Fayette County July 2016

Fayette County JULY 2016

FayetteCountyLifestyle.com

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SUMMER FLIGHT WITH THE

RIDDELL TEAM

CHUCK WOLF IS BACK! EXPLORE MCCURRY PARK MIDWEST FOOD BANK GIVES BACK

Business and Family Travel • Aircraft Charters • Airplane Maintenance and Management

1130 Echo Court, Peachtree City, Georgia 30269 • 404-925-2073 • atlantaeastfly.com

CORPORATE EVENTS 461 SANDY CREEK RD. #2121 FAYETTEVILLE, GEORGIA 30214 (770) 460-0280 HANNABROTHERS.COM

Lifestyle Letter

Summer: Local and Simple.

S

ummer has arrived! School is out and the weather is hot. It is easy to get wanderlust for far away places; this issue is about appreciating the amazing people and places nearby. Whether it is you, you and your spouse, or the whole family in toe, there is much to explore, from outdoor parks to natural beauties only a state away. I hope this issue can help you imagine a fantastic summer experience, like it has done for me.

What is it that makes summer travel especially meaningful? I tend to think it is the people I meet and the stories that I collect. Fayette County and just outside have some great stories and even greatPhotography Pitter Kalpak Goughnour er people. It might be the early inspirations of a father and son duo that lead a charter flight company at Atlanta Regional Airport, or the store manager whose mission is to ensure you leave feeling transformed. When Fayette County Lifestyle visited Midwest Food Bank, we were moved by its mission to bridge the gap between prosperity and povery in our community. You may find some of the best summer fun right here in Fayette, or be inspired by a new experience fit for Fayette just outside of the county.

Now is a great time to explore. This season, I hope you are able to take in the little things, explore near and far, and collect the stories each place tells.

Happy summertime!

JULY 2016 publisher

Michelle Willis | Michelle.Willis@LifestylePubs.com publisher assistant

Donna Dow | Donna.Dow@LifestylePubs.com editor

Ogechi Oparah | Ogechi.Oparah@LifestylePubs.com copy editor

Azrielle Roundtree advertising sales

Stephanie Johnson | Stephanie.Johnson@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Sue Collins, Mark Moody, Ogechi Oparah, Joshua Placa, Collin Shamley contributing photographers

John Arthur, Kimberly Dejanovich, Pitter Kalpak Goughnour, Ron Hill, Kia Oparah, Mark Turner

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

P.S. We are always interested in your story ideas, as well as your comments and feedback.

Please e-mail us at ogechi.oparah@lifestylepubs.com to share your thoughts. Also, stay tuned for our "Best Of " edition this fall, in which our readers decide on some of the best Fayette County businesses in a broad set of categories.

Ogechi Oparah ogechi.oparah@lifestylepubs.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

ogechi.oparah@lifestylepubs.com

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER

Ogechi Oparah, Editor

| Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Fayette County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Fayette County’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Fayette County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

2016 BEST OF FAYETTE AWARDS

N O M I N AT E YO U R FAVO R I T E LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S !

• • • • • • • • • • •

AU TO M OT I V E E D U C AT I O N E N T E R TA I N M E N T R EC R E AT I O N SHOPPING CENTERS FINANCIAL SERVICES H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S DENTISTS FINE DINING S P E C I A LT Y S H O P S AND MUCH MORE!

THREE $100.00 GIFT CERTIFICATES will be randomly awarded to readers who have submitted completed ballots.

3 ROUNDS STARTING JULY 1!

Round 1: July 1-July 31

NOMINATE your favorite businesses! The Top 5 businesses nominated in each category will move to Round 2!

Round 2: August 1-August 15

VOTE for your favorite business among the 5 nominees. Voting ends on August 15.

Results: October 1

The wait is over; we have the winners! Our Best Of Issue will list the Top Vote Getters. You will not want to miss this issue, one of the most popular publications of the year!

GO TO:

www.BestofFayette.com

TODAY TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES!

July 2016

Departments

18

12 Chuck Wolf is Back!

Camera King Chuck Wolf Steps up to the Digital Design Bar

Travel to a different world with Zen Massage Fayetteville

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Trend Setter

14

Healthy Lifestyle

16

Giving Back

22

Driver’s Notebook

24

Water & Woods

26

Hot Spot

28

Road Trip

32

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

14 Your Summer Massage Therapy

12

14 Lifestyle Publications

Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana North Carolina | Ohio | Oklahoma | Tennessee | Texas | Utah

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7

Good Times

Taste of Fayette is Full of Food and Fun

Main Street's 2016 Taste of Fayette had an overwhelming turnout, bringing people from all over Fayette County to the heart of the city.

Participants young and old got to enjoy a day full of delicious food, fun activities, chalk arts and crafts. PHOTOGRAPHY MARK TURNER

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

FREE PRACTICE SESSIONS FOR PEACHTREE CITY DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

Martine is pioneering a generation of not only young teen African American dancers, but dancers that have dreams and goals of dancing somewhere they can't even imagine.

