January 2012 - Atlanta INtown

Volume 18 Number 1

20Under20 Winter Arts Preview 23

January 2012

Meet 20 Intown students giving back to the community. p 4

Gluten-Free 101 35

MOBILE

New Homes Forecast 38

GROOMING

PET SPA see p. 14

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2 INtown | January 2012

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CONTENTS

ATLANTA INTOWN MEDIA, LLC Hyperlocal news print | online | social media www.AtlantaINtownPaper.com Twitter: @ATLINtownPaper

IN the Neighborhood

Wendy G. Binns OWNER & PUBLISHER (404) 586-0027 wendy@atlantaintownpaper.com Collin Kelley EDITOR (404) 586-0102 collin@atlantaintownpaper.com Elizabeth P. Holmes PRODUCTION/GRAPHIC DESIGN (404) 586-0002 x312 elizabeth@atlantaintownpaper.com INTERNS Julia Turner, Georgia Tech Osayi Endolyn, SCAD CONTRIBUTORS Cameron Adams, Ana Laura Arya,Taylor Arnold, Kate Atwood, Pamela Berger, Ann Boutwell, Tina Chadwick, Patrick Dennis, John Fleming, Brigette Flood, Valorie Ness, Sally Sears, Shandra Hill Smith, Gigi Stewart, Tim Sullivan, Stephanie Walsh, Daniel Whitefield DISTRIBUTION (404) 586-0027 SUBSCRIPTIONS Send a $15 check to Subscriptions, Atlanta INtown, 154 Krog Street, Suite 135, Atlanta, GA 30307 or read our free e-Edition online at AtlantaINtownPaper.com.

SUBMISSIONS Queries about freelance articles can be made to Collin Kelley, collin@atlantaintownpaper.com Atlanta INtown, 154 Krog Street, Suite 135, Atlanta, GA 30307.

Advertising REACH LOCAL BY A TRUSTED LOCAL BRAND for information: (404) 586-0002 x 302 wendy@atlantaintownpaper.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Janet Porter REAL ESTATE ADVERTISING (404) 501-0090 janet@atlantaintownpaper.com David Burleson (404) 918-0285 david@atlantaintownpaper.com Linda Howell (404) 586-0002 x320 linda@atlantaintownpaper.com

Who We Are & Why For more than 17 years, Atlanta INtown’s mission has been to publish local news that helps foster a sense of community. Live, work and play – we cover everything that makes our city home.

Printed with soy-based ink on 100% recycled paper.

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20 Under 20...............................................4 Grady High History..................................11 Young Intown Chess Players...................12 VOX Teen Newspaper..............................13 Pets.........................................................14 Keep it INtown: Kirkwood........................15 Health & Wellness Briefs.........................18 Living By Giving.......................................16 A Look Back............................................17 Life is a Balancing Act.............................17 Keep Kids Active.....................................19 Shop Smart.............................................20 Intown Runaround...................................20 Street Fashion.........................................22

About the Cover Daniel Whitefield of Imagopix – Daniel Whitefield Photography graciously volunteered his time and equipment to shoot this month’s 20 Under 20 Cover at Grady High School. Whitefield (along with his assistant and wife, Seonaid) shoots weddings, groups, sports activities, family and intimate portraits.

Check out the Decatur native’s website at imagopix.net to see his portfolio, equipment and to schedule a photo shoot. We would also like to thank Grady High School for allowing us to shoot the cover on the campus and teacher Vincent Martinez for being our liaison and helping us scout the locations. BELOW: Gabrielle Moore, Eve Brown, Matt Dickson and Stone Persons.

The Studio Winter Arts Preview.................................23 INtown Datebook....................................24 Tripster.....................................................24 Atlanta PlanIt...........................................26 Art Leaders’ Winter Picks........................27 Sketchworks’...........................................27 The Thinking Artist...................................28 Chicken Glam..........................................29

In Business Business & Retail Briefs..........................30 Making Sense of Social...........................30 New Music Apps.....................................31

GO GREEN Buckhead Walking Trails.........................32 Eco-Briefs................................................32 Recycling in the 04W...............................34

New you can eat Gluten-Free 101......................................35 Quick Bites..............................................36

Real Estate New Homes Forecast.............................38 Real Estate Briefs....................................41

IN Your Home The Tower................................................42 The Bob Project .....................................44 Before & After..........................................45 Mega Dens..............................................46

Find us online Follow on Twitter: @ATLINtownPaper Find on Facebook: Atlanta INtown Watch on YouTube: AtlantaINtownPaper

Letter from the Publisher Do you think Intown is a great place to live?

Well, starting on the next page, you’ll see twenty more reasons to love it. In this fourth annual 20 Under 20, we introduce you to students from across the city, of varying ages and interests with the common denominator that they give back.

Each bio is loaded with hope and represents countless hours of service. The impact of the whole lot will leave you awe-inspired.

Perhaps one student in particular will resonate with you personally, like Kate Athanassiades (see page 10) did for me. Since I’m still in the middle of my chemotherapy treatments and will start radiation in February, my heart skipped a beat to read about Kate. Through her own experience with cancer, she was motivated to rally the community to raise money for CURE Childhood Cancer. She was on my mind as I raised some money for CURE when we shaved my head (you can watch my video on INtown’s YouTube channel at youtube. com/atlantaintownpaper). One thing that is said over and over by the students we profiled is how good it feels to give back. It’s contagious.

While we’ve rounded-up 20 of the best examples of students’ community service Intown, we know there are more. And, we sure could use your help in getting nominations to us again for the next 20 Under 20 in 2013. So, keep your eyes open

and let us know. If you are under 20 years old and giving back in a big way or planning something great for 2012, it might just be you!

Wendy G. Binns Owner & Publisher

10 ar k y a t ye le aN O N rr a w

YOUR LOCAL ROOFER

FREE ESTIMATES 404-874-ROOF (7663) BELLROOFINGCO.COM

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IN the Neighborhood FEATURES, NEWS & EVENTS

20Under20

Meet our fourth annual 20 Under 20 honorees. We asked public and privates schools along with universities and service organizations to submit nominees for students who have gone above and beyond to give back to the community.

This is an exceptional crop of teens, who are doing service work that many adults would blanch at. Our honorees have traveled to distant countries, founded non-profit organizations, overcome adversity and given hundreds of hours of their personal time.

You’ll meet a young woman who survived a brain tumor and turned her love of swimming into a fundraising opportunity, which netted thousands of dollars for CURE Childhood Cancer. You’ll meet a young man who organized a trip to Tanzania and spent nearly a month helping villagers learn how to produce clean, safe drinking water. And you’ll meet a young man who collected thousands of books to help a rural Georgia community in dire need of more reading material for its students.

These are just three of the uplifting stories you’ll read and we hope the dedication of these Intown students will inspire you to give back to the community.

Atlanta INtown will be holding a reception for the honorees this month at Osteria 832 in Virgnia Highland and we would like to thank Homegrown Restaurants and Rich Chey for making this possible. In our February edition we’ll have photos from this event. If you would like to become a sponsor or nominate a student for 2013, email wendy@atlantaintownpaper. com. Thank you to the businesses and schools whose advertising support makes this section possible.

Peggy Hibbert Top Agent, Dekalb Board of Realtors® FOUNDING PARTNER

404.444.0192

peggy@atlantafinehomes.com

Recent Sales:

– Collin Kelley, Editor

Preston “Stone” T. Persons, 15 Grady High School

Stone, the son of Michael and Dana Persons, may just be a freshman, but he’s been giving back to the community for years. From the age of 10, he’s volunteered at Children’s Hospital of Atlanta, tutored at-risk kids at The Intown Academy, planted trees with Trees Atlanta, helped build a house with Habitat for Humanity in West Virginia and his family regularly hosts exchange students through the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE). “Giving back means helping people in your community, and creating a better place for all of us to live, play and work,” Stone said.

“I like the feeling you get when you find out just how much your help means to these people. “ How you can give back: Give your time, donate books, furniture, or cash to The Intown Academy (intownacademy.org); become a host family for the exchange program (ciee.org/host); volunteer at Habitat for Humanity (habitat.org).

Kaitlyn Grace Dinkins, 18

Pace Academy/Harvard University Kaitlyn, daughter of Jim and Lynn Dinkins, created a scholarship called Hope for Hoops to encourage young girls to strive for excellence in the classroom and on the basketball court.

She raised money in order to provide a scholarship for girls to play AAU basketball for Peak Performance Elite. “I am just so happy that I have been able to reach people and give girls the chance to have fun and get to play basketball,” she said. “My favorite part is physically giving the girls the plaques signifying they have won the scholarship.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to peakperformancebball.org.

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Artwork by Jill Steenhuis,used with permission. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

4 INtown | January 2012

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Eve Brown, 18 Grady High School

The daughter of Julie and Clark Brown, Eve started giving back by volunteering for Meals On Wheels and then to Habitat for Humanity. In her junior year, she helped recruit volunteers, planned fundraisers, and planned the building of a house with fellow Grady students. She’s organizing another home-build for this year and even co-planned a benefit concert at The Masquerade to raise funds. Eve is also involved with One Love Generation, nonprofit that groups student artists with professionals from Atlanta to work on community art projects every week. “I am proudest that I have found something I love doing that doesn’t benefit me solely,” Eve said. “It especially means to me that I’m sharing the good parts of my life to those who may not have those good parts, and I in turn get to share what is good in their life.”

How you can give back: Find out more and make a donation to One Love Generation at onelovegeneration.org or facebook.com/onelovegeneration

Emma van Beuningen, 17 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

Last summer, Emma traveled to Kenya to work in an orphanage, where she ran a soccer camp and a vacation Bible school for 70 orphans in a small village. She also helped interview students for The Watoto Trust Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps sponsor talented kids from poor backgrounds. Emma, the daughter of Harry and Sally van Beuningen, is also a student representative on the Horizons Atlanta Board of Trustees.

“I am most proud of my work at the orphanage,” Emma said. “When doing this work, I stepped out of my comfort zone and put myself into a completely new environment. During the six weeks I was there, I grew to love the kids, and I feel that I really changed their lives.”

How you can give back: Donate to The Watoto Trust Foundation at watototrust.org.

Jamal Thomas, 19 Morehouse College

Jamal gives back by volunteering at various mentoring programs around Intown, giving more 300 hours during his freshman year. He mentors in elementary schools with the Adams Scholars Program at Morehouse College, at the Atlanta Juvenile Court, as well as with Morehouse Mentoring Program. He also helps the homeless by volunteering at local shelters and hosted an event called It’s On the House, where more than 300 homeless came to have a meal. “Being in elementary schools has really allowed me to work first hand with the youth,” Jamal said. “It has been a blessing to see smiles on the students’ faces as well as the grades on the students papers affirming my presence in the classroom.” The son of Karen Thomas, Jamal said working with homeless and hearing their stories has “encouraged me to reevaluate my life’s purpose and the things I value. Striving to do something positive for someone everyday supports giving back to community.”

How you can give back: Donate to local homeless organizations. Email Jamal at jthomas994@gmail.com.

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ON PAGE 6

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Gabrielle Moore, 17 Spelman College

Gabrielle, the daughter of Dr. Yolanda Spiva and Wendell Spiva, created the nonprofit Bears for Babies, which gives stuffed bears to young children who have lost a parent or are the children of first responders (police, firefighter, EMT) and military personnel. During the holiday season, bears are given to children in the hospital or need encouragement. “I am proud that I am able to help brighten another child’s life in a way that I longed for when I was younger,” Gabrielle said. “To me, giving back to my community is simply helping to make it better and contributing positive energy. Giving back to the community does not require a particular amount, but rather a genuine effort.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to Bears for Babies at bearsforbabies.org or email bears4babies@gmail.com for how you can help.

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2617-B Talley Street Decatur, GA 30030 Phone: 404.687.9911 Fax: 404.687.9177 www.AtlantaGymnasticsCenter.com

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January 2012 | IN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Joely DeSimone, 19

The Paideia School/Amherst College

Devon J. Jones, 18

North Atlanta High School

Devon, fourth from right, gives back by serving as a special needs mentor, spending times with students with their school work, cooking lessons, life skills advice and physical fitness games. She also volunteers as an assistant to the teachers in the classroom, organizing class work, planning birthday celebrations for the students, grading papers, and chaperoning field trips. She’s also volunteered regularly with the Special Olympics. “It warms my heart to know that despite all the other challenges they face in life, the students are always thankful for me coming to their classes and giving me the best hugs a person could ask for,” Devon said. “I can make a difference and that I do not have to be a celebrity or an adult to make a huge impact on someone else’s life.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to the Special Olympics Georgia at specialolympicsga.org.

the PAIDEIA SCHOOL

Joely volunteers at The Global Village School in Decatur, an inspirational independent high school for refugee teenage girls from around the world. Last summer, she organized the school’s library of donated books by subject and reading level, making it easier for the girls to find books that match their interests and abilities. She also visited students’ homes and read to them before the school year began and tutored three students from Burma who were just learning English.

While at college in Massachusetts this fall, she has continued her service by mentoring disadvantaged girls at a local middle school. “The GVS girls are very bright and diligent,” Joely said. “Within just a few weeks, I could already see progress, not only in their reading skills but also in their self-confidence.” The daughter of Liz and Sam DeSimone, Joely said she has made “it a priority to contribute to my community, to make a difference.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to The Global Village School at theglobalvillageschool.org.

Kyle Singh Dhillon, 17 The Westminster Schools

Kyle is actively involved with Atlanta-based nonprofit SAFE Water Now and raised money (from friends, family and selling cookies among other endeavors) to organize a trip to Tanzania where he spent three weeks sculpting ceramic water filters, building shelves for the filters to dry on, building a new brick kiln and distributing filters to locals schools. He kept a daily blog (tanzaniaproject2011.wordpress.com) of his experience, which he shared with SAFE Water Now’s founder and four other volunteers who made the trip with him. “Although it felt short for us, we spent every minute of every day in Tanzania learning about the culture and water solutions, meeting new people, trying delicious new food, and most importantly, working hard,” Kyle said. He is the son of Dale and Marianne Dhillon.

How you can give back: Make a donation to SAFE Water Now at safewaternow.org.

Benjamin Schornstein Williams, 18 The Paideia School

Paideia is accepting applications for ages 3-12th grade for the 2012-2013 school year. Located in an in-town, university neighborhood, Paideia offers a challenging curriculum and excellent opportunities in the performing and fine arts, sports, technology and community service.

To schedule a campus tour, please complete the electronic inquiry form on our website or call the Admissions Office at 404.270.2312.

Prospective Parent Meetings

January 5, 2012 • January 18, 2012 7:30 pm in the Black Box Theater Application deadline February 1, 2012 Financial Aid deadline February 15, 2012

The Paideia School • www.paideiaschool.org 1509 Ponce De Leon Avenue Atlanta, Georgia 30307 Paideia considers applications without regard to race, religion, ethnic group, or sexual orientation.

6 INtown | January 2012

Last year, Ben ran a book drive with the Rural Library Project at Paideia, which collected 2,500 books. He then delivered the books to the rural town of Culloden, GA, which has limited access to books. “As a city-dweller, I had always taken my access to numerous libraries and bookstores for granted,” Ben said. “Visiting Culloden and interacting with the community made me realize how big an impact a new library would have on this isolated town.” Ben, the son of Ellen and David Williams, also took his love for music and formed a jazz band to perform at senior homes, addiction clinics, and veteran centers with the DeKalb Community Service Board. “For me, giving back to my community involves both service and awareness,” he said. “Giving back to the community doesn’t necessarily have to be a sacrifice or a difficult, completely selfless task. To me, giving back means that I am enjoying myself by making an impact that benefits others.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to the Rural Library Project at rurallibraryproject.org.

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January 2012 | IN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

Laetitia Butler, 17

Atlanta International School Laetitia is passionate about theatre and she’s extended that love to not only giving back locally but also globally. Last summer, she traveled to the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in western Uganda with UK-based non-profit Theatre versus Oppression, which uses applied theatre to bring about change and positive development. She worked with teenagers at the settlement for two weeks, using theatre to explore the issues that surround being a teenager in the camp (lack of education and lack of parent/community support among them). “It was empowering both for me and the participants as they were able to communicate in a physical and artistic way,” Laetitia said. “During my time in Uganda, I was also able to teach primary school daily mostly in English, Math and French.” The daughter of Hélène Butler, Laetitia is also a contributing writer for VOX, the teen newspaper in Atlanta.

