newcomer magazine atlanta | august/september 2011

Relocation, Lifestyle & Living in Atlanta

December/January 2009

Relocation, Lifestyle & Living in Atlanta

August/September 2011

SceneArts & Entertainment

Exploring Atlanta’sBest Cultural Hot Spots

PLUS:

Discovering Atlanta’s Education OptionsGo Wild at Georgia’s Animal Parks

Retaining your Home’s ValueFamily Fun for Any Budget

4 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

Family Fun in Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

™

No matter what your budget, there’s something to keep everyone in your crew entertained this summer, and you can get to know your new town at the same time.

Retaining Your Home Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 So many choices, but which ones are important? As you buy a new home,

the decision-making is easier if you know the factors that affect your home’s value. Here’s insight to help your home value hold strong.

Atlanta’ Education Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Choosing a new school for your child is an important milestone, and

Atlanta offers plenty of choices. Be prepared to make an informed decision with our rundown of school options.

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22

28

Our Annual Arts & Entertainment Guide . . . . . . 28 Atlanta is a happening town! From highbrow performances to popular

blockbusters, and family-friendly museums to rock concerts, the metro area offers something for everyone. We’ll help you find your bliss.

Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 A comprehensive guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including counties, neighborhoods, relocation tips and much more.

Outside Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Georgia hosts a wide range of exotic species at its wild animal parks. You don’t have to travel very far to take a walk on the wild side.

Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Summer is winding down, but there’s still time for great exhibitions, theater productions and live music around the metro area.

Hidden Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 See a true slice of history at Stone Mountain’s Confederate Memorial Carving.

August/September CONTENTS

In Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta.

Neighborhood Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Boasting impressive property values, established neighborhoods and outstanding schools, Dunwoody is one of Atlanta’s most affluent addresses.

School Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bright Horizons provides innovative programs that help children, families, and employers work together to be their very best..

Restaurant Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Enjoy a seriously authentic taste of southern Italy without leaving home, at Double Zero Napoletana.

COVER IMAGE: Atlanta Ballet dancer Kristine Necessary, in Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, on stage October 21 – 23 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. PHOTO: Charlie McCullers


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

publisher/president

Patrick [email protected]

editor

Melanie Gibbs

[email protected]

marketing & promotions

Michael Thompson

contributing writers

Katie Kelly Bell

Dawn Sloan Downes

Julie Edwards

Susan Flowers

Cynthia Turner

Nathan Turner

Carrie Whitney

director of sales & marketing

Patrick [email protected]

account director

Lacey [email protected]

TO ADVERTISE CALL770-992-0273

Newcomer magazine, August/September 2011, Volume 15, Issue 3. Submissions, photography or ideas may be sent to Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Submissions will not be returned unless otherwise requested and accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Newcomer magazine reserves the right to revise any necessary submissions. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication are strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2011 Killam Publishing, Inc.

For additional copies, further information, advertising or suggestions, please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC.P: 770-992-0273 • F: 770-649-7463

[email protected]

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 7


in FOCUS

Atlanta’s Book: The Lost Gone With the Wind Manuscript, on display at the Atlanta History Center until Sept. 5, features the last four chapters of Margaret Mitchell’s book—some pages with hand-written changes by the author—as well as foreign and first edition copies of Gone With the Wind, the actual desk she used while writing her novel, and select images. This exhibit is included with general admission. For more information, call 404-814-4000 or visit www.atlantahistorycenter.com.

Atlanta Ballet’s 2011-2012 season opens with James Kudelka’s The Four Seasons, a rich interpretation of the journey of life set to Vivaldi’s set of four violin concertos. This is coupled with Wayne McGregor’s avant-garde Eden/Eden, Oct. 21-23 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. For tickets and information, call 404-873-5811 or see www.atlantaballet.com.

news b ites from around atLanta

There’s something new in Suwanee’s Town Center. Fifteen sculptures have been installed as part of the inaugural Suwanee SculpTour, a walkable exhibit of original outdoor sculptures on display through March 2012. Citizens and others are invited to vote for their favorite sculpture, and the one with the most votes at the end of the exhibit will be purchased as part of the city’s permanent art collection. To learn more or cast your vote, visit www.suwanee.com.

Suwanee

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A celebration of community, heritage, and tradi-tion, the Sandy Springs Festival includes something for people of all ages, races, customs and interests. The annual extravaganza involves more than 600 artists, crafters, entertainers and vendors from all over Georgia and the Southeast at Heritage Green, Sept. 17 & 18. Visit www.sandyspringsfestival.com for more information.

Sandy Springs Festival


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Something Wicked is coming to the Fabulous Fox Theatre. Audiences will learn that so much hap-pened in the Land of Oz before Dorothy dropped in, when Broadway Across America brings the Grammy® and Tony® award-winning musical to Atlanta, Sept. 14-Oct. 9. Call 1-800-745-3000 or visit www.wickedthemusical.com or www.foxtheatre.org for information.

Wicked at the Fox

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum is joining museums across the country to offer free admission to active duty military personnel and their families this summer. The Blue Star Museum program of-fers free admission at more than 1,300 museums across America to all active duty military person-nel and their families through Labor Day. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov. For more information about the Carter Museum call 404-865-7100.

The third annual Trilogy Trolley Crawl will be going international. On Aug. 20, visitors can experience London (Barrington Hall), Paris (Bulloch Hall) and Rome (Smith Plantation) all without leaving the surroundings of Roswell. Each one of the historic homes will be transformed for the evening and will offer the corresponding regional cuisine, liba-tions and entertainment from each marvelous in-ternational destination. Trolleys will shuttle guests from estate to estate. Tickets are $40 for the event. For more information, call 770-641-3727 or visit www.roswellgov.com.

Blue Star Museum Program

Trilogy Trolley Crawl


Family FunSUMMER DEALS AND STEALS FOR EVERY BUDGET

$ 0- $ 20

Summer’s here, leaving parents frantically trying to fill the days with activities

to drown out the plaintive cries of “I’m bored!” If you’ve recently moved to the

area, you may still be having a hard enough time locating the box with your

wedding photos, never mind finding ways to entertain your family in a new city.

Even if you are fortunate enough to belong to one of Atlanta’s countless swim

clubs, there are only so many days you—or your kids—can spend poolside.


by Dawn Sloan Downes

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 11www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 11

To save you and your family from that fate worse than almost anything, i.e., boredom, we have compiled a list of

some of Atlanta’s best summer activities for families. Any of them would be a great way to explore a little of the town you now call home. We’ve even separated them by price point to help you budget for those big days out.

FreeCentennial Olympic Park—Marietta Street—Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta’s tourist district, this historic spot is a great place to meet friends, people watch, picnic, and let the kids splash in the Olympic Rings fountains. Synchronized water shows are held daily at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. to a variety of family friendly music including Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, Ste-vie Wonder’s Sir Duke, Twist and Shout by the Beatles, and Circle of Life from The Lion King soundtrack.

The Park at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport—Clairmont Road—This hidden gem of a park combines two of childhood’s passions: watch-ing planes take off and land while happily run-ning about a playground that features swings, a climbing tower and slide, monkey bars, and cute airplane bouncers. A covered picnic pavil-ion provides a shady spot for lunch and a view-ing stand provides kids and parents a great view of the runway.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park—Marietta —Enjoy Mother Nature while learning about this battlefield where the At-lanta Campaign, one of the fiercest battles of the Civil War, began. You can take a self-guided cell phone tour of the battlefield and see can-non emplacements and other relics of the battle

that raged from June 19 to July 2, 1864. The park also offers hiking on 18 miles of trails as well as ample opportunities for bird and wild-life watching and photography. A museum also houses relics of the war and offers an opportu-nity to learn more about this key physical bar-rier that stood between the Federal army and its destruction of Atlanta.

$10 and under per personCochran Mill Nature Center —Palmetto—Fifty heavily-wooded private acres of adven-ture await you and your family just 20 minutes south of Atlanta. For just $3 per adult and $2 per child over 2 years of age, families can hike

and explore along forest trails, catching glimps-es of birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A trip around the pond or into the bog garden will offer fish, turtle, and frog sightings as well as a chance to see carnivorous plants up close in the bog garden. The center is also a rehabilitation facility for wounded wildlife and features a Birds of Prey center where you can see hawks, owls, and vultures. The center’s reptile exhibit is one of the largest in Georgia.

Piedmont Park Aquatic Center —Pied-mont Road—Keep cool on the cheap and enjoy a splish-splashing day of fun and giggles. The newly renovated swimming pool and aquatic center at Piedmont Park features a beach entry pool with a current channel for floating, spray fountains, lap lanes for serious swimmers, plus a concession stand. $1 for children under 6; $2 for children 6 to 16; $4 for adults 17 and up; $2 for senior citizens over 55.

Stone Mountain Park—Stone Moun-tain—Bring your kids and their friends to Stone Mountain for a day of hiking and exploring on

Who says you have to spend an arm and a leg to

have a good time?

Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Family Fun

Piedmont Park Aquatic Center.

Relaxing at Stone Mountain Park.

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12 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com12 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

wooded trails, identifying local species in the songbird habitat, bicycling around Robert E. Lee Drive, wading in cool, clear creeks, fishing in Stone Mountain Lake, and bouts of laugh-ter and exhausting fun on the fenced in play-ground and giant sandbox. $10 per vehicle; note that additional attractions and events may cost extra.

$20 and underImagine It! Children’s Museum—Centen-nial Olympic Park Drive —Let your little one’s imagination run wild as he learns how the world around him works, learns where our food comes from, finds out what distinguishes our culture from other world cultures, and has such a great time he never even realizes he’s having an educational experience. $12.50 per person over 2 years.

Center for Puppetry Arts—1404 Spring Street—Introduce your children to the magical art of puppetry! Enjoy engaging performances that delight both children and adults. Then visit the Center’s puppetry museum to view its permanent collection, which holds over 1,000 puppets as well as special exhibits celebrating a variety of puppetry styles, puppets from other cultures, and more. $16 per person.

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Atlanta Botanical Gardenwww.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

Centennial Olympic Parkwww.centennialpark.com

Center for Puppetry Artswww.puppet.org

Cochran Mill Nature Centerwww.cochranmillnaturecenter.org

DeKalb-Peachtree Airportwww.pdkairport.org

Imagine It! Children’s Museumwww.childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Parkwww.nps.gov/kemo

Piedmont Park Aquatic Centerwww.piedmontpark.org

Stone Mountain Parkwww.stonemountainpark.com

Atlanta Botanical Garden—1345 Pied-mont Avenue—Explore elegant formal gardens, learn about native plant species, discover sur-prising art installations, and frolic in the chil-dren’s garden after a trip through the Fuqua Or-chid Center to see exotic flora from around the world. Before you leave, take a break for lunch in the Sun in My Belly Garden Café. Free for 2 and under; ages 3 to 12, $12.95; 12 and up, $18.95.

Imagine it! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

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Smart Choices Now Pay

Dividends Laterby Dawn Sloane Downs

RETAINING

HOMEVALUE

H O M E S A N D C O M M U N I T I E S


Location“Location! Location! Location!” It’s the apocry-phal motto of real estate agents as far back as anyone can remember, and for good reason. Aside from the size and style of your home, few choices affect the value of your home more than location. When looking for a home, consider lo-cations that are a close commute to major busi-ness corridors where many jobs are located. In the metro Atlanta area there are lots of options.

A study by the National Association of Real-tors shows that home buyers increasingly prefer homes in walk-able neighborhoods and mixed-use developments as they attempt to reduce their carbon footprint, reduce time spent away from their families commuting, and create lives

The Lofts @ 5300, located in Chamblee, offers a well-designed, modern living space.

ou’re about to buy a new home in Atlanta

and hundreds, if not thousands, of

dazzling possibilities dance in your head

like the quintessential sugarplum on Christmas

Eve— Granite countertops. Hardwood floors.

Berber carpeting. Sunken tubs.

Many of the choices you make, like upgraded

carpet or antique bronze plumbing fixtures, will

simply add to your comfort and pleasure with no

impact on your home’s value. That’s okay. Our

homes are meant to reflect our personal style and

serve as havens of comfort and joy. However, some

crucial choices you make may determine how well

your home retains its value in the years to come.

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centered around family and community. Close proximity to mass transit can also have a benefi-cial impact on your home’s value.

Naturally, you’ll also want to consider the quality and reputation of the school district in which you purchase your new home. “Even if a buyer doesn’t currently have or plan to have a school-age child, school district continues to be one of the strongest indicators of home values,” says Joan Kaplan, a Realtor with Drake Realty in Decatur.

Kaki Colvin, a Real-tor at Harry Norman Re-altors, agrees. “The better school districts tend to sell faster, but even those areas still have their short sells and foreclosures right now, which means prices are still dropping, and there are some real bargains to be found that will regain much of their value due to their location in one of the better school districts.”

