Cycle Nation Sharing Laughs and Thrills
May/June 2014
CLUB MED at Sandpiper Bay
Georgia’s Expanding Entertainment Industry
Willet Honda features
Eagles Landing Baptist Church
OnsiteRIS:
Experience A Different Kind of IT
May/June 2014
CLUB MED at Sandpiper Bay
Georgia’s Expanding Entertainment Industry
Willet Honda features
Eagles Landing Baptist Church
Active Pest Control Celebrating 29 Years of Serving Families
May/June 2014
CLUB MED at Sandpiper Bay
Georgia’s Expanding Entertainment Industry
Willet Honda features
Eagles Landing Baptist Church
Usher’s Love for Atlanta the “City of Hope”
May/June 2014
CLUB MED at Sandpiper Bay
Georgia’s Expanding Entertainment Industry
Willet Honda features
Eagles Landing Baptist Church
CONTENTS
features CLUB MED Looking for a relaxing environment to visit where you can still maintain a healthy and active lifestyle? Club Med at Sandpiper Bay, Florida is the perfect place to realize your desires. Not only is Club Med equipped with scenic surroundings and world renowned classes and lessons that appeal to every level of activity; but it also has something for every member of your family. The Sandpiper Bay location of the highly acclaimed Club Med aims to please all of its guests. The L’Occitane spa also provides just the location for a retreat for the body, mind and spirit. Read more about what we hope will be a retreat for you this summer..
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WILLETT HONDA Once again Willett Honda is blessing a local church with its benevolence. Under the leadership of Pastor Tim Dowdy, the congregation at Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church is sharing Jesus with the community by loving, living, giving and going out and sharing the gospel. This growing congregation is strong in its faith and is challenged by Pastor Dowdy to share that faith with the community. Read how Dowdy, a graduate from North Clayton High School is committed to leading the people of South Metro Atlanta into their purpose.
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GA. ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY Seven years ago the Georgia Entertainment Industry was forever changed with the Georgia’s Entertainment Industry Investment Act that provides a generous tax incentive to production companies that choose to film shows in the state of Georgia. State Representatives Butch Parrish and Ron Stephens were at the helm of this tax incentive that has the world viewing Georgia as a desirable location to film. The passage of the tax incentive has had a tremendous economic impact on the state of Georgia. Read about this Movement to learn about the film industry’s role in generating $3.3 billion of revenue for the state of Georgia. 2
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4627 Roswell Road NE • Atlanta GA 30342
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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have had the pleasure of working with Usher Raymond since 2005 when he re-launched his non-profit Usher’s New Look. I became involved with his foundation through my good friends Anne Sapp, Kelly Willett and Lisa Rayner. New Look boasts a 100% high school graduation rate among its participants. The organization serves exceptional children who are encouraged and equipped to achieve to their greatest potential. Over the years I have helped to cultivate relationships between the Foundation and community leaders and businesses. Nine years later I am blessed to feature my dear friend Usher in SJM to share why amidst his stardom he has chosen to maintain Georgia as his home base. This issue, dedicated to Georgia’s entertainment industry and its impact on our state has been absolutely eye-opening. My greatest discovery in producing this issue is that seven years ago, entertainment had a $200 million impact on Georgia’s economy; and five years later that impact has skyrocketed to $3.3 billion. This issue is loaded with information from some of the most influential leaders in Georgia’s entertainment industry like Georgia’s Director of Film, Music and Digital Entertainment, Lee Thomas and Georgia’s Director of Music Marketing and Development Lisa Love. Additionally, Governor Nathan Deal, State Representatives Butch Parrish and Ron Stephens, Commissioner of Georgia Department of Economic Development Chris Carr and many others have contributed to the information you are about to receive. Through their good works, dedication and vision Georgia has become a true contender in the field of arts, film, entertainment and music industry. To quote John Scully,
“The future belongs to those who see possibilities before they become obvious”. This long awaited issue is finally here. Put on your sunglasses because the Georgia entertainment industry’s future is very bright.
Lisa Kinchen Publisher/Editorial Director lisa@southernjournalmagazine.com
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SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM •
Happiness is seeing others happy #Usher
#StevePenley
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PUBLISHER/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lisa Kinchen | lisa@southernjournalmagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Careshia Moore | cmoore@southernjournalmagazine.com EDITOR Karina Timmel BEAUTY EDITOR Brent Hardgrave CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beverly Van Gorder Valerie Baldowski Jessica Dauler Brent Hardgrave Ginny McCormack Lydia Pierre GRAPHIC DESIGN Michael Birchall Michelle Robb Troika Studio, Inc. | troikastudio.com PHOTOGRAPHY Picture This Studio | darrellemory@bellsouth.net This Is You by Mark & Tracy Englund | info@thisisyou.net ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY Lisa Kinchen | lisa@southernjournalmagazine.com WEB DESIGN Seth Ferreira Troika Studio, Inc. | troikastudio.com We welcome your company and community news. Please include digital photos with your press release and send to lisa@southernjournalmagazine.com. Forward product samples or press kits to the Publisher. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited product samples. Publisher does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. Southern Journal Magazine is published bimonthly by Southern Journal Magazine, Inc. All content is copyrighted by Southern Journal Magazine and reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Southern Journal Magazine reserves liability in the event of an error to a printed correction.
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WINNER MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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very now and then we all have life experiences that will rate high as one of the most memorable. March 6, 2014 will be one of those moments that I catalogue as unforgettable. I was able to supervise a group of four students from Usher’s New Look while they interviewed Usher at his home for the feature in this issue of SJM. Besides the fact of being in the home of one of the world’s most iconic entertainers, I was so very impressed with the poise and professionalism of the students. Malia Murray, Vanecia Thompson, Taj Lopez and Brandon Hamilton had an experience they will never forget and neither will I. In my continued efforts to use my talents, gifts and role with SJM to make a difference, we provided an opportunity for a Henry County student to interview stylist and personal shopper, Lulu Medlock. Tyler Baker, who has an interest in fashion had an experience that allows him to beam with pride as he shares it with others. Lulu was able to share sage advice and talk fashion with a student who is discovering how his talents can guide his future. Certainly, it will go down as one of his most memorable moments. Finally, I can never forget the wonderful time I had at Bohemian Hotel Celebration in Florida. Typically memories of a visit to the Orlando area is attached to Disney or one of the other major attractions. During this visit I made new memories that had nothing to do with Mickey Mouse: girls’ weekend with one of my dearest friends in one of the coziest and relaxing environments. Bohemian Hotel Celebration was the perfect location to eat, shop and dine. I can still hear the Bohemian musicplaying that greeted me in my room each time I entered. As I continue to learn from the leaders we feature and experience the opportunities that arise as a result of my role with SJM I will continue to make precious memories that will last a lifetime. My prayer is that a feature you read in SJM will lead you to create memorable moments in your life as well.
