Downtown Stories

Stories from residents about life Downtown:

FROM SOUTH GEORGIA
Chris Raffield
August 2006

Chris Raffield was born and raised in south Georgia. He moved to Atlanta in 1993 to attend Georgia Tech, where he graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering in 1998. While in school Chris never imagined himself moving downtown, “most of the buildings we live in did not even exist as housing options,” said Chris. “Watching how downtown has changed in the past 13 years, has been amazing.”

After graduating from Georgia Tech, Chris worked for Siemens in their sales and marketing department for factory automation. In 2000, Chris resigned his position and began working on his graduate degree at Mercer University. While at Mercer, Chris met his wife Erin and they were married in the summer of 2002. In 2004, Chris graduated from Mercer with his Master of Divinity.

In the summer of 2004, Chris and Erin moved from Stone Mountain into the William Oliver Building on Peachtree Street to start a ministry that would reach out to the spiritual needs of the downtown community. Chris currently works as a software implementation consultant for a company based in Alpharetta. He spends most of his weeks on the road where he is able to experience other cities and hopefully gain ideas that he can bring back to help make our community even better.

When Chris is in town he enjoys being involved in neighborhood activities, hosting a Bible study that meets in his home on Sunday night, spending time outside riding his bike, running and walking his dog, Buzz.

For the past year, Chris has served as the Vice President of Finance for the ADNA Board. He also just finished serving his first year as a co-chair of the Atlanta Downtown Festival and Tour.

Chris is excited about the commitment that downtown residents have to community involvement and neighborhood improvement. “It is great to see people volunteer their free time to help improve their neighborhood and build community with their neighbors,” said Raffield. “It will be nice to look back in ten years to see the improvements of which we have all been a part.”

SMALL TOWN TO THE BIG CITY
Herb Ellis
June 2006

Herb Williams was born and raised in a small town of Statesboro, GA. He has shown a strong interest in art at very early age, which was noticed by Dr. Roslyn Reagan. She saw the potential and has guided your Herbert throughout his childhood, nurturing his talent. Herb participated in a program for young artists at the Daffodil Farm in Dalton, GA where he quickly excelled and improved his skills & techniques.

After graduating from Statesboro High School, Herb attended Georgia Southern University, majoring in fine arts. Simultaneously, he started to show more & more interest in barbering and the hair care industry. Herbert saw the potential for growth and the flexible schedule was ideal for a young budding artist, giving him ownership of his own time. In the 90’s he began his apprenticeship at a barber shop owned by a local pastor. He worked as an apprentice for 5 years. After completing the Georgia State Board exam, Herb decided to move to a big city and pursue his dream of owing a business.

With a plan in mind, he moved to Atlanta in 1996 and began to work towards this goal. Working as a barber at a downtown barbershop, he was saving up and constantly looking for the right opportunity to come by. In 2003, Williams found an open retail space perfect for his business. He signed a 5-year lease and began visualizing his dreams. Five months later, his first hair studio was born – Head Shots Hair Studio. While working and operating the studio, eight months later second opportunity he could not refuse presented itself. A well-renowned downtown barber, Bill White, after having serviced his clients for nearly 60 years, was announcing his retirement. Herbert took the change and decided to continue the tradition of the historical Healy Building Barber Shop. Now Vintage Hair Gallery under Williams’ ownership is still in its original historical décor and attracts many visitors.

With two businesses located in the downtown Atlanta area, Williams decided to join the Atlanta Downtown Neighborhood Association (ADNA) and get more involved in the community and its development. Today he serves on the ADNA board, representing the interest of local small business owners.

CANADA TO ATLANTA
By Deb Day
VP, Communications
May 2006

When I moved to Georgia from Canada in 1996, everyone told me not to live south of Dunwoody (the only thing Canadians know about Atlanta comes from watching the series “COPS”). So I settled with my daughter in Roswell, and that was fine for a few years while she was growing up but after she moved out to go to college, I headed downtown. I can’t imagine living in the suburbs now! Downtown is such an exciting place to be, with something going on all the time. I’ve met many great people through my affiliation with the ADNA that I can truly call friends. Living over at CPW, I call Centennial Park my front yard, without the maintenance. They even decorate it for my pleasure at Christmas!

I work as a Corporate Payroll Manager at a company just off of 285, and now the only time I venture to the suburbs is for church on Sunday. My whole world consists of Midtown and Downtown, and I’m excited that we are finally getting on the map. I tell everyone what a great place it is to live! Who would ever want to live anywhere else!