A Quality BuildWhether you’re choosing an older home in an established neighborhood or want to work with a builder in a new development to personalize your dream home, look for the highest qual-ity in your price range. “Homes made of qual-ity materials by quality craftsmen are far more likely to hold their value,” says Kaplan.

One of the best ways to find a quality home

is through the referrals of family and friends. If they’re happy with their home and have had no major problems, you can probably depend on the quality of other homes in their neigh-borhood or built by their builder. Also, look to builders who can show a proven track record of

quality builds.If you’re looking in a

new development, don’t make your decision to buy based solely on a visit to a model home. Insist on see-ing a finished house or unit that is still vacant. Also, vis-it older developments built by your builder and see how well the homes have held up over time.

The Devil is in the DetailsMany of the choices you make in choosing a home and neighborhood will pay for themselves in years of cozy contentment. Others will continue paying divi-dends when you put your house on the market years later. Learning about which

options have the biggest financial impact on your home’s value can make your choices a little easier.

So, is finding a neighborhood with a pool worth it? Probably so, says Colvin. “A well-maintained neighborhood pool can definitely add to the value of your home, though it’s hard to put a figure on the actual impact.”

Both Realtors also point out that any ame-


PERIMETER @ THE CENTER OF REGIONAL GROWTH

Q: How do businesses benefit by

relocating to Perimeter?

A: The old real estate adage “Loca-tion, Location, Location” is true for Perimeter. It is at the center of regional growth in Metro Atlanta and boasts the largest office market in Metro Atlanta and one of the largest in the Southeast. The world headquarters of three Fortune 500 companies are located in Perimeter, but the area is home to many small businesses as well. Perimeter offers direct access to I-285 and Georgia 400 through six gateways; three MARTA stations providing convenient travel to employ-ment and the Atlanta airport; a wealth of amenities from fine dining to out-door cafes and shopping at Perimeter Mall, Georgia’s second largest and a regional destination that attracts 18 million visitors a year; and the largest concentration of medical facilities in Metro Atlanta. Perimeter’s 100,000 employees and an affluent residential base in the surrounding area help fuel demand for retail and other amenities and services.

Q: What advantage does the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs) offer the area?

A: The PCIDs have contributed $25 mil-lion in the past 11 years from extra taxes voluntarily paid by commercial property owners to leverage $105 million more for a total of $130 mil-lion in infrastructure improvements for Perimeter. By adding pedestrian and bike-friendly amenities such as miles of tree-lined sidewalks and bike lanes, increasing access to major interstates, providing multiple transportation choices and encouraging multi-use developments, Perimeter has become an award-winning live-work-walk-play environment.

For more information contact the Perimeter Community Improvement

Districts at 770-390-1780 or visit www.perimetercid.org.

The better school districts

tend to sell faster.


it better than upgrading to superior cabinetry since most buyers can’t tell the difference.”

One splurge she does recommend? Hard-wood floors. Lisa Justus, Vice President of Benchmark Homes, agrees. “Hardwood floor-ing and ceramic tile are always worth the cost of the upgrade in return on investment because they will last for decades and never go out of style,” Justus says. “They are second in value only to adding granite countertops. Builders can upgrade your countertops from laminate to


nities like pools, tennis courts, parks and play-grounds, or neighborhood clubhouses can in-crease the value of your home but come with the added cost of HOA dues.

What about your home’s interior? Is the high-end custom kitchen worth the extra cost? Kaplan says no. “Kitchens and master bath-rooms are very important to future buyers. You want them to be nice, but don’t over improve them! For instance, upgrading to mid-range cabinetry will give you more value and retain

Benchmark Homes are known for their quality builds and their attention to detail.

Hardwood flooring and ceramic tile are always worth the cost of the upgrade in return on investment.

Hardwood flooring is a quality feature that’s offered in most homes at The Lofts @ 5300.


COVERING: Private | Public | Charter | Boarding | Early Education | Summer Camps | Field Trips and More

Easing into

Middle and

High School

The Benefits

of Open Houses

Helping to Improve

Your Child’s SuccessFIELDTRIPSPage 100

Summer/Fall 2011

PLUS!

So Many Schools…So Little Time

The one source that parents turn to for the best schools and educational resources.

Atlanta School Guide

Call for your copy today!

770.992.0273

Private Schools

Public Schools

Boarding

Summer Camps

Early Education

Tutors

And more!

granite relatively inexpensively.”

Where to Look in AtlantaFortunately, as you start your search for a new home here in Atlanta, you’ll find developments by builders with solid reputations offering many value-holding fea-tures and amenities.

For example, The Highlands at Inverness Ridge by Benchmark Homes features a community pool and playground. These Smyrna/Vinings-area homes start in the $200s and offer front porches, 9 ft. ceilings, and whirlpool tubs.

The Lofts @ 5300 by Char-ter Development Co. may be At-lanta’s best kept secret. Condos range from $63,900 for a studio to $130,900 for a three-bedroom unit. This mixed-use development located adjacent to the Chamblee MARTA station features a pool, gardens, rooftop tennis courts and is within an easy walk from a park and Chamblee’s new walking trails.

Wyndham Falls Estates by Wilson Parker

Homes is just minutes from downtown Decatur, Arabia Mountain Park, and downtown Atlanta. These elegantly styled three- and four-bedroom single-family homes in the fastest growing part

of DeKalb County offer master suites with sitting rooms, plus stainless steel kitchens.

The Estate at Walden Park by Traton Homes—a gated, master planned community in South Fulton County—offers homes starting at $270,000. The com-munity features a pool, walking trails, lighted tennis courts, bas-ketball and volleyball courts, and an amphitheater.

The ultimate value of any home is the love and laughter shared inside its walls. Practically speaking, our homes remain the largest financial investment most of us will ever make. That’s why it is so important we make smart choices when buying them. Choosing wisely when it comes to the core decisions that will help our homes hold their value, we can enjoy the fruits of our

thoughtful decision-making regarding location, quality and a few choice amenities long after our new home dreams have settled into a beau-tiful reality.

The ultimate value of any home is the love and laughter

shared inside its walls.

20 | Newcomer Magazine |

SpOtlightneighborhood

Dunwoodyoasting impressive property values, established neighborhoods and outstanding schools, Dun-woody has long been recognized as one of Atlanta’s most affluent addresses and offers attrac-tions for kids and families. Beyond being just a great place to live, Dunwoody may be best

recognized as a shopping and dining Mecca.

Culinary TreatsFor a fun night out with live Latin music and tasty tapas, eclipse di Luna (678-205-5862) is the place to go. Com Dunwoody (770-512-7410), a Best of Atlanta 2010 pick, offers exceptional authentic French-influenced Vietnamese cuisine. Those looking for pub fare and a quick pint will enjoy a stop at The Royal Oak Pub (770-390-0859), while those looking for something more sophisticated find inspiration at d’Vine wine Bar (770-350-9463) with its extensive selection of wines, tasting club, and live music.

arts & entertainmentThis spring saw the city’s first ever Dunwoody arts Festival, and the Dunwoody Music Festi-val returns for its second year at Brook Run Park, Oct. 22-23. Brook Run Park features play equipment for toddlers and older children. Water features, natural areas for exploring, and a fort with rope ladders add to the fun. Little artists can get their art fix at Purple Hippo Studios (770-730-0605) with classes, camps, and art-themed birthday par-ties. The Dunwoody nature Center (770-394-3322) holds all the fun for little naturalists, giving them space to splash in the creek, take classes, and enjoy a plethora of family activities.

housingWell-established neighborhoods like George-town, Dunwoody Club Forest, and Kingsley offer traditional homes starting in the $200s.

Serrano (404-645-7999) offers hip, urban con-dominiums in 13 floor plans starting in the high $100s. The Preserve at Fischer Mansion (404-957-9693) mixes the old and new in 54 elegant townhomes and estate homes ranging from the $240s to $370s, while John Wieland Homes presents a selection of custom built homes at The enclave at Jett Ferry (770-668-9577) starting at $1.1 million.

Local TreasuresOver 18 million visitors a year come from across the Southeast to shop and dine at Perimeter Mall (770-394-4270), home to over 200 retail-ers and six specialty restaurants. Beyond the mall, shoppers love Lola’s Boutique (770-698-1400) offering fashions and jewelry by Joe’s Jeans, Mac-n-Jac, Lucky, and Ali & Bird. For a unique take on home furnishings, Dunwoody natives swear by Southern Comforts (770-901-5001), featuring new and consignment furniture and accessories. Through the efforts of the Perimeter Com-munity Improvement Districts (PCIDs), repre-senting both the Central (DeKalb) and Fulton Pe-rimeter CIDs, the city’s Ashford-Dunwoody and Hammond Drive corridor has blossomed into a walk-able district mixing housing, shopping, din-ing, and corporate employers. The PCIDs are lead-ing the charge to implement vital transportation enhancements coupled with land use and zoning strategies that will enhance mobility and improve access to the Perimeter activity center. n

— Dawn Sloan-Downes

B

ThE InsIdE TrACK The Ashford-dunwoody / hammond drive corridor is the largest employment district in the region, including employers UPs, newell-rubbermaid, Cox Enterprises, and northside hospital, among others.

Brook run Park

The Terraces

The Preserve at Fischer Mansion

outdoor Shopping and Boutiques

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While Atlanta abounds with top-notch public and private schools, finding

the one that will be the right fit for your child and family usually involves

a little legwork. With research, you’ll quickly realize that your decision

extends beyond choosing between public and private.

Choosing the education that’s right for your childby Carrie Whitney

Education Options

ATLANTA’S

E D U C A T I O N I N S I G H T


ndeed, there are numerous ways in which schools differ from one another—educa-tional philosophy, curriculum and teach-

ing methods, to name just a few. In order to navigate your way through Atlanta’s educational landscape to find the best school for your child, you must first understand the distinctions that exist, particularly how they relate to your child’s day-to-day educational experience. For schools in Atlanta, a one-size-fits-all mentality does not apply, and many students benefit from non-standard and innovative educational approach-es. For practical reasons, all of the education options in Atlanta could not be included here, so the following are just some of the choices the area has to offer.

Charter and MagnetTwo terms that seem to arise more frequently in Georgia’s educational landscape are char-ter schools and magnet schools. Both charter schools and magnet schools are public pro-grams and appear in school systems throughout the Metro area. For example, Imagine Schools, which operates charter schools around the country, has three locations in Metro Atlanta. According to the Georgia Department of Edu-

cation, a charter school operates according to the terms of a charter, or contract, that has been approved by the local and state boards of edu-cation. A school community will seek charter status if it feels its students and parents would benefit from greater autonomy. Students, par-ents and the school enjoy more decision-making freedom, but the school is still held accountable by the state for meeting the performance-based objectives laid out in the charter, as well as state curriculum standards. The only requirement for attending a charter school is to live within the designated area—a charter school cannot have admission criteria or charge tuition.

A magnet school or theme school often does feature admission criteria because it focuses on a particular instructional strategy that may not be suited to all students. For example, some mag-

I

net schools feature a curriculum with a heavy focus on one particular discipline, such as per-forming arts, technology or math and science. A variety of magnet programs is available in Metro Atlanta—visit the Georgia Department of Edu-cation Web site (www.gadoe.org) to search for particular programs.

MontessoriMany children, particularly young ones, learn best through experience. With this in mind, many parents choose a Montessori program for their children. Following the ideas of Dr. Ma-ria Montessori, Montessori schools have sprung up around the country—there are dozens in the Metro Atlanta area alone. Mostly private, these schools have strong academics but are also concerned with the development of the

In Atlanta, a one-size-fits-all mentality does

not apply.


whole child, and the curriculum often includes practical and community-based components. Montessori schools provide multi-age classes, and schools include preschool through middle school education. Some also have infant and toddler rooms, and a very few extend the Mon-tessori philosophy through high school.

ReligiousSchools with a religious affiliation typically op-erate according to the belief that a faith-based foundation of moral values and principles pre-pares students to be productive citizens in soci-ety. These values are generally considered to be just as important as the subjects that are stud-ied. Students seeking a school with a religious affiliation should certainly find what they are looking for in Metro Atlanta. Indeed, a variety of religious schools exist in the area, including Lu-theran, Catholic, Methodist, Jewish and Baptist. There are also non-denominational Christian schools, as well as those with a general Chris-tian affiliation.

International BaccalaureateAs the world becomes increasingly globalized, many parents hope to prepare their children with an international education, so many turn

to schools that offer the International Baccalau-reate (IB) program, which encourages students to not only be engaged learners, but to also be interested and involved “world citizens.” The Primary Years Programme focuses on the to-tal growth of the child, while the Middle Years

Programme concentrates on enhancing critical thinking skills. Students aged 16 to 19 com-plete the Diploma Programme, in which they are taught to ask challenging questions, develop a strong sense of their own cultural identity and learn how to communicate successfully with

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people from other cultures. At the Atlanta Inter-national School, students take external exams during the last year, which can grant them col-lege credit, and all students take a second mod-ern language beginning with their first year in the school.