Martine Bartley has excelled in both her academic and dance studies. She has maintained a 3.5 or higher GPA, and she has always showcased a mature level of discipline while working in and out of school.

Her first lead role as Sarah in Ballethnic's Urban Nutcracker fueled her to become the phenomenal dancer she is. Martine developed a disciplined, leadership-driven attitude in every class she participated in. She was recently awarded a full scholarship

In conjunction with the Peachtree City Rotary Club Dragon Boat Races

to study at the Orlando Ballet for its summer program. Last sum-

and International Festival on September 24, there will be free Dragon Boat

mer she had the privilege of attending the Governor’s Honors

crew practices on the second Saturday of July, and August. The public is

Program and Dance Theatre of Harlem's Summer Intensive. In

invited, whether you plan on entering a boat or not. The next practice will

this past season, Martine performed a historic Pas de Duex along

be Saturday, July 9, 3:00 p.m., at Lake McIntosh. All paddles, life jackets,

with Terrell Venn from the ballet Le Corsaire. The response was

and boats are provided. Wear boating clothes, sunscreen, and "wettable"

overwhelmingly positive. A former principal dancer from the

shoes. Normal water safety rules (no practice during threat of thunder

North Carolina Dance Theatre was so taken by her performance

storms) will apply. Free parking for Fayette County vehicles. It's challenging

that the only words he could say were: " That little ballerina per-

and fun! If you'd like to come earlier, organizers will be training/practicing

formed with a level of grace that seasoned professionals acquire

Steering and Coaching. Rotary needs paddlers for that, too -- no experi-

after years of dancing."

ence necessary. For more info, visit PTCDragonBoats.org.

INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE Monday July 4, 2016, Peachtree City will hold its annual Independence Day Parade. The parade begins on Peachtree Parkway, north of Braelinn Golf Club at 9AM and goes until about 11:00AM. Fireworks begin at dusk at Drake Field.

AVENTURE AVIATION WINS PRIZED AWARD

We are proud of Martine and all of her accomplishments!

SANDY CREEK SKILLSUSA CHAPTER NAMED MODEL OF EXCELLENCE FOR SECOND YEAR The SkillsUSA chapter at Sandy Creek High has been named a Model of Excellence for the second consecutive year, and is among the top 24 SkillsUSA chapters nationally.

As a Model of Excellence, the Sandy Creek chapter will

Aventure Aviation was recognized this spring at the Metro Atlanta

receive a grant up to $4,000 from Lowe’s, a sponsor of the pro-

Chamber Global Impact Awards luncheon at the Aquarium. Over

gram, at the 2016 National Leadership and Skills Conference in

400 guests and a number of major corporations were in attendance.

Louisville, Kentucky, June 20-24.

The keynote speaker for the event was David Abney, Chairman

The national Models of Excellence program promotes the

and CEO of UPS. Aventure Aviation beat out Equifax and Inncom

intentional learning of personal, workplace and technical skills

- two major multimillion dollar Atlanta based companies to win

outlined in the SkillsUSA framework for student development.

the prestigious Global Business Growth award for our County and

Specific characteristics defined within each skill area help

city. Congratulations Aventure Aviation for this honor!

ensure tangible benchmarks for student achievement and chapter programming. Achievement is measured by the effectiveness of student efforts in implementing essential workplace skills including personal responsibility, integrity, work ethic, and organization in chapter activities. The hands-on approach of this program actualizes the SkillsUSA mission of empowering members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.

FAYETTE DANCER LEAPS TO NEW HEIGHTS Martine Bartlely is an excellent example of how bright the future of dance really is. A Fayette County online student,

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

EDITOR'S NOTE A correction that in the last issue's Lumbergents article, the photographer was misprinted and should have been listed as Ron Hill.

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404-361-6560 741 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 www.harlemzen.com 646.389.3633 July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

11

Trend Setter

Camera King Chuck Wolf Steps Up to the Digital Design Bar

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nce the wizard of camera retail, Chuck Wolf sold cameras when they were heavy, clunky things with big, expensive lenses and an insatiable appetite for expensive celluloid film. He has since adapted to the digital age with a new focus.

The 74-year-old entrepreneur once owned some 700 brick and mortar stores nationally. His chain, Wolf Camera, was synonymous with the latest in film and

ARTICLE J. JOSHUA PLACA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Foothill High School Team

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

developing tech. But then something happened that changed Wolf and the shutterbug business forever.

Seemingly overnight, film and its developing processes retreated to the domain of art houses and rogue holdouts hiding in darkrooms and dank basements.

This small niche could not sustain a rapidly shrinking market in film cameras.

The silver nitrate was on the wall, and eventually Wolf Camera was shuttered. A stint with Ritz Camera, owned by Wolf ’s uncle, offered some borrowed time, but fell to the same fate in 2012.

