Customers paying their taxes at the Memorial Dr. tax office will use the UGA Extension entrance located at the front of the building from Nov. 4 – 15, (weekdays).
EXTENDED HOURS: Nov. 12 – 15 from 8 AM until 6 PM. Clarimont Rd. and South DeKalb Mall until 4:30 PM. Closed Nov. 11 for Veterans Day.
Know before you go:
Second installment is due Nov 15 The first installment was due Sept 30 Bills for City of Atlanta properties DeKalb are due Nov 15
Bring your tax bill stub and a valid Georgia ID or Georgia driver’s license.
Acceptable payment methods include credit/debit card, check or money order. Processing fees apply for credit/debit card payments.
Parking is available near the UGA Extension Service lot facing Memorial Drive Disabled customers may use the Property Tax entrance off Northern Ave. Security screening is required for service
Payment methods:
ONLINE: Visit publicaccess dekalbtax org Credit/debit card payments are accepted; processing fees apply There is no service fee for paying by e-Check.
PAY-BY-PHONE: Call 770-336-7500, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM. Payment does not apply to prior year, delinquent payments. Credit/debit card payments are accepted; processing fees apply.
DROP BOX: 24-hour drop box available at all three office locations Payment must be placed in the box by the due date; cash not accepted IN PERSON: Central Office at 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA 30032; North Office at 3653 Clairmont Road, Chamblee, GA 30341; South DeKalb Mall at 2801 Candler Road, Suite 66, Decatur, GA 30034.
MAIL: Must be postmarked by the USPS by the due date to avoid late fees; metered or kiosk postage dates are not accepted as proof of timely payment. Please consider alternative payment methods due to ongoing mail delivery issues.
Payments made in the office, by phone or online are posted same day; checks, including e-checks, are posted in 5 business days. Before cancelling a payment, please contact the office with payment concerns to avoid NSF and/or late fees
To check your bill online or for more information, visit the Tax Commissioner's Office website: Follow us! @DeKalbTaxGA
404-298-4000 | proptax@dekalbcountyga.gov
SANDY SPRINGS
Atlanta International School to open Sandy Springs Upper Campus in 2025
By Bob Pepalis
Atlanta International School began accepting applications for its Sandy Springs Upper Campus for 2025 at the former Brandon School property.
High school students in grades 9-12 can enter the International Baccalaureate curriculum, including the middle years program for grades 9-10, and diploma and career-related programs for grades 11-12, according to an Atlanta International School (AIS) news release.
The school will offer STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), with real-world projects and STEAM diploma endorsement.
AIS represents more than 90 nationalities and offers more than 40 languages, including Arabic, French, German, Hindi, Korean, Chinese, and Spanish.
An AIS spokesperson told Rough Draft that numerous upgrades to the campus are being made. The dining facilities are being completely refitted, dormitories are being updated, and a new internet network will be installed throughout the 25-acre campus.
The campus also has brand-new sports facilities, including the first Mouratoglou Tennis Academy in Georgia. Patrick Mouratoglou famously coached tennis star Serena Williams.
Athletics will include soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis through the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy. Theater, music, visual arts, and international festivals will be part of campus life.
The opening of the Sandy Springs Upper School campus will increase the number of AIS students of 1,345 by an additional 70 boarding students and approximately 120 day students.
Residents debate plan to improve Mt. Vernon-Long Island Drive intersection
By Bob Pepalis
Sandy Springs residents were happy to hear that the Mount Vernon HighwayLong Island Drive intersection would get improvements, but nearby residents worry a traffic light will cause delays.
The city held an open house at city hall on Oct. 17 on the intersection improvements. Sandy Springs staff and employees of the city’s design engineer, Kimley Horn, explained the project to residents.
The city plans to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Mount Vernon Highway
and Long Island Drive, which also includes the Arlington Cemetery driveway. Long Island Drive has heavy queueing and long delays at the existing stop sign at Mount Vernon Highway. Residents said drivers attempting to turn right from Long Island Drive to Mount Vernon Highway have their sight obstructed by vehicles turning left as drivers in the left lane creep ahead.
The project includes installing a traffic signal at the intersection, realigning the Arlington Cemetery driveway, installing new sidewalks, widening the roadway, and upgrading signage and striping.
Courtesy Atlanta International School
Robert Burkholder attended the open house with his wife, Judy. He said they live in Long Island Walk, the first subdivision on the left on Long Island Drive.
Burkholder said as residents walk across Long Island Drive, they will cross short of the intersection. He said they have to hustle to avoid traffic turning left onto the road from Mount Vernon Highway.
He said improvements for pedestrians would be enough to justify the project, but Burkholder said there were also problems with sight lines and the high traffic volume.
Margo Parr is a resident of Rivershore Estates which shares a property line with the cemetery and is on Mount Vernon Highway. Parr said she understood the need for the traffic lights, but her concern was how long the lights would stay red. She said Mount Vernon Highway is the main artery
to reach I-285.
“We don’t want to add more congestion or issues for that main artery,” Parr said.
She said nobody wants to sit at a red light when there’s no traffic on Long Island Drive.
Kimley Horn staff said the timing of the lights and automation should mean any waits will be brief.
Councilmember Andy Baumann said he regularly drives this corridor and makes turns onto and off Long Island Drive. He said plans for the intersection are vast improvements over the original intersection.
The city’s handout on the project said the final design will be completed in winter 2024. A call for bids and the bid award are expected in spring 2025, with construction starting in summer 2025. Construction is estimated to take 10 months.
Comments are sought on the project and can be emailed to communications@ sandyspringsga.gov. They can be mailed to City of Sandy Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Public Works Department, Sandy Springs, GA 30328.
Project information can be found at sandyspringsga.gov/MVHLongIsland.
Long Island Walk residents Judy and Robert Burkholder hear an explanation of lane and sight line improvements at the intersection from Kimley Horn’s Matt Dysko. (Photo by Bob Pepalis)
30-acre property to be preserved for new park
By Collin Kelley
A 30-acre piece of property in Buckhead formerly owned by noted photographer and philanthropist Lucinda Bunnen will be transformed into a new City of Atlanta park.
The Conservation Fund (TCF) purchased the property for $13.5 million in October. According to Urbanize Atlanta,
the deal is the highest residential land sale in Atlanta in 2024 and the largest park addition TCF has made for Buckhead in more than two decades.
Larger than downtown’s Centennial Olympic Park and Woodruff Park combined, the property at 3910 Randall Mill Road lies just east of Interstate 75 and south of I-285.
Bonneau Ansley of Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International, who represented the Bunnen family in the sale, told Urbanize Atlanta the deal was “historic,” noting “there hasn’t been anything like this available in decades, and it’s not likely we’ll ever see this much land available [again] in this area.”
Whether your child loves to skip and twirl, enjoys ballet technique at the barre, or is pursuing a professional career, our experienced instructors will be with them every step of the way. In our highly nurturing, noncompetitive environment, everyone is respected, dreams are encouraged, and achievements at all levels are celebrated.
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According to TCF, an additional $3.4 million in funding will be needed to create a permanent nature preserve. The organization is planning to work with city officials and other partners to get the funds.
Bunnen, who helped build the High Museum of Art photo collection and co-founded what is now the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, died in 2022 at age 92. Her Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home on the Buckhead property was included in the sale, but what it will be used for is unknown.
Bunnen’s own photography – including famed Atlantans like Coretta Scott King and Ted Turner, street scenes, and nature – was collected in numerous books and frequently exhibited over the decades.