How you can give back: Make a donation to Theater versus Oppression at theatreversusoppression.com. Readers can also donate directly to the settlement camp in Uganda at coburwas.org.

Matthew Tate Dickson, 17 Horizons School

Matt volunteers with Decatur Season of Giving, delivering gifts to low income children and seniors citizens. He’s also involved in the AJC Decatur Book Festival, Decatur Arts Festival, Decatur Season of Giving and the Oakhurst Community Garden Project, working as an assistant to the city’s volunteer coordinator. At Horizons, he worked as a tutor for the lower grades and helped with early reading programs. Along with his parents, Jim and Vandy Vail-Dickson, Matt organized a holiday meal delivery to seniors, too. “It is wonderful to see the reactions from our senior neighbors and great to know how a small effort like that makes such an impact, Matt said. “I don’t have the power or resources to make a huge impact, but if I can help to make a local program successful, or help a younger student learn to read, or put a smile on someone’s face I feel empowered.”

How you can give back: Make a donation to Decatur Season of Giving (decaturga.com) or Oakhurst Community Garden Project (oakhurstgarden.org).

Amanda Harris, 18

The Westminster Schools Amanda Harris, 5th from left, loves to dance, so five years ago she channeled that passion into creating Wear then Share to help underprivileged kids through dance.

The organization has two branches: a Dancewear Initiative, which collects and donates new to gently used dancewear, and a Dance Outreach Program, where Amanda teaches dance classes. To date, she has spent more than 750 hours developing and volunteering through Wear then Share. She also created a permanent dance outreach program at Westminster and heads up the fundraising and support activities for the school’s Spring Dance Concert. The daughter of Amy and Paul Harris, Amanda is also a member of Westminster’s Community Service Club – where she has participated in everything from painting ceiling tiles for The Children’s Hospital to furnishing homes for refugee families – and leader of the grant team of the Student Learning Leadership Council. “I believe as human beings, we have an obligation to take care of one another,” Amanda said. “I experience overwhelming joy when I give of myself to help someone in need.”

How you can give back: Donate to Wear then Share at wearthenshare.com.

8 INtown | January 2012

Ryan Mackenzie Proctor, 17 Holy Spirit Preparatory School

The son of Jeffrey and Vivian Proctor, Ryan has had an interest in Classical antiquity and languages since the sixth grade.

When he was a sophomore, he took that passion and created an after-school program for fifth and sixth graders called the Classics Club. Every week, he teaches 35 students the languages of Latin and Ancient Greek as well as Greco-Roman culture, history and mythology. The teaching experience led him to author and publish an Ancient Greek textbook for younger students called Khairete O Mathetai: An Introduction to Ancient Greek.

Ryan was one of the founding members and the first president of his local Squires of Columbus chapter. In that capacity, he started an annual coat drive for underprivileged Hispanic immigrants, led a group to recycle used hotel soap for people in developing nations, and organized other service projects. He also raised money for tornado relief in Alabama by teaching a summer weeklong crash course in Latin. “When I change how a young person approaches the world for the better, all my work becomes instantly worthwhile,” Ryan said.

How you can give back: Make a donation to Knights of Columbus at kofc.org.

Carly Marie Pope, 17 The Paideia School

Carly held a toiletry drive to benefit the non-profit Stand Up for Kids, a shelter that provides a safe place for homeless teenagers in the Atlanta area. “They told me that all these teens really want is to feel normal and fit in, so providing them with things like shampoo, toothbrushes and deodorant is important,” Carly said.

“I collected enough toiletries to make over 600 kits for the center to distribute, and I’m still receiving donations.” Her efforts were recognized by the Girl Scouts, which gave her the organization’s highest honor, the Gold Award. I’m proud of the response I got from the community and what we managed to achieve together,” she said. “It encourages me to know that people in this city are genuinely kind.” She is the daughter of Bailey and Celia Pope.

How you can give back: Make a donation to Stand Up for Kids at standupforkids.org.

Robert Alexander Moore, 16 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

Robert is the founder and organizer of Kicks for Kids, which organizes Metro Atlanta shoe drives for underprivileged and wounded children. Last year, a drive Robert organized netted more than 500 pairs of shoes for children, teens and adults in war-torn Afghanistan. As an 8th grader, he also collected more than 300 pairs of shoes for the Compass School in Kikuyu, Kenya. Robert’s goal is to conduct a rolling shoe drive that continues through his senior year. He also donates his time and energy to metro homeless organizations St. Francis’ Table and Our Common Ground. He’s also an intern at Be The Match Foundation, where he assembles registry packets for potential bone marrow donors, conduct local, state and national telephone interviews with businesses and individuals to obtain volunteers and donors for the national bone marrow registry. “I am humbled to think that I may have played a part in helping to change the attitudes and opinions of people in other countries towards Americans through a simple act of kindness,” he said of his work with Kicks for Kids. “My innate compassion and desire to help others is a reflection of my gratitude for my many blessings.” He is the son of Johnetta Holcombe.

How you can give back: Visit the Facebook page for Kicks For Kids or call Robert at (678) 490-4830.

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ON PAGE 10 KeepitINtown.com

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January 2012 | IN

Cole and Peter Bryant, 18 The Westminster Schools

Twin brothers Cole and Peter created the Douglas Bryant Jr. Fund that supports Occupational Therapy and Scholarships at the Lionheart School for children with developmental disabilities in the autistic spectrum. To date, they’ve raised nearly $30,000 for the school, with an additional $11,000 that was matched by an anonymous Atlanta foundation. The fund is named after their brother, who has special needs. “When we visited the school last spring and got to see all the equipment that had purchased with the money we raised, it had an impact on both of us.” Peter said. “I was proud of that.”

Cole added: “To me, giving back to the community means striving to be selfless, and using any blessings you have to help others.”

How you can give back: Visit the Lionheart School website at thelionheartschool.com and donate to the Douglas Bryant Jr. Fund.

Kate Athanassiades, 18 The Paideia School

A competitive swimmer, Kate was temporarily sidelined after she was diagnosed with a brain tumor. However, that didn’t stop her from giving back to the community and specifically to CURE Childhood Cancer. This past summer, Kate organized a swim-a-thon at the Venetian Community Pool in Decatur. She was the top fundraiser with $2,700 in donations, but the event raised more than $9,000. She also became a volunteer coach for the Junior Sharks team, has volunteered with the Atlanta Track Club and at her church, Glenn Memorial United Methodist. After surgery, chemotherapy and radiation her cancer is now in remission. “I always think about how many people helped me in my cancer experience, and I want to give back to the community that helped me,” Kate said. “Hopefully in the near future, no one would have to face cancer like I did.” She is the daughter of Beth and Dean Athanassiades. How you can give back: Make a donation to CURE Childhood Cancer at curechildhoodcancer.org or Camp Sunshine at mycampsunshine.com.

Grace Reeder Meade, 18 The Lovett School

Grace is a leader on the Lovett Student Service Board, an elected group of students who plan and organize service events and fundraisers for the entire Upper School. She co-chaired the board’s largest fundraising event last year, Parent’s Night Out, which raised thousands of dollars for nonprofits supported by the student body. Grace, the daughter of Tommy and Cindy Meade, also serves on the Atlanta Mission Junior Board, an organization that aims to reduce homeless in the city.

Through her church, First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, she has gone on mission trips to Mexico, New Orleans, West Virginia, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic.

“Throughout my life, I have been taught the importance of giving back but, through serving others, I have developed a strong passion for service,” Grace said. How you can give back: Make a donation to the Atlanta Mission at atlantamission.org.

Where good kids become great people.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School develops in students a love of learning, respect for self and others, faith in God, and a sense of service to the world community.

- Mission Statement

www.hies.org 404-255-4026

All School Open House:

Saturday, January 28 at 1:00 p.m.

A community of 1,300 students, ages 3-years-old through 12th Grade.

10 INtown | January 2012

KeepitINtown.com

A Short History of Grady High School Editor’s Note: This month’s cover shot was held at Grady High School in Midtown. INtown has worked with a Grady intern and collaborated on articles – we know it’s an Intown institution. We asked our INtown historian to give us a look back at its history to shed more light on its past.

Grady’s namesake, Henry W. Grady (1850-1889), was the editor of The Atlanta Constitution and a proponent of a “New South” in the post-Civil War era. At the school’s cornerstone laying exercises in November, 1924 the attending students wewre all white males from Boys High and Tech High. The spirit of competition and separate school identity prevailed. In 1924-25, Atlanta had five separate high schools – Boys High, Girls High, Tech

High, Commercial High and Booker T. Washington High. Four were segregated by race and gender – Commerical was co-ed for white students. Consolidating Boys, Girls, Tech, and Commercial Highs into one coordinating program at Grady in 1947 was a 23-year controversial issue. Fourteen years later Grady became one of the first

high schools in Georgia to open its doors in 1961 to African-American students. Today, the school is widely regarded as one of the best public high schools in Atlanta and is well known for its communications magnet program.

– Ann Boutwell

artfully uniting extraordinary homes with lives

Our first place team

Hard work and dedication pays off for young gymnasts Atlanta Gymnastics Center was the 1st place team at the recent USA Gymnastics Level IV State Meet. Team members include Cali Bond, Nina Bryan, Sara Eazzetta, Rosie Finglass, Chloe Guzman, Sarah Henn, Raine Julius, Olivia Koval, Park Li, Riley Luckmann, Sydney Mullins, Margaret Rose, Alexandria Sampson, Ally Spivack, Sean Taylor, Julia Verre, Lauryn Walker, Julia Yarbrough, Camilla Yoon and Caroline Yoon. The individuals on the team also took home gold, silver and bronze for their work in vault, beam and bars. For more about Atlanta Gymnastics, visit atlantagymnasticscenter.com.

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January 2012 | IN

Checkmate!

Young chess players profess love of the game

By Ana Laura Araya

patience. As if that was not enough, it also helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

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Carter Peatman, left, won the Georgia Chess Championship

Three young and dedicated chess players, all below the age of 30, shared their stories with INtown.

Richard Francisco, 27, is a doctoral student at the University of Georgia and the current two-time defending Georgia Adult State Chess Champion. Carter Peatman, 15, spends most of his spare time playing chess and recently won first place at the 2011 Georgia Class Championship in Class A. Cole Leingang, 9, received second place in Georgia Chess Association’s Grade Level State Championship and plays chess everyday.

All three learned chess from a family member. Cole learned from his older brother, while Richard and Carter both learned from their fathers. As with many other chess players, they were all below the age of 8 when they began to play.

Richard caught the “chess bug” after seeing classmates playing on the chess team and getting Chessmaster on his Game Boy. Carter learned in kindergarten and his talent was apparent since a very young age – in 2nd grade he won11th place at the Super National Chess Tournament.

“I recently ran cross country and I am planning on participating in track and field in the spring, but chess will always be my

priority,” said Carter, who is now a 9th grade student at Decatur High School.

When asked what makes a good chess player, all of them had different answers.

According to Richard, the most important aspect is to love the game. “A voracious appetite to learn more is the most important criteria to chess achievement,” he stated. “It then becomes a balance between studying published books and games and playing against players near your ability level.”

Carter said it’s important to understand that you’re not always going to win, but you’re always going to learn. Cole said that you have to practice and figure out what your opponent will do next.

Unfortunately, these players have seen a decline in the Atlanta chess scene. “Many strong players in Atlanta have stopped playing, one reason being the rough economy, the emergence of online chess and a popularity in poker, which can be more lucrative,” Richard said.

Both he and Carter have both been playing tournaments at the Atlanta Chess Center in Scottsdale. Unfortunately, this center will close soon and Carter believes that there will be a need for a new center in town.

Through February 4, 2012 February 20 March 3

12 INtown | January 2012

KeepitINtown.com

VOX Populi

Newspaper gives teens an uncensored voice

By Julia Turner In 1989, the Supreme Court ruled that schools could censor student newspapers. This decision led to students’ formation of free speech community newspapers in various cities, including Atlanta.

VOX was established in 1993 by a group of teenagers and adult volunteers in response to the isolation, lack of resources and mediocrity in student newspapers as a result of the ruling. Rachel Alterman Wallack, the executive director of VOX, was a local journalist at the time who volunteered at various youth programs in the city.

“I knew there wasn’t a place for student voices in our community,” Wallack says. “VOX grew out of Atlanta youth’s need for a resource through which they could vocalize their opinions and concerns.”

As executive director, Wallack provides strategic vision for the paper in concert with the teens and the board of directors. She heads up fundraising efforts (VOX is

Incredible Guitar Selection: Alvarez Alhambra Hill Collings Fender G&L Eastman Goodall Lowden Martin National Resophonic Taylor Santa Cruz, Takamine and more…

nonprofit), strategic partnerships, and supports the adult staff – two professional editors, Katie Strangis and Rich Eldridge – who work directly with the students at the VOX offices in Downtown.

Opportunities offered by VOX are available to all teens in the Atlanta area for free. Teens can choose the commitment level at which they’d like to get involved.

The VOX teen staff is composed of about 100 students who choose skill-building activities to participate in throughout the month. These activities range from writing and technology workshops to outreach programs. The staff meets every other Saturday to plan the upcoming issue, assign stories and brainstorm ideas.

The staff office of VOX is set up like a professional newsroom, and teens are excited about what the space and the paper has to offer.

“VOX is beneficial because it enhances your skills, and not just in writing,” says Brianna Curtis, 16, from Booker T. Washington High School.

Brianna works on the newspaper’s website with another student staff member. The students were adamant that VOX’s uncensored nature was a key element in its benefits to students.

“It’s a creative outlet for the new generation,” says Lydia Briggs, 16, from Arabia High School.

If a staff-level commitment is out of a student’s time range, there are opportunities to be contributing writers or simply participating in workshops offered by VOX and its volunteers. VOX will host workshops or programs anywhere they are asked, but also targets outreach to adjudicated youth, refugee and immigrant communities.

VOX actively encourages youth involvement in community service, and not just in its staff members.

According to VOX’s 2010-2011 Impact Evaluation, 74 percent of their readers have decided to do something positive, such as volunteer work, because of something they read in VOX. VOX also hosts a summer learning program called Media Café. The program is a cross between summer camp and class with four beginner-to-intermediate classes in visual storytelling, reporting, interactive media, and literary nonfiction and two advanced courses in literary nonfiction and visual storytelling. Teachers of the classes are community leaders who also have expertise in the subject area. Because VOX strives to maintain a diverse environment, one third of the attendees of Media Café will be on scholarship. More information on the program, the application, and scholarship opportunities are available on VOX’s website, VOXrox.org.

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town 13

January 2012 | IN

Pet Pick Daewoo is a silly medium-sized cutie with satellite ears that alert you to all the various things he is feeling.

They are constantly moving to show curiosity about the world and to express his pleasure at meeting new people of all ages and other animals.

He is a confident pup, and he is hoping you will come fall in love with him right away. Daewoo can be adopted at PAWS Atlanta, 5287 Covington Highway, Decatur, GA 30035. For more about PAWS and its programs, visit pawsatlanta.org.

Pet Briefs Atlanta-based Doggiwater is a 100 percent all-natural vitamin beverage being marketed as an alternative to tap water for your pooch. Consisting of purified water along with fresh squeezed fruit juice, Doggiwater provides vitamin C and antioxidants. The flavors include Strawberry Sit, Raspberry Rollover, and Blueberry Bark. doggiwater.com.

Please send pet news items to collin@atlantaintownpaper.com

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14 INtown | January 2012

KeepitINtown.com

KEEP IT INtown {Kirkwood} Karen Head

feta and mozzarella cheese is fantastic, and for you meat lovers you can always add some prosciutto. Ann’s Snack Bar is the best burger shop in America!

Just check with the Wall Street Journal, CNN, and many other national and international news sources. Get there early if you don’t want to wait (owner Ann Price only serves 7 people at a time), but even if you have to wait, it will be worth it. There’s no website or phone to call, just show up at 1615 Memorial Drive.

{Where to Shop} We asked frequent contributor, foodie, professor and poet Karen Head to share some of the goodness of her neighborhood, Kirkwood.

{Why I Love It}

Moving to Kirkwood was one of the best decisions of my life. The community here is diverse and interactive.

Neighbors know each other. People are always out and about, especially in our parks and in our community garden. We are invested in making the community the kind of place that welcomes and respects everyone. As one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods, we are central to everything the city has to offer.

