Newcomer Magazine | Summer 2023

Summer 2023

Summer 2023 CONTENTS

Atlanta’s River Escape

From boating to fishing to nature, the local charm of the Chattahoochee River has it all and is metro Atlanta’s outdoor playground.

Preparing Students for a Career

How schools are helping your child get a head start on early preparation and navigating the college path.

Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods

Whether you’re looking to live inside or outside the Perimeter, north, south or somewhere in between, our guide to Atlanta’s neighborhoods will help you find your next home.

Easy Weekend Getaways

There’s a lot to see in Atlanta—and there’s even more to explore nearby. From mountain getaways to bustling city streets, we’ve rounded up four excellent weekend getaway ideas.

In Focus

The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta. Homes and Communities.

A half-hour south of Atlanta, Henry County is a charming community with a hub of history, commerce, culture and stock car racing.

Neighborhood Spotlight

The Virginia-Highland area is a tree-lined haven of historic homes, casual restaurants, friendly watering holes and trendy boutiques.

School

With a strong focus on experiential learning and a connection to the environment, High Meadows School helps children develop to their full potential.

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18

24

35

A guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including county information, neighborhoods, relocation tips and more. Upcoming

Get caught up on the best exhibitions, theatrical productions, special events and live music across the metro area.

Hidden Atlanta

40

42

Tucked away in Buckhead, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA) is a venue that was founded by an artist for artists.

We wish to thank all the people who made this publication possible through their valuable time and dedication. Many thanks to our advertisers for their support of Newcomer magazine.

publisher/president Patrick Killam pkillam@killampublishing.com

editor Everett Catts

marketing & promotions

Jeff Thompson

contributing writers

Anna Bentley, H.M. Cauley, Kevin Forest Moreau, Donna Neale, Lindsay Oberst

director of sales & marketing Patrick Killam pkillam@killampublishing.com

account director Lacey James advertising@killampublishing.com

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Newcomer magazine, Summer 2023, Volume 27, Issue 2. Submissions, photography or ideas may be sent to Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Submissions will not be returned unless otherwise requested and accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Newcomer magazine reserves the right to revise submissions as necessary. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication are strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2023 Killam Publishing, Inc.

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inFOCUS

NEWS BITES FROM AROUND ATLANTA

A STELLAR

STUDENT

Atlanta International School senior Asanshay Gupta was recently named the school’s STAR student of the year. During his time at AIS, Asanshay designed the Oxygen Planner App to help health care workers plan oxygen demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, and created The Ingenuity Challenge to encourage students around the world to create solutions to local problems. Asanshay named Peluchi Flores, the school’s director of innovation, as his STAR teacher for her role in shaping his academic development. Congratulations to both!

TWO HOT SHOWS TO KEEP YOU COOL

As the temperatures climb over the summer months, Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta offers a couple of excuses to relax in the air-conditioned comfort of the Fox Theatre. First up is Hairspray, the colorful stage musical based on the 1988 movie of the same name, which runs May 30 through June 4. The following month, it’s the return of Wicked, the award-winning story of Galinda and Elphaba, who would come to be known as Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West, July 5-30. foxtheatre.org.

Kick off the Weekend in Style

There’s no better way to celebrate the start of the weekend than Fridays-N-Duluth. Every Friday through July from 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy a festive atmosphere with food trucks and great live music. And keep an eye out for special theme nights including Pride (June 2), DFAL Art Walk with the Duluth Fine Arts League (June 9) and Dog Days of Summer (June 16). For more information, visit duluthga.net.

Rock the Blocks

Fans of the world’s most popular building blocks are in for a treat with the relaunched and rebranded Lego Discovery Center Atlanta. This all-new immersive experience offers even more fun and educational workshops and experiences. Create your own custom minifigure, design and build your own Lego spaceship (and launch it into cyberspace) and race through a giant virtual-reality Lego world! For tickets, visit legodiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

PHOTO: Jeremy Daniel

PHOTO: Merlin Entertainment

Time for a Celebration!

Oak Meadow Montessori School is celebrating its 30th year of providing a quality Montessori education to students in the Lawrenceville area and Gwinnett County. Founded in 1993, the school has served more than 2,000 students age 3 through sixth grade. In other local Montessori news, Springmont School, the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, has named Elizabeth Lener (photo below) as its new head of school.Congratulations to all!

You’ve Never Seen Disney Like This

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping inside the worlds of your favorite animated Disney films, you’re going to love Immersive Disney Animation in the new Armour Yards development. This one-of-a-kind experience uses state-of-the-art project, sound and interactive technology to surround you with the sights, songs and stories of classics like “The Lion King,” “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Zootopia” and “Frozen.” For tickets, visit lighthouseimmersion.com/disney/atlanta.

PHOTO: Kyle Flubacker

RIVER

By Everett Catts

The

Chattahoochee

Offers Ways

to De-Stress from the Daily Grind

Palm Warbler near the Chattahoochee River

Given the name “rocks-marked” or “painted rock” by the Native Americans’ Muskogee tribe, Georgia’s Chattahoochee River dates back 100 million years. Spanning 430 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Florida border, where it meets the Apalachicola and Flint rivers, the Chattahoochee was used by indigenous people for transportation, fishing and water collection.

Today the river is still a vital resource, providing 70 percent of metro Atlanta’s drinking water, or more than 300 gallons per day. It also is a major source of electricity, with 12 hydroelectric dams located along the Chattahoochee. But it also has become the

metro area’s playground, offering a variety of recreation and sports activities for adults and children alike.

Country singer Alan Jackson, who grew up near the river in Coweta County, paid tribute to it with the 1992 song “Chattahoochee.”

Yeah, way down yonder on the Chattahoochee Never knew how much that muddy water meant to me

WHERE TO ENJOY THE RIVER

With 15 park units along a 48-mile stretch of the river, the National Park Service’s Chat-

has a Parks as Classrooms program where teachers can get curriculum materials and take students on field trips.

And there’s plenty to study. The CRNRA has nearly 360 animal species and 944 vascular plant species combined on its park properties. Superintendent Ann Honious says the CRNRA stands out because “the Chattahoochee corridor possesses those nationally significant resources that it takes to be a national park.”

“There’s also historic resources,” she added. “The park offers multiple opportunities within our scenic river corridor to pursue outdoor recreation, reconnect with nature and discover history.”

But with parking at a premium in most parks, Honious says park visitors should plan ahead and visit the CRNRA’s website for details on where to park. Also, each park unit has a $5 entrance fee that can be paid online.

Since the parks don’t provide boats or equipment for visitors, they can be rented by contacting Shoot the Hooch or the Nantahala Outdoor Center.

down yonder on the Chattahoochee

tahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) offers an abundance of activities for people in metro Atlanta and beyond. Established in 1978 and opening two years later, the park system started with 345,956 visitors in 1980. Last year it had 3.5 million visitors and was the 21st most-visited federal park among 423 park units in the nation.

In 2012, it received the designation of the Chattahoochee River NRA Water Trail as the first National Water Trail. The CRNRA's park units offer places to launch boats for canoeing, kayaking and rafting; trails for walking, hiking, biking and running; places to go swimming and fishing and endless opportunities to study nature. In fact, the park system

ROSWELL’S RIVER PARKS

But the federal government isn’t the only one with parks showcasing the Chattahoochee’s offerings, as many cities and counties along the river also have parks. With seven parks located along the river, including two in partnership with Fulton County, the city of Roswell may have more riverfront parks than any city in Georgia.

“That is truly what sets us apart in our region. Folks move to Roswell for all the right reasons: safe community, good services and good schools, but when it comes to the park system, that is what we have that no other neighboring community has: the river,” says Post 5 Roswell City Councilman

PHOTO: (Top Right) Courtesy of the City of Roswell

Yeah, way

Never knew how much that muddy water meant to me

dA fisherman launches his boat on the banks of the Chattahoochee River.

