 Markan Drive* • Morningside

1016 Wildwood Road • Morningside

SOLD FOR $1,100,000

SOLD FOR $4,641,650

“Joy made the entire process seamless from start to finish.”

— Seller, Druid Hills

1201 Beech Valley Road • Morningside

1390 Rock Springs Circle** • Morningside

SOLD FOR $2,625,000

SOLD FOR $$2,000,000

+

820 Powers Lake Drive • Sandy Springs

5575 Lake Island Drive • Sandy Springs

SOLD FOR $1,950,000

SOLD FOR $3,125,000

914 Virginia Avenue • Virginia-Highland

+

1074 Rosewood Drive • Virginia-Highland

SOLD FOR $1,257,500

SOLD FOR $1,135,000

m. 404.408.2331 o. 404.874.0300 joymyrick@atlantafinehomes.com joymyrick.atlantafinehomes.com

© 2025 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission.

Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity. 1555 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 100, Atlanta, Georgia 30309. *Represented buyer. **Off-market sale, represented buyer. +Off-market sale, represented seller.

COMMUNITY

Atlanta prepares for 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer big Miguel Almirón fan from here in Atlanta for Atlanta United, so I think [USAParaguay] is going to be a good matchup,” he said.

Frantzley Raymond, a lifelong Haiti fan, is excited for his team’s placement in Group C. “Today was my day off, so it was a great thing for me to be here and enjoy it,” he said.

While the matches will be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the rest of Atlanta is also gearing up for one of the Atlanta Beltline officials met in December to discuss activities biggest tourism onslaughts since Soccer fans gathered in Buckhead Village in December for and events along the trail to celebrate the World the 1996 Summer Olympics. a World Cup final draw party. (Photo by Sarra Sedghi) Cup. (Photo by Sherri Daye Scott) During a Dec. 11 Atlanta Beltline quarterly meeting, that may take those spots. matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium: five

By Sarra Sedghi officials discussed plans to support small Atlanta will start strong on June 15, group stage games, two knockout stage businesses and local creators, including FIFA has determined the 12 groups that with a match between Spain and Cape games, and a semifinal. Teams in Groups A, participation in FIFA Fan Fest at Pittsburgh will play in the 2026 World Cup, which is Verde. Nearly a week later, Spain will grace C, H, and K were eligible to play in Atlanta Yards, which will serve as a central hub expected to bring hundreds of thousands Mercedes-Benz Stadium once again, facing during the group stage. While the lineup for for World Cup events, celebrations, and of soccer fans to Atlanta this summer for a off against Saudi Arabia.

Groups A and K has not been finalized due opportunities for local businesses. series of matches.

On June 18, South Africa will play to qualifying match schedules, FIFA did Even Decatur is getting in on the World Atlanta will host eight World Cup either Poland, Wales, or Finland, based include possible scenarios for the countries Cup event in a big way. Decatur WatchFest, on the results of the European Qualifier a 34-day series of outdoor screenings in Playoffs in March. and around Decatur Square, will kick off Haiti and Morocco will play in Atlanta festivities on June 11 with a free concert by on June 21. Metro Atlanta’s Haitian Big Boi. population is the second-highest Caribbean “As an Atlantan and huge soccer fan, community in the state, behind Jamaica. performing for Decatur WatchFest ‘26 to On June 27, Uzbekistan will face either kick off our World Cup festivities is a great Congo, Jamaica, or New Caledonia based honor,” Big Boi said in a statement. “I’ve on the results of the Concacaf Qualifier seen the energy the World Cup creates and Playoffs in March.

I’m excited to get the party started for music Atlanta will also host two knockout and soccer fans in my backyard!” matches after that stage begins on June 28: a Big Boi’s concert is one of a number of round of 32 match on July 1 and a round of performances taking place during Decatur 16 match on July 7. The city’s participation WatchFest that will feature local and in World Cup gameplay culminates in a international artists, including the Indigo semifinal match on July 15.

Girls. The Decatur-based duo will close Communities across metro Atlanta are WatchFest with a free concert on July 19. drumming up excitement in advance of the “Playing in Decatur during the World tournament, including a special final draw Cup is one way of saying ‘thank you’ to the watch party hosted by FIFA and Atlanta city that’s been a home to us for so many United in Buckhead Village on Dec. 5. years,” Emily Saliers and Amy Ray said.

Fabiola Flores, a Mexico fan, said she’s “Over the decades, we’ve seen Decatur very excited to watch her team play next grow, and we are so excited to be asked year. to be a part of the Decatur WatchFest “I have been watching the World Cup celebration.” since I was little,” she said. “I’m super excited to see all the diversity flying in from all sorts of different countries.”

Jason Wells, a longtime U.S. Men’s National Team fan, enjoyed watching the draw with other local INSTALLATION soccer fans.

“The event was good. It was fun.

The actual draw itself was really favorable for the U.S. as far as our opponents,” he said. “I think for the games, for the four groups that are going to be playing in Atlanta, there’s Schedule Your Complimentary some very interesting matchups that could potentially be here.”

Design Consultation Today!

Wells is also looking forward to (404) 678-0237 | ArtofDrawers.com the France-Senegal, Croatia-England, Courtesy FIFA and USA-Paraguay matches. “I’m a

6 | JANUARY 2026

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

C E L E B R AT I N G

$175M+

VOLUME SOLD, 2025

$100M+ in Sales SIX CONSECUTIVE YEARS

No. 1 Agent in Atlanta ATLANTA REALTORS® ASSOCIATION 2020, 2021 + 2023

Top 100 Agent SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY® WORLDWIDE, 2022-2025

CHASE MIZELL c. 770.289.2780 o. 404.874.0300 chasemizell@atlantafinehomes.com C H A S E M I Z E L L .C O M ©2025 Sotheby’s International Realty® used with permission. Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. #1 Agent Volume, 2020, 2021 + 2023, Atlanta REALTORS® Association.

News RoundUp The nearly centuryold Druid Hills High School will undergo an $185 million revamp, including the addition of a four-story classroom building and a two-story parking deck.

Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. Text DRAFT to 66866.

As part of a blind plea, Antonio Brown, 26, has agreed to plead guilty to the murder of 77-yearold Eleanor Bowles, whom he stabbed to death during a robbery at her Buckhead townhome in 2022.

Farm Burger closed at the end of December after five years in Virginia-Highland.

The former gas station at Virginia and North Highland avenues will become a new concept from the owners of neighboring Kinship Butcher & Sundry.

Mayor Andre Dickens has appointed Marquetta J. Bryan (pictured) as Atlanta’s new city attorney and Vanessa Manley to serve as executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services.

Forge Atlanta moves forward as Webstar closes on 10-acre site

By Collin Kelley Webstar Technology Group, Inc. and its development subsidiary, Forge Atlanta Asset Management, have closed on a 10‑acre parcel at Ted Turner Drive SW and Whitehall Street SW in Downtown, marking the official launch of Forge Atlanta.

The multi‑phase, mixed‑use district is set to transform an under‑utilized industrial block adjacent to the Garnett MARTA station and Interstates 20/75/85. According to a statement from Webstar, the property will be transformed into a “high‑density district

for Downtown Atlanta, combining hospitality, residential ownership, retail, entertainment, and public spaces.”

Phase I calls for a 300‑room hotel with meeting and event space, approximately 600 luxury condominiums, and about 60,500 sq ft of retail and entertainment space. The condominium portion, valued at roughly $532 million, will be subject to standard tax assessments, according to the release.

Webstar said it plans to launch the construction phase in 2026 and begin pre-sales on the condos.

