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Incept: Welcome to Atlanta
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u r b a n i t e
Breathe in the life of the city and check out these booming Atlanta neighborhoods while you’re here at Georgia State.
page 31-39
neighborhoods
pg 23
Commuting can be a pain. To lessen your burden, we scouted out these cheap and convenient places to park.
page 12-13
transportation
pg 7
All on your own for college? Here are some tips on how to not break your bank as you adjust to Georgia State.
page 16
finance
Start showing off your Panther pride at sporting events! Learn how to get around the sports arenas.
page 20-21
sports guide
pg 19
pg 16
ph
oto
by: a
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June 3, 2014 Vol. 1
a guide to the city
to Atlantawelcome
All New Panther Career Net
career.gsu.edu | 404-413-1820
Visit https://gsu-csm.symplicity.com/students/ and
search for HOT summer jobs TODAY!
Coming July 2014
1.
2.
3.
*Resumes currently saved to Panther Career Net will not automatically transfer to the new system
Sign into your Panther Career Net account using your campus ID and password to save your résumés and documents to your personal storage device, computer or email by June 15, 2014.
Search for jobs on the
Check career.gsu.edu for updates
Continue using “the old” Panther Career Net as usual through June 29, 2014.
*System will be o� line for maintenance June 30, 2014
Starting July 1, 2014 log into Panther Career Net using the link via career.gsu.edu to register and upload your new résumés & documents to “the new” Panther Career Net
The transition is as easy as: The transition is as easy as:
*First uploaded résumé needs to be approved in-person by University Career Services sta�
Don’t Worry.We’ve got your back
georgiastatesignal.com
With our live Twitter feeds, breaking Facebook statuses, and full online stories, you’ll never have to leave that
comfortable futon of yours.
@gsusignal
@gsusignalsports
@signalopinions
@gsusignalAandL
/gsusignal/signalsports
table of contents
14
17
financeeconomic tips page 16
columnhandling new responsibilities
page 17
campus6 ultimate tips for college life page 18
universitystudent organizations on campus page 7 freshman learning community experiences page 9
transportationget around on the Atlanta Streetcar page 10parking spots around campus
page 12
housing"crib" guide page 14
19
basketballrecruiting strategies
page 19
sports guidearena guide page 20
footballplayers drafted to NFL page 22
neighborhood
downtown page 31the highlands page 34little five points page 36east atlanta village page 38 31
guides
intro welcome to the city
page 23
film a student filmmaker's story page 24
bikesthe Atlanta Beltline
page 26
food review: Harold's Chicken page 29
6
THE SIGNAL URBANITE STAFF
EDITORIAL DEPARTMENTEDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anna [email protected]
SENIOR EDITOR Samantha [email protected]
ONLINE EDITOR Cameron [email protected]
PRODUCTION DESIGNER Madeline [email protected]
ASSISTANT DESIGNER Emily [email protected]
NEWS EDITOR Ciara [email protected]
ARTS & LIVING EDITOR Johnny [email protected]
SPORTS EDITOR Alec [email protected]
OPINIONS EDITOR Nicole [email protected]
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Raven [email protected]
COPY EDITOR Zoya [email protected]
ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Lauren Booker & Cleo Durham
ASSISTANT ARTS & LIVING EDITOR Alex Kugaczewski
ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Allyson Busch
STUDENT MEDIA ADVISOR Bryce [email protected]
MISSION STATEMENTThe Signal shall provide, in a fair and accurate manner, news of interest and significance to the Georgia State University community and serve as a forum for the expression of ideas of members of that community. Furthermore, The Signal shall provide an opportunity for students to pursue experience within a professional newspaper environment. The Signal shall also provide truthful and ethical advertising of interest to the Georgia State University community.
OFFICE INFORMATIONSuite 200, University Center • P.O. Box 3968 • Atlanta, GA 30303 • Phone: 404-413-1620 • Fax: 404-413-1622 • Web: www.georgiastatesignal.com
DISCLAIMEROpinions and Letters to the Editor expressed in The Signal are the opinions of the writers and readers. It does not reflect the opinions of The Signal.
The first copy of The Signal is free. Additional copies can be purchased from our office for $1.00 each.
Welcome to Georgia State!You hold in your hands the very first issue
of a completely revamped magazine made
just for INCEPT, with you in mind. INCEPT is all
about a new chapter for you. But before you jump
right in, we want you to know that its the beginning of a
new chapter for us too.
The Signal is a student newspaper at Georgia State that runs weekly in the fall and
spring semester. We have two main parts to our mission: To inform the Georgia State
community and to provide a training grounds for students wishing to pursue journalism
with a print publication.
With this mission in mind, we created a pilot project: The Signal Urbanite. This
magazine was created specially for new, incoming students like you. Inside, you’ll find
many guides to the ins and outs of our booming, eclectic city—Atlanta.
Commuters, we know how hard it can be to find affordable parking in this city. We’ve
been there. So our staff scouted out parking spots and their price points and mapped
them out for you.
Looking for an eco-friendly way to explore the life of the city? Towards the back,
we also have a feature on biking in Atlanta. As an extra, our arts and living editor has
provided a map of the Atlanta Beltline, which has multiple transportation routes with
paved paths just for bicyclists.
If you’re looking to use Atlanta’s transportation on a regular basis, you’ll likely be
considering your housing options. We know it can be confusing, which is why we’ve
included a housing guide with both university and nearby living spaces.
Check out the columns for advice that will hopefully help you acclimate to the
university’s diverse landscape. And because our city—and campus—can be hard on your
wallet, our finance columnist has provided some handy advice to help you stretch your
budget.
And when you’ve got a break to check out all Atlanta has to offer, flip to the very back
to find our downtown neighborhood guide. Here you can browse our best bets for dining
and entertainment around the university.
When you’ve exhausted downtown, we urge you to use the other neighborhood
guides—Little Five Points, the Highlands and East Atlanta Village—as a starting point for
your adventures off campus.
Wherever your time at Georgia State takes you, we want The Signal Urbanite to be
a part of your journey. So use it, tear it up, lose it, dog ear it, mark it up. And then, let us
know how we can improve for our second issue. Feel free to send what you loved, hated
or could have done better at [email protected] and [email protected].
The Signal Urbanite is just like you—new and ready to take on the city too busy to hate.
So let’s take it on together.
Best,
Anna Yang & Samantha Reardon
Letter from the Editors
Sam, Senior Editor
Anna,EIC
7
g
university
the signal urbanite | incept issue
Georgia State offers 402 chartered
clubs and organizations on campus,
which focus on a variety of topics such as
media, religion, culture, business, politics,
academics and more.
Below is an updated breakdown of
prominent clubs available to students at
Georgia State.
ManumissionOrganization Type: Activism/
Awareness
President: Naomi Oke
Mission: Advocating for trafficked
children within Georgia. Manumission’s
main goals are to educate fellow students,
lobby for important legislation and
participate in community service for
awareness.
Member count: About 50 regular
members
Upcoming fall 2014 events: Once a
month, Manumission will host Speaker’s
Series lectures, inviting orators to provide
information about their professions. In
the past, the club has had State General
Attorney Sam Olens, Senator Renee
Untermann and GBI Sara Thomas speak
during the lectures.
One Tuesday each month, Manumission
will host a general body meeting. In addition
to these monthly events, the organization
will host a Human Trafficking Awareness
Week in October.
Membership Fee: One-time fee of $15
for active participation with Manumission;
however, students are welcome to all free
events hosted by the organization.
African Students AssociationOrganization Type: Cultural/
Multicultural
President: Ethlena Macauley
Mission: Uniting students on the
university’s campus by creating a powerful
force and educating others about the
different cultures found within Africa,
according to Macauley.
Member Count: More than 100 regular
members
Upcoming fall 2014 events: There will
be an African Cup of Nations expected to
be held in September and Taste of Africa
planned for November. Taste of Africa will
include African food sampling, dance acts
and other performances. All other events
will be emailed as they are planned.
Membership fee: $12 annual fee to start
a membership; $10 annually for returning
members
Sustainable Energy Tribe (S.E.T)Organization Type: Environmental
President: Julie Smith
Mission: Advocating sustainable
awareness at Georgia State, according to
Smith. S.E.T said they try to accomplish this
Continued on page 8
Georgia State’s clubs and organizationsLet’s get social: p
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by going on trips, such as their recent trip
to LEED certification Indian Creek Lodge.
Members participated in rope courses.
Member Count:10-15 regular members
Upcoming fall 2014 events: No specific
fall events are planned now, but there may
be hikes or bike rides in the Atlanta area.
Smith said she would like to partner with
local organizations to hold volunteer events
throughout each semester.
The organization has a garden plot in
Hurt Park and will have workdays/garden
parties to collect food and start a fall
garden. Meetings will be held from noon -1
p.m. every Tuesday in that location.
Membership Fee: None
Anime ClubOrganization Type: Special Interest
President: Haud Nomen
Mission: To bring together students
who enjoy the art of Japanese animation.
The Anime Club also wants to further the
understanding of Japanese culture as a
whole.
“Sometimes we talk about them,
sometimes we just talk over them. Depends
how serious the subject matter is,” Nomen
said about watching anime during their
meetings.
Member count: Each meeting ranges
from 30 - 50 people depending on which
film is screening and what times the
meetings are held, according to Nomen.
Upcoming fall 2014 events: The Anime
Club will meet twice a week to watch and
discuss various anime films. The club said
they hope to screen a film or two at Cinefest
either at the beginning or end of the fall
semester.
