GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK
SHOP LOCAL
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
Planting Seeds and Smelling the Roses
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We invest in a lot of things: our community, relationships, finances, and health, hoping for a positive impact. We invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve through volunteering, mentoring, and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meet long-term financial goals and, secure our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community, and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances, and those we love.
In this issue, SoFu resident news anchor Tracye Hutchins talks about growing where you are planted and her investment in this community, along with her faith and her love of gardening! There’s an article about small business owners and concessions in the bustling Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. There are financial experts giving tips! So please invest your time reading SoFu Lifestyle! It’s bound to have some great returns!
ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Michelle Taylor Willis
michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kevin Giles | kevin.giles@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jasmine Tiffany, Juju Ramos, Zaria Samuel, Alex Amos
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bob Mackey Photography, BlameItOnLorraine, Dexter Harris, Darnell Remy
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Photo Caption: Erikka and A.J. Mitchell enjoyed the world premiere of BUST at Alliance Theatre.
business monthly
College Park Mayor Pro Tem Jamelle McKenzie State of the Ward
On January 16, 2025, City of College Park Mayor Pro Tem Jamelle McKenzie hosted a State of the Ward address in College Park. The event highlighted the incredible progress made in Ward 1 over the past 12 months. Mayor Pro Tem McKenzie has been a force for meaningful change, spearheading new initiatives, advocating for equity, and fostering stronger connections with residents. Together, the community is building a brighter future.
“Topdog/Underdog”
by Suzan-Lori Parks at Actors Express Through April 19
Lincoln and Booth, African-American brothers, were named by their father as a sick joke. The two hustle for work, one to the tune of Three-Card Monte and the other working as Abraham Lincoln at an arcade. Cast in a life of poverty and violence, the legacy of their namesakes on their backs, these brothers battle more than sibling rivalry. Tickets start at $51.50 and may be purchased online at actors-express.com or by calling 404-607-7469.
Freeman Named One of 2025 USBC Power 50 Women of Influence Class
Jolene Butts Freeman, AVP, Communications and Marketing, Meharry Medical College was named one of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) 2025 Power 50 Women of Influence Class presented by American Airlines, a distinguished group of visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are driving impactful change across industries and communities. This year’s highly anticipated luncheon, themed “The Art of Influence: Women Leading with Purpose,” was held at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C.
INVESTING IN YOUR RETIREMENT
As individuals approach retirement, they often grapple with a myriad of questions and myths that can cloud their financial planning. Here are some prevalent myths and questions that many people encounter on their journey to retirement.
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I START SAVING FOR RETIREMENT?
Ideally, you should start saving for retirement as soon as you begin earning an income. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow due to compound interest. Many financial advisors suggest starting in your 20s, but it’s never too late to start saving, even if you’re in your 30s or 40s.
IS SOCIAL SECURITY ENOUGH TO LIVE ON DURING RETIREMENT?
No, Social Security alone is generally not enough to cover all your living expenses in retirement. It’s designed to replace only a portion of your preretirement income (about 40% for most people). It’s important to have additional savings, such as a 401(k) or IRA, to ensure a comfortable retirement.
DO I NEED TO HAVE A MILLION DOLLARS SAVED TO RETIRE COMFORTABLY?
This is a common myth. The amount you need to retire comfortably depends on your lifestyle, expenses, and retirement goals. Many people
can retire comfortably with less than a million dollars if they have a solid plan and budget and manage their expenses wisely. It’s crucial to assess your individual situation and needs. However, depending on your retirement needs, this amount may not be enough. That’s why it’s critical to have a financial plan tailored to your individual and family goals.
CAN I RELY ON MY EMPLOYER’S PENSION PLAN FOR RETIREMENT?
While employer pension plans can be a valuable source of income in retirement, many companies have reduced or eliminated pension plans in recent years. It’s important to have a diversified retirement strategy that includes personal savings and investments, in addition to any pension benefits.
WILL I NEED TO WITHDRAW A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF MY SAVINGS EACH YEAR TO LIVE COMFORTABLY IN RETIREMENT?