photo by Picture This Studio Careshia Moore Managing Editor
Girls’ Weekend at Bohemian Hotel Celebration, Florida! #Zlife 6
SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM • MAY / JUNE 2014
Tyler Baker interviewing Lulu Medlock #ClosetWhisperer
cmoore@southernjournalmagazine.com Follow Me on Twitter @CareshiaMoore
Using SJM skills to edit CIS Henry Newsletter #CISHenry #GivingBack
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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CONTRIBUTORS
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EDITOR’S PAGE
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CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
CONTENTS
10
ONSITERIS
16
HENRY COUNTY DAY AT THE CAPITOL
20
TOP DENTIST DR. LINDA KING
22
SHEILA CHARLES
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28
PAIN CARE
32
USHER RAYMOND IV
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40
LULU MEDLOCK
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BUSINESS PROFILE: 1ST STOP
42
KATIE ATKINSON
46
TRAVEL: BOHEMIAN CELEBRATION
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ACTIVE PEST CONTROL
52
TRAVEL: CLUB MED SANDPIPER BAY
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CYCLE NATION
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FROM THE DESK OF OUR FIRST LADY
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MARLON ALLEN
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TRAVEL: CALLAWAY GARDENS
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BRENT HARDGRAVE EXPERIENCE
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LIFESTYLE: JESSICA SHOPS
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GEORGIA OFFICE OF THE ARTS
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BUSINESS PROFILE: CLASSIC LANDSCAPES
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GEORGIA’S FILM INDUSTRY TAX CREDIT
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STEVE HUTCHINSON
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102
STEVE PENLEY
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BUSINESS PROFILE: PRO FITNESS
108
BUSINESS PROFILE: MATCHMAKER
110
LIFESTYLE: GINNY COOKS MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones, But Words Will... Really Hurt Me!
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Brother Ralph and Gwen Easterwood Pastor Emeritus---Glen Haven Baptist Church, McDonough by Beverly Van Gorder photo by Picture This Studio
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desire for fellowship with those crafted in His image was the foremost impetus for God’s creation of man. And since that time, relationships have been the cornerstone of every community. Brother Ralph Easterwood believes, “Relationships are built through communication and the rise or fall of any relationship is a direct result of the good or the bad we convey with our tongues. The greatest effect we have on others comes from what we say and how we say it. Tremendous power resides with what comes out of our mouths.” We should all take note of Brother Ralph’s thoughts, for too often we ignore just how impactful our words can be. We carelessly speak our mind in frustration or anger or bitterness. We pass judgment on others when we do not even have first hand information about a given situation. Or we contribute to idle conversations which serve no purpose other than to perpetuate half truths. According to Brother Ralph, “A half truth is a whole lie because you never know which half to believe.” He continues, “In the Bible, Matthew 12:36 records Jesus’ own words, ‘But I say to you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.’ I was raised on the wisdom of an old country saying which pretty much sums up this verse of scripture: ‘You need to put your brain in gear before you put your mouth in motion.’ Whatever we say is permanent. Not only will God require us to take responsibility for all we have ever said, but our words can last in someone’s heart forever.” The book of Proverbs is filled with other admonitions of wisdom and Brother Ralph directs us to three specific ones that hone in on the fallacy of speaking without thinking. Proverbs 13:3---“He that keeps his mouth
keeps his life: but he that opens wide his lips shall have destruction.” Proverbs 18:13---“He that answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” And Proverbs 29:20---“See you a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.” Brother Ralph shares an interesting statistic regarding the spoken word. He says, “The average person speaks about 18,000 words on a normal day, yet the articulate person speaks about 30,000 words per day which is equivalent to a typical unabridged novel.” We have countless opportunities to speak without thinking. And with the advent of email, texting and social media, our words are not just spoken but recorded in an immediately reproducible way that is almost mind boggling. What is said can go around the world in a moment’s notice. “There is no such thing as whispering in a corner and keeping what is said private,” Brother Ralph reminds us. With this in mind, we should always give careful consideration to the words we speak. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers.” Seeing as we have the ability to destroy or enhance with our words, Brother Ralph poses a legitimate question: “Why not begin winning the hearts of others with loving communication as Jesus would have used?” A fourth Proverb, Proverbs 15:1 comes to mind, “A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Just think, if everyone made a conscious effort to speak with kindness, using only words meant to encourage, then the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” would actually be true. Let’s give it a whirl!
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FEATURE
FEATURE
Delivering The Best Value in the Technology Industry By: Careshia Moore Photos by Picture This Studio
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Finally. Our technology works exactly as we expect it to. – Brittany M. / Client & Raving Fan
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ost people’s perception of technology companies range from buildings filled with nerdy types interacting with clients without mumbling a
single word; to images portrayed in popular movies like The Internship that represents the quirky and amusing atmosphere of Google. Henry County is home to a business that fits somewhere in the middle of the two common perceptions. OnsiteRIS, founded by Chief Executive Officer, Mike Gardiner is a highly successful technology company that prides itself on strong customer service and being “different”.
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FEATURE
FEATURE
Let us own you IT problems so you can focus on your business!
Mike Gardiner, feeding his lifelong passion for technology, established OnsiteRIS in 1999. Meeting the needs of small business, he began with a simple “break-fix” offering. Gardiner later earned the business of Chick-fil-A and began implementing the ability to accept credit cards at a few local stores. Soon, as a result of the exceptional service Gardiner provided, fifty more stores in the Atlanta area were added to his service list. It did not take long before he earned a contract with Chick-fil-A to convert eight hundred stores nation-wide. Gardiner received the confirmation he needed that the path he chose was the correct one. Today, OnsiteRIS consists of almost 60 employees who provide technology solutions for clients in various industries such as education, healthcare, nonprofit, financial, small business, manufacturing, hospitality and legal. Gardiner has filled his team with professionals who are well trained and excel in a team environment. “We hire family oriented people who have integrity.” In fact, two of Gardiner’s adult children, Caity and Allen, a nephew and his brother have integral roles at Onsite. Gardiner has created a culture of collaboration and excellence within his company. Although the services provided by Onsite are competitive with any technology company, its secret to success is the customer focused culture they have created within the company.