When most seniors would be planning their next tee time, Wolf planned his comeback. “I’m having fun,” he said, “I saw no point in sitting still, this is my passion and I love it. I love photography and how it can makes and preserves memories for people. It’s what I do, it’s what I’ll always do.”

In 2014, Wolf launched Photo Design Bar and plans to once again rebuild his empire, eventually expanding nationally with satellite or franchise operations. “The film camera gave way to digital, but it didn’t end there,” said Wolf. “Now, smartphones offer the resolution SLR cameras did only a few years ago with much more convenience.

It’s amazing how far that technology has come. We don’t even sell cameras.” Instead, the Digital Photo Bar offers myriad options to preserve, restore or enhance those images, transforming them into art or advertising.

“We can apply our customer’s digital images to canvas, wood, metal, virtually any surface. This creates personalized ‘art decor’ for home or office, said Wolf, “Images can be printed from wallet size to 10-foot x 30-foot billboard. We can print on T-shirts, lamps, coffee mugs—pretty much anything the customer wants.”

Wolf has created a kind of photographic concierge service.

He employs professional photographers and photoshop experts to create special effects, enhance images, dropout backgrounds, retouch, restore or repair old print photos, and create photo books, calendars, and DVDs for still shots or video. Similar to Apple’s Genius program, store personnel will offer hands-on help to customers wanting to learn how best to use their smartphone cameras, according to Wolf. Education programs on digital photography on a one-on-one basis or classroom setting are also available. Individual tutoring costs $100 per hour; group classes cost $50 for a 90-minute session.

Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar is located at 3763 Roswell Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30342; call 404-709-2981; info@photodesignbar.com; PhotoDesignBar.com

DOG WALKER • CAT CARE • OVERNIGHT STAYS • IN HOME PET CARE

Since 1975 your beloved pets have been happy at home in the Atlanta metropolitan area

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critter-sitters.com • @petnanny56 • facebook.com/elisamprice 54 Bay Branch Blvd, Fayetteville, GA 30214 • 404-377-5475 x576 July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

13

Healthy Lifestyle

TREAT YOURSELF TO AN EXPERIENCE THIS SUMMER

Zen Massage Takes You There ARTICLE OGECHI OPARAH | PHOTOGRAPHY KIA OPARAH

S

ummertime can prove difficult to chart out travel to far away lands. Walk into Zen Massage and it’s easy to feel like you are in a different world. Located in the Summit Point shopping center off of Glynn Street South, Zen began here when mother and son decided to come together in business.

The LaBroi’s opened up shop in 2007, right before the recession hit. Mother, Mary LaBroi had retired after 23 years in public schools. Son Steve LaBroi had a long career in sales. The franchise operation was at the time brand new: only ten people were buying then. Now, nearly ten years later, the LaBroi’s manage two stores: one in Fayetteville and one in Atlanta.

Shauna has been with the company for ten years. She was one of the first staff members interviewed before Zen began in Fayetteville. With a background in massage therapy, Shauna is able to incorporate the principles of the discipline into how she cares for each patient. “This is my passion work”, says Shauna, mother of two. Setting the tone is also critical– “The attitude here is, ‘Let me help you. Let me show you how this is going to change you.’ It is really about treating the whole self.”

When asked about some of their keys to success, staff share that it is an affordable service centered on the therapy at hand. Known for not using contracts or membership fees, Zen Massage is committed to staving away the frills, bells or whistles, in favor of simplicity: just exceptional massage therapy service. Affordability also means that clients can be intentional about treating themselves on a regular basis, whether that is once a week, once a month, or several times a year.

Walk into the anteroom and settle into one of the chairs while you await your massage therapist. Have a talk with the front desk manager,

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

and take in the Feng Shui-inspired artwork and furniture. Then it’s off to your massage or perhaps your skin care treatment, where your transformation and total relaxation is priority for each therapist.

Steve LaBroi says, “In this business, it is all about what you can give. We do our best to build a relationship with our clients.” And most of all, Zen keeps it simple.

Are you the type of person who may come into Zen Massage? In this unassuming nook, celebrities and star athletes, first-timers, chiropractors, and massage therapists alike all seem to find something to return to. It may be a great place for you if you just need a getaway.

This summer, enjoy special packages for your spa party or small group. Explore the skin care treatment center using Dermalogica product line, or just come treat yourself to a moment away from it all.

The Loft at Due South

A Special Event Center in Peachtree City, Ga THE LOFT at Due South combines the celebrated cuisine of Due South Southern Cuisine with a polished elegance that fuses perfectly for your special event. Our venue supports Rehearsal Dinners, Corporate Events, Wedding Receptions, All Day Meetings, and Family Events. THE LOFT at Due South is comprised of 3 separate rooms. The Main Ballroom, The Augusta Room (a/v equipped), and The Savannah Room (a/v equipped). Two seated balconies offer a very unique perspective on the surrounding area.

