South Fulton July 2015 by City Lifestyle

South Fulton JULY 2015

SouthFultonLifestyle.com

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Lights, Camera,

Action! Behind the Scenes of Atlanta’s Booming Film and TV Industry

KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE THIS SUMMER COOL OFF WITH OUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST CELEBRITY PHOTOGRAPHER GETS IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA

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

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Editor’s Letter

Made in Georgia

JULY 2015

appy summer, South Fulton! There is so much going on here for summer! Kids are out of school and it’s time to have some fun. From camp to vacation Bible school to staycations to fabulous trips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Tiffany Powell Photography

I just read an article that stated that Georgia jumped ahead of Louisiana and is now ranked third for the number of films produced. In fact, only two movies kept us out of first place. Soon folks will not be calling Atlanta the “Hollywood of the South.” Rather they will be singing the little tune that follows so many films and TV shows now: “Made in Georgia.”

Along with lots of summer fun, in this month’s issue we shine a spotlight on those who work, often behind the scenes, to make the film and movie industry happen right in our community. You can hardly travel from South Fulton Parkway to downtown without crossing a set or several working movie studios. This is having a positive effect on our local economy and helping some of your neighbors see their names in lights! Shine on, South Fulton! P.S. Are you the most fabulous wife in South Fulton? Are you a CEO, soccer mom, avid volunteer, board member, triathelete or any combination of the above or something even more outstanding? You could be spotlighted as one of our Real Wives of South Fulton. Email your information to emitchell@lifestylepubs.com.

publisher Michelle Willis | michelle.willis@lifestylepubs.com

editor Erikka Mitchell | emitchell@lifestylepubs.com

contributing writers Delia Carter, Tamiko Corbin, Brian Egeston, Raushannah Johnson-Verwayne, Erikka Mitchell

contributing photographers Tiffany Powell Photography, Kahran Bethencourt, Dwyane Boyd, CreativeSoul Photography, Tamiko Gray, Ron Hill, DN Productions,Chris Smith, Ben Brown, Sheryl Georger

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

SouthFultonLifestyle.com ON THE COVER A behind the scenes look

at the Studio of Drexina Nelson. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RON HILL FOR DNPRODUCTIONS.

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 South Fulton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of South Fulton’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in South Fulton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

July 2015

Departments 10

Good Times

Around Town

Star Student

Family Feature

Healthy Lifestyle

Home Matters

Sold Properties

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

14 A Model Student

Parting Thoughts

Local youth aspires to make her dreams come true in the modeling industry.

18 Shooting Stars

Drexina Nelson shares what life is like as a celebrity photographer.

20 Summer Bucket List

Consider our suggestions for making the most of South Fulton this season.

Panache Bistro Your Home Away From Home

Panache Bistro is the newest gem to the Atlanta cafe scene. We offer a warm and casually elegant dining experience you will not want to miss. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff provide an intimate and personable experience. Our menu boasts a delicious and eclectic array of breakfast entrees, gourmet sandwiches, pastas, entree salads, and desserts. There is more...but why spoil the surprise?

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Publisher’s Letter D’LOR SALON AND SPA

I had the pleasure of visiting one of South Fulton’s most relaxing gems - D’lor Salon and Spa. From the moment I walked in the doors, I knew I was in for a treat. The staff was warm, informative and friendly. I absolutely love businesses that value customers’ time. D’lor Salon and Spa is as prompt as you’ll find anywhere. Their treatment rooms are clean and well appointed. They offer lockers to house your belongings while your body slowly drifts into a world of comfort and relaxation. PRO TIP: Be sure to ask for the lavender scented oil--it’s divine. Their therapists are highly trained in massage therapy and other techniques to relieve stress and tension. After my foot soak and detox treatment, I was escorted to the women’s locker room with a chilled refreshment waiting for me. With their affordable options and various packages, they can expect a return visit from me any day now. They also offer nail and salon services. Congrats D’lor! You’re a pick! Find them at DLorAtlanta.com..

Tiffany Powell Photography

Michelle's Picks Each month South Fulton Lifestyle Publisher Michelle Willis will select a local business for which she gives her personal recommendation and her stamp of approval.

RITE AT HOME FURNITURE

To submit your business to see if it will be selected as one of Michelle’s Picks, email michelle.willis@lifestylepubs.com.