Future phases may add additional residential towers, offices, public plazas,

Wishing You a Bright and Beautiful New Year C E L E B R AT I N G 2 8 Y E A R S O F E X C E L L E N C E As we step into a new year, I want to share my heartfelt gratitude for the trust, support and meaningful relationships that made this past year so special. It is a privilege to guide you, and I’m honored to be part of your journey.

With more than two decades in Atlanta real estate, I remain inspired by the families, stories and communities that make this city truly one of a kind. May the year ahead bring you joy, clarity and new possibilities.

Cheers to a bright 2026 filled with hope, connection and moments that feel like “home.”

Featured Listing UNDER CONTRACT | CHASTAIN PARK

4745 E. Conway Drive NW Offered for $2,000,000

Carmen Pope FOUNDING PARTNER m. 404.625.4134 o. 404.874.0300 carmenpope@atlantafinehomes.com carmenpope.atlantafinehomes.com © 2025 Sotheby's International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby's International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby's International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby's International Realty, Inc. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity. 1555 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 100, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

8 | JANUARY 2026

A rendering of Forge Atlanta. (Courtesy Webstar)

cultural venues, and more entertainment options.

Independent analyses commissioned by the Development Authority of Fulton County project Phase I will support an estimated 2,100 construction jobs and 900 permanent jobs.

For the project as a whole, Ernst & Young modeling cites that the multi‑phase development is expected to create 3,000 jobs and generate an economic impact of approximately $7.37 billion, with annual tax revenue increasing from roughly $14,585 to $1.8 million and $25 million in total tax revenue during the initial abatement period.

Webstar said Phase I will be financed through conventional means: a proposed $223.7 million inducement approved by the Development Authority of Fulton County, institutional loans and equity, and bond issuance.

The development team plans to introduce an optional digital-asset component that allows more people to participate in the project’s future income through a regulated token program on the independent Torch RWA platform.

When token sales occur, a portion of

the proceeds is expected to support a managed investment fund that helps keep HOA fees lower for future condo owners.

The project is led by Webstar Technology Group and its subsidiary Forge Atlanta Asset Management, which together own 90 percent of the development entity. Turner & Townsend will provide development management; Skanska has participated in preliminary discussions and pre-construction planning as a potential general contractor, subject to the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements; Skyline Engineering will provide in‑house oversight and quality control, with Kimley-Horn serving as the project’s lead engineering firm; and Nelson Worldwide — the architect behind The Battery Atlanta and Buckhead’s St. Regis Hotel — will lead design.

Once destined to become the Artisan Yards mixed-use development, the property was acquired by Urbantec Development Partners in 2022 for a mixed-use development with a focus on life science-related businesses.

For more than two years, the property sat empty until Webstar announced its plan to acquire the property last spring.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

CELEBRATING

$50M Sold in 2025 A new year brings new possibilities, including the opportunity to make a move that fits your next chapter. Let’s talk now about how to get your home ready for spring market.

JASON COOK

c. 404.431.1384 | o. 404.480.HOME | JASON@ANSLEYRE.COM 952 PEACHTREE STREET, SUITE 100, ATLANTA, GA 30309 | 404.480.HOME | ANSLEYRE.COM All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation.

State income tax, education on agenda for legislative session

By Collin Kelley

During these uncertain HammerSmith is heretimes, for HammerSmith is here for you you and your family. and family.

We provide We your provide exceptional safe, essential services, architectural designs and home renovations. architectural designsStart and planning today forStart how home renovations. to livetoday better an to planning forinhow world. liveever-changing better in a changed world.

33 8

As the Georgia General Assembly prepares to convene on Jan. 12, lawmakers, advocates, and business groups are lining up priorities that promise to shape policy across education, taxes, public safety, and more when legislators return to the Gold Dome.

Among the top anticipated topics is tax reform, including proposals to further reduce Georgia’s income tax and advance property tax cuts championed by House Speaker Jon Burns. Burns and other Republican leaders have signaled a push to ease the tax burden on homeowners while maintaining fiscal discipline.

The Georgia Department of Education has already outlined 2026 legislative priorities tied to its Student Bill of Rights, including support for students in poverty and teacher pay increases. Lawmakers will also revisit unfinished education matters from 2025 that did not advance, such as school safety measures and other K-12 funding formula adjustments.

A bipartisan group of state senators

said they will recommend extending Georgia’s cellphone ban to high school students, limiting the use of AI in schools to administrative tasks only, and strengthening recess and learning through play recommendations.

A high-profile area of debate is gambling legalization, with industry supporters optimistic that the legislature may finally approve expanded gaming or sports betting to generate new revenue.

Election reform and technology changes will also press lawmakers to consider updates to voting systems ahead of the crucial 2026 midterms. Republican lawmakers are leading a push to replace computer ballot-marking devices with hand-marked paper ballots.

LGBTQ+ advocates are bracing for renewed debate over legislation affecting transgender people. Lawmakers may revisit proposals restricting gender-affirming medical care, regulating transgender students’ participation in school athletics, and expanding religious exemption protections.

Publix, other retailers leave Atlantic Station

Via Google Maps

By Collin Kelley The Publix supermarket at Atlantic Station closed Dec. 27 after 20 years in business at the mixed-use development.

According to Tomorrow’s News Today, the 30,312 square foot store is one of the smaller locations in the supermarket’s chain.

Rough Draft reached out to Atlantic Station for a statement on the closure and received this confirmation from the development’s management team: “The retail industry is cyclical, and Atlantic Station continues to adapt in ways that strengthen our position as a leading mixed-use destination. With the planned closure of Publix on Dec. 27, 2025, we have an opportunity to reimagine the space and consider concepts that will add

10 | JANUARY 2026

new options and value to the surrounding community.”

The statement continued, “Plans for the space will be shared as details are finalized. Atlantic Station continues to welcome a healthy mix of local and national brands joining the district, including the 2025 openings of the expanded Atlanta Falcons & Atlanta United Team Store, Art Station ATL and MINISO. Busy Bee Café is slated to open in 2026, and additional announcements are expected in the first quarter of the new year.”

Shortly after Publix made its announcement, DSW shoe store and Banana Republic also announced their exits from Atlantic Station when their leases expire at the end of January.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

CELEBRATING

Over 40 CLIENTS HELPED IN 2025

No. 1 Individual Agent IN DRUID HILLS, MORNINGSIDE & VIRGINIA HIGHLAND

THANK YOU for your support and trust in 2025. You are the heart and soul of my business, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish in 2026!

Molly Carter

GAINES

c. 404.542.3120 | o. 404.480.HOME Molly@AnsleyRE.com | MollyCarterGaines.com

ANSLEYRE.COM | 952 PEACHTREE ST. SUITE 100, ATLANTA, GA 30309 | 404.480.HOME ALPHARETTA | ATHENS | BLUE RIDGE | BUCKHEAD | INTOWN | MARIETTA | PEACHTREE CITY All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation. *Source: Brokermetrics, YTD Sales volume for single-family homes in Fernbank & Sprindgale Park ES district, 30306, 30307 & 30324

Setting the Standard for Intown Atlanta, Celebrating the Highest Recorded Sale in Intown History Jim Getzinger 404.307.4020 | 404.668.6621 jim.getzinger@compass.com