Zen Massage is a franchise based out of Charlotte, NC. There are four locations in the state of Georgia. Zen Massage is located in Fayetteville at 840 Glynn Street South #334. For more information on Zen Massage in Fayette County, visit:

ZenMassageUSA.com

302 Clover Reach Peachtree City, Georgia 30269 Due South (770) 629-5847 • The Loft at Due South (678) 251-2225 duesouthptc.com • theloftatduesouth.com July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

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Giving Back Yo u

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MIDWEST FOOD BANK GIVES BACK ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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idwest Food Bank (MFB) – Georgia Division is a faith based 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization located in Peachtree City, Georgia.

It all began in 2003 when an Illinois farmer named David Kieser and his family began providing food to local nonprofits in Bloomington, Illinois. From that beginning, Midwest Food Bank has expanded to seven locations across Illinois, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, and Nairobi, Kenya.

Midwest Food Bank has a simple goal: to serve those who serve. That means providing food for nonprofit organizations that freely give food to those in need. As Founder and President of MFB David Kieser says, “Our hope is to help bridge the gap between prosperity and poverty in our community.”

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

MFB’s Peachtree City facility opened in October, 2011. Since it opened, the results have been phenomenal: in less than five years, the Midwest Food Bank has seen a 5,000% increase in the number of cases of food distributed each month. The Georgia Division now provides food to more than 245 nonprofit organizations over a 300-mile radius in four states, completely free-of-charge. These organizations in turn distribute freely to more than 138,000 people each month, making a huge dent in a major problem of hunger and poverty.

However the need continues to grow. With 50 organizations on its waiting list, Midwest Food Bank works diligently to expand its capacity. With additional food donations and financial support and volunteers, Midwest Food Bank – Georgia Division is able impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in the region each month.

Volunteers package food together

In its latest project, MFB has stepped out on faith and broken ground to build a loading dock and additional warehouse to meet the needs of the community. The project is estimated to cost $750,000, but Executive Director Will Garner is optimistic.

Charity Navigator rates over 8,300 charities in the United States. Midwest Food Bank is the top rated Food Bank in the U.S., and the #2 charity in the country that relies solely on private contributions. It’s no wonder. 99.5% of funds donated to Midwest Food Bank go directly to food distribution. That feat is attributable to the volunteers who make everything possible. With only three staff members, volunteers are vital. In 2015 3,601 people served for nearly 28,000 hours, showing the sheer possibility when community comes together. In 2015, the Georgia Division distributed over 308,000 cases of food valued at over $10 million dollars.

Executive Director Will Garner greets everyone who enters the MFB facility with a smile. He says of his job, “I have yet to have a bad day at work.” The work is both heartbreaking and inspiring, but knowing that blessings are being shared with others, and that it makes a difference, makes it all worthwhile.

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For more information visit, Peachtree.MidwestFoodBank.org.

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July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

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ATLANTA

EAST AVIATION Father and Son Take Flight

ARTICLE EDITOR AND PHOTOGRAPHY KIMBERLY DEJANOVICH (L-R) Joe and Bob Riddell 18

Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

Atlanta East Aviation provides charter flights in the Southeastern region, and has a flight school for those who are interested in learning how to fly.

The company ranks top ten among the best Atlanta air charter companies.

FAMILY HEROES

Bob Riddell has always had a love for aviation. Riddell grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, the then headquarters of Chicago and Southern Air Lines (C&S). When he was a boy, he would watch crop-dusting in Arkansas, which he describes as “poetry in motion.” His uncle flew air ambulances (called “hospital ships”) during World War II, and he just hung the moon for Bob. Bob Riddell got his dream job in 1966 and flew for Delta for over 30 years. After being offered full retirement in 1997, Bob began building his own business.

Meanwhile, Bob’s son Joe watched his dad closely. “As a child I remember thinking ‘This is the best job ever’. I was always reminded that if you really loved what you did, you never had to work a day in your life.” Growing up, Joe had the unique opportunity to hear his father speak about

aviation at career days, and back when security challenges were not the same, he would get to go behind the scenes with his dad to see all that went into preparing for a f light.

Bob’s affinity for the air inspired Joe to study aviation at Auburn University.

After graduation, Joe started working for what was at the time AirTran as a gate agent, gate supervisor, and then in management. He started flying with the company in 2003, beginning with a 717, and upgrading two years later to captain of a 737. In 2014, when the merger hit, Joe transitioned to Southwest Airlines.

He works as Vice President and Director of Operations with Atlanta East Aviation.

Bob chimes in on the irony that his son went through the same difficult process that he did. “I had no influence on his promotion whatsoever.” It’s easy not to make it through the process, but for Bob, he could say this about his son, “It’s the love of aviation that got him through. One thing I tried to instill in all of my children is, you’ve never lost until you give up. So if you have something you have a passion for, just keep plugging away, it doesn’t matter what it is.”