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

How many of you have a home that could use a little “sprucing up?” I know I could, so I reached out to my friend Milton at Rite at Home Furniture. He came and gave my home a design assessment. Let’s start with the fact that he was “rite on time” (pun intended) for our appointment. Just love a man that actually uses that thing on his wrist. And, there is no biting of the tongue. I thought my house had it going on, but Milton gave me ideas for the use of paint, when and when not to use color, and how making simple changes can turn rooms of your house into a completely different space, with not much effort. I’m all about that; effort and me don’t always get along. These guys know their stuff, and they are not afraid to let you know when change needs to be made. On top of that, they have a furniture store, so they can figure out what you need, and you can take a hop, skip, and jump down Cascade Road to get it! One stop shop. Rite at Home offers design services, furniture and custom made accessories and furniture. Yikes! I feel bad for my hubby at this point. Congrats, Rite at Home! You’re a Pick! Find them at RiteAtHomeAtlanta.com. Photo Provided

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Good Times

Pink Cultured Pearls Cotillion

The Ivy Community Foundation of the Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority held it’s 10th Annual Pink Cultured Pearls Cotillion at the Georgia World Congress Center in Downtown Atlanta.

Royal Court 2nd attendant Carrington Schuler, Sprayberry High student, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tommy and Tiffanie Schuler, Miss Pink Cultured Pearls 2014 Shelby Rose, Miss Pink Cultured Pearls 2015 Farris Christine Watkins, daughter of Dr. Angela Farris Watkins and Mr. Willie Watkins, student at Woodward Academy and 1st Attendant Jazmine Freeman, of Westlake High School, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jerry and Jolene Freeman.

Annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon

The Pearls of Purpose Foundation, Inc., a foundation established by the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, hosted its 28th Annual Pink Pearl Mother – Daughter Luncheon. PHOTOS BY DARNELL WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

The Mother-Daughter Luncheon Committee.

“Women Who Launched New Dimensions” honorees: Ms. Oneda Maryon Castillo, National Evaluator for the LPGA; Dr. Carol Espy-Wilson, Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from MIT and First Lady of Morehouse College; and Ms. Marsha Le. 10

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

President Dawn B. Griffin with event chair Dr. Jessalyn Askew, event co-chair Mrs. Marva Simpson and Atty. Patrise Perkins-Hooker, the first African-American and third woman to serve as president of the State Bar of Georgia.

Scholarships totally $30,000.00 were awarded to 12 metropolitan Atlanta high school seniors.

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Around Town KATHLEEN BERTRAND RETIRES FROM ACVB

FORT MCPHERSON REDEVELOPED AS A NEW STUDIO FOR TYLER PERRY

After 32 years of dedicated service to Atlanta's hospitality community, Kathleen Bertrand, senior vice president of community and governmental affairs at the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB), is retiring. Bertrand has held several leadership positions at ACVB and her tenure has been marked by decades of successes. She has played a major role in steering ACVB’s involvement in community and government issues. Bertrand was also the driving force behind the development of ACVB’s diversity marketing program, which positioned Atlanta as the top destination for African-American travelers. One successful career would be enough for most. However, Bertrand is also a wellknown jazz recording artist and writer. She has five CD’s to her credit and has performed for dignitaries including mayors and presidents, and at events ranging from worldwide Jazz festivals to the Olympic Games. She plans to release another music album this year. “I’ve had a ride of a lifetime with ACVB and I’m so grateful for the outstanding support I’ve received through the years. There’s no doubt that I love this city, this industry and the people, both across the country and here in Atlanta, that I’ve had the opportunity to meet and to work with along the way on behalf of Atlanta,” says Bertrand. “But now, after 32 years, I am excited about exploring other roads in life, through my continued work with BronzeLens Film Festival, as well as through my music performances, travel, more family time and writing.”