{Where to Eat}

Le Petit Marché (lepetitmarche.net) is Kirkwood’s answer to an amazing breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The loaded oatmeal will make you weep with joy (that or it is just your body’s way of saying thanks for the great the combination of oatmeal, fruit and praline sauce), and the grits stack, topped with shrimp, bacon, and cheese, is amazing. The staff is friendly and attentive, and this is also a family friendly restaurant. Dulce Vegan (dulcevegan.com) to vegans and other bakery fans. Even without the butter and eggs, these treats are wonderful. Urban Pie (urbanpieatl. com) is local pizza at its best. The signature pie, with roasted garlic, spinach, roasted red peppers, red onions, Gitche Yah Yah

Kirkwood Bark and Lounge (barkandlounge.net) is your one stop shop for all your pets’ needs. They also offer grooming and boarding. Gitche Yah Yah (gitcheyahyah. com) is full of whimsical gifts for your home and is a full-service florist, with original and awe-inspiring designs. You can also pick up your “antique” Kirkwood sign here. The Mission Motif (missionmotif.com) carries gorgeous home furnishings – all from the Mission Arts style. If you want to outfit your home to the Mission period, this is the place to shop. Jazmin Spa (jazminspa.com) is an oasis in the city. They offer complete spa services with one of the friendliest staffs in the business. Augusta Designs (augustadesigns. com) and PB&J Gallery (pbjart.com) are next door to each other and offer custom designed jewelry and artwork.

Dolce Vegan

{What to Do}

The Kirkwood Spring Fling (kirkwoodfling.com) happens mid-May each year. There is an artists’ market, local food trucks, and live music. The Kirkwood Wine Stroll is the best fun on two feet. In September you can visit the local businesses and sample many great wines on a terrific wine stroll – each location also features excellent hors d’oeuvres.

Don’t miss the Kirkwood Car Wash, which transforms into the Kirkwood Lounge for this event. Located 5 miles East of Downtown Atlanta and in between Dekalb Avenue and Memorial Drive. Historic-Kirkwood.com.

Ann’s Snack Bar

The Mission Motif Le Petit Marché

KeepitINtown.com

town 15

January 2012 | IN

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Living by Giving

Serving Atlanta Travelers for 30+ Years

The New Year means new opportunities to start a cycle of good in our community.

We often set resolutions just for ourselves, but this year I challenge you to make a resolution for your entire family: Give back more and enjoy it.

You may be a veteran at volunteering, but how about your family? Since beginning this column and my blog, two questions I frequently get asked are: “How do I get my kids involved?” or “I want to find a volunteer project in the community for my family?”

For a family, it could be as a scary as introducing a new vegetable at the dinner table. But like eating veggies, giving back is a great thing to learn young and ultimately leads to a healthier lifestyle. To help you and your family kick-off 2012 making a difference, here are three websites to have on your radar.

For Kids and Teens: GenerationOn

ARE YOU FACING FORECLOSURE?

You are never too young to start making your mark on the world. This is the core philosophy of GenerationOn, the youth division of Points of Light Institute. This resource has brought the nation’s leading youth service organizations under one umbrella to give kids the opportunity to learn about the issues in their communities and access the tools they need to help.

Simply put, GenerationOn connects kids to causes and projects by engaging them online, in an exciting, kid-friendly way.

(Note: Remember, for our kids, the online community is an important part of their life and it is a great platform for them to find purpose in giving back to help others.) generationon.org

organization committed to engaging young adults in philanthropy. The Foundation is one large giving circle, which means it creates a community where young people can pool together their funds in a collaborative effort to have a bigger impact on causes most important to them. This resource not only educates young adults on best practices of being philanthropic, it also raises awareness for the important issues affecting our world. While mostly focused on twentysomethings, this is an organization that can get high school and college students started. (Note: This is also something that you can do just with your own family. Have your kids pool a portion of their allowance, match that amount, and then decide together who it should help.) onepercentfoundation.org

For Families: Doing Good Together Doing Good Together is a website that I recently came across and immediately was inspired. I stand behind their belief that by spending time with loved ones while also helping the larger world, leads children to become compassionate, aware of social issues, and ultimately develop a lifelong habit of giving. This grassroots organization provides tips, ideas and tools to engage your family in charitable activities that can make a difference in your community.

From the environment to the elderly, they have practical ideas that carry inspirational impact for your family to experience. doinggoodtogether.org.

I am always excited to hear about creative ways people in Atlanta are giving back and helping those causes that matter most to them.

Please send me an email, kate@kateatwood. com if you’d like me to share your story in 2012.

KEEP IT INtown

For Young Adults: One Percent Foundation Choose Local

The One Percent Foundation is a nonprofit

There is light at the end of the tunnel.

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WATCH THE VIDEO

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Buckhead Office-532 East Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA 30305, 404.233.4142. www.harrynorman.com Betsy Franks - Broker.

16 INtown | January 2012

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A Look Back Ann Taylor Boutwell Jan 1, 1902: The Negro Literary and Historical Society commemorated the 39th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. The Ebenezer Baptist Church was the celebration site, located then on the corner of Bell and Gilmer streets. Pastor A.D. Williams, the future grandfather of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., gave the benediction.

Jan 1, 1912: The Capital City Club, founded in 1883, celebrated its 28th annual New Year’s Ball. The festivities were held in its new home located on Harris Street— now, 7 John Portman Boulevard. New York’s Beaux-Arts-trained architect Donn Barber designed the five story site, listed in the National Historic Register in 1977.

Jan.2, 1912: Once called the city’s leanest baby skyscraper, the Hillyer Trust Company opened at 140 Peachtree St. with eight stories. In 1977, Atlanta architect Neil Reed’s 65-year old building received a prestigious landmark designation.

Unfortunately, based on structural analysis, the owners C&S— Citizens and Southern Bank— reduced it to three floors. Future blasting during MARTA’s North/South rail line construction and the Atlanta Carnegie Library demolition were also noted as reasons. In 1980, the structure’s historical designation was officially stripped. In April 1985, C&S donated the property to the Atlanta Historical Society. On Nov. 22, 2011 the old Hillyer became the home of new owner’s Breen & Smith Advertising.

Jan. 8, 1981: Coca-Cola began dismantling of its giant, neon signature sign, located above the Russell Stover Candy Store, in the concrete triangular island in front of the Candler Building across from today’s Margaret Mitchell Square.

Since February 1949, the icon graced the roof top of the old Peck Building also known as the Belle Isle building. A negotiation dealing with Georgia Pacific’s moving its corporate headquarters from Portland to Atlanta included issues dealing with the island, the building, and the sign.

After 23 years—May 6, 2003— a new Coca-Cola was erected on top of the Olympia Building on Peachtree.

Jan. 10, 1976: National Feminist leaders joined 3,000 persons—mostly young people—on a mile-long march through downtown Atlanta in support of the Equal Rights Amendment.

Two feminist writers, Betty Friedan and Kate Millet, addressed a rally in front of the Georgia State Capital.

Jan. 12, 1982: A snow and ice storm hit Atlanta stranding 100,000 motorists.

Jan. 20, 1851: The first marriage recorded in the city of Atlanta by the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church is that of Michael Bloomfield and Elizabeth Malone, performed by Rev. J. F. O’Neill. The couple rests in Oakland Cemetery with daughters Bridget, Anna, Caroline, and Isabelle, who died as children (ages 2 through 8) within ten days of each other in January 1863.

Jan. 23, 1895: At a meeting of the Cotton States and International Exhibition Board, Alexander Smith proposed that streets in the vicinity of Piedmont Park be renamed. His suggestions were that Bleckley Street be changed to Tenth Street; Harrison Avenue and Davis to Eleventh Street; Bowden Street to Twelfth Street; Center Street to Thirteenth, and Wilson Avenue to Fourteenth Street. “The change,” said Smith “would simplify the route to the exposition grounds.” The board agreed, accepted and added that it was doubtful that the Fulton County Commission would reject this progressive idea. At this time these streets were outside the city limits.

Jan. 30, 1915: An unidentified blonde woman wearing a harem hat shocked Atlanta society when she smoked a cigarette in the Piedmont Hotel Café. The Atlanta Journal reported that after she finished her smoke, she flipped the butt into the ashtray, took her escort’s arm and left, not realizing that she has just done what had never been done before.

Have information about Atlanta history to share with Ann Boutwell? Email her at annboutwell@bellsouth.net KeepitINtown.com

Life is a Balancing Act

Put fitness, meditation and personal time on your daily calendar

By Valorie Ness For many of us scheduling time to attend to our personal needs is low on the list of priorities. With everyone living such hectic lives, finding time each day – even just a few minutes – is difficult.

The time is there if you look. I find time everyday to exercise, meditate/process thoughts, and just be.

Some days it seems like I only have nanoseconds for this but knowing I put myself on my priority list makes me feel good and feeling good helps me become a better educator, mother homemaker, spouse and friend.

Here are some of my tried and true ways to find the minutes and nano-seconds in your day.

Wake up 5-7 minutes early each day.

If this is the only time you get to yourself all day please extend it to 15-20 minutes.

This may seem like the last thing you would consider doing to yourself after a 14 or 16 hour day, but try it. First change your thought process. You are not doing this to yourself you are doing this for yourself.

Utilizing these precious few minutes to gather yourself and to work on you will really make a positive impact on your day.

Choose silence when driving. Think of this as time to meditate and be with your thoughts. In Atlanta traffic a 5-mile drive easily turn into 50 minutes with just the wrong conditions or a few raindrops. There is nothing we can do to control traffic, so just embrace the time as time for yourself.

Walk to do errands. This is the perfect time to get in exercise minutes – 5 here and 12 there really add up over the course of a week. Take walking breaks much like co-workers take smoke breaks. Have you ever added up the total time your fellow employee takes to go on smoke breaks? It’s roughly 30-50 minutes. Walk outside or use your building’s stairs or hallways, outside, the stairs, or hallways.

session, take advantage of this precious time.

Use standing in line time and on the phone time wisely. Have you ever seen someone standing in line balancing on one foot or doing single leg squats, calf raises or static stretching? Well, it was probably me. I am always doing one of these spontaneous exercises while otherwise “wasting” time.

Sure I get a few strange looks, but I embrace it and hope that the image of me doing these things sticks with the people staring and will encourage them to try it for their selves.

Make your office work for you. Remove you’re your uncomfortable, ill-fitting office chair and replace it with a kneeling chair or an exercise ball. These exercise chairs will allow you to maintain good posture while at your desk. The ball will work your balance, core muscles, posture, and many other fun exercises as well.

Join an activity-based program with someone. The benefit to joining with a friend is the accountability that it promotes between you and your activity friend. It’s human nature that people are more likely to participate in things when they know others are counting on them. Play activity based games with your children, spouse or friend There is a big push now to get our kids eating healthy and moving. What better opportunity to get yourself going than to get out with your kids.

Meet your friends for something other than dinner and drinks. Why is our culture is so focused on food? It fascinates me that so many of our group functions with family and friends are driven by food and drink.

Why not a bikeride, trail walk, or family day in the park?

Turn off the TV, cell phone, iPad at night and be with yourself or your loved one(s). Take the last few minutes before you drift off to lie quietly and just be with your happy thoughts from the day. Focus on your positive accomplishments. Consider how many opportunities you had to better yourself physically and emotionally. Notice the change in the loved ones around you and how all of your daily duties seemed less dreadful and just maybe a bit more delightful.

Valorie Ness is the owner of Catalyst Fitness in Midtown. catalystfitness.com

While you wait at your child’s extracurricular event take time for yourself. Since most programs do not want parents/guardians around while the kids do their thing anyway, this is the perfect opportunity to do yours. Whether it’s walking, jogging, participating in your own class, or quietly sitting for a meditation

town 17

January 2012 | IN

Health & Wellness Briefs In October, Panera Bread once again invited its customers to join them in the fight against breast cancer by purchasing its signature Pink Ribbon Bagels. More than 41,000 bagels were sold at Panera Bread bakery-cafes throughout North Georgia, with a portion of the proceeds going to Northside Hospital’s Breast Care Program. Panera recently presented a check of $4,102.80 to Northside.

Representatives from Panera Bread presented Northside Hospital with a check for more than $4,100 at the hospital’s Celebration of Lights tree lighting, Dec. 3 at Northside Hospital-Forsyth.

Shown (l-r) are Susan Casella, breast health coordinator, Northside Hospital; Marianne Harris, owner, Hooked On Dough LLC dba Panera Bread; Nancy Pearson; joint venture partner, Panera Bread Company; Stephanie Figueroa, catering sales manager, Hooked On Dough LLC; Strom Mull, marketing, Breaking Bread Franchise dba Panera Bread; Mike Mcmullen, district manager, Panera Bread Company; and Lynn Jackson, administrator, Northside Hospital-Forsyth.

purpose by reinforcing new thoughts, ideas and beliefs that support the person they want to be and the life they want to create. This workshop offers an introduction to conscious creation techniques, including meditation, affirmations, and visualization. The cost is $20. RSVP at purposeandjoy. eventbrite.com.

Register for and participate in four of six upcoming races in 2012, and hit a “Grand Slam” with the City of Decatur’s Active Living Challenge. All you have to do is run or walk in four of the following races or events between January and November, 2012: The Bulldog Run with the Dogs in January, Decatur Education Foundation Tour deCatur in March, DRCC Take Back the Night in April, KP Corporate Run/Walk in September, the Oakhurst Arts Run in October and the Run for Justice in November. New this year is participation in Walk For Lunch counts as one event. After participating, register the four races by Nov. 30 and you will be honored in early 2013, receive a special award, and featured in the Decatur FOCUS. Need someone to train with? Join the group of runners at FleetFeet on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. or Saturday mornings at 8 a.m. For more information contact Cheryl Burnette, (678) 553-6541, cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com or decaturga.com/teamdecatur.

5K Races

The 21st annual Chron’s & Colitis Torch Gala will be held at the InterContinental Buckhead hotel on Jan. 28. Atlanta residents Ann and Jay Davis and their son, Richard, are the 2012 Torch Gala Citizens of the Year. The Davises are devoted fundraisers, volunteers and advocates for CCFA. Table sponsorships are available. Individual reservations begin at $300. There will be a silent auction and raffle. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (404) 9820616 or email asuiter@ccfa.org.

The Run with the Dogs-Frostbite 5K is Jan. 16 at 9 a.m. in Decatur. All proceeds will be used by the Decatur Bulldog Athletic Booster Club to help fund the sports program at Decatur High School and Renfroe Middle School. Registration is $25.

The 5K race will being and end on McDonough Street in front of Decatur High School and will run through City of Decatur residential areas and the business district. More information and registration available at rungeorgia.com/runwiththedogs.html.

Creating a Life of Purpose and Joy workshop will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Smyrna Community Center, 200 Village Green Circle. This workshop will assist participants in creating a life aligned with their personal

The MLK Day 5K is Jan. 16 at 8:30 a.m. The race course will circle Lenox Mall and the Buckhead business district. There will be a post race party that will include music and events centered around the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This is a unique event that allows participants to register their school PTA, Church or other organization to receive proceeds from MLKDAY5K. Registration costs $25 until Jan. 15 and $30 on race day. You can register at, 3400 Around Lenox Rd. NE # 102, or online at active.com. More information is available at mlkday5k.com.

The Atlanta Mission 5K is Jan. 28 in downtown. Money raised will support the Atlanta Mission, which serves over 1,000 homeless men, women and children every single day. The race starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Shepherds Inn. For more information and to register, visit atlantamission.org/race.

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KEEP KIDS ACTIVE

Ways to promote health during winter months

By Stephanie Walsh, M.D. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Winter has arrived and children are often tempted to stay inside in front of the TV or a video game rather than play outside.

Don’t let the cooler weather stop you from staying healthy. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, through its Strong4Life program, aims to help families tackle the issue of childhood obesity in Georgia. Getting more activity is a great way to balance the extra calories consumed this time of year.

Remember that small steps can add up to big changes!

While there’s no harm in relaxing, there are a lot of fun ways you can stay active this winter. Please find some tips below and get creative with coming up with ideas your family willenjoy.

Winter Activity Ideas • Create your own family “boot camp,” combining indoor and outdoor exercises that everyone can do together.

• Set up an obstacle course indoors with everyday household items (for instance, pillows make great obstacles to jump over).

• Set up a scavenger hunt around the house, yard or neighborhood.

• See who can do the most push-ups, jumping jacks, or exercise of your choice during a commercial break (have a ‘counter’ and an ‘exerciser’ and switch each break, make it a friendly competition).