Highest Recorded Sale in Intown Atlanta

SOLD

282 The Prado NE Off-Market for $7,200,000

96 The Prado NE Offered for $4,995,000

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

1 Barksdale DR SOLD | Offered for $4,295,000

330 Robin Hood SOLD | Offered for $3,995,000

90 Polo Drive NE SOLD | Offered for $3,395,000

51 Inman Circle NE SOLD | Offered for $2,695,000

85 Beverly Rd NE SOLD | Offered for $2,195,000

43 Avery Dr SOLD | Offered for $1,599,000

Nearly 3 Decades OF EXPERIENCE

$1 Billion + IN CAREER SALES

1835 Rock Springs LN SOLD | Offered for $1,595,000

80 26th Street NW SOLD | Offered for $1,369,000

NEW YEAR

Atlanta Board of Education approves consolidation plan

NEW KEYS! E TIV AC

E TIV AC

BUFORD 2843 N. BOGAN ROAD CO-AGENT MICHELE COLLINS OFFERED FOR $2.199 MILLION

THE GRAYDON 2520 PEACHTREE ROAD #602 OFFERED FOR $1.990 MILLION

E TIV AC

LD

SO

PARK PLACE ON PEACHTREE 2660 PEACHTREE ROAD #39G OFFERED FOR $1.495 MILLION

LD

BUCKHEAD 2953 HARDMAN COURT OFFERED FOR $949,000

LD

SO

SO

GARDEN HILLS 525 BRENTWOOD DRIVE OFFERED FOR $1.3 MILLION

MORNINGSIDE 1400 MONROE DRIVE OFFERED FOR $539,900

VISIT MY SITE

Carolyn Call llo oway, REALTOR®

C: 404.312.6700 | O: 404.233.4142 Carolyn.Calloway@HarryNorman.com

By Collin Kelley The Atlanta Board of Education voted unanimously on Dec. 3 to accept a plan that would repurpose 16 schools, including closing more than a dozen buildings.

The school district said since enrollment is down across the system, the Atlanta Public Schools Forward 2040 plan would save the district $25 million a year, according to a report from WSB-TV. There was a standing-room-only crowd at the December meeting, with many parents speaking against the plan.

“It’s only going to make enrollment worse,” parent Addison Clapp said. “It’s only going to make education worse for our future communities.”

“You’re going to drive them into the charter schools, and you’re going to drive them to private schools. You’re going to drive them to homeschooling. Now, you’ve further divided a community.

Now, you’ve closed a school. Property values have dropped. Because property values have dropped, gentrifiers will come in at an accelerated rate and purchase these homes,” parent Sherry Wilson predicted.

Critics said they’ll keep organizing to keep schools open despite the decision.

The schools closing include: ■ Cleveland Elementary School ■ Continental Colony Elementary School ■ Dunbar Elementary School ■ Finch Elementary School

The Buckhead Office | 2827 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404-233-4142 The above information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. If your home is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation.

Harry Norman, REALTORS® is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties in Georgia.

Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

14 | JANUARY 2026

■ Frank L. Stanton Elementary School ■ Jackson Primary Elementary School ■ Perkerson Elementary School

■ Peyton Forest Elementary School ■ Scott Elementary School ■ Smith Intermediate Elementary School ■ Toomer Elementary School Annex ■ Usher Collier Elementary School ■ Douglas High School 9th Grade Building Students at those schools will move to other nearby schools. Maynard Jackson High School, Midtown High School and King Middle School will expand capacity.

The board now has to figure out what to do with vacant properties once the buildings close and students move to other schools. For example, they can lease them to developers, turn them into affordable housing or convert them to community centers.

The board will also have to make decisions on rezoning neighborhoods.

Community forums will be held early next year as the redistricting process begins.

State Representative Bryce Berry (D-Atlanta) issued a statement calling last night’s vote “disheartening.”

“APS has a tough job, and I know these school closure decisions aren’t made lightly. Still, I worry about what this means for families — especially in Southwest Atlanta — who rely on neighborhood schools for stability, connection and community,” Berry said.

“For years, some state leaders have insisted that districts ‘do more with less,’ pushing them to shrink their budgets, while demands on classrooms keep growing,” Berry said.” That pressure doesn’t fall on abstract systems; it lands on real students, real educators and real neighborhoods now facing the loss of their local schools.”

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

City takes next steps in affordable housing initiative

By Collin Kelley A groundbreaking ceremony was held Dec. 8 for a new senior affordable housing apartment complex on the site of the longdelayed redevelopment of the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center site.

The revamp of the Civic Center site in Old Fourth Ward has been nearly a decade in the making, but city officials said the groundbreaking is just A rendering of senior apartment units to the beginning of a $1 billion be constructed at the Atlanta Civic Center mixed-use development. site. (Courtesy of Atlanta Housing) The $60-million six-story apartment building will On Dec. 3, Mayor Andre Dickens include 148 affordable one-bedroom joined city leaders and partners to apartments for senior low-income mark the opening of the city’s third residents. The development – a partnership Rapid Housing Initiative project, The between Atlanta Housing, The Michaels Waterworks Village, in Berkeley Park.

Organization, Sophy Capital and Republic Transforming an underutilized Atlanta Properties – is expected to open in 2027.

Watershed property off Northside Drive, The 19-acre Civic Center property will the development features two multi-story eventually contain 1,500 mixed-income modular buildings with approximately 100 apartments, retail. offices, a hotel, and a studio units (250 square feet each) and supermarket, according to a report from four office spaces. the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

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Where love and learning meet.

The Lovett School develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life. Our approach to educating the whole child emphasizes learning by doing and joyful learning.

Visit us on the Riverbank! Sign up for a tour at lovett.org/admission. Applications are due February 1.

The Lovett School | 4075 Paces Ferry Rd, N.W., Atlanta GA 30327 | P: (404) 262-3032

FOCUS ON EDUCATION A SPECIAL SECTION

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ough Draft presents our 17th annual 20 Under 20 honorees for 2026. As in past years, we are in awe of these students’ abilities to excel academically while giving back to the community in such meaningful ways. Again, this year’s nominations were impressive with more than 100 entries received. From creating nonprofits and fundraising for cancer research and other worthy causes, this year’s honorees have gone above and beyond to bring positivity and leadership to the community. While narrowing down this year’s honorees and runnersup was the toughest ever, we think these students will in-

Avery Frank, 17 Mariam Darb, 16 Julia Barton, 17 Audrey Lyons, 17 Kate Krugman, 17 Midtown High School

spire and motivate you to give back to your communities.

– Collin Kelley and Cathy Cobbs ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

Photo by Isadora Pennington

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s the founders and leadership team of Midtown High School’s chapter of March for Our Lives, these young women have launched efforts in both the school and district to increase awareness of gun violence and advocate for state policy. In 2024-25, they established the organization in the wake of the shooting at Apalachee High School. Collaborating with administration, they organized a school-wide walkout and led the demonstration in our stadium, delivering moving speeches that they wrote together. More than 1,700 students and teachers attended their demonstration and wore black in support of the movement. Later that year, they organized phonebanking efforts to ensure those impacted by Hurricane Helene could access voting areas and reached more than 2,000 voters.

In February, the group launched a district-wide pledge for safe firearm storage – creating a flyer for a pledge, working with the district to send it to parents across Atlanta Public Schools, and tabling at school open houses. In March, they led a student press conference at the Georgia Capitol to advocate for the passage of legislation concerning safe gun storage.

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Continued from page 17

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t his five-year-old checkup, Gira’s pediatrician discovered a vision problem in his left eye that led to a diagnosis of amblyopia (“lazy eye”) – a condition that, if left untreated, can cause permanent vision loss. Fortunately, early intervention and prescription eyeglasses corrected his sight, leaving him with a lasting appreciation for the gift of vision and sparking a lifelong commitment to vision health. In ninth grade, Gira transformed that personal experience into purpose by founding Eyes 4 Everyone, a Will Gira, 16 nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that all The Westminster Schools individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to eyeglasses and vision care. Since its inception, Gira has recruited and trained eight student chapter presidents representing eight schools or locations across the country, collected and donated more than 1,000 pairs of eyeglasses to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation – valued at more than $100,000 – and helped recycle more than 150 pounds of plastic and metal. "Ever since I got my first pair of eyeglasses at the age of five, I have known I wanted to help others see the way I see,” he said. “Giving back to others has helped me achieve this goal and shown me that each act, big or small, can change someone's life forever."

