KNOWAtlanta Spring 2021- Metro Atlanta Relocation Magazine by New South Publishing

Spring 2021

A New Season

in the ATL

INSIDE

Your Dollar in the New Home Market • Money Matters in the ATL • Your Alpharetta Staycation • Amazing Active Adult Living knowatlanta.com

PR HOMES READY �Q'LY_ Open Daily

Welcome to Paran Homes, Atlanta's Hometown Builder,

COBB Chestnut Farms

offering superior value and

From the High $400s Kennesaw

state-of-the-art home designs

Magnolia Court

in some of the mostsought-after locations in Metro Atlanta. From master-planned to active adult living, we have you covered.

From the High $400s Marietta

Sweetwater Towns From the Mid $200s Powder Springs

Millwood Farms

From the Low $400s Kennesaw

404-382-0643 COBB Kirkview

From the High $400s Marietta

FULTON Kingsland in Atlanta From the

Mid $200s Atlanta

GWINNETT Gladstone Landing

55 or Better From the Mid $200s Snellville

Seaboard Junction

55 or Better From the High $200s Loganville

JACKSON Traditions of Braselton Golf Community From the High $200s - $700s Jefferson

PAULDING Oakleigh Pointe

From the High $200s Dallas

ENJOY YOUR DAILY DRIVE.

Traditions of Braselton offers exceptional homes in an array of architectural styles and price points. From low maintenance, ranch-style living

to spacious two- and three-story homes or

even custom home offerings -

Traditions has it all.

• 18-Hole Golf Course & Clubhouse • Private Owner's Clubhouse with Catering Kitchen • 24/7 Access to Fitness Center • Six Lighted Tennis Courts with Stadium Seating

• Pickle Ball & Sports Court

• Junior-Olympic sized pool with zero-entry splash zone • Open Green for Outdoor Events • Sidewalks throughout

From the Low $300s - 700s �

DiscoverTraditionsBraselton.com/KNOW Monday- Saturday: 11 am - 6 pm & Sunday: 1 pm - 6pm

706.684.0450

401 Delaperriere Loop, Jefferson, GA 30549

Voted one oF the toP 20 home BuiLders in atL anta

by Atlanta Business Chronicle

CHEROKEE COUNTY Horizon at Laurel Canyon from the $500s 770-254-5357 | Canton Soleil Laurel Canyon from the high $300s 678-880-3071 | Canton Soleil Belmont Park COMING SOON | Canton

COBB COUNTY Kyle Farm from the $500s - $800s 770-254-5401 | West Cobb

FORSYTH COUNTY Wescott from the $700s to $1 Million Plus Lambert High School 770-254-5358 | Suwanee

FULTON COUNTY Milton Run from the $700s to $1 Million Plus 678-578-6821 | Milton Hillandale from the $700s to $1 Million Plus 770-254-5372 | Roswell

Live On A Different Level With the third generation at the helm, Patrick Malloy Communities has a long-standing tradition of building high quality homes in neighborhoods

PAULDING COUNTY The Reserve at Governor’s Towne Club from the $500s 678-578-6771 | Acworth

Winner of 38 Greater Atlanta Homebuilder Professionalism Awards including Community of the Year!

that enhance people’s lives and cultivate a sense of community. Welcome to life on a whole new level.

PMCOMMUNITIES.COM We Choose our Community LoCations the same Way you Choose your home . . . With the Best sChooLs in mind

We’ve Got You Covered in Atlanta’s Most Coveted Neighborhoods. Emerson on Krog Townhomes | Portland Row Townhomes Oxley Egdewood Townhomes, Flats & Cottages New Talley Station Stacked Flats and Townhomes | Park 108 Condos Eloise at Grant Park Townhomes and Stacked Flats | Beckham Place Townhomes Innovative Architecture | Walkable Intown Neighborhoods | BeltLine Adjacent | Move-in Ready Spacious Floor Plans | Designer Finishes | Homes Priced From the Mid-$300s to $1M+

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY LiveThriveResidential.com/KNOWAtl | 855-229-5676

Homes available nationwide. Brokers welcome. Prices subject to change without notice. Images are for representational purposes only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. 469496 02/21

Make your move to America’s hub...

Atlanta!

modern townhomes

ranch-style homes

From a great cost of living to true big-city culture, Atlanta never disappoints With skyrocketing job growth, world-class employers and a wide variety of experiences to enjoy, it’s no wonder people are moving to Atlanta, GA. Enjoy nearly year-round sunshine, great food and culture, a toprated airport and tree-lined natural beauty galore! In the city with a million opportunities for success and fun, Lennar has your needs covered. Whether you prefer a modern townhome, a traditional singlefamily home or a cozy ranch style home — including our new American Dream Series — we have the perfect design for you, from the Mid $300s to the Mid $700s.

single-family homes

Don’t forget our Everything’s Included® package, from upgraded styles, finishes, fixtures, and stainless steel appliances to the Connected Home by Lennar® providing more peace of mind for our homeownerswith the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Alarm Security Kit with the Neighbors by Ring app.

Scan to view our NEW communities!

To learn more, call 404-931-7462 or visit us online at Lennar.com/Atlanta.

The prices of our homes, included features and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions and square footage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Photographs are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. Existing and proposed amenities for the community are subject to changes, substitutions and/or deletions without notice. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2021 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 02/21 LNATL1120

Contents KNOWAtlanta Spring 2021 VOLUME 35, NUMBER 2

18 Features 18 On The Money

The top financial reasons why people and businesses move to metro Atlanta

24 A Spectacular Staycation

Relax and recharge around the corner in Alpharetta

Atlanta Basics

Homes

Healthcare

11 Welcome Home to Atlanta 12 How Atlanta Stacks Up 14 Your Gateway to the World 16 Where Business is Big 17 More Than a Century of Big Business

26 Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities 27 Moving to Atlanta Checklist 28 Guide to New Homes 36 55+ Living Choices 40 Leasing 42 Finance & Mortgage

57 The Right Touch: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Sensory Machines

Education 44 Meet Me in the Middle 53 Private School Map 54 Life University: A Global Approach 6 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Metro Atlanta Information 60 Metro Atlanta Counties and Cities Complete county and city listings, contact information and much more

2 BEDROOMS FROM THE $500,000’S

3 BEDROOMS FROM $700,000 TO OVER $1.4 MIL

FASTEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM IN MIDTOWN*

EXPERIENCE LIFE FROM A NEW VIEW WWW.OWNATLANTIC.COM 270 17TH STREET NW / ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30363 / 404.961.7111

SALES GALLERY Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-5pm

©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act. *Source: Midtown (23 DoM) vs. Atlantic (9 DoM) in the previous 6 months from 12/30/20. FMLS MarketStats, 2020, Midtown condos and Atlantic condos at all price points.

FROM THE EDITOR

On My List

Publisher

SHERRY GASAWAY

I love making lists. Lists of things to do. Of gifts to buy. Of books to read. It’s a comforting exercise that allows me to feed my inner control freak. But it’s also a handy task that helps me make important decisions. In fact, a well-thought-out pro-con list can do wonders when you have a major question in front of you and you have to come up with an answer. A question you might be asking yourself today is “Should I move to Atlanta?” Well, let’s make a list and look at all of the pros associated with this booming metro area. First, Atlanta isn’t just a beautiful Southern city that’s rich in history—it’s also a city that offers a variety of financial perks. In fact, whether a person or a business is relocating to the area, there are numerous financial-based reasons to consider calling the city home. You can find out more in our main feature, starting on page 18. You can also find out how far your home buying dollar will stretch when you read our Guide to New Homes on page 28, which looks at three popular new home price points and shows you what you can get for your money. Of course, while money, as they say, makes the world go round, there are countless other pros when it comes to making a move to our fair city. For instance, the area’s exceptional education system undoubtedly is one of the biggest positives on the list. It includes a host of outstanding private schools that serve students of all ages, and on page 44, we explore those often challenging middle school years and the approaches those local independent institutions take to help shepherd young people through them. We also take a look at the education that new home buyers receive through the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program. And you’ll learn about so much more in the pages that follow, from the reasons to consider the area’s active adult communities to the many options you have when you enjoy a staycation in the lovely metro city of Alpharetta. So, get out a pen and some paper (or open a note-taking app on your smartphone) and start making your own pro-con list. When it comes to planning a move to Atlanta, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how lopsided your list will be—in a very good way.

If you would like additional information from our relocation service providers, visit us online at knowatlanta.com.

knowatlanta

On the cover: Courtesy of Atlanta Botanical Garden

8 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

President

LARRY LEBOVITZ

lebovitz@knowatlanta.com Vice President JOHN HANNA

hanna@knowatlanta.com Editor

AMY MEADOWS

ameadows@knowatlanta.com Associate Editor

CORY SEKINE-PETTITE

cory@knowatlanta.com Contributing Writers

KEN ABRAMCZYK, STACY MOSER

Digital Marketing Coordinator COURTNEY ROGERS

courtney@deninmarketing.com Art Director

JACK SIMONETTA

jsimonetta@knowatlanta.com Advertising Coordinator MEGAN WILLIS

production@knowatlanta.com Circulation Manager AMY FINE

afine@knowatlanta.com Controller

MARILYN WALKER

walker@knowatlanta.com NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING INC.

9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350 (770) 650-1102, (800) 536-5669 knowatlanta.com Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to sherry@knowatlanta.com, (770) 650-1102, ext. 145.

Amy Meadows, Editor

@knowatlanta

sherry@knowatlanta.com

knowatlanta

KNOW®Atlanta, Spring 2021, Volume 35, Number 2, 138th Edition. Published quarterly by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Unless special placement within the magazine is specifically purchased, publisher reserves the right to place any ad on a first-come, firstserved basis. No materials contained herein may be reproduced without the exclusive written permission of the publisher. © Copyright 2021 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

David Weekley Homeowners Lauren, Wynn, Sloane & Jason Adame with grandparents Neyda & Dick Sanger

Home is where you build memories for life. That’s why we’re here to help first-time homebuyers create the ideal environment to spend time with the people who matter most. Our EnergySaverTM homes save on energy usage and our FlexSpaceSM options allow your home to grow with your family. Let us help you turn your dream into your “forever home.” That’s The Weekley Way!

Homes from the mid $300s to the high $600s+ in the Atlanta area 404-789-3033 1. Heritage at Towne Lake

55+ Community From the mid $300s 404-481-3860

2. Glenhaven at Ridgewalk

55+ Community Opening Spring 2021

3. Grand Reserve

Last Opportunities From the high $600’s 404-481-3894

4. Ashbury

Central Living Townhomes Now Pre-Selling 404-481-3890

5. Ellison Park

Central Living Townhomes From the mid $400’s 404-481-3887

6. Marietta Township

55+ community From the high $300s 404-481-3893

9. Design Center 10. Broadview Place Central Living From the low $500s 404-481-3886

11. Hargrove

Central Living Two collections From the mid $400s 404-481-3876

7. Enclave at Belmont 12. The Retreat at Central Living Sterling on the Last Oppornuities Lake From the low $400’s 404-481-3905

8. Woodbury

Townhomes From the mid $400’s 404-481-3889

55+ Community Now Selling! From the mid $300’s 404-481-3891

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2020 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. Atlanta, GA (ATLA112632)

We Saved the Best for Last.

GATED & STAFFED COMMUNITY GREG NORMAN GOLF COURSE

For years, The River Club has been an icon of luxury in Atlanta. Now in its final phase, some of its finest homesites are coming available. Your opportunity to live in this exquisite community awaits. But not for long. Limited golf course homesites remain.

PRIVATE CLUBHOUSE & SPA ROLLING TOPOGRAPHY ALONG THE CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER

Final Homesites Now Selling HOMES FROM $1 MILLION | ESTATE HOMESITES FROM MID $200,000s

Private tours by appointment. Homes and homesites offered by River Club Realty, LLC.

Welcome Home to Atlanta YOU’RE TURNING THE PAGE. STARTING A NEW CHAPTER. Getting to know your new city. To help you along the way, KNOWAtlanta has compiled some of the most important details you need about the metro area, from how far your dollar will go to the companies that have relocated here. Before you know it, you’ll feel like Atlanta has always been home. So…welcome. We’re happy you’re here.

Downtown Atlanta

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Fox Theatre

Georgia Tech

The Home Depot

Truist Park

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 11

How Atlanta Stacks Up With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.

SEATTLE $76,782

More for Your Money

Save money on everything from movie tickets to a box of cereal with a move to Atlanta, one of America’s most affordable cities. This bustling metropolis offers world-class entertainment, shopping, sports and dining at a fraction of the cost of other cities. As your living expenses decline, relish your newfound access to the finer things— whether it be an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or a Broadway play at The Fox Theatre. REDUCE 80%

SAN FRANCISCO $96,387

ENLARGE TYPE 120%

$50,000 Salary in Atlanta Equals Atlanta

2020 Median Sold Home Price Atlanta $366,300

$50,000

Chicago

$58,719

Chicago $325,000

Seattle

$76,782

Seattle

Washington, D.C.

$78,998

Washington, D.C.

New York City

$122,688

San Francisco

$96,387

$25000

$50000

$75000

$749,972 $645,000 $680,000

San Francisco

$100000

$125000

CNN Money

$1.4 million $300000

$600000

$900000

$1200000 $1500000

Realtor.com

How Metro Atlanta Cities Stack Up Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below. GAINESVILLE

2020 Median Sold Home Prices

WOODSTOCK CUMMING

Atlanta Cherokee

Bartow

Forsyth

Hall

SUWANEE LAWRENCEVILLE

MARIETTA

Paulding

Cobb

Gwinnett

DOUGLASVILLE

DUNWOODY SANDY SPRINGS DECATUR

Atlanta

DeKalb EAST POINT

Rockdale

Decatur Douglasville

$265,000 $212,000 $429,900

Dunwoody East Point

$190,000 $285,000

Gainesville Lawrenceville

$260,000 $332,000

Marietta

$389,250

Sandy Springs

$432,250 $398,000

Suwanee

Clayton Fayette

$383,670

Peachtree City

Douglas Fulton

$450,000

Cumming ALPHARETTA

Fulton

$336,300

Alpharetta

$305,000

Woodstock

Henry PEACHTREE CITY

$0 Source: Realtor.com

12 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

$100000

$200000

$300000

$400000

$500000

Apartment Rent (2 Bedrooms)

$50,000 Salary in Atlanta Equals

Atlanta

CHICAGO $58,719

$1,187

Chicago

$1,335 $1,940

Seattle

NEW YORK CITY $122,688 WASHINGTON DC $78,998

$1,705

Washington, D.C.

$1,790

New York City

$2,592

San Francisco $0

$500

$1000

$1500

$2000

$2500

$3000

apartmentlist.com, September 2020

ATLANTA $50,000

Average Cost of Monthly Parking $130

Atlanta Chicago

$307 $237

Seattle

$318

Washington, D.C. New York City

$570

San Francisco

$350 $0

$100

$200

$300

$400

$500

$600

SpotHERO and monthlyparking.org

Median Household Income Atlanta

Atlanta 506,811

$55,279

Alpharetta Cumming

Dunwoody 49,356

$95,875 $40,882 $45,708

Gainesville 43,232

Lawrenceville

$47,169

Lawrenceville 30,834 Marietta 60,867

$54,983

Peachtree City

$75000

16.7%

Suwanee 20,907

36.3%

Woodstock 33,039

$70,997

$50000

13.3% 7.8%

Sandy Springs 109,452

$86,980

$25000

27.0%

Peachtree City 36,223 5.4%

$96,577 $74,093

Suwanee

11.8% 6.3%

East Point 34,875 4.3%

Gainesville

Woodstock

30.9%

Douglasville 33,992

$53,276

Sandy Springs

18.2%

Decatur 25,696

$93,039

Marietta

17.1%

Cumming 6,547

$43,790

Dunwoody East Point

18.7%

Alpharetta 67,213

$105,908

Decatur Douglasville

Population Growth (2010-2019)

$100000

$125000

38.8%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 13

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Your Gateway to the World

ne of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport boasts nonstop flights to over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in the world for the 22nd consecutive year, with 2019 alone seeing 107 million passengers traverse its terminals and concourses. Of course with so much happening in one location, including approximately 300,000 passengers moving through it every single day, everything at Hartsfield-Jackson must run like clockwork; fortunately, the airport also has been named the world’s most efficient airport, with 2020 marking its 17th year of that distinct designation. It may be hard to believe, but HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport is located on what used to be the racetrack for the Atlanta Speedway. Abandoned in the early 1920s, the land became part of a deal that allowed the city to develop it into an airfield.

14 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Today, the bustling airport is an economic juggernaut. In fact, Hartsfield-Jackson is the largest employer in Georgia, with more than 63,000 onsite jobs and an overall economic impact of $70 billion for the state. It is one of the world’s most well-known global transport centers, as well as home to the corporate headquarters of Delta Air Lines. It also is a bona fide gateway to the entire world, with the impressive Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, a $1.4-billion, 1.2 million-square-foot, LEED gold-certified terminal that includes eight security checkpoints and five recheck lanes for domestic connecting passengers, exclusive retailers, restaurants and more. And because of the airport’s outstanding location, nearly 80 percent of the United States’ population can be reached within a two-hour flight. It makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life.

AIRPORT LOGISTICS To access the domestic terminal by car, follow Interstates 85 or 285 and exit onto a network of roads that lead to the North and South Domestic Terminals, baggage claim and airport parking. The airport is the final stop on MARTA’s Gold and Red lines. The airport MARTA station is connected to the domestic terminal and offers a Delta curbside check-in station. Hartsfield-Jackson includes a domestic and an international building — housing seven concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E and F). Travelers can then access the concourses and gates via The Plane Train, a speedy underground train that travels a 3.5-mile track.

