The dining space marries the kitchen and living room with a black-and-white motif that incorporates a cowhide rug. Debbie Galey refinished the wooden table to match the rest of the decor.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The stonework and bold angles rising out of a wooded lot drew in Mark Galey, who purchased the Sandy Springs home in 2015. His wife, Debbie, chose a gray-blue shade of Behr Premium Plus Ultra to refresh the exterior...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The stonework and bold angles rising out of a wooded lot drew in Mark Galey, who purchased the Sandy Springs home in 2015. His wife, Debbie, chose a gray-blue shade of Behr Premium Plus Ultra to refresh the exterior...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

A red double-Adirondack bench and chair give the stone exterior a burst of color, underneath an abstract metal shark Mark Galey found fixed to a tree on a friend's property.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

Around the fire pit, tractor seats found at what's known as "the world's longest yard sale" were the perfect seating solution. Painted red and fixed atop logs, the seats have the added ability to swivel.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The Galeys made or refurbished much of their unique furniture, including this piece of wood that Debbie covered in a thick layer of lacquer and turned into an outdoor bench. Behind the low fence, the couple's kayaks...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

Natural wood pieces are among the Native American decor that the couple uses in their home.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

From a trip to the Petrified Forest in Arizona, a piece of petrified wood brings a pop of color and history to the living room. Text and photos by Fast Copy News Service's Kat Khoury and Reynolds Rogers.

Bold stitching in the Jesolo electric reclining sofa from Ashley Furniture HomeStore, which features a USB charger, helps tie the modern piece into the Native American-inspired living room, along with a cowhide...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

While much of the Native American and Western-themed art came from the couple's travels, some pieces, like skulls, antlers and rocks, were handed down to Mark Galey from his family.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

Natural light floods the living space through the large windows during the day, illuminating the unique, carved steer-head Mark Galey found in Austin, Texas. The home, designed in 1962 by architect James Keelin...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The Galeys expanded the bathroom by 4 inches and added elements like heated Schluter floors from Traditions in Tile and Stone, a raised Infinity by Marvin window for light and privacy, a Crowderslide accordion door...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The Galeys have spent time collecting pieces that stand out, including the 1956 Buick hood ornaments repurposed as handles for the reclaimed wood door. Another door sports an antique pair of ice tongs welded into...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The pew was once 20 feet long, but the couple shortened it, removed the padding and orange upholstery, raised it to a comfortable seating height and refinished with a distressed look. Brought from the old house...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

In the dining room and kitchen, a hue of Silver Dust (a Behr Premium Plus Ultra paint) is accented by dark furniture like the hutch, an antique auction find from Roswell that's been repurposed as a dry bar. Text...HANDOUT

Modern, white dining chairs and barstools at the kitchen island bring an element of sophistication and cohesiveness across the remodeled space. Text and photos by Fast Copy News Service's Kat Khoury and Reynolds...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The Galeys kept the kitchen cabinets, but spruced them up with a fresh coat of Silver Dust, a Behr Premium Plus Ultra paint. Also original to the house are three skylights strategically placed for the best natural...Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The Sandy Springs kitchen, illuminated by glass pendants and a window over the sink, is updated with stainless steel appliances by General Electric, LG and Kenmore.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

In order to make a bedroom larger, a closet was removed where the bed now rests on the recessed wall. The result is a cozy space with a bright, coastal feeling.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

The vintage bed frame in the master bedroom was updated by homeowners Debbie Galey. Text and photos by Fast Copy News Service's Kat Khoury and Reynolds Rogers.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

Mark Galey owns Master Home Remodelers in Atlanta. He and his wife, Debbie, purchased their Sandy Springs home in 2015 and remodeled portions of it.Text by Kat Khoury/ Photos by Reynolds Rogers

March 1964 -- The Kmart store at 4070 Bankhead Avenue. Atlanta area photographer Tracy O’Neal took a variety of pictures of Kmarts and, in the early ‘60s, Kresge stores around the metro area. Here are some of them...

March 1964 -- The Kmart store at 4070 Bankhead Avenue. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

May 1964 -- The Marietta Kmart store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

May 1964 -- Interior of the Marietta Kmart store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- Night view of the large Kmart Plaza sign during the opening of the Cleveland Avenue SW store in Atlanta. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- Exterior view of the new Kmart Plaza during the opening of the Cleveland Avenue SW store in Atlanta. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- The staff poses for a group photo before the opening of the new Cleveland Avenue SW Kmart. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- The Kmart Plaza store opening at Cleveland Avenue SW in Atlanta draws a large crowd. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- Interior of the new Kmart at Cleveland Avenue SW in Atlanta during its opening. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- Clerks help a shopper at checkout during the opening of the new Cleveland Avenue SW Kmart. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

November 1964 -- Clothing for sale at the Kmart store on Cleveland Avenue SW in Atlanta. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

July 1966 -- The Kmart Auto Service Center at 5925 Roswell Road. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

July 1966 -- Cash registers inside the Kmart at 5925 Roswell Road. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

July 1966 -- Interior of the Kmart at 5925 Roswell Road. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

July 1966 -- Records and paper towels for sale inside the Kmart at 5925 Roswell Road. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

July 1966 -- Interior of the Kmart at 5925 Roswell Road. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

The predecessors to Kmart were the S.S. Kresge Company stores. In 1899, Sebastian Spering Kresge founded what would become one of America’s largest discount retail chains. At its peak in 2000, Kmart operated 2,171...

1960 -- An S.S. Kresge Company store under construction. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- The new Kresge store as it looked when completed. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

May 1960 -- Kresge Stores employees pose for a photo at the North Decatur Road store in Decatur. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Interior of the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- The Decatur Kresge store’s snack bar. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- The lunch counter at the Decatur Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- The kitchen at the North Decatur Road Kresge store. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

1960 -- Another view of the Kresge luncheonette area. TRACY O’NEAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION / GSU

Friday Night football: Westminster linebacker Matthew Schmal (55) celebrates after Friday's 22-21 victory over GAC in Norcross. (Jason Getz/Special)

Westminster defensive back Charlie Edmiston (11) deflects a pass intended for GAC wide receiver Jake Floyd (3) in the second half of Friday's game in Norcross. Westminster prevailed 22-21. (Jason Getz/Special)

Westminster running back Will Hallmark (22) reacts after scoring a touchdown against GAC in the second half of Friday's game in Norcross. (Jason Getz/Special)

Westminster running back Will Hallmark (22) scores a touchdown against GAC defensive back Joseph Rose (15) in the second half at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. Westminster won...

