The Love Local Issue
Monica McGowan, FNP-BC
Zwade Marshall, MD, MBA
Jennifer Xiong, MD
Visit the Dealer of the Year at
Wanda Cronic Howell, owner and dealer of Cronic Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Cronic Nissan, and Cronic Chevrolet GMC in Griffin, is a nominee for the 2025 TIME Ally Dealer of the Year award. She is one of 49 automobile dealers from across the United States who will be recognized in January by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). She was nominated by Lea Kirschner, president and CEO of the Georgia Automobile Dealers Association.
The TIME Ally Dealer of the Year program, one of the most prestigious in the industry, honors new-car dealers in America who exhibit exceptional performance in their dealerships and perform distinguished community service. Dealers are nominated by members of the Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAE) and the winner is acknowledged at the annual NADA Show.
The national award will be presented Jan. 25, 2025 at the NADA TIME Ally Dealer of the Year ceremony in New Orleans, La.
In 1985 Howell joined the company founded by her father, and she assumed its leadership in 2003. Today she oversees three dealerships in Griffin and is active in a wide range of initiatives from serving on the board of the GADA to her support of women in business, local educators and various nonprofits.
She led her company to become a major supporter of the Griffin-Spalding County
Teacher of the Year award, to which she contributes a one-year car lease to the annual winner. She is a supporter of the Salvation Army of Griffin, continuing an effort begun by her father, and does significant work for the American Business Women’s Association.
“The most rewarding aspect of my automotive career has been the opportunity to inspire and elevate other women as leaders in this industry,” said Howell. “Multigenerational women in dealerships are
rare, and there were doubts about whether I could succeed in a male- dominated business. Yet, nearly 30 years later, I’ve not only survived but thrived.”
On any given day, you may catch Wanda on the floor talking to salespeople or customers. Just a short drive from Fayetteville, the Cronic Chevrolet GMC, Cronic Nissan, and Cronic Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM are ready to help you purchase or service your vehicles. www.croniccars.com
Wanda Cronic Howell, President and Dealer at Cronic Automotive Group in Griffin
A Good Sense of Pride
I wanted to be a dental hygienist from the age of twelve. I took classes in high school that would prepare me for the science-filled courses in dental hygiene school and applied for the hygiene program at Harper College in Palatine, IL. Dentistry was my life, and I was good at it. I took pride in making people feel comfortable and being thorough, yet gentle when treating my patients.
But, after 13 years of clinical hygiene, I felt God was leading me in a different direction. I gave my 30-day notice to my boss and started praying, "OK, Lord, now what?" A colleague encouraged me to call a local dental management consulting firm and see if they were hiring, which I excitedly did. He said to me, "Well, I don't hire people, but I do contract with individuals. Do you have a corporation?" I didn't know what he was talking about but pushed on. Pathway Consulting, Inc., was created in 2001, and I am still its president today.
Going from being a paid employee who counted on those regular paychecks every two weeks to being a business owner was a major shift. It took months to get used to working from home and not turning on the TV at 10 a.m. I worked very hard, sometimes getting up at 4 a.m. to catch a 6:30 a.m. flight to a client in another state. Everything I did, everything I had, and everything I could buy depended on ME.
Taking pride in one's work is Biblical, as long as the work is done with a serving heart and a commitment to carrying one's own load. And here's the fun thing, all of the advertisers in this magazine are local business owners too. They all did exactly what I did. They stepped out with unwavering dedication and a healthy dose of moxie to turn an idea into a reality.
February is the perfect month to celebrate love, and here at Fayette County Lifestyle, we’re all about showing love to the people who make our community such a special place - the local business owners. These brave folks pour their lives into creating the vibrant, welcoming community we’re lucky to call home.
Let's love on our local business owners and shop with them as much as possible. Hope to bump into you around town!