Each month, millions of travelers fly in and out of Hartsfield-Jackson. Check out the most recent monthly passenger stats from April 2019: DELTA AIR LINES 6.7 million passengers SOUTHWEST AIRLINES 889,510 passengers AMERICAN AIRLINES 233,016 passengers

HARTSFIELD-JACKSON AT A GLANCE • 63,000+ employees • 2,700+ average daily flights • 75+ international destinations in 50+ countries with nonstop service • 80 percent of U.S. population within 2-hour flight of Atlanta • 263 total concessions • 33,350 parking spaces • 275,000 daily passengers • 5 runways • 2 terminals • 7 concourses • 40 international gates • 27 domestic security lanes • 167 domestic gates • 107 million passengers • 895,502 flights

2019 statistics

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 15

Where Business is Big 30 Fortune 1000 Companies Call Atlanta Home

or a business, the distinction of being named to either the Fortune 500 or the Fortune 1000 list is a significant honor that reflects a truly impressive standard of performance and an unparalleled high mark of achievement. The companies on those lists not only serve their customers effectively with outstanding products and resources, but they also provide their employees with opportunities that are second to none. And they are welcome assets for the cities across the country that they choose to call home. Atlanta, which has a reputation for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation, is proud to be a popular destination for many renowned companies that appear on the annual Fortune list. In 2020, the City of Atlanta ranked third in the country for the number of Fortune 500 firms and fourth for companies on the Fortune 1000 list. In fact, today, Atlanta is home to 16 Fortune 500 companies and 14 Fortune 1000 businesses. The attraction to the city makes sense, as Atlanta offers access to a booming economy, a low corporate tax structure, a highly educated and skilled workforce, one of the world’s largest travel hubs, a right-to-work status, a growing innovation ecosystem and much more. And every day, numerous companies are either launching in or relocating to the metro area. In addition to the well-known names on the Fortune 500/1000 list, such as The Home Depot, The Coca-Cola Company and UPS, Atlanta also continues to draw many other top businesses in the nation, including State Farm, NCR Corporation, IHG, Porsche Cars North America and Mercedes-Benz, all of which have established headquarters here. That continued growth a testament to the city and its ongoing efforts to create a business climate that is ideal for companies of all sizes. For so many, it’s all about Atlanta, where business is big.

Atlanta Fortune 500 Companies COMPANY RANK

The Home Depot 26 United Parcel Service (UPS) 43 Delta Air Lines, Inc. 68 The Coca-Cola Company 88 The Southern Company 153 Genuine Parts Company 171 WestRock 177 PulteGroup, Inc. 309 Newell Brands Inc. 316 AGCO 350 Veritiv 412 Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. 428 NCR Corporation 439 Intercontinental Exchange 459 Graphic Packaging Holding Co. 477 HD Supply Holdings, Inc. 478

Georgia Fortune 500 Companies COMPANY RANK

AFLAC Incorporated Mohawk Industries Inc.

146 321

Atlanta Fortune 1000 Companies COMPANY RANK

Global Payments Inc. Aaron’s, Inc. Acuity Brands, Inc. Carters, Inc. Equifax Inc. GMS Inc. FleetCor Technologies, Inc. BlueLinx Holdings Inc. SiteOne Landscape Supply Gray Television Inc. Beazer Homes USA, Inc. Primerica, Inc. Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. Rollins, Inc.

553 649 671 689 692 758 849 852 904 962 965 980 983 993

Georgia Fortune 1000 Companies COMPANY RANK

Total System Services Flowers Foods Source: Metro Atlanta Chamber 2020

16 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

626 631

More Than a Century of Big Business

or years, a buzz has been building around the business community in Atlanta. Its growth has been unprecedented, as new industries, market sectors and companies of all sizes have either launched in or relocated to the city and its surrounding areas. Yet, Atlanta has actually been a hub for big, thriving businesses for decades. In fact, for more than a century, the metro area has been home to some of the most successful companies in the world. And there are four in particular that stand out not only as big business juggernauts, but also as brand trailblazers.

The Coca-Cola Company

Founded in Atlanta by pharmacist Dr. John Stith Pemberton in May of 1886, The Coca-Cola Company put the city on the map in terms of business opportunities. Jacob’s Pharmacy in Downtown Atlanta sold nine Coca-Cola drinks per day in the company’s earliest days; today the company is worth more than $83 billion and sells more than 1.8 billion soft drink bottles per day. The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 86,000 people worldwide and continues to grow at an impressive rate. Its products are as beloved as they are widely known, and the company strives to innovate in an array of areas. It is one of Atlanta’s iconic brands, and it remains a symbol of Atlanta’s business community roots.

Delta Air Lines

Started as a crop dusting business in Macon, Georgia, in 1925, the now famous major airline began offering passenger service in 1929. It wasn’t until 1941, years after finding a way to offer affordable passenger service thanks to a new air mail contract, that Delta moved its headquarters to Atlanta from Monroe, Louisiana. It grew as a regional airline and, over time, expanded to become one of the world’s most prominent and well-known carriers. It is a $47 billion company that employs more than 91,224 employees, and its global headquarters can be found at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Today, Delta Air Lines serves as many as 200 million passengers per year.

The Home Depot

The first two Home Depot stores opened in Atlanta in 1978. Seeing great potential in the home repair DIY market, founders Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank created a shopping experience unlike any other, complete with highly skilled employees that could offer advice, guidance and instructions for completing a wide array of home-based projects. Today, The Home Depot, with an annual revenue of more than $110 billion, is the leading home improvement retailer in the country. The Atlanta-based organization employs 413,000 salaried and hourly employees and boasts nearly 3,000 stores worldwide.

UPS

In 1991, the United Parcel Service (UPS) made a pivotal decision to move its corporate headquarters to Atlanta. The company, which originally was founded in 1907 as the American Messenger Company, recognized the huge benefit of being located in one of the most dynamic cities in the South: access to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The move initially brought more than 1,000 employees to Atlanta, and in only its first year in the city, UPS generated $325 million for the local economy. Now, with more than $71 billion in annual revenue and approximately 480,000 employees worldwide, UPS has become one of the most successful and celebrated members of Atlanta’s ever-growing business community.

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 17

On The Money

18 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

The top financial reasons why people and businesses move to metro Atlanta

By Amy Meadows

ecently, experts from research firm Construction Coverage decided to look at geographic mobility in the United States and identify the most transient American cities. When looking at Atlanta and its data from 2019 (before the pandemic), the researchers discovered that in a one-year span, nearly 86,000 people moved to or within the metro area, representing an astounding 17.1 percent of Atlanta’s population. More than 19,000 of those individuals relocated from other states, while over 3,500 moved from other countries. In fact, according to Penske, Atlanta is second most popular moving destination in the nation. Of course, it’s not just people who are moving to Atlanta— businesses also are choosing to call the metro area home. From Fortune 500 firms to burgeoning startups, companies are making their way to the ATL each and every day. In June 2020, Startup Genome recognized Atlanta as one of the top 25 global startup ecosystems. And for decades, Atlanta has been known as a big business juggernaut, with 16 Fortune 500 and 11 Fortune 1000 companies having established headquarters either within the city limits or in surrounding locales. What’s more, Georgia’s business climate has been ranked number one in the country for the sixth consecutive year by Site Selection Magazine, as reported by the Metro Atlanta Chamber. While a variety of factors go into the decisions that drive both people and businesses to make their way to Atlanta, some of the most important and pressing ones deal with a very particular issue: finances. If you are going to live or do business in a city, then it has to make financial sense. Here, we look at just a few of the financial reasons that make the metro area so attractive to so many. SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 19

“Atlanta generally fares well compared to a number of major metro areas when you look at the cost of living indexes. A good portion of that is housing. That affordability is very good for firsttime home buyers, who often feel priced out of the market.” — Kathy Connelly, Senior VP of Corporate Services for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices THE PEOPLE When people contemplate whether or not they should choose a certain city as their new home, they always consider cost of living. This all-encompassing term refers to a number of elements, from the affordability of housing and food to the health of the job market and access to cultural opportunities. Fortunately, Georgia’s ranking is pretty impressive when it comes to cost of living; the World Population Review notes that it currently is the ninth state in the U.S. with the lowest cost of living, coming in with a cost index of 89.2. In fact, U.S. News & World Report recognizes Georgia as the sixth most affordable state in the entire nation. And metro Atlanta is one of the state’s biggest draws, thanks in large part to the fact that it offers some pretty notable financial benefits that make the area a great option for individuals of all ages.

Did You Know?

Homes No matter where you relocate, you have to have a roof over your head. Not only does metro Atlanta have a great variety of home options, from single-family homes, townhomes and condos to a bustling rental market, but it also boasts a level of affordability that makes it more attractive than many other large cities to which it is often compared. Kiplinger notes that the median home price in Atlanta is around $250,000, giving the city an affordability index of four; that places it ahead of large metro areas like Austin, Texas; Boston, Massachusetts; Miami, Florida; New York City, New York; San Francisco, California; and Seattle, Washington, among many others. And this affordability in the housing market benefits a range of buyers. “Atlanta generally fares well compared to a number of major metro areas when

Travel costs can actually put a big dent in your regular income. Fortunately, Atlanta no longer has any toll roads, making it easy and affordable to take advantage of the metro area’s extensive highway system, which will help you traverse the city and its surrounding counties from north to south and east to west.

20 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

you look at the cost of living indexes. A good portion of that is housing,” says Kathy Connelly, Senior VP of Corporate Services for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “That affordability is very good for first-time home buyers, who often feel priced out of the market.” That’s often because the purchase of a home isn’t exclusive to the amount spent on the residence alone. As Connelly notes, there are numerous additional costs associated with homeownership, from insurance and home association fees to property taxes. And while rates and various costs will differ depending on your situation, there are some general numbers you can consider. For example, according to BankRate.com, the average homeowner in Georgia pays just over $1,500 per year for their home insurance policy. When it comes to property tax, SmartAsset.com notes that the median real estate tax payment in the state is around $1,770, which is about $800 less than the national average. (Of course, the rate does vary by county within the metro area.) In some instances, the property tax rate, which sits at around 0.87 percent, is thousands of dollars less than someone would pay in another large city. What’s more, Connelly adds, mortgage interest rates are at historic lows right now. All of this has led to Atlanta being named the #6 City for FirstTime Home Buyers (among large cities) by WalletHub. In the long-term, a home investment is a great opportunity in Atlanta. FinTech firm Roofstock notes that over the last five years, home values in the metro area have increased a total of 49 percent, with an increase of 5.6 percent in the last year alone. With that kind of return on investment, as well as the savings up front, it’s no wonder

why Connelly states that, in many instances, it is cheaper to purchase a home than to rent in the metro Atlanta area. Jobs Of course, if you’re going to purchase a home in Atlanta, or fund your lifestyle in any way, you have to have a solid income. Atlanta’s strong economy (even as the pandemic surged throughout 2020) looks to be rebounding and has allowed the thriving job market across a host of industry sectors to remain mostly intact. In 2020 alone, the metro area was named the #1 Metro Area Tech Hub by Business Facilities, as well as the #4 Best Metro Area for STEM Professionals, the #2 City for Professional Opportunities and the #3 City to Start a Career by WalletHub. Some of the key industry segments across metro Atlanta, according to the Metro Atlanta Chamber, are FinTech, Bioscience, Technology and Supply Chain and Advanced Manufacturing. And when it comes to salary, Salary Explorer reveals that, in 2021, the average salary in Atlanta is $95,600, with the highest average salary coming in at around $427,000. And as businesses continue to be attracted to and move into the area, job growth—and the number of good-paying jobs—hopefully will remain on an upward swing. In fact, Invest Atlanta notes that 1.9 million jobs are forecasted to be created in the area by 2040. Additionally, as Connelly reveals, when relocators move into Atlanta, they often are doing so for work. Yet, they aren’t only concerned with themselves—they also want to ensure that their spouses or significant others have employment options. “This is a very diversified economy. There isn’t really one industry that dominates the entire field,” she says. “And when people are brought into the area, they want to know that there’s employment availability for their partners or spouses as well. And there are employment opportunities here.” Taxes Taxes are a key element when it comes to cost of living, and Atlanta residents benefit from an array of low rates. Georgia’s sales tax rate sits at four percent. Atlanta’s combined sales tax rate (which encom-

According to the State of Georgia, the state’s corporate income tax structure is ranked sixth in the nation in terms of its favorability. For decades, Georgia’s corporate tax rate stood at six percent; however, in January of 2019, it was lowered to 5.75 percent. passes state, county and city sales tax rates) is 8.9 percent, as Fulton County’s sales tax is three percent and the City of Atlanta comes in at 1.5 percent. The combined rate obviously changes from county to county, as areas outside of the city limits have varying rates, from Cobb County’s six percent sales tax to Henry County’s three percent rate. Each county within the metro area also offers a range of homestead exemptions that are worth researching and applying for when applicable. For instance, in Fulton County alone, there are several homestead, school tax, senior citizen, low income, disabled veterans and other local exemptions. It’s important to check the local county government for options to help you save money.

THE BUSINESSES For eight consecutive years, Georgia has been named as the #1 State for Business by Site Selection Magazine. In fact, the state often touts its pro-business environment, which includes everything from access to a skilled workforce and reliable infrastructure to the availability of low business taxes and overall solid fiscal strength. According to Brenda Robbins, Business Recruitment Director for Georgia Power’s Community and Economic Development team, not only is the State of Georgia very business-friendly, but the metro Atlanta area also outperforms many other major U.S. cities in terms of attracting and catering to new and relocating businesses. “When you think about the success of Atlanta, there are a number of reasons for that success,” she notes. “Companies that move here can attract the diverse talent they need to innovate and to grow,

as well as expand their customer base from Atlanta. There’s also a culture of collaboration throughout the business community. And there are attractive real estate options across a range of urban and suburban settings.” All of these elements make doing business in metro Atlanta both cost-effective and profitable. And that’s the name of the game for many of the companies that choose to call the metro area home. Business Taxes and Tax Credits According to the State of Georgia, the state’s corporate income tax structure is ranked sixth in the nation in terms of its favorability. For decades, Georgia’s corporate tax rate stood at six percent; however, in January of 2019, it was lowered to 5.75 percent. This change has been beneficial to businesses moving into and expanding within the area, but it is only one of the many incentives the state, and thus metro Atlanta, offers to companies of all sizes. Tax credits often are a driving factor for companies considering a relocation or an expansion. In recent years, one of the tax credits that received the most attention was the Georgia Film, Television and Digital Entertainment Tax Credit, which allows a 20 percent tax credit for companies that spend $500,000 or more on production or post-production work done in Georgia. Yet, there are myriad additional credits which companies can take advantage of depending on their individual situations. For instance, Job Tax Credits (JTC) are available to companies that create new jobs in Georgia, while Quality Jobs Tax Credits (QJTC) can provide benefits to companies that create and maintain new jobs that pay at SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 21

In Their Own Words

Business owners and executives have great things to say about Atlanta’s many benefits, including the various financial ones that make this one of the most popular locales for startups and expanding companies.

“Show me another major U.S. city that has quick access to a large number of highly talented, creative people and a 30 percent tax break.” —Matt Thompson, Principal, Executive Producer, “Archer”

“Today’s the day where we bring our 127year history and we plant our flag here in Atlanta, Georgia. People ask me why, and I say, ‘Well, really it’s not just one thing. It’s all the things added up. It’s the business environment, it’s the quality of life, it’s the infrastructure.’ Atlanta is a premier city which provides the perfect foundation to write the next chapter of our success story here in the U.S.” —Steve Cannon, CEO, AMB Group, LLC

“Atlanta is a great place to do business. It’s also important for us to be in a place that has talent and a business-friendly environment.” —Elie Maalouf, CEO of the Americas region at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)

Information courtesy of the Metro Atlanta Chamber and ATL Brand Box.

least 110 percent of the county’s average wage. There also is a tax credit dedicated to organizations that perform research and development (R&D) activities in the state, as well as an Opportunity Zone Tax Credit, which gives qualified businesses a

$3,500-per-employee credit against state corporate income taxes for five years if they locate in a less-developed census tract. And recently, a new incentive was developed that rewards companies that create jobs designed to expand the

manufacturing of personal protection equipment and hand sanitizer to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. What’s more, additional tax exemptions, grants and loans are available for a wide range of qualifying businesses.

O N E TOW N . F O U R CO U N T I ES . U N L I M I T E D O P P O RT U N I T I ES .

Escape the big city. Leave your car in park. Welcome to wine country. 22 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

visitbraselton.com

The Talent Pool “Atlanta is very highly regarded for its talent pool,” Robbins states. “There are 300,000 students enrolled in higher education, and when you look out at a 250mile radius, there are two million college students [in institutions nearby]. Atlanta is the economic engine for the Southeast, and it naturally draws talent from across the region.” This large talent pool gives companies that reside in Atlanta a bona fide competitive edge. And because there are so many educated and skilled potential employees within the metro area, many of whom currently attend the area’s highly acclaimed 54 two- and four-year colleges and universities, the length of time it takes to find the right fit for open positions is shortened. This, Robbins notes, helps reduce recruitment and onboarding costs in the long run. Furthermore, Georgia has been recognized as the #1 State for Leading Workforce Development Programs. It

is home to the top workforce training program in the country, Georgia Quick Start, which has trained more than one million employees since its inception four decades ago. Infrastructure Building a solid and enduring customer base is the cornerstone of a flourishing business. Atlanta is an ideal location for developing that base, not only because there are so many potential customers here, but also because customers can be accessed easily from across the region and the country, increasing businesses’ opportunity to boost their profits. And it all starts with Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, which has been recognized as the #1 Busiest Airport in the World. The location of the airport, as well as its size and impressive activity, gives businesses direct access to markets across the country and the globe. In fact, upwards of 80 percent of the United States’ population can be reached within

a two-hour flight. And it’s not just passengers who move through the airport daily; according to the State of Georgia, more than 650,000 metric tons of cargo is shipped via the airport, which also boasts 1.3 million square feet of cargo warehouse space. And metro Atlanta’s access to a sophisticated highway system, which also leads to key railroad hubs and ports along the East Coast, expands the business opportunities of companies that choose Atlanta as their home base. In addition, now recognized as a high tech mecca, Atlanta gives businesses access to a fiber optic infrastructure that is second to none. The ability to do business quickly using today’s most innovative technology ultimately gives Atlanta-based businesses a true advantage and the chance to increase their corporate income. It’s all part of the complete package that makes Atlanta one of the most financially viable cities in the nation for companies across a range of industries. n

Switching zip codes? Switch to GNG.

