June 2011, Atlanta INtown

Volume 17• Number 6•©2011

JUNE 2011

SOUTHERN AUTHORS 22

PATIO DINING 30

CONDOS BOUNCE BACK 38

page 4

R E M E M B E R I N G T H E AT L A N TA C R A C K E R S & P O N C E D E L E O N PA R K

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CONTACT US Hyperlocal news print | online | social media www.AtlantaINtownPaper.com Twitter: @ATLINtownPaper Wendy G. Binns 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 ADVERTISING INFO (404) 586-0002 x 302 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 CLASSIFIEDS 404-586-0002 x302 classifieds@atlantaintownpaper.com INTERN April McFadden Grady High School CONTRIBUTORS Cameron Adams, Kate Atwood, Ann Boutwell, Tina Chadwick, Ty Collins, Patrick Dennis, Brigette Flood, Helen Grebe, Melody Harclerode, Manning Harris, Walt Harrison, Karen Head, Dr. Ami Klin, Parker Killenberg, Jesse Morado, Elizabeth Patrick, John Schaffner, Laura Turner Seydel, Shandra Hill Smith, Tim Sullivan, Sandy Tyler, Thom Volarath, 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.

Who We Are and Why

For more than 15 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.

on tHe CoVer: the scrapbook collage of images from the atlanta Crackers features photos, postcards and ephemera from the collections of oreon Mann and INtown’s historian, ann Boutwell.

Table of Contents IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Minor League Memories ..........................4 Letter from the Editor ...............................5 Emory Lifelong Learning ..........................7 Intown Datebook ......................................8 Living by Giving ......................................10 Atlanta Children’s Shelter at 25 ..............10 Exchange Students ...............................12 Pets.........................................................15 Intown Runaround ..................................16 Autism Affects Everyone ........................17 Health & Wellness Briefs ........................17 Health & Environment ............................19 Emily Ellison ...........................................20 Street Fashion ........................................21

THE STUDIO Southern Reads .....................................22 Atlanta PlanIt ..........................................24 The Thinking Artist ..................................26 Callanwolde Jazz Festival ......................27 A Look Back ...........................................29 Laughing Skull Comedy Club ................29

NEWS YOU CAN EAT

Dear INtown Readers, SCOTT LOWDEN

atlanta IntoWn MedIa, llC

Legend says that the longest home run ever hit was at the Ponce de Leon Park. The baseball landed on a train, which traveled all the way to Florida. My old neighbor and Atlanta Crackers fan, Henry Turner, who used skip school to watch the games from the railroad tracks, confirmed this story. Oreon Mann, who Collin interviewed this month (see next page), also grinned from ear to ear when I asked him the trivia question at the last INtown reader party.

He knew the answer because his father owned the park and The Atlanta Crackers minor league team.

There is a modern day sports legend in the making here in Atlanta. This story is about Holy Innocents Academy student O’Neal Wanliss, 18, and takes place on the track. You may remember O’Neal from INtown’s annual 20 Under 20 for his work with the school’s recycling program and his own Spikes 4 Tykes programs. He has a big heart for giving back. o’neal And he also has big speed.

WanlIss In last month’s Georgia Olympics, O’Neal broke WItH a the 1 minute, 50 second record in the 800 meters. faVorIte Like the school counselor said when she called with teaCHer the news, “we knew you’d want to know because you consider him one of your own.” You might feel the same. Our star heads to the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill this fall on a full scholarship. Go, O’Neal!

Please help us tell the community about more philanthropic students, like O’Neil.

INtown’s 4th Annual 20 Under 20 will be here before we know it. See page 10 for the nomination information. We hope to hear from you!

Al Fresco Dining .....................................30 Quick Bites .............................................33

GO GREEN New Parks Open ....................................34 Eco-Briefs ...............................................34 Laura Turner Seydel................................35

IN BUSINESS Atlanta Bloggers .....................................36 Business & Retail Briefs .........................36 Making Sense of Social..........................37

“IN JULY, WE’LL SHOW YOU FIVE MORE REASONS NOT TO EAT YOUR FRIENDS!”

- B E R N A D E T T E C O N S TA N C E

REAL ESTATE Condos, Lofts Bounc Back ....................38 Perspectives in Architecture ...................39 Real Estate Briefs ...................................42

in YOUR HOME Outdoor Rooms & Porches ....................43 Gardening ..............................................45 Renovation Coach..................................46

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- REBECCA GRACE

Coming in July: The INtown Takeover

FIND US AT:

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

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IN the Neighborhood FEATURES, NEWS & EVENTS

Remembering the Atlanta Crackers and Ponce de Leon Park

By Collin Kelley Editor The one constant through all the years… has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again.

But baseball has marked the time. – Terence Mann in Field of Dreams

Oreon became a batboy for the Crackers, traveling all over the southeast with the team during long, hot summers when fans would pack into the sweltering parks to enjoy a hot dog and the satisfying crack of the bat.

The Crackers and Ponce de Leon Park are, sadly, both history now. The Crackers, Oreon Mann

Some of Oreon Mann’s earliest memories are the times he spent with his father at Ponce de Leon Park watching the Atlanta Crackers play baseball. Except, Mann was more than just a spectator – his father, Earl Mann, owned the minor league team from 1949 to 1959.

Baseball greats such as Luke Appling and Eddie Matthews got their start with the team and veteran sportscasters Ernie Harwell and Skip Carey cut their teeth calling Crackers games. The team won 17 league championships in its six-decade history, rivaled only by the New York Yankees.

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created in 1901, were dissolved when the Braves came to town in 1965. Ponce de Leon Park is now the Midtown Place shopping center (home to Whole Foods, Borders and Home Depot). Earl Mann passed away in 1990 and his ashes were scattered under the famed magnolia tree that once stood deep in centerfield.

“My father was a great appraiser of talent and he sent out scouts to find players for the Crackers,” Oreon says. “He was one of the first to do that.”

Oreon says baseball was part of his father’s DNA. Earl, born in 1904 in Clayton County, was selling peanuts and soft drinks at Ponce de Leon Park by the time he was 12.

Later, he sold tickets and eventually became the Crackers team secretary. He went on to manage four different minor league teams – and each won a pennant under his leadership – before returning to Atlanta to become vice-president of the Crackers. He became president of the team at age 30 in 1935, the youngest man to ever hold such a

Earl Mann, left, and the legendary baseball player and manager of the Philadelphia Athletics, Connie Mack.

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Letter from the Editor Collin Kelley Editor I have an odd relationship with baseball.

I can count on one hand the number of Braves games I’ve attended in my life. I’ll occasionally watch a game on television, and I had the amazing opportunity to watch the 1995 World Series while hovering over the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium in the Goodyear blimp as the Braves squared off against the Cleveland Indians.

Maybe I’m a little ADHD, because I’ve never been able to sit still through a game.

Even sports I enjoy watching – like tennis and soccer – require extra attention.

And, yet, I love the history of baseball.

The players, the ballparks, the commentators of the past – it’s all fascinating stuff. I love movies about baseball, and I’m not ashamed to admit I get a little verklempt every time I watch Field of Dreams.

Interviewing Oreon Mann for this month’s cover story on the Atlanta Crackers and Ponce de Leon Park also made me a little verklempt. I’m not sure if it was the baseball or sitting in Oreon’s living room in his beautiful Inman Park home and becoming nostalgic for all the things we’ve lost in Atlanta.

Atlanta can’t stop tearing down its history (or changing the names of its streets, for that matter). The grand old Terminal Station in Downtown should still be there, Lowe’s Grand Theatre should have been renovated after the fire in 1978, and you should still be able to catch a minor league or college game at Ponce de Leon Park. I could go on and on, but I digress.

Summer arrives on June 21 and the Braves – both the Atlanta and Gwinnett minor league team – are well into their seasons. I’m going to make a valiant effort to sit still and watch a few more games this year.

Don’t forget that our July issue is the SCAD INtown Takeover edition. The graduate freelance writing class led by Chris Bundy has done some amazing articles and video, which we will upload to our YouTube channel. We can’t wait for you to read and experience it!

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continued from page 4

Top photo: Earl Mann presents Charlie McCarthy with an Atlanta Crackers jersey. Below: Earl Mann, far right, met Mae West in Hollywood.

She signed the photo with her famous quip, “Come up and see me sometime.”

position in baseball.

Oreon has fond memories of his childhood at Ponce de Leon Park, which sat in the shadow of the giant Sears & Roebuck building (later City Hall East) and the uncomfortable flannel uniforms the team wore. The stadium, rebuilt after a fire in 1923, was one of the most modern in the country with gently sloping ramps, actual seats instead of wooden benches, a broadcast booth and could hold 20,000 fans.

“Train tracks ran above the first baseline side of the park, and engineers would stop and watch the games,” Mann recalls. “Those tracks are where the Atlanta BeltLine is now.”

Oreon became the iconic face of the Crackers as a small boy, when he was photographed for the cover of the old Atlanta Journal Magazine in the 1940s, wearing an oversized uniform and holding a bat over his shoulder in the middle of Ponce de Leon Park. The image, along with dozens of others, are now part of the collection at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Earl was nicknamed the “Baseball Genius in Dixie” and his team was often referred to as the “hated Atlanta Crackers” by other teams because of their success.

Under his direction, the Crackers won more league championships than any other team in the Southern Association and Ponce de Leon Park also set records for attendance.

Earl’s management skill extended beyond the baseball realm. When University of Georgia went to the Rose Bowl in 1943, the Bulldogs asked Earl to travel with them as ticket manager. While in California, he got to hobnob with celebrities like the legendary Mae West, who signed a photo of her and Earl together with her famous tagline – “Come up and see me sometime.”

Earl was also friends with golf great Bobby Jones and baseball icon Babe Ruth.

Earl also broke the color barrier by

signing outfielder Nat Peeples in 1954 as the first African-American to play for the Southern Association. Earl came under fire for trading Peeples to the Class A Jacksonville Braves after only two games in the official season with fans and local media debating whether Earl caved to pressure from whites upset about integration or if Peeples’ performance just wasn’t up to snuff. History has come down on the side of the latter, because Oreon remembers that his father was strong-willed and not intimidated by anyone.

While Earl went on to be inducted in the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and the National Baseball Hal of Fame, Oreon said he “wasn’t quite good enough” to have a career in the sport. He coached third base at his alma mater, Oglethorpe University, before going on to a career in computer software development. He still speaks regularly to students and baseball lovers about his father, the Crackers and Ponce de Leon Park.

A lasting memory Oreon has of his father is one afternoon at the ballpark when a sewer main erupted and sent a geyser of water into centerfield. “I said to my father, ‘well, I guess we won’t have a game tonight.’

My father said, ‘sure we will.’ We went over to the meat-and-three restaurant that used to be where EATS is now, had dinner and came back to the park and the water had drained off and the game went on. My father knew every nook and corner of the park and the condition of the field well.”

Earl sold the Crackers in 1959 after attendance began to drop off at the park.

More and more people were watching games on television than coming to Ponce de Leon Park. The Crackers played their final season in Atlanta Stadium (which later became Atlanta-Fulton County stadium and was demolished prior to the Olympics to make way for Turner Field) in 1965 before the franchise was disbanded with the arrival of

the Braves.

Oreon says if you go see the minor league Gwinnett Braves, you can get a taste of what Ponce de Leon Park was like at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville. Designers and architects used the old Ponce ballpark as the basis for their design.

Ponce de Leon Park was demolished in 1966 after Earl sold the property. The magnolia tree is all that remains. But baseball still marks the time.

play several positions competently, a sort of jack of all trades. He would continue to play in the minor leagues until 1941.

To this day the city of Mobile fondly remembers the Best Loved Bears of

1947 who played in old Hartwell Field. The team finished the 1947 season with a record of 94-59. The coach was my Uncle Red. He died on New Year’s Eve 1964 and is buried in Mobile’s Pine Crest Cemetery.

Catch a Game!

June home games for the Atlanta Braves and Gwinnett Braves.

Atlanta Braves June 1, 7:10 p.m.

VS the Padres June 14-16, 7:10 p.m. VS the Mets June 17-19, times vary, VS the Rangers June 20-22, times vary, VS the Blue Jays For tickets and details, visit Braves.com.

Gwinnett Braves

June 1-2, 7:05 p.m. VS Lehigh Valley IronPigs June 3-6, times vary, VS the Buffalo Bisons June 16-19, times vary, VS the Durham Bulls June 20-23, 7:05 p.m., VS the Syracuse Chiefs For tickets and details, visit gwinnettbraves.com.

My Uncle Red

By Ann Boutwell My Uncle Red – William Russell Rollings (1904-1964) – entered the realm of baseball shouting “peanuts, peanuts” at the old Monroe Park grandstand on Mobile Bay in Alabama.

By 1924, he was playing for the Mobile Bears and then was signed on as infielder/ outfielder and third baseman for the Boston Red Sox in 1927. The Boston Herald called Uncle Red’s southern accent “Dixie talk,” and described him as a gentlemen who was always a class act, even when catching foul balls.

Red played for the Red Sox through the 1928 season and then with the Boston Braves in 1930, totaling 184 games and 355 at-bats in his major league career. During a short stint in 1929 with the Hollywood Stars team, Red captured a role in the silent movie Fast Company, playing himself. The

6 INtown | June 2011

comedy chronicles the rise of Elmer Kane, a country rube played by Jackie Oakie, who becomes a baseball legend for the New York Yankees. Not only does he help the team win the World Series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, he also beats a group of gangsters all by himself.

In March 1933, Red signed with the Atlanta Crackers and played in the old Ponce de Leon Park. The same year the Goudey Gum Company produced a 240 card set called “Big League Chewing Gum.” These cards, issued with bubble gum in each pack, were the first baseball gum cards.

Uncle Red got his own card.

Jimmy Jones, an Atlanta Constitution sportswriter said, “a peek in the records shows that the languid, saffron-haired third baseman of the Crackers has played remarkably steady ball since his entrance to the lineup on April 21, 1933.”

Red was a utility player, one who could

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LifeLong Learning Emory program provides learning for those 50+

By Tina Chadwick

The student body at Emory University is made up primarily of college-age students.

But take a stroll Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday morning and you’re likely to see a few bright-eye, gray haired students toting backpacks on their way to classes. `They are part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Emory (OLLIE), an all-volunteer program where very seasoned professors and professionals teach a variety of intellectual courses to those 50-plus.

Although it is highly structured and very academic, the program is actually a community outreach effort to offer continued education for seniors.

“We keep things pretty academic. We tap Emory emeritus professors who are long time teachers in their field, and they cover anything from Quantum Physics to Dante’s Inferno,” says King Mengert, Program Director for OLLIE under the umbrella of Emory Continuing Education.

Mengert has been in his position for four years, so he’s seen the program evolve and grow into a roughly 720-member organization. In any given quarter of classes, there are an average of 350 students enrolled and active. Although he admits his students and professors alike have much more life experience and impressive credentials, he collaborates with a small base of them who make up a Curriculum Committee. These volunteers are members and instructors who help him develop schedules, topics, courses and every aspect of the program.

“Almost all classes are fueled by volunteer energy. Most are gung ho to keep engaging. Everyone is there because they want to learn. It’s the closest you can get to pure form of learning,” Mengert says.

He explains what’s most interesting is that the professors are dealing with peers

in their classrooms instead of traditional students. That transforms a classroom to a forum of people who all have a long history of life experiences, so it’s more of a sharing atmosphere than the usual of imparting knowledge to a more naïve audience.

Asked what he has learned being surrounded by all that knowledge, Mengert says, “I can be as ironic and cynical as the next guy, but find I rarely am with this program. I’ve never had a job where I can totally believe in what I’m doing. It’s a pretty good feeling to be a part of it and it is a privilege since I’m not 50 yet.”

Jack Carew, an instructor who labels himself a “Discussion Leader,” was touched by this energy when he engaged as a senior student 11 years ago. After the class, he was so inspired that he introduced himself to the program director at the time and offered to lecture in political science. He started the next quarter and has been part of the program ever since. “I want to continue to be challenged and challenge others who want to keep learning,” Carew said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

The program is funded by the Osher Foundation, which supports 117 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes on university and college campuses across the country, with at least one program in each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. Bernard Osher set up the foundation because he believed intellectual and social engagement has a tremendously positive affect people’s quality of life as they age.

This comes through crystal clear as Carew ponders his experience. “Our parents never had this kind of life opportunity.

Most grew up in ‘30s during the war when this kind of activity wasn’t available. One of the great things is that we now all live longer and healthier lives, and those lives can be enriched. That’s why I always tell my students no matter where you are in life, don’t ever quit.”

For more, visit ece.emory.edu.