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No problems. Only solutions. – Mike G. / President/CEO
Onsite is a Managed Service Provider and focuses on holistic service to its customers. This includes hardware and services procurement, project management and vendor management. “We are your IT department,” says Gardiner. Onsite can handle most any technology need for businesses and organizations. The goal with any good MSP is to take the IT burden from its customer. The company boasts an in-house, state-of-the-art Tier III Datacenter. This includes fully redundant components, bandwidth, network and power. This provides customers a private cloud solution that saves money while increasing reliability. In an effort to support clients’ businesses, Onsite offers disaster recovery solutions that consist of monitoring and back-ups to ensure the integrity of data. Also, it facilitates secure cloud hosting of applications such as Outlook 365 for its customers; and document management, communication and security solutions. Onsite manages updates for customer equipment that is tested in internal labs prior to deployment. They even offer training for customer’s employees. Responsible for over 20,000 devices, Onsite’s solutions are customized to meet the needs of each customer. It delivers value and systems to make organizations more efficient and assures clients that their data is secure. “We know our customers depend on their technology. When they are down it really hurts their daily operations,”
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FEATURE
shares Gardiner. Onsite takes great pride in keeping its customer’s technology up and running. “We use cutting-edge tools and are proactive about taking care of our customers. Through predictive failure such as knowing when our client’s hard drives are running low on space, we can take care of them.” Within its four-story headquarters, Onsite has a Deployment Center that maintains hotspare equipment for its customers. Onsite leverages technology that provides the ability to capture an image of its client’s software and data so if it becomes necessary for replacements, the new hardware is up and running in record time. “We recognize that our clients depend on us to operate at or above industry standards,” says Gardiner. Onsite’s services are audited by nationally recognized, independent third parties to ensure they are compliant with current security practices. Maintaining ISO, SOC, PCI and HIPAA families of standards, Onsite has an internal compliance officer whose role is to navigate the ongoing path to achieving operational excellence for Onsite itself and its customers. Customers are provided with executive summaries of potential security issues along with a road map for maintaining compliance. The company has earned many different certifications from some of technology’s top providers such as Microsoft, Citrix and Cisco. These certifications speak to Onsite’s gurus who have become experts on the companies’ platforms. “Our partnerships are created so that customers can lean on us,” explains Gardiner. Clients are able to subscribe to Onsite’s services for a monthly fee. “We provide great value in the monthly service fee structure. There is not a single company that I cannot save money. In fact, the larger the company the more they can save,” explains Gardiner, “We believe that we create a tremendous value through increasing the breadth of knowledge and availably of your IT team”. Onsite prides itself on being on the customer’s side of the equation and acting as an advocate for its customers. This cutting edge company leverages technology to help its customers receive the best value and customer service. One example is the use of a smart phone system that routes customer calls to the most recent representative who interacted with the customer. This ensures customers receive streamlined service from its technicians and managers. With their close knit corporate culture and servant leadership approach, Onsite has garnered much acclaim, earning AJC’s Best Work Place award and Chick-fil-A’s IT vendor of the year. Gardiner bursts with pride when he shares his company’s accomplishments but he knows that this is just the beginning. “I like to keep things moving. Still water stagnates. We are always looking for new opportunities to grow as a company, either through building new product offerings or looking for ways to help our charities. This ensures our folks stay at the top of their game both professionally and personally” shares Gardiner. When Gardiner mentions ‘keep things moving’, he means it figuratively and literally as Onsite has just opened a new office in Irvine, California. To better accommodate its west coast clients, that include some quick service restaurants, Gardiner is sending four of his current staff to Irvine to seed the Onsite culture in the new location. Servicing clients in more than 40 states, Irvine is just the first step for expansion as the company plans to open offices in Dallas and Philadelphia very soon. “Our goal is to be closer to the work. If you need me, I want to be there. In a climate of cloud offerings and tech support located offshore, we feel that none of these things can ever replace a face to face approach,” shares Gardiner. In addition to its professional commitments with customers like Burger King, Emory Medical and many others, Onsite is also dedicated to serving organizations such as Rock Springs Christian School and Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. The company also supports Sahel Academy, a school for Mission Kids in Niger, Africa. Most recently it deployed a team of employees to the location and provided the school with thirty new computers and a server. Sharing technology with this school
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Quality Tested. We hire family-oriented people with intergrity. – Joey A. / Leadership Team
to help educate the children of missionaries that live abroad is one of Onsite’s proudest accomplishments. Resulting from the search for other MK schools that could use a hand, this year they are planning to visit and set up a support channel for Grace International School in Thailand. In addition to its international efforts, Onsite’s local presence is evident in its active membership in the Henry County Chamber of Commerce and its support of great causes like Kate’s Club and Winshape. Gardiner believes wholeheartedly in Luke 12:48: “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be required in return”. His core beliefs have led him to establish charitable giving and community involvement as a foundation for the Onsite culture. Gardiner, a visionary, husband and father to four children works tirelessly on keeping his company at the forefront of its industry. His people skills, experienced team and flair for the cutting edge have continued to expand the company’s business. Onsite still has some of its very first customers and sets out to keep all of its customers for life. “We are where we are today because relationships matter. People don’t buy services from companies. People buy services from people. Thirty years from now I want to still be my current customers’ technology provider,” states Gardiner.