Choose the perfect housewarming gift — a discounted rate or $120 in bill credits.* Sign up today:

1. Visit gng.com/knowatlanta or call 1-888-258-5897 2. Use Promo Code: KNOWATLANTA 3. Provide your real estate agent’s GNG Referral Code, and we’ll thank them too! Enrollment eligibility, price plan availability and actual customer service charge, deposit requirement and price per therm are subject to GNG’s credit and payment policies. See gng.com for price plans and customer service charge ranges. All price plans are subject to GNG’s terms and conditions of service. *Offer limited to qualified residential customers who enroll on an eligible price plan between 01/05/2021 – 01/04/2022 using applicable promotion code; existing customers are eligible only where gas service is retained with GNG at the new premises. Customer may select either a discounted price or bill credits. If selected, $10/month credit available for a total of 12 consecutive months. To remain eligible for the discounted price or bill credits, customer must remain on the selected price plan during the applicable period and pay all charges billed by the date due, or discount or credits, as applicable, will be cancelled and customer will continue to be billed at the price plan rate without any discount or credits. Customer may not receive both bill credits and rate discount. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Referring real estate professionals are eligible to receive a $60 Visa Reward Card for qualifying residential referrals. © 2021 Georgia Natural Gas. All rights reserved. 01/2021

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 23

A Spectacular Staycation

Relax and recharge around the corner in Alpharetta Alpharetta City Center

or the last year, we’ve all been city,” says Janet Rodgers, president and dreaming about places we would CEO of the Alpharetta Convention and go when the time is right to travel. Visitors Bureau. “Alpharetta is filled with We’ve mused of excursions to locales a host of awesome restaurants, shops and where we could relax, recharge and just attractions, plus 29 modern hotels ready have a good time. As we get ready to hit the road again, a near-cation in our own backyard is a great way to start. And one of the metro area’s most popular and esteemed cities is located just a quick jaunt up GA 400. In fact, ask its residents and they know exactly where they would go: Awesome Alpharetta. “If Alpharetta is where you call home or is just a short drive away, I invite you to live Big Creek Greenway like a tourist in our vibrant 24 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

to pamper travelers for a special staycation. It’s the perfect opportunity to try that new restaurant, explore a different park and maybe find something new to love about Alpharetta.”

All-in-One Alpharetta It’s not often that one city has it all, including outstanding shopping, world-class dining and a wide range of excellent entertainment. Yet, that’s exactly what Alpharetta encompasses within its city limits. Shopping options abound with more than 250 shops located in such destinations as Downtown Alpharetta, the North Point area and

Avalon

Jekyll Brewing

Avalon. Boasting more than 500,000 square feet of retail space and upwards of 60 luxury retailers, including Apple, Lululemon, Pottery Barn and Tesla, Avalon is a resort-style walkable community where you can stroll the boulevard with your cocktail in hand from one of the restaurants while looking for a great fashion ensemble for tomorrow’s Alpharetta excursion. Quaint boutiques and renowned brands also are represented by the abundance of shopping options in Downtown Alpharetta, with more than 35 shops like Magnolia Moon, La Bella Maison, elleB Gifts, All Inspired Boutique, Mountain High Outfitters and Exquisite Living. And the North Point

area, which is home to North Point Mall, currently boasts over 100 retailers inside the mall and surrounding it. From REI to Sugarboo & Co, Honey & Hazel to Dick’s Sporting Goods, the North Point area lets you shop ‘til your spending heart is content. In coming years, the mall area will undergo a major redevelopment initiative that will transform it into an open-air mixed-use development. When the shopping day is done, it is definitely time to dine and unwind, and Alpharetta cannot be beat with its exceptional epicurean scene. More than 200 restaurants—many of them chefdriven—can be found across the city, and every imaginable type of cuisine is available to be enjoyed. Restaurants like Butcher & Brew, Jekyll Brewing, Colletta, Restaurant Holmes, CRU Food & Wine Bar, Ray’s Killer Creek, Secreto, Vinny’s, Farm to Ladle and many more continue to delight everyone’s palate. A myriad of Alpharetta restaurants offer al fresco dining to accommodate social distancing and fresh air for their patrons’ comfort and enjoyment. Want to sharpen up your own skills in the kitchen? Alpharetta also has two cooking schools that provide culinary experiences and workshops for bona fide foodies; Publix Aprons Cooking School and Williams Sonoma Avalon offer an array of classes that allow participants to learn about and savor delectable dishes during a single session. Of course, Alpharetta has some of the best entertainment venues in the metro area, such as Ameris Bank Amphitheater, Topgolf, Main Event Entertainment and

Urban Escape Games. What’s more, the city’s events are can’t-miss community opportunities, from Avalon Nights Live and the Alpharetta Farmers Market to free yoga in Brooke Street Park, the rotating art exhibits at the Alpharetta Arts Center and live music throughout the week at restaurants and venues around the city. You also can’t overlook the countless outdoor adventures available throughout the area. Alpharetta features more than 800 acres of green space and parkland across an array of public parks, which feature playground and exercise equipment, walking trails, bicycle routes and even free workout classes (which are an excellent complement to the many spas, wellness centers and fitness facilities available throughout the city) to help you stay well during your staycation. There are art walks, history walks, music under the stars, outdoor comedy nights, four arboretums and so much more.

The “Stay” in Staycation There is nothing like opening the door to a fresh hotel room, with its crisp bedding and delightful décor welcoming you for a wonderful stay. In Alpharetta, there are 29 hotel options ready and waiting to help you set the magnificent tone for your close-to-home vacay. From well-known and established brands to up-and-coming names in the hospitality industry, there’s something for every taste and budget. Of course, every hotel in the area has adopted stringent health and cleanliness procedures to help guests feel at ease during their relaxing getaway. From increased cleaning routines to social distancing and face mask policies, these facilities strive to ensure that everyone feels comfortable during their experience.

Explore, Enjoy and Exhale With all of us eager to get out and hit the road, it’s nice to know that there are destinations like Alpharetta right around the corner that can help us enjoy our surroundings and exhale for a moment. There’s no better time to explore everything that Alpharetta has to offer. The city is waiting. What are you waiting for? n To plan your staycation in Alpharetta, visit awesomealpharetta.com. SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 25

Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities Before you even put the key in the lock of your new home, you have to prepare the property for your arrival. This means getting all of your utilities up and running as soon as possible after your home closing. Here in metro Atlanta, there are a number of services you’ll need to set up as a new homeowner in the area. Be sure to put these on your list as you begin the process.

Natural Gas

Electricity

While metro Atlanta may have a temperate climate, you’ll definitely want to warm your home when the mercury dips during the winter months. Also, natural gas is one of the key methods for water heating, cooking, clothes drying and more. You’ll need to select a natural gas provider as you begin arranging your utility service. There are a few key providers that serve the metro Atlanta area, and you’ll want to do some research regarding rates, customer service offerings, possible discounts and more. Fortunately, most natural gas providers today allow you to learn about their service and sign up online, making the process quick and convenient.

Accounting for 48 percent of household energy use in Georgia, electricity needs to be at the top of your utility service list. Depending on where your home is located, you have options when it comes to selecting your energy provider. You can select a company like Georgia Power, which is the largest subsidiary of the Southern Company, or you may want to consider one of the many Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs) that also provide electricity across the metro area; these member-owned non-profit utilities serve more than four million customers and are part of the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation. Again, you can research provider options online.

Did You Know? Georgia deregulated its natural gas market in 1998. Atlanta Gas Light owns and controls the natural gas pipelines; natural gas marketers work with the company to access the pipelines and then provide gas rate plans and service for customers. Companies like Georgia Natural Gas and SCANA Energy offer both fixed rate and variable rate plans depending on your needs. Georgia Natural Gas: 888-258-5897 SCANA Energy: 866-353-7835

26 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Water With the metro Atlanta area being so large and comprised of so many cities, towns and municipalities, it’s no surprise that there are various entities that provide water and sewer service. Typically, your home will be serviced by either the county water authority or, if you live within city limits, the city government. If you are moving into a previously

owned home, the former owners should be able to provide you with information. If it’s a new home, the builder can point you in the right direction.

Phone, Cable and Internet These days, phone, cable and Internet service is just as important as every other utility in your home. In metro Atlanta, major service providers like Xfinity and AT&T are going to be the most common options when it comes to selecting your service, as they cover the entire area. Some counties do offer alternatives, giving you the opportunity to personalize your selection and ultimate service. As with all other utilities, a bit of online research can make the process fast and seamless.

TIP

To see which providers serve the county in which your home is located, be sure to check out KNOWAtlanta Magazine’s County Pages, starting on page 60.

Moving to Atlanta Checklist There’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door. Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.

ONE MONTH Before o Research your options for moving or truck rental companies and schedule your move. o Collect and organize necessary school, medical and legal records. o Complete a change of address with your local post office or online at usps.gov. o Notify other important parties of your change of address, including your bank, credit card companies, insurance companies and subscription services. o Schedule disconnection of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and Internet.

ONE WEEK Before o Confirm travel arrangements and pack a travel kit for you and your family members for the move. o Confirm dates and time of packing and moving with the moving company. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements. o Finalize your packing and doublecheck that all areas (including closets, garage, attic and basement) are cleared. o Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box; include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.

o Hold a garage sale or donate items that you decide not to keep.

ONE DAY Before o Complete a house check; defrost the freezer, drain the water hose and disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move. o Make sure to have cash on hand to tip the team from the moving company. o Confirm hotel or temporary accommodations, if needed. o Check the moving company paperwork to identify the USDOT number of the truck that is scheduled; the number appears on the side of the truck and should match on moving day.

PLANNING A MOVE? Save money on your natural gas with SCANA Energy. Schedule your new service up to 90 days in advance by calling 1-866-353-7835, or visit SCANAENERGY.COM.

KNOWAtlanta’s GUIDE TO NEW HOMES

The Price is Right

A look at how far your dollar can go in metro Atlanta’s new home market By Amy Meadows

n recent years, metro Atlanta has become well-known for the affordability that can be found in the real estate market. Residents who have relocated to the area often are amazed and delighted by the various options they have and the

types of homes that are well within their budgets, particularly when it comes to new home construction. Of course, what you get in return for what you spend will depend on a home’s location, features and amenities. To help you get a better

The $300s #1: A Three-Story Townhome in Greysolon by The Providence Group Where is it located? Duluth, Gwinnett County What is the home like? The Glendale floor plan offers three-bedrooms, 3.5 baths and a twocar garage in 2,000 square feet of space. The open main level layout features a gourmet kitchen overlooking the dining and family room, and the plan includes a spacious owner’s suite and private path, as well as a guest bedroom on the entry level and a second bedroom and laundry on the upper level. Greysolon is a gated community with open green spaces, a grilling area, a dog park and more. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Home buyers in every stage of life #2: A One-Level Flat in Oxley Edgewood by Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company Where is it located? Atlanta, DeKalb County What is the home like? From the Manor Home Flats Collection, which offers seven designs of either one-level or three-level homes, this 870-square-

picture of what to expect when you begin your own home search out in the local market, KNOWAtlanta Magazine asked some of the area’s top homebuilders to share what they offer within three popular new home price points.

foot craftsman-style residence features an open floor plan with one bedroom, one bath, a spacious living room, a well-appointed kitchen, a study/office, nine-foot ceilings and more. Rooftop terraces are available on select homes. The neighborhood, Oxley Edgewood, is steps away from shopping, dining and nightlife and gives residents access to grilling stations, a fire pit, a bocce court and a dog run, among other amenities. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Professional couples, young families, independents/singles, empty nesters #3: A Ranch in Riverwood by Davidson Homes Where is it located? Dallas, Paulding County What is the home like? Offering four bedrooms and three baths in just over 2,000 square feet of space, this home is replete with comfort and convenience. It features an open-concept family room and kitchen that are perfect for entertaining, as well as a spacious master suite and additional bedrooms. A rear patio completes the retreat feel of this residence, which is located in a community that offers a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, tennis and pickleball courts and more. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? First-time home buyers and downsizers

The $300s

1 28 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

The $500s

The $500s #1: A Two-Story Single-Family Home in Idylwilde by The Providence Group Where is it located? Canton, Cherokee County What is the home like? The Beaufort floor plan features three bedrooms, 2.5 baths and more than 2,300 square feet in a modern farmhouse aesthetic. The master is on the main floor, which also boasts a kitchen with a large island and views to the great room. The terrace level includes two bedrooms, a loft and walk-in storage. The community is gated and offers access to a clubhouse, pickleball courts, walking trails and a community garden. Each homesite is HOA-maintained. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Families and empty nesters #2: A Three-Story Townhome in Oxley Edgewood by Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company Where is it located? Atlanta, DeKalb County What is the home like? A three-bedroom, 3.5-bath home with nearly 2,000 square feet of space, this residence from the Townhome Collection features an open floor plan, abundant natural light, curated designer finishes, outdoor living space and more. It also includes a covered porch, a terrace and a gourmet kitchen. The quiet neighborhood is adjacent to the Edgewood Retail District, with an abundance of shopping and dining options; it also is a half-mile to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Professional couples, young families, independents/singles, empty nesters #3: A Ranch Home in The Reserve at Governors Towne Club by Patrick Malloy Communities Where is it located? Acworth, Paulding County What is the home like? With three bedrooms, 2.5 baths and more than 2,800 square feet, the Wellington from Patrick Malloy Communities takes ranch living to the next level. The home features an open floor plan that includes a gourmet kitchen with a walk-in pantry and spacious

3 breakfast area, a welcoming owner’s suite, two secondary bedrooms, a flex space that can be used as an office or study and a covered porch. The gated country club community allows residents to enjoy a full-service clubhouse, a day spa and private tennis and aquatic facilities. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? All kinds of buyers

The $700s+ #1: A Two-Story Single-Family Home in Bellmoore Park by The Providence Group Where is it located? Johns Creek, Fulton County What is the home like? With more than 3,000 square feet of living space, including four bedrooms and 3.5 baths, this home from the Americana Collection is as luxurious as it is functional. It also features a main level owner’s suite, a gourmet kitchen, an upper-level spacious retreat, outdoor living space with an optional fireplace and more. Bellmoore Park is a master-planned, gated community. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? All kinds of buyers, including families #2: A Four-Story Townhome in Emerson on Krog from Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company Where is it located? Atlanta, Fulton County What is the home like? Impeccably designed and featuring an open floor plan with ample natural light, this luxury townhome starts at $1 million. It offers approximately 2,500 square feet of living space that includes a gourmet kitchen, three bedrooms, 3.5 baths and more than 400 square feet of additional outdoor living space. Nine- and 10-foot ceilings, wide-plank flooring, a designer lighting package, private terraces and more await new homeowners. The community is located at the corner of Krog Street and Edgewood Avenue, only a walk away from an eclectic entertainment scene. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Professional couples, young families, independents/singles, empty nesters

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 29

KNOWAtlanta’s GUIDE TO NEW HOMES The $700s+

#3: A Two-Story Single Family Home in Manor Estates by Davidson Homes Where is it located? Marietta, Cobb County What is the home like? The flexible Catalina floor plan offers four bedrooms, 4.5 baths and a four-car garage in nearly 3,300 square feet. The interior boasts an open-concept design with a ground floor owner’s suite and a luxurious en suite bathroom, as well as additional spaces like a covered porch and a game room. Two expansive garages

3 each boast a two-car capacity. The gated community is just moments away from Downtown Marietta and a host of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Who is most likely to purchase a home like this? Active Adults For more information, visit: Davidson Homes: davidsonhomesllc.com Patrick Malloy Communities: pmcommunities.com The Providence Group: theprovidencegroup.com Thrive Residential: livethriveresidential.com

The Providence Group From $300s-$1M

Davidson Homes

From High $200s-$1M+ Davidson Homes is your community builder, providing quality construction and materials, superior value and an unprecedented level of personalization. We keep the home buyer in mind in everything we do, every step of the way. Davidson Homes is now offering a diverse range of floor plans in Bartow, Cherokee, East Cobb, West Forsyth, Gwinnett, Henry and East Paulding counties. Give us a call or visit our website today!

(404) 999-1579

davidsonhomesllc.com 30 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Proud to be the leading luxury homebuilder in Atlanta, The Providence Group offers 20+ communities in Atlanta’s most sought-after locations. The Providence Group features a home design and community to fit every lifestyle, with designs offering a range of options, including third-level retreats, finished terrace levels, main level owner’s suites, gourmet kitchens and more. Community amenity packages typically include gated entrances, pools, clubhouses and lawn care. The award-winning design center allows home buyers to personalize their new home.

(678) 990-8561

theprovidencegroup.com

Lennar

David Weekley Homes

Lennar Homes creates safe, amenity-rich communities in Cherokee, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Jackson and Paulding counties. Our Everything’s Included® package adds extra value, including finish, appliance and technology upgrades. We also offer a simple home buying experience, enabling customers to make a lifestyle leap with ease. Tour our floorplans, see all the extras we include and move up to a brand new stylish Lennar home.

David Weekley Homes has been delighting customers in Atlanta for more than 15 years with four decades of building experience across the country. Weekley is one of the most sought-after builders for home buyers seeking a quality home and unmatched customer service. David Weekley Homes is currently building in communities throughout the Atlanta area, including beautiful homes in Buckhead, Kirkwood, Smyrna, Woodstock, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta and Decatur.

From the High $300s-$700s

(404) 931-7462

Mid $300s-Mid $800s

(404) 789-3033

lennar.com/atlanta

davidweekleyhomes.com

Lake Arrowhead

Traton Homes/Courtyards at Camden

From $200s-$900s

Resort-style living keeps getting better. Welcome to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain, lake and golf community just outside of Canton. The community’s 540-acre lake showcases over 21 miles of shoreline, a marina, lakeside park and hiking trails. Its portfolio includes ranch homes, master-on-main townhomes, luxury lakeside villas and custom lakeside homes. Premier home sites are available. A low Cherokee County tax base and one of the state’s safest cities await you.

(770) 720 -2700

lakearrowheadga.com

High $300s-$400s

Nestled in a premier West Cobb location on Mars Hill Road is Courtyards at Camden, Traton Homes’ new 55+ community. Gorgeous ranch homes with private courtyards are perfect for relaxing, gardening or entertaining. Community amenities include a clubhouse, pool, firepit, bocce ball court and dog park. The community is located minutes from the area’s best shopping, dining, recreation and healthcare facilities.

(678) 391-9496

tratonhomes.com SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 31

KNOWAtlanta’s GUIDE TO NEW HOMES

Traditions of Braselton From Low $300s-$700s

Welcome to Traditions of Braselton! Brimming with scenic beauty, this 1,140-acre master-planned community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains features an 18-hole championship golf course, opulent clubhouse, junior Olympicsized pool, six lighted tennis courts, an active HOA, highly revered schools, convenience to I-85 and more! Stunning new homes crafted by the South’s finest builders are priced from the low $300s to $700s. Traditions has it all!

(706) 684-0450

40 West 12th

From $800s-$2M+ With elaborate detail throughout and chic finish options, the residences at 40 West 12th offer effortless elegance in Atlanta’s premier Midtown neighborhood. From dual-sided fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling glass walls to unmatched marble details and well-appointed kitchens and baths, the uniquely crafted details speak for themselves.