Membership Fee: None
Wesley Foundation at Georgia State University
Organization Type: Religious/Spiritual
President: Xi Wang
Mission: The Wesley Foundation strives
to make disciples of Jesus Christ on the
college campus. The organization also said
they strive to offer unique worship, service
and fellowship opportunities to students.
They are also dedicated to leadership
development through their Wesley
Leadership Team and daily through their
service models.
“We are supported by the United
Methodist Church, but we welcome
anyone regardless of background, religious
affiliation or beliefs,” Angela Johnson,
campus minister for Wesley Foundation
said.
Member count: 15 current members
Upcoming fall 2014 events: The Wesley
Foundation meets on Monday nights in
the University Center and offers free food
and a biblical program. They also meet on
Thursday nights in University Center 402.
This fall they will be offering fellowship
opportunities at a Braves game, Skyzone
and board game nights.
Membership Fee: None
The Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity
Organization Type: Activism/Awareness
President: Aryn Prince
Mission: The organization was created
to cater to the LGBTQIQA student
population on campus. The Alliance was
founded in 1982, making it the oldest
queer-straight alliance in Georgia.
Member Count: Around 30 regular
members. Upcoming fall 2014 events:
Events for the fall will not be announced
until their first meeting, but Alliance is
planning drag shows and other major
events, according to the club’s former
president, Taylor Alexander.
Membership Fee: None
university
Organizations continued
Visit gsu.orgsync.com for more
information on clubs being chartered
at Georgia State.
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9
“I had a group with criminal
justice majors and everyone was sort
of motivated in a way. Then we all got
together and had study groups together,
and had our own GroupMe together.
We still do. We liked each other so much
that most of us decided the same English
teacher for English 1102
this semester.”
“From what I heard about it,
the credit hours didn’t matter and they
would assign the classes.
I was more comfortable
with me assigning my
classes.”
university
the signal urbanite | incept issue
What’s the deal with FLCs?
written by: CLEO DURHAM & LAUREN BOOKER
New students often arrive at their university with concerns about their class
schedules, meeting new people and doubts about being able to immerse themselves within the college’s culture.
This is why Georgia State offers incoming freshmen the option to sign up for Freshman Learning Communities (FLCs) during INCEPT.
FLCs are pre-planned core-curriculum courses set with groups of other students. The learning communities link four or five courses from the curriculum with GSU 1010, an orientation course providing information about the university.
Students have mixed opinions on FLCs. Check out what some students have to say about these optional courses.
-Kayla Kelly, international economics and spanish major
-Cory Smith, exercise science major
-Mariam Chaudry, neuroscience major
-Shahzad Irani, business major
-Menyon Belgrave, exercise science major
-David Peabody, computer science major
Visit http://incept.gsu.edu/preparing-for-incept/
freshman-learning-communities/ to learn more
about FLCs or GSU 1010.
advantages disadvantages
“I would say do it, because if you come to college you might know
too many people. That study group was
always good. That was
the biggest thing I got
out of it.”
“I thought it was an easy class. It really was a great intro class to
college. Like how do grades work, what
is plagiarism and all that kind of stuff.
It was the difference
between high school
and college basically.”
“ . . . the people I know now, we are going to be juniors and they
still have connections to freshman
year. Even if you don’t take the same
class now, you’ll have
somebody who might
take the same class with
you eventually.”
“It really complicates scheduling. If I would’ve come to Georgia State as a
freshman, I still probably
would not have been
interested in being in an
FLC.”
1
aAfter nearly two years of
construction, travelers, tourists
and residents of downtown Atlanta
can officially make room for the
city’s newest addition—the Atlanta
Streetcar.
In early June, downtown
residents will see their first glimpse
of the 96,500 pound S70 streetcars,
according to Sharon Gavin,
Communications Director for the
Atlanta Streetcar.
“We will power the overhead
system and then we will start testing
the cars,” Sharon Gavin said in a
May 2 interview. “We are all just so
excited about this, to finally see the
streetcars running on the streets.”
Once the streetcar testing is
complete in the second quarter
of 2014, the S70s will run at a
maximum operational speed of 35
miles per hour.
“Then we will go with control
testing at speeds and that’s where
the streetcars run with traffic,” she
said.
Community involvement:Gavin said the Atlanta
Streetcar Project team are making
arrangements with groups to
conduct safety presentations.
On May 18 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
there was a safety station set up
outside of the Peachtree MARTA
station.
“At that event will be specifically
presenting information for cyclists
concerning safety around the
Atlanta Streetcar tracks,” she said in
a May 1 interview.
Although there are currently no
other dates for events individuals
can attend, Gavin also said the
streetcar’s official website would
have more information about safety
modules come out at a later time.
“As we do schedule public
presentations, we will list them on
our website,” Gavin said.
Gavin also said the official
Atlanta Streetcar website has
additional safety information for
pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
“Euros in the process of
producing safety videos, those
should be completed by mid June.
We will also have safety brochures
available at that time,” Gavin said.
“We are available to do safety
presentations for any groups that
would like us.”
written by: CIARA FRISBIE Hours of Operation:
• Monday through Friday
5 a.m. - 11 p.m.
• Saturdays
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
• Sundays
9 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
More information can be found on the
July 2013 Atlanta Streetcar fact sheet.
Payment and fees:• Free rides around 2.7 mile
strip of downtown for the
first three months
• Proposed fare after three
months:
• $1 for one-way trip
• $3 for an all day pass
The Atlanta Streetcar project team
is also working with MARTA so
commuters can use their Breeze cards
to get onto the S70s too.
The Atlanta Streetcar to debut this summer
On the track to completion
11the signal urbanite | incept issue
EI R T
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BAKER STBA KE R S T
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TS
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UPPER ALABAMA ST
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TRINITY AVE
MITCHELL ST
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JOHN PORTMAN BLVD
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A .Y . INTERNATIONAL BLVD
Auburn at Piedmont Dobbs Plaza
Centennial Olympic Park
Sweet Auburn MarketHurt Park
Park Place
Woodruff Park
Luckie at Cone
Peachtree Center
Carnegie at Spring
Edgewood at Hilliard
Selena S.ButlerPark
Hardy IvyPark
Historic Oakland Cemetery
Georgia International
Plaza
Dobbs PlazaCalhoun Park
Woodruff Park
Walton Spring
Park
Centennial Olympic
Park
Georgia Aquarium
World ofCoca-Cola
Georgia World
Congress Center
Philips ArenaGeorgia
Dome
CNNCenter
UndergroundAtlanta
GeorgiaState
CapitolAtlantaCity Hall
Fairlie-PoplarHistoric District
Peachtree Center Station
Georgia StateUniversity
Grady MemorialHospital
Martin Luther King, Jr.National Historic Site
DOME, GWCC,PHILIPS ARENA,
CNN CENTER
GEORGIASTATE
INTERSTATE
75INTERSTATE
85
INTERSTATE
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FIVE POINTS
KINGMEMORIAL
0 1/8 mi 1/4 mi
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Streetcar Stop
MARTA Connect ion
Streetcar Route
MARTA
Express Bus
Parks
Attract ions
LEGEND
4/25/12 3:52 PM
National Center for Civiland Human Rights
College FootballHall of Fame
CO
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Streetcar Stops:1. Centennial Olympic Park
2. Luckie at Cone - Luckie Street NW &
Cone Street NW
3. Woodruff Park - 91 Peachtree Street
NE
4. Park Place - Park Place NE
5. Peachtree Center - 133-179
Peachtree St. NE
6. Park Place - Park Place NE
7. Hurt Park - Hurt Park
8. Auburn at Piedmont - Piedmont
Avenue NE & Auburn Avenue NE
9. Sweet Auburn Market - 209
Edgewood Ave. SE
10. Dobbs Plaza - Fort Street NE
11. Edgewood at Hillard - Edgewood
Avenue NE & Hilliard Street SE
12. King Historic District - Auburn
Avenue NE & Jackson Street NE
Pop Up Businesses:There will be a grand
opening celebration for pop-up retail
stores on June 7. The event will be
hosted by Central Atlanta Progress
and Atlanta Downtown Improvement
District (CAP & ADID).
Below are the pop-up businesses
around the Atlanta Streetcar 12-stop
track:
1. Arbitrary Living: 171 Auburn Ave.
NE
2. Bliss in Me: Peachtree Street
3. Britix Dog Bakery: 209 Edgewood
Ave.
4. The Byrd’s Box: 171 Auburn Ave. NE
5. Civil Bikes: 344 Auburn Ave. NE
6. Criminal Records: 345 Edgewood
Ave.
7. Fallen Arrows: 482 Edgewood Ave.
SE
8. Fresh.i.Am: 346 Auburn Ave. NE
9. Indie Craft Experience: 209
Edgewood Ave. SE
10. Just Add Honey: 171 Auburn Ave.
NE
11. ModernTribe: 171 Auburn Ave. NE
12. Rob Simmons Gallery: 443
Edgewood Ave. SE
13. Sock Fancy: 171 Auburn Ave. NE
Possible additional streetcar lines and
expanded services will be added as well
as linkage to the Atlanta Beltline with
future city and regional rail servicing.
transporationm
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12
A guide to student parking in downtown Atlantawritten by: CLEO DURHAM
Whether students live on
campus or commute each
day, choosing a place to
park that is affordable and conveniently
located can be a challenge.