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eonard learned early how to navigate – and succeed – as a student with dyslexia. When she realized how difficult it was to find information about accommodations, testing, and accessible services on college campuses, she decided to help students with similar needs.

Leonard developed a video series combining interviews with education accessibility experts and online tools to assess programs and navigate the transition to college. She pitched the idea to the International Dyslexia Association Georgia Teen Board and then spent this summer Kenzie Leonard, 16 writing, producing, and hosting the IDA The Paideia School College Q&A Interview YouTube series. As an invited panelist at DyslexicaCon 2025, Leonard translated her personal experience into systemic recommendations to an engaged national audience. “I’m still learning, but I’ve seen how much it matters when students feel understood and supported,” she said.

“If I can help create even a small sense of clarity or confidence for someone else, that feels meaningful to me.”

Atlanta’s premier undergraduate learning experience.

oglethorpe.edu 20 | JANUARY 2026

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romoff is a student leader whose programs and service have had a substantial impact across the greater Atlanta community and beyond. As a high school freshmen, she founded Future Warriors, mobilizing 70 high-school leaders to strengthen arts, academics, and athletics at North Atlanta High and Sutton Middle schools, impacting hundreds of students across Atlanta, and created 4 Green Futures, a fully student-run environmental education program operating across Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida that has planted hundreds of trees, removed invasive species, and engaged more than Julia Promoff, 17 6,000 students. She revitalized her school’s North Atlanta High School defunct environmental club to nearly 100 members and founded Windows Magazine and Wire TV, serving as the school’s youngest editor-in-chief. “Change is possible when we work together as a community towards something greater than ourselves,” she said. “If you want to make a difference, don’t let your age stop you – all you need is a problem and the passion to fix it.”

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lexander has been contributing to his community at a local level since he was young enough to understand the importance of giving back. He created a fundraising website for Experience Camps, a national no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver, which is administered through Camp Manitou. Alexander began volunteering with Friendship Circle of Atlanta in 2023, a nonprofit built on the Torah adage “Love your fellow as yourself.” Alexander also participated in the 2024-2025 Youth Leadership Sandy Springs program and Jaron Alexander, 18 has been volunteering with Creating Riverwood International Connected Communities since 2022. “I am honored to receive this award, and I will Charter High School stay dedicated to continuing to pursue my passion for serving my community. I strive to accomplish work that inspires others to think differently and dream bigger,” he said.

Providing an exceptional student experience focused on the pursuit of academic and personal excellence.

Learn more at

westminster.net/admissions 1424 West Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30327

Love. Challenge. Lead. Change.

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hrough her 21st Century Leaders ambassadorship, Lang has engaged more than 20,000 high school students across Georgia, spearheading initiatives in leadership development, career exploration, and diversity and inclusion. Her Women in Technology ambassadorship has championed gender equity in STEM roles. As a United Nations Youth Delegate, she has collaborated with peers from more than 190 countries, representing the United States as one of four delegates. Lang aspires to advance clinical neurology and neuropsychology research while continuing her lifelong commitment to service through her own nonprofit, which will expand STEM access and mentorship opportunities for underserved youth. “Compromise for your dream, but never compromise on your dream,” she said.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

Hannah Lang, 18 Georgia State University

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aye helped guide Weber’s Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Student Visionaries team to raise $125,000 for cancer research, earned its Impact Award, and was then invited to the program’s leadership committee.

With goals of becoming a health professional, she is part of Columbia University’s BrainSTORM cohort, designing a platform to identify pre-clinical Alzheimer’s symptoms. She co-founded Weber’s first HOSA chapter, shadowed physicians at Piedmont’s Transplant Institute, and completed pre-med programs at Brown and Georgetown. She is also the creator and host of “Low-key, Let’s Disagree,” a Gen-Z podcast about engaging across differences. An honors student and varsity tennis competitor, Jagger pairs initiative with follow-through, turning ideas into outcomes.

Celebrating Future-Ready, Courageous Leaders

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Inquire today!

3K - Grade 12 aischool.org

RoughDraft_Grad_4.94x6.185.indd 1

Jagger Kaye, 17 The Weber School

12/15/25 3:44 PM

lay was diagnosed at the age of 10 with stage four rhabdomyosarcoma, a soft tissue cancer in her right foot. She faced 18 months of chemo, a below-theknee amputation, and two full rounds of radiation. Following remission, in middle school, she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer in her right shoulder blade, resulting from the side effects of her radiation treatment. After a 12-month battle, she again achieved remission, but then developed acute myeloid leukemia. In June, she underwent a bone marrow transplant and has again achieved remission, although because of her weakened immune system, she has Keren Clay, 17 remained in Hospital Homebound for her senior year. Throughout her seven-year Lakeside High School battle, Clay raised close to $250,000 for pediatric cancer research, as well as speaking at a Congressional Caucus in Washington, D.C. She has volunteered and raised funds for Rally Foundation, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Swim Across America, and Camp Sunshine, totalling more than 3,000 hours. “I’ve faced three different cancers, but each one has strengthened my determination to help others,” she said. “I won’t stop fighting until kids get the treatments and futures they deserve.”

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in leads a pioneering project to survey the microplastic pollution in Atlanta’s waterways. After securing a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund, Lin trained 20 high school and college students to collect water samples at sites along the Chattahoochee River and analyze them in a chemistry lab. Her team established the first database of microplastics in Atlanta’s natural waters and hosted a forum to share their findings publicly. She founded the First Step team when she was a freshman at North Atlanta High School with a clear vision: a future where people think about how to make the world a betAnnie Lin, 19 ter place, taking small, but concrete steps.

Georgia Tech Now the team has grown to more than 250 student members across 36 metro-Atlanta schools. Lin serves as one of the youngest board members at the Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Sustainability and Resilience Advisory Board. “Youth should be at the center of community action because we will be the ones in charge as many social issues become more significant and relevant than ever,” she said.

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ussell received a grant from Oglethorpe to organize a mealpacking event in collaboration with Operation Feed, which distributes meal kits to schools and provides emergency aid. The event raised awareness about food insecurity and empowered undergraduates to make an impact. Russell is a member of the Inclusive Excellence Committee at Oglethorpe, which discusses issues affecting students. She chose to take action to address food insecurity because she knows it affects many people, including students. Student volunteers at the meal-packing event left feeling inspired, Jourdan Russell, 19 empowered, and had fun while serving the Oglethorpe University greater Atlanta community. Russell is also the fundraising chair for Mock Trial and a fellow with The King Center. “Service is something I hope to continue promoting because its impact is transformational,” Russell said.

“Empowering my classmates to use their skills to be civically engaged brings me tremendous joy.”

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

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astro is a first-generation Mexican American student and co-founder/project lead of the VAYU climate initiative, an eco-friendly terracotta cooling system designed to reduce extreme heat in vulnerable environments. Castro has led the project from its early concept through community partnerships, funding, outreach, and public presentation. The project is now funded by the Atlanta Youth Climate Fund. In addition to VAYU, she has earned selective STEM enrichment experiences, including Georgia Tech’s Architectural and Aerospace Programs, the Bill Harrison Foundation studios, and NCWIT Luna Castro, 14 BridgeUp STEM. Castro’s long-term goal is North Springs High School to become a mechanical engineer, creating innovative environmental solutions that address climate change. "Being part of the VAYU team has strengthened my passion for sustainable engineering, and I hope to continue contributing to projects that address climate challenges together with others," she said.