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June 3-5

Sacred Heart Tattoo presents the 15 annual Atlanta Tattoo Festival at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Atlanta Perimeter. The event will be held June 3-5 and will feature live tattooing seminars, vendors, contests, and much more. Day passes are available starting at $20. All ages are welcome and 18 and under are free. For Hotel directions please call (800) 972-2404. For additional information, visit atlantatattooartsfestival.com. th

June 5

The 3rd annual CAN Dance For Cancer will take place on June 5 from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Defoor Centre, 1710 Defoor Ave. The event will featur dance lessons, performances and an 80s dance party. Admission is $15 advance, $20 at the door. For more information visit candanceforcancer.com or call (404) 290-6799.

June 9

Literacy Volunteers of Atlanta celebrates the silver anniversary of the organization’s signature fundraising event, Spellabration, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 9, in the Egyptian Ballroom of The Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. in Midtown. Spellabration combines a speed Scrabble tournament and

June 10-12

Through the Veil: A Paranormal and Metaphysical Gathering is June 10-12 at the Hilton Hotel in Downtown at 255 Courtland St. James Redfield, author of The Celestine Prophecy, will be the keynote speaker. There will also be appearances

by Lauretta Hannon (author of The Cracker Queen), Chip Coffey from A&E’s Paranormal State and Jon Stetson, the real life inspiration of the TV show The Mentalist. Tickets are $125 for the 3 day event. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit throughtheveil.org

June 11

Hands Around The Hill presents Race To House the Homeless, June 11 at 8 a.m. rain or shine. The 5k run/walk through historic downtown and Grant Park will be cosponsored by the Catholic Shrine and Central Presbyterian Churches. Registration is $25 and available only online at active.com.

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Summer Movies

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June 17

Celebrate the beginning of summer at the annual Decatur Beach Party Friday, June 17, from 5 p.m. until midnight. Decatur brings in 60 tons of sand and turns the courthouse square into a beach complete with a kid’s boardwalk, live music, dancing, food court and more. For tickets and music line up visit decaturdba.com or call (678) 553-6573.

June 18

The annual Rock the Cure fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is Saturday, June 18, 7 to 11 p.m. at Sweetwater Brewing Company. Featured bands will include Mama’s Love and Lost City. There will also be food, beer and raffle prizes. Tickets range from $30 to $50. jdrfrockthecure.org.

Dancing Stars of Atlanta is Saturday, June 18, 6:30p.m. to midnight at the Loews Atlanta Hotel to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. Local celebrities will dance with professional dancers. For tickets, visit dancingstarsofatlanta.com.

June 23

Evolve!, a fundraiser for YouthPride, will be held Thursday, June 23, from 6-10 p.m. at Bill Lowe Gallery, 1555 Peachtree St., Suite 100. The event raises awareness and provides assistance to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered teens with mental health issues. For more information, visit youthpride.org.

Atlantic Station is holding Movies in the Park every Thursday this summer with a mix of new and classic films.

This month the line-up includes Mama Mia (June 2), Jurassic Park (June 9), Déjà Vu (June 16), Elizabeth Taylor tribute night with screening of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (June 23) and Grease (June 30). For the full list of movies, visit atlanticstation.com.

The Flicks on 5th summer film series kicks off in mid June with a screening of a free movie on Wednesday nights on the 5th Street Bridge in the heart of Georgia Tech’s Technology Square at Spring Street at 5th Street. The line up includes Hall Pass (June 15), The Adjustment Bureau (June 22), Just Go With It (June 29), Battle: Los Angeles (July 13), Rango (July 20) and Paul (July 27). Patrons are invited to come at 7 p.m. to enjoy food from Tech Square’s local restaurants many of which will be offering movie night specials. Movies begin at 9 p.m. (rain or shine) and you’re welcome to bring blankets and folding chairs. flickson5th.gatech.edu.

The Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival at The Fox Theatre kicks off June 9 with the Oscar-winning The Social Network.

Other movies coming this month include the Coen Brother’s re-imaging of True Grit (June 10), Rango (June 11) and the classic To Kill a Mockingbird (June 11).

Tickets are $8 for each movie. To see the full schedule, visit foxtheatre.org.

Summerfest June 4-5 The Virginia-Highland Civic Association presents the 28th annual Virginia-Highland Summerfest, June 4-5. Celebrate the beginning of summer with an artist market featuring more than 200 vendors, food and live music presented by radio station partner, Dave FM. This year’s event also features a 5K race on Saturday morning, along with activities designed for children in the Kidsfest area in John Howell Park. Hours for the festival are 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday along Virginia Avenue. The music line-up includes Nathan Beaver, Lera Lynn, Grahams Number, The Whisky Gentry, Ed Roland & The Sweet Tea Project, Aunt Martha, Davin McCoy, Marcy Playground and the Freddy Jones Band. For a complete list of events, parking details and more, visit vahi.org/summerfest.html or 929dave.fm. 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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Living by Giving

Haley Kilpatrick, Girl Talk founder, sits in the middle of the second row surrounded by girls whose lives are impacted by the organization.

Kate Atwood

Kilpatrick helps girls talk, dream & succeed I was 23 years old when I started Kate’s Club. Today, eight years later, I look back and reflect upon just how young I was to be taking on such a task. But when a fire is ignited in our soul to give, it’s up to us to acknowledge it and do something with it.

For Haley Kilpatrick, that fire was lit at the age of 15.

Her story emphasizes the understanding that age is just a number when it comes to the capacity for each of us to find joy and purpose by reaching out to help others, especially those we relate to most.

Haley shares with Living by Giving about her passion to help young girls, and the growth of her organization, Girl Talk, over the past nine years.

Tell us about Girl Talk and share a little about how it has grown from a grassroots group to a global movement helping girls around the world.

Girl Talk is a nonprofit peer-to-peer mentoring program for middle school girls.

The mission is simple: through weekly

meetings, high school girls help middle school girls build self-esteem, develop leadership skills and learn how to give back. We work hard to ensure that there are no costs associated with the program.

Any high school girl seeking an incredible leadership opportunity can start a chapter in her school. Girl Talk has grown from one chapter in my hometown, to more than 440 programs in 43 states, three countries and reaching 32,000 girls. The support from local businesses and individuals has been the greatest gift to me and to Girl Talk. Businesses like Brown Bag Marketing & Pivot Strategic Marketing have been invaluable to Girl Talk’s growth and success.

Our goal is to ultimately reach millions of girls.

Can you tell us about the experience in your own life that lead you to start the organization?

I was 15 years old when I started Girl Talk and that was the same year my younger sister, Kelly, started middle school. Middle school was a very hard time for me. I felt left out, alone and very misunderstood. I would often eat lunch in the bathroom to try to avoid the “battle zone” of the cafeteria.

Girls can be mean! I remember feeling like

the only one going through it. No one was talking about it. I knew that there had to be a way to prevent my sister from going through the same things I did. I told my favorite teacher that I was frustrated by the way girls were treating each other in middle school and that I had this idea for a program that could help. The idea was to have high school girls be there for middle school girls and tell them that they are not alone, they are understood and most of all that they went through it, too. At our first meeting I expected five or six girls to show up and to my surprise, 80 percent of the middle school girls came. It was obvious that there was a need.

Creating a nonprofit is tough stuff. What has been the most rewarding part?

There have been, and continue to be, tough times when I am not sure how we are going to make it financially, but thanks to Facebook there are daily reminders of why we do what we do. Parents, teachers and girls will post on our wall or send a message to say thank you. Knowing that Girl Talk is positively impacting lives makes any W W W. AT L A N TA I N T O hardship W N PA P E Rbearable. .COM When you receive a letter from a mom of one our participants that says Girl Talk saved her daughter’s life, you are recharged to make it all work. Knowing that Girl Talk is really helping girls only reaffirms that I am doing exactly what I was put on Earth to do.

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AtlantaGymnasticsCenter.com 2011

Do you have a particular memory that you hold close to you heart where you saw firsthand the impact of Girl Talk?

One of my favorite memories was at our Project Inside Out camp a couple of years ago. The first day I noticed a very shy girl

who sat by herself at lunch and was too nervous to talk to the other girls. I found out later that afternoon from her mom that she was often ostracized at school, and this camp was an attempt to help her feel loved and build up her broken self-esteem.

The next day, I saw three girls introduce themselves to her and sit with her at lunch.

By the end of the week, this shy girl was in the midst of all the fun – singing, dancing and opening up about her experiences. She is now giving back by volunteering as a counselor this summer.

What is your biggest dream for Girl Talk?

I’m always dreaming for Girl Talk and my mission will be complete when every middle school girl has access to a Girl Talk chapter in her school or community. We will be launching a $5 million campaign in celebration of our 10th anniversary next year. I remember just how hard it was to get started early on – funding was by far the hardest. Beyond that, I hope to change the way a generation of young girls behave.

Behavior is that hardest thing to change, but by teaching the girls the importance of leadership, being kind and giving back, I believe we can change the way they treat each other. The real fruits of our labor will be when these middle school girls become mothers and model great behavior to their daughters.

For more about Girl Talk and it’s upcoming events and fundraisers, visit desiretoinspire.org.

Celebrating Outstanding Youth Volunteers NOMINATIONS DUE MONDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2011

4th Annual Please consider nominating a student living or going to school in metro Atlanta; who is under 20 years old; and, who deserves a salute for community service in the January ‘12 issue.

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

10 INtown | June 2011

1. Nominee: full name, age, grade and school, contact info 2. Nominator: your full name, relationship to nominee, contact info 3. Short paragraph describing why this nominee deserves recognition for community service. Include any actions, characteristics, projects, goals and areas of interest that will help illustrate your point

Email to: Wendy Binns, Wendy@AtlantaINtownPaper.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

FATHER’S DAY MUG

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While overall homeless rates in Georgia have gone down in the last few years, the recent recession and mortgage crisis have caused the percentage of homeless families to continue to rise, with families making up 25 percent of the homeless population. To make matters worse, Georgia is ranked 49th of states in the U.S. in preparedness for the care of homeless families.

Fortunately for some of Atlanta’s homeless families Intown, the Atlanta Children’s Shelter is there to help.

Founded in 1986 and located in the North Avenue Presbyterian Church, ACS provides free, quality day care and an accredited education program for some of Atlanta’s homeless children, as well as a variety of focused social services designed to break the cycle of homelessness within their families. Single mothers and their children make up the majority of the shelter’s clients with more than half of the families served suffering from a history of domestic violence.

What makes the Atlanta Children’s Shelter unique is its holistic approach to solving the issues that cause a family to become homeless in the first place, teaching

their after-care program remained in permanent housing for an entire year.

This year, the shelter celebrates 25 years of serving Atlanta’s homeless families with an expansion at their North Avenue facility to add an additional classroom as well as more space for family support programs.

They are also expanding into Gwinnett County through Rainbow Village, which provides housing and social services for homeless families there. sustainable skills to their clients, so they can become self-sufficient in the long term. As Tony Conway, the shelter’s Development Director puts it, “Social Services make the changes stick.”

And Atlanta Children’s Shelter delivers with a job track program that provides training and networking services to homeless parents and an after-care program that follows a homeless family for one year after they transition to permanent housing to help keep them there. As Ms. Zsamaria Griffin, a former shelter client puts it, “The name does not encompass everything they do.” In 2010, the shelter assisted 65 percent of their parent clients with finding jobs, and 100 percent of families enrolled in

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town 11

June 2011 | IN

ww

changes with EXCHANGEs

Three foreign exchange students and one host mom reflect on the year

By Wendy Binns, Publisher Homemade “welcome” signs bob around Hartsfield-Jackson Airport every August greeting wide-eyed foreign exchange students. They are cautiously stepping off the escalator to begin their year abroad. They have made long journeys from an array of countries – Czech Republic, China, France and Brazil to name a few – to study and develop their English in the United States.

This experience will make them wiser and more mature, but, for now, they look a little nervous and jet-lagged standing in the world’s busiest airport aside jumbo suitcases and their new families.

I asked Yanire Vilas from Galicia, Spain, Carolina Garza from Merida, Mexico and Sebastian Kraft from Frankfurt, Germany to give us their reflections about this year abroad. I should also mention that I’m one of Carolina’s host moms. She had two families – she spent the first semester with the Killenberg family and the second with us.

You can read 10-year-old Parker Killenberg’s account of being a host sister on this page.

Yanire, Carolina and Sebastian are part of more than a dozen exchange students who attended Grady High School in Midtown.

What were you thinking when you got off the airplane that first day in Atlanta?

Yanire: I was so nervous that I couldn’t think.

Carolina: I had a lot of emotions. I could feel I was staring something new. I could feel the American air. I was nervous and excited at the same time.

Sebastian: Damn, it’s really hot here!

seen before.

C: Nerve wracking. Crazy. But, I was happy. It was good.

S: Disorganized and strange because I did not know any people What new foods and restaurants do you like?

Y: Barbecue is my favorite American food and I love Subway!

C: I didn’t like a lot of things in Mexico, but here I’ve tried new things and like them.

Strawberries. Salmon. I really like to go to Osteria and Yogli Mogli.

S: Moe’s, Taco Mac and Mediterranean Grill.

What Grady tradition do you like the most?

Y: I am amazed with the wide arts program Grady has and of course all the sports, clubs, pep rallies...

C: I like Grady a lot. I like the GNN (Grady News Now) every Friday. They do a really good job – it’s fun the way they do it. All the games – soccer and football – are really fun.

S: GNN (Grady News Now).

Your favorite class?

Y: Musical theater and photography.

C: Probably, between art and triple threat (acting, dancing and singing class).

S: U.S. history

How would you describe your first day at Grady High?

Y: I was really lost and everything seemed really big and confusing but also very exciting GIFT because of all those new things I had never CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

Name one or two of your most fun times with new friends.

Y: Spring break in Seaside, Florida and prom!

C: We went sleigh riding in Piedmont Park. We had a Christmas Party with a lot of friends and a Halloween Party. Both were really fun. Wait – prom! Prom was the number one.

S: Prom

Exchange students Yanire Vilas and Sebastian Kraft pose for a photo on their way to prom.

Accessorize •Choose Paint Colors •Revive the Pieces you Own •Prepare your Home for Sale, Parties, Holidays, Etc. •Arrange Furniture for a Balanced Room •Start Fresh & Reinvent your Home •Provide a Finishing Touch to any Room.

What is a new word in your vocabulary?

Y: Ghetto C: Sprinkles S: Swag

Name some things you were scared to try or do, but you are glad you did.

Y: Auditioning for plays and ballet class.

C: Lacrosse. My recital at Grady. Well, coming here for one year – that counts? I was scared, but I did it.

S: In the beginning, I was scared to talk English in front of many people.

Name one way you have changed.

Y: My weight (just kidding). I am more confident and I feel I can do whatever I can dream of, because I’m not scared of trying new things.

C: I like to try new foods.

S: (I am) more confident and independent.

Bonding with Carolina

By Parker Killenberg On the day my exchange student, Carolina Garza Ramos, arrived from Mexico, I was so excited; I couldn’t wait to meet her. Carolina is from Merida, Mexico, a city near Cancun. She was in Atlanta for a year to study English was in the 10th grade at Grady High School in Midtown.

What will you tell people back home about America?

Y: America is just a bit of every other country!

C: Great people, great food, great culture.

S: The people in Atlanta are very polite and open-minded.

My friend Dana Persons is a coordinator for CIEE, Council on International Educational Exchange, which is how I personally became involved as a host parent.

I had never considered it, but after hearing so many students were looking for homes, I was convinced. The process basically entails some paperwork, completing a family profile, agreeing to a background check and participating in a home interview. Families are able to see profiles of students interested in the program, which is how the matching begins. The profiles also explain if there are allergies, dietary needs, like/dislike to pets, hobbies and other personal preferences.

In 2009, my husband and I were matched with a German boy, Leif Levermann, and this year with Carolina. We went from no children to becoming parents of teenagers – watching Glee, buying gallons of milk, assisting with history homework, learning Justin Bieber lyrics and playing ping-pong marathons.

Now, another school year has come to a close. Jumbo suitcases get repacked and return flights are made. Tearfully we send these brave teenagers away with great memories and new connections to another part of the world. Their adventures continue.

For information on exchange programs, visit ciee.org.

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First Person:

Parker Killebenberg, left, with her exchange sister, Carolina, and her twin sister Jordan in New York City.

As soon as Carolina arrived, she immediately took the role as older sister.

She was so sweet to my twin sister, Jordan, and me. We would go to the pool, play guitar, watch soccer games and play Carolina’s new favorite card game, Racko. We were both learning guitar, so we would choose new songs and learn them together.

Carolina’s first vacation with us was our big trip to New York. When we arrived at the Westin Hotel in Times Square, I was so excited to show her the city since I had been there before.

We took Carolina to her first Broadway show, Wicked, and ate at Alfredo’s, a restaurant in Little Italy. We also showed her the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. And, of course, we shopped!

One of things I loved about having a high school exchange student was that it allowed me to get a glimpse of life in high school. I attended her lacrosse games, musical theater performances, and registration for classes at Grady. I helped her shop for shoes to match her prom dress, and I got to see her in her beautiful prom dress.