Will Morthland, the city’s recreation and parks department liaison.

Morthland says when he and his family moved to metro Atlanta from Birmingham, Alabama, they chose Roswell partly because of its riverside parks and the plethora of activities they offer. At least one park, Riverside, hosts a free monthly concert series.

PEACE AMONG THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE

The CRNRA represents 20 percent of metro Atlanta’s greenspace. “It provides great opportunities to get out in nature in an urban area,” Hoinous says. “You can be pretty close to

the city, or if you go to the northernmost units, it’s pretty remote where you can have that solitude in nature, though we have a variety of opportunities.”

That’s the feeling Shawn Winter, who with his wife moved from Iowa to Cobb County in June 2020, gets when he’s home. They live in an apartment along the Chattahoochee by the Fulton County line. Their apartment complex has several places to sit by the river and enjoy its serenity, as well as spots to put your own or rented boats into the river.

“I’m down there at least on a weekly basis if not multiple times a week, especially in warmer weather,” Winter, a Kansas native, says of the chances to sit by the Chattahoochee. “That’s the big one for us, growing up in the Midwest and moving to a big city and landing at a place like this where we often say we don’t even feel like we’re living in the city because of living here … right next to the river. It’s oftentimes a place of rest for us and a reprieve from the business of city life and the work we’re doing.”

WHAT’S NEXT

The National Park Service and Georgia municipalities are partnering with the Trust for Public Land to help create the Chattahoochee RiverLands, which, when completed, would form 100 miles of new riverfront trails and parks connecting 19 cities across seven counties, from Forsyth south to Troup, according

to the Trust’s website. It will build 42 access points and eight campsites.

In Atlanta, plans are underway to build Riverwalk Atlanta, a new park with a five-mile greenway along the Chattahoochee with 500 acres of greenspace. Created from the acquisition of 17 properties, it will connect to both the Proctor Creek Greenway and Silver Comet Trail.

So grab your gear and your family and head to your nearest park to see everything the Chattahoochee has to offer.

dAn artist sets up along the bridge to paint a picture of the river.

PHOTO: (Bottom Left) Courtesy of the City of Roswell

Henry

LOW COST OF LIVING AND A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE

County Charm

By H.M. Cauley

Close enough to Atlanta to take advantage of its employment, recreation and cultural centers, Henry County shares a close connectivity with the metro area. Henry’s 245,000 residents, spread out over four cities and a handful of unincorporated communities, enjoy both a low cost of living and a high quality of life.

After all, there’s something about strolling on a charming courthouse square or shopping

in a historic downtown district that balances the hustle and bustle of everyday big-city living with a peaceful, one-of-a-kind charm.

HISTORY AND HOUSING

Named for Patrick Henry, the founding father best known for his “give me liberty or give me death” speech, Henry County was founded in 1821 and originally claimed a much larger geographic footprint than it does today: Butts, Clayton, DeKalb, Newton, Rockdale and

Spalding counties were all formed from parts of Henry. During the Civil War, the area was considered one of the leading counties in the state.

The fast-growing county is home to a young population with a median age of 37, and boasts a median household income of $73,491, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. The housing boom of the 1990s and early 2000s was good for the county, as land was available and affordable and

PHOTO: Visit Henry County, GA

Southern Belle Farm

attractive to buyers who liked being able to hop on Interstate 75 for a quick drive to downtown Atlanta. The county’s median home price is $202,300, just below the state median of $206,700.

The highest concentration of residents can be found in the county’s four main cities— McDonough, Stockbridge, Locust Grove and Hampton—each with its own attractions and charm.

The county’s premier residential community

surrounds the Eagle’s Landing Country Club in Stockbridge. Pocket developments nestle up to the 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed courses where houses often sell above the half-million mark. Club members enjoy golf as well as tennis, swimming and other amenities. More upscale properties ring the edge of Lake Dow on McDonough’s eastern edge.

BUSINESS AND EDUCATION

Henry County is home to a bustling business

community, with employers including the Federal Aviation Administration, which staffs the Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center in Hampton. Major corporations with a presence in the county are Briggs & Stratton, Home Depot, Goodyear Tires and Ken’s Foods. The Henry County Chamber of Commerce works with hundreds of member organizations, from large corporations to small locally owned businesses, to chart a course for the area’s continued prosperity. u

Named for Patrick Henry, the founding father best known for his “give me liberty or give me death” speech, Henry County was founded in 1821.

Hampton Depot

Noah's Ark

Locust Grove train watching platform Tanger Outlets

Among the county’s major employers is Piedmont Henry Hospital, a 259-bed medical facility in Stockbridge staffed by more than 750 physicians and over 500 nurses. Part of the Piedmont Healthcare system, the hospital provides 24-hour emergency care and a range of medical, surgical and diagnostic services.

The leading employer in Henry County is the county itself: The government and the public school system together employ about 7,700 workers. Henry County Schools serves the region’s students with 28 elementary, 11 middle and 10 high schools. In addition, more than a dozen independent schools are scattered across the area.

COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

McDonough, the county seat, leads the way in setting the tone for the county’s laid-back lifestyle. About 30 minutes from Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, this town of 30,000 has worked hard to keep its connections to history intact, starting with the 1920s-style gas station that doubles as the town’s welcome center.

The city square, dominated by a red-brick courthouse built in 1897, is home to a variety of events throughout the year, many of which are sponsored by the nonprofit McDonough Arts Council, dedicated to hosting arts events throughout the year. It’s also the home of the Henry Players community theater company, which has staged such favorites as “Titanic,” “Les Misérables” and “Sweeney Todd” since its formation in 1991.

One of the town’s main attractions is its Heritage Park, a 129-acre site of ball fields, walking trails, playgrounds, picnic pavilions and an event center. The park is also home to Historic Village, a hands-on museum that educates visitors about Henry’s history, with an old schoolhouse, a 1934 steam locomotive and an 1827 settlers’ cabin. Another nearby draw is Southern Belle Farm, a working 330-acre farm that offers a variety of family activities throughout the year.

On the county’s southside, the small city of Locust Grove, population 9,750, is home to Noah’s Ark, a nonprofit animal rehabilitation center that invites visitors to view some of its extraordinary inhabitants, including tigers,

bears and baboons. Another destination for residents and visitors alike is the expansive Tanger Outlets mall, featuring such major manufacturers as Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren, the Gap, Old Navy and Nike.

The city of Stockbridge, in the county’s northeast section, boasts the highest number of residents, with 29,163. Its location just 13 miles from the airport and its proximity to both I-75 and I-675 make it a major draw for newcomers in search of easy commutes to the rest of the metro area. The city maintains four public park complexes, with walking trails and tracks, playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis courts and bike paths.

Stockbridge is also a hub of the county’s arts scene, serving as home to the Academy Theatre, one of the oldest professional companies in the state, as well as the Southern Crescent Symphony Orchestra. The city is also where the rock band Collective Soul and Martin Luther King Sr. were born, with the latter preaching his first sermon there. And Stockbridge High School is where Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II,

PHOTOS: (Atlanta Motor Speedway) Pro Studio at the Garden Cottage; (All Others) Visit Henry County, GA

Birdsong Books

Atlanta Motor Speedway

French Market Tavern

Bushy Tail Art Trail

Heritage Park Veterans Museum

the 2022 National League Rookie of the Year, graduated from.

Former Brave Jason Heyward, today with the Los Angeles Dodgers, also grew up in the county and graduated from now-defunct Henry County High School. Several former and current pro football players also hail from the county.

The city of Hampton, with 8,346 residents, is home to the Henry Arts Alliance, which sponsors cultural and educational events in the county and the surrounding area. But it’s best known for Atlanta Motor Speedway, an 870-acre race facility hailed as the largest sporting venue in the state. The speedway is a leading venue for NASCAR events in the Southeast, with room for some 125,000 spectators. A visit to the track can be a daylong affair, with tailgating, dining, musical performances and more.

