ATLANTA MAYOR ANDRE DICKENS
Hosts 41st UNCF
Mayor’s Masked Ball
Is It Christmas Yet?
The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
I really love this season! My favorite tradition is the annual Spelman Morehouse Christmas Carol concert. I also love “The Urban Nutcracker” presented by Ballethnic, a truly Atlantan presentation of the classic ballet. One of my favorite holiday events is the 41st UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball! We sat down with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens to talk about the impact the Ball has for student scholarships and we were lucky enough to photograph him in his office in City Hall. He talked about being a native Atlantan and that he is concerned with the interconnectedness of the whole metro area, including SoFu.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what the #SoFu area has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season in terms of ways to give back. The Fulton County Library is one of our favorites! While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who are grieving and have lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.
Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year, #SoFu!
ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE
December 2024
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
Juju Ramos, Jasmine Tiffany, Gabrielle Latimore
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bob Mackey, Greg Mooney, Darrell Stoney
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Making Spirits Bright
Join
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Experience the fusion of business and lifestyleReclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.
YOU REALLY HAVE TO CHOOSE?
Franchising with us means making money and time for your
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ALLIANCE THEATRE
AT THE INTERSECTION OF LIFE, ART, AND ACTIVISM
PEARL CLEAGE
“Like the jazz musicians say, ‘Everything is everything,’” writer Pearl Cleage quotes as she reflects on what she would say to her younger self. Known for her novel, What Crazy Looks Like on an Ordinary Day, which was featured in Oprah’s Book Club; her
life, an understanding that significantly impacted her writing.
Influences from writers like Langston Hughes, Alice Walker, and Ntozake Shange inspired her to tell stories centered around everyday Black people, especially Black women.
“DON’T WORRY ABOUT THE ‘WHAT IF?’ ONLY
CONCERN
YOURSELF
play, “Flyin’ West”; and her book, Blues for an Alabama Sky, which had a recent production in London, Pearl is a phenomenal playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist.
Growing up with a family deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement and having always been a storyteller, Pearl knew her writing would be her tool for activism where writer’s block wouldn’t be an issue since “We’re still trying to get free.” The rich civil rights culture, activism, and art in Atlanta led Pearl to attend Spelman College from Detroit, Michigan. The city resonated with her deeply. Pearl worked at what is now known as the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, collecting and preserving materials, including transcribing speeches and stories from the Civil Rights Movement. Her time working closely with civil rights activists taught her that struggle and joy are not separate entities but intersect in a balanced
WITH ‘WHAT IS.’”
Pearl powerfully captures these experiences in her work, exploring the fullness and complexity of life between the intersections of our personal and political lives. She sees her role as a writer as reflecting the truth of what Black women experience. She shows that even while fighting for justice, people can still experience life and all its beauty—falling in love, raising children, sharing, and creating memories within friendships. This perspective shaped her writing, and she wanted to emphasize the importance of everyday triumphs just as much as more immense struggles for justice within the community.
As she grows through life, so do the themes she explores in her work. While earlier works focused on discovering the world, falling in and out of love, and figuring out life choices—themes more reflective of someone in their 20s—Pearl is interested in delving into
CONTINUED >
Changing the World
One Black Girl at a Time
Our mission at The Empress and Pearls is to aid in cultivating the minds of girls of color through motherly guidance, mentorship and education. We highlight the symbolism of the pearl, a popular gem, rich in character and powerful in impact.
cross-generational conversations as she now has children and grandchildren. She desires to cultivate an open space for dialogue and transparency, without judgment, between generations through shared experiences, particularly regarding culture, art, music, and dance. She believes this medium will connect people across generations for a deeper emotional understanding of our collective consciousness. Instead of burying or “scrubbing these stories clean,” as she says, Pearl believes there is real power in the exchange of experiences between generations to create authenticity in communication and understanding.
Pearl’s storytelling has inspired and shaped a new generation of writers to tell their truths. Reflecting on her own journey as a young writer who had worries, she tells her younger self and younger writers to prioritize creating honest, authentic stories instead of focusing on commercial success.
“Don’t worry about the ‘what if?’ because you should only concern yourself with ‘what is.’”
Currently in residence at Atlanta’s Alliance Theater, Pearl remains actively engaged in her craft. She is eagerly looking forward to upcoming projects, including sharing a play she and her husband, Azaron Burnett, are writing, entitled, “Off Day at Chickens.”