Having Carolina as a high school exchange student was one of the best things ever. We had so much fun, and I can’t wait to visit Carolina in Mexico.

Parker Killenberg is a 5th grader at Morningside Elementary School in Atlanta. w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

Peachtree Battle Shopping Center JUNE 4-5, 2011 www.vahi.org/summerfest.html Artist Market - More than 220 artists! Media includes: painting, sculpture, jewelry, glass, textiles/fiber arts, photography and graphics.

Saturday, June 4 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Nathan Beaver 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Lera Lynn 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Grahams Number 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm The Whisky Gentry 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ed Roland & The Sweet Tea Project

Sunday, June 5 12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

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Ace Hardware Bank of America Baskin Robbins Burger King Café Lapin Cartridge World Chico’s Children’s & Prep Shop Cheyenne Grille European Alterations Famous Hair Festivity Flowers Atlanta For Eyes Optical Framers On Peachtree Frolic Boutique GNC Nutrition Gramercy Atelier H&F Bottle Shop Happy Feet

about Buckhead.

Come Live the Life.

H&F Bottle Shop Happy Feet Hollywood Tan Peachtree Battle Barbershop Izzy Maternity Publix Joe May Valet Richard’s Variety Store Jalisco’s Rite Aid Junko Hair Design Starbucks Keller Williams Talbots LaRo Jewelers Woo Skincare & Cosmetics Master Shoe Repair Zoës Kitchen Mint Julep Mori Luggage & Gifts Opening Soon nadeau furniture with a soul Maki Fresh--Sushi Nail Shadow Another Broken Egg Café Natural Body Spa Peachtree Road and Paper Affair Peachtree Battle Avenue Pasta Vino Peachtree Battle Antiques & Interiors

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June 2011 | IN

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web site address that arcs along the bottom.

2) Thenleash position belowHills thePark. dog parkthe areacopy of Peachtree logo: peachtreehillsvet.com

Pet Pick NILAH

Pet Briefs Downtown’s Der Biergarten has opened its new Dog Patio with outdoor tables, umbrellas and other pet-friendly amenities for your pooches at the lower level entrance. The restaurant and pub is at 300 Marietta St. derbiergarten.com.

Homeless cats living at Furkids, the largest cage-free, no-kill animal shelter in the Southeast, now have new chic, eco-friendly digs courtesy of volunteer architects and

Nilah came from an abusive home, and we think she deserves a new start and a better life. She is housebroken, loves toys and craves attention.

She is about 7 years old and a Rottweiler/Shepherd Mix. It wouldn’t be difficult to care for and love this dog. She can be adopted at PAWS Atlanta, 5287 Covington Highway Decatur, GA 30035. For more about PAWS and its programs, visit pawsatlanta.org.

You and your pet are invited to join the

High quality food, Society every Thursday Atlanta Humane from 5and to 10 p.m. in June for treats, evening toys, beds Canine Cocktail Hour at Hotel Indigo collarsinfor your pets.

Midtown.

There is no cover charge to attend, and there will be food and drink

The Society Pets at AHS will Privatespecials & group receive a portion of all food and beverage training classes sales.

Enjoy afor fantastic view of Peachtree your dog & as you.

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Pets Are Loving Support (PALS) monthly bingo games are a staple in the community 3) Thenand inhelp a bolder look:for the organization, raise money the June 8 edition is extra special – 1186 N.butHighland Avenue Women Bingo! Come dressed as AtlantaDesigning GA 30306 your favorite Sugarbaker Design employee 404-892-5900 and enjoy laughs with host Bubba D. Licious assorted friends. The event is at Jungle contractors at The Beck Group (beckgroup. email: and Info@HighlandPet.com nightclub at 2115 Faulkner Road. Doors com). The new “Cat-O-Miniums” were www.HighlandPet.com open at 6:30 p.m. and the first number is installed in April. furkids.org called at 7:45 p.m. Reservations can be made at palsatlanta.org.

As a token of appreciation to the supportive 4) Please place a simple border neighborhood from which the practice around the ad.

Last month’s K9 Pet Cotillion at Piedmont takes its name, Peachtree Hills Animal Bark raised more than $13,500 for Pets Hospital coordinated with Park Pride and Loving (PALS).

For more the Peachtree Hills Civic Association to PleaseAre send theSupport ad proof directly to information, visit palsatlanta.org. fund the installation of a fountain with a Toni Berry: Toni@HighlandPet.com dog watering station in the popular off-

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town 15

June 2011 | IN

INtown Runaround Tim Sullivan

Justin Farmer has his eye on your BeltLine Sherwood Forest resident and WSB-TV news anchor Justin Farmer served as the ceremonial starter for the inaugural BeltLine Race Series 5k at Tanyard Creek last month.

Next up for the series is the BeltLine Southwest 5k on July 16, which features the historic West End and Westview neighborhoods. And on Dec. 3 there will be a Peachtree qualifying 10k that covers the stretch of BeltLine between DeKalb Avenue and Piedmont Park.

I caught up with Farmer for an interview after the race.

In addition to being the ceremonial starter for the inaugural BeltLine Race Series 5k, you are a member of the planning

committee. How did you get involved with the project? (run.BeltLine.org) Since coming to Channel 2 in 2008, I have been enthusiastically following the Beltine’s progress. Running along the BeltLine just seems obvious and I was thrilled to help with the running series.

The turnout was awesome and the course was really interesting – akin to a cross country race. The tech shirt was top notch!

Are you a runner yourself?

I do like to run and I eagerly watched construction of the section near Tanyard Creek Park. I think my wife and I were among the very first on that section of BeltLine. It’s fantastic – the bridges and how it meanders along Tanyard Creek.

Ever do a broadcast where it’s all business on top – suit jacket and tie for the camera, but the bottom half is ready for a quick transition to a post-work run?

Running shoes, yes. Or if it’s a really big show, sometimes I go with cleats. Just in case.

Who would win a footrace between you and Jovita Moore?

Hey, seriously, Jovita is in shape! She does some sort of pre-dawn boot camp.

Don’t mess with her.

Do you listen to music while you run? If so, what’s currently in rotation?

If I’m running to release stress, I go with symphony music. If running to sort of get high on life, I go with something rock ‘n roll, more modern than classic. I really like [Internet radio site] Pandora.

I’ll try that. I’ve decided that running to podcasts of [anchors] John Pruitt and Monica Pearson is informative, but not great for my split times. What other charities are you involved with?

Literacy Volunteers of Atlanta, The Georgia Star program for the state’s top students are two of my favorites.

You and I share an alma mater in Boston College and I’m not going to say who is older, but in 1991 one of us was a senior preparing for a lifetime of nightly TV appearances and gigantic billboards. The other guy was a freshman wondering why he ever thought History of Architecture would be an easy elective…

You took that? Well, I took art history just to avoid math. There was some quality sleep happening in that class. You know [Falcons Quarterback] Matt Ryan is another BC alum in Atlanta, so it has been fun to watch him play.

I love to run along the Charles River when I’m up in Boston for a visit. Do you think the BeltLine will be the exercise destination of choice in Atlanta for years to come?

Yes, I am confident the BeltLine will be the place for pre and post-workouts, running, walking, socializing. I used to live in Dallas and the Katy Trail, much smaller in scope than the BeltLine, really attracts an active crowd.

Tim Sullivan heads up the Cabbagetown Running Club and is a Buckhead business owner. Look for his column every month and visit his blog at timmydaddy.com

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Everyone is affected by autism Dr. Ami Klin One in every 110 children in the U.S. has autism. With this staggering statistic, it can be said that everyone is affected by autism and related developmental disorders in some way.

Despite the rising rate of children with the disorder, many parents are still confused on how to detect early signs of autism, especially in very young children. However, early diagnosis is critical to ensure a child receives proper intervention and treatment as early as possible.

While symptoms of autism may not be visible even to the most experienced clinician until a child reaches the age of two, autism is diagnosed by a lack of common developmental behaviors.

Warning signs include: By six months of age: Lack of smiling or joyful expressions • By nine months: Not demonstrating backand-forth exchange of sounds, facial expressions or face-to-face play • By 12 months: Lack of eye contact when his or her name is called; not using gestures such as pointing, reaching or

•

• • •

waving; not playing social games By 24 months: Not using independent, two-word meaningful phrases By three years of age: Not following two to three step directions At any age: Demonstrating a loss of speech, babbling or lack of social skills, particularly when the child is young

If parents suspect their child has any of the above signs, they should ask their pediatrician for a referral to see a developmental pediatrician, a child psychologist or a pediatric neurologist as soon as possible. There is a saying, “if you have met one child with autism, you have met one child with autism.” In other words, every child with autism is so unique in their characteristics, behaviors and needs that they must be assessed individually in order to diagnose them properly. Effective treatments capitalize on the individual child’s strengths while addressing the child’s specific challenges or needs.

Although no medical treatments for autism exist yet, some psychopharmacological treatments can be helpful to older children, particularly if they show irritability, aggression or other severe behavioral challenges, or symptoms

of anxiety or depression. Other treatments use social communication and behavioral methods to augment their skills and diminish their symptoms. By diagnosing and intervening early, this will help shape the process of learning and guide children to learn about and enjoy aspects of the world that will propel them further in the development of social understanding, language and communication.

At the Marcus Autism Center, a non-profit organization that focuses on autism and autism spectrum disorders, we specialize in programs designed to help children adjust and adapt early in life. We focus on opportunities to help children with autism and their families meet daily challenges through our center-based and community-based educational programs.

By using techniques such as our innovative eye-tracking technology, we are able to further uncover information that can be vital to help diagnose children as early as possible. With any diagnosis, know there is hope for children with autism, thanks to the resources and specialized care now available to families.

Dr. Klin is Director of Marcus Autism Center and a Morningside resident. For more information visit, marcus.org.

Health & Wellness Briefs

The Men’s Health & Wellness Center is holding their 4th Annual Men’s Health EXPO in support of its mission to educate and encourage men to make healthier lifestyle choices. The event will be held on Saturday, June 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta.

Participants are encouraged to spend the day at the EXPO where breakfast and lunch will be available. The EXPO is free for participants, $25 (refundable) to hold appointment reservations. All registration and information inquiries available at menshealthandwellness.org

Atlanta Streets Alive! returns to Downtown and the Old Fourth Ward on Saturday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday, June 25, from 4 to 8 p.m. The route includes a 2.3-mile, car-free stretch of the future Atlanta Streetcar line along Auburn, Edgewood and the Fairlie Poplar district.Kickoff is at Woodruff Park both dates. Atlanta Streets w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

Alive is free to all participants. Some will enjoy the route by bicycling, strolling, skating, or just people-watching. Others will participate in free group events such as tango, yoga, hula hooping, break dancing and other physical activities along the route. For more information about all the events, visit atlantastreetsalive.com.

The City of Decatur Active Living Department has partnered with Kroger to offer free Supermarket Tours led by a trained nutritionist. The nutritionist 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 in June and July on Tuesday mornings at 9 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. The tours are free and participants will receive a free gift. Tours are limited to six participants each and RSVP is required.

Register today by emailing cheryl.burnette@ decaturga.com or call (678) 553-6541.

BTB Fitness was one among the first to bring CrossFit to Atlanta. Now, the locally owned gym is introducing CrossFit Kids.

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June 2011 | IN

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This fitness program is geared and designed for the specific developmental needs of kids.

At CrossFit Kids, they run, jump, squat, pull, push and climb – utilizing movements that children use in everyday life to play, do chores and carry their backpacks properly. The program is designed to be universal – perfect for any committed individual regardless of experience. BTB Fitness is a locally owned CrossFit affiliate with three Atlanta locations – Ponce/Highland, Buckhead and Vinings.

For more information, visit btbfitness.com or call (404) 468-0100.

Urban Body Fitness will celebrate its 9th anniversary on Saturday, June 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. with a party featuring food from Loco Luna. See the ad on next page for more information.

The SCAN Foundation’s fifth annual Save Our Skin 5k Walk & Run is set for Saturday, June 25, 8 a.m. at Perimeter Place.

There will be skin cancer checks, food, entertainment and more. Register online at SCANFoundation.com or at active.com.

Registration is $20 or $25 after June 22.

The Green Dash 5K is set for Saturday, June 18, at 9 p.m. in Piedmont Park. The race benefits the expansion of the park and registration closes on June 10 at 11:59 p.m.

There will be virtual goodie bags, cash prizes for age group winners, a Kid¹s Zone with entertainment and a 100-yard dash, a green market and post-race nosh at Grindhouse Killer Burgers on Piedmont Avenue.

For more information and to register, visit active.com.

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Health & environment

Understanding the factors that may lead to chronic health complaints

By Elizabeth Patrick Earth Share of Georgia If you suffer from chronic headaches, migraines, asthma, allergies, chronic sinus stuffiness, joint pain, chronic fatigue, or any of a number of other vague symptoms and your doctor cannot find a medical cause, your environment may be the culprit.

Homes, schools, workplaces, and virtually any indoor environment

can harbor chemical and biological pollutants that can lead to chronic health complaints. Understanding your environment and the factors that can lead to symptoms can be your first step toward living a healthier life.

great eco-friendly cleaning products on the market. Toxic chemicals in the home can be eliminated by making thoughtful choices in the supermarket after educating yourself about hazards in common consumer products.

Getting on the road to environmental health: 1) Buy an Air Filter: Exposure to indoor air pollution from solid fuels has been linked to many diseases, in particular pneumonia among children and chronic respiratory diseases among adults. Select an air purifier and vacuum unit with high-efficiency filters such as micro filter or HEPA media, good suction, and sealed construction. The American Lung Association recommends asking for test data from manufacturers to determine the quantity and size of dust particles captured (e.g. 96 percent at 1.0 micron or 99.97 percent at 0.3 micron).

3) Eat healthy local organic sustainable foods: Food that is grown and harvested locally is usually given more time to ripen, increasing its nutrient value. Eating sustainably-grown crops reduces the potential human health and environmental consequences of pesticides. The greater the distance food has to travel to the consumer, the greater the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

2) Switch out your household cleaning products: Many household cleaning products are harsh and may cause headaches and difficulty breathing. Switch out your regular cleaning products with the many

4) Support Environmental Charities: Help environmental charities do the work for our environment and ultimately our health. It is important to support these environmental organizations that preserve our clean air, clean water and preserve our land.

EarthShare Georgia (www.earthsharega.org) raises funds locally to support more than sixty leading environmental organizations.

5)Bottle controversy: Drink out of steel bottles (for example, Sigg bottles) instead of plastic. Plastic bottles can leech the chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) into your body, causing health concerns.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical produced in large quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which can be linked to health problems particularly in children and pregnant women, according to the National Institutes of Health.

For more information, visit earthsharega.org

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June 2011 | IN

LEADING THE CHARGE

Author Emily Ellison honored for co-founding Atlanta Girls’ School

By John Schaffner, BuckheadView Buckhead resident Emily Ellison has had a successful career as a professional writer – first as an award-winning journalist at the Atlanta Constitution in the early 1980s and then as author of three successful fiction books, editor of an anthology and even writer of a few children’s books.

She also recently completed a five-year stint as president and executive director of Literacy Action Inc., a 40-year-old Atlanta nonprofit organization that teaches undereducated adults basic literacy skills and provides workplace training.

But she exudes a special level of pride when she talks about co-founding the Atlanta Girls’ School in Buckhead – the only school grades six through 12 in Atlanta just

20 INtown | June 2011

for girls. And, she claims the writing she is most proud of is the “Founders’ Charge” which she wrote for the school’s first graduation ceremony in May 2004 and has been read every year since at graduation.

It was read again by Ellison and the school’s other co-founder Brooke Weinmann at the school’s graduation at the Carter Center last month.

Now Ellison, the visionary and cofounder, has returned to Atlanta Girls School this past March as its Director of Advancement and her fourth career as primarily a fund-raiser, as she describes it. She returns to the school as it enters its second year of its second decade educating and developing young girls of metro Atlanta.

Last month, Ellison was one of 10 honorees at the 28th annual YWCA “Salute

to Women of Achievement” for being cofounder of the Girls’ School, located at 3254 Northside Parkway in Buckhead, and her continued commitment to the one-of-a-kind Atlanta institution.

Ellison, who turns 60 in July, said she may return someday to writing books, but for now her passion is once again centered on the Girls’ School. “I loved writing novels,” she said, but “it is lonely work. You lead this cloistered environment where you kind of have to try to figure out to turn it off and turn it on at the beginning and end of the day and how you can carry on a conversation after you have been talking to fictional characters all day.”

She is the author of three books of fiction (Alabaster Chambers, First Light and The Picture Makers) and the co-editor of an anthology of contemporary American literature (Our Mutual Room: Modern Literary Portraits of the Opposite Sex). She has also written children’s books.

