Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
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Hello friends,
April showers bring May flowers, so promised my mom.
If I look back at my Lifestyle Letters from the past 13 Aprils, I would bet that I included this quote every time. It’s quintessential Emily. Always looking on the bright side and rhyming or singing her way through a rain shower.
Yes, we are celebrating 13 years of BuckHaven City Lifestyle magazine! That’s more than 5,600 pages of local stories and businesses that support our community and profiles on your engaging neighbors. Our founder and publisher Jim Newman has joyfully made a significant investment in BuckHaven and as editor, I’m proud to have been along for the ride since day one.
To celebrate, we’re filling this issue with stories about others around you who believe in the power of investing.
The members at Trinity Presbyterian Church have invested in Atlanta's newest youth choir, Kanjani, by hosting their concerts, the second of which is Sunday, April 27 at 3pm at Trinity.
At Alex Lexington Diamonds, the owners have curated a collection of collectibles - jewelry and more. Don't you love the stunning piece on our cover?
Liveable Buckhead invests in our community at every turn. Read their latest news on page 26.
Enjoy this issue and please let me know what you think!
All my best,
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @BUCKHAVENCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksandar Kapetanovic
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Elissa Rosen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Katie Cooper
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
1:
4:
city scene
At the Buckhead Coalition annual luncheon: Jonathan Rodbell, Councilmember Mary Norwood, Eric Tanenblatt 2: Kathy Waller, Linda Klein, Rep. Betsy Holland 3: Marci Overstreet, Fulton Co. Commissioner Chairman Robb Pitts, Councilmember Andrea Boone, Debra Wathen
Claudia Bilotto, Marci Overstreet, Jim Durrett, Katie Kirkpatrick, Sen. Sonya Halpern 5: AJ Robinson, Gary Jackson 6: Dan Knopp, Leona Barr-Davenport, Kristi Cotton Morris, Jim Sprouse 7: Councilmember Alex Wan, Jennifer Ide
Celebrating Excellence: Georgia Luxury Pools
Join us in congratulating Georgia Luxury Pools (GLP) for their outstanding achievement at the prestigious Southeast Pool and Hot Tub Awards. Known for their innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship, GLP continues to set the standard in luxury pool installations and renovations. This recognition reaffirms their commitment to excellence in every project. Envision your dream pool with the industry leaders. David has earned his CPB and Advanced CBP certification through the National PHTA organization.
Destin Wine Time
For those who appreciate fine dining and exquisite wines, the Destin Wine and Food Festival is a must-attend event. Held in HarborWalk Village April 11-13, this festival showcases gourmet food from top local chefs and a selection of wines from renowned vineyards. Attend seminars, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive tastings while enjoying the beautiful backdrop of Destin’s waterfront.
Tamara Bazzle Honored
This year's Bob Helget Volunteer award recipient was Tamara Bazzle. As the Historic Cemeteries Chair for Buckhead Heritage, Tamara actively engages with all the cemeteries under our care. She ensures that Harmony Grove and Mount Olive are properly maintained and organizes public cleanup efforts. She regularly checks with the office to identify cemeteries that require attention and organizes cleanups and headstone cleanings on a consistent basis.
SONGS OF HOPE
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE COOPER
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LIFTS UP KANJANI, ATLANTA'S NEW YOUTH CHOIR
When Dr. B.E. Boykin founded Atlanta’s newest youth choir last year, Kanjani, she dreamed of empowering young artists to share their voices and stories through song. Committed to the artists’ well-being, growth and artistry, she is sowing the seeds of creativity, confidence, and compassion through song and performance.
“These seeds have the power to make the world a better place,” says Dr. Boykin, Assistant Professor of Music at Georgia Tech.
Kanjani is a diverse youth choir comprised of some of Atlanta’s most talented young artists. Their debut concert was in the chapel at Trinity Presbyterian Church, where Dr. Boykin is currently the Assistant Director of Informal Worship. “This performance wouldn’t have been possible without the support from Maestro Norman Mackenzie, as well as the pastoral leadership
- Revs. Rebekah LeMon, Lucy Strong, and Emily Beaver,” says Dr. Boykin. “But I’d also like to thank the greater Atlanta community, for their overwhelming support, wellwishes, and excitement behind Kanjani.”
A Spring Concert will take place at The Chapel at Trinity Presbyterian at 3:00 p.m on April 27.
The 32 choral members come from schools all over Atlanta, and have one thing in common: a deep desire to develop their voices, perform with a supportive community, and bring joy through song.
