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Happy Holidays!
As we embrace the joyful holiday season, there’s a palpable sense of magic in the air that brings our community together. In this holiday issue of Chamblee City Lifestyle, we celebrate the cherished traditions that make this time of year so special—from festive gatherings and twinkling lights to the joy of giving and sharing with loved ones. These moments not only enrich our lives, but also strengthen the bonds within our community, reminding us of the warmth and connection that the holidays inspire. Join us as we explore the beauty of these traditions and the magic they bring to our everyday lives.
Growing up, I loved so many things about this time of year like decorating the tree, wondering what was hiding under the wrapping paper on those gifts (and occasionally hunting through the house to see if I could find where they were hidden), and the joy of watching the numerous annual holiday specials on TV. As an adult, it’s a little different but still a time to look forward to spending time with family that I don’t see as often anymore, and celebrating the general feeling of goodwill and giving that seems to permeate everyday life.
As we reflect on the spirit of giving, let us remember that each small act of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity in our community. This holiday season, I encourage you to find ways to help others whether through volunteering your time, supporting local charities, or simply reaching out to a neighbor in need. This time of year can be just as tough for some as it is joyful for others. Together, we can cultivate an atmosphere of compassion and support that enriches the lives of everyone in our wonderful city of Chamblee.
Thank you for being a vital part of our community, and may this season inspire you to spread joy and kindness far and wide.
KEVIN PARKER, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Kevin Parker | kevin.parker@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tana Poncsak | tana.poncsak@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Janet Howard | janet.howard@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Polina Williams | polina.williams@citylifestyle.com
Ingrid Preda | ingrid.preda@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Winter Wonderland
Assistance League of Atlanta
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Art on display at the New Horizons Art Market. 2: Blacklight magic at the SPS Productions’s Sip N Paint event at The Keswick. 3: Artsy fun with a blacklight at the SPS Productions’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” Sip N Paint. 4: Patrons attend the grand reopening of Galas Pizza. 5: Atlanta United Watch Party brings fans to Plaza Fiesta. 6: Residents gather for the Hillcrest Block Party. 7: It was a good day to be at the New Horizons Art Market.
POLINA WILLIAMS
POLINA WILLIAMS POLINA WILLIAMS
POLINA WILLIAMS
KEVIN PARKER
KEVIN PARKER CITY OF CHAMBLEE
8: The Blessing of the Animals at Church of the Incarnation. 9: Nothing but sunny skies at the Huntley Hills Block Party. 10: Yappy Hour at the new CityVet Clinic. 11: SMILE at the camera. It’s Yappy Hour at CityVet Clinic. 12: Day of the Dead altar in the lobby of Chamblee City Hall. 13: Chamblee Mayor Brian Mock speaks at the St. Vincent de Paul Georgia Block Party. 14: Time to celebrate at the anniversary party at Vanity Nails.
KEVIN PARKER
KEVIN PARKER
KEVIN PARKER
KEVIN PARKER
CITY OF CHAMBLEE
VIVIAN
CITY OF CHAMBLEE
Total Practice Yoga
Welcome to Total Practice Yoga, a dedicated space for facilitating the connection between mind and body to promote holistic healing and overall well-being. Our studio offers small group classes, private sessions, and specialized yoga series tailored to meet individual needs. Additionally, we host community events that foster connection and support. Join us in your journey toward wellness and experience the transformative power of yoga.
Block & Drum
Are you ready for your new go-to spot? Block & Drum’s Vinyl Listening Room is now open, serving up craft cocktails and live music featuring spirits distilled at their very own onsite micro distillery! Current hours are 6:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Parking is available behind Nathan’s Driving School.
Kaspar & White CPA, PC
Plan ahead with a free 2023 tax return review. During a 30 minute call or meeting, they'll review your 2023 return, discuss actions you can take by the end of 2024 to reduce next year’s taxes, and plan for changes you can make in 2025 to start the year out financially strong. As a business owner or an individual, they’ll work with you to ensure your finances are on the right track!
Photography by Block & Drum
Photography by Kaspar & White CPA, PC
Photography by Total Practice Yoga
Winter
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH SOME FAMILY-FRIENDLY WINTERTIME FUN!
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY ATLANTIC STATION, LAKE LANIER ISLANDS, STONE MOUNTAIN PARK
Holiday fun at nearby Atlantic Station. Photo credit - Atlantic Station
ATLANTIC STATION
Atlantic Station welcomes the holidays with a celebration that features sparkling lights and winter fun! Tis the season and time for Skate the Station! If you’re going out for a night on the ice, checkout the exciting lineup of theme nights. For more information and tickets, visit atlanticstation.com.
