Best Self Atlanta 0617-0717

Atlanta’s “go-to” guide for health, beauty and happy living!

June / July 2017

atlanta bestselfatlanta.com

In My Father’s Footsteps Dads and Sons Treasure Their Traditions p. 29

Back Pain Today’s Treatment Options p. 21

Fun Calendar Concerts, Festivals and Restaurant Week p. 18

Best Fun

The Sounds of Summer Music Festivals p. 16

Best Fitness

Cool Off With 5 Fun Water Sports p. 14

Best Cause

Meet Jeff Domke: Camp Kudzu’s Puppet Dude p. 74

Give-Back Guide

YOUR

G

LUNT EE

G

O

R•

UIDE • V

The AJC Peachtree Road Race and More Community Volunteer Opportunities p. 77

And the Winners Are...

Over 40&

-BACK IVE

Fabulous!

Meet 2017 Contest Winner Lisa M. Washington and All the Finalists p. 46 0617_000-001_COVER.indd 1

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bestself

atlanta

PUBLISHER

Sherri Adair

Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Patti Stephens

MANAGING EDITOR

Laura Janelle Downey ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Alex McCray

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS/ SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS

Wyndi Kappes Annie Paschal

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Candace Bivins

cbivins@atlantabestmedia.com

Kim Cooper

kcooper@atlantabestmedia.com

$

99

CHEMICAL

PEELS

Amy Smith

asmith@atlantabestmedia.com ART DIRECTOR

Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Miguel Velázquez OFFICE MANAGER

Gail Sawyer

CONTRIBUTORS

Amy Meadows Katherine Michalak Carolyn O’Neil PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Reeves Dan Sawyer

For print, web, email and digital advertising information, contact us at: 80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x27 FAX (404) 303-0030 info@bestselfatlanta.com

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Best Self Atlanta magazine uses soy-based ink and is printed on 100 percent recyclable paper.

Our print partner, Panaprint, Inc., is a certified Green Printer. All excess ink, paper and printing plates are recycled.

Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Best Self Atlanta does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Best Self Atlanta reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability.

No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.

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BEST SELF ATLANTA

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contents

Meet the Experts Who Keep Atlanta Young

June / July 2017

The 2017 Over 40 & Fabulous!

Advisory Board p. 58

Back Pain

Today’s Treatment Options p. 21

Pictured L-R (back row): Steve Hightower, Kim Steen Langan, Lisa M. Washington, Jennifer Curtin, Brandie Park, Randall K. Smith. (front row): Tran Bui Smith, Michele Thomas, Christine Pullara, Jennifer Hankey, Robin Fink.

Over 40 & Fabulous!

The reveal you’ve been waiting for. Meet 2017 46

In My Father’s Footsteps Dads and Sons Treasure Their Traditions p. 29

Over 40 & Fabulous! Winner Lisa M. Washington and the other outstanding finalists.

In every issue From the Publisher Be Brave

10

Editor’s Letter

13

Best Bulletin

14

16

6

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Better After 40

Cocktails in the Garden, National Men’s Health Week and More

18

Fun Calendar

38

Best Bites

74

Best Cause

Best Fitness

Get Outdoors with Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Fly Fishing and More

Best Fun

The Sounds of Summer Music Festivals

JUNE / JULY 2017

BEST SELF ATLANTA

77

Atlanta Cycling Festival, Gwinnett Restaurant Week, and a Free Movie Series A Taste of Bermuda Puppeteer Jeff Domke Brings a Unique Experience to Camp Kudzu

Give-Back Guide Community Volunteer Opportunities

On the cover Lisa M. Washington

Photography: Sawyer Photography Hair & Makeup: The Green Room Agency A special thank you to Novare Events and The Biltmore Ballrooms for hosting our winner photo shoot and to Under the Cork Tree for providing the delicious food.

Photo courtesy of Sawyer Photography (top left).

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from the publisher

MEET OUR TEAM OF AESTHETIC DENTISTS

Be Brave—Embrace Change for Life Improvement!

Change is good. And in the past year, we’ve undergone several.

In an effort to take our organization to a new level, I had to make some important decisions. One was to redesign and rebrand our sister flagship publication, Atlanta Home Improvement.

With a modified name, refreshed look and new editorial purpose, we now produce bi-monthly issues with monthly distribution.

Dr. Debra Gray King is the founder of the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry (ACCD) and a pioneer in cosmetic dentistry. She is one of less than 70 dentists worldwide to be an Accredited Fellow, which is the highest level of competence recognized by the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). She has been featured on The Doctors, Extreme Makeover, the Wall Street Journal, and various news media outlets.

(Left to Right) Sherri Adair, president/founder and Laura J. Downey, managing editor.

The other was to welcome Laura J. Downey who serves as our company’s managing editor.

She brings with her more than 15 years of editorial experience (including PEOPLE magazine and Forbes Travel Guide) to Best Self Atlanta, My Home Improvement (formerly Atlanta Home Improvement), and our six hyperlocal magazines—My Alpharetta, My Buckhead, My East Cobb, My Intown, My Sandy Springs, and My Vinings/Smyrna.

Dr. Charlie Cooper is an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). He has transformed thousands of smiles and his cosmetic cases are used in lectures nationwide. Dr. Cooper studied at the world famous Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He is a regular participant in the “Give Back A Smile” Program in which he and the ACCD donate their time and skills to help battered women achieve a new smile.

We’re excited about these hyperlocal magazines because each one is 100 percent dedicated to neighborhood-specific content to help its residents live their best lives. As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of these quarterly magazines, toast with us as we commemorate the one-year anniversary of Atlanta Best Media. As the company continues to grow, we are optimistic about its future.

One decision can impact your entire life. Each decision I’ve made for the company is a testament to embracing change and growth. The road hasn’t always been smooth but it’s been worth it. If you’re contemplating making a change, be brave! Don’t let the fear of change alone stop you. Get after it. Life is too short not to.

All the best,

Sherri Adair, Publisher

Follow us on Facebook to learn more about our Dating Over 40 in Atlanta and Meet the Masters of Makeover events.

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Photography by (From left) Sawyer Photography; Artemus Jenkins.

We just wrapped a successful 30 Days of Healthy, Beautiful Skin Blog and Facebook Live Series for Best Self, which engaged more than 14,000 unique views and countless shares and likes. And we now invite you to join us in June as we embark on another Facebook Live and Blog Series but this time, it’s 30 Days of Home Remodeling.

Dr. Brett Reeve studied Dentistry at the University of Southern California where he earned a membership to the Honor Dental Society “Omicron Kappa Upsilon.” He is a Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. In 2015, Dr. Reeve earned the Hero in Healthcare award for his constant service in the community and outstanding dental work.

bestselfatlanta.com

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GeorgiaSmiles.com | 404.994.2562

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ANTI-AGING DENTISTRY

PORCELAIN VENEERS

FULL-MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION

TEETH WHITENING

COSMETIC BONDING

GUM CONTOURING

Best Cosmetic Dentistry

Consecutive Winner 2013 - 2014 - 2015 - 2016 Caroline Medley Jeffords, Miss Georgia 2004, is an ACCD patient. Dentistry done by Dr. Debra Gray King & Dr. Charlie Cooper

Our Cosmetic Dentists Dr. Brett Reeve

Sustaining Member American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

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Dr. Debra Gray King Dr. Charlie Cooper Accredited Fellow American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Accredited Member American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

GeorgiaSmiles.com | 404.994.2562

5/12/17 5/22/17 12:47 5:39 PM PM

from the editor Better After 40

North Atlanta

As a millennial myself, I must say my generation gets more than its fair share of notoriety. While, I’m still deciding whether this buzz is good or bad, I am proud that publications such as Best Self Atlanta are shining a light on those whose 20s and 30s are behind them. Sometimes what lies ahead can be just as, if not more, exciting than what is left behind. When our 2017 Over 40 & Fabulous! contest winner, Lisa M. Washington, was in her 20s, she would tell her friends that she couldn’t wait to be in her 40s: “When I was younger, I looked at the women in my life in their 40s and I saw this great freedom of expression and confidence.” As I’m sure many of you can attest, life after 40 is as dynamic as you make it. Our contest finalists are proof—from Tran Bui Smith’s journey to self acceptance to Kim Steen Langan experiencing the joy of becoming a new mother right before her 41st birthday, these 16 standouts (on p. 46) are simply amazing!

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In celebration of one generation to the next, our article, In My Father’s Footsteps, on p. 29 takes a look at another group that some might say doesn’t always receive the recognition they deserve—dads. From running the AJC Peachtree Road Race together for decades to simply catching up over milkshakes every Friday, five groups of Atlanta fathers and sons share the traditions that bond them. On Father’s Day and beyond, it’s always important to take the time to thank and acknowledge the role models that helped shape and inspire who we are today.

And don’t forget to find ways to give back to your community like puppeteer Jeff Domke does every summer when he brings his talents to kids at Camp Kudzu.

Happy reading,

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Alex McCray Associate Editor

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Coming in August/September

Gabrielle M. Sabini, MD • Charles J. Douchy, MD Matthew J. Reschly, MD • A. Damian Dhar, MD Stephanie S. Gardner, MD • Weston T. Waxweiler, MD • Anjana M. Patel, PA-C • Sara A. Barr, PA-C Karly Kincaid, PA-C • Nikki Orciuch-PA-C • Julia Ro, PA-C All Board Certified

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5 Women Share Their Age-Defying Secrets Men’s Health: 10 Symptoms you should never ignore Brain Health: How to stay sharp Profile: Interior designer Kerry Howard’s stunning weight loss transformation My Best Self: The etiquette queen, Erika Preval Masters of Makeover: Meet Atlanta’s experts who bring their clients the very best in care—from mommy makeovers to amazing fitness transformations.

Photography by Sarah Diller’s Photographs.

To get on our mailing list for upcoming specials go to www.naderm.com

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bestbulletin National Men’s Health Week is June 12-18

Father’s Day at the Field Explore SunTrust Park, the new home of the Atlanta Braves, and make dad’s dreams come true. On June 18, Celebrate Father’s Day with your dad at the Braves versus Marlins game. Bonding with your parental over baseball has never been so cool.

Tickets start at $8.

The week leading up to Father’s Day is National Men’s Health Week. Try these three ways to live longer from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and keep up with the lucky ladies in your life.

Photos courtesy of Atlanta Botanical Garden (middle left); Atlanta Braves, photography by Logan Rieley (top right); Reedy Press (bottom right).

Details: 755 Battery Ave., Atlanta; mlb.com/braves

Eat Healthy Take small steps to improve your diet. Focus on adding at least one fruit and vegetable to every meal.

Stay Active Find a way to move that you enjoy. Join a recreation team or play active games with your kids or grandkids.

Cheers for Cocktails in the Garden Raise a glass for the return of the Thursday evening Cocktails in the Garden series at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. After a two-year hiatus, date night lovers, happy hour professionals and everyone in between can experience the enchantment of the garden at night. Each month will feature a special theme to highlight a certain part of the garden. For June, come join the White Party at the Levy Parterre and in July, the garden invites you to Come Play in the Children’s Garden.

Details: 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE., Atlanta; atlantabg.org

Take a Tour Jump-start summer fun with “100 Things to Do in Atlanta Before You Die, 2nd Edition.”

Local award-winning writer Sarah Gleim delights residents and tourists alike with her lighthearted and amusing guide to “the big peach.” Hidden gems and favorites collide as Gleim highlights funky festivals, moonlit bicycle rides, garden tours and more.

Track Your Stats Be a hero for your loved ones by keeping tabs on your health.

Schedule routine checkups and have your blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and prostate health screened.

Details: cdc.gov/men/nmhworg

Run West Run through history on July 15 as a part of the 2017 Atlanta BeltLine Run. Walk.Go! Race Series.