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Photo by Lesley Kerr FEATURE
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SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM • MAY / JUNE 2014
My Family. Inspires me to be a great leader. – Mike G. / President/CEO
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Henry County at the Day Capitol By: Katie Atkinson Photos by Picture This Studio
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n February 10th , hundreds of Henry County citizens gathered at the state capitol to mingle with the area’s representatives and recognize local talent at the capitol’s annual Henry County Day. The event was sponsored and promoted by Representatives Brian Strickland, Dale Rutledge, and Andy Welch as an opportunity for local business leaders, students, and administrators to familiarize themselves with the area’s delegation members. “I very much enjoy Henry County Day because it gives me time to visit with Henry County friends and leaders and work on their concerns,” said Representative Welch. “It also gives us an opportunity for us to share with 18
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members of the General Assembly the products and accomplishments of our businesses.” Henry County Day, gave Henry County citizens and distinguished community leaders the opportunity to visit the General Assembly during session and gain new perspective on the issues being discussed by their elected representatives. According to Representative Andy Welch, the participation of county citizens is an influential factor on the decisions being made at the state-level. “As a result [of county citizens visiting], state leaders are able to directly hear the concerns and petitions of our local leadership as state level decisions are being made,” said Representative Welch. “This visit also
demonstrates Henry County’s significant engagement in local and state issues which helps influence state decisions to the benefit of Henry County citizens, businesses and taxpayers.” According to Representative Strickland, Henry County Day attracted one of the largest crowds to the capitol, surpassing the participation of any other county in the state. Participants included volunteers from Henry County who delivered 40 pound cakes to the Capitol to demonstrate their appreciation and to say thank you to our public servants. To Representative Strickland, this wide spread participation is highly beneficial. “It is so important that, when it comes
time to make decisions at the state level, the interests of Henry County are not overlooked. In particular, it is important for our leaders to remember what Henry County has to offer when it comes to the state budget every year,” said Representative Strickland. “We have been successful recently in getting state funding for the construction of our first technical school campus and for new transportation projects on interstate 75.” Henry County Day wasn’t only centered on the concerns of state funding. It expanded far beyond to include the representation of several Henry County organizations—including local school systems that were recognized in resolutions introduced and sponsored by
Senators Emmanuel Jones and Rick Jeffares. In one resolution, the Ola High School Softball Team was recognized for securing the 2013 AAAAA State Championship. In another, the Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy baseball and softball teams were recognized for an outstanding 2013 season. Members of the Ola Middle School Orchestra were also given the opportunity to showcase their work during a musical performance on the capitol floor. Having student participation was a distinct contribution to what Representative Strickland says is one of the primary reasons behind having Henry County Day. “[Henry County Day] shows our leaders at the state level the great things we have going for the
State of Georgia down in Henry County,” said Representative Strickland. “I love Henry County Day because I love to show off my home to my friends in the House of Representatives.” Moving forward from Henry County Day, the concerns of county citizens continue to be a priority in the minds of elected officials at the state level. “We like for the county citizens to participate and have the opportunity to meet their elected officials,” said President of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, David Gill. “It’s always important that citizens know who we are and that they see us. We want them to get to know us.”
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Providing Individualized Care for Women
Specializing in Gynecology & Urogynecology Surgery
Dr. Stephanie Gordon
Lanie Vu, NP
Procedures We Provide:
• Davinci Robotics Gynecological Surgery • Traditional Abdominal Hysterectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, and Laparoscopic Assisted Hysterectomy • Myomectomy for Fibroid Tumors • In-office ESSURE Tubal Ligation • Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Problems, Endometriosis, Tubal and Adhesive Diseases • Hysteroscopic Surgery • Colposcopies for Abnormal Pap Smears and LEEP Procedures • Repair of Pelvic Prolaspe, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage • In-Office Endometrial Ablation for Excessive Menstrual Bleeding
Marcia Harmon, CNM
Maria Epling, CNP
• Well Women Health Care and Comprehensive Annual Exams • Pap Smears, Breast Exams, and In-Office Ultrasounds • Full range of Contraception Options • Menopausal Management - Traditional and Alternative • Adolescent and Pediatric Gynecology • Infertility Workups • Hormone Replacement Therapy (including pellets, injections and compounding cream) • Bladder Problems and Incontinence • Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cyst • Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment • Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases
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140 Eagles Spring Court, Suite B Stockbridge, GA 30281
678.413.4644
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www.womenscenterga.com Privileges At Rockdale & Piedmont Henry Hospitals
What is a Urogynecologist? By Stephanie Gordon, MD A urogynecologist is a surgeon who has specialized in the care of women with pelvic floor disorders. The pelvic floor is a set of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the lower part of the pelvis that provides support for a woman’s internal organs, including the bowel, bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. Pelvic floor disorders can occur when women have weakened pelvic muscles or tears in the connective tissue due to excessive strain on the pelvis due to childbirth, repeated strenuous activity, menopause, chronic disease, or pelvic surgery. Other factors that can weaken the pelvic floor include repetitive heavy lifting, tobacco use, and genetics. Dr. Stephanie Gordon is one of only 10 Board Certified Urogynecologist in the State of Georgia. She is double Board Certified in the subspecialty of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery as well as General Gynecology. With this background, she is able to take care of the Well Woman as well as to give cutting edge medicine to the patient with complicated gynecology issues. What type of problems can Dr. Gordon manage and treat? Incontinence: loss of bladder or bowel control, leaking or urine or feces. Prolapse: descent of the pelvic organs, a bulge and /or pressure; dropped uterus, bladder, vagina or rectum. Pain: discomfort to the lower back, pelvic, bladder, or urethra- including Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or painful bladder syndrome, pain with sex. Overactive Bladder: frequent need to void, bladder pressure, urgency, leaking of urine on the way to the bathroom. How can Dr. Gordon treat these problems? With conservative (non-surgical) or surgical therapy depending on your wishes, the severity of your condition, or your general health. Conservative options include medications, pelvic exercises, behavioral and diet modifications, vaginal devices (pessaries), Pelvic Floor Therapy (including InTone), and Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation. Safe and effective surgical procedures are also utilized to treat incontinence and prolapse. Dr. Gordon also provides advance gynecology care including: Well Woman Annual Exams, Contraception including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies, ESSURE tubal lig tion in office, Nexplanon, Mirena and Paraguard IUDs, traditional tubal ligation. Treatment for heavy menstrual cycles-including endometrial ablation in office (Novasure, Thermachoice, and HTA. Myomectomy (fibroid removal) and Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) –over 95% of these can be performed vaginally or thru a laparoscope (tiny incisions on abdomen)-can be performed with the Da Vinci Robotic system with only an outpatient admission to the hospital. Menopausal Management -including natural therapy, bio-identical hormones, compounded creams, injections, pellets, and traditional hormone replacement. Pediatric and adolescent gynecology-HPV vaccines, acne, heavy/painful cycles, endometriosis, STD testing, and chronic infections. Infertility work ups and therapies. For your convenience-In office Ultrasound, Bladder testing, surgical procedures with IV anesthesia available with anesthesiologist.