Whether you’re looking for high-octane racing thrills or small-town charm, Henry County has plenty to offer. The area’s affordable housing, plentiful culture and recreation, and convenient access to Atlanta make it a great place to call home.

ESSENTIAL INFO

Henry County Government co.henry.ga.us

Henry County Chamber of Commerce henrycounty.com

McDonough mcdonoughga.org

Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com

Hampton hamptonga.gov

Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov

Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us

Academy Theatre academytheatre.org

Atlanta Motor Speedway atlantamotorspeedway.com

Eagle’s Landing Country Club eagleslandingcc.com

Henry Arts Alliance henryartsalliance.org

Henry Players henryplayers.com

Heritage Park n-georgia.com/heritage-park.html

McDonough Arts Council mcdonoughartscouncil.org

Noah’s Ark noahs-ark.org

Piedmont Henry Hospital piedmont.org/locations/piedmonthenry/about

Southern Belle Farm southernbellefarm.com

Tanger Outlets tangeroutlet.com/locustgrove

SPOTLIGHT neighborhood

Virginia-Highland

By Lindsay Oberst

Apedestrian-friendly neighborhood just east of Midtown’s Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s VirginiaHighland area attracts a mix of young professionals and families who stroll its tree-lined sidewalks, enjoying a charming array of casual restaurants, friendly watering holes and trendy shops.

Housing

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Virginia-Highland is known for its bungalows, Tudors and homes from the early 1900s. The median home price is $839,500, up 29.2% from the last year, but the current homes for sale go as low as the high $300s. Apartment communities include the Grace Apartment Homes Highland (470-8238966), which features one- and two-bedroom units that include expansive kitchens with a breakfast bar in some homes.

Opening in April, The Roycraft condos (404-777-4786) offer one-, two-, and threebedroom and penthouse Craftsman-style homes priced from the $400s to $1.2 million and located on the BeltLine.

Culinary Treats

Some of the city’s best food can be found here. Murphy’s (404-872-0904) is a popular destination for weekend brunch. Kinship Butcher Sundry (404-343-4374), which houses Academy Coffee, offers the finest cuts of meat in the area and also serves breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Pielands Sub & Slice sells round and square pizzas whole and by the slice, plus subs and salads.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar (404-

THE INSIDE TRACK:

Virginia-Highland has been voted Best

Overall Neighborhood by readers of Creative Loafing three times, and was named Favorite Neighborhood Overall by Atlanta Magazine.

876-7249), the oldest continuously licensed tavern in the city, is a neighborhood institution praised for its modern comfort food. Want dessert? Try Paolo’s Gelato (404-607-0055) for homemade gelato, marzipan and other treats.

Local Treasures

The area is known for its diverse shopping. Dakota J’s (404-870-0690) showcases women’s clothing, accessories and jewelry. Bridge Boutique (470-355-3929) specializes in women’s clothing plus furniture, gifts and candles and beauty and wellness products.

Or me Park is a small gem of greenspace dotted with play areas for kids. Academy Coffee (academycoffeeatl.com) serves teas and coffees, the latter of which it sources from the top roasters stateside and abroad.

Arts and Entertainment

The neighborhood’s annual Summerfest (vahisummerfest.org) is an arts and music festival staged each June. Blind Willie’s (404-8732583) is home to some of the city’s finest blues artists. Limerick Junction (404-874-7147) is the city’s oldest Irish pub and a haven for local musicians. For live rock-band karaoke, head to the 10 High Club, which is located below Dark Horse Tavern (404-873-3607). N

Blind Willie’s

Murphy’s

Kinship Butcher Sundry

The Roycraft

PHOTOS: (top far left) Jimmy Maynard

PREPARING FOR A

By Anna Bentley

CAREER

For many high school students, deciding on a possible career can be a daunting decision. The options seem almost endless, and it can be hard to successfully translate interests into viable career options. Luckily, Georgia’s public and independent schools are dedicated to helping students wade the sometimes-murky waters of career preparation. By implementing special programs, offering enriching cocurricular activities and developing personal connections with students, Georgia’s schools are committed to getting students on the path to a bright future.

PROVIDING INDIVIDUALIZED GUIDANCE

One of the biggest advantages of independent schools is their smaller size, which allows counselors and advisors to make personal connections with students, helping to inform conversations about possible careers, college majors and college selections.

“This is addressed in several different ways,” says Krista Parker, the Atlanta Girls’ School’s middle and upper school director. Beginning with their junior year, students at the school go through a three-step process that starts with

How Schools Help Students

Prepare

for a Bright Future

meetings with the college counselor to determine what their interests are and the colleges that could match them.

“Secondly, we require all of our students to complete two 70-hour internships while enrolled at AGS. These internships help students to see what the ‘real world’ looks like and helps them to not only see what careers they may want to pursue but also which ones they don’t! Third and probably most importantly is our commitment to establishing partnerships with organizations outside of the classroom. We connect our students with professionals in

the science and technology field as well as the business and finance community.”

Small school sizes also help advance the counseling process. At Pace Academy, for instance, preparations can begin as early as ninth and 10th grade, with informational meetings for parents and students. And at Atlanta Girls’ School, the college counseling process begins in 10th grade with small group meetings with college representatives. Students are encouraged to explore academic interests both in and outside the classroom, by either doubling up

on core classes like math, science or English or exploring interests through electives or cocurricular/extracurricular activities.

At Atlanta Girls’ School, weekly assemblies can host guest speakers ranging from lawyers to dog sled racers so students can learn more about careers they may or may not have considered.

Similarly, “Pace Academy’s mission is to ‘create prepared, confident citizens of the world,’ which means that we offer academic, co-curricular and extracur-

ricular programs that expose students to many areas of study and related professional opportunities,” says Caitlin Jones, Pace’s director of communications. “… For example, upper school students interested in social innovation, global health or arts and urban life may choose to become involved in our Isdell Center for Global Leadership Fellows program, a two-year, co-curricular, teambased leadership program.”

OFFERING PROGRAMS FOR SUCCESS

Providing individualized options for students is a priority in Georgia’s public schools, as well. The Georgia Department of Education (GDOE)’s Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program offers students specialized instruction in more than 120 subjects, letting them explore careers before graduation—and even earn technical certifications, in some cases.

In this program, pathways are arranged in broad career clusters (for example, students can follow a graphic design pathway in the arts, A/V technology and communications cluster). Each pathway has its own sequence

At Atlanta Girls’ School, weekly assemblies can host guest speakers ranging from lawyers to dog sled racers so students can learn more about careers they may or may not have considered.

of three specialized courses, followed by an end-of-pathway assessment. Students can pick from more than 120 pathways in 17 clusters, including finance; IT; transportation, distribution and logistics; education and training; and agriculture, food and natural resources.

Though students pick their pathways in eighth grade, the program starts early, with career awareness lessons beginning in the first grade. Later in middle school, students take a career development inventory to help drill down into careers that might interest them before developing their personal graduation plan with input from their school counselor and parents.

“Middle-school students can learn about a variety of careers through exploratory courses, and CTAE has program of study documents available to assist students with mapping their course of study in high school and postsecondary enrollment,” says Meghan Frick, the GDOE’s director of communications. “These documents also assist with providing more

information on careers associated with the Career Pathway the student is pursuing.”

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO

The path might seem clear for students who have solid ideas about their futures. But what about those who don’t know what they want to do?

Gaela Peters, school counselor and learning specialist at the Atlanta Girls’ School, says it has a weekly Education for the Development of Leadership and Service program to expose students to different careers. The school also hosts annual special events where metro-area professionals speak about their industries.