Many retirees believe they need to withdraw a significant portion of their savings each year. However, financial experts often recommend the “4% rule,” which suggests that withdrawing 4% of your initial retirement savings each year (adjusted for inflation) can
help ensure your money lasts throughout retirement. It’s important to create a withdrawal strategy that aligns with your specific financial situation and goals.
If you’re feeling uncertain about your retirement goals and needs or have lingering questions about planning for your financial future, don’t hesitate to reach out. With a genuine passion for helping clients create tailored retirement plans, I am well-equipped to guide you through the process and provide the clarity you need. Whether you’re looking to debunk common myths, understand your savings options, or develop a strategy that fits your unique circumstances, I am here to assist you every step of the way. Contact me today to start your journey towards a secure and fulfilling retirement!
Kevin Pierson, a seasoned State Farm Agent with 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, is dedicated to helping his clients navigate these complexities. He has a passion for working closely with customers to create customized retirement plans that align with their unique goals and lifestyles. With his extensive knowledge, Kevin addresses common misconceptions and frequently asked questions about retirement to empower individuals to make informed decisions.
At GreyStone Power, our power isn’t just … power. It’s our people. It’s Vincent’s eye for detail as he upgrades power lines to prevent outages. It’s Kelcey’s kind voice as she answers members’ questions. It’s Jeff as he shares new energy-saving tips. It’s Amanda’s joy as she plans an Annual Meeting that’s more of a party. And it’s members like you, enjoying some of the lowest rates in the nation. So here’s to our people, and the pursuit of perfect power, right here in the community.
Our power is our people.
stepping forward
JARDINE SPEARS AUTISM FOUNDATION GALA’S CELEBRATION OF LEGACY & INCLUSION
ARTICLE BY ZARIA SAMUEL
Colorful, fun , and refreshing are just three words entrepreneur and Jardine Spears Autism Foundation Founder Ty Spears uses to describe the foundation’s first annual Sneaker Gala. The gala will not only celebrate the hard work of its members and contributors but will also appreciate those who have been instrumental in building the foundation’s name and brand.
The gala will take place on April 19, 2025, at the Georgia International Conference Center in support of Autism Awareness Month. Parents and children will be able to engage in open discussions about the successes and challenges of raising a child with autism. Children 12 and older are encouraged to attend and learn more about autism awareness.
“We really want to uplift the spiritual part of loving one another and making people with autism feel normal,” Spears said.
Attendees can expect vibrant music, food, auctions, and inspiring words from notable speakers, including South Fulton County Chief of Police Keith Meadows and Clayton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Anthony Smith.
For Spears, the Sneaker Gala is deeply personal. Growing up, his mother set an example by giving back to the community. Upholding her legacy, the foundation has supported various organizations, including Councilwoman Andrea L. Boone’s church, and will continue to do so at the upcoming gala.
Rooted in family values, the gala serves as an opportunity for Spears to appreciate the role his son, Jardine Spears, has played in his life while uplifting other fathers through community building. The Sneaker Gala is more than an event—it’s a powerful movement to uplift the community, support autism awareness, and foster a culture of love, faith, and inclusion.
Learn more at JSAutism.org
“I hope that other dads can see this and say, ‘I’m not alone, and I want to be part of this,’” Spears said.
A GATEWAY TO GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY
INVESTING IN CONCESSIONS SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM AT ATL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB MACKEY
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has launched its Concessions Small Business Program, a year-long collaboration involving airport leadership, the Department of Aviation, Procurement, Law, and other stakeholders. This program, approved by the FAA in October 2024, is designed to create inclusive opportunities for small businesses at the airport.
The program is race-and-gender neutral, with no local or geographic preferences, ensuring that businesses from all backgrounds are welcome. It offers two key opportunities: the Gateway to Growth Academy and the SOAR ATL program.
The Gateway to Growth Academy provides small business owners with essential training on procurement processes, solicitations, and managing operations in an airport environment. Applications opened at ATL.com. The Academy began on February 27, 2025, and will run for 11 weeks, featuring weekly virtual training, knowledge checks,
Walter Vinson (Photo Provided)
and two in-person panel discussions with concessionaires. Participants will gain valuable insights into the day-to-day operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International and will graduate during National Small Business Week in May 2025.