• Bundle up and play outside. Walk the dog, play touch football, Frisbee or kickball.

• If the weather really won’t allow for “play time” outside, have a dance party or play hide-and-go-seek.

• If you’re going to play a video game, choose one that requires physical activity rather than just sitting on the couch.

Stephanie Walsh is Medical Director of Child Wellness at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

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January 2012 | IN

INtown Runaround

Shop Smart

Decatur supermarket tours promote healthy eating

Tim Sullivan

Occupy Tim

The City of Decatur Active Living Department has partnered with Kroger to offer free “Supermarket Tours” led by nutrition graduate students from Georgia

State. The tours were so popular last year, that they’ve been extended into 2012.

The nutritionists will take participants on a “tour” of the Decatur Kroger using a hands-on approach to label reading, healthy meal planning and avoiding the

many marketing traps. Cruise through fresh, frozen and canned food aisles to learn about healthy shopping and eating. Have your nutrition questions answered and learn how to eat healthy.

The one hour tours will be held this the second Saturday of each month beginning Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. at the Kroger located in downtown Decatur. The tours are free, but registration is required as tours are limited to six participants. Register today by emailing cheryl.burnette@decaturga.com or call (678) 553-6541. Be sure to specify your preferred date and time.

For more information, visit www.beactivedecatur.com.

“39 is the new 40.” I heard these words come out of my mouth a couple of weeks ago as I tried to explain how my body feels these days. My New Year’s realization is that 2012 will be the year I turn 40 and I can only blame so much on having two young children. My friend Tony mentioned the other night that, of all of our friends, I have taken the longest to turn 40 and this will be the year that I will put his confusing sentiment to rest.

Don’t let the fresh faced photo next to my byline fool you. Like most columnists I had that taken back in the 1980’s when I was singing backup for Dexy’s Midnight Runners... No, the 2011 me was hobbled by chronic calf injuries which was a bitter pill to swallow whilst chronicling the accomplishments of the incredible amateur athletes I’ve featured in this space. I’m not saying my days of buying green bananas are over, but I can bid a fond farewell to any road race PR’s and my basketball techniques will involve less athleticism and decidedly more cheating.

So back to the calf injuries. As they consistently resurfaced throughout the year I felt like not only was Father Time showing up but he was ticked off and looking for an overdue rent payment. Being that the injury was in both legs foretold a particular doom.

It wasn’t just the calves.

My physical therapist Carl is a bald, goateed, giant of a man who probably should be availing the Atlanta Falcons of his pain-inflicting services but for now he seems to be content with me. According to Carl (who I tend to agree with because I’m afraid not to) the muscle tears in my calves are just a manifestation of a general body malaise, kind of like the “brain cloud” suffered by Tom Hank’s character in the movie Joe versus the Volcano. Like Joe, I prepared myself to be shipped off to a remote island where indigenous people led by a painted up Abe Vigoda would sacrifice me to an active volcano in return for a lifetime supply of orange soda.

Where was I? Oh yeah, Carl has deep-tissue massaged (or “Rolfed” for the initiated) every muscle in my lower body.

I’ve even undergone a couple of sessions of “Dry Needling,” which is a last resort effort to get a tight or aggravated muscle to release and it involves a huge man sticking a needle deep into the offending muscle. It hurts.

Sadly, the Rolfing hurts even more.

According to Carl, it was the tightness and underperforming leg muscles that have led to the calf injuries. The calves were being CONTUINUED ON NEXT PAGE

20 INtown | January 2012

KeepitINtown.com

CONTUINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

asked to do too much when I was running or performing the various boot camp-like exercises I subjected myself to and they’ve staged a revolt I’ve termed “Occupy Tim.” I don’t know exactly what their point is but I’m pretty sure they are right.

My Gluteus muscles have been designated by Carl as the most guilty in the grand landscape of my failing, soon-tobe-40 year old body. They just aren’t holding up their end of the bargain so he has me doing a series of exercises stolen from a Golden Girls episode to wake those butt muscles up. I do them at work. Some people stare.

Unable to run off calories I’ve taken a hard look at my diet. After a particularly gluttonous Thanksgiving weekend I decided to give this gluten-free diet a try.

It must make sense, right! In a nutshell (because nuts are ok) this diet called for eschewing bread, pasta, cereal, beer and crackers. These are perhaps my five favorite items on the menu. I thought if I could really avoid these things for a month, I’d be so wafer thin that Christian Bale would be shadowing my every move to play the guy that got wafer thin on the gluten-free diet in a blockbuster movie coming soon to a theater near you.

I lost about four pounds. Turns out they make all sorts of gluten-free products for folks who actually have a gluten intolerance

IS THE PAIN GONE BUT NOT THE PAIN PILLS? that pretty much fills up the space you left behind by not eating Cheez-its. My wife Kristen has offered that perhaps I should avoid “Nut Thins” and the like and to stop eating deli ham by the fistful. At least I get wiser as I get older. And that’s what I’m looking forward to--enlightenment (and tweed jackets with elbow patches)! At least until dementia sets in.

Happy New Year folks! More amazing amateur athlete stories to come.

Read Gluten-Free 101 on Page 35

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For more from Tim, read his blog at timmydaddy.com.

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Send your suggestions to collin@atlantaintownpaper.com and we’ll get the message to Tim

(Remember that the athlete should be local.)

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S I N C E

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the Studio ARTS & CULTURE

By Taylor Arnold If you’re experiencing a little cabin fever this season, you’re in luck, because Atlanta has some spectacular places to escape the winter doldrums. We’ve got the rundown of the winter’s must see performances and exhibitions, as well as recommendations from four of Atlanta’s top art leaders. Read on for our list of the best things to see and do in Atlanta this season.

Alliance Theatre

God of Carnage is one of the most acclaimed plays of the decade, and this January, audiences in Atlanta can see why this little jewel won the 2009 Tony Awards for Best Play, Best Direction, Best Actress In A Play and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. From the same playwright that brought Art to the stage comes a no-holds-barred new play that begs a universal question – What makes you go

Musical, the show Time Magazine called “the musical of the decade.” (March 13-18). foxtheatre.org.

over the edge? Jan. 11-29. alliancetheatre.org

The Atlanta Ballet

This season, the Atlanta Ballet embarks on one of the most monumental collaborations of its 82-year history. Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin is the premiere story ballet by the legendary choreographer. Co-produced by the Atlanta Ballet and Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, it is the story of a courageous young girl who confronts the trials of coming-of-age.

Feb. 10-19. atlantaballet.com

The Fox Theatre

The Fabulous Fox has a stellar lineup of musicals this year, beginning with the Broadway classic, Annie (Jan. 14 – 22). Next up is Memphis, the winner of four 2010 Tony Awards including Best Musical (Jan. 31 – Feb. 5), followed by Billy Elliot the

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

In partnership with AIA Atlanta and the Young Architects Forum Atlanta, MODA will host Emerging Voices 11. This annual portfolio-based citation features young individuals and firms with distinct “voices” that demonstrate the potential to influence architecture and design within the Atlanta community. Jan. 10-22. museumofdesign.org

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Upcoming highlights at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra include Beethoven’s Emperor (Jan. 5 – 7), instrumental artist Chris Botti (Feb. 10 - 11), and composer, performer and storyteller Marvin Hamlisch

the Studio

(March 16 – 17). atlantasymphony.org

Onstage Atlanta

The Decatur-based company is unveiling two shows, beginning with 40 Weeks, a portrait of what can happen during 40 weeks of pregnancy (Jan. 13 – 22). Next up is The Drowsy Chaperone, an homage to American musicals of the Jazz Age (Feb. 17 March 10). onstageatanta.com

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

This winter, SCAD Atlanta will host Zander Bloom: Place and Space, marking the artist’s first solo show in North America.

This exhibition presents a selection of recent paintings, drawings and photographs in which the artist explores ideas about the creative process, the presentation of art and art making as well as the significance of media and location. February 3 through April 6. scad.edu/exhibitions

Please turn to page 27

ARTS & CULTURE

Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin

Memphis

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January 2012 | IN

Jan. 12-15

The 2012 Atlanta Boast Show is at the Georgia World Congress Center Jan. 1215. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the 2012 show is pulling out all of the stops including the new Indoor Wake Park, daily boating, fishing and sailing courses for both beginners and experienced captains, free fishing for kids, and much more.

Adults, $10 (16 and older), Youth 15 and under, free. $2 online weekday discount.

Advance tickets can be purchased online at AtlantaBoatShow.com.

Jan. 13

Georgia Cancer Specialists will sponsor the 10th annual Totes 2 Tots suitcase

Tripster Events, Fun & Festivals

drive for foster children on Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Totes 2 Tots delivers new or nearly new backpacks and kid-sized suitcases to foster children in Georgia— from infants to teenagers—many of whom must shuffle their belongings from home to home in garbage bags during frequent relocations. To participate, simply drop off a new or nearly new bag at the nearest Georgia Cancer Specialists office.

Visit gacancer.com, Facebook.com/ Totes2Tots or call 1-877-716-2273 for more information and office addresses.

and diverse world; encourages a diverse and inclusive school culture; and engages students, parents and faculty through diversity programming and dialogue. The event is open to the public. Additional event information and tickets ($35) are available at paceacademy.org/diversity.

2012 Inspiration House, a Tour of Homes, lectures, books singings, parties and more. The show itself will take place Feb. 2-4 with two floors of Buckhead’s Cathedral of St. Philip filled with many highly respected exhibitors offering a wide variety of beautiful 18th, 19th and early 20th century antiques. Visitors can discover unique porcelain, furniture, jewelry, rugs, art, silver and much more. For a full schedule of events, visit cathedralantiques.org.

Jan. 28

Jesse Tyler Ferguson of ABC’s hit television show Modern Family will headline Pace Academy’s annual Diversity at the Table event on Saturday, Jan. 28. The event will take place in the Pace Academy Fine Arts Center at 8 p.m. Susan Booth, artistic director of the Alliance Theatre, will host the program, which will include a discussion and a question-and-answer session with Ferguson. Diversity at the Table raises funds for Pace Academy’s Diversity Initiative, which prepares students to succeed in an ever-changing

Ongoing

Jan. 22 to Feb. 12

The Cathedral Antiques Show is back with a line-up of events including the

The Rink at Park Tavern, a seasonal ice skating rink located in the heart of Midtown in Piedmont Park, is open through Feb. 14. The cost is $15 to skate and includes high quality rental skates.

The Rink is available for private skating lessons, parties and even marriage proposals. Park Tavern will also host a number of specialty events throughout the season. Visit parktavern.com for more information or to make reservations.

3) 1)

4)

2)

Outside the Loop

4)

1) Let’s be honest – the best thing about John Berendt’s bestselling novel (and Clint Eastwood’s film adaptation) Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is the Lady Chablis. The Doll, the Grand Empress, Candy Hider extraordinaire, will be back in Savannah, GA on Saturday, Jan. 14, for two shows at Club One. If you’ve never seen The Doll’s flirty, dirty and outrageously funny show, it’s definitely worth packing a small bag for a weekend getaway. You’ll definitely want to buy tickets now because the shows are always sold out. Tickets and info at cluboneonline.com.

2) Two reasons to visit Charleston, SC this month: the annual Charleston Home & Design Show and the Lowcountry Oyster Festival. Thousands of the

24 INtown | January 2012

newest custom home products by local designers will be showcased at the Gaillard Auditorium from Jan. 28-30. charlestonhomeanddesignshow.com. When you’re ready to eat, head to nearby Mount Pleasant for the Lowcountry Oyster Festival on Jan. 29 for live music, children’s activities, oyster shucking and eating contests and much more. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com.

3) There’s nothing like beer to shake up those winter blahs, so head up to Asheville, NC on Jan. 21 for the 5th annual Asheville Winter Warmer Beer Festival at the city civic center. More than 20 local and regional brewers will be on hand, as well as a “special guest” brewer from the west coast. The event always sells out, so get tickets now at ashevillebeerfest.com.

4) Get your move on and join the fun Jan. 20 -31 as the Alabama Dance Festival celebrates being “Fifteen and Fabulous” in Birmingham, AL. Whether you are a beginning dancer, a seasoned professional, or an enthusiastic audience member – there are opportunities for everyone. The festival begins Jan. 21 with Dance Across Birmingham – a day of free dance classes designed for beginners of all ages and a free Birmingham Dance Showcase performance featuring a variety of Birmingham dance companies. There will be special guests, performances and more for all ages, so check out alabamadancecouncil.org for a full schedule.

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Full Radius Dance - The Path Beyond

A guide for arts and cultural entertainment for the entire family.

Visual Arts & Museums Drones: Saltworks Gallery’s latest exhibit features new works by Glexis Novoa that present historical narratives of a dystopic society. Closes January 7. Admission is free. saltworksgallery.com Red Clay Menagerie: This exhibit at The Signature Shop & Gallery features pots and sculptures that incorporate the figure and/or animal imagery using the common material of red clay. Closes January 7. Admission is free. thesignatureshop.com Click/Clank Percussion Platform: This exhibit

by Georgia artist Susan Loftin at Sandler Hudson Gallery is an interactive clay installation that uses sound as an integral component. Closes January 7. Admission is free. sandlerhudson.com Kristin Gorell: Abstractions: The abstract paintings by Kristin Gorell in this exhibit at Poem 88 present her experiences traveling between two very different worlds, her life in Atlanta as an artist with two children and her life traveling with her husband, an Israeli writer and film director.

Closes January 21. Admission is free. poem88.net Once Upon a Time ... Exploring the World of Fairy Tales: Step inside beloved stories from around the globe in this unique and educational exhibit at Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Closes January 22. $12.75. childrensmuseumatlanta.org The Southern Way: Grits, Gals and Glory: This fine art exhibition at Auburn Avenue Research Library features vibrant paintings by Shanequa Gay that celebrate the love, traditions, hospitality and tranquility of Southern women. Opens January 23. Free! afpls.org/aarl Contemporary Artists of Africa: Here and Abroad: The works in this exhibit at Hammonds

House Museum celebrate the beauty and power of contemporary African art and Atlanta’s African community. Closes January 29. $2 to $4. hammondshouse.org Picasso to Warhol: This exhibit at the High Museum of Art presents approximately 100 works of art created by 14 of the most iconic artists from the 20th century, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Marcel Duchamp, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. Closed Monday. $11 to $18. high.org Community Champions Exhibit: In cooperation with The Champion Newspaper, The DeKalb History Center presents this exhibit that recognizes newsmakers who have made positive contributions to DeKalb County during the past 20 years. Open weekdays. Free! dekalbhistory.org

Performing Arts Into the Dark Wood: This performance by Brooks & Company Dance at the Balzer Theater at Herren’s is a dance-theater collaboration following three timeless fairy tales. January 5 through January 7. $12 to $20. brooksandcompanydance.org The New Adventures of the Gingerbread Man: Run, run, run as fast as you can! You don’t want to miss this new romp through three fun-filled fables at the Center for Puppetry Arts. January 5 through January 22. $16.50. puppet.org The Prestige: Journey back in time through music, culture and style as the historic Callanwolde Fine Arts Center comes alive with the sounds of this neo-classical trio. January 8. $12. callanwolde.org The Merchant of Venice: Presented by Atlanta Shakespeare Company at the New American Shakespeare Tavern, this suspenseful comedy with a tragic core has intrigued audiences for

centuries. January 7 through January 27. $15 to $36. shakespearetavern.com God of Carnage: This unforgettable play at the Alliance Theatre follows two pairs of parents as they come together after a violent playground episode between their sons. The cast includes Jasmine Guy, and this production is the first time the play will be performed with an all-African American cast. January 11 through January 29. $20 to $50. alliancetheatre.org Next Fall: The New York Times called this runaway New York hit “the funniest heartbreaker in town.” Beginning off-Broadway in 2009, the play transferred to Broadway in 2010 and now comes to Actor’s Express. Opens January 12. $15 to $32. actors-express.com King Celebration Concert 20th Anniversary: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma graces the stage at this 20th anniversary of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s musical tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., also featuring special guests Morehouse College Glee Club and Spelman College Glee Club. January 12. $55 to $125. atlantasymphony.org Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s Wonderland: Presented by Atlanta Ballet at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, this dynamic re-interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved characters, events and themes is a multi-sensory experience that is sure to surprise and delight.