“Through music, we create a safe, inclusive space where youth can explore their identities, cultivate mindfulness, and be equipped with the tools to turn their potential into purpose,” says Dr. Boykin.
Follow these talented young musicians on Facebook and Instagram @Kanjani.
Feel The Light
RestFuel is Atlanta’s only wellness boutique offering a curated fusion of advanced relaxation and healing treatments - all designed to elevate your well-being beyond traditional spa experiences.
Founded by Atlanta Wellness Concierge, Shay Richardson, RestFuel takes a cutting-edge, results-driven approach to self-care and recovery. They are the only wellness boutique in Atlanta offering Halotherapy (Dry Salt Therapy) alongside a selection of state-of-the-art wellness treatments. Unlike other spas, they also offer back-to-back therapies in one seamless location, maximizing convenience and effectiveness.
At RestFuel, every treatment is a client favoriteeach designed to deliver powerful wellness benefits and a next-level experience. Popular treatments include: Whole-Body Red Light for skin rejuvenation,
ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN
muscle recovery, and overall cellular health; RestFuel Salt Room with Red Light, the only Halotherapy plus Red Light experience in the city, combining deep respiratory benefits with advanced skin and wellness support; HaloSauna with Red Light, a client-favorite upgrade from a standard sauna, offering a powerful combination of infrared heat, dry salt therapy, and red light for a deep detox, relaxation, and immune boost; Evenly Distributed Cryotherapy, unlike other cryotherapy treatments in Atlanta, the RestFuel chamber delivers evenly distributed cold air, ensuring superior muscle recovery, inflammation reduction, and energy enhancement; and Ballancer Pro Lymphatic Massage, the newest addition, and already a game-changer in detox, circulation, and recovery. This advanced therapy is far superior to standard compression treatments. Find your wellbeing. 3158
STAFF
INVEST OR INDULGE AT ALEX LEXINGTON
ARTICLE BY ELISSA ROSEN
OR BETTER YET, DO BOTH
Alex Lexington is a trusted name in precious metals and custom jewelry, known for its reliability and personalized service. Founded by husband-and-wife team Andre and Danielle Osborne, the business has quickly become a leading destination for investors and enthusiasts aiming to make smart investment choices.
Andre and Danielle’s journey began with a wildly successful gold-buying store in Midtown Atlanta. Recognizing the evolving market needs, they rebranded and moved their business to Chamblee, transforming it into a refined resource for those looking to invest and indulge.
Their dedication to personalized customer service is at the heart of Alex Lexington’s success. Each client’s needs and goals are meticulously understood and catered to, ensuring that their investments are safe and rewarding.
Basically, they are your best friends, your family, your go-to with any precious metal and jewelry needs. And they are more than willing to share their insight either on the phone or in person.
The location is also a draw for many of their clients. They have easy access parking, a private and nondescript storefront, and even a private back door entrance for those who prefer that level of privacy.
Andre Osborne runs the business’s metal buying and selling side, offering clients a personalized approach to their wants and needs. His deep knowledge of coins, gold, and silver bullion makes him a trusted advisor for novice and seasoned investors.
Andre explains that precious metals are viewed as stable stores of value, making them an attractive choice for diversifying investment portfolios.
Every client’s needs and goals are carefully understood and addressed, ensuring their investments are secure and fruitful.
“Our clients pick my brain; it’s part of the ‘club membership.’ Once you are a member, you get access for life,” he shares.
While he may not always compete with online prices, Andre offers personalized service that prioritizes each client’s needs and goals, setting Alex Lexington apart in the marketplace. Andre’s approach extends beyond transactions.
“There is no rush. This is not a get-rich-quick scheme. If that’s what you want, this is not the place. Our clients are doing this long-term for themselves and their children,” he emphasizes.
Andre says that while many of his clients are people looking to buy and sell coins and bullion for a long-term strategy, there are several people who are looking to liquidate an estate or family coins and jewelry.
“Sometimes people come in with a large piece of jewelry and silverware they have been lugging around,” he says. “We can offer them money, but we also offer them a chance to preserve and build on their family’s wealth by turning the items into coins and bullions.”
One customer heeds Andre’s advice about constantly investing. That customer happens to be a 12-year-old boy who saved his Robux money and would come in each month to acquire a new coin. While he typically doesn’t do lower dollar amounts, Andre knew the boy understood the concept of long-term investment and he admired his desire to build his wealth at such a young age. It’s all part of their belief in generational wealth.