Through this Academy, small businesses will be better equipped to handle challenges like extended hours, financial risks, staffing needs, and maintaining HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport’s strict operational standards.
SOAR ATL is a separate initiative that provides small businesses with the chance to operate in ATL through short-term lease agreements. These leases will cover inline locations, kiosks, and retail merchandising units. SOAR ATL participants will receive guidance, mentorship, and resources to ensure their success not only at ATL but also in future business ventures. Participation in Gateway to Growth is not required to bid on a solicitation opportunity under SOAR ATL.
VISION FOR GROWTH
Walter Vinson, Assistant General Manager, Business Diversity & Government Affairs, emphasizes the program’s connection to the vision of growing small businesses in Atlanta.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is committed to continuing the legacy of creating equal business opportunities, a mission started by the late Maynard H. Jackson, Jr.
“Our Gateway 2 Growth (G2G) program will help small businesses understand how to operate a business inside of the world’s busiest and most efficient airport in the world. Mayor Andre Dickens is very passionate about growing small businesses in the City of Atlanta through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). This is a continued vision from previous mayors, starting with the late Honorable Maynard H. Jackson, Jr. who was committed to creating equal business opportunities for all,” said Walter Vinson.
The Concessions Small Business Program is a powerful tool for economic growth, helping small businesses succeed at ATL and beyond.
Cecily Dionne Davis
Shucking Limits & Harvesting Dreams
At first glance, Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta’s presentation of “Shucked” may seem like a quirky musical about corn, but beneath the humor and charm lies a story of family, acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world.
Set in Cobb County, a town surrounded— and isolated—by endless fields of corn, the community thrives in its traditions. But when the corn begins to die, the people are faced with an unfamiliar challenge: They must venture beyond their safe, insular world to find a solution. What unfolds is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the realization that sometimes stepping outside of the familiar is the only way to truly grow.
For Cecily Dionne Davis, “Shucked” isn’t just a show—it’s a reflection of her own journey. As a performer and advocate, she has dedicated her life to storytelling and breaking barriers, proving that stepping beyond expectations leads to transformation.
Davis’s love for performing started in middle school pageants, where she was crowned Ms. 6th and 8th Grade. Inspired by her mother who also participated in pageants, she saw pageantry as more than
ARTICLE BY JUJU RAMOS
competition—it was a way to develop confidence and commanding stage presence. When she attended Howard University, she competed in pageants every year, refining her voice and discovering the power of representation.
But her passion for performance extended beyond the pageant stage. It became a calling—a space where she could tell stories, uplift voices, and inspire change. Her time at Howard deepened Davis’s understanding of Black identity, exposing her to its vast diversity. George Floyd ignited a sense of urgency: “If I am not safe, no one who looks like me is safe.”
Determined to create change, she joined Black Girls Do Theater, founded by Renee Harrison—a trailblazer who champions Black women in the industry. Harrison’s selfless dedication
ensures theater isn’t just a side hustle but a space where Black women are prioritized, uplifted, and empowered. Through this community, Davis found not just inclusion, but celebration. Through advocacy, Davis works to ensure that Black performers are seen, valued, and prioritized—not just included.
Davis hopes to inspire HBCU students to pursue careers in the arts without limitation. Her legacy is one of courage, breaking barriers, and proving that dreams are limitless when you dare to chase them.
Be sure to check out Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta’s “Shucked” from May 20th to May 25th at Fox Theatre in Atlanta.
Cecily in “Shrek” as Princess Fiona
SOFU’S TRACYE HUTCHINS
ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLAMEITONLORAINE
Many people focus on stocks, real estate, or businesses when investing, but 32-year veteran journalist, Atlanta News First anchor and plant lover Trayce Hutchins says some of her most meaningful investments include her home, her health, and her love of nature. All of these are connected with South Fulton and her approach to living intentionally.
Hutchins first lived in South Fulton years ago before her career and family took her to different cities, including a stint in San Diego. But South Fulton left an impression, of its sense of space, its slower pace, and its natural beauty.
“Living in South Fulton gives me an appreciation for nature and community,” Hutchins shares. “It’s a lot less congested than other parts of metro Atlanta, and that gave me a chance to truly enjoy my neighborhood, to look out and see woods instead of buildings, to feel a sense of calm just by being home.”
