South Fulton April 2015 by City Lifestyle

South Fulton APRIL 2015

SouthFultonLifestyle.com

™

Backstage

Pass:

take a behind the scenes tour of the chick-fil-a home office

ESTABLISH A GREEN ROUTINE FOR YOUR FAMILY GET INTO NATURE AT THE OUTDOOR ACTIVITY CENTER ROAD TRIP TO THE EMERALD WATERS OF SANDESTIN

come enjoy our

S OU T H E R N HOSPI TA L I T Y Go behind the scenes and experience Atlanta’s best kept secret, the

Chick-fil-A Home Office ®

Backstage Tour! Learn the history, vision and values that have shaped the company, and expect a few fun surprises along the way! Tour options also include visits to Chick-fil-A’s innovation facilities and Q&A time with

Chick-fil-A leadership.

We invite you to make your reservation today! For more information, including tour schedule and registration, visit tours.chick-fil-a.com. Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

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Powering everyday value

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FARMERS® CAN HELP PROTECT YOU THROUGH EVERY STAGE

NEWLYWED

CAREER LAUNCH

EMPTY NESTER

NEW PARENT

RETIREE

Editor’s Letter

Hello, Spring.

APRIL 2015

Green is my favorite color.

publisher

It’s a crisp, tart Granny Smith apple. It’s a symbol of growth and new beginnings when a plant sprouts. It’s a grassy field as you enjoy the Renaissance Fair or the veggies at the farmers market at Serenbe. It’s Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream on a warm day. In this “Green” issue, the color represents the lush urban forests of the Outdoor Activity Center, a remarkable place right in our community where families can enjoy themselves and even camp out. The color represents recycling, making our environment better, taking care of this planet, and spreading awareness of all of these on Earth Day. Let’s take a road trip to one of the most beautiful beaches this country has to offer, where blended emerald and turquoise waters lie just off the sandy white shore. Green is the color of money; Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy made plenty and still managed to keep his faith and values intact. If you are in need of more green for your business, you should ask yourself, “Why not advertise with my neighbors at South Fulton Lifestyle?”

Shaheedah Hill | SHill@LifestylePubs.com

editor Erikka Mitchell | EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Rotricia Rachelle Coley, Tamiko Corbin, Na’Taki Osbourne Jelks, Regina Mincey, Cicily Newby, Kendra Pierson, Kim Walker

contributing photographers Tiffany Powell, R. Clark Images, Kristy Michelle

Published monthly, subscriptions are: 1 year for $22 or 2 years for $39. Visit SouthFultonLifestyle.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

Spring has sprung! Enjoy!

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

Do you know about some good things happening in South Fulton? Please email emitchell@lifestylepubs.com and let us know!

by Community ™

| SouthFultonLifestyle.com | ON THE COVER Juliet Hall and Dan Cathy at

the Home Office of the Chick-fil-A corporation. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANY POWELL

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 South Fulton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of South Fulton’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 South Fulton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

April 2015

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Star Student

Family Feature

Terrific Teacher

Locally Owned

20 Road Trip 21

Financial Fitness

Sold Properties

16 Chick-fil-A Backstage Tour

Lifestyle Calendar

Go behind the scenes at one of our areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s corporate treasures.

Parting Thoughts

Learn about earth-friendly activities and lots opportunities

18 WAWA and Outdoor Activity Center

to get outside.

20 Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Go to the Beach

Road trip to the emerald and turquoise waters of Sandestin.

20 Lifestyle Publications

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Good Times

Reception and Book Signing

Ambassador Andrew Young introduced author/congressman James E. Clyburn who signed copies of his book, Blessed Experiences: Genuinely Southern, Proudly Black, at the Commerce Club. Attendees included Congressman Sanford Bishop, APS Board Chair Courtney English and Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell. PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTY MICHELLE

Members of the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter’s Literary Guild and Family Strengthening Committee also hosted.

Congressman James Clyburn and wife, Emily, with NLO President Dr. Dawn Beatrice Griffin.

City Council President Caesar Mitchell and Dr. Dawn Griffin

Spelman College Class of 1974 Wine Tasting

The annual scholarship fundraiser featured fine wines, gourmet food and decadent chocolates. The Spelman College Jazz Ensemble performed, and an Art Exhibit showcased the work of Phyllis Stephens, Grace Kisa, Maurice Evans and Raymond Cody.

The featured artists

Spelman Jazz Ensemble member

Class of 1974 Wine Tasting committee with scholarship recipient Taylor Harreld

SERVICE FOR Airport Transportation • Corporate Accounts Sporting Events, Concerts, or a Night on the Town Theatre • Weddings Bachelor or Bachelorette Parties

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South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

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FIND OUT WHY ARLINGTON is a

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FULTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business Opportunites (Bids, Quotes, and RFPs) for Fulton County Government can be viewed and downloaded

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

at no charge by logging onto the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official website,

www.fultoncountyga.gov and clicking on Bid Opportunities.

EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION SINCE 1959

To register as a Fulton County vendor in the Vendor Self Service (VSS), log on at

www.fultonvendorselfservice.co.fulton.ga.us Vendor Training Workshops are held monthly. To review

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a complete schedule and to register for workshops visit our website. There is no cost for training. To become certified as a Minority/Female Business Enterprise (MFBE) with the Office of Contract Compliance, vendors can complete the online certification application at

www.occfultoncountyga.com or contact the Office of Contract Compliance at 404-612-6300.

For additional information, please contact us at 404-612-5800. April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Around Town

Davy Tax Group LLC

MAKE LIFE less taxing Get help today from an Enrolled Agent who believes that no one should suffer from unresolved tax problems. We focus on solutions for unfiled taxes and tax debt. Call to be guided on the path to relief. Ayikaile Davy, EA | 404-271-9974 ayikaile@davytaxgroup.com davytaxgroup.com

CASCADE CORRIDOR SPRING CLEAN The Inaugural Cascade Corridor Spring Clean Event, co-sponsored by the Cascade Business & Merchants Association & The Cascade Corridor Enhancement Coalition on Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 9am to 12 pm to celebrate Arbor Day. The target areas for trash pick-up are adjacent to the 1-285 Cascade exits and the surrounding Cascade Corridor. The Cascade Corridor Enhancement Coalition strives to improve and maintain the safety and physical environment of the area to assure the retention of businesses and desired economic growth to augment the value of our community. This will launch a major anti-littering publicity campaign to seeking neighbors to participate in the clean up initiative. The goal is to engage community organizations to adopt a segment of Cascade Street to maintain, hopefully reduce the amount of littering through education. All residents, neighborhood organizations, and businesses in the Cascade community are urged to participate in the Neighborhood Spring Clean event. The event will kick-off at the Publix parking lot, 3695 Cascade Rd SW, Cascade Crossing, Atlanta, GA 30331-2173. The event will culminate at the end of the project with refreshments and music. To volunteer and for more information, please contact Germaine W. Covington, Chair of Arbor Day Cleanup Committee at 404.254.5122 or cascadenhancement@gmail.com or Bobbie Powell, President Cascade Business and Merchants Association at 404.593.1551 or info@ cascadebusinessandmerchantsassociation.com.

TRI-CITIES HIGH MAGNET PROGRAM PRESENTS SPRING PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Dan A. Sims, Principal and Zoie Sykes, Magnet Director are please to announce the following performances at the Viola Turner Theater, 2575 Harris St. East Point, GA 30344. For additional information, please call 404.669.8010. Chamber Orchestra Concert April 15 7 pm Chorus Talent Show April 17 7 pm Gospel Concert April 23 7pm Spring Dance Concert April 25-26 7 pm Jazz A La Mode in the TCHS Commons April 26 at 4pm

PINK PEARL LUNCHEON FUNDS SCHOLARSHIPS

for students who need an academic boost this summer • Tutoring in Reading, Math and Writing Skills • Afternoon Recreational Activities • 2 Sessions of 2 Weeks Each • Held on the Campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn

5665 Milam Road Fairburn, GA 30213

770-774-8001 • thebedfordschool.org 10

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

The Pearls of Purpose Foundation, established by the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® presents the 28th Annual Pink Pearl Mother Daughter Luncheon. The 2015 theme is “Epic Firsts…Women Who Have Launched New Dimensions.” The luncheon will take place on Saturday, April 25, at 12 p.m. at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, 265 Peachtree Center Avenue, Atlanta 30303. Donation: $65 adults, $35 children under 12. The luncheon proceeds provide scholarships for Metropolitan Atlanta area high school seniors pursuing higher education. The event leadership includes Dr. Dawn Beatrice Griffin, president; Dr. Jessalyn Askew, event chairman and Mrs. Marva Simpson, event vice-chairman.

Star Student

Preparing Students to Compete in a Global Economy. We Offer: *

Our Students: *

Caleb Cherry, Scholar and Equestrian

e are delighted to feature Caleb Cherry in this month’s issue. Caleb is an 8th grader at Fulton Leadership Academy, an all-male charter school located in East Point, Georgia. Like many of the scholars at his school, Caleb intends to set new standards. He excels in all honors courses and is a member of the school’s band and chess clubs. He has recently become a member of the Atlanta Regional Polo Center, after having ridden in Ellenwood for four years. While still enjoying his life now, Caleb looks forward to being a part of the 5th generation in his family to attend an HBCU. He is a member of Impact Church and a teen in the Atlanta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. According to Caleb, “Balancing all my activities does not stress me out. I enjoy everything I do.” Caleb is proudly supported by his mother, Aletha R. Cherry, his sister, Nandi and adoring relatives from Warner Robins, Memphis, New York, Cleveland, and the Philadelphia area. April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Family Feature

Introducing The Jelks Family liance, and the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., in which she served for the last four years as chair of the chapter’s Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability Initiative. What is the best part about living or working in South Fulton?

The best part of living near and working in South Fulton is the sense of community that exists and the growing level of engagement that residents have in improving the quality of life in our communities. We also love the proximity to beautiful parks and green spaces for nature exploration and family-friendly activities, and the growth of cultural institutions, cultural events, and entertainment venues like plays at the Southwest Performing Arts Center and concerts at the Wolf Creek Amphitheater. What is your family’s favorite way to spend free time?