The Atlanta BeltLine Westside 5K takes runners on the original BeltLine path through one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods, West End. This familyand pet-friendly race combines nature and city scenery.

Details: beltline.org/events

Details: reedypress.com bestselfatlanta.com

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bestfitness

Not all water activities have to be strenuous. Take a relaxing one-and-ahalf mile float down the Chattahoochee River on a raft or tube. Grab friends and family, pack a cooler and let Shoot the Hooch take care of the rest. A shuttle will take you to and from launch spots. Didn’t pack a bite to eat? Don’t worry. Hot dogs, ice cream, and drinks are on hand for purchase at a stand near the launch spot.

Paddle Om

(L-R) Bubba Sloan, Caroline Sloan, and John Sloan of High Country Outfitters.

Take your paddleboard skills up a notch with one of High Country Outfitters SUP Yoga classes now through August. Each 90-minute class is led by Caroline Sloan, an ACE PaddleYoga, World Paddle Association instructor certified by Key West Paddleboard Yoga. The goal of the class is to get reconnected with nature and the water with a flow that works your core.

Details: 200 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs, Morgan Falls Overlook Park; highcountryoutfitters.com

Details: Don White Memorial Park, Roswell; shootthehooch.com

Kick-Start Kayaking Take the Plunge

Get ready to hit the water with REI’s Learn to Kayak class. For those looking to take up the sport, this class will help them get comfortable with kayaks, paddles, gear and proper clothing. After covering the basics, students will learn how to launch and receive an introduction to paddle stroke techniques such as forward, sweep, reverse and draw.

Details: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain; rei.com/learn

Reel in Fun Get the feel of an authentic scuba adventure in a shallow water environment with Atlanta Scuba and Swim Centers’ Discover Scuba Experience. Learn how to get comfortable maneuvering equipment while experienced divers share step-by-step skills and safety rules. After instruction, move on to their Open Water Certification Course and start diving with the best of them.

Details: atlantascuba.com

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BEST SELF ATLANTA

River Through Atlanta’s Fly Fishing A-Z class is ideal for fishing newbies. The full day guided trip covers the fundamentals of casting, knot tying, surveying the water and more. After a few hours, put what you’ve learned to the test and fish for rainbow and brown trout. More advanced fishers can go on additional outings to pursue largemouth and striped bass, carp and trophy trout. A Georgia trout fishing license is required before attending either class.

Details: 710 Riverside Rd., Roswell; riverthroughatlanta.com

River Through Atlanta student Lee Morgan.

Photos courtesy of Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism, photography by Kevin Garrett (top right); Atlanta Scuba, photography by Stacey Nortonn (bottom left); Chris Scalley (bottom right).

Float the Mainstream

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Photos courtesy of Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism, photography by Kevin Garrett (top right); Atlanta Scuba, photography by Stacey Nortonn (bottom left); Chris Scalley (bottom right).

We Can Make Your Smile Great Again!

BEFORE

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Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Serving Georgia for 18 Years.

Dr. Dina Giesler

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bestfun

Music festival season is upon us

Whether you enjoy taking in tunes laid back in a lawn chair or rocking out in a crowd, there is something in Atlanta for nearly every type of festivalgoer.

Jazz on the Lawn

Sunset Sessions

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center presents its Jazz on the Lawn series.

Talents new and old will unite from the Atlanta jazz and R&B community.

Park Tavern is excited for the return of its free Sunset Sessions concert series. These burgeoning artists are sure to get you out of your music comfort zone.

Rhonda Thomas

JUNE 30: Joe Gransden At only 42 years old, Gransden has toured the world, released 14 albums, and been compared to Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra.

He dazzles audiences with his raw vocal talent and hard bop trumpet style.

JULY 14: Joey “Papa J” Sommerville Influenced by years spent with B.B. King protégé Big Joe Burrell, and Phish, Sommerville brings his own new mix of contemporary jazz, rock, R&B, and classic blues.

JULY 28: Virginia Schenck and The World Jazz Trio Known onstage as “VA,” Schenck has studied piano, voice, and dance.

She fell in love with jazz after becoming friends with former Allman Brothers Band member, Jaimoe.

JUNE 4: Jamestown Revival and Colter Wall Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance are the rock duo that form Jamestown Revival. Their Americana sound is inspired by Willie Nelson, Guy Clark, and The Rolling Stones. Colter Wall will also bring down-home country melodies to the stage.

JUNE 11: John Paul White and Lera Lynn Originally a member of the Grammy Award-winning group The Civil Wars, White has now branched out on his own as a folk singer-songwriter. Lynn joins the ticket to share her experimental rock and pop noire.

JUNE 18: Meg Mac This Australian local is known for her groovy, alternative R&B, and blues-rock featuring vocals and a keyboard.

JUNE 25: Surfer Blood After the loss of Surfer Blood’s guitarist, Thomas Fekete, to stomach cancer, this band has rebounded with a new album that stays true to their beachy indie-rock feel.

AUGUST 20: Girls Guns & Glory and Cold Heart Canyon Rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and classic country all find a home in the sound of Girls Guns & Glory, which pairs nicely with Cold Heart Canyon’s bluegrass sound.

Details: 500 10th St. NE., Atlanta; parktavern.com

AUGUST 11: Bob Baldwin Baldwin developed his affection for jazz from his father at a young age.

He has since taken his skill set to the next level by composing and producing his own music. Most recently, he released “The BrazilianAmerican Soundtrack.”

Details: Tickets $20 online, $25 at the door. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE., Atlanta; callanwolde.org

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BEST SELF ATLANTA

Cold Heart Canyon

Photo courtesy of Park Tavern (bottom right).

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Relief is in reach.

Back pain can keep you from living your life to its fullest potential. But with a wide range of non-surgical treatment options as well as direct access to the neurosurgical experts at Gwinnett Medical Center, the team at the Back Pain Center will work to quickly diagnose your condition and determine the best course of treatment for you. We have everything you need to start feeling better, right here in one location.

Get back to the things that matter most. To schedule an appointment or to request your free copy of Understanding Back Pain, visit us online at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ backpain.

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Back in the Saddle Understanding Back Pain and Today’s Treatment Options

By Amy Meadows

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he commercials make it look so easy. Just take two pills, and back pain will dissipate like magic so you can return to living a carefree life. Of course, if you’re like one of the 31 million people who, according to the American Chiropractic Association, experience low back pain, you know that there’s much more to dealing with the nagging discomfort associated with back issues. While oral anti-inflammatories (and even external pain relief patches) certainly can help, it’s crucial to understand the cause of your back pain so you can weigh the pros and cons of today’s available treatment options.

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The Root of the Problem “Eighty percent of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives,” says Paul R. Jeffords, M.D., a minimally invasive spine surgeon with Resurgens Orthopaedics PC. “It’s the price we pay for walking upright on two feet. It’s part of being human.”

Of course, not all back pain is created equal. In fact, Jeffords notes that there is a range, from a simple pulled or strained muscle to more complicated degenerative conditions that can cause severe or even debilitating pain. Less serious back pain can be the result of overdoing it at the gym, lifting a heavy object incorrectly, sitting for too long at work or leading an overall sedentary lifestyle.

More serious issues can affect either the discs in the back (the cushions or “shock absorbers” along the spine) or the facet joints (where the bones connect to each other). In addition to basic disc degeneration, which derives from general wear and tear as you age, you may also encounter conditions like herniated (bulging) or ruptured discs, pinched nerves, sciatica (compression of the sciatic nerve) or arthritis. A traumatic injury also can wreak havoc on your back, affecting tendons, ligaments and muscles.

Photos courtesy of Wellbiz Brands (middle right); Perimeter Orthopaedics (bottom right).

Fortunately, according to Shahram Rezaiamiri, M.D., F.A.C.S., a neurosurgeon with AllSpine Laser and Surgery Center, a majority of acute—or short term—back pain cases will resolve spontaneously with time and without the need for major treatment. However, a percentage of those cases will become chronic, lasting 12 weeks or longer and requiring evaluation and possibly medical intervention.

“You don’t have to rush to see a doctor every time you have back pain,” Jeffords says. “But if you have back pain that fails to improve with rest, or if it’s waking you up at night and you can’t find relief with any position, there might be something more serious going on that calls for further investigation.”

A Team Approach

Back Pain Q&A From Atlanta’s Spine Care Experts

Q

How does someone know when it’s time to seek treatment for back pain?

A

Due to its complex nature, people who have experienced back pain for more than a week should seek the help of a specialist with a variety of care options. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the experts at Gwinnett Medical Center’s Back Pain Center offer several effective treatment methods, including injections, physical therapy, medication, and surgical procedures. Learn more at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/backpain.

Q

What are some common treatments for back pain?

A

In some cases, the root cause of lower back pain can actually be tight leg muscles that are pulling on the hips and triggering the pain felt in the back.

To treat this pain, massage therapists may utilize many different modalities such as Swedish, deep tissue and trigger point to help relieve pain. Learn more at elementsmassage.com/blog.

Q

What questions should a person consider before getting treatment for back pain?

1. Am I not able to function and perform my day-to-day activities because of my back pain?

While back pain may be a prevalent problem, it has many possible causes. And that means there are a variety of professionals available to help you navigate the treatment process. But where do you start? Should you see a chiropractor or a physical therapist? If you have severe pain, should you go straight to a spine surgeon?

Chiropractors, physical therapists and surgeons will each bring their own expertise to your case. Jeffords recommends starting with a medical doctor who can look at your medical history, current medications and any other symptoms you may have—such as red flags like a persistent fever, numbness, tingling or weakness—to rule out an emergency situation.

Once you have the all clear, you can consider the other professionals in your arsenal and get recommendations for who might be able to help you tackle your specific issue.

According to Zachary Walston, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, clinical director of PT Solutions, physical therapy can be very effective for back pain. “Physical therapy involves rehabbing bestselfatlanta.com

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2. Is my back pain associated with any particular activity?

Yolanda Scott, M.D. of Perimeter Orthopaedics

3. Are my symptoms

getting worse and affecting how I treat others around me?

If you’ve answered yes to any of the questions above, it would be best to make an appointment with a back specialist so that you can address your concerns and establish a comprehensive plan to work toward eliminating your discomfort. Learn more at perimeterorthopaedic.com.

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someone through education, exercise and manual therapy when appropriate,” he says.

“When back pain is chronic, there may be several issues going on. The body has to be retrained to move pain free and establish proper motor patterns to fully address the issues resulting from chronic pain.” A physical therapist will show you the right exercises and how to do them properly to facilitate the healing process.

A chiropractor is another valuable professional to have on hand. With a focus on the spine and how its alignment and health affects the nervous system, chiropractic care can be extremely valuable not only to your back, but also to your overall health. “We address the subluxations, which can affect the nerves and the nervous system,” explains Samantha March-Howard, D.C., of 100% Chiropractic.

“When we start to address the body from that perspective, it can heal properly and achieve the health you’re looking for, whether you have back pain, neck pain or any kind of ailment.”

And while the thought of going to a spine surgeon may sound scary, it doesn’t have to be, as Jeffords notes that surgery is actually a last resort for most back pain cases. However, it doesn’t hurt to be evaluated by someone who specializes in orthopedic care or neurological issues and can identify problems that may not be fixable through noninvasive techniques like physical therapy and chiropractic care alone. When additional treatment is needed, an orthopedic spine surgeon or a neurosurgeon are your next options in your team approach.

take antibiotics in order to cure the infection. But in cases of spinal arthritis or disc degeneration, the underlying condition causing back pain can’t be cured,” Jeffords explains. “If the back pain is due to degenerative conditions, the goal of treatment is not to cure. We actually have two goals—to relieve the pain and to improve the patient’s function so they can return to an active lifestyle. And we do that by breaking it down into phases of treatment.”

The first phase of back pain treatment involves noninvasive options like medications, ice and heat, physical therapy and home exercises.