Initiative to ensure local businesses, residents benefit from events
By Dyana Bagby
Mayor Andre Dickens announced in October the creation of Showcase Atlanta, an initiative that aims to ensure residents and local businesses are able to participate and benefit from large-scale events.
Atlanta is known for hosting major conventions, conferences, festivals, political rallies and sporting events. Last week, the NFL announced Atlanta will host the Super Bowl LXII in 2028 at Mercedes-Benz
Stadium.
The Super Bowl announcement is one of numerous major sporting events coming to the city over the next few years including the College Football Playoff National Championship and MLB All-Star Game in 2025, FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2031.
“Since the $5 billion economic success of the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, the metro area has captured an estimated additional $9.18 billion from major events
Lucinda Bunnen’s Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home in Buckhead. (Courtesy Ansley Real Estate/Christie’s International Real Estate)
An outline of the 30-acre property in Buckhead. (Courtesy Ansley Real Estate/Christie’s International Real Estate via Urbanize Atlanta)
Courtesy LucindaBunnen.com
Photo by Kim Kenney
and is expecting over $500 million in impact from the 2026 FIFA World Cup alone,” according to the Showcase Atlanta website.
“The primary goal of Showcase Atlanta is to provide our residents, small businesses and visitors with exceptional experiences during major events hosted in our city. As more large sports and entertainment events continue to choose Atlanta, we want our community to participate fully and equitably, and this initiative is a unique opportunity to drive generational progress for our communities across the city,” Dickens said in a news release.
businesses.
Dickens selected Arthur Blank, philanthropist and owner of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, and UPS CEO Carol Tomé to serve with him as co-chairs of the Showcase Atlanta committee. The committee will advise the mayor on city-led plans for these events and ensure that the local community is engaged and directly benefits, according to the news release. Additional committee members, including local business and civic leaders, will be added over time, according to the news release.
“We are an international city with a rich history, vibrant culture and thriving entertainment industry and Showcase Atlanta will highlight everything our city has to offer,” Tomé said in the release.
The initiative’s plan includes establishing a process for businesses to directly engage with large-scale events and to implement policies that encourage event organizers to source services and products from local
So
The plan also calls for community and neighborhood engagement as plans for major events are planned and implemented. This includes prioritizing opportunities for nonprofit collaboration and maintaining open communication with residents and local business owners to ensure they all can benefit from the influx of people attending the large-scale events.
Norelie García, board chair of the Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA), has been named executive director of Showcase Atlanta. With over 20 years of experience leading private-public partnerships, business management and large-scale global initiatives, García will spearhead efforts to ensure the success of Showcase Atlanta.
“Through the leadership and vision of the mayor and other public and private leaders, we are going to showcase Atlanta to the rest of the world, while ensuring major events are done with and for the benefit of all our residents,” García said in the news release.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium (File)
Delayed park projects expected to finish by December
By Logan C. Ritchie
Improvement projects at two Brookhaven parks are months overdue because of “significant unforeseen conditions that impacted the contractors’ schedules,” according to a city spokesperson.
Briarwood Park and Brookhaven Park renovations, which will total more than $14 million, are now expected to finish by December.
“Mass rock removal for the underground detention system at Briarwood Park, and the unsatisfactory soil encountered at Brookhaven Park during installation of the storm and sanitary sewer systems caused delayed schedules,” said
Burke Brennan, Brookhaven director of communications.
Access to both parks has been limited during renovations, but Brookhaven parks volunteer Steve Peters said it’s better for residents to have some access rather than none.
“People need the parks for so many different things: the conservation series, afterschool programs, basketball leagues, swim team. There’s so much the local community relies on,” Peters said.
Briarwood Park has been undergoing a $7 million plan to add walking trails, a community garden, a trail bridge, tennis court and parking lot lighting, and stormwater solutions.
Delays continued throughout the
summer, as updates on Brookhaven’s website anticipated a grand re-opening event was anticipated in May, the pool and recreation center opening in early June, and the community garden and loop trail opening in July.
The community garden was continually delayed. Unusable for years, the expanded garden has missed another planting season according to Briarwood Park Conservancy volunteer Terrell Carstens.
At the June 26 meeting, the city approved spending $161,000 for mass rock removal at Briarwood Park which Mayor John Park explained would help with runoff.
“Our outlook is that we comply with the same standards that we give to our developers. Of course, that can also add to the cost,” Park said.
In October, the city’s website stated that “the contractor at Briarwood Park is scheduled to return to complete the garden fence and gates and complete final site cleanup in the next few weeks,” anticipating a ribbon-cutting “to be scheduled to celebrate the completion of the garden and the new trail and bridge.”
But a ribbon cutting is not scheduled at this time, said Brennan.
The city said work has been temporarily halted at Briarwood Park because the recreation center is an early voting location.
“The contractor will return
immediately after Election Day to complete the garden and final clean-up. This should now be complete in late November,” Brennan said.
In Brookhaven Park, final coordination with utilities including DeKalb Watershed and Georgia Power is ongoing. Lose and Associates is pushing to complete Brookhaven Park in time for a seasonal ice skating rink to open on Dec. 7.
Brookhaven Park, an 11-acre green space, has been undergoing minor renovations since April 2022 after City Council members approved a settlement and intergovernmental agreement with DeKalb County.
Major renovations at Brookhaven Park started in July 2023. The $8.8 million improvements includes three pavilions, a dog park and dog splash pad, an expanded playground with restrooms, a walking path, stage, and lighted parking lot. The stormwater system has been modified, and a community garden is thriving.
The $40 million park bond is still on budget because other projects came in less expensive than expected, Brennan said.
Brookhaven Park will be a winter wonderland with themed movies, music, food trucks, and more in December, the Public Works department announced at the Oct. 22 City Council meeting. The activity may disrupt groups who use the park for pick-up games of volleyball and frisbee.
Brookhaven Park construction in October 2024. (Photo by Logan C. Ritchie)
Courtesy City of Brookhaven
City Hall reaches milestone with mass timber installation
By Logan C. Ritchie
The last piece of mass timber has been put into place at Brookhaven City Hall, the $78 million building that will house city council chambers, Explore Brookhaven, offices for the mayor and council members, event space, and a coffee shop.
Located adjacent to the BrookhavenOglethorpe MARTA station, the building is being constructed from mass timber, masonry, steel, glass, and metal panels. A colored glass dome will top the building before it is complete in summer 2025.
“It’s the most visible, most highprofile project in BH,” said City Manager Christian Sigman.
any lost time due to injury.”
“That’s a testament to the entire team: subcontractors, construction management, and the city’s program management company,” Sigman said.
The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are in the works, and the fire sprinkler system has been installed.
Soon the large crane onsite will be removed, and the dome will be installed in December or January. The roof top stands 60 feet above Peachtree Street. The dome will add 45 feet to the height on that side of the building.
Construction has forced traffic back ups at Peachtree Road and North Druid Hills Road, but lanes are expected to be reopened in January or February. Prior to that, the city plans to sandblast adjacent concrete walls in preparation for public art, which is now being selected by the Art Commission.
Brookhaven Mayor John Park and city council members attended a topping off ceremony this month with 200 workers to celebrate one year of construction “without
Several departments are being moved to the former public safety building at 2665 Buford Highway when it is completed this year. Public works, economic development, community development, planning and zoning, permitting, inspections, and code enforcement will be housed at the Permitting, Planning and Engineering Building “to help the development community efficiently get through our processes,” Sigman said.
Thursday, December 5th, 6-8:30pm
www.townbrookhaven.net
Conveniently located on Peachtree Road adjacent to Oglethorpe University.