January 12 through January 14. $20 to $120. atlantaballet.com

Emory Community Choral Festival: Celebrate the rich and varied traditions of choral music as Atlanta Sacred Chorale hosts local guest ensembles at this 23rd annual festival at Emory’s Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts. January 21. Free! atlantasacredchorale.org Extreme Elimination Improv Challenge: Twelve improvisers start, but 11 of them will not make it to the end in this fast-paced, no-holds-barred improv show at Dad’s Garage. Closes January 27. $5 to $20. dadsgarage.com Aus Wien: This concert presented by Georgian Chamber Players at Trinity Presbyterian Church features the works of German composers Schubert and Beethoven. January 29. $10 to $20. gcplayers.net Classical Crossover: This varied program presented by Atlanta Chamber Players at Ahavath Achim Synagogue celebrates two of classical music’s greatest composers, Beethoven and Mozart, and transitions to the lively music of French jazz pianist and composer Claude Bolling.

January 29. $10 to $20. atlantachamberplayers.com Off the EDGE: Curated by choreographer Lauri Stallings, founder of gloATL, these shows at Rialto Center for the Arts feature performances by contemporary dance companies from around the world. January 27 and January 28. $31 to $57. rialtocenter.org

Avenue Q: Returning for an encore run at Horizon Theatre, this musical is smart, hilarious, risqué and full of heart. Opens January 13. $30 to $55. horizontheatre.com Annie: The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world’s best loved musicals, presented by Theater of the Stars at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. January 14 through January 22. $25 to $65. theaterofthestars.com

High Museum - Picasso to Warhol

26 INtown | January 2012

The Path Beyond: Full Radius Dance celebrates its 20th anniversary with this concert of premiere works at 7 Stages Theatre. January 20 and January 21. $12 to $15. fullradiusdance.org

Atlanta Ballet Wonderland

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continued from page 23

Comedy With a Twist

‘

Sketchworks’ shows are fast, furious and funny

Brenda Galina

Executive Director, Museum of Design Atlanta Emerging Voices is always exciting for us because it’s an architectural competition. After the eliminations, we get the best stuff, so it’s always new and fresh. Plus, we never get a preview so it’s always a surprise. Every architect in the city comes because they want to see who wins. It’s very popular in the architectural community and usually draws a grand crowd the first couple of days. I also have season tickets to the Atlanta Opera and the Atlanta Ballet, so I always look forward to that. Those are two of my favorite things in the world. What makes a great city is the arts, and I’m thrilled to be a part of that.

Daniel Summers, Jr.

Marketing Director, Center for Puppetry Arts We’ve got one show I’m incredibly excited about, Ruth and the Green Book. The show is adapted from a children’s book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey. What amazes me about this story is the green book really did exist, and those who knew about it loved it – it’s an unsung story about a tumultuous time in our country.

Another big show I’m waiting on is Ghost Brothers of Darkland County at the Alliance. It starts in April, and it’s been in the works for a few years. It’s written by one of America’s best horror writers, and it’s an ambitious project that deserves to be looked at. The other thing on my radar is the first ever Atlanta Fringe Festival. I’m a big fan of performance art, and I love the fact that there is enough interest in Atlanta that we’re having it.

Russ Belin

Vice President of Broadway in Atlanta I’m really excited about Memphis in February. It focuses on the birth of rock and roll and underground blues singers, which should resonate in Atlanta because we have some of that history too. The other one would be Billy Elliott. The music is by Elton John, and it’s an inspirational story that anyone can relate to. I think audiences will be inspired by this boy who overcomes the odds. People will leave with a sense of believing.

We’ll also check out the Ringling Bros. in February.

Since I came from world of entertainment, this is always a good Atlanta tradition. God of Carnage looks really interesting, too. I’m sure I’ll take my wife to see that play. We’ll also see The Apollo exhibit at Atlanta History Center. It’s an interesting look at how music has influenced this country.

Brett Osborne

Associate Dean of Fine Arts, SCAD Atlanta The SCAD exhibitions department is proud to present Zander Bloom: Place and Space, which focuses on different configurations of lines, shapes and forms that he stages on paper and linen or throughout his studio’s corners and walls, confining his materials, gestures and marks within a single area. At times, each of these works becomes an artistic entity in and of itself. In addition to events hosted

by SCAD, we encourage the students to visit or attend the Cyclorama, the largest painting in the world, the Fox, the Historical Society, the Zoo, the Aquarium, Midtown Festival of the Arts, Atlanta Ballet, and listen to Sidewalk Radio. Inspiration comes from many sources within life.

By Tina Chadwick

If you asked two people who have seen the same Sketchworks’ show on different nights to recount the performance, you might get very different reports. One may describe a funny short film, while the other saw a live character sketch that still brings giggles when recalled.

“Our show changes every three minutes, says Brian Bremer, a managing writer/actor with the theatre. “If we put a sketch up and it doesn’t play well, we’ll adjust it or switch it out completely for the next show. We are constantly refining from performance, to writing to order of the material. It’s a like a comedy world premier every three minutes.”

To construct a show, the managing body looks through pages and pages of material to pick the best set of two to six minute skits.

Skits are written and submitted by a stable of writers who have been through the “comedy-writing wringer” at the theatre. Main stage shows are up for five weekends then the theatre takes a three-week break to prepare for the next performance.

Sketchworks is Atlanta’s longest running, consistently producing sketch comedy theatre. As soon as the words “comedy” and “theatre” appear in the same sentence, people immediately think of improv. What puts it in a different class than improv is that all of the material is written, crafted and honed prior to the show by trained comedy writers.

Sketchworks writers go through intensive instruction from seasoned comedy writers to learn techniques for delivery, scripting, timing, character development and all that goes into a really well crafted sketch.

Actors go through the same rigorous training for stage performing at Sketchworks.

“What we like about scripted stage is that it embodies the full theatre experience and the entire creative package – writer, performer, production,” explains Bremer.

“You also get the full comedic spectrum – farce, situational and character-based – to name a few.”

The New Year brings a special Sketchworks’ show starting early February and running through early March. It’s a “Best of ” series that is only done every other year to give time to gather the funniest sketches into one show. Tickets are $15 online at sketchworkscomedy. com, $17 at the door with group rates for 10 or more at $10 each.

w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

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January 2012 | IN

The Thinking Artist Patrick Dennis

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2 011 • 2 012 S E R I E S

WHERE ATLANTA MEETS THE WORLD

Jan 21

Feb 25

Capitol Steps

McCoy Tyner Quartet

Musical & Political Satire straight from Washington D.C.

with special guest Joe Lovano

Trey McIntyre Project

GSU Opera Theatre & Symphony Orchestra

Mar 17

Dave Douglas

Mar 10

Jan 27 & 28

Off the EDGE

Ballet. Passion. Energy.

The Rialto’s Inaugural Contemporary Performance Event Feb 11

Apr 13-15

Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro Apr 20

Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Jazz Trumpeter with the GSU Jazz Band

Born in India, Raised in Spain: Flamenco’s Journey

Israel Meets Mali

New Voices in Zydeco & Cajun

& Dizzy Gillespie

Apr 21 Grammy-winning Salsa/Latin Jazz The Music of The Idan Raichel & Mar 24 Johnny Mercer & Friends Joe Gransden & Maria Howell Anoushka Shankar Vieux Farka Touré Quartet

with the GSU Jazz Band Feb 18

Yasmin Levy & Omar Faruk Tekbilek

Mediterranean Meditations from Israel & Turkey

Apr 28

Mar 31 Poncho Sanchez & Cedric Watson & Terence Blanchard Bijou Creole and Feufollet A Tribute to Chano Pozo

*Free Parking for Rialto Series shows in the Equitable Deck on Fairlie Street.

28 INtown | January 2012

I am an artist and I’ve been thinking…

Like the ash dangling precipitously from Mame Dennis’ glamorously long cigarette holder, one tap and the holidays are gone.

But not without fanfare, family drama, financial calamity, or fabulous friends famous for their fidelity and flair, not to mention their far flung festivities.

Who doesn’t remember the Christmas Eve scene from Auntie Mame where Beauregard Burnside appears at Mame’s Beekman Place apartment door after “searching every last Dennis in the Manhattan directory with the meter still running” to find his “little gal with the big heart?” Rosiland Russell’s expression was the classic cap on the spirit of the holidays.

With a heartfelt hug for Patrick, Nora, Ito and Agnes, she’s off and running to the banquet table of life with a sprig of hope pinned to her hat.

Some things have not changed since 1955. Just like the life of the infamous character Mame, the holidays inevitably fill us with uncertainty, hope and the occasional hangover which is worth every minute because we lived life fully. It’s no wonder we toast each other with a cup of cheer every year; we need the fortification even if it’s just to take the chill off.

Artists almost never give up hope and our glass is almost always half full even though that’s partially due to the fact that we just like to drink. Like Mame, we might be dramatically inconsolable when things go terribly wrong but deep down we know that around the corner there just might be a Beauregard Burnside looking for us because they saw our work at a show, a fundraiser, a festival or on somebody’s wall. So we continue to create with hope, knowing we are fully embracing the possibility of starvation or worse, being under-appreciated. Yet we are certain that we are artists for a reason: to present the unsuspecting public with things they have never seen before, and that can make it all worthwhile.

At the annual Telephone Factory Art Show and Sale last month, I saw artists both new and experienced who had some of the freshest concepts and innovative ideas I’ve ever seen. The show was well planned and full of surprises, thanks to a thoughtful Sarah Rosenberg. The enthusiasm of Jennie Juechter and Alexander Wright of Urban Attic (urbanaticatl.com) was worthy of Mame praise. They showed me graphic

transfers on wood panels with layers of paint and images that I’ve never seen combined.

There were so many great and colorful art shows and events in December, I think I fell in love about a hundred times. Kim Chesney and Debi Lamb’s powerful skills put together a night of pure imagination with “Hope for the Holidays” at The Art House (thearthouseatlanta.com), complete with a fantastic tent, music, mime and local art covering every square inch. At King Plow, the Georgia Lawyers for the Arts (.glarts.org) held their annual fundraiser in the great room with over 40 participating artists. In addition to their daily business of supporting the arts, they even presented awards to artist Marc Villanueva and past supporters for their contributions. The love of art overflows there.

Some artists live by inspiration from the masters or the generosity of their supporters. Me? I hear Mame’s words in my head like the Pied Piper when she says to her young nephew and my namesake Patrick, “Ah, my little love, I’ll show you things you never dreamed existed!”

That’s enough to keep me interested in grabbing a seat at the banquet.

Take a page from the story of Mame and let your imagination be your guide in 2012.

I guarantee you’ll find that hope and art is a great combination.

January 7: “Art Ancient and Modern” at Thomas Dean Fine Art. Paintings by eight selected artists, photography, drawings and watercolors from 1750 to 2012. thomasdeans.com January 8: “Grainger McKoy” at the High Museum. More than 30 sculptures and drawings from the master of wildlife art. high.org January 21: “Westside Art Walk” at Atlanta’s Westside Arts District. Brave the chill to visit galleries from Emily Amy, Kiang, Sandler Hudson and many more. wadatlanta.org February 10: “The Glass Ceiling Shattered” at Alan Avery Art Company.

Celebrating 30 years of great American Women Artists (including one of my all time faves, Louise Nevelson). alanaveryartcompany.com Patrick Dennis is an artist, gallery owner and President of the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces. He lives in Atlanta. Email: Patrick@affps.com. w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

pick

Chicken Glam Pose, strut, pout ... lay an egg

By Pamela Berger sweetpeachblog.com Clay Walker has a hobby. It began after he and his wife acquired some chickens in the summer of 2010.

The chickens quickly grabbed at their heartstrings and much time was taken to ensure their happiness and well being.

Clay, who resides in Atlanta, was struck by the beauty of the birds and decided to take some photographs to capture their individuality. He’s done some amazing work, especially with Cosmo.

According to Clay, she is the only bird that doesn’t like to be picked up and prefers, like Garbo, to be left alone.

When they were about six weeks old, there was an unfortunate incident involving a raccoon. Needless to say, only three of the chicks survived, which motivated

Clay to build a ‘super-coop’ around the smaller coop to ensure their protection. Then they got more birds...

To create the glamour shots, Clay explains, “I basically placed the chickens on a branch with a white background behind them. I didn’t use anything other than ambient light but it was overcast and the lighting conditions were quite good. I probably took about 15 shots of each bird. I was really looking for a ‘pose’ that was somewhat regal that showed the seriousness that their faces can possess.”

Even the neighbor’s chickens have gotten involved, including Red who played it very cool for the camera.

Clay has a soft spot for Buffie, who survived the first raccoon attack and as Clay states, “It seemed a miracle that she pulled through.” She not only made it, she’s thriving as Buffie is now the biggest bird in the coop as well as the alpha. Clay explains, “She really wants to let you know she’s laid an egg by trumpeting her song for about fifteen minutes.”

Blue, a Blue Andalusian. is a bit of a waddler and needs help getting in the coop each night. Clay loves her sweet nature, saying “She is probably the closest to a pet bird as she will just sit in your lap without wanting to run off. Her photo seems to make her look quite demure which I do think is a good look for her.”

Clay’s chickens provide endless inspiration. His latest artistic venture delves into pop culture. Blue proved the perfect model for this enhanced shot called “Marilyn Blue” as her white plumage mimicked the iconic white dress of Marilyn Monroe.

Blue

Cosmo

To see all of Clay’s wonderful images, go to chickenglamourshots.com.

Red

Buffie

KEEP IT INtown Choose Local • Shop Local

IN 2012! keepitintown.com

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I am a true champion of keeping everything intown. Except mosquitos, I would prefer to keep them outside the perimeter.

- Mark Cohen, Professional Creative Person, Wit

Our local businesses make intown Atlanta a vibrant, distinctive, happy place to live. Our family loves ‘keeping it intown’ and we shop, eat, work, play and live local as much as we can.

- Claudia Brooks D’Avanzo Morningside and VirginiaHighland resident since 1988

Hear what more people have to say. Watch the videos. w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

Buying from locally owned businesses keeps money circulating closer to the community. The more local money that is spent locally creates more local jobs, local entrepreneurial businesses, and our community (schools, property values etc) prospers.

- Rebecca Hadj Taieb The Little Wine Shop

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town 29

January 2012 | IN

IN Business RETAIL | MONEY & FINANCE | DEVELOPMENT

Business & Retail Briefs The Decatur Tourism Bureau recently hired Sherry Jackman as the Visitors Center Manager. Sherry is a Decatur resident who has been in the travel and tourism business for the past 20 years. As Visitors Center Manager, Sherry is busy establishing the Visitors Center and building a team of volunteers to help in a variety of positions.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Sherry at (678) 615-0915 or sherry.jackman@decaturga.com. The Visitors Center will open in early 2012. decaturgatourism.com The Galloway School’s board of trustees has approved the appointment of Suzanna Jemsby as its next head of school.

With a 17-year career in education, Jemsby is currently Executive Director of the Center for the Advancement and Study of International Education, a non-profit organization that promotes global education through cutting-edge professional development for over 4,000 educators each year. Jemsby succeeds Dr. Beth Farokhi, who has served as Galloway’s interim head of school since the summer of 2010. Farokhi will continue

as head of school through the 2011-2012 academic year. gallowayschool.org.

Toddler Time each Tuesday and Thursday. skyzoneatlanta.com

Atlanta-based We&Co launched a beta website to make it even easier for people to thank their favorite waiter, barista, or really anyone who provides outstanding service. In late July, We&Co soft-launched its location-based iPhone app, “Thankee,” and in the company’s first three months, patrons used this app to thank service professionals in more than 50 countries. weand.co

Welcomemat Services, a loyalty marketing firm that specializes in bringing new residents together with local businesses by sending out a monthly mailing to specifically-targeted new movers, recently moved its headquarters from Charlotte to Tower Place in Atlanta. With 12 territories operating across the South, the company plans to add more than 200 franchise operations in throughout the United States over 200 the next five years. welcomematfranchising.com.

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park has opened at 560 Old Peachtree Road, offering a wide variety of physical activities atop its giant trampolines. Sky Zone is suitable for just about any age, shape or size. The Open Jump experience is for individuals and groups who want to zip across the court, take a gigantic leap vertically, or bounce off the walls. 3-D Dodgeball takes the traditional game and adds a new twist.