MY STORY
By Mary-Elizabeth Harmon
VP, Special Events
April 2006

1967, and it was a sweltering June day in Michigan…. I will spare you my attempts to channel (fill in name of favorite private eye writer here), and the details of my life that has lead me from Ann Arbor to Nairobi, Nairobi to Boston, Boston to Baltimore, Baltimore to Seattle, Seattle to D.C., and D.C. to Atlanta. For the moment, and a long moment I anticipate, I’ve decided to put aside all budding nomadic tendencies and gather moss in Atlanta. Unlike my fellow 2006 ADNA board members who you’ve had the pleasure of meeting through this column, I neither have my own business nor am I addicted to shoes, although I do very much enjoy wearing them. I’ll confess that I even suffered a twinge of dread at the thought of writing about myself, and I still haven’t come to resolution about what might interest you as I sit and compose. Well now that I’ve prepared you for what may prove to be stream of consciousness ramblings on Mary-Elizabeth, let me begin.

Despite having what acquaintances sometimes confuse as a “party girl” exterior and holding the VP of Special Events board position, I’m very content entertaining myself at home, folks. Over the years, I’ve passed time with hobbies including singing, wanna-be gourmet cooking, calligraphy, greeting card making, and interior decorating. And since I’ve just erased my street credibility as a disco diva, I might as well share, since that is the purpose of this exercise, that I’m attracted to people who bother to punctuate e-mails (really, I am).

Before I digress too far on that last thought, I’ll say that Atlanta has been a good move for me in many ways. The grassroots art scene here has helped me discover that I am more interested in contemporary art than I’d appreciated, both as a consumer and trying my hand at it. Also, more than any other city where I’ve lived, Atlanta has, more importantly, let me get connected with my community in a way that I feel empowered that I can make a change. I’m starting to sound serious, and although I’m coming to a close and still don’t know what I want to say, I do know that I want to keep it light-hearted.

Inspiration has still not come, and four paragraphs are probably sufficiently respectable by way of an introduction. After just reading what I’ve put on the page, I’m not really sure how I’ve represented myself. So I invite you all to seek me out at a community meeting, and let me ramble to you verbally. Just keep your eyes peeled for the party girl.

HEADING TO THE CITY
Chris Ciovacco
ADNA VP of Public Policy
March 2006

I moved my personal money management business, Ciovacco Capital Management, LLC, to Museum Tower in 2003. Downtown’s central location and excellent amenities at Museum Tower, including an impressive class A conference room, were attractive to assist in the continued growth my firm. My wife, Kathy, and I were also attracted to the proximity of Centennial Park and the numerous entertainment and cultural options located in the area. The ability to walk to Georgia Tech and Thrashers games was an added bonus to relocating downtown.

My interest in Public Policy for the ADNA is primarily motivated by what I see as a need for our neighborhood to become better connected to local business and government leaders. The ADNA finds itself at an important and opportunistic crossroads where increasing both our visibility and membership base continue to be of paramount importance. As a neighborhood organization, we can only hope to influence local leaders who ultimately make important decisions that affect

both the residential and business environment downtown. Leaders will listen to a large group of prospective voters who are organized and conduct themselves in a professional manner while becoming involved in the future of our community.

My vision for the ADNA is for our membership base to grow exponentially over the next few years as numerous new residential properties are developed. With an ever expanding membership and an organized and professional approach to local issues, the ADNA can build strong partnerships with local leaders, which will enable the organization to positively influence local policy decisions. I look forward to working with all of you in the years to come to create a vibrant and enjoyable place to live and work. There has never been a more important and opportunistic time to become involved with the ADNA. I invite all of you to contribute your time and talents as we work together to improve the place we call home.

Sharron Reeves
March 2006

When I decided to leave the suburbs and relocate to downtown Atlanta I chose the Centennial Hill area. Excitedly I shared details with all my family and friends. My new condo in Museum Tower was bounded by Baker and Simpson; street names I discovered are familiar to my 83-year-old Aunt Sara. She now lives in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, but grew up in south Fulton County and remembers Atlanta well.

Aunt Sara has lived an adventurous life, one that led her to New Orleans, government service in Washington, DC, and Honduras, and a second career as a business woman in metro DC. She is a quilter, a voracious reader, and a published author of knitting books and family genealogy. Best of all she is a wonderful storyteller! I asked Aunt Sara to reflect on her adventures as the country girl from "Goodes" near Palmetto, Georgia moving to an apartment in the big city.

No I-285 in the 1930’s so this doesn’t qualify as an OTP-to-ITP relocation but was still a major move for a young woman.

Her thoughts follow….