Among her writings, Ellison did a couple of children’s books – “one was more like a tool. I wrote it when my little niece and nephew were out of school and I read how in the summer months they lose so much, she explained. “If they go for these three months they lose everything, but if they keep reading, they will retain a lot of that information. So I developed this little tool for kids to keep reading and retain that information.”

When her child was growing up, she read about the importance of reading around children and produced this little journal for parents to write down books that they read to their children and make notes on them.

“With our daughter, I was thinking about all the hundreds or thousands of books we read and how dear they were to us.”

But she doesn’t say that writing the children’s books really had anything to do with her interests in founding the Girls’ School. “What led me to it was reading a Sunday New York Times Magazine cover story on what happens to adolescent girls.” She said it was in the summer before daughter Elli went into the fourth grade.

The research in the article pointed to the benefits to the girls if “they are in a single gender environment during their adolescent years. They are not worried about what the boys think of them. They are more apt to be leaders, to participate in athletics…all those things,” she explained.

“That’s what I want for Elli, because she was so smart and had so many ambitions, I thought she could conquer the world.

What they said was that girls become anti-intellectual at a certain age and just start tamping down. All those things they imagined they could be often go away,” she explained. “They lose their confidence and lose their voice.”

She looked around and there was no girls’ school in Atlanta, although there had been earlier in the city. “Almost all of the most-prestigious, well-thought-of schools

Emily Ellison was honored at the 28th annual YWCA “Salute to Women of Achievement” for being co-founder of the Girls’ School.

are girls’ schools and boys’ schools. There used to be that system here. There was Boys’ High and Girls’ High, Washington Seminary, North Avenue Presbyterian and Westminster Schools also was separated by gender in its early days,” she said.

She decided there needed to be a girls’ school in Atlanta. “For whatever reason, I decided I had to make this happen. I jokingly said I have never been prepared for any job in my life. Okay, I can do this somehow.”

Staff member Kirsten Beard hosts an after-school party for student ambassadors in the school’s music room.

She hooked up with The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools in the summer of 1997, who helped her in planning and told her Atlanta was the only city of its size in the country at the time without an all-girls’ school.

A friend at the Foundation Center in downtown Atlanta told her “Emily there is money out there for girls’ and women’s issues. If you can make it happen I think you can get it funded.” That woman also introduced Ellison to Brooke Weinmann.

They created a board, did the legal work, raised a lot of money and the rest is history.

They opened the doors in 2000 with about 100 students and now are up to about 220. “We intentionally will never be a large school,” she said. The maximum goal is around 300 students.

Ellison said, it was “a labor of love that took on a life of its own.” She served as board chair for four years, remains a member of the board. Most importantly, she remains committed and passionate about the school and the girls who prepare for life and their dreams there every day.

“As much as I hope I will write again, I love that collaborative effort,” Ellison stated, and being part of something making a difference and giving back to the community.

To read the full version of this article and for other news and commentary by John Schaffner, visit the BuckheadView at buckheadview.blogspot.com.

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June 2011 | IN

the Studio ARTS & CULTURE

SOUTHERN READS

By Collin Kelley, Editor

Southern literature is alive and well and here are interviews with four authors with brand new novels keeping the tradition alive. Tayari Jones – author of the award-winning novel Leaving Atlanta set during the Atlanta Child Murders – is back with Silver Sparrow. Karen White follows up her bestseller On Folly Beach with The Beach Trees set during Hurricane Katrina. Terra Elan McVoy, the program director for the Decatur Book Festival, has a new young adult novel, After the Kiss, and Man Martin time warps back to 1960s Florida with his picaresque new book, Paradise Dogs. Grab a cool drink, one of these books and curl up by the pool.

Author of Silver Sparrow What was your inspiration for Silver Sparrow?

I have always been intrigued by the idea of “half” sisters.

I have two sisters with whom I share a father, but we each have different mothers.

I was out with some friends one night and we were discussing one of those cases you hear about – a man dies and the other grieving widow shows up with her stairstep kids. One of my girlfriends said, ‘You know, he had to have some help from the inside. You cannot get local bigamy off the ground unless one of the women is willing to work with you.” It was all I could do to keep from running out of the bar to get home and start writing. The first line, “My father, James Witherspoon, is a

bigamist,” jumped into my head and I sent it to myself on my Blackberry so I wouldn’t forget it.

Why did you tell the story through the perspective of the two daughters, Dana and Chaurisse?

I don’t have a “why” for artistic directions. The story felt incomplete without both girls’ perspectives or without their mothers’. Like Chaurisse, I have a close relationship with my father.

I had such fun writing their scenes together, and in order to do it, I was able to tap into my own inner-girl – and think of life before I understood my parents as people with layers and complications. At

the same time, I am a daughter in a family that really values boy-children. My parents were not overtly chauvinistic, but I lived in a space where many girls find themselves – just sort of there.

courtship story is our first encounter with propaganda. I know that I, for one, can recite the way my parents met – at an NAACP meeting in 1963 – as if I was right there hiding in my mother’s purse.

You use the girls’ voices to tell the stories of their parents, relating events that happened before they were even born. Why did you choose this unusual technique?

I think we all tell stories about things we could not have possibly witnessed. When stories are handed down we feel that we have the authority to tell them. We take what we were told and let our imagination fill in the details. I often joke that our parents’

Like your previous two books, Leaving Atlanta and The Untelling, Silver Sparrow is set in Atlanta in the 1980s.

Sometimes I wonder if my imagination just lives in Atlanta. When the story comes to me, the characters tend to be hanging out in all my old stomping grounds. Atlanta has been such a gift to my work. The “new” and urban South is everchanging, but we still wear our history on our sleeves.

Author of Paradise Dogs

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Tell us about the genesis of Paradise Dogs.

It’s interesting you use the word “genesis.” In a way, the story is about this crazy desire we have to return to Paradise.

It’s like we look around and see how screwed up everything is and think, there must have been a time when it was still screwed down.

And if we just work hard enough, we can make everything perfect again. Unbungle all our old bungles. Of course, usually we just create a new set of problems.

Which writers influenced you the most?

On different days, I’d give different answers to that. For Paradise Dogs, my biggest influence was P.G. Wodehouse. I wanted to capture the zany spirit of his novels. But I also wanted a sadder, deeper undertow. My ambition as a writer is to be as funny and sad as I can at the same time.

Like your first book, Days of the Endless Corvette, Paradise Dogs is set in the South. This time in Florida instead of Georgia. Do you mind being labeled a

Jones signs her novel June 8, 7:15 p.m. at the Decatur Library. georgiacenterforthebook.org.

Southern Writer?

I don’t mind. I don’t really consider myself that way, though. What I really am primarily is a humorist. If I’d been born in New York or Paris, I think I still would have been a writer. What motivates me isn’t locale. It’s just that I see the world this cock-eyed way and want other people to see it that way, too.

There’s an autobiographical element in Paradise Dogs, too.

My father was an alcoholic who ran a realty business down in Ocala. He was bigger than life in some ways. When he proposed to my mother, he borrowed a dozen loose diamonds and poured them in her lap and told her to take her pick. She couldn’t refuse. That’s the starting point of my story. Of course in my version, he loses the diamonds.

After you came out with Endless Corvette, was there a lot of pressure on you to write another book?

Yes, especially from my readers. “When is your next book coming out? When is your next book coming out? Are you working on another book?” They meant well, but it made me feel very anxious. Now when anyone asks me if I’m working on another book, I just say no. t makes things simpler.

For more about Man Martin, visit manmartin.net. w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

Author of The Beach Trees What is The Beach

Trees about?

It’s about a woman whose younger sister disappears and, while searching for her, stumbles upon many secrets in her family’s past. The story is bookended by Hurricane Camille in 1969 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Like On Folly Beach, the book has elements of historical fiction.

When did you start on the book?

I wrote a version of it in 1998, but put it away because I could never find a publisher. Then Katrina happened and it was so personal to me. I went to Tulane in New Orleans and my father is from Biloxi, so it was the hurricane and the destruction that finally put The Beach Trees on track.

It sounds like you wrote the version that has been published pretty quickly.

The story already had good bones, so it took about five months and part of that was research on Hurricane Katrina.

How and when do you write?

My best time to write is in the morning.

I don’t answer emails and deal with anything else while I’m writing. I have to shut out the world. But I’ve also found that I can get work done at the beauty salon, while I’m having my hair worked on. I just bring the laptop along with me.

Who inspired you to write?

My maternal grandmother and father instilled stories. My grandmother was obsessed with Hollywood and wanted to be movie star. She was a wonderful storyteller, a character. My father was a huge reader, and that inspired me. You can’t be a writer without being reader.

What about your influences?

They started out as Margaret Mitchell and Pat Conroy, but now I’m really inspired by Kathryn Stockett and Helen Simonson.

What’s next for you?

The third book in my Charleston mystery series, The Strangers on Montague Street, will be out this fall.

And I’m working on another novel now.

Oh, I just realized I left my laptop at the salon! Thank goodness they know me there!

For more, visit karen-white.com.

Author of After the Kiss What is After the Kiss about?

Plot-wise, After the Kiss is about two different girls – Becca and Camille – who end up kissing the same boy – Alec – and how that moment changes all three characters’ lives forever. Theme-wise, After the Kiss is about how to find balance in your own heart: keeping love from coming in so far that it destroys you, but also not shutting it out so much that you destroy yourself.

When do you write?

When I was working several other jobs on top of trying to be a writer, I wrote just whenever I could.

Sometimes it would be early in the morning, sometimes late at night. Sometimes I could only write an hour at a time, and other times it’d be in a nine-hour stretch. Because that was my training ground, I still sort of write that way.

Some days I will write very little, at whatever time I get the chance, and other days I’ll just coop myself up in the house for 12 hours.

I’m trying to find a rhythm though now, and that seems to be turning into taking care of non-writing stuff in the morning, and then writing in the afternoon/early evening.

Who are your influences?

I’ve literally been reading since I was four years old, so it’s hard to tell exactly who’s influenced me at what point. And I truly believe that every writer you read influences you in some way. But, starting from my earliest reading and moving up to this moment, I’ll say Robert Louis Stevenson, Margaret Wise Brown, Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, Ann Martin (Babysitters’ Club), Stephen King, Dean Koontz, Gertrude Stein, William Faulkner, T.S. Eliot, Ezra Pound, John Irving, Alice Munro, Lorrie Moore, Richard Yates, Lauren Myracle, Laurie Halse Anderson and David Levithan.

Do you consider yourself a Southern Writer?

I think I think of myself as a young adult writer before anything else, but mostly I just think of myself as a writer, period. That said, I grew up in the South, and my books are all placed in the South (specifically Decatur and the greater Atlanta area), and certainly those places have a significanst, purposeful presence in my books. The issues of Southern Literature though – race, class, gender, history, etc. – aren’t as prevalent in my books as I think they probably ought to be to qualify for that title.

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town 23

June 2011 | IN

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

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

Visual Arts & Museums

cdc.gov/museum

Far From Home: The paintings in the exhibition at Marcia Wood Gallery are the result of a 2,000-mile journey that Chicago-based artist Don Pollack made on a bicycle from Springfield, Illinois, to Washington, D.C. Opens June 2.

Admission is free. marciawoodgallery.com

Metronome: In this exhibit at Whitespace Gallery, artist Michele Schuff explores the perception of time and how we measure life’s passing. Opens June 10. Admission is free. whitespace814.com

Off the Beaten Path: Violence, Women and Art: The works in this exhibit at Global Health Odyssey Museum address the issues of violence against women around the world and their basic human rights to a safe and secure life. Opens June 6.

Free!

Jack and the Beanstalk

Environmental Services: Paint Shed Showcase: Boston-based conceptual artist Douglas Weathersby owns and operates a cleaning and repair company, and his jobs double as subject matter for the photographs, videos and vinyl wraps in this exhibit at Solomon Projects. Closes June 11. Admission is free. solomonprojects. com Immortal: This exhibit at Jackson Fine Art features works by Vee Speers, who was inspired by society’s obsession with delaying death and aging to create her photographs of naked, beautiful youths. Closes June 18. Admission is free. jacksonfineart.com The Haunting Hudson River Valley: The landscapes in this exhibit at Emily Amy Gallery are loosely based on views of the Hudson River Valley that artist Michael Abrams remembers from his childhood. Closes June 18. Admission is

free. emilyamygallery.com Jessica Jackson Hutchins: The Important Thing About a Chair: This exhibit at Atlanta Contemporary Art Center features artwork by acclaimed American assemblage artist Jessica Jackson Hutchins, whose works make reference to religious narratives of conception, communion and death. Closes June 19. $3 to $5. thecontemporary.org Affinity, Vision and Difference: View the selection of works in this exhibit from SCAD Atlanta’s permanent collection by outstanding women artists – all of whom are SCAD alumni.

Closes June 30. Free! scad.edu/atlanta Tale of Two Cities: This exhibit at Anne Irwin Fine Art features works that offer the artists’ perceptions of two of the greatest cities in the world – Paris, France, and Atlanta. Closes July 1.

Admission is free. anneirwinfineart.com Antony and Cleopatra

Slave Cabins: The Architecture of Enslavement: This exhibition by acclaimed photographer Curtis Graves at Auburn Avenue Research Library examines plantation architecture, particularly the living quarters of enslaved Africans. Open daily.

Free! afpls.org/aarl Samsara: Alan Caomin Xie, an Atlanta-based artist from China, examines the Buddhist concept of samsara (or metempsychosis) and its relation to September 11 in his works at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia. Open Tuesday through Saturday. $1 to $5. mocaga.org

Performing Arts Double Falsehood: A tale of romance, madness and betrayal, this tragi-comedy at New American Shakespeare Tavern is believed to be an adaptation of a lost play by Shakespeare and is also thought to be based on Cervantes’ “Don Quixote.” June 2 through June 12. $12 to $20. shakespearetavern.com Slaughter Camp: When a homicidal maniac terrorizes a theatre camp, the result is this musical at Dad’s Garage punctuated by buckets of blood washing across the stage. June 2 through June 25. $12 to $23. dadsgarage.com Concerts in the Garden: This annual outdoor music series at the Atlanta Botanical Garden kicks off with a concert by Jonny Lang featuring special guest Moreland & Arbuckle. June 3. $37. atlantabotanicalgarden.org Jazz on the Lawn: Unwind as you listen to live music performed by some of the finest jazz artists in the Southeast at these outdoor concerts on the lush grounds of Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. June 3 and June 17. $15 to $20. callanwolde.org Tape: Stephen Belber’s suspenseful, high-stakes play presented by Pinch ‘n’ Ouch Theatre at 7 Stages follows an on-the-rise filmmaker who meets up with a former hometown pal who never let go of an incident

PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 27

24 INtown | June 2011

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I have the beach in my head and it comes out on canvas a lot. This is a good thing, because I can rarely ever get away to enjoy the real thing. Sweeping streaks of sand and sky and colors where marshes glow in the afternoon bring out the beach boy in me. I even like sand in my shoes because, like tenderness from a sunburn, it keeps the beach with you just that much longer.

Growing up in southern California, I never thought I’d live anywhere away from the ocean, but here I am landlocked in Atlanta. So to exercise my memories I recreate my favorite beaches in paint. Dog Island, Florida, Sapalo Island, Georgia and Laguna Beach, California all take shape in my work. Sometimes I’ll paint from a photo, sometimes from memory, but always from an indelible impression. The proof that I’m not completely off my board is my growing clientele of collectors from all across the country.

I am often asked by other artists to help guide them to the “best market” for their art.

My answer is always the same: your work can sell anywhere as long as the viewer can relate to the subject and you don’t smell bad.

Your highest compliment is when someone tells you that your work reminds them of... (fill in the blank). You have captured their imagination just as the art you created captured yours. Personally I’m lucky because nearly everybody likes the beach. But we need to be realistic and in step with the times to be successful as artists.

Recently, I was interviewed by Alyson Stanfield for a program called, “Artist Conspiracy.” Based in Colorado, Alyson is the author of I’d Rather be in the Studio!

She teaches workshops such as “No Excuses Art Marketing,” “Nail your Artist Statement,” and “Website Makeover.”

At first I worried that Alyson would be kind of like Tony Robbins only prettier.

But it turns out that she’s more like Martha Stewart for artist careers, which is just right because she somehow finds the obvious solutions we missed in a way that seems so pleasant we just want to give her flowers or forgive any criminal infractions. Alyson is a former assistant to a U.S. Senator, museum curator and educator. Of course, like Martha, Alyson has a virtual art expert army at her disposal with one key difference being that they are not scared of her. Just check out the “partners” page on her website.

This summer I’ve already got my calendar marked to see Chelsea Handler at the Chastain Amphitheater on June 10 because I think we are probably soulmates who just haven’t met yet. But as an artist or an artist with lots of summer visitors expected, there is a virtual smorgasbord of art events to enjoy.