Special NeedsChildren with learning differences can also find a school that meets their needs. If your child has difficulty in school because of problems with concentration, learning, language or behavior, he or she may benefit from attending a special needs school. Most special needs schools have fewer students in each class and a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for more one-on-one instruction. For example, at the Bedford School

in Fairburn, a private school for students with learning disabilities, there are 12 or fewer stu-dents in each class.

Tutorial For students who excel with individualized in-struction, a school that implements a tutorial approach may be best. In these schools, most

learning is one-to-one, and students attend few, if any, classes. Students are able to work at their own pace. However, self-discipline and a desire to attend the school are essential to succeed-ing in a tutorial-based environment because, for individualized schooling to work, a student must be an active participant in his or her own education.

Single-GenderMany students find that single-gender schools help them stay focused on their studies and foster confidence. Research has shown that at-tending single-gender schools can improve aca-demic achievement for some students. There has been much debate about whether boys and girls learn differently, and many advocate that single-gender schools break down gender stereotypes. One single-gender school in At-lanta, the Atlanta Girls’ School, welcomes girls in grades six through 12 and strives to develop them into well-educated, self-reliant and suc-cessful young women. The all-girl environment encourages students to develop intellectual, leadership and service skills, as well as creative and athletic capabilities, free from some of the social concerns that many students face in their formative middle and high school years.

Children with learning differences

can also find a school that meets

their needs.


schoolSpOtlight

etro Atlanta families looking for world-class child care don’t need to look very far—just look for Bright Horizons. With a mission to provide innovative programs that help children, families, and

employers work together to be their very best, Bright Horizons Family So-lutions® is the world’s leading provider of employer-sponsored child care, early education, and work/life solutions, managing child care centers for many of the world’s top corporations, hospitals, universities, and govern-ment agencies. In the Atlanta area, these include NCR, the Saint Joseph’s Health System, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia Tech, and LIFE University. You don’t have to work for one of these to take advantage of Bright Horizons’ services, though. Seven of its metro Atlanta centers are des-ignated as “community welcoming” and are open to residents in the area, as well. (These are listed on the Bright Horizons web site.) Although Bright Horizons’ core program is for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old, camp sessions are offered for children up to 12 years. Some programs also offer intersession care and have transportation to pick up school-agers after school. Most of the centers in the Atlanta area meet the standards of excellence set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and four more are undergoing accreditation. What’s so special about Bright Horizons? Besides the fact that the com-pany has been named one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Compa-nies to Work for in America” 12 times, one of the things that differentiates Bright Horizons is its curriculum. The World at Their Fingertips curriculum is implemented as early as infancy and creates developmentally appropriate educational environments that empower children to be confident, success-ful, lifelong learners. “The curriculum is specific to the needs of each child, not prepackaged,” notes Melony Gibson, Regional Manager. The World cur-

riculum places a strong emphasis on the development of language, math, science, and social skills and incorporates the key elements that contribute to a child’s readiness for school and academic success. Also setting Bright Horizons apart, it was the first child care and early education organization to sign up to the Partnership for a Healthier America and the First Lady’s Let’s Move campaign, which reaffirms Bright Horizons’ commitment to the health of the children in its care and showcases its best practices around nutrition and physical activity as a model for child care organizations nationwide. Even before making this commitment, Bright Horizons’ curriculum in-cluded the Well Aware component, which fosters positive attitudes toward healthy living, physical activity, and nutrition through appropriate experi-ences that incorporate healthful habits into daily routines. “Well Aware edu-cates families in ways to be healthy,” Gibson says. For example, families will notice the menu is different from other care centers. “They will see a menu that meets or exceeds health standards,” she adds. “Bright Horizons offers a lot of organics and caters to diverse needs.” For families seeking an innovative solution to help prepare their children for academic success and a healthier future, Bright Horizons are at hand. n

M

The SpecificS

Tuition: Varies and is center specific.

Locations: 7 Metro Atlanta locations (Atlanta, Alpharetta, Duluth, Marietta).

Contact: 678-489-3942, www.brighthorizons.com

Bright HorizonsThe World at Your child’s fingertips

by Melanie F. Gibbs

Ages: Core program 6 weeks - 5 years old; camp sessions up to 12 years; some offer school-age after-school care.

Curriculum: World at Their Fingertips: Designed to prepare children for success in school and in life.

Kristine NecessaryPhoto by Charlie McCullers

THE FOUR SEASONSChoreographed by James KudelkaMusic by Antonio VivaldiLive with the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra

Also featuring EDEN | EDENChoreographed by Wayne McGregor

October 21–23, 2011Tickets start as low as $20!Visit atlantaballet.com orcall at 800.982.2787



by Cynthia Turner

Arts & EntertainmentAtlanta’s

Scene

Exploring Atlanta’s Cultural Hot Spots

Memphis arrives at The Fox Theatre in January.


CONCERT & THEATER VENUES

Alliance Theatre 404-733-4650, www.alliancetheatre.orgLocated at Woodruff Arts Center, the Alliance Theatre continues to bring new works, cel-ebrated directors and shows that range from musical comedies to classic dramas. The 2011-12 season boasts favorites, like The Wizard of Oz and A Christmas Carol, as well as the world premier of a new musical written by John Mel-lencamp and Stephen King.

The Center for Puppetry Arts404-873-3391, www.puppet.orgA unique cultural treasure, the Center for Pup-petry Arts offers year-round performances for all ages including original adaptations of classic stories, new works and innovative shows. The Center also is known for its creative workshops and hands-on museum where visitors can ex-perience the wonder of puppetry through per-manent and special exhibits. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will return this holiday season after last year’s wildly successful debut.

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.comThe first major performing arts facility to be built in Metro Atlanta in four decades, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre includes a 2,750-seat theater and a 10,000-square-foot ballroom, making it an ideal venue for ballet performances and corporate meetings alike. The centre features performances by the Atlanta Opera, the Atlanta Ballet, the Gas South Broad-way Series, and popular concerts.

Ferst Center for the Arts404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.orgAt the Ferst Center for the Arts, located in Georgia Tech’s downtown campus, audiences have been dazzled by national and international performers for 19 years. The 2011-2012 season includes Bill Cosby, Herb Alpert and the Impe-rial Acrobats among the Center’s music, dance and comedy performances.

The Fox Theatre404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org The Fabulous Fox Theatre was originally built as an outlandish, opulent, grandiose monu-ment in the Roaring 20s, and since continues to run a series of movies, plays, musicals, dance performances and concerts. Both Theater of the Stars and Broadway Across America bring world-class shows to the Fox, as well as a num-ber of concerts and performances each year.

Jennie T. Anderson Theatre770-528-8490, www.prca.cobbcountyga.govCobb County’s Jennie T. Anderson Theatre is a 606-seat performing arts theatre at the Cobb County Civic Center that hosts concerts, plays, recitals and other events. Its Encore Series each year brings in some of the top performing acts in the nation.

Rialto Center for the Arts404-413-9849, www.rialtocenter.orgThe world is at your fingertips at Georgia State University’s Rialto Center for the Arts, where international performers introduce Atlantans to art in all of its cultural manifestations. The venue is home to the Rialto Series presenting the

Metro Atlanta boasts a thriving arts and entertainment

scene. Exciting exhibitions and state-of-the-art

performance facilities attract both national and

international attention. Here is a look at where you can

find some of the best and brightest shows, exhibits,

museums and culture—those that make the city’s arts

and entertainment scene a show-stopping success.

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TOP: Bill Cosby appears at Ferst Center BOTTOM: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer at Center for Puppetry Arts.


ebration” Concert with world-famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma, Bach’s St. Matthew Passion and John Adams’ A Flowering Tree.

Broadway Across America800-278-4447, www.broadwayacrossamerica.comThe national production company known as Broadway Across America offers the hot-test tickets in town. For more than 25 years, Broadway Across America has brought block-buster shows direct from the Great White Way to Atlanta. This year’s lineup includes Wicked, Mama Mia and more.

Georgia Shakespeare404-264-0020, www.gashakespeare.orgOglethorpe University’s permanent 509-seat theater is home to Georgia Shakespeare, the professional theater company of Atlanta’s finest artists who have been showcasing the works of the master dramatist since its founding in 1985.

Theater of the Stars 404-252-8960, www.theaterofthestars.comFounded more than 50 years ago to produce and present the Broadway musicals to regional the-aters, the best of Broadway calls the Fox home

best of national and international jazz, world music, and dance; School of Music perfor-mances; the Atlanta Film Festival and many others.

Spivey Hall 678-466-4200, www.spiveyhall.orgLocated at Clayton State University, Spivey Hall presents jazz and classical music in one of the best acoustical settings in Atlanta. The hall’s chandeliers, balcony and luxuriously appoint-ed setting have a European feel and lends to the concert settings’ beauty. And the stunning 4,412-pipe organ is well worth the visit. Look for performances by the likes of pianist Paul Lewis, Branford Marsalis & Joey Calderazzo Duo, and The Glenn Miller Orchestra.

PERFORMING ARTS

Atlanta Ballet404-873-5811, www.atlantaballet.comAtlanta is home to the oldest professional dance company in America, the Atlanta Ballet, which has been applauded for classics such as Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet. This will be Atlanta Ballet’s 82nd season, highlighted by a world premiere full-length fairytale ballet by dance legend Twyla Tharp. Anchoring the season will be Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, the treasured holi-day tradition that has continued to thrill Atlanta audiences for more than 50 years. A holiday event to enjoy with the entire family.

Atlanta Opera 404-881-8885, www.atlantaopera.orgFounded in 1979, The Atlanta Opera is one of the finest regional opera companies in the na-tion, drawing audiences from metropolitan At-lanta as well as from the Southeast. The 2011-2012 season treats audiences to performances of Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor; The Golden Ticket, based on the book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”; and Mozart’s Don Giovanni.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.orgThe 2011-2012 season of the award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will be the Or-chestra’s 67th. Highlights include “A King Cel-


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TOP: (Left to right): How the Grinch Stole Christmas arrives in November, Spivey Hall’s 4,412-pipe organ, Wicked returns to The Fox Theatre in September. BELOW: Imperial acrobats of China at Ferst Center.


with Theater of the Stars. Productions of Guys and Dolls and Annie highlight the year ahead.

Theatrical Outfit404-577-5257, www.theatricaloutfit.orgFor 35 years, the Theatrical Outfit has been producing classic and contemporary theater with an emphasis on work indigenous to the culture of the American South. This season in-cludes Freud’s Last Session, Red, and A Wrinkle in Time.

ATLANTA’S SEASON

HIGHLIGHTS

ATLANTA BALLETTwyla Tharp’s “The Princess and The Goblin” Twyla Tharp sets her sights on a full-length, world premiere at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.February 10-19, 2012404-892-3303www.atlantaballet.com

THE ATLANTA OPERALucia di LammermoorDonizetti’s masterpiece features the most spectacular mad scene in opera. Sung in Italian with English supertitles.November 12, 15, 18, 20404-881-8885www.atlantaopera.org

ATLANTA BALLET CENTRE FOR DANCE EDUCATION Open HouseVisit the Cobb and Buckhead studios to register for the new year.August 13, 2011404-873-5811www.atlantaballet.com/centre

BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICAMEMPHIS A hot new Broadway musical at The Fabulous Fox Theatre.January 31-February 5, 2012800-278-4447www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

FERST CENTER FOR THE ARTSBill CosbyDon’t miss one of America’s most beloved comedians. October 23, 2011404-894-9600 www.ferstcenter.org

SPIVEY HALLPaul Lewis, pianoSpivey Hall’s season opening celebration features works by Franz Schubert.October 9, 2011678-466-4200www.spiveyhall.org

TELLUS SCIENCE MUSEUMNight at the Museum 3Tellus comes to life with the biggest names in science and science fiction!August 6, 2011770-606-5700www.tellusmuseum.org

You won’t want to miss these shows and events!

(404-249-7015, www.margaretmitchellhouse.com), where celebrated author Margaret Mitchell penned the classic Southern tale Gone With the Wind.

Booth Western Art Museum770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.orgThe state’s second-largest art museum, Cart-ersville’s Booth Western Art Museum is also an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Perma-nent galleries American West Gallery, Cowboy

TOP: (Left to right): Don Giovanni at the Atlanta Opera, Theater of a Concert at ASO, Native American Dancing at the Booth Western Art Museum.

MUSEUMS

Atlanta History Center404-814-4000, www.atlantahistorycenter.comWith its permanent and temporary exhibitions; hands-on activities, lectures and workshops; and 33 acres of gardens, the opulent Swan House and the Tullie Smith Farm, the Atlanta History Center offers more than enough to keep visitors engaged and happy. The Center also oversees the Margaret Mitchell House

SPECIAL EVENTS PROMOT ION

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COVERING: Private | Public | Charter | Boarding | Early Education | Summer Camps | Field Trips and More

Easing into

Middle and

High School

The Benefits

of Open Houses

Helping to Improve

Your Child’s SuccessFIELDTRIPSPage 100

Summer/Fall 2011

PLUS!