GAC running back Tyler Bride (4) is tackled by Westminster defensive back Chance Loeffler (12) and a teammate in the second half at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. Westminster...

Friday Night Football: North Fulton foes square off as Milton faces Alpharetta. Alpharetta WR Robbie Ruppel (13) hangs on to a pass for a TD as Milton CB Uriah Mellem (12) defends. (John Amis/Special)

Milton WR Dylan Leonard (2) runs against the defense of Jackson Michaels (11) and Jared Rumph (6) during- high school football featuring Milton at Alpharetta on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. John Amis/Special

Alpharetta High School football team arrives for a high school football game against Milton on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. (John Amis/Special_

Milton's Hayden Hairston (35) celebrates after his field goal in Friday's game against Alpharetta. John Amis/Special

A football is shown before the high school football game against Westminster and GAC at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. PHOTO / JASON GETZ

Milton CB Tyreek Rock (1) tries to get his hand on the ball before Alpharetta's Austin Frazier (24) - high school football featuring Milton at Alpharetta on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. (John Amis/Special)

Alpharetta's Kent Cherry rushes against Milton - high school football featuring Milton at Alpharetta on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. (John Amis/Special)

GAC defensive end Chris Hinton (74) warms-up before their game against Westminster at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. PHOTO / JASON GETZ

GAC's Chris Hinton (74) pursues Westminster quarterback Parks Harber (6) in the first half of their game at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. (Jason Getz/Special)

Westminster quarterback Parks Harber (6) eludes the tackle of GAC linebacker Choe Bryant-Strother (22) in the first half of their game at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. PHOTO...

GAC wide receiver Jake Floyd (3) is tackled after a reception by Westminster defensive backs Chance Loeffler (12) and Michael Mahan (2) in the first half of their game at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August...

GAC quarterback Josh Rose (11) celebrates his rushing touchdown in the first half against Westminster at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. PHOTO / JASON GETZ

Westminster quarterback Parks Harber (6) is tackled short of the goal line by GAC defensive back Ty James (13) in the first half of their game at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga...

GAC wide receiver Ty James (13) celebrates a touchdown reception with offensive lineman Addison Nichols (72) in the first half of their game against Westminster at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018...

Westminster running back Paul Weatherington (4) is tackled by GAC defensive back Evan Byrd (2) in the first half of their game at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. PHOTO / JASON...

Westminster running backs Paul Weatherington (4) and Will Hallmark (22) celebrate Hallmark's touchdown in the first half in their game against GAC at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross...

Westminster wide receiver Nance Hill (21) and running back Paul Weathington (4) celebrate their win against GAC at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross, Ga. Westminster won 22-21. PHOTO...

GAC wide receiver Ty James (13) reacts after Westminster defensive back John O. Izlar (8) and teammates deflected a pass intended for James to turn over the ball in the closing minutes of their game at Greater Atlanta...

Milton QB Jordan Yates passes during Friday's game. (John Amis/Special)

Milton RB Joseph Charleston (28) reaches for a pass as Alpharetta LB Nick Haven (21) defends. (John Amis/Special)

The moon rises over Milton fans filling the stands at Raider Stadium Friday. (John Amis/Special)

GAC wide receiver Ty James (13) can't haul in a reception against the defense of Westminster defensive back Michael Mahan (2) in the second half at Greater Atlanta Christian Friday, August 24, 2018, in Norcross...

August 23, 1990 -- Jason James, 13, from Stockbridge, waits at the front gate to Fort Gillem in Forest Park with an American flag as convoys of the 101st Airborne stop for an overnight stay before continuing their...

August 26, 1965 -- Surprise, surprise! This view down Forsyth Street downtown proves whatever the decade, you won't catch a break from Atlanta traffic. GUY HAYES / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 25, 1943 -- In 1943, the Atlanta-Southern Dental College was almost altogether a training institution for the armed forces. Of the 374 students, 341 were members of Army and Navy training units taking as...

August 24, 1989 -- Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games members, including Billy Payne (front left), International Olympic Committee members and their party meet Thursday with Mayor Andrew Young in his office...

August 17, 1977 -- Oz Records on Peachtree Street remembers Elvis Presley with a marquee message. Presley died one day earlier, stunning the music world. BUD SKINNER / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVESajc staff

August 27, 1960 -- Presidential candidate Richard Nixon and wife Pat campaign in Atlanta during a downtown parade. John F. Kennedy ended up winning the state and its 12 electoral college votes. DOZIER MOBLEY / AJC...

August 30, 1961 -- Three African American students (Willie Jean Black, Donita Gaines, Arthur Simmons) leaving Northside High School (later North Atlanta High School) on the first day of its racial integration. Unlike...

August 1949 -- Pallbearers lead the casket of Margaret Mitchell during the funeral service at Atlanta's Oakland Cemetery. The author died on Aug. 16 when she was hit by a car on Peachtree Street in Midtown. AJC...

August 27, 1950 -- Carolyn Carter, the first woman photographer for The Atlanta Constitution, climbs atop a light tank. Willard Neal, at the right, wrote the story. AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 6, 1971 -- Walter Botts strikes his Uncle Sam pose during a visit to Atlanta. In 1938, artist James Montgomery Flagg was drawing an Army recruiting poster, and he asked Botts, a musician, to pose as Uncle...

August 16, 1949 -- Panoramic view of recently renovated Atlanta Municipal Market on Edgewood Avenue shows new lighting system and display stalls. Also known as the Sweet Auburn Curb Market, the building opened in...