Blessings to you all,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Conforti | jennifer.conforti@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Byron Pugh | byron.pugh@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Emily Duggan | emily.duggan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Pam Reid, Pauli Reep, Sydney Kate Lewis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
South Atlanta Photography
JENNIFER CONFORTI, PUBLISHER @FAYETTECOUNTYLIFESTYLE
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
FAYETTE’S LEADING Obstetrics & Gynecology Practice
Comprehensive, Compassionate Health Care for Women of All Ages
• Prenatal Care
• Family Planning
• In-Office Surgical Procedures
• Fertility Treatment
• High-Risk Pregnancies
• Gynecological/Urogynecological Surgery
Marlo Carter, M.D. OB/GYN
Matthew Ralsten, M.D. OB/GYN
Nicole E. Quinn, M.D. OB/GYN Nykia Burke-Bray, M.D. OB/GYN
William T. Cook, M.D. Gynecologist
Sarah G. White, D.O. OB/GYN
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Santa, lakeside in Trilith, gave gifts and hugs to Joseph Sams School students. 2: The Army Aviation Heritage Foundation flew Santa in the Huey to Trilith. What a treat! 3: Kimberly Airhart, founder of Harts of Teal, with her family at their Shining Lights fundraiser. 4: Folks raised funds for ovarian cancer education at the Harts of Teal Shining Light event. 5: Local schools' teams, bands and troops were well represented at the Fayetteville Christmas Parade. 6: The Fayetteville Arts District folks walked in the parade as well! 7: Peachtree City hosted Hometown Holiday at Drake Field!
JAY TILLES PHOTOGRAPHY
MAIN STREET FAYETTEVILLE
JENNIFER CONFORTI
JESSICA KALLENBACH, BEAUTY UNVEILED STUDIOS
MAIN STREET FAYETTEVILLE
JESSICA KALLENBACH, BEAUTY UNVEILED STUDIOS
8: Families found many entertaining activities at PTC Hometown Holiday! 9: Santa was in attendance at the annual Candy Cane Hunt at Kiwanis Park! 10: Volunteers and attendees raised funds for Fayette Humane Society at their annual Christmas Tour of Homes. 11: Cancer survivor Julianna Ferrone and Dr. Godbee represented City of Hope at the Rose Parade! 12: The AVPride board celebrated at their Holiday Happy Hour fundraiser. 13: The community raised funds for AVPride where they cultivate leadership in today's youth. 14: Photo from 2024 Wade Wheeler Memorial Shoot benefiting Healing Bridge Clinic. See "Events" for 2025 info!
JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY
PEACHTREE CITY RECREATION
FAYETTE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION
CITY OF HOPE ATLANTA
JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY
HEALING BRIDGE CLINIC
JENNIFER CONFORTI
Your Community Credit Union
As the first locally based credit union in Fayette County, The Southern takes pride in offering personal banking and hometown service since 1963. We believe in providing financial solutions that empower our members to achieve their goals. Home ownership is not only possible, but also affordable with lending solutions from The Southern. If you’re a first time home buyer, learn more about Preparing to Buy a Home by scanning the QR code below. Our Mortgage team is available at our Fayetteville branch to discuss available mortgage, refinance and home equity options. So, if you already own your home, there may be equity available for renovations, debt consolidation, or your next big purchase. Let us help you find out!
We can’t wait to meet you.
For more information about membership, products, or services available at The Southern, stop by any of our Fayette County branch locations, or visit us online at southernonline.org . Pictured at our Fayetteville Branch is our VP of Mortgage Lending, James Richards. Membership open to anyone LIVING or WORKING in Fayette County.
430 E Lanier Avenue
Lobby Hours: M-F 9 AM - 4 PM
Drive-Thru: M-F 8:30 AM - 5 PM Sat 9 AM - 12 PM
1400 Commerce Drive
Lobby Hours: M-F 9 AM - 4 PM
Drive-Thru: M-F 8:30 AM - 5 PM
FAYETTEVILLE BRANCH
PEACHTREE CITY BRANCH
business monthly
Healing Bridge Clinic Honored with 2024 Nonprofit Award of Excellence
The Healing Bridge Clinic has been honored with the 2024 Piedmont Fayette Hospital, Nonprofit Award of Excellence. A recent renovation has significantly expanded the clinic’s capacity to serve uninsured residents of the community, doubling or even tripling its previous capabilities. “We are incredibly honored to receive the Piedmont Fayette Nonprofit Award of Excellence,” said Mike Conaway, Executive Director. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and donors."