On the other side of the spectrum, Danielle brings a touch of indulgence and personal history to A’Lex Diamonds. Raised in the industry and growing up in the diamond district watching her father, Easton Dawkins, who has an impeccable eye for diamonds, Danielle has turned her heritage into a business of investing in modern indulgences. She oversees the jewelry division, crafting custom pieces, repurposing heirlooms, and making sure her clients’ needs and expectations are not only met but exceeded. Danielle specializes in understanding her clients’ desires, stating, “My goal is to get inside their head and find the style that they don’t know they want.”
She also notes that many of her clients come in with older jewelry that they don’t wear or a family piece they have been saving.
“Last week we had a woman come in and take a ring from her grandmother and we designed a new and modern version for her and her daughter.”
But Danielle is clear that her side of the business is not about building wealth, but more so about showing it. “Jewelry is an indulgence. It’s a feeling,” she says. “When you are creating a beautiful custom piece of jewelry, you are investing in that feeling.”
The story of Alex Lexington, just like their day-to-day business, is deeply rooted in family and tradition. For Danielle, it is a journey that has come full circle. What began in the bustling streets of the diamond district has now evolved into a thriving business that she runs with her husband, Andre. They have built Alex Lexington on trust, expertise, and a keen understanding of market dynamics.
And the next generation is already showing some interest. “Our daughter Madison is obsessed with bling,” Danielle says. “We are starting her out with sterling silver.”
3335 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta
404.815.8893
AlexLexington.com
Investing in community
The Lasting Impact of Livable Buckhead
Buckhead isn’t just a place; it’s a dynamic, thriving community where people live, work and play. But a truly vibrant community doesn’t just happen; it takes strategic investment in the right initiatives. That’s where Livable Buckhead comes in. By working with us, businesses and individuals are making an investment that pays dividends for the entire community: enhancing sustainability, connectivity and quality of life.
A SMART INVESTMENT IN
BUCKHEAD’S
FUTURE
Our work goes beyond improving infrastructure: we’re creating long-term value for everyone who calls Buckhead home. When businesses partner with Livable Buckhead, they aren’t just giving back; they’re strengthening the community that supports them. When residents get involved, they’re shaping the neighborhood they want to live in.
A well-planned, connected community fosters economic growth, attracts talent and enhances the overall experience of living and working in Buckhead. Investing in sustainability, green space and community programs creates a ripple effect, leading to safer streets, increased property values and a higher quality of life for all.
YOUR EFFORTS, YOUR IMPACT
Each year, the power of community comes to life at the Maxine Rock Annual Day of Service, an inspiring event where residents and corporate teams roll up their sleeves to enhance public spaces along PATH400. Named in honor
ARTICLE BY DENISE STARLING
of the late Maxine Rock, a passionate advocate for environmental stewardship and civic engagement, this day celebrates her legacy by turning vision into action. Volunteers remove debris from the pond along PATH400 and collect trash from the surrounding area, helping to keep waterways clean and supporting native wildlife and ecosystems. These efforts don’t just beautify Buckhead, they create a sense of shared ownership and pride.
There’s no better way to honor Maxine than through service. Her passion for community and sustainability inspired so many, and today, her impact lives on through each project we undertake along PATH400. Maxine’s legacy aligns perfectly with the purpose of PATH400 –a project that reflects her commitment to building stronger, more connected communities. More than just a greenway, PATH400 is an investment in community health, connectivity and engagement. It offers residents a safe and scenic way to walk, bike and enjoy nature while linking neighborhoods and business districts in a way that strengthens social and economic ties.
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT BUCKHEAD
Livable Buckhead champions sustainability, alternative transportation and waste reduction through education, advocacy and action. From supporting green building practices to leading commuter programs that ease traffic congestion, every initiative we launch makes Buckhead a more desirable and future-ready place to live and work.
One of our key initiatives is helping businesses and residents reduce their environmental footprint. By promoting sustainable building standards, energy-efficient practices and waste reduction strategies, we ensure that Buckhead remains a leader in environmental responsibility.
THE POWER OF CORPORATE & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Every investment in Livable Buckhead: whether time, resources, or expertise -- drives measurable change. Corporate sponsors play a pivotal role in sustaining our efforts, demonstrating that investing in community well-being isn’t just a social good, it’s a business advantage. Many local businesses have joined our mission, strengthening employee engagement, enhancing their reputations and fostering deeper community ties.