(404) 347-3838

discovertraditionsbraselton.com/KNOW

40west12th.com

Patrick Malloy Communities

Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company

Patrick Malloy Communities was founded in 1994 by Patrick Malloy, in an era when your home was part of your neighborhood, and your neighborhood a part of your life. Today, Patrick Malloy Communities continues its tradition of building high-quality homes that offer exceptional features in neighborhoods that enhance peoples’ lives. Over the past 25 years, the firm has built more than 7,000 exceptional homes in the Atlanta area, a total of more than $1.5 billion in sales.

Thrive Residential has you covered in Atlanta’s most coveted neighborhoods. Since 2006, Thrive Residential has specialized in building unique, urban, infill communities. Our locations are second to none, offering residents access to amenities including the Atlanta BeltLine, parks, local restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and public transportation. Thrive Residential is currently building throughout the area in Inman Park, Edgewood, East Atlanta Village, Decatur and Oakhurst.

(770) 635-4090

(855) 229-5676

From $500s-$1M+

pmcommunities.com 32 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

From $300s-$1M+”

livethriveresidential.com

Rocklyn Homes High $100s-$500s

Rocklyn Homes is an award-winning, family-owned company with a unique vision and passion to build beautiful, awardwinning, single-family homes and townhomes at great prices in some of the most sought-after locations in Atlanta. Backed by years of experience, they will deliver quality, value and reliability in every home they build. Visit a Rocklyn community and discover the Rocklyn difference: “The Most Important Home We’ll Build Is Yours.”

(770) 817-2185

rocklynhomes.com

The River Club Mid $200s-$1M+

Entering the gates of The River Club, you’ll find a community of serene natural beauty, exquisitely crafted custom homes on rolling topography and an exceptional living opportunity. Built around one of Greg Norman’s celebrated golf courses and nestled into the woodlands along the Chattahoochee River, The River Club is a sanctuary from the outside world. This is, quite simply, the finest lifestyle experience available anywhere in Atlanta.

(678) 541-6434

riverclub.com

Need more information when making your move? Visit knowatlanta.com to learn more about metro Atlanta, including information on healthcare, housing options, educational opportunities, city and county details and maps to help navigate your way around the area.

Paran Homes

Mid $200s-$600s+ Boasting nearly a century of combined experience in new home construction and an award-winning team of industry veterans at the helm, Paran Homes builds homes of uncompromised quality in many of Atlanta’s most sought-after locations while delivering a stellar home buying experience. Buyers can select from an array of move-in ready homes or personalize their home with the latest options from our Design Studio. Schedule an appointment and tour one of our models today!

(770) 648-3113

paranhomes.com/know

KNOWAtlanta.com SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 33

Builder and Developer Locator Map David Weekley Homes

Lennar Atlanta

1. Ashbury

17. Towns at The Junction

2. Broadview Place

18. Towns at Elevate

3. Hargrove

19. Dunwoody Village

4. Grand Reserve

20. Aspen Grove

5. Marietta Township

21. Promenade at The Square

Davidson Homes

Paran Homes

37. The River Club Rocklyn Homes 38. Cannon Trace 39. Bentley Estates 40. Seaboard Township 41. South Wind 42. Townes of Auburn

6. Cooper Place

22. Oakleigh Pointe

7. Riverwood

23. Magnolia Court

8. Mountainbrook

24. Seaboard Junction

43. Emerson on Krog

9. The Village at Towne Lake

25. Millwood Farms

44. Oxley Edgewood

10. Manor Estates

26. Gladstone

45. Portland Row

Engel & Völkers Atlanta

Patrick Malloy Communities

11. The Atlantic

27. Milton Run

12. 1065 Midtown

28. Kyle Farm

13. District Lofts

29. Wescott

14. 40 West 12th

30. Horizon at Laurel Canyon

15. Chastain East

31. Hillandale

16. Lake Arrowhead

The Providence Group

46. Park 108 47. New Talley Station 48. Traditions of Braselton Traton Homes 49. Logans Walk 50. Courtyards at Camden 51. Kirk Ridge

32. Waterside

52. Edgemoore at Milford

33. Atley

53. The Grove at Adams Pond

34. Harvest Park 35. Pratt Stacks 36. Idylwilde

34 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company

Lumpkin

Pickens Dawson

Bartow

Forsyth

Cherokee 30

Hall

CARTERSVILLE

MILTON

33 29

JOHNS CREEK

Cobb 10

Fulton

Paulding 40

Barrow 38

Jackson

52 28 53

Gwinnett

49 18

MON 24

26 2 13 11

12 43 14

Atlanta 35

44 3

Walton

47 46

45 39

DeKalb

Douglas 41

SOCIA

Fulton Clayton

Rockdale Newton

Carroll Coweta Fayette

Henry

SHARPSBURG

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 35

55+ LIVING CHOICES

The Right Move The top five reasons to consider active adult living in metro Atlanta By Stacy Moser

hether or not you’re close to considering retirement, you may be one of the many empty nesters who are choosing to purchase homes in active adult communities today. These specialized neighborhoods are designed for the aging in place population—adults who intend to remain as active as ever but want to downsize and join a community of compatible neighbors. In fact, According to Kiplinger Magazine, “While most pre-retirees expect to stay in the same state or region once they retire, 40 percent want to take the opportunity to try someplace completely different.” If that describes you, the following factors might 36 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

lure you to one of the many active adult communities right here in metro Atlanta.

#1: A Sense of Belonging The rise in popularity of active adult communities comes as no surprise to Michael Rosenberg, president and COO of Crawford Creek Communities, who is also chair of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association’s 55+ Council. He notes, “The aging population is more active now, and the idea of just retiring and going off into the sunset has gone by the wayside. People want to be with like-minded folks of a similar age, and they want to engage in lots of activities.”

Rosenberg recently assembled a panel of real estate experts to explore and identify the most important amenity an active adult property can offer. “They said it’s the clubhouse because people want a place to get together, to be social. Home buyers are often moving into smaller homes in these communities, so they want a place to have a big party; clubhouse features, like a warming kitchen and cozy fireplace, are really appealing to them.” Kris Johnson, sales and marketing director for Windsong Properties, also recognizes the trend and says, “These communities are just the right size to get to know neighbors who are in the same

life stage. The clubhouse is designed so homeowners can enjoy regular social activities, holiday events, exercise clubs and classes, all designed by homeowners so they’re specific to the interests of the whole neighborhood.”

#2: Mother Nature’s Open Arms As many active adults endure social isolation due to COVID-19, they seek natural beauty in their surroundings. Judie Woodall, a managing member of Strategic Real Estate Advisors, describes home buyers at Lake Arrowhead’s master planned community, stating “The pandemic has caused people to do more ‘cocooning,’ so outdoor living areas with a tranquil, peaceful environment is what everyone is so desperate for this year. Outdoor fireplaces, big windows and expanded porches offering longrange views of the golf course, mountains or lake are what they want after being quarantined on a Zoom call. They just want to get back to nature. Lake Arrowhead is just six miles from a grocery store, but once you arrive home, you never want to leave.”

Lake Arrowhead

Kimberly Garwood, director of marketing for Traton Homes, says that the company’s active adult home designs highlight Atlanta’s climate, which boasts on average 217 sunny days per year. To-

day’s active adults want to take advantage of that, especially if they have turned in their snow shovels for bottles of sunscreen thanks to a relocation. She says, “A private courtyard forms the center-

I VERSAR

EB R ATIO

for 50 Years Strong! — Voted Cobb County’s Best Builder —

Since 1971, locally-owned Traton Homes had been giving Atlanta-area homebuyers “Altogether More!”…more desirable locations, more stylish home designs, more desirable features and more value! Visit our website to learn more about our beautiful new townhome, 55+ active adult and single-family detached home communities priced from the low $300’s to the $500’s. See All of Our Communities at

TratonHomes.com

Winner

Sales and Marketing by Traton Homes Realty. All information is believed accurate but is not warranted. Subject to errors, omissions and changes without notice.

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 37

55+ LIVING CHOICES piece of our living spaces, allowing you access to a quiet, peaceful, private oasis just steps from anywhere in your home.”

#3: Accessible Living There’s a reason that ranch-style architecture gained so much popularity when it arrived on the American scene in the 1920s: the low-slung, single-story home easily accommodates family members of all ages. The style is particularly accommodating for seniors due to its lack of stairs and easy indoor/outdoor access. Additionally, it celebrates the informal aspects of living and entertaining, with large uninterrupted rooms and plenty of windows to let in natural light. Johnson describes the emphasis on livability in active adult home designs, stating, “We focus on accessible design

elements, [such as] open and spacious main level living and separate spaces for hobbies, offices or exercise rooms. Courtyard home designs, with private areas to relax and enjoy the outdoors, are perfect for pets—they’re fenced and secure. And the exterior lawn maintenance we provide makes it easy to ‘lock and leave,’ enjoying travel without worry.” According to Jim Chapman, president of Jim Chapman Communities, “For many, the larger home where parents raised children is no longer necessary. Perhaps the yard requires too many hours of maintenance, or stairs and narrow doorways might become challenging. Maybe the grandchildren live too far away for easy visits. And, while many empty nesters are eager to enjoy shopping, dining, recreation and entertainment,

many find themselves isolated in neighborhoods without easy access to those amenities. For these reasons, active adult communities have become extremely popular in the Greater Atlanta area.”

#4: Financial Well-Being Not only is a move to an active adult community a positive lifestyle change for empty nesters, but it also is a smart financial move. “We build these homes in the suburbs and beyond because that’s where the adult children and grandchildren of many our active-adult residents live,” Chapman notes. “Many of our communities are close to small towns with exciting, walkable town centers, where taxes and the cost of living is lower, but enjoyment is higher.” In fact, the cost of living for Georgians

Coming Soon: New 55+ Communities The popularity of communities catering to the active adult segment of the market is evidenced by these latest arrivals in metro Atlanta. Courtyards at Camden Builder: Traton Homes Location: West Cobb/Acworth Type: Ranch homes, 55+ restricted Amenities: Private courtyards, clubhouse, pool, firepit gathering area, bocce ball court, dog park Courtyards at Ebenenzer Builder: Traton Homes Location: East Cobb Type: Ranch homes, 55+ restricted Amenities: Private courtyards, community pavilion

Kirk Ridge Builder: Traton Homes Location: Kennesaw Type: Ranch homes, 55+ restricted Amenities: Private courtyards, community pavilion Windmill Park at Brown’s Farm Builder: Traton Homes Location: Carrollton Type: Single-family homes, activeadult but not age-restricted Amenities: Clubhouse, pickleball, bocce ball, access to Carrollton Greenbelt

Marlowe Builder: Windsong Properties Location: Woodstock Type: Ranch homes, 55+ restricted Amenities: Clubhouse with grand room and gathering kitchen, exercise studio, fireside pavilion, pond Saddlebrook Builder: Century Communities Location: Snellville Type: Single-family homes, 55+ restricted Amenities: Pool, dog park, pickleball courts, clubhouse, walking trails, fire pit Lake Arrowhead Builder: Majestic Lifestyle Builders, Rezide Properties Location: Waleska Type: Ranch homes, townhomes, golf villas, lakeside villas, luxury lakeside custom homes with deep-water docks; Age-targeted not restricted. Amenities: Lake, marina, lakeside park, fishing, boat rental and sailing programs, hiking trails, golf course, pro shop, clubhouse with restaurant, grill/restaurant, Great Festival Park, sport courts, pickleball, tennis, resortstyle swimming pools

Saddlebrook 38 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

who seek out retirement in active adult communities prioritize a healthy lifestyle. Atlanta is home to an abundance of medical and bioscience-related institutions and internationally recognized hospitals and clinics offering world-class care. Healthcare expenses are particularly affordable here, with the sixth-lowest average healthcare costs in the country for a retired couple. According to Bestplaces.net, Atlanta offers 10 percent lower healthcare costs than the national average, and there are almost double the number of physicians in the area compared to the national average. With so many of these facilities located close to metro Atlanta’s 55+ communities, the ability to maintain your health is one of the area’s most important amenities. n

Windmill Park by Traton Homes

is seven percent lower than the national average (and one percent lower for Atlantans), and Georgia’s tax law is clearly set up to benefit retirees. Social Security income isn’t taxed by the state, plus there are exemptions on taxation of retirement income (like rental income, pensions and annuities) and other tax breaks for adults beginning at age 62. And utility prices are

a whopping 15 percent lower than the national average, according to financial planning website Payscale.com. All of these factors confirm Kiplinger Magazine’s assessment in 2019 that Georgia ranks as the third best state in which to retire.

#5: A Healthy Environment It seems only natural that residents

For more information, visit: Crawford Creek Communities: crawfordcreekcommunities.com Jim Chapman Communities: jimchapmancommunities.com Lake Arrowhead: lakearrowheadga.com Traton Homes: tratonhomes.com Windsong Properties: windsonglife.com

WOODLANDS / HIGHLANDS VISTA

Majestic Lifestyle Builders Ranch-Style Homes from the High $200s - $400s

It’s Boating Season!

SANCTUARY COVE

Majestic Lifestyle Builders Luxury Lakeside Living from the Low $400s - $900s Premier Lake Lots from the $200s

WOODLANDS

Rezide Properties Ranch Style Homes from the Mid $200s

PARK OVERLOOK / GOLF VILLAS

Rezide Properties Master On Main Townhomes from the Mid $300s Luxury Golf View Villas from the Low $400s

MARINA PARC VILLAS

Rezide Properties Luxury Lake View Villas from the Mid $400s

BLUFFS AT HIGHLANDS VISTA L AK E AR ROWH E AD APPROVE D BU ILD E RS

DR Horton Single Family Homes from the High $200s TA K E A V I R T U A L T O U R

D I S C O V E R Y T O U R S AVA I L A B L E I N O U R C H A R M I N G G O L F V I L L A 2419 Lake Arrowhead Drive | Waleska, GA 30183

LakeArrowhead_KnowAtlHlfPgFinal.indd 1

LAK EAR R OWH EAD GA.COM | 770-720-2700

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 39 1/30/21 3:37 PM

LEASING

How to Find Temporary Housing

By TP Corporate Lodging

hen traveling or relocating to a new city, one can almost always find numerous options for short-term stays or long-term leases— but finding temporary housing can be a challenge at times. And yet, there are many situations in which people need a place for longer than a few days or weeks, but not long enough to warrant signing an unfurnished lease. As a result, they often end up jockeying between hotels and Airbnb rentals for weeks or months, often at great expense. The truth is that there are numerous temporary housing options out there—if you know where to look for them. There are ways to find comfortable, furnished lodging for as long as you need without necessarily breaking the bank. The following guide will provide an overview of temporary housing options ideal for extended stays, explain where to look for them and provide additional tips to help you select the ideal housing choice for your needs. 40 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Reasons Why People Need Temporary Housing Why would someone need to come into a city for several weeks or months at a time? It turns out there are plenty of situations that call for extended stays. Let’s look at a few of the most common. Relocation People move to a new city for many reasons, whether it’s a job transfer, to take a new job, new military orders or just for a change. Sometimes, people must relocate before finding permanent housing or before a permanent place becomes available. At other times, an incoming family may need to wait for a new house to be built. In cases like these, temporary housing provides comfortable accommodations until permanent housing becomes available. Home Renovations and Repairs Occasionally, natural disasters can make

a home unlivable, or home renovations are so extensive that the family may need to vacate while construction takes place. Extended stay housing can offer shelter for months at a time while these repairs or renovations are completed. Long-Term Hospital Visits When someone is ill and needs long-term treatment that their typical healthcare provider can’t offer, they may need to travel to a healthcare facility that offers that type of care. If the facility offers treatment on an outpatient basis, that patient will need a comfortable place to stay for the duration of the treatment. Likewise, family members may need to stay in town to offer support and look after their loved ones. Extended Business Trips More and more companies these days are sending employees and team members to various locations for long-term assignments. You may be sent out of town, for

example, to lend your expertise on a complicated project, to facilitate opening a new branch location or to scope out new clients. An increasing number of business trips nowadays call for stays of several weeks or even several months. Film and TV Shoots Location filming has become quite prevalent in recent years, especially in growing film and TV hotspots like Atlanta. These shoots often last for weeks and months on end, and the cast and crew need comfortable places to stay in the meantime. Temporary housing can often rescue a filming budget from tens of thousands of dollars in hotel bills.

Options for Short-Term/Temporary Housing Now that we’ve explored some of the reasons why people seek out temporary housing, let’s take a closer look at what housing options are typically available in a city and how and where to look for them. Extended Stay Hotels For expected stays of several weeks or more, one of the first places people tend to look is extended stay hotels in the area. You can usually find these hotels in almost any commercial cluster in a city, especially near major highways, thoroughfares and airports. Extended stay hotels usually offer suite-like accommodations at discounted weekly or even monthly rates, and some even configure their suites like small apartment units to make guests more comfortable. While extended stay hotels provide a more affordable solution than conventional hotels, the costs can still add up over time. In addition, even extended stay suites can feel cramped and claustrophobic after several weeks. Vacation Rentals (e.g., Airbnb, Vrbo) Another option to look at for temporary housing is to check out vacation rentals, which can be found in abundance on sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. These rentals can be found in almost any city or town these days, but you’ll find the greatest selection in tourist destinations. Some of these rentals will offer discounted rates for extended stays, and they range in size from a single room to a fully furnished house. The downside to this approach is that most of

these rentals are managed by individual owners. While platforms like Airbnb do try to monitor for consistency in honesty and quality, the system is not foolproof, and people do have bad experiences from time to time. Additionally, the discounts are generally not deep enough to keep costs from accumulating over time. Sublets Another temporary housing option, one that works well for some people, is the option of sublets. Quite often, people may need to leave their home for months or years at a time, so they will sublet their home as temporary housing, usually at a rate comparable to what they’re actually paying in rent. Finding a good sublet can be challenging because they aren’t broadly advertised. Most people find sublets through online classifieds like Craigslist, word of mouth or perhaps via social media. The other challenge with subletting is that it’s a largely unregulated market, so it’s easier to get conned.