There is also SkyRobics fitness classes, which combine a low impact yet highly effective, 3-dimensional cardio and strengthtraining program. Parents can bring younger children to SkyRobics 4Kids or

Atlantic Station has opened a full-service concierge in a location adjacent to the community’s Central Park as a new amenity to guests. Whether seeking advice or enjoying the center’s shops, restaurants and entertainment activities, guests will have a central authority for requests, recommendations and a variety of services. facebook.com/AtlanticStation Hyatt Regency Atlanta was recently honored with an Atlanta Downtown Design Excellence Award from Central Atlanta Progress (CAP). The awards program, now in its sixth year, recognizes newly created or renovated downtown spaces that demonstrate distinction in design. The $65 reinvestment has transformed nearly every aspect of the

property. The hotel tapped renowned design firm tvsdesign for the project. hyatt.com/gallery/atlrarenovation Meg Harrington and Ann Huff, owners of the 5-year-old Buckhead fine art gallery, Huff Harrington Fine Art, are expanding operations with the opening of a new retail venture, Huff Harrington Home. The store occupies a 4,000-plus-square-foot space at 102 West Paces Ferry Road. Merchandise includes all the things that Huff and Harrington are passionate about: new, antique and vintage furniture, lamps, rugs, accessories, gifts and hard-to-find items from France. huffharrington.com Atlanta-based Harless & Associates, CPAs and Peachtree Capital Corporation, have recently opened a second location in the Palm Beaches with offices in downtown West Palm Beach. Harless & Associates is a full-service tax accounting firm founded in 1987 specializing in personalized tax services for corporations, executives, small business owners and other professionals.

HarlessTax.com.

Making Sense of Social Brigette Flood

Social By the Numbers You know the saying that goes, “a good idea is worth stealing?” I’m a big fan and practitioner of it. Really we all are. If you think about it, stealing is what social media is all about. It’s not stealing anymore, it’s sharing instead. See a funny video, share it.

Insightful tweet, retweet it. Cool product, Google+ it. Funny post, like & comment on it. All those little stolen pieces become part of your social personality.

In social media practice, the sharing gets taken at least one step further. There are those who manage the communities and there are those who help the managers manage their communities. And both the individuals who use the tools and the companies who create them can access a lot of interesting data.

30 INtown | January 2012

In the wild west of today’s socialsphere, the data is extremely helpful. It benefits each of person, each organization and the still-emerging social media discipline distill all this sharing that everyone is so busy doing. Plan, implement, measure, tweak, rinse, repeat.

Not surprisingly, the most interesting stats come from the organizations having access to all that data. Analysts and data wonks unite (quick shout out to James, one of the best in the biz) At the end of 2011, Ad Age compiled a list of them. Here just a few. Stolen, I mean shared, for your pleasure (sources in parenthesis):

• There are now more than 800

million active Facebook users, with more than 200 million added in 2011. (Social Media Examiner)

• Nearly every large charity and

university in America is on Facebook.

Less than 60 percent of the Fortune 500 are. (Grow)

• The average Facebook user has 130 friends and is connected to 80 pages, events and groups. (Social Media Examiner)

• Forty-three percent of all online

consumers are social media fans or followers. (HubSpot)

• Netflix’s price hike caused 805,000 paid subscribers to jump ship in the most-recent quarter. (Mashable)

North America alone. (All Twitter)

• What makes people retweet?

92 percent interesting content. 84 percent humor. 66 percent personal connection. 21 percent celebrity status. 32 percent offered incentive (tangible or virtual). 26 percent “Please RT!” (WhiteFireSEO) • Beyonce’s pregnancy news at MTV’s Video Music Awards birthed a new Twitter record of 8,868 Tweets per second. (TechCrunch) Happy New Year all. Here’s to sharing much in 2012. You can find (and RT!) me @ brigflood and at makingsenseofsocial.com.

• LinkedIn has 64 million users in w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

Music for the People Georgia Tech team creates bestselling apps

Major Renovation Underway!

Parag Chordia

Creative Lof t Office Space 1440 Dutch Valley Place / Atlanta, GA / 30324

we welcome our new tenants:

By Julia Turner “If I had told someone five years ago I wanted to start and work for a company that created artificial intelligence for music-based applications, they would have laughed,” says Parag Chordia, Chief Technical Officer of khu.sh, a company that has changed AI in music to anything but a laughing matter.

Chordia is also a professor at Georgia Tech, director of the music intelligence lab, part of the Center for Music Technology. It was his research with graduate student Xiang Cao that led to the development of LaDiDa, a reverse karaoke application.

LaDiDa allows the user to record his singing, choose a musical type, and then play the singing back with an automated melody added. The app also has pitch correction, so it makes you sound good even when you sing off-key.

LaDiDa is now one of the Top 10 most downloaded music apps.

To create the app, Chordia and Cao used a generative modeling system based on statistics and a computer that had listened to a lot of popular music and recorded the statistical data from the chord progressions so that it “knows” what sounds good.

After completing the research, Chordia and Cao realized they had a product with commercial potential, but it was Chordia’s wife, Prerna Gupta, now Chief Executive Officer of Khu.sh, who really pushed for the creation of the company.

Tech’s Venture lab and Shotput Ventures, an angel-investing company based in Atlanta, provided the start-up funds for Khu.sh in May 2009 and by September 2009, LaDiDa launched.

Having a top ten app didn’t stop khu.sh’s creative impetus. Members of khu.sh realized that while LaDiDa lowered users inhibition to sing, they were still feeling some reluctance to sing into their smartphones, and simply talking doesn’t achieve the same effects. This realization led to the development of Songify.

Last summer, the company released the Songify app in partnership with the Gregory Brothers. Songify turns speech into music – much like the popular “auto-tune the news” videos you see on YouTube – and the app was wildly successful, becoming the number one downloaded app in the world for a time.

Recently, khu.sh has released a third app, Talkappella, which is a harmonization app that the four parts of the harmony from just the user’s voice. The company expects to be releasing two more apps soon, one in December, and the next early next year. You can find more information on the company and its apps at http://khu.sh/

Join Atlanta INtown’s Social Network.

a producer of PDF software

Thank you to Joel & Granot Real Estate; Raulet Property Partners; and Renaissance Consulting Group for your assistance in these transactions.

For Leasing inFormation ContaCt: Kyle Jenks - 404.239.9828 or Doug James - 404.372.1280

www.ParksidePartners.com w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

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January 2012 | IN

Go Green

YOUR GUIDE FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY LIFESTYLE

Buckhead volunteer work to reveal meadow, trails

By Sally Sears A dozen adults wielding blue-handled swing blades caught drivers’ eyes on Lindbergh Drive on a recent Sunday morning.

Honks and cheers joined the crackle of yanking honeysuckle vines and kudzu as volunteers cleared a new hiking trail along a meadow at the foot of Midtown Atlanta.

A whining chain saw bit into privet and mimosa. And a special, hush- hush secret weapon in a Pepsi bottle should keep them

VOLUNTEER RICK NELSON WITH SEEDS MADE INTO ART ON HIS JACKET

Eco-Briefs EarthShare of Georgia (ESGA) is partnering with the largest independent certified public accounting and business advisory firm based in Georgia, Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, in their employee giving campaign. EarthShare also welcomes three new environmental member groups in 2012, Flint Riverkeeper, Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites, and Savannah Riverkeeper. Beyond meeting the strict requirements for EarthShare member group participation, the three new nonprofit environmental organizations were selected based on their environmental accomplishments, statewide presence and their ability to help open new EarthShare of Georgia employee giving campaigns outside of the Atlanta area. earthsharega.org The newly expanded Construction Resources Slab Gallery is open 224 Rio

32 INtown | January 2012

from coming back.

I dropped an armload of invasive mimosa branches long enough to show a neighbor and her two dogs where the trail head leads to the creek and a good half mile loop of gentle walking. She couldn’t believe it. Neither could the Green Team from the Georgia Conservancy.

“I can’t believe this is right here, in plain sight, and I’ve never noticed it,” said from Leah Barnett, the conservancy’s community outreach coordinator. That admission cost her a nickel. I’m collecting from everybody who says they had no idea Atlanta had so much gorgeous creek land in hiding.

The neighborhood and the South Fork Conservancy won a grant from Atlanta’sa Sustainability Office to reveal the beauty hidden by decades of inattention to this parcel of land. The Love Your Block folks liked our idea of sprucing up the view from Lindbergh Drive, near the I-85 overpass, and encouraging people to walk along the public land through the meadow.

First we parked on the street at Armand Road, and walked across the bridge over the North Fork of Peachtree Creek. The creek bubbled clear that morning, and we all took in the view of the Midtown skyline.

It shone like Oz. Below us, a line of green marked the creek bank. The open meadow is full of native grasses. It’s easy to ignore the sound of the I-85 traffic, especially when we dropped down into the meadow itself.

We tugged mulch out of a giant pile,

Circle in Decatur featuring 20,000 square feet of products. This is an easy onestop shop for remodelers, decorators, homeowners and builders looking for building materials, including green products. constructionresourcesusa.com Denise Quarles has been hired to lead the City of Atlanta’s sustainability efforts.

Quarles previously served for three years as vice president of environmental affairs and director of business development in the energy division of Southwire, a Georgiabased manufacturer of electric wiring and cabling. As the new director of the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, Quarles will be tasked with working collaboratively

crafted trails and created a 25 foot circle at the head of a circular route around the meadow and creek. One day, a bench and signs here will help direct walkers along the trail, and show how this creek meets the South Fork and forms Peachtree Creek itself, Atlanta’s most important waterway.

The Lindridge Martin Manor Neighborhood Association says more public green space is their first priority.

Environmental Chairman Rich Sussman pulls volunteers from three nearby neighborhoods to help. This day, though, he followed the chain saw. South Fork Conservancy Chairman Bob Kerr aimed at privet in the trail. One was chewed to a

point by beavers from the creek. Carefully, Bob sliced. Then Rich Sussman took the Pepsi bottle and gently daubed its spongetopped contents on the stump. It won’t unduly harm creeks, but it’s potent against invasives. I drove all over Atlanta looking for that particular 20 ounce plastic bottle. Not in a million years would I put poison in a Coke bottle.

Who owns it? The City of Atlanta and Georgia DOT. Officials with both are intrigued by the idea of trails connecting green space along the creeks, and working hard on the details.

More information at the website southforkconservancy.org.

with Atlanta City Council members for additional budgetary support and leading cross-departmental strategy efforts for Atlanta to become a Top 10 sustainable city. Prior to Southwire, Quarles was with DaimlerChrysler for 12 years, where she gained extensive experience in business and operations management. atlantaga.gov MARTA has completed installation of a solar canopy at the Laredo Bus Facility.

This federally funded project, finished on time and within budget, is the largest solar canopy in Georgia and the second largest structure of its kind at a United States transit system. The solar panels generate enough electricity to offset a significant portion of this facility’s annual electricity consumption and have the same environmental benefit as planting more than 285 acres of trees a year.

A giant cheeseburger – with a big bite missing – imagined by a group of second

and third-grade art students from the Atlanta Speech School and built by a team of Heery International architects was picked as the “Jurors’ Favorite” in the 13th annual Canstruction Competition. The annual design-build competition is sponsored by the Atlanta Chapter of the American Institute of Architects to help replenish the stores of Atlanta Community Food Bank. atlspsch.org w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

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January 2012 | IN

Recycling in the O4W

New recycling center aims to ease landfill issues

By Julia Turner Currently, Georgia law does not ban landfill disposal of e-waste – computers, printers, televisions, etc. – coming from residential sources. although some landfills will not accept them. The improper disposal of these items, which contains such toxic substances as lead and mercury, may have serious implications on public health and the health of our environment.

The Keep Atlanta Beautiful Community Recycling Center (KCRC) has opened in the Old Fourth Ward community to help combat the problem. Frequent recyclers might remember that KAB was originally collecting e-waste at the Grady High School parking on Saturdays. The popularity of the event, meant the program would have to find a space of its own.

Luckily, around this time the recycling manager from Atlanta Public Schools joined the KAB advisory board for the program and was able to find a new location to set up the center: Walden Middle School.

The school, located at 320 Irwin Street, is no longer in use, which has made all the difference on drop-off days, especially now that the center accepts a wider range of items for recycling.

The Community Recycling Center now accepts paper and post consumer polystyrene, commonly known as

Styrofoam, at its new location in the O4W. Global Document Shredding is handling the paper shredding, Dart Container Corporation collects the Styrofoam dropoffs and Creative Recycling Solutions, an EPA certified recycling company which collects the e-waste, recycles nearly 10,000 pounds per month of obsolete computers, monitors, handheld devices, TVs and more at the monthly event.

This month, the center will be collecting old phonebooks as part of AT&T’s Project ReDirectory and is now accepting old paint, which will be reconstituted and used by KAB to use for graffiti clean-up and cover at local parks.

Collection days are now every second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information can be found at keepatlantabeautiful.org.

KEEP IT INtown Choose Local • Shop Local

IN 2012!

Best place to hear music: Grocery on Home Best ice cream: Morelli’s Best place to go with your dog: Park Grounds in Reynoldstown (coffee, food, ice cream, and a dog run!)

Best stuff to buy: my mom’s ReFuse bags that she makes from stuff saved from the landfills (Anthropocene.etsy.com and local art stores and festivals) Best food: Parish on Highland - submitted by Viva Vadim, 8 years old

keepitintown.com

Hear what more people have to say. Watch the videos.

34 INtown | January 2012

Scan the QR code to watch the video

w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

News you can Eat EATING OUT | EATING IN | FOOD NEWS | WINE

Gluten-Free 101

By necessity or by choice, many are cutting gluten from their diet

By Gigi Stewart

allergy. These individuals, along with the gluten sensitive, do not experience damage to their small intestine; however, they must also adhere to a strict gluten free diet.

For most (like me!), removing gluten from the diet is a medical necessity; however that’s not always the case. Some choose to omit gluten from their diet for other reasons. Some reasons may be...

• A spouse or child who must live gluten-

A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start. For some, that means considering a gluten-free lifestyle. You may have even asked yourself if you need to go gluten-free.

To help answer that question, here’s a little Gluten-Free 101 for the uninitiated.

Let’s begin by understanding what gluten is. This is the protein portion of certain grains like wheat, barley and rye. In baking, gluten provides elasticity needed to lend structure and texture to foods like breads and cakes. Without it, baked goods fall flat and lack tenderness. Pastries and pastas are obvious sources of gluten, but gluten can show up in unsuspecting places from canned soups to medicines to soy sauce. Because gluten shows up in countless processed foods, following a gluten-free diet can be a challenge. So, why would anyone want to go gluten-free?

Truth is, most do not, but for some a gluten-free lifestyle is necessary. Individuals diagnosed with Celiac disease (CD) must adhere to a gluten-free diet for life. It is their only treatment option. Celiac disease is a genetic disorder of the immune system affecting the small intestine lining. When individuals with CD consume gluten, their body responds by attacking the small fingerlike projections inside the small intestine.

This causes poor nutrient absorption and a variety of other health issues. More than 300 symptoms are associated with CD, making it difficult to diagnose. In fact, some individuals endure years of misdiagnosis before discovering the reason for their poor health is gluten.

More than twp million people in the US have CD and even more suffer from NonCeliac Gluten Sensitivity. Others in need of avoiding gluten are those with a wheat w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

free. Family support is important when someone is diagnosed with CD or Gluten Sensitivity.

• Other food allergies or intolerance.

Wheat is one of the top eight food allergens in the US, 1 in 133 individuals have CD, and over half of the US population is suspected of being gluten sensitive.

• Digestive issues like stomach upset, gas and bloating. Gluten is difficult to digest.

• Diabetes. Gluten elevates blood sugar levels.

• Health issues that cause an inflammatory response. Gluten causes inflammation.

• A desire to lose weight. Gluten-filled wheat flour that is refined has virtually no nutritional value and adds “empty” calories to the diet.

Whatever the reason, if you’re considering going gluten-free in 2012, here’s a brief overview of my “7 Steps to Success” to get you off to a great start!

1. Rock a positive attitude: A glutenfree diet does not mean restriction; it means liberation! Liberate your health to feel better, have more energy, and be the best you can be.

2. Purge your pantry: It’s a great time to do this anyway, right after the holidays. Out with the old (gluten) and in with the new, healthier (gluten-free) foods.

6. Get that apron on: If you don’t know how to cook, now is the time to learn. This is your most valuable tool when it comes to living gluten-free successfully.

7. Treat yourself to dinner out: Learn to

dine out gluten-free. It can be tricky at first, but by asking the right questions, you’ll soon order like a pro.

Turn to Page 37 FOR RECIPES

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3. Learn how to read labels: Hidden gluten lurks in places you’d never suspect, sometimes using an alias.