For Hutchins, investment in her home means creating a space that nurtures well-being. That includes curating her garden, both indoors and out, a passion passed down from her mother.
“I get immediate satisfaction from gardening,” she says. “There’s something about putting a bulb into the ground and seeing it sprout weeks later that gives me such joy. It’s a sense of accomplishment and a way to decompress after busy days.”
Her gardening advice for beginners is rooted in patience and curiosity.
“You don’t have to have a green thumb,” Hutchins insists. “It’s really about learning and understanding how much light, water, and care each plant needs. Sometimes, you’ll get it wrong, and that’s okay. Plants teach you to slow down and pay attention.”
Indoors, Hutchins treats her plants like family, talking to them, moving them around until they find the perfect spot, and even propagating baby plants to share with friends.
“They clean the air, but they also give life to a room,” she says. “It’s like having living art. Something so beautiful that also contributes to your health.”
Tracye’s favorite mantra relates to plants and life: “Grow where you are planted.” Something she heard more than 20 years ago, when she was going through a very difficult time in her life that she tries to apply to her career. “I may not be exactly where I want to be… but I have to learn how to embrace where I am, be the best I can be, and learn to thrive in it, until that situation changes.” She also applied that to her personal life. She didn’t like the cards that life dealt her, but she learned to make the most of it until things changed.
“In addition to having a strong faith in God and prayer,” Hutchins says, “growing where I’ve been planted is the only way I’ve been able to survive the turmoil of life.”
In addition to nurturing her plants, Hutchins is eager to reconnect with South Fulton’s evolving community. She’s especially excited about the reopening of Welcome All Natatorium and hopes to cover its swim team for an upcoming Juneteenth feature. She also highlights SoFu’s St. James Live as a must-visit venue for anyone exploring the area.
“It’s not exactly a hidden gem to locals, but it’s a gem,” she laughs. “The food, the service, and the live performances make it a staple.”
Hutchins’ story is a reminder that sometimes the most valuable investments are in the spaces we create, the hobbies we nurture, and the communities where we choose to stay connected. Whether through her journalism, her love of plants, or her appreciation for South Fulton, Hutchins shows that living well starts with investing in the things that truly bring you joy.
With over 25 years of experience in financial services, we have built strong relationships with lenders both locally and across the U.S. This extensive network allows us to connect our clients with the right financing solutions to help their businesses grow and succeed.
We take a consultative approach to learning about your business and tailoring a lending solution to fit your specific needs.
Call us today to explore your financing options!
A GENERATIONAL LEGACY OF FAMILY SERVICE AT HEAD'S PLUMBING
ARTICLE BY ALEX AMOS
For more than 40 years and across three generations, the Head family has offered the Atlanta community top-quality plumbing services through Head’s Plumbing. While providing the best plumbing—whether fixing leaky pipes or clearing clogged sinks—remains a top priority, the family is equally committed to giving back through community outreach and supporting local causes, always striving to make a lasting impact both in their work and beyond.
One of the company’s recent initiatives in late January involved taking on a major renovation project for Nicholas House, a homeless shelter that helps dozens of residents in Atlanta get back on their feet. Khadija Head, the CEO of Head’s Plumbing, expressed that she and her brother, Odari Head, the master plumber of the company, chose to pursue the project to help impact multiple families in the community at once.
“Odari and I both dug into our networks to search for nonprofits in Atlanta that needed help,” Head said. “We asked ourselves, ‘Who would be a good candidate?’ We needed somewhere with
multiple restrooms, faucets, and sinks—a place that housed a lot of people.”
The project included renovating the house’s old water heating system by upgrading it from one water heater to three, ensuring families had access to reliable, on-demand hot water—a crucial improvement to the shelter’s daily operations and quality of life for the families staying there.
Throughout the renovation process, Head shared that her dedication to completing the project was also fueled by her desire to make sure that all children and mothers have access to hot water for essential tasks, such as sanitizing household items.
“There’s a lot of moms in here with newborns, so things like having a place where they can sanitize their baby’s bottles where they don’t always have to check if the kitchen’s open is huge.”