Pace has similar programs in which it invites guest speakers and alumni to “discuss a

variety of topics, with the goal of introducing students to global issues and a variety of career opportunities,” Jones says. “… Several club offerings also connect students to professionals in the Atlanta community.” But, she added, “The path toward an eventual career, however, truly starts with the college counseling process.”

Whether your child has a clear plan for what he or she wants to do, or is still struggling to figure it out, your involvement is crucial. Be involved in their education and maintain an open dialogue about their goals. Together with specialized school programs and guidance, strong parental support can help students set and achieve career goals that perfectly fit their skills and interests.

The path might seem clear for students who have solid ideas about their futures. But what about those who don’t know what they want to do?

High Meadows School Educational Adventures, Inside and Out

By Donna Neale and Everett Catts

When prospective students and their parents visit Roswell’s High Meadows School, they won’t see as many textbooks as they might expect.

What they will see is a variety of farm animals, including ponies, rabbits, goats, chickens and sheep. They’ll also see an archery range, a large barn converted into a theater and lots of rolling grassland across the 42-acre campus. That’s because the outdoors plays a large part in the school’s curriculum.

“We are an International Baccalaureate World School, but the … curriculum is centered around major thematic units of inquiry,” says Laura Nicholson, the school’s director of enrollment and advancement. “So, it’s very cross-disciplinary in its approach. For example, our second- and third-graders recently did a six-week study on DNA. In a traditional school, a class might study chapters and answer questions in a book, but in a High Meadows class, we’re hands-on.”

High Meadows is an authorized International Baccalaureate World School, guiding students from pre-K through fifth grade through its renowned Primary Years Programme. Classrooms are focused on experiential learning, both inside and outside of physical buildings, giving students unique opportunities to investigate the natural intersection of academics and environment.

The school’s commitment to progressive education is reflected throughout the curriculum. “We are a different kind of private school,” Nicholson says. “There’s a lot of emphasis on connecting to nature, spending time outdoors, learning through experience, and inquirydriving learning as opposed to a traditional school where you spend a lot of time at a desk.”

Low teacher-to-student ratios, highly qualified teachers in every class, and a multiage learning approach maximize critical thinking within a close-knit learning community.

Middle school students are immersed in a program that is both rigorous and engaging. They are encouraged to take risks, broaden their interests, and think deeply about their experiences. Emphasis is placed on the authentic learning and reflection that fosters a greater selfawareness and a commitment to their role in the world around them. Students are empowered to take responsibility for their education, setting the stage for excellence in high school and beyond.

High Meadows, which opened in 1973, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special weekend of events in November but is marking the milestone all year long. Nicholson says the school has invited its alumni and former staff members to the November events, and all four co-founders are expected to attend.

“I think High Meadows has stayed really true to a lot of the same values and principles it was founded on in the ’70s,” she added, noting the school is proud to celebrate remaining “mission driven” today.

Through its lively campus and robust programs, High Meadows offers a focused environment for transforming authentic learning into an adventure and forging exemplary education from child’s play. N

THE SPECIFICS

Grades: Age 3 years through 8th grade

Student/Teacher Ratio: Average is 15 to 1 (lower in Pre-K)

Tuition: $8,000 to $23,000 (need-based financial aid available)

Location: Roswell

Contact: 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075 770-993-2940

Web: highmeadows.org

EXPLORE THE METRO AREA’S BEST COMMUNITIES

By Anna Bentley

Moving to a new city can be daunting, and one of the first decisions you have to make may be the hardest: Which neighborhood should you call home? However, Atlanta’s diverse communities and cities offer something for everyone, including quality education, affordable housing, family-friendly events and tight-knit neighborhoods. Whatever you’re looking for, Atlanta has many perfect spots to choose from. Here we’ve got you covered, showcasing 17 of Atlanta’s most popular communities, located all around the metro area, to serve as a starting point for your exploration.

INSIDE THE PERIMETER Central

MIDTOWN F E Y

The heart of Atlanta is Midtown, the city’s second largest business district and a booming live-work-play community. Its network of walkable, tree-lined streets puts the area’s shopping, dining and employment just steps away, and access to the MARTA rail line, Interstates 75 and 85, and Amtrak put the rest of the city—and the world—within easy reach. It’s also home to city’s art district, including the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art, the Alliance Theatre, the Fox Theatre and more. And at its center are the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Piedmont Park: “Atlanta’s back yard” and the scene of numerous events and festivals throughout the year. midtownatl.com

OLD FOURTH WARD F Y

Spurred by the development of the Atlanta BeltLine, a 22-mile biking and walking trail, the “O4W” has rapidly become one of the city’s most vibrant districts and a beacon for progressive but thoughtful revitalization. Attractions in this area just northeast of downtown include Ponce City Market, a mixed-use development with premier dining and shopping; the bustling Freedom Farmers Market and Sweet Auburn Curb Market (also known as the Municipal Market); numerous restaurants and bars, several parks; and, of course, the BeltLine itself, which connects the neighborhood to the rest of the city

PHOTOS:(Opposite Top) courtesy of Jamestown; (Opposite Middle) Ash Wilson

with a walkable scenic path that features dining, art and community life along the way. Housing options range from historic bungalows to modern new townhomes, with plenty of starter options. o4wba.com

VIRGINIA-HIGHLAND F Y

Just east of Midtown is the vibrant neighborhood of Virginia-Highland (or “The Highlands”), named for the intersection of Virginia and Highland avenues at its heart. This fun, funky neighborhood is filled with eclectic shopping and diverse dining and nightlife options, including some of Atlanta’s oldest bars and pubs. Its network of short blocks and residential streets lined with historic bungalows makes it one of Atlanta’s most walkable communities. It’s also right off the BeltLine and a short walk from Piedmont Park, making it ideal for active young professionals. Its Summerfest arts and music festival is one of the largest in the Southeast. vahi.org

North

BUCKHEAD F E Y

The public face of this wealthy historic district is its Peachtree Road corridor, home to its business district and lined with high-rise offices and glitzy hotels, dining and shopping. Its private life stretches away from Peachtree in a sprawling area made up of 43 distinct and unique neighborhoods, stretching from I-285 to I-85 and making up a fifth of the city. Notable neighborhoods include Tuxedo Park, with palatial mansions nestled on rolling manicured lawns; Chastain Park, home to one of the city’s largest parks, which includes a golf course, amphitheater, equestrian center, tennis courts and a pool; and Garden Hills, with its winding, tree-lined streets. buckhead.com

East DECATUR F E Y

A vibrant city with a tight-knit community, Decatur is located just 15 minutes from Atlanta. The city puts a premium on walk ability with its historic downtown, full of charming restaurants, pubs, boutique shops and specialty stores. Events are held down

town throughout the year, including the popular Decatur Craft Beer Festival and the Decatur Book Festival. Decatur is also on the MARTA rail line, allowing for easy access to Atlanta’s top destinations and events. decaturga.com

South COLLEGE PARK F Y

College Park truly presents the best of both worlds for the rising professional who enjoys a little quiet time. Its easy proximity to downtown Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offer the convenience of big-city living balanced with a relaxing, small-town feel. The airport and the Georgia International Convention Center also make this an increasingly desirable destination for business travelers. There’s affordable housing in the historic College Park neighborhood, and there are numerous attractive dining options. The main campus of Woodward Academy, the largest independent day school in the continental United States, is located here as well. collegeparkga.com

HAPEVILLE F E

This charming city boasts a small-town feel and is the home of the Dwarf House, the first Chick-fil-A restaurant. A designated Main Street city, Hapeville takes pride in its downtown that features historic sites like

Pielands in Virginia-Highland

Artspace in Hapeville

Decatur Beer Festival

Ponce City Market

the Depot Museum and Visitor Center, the Christ Church and Carriage House, a conference center and numerous businesses. There’s also a picturesque downtown park and a unique public art program that has created a number of murals to beautify the city. Hapeville has experienced significant revitalization. Porsche Cars North America built its world headquarters and the Porsche Experience Center here in 2015. hapeville.org