Corporate Housing/Short-Term Rentals The fourth option for temporary housing is to seek corporate lodging in the area, typically through a third-party corporate housing agency like TP Corporate Lodging. Corporate housing companies specialize in setting up and renting fully furnished apartment housing for several weeks or months at a time. The rates are significantly more affordable than extended stay hotels or vacation rentals. This can be an excellent solution for corporate travelers and people needing extended stay lodging for any of the reasons mentioned above. If you are looking for affordable, comfortable temporary housing in Atlanta, TP Corporate Lodging offers a selection of fully furnished apartments with complete amenities in some of the most convenient neighborhoods in town. n For more information, visit tpcorporatelodging.com

Why a hotel room when you can have an apartment home?

ith a minimum 14-day stay, TP Corporate Lodging residents enjoy all the amenities of a full-size apartment home that costs less than a hotel room.

hether a small or large company, Business Professional or Family; we can accommodate your requests. • Full size kitchen & appliances • Washer & dryer • Desk/work area • Separate Rooms with 2nd TV You don’t have to share with anyone, so it feels a little more like home.

800-428-9997 tpcorporatelodging.com SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 41

FINANCE & MORTGAGE

Home Buyer Education How the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program prepares home buyers for the process By the Georgia Department of Community Affairs

re you ready to buy a house? Before you begin thinking about paint colors and furniture, it is important to educate yourself on the process. From down payments to warranties to credit scores and more, the home buying process is not a simple as some might assume. Do you know where to begin? Jamilla Byrd is a Grants Coordinator at the Georgia Department of Community 42 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Affairs (DCA), a state agency whose mission is to help build strong, vibrant communities. Providing avenues to safe and affordable housing for Georgia residents is an important part of her position. “It is important for clients to be empowered to make sound decisions for home buying,” she says. “Once we educate, we put power back into the client.” With that in mind, DCA has a network of 19 HUD-approved

housing counseling agencies and funds each of these “sub-grantees” to provide access to resources for future homeowners.

Education Through the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program The Georgia Dream Homeownership program is one particular DCA program dedicated to empowerment and education. Home buyer education is required for

“Buying a home is one of the most important decisions a person can make. Therefore, our team works diligently to provide a comprehensive experience that will result in an engaging, fulfilling and worthwhile process for each approved applicant.” Tracey Turman, DCA’s Housing Outreach Coordinator “Anyone receiving down payment assistance is required to take some form of education.” She adds that gaining knowledge about purchasing a home illustrates the importance of the three major Ps:

diligently to provide a comprehensive experience that will result in an engaging, fulfilling and worthwhile process for each approved applicant.”

Getting Started Preparation This involves setting logical, realistic goals and developing credit awareness. Byrd says, “Once you understand the components of credit, you can understand it on a higher level.” By navigating the process, individuals are able to make well-educated decisions and build wealth in the process. Purchasing Byrd notes that she and her team work to help buyers know their mortgage options, fair lending laws and the tenets of fair housing. She says, “It’s important to understanding this as a consumer.”

all approved Georgia Dream program applicants. Various options exist, such as one-on-one counseling, workshops and online classes, which tend to be free or available at reduced costs. For example, eHome America is an online course for Georgia Dream applicants who choose this option. Others who select counseling have access to an individual who can help guide them through the process and answer questions about the essentials, such as interest rates, credit scores and documents. Additionally, studies show that people who complete home buyer education are less likely to default on their mortgages and gain special first-time home buyer programs and mortgages. “HUD has a required uniform system of housing counseling,” Byrd explains.

Protection Not only is it important for people to learn how to purchase a home, but it also is imperative that they receive information on how to protect it. Avoiding foreclosure is essential for this, Byrd says. Tracey Turman, DCA’s Housing Outreach Coordinator, reveals that owning a home is a sound investment for individuals and families moving to Georgia. Therefore, the education process incorporated into the Georgia Dream program provides both shortterm and long-term benefits for those who are approved and move forward in the process. “The education portion is essential to the home buying process,” she emphasizes. “Buying a home is one of the most important decisions a person can make. Therefore, our team works

To begin the process, those interested in the Georgia Dream program must contact an approved participating lender, which can be found online at gadream.com. DCA works with these lenders, as well as the HUD-approved counseling agencies, to guide the client from the beginning of the process to the closing table. The standard loan for eligible home buyers is $5,000. The Protectors, Educators and Nurses (PEN) program provides $7,500 for those who work in public protection education, healthcare or the military. According to Turman, “The company you work for, not the actual position, is the determining factor for the PEN program.” A minimum credit score of 640 is required, and income and purchase price limits must be met. Debt-to-income ratios also are taken into consideration. Once the home buyer education requirements are met, there is a seven- to 10-day compliance review. In addition to working with a real estate agent, applicants can expect to close within 45 to 60 days from start to finish. As Byrd concludes, “The Georgia Dream program has existed for decades. Homeownership is fundamental to quality of life. Therefore, we encourage those with a goal of having their own property to contact our team in order to get the keys to success.” n For more information, visit dca.ga.gov or gadream.com. SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 43

EDUCATION

Meet Me in the Middle Metro Atlanta’s private schools make a difference during the middle grade years

Atlanta International School

High Meadows School

Atlanta Academy

By Amy Meadows

o often, we hear about the importance of early education and how impactful the elementary years can be for children. We also focus quite a bit on those all-encompassing high school years, when college is right around the corner and key life decisions are being made by our teenagers. However, in many cases, the middle school years get lost in that discussion. But these pivotal grades, during which tweens and early teens are trying to find their footing and adapt to new educational and individual challenges, are equally as important as the ones that come both before and after them. Fortunately, metro Atlanta’s private schools have risen to the challenge, mak44 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

ing those middle grade years as welcoming and meaningful as possible. Here, KNOWAtlanta Magazine offers a glimpse of the various approaches taken and opportunities provided by some of the area’s most renowned independent schools.

Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com Location: Roswell Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Atlanta Academy strives to support students as they emerge from their elementary years. The cornerstones of the middle school experience are achievement, leadership,

organization, creativity, self-discipline and social responsibility, and there are high expectations surrounding these tenets. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: The Innovation Center provides state-of-the-art tools and a place for students to bring technology and design together in areas like photography, augmented reality, virtual reality and more. A Stock and Finance class teaches students how the market economy works and how to invest in the stock market. And students may join the award-winning debate team, which has won the North Metro Middle School Debate Championship the past 12 of 15 years.

Atlanta International School aischool.org Location: Atlanta Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: The goal of Atlanta International School’s middle school program is to help students link classroom learning to the world beyond so they can see its relevance in a global context. Teachers present concepts and issues and use students’ questions and observations to move the conversation forward; it is a student-driven approach that is both engaging and an ideal preparation for the next stage of learning, the intellectually rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Numerous opportunities connect students with others from many different countries to provide an appreciation of global issues and an intercultural awareness. The “personal project” allows students to demonstrate what they have learned over the course of a oneyear project based on a topic of global

importance that excites them. The school also offers award-winning Mock Trial and Model United Nations programs and student-led CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) groups, including an investment club that won the Stock Market Game.

High Meadows School highmeadows.org Location: Roswell Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Students are viewed as individuals and honored for what they contribute to the class and school each day; their voices are valued and fostered. Middle school is seen as a notable time of transition from childhood to young adulthood where both academic and personal foundations are developed one-on-one and within the context of a responsive community. The aim is to help students understand themselves better as learners and as human beings who can affect positive change. The school takes a whole-child approach, tending to students’ intellectual and social emotional sides.

Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Sixth and 7th grades are combined into a two-year rotating cross-curricular program that focuses on big guiding questions and themes, including “How do societies balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the community?” and “What does it mean to be human?” Students select two Mini courses every six weeks from topics like animal care, the history of Rock n’ Roll, cooking, debate, stock market, technology, theatre arts, visual arts and more; they also participate in volunteer opportunities in the community.

Holy Spirit Preparatory School holyspiritprep.org Location: Atlanta Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: At Holy Spirit Prep, Middle School is seen as a time of tremendous growth and change—intellectually, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually. The Classical Catholic approach helps students learn and develop reason and judg-

A WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION • Rigorous International Baccalaureate curriculum from Preschool to Grade 12. • A welcoming community with local roots and global reach. • Full immersion Preschool and partial immersion Primary programs in Chinese, French, German, and Spanish.

aischool.org Photos taken before March 2020

2021_AISAd_KnowAtlanta_7.25x4.875_FEB.indd 1

2/12/21 11:39 AM SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 45

EDUCATION ment in light of the truth of the faith. In partnership with parents, the faculty and Campus Ministry work with each middle school student to develop a personalized Formation Plan. Students set goals and objectives in four key areas: Academic, Spiritual, Personal Development and Service. Students also have opportunities to serve in leadership roles on campus. Unique Academic and Extra-Curricular Offerings: The school’s comprehensive educational and formation program includes rigorous offerings in core areas of math, science, English/Language Arts, social studies and Theology, as well as PE, art, music and band. It encourages independent, critical thinking through the use of the Socratic method and Latin and Logic (in 8th grade), as well as participation in student-focused programs that promote personal responsibility. An Advanced Math track for students ready to excel is offered, and STEAM objectives are incorporated throughout the science and math curriculum. Additionally, a majority of the student population participates in extracurricular sports and/or clubs.

King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org Location: Alpharetta Grades: 5 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Students in 5th and 6th grades follow a model that eases the transition from lower school

Lyndon Academy 46 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

to middle school by having one teacher for Math and Science and one teacher for English and History; the 7th and 8th grade model is a more traditional model where students have different teachers for each subject. The goal is for every student to receive a rigorous, academic experience while still focusing on their spiritual and emotional well-being. The focus is not to have kids regurgitate information, but to think critically and understand the “why” behind the information they are learning. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: The Middle School offers Upper School credit for courses in foreign language, math and science; all middle school students are eligible to earn up two Upper School credits, and middle school students who are enrolled in Honors classes are eligible to earn up to four Upper School credits. Eighth grade students can become Middle School Student Representatives, who lead committees comprised of students from all grades in the areas of Service, Student life, Admissions and Publicity. Additionally, teachers lead elective classes varying in interest from Servant Leadership to Cooking.

Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org Location: Holly Springs Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Students do not fade into the background at Lyndon. With a maximum of 18 students in a classroom, and the average being 12, all students have a voice in the classroom and in their education. The school wants students to enter high school prepared to take on continued rigorous courses with the confidence to be fully engaged and successful. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Fifth graders take many courses at the middle school level to get early exposure to the world of middle school. High school credits are offered in the foreign languages; there are electives spanning all curriculum areas, technology and the fine arts; and small class sizes offer more one-on-one teacher interaction. The school also offers an array of extracurricular activities, from band, drama, LEGO Robotics and the Science

Olympiad to cross country, volleyball, golf, softball and more.

Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.com Location: Kennesaw Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: The school understands the developmental age, needs and interests of its students and is very intentional with nurturing relationships and embracing a culture of family, faith and fun. The goal is to grow the whole child. MPCS is a safe place, both mentally and physically, for tweens and teens to explore and discover their God-given gifts. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: The school provides great variety for students to select exploratory classes with a menu of more than 20 courses from which to choose. The Directed Studies program is unique in Christian education, as instruction is tailored to meet the needs of students with various learning challenges. Accelerated and advanced courses are offered in math, language arts and science, and Bible is an academic class in every grade. Every sport that is offered in high school also is available in the middle school; MPCS also boasts a robotics team, Black History Bowl, service opportunities, Murray Arts Academy after-school music lessons and more.

Mount Pisgah Christian School mountpisgahschool.org Location: Johns Creek Grades: 5 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Students at MPCS are known. The school prioritizes connecting with students and creating authentic relationships with them that allow staff and faculty the right to speak into a child’s life. Those relationships are leveraged inside the classroom—knowing when to push, when to let something go, when it is time to celebrate progress and when it’s time to speak difficult truth in love. The school wants children to feel safe—emotionally, physically, spiritually, intellectually—so that they can grow towards independence and be strong participants in their community. MPCS believes that middle school isn’t something students should survive—it is a place where they deserve to thrive.

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive E XPLOR E WE SLEYA N SCHOOL AT W W W. W ESL EYAN SC HOOL. ORG/ A DMI S S I ONS

EDUCATION Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: MPCS feels that middle school should be about trying new things—trying cross country for the first time, taking an Improv class or picking up a cello or drumstick to see how it feels to play. In the fifth grade, students have two different rotations throughout the year, rotating through band, chorus and orchestra, as well as drama, visual art and bible. Sixth grade students choose two different fine arts classes, each for an entire semester. And 7th and 8th grade students get to choose both a “major” and a “minor” elective; majors meet three times a week, and minors meet two times a week, giving students a chance to specialize in areas that interest them while allowing them to try new things.

The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org Location: Atlanta Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: The Middle School program was developed to make school more reflective of real life, to empower students to be seekers and explorers and to inspire all learners— and the larger world. The framework is intentionally focused on the development milestones of middle schoolers: identity, independence, freedom-responsibility balance and leadership. Engaging in learning through student-centered approaches, students are guided by teachers, external experts and their peers to identify, research and solve real-world problems or challenges. The school teaches children to observe and question everything, build empathy muscles, experiment with prototypes and iterate— then do it again.

The Walker School 48 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Understanding that identity, innovation, legacy and impact are core developmental milestones of the middle school experience, students engage in thematic humanities experiences such as the hero’s journey in Grade 6, the human story through the lens of freedom in Grade 7 and conflict and resolution throughout history in Grade 8. The integrated study of STEM emphasizes application and real-world contexts which engage students in their learning through critical and creative thinking, innovation and problem solving. Additionally, middle schoolers participate in daily sessions devoted to mind and body, such as skills-based physical education, executive function, foundational and study skills and project management. Students also experience arts and design courses each year, including music, dance/movement, maker, design and engineering, visual arts, digital and graphic media and more.

North Cobb Christian School ncchristian.org Location: Kennesaw Grades: 5 through 8 The Middle School Difference: A multidisciplinary approach is foundational to the middle school program at NCCS, developing students into authentic, well-rounded Christian leaders. The instructional approach utilizes a balance between academics, athletics, fine arts and student life and combines a robust curriculum with challenging learning environments to achieve student mastery through knowing, understanding and doing. The cornerstone of the program is the dedicated faculty, the “living curriculum,” who purposefully invest in each student’s well-being. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Through the One-To-One Technology Initiative, each student in grades 5 through 8 is issued their own Chromebook, which allows students to become technologically literate as 21st century learners while also practicing digital stewardship and personal

responsibility. Many 7th and 8th graders participate in Duke TIP (Talent Identification Program), which offers above-level testing, recognition and ceremonies, enrichment, educational programs and college prep. Also, the Pathways Program is an innovative middle school program that involves a series of assessments, evaluations and personal reflections compiled by middle school students with the goal of helping students know themselves from the inside out. NCCS middle school students also can participate in 14 sports and more than 30 clubs.

Notre Dame Academy ndacademy.org Location: Duluth Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Notre Dame Academy approaches the middle school experience with love. The school believes that it is an honor to have a young person experience the fragility of that middle school age while knowing that their teachers, their principal and the people that they deal with everyday truly enjoy them. The vulnerability of a middle school student is truly looking for acceptance and being valued, and Notre Dame Academy offers an environment that enriches that child while also making him or her feel loved. The middle school experience strives to provide a safe haven where students that are in this vulnerable age are safe—emotionally, physically and socially. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Notre Dame Academy is Georgia’s only K-12 Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate school. The IB Middle Years Programme focuses on the development of inquisitive and internationally minded learners and encourages students to step outside of the classroom to apply the concepts in a way that challenges them to think about the effects in their local, national and global communities while maintaining a level of empathy and compassion to those around them. Courses range from the language arts and math to design, photography and language courses. In addition to a variety of clubs, sports and service learning opportunities, there are numerous field trips, including an 8th grade field trip to Rome, Italy.

The Walker School thewalkerschool.org Location: Marietta Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: The goal of the middle school is to provide developmentally appropriate opportunities for students to form identity and purpose. The connection to students and interpersonal relationships, a dedication to finding and developing the passions of students and an engaging and challenging curricula that channels the ideas of discovery and wonder are the foundation of the pillars of the middle school. Students are given space to try new things, make mistakes, solve problems, feel supported and be celebrated. With an average class size of 16 students, every child is known and every voice is valued. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Dynamic English and writing instruction, dedicated science labs, four world languages and five levels of math instruction are just the beginning. Unique courses range from a host of science, math and history courses to Digital Technology, Digital Media, Computer Science Principles, Engineering and Robotics. The school also offers single-gender math, daily 30-minute recess, state-of-the-art science and technology building and a comprehensive advisory program that includes a focus on executive functioning skills and leadership training. Extracurricular activities include athletics, fine and visual arts, an aerospace club, a debate team and more.

Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org Location: Peachtree Corners Grades: 5 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. Leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. The middle school is intentional in allowing students to begin taking responsibility for their own learning and actions while developing independence in a nurturing environment;

Confidence

By Building Character

During this time of uncertainty, we are even more committed to empowering students as they design a better world. Schedule a virtual visit or call today. mountvernonschool.org/admissions

Photo Taken Fall 2019

18 MON T H S – 8T H G R A DE

Springmont’s authentic Montessori experience balances academic learning with social/emotional well-being. Highly experienced and caring teachers guide individualized learning that inspires students to become creative, independent and globally-minded. EXTRAORDINARY BY DESIGN. Contact admission@springmont.com or call 404.252.3910 for more info or a virtual tour. ATLANTA’S F I R ST MONTE S SOR I SCHO OL

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 49

EDUCATION faculty begins the process by meeting students where they are and then pushing them to grow from there. The campus, courses and extracurricular opportunities are designed to help each child navigate their strengths, interests and passions in an encouraging and supportive setting during these formative years. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: In grades 5 through 7, Wesleyan offers gender-differentiated classes in math and English. Students benefit from an advanced math program at every grade level, and every student takes classes in Spanish, French and Latin in 5th and 6th grades before choosing a language to focus on in 7th and 8th grades. STEM offerings continue to expand each year, and a new Academic Resource Center assists students with learning differences in becoming independent learners while successfully meeting the demands of Wesleyan’s academic standard of excellence. Students may participate in a wide range of athletics, arts and service opportunities in middle school, and a mission trip is offered in 8th grade.

