South Fulton August 2016

South Fulton AUGUST 2016

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SouthFultonLifestyle.com

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™

FINDING YOUR

BACK TO SCHOOL COOL

SOUTH FULTON’S OWN DISNEY CHANNEL STAR KAMIL MCFADDEN GET A PEEK AT THE NEW WOLF CREEK ELEMENTARY GREAT PRINCIPALS, AWESOME SCHOOLS, AND STAR STUDENTS A CONVERSATION WITH KIM BEARDEN FROM RON CLARK ACADEMY

Dentistry & Orthodontics for all stages of

Life

Adult Dentistry Children's Dentistry Sedation Dentistry Dr. Kimberly E. Beal Orthodontist

Dr. Kaneta R. Lott Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

30 YEARS CARING FOR SOUTHWEST ATLANTA

2440 Fairburn Road SW, Suite 301, Atlanta

FamilyandChildrensDentistry.com

404.349.7777

Lifestyle Letter

Just Keep Swimming H

AUGUST 2016 publisher

Michelle Willis | Michelle.Willis@LifestylePubs.com

i South Fulton!

Y'all know the old adage that you can't teach an old dog new tricks? Sometimes you're too busy "adulting" to try something new. I was fortunate enough to hang out with about twenty other military widows at a retreat here in Me with my roommate our beautiful city of Atlanta. A staycation of sorts. It was a Jackie Kirk Syverson of pleasure to play hostess and take the ladies around the city, Destin, FL Photo by Bevin Landrum, TAPS from Ponce to downtown to Sweet Auburn to Castleberry Hill. We delighted in the food and entertainment that our world-class city had to offer. But none of that was new.

The new part consisted of our activities, designed to bond us in sisterhood and help us navigate the grief process. We swam with the whale sharks in the Georgia Aquarium, as a part of their Veterans Immersion program. I'm an avid swimmer, I was a lifeguard in high school and I come from a family of SCUBA divers. But nothing I've ever experienced compares with floating alongside over 500 sea animals, including the swift sea turtle, gigantic manta rays and particularly the colossal whale sharks who delighted in brushing up against a bunch of terrified swimmers. I've never felt at once so minute, so insignificant while simultaneously sure of my place in the world and so at peace. I'm still here for a reason, a purpose. And like the fish that come in every color of the rainbow, I realized that I'm perfectly designed and fearfully and wonderfully made and so are you.

So South Fulton, I challenge you to harness that feeling. The nervousness and excitement that I experienced in the giant tank are not unlike the feelings our kids are having as they transition from one school to the next, from one level to the higher one. New backpack filled with shiny new packs of pencils and paper (Is everything electronic now?), anticipation mixes with a little fear of the unexpected as they carefully select their outfits for the first day (Check out the editorial fashion spread of cool outfits provided by the GAP at the Avenues in Peachtree City). First impressions hold such a huge importance. Give your first-day-of-Kindergarten self a pep talk: "Go for it. Take a chance.

Have some fun. Make a new friend." Then take your own advice.

PS. Please don't forget that the Best of South Fulton is right around the corner.

We will showcase the best businesses in our community in the October issue! Make your voice heard! To view the categories and to vote for an excellent local business, please visit BestOfSouthFulton.com. Please don't forget to use #BOSF, #SOFU, and #SouthFultonLifestyle on all your social media outlets!

Erikka Mitchell, Editor

SouthFultonLifestyle.com

younger brother on KC Undercover on the Disney Channel.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMMIE TER-VEEN PHOTOGRAPHY 4

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

publisher assistant

Donna Dow copy editor

Azrielle Roundtree contributing writers

Christina Hayes Miller, Jennifer Jefferson, Collin Shamley contributing photographers

Tiffany Powell Photography, Tammie Ter-Veen Photography, J Amezqua south fulton lifestyle

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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.

2016

CONCERT SERIES AUGUST

6 13 20 27

LINEUP

THE AFFORDABLE OLD SCHOOL CONCERT SERIES EVENING UNDER THE STARS MUSIC FESTIVAL THE WOLF CREEK FUNK SERIES A NIGHT OF CLASSIC R & B

UPCOMING...

SAT, AUGUST 6 - 6:30pm | THE AFFORDABLE OLD SCHOOL CONCERT SERIES Featuring 112, Jagged Edge, Silk, Kilo, and Bobby V

SAT, AUGUST 13 - 7:00pm | EVENING UNDER THE STARS MUSIC FESTIVAL Featuring Johnny Gill Zapp and Special Guest

SAT, AUGUST 20 - 6:30pm | THE WOLF CREEK FUNK SERIES Featuring Morris Day and the Time, Midnight Star, Rose Royce, and Brick

SAT, AUGUST 27 - 6:30pm | A NIGHT OF CLASSIC R & B Blackstreet, featuring Teddy Riley and David Hollister, Joe and Eric Benet

FRI, SEPTEMBER 2 - 6:30pm | THE WOLF CREEK JAZZ FESTIVAL Featuring Boney James, Gerald Albright, Pieces of A Dream, and David Benoit

SAT, SEPTEMBER 3 - 2:00pm | THE WOLF CREEK JAZZ FESTIVAL Featuring Peter White, Euge Groove, Rachelle Ferrell, Najee, Paul Taylor, Jeff Lorber, and Cindy Bradley

SUN, SEPTEMBER 4 - 2:00pm | THE WOLF CREEK JAZZ FESTIVAL Featuring Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Norman Brown, Rick Braun, Josh Vietti, Alex Bugnon, Vincent Ingala, and Ragan Whiteside

SAT, SEPTEMBER 10 - 6:30pm | THE AFFORDABLE OLD SCHOOL CONCERT SERIES Featuring Bobby Brown, Faith Evans, and Avant

SAT, SEPTEMBER 17 - 6:30pm | THE WOLF CREEK FUNK SERIES Featuring Cameo, The SOS Band, Klymaxx, and Cherrelle

MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED...

TO PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE Please visit us at www.wolfcreekamphitheater.com.

TO CHARGE BY PHONE Contact Ticket Alternative at 877-725-8849.

Visit www.wolfcreekamphitheater.com/ticket-retail-outlets to view our list of retail outlets.

August 2016

Departments

22

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

16

Now Open

18

Open House

34

Local Limelight

36

Hometown Hero

38

Lifestyle Calendar

42

Parting Thoughts

20 Visionary in Education

Ron Clark Academy Co-Founder Kim Bearden Answers SFL’s Questions

22 Kamil Uncovered

South Fulton's Own Disney Channel Star Reveals All

26 How to Master Back to School Cool

Fashion Tips that Will Help You Nail it on the First Day

20

26

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Good Times

United Way of Greater Atlanta Young Professional Leaders Hosts Second Annual signature event, “Night for a Brighter Tomorrow” at Ventanas

South Fulton’s own Juanda Roberts led the 2015-2016 YPL Board, raising $70K for UWGA Kid’s Home Initiative, tackling childhood homelessness. The event featured The Cartel Band and an OMG Booth. YPL is proud that the Kid’s Home Initiative will serve 30 additional families for a year, helping over 50 children.