REMEMBERING
Sara W. Brooks
February 9, 2006

Long, long ago, well, it was before World War II, I lived in Atlanta. I shared an apartment with two other girls. One slept on the living room sofa, one slept on a pallet, which fit under the dining table when it wasn’t in use, and lucky me, I slept in the bedroom! I paid an extra 2 dollars a month for the privilege! One girl was a waitress, the other changed jobs often. I worked nights at Western Union and went to school at the University of Georgia Extension on Luckie Street.

I had small feet, and Chandler’s Shoe Store samples came in size 4! My size! Their new models came out in January and were shown in Miami. That fit in with my school break at UGExt, and I could get a week off from Western Union. I knew the manager of the Atlanta store so I got the job!

Chandler’s paid my round trip train fare and hotel bill, and paid me $5.00 a day for modeling their shoes. That was a lot of money in those days. I did have to share a room with two older girls who liked to do the night life, and always came in after a drink or two with the giggles, which woke me. But for five nights I could stand it! Also, I could buy any pair of shoes that I modeled for one dollar! In those days I loved high heeled shoes!

I went two or three times and loved seeing Miami! The weather wasn’t always great. It rained at least one time when I was there but who cared! I was in Miami!

Once on the train on the way home I went to sleep. I was awakened by a large woman trying to pull the bag with my new shoes from under my seat. I sprang up and grabbed it and said, “They wouldn’t fit you!” She insisted that they were falling and she caught the bag for me.

The years have passed. I don’t have pretty legs any more, and I definitely don’t wear spike heels.

Also, I haven’t been to Miami in twenty-five years, but I still remember.

Maria Balais
Feb. 2006

Since this column is supposed to allow members to get to know the 2006 ADNA board, you might as well know right off the bat that I love shoes. I love shoes on many levels, and for many reasons. Ironically, I don’t personally own a lot of shoes…well…perhaps I have more shoes than the average person, and a lot fewer than a true addict.

The thing about shoes is that you can tell a lot about a person by the type of shoes and the brand of shoes they wear. Generally speaking, if a person has on a stylish pair of shoes, under $200, but is not visibly sacrificing a pinky-toe to look good, then my “shoe-dar” tells me I could probably get along with that person. The “shoe-dar” is different for everyone, and this just happens to be how mine is wired.

As you can imagine, Downtown Atlanta is great fodder for my “shoe-dar,” and has reinforced the notion that our neighborhood

is truly a microcosm of the metro area. For example, on the corner of Broad St. and Marietta, next to the GSU College of Business, there is a bus stop. On that corner, I always see between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., dirty and dusty, men’s work boots in a size 8 or 9 waiting for the bus. The bodies attached to those shoes are Spanish speaking males.

On other occasions, I see a bright white, clean pair of men’s Nikes, roughly $295 retail, in a size 11 or 12, and the body attached to those shoes is begging for change. When I see that, it turns my stomach.

Some of my favorites are the classic black or brown, 2 inch pumps or Mary Janes, accessorizing the working women Downtown. If closed-toe, you can bet they work for a law-firm. Let’s not forget the classic penny loafers on the men. Boring, but worthy of mention as Downtown is supposed to be a center of commerce.

One of the most memorable pairs was last summer at the same bus stop on the corner of Marietta and Broad Sts. It was a pair of well worn, Wassimo open toe wedge sandals for women. It was obviously a style from two years ago. It’s roughly $18 retail at Target. (I know because I have the same pair in black). There were two other little feet next to hers; a children’s size 6, with Velcro fasteners, rubber-soled with the Little Mermaid on the side. Pink and brand new. The bodies attached to those shoes were giggling and holding hands. I think they were playing a game while waiting for the bus.

I blinked and thought of my mother. I thought about her old shoes, and the new ones she always made sure my sister and I got every year. I think perhaps she sometimes went 5 years without buying a new pair. We used to wait for the bus on the corner of 8 th St. and McCallie Ave. in Chattanooga, TN. We used to play games to pass the time too. My mother was a good single mother. I decided this woman

must also be a good single mother, at least in my heart I was really hoping she was.

So, have you gotten to know me yet? What else do you want to know? Why do I live Downtown? I live Downtown because it’s more interesting than penny loafers every week and boating shoes on the weekends. But if that’s not enough, here’s a summary: born Manila, Philippines 1971, received American citizenship 1990, BA from Agnes Scott College 1994, moved to Downtown Atlanta 1996, purchased first Downtown condo 1998, married Tony Stewart 1999. Currently works for the ING Foundation. No kids, no pets, no plants. Lots of shoes. For more details, you’ll have to read the book…it’s in the works.