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BAUER-LYONS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SOUTH FULTON ARTS
Art Matters Here
At South Fulton Arts we believe art matters, as it is essential to connecting and engaging with each other as a community. Whether through performances or community events, we strive to create spaces where individuals from all walks of life can gather, connect, and celebrate the richness of our collective human experience. In a world often characterized by division and discord, the arts serve as a unifying force, transcending barriers and fostering understanding and empathy.
“Community Matters Here” is a phrase that speaks to our deep-seated commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. At South Fulton Arts, we believe everyone—regardless of age, background, or circumstance—should have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the arts. This is why we work to remove barriers to access to ensure that our programming reflects the diversity of the community. By making the arts accessible to all, we not only enrich individual lives but also strengthen the fabric of the community as a whole.
We are grateful to have been selected as this year’s beneficiary of the SoFu Legends Ball, which took place on November 16, at the Georgia International Convention Center. We recognize that we cannot achieve our mission alone; it takes the collective efforts of artists, donors, and community stakeholders to realize our vision of a thriving arts community.
Through strategic partnerships with local artists, schools, and organizations, we’re able to leverage our resources, amplify the impact of our work, and create lasting connections that extend far beyond the walls of our organization.
On a recent episode of Spark, a podcast published by South Fulton Arts and available on Spotify, I shared a conversation I recently had with a school principal who worked with one of our arts partners. As we talked about the impact made, he said, “You’ve shown my students that they have options.”
Thank you to the SoFu community for your unwavering support of South Fulton Arts. Together, we will continue to champion the arts in this community. When art thrives, our community thrives. Please visit www.southfultonarts.org to view our upcoming 2025 season so you can plan to take in a memorable and accessible arts experience.
HOME OF THE ULTIMATE STUDENT
lmhotep Academy provides each student with accelerated academics, which challenges them on and above their grade level and provides tailored academics to those students whose educational achievements may not meet the standard requirement.
Pre-Kto 8th Grade schedule A Tour!
LOVE YOUR LIBRARY?
Support It This December!
Many of us have fond childhood memories of our local library. For children, libraries are a crucial place of discovery and the development of fundamental literacy skills. For adults, it’s hard to imagine a world without libraries. They are a critical “third place” and gathering place for our communities. The neighborhood library offers programs and services beyond books, increasing access to technology, education, literacy, and community resources.
“Libraries are for everyone! In addition to all of the books and digital resources they offer, they are safe spaces and vibrant community hubs. At your local library, you can learn new skills, connect with your neighbors and grow. A gift to the Library Foundation supports engaging programs, critical services, and diverse and extensive collections,” says Executive Director Erin Dreiling.
The Fulton County Library System is the largest in Georgia, serving one million residents, and most of the branches are in South Fulton. As the nonprofit advocate and fundraising champion of the system, the AtlantaFulton Public Library Foundation supports innovation and community programs above and beyond what public funding can provide.
DID YOU KNOW?
• The Summer Reading Program, featuring the theme “Adventure Starts at Your Library,” concluded in early August with nearly 13,000 participants. In June, the Children’s Book Festival boosted the summer reading program. More than 800 children participated in community events in Alpharetta and South Fulton.
• The Library System has a social work team that connects patrons with much-needed services and housing through partnerships with nonprofits and local institutions.
• Career Online High School launched on May 1, allowing individuals to earn their high school diploma using a free, virtual 18-month program. Through a partnership with Atlanta Public Schools, the library offers GED classes and testing.
• Over 44 book clubs participated in the annual One Book One Read community-wide read-a-long this year. On August 10, Monica Kaufmann Pearson moderated a live event with author Nikki Erlick to discuss the featured book, The Measure. It was checked out over 2,500 times and 400+ individuals attended the culminating event.
One of the library’s key roles in Atlanta is bridging the digital equity gap. Access to technology is critical for library patrons of all ages—many depend on the library’s computers and Wi-Fi to complete homework, apply for jobs, and access critical services. The Library Foundation helps the Library System purchase and maintain innovative technology equipment and offer digital training.
The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation’s mission is to advocate for, partner with, and invest in the Fulton County Library System. Donations from individuals like you support community programs, children’s literacy, and more! Learn more and make a gift today at afplf.org.
Learn more about the Fulton County Library System and its services at FulCoLibrary.org
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Urban Cowboy in
CACTUS, PIZZA, CRAFT DRINKS AND SWINGS!