8

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

Pearls of Purpose Foundation, Inc. Hosts 29th Annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon “First in Service Honoring Military Women Launching New Dimensions of Service” The Pearls of Purpose Foundation, Inc., established by the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc®, hosted the annual event, chaired by Dr. Jessalyn Askew. Over $30,000 in scholarships were awarded to twelve Atlanta High School Seniors to assist with their undergraduate studies. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARNELL WILLIAMS.

President Dawn B. Griffin and event chairman, Dr. Jessalyn Askew, present “The Ethel Hedgeman Lyle” Award to Ms. Donna Lowry

Mrs. Marsha Lewis Brown, 17th South Atlantic Regional Director, Dr. Lucretia Payton Stewart, 13th South Atlantic Regional Director, Ms. Shevawn Broxton Young, Cluster V Coordinator, Dr. Paula Booker Brown and Dr. Joy Jackson Guilford

SOUTHWEST MAXILLOFACIAL S URGERY & I MPLANT C ENTER JACQUES L. GORDON, D.M.D. Diplomate, American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

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www.OralSurgeryGA.com August 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle

9

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

WESTLAKE PRINCIPAL ALEXANDRA BATES NAMED PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR FOR FULTON COUNTY Alexandra Bates

of the TFA Teacher Leadership Development (TLD) Advisory Council, Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), and National Council of Teacher of Mathematics. Mrs. Bates also contributes to the development of new leaders through Columbia University Teachers College as a leadership coach for their Summer Principal’s Academy.

Bates, a native of New York, is in her 16th year of service as an educator. She began her career as a classroom teacher in elementary, but also spent some years as a middle school math teacher. Mrs. Bates attended Boston College earning a Bachelor

a

of Arts Degree in sociology, human development and theology

col-

and then a Master’s Degree from Regent University in curriculum

whose

and instruction. She also earned an Education Specialist Degree

life’s purpose has been to

from Columbia University. Bates believes that educators have the

ensure that each student

responsibility to ensure that students are empowered to achieve

reaches his or her maxi-

at the highest levels regardless of the obstacles. It is her passion

mum potential. Her focus

and life’s work to accomplish this goal. The resilience, integrity,

on

and courage she has developed in the 16 years of education have

focused, laborative

is

In addition to her work in schools she contributes to the educational community as an advocate for students as a member

innovative, leader

rigorous

classroom

instruction, student data,

prepared Mrs. Bates to be a reflective and proactive leader.

and professional develop-

Mrs. Bates is honored and pleased to continue the tradition of

ment have yielded positive

scholarship, excellence, and service at Westlake High School as

student learning outcomes.

its Principal.

Her record is stellar, making

Westlake

a

beacon

from which other high schools borrow ideas. As principal of

SHANNON WAY RENAMED STUDIO WAY IN UNION CITY

Westlake High School she has made a meaningful impact- 1st

Union City Mayor Vince Williams and City Council has given

ever National Merit Finalist, increased the graduation rate by at

final approval to renaming the street leading to Atlanta Metro

least 5 points each year, increased the CCRPI score to be the

Studios as Studio Way. The unanimous decision during their

lead school in the South Learning Community (SLC), but also

CONTINUED >

surpassing schools in the north end of Fulton’s district, created structures and protocols to ensure Westlake focus is on student development, and by building the capacity of teachers and leaders with the building. As an assistant principal at Westlake High School, she made a tremendous impact in the areas of teaching and learning. As the administrator serving the math, science and magnet departments, some of her most noteworthy accomplishments include: targeted professional development, 29% increase in GPS Geometry score, a 27% increase Physical Science scores, and increases in AP Calculus. Additionally, she played a vital role with the Come West 8 program and Westlake’s recently accepted International Baccalaureate application for candidacy.

Before coming to Westlake, she was identified as an exceptional educator by Columbia University’s Teachers College and Teach For America (TFA) which led to her receiving a principal fellowship. As a Data Support Specialist, Mrs. Bates had a tremendous impact on student achievement by facilitating data driven professional development and increasing the visibility, utilization, and analysis of students data in all content area which lead in double digit gains for the schools that she served.

10

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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School

G

etting kids ready to start the school year involves more than buying school supplies and shopping for new clothes. There are many things you can do to help ensure your kid(s) are prepared for a healthy and productive school year. The following three tips are a great start.

1. Get vaccinated You, your partner and your children should all get vaccinated as early as possible in the school year. Talk to your children's health care provider and your doctor to find out which ones are recommended, and consider getting the flu vaccine, too. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older.

2. Teach good hygiene habits Kids don't always listen when parents tell them to wash their hands before eating, after using the bathroom, or when they come inside from playing. But it's a message worth repeating — hand washing is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep kids from getting sick and from bringing germs home. You should also instruct them not to share food or drinks with other kids, as this is another easy way germs are transferred.

3. Set bedtimes It's essential for kids (and adults!) to get a healthy amount of sleep each night to stay focused throughout the day.

Although sleep requirements vary somewhat among individuals, most adults need about eight hours of sleep each night, and children and adolescents typically need more than eight hours. To get your kids ready to wake up earlier for school, consider making their bedtimes a little earlier each night for a week or two before school starts.

Sticking to a routine is important too, so try to not let weekends become late-night free-for-alls.

Following these easy tips along with other common sense approaches will help your children enjoy a safe and healthy school year.

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August 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle

11

Around Town

(CON TI N U ED)

Regular Session meeting in June officially changed the name of

GELC OPENS MY BROTHER'S HOUSE SHELTER

Shannon Way to Studio Way. The City has welcomed the devel-

Georgia Educational Learning Center, Inc. was awarded a

opment with open arms and is looking forward to hosting large-

3-year grant in 2015 by the Department of Health & Human

scale film and television productions in its community. Atlanta

Services, Administration for Children & Families, Administration

Metro Studios is led by partners Ed Richardson and Brian Livesay.

for Children and Families, Administration on Children, Youth,

A LADY NAMED PEARL HOLDS GRADUATION FOR LEADERSHIP ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP A Lady Named Pearl’s Leadership Academy recently had a 2 - Day

and Families and the Family and Youth Service Bureau to operate a Runaway and Homeless Shelter for youth (ages 10-17) in the Atlanta Metropolitan area. The Shelter leadership staff includes the Executive Director Dr. Genola Johnson, Shelter Director Mike Daniels and Shelter Manager Kimberlee McGinty.