The Westminster Schools westminster.net Location: Atlanta Grades: 6 through 8 The Middle School Difference: The Westminster Middle School focuses on the development of the whole child through a rich and challenging curriculum that balances traditional

North Cobb Christian School 50 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

and innovative teaching methods. Cultivating creativity, enhancing skill development and supporting personal growth, teachers build study strategies as they incorporate technology, experiential learning and critical thinking skills into the daily curriculum. The goal is to prepare students for a seamless transition to the Upper School and for their lives beyond. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: In addition to all of the standard academic offerings, Westminster offers such unique classes as Journalism; Creative Writing; Economics for Entrepreneurs; Future City (a national challenge that has students answer the question “How can we make the world a better place?” and requires them to imagine, research, design and build cities of the future); Imagine, Design, Create: Explore the World of Coding; Architectural Design: Building for Community; Leadership 101; Serve ATL (a placebased service learning course that focuses on exposing students to Atlanta’s areas of greatest need and teaching skills to address those needs effectively); and Endangered Earth—We Can Meet the Challenge. Additionally, every middle school student chooses an arts elective in the visual or performing arts arena.

Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com Location: Smyrna Grades: 5 through 8 The Middle School Difference: Whitefield Academy engages in studying the latest information on brain-based learning specific to middle school students and strives to teach and encourage spiritual formation of students as they form new synapses that will last a lifetime. The school believes strongly in growth mindsets, restorative discipline and Christ-centered frameworks for decision making. The middle school experience is unique in that it integrates faith learning into all of the classrooms and focuses on metacognition, pushing students to “think about their thinking.” If students spend quality time reflecting on their decisions and academic passions, they naturally build strong executive functioning skills that grow their self-confidence.

Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Middle school students participate in a variety of academic opportunities, all integrating faith learning. Bible, foreign language, history, English, math, science and physical education classes are complemented by STEM lab and library opportunities. The school also offers first week retreats and orientations, bookend grade-level trips (for 5th and 8th grades), 8th grade academic coaching and the Middle School J-Term Experience, during which teams spend a week dedicated to community exploration of a subject and real-world learning application. Extracurricular activities include leadership options like student council, as well as clubs, arts and athletics.

Woodward Academy woodward.edu Location: College Park and Duluth Grades: 7 and 8 The Middle School Difference: Woodward believes that middle school should provide strong structure and high expectations, along with the opportunity for students to practice independence. Middle school should be a time to explore interests and allow students to have fun while they’re doing it. Students learn not only academics, but also how to be a student, how to learn their own strengths and challenges and how to apply that knowledge to their own education. Middle school students have a unique opportunity to have their own space but also be able to participate with upper school students and classes. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Woodward is one of the few independent schools that offers multiple academic levels and a completely personalized schedule. Within the school day, students have the opportunity to explore not only their core academics, but also performing and fine arts options such as band, orchestra, choir, dance and visual arts options like 3D printing, sculpture, photography, ceramics, drawing and painting, as well as options such as STEAM, engineering, robotics and film/ video. The school offers a multitude of club and athletic opportunities, including academic clubs, art clubs and fun clubs like Anime and chess.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

“Our classroom changed during quarantine. Our commitment to Education standards did not.”

iddle school inherently has its challenges. Of course, for students who have additional learning needs or require additional help or a non-traditional educational setting, those challenges can be even more pronounced. Fortunately, metro Atlanta is home to an array of schools that focus on everything from dyslexia and ADHD to hearing loss and executive function, allowing students to truly thrive during the formative middle school years.

The Cottage School cottageschool.org Location: Roswell Grades: 6 through 8 Area of Focus: Students who have mild to moderate learning difficulties and can benefit from a unique work-based model that simulates real-world experience The Middle School Difference: TCS approaches the middle school experience as a whole-child approach, striving to develop the student not only academically but also social-emotionally. The school wants the student to experience the things they love and take risks on the things they may not love or have never tried. Small class size and a unique approach to learning allows the student to find their strengths and capitalize on them. TCS notes that the middle school years are a challenge as students are going from kids to young adults; it provides an environment that allows the students to stumble, fall and learn how to get up so they can develop themselves into the people that want to become. A smaller environment lets students know everyone and take chances, and they can develop into young ladies and gentlemen without the fear of being ostracized if they do not fit into a mold. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: In addition to traditional core academics, TCS offers activities such as rock climbing, movie making, gardening, year-round sports, ukulele and many more.

• The largest class is 18 students & no more than 16 up through 5th grade • Superior Air Quality Control with Reme Halo UV Lighting • Real-time online schooling that works concurrently with on-campus education • Face shields provided to all students & staff Pre-K through 12th Grade • LyndonAcademy.org, 770-926-0166

FOR COLLEGE FOR LIFE FOR ETERNITY Holy Spirit Prep’s 21st-century classical approach combines the latest in academic excellence with authentic Catholic teachings that enrich students’ hearts, minds and souls.

COME SEE WHAT’S NEW! Schedule your Private Tour today. www.holyspiritprep.org

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 51

EDUCATION On the extracurricular side, the school features everything from soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, cheerleading and archery to drama, student council, diversity club, culinary arts and fashion design.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia cumberlandacademy.org Location: Atlanta Grades: 6 though 8 Area of Focus: Students with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADD, ADHD, high-functioning autism and other learning disabilities The Middle School Difference: Being a special needs school, Cumberland Academy embraces a whole-child educational approach and infuses social skills into the curriculum. The school focuses on individualized learning and preparing middle schoolers for high school and the next steps. Students enter the Creating Futures program as early as 8th grade to assist them in their journey to becoming independent adults and prepare them for college or a career. Middle school is traditionally more challenging for typical learners with new social pressures and selfdiscovery; Cumberland supports students with full-time counseling support and focuses on strengthening social and executive functioning skills. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: Cumberland is the first special needs school to receive a Google Apps for Education certification. Computer skills and learning how to navigate the Web become a necessity. All middle school students, both in-person and distance learners, use Chromebooks to access the Google Apps for Education suite daily. Students are also immersed in a social skills curriculum led by the counseling team; topics include self-awareness, resolving conflict, managing emotions and more. Students are offered traditional electives in the arts, including drama, PE, technology skills, coding and construction, and also have opportunities to participate in 52 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

a variety of clubs that range from Art Club to Girl Talk and in-house sports.

GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org Location: Marietta Grades: 6 through 8 Area of Focus: Shaping the dyslexic learner’s brilliance by meeting their needs with a unique teaching style The Middle School Difference: GRACEPOINT’s goal is for students to become independent and confident learners while being strong advocates for themselves. The school strives to help students move from seeing their dyslexia as a disability to seeing it as a gift that God uses to fulfill His purpose for their lives. Students thrive in a multi-sensory environment, where classes are small, allowing teachers to differentiate the needs of each student. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: At GRACEPOINT, morphology is intentionally integrated into all subjects. Morphological structure helps students with word meaning and improves their vocabulary, which leads to stronger reading comprehension. Finding patterns is a strength for many dyslexics; by teaching the patterns, facul-

Cumberland Academy of Georgia

ty can utilize this strength to remediate weakness in spelling. Orton-Gillingham-trained teachers address the needs of students with a low student-to-teacher ratio, incorporating multi-sensory and kinesthetic learning. On the extracurricular side, the middle school offers programs such as “Middle School Late Nite” several times per year; students enjoy fellowship, games, bible study and team building exercises while learning leadership skills.

Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org Location: Alpharetta Grades: Middle: 5 and 6; PreUpper: 7 and 8 Area of Focus: LD and ADHD students The Middle School Difference: In grades 5 and 6, MSA acknowledges and supports the students’ needs to begin exploring independence both academically and socially. In grades 7 and 8, students are supported in their exploration of understanding how he or she learns best. Both sections motivate and empower students to become self-advocates and independent learners. Middle addresses the unique needs of students through learning modifications tailored to each individual student; PreUpper students are invited to actively engage in their environment by starting a club with a teacher sponsor or proposing a trip linked to a program. Breaking the grades into two sections allows students in each section to create a sense of community as they enter into new experiences, and smaller class sizes and sections help prepare students for the greater independence they will experience in grades 9 through 12. Unique Academic and Extracurricular Offerings: In Middle, students begin to participate in competitive sports and delve deeper into the school’s fine arts program. In PreUpper, students are introduced to unique electives, including Coral Lab, Composition and Learning Lab. n

LUMPKIN PICKENS DAWSON Select Metro Atlanta Private Schools CHEROKEE

Gainesville

FORSYTH Canton

BARTOW

Cumming

Cartersville

HALL

17 Buford

15 Alpharetta 27

Woodstock Acworth 22 Kennesaw

9 12

Powder Springs

Sandy 21 Springs 10

GWINNETT

Duluth

316

Norcross Dunwoody Doraville 31

BARROW

Dacula Lawrenceville

8 28 Chamblee

Smyrna

Austell

Dallas

Roswell

34 Marietta

COBB PAULDING

400

JACKSON Suwanee

33 Mableton

29 32

24 14 11 Buckhead 4 5 6

Tucker

Lilburn

WALTON

Snellville

Stone Mountain

Loganville

DEKALB

Atlanta

Monroe

Decatur

Douglasville

Lithonia

DOUGLAS

ROCKDALE

East Point 35

Conyers

Hapeville

College Park Forest Park

FULTON

Morrow

Union City

OLL

Fairburn

CLAYTON COWETA

FAYETTE

Jonesboro

NEWTON

Stockbridge

HENRY

Fayetteville

McDonough

Peachtree City Newnan

1. The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy

13. High Meadows School

25. Riverside Military Academy

2. Annunciation Day School

14. Holy Spirit Preparatory School

26. Saint Francis School

3. Atlanta Academy

15. King’s Ridge Christian School

27. Saint Francis High School

4. Atlanta Girl’s School

16. The Lovett School

28. Springmont School

5. Atlanta International School

17. Lyndon Academy

29. Trinity School

6. Atlanta Speech School

18. Mill Springs Academy

30. The Walker School

7. Brandon Hall School

19. Mount Paran Christian School

31. Wesleyan School

8. Chastain School at St. Johns

20. Mount Pisgah Christian School

32. Westminster

9. The Cottage School

21. The Mount Vernon School

33. Whitefield Academy

10. Cumberland Academy of Georgia

22. North Cobb Christian School

34. The Wood Acres School

11. The Galloway School

23. Notre Dame Academy

35. Woodward Academy Main Campus

12. GRACEPOINT School

24. Pace Academy

36. Woodward Academy North Campus

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 53

EDUCATION

A Global Approach

The Center for Compassion, Integrity and Secular Ethics at Life University makes an impact By Life University

ife University, located northwest of downtown Atlanta, is known primarily for its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic program, which boasts the most chiropractic students on a single campus in the world. Others may be familiar with its top-ranked men’s and women’s rugby squads, which have won numerous national championships against much larger D1-A competition. Or perhaps, people are familiar with its annual holiday Lights of LIFE display that lights up the Marietta campus for more than a month from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. However, one of many 54 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

things you may not know about this small, private university is the significant global impact it is making through its Center for Compassion, Integrity and Secular Ethics (CCISE) and the initiatives that the center has implemented. Two of the most notable initiatives from the center include the Chillon Project and Compassionate Integrity Training.

Chillon Project The Chillon Project provides high-quality, credit-bearing degree programs to people in prison and formerly incarcerated people in Georgia. Life University

offers two degree programs through Chillon at Arrendale State Prison, a maximum-security women’s facility in Alto, Georgia. Currently, 17 students are earning their Associate of Arts in Positive Human Development and Social Change (A.A. in PHDSC) at Arrendale; eighteen have completed the A.A. in PHDSC

DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC MASTER’S DEGREES Clinical Nutrition Sport Health Science ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES Positive Psychology BACHELOR’S DEGREES Biology Biopsychology Business Administration Computer Information Management Culinary Nutrition Dietetics Exercise Science Health Coaching Human Ecology Interdisciplinary Studies Nutrition Psychology ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREES Biology Psychology Interdisciplinary Studies ASSOCIATE DEGREES Computer Information Management Health and Wellness Pre-D.C. Degree Pathway ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREES Health and Wellness Pre-D.C. Degree Pathway

EXPLORE

the possibilities at LIFE UNIVERSITY LIFE.edu | Apply.LIFE.edu | LIFE.edu/VisitLIFE | LIFE.edu/Admissions 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060 (800) 543-3202 | (770) 426-2600 #LifeUniversity #OurLifeU

EDUCATION

Compassionate Integrity Training (CIT) is a multi-part training program that cultivates basic human values as skills for the purpose of increasing individual, social and environmental flourishing. CIT is based on cuttingedge developments in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, traumainformed care, peace and conflict studies and contemplative science. and are now earning their Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Additionally, eight students who have been released from Arrendale are currently taking Life University classes online. Chillon also includes full scholarships for correctional staff and formerly incarcerated students who began Life University degrees while in prison. These scholarships enable students to complete a Life University undergraduate degree of their choice. The degree programs offered at Arrendale reflect Chillon’s aims to empower students to be compassionate leaders and agents of social change. Courses emphasize critical analysis of systems, an understanding of our interdependence and common humanity and the development of inner strengths such as resilience, compassion, emotional intelligence and ethical mindfulness. Thomas Fabisiak, PhD, director of the Chillon Project, says the program embodies Life University’s guiding principle of Lasting Purpose: “Give, Serve, Love and Do.” “No matter our circumstances, we all share a longing for a loving community, for chances to create and grow and for ways to give generously of ourselves,” Fabisiak says. “There are a lot of people in prison who are not just smart and talented, but who want to excel and give back to their communities, inside and outside of prison, and will gladly do so when offered the opportunity.” In October 2020, Life University began providing online classes to students at Arrendale because of the pandemic and thanks to technological and staff support from the Georgia Department of Corrections. The school plans to move back to an in-person model of instruction as soon as it is safe to do so.

Compassionate Integrity Training (CIT) Compassionate Integrity Training (CIT) is a multi-part training program that cultivates basic human values as skills for the 56 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

purpose of increasing individual, social and environmental flourishing. CIT is based on cutting-edge developments in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, trauma-informed care, peace and conflict studies and contemplative science. The development of CIT has been aided by the collaborative work of a team of experts with both academic and applied backgrounds in these fields. By covering a range of skills from self-regulation and self-compassion to compassion for others and engagement with complex systems, CIT focuses on and builds towards compassionate integrity— the ability to live one’s life in accordance with one’s values with a recognition of common humanity, our basic orientation to kindness and reciprocity. And although CIT deals with the development of pro-social values, including compassion and integrity, it is based on a secular approach to universal ethics based on common sense, common experience and science, rather than a particular culture or religion. The skills taught in CIT are useful to people of any or no religious background while not conflicting in any way with particular religious values. The CIT program has skyrocketed in popularity since its development, going from small-scale local groups taking its courses to now being all over the United States and the world through partnerships with groups such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s Mahatma Ghandi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (UNESCO MGIEP); Charter for Compassion; Karanga; and the City of San Antonio, among others. The partnerships cultivated have led to exciting endeavors that have turned CIT into one of the world’s foremost programs for social-emotional learning. On September 21, 2020, the U.N. International Day of Peace, nearly 4,000 people participated in Skill One of CIT’s Global Lesson in Social Emotional Learning, focusing on “Calming Body and

Mind.” It received overwhelmingly positive feedback worldwide. “Everyone can benefit from a calm body and mind,” one participant said. “Sometimes I feel like I let stress overcome my goals, and when I strive for better in rough times, I do better for my overall health and future.” In 2020, CIT set new records for enrollment and participation, with participants from more than 60 countries, according to Dr. Michael Karlin, LIFE Assistant Professor of Psychology and the Associate Director of CCISE. The world’s current state of affairs has brought many opportunities for CIT to expand its reach through virtual avenues, for which Karlin is grateful. CIT graduates now number in the thousands worldwide, and numerous translations of CIT are underway to continue reaching more people. “Naturally, CIT lends itself to being a very personal course with the ability to connect emotionally with the facilitators and fellow participants,” Karlin notes. “It’s been a joy to see that those connections can carry over through virtual interactions as well.” As one student in the new SelfDirected Learning version of the course (CIT-SDL) said, “I’m so glad that I enrolled in this course. Learning about self-compassion has been amazing. Often, I treat others with lot of love and care, but now I realize that I need it too. The videos by Mona and Maurice [CIT hosts] are so refreshing and thoughtful. I hope I could meet them someday. They are so warm, and I feel a connection with them. This skill has definitely helped me a lot by giving me strength to look for my happiness within me. [I am] feeling so calm and clear now.” n For more information, visit life.edu or compassion.life.edu.

HEALTHCARE

The Right Touch

Sensory machines calm and assist in therapy at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

By Ken Abramczyk

hen children with special needs or sensory processing issues face long hospitalizations and recoveries after surgeries, worry and anxiety can overwhelm parents. Their children may fear the new, unfamiliar surroundings of a hospital and the medical staff there, and the experience can be a challenge. However, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

has a unique way to help ease their minds and calm the children down. Sensory machines, featuring fiber optic lighted strands, a lighted bubble tube and a projector and stereo, assist therapists and parents in nurturing children through their recovery with interaction designed to engage the child’s senses of touch, smell, sight and sound. Both the

interaction and sensory play are critical in assisting children through their therapy and recovery, according to Amanda Roberts, childcare specialist in The Zone at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. Roberts hosts sensory playtime sessions every Wednesday in The Zone for the patients, most of them aged 2 to 5 years old, from the inpatient SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 57

HEALTHCARE rehabilitation unit. “These patients benefit the most because they are patients with the most significant physical injuries or brain injuries, and they are receiving significant therapy,” she says. The Zone gives patients “a break” from their hospital beds as they participate in activities involving art, games and video games. “During sensory playtime, we let the little ones take over The Zone. We set up some sensory art activities on smaller toddler tables with Play-Doh and finger painting. [And] we turn on the sensory machine in our Xbox room, so that room transforms into a space of relaxation,” Roberts continues. “Every child learns best when they engage with something. Critical brain Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Sensory Machine development helps build connections of nodes in the brain, which supports cognitive growth, mat or do the art activity by themselves fine and gross motor skills, language without the hand-over-hand help from development and problem solving skills. the therapist.” It helps them experience that important Therapists work directly with the social interaction. It transforms the children on the machine, and parents hospital environment into a fun place. It interact with them as well. The machine gives them a different view of the hospital features fiber optic lighted strands that and helps them meet those important are synced through an interactive switch therapy goals in a fun, personalized way.” with a soft-sided multi-colored cube. The patient can toss the cube, and when Technology Meets the Personal Touch it lands, the strands light up, matching The sensory playtime program began in the color of the top of the cube. The January 2017 when a childlife specialist weighted fiber optic strands go across the created developmentally appropriate patients’ lap, and therapists work with and therapeutic activities for young patients on their movement and even patients. Located on the lower level at verbalizing the colors they see. The cube Scottish Rite, The Zone was created can be synced with the fiber optics, the to provide space to allow for physical bubble tube or both simultaneously. therapists to work with patients, many of whom are recovering from brain or Impressive Results other injuries and often are hospitalized Sensory play on the machine is critical at the Children’s Scottish Rite location to patients’ recovery and development, for three to five weeks. Typically, they Roberts says. With the assistance of thervisit The Zone once a week. According apists, children work with the machines to Roberts, “When they arrive for their to ultimately get into wheelchairs, learn first visit, they may not be able to make to walk again or crawl around on the play eye contact with us and require more mats. Additionally, occupational therawork with their therapist to participate in pists, working on fine motor skills, explore activities. In a couple of weeks, they may different textures with the children, who be able to tell us their name, verbalize can press buttons and play music. Speech what activities they want to do and take pathologists say specific words or sounds more of a lead. They may be able to walk to develop speech. A recreational theraaround the sensory machine on the play pist may have socialization goals in mind, 58 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

helping the children relate to and communicate with other patients; in fact, the sensory machine assists in developing socialization and communication skills through the child’s senses. “As the projector shows different pictures, [the patients] can talk through what they see on the machine,” Roberts says. “The stereo plays music, so we can play a CD and they can sing.” A diffuser also emits smells of various scented oils for patients. Overall, she adds, “The sensory machines make things a little less scary and less intimidating for them, especially with this age range, which is important. And at the end of it, it’s awesome to see when [the patients] accomplish a lot by themselves. You can see the progression over time, and that’s pretty powerful.” Parents are touched by what Roberts calls the “overwhelmingly amazing” care patients receive from therapists on the rehab floor. “When they come to The Zone, they see that they are in a totally different environment away from the floor, and they have an escape,” she says. “Parents are so grateful for it and so appreciative.” Today, children are assisted with two sensory machines at the Scottish Rite location before, during or after procedures or medical routines, ranging from placing IVs to MRI scans, and they help them cope by changing the stimuli in the room to create a more relaxing environment. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston has three machines. “Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s mission is the make kids better today and healthier tomorrow, so these machines do such a great job going above and beyond that,” Roberts concludes. “We give specialized care to patients and families through these machines in different ways. We see their needs and use these machines as a tool to help reach their goals, to make them healthier and better to play. That’s what makes it special. These kids can relate and learn while they are in the hospital and be more comfortable.” n For more information, visit choa.org.