Chiropractic care may be an appropriate adjunct to treatment in certain conditions. “Ninety percent of patients experience improvement with time and the treatments in phase one,” Jeffords says.

“Anti-inflammatory bio-injections decrease pain and help retrain the soft tissues of the body to do what they are supposed to be doing instead of being held in a state of spasm causing joint and muscular pain,” — Dr. Tara Frix

With all of these professionals, it is crucial to find someone who is educated and trained in their field. And when it comes to finding a back specialist (particularly a surgeon), Rezaiamiri recommends looking for a professional who has completed a fellowship in spine surgery.

The Phases of Treatment “It’s frustrating when you’re looking for a cure. If you have an infection, you can bestselfatlanta.com

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The next category or phase, Rezaiamiri reveals, includes the use of either steroid or nonsteroid injections. Dr. Tara Frix, case manager of Total HealthCare Medical Centers has seen great success with the use of the nonsteroid Ortho-Biological Injection treatment. “Anti-inflammatory bioinjections decrease pain and help retrain the soft tissues of the body to do what they are supposed to be doing instead of being held in a state of spasm causing joint and muscular pain,” says Frix. Epidural steroid injections, facet joint blocks, selective nerve root blocks and other injections can be used sparingly to try and alleviate the pain associated with disc or BEST SELF ATLANTA

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Surgery comprises the final phase. While most patients do not require surgical options, there are several, from a lumbar microdiscectomy to remove the herniated part of a disc to a laminectomy to relieve symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal).

An initial comprehensive evaluation,

including an MRI, allows a spine surgeon to identify the area of concern and plan the best surgical strategy.

Fortunately, technological and medical advancements have created minimally invasive alternatives to major back

surgery. “We use smaller incisions and try to limit the amount of trauma to the body while doing surgery,” Jeffords notes. “It allows for less blood loss and faster recovery.”

Photo courtesy of PT Solutions, photography by Megan Golden.

facet joint issues. “There is a 30 to 70 percent success rate with these injections,” Rezaiamiri continues.

Jeffords adds, “The goal is not to cure the underlying condition. It’s not to shrink the disc. It’s to reduce the pain and inflammation to a manageable level. But there is a limit to what it can do.” In fact, patients should receive no more than three to four injections over a 12-month period.

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Photo courtesy of PT Solutions, photography by Megan Golden.

In recent years, some patients have turned to percutaneous laser disc compression (PLDD), a noninvasive procedure in which a laser probe is used to vaporize the center of a disc, thereby shrinking its size, reducing the pressure and relieving pain. Rezaiamiri, who was trained by Daniel Choy, the founder of the Laser Spine Center, reveals that between 50 and 60 percent of patients find the procedure effective. “It’s not a large operation. There is no incision,” he says, adding that some people find relief immediately while others may experience relief slowly as the disc shrinks over the course of a month.

However, while he specializes in PLDD, Rezaiamiri warns that some practices throughout the country purport to offer this specialized laser procedure but actually do not. Therefore, it’s important to research any facility thoroughly before agreeing to a procedure.

The Lowdown on Low Back Pain Treatment As with any kind of medical care or therapy, there are positives and negatives to each phase of back pain treatment. In the earliest phases, physical therapy and chiropractic care can take time. Injections may not last or work at all, depending on the severity of your issue. And surgery always has its drawbacks, from the development of scar tissue and muscle atrophy to the acceleration of degeneration in some instances. Yet, treatment can be very effective when the right plan is implemented. And March-Howard suggests dealing with the issues as soon as possible. “If you feel pain, or if you feel your posture shifting, get corrective work and start to address that,” she advises.

And as your team helps you work through the issues you are experiencing, you can rest easy knowing that research is being done to try and find even better

ways to treat back pain. “For the future, the focus is on regenerative treatments, such as gene therapy and stem cell therapy,” Jeffords says.

In the meantime, there are many options available to you if you are one of the millions of back pain sufferers. It’s just important to keep one thing in mind as you set out on your journey. “Don’t give up. Don’t lose hope. It takes time and effort,” Walston concludes. “But it will make you so much healthier in the long run.” Remember to thoroughly research your treatment options and do not do anything you are not comfortable with.

Sources 100% Chiropractic, 100percentchiropractic.com AllSpine Laser and Surgery Center allspinesurgerycenter.com American Chiropractic Association, acatoday.org PT Solutions, ptsolutions.com Resurgens Orthopaedics PC, resurgens.com Total HealthCare Medical Centers, totalhealthmed.com

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In My Father’s Footsteps Annual family traditions allow local men to share a special parent-son bond

By Katherine Michalak

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hen that 1974 folk song, “Cat’s in the Cradle,” by Harry Chapin starts playing on the radio, it triggers a lump in the throat or misty eyes. Those precious childhood years are fleeting, and all too often, even the most well-intentioned fathers may struggle as life’s busyness (think work, school, errands, activities) derails efforts to spend quality time with the kids.

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Having a dad who shines as a positive example can give boys a solid foundation and reinforce the values that form their core identity. Establishing special father-son traditions provides a consistent outlet for nurturing those values and building confidence in that identity. These little habits and rituals clear some common ground for generations to cultivate camaraderie and connection. And, these local men can attest to the incredible impact their father-son traditions have had on their families.

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Photos courtesy of Patrick Flynn (top left); Cool Dads Rock (bottom right).

The elder Flynn runs, jogs or bikes every day, often riding with a high-mileage group.

But, it’s the running that bonds father and son. “When I was younger, we trained together. As I grew up [and left home] it became about meeting up for the race,” Flynn notes. The two follow each other on the MapMyRun app and often discuss their times, techniques, training or diets. “It’s reinforcing positive peer pressure. And, it’s my quality time with my dad,” he confirms. “No matter what is going on in (L-R) Frank and Patrick Flynn have run more than 30 AJC Peachtree Road Races together. our lives, we know we are going to meet up FOLLOW THE LEADER at Peachtree and Lenox on the Fourth Patrick Flynn says his father, Frank, of July. It’s the ‘due north’ of our started running for exercise long relationship.” before it was a trend. He remembers his father’s runs around their Roswell PLAYING IT COOL neighborhood vividly. “Neighbors used For professional DJ La Verio (LV) to call my mom and ask what Frank Barnes, learning the definition of was doing or where he was going,” a “good dad” has become a part Flynn chuckles. “One day I just started of a larger goal. As founder of the running after him, chasing him,” Flynn nonprofit Cool Dads Rock (CDR), LV continues, recalling how his own love seeks to both motivate and support of running took hold. “It’s my favorite men in Atlanta as they build a strong form of exercise. I’d rather be outside foundation with their families and their running, and I think Dad feels the same way. I don’t even think about the physical fitness benefits, it’s more of a mental boost.”

In 1980, the two ran their first AJC Peachtree Road Race together and have continued to do so ever since.

“Dad is 81 now and hasn’t missed one; I’ve only missed three. Over the years, other family members and friends have occasionally joined us, but he and I are the ones that established this as our tradition,” says Flynn. “He’s always trying to beat his age for his time, so this year he’ll try to run it in under 81 minutes. He’s an inspiration.” bestselfatlanta.com

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communities. “I didn’t have a father present [in childhood]. I never wanted my child to feel how I felt. Although I had good role models to look up to [uncles, cousins], I wanted my child to have a consistent influence,” says Barnes. “I had a friend going through a difficult custody battle some years ago and I posted something on social media with the hashtag #cooldadsrock. Then I realized that I know so many great dads doing stuff with their kids and not always showing it.”

Others picked up on that hashtag and soon the group had a dedicated Facebook page celebrating fatherhood, which gave a forum for support and empowering fathers. By 2013, that grew into the Cool Dads Rock organization, which encourages fathers to build lasting relationships with their children by facilitating projects and events as well as offering resources for support. “Men tend to sit on stuff for a long time and it takes a certain comfort level to roll out conversations,” Barnes concedes.

For Barnes and his son, Anderson, the annual CDR Soapbox Derby gives them a mutual creative endeavor.

“We have ownership of the whole project—planning, building, figuring it all out, learning together. The derby is the platform, but it’s the whole process leading up to the derby that is what’s remembered and a shared experience,” Barnes says. The organization’s fifth annual Derby

The fifth annual CDR Soapbox Derby will take place on August 5 at Historic Fourth Ward Park.

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will take place on August 5 at Historic Fourth Ward Park. “That’s probably our favorite event with the group. But we do other things too, like ‘Milkshake Fridays’—every Friday, I pick him up from school, we go get milkshakes and sit down to rehash the week. He knows he has that time with me and he looks forward to it every week. I never had that,” Barnes remarks. “It’s special for both of us.”

Photos courtesy of David Abes (top right); Bert’s Big Adventure, photography by Sarah Esther Photography (bottom left).

WALK THE WALK David Abes, chief operating officer of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, found a way to turn a health issue into a motivating project. When his son, Mitchell, was diagnosed at age 2 with Type 1 diabetes, the Sandy Springsbased Abes family sought out avenues to get involved with JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation). “We immediately became active in the One Walk program that October,” Abes says, “and it became a tradition. Over the years, family and friends have joined us. We raise funds, make T-shirts, and last year we chaired the walk … but it’s really something that Mitchell and I get behind together.”

Abes has observed the way this level of consistent involvement has nurtured the charitable spirit of his son, who is now in high school. “It’s shown him the power of giving back in such a direct way,” he notes, “and I’m sure he’ll carry that with him throughout his life.” In fact, his son

(L-R) David, Julie, and Mitchell Abes participate yearly in the JDRF One Walk.

also focuses volunteer efforts on other health-related issues, particularly working with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to advance local hunger relief.

Abes received similar influence from his own father, Dr. Marshall Abes, a dentist who taught at Emory University and regularly offered up dental care for nonprofit clinics. “He is still very committed to community assistance and volunteers his services at the Ben Massell Dental Clinic,” Abes says of his dad. “His example to all of us has always been about sharing your talents and giving back. He’s very close with his children and grandchildren, so he has a great bond with Mitchell, too.”

(L-R) Hayden, Hollis and their dad, Bert, look forward to going on a Bert’s Big Adventure trip to Walt Disney World together. bestselfatlanta.com

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TALK THE TALK Buckhead/Sandy Springs-based radio host Bert Weiss has also found common ground with his sons through their mutual commitment to community action. Both of his sons share his passion for serving others and are fully devoted to the Bert’s Big Adventure (BBA) program, turning this mission into a special family tradition.

Since 2002, this nonprofit organization, which was founded by Bert and Stacey Weiss, has arranged spectacular trips to Walt Disney World for children with chronic and terminal illnesses. Each year, a new group of deserving kids—and their families— are treated to surprises galore on this adventure of a lifetime; the volunteers that assist on the trip give complete focus to the patients and their families in order to provide a magical journey to the “Happiest Place on Earth.”

The Weiss boys, Hayden,14, and Hollis,10, have truly grown up along with BBA. “They never miss the opportunity to be involved and over the years have made some great friends within this community,” Weiss says. “They aren’t quite ready to go on a trip yet. That’s something they need to work their way up to but it’s exciting to see them both set that goal for themselves. They’ll get there.”

For Weiss, making conscious efforts to establish family traditions takes powerful resonance. “Growing BEST SELF ATLANTA

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up, my family didn’t really have any traditions. We weren’t a tight group and my parents didn’t seem to place big value on being together,” he admits. When he met his former wife, Stacey, he saw a completely different approach through her close-knit family who treasured spending time together.

That motivated him to develop a new vision for his own children. “I see how important it is, and now there are certain things sacred to all of us—whether it’s our holidays or new routines we’re starting now. You know with boys, it can be tough to get them talking, tough to get anything out of them. But, when we are doing stuff together, that’s when we have conversations. We’re going to try cooking together once a week when they are at my house and I’m hoping that will be our next new tradition.”