Brookhaven officials attended the topping out ceremony for the new Brookhaven City Hall on Oct. 4. (Courtesy City of Brookhaven)
Brookhaven City Council member Madeleine Simmons and former council member Linley Jones sign the final piece of mass timber. (Photo courtesy City of Brookhaven)
DUNWOODY Planning commission defers shopping center rezoning
By Cathy Cobbs
The Dunwoody Planning Commission at its Oct. 8 meeting deferred a decision on rezoning a controversial shopping center after citizens expressed concerns about the number of available uses in the new category.
Owner Branch Properties wants to change the Mount Vernon Shopping Center’s zoning designation from Neighborhood Shopping to C-1 to allow for a greater diversity of uses. Located at the corner of Jett Ferry and Mt. Vernon Road, the shopping center’s current
tenants include a CVS Pharmacy, a consignment store, and several personal care salons.
The specific focus of the rezoning effort is an empty 35,000-square-foot space that has seen a revolving door of failed grocery store tenants over the years.
Laurel David of the Galloway Law Group, representing the owners, said Branch has received the most interest from “eater-tainment” establishments, ones that combine a sporting element like pickleball with food and drink options.
The developers likened the concept to The Painted Pickle near the Beltline which
offers a variety of indoor and outdoor games along with a full bar and restaurant.
Shopping does not allow for an entertainment venue, while the C-1 designation does.
The planning commission heard from four speakers living near the property who expressed cautious support for the rezoning effort, and at least eight who said they were concerned with the broader scope of uses that the C-1 zoning could bring to the center.
can’t move forward until the property is rezoned.
Several speakers expressed concerns about the potential for noise in the surrounding neighborhoods, saying that they prefer having a venue that closes down at sunset or 9 p.m. at the latest.
After hearing from residents and discussions among members, the board voted unanimously to defer the rezoning request to its Nov. 19 meeting. It also asked that Branch meet with city staff to discuss further narrowing the number of acceptable uses for the center.
The C-1 designation has a variety of uses, but Branch representatives said they have eliminated at least a dozen of possibilities that would have been allowed with that zoning, including a homeless shelter, transitional housing, recording studio, lodging, funeral home, car wash, gas station and a taxi stand.
Several speakers in opposition said they were not provided details on the rezoning plan, which has been posted on Dunwoody’s Planning Commission website for days.
Others said they wanted more details on the specific hours of operation if a pickleball venue moved in, whether or not the new tenants would be seeking a liquor license, and if the center’s existing parking would be ample enough to handle the demand.
However, David said since a specific tenant has not been located, those details are not available. However, she did indicate that a venue of this type would probably apply for a liquor license.
Branch President Jesse Shannon said the company has garnered interest from “a half-dozen” pickleball companies interested in the space, but formal negotiations
Dunwoody Planning and Zoning Manager Paul Leonhardt clarified to the commission that the rezoning applies to the whole center, not just the vacant space, and cautioned that a large number of restrictions may hamper efforts to find viable tenants.
A July 31 community meeting about rezoning the property turned into a series of accusations between residents and tenants in the center and its owner.
Telesca said the possibility of putting in yet another grocery store has been shut down by all of the companies they have approached, a sentiment echoed at the Oct. 8 meeting by Branch President Jessie Shannon.
“There have been three grocery stores in the shopping center and all of them failed,” Shannon said. “What used to work in neighborhood shopping centers in the past don’t work today.”
If the measure passes the board in November, it would likely come before the Dunwoody City Council meeting at its Dec. 9.
Attorney Laurel David, representing the owner, shows an example of what a pickleball entertainment facility might resemble. (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
City passes $70 million ‘no-frills’ budget for 2025
By Cathy Cobbs
The Dunwoody City Council unanimously passed a proposed $70 million “no-frills” budget for 2025 that reflects a 5.29% increase over 2024.
According to reports presented at the Oct. 15 and Oct. 28 meetings by Richard Platto, the city’s finance director, Dunwoody remains in a strong financial position as it heads into fiscal year 2025.
“Staff approached developing the 2025 budget with two guiding parameters – to minimize the use of fund balance within the general fund and to keep the projected end-of-the-year general fund balance [reserve] over six months,” the report said.
Platto said the last three year’s estimates indicated that the city would have to dip into the general fund to balance the budget, but because revenues exceeded projections and expenditures were lower than expected, it wasn’t necessary.
However, the 2025 budget, with revenues growing at about 2.4% and expenditures projected to be 6.7%, may force the city to dip into reserves, Platto said. The city would still have a healthy reserve balance of more than six months, even if the funds were needed to balance the budget.
In addition, he said, there are noncity revenues totaling about $2 million
for expenditures that will not be funded beyond 2025, so alternative funding sources will have to be found if those services are to continue.
The city’s largest expense, its police force, remains at the top of its projected expenditures, about $17 million, which includes non-city contributions like Special Purpose Local Sales Tax revenues.
The 2025 budget includes an increase in police personnel from 78 to 87 and 4% raises for city employees.
Dunwoody Councilman Tom Lambert at the Oct. 15 meeting addressed public concerns aired on social media and in local publications the perception that there is “out-of-control spending with the city council.”
“That is not the reality,” he said.
“Despite what the public says, we have not ended with a deficit, in fact we have always ended with a surplus.”
Nobody spoke either in support or against the proposed budget at the Oct. 15 or Oct. 28 public hearing.
Here’s the information we need:
■ Nominator (name, relationship to nominee and contact information)
■ Characteristics and service: Please provide a paragraph describing why this nominee deserves recognition. Include service projects, goals, and areas of interest.
■ A high resolution photograph (1MB in size or more) of the student in any setting.
TUCKER
Tucker City Council moves closer to downtown density increases
By Cathy Cobbs
The Tucker City Council at its Oct. 15 meeting voted 5-2 on second reading to approve a proposed change in density in two downtown areas intended to encourage economic development.
“There are several ways to address housing issues and needs in Tucker,” Community Development Director Courtney Smith said during a presentation to the council. “This text amendment starts to address supply. Staff expects there will be additional text amendments in the future to address other elements.”
The amended ordinance would include the following changes:
NOVEMBER
HAPPENINGS
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings are held at Tucker City Hall, 1975 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 350B, Tucker, GA 30084
• NOVEMBER 4 6:30 P.M. Downtown Development Authority
• NOVEMBER 5, 7 A.M.-7 P.M. Election Day
• NOVEMBER 5, 7 P.M. Zoning Board of Appeals
• NOVEMBER 11
City Hall closed in observance of Veterans Day
• NOVEMBER 12, 7 P.M. City Council
• NOVEMBER 16, 5 P.M. Campre & Cocktails Kelley Cofer Park 4276 N. Park Drive
• NOVEMBER 19, 7 P.M. University of Government Affairs Tucker
• NOVEMBER 21, 7 P.M. Planning Commission
• NOVEMBER 27, 7 P.M. City Council
• NOVEMBER 28-29 City Hall closed in observance of Thanksgiving
■ Increase the amount of permitted multifamily density in the DT-2 and DT-3 zoning districts from 24 units per acre to 35 units per acre. Density exceeding 35 units per acre would require a special land use permit;
■ Reduce the minimum required townhome width requirements from 20 feet to 18 feet;
■ Remove minimum building heights in both zoning districts and allow property owners/developers to request additional building height in DT-2 and DT-3 zoning districts with a special land use permit.
Three members of the council – Virginia Rece, Roger Orlando, and Cara Schroeder – and Mayor Frank Auman – proposed the text amendment, a somewhat unusual move as most requests for text amendments are driven by a proposed project or initiated by city staff.