Summer art shows and festivals I recommend: June 4 – 6:

Virginia Highland Summerfest This is one of my favorite events even though it wears me out from walking, talking and shopping among 200 artists. vahi.org/summerfest June 26 – Sept. 11:

Radcliffe Bailey at the High Museum This is the premiere of Atlanta artist “Radcliffe Bailey: Memory as Medicine” including sculpture, paintings, works on paper, glass and found objects over a 25 year period. high.org July 23 - 24:

Festival on Ponce This new art and craft event will be held in the lovely Olmsted Linear Parks along Ponce de Leon Avenue in the tony Druid Hills neighborhood. festivalonponce.com Aug. 27 – 28:

Grant Park Summer Shade Festival My favorite part is the “corks and forks” but the art and music is great, too! gpconservancy.org You won’t see me wandering the beach this summer unless you can get inside my head, which I do not recommend. But I will continue to kick up the sand to search for talent worth soaking up.

Patrick Dennis is an artist, gallery owner and President of the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces. He lives in Atlanta. Email: Patrick@affps.com

* Subject to change.

26 INtown | June 2011

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 involving a mutual high school girlfriend. Closes June 5. $20. pnotheatre.org.

Madama Butterfly: This signature concert presentation by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, featuring glorious writing, a celebrated score and spot-on casting, vividly underscore’s Puccini’s immortal story of an ill-fated marriage. June 9 through June 12. $20 to $78. atlantasymphony.org Jack and the Beanstalk: What happens when you combine some magic beans, a beanstalk, a giant and a host of characters from other favorite fairy tales? Find out in this one-man tour de “farce” at the Center for Puppetry Arts. Closes June 12. puppet.org The Great American Trailer Park Musical: David Nehls’ and Betsy Kelso’s musical at OnStage

Atlanta takes audiences on an adventure to glorious Armadillo Acres, where there’s a new tenant wreaking havoc all over the trailer park.

Opens June 17. $10 to $20. onstageatlanta.com Here’s to the Men We Appreciate, Honor and Love: This concert event presented by Giwayen Mata at the Southwest Fulton Arts Center is filled with African-inspired song, dance and prose and tells the stories of the men in women’s lives. June 19. $25. giwayenmata.org Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this musical parable presented by Theater of the Stars at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. June 21 through June 26. $25 to $60. theaterofthestars.com Antony and Cleopatra: Politics and passions

Callanwolde Music Festival Returns The grounds of the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center will be swinging again this summer as the annual Jazz on the Lawn series begins June 3. The series showcases a lineup of Atlanta’s jazz artists with a mix of classic and contemporary jazz, swing, fusion, Latin and blues. Bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy these special concerts under the stars

Friday, June 3 Callanwolde opens its 2011 series with Atlanta’s favorite saxophone artist Nick Longo. His powerful style, amazing solos and his ensemble of top jazz musicians create a lively, energetic opening night performance.

Friday, June 17 Marsha DuPree, a beautifully skilled jazz vocalist, is known for her sweet soul cabaret and musical review specialties. A lead female singer in the Southeast, she presents a soulful fusion of jazz, swing, blues and gospel styles as she fronts a five-piece jazz ensemble, The Sweet Soul Jazz Masters.

Friday, July 8 Multi-talented singer-songwriter

Lindsay Appel blends pop, rock and blues to create a sound that is all her own. A resident of Atlanta, Appel was the Creative Loafing Reader’s Pick for the Best-Local SingerSongwriter 2008, and she has built an avid fan base around the Atlanta area.

Friday, July 29 Composer and jazz keyboard artist Madoca has performed internationally and headlined many jazz venues in Atlanta. She teams up with The Prince Project to create an expressive, passionate performance – a mix of fusion, funk, Latin and contemporary jazz styles.

Friday, Aug. 12 Vocalist Gwen Hughes swings with a mix of elegant jazz, earthy blues and a little rock ‘n’ roll. Her band, The Retro Jazz Kats, blend all of these influences seamlessly to create a completely memorable evening of music.

Tickets are $15 advance purchase online or $20 at the door at ticketleap.com. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to Callanwolde’s indoor courtyard. Parking is free and on-site.

For more information visit callanwolde.org.

collide in Shakespeare’s tragedy of the Roman warrior Marc Antony and the enigmatic Cleopatra, presented by Georgia Shakespeare at the Conant Performing Arts Center. Opens June 23. $12 to $45. gashakespeare.org 2011 Harrower Summer Opera Workshop Scenes: Participants in this workshop at Georgia State University will perform scenes from a variety of operatic works at these concerts at the Kopleff Recital Hall. June 24 through June 26. $10 to $20. music.gsu.edu A Sleeping Country: Melanie Marnich’s romantic comedy presented by Essential Theatre at Actor’s Express tells the story of a woman who travels to Italy looking for help with her insomnia. This play is part of the 2011 Essential Play Festival. Opens June 29. $10 to $23. essentialtheatre.com.

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28 INtown | June 2011

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A Look Back Ann Boutwell

Laughing Skull comedy club gaining national recognition

By Ty Collins

June 1, 1882: George Washington Adair posted a real estate notice in Atlanta’s local newspapers inviting potential buyers to view lots in Grant Park. His target market were families interested in building permanent homes in a healthy community. Adair also enticed interested parties with free lemonade and free conveyance – the transfer ownership documentation of land from one party to another. Since 1882, many homes have been built in the Grant Park neighborhood as revealed in Historic Grant Park, a new title added to Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series. See more about the book at AtlantaINtownPaper.com.

June 12, 1939: Smith College awarded Gone With the Wind author Margaret Mitchell an honorary master of arts degree. Mitchell’s Smith College citation can be found on the fifth floor of the Downtown Atlanta-Fulton County Library at Margaret Mitchell Square.

June 18, 1983: Varsity Drive-In founder Frank Gordy died at his home on Piedmont Road at the age of 79. In 1928, the Georgia Tech dropout combined two great American institutions – fast food and automobiles. The restaurant originally opened as the Yellow Jacket on Luckie Street and Hemphill Avenue before moving to the corner of Spring Street and North Avenue, where it became the Varsity two years later. The enterprise has since expanded to Athens, Kennesaw, Gwinnett County and Alpharetta. The Varsity, Jr., located in northeast Atlanta, on Lindberg Drive was the only other location of the chain to offer curbside service. The Varsity, Jr. closed last August after more than 40 years on Lindberg Drive.

June 19, 1942: The Atlanta Zoo (now Zoo Atlanta) acquired its first lowland gorilla – a 30-pound male named Willie B. after the city’s Mayor William Berry Hartsfield.

June 20, 1904: Atlanta Mayor Evan Park Howell (1839-1905) signed the City Council’s resolution officially making Piedmont Park a city park. The city paid $99,000 to buy the land to the dismay of many disgruntled citizens.

June 22, 1943: Former Atlanta University professor W.E.B. DuBois became the first African American member of the National Institute of Letters.

June 23, 1910: New York’s Joseph Frances Gatins, Sr. was ready to begin construction of Atlanta’s newest hotel, The Georgian Terrace. The site, located on the northeast corner of Peachtree Street and Ponce de Leon Avenue, was graded to street level and ready for the basement excavation.

By June 23, New York’s George C. Fuller Construction Company received a contract to build the $500,000 Gatins tourist hotel between July 21, 1910 and September 8, 1911. A new book on the Gatin family, We Were Dancing on a Volcano, has just been published. Read more at AtlantaIntownPaper.com June 27, 2003: The Carter-King Peace Walk opened, linking The Carter Center with the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site. The 1.5-mile stretch along Freedom Trail is a permanent outdoor exhibit honoring the two Georgians and Nobel Peace Prize winners.

June 30, 1877: Atlanta University student Henry Ossian Flipper (1856-1940) becomes the first black graduate at West Point Military Academy. Henry graduated 50th out of a class of 76 and was commissioned a second lieutenant and assigned to frontier duty with the 10th Calvary, a famous all black unit known as the Buffalo Soldiers. He was born in Thomasville, Ga. to former slaves, grew up in Atlanta and studied at the university for three years before his appointment to the United States Military Academy.

Join Atlanta INtown’s Social Network.

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

Marc Maron

The smell of burgers and onion rings waft from the kitchen. A first date nervously unfolds in the corner booth. A rowdy set of college-age football enthusiasts down shots. And a biker sitting at the bar takes his cocktail while watching the news. It’s a typical Saturday evening at Atlanta’s Vortex Bar and Grill on Peachtree Street.

To most patrons, the Vortex is just an eclectic burger joint with an impressive beer selection and whimsical brick-a-brac on the walls. But to those in the know, it’s so much more. Through the swinging doors in the back, down the hall, and past the facilities is the Laughing Margaret Cho Skull Lounge – a tiny speakeasy of a comedy club – it seats 80 people – housed in what was once the Peachtree Playhouse.

Riding high on the success of a high-profile festival that drew an impressive array of industry dealmakers, this discreet club is poised for national recognition. The owner, Marshall Chiles, admits the club has an intangible hipness superseding the sum of its parts. “The Laughing Skull is cooler than I am,” says the Atlanta-born comedian, “and I’m kind of jealous of it.”

The room’s moody back-seat feel is no accident, though. “Somebody said in 1984 that ‘this is how comedy clubs are supposed to look’ and they’ve stayed the same ever since” says Chiles. “You don’t have to build a 500-seat place, give away tickets, and make your money on chicken fingers. That model’s broken. I’m trying to show the industry there’s a better way to do it.”

Many comedians, including stand-up veteran Margaret Cho, who has a home in Atlanta, use the club to experiment with new material.

Marshall Chiles “You have a higher level of talent and creativity that’s coming through, and that makes me better as a comic,” Cho says. “I’m there a lot – like every weekend – just to hang out, and I see how my work has improved by simply hanging out.”

Cho, who’s currently shooting Lifetime’s third season of the comedy fantasy Drop Dead Diva, had preconceived notions about Atlanta and its comedy scene before moving here. “I expected it to be very conservative. It’s actually pretty liberal and pretty progressive,” Cho says. “I didn’t expect it to be such a cultural melting pot. So much great music is happening and so much great comedy. It’s been a great place for me creatively.”

Chiles says Atlanta’s comedy community differs from those of New York and Los Angeles, in that TV deals aren’t necessarily the brass ring. “Guys in Atlanta are doing it because they love standup comedy,” he says. “It’s just more of a pure art form down here.”

That’s not to say veterans of those hardscrabble, industry-driven environments aren’t warming to Chiles’ approach. Marc Maron, host and creator of the tremendously popular podcast bearing his name, recently PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAUREN GRUNDHOEFER. headlined a few nights at the Laughing Skull.

“What’s not to be appealing? It has great sound; it’s a great looking club, and it’s a very small crowd,” says the abrasively charismatic comic through a mouthful of Nicorette gum. “Would it be appealing to me if I could fill a theater? Yeah, I think so. Because I prefer half a house; I like a small crowd. I don’t like much of a fourth wall. I like a conversation to unfold. I develop my material on stage, and certainly a small room is more conducive to that.”

Maron added, “Marshall comes from the club system, but he had the foresight to see what was going on, and to try this with a tremendous amount of risk involved.”

And now that those risks are paying off, Chiles plans to stay the course, relying on that critical component that made his club a success in the first place: exclusivity. He paraphrases a line from The Social Network when summing up his business model: “Keep it cool, and everybody will want to play with you.”

For more about the club, visit vortexcomedy.com.

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

INtown contributors weigh in on their favorite restaurant patios Warm weather has settled in and that means the patios and Intown eateries are abuzz with diners enjoying a cocktail, cool salad or other summer meal. We asked our regular contributors – and our staff – to tell us their favorite restaurant patios.

We want to hear from you, gentle readers, about your favorite al fresco dining spot Intown. Visit our website at AtlantaINtownPaper.com and leave a comment.

Eclipse di Luna: The Miami Circle restaurant has a lovely patio. All the tapas are good. I’m a fan of the seasonally rotating hummus, the Catalan bread, and the balsamic glazed ribs. The wine list is very good, as are the sangria and mojitos. 764 Miami Circle, eclipsediluna.com

the homemade potato chips. Other favorites include the grilled shrimp tacos and the fried zucchini. sixfeetunderatlanta.com

Radial Café: Radial makes my list in so many categories, and they have a terrific patio. Plus the back room has garage doors they raise in good weather, making that an “almost patio.” Frank and his staff have recently revised the menu. While most people only think of this as a breakfast place, lunch is very good, too. The California club wrap and the grilled hummus sandwich are excellent. 1530 DeKalb Ave., radial.us

Apres Diem: Great place to grab an Baronda: If you’re yearning for a trip to Europe but saving until the dollar holds its weight against the euro, look no farther than 3rd Street and Peachtree. This authentic, warm Italian eatery boasts some of the best patio seating Atlanta has to offer, complete with eclectic European music and a distinct Tuscan feel. A perk to this patio is that meals are finished with a complimentary lemoncello shot! 710 Peachtree St., baraondaatlanta.com

both locations (Grant Park and Westside) are great. I’m a fan of a nice draft cider and

Horseradish Grill: I love their patio – it’s awesome and quiet. Great to have a drink and enjoy a plate of their fried green tomatoes. 4320 Powers Ferry Rd., horseradishgrill.com

Cowtippers: They have a great patio for people watching around Ansley Mall and kicking back with friends for a margarita.

1600 Piedmont Ave., metrocafes.com

Osteria 832: When I think patios, I want

Six Feet Under: The rooftop patios at

appetizer before a movie at the Midtown Art Cinema. They manage to have a sort of cosmopolitan ambience in the evening, which is inviting. 931 Monroe Dr., apresdiem.com

Babette’s Café: The beloved back deck is intimate and a great place to have a meal or enjoy a glass of wine. The location is a 1916 bungalow in Ponce-Highlans, which appeals to my love of history. 573 N. Highland Ave. babettescafe.com

DOLMAS • CAL AMARI • KABOBS • FAL AFEL • TZATZIK I

fresh air, view of the stars and casual digs. I like the smoked proscuitto pie with paperthin crust, white sauce, glazed balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. 832 N. Highland Ave. osteria832.com

Apres Diem: Their patio feels more like a moonlit cafe in Paris than a bistro in Midtown. The brie and baguette is great and finish your meal with one of their heavenly desserts like white chocolate raspberry cheesecake and a specialty coffee.

931 Monroe Dr., apresdiem.com

Joe’s on Juniper: The patio is always REPEATEDLY VOTED BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

Taqueria del Sol: I love the outdoor seating at the location in Decatur (there are also locations on the Westside and Cheshire Bridge Road) just to watch the people walk by. I always get “The George,” which is not on the menu. It’s a mix of beans, rice and greens that’s a bit spicy. 359 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., taqueriadelsol.com

boisterous and jolly at Joe’s and they have one of the best hamburgers in town, as well as a good Cobb salad. 1049 Juniper St., metrocafes.com

Kevin Rathbun’s Steak: Despite a gorgeous interior, I love to head outside to the Beltline Patio at Rathbun’s Steak when the weather is nice for dinner or cocktails.

You get the same great service, but in a lovely, much quieter setting. Don’t miss the crispy fried oysters and okra appetizer, and since it’s a classic steak house, I always order (at least) one of the best vodka martinis in town. 154 Krog St., kevinrathbunsteak.com PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 32

IN ATLANTA

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30 INtown | June 2011

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Sotto Sotto: Most people don’t know that this small and intimate dining room has an even smaller garden patio out back. It’s the perfect cozy spot for a dinner date or some time with good friends. My personal favorite is the Americano, featuring Campari, sweet vermouth and a splash of club soda. 313 N. Highland Ave., sottosottorestaurant.com

Six Feet Under: Both the Grant Park and Westside locations have rooftop decks with great views. I have sat looking out at the Oakland Cemetery during many Sunday brunches contemplating my own “death” before being “saved” by one of their signature Oyster Shooters and seafood taco combos. sixfeetunderatlanta.com

Here is a sampling of our staff ’s picks, which should satisfy just about every craving and occasion.

Las Margaritas: Enjoy tasty Mexican dishes, a margarita and the drag show! 1842 Cheshire Bridge Road. lasmargaritasmidtown.com Café 640: Neighbors gather on this nice-sized patio for signature Grapefruit Rosewater Martinis, Crispy Asparagus appetizers and Hanger Steaks. The patio faces the sidewalk so is great for watching the world go by. 640 N. Highland Ave., cafe640.com

Savage Pizza: After a day exploring Little

this Intown restaurant known for its patio dining along the rolling Chattahoochee River. This romantic place often hosts wedding receptions and cocktail parties in the garden. Brunch, lunch and dinner are served. 4199 Paces Ferry Road, canoeatl.com

Noni’s Bar & Deli: Edgewood is buzzing with steady traffic, but you can find a quiet spot on the side of Noni’s in their outdoor dining area. The seating is limited, but that’s also part of the charm. Mushrom leek bruschetta, noni’s fries, and homemade tagliatelle are a few of our favorites.

