This year’s nominating committee has completed its work. Our nominations are listed here and will also be announced at the October monthly meeting, as our bylaws require. Our bylaws state no “individual may serve more than three consecutive years in the same position, or five consecutive years on the Board.” This year, all eight members eligible to serve another year in the same position have agreed to be nominated for next year, with a new member nominated for the remaining position. Their names and positions, along with a brief biographical statement that the candidates provided, are listed below. Officers are elected at the Annual Meeting (November 27, 2025) and, as our bylaws state, “Members may nominate other candidates from the floor at the Annual Meeting.”
CPNO Board Nominations 2026
President, Chris Spruell (served 2025)
I’m honored to be nominated again and am excited to continue volunteering in this role if you’ll have me. A bit more about me: I’m a Georgia native who’s lived in Atlanta since 1990 (with a 2-yr blip after graduating from GT for a job in Ohio). I’ve lived in Candler Park since 2000, first at the Laurea condos behind what is now Pizza Verdura Sincera (née Zesto’s), then in 2003 moving to my home on Josephine St. where I now reside with my partner, Michelle. I’ve been a computer guy in the corporate world for almost 30 years. For fun, I enjoy running (mostly through Candler Park and nearby neighborhoods!), biking, hiking, cooking, writing, reading, socializing with friends, and well-prepared cocktails—not necessarily in that order.
Treasurer, Alyssa Ozer (served 2025)
Pending.
Secretary, Allen Broyles (served 2025)
I’m honored to be nominated for Secretary for a second year and delighted to continue to support Candler Park, a place I’ve called home since 1999—26 years and counting.I’m an active gardeners at Mulberry Fields Garden and serve on the Friends of Mulberry Field board, helping steward the space for the neighborhood. We’ve raised two kids here—one a junior in high school and one a junior in college—which keeps me tuned to issues that matter to families. I’m a regular on our paths and streets by bike and skates, my wife is often out walking our two dogs, and try to get out kayaking whenever I can. I would welcome a chance to serve the neighborhood for an additional year.
Membership, Sarah Cusick (served 2025)
I served as Membership Chair in 2025 and would love to continue in 2026. Last year I learned the ropes from my one-man committee, Roger Bakeman, and this year I hope to enlist more local businesses to join our organization and to boost in-person meeting attendance—preferably with the promise of snacks and beverages.
I’m an Atlanta native who grew up in Midtown and moved to Candler Park with my husband and two daughters in 2023. Community organizing runs in my family, and I’m proud to carry on that tradition with CPNO. When I’m not working my day job in Healthcare Tech from home, I’m usually in my home jewelry studio or crafting with my kids. If you don’t recognize me, you might recognize my oversized, goofy golden retriever, Roxy.
Fundraising, Stacee Burton White (served 2024–2025)
I have served as Fundraising Chair for the past two years and would be honored to continue serving for another year. As Fundraising Chair, I maintain strong relationships with our Fall Fest committee chair and our Social committee chair, who manage our two most significant fundraising projects. I have also served on the Bylaws Committee and been part of the Education Committee for the last 4 years. I am originally from the Atlanta area, having moved to Candler Park in 2018. I am the proud mother of three children, one at Mary Lin Elementary, one DT Howard, and one at Midtown High.
Alexis von Dickmann, Zoning (served 2025)
Thank you for the nomination to continue in service as CPNO Zoning Committee Chair. Prior to 2025, I was a member of the Zoning Committee under Jason Key. I grew up just outside of Decatur (a rare 3rd-generation Atlantan!) and have lived in Candler Park since 2012. My daytime jobs keep me busy – surgery nurse, mom to a 3rd grader, partner to a small business owner, and herder of two cats. I enjoy most physical activities (running, biking, swimming, even roller skating lately) and tending to indoor & outdoor plants. I also enjoy building community and maintaining social connections – I am particularly appreciative of the dedicated CPNO Zoning Committee members, whose volunteerism helps us maintain a strong community.
Matt Johnson, Safety (new)
I have lived in Candler Park for 20+ years with my wife Paige and 3-year-old golden retriever, Forester. You can probably find me on the Freedom Park path or Beltline walking him almost daily. I currently serve on the board for the Candler Park Lake Claire Patrol wearing multiple hats while keeping the day-to-day operations of the patrol going, fixing the patrol car, and working with the APD officers that patrol our neighborhood. I had a career in IT and Telcom focused on solution delivery and security. Lately, I spend my time part time consulting, helping neighbors, and cooking for friends.
Meshall Shumate, Communications (served 2025)
Hello neighbors my name is Meshall Shumate. I have been living in Candler Park for eight years and currently serve as the Communications Officer on the CPNO board. I am looking forward to returning for my second year.
I’m a Special Education Teacher’s Assistant at Midtown High school. I am also an award-winning filmmaker and photographer.
I was born and raised in Kansas City Kansas (land of the Jayhawks). I am the daughter of Dr. Hargest and Dr. Elaine Shumate, I have one brother, and I am the proud owner of a sweet Maltese dog named “Baby Summer” who keeps me physically fit walking through the neighborhood every day…sometimes twice a day rain or shine. My interests include reading, writing, watching comedies, historical films, playing guitar, and golf. I attended college in Los Angles California, and after graduation I moved to Hot Atlanta. I have enjoyed living in Atlanta especially Candler Park; it is my home away from home.
Teo Belli, External Affairs (served 2025)
I’m the new board member in 2025 (serving since August/September) and quickly doing what I can to get up to speed. I’ve only been in Atlanta for a few years having relocated from the Midwest – and Candler Park for only one year, but I love the neighborhood and I’m interested in learning about its past to help shape its future. I’m happy to serve the neighborhood and do what I can to support our neighbors. You might see me out and about walking my dog most days!
Many thanks to the members of this year’s nominating committee: Lauren Welsh, Barb Marston, Edith Kelman, and Susan Genco. —Roger Bakeman, Chair