So Many Schools…So Little Time

The one source that parents turn to for the best schools and educational resources.

Atlanta School Guide

Call for your copy today!

770.992.0273

Private Schools

Public Schools

Boarding

Summer Camps

Early Education

Tutors

And more!


The Fossil Dig at Tellus Science Museum is fun for all ages.

Gallery, Faces of the West, Heading West, The Modern West, Sagebrush Ranch, James and Carolyn Millar Presidential Gallery, War is Hell, and a Sculpture Court are joined by special exhibits and an annual Festival & Symposium.

Fernbank404-929-6300, www.fernbankmuseum.orgThe city’s two renowned science museums, Fernbank Museum of Natu-ral History and Fernbank Science Center (678-874-7102, fsc.fernbank.edu), make children of all ages “ooh” and “aah” through the museums’ corridors. From large-scale dinosaur fossils to the five-story-high, 72-foot-wide IMAX movie screen to the planetarium and observatory, science reigns supreme at Fernbank.

Gone With the Wind Museum770-794-5576, www.gwtwmarietta.comVisit “Scarlett on the Square” in a Marietta museum dedicated to the be-loved Southern classic. The Gone With the Wind Museum features an extensive collection of memorabilia, including the original Bengaline honeymoon gown worn by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara in the movie, promotional pieces and collectibles, foreign copies of the novel, as well as Margaret Mitchell’s personal volumes.

High Museum of Art404-733-5000, www.high.org The High Museum of Art has long attracted attention as the leading Southeastern art museum. Patrons can look forward to exhibits such as The Sculpture of Grainger McKoy, Embracing Elegance, 1885-1920: American Art from the Huber Family Collection; and Picasso to Warhol: Twelve Modern Masters.

Michael C. Carlos Museum404-727-4282, www.carlos.emory.eduEmory University’s Michael C. Carlos Museum is one of the Southeast’s premier ancient art museums with major collections of art objects from ancient Egypt, Nubia, Near East, Greece, Rome, ancient Americas, Africa, and Asia, as well as a collection of works on paper from the Renaissance to the present.

Tellus Science Museum770-606-5700, www.tellusmuseum.orgOne of the newest museums to Georgia is the Tellus Science Museum in


OUTDOOR CONCERT VENUES

Chastain Park Amphitheatre is not only a place to enjoy music under the stars in-town, but allows guests to bring in picnics for shows by both the Delta Classic Chastain Concert series (404-733-5012, www.classicchastain.com) and Live Na-tion productions (800-745-3000, www.livenation.com).

(404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org), Alpharetta’s 12,000-seat Verizon Wireless at Encore Park (404-733-5010, www.vzwamp.com) has become one of the premiere concert facilities outside Atlanta.

Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheatre, “The Fred,” (770-631-0630, www.amphitheater.org) brings acts like Kool & The Gang, Bryan Adams and comedians Ryan Stiles and Greg Poops to Peachtree City.

Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood (404-443-5090, www.livenation.com) holds nearly 20,000 people to watch big names like Motley Crue, Journey, Kid Rock, and Toby Keith.

Cartersville, which brings the past, present and future to life in unique galleries. Kids will cower beneath the Tyrannosaurus Rex, become mad scientists in The Collins Family My Big Backyard, get up close and personal with sparkling gems and minerals, and explore 100 years of transportation technology.

CULTURE FOR KIDS

Atlanta Ballet’s Centre for Dance Education404-873-5811, www.atlantaballet.com/centreSince its founding in 1996, the Centre has become one of the top ten dance education facilities in the country. Classes for two-year-olds up to pre-professionals and adults are offered. A relationship with Ken-nesaw State University provides a venue for collaborative dance educa-tion between the two institutions.

Imagine It! Children’s Museum404-659-5437, www.childrensmuseumatlanta.orgA place for toddlers and young children to discover through play, Imagine It! has consistently been ranked by national parenting maga-zines as one of the best children’s museums in the country. All hands will be engaged in the museum’s art centers, crawl spaces, water dis-covery, dress up areas, a play grocery store and other exhibits aimed at letting children discover and explore.

Sophie Hirsh Srochi Jewish Discovery Museum678-812-4171, www.atlantajcc.orgAn interactive museum for children, the Sophie Hirsh Srochi Discov-ery Museum is part museum, part theatre, and all hands-on. Children will explore Jewish values, traditions, holidays and heritage.

The Wren’s Nest404-753-7735, www.wrensnestonline.comBy preserving the legacy of Joel Chandler Harris—19th century as-sociate editor of the Atlanta Constitution and author of the Uncle Re-mus stories—and the heritage of African American folklore through storytelling, tours and student publishing, the Wren’s Nest serves as an educational resource. Adults will enjoy the storytelling as much as children do!


restaurantReview

Double Zero NapoletanaA Taste of italy Without Leaving Town

by Katie Kelly Bell

trip to Italy might not be in your budget this year, but that doesn’t mean you have to be deprived. Just north of 1-285 on Roswell Road, the team at Double Zero Napoletana serves up one seriously

authentic southern Italian experience. Atlanta-based Castellucci Hospitality Group (Iberian Pig and Sugo) own-ers Federico Castellucci III and Stephanie Castellucci, together with Execu-tive Chef John Coley, have assembled a star-studded cast of premium Italian ingredients. Consider the pizza: mind you this is not your typical average everyday ‘za. The double zero rated superfine flour comes from Italy, as do the Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and the yeast starter. Throw in the two gorgeous Stefano ovens, also imported from Italy, and one can ap-preciate the special taste experience of this pizza. Our Funghi ‘pizze’ arrived with an aromatic blend of seasonal mushrooms, ruby red grape tomatoes, caramelized onions and black truffle shavings. The crust, blistered from the searing 1,000 degree heat, is simultaneously chewy and crisp—a magical texture only such a wood-burning oven can create. You might easily be satisfied with a pizza accompanied by a glass of any of the southern Italian wines. The list is thorough and brimming with all manner of unique varietals for American palates, Aglianico, Negroamaro, and Malvasia to name a few. However, if you stop, you’ll miss other tempta-tions. Bring a crowd with you, as most everything on the menu is served in portions suitable for sharing: pizza, anti-pasti, pasta, meats and cheeses, and entrees. A daily ravioli takes advantage of seasonal offerings. Ours came stuffed with mascar-pone cheese and a drift of morels on top finished with vivid green dots of basil oil: in a word, sumptuous. The fresh-from-scratch ravioli and premium ingredi-ents are testimony to the painstaking care the kitchen takes with reproduc-ing an authentic Italian taste experience. A bowl of calamari a granchi comes with crab stuffed calamari and squid ink linguini. Tossed with capers and taggiasca olives, its saline freshness tastes of the sea. L’Arrosto, the roast, is a full-on table share with heaps of house made specialties served on the side. The one-and-half pound roasted pork shoulder comes with pizza nuvole, pickled vegetables, grilled radicchio salad, pepper jelly, roasted garlic puree, Calabrian chilies and apple almond mustard. If you’re saving room for an entrée, skip the roast and go for the cast iron polenta. A bewitching blend of ricotta salata, sausages and chick peas gets a spike of heat from a bit of Calabrian pepper jelly. We also polished off our lamb polpettine. A fetching set of three crispy lamb meatballs

prepared sous vide, laced with a tomato basil jam and topped with fresh mozzarella. It’s easy to be seduced by the myriad starters, pizzas pastas and such, but if you have room for an entrée you’ll have to make the call be-tween the Delmonico rib-eye or seared scallops with fennel and orange salad … oh and did I mention the osso buco? This is probably not the place to come for a quiet, serious meal. Painted concrete floors, wood and natural tones, and lots of helpful ceiling acous-

tics to mute the clamor give this place a nice, gentle buzz. Divided into three sections you can order a to-go meal in the café, grab a stool at the pizza bar and watch the ovens in action or take a seat in the dining room.

Communal tables in the center of the dining room are ideal for large groups to gather round. If it’s just the two of you, ask for a seat up along the wall where you can spread out on the long leather banquette. Whatever you decide, you’ll taste southern Italy at its finest without leaving town. n

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ABOVE: The large open space lends itself to a sharing atmosphere. LEFT: The Giardino salad features watermelon radish, heirloom carrots, baby turnips, and edible flowers.

The DeTAiLSHours: Sun. - Thurs., 5 - 10 p.m.; Fri. – Sat., 5 - 11 p.m.Reservations: YesPhone: 404-991-3666 Parking: ValetAttire: Casually hip

Atmosphere: Fine Italian cuisine in a relaxed convivial atmosphere. Recommendations: Affettati pizza (lots of Italian meats), market fish, cast iron polenta with soft egg, lamb polpettine.Location: 5825 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30328 Web: www.doublezeroatl.com

What you need to know before, during and after your move

INDEX

Tips on Getting Started

Counties, Neighborhoods, Utilities, Hospitals, Education

Metro Atlanta Region Map

42

44

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GETTING STARTED

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Mass TransitOne way to avoid long commutes is to

take advantage of the city’s local transit

system, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit

Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and

bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to

travel to downtown or the airport. The fee

for traveling one way is $2.00 including

transfers, and payment is even easier now

with the Breeze limited-use and extended-

use cards. Weekly and monthly passes can

be obtained at discounted rates. For fares,

schedule and route information call 404-

848-5000 or visit www.itsmarta.com.

Driver’s LicenseOut-of-state drivers are required to obtain a

Georgia driver’s license within 30 days. To

obtain your license, you will need to provide the

following: 1) Previous driver’s license; 2) Two

pieces of identification; 3) An eye exam at the

time of issue; 4) A $20 fee (in cash) for a five-year

license, or a $35 fee for a 10-year license. Licenses

are issued through the Georgia Department of

Driver Services at several sites across Atlanta. Call

678-413-8400 or visit www.dds.ga.gov.

Car TagYou must register your car within 30 days of

residency. Bring with you the following information:

1) Car title, name and address of lienholder, or copy

of lease agreement; 2) Current tag registration; 3)

Mileage reading of vehicle; 4) Proof of insurance;

5) Emission certificate (if applicable).

There is an approximate $20 fee for your

tag. In January 2006, the state began charging

sales tax on vehicles. Your tag office will

MARTA

HERE THEREGETTING STARTED

MARTA Rail Service

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NEED TO KNOWGETTING STARTED

provide the amount of sales tax on your vehicle.

For information on a specific county, contact the

county’s Tax Commissioner’s Office.

Vehicle Emission InspectionVehicles dating from 1985 through 2006 model

year must be checked each

year for emission standard

compliance. Visit a state-

designated inspection

station for the service.

Call 800-449-2471 or visit

www.cleanairforce.com.

Driving TipsGeorgia 400 is the only toll road in Atlanta. If

you travel it daily, obtaining a Cruise Card is

recommended. Purchased in advance, the Cruise

Card allows drivers to bypass the tollbooth and

avoid long lines. Call 404-893-6161 or visit www.

georgiatolls.com to purchase a card.

The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road

work, road closings and traffic delays, which are

helpful when commuting. Updates can be obtained

by calling (toll free) 1-877-694-2511, by dialing 511,

or by visiting www.georgia-navigator.com.

Voter RegistrationRegistration applies to U.S. citizens at least 18

years of age. You have up to 30 days before an

election to register. Register at your local Voter

Registration Office and most public libraries. Refer

to the AT&T directory for locations, or download a

registration form at www.sos.georgia.gov.

Making a Phone CallAll phone numbers in the

Metro Atlanta area

include the area code

plus the seven-

digit number.

To make a phone call, dial one

of the three area codes (404, 770, 678) and the

seven-digit number. In general, the 404 area

code is designated for intown areas, the 770

area code for suburbs, and the 678 area code is

normally used for cell phones, fax numbers and

some suburbs.

Registering for SchoolBy law, children must be 5 years old

on or before September 1 to enter

kindergarten and 6 years old on or before

September 1 to enter the first grade. To enroll

your child in either kindergarten or first grade,

you will need to provide the child’s social

security number; a vision, hearing, and dental

screening from a family practitioner or local

health clinic; and immunization records on

Georgia State Form 3231.

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COUNTY INFORMATIONEDUCATION Cherokee Countypublic ScHOOlS

Cherokee County SchoolsBoard of Education 770-479-1871

Elementary Schools 22Middle Schools 7Intermediate Schools 1High Schools 6Alternative 1Evening 1Per-pupil expenditures $8,578School & bus information: 770-720-2112

Avg. SAT Scores Cherokee Co. 1560Georgia 1460National 1509

pRivATE ScHOOlSVisit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

HOME SERvicES

Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222

ElEcTRiciTy

Amicalola EMC 706-276-2362Cobb EMC 770-429-2100Georgia Power 888-660-5890

Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363

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

TElEpHONE

AT&T 888-436-8638ETC Communications 678-454-1212TDS Telecom-Nelson Ball Ground 770-735-2000

Windstream 800-501-1754

WATER

Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123City of Canton 770-704-1500City of Waleska 770-479-2912

City of Woodstock 770-926-8852

cAblE Tv

Charter Communications 888-438-2427

Comcast 404-266-2278

ETC Communications 678-454-1212

HOSpiTAlSNorthside Hospital-Cherokee 770-720-5100

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

QUICK INFO

Located northwest of Atlanta,

Cherokee County gets its name from

the original inhabitants of the area, the

Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then

called Etowah, was established in 1833

and renamed Canton in 1834. Today,

the city is enjoying its greatest economic

boom in its history since more than

$60 million was invested in residential

and commercial development in 1998.