The measure was discussed at Tucker’s September meeting, with some council members saying it will offer incentives for developers to build in the downtown area, while others say it may drive up housing prices.
At the October meeting, council members asked City Attorney Ted Baggett specific questions about implementing the ordinance on previously approved building permits.
Several speakers at the meeting spoke in
support of the density modifications, saying that the process was well-conceived and researched.
Others in opposition said that the influx of multi-family housing may put a large strain on a limited area that would overload public schools and congest the downtown area.
After a public hearing, Schroeder proposed passage of the measure and Rece seconded the motion. The sponsors of the amendments each spoke in support of the changes.
“I believe after this passes, we will have developers who are going to be willing to move the needle in the downtown area,” Schroeder said.
Council members Vinh Nguyen and Alexis Weaver said they had concerns with the ordinance in that it didn’t include several conditions that would include workforce housing incentives and other community enhancements.
“I’m just concerned that we didn’t go far enough,” Nguyen said.
In other action, the council:
■ Held a public hearing on a special land use permit that would allow for the conversion of an office building to multi-family housing at 4419 Cowan Road. The planning commission on Sept. 19 recommended the permit be granted;
■ Approved on its consent agenda revised expenditures for its newest park, Tucker Town Green;
■ Held a public hearing regarding modifications to an existing ordinance to allow a place of worship at 6430 Lawrenceville Hwy. The applicant spoke in favor of ordinance, and no attendees opposed it. The council approved the first reading unanimously;
■ Heard from a dozen residents who are opposed to the construction of 12 outdoor pickleball courts at the Tucker Recreation Center. The proposal will be discussed at a Nov. 7 public meeting at the center, according to Auman.
Tucker City Council (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
Welcome Co-Op helps refugees start anew with housing, support
By Cathy Cobbs
Each year, thousands of people escaping violence and persecution arrive legally in the United States, looking for a fresh start. However, for most, what they are carrying, usually just a suitcase or two, is all they own.
That’s where the Welcome Co-Op, which recently relocated to Tucker, steps in. The agency works with housing providers, vendors and volunteers to secure housing, collect needed household items and furnishings, and set up homes for documented refugees coming to the Atlanta area.
It also manages the Shop of Hope thrift store where refugees can obtain clothing, shoes and personal items free of charge.
The Welcome Co-Op began with a
conversation in 2018 between several agencies – New American Pathways, The International Rescue Committee and Catholic Charities Atlanta, focusing on collaborating, rather than competing, in resettlement efforts. Inspiritus joined the mix in 2021.
The Welcome Co-Op started providing its piece of resettlement services in 2021. Since then, the agency has set up 1,863 apartments, welcomed 7,673 people to Georgia, and provided clothing to 3,600 people.
“We want to build community together,” Emily Laney, the organization’s executive director said. “The people who arrive here want to work. They want their kids to go to school.”
Laney said statistics show that 95% of resettled families are self-sufficient within
six months.
The agency is looking for a variety of items – gently used furniture, household items and clothing and shoes. Laney said the greatest need is men’s clothing, hygiene kits, and shoes, as well as couches and dining room furniture.
In addition, the agency needs individuals and groups to volunteer in a variety of capacities.
Find out more information at welcomeco-op.org.
HIGH MUSEUM OF ART ATLANTA THROUGH FEB 16 TICKETS AT HIGH.ORG
Georgia O’Keeffe (American, 1887–1986), Pink Dish and Green Leaves (detail), 1928–1929, pastel on board, private collection. Photography courtesy of Bruce M. White.
The Welcome Co-Op Executive Director Emily Laney says the agency concentrates on providing housing and clothing to refugees coming to Atlanta. (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
COMMUNITY
30 years of Intown
By Collin Kelley
I’ve had the remarkable pleasure of editing Atlanta Intown for 22 of its 30 years. I’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating: I am stunned and grateful to still have a job in print journalism nearly 40 years into my career.
I came to Atlanta Intown in 2002 in a time of transition for the publication. Nonami Enterprises had assumed ownership and there were four publications to contend with: Intown,
Atlanta Buckhead, Atlanta North, and our entertainment publication, The Studio. My instruction from interim publisher Joe Hiett was to revitalize the titles, and he gave me rein to do so.
I had been reading Intown since it first hit the streets in 1994 under the name Atlanta 30306, the Morningside zip code of founding publisher Chris Schroder. I had watched over the years as 30306 added more publications: Atlanta 30305, Atlanta Downtown and Atlanta Real Estate.
CITY OF ATLANTA
There was even a short-lived Sandy Springs edition. Those newspapers would eventually morph or combine into the line-up I was facing on my first day on the job. Just like I did with our 20th and 25th anniversary issues, I went to the archive and pulled out the first edition of Atlanta 30306 to look back at where we’ve been.
Flipping through that faded 30306, it’s a snapshot of a community on the cusp of big change. In 1994, people were just starting to figure out how the Internet worked, most people didn’t have cell phones, and the source for neighborhood news was publications like this one.
October 21, 2024
Greetings:
As the 61st Mayor of Atlanta, I am pleased to wish Atlanta Intown a happy 30th Anniversary on behalf of the people of this great city!
Over the past 30 years, Atlanta Intown has blossomed into a beloved publication that captures the vibrant spirit of our city. Our society’s media landscape is constantly shifting. Through these rapid changes, Atlanta Intown has not only adapted but thrived, showcasing everything that makes Atlanta such a globally influential metropolis.
Atlanta Intown highlights our city’s renowned arts & culture, booming entertainment scene, thriving business landscape, and so much more. It shines a spotlight on local restaurants and businesses and tells the stories of inspiring residents and organizations who are making a positive impact in our communities. Each month, this publication reaches more than 27,000 homes and businesses, connecting individuals citywide through insightful storytelling and thought-provoking journalism.
Over the past three decades, Atlanta Intown has truly enriched the lives of countless Atlantans. Congratulations again on this significant milestone. Thank you for telling the stories of our city, and here’s to many more years of success!
I extend my best wishes for a memorable occasion.
Sincerely,
Mayor Andre Dickens
Atlanta Intown
Trendy coffee houses were a new thing then, and the cover of the first 30306 led with a big feature on a dozen that were open in the community. Out of the 12, only three remain: San Francisco Coffee, Aurora, and Caribou.
Everyone was excited that a new grocery store called Harris Teeter was opening in Sage Hill shopping center and that a new branch of the post office was opening on North Highland. The hip place to buy clothes was Bill Hallman’s shop.
Cool Joe and The Funky Soul Symbols were playing at The Dark Horse Tavern and REM had a big hit record called “Monster.” Art galleries were all the rage, too, with features on Aliya Gallery, koolhipfunkystuff, Modern Primitive Gallery and Form & Function
SCAN THE QR CODE TO READ THE
Andre Dickens MAYOR
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens congratulated Atlanta Intown's 30th Anniversary, left. The first issue of Atlanta 30306 from 1994, above.
Gallery, owned by Flournoy Holmes (creator of iconic album and poster art for the Allman Brothers, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, and Carole King) and Michelle Klein.
There were also a handful of advertisers willing to take a chance on a new publication. Since Intown remains advertising driven, the relationships we established with local businesses then remain vital to this day. Without the support of our loyal, local businesses, Intown wouldn’t exist.
Atlanta’s place on the international stage began with the 1996 Summer Olympics and took off like a rocket: the transformation of Downtown, the revitalization of historic neighborhoods, the creation of the Atlanta Beltline, the boom and bust and boom again of the real estate market, the citywide embrace of sustainability, the growth of the film industry, the tech industry and a worldclass art, music and dining scene.