Special Veterans Cruise to Normandy
Join Mandy Pullin of DPP Travel on an unforgettable experience in France this summer. This cruise will be filled with specially curated events and activities, including visits to historical landmarks, exclusive shore excursions for our group, and opportunities to connect with veterans on a deeper level. Special discounts and exclusive events are available for our veteran travelers. For more information about this once-in-a-lifetime experience, go to ddptravel.com or call Mandy at 770-262-2312.
Art with a Heart 2025 - A Valentine's Day Gala
Fine Arts & Crafts Entrepreneurs (FAACE) presents Art with a Heart, a captivating and intimate Valentine’s experience at the newly renovated Loft at Due South! Whether you’re celebrating a Valentine's Evening with your significant other or a Galentine's Girl's Night Out, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Art, live music, exquisite dinner, and crafted cocktails designed to set the mood for a perfect Valentine's celebration. For more information and tickets visit faace.org
Photography by Healing Bridge Clinic
The Embodiment of Sisterhood
Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. is committed to social action, advocacy, service, and empowering communities.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, established in 1913 by 22 collegiate women at Howard University, has been a cornerstone of academic excellence, public service, and social action for over a century. With a mission focused on the constructive development of its members and public service, Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. continues to leave an indelible mark through its unwavering commitment to service and sisterhood.
Cheryl Brown, a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. for 44 years and the President of the newly chartered Fayette County Alumnae Chapter, embodies the essence of leadership and service. Cheryl joined Delta Sigma Theta in 1980 as an undergraduate at what is now Clark Atlanta University. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Because of my affiliation and association with this organization, I believe I’ve made the lives of so many people better through the programs and opportunities we have.”
The Fayette County Alumnae Chapter was officially chartered on April 27, 2024, with a clear focus: to serve the entire community. Cheryl emphasizes, “The needs of the county have grown, and to have a chapter solely committed to enhancing the lives of the citizens where we live, work, educate, and raise our families is a tremendous opportunity.”
Delta Sigma Theta Inc.’s mission is driven by the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, which guides all its community initiatives:
ARTICLE BY PAM REID PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
1. Economic Development: Empowering the community with financial literacy through webinars and seminars, as well as promoting women-owned businesses in the community. Upcoming initiatives include Retirement Planning 101, a seminar scheduled for February 1st, offering strategies across generations for financial stability, and key concepts for retirement planning.
2. Educational Development: Youth-focused programs such as Delta Gems (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully for ages 14-18; a Delta Academy for ages 11-14; and EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) encourage academic achievement, goal-setting, and leadership development.
3. International Awareness and Involvement: From global initiatives in South Africa, Kenya, and Haiti to local efforts like their recent World AIDS Day webinar and “Dining with the Deltas” fundraiser, the chapter provides financial support while remaining globally and locally connected.
“Delta Dears” packing fruit baskets and Christmas gifts at the Fayette Senior Center
4. Physical and Mental Health: Promoting holistic wellness through initiatives like virtual healthy cooking classes and workshops focused on encouraging a healthy lifestyle for the total woman – mind, body, and spirit.
5. Political Awareness and Involvement: Through voter registration drives, education on public policy, and non-partisan initiatives like Stroll to the Polls, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority empowers communities to engage actively in the democratic process.
With a calendar full of service opportunities, the Fayette County Alumnae Chapter has already partnered with Toys for Tots, the Fayette Senior Center, and Bloom. Scholarships are another cornerstone of their impact. Applications for the 2025 academic year are already available for high school seniors in Fayette County. The
deadline for submission is March 3rd. Funds raised by the chapter directly support programming and scholarships, ensuring resources flow back into the community.
Cheryl Brown hopes to inspire future generations by demonstrating the importance of serving others. “What you do for others, outside of yourself, is how you make the greatest impact,” she shares. Fayette County’s evolving needs have amplified the importance of having a dedicated chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., working tirelessly to uplift and inspire.
For those considering membership in a Greek-letter organization, Cheryl offers sage advice: “Do your research. Find out what the organization is about and see if its mission, goals, and activities resonate with you. Membership is about more than wearing certain colors; it’s about how you want to be in the world we live in.”
To learn more visit www.deltasigmatheta.org and follow on social media: Facebook @Fayette County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Instagram @DSTFCAC.
Sorors Janice Massenburg and Duane Lee supporting the World Aids Day Fundraiser the Fayette County Alumnae Chapter sponsored
Amaris Johnson and President, Cheryl Brown
THREADS of Hope
The 70273 Project teaches the value of life and the importance of building inclusive communities.