Despite developing its own industrial

base, Cherokee County remains idyllic

and serene. Farming, especially poultry

processing, remains a leading industry.

Canton and the neighboring

community of Woodstock have seen

tremendous growth as subdivisions

crop up to accommodate newcomers.

In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s

population are commuters. According

to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median

value of homes in 2006 was $194,900.

Homes for well over $1 million can be

purchased in such neighborhoods as

Bradshaw Farms, Bridge Mill and Town

Lake Hills.

Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway

92 traverse the county, affording

residents easy access to Atlanta and the

nearby attractions of Town Center Mall,

Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia

Mountains. Other great places to live,

work and play in Cherokee County

include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly

Springs and Waleska.

Neighborhoods

CantonCanton was incorporated in 1833

and renamed in 1834 at the request

of two founding fathers who had

visions that the town might become a

silk center similar to what existed in

Canton, China. Canton did become

famous for its “Canton Denim,” known

worldwide for the high-quality denim

produced by Canton Cotton Mills.

Today, Canton is attracting new

industry and residents. As a result, the

city is re-investing in its downtown.

As part of its “Streetscapes” program,

downtown Canton will be restored to

its historic look and features a newly

designed theater on Main Street.

Located at the foothills of the Blue

Ridge Mountains and along the banks

of the Etowah River, Canton is prime

location for development.

WoodstockTwelve miles south of Canton,

Woodstock is the fastest-growing

city in Cherokee County. With a

growth rate of 70 percent over the

past 10 years, the city has doubled in

size. Residents enjoy easy access to

Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92,

allowing short commutes to Cobb

and Fulton counties.

While affording convenience

to big-city attractions, Woodstock

still maintains its small-town appeal.

Buildings dating back to 1879

characterize the downtown, where

antique and other specialty shops are

located.

Various golf courses are located

in Woodstock, including Arnold

Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with

wooded countryside views that is con-

sidered to be one of the top places to

play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake

Allatoona provides additional recre-

ation. Woodstock is also convenient to

more than 13 state parks.

Cagle Dairy Farm, Canton

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N

county www.cherokeega.comNeighborhoods www.canton-georgia.com www.woodstockga.gov www.cityofballground.com www.hollyspringsga.us www.cityofwaleska.comSchools www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Median household income: $63,518 Median age of residents: 34Population: 210,529 Sales tax: 6%

chamber of commerce Cherokee County 770-345-0400, www.cherokeechamber.com

property TaxesPer $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $26.80; Incorporated Cherokee County, $24.06. Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400


Life in Clayton County revolves

around transportation, much like it

did when the Central Railroad passed

through the county seat of Jonesboro

carrying goods and people.

Today, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson

International Airport employs more than

35,000 people, one-third of whom

live in Clayton County. Many

of the county’s almost 267,000

residents have lived in the area

for generations. Unlike in other

Metro Atlanta counties, nearly

half of them also work in the

county.

Just 15 miles south of

downtown Atlanta, Clayton

County, one of the smallest

counties in Georgia, offers

residents many natural re-

treats, including the Reyn-

olds Nature Preserve, the

Newman Wetlands Center,

Lake Blalock and Lake Sham-

rock. The county also boasts

several private and pub-

lic golf courses. World-renowned

Spivey Hall, located on the campus

of Clayton State University, attracts

acclaimed performers and is one

of the world’s foremost acoustical

facilities. The 2006 median value

of homes, according to the Census

Bureau, was $133,700. Million-

dollar homes can be found in the

Lake Spivey area.

Neighborhoods

JonesboroClayton County is steeped in

history, especially Jonesboro, the

fictional setting for Margaret

Mitchell’s legendary Civil War

novel, Gone With the Wind. In truth,

the farming community of Jonesboro

was all but destroyed in the decisive

Battle of Jonesboro.

Today, this community of more

than 4,000 residents maintains its

small-town atmosphere despite its

proximity to Atlanta and major free-

ways. Jonesboro’s Main

Street buildings, some

dating back to the

mid-1800s, have been

renovated and now

house antique shops,

gift shops and government

offices.

Many residential

homes have also been restored,

including the historic Ashley Oaks

Mansion (1879) and Stately Oaks

(1939). Open to the public, these

antebellum gems transport visitors to

the Gone With the Wind era.

MorrowA passenger traveling north

from Jonesboro to Atlanta in the

mid-1800s would have invariably

passed through a small farm-

ing community known as

Morrow Station. Once de-

picted as “the whistle stop”

south of Atlanta, today Mor-

row is a booming city of more

than 5,000 residents with

a thriving industrial, com-

mercial and retail base that

includes Morrow Industrial

Park and Southlake Mall.

COUNTY INFORMATION

public ScHOOlSClayton County SchoolsBoard of Education 770-473-2700

Elementary Schools 36Middle Schools 14High Schools 10Charter 3Alternative 2Per-pupil expenditures $8,146School & bus information 770-473-2835

Avg. SAT Scores Clayton Co. 1273Georgia 1460National 1509


ElEcTRiciTy

Central GA EMC 880-897-0671

Georgia Power Company 770-395-7611


TElEpHONE

AT&T 888-436-8638Ultimate Security of America, Inc. 770-460-5722

WATERClayton County Water Authority 770-961-2130

cAblE Tv

Comcast 800-266-2278

HOSpiTAlS

Southern Crescent Hospital for Specialty Care 770-897-7600

Southern Regional Medical Center 404-699-8586

South Fulton Medical Center 404-466-1170

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

Clayton County

county www.co.clayton.ga.usNeighborhoods www.cityofmorrow.com www.jonesboroga.comSchools www.clayton.k12.ga.us

Median household income: $43,674Median age of residents: 32Population: 273,718Sales Tax: 7%

chamber of commerceClayton County678-610-4021, www.claytonchamber.org

property TaxesThe property tax rate is $32.52 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-477-3311

QUICK INFO

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at

www.newcomeratlanta.com

EDUCATION

Stately Oaks quilt show

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COUNTY INFORMATION

public ScHOOlSCobb County SchoolsBoard of Education 770-426-3300

Elementary Schools 71Middle Schools 25High Schools 16Magnet 6Charter 6Special 4Per-pupil expenditures $8,816

Marietta City SchoolsBoard of Education 770-422-3500

Elementary Schools 7Middle Schools 1High Schools 1Sixth-Grade 1Magnet 1Per-pupil expenditures $9,061 School and bus information 678-594-8000

Avg. SAT ScoresCobb Co. 1534Marietta City 1514Georgia 1460National 1509


HOME SERvicES

Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222

ElEcTRiciTyAcworth Power 770-974-5233Cobb EMC 770-429-2100Georgia Power 888-660-5890GreyStone Power Corp. 770-942-6576Marietta Power/Columbia Energy 770-794-5100


TElEpHONEAT&T 888-436-8638Comcast 404-266-2278MCI Worldcom 770-541-7235Outside Georgia 800-356-3094

WATERAustell Water 770-944-4300Cobb County Water Systems 770-423-1000Marietta Water 770-794-5100Powder Springs Water 770-943-8000Smyrna Water 770-319-5338

cAblE TvBellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000Charter Communications 888-438-2427 Comcast 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlSEmory Adventist Hospital 770-434-0710WellStar Cobb Hospital 770-732-4000WellStar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000WellStar Windy Hill Hospital 770-644-1000

EDUCATION

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

White Water

QUICK INFO


Photo: G

eorgia Dept. of E

conomic D

evelopment

Cobb County came

into being in 1832 when

the state redistributed land

once part of the Cherokee

Nation. Named after Thomas

Welch Cobb, the county

experienced a devastating

setback during the Civil

War when most of it was

destroyed during the Battle

at Kennesaw Mountain.

Today, Cobb County,

located north of Fulton

County, is one of the fast-

est-growing counties in the

nation. With a diverse eco-

nomic base that includes

jobs in the service, retail,

aerospace and technology

sectors, Cobb County offers

a quality of life unsurpassed

in the Southeast. More than

$770 million has been spent on

transportation improvements in re-

cent years, allowing residents easy

access to Atlanta and the commer-

cial districts of Vinings Overlook,

Cumberland Parkway and the pres-

tigious “Platinum Triangle” in the

Galleria area.

A variety of housing options ex-

ist in Cobb County, including luxury

apartments and condos near Cum-

berland Mall, secluded subdivisions

in East Cobb and horse ranches in

the northwest corner of the county.

The small towns of Marietta, Vin-

ings, Smyrna and Austell still retain

their Southern charm amidst urban

settings. According to the Census

Bureau, the median value of homes

in 2006 was $205,200.

Neighborhoods

Kennesaw One of Family Circle maga-

zine’s “Ten Best Towns for Fami-

lies,” Kennesaw takes pride in its

small-town atmosphere and boasts

abundant parks and green space,

exceptional recreational programs

and top-notch schools, includ-

ing Kennesaw State University.

Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown

features shopping, dining and at-

tractions such as the Smithsonian-

affiliated Southern Museum of

Civil War and Locomotive History,

the Smith-Gilbert Arboretum and

nearby Kennesaw Mountain Na-

tional Battlefield Park.

SmyrnaRapidly defining what’s new

and progressive in quality of life

and citizen services, Smyrna

delivers an amazing sense of style

and love of life. The new Market

Village, home to fabulous restaurants,

bars and upscale shops and services,

is the final piece of a master plan for

success. Call it “Main Street USA” or

“Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its

charm and ability to offer the best in

fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N

Cobb Countycounty www.cobbcountyga.govNeighborhoods www.austellga.org www.mariettaga.gov www.ci.smyrna.ga.us www.kennesaw-ga.gov www.cityofpowdersprings.org

Schools www.cobb.k12.ga.us www.marietta-city.org

Median household income: $65,123 Median age of residents: 35Population: 698,158Sales tax: 6%

chamber of commerceCobb County 770-980-2000, www.cobbchamber.org

property TaxesThe property tax is $28.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000


DeKalb County

QUICK INFO


Located east of Fulton Coun-

ty, DeKalb County is the second

largest county in the state with

a population of about 705,000.

DeKalb County contributes to

At lanta’s status as an “ inter-

national city” with its businesses

and residences representing more

than 30 different countries and 120

languages.

DeKalb County pros-

pers in part due to its ex-

cellent transportation sys-

tem. Five major road ar-

teries traverse the county:

Interstates 20, 85, 285,

675 and US Highway 78.

Hartsfield-Jackson Inter-

national Airport is only six

miles from DeKalb’s south-

ern border and the DeKalb

Peachtree Airport, a gener-

al aviation field, is report-

ed to be the second busiest

airport in Georgia. DeKalb

County is also a leader in

the biomedical commu-

nity with The Center for

Disease Control headquar-

tered there.

The median value of homes in

2006, according to the Census Bu-

reau, was $190,100.

Neighborhoods

DecaturAs the county seat,

Decatur revolves around

the Courthouse Square. In

recent years, the square has

undergone a renaissance

as small storefront mo-

tifs have been preserved, attracting

unique shopping, entertainment and

dining that includes By Hand South,

Square Roots, Eddie’s Attic, Water-

shed and Supper Club. The square

also plays host to numerous festivals,

town celebrations and neighborhood

parties.

Decatur is home to a diverse

population, attracting young profes-

sionals, families and retirees. With

Agnes Scott College, a presti-

gious women’s college, and

just outside the city limits,

Emory University, De-

catur is a college

town amidst a

big city. Older

brick homes, small-

er bungalows and cot-

tage homes distinguish

the community and the

surrounding neighborhoods

of Avondale Estates, Oakhurst

and Candler Park.

DunwoodyIn the northern corner

of the county is Dunwoody, a

popular neighborhood among

established professionals and

young, upwardly mobile pro-

fessionals raising families.

It is often referred to as

the “tennis set” neighborhood

because of its numerous recre-

ational outlets that include Lyn-

wood Park and Recreation Cen-

ter, as well as Blackburn Park

and Tennis Center. Cultural

attractions include the Dun-

woody Nature Center and the

Spruill Gallery.