For more information, visit our website at www.womenscenterga.com
TOP DENTIST Linda King DDS
D
r. King is a highly sought after dentist in the south Metro Atlanta area. She began her own practice in Locust Grove, Georgia in 1997 and has continued to create a successful practice that provides her patients with the best in dental care. Dr. King graduated from the Medical College of Virginia’s School of Dentistry in Richmond, Virginia and has since continued to obtain knowledge on how to best provide innovative and preventative care to her patients. Dr. King is dedicated to helping her patients obtain their best smile. She offers
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various services to accomplish this goal, including but not limited to: general dentistry; cosmetic dentistry; reconstructive dentistry; sedation dentistry; and even Botox. Dr. King’s family dental practice provides services that are designed to cater to the entire family. She seeks to treat her patients for a lifetime. In addition to standard dental procedures, Dr. King also offers Botox and advanced treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Dr. King and her staff maintain a nonjudgmental environment that aims to educate all patients on how to best address their oral
health. She offers consultations that are created to assess, educate and collaboratively develop a treatment plan that is customized for each individual client. Dr. King’s services are transformative and demonstrate her commitment to excellence in providing results. Dr. King is a firm believer that one’s dental appearance can directly affect productivity in life. Her approach to dentistry aims to improve her patient’s lives by improving their oral health. Dr. King is married to Tim Kohl and together they have one daughter, Cadance.
The Transparent Testimony of
Sheila Raye Charles by Lydia Pierre
back to my memory laying on the concrete floor in federal prison at three o’clock in the morning. I had nothing left. When I cried out to the name of Jesus, He answered me. SJM: What made you want to put your story on paper with “Behind the Shades”? You better believe that was not my idea. God showed me that if I was willing to share my story with the world and willing to be obedient and transparent. God said come raw or don’t come at all. I put myself so transparently out there and I had no clue that it was going to heal me too in the process. Being able to talk about it and reliving those things to a point of healing. And really seeing myself and seeing the greatness of what God had done when I wrote the book, it was amazing. God put it on my heart and He knew what He was doing.
T
ransparent, Honest, Bold, and Godly. These are just some of the words that describe the woman that is, Ms. Sheila Raye Charles. When you look up the definition of transparent, the dictionary states that it is an adjective that means: “Capable of transmitting light so that objects or images can be seen as if there were no intervening material”*. When you use that same word to describe a person, Sheila Raye Charles fits the mold when it comes to sharing her story. Growing up coined “The Daughter of Ray Charles”, was a very confusing reality for Ms. Charles. Trying to embrace a title which not only referenced an individual she never met, but also caused her to almost live without a name or identity of her own was quite daunting. One extreme of her story is full of drugs, prison, sexual abuse and recovery. While the other extreme includes, ministry, books, personal growth and above all God. SJM: What was it like growing up as the daughter of Ray Charles? Being the daughter of Ray Charles of course was incredible. It had many pros and it had a lot of cons. You have the Ray Charles as a father and you watch the world fall in love with this man and icon for the incredible talent that he had and what he brought to the industry and to the world through his music. In that aspect, it was amazing. I would be on the red carpet with all the paparazzi and the lights flashing, and the hustle and bustle that happens from being around a megastar like 24
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that. That was very interesting and enticing but the father that I needed just wasn’t there so it caused me to go down a path of seeking love and acceptance from men. [A path] that I may not have had to experience had I had a more intimate relationship with him. SJM: You have been through a lot in life, from sexual abuse to drug addiction, to prison, to losing your children, what do you think was the catalyst for all of this? One of the things that caused me to seek drugs was the sexual abuse. Also the lack of parental relationship that I needed, not just with my father but with my mother as well. My mother, in her own right, was an icon. My mother’s name was Sandra Betts and in Ohio, that “Betts” name was like royalty. There were many aspects [of my life] that led me to the road that I went through. However, I thank God that I have a God that is so merciful and His grace is truly sufficient in that I’m able to utilize the things that I’ve been through for other people. SJM: What kept you going and helped you to overcome? So many people want an elaborate answer, but there isn’t anything more elaborate than the love, the grace, the mercy and the goodness of God. I got saved when I was in a horrible car accident that nearly took my life and I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior ad then once He healed me, I forgot all about Him. As a matter of fact, I turned away from Him and to a life of complete darkness. I’m so glad that God brought himself
SJM: Tell us about your gospel album, how is that going? I have an album out by the same name as my book “Behind the Shades”, but I am in the process of a new album. It’s going to be called “When Love Calls” and there will be a book that will be coming out with the same title as well. I have some great people on board with that. The title song, “When Love Calls”, I’m doing with Ron Anthony, which is John Legend’s amazing younger brother. The first album speaks about the pain and the hurt that I’ve been through and how God delivered me. When Love Calls talks about what happens once you receive the call on your life. When God calls you, everybody thinks that your life is perfect. It’s not perfect, [but] you have the power to make it through and that’s what this album is about. SJM: Any upcoming tours or appearances? I go back on tour this month [March] in Florida in the Orlando area. From there we fly to Minnesota, and I tour Minnesota for about two weeks and from Minnesota to Boston Massachusetts, and then I fly from Boston to Germany and I’ll be in Europe for about 6 weeks touring over there doing Ray Charles tributes. Of course, wherever I am, I take it as an opportunity to minister the word of the Lord in places where the Gospel doesn’t get to be spread. SJM: Where can fans find you and your book? Family out there can connect with me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ SheilaRayeCharlesFans, and @SRCforJesus on Instagram and @SheilaRayeCharles on Twitter.
Community Christian School 2001 Jodeco Road • Stockbridge, GA 30281 (678) 432-0191 • www.communitychristianschool.net
May 27 - July 25 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM Ages 3 and Up Visit our website for complete registration information.
• On-campus Dual Enrollment Program for College Credit • Gifted Elementary Program • Advanced Placement & Honors Classes • SAIS-SACS Accredited • Full Athletics Program & Fine Arts Program • Limited Enrollment for 6 Weeks Old through 12th Grade
Open House Events: Tuesday - May 13th
8:30-10:00am & 6:30-8:00pm Community Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges and activies generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletics and other school administered programs.
