Decatur, GA December 2024 by City Lifestyle

with Studio Vocaire

Threads of Generosity

Welcome to "The Giving Issue," a December edition that captures the warmth of the season through stories of local kindness, community, and creativity. We invite you to explore the inspiring journeys within these pages, from those who dedicate themselves to helping others to businesses that infuse joy and meaning into Decatur life.

Meet Aubrey-Anna, a spirited young creative working with Jennifer McCaskill of Developing Minds Therapy. Their story shows how patience, creativity, and a strong support system can help children with autism thrive. Aubrey-Anna’s journey of resilience and joy reminds us that embracing who we are, with all our uniqueness, can be life-changing.

Discover the local pioneers behind unique spirits that have delighted our community since 2014. Independent Distilling Company turned their craft into an art, collaborating with local brewers and creators to make products as bold and spirited as the people of Decatur. With every batch, they bring something truly distinct to our neighborhood.

Then, celebrate the season of giving with Empire Heating and Air’s "Empire Gives Back" campaign, which shines a light on local charities making a difference. Their commitment to fostering local impact shows the power of collective goodwill, where every vote and contribution strengthens our community's fabric.

You’ll also meet the Cool Girls of DeKalb County, who, through life skills, mentoring, and self-expression, find empowerment and belonging. Their story celebrates the transformation found in strong support networks and a shared commitment to growth.

And finally, as you search for the perfect gift, turn to our local businesses. From bespoke gift baskets by Kelly’s Market to eco-friendly candles from HomeGrown Decatur, each item supports small businesses and carries a touch of local pride. When you give locally, you’re giving back to our vibrant community.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate the spirit of giving in all its forms, cherishing the acts—big and small—that make our community special. As always, we’re very grateful to you, our readers, and our local advertising partners who help bring these pages to life.

We can’t wait to see you in 2025. Wishing you a happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year.

Warmly,

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Brooke Felder | brooke.felder@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Felder, Natalie Fox, Brandon Malcolm, Josh Cornwall

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jonathan Wade, Matt Boggs, John Wachs

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

inside the issue

Developing

city scene

1: Studio Wythe hosts Quiet Hounds at the tenth annual Porchfest! 2: The Griswold Family Christmas Vacation car makes an appearance at the Madison Avenue Derby. 3: Robert Koch of Robert Koch Designs wins adult heat at Madison Avenue Derby. 4—5: Decatur City Lifestyle hosts the Professional Women’s Collective at Rêve Orthodontics. 6: The Timothy Cox and Co. Realty Team is all smiles at the Decatur BBQ Festival. 7: The Madison Avenue Derby raises 18k for Giving Grace’s Remerge Program helping families with food insecurities.

My Panda Launches "My Panda for Business" for Employee Well-Being

My Panda announces the launch of "My Panda for Business," offering small and medium-sized businesses a competitive edge with hyper-local personal assistance benefits. Available in Metro Atlanta starting October 16, 2024, this service helps reduce employee stress and improve productivity by allowing staff to delegate everyday tasks. It's a scalable solution to enhance work-life balance and attract top talent. Learn more at www.business.mypandaapp.com

Decatur Holiday Events

Experience December holiday magic in downtown Decatur! Weekly Terrific Thursdays bring festive cheer with tree lightings, a roaring bonfire, a cozy marshmallow roast, and an outdoor screening of The Grinch. Don't miss SantaCon on Dec. 14, a fun-filled night for adults, and the community Menorah Lighting on Dec. 29. Shop local, savor seasonal treats and enjoy free family-friendly events. Visit visitdecaturga.com/holidays for more details.

The Peaceful Place's "Welcoming Winter" Series

Join The Peaceful Place for "Welcoming Winter," a three-part series in Mason Mill Park starting Saturday, December 7, 9-11 AM. With mindfulness, movement, and nature immersion, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Patrick Bryant and Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Cathy Eads guide you to embrace winter’s beauty. Discover the season as a time of reflection and wonder. For more information, visit thepeacefulplacellc.com/ welcoming-winter

Helping ALL Youth Thrive in Decatur

Developing Minds equips and empowers children with autism through reconnection, regulation, and a radiant sense of self.