Summer Camp. The camp's focus was to improve posture, increase

The shelter, affectionately called "My Brother’s House," pro-

confidence, and learn

vides 4 residential beds and is staffed 24-hours a day. My Brother's

etiquette, with the uti-

House was opened in March 2016 as a resource for male youth

lization of modeling

who are experiencing homelessness with a focus on increasing

and leadership train-

their safety, well—being and self-sufficiency. The staff imple-

ing. News Personality

ments essential intervention strategies that are trauma-informed

Tacoma Perry, visited

in all aspects which supports young people to facilitate healing

the camp, and talked

and recovery and includes engagement or reunification with

to the girls about the

families when it is appropriate. Youth residing at the shelter are

importance of hav-

given opportunities that can help them to reach positive devel-

ing S.M.A.R.T. Goals.

opmental milestones and become healthy, productive adults that

Yasmine Clement of

will enhance their skills, competencies, and existing strengths.

Giorgio Armani Beauty talked to the girls about the importance of skin care. Celebrity Stylist, Teaira Blount (Styled by Teaira) talked to our students about what every girl should have in her closet.

The camp ended with the girls doing a presentation on overcoming obstacles, and staying focused on their goals. Both the girls and their parents raved about the camp: “Thank you Pearl for bringing out the best in [my daughter]! She has definitely become more confident, articulate and poised since coming to your Modeling & Leadership Academy, said Lillian Blades. Student De’ Anna Liz stated, “Thank you for helping me gain confidence in what I do and pushing me to achieve greatness. You have given me confidence in my walk and myself.”

GEARING UP FOR DRAGON BOATS – FREE PRACTICE SESSION SATURDAYS IN FAYETTE COUNTY IN AUGUST

EDITOR’S NOTE: In June's Men of South Fulton feature, there were a couple of

In conjunction with the Peachtree City Rotary Club 9th Annual

errors in the portion of the article on Zedrick Carter. He is 40

Dragon Boat Races and International Festival in September, there

years old, not 42. He is a certified fitness and sports performance

will be free Dragon Boat crew practices on the second Saturday

trainer that specializes in training individuals and athletes of all

in August. The public is invited, whether you plan on entering

sports spiritually, mentally and physically in natural body devel-

a boat or not. The next practice will be Saturday August 13 at 3:00

opment and muscle endurance building to reach top peak per-

p.m. at Lake McIntosh. All paddles, life jackets, and boats are pro-

formance in their fitness goals and respective sports. He doesn't

vided. Wear boating clothes, sunscreen, and "wettable" shoes.

teach any specific sport. His company Precision Athletic Corps

Normal water safety rules (no practice during threat of thunder

is located right here in South Fulton at 4826 Fulton Industrial

storms) will apply. It's challenging and fun! If you'd like to come

Boulevard SW Atlanta, GA 30336.

earlier, they will be training/practicing Steering and Coaching.

“My goal is to bring a strong health and fitness awareness

Paddlers are needed for that, too – no experience necessary. For

to the South Fulton community through my Precision Athletic

more info, visit PTCDragonBoats.org. More on this in our sister

Corps Fitness Bootcamps,” he says. “I believe partnerships

publication Fayette County Lifestyle.

with many of the South Fulton schools, businesses, community CONTINUED >

12

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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13

Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

subdivisions, County Recreational Department and other South Fulton County Government Departments we can develop a more health and wellness minded community.”

Zedrick Carter’s wife Tanetta’s company is Precision Auxiliary Corps and she does the same but for young ladies in competitive baton and flag twirling, dance and tumbling.

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BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their dren to join the magic on their 2017 trip! In order to qualify, children must be between the ages of 5 and 12, be diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, and have never been to Walt Disney World®. The family must be struggling with financial hardships and live in the radio listening area of The Bert Show, a nationally syndicated morning radio show based in Atlanta, Georgia. The Bert Show can be heard on All the Hits Q100 - 99.7FM. All applications must be submitted by Friday, October 13, 2016. For more information see BertsBigAdventure.org.

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15

Now Open

The 4 ‘S’s of Kid’s Eyeglasses ARTICLE DR. DANIELLE JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

S

ummer vacation is coming to an end. Back-to-school to-do lists are beginning. An eye exam for every school-aged child should be on the list.

It can be difficult to determine if your child is struggling with their vision. Many of us parents rely on yearly screenings administered by a school or health center to alert us of any problems with our children’s eyes. It is often, and incorrectly, assumed that if a child can pass the screening, they have perfectly healthy eyes and no more thought should be given toward their visual system. However, many school screenings only test for clear distance vision, which is only a small piece of the puzzle. Keep the following 4 categories in mind to help determine if your child’s eye health needs extra attention.

SCHOOL

Getting your child’s eyes checked by an eye care professional is a quick way to prevent unnecessary struggles during the school year. A comprehensive eye exam not only checks visual acuity (the ability to see small things up close and at a distance), but also color vision, depth perception, eye muscle coordination, focusing ability, and the health of the structure of the eyes. Many of these things can go undetected because children have no way of knowing what “normal” vision is. One in four children have vision problems that can affect learning and behavior.

SPORTS

It may be necessary for your child to wear corrective lenses while playing sports. Decreased physical performance can be the result of poor depth perception and/or eye coordination. Instead of his everyday glasses, consider a pair of prescription safety glasses. The frames are made to wrap the face for a more snug and secure grip, and the lenses are made out of impact resistant polycarbonate or Trivex. The lenses can even be tinted in colors proven to enhance athletic performance.

SCREEN

Research has shown that blue light from computer screens, smartphones and tablets can have lasting effects on our eyes. The light can potentially damage the nerve cells in the back of our eyes, interfere with sleep patterns and can cause symptoms of ADD in children. A pair of glasses complete with an advanced blue light filter can be worn during screen time to greatly reduce these risks.

16

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

THESE BEHAVIORS ARE RED FLAGS TO LOOK OUT FOR:

> Frequent eye rubbing or blinking > Short attention span > Avoiding reading and other close activities > Covering one eye > Tilting head to one side > Holding reading material close to the face > An eye turning in or out > Seeing double > Losing place when reading > Difficulty remembering what he reads

SUN

Everyone can benefit from the extra UV protection of sunglasses.

Children usually spend more time outdoors and tend to have larger pupils. This means that their eyes are more at risk to damage from the sun’s rays in the form of cataracts, macular degeneration and skin cancers. Transitions Kids coated lenses can make sun protection easy by automatically tinting your child’s prescription lenses when he steps into the sun. For the best defense against ultra-violet rays, polarized lenses are the only option. Not only do they block more UV light than any other lenses or coatings, but they also reduce bothersome glares.

Vision problems can become behavioral problems if not detected and treated early. For children with rapidly changing eyes, it may be necessary to update the glasses prescription as often as every six months. Keep an eye on your child’s vision. Don’t forget to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to ensure his visual system is functioning properly and protected.

Where your Child's Health Comes First New Patients Welcome!

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August 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle

17

Open House

Y

oung children starting new care or learning experiences often struggle during the start of a new school year. Below are a few tips to best support your family, the community of educators and your child during the transition to a new school.

Students that are experiencing a new environment and new schedule may exhibit different behaviors to communicate their fear or discomfort. There are some students that adapt easily and will have a great experience from the onset. However, tears at drop off are the most common behavior that parents will experience during the first 30 to 90 days. Gradually during this

period of adjustment, parents and caregivers will see improvement until the child has built a trusting relationship with the new community.