August 5, 1984 -- Spiderman was one of the many superheroes, elves, dragons, and movie characters who appeared at that year's Atlanta Fantasy Fair in the Costume Contest. The Atlanta Fantasy Fair was held August...

Aug. 15, 1983 -- Dan Sweat speaks at a World Series Task Force press conference. The task force chairman, Shirley Franklin, stands to the right. The 30-member group was created to plan the city's celebrations in...Nona Boyd/AJC

Aug. 19, 1988 -- Cheshire Bridge Road just being Cheshire Bridge Road, with its hodgepodge of ethnic restaurants, bars and lingerie-modeling services. LOUIE FAVORITE / AJC FILE PHOTOLouie Favorite/AJC

August 1955 -- Workers move in to fill a huge chasm under Ponce de Leon Avenue across the street from where Mary Mac's Tearoom is today. The cavity at Penn Avenue extends 42 1/2 feet below the street and is 25 feet...Van Toole/AJC staff

August 11, 1989 -- Dale Murphy is congratulated by a team bat boy after his 376th homer, making him the all-time Atlanta Braves home run king. FRANK NIEMEIR / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 15, 1948 -- WSB-TV employees are shown broadcasting on location, the same year that the station was granted its broadcasting license. AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 2, 1926 -- Crowds throng the streets for the grand opening of the Sears, Roebuck & Co. building on Ponce de Leon Avenue. Sears remained in the building until 1987 before it became reborn first as City...Atlanta History Center

August 1966 -- Miss Freedom gets some attention from an unidentified worker on the Georgia State Capitol dome. DWIGHT ROSS JR. / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVESAJC

August 15, 1965 -- Two Atlanta police officers phone in to the station during the night watch. Only three years earlier, African-American APD officers were given the authority to arrest whites. MARION CROWE / AJC...

August 26, 1978 -- "When are we gonna BE there?" Visitors to Six Flags Over Georgia make their way via parking lot shuttles to the amusement park for a day of fun. A brochure from that year advertised attractions...

August 1930s -- Children swim and fish in Clara Meer at Piedmont Park. The stone bathhouse building in the background was constructed in 1926. AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 20, 1974 -- Two boys jump from twin diving boards at the Pittman Park pool. CALVIN CRUCE / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 1, 1966 -- An Atlanta Police sergeant looks over a reward poster for information on the Mary Shotwell Little disappearance. Little, a newlywed, failed to show for work in 1965 and has never been seen since...

August 1951 -- Atlanta Constitution editor/publisher Ralph McGill chats with poet Carl Sandburg. The two men became close friends after McGill interviewed Sandburg that year (perhaps during the meeting in this photo)...

August 6, 1978 -- Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson works at clearing kudzu during the First Annual Great Park Cross Country Run and Kudzu Kaper in East Atlanta. CHARLES R. PUGH JR. / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 14, 1945 -- A soldier and a woman embrace on V-J Day ("Victory over Japan Day") on Peachtree Street in Atlanta. That day, the Peachtree Street was mobbed with celebrants throwing confetti. AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 2, 1980 -- The Falcons' David Becker gets a drink of water during team workouts. That year, the Falcons would go 12-4 and finish first in the NFC-West. STEVE DEAL / AJC PHOTO ARCHIVES

August 25, 1946 -- Elias Nour rescues a dog on top of Stone Mountain. Nour, who moved from Lebanon to Stone Mountain at age 10, became famous for being an expert climber of the mountain. By the time of his death...

August 18, 1965 -- Southern-fried Beatlemania hit Atlanta Stadium during the Fab Four's U.S. tour. The band was only in town for 10 hours but the visit produced what the group called the best sound of their U.S...

August 1971 -- Richard Rich (left), chairman of the board of Rich, Inc. assists Willard G. Rouse, vice chairman of the board of Rouse Co., in unveiling Perimeter Mall's 30-foot papier mache ice cream cone, the symbol...Bita Honarvar/Special

Workers inspect the metal tubing created at the American BOA Inc. manufacturing plant in Cumming, Thursday, August 2, 2018. -- Text in this gallery by Michael E. Kanell and Alyssa Pointer, AJC. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA...Alyssa Pointer

Alejandra Ferrel welds metal tubing at the American BOA Inc. manufacturing plant. Ferrel is one of 300 workers at American BOA in Cumming who make metal “bellows” used as sleeves in vehicle engine and exhaust systems...Alyssa Pointer

Products created at the American BOA Inc. manufacturing plant in Cumming are displayed, including a metal cylinder covered in a braided metal tube. Half the steel used for the metal bellows comes from Europe and...Alyssa Pointer

Vincente Delphin, Jr., director of the automotive business unit at American BOA Inc., watches over production. American BOA hasn’t raised prices to cover the higher costs yet, but it needs to, Delphin tells the...Alyssa Pointer

Car, truck and auto parts manufacturers rely heavily on foreign-made steel and aluminum, which are now taxed an extra 25 percent and 10 percent. “The president is right to go after the bad guys in this, but I have...Alyssa Pointer

Tube Mill operator Steve Blakely inspects metal tubes before stacking them at the American BOA Inc. manufacturing plant in Cumming. The 54,000 auto industry jobs in Georgia account for more than 206,000 jobs in...Alyssa Pointer

Level three quality technician LaMar McDougal measures the width of the convolution of a metal hose. When tariffs hit, a small company may not be able to pass along higher costs, said Motor & Equipment Manufacturers...Alyssa Pointer

The president argues he can revive many of those lost industries by taking a hard line on U.S. trading partners and forcing them to renegotiate more favorable terms for American exports. President Trump instituted...Alyssa Pointer

Workers are busy at the Bellows Hydroforming area at the American BOA Inc. manufacturing plant. Nearly 24,000 people in Georgia work for more than 40 vehicle parts suppliers – nearly twice as many as just seven...Alyssa Pointer

Maya Patel, a kindergarten student in the dual language immersion program at Level Creek Elementary School, raises her hand during the first day of school at Level Creek Elementary School on Monday, August 6. Jenna...Jenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