The 486-acre Fort McPherson military post closed in 2011, and the state-formed Redevelopment Authority, also known as MILRA, has been working tirelessly to finalize a deal in which Tyler Perry Studios will purchase 330 acres for a new television and movie production studio. The transaction will enable the Redevelopment Authority to redevelop the balance of the land – an area as expansive as the region’s largest revitalization projects. Perry has met with members of the neighboring communities and is committed to ensuring the new facility catalyzes job and economic growth in the area. Over the first 10 years after completion of the deal, 3,900 – 8,300 permanent, contract production and construction jobs could be created. The studio’s total investment in land and construction is planned to exceed $100 million, creating an increase in property tax revenues for the city, county, and school system. In 2014, an average production that sought Georgia’s movie production tax credit spent $9.5 million. Tyler Perry Studios expects to have 10 to 20 such productions underway at any given time. The Redevelopment Authority is partnering with some of the brightest minds in the planning and development industries to determine the highest and best use for the remaining 144 acres. An Atlanta Regional Commission grant will enable a comprehensive economic development and land use plan for the post and surrounding areas. An Urban Land Institute Technical Assistant Panel will also work with the Redevelopment Authority. These and other partners will help ensure the future development of Fort McPherson responds to the needs and aspirations of the community around it.

SFL IN THE COMMUNITY

Dwayne Boyd Photography

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

South Fulton Lifestyle publisher Michelle Willis attended the welcome reception for Taifa Smith Butler, the new executive director for the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Butler will lead the nonprofit think tank into its second decade as Georgia’s leading authority on state budget and tax

policy. Since joining GBPI as deputy director in 2011, she led a team of analysts and introduced a deeper and more strategic approach to the organization’s policy research efforts. Speakers at the reception held at the Commerce Club included Milton Little of the United Way of Greater Atlanta, Ann Cramer, and chair and vice chair of the GBPI Board of Directors, Eliot Robinson and Kathy Ashe. In all, nearly 75 guests joined the celebration. Michelle Willis was also recently spotted at the South Fulton Road Race and taking the Chick-fil-A Backstage Tour. Congrats to Yoshina Colbert, the winner of our Facebook sweepstakes! She was awarded an American Express gift card at the Camp Creek Marketplace location of Menchie's Frozen Yogurt. Like our South Fulton Lifestyle facebook group for more contests and valuable info. Do you know about a good thing that is happening in South Fulton? Please don't hesitate to share the good news with your neighbors by emailing our editor, Erikka Mitchell at emitchell@lifestylepubs.com. Your neighbors would love to patronize your business! Contact publisher Michelle Willis at michelle.willis@lifestylepubs.com for advertising prices and more opportunities.

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Star Student

ave you ever dreamed of being on the cover of a magazine? Or being on one of the many billboards in New York City in Times Square? Madison “Madi J” is working on fulfilling that dream. In October 2014, Madi J graced the internet and social media by being a part of Pretty Brown Girl “Laila” Doll Holiday Campaign. Madi J reached for the stars and realized that her dreams could actually come true. Born November 8, 2006, in Lithonia, Georgia, Madi J is currently residing in Peachtree City, Georgia. Many well-known supermodels are role models she admires, such as Damaris Lewis, Jourdan Dunn and Chanel Iman, and she is interested in copying the careers of these womem. Luckily, her parents are very supportive and encourage this interest. That encouragement drives her to become a household name one day. Madi J is currently in second grade and is an honor student. She excels in math, science and the arts. Madi J is passionate about art and drawing. She is also an acting student at The Alliance Theater in Atlanta. Although Madi J may be a newcomer to this industry, she isn’t taking any recognition or opportunities for granted. She has participated in many editorial campaigns, is dedicated to the craft and strives to be on the covers of American Vogue and Italian Elle one day. She was recently signed to Zuri Model and Talent Agency LA/NYC, Inc. Madi J will spend her summer in the "Fashion Capital of the World," New York City, with her new agency.

Be sure to follow Madi J’s journey via her Instagram @theoriginalmadij.

ARTICLE ERIKKA MITCHELL | PHOTOGRAPHY KAHRAN BETHENCOURT, CREATIVESOUL PHOTOGRAPHY

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Family Feature

ARTICLE ERIKKA MITCHELL | PHOTOGRAPHY TAMIKO GRAY AND CHRIS SMITH

The Davis Dynasty

Davis Family, photo by Tamiko Gray

he Davis family absolutely loves South Fulton. They currently reside in the heart of one of Southwest Atlanta’s hidden treasures, Audubon Forest, where they’ve grown fond of the mystical trees, exotic flowers, beautiful streams, dragonflies and butterflies. They have spotted various large birds including owls, hawks and falcons, a few of which actually left a wishful feather at the family members’ feet. As a family, the Davises strive to find work life balance and while they are all active in the community, and the parents have very demanding careers, South Fulton often enables them convenient access to various parts of metro Atlanta and Hartsfield Jackson International airport without long commute times. The Davis Dynasty, as they often refer to themselves, has a love for God and for serving others. In their free time, you can find them playing in their yard amongst the trees, hosting parties at their residence, experiencing cultural museums, visiting the Camp Creek Marketplace and downtown shops and attractions where they love to shop or sit and enjoy yogurt or ice cream. Patrick is currently a Vice President at JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle), a global firm that provides commercial real estate services to some of the world’s largest companies and investors in commercial real estate. Patrick specializes in representing firms in complex construction/development projects, serving as a trusted advisor providing strategic and technical leadership to complex projects, which significantly reduces his client’s cost and risk while successfully carrying out the vision of the client.