NOW OPEN
IN HENRY COUNTY MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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There’s Only One Choice For Community Banking. We understand the needs of the local community. Because we live and work here, too. For over 55 years, We understand the needs of the local community. Because we live and work here, too. For over 55 years, Heritage Bank has helped the area grow by offering services that help business owners maximize earnings and Heritage Bank has helped the area grow by offering services that help business owners maximize earnings and personal account holders meet financial goals. These days, there aren’t many options left for local banking. personal account holders meet financial goals. These days, there aren’t many options left for local banking. When you bank with us, your money stays in the community through loans that support your neighbors and When you bank with us, your money stays in the community through loans that support your neighbors and their businesses. For great rates, great service, and great solutions, visit your local Heritage Bank today. their businesses. For great rates, great service, and great solutions, visit your local Heritage Bank today.
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BUSINESS PROFILE
Shirley Wade A STORY OF COURAGE, PERSEVERANCE AND SUCCESS
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by Valerie Baldowski | photo by Picture This Studio
With the stimulator, I’m able to stand longer without hurting, cook, do my hair, [and] go out shopping.
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p until late last year, whenever Shirley Wade tried to move, pain brought her to a standstill. Shirley has interstitial cystitis, which resulted in severe back and pelvic pain. The Hampton resident suffered for two years with the condition before learning about Pain Care Center of Georgia in Stockbridge, and how it could help her live a normal life again. No one knows what may have caused the condition, but now, thanks to a spinal cord stimulator implant she had done in mid-December, movement comes much more freely to her. Before the procedure, the prescriptions Shirley’s doctor gave her for pain helped some, but not enough. Pain pills can make a person feel better temporarily, she says, but the body can build up a resistance to the medication until more and more is needed. “I dealt with it as long as I could. It’s been rough,” says Shirley. “After I started going to Pain Care, I’ve had really good success.” Spinal cord stimulator treatment starts with a trial period of about a week. This begins by having trial leads placed during a short outpatient procedure. Following the procedure, the patient has the chance to test-drive the stimulator to see how well it works for their pain. During Shirley’s trial period, she began experiencing significant improvements. “It did give me a lot of relief, where I was able to wash clothes again,” she explains. “With the stimulator, I’m able to stand longer without hurting, cook, do my hair, [and] go out shopping. It has been a godsend. I really am thankful that I had it done.” Shirley’s goal is to gradually decrease the amount of pain medication she needs. Although she still is taking reduced doses, the care she is receiving at Pain Care is making a positive difference. “I’m thankful that there’s something else besides just pain medicine,” Shirley declares. “I don’t like taking pain medicine, and I don’t really think anybody does, but you have to do what you have to do.” Pain Care differs from other clinics in that its goal is to not only help patients manage their pain, but to build relationships with them as well. “From the first visit on, we place great emphasis on understanding our patients and helping them get back to doing the things they enjoy,” says Melissa Campbell, the clinic’s nurse practitioner. The professionals at the clinic develop an individualized approach with each person they treat, taking into account factors like the level at which they can function with pain, allergies they may have, and their initial diagnosis. Sometimes the services of a certified psychologist are used in conjunction with an overall treatment plan. “He’s able to help focus [patients] with coping skills, maybe using meditation, maybe using prayer, to bring that all together along with what we’re doing, to give that whole package to the patient,” Melissa says. Patients who undergo a spinal cord stimulator implant can get back to doing basic tasks like showering, dressing, grocery shopping, walking to the mailbox, and standing up in church easier. In essence, the surgical procedure Shirley underwent helped her reclaim her life. “What this essentially does is that it replaces painful sensations with a more pleasant sensation. It’s kind of like a tingling feeling,” Melissa explains. “She’s able to increase her quality of life.” Between new patients, procedures and follow ups, the busy clinic treats a total of 2,000 patients a month. Of those, last year between 70 and 80 spinal cord stimulators were implanted. Despite those numbers, the staff makes an effort to establish personal relationships with each patient. “It’s not about their diagnosis. It’s about talking to them about their grandkids, and where they’re going on vacation,” she continues. “Ms. Wade always loves to wear nice outfits, and we always talk about where she got them. I think that’s so important in getting to know your patients.” For more information: Visit www.georgiapaincare.com MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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Road Race ... in The Grove Saturday, May 24th at 8:00am
The race will begin at the Gardner Farm Peach Stand Presented by: Gardner Farms and Locust Grove Main Street, Inc.
Registration includes a t-shirt. Awards will be presented to: First overall male and female, as well as masters (40+) Awards for the top three finishers (male and female) in each age group. Registration forms are available at Locust Grove City Hall or at: www.locustgrove-ga.gov or www.locustgrovemainstreet.com
Be sure to check out the recently opened Train View Platform & visit the Historic Downtown
Contact: Mallory Rich (Main Street Manager) • Phone: 770-692-2320 • E-mail: mrich@locustgrove-ga.gov Visit: www.locustgrove-ga.gov/events or The Locust Grove Main Street Facebook page for more info
FEATURE
{is}
recording artist, Usher Raymond IV chats about his love of art and atlanta... photos by picture this studio story by vanecia thompson
FEATURE
GEORGIA ON HIS MIND s we enter his north Atlanta home to escape the green fury of spring, we are greeted by a large black canvas that spans two or three arm lengths and almost touches the ceiling. The piece is a combination of calligraphy, graffiti and hieroglyphics that is quintessential of the Los Angeles based artist, Retna. Step to the right and there are splashes of color on two more paintings—far less consuming than the Retna piece, yet unique in their own way. As we wander through his home, there are works of art sprinkled in every corner. Works made with different mediums, made by young and old artists and made across the globe, including in the state of Georgia. On a bookcase that engulfs the wall in one room, lie books about art, fashion and travel, strategically accented by the numerous awards and accolades he has acquired through the years. “My house is a collective of my experiences and the places I’ve been,” said Usher Raymond IV. Raymond, commonly referred to as Usher, is a 35-year-old Chattanooga, Tenn. native that now calls Georgia home. The world-renowned recording artist invited Southern Journal Magazine and youth from his non-profit foundation to view his growing art collection, discuss why he loves living in the south and to talk about the future of the Usher New Look Foundation. THE ARTS Usher’s first interactions with visual art started with finger-painting however music and performing arts quickly took over. “When I was 18 or 19 I became conscious of [visual] art,” said Raymond. His interest in graffiti and street art sparked a conversation with Marquis Lewis, an up and coming artist, about inspiration and the creative process. The artist is better known as Retna. “I didn’t know I was investing in something that would become valued in time but that is what art is— it is your personal expression.” Having exposure to art in schools is an important factor for developing creative integrity. It extends past the stroke of a brush or molding of clay. “Art in itself forces personal interpretation in all other areas of study.” ATLANTA LIVING Since moving to Georgia from Tennessee, Usher has deemed Atlanta the “City of Hope”. It is his place of arrival and growth where he plans to keep investing because it was an outlet for him. “I love being here,” he says. “Its’ an eclectic place.” From the Virginia Highlands to West End, Buckhead to Decatur or College Park to Midtown, Atlanta’s neighborhoods give the city a global feel. “No matter where you go there is a different cont’d next page
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pictured from left to right: Taj Lopez, Maria Murray, Lisa Kinchen, Usher, Brandon Hamilton, Vanecia Thompson, Careshia Moore
my house is a collective of my experiences and the places I’ve been,” said usher raymond iv.