Ana Fogle-Weekley, a kindergarten student, colors a picture during the first day of school at Level Creek Elementary School. Jenna Eason / Jenna.Eason@coxinc.comJenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

Kerri Griffin, a kindergarten teacher at Level Creek Elementary School, talks to her students, Ana Fogle-Weekley and Owen DeGeorge. Griffin teaches one of the dual language immersion classes. Jenna Eason / Jenna...Jenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

A young boy poses for a photo against the brick walls of Peachcrest Elementary School on the first day of school, Monday, August 6, 2018. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Peachcrest Elementary School assistant principal Stan Gaddis welcomes a student back for the new year. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Here’s the back to school scene at Hamilton E. Holmes Elementary in East Point. BOB ANDRES/AJC

Youngsters get a hearty welcome back. BOB ANDRES/AJC

A good breakfast makes for a great start to the school year. BOB ANDRES/AJC

One last hug before heading off to class. BOB ANDRES/AJC

Learning to line up and wait your turn is an important first lesson for kids. BOB ANDRES/AJC

Just about ready to head into the building after the first day’s bus ride. BOB ANDRES/AJC

Is summer break really over? Sigh... BOB ANDRES/AJC

First day back traffic: The school drop-off line. BOB ANDRES/AJC

The new year brings a mix of new faces and some of the older kids who have this school thing down pat. BOB ANDRES/AJC

Brumby Elementary School principal Amanda Richie greets students and parents as they enter the school during the first day in Marietta, Wednesday, August 1, 2018. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Students wait to be guided to their teachers during the first day of school at Brumby Elementary. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

8/1/18 - Atlanta - Peyton Forest principal Cynthia Gunner, along with teachers and staff, gets ready to great students with a circus theme. It was the first day of school at Peyton Forest Elementary school, which...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Second grade teacher Megan Donnelly greets her students during the first day of school at Brumby Elementary School. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Donnelly (left) greets Aniya Bowden (right) during the first day of school at Brumby Elementary School. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Paraprofessional educator Purity Kamau (center) directs a group of second graders to their classroom during the first day of school at Brumby Elementary.  (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Second grader Aniya Bowden smiles at her desk before class begins during the first day of school at Brumby Elementary. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Robert Hill holds his grandson Scotty while using an umbrella to cover his granddaughter Jasmine as they walk to the entrance of Brumby Elementary School during the first day of school. Hill was at the school to...Alyssa Pointer

Seniors complete interactive math lessons during the first day of school at Harrison High School in Kennesaw, Wednesday, August 1, 2018. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Students tour the hallway during the first day of school at Harrison High. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

An empty classroom is set up for the new school year during the first day of school at Harrison High. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

A class schedule is displayed during the first day of school at Harrison High. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Choir instructor Megan Schuitema listens as her students sing a scale during the first day of school at Harrison High. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Math teacher Amy Shaffer works with her students during the first day of school at Harrison High. (ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)Alyssa Pointer

Portia Langley, from Atlanta Stilt Dancing, was on hand to great Students at Peyton Forest Elementary. It was the first day of school at Peyton Forest Elementary school, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students walk through the Peyton Forest Elementary parking lot as they arrive for school with their families. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

The first school bus arrives at the school. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Kids and parents enjoyed the circus-themed welcome back. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

The Peyton Forest kids are all smiles, but a busy school day awaits. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Aleyah Jackson, 4, has breakfast in the cafeteria with her grandmother, June Crawford, as she starts her first day of Pre-K. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Xavier Williams, 5, is led by his mom as they search for his kindergarten class. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen, wearing a Peyton Forest t-shirt, visited the school. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen, wearing a Peyton Forest t-shirt, had chicken and waffles with the pre-k and kindergarten students. They also got popcorn. Carstarphen has visited various APS schools every year...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students are introduced to a math assignment in Hannah Reisman's class. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen helps London Williams with her math assignment in Hannah Reisman's class. “I think that the first day attendance, the first day participation -- whether it’s staff or students...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

You bet math is fun: The Peyton Forest kids didn’t waste any time getting down to the tricky business of addition. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students and their families arrive for the first day of school at Boyd Elementary School. Superintendent Meria Carstarphen continued her back-to-school tour of APS schools with a stop here. BOB ANDRES ...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen continued her back-to-school tour of APS schools with a stop at Boyd Elementary, and gave out stickers to students before visiting some classrooms. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen takes one of her traditional Day One selfies with students, staff and parents at Boyd Elementary. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Carstarphen greets students in Traci Cohen's 3rd grade class. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students in Traci Cohen’s 3rd grade class are introduced to Superintendent Meria Carstarphen. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students are attentive to the day's lesson in Jenethia Forte's 4th grade ELA / Social Studies class. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Emily Costine, a kindergarten teacher at Level Creek Elementary School, helps her student, Leland Griffin, get in his seat. Jenna Eason / Jenna.Eason@coxinc.comJenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

Emily Costine, a kindergarten teacher at Level Creek Elementary School, helps her student, Arianna Sims, during the first day of school at Level Creek Elementary. Jenna Eason / Jenna.Eason@coxinc.comJenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

Carmen Herrera, a kindergarten paraprofessional teacher at Level Creek Elementary School, helps a student, Olivia Washington, in a dual language immersion class during the first day of school. Jenna Eason / Jenna...Jenna Eason/Jenna.Eason@coxinc.com

James Jackson Elementary teacher Shandi Robbins gets a hug from a student on the first day of school Monday, August 6, 2018, in Jonesboro. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSchaefer

Para-pro Shaniqua Layne walks Kayla Tran into James Jackson Elementary. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSteve Schaefer

Kids head into James Jackson Elementary on the first day of school. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSteve Schaefer

Arturo Oliver and his wife Elizabeth walk their child Kayla into James Jackson Elementary. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSteve Schaefer

School crossing guard Freda Stafford directs traffic in front of James Jackson Elementary. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSteve Schaefer

Meanwhile, across the street from Jackson Elementary School, Zadyah Royster and Ahania Gover are dropped off at Jonesboro High School on the first day of school. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJCSteve Schaefer

The UGA Savannah River Ecology Laboratory Herpetology Program (http://srelherp.uga.edu) offers everything you need to know to stay safe around snakes. Make sure you visit their website for everything you’d ever...