CONTINUED >

ATLANTA EAST AVIATION (CON TI N U ED)

COMPANY HISTORY

Atlanta East Aviation started with the 1998 purchase of a small fixed base operation in Covington, Georgia. The operation specialized in everything from aircraft maintenance and storage, to a small flight school, and space for people to build their own hangars. By 2001 they had near full ownership of the operation, and by 2006 had partnered to grow the airport from 30 airplanes to 108 airplanes on the field. In 2011, Atlanta East Aviation relocated to Peachtree City, GA. They have loved their new location on Falcon Field. The friendly and collegial nature of all the companies on the field makes the location ideal. Atlanta East Aviation recently purchased two new planes: a King Air 350 and a Lear Jet 60.

WHAT DISTINGUISHES ATLANTA EAST AVIATION

Joe notes that what he thinks sets Atlanta East Aviation apart is its unwavering dedication to the highest quality service. “You couldn’t find the experience level of our pilots anywhere else.” Two of the four charter pilots are retired from Delta with over 50,000 hours of combined experience; another is a former navy F18 pilot, and another a mechanic with incredible certifications. The bar is set very high to provide top quality service to customers and the community.

For Joe Riddell, it is important that Atlanta East Aviation isn’t a secret to Fayette County. “One of our goals is to have more people originating from Peachtree City, Georgia who have top of the line training and amazing charter flight experiences.”

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

21

Driver’s Notebook

BMW 528i with xDrive ENJOY DRIVING AGAIN

ARTICLE MARK MOODY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

S

ometimes my wife and I don’t see eye to eye. Such is the case when it comes to automobiles.

To her, a car is just a mode of transportation—a way to get from point A to point B. To me, a car is not just a way to get down the road, but rather a vehicle for excitement. I love to drive. In my 20s I owned a silver sports car that I drove whenever I had a spare moment. Twenty years and two kids later, I find myself driving an SUV. Now the time has come to look for a new vehicle. I need a family-friendly vehicle that will still get my heart pumping.

After much investigation and many test drives, I found the BMW 528i with xDrive.

On the outside, the BMW 528i is a classically refined sedan that will turn the heads of other drivers. It comes standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, LED accent lights and LED fog lights.

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

EVENTS.

As soon as I opened the door, I was anxious to get behind the wheel. The spacious and comfortable cabin beckons you to sit in the captain’s chair. When I sit in a car for the first time, I like to familiarize myself with its features. The BMW 528i does not disappoint when it comes to high-tech features and creature comforts, including auto-dimming heated mirrors, automatic wipers, sunroof, dual-zone cruise control, power-tilt-steering wheel and iDrive interface with a 10.2 inch display. For the music lover, it has a 12-speaker sound system, aux-in jack and 20 GB of digital music storage.

Now for the best part—I started the engine. As the motor purred, I could almost hear the 40 plus years of refinement that went into its development. I pressed down hard on the gas pedal. I was amazed how quickly this large sedan accelerates.

It is truly impressive that this car can hit 60 mph in just over six seconds. The BMW 528i is all of this, while maintaining a sensible mpg—around 30 combined.

The 8-speed automatic transmission performs flawlessly.

However, if you want a truer driving experience, you can opt for manual drive and use the steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.

You will feel like a rock star!

This model has the xDrive moniker, which means it exhibits incredible handling in all weather. The fine-tuned powertrain, suspension and steering system provide driving dynamics that are high precision while still smooth running. I could feel the sporty driving pleasure that the chassis transmitted from the road directly through the steering wheel. The end result is a vehicle that offers an exhilarating combination of sheer dynamism, comfort and everyday usability.

When you are looking to buy your next family car, don’t settle for a boring old sedan or an adrenaline inhibiting SUV. Treat yourself to a luxury and pulse-boosting vehicle, the BMW 528i with xDrive.

Visit BMW of South Atlanta at 4171 Jonesboro Rd, Union City, GA 30291 to test drive the 528i. BMWofSouthAtlanta.com

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eventualconcepts.com | 770.743.2133 hello@eventualconcepts.com July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

23

Water & Woods

McCurry Park MANY CHOICES FOR SUMMER FUN PHOTOGRAPHY KIA OPARAH

L

ocated at the intersection of Highway 54 and McDonough Road, McCurry Park has many of the features you need to enjoy a fun and inspiring summer day. A visit here can easily include a stroll or bike ride on varied nature pathways. You will pass a small pond, light hills, and nearly the whole range of the complex. You might try a jog around the track or a pick-up football game. The built-in disc golf course is a favorite for amateurs and competitors alike. Spend time with family or old friends at the picnic pavilion and play on one of the two playgrounds on campus. McCurry Park is well known for its soccer and softball fields. With enough shade to enjoy your favorite book under a tree, McCurry is a great place to try for the first time or return to if you have been away for awhile.