357 Edgewood Ave., nonisdeli.com

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Five Points, enjoy the patio and Savage’s famous pizza by the pie or the slice. 84 Moreland Ave., savagepizza.com

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill: French toast, a freshly squeezed juice and a cup of coffee on this tropical patio surrounded by plants and birds makes this a great brunch spot. 1812 Peachtree St., rthomasdeluxegrill.net

Big Ketch Saltwater Grill: Feel like you’re at the beach and enjoy hot buttered lobster rolls, fresh oysters and more. 3279 Roswell Road, thebigketch.com

Canoe: We’d be remiss not to mention

relaxed environment. Because it’s located in a residential area, people often walk over to kick-back and enjoy a glass of wine and dinner. It’s a really pretty spot, too, in the middle of a lot of trees (hence the name).

7 Kings Circle, treehouseatlanta.com

Agave: Order a margarita, the cayenne fried chicken and enjoy the atmosphere of Cabbagetown from the patio at this southwestern favorite. 242 Bouleveard, agaverestaurant.com

Universal Joint: Bring the kids, bring the dog and we’ll see you at the U Joint.

The patio is center of Decatur’s Oakhurst neighborhood and has a friendly atmosphere and vibe. We usually get a burger and fries.

The buffalo chicken salad is also great. Good beers. 906 Oakview Road, ujointbar.com Las Palmeras: Cuban meets Midtown meets super laid-back on this small restaurant patio. It’s on the neighborhood side streets and tucked away from Intown’s hustle and bustle. This is where the neighbors get their fix of fried plantains, black beans and rice, and ropa vieja.

368 Fifth St. (404) 872-0846

Doc Chey’s: The Doc offers three options for patio dining Intown: Emory, Morningside and Grant Park. The patios are large and kid-friendly. Neighbors love to walk or ride their bike to these patios for dim sum, noodles, salads and more. doccheys.com George’s: Virginia-Highland’s original burger joint still serves up – in our opinion – the best burger in town. Kick back relax and watch the world go by on the covered patio. 1041 N. Highland Ave. georgesbarandrestaurant.com

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“if it were not for Some CreatiVe puBliC relationS, atlanta’S SymBol would Be a Big Ball of tar.”

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Everybody’s Pizza: The relaxed patio is a good outdoor getaway for Emory University students and neighbors, alike. There’s a fountain, plenty of seating and affordable meal options. It’s top-notch pizza. 1593 N. Decatur Road, everybodyspizza.com

MetroFresh in the Garden: After a

Midtown Tavern: Bring your pooch to the dog-friendly patio and enjoy the American pub-style menu. 554 Piedmont Ave. midtowntavern.net

32 INtown | June 2011

Treehouse Restaurant and Pub: This big deck is a Buckhead institution and a gathering spot for people looking for a

stroll through the Kendeda Canopy Walk and playing in the Children’s Garden at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, you might have built up an appetite. There’s a good outdoor spot to enjoy a snack or lunch at this café.

There are an assortment of sandwiches, soups, cookies and drinks. Also, checkout the location in Midtown Promenade (as pictured above) 1345 Piedmont Ave., atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

Coming in July: The INtown Takeover

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Quick Bites News & Happenings Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week is back for its 10th anniversary from May 28 to June 4 with more than 20 participating restaurants including FAB, Azio, BLT Steak, Dantanna’s, Der Biergarten and Georgia Peach. Each dinner menu is specifically crafted for the event, whether it includes staple items from their regular menu or new culinary adventures to showcase the restaurant’s style and talent. Meals will include multiple options for an appetizer, entrée and a dessert that you can choose from at the fixed rate of $25 or $35 per meal depending upon the restaurant and their menu. Beverages, tax and gratuities are not included in the price of the meal.

Reservations can be made online now at OpenTable.com.

Cafe Jonah and The Magical Attic in Buckhead has launched a new “Pay What You Want” Sunday brunch format. The menu features organic and local ingredients when available. cafejonah.com Las Margaritas raised more than $2,500 for the Red Cross Relief Fund for Japan at last month’s Cinco De Mayo celebration.

The Green Restaurant Association has

awarded Radial Cafe a three-star rating.

Radial took several steps to grow from a 2-star rating to a 3-star rating, including replacing its dishwasher with an Eco-Star rated, low-flow dish machine that uses environmentally-friendly chemicals and switching to BPA-free printer paper and other products. radial.us

Twenty-Two Storys is now open at the Hyatt Regency in downtown. The lobby bard features 22 beers and ales such as Sweetwater, JailHouse and Terrapin Beer; 22 selected wines; and 22 food items that are locally-sourced and Southern cuisine inspired.

RA Sushi in Midtown will host its seventh annual Nicky’s Week fundraiser May 29 through June 4 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of a variety of menu items and beverages will be donated.

The event is in memory of the nephew of one of RA Sushi’s founders. rasushi.com

Andrew Thomas, formerly of Local Three and Livingston, is the new chef at Sauced in Inman Park. saucedatlanta.com Genki Noodles and Sushi has opened its third location in Virginia-Highland in the former Everybody’s space and is now open for lunch, dinner and delivery seven days a week. genkiatl.com

planned store will be 4,800 square feet in the Merchant’s Walk development, next door to Whole Foods. Owner Mary Moore said the new outpost will open later this summer. cookswarehouse.com OMG Taco is open in Little Five Points on Euclid Avenue serving up a fusion of Korean and Mexican-styled tacos and burritos. ohmmgogi.com.

The annual Real Men Cook charity event will be held Sunday, June 19, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Atlanta Civic Center.

Congressman John Lewis, Roger Bobb of Tyler Perry Studios and more than 100 men will be on hand for this food tasting celebration on Father’s Day. There will be live performances, activities for children and, of course, food. Tickets are $20 in advance for adults and $10 for children 12 years of age and under (tickets are $5 more at the door). Tickets and more information available at realmencook.com.

The Cook’s Warehouse will open a fourth location in East Cobb County. The

a g a v e an eclectic southwestern eatery & tequila bar ҉ cabbagetown . atlanta Consistently Rated Excellent in Atlanta for the Last Ten Years

Reservations Accepted 404 588 0006 or online at www.agaverestaurant.com Between Inman Park and Grant Park one mile south of Boulevard 242 Boulevard SE . Atlanta . GA . 30312

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

photos by Mark Petko

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June 2011 | IN

Go Green

YOUR GUIDE FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY LIFESTYLE

PARK PERKS

Selena S. Butler Park renovation underway

Butler Park

MORE PARK NEWS

D.H. Stanton Park

Greenspace is an integral part of the 22-mile Atlanta BeltLine and three new parks are opening for use by the public.

By the time you read this, D.H. Stanton Park at Boynton and Martin Streets in southeast Atlanta will be open. Park amenities include a splash pad, play area, walking paths and little league baseball field.

Historic Fourth Ward Park Skate Park

Through its Parks Build Community project, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has named Atlanta’s historic Selena S. Butler Park as the next site for its proven revitalization initiative.

In order to demonstrate and support the integral role America’s parks play in revitalizing underserved urban areas, NRPA’s Parks Build Community project was launched in 2009. The first park selected to receive the extensive facelift was Marvin Gaye Park in Washington D.C. In August 2009, the first phase of the rejuvenated park was opened to the public.

Named after a key figure in the fight for racial equality in American education and located mere blocks away from the Dr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site on Hilliard Street, Butler Park has been in dire need of revitalization since suffering severe damage during Atlanta’s infamous 2008 tornado.

“Urban parks not only offer a long list of health benefits, but they also provide a safe place for community members to build a stronger identity through social interaction,” says Barbara Tulipane, CEO of NRPA. Construction and installation of Butler Park began last month and NRPA plans to host a dedication ceremony in early November.

For more information visit nrpa.org/ parksbuildcommunity.

– Collin Kelley

Modern Mountain Home Architect designed and owned. Featured in Dwell magazine.

Two bedroom, two bath, courtyard home in a small community of modern homes 90 minutes from Atlanta near Ellijay and Blue Ridge.

On a 1.75 acre meadow lot adjacent to 5 acre Common Area with level access and beautiful pond and mountain views.

Radiant heat, Pella windows, Flash hot water heating, High efficiency insulation.

Offered at just $275,000.

Gary Kaupman • Georgia Mountains Group • 888.903.9746 • gkaup@ellijay.com Atlanta Intown Real Estate Services • 404.881.1830

34 INtown | June 2011

The Historic Fourth Ward Park Skate Park grand opening is set for Saturday, June 11, at 3 p.m. and will feature a skating exhibition and remarks by local officials.

The park is at 830 Willoughby Way.

Historic Fourth Ward Park has been open for a couple of months but its official dedication is Saturday, June 18, at 10 a.m.

Mayor Kasim Reed will officiate followed by a morning of games and events across the park.

For more about the Atlanta BeltLine parks, visit beltline.org.

Eco-Briefs DecaturWISE (Worthwhile Investments Save Energy) is a new program offering substantial rebates for City of Decatur homeowners who participate in Georgia Power’s Energy Improvement Program.

City of Atlanta homeowners should learn about the SHINE program. For more information on the DecaturWISE program, please visit decaturga.com.

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center has designated the City of Decatur a Silver Walk Friendly Community.

Walk Friendly Communities is a national recognition program aimed at recognizing communities for their commitment to pedestrian safety. Decatur actively promoted walking through a number of outreach efforts and community events.

“We are proud of the city’s walkability as we have been working on both pedestrian and bicycle programming and infrastructure improvement for many years. The City of Decatur is honored to receive this designation,” said Decatur

Mayor Bill Floyd. walkfriendly.org Winter Construction, a privately owned and operated Atlanta based construction and general contracting company, was recently awarded a $6.1 million dormitory renovation project at Spelman College in Atlanta. Scheduled to begin in July, the 11-month construction project on Laura Residence Hall is targeted for LEED Silver certification. The 20,000-square-foot residence hall will receive updated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The interior structural framing will be re-built and all new finishes will be installed. For more information visit winter-construction.com Small Trailers At Large rents environmentally friendly camping trailers for festivals, hunting, fishing and other outdoor events. The trailers can be rented on a daily, weekly or extended basis to individuals, families and organizations that need a lightweight camping solution. smalltrailersatlarge.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

Green Insider Laura Turner Seydel

The Truth About Plastic Recycling

In a recent visit to Atlanta to meet with the Upper Chattahooche Riverkeeper, Dr. Marcus Eriksen of the Algalita Marine Research Foundation spoke to us about the unknown truths of plastic recycling. Just like the compelling documentary Bag It (bagitmovie.com) proved, Eriksen shed even more light as to how overwhelming plastic recycling can be.

When it comes to plastic, the number at the bottom has always alerted us to what can be recycled. This number indicates the type of resin used in the plastic and its ability to be recycled (#1 being the easiest and #7 being the hardest). The City of Atlanta accepts plastics #1 to #7, with the exception of plastic caps, Styrofoam, lotion and soap pumps, plastic bags and biodegradable items, but because recycling is dependent upon the demand from area manufacturers using recycled plastic, many cities do not recycle certain types of plastic.

It’s important to strictly follow your area’s curbside recycling standards, as adding restricted items could result in your

load being directed to a landfill. Because of plastic’s longevity this is detrimental to our planet. We have plastic polluting our planet at every turn: clogging storm chains and accumulating in our rivers, streams and oceans. Twice the size of the United States, the Great Northern Pacific Garbage Patch is just one of the floating plastic islands on our planet which threatens the ecosystem and the marine life, which feeds off the plastic (5gyres.com).

The best way to ensure that plastic is not being added to our landfill is to eliminate single-use plastic, like water bottles, utensils, straws and cigarette butts, from your everyday life. Make a commitment to using reusable bags and water bottles and to bringing your own containers when ordering takeout. Also, get creative and, for example, instead of buying 10 individual servings of yogurt, buy one large tub.

If you must use plastic, make sure it is recycled responsibly. Follow city guidelines and rinse all accepted plastic, eliminating lids and Styrofoam, before adding to your curb-side recycling collection. Make an extra effort to drop off your #5 plastic to Whole Foods’ collection bins and your plastic bags and Styrofoam at Publix collection bins to ensure a healthy world for future generations.

To learn more about plastic recycling, visit lauraseydel.com.

“we all Know tHat at tHe end of tHe day, it’S not aBout wHat you Know, But wHo you follow.”

–SYDIA BELL

Coming in July: The INtown Takeover

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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June 2011 | IN

IN Business RETAIL | MONEY & FINANCE | DEVELOPMENT

PART 2

By Collin Kelley, Editor While Facebook and Twitter have become the most popular social media platforms, blogs are still going strong. As part of our ongoing series, we met up with three local bloggers who have built loyal followings. These are the kinds of blogs people bookmark or set up Google alerts to make sure they are caught up with the latest items being posted. The blogs also give a snapshot of Atlanta’s ever-growing, social media savvy populace. Ready, set, click.

whatnowatlanta.com One of the city’s most controversial blogs is What Now, Atlanta? maintained by 22-yearold Caleb J. Spivak.

The blog focuses on the openings and closings of local retail and restaurants, with a bit of Spivak’s opinion thrown in for good measure. He often announces closings before the staff has been informed, and he’s drawn the ire of restaurant owners for posting failed health inspection scores.

Spivak created What Now, Atlanta? four years ago, and can often be found in his “office” at Inman Perk Coffee Shop.

When he’s not tracking down leads and fielding tips from a network of contacts, he’s at his day job or in class at Georgia State University, where he’s a marketing major. Spivak also spends untold hours sifting through public documents gleaning information about local businesses.

“I spend an average of eight hours on each post,” Spivak says. “And while that’s happening, I’m getting more tips in my mailbox or on my phone. Sometimes, it’s information overload.”

Spivak was the first to get the details on Phipps Plaza’s deal with Legoland and the abrupt closings of the 5th Street Café and Nikimoto’s. Spivak said he often turns to fellow blogger and mentor Michael Alvear when he has questions or concerns about posting a potential item.

Spivak considers himself more of a curator than a journalist, but says he strives to present factual information and correct it quickly when he gets it wrong.

“My readers are incredibly passionate and they have their own opinions,” he says.

“I’m reporting this information and it creates dialogue.”

36 INtown | June 2011

thethrifters.net

Looking for bargain luxury label clothing and accessories, but don’t feel like trolling through the thrift shops to find it?

Daniel Troppy does it for you and provides the details on his blog, The Thrifters. The blog has been so popular, it led Troppy to open Doubletake boutique in Studioplex, where he sells many of his finds.

“I started shopping in thrift stores while I was poor and destitute during college,” he says. “It really is amazing what you can find at Goodwill if you’re persistent and patient.

It takes stamina.”

Troppy goes to thrift stores almost every day and recounts his adventures and finds on the blog. He spends up to three hours in each one, and often returns more than once a day.

Troppy has find Chanel jackets, Pucci dresses and Prada bags, often in brand new condition. He says big fashion labels liquidate their merchandise to places like TJ Maxx and Ross, but if those discounters can’t sell the items, they often just donate them to thrift stores.

Goodwill and Salvation Army shops yield the best finds, he says, and he also goes to estate sales. Even when he’s out of town on vacation, he’ll pop into thrift stores.

“Houston has some particularly good thrift stores,” he laughs.

The best-of-the-best in Troppy’s daily thrifting expeditions winds up for sale in Doubletake. “The shop wouldn’t be here without the blog,” he says.

Troppy’s best advice for those looking to find luxury for a few dollars: “It’s all timing; if you don’t find what you’re looking for, keep going back.”

babygotbooks.com

Decatur resident Tim Frederick created Baby Got Books in 2005 after reading The New York Times’ annual list of 100 notable books and realized he’d only heard about a half dozen of the titles.

“As an avid reader, I couldn’t believe that I was that out of touch,” Frederick recalls.

“BGB was born shortly thereafter as a New Year’s resolution to become more engaged with reading and more up to date with literary news.”

Employed by the Centers for Disease Control by day, Frederick said the blog was a good hobby and he was able to recruit friends who were also book lovers to join the effort. With newspapers and magazines cutting back on their coverage of books and reviews, BGB has become a must-read for the literati. The site gets between 5,000 and 7,000 visitors each month.

“I’m amazed and humbled daily that we’re putting something out there that people other than my mother will occasionally stop to read,” Frederick says.

The reviews that go up on the site include everything from contemporary fiction to books dealing with science and environmental issues. “Our contributors have varied interests – fiction of all stripes, historical non-fiction, classics, etc. I’d like to think we present a fairly eclectic mix of books.”

With the rise of the Kindle and other ebook readers, Frederick hasn’t purchased one yet, but he’s noticed that presses are offering advanced copies for review as PDFs and other e-formats.

With summer here, Frederick says he plans to catch up on his reading including The Hunger Games series, David Foster Wallace’s The Pale King and he’s looking forward to China Mieville’s Embassytown, 1Q84 by Haruki Marukami and The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides.