REEL MEMORIES The men of the Singer family look forward to spending more time

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together each year on their annual post-Thanksgiving fishing trip. “This trip started almost 40 years ago,” Ben Singer recalls. “My dad, Bill, and his brother, my uncle Richard, me, and Richard’s son, Heath, went fishing down in Apalachicola, Florida and fell in love with the area. The next year a cousin went; then a brother-in-law, then other kids and cousins started going. What started out with three or four people can now be as many as 15. It’s grown into a tradition.”

A big tradition. Singer resides in Marietta today, but grew up in Thomaston, Georgia and the annual family Thanksgiving feast still takes place down there with over 50 relatives coming in from all over the country. The next day, the men of the family hit the road for two days at Apalachicola’s Bay City Lodge fishing camp. “There are some guidelines now. Generally speaking, boys must be at least 9 to go, and they cannot wait to be old enough,” Singer says. “Kids realize the importance of the

trip and look forward to being included.”

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presenting them with a gold hook to attach to their fishing hats.

It’s a mark of honor for newbies, but the best treasure is time spent in the boat and what’s pulled up on the lines.

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They fish all morning and return back to the docks in the afternoon, cleaning up quickly so they can start watching football. “My dad went to Georgia Tech and uncle Richard went to UGA, so that’s always a fun rivalry on Saturday after fishing. Little things make the trip special. Dad and uncle Richard have created an environment where the only expectation for the trip is to have fun, and everybody does,” Singer assures. “That time out on the boat becomes a safe, comfortable place to start talking. We always draw names out of a hat to see who goes in which boat, and that mixes up the group. Sitting out in the boat together for hours, chatting to pass the time, telling stories and sharing the hope of catching a fish. We fish for speckled trout, sheepshead, flounder and redfish, which have to be a certain regulated size to keep. The kids all want to catch their first ‘keeper’ red on the trip. And of course, we all live for the fish stories.”

JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), jdrf.org/georgia

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Go to BestSelfAtlanta.com to hear Steve and Rachel discuss how Ultimate Potential is the vision that can lead to you achieving success in your fitness goals!

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bestbites Bermuda Bound for Taste and Health

By Carolyn O’Neil, M.S., R.D.N.

Taste of Bermuda Bermuda’s mix of cuisines from the Caribbean, West Africa, Portugal, and jolly old England is deliciously diverse. When out on the island, look for local specialties such as Bermudian fish chowder and codfish cakes. The star of the show is certainly fresh seafood including spiny lobsters, black grouper and yellowfin tuna.

To bring the light and tropical taste of Bermuda to home cooking, slice lemons, limes or oranges in half and grill cut-side down. Grilling citrus mellows the acidic flavor and caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit. Also, the citrus juice squeezes out more easily on top of grilled fish, chicken or vegetables and is a low-calorie, salt-free addition with a big flavor bonus. You could even grill fresh limes to add to Bermuda-inspired Dark ‘n Stormy® cocktails.

A cool and creamy frozen dessert can be summer’s best friend.

Sorbet, also known as sorbetto in Italian, is simply frozen fruit with the addition of sugar. You can’t make a sorbet without sugar, which gives these icy fruit desserts their spoonable smoothness. But, look for sorbet brands with fewer than 30 grams of sugar per half serving.

In 2018, new nutrition facts labels will add a separate line to reveal the amount of added sugar per serving. That way you know how much sugar is coming from the mango in a mango sorbet and how much is cane sugar added to the recipe.

Nutrition plus: Fruit sorbets can be a source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Both nutrients are important for the health of our skin, certainly key with summertime’s revealing fashions!

Carolyn O’Neil, M.S., R.D.N. is the author of “The Slim Down South Cookbook: Eating Well and Living Healthy in the Land of Biscuits and Bacon.” Her blog is oneiloneating.com.

The island of Bermuda is set like a jewel about 800 miles off the coast of North Carolina. It’s easy to be on the beach by afternoon via a three-hour direct flight from Atlanta.

Long loved for its tropical, yet traditional feel (hello, Bermuda shorts), this British isle is blooming with brilliant new reasons to visit.

One shining example is Fairmont’s Hamilton Princess & Beach Club. For over 130 years, the Hamilton Princess hotel has welcomed guests to its tony in-town location planted perfectly next to the marina sparkling with yachts and harbor views.

The hotel’s Exhale spa offers treatments and fitness classes such as Core Fusion Barre, and Yoga. Or, jump in the hotel’s private transport to the Princess Beach Club to enjoy watersports and loll the day away on the pink sand with beach drinks in hand.

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Photos courtesy of Hamilton Princess & Beach Club (bottom left group and top right corner of top right group); Carolyn O’Neil (bottom right of top right group); photography by Nicole Franzen for the Hamilton Princess (remaining four).

Sorbets Simplified

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Photos courtesy of Hamilton Princess & Beach Club (bottom left group and top right corner of top right group); Carolyn O’Neil (top right corner); photography by Nicole Franzen for the Hamilton Princess (remaining four).

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A Monthly Health Series Brought to You by Kaiser Permanente of Georgia

Screen Time Guidelines for Children Is your toddler already swiping across your smartphone, FaceTiming with family and friends, and confusing Siri with incoherent questions? Tired of wrestling it away for fear that screen time could hinder their development? Parents, take a sigh of relief.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has new guidelines for media use among infants and toddlers.

David W. Jones, M.D. Chief of Pediatrics for Kaiser Permanente of Georgia

This month, he explains the recent changes to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for media use among young children.

First released in 1999, the AAP’s initial recommendations for media use advised parents to avoid screen time for children under 2 years old. After reviewing the latest research about media use and its potential for educational benefit, the AAP recently issued a new set of guidelines with a key update: If parents choose to introduce screen media to a child between 18-24 months of age, they should watch along with the child.

The AAP suggests toddlers age 18 to 24 months may benefit from high-quality, educational programming—if an adult is watching with them. To facilitate learning, parents are encouraged to reteach the content to their children and put it in real-world context. For example, if you are watching a television program with your child focused on colors, ask your child to identify those colors in their surroundings. Social interaction with an adult, the AAP points out, is critical to helping children develop cognitive, language, motor and socio-emotional skills.

For children younger than 18 months, the AAP stands firm on its recommendation of no screen time, with one exception: live video chats. While there is no evidence that infants benefit from FaceTiming with family and friends, research has shown that 2-year-olds can learn words from video conversations with responsive adults.

Starting at age 2, the AAP recommends no more than an hour each day of high-quality programming, such as Sesame Street, until a child reaches age 5. Again, caregivers are encouraged to co-view with children and help them understand the concepts presented in the programs watched.

The one-hour time limit is supported by evidence that links excessive media use with a higher risk of obesity later in life. In a recent study of 2-year-olds, researchers saw an uptick in body mass index (BMI) for every hour of media watched weekly.

Excessive television viewing during early childhood years continues to be associated with developmental delays.

There is no denying the positive role that media plays in our lives. It can connect, educate and entertain us. But for the youngest among us, who are undergoing rapid brain development, media use can also be damaging. During this critical period, unplug and connect with your children through interactive play and learning activities that stimulate their young minds.

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7th Annual

Over 40&

Fabulous!

Photos by Sawyer Photography

Move over millennials, these Over 40 & Fabulous! contest winners steal the spotlight. From business to broadcasting, health care to human rights, and fitness to philanthropy, our winners reflect the energy and enthusiasm that makes 40 and beyond a season of life to celebrate.

Meet them all—and the contest’s Advisory Board members—on the following pages!

Pictured L-R (back row): Steve Hightower, Brandie Park, Lisa M. Washington, Christine Pullara, Kim Steen Langan, Randall K. Smith. (front row): Tran Bui Smith, Michele Thomas, Jennifer Curtin, Jennifer Hankey, Robin Fink.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Winner - Lisa M. Washington

After kidney disease nearly stole her life, 46-year-old B’Tyli Wellness and Beauty Co. CEO, Lisa M. Washington, is dedicated to living life on her own terms.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger? It hasn’t changed a whole lot. I always dreamt of being here. When I was younger, I looked at the women in my life in their 40s and I saw this great freedom of expression and confidence. In my 20s, I would tell my friends I couldn’t wait to turn 40. I am so grateful that I had women in my life that epitomized beauty, grace, and power in this era of their lives.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? After battling kidney disease for 35 years, being unconscious in the hospital for three days, being on dialysis for three months, receiving a kidney transplant, and starting a beauty and wellness company, with God, my best accomplishment has been living and dreaming out loud despite it all.

What is your favorite book? Outside of the Bible, it is “The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself” by Michael A. Singer.

What is your favorite way to give back? The biggest way I love to give back is by helping others establish well-being in their body, mind and spirit. I have a long list of organizations I’ve worked with in the past and work with currently, including HOPE worldwide, Georgia Transplant Foundation, Junior Achievement USA®, Autism Speaks, Youth Villages - Inner Harbour Campus, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry Campaign, and Children Helping Children.

What is your favorite way to workout? Yoga, walking and a little strength training.

What is your favorite healthy meal? Baked halibut with lemon, parsley, pistachio pistou and roasted veggies with a side of my quinoa pilaf. For dessert, it’s my Vegan Vanilla Bean Green Matcha Panna Cotta with wild blueberries. I am a personal chef, too. I love food.

Who are the experts/professionals who help you be your best self? My chiropractor, Dr. Julie Marie Lord, at Chat Hills Chiropractic located in Serenbe. Emily Hutchinson, L.E., L.M.E., and Paramedical at Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center and Southern Plastic Surgery. Meghan Madhavi Burke, founding director of the Healing Arts Centre. Jeju Sauna. Ebb & Flow Yoga and Surf. Life Time Fitness. My hairstylist, Brandi McWilliams at Keri Gold Salon. My massage therapist, Loyale, the owner of The Green Room Massage and Wellness.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous? Enjoy every decade of your life fully. Live fully where you are. Love fully where you are.

Make mistakes fully where you are and learn from them.

Forgive others and yourself.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Inspiration Award - Tran Bui Smith For 45-year-old Tran Bui Smith, her 40s are the culmination of a lifelong path toward self acceptance and self discovery. She couldn’t be more grateful for where those revelations have led her.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger?

Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? My parents, Thu and Bich Bui, were in their 20s when they had children. They faced huge challenges during that time—fled Vietnam by boat, moved to a new country, learned English, worked multiple jobs and put four children through college. They had worked so hard and accomplished so much by the time they reached 40. That kind of work ethic and drive forces me to step up my game.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? In 2010, I looked around and saw all the things my children had in their lives and came up with the idea for a family volunteer group called Little Helpers. I convinced a couple of friends to join me and today we have chapters in Memphis, Rochester, N.Y., Mooresville and Charlotte, N.C., Denver, Las Vegas, Fairfield, Conn., and Atlanta.

We’ve even taken it to Ireland and Vietnam.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?

Professionally, my greatest accomplishment was receiving an Emmy Award for a show titled “Traveling with Tots” that I cocreated and hosted. It was a labor of love and the best part was that I got to work with my friends and family.

Personally, the nonprofit I co-founded, Little Helpers, has changed my life. When I get frustrated or saddened by what goes on in the world, I am reminded that there is still so much good in it that I am literally brought to tears. There are angels on Earth who give their time and hearts so freely. I am constantly inspired by these volunteers.

Name something on your bucket list. The biggest thing on my bucket list was finally fulfilled last year. I had made so many excuses, but after more than 40 years, I returned to Vietnam. Even though I was only 3 when my family fled during the Fall of Saigon, I had such regret for leaving the rest of our relatives behind. I felt guilty for finding freedom, while they struggled under Communist rule.