McCurry Park, located at GA-54 and McDonough Road in Fayette County 24

Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

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Hot Spot

VINGENZO'S PASTA AND PIZZERIA

I

f you have been searching for authentic Italian cuisine, then look no further. Vingenzo’s, located in

Woodstock, GA, is unique in that every dish is created with individual attention and care. To Chef Mike Bologna, it doesn’t matter how many great meals he has prepared in the past. All that matters is the next meal and the next customer he is serving. I had the privilege of interviewing Chef Mike to learn more about the restaurant and its success.

Q: As a restaurant, what makes Vingenzo’s special?

A: It’s not Americanized whatsoever. It’s what we do

in Italy. Everything is made here on a premise. I make my own sausage. I make my own pasta. I make my own pizza. I make my own gelatos. Everything is made fresh every day. When we run out we run out for that day and we make it again tomorrow.

Most of my clientele are from a 30-plus mile radius.

They drive to the restaurant knowing that the love, care and respect for ingredients is there and the quality of the product is on the plate. Hopefully they had the most fantastic meal that they’ve ever had. It might bring back memories from childhood, if they had this type of food when they were younger. And I hope that they experienced a true dining experience with a true value.

Q: How did the idea for the restaurant come about?

A: It was all because I wanted a true Italian pizza. I visited Italy quite a bit and I wanted pizza like they served in Naples. So I built an oven and the entire restaurant was built around the oven.

Q: Is the business today what you had imagined it to be at the start? How has it changed or evolved?

A: Well I wanted a small place so that I can have my pizza. And then it just grew and evolved. It kept growing and became much larger than I had anticipated.

The initial concept was not this big. But knowing that there are individuals who crave for the true product, I’m happy to do what I do for them.

Q: Is there anything you wish you knew at the start of your business that you know now?

A: The business was built on the customers’ needs, so I didn’t overextend and bring it to what only I wanted to do. The only thing I wanted to do was keep it true to the cuisine and keep a great plate value. That’s the main thing I wanted to do and I never waivered from that.

As far as the growth of the restaurant, that all came Pasta being freshly prepared

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

from the customer. I started out in 2008, just before the economy started to tank out. As the clientele base

grew the demands for quality, I expanded. The food quality has always stayed the same—at the highest level. I would never lessen that quality, because that’s just not me.

Q: Would you say that consistency is very important for what you provide your customers?

A: Consistency is everything. When you go to a restaurant and you have something you really liked, you have been excited enough to tell someone else, when you go back or when that person goes there that you told you expect it to be the same quality or higher.

Our publisher Michelle Taylor Willis has this to say about Vingenzo’s: “The food was amazing. I would love to have a Chef Mike in Fayette. He makes everything from scratch and you can taste the love for what he does in his food.”

Chef Mike is not against opening new restaurants.

“It only depends. I’m leaving it wide open.” We might be lucky to get him to open something in Fayette!

Vingenzo's is located on 105 East Main Street Suite 100 Woodstock, Georgia 30188 P. (770)-924-9133

“My attitude is very simple. I am always striving for perfection. The pursuit of perfection is where excellence is the norm. Mediocre isn’t in our vocabulary. The way I look at it is, how can I be better every day? It’s not what I have done.

It’s what I am going to do.”

- Chef Mike Bologna

HOURS: Tuesday-Thursday - 5:00pm to 9:00pm

Friday & Saturday / 11:00am to 10:00pm Sunday / 10:30am to 9:00pm Brunch served until 2:00pm

July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

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ADORABLE BEAUFORT

Road Trip

WHERE PROUD SOUTHERN HERITAGE MEETS A MODERN COASTLINE ARTICLE SUE G COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN ARTHUR PHOTOGRAPHY

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

S

pending a long weekend in beautiful Beaufort, South Carolina is like going to a favorite auntie’s home where you feel the warm embrace of familiar history, the open arms of an authentic welcome and the promise of new adventures at the table that will surprise yet reassure even the most dedicated Lowcountry foodie. You will itch that scratch you didn’t know you had for being outdoors, committing to a serious stroll through the town’s 300 historically designated acres, rambling coastal trails of the many neighboring protected sea islands and finding new ways to explore the waterways that surrounds the city founded in 1711. With postcard views of the Beaufort River dotted with working shrimp boats heading out around the barrier islands, soft marshes where intercoastal kayakers and paddle boarders play and of cobbled streets lined with pre-Civil War homesteads, Beaufort will keep you engaged from the moment you arrive after your short four hour drive from Atlanta. (I arrived in a gorgeous Lexus RX350 that cradled me in V6 comfort, thank you very much!)