A variety of housing is

available in Dunwoody, includ-

ing apartments, townhomes,

ranch-style homes, bungalows

and mini-mansions with mani-

cured lawns. Nearby Perimeter

Mall provides shopping, dining

and family entertainment. With

its proximity to all major ex-

pressways and North Fulton’s

booming business opportuni-

ties, Dunwoody is a hot-spot

for families.

county www.co.dekalb.ga.usNeighborhoods www.decaturga.com www.druidhills.org www.dunwoodyga.org www.candlerpark.org www.stonemountaincity.org

Schools www.dekalb.k12.ga.us www.csdecatur.net

Median household income: $51,753Median age of residents: 35Population: 739,956Sales tax: 7%

chamber of commerceDeKalb County404-378-8000, www.dekalbchamber.org

property TaxesThe property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for unincorporated DeKalb County. Tax Commissioner: 404-298-4000

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public ScHOOlSDeKalb County SchoolsBoard of Education 678-676-1200

Elementary Schools 83Middle Schools 20High Schools 20Per-pupil expenditures $9,896 School & bus information 678-676-1300

City Schools of DecaturBoard of Education 404-370-4400

Early Learning 1Elementary Schools 4Middle Schools 1High Schools 1Per-pupil expenditures $13,444 School & bus information 404-370-8737

Avg. SAT Scores DeKalb Co. 1334City of Decatur 1577Georgia 1460National 1509


ElEcTRiciTy

Georgia Power 404-395-7611

Snapping Shoals EMC 770-786-3484

Walton EMC 770-972-2917


TElEpHONE

AT&T 888-436-8638

Bellsouth 404-780-2355

WATER

DeKalb County Water System 770-621-7200

cAblE Tv

Charter Communication 877-728-3121

Comcast Cablevision 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlS

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston 404-785-6000

DeKalb Medical Center 404-501-1000

Emory University Hospital 404-712-2000

Piedmont Hospital and Medical Care Center 404-605-5000

EDUCATION

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

N

COUNTY INFORMATION


public ScHOOlSFulton County SchoolsBoard of Education 404-768-3600

Elementary Schools 58Middle Schools 19High Schools 16Charter 6Per-pupil expenditures $9,746

Atlanta City Schools 404-802-3500

Elementary Schools 55Middle Schools 16High Schools 22Charter 7Non-Traditional 2Per-pupil expenditures: $13,710School & bus information: 404-753-9815

Avg. SAT Scores Atlanta (City) 1285Fulton Co. 1584Georgia 1460National 1509


HOME SERvicESCobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222

ElEcTRiciTyCity of College Park 404-669-3772City of East Point 404-270-7093 City of Fairburn 770-964-2244City of Palmetto 770-463-3377Georgia Power Company 404-395-7611GreyStone Power Corp. 770-942-6576Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363


TElEpHONEAT&T 888-436-8638Outside Georgia 800-356-3094

WATERFulton County 404-730-6830

cAblE TvCharter Communications 877-728-3121 Comcast 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlSAtlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011Children’s Healthcare ofAtlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-5252Emory Crawford Long Hospital 404-686-2513Fulton County Health Dept. 404-730-1211Grady Memorial Hospital 404-616-4307North Fulton Regional Hospital 770-751-2500Northside Hospital 404-851-8000Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000Shepherd Center 404-352-2020South Fulton Medical Center 404-466-1170St. Joseph’s Hospital 404-851-7001

EDUCATION

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

Fulton County

QUICK INFO

Photo: G

eorgia Dept. of E

conomic D

evelopment.

At the center of the Metro At-

lanta area is Fulton County. Bor-

dered on the west by the Chatta-

hoochee River and encompassing

Interstates 85, 75, 285 and Ga.

400, Fulton County is at the hub

of the area’s financial, transporta-

tion, retail, communications and

cultural services. Most Fortune 500

corporations maintain national or

regional facilities in the area; many

are headquartered here, including

Coca-Cola, Equifax, United Parcel

Service, Home Depot, Delta Airlines

and Turner Broadcasting System.

More than 3 million live and

work in Fulton County. Older, inner-

city neighborhoods, such as Inman

Park, Candler Park and trendy Virgin-

ia-Highland offer eclectic living

amidst unique boutiques and

restaurants. Midtown is at the

heart of the city’s cultural life,

home to the Atlanta Symphony

Orchestra, High Museum of Art,

Alliance Theatre and the historic

Fox Theatre. Many outdoor fes-

tivals are held at Piedmont Park.

According to the Census Bu-

reau, the median value of homes

in 2006 was $270,000. Homes

in the millions can be found in

such affluent neighborhoods as

Buckhead, Sandy Springs and

Alpharetta.

Neighborhoods

BuckheadConsidered Atlanta’s “silk

stocking district,” Buckhead is

“where old money lives and new

money parties,” according to

the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

With its one-of-a-kind Georgian

and Neoclassical mansions and

uniquely styled homes from the

1950s and 1960s, Buckhead is

a favorite locale among architecture

and history buffs. It is home to the

Governor’s Mansion, the historic

Swan House and the Atlanta History

Center.

Buckhead is also the

epicenter for the city’s enter-

tainment and dining industries.

With more than 200 restaurants,

luxury hotels and night-

spots, it has long been

a young professional’s

paradise. The area also

offers numerous antique

stores, art galleries and

mall shopping at Le-

nox Square and

Phipps Plaza.

AlpharettaOnce a small farming commu-

nity, Alpharetta has boomed within

the last 20 years to become one of At-

lanta’s most affluent neigh-

borhoods. Homes range

from elegant subdivisions

to those with acreage.

The Country Club of the

South is a planned com-

munity home to several

sports stars, high profile

executives and celebrities.

A successful combi-

nation of old and new,

Alpharetta has become a

haven for singles, families

and professionals want-

ing a bit of country living

with all the amenities that

city dwelling offers. While

many residents shop

at nearby Northpoint

Mall and Gwinnett Mall,

many still enjoy the old

stores on Main Street—

a visit to the Alpharetta

Soda Shoppe is a special

treat. N

Downtown Atlanta skyline


county www.co.fulton.ga.usNeighborhoods www.alpharetta.ga.us www.buckhead.net www.virginiahighland.com www.eastpointcity.org www.collegeparkga.com www.hapeville.org www.ci.roswell.ga.us www.sandyspringsga.orgSchools www.fultonschools.org www.atlanta.k12.ga.us

Median household income: $57,586 Median age of residents: 35Population: 963,676Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8%

chamber of commerceGreater North Fulton770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.comMetro Atlanta404-880-9000, www.metroatlantachamber.comSouth Fulton 770-964-1984, www.sfcoc.org

property TaxesThe property tax rate per $1,000 is: $30.49 for the City of Atlanta; $28.03 for incorporated Fulton County; $33.69 for unincorporated South Fulton and $31.90 for unincorporated North Fulton County County. Tax Commissioner: 404-730-6100

COUNTY INFORMATION


public ScHOOlSGwinnett County SchoolsBoard of Education: 678-301-6000

Elementary Schools 72Middle Schools 24High Schools 20Alternative 6Open Campus 1Per-pupil expenditures: $8,338

City Schools of BufordBoard of Education: 770-945-5035

Elementary Schools 1Middle Schools 1High Schools 1Academy 1Per-pupil expenditures $10,198

Avg. SAT Scores Gwinnett Co. 1526City of Buford 1455Georgia 1460National 1509


ElEcTRiciTy

City of Buford 770-945-6761City of Lawrenceville 770-963-2414City of Norcross 770-448-2122Georgia Power 404-395-7611Jackson EMC 770-963-6166Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363Walton EMC 770-972-2917

GAS

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

TElEpHONE

AT&T 888-436-8638

WATER

Buford 770-889-4600Dacula 770-963-7451Gwinnett City Water 678-376-6800Lawrenceville 770-963-2414Norcross 770-448-2122

cAblE Tv

Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000


Comcast 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlS

Emory Eastside Medical Center 770-736-2400

Joan Glancy Memorial Hospital 678-584-6800

Gwinnett Medical Center 678-312-4321

Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 678-312-4770Summit Ridge Center for Behavorial Health 770-822-2200

EDUCATION

UTILITIES &CONTACTS

QUICK INFO

Gwinnett CountyP

hoto

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rgia

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opm

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Originally part of Georgia’s

Native American territory, Gwinnett

County was created by the State

Legislature in 1818 and named after

Button Gwinnett, the third signer of

the Declaration of Independence and

a former state governor.

While the county was

once largely rural with small

towns, country stores, farms

and forests, today it is home to

more than 245 international

companies and 450 high-tech

firms. With an average of 260

new professional and industrial

companies relocating to the

county each year, attracting more

than 6,000 new jobs, Gwinnett

County remains in the top 10

ranking for growth nationwide.

The county supports many

cultural events, restaurants

and shopping opportunities,

including the Mall of Georgia.

Gwinnett County remains

affordable for renters and first-time

home buyers, many of whom find

homes in the communities of Doraville,

Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median

value of homes in 2006, according to

the Census Bureau, was $193,100.

Neighborhoods

DuluthAmidst the pristine setting of

Gwinnett County, Duluth has some

of the most exclusive neighborhoods

in Metro Atlanta and is home to

some of the best golf courses and

private tennis clubs. There are

numerous parks for recreation and

participatory sports, including

Bunten Road Park and “Shorty”

Howell Park. Two major malls,

Gwinnett Place and Northpoint,

are located near Duluth. The

Southeastern Railway Museum,

which preserves and operates old

railroad equipment, is a must-see

for any railroad aficionado.

Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods

include Edgewater Estates, Sweet

Bottom Plantation, and Riverbrooke.

Affluent estates with antebellum

architecture can be found as well as

apartment communities, older brick,

ranch-style homes and subdivisions.

Duluth still retains some of its original

small-town businesses, along with

chain businesses, many accessible by

Ga. 400 and I-85.

SuwaneeSuwanee is named after the

Shawnee Indians who settled here

in the latter part of the 18th century.

Following the official founding of

the city in 1837, Suwanee became

a railroad stop along the Southern

Railroad route. It remained a small

country town well into the ’70s when

construction of I-85 and U.S. 23

brought easy access to the region.

Since then, Suwanee has ex-

perienced tremendous

growth, from 2,000 resi-

dents in 1990 to more

than 10,000 today. To

help manage growth,

the city has developed

a comprehensive develop-

ment plan that promotes

pedestr ian-oriented de-

velopment and mixed-

use zoning. Designated

a Tree City USA for more

than 10 years, the city

is committed to preserving

27 percent of its land as

green space.

Such foresight has

allowed Suwanee to retain

its old-fashioned charm

while providing contem-

porary convenience. Only 35 miles

from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is

close to big-city attractions, business

districts and shopping. Many an-

tique shops and historic structures,

including several Victorian and re-

gional farm-style homes, are located

near downtown Suwanee. N

county www.co.gwinnett.ga.usNeighborhoods www.cityofbuford.com www.duluthga.net www.snellville.org www.suwanee.comSchools www.bufordcityschools.org www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us

Median household income: $64,005Median age of residents: 33Population: 789,499Sales tax: 6%

chamber of commerceGwinnett County770-232-3000, www.gwinnettchamber.org

property TaxesThe property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $31.77 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.

COUNTY INFORMATION

Mall of Georgia


Named after Patrick Henry,

orator from the Revolutionary

War, Henry County is one of 17

counties created from the Creek

Indian land secessions. The

county is known as the “Mother

of Counties” because much of

its land was taken to develop

surrounding counties, including

Fulton, DeKalb and Clayton.

Today Henry County is

made up of the cit ies of

McDonough, Stockbridge,

Locust Grove and Hampton.

It is one of the fastest-growing

counties in Metro Atlanta with

more than 198,000 residents.

The county continues to flour-

ish as a major industrial and retail

center. Tanger Outlet Center in

Locust Grove is a favorite attraction

among Atlanta’s shoppers.

Henry County is known best,

however, as the home of Atlanta Mo-

tor Speedway and Eagle’s Landing

Country Club. Located in the county

since 1959, the speedway attracts

people from all over the state for

its two annual NASCAR races.

Eagle’s Landing in Stockbridge

hosts the LPGA Chick-fil-A Char-

ity Championship.

With the county’s rich resources

and convenience to I-75, housing

has continued at a steady growth

with such planned developments

as Heron Bay Golf & Country

Club and Crown Ridge cropping

up everywhere. The median value

of homes in 2008 was $150,189,

making Henry County a very

affordable place to live.

Neighborhoods

McDonoughIncorporated in 1823, McDon-

ough was named after Commodore

McDonough of the War of 1812

and is the county seat. Many historic

structures with architecture dating

back to the 1800s can be seen in and

around McDonough’s town square.

McDonough, in an effort to bring

its residents a sense of communi-

ty, created its Main Street Pro-

gram, which revital-

ized its Main Street.

Today, the street is

not only home to

intimate boutiques

and family-friendly res-

taurants, it is also home to a

variety of free community events

throughout the year on the town

square, including Music on the Square

summer concerts, Santa on

the Square at Christmas,

classic car shows and chili

cook-offs.

