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Loving all things Chamblee!
As we step into February, the month traditionally dedicated to love and connection, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many ways we can show appreciation for the people, places, and businesses that make Chamblee such a special community. Whether it’s the bond we share with family and friends or the vital connections we have with our local small businesses, this is the perfect time to express how much we care.
Valentine’s Day is often seen as a day for romantic love, but it’s also a reminder to show love in all its forms. In Chamblee, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by people who truly make this city shine.
From the small business owners who greet us with smiles to the neighbors who check in on each other, there’s no shortage of kindness and support here. This month, let's celebrate that spirit and make an effort to show our appreciation for the people who make Chamblee the welcoming, vibrant place we call home.
Take a moment to express gratitude to the local businesses that provide us with more than just goods and services—they create the heartbeat of our community. Chamblee has businesses that have been here for years, and brand-new ones that have just opened – or are about to! Whether you’re picking up a coffee at Choice Coffee, grabbing a gift for a loved one at Personify boutique downtown or simply enjoying a meal at Hopstix, know that you’re helping to nurture the heart of our city. These small businesses and many, many others are what make Chamblee unique, and it’s important to support them, not just on special occasions, but every day.
At its core, February is about love—love for our families, friends, neighbors, and the places that make us feel like we belong. So, as you go about your daily routines this month, I encourage you to take a moment to express how much the people in your life mean to you. Whether it's a simple thank you, a heartfelt note, or a gesture of kindness, let's spread love in every corner of Chamblee.
Wishing you all a warm, love-filled February. Let’s make this month one of appreciation, community, and connection. Oh, and Happy Valentine’s Day!
With gratitude,
KEVIN PARKER, PUBLISHER
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Kevin Parker | kevin.parker@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tana Poncsak | tana.poncsak@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Janet Howard | janet.howard@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Polina Williams | polina.williams@citylifestyle.com
Ingrid Preda | ingrid.preda@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
FOR EVENT DECOR THAT POPS!
Elevate your events with Balloonacy’s enchanting décor services, tailored to infuse festive spirit into every occasion. For private or corporate holiday parties, our expert team designs stylish decor that transforms the venue into a magical setting, creating the perfect ambiance for celebrations of all kinds!
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Urban Art Collective holds an annual Holiday Open House. 2: The lighting of the tree on the lawn in front of Chamblee City Hall. 3:
city officials attend Chamblee’s Holiday Hoopla. 4: The Social Studio holds a holiday gathering. 5: Apres-Golf Bartender Takeover takes place at Atlanta Golf and Social. 6: Guests gather for a Bourbon and Rye Tasting at the Distillery of Modern Art. 7: An artist at work at the Urban Art Collective’s Holiday Open House.
Chamblee
JANET HOWARD
JANET HOWARD
JANET HOWARD
JANET HOWARD
JANET HOWARD
KEVIN PARKER
KEVIN PARKER
Blue Ribbon Grill and Jenovelle
Blue Ribbon Grill and Jenovelle held a ribbon cutting on Dec. 17. Blue Ribbon Grill has served the Atlanta area since 1985 and recently moved to the Chamblee area. The restaurant specializes in American Traditional Comfort foods serving brunch and dinner. Blue Ribbon Grilled is accompanied by Jenovelle, a European Cafe and Market that offers European inspired gifts and food. Welcome to Chamblee! For more information, visit blueribbongrill.com and jenovelle.com
City of Chamblee
Vivian Vakili was appointed as Chamblee's Assistant City Manager. According to a social media post by the city of Chamblee, her appointment was effective on Jan. 6, Vivian's past roles have focused on land development in both the public and private sectors. She earned her bachelor's degree from Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from Emory University and holds certifications in Planning. We welcome Vivian to the city of Chamblee!
Deep Roots Wine Market & Tasting Room
Just opened in Chamblee is Deep Roots Wine Market & Tasting Room! Dana and Todd Gurela turned their passion for wine into an obsession. With two other locations in Woodstock and Roswell, Dana, the owner, has now brought a third location to the historic district in Chamblee. For more information, visit deeprootswine.co And welcome to Chamblee!