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paceacademy.org/admissions

GLOBAL LEADERS, MADE IN ATLANTA

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he tennis doubles partners founded Serve First, an initiative to close the economic gap in the sport they’ve played most of their lives. Since their junior year at Lovett, the seniors have collected more than $22,000 in equipment to outfit fledgling tennis programs within Atlanta Public Schools. The co-captains felt compelled to do something after an opposing high Grayson Cooke, 17 and school team showed up to the Finn Graber, 16 courts without basic equipment two hours late because their The Lovett School bus broke down. When they learned that Benjamin E. Mays High School was interested in building a tennis program, they held an equipment drive and fundraising campaign and teamed up with Dick’s Sporting Goods and nonprofits Most Valuable Kids of Greater Atlanta, Field of Dreams Academy, and The Agape Tennis Foundation to provide gear and lessons. The duo is focused on expanding their reach to a third APS school. "It has been a true joy to help as many people as possible gain access to the sport I’ve loved for so many years,” Finn said.

Grayson agreed, adding, “Although the physical impact of this ongoing project may be visible in the lives of others, there has been an equally impactful interpersonal shift.”

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WHY JUST LEARN WHEN YOU CAN EXPLORE? At Paideia, curiosity drives everything.

Ages 3–12th grade | Druid Hills, Atlanta paideiaschool.org

24 | JANUARY 2026

win brothers Max and Anselm Bell are leading a youthdriven movement to ensure that every child in Georgia with dyslexia has the right to read. Through the organization they founded, WriteToRead.org, they have become powerful advocates for literacy equity by raising awareness, influencing policy, and mobilizing students, parents, and teachers statewide. WriteToRead.org also hostMax and Anselm Bell, 17 ed an Atlanta screening of “Left Behind,” the award-winning The Westminster Schools documentary on the nation’s first public literacy academy.

The nonprofit has presented at DyslexiaCon25 and sponsored DyslexiaDash25, the IDA-GA’s fundraiser for literacy. Max also serves on the Alumni Board of The Schenck School and the Teen Board of the International Dyslexia Association of Georgia and interns at Dysolve, an AI-powered dyslexia remediation company. Anselm interns at Outlyer.Space, a startup developing a global spacecraft telemetry network selected for Stanford’s StartX accelerator. “As a dyslexic, I’ve learned to lean into and embrace challenges. Dyslexia means I learn differently, but that difference is my superpower because it pushes me to solve problems in new ways,” Max said. “Launching Write to Read is our version of a social impact startup—identifying a real problem, assembling a team, and making an impact that outlives a single project or class,” Anselm said.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

LIFELONG LEARNING, LASTING IMPACT. THE

WOODWARD WAY woodward.edu/inquire

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artin uses his skills as an amateur radio operator to serve the Atlanta community – and beyond.

When Hurricane Helene hit in 2024, Martin manned his ham radio overnight, assisting with wellness checks and connecting people in need. For his service, he received a letter of commendation from the American Radio Relay League/ The National Association for Amateur Radio. Martin is also a volunteer member of the Atlanta Amateur Radio Emergency Service chapter and helped revive the Atlanta ARES practice net, something he has run since he was licensed at age 14. For Benji Martin, 16 the last two years, he has deployed with Chamblee High School Atlanta ARES for the Peachtree Road Race and the Publix Atlanta Marathon. "My passion to help others comes from having experienced difficult situations and from watching others as they have struggled. I have seen that I have skills that are needed to help and encourage others so that no one ever feels alone or without help,” he said.

Building a strong educational foundation for dyslexic students in grades K-6.

Visit www.schenck.org to learn more.

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embrillo is the founder of CPR For The Earth Inc., a nonprofit that organizes monthly cleanups in polluted communities around Atlanta. Since its creation, Membrillo and his team of more than 25 volunteers have collected more than 700 pounds of litter. He also partnered with the Tourette Association of America to organize a community 5K to raise funds for Tourette Syndrome research—a cause personal to him as someone diagnosed with TS at age five.

He also volunteers with the Tim Tebow Foundation’s “A Night to Shine,” serving as a buddy to guests with disabilities, and Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Backpack Buddies. “Whether it’s through music, service, or advocacy, my goal has always been the same,” he said, “to use what I love to make a lasting difference in my community.”

Oliver Membrillo, 16 Mount Vernon School

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long with her cousins, Singh co-founded a nonprofit called The Atl Seva Project, which invites peers and neighbors to participate in a monthly sandwich drive for Atlanta Mission’s My Sister’s House. In Punjabi, the language spoken by her father's side of the family, “seva” means selfless service. Singh has a standing annual summer tradition of working alongside elementary school teachers to set up their classrooms for the upcoming school year. Being of Mexican and Indian/ Punjabi heritage, she has a broad worldview and is informed by the traditions of all of these cultures. “Through my volunteering, I’ve made so many great connections and friendships that are so significant to me,” she said.

26 | JANUARY 2026

Raya Singh, 16 North Atlanta High School

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

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he trio worked to raise funds for the Blood Cancer United organization.

Their team, Team Curemakers, competed against 37 other Atlantabased teams and received the title of Student Visionaries of the Year, which is given to the team that raises the most money and significantly impacts the lives of cancer patients and their families, as well as funding for further research. The team presented to numerous Fortune 500 companies, ultimately raising $283,138. Because of the amount of money the three raised, they were able to direct a portion of the funds to a detailed type of blood cancer, specifically Acute Myeloid Leukemia. They were invited to New York City in order to learn more about the active research being done by blood cancer researchers around the United States.

Isabelle Cheroff, 18 Tori McMillan, 18 Carter Rumph, 18 The Lovett School

Share the profiles of these outstanding students by scanning the QR code to visit our website.

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aised in Biarritz, France, a coastal town known for its biodiversity, Gabara's connection to conservation is personal. In Atlanta, she leads Marist’s Environmental Science Club, spearheads schoolwide recycling and composting efforts, and helped redesign the sophomore garden with native plants. She also volunteers with the Surfrider Foundation and regularly participates in local watershed cleanups. Gabara is pursuing advanced environmental and STEM studies through competitive programs at Harvard University, Duke University, Georgia Tech, the University of California, and more. Gabara’s leadership extends into robotics, where she serves as Emma Gabara, 17 president of Georgia FIRST Robotics. A national competitor with Marist’s FTC and FRC teams, she Marist School also developed STEM curriculum for the Reach for Excellence program. “My work matters because I want to help build pathways for students who don't yet see themselves in STEM. Creating access, supporting teams, and protecting the environment all connect back to the idea that everyone deserves a chance to make a difference,” she said.

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hung noticed that many of her peers were uncertain about their interests, future majors, and potential career paths during a mission trip last year, when she met a younger student who said they wanted to become a doctor, not because they were passionate about medicine, but simply because it was the only career they knew. In response, Chung founded Dream Messengers, a student-led nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore diverse career paths, discover their interests, and reduce the stress of planning their futures. She has published in two independent research journals: “Prediction of Molecular Links Between Alzheimer’s and CSV Disease” Jinah Chung, 17 and “Image-Only Parkinson’s Screening from Scanned Spirals and Meanders: Tree-Based Wesleyan School Ensembles as a Deployable Baseline.” This past summer, Chung attended Korea University, where she conducted lab experiments on Alzheimer’s disease in rats. "Knowing the struggle that the students go through when deciding their path, I wish to be a source of help by guiding them toward their dreams,” she said.

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ing is the founder and editor-in-chief of AIS’ first literary magazine “Golden Feather” and has motivated students and faculty, as well as people across the U.S. and internationally, to engage in service to reach the goal of the Realize the Dream Foundation: 100 million hours of service by the 100th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. She chairs the Youth Council for the foundation, leading a coalition of 33 students who provide programming advice and create as well as lead service projects based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals within their communities. King is not just carrying the legacy of her grandfather, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but is clearly forging her own path. In 2024, she authored a children’s book inspiring the next generation to similarly find their own path. "To me, community service is about love in action,” she said. “Service has the power to change everything – our communities, our perspectives, and even our own hearts."