Above all, we all love spending time together as a family, but we all each have our own favorite things to do. Hands down, K.J. loves to play outside, ride his bike, check out Southwest Atlanta and South Family members: Fulton Parks, and play on sports teams with Rev. Ken Jelks the Sandtown Youth Sports Association. Na’Taki Osborne Jelks In addition, Na’Taki recently authored a Kenyatta Jelks, Jr. (K.J). – age 5 book chapter, “Fostering Environmental Stewardship in Youth of Color through escribe your family in a few sentences.The Jelks family is the Urban Environment: Earth Tomorrow®”, relaying the grounded in faith, service to others, and engagement in success of the award winning Earth Tomorrow program in our community. After serving as an Associate Minister under the book, Connecting Children To Nature: Ideas And Activities the leadership of Dr. Cameron M. Alexander at the Antioch For Parents And Educators, published by Wood N Barnes PubBaptist Church North for nearly 10 years, Rev. Jelks was called lishers. Na’Taki loves to volunteer her time as board chair of to Pastor Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia, in the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, an organization that June 2013. Mt. Tabor has grown in membership, ministries, is working to grow a cleaner greener, healthier, and more susand community impact since the Jelks arrived. While the tainable West Atlanta. family spends a great deal of time in Columbus, they are still She has engaged Ken and K.J. in her volunteerism and WAfirmly planted in and around the South Fulton community. WA’s stewardship of over 355 acres of urban forests lands in K.J. is a kindergarten student at Osby Christian Academy Southwest Atlanta: the 26-acre Outdoor Activity Center in East Point, a School of Excellence, housed at the Word of (1442 Richland Rd. SW), the 135-acre Cascade Springs Nature Faith Love Center pastored by Dr. Reginald Garmon. Na’Ta- Preserve (2552 Cascade Rd. SW,), and the 200-acre Hampki teaches in the Environmental Science and Studies Program ton-Beecher Preserve (390 Willis Mill Rd.). Ken is a sports at her alma mater, Spelman College, is a Ph.D. candidate at lover who enjoys golf, and can be found coaching from the the Georgia State University School of Public Health, and is sidelines at K.J.’s games or fellowshipping at eateries in and active in organizations like the West Atlanta Watershed Al- around South Fulton with his preacher and pastor friends.

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

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Terrific Teacher

Dr. Valerie Camille Jones INNOVATIVE TEACHER INSPIRES HER STUDENTS TO EXCEL

r. Valerie Camille Jones has served as a mathematics specialist on the middle school level at Ron Clark Academy (RCA) on the south side of Atlanta since 2011. A National Board Certified math teacher, she has been in Atlanta intermittently since 1996 when she moved here to attend Spelman College. Jones taught at Crim High School for a few years. She went on to earn a master’s degree at Georgia State before moving to New York to matriculate at Columbia. Jones earned a Doctorate of Education at Teachers College and her dissertation was on the “The Effect of Computer Gaming on Student Motivation and Basic Multiplication Fluency.” Needless to say, Jones makes her classes exciting and engaging by incorporating video games, technology and movement. Jones coached students as they competed in the 2014 Math Counts video challenge on the middle school level. Her students created, edited and acted in an instructional video that connects real world situations with complicated math problems. After a rigorous process, of judging and voting from other students, RCA won the national contest. Each of the four students on the team won a $1,000 scholarship and a graphing calculator. In addition, Jones had the opportunity to

teach a course at the BETT conference in London instructing teachers on how to use a program called ClassFlow in their classrooms. She currently serves as a coach for the National Award-Winning Step Team at RCA. Additionally, she taught at the Summer Institute for Teach for America in Tulsa, Okla., and has taught online as an adjunct professor. She recently launched a website called Dr. Jones’ Math Corner for her tutoring business for K-12 students and SSAT Prep at DrVCJones.com. Jones is one of five finalists from the state of Georgia for The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation’s highest honors for teachers of mathematics and science, presented by the National Science Foundation. The winner will represent the best math teacher in our state at the White House. The honorees will spend a week in D. C. and will be recognized in a ceremony and visit with President Obama. Jones shares her teaching philosophy. “I take a personal stake in each student’s education,” she says. “I feel responsible for the intellectual, academic and social development of every student in my charge. I

show them that mistakes or failures are okay as long as you learn from your shortcomings. The subjects that I teach are viewed as unfathomable and enigmatic to my students. I seek to show them, by example, that through discipline, perseverance and practice they can excel at anything.” Stay tuned to our Facebook group to find out the results of the Presidential Awards. If you know a Terrific Teacher in South Fulton or Atlanta, please email emitchell@lifestylepubs.com.