NEW ATLANTANS LIKE TO SAVE MONEY.

Set up new natural gas service with SCANA Energy and we’ll give you a housewarming present. Call 1-866-353-7835 to receive a $60 bill credit on your first bill with promo code MOVER60. Or visit us online at scanaenergy.com/MOVER60.

Limited time offer, available for new residential accounts only, subject to credit requirements. The offer is in the form of a one time $60 bill credit on the first bill. Offer not available in all locations. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Visit scanaenergy.com/mover60 for terms and conditions.

The Counties of Metro Atlanta

he Atlanta region is one of the most unique metropolitan areas in the country thanks in large part to the fact that it is comprised of so many flourishing counties. In fact, according to the Atlanta Regional Commission, by 2040, the 20-county Atlanta region will be home to more than eight million people. The Whitfield counties those individuals choose to call home are as distinctive Murray as the people themselves, as each one has its own personality and remarkable features. In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta will

Walker

introduce you to more than a dozen of the most sought-after and highly populated counties in today’s metro Atlanta area. You’ll learn everything from proximity to the city and basic facts toFannin the major cities and neighborhoods located within each county. Consider it your primer for getting to know Atlanta and Union the various communities that you’ll want to consider when you choose to relocate to the area. All of the information you need is right here at your fingertips.

Gilmer

White

Habersham

Lumpkin

Chattooga

Step

Gordon

Pickens Dawson

Lake Sydney Lanier

Banks

Floyd

Forsyth Bartow

Hall

Cherokee

CARTERSVILLE FLOWERY BRANCH

Allatoona Lake

WOODSTOCK

Fulton

BRASELTON JOHNS CREEK

SUWANEE

ROSWELL

KENNESAW

Polk

Cobb

DULUTH

SANDY SPRINGS DORAVILLE CHAMBLEE BROOKHAVEN

SMYRNA

Haralson

Barrow

Oconee

LILBURN

Atlanta

Walton

DeKalb Douglas Fulton

Carroll

EAST POINT

UNION CITY

G FOREST PARK

Clayton

Rockdale STOCKBRIDGE

Heard

Newton

PEACHTREE CITY

Jasper Spalding

60 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Morgan

Henry

Fayette Coweta

Clarke

Gwinnett

DUNWOODY NORCROSS

Paulding

Jackson

ALPHARETTA

Butts

Putnam

Getting Around Atlanta METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS

LOCAL TRANSIT

FLYING

Navigating the metro area via its numerous roadways can be a bit challenging. But it’s completely doable when you know which highways and interstates are which and where they go. Here are the fundamentals.

MARTA: Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority MARTA is the dominant public transportation system in metro Atlanta with about 500,000 riders every weekday. Buses run from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Friday and from 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. weekends and holidays. Times may vary on individual routes. The train operates from 4:45 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekdays and from 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. weekends and holidays. MARTA provides ADA-Compliant Paratransit Service to eligible persons with disabilities. Bus/rail fee is $2.50 one way including transfers. MARTA schedule & route information: (404) 848-5000 or itsmarta.com

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the city’s major gateway to the skies, though private air fields and county airports do exist. atl.com Location: Off I-85, 10 miles south of the city.

Interstate 75 I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta and traverses north into Tennessee and south into Florida. Interstate 85 I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector. It traverses east into South Carolina and west into Alabama. Interstate 20 I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta. It also traverses the state into South Carolina on the east and Alabama on the west. Interstate 285 Often referred to as “The Perimeter,” this interstate highway loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city. Georgia State Route 400 This former toll road known as GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta; it is concurrent with U.S. Route 19 from Exit 4 up through its ending point near Dahlonega in the North Georgia Mountains. Interstate 675 This 11-mile-long auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of the metro Atlanta area connecting Stockbridge on the south end to I-285 on the north end. Interstate 575 A 30-mile interstate highway spur route, I-575 branches off of I-75 in Kennesaw and traverses up through the northwestern suburbs and into the North Georgia Mountains.

Georgia Regional Transportation Authority The GRTA leads Georgia’s effort to set clear expectations for the performance of the state’s transportation network. (404) 463-3000, grta.org Corporate Transportation Casey Corporate Transportation is a specialist in corporate travel with 24-hour local, nationwide and airport service, corporate discounts and group rates. Wi-Fi equipped. (866) 688-5720

Parking DOMESTIC Park-Ride $3/hr; $10/day Economy: $3/hr; $14/day Daily: $3/hr; $19/day Hourly: $3/hr - 1st and 2nd hour $$4/hr - 3rd - 6th hour $36/day after 6 hours $36/day each additional day INTERNATIONAL Hourly: $3/hr - 1st and 2nd hour $4/hr -3rd - 6th hour $36/day after 6 hours $36/day each additional day PARK-RIDE: $3/hour $14/day maximum

Carpools Find a carpool, sponsored by the Atlanta Regional Commission, at ridefind.com or call 1-87-RIDEFIND. Public Routes Search online for public transportation, maps and directions at publicroutes.com Cobb Community Transit Bus service throughout Cobb County connects to MARTA via Midtown train stations and various MARTA bus stations. (770) 528-1600 cobbdot.org Gwinnett County Transit Monday through Saturday local bus service, plus Express Routes to Downtown Atlanta. (770) 822-8000, gctransit.com

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 61

BARTOW COUNTY CITIES OF BARTOW:

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us

Adairsville

Bartow

White

Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org

Kingston

Atlanta

Euharlee Taylorsville

Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles POPULATION 106,408 MEDIAN HOME PRICE $144,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE bartowga.org Bartow County features the best parts of big city life and small-town living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a business-friendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Shaw Industries Group, Inc. • Voestalpine Automotive Components • Toyo Tires • Cartersville Medical Center • Anheuser-Busch • Trinity Rail

ATTRACTIONS:

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Cartersville Emerson

Adairsville adairsvillega.net Recognized as one of the safest cities in Georgia, Adairsville was the first town in Georgia to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety. Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Offering access to an array of North Georgia’s natural wonders and a beautiful historic downtown, Cartersville blends the best of yesterday and today. Emerson cityofemerson.org This growing city is quickly becoming one of the nation’s hot spots for youth travel sports thanks to the LakePoint Sports Complex, which spans 1,300 acres. Euharlee euharlee.com Euharlee is a small town located just west of Cartersville and home to the Euharlee Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Georgia. Kingston cityofkingston.org Kingston is a city steeped in Antebellum history and keeps it alive through a variety of artifacts and photographs in two museums. Taylorsville Taylorsville is home to Plant Bowen, a coalfired power station that has the second largest generating capacity of any coal-fired power plant in North America. White cityofwhitega.com A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land—referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia.”

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com WATER City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Bartow County bartowga.org

Select provider

• Red Top Mountain State Park • Tellus Science Museum • Booth Western Art Museum • LakePoint Sports Complex • Barnsley Resort

Booth Western Art Museum 62 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Red Top Mountain State Park

Downtown Cartersville

CHEROKEE COUNTY CITIES OF CHEROKEE : Waleska

Cherokee

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org Ball Ground

Canton

Atlanta

Holly Springs Woodstock

Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles POPULATION: 254,149 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $220,200 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cherokeega.com Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Georgia Northeastern Railroad • Inalfa Roof Systems • Pilgrim’s Pride • Adidas • Yanmar America

ATTRACTIONS: • Lake Allatoona • Dixie Speedway • Gibbs Gardens • The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta • Cherokee Arts Center • Chukkar Farm Polo Club

Gibbs Gardens

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Reinhardt University reinhardt.edu

Ball Ground cityofballground.com Ball Ground is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that’s home to quaint shops, eateries and a mix of residential options. Canton canton-georgia.com The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm and progressive opportunity, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, arts center, heritage center and theater. Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us Recognized as one of the best places to raise a family in Georgia, Holly Springs is a beloved community that also was named the number three city for new families in the U.S. by Pennygeeks.com. Nelson nelsongeorgia.com Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson was established in 1891 and is the “First Georgia Marble City.” Waleska cityofwaleska.com Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska is a small community alive with industry, including the lumber and agriculture businesses. Woodstock woodstockga.gov Once a farming village, Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown, a worldclass trail system and excellent shopping and dining options.

UTILITIES:

EDUCATION:

City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us

Canton

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Windstream windstream.com ETC Communications etcnow.com Nelson-Ball Ground Telephone (770) 735-2000 ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Amicalola EMC amicalolaemc.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com City of Ball Ground Cityofballground.com City of Canton canton-georgia.com City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov Select provider

Woodstock SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 63

CLAYTON COUNTY • The Beach at Clayton County International Park • Atlanta State Farmers Market • Georgia Archives

CITIES OF CLAYTON: Atlanta

Forest Park Lake City Morrow Riverdale Jonesboro

Clayton Lovejoy

POPULATION: 289,615 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $89,400 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% ONLINE claytoncountyga.gov Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. It is the only county in the Atlanta area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Southern Regional Medical Center • FedEx Ground • Clayton State University • Gate Gourmet • Chime Solutions • Fresh Express

ATTRACTIONS: • Porsche Cars North American Experience Center • Road to Tara Museum • Clayton County Performing Arts Center

Lake City 64 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 Miles Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles

Riverdale riverdalega.gov Riverdale is located only about five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and serves more than 14,000 residents, deeming it the second largest city in the county.

Forest Park forestparkga.org Forest Park was originally founded by farming families with an influx of railroad employees, but today is home to more than 20,000 people and has become a viable center for commerce. Jonesboro jonesboroga.com The county seat of Clayton, Jonesboro is known as the official “home” of Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With the Wind” and maintains its historic atmosphere with stately homes and beautiful landscapes.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clayton State University clayton.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

Lake City lakecityga.net Lake City’s pride and joy is the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-squarefoot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings.

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET

Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” is growing rapidly but strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere that continues to attract residents and businesses.

Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H

Morrow cityofmorrow.com Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.

Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport

Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Central GA EMC cgemc.com WATER

Select provider

Porshe Experience Center

COBB COUNTY ATTRACTIONS:

Cobb

Atlanta

• Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta • Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park • Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History • Silver Comet Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

CITIES OF COBB: Acworth Kennesaw

Marietta

Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles POPULATION 756,865 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $219,700 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cobbcounty.org Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • WellStar Health System • Cobb County School District • Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company • The Home Depot • RaceTrac Petroleum • Aaron’s Inc. • Genuine Parts Company

Truist Park

Power Springs

Smyrna

Austell

Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org The town motto, “Small enough to know you, large enough to serve you,” speaks volumes about Powder Springs. Once a gold mining town, the city now boasts several parks, as well as a museum that chronicles its rich history. Smyrna smyrna.ga.us One of the fastest-growing cities in metro Atlanta, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB: Cumberland Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park. Mableton At more than 20 square miles, Mableton is the largest unincorporated community in the metro area, as well as the hometown of former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.

Acworth acworth.org Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water.

Vinings Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Austell austellga.gov Although it’s located just 18 miles from Downtown Atlanta, Austell’s revitalized downtown and population of just over 7,000 still give it a small-town feel.

EDUCATION:

Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to more than 5,000 companies and Kennesaw State University. Marietta mariettaga.gov Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, delectable eateries, numerous museums, green space and more.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org MJCCA Preschools atlantajcc.org Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org The Walker School thewalkerschool.org

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 65

COBB COUNTY Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org

UTILITIES:

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Chattahoochee Technical College chattahoocheetech.edu Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu Life University life.edu

Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com

Marietta

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Acworth Power acworth.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Marietta Power mariettaga.gov WATER Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org Marietta Water marietta.gov

Select provider

Vinings

We are alive with community spirit and a quality of life that is at once beau�ful, playful, fearless, unique and joyful. Smyrna has great courage, determina�on, ﬂexibility and adap�bility, ac�vely seeking the “sweetest nectar” for our residents and businesses. We believe that seemingly small ideas and concepts o�en possess the greatest poten�al and power. Get to know our surprising and cap�va�ng quality of life, our diverse neighborhoods, our rich community spirit, our beau�ful streetscapes, our robust services, and so much more. Seek the good in life and the beauty in each day in Smyrna.

66 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

DEKALB COUNTY • DeKalb Medical Center • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

ATTRACTIONS: Atlanta DeKalb

• Stone Mountain Park • Fernbank Museum • DeKalb Farmers Market • Callanwolde Fine Arts Center • Eddie’s Attic • Arabi Mountain

CITIES OF DEKALB: Dunwoody

Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta 7 Miles Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles POPULATION: 756,558 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $176,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE dekalbcountyga.gov Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle, hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular option for young professionals, students and established business executives. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Emory Healthcare • Delta Air Lines • UPS • AT&T Mobility

Fernbank Museum

Doraville Chamblee Brookhaven Tucker Clarkston Decatur

Stone Mountain

Pine Lake Avondale Estates

Chamblee chambleega.com Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with the Southeast’s only Chinatown and the Chamblee Motor Mile, a large antique district. Clarkston clarkstonga.gov Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, having been named “The Most Diverse Square Mile in America” by Time Magazine. Decatur decaturga.com Decatur Square is a hub for “indie” boutiques and galleries, as well as trendy restaurants and pubs that attract foodies for some of the best culinary experiences in metro Atlanta. Doraville doravillega.us With one of the largest concentrations of midcentury modern homes in metro Atlanta and located where interstates 285 and 85 meet, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters. Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov Dunwoody is a bona fine shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta, making it a

Lithonia

Stonecrest

Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org Known for its close-knit community, beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles, Avondale Estates has a large number of local businesses operated from homes and shops in the commercial district. Brookhaven brookhavenga.com The urban town center of Brookhaven on Dresden Drive features many mixed-use developments and is bordered by residential neighborhoods.

Decatur

Avondale Estates SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 67

DEKALB COUNTY popular travel destination for both business and leisure. Lithonia cityoflithoniaga.org Made up of less than one square mile, Lithonia includes some of the most affluent neighborhoods in DeKalb County. Pine Lake pinelakega.sophicity.com Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment. Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov Stonecrest is the first majority-black city to form from the cityhood movement in DeKalb County, achieving its official status in 2017. Stone Mountain stonemountaincity.org Nestled on the west side of Stone Mountain Park, the City of Stone Mountain is known as a family-friendly place to visit and live. Tucker tuckerga.gov One of the largest and oldest unincorporated communities in Georgia, Tucker welcomes visitors year-round to its revitalized Main Street for outdoor events, activities and more.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB: Candler Park candlerpark.org Candler Park is an area that hosts fancifully painted houses with yards, quirky shops and restaurants. Druid Hills Druid Hills is a beautiful urban neighborhood that is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb” and boasts four National Register of Historic Places districts. East Atlanta The charm of East Atlanta is its ability to be eclectic and edgy, while also comfortably suburban. Edgewood Edgewood’s unique housing, booming retail and entertainment sectors and diverse residents contribute to its vibrancy. Kirkwood historic-kirkwood.org Kirkwood is home to an array of quirky, locally owned shops, galleries, unique restaurants and more, as well as the Kirkwood Historic District.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS MJCCA Preschools atlantajcc.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu DeVry University devry.edu Emory University emory.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com WATER DeKalb County Water System dekalbcountyga.gov

Emory University

Stone Mountain Park 68 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Select provider

Concourse at Landmark Center , Dunwoody

DOUGLAS COUNTY Atlanta Douglas

ATTRACTIONS:

EDUCATION:

• Sweetwater Creek State Park • Clinton Nature Preserve • Boundary Waters Recreational Complex • O’Neal Plaza • Ben’s Antique Mall • L&R Alpaca Haven Farm

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Douglas County Schools dcssga.org

CITIES OF DOUGLAS: Lithia Springs Villa Rica

UTILITIES:

Douglasville

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com

Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles POPULATION: 145,331 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $140,100 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE celebrateddouglascounty.com With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • WellStar Douglas Hospital • Silver Line Building Products • APL Logistics • Wal-Mart • Kroger

Sweetwater Creek State Park

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Douglasville douglasvillega.gov Downtown Douglasville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its rich Victorian, Romanesque and Queen Anne-style buildings and has become a destination for specialty shops and restaurants. Lithia Springs The crown jewel of this charming unincorporated community is Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was burned during the Civil War. Villa Rica villarica.org Villa Rica is home to the first gold strike in the United States and an historic downtown that has maintained authentic architecture, including Wick’s Tavern, the oldest commercial structure in West Georgia.