SCARLET SNAKE -- They’re small and skinny and yes, it’s understandable that folks might mistake them for coral snakes, which are highly venomous. You won’t see them during the day since they’re active at night....

BLACK RACER -- Found from southern Maine to Florida, black racers are active during the day, make their homes in a variety of Southeast habitats and snack on insects, birds, rodents, amphibians, etc. But if you...

RINGNECK SNAKE -- As the name suggests, this common snake has a distinguishing ring around its neck and may have a yellow or orange belly. Northern ringnecks are found in the mountains while the southern subspecies...

EASTERN INDIGO SNAKE -- In Georgia, you’ll have to head south to find this large blue-black snake, the longest native to the U.S.. They’re active only in the daytime and they enjoy a nice buffet of varied prey --...

CORN SNAKE -- This is a juvenile, which looks quite different from...

... an adult. CORN SNAKES get a raw deal (or the business end of a hoe) thanks to often being mistaken for venomous copperheads. But look closely -- the corn snakes blotches are square; the copperhead’s are hourglass-shaped...

RAT SNAKES may be black, yellow or gray and have a wide range throughout the eastern and midwestern U.S. You’ll find them throughout the state of Georgia.  They also thrive in a variety of diverse habitats, from...

Here’s a juvenile RAT SNAKE, whose favorite snacks include small rodents and frogs as well as lizards. INFO BY: J.D. Willson.

The yellow RAT SNAKE is found along the Georgia coast. INFO BY: Trey Dunn - edited by Whit Gibbons.

You’ll find gray RAT SNAKES along the Savannah River in southern South Carolina and in south Georgia. INFO BY: Trey Dunn - edited by Whit Gibbons.

MUD SNAKES rarely come out of  the water, preferring to hide in the aquatic vegetation and various wetlands that make up their habitat. In Georgia, you’ll mostly find them to the south in the Coastal Plain. Amphibians...

This young MUD SNAKE has a vibrant red and black coloration. INFO BY: J.D. Willson.

RAINBOW SNAKES are, like mud snakes, rarely seen outside of the swamps and other water sources in which they live. As their name suggests, these snakes are multi-colored with black, red, pink and yellow scales....

With the nickname “puff adder,” the EASTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE sounds dangerous  and puts on quite a show when threatened, hissing and lunging as it spreads its head and neck skin like a cobra. But these non-venomous...

The SOUTHERN HOGNOSE SNAKE is far less common, found in the sandy and coastal areas of North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and some parts of south Alabama. They also enjoy snacking on toads and put on a threat...

The MOLE KINGSNAKE, though rarely seen, makes its home throughout the PIedmont region of the Southeastern U.S. While they spend  most of their time out of sight, you may run across them in open areas like fields...

If you fear venomous snakes, consider yourself lucky if you have a resident EASTERN KINGSNAKE in your yard. These big snakes eat copperheads, rattlesnakes and cottonmouths, along with other snakes, rodents and turtle...

The SCARLET KINGSNAKE is often mistaken for the venomous Eastern coral snake due to its coloration. As SRELHerp writes on its site, these snakes “typically have alternating bands of red, black, and yellow in which...

EASTERN MILKSNAKES , too, are often mistaken for venomous snakes -- specifically, the copperhead. But these harmless snakes are beneficial to anyone looking to keep rodent populations down. You’ll likely find them...

If it’s daytime and it’s hot, you may come across a COACHWHIP -- unless you’re in the North Georgia mountains. These long, slender snakes love sandy soils, such as those in the Georgia Coastal Plain region, and...

The RED-BELLIED WATERSNAKE makes its home in a large swath of south Georgia, excepting the deep southeastern area of the state. They’re found in lakes, creeks, rivers, wetlands and swamps. Amphibians and fish are...

Another non-venomous snake often mistaken for the copperhead is the BANDED WATERSNAKE. These snakes are harmless, however, unless you’re a fish or an amphibian and it’s a banded watersnake’s lunchtime. These water-lovers...

Here’s another look at the banded watersnake.

The GREEN WATERSNAKE is found primarily in Florida, but you’ll find them also in deep south Georgia and along the Savannah River area near the far southern tip of South Carolina. Swamps and marshes are their habitat...

NORTHERN WATERSNAKES are regularly mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth (water moccasin), but these hefty watersnakes are non-venomous. While cottonmouths are generally found only in Georgia’s Coastal Plain, northern...

BROWN WATERSNAKES are large, hefty snakes. Because they prefer fish as prey, they’re more likely to be found in reservoirs and other areas that are permanent water sources. These watersnakes live in the Piedmont...

You’ll find ROUGH GREEN SNAKES climbing in vegetation on the hunt for the insects and spiders they eat. These long, thin snakes are found throughout Georgia and are a protected species in the state. INFO BY: J.D...

Although non-venomous, PINE SNAKES are a threatened species in Georgia and are protected. They’re big, heavy-bodied burrowing snakes that will strike when approached. Pine snakes are found in Georgia’s Coastal Plain...

The STRIPED CRAYFISH SNAKE is found only in a small part of extreme southern Georgia and is a protected species. Rarely seen, these aquatic snakes mostly feed on hard-shelled crayfish (hence their name) or shrimp...

GLOSSY CRAYFISH SNAKES are more prevalent in Georgia’s Coastal Region than the striped crayfish snake, but are similarly water-loving and secretive. Like their striped cousins, they eat mostly crayfish and are rarely...

QUEEN SNAKES also primarily feast on newly molted crayfish, avoiding the hard-shelled variety. Less secretive than their glossy and striped cousins, queen snakes are mostly active during the day and are often found...

Rare in Georgia, the PINE WOODS SNAKE is found mainly in Florida and is also scattered along the Coastal Plain of the southeastern US. They prefer wetland margin areas and woodland habitats, eat other snakes along...