Beaufort has more antebellum homes than its more tourist crazed South Carolina sister city, Charleston, 70 miles up the coast. The Beaufort Visitor Center offers up a map for a self-guided walking (or biking) tour of some 27 homes built as early as 1717 (this one also served as a private

school for boys in the 1800s and is beautifully maintained today). Or, climb aboard a horsedrawn buggy with The Sea Island Carriage Co. and if you’re lucky, your guide and driver will be Debbie who will point out where movies were filmed, where history was made and how special the Angle Oak trees are that bend to the ground and grow high again from the sandy soil. Local outdoorsman Tim Lovett at Higher Ground Outfitters will get you kayaking through the tidal marshes, land paddling (long skate board plus a stubby paddle = tons of fun) along the newly paved rail-to-trail 3.3 mile Spanish Moss Trail or stand up paddle boarding where you feel like a ship captain exploring a new world.

We were joined by dolphins, working shrimp boats and small leisure boats as we paddled out from Waterfront Park downtown and into the Beaufort River early one misty morning.

Hunting Island State Park across the bridge is another quiet giant, with 5,000 acres of marsh, maritime forest, saltwater lagoons and four miles of sandy beaches where the Friends of Hunting Island (850 volunteers) guard up to 100 loggerhead sea turtles’ nests then hatchlings each spring, logging some 7,000 hours of beach babysitting time. The bubbly Bonnie Wright is a retired board member and lovingly guided me through the lively visitors center,

CONTINUED >

July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

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Road Trip

(CON TI N U ED)

nearby educational nature center where you can borrow fishing tackle on the pier and astatuesque lighthouse built in 1873- the only one open to the public in the state - where I climbed what seemed like a hundred spiral steps to the top and was rewarded with a view of the coastline and a canopy of Cabbage Palmetto, Slash Pines, Longleaf Pines, Live Oaks and more that make up the island’s four climate zones.

Hunting Island is beautifully maintained, dogfriendly, and mostly handicap accessible from the campground to the 12 miles of designated trails. Bonnie says, “Mother Nature likes to move, so we rearrange,” outlining the Friends’ year-around conservation work fighting erosion and protecting wildlife.

Before and after all this exploring, Beaufort serves up coffee at the cool City Java & News, waterfront Common Grounds or Beaufort Break Company on the adjoining Lady’s Island and breakfast at Palm & Moon Bagel Company and the charming Lowcountry Produce. Q on Bay is open for lunch, dinner and late snacks like the chef’s daily egg rolls (imagine brisket and blue cheese), smoked meats galore and desserts from the chef’s mom. Gary and Donna Lang moved from Atlanta in 2001 and opened Breakwater Restaurant, where Executive Chefs Gary and Beth Shaw source local beers, fresh

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

caught seafood, red rice grown nearby and serve creative cuisine in an urban-elegant yet approachable restaurant in the historic district.

Try an espresso martini, the southern fried oysters from the tapas menu and the local catch served up with local seasonal vegetables. The Old Bull Tavern feels like a refined pub, with a menu that changes with the tide and season (but not overly trendy), progressive offerings from behind the bar and warm but polished service. The amiable owner John Marshall (think rock star meets forager) brings his savvy style from his Charleston hot spot, Al Di La Tratorria. Stay at City Loft Hotel, a hip but luxurious renovated modern motel where the 4-zone shower, soaking tub and high threadcount bedding will lull you a safe harbor. But get up! Get out into your engaging Beaufort day where the energy of a community that truly adores its history and is crafting its future will enfold you and put you in a happy place.

DETAILS CityLoftHotel.com 843.379.5638 HigherGroundOutfitters.com 843.379.4327 The Old Bull Tavern 843.379.2855 BreakwaterSC.com 843.379.0052 DowntownBeaufort.com QonBay.com HuntingIsland.com Sea Island Carriage Co. 843.525.1821

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Lifestyle Calendar

ADULT AND PEDIATRIC SERVICES PHYSICAL THERAPY MASSAGE THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

July

JULY 3 - 5

Massage Specials 20% OFF

Massages

JULY FOURTH WEEKEND STAR SPANGLED BEACH PARTY CALLAWAY GARDENS Callaway Garden's annual event full of beach activities, live music, circus acts, and fireworks at Robin Lake Beach. Admission fee required.

JULY 9, 30 SOUTHERN GROUND SUMMER CONCERT SERIES SOUTHERN GROUND AMPHITHEATER On July 9th, Southern Ground hosts an evening with R&B power-

Free Physical Therapy Screening

house, The Commodores. This legendary Motown soul/pop group cranked out plenty of dance hits and ballads in the 70’s and 80’s.

The evening will come alive to such mega-classics as “Brick House”,

No Doctor’s referral needed!

“Three Times a Lady”, and “Nightshift”.

JULY 16 FAYETTE MARKET DAY OLD HISTORIC COURTHOUSE GROUNDS

Schedule your appointment today! tttttt Htttt tttttttt Sutttttt B Ftttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

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Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

At the Fayette Market Day, vendors with homemade, homegrown produce and merchandise sell to the public in an open-air market environment.