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

Cree is an actress who is truly enjoying the significant surge in major film productions that are now choosing Atlanta as their production home. Cree’s desire, along with that of other talented Atlanta actors, is for production Cree Davis, photo by Chris Smith companies to cast even more local actors in lead and reoccurring roles and not only in supporting roles. “There are many great, welltrained and deserving actors in Atlanta with raw talent that can carry lead roles. People want fresh new faces in film and TV; the fresh new face of the South is Atlanta, the "New Hollywood," Cree states. To learn more about Cree’s acting career visit CreeDavis. com and follow her on social media on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @CreeDavisStar.

THE DAVIS FAMILY:

Patrick - Vice President, Project Development Services, JLL Cree - actress, model, singer, dancer, acting Coach and life coach at the YMCA Youth and Teen Development Center Kye, 7 - Super wise and skilled mathematician Kaylyn, 6 - Super talented and smart singer, dancer and actress

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July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Drexina Nelson Celebrity Photographer In Her Own Words

ARTICLE ERIKKA MITCHELL | PHOTOGRAPHY RON HILL, DN PRODUCTIONS

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

devotee of fashion since an early age, Drexina Nelson began her career in Atlanta as a makeup artist for some of the city’s most prominent photographers. Upon completing both her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration degrees at Clark Atlanta University, she opted to pursue a career in photography where she could combine her love for beauty and the arts, her keen eye for composition and style, and her knowledge of business. Since beginning her career as a photographer, Drexina has had the privilege of capturing some of the most beautiful and talented people in the world of fashion and entertainment. Her recent clients include Universal Music Group, Sony Music Group, Jezebel magazine, Vogue, Nike NY, Gospel Today magazine, Elite Models, Major Models, recording artists & producers: Ludacris, Kanye West, Akon, Big Kuntry King, Young Dro, Tboz, Dj Toomp, DJ Drama, Idris Elba, Devyne Stephens, Kandi Burress, Mario, J. Moss, Konvict Music, Grand Hustle, Badgley Mischka, Essence.com, and Bravo among others. She works not only to produce great images, but also to inspire future generations through photography. The inspiration for her work ranges from fashion and beauty to the appeal of human interaction. Whether it is the way a person moves, dresses or laughs, Drexina’s aspiration for each shoot is to capture the essence and individuality of the client with her lens. It is her ability to successfully achieve such a goal that has earned her a reputation as a premiere fashion, beauty and commercial photographer. I had the chance to ask Drexina about working here in Atlanta. “As a photographer in the beauty and entertainment industry, I have worked with some of the most remarkable people," Nelson says. "Working with celebrities in this industry can be both challenging and rewarding. When you connect with a celebrity and they are willing to flow with your creative vision, it makes the shoot more beneficial to both me and the celeb. Every so often, I will encounter a difficult high profile client. To be honest, if someone is difficult to work with, it can kill the creative energy and neither party will get the best out of the shoot. I love shooting with celebrities. However, my focus is bringing out the beauty of all of my clients and making them all feel like superstars. "Of course with any business you may have bad with the great, but all in all my journey as a photographer has been amazing. The main challenge of working in Atlanta has been that the point of industry within the industry is really low which makes it a place where established creatives end up competing for opportunities with people fresh out of school or with less experience because overall the industry here is relatively new. "One major tip that I would give to an aspiring creative is to stay true to your vision. Don't allow anyone including your clients to cloud your vision. They've hired you as the professional for a reason. Lastly, I would advise all creatives to get a mentor or take business courses. It will help to conduct business more professionally.” July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

n o t l u outh F

Your S

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

t s i L t e k c u B y t i v i t c A

ARTICLE TAMIKO CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY POWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