Photography by DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Vivian Vakili
Photography by Deep Roots Wine Market & Tasting Room
TO MY
Valentine
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
Instructions for Heart Prints
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Instructions for Rose Prints
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
Move Well Be Well
CAR CARE TIPS
Local expert gives tips to keep your car running smoothly in winter
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
As the temperature changes, the maintenance on your vehicles needs to change as well. We spoke with David Jacob, owner of MBT of Atlanta located in Chamblee, for some of his best general tips when it comes to maintaining your vehicle during the cold months of winter. Here is what he suggests to keep your vehicle running in tip-top shape.
Always follow manufacturer recommendations for general maintenance as a general rule. David Jacob, owner of MBT of Atlanta
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE IN WINTER VS. SUMMER
David says winter and summer exert different demands on your vehicle due to extreme temperature changes. In colder months, your vehicle is more affected by freezing temperatures, ice, and snow, which can lead to battery failures, tire issues, and fluid inconsistencies. Conversely, summer heat can cause overheating and other heat-related issues. Proper maintenance is crucial to handle these seasonal challenges.
WINTER
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE TIPS
Check Your Battery: Cold weather reduces battery efficiency leading to starting problems. Ensure the battery is fully charged and terminals are clean. A weak battery may fail unexpectedly, so consider replacing it if it's older than three years.
Inspect Tires: Winter roads can be slippery making tire traction essential. Use winter tires for better grip. Check tire pressure, as it can drop in cold weather, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Tires are one of the most important components of the vehicle for safety and optimal energy consumption and efficiency.
Top Off Antifreeze: Your engine needs antifreeze to prevent freezing. Ensure the coolant mixture is correct and levels are topped off to avoid engine damage. Make sure to use manufacturer recommended fluids.
Examine Wiper Blades and Fluid: Visibility can decrease with snow and rain. Replace worn-out blades and use a winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing.
Check the Heater and Defroster: They are essential for comfort and safety, ensuring windows stay clear of frost and fog.
Top: Check fluids
Bottom: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations
Lubricate Door Locks: Moisture and freezing temperatures can cause your locks to freeze and prevent access. Use a graphite-based lubricant to keep your locks functioning.
Don’t Warm Up Your Car for Too Long: Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to engine wear. A few minutes are sufficient.
If you plan on traveling to different states where temperatures might be different, you may want to consult a local technician for further information.
CONSULT THE EXPERTS
David says while he has great respect for car enthusiasts and those who love to work on their own vehicles, he urges caution when it comes to newer models, particularly hybrids and electric vehicles. "Cars are sophisticated and technologically advanced, making even routine tasks like an oil change challenging," he says. "Working with components like a 48V battery or handling a fully electric system with high voltage and amperage can be dangerous without the proper knowledge and experience."
If you're not completely confident in your ability to service your own vehicle, David strongly recommends consulting a professional repair shop. This isn't just beneficial for the professionals—it’s a smart move financially. "I've seen many cases where individuals have attempted simple tasks like oil changes or brake replacements, only to cause severe damage to their vehicles," he adds. "Save yourself the headache and potential costs by entrusting your car to experts."
FOLLOW MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDATIONS
David also suggests to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. "They have decades of knowledge and experience, so it’s super important to follow their recommendations," he says. "At MBT of Atlanta, we always follow manufacturer
Save yourself the headache and potential costs by entrusting your car to experts.
David Jacob, owner of MBT
of Atlanta
It's important to keep your car maintained to keep it running smoothly.
recommendations for general maintenance as a general rule."
Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist:
• Battery condition
• Tire pressure and tread
• Antifreeze levels
• Wiper blades and washer fluid
• Heater and defroster functionality
• Door locks lubrication
ADDITIONAL TIPS
Emergency Kit: Pack an emergency kit including blankets, a flashlight, food, water, and a small shovel. Bad weather conditions can leave you stranded.
Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to avoid unexpected breakdowns during harsh weather.
Winterizing your vehicle ensures, not only its longevity, but also your safety on icy roads. Proper preparation helps you navigate through the winter months smoothly.