Below are updated descriptions
on a variety of parking options to help
students find spaces near campus:
On-Campus Georgia State Affiliated Student Parking Decks: G Deck, K Deck, N Deck, S Deck, T Deck,
M Deck, Lofts Deck, Patton Hall, Greek
Housing and Piedmont North
G, K, M, N, S, T Decks:• $7 for visitors (students without a
parking permit)
• $4.50 per entry with valid parking
permit
• $3.50 per entry with valid Parking
Budget Card
• $2.25 per entry after 4 p.m. with
valid parking permit
• $90 per month (for Lofts, Patton
Hall, Greek Housing and Piedmont
North residents)
• $215 per semester (for M Deck,
T Deck, or Lofts Deck for non-
residents)
Parking permits or parking budget
cards can be purchased from Auxiliary
and Support Services in the University
Center.
Students pay a one-time fee for a
semester of parking with permits. On the
other hand, a budget card is reloadable,
allowing students to add money for
parking when they need it.
Students may also park in the Blue
Lot at Turner Field for free with a valid
parking permit but must remove their
vehicles from the lot by 5 p.m. on game
days in order to make room for those
attending the game. A shuttle transports
students to and from the lot between 7
a.m. and 11 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Specific days render this parking lot
unusable by Georgia State students.
Students should check the Turner Field
parking schedule for questions regarding
lot closings.
Streetside ParkingStudents who want to pay for parking
on a day-to-day basis can take advantage
of the curbside parking available
throughout campus. These are marked
with parking machines with a blue P on
them. Curbside spaces can be found
on Gilmer Street and Courtland Street
surrounding Hurt Park.
Downtown street parking is free on
Sundays and city holidays.
John Wesley Dobbs Avenue (near University Commons and Piedmont North)
1. Lanier Parking Lot
Address: 214 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $5 all day ($1 increase from last
year)/$65 monthly
Description: Large open lot located
across the street from University
Commons toward J.W. Dobbs and Jesse
Hill Drive. It is a 10 minute walk from
campus.
2. Shell Gas Station
Address: 160 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $3 for parking less than five
hours/$5 for anything more
Description: The gas station is located
directly across the street from the main
entrance of University Commons. There
are limited spaces (up to 10).
3. LAZ Parking Lot
Address: 140 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $3 Early Bird Special (before 9
a.m.; $1 decrease from last year)/$5 all
day afterwards.
Description: Located just up the street
from Shell station about 200 feet.
4. Central Parking Lot
Address: 141 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $4 all day/$65 monthly.
Description: Located across the street
from the LAZ Parking Lot
5. Parking Company of America
(Panther Lot)
Address: 145 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $5 all day
Description: This lot is attached to the
Central Parking lot on the side that faces
Aderhold.
6. LAZ Parking
Address: 85 J.W. Dobbs Ave.
Price: $3 for 0-2 hours/$5 for two or
more hours
Description: Located near the
intersection of J.W. Dobbs and Courtland
Avenue
7. Parking Company of America
Price: $6 all day
Description: Located at the intersection
of J.W. Dobbs and Peachtree Center
Avenue
Peachtree Center Avenue8. AAA Parking
Address: 44 Peachtree Center Ave.
Price: $4 all day
Description: Turn on to Peachtree
Center Avenue from J.W. Dobbs; the lot
is about 50 feet down the road.
9. Parking Company of America
Address: Approximately 48 Peachtree
13the signal urbanite | incept issue
Center Ave.
Price: $5.50 all day
Description: About 50 feet down the
road from AAA Parking lot.
Auburn Avenue10. Parking Company of America/
Georgia Bookstore
Address: 141 Auburn Ave.
Price: $5 all day
Description: Located behind the Georgia
Bookstore; about five to eight minute
walking distance from campus.
11. The Loudermilk Center/Boys
and Girls Club Metro Atlanta
Address: Parking Deck entrance located
at approximately 63 Auburn Ave.
Price: $5 for up to 2 hours/$10 for 2-4
hours/$12 for 4+ hours
Description: Located about 50 feet
away from the intersection of Peachtree
Center Avenue and Auburn Avenue
facing main campus. Meters are also
available for curbside parking.
Wall Street and Decatur StreetDecatur Street and Wall Street offer
parking options in close proximity to
Classroom South and Langdale Hall.
However, these locations are more
expensive than parking lots further away.
12. Decatur Street Parking
Address: 45 Decatur St.
Price: $4 for up to 1 hour/$7 for 1-2
hours/$9 for 2-4 hours/$11 for 4-8
hours/$13 for 8-12 hours/$5 on
weekends ($1 down from last year).
Description: Located across the street
from Walter’s Clothing Shop and directly
across from Classroom South.
13. AAA Parking Garage
Address: 47 Decatur St.
Price: $6 all day
Description: Located across from the
Natural Science Center
14. Lower Wall Street Parking
Garage Underpass
Address: 15 Lower Wall St.
Price: $4
Description: Located under Wall Street,
behind Hot Dog Shop near Langdale Hall.
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University housing: A new home away from homewritten by: BETHANY YOUNG
From loft-style apartments to
traditional residence halls, Georgia
State students can find apartments
and dorms which will allow them
to experience the urban sprawl of
downtown Atlanta.
Below are a glance at on-campus
housing. Following that, we also have
updated fall pricing and details about
other off-campus housing options.
On-campus Housing Options:The Lofts
This residence hall has 231 loft-
style apartments with an average of
550 students living there per semester.
All floor plans being considered, the
average cost for a student to live there
is $4,000 per semester.
Each room is furnished with a full
kitchen and a meal plan is not required.
Students can choose a seven-day or
five-day meal plan card if they desire.
Parking is available in the University
Lofts deck for a monthly fee of $90.
Family housing is also available in
The Lofts with three floor plans for
families.
University Commons:Located down the street from
Piedmont North, this complex has four
buildings and an average of over 2,000
students living there per semester,
making it the largest residence hall on
campus.
These apartment-style rooms have
fully furnished kitchens, living areas
and bedrooms. Meal plans are optional
here, and an attached parking garage
is accessible to students for $400 per
semester.
Patton Hall:The floor plans at Patton are not
apartment-style but feature a bedroom
and bathroom in suite. There is a study
lounge on each floor and an onsite
dining hall. In addition to the dining
hall, meal plan recipients can eat at
the dining facility located in Piedmont
North. The meal plan is required for
$1,863 a semester.
Parking is also available for Patton
Hall residences in the University Lofts
deck for $90 per month.
Piedmont North:Piedmont North has two
buildings—A and B—and provides
a residence hall lifestyle for an
average of 1,100 residents. Similar
to Patton, rooms feature a bedroom
and bathroom in suite. This residence
hall is located furthest away from all
classroom buildings but is only a 10-15
minute walk with Panther shuttles
available.
A dining hall is onsite and required
to live at Piedmont North. A parking
garage is available for students for
$400 per semester.
For more details about on-campus
housing, visit the full version of this story
online at www.georgiastatesignal.com.
Key search term: housing guide
Off-campus Housing Options:Downtown Atlanta and its
surrounding areas offer many housing
options. However, there are three that
are most-talked about on campus by
Georgia State students.
These are not the only apartment
options, but they are conveniently
located to campus.
One 12 Courtland:112 Courtland St. NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
One 12 Courtland is a new addition
to downtown, but already is becoming
a popular option with Georgia State
students.
Community amenities such as pools,
free tanning and study suites are some of
the qualities that many students say they
are attracted to.
The apartments are priced by
individual leases with roommates who are
responsible for their portion of the rent.
One bedroom styles are available for
$965-$1180 per month. Two bedroom
apartments range from $800-$965 per
person. There is also a three bedroom,
three bathroom floor plan for $915 per
person.
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Four bedroom plans cost $775 -
$870, with most floor plans having four
bathrooms.
One 12 prices include all inclusive
amenities as well.
WestMar Student Lofts: 800 W Marietta St. NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30318
WestMar is similar in concept to One
12 Courtland with furnished roommate
style apartments, individual leases and
community amenities.
Additionally, WestMar offers a free
shuttle bus to and from campus for
Georgia State students. WestMar also
has its own roommate matching service
for students and other individuals.
A two bedroom, two bathroom
floor plan ranges between $715 - $918
a person. There is a three bedroom
floor plan for $700 a month, while
four bedrooms cost $645 - $705 per
roommate.
Individual amenities are a flat-rate of
$85 a month per resident.
Pencil Factory Flats:349 Decatur St. SE
Atlanta, Georgia 30312
The Pencil Factory Flats feature
studio and multiple bedroom
apartments. All apartments come with
stainless steel appliances, walk-in
closets and hardwood/concrete flooring.
Attached to the complex are several
restaurants, salons and a comedy club.
Studio floor plans cost an average of
$1,046 per month for 625-769 square
feet. There are several one-bedroom
floor plans ranging $1,028 - $1,595
depending on the square footage
desired.
A roommate style apartment offers
two and three bedroom floor plans with
multiple bathrooms. A two bedroom
floor plan is $1,378 - $1,812 and three
bedrooms range between $1,918 -
$2,273.
Most of Pencil Factory Flats offer
a patio or balcony depending on
availability.
the signal urbanite | incept issue
housing
Pencil Factory Flats
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finance
I’d like to wish you all a warm welcome to Georgia State! As incoming students, you are probably excited about attending school in the big city. Unfortunately, with big cities come higher prices. Luckily you’ve got me, Mitch, to be your eyes and ears: I’m dedicated to helping you save money and ball out, all while sticking to your budget!