The spirit of 30306 and the communities we cover is still embodied in Atlanta Intown. Our mission to publish hyperlocal news that helps foster a sense of community continues. Under the ownership of Keith Pepper, Intown has become a part of
the Rough Draft family of publications, including the Reporter Newspapers and our award-winning daily newsletter. It continues to be my honor to helm Intown and to bring you stories you won’t find anywhere else – whether you’re getting Intown in your mailbox, at a local retailer, online, or through the newsletter. There are so many more stories to tell, so let’s keep it going for 30 more!
Dist. 4 Atlanta City Councilman Amir Farokhi presented a 30th anniversary proclamation to publisher Keith Pepper, left, and editor Collin Kelley, right.
(Photo by Savannah Pierce)
Giving thanks for anniversaries and a free press
ABOVE THE WATER LINE
Sally Bethea
Given my birthdate, it’s no surprise that I’m “old school” when it comes to keeping files of news clippings. My young staff at Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK) never understood why I thought I needed to have hard copies of the articles published about our river advocacy work. “It’s in your computer files or searchable on the internet,” they’d say. I’d just smile and keep filing the paper.
I have a five-inch ring binder filled with print media from the 1990s and 2000s covering CRK’s years-long battle to force the city of Atlanta to stop dumping sewage into the river and neighborhood streams. When I wrote my book (“Keeping the Chattahoochee”), the binder was instrumental in helping me reconstruct the chronology of the twists and turns of that issue. Few of the old articles were digitally archived. I felt enormously vindicated for being a hard copy hoarder.
Persisting and Growing
Not surprisingly, I also have a file of my monthly columns written over the past nine years for Atlanta Intown: paper copies I can read while holding them in my hands. Yeah, old school. I rifled through the columns this week, proud to be a part of the team that
monthly produces hyperlocal and eclectic stories about people, places, and issues—and has done so for the past thirty years. Happy 30th Anniversary to us and all of you readers! Collin Kelley, Intown’s editor, has been a dream to work with over the years. He puts up with my (always) last-minute submissions and lets me write about any environmental topic I choose. In more than 100 columns, I’ve covered hurricanes, fireflies, parks, the climate crisis, Atlanta’s tree canopy, the Okefenokee, my father’s garden, forever chemicals, pandemic grief and nature, microbeads, fatbergs, negative ions, rainwater harvesting, and the local food movement— to name a few.
Not for the first time, I realize how lucky I am to be able to write for this respected paper, now part of the growing Rough Draft Atlanta family of publications. Four years ago, Keith Pepper became Intown’s publisher. He transitioned the monthly print community newspaper into a digitalfirst media organization and leveraged partnerships throughout the city to help people make connections—for work and entertainment.
Free Speech, Open Government
On Oct. 21, I received one of the highest honors in my career when the Georgia First Amendment Foundation presented me with the Charles Weltner Freedom of Information Award. The foundation, which advocates for government transparency, free speech rights, and access to public information, is
also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year— as is Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. Clearly, 1994 was a great year for start-ups!
When I accepted the award, I told the audience that the success of CRK’s advocacy depends on two essential groups of professionals: investigative journalists and public interest environmental lawyers with access to government records. Without them, we would not have been able to tackle, much less win, our toughest battles. Our accomplishments have depended on our ability to exercise our right to free speech, our ability to access and review information held by public agencies, and the press exercising its right to publish these facts.
impacts of dirty air, contaminated water, and spoiled land, citizens often have no other place to turn than the press to shine a light on serious problems.
Uncensored information about the world around us and opinion pieces—even and especially those that are critical—help ensure public policy decisions that are fair, democratic, inclusive, and accountable. Hard-working journalists (print, radio, television, and social media) help uncover the inequities in our society, corruption, and activities that threaten our families and communities. Their independence is fundamental to democracy and must be defended.
Shining a Light
During my years with CRK, it wasn’t hard to find stories to illustrate why the overhaul of the city’s sewer system was crucial, or to find good reporters, willing publishers, and graphic illustrations of those problems and many others.
In the late 1990s, an Associated Press reporter joined us on a river patrol. It was a lovely day on the water, until the city accidentally spilled 800,000 gallons of raw sewage into the river, literally in front of our boat. That story was carried in news outlets around the Southeast for weeks; it helped convince the public and elected officials that something really needed to be done. When our government agencies and officials fail to do their jobs to safeguard us from the
In early June this year, businesses, neighborhoods, hotels, and hospitals in Atlanta’s central core suffered nearly a week without water, when the city’s aging pipes burst. An eye-opening (and mind-boggling) investigative report by the Atlanta JournalConstitution recently revealed the ongoing risk to the entire drinking water system. For years, city employees had failed to maintain the thousands of shut-off valves buried underground; several failed, creating multiple cascading breaks. The reporter filed nearly a dozen open-records requests, seeking a clear accounting of how the city maintains and tests its shut-off values; officials could not provide one.
As the saying goes: “Sunlight in the best disinfectant.” In other words, people usually perform to a better standard when they know their behavior is being observed. It’s human nature. Accurate, truthful journalists are our guardians; they assemble and verify facts and then work to convey a fair account of their meaning. In this post-truth era of fake news and alternative facts, critical thinking and news literacy are more important than ever.
Thank you Atlanta Intown for three decades of journalistic integrity, important news, and wonderful stories about our community.
Sally Bethea with her commemorative cartoon created by Mike Luckovich. (Photos courtesy Georgia First Amendment Foundation)
Detail of award-winning Atlanta Journal-Constitution cartoonist Mike Luckovich’s cartoon for Sally.
SPONSORED BY VISIT LAKE OCONEE
A guide to holiday traditions at Lake Oconee
As the holiday season approaches, Lake Oconee transforms into a magical winter wonderland filled with festive traditions, cozy experiences, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re seeking Christmas nostalgia at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, shopping for unique gifts at local boutiques, or indulging in seasonal dining, Lake Oconee offers the perfect holiday retreat. From community events and tree lightings to lakeside s'mores and cozy cups of hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This guide will help you plan the perfect holiday getaway at Lake Oconee, where cherished memories await!
Gift Shopping at Lake Oconee
Genuine Georgia: Pick up unique, handcrafted items from local artisans, perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Bend the Trend: Offering sleek, modern designs perfect for your holiday shopping, helping you find unique, luxury pieces for your home this Christmas season.
Greensboro Jewelers: Find the perfect piece of jewelry for your someone special.
J H McCommons Co: Offering a wide variety of gifts for just about anyone, including those hard-to-find items. From handbags to home decor and jewelry, they offer specialty items you won’t find anywhere else.
Soiree at the Lake: Your one-stop shop for Christmas gifts, home décor, stylish women’s clothing, and more!
Holidays at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Ice Skating: Step into The Winter Forest, where guests can skate on a 5,000-squarefoot ice rink, relax in the cozy Ice Lounge, enjoy drinks from the festive “Ice” Bar, and capture magical moments at the Snow Globe Photo Booth.
Gingerbread Cottage: Pastry Chef Michael Gaddy and his team present a lifesized Gingerbread Cottage in the lobby, adorned with thousands of candy pieces. Step inside for a closer look and capture magical holiday memories with festive photos.
Gingerbread House Decorating: A fun, family-friendly activity where you can create your own gingerbread masterpiece.
Dates: December 15, 21, and 22
Time: 12:30pm to 2:30pm
Build a Buddy: Build your “beary” own holiday friend you will love for a lifetime. Traditional and festive bears available for all ages.