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS
n a s h v i l l e
Guys, if you haven’t been to Urban Cowboy in Nashville, TN, add this to your to-do list.
Upon arrival, you’re met with an 1800’s magical mansion. Parking is easy: on the street or in the small attached lot. Following the wraparound porch, you land at swing doors. Enter Public House—a dungeon-like bar that serves any drink you want (including virgin drinks) on one side, and the other, a kitchen where chefs are constructing pizzas that file into? brick ovens. “Yes, please!” The pizza is delicious, but friends, for the love of God, try the pizza rolls. You’re welcome.
Drink in hand and pizza ordered, you continue through the courtyard adorned with tables, benches, and “bob your head” music. The walkway takes you to the other side of the property that reminded me of a Japanese garden, red tent lights and all, and a perfect place to park with food and drinks. Alternativelly, you can stay on the path, and curve around to the front door. The front yard is adorned with plants, but it was the cactus for me. And yes, they’re real. #learnedthatthehardway. Anyhoo, imagine a big swing in the front yard (country) with passing cars right in front of you (city). Weird dichotomy, I know. Urban Cowboy.
Moving indoors, you use a code for guests only, although the property is open during the evening. Public House and Parlor Bar (inside) are open to the public, and at night they have live music and drinks at Parlor Bar. Parlors bookend the check-in area, both adorned with modern antique furniture. Look for the old safe when you get there!
Secret stairs lead you to sleeping quarters. I stayed in the penthouse (which has three sleeping areas) and was welcomed with a bottle of bubbles and a cute note. What a fitting reminder that hospitality was on point! The bed was heaven, and I loved the clawfoot tub (heaven again), laced with natural scrubs and soaks to augment your already heightened experience. There was even a robe made of clouds (still heaven) that little bluebirds drape on you (felt like it)! Non-tub bathers will enjoy the spacious shower in a copper-appointed bathroom filled with necessary extras.
The room came with a major (not mini) bar: an in-room fridge stocked with a curated mix of local beers and waters, along with a selection of thoughtful snacks and toiletries: Marvis toothpaste, Harry’s razor, assortments of different candies and snacks, all natural and local and yummy. Not free, but you will gladly spend money on those items. If you’re a woman traveling alone, look for something just for you in that selection (wink, wink). There are a total of eight elaborate suites, so choose away!
Sleep came easy, and breakfast did, too! The Parlor Bar opened in the morning with an assortment of pastries, fruit, coffee from a local roaster, and real oatmeal IN A JAR. I opted to sit on the front porch and play with my favorite cactus while I enjoyed my lite fare, but you can enjoy breakfast anywhere on the property.
Listen, if you want a quick getaway from Atlanta, check out Urban Cowboy. For more info, visit their website at urbancowboy.com/nashville
Mayor Andre Dickens
ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB MACKEY PHOTOGRAPHY
LEADING ATLANTA’S RENAISSANCE WITH HEART AND VISION & HOSTING 41ST ANNUAL MAYOR’S MASKED BALL
For Atlanta native Mayor Andre Dickens, the heartbeat of the city isn’t just something you hear, it’s something you feel in every neighborhood, every event, and every initiative that drives change. As he prepares to host the 41st Annual Mayor’s Masked Ball at the new Signia Hotel by Hilton on December 21, Mayor Dickens reflects on how much the city has grown, how deeply he’s committed to its future, and how excited he is to lead the way forward.
“Last year, we broke records with $4 million raised at the ball,” Dickens shares, pride in his voice. “That’s more than double what any other city has done.” This year, he’s aiming even higher. Beyond the glitz and glamor, the Mayor’s Ball is about Atlanta’s future, the scholarships, opportunities, and pathways that empower the city’s youth to achieve their dreams. For Dickens, the ball represents more than a fundraiser; it celebrates Atlanta’s promise and the community’s commitment to education and equity.
Since taking office, Dickens has been relentlessly addressing the city’s most pressing issues with the precision and dedication of someone who knows Atlanta to his core. He’s tackled complex challenges head-on, focusing on reducing crime, creating affordable housing, and boosting Atlanta’s economic growth—all while preserving the community spirit that makes this city unique. In just two years, violent crime and youth violence have dropped significantly. “We’re seeing a 30% reduction in homicides,” he notes, “which means our families are safer, and our youth are getting a chance to grow up in a city that supports them.”