Power, Purpose, and the Importance of Belonging

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE

“I’m someone who doesn’t give up,” Aubrey-Anna says confidently as she draws a portrait of what makes her, “her”: crafts, singing, her parents, her dog, and Developing Minds Therapy Co-Founder, Jennifer McCaskill. Earlier, Jennifer provided art supplies and the prompt to draw the things she loves, the things she’s good at, and the people she cares about. For the following twenty minutes or so, AubreyAnna sketches away with a singular focus and calm contentment that is admirable. They have been working together for three years now, and Aubrey-Anna’s progression from a small classroom of impacted children to a general education class is just one example of the many ways she has come into herself.

Her joyful laughter is contagious. She has developed such a strong sense of self and confidence that she finds delight in her own hijinks; from pranking her parents to receiving an extra large slushie, she charmingly entrances her audience with honest reactions and sweet foresight. The slushie is an illuminating reflection on the progress made with Jennifer. These moments are categorized as “unexpected yays”, wherein a positive unexpected moment is spotlighted to strengthen the individual’s capacity for other types of uncertainty. Most kids with autism struggle with unpredictability, and because Developing Minds’ therapeutic approach is all about the experience, these moments are intentionally created and sought after. By gradually storing an experience bank of times where uncertainty yielded a positive outcome (i.e. receiving an unexpectedly large slushie) the brain can engage with similar instances in a more productive way. The amygdala (the area of our brain storing fight, flight, and freeze survival instincts) is overactive in children with autism.

Aubrey-Anna shows off her work of art.

“Belonging is letting go of these right ways to do things so that we can really, truly create space for people with different needs.”

Their brains perceive everyday challenges as serious threats, so creating this bank of positive experiences that can be remembered and analyzed helps prevent them from jumping to survival mode when things go off course. This learning process leads to empowerment not only for the child but for their families as well.

The first stage of this technique focuses on the parent-child relationship. Autism is a different worldly experience, and consistent sensory overwhelm creates a situation where parents aren’t instinctively able to comfort their children. This technique cultivates a mindful understanding of their child’s experience, rebuilding communication and trust.

Jennifer and Developing Minds’ finely tuned approach focuses on developing “mental toughness” by teaching kids to accept and advocate for themselves. People with autism have the same needs as every human being: a need for connection, belonging, and purpose. They also have different

needs; they may need to move their bodies more, vocalize sounds, and have things be a certain way. Once they feel safer, more competent, and more connected, many symptoms go away. They “need help finding their place within themselves, within their family, and then out in their community where they can safely be who they are - which is what we all want,” Jennifer explains.

It is vital for every person to feel a sense of belonging. Isolation has a devastating impact, and we can honor these creative, empathic, and caring individuals by creating public places where they can come as they are without judgment. By supporting families impacted by autism in this way, we send the message that everyone really does belong. Developing Minds teaches kids how to embrace who they are and live joyfully outside the norm. Let’s uplift their mission by holding space, fostering friendships, and delighting in our differences.

DECATUR’S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY CONTINUES TO GROW

ARTICLE BY BRANDON MALCOLM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT BOGGS

Nestled in a converted warehouse on College Ave, Independent Distilling Company has been crafting award-winning spirits in Decatur since 2014.

“We were the first legal distillery to open inside the Perimeter since prohibition,” says founder Michael Anderson. “We started with whiskey because that’s what we like to drink, went down the rabbit hole of rum, and now we’re putting out a gin. We love to experiment.”

And experiment they do. Independent has collaborated with local producers like 3 Taverns Brewing and

Urban Tree Cidery to create unique one-off products like Bierschnaps and apple brandy in addition to their core lineup of whiskeys and rums. The Decatur community has provided the distillery with exceptional opportunities for collaboration and experimentation.

“When our neighbors have an idea to do something weird, we always say “Sure, let’s see what happens!” says bar manager and cocktail master Casey Teague. Independent’s newest release, Fowlers Gin, is a prime example of that willingness to experiment.

10 Years Later, Independent Distilling Is Still Evolving

“Gin was our Covid project. We started making hand sanitizer to give away and had a lot of neutral spirit. So we started searching to find our ideal flavor profile.” Teague explains.

The result is a botanical, citrus-forward gin that is equally delicious sipped as it is mixed in one of the distillery’s signature cocktails like the “Radish Me This”, a surprise that goes well beyond your basic martini with flavors like dill, fennel, and radish. Teague crafts all of the cocktail syrups and ingredients from scratch.