Business & Retail Briefs Pulitzer Prize winner George Goodwin, 92, was given the prestigious Dan Sweat Award, given in recognition of his lifetime accomplishments as a business leader in the Atlanta community at the recent Central Atlanta Progress Annual Meeting. Goodwin served as Central Atlanta Improvement Association’s Executive Director from 19521954. After World War II, George Goodwin began his career as a journalist and worked as a reporter and feature writer on the Atlanta Georgian, News and Courier of Charleston, Washington Times and Miami Daily News.

In December 1945, he joined the Atlanta Journal staff and earned a Pulitzer Prize for his investigative and political writing. Peg and Bill Balzer received the Turner Award as private citizens by stepping forward to do good work in Downtown Atlanta. The Blazers were integral in securing Theatrical Oufit’s space in the renovated Herren’s restaurant on Luckie Street. The Balzers have given over $1.4 million to Theatrical Outfit, revitalizing the theater and making it the only freestanding “green” theater in the United States.

House of Current, a new full service advertising agency, is open for business. “For the past two years, we operated as the Atlanta office of parent company, Brogan Tennyson Group,” explains House of Current partner, Lisa Maloof. “Prior to that, we were Current, Inc., which was owned by BTG but operated independently as a separate agency.” Maloof launched this new venture along with longtime creative director Wendy Lowden, and associate creative director Scott Gurley. The trio has worked together for over 15 years, and their new agency retains the same clients, staff and offices they had as BTG Atlanta.

Clients of HOC include an international retail developer, leading residential real estate developer, national department store brand, financial advisory firm, fitness center and some of the country’s leading super-regional shopping centers. (404) 816-0094.

Fidelity Bank has been ranked third on Georgia’s 504 lenders list and fourth in lending during the first quarter of 2011, w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. For the last two years, Fidelity has focused on its growth and lending divisions. During first quarter, Fidelity closed more than 30 loans totaling over $28 million. fideslitysouthern.com Atlantic Station has installed a highdefinition public safety surveillance system from Iron Sky. With a customized surveillance system for the 138-acre property in Midtown, law enforcement officials will be armed with map-based, non-proprietary software and HD video imagery. The system includes new street level cameras, wi-fi connections to surveillance network, wireless network link between Midtown Blue, Atlantic Station Public Safety offices and more.

FLOR has opened its fourth national store in Atlanta. Located at 1100 Howell Mill Road in the Westside Provisions District, the 2,171 square-foot store lets consumers explore the various modular flooring options. Customers are encouraged to actively participate in the creation of their FLOR rug by using a specially-designed grid on the floor that allows them get a sense of the size and scale of their rug concept. Pages from the FLOR catalog are brought to life on the walls to help visitors visualize how FLOR can fit any décor. The store will have a team of experienced FLOR design consultants available. flor.com Meet designer Karim Rashid during a reception from 8 to 10 p.m. on June 8 at the Pedini Showroom of Atlanta, a

division of Lee Bryan Interior Design, 800 Peachtree St. Rashid’s work has been featured in Time, The New York Times and Esquire to name a few for his award-winning designs for products like Method and Dirt Devil, furniture for Artemide and Magis, and brand identities for Citibank and Hyundai. Pedini Showroom carries Karim Rashid’s designs for Italian companies Bonaldo, Tonelli and Cierre. (404) 817-3313 Baby Love, a children’s consignment shop, is now open at 465 Boulevard in Grant Park. Baby Love carries new and gently used children’s consignment including clothing, accessories, shoes, toys, equipment, books, and more at a fraction of retail cost. In addition to the retail store, Baby Love has a beautiful, large and colorful studio for classes and parties. Some of the classes offered include prenatal yoga, labor and birthing preparation, baby and me music and dance, children’s sewing, and adult photography workshops to teach parents how to take better photographs of their children. The studio is also available to rent for parties and other events such as baby showers.

BabyLoveAtlanta.com New on the Atlanta home décor scene, Nandina Home and Design is open in Inman Park. Featuring high-end furniture, rugs, accessories, art and gifts, the shop also touts an in-house workroom and personalized design services. With a sampling of industry lines, the shop stocks an array of items ranging from funky to modern contemporary. nandinahome.com .

Buckhead. $600,000 1108 Roxboro Point.

5BR/3BA FMLS: 4212225 Sydna Worthington 404.502.4660

Buckhead. $490,000 1830 Ardmore Road.

3BR/2.5BA FMLS:4208409 Carson Matthews 678.595.9286

Buckhead. $635,000 3383 Paces Forest Road.

4BR/3BA FMLS: 4191596 Carson Matthews 678.595.9286

Buckhead. $649,000 1700 Buckhead Court.

4BR/4BA FMLS:4210923 Adrian Schmidt 404.924.6812

Decatur. $389,000 114 Hibernia Avenue.

3BR/3BA FMLS: 4176376 Jay Bailey 678.557.6971

Dekalb. $189,000 2170 Medfield Trail NE. 3BR/2BA FMLS: 4215524 Suzanne Dils 770.845.3474

Downtown. $119,900 400 W Peachtree #3016.

1BR/1BA FMLS: 4216979 Will Jacobs 404.808.0086

East Atlanta. $224,500 448 Metropolitan Place.

3BR/2BA FMLS: 4213869 Ally May 404.788.7943

Glenwood Park. $540,000 473 Hamilton Street.

4BR/4BA FMLS: 4191220 Carmen Pope 404.625.4134

Glenwood Park. $475,000 500 Brasfield Square.

3BR/3.5BA FMLS:4217356 Carmen Pope 404.625.4134

Atlantic Station. $250,000 217 16th Street #9.

3BR/3.5BA FMLS:4213397 Chase Mizell 404.835.9595

Midtown. $599,000 738 Argonne Avenue.

3BR/2BA FMLS:4210157 Jim Getzinger 404.307.4020

Morningside. $559,000 1669 N Pelham Road.

5BR/3BA FMLS: 4207643 Jared Sapp 404.668.7233

Ormewood Park. $313,900 1119 Napier Street.

3BR/3BA FMLS: 4208403 Jere Metcalf 770.337.7122

Making Sense of Social Brigette Flood What do Rebecca Black, Old Spice and Sesame Street have in common?

Not sure if you’ve heard yet, but there is a lot of buzz about video in the world of social media marketing. It sounds like this: Videos add value without adding cost.

They’re great for all devices. They give you better search results. They work across platforms. They go viral which brings fame and fortune.

While I haven’t bought into all the hype, its’ true videos offer quick, creative engagement and take advantage of several key marketing axioms: 1) go where your audience is, 2) make it easy and fun, 3) make it memorable.

Every company and marketer I know is either working on some video project, whether it’s hyper produced, shot from the hip, home-video style, an imbedded tv/ video stream or a YouTube channel. Are you thinking, “Sure YouTube is fun and all, but how does it turn into profit, other than those one in a million fateful uploads like Rebecca Black?” By the way, she reportedly makes upwards of $26,000 per week in royalties from sales of “Friday” from iTunes.

Don’t’ believe me? Two words: Old Spice. Of course the ads have the benefit of being funny and being bundled with an w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

… ahem … compelling spokesperson. But now it’s nearly newsworthy whenever a new installment of their “Smell Like a Man, Man” campaign is released. Sesame Street saw the rocketing viral appeal and quickly threw Grover in a towel for his “Smell Like a Monster” video. (If you haven’t seen it, it’s worth a look – VSFW, verrry safe for work).

Still unsure about video’s potential?

Keep watching keyboard cat videos while these stats tick across the bottom of your mind: over 490 million people search, watch and share videos on YouTube per month, with an estimated 92 billion monthly page views, according to Mashable.com. Good news for audience members: more creative engagement is on the way. Good news for those making them: there’s a huge audience waiting. Wow them.

Great news for local social mediaphiles and Atlanta INtown readers: James Andrews of Social People and Famous PPL (formerly of Everywhere, an Atlanta-based social PR firm) sits down to download what this all means with me on MakingSenseofSocial.com.

Follow James on Twitter @socialpeopletv or visit their website at socialpeople.tv. Follow me @brigflood. Check out Atlanta INtown’s YouTube channel: AtlantaIntownPaper

UNDER CONTRACT UNDER CONTRACT

Morningside. $699,000 1451 N. Morningside Drive.

4BR/3.5BA FMLS:4213267 Jared Sapp 404.668.7233

Morningside. $779,000 1447 N. Morningside Dr. 4BR/3.5BA FMLS:4213316 Jim Getzinger 404.668.7233 Jared Sapp 404.668.7233

UNDER CONTRACT

Roswell. $3,800,000 550 Stonemoor Circle.

9BR/11.5BA FMLS:4222043 Jim Getzinger 404.307.4020 Jared Sapp 404.668.7233

Suwanee. $1,299,999 881 Little Lost Landing.

Virginia Highland. $534,000 1273 Euclade Court.

6BR/6Full 2halfBA FMLS:4197408 4BR/3.5BA FMLS:4211592 Rhonda Haran Jim Getzinger 404.556.5600 404.307.4020

Virginia Highland. $795,000 862 Virginia Avenue.

4BR/4BA FMLS: 4209558 Jared Sapp 404.668.7233

OUR INTOWN OFFICE IS OPENING IN 2011!

AtlantaFineHomes.com 404.237.5000 © MMXI 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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June 2011 | IN

real estate CITY LIVING | NEIGHBORHOODS | DEVELOPMENT

Bouncing Back Sales of lofts, condos and townhomes on the upswing Shandra Hill Smith Today’s real estate market is shaping up to be a robust one when it comes to sales of condominiums, townhomes and lofts, according to housing professionals.

“We’ve seen a pick–up in traffic at all of our sites, with lots of contract activity,” says Vic Miller, senior vice president of sales/managing broker, The Marketing Directors, LLC (themarketingdirectorsinc.com) in Atlanta.

“We’re also seeing more buyers able to sell their existing homes and make their move into a new condo, townhome or loft.”

One of The Marketing Directors’ current projects includes a new gated townhome community, Brownstones at Edgewood (atlbrownstones.com). The threeand four-bedroom townhomes in the heart of Edgewood feature private two-car garages.

As of last month, 18 live/work options are available starting at $199,900.

The townhomes feature expansive living areas with hardwood floors, gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and appliance packages, fireplaces, contemporary light fixtures, spa baths with Jacuzzi tubs and tiled showers and spacious decks with a select number of rooftop terraces.

Brownstones at Edgewood Photos

Please turn to page 40

Traditional value, modern innovation.

Comfortable, healthy, energy efficient.

- A NIGHT OF EPICURIAN DELIGHTS -

Shepherd Center Society invites you to join us for a night of fine wine, great food, live music and an exciting Live Auction to raise money for Shepherd Center.

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, And more! your budget. That’s our style.

er’s mission is to help people with a temporary or permanent disability caused by injury or disease, 404-373-2345 s with hope, independence and dignity, advocating for their full inclusion in all aspects of community pinnacle-custom-builders.com while promoting safety and injury prevention. Visit Shepherd.org for more information.

H I G H

P E R F O R M A N C E

38 INtown | June 2011

H O M E

Wednesday, June 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Greystone, Piedmont Park Conservancy Twelve of Atlanta’s most talented chefs from our best restaurants will offer their finest fare, expertly paired with fine wines from around the world. There will also be a martini bar.

Offering culinary creations from such talented chefs as: Gerry Klaskala of Aria • Scott Serpas of Serpas • Gary Donlick of Bistro Niko Gary Mennie of Table 1280 • Kevin Rathbun of Kevin Rathbun Steak • Peter Kaiser of Twist

Visit ShepherdCenterSociety.com to order tickets or sponsor Summer in The City.

Contact Anne Pearce at anne_pearce@shepherd.org or 404.350.7302.

S E R V I C E S w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

PERSPECTIVES IN ARCHITECTURE Melody Harclerode

Young and In Love My first love was architecture. As a youngster, I drew floor plans instead of hearts. I relished my father’s tours of the homes from his bricklaying projects. I adored visits to interesting buildings and treasured the sun-drenched spaces of my parochial school. Unfortunately, my hometown of Jackson, Mississippi, like most cities years ago, offered few organized events to nurture a student’s interest for designing and exploring buildings. Now, high school students in metropolitan Atlanta can apply their design skills and explore local architecture through numerous events and programs.

The AIA Atlanta High School Design Competition annually give some of the most promising future architects and designers in the state of Georgia the opportunity to challenge and expand their understanding of architecture. Ninety-three high school students from as far as Dahlonega submitted designs for a shelter to temporarily house at least eight people during the spring.

The designs incorporated environmentally friendly features, such as regional materials and solar power as an alternative energy source. On April 21, family, friends and the community of architects and educators celebrated the students’ work with a reception and awards ceremony at the Woodruff Arts Center.

Maurice Hickman from South Atlanta School of Computer and Animation Design (C.A.D.) in Atlanta earned the first place award and $2,000 for his thoughtful design concept, strong use of sustainable materials and systems, deft exploration of space, and wide range of spectacular drawings.

Samuel O’Donnell from Creekview High School in Canton merited second place and

$1000 for his eye-catching presentation and compelling design. Steven Yang from Kell High School in Marietta secured third place and $500 with his striking handdrawn illustrations and understanding of construction materials and methods. These young men improved their chances of admission into architectural schools with their awards.

While the competition resumes in late 2011, students have other chances for architectural exploration. For instance, AIA Atlanta organizes public tours of newly constructed and renovated buildings around the metropolitan area from April until November. Most of these tours are free.

This month, the public can walk through the new Atlanta Fire Rescue Department Station #11 near Midtown. People can also check out the sensitive renovation of the historic Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building in downtown Atlanta in July and the Hamilton Mill Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library in August. You will see me at several of these events. My love for architectural tours remains strong decades after the ones with my father.

Melody L. Harclerode, AIA, a local architect, promotes the power of architecture and design as a Board Member of the Atlanta chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Principal of Harclerode Architects (harc-arch.com). For more information about these programs, check out aiaatlanta.org.

Maurice Hickman

Samuel O’Donnell

Steven Yang

“Inquiring minds want to know what people do when they find themselves missing the comforts of home?”

- SYDIA BELL “Cock-a-doodle-do! What do roosters and cookies have in common? Find out in July!”

- A n g ela M il k ie

Coming in July: The INtown Takeover 39 INtown | June 2011

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

Just steps from Piedmont Park, Ansley Parkside came under new ownership in April and by May had one townhome under contract, with 40 available. Located on Monroe Drive across from the Morningside/ Ansley Park neighborhood, the community of three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath brownstones is convenient to dining and entertainment.

“Buyers are looking to simplify their lives and be centered in a more walkable lifestyle,” says Irene Hall, vice president,

The best of midtown townhome living is now within your reach!

marketing for Evolv (evolvre.com), which represents Ansley Parkside. “Intown is still an attractive place for young professionals and those trying to downsize or simplify.”

Ansley Parkside offers two floorplans: the Monroe and the Piedmont. Both have three bedrooms, designer finishes throughout, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and a two-car garage. An outdoor pool is slated to open in July. Special financing is available, with prices starting in the $370s.

Ansley Parkside Photos

Featuring: • • • • • • • • • • •

Swimming Pool Outdoor Fireplace & Grill 3 Bedroom Plans Designer Interiors Custom Built-Ins Gourmet Kitchen Granite Countertops Luxurious Master Bath Hardwood Floors Fireplace 2-Car Garages

Prices subject to change without notice. Please see onsite agent for details.

40 INtown | June 2011

Sales have been strong at both The Park at East Paces (www.parkeastpaces.com) and The Stacks at Fulton Cotton Mill, reports Leslie Williamson of Coldwell Banker NRT Development Advisors, which handles sales and marketing for the properties. (Photos on page 42) Just last month, The Park at East Paces had five of 81 homes remaining, while The Stacks at Fulton Cotton Mill (www. stackslofts.com) was more than 50 percent sold (with 134 homes total in phase two sales).

Located on East Paces Circle at the

intersection of Roxboro Road and East Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead, The Park at East Paces offers one- , two- and threebedroom floorplans, from the $170s to the $320s. Features at The Park at East Paces include elevators to each floor, custom open kitchens, granite countertops, tile or natural stone backsplashes, hardwood floors, garden tubs and separate showers, private balconies and a fitness center.

Floorplans at The Stacks at Fulton PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 42 w w w. A t l a n t a I N t o w n P a p e r. c o m

if your life is centered in the city, now is the time to make your move.

Urbanliving is your one-stop resource in your search for an urban dwelling. Whether you are buying, selling or leasing a condo, loft, townhome or urban bungalow, we'll guide you to discover your perfect new home in the city. Consider these examples of new listings we offer:

Virginia Highland – 1930s 3BR/2BA remodeled Craftsman bungalow. Open floor plan with chef’s kitchen. Upper deck with downtown views. $729,900 FMLS #4219548 Sunny Williams 404.705.1570/404.401.5364

Midtown – Two level designer loft, open SieMatic kitchen w/Subzero appliances, 20-ft ceilings, oversized balcony with city views. $389,900 FMLS #4191978 Craig Dodd 404.705.1570/678.860.6868

Midtown – Renovated 2BR/2BA condo with living area, separate dining and breakfast area. Spacious master retreat.