I thought our language barrier, experiences and differences would prevent us from connecting with one another, but when I came face-to-face with my uncle, aunts and cousins, the love we felt was instant. There was no judgment, guilt or jealousy. The goodbyes were long. It was a trip of discovery. I am forever grateful for my life, but something was missing and I didn’t even know it.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous? For most of my young life, I tried to hide from the real me. I wanted a different name, look, and even, history. I wanted to fit in. My advice is to embrace what makes you stand out. The Vietnamese girl who begged to change her name to Jennifer became an award-winning newscaster with a name people didn’t forget, then ended up marrying a Smith. I love how life teaches you these beautiful lessons! bestselfatlanta.com

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Give-Back Award Steve Hightower

Compared to where he is today, Steve Hightower, 52, owner of Steve Hightower Hair Salon & Day Spa, came from humble beginnings. It’s that background that motivates him to inspire others to reach their full potential.

What makes you laugh? Life. And shocking people in a fun, harmless way.

Anderson Center for Hair

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Dr. Ken Anderson

Dr. Ashley R. Curtis

Dermatology Associates of Atlanta

What is your favorite way to workout? Walking, stretching at home, gardening, and doing yard work.

Dr. Aaron Fletcher

What is your favorite healthy meal? I love grilled salmon.

Dr. Dina J. Giesler

In 2010, I founded my main charity event, the Thriving Children Gala. This gala has always benefited children and youth in need.

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From the Advisory Board members and prize package contributors to the people who made the photo shoot and party a success, we couldn’t have done it without you.

2017 Over 40 & Fabulous!

Advisory Board:

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? The charities I help are small local charities that assist children in need and the disabled. I have supported The Center for Children & Young Adults, Inc., Childkind, FOCUS + Fragile Kids, My Sister’s House, Living Room, and National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC), just to name a few.

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Thank you to everyone who supported this year’s Over 40 & Fabulous! contest.

What is the best thing you’ve learned about yourself since turning 40?

Patience pays off.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?

My success in life. I am from a poor family and I am not ashamed of it, but I wanted more from life than what I saw around me. I want to show others that you can be more than where you are from.

Where you are from is not who you are.

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2017

Georgia Center for Ear, Nose & Throat

Karen Foley

Windy Hill Athletic Club Atlanta Smiles & Wellness

Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker Atlanta Face & Body Center

Nyssa Green

The Green Room Agency

Tom Sullivan

TV Host and Corporate Emcee

All prize package contributors: Amazing Lash Studio Anderson Center for Hair and Aesthetics Atlanta Face & Body Center Atlanta Smiles & Wellness Ballroom Dance Clubs of Atlanta Château Élan (overall winner only) Dermatology Associates of Atlanta Georgia Center for Ear, Nose & Throat Steve Hightower Hair Salon & Day Spa Windy Hill Athletic Club

Special thanks to ...

Novare Events and The Biltmore Ballrooms for hosting our winner photo shoot. The Green Room Agency for creating beautiful hair and makeup. Under the Cork Tree for all of the delicious food provided during the winner photo shoot. Sub-Zero Group Southeast for hosting our annual Winner Reveal Party. Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar for our fantastic Over 40 awards. Fresh 'N Fit Cuisine for providing tasty food for our Meet the Experts event at our Best Self studio. bestselfatlanta.com

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Brandie Park

Christine Pullara Brandie Park, 41, is as driven in her work as a sales consultant as she is to giving back to the organizations that helped shape her into the woman she is today.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger?

Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? My parents have always been very active. At my age, they were avid water-skiers, played volleyball weekly with their friends and were active in the community. I am fortunate to never have had a number in my head that I considered “old.”

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I am most dedicated to the large youth development organization, Georgia 4-H Club Foundation, Inc. I have been a trustee on their board for over a decade. I was a 4-H’er growing up and credit that organization with teaching me public speaking skills, how to take initiative, and how to manage others.

What inspired you to do this particular kind of charity work? I believe in giving someone a leg up through education and opportunity. Growing up in a rural community, I would have never been exposed to the personal development activities I was able to participate in without organizations like 4-H or “Y” Clubs.

What makes you laugh? My family and my friends. My husband and I are comedy nerds and love to see stand-up comics and improv shows. My son even attends summer camp at the Whole World Improv Theatre every year. bestselfatlanta.com

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“Atlanta & Company,” WXIA-TV host Christine Pullara, 48, knows the power of a good story and that abandoning the pursuit of perfection to enjoy life makes for the ultimate tale.

What is the best thing you’ve learned about yourself since turning 40? I’ve learned to accept my imperfections in my marriage, my parenting, and my job. I’m really hard on myself. I think it’s OK to be forgiving of mistakes or missteps, but of course, I always strive to learn, grow, and figure out how to do better next time.

What is your favorite quote? “This, too, shall pass.” I used to only think of it in a context of working through hard times, but now I think of it as a reminder that time is fleeting and every moment counts. So, savor and be grateful for the good ones!

What is your favorite book? “Living, Loving & Learning” by Leo F. Buscaglia, Ph.D. My mom had it when I was growing up and I read it after my parents divorced. His messages of joy and love are timeless.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community?

There are so many worthy causes that need our attention, but I have a few organizations that are near and dear to my heart such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS), Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance, CURE Childhood Cancer, Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry Campaign, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Name something on your bucket list.

Going to Paris with my family and having a picnic at the Eiffel Tower! Oh, and I’d love to do a segment with Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford!

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Jennifer Curtin

Randall K. Smith

Business consultant and med spa owner, Jennifer Curtin, 46, realizes the importance of slowing down and enjoying the ride toward achieving her goals.

Randall K. Smith, 51, owner of RKS COUTURE and The Randall Effect, is a champion for women. The pageant coach, who also serves as the national educational director and distributor of Dudley Beauty Corp, LLC., helps equip women with skills to succeed on and off the stage.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?

My son, Colin, 11, and daughter, Carson, 6.

What is your most embarrassing moment?

Showing up to a client meeting with two different shoes on.

What is your favorite way to workout? I like to take classes. My favorites are the Full Body Class at Stellar Bodies and the West Coast Barre and Best of the West classes at West Coast Workout.

What is your favorite book? Right now, I’m reading “Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy” by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam M. Grant Ph.D., and loving it.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I think it is important for everyone to get involved with their community and help wherever they can. I love the work that Tapestri Inc. and Open Hand are doing. Tapestri supports survivors of human trafficking and helps increase awareness. Open Hand provides nutritious meals to the sick, elderly and underserved. They are always in need of help in the kitchen and with delivering meals. Every September, there is also a fundraising event for Open Hand that everyone can attend called Party in the Kitchen.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous? Try to enjoy every step of your journey. Sometimes, we are in such a hurry to achieve our goals that we don’t enjoy the adventure.

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What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?

Successfully working with so many pageant contestants and seeing them grow beyond measure. Pageants are not just about outer beauty. It’s the beauty from within that allows contestants to set high goals and become doctors, lawyers, corporate executives, educators, models, actors, singers, socialites, and domestic goddesses. They take the lessons learned from their pageant preparation to the boardroom, classroom and the home to succeed and change the lives of others, as well as their own.

What is your favorite book? “Think Like a Winner!” by Dr. Walter Doyle Staples.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I love giving back! The three main organizations I am currently focusing on are Mercy Care, Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation, and Renaissance Kares.

What is your favorite way to workout? I like jogging, walking, and of course, walking while shopping.

What is your favorite healthy meal? I’m gluten free, so my favorite meal includes salmon, asparagus, broccoli, or any other green vegetable.

Name something on your bucket list. When I turned 40, it was to go parasailing. Now, I think I might need to be more grounded. I would love to live abroad, as opposed to visiting, for a few years to experience living outside the United States. bestselfatlanta.com

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! FAB 5 CONTEST WINNERS

Jennifer Hankey After a harrowing journey to find a natural way to treat her daughter’s life-threatening eczema, Jennifer Hankey, 42, discovered her purpose as “The Green Queen” of nontoxic living.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger? Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? My mom was diving with great white sharks and bungee jumping off Victoria Falls in her 40s.

That zest for life and sense of adventure has certainly passed down to me.

What is your favorite way to workout? I like to work up a sweat doing cardio and playing tennis when I have time.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? Healing my daughter, Hayden, 5, from her eczema and allergies and helping other moms who are going through health struggles with their children find natural healing.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous? I know this sounds cliché, but do what you love. The success will come to you.

You spend almost your whole life doing what you do for work. You have to find what you love and love what you do for those eight to 10 hours a day it takes to get the job done.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years? At 62, I hope I can look back at a world that was made healthier and less toxic in some way by my efforts as the owner of Green Queen: Nontoxic Services. I hope that we’ll see healthier children with less chronic conditions. We can turn the tide on all the toxic chemicals in our environment and become good stewards of the earth and of all the animals and people who live here. bestselfatlanta.com

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Kim Steen Langan For Kim Steen Langan, 42, owner and founder of Intown Tumbling and Yoga for Kids, her 40s have brought her greatest adventure yet—motherhood.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger? Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? Personally, I’m still a little shocked that I’m over 40. Time is a strange thing. At 40, my parents were having a great time! I’m a new mom, so life looks pretty different for me than it was for them. I’m having a great time, too, but in a much different way.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I am involved in the Atlanta Yoga Movement, which is a nonprofit program that brings yoga into metro Atlanta schools. I am also a member of the MorningsideAnsley Friends of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta group.

What inspired you to do this particular kind of charity work? I have always been passionate about working with children. When I was a kid, I suffered from self-esteem issues, as a lot of kids do. In my work with children, I really do my best to help each child see what makes them unique. All children should feel cared about.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous?

Don’t feel like you have to have it all figured out. You don’t. I’m still figuring it out as I go and having a blast seeing where life takes me. I do that by being as present as possible in each moment.

Enjoy the ride!

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Robin Fink

Michele Thomas

It’s said that dogs are drawn to people with good hearts.

That must be true for realtor Robin Fink, 42. The dog lover devotes her spare time to helping them find forever homes.

A development specialist at Morehouse School of Medicine, Michele Thomas, 47, doesn’t let lupus hold her back from honoring the legacy of civil rights leaders through her volunteer work.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger? Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? After I turned 40, and got into my new decade, I realized 40 is a number and that life is even greater now.

The older you get, the more you realize the little stuff doesn’t matter and, no matter the challenge, everything works out exactly as it’s supposed to.

What makes you laugh? Situations where something funny happens and I am not “supposed” to laugh—those make me laugh the hardest.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I support dog rescue organizations such as You Lucky Dog Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc. and Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. I transport, foster and do home checks. When I am busy and can’t donate my time, I then donate my money. When friends and acquaintances in the rescue world send me business, I donate $500 from each closing to a rescue of their choice.

In addition, I support a great organization called BeLoved Atlanta, Inc. that my clients started. BeLoved works to get women out of sexual exploitation situations and into group homes. Through their programs, these women can live a normal life without abuse.

What inspired you to do this particular kind of charity work? I love dogs and always have. I started rescuing dogs in college. They always seem to find me. And I thought BeLoved was a great organization because I want everyone to have the opportunity to succeed in life.

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What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?

As a lupus survivor, I accept the fact that I am beautifully flawed.

What is your favorite book? “One Day My Soul Just Opened Up: 40 Days and 40 Nights Toward Spiritual Strength and Personal Growth” by Iyanla Vanzant.

What is your favorite way to workout?

Using a combination of the treadmill, free weights, resistance bands and the balance ball allows me to work my entire body.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? For the past 18 years, I have served as a steering committee member and/or committee co-chair for The King Holiday Observance, commemorating the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For the past three years, I have also served as a member of the SCLC/W.O.M.E.N, INC. steering committee for the Drum Major for Justice Awards Gala, commemorating the legacy of Dr. King by providing a forum to recognize today’s drum majors who are making outstanding contributions in our community.

What inspired you to do this kind of charity work? The pleasure of working directly with the late, great, Coretta Scott King and Jesse Hill Jr. inspires me to continue my mission of service in their honor.