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vonya Easley is the owner and CEO of Love E., an image consulting business, and she is available to help with all of your fashion and personal styling needs. She can help jumpstart your wardrobe, organize your closet, and select an outfit for a special occasion. Conveniently located in the Camp Creek Marketplace, Love E also offers personal concierge services. Easley also showcases a ready-to-wear clothing line she personally designed. In addition to visual merchandising, personal shopping based on the client’s lifestyle and producing fashion shows, Easley is the author of the Love E Guide To Style (A New Day, publisher). Her book helps women determine how to style what’s already in their closet, what items to purchase to compliment an existing wardrobe and highlights key pieces that every woman should have in her closet. The style guide is available for purchase at MKT.com/love-e. Easley share her style philosophy: “When I see a client closet it gives me a view of his or her personal style, how they have been dressing and what needs to be purged, tweaked, updated and changed. I compare styling to makeup. Makeup should enhance your natural beauty, play up your assets and minimize your flaws but not make you unrecognizable. I do the same but with clothes, shoes and accessories. I enhance your personal style with an objective, creative eye. I have researched body types and am trained in styles, trend forecasts and color tones. When you look good, you feel good and you have that extra boost of confidence to go and conquer whatever is in your path.” For more style tips and booking, please contact Easely at LoveEFashion.com or 404.908.7997.

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Truett Cathyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, including the wagon he used to sell cold Cokes as a kid, a budding entrepreneur.

Katie, a food scientist at work in the test kitchen.

Recycle, Repurpose: Chick-fil-A looks at the way the food is packaged and uses more biodegradable material. They even recycle their foam cups to create pens, nametags and crown molding. 16

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

Hometown Hospitality Chick-fil-A Home Office Backstage Tour

ARTICLE ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL | PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY POWELL

f you have not experienced the Chick-fil-A Home Office Backstage According to Juliet Hall, senior manager of Community AfTour, you are missing out on a gem nestled right in our community. fairs, Chick-fil-A, Inc. and director of external affairs, Chick-fil-A Just a few minutes from South Fulton Parkway and a few miles from Foundation, “The Chick-fil-A Home Office Backstage Tour is a Camp Creek Parkway, the Home Office sits on 80 acres of pristine way for us to share our story, values and corporate culture. We campus. It looks more like a park or a nature preserve than a corpo- provide behind-the-scenes access to our business. We welcome all rate office, complete with a cascading fountain and majestic pines. groups--business groups, school groups, kids and families--in adThroughout the tour, the visitors can see the vision of Founder dition to our loyal Chick-fil-A customers. Our goal is to make all Truett Cathy come to life and get a feel for the Southern hospital- of our guests feel like family.” ity of the Chick-fil-A corporate culture which is based on three A Spelman College graduate and a 15-year veteran with the simple principles: treat company, Hall wants others right, make smart to make sure that every decisions and maximize citizen of South Atlanta your potential. and South Fulton County The Original Tour is along with all Atlantans free, and visitors are reand their guests have the quired to make a reservachance to experience extion to see replicas of Truactly what makes Chickett’s first restaurant, which fil-A special. was located in Hapeville. “Our goal is to host They can also see memmore than 25,000 visitors orabilia from the first this year,” she says. “IndiChick-fil-A restaurant, viduals and large groups which opened in Greenare welcome to visit our briar Mall in south Atlanta corporate campus and in the 1960s. In addition to enjoy the experience.” hands-on exhibits and imCritics questioned the mersive experiences, there founder’s decision to close is an impressive collection his restaurants on Sunday Juliet Hall, Senior Manager of Community Affairs of antique cars. to allow time for his emIf you decide on the Deluxe Backstage Tour for only $15, you ployees to rest and spend time with their families. They said that will be whisked away to the test kitchens where food scientists he’d be missing opportunities to increase revenue. Hall says, “Trudevelop new menu items, sometimes spending years getting the ett often said he put people before profits--and he truly did.” recipes perfect before they are offered in restaurants. Visitors can The reality is that Chick-fil-A recently became the most also taste Chick-fil-A food items with this version of the tour. On popular quick-service chicken restaurant, earning more in six the Deluxe Tour, visitors can also experience the Treehouse, the days a week than competitors do in seven. Truett was delibernickname for Truett Cathy’s office. ate, not only in his commitment to his principles, but also in When I visited, they were testing Frozen Lemonade, a delec- his commitment to provide a high quality product and serve table treat that will help us cool off this summer. I felt like I was the south side of Atlanta well. visiting the Cathy home on my tour. I got to meet Dan Cathy, There is so much warmth in the way that the employees president and chief operating officer of Chick-fil-A, who also has in the restaurant a vision for the company. greet each of their Reservations are required for the Chick“When people visit Atlanta, we not only want them to think of guests. The atfil-A Home Office Backstage Tour. To CNN or the World of Coke, we also want them to think of Chick- mosphere of the schedule your tour and for more inforfil-A,” he says. “We want bus loads of visitors coming to visit our Backstage Tour is mation, visit Tours.Chick-fil-A.com. campus each day.” no exception. April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

The Forest

in Our Backyard Exploring West Atlanta Watershed Alliance (WAWA) and Outdoor Activity Center ARTICLE NA’TAKI OSBOURNE JELKS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

he West Atlanta Watershed Alliance (WAWA) is an urban, community-based, non-profit organization primarily serving communities and residents living in the Proctor, Utoy and Sandy Creek Watersheds in Northwest and Southwest Atlanta and South Fulton County who are overburdened with environmental stressors and pollution, but are often least represented at environmental decision-making tables. WAWA was established as a result of community efforts to halt discriminatory wastewater treatment practices in West Atlanta, and the organization has grown to become an impactful force in community-centered sustainable development. WAWA has been working in partnership with members of the West Atlanta community since 1995 to protect greenspace and water quality in West Atlanta while educating residents about important environmental issues that affect their communities. As an all-volunteer organization, WAWA spearheaded efforts to save over 400 acres 18