Camille Smith
Jan. 2006

Although I am a native New Yorker, I have lived in Georgia for many years. I am a clinical social worker and for the past 10 years have been employed by the City of Atlanta department of Corrections. My current position is that of Client Services Manager. Over the years, I have served on the boards of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the Council on Battered Women. I am presently on the Maintenance Committee of my Homeowners Association.

I have lived downtown since 1995 and at Museum Tower since 2003. I also lived in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood for 12 years and actively participated in the neighborhood activities of WEND. I both support and appreciate in-town communities. I especially treasure Centennial Olympic Park. I came to the Park daily during the ' 96 Olympics. I reclaimed the Park immediately after the bombings.

As a new ADNA board member, I have chosen to become a part of the Communications Committee. I believe that my people skills and sense of humor will serve me well in this capacity as well as allow me the opportunity to become better acquainted with my fellow board members. Perception is reality for most people. My perception of the 2005 board was one of inclusion and unity, both elements of a strong sense of commitment and partnership. I
attribute much of this to Jay Tribby. His leadership has allowed me to see the uniqueness, enthusiasm and talent of individuals who can come together to speak in a collective voice. I am inspired and energized by this achievement.

Diane Goodhart, CMG
Dec. 2002

My vision has always been to live Downtown, since I grew up in a small town with sidewalks. Last March, I sold my home in the suburbs and my vision became a reality. I live at 123 Luckie Street Lofts and every day I get up, I feel so energized and happy! No matter what the weather, I walk my dog Spirit who will only go to Centennial Park -- it is like her own little park. My local restaurant that I frequent is Icon. I'm known there and drop in for drinks or dinner.

There is so much available to you Downtown if you want it. Or just being a part of it by living here. I go the Fox, ride MARTA to it and feel completely comfortable. I love it Downtown and can't imagine living anywhere else. There are so many choices, that is the hard part. What can I not do rather than "what can I do?"

James Pennymon
"Madison House resident since '95, a Downtown dweller for life!
Dec. 2002

I'm one of those people that live in a Downtown building, but not too much is said about my chosen dwelling. I have a professional job and have been living here since 1995 (but lived previously from '92-95 on Ralph McGill in the highrise building that is now The Arbors), and this will make my seventh Christmas on 87 Walton Street at the Madison building, on the corner of Cone street.

From my apartment window, I have seen so much change and growth, which I must say, was welcomed with excitement and delight. I remember being awakened in the morning to the sounds of cranes and pile drivers making way for the wonderful 123 Luckie Street condominiums. I saw the rush of development of the building that is now 90 Fairlie; a fabulous display of interior design creativity. Seeing my new neighbors was something I looked forward to and knew to be inevitable. Who could let those old buildings, like the Healey, just sit there without tenants?

Now that so much has happened with the Fairlie-Poplar district, I feel like I live in a miniature Greenwich Villiage, but without all the cool shops, diverse groups of people, and late night attractions. It's sad that I still have to drive to Midtown or Buckhead to party and hang out, but I know that it's coming Downtown. Though we have an issue with the homeless and personal safety, it's still not a reason to close downtown at 11 p.m. Many wonderful cities have the same issues, but they continue to lavish in their downtown glamour and attitude without a second thought.

Nevertheless, living Downtown has been a blessing. I will eventually move to either Kirkwood or Grant Park, but then I think, where else can you walk outside your door, pay your utilities, go to CVS for toiletries, get some grub from Micky D's or CNN Center (which we used to be able to also catch a movie there, unfortunately it's gone), go to a basketball game, listen to great music at Centennial Park or Woodruff for relaxing waterfalls (also from the top of my roof, watch all the fireworks!), go to Macy's for some last minute shopping for a hip jazz shin-dig at Icon or urban flavor at Level 3 nightclub for later that night, then find some hot shoes from Florsheims on Marietta, and NEVER HAVE TO GET IN YOUR CAR AND POLLUTE THE ENVIRONMENT. (Could someone please hand out driving tips to the suburbanites that come here for events at Phillips Arena!

Evanthe "Sam" Ledbetter
Dec. 2002

My name is Sam Ledbetter. I went to one of your meetings. It was pretty interesting. I have lived at the Landmark four years now; I truly love the view. I live here and in Florida. I have started to spend more time in Atlanta. I find downtown living a bit different. There are good points and bad points. Some of the better points are that we have the MARTA system and plenty of rental car agencies near by. Being close to Centennial, Turner Field, GWCC, Philips Arena, and the Dome is the bomb! Since my building is located near the hotels, there are no high-rise neighbors. So we try to create a little community within ourselves. We have an events committee and the of the events we are having is a building Christmas party on Monday. I am excited about it.