West VININGS F E

This unincorporated village is unique in bordering the city of Atlanta but located in Cobb County. Situated northwest of Buckhead, Vinings offers walkable charm, quality schools, great shopping and dining and plentiful housing of every type. With recreational opportunities on the Chattahoochee River, Vinings provides easy access to the entire metro area. Generous property tax exemptions make it attractive to empty nesters and retirees. vinings.com

ADAIR PARK F Y

“Go west!” is the new watchword in Atlanta for young professionals seeking an affordable community with access to the city. Longtime residents of this community on the National Register of Historic Places are welcoming newcomers who are finding good values on existing homes with vintage charm, while trendy lofts and townhomes are springing up rapidly. An artists’ mecca, Adair Park’s location on the BeltLine has spurred the growth of small businesses and the creation of parks, with playgrounds and sports facilities as well. The neighborhood comes together to host the annual Porches and Pies Festival. adairpark.com

OUTSIDE THE PERIMETER North

SANDY SPRINGS F E Y

Directly north of Atlanta, Sandy Springs is one of Atlanta’s biggest employment

and high-end shopping destinations. Recently, Sandy Springs developed a new city center called City Springs to serve as the heart of the community. Officially completed in 2018, City Springs offers office space, greenspace, residential and retail space and a performing arts center. The city hosts the Sandy Springs Artsapalooza fine arts festival each spring and the popular City Green Live and Concerts by the Springs concert series each spring through fall. sandyspringsga.gov

Northeast

DULUTH F E

Voted one of Georgia’s best affordable suburbs by Businessweek magazine, Duluth

Duluth public art installation

Interactive Neighborhood For Kids in Gainesville

Sandy Springs

PHOTOS:(Top) City of Duluth; (Opposite Page, Bottom Right) City of Johns Creek

sports a small-town feel thanks to its familyfriendly town green and historic downtown district, filled with charming specialty shops. The Town Green, with its amphitheater and fountain, hosts community events throughout the year, such as the annual Duluth Fall Festival each September. Duluth is also home to the Atlanta Gladiators (a minor league ice hockey team) and the Gas South District, which hosts major festivals, concerts and events. The Hudgens Center for Art & Learning presents exhibits by well-known masters and local artists, with classes in pottery, drawing, painting and more for both adults and children.

duluthga.net

GAINESVILLE F E

Gainesville is a top pick for active families and nature lovers alike. Lake Lanier, on the western and northern edges of town, offers swimming, fishing and camping options, while the Blue Ridge Mountains just north of town are another perfect option for hiking or camping. The city’s Interactive Neighborhood for Kids and Quinlan Visual Arts Center are just two of its many family-friendly attractions. Gainesville has also been recognized by AARP as one of its top 10 affordable places to retire. Retirees can tee up at the Chattahoochee Golf Club, take a swim at the Frances Meadows Aquatic Center and enjoy an abundance of recreational opportunities. gainesville.org

JOHNS CREEK F Y

Just a neighborhood 17 years ago, Johns Creek officially became its own municipality in 2006—and it hasn’t stopped growing since. The young, affluent city boasts some of metro Atlanta’s top schools and the awardwinning Technology Park mixed-use development, which hosts several Fortune 500 companies. And with the Chattahoochee River forming a large part of the city’s southern and eastern boundaries, Johns Creek offers plenty of options for outdoor recreation— including miles of recreational trails, such as the Johns Creek Greenway, a 4.2-mile trail system; and the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, which sits on 46 acres of woodlands. johnscreekga.gov

LILBURN F E

With an estimated population of about 15,000, this Gwinnett County city is one of the smaller ones on this list, but that makes a big difference when it comes to its sense of small-town community. Top attractions include the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest traditional Hindu temple of its kind in the world outside of India; Lilburn City Park; and the Camp Creek Greenway: a 4.2-mile paved and gravel trail. Lilburn has experienced substantial growth in recent years, and has recently completed a new city hall and library complex and revitalized its downtown corridors. cityoflilburn.com

Northwest SMYRNA F E

Attractive neighborhoods, a thriving downtown and plentiful greenspace are highlights of this Cobb County city, which in the 1980s was one of the area’s first to complete a master plan for revitalization. Its Williamsburg-style Village Green is now the scene of many annual concerts and festivals and a vibrant town center hosting the city hall, library and community center; along with shopping, office space and residential options. Residents also have access to more than 33 additional acres of parks and greenspace, all located within one mile of downtown. With immediate access to I-75 and I-285, Smyrna is minutes away from virtually everywhere in Atlanta. smyrnaga.gov u

Food truck in Lilburn

Johns Creek on the Chattahoochee

WOODSTOCK F E Y

Woodstock calls itself “a city unexpected,” and this community of about 36,000 offers amenities you might not imagine in a city of its size. More than 2,500 businesses are located here, and residents have a wide choice of housing options: many accessible from downtown on foot or via the free downtown trolley service and bike share program. The city boasts hiking and biking trails, concerts, festivals and other special events. It’s easy to see why Woodstock has been steadily racking up accolades from national media outlets and was the only Georgia city to make Money magazine’s 2020 list of Top 50 Best Places to Live in the U.S. visitwoodstockga.com

South

PEACHTREE CITY F E

This master-planned community has the feel of a vacation resort. Golf carts are a primary means of transportation here, zipping along 100 miles of multi-use paths that are also great for strolling and bicycling. The area’s lake, golf courses, playgrounds, nature areas and sports fields offer numerous recreational opportunities, and the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater hosts a number of outdoor concerts. The city is also a magnet for film and television productions and boasts a Southern Hollywood Film Tour that visits popular filming locations. peachtree-city.org

Peachtree City golf

Tre Vele

Authentic Italian Cuisine in Sandy Springs

By Christine Fonville

One of Sandy Springs’ newest eateries is quickly becoming a destination for all things Italian dining—morning, noon and night.

Tre Vele, which opened in September in the former location of {three} sheets, is a multi-faceted dining and shopping experience that promises modern and elevated Italian cuisine, according to the team behind the new venture that also runs Buckhead’s award-winning restaurant Mission + Market.

“Tre Vele is Italian for Three Sheets,” says co-owner Ryan Akly, who, along with his brother Jonathan Akly as well as chef and partner Ian Winslade, decided to transform the former {three} sheets restaurant because they had their eyes on a chef who specializes in Italian cuisine, Giancarlo Ruiz.

“Chef Ruiz grew up and trained in Florence, Italy. Following his tenure under Italian chefs, he moved here, where he gained experience in some of Atlanta’s top restaurants before being appointed executive chef at Tre Vele,” says Ryan.

Ruiz shows off his skills and experience through Tre Vele’s lunch and dinner menus. Both present a mix of classic Italian fare, such as lasagna with house-made spinach pasta, plus rich Bolognese and béchamel; and creative spins on dishes to please conscientious palates like the Vegano pizza with wild mushrooms, hazelnut, vegan cheese and decadent black truffle cashew cream.

At lunch, flavorful salads and sandwiches, such as the Caprese with mozzarella di bufala, tomatoes, basil, olive oil and aged balsamic on ciabatta, offer lighter yet satisfying options. During dinner, the menu features an assortment of cooked-to-order pizzas with fresh ingredients, plus dishes highlighting the restaurant’s selection of homemade pasta. Ryan recommends starting off with the Carciofo alla Griglia, a flavorful combination of grilled baby artichokes with a bright salsa verde.

in the restaurant’s warm interior, which Ryan described as featuring “vibrant greens alongside a 30-foot Carrara marble bar, exposed brick wall and natural wood accents in a fresh, modern atmosphere.” The restaurant also features an open-air, wraparound rooftop terrace that includes a bar, cozy seating and fire pits.