Economic
written by: MITCHELL OLIVER
Also, though parking can be a hassle, there are many options. Turner Field parking is free but comes at a cost. It’s a popular option that leads to crowded buses and long waits at peak hours, and often the shuttles don’t run during Braves games and other events. Thus, I recommend investing in a
budget card, which lets you park in a few different parking decks at a cheaper price than paying each time you park. This helps on those days when parking at Turner Field isn’t worth the hassle.
First things first: Know the best places to eat on campus! While packing your lunch is great, sometimes on-campus cuisine trumps your tuna salad surprise. One, Subway is your friend. They have $4 meal deals every day with a sandwich, chips, and a drink for $4. Two, it is time to become one with Moe Mondays. You can grab any of their burritos for $5.50 on Mondays.
So you’ve got your cheap eats around
campus, but what is there to do? I have a few
favorites. Cinefest, Georgia State’s theatre, runs free
screenings of movies for Georgia State students, so I recommend checking it out. Next is the Rialto Center for the Arts. This place is often overlooked by many, but they constantly have free concerts and live music shows each week.
While it might not change your life, saving money here and there really adds up. It will make your money stretch and allow you to enjoy more of the things you might love on campus later—like the bars on Edgewood Avenue!
I hope the semester goes great and you can use a these tips to help make this semester your most cost-efficient ever!
Lastly, avoid the dining hall. If you’ve already signed up for the meal plan, may your bank account rest in peace. Their pricing is so exorbitant that you would need to eat there three times a day, seven days a week just to make it pay off.
AVOID DINING HALLT
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17the signal urbanite | incept issue the signal urbanite | incept issue
A note on your newfound freedom in collegewritten by: NICOLE MOTAHARI
column
illustration by: MICHAEL AUBREY
Hello all and welcome to Georgia State! I know you must be excited to start a
new chapter in your life, however, when you go off to college, it’s very easy to get carried away. For many students, this is their first real taste of adulthood. The newfound freedom can be deliciously intoxicating for some when taken in small sips. But as with all good things, too much can get to your head.
The first piece of advice I’d give is to choose your classes wisely, not just in terms of your major, but also as far as scheduling class times. While you were up at eight in the morning in high school, college takes a greater amount of effort. For all you fellow
commuters, remember that you’ll likely be driving through Atlanta traffic during rush hour or taking MARTA, which is known for breaking down on a regular basis. Take these into consideration before signing up for that 8 a.m. history class.
Next, remember that while parties are fun, a balance is the key to everything. Partying non-stop is an assured way to flunk out of college and get yourself kicked out. If you are caught with illegal substances of any kind, Georgia State Housing has a zero tolerance policy. If you are caught, you will be asked to leave Housing and you will not be able to continue dorming. Don’t be foolish and tempt fate. Know your limits, know the law and stay safe.
Lastly, if you get a spike of homesickness, don’t be ashamed.
Just don’t let that take over or hold you back. Go to that Block Party hosted on the first week of classes or the Panther Prowls that are hosted every month. These are ways to get out and make new friends at Georgia State.
Join a student organization that sparks your interest or walk up to the cute guy/girl in your general biology course and ask them to grab a cup of coffee. We have a coffee shop, Saxbys, right on the first floor of Library North.
Call home and chat for a couple of hours a week, but don’t spend every free moment texting or calling Mom about how homesick you are. Live a little—after all, this is college! This is the time in your life when it’s OK to take chances, make mistakes and get messy (just not too messy)!
18
hHey new Panthers! You are about
to embark on a new unfamiliar journey in your life and though there’s no true way to prep you for it, here are some helpful tips. College can be the most exciting yet overwhelming beginning you’ll encounter, but remember there are thousands of people going through the same thing and have the same concerns.
1Be aware of your surroundings: Georgia State is downtown which means
you’re surrounded by all kinds of people; our school and the area are a melting pot. Never travel alone. There need to be at least two people with you at all times. Exchange phone numbers and keep in touch.
2Take your time choosing a major: The last thing you want to do is spend extra
money and time on courses you don’t need. When you’re choosing a major, do your research. Talk to upperclassmen and professors. There’s a difference between having an interest in a subject and investing in your future.
3Follow the crowd: Before you graduate from Georgia State you will have at least one
class in a building called “Aderhold”. It’s easy to get lost, but follow the crowd and you’ll get there. The area can be intimidating the first time walking through, so be cautious and refer to tip number one.
4Develop a study schedule: If you make studying a part of your daily routine, midterms
and finals will come less as surprise.
You increase your chances of being prepared and you won’t be focused if you cram days or hours before.
5 Join student organizations: Like choosing a major, you should research the different
organizations. There are academic groups and social groups. Each has a list of requirements that you should become informed about.
6Be free: Enter college with an open mind. There isn’t a set way to experience college
and everyone’s journey is different. Ultimately this is YOUR life. You shouldn’t do anything you don’t want to. You’re an adult and you have to make decisions that fit your liking.
Hope this helps and welcome to GSU! #AllBlueAllin #StateNOTSouthern #TheRealGSU
6written by: MIA MCDONALD
campus
things you
NEEDto do whenyou start atGeorgia State
19
aAll it takes is watching Ron Hunter coach once and it becomes evident he is a unique college basketball coach.
From his fierce, explosive coaching style from the bench, to coaching a game barefoot once a year for charity, Hunter is not afraid to push boundaries and move the game forward.
Hunter’s unique approach extends into his recruiting where he has developed a modern approach to his system: banking off the increasing number of transfers in college basketball.
Just in this offseason alone, Hunter has picked up two major transfers: Kevin Ware from Louisville and Jeremy Hollowell from Indiana University.
Hunter has been able to pick up top transfers each offseason to build his team, such as Kentucky’s Ryan Harrow last year, and Curtis Washington and Manny Atkins, who transferred in 2012 from USC and Virginia Tech, respectively.
The key to Hunter’s approach is building relationships with top prospects coming out of high school even though he knows the recruit won’t choose to go to Georgia State.
“No matter how long I’m here at Georgia State, the top 10 player in the country— if he’s in the state of Georgia—he is not going to Georgia
State,” Hunter said. “But we can continue to recruit that young man.”
Hunter said if it does not work out at the school the player chooses, he hopes he will remember Georgia State back home. That is exactly what drew Harrow and Ware back to Georgia State.
Focusing on transfers has become Hunter’s dominant approach to recruiting, despite critics who see it as lazy recruiting or speculate that he cannot recruit recent high school graduates.
Hunter thinks otherwise. He believes coaches who do not focus on the expanding transfer market in sports are making a mistake for their program, especially at an urban institution like Georgia State.
Hunter mentioned the 400-plus athletes who are transferring this year and how it is an expanding market that will only continue to grow.
“If you don’t get into that market, you’re going to fail,” he said.
In the state of Georgia, nearly 65 percent of high school athletes transfer at some point in their careers, according to Hunter.
“If they’re transferring in high school, then guess what, they’re probably going to transfer when they get to college,” Hunter said.
He said there is nothing wrong with this new trend of college athletes seeking to gain opportunities at other schools.
“I transfer jobs, the presidents of the universities transfer jobs—that’s what we do,” Hunter said. “So we criticize a young man for transferring, but as an adult, if we leave our situations to transfer to something we feel is better, why is it a difference?”
“Coach Hunter knows what he’s doing. He cares about his players more than just on the court,” Washington said, thinking back on when he transferred to Georgia State.
Washington said showing a recruit the program’s success and how he can contribute to future success is Hunter’s best recruiting tactic.
“He’s got a way with words, but you can’t fake winning. You can’t fake success, and that’s what we are here, a program of success.”
Hunter’s tactics seem to be working for his team as he led the Panthers to being the outright Sun Belt champions in their first year in the conference last season.
Now, the team, mixed with newcomers and veterans, will try and build off that recent success and, this time, let it carry them to the NCAA tournament.
the signal urbanite | incept issue
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Coach Hunter uses a modern approach to recruiting
2
The Georgia Dome opened Sept. 6, 1992 and is currently the home of the Georgia State Panthers, the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta’s upcoming Major League Soccer team. The Dome hosted two Super Bowls, one in 1994 and one in 2000.
Capacity: 71,228 for football events. 80,000 total. 28,155 for Georgia State football games (Lower Bowl).
Pros: Playing in a professional stadium can be used as a great recruiting tool. Not many college football teams can boast that they play in a professional team’s stadium, and it allows for the Panthers to give fans a unique gameday experience.
Cons: The downside of playing in the Georgia Dome is that it a
popular place for events to be held such as NFL games, other special college football games and concerts, thus creating scheduling conflicts. The Panther’s season opener had to be moved up a day as there are more college football games scheduled to be held the same weekend in addition to an Atlanta Falcons’ preseason game.
The Sports Arena is the home of the Panther’s men and women’s basketball teams, as well as the volleyball team. It was used for the badminton competitions in the 1996 Summer Olympics. It also hosted ESPN’s college slam dunk and 3-point championships in 2002 and 2007.
Capacity: 3,455 for basketball and volleyball.
Pros: There is a major upside to having an on-campus arena. The Sports Arena is accessible to Georgia State students as it is located in the heart of campus. This gives the Panthers a true home court advantage as more students can get out to support the teams.