Examples of different behaviors may include, decrease in appetite or increased preference for a special type of food. Another child can seem withdrawn during activities or shy until they have built relationships with their new classmates. Regardless of the type of behavior, when there is a strong school-family relationship one will often start to see improvements during the adaptation period.

WHAT TO EXPECT HOME-TO-SCHOOL TRANSITIONS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY RAQUEL PAULINO, DIRECTOR, LITTLE LINGUISTS INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL IN EAST POINT

> Tips to support very young children -Bring comfort items (teddy, blanket, pacifiers) -Use similar language during drop off, “Mommy/Daddy always comes back after nap.”

-Expect accidents or slight regression in a new environment

> Tips for all ages

> Kids books and other resources to support transitions

-Allow time for the adjustment -Give caregivers/teachers enough information about your student

-The Kissing Hand (1993) by Audrey Penn

-Focus on the positive experiences: snack, recess, sports or special planned activities

-I Love You All Day Long (2004) by

> Tips for parents

-Long goodbyes and re-entry after departure can make a difficult start for your young one.

the

Mincey l aw p r ac t i c e

Francesca Rusackas -LITTLE children BIG Challenges: Bye, Bye

-Get to know your providers in order to build a great teacher-family relationship

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K

im Bearden is co-founder, executive director, and language arts teacher at the highly acclaimed Ron Clark Academy, an innovative middle school and educator training facility in South Atlanta. Kim was recently honored at the White House for being named to the National Teachers Hall of Fame.

She was selected from over 70,000 nominations to be honored as the Disney American Teacher Awards Outstanding Middle School Humanities Teacher. The Milken Family Foundation selected her to receive the Award for Excellence in Education, and she was chosen from among 7000 teachers as Teacher of the Year in Cobb County, Georgia.

Bearden is a keynote speaker with Premiere Speakers Bureau. Each year she speaks to thousands of educators across the country and around the world to inspire them and teach them methods for engaging and motivating students. Over the past twenty-nine years, she has been a teacher, instructional lead teacher, curriculum director, school board member, staff development trainer, and middle school principal.

Bearden has a unique way of showing her students what they learn in the classroom applies to real life. She became known for how she transitioned her classroom into different learning environments to teach her students curriculum standards in a way that inspired creativity and passion while teaching required context. For example, when her classroom was transformed into the Bearden Emergency Medical Center, the students quickly reported to their operating tables and prepared themselves for surgery.

Bearden often finds herself alone in her classroom, sitting in the desks of her

20

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

Kim Bearden ARTICLE COLLIN SHAMLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J AMEZQUA AND PROVIDED

Ron Clark Academy Faculty

students and pondering better ways to develop the relationships that are necessary in order to teach them all well. She thinks about the students that challenge her most and she meditates on all that is good within them. When she looks at her students, she truly believes in what they can become, in addition to who they already are.

I had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Bearden, who is a phenomenal person on top of being a great teacher.

SFL: WHAT IS A FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE BEEN ON WITH YOUR STUDENTS?

For me the trip to South Africa. I’ve been blessed to go several times. That’s always been the most meaningful for me because I’ve been able to spend the most time getting to know the children in South Africa. I actually have three adopted sons from South Africa. While there, our students are able to spend the most time in classrooms and interacting with kids and visiting orphanages.

Just the beauty of the people there and the joy and the resilience of the people despite the difficult circumstances that many of them live in is very inspiring to me and very transformational.

SFL: CAN YOU RECALL A SPECIFIC SITUATION WHERE A STUDENT

TAUGHT YOU SOMETHING?

Oh goodness! I wrote a whole book about that. I guess a better answer to that would be I have a whole book I wrote called Crash Course: The Life Lessons My Students Taught Me. And actually the whole book is about lessons I learned from my students, the lessons and everything from resilience, gratitude, the importance of play, laughter, joy, optimism, those kinds of things. Even through difficult times and circumstances and times that I have gone through in my life, I would always look to my students and see how strong they were and resilient and forgiving and loving they were despite their circumstances. And I would draw from that and get through very tough times in my personal life. We all have ups and downs and so my students have been a sanctuary for me almost at times and I’ve learned from them. So that’s why I chose to write an entire book about the lessons that they instilled in me.

SFL: WHAT CAREER WOULD YOU HAVE CHOSEN IF YOU WERE NOT

A TEACHER?

I was one of those people who always wanted to be a teacher. I was one of those people who always loved school. I went to the University of Georgia, like you. I always loved to write so I thought about being a journalism major going into Broadcast Journalism. That was something I considered but when it came down to it I really wanted to be in a school with children every day.

SFL: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT

WITH YOUR STUDENTS?

I’m a very big family person. I’m fortunate that now I have a very large family. I have three adopted sons. I have a daughter who is 26 and I have a wonderful husband. Honestly our house is kind of the house where everybody comes. It’s not always tidy but that doesn’t seem to be what matters. It’s the house that all of our staff members

come to hang out and well as my former students and my alumni. This weekend I had four of our alumni from our school stay at my house while they were in town as well as a house-full of other kids. I love being in the backyard, kids playing ball, cookouts and just being with the family. That kind of thing is important to me because I work so much and I work really hard. Time to relax is important too.

SFL: IS THERE A PARTICULAR CLASS YOU HAD OR GROUP OF

STUDENTS THAT YOU’D SAY IS YOUR FAVORITE?

No. I’ve loved every group of kids I ever had. I am very fortunate. But I will say that the original class of students who came to the academy the year we opened [is very special]… We opened the academy in 2007 with 60 students. The students helped to create what our school is today.

Ron and I get credit for being the co-founders of the school but really those initial students that were there were sort of founders of the school as well. They helped us to establish the culture and climate of our school and to help think of some of the conditions and things we practice today at our school. I think because we built something together as teachers and as students I think there is a level of a bond with those kids that can’t be broken. I don’t think anyone can completely understand but I feel like we were all brought together for a divine purpose those first few years with those particular students because we had great work we wanted to do in the future. I’ve been teaching for 29 years and so I’m very fortunate that I’ve had so many kids that I love equally and I’ve taught thousands of kids over the years.

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Kamil ARTICLE E. B. DRAKE PHOTOGRAPHY TAMMIE TER-VEEN

K

amil McFadden is not your average 19 year old. While other guys around his age are just beginning to figure out what they want to do in life, Kamil is already successfully working in his career and is planning his next one. Kamil McFadden stars as Ernie Cooper in the Disney Channel hit show, K.C. Undercover, currently airing its second season. Kamil does a remarkable job portraying his character, Ernie. He and Ernie even have a few things in common. They both wear glasses, both are driven and smart, and they both know what its like to have a successful older sibling. That’s where the differences end. I caught up with Kamil while he was running errands with his mom in California.

Kamil lives in California most of the year because of his filming schedule, but he was quick to state, “Atlanta is home for me.” Kamil and his family moved to College Park when he was only months old.