Tre Vele is already busy expanding its menu and availability with a market and café featuring a full coffee bar and daily selection of pas-

tries, like flaky croissants and the popular apple crostada, along with homemade pastas, salads and sauces, plus wine that can be purchased and taken to go for a delightful at-home meal.

THE DETAILS

Tre Vele’s food and drinks can be enjoyed

Attire: Casual

Atmosphere: Family-friendly

For a dinner entrée that exudes warm, rustic charm, go for the pappardelle pasta with lamb ragu and tangy Grana Padano cheese. One of Tre Vele’s satisfying desserts, such as the chocolate torte with whipped mascarpone and a salted caramel crust, pairs beautifully with a classic Old Fashioned or relaxing glass of Italian wine from the bar.

Recommendations: Fresh, homemade pasta; bruschetta; Vegano pizza; pastries.

Reservations: Encouraged for dinner but not required. Walk-ins welcome.

Parking: Valet parking service available

Hours: Restaurant: Mon.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Café and market: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Location: 6017 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Contact: 404-303-8423, treveleatl.com

So far, Ryan says he, along with his business partners and staff, are “delighted and grateful” with the community’s welcome of Tre Vele.

“The response has been fantastic,” Ryan says. “Sandy Springs and surrounding neighbors have shown their support.” N

Above: Tre Vele’s interior includes a 30-foot Carrara marble bar, an exposed brick wall and natural wood accents. Left: Grilled branzino fillet is served with layered potatoes, tomatoes and squash.

easy weekend getaways

By Kevin Forest Moreau

4 GREAT DESTINATIONS LESS THAN A DAY’S DRIVE

Atlanta is filled with many exciting spots to visit and things to do, but sometimes you just want to explore someplace new. With summer vacation here, there’s no better time to take off on a well-deserved respite. Whether you’re looking to spend a night, a week or just an afternoon, your new home is convenient to several nearby locations worth a trip. Here are four fun-filled destinations, all less than a day’s drive.

ASHEVILLE, N.C.

Approximately three and a half hours from Atlanta sits the beautiful and vibrant city of Asheville, renowned for its lively mix of architectural styles, an eclectic arts scene, a rich history and its nearly endless array of outdoor activities. Located in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is one of the top outdoor

cities in the Southeast, with recreation options including white water rafting, hiking trails, zip line canopy tours, mountain biking, horseback riding and much more.

The city’s downtown district is filled with lovingly preserved buildings sporting art deco, beaux arts and neoclassical designs. Visitors and locals stroll among artists, street musi-

cians, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants and museums. The sprawling Biltmore Estate is one of Asheville’s must-see attractions; built in the late 1800s by art collector George Vanderbilt, it features 252 rooms and occupies more than 175,000 square feet.

Other notable attractions include the Basilica of St. Lawrence, a Catholic church dat-

PHOTO: ExploreAsheville.com

White water rafting in Asheville

PHOTOS: (Top Two) ExploreAsheville.com; (Middle Right and Bottom Right) See Rock City Inc.

Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountain in Asheville

OUTSIDE ATLANTA

ing back to the early 1900s; the Moog Factory, where world-famous Moog synthesizers and electronic instruments are created; and the Thomas Wolfe Memorial Historic Site, where the author spent part of his formative childhood.

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, GA.

Just two hours northwest of Atlanta along the Georgia-Tennessee border, Lookout Mountain boasts a number of eye-opening attractions. High atop the mountain, Rock City Gardens draw more than half a million visitors a year, who come to view stunning rock formations thought to be 200 million years old. The 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail is filled with deep crevices and lush gardens with more than 400 species of wildflowers and vegetation winding through the 14-acre property. Other attractions include a 1,000-ton balanced rock; the Swing-A-Long Bridge, which spans nearly 200 feet; and Lover’s Leap, which offers breathtaking views of seven states from above a 90-foot waterfall.

Ruby Falls, located in a limestone cave deep in the heart of the mountain, is known as America’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. This 145-foot waterfall flows from the roof of the cavern. And the Incline Railway, heralded as the steepest railway in the world, whisks visitors up to

the top of Lookout Mountain, where they can enjoy magnificent views of the Chattanooga Valley and explore the battlefields of Point Park, where the Battle of Lookout Mountain took place during the Civil War.

NASHVILLE, TENN.

Just three and a half hours from Atlanta, Nashville sits on the Cumberland River and sports a

rich downtown area known for its restaurants, entertainment venues, shops, galleries and museums.

Nashville, the capital city of Tennessee, is also widely known as the epicenter of the country music industry, earning the nickname “Music City.” Fans making a pilgrimage there will want to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum,

Lookout Mountain's Rock City Gardens

Top: one of Asheville’s many breweries; above: one of the countless signs promoting Lookout Mountain’s Rock City.

a shrine to the genre’s rich past filled with historic artifacts and informative exhibits. The Grand Ole Opry House, another must-see musical landmark, is the home of the weekly Grand Ole Opry live show, dedicated to country, bluegrass, gospel and other down-home genres. The historic Ryman Auditorium, the Opry’s famous former venue, still hosts a variety of concerts and performances.

Nashville is also home to Vanderbilt University, a private research college. The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the classic Greek temple, houses an art museum. The Hermitage, the former plantation home of Andrew Jackson, is now a museum devoted

dto the former president. And the Tennessee State Museum traces the state’s past from prehistoric times to the present.

TOWNS COUNTY, GA.

Nestled against the North Carolina border, this Georgia county is a top destination in the summer. That’s the season when the lush woodlands of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chattahoochee National Forest burst into song with an abundance of concerts, including Travis Tritt performing at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawasee. It’s also close enough for a weekend getaway, allowing visitors to unwind with a hike beside natural waterfalls, a kayak ride along the

Hiwassee River or a leisurely boat ride on Lake Chatuge. Climb to the top of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest point of elevation at 4,784 feet above sea level, where a visitor information center and viewing tower await.

Brasstown Valley Resort is one of the area’s premier destinations, boasting an array of activities, from horseback riding, fishing, golf and spa indulgences, or the chance to curl up near the roaring fire in the rustic lobby. The area’s two largest towns, Young Harris and the county seat Hiawassee, are home to antique shops, art galleries and restaurants. Dine on gourmet fare at the Chophouse of Hiawassee or enjoy casual waterfront dining at the Sand Bar & Grille.

Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe

Towns County's Hightower Creek Vineyards

TO HERE THERE

Vehicle Emission Inspection

Mass Transit

One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.50 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit itsmarta.com.

Vehicles that are 24 model years old and later (except the three years prior to the current year) must be checked yearly for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit cleanairforce.com.

Driving Tips

The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting. Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 877694-2511, by dialing 511 or by visiting dot.ga.gov.

MARTA

MARTA Rail Service

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

ELECTRICITY

Amicalola EMC 706-253-5200

Cobb EMC 770-429-2100

Georgia Power 888-891-0938

Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363

GAS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

Cherokee County QUICK INFO

County cherokeega.com

Neighborhoods cantonga.gov

woodstockga.gov

cityofballground.com

hollyspringsga.us

cityofwaleska.com

Median household income: $75,477

Median age of residents: 38

Population: 235,896

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce

Cherokee County 770-345-0400, cherokeechamber.com

Property Taxes

Per $1,000 of assessed value is:

Unincorporated Cherokee County, $21.46; Incorporated Cherokee County, $21.46.

Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

AT&T att.com

Cobb EMC cobbemc.com

Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com

Direct TV directv.com

Dish Network dish.com

ETC Communications etcnow.com

Spectrum spectrum.com

TDS Telecom tdstelecom.com

Windstream windstream.com

Located

Cherokee

The county seat,

called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.

to live, work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.

Neighborhoods Canton

Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is a prime location for development.