Cons: Limited parking is the major down-side to the Sports Arena. The G Deck is only central deck for events at the Sports Arena. Fortunately, there are other limited parking options nearby.
written by: JEREMY JOHNSON
Georgia Dome
Sports Arena
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Getting around the panther’s den
21
Panthersville is the home of Georgia State’s baseball, softball and soccer teams. Panthersville was opened in 1986 and is located in Decatur. Georgia State and Georgia Board of Regents own Panthersville.
Pros: Panthersville provides Georgia State sports fans with a one stop shop feeling as all the fields are in close proximity to each other. Panthersville features acceptable fields with bleachers except for Heck Field, which includes seats.
Cons: Panthersville’s downside comes down to one thing: location. Panthersville is located in Decatur, which is nine miles away from the Georgia State campus. Fans with limited means of transportation have difficulties reaching Panthersville to show their support. Georgia State has been trying to move Athletics out of Panthersville for years to a location closer to campus.
Recently, Georgia State has shown serious interest in Turner Field and has created a proposal to develop the land into a mix-used development that would include a new football stadium and baseball stadium.
For more on Turner Field, go to georgiastatesports.com
GSU Baseball Complex
Robert E. Heck Softball Complex
GSU Soccer Complex
Capacity: 1,892
Capacity: 1,092
Capacity: 500
the signal urbanite | incept issue
sports guide
Panthersville
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Ulrick John, Albert Wilson and Theo Agnew are the latest Georgia State Panthers now
to be members of the National Foot-ball League.
Ulrick JohnJohn, former Georgia State
offensive-tackle for four seasons, was drafted in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. He signed a four-year contract estimated at $2.2 million, according to Indystar.
John is the second player in Georgia State history to be drafted. Former defensive lineman Christo Bilukidi was the first drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
“This is a great opportunity for Ulrick [John] and great news for Georgia State football,” head coach Trent Miles said to Georgia State Athletics. “He has an opportunity to earn a spot with an outstanding franchise. The work is just beginning, but his best football is ahead of him.”
John is a massive left-tackle standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 300 pounds. He was All-Conference
tackle and the Panthers’ top lineman for the last two seasons.
His athleticism and size caught the scouts’ attention at Georgia State’s Pro Day when he ran a 4.95 in the 40-yard dash.
“[The Colts] had been talking to me a lot,” John told the AJC. “The coaches were talking highly of me. Every time they came to the board, I was hoping they would call.”
Albert WilsonWilson, a wide receiver, signed
as a free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs and Agnew has received an invite to the Atlanta Falcons mini-camp.
Wilson’s speed and productivity as a Panther earned him a shot in the NFL. Similar to John, Wilson placed seventh among his position in the 40-yard dash at the combine, recording a 4.35.
During his time at Georgia State, the 5-foot-9 wide-out totaled 6,235 yards as a receiver and a kick and punt returner. Wilson is the all-time leading scorer with 26 touchdowns for 156 points for Georgia State.
“It’s a blessing to have the opportunity to have a chance to make the team,” Wilson said to the AJC. “I’m ready to go to work.”
Theo AgnewAgnew may not have been
selected in the draft or signed as a
free agent, but his production as a
Panther earned him an invitation to
the Falcons rookie mini-camp.
Agnew transferred from UMass
after two seasons and then played
two more seasons at Georgia State.
He was a two-year letterman and
starter on the defensive line.
Agnew is tied for second in
Georgia State history in tackles for
loss with 14.5, and he ranks sixth all-
time in tackles with 124.
Agnew tweeted his excitement as
soon as he received the invite saying,
“Guess im stayin in ATL!! FALCONS
HERE I COME #gotTheCall!!!!!” with
a picture of himself celebrating.
The tryouts took place May 16-18
in Flowery Branch, Georgia.
Georgia State’s number of players
in the NFL now could go as high as
four, the most in the program’s short,
four-year history.
The football team now prepares
for its fifth season, the second season
under Miles.
The Panthers kickoff the college
football season Wednesday, Aug.
27 against Abilene Christian at the
Georgia Dome.
Trio of Panthers headed to the NFL
written by: ERIC YEBOAH
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Ulrick John Albert Wilson Theo Agnew
23the signal urbanite | incept issue
a
intro
As an incoming freshman at
Georgia State, there are a lot of
changes to get acclimated to.
Atlanta’s reputation of being one of
the premiere cities in the country
for music, nightlife and food gives
one much to anticipate in the coming
months.
The Signal intends to provide
students with high quality stories
that not only bring forth the most
intriguing cultural qualities of
Atlanta, but also provoke a sense
of place and identification with
the various communities located throughout the city.
In this special INCEPT edition of The Signal, students will find information on a variety of people and locations —all relevant to Georgia State’s campus.
The section begins with an in-depth feature of one of Atlanta’s most promising student filmmakers, taking a closer look at his lifestyle, craft, and goals.
Next, The Signal takes a closer look at the rapidly-expanding Atlanta Beltline and Bike-Lane project, a multipurpose effort that looks to both integrate various communities of Atlanta and simplify travel practices
for Atlanta residents.Also located inside is the
Downtown Neighborhood Guide, a concise feature that will familiarize new students with the closest and most-convenient eateries and entertainment locations within walking distance from Georgia State.
Readers will also find our previous neighborhood guides within the section, covering a few of the more eclectic neighborhoods near downtown Atlanta: The Highlands, Little Five Points and East Atlanta Village.
We hope students enjoy reading. Continue to look for our weekly print publication in the coming months.
written by: JOHNNY GIPSON
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totheWelcomeWelcome citycity
24
Ansyl Carpenter is an independent student filmmaker at Georgia State,
but his work predates college and high school.
Carpenter laughed and shook his head when I asked him how he’d begun his film career.
“I was seven,” he said. “And I was following around my older brother to his friend’s house to play—or do what little kids do.”
He and a childhood pal trailed after Carpenter’s brother Anthony and his friend John. Carpenter unfurled the scene like a director.
They crept into a neighbor’s backyard. The gate was open but the fence was blocking part of the view.
“We saw John and his brother running into the opening in the backyard,” Carpenter said. “And John was like ‘Ahhhh!’ and he just falls.”
Carpenter scuttled closer, wondering what was going on. He saw Anthony creep up slowly. Then Carpenter could finally see. His brother cradled a camera in his arms.
“And...cut,” Anthony said.“What are you guys doing?”
Carpenter asked.“We are making a movie,” his
brother responded.Carpenter went into the house
to watch what Anthony and his friends had made. It was a “movie”
by 10-year-old standards, but it sparked something in Carpenter.
“We were so into the idea that we started filming ourselves,” Carpenter said. “I was a little more passionate about it than my older brother, so I’ve stuck with it throughout the years.”
Dream BigI was expecting it to be bigger. The
camera, I mean.I marveled at the grapefruit-size
piece of technology as Carpenter lifted “Nexus” from its bulky leather bag.
Carpenter nimbly fastened the Sony Nex-5N camera to the top of a towering tripod. I admit it looked a
written by: STEPHANIE MINOR
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2the signal urbanite | incept issue
film
bit funny all the way up there, like a ball on top of a flagpole.
“One thing I love about this camera is it gives you really phenomenal pictures,” Carpenter said. “I’ve had people look at my stuff and they’re like ‘Aw, man! What were you shooting on? A Merc-3?’ And I’m like, please, that’s a $2500 camera. Then I pull out this tiny thing.”
Carpenter chuckled as he played with the settings on Nexus. “I’ve been able to get some professional quality results on a college student’s budget.”
A PassionCarpenter sat across from me at a
tiny table in Reuben’s Deli on Broad
Street. We stuffed ourselves in a
corner. Camera bags and tripod bags
and a tote filled with filters and mics
encircled us.
The 22-year-old filmmaker—with
15 years of experience and three film
festivals under his belt (Sundance
Film Festival, Gwinnett International
Film Festival and Georgia State’s
own Campus Movie Fest)—furrowed
his brow when I asked him how he’s
fostered that “spark” for all these
years.
“It’s just honestly something I
enjoy doing,” he began. “If I don’t film
for a certain amount of time—which
I haven’t because of finals—I get
restless. And I get this itchy feeling.”
The film-junky admitted to skulking
about in a terrible mood for the past
few months. He attributed this unease
to the fact that he has not shot a short
film since the beginning of March.
“It’s hard to describe,” he looked
out the window. “It’s like crack.”
“Closet Fatty”One of Carpenter’s short films—
entitled “Closet Fatty”—playfully examined the phenomenon where skinny girls obsess about food all the time.
The film opens with a couple sitting on a couch watching TV. The camera zooms in on the girl. She is pretty and slim, but on her necklace hangs a charm: a hamburger.
The girl excuses herself to go to the bathroom, and as she walks away, she passes by her date’s roommate. The roommate is a caricature of an Asian-American female. She speaks with broken English and warns the boy that “everything you talk about, it going to be about food. OK, bitch?” Then she leaves.
The boy shakes his head. His date opens the bathroom door. “I’m hungry,” she says.
The lighting and tight-shot filming
are exquisite. The topic is quirky, but
that’s Carpenter to a tee.
Self TaughtCarpenter has grown up with a
camera, so he observed differences
in students at Georgia State who
had not taught themselves.
“I took an introductory
production class this past semester,
and nobody knew how to use Final
Cut Pro, the easiest film editing
software,” he said. “They didn’t know
how to use a camera. They didn’t
know the difference between having
your aperture at four versus 11.”
Carpenter said he does not hold
it against them, but then he changed
his mind.
“If you really love something—a
hobby, a person, a TV show, a
book, anything—you’re going to do
everything you can to know about
everything about it.”