Yolanda King, 17 Atlanta International School

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2020

Miley Lev, 17 The Weber School

UNDER RUNNERS-UP

Devin May, 18 Ben Franklin Academy May was recognized for his help in the community with the Dr. C. Michael York Service Award.

Ishann Raj, 16 Riverwood International Charter School Among his many endeavors, Raj has raised thousands of dollars for Solidarity Sandy Springs and collected nearly 3,000 articles of clothing for people in need.

Jalen Hagens Jr., 16 Mount Vernon School A prolific artist, Hagens serves as a VOX ATL Youth Poet Laureate Ambassador and was featured in Jet magazine for his art installation on Black hairstyles.

Julia Castro, 14 Atlanta International School Castro has been a volunteer at PAWS Atlanta for four years and features adoptable cats on her @cathousehunting IG account.

Lauren Reed, 19 Georgia Tech Reed has written two books, including “Purpose Over Pressure,” which helps young scholars struggling with choosing a college major and career path.

Lia Heard, 17 The Westminster Schools Heard knitted more than 200 beanies for MadHatter Knits, a nonprofit dedicated to supplying knit hats for premature babies, and guided fellow students in creating healthcare kits.

Peter Soulimiotis, 17 St. Pius X Soulimiotis was awarded the Congressional Award Silver Medal for his hundreds of hours of volunteer work impacting 23 Atlanta non profits, including Habitat for Humanity.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

At the Atlanta Wild Animal Rescue Rehabilitation Center, Lev provides hands-on medical care to animals and is also a longtime volunteer at Zoo Atlanta.

Reid Alexander, 16 Riverwood International Charter School

At just eight years old, Alexander created Hannah’s Bake Sale to raise awareness and money for the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, totalling more than $53,000.

Lakshmi “Santoshi” Puttagunta, 18

Denzell Watkins, 18, and Margot Pritchard, 18

JC Curry, 14

Greater Atlanta Christian School

A member of numerous organizations, including Amnesty International, Curry is devoted to Trinity Table in Downtown Atlanta, which serves a hot lunch to those in need on Sundays.

Friends and classmates, Watkins, who is GACS’ head prefect, and Pritchard have devoted hundreds of hours to various charities and causes at school and in the community.

Chandler Kirkland, 17, and Pat Rosenzweig,16 The Paideia School & The Connections School of Atlanta The duo has been involved in a peer-topeer partnership between Paideia and Connections, where students connect around shared values of acceptance and inclusion of neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals.

Acadame of the Oaks

Ava Grant, 16 Pace Academy Grant is the driving force behind Pace’s partnership with GlamourGals Foundation, a national organization that connects teens and senior citizens through conversation, companionship, and mini makeovers.

Woodward Academy Puttagunta has devoted countless hours to health service organizations and serves as co-executive director of the My Mind Matters organization to promote awareness around mental health.

Shaan Sancheti, 16 Wesleyan School Sancheti is the founder and president of the nonprofit Youth Advisory Council for REAL (realnonprofit.com), collecting tons of books and food for Africa.

Shreya Sehgal, 17 Chamblee High School Sehgal developed an educational platform called Sideline Science to share knowledge about sports medicine, recovery, and mental health in athletics.

Sidon Afeworki, 17 Marist School Afeworki co-founded Ahwatey United, a nonprofit dedicated to improving career readiness and community engagement for Eritrean youth in Georgia.

Tessa Stuart, 17 Pace Academy Stuart’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes motivated her to found T1DTogether. com, which connects newly diagnosed individuals with peers who can offer guidance and support.

Zaynab Farid, 17 The Lovett School Farid is the founder of the educational organization South Asian Alliance and The Give Back Coalition, a youth-led service organization.

JANUARY 2026 |

29

DINING

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Charleston’s Lewis Barbecue makes its much-anticipated debut at Ansley Mall

Photo by Sarra Sedghi

By Sarra Sedghi Charleston-based Lewis Barbecue opened its first Georgia location at Ansley Mall in Piedmont Heights on Dec. 8. The restaurant flanks the Atlanta Beltline, with a blue bridge spanning across a gully that provides pedestrians and cyclists on the trail direct access to Ansley Mall.

A counter-service restaurant specializing in Texas-style barbecue (pit master and founder John Lewis spent his formative years in El Paso and Austin), Lewis Barbecue first opened in Charleston nearly a decade ago. The Charleston location was just added to

the Michelin Guide to the American South as a Bib Gourmand.

Lewis told Rough Draft he’s been scouting venues for an Atlanta location for about six years. “I’ve been trying to find a perfect spot that met all the needs that we needed to do to this operation, which is pretty big,” he said.

Lewis hopes his Atlanta restaurant and bar, located in the former Hideaway gay bar space, can function as another gathering spot within the sprawling shopping complex bordering Midtown, Piedmont Heights, and Morningside.

He’s spent the past six months familiarizing himself with the area and Ansley Mall. Lewis said he eats at neighboring Bantam & Biddy at least twice a week.

The trademark of Texas-style barbecue comes in the commitment to beef. In addition to sliced and chopped beef brisket, Lewis Barbecue offers beef back ribs daily and pastrami, chickenfried steak, and prime rib as weekly specials.

“I think beef is better than pork,” Lewis said. “I mean, would you rather have a steak or a pork chop if you had to choose one?”

Texas-style barbecue also involves an entirely different cooking process.

Instead of cooking over direct heat, pitmasters use offset heat.

“There’s a firebox all the way on one end and the meats are in a different chamber there,” Lewis explained. “It’s all live fire and live wood, but it’s indirect.

It’s almost 100 percent combustion on the wood, since you’re not cooking over coals. So, it’s not quite as smoky.”

Everything at Lewis Barbecue is

cooked from scratch, meaning meats spend about 18 hours in the pit. Lewis engineered all the barbecue pits himself.

“They’re specially designed just to make perfect, perfect, perfect brisket,” he said.

The streamlined ordering process consists of stations for cold sides, hot sides, and meats. It’s efficient, but intentional, like a Buc-ee’s with higher standards. Everything is sold by the pound. Regional Texas ingredients, like green chile (make space for the corn pudding and the barbecue sauce) and pinto beans (add pico de gallo on top), also make an appearance. And yes, you should absolutely spend the extra $1.50 on a hunk of cheddar cheese.

An open-air smokehouse on the roof overlooks the Beltline below. There’s a walk-up window for ordering takeout at the foot of the trail bridge and an outdoor courtyard with seating for more than 200 people.

Bar Lewis, located opposite the restaurant, comes fully stocked with spirits and an extensive selection of bottled sodas, including Cheerwine, Red Rock, and Boylan Bottling Company.

The atmosphere at the bar evokes 1970s-era Texas, with clusters of midcentury furniture pointing inward to form conversation pits, funky folk art on vintage wallpaper, and a terrazzo bar top bordered with paisley-embossed leather.

“Atlanta has one of my favorite food scenes in the country,” Lewis said of opening his first Atlanta restaurant.

“Ansley Mall is a gathering place for all the neighborhoods around it. [The location is] the perfect fit, being right on the Beltline.”

Lewis Barbecue (lewisbarbecue.com), 1544 Piedmont Ave., Piedmont Heights. Hours: Sunday–Monday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Photo courtesy Lewis Barbecue

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John Lewis, founder of Lewis BBQ. (Photo by Lizzy Rollins)

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ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

Daddy D’z, Agave and JavaVino announce closures D’z, however, JavaVino won’t go completely dark. Instead, it will shift to Three longtime Atlanta restaurants a wholesale coffee business, something shocked customers with closing co-owner Heddy Kuhl sees as a positive announcements in December. development.