Wonderful city views. $299,000 FMLS #4204371 Bernice Lattimere 404.705.1570/404.536.7442

South Buckhead – New construction 2BR/2.5BA townhome with private garage, rooftop terrace, gourmet kitchen and flexible studio space. $269,900 FMLS #4213791 Heyward Young 404.705.1570/404.784.7063

Midtown – Stunning classic 3BR/2BA bungalow. Large open kitchen, spacious master suite, front porch for lounging.

Walk to Piedmont Park. $459,900 FMLS #4207218 Allen Snow 404.705.1570/404.931.1176

choose the urban lifestyle and live where you work and play

Coldwell Banker NRT Development Advisors 900 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 103 | Atlanta, GA 30309 | 404.705.1570 view our listings at ColdwellBankerAtlanta.com

©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC. 4588NRTDA_4/11

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Real Estate Briefs The Marketing Directors have announced the sellout of all 300 condominiums at Paramount at Buckhead located at 3445 Stratford Road. The Marketing Directors created and implemented an aggressive marketing campaign designed to sell out the final 20 homes by April 31. They beat the goal date by a month, selling 20 homes in 90 days and placing Paramount number two in total sales for the first quarter of 2011 in the Buckhead submarket and number three in total sales in Atlanta. themarketingdirectorsinc.com or paramountatlanta.com At press time, only two homes remained at Rockhaven Homes’ Enclave at Peachtree Dunwoody in the Buckhead/Brookhaven area. The homebuilder’s luxury homes at Honour Circle in Buckhead sold out in just four months. The community has the advantage of being located just inside I-285 but within the city limits of the City of Sandy Springs and in the attendance area for the highly-ranked Fulton County Schools. The two remaining homes at Enclave at Peachtree Dunwoody are scheduled to be ready for movein this summer before school starts. The homes are priced at $599,900 and $669,900. rockhavencommunities.com

The Park at East Paces

San Diego-based developer OliverMcMillan has officially acquired The Streets of Buckhead project and renamed it Buckhead Atlanta. Prior to OliverMcMillan’s involvement, the project was one of the highest profile developments in the country halted by the economic downturn and financing drought. Work is slated to begin later this year with a new estimated completion date of 2013. The firm will work to evolve the architectural plans and re-engage the leasing efforts on the development, leading to an additional $300 million investment to complete the project, beyond the nearly $400 million spent to date.

OliverMcMillan.com/Buckhead-Atlanta Midtown-based Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh & Associates has just completed master plans for Decatur and Doraville. Both cities unanimously approved the plans recently. The Decatur plan is the city’s second 10-year plan, while Doraville’s plan focuses on the former General Motors plant closed last year, leaving the 165-acre site vacant and ripe for development.

Cotton Mill – originally the Fulton Bag & Cotton Mill built in 1881– include one bedrooms, from the $130s, and two bedrooms from the $170s. Minutes from Freedom Park and shopping and dining, the New York-style loft homes, at 170 Boulevard in Atlanta, offer skyline and courtyard views and controlled access entry and parking.

Other features at the pet-friendly property include: loft-style ceilings with exposed wood timbers, European-style vanities and kitchens, quartz countertops in kitchens and baths, concrete floors and a stainless steel appliance package (gas stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher).

Almost as plentiful as the amenities are the number of options on the market today in condos, townhomes and lofts – with low interest rates proving just as appealing.

As Williamson points out, “while the past several years have been challenging for real estate, now is a smart time to buy” thanks to those low rates.

“Homeownership is still important to the consumer and is considered a lifestyle investment,” adds Williamson. “With condo, townhome, and loft communities that offer a value proposition (competitive price, lifestyle, location) sales are occurring.”

The Stacks at Fulton Cotton Mill

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Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has launched an enhanced version of its website, ColdwellBankerAtlanta.com. Re-thought and redesigned, the site features optimizations that improve the experience of searching for a home. Features include more simplified search of more than 100,000 listings in the metro area, featured properties, interactive maps, community profiles and integration with social media.

Law firm Morris, Manning & Martin and Dewberry Capital reached an agreement to negotiate a lease for the firm to take the top six floors (roughly 140,000 square feet) of the Campanile Building in Midtown. “We had many quality options to choose from in Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead, including renewing our lease at the Atlanta Financial Center,” said Morris, Manning & Martin Managing Partner Louise Wells. “Each option presented us with compelling and difficult choices. Ultimately, this landmark building’s prime location at the corner of 14th and Peachtree, Dewberry Capital’s proven track record and their commitment to renovate were pivotal factors in our decision. This is a positive strategic move for us.” Morris, Manning & Martin’s headquarters have been in the Atlanta Financial Center in Buckhead since 1987, when the firm had just 26 lawyers. The firm currently has over 350 lawyers and staff.

Home ReBuilders is celebrating 30 years in the remodeling buiness this year and the occasion as marked with a party at Mason Murer Gallery in April. Clients, friends and vendors gathered for the event, which was sponsored by Carolina Lumber, Ferguson Enterprises and SunTrust Bank. homerebuilders.com.

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IN Your Home

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

With Atlanta’s mostly temperate climate, outdoor rooms and porches are a staple of many homes. We asked our readers, designers and remodelers to submit photos of outdoor spaces and porches to create this pictorial. Whether its space for enter taining or just a place to lounge and wile away a few hours, you’re sure to find inspiration with these projects.

Left) The owners wanted to make their exterior deck a focal point and incorporate specialty features - like wood design pickets, steps within the deck and a hot tub. AK Complete Home Renovations completed the project. Find out more at akcompletehomerenovations. com.

Right) William Moseley submitted this photo of his outdoor room on the sixth floor of the Museum Tower condo tower in Downtown.

With comfy lounge chairs, a dining table, plants, statuary and a great view of the city, this is a great urban oasis.

Left) The concept of an outdoor room doesn’t always have to be connected to a home. The Outdoor Reading Room (created with the Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library, which provides reading material at the park) at Downtown’s Woodruff Park has become a favorite destination for those on their lunch breaks. For more about the Outdoor Reading Room, visit atlantadowntown.com.

Right) Randall Fox and Patrick Dennis created this cozy studio space with lots of windows to let in plenty of light. You can sit back and enjoy reading a book, paint, write or pursue other artistic endeavors, Fox says.

Left) Environs Residential Design Build added this porch to an Intown home for the owners who were looking for more outdoor seating space and room for growing and maintaining their plants For more about Environ’s projects, visit environsresidential.com Right) This spectacular rooftop terrace is at The Wilburn House on Piedmont Park in Midtown.

With outdoor seating and colorful plantings, this terrace is the perfect place for a party or just hanging out enjoying the city view. Oh, and the two bedroom, two bath unit is for sale! Contact Carolyn E. Calloway at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage at (404) 262-1234 for details.

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Left) The owners of this Tudor-style home created a large screened porch area, which features removable glass windows so the space can be used year-round.

Living, dining, watching television and entertaining at the bar.

Right) MOSAIC Group Architects & Remodelers added a rustic porch to this boxy, 1970s-era home in Sandy Springs creating additional outdoor living space. The owner is an outdoorsman and wanted heavy timber and stone to create a mountain architectural feel. A new front walkway, fountain, patio and seating adds to the rustic feel. For more about MOSAIC, mosaicgroupatlanta.com.

Left) Wendy Sugarman Lowden submitted this image of her small back deck, which proves an outdoor room can be any size. With two comfy lounge chairs, colorful rugs and plants, this is the perfect Intown oasis.

Right) Hawthorn Design and Construction created this outdoor room with an open ceiling design to create space and height. With the whirling ceiling fan, this addition will be a cool space to hang out in the summer and year round. For more about Hawthorn and it’s work, visit hawthorninc.com.

Get performance improvement where it really counts – in your wallet.

More than half of our project costs were covered

by Georgia Power rebates, SHINE rebates, and tax credits.

Have an outdoor room photo to share?

Submit your photos to collin@atlantaintownpaper.com and we might use it in an upcoming edition of INtown.

— KIM P. • ATLANTA

City of Atlanta homeowners are now eligible for rebates up to $3,500!

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Gardening Walt Harrison

Preparing for summer Summer is fast approaching but I’m not ready to let spring go just yet.

There was one bloomer in particular this year that really caught my eye and I’m sure you noticed it as well. Bridal Wreath Spirea (Spirea reevesiana) was the graceful arching shrub with pure white flowers covering the entire plant. It was the star of the show and I saw a great planting at Oakland Cemetery along with several other spots all around town. You should consider this plant for your garden.

Now is still a good time to plant and you will be able to find Bridal Wreath Spirea at your local garden center. It is usually offered in a 3-gallon container (a good size) and is very easy to plant and grow. It will reach a height of four to six feet and is slightly wider than tall and therefore weeps so needs a bit of room. The plant will take full sun all day but will tolerate light shade.

As the weather grows warmer, you will

need to make sure you provide this plant with sufficient and even water for the plant to survive the summer. This would also be true of anything planted in the last few months.

I find that watering instructions are often confusing. If one does not water enough, the plant dies. Water too much, the plant dies. What to do? Maybe a little background first. All newly planted flowers, shrubs and trees need supplemental water - that is, water not provided by rainfall – during the spring and summer months.

After two years, a plant properly installed with good soil preparation needs very little supplemental watering.

A good rule of thumb is that a thorough soaking twice a week should be sufficient, consistency being extremely important.

Do not let the plant dry out and observe it closely from time to time. If it looks happy and healthy and the foliage is standing up, you are watering just right. If the leaves are dropping, check the soil immediately surrounding the plant. If it is dry, water more; if it is wet, you may be watering too much. The systems are the same. I honestly believe that many more plants are killed in Atlanta by too much water than not enough.

It’s the usual “too much of a good thing” syndrome.

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TURN-KEY PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICES

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DIRECTORIES

CLEANING SERVICE

Seniors - Working Mom’s - Single Parents

Do you need assistance around the house?

Available Monday-Friday

Please call Ms. Gardiner

404-586-0002 ext 302

INSURANCE

Auto - Home - Commercial

WILLIAM H. KELLY (404) 876 3180

678-995-5017

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

ELECTRICIAN

Painting Services

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial

The Switch is ON!

Call James (404) 886-2889

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FURNITURE REPAIR Since 1969 Metro Atlanta

Linton Furniture Shop Refinishing • Repairs • Touch-ups

-Pro pickup and Delivery -On-site service at your home or office -Complete workshop refinishing/repairs

Danny Linton

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JackPaint@msn.com 770-978-9462 LANDSCAPING

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ORGANIZING HOMES & Home Offices Call Becky, Organizing Goddess

404-982-7128 18 Years Experience

Business Private Investigators Asset, Corporate, & Financial Former U.S. Agents / BBB A+ Rated Serving Major Metro U.S. Cities

Renovation Coach Jesse Morado

Protecting Your Home During a Renovation

a need for cleanliness, and indoor air quality are all reasons for managing dust. Make sure that all air registers within the work zone are blocked off where demolition or dust will be generated during construction. Failing to do so will draw dust into your ductwork and your HVAC filter will become clogged affecting your systems efficiency.

Tape plastic over doorways between the work zone and areas outside the work zone. Make sure that the plastic is secured tightly around the opening to keep dust from being drawn in each time air changes in air pressure occur. A zipper door allows workers to come and go between these areas while maintaining the barrier. Large pieces of furniture that cannot be relocated from the work zone should be moved to a safe zone and completely covered before any work takes place. If your renovation is taking place during warm weather months, opening a window and setting a box fan in the opening so that dust is sucked out of the work zone is extremely helpful in managing dust.

Lastly, make sure you cover furniture, appliances, counter tops and other personal belongings that cannot be removed from the work zone before any work commences.

Take pictures to memorialize their existing condition prior to work beginning.

These simple protection measures will help you survive your remodeling project and keep dust, debris, and damage to finishes to a minimum.

Any remodeling project, no mater how large or small will create a mess. Demolition, cutting wood, drywall, painting, and flooring work all contribute to the dust and mess. Protecting existing finishes and areas outside of the work zone during a renovation is key to maintaining a reasonably clean home during a renovation.

Protect your trees, shrubs, sprinkler heads, pool and deck surfaces and driveway.

Heavy delivery trucks can damage your driveway, lawn and trees. If trees overhang your drive, you may want to have these trimmed back to prevent damage from trucks. If a dumpster will be placed on your driveway, it is a good idea to lay protective sheathing under it to protect your drive from spills and gouging from the dumpster.

Floor protection will keep your floors from being damaged while contractors traffic between the work zone and the door. A heavy-duty plastic laid over carpeted areas secured with an adhesive backed carpet protection or painters tape around the perimeter of the room will keep carpets clean during your renovation. Hardwood floors should be covered with a resin paper taped at the seams and taped with painters tape at the perimeter. Masking and duct tape applied to hardwoods can harm the finish so be sure to only use painter tape. If you will be experiencing heavy demolition, you may consider laying sheets of thin sheathing, Jesse Morado is President of Renovation (plywood, OSB, or hardboard sheathing) Coach, Inc. a consulting firm providing preover the paper to prevent damage. This construction guidance and risk management protection can also be applied over tile or for homeowners. renovationcoach.com stone floors.

Dust protection is very important during empire-atlantaintown-12th-REV.pdf a renovation. Family members with allergies,3/19/11 4:10:11 PM

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46 INtown | June 2011

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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

DECATUR. 1925 brick bungalow in MAK District. High ceilings, hardwood floors, French doors, plantation shutters.

3Bed,1.5Bath. $349,900 Miriam Mathura 404-210-1715 FMLS: 4216405

AMBERWOOD. Spacious 4Bed,4.5Bath home near Emory/CDC. Features hardwoods, gourmet kit, lrg greatroom w/wet bar, huge back deck. $500,000 Stephen Simonson 404-326-0876 MLS: 4199672

Luxury Properties need Previews Marketing

DECATUR. Hilltop setting backing up to 27 acre park! 4 sided brick ranch, hardwoods, close to Emory/CDC. 4Bed,3Bath $299,500 Ann Hudson 404-307-9902 FMLS: 4217627

LAVISTA PARK. Renovation with new kitchen, large master suite, tons of storage space, lovely deck opens to private rear yard. 5Bed,4Bath. $398,900 Nelson Brown 404-276-8928 FMLS: 4218363

Agent of the Month

DECATUR. One of a kind high end renovation featuring exquisite tile work & your dream kitchen, oversized lot with gorgeous views.

4Bed,3.5Bath $549,900 Beth Smith 678-595-4448 FMLS: 4213311

DECATUR. Last available lot on historic Adams St. located in MAK District.

Walk to downtown Decatur. $399,900 Miriam Mathura 404-210-1715 FMLS: 4195360

BUCKHEAD. Beautiful 1.5+ acre lot in wonderful Pine Hills, close to all that Buckhead has to offer. $499,000 Kay Goldstein 404-784-0937 FMLS: 4209040 & 4209055

DECATUR. New construction from Stoney River Homes. Work with builder to customize your dream home. Late Fall completion. 5Bed,4Bath. $679,900 Kathleen Sickeler 404-368-3234 FMLS: 4216663

Sally Westmoreland

MORNINGSIDE. 4 BR/3.5 BA fully renovated oversized bungalow with 1 car garage on cul-de-sac street around the corner from the shops/restaurants of Morningside. $639,000 Sally Westmoreland 404-354-4845

VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. Deceivingly spacious 3BR/3BA VA-HI bungalow w/beautiful front porch. New master suite up, kit open to family room, lower level rec room all overlook lush rear green space. $599,000.

Sally Westmoreland 404-354-4845

GRANT PARK. Gorgeous home with tons of upgrades! Features hardwoods, built-ins, walk-in closet, 2 car garage, screened porch.

3Bed,2.5Bath $369,900 Kathleen Sickeler 404-368-3234 FMLS: 4216011

MORNINGSIDE. Thoughtfully renovated w/gracious formal living & dining rooms, Viking & Sub Zero granite kit, custom closets. 3Bed,2.5Bath. $899,900 Marc Castillo 404-449-6862 FMLS: 4127560

OAKHURST. All brick new construction Tudor w/ porte cochere, chef’s kitchen, spacious master, 2 car garage, fenced yard. 5Bed,3.5Bath $599,900 Melissa Stratton 404-713-5850 FMLS: 4219866

Any House • Any Where!

Jason Downey 404-593-5176

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.

404-874-2262

... We never stop moving!

404-354-4845

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, L L C , – 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 n ot war ran ted – E q u al Hou s i n g O p p ortu n i ty

48 INtown | June 2011

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