“Everything we do is intentionally unique,” says Anderson. “It’s a philosophy for us- if you’re not doing something different as a small producer, what are you bringing to the table? We want to give people the opportunity to try something new.”

Visit The Distillery

Independent Distilling Company’s taproom and distillery is open to the public for tours, tastings, and cocktails on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5-9 pm, Fridays from 5-10 pm, and Saturdays from 3-10 pm. Check out their lineup of events like trivia, pop-up restaurants, and special spirit releases at IndependentDistilling.com. Their taproom offers the perfect place for holiday gatherings and is available to rent for events.

You can find the full offering of Independent Distilling spirits, including the new Fowlers Gin, in liquor stores across Decatur and Metro Atlanta. Stock your bar and discover your new favorite holiday spirit!

THE EMPIRE GIVES BACK

ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN WACHS

EMPIRE TURNS UP THE HEAT ON GIVING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

EMPIRE GIVES BACK: SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT.

Each of the last two holiday seasons, Empire Heating and Air’s “Empire Gives Back” campaign has brought a touch of magic to local charities in Decatur. Empire’s commitment to uplifting small, impactful organizations in their service area has made a significant difference in our community. Here’s how the growing tradition has unfolded each season:

VOTING WITH PURPOSE

Behind the scenes of “Empire Gives Back” is an inclusive voting platform that allows community members to support local charities they are passionate about. With help from Online Access, Empire provides a seamless voting experience on its website where friends, family, and neighbors can rally together to vote for their favorite charity. The site’s secure structure ensures that every vote is genuine and counted fairly. Starting in October and running through early December, the campaign has already received enthusiastic support, reaching over a thousand votes within the first week! You can vote here: empirehvac.com/vote/.

THOUGHTFUL CONSIDERATION

Every year, Empire selects three charities that resonate deeply with its mission of nurturing the local community. These are not just random choices but carefully selected based on their meaningful causes, from feeding children and supporting foster youth to aiding seniors in need. Unlike larger charities with broad support, these organizations benefit greatly from local attention. Charities are often chosen from employee nominations, adding a personal touch to the campaign. This year’s lineup includes: Gift of Hope, Neighbor in Need and Lunches of Love. Learn more about them on the campaign page.

A COLLECTIVE EFFORT TO SPREAD KINDNESS

The campaign is a full-team effort at Empire. Everyone, from office staff to field technicians, shares the joy of “Empire Gives Back” with customers and community members, spreading word of the campaign as they work. This isn’t just about the donations for Empire founder and president Martin Hoover and his son Mason, who serves as the company’s CFO—it’s about amplifying each charity’s story and helping them gain invaluable exposure they might not otherwise receive. Empire promotes the campaign widely across social media and invites participating charities to do the same, creating a ripple effect that brings new supporters into the fold, ultimately multiplying the impact.

Once the campaign concludes, Empire highlights the winning charities on its website, complete with links. But the goodwill does not end there—each featured organization remains listed for future reference, encouraging longterm visibility and support.

COOL GIRLS IGNITE

ARTICLE BY BROOKE FELDER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COOL GIRLS INC.

Meet the organization creating opportunities for every girl in Atlanta through education and empowerment.

Founded in 1989 in the East Lake Meadows housing complex, Cool Girls, Inc. is dedicated to empowering young girls through life skills education. The organization started with a handful of girls who dubbed themselves "The Cool Girls of East Lake" and their legacy continues today. Ebony Brown, the Director of Volunteer Service and Outreach for Cool Girls, emphasized the organization's mission: “We’re here to serve our girls.”

Today, Cool Girls serves more than 260 young women in DeKalb County and Atlanta public schools, providing life skills lessons in personal empowerment, conflict resolution, leadership, and social media responsibility. Powered with the help of volunteers, the young women engage in activities that encourage self-expression such as creating “unique me” lanterns, exposure to STEM activities, and field trips to Atlanta institutions like the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and the Georgia Aquarium.

The organization begins working with girls in third grade through high school. "We focus on hands-on activities," Brown notes, referencing their “pink empowerment boxes,” which include journals for reflection and activities like gratitude jars.

Cool Girls also fosters long-term relationships through its mentoring program, Cool Sisters, which connects the girls with mentors for support that can last throughout their school years. “Seeing them grow up and thrive is incredibly rewarding,” Brown reflects.