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com WATER Douglasville-Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority ddcwsa.com

Select provider

Foxhall Resort SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 69

FAYETTE COUNTY • Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum • Line Creek Nature Area • The City Gardens of Southern Oaks • Georgia Renaissance Festival • Serenbe Farms

Atlanta

CITIES OF FAYETTE: Tyrone

Fayettville

Fayette

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fayette County Schools fcboe.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Peachtree City Woolsey

Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles POPULATION: 113,459 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $255,300 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE fayettecountyga.gov Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Panasonic Automotive Systems Co. • Eaton Lighting Solutions • Hoshizaki America Inc. • Osmose Utility Services Inc. • Ply Gem Industries Inc.–Window Division • Gerresheimer–Peachtree City LP

ATTRACTIONS:

Brooks

Brooks brooksga.com Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle and pastoral wide open spaces. Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov Fayetteville has been recognized as one of the best towns in Georgia for young families, according to NerdWallet.com, as well as one of the best suburbs for retirement, according to Forbes. Peachtree City peachtree-city.org Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths and family-friendly neighborhoods that are home to residents who enjoy a small-town feel near a global hub. Tyrone tyrone.org A high priority on finding a balance between smart economic development and functional green spaces in this small town of 7,000 people. Woolsey woolseyga.com The smallest town in Fayette County, Woolsey is primarily a residential community that offers a pastoral setting with quaint shops and small businesses.

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Coweta-Fayette EMC utility.org WATER Fayette County Water fayettecountyga.gov/water

Select provider

• Atlanta Regional Airport • Old Fayette County Courthouse

Pinewood Studios

Pinewood Forest 70 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Peachtree City

FORSYTH COUNTY Forsyth

Atlanta

ATTRACTIONS:

UTILITIES:

• Sawnee Mountain Preserve • Big Creek Greenway • Cumming Fairgrounds • Kinsey Family Farm • Cumming Aquatic Center and Water Park • Buford Dam

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

CITIES OF FORSYTH:

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Sawnee EMC sawnee.com

Cumming

Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta 38 Miles Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles POPULATION: 236,612 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $301,100 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE forsythco.com Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Scientific Games International Inc. • Northside Hospital-Forsyth • Tyson Foods, Inc. • Siemens Industry, Inc. • Koch Foods • Walmart

Cumming cityofcumming.net Cumming, the county seat of Forsyth, became one of metro Atlanta’s most popular commuter towns upon the completion of Georgia State Route 400 and continues to experience impressive growth year after year, welcoming both new residents and businesses regularly.

WATER City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com Forsyth County Water forsythco.com

Select provider

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

HALCYON

Big Creek Greenway

Cumming Fairgrounds SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 71

FULTON COUNTY • High Museum of Art • The Fox Theatre • Ponce City Market

CITIES OF FULTON: Atlanta Fulton

South Fulton

Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles POPULATION: 1.05 million MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $268,900 COMBINES SALES TAX RATE 8.9% ONLINE fultoncountyga.gov Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and much more.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Delta Air Lines • UPS • Emory Healthcare • The Home Depot • Piedmont Healthcare • Publix Super Markets

ATTRACTIONS: • Mercedes-Benz Stadium • The Georgia Aquarium • Atlanta Botanical Garden • Centennial Olympic Park • Zoo Atlanta • Piedmont Park

Mercedes-Benz Stadium 72 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Atlanta atlantaga.gov As the Peach State’s capitol and county seat of Fulton, Atlanta serves as the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations. Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us Named one of the best suburbs to live in Georgia by Niche.com, Alpharetta offers a full spectrum of attractions, excellent schools, sensible housing costs and growing industries. Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek’s beautiful landscape offers additional aesthetic appeal to an already beautiful metropolis. Milton cityofmiltonga.us A highly affluent city, Milton strives to maintain its rural heritage while looking to the future and offering residents an exceptional quality of life. Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Mountain Park is an officially designated wildlife refuge that protects all wildlife, including birds, animals and reptiles — some rare. Roswell roswellgov.com With 13 parks, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as the 14th safest city in Georgia, Roswell is a family-oriented community. Sandy Springs sandyspringsga.gov Located just outside of the 285 perimeter, Sandy Springs is the second largest city in the

Ponce City Market

metro Atlanta area and offers varied real estate options, competitive schools, outstanding outdoor recreation and more. South Fulton cityofsouthfulton.gov South Fulton elected its first mayor in March 2017 after the Georgia General Assembly voted in 2016 to approve the creation of this new city. Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community that is close to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport and makes it the ideal place to live, work and play. College Park collegeparkga.com Top employers in College Park include the Federal Aviation Administration and Woodward Academy, one of metro Atlanta’s top-performing independent schools. East Point eastpointcity.org In recent years, East Point has flourished due to its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, restaurants, hotels and shopping. Fairburn fairburn.com Fairburn has a rich cultural heritage enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and has the feel of a city coupled with small-town sensibilities. Hapeville hapeville.org Hapeville is home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as well as being the location for Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters. Palmetto cityofpalmetto.com Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta right on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad, which is now owned by CSX Transportation. Union City unioncityga.org Some of Union City’s leading national firms include Newell Rubbermaid, General Electric, Costco, Caterpillar, Dendreon and Kraft Foods.

INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS:

Ansley Park ansleypark.org An affluent residential neighborhood, Ansley Park sits astride Peachtree Street and is adjacent to the famous Piedmont Park. Atlantic Station atlanticstation.com With countless choices for apartments, condos, homes and Class A office space, as well as entertainment opportunities, Atlantic Station is one of the area’s most popular live-work-play developments.

College Football Hall of Fame

Buckhead buckhead.com Buckhead is rich with elegant high-rise hotels and complexes, beautiful homes and mansions and is one of the city’s most attractive areas for business. Cabbagetown cabbagetown.com Many murals and street art pieces, maintained by the Living Walls Street Art Association, keep Cabbagetown’s love of the arts alive. Castleberry Hill castleberryhill.org Known as Atlanta’s historic creative district, Castleberry Hill is made up of early 20th century warehouse buildings that have been converted into lofts. Downtown atlantadowntown.com Downtown Atlanta is home to many corporate and regional headquarters, government facilities, sporting venues and Georgia State University. Grant Park grantpark.org Grant Park’s Victorian neighborhood is home to Zoo Atlanta, which welcomes almost one million visitors each year. Inman Park inmanpark.org Known for its shops, public parks and dedicated Tree Watch, Inman Park comes alive with festivals, parades and a focus on all things local. Little Five Points littlefivepoints.net Little Five Points (L5P) is known at Atlanta’s hippest neighborhood and a popular alternative shopping and dining destination with consignment and costume shops, a local co-op and a diverse range of eateries. Midtown midtownatl.com Home to more than 200 acres of parks and gardens, as well as restaurants and shops, Midtown Atlanta is considered the city’s center for the arts. Old Fourth Ward Known as one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods and the home and resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Fourth Ward has become a bustling and diverse district since the opening of Ponce City Market. Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland.org Poncey-Highland is rich with urban living, quality restaurants, shops and galleries, great schools and a variety of housing options. Virginia-Highland virginiahighland.com This vibrant neighborhood is a popular spot for Atlanta’s young professionals and families

thanks to its seven distinct commercial villages full of upscale shops, restaurants and pubs, nightlife and local entertainment.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com Atlanta Girl’s School atlantagirlsschool.org

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clark Atlanta University cau.edu Emory University emory.edu Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu Georgia State University gsu.edu Morehouse College morehouse.edu Spelman College spelman.edu

Atlanta International School aisschool.org

UTILITIES:

Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

Brandon Hall School brandonhall.org The Cottage School cottageschool.org Cumberland Academy of Georgia cumberlandacademy.org The Galloway School gallowayschool.org High Meadows School highmeadows.org The Howard School howardschool.org King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org The Lovett School lovett.org MJCCA Preschools atlantajcc.org Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org Pace Academy paceacademy.org Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com Springmont springmont.com Trinity School trinityatl.org Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org

Midtown

Woodward Academy woodward.edu

Westminster Westminster.net

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company H georgiapower.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com City of College Park collegeparkga.com City of Fairburn fairburn.com City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com WATER Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com

Select provider

SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 73

GWINNETT COUNTY ATTRACTIONS:

Atlanta

Gwinnett

• Coolray Field • Infinite Energy Center • Lake Lanier • Southeastern Railway Museum • Freeman’s Mill Park • Château Élan Winery & Resort

CITIES OF GWINNETT: Buford Sugar Hill Braselton Suwanee

Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles POPULATION: 927, 781 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $185,200 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE gwinnettcounty.com Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett County is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities, a nationally recognized school system and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes away from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for area workers.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Gwinnett County Public Schools • Gwinnett County Government • Publix Super Markets • Gwinnett Health Care System • Walmart • Primerica Inc.

Suwanee 74 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Duluth Dacula Berkeley Lake Peachtree Corners Lawrenceville Norcross Lilburn

Grayson

Snellville Loganville

Berkeley Lake berkeley-lake.com In 2017, Berkley Lake was recognized among the Top 10 Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by Niche.com. Braselton braselton.net Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties, including Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. Buford cityofbuford.com A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium. Dacula daculaga.gov Dacula is best known for its large Memorial Day Parade and Little Mulberry Park and has experienced immense growth over the years. Duluth duluthga.net Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers,

top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life and was named the number six safest city in Georgia by the National Council for Home Safety and Security. Grayson cityofgrayspon.org Grayson is a popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and plenty of shopping. Lawrenceville lawerencevillega.org Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville’s mixture of recently established buildings co-exist with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Lilburn cityoflilburn.com Lilburn has a small-town, neighborly feel that sets it apart from other urban cities and was named the number one diverse place to live in Georgia by Niche.com Loganville loganville-ga.gov The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to open their doors and prosper in Loganville. Norcross norcrossga.net Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites to their full glory and boasts an array of businesses, restaurants and recreational venues that help the city remain dutifully progressive. Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents unparalleled quality of life. Snellville snellville.org Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation, including the highly anticipated annual Snellville Days Festival, which draws crowds from all over the Southeast and has been ranked as one of the top 20 tourism events by the Southeastern Tourism Society. Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com Considered one of the premier communities in metro Atlanta, Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains. Suwanee suwanee.com With an array of housing options, the largest school system in Georgia, stellar green spaces, and more, Suwanee is a great place to work, play and live.

Château Élan Winery & Resort

EDUCATION:

UTILITIES:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Gwinnett County Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Greater Atlanta Christian greateratlantachristian.org Killian Hill Christian School khcs.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Georgia Gwinnett College ggc.edu Gwinnett Technical College gwinnetttech.edu

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power H georgiapower.com Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com City of Buford

cityofbuford.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net WATER Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources gwinnettcounty.com City of Buford Water Department Cityofbuford.sophcity.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net City of Loganville Loganville-ga.gov

Select provider

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Chattahoochee River

Georgia Gwinnett College

Mall of Georgia SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 75

HALL COUNTY CITIES OF HALL:

for growth with a vision for the future known as “Oakwood 2030.” Clermont

Hall

Lula

Atlanta

Gainesville

Oakwood Flowery Branch Braselton

Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta 54 Miles Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles POPULATION: 202,148 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $171,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE hallcounty.org Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Northeast Georgia Medical Center • Hall County School System • Fieldale Farms Corporation • Kubota Manufacturing of America • Victory Processing LLC

ATTRACTIONS: • Château Élan Winery & Resort • Road Atlanta • Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort • Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville • Buford Corn Maze • Northeast Georgia History Center

Lake Lanier 76 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

Braselton braselton.net Braselton spans four counties, including Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson, and is home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, which attracts more than half a million visitors each year. Buford cityofbuford.com Home to more than 12,000 residents, Buford sits on the Hall-Gwinnett line with residents, employees and students from both counties. Buford is situated at the southern tip of Lake Lanier at Buford Dam. Clermont clermontga.com The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three square miles and is known for its many festivals that are held throughout the year. Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town. Gainesville gainesville.org As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region with a daytime population of more than 150,000 commuters. Gillsville gillsvillega.com Gillsville is known for its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop that began operating in 1850 as a family venture and is celebrated during an annual festival. Lula cityoflula.com Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, and once a railroad hub, it is well known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival. Oakwood cityofoakwood.net With more than 60 percent growth in the last 15 years, Oakwood city leaders are planning

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Hall County Schools hallco.org Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS Riverside Military Academy riversidemilitary.com To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Brenau University breneau.edu Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Gainesville Water Dept. gainesville.org Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org

Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville

Select provider

Atlanta Falcons Training Facility

HENRY COUNTY • Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum • Southern Belle Farm

CITIES OF HENRY:

Strong Rock Christian School strongrockchristianschool.com To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

UTILITIES:

Atlanta Stockbridge

McDonough

Henry

Hampton Locust Grove

Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 230,220 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $154,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE co.henry.ga.us With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing counties in Georgia.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Piedmont Henry Hospital • Federal Aviation Administration • Henry County Schools • Luxottica Retail Group • Briggs & Stratton • PVH Corp

Hampton hamptonga.gov Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county, and races draw more visitors than any other sporting event in Georgia. Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov Located within 35 miles of Downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers a growing selection of retail, dining, lodging and business opportunities. McDonough mcdonoughga.org Attractions in this Civil War-era town include Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking. Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge offers excellent economic opportunities and public services coupled with small town hospitality.

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com WATER Henry County Water Authority Hcwa.com City of Hampton hamptonga.gov City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov City of McDonough mcdonoughga.org City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com

Select provider

EDUCATION:

ATTRACTIONS:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us

• Atlanta Motor Speedway • Panola Mountain State Park • Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary • Cubihatcha Outdoor Center

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Eagles Landing Christian Academy elaonline.org

Eagles Landing Country Club

Atlanta Motor Speedway

Panola State Park SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 77

PAULDING COUNTY • The Dallas Theater • High Shoals Falls • Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center

CITIES OF PAULDING: Paulding

Braswell Dallas Hiram

Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles POPULATION: 164,044 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $150,400 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE paulding.gov Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • WellStar Paulding Hospital • Publix Super Markets • The Kroger Company • Interroll MDR Conveyers • Walmart

ATTRACTIONS: • Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport • Silver Comet Trail • Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site

Silver Comet Trail 78 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com

Atlanta

Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta 33 Miles

UTILITIES:

Braswell With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail. Dallas dallasga.gov Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, as well as its reputation for being a great place to raise a family and start a business. Hiram cityofhiramga.gov Hiram was established in 1891 as a rural railroad town but has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers dining, shopping and entertainment.

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company Georgiapower.com H Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com WATER Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities

Select provider

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Hiram

WellStar Paulding Hospital

ROCKDALE COUNTY Atlanta

ATTRACTIONS:

UTILITIES:

• Panola Mountain State Park • Monastery of the Holy Spirit • Georgia International Horse Park • Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area • Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden • The Dinky

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

CITIES OF ROCKDALE:

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com

Rockdale

Conyers

Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Pratt Industries • Acuity Brands Lighting • Hill-Phoenix • Golden State Foods • Rockdale Medical Center

WATER Rockdale Water Resources Rockdalecountyga.gov

Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 90,594 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $148,600 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com

Select provider

Conyers conyersga.com Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, and the community reflects an amazing legacy of progress, involvement and society.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 73 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Costly Mill Park

South Rockdale Community Park

Georgia Int’l Horse Park SPRING 2021 KNOWAtlanta 79

Advertiser Index Contact our advertisers for helpful information about your move. NEW HOMES & CONDOS David Weekley Homes Davidson Homes

9 BC

Engel & Völkers Atlanta

Lennar Atlanta

Paran Homes Patrick Malloy Communities The Providence Group

Before you make a move … Visit the hottest address in town

IFC 2 IBC

The River Club

Rocklyn Homes

Thrive Residential, A Toll Brothers Company

Traditions of Braselton

INTERIM HOUSING TP Corporate Lodging

55+ LIVING CHOICES Lake Arrowhead

Traton Homes

EDUCATION Atlanta International School

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Life University

Lyndon Academy

The Mount Vernon School

Springmont School

Wesleyan School

UTILITIES GA Natural Gas SCANA Energy

23 27, 59

knowatlanta.com

For more than 30 years, KNOWAtlanta has been the premier source of information for those who are calling Atlanta home. With updated information on the cities and counties of the metro area and profiles on topics spanning education, health care, economics and housing, KNOWAtlanta’s point is clear: to keep you in the KNOW.

AREA INFORMATION Braselton Visitors Bureau

City of Smyrna

@knowatlanta

80 KNOWAtlanta SPRING 2021

knowatlanta

Our Neighborhoods

Decorated Model Homes Open Daily Cherokee

Canton/Hickory Flat IDLYWILDE Single Family • From the Low $400s-$500s

Woodstock MASON MAIN Townhomes • From the High $300s

Cobb PRUITT WALK Townhomes • From the $400s

Dekalb Decatur

TOWNS AT NORTH DECATUR Townhomes • From the $400s

curated design options and a seamless experience from first look to move-in. With intelligently-crafted townhomes and single family home designs, high life, low maintenance communities, there is something for every lifestyle. Our Community Sales Managers are available to assist you with your new home search. Please visit TheProvidenceGroup.com to find your new Providence Group home.

THE MAXWELL Condos • From the High $300s Townhomes • From the High $500s

Atlanta PRATT STACKS Condos • From the Low $400s THE VIEWS ON PONCE Townhomes • From the $800s

Smyrna

The Providence Group builds neighborhoods with

ECCO PARK Townhomes • From the $400s COMING SPRING!

Johns Creek BELLMOORE PARK Single Family • From the $500s - $800s

Gwinnett Duluth

Clarkston

GREYSOLON Townhomes • From the Mid $300s

GLENDALE ROWES Townhomes • From the Mid $300s

Suwanee

Forsyth Alpharetta

ELLINGTON Townhomes • From the High $300s Single Family • From the Mid $400s

CENTRAL PARK AT DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP Single Family • From the $500s

HARVEST PARK Townhomes • From the High $300s Single Family • From the High $400s

Fulton

SUWANEE TOWNESHIP Townhomes • From the Mid $300s

Alpharetta ATLEY Condos • From the $400s Townhomes • From the High $500s

Peachtree Corners WATERSIDE Master-Planned Community COMING SOON!

678.472.0411

TheProvidenceGroup.com

Spring 2021

1,600-6,000 Sq ft | High $200s to $1 M+

KNOWAtlanta Spring 2021- Metro Atlanta Relocation Magazine

Articles inside

More Than a Century of Big Business

Private School Map

Meet Me in the Middle

Your Gateway to the World

Where Business is Big