Daddy D’z, located at Memorial In addition to serving as a cafe and Drive and Hill Street, ceased operations wine bar, JavaVino roasts coffee for after service on Dec. 31. The 35-year-old local restaurants, along with “green,” restaurant is considered an Atlanta classic unroasted beans for regional roasters. and was featured on Food Network’s “[This] will actually help us get “Sauced.” Owner Christianah Cokerour family’s coffee and farmer-direct Jackson told WSB-TV that the landlord coffee into more hands,” Kuhl said of pivoting to wholesale.

“We want to travel to coffee farms and build further relationships with farmers and roast and distribute the coffee.”

“We’re getting older and we want to focus on what’s most important.

We decided that this was the best path for our family,” she added.

The roasting facility in Stone Mountain will remain intact, and JavaVino patrons can still purchase its coffee at the Grant Park Farmers Market and local shops such as Candler Park JavaVino is shifting its focus to wholesale Market. operations. (Courtesy of Heddy Kuhl) JavaVino loyalty program members will is selling the building, but that she be able to transition the cafe’s physical hopes to reopen Daddy D’z in another stars into online credit. Kuhl compiled location. an FAQ page on JavaVino’s website Just a few blocks away in (javavino.com) for customers with Cabbagetown, the owners of Agave further questions. announced plans to close the Kuhl and co-owner Steve Franklin are Southwestern restaurant at the end of currently finalizing the sale of the North January. Agave, which opened in 2000 Highland space with a new owner who on Boulevard, launched a GoFundMe plans to open a similar cafe called At fundraiser for the restaurant’s affected Arbeta. It, too, will serve JavaVino coffee. employees. “[The new owner] reminds me of Then, over in Poncey-Highland, the us when we were coming up with the owners of JavaVino announced the Dec. idea [for JavaVino] and the enthusiasm 14 closure of the coffee and wine bar behind it,” Kuhl said. “I think there was after nearly 22 years on North Highland. a lot of good energy between us and the The owners of all three businesses buyer, and it worked out pretty nicely.” cited industry challenges, such as a “We’re replacing ourselves in the reduced customer base and higher community with somebody that we ingredient costs, as motivations for the trust [and who] is a good fit for the decision to call it quits. community,” she continued.

However, unlike Agave and Daddy

By Sarra Sedghi

Daddy D’z BBQ (Courtesy WSB-TV) ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

JANUARY 2026 |

31

REAL ESTATE

Looking Ahead

Real estate agents make predictions for the 2026 market

The interior of a home on Delmar Avenue in Grant Park. (Courtesy Brian Woodworth)

By Shandra Hill Smith While housing inventory in Atlanta may remain low, the area is experiencing high demand as prospective homeowners seek options for walkable lifestyles and more, according to real estate professionals with their pulse on the 2026 housing market.

In turn, that “limited inventory, minimal new development, and sustained demand for architecturally significant homes are reinforcing premium values,” said Jim Getzinger, a Realtor who leads the Jim Getzinger & Co. team at Compass.

“Rates appear to be settling into a more predictable range, and buyers are adjusting accordingly,” Getzinger said. “While price growth may be more measured, Intown Atlanta remains well supported. Demand for well-located homes continues to outpace supply, which helps stabilize pricing even in a changing rate environment.”

Brian Woodworth echoes that sentiment.

“We’re continuing to see high demand in Intown with steady appreciation rates,” said Woodworth, a real estate professional with the Intown office of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties.

It’s proving to be a positive time for buyers, who currently have the opportunity to “negotiate on the purchase price and contract terms on many transactions,” Woodworth said.

He added that interest rates are dropping, with rates in the low six percent range through the fourth quarter of 2025.

“The Fed recently cut rates again in December by a quarter point and has indicated the potential for additional cuts in 2026,” Woodworth said. “Interest rates in the high five percent range are a good possibility in 2026.”

Waiting on interest rates to drop, agents say, isn’t the best answer.

32 | JANUARY 2026

“Some buyers have been holding off for lower interest rates, but as rates drop, competition is rising and so will prices, resulting in more bidding wars,” Woodworth said. “If buyers wait for rates to drop, the home they want may have appreciated to a price that offsets the interest rate drop. Buy now and refinance later.”

People waiting for rates to drop, said David Pruett, an agent with Ansley Real Estate in Atlanta, “are missing out on opportunities right now.”

“Waiting for rates to drop is a very poor excuse for buyers,” Pruett said. “If you are one of those buyers, I highly encourage you to speak with a lender and get as educated as possible on the difference between a 6.15 rate and a 5.99 rate.”

Woodworth added that as interest rates drop, “buyer demand will increase and

Jim Getzinger

A home on Rice Street. (Courtesy Brian Woodworth)

buyers will end up paying more.”

There is hope when it comes to interest rates, though, Pruett pointed out. “If we continue to see poor consumer confidence and a poor labor market, that bodes well for mortgage rates to drop. Will we ever see what we saw a few years ago? No. For those in the market or thinking about getting into the market, a six percent rate is historically a great rate to have.”

In the current market, Pruett said, while sellers have the upper hand, “buyers have become very savvy in understanding that sellers have cash. Buyers now expect homes on the market to be updated and turnkey.

Homes that have major projects to be completed are sitting on the market longer and selling at lower average prices.”

Spending money on repairs and improvements will lead to “faster sales at higher prices,” Woodworth added. And sellers who could use a bit of support can turn to professionals for getting their homes ready to move swiftly, Pruett suggested.

“There are multiple brokerages in town that have the resources to help sellers get a house ready for the market by using their equity to get the property market ready,” Pruett shared. “If you are thinking about selling, speak with a professional about where to spend your money to get the house ready and where you will see your largest return on investment. For example, painting and landscaping could be more important than updating your countertops in the kitchen.”

For sellers, “painting and minor upgrades and improvements, especially to kitchens and bathrooms, will make your home sell faster and for more money,” Woodworth stated. “We recently had a seller invest $45,000 in renovations and improvements prior to listing. We were able to increase the list price by $130,000 and the home sold with multiple offers within days. For buyers, get fully approved by a

lender before shopping so you are ready to make an offer when you find the right home.”

Getzinger echoed those sentiments: “Buyers are far more discerning. Turnkey homes and properties with architectural character continue to draw strong interest, while homes that feel dated are taking longer. Relocation buyers, in particular, tend to move quickly when location, condition, and lifestyle align.”

The time for finding the right home will be the second half of quarter one and all of quarter two of 2026. In fact, Pruett considers 2026 to be “one of the healthiest markets we have seen in recent years,” with buyers having the power to negotiate.

“Then we will enjoy a nice summer pause followed up by a frisky fall market that will produce a flurry of activity,” Pruett added. “Heading into Q4, we run into the midterm elections and the holidays.

Election seasons typically bring uncertainty

Brian Woodworth ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

Photographer: Brian Hall Photography | Designers: Angelique Baez, ViviCo Interiors + Michael C. Morris, M. Crisler Designs

David Pruett

to consumer confidence, and the holidays are busy; therefore, Q4 will be a slower period of time. At the end of 2026, prices will have increased, and total sales will be up year over year.”

One challenge to expect will come for first-time homebuyers, said Pruett.

“First-time home buyers will continue to struggle as affordability continues to be an issue for entry-level real estate,” he said, “however, there are some amazing opportunities for these buyers in Smyrna, Tucker, West Midtown, and more. He cautions that starting out, first-time homebuyers may not end up with a home in the area of preference initially, adding that “real estate for first-time homebuyers has always been about sacrifice, whether that means location, size, or condition.