chool is finally out and summer is finally here. For most of us, summer is way too short not to make the most of it. But life is busy and these days many of us find ourselves wishing we’d made more time for our favorite fun-in-the-sun family activities: a picnic in the park to celebrate the Fourth, an outing to the local kid-friendly adventure center, catching lightning bugs in the backyard, or a night out at the drive-in movies, all of the stuff that creates lasting memories. There’s no greater place to start for these great times and memories than at the pool. There are several great pools here in South Fulton: Conley Recreation Center, Godby Road Recreation Center, and Wood Valley Swim in Hapeville, just to name a few. Maybe something different is listed on your summer bucket list. Head out to Serenbe. It's one of South Fulton's hidden secrets. It's where art meets architecture meets the Serenbe farm meets culture. July 10-August 2 The Serenbe Playhouse presents The Secret Garden. Get your tickets now. No summer is complete without some kind of adventure at an amusement park. Why not Six Flags? Enjoy the new rides: the Joker and the Batman Backwards. Get the season pass for greater value if you and the kids want to go more than once. There’s even a waterpark included in your park admission. Here in South Fulton and in the city of Atlanta, there is truly something that everyone can enjoy this summer. Get out there, stay cool and have some serious fun! Tamiko Corbin is a wife, mom, and blogger based in South Fulton. She and her kids will be getting into lots of trouble, oops, I meant, fun educational activities this summer. To keep up with them and to find more of Tamiko's local expertise on free and inexpensive happenings, follow @ MikoKnows on Twitter and her blog.

SUMMERTIME “DON’T MISS” BUCKET LIST

Fourth of July Fireworks in East Point. Or drive a little further to Centennial Park or Lenox Mall. Peachtree Road Race 10K, July 4, follows a scenic, hilly course from Buckhead to Piedmont Park. Reptile Day, July 11. Come face-to-face with live pythons, king snakes, geckos, tortoises, monitors, and iguanas, and see presentations about them on Reptile Day at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History The Atlanta Open, July 25 - Aug. 2. Televised annual men’s tennis tournament held at Atlantic Station. Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, Saturday July 25. AtlantaIceCreamFestival.com The Decatur Beach Party, July 25 Dance and Drum Festival, July 24 - 26. Take a class or simply attend the Atlanta African Dance and Drum Festival at Morehouse College. Atlanta International Fashion Week, July 28 - Aug. 2. Showcases Atlanta’s elite designers and models in the fashion industry and features runway shows, live entertainment, learning sessions, and networking events at 200 Peachtree. Center for Civil and Human Rights Bank of America Free Admission Weekend - 1st Full Weekend of every month Atlanta History Center Bank of America Free Admission Weekend - 1st Full Weekend of every month. Special programming for Juneteenth. July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Healthy Lifestyle

Summertime Safety for Kids BEYOND BUG SPRAY, BOTTLED WATER AND BACKPACKS

ARTICLE DR. RAUSHANNAH JOHNSON-VERWAYNE, LICENSED CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

inally, it is summertime: a time of relaxation, fun, family time, and long and lazy days. Summer is a time when children are a little more independent, they are off with friends, away at camp, on vacations and field trips, and other things. As parents, we do a pretty good job of preparing our children for these adventures. We pack their backpacks with bug spray, bottled water, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and with whatever else fits. But what we may miss is the opportunity to arm them with safety from those who may try to harm them. No one likes to think about “bad things” but we know that they happen and avoiding the topic does not make “bad things” go away. So, take a deep breath and get ready to arm yourself (and your children) with summertime safety. FACT: 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused by their 18th birthday. Research shows that 90 percent of abuse happens by someone the family knows and trusts. (source d2l.org) FACT: Family and acquaintance child sexual abuse perpetrators have reported that they look for specific characteristics in the children they choose to abuse. (source d2l.org) So what will you do with this powerful information? We have researched and talked to perpetrators and they consistently say that in general they look for a certain "type" of victim. Perpetrators report that they look for passive, quiet, troubled, lonely children from single parent or broken homes (Budin & Johnson 1989). They also look to have a personal and trusting relationship with the potential victim and their family. Scary right? This

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

doesn't mean that you have to isolate your child and live in a bubble. Empower them! Give them the facts. Let them know they can tell you any and everything. Teach them about their body and about stranger danger. Ask a lot of questions. Be involved and even intrusive. Reduce the risk of victimization. Send a strong message to the perpetrator: "Not my child!" Remember though, it is up to YOU to instill confidence in your children and if we ignore the topic, our children will be at increased risk. Here are a few steps to take to help reduce potentially unsafe situations (source d2l.org). KNOW WHERE YOUR KIDS ARE