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

of greenspace in Southwest Atlanta and raised over $2.5 million to do so before becoming a 501c(3) organization. WAWA is revitalizing the Outdoor Activity Center (OAC), a 26-acre urban forest preserve and nature center located at 1442 Richland Rd. SW, Atlanta 30310. The OAC is WAWA’s home base where the organization provides youth- and adult-focused environmental education and training programs that reach the immediate community as well as schools, youth groups, community organizations, nature enthusiasts, environmental activists and citizens. WAWA recently launched the Atlanta Children’s Forest Network in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to provide environmental education, hands-on land and water stewardship, and programs that promote physical activity in the outdoors to nearby communities on 355+ acres of publicly owned greenspace in Southwest Atlanta.

KEY PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

WAWA educates West Atlanta residents about the community’s watersheds and other natural resources so that they understand their value, their current state of health, the ways in which they are impacted, and actions needed to improve them. To support this education, WAWA facilitates community engagement around the protection and restoration of water quality and watershed health so that West Atlanta’s residents are empowered to determine their own future. Deeply rooted in the West Atlanta community, WAWA leads and promotes citizen-centered initiatives that will result in a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable West Atlanta. Finally, WAWA offers entry points for community engagement through public lands and water stewardship and a well-defined “menu” of environmental education programs for youth and adults. WAWA’s work to make West Atlanta cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable is far reaching and helps to improve the quality of life for the Atlanta Metropolitan area. In addition to West Atlanta residents, WAWA engages youth and adults of all ages and social demographics and from diverse geographic areas across the Atlanta region, state and country in hands-on lands and watershed stewardship, environmental education and training. While these efforts are focused in West Atlanta, outreach programs are delivered to school sites and other sites in metro Atlanta as requested and in alignment with the organizations mission, goals and objectives.

With support from government agencies, corporations, foundations and non-profit partners, WAWA has begun to transform the OAC from an almost defunct nature center with few visitors and no programs to benefit the surrounding community into a world-class nature center. WAWA has engaged thousands of volunteers in hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours to help manage the OAC grounds, partnered with like-minded organizations to develop a management plan to address invasive plants, collaborated with other partners to implement a school-based “Nature in Your Neighborhood” field trip program for youth from local schools, and started a Junior Naturalist after school program for youth. Annually, WAWA hosts the family-oriented Urban Forest Festival, the Great American Backyard Campout (GABC), and facilitates a variety of outdoor education and environmental service learning programs for neighborhood youth, school, community, and youth groups from across Metropolitan Atlanta. WAWA will kick off Spring Break with its first-ever Junior Naturalist Spring Break Academy (April 6-10). In a little over six years, thousands of volunteers have logged 100,000+ hours to help manage the OAC grounds, environmental education and service learning programs have reached 6,000+ youth, and 2,000+ residents have engaged in family camping and nature-based festivals, gardening, and water conservation/rain barrel workshops. For more information on upcoming programs at the OAC, visit Wawa-Online.org or call 404.825.3872. E-mail correspondences can be directed to: info@wawa-online.org

April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Road Trip

South Fulton Families on the Go DESTINATION HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT AND SPA ARTICLE KENDRA PIERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

f you’re like most families, your family could use a little time away and a white sand beach isn’t the worst place to go. While a trip to the Caribbean is never a bad idea, somehow buying airline tickets, packing up everyone, parking at the airport and actually getting on a plane takes a little more time than most busy families have. Luckily here in Atlanta, we’re just a short drive away from the Hilton Sandestin® Beach Golf Resort and Spa with options for every member of the family, including Dad, Mom and the kids. Located in the middle of the Florida Panhandle, Hilton Sandestin is banked with the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Choctawhatchee Bay on the other. This makes the sugar white sands of its beach a centerpiece for exploring the onsite water activities or the serious matter of relaxing with your family. Even during a winter visit, the moderate climate made visiting the beach to build sandcastles a perfect activity for my family of four. Hilton Sandestin offers beach umbrellas/chairs, volleyball, paddle boards and kayaks from the resort as well as snorkeling, dolphin watch cruises, boat rentals, fishing, sailing, SCUBA and skin diving charters that can all be easily arranged through the resort. If you’re looking for less salty water, there are also three heated swimming pools, one kids’ pool and two whirlpools. For the golf and tennis family, Hilton Sandestin Beach provides guest access to the Sandestin Tennis Center, golf privileges at four championship Sandestin golf courses – Baytowne Golf Club, Burnt Pine Golf Club, Raven Golf Club, and The Links Course, and even mini-golf for your youngest golfers at the Destin Miniature Golf at Dunes Putting Course. HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT AND SPA