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26
It’s an unseasonably warm day in Downtown Atlanta; instead of the usual pleasant springtime
breeze associated with mid May, sweltering heat beats down on the neck of a cyclist, pedaling furiously northward.
He throws a glance to his right, passing a boisterous patch of wild grass and dandelions. The whir of his bicycle wheels is juxtaposed by the gentle hum of a wasp flying past. Stopping for a moment to admire the ‘Rising Red Lotus’ mural blanketing the underpass, he realizes he’s not the only cyclist making a journey to Piedmont Park. Welcome to the Eastside Atlanta Beltline.
The Atlanta Beltline is an urban redevelopment project that looks to create an interconnected
transportation hub between major communities in Atlanta while also creating multipurpose walking trails and green spaces for improved ecological diversity.
The east side of the Atlanta Beltline is one of the most geographically and aesthetically diverse attractions in downtown Atlanta. The Beltline spans a considerable area, beginning slightly east of Georgia State’s campus on Edgewood Avenue and ending just north of Piedmont Park in midtown.
The Beltline passes through several popular tourist locations including the Historic Fourth Ward Park, Little Five Points and Ponce de Leon Avenue. Although it is a popular location for skaters and joggers, the Beltline is dominated by cyclists due to recent expansion of marked bike lanes and trails Downtown.
Mikel Madison, owner of Fixie Bicycle Gallery on Edgewood Avenue, said he could not be happier.
“The Beltline and bike lane construction is absolutely necessary for Atlanta,” Madison said. “Since Atlanta isn’t set up on a grid, driving a car is a huge hassle. It actually takes me longer to get to work in car than on a bike. Bike riding is the future of transportation in Atlanta.”
Madison has been the premiere custom bicycle maker in Atlanta since 2009, specializing in flamboyant and unorthodox fixed gear bicycle design.
“I started building single speed bikes because they were simple and had a lot of style to them,” Madison said. “I’m a graphic design and brand management guy, so I wanted to sell a product that could be utilized in the urban environment
written by: JOHNNY GIPSON
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27the signal urbanite | incept issue
while also promoting health and well-being.”
Madison looks at bicycle design in a more interpersonal fashion, stressing the importance of style and individuality for his customers.
“I try to blend a person’s individual style with their physical needs,” Madison said. “If I can get them on a stylish bike, they’ll ride more, get compliments and become immersed in the culture. Once you get the bug, I don’t have to do too much else.”
To the untrained eye, a “fixie” bike may seem no different than any other bike on the road. Madison believes differently.
“Fixed gear bikes fall in between road bikes and BMX bikes,” he explained. “It’s the perfect balance between the two and there’s a wide variety of styles. It’s light, agile and rigid, which is perfect for street riding.”
Madison was very enthusiastic in expressing the intricacies of riding a fixie bike in the city, which is a daily experience for him.
“It’s for people who make calculated, quick decisions because you’re literally playing with your life riding in the streets,” Madison said. “Adrenaline junkies are definitely attracted to the fixie life.”
Madison even took it a step further, explaining the experience on a psychological level.
“It’s a more interactive ride,” Madison said. “It’s aggressive, physical riding; you’re blazing through traffic, trying to catch that light or slide between two cars that are 2 feet apart. It raises your mental awareness of what’s around you and kind of makes you tap into an intuitive sixth sense in terms of how you have to anticipate everyone’s motions.”
Although Madison enjoys Beltline riding, he expressed his frustration with bike riding on Atlanta streets.
“You have to consider yourself a vehicle,” Madison said. “You have to make the cars ride according to you. It’s frustrating riding in the city sometimes because if I were a
slow moving vehicle like any other situation, it’d be no different than someone just driving past.
“A lot of motorists in Atlanta just don’t know how to deal with cyclists and that’s when it gets dangerous to ride in the streets,” Madison continued. “Luckily, these new bike lanes have made the lifestyle way easier.”
Madison, who has built more than 250 bikes over the years, explained the pleasure he gets from customizing a bike and then seeing it somewhere in the streets.
“It’s a great feeling when I see someone who I’ve made a bike for and they tell me how much attention their bike gets them or how many compliments they get.”
Even though Madison loves to see his bikes in action—both in the streets and on the Beltline—he also thinks the popularity of the Beltline is “a blessing and a curse for riders.”
“The Beltline is really crowded; that it’s only downfall,” Madison said.
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“I try to ride on it outside of rush hour, when everyone is getting off work. All the joggers take a huge amount of space from people that like to ride on bikes or skates. I definitely think that it needs to be widened. The popularity of the Beltline is a blessing and a curse for riders.”
Despite the shortcomings, Madison ultimately feels that the
Beltline and bike lane construction is beneficial for the culture in Atlanta.
“The lanes have only fostered what was already happening in the city,” Madison said. “With the transformation on Edgewood from the trolley construction, the lanes and trails are perfect. The Beltline is amazing because it’s connected so many neighborhoods and villages. It’s going to change the culture of transportation in Atlanta.”
Although the Beltline circles a large portion of downtown Atlanta, it has a special relevance to Georgia State students, who may be unable to afford a car in the city.
With the rapid expansion of the Beltline, freshly painted bike lanes and artistic individuals like Mikel Madison committed to creating superior two wheel transport, buying a Fixie bicycle may be the best investment a Georgia State student can make.
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dDowntown Atlanta has several
premiere places to get good fried chicken, but one that often gets overlooked is the scabrous, yet sophisticated, Harold’s Chicken.
Nestled in the heart of the Old Fourth Ward, Harold’s Chicken and Ice Bar has established itself as the face of good eating on Edgewood Avenue.
Although the restaurant’s name includes “ice bar”, it is slightly misleading. There aren’t any ice sculptures dazzling the eyes of guests, but there is a full bar, containing many classic drink choices like Jack Daniels, Grey Goose and Malibu. It’s almost impossible to miss the restaurant in passing, and you’re
almost certain to hear it before
you see it; a constant mix of R&B,
Hip Hop and Soul music resonates
from its interior. If the sounds of the
establishment don’t capture your
attention, the imposing steel bars
covering its front windows surely
will.
Upon entry, you’re instantly
overtaken by the juxtaposition of
fine art and flat screens resting
on the walls. If one of the games
on the numerous televisions isn’t
entertaining enough, a quick glance
at the beautiful, portrait style
paintings throughout the restaurant
will surely intrigue you. The brick-
laden walls and low-key lighting make
Harold’s appear rough and rugged,
but the ambiance is anything but.
After being seated, an expansive
menu is soon provided; with selections spanning from fried catfish to chicken gizzards to okra, Harold’s serves more than just the typical chicken wings and fries. The typical chicken and fish combo meal runs between $11-13, but larger meals—like the 24 piece wing buckets—cost $33. A fish filet dinner costs $11, and a fried green bean or sweet potato tater-tot appetizer costs $5. Although everything on the menu is extremely appetizing, my personal favorite is the ‘Perch and Wings’ combo, a combination of three chicken wings and two pieces of fish with a side of fries.
The signature chicken wings are large and flavorful. With the option
the signal urbanite | incept issue
written by: JOHNNY GIPSON
Continued on page 3
Restaurant Review:H A R O L D ’ SC H I C K E N
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of getting either “hot” or “mild” sauce to dip them in, I prefer the mild sauce every time. The tomato-based sauce boasts a tangy, yet sweet flavor to complement the juicy crunch of the chicken. It recommended you order your wings “extra crispy” to provide that extra crackle when you bite down. There are three wings provided in a typical meal, and a side of large cut french fries.
The fried perch included in the “Perch and Wings” order is also exceptionally tasty. The fish is fried golden brown and then seasoned with a generous touch of salt. Two large pieces are provided, and their sweet tartar sauce on the side brings balance to the strong flavor of the fish.
Aside from the chicken and fish, there are also several sides that can be ordered with a meal. Cole slaw and thick-cut french fries are the default sides in any meal, but mushrooms, onion rings, or—my personal favorite—fried okra, can also be ordered in replacement. The french fries are lacking considerably in flavor, but the fried okra’s delectable flavoring makes up for what the fries miss; lightly salted and deep-fried, the okra still retains the moist, juicy taste that we are familiar with, in addition to the delicious crunch that makes it so fun to eat. A slice of bread can also be found at the bottom of many of the entrees on the menu, which is a nice touch if you happen to order something spicy like the messy ten piece buffalo wings or a jalapeño pepper side.
The service at Harold’s is commendable. Every server has a smile, and constantly asks if everything is up to par. On a regular day, your food comes to you within 10 minutes of placing your order. On busy weekend, food arrives between 15 and 20 minutes after ordering.
Harold’s largest point of appeal is the fact that it is open until 3 a.m. on weekends, making it a game-changer after an Edgewood bar-crawl. There is even a live DJ on Saturday nights
and the occasional live performance during the week.
Harold’s is the perfect place to end a wild night out during the weekend, or to simply enjoy a good game during the week. Anyone who appreciates fine art, great music and fried chicken wings will find this restaurant to be more than satisfying. Just make sure you get them extra crispy.
Grade: B+
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Harold's Chicken continued
31the signal urbanite | incept issue
sStraight out of high school, many
college freshman will find themselves
outside the confined space of famil-
iar concrete halls and thrown into
the foreign, bustling environment of
downtown Atlanta.
With the luxury to go anywhere
before and after classes, Georgia
State’s incoming freshman class
should know the best places to spend
their time around Georgia State’s
campus and the surrounding area.