LAKE LANIER ISLANDS
Head to Lake Lanier Islands for snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides and Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular - a walking holiday light show set to music. In addition, guests can enjoy holiday crafts, a special Breakfast with Santa on specified days and more. For more information and tickets, visit lanierislands.com.
STONE MOUNTAIN PARK
Stop by Stone Mountain Park for Flight to the North Pole and Stone Mountain Christmas! with more than 2 million LED lights and a Christmas drone and light show to get you and your family in the holiday spirit. A holiday celebration filled with festive music, dazzling lights and much more! For more information and tickets, visit stonemountainpark.com
Photo Credit: Atlantic Station
Photo Credit: Lake Lanier Islands
Photo Credit: Stone Mountain Park
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF ATLANTA
ATTIC TREASURES THRIFT SHOP IN CHAMBLEE GENERATES FUNDS FOR PROGRAMS TO PROVIDE FOR THOSE IN NEED
Sitting prominently in downtown Chamblee is a little shop called Attic Treasures Thrift Shop ran by the Assistance League of Atlanta. Ellen Frank, who has been a member of the organization for nine years, is president of the Atlanta chapter. She explains that the thrift shop in Chamblee is a main source of revenue for the organization.
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
“It generates quite a lot of money even though it’s only open 24 hours a week,” she says. The other main source of money comes by way of an Annual Charity Golf Tournament held at the Bear’s Best Golf Course in Suwanee, Ga., that's held in October. Money raised from the thrift shop in Chamblee and the golf tournament go to fund the various programs offered by the organization.
Started in California, the Assistance League has chapters throughout the United States. The Atlanta Chapter has no paid employees and currently has about 290 members. The main philanthropic center is located in Peachtree Corners.
Ellen says when she retired, she wanted to volunteer, and after trying a few organizations, she said the Assistance League of Atlanta was a perfect fit. “It gives members a lot of flexibility,” she says. “You’re not tied to a set schedule, and there are a lot of opportunities. I found that really exciting and interesting.”
The opportunities include the many programs the organization offers that help the people specifically in the communities they serve. The organization’s signature program that started in California and is required for each chapter - Operation School Bell. Ellen says through this program, they provide
Products on display at the thrift shop in Chamblee.
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF ATLANTA IS A 100% VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION.
a week’s worth of brand-new clothes and more for school-aged children. Ellen says the Atlanta Chapter provides clothing and a book for thousands of children each year in area schools.
In addition to the signature program, each chapter has programs that provide for their community’s unique needs. Those programs include Backpack Buddies that provides food to young students, Bears for Children to provide comfort for children who are facing a crisis or hospital stay, and so much more. The Assistance League of Atlanta also works with other organizations such as Mary Hall Freedom
Village in Sandy Springs and the DeKalb County Police Department to further their reach to those in need.
Ellen says the funds from the shop in Chamblee goes toward a number of different programs and she says they have a good following with an email list of about 6,000. “I find it fascinating because people come to the shop from all over,” she says, adding that on Tuesdays is when new merchandise comes in and they often have people waiting at the door for the shop to open.
The Assistance League of Atlanta is a 100% volunteer organization. For those looking to volunteer and think the
Assistance League of Atlanta may be the right fit, Ellen says the best way to learn more about the organization is to contact the Atlanta office or visit the website. There is a membership fee, an orientation and training. “Once you become a member, then you can work in the shop or any of the programs,” she said. There are lots of opportunities for leadership and for people to use their special skills to help. For example, teachers tend to work with the books because they know from experience which books children tend to like and need depending on their age. “It’s fascinating to watch everybody doing different things,” she says. And volunteering isn’t just for ladies. Ellen says men can help out as well in areas like technology, deliveries and more.
For information about the Assistance League of Atlanta, the Attic Treasures Thrift Shop, volunteer opportunities, and more, visit assistanceleague.org/Atlanta/
The Assistance League of Atlanta is a member driven organization with 100% volunteers.
FOR EVENT DECOR THAT POPS!
Elevate your events with Balloonacy’s enchanting decor services, tailored to infuse festive spirit into every occasion. For private or corporate holiday parties, our expert team designs stylish decor that transforms the venue into a magical setting, creating the perfect ambience for celebrations of all kinds!