StockbridgeHost of the LPGA

Chick-fil-A Charity Cham-

pionship each year in April,

Stockbridge is a golfer’s par-

adise. Eagle’s Landing, the

community surrounding

the 18-hole Eagle’s Land-

ing golf course, is home to

some of the most beautiful

and exclusive neighbor-

hoods south of Atlanta. The

51,000-square-foot, planta-

tion-style clubhouse on the property

exemplifies Georgian charm. Home

prices range from the hundred-

thousands to the millions.

Incorporated in 1920, Stock-

bridge began as a settlement in

1829 and celebrates its heri-

tage each May with Ole’ Stock-

bridge Days. N

QUICK INFO

public ScHOOlSHenry County Schools Board of Education 770-957-6601

Elementary Schools 29Middle Schools 12High Schools 10Alternative 1Per-pupil expenditures $7,910 School & bus information 770-957-2025

Avg. SAT Score Henry Co. 1410Georgia 1460National 1509


ElEcTRiciTyCentral Georgia EMC 770-775-7857

Georgia Power 770-395-7611

Snapping Shoals EMC 770-786-3484

GAS

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

TElEpHONEAT&T 888-436-8638

WATER

City of Hampton 770-946-4306

City of Stockbridge 770-389-7900

Henry County Water System 770-957-6659

Locust Grove 770-957-5043

McDonough 770-957-3915

cAblE Tv


Comcast 404-266-2278

HOSpiTAlS

Henry Medical Center 678-604-1000

Southern Regional Medical Center 770-991-8000

Sylvan Grove Hospital 770-775-7861

EDUCATION

UTILITIES &CONTACTS


McDonough’s town square

Henry Countycounty www.co.henry.ga.usNeighborhoods www.cityofstockbridge.comSchools www.henry.K12.ga.us

Median household income: $63,395Median age of residents: 32Population: 191,502 Sales tax: 7%

chamber of commerceHenry County 770-957-5786, www.henrycounty.com

property TaxesThe property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is $37.51 for unincorporated Henry County. Tax Commissioner: 770-288-8180

COUNTY INFORMATION

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Rockbridge Rd

Decatur Rd

Rock Spri ngs Rd

Reden Rd

Rainbow Dr

Snapfinger Rd

River Rd

River Rd

Panth

ersv

illeRd

Bouldercrest Rd

Ward Lake Rd

BouldercrestRd

Anvil Block Rd

FlakesMillRd

WesleyChapelRd

Flat Shoals Rd

Sullivan RdBuffington Rd

Flat Shoals Rd

Welcom

e All R

d

Scarborough Rd WelcomeAllRd

Thaxton Rd

Old Fairburn

Rd

Fairb

urnR

d

Butner Rd

Kim

berly

Rd

Benjamin E. Mays Dr

Bou lde r Park Dr

Defoor Ferry

Rd

Moores Mill Rd

Ridg

e woo

dRd W. Paces Ferry Rd

Pa ces Ferry Rd

Wesley Rd

Wesley Rd

Oakdale

Rd

Cooper Lake Rd

Spring Rd

Powers Ferry Rd

Lower Roswell Rd

OldCantonRd

Paper Mill Rd

Johnson Ferry Rd

Glenridge Dr

Glenridge Dr

Mt. ParanRd

Dalrymple Rd

River

side D

r

Mt. Vernon Hwy

Northside Dr

Powers Ferry Dr

Dunwoody Club Dr

Mt. Vernon Hwy

Spalding Dr

Spalding Dr

Chamblee-TuckerRd

C hamblee-Tucker Rd

Winters Chapel Rd

Oakcliff RdPleasantdaleRd

Henderson Rd

Brocket

t Rd

N. IndianCreek Dr

S. IndianCreek Dr

Hend erso

nM

illRd

Briarcliff Rd

OakG

rove R

d

B riarlake Rd

Shall

owfor

d Rd

New Peachtree Rd

Tilly M i ll RdPeeler Rd

Peachfor

d Rd

Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd

Peachtree Rd

Cham

blee-Dunwoody Rd

Johnson Ferry Rd

Clair

mont

Rd

Ashford-DunwoodyRd

PeachtreeDunwoody Rd

Peac

htree

Dunw

oody

Rd

Windsor Pkwy

N. Druid Hills Rd

Roxboro Rd

Lindbergh Dr

Clifton Rd

Concord

Rd

Flat Shoals Pkwy

Flat Shoals Av

Bouldercrest Rd

Constitution Rd C lifton

Churc

hRd

Clifto n Springs Rd

Colum

biaDr

Browns

Mill

Rd

Cleveland Av

Sylva

n Rd

Ashb

yAs

hby S

t

Simpson St

Hersc

hellR

d

WashingtonRd

Headland Rd

Seme

s St

Campbellton Rd

Fa

irb

urn

Rd

Boule

vard

McDonough Bl

Dodso

nDr

Hollywood Rd

Perry Rd

Marietta St

Howell Mill Rd

Pied

mont

Av

Monr

oeDr

Panola Rd Fairview Rd

LowerRo

swell

Rd Barn well R

d

Spalding DrAllgo

odRd

Piedmont R d

India n Hills Dr

Canto

n Rd

Chur

ch S

tCh

erok

ee S

t

Cobb Pkwy

Atlanta Rd

Cobb Pkwy

Oakdale Rd

S. Cobb DrJames JacksonPkwy

Peyto

n Rd

Bankhead Hwy

Bankhead HwyNorth Av

North

side D

r

Rosw

ell R

d

Rosw

ellRd

Peac

htree

Rd

Peachtree Rd

Stew

art A

vSt

ewar

t Av

Lee S

t

Main

St

Rooseve

lt Hwy

Roosevelt Hwy

Camp Creek Pkwy

Camp Creek Pkwy

Central Av

Clar

k How

ellHw

y

Jonesboro Rd

Jonesboro Rd

Macon Hwy

Moreland Av

More

land A

vBri

arcliff

Rd

Covington Hwy

Avondale Rd

College Av

E. Ponce de Leon Av

W. Ponce de Leon Av

Lawrenceville

Hwy

Lawr

ence

ville Hwy

Ponce de Leon Av

Dekalb Av

Decatur St

Scott

Bl

Buford

Hwy

Peac

htree

Pkw

y

Buford

Hwy

Buford

Hwy

Clairmont Rd

Flat Shoals Pkwy

Candler Rd

Forest Pkwy

Thurm

ondRd

Main St

Crown Rd

Old Nation alHwy

Piedmont Rd

Marietta Bl

Atlanta Rd

S. Cobb Dr

Delk Rd

S. Cobb Dr

Hugh Howell Rd

Briarcliff R

dNorthside Pkwy

Freedom Pkwy

Holcomb Bridge Rd

Jimmy Carter Bl

Jim

my Carter BlN. Hairston

RdS. Hairston Dr

Peac

htree

St

Memorial Dr

Memorial D

r

Memorial Dr

Roswell R

d

Peachtree Industrial Bl

Glenwood AvGlenwood Av

Beaver Run Rd

La Vista Rd

La Vista Rd

Old Dixie Rd

Riverdale

R d

Riverdale Rd

Fayetteville Rd

South Fulton Pkwy

Cambellton R d

Cascade Rd

Cascade Rd

Fulton

Indust

rial Bl

Bolton Rd

Mableton Pkwy

Martin Luther King

Jr Dr

Martin Luther King Jr Dr

Abernathy Bl

Riverside Pkwy

Marietta Pkwy

Marietta PkwyMa

rietta

Pkwy

Austell

Rd

South

Expw

ySo

uthEx

pwy

Lakewood Fwy

North Expwy

Northwest Expwy

Northeast Expwy

Northea

st Exp

wy

Laryy McDonald Fwy

Stone Mountain FwyMc

Dona

ldPk

wy

MURPHYCANDLER

PARK

CHATTAHOOCHEERIVER NAT'LREC AREA




MORGANFALLS PARK

CHASTAINMEMORIAL

PARK

MASONHILL PARK

PIEDMONTPARK

MADDOXPARK

GRANTPARK

WHITEPARK

CASCADE SPRINGSNAT. PRESERVE

ADAMSPARK

LAKEWOODPARK

SOUTHBENDPARK

SOUTHSIDEPARK

CHATTAHOOCHEE

RIVER NAT'L

REC AREA

BullSluiceLake

ChattahoocheeRiver

Chattaho

ochee River

Chattahoochee River

OGLETHORPEUNIVERSITY

EMORYUNIVERSITY

GEORGIATECH

FORTMC PHERSON

DEKALBPEACHTREE

AIRPORTMERCER

UNIVERSITYOF ATLANTA

HARTSFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA

INTERNATIONALAIRPORT

FORTGILLEM

DOBBINSAIR FORCE

BASE

ATLANTAFARMER'SMARKET

ATLANTAJR. COLLEGE

UNITEDSTATESPENITENTIARY

GEORGIANAT'LGUARD

SPELMANCOLLEGE

WORLDCONGRESS

CENTER

JIMMY CARTERPRESIDENTIALLIBRARY

MARTINLUTHERKING JR.

NATIONALHIST. SITEGSU

MOOREHOUSECOLLEGE

TURNERFIELD

ZOOATLANTA

DEKALBCOMM.COLLEGE

AGNESSCOTTCOLLEGE

SOUTHDEKALB

MALL

GOVERNOR'SMANSION

LENOXSQUARE

PHIPPSPLAZA

ATLANTAHISTORYCENTER

PERIMETERMALL

NORTHLAKEMALL

NORTHSIDEHOSPITAL

SOUTHERNPOLYTECHNICSTATE UNIV.

NATIONALCEMETERY

WHITE WATER &AMERICANADVENTURESPARKS

CUMBERLANDMALL

SIX FLAGSOVER GEORGIA

GREENBRIARMALL

VININGS

OAKDALE

BUCKHEAD

SCOTTDALE

DRUID

HILLSVIRGINIA

HIGHLAND

MIDTOWN

CENTER

HILL DOWNTOWN

MECHANICS-

VILLE

ADAMS

PARK

SANDY

SPRINGS

BERKELEY

LAKE

CHATTAHOOCHEE

PLANTATION

FAIR

OAKS

MARIETTA

SMYRNA

CHAMBLEE

DUNWOODY

ROSWELL

DORAVILLE

NORCROSS

DULUTH

CLARKSTON

AVONDALE

ESTATES

GRESHAM

PARK

DECATUR

FOREST

PARK

RIVERDALE

HAPEVILLE

COLLEGE

PARK

EAST

POINT

LAKECITY ELLENWOOD

BROOKHAVEN

TUCKER

ATLANTA

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A b c D E F

1. Atlanta History Center C-32. Botanical Gardens C-43. Civic Center C-44. CNN Center C-55. Cyclorama C-56. Fernbank Museum & Science Center D-47. Georgia Aquarium C-58. Georgia State Capitol C-59. Governor’s Mansion C-310. High Museum of Art C-411. Jimmy Carter Center & Library D-512. Margaret Mitchell House C-413. Oakland Cemetery C-514. Six Flags over Georgia A-415. Underground Atlanta C-516. Woodruff Arts Center C-417. Zoo Atlanta D-5

18. Cumberland Mall B-319. Greenbriar Mall A-620 Gwinnett Place F-121. Lenox Square D-322. Market Square Mall E-423. Northlake Mall F-324. Peachtree Center C-525. Perimeter Mall D-226. Phipps Plaza D-327. Shannon Mall A-728. Southlake Mall D-7

29. Alliance Theatre C-430. Chastain Park C-331. Fox Theatre C-432. Hi-Fi Buys Amphitheatre C-633. Philips Arena C-534. Roxy C-335. Turner Field C-5

36. Centennial Park C-537. Chattahoochee River Recreation Area B-238. Piedmont Park C-439. Stone Mountain State Park & Monument F-3

40. Atlantic Station C-441. Buckhead C-342. East Atlanta D-543. Little Five Points D-544. Midtown D-445. Virginia Highland D-4

ATTRACTIONS

MAJOR SHOPPING MALLS

SPORTS, THEATER & CONCERT VENUES

MAJOR PARKS & RECREATION

POPULAR NIGHTLIFE & SHOPPING

44

40

STOCKBRIDGE

AUSTELL

WOODSTOCK

STONEMOUNTAIN

736

KENNESAWALPHARETTA

1231


METRO ATLANTA


Looking to take a walk on the wild side?

Then look no further than Georgia’s wild

animal parks and preserves. You and

your family can get up close and personal

with all kinds of animals, from wolves to

wallabees. Whether you are looking for a

day trip or a weekend excursion, here are

some great options to consider.

Georgia’s Wild Animal Adventures

by Julie Edwards

O U T S I D E A T L A N T A

Play in the ParkOne of Georgia’s best kept secrets, Chehaw in Albany, boasts more than 700 acres available for recreation, education and conservation. Located deep in Chehaw, the Wild Animal Park fea-tures native and exotic animals, many of which are considered endangered species, including the red wolf, black rhinoceros and giant ante-lopes known as bongos.