Dates: November 20, December 15, 21, and 22
Breakfast with Santa: Kids will love Breakfast with Santa, where they can share their wish lists while enjoying a festive breakfast buffet featuring pancakes, waffles, omelets, and more. Come dressed in holiday attire for this special occasion!
Dates: December 15, 21, and 22
Holiday Events Around Town Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
One Christmas Night in Memphis: The Music of Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins & Elvis Presley: A rocking concert tribute to legendary Sun Records recording artists Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley at the Plaza Arts Center on December 5th.
Downtown Greensboro Tree Lighting: Join the community as they light up the holiday season with the annual festive tree lighting event on December 6th.
Christmas at the Plaza: Come enjoy themed crafts, treats and have your picture taken with Santa at The Plaza Arts Center on December 7th.
Joe Gransden’s Swingin’ Holiday Show: Festival Hall Presents the fabulous Joe Gransden with special guest Robin Latimore for a swingin’ good time holiday show! Come celebrate the season with Joe Gransden and his 10 piece band on December 19th.
Coffee and Pastries at Bonnie’s Coffee Shop: Sip on seasonal favorites like peppermint mochas, spiced lattes, and rich hot chocolate in a charming setting after a day of shopping.
Dinner at Table at the Lake:
Enjoy exceptional dishes featuring local produce, seafood, and inviting flavors. Ask for expert wine pairings to complement your holiday dining experience.
Craft Beer at Oconee Brewing Co: Where festive cheer meets craft brews! Gather with friends and family to enjoy a delightful selection of seasonal beers in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Join us for special holiday events, live music, and tastings that capture the spirit of the season.
Find your reason to linger longer this holiday season
Elf Tuck-Ins: Receive a special visit from Santa’s Elves and hear a bedtime story from them as they deliver a personalized bag filled with hand selected items from Santa.
Photo Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Atlanta School of Massage’s abrupt closure shocks students
By Cathy Cobbs
Within three days, the owner of two of the Southeast’s oldest massage schools abruptly shut down both operations, citing declining enrollment and economic factors.
In a letter dated Sept. 2, Miami-based Acupuncture and Massage College (AMC) President Christy Wood announced that “due to declining enrollments and related losses, we have determined that our school cannot continue to operate and hold classes and consequently it will be closing as of today, September 2, 2024.”
On Sept. 5, Atlanta School of Massage’s (ASM) staff members were called to a mandatory 9 a.m. meeting and told of its immediate closure as a moving truck idled in the parking lot, ready to dismantle the operation as soon as the news dropped.
Business records list Gabriel Gliksberg as the managing partner for both schools, operating under the entity Accelerate Career Colleges LLC in Miami and
While some of the Atlanta School of Massage equipment was sold, a significant amount of furniture, textbooks, and clothing was abandoned. In addition, sources close to the situation say the school
owes its landlord, Foundry Commercial, more than $250,000 in unpaid rent.
Former employees interviewed by Rough Draft say they were forced to sign a non-disclosure agreement or they wouldn’t receive two weeks of severance pay.
Both schools had been in operation for more than 40 years. AMC was founded in 1983 by Dr. Richard Brown and touted itself as the oldest acupuncture school in Florida. ASM was also recognized as the first licensed massage school in Georgia.
ASM students say they were not informed of the closing and misled about it up to the date of its shuttering.
On Sept. 23, a post on the Georgia Postsecondary Education Commission said it had been informed that the Atlanta School of Massage had been closed and that the school had entered into a “teachout agreement” with the International School of Skin, Nailcare and Massage Therapy in Sandy Springs, which will accept completed hours and waive administration and registration fees.
However, several students said the change in venue was not entirely seamless. One student said she was supposed to complete her qualifications on Oct. 11, and now has to extend her education until mid-November.
Demise blamed on new ownership
Sources say Gliksberg, who purchased the Atlanta operation in early 2018 from founder Leticia Allen, is to blame. The atmosphere of camaraderie and caring under Allen flipped to one focused on profit margins under Gliksberg.
A former staff member, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said his employment spanned both ownership eras. The change in regime was evident immediately after Gliksberg took the reins.
“The focus went from being peopleoriented to being mostly about profit,” the employee said. “It became a place where employees were overworked and underpaid. Gabi had an attitude that he could do no wrong and wasn’t interested in anyone’s input.”
Gliksberg, the employee said, replaced key management positions with his own personnel, and staff were kept in the dark about decisions that impacted them.
Financials paint a different picture
While economic factors and dwindling enrollment were cited as factors in the two school closures, financial records at ASM in Atlanta, at least, seem to counter that contention.
Business license renewal information filed by Gilksberg show that gross receipts more than doubled in the five years Accelerate Atlanta owned it.
In 2018, actual gross receipts were almost $2 million, and in 2019, $3.8 million. That number dipped to $3.1 million in 2020, and the following three years were around $4.1 million each.
The business license information, obtained by Rough Draft through an open records request, also reported that an average of 50 employees worked at ASM during the five years Accelerate owned it.
The former employee said that while it was true that enrollment in the massage school program dwindled over the years, the aesthetician program was thriving.
Rough Draft has sent an email to Gilksberg regarding the demise of both schools and asking for comment regarding the rent that the Atlanta school allegedly owes its landlord. Gilksberg did not respond.
Accelerate Atlanta LLC in Atlanta.
One of several dumpsters at the Atlanta School of Massage is being filled with leftover clothing and furniture (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
Two long-derailed Dunwoody properties move forward with new owners
By Cathy Cobbs
Two residential properties in Dunwoody that have been delayed for years because of zoning controversies appear to be moving forward – one with an about-face for its use, and the other still unknown.
The site of a proposed personal care home at 1822 Mount Vernon, which the Dunwoody City Council nixed in 2023, seems to be in the early construction stages for a single-family home. Another site
been a source of contention, not because of its proposed use, but because of the existence of a large tree on the property and a tentative plan to have the developers install a multi-use path in front of it.
At a Dunwoody Board of Zoning Appeals meeting earlier this year, Michael Phelps, a developer who wanted to build three 4,000-square-foot homes on the 2.38-acre parcel, had asked for an exception to allow for street frontages that are less than 150 feet.
at 5283 Tilly Mill Road, which also saw opposition to a proposed exemption, went back on the market in early September and is now listed as “pending.”
Roman and Anna Khokhlan, whose Special Land Use Permit application to build a personal care home servicing seven residents was denied last April, are still listed on DeKalb County tax records as the owners of the property.
However, documents filed with the city identify the homeowner as Alan Mick. Public records indicate that the land sold for $440,000 and that the owner intends to build a two-story, six-bedroom, 4,000-square foot home on the property.
Already, massive amounts of fill dirt have been delivered to the site.
The council last April, after hearing from Dunwoody Community Development Senior Planner Madalyn Smith, voted without discussion 6-0 to deny the personal home application, despite several concessions made by the applicants.
Residents near the facility have opposed the construction of the facility since it was proposed, citing concerns about traffic congestion, parking inadequacies, and the location of a 6,800 square-foot care facility in a residential area.
The Khokhlans had threatened to file a lawsuit, claiming that the denial “would be unconstitutional and discriminate an arbitrary and capricious act by the Mayor and City Council without any rational basis therefore, constituting an abuse of discretion in violation of Article I, Section I, Paragraphs I and II of the Constitution of the State of Georgia of 1983 and the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.”
It is not known if legal action was ever formally initiated.