4000 Sandestin Boulevard South Destin, Florida 32550 For booking, call 800.559.1805 or visit HiltonSandestinBeach.com. 20

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

For the family bent on relaxing, the Serenity by the Sea Spa is located onsite in the Hilton Sandestin and offers a full menu of spa services for both men and women, including facials, massages and body treatments. Before receiving services, guests are welcome to enjoy the spa facilities such as men’s and women’s whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and lounges. After my own visit, I can clearly see why the spa was listed among Conde Nest Traveler’s “Top 100 US Resort Spas” in 2013. If you’re concerned about how to relax and keep an eye on the kids, you don’t need to worry about it because Hilton Sandestin has you covered from dawn to dusk. Deluxe Junior suites are the perfect accommodations for families offering a bunk bed area for your little ones along with a king size bed for mom and dad. The whole family will even love the Kids Krew and Kids Night Out programs that give kids a time to participate in fun resort activities while parents spend adult only time. The foodie family will not be disappointed during their visit as Hilton Sandestin offers seven different dining options onsite and 24 hour in-room dining. You’re sure to find the perfect taste for your cravings from casual beach fare at the Barefoot’s Beachside Bar and Grill, the Hadashi Sushi Bar or Destin’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. These are only a few of things you’ll find during a visit to the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. We didn’t even cover the outlet mall shopping, Air Force Armament Museum at Eglin Air Force Base, or Grayton Beach State Park for hiking the nature trail. You’ll just have to visit yourself and tell me what your favorite part is. Kendra Pierson is an Atlanta area wife, mother of two young children and volunteer capturing life with all her different roles over at the blog, HeadbandForToday. com. You can also see more of her Sandestin experience at Instagram.com/headbandfortoday.

Financial Fitness

Why Just Having a Will is Not Enough INSIGHT FROM A LOCAL EXPERT ABOUT THE COMPLEXITIES INVOLVED IN ESTATE PLANNING ARTICLE REGINA MINCEY, ESQUIRE

last will and testament, or simply a “will” is a written legal document that directs how a person’s real and personal property (assets) will be distributed or disposed of upon or after their death. The laws of the state where the property is located govern the requirements for making a valid will. Generally, a will is required to be signed by the maker and two witnesses who all sign in the presence of each other or together and before a notary public. The two witnesses should be over 18 years old and not beneficiaries within the will. This is a person’s opportunity to direct and state his/her desires, wishes and choices as to how and to whom their assets shall be given upon their death. It is always wise to hire an attorney to draft the will and then consult with a financial planner and an accountant to make sure that you are making sound decisions or choices that will not negatively impact your future finances and estate taxes for your estate or heirs. There are several other legal documents that are important to have in making estate planning decisions. You may want to put certain property in a trust for minor heirs or for the benefit of a third party. You may want to establish a guardianship for siblings or relatives who may be incapacitated and in need of care. You may want to establish or grant a Power of Attorney to a third party or someone that you trust to act on your behalf, if and when you become incapacitated. You may want execute and establish a living will or advance directives document. This is a document that allows a person to state his or her desires and wishes as to how he

or she would like medical procedures and health care treatment to be carried out in the event that he or she becomes in a vegetative state or when placed on life support before dying. Finally, don’t forget that you can prepay for your funeral expenses and give directions for your ceremony. It is always a good idea to buy a burial plot if you have specific wishes about your resting place. You should be especially certain about your decision to be cremated. Otherwise, just let your desires be known in a legal document. If you make smart estate planning and financial decisions now, your heirs and family will be less stressed upon your death and can simply follow your instructions and desires for you and your assets. Remember, if you die without a valid will (called intestate), the court can and will appoint an administrator to probate or distribute your estate and make decisions about your assets that will probably not be what you would have wanted to happen. Don’t delay and see an attorney today! Regina Mincey, Esq., specializes in Family Law and Civil Litigation at the Mincey Law Group in South Atlanta near the airport. If you have any questions or need help with your estate planning and drafting a will, please do not hesitate to contact her at 678.575.3501, lmincey327@gmail. com or MinceyLawPractice.com. April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD South Fulton Properties NEIGHBORHOOD

BA/HALF BA

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SP

DOM*

Fairburn

$799,000

$755,000

94%

Atlanta

$675,500

$650,000

96%

333

Atlanta

$600,000

$525,000

87%

Atlanta

$499,900

$354,500

70%

113

Atlanta

$480,000

$405,000

84%

Atlanta

$460,000

$430,000

93%

Palmetto

$449,900

$452,500

100%

Atlanta

$424,000

$375,000

88%

Atlanta

$398,000

100%

College Park

$397,471

$399,975

100%

Atlanta

$395,000

100%

Atlanta

$390,000

$388,000

99%

Atlanta

$381,564

$372,000

97%

113

College Park

$376,954

$377,499

100%

Atlanta

$375,414

$345,000

91%

202

Atlanta

$369,000

$340,000

92%

College Park

$364,413

$356,884

97%

124

Atlanta

$362,372

$363,607

100%

Fairburn

$350,000

$315,000

90%

126

Atlanta

$349,900

$350,000

100%

Information compiled from First Multiple Listing Service and Georgia Multiple Listing Service from dates of 9/1/2014 through 2/28/2015. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed, and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM = Days on Market