Woodstock

Located 12 miles south of Canton, Woodstock is one of Georgia's top 10 fastest-growing cities and a community recently named one of the Top 50 Cities Places to Live in the U.S. by Money magazine.

Residents also enjoy easy access to 575 and 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.

WATER

Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813

City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123

City of Canton 770-704-1500

City of Waleska 770-479-2912

City of Woodstock 770-592-6006

HOSPITALS

Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-224-1000

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital

770-793-5000

Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to Zillow.com, the median value of homes is $283,573. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farm, BridgeMill and Towne Lake Hills.

Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places

Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.

Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is reinvesting in its downtown. As part of its Streetscapes program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge

While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown area, where antique and other specialty shops are located.

Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com

northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the

Indians.

then

Old Sixes Mill

Cobb County

Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Willis Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the famous Battle of Kennesaw Mountain.

QUICK INFO

County cobbcountyga.gov

Neighborhoods austellga.org mariettaga.gov smyrnaga.gov kennesaw-ga.gov cityofpowdersprings.org smyrnacity.com

Median household income: $75,654

Median age of residents: 36.6

Today, Cobb County, located northwest of Fulton County, is one of the state's most thriving counties. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. Nearly $900 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious Platinum Triangle in the popular Galleria area.

Population: 755,754

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce

Cobb County 770-980-2000, cobbchamber.org

Property Taxes

The property tax is $33.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000

Neighborhoods Kennesaw

One of Family Circle magazine’s Ten Best Towns for Families, Kennesaw takes pride in its smalltown atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and greenspace, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s historic downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Smyrna

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury apartments and condos near

Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest cor ner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2018 was $237,800.

Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The Market Village district, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Truist Park

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

ELECTRICITY City of College Park 404-669-3759 City of East Point 404-270-7010

City of Fairburn

City of Palmetto

770-964-2244

770-463-3322

Georgia Power 888-891-0938

GAS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

AT&T att.com

Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com

Direct TV directv.com

Dish Network dish.com

WATER

Fulton County 404-612-6830

HOSPITALS

Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000

Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111

Center for the

Visually Impaired 404-875-9011

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-2273

Emory University Hospital Midtown 404-686-4411

Grady Memorial Hospital 404-616-1000

WellStar North Fulton Regional Hospital

Northside Hospital

770-751-2500

404-851-8000

Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000

Shepherd Center 404-352-2020

Emory St. Joseph's Hospital 678-843-7001

Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here.

More than one million people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $290,400.

Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options. Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular greenspace, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts.

Neighborhoods Buckhead

Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s Man-

sion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center. Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot. With luxury hotels, shops, bars and more than 250 restau rants, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young pr als.The neighborhood also offers numerous antique stores, art galleries and mall shopping at both Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.

Fulton County QUICK INFO

County co.fulton.ga.us

Neighborhoods alpharetta.ga.us buckhead.net

cityofmiltonga.us virginiahighland.com collegeparkga.com

eastpointcity.org

hapeville.org

johnscreekga.gov roswellgov.com

sandyspringsga.gov

Median household income: $65,037

Median age of residents: 35.5

Population: 1,050,114

Sales tax: 7.75%, Atlanta City: 8.9%

Chamber of Commerce

Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, gnfcc.com

Metro Atlanta

404-880-9000, metroatlantachamber.com

South Fulton 770-964-1984, southfultonchamber.com

Property Taxes

is home to about 64,000 residents, drawn to its affordable housing, parks, shopping at North Point Mall and concerts at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. The city's historic downtown boasts an appealing town square. Called Alpharetta City Center, it features locally owned shops and restaurants, and hosts events year round.

Johns Creek

Incorporated in 2006, this thriving community of 84,000 was ranked fourth among 50 Best U.S. Cities to Live In by USA Today. It boasts a diverse economic base, coupled with a peaceful environment: the city contains over 400 acres of parkland and nature reserves and contains five access points to the Chattahoochee River.

Milton

The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: $40.92 for the City of Atlanta; $29.18 for incorporated Fulton County; $40.76 for unincorporated Fulton County; $33.54 for Johns Creek; $33.91 for Sandy Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100

Alpharetta

One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta

Also incorporated in 2006, Milton combines a pastoral setting with forward-thinking city planning that offers what's been called "The best quality of life in Georgia." N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com

Piedmont Park

Gwinnett County

EDUCATION

railroad aficionado.

Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.

Suwanee

Originally part of Georgia’s Native American territory, Gwinnett County was created by the State Legislature in 1818 and named after Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia's three signers of the Declaration of Independence and a former governor.

While the county was once largely rural with small towns, country stores, farms and forests, today it is home to about 600 international companies and 450 high-tech firms. With an average of 21 new professional and industrial companies relocating to the county each year, attracting almost 21,000 new jobs, Gwinnett County remains in the top 10 ranking for growth nationwide. The county supports many cultural events, r estaurants and shopping opportunities, including the Mall of Georgia in Buford.

Gwinnett County remains affordable for renters and firsttime home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of Doraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median value of homes in 2018, according to the Census Bureau, was $200,400.

Neighborhoods

Duluth

Amidst the pristine setting

QUICK INFO

County gwinnettcounty.com

Neighborhoods cityofbuford.com duluthga.net cityoflilburn.com snellville.org suwanee.com

Median household income: $68,914

Median age of residents: 35.3

Population: 920,260

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce Gwinnett County, 770-232-3000, gwinnettchamber.org

Property Taxes

Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th century. Following the official founding of the city in 1837, Suwanee became a railroad stop along the Southern Railroad route. It remained a small country town well into the ’70s when construction of I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access to the region.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $28.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.

of Gwinnett County, Duluth has some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in metro Atlanta and is home to some of the best golf courses and private tennis clubs. There are numerous parks for recreation and participatory sports, including Bunten Road Park and Shorty Howell Park. North Point Mall, a major shopping center, is located near Duluth. The Southeastern Railway Museum, which preserves and operates old railroad equipment, is a must-see for any

Since then, Suwanee has experienced tremendous growth, from 2,412 residents in 1990 to more than 20,000 today. To help manage growth, the city has developed a comprehensive development plan that promotes pedestrianoriented development and mixed-use zoning. The city was designated a Tree City USA for 29 years for its commitment to preserving 27 percent of its land as greenspace.

Such foresight has allowed Suwanee to retain its old-fashioned charm while providing contemporary convenience. Only 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is close to big-city attractions, business districts and shopping. Many antique shops and historic structures, including several Victorian and regional farm-style homes, are located near downtown Suwanee. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

City Hall and the Town Green in downtown Duluth

Theater & Concerts

Water for Elephants, Alliance Theatre

The Alliance Theatre proudly presents the world premiere of this musical based on the best-selling novel. June 7-July 9, alliancetheatre.org.

Indigo Girls, Cadence Bank Amphitheatre

The Georgia-based, award-winning folk-rock duo performs. June 9, livenation.com.

Duran Duran, State Farm Arena

The popular British pop-rock band performs, with Bastille and Nile Rodgers and CHIC opening. June 15, statefarmarena.com.

James Taylor, State Farm Arena

The award-winning singer and songwriter known for such hits as “Fire and Rain,” “How Sweet It Is” and “You’ve Got a Friend” performs. June 16, statefarmarena.com.

Styx, Fox Theatre

Radio station 97.1 The River presents an evening with the multi-platinum recording artists known for such hits as “Lady,” “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade.” Edwin McCain opens. June 16, foxtheatre.org.

Tori Amos, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

The acclaimed singer-songwriter performs in support of her 2021 album “Ocean to Ocean.” June 23, cobbenergycentre.com.

The Music of Def Leppard With the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater

Conductor Brent Havens leads a program of the British rock band’s distinctive songs, featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, a full rock band and singer Justin Sargent. June 24, aso.org.

Peter Frampton, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

The chart-topping British singer and guitarist performs. June 27, livenation.com.