Raised by his mother, with help from his grandmother, Kamil could not imagine growing up any where else.

“It impacted who I am as a person. Atlanta instilled some of the values of kindness, respectfulness, hospitality and a great work ethic that I have today. I still have that hospitality. People tell my mom that they enjoy working with me and that I’m down to earth.” The depth of the love that Kamil has for his mother is evident when he speaks of her. “My mom is amazing. She is my superhero.” He credits his mom’s sacrifice and her encouragement for allowing him and his brother, Kimario, to realize their dreams. She is a role model of strength and perseverance for him. While growing up, she imbued Kamil and Kimario with the confidence that they would need in order to compete and be successful in challenging fields. Kimario currently plays in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. “She 22

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

put her all into us and our dreams. To see that strength, she exhibited a lot of strength, that’s why we are so confident. She cultivated it. I appreciated everything that she did. There are not enough words in the world to express how grateful I am to her.”

Because Kamil’s talent was recognized at an early age, it was suggested that Kamil audition for the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta (YEA).

“They helped mold my skills. They helped me become the actor that I am today.” They also helped him develop his burgeoning dancing and singing skills. His first professional performance was in Atlanta in a play on the Morehouse College campus called Times; it dealt with issues regarding HIV and AIDS. Theatre is still one of Kamil’s passions, but not the only one. “I fell in love with comedy during our Urban Holiday Soup performances, which is YEA’s annual sketch comedy show.” Growing up in Atlanta, Kamil couldn’t help but to develop an appreciation for music.

He made use of his newly developed singing skills from YEA very quickly. In 2010, Kamil

Atlanta instilled some of the values of kindness, respectfulness, hospitality and a great work ethic that I have today. I still have that hospitality.

Tammie Ter-Veen Photography Stylist: Kitty Weddie Hair and Makeup: Dedra Sumaylo

performed in I Dream, a musical drama about the life of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. I Dream; debuted at the Alliance Theater and was directed by Jasmine Guy. “It was a great experience. I’m glad that I was able to be a part of it,” he reflects. Kamil and Jasmine Guy would work together again four years later, but this time as peers on the set of his TV show, K.C. Undercover. “She didn’t recognize me. I’ve gotten taller and older. My voice is deeper.”

As Kamil continues to reflect on his varied accomplishments, he remembers that his mother encouraged him to write down his dreams, so that he would have tangible goals to work towards. One of the goals he wrote down was to work with Tyler Perry. A few weeks after completing that exercise, Kamil accomplished it by successfully auditioning for Tyler Perry Studios. He landed two episodes on the House of Payne. “That was an amazing experience.” One would think that working around big named celebrities would have Kamil star struck, but knowing his craft and doing a good job comes first

for him. “It’s not about who else was there [on set]. It’s about me and my performance.”

He also realized early on, “They [celebrities] are just regular people. They are known for their talents, but they are just normal people”. Armed with these facts has mentally leveled the playing field for Kamil. Not only has he showcased his talents on stage and the small screen, but he also has seen success on the big screen. One of his most remembered roles on the big screen is as Bumpty, a standout and hilarious character who plays alongside Chris Rock in Grown Ups 2.

Kamil’s advice to aspiring actors is straightforward and simple. “To all the aspiring actors, do what you love and just go for it. Believe in yourself. You have to have confidence and determination. You will have to be ready to sacrifice, if it’s something that you really want. You have to have perseverance. You will get a lot of “No’s” in this business. You shouldn’t take it as rejection. You have to keep grinding. Believe in yourself.”

Kamil’s success did not happen overnight.

He learned not to internalize it when he didn’t get parts. He was told “No” multiple times over his first three years after relocating to California. “I take that as a blessing.

Those ‘No’s’ help prepare me for projects that were for me, like Grown Ups2. I felt as though that part was for me.” It took five years of hearing “No” from Disney, before he received his Yes. Kamil understood though, that it was not personal. He realized that the roles that he did not attain, were roles that were not meant for him. His preparation had to line up with just the right opportunity and his perseverance paid off with attaining his role on K.C. Undercover.

Kamil's dreams don't stop there. At some point, he would like to go to college and study foreign languages. “I also want to get into other areas of the business as well; writing, directing, producing, and maybe even music.” Perhaps he'll even have a studio in Atlanta one day.

The sky is the limit for this rising star. Kamil thanks his fans for their support and invites them to follow him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram @Kamil_McFadden. Watch Kamil, as Ernie Cooper, on K.C. Undercover on the Disney Channel or DisneyChannel.com.

August 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle

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T

hey’ve already group chatted about the new school year. They are excited about making new friends and seeing old ones. You want to make sure they feel confident in their skin when they finally look up from their devices to make eye contact with you or anyone else. Summer is closing and it’s time to refocus all energy on education, but not without a little style and some creativity. Here are a few tips to make this school year the best school year in fashion and the best school year in spending.

LAYER UP. It’s easy to buy for Winter and Summer, but it’s the seasons in between that create fashion woes.

Layering is a good way to keep up with the temperature and its spontaneity inside and outside of the classroom.

Adding layers instead of bulky outwear creates the opportunity to sprinkle in a little creativity. Whether it’s a graphic tee under a button down or a cool sweater that can easily be thrown in a backpack midday, the ease of peeling off a layer of clothing will be more appealing than drag> Hair, Makeup and Styling ging around a jacket they won’t need after noon.

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BACK TO SCHOOL COOL (CON TI N U ED)

case items. Our kids don’t have that luxury and it seems as though our kids’ lives are becoming as busy as ours. Make sure that their backpacks keep up with their lifestyle. Compartments and durability is the key. Does it hold their electronics in a safe, protected place, while making room for lunch or a change of clothes? Are the straps on the bag durable enough to hold up to all their AP textbooks? Sometimes, you may have to opt for different bags for different needs or opt for an additional collapsible bag that holds, say, smelly footwear away from their snacks – which is a savings in the long run.

SIZE IT UP. Keep in mind that the cut of the clothing factors into the longevity of it for more than style. It’s not a matter of whether skinny jeans are in or out but rather if they still fit six months later. A looser more forgiving fit can help increased the life of the item and lessens turnover. But this is no excuse for baggy, ill-fitting clothing.

PLAN EARLY. It’s easy to get creative with your shopping needs when you have time to do so. If you have a list of items you know you need to buy for the school year – shop early and often. Don’t let a sale go by without some forethought. No one likes shopping in crowded stores and waiting in long fitting room lines. Also, don’t forget about cashing in discounts, loyalty rewards and coupons when you’re making large purchases or electronics.

CHECK THE DRESS CODE. Whether your children attend public or private school, make sure you know the requirements. Check with the school to determine what is needed for the new year. One of the most annoying phone calls to get is a call from your child’s school saying that your child is out of dress code. It’s a completely preventable interruption that can be avoided if you have all the correct information.

Don’t be afraid to contact the school to ask for any changes in the dress code policy. And if your child likes to push the boundaries of the dress code, have a conversation with the school upfront to confront the issue before school starts. Keep in mind that creativity should be rewarded, but it shouldn’t also be a distraction.