What is important for a first-time homebuyer is getting a property that they can sell for a win down the road so they can eventually live in that dream neighborhood.”

A home on Olympic Place in Decatur. (Courtesy David Pruett)

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Shipman named South Arts CEO: 5 key takeaways for Atlanta and the Southeast

By Sherri Daye Scott South Arts, the nine-state regional arts organization, will enter a transitional year in 2026, and so will Atlanta civic leader Doug Shipman, who becomes the organization’s next president and CEO this month. In a conversation with Rough Draft, Atlanta’s outgoing city council president shared why this move represents a return to his roots — and what he believes the Southeast’s arts ecosystem needs most right now.

Here are five things to know as Shipman steps into the role.

1. He’s returning to arts leadership, but now with a regional lens Shipman has led major Atlanta institutions — including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) and the Woodruff Arts Center — but South Arts gives him something different: scale.

The organization funds artists and

Doug Shipman begins his role as South Arts CEO in January 2026, guiding the regional arts organization into its next chapter. (Courtesy of South Arts)

arts groups across disciplines, runs major awards and fellowships, and works directly with state arts agencies. For Shipman, the appeal was immediate. The job centers on building systems that help artists thrive, whether they’re part of a metropolitan arts scene or working in rural communities.

2. His rural Southern upbringing shapes how he sees the work

Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons + David Coucheron, violin + director

Stutzmann Conducts Schubert’s Great Symphony + Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chamber Chorus

Ellington and Elgar’s Enigma Variations + Shostakovich’s Second Piano Concerto

America @ 250: Copland + Barber + Randall Goosby performing Barber’s Violin Concerto

Shipman grew up in rural Arkansas, and that background remains central to how he understands creative ecosystems.

He talks about the Southeast as a region with “an incredible array of stories” — from coastal Geechee communities to Appalachian traditions to the Latino and immigrant communities reshaping cities like Atlanta. For Shipman, serving the Southest means recognizing that cultural richness is already here; the work is supporting and sustaining it.

3. He’s stepping in as public arts funding pulls back.

A major thread in Shipman’s early thinking: the National Endowment for the Arts’ reduction and refocusing of grant support, which can account for 20% or more of some organizations’ budgets. Shipman sees this as a defining challenge for the next decade. South Arts, he says, can help by:

12.25-Ad-Atlanta Intown-4.94x8.28 v1.indd 1

34 | JANUARY 2026

12/12/25 1:44 PM

■

Funding artists and organizations directly

■

Identifying new models to replace lost state and federal dollars

■

Making a cohesive regional case to national philanthropy and private funders

■

Creating a long-term roadmap for sustainable arts investment in the Southeast

4. He believes the South is a cultural leader — but the infrastructure hasn’t caught up.

Shipman notes that artists often begin their careers in the South, leave for national visibility, and return only after establishing their names elsewhere. For him, reversing that pattern requires: ■

Policy that protects creative space

■

Zoning and real estate strategies that keep arts districts viable

■

Economic development models that treat arts and culture as an industry, not a side benefit

■

Pipelines that support artists across the lifespan of their careers

He points to film and TV as proof that strong infrastructure can keep creative workers rooted here.

5. He’s not an artist; he’s a catalyst.

Shipman is clear about his role: he is not a maker of artworks but a builder of systems that allow artists to work more freely. He describes himself as someone who “tries to make things better for the arena.”

His first 90 days will focus on listening tours with stakeholders across all nine states, conversations with national funders, and collaboration with leaders of other regional arts organizations. A year from now, he hopes South Arts will be seen as indispensable — a place artists turn for strategy, support, and regional connection.

ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

Fiber art’s place in Atlanta

By Sal Davis EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is a partnership with VOX ATL, a youth-led nonprofit media organization that prepares teens for life, career, and community by harnessing the power of youth voice and uncensored self-expression. Find out more at voxatl.org.

Atlanta has been bursting at the seams with rich textile stories and communities. Not many people may know about the ever-changing and deeply historical fiber arts community in Atlanta, but it has been a covert textile hub.

A major cotton producer since the 19th century, Georgia has been a leader in textile production.

In many cotton plantations, there were loom houses where enslaved women were trained to produce fabrics. Almost all rural women in Georgia did fiber arts. They wove clothes, handspun and dyed wool. Tench Coxe’s “Statement of the Arts and Manufactures,” published in 1810, reported 20,058 spinning wheels and 13,290 looms in operation in Georgia. Hand-weaving was traditionally considered a domestic craft, rather than the art form it is today.

In the late 19th century, the technique of hand-tufting was revived in Dalton, GA. This technique was used to make widely popular chenille bedspreads, which made their way to stores in many cities. Dalton’s economy now relies on textiles. This is just a microcosm of fiber arts in Georgia.

One fiber art the area is particularly known for is quilting. During the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, 397 quilts were made as gifts for each participating country. Several quilters from across Georgia, including quilters from Athens, Eatonton, and Griffin, made these quilts.

Today, organizations like the Brown Sugar Stitchers Guild continue the unique and rich legacy of quilting. Fiber Parts is a local craft shop that offers fiber arts classes, locally sourced fibers, and a variety of other supplies.

Jaime Rosegren is the owner and founder of Fiber Parts. She said, “Atlanta is such a big little city that you will inevitably connect with folks that know others in your circle. I think this is what makes the art and fiber art community so vibrant here,” she added, “I honestly don’t know. I have never found the I’ve ROUGHDRAFT.NEWS

built here in Atlanta; in any other place I’ve lived.”

Southeastern Fiber Arts Alliance (SEFAA) is one of the only organizations of its kind. They offer classes, preserve, and showcase fiber arts. They are headquartered in Chamblee, GA. Suzi Gough is the former executive director of SEFAA. When asked what place she thought fiber arts had in Atlanta’s culture, Gough said, “Not so much commercial, but we have a huge artisan community of quilters.”

Gough mentions the embroidery society as an example, “ But I did find a report… called Lost Weavings,” Gough adds. The report highlights weavings made for Atlanta office buildings between 1970 and 2000. These were quite popular in the 70s, but many were removed and forgotten about once the building was remodeled or sold. “No one knows what happened to them,” Gough says.

Weaving might have had its time in

the sun, but now crochet is trending, with over 260 million TikTok posts featuring the hashtag #crochet. Crochet first gained popularity on TikTok during the pandemic, when many people sought new hobbies to keep them occupied.

Marleigh Robinson, a teen fiber artist from Westlake High School, became interested in the art form in 2020. “I started fiber arts around the pandemic time when I had nothing better to do and I was at home.” Adding, “I definitely think social media has influenced my decision, at the time social media was my only point of social contact because we were in a pandemic so I saw people crocheting little animals all type of stuff like I could do that… and even to this day I get my ideas from social media.”

“I really do think social media has made fiber arts more accessible in terms of finding inspo for different projects to make and having tutorials and the basics of different fiber arts techniques,” says Londyn Wesley, another teen fiber artist, who also feels social media makes it

easy to gain inspiration or project ideas.

“There are so many people posting their tutorials or a pattern to something, or if you’re trying to make a tapestry, then a chart grid they made on a website, it’s just an endless amount of possibilities.”

Georgia not only has a long history of a thriving fiber arts community, but also boasts a university that has awarded the most Fiber Arts degrees of any university in the United States. The Savannah College of Art and Design has a highly regarded Fiber Arts program among all colleges and higher-learning institutions that award degrees in Fiber Arts. SCAD accounts for 31.8% of all degrees awarded. The Peachtree Handspinners Guild specializes in teaching and fostering a community of handspinners. There are many fiber arts communities in Georgia.

While Atlanta’s rich textile history may still be unknown to many, numerous fiber artists help weave together the stories of fiber arts in Atlanta today.

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