ARTICLE BY PAM REID | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
the Southeastern
and
From
Quilt
Textile Museum exhibit with center quilt made by Sarah Circle group from Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran Church in PTC
Jeanne Hewell-Chambers and Peggy Thomas
In a world striving for inclusivity, grassroots movements like The 70273 Project remind us of humanity’s capacity for both cruelty and compassion. Between 1940 and 1941, the Nazis targeted people with disabilities. These individuals, some in institutions and some identified at birth, were selected through a simple process: a one-page form listing their mental or physical conditions was reviewed by three Nazi doctors. If two of the doctors marked the form with the red “X”, the patient was considered “X-ed out.” The victims never met these doctors; their lives were reduced to two Xs on a single sheet of paper.
Fast forward to 2016, when Jeanne HewellChambers, a fabric artist, quilter, and storyteller, turned her sorrow and compassion into action. She was inspired by her sister-in-law Nancy who has a severe intellectual disability, and a WWII documentary about Aktion T4 - a secret Nazi program that targeted those deemed “unworthy of life.” The name “T4” comes from the program’s headquarters at Tiergartenstraße 4 in Berlin. Emboldened by these horrific events, Jeanne launched The 70273 Project on her birthday, February 14th. She envisioned commemorating each life lost through a quilt block: a white or cream fabric background symbolizing the Nazi form, adorned with two red “X”s to represent one victim.
A GLOBAL TRIBUTE
Peggy Thomas is the current Board Chair of The 70273 Project. “Within three years, The 70273 Project had received 70,273 blocks from volunteers in 144 countries.” Each block has been meticulously documented, ensuring the names of contributors and the origins of their creations are preserved. “Today, 900 quilts have been assigned numbers, with 494 completed and ready for exhibit, while 172 are in progress.”
The project’s mission goes beyond commemorating those lost; it actively advocates for people with disabilities. Peggy’s personal connection fuels her passion: “My son Kevin, who is autistic, would have been among those given two red “X”s.”
QUILTING A LEGACY
The process of creating these quilts is a community effort. Peggy hosts “bundling parties” to sort blocks into manageable groups, which are then sent to volunteer quilters. The organization keeps an extensive database—affectionately called “Missus”—to track every block’s origin and journey. Data Angels, volunteers from Argentina, Canada, Australia, and the United States, ensure the database remains current. The organization has no paid staff.
Middling with Hearts quilt
Peggy Thomas with the Rochester banner
“Creating a world where everyone is welcomed and included regardless of ability” remains its guiding principle.
Today, 600 quilts are stored in the old Tyrone Elementary School. Exhibits showcasing quilts have taken place worldwide, sharing the project’s story and sparking conversations about history, humanity, and inclusion. During one such exhibit in Celle, Germany, a woman approached Peggy’s booth several times before revealing that her uncle had been killed under the Nazi program. These moments highlight the enduring relevance and impact of the project.
LOOKING AHEAD: THE GREAT GATHERING
The project’s ambitious next step is “The Great Gathering,” a massive exhibition scheduled for 2026 in Trilith. This event will showcase all completed quilts, commemorating the 70,273 lives lost and demonstrating the power of collective memory. Sponsorships will be integral to the success of The Great Gathering. Peggy is happy that, “After the event, quilts will be adopted by the makers, or by schools or museums to put on display to continue to tell the story.”
A CALL TO ACTION
The 70273 Project’s mission is as much about the present as the past. “Creating a world where everyone is welcomed and included regardless of ability” remains its guiding principle. As Peggy emphasizes, sharing these stories is crucial to ensuring such atrocities are never repeated. To support the project, whether by volunteering or donating financially, reach out to Peggy Thomas at peggy@the70273project org.
THE 70273 PROJECT NEEDS:
1. Volunteer quilters
2. Administrative volunteers
3. Financial support for operations
4. Sponsorships for the 2026 event: The Great Gathering
What began as a heartfelt call to action, quickly became a global movement. Let us remember, honor, and act so that one of history’s darkest chapters is never forgotten and its lessons never ignored.
Quilts and pelmets at Rochester Cathedral in the U.K.