For the next few months, it seems like kids are here, there and everywhere. Make sure you know where yours plan to be so you can pre-verify who will be there and what protective measures will be in place. For instance, no matter where your children are playing, interactions with adults and other youth should be both observable and interruptible. PLAN AHEAD

If you're going to a busy place with many kids, like a park or a family gathering, consider hiring or designating a verified person to help monitor kids. To avoid last-minute substitutions, make arrangements ahead of time for a babysitter or nanny, and prepare a call list of backup sitters in case an issue does come up.

CHOOSE ACTIVITIES WISELY

Whether it's a summer camp, sports clinic, or church retreat, parents should make sure there are policies in place that protect children from sexual abuse. Protective policies should include background checks, staff training on spotting and reporting abuse, and a written code of conduct on acceptable and unacceptable behaviors for which all staff members are held accountable. We can no longer rely on other adults who we've trusted in the past to help protect our children. As parents and guardians, it is impossible to be with our children at all times. Therefore it is imperative that we teach them how to protect themselves. First, lead by example. Make your home a "no secret zone." Tell your family members that you do not allow your children to keep secrets. Instead, use temporary terms like "surprise" particularly because a surprise is short-lived and associated with an eventual "big reveal." Constantly remind your children that they can always tell you anything, and mean what you say. You want your child to be clear that your primary job is to love and protect and that everything else is secondary. Once you've set a tone of trust and openness in your household, arm your child with a few tips: 1) Don't keep secrets, especially when the secret is from another adult. 2) Do activities in groups and never alone with mentors, coaches, church group leaders, etc. 3) If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut feeling and tell someone. 4) Be wary of those who are overly physical with you (tickling, wrestling, hugging). 5) Don't trust anyone who bends all of the rules "just for you" and allows you to do things you normally wouldn't be able to do (watch rated R movies, sip beer, eat too much candy). This list is just a start. Make this an ongoing conversation with not just your child but any children you feel responsible for (nieces, nephews, godchildren, playmates, neighbors, etc). Happy Summer! I’ll see you out and about in South Fulton!

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World Class Live Music in a relaxing atmosphere Imagine a lovely outing that includes delectable food, refreshing drinks, and some of the finest live music this side of the Mississippi from a 16-piece band. St. James Live has arrived!

Weekly Events: Fridays After-Work Mixer (6:00pm - 8:00pm) South City Jazz & Blues (8:00 - Until) Saturdays Pop, Rock & Soul (8:00pm - Until) Sundays Champagne Jazz Brunch (11:30am to 3:30pm)

St. James Live

3220 Butner Road | Suite 240 Atlanta, GA 30331 (404) 254-3561 www.stjamesliveatl.com

Home Matters

Home Matters FLEXIBILITY AND STYLISH FUNCTIONALITY HELP THE VERWAYNES FEEL RIGHT AT HOME ARTICLE DELIA CARTER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN BROWN

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

hen the Verwaynes chose their spacious Southwest Atlanta home, they paid as much attention to the layout as the location. Choosing a house with good bones and a flexible floor plan meant that when they were ready to redesign they would have no problem changing things up. Fast forward a few years when, after meeting Milton Miller and Lamont Bynum of Miller Bynum Design, the Verwaynes were ready to take the plunge. They gave their wish list to the interior designers and entrusted them with the project they had been contemplating for a while. In response to the need for functional living spaces, Miller Bynum Design allowed rooms to transition into one another yet still stand on their own. Soothing color palettes and custom touches tie the whole house together. The master suite has been transformed into a relaxing retreat for the couple. The adjoined sitting room is perhaps the best example of how every square foot has been put to good use. Being able to ease into their busy days by going from their hotel quality bed to their custom houndstooth chairs -- and to reverse those steps at night – is one of the project’s biggest payoffs for the happy homeowners.

July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

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FULTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

8470 Highway 74, Fairburn, Georgia

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Love E Image & Design email:lovee@loveefashion.com

Business Opportunites (Bids, Quotes, and RFPs) for Fulton County Government can be viewed and downloaded

www.loveefashion.com

at no charge by logging onto the County’s official website,

www.fultoncountyga.gov and clicking on Bid Opportunities.