The Cure, State Farm Arena

The award-winning English rock band known for such songs as “Friday I’m in Love” and “Just Like Heaven” performs. June 27-28, statefarmarena.com.

Back to School Bubblepalooza, Duluth Town Green

The Incredible Book Eating Boy, Stillwell Theater at Kennesaw State University

A young boy who hates reading discovers a new way to ingest them in this Alliance Theatre production based on the book by Oliver Jeffers. July 1-23, alliancetheatre.org.

Alicia Keys, State Farm Arena

The Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter performs on her Keys to the Summer Tour. July 3, statefarmarena.com.

The F.O.R.C.E. Live, State Farm Arena

L.L. Cool J headlines a show that also features The Roots, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Z-Trip, Salt-NPepa, De La Soul and Rakim. July 4, statefarmarena.com.

Foreigner, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Expect to hear such hits as “I Want to Know What Love Is” and “Feels Like the First Time” on the classic rock band’s Historic Farewell Tour. July 6, livenation.com.

Blink-182, State Farm Arena

The reunited pop-punk trio known for such hits as “What’s My Age Again?” and “All the Small Things” performs. July 13, statefarmarena.com.

Boy George & Culture Club, Cadence Bank Amphitheatre

The English pop act known for such hits as “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” and “Karma Chameleon” performs. July 18, livenation.com.

John Fogerty, Cadence Bank Amphitheatre

The singer, songwriter and guitarist known for his solo career as well as his work with Creedence Clearwater Revival performs. July 26, livenation.com.

Beyoncé, Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The pop superstar performs in support of her 2022 album “Renaissance.” Aug. 11, 12 & 14, mercedesbenzstadium.com.

English, Alliance Theatre

Four Iranian adults struggle to learn English in this Obie Award-winning play that deals with themes of communication and identity. Aug.16Sept. 17, alliancetheatre.org.

Lionel Richie, State Farm Arena

Richie, known for his solo work, his time leading The Commodores and “American Idol,” performs on his Sing a Song All Night Long

PHOTO:Atlanta Botanical Garden

Trolls: Save the Humans, Atlanta Botanical Garden

Tour, which also features Earth, Wind & Fire. Aug. 22, statefarmarena.com.

Chris Stapleton, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

The country music singer and songwriter performs two shows on his All-American Road Show Tour. Aug. 25-26, livenation.com.

Exhibits & Events

Survival of the Slowest, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

This exhibit explores why it’s sometimes better to be slower in order to survive longer, providing a look at the adaptations and strategies of animals like the sloth, green iguana and bearded dragon. June 10-Sept. 4, fernbankmuseum.org.

Duluth Farmers and Artisan Market, Duluth Town Green

Shop locally grown produce, baked goods and other homemade items like candles, soaps and pottery at this monthly event showcasing local farmers and vendors on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. June 11 & 25, July 9 & 23, and Aug. 13 & 27, duluthga.net.

Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Samurai: Armor From the Collection of Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, High Museum of Art

This exhibition features more than 150 helmets, swords and other objects spanning almost nine centuries, highlighting their extraordinary design and craftsmanship. June 23-Sept. 17, high.org.

The Art of the Brick Immersive Experience, Exhibition Hub Art Center

This spectacular world premiere features 70 works of art by Nathan Sawaya, created from more than 1 million Lego bricks. The exhibit features 3D video mapping, stirring music, and 360-degree installations. Through June 30, theartofthebrickexpo.com/atlanta.

Viva Las Duluth, Duluth Town Green

Enjoy Vegas-style performers including magicians, cirque-style dancers and impersonators, as well as free slot machines, casino photo ops and more. July 8, duluthga.net.

British Invasion, Savoy Automobile Museum

Get an up-close look at some of the finest British sports cars ever brought to the American automobile market. Through July 9, savoymuseum.org.

Back to School Bubblepalooza, Duluth Town Green

Bring the kids to this free event to enjoy one of the last days of the summer break with bubbles, yard games and a live DJ. July 26, duluthga.net.

75 Years of Porsche, Savoy Automobile Museum

This exhibition showcases some of the iconic models of this legendary luxury brand, which launched in 1948. Through July 30, savoymuseum.org.

Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

This brand-new exhibit featuring the star of the stop-motion animated series “Shaun the Sheep” helps young visitors ages 3 to 9 hone their problem-solving skills, and also includes a “tot spot” for children under 3 years of age. Through Sept. 4, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Trolls: Save the Humans, Atlanta Botanical Garden

This outdoor art exhibit by Thomas Dambo

calls attention to the importance of sustainability and protecting the environment with amazing troll sculptures created from reclaimed wood. Through Sept. 17, atlantabg.org.

Flicks on the Bricks, Duluth Town Green

Enjoy a free screening of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Pre-show entertainment includes free inflatables, vendors, themed characters and live music. Movie starts at 7 p.m. Aug. 4, duluthga.net.

Happy Joylanta, High Museum of Art

Explore an immersive environment featuring decorations from celebratory traditions around the world beneath a massive canopy on the Woodruff Arts Center’s Carroll Slater Sifly Piazza.Through Nov. 26, high.org.

Andrews’ Raiders Room, Marietta History Center

This permanent exhibit recreates the decor of an 1860s hotel room much like the one James Andrews stayed in (located in the same building that now houses the museum) before taking part in a famous Civil War event known as the Great Locomotive Chase. Ongoing, mariettahistory.org.

Fundamentally Food, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Children up to 8 years old will love this hands-on exhibit. Select produce from the farm, climb on a John Deere tractor, milk Buttercup the milking cow, shop at a grocery and enjoy a pretend meal at the museum’s play diner. Ongoing, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Giants of the Mesozoic, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

This exhibition recreates life in the badlands of Patagonia, Argentina, where the largest dinosaurs in the world were unearthed. Ongoing, fernbankmuseum.org.

Shaheen Collection of French Works, High Museum of Art

This installation from the High Museum’s permanent collection focuses on French artwork of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ongoing, high.org.

Wildwoods, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Explore a variety of native plants, as well as interactive exhibits and special trailside experiences. Ongoing, fernbankmuseum.org.

Survival of the Slowest, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

A VENUE THAT CHAMPIONS UPCOMING ARTISTS

By Everett Catts

Tucked away in the basement of the Tula Art Center in Buckhead, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA) was founded by an artist for artists.

Opening in 2001, it was created “to support artists of Georgia, to support our own local community,” says founder Annette Cone-Skelton, its president, CEO and director, who as an artist herself struggled to find venues to display and sell her works. “It’s a unique mission and it’s artists-centered with its programs and exhibitions.”

THE DETAILS

LOCATION: 75 Bennett St., Suite M1, Atlanta, GA 30309

HOURS: noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday

COST: $5 for non-members; free for members, children 6 & under and active and retired military members; artist talks are free; annual memberships start at $25

CONTACT INFO: 404-367-8700, info@mocaga.org

WEBSITE: mocaga.org

Since then the museum has been a vocal backer of the city’s contemporary artists. MOCA GA each year hosts a competition called the Working Artists Project, devoted to supporting established artists who live in metro Atlanta. The winners, called fellows, receive a $15,000 stipend, a paid studio apprentice and a solo exhibition there. To date MOCA GA has supported 45 fellows.

The museum also has a partnership with SeekATL, a local arts organization, to bring artists there. It also hosts other exhibitions and events. “We also have tremendous archives of the art of the state, from the mid-’40s forward,” Cone-Skelton says, adding MOCA GA has over 1,500 pieces of art.

She and her staff are excited about the museum’s plans to move from its rented, noncontiguous, 22,000-square-foot space into a new 26,000-squarefoot facility it will own at the Goat Farm Arts Center in west Midtown. The new museum, which is expected to open in mid-2024, will also have an 8,000-square-foot rooftop deck to be used for events.

PHOTOS: (Left) Everettt Catts; (Bottom Right) Fredrik Braur