For 20 years, J. Andrew’s Bridal has been styling brides with a commitment to staying on the cutting edge of bridal fashion. We understand that every bride has a unique vision for her wedding day, and we’re here to support every dream—from the timeless elegance of white to the bold sophistication of black. Whether your style is classic, modern, or daringly unconventional, we celebrate your individuality and are dedicated to helping you find the perfect gown to bring your vision to life. At J. Andrew’s Bridal, your dream is our priority!
Unveiling a bold look for brides who want to make a statement! The Onyx Romance Trunk Show at J. Andrew’s Bridal, February 7th–16th featuring a collection of black wedding gowns perfect for the dramatic fall bride!
Appointments are limited—book yours today on our website
Where: J. Andrew's Bridal, Peachtree City, GA When: February 7–16, 2025 Reserve Your Spot: jandrewsbridal.com
We will have events for every month of the year to celebrate our big 20th anniversary. Visit our website for event details.
Savor the Love
INDIVIDUAL BEEF WELLINGTONS WILL BRING THE FANCY TO YOUR TABLE WITHOUT THE FUSS.
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Elevate your romantic dinner for two with these easy individual beef Wellingtons. Perfectly portioned and irresistibly flaky, these gourmet delights feature tender beef, savory mushrooms, and golden puff pastry. Ideal for impressing your special someone without the stress, this recipe combines elegance with simplicity. Read on to discover how to create this timeless classic in your own kitchen. Pair it with a jammy Zinfandel and enjoy!
Serves: 2
Ingredients
• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry
• 8 ounces beef tenderloin, 2 medallions
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
• 1/2-pound button mushrooms, chopped fine
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 glove of garlic, minced
• 1 egg beaten for wash
Instructions:
Thaw the pastry in the refrigerator. It should unfold without breaking. A few minutes at room temperature may be needed. Pinch the seams and roll the pastry a bit thinner. Return to refrigerator. Heat butter and oil in a saucepan, add mushrooms and garlic, and sauté until mixture is dry. Set aside to cool
Generously salt and pepper tenderloin pieces on both sides. Heat a skillet with olive oil to nearly smoking. Add tenderloin and sear to a good dark color, but the meat should still be cold and rare in the center.
Remove the pastry from the refrigerator. Divide in half and cut the pastry into large ovals and save leftover pastry to cut out designs for the top of the packages. On one half spread dry spinach in an area slightly larger than the meat medallion.
Put a portion of mushrooms on the spinach. Place the meat in the center and add another portion of mushrooms. Fold the pastry to the center on all sides to form a package. Turn the packages seam side down onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush egg wash all over the pastry. Cover and place in freezer for at least one hour.
DO NOT THAW BEFORE BAKING
To Bake:
Brush again with egg wash.
Place in a 400-degree oven on a lightly greased baking sheet with sides. Bake for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 and bake about 35-40 minutes. Check internal temp for desired doneness (120 degrees for rare). The beef will continue to cook, so rest no longer than 10 minutes.
INDIVIDUAL BEEF WELLINGTONS
love of FOR BRIDAL
Morgan Roberson dazzles in the showstopping Style Noel, a masterpiece of bridal design featuring an intricate lace bodice and voluminous organza skirt. FASHION
Celebrate love, legacy, and elegance at J. Andrew’s Bridal.
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTH ATLANTA PHOTOGRAPHY
For the past twenty years, J. Andrew’s Bridal has transformed countless women into stunning brides by helping them in their quest for the perfect gown. The store, founded in 2005, transitioned owners in 2023 when Sarah Heath, who joined the J. Andrew’s team in 2008 as a manager, took over the business.
After fifteen years of witnessing the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of such a meaningful moment, Sarah was inspired by her deep passion for helping women during one of the happiest and most celebrated times of their lives. J. Andrew’s legacy of creating a space for brides and bridal parties to feel beautiful, confident, and celebrated continues under Sarah’s leadership, along with her vision to introduce fresh ideas that elevate the experience for today’s brides. “By staying true to our roots while embracing innovation, I’m committed to ensuring J. Andrew’s Bridal remains a destination where brides, maids, and mothers feel truly extraordinary.”