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FEATURE
art in itself, forces personal interpretation in all other areas of study.
photos on the wall: A South African photographer contrasts tribal survival and extinction.
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culture in different spaces that comes out in the music and in the art.” Although he has been to many countries across the world, Usher maintains that Atlanta is truly unique and like no other city. The culture and lifestyle keep people, festivals, artists and films coming back for more. “The city allows you to be whatever you want at your own pace,” says Raymond. “You can become major whether you are Tyler Perry, Outkast, Janelle Monae or Usher.” USHER’S NEW LOOK FOUNDATION Usher’s New Look Foundation, UNL, was founded as a private charity in 1999 before transitioning to a public 501(c)3 non-profit in 2005. The New Look foundation boasts a 100% high school graduation rate with 98% of its youth going on to higher education or job placement, according to the foundation’s website. How do they do it? The foundation meets its youth where they are and shows them how to use their passion to succeed through peer-to-peer training. Using its four leadership pillars—talent, education, career, and service—developed in conjunction with Emory University Goizueta Business School, UNL youth learn the skills necessary to become global leaders. “The pillars are great in terms of helping young people discover direction and passion,” said Raymond. “As we are able to get that in schools, we will have a ton of success stories that lead to the growth of what Atlanta is for the next thirty or forty years.” UNL has programs in U.S. cities, Detroit, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, New York and Atlanta. Its reach also extends globally to cities and countries including Hong Kong, Kenya, London, South Africa and Vancouver through Powered By Service trainings. Although UNL has grown and changed over the last 10 years, Usher maintains that he will not change the foundation’s headquarters. “We will grow other places but Atlanta represents the roots of the Foundation,” said Raymond. Between his musical and professional career and being a father, Usher does not have as much time for finger-painting as he would like, but he continues to use his foundation as his canvas. Each stroke of his brush or dabble of paint has helped mold hundreds of youth into future leaders.
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FEATURE
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no matter where you go there is a different culture in different spaces that comes out in the music and in the art.
SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM • MAY / JUNE 2014
a look into the art collection of
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PROFILE
by Tyler Baker & Careshia Moore
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any people wish their hobby and passion could translate into a career; but relatively few are able to do it. Lulu Medlock is among the few as she has successfully turned her passion for fashion into a career as a stylist, wardrobe organizer and personal shopper. When it came to her career, there was no doubt that she would follow her dream to work in the fashion industry. “I have always loved fashion. I always knew I would be in fashion. It is a perfect fit for me,” shares Medlock. Medlock, also known as “The Closet Whisperer” followed her passion and majored in Fashion Merchandising at Ole Miss. In fact she shares that her decision to attend Ole Miss was in part related to a feature in Seventeen Magazine that highlighted Ole Miss as one of the most fashionable Universities. Upon graduation, she had a razor sharp focus to work as a stylist. She was committed to her goal and worked as a nanny for Bert and Stacey Weiss co-founders of Bert’s Big Adventure, knowing that the perfect opportunity would become available. As luck would have it, Lulu’s commitment to follow her passion became a reality through her work with the Weisses. Lulu began styling the Weisses for events, organizing their closets and even helping to create looks and pack coordinating styles for out of town trips. “I even made a “look book” for Mr. Weiss that consisted of a picture of all of his styles including accessories. The look book instructed him on when to wear the outfit and how,” explains Medlock. It was not long before the Weisses began sharing with their network the gem they found in Medlock. Over time, Medlock began to style and organize for clients throughout the Metro Atlanta area.
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“I have been doing it on the side for forever. I always think of other people when I am shopping. I was the one who would tell my friends ‘I have the perfect shirt for that outfit.’”, shares Medlock. A year ago, she decided to begin styling full time and has not looked back since. Medlock offers a range of services to her clients. In addition to styling and organization she also offers gift and personal shopping; whole home organization; packing services; and special event and wedding services. Although she provides services to many high end clients, she is also hired by those with more moderate budgets. “Although what I provide are luxury services, I tailor my services to fit a prospective client’s budget,” says Medlock. This South Atlanta native has the knowledge and experience to improve the lives of anyone with whom she shares her gift and services. She approaches each client from an objective and non-judgmental perspective and is truly there to provide honest feedback to help them achieve their desired look. She leads her clients to choose the right clothing styles for their body type. She assists in streamlining wardrobes so that her clients do not have to spend a lot of money on creating the perfect wardrobe. “Streamlining may mean doing away with ten $7.00 shirts to buy one quality shirt that can be paired to create many different styles,” she explains. She also assists her male clients in realizing the power of custom clothing. Medlock has increased her clientele through her reputation and building quality relationships with her clients. She loves what she does and enjoys the feeling of helping others feel great. “Everyone wants to feel good; and when they do I feel great and it is so gratifying,” she shares.
Lindsey Medlock
LULU’S TOP FIVE LIFESTYLE TIPS 1. Everything needs a dedicated place. 2. You should be able to see everything you own. 3. Dress for your body type. 4. Where wardrobes are concerned “Less is more” 5. Keep it simple- stick to the basics.