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Tiffany Powell Photography (404) 435-6274 tiffany-powell.com

AUTOMOTIVE

A National Limousine (404) 762-3007

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS Chick-Fil-A Backstage Tours tours.chick-fil-a.com Fulton County Government (404) 612-5800 fultoncountyga.gov

EDUCATION

Arlington Christian School (770) 964-9871 arlingtonchristian.org Atlanta Trilingual Academy (404) 647-4995 atlantatrilingual.com

Georgia Military College (678) 379-1414 gmc.edu

Prestige Healthcare Atlanta (404) 346-7100 prestigehealthcareatlanta.com

OTHER

The Bedford School (770) 774-8001 thebedfordschool.org

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

FASHION & ACCESSORIES Love E (404) 908-7997 loveefashion.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Davy Tax Group, LLC (404) 271-9974 davytaxgroup.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Atlanta Medical Center 404265 atlantamedcenter.com Pain 2 Wellness Center (404) 699-0966 pain2wellness.com

The Dump thedump.com

Greystone Power greystonepower.com

Reponzell Morris - REMAX (678) 758-9193 reponzellsellsatlanta.com

INSURANCE

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Farmers Insurance (770) 679-8306

The Tavern @ Campbellton (678) 904-7041 thetavernat.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Amon-Ra Law Firm, LLC (770) 528-6080 The Mincey Law Practice (678) 575-3501 minceylawpractice.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Dr. R. Johnson-Verwayne, Standard of Care Psychological Sevices (678) 973-2491 standardofcarepsychological.com

April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

April

APRIL 18 PRODIGIES OF MUSIC-CONCERT AND MASTER CLASS SOUTHWEST BRANCH LIBRARY

Join us from 2-5 p.m. for a Jazz Concert and Master Class featuring Prodigies of Music. Program hosted by Rosemary Robertson and presented by COMAS Music Group. 3665 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta. FREE For more information, e-mail comments@co.fulton.ga.us or call 404.699.6363.

APRIL 19 STREETS ALIVE WEST END

EVERY THIRD SATURDAY CARTLANTA RECYCLING MALL WEST END

The City of Atlanta Department of Public Works presents Atlanta Recycles program for all city residents from 10-2 p.m. at the Mall West End 850 Oak St. Visit Cartlanta.org for a list of accepted materials and additional information.

APRIL 2 THE GREAT EGG HUNT HAPEVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT

Thursday, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Children will enjoy stories and hunt for eggs filled with goodies. 525 King Arnold Street, Atlanta. Reservations required.For more information, e-mail comments@co.fulton.ga.us.

THROUGH APRIL 5

Join the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition and thousands of Atlantans for the West End route. The 3.5 mile loop connects three neighborhoods and opens up the streets to people of all ages to walk, bike, skate, or use any human-powered means of transportation.

APRIL 19 - JUNE 8 GEORGIA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL FAIRBURN

The Georgia Renaissance Festival is an interactive art and entertainment festival held each spring combining outdoor theatre, circus-style entertainment and arts and craft marketplace. The Festival is located at 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Road, Fairburn, Georgia 30213. GaRenFest.com

APRIL 25 GALA: LA PASION

ATLANTA FAIR

SERENBE PLAYHOUSE

TURNER FIELD-GREY LOT, 655 CENTRAL AVE SW, ATLANTA

La Pasion: In the Street that Never Sleeps - For their 6th annual gala, Serenbe Playhouse is turning up the heat. Lifted straight from the streets of Argentina to the heart of Serenbe, a brazen South American carousel as immersive as it is impassioned. Indulge in delicacies so authentic you’ll swear you’re in the center of Buenos Aires. You may even hear the heartfelt melodies of Evita cascading on the crowd from the balconies above. 9110 Selborne Lane #210, Palmetto, GA 30268. SerenbePlayhouse.com

Smiles, screams, and sweet treats. Fair entrance fees are $1 for children shorter than 36-inches. For guests taller than 36-inches entrance fees are $3 (Monday – Thursday); $5 (Friday, Saturday afternoon and Sunday); and $8 (Saturday evening). Children under 2 are free. Individual ride tickets can be purchased for $1.25 each or get unlimited ride armbands for $25 each. Eventbee.com/v/theatlantafair.

THROUGH APRIL 12 ORCHID DAZE: POP!

APRIL 26-27

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

SOUTHERN CHEF

Orchid Daze: Pop! will be on display. Inspired by famed Pop artists Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Roy Lichtenstein, the event should make for fun and creative orchid displays. The Fuqua Orchid Center is home to one of the largest collections of species orchids in the U.S., and during Orchid Daze, you’ll see a gorgeous mix of orchids.

SERIES: ASHA GOMEZ

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

INN AT SERENBE

The experience includes preparing and eating dinner on Sunday and lunch on Monday with the chef, breakfast and an overnight stay. Space is limited to 10 participants per class. To register call the Inn at Serenbe at 770.463.2610.