““We
are truly honored to have Mayor Dickens uphold the longstanding tradition of mayors hosting the Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball. This year commemorates our 80th anniversary, UNCF has fueled HBCUs with vital resources to educate generations of African American and other minority students,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF.
Perhaps most inspiring is Dickens’ drive to ensure that every Atlantan has a place to call home. Under his leadership, the city has made unprecedented strides in affordable housing, building 10,000 units for low- and moderate-income families. “It’s not just about numbers; it’s about people,” he explains. “We’re building mixed-income communities that give everyone a fair shot, right here in Atlanta.” His efforts have earned the city its first-ever tripleA bond rating, a testament to his commitment to effective, accountable governance.
But Dickens isn’t just a policy-maker; he’s a connector. As the first Atlanta mayor to chair the Atlanta Regional Commission, he’s bringing together leaders from across the 11-county area to work on shared goals like transportation, job growth, and preparations for marquee events, including the upcoming World Cup and Super Bowl. “Atlanta isn’t just a city—it’s a movement,” he says, envisioning a future where smooth roads, high-paying jobs, and thriving small businesses shape daily life for all Atlantans.
When the holidays roll around, Dickens embraces his role not just as mayor, but as a friend, father, and true Atlantan. He spends the season reconnecting with old friends and family, sharing meals (his smoked turkey collard greens are a staple), and catching up with high school buddies who’ve moved away. And for the holiday season, he’ll be putting together an Atlanta-inspired R&B playlist “smooth tunes with a little holiday spirit” that captures the city’s rich musical legacy.
Looking ahead, Dickens has a hopeful message for Atlanta: “The future is bright, and faith is what you make it. For those hoping for a fresh start, a new opportunity, or a season of blessings, remember that every day holds promise.”
In a city renowned for its resilience, creativity, and community, Andre Dickens is leading with both head and heart. With his vision and energy, he’s ensuring Atlanta isn’t just moving forward—it’s thriving, one neighborhood, one celebration, one new opportunity at a time.
Atlanta Fashion AND POLO CLASSIC RETURNS!
ARTICLE
BY JUJU RAMOS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARRELL STONEY
The Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic (AFPC) is not just an event; it is a dazzling spectacle that has earned its place as the signature event of the year in Atlanta.
This annual celebration artfully intertwines the sophistication of high fashion with the exhilarating action of polo, drawing an eclectic mix of fashion enthusiasts, polo aficionados, and notable guests from across the world.
Set in the picturesque surroundings of the Bouckaert Farm under the warm Southern sun, the AFPC transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. At the heart of the AFPC is a breathtaking fashion show that features the renowned Miguel Wilson Collection, alongside other celebrity fashion designers and a vibrant array of emerging talents. Attendees are invited to don their most exquisite attire, showcasing styles that range from classic elegance to cutting-edge contemporary looks.
Each designer’s creations shimmer and shine on the runway, captivating the audience and setting the stage for a celebration of sartorial artistry. The atmosphere is electric as models glide gracefully, embodying the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines this remarkable event.
The thrilling polo matches serve as the centerpiece of the occasion, inviting spectators to witness the skill and precision of the players as they compete for the prestigious title. The sound of galloping hooves, the crack of the mallet, and the excitement of the crowd create an unforgettable ambiance. For both seasoned polo fans and newcomers to the sport, the matches offer a captivating experience that highlights the athleticism and strategy involved in this timeless game.
Beyond the polo matches, the Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic is a feast for the senses. Guests can indulge in VIP experiences that include dazzling celebrity guest
performances, gourmet cuisine crafted by top chefs, and signature cocktails that tantalize the taste buds. A luxury automobile display showcases some of the finest vehicles, while a specialty vendor village offers an array of unique products, from fashion accessories to artisanal goods, enhancing the overall experience.
Miguel Wilson, an accomplished fashion designer and passionate polo player, founded the AFPC to support the Ride To The Olympics Foundation (RTO). Established in 2017, RTO is dedicated to bringing awareness and opportunities to inner-city youth through equestrian sports and fashion. This noble mission adds depth and meaning to the event, as a portion of the proceeds goes directly to the foundation, empowering the next generation to pursue their dreams.
If you would like to join in making a meaningful impact, donate today at RideToTheOlympics.org and help shape a brighter future for the next generation.
BEST ATTORN E Y
Wishing you a