In the case of the property at 5383 Tilly Mill Road, known colloquially as the Renfroe home after its longtime owners, has
One of the proposed homes would conform to the 150-feet requirement, but the others would be less – one at 107 and the other at 147 feet. At the meeting, Dunwoody City Senior Planner Madalyn Smith explained that the lots would conform otherwise and would be twice as deep as the minimum footprint for R-100 homes (Residential Medium Lot Districts).
However, more than a dozen people at the hearing objected to the exemption because they want a large tree on the property to be preserved if a proposed multiuse path is built on Tilly Mill.
In addition, residents Tom Simon and Bob Hickey, longtime opponents of installing 12-foot-wide multi-use paths along Tilly Mill Road’s east side, argued that the exception opened the door for the city to use stealth tactics to install a multi-use 12-foot path, starting with the Tilly Mill property.
Simon accused the city of employing “deception, falsehoods, contradictions and possible ethics violations” to circumvent the process for public approval of the trail system.
“The city is trying to make the developer pay to build this path, so the city can get the path built on the east side,” Simon said. “They’ve been trying to do this for 2 ½ years.”
At the meeting, the board voted to approve the exception with language that specifically called for the tree’s preservation only. However, there are no city documents that indicate that the development moved forward.
Recently, listing agent RealtyOne Group added a placard that said, “Back on the market.” Zillow listed the property “for sale” for $975,000 on Sept. 4, and “pending” on Sept. 27.
Listing agent Robin Liang, who said the property closed on Oct. 18, declined to reveal the name of the purchaser. TM5383 is currently listed as the property owner on DeKalb County property tax records.
Large amounts of fill dirt have appeared on the Dunwoody site which was to be a residential care home. (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
A property on Tilly Mill Road has been a point of contention with nearby residents because of the uncertainty of the fate of a large tree and the possibility of multi-use paths being installed with redevelopment. (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
Thanksgiving On the Go
Local restaurants offering dine-in and take-out feasts
By Lola McGuire
Atlanta restaurants are opening their doors for Thanksgiving, offering take-out and dine-in options for those who don’t want to spend the day in the kitchen. Whether you want to sit on your couch and watch the Macy’s Day Parade or dress up with friends and family to go out for dinner, we’ve got you covered. Reservations are filling up quickly so be sure to check opentable.com for a comprehensive list of all offerings in the Atlanta area.
Murphy’s
Murphy’s in Virginia-Highland has Thanksgiving to go for local Atlanta residents. The meal comes with soup, salad, sides, sliced turkey breast with a choice of pie! Wine packs are available at an additional cost and can be bought here before Nov. 27. murphysatlanta.com.
Fox Theater
An Atlanta classic, the Fox Theater, is putting on a Foxgiving Feast on Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. There will be a Thanksgivinginspired menu, wine, bourbon, photo ops, and more. Donations will be taken to benefit the Midtown Assistance Center food pantry. Tickets start at $75 and can be purchased at foxtheatre.org.
5Church
5Church is hosting a Thanksgiving buffet
with a myriad of choices of proteins, salads, sides and dessert. The Midtown restaurant will be open Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. A reservation is required and can be made at midtown.5church-atlanta. com.
Fleming’s
A three-course meal is being hosted at Fleming’s in Dunwoody starting at $62 per adult and $31 per child. The full dinner menu will also be available. To save your seat reserve a table at flemingssteakhouse.com. A Thanksgiving catering menu is also available for pick up or delivery Nov. 22 through Nov. 27.
101 Steak
A celebratory feast will be shared with friends and family on Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 101 Steak in Vinings. For more information, visit 101steakatl.com.
Ray’s in the City & Ray’s on the River
Ray’s in the City is hosting a family-style Thanksgiving meal from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for $85 per person, while Ray’s on the River is serving up a Thanksgiving buffet during the same hours for $75 per person. Visit raysinthecity.com or raysontheriver. com to make reservations.
South City Kitchen
South City Kitchen in Midtown, Buckhead, and Vinings will be serving a three-course dinner on Thanksgiving day and a reservation can be made online. They will also be doing Take and Bake meals with all of the fixings for restaurant-quality food served in your home. The ordering
deadline is 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20. Visit southcitykitchen.com to make a reservation and order ahead.
Star Provisions
Star Provisions says, “Let’s talk Turkey” as they prepare for the Thanksgiving season. All orders should be picked up at 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd. Atlanta, on Wed, Nov. 27 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Turkey and fixins are limited so order at startprovisions.com soon.
St. Regis
St. Regis Atlanta is hosting an early Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 28 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a fourcourse tasting menu and opportunities to interact with St. Regis chefs. To reserve your seat, visit exploretock.com/stregisatl.
Daily Chew
Thanksgiving pre-orders are already open at Daily Chew in Morningside. Pre-orders close on Nov. 22 with delivery or pick up on Nov. 27. Visit cateringdailychew. com to order now.
AltaToro
AltaToro’s Annual Thanksgiving Buffet is coming back once again on Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. starting at $65 per adult and $20 per child. There will be traditional holiday favorites with AltaToro’s signature Latin twists at the Midtown eatery.. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at altatoro.com.
The Americano
Davio’s
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse is serving traditional Thanksgiving dinner and holiday desserts in Buckhead. Their dinner menu will also be available Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Adult meals start at $75 and children at $35. They also have a “Tomorrow’s Turkey Sandwich” for $19. To reserve, visit davios.com/atl.
Matthew’s Cafeteria
Matthew’s Cafeteria in Tucker is offering pick-up orders for a southern-style Thanksgiving dinner. Place an order at matthewscafeteria.net.
Wahoo Grill
Wahoo Grill in Decatur is offering a three-course menu to go that serves about eight to ten guests. To-go orders must be placed online by 3 p.m. Nov. 18. For more information, visit wahoogrilldecatur.com.
Zafron
This Thanksgiving, The Americano in Buckhead has a decadent holiday menu that will be served Nov. 28 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Reservations can be made at theamericanoatlanta.com.
For an in-person dining experience go to Zafron in Sandy Springs. Opening at 12 p.m. and closing at 7 p.m. there will be a Thanksgiving menu as well as the regular menu. Starting at $45 this is a meal you will not want to miss. For reservations, visit persianrestaurantsandysprings.com.
Garden & Gun Club
The Garden and Gun Club at the Battery is serving take home Thanksgiving feasts starting at $250. All orders must be placed by Nov. 17 with pick up by Nov. 27 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. To place your order go at gardenandgunclub.com.
Courtesy Murphy’s
Courtesy Garden & Gun Club
Courtesy St. Regis
2024 Michelin Guide honorees announced
By Beth McKibben
The 2024 Michelin Guide to Atlanta is now official. Of the 57 restaurants recognized in this year’s guide, Staplehouse and Spring earned one star, while Atlas and Lazy Betty retained their one star. Restaurants like Whoopsie’s and Superica were named new Bib Gourmands.
Michelin also expanded the guide in 2024 to feature metro Atlanta restaurants outside the perimeter, including Table & Main and Masterpiece.
This year marks the city’s second dining guide from the French tire company, which awards coveted stars, Bib Gourmands, and other distinctions to restaurants in cities worldwide. The inaugural guide to Atlanta debuted in 2023, centering its selections on restaurants from within the city and inside the perimeter.
In addition to revealing the restaurants earning stars and Bib Gourmands and announcing those listed as recommendations in the Atlanta guide for 2024, awards for exceptional cocktails, outstanding sommelier, outstanding service, and Michelin young chef were also presented.
James Beard award-winning writer and AJC Senior Editor Mike Jordan hosted the Oct. 28 ceremony held at the Georgia
World Congress Center. “I always say, Atlanta wins on nights like this,” Jordan said of the 2024 Michelin Guide and the recognition its brings to the city and its food scene.