South Fulton Lifestyle

SPRING FESTIVAL GUIDE COMPLIED BY TAMIKO CORBIN

SANDY SPRINGS ARTSAPALOOZA APRIL 18-19 Over 150 arts and craft booths, and children play area, food trucks and local acoustic musicians 6100 Lake Forrest Dr NE Sandy Springs

INMAN PARK FESTIVAL APRIL 24-26 Tour homes, participate in street parade, visit artist market, enjoy live music

DOGWOOD FESTIVAL

Inman Park

APRIL 10-12 See fine art, hear live music and enjoy fair food. Piedmont Park

FESTIVAL ON PONCE APRIL 11-12 Features fine arts and crafts, folk art, children’s area, local food and crafts music Olmsted Linear Park at N Ponce De Leon Ave Atlanta

ACWORTH ART FESTIVAL APRIL 11-12 Booths of 100 artisans on historic Main Street and see the kid’s zone

TASTE OF EAST POINT APRIL 25 Browse art from local artist, see a car show, hear local musicians and taste local restaurants and food trucks East Point

LEMONADE DAYS APRIL 15-19 Activities for all ages Brook Run Park

SMYRNA SPRING JONQUIL FESTIVAL

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

APRIL 26-26 Arts and Crafts booths, live music, puppet show, festival food

APRIL 17-19 Try more than 20 kinds of beer and hear live music from Snoop Dog and other great musical acts.

Smyrna

Centennial Park

Atl.Blogspot.com/

Tamiko Corbin writes Miko Knows, a blog that can be found at MikoKnows-

April 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

Establishing a Green Routine For the Family WORDS KIMBERLY WALKER

eciding to go green in the home does not have to be a life altering decision for your family. Simple adjustments can make a big difference on the impact your family has on the environment. However, as with any lifestyle change, children and adults need a set routine established in order to help them remember and get accustomed to being environmentally conscious in the home. Establishing a green routine gets your children and spouse involved in the process of “thinking green”. It also helps you save money and precious resources at the same time. Here are a few simple tips that will get you and your family on the way to making better, greener decisions. When you leave the room, remember to always turn off the light. Sounds simple, right? It is. If you are not in the room, there is no need for the light to be on and for energy to still be in use. Find a spot for a recycling center in your home. Your recycling center can be as simple as 3-4 labeled bins in a closet or on a shelf in the garage. Teach your family what can be recycled like plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and paper products. Many communities have trash services that will pick up recyclables. Have a garden? Make your own compost pile. Food scraps don’t always have to go in the trash which creates greater buildup in our landfills. Setup a compost pile in your backyard. Composting has great benefits such as being a soil conditioner, recycling kitchen and yard waste and introducing beneficial

South Fulton Lifestyle | April 2015

organisms to the soil. For more detailed information on composting, visit GeorgiaRecycles.org. Have some fun with Reusing and Repurposing items. After the kids get a new pair of shoes or finish a box of cereal, those cardboard boxes can be transformed into a work of art like a craft box or a letter holder. Let the kids be creative and see what their imagination comes up with. Pull the plug on electronics not being used. From Blu-ray players to game consoles, it is a common misconception that when you hit the power button, the machine is off and no energy is being used. On the contrary, there is “standby power” being used if it remains plugged into the electrical outlet. Tell your teens to unplug devices when they are done and let your little ones know to get their older sibling or an adult to unplug the device. Watch your Water. Encourage your family to check water faucets and make sure they are tight with no leaking. Little droplets of water can equal thousands of gallons wasted each year. Teaching your family to respect the environment and to preserve its beauty happens through regular encouragement and changing your own behavior, as well as theirs, when it comes to green living. Besides routine, try making the experience fun and educational. Create a sense of enthusiasm in your home about living “green” and your family as well as the environment will enjoy reaping the benefits for years to come.

COME SEE

HOW WE’VE

CHANGED SEE WHY YOUR NEIGHBORS MAKE US ONE OF THE BUSIEST EMERGENCY ROOMS IN THE REGION • We’re INVESTING in new technology, including: • ROBOTIC-ASSISTED surgery • WIDEST MRI available in Georgia

404-265-DOCS • AtlantaMedCenter.com 1170 Cleveland Avenue • East Point, GA 30344

Black Label Hand-knotted Rugs

One-of-a-Kind Masterpieces 60% Off Price How does an exquisite hand-knotted rug worth $7,800 become available for $2,400? A Dump rug buyer acquires it from the artisan in northern India who weaves it before a buyer from a high-end store even knows it came off the loom. Presenting Black Label Hand-knotted Rugs. Individually hand-crafted, carefully curated masterpieces in wool or wool and silk. Each one a celebration of color and a singular work of art. One hundred and sixty of these one-of-a-kind rugs arrive at The Dump, for 60% less than they would be at a high-end rug retailer.

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Every weekend, new items fill our showrooms. We are constantly searching the globe to bring you the best deals, but they come and go in a single weekend. Living, Dining, Bedroom, Genuine Leather and Motion, Fine Rugs, & Luxury Mattresses.

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815 Sidney Marcus Boulevard Atlanta, Georgia 30324 | 404.442.1900 Fri & Sat 10am - 9pm | Sun 11am - 7pm thedump.com