What makes you laugh? Life! It is full of lessons and laughable moments. I use laughter to replace tears.

What is your most embarrassing moment? I once tripped while walking up a flight of stairs onstage in front of an audience. bestselfatlanta.com

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Fab Five Contest Winners Voting results were so close that we wanted to recognize these next Fab Five winners who enhance the lives of those in their communities, whether through medicine or activism.

Pictured L-R: Kim Dennis, Kim Saunders, Leigh Mallis, Mrs. Stephanie Jester, Dr. Lisa Billars

e v i F b T he Fa Kim Saunders As the owner of Lift Yoga Studio, this 54-year-old California transplant extends her helping hands across the globe.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community?

I love to teach free yoga classes for our community, wherever and whenever I can. You might find a Lift Yoga Studio class at the library, at local parks, at Avalon or at community centers.

In addition, our studio and students donate to Himalayan Children’s Charities and have ‘adopted’ Sita, a child who lost everything in a devastating earthquake two years ago. We just paid for a recent surgery for her and we are optimistic about her education and future.

Name something on your bucket list. I want to see that stunning water in Tahiti. I’d also love to go to Nepal and meet our Himalayan ‘orphan.’

Where do you go for “me” time? My back porch. I fell in love with all the trees when I moved to Georgia—their beauty inspires me!

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! TOP 10 CONTEST WINNERS

Dr. Lisa Billars

Kim Dennis

As a wife, mother and Chief of Departments of Neurology and Sleep Medicine at Kaiser Permanente, this 41-year-old considers her life fabulously full.

An avid mentor and voice for those without one, Kim Dennis, 46, finds joy in helping others through her nonprofit work with Create Your Dreams. She also makes it a point to not take life too seriously.

How has your perception of this age changed since you were younger?

Did your parents look and act at 40 the way you do? I thought I would feel more settled in life at this point, which is how my parents appeared to me then. At 41, I have the benefit of abundant life experience, but can still see so much potential in life.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? My three great kids, Peter, 9, Jake, 7, and Alexandra, 4. They are a labor of love every single day.

How do you maintain the balance between self-care, family and work responsibilities, and giving back? Being mindful of how fortunate I am to be busy doing all these wonderful things helps me to refocus when things get overwhelming. I am very fortunate to have an amazing partner in my husband, Dan, as well as a career that is tremendously rewarding.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? Through my relationship with Create Your Dreams, I help provide the vital resources, opportunities, and relationships for children living below the poverty line. It is a privilege to be called a mentor, second mom, and friend by my students and our alumni.

What is the best thing you’ve learned about yourself since turning 40? I can embrace change. It is never too late for your life to completely change directions.

What is your favorite book? My favorite book is “Harold and the Purple Crayon”

by Crockett Johnson because we all sometimes need a reminder that we have the power to create our reality and have a little fun!

Mrs. Stephanie Jester This 52-year-old business owner and entrepreneur has enjoyed the fruits of success.

But now, she aims her focus on building up those around her as the founder and director of the FreeWishes Foundation.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? Introducing my family to the importance of building legacies by starting and practicing good business. I am the founder of INTouch Properties & Management Services and the business/general manager of Freebandz, an entertainment label I started with my son, Future.

As one of the world’s top talents, I couldn’t be more proud of the fact that my son looks to me to make decisions that contribute to the ever-evolving culture of music.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? The FreeWishes Foundation is an organization my daughter and I introduced. Every year, we execute programming in the Kirkwood community that my children grew up in, and at senior centers that foster healthy and happy lifestyles.

What is your favorite book? The book that I find most guidance in is the Bible.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! FAB 5 CONTEST WINNERS

Leigh Mallis After walking out on the corporate world in 2004, Leigh Mallis, 42, found a higher calling by sharing with others the very principles of yoga and meditation that renewed her.

She is now a Pranic Soul, yoga and meditation teacher.

What advice do you have for someone who isn’t yet over 40 and fabulous? Spend less time judging yourself and others.

What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? Following my passion of yoga and meditation as a way to create work-life balance. I have the opportunity to certify students to teach and share the same styles of yoga and meditation that have greatly transformed my life.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community? There are several charities that I’ve had an opportunity to donate yoga classes and private sessions to as a way to raise money for causes. JDRF is close to my heart. My brother-in-law has Type 1 diabetes and started JDRF Rock the Cure, which I participate in each year.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Dermatology & Skin Care Ashley R. Curtis, M.D. Board-Certified Dermatologist Dermatology Associates of Atlanta

H

ow did you become interested in your profession? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? As a child, I actually went to

the dermatologist quite often because I had a family history of skin cancer, and because I have a lot of moles, I was at a high risk for developing skin cancer. Over the years, I developed an interest in being a dermatologist myself.

Tell us about your professional background. My undergraduate degree is actually in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech, and I went to medical school at Medical College of Georgia before completing my residency with Wake Forest University’s Department of Dermatology. During my residency, I developed a special interest in hair loss, and in my continued experience, I have also gained a passion for other aspects of skin care, such as antiaging treatments, laser procedures, etc.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? I knew that I would enjoy caring for

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? My first professional mentor Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

was Dr. Amy McMichael, who I worked with during my residency at Wake Forest University. She is an incredible physician to learn from, as is my other mentor, Dr. Edmond Griffin, whom I now work with at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, and The Griffin Center of Hair Restoration and Research.

What is your professional philosophy? My overall philosophy as a physician is to put the interests of my patients first. I’ve found that the best care comes from a combination

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Photo courtesy of Dermatology Associates of Atlanta.

my patients as a dermatologist, but I was pleasantly surprised by just how well I would get to know them. As passionate as I am about the medicine itself, my favorite part of my job is getting to know my patients. In some cases, I watch families grow and I love seeing what my patients do with their lives.

My regular patients have become like family to me, and it’s so rewarding to see them feel confident in their skin.

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of thorough medical knowledge and a genuine concern for every patient, so that is what I strive for.

What keeps you motivated? Being motivated is just a part of my nature. I have a background in efficiency as an industrial engineer, so as much motivation as my patients themselves give me, I also enjoy being busy and efficient.

What are some of your ultimate goals in your line of profession? Ultimately, it’s all about improving quality of life. I love helping patients manage chronic skin conditions as well as find self-esteem that they’ve lost or, in some cases, that they’ve never had before.

How do you stay on top of the cutting-edge trends in your industry? My practice is very active in a variety of medical organizations and in staying on top of all the latest medical advancements.

Some of the best learning experiences I’ve had include meetings for the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, the American Academy of Dermatology, and other organizations.

(L-R) Top row: Edmond I. Griffin, M.D., Delmer L. Henderson, PA-C, Ashley R. Curtis, M.D., D. Scott Karempelis, M.D., Bottom row: Kathryn Filipek, PA-C, Mara P. Grosswald, PA-C, Stephen J. Kraus, M.D., Joseph R. Payne, M.D.

Before & Afters

Out of all of the other people in your field, why should people turn to you? What makes you and your practice unique? One piece of feedback I repeatedly hear from patients is that they feel very at ease in our office. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is a down-to-earth practice where we truly pride ourselves on caring for our patients and giving them a comfortable experience.

BEFORE

AFTER

Ultherapy®

What do you want to be known for? As a doctor, Photos courtesy of Dermatology Associates of Atlanta.

Photo courtesy of Dermatology Associates of Atlanta.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

I strive to be someone who goes the extra mile and who always looks for ways to improve my patient’s care. And as an everyday person, I hope to be seen as someone who is just a caring and good-hearted person.

This nonsurgical skin tightening procedure uses ultrasound energy to help your body build natural, skin-firming collagen.

Describe yourself in three words. Motivated, compassionate, and an effective multitasker.

Is there any other information about you and your business you would like to highlight?

Our motto at DAA is “great skin care from head to toe,” and that is truly the way we operate. We treat all of our patients’ needs for their skin, hair, and nails, to help them both look and feel their best. bestselfatlanta.com

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BEFORE

AFTER

Acne Scar Surgery This procedure at DAA uses a variety of techniques to minimize even deep facial scars.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Ear, Nose & Throat

Aaron Fletcher, M.D. Board-Certified Head and Neck Surgeon Georgia Center for Ear, Nose & Throat

H

ow did you become interested in ENT? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? Actually, my background is in English

as a writer. My father is a carpenter by trade and my father’s father was a barber. I come from a long line of Fletcher men that work with their hands and I wanted to carry on that tradition in some way.

Tell us about your professional background. When I decided to become a surgeon, I trained all over the country in general surgery, ear, nose and throat surgery, and in plastic surgery. I’m pretty well-rounded.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? We study medicine as a

Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

science, but I think it is equal part art as it is science. I have learned a lot about people and the human condition—what people are like, what they feel, what they fear, what they are anxious about, and what they are looking for when they go to the doctor. Every time I am with a patient, I come away feeling that I have learned as much as I have taught.

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? One of the major ones is Dr. Duane A. Sewell. He is the person who got me interested in ear, nose and throat. He has since passed on,

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Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

A lot of my background in English is brought forth in my practice of medicine, especially as it relates to the way I teach patients. I pride myself on my bedside manner and being thorough. I want patients to understand what is going on before we agree to do any type of treatment. I have also written patient education materials and textbooks. I was a teacher in a former life. I used to teach ninth grade biology. I also bring my life experience to the table. People are usually pretty surprised that I am even a doctor. I have to show them my gray hair to prove I have the experience and the training under my belt.

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unfortunately, but he was probably the biggest influence on me deciding to have a career in this specialty. He taught me everything I know about professionalism, dedicating yourself to your craft, and perfecting the way you approach patients.

My undergraduate mentor was a man by the name of “Dean” Thomas J. Blocker. He is the one who convinced me to pursue medicine.

My father was a big intellectual who inspired me to push the limits of my knowledge.

He encouraged me to layer different life experiences to become more well-rounded.

What is your business philosophy?

Define your own parameters. Don’t let anyone tell you what you should do business wise.

What keeps you motivated? I constantly want to improve. I recognize my limitations. I am pretty young in practice and I know there is still a lot to learn. The field is always changing and there is a lot of information to wrap your head around. I try to be a resource for people and do the best I can. You can’t be a resource unless you are motivated to be your best. The things I don’t know probably motivate me the most.

How do you stay on top of the cutting-edge trends in the industry?

Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

I do a lot of reading. I go to a lot of courses to try to perfect my surgical skills. I search for other doctors in my field that are doing cuttingedge work. I try to find things from other disciplines and things that people aren’t doing that I can apply to medicine to make my job easier or better.

What do you want to be known for? I try to treat every patient like a family member.

A lot of patients come in to talk to me about their heart or something not ENT related because they feel so comfortable talking to me. I have put together a staff that shares this family environment philosophy. From the minute you come in the door to the minute you leave, we try to cultivate that experience. bestselfatlanta.com

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Patient Testimonial “Professionalism is the word that comes to mind when I think about my experience with Dr. Fletcher and his staff. Everyone is courteous and competent. Dr. Fletcher never rushes. He takes his time to explain everything to you so that you leave with full understanding. He’s very upfront and honest.

I wish he was my primary care doctor.”

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Fitness

Karen Foley General Manager Windy Hill Athletic Club

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ow long has Windy Hill Athletic Club been in Atlanta? Although our club was built in 1989,

it has been part of the Midtown Athletic Clubs since 2008. The club is formally known as Sporting Club at Windy Hill and Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill. Our owners understood the importance of the name change here in Atlanta, and so while we are still a Midtown club, our name changed two years ago to Windy Hill Athletic Club.

whatever way that works best for them … and we want them to have fun too. Our goal is to truly inspire through movement, community, and personal attention. We want this location to be a destination and we want our members to feel like they are part of this community. We want to be known for recognizing them not just as members but for who they are as individuals.

We hope to capture that essence through our campaign called slash everything.