Check out the full list of starred restaurants, Bib Gourmands, and recommended restaurants part of the 2024 Michelin Guide to Atlanta, along with other award winners.
Exceptional Cocktails Award
Miles Macquarrie, Kimball House
Michelin Service Award
Daniel Crawford, Spring Sommelier Award
Ashleigh McFadden, Nadair
Michelin Young Chef Award
Chef Nolan Wynn, Banshee
Maintained Green Star Award
Bacchanalia
The Chastain
New Bib Gourmand
Masterpiece, Duluth
Superica
Table & Main, Roswell
Whoopsie’s
Bib Gourmand Maintained Antico
Arepa Mia
Banshee
Bomb Biscuit Co.
The Busy Bee
Estrellita
Fishmonger
Fred’s Meat and Bread
Heirloom Market
Little Bear
New One Star
O By Brush
Omakase Table
Spring, Marietta
Staplehouse
Maintained One Star
Atlas
Bacchanalia
Hayakawa
Lazy Betty Mujo
ARMORED AND FABULOUS
OCT. 5, 2024 - JAN. 5, 2025
Get ready to discover how spikes, shells, scales, plates and exoskeletons defend against animals’ hard-knock environments.
2024 Michelin Award honorees. (Photo by Beth McKibben)
ART & ENTERTAINMENT
Nancy Pelosi will close out MJCCA Book Festival on Nov. 17
By Cathy Cobbs
Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the House of Representatives, will serve as the closing speaker for the Book Festival of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) on Nov. 17.
The MJCCA announced that Pelosi, who has served for 37 years representing California’s 11th District, will discuss her newly released memoir, “The Art of Power,” a recounting of her historic rise from housewife to U.S. House Speaker.
“This year’s book festival is set to be our most memorable yet,” MJCCA Book Festival Co-Chair Cherie Aviv said. “We are thrilled to announce Nancy Pelosi as our closing speaker, offering a unique and intimate look at her remarkable career.”
Pelosi, regarded as one of Washington’s most powerful female politicians, was the first woman, the first Californian, and the first Italian-American to hold the speakership. Pelosi served from 2007-2011 and 2019-2023 – the first person to be twice elected to the post.
She was the chief architect of major legislation under two Democratic administrations, including the Affordable Care Act and the American Rescue Plan. Pelosi led House Democrats for 20 years and previously served as House Democratic
She joins several other prominent national figures who will appear in person at the festival, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, former chief medical advisor to the president, who will discuss his book “On Call: A Doctor’s Journey in Public Service,” on Nov. 3. Throughout her political career, Pelosi has been characterized as a polarizing political figure by both the right and left wings, but most vehemently by the Republican party for her stances on gun control and increased taxation on the wealthy, as well as her role in twice impeaching former president Donald Trump.
She was the focus of numerous threats of violence during her career, including an attack on her home in 2021, when vandals
wrote graffiti on her San Francisco home, sprayed fake blood on it and left a severed pig’s head in the yard.
Pelosi’s husband, Paul, suffered significant injuries in late October 2022 when he was attacked by a hammer-wielding assailant who broke into the couple’s San Francisco home shouting, “Where’s Nancy?”
The suspect, David DePape, told police he was planning to take the congresswoman hostage, ask her questions and break her kneecaps if she lied.
Three weeks after the attack and a day after Republicans officially won control of the House Chamber in the 2022 midterms, Pelosi announced that she would not seek any Democratic leadership role while still remaining in Congress.
During the 2023-24 Congressional session, the longtime Democrat has sponsored or signed onto bills to combat homelessness, protect children and raise the minimum wage.
The MJCCA also announced that Noa Tishby, a two-time New York Times bestselling author, will share her insights on the current challenges facing Israel. Lior Raz, the celebrated Israeli actor and co-creator of the television series “Fauda,” will share behind-the-scenes stories from his acclaimed series and offer a look into his future projects, including his upcoming role in “Gladiator 2.”
The MJCCA’s lineup for the remainder of the festival will also include such authors as:
■ Emily Giffin, author of “The Summer Pact”
■ "Seinfeld" Actor and Comedian Michael Richards, author of “Entrances and Exits”
■ John Quiñones and Maria Elena Salinas, co-authors of “One Year in Uvalde: A Story of Hope and Resilience”
■ Mitch Albom, Bestselling author of “Tuesdays with Morrie” and “The Little Liar: A Novel”
■ Amir Tibon Journalist and Author of “The Gates of Gaza: A Story of Betrayal, Survival, and Hope in Israel’s Borderlands”
■ Stuart Eizenstat, Former U.S. Ambassador to the European Union and Author of “The Art of Diplomacy: How American Negotiators Reached Historic Agreements that Changed the World”
■ Joan Nathan, Author of “My Life in Recipes: Food, Family, and Memories” All events will occur at the MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, GA, 30338. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit atlantajcc.org/book.
Chastain Arts Center on path to be preserved as Atlanta landmark
By Dyana Bagby
The Chastain Arts Center & Gallery, a 114-year-old structure that once housed Black indigent residents, could soon be designated an Atlanta landmark.
Atlanta City Councilmember Amir Farokhi has introduced legislation to preserve the arts center building that was a Fulton County almshouse for Black residents from 1910 to 1968. The landmark designation would protect the building at 135 Chastain Park Ave. from demolition unless approved by the Atlanta Urban Design Commission.
Farokhi told Rough Draft protecting the original building of the Chastain Arts Center “is an easy way to preserve Atlanta’s architectural and cultural history.”
“If successful, the legislation will still allow for adjacent renovation and enhancement of the park,” he said.
Farokhi’s proposed ordinance comes two months after The Galloway School razed the campus’ historic Gresham Building despite opposition from many Chastain Park neighborhood residents, Galloway alumni and historic preservationists. The building’s listing on
the National Register of Historic Places did not protect it from demolition.
The Gresham Building was built in 1911 and was originally the Fulton County Almshouse that housed poor and elderly white residents. It was built a half-mile from the almshouse for Black residents, now the arts center. Both buildings were designed by Morgan & Dillon, a noted Atlanta architectural firm.
The Gresham Building was demolished to make way for a new, larger Upper School building as part of The Galloway School’s
multimillion-dollar campus renovations and expansion. The city council approved a special zoning district for the school to be able to construct the larger building and make other changes to existing buildings.
When news broke last year that The Galloway School planned to tear down the Gresham Building, the Atlanta Preservation Center and area residents started working to save the Chastain Arts Center & Gallery.
Farokhi’s proposed ordinance includes a paragraph that says, “As nearby historic structures have been recently demolished,
the Atlanta Preservation Center and neighborhood residents have sought protection for this historic building.”
Atlanta Preservation Center Executive Director David Y. Mitchell said designating the Chastain Arts Center & Gallery as a landmark will preserve the historic character and cultural diversity of not just Chastain Park, but all of Atlanta. He also said he hopes the city council prioritizes historic preservation so more buildings like the Gresham Building are not lost.
“Obviously, a lot has been going on recently, and to have contributing and significant buildings be given protection is the gateway to understanding our city and identity,” Mitchell said.
“Historic preservation is a constant struggle, and any way we can grow the catalog of our historic fabric is a win for Atlanta and for the education of the past, present and future for everyone who has and will make Atlanta their home,” he said.
“The Atlanta Preservation Center is grateful that [the Chastain Arts Center & Gallery] now belongs to the ages.”
The Chastain Arts Center & Gallery is currently closed for mold remediation found during upgrades to the building.