Unless you’re spending your days in boggy, highly-vegetated wetlands you’ll probably not see the BLACK SWAMP SNAKE. These small, black aquatic snakes with bright red bellies are found throughout Florida and along...

Odds are, you’ve come across a BROWN SNAKE while gardening or mowing the lawn or generally being outside in the spring and summer here in metro Atlanta. These shy, harmless snakes are unfortunately often mistaken...

REDBELLIED SNAKES make their home throughout the eastern US, excepting the Florida peninsula. Although related to the brown snake, redbellied snakes are creatures of the forest, generally spurning the suburbs where...

Small and similar in appearance to the brown snake, the FLORIDA BROWN SNAKE is far less widespread than its cousin. They’re found only along the extreme southeastern coast and Okefenokee area of Georgia and are...

SOUTHEASTERN CROWNED SNAKES are distinguished by the black bands on their heads. You’ll find them in a variety of southeastern US states, but they are absent from southern Georgia and the Florida peninsula. They...

Where the Southeastern Crowned Snake is absent, the FLORIDA CROWNED SNAKE is prevalent. They’re mostly found in peninsular central Florida (hence their name) and has been found in only a few extreme south Georgia...

EASTERN RIBBON SNAKES resemble their cousins, eastern garter snakes, but are more slender and are differently striped. They’re found throughout the eastern US, excepting the Appalachian Mountains. Semiaquatic, these...

It’s easy to see how EASTERN GARTER SNAKES and their cousins, eastern ribbon snakes, are confused. Both are distinctively striped, both prefer habitats near water and both feed on fish and amphibians. But garter...

In Georgia, the ROUGH EARTH SNAKE makes its home mainly in the central and southern areas of the state. It’s rare in the Piedmont region and is absent from southwest Georgia and peninsular Florida. These small,...

The SMOOTH EARTH SNAKE is a heavy-bodied snake with a pointed snout. More prevalent throughout the state of Georgia and the southeastern US, the smooth earth snake is, like its rough-scaled relative, absent from...

When the sun sets, Johns Creek homeowner Neelima Kanneganti said the view of the trees and sky through the 15 windows looks like an ever-changing painting.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A charcoal leather sofa from Macy's and creamy armchairs with a matching wood coffee table and side table from Z Gallerie offer seating without blocking the views in the two-story window-filled living room.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

An elephant statue from Pier1 Imports on a side table greets visitors, which Neelima Kanneganti said is similar to how horses and elephants are placed near the entrance of homes in India to greet guests.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/Christopher Oquendo Photographer

The marble fireplace wall is flanked by an octagonal floor mirror from Z Gallerie and a modern canvas print, Luke II by Christie Adelle, in an alcove painted in Sherwin-Williams Black Fox.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A forged iron chandelier from RH soars in the two-story family room. A stone accent wall is a luxurious addition to the space. The tufted ottomans are from Wayfair.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

For its rustic glam interiors, Neelima Kanneganti combined a pair of neutral armchairs with nailhead studs with a throw pillows and a cowhide rug from RH. The stainless steel Winthrop Lantern from Z Gallerie, with...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A rustic glam vignette in a room off the kitchen vignette includes a clock and mirror art from CB2 and golden animal skulls from Houzz.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The abstract canvas print by Christie Adelle is set in a alcove with more gold accessories, showing the home's rustic glam interiors.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/Christopher Oquendo Photographer

Items from Z Gallerie outfit the living room. The wood coffee table from Z Gallerie holds a collection of coffee table books from Neiman Marcus while a golden cheetah and gold accessories are also from Z Gallerie...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The transitional gray-and-white kitchen is highlighted with a waterfall Cambria quartz island in Torquay with four upholstered bar chairs with nailhead trim from Pier1 Imports.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

On the quartz island, the homeowners accessorized with a vase from Crate and Barrel filled with faux florals from Pier1 Imports and a wood bowl from Pottery Barn. Bells and whistles in the kitchen include a pot...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The outdoor space is decorated with a bit of pattern, from the chevron rug, and a jolt of greenery, and the serenity of a Buddha statue, from Pier1 Imports.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A beaded chandelier from Progressive Lighting hangs above a dining table from Rooms To Go with upholstered chairs from Pier1 Imports. The horse statue is a Pottery Barn piece. A modern console from CB2 is nestled...Christopher Oquendo/Christopher Oquendo Photographer

The octagonal Axis floor mirror from Z Gallerie reflects the great room's rustic glam interiors.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/Christopher Oquendo Photographer

Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The 4,300-square-foot home includes a home office, where a floral yellow and gray armchair is used as a desk chair.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The Johns Creek basement has been converted into a movie and game room with pool table and recliners.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

Neelima Kanneganti repeats the modern canvas print in the living room in the master bedroom next to a high-back, tufted chair.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A wing bed with button tufting from Havertys and crisp bedding from Kassatex with an embroidered triple-line detail give a classic touch to the master bedroom.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A navy and gold canvas print, Luke II by Christie Adelle, brings modern art into the room, which also has side tables from Ashley Furniture.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A sunburst mirror from Z Gallerie adds glam above a chest of drawers.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

In the marble master bathroom, a Buddha statue from Pier1 Imports is positioned next to a freestanding tub as bamboo brings greenery into the space.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The five-bedroom, five-bath Johns Creek home was built in 2018 by Ashton Woods. Text by Marena Galluccio/Fast Copy News Service.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo

Students at Inman Middle School in Virginia-Highland display protest signs. AMANDA COYNE / AJC

In Clayton County, Mundy’s Mill Middle School seventh grader Deonte Barkley created a poster for the protest. MITCHELL NORTHAM / AJC

In Cobb County, a group of about 40 Walton High parents and community members observe a moment of silence outside the school at 10 a.m. VANESSA McCRAY / AJC

DeKalb County: Students at Decatur High show solidarity with Parkland (Fl.) students. 

In Cobb County, Sprayberry High School resource officers and teachers were posted outside to make sure students would not leave the campus. JOHN SPINK / AJC

Atlanta City Councilmembers and City of Atlanta employees participate in #nationalwalkoutday in support of the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. and the nationwide protest. ATLANTA...