4. Grocery shop gluten-free: Don’t fall into the trap of buying pre-packaged, overpriced gluten-free foods that aren’t very tasty. Discover the best products for your new gluten-free life.

5. Expand your palate: Try some foods you haven’t tried before like quinoa, teff, or amaranth. You’ll find new, exciting, glutenfree foods at every turn!

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January 2012 | IN

Quick Bites News & Happenings

contemporary Mexican menu infused with the flavors of Latin America. fifthgroup.com Atlanta icon Thumbs Up Diner is now selling franchise opportunities. For more information visit thumbsupdiner.com.

Chuy’s, an Austin-based Tex-Mex restaurant, has opened it’s first locationat 118 Perimeter Center West. chuys.com Atlanta-based Uncle Maddio’s Pizza plans to open more than 70 franchises throughout Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky by the end of 2012. The original flagship Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint is located near Emory University. unclemaddios.com.

Barcelona is now open at 240 N. Highland Ave. in Inman Park offering an array of Spanish small and large plates. barcelonawinebar.com The ONE Group has opened STK in the 12th & Midtown development blending the concepts of steakhouse and chic lounge. For more information, visit togrp.com The Fifth Group has opened a new Mexican restaurant, Alma Cocina, at Downtown’s One Ninety One Peachtree Tower. Executive Chef Chad Clevenger has created a

36 INtown | January 2012

Willy’s Mexicana Grill has opened its 21st location at Georgia State University, 100 Piedmont Ave. willys.com Piece of Cake has opened a new store in Vinings at 3220 Cobb Parkway, Suite 101.

Since 1985, Piece of Cake has been baking gourmet cakes from scratch, wrapping and delivering them to customers’ doors.

In addition to the new Vinings location, Piece of Cake also has stores in Buckhead, Roswell, Decatur, and Dunwoody. pieceofcakeinc.com

Ford Fry’s new restaurant, The Optimist, is expected to open this spring in West Midtown at 914 Howell Mill Road. The menu will focus on sustainable seafood prepared in a wood-burning oven. Adjacent to the new restaurant, Fry will also be opening Oyster Bar at The Optimist, a more casual “fish camp” style venue, featuring an outdoor patio, live music and an oyster bar. The name comes from Fry’s sailing enthusiast father. In sailing terms, an optimist is a small, single-handed sailing dinghy intended for use by children.

Atlanta-based SoRen Tea has launched collection of gourmet loose teas. The product line will be available online at sorentea.com as well as at fine retailers, hotels and spas in Atlanta.

RA Sushi is continuing to host their monthly Sake and Sushi Socials in January and February. Attendees will be able to roll up their sleeves and learn about sushi rolling and sake pairing basics while treating themselves to a selection of fresh sushi, appetizers and fine sakes. The cost to participate in a Sake and Sushi Social is $35 per person or $60 per couple and includes a sushi rolling lesson and a four-course sampling from RA Sushi’s menu paired with the perfect sake. Space is limited, and guests are encouraged to reserve a spot as soon as possible by calling 404-267-0114. More information is available at RAsushi.com.

Chef Asha Gomez, creator of the popular Spice Route Supper Club underground dinner series, wil open Cardamom Hill this month at 1700 Northside Drive in West Midtown. The restaurant will be open six days a week (closed Sundays) and feature authentic, family-style Kerala dishes. For more information visit cardamomhill.net.

HomeGrown Restaurants Concepts presented Fire Stations 19 and 10 with checks totaling $7,500 to help with restoration. The money came from Breakfast with Santa events at Doc Chey’s and Osteria 832 in December.

w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

CONTUINUED FROM PAGE 35

Low-Fat Gluten-Free Decadent Chocolate Cupcakes Ingredients: 1/2 cup white rice flour* 1/4 cup sorghum flour* 1/4 cup potato starch* 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1 Tablespoon oil 1/4 cup plain low fat yogurt (substitute coconut milk yogurt for dairy-free) 2 eggs, lightly beaten (substitute equal amount of prepared egg replacer for egg-free) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk (for dairy-free substitute 1/2 Tablespoon white vinegar and enough rice milk to equal 1/2 cup liquid)

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pizza

*available in special diets section of most grocery stores under brand name “Bob’s Red Mill”

DELIVERY & CARRY-OUT

Directions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350F and line a 12-section cupcake pan with paper liners.

2. Combine flours and starch, cocoa, soda, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl; whisk to blend.

3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients; stir to blend.

4. Add the liquid mixture to dry ingredients, stirring just until combined and dry ingredients are moist.

5. Divide batter evenly between sections of prepared pan. Bake 15-17 minutes until tops spring back lightly when touched or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Watch the cupcakes so they do not over bake.

Cool completely before frosting.

Creamy Butter Cream Frosting Ingredients: 4 Tablespoons butter, softened (for dairy-free use Earth Balance buttery spread) 2 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2-3 Tablespoons milk (if dairy-free, use rice milk)

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“Southerncubanlowcountry caribbeanamericano-cuisine” (that’s a mouth-full.)

So is our Low Country Seafood Saute,Catfish & Grits, Paella, Crab Cakes, Fried Green Tomatoes, Southern Fried Chicken, Louisiana Fish Tacos, Southwestern Chicken, and More!

For chocolate frosting, add 2 – 4 Tablespoons cocoa powder (2 for lighter chocolate, 4 for very chocolate!) when you add the powdered sugar.

Directions: 1. Place butter in a mixing bowl. Add 1 cup confectioner’s sugar (and cocoa, if using); stir (or mix with electric mixer) until smooth.

2. Add remaining sugar and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

3. Add milk, a little at a time, while mixing, until frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Frost cupcakes and store leftovers in refrigerator.

To learn more about Gluten Free Gigi, visit GlutenFreeGigi.com and sign up for her free newsletter. Stewart holds a master’s degree in Behavioral Neuroscience with a focus in chronic pain. She has been completely gluten free for more than four years. w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

an Atlanta classic since 1983.

404-627-8818 www.vickerys.com 933 Garrett St • Atlanta, GA 30316

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January 2012 | IN

real estate CITY LIVING | NEIGHBORHOODS | DEVELOPMENT

Steady & Improving Local homebuilders upbeat about 2012 market

By Shandra Hill Smith

You’ve likely heard the reports of new home construction slowing in parts of metro Atlanta and around the nation as a result of the economic downturn and its blow to the housing market.

In Intown though, steady and improving are the buzzwords these days as 2012 gets underway. We talked with three builders to help us shed light on the current trends: Monte Hewett of Monte Hewett Homes (montehewetthomes. com); Ryan Locke of Principle Builders Group, LLC (principlebuildersgroup.com); and Christopher Rudd of Thrive Homes (thrivehomesatlanta.com) In what Intown neighborhoods are you building?

Monte Hewett: Inside the perimeter we are building in Virginia Highland, Hillside at Chastain, Chastain Park, Westminster, West Buckhead, Park Overlook, Decatur/ Oakhurst Highpoint Manor and South Sandy Springs.

Ryan Locke: We work in Buckhead, Virginia Highlands, Ansley Park, Midtown, Brookhaven, Old Fourth Ward – basically anywhere the client will take us. We see strong growth in some of the lower cost areas like Kirkwood and Edgewood.

Christopher Rudd: Our Intown construction is limited to where we can identify lots, predominantly east of Peachtree Street and north of I-20. The primary focus is on Intown neighborhoods such as Decatur, Oakhurst, Kirkwood, Lake Claire, Candler Park, Virginia-Highland and Grant Park.

What price points are selling?

Hewett: $350,000 to $1 million-plus; it is really location and product specific.

Locke: The warm markets are between $150,000 and $380,000.

Rudd: Price is extremely neighborhood dependent. We are selling homes across multiple price points, in the $300,000 to $500,000 range in Kirkwood, the $500,000 to $800,000 range in Decatur and the $700,000 to $1,200,000 range in Inman Park, Candler Park and Morningside.

What does the typical buyer now look like?

Hewett: They are prioritizing locations based on walking communities and lifestyle

38 INtown | January 2012

convenience. They don’t want to spend time commuting. They want all the close-in conveniences. They are nervous like others, but because the supply is more limited, they are willing to move forward if the home is right because they know it might not be available next week.

Locke: He or she is one with a steady verifiable income with at least 20 percent skin in the game. There are only a few banks dealing in the CP [Construction to Permanent Financing] market, but the biggest hurdle now is getting a new project to appraise for the proper value.

Rudd: Current buyers and homeowners are incredibly savvy, in tune to the market and specific about their desires. We are seeing a trend toward buyers taking advantage of low interest rates and purchasing homes that they intend to live in for the next 20 to 30 years.

What special features/design elements are buyers looking for?

Hewett: They are looking for great kitchens with all the latest features, hardwoods. It seems to be less about square footage and more about function in the design of the home.

Locke: Cost, cost, cost! We find only a few of our clients are willing to create a home that reflects their specific architecture and design styles; it is all predicated by value.

Rudd: Buyers are looking for qualitybuilt homes with low maintenance – that are equally well-suited for both day-to-day living and entertaining. Buyers appreciate the energy savings that result from the implementation of green building practices.

What do you forecast for new home construction in 2012?

Hewett: In general, things are improving overall. It will still be a slow market for quite a while. We are going to continue to seek out great locations and build amazing homes that our buyers are looking for.

Locke: We are forecasting a steady pipeline of custom homes for 2012 but no growth – a zero percent year-over-year growth. We have to remember that zero growth is better than negative growth. Our renovation forecast is much stronger with a 22 percent year-over-year growth in revenue.

Rudd: We anticipate that new home construction will remain strong in neighborhoods supported by stable commercial districts, excellent schools and strong neighborhood organizations.

Monte Hewett Homes (above) and Thrive Homes (below) are seeing an uptick in new home construction as the real estate market continues to shake off the economic doldrums. Builders say new homebuyers are looking for walkable neighborhoods with nearby conveniences.

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Photo: Erica Dines

Harry Norman, REALTORS® The Intown Office | 1531 Piedmont Road NE | Atlanta, GA 30324 | Mike Wright, Sr. VP/Managing Broker | www.harrynorman.com

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January 2012 | IN

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Real Estate Briefs The Brandon Neighborhood Association recently became the 29th member of the Buckhead Council of Neighborhoods, an advocacy group for issues affecting Buckhead residents. This association covers more than 300 homes in Atlanta’s Brandon Neighborhood in the vicinity of Brandon Elementary School.

It includes within its boundaries portions of Moores Mill Road, Howell Mill Road, West Wesley Road, Peachtree Battle Avenue, Peachtree Battle Circle, Arden Road, Battle Overlook, Carmon on Wesley, Harwick Drive, and Nawench Drive. For additional information, email info@brandonatl.org and visit BrandonATL.org.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs approved Atlanta’s Opportunity Zone application for the Downtown and Midtown Atlanta sub-areas. The Downtown Opportunity Zone is bounded by Marietta Street/Decatur Street to the south, and North Avenue to the north, Centennial Olympic/Techwood on the West and Piedmont to the east, but also including the area within the Grady curve between Piedmont and the Interstate (I-75/85). The Midtown Opportunity Zone can generally be described as the strip of land between the Connector (I-75/85) and West Peachtree bound on the north by the Spring Buford Highway Connector and running south to North Avenue. Opportunity Zones are an important state redevelopment tool that provides local companies with increased incentives and benefits for job creation. An Opportunity Zone allows companies located within its boundaries to receive $3,500 per job per year for five years: a total of $17,500, for every net new job created. Any legal business entity creating two or more jobs within one year could qualify for these credits. Learn more dca.state.ga.us.

Ponce City Market is officially under construction.

Originally the Sears, Roebuck and Company distribution center and later City Hall East, interior demolitions began in late October and the entire project will be complete in spring 2014. The project will open in one phase and be a mix of commercial loft office space, retail, dining, entertainment and residential. Plans call for exciting sustainable initiatives such as a rooftop organic farm and rainwater harvesting. In addition, an urban food market is currently being planned. poncecitymarket.com.

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Wes Vawter, principal of the Vawter Group, announced the affiliation of Heather Pitts with his circle of agents within the Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty company. Completing her first decade in residential real estate, Health Pitts has been honored with Rookie of the Year Award, named one of “Top 6 Agents to Watch” by RE Magazine and chosen as a commentator for the radio talk show “How’s the Market.”

without adding any footprint to the home.

RenewalDesignBuild.com.

Cousins Properties has completed the acquisition of Promenade Two, a 774,000-square-foot, Class-A office building located in Midtown for $134.7 million in cash. The building is currently 58 percent leased. cousinsproperties.com.

Acadia Homes & Neighborhoods won two OBIE awards at the Atlanta Sales and Marketing Council’s OBIE Awards for Best Interior Model Merchandising Attached Model $299,999 and under for the two models at The Reserve at City Park. The models were decorated by Sandy Moon with Focus Design. The Chastain model won a Silver OBIE and the Brookwood plan won a Gold OBIE. Acadiahomes.us Through its award-winning Livable Centers Initiative, the Atlanta Regional Commission is awarding 13 local governments a total of $34 million to build innovative transportation projects. These communities will use the grants to make their LCI study areas more walkable, livable and, in some cases, more supportive of transit.

Each of these projects includes pedestrian and bicycle improvements that make the local roads, “complete streets.” Several implement technologies and features never seen in the Atlanta region. The Intown communities chosen include: Buckhead, Peachtree Corridor; Decatur, ClairemontCommerce-Church Bike and Pedestrian Improvements; Midtown Atlanta, Juniper Street Bike and Pedestrian Facilities; and Atlanta, Ponce de Leon Avenue Pedestrian Facilities and Beltline Connections. To see more information about each project, including the amount of the local match, visit atlantaregional.com/lci.

Epic Development was recognized for the second year in a row at the Atlanta Homebuilder’s Annual OBIE Awards presentation dinner where it received an OBIE in each of the four categories in which it competed. The company won in the categories of Outdoor Living Under $75K, Infill New Construction Under $299K, Remodel Under $250K, and Remodel $250K - $500K. This year’s additional OBIES bring Epic Development’s total to nine. epicdevelopment.com

The year-long renovation of the Historic Academy of Medicine at Georgia Tech was unveiled during the public grand opening last month. The renovation restored the original neoclassical architecture and upgraded the functionality and accessibility of the building, which sits at the corner of 7th and West Peachtree streets in Midtown.

Interest in using the National Register of Historic Places site for events is already strong. The building includes a 230-seat theater and six event spaces. The building is now available as a rental facility for social and corporate gatherings year round, including weddings, seminars, conferences with breakout sessions, collegiate events, musical performances and lectures. academy.gatech.edu 5300 Lofts, a 242 loft-condominium community located in Chamblee, has sold

21 homes sold since September. According to The Marketing Directors’ 3rd Quarter report, 5300 Lofts was ranked 8 of the top 10 selling condominium communities in Atlanta. Studio homes start at $59,900. themarketingdirectorsinc.com Acadia Homes & Neighborhoods has announced a new community, Sutherland Corner, located in the Lake Claire area of Atlanta. The three and four-story townhomes are priced from the mid $300,000s. acadiahomes.us Jeff Pollock of Pollock Commercial, Inc. was give the President’s Award at last month’s Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors annual meeting. Pollock represents a number of high profile properties including Glassworks, Inman Alley, The Jane, Studioplex, King Plow Arts Center and more. For more information visit pollockcommercial.com.

Home Rebuilders and DogGoneHandy will move into their new offices on Jan. 3 at 1123 Zonolite Road, Suite 18, Atlanta, 30306.

The new space is located in the Floataway building. The new location allows for a large warehouse space, which will allow DGH to grown into a multiple location handyman service. Stay tuned for mere news. homerebuilders.com and doggonehandy. com.

Atlanta Fine Homes Opens New Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty recently held a Grand Opening Party at their new Intown Office in the One Peachtree Pointe building at 1545 Peachtree Street.

Attending the event are (left to right:) Rodney Hinote, Chase Mizell, Whit Wood and Bobby Blaha.

Renewal Design-Build was awarded with a 2011 Contractor of the Year (CotY) award in the Residential Kitchen category at the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s annual Gala Awards. This is the third consecutive year the company has won a CotY award. The winning project, located in Decatur’s Winnona Park neighborhood, involved careful square footage analysis to design and build a larger, more modern kitchen

town 41

January 2012 | IN

IN Your Home

HOME IMPROVEMENT | RENOVATION TIPS| HOME DECOR | BEFORE & AFTERS

The House on the Hill 35 years in the making, The Tower is Morningside landmark

By John Fleming From a distance, the house atop the hill at 1209 N. Highland looks rough and unkept, its windows covered with plastic

sheeting, much of the exterior adorned with weathered and unpainted plywood.