RESTOCK THE BASICS. Does he need new shoes for choir? Does she need new athletic wear for gym? Are there leftover supplies from last year? Take inventory of the well-loved and make a list of what needs to be replaced. It’s easy to overdose on the trendy. Your kids want what they want, but what’s the point of buying something that they won’t want merely three months from now. And, if you happen to be shopping in advanced, steering away from the basics means wasting money in the long run. Keep your trendier items to a minimum. However, don’t deny your kids all the fun. Apply the 80/20 rules to the needs/wants list. Spend 80 percent of your back to school budget on necessities and let your kids have some fun with the rest. Assure them that their prime picks need to last them for the rest of the year. That should settle their little minds until the holidays because they don’t NEED the Apple watch before school starts.

STICK TO THE LIST. It’s tempting to veer off the list as a parent. We can be easily sidetracked. We can fall into the trap of “he probably needs that” or “she should have that” or “isn’t that cute” and throw it in the shopping cart especially if your shopping cart is virtual. In the heat of the moment of moving through our checklist, we buy things sporadically and realize later – surprised by its delivery or the credit card bill – that we spent more money than we intended.

Monitor online shopping. Avoiding the lines at the local stores before school starts is easy thanks to Amazon and your favorite stores’ websites. Delegating a duty to your teenager like ordering their school supplies and back to school necessities teaches them responsibility and how to budget. However, make sure that kids are shopping based on their needs and their age. Make sure clothes and supplies are age appropriate and not offensive. Again, no surprises in the principal’s office.

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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WOLF CREEK elementary From the Ground Up SFL Interviews Dionne Glass, Principal of the Brand New School on Derrick Road ARTICLE AS TOLD TO ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

D

ionne Glass is a visionary school leader devoted to creating a positive school culture and climate that embodies high expectations, rigor, and active engagement for students. Glass is a highly skilled, student-focused instructional leader committed to creating success for all school stakeholders. She is a responsible professional with exceptional communication skills and a proven history of intentional efforts to build relationships with the community-at-large and engage in meaningful collaborative work to move schools forward.

Mrs. Glass is a wife, mother, community servant and principal of the Wolf Creek Elementary School. She is a veteran educator with 25 years of educational experience. In her role as a school administrator, she has provided dedicated service to her staff, students, parents and a host of community stakeholders in the East Point and College Park communities. She works tirelessly to build a culture of high academic achievement. She facilitates the growth of aspiring leaders by encouraging best practices. She believes in increasing student literacy through the implementation of a balanced literacy approach while integrating across all curriculum areas. Innovative teaching and learning, active student participation, rigorous and engaging classroom instruction and building community partnerships are among her highest priorities.

Most recently prior to opening Wolf Creek ES, Glass served as principal of Brookview Elementary. She has also served in the capacity of assistant principal, curriculum support teacher, and classroom teacher in the East Point/College Park community. Glass believes in giving back to her community; she was raised and educated in this very same community. She has a vested interest in the success of the students she serves.

Glass is a graduate of Jackson State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She also holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Georgia State University.

“I have a strong belief that educators have the greatest influence on our youth. We provide the foundation for learning and help mold children into who they will become. I believe in educating the “total” child so that they will be the best person that they can be. Each day with each student should be a day where we have made a difference! I believe that children we serve should know that they are better because we touched their lives.”

In

her spare time, Mrs. Glass enjoys spending time with her husband, their blended family and her very energetic 6 year old son. She contributes to her community through her involvement in various activities sponsored by her community service CONTINUED >

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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WOLF CREEK ELEMENTARY (CON TI N U ED)

part of weekly Capital Improvement Program meetings where construction updates are provided and input is solicited for the site. Site walk-throughs have afforded me the opportunity to see the building develop from the ground up.

SFL: WHAT WILL MAKE THE NEW WOLF CREEK ELEMENTARY DIFFERENT FROM OTHER SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT? WHAT NEW IDEAS WILL YOU BRING WITH YOU?

We are excited about what the future holds for WCES. The process of opening the school has been an authentic experience, stimulating community engagement and support. Our stakeholders have been able to actively be a part of the process and take ownership in developing the school’s culture and climate.

Although a traditional Fulton County school in curriculum and instruction design and implementation, we have a unique opportunity to create I believe in educating the total a culture of child and pushing students col laborat ion and learning beyond the status quo. through Fulton County’s Personalized Learning initiative. We will work collaboratively as a team to customize the academic model to individual organizations. South Fulton Lifestyle caught up with the principal to learners’ needs, skills and interests. This fall, school stakeholders ask a few questions. will have the unique opportunity to weigh in on the instructional models, providing students with flexible learning options, choice SFL: PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. and voice options, and varied learning strategies to meet their I am a native of College Park, GA and a product of Fulton County needs. Classrooms will have one-on-one technology tools schools. I attended elementary, middle and high school in Fulton to help enhance learning. Our new staff memCounty. I am a 25 year educator of FCS with all of my experience ded- bers have already begun exploring a mulicated to the South Fulton area. I take pride in having had the oppor- titude of research based practices that tunity to lead at the school where I received my earliest educational are options for implementing over experiences, Brookview ES. To be selected to continue my leadership time to enhance student growth endeavors in the South Fulton area at Wolf Creek Elementary is a at Wolf Creek ES. Teachers great honor and charge. The immense responsibility of opening a new are participating in training school affords me the chance to establish a positive culture and climate opportunities in Project Based and create a life-long educational experience for the community. It Learning, Personalized allows me to continue to be of service in my community.

Learning, and International Baccalaureate Programs.

SFL: HOW EXCITING HAS THE PROCESS OF LEADING THE NEW I believe in educating the SCHOOL AND BEING A PART OF THE BUILDING PROCESS BEEN? total child and pushing students This has been an awesome process. I have been able to build a phe- beyond the status quo. Our nomenal team of great classroom and building leaders with a common focus will be on ensuring that our vision to empower students to become accountable in their learning instruction is academically chalprocess. We have a “hodge-podge” of perfection ready to engage and lenging and relevant for each student. move students to high levels of academic achievement and success.

We will focus on building leaders, as Watching the school site develop into a beautiful place of learning we look to become a Leader In Me School. has been a very rewarding experience. Although many of the struc- This initiative focuses on teaching students tural design components are standard, as the instructional leader, 21st Century leadership and life skills and creating a being able to provide input on color schemes and furniture choices culture of student empowerment based on the tenant that every child that support student learning and growth has been great. We are can be a leader! Students will engage in learning the 7 Habits of Highly looking forward to a 21st century style Media Center with collab- Effective People. We are on our way to building Pathways To Success orative learning spaces and reading nooks. I have been able to be a at Wolf Creek Elementary. Let’s go Wolves!