Stay safe and drive carefully on the roads! MBT of Atlanta is a body shop and service center that specializes in repairs and maintenance for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. MBT of Atlanta is located in Chamblee at 5622 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. For more information about MBT of Atlanta, services offered and hours of operations, visit the website at mbtofatlanta.com
8a-2p
Blue Ribbon
Dr Rachel Stockwell
A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E
A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH
PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,
Burrata Salad
INGREDIENTS
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
realty report
Teneisha Jones, public arts coordinator, city of Chamblee
Yellow Bench by Jim Gallucci
Flatlander by Richard Pitts
LOVING Local PUBLIC Arts
2024 was a big year for the city’s public arts program, as they added a number of pieces and murals to the growing collection.
While public art isn’t totally new to Chamblee, now that the city has a dedicated person on staff and the Public Arts Commission, they continue to make great strides in public arts.
Teneisha Jones, public arts coordinator for the city of Chamblee, says having a public arts initiative and collection is something that brings people together as a community.
“It’s something that creates conversation,” she says. “It beautifies and creates space and creates place. All those things are important for communities.”
And it can also make a city memorable and can create landmarks.
“The things you remember are the things that are different and interesting,” Teneisha says.
Creating space and place with public art.
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
Phil Proctor
Some of Chamblee's newer pieces of art include:
Metaphysica by Phil Procter is a red steel sculpture measuring 15’x13’x12’ located in front of the MARTA Station near downtown Chamblee.
Flatlander is a yellow sculpture by Richard Pitts located at Peachtree Road and Pierce Drive.
The Rail Trail Piano painted by Phillip Clark and installed in partnership with Play Me Again Pianos.
Yellow Bench by Jim Gallucci located along Peachtree Road at the bus stop near the former Chamblee City Hall. The bench features a whisper tube making it a fun attraction for kids and adults.
In Free Fall by Hannah Jubran, a colorful sculpture located near Malone Drive.
And around 20 murals located along the Chamblee Rail Trail from the Babe Walls Mural Festival that took place in fall 2024.
Teneisha explains that the budget for public art comes from tourism fees. When someone visits Chamblee and stays at one of the hotels or motels located in the city, there’s a fee collected when the visitor pays their bill.
“It’s usually just a couple of bucks,” Teneisha says. “Those dollars add up.”
A portion of those funds are earmarked as designated funds for tourism, and public arts receives some of those funds.
“A lot of people don’t realize that we have many hotels in Chamblee,” Teneisha says.
For 2025, the city plans to hold many of the same community events such as the Annual Chalk Walk, Art Drop and more. Teneisha says new for 2025 will involve a performing arts event such as a play, where residents can picnic on the lawn and enjoy a performance. This is something that Teneisha says is being considered for late spring.
The Chamblee Public Arts Commission meets monthly every fourth Thursday at 6 p.m., at Chamblee City Hall, with the exception of November and December. Teneisha says the public is invited to attend these meetings and there’s a public comment section for those who would like to speak. Time allotted for each speaker is three minutes.
A website is dedicated to Chamblee Public Arts. For up to date information on Chamblee’s Public Arts, visit https://arcg.is/1G1bfO1 .
Sculptures recently added to Chamblee's Public Arts collection:
Metaphysica by Phil Proctor Flatlander by Richard Pitts Yellow Bench by Jim Gallucci In Free Fall by Hannah Jubran
Learn more about them and more, at https://arcg.is/1G1bfO1
How the railroad shaped Chamblee
The history behind the railroad in Chamblee and how it shaped the city we love.
As we are loving local in this February issue of Chamblee City Lifestyle, we want to take a look back at where the community has been to get a better idea of where it is and where it’s going. So, in this issue we’re looking at how the railroad shaped Chamblee’s history and set the community on the path for a successful future.
According to the New Georgia Encyclopedia, the state’s first railroad tracks were laid in the 1830s, and by 1929, a network across Georgia was created with connections to both Alabama and Tennessee. The New Georgia Encyclopedia entry goes on to say that it’s along the railroad tracks where towns and cities in the state of Georgia were established and happened like this:
A depot would be built and businesses would locate nearby to take advantage of the concentration of potential customers. Other businesses would be established to provide such services as lodging, saloons, livery stables, blacksmiths, warehouses, and milling. Eventually a town or city would develop. (Storey, S. (2006). Railroads. In New Georgia Encyclopedia . Retrieved January 2, 2005, from georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/ business-economy/railroads/ )
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY TANA PONCSAK
According to Longview With a View to the Future (1958-1962), a document by Ellen Rankin, in the section “A History of the Longview Development,” Rankin writes that Chamblee began as Roswell Junction on the spur line of the Richmond and Danville Railroad. Rankin goes on to explain that once the town became big enough for a post office, officials rejected the name Roswell Junction. …the name Chamblee came from an African American railroad worker who had entered his name in a contest. (Jim Gray, “Chamblee Enjoys its Own Identity,” Originally published in The AtlantaJournal Constitution , January 27, 1974.)