Guests can stroll along the scenic board-walks, through the cypress swamps and see many of the animals in their natural habits, and kids will love the Children’s Farm, which fea-tures miniature horses, alpacas and pigs. Other exhibits include the reptile house, home to an impressively large Burmese python, and the alligator outpost where more than two dozen American alligators reside.

THE SIDE

PHO

TO: W

ild A

dven

ture

s Th

eme

Park

Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta.


What you need to know: A park and zoo pass is $8.25 for adults, $7.25 for seniors and $5.25 for children; 229-430-5275, www.chehaw.org

A Walk on the Wild SideJust a short drive away from Atlanta is a place where you can see, touch and feed hundreds of exotic animals—Pine Mountain’s Wild Animal Safari.

Spread over 200 acres, the Wild Animal Safari boasts nearly twice as many animals as the Atlanta Zoo, including ligers (half tiger/half lion). Visitors can drive in their own car, or ride in one of the Safari’s Zebra Vans, on a 3.5-mile paved road that brings you face-to-face with 500-600 free-roaming animals. Unlike other animal parks, visitors can feed many of the animals—animals will walk right up to cars in search of a snack. In addition, the park’s Walk-About zoo environment is home to primates, al-ligators and other animals.

What you need to know: Tickets for adults are $17.95. Children and seniors are $14.95; see Web site for seasonal hours; 800-367-2751, www.animalsafari.com

A Most Excellent AdventureWild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta is really two parks in one—a theme park and a water park.

See Bengal tigers, giraffes and elephants up close via the Safari Train, the best way to view the park’s animal population, which winds through the park as the conductor informs guests about the animals they are viewing. The 7,000 sq. ft. Lorikeet Landing aviary houses col-orful lorikeets and parakeets as well as tortoises, large ground birds and Koi fish. Tigers of India highlight the agility of the big cats and the Crea-ture Feature exotic animal show features live animals, comedy and crowd participation.

What you need to know: A two-day pass is $45.99 for adults and $40.99 for children and seniors and covers admission to both parks; www.wildadventures.net

Coastal CreaturesThe Oatland Island Wildlife Center in Savan-nah is a wildlife experience occupying over 100 acres of maritime forest and exhibiting more than 50 species of animals.

Beyond a zoo, Oatland is an educational center that showcases Georgia’s local animals in their own habitats along approximately two

miles of trails. Wolf Wilderness, allows visi-tors to have a “nose-to-nose” experience with a pack of wild gray wolves, separated by glass, of course! Guests also can have a “hands-on” ex-perience at the Georgia Farm, where they can interact with animals such as goats, pigs and donkeys.

What you need to know: Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children and seniors; 912-395-1212, www.oatlandisland.org

A Wild WonderHome of Wildlife Wonders and Paradise Valley Farm, North Georgia Zoo in Cleveland hosts over 80 different species of exotic animals, some of whom have even been featured on TV shows like Rachael Ray, Vampire Diaries and Dirty Jobs. What once was strictly a “visit you” zoo, now has opened its doors to visitors on 30 acres in the Appalachian foothills.

A Wildlife Walk provides a tour of exotic animals, from alligators to zebras. The Camel Encounter trailer ride visits camels, water buf-falo and yaks. Paradise Valley Farm houses over 30 breeds of livestock, including the rare min-iature zebu cow.

What you need to know: Wildlife Package (Petting Zoo, Camel Encounter and Wildlife Walk) is $25 for adults and $23 for children. 706-348-7279, www.northgeorgiazoo.com

THE SIDE

LEFT: North Georgia Zoo. RIGHT: Wild Adventures Theme Park. CENTER: Oatland Island Wildlife Center.

PHO

TO: (

Top

right

) Wild

Adv

entu

res

Them

e Pa

rk

48 | Newcomer Magazine |

upcomingEVENTS

Theater & ConcertsConcerts by the Springs, Heritage GreenThe 15th annual Concerts by the Springs out-door summer concert series continues with The Breakfast Club, Aug. 7, and The Return, Sept. 11. Arrive early and bring a picnic. Free admis-sion. Heritage Green on the Sandy Springs Soci-ety Entertainment Lawn, Aug. 7 & Sept. 11, www.heritagesandysprings.org.

The Ugly Duckling, Center for Puppetry ArtsThe Ugly Duckling brings to the stage Hans Chris-tian Andersen’s tale of a rare bird that simply doesn’t fit in. The Create-A-Puppet Workshop lets you make your own Ugly Duckling mari-onette. Center for Puppetry Arts, Aug. 18-Sept. 18, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org.

Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival, Fox TheatreThe Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival is a unique experience, anyway, but the chance to see the 1920 silent film The Mark Of Zorro, starring Douglas Fairbanks, on the big screen is rare, in-deed. Live accompaniment on the Mighty Mo Organ. Aug. 25, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org.

Michael Ian Black, Ferst CenterComedian Michael Ian Black rings his humor to the Ferst Center. Performance is recommended for adult audiences only. Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech, Sept. 8, 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.org.

You Ju Lee & Anthony Newton, Spivey HallThe Clayton State University Department of Vi-sual and Performing Arts, Music Division, pres-ents piano duo You Ju Lee & Anthony Newton onstage in beautiful Spivey Hall. Admission is free. Spivey Hall, Sept. 22, 7:30 p.m., 678-466-4200, www.spiveyhall.org.

Project Trio, Ferst CenterThe Ferst Center welcomes Project Trio, a pas-sionate, high-energy music ensemble that starts with a classical base and incorporates rock, jazz, hip-hop and Americana. Weather permitting, the concerts will be held in the outdoor amphi-theater. Free concert. Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech, Sept. 30, noon & 5 p.m., 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.org.

ASO Opening Night, Atlanta Symphony HallAtlanta Symphony Orchestra opens its 2011-2012 season with selections from Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen and the Atlanta Symphony premiere of Mahler’s arrangement of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. Atlanta Symphony Hall, Sept. 22, 23 & 25, 404-733-4800, www.atlantasymphony.org.

Better Than Ezra, Town Center ParkKnown for putting on a high-energy live show ev-ery time they hit the stage, alternative rock band Better Than Ezra will headline Suwanee’s free summer concert. Suwanee Town Center Park, Aug. 13, 770-945-8996, www.suwanee.com.

Paul Lewis, Spivey HallAcclaimed British pianist Paul Lewis makes a welcome return to Spivey Hall for its Season Opening Celebration with popular works by Viennese master, Franz Schubert, as part of his international two-year project, Schubert and the Piano: 1822-1828. Spivey Hall, Oct. 9, 678-466-4200, www.spiveyhall.org.

MAMMA MIA, Fox TheatreThe story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Over 45 million people around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show. The Fox Theatre, Nov. 2-6, 800-745-3000, www.mammamianorthamerica.com or www.foxtheatre.org.

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas!, Fox TheatreDiscover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! features hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.” The Fox Theatre, Nov. 29-Dec. 4, 800-745-3000, www.foxtheatre.org.

Memphis, Fox TheatreFrom the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Memphis is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. The Fox Theatre, Jan. 31-Feb. 5, 2012 800-745-3000, www.memphisthemusical.com or www.foxtheatre.org.

Billy Elliot The Musical, Fox TheatreBilly Elliot The Musical is the celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dreams come true.

Les Misérables, Fox Theatre

PHO

TO:

Jeff

Roffm

an

ASO Opening Night, Atlanta Symphony Hall


Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a bal-let class. The Fox Theatre, March 14-25, 2012, 800-745-3000, www.billyelliottour.com or www.foxtheatre.org.

Les Misérables, Fox TheatreA brand new 25th anniversary production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, Les Misérables has a glorious new staging and daz-zlingly reimagined. Based on Victor Hugo’s clas-sic novel, Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. The Fox Theatre, April 24-29, 2012, 800-745-3000, www.foxtheatre.org.

Jersey Boys, Fox TheatreThe 2006 Tony® Award-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons is coming to Atlanta. Jersey Boys is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. The Fox Theatre, May 22-June 10, 2012, 800-745-3000, www.jerseyboysinfo.com or www.foxtheatre.org.

Exhibits & EventsOpen House, Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance EducationThe Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education Cobb Centre is celebrating its five-year anni-versary. Visit the Cobb or the Buckhead Centre studios’ grand reopening to register for the new enrollment year. Classes for the 11/12 season be-gin Aug. 15. Aug. 13, 404-873-5811, www.atlantaballet.com/centre

Mort Künstler’s Civil War Art, Booth Western Art MuseumTake an artistic look at the Civil War. Mort Kün-stler’s Civil War Art: For Us the Living features more than 40 of Künstler’s major paintings—plus dozens of sketches—that serve as a visual history of some of the nation’s darkest times. Booth Western Art Museum, through Sept. 4, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.

TEAM Up!, Imagine It! TEAM Up! Explore Science & Sports exercises both body and mind. By slinging fastballs, per-fecting bounce passes and keeping balance on pommel horses and balance beams, kids will learn how the principles of geometry, physics, friction and force affect how they play their favor-ite sports. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta, through Sept. 11, 404-659-KIDS, www.chil-drensmuseumatlanta.org.

Alfred Stieglitz and His Circle, The High Museum “Alfred Stieglitz and His Circle: American Mod-erns from Atlanta Collections” features approxi-mately 60 works―watercolors, prints, paintings and photographs―drawn from the High’s perma-nent collection, as well as loans from private col-lections located in Atlanta. Through Sept. 11, 404-733-4444, www.high.org.

Night at the Museum III, Tellus Science MuseumCartersville’s Tellus museum comes alive with the biggest names in science history and science fiction during Night at the Museum III. This year’s theme is science fiction coming to life. Tel-lus Science Museum, Aug. 8, 6-10 p.m., 770-606-5700, www.tellusmuseum.org.

Turtle Tours, Heritage Sandy Springs MuseumSandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle will introduce children ages 2-5 to history through stories, hands-on exhibits, and crafts. These Turtle Tours are based on the Smithsonian Insti-tute’s Early Enrichment program. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, Aug. 13 & Sept. 10, www.heritagesandysprings.org.

Suwanee Day, Town Center ParkThe Suwanee Day community celebration begins with a kick-off parade and ends with a bang dur-ing the fireworks display. Featuring nearly 100 arts and crafts exhibitors, rides for children and teens, festival food and all-day entertainment, headlined by The Lovin’ Spoonful. Suwanee’s Town Center Park, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., 770-945-8996, www.suwaneeday.com.

Western Art South of the Sweet Tea Line III, Booth Western Art MuseumThe third offering in the Booth’s signature tri-ennial exhibition series, Western Art South of the Sweet Tea Line III features seldom seen great works of art from public and private Southern collections. Booth Western Art Museum, Sept. 24-Feb. 12, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.

Foxfire/Mountaineer Heritage Festival, Rabun County Civic CenterThe seventeenth annual Foxfire Fall Heritage Festival will feature old-fashioned fun, food, crafts, and music. Partnering again this year with The Mountaineer Festival, festival-goers will see over 35 exhibits and demonstrations. Rabun County Civic Center, Oct. 1, 706-746-5828, www.foxfire.org


ocated just minutes from Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park, home to the world’s largest piece of exposed granite, is widely acclaimed

as a must-see attraction. However, amid the famed laser light shows, paddlewheel riverboat cruises and other entertaining shows and activities is a true slice of history—the Confederate Memorial Carving.

Visitors who take the sky lift 825 feet to the top of Stone Mountain get a bird’s-eye view of the carving, which is the largest high-relief sculpture in the world. It depicts Confederate Civil War heroes President Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee and General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson. From this

vantage point, the carving is certainly impressive, but it still doesn’t manage to appear as large as its specifics indicate. The entire carved surface constitutes three acres, which is larger than a football field. Towering 400 feet above the ground, the carving of the three men measures 90 by 190 feet and is recessed 42 feet into the mountain. In fact, during its creation, workers were able to stand inside the mouth of one of the horses in the carving in order to avoid inclement weather.

The history of the carving is one fraught with drama. Conceived in 1912, the project en-dured through funding problems, quarrels, a change of hands for the mountain, and two sculp-tor changes, until the Confederate Memorial Carving was finally finished by 1972. With a small thermo-jet torch, sculptors Walker Hancock and Roy Faulkner were able to fine-carve eyebrows, buckles, fingers and strands of hair, completing the figures with the detail of a fine painting.

It took more than 50 years for the idea to become concept, and many may be surprised to learn that it’s actually larger than Mount Rushmore. Of course, the carving is only one part of Stone Mountain Park, and it does have ties to other attractions. In Memorial Hall, visitors can experience true-to-scale replicas of the Memorial Carving. In addition, the laser light show is projected onto the mountain and, at one point during the show, the lasers actually outline the carving, making it seem as if the horses are moving—the carving, in a sense, comes to life.

For more information about the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial Carving, call 770-498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

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Honoring the Southern Greats

The Stone Mountain Carvingby Nathan Turner

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newcomer magazine atlanta | august/september 2011

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