32

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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33

Local Limelight

Kia-Symone Surrell’s

SUCCESS STORY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

K

ia-Symone Surrell was born in Oakland, California to Keiyauna and Alton Surrell. In her early adolescent years, her future was not foreshadowed to be as bright as it is today. While living in California, Kia was besieged by an environment that was unfit for a growing child. She lived in both her father’s and mother’s homes simultaneously after they separated from their violent relationship. However, she could not find peace at either home because of the issues present at both which exposed her to a lifestyle she did not want for herself in the future. In her father’s home, there was always a struggle to provide food. In her mother’s home, she was always surrounded by a plethora of people that created a daily party environment. The decisions her parents made in the past were negatively affecting their lives today and Kia’s as well. Kia’s parents urged her to take a different path than they did, but she refused to listen. Instead of using her circumstances as motivation to change her life, she mirrored her parent’s actions. Earning mediocre grades and acting out in school, Kia was on the road to becoming one of another generation of high school dropouts.

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

In the hopes of creating a better life for Kia, her mother, and sister, her grandmother, Johnnie Curtis, suggested that her mother move them to Atlanta, Georgia for a new beginning. Kia’s mother took her up on the offer and moved them across the country. Kia despised her mother for moving her away from her friends to a place where she knew no one, yet Kia did not know this move would change her life. Hoping Kia’s mother would feel responsible for her misery, Kia began to act in an anti-social manner in school. Having no one to distract her, she actually made an effort to learn and comprehend the material given. Kia found herself invigorated by learning new things and began to find interest in different subjects. Being in a new environment opened Kia’s eyes to a life without constant struggles and something to look forward to in life.

Kia was a leader at her school, involved in several extra-curricular activities such as Varsity Soccer, Varsity Volleyball, Student Governments Association, Technology Students Association, JROTC, Excelsior App Team, National Honors Society, and National Beta Club. Kia has also received academic awards over the duration of her high school years such as, 1st place in the Georgia Technology Fair, 1st place in her school’s science fair, most outstanding in Spanish, English, Science, and AP Statistics. Kia also received the title of Best Defensive Player on the soccer team for the 20152016 school year. Her biggest accomplishments are being named the D.M. Therrell High School’s 2015-2016 Valedictorian and a Gates Millennium Scholar. Kia will attend Howard University in the fall of 2016 to pursue her education in pre-dental studies. Although Kia has received many blessings over these last few months, she experienced the loss of her mother on June 11, 2016. Kia’s mother was very proud to see her graduate and Kia is glad her mother got to experience that momentous occasion with her. Kia is determined to shift this battle into motivation to continue to make her parents proud.

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Hometown Hero

DR. DAN SIMS NAMED ASSOCIATE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS SOUTH FULTON'S OWN AND FULTON COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM VETERAN TAKES THE HELM AS ONE OF A SIX PART LEADERSHIP TEAM ARTICLE COLLIN SHAMLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

D

uring the May Board meeting with the Atlanta Board of Education, Dr. Dan A. Sims was approved as an Associate Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Sims officially began his new role on July 1. Here he will directly support and lead all high school principals and associated leaders as they push for excellence in student achievement. This will include leading a core instructional support team specifically established to provide academic guidance to each school. He is one of a team of six Associate Superintendents who serve directly under the Chief Schools Officer of the district. Dr. Sims currently serves on the Board of Advisors for the Principals Center at GA State University and the Reigning Hope Foundation.

Dr. Sims served as the proud principal of Tri-Cities High School (his Alma Mater) in East Point since 2010. He is a graduate of Georgia State University and has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Leadership. As a high school principal, he was responsible for increases in SAT scores, decreases in student disciplinary infractions, increases in graduation rate, and the development of a supportive and loving climate for students while in school. For the last 21 years, he has been employed with the Fulton County School system as a math teacher, coach, and administrator. Prior to returning to Tri-Cities, Sims served as principal at Paul D. West Middle School from 2003-2010 (a school he attended as a child).

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

Dr. Sims is a product of South Fulton, a shining example of the success students in Fulton County schools can achieve. He really loves this community, saying, “I have spent the better part of my life as a resident of South Fulton, and I am impressed with the obvious commitment to continuous community improvement. We are miles from where we used to be, and there seems to be an ever-growing focus on how we can improve our community for the many families who trust and enjoy living here.”

Dr. Sims and his beautiful wife Traci, also an educator, have been married for 20 years. They have one son – Jordan (13 years old and a Sandtown student) and two daughters – Lauren (in heaven) and Kamille (10 years old and a rising Sandtown student).

Sims is a faithful member of the Simpson Street Church of Christ. He has worshipped there since 1989 as a member. Dr. Sims serves as a youth/ assistant minister and song leader. He also teaches the Adult Sunday School class. His most recent ventures included a visit to Barbados to train principals, deputy principals, and chief officers in the Ministry of Education on Innovative Leadership and School Management.

“SOUTH FULTON HAS PRODUCED AND CONTINUES TO PRODUCE AMAZING PEOPLE. THE FERTILE GROUND OF OUR COMMUNITY HAS HAD A REAL IMPACT ON METROPOLITAN ATLANTA, AND I AM HONORED TO HAVE BEEN RAISED IN THIS AREA. SOUTH FULTON JUST FEELS LIKE HOME. IT ALWAYS HAS. I CONTINUE TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH PEOPLE HERE, AND THIS HAS STRENGTHENED THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY WE HAVE ALWAYS BENEFITTED FROM.” In 2012 Dr. Sims was named Principal of the Year for the Fulton County School System. This year his family was featured in the online version of Ebony Magazine, chosen as one of the “Coolest Black Families in America.” One of his greatest honors is being a 17-year cancer survivor. Dr. Sims’ hobbies include playing golf, baseball, swimming, weight lifting, writing, public speaking, and spending time with his family.

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Lifestyle Calendar

August

AUGUST 2

AUGUST 13 HISTORY OF SERENBE INN AT SERENBE See The Inn at Serenbe grounds, where the first 40 acres were purchased and learn how Serenbe began. Please wear walking shoes as portions of the tour are on uneven terrain. Meet at Guest Services. Contact The Farmhouse beforehand to reserve a table for lunch 770.463.2622. Serenbe.com.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

AUGUST 13

UNION CITY

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National Night Out is organized in efforts to send a message to crim-

HISTORIC OLD FOURTH WARD PARK

inals that neighborhoods are working together and fighting back

Design and build a car, and then race it downhill for prizes, with mu-

against crime. Additionally, it strengthens neighborhoods and police

sic, food trucks, and activities. Ages 4 to Adult. To register and for

and community partnership. For more information about Union City

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Police Department’s National Night Out, contact Sgt. M. Echols at 770.515.7856 or mechols@unioncityga.org or visit UnionCityGA.org.