And that’s how the city is said to be created and how it became - Chamblee.
In a July 12, 2021 blog post on her site Past Tense Ga., Valerie Biggerstaff gives readers insight into what was known as the Roswell Railroad at the time, and the route of the tracks in modern day. Below is the excerpt of the route from Biggerstaff's blog post.
From Chamblee Depot, the railroad went through where Chamblee Plaza is today, and on to the location of Chamblee Methodist Church. There was a trestle bridge over Nancy Creek near the church. The railroad then crossed where I-285 is today, following the path of Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The path continued past the home of William J. and Millie Adams Donaldson, known today as Donaldson-Bannister Farm. Continuing along the path of Chamblee Dunwoody Road, the railroad crossed present day Mount Vernon Road and stayed to the left at the fork with Roberts Drive to continue the path of today’s Chamblee Dunwoody Road.
…The Railroad Section House, which today sits between Synovus Bank and Wade Automotive Repair on Chamblee Dunwoody Road, was once one of three section houses. The section houses were used for railroad workers to stay in while working on the track. (Read the full blog post and more at pasttensega.com .)
While much has changed, some things remain the same. Today the railroad tracks still run through the heart of Chamblee and trains continue to chug along the tracks. And like those first residents and visitors of the place we call Chamblee, people today can stop by the Frosty Caboose for a sweet treat or take an evening stroll through downtown and watch the trains go by.
Acknowledgements: Special thank you to the city of Chamblee for providing the historical images, long-time Chamblee resident and member of the Huntley Hills Neighborhood Association Marci Hooper-Smith, and Valerie Biggerstaff and her Blog, Past Tense Ga., for providing assistance and information for this article.
Image provided by the city of Chamblee
EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY
Open Mic Night - Guitars
Moondog Pub & Grub | 7:00 PM
Moondog Pub & Grub holds Open Mic Night for Guitars every other Wednesday starting Feb. 5 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bring your acoustic or electric guitar and play your original music or covers for the crowd. And if you don’t play, come and listen to some talented musicians and eat some great food. For more information, visit moondogpubandgrub.com.
FEBRUARY 2ND
Hot Chocolate Run
Centennial Olympic Park | 7:30 AM
Known as the "sweetest run," The Hot Chocolate Run includes a 5K and a 15K race that starts at 7:30 a.m. at Centennial Olympic Park. For all the information on this ultimate chocolate celebration, go to hotchocolate15K.com.
FEBRUARY 9TH
Flower Power: A Valentine's Day Flower Arranging Workshop
Distillery of Modern Art | 2:30 PM
It's time to make some bouquets! A flower arranging workshop will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 9 at the Distillery of Modern Art in Chamblee. For more information and tickets for this event, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/flower-power-a-valentines-day-flower-arranging-workshop-tickets-1053774310329
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events
CONTINUED
FEBRUARY 14TH
Night at the Museum
The Oddities Museum, 3870 North Peachtree Rd., Chamblee | 5:00 PM
The Oddities Museum will hold a “Night at the Museum,” starting Feb. 14, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information and tickets, visit theodditiesmuseum.org.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Singles Celebration Gala
The Social Studiio | 8:00 PM
Looking for something fun on Valentine's Day? Join the Singles Celebration Gala from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at The Social Studio in Chamblee. Come solo or with a friend. This event is for ages 21 and older. For more information and tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ singles-celebration-gala-tickets-1099063010049. This event is a Mesa Gatherings Event.
FEBRUARY 19TH
25th Annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre | 7:30 PM
The 25th Annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival begins Feb. 19, and runs through March 6. The festival includes a number of films and venues with General Public Ticket sales starting on Feb. 5. For more information on individual films and dates, venues and tickets, visit ajff.org