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Students at Washington High planned a silent protest by taking a knee and bowing in the hallways to honor 17 victims in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting. LATISHA GRAY / TWITTER

GWINNETT COUNTY: The protest scene at Lambert High School in Suwanee. TWITTER-SUBMITTED

FULTON COUNTY: Northview High School students show protest posters. KRISTEN HAROLD / TWITTER

West Forsyth High students carry balloons as part of their protest. FROM TWITTER

COBB COUNTY: Marietta High students participate in the walkout. MARIETTA CITY SCHOOLS / TWITTER

Sylvan Hills Middle School students made signs for the protest. FROM TWITTER

More from the scene at Sylvan Hills Middle, an APS school. FROM TWITTER

The stadium at Westlake High in Fulton County was packed for the walkout. FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS / TWITTER

Atlanta City Council members and city employees participate in the walkout. ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL / TWITTER

Students at Bunche Middle School in Atlanta take part in the walkout. DR. ISIS MANBOARD / TWITTER

Katie Hemsworth wrote on Twitter: “Biked over to Grady HS to show my support on #NationalWalkoutDay. Impressed by the student-led speeches, chants, and demands for action at community and governmental levels.” KATIE...

DEKALB COUNTY: Lakeside High students take part in the protest on campus. MARLON A. WALKER / AJC

Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Meria Carstarphen (front) takes a selfie with student protesters at Inman Middle School. AMANDA COYNE / AJC

Rep. Erica Thomas, D - Austell, leads House Democrats out of the chamber to start their walkout. House and Senate Democrats staged a "walkout" this morning in support of the school walkout in protest of gun violence...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Rep. Erica Thomas, D - Austell, speaks in support of the student walkout.      BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Democratic State House and Senate members hold photos of Parkland school shooting victims during their press conference. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Rep. Bee Nguyen, D - Atlanta, holds a photo of Peter Wang, 15, one of the Parkland school shooting victims during the Democrats’ press conference. House and Senate Democrats staged a "walkout" this morning in support...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Students react as each 17 Florida high school shooting victims' name was called during a walk out protest calling for action on gun violence outside Lakeside High School on Wednesday, March 14, 2018. National School...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Hundreds of students from Lakeside High School participate in a walk out calling for action on gun violence outside Lakeside High School on Wednesday, March 14, 2018. National School Walkout was held Wednesday morning...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

At 10 a.m. students head out to participate in a walk out protest calling for action on gun violence at Lakeside High School on Wednesday, March 14, 2018. Students across the Metro Atlanta area held walkouts to...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

At 10 a.m. students head out to participate in a walk out protest calling for action on gun violence at Lakeside High School on Wednesday, March 14, 2018. Students across the Metro Atlanta area held walkouts to...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Sixth grade students from left to right; Abby Morris, Callamei Chan, and Leyla Cooke form a human chain surrounding as much of the school as they can during the National School Walkout Day at Inman Middle School...Jason Getz

Eighth grade student organizer Malori Switzer uses a bull horn to lead chants during the National School Walkout Day at Inman Middle School Wednesday, September 29, 2017, in Atlanta. The activities align with the...Jason Getz

Eighth grade student organizer Malori Switzer wears a shirt designed by a fellow student to wear during the National School Walkout Day at Inman Middle School Wednesday, September 29, 2017, in Atlanta. The activities...Jason Getz

A middle school student holds a sign reading, "Are We Next?" during the National School Walkout Day at Inman Middle School Wednesday, September 29, 2017, in Atlanta. The activities align with the national call for...Jason Getz

Cross Keys High School students hold a school walkout in Atlanta, on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.They rallied outside and some students spoke demanding to authorities a better gun control. Students across the Metro...Miguel Martinez/Miguel Martinez/MundoHispanico

Senior Tayler Batts gave a speech outside Cross Keys High School were hundreds of students participate in a walkout in Atlanta, on Wednesday, March 14, 2018. Students across the Metro Atlanta area held walkouts...Miguel Martinez/Miguel Martinez/MundoHispanico

Noel Wheatley (left) and Nick Galenkamp attend a rally with other area students at Liberty Plaza by the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Atlanta. At the conclusion of...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Area students hold letters and signs to deliver to their representatives while attending a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Atlanta. At the...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Students march to their representatives’ offices to deliver letters and discuss gun violence at the conclusion of a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol following their school walkouts on Wednesday, March...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Druid Hills High School students Virginia Hudspeth (from left), Callie Weidman, and Ellie Welsch attend a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Druid Hills High School students Callie Weidman and Ellie Welsch (left), along with other area students, attend a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March 14...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Local students look on while Druid Hills High School junior Anabette Vellines speaks out against gun violence during a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Area students and parents attend a rally in Liberty Plaza at the Georgia Capitol after their school walkouts on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Atlanta. At the conclusion of the rally many attempted to meet with...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

At 10 a.m. Marist School students were invited to leave their classrooms and congregate in alumni plaza. MARIST SCHOOL / FACEBOOK

A Westlake student holds a protest sign during the walkout. FROM TWITTER

Students and a few adults confront House Public Safety Committee Chairman Alan Powell, R-Hartwell, in a crowded Georgia State Capitol hallway to seek action on an assault weapons ban bill. MARK NIESSE / AJC

Not all student protests were held during the school day. Duluth High School students led an afterschool walk to the Town Green. ARLINDA SMITH BROADY / AJC

The living room shows off the homeowner's love for farmhouse, cottage and French design. On the walls, Benjamin Moore's Creamy White serves as blank palette for items she has thrifted and collected. She made the...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Open wood shelves displays white dishware in the kitchen. The countertop are silestone, and the original electric range was exchanged for a Kenmore gas range. The refrigerator is by GE.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Burlap and flowers in Mason jars decorate a thrifted dining table surrounded by wooden chairs and upholstered chair from eBay.