Full of eateries, markets, stores
and attractions, there’s no shortage
of places for students to enjoy their
time around campus. Here are the
top four places for new Georgia
State students to visit.
Neighborhood Guide:D O W N T O W N
written by: ALEX KUGACZEWSKI
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Apex Museum13 Auburn Ave. NE
Anatolia Cafe & Hookah Lounge isn’t a typical campus dining establishment—it’s a bar, a hookah den and an eatery all in one. Couple that utility with the affordable pricing, and Anatolia Cafe is undoubtedly one of downtown Atlanta’s premiere student attractions.
The building’s first floor is wide and spacious with plenty of seating options for customers, including window-side booths, bar stools and tables. Upstairs, the interior
adopts a more casual tone with its numerous couches and plush cushions.
Anatolia Cafe & Hookah Lounge brings its own culture to the downtown Atlanta food scene as well. Anatolia offers students a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including gyros, falafel and tabbouleh in addition to numerous alcoholic drinks and hookah flavors.
Owner and founder Rabia Gungoren said that she doesn’t want to recommend a singular menu
item because all of the restaurant’s dishes are good, but she noted that the gyros, kebobs and vegetarian dishes are popular choices.
Gungoren also said that Anatolia Cafe & Hookah Lounge appeals to more than just Georgia State students. She serves foreigners and businessmen as well.
“I like cooking, and I wanted to have my own business. Me and my children are very into our business. It’s probably the most important thing,” Gungoren said.
To say that the Apex Museum’s exterior is low-key would be an understatement. The building’s entire front facade consists of nothing more than a brick wall with the museum’s name printed across a red awning mounted over the front door. Inside the building, however, is one of Auburn Avenue’s most exciting and educational attractions.
The museum, opened in 1978, offers visitors a number of exhibits documenting the history of Africa
and its people over the centuries. Current exhibits include a vintage trolley, a Sweet Auburn drug store and a wall-scaling timeline of African history.
The timeline is visualized with numerous illustrations, documenting early African civilizations throughout history. Turning right, visitors will notice a slave ship replica against the next wall.
Apex Museum founder Dan Moore takes great pride in the museum
and believes it to be an important historical documentation of Black accomplishment. Moore said that one of his goals when founding the Apex Museum was to dispel the many myths surrounding black history.
“I asked myself why there wasn’t an African American museum in a city like Atlanta,” Moore said. “We believe there’s a great contribution by Africans and African Americans to world history. They’re overlooked in many instances.”
Anatolia Cafe & Hookah Lounge2 Peachtree St. NW
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downtown
Googie Burger26 Park Ave. W NW
It’s no secret that the strip of Broad Street closest to Aderhold Learning Center is completely dominated by restaurants and eateries. From pizza to smoothies to sushi, there’s no shortage of choices for students looking for a meal.
Dua Vietnamese Noodle Shop is certainly one of the busiest stores in the area. It’s nearly packed every weekday during lunchtime hours, and it’s easy to see why. The shop offers students a variety of Vietnamese
dishes at affordable prices.While the shop’s interior looks
like your typical restaurant, Dua’s downstairs eating area is the place to sit if seating is available. Strings of light bulbs line the ceiling, and the brick walls and muted colors lend the room an underground atmosphere.
Owner and founder Mylinh Cao established Dua six years ago on Broad Street to provide downtown Atlanta with quality Vietnamese cuisine. According to Cao, she
didn’t anticipate the speed of the restaurant’s success.
In addition to the quality of the food, which is all freshly prepared, Cao said that Dua’s simplicity sets it apart from the competition, specifically noting Dua’s single-page menu.
“It’s a very simple concept. Most Vietnamese restaurants have three or six page menus. If I’m going to cater to businesses and Georgia State, I want to keep it simple.”
First impressions are undeniably important, and Googie Burger certainly strikes an impressive one. The angular, white rooftop architecture offers a stark contrast to the lush green of the trees and grass surrounding the building’s perimeter. No other burger spot in the downtown area looks quite like it.
Googie Burger’s interior, unlike many downtown food stops, is
reserved entirely for the chefs and their ingredients, leaving customers to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Centennial Olympic Park while sitting on any of the numerous benches along the building’s perimeter.
Those benches provide the perfect space to enjoy Googie Burger’s menu choices, which include classic hamburgers, sandwiches,
salads and shakes at affordable prices for the frugal student.
Customer Stacey Lucas said that she enjoys Googie Burger’s food and that it is a good excuse to come down to the park while she’s not working at the Atlanta Children’s Museum.
“It’s good food, and it’s nice to sit outside in the park. The milkshakes are probably my favorite,” Lucas said.
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Dua Vietnamese Noodle Soup3 Broad St. NW
34
The Highlands boasts such a vast array of awesome local haunts that it would be
impossible to highlight all of them. But in this installment of The Signal’s neighborhood guide series, we bring you five local establishments you won’t want to miss. Bonus: they’re all within walking distance of one another.
Neighborhood Guide:THE H IGHLANDS
written by: SAMANTHA REARDON
Righteous Room11 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE
Cafe 6464 North Highland Ave. NE
Sandwiched between Urban Outfitters and the Plaza Theatre off Ponce de Leon Avenue, The Righteous Room is the perfect stop for drinks after a Friday night Rocky Horror show—it’s a dive-bar with a bohemian flair, a kickass playlist and general coolness.
Business partner and bartender Patrick Galvin was printing CD covers for albums he burned for the
bar’s playlist when he discussed his start as a bartender at The Righteous Room.
The bar has been serving the Highlands for 17 years, and some of the regulars are just folks working down the street. Drinks come sans tax; a $4 beer is $4 flat.
“People in the service industry, I don’t think they want to pay $8 to $12 for a drink, you know? ‘Cause
they don’t make much money either. You know, they need to pay rent and pay all their bills, so we afford them the opportunity to drink on the cheap,” Galvin explains.
This solidifies the bar’s neighborhood relevance, making it one of the most iconic spots in the Highlands.
Cafe 640 is at all times many things: a bistro, a cafe, a restaurant and a bar.
Chef Peter Frazzano mixes European and American cuisine to produce dishes that are both affordable and contain high quality ingredients.
“That’s the nice thing about the title of our restaurant—Cafe 640 —we can really do anything. We’re not stereotyped as being a certain
restaurant,” Frazzano says.General manager Ticia Grass
attests to the importance of lending a hand to other local businesses and appealing to customers.
“We definitely try to appeal to our neighborhood,” Grass says.
The cafe also boasts various events throughout the week, such as live music performances each Thursday at 8 p.m.
3the signal urbanite | incept issue
sshighlands
Highland Row Antiques628 North Highland Ave. NE
Atlanta Cupcake Factory624 North Highland Ave. NE
Videodrome617 North Highland Ave. NE
Highland Row Antiques is rather unassuming if you never make it past the main floor. But the cashier will prompt you to go downstairs, and by all means—go.
You will be greeted by six rooms filled with everything from vintage clothing to mid-century furniture to preserved Playboys, and everything in between.
Owner Angela Carbon opened Highland Row Antiques 10 years ago with a handful of vendors, and now she has more than 20 who sell their wares in the store.
“I just like to keep it small. I don’t like change too much. I like the personalities of the people that are there. You sort of have to fit the store.”
The store’s aesthetic is funky and eclectic—a reflection of Carbon’s vendors. She tries to focus mainly on antiques from the 50s through the 70s.
It seems like they have everything imaginable.
“We’ve had some vintage, erotic S&M stuff before—I mean, we’ve got it all.”
In its eight-year run, Atlanta Cupcake Factory (ACF) has made quite the name for itself under the helm of owner Jamie Fahee; it has been featured in several local publications, including Creative Loafing.
ACF is not just any cupcake shop, baker Zoe Mayfield explains. Fahee opened her doors before cupcakes became trendy.
“We’re like the original gangster of cupcakes, so we did cupcakes before the trend,” Mayfield says.
Mayfield thinks you’re either born to bake or you’re not. But either way, anyone can enjoy the cupcakes at ACF.
What really sets ACF apart are the natural ingredients used, making each bite taste like it was homemade in the family kitchen. All cakes are baked fresh daily.
Videodrome is covered wall-to-wall in DVDs and movie posters, and, at first entry, it’s a little overwhelming.
But with the selection of about 18,000 DVDs covering several genres—American indies, foreign films, sci-fi, horror and anime—it’s as simple as speaking to an employee and finding something you like.
Owner Matt Booth opened Videodrome in 1998. His introduction to non-mainstream films came when he was a student at the University of Georgia. After
seeing films like Unbelievable Truth, Booth explains he couldn’t stop.
And though movie lovers can easily stream movies online now, Booth says that Videodrome offers an alternative to the culture of having to sign up for multiple, costly accounts that carry different films, like Netflix and HBO GO.
“Because different sources carry different material...so we have all that, so you don’t have to search around for what you want,” Booth says.
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Neighborhood Guide:L I T T L EF I V EP O I N T S
written by: SAMANTHA REARDON & JEWEL WICKER
Little Five Points is—arguably—the Atlanta neighborhood with the most character. On
any given day, locals and tourists alike can hear live music flooding the streets, shop for handmade and vintage goods and grab a beer with friends. For this part of the neighborhood guide series, we want to highlight the diverse array of businesses that most embody the spirit of this eclectic district.
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Little Five Soul1131 Euclid Ave.
Little Five Soul doesn’t stand out from the other businesses on Euclid. But the music playing on the inside filters into the street, and that, explains manager Dave Soul, is what draws customers in.