To register as a Fulton County vendor in the Vendor

We offer image consults, closet audits and personal shopping services

Self Service (VSS), log on at

www.fultonvendorselfservice.co.fulton.ga.us Vendor Training Workshops are held monthly. To review a complete schedule and to register for workshops visit our website. There is no cost for training. To become certified as a Minority/Female Business Enterprise (MFBE) with the Office of Contract Compliance, vendors can complete the online certification application at

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

For additional information, please contact us at 404-612-5800. 28

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

Book a Closet Appointment & Mention this Ad for a free consult Plus a Discount on First Service

W O R LD YO U LO VE

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD South Fulton Properties NEIGHBORHOOD

BA/HALF BA

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SP

DOM*

Chattahoochee Hills

3/0

$990,000

$950,000

96%

Atlanta

4/1

$525,000

$510,000

97%

Atlanta

7/2

$550,000

$457,500

83%

Chattahoochee Hills

3/1

$435,900

$400,000

91%

Atlanta

5/1

$437,500

$429,900

98%

144

Atlanta

5/0

$417,000

$420,000

100%

Atlanta

3/1

$429,516

$391,400

91%

126

Fairburn

5/1

$420,000

$394,000

94%

College Park

3/0

$372,559

$402,456

108%

148

Atlanta

4/1

$345,000

100%

Atlanta

5/0

$315,000

$332,500

105%

Atlanta

5/1

$377,765

$319,900

84%

Atlanta

5/0

$335,000

$309,500

92%

Atlanta

3/1

$345,000

$323,500

93%

215

Atlanta

3/0

$329,000

$250,000

76%

119

Atlanta

4/0

$307,643

$295,000

96%

109

Atlanta

4/1

$305,000

100%

291

Fairburn

3/0

$296,126

$290,162

98%

Atlanta

3/1

$280,000

$279,000

99%

Information compiled from First Multiple Listing Service and Georgia Multiple Listing Service from dates of 3/1/2015 through 4/30/2015.Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM = Days on Market

July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

July JULY 4

A Personal Development Camp and Good OI’ Summer Fun

SALUTE TO THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE EAST POINT

Independence celebration includes a carnival, food court, live music, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. near City Hall in East Point. Bring blankets and chairs but no food. Free.

JULY 7, 14, 21, 28 TAI CHI FAIRBURN LIBRARY

60 Valley View Drive, Fairburn 30213 Instructor Hugh Thompson will provide instruction in basic exercise for fitness and self-awareness utilizing the Tai Chi principles. All ages. For information call 770.306.3138.

JULY 7 - AUGUST 2 CHASIN’ DEM BLUES SOUTHWEST ARTS CENTER

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Written and Directed by Kevin Ramsey, this foot-stomping, multi-media musical celebration, which thrills audiences with a storytellers’ account of how a small Midwest town changed the landscapes of American music is brought to life in the untold Story of Paramount Records. For tickets and more information, visit TrueColorsTheatre.org or call 404.613.3220. 915 New Hope Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331

JULY 8, 15, 22, 29 REAR THEM WELL: PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR RAISING A GENIUS WOLF CREEK LIBRARY SYSTEM

3100 Enon Road, Atlanta 30331 Join Yennega Adanya for a five-week educational success boot camp for parents. Your child’s success is based on strategies which includes parental involvement, diet, literacy and character development to name a few. This boot camp will equip your family with the essentials to bringing the genius out of your child. For information call 404.613.4255.

JULY 17 DOWNTOWN LIVE CONCERT SERIES KICKOFF HAPEVILLE

MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR SUMMER LEARNING 30

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2015

The Downtown Live Concert Series kick-off will feature the high energy rock, pop, dance, and country cover band "7 Sharp 9" who won the coveted Best of 2015 Band award by TheKnot.com! Free admission and parking. See Hapeville.org for more information.