With curated collections that blend timeless elegance and modern trends—such as their Wisdom + Willow brand collection, designed to also support local charities—J. Andrew’s exceeds expectations in more ways than one. The bridal shop’s collaborative and creative team dedicates itself to “creating magical and memorable experiences” for all clients by celebrating their brides in unforgettable ways.
Similarly, Sarah is expanding and enhancing the Mother of the Bride and Groom collection to ensure every woman in the wedding feels celebrated. With stunning selections for brides, maids, and mothers alike, she says, “We take pride in being experts at helping them look and feel amazing on such an important day.”
To stay ahead of evolving client expectations, Sarah explains, “We stay on the cutting edge, always learning and growing.” Her team actively participates in various bridal organizations, attends industry events like the Wedding MBA and Speak Bride University, frequents bridal markets in Chicago and Atlanta, and follows wedding trendsetters closely. This ensures J. Andrew’s offers the freshest styles, anticipating and exceeding brides’ expectations.
Timeless styles, such as the basque waist trend, are currently in high demand. However, beyond specific dress cuts, the feeling that brides seek in
FASHION FORWARD | STYLE + BEAUTY
Owner of J Andrew's Bridal, Sarah Heath
Val Almanza is stunning in the ethereal Style Nyx, crafted from luxurious silk in a dreamy blush hue.
Lisa Kelly looks sensational in this Alexander by Daymor mother of the bride gown.
a dress transcends any look. “What brides really want is to feel confident and authentically themselves,” Sarah says. “That’s why it’s so important to be intentional about who you bring with you to shop for your gown. Surround yourself with people who are supportive, who respect your vision, and who celebrate your choice.”
While shopping for a dress often enhances the joyful moments of a bride’s life, it can also evoke emotional heaviness. Body image struggles or the loss of loved ones may surface during the process. “We hold space for these deep emotions,” Sarah shares. “While it can be emotionally draining, it’s also incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing a bride or client move through those moments, feel supported, and ultimately come out the other side feeling truly taken care of.” Because of this, J. Andrew’s is more than just a bridal shop—it’s a collection of life’s most beautiful moments. It plays a role in the love
stories women dream about, rooted in creating cherished memories by celebrating women for who they are and whom they love.
One of Sarah’s most memorable highlights at J. Andrew’s occurred in 2008 when she assisted one of her first brides, a young woman named Julie. Sarah discovered that she and Julie shared the same wedding date. The two developed a close bond during Julie’s bridal journey, and Julie even invited Sarah to her wedding. “The connection we built during her time at J. Andrew’s really sealed my love for brides and this incredible role I get to play in their lives. Seeing Julie walk down the aisle in the dress I hand-selected for her was pure magic,” Sarah recalls. “Moments like that remind me why I’m so passionate about what we do.”
For brides looking to find their dream dress, follow J. Andrew’s Bridal on social media or visit www.jandrewsbridal.com to explore their offerings and discover the latest trends.
Michelle McAllister, BSN RN & Owner
Mitchell McAllister, Operations Manager & Owner
Revolutionizing Pain Relief
The Intracept Procedure offers new hope to those suffering chronic low back pain.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER XIONG, MD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Millions of Americans suffer from chronic low back pain, making even the most basic of everyday activities challenging and frustrating. For those who have tried treatments like physical therapy, medications, injections, or even surgery without lasting relief, there is an innovative new option that I am excited to be able to offer my patients: the Intracept Procedure.
The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed for people with a specific type of low back pain called vertebrogenic pain. People who experience vertebrogenic pain often describe their pain as being in the middle of their lower back with pain made worse with activities like prolonged sitting, bending forward, or lifting. It is often caused by degenerative changes along the endplates of the bones of our spine, known as the vertebrae, due to normal wear and tear of everyday life. The pain is transmitted by a nerve inside the vertebrae called the basivertebral nerve, which carries pain signals to the brain when the bone is irritated or damaged.
The Intracept Procedure involves heating the basivertebral nerve with a small radiofrequency probe to disrupt the vertebrogenic pain signals being sent to the brain. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, long-lasting, and all done on an outpatient basis with a brief recovery period. Unlike some major surgeries, the procedure is implantfree and still preserves the overall structure of the spine. Numerous research studies have shown the Intracept Procedure to be an effective and reliable treatment for vertebrogenic low back pain.
The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed for people with a specific type of low back pain called vertebrogenic pain.