What keeps your team motivated? Knowing that they make a difference and seeing the results of our members.

They love what they do and they are amazing at that. I’m extremely proud of our team at Windy Hill and couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with me every day.

How does Windy Hill stay on top of cutting-edge trends in the industry? Our company isn’t afraid to take a risk to see if something works. Steven Schwartz, our CEO and owner, believes in what our promise is to the members and empowers the teams in the field to make it happen. It’s a family-owned business. Our staff is empowered to find what is working in the industry, in our local area and give it a try.

For instance, boxing and kickboxing have become huge at our club because we were allowed to create this experience for members by building a small studio, hiring instructors and designing a program.

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Photos courtesy of Jon Ramirez, FB Sports Media (top left); Ward+Kweskin (bottom left).

What are some of Windy Hill’s ultimate goals in the fitness industry? We want our members to move in

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Out of all of the other fitness clubs out there, why should people turn to Windy Hill? What makes Windy Hill unique? Our club has it all. Any way that you want to move, we are going to provide that element and do it well. Most importantly, we have the people that are the heart behind it all. Our coaches, staff, and team believe in our members and want to see them succeed. You will be part of a community and part of a family. Plus, we have awesome events and it’s always a good time hanging out in our full-service cafÊ.

Are there any causes, initiatives or philanthropies Windy Hill is a part of? Windy Hill participates in giving back to the community on many levels. Our most cherished cause is our work with the Special Olympics. We are also involved in charity events throughout the year in the local communities of Smyrna, Vinings, Marietta, and East Cobb. We love to participate with the Angel Tree program, which benefits the Ronald McDonald House during the holidays and provides the best holidays for the families in need.

In addition, we also do events in honor of our armed forces and work with the local Army recruiting office, Dobbins Air Reserve Base and the Wounded Warrior Project. For 10 years, Windy Hill was the sole location of the Atlanta Ovarian Cycle ride, which helped support the awareness of ovarian cancer.

Is there any other information about your team or Windy Hill Athletic Club that you would like to highlight? We are just as much about moving and working out as we are about being social.

We offer social events each month for many occasions.

We offer themed parties for the holidays, breakfast events for member appreciation, networking functions, tennis socials, family-friendly activities and more.

Photos courtesy of Ward+Kweskin.

Photos courtesy of Jon Ramirez, FB Sports Media (top left); Ward+Kweskin (bottom left).

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

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Cosmetic Dentistry

Dina J. Giesler, D.D.S., M.A.G.D. Master General and Cosmetic Dentist Atlanta Smiles & Wellness

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ow did you become interested in your profession? I began working at an orthodontic

practice in 1980 when I was a 17-year-old senior in high school. Then, I worked as a dental assistant in a multidisciplinary practice before becoming a hygienist. In 1984, I graduated as a hygienist. When I began dental school in 1987, I had worked with over 55 dentists, so I saw many types of practices and specialized dentistry. I knew I wanted to be a cosmetic dentist.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? I was surprised by how much time, dedication and sacrifice it really takes to become a Master Dentist (there are currently only 2,200 in the country). The 10,000-hours concept is true for whatever you do. I never stop learning and evolving. The best dentists are true entrepreneurs who have to be efficient in business as well as clinical dentistry.

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? There have been so many!

In Houston, it’s Drs. Roy Bell, Eddie Lee, and Susana Paoloski.

In New York, it’s Dr. Larry Rosenthal.

patients the way I would want to be treated. I am honest and forthcoming. I believe in helping others out of a loving heart and doing what is right and ethical.

Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

What’s the most satisfying part of your job? What do you love most about your work? I love that I’m serving others. I’m not only passionate about helping people achieve the smile of their dreams, but I also enjoy spreading health and nutrition education so people can live a more productive and healthy life.

What keeps you motivated? My family, my business partner—Dr. Marianna Kovitch, my fellow colleagues, my patients, and my soul sisters all keep me motivated.

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Photo courtesy of Dan Sawyer, Sawyer Photography.

What is your business philosophy? I treat my

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What are some of your ultimate goals in doing this work? I want to help as many people as possible achieve their ultimate goals in health and aesthetic dentistry.

What’s the most commonly requested service or procedure you perform for clients over the age of 40? Smile makeovers are very popular. They include teeth whitening, teeth straightening, metal-less crowns and porcelain veneers.

Our patients also love receiving Botox® and other fillers. It works out perfectly because they’re coming in every six months to have their teeth cleaned anyway.

How do you stay on top of cutting-edge trends in your industry? I mentor and I teach. I spend a lot of time at New York University giving back and mentoring younger dentists who aspire to be leaders in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Plus, I learn and share with the other instructors.

Out of all of the other people in your field, why should people turn to you? What makes you and your practice unique? We get to know

Photos courtesy of Dan Sawyer, Sawyer Photography (top); Atlanta Smiles & Wellness (bottom).

Photo courtesy of Dan Sawyer, Sawyer Photography.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

our patients. We are not a clinic or a corporate office where you have to go to the dentist on your plan. We are a private practice where we become family. We give you many options. We listen to what our patients want and help educate them on doing what’s best for them at this time in their lives. We work with the best specialists in Atlanta. We are not pushy. My goal as a cosmetic dentist is to give you a great smile with natural, beautiful teeth.

Dr. Marianna Kovitch and Dr. Dina J. Giesler

Before & Afters

What do you want to be known for? I want to be known for inspiring others to be the best they can be while being a faithful servant and doing what God has called me to do. I want to spread education and joy and take care of my fellow man, no matter who they are.

Is there any other information about you and your business you would like to highlight?

We have a domestic violence foundation called the Atlanta Smiles Foundation (atlantasmiles.com). We serve survivors of emotional and domestic abuse recommended to us by law enforcement and staff at local shelters. We help them regain their self-esteem and get back into the workforce.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Hair Restoration

Ken Anderson, M.D. Founder Anderson Center for Hair

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ow did you become interested in your profession? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? Before I started specializing in

hair restoration, I was a facial plastic surgeon. In 2003, I began a private practice in Beverly Hills. When I was in California, what really struck me was how happy the hair restoration patients were when they came back to see me. In 2009, the Emory Facial Center recruited me as a hair restoration specialist. I then went on to continue specializing in hair restoration and opened the Anderson Center for Hair.

Tell us about your professional background. I’m the only facial plastic surgeon in the world who has exclusively practiced hair restoration surgery for over a decade. My boutique-style practice is 100 percent dedicated to treating hair loss in both men and women. It is one of the most prominent in the Southeast United States.

In 2013, we became the first, and only practice, in Georgia to receive the ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant System.

much artistic talent it takes to sit in a chair and perform hair transplants. When I am creating hairlines, I am literally drawing on people’s foreheads. That is my canvas, if you will. I love it because I feel like I am doing one of my drawings. The results are very heavily dependent on the artistic talent and passion of the surgeon.

Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

What is your business philosophy? We put patient care and patient outcomes first. The consultations are very relaxed.

I like to sit in my office and talk options with patients. Maybe platelet rich plasma (PRP) isn’t right for you. Maybe lasers or surgery are a better fit for your situation.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job? What do you love most about your work? What I love most about 66

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Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? What surprised me most was how

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the field of hair restoration surgery is how happy and satisfied the patients are when their hair grows in.

What are some of your ultimate goals in doing this work? People are reluctant to come to a doctor for hair restoration surgery because they’re afraid of bad hair transplant jobs. I want to show people that this is not your father’s hair surgery.

These are not hair plugs. It’s a hair-by-hair transplant, and looks completely natural—because it is. During private consultations, I show patients how we apply traditional medical principles and today’s technology to hair restoration surgery.

What keeps you motivated? We have stem cells, lasers and robots. It is so much different now than it was five to 10 years ago. It continues to evolve at a rapid pace. It is really exciting to be on the cutting edge of some of these treatments. I love that I can utilize these new technologies to help people.

Tell us about your new office in Avalon. We are very excited about it. The Anderson Center for Hair Restoration and Aesthetics is not only going to be the second location for the Anderson Center, but will also be the flagship location of the American Academy of Hair Restoration Surgery.

I founded a physician’s academy for doctors that want to learn about hair restoration surgery, not just using the ARTAS® robot, but all aspects—patient selection, patient counseling, how to do the surgery, and how to run a practice. Basically, I am going to give them lessons because years ago, I learned the hard way by doing it.

What would you tell someone dealing with hair loss? I find that both men and women don’t Photos courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

want to go to the doctor because there are tons of products on the market for hair loss. However, topical products are generally not very effective. If you are struggling with hair loss and are looking for answers, you should find a provider you feel comfortable with.

Pick someone that fits your needs and that you can trust. Check out their résumé online. Make sure they can perform both the linear strip and the follicular unit extraction (FUE) methods. Honestly, there has never been a better time to have hair loss. So, call a provider and get some help.

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(L-R) Kirstin Cleghorn, Courtney Pantelis, Dr. Ken Anderson, Vicky Chastain, Lauren Lightfoot.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Facial Plastic Surgery Elizabeth Whitaker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Atlanta Face & Body Center

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ow did you become interested in your profession? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? When I went to medical school, I fell

in love with surgery. Facial anatomy, as the most complex, was the most interesting to me. Facial plastic surgery for me is a true blend of the artistic and the technical. It channels the creative aspect of my personality into what I do every day, and that’s a part of what makes me very good at what I do.

Tell us about your professional background. I received my medical degree from Duke, did my residency training at Emory, and my facial plastic surgery fellowship at Tulane. I was Chief of Facial Plastic Surgery at Medical College of Georgia before moving back to Atlanta and into private practice. Having performed over 4,000 facelifts, I am one of the most experienced facial plastic surgeons in the field. I have been selected as one of the country’s Top Plastic Surgeons by my peers, which is a great honor.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? I was surprised by how significant of an

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? My fellowship director was a Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

major influence. I was very lucky to train in New Orleans at Tulane University with Dr. Calvin Johnson. He is an internationally known facial plastic surgeon and one of the best technicians I’ve ever seen.

Locally, I was fortunate enough to work very closely with Dr. William Silver. I would visit his office when I was a resident at Emory. He helped me a lot professionally early in my career. It’s wonderful to have those relationships.

What is your business philosophy? My biggest focus, and one of the things I think is most important, is that results look

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Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

emotional impact a procedure can have. You’re trained to focus heavily on the physical change—getting the right placement, the right pull, and all of that. But, it’s not just about how somebody looks. It is very related to how they feel.

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natural. I believe the best facial plastic surgery shouldn’t advertise itself. You should walk into a room and have everyone say, “How do they continue to look so great?” and not, “Oh, they had something done.” That naturalness is what I’m always striving for.

How do you stay on top of cutting-edge trends in your industry? I spend a lot of time keeping up with journals specific to my profession. Once or twice a year I go to meetings such as the Vegas Cosmetic Surgery, State of the Art in Facial Rejuvenation, or American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery. Some of my favorite meetings involve multiple specialties. I love hearing from surgeons in other specialties and getting the perspective of someone in a different field. I’ll think to myself, “That’s actually a good idea. I’m going to incorporate that.” You want to bring back techniques and information that are going to help patients and enhance their results.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

What do you love most about your work? In an elective field like mine, I have the time to talk to someone to get to know them and understand what their personal motivations are. That is why most of us are in medicine in the first place—because we like caring for people. Also, as a surgeon, there is the immediate gratification of seeing the physical changes. But, what I really love about what I do is seeing the ongoing positive emotional impact.

What are some of your ultimate goals in doing this work? What’s so gratifying to me is seeing the difference you’ve made in how someone feels about themselves and how that translates into making their life better.

Are there specific success stories you can share with us? One face-lift patient brought in a picture Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

from when she was in her 30s. She was so happy. She said, “I have my jawline back! I have my 30-year-old jawline back!” It was pretty amazing that she felt that degree of transformation.