A landscape-inspired print layers a chalkboard. The art piece was purchased at Queen of Hearts Antiques and Interiors in Alpharetta. The tall birdhouses in the corner are from the previous Lakewood Antiques Market...Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

A chest of drawers from Wayfair displays heirloom decanters from Sandra Boylan's mother-in-law and candleholders that Boylan crafted out of thrifted lamps.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Aged books, a lantern and seltzer bottles found at an antique fair at Round Top, Texas, fair decorate the staircase leading to the loft.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Burlap and flowers in Mason jars decorate a thrifted dining table surrounded by wooden chairs and upholstered chair from eBay. French doors sprayed with Looking Glass paint by Krylon flank a buffet from CarlaByDesign...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

The vaulted ceiling and window was opened up and shines light into the dining room below after part of the loft was closed in for Zoe Boylan's bedroom and TV room.Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

The living room shows off the homeowner's love for farmhouse, cottage and French design. On the walls, Benjamin Moore's Creamy White serves as blank palette for items she has thrifted and collected.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

A pair of thrifted chairs cozy up to the fireplace. The upholstered wing chair was originally blue velvet but homeowner Sandra Boylan painted it dove gray and then recoated the formerly dark brown cane chair.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

A  jute rug, from Rugs.com, and a hide are layered underneath a wood cocktail table from Uttermost. A horse painting from Green Bean Exchange Antiques and Interiors Mall , a "farmhouse" sign and the coordinates...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

A textured tray filled with aged books, a pitcher, spindles, keys and a silver plated bowl with pearl buttons is a charming vignette on a round coffee table from Uttermost.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Homeowner Sandra Boylan also sewed the chenille lumbar pillow and down pillows out of a recovered French postal service bag that she found on eBay.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Wicker chairs offer extra seating in the living room, but until needed, they are situated next to a World Market table and television.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

The homeowner owns the Vintage Whisperer booth at Queen of Hearts Antiques and Interiors in Alpharetta and brings her love of those items home, displaying a collection of vintage cameras, stair spindles and items...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

A chandelier from Edgar-Reeves Lighting and Antiques hangs above the upholstered bed. She sprayed a pair of thrifted windows with Krylon Looking Glass mirror paint.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

Doilies are framed in embroidery hoops as a way to show off the homeowner's collection. A distressed chair is decorated with a pillow made from remnants of a repurposed French postal bag.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

The covered patio is like another room in the home, said homeowner Sandra Boylan. The wrought iron daybed was custom made by Ironworks International while the wicker chairs were purchased at an estate sale. The...Text by Marena Galluccio/ Photos by Christopher Oquendo/Fast Copy News Service

Sandra Boylan sits with her two dogs, Buddy and April, in her Atlanta living room. Boylan, an interior designer who has a booth at Queen of Hearts in Alpharetta, purchased the townhome in 2015 and has decorated...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo/ Christopher Oquendo www.ophoto

The three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath Craftsman-style home in Alpharetta's Palisades at Milton Park was built in 2002 by Monte Hewett Homes. The homeowners say the brick and stone exterior and archways are their...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The parlor is decorated with pieces by RH, including the double-door French conservatory cabinet, which is modeled after casement windows but has a contemporary frame made of steel and iron shelves. The arched top...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A pair of Marcel Upholstered Club Chairs from RH rest between a cocktail table in the parlor. The chairs, with brass nailhead trims, are modeled on French chairs of the 1930s and 1940s.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

Euro Design installed new granite countertops in the kitchen, which has appliances from BrandsMart. After buying the home in 2013, Jim and Kathy Callahan also refinished the cabinets and installed new hardware as...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A pair of brown leather bar stools from Arhaus pull up to the counter in the kitchen. The stools were designed by Mexican artisans and have an iron base. The hardwood floors were refinished and re-stained by The...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The outdoor spaces include a covered patio and porch off the second-story master bedroom. The brick Craftsman-style home was built by Monte Hewett Homes in 2002.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The Craftsman-style cottage, built by Monte Hewett Homes, has a brick and stone porch and arch details, which are the homeowners' favorite architectural elements.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The courtyard is spacious enough for two seating areas. The Callahans added the pergola with a high-top bar table patio set that they enjoy using as a dining space. The backyard was a part of the $41,000 renovations...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The Callahans included the courtyard in their renovations by working with landscaper Scott Tolbert, who removed overgrown bushes and trees to create more room for outdoor entertaining. The area now includes a dining...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The cluster home in the Palisades at Milton Park has a courtyard-style backyard, where the homeowners can dine al fresco.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The Travertine Drum Round Cocktail Table from Bassett has a hand-forged iron base and travertine stone top. The table's design is inspired by military drums.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The breakfast nook is filled with statement transitional pieces like the round breakfast table with a copper top from Arhaus and the reclaimed wood and stone tile accent wall behind the buffet nook. The new look...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The vertical striped accent wall uses Sherwin-Williams' Gateway Gray in two sheens, eggshell and gloss, for a decorative look above the chair rail. The dining room is outfitted with a table, chairs and hutch from...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A transitional-style mirror hangs above a console decorated with pictures and decorative urns. Nutcracker and Santa ornaments span the bottom shelf. This space leads to the master suite.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

Built-in shelving on both sides of a hallway leading to the master bedroom is filled with photos from family trips.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The master bedroom features architectural elements such as the archway with columns. The home was built in 2002 by Monte Hewett Homes and they painted the bedroom Silvermist, a Sherwin-Williams hue.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

Figurines, flowers and a mirror with a sunburst shape are paired with custom window treatments by Lori Harbrecht in the master suite. The furniture is from Bassett.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A traditional wooden four-poster bed contrasts with the white paneled grid that serves as an accent wall. The paneling, which cost about $750, is among about $41,000 in renovations. The bedroom furniture is from...Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

The front porch gets of dose of holiday cheer with Christmas pillows on the iron bench and a festive bowed wreath.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo

A trio of mirrors shine above the wood bed in the pink-and-green guest bedroom. Callahan likes using different materials, like the iron and mirrored wall art, in her transitional home decor.Text by Marena Galluccio/Photos by Christopher Oquendo