For residents, partnering with Livable Buckhead means having a direct hand in shaping a thriving, sustainable neighborhood. Whether through volunteering, advocating or participating in community programs, every effort creates ripples of positive impact.
When companies and individuals invest in Livable Buckhead, they contribute to a legacy of progress that benefits generations to come. The collective impact of these efforts ensures that Buckhead remains a premier destination for work, play and living well.
Whether you’re a long-time resident, a business leader or someone who simply loves this community, your involvement ensures that Buckhead remains a place of innovation, opportunity and connection.
Supporting art
ARTICLE BY CAROLINE
MADDOX | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE HIGH ALPHONSO WHITFIELD
Supporting art institutions like the High Museum of Art is a powerful way to invest in the cultural vitality of our city. Philanthropy fuels the museum’s ability to present groundbreaking exhibitions, care for its distinguished collection and create meaningful experiences with art that inspire and engage visitors of all ages.
Your investment in the High extends beyond the walls of the museum, fostering creativity and deepening cultural understanding as well as ensuring that art remains accessible to everyone in our community. From live performances and artist talks to multidisciplinary programs that celebrate diverse voices, gifts to the museum bring art to life in ways that resonate across generations.
Contributions to the High also strengthen educational initiatives that provide transformative learning experiences for students, families and lifelong learners. Philanthropy drives scholarly research, curatorial excellence and dynamic public programming, ensuring that the museum continues to serve as a beacon of artistic inspiration.
There are many ways to get involved and support the museum from annual giving and membership to fundraising events and volunteer opportunities. High Museum members receive first access to exhibition previews and educational programs, while Circles donors ($2000+) receive exclusive invitations to exhibition previews and intimate programs with museum staff that offer a look behind the scenes. For those passionate about making a leadership-level commitment, the Director’s Circle ($12,500+) provides unparalleled access to art and culture on a regional, national and international scale as well as exclusive access to exhibitions and programs at the High Museum.
Join us in shaping the future of the arts in Atlanta. Learn more about how you can support the High Museum of Art at high.org.
Caroline Maddox is the High Museum of Art’s Deputy Director of Philanthropy
2 3 4 5
TIPS 5
When using a tax return preparer, taxpayers should look for someone LOCAL. And, according to our friends at the IRS, these other considerations are tops.
1. AVAILABILITY AND CREDS:
Look for a preparer who’s available year-round in case questions come up after filing season is over. Understand the preparer’s credentials and qualifications and review their history for complaints or disciplinary actions.
2. CONSISTENT SERVICE FEES:
Ask about the preparer’s service fees. Taxpayers should avoid tax return preparers who base their fees on a percentage of the refund or who offer to deposit all or part of the refund into their own financial accounts.
3. IRS E-FILE AND DOCS:
Ensure the preparer offers IRS e-file. The IRS issues most refunds in fewer than 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit. Good preparers ask to see records and receipts when filing a return.
4. COMPLETE RETURNS AND REVIEW:
Never sign a blank or incomplete return. Taxpayers are responsible for filing a complete and correct tax return. Review their tax return before signing it and ask questions if something is not clear or appears inaccurate.
5. ACCURATE ACCOUNT INFORMATION:
Make sure any refund will go directly to the taxpayer’s bank account – not into the preparer’s bank account. Review the routing and bank account number on the completed return and make sure it’s accurate.
ON Stage
Tickets for the all-new production of the Tony Awardwinning Broadway classic, PETER PAN are on sale now for a limited one-week premiere engagement at the Fox Theatre from April 29 – May 4 as part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2024/2025 season.
Buckhead’s Bailey Frankenberg will star as Tiger Lily in the show. She moved to Atlanta from New York where she was based for nine years.
Bailey is honored to step into this revised, powerful Tiger Lily after being a Swing and the Curtain Call Croc. Bailey is Choctaw and an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. She’s an aerialist, specializes in stage violence, and loves cats. Her training includes studies at Collin College (Plano, Texas) and the CAP21 Conservatory in NYC. Her credits include 9 to 5 (Doralee), Havoc Movement’s Dracula: The Failings of Men (Lucy), The Lost Colony (Eleanor Dare), Tokyo Disney Resort (Singer) and Alvin and the Chipmunks Live! Tour (Every Female Human in the Show).
Peter Pan, a high-flying musical has been thrilling audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price and choreography by Lorin Latarro. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.” PETER PAN embraces the child in us all, so go on a journey from the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning – your entire family will be Hooked!
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