What is a common misconception about your profession? People may think they should go see a plastic surgeon only if they want to have a surgical procedure. I would like people to think about it as going to see someone that has the whole toolbox at their disposal— from injectables to noninvasive to surgical. If something in the toolbox isn’t the best fit for you, I’m going to be able to offer you something from that toolbox that is. bestselfatlanta.com

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Patient Testimonial

“I can look in the mirror today and say that I am glad to be out and about with confidence. I don’t feel old anymore. I am very active in many organizations and activities. My face now matches that attitude!” —VJ

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Media/Community Ambassador Tom Sullivan

TV Host and Corporate Emcee

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ow did you become interested in your profession? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? I’ve always loved radio starting

with the “Gary McKee Morning Show.” Gary was my inspiration. My big break came when the same radio station, WQXI, hired me right out of high school to be their station mascot, The Quixie Quacker. I wore webbed feet for 11 years.

Duck by day, DJ by night! I worked my way up from overnights on WQXI-AM to full-time and then transitioned over to WQXI-FM (94Q). I made my way to WSTR-FM (Star 94.1), where I eventually became a full-time member of the “Steve & Vikki Morning Show.”

Tell us about your professional background. Thirty years in radio and my gift of adlib helped me easily transition to TV. I also continue my work as a corporate host and emcee (tomonair.com) and growing my love of photography with local professional Scott Reeves.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? When I started in radio, I was surprised

Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

In TV, I was surprised to learn how stressful it can be. Unlike radio, you are always on and have to adjust to that fact, which requires more energy. You have to balance producers talking in your ear while you’re interviewing guests, looking at the right camera, and dealing with a tighter time clock. In radio, you could drop a song or go a few extra minutes, but TV has a network programming clock built in and timing down to the second. Plus, in radio, I could wear anything and no one listening was the wiser.

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? I am grateful to Kelly McCoy for mentoring me in radio. I grew up loving Rick Dees and Casey Kasem. Rick was entertaining and filled with personality. Casey was the master of the countdown.

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Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

by the fact that there was more work to do off the air. It led to a typical eight-hour workday.

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Photo courtesy of Social FotoFly.

Photo courtesy of Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

In television, it was David Letterman. His fun, engaging personality mirrored my own. I appreciated that he wasn’t afraid to knock the very network that hired him. He would always say what others wouldn’t and I loved that.

When I am hosting a corporate or charity event, it’s connecting with people and engaging them with my personality.

As I grew in radio, I began to show others my craft. In 1992, I received a phone call from a young man attending Dunwoody High School. He told me he did the morning announcements and wanted to learn more about pop culture, see the Star 94.1 station, and learn about radio. I invited him up one Saturday afternoon. We quickly became friends and I began training him in all aspects of radio.

Months later on Labor Day weekend, I had been working a long day and called him and said, “Buddy, you want to go on the air for me tonight?” He did. Thus began his amazing radio and TV career. His name? Ryan Seacrest! Oh, the days where he used to get my pizzas!

meeting new people, exploring the world, and taking care of my body are my biggest motivators.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

What do you love most about your work? Every day is different. On “Atlanta & Company,” the stories I share with our audience and the games we play are always changing. Some of my favorite moments are when I’m interacting with Christine Pullara and Cara Kneer. bestselfatlanta.com

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What keeps you motivated? Life, new opportunities,

What are some of your ultimate goals in doing this work? I would love to host a TV show that empowers others. I love giving. The feeling is so incredible. I call it joy rising.

What do you want to be known for? I want to be known for being myself and making a difference in the life of someone else every day.

Who helps you become your best self? First and most importantly, God helps me be my best inside and out.

The Nouveau Clinic takes care of my face. The Functional Health Institute of Atlanta keeps me healthy. Scott Cameron at Buckhead Elite Training Studio keeps me fit. Cryo Elite Therapy, which involves standing in a nitrogen-filled tank with below zero temperatures, makes me feel great. And Dr. Angie of Esthetic Dental Solutions is on my smile team.

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2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Hair and Makeup Nyssa Green

Founder The Green Room Agency

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ow did you become interested in your profession? What originally inspired you to pursue this field? I started out as an award-

winning hairstylist. Makeup was a natural progression for me. I’ve loved all things beauty since I was a kid. Thank goodness my parents were supportive because I played with dolls for way too long!

Tell us about your professional background. I went to vocational school while I was in high school. I was determined to have enough hours to go straight to the Georgia Professional Licensing Board and take the exam to get my professional cosmetology license, which I did. Then, I went to Auburn University for two years. I was doing more hair than going to class! I ended up going home and opening a salon.

Once I decided to move on to bigger and better things, I chose Atlanta because I wanted to be close to my parents.

What were you surprised to learn about your work once you got into it? I was surprised to learn how unglamorous this industry is. There’s so much that goes on behind the scenes that’s not glamorous at all.

Photos courtesy of XXXXXXXXX (XXXX).

mentors is Gwynnis Mosby. She taught me all the basics of makeup and set etiquette. She continues to guide and mentor me. She now has a makeup school, Gwynnis Mosby Makeup Academy, where my first Emmy Award is displayed. My other mentor is Taffi Dollar. She’s one of my pastors and an amazing woman and wife. Both Taffi and Gwynnis are invaluable to my success.

What is your business philosophy? Everyone is beautiful. Everyone gets the celebrity treatment. We always work in the spirit of excellence.

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Photo courtesy of Sara Hanna Photography.

Who are your professional/personal mentors and what have they taught you? One of my professional

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What’s the most satisfying part of your job? What do you love most about your work? I love meeting new people. I love showing people the true power of makeup.

What keeps you motivated? The industry keeps me motivated. In this industry, you must stay current and relevant or you will not work.

How do you stay on top of the cutting-edge trends in your industry? We stay on top of trends through research, social media, industry journals, and classes.

What are some of your ultimate goals in doing hair and makeup? We want to help people update their look, boost their selfesteem, become their best selves, and be made aware of what makeup can do for them.

Out of all of the other people in your field, why should people turn to you? What makes you and your business unique?

Photos courtesy of The Green Room Agency (top); CatMax Photography (bottom).

Photo courtesy of Sara Hanna Photography.

2017 OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

People turn to me for the personalized service I provide. I am also known for my top makeup skills and diversity. I can do makeup on anyone and not all artists can confidently say that. I do not believe in segregated artistry. You should be able to do makeup on everyone.

Before & Afters

What do you want to be known for? I want people to know me for my diversity, creativity, and ability to create great makeup looks.

What types of events does The Green Agency provide hair and makeup services for? We do proms, cotillions, and weddings year round. We also do celebrities, TV, and entertainers.

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Day to Night Transformation Nyssa transformed Brooke Hasluck’s look by creating a defined smoky eye that would complement her coral lip color.

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A Passion for Puppeteering: Jeff Domke Brings a Unique Experience to Children and Teens with Type 1 Diabetes at Camp Kudzu

Known as the “Puppet Dude,” this year will be Domke’s 15th summer creating special moments, such as the one above, with Camp Kudzu attendees. The nonprofit camp is dedicated to providing children and teenagers with Type 1 diabetes a camp experience that caters to their health needs. Their weeklong camps are filled with adventurous activities such as archery, fishing, kayaking, zip lining and more.

Domke, who is a professional puppeteer and education program coordinator at the Center for Puppetry Arts, initially got involved with Camp Kudzu after the Center for Puppetry Arts received a grant to do puppet education at special needs camps.

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the experience it provides children. After losing the initial grant that brought him to Camp Kudzu, he continued to volunteer freely each summer. Now, a private donor funds Domke’s visits to the camp.

This summer, he will bring his professional puppeteer skills to Camp Kudzu’s third (July 9-14) and fourth (July 30-August 5) camp sessions.

While there, he will lead puppet-building workshops, puppet shows, use puppets to teach children about cultures from around the world, and host the annual talent show with the help of his co-host, Woodrow.

Domke assures that you don’t have to be a master puppeteer to bring joy to kids at Camp Kudzu, all you need is your time and dedication. As a nonprofit with a small yearlong professional staff, over 400 volunteers are needed each summer to make Camp Kudzu a wonderful place to learn and play. The staff will teach you everything you need to know to be a great volunteer. Plus, no prior knowledge of diabetes is required.

Want to volunteer and support puppetry throughout the year? Domke encourages people to volunteer as a docent at the Center for Puppetry Arts, or simply support the center with your admission to their amazing exhibits and shows.

Details: campkudzu.org, puppet.org

Photo courtesy of Jeff Domke.

One summer, Morgan, a Camp Kudzu camper, asked the puppet, Woodrow Weasel to be her date to the end-of-summer dance. Woodrow gladly obliged, but the day of the dance, due to complications from her Type 1 diabetes, Morgan had to stay in the infirmary. Woodrow overheard the news and decided to surprise his date at the infirmary.

The 9-year-old girl was overjoyed and the moment was so magical that it’s hard to remember the man behind it, Jeff Domke, was even there.

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ballr

Photo courtesy of Jeff Domke.

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give-back guide

Featured events For more events, visit bestselfatlanta.com

-BACK IVE

June 10 11TH ANNUAL ROCK THE CURE Belt out tunes with Journey tribute band, Departure, at the Georgia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s annual event at SweetWater Brewery. jdrfrockthecure.org

June 11 THE PEOPLE’S PLAYGROUND LAWN RANGERS Now through October, Grant Park Conservancy volunteers will participate in trash removal, lawn mowing, and weed control in an effort to keep the park beautiful and clean. handsonatlanta.org

June 12 PITCH IN FOR PIEDMONT PARK Become a part of the Green Team and help to clean up Piedmont Park.

Beautification efforts are ongoing

and volunteers are always needed. piedmontpark.org

June 14 GRACE COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRY Help unpack and sort donated items and stock and organize shelves. Here, volunteers are encouraged to learn more about ending hunger in Atlanta. handsonatlanta.org

June 24

the world’s largest 10K. Volunteers will help set up, clean up, and hand out water to runners. atlantatrackclub.org

BLUEPRINT, BLUE JEANS & BBQ At Habitat for Humanity DeKalb’s annual volunteer recognition event, there will be dinner, dancing, a raffle, and beer from Three Taverns. Tickets are $50 and proceeds from the event will go toward the organization’s many upcoming projects. dekalbhabitat.org

July 2

June 17

KASHI ATLANTA KIDS ART PROGRAM

GREEN GARDEN WEEKEND The Wylde Center encourages love for the environment while creating greenspaces throughout the community.

Volunteers can get their hands dirty at the Edgewood Community Learning Garden and participate in seasonal activities. wyldecenter.org

July 15 FREEDOM FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday, volunteers are needed to help set up and take down the farmers market, which partners with the BeltLine to bring locally sourced food to the community. freedomfarmersmkt.com

July 15

Visit Egleston hospital and assist children in making arts and crafts.

Volunteers must be at least 18 or older and be in good health to attend. kashiatlanta.org

July 4 AJC PEACHTREE ROAD RACE Cheer on over 60,000 runners at

SERVING SENIORS AT A.G. RHODES HEALTH & REHAB WESLEY WOODS Get social and volunteer to assist seniors in playing Bingo and making arts and crafts. Taking time to have a conversation with an elderly person can brighten his or her day. agrhodes.org

Look for this icon to find out where you can volunteer.

JEJU SAUNA

3555 GWINNETT PLACE DRIVE, DULUTH, GA 30096

678.336.7414 | Across from Wild Bills Visit www.jejusauna. com for more information and more photos of our facility

• Meditate on Heated Jade Floors • Breathe in Gem Stone Steam Saunas • Bask in Dry Saunas (Salt, Clay, Jade, Charcoal) • Swim in the Jade Marble Jr. Olympic Size Pool • Soak in the Jade Marble Hot Tub • Warm & Cold Pools • Dine in the Authentic Korean Restaurant

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