For those who are still struggling with chronic low back pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments, I recommend talking to a pain specialist trained and certified to provide the Intracept Procedure to see if this cutting-edge therapy might be right for you.
For more information on The Intracept Procedure or to schedule an appointment, visit www.regenerativespines.com or call 404-618-0995.
Jennifer Xiong, MD
FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH
Your heart matters. Protect your health beyond February!
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Use the money to pay medical bills, mortgage, utilities, anything you need, ensuring peace of mind and security!
WOULD YOU LIKE A PICKLE?
www.benetrendpartners.com | 770.719.1717
Email kathy@benetrendpartners.com for more info!
FEBRUARY 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 9TH
Yoga Teacher Training Info Session with Jenn Dufour
The Yoga Lounge, 308 Clover Reach, PTC | 12:00 PM
Become a certified Yoga Teacher! Enjoy a sample yoga class followed by a short info session and Q&A to learn all about our Yoga Alliance Certified 200-hour teacher training program beginning in Oct 2025, led by The Yoga Lounge owner and Master Instructor, Jenn Dufour. For more info, call The Yoga Lounge at 770-703-2275.
FEBRUARY 14TH
"Love Is In The Air" - A Big Band Benefit Concert!
McIntosh High School Auditorium | 6:00 PM
Silent auction and concessions start at 6 PM. Concert at 7 PM with the McIntosh High School Jazz Band opening the evening, and then headlining the night is The Peachtree Jazz Edition with a concert of Big Band Hits! Adults - $15 / Students - $10. All proceeds support the MHS Bands. Tickets and info at www.mcintoshbandboosters.ludus.com.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Art with a Heart 2025 - A Valentine's Day Gala
Due South, 302 Clover Reach, PTC | 6:00 PM
FAACE presents Art with a Heart, a captivating and intimate Valentine’s experience. Whether you’re celebrating a Valentine's evening with your significant other or a Galentine's Girl's Night Out, this is a night out you won’t want to miss! Art, live music, exquisite dinner, and crafted cocktails designed to set the mood for a perfect Valentine's celebration. RSVP at www.faace.org
CONTINUED
YOUR OASIS AWAITS
FEBRUARY 15TH
Seventh Annual Run the Ridge 5K
The Ridge Nature Area, 390 Burch Road, Fayetteville | 8:00 AM
Enjoy a run through the beautiful scenery that Fayetteville has to offer! The trail is mostly flat and gentle, following the outside perimeter of the park and the banks of Gingercake Creek and Whitewater Creek. You can expect a few hills but gentle, non-technical trails. This is a great course for a beginning trail runner. Visit www.sctlandtrust.org for more info.
FEBRUARY 15TH
Father-Daughter Dance
Kedron Fieldhouse, 202 Kedron Dr, PTC | 5:00 PM
Dine, dance, and enjoy an evening of fun. Girls ages 6 through 12 are invited with their dads or a special male role model in their life. Registration starts January 10th. For more info visit www.peachtree-city.org/recreation
FEBRUARY 22ND
Charity Shoot Benefiting Healing Bridge Clinic & Reece Center
Big Red Oak Plantation, 8428 Greenville St, Gay, Georgia | 8:00 AM
This exciting event will feature sporting clay teams, tower shoot teams, and individual participants. The day will begin with a delicious breakfast provided by Chick-Fil-A, followed by lunch from The Beirut and dinner from The Curious Pig. To cap off the day, a cocktail celebration and prize ceremony will be held. To register or for more information, please visit www.healingbridgeclinic.org/events.
We treat you as a individual, providing personalized vein treatment plans based on your symptoms and the results of our highly detailed diagnostic testing.
FIND RELIEF FROM:
• Varicose Veins
• Spider Veins
• Leg Swelling
• Tired, Achy Legs
• Heaviness or Fatigue
• Restless Legs at Night
• Skin Changes
• Stasis Dermatitis
• Pain in Legs during Menstruation
• Vaginal Varicosities
• Hemorrhoids
+ Award Winning Diagnostic Testing
+ Nationally Known Experts in Vein Care
+ Patient-Centered Approach
It’s a New Year and high time to stop suffering. Call us at (678) 833-1444 Today! Get Screened and Give Back! Don’t