Across Highland, from the cozy interior of the San Francisco Coffee House, one could come to the conclusion that it is

Remember how you felt about your very first house?

Feel that way again. www.H AWT H O RNI N C . c o m (404) 325-1004 42 INtown | January 2012

neglected, dilapidated, even.

One could be forgiven. Because you have to get close to realize that this house is architecturally complex, solidly built with the finest materials and stunningly beautiful.

Welcome to The Tower, the creation of John Harich, engineer, carpenter, artist and self-described jack-of-alltrades.

It is nothing short of a work of art, but it is also almost impossible to describe. There is Gothic influence here, as well as Gaudi -- a style usually described as ‘beyond the scope of modernism.’ There are marble arches, and “Japanese Moongates,” twisting columns rising from the earth and reaching upwards to hold the house in place, all made from 100 tons of Georgia marble.

The facade is mostly southern white pine and western red cedar. The flashing is copper, the roof is the highest gage aluminum.

Upstairs, above the cavernous first floor, is “The Great Hall of Tranquility,” a place dominated by massive wooden archways, held up by complex supports.

It looks more like a cathedral’s sanctuary than a future living room.

And that helps explain why The Tower has been under construction since 1975.

When that fact is pointed out to him – a house 35 years in the making – John Harich simply smiles and reminds a visitor that, “many of the people who worked on the cathedrals of Europe knew they would never see them finished.”

Oh, the 61-year-old Harich wants to finish before he dies, but he also wants to get it right. A lot goes into the planning, and there is the question of finding the time and the money. So, he gets to it in bits and pieces, when he has the time, the money and the friends to help.

The Great Hall, for example, took about two years to design and two years to build. In 1998, about 20 friends pitched in to help him raise the arches and beams in two days.

Good work takes time, but there’s something almost spiritual about this place for Harich.

“I want it to be perpetually inspiring to live in,” he says.

It certainly draws a lot of questions.

On a recent stunningly sunny day, neighbor Elizabeth Waddey drops around to introduce herself and asked if she could join the short tour.

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UNDER CONTRACT UNDER CONTRACT

“I’m absolutely fascinated with this place,” she said while looking out a southfacing window. “I see odd angles, different approaches to building. I think it’s so cool.”

Harich bought the lot at Amsterdam and Highland in 1973 for $4,250 and started building two years later. He’s been at it, off and on, ever since.

The city, he says, has been a pleasure to deal with. Inspectors, he explains, appreciate good building practices. The neighbors, as well, have been understanding and supportive.

Of course, what awaits is The Tower’s

completion. He can’t give a solid date for that, but he does have the goal of installing the rest of the windows and finish the siding this year.

With a little help, he says, maybe he’ll get there.

From the crow’s nest is a magnificent view of the Highlands, and downtown.

The bright sunlight plays with the shadows cast from leafless limbs that form a broken canopy above the roof.

It is a still, warm and peaceful winter’s day.

Standing atop his on-going creation, he looks about, taking it all in, then says, “this house is designed to live with, not in.”

Do you have

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win a new furnace and standard installation

UNDER CONTRACT UNDER CONTRACT

valued at $3,500!

Visit our website or call for registration details.

Gift certificates awarded for second and third prizes.

404-963-9363 www.empirehvac.com 1 Kempirehvac_AI_oldestfurnace.indd eepitINtown.com

10/16/09 5:37:21 PM

Sandy Springs. $399,900 440 Forest Valley Road NE 4BR/3BA FMLS: 4264338 Chase Mizell 404.835.9595

Sandy Springs. $425,000 95 NE Tamarisk Drive NE 4BR/3.5BA FMLS: 4255926 Kaufman & Metcalf Team 770.337.7122

Sandy Springs. $1,798,000 5230 Vernon Springs Trail 6BR/6.5BA FMLS: 4260042 Bonnie Majher 678.575.4439

Athens, Greece. $1,203,369 Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

OUR INTOWN OFFICE IS NOW OPEN! AtlantaFineHomes.com 404.874.0300

© MMXII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Artwork by Jill Steenhuis used with permission. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

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January 2012 | IN

pick

The Bob ProJect, Part 1

An Intowner builds his dream home

By Pamela Berger sweetpeachblog.com My friend Bob Conquest recently began construction on a new home in Atlanta. I’m really excited about the design of the home as it’s a classic modern with some influence from Frank Lloyd Wright.

I wanted to capture the process of building his house from start to finish and inspire others with his care for design and detail.

So let The Bob Project begin...

It takes vision to transform a deserted lot but that’s exactly what Bob has done.

Others passing by may not have realized the potential of this abandoned house in its own salad bowl of kudzu but that was something Bob instinctively saw, along with the architect he hired, Ute Banse of Ute Design.

Most of the homes on Bob’s street are one-floor brick ranches. From outward appearance, it will appear his home is one floor as well. Until you walk around back and realize there’s a whole second floor downstairs, which the surprisingly deep backyard slope allowed. It’s deceiving and very cool and will allow for a total living

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space of the home to be 3300 square feet.

This is truly a project for Bob as takes on the challenge of overseeing the design and build of a stylish, functional home that is also energy efficient. He found the right contractor, JR McDowell and together they decided on the right materials and energy efficient measures that would keep Bob’s overall vision intact.

The 2” x 6” studs used to build the exterior are one of the key elements that will increase the effectiveness of the insulation.

A large 42” x 42” skylight was placed above the staircase to the bottom floor to bring in the sun and eliminate the feeling of going downstairs to a dark basement. As Bob says, “It will never be called a basement.” Indeed, when you walk down the stairs you’ll find a spacious second floor with ample living space that includes an entertainment room, a large storage area and two full bedroom suites, each complete with a walk in closet and full size bath.

Bob is most excited about the back porch. As he explains, “It’s deep and with the slope of the land, you overlook a large, wooded lot. Neighbors have seen deer and foxes so I plan on sitting back there

with a glass of wine and wait to see what nature brings.” He’s also excited by the dog door as it signifies no more getting up in the middle of the night to let the dog out.

As I have two dogs and two dog doors, I couldn’t agree more. It’s a sleep and worry saver.

Some of the design of the home is influenced by famed architect and designer, Frank Lloyd Wright. As Bob explains, “Wright’s designs appear simple but were very thought out.” He adds, “He has a clean design with an almost utilitarian look.” Bob especially likes Wright’s attention to materials and textures that have a horizontal emphasis which will influence his home’s railings inside and out his as well as any interior tile.

Another Wright inspired feature are the wide overhanging eaves. They provide shelter to every part of the home and create clean, flowing lines which Wright gravitated towards. Rectangular columns are also a nod to Wright, who delighted in arranging geometric shapes into formal patterns.

Stay tuned for The Bob Project: Part 2!

INTOWN DIRECTORIES 404-586-0002 ext 302

Faux FinIshes ROSE WHITAKER ARTIST

WILLIAM H. KELLY

painted wall treatments, murals, furniture etcetera

wkelly@allstate.com 1776 Briarcliff #B, Atlanta, GA 30306

404-584-ROSE rose584@att.net

(404) 876 3180

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Organized Spaces & Room to Grow Family or Individual Portraits Engagements, special events & more 404 316 8254 Visit my website: www.imagopix.net restaurant supply company

Used Restaurant Supplies Steamtable Pans Floor Mats Garbage Pails A little bit of Everything We Buy Used Kitchen Wares

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44 INtown | January 2012

CONCRETE WORK Aprons•Driveways•Sidewalks Curb & Gutter•Walls Asphalt•Pothole Repair

Becky Whetzell Organizing Expert 404-982-7128 Gift Certificates Available

licensed and insured

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PROVIDERS

PETS & PET SERVICES Sandy’s Services

Petsitting, house cleaning, and more.

Call Sandy

404-966-1526 HAVE LEASH … WILL TRAVEL! KeepitIntown.com

Before & After

These Druid Hills homeowners had an old garage that needed to be torn down and called in Hawthorn, Inc. to do the job.

Here’s what Hawthorn’s Steve Prittie had to say about the project: “The homeowners wanted to have a carport structure that felt more like it belonged more to the garden than to the cars.

The solution was to build a steel-framed carport, which enabled us to eliminate any visible means of bracing through the rigidity provided by the welded steel frame. Hollow fiberglass Tuscan columns and cedar roof beams and decking complete the structure. The curved brick wall provides a planting bed and helps define the space between garden and driveway (which also serves as a patio.) The electrical service to the new carport from the house is buried, the homeowners have electric car plug-in charging capability.”

Prittie said the project required approval from the DeKalb County Historic Preservation Committee, as well as a variance from DeKalb County for set back and lot coverage as the homeowners property has less than half of the required lot area for its zoning. For more information about Hawthorn, visit hawthorninc.com.

Traditional value, modern innovation.

Comfortable, healthy, energy efficient.

Stylistic preferences vary, but there’s no disagreement here: When it comes to home construction or renovation, green ingenuity is more comfortable, healthier, and more energy efficient. That’s why, modern or traditional, Pinnacle applies tomorrow’s promise of environmentally-friendly innovation to yesterday’s sense of true craftsmanship. The best of both worlds.

Your priorities, your budget. That’s our style.

404-373-2345 pinnacle-custom-builders.com

H IGH P ERF ORM A NCE HO ME SE R VICE S

g in ld i Bu er ft n ra ee inn C r G W th ar of al ard E n r tio Aw 10 to r 20 ova ea Na Y & 7 Ren he 0 t 20

WISHING ALL OF OUR PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE CLIENTS a HAPPY and HEALTHY NEW YEAR! Terry Kitts, builder Dawn Landau, designer, realtor

www.environsresidential.com KeepitINtown.com

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January 2012 | IN

By Tina Chadwick Since Atlanta has once again become the film capital of the South, it’s no surprise that more and more movies and TV series are shooting in and aroundn the city. The latest is reality show called Mega Dens for the DIY Network.

If you’re willing to get your hands a

little dirty in exchange for one of the coolest family living spaces in Atlanta, apply to be a Mega Dens family. Designer Anitra Mecadon transforms family rooms, dens and basements into dreamy spaces worthy of gracing magazine covers. The show airs Sundays at 8:30 p.m.

Mecadon spends time with the selected family to learn about each member’s likes/

dislikes and also how the family dynamic plays out as a whole. She then puts her design skills to work drafting up a creative 3-D rendering that incorporates the family’s unique wants and needs she’s uncovered along the way. The renovation and filming takes place in just five days.

For a musically-inclined family, Mecadon made end tables out of old drums and cymbal sconces. But it’s all not just cool design. The rooms actually function as well. The music room had a soundabsorbing wall and additional wiring for all the equipment. She made a coffee bar out of aged wine barrel board and used railroad wheels so that the whole thing could be rolled out of the way.

Each member of a selected family is assigned a skill-appropriate task to help out with the renovation during the first couple of days. Then, the family is banned from seeing the final touches on the room to build excitement for a big reveal where the family is taken into the space and shown the metamorphosis.

“You’ll see lots of good ideas done really well,” said the show’s casting and field producer, Brian Bremer. “Sometimes it’s found items reused in fresh ways or it’s high tech toys like a touch pen TV that really make it all work for each family. The show is practical and modern all at once.”

Builders and brothers, Michael and Joey Scialabba, bring Mecadon’s ideas to life

meticulously––even within the constraint of the 5-day turn-around. They assemble the right cast of builders, suppliers and other contractor partners to coordinate a seamless build out that all happens to be under the unblinking eye of cameras at every turn.

“There is constantly something funny going on. I mean, when you hand a paintbrush to a child, there’s going to be some artistic license. Somehow Anitra makes it all work.” Bremer mused. “There are also tense moments given the task and the timeframe. One homeowner accidentally screwed through Joey’s finger – that was a trip to the hospital!” But the house still made schedule.

If you would like to throw your den in the ring for consideration to be a Mega Dens family, visit diynetwork.com then search “Mega Dens Casting”.

www.IntegralStructure.com

46 INtown | January 2012

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January 2012 | IN

ATLANTA INTOWN OFFICE

Building the blocks of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods since 1979!

404-874-2262 Intown@ColdwellBankerAtlanta.com

Over 87% of homebuyers start their search online. Start yours at www.ColdwellBankerAtlanta.com. www.ColdwellBankerPreviews.com

BROOKHAVEN. Features stunning hardwoods, SS & granite in kitchen, large master suite, fresh paint.

4Bed/3.5Bath $425,000 FMLS: 4295247 Derek Scheidt 404-593-4754 Stephen Simonson 404-326-0876

LAKE CLAIRE. Charming all brick traditional w/updated kitchen, builtin bookcases, rocking chair screen porch, hardwoods, updated plumbing. 3Bed/1Bath $310,000 FMLS: 4294125 Clarke Weeks 404-932-0391

Luxury Properties need Previews Marketing

MORNINGSIDE Freshly painted, high end renovated kitchen, formal dining room, 2 car garage, large walk-out deck.

2Bed/2.5Bath $299,900 FMLS: 4301505 Bradford Smith 404-210-4141

LAKE CLAIRE Another fabulous Stoney River Home now available. Tons of beautiful details – new construction at its finest!

4Bed/3Bath $679,900 FMLS: 4296506 Kathleen Sickeler 404-368-3234

Agent of the Month

BROOKHAVEN. Well appointed home featuring gourmet kitchen, beautiful hardwoods, large master suite.

5Bed/4.5Bath $941,000 FMLS: 4286762 Derek Scheidt 404-593-4754 Stephen Simonson 404-326-0876

VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. Spacious home on quiet street, lovingly maintained, large sunroom, light filled kit w/granite, private fenced yard. 4Bed/3.5Bath $699,999 FMLS: 4255342 Michael Smith 404-786-2057

VIRGINIA HIGHLAND 1925 4 sided brick bungalow featuring renovated kitchen & bath, master on main, private backyard.

3Bed/2.5Bath $534,000 FMLS: 4276586 Miriam Mathura 404-210-1715

TUCKER Newer high-end construction, high ceils throughout, multiple outdoor covered porches, elegant mill work, cook’s kitchen.

3Bed/2.5Bath $399,000 FMLS: 4299646 Sally Westmoreland 404-354-4845

Sally Westmoreland

MORNINGSIDE Exceptional newer construction w/ beautiful custom details, 10’ coffered ceils, custom woodworking. A must see! 5Bed/3.5Bath $649,900 FMLS: 4266053 Erin Fye 404-771-9822

DECATUR. Wonderful updated home, drive under garage, large rear deck, hardwoods, close to Emory/CDC. 4Bed/2Bath $333,000 FMLS: 4261792 Gerry Lowrey 678-362-9596 Sandra Smith 770-856-8144

MORNINGSIDE Features sparkling hardwoods, great sunroom, private fenced yard, 2 car garage, updated kitchen & baths.

4Bed/3Bath $409,000 FMLS: 4267620 Ann Hudson 404-307-9902

MORNINGSIDE Beautiful 3/2 on large lot, renovated w/new roof, fresh paint, refinished hardwoods, updated baths & kitchen, 1 car garage. $359,900 FMLS: 4276941 Phil Khayat 404-245-0640

VICTORIA ESTATES Renovated home features spacious kitchen, sunroom overlooking lush wooded yard, abundant natural light.

4Bed/4.5Bath $649,000 FMLS: 4272638 Ron Pope 678-420-1833

Any House • Any Where!

Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country, we can help. We are networked with superior real estate professionals throughout the US. Give us a call and we’ll find you an agent.

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Jason Downey 404-593-5176

... We never stop moving!

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Careers in Real Estate:

There’s never been a better time to pursue a career in Real Estate! Whether you’re a new agent or had your license for years, Coldwell Banker can help you! For more information call 404-874-2262. ... We look forward to having you on our team!

Atlanta’s #1 Coldwell Banker Office - 2006, 2007, 2008 Intown Office - 1370 North Highland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30306 - (404) 874-2262 Lisa Johnson, Managing Broker ® Ow ne d & Ope r a te d by NRT, LLC , – G A R E LI C # 5 9 7 3 0 – A l l I n f or m a t i on i s b el i ev ed ac c u r a t e b u t not w arran ted – E q u al Hou s i n g O p p ortu n i ty

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