When I first came to Atlanta many moons ago, as a college freshman, Roswell Road-area restaurants and music clubs were the farthest north I traveled. In those days, there were places called Confetti’s, Copperfields with The Beef Cellar downstairs, and — of course — Good Ol’ Days. They’re long gone, but other longtime establishments such as Cafe 290 jazz club and The Punchline (which recently relocated) still exist.
Back then, Ga. 400 seemed like a path to a foreign island called Alpharetta. I was perplexed by this seemingly far away place that people talked about.
I left Atlanta on two different occasions and on each return I was inspired to settle in North Fulton and Sandy Springs, having no idea a grassroots group had been fighting to make the community a city since 1950, or that its eventual cityhood would inspire other communities to do the same.
As I’ve become settled in my life and journalism work over the last 10 years, I’ve had an opportunity to explore exciting corners of what we now call the Northside: North Fulton, Dunwoody and East Cobb.
I spent time in Alpharetta’s horse country at its peak, visiting farms such as the 100-acre ranch with a mare motel for embryonic transplants, as well as others that raised champion stallions and show horses for clients locally and across the country.
I experienced art in fun ways, such as Matilda’s Cottage, also in Alpharetta, where visitors are welcomed by a variety of folk art in the front yard and entertained by live music in the back.
I’ve taken recreational and training runs through neighborhoods and parks from the steep hills of Huntcliff subdivision to the scenic banks of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
Over time, I’ve had the wonderful experience of seeing the Northside evolve and grow. Our writers are going to bring you all that it is and all that it’s becoming, in Living Northside magazine.
We’ll bring you features on where to take the family and what makes for a great date night. Each issue tours a neighborhood, introducing you to communities that may be just around the corner.
We’ll take you inside stylish homes in our private quarters section, possibly sparking your own whimsical notions.
Northsiders don’t have to reach far for entertainment. We’ve got fantastic stage shows from Georgia Ensemble Theatre and Act3 Productions, as well as inventive presentations at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and local high schools.
Most of all, we’re connected to you. Share the hidden gems and stories that you want us to know about at livingnorthsideeditor@gmail.com. But first, turn the page and see what we have for you in our debut issue.
Adrianne Murchsion
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