DIY HOLIDAY GIFTING
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEANN PARKER
Cookie Mix
DIY Jar gifts are a thoughtful way to share holiday cheer this season. These particular jar gifts require JUST ADD WATER as instructions for an easy homemade gift that anyone would love to receive.
Hot Cocoa
COOKIE MIX JAR
• store bought cookie mix (labeled add water only). Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased).
HOT COCOA JAR
• hot cocoa mix
• chocolate chips
• mini marshmallows
Instructions: over stove top, bring water (or milk) to a simmer. Add cocoa mix and stir until chocolate chips have melted. Top with marshmallows. Enjoy!
BREAKFAST JAR
• pancake mix
• maple syrup
Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased). Top with warmed maple syrup.
POTPOURRI JAR
• pine cones
• dried or fresh greens
• dried citrus
• cinnamon sticks
• star anise
• whole cloves
Add instructions to place contents into a pot on the stove with 8 cups of water. Simmer low for a wonderful holiday aroma.
CANDLE JAR
• Floating candle
• Greens
• Dried citrus and berries
Add water to the jar and light candle to enjoy on a dark winter night.
LeAnn can’t wait to see what you create and give to your family and friends. Tag her on IG @silvertoothhome and #silvertoothhome so she can share. Happy Holidays!
Breakfast Jar
Potpourri Jar
Candle Jar
After ‘A Taste’
Did you get ‘A Taste of Chamblee?’
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JANET HOWARD
Chamblee residents and event goers walked the crowded streets of Chamblee to try new foods and learn about new vendors at A Taste of Chamblee. The food was fabulous. The crafts were unique. The kids had activities to keep them entertained. The Navigate Program brought a fast, tasty, and fun food competition. We all had a chance to watch some football and take a rest at the Wind Down Tent. We listened to live music, and enjoyed beverages. Saw friends and neighbors. And we all got A Taste of Chamblee. Here are some images that captured the food, fun, and memories. And here’s to looking forward to next year and A Taste of Chamblee! Cheers!
Vendors take part in 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
Fun in the Kid's Zone at 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
Crowds stroll the streets at 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
of a masterpiece takes time.
Future chefs from the Navigate Program compete in a competition at 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
There was more than just food as local vendors took part in 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
Making
Fun on the lawn
A delicious dish at 'A Taste of Chamblee.'
events
THROUGH DECEMBER 24TH
A Christmas Carol
Alliance Theatre on the Coca-Cola Stage | 2:00 PM
The Alliance Theatre's production of the Dickens classic, "A Christmas Carol," returns to the Coca-Cola Stage until Dec. 24. Take a trip back in time to visit Tiny Tim and his family as they celebrate the season and bring this classic holiday tradition to life. For show times and tickets, visit my.alliancetheatre.org.
The Fernbank Museum celebrates the holidays with a Winter Wonderland: Celebrations and Traditions Around the World. More than 30 countries are represented in this unique celebration. Along with unique cultural pieces, guests will see holiday staples and artistic traditional displays, and more. For more information, visit fernbankmuseum.org.
DECEMBER 1ST
Illuminights: A Lantern Festival Presented by Georgia Power
During the month of December celebrate the wonders of nature by the light of glowing lanterns during the holidays at Zoo Atlanta! It's a mile-long stroll full of fun and a great way to make holiday memories. For more information and tickets, go to zooatlanta.org
DECEMBER 3RD
Chamblee Rail Trail 5k
The race starts at Chamblee City Hall | 8:00 AM
The race begins at 8:30 a.m., with check-in starting at 8 a.m. The route goes from Peachtree Road to the Rail Trail near the Clairmont Road Bridge and ends at Chamblee City Hall. Proceeds go to Care Atlanta Inc. to help fight food insecurity. The race date is estimated, so check the website. To register and learn more, visit raceentry.com.
DECEMBER 6TH
Chamblee Holiday Hoopla Festival
City of Chamblee | 5:00 PM
Join the city of Chamblee and ring in the holidays with the Chamblee Holiday Hoopla starting on Dec. 6. For a full list of events, dates and times, visit chambleeholidayhoopla.net
DECEMBER 7TH
Annual Holiday Party and Art Walk
Urban Art Collective in Chamblee | 11:00 AM
Stop by for some holiday shopping or browse through beautiful artwork and meet the artists! The Urban Art Collective Annual Holiday Party and Art Walk is a two day event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 7 and 8. For more information, visit urbanartcollective5655.com.