To continue supporting the growth of the community, Khadija and Odari hope to pass on the tradition of their company to the next generation. Odari’s son, Cameron Head, is set to take on the family trade, stepping up to embrace the responsibility firsthand.
Cameron aims to not only continue the family business but also expand it by broadening its services. As he approaches the end of high school, he plans to attend college for a degree in business management and enroll in trade school to study heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), building a well-rounded skill set to help grow the family’s enduring impact.
“When I was around 14 or 15, I told my dad that we should expand our services, and he said it was a great idea,” Cameron said. “I wanted to add HVAC, electrical, and construction, and I ended up choosing to pursue HVAC first after discussing the idea further with him. It also stood out the most to me.”
With a steadfast commitment to serving others, Khadija said she and her family hope to inspire others in the Black community to pursue more careers in the trades and help eliminate the negative stigma surrounding plumbing.
“When you look at the landscape of the plumbing industry 2 years ago, only 8% of plumbers were Black, and today it’s only 10%,” Khadija said. “We represent 3% to 5% of the small business population if you exclude ethnicity. When you look at companies in their third generation, and then consider that we are Black-owned, we’re less than 1%. So, absolutely, we show up each and every day because we have influence—it’s our responsibility. If we don’t do it, no one else will.”
“ServiceTitan deemed December 12 the “Day of the Trades” and launched Power the Nation, an ongoing national campaign to celebrate its customers’ philanthropic work and community impact.
With ServiceTitan’s support, we were tasked with selecting any organization near and dear to our hearts, and for that organization, we would provide our services free of charge.
We knew we wanted to go the nonprofit route and choose an organization that helps families rather than just individual women and men. We chose Nicholas House, a Grant Park area–based shelter helping homeless families achieve self-sufficiency, because their mission aligns with our values as a company, and we gained a deep understanding of their impact. By servicing Nicholas House, we extended our reach within our community and created transformation that would last a decade.
We got our entire team on-site, and over a few days, we installed three tankless water systems and three filtration systems, repaired the drainage system, and fully renovated three bathrooms, including vanities, toilets, and showers. Our team also updated the plumbing system and completed bathroom restorations to improve system efficiency, reduce maintenance needs, and ensure residents can access on-demand hot water.
These efforts are an embodiment of the values and excellence that align perfectly with ServiceTitan’s mission to modernize and empower the trades.”
“Our company’s story is deeply rooted in resilience, community, and justice. It all starts with gratitude. There’s a massive importance in looking outward and value in giving to others beyond yourself. Through this activation and my work, I want to advocate for growth. I hope to inspire more people, especially the next generation of trade workers, the Black and Brown communities, and women, to pursue careers in the trades and shed light on the stability and fulfilling social impact the profession can provide.” —Khadijah Head, CEO
HOW A SMALL BUSINESS LOAN Can Help YOUR BUSINESS
ARTICLE BY GLENDA WALKER
A small business loan can be a great resource, giving you the capital needed to expand and take your business to the next level. Whether you’re starting out or have plans to expand, obtaining a small business loan gives you the flexibility to invest in the areas that drive success and long-term growth.
1. EXPAND YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE OFFERINGS
One of the most beneficial things you can do with a small business loan is expand your product or service offerings. Diversifying your products and services allows you to enter new markets and reach different customer segments. You can utilize the money to purchase new equipment, add more employees, or finance research and development to create new products in the market. A loan provides you with the ability to keep growing and to become more competitive.
2. MARKETING AND BRANDING
Visibility matters in today’s saturated market. You can be the best at what you do, but if no one knows about you or your business, it doesn’t matter! A small business loan can help fund marketing and branding efforts that put your business in front of potential customers. Whether it’s advertising, improving your social media presence, or creating a better website, marketing drives revenue. With the help of a loan, effective marketing can boost your presence and attract more customers to your business.
3. STREAMLINING OPERATIONS
Another great way to use a small business loan is to make your business run more efficiently and smoothly. Whether it’s upgrading equipment or improving your inventory system, making your operations more efficient will save you time and money. The more streamlined your processes are, the easier it will be to manage and grow your business.
Ultimately, a small business loan can be a powerful tool when used wisely. By investing in new products, marketing, and operational efficiency, you’re setting your business up for long-term growth, stability, and success.