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July 2015 | South Fulton Lifestyle

business directory

AUTOMOTIVE

Porsche Cars North America (770) 290-3518 porsche.com

CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING Camp Warrior King (678) 408-2053 campwarriorking.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION My Elegant Occasion (404) 838-7150 myelegantoccasion.com

INSURANCE

Swift Health Group (404) 996-1870 swifthealthgroup.com

St. James Live (404) 254-3561 stjamesliveatl.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Women’s Health Institute (478) 287-4755 drumerah.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Peterson School of Tennis (678) 245-2600 petersonschooloftennis.net

Love E (404) 908-7997 loveefashion.com

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

EDUCATION

Atlanta Medical Center (404) 265-6855 atlantamedcenter.com Pain 2 Wellness Center (404) 699-0966 pain2wellness.com

Arlington Christian School (770) 964-9871 arlingtonchristian.org

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

Atlanta Trilingual Academy (404) 647-4995 atlantatrilingual.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

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

Mia Furniture (470) 440-5848 miafurniturestore.com The Dump thedump.com

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

HOME SERVICES Legend Roofing (404) 308-4694 legendroofing.com

Farmers Insurance (770) 679-8306 The Mincey Law Practice (678) 575-3501 minceylawpractice.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Alliance Spine and Pain Centers (770) 929-9033 spinepains.com Atlanta Consulting and Psychological Services (404) 968-9778 atlpsychservices.com

OTHER

Greystone Power greystonepower.com HR Synergies (888) 759-7187 trusthrs.com Weaver Lawn Care (404) 399-1836 weaverlawncare.org

PROPERTY

Dr. R. Johnson-Verwayne, & REAL ESTATE Standard of Care Reponzell Morris - REMAX Psychological Sevices (678) 758-9193 (678) 973-2491 reponzellsellsatlanta.com standardofcarepsychological.com Hands On Chiropractic and Wellness Clinic (404) 761-8001 wetreatinjuries.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Panache Bistro (404) 996-6479 panachebistroatl.com

Premier Pediatric Associates (404) 220-7660 ppa4kids.com

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

Solutions Health and Wellness Center (770) 306-2520 kaiserfamilychiro.com

SALONS & SPAS Salon Atara (404) 254-1588 salonatara.com

our newest program: A Center of Support for Families to Re-Establish and Maintain Healthy Bonds Children don’t come with manuals. Let us be your guide. 3915 cascade road - suite 240, atlanta, georgia 30331 678.973.2491 | www.standardofcarepsychological.com

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Parting Thoughts

California Has Better Donuts, But My Dog Lives in Atlanta CONUNDRUMS OF A BI-COASTAL CAREER WORDS BRIAN EGESTON

noop Dogg lied to me. I found no drama in the LBC. While working as head writer for Bounce TV’s new sitcom "Mann & Wife," the only thing I found in Long Beach was sunshine and donuts. Lots of donuts. It was my first foray into TV writing on the West Coast. In reality, I should’ve left the confines of my comfy Southern roots years ago, but media mogul Tyler Perry had other plans. Shortly after Perry opened his Southwest Atlanta studio—well it’s more like Walt Disney Studios in the hood—I was plucked from my woeful rabbit hole of writing novels and thrust into the world of sitcom writing. Seemed like a good move. I’m the funniest guy at my family reunions, I love TV and more TV shows were being produced in Atlanta. Eventually, as all shows do, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne was cancelled. The TV writing work in Atlanta became sparse and there were opportunities and gold to be mined out West. I was born and raised in the South, so working in L.A. was a bit of an adjustment, like the first time I asked for sweet tea and the first time I tried to take a walk in the woods. There is more sweet tea in L.A. than there are trees—which is to say almost none. In Georgia, droughts are unfortunate events that we know will eventually pass. In L.A., they put rain on the back of

milk cartons. In Georgia, I putter around town in my old pick-up truck. In L.A., the roller skate that I drive can fit in the back of my truck. In L.A., I stood in line next to Al Pacino as he bought tickets to a movie. I sat next to Deon Cole as he wrote jokes before taking the stage at the world famous Comedy Store. I exchanged a quick dialogue with Donald Glover and had lunch with Vivica Fox. And in L.A., I’m an absolute nobody and people could care less if I’m writing a TV show or greeting cards. But when I cross the Mason-Dixon line, there’s a beat up truck sitting in my drive-way, a dog that will hunch my leg and lick my face. There’s a seven-year-old snaggle tooth boy who jumps in my arms and won’t let me go. There’s a beautiful wife who’s been at my side way before I started this psychotic journey of writing for a living. When I have those things and those people next to me, it makes the trek out West worth every mile. Brian Egeston has more than 18 years writing experience and has worked on more than 150 episodes of TV in less than five years. He’s worked as head writer at Tyler Perry Studios and a development executive at Bobbcat Films in Atlanta and can be reached at be@brianwrites.com.

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