JULY 18-21 RESTAURANT WEEK COUNTYWIDE The Fayette Chamber of Commerce organizes Restaurant Week.

You are encouraged to patronize local participating businesses this week to support the community. Keep an eye out for updates at FayetteChamber.org.

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME SERVICES

PET CARE

Christian Brothers Automotive Sharpsburg (678) 369-6950 locations.cbac.com/fischer-crossings/

Maidpro - Fayetteville (770) 472-2220 maidpro.com/fayetteville

REAL ESTATE

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS

Zan McBride State Farm Agent (770) 460-0836 zanmcbrideinsurance.com

Savvi Studios (678) 835-8989

AUTOMOTIVE

Fayette Chamber of Commerce (770) 461-9983 fayettechamber.org

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Eventual Concepts (770) 743-2133 eventualconcepts.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Certified Financial Consulting (770) 729-4492 certifiedfinancialconsulting.com Pivotal Wealth Management (678) 480-9948 pivotalwm.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Pain 2 Wellness Center (404) 699-0966 pain2wellness.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Decorating Den Interiors Kim Ormsby (404) 921-3120 theormsbyteam.decoratingden.com/

Estes Services (404) 361-6560 estesair.com/

INSURANCE

LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE Bentley Atlanta (678) 352-3572 bentleyatlanta.com

MASSAGE

Zen Massage Fayetteville (770) 719-4936 zenmassageusa.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Atlanta Premier OB/GYN (678) 705-4900 askdrtosha.com Ideal Therapy (404) 994-7727 idealtherapy.net

OTHER

Amadi Leadership Associates Inc. (678) 346-0953 amadileadership.com

Critter Sitters (404) 377-5475 critter-sitters.com BHGRE Metro Brokers (678) 731-6991 reginamincey.metrobrokers.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE CEO Custom Cakes (404) 795-1403 ceocustomcakes.com/

Due South Southern Cuisine (770) 629-5847 duesouthptc.com/ Hanna Brothers Motion Picture and Event Catering (770) 460-0280 hannabrothers.com

SALONS & SPAS Harlem Zen Med Spa Treatment Lounge (646) 389-3633 harlemzen.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE Atlanta East Aviation (404) 925-2073 atlantaeastfly.com

Fayette County Lifestyle (404) 471-3521 fayettecountylifestyle.com

July 2016 | Fayette County Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

HOW TO HAVE A STRESS-FREE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE TRAVEL TIPS 101 ARTICLE NAEEMAH GENTRY | PHOTOGRAPHY [PROVIDED]

T

raveling can be stressful if you don’t plan properly. Here are some

Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it! Plus, it is

tips and reminders to help you have a positive, stress-free travel

a minimal amount to pay to protect your travel investment.

experience this season.

TIP #5 – ORGANIZATION

TIP # 1 – PLAN AHEAD

Keep all of your travel documents in one place when traveling.

When do you want to travel? The longer the time horizon, the bet-

Make a photocopy of everyone’s passport. Have a folder with

ter, so it is wise to leave yourself some room. Setting a date months

everyone’s travel documents (passports, boarding passes, hotel/

in advance allows more time to make payments, prepay tours and

resort confirmations, etc.) and keep it with you at all times in your

excursions, and pay off your credit card before your trip.

"carry on” luggage, purse, backpack etc. Once you’re done presenting these documents, step aside and put them away immediately!

TIP #2 – TRIP ITINERARY

Lay out your wardrobe in advance. This allows you to see every-

What type of vacation are you looking for? Do you want rest &

thing you'll be packing and to match up your clothing, accessories

relaxation? Do you want lots of tours & excursions? Do you want

and shoes, etc. To minimize your packing load, try using the same

plenty of action (i.e., sports and activities)?

accessories and shoes for different outfits.

If traveling with children, confirm that your destination choice is “family friendly” and can provide children’s activities in order for the adults to get some “alone time”.

TIP # 6 – TIME AND ATTITUDE

Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, park and get through security. The less stress you put on yourself and your family,

TIP #3 – WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?

Determine the amount of money you want to allocate for this trip.

Include air, ground transportation, hotel/resort, food and beverage, tours and activities. While vacationing, have a “per diem” budget in

the better your attitude. No need to put unnecessary strain on yourself and the staff attempting to serve you.

The more preparation you can do on the front end, the more you can alleviate any undue stress on the back end. Happy Travels!

mind to control your spending.

Naeemah Gentry is a Certified Travel Consultant in Fayette County. Naeemah TIP #4 – TRAVEL PROTECTION

Always secure travel insurance for your trip. Nothing in life is guaranteed, and anything can happen to prevent your upcoming travel.

34

Fayette County Lifestyle | July 2016

enjoys helping people create wonderful travel memories. She specializes in all-inclusive Caribbean Vacations and Cruises (individual & group).

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