To support this impactful work, Cool Girls is always in need of volunteers, donations, and interns. Interested individuals can visit thecoolgirls.org to learn more about how to get involved. "I would like to see us continue to go deeper and be able to provide girls with all the resources they need," said Brown.

Yuletide Gift Guide

A

locally-sourced wish list curated to provide comfort and joy.

The perfect present is an elusive entity. There are so many facets to finding a gift that will resonate with someone, whether you’ve been shopping for them for years, or are new in each other’s lives. From office secret Santa to wowing your special someone, this curated list of gifts was handpicked to calm the overwhelm from the seemingly endless number of options available. Each item listed benefits a local Atlanta business and is crafted with intentional care. With a wide breadth of price points and tastes, there’s an elegance to each specially-made, ethical product.

Gift-giving is an ancient practice spanning centuries. It is believed that our earliest ancestors exchanged objects found in nature to strengthen social bonds. To give is as much of an honor as to receive. One doesn’t have to spend lavishly to make an impact, either. Thoughtfulness goes a long way, and personalization brings an added air of consideration; it’s a wonderful way to show how well you have observed and listened to their personal preferences. Peruse this list for inspiration and keep in mind the community members who have infused each gift with their love and expertise. Happy shopping.

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX

“For so many centuries, the exchange of gifts has held us together. It has made it possible to bridge the abyss where language struggles.”

—Barry Lopez

Kelly's Market believes the personal touch makes all the difference. Their personalized gift baskets begin with a conversation and are then crafted to reflect each client’s needs, tastes, and special occasion. The result is a carefully curated, memorable gift that leaves a lasting impression. Every basket they create reflects their dedication to celebrating life’s special moments and serving every customer with care.

megan@kmdecatur.com

Photo by Matt Boggs

HomeGrown Decatur is a one-stop destination for locally-made gifts, art, and decor. Georgia Soap Company’s line of candles is made with eco-friendly soy wax for a vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free experience. To add an illuminating ambiance throughout the dark winter months, scoop up their popular Georgia Peach or Georgia Rain varieties, with long-lasting burns and sweetly fresh scents.

Are you looking to splurge on an extra special gift this year? Decatur City Jewelers brings custom design services to Downtown Decatur with a passion for elevated classics and dynamic symmetry. The possibilities and creative autonomy are an exciting collaboration between the client and designer. Stop in to peruse their limited ready-made selection or set up a consultation to craft the jewelry of your loved one’s dreams.

“A Closer Look | The Neighborhood“ is a gorgeous nature photography book featuring original poetic writing by Susanne Swing Thompson. As you turn each page, you will be captivated by the exquisite details found in nature while on walks in one northeast Atlanta neighborhood. The writing and images encourage readers to see the beauty in nature wherever they live. All 68 pages will surely delight.

Photo

Caroline Ficken

REVIEWS MATTER.

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

THURSDAYS

Terrific Thursdays with Holiday

Downtown Decatur Square | 6:00 PM

Festivities

Enjoy festive fun in downtown Decatur every Thursday in December! Shop late for deals, sips, and bites. Join the Tree Lighting with music at 6 pm on December 5th followed by the lighting at 7 pm. On December 12th, attend a cozy bonfire and marshmallow roast at 6 pm, and don’t miss "The Grinch" screening on December 19 at 6 pm.

DECEMBER 7TH

"Welcoming Winter" three part series hosted by The Peaceful Place

Mason Mill Park | 9:00 AM

Join us for "Welcoming Winter," a three-part series with mindfulness, movement, and nature immersion. Licensed Clinical Social Worker Patrick Bryant and Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Cathy Eads guide you to embrace winter’s beauty. Discover the season as a time of reflection and wonder. For more information, visit thepeacefulplacellc.com/welcoming-winter

DECEMBER 13TH & 14TH

Decatur Holiday Marketplace 2024

Clairemont Elementary, 155 Erie Avenue | 5:30 PM

The 33rd Decatur Holiday Marketplace returns to Clairemont Elementary! Enjoy unique handmade items from local artisans, delicious food, live music, and more. Proceeds support Clairemont students through learning initiatives and teacher grants. Shopping starts at 5:30pm on the 13th and is back all day on the 14th from 9am to 5pm. Stay up to date at decaturholidaymarketplace.com

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