“When you walk in, there’s a certain vibe to it, and the music is always good.”
This is what initially drew Dave to the store, which was originally located across the street at an open-market bazaar. He said that the original location reminded him of a cross between Magazine Street and the French market in New Orleans, his hometown.
Eventually, Dave became more than a customer, and enjoys his job helping people find the music they’re looking for.
“Our niche has been to offer the public things that you don’t really find at Best Buy or Target, and different stuff that you don’t find on mainstream radio.”
The store carries a variety of genres, including R&B, jazz, broken beats, house and rap. They also offer t-shirts, locally designed jewelry, sunglasses and beverages.
Dave explained the importance of the store to promote a niche market that caters its customers, unlike department stores.
“It’s the pop and pop shops that maintain that personal touch—that interaction with the people, and a lot of the department stores don’t have that.”
What was first inspired by Southern Californian pizza boutiques is now a restaurant staple in Little Five Points.
Savage originally opened its doors in 1990 at a Virginia Highlands location. Co-owner Field Cox said the move came because Little Five garnered more buzz and foot traffic.
“There is a lot of neighborhood stuff around here: Inman Park, Candler Park—all the people living in those neighborhoods are a great draw.”
Cox said that one of the most important roles he plays at Savage is to draw customers in and keep them coming back.
“You have to treat people well and take an interest in them personally.”
Savage—with its brightly decorated walls and comic book references—has a very personal atmosphere and welcoming service. The wall art started with Cox’s partner Myron’s paintings that originally hung in a new wave club in the late 70s.
“It just kind of took on a life of its own after that,” Cox said of the decor.
Savage Pizza484 Moreland Ave. NE
37the signal urbanite | incept issue
Although it’s the oldest running tattoo shop in Atlanta, a banner sign stating the word “Tattoo” is Sacred Heart’s only marker from the street. Once you enter the brick building and find your way up its stairs, you’ll be greeted at the door by the buzz of tattoo needles and cadence of hip hop beats.
Manager and artist Loki Shane has been tattooing for 16 years, in his own hometown of Little Five Points. He first got interested in the industry while getting his first tattoo.
“The minute the girl started on my skin, I knew this is what I was going to do for the rest of my life.”
Shane has been an artist since childhood, painting and drawing in his sketchbooks. He described his work as mostly large-scale, vibrantly colored tattoos.
His favorite tattoos to do are cover-up pieces, which he said gives people a second chance.
“It gives people new life. When you have a lot of bad tattoos, people regret, because of bad memories or bad things connected to them, or they we’re horribly done so they’re embarrassed to show them. To be able to give someone a new piece of art that they’re going to enjoy showing off, make them happy about showing they’re body again—it means a lot.”
Working at a shop that has been around for 20 years has given Shane the chance to watch the local businesses grow and evolve.
“There is never a dull moment in this neighborhood.”
little five
Sacred Heart Tattoo483 Moreland Ave. NE
Elmyr191 Euclid Ave. NE
Steven Harris, owner of Variety Playhouse, said some of Wax n’ Facts’, a nearby record store, musician clients learn about the store while in the area for a show at Variety Playhouse. Even when they’ve outgrown the venue, they still come back to the community.
Musicians from every genre play at the venue, which sells general admission tickets and offers both standing and seating options on a first-come, first-served basis.
Harris said Variety Playhouse has been the community’s music venue for nearly 24 years. Before then, it was a movie theater, a church, an art house and a place where toxic chemicals were stored. He took over the venue in 1990 and said his experience as a show promoter gave him a better understanding of the market than the previous owner.
He said the small community benefits from the fact that everything is within walking distance.
“I think one thing that’s a plus for Little Five Points is that it’s a walking neighborhood. So you can come here, you can drop your car for the night, get a meal before the show, come see a show, go get some drinks afterwards, or food afterwards, and do all of that in a neighborhood.”
According to co-owner/manager/ “fix-it dude” Jim Shelly, Elmyr (pronounced El-meer) is both a party bar and a restaurant.
Elmyr started as one of his favorite local bars, then became his workplace. Since he began, he’s worked aside some of Altanta’s prominent artists and musicians. Shelly explained how that’s part of Elmyr’s goal to support local creative people.
“Bill from Mastadon worked here for years when he first moved to Atlanta.”
Shelly said Elmyr is also the hangout of bands like the Coathangers, who will be premiering their new music video at Elmyr on March 5.
“It’s a really fun bar you can go to and party and you know you’re going to see somebody you’re friends with here for sure.”
The Latin inspired cuisine is prepared fresh every day, and things on the menu have stayed relatively the same, with the exception of everyday specials.
Variety Playhouse199 Euclid Ave. NE
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Neighborhood Guide:E A S TA T L A N T AV I L L A G E
written by: SAMANTHA REARDON, JEWEL WICKER &
JOHNNY GIPSON
East Atlanta Village is a community with a chip on its shoulder. Its gritty streets and
single gear bicycle riders give it a recalcitrant charm comparable to none. For this part of the neighborhood guide series, we highlight a tight knit community of entrepreneurs and artists not-so-quietly tucked behind Moreland Avenue.
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Graveyard Tavern is arguably the most well-known attraction in EAV. Boasting a wide array of nightly events for every demographic, Graveyard is impossible to miss while passing through, both literally and figuratively.
If the eerie black hearse guarding its front doors isn’t intriguing enough, its unique interior set-up surely is. Situated as a restaurant with a full bar, couches and dance-floor, Graveyard blends every entity of nightlife into one.
“Everything we do is for the village,” manager Drew Gillespie said. “We take pride in being an above average service bar..”
Live music is taken very seriously at the Graveyard, with events nearly every night featuring premiere DJs and bands from Atlanta’s music scene.
And offering five dollar pitchers, flavorful wings and handmade burgers, it almost feels wrong not to eat while there.
The Graveyard Tavern124 Glenwood Ave. SE
Since moving to EAV from Jonesboro two years ago, the community has received The T-Shirt Lady well because she has something to offer everyone.
“[My customers are] real diverse. All kind of people. You have the young kids that just come in, you have the soccer moms that come, you have
the people from family reunions, you have…rappers, artists.”
The owner, who prefers to be called T-Shirt Lady, has been designing shirts for a decade.
She said she enjoys the community in EAV more than the Jonesboro community because it encourages the growth of local businesses.
“Where my shop used to be they didn’t care. They’re more involved in keeping the businesses here. Especially if it’s a product that they want.”
The T-Shirt Lady is a healthy blend of creating designs for customers and implementing the ideas they bring into her store.
The T-Shirt Lady49 Flat Shoals Ave. SE
39the signal urbanite | incept issue
Lynne Tanzer co-owns and operates Hodgepodge Coffeehouse and Gallery, which is housed in a 70-year-old historical building just a few blocks away from the bustling EAV neighborhood.
And though Tanzer said that their
space was more affordable than those in EAV or L5P, Hodgepodge makes it a goal to invest in local goods. Hodgepodge recently began incorporating pastries, cupcakes and sandwiches into their menu.
“We really wanted to make sure that we were... making everything here so that it was as fresh as it could possibly be.”
Hodgepodge is also a haven for handmade local goods, which are situated throughout the space. Collections of paintings hang in the gallery and jewelry and candles stock the bistro, among others.
“We’ve got a little bit of a reputation as somewhere where you can get local and handmade.”
EAV
the signal urbanite | incept issue
T-Shirt Lady loved the EAV community so much that she decided to open a nonprofit art gallery right next door to The T-Shirt Lady last August.
Colorful paintings and brown masks from various artists line the brick walls in The Gallery EAV where art exhibits, community and private events are held.
“I decided to open up a gallery so that people could express themselves in different art forms. But not just art like on the wall. I mean rappers and musicians, dancers, anything that revolves around art.”
The Gallery runs off of donations from visitors and a percentage of the art that is sold during exhibits.
“Even if they put a dollar in, [it’s] the fact that they even gave and they know that this place exists and the artists are able to express themselves,” she said.
James Morgan Jr., owner of ‘Fluff and Em Florist’, believes since “people thrive on the village lifestyle,” he’s been able to remain one of the cornerstone shops in EAV after 16 years of business.
“My mother showed me the power of flowers,” Morgan said. “I would bring her dandelions and small flowers, and it always softened whatever struggles we were facing at the time.”
Originally working out of his basement, Morgan expanded his business to EAV because he loved the tight knit community and saw great potential in the area. A current resident, Morgan says he can see the evolution right before his eyes.
“When we first came here, ...it was an area in transition with no stability. ...but we decided that nothing would overcome our dream.”
Hodgepodge Coffeehouse72 Moreland Ave. SE
Carson Bryce Trading Company owner Carla Foster said her desire for true happiness and freedom from corporate strain inspired her to open up her eclectic apothecary store.
“I always wanted a mom and pop shop with treasures. I got tired of working in corporate America, so I started to develop a bit of a following through festivals.”
Foster explained her products as
a mix between bath and body goods and antiques. She takes pride in having “one of a kind” objects and creates natural home goods like body butter and organic soap while also selling women’s clothes and home décor.
“I really like making a unique display. I like the way my shop matches the diverse environment that it’s situated in. I just love the whole area, there’s such a sense of community.”
Carson Bryce Trading Company72 Moreland Ave. SE
The Gallery EAV49 Flat Shoals Ave. SE
Fluff and Em Florist Flat Shoals Ave. SE
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