EVERY WEDNESDAY, AUG 3SEPT 28 6:30-7:30

AUGUST 19 CONCERT IN DOWNTOWN HAPEVILLE JESS LUCAS Y-TEEN PARK Downtown Hapeville comes alive at Jess Lucas Y-teen Park. This se-

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY YOGA IN CENTRAL PARK

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ATLANTIC STATION

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Athleta Atlantic Station and Evolation Yoga join up to bring you another summer season of yoga! Bring your own mat and plan on a

THROUGH AUG 28

complete hour of refreshing stretches designed to help you relax and

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AUGUST 13 & 14 SATURDAY 10-5 SUNDAY 11-5

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AUGUST 27 & 28

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SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL

Featuring up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and

GRANT PARK

metalwork, glass blowers, jewelers, and crafters! The Festival will also

Atlanta art and music lovers flock to Grant Park each August. Two days of

offer artist demonstrations, live acoustic music, an Emerging Artists

outdoor fun planned for all ages including a 5K Run for the Park, food trucks,

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

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business directory ARCHITECTS

Studio H Architectural Planning Environments (404) 487-6043 studioHshape.com

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

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS South Fulton Chamber of Commerce (770) 964-1984 southfultonchamber.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

HEALTH & WELLNESS Barre B (404) 405-1188 barreb.com

D’Lor Spa (404) 344-1622 dloratlanta.com Holistic Occupational and Physical Therapy (678) 755-9405 waterotpt.com Mosaic Moon (404) 205-5965 mosaicmoon.life

Family and Children’s Dentistry Pain 2 Wellness Center (404) 349-7777 (404) 699-0966 familyandchildrensdentistry.com pain2wellness.com Southwest Maxillofacial Surgery and Implant Center (404) 629-6610 southwestomscenter.com

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

EDUCATION

WellStar Atlanta Medical Center (404) 265-6855 atlantamedcenter.com

Arlington Christian School (770) 964-9871 arlingtonchristian.org Little Linguists International Preschool (404) 768-2111 littlelinguistspreschool.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

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Johnson Drywall and Paint (770) 955-1995 johnsondrywall-llc.com

Certified Financial Consulting (770) 729-4492 certifiedfinancialconsulting.com

Legend Roofing (404) 308-4694 legendroofing.com

Pivotal Wealth Management (678) 480-9948 pivotalwm.com

The Best Green Clean (470) 234-5194 thebestgreenclean.com

Vashti Buck, Edward Jones Financial Advisor (770) 942-9442 edwardjones.com

The Flush Brigade (770) 460-6619 theflushbrigade.net

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South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

Unique Tree Beaver (678) 577-0149

INSURANCE

Community Insurance Group (770) 969-0888 Sabarrier Eckward Farmers Insurance Agency (770) 628-0136

LEGAL

The Law Office of Amber Suitt George (470) 231-8970 atlelderattorney.com

OTHER

Greystone Power greystonepower.com Weaver Lawn Care (404) 399-1836 weaverlawncare.org

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Cigaro’s of Georgia (678) 949-9334 cigarosofga.com Empire Lounge (404) 600-8384

The Mincey Law Practice (678) 575-3501 minceylawpractice.com

King’s Donuts (770) 742-0152 facebook.com/thekingsdonuts

LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt (404) 964-6679 menchies.com

Infiniti of South Atlanta (888) 645-3226 infinitiofsouthatlanta.com MARTI Transportation (770) 857-3046 martitransportation.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Alliance Spine and Pain Centers (770) 929-9033 spinepains.com

Panache Bistro (404) 996-6479 panachebistroatl.com Pit Boss BBQ (404) 768-0036 pitboss-bbq.com Tavern - Camp Creek (404) 349-9285 campcreek.thetavernat.com

Atlanta Family Foot Care (404) 334-0696 famfootcare.com

The Vault (678) 846-2624

Atlanta Premier OB/GYN (678) 705-4900 askdrtosha.com

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

Jackson Eye (770) 629-4351 drjacksoneye.com

SALONS & SPAS

Salon Ajee (404) 629-2772

Princeton Lakes Pediatrics (404) 629-1880 princetonlakespeds.com

Salon Atara (404) 254-1588 salonatara.com

Touch of Life Family Chiropractic (404) 369-0998 Touchoflifechiro.com

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Parting Thoughts

Dear Summer WORDS CHRISTINA HAYES MILLER

D

ear Summer, It is almost time to go back to school and I just wanted to share some thoughts with you. Thank you for two whole months of remembering what it was like to be a kid. For us here in the south, summer’s kick off begins with the Memorial Day holiday. Cookouts and festivals were weekly events on our calendars. Just because there were not any books or tests does not mean that learning was not occurring. In your class, I learned that visiting websites such as Atlanta on the Cheap and Groupon are the first places I should check to find out what is going on in and around the city. It made me look a little closer at my spending habits because during the school year I am not as available to go where I please in the middle of the day. Your long, sultry days reminded me of the skills learned in kindergarten and first grade and that dressing appropriately for the weather means looking at the daily forecast. Was it going to be just a hot day, or hot and rainy, or blazing? Not only did monitoring the weather make me think about my attire, but what I planned to do. You see, it is not uncommon during summer days for the morning to begin one way and be something completely different by the afternoon. This meant I had to consider which activities I could get done before noon and which ones could be done later. Thanks to you I have become more expert in elapsed time because I wasn’t watching television! I was outside playing. I was teaching my son to listen for the ice cream truck to pass by. We were busy building sand castles and learning to swim. Summer, the world is your classroom. The constraints of time and place are not the same as they are from September through May. For some reason, chronos gives way to kairos in your classroom.

Although I will miss your laissez-faire approach to teaching, I must admit that I am looking forward to Autumn. She won’t be as easy-going as you are. After all, she begins the season with lists of

42

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2016

items that need to be purchased for bookbags and classrooms. She will make parents take stock of how much their children have grown over the summer and forces us to spend money on things like uniforms and school shoes, not plane tickets and gas for road-trips. She will also order our days so that we must attend to the alarm clock once again as a reminder to start the day. She instructs us to lay out clothes and pack lunches the night before so that we can still be on time, even if we hit the snooze button. Autumn will resume formal lessons in classrooms, in schools. She brings homework and testing anxiety. She will make us question ourselves, our children, and each other more harshly than we do during the summer months. Are we sending our children to the right school? Do they have enough activities to stimulate them? The honest answer is, yes. How do I know? During the summer, I see all of the skills that were learned in Autumn blossom in children as they interact on playgrounds, subways, airports, etc. Autumn prepares us for Winter’s harsher lessons. During Winter’s instruction, we feel far removed from the lessons of Summer. Parents will have to remember to refresh the school supplies and clothes they purchased because Winter demands his own supplies. Spring will take over Winter’s lessons and her syllabus includes master planning and scheduling. Spring’s curriculum goals include planning for the future to include Summer traveling and Autumn intense curriculum.

I’ve got a little bit of time left to enjoy your lessons Summer, so I am going to end this letter by telling you that I will be thinking about you while I’m in Autumn’s classes. I will be missing the lazy days when I am running from work to lessons and trying to get dinner ready! I will be making plans to ace your lessons once again. Thank you again for the informal approach to teaching that makes the wait all the more special. I look forward to my seat in your class once again, the last week of May.

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