Although what I provide are luxury services, I tailor my services to fit a prospective client’s budget, says Medlock. MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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PROFILE
{seventeen
going on 30
Katie Atkinson Profile: By: Vanecia A. Thompson
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ditor-in-chief of The Prowler school newspaper, American Society of News Editors youth advisory board member, intern for TheProspect.net, blogger for PeterPosts music blog, participant in the Asian American Journalists Association summer journalism camp and writer for Pulitzer Prize winning media enterprise, The Huffington Post. At 17, Katie Atkinson has accomplished what many college students and young professionals would envy—and she is just getting started. The junior at Union Grove high school in Henry County, Ga., is an aspiring journalist who is taking steps towards her dream of becoming a journalist for the Atlanta based news agency, CNN. “Ever since starting my first journalism class my freshman year, I’ve been hooked,” said Atkinson. Atkinson has always been a creative, dabbling in drawing and the arts as a child. She recalls getting the high school paper delivered to her middle school and falling in love. As she got lost in the articles each month, she also ran her finger over the printed names of the editors. She purposed in her heart that one day her name would be there. When she got to high school, she did just that. Sandra Hurtte, journalism advisor and honors English teacher at Union Grove high school, has known Atkinson for over two years. “She is the most driven, self-motivated and obsessed with journalism student that I have ever worked with,” said Hurtte. Hurtte recently nominated Atkinson for the 2014 Georgia Governor’s Honor Program in communicative arts. GHP is a four-week, summer residential program designed to provide intellectually gifted and artistically
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talented high school students challenging and enriching educational opportunities not usually available during the regular school year, according to the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement website. The highly selective program will provide Atkinson with the opportunity to be around peers who are as passionate about writing. Beyond the walls of her high school, Atkinson is constantly looking for new ways to hone her craft. Becoming a teen blogger for the Huffington Post has been one of her most challenging and rewarding experiences. “I’m just so glad that I get to write articles that resonate with people my age,” said Atkinson. But success does not always come easy for Atkinson. She struggled in math during her freshman year of high school and had to retake the course. “I didn’t want to start high school off like that,” said Atkinson. “That was embarrassing to me and disappointing but it was something I had to overcome.” Balancing all of her roles while being a student, daughter and older sister is sometimes easier said than done. She makes writing her priority while making time for Advanced Placement courses, homework and the needs of The Prowler staff. When asked if she considers herself successful, Atkinson hesitates and takes a deep breath. Her new years resolution is to stop letting numbers define her. Her class rank and grade point average are not at the top of her class but she has accomplished the things that she set out to succeed in thus far. “She has no understanding of truly how talented she is—she really doesn’t,” said Hurtte. “She’s phenomenal.”
(sidebar: Hobbies:
drinking coffee, reading, and writing
Inspiration: father
Favorite Food: Steak
Favorite book:
Dispatches from the Edge by Anderson Cooper
Favorite Movie: The Great Gatsby
Favorite Song: Down The Line by John Newnan
Dream School:
George Washington University
Future Career:
journalist for CNN
Quote to Live By:
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.”
She is the most driven, selfmotivated and obsessed with journalism student that I have ever worked with.
–Sandra Hurtte
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The Rules of the Road
MCDONOUGH DRIVING ACADEMY
TEACHES TEENS LIFE-SAVING SKILLS
by Valerie Baldowski photo by Picture This Studio
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magine being the parent of a teen who’s old enough to slide behind the wheel of the family vehicle and navigate traffic on the road, but knowing that they haven’t had the necessary training. It’s a scary thought, but a local teen driving school teaches the road skills all new drivers must learn. 1st Stop Georgia Driving Academy, located in McDonough, teaches students the rules of the road through classroom learning as well as behind-the-wheel training. Owner Freddie Briggs opened the driving school in 2011 after he and his wife, Erin, had trouble finding an affordable driver’s education program when their oldest son was trying to get his license. Since 2011, their program has grown a great deal both within Henry County as well as into surrounding communities. “Right now we’re averaging about 350 students a year, between McDonough and Griffin,” says Freddie. “We [also] have a location in Buford where we’re teaching drivers training to about 150 students a year.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 35,000 people die each year on the road. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teen drivers aged 15-18 years old. A contributing factor to teen accidents includes driver inexperience. The community-based company, 1st Stop Georgia Driving Academy, is dedicated to helping educate local teens to reduce this risk. 1st Stop Georgia Driving Academy is a licensed Department of Driver Services training school, and the facility is listed on the DDS website. One of the greatest promotional tools of the program is word-of-mouth advertising about what the school offers from parents of attendees and attendees themselves. Students who have enrolled in 1st Stop give it a thumbs up. “Before I took the class, I thought driving was easy,” says 15-yearold Cole Kinchen, a recent attendee. “Now I know that there are a lot of hidden dangers, with the worst being distractions, and how fast things can change and accidents can happen.” 46
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Gavin Deleshaw and Abbie Emory, Union Grove High School students who recently completed a course, describe how the course afforded them a new awareness of the road. Gavin, 16, explains, “It helped me learn the names of the interstates and how to get around, [it gave me] a lot of theoretical driving knowledge.” For him, parallel parking was one of the skills he mastered in the course. Abbie, 15, reports “The class helped me learn a lot of things I wouldn’t have thought I needed to know for driving.” For her, learning to take into account her blind spot as a driver was most useful. The skills that 1st Stop of Georgia teaches are mandatory. Joshua’s Law, which took effect in 2007, requires all 16- and 17-year old drivers applying for a class D license to take an approved driver’s education course. They must complete a total of 40 hours of supervised driving, six of which must be at night. Because of budget restrictions, schools no longer offer drivers education classes, so 1st Stop Georgia fills a void while complying with state law. “The primary focus for 1st Stop is to provide accessible and affordable training in a face to face setting,” Freddie says. “We want kids to get the background foundation of the rules and regulations of driving a motor vehicle from our classroom training before they get in the car. We believe this enables students to focus more on basic motor skills and focus on the road when they are behind the wheel. “Behind the wheel training is probably one of the most important tools we can give kids at this age,” he continues. “A lot of accidents are based on poor behavioral decisions, which means they are preventable. If we can talk a student through situations and thought processes that for many experienced drivers are instinctive, we can help students adopt strong behavioral thought processes.” 1st Stop Georgia Driving Academy has established partnerships with several local schools as a way of reaching out to students with an important message. “One of the things I preach to them is, if you fail math it’s not necessarily going to going to kill you, but having good driving behaviors can definitely save your life,” he adds.
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TRAVEL
C ELEB RAT I ON
by careshia moore
| by Valerie Baldowski photos by picture this studios | 48
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ithin the charming town of Celebration, Florida rests a delightful escape from the ordinary- Bohemian Hotel Celebration. The Kessler Collection boutique hotel features a luxe lobby inspired by nature with warm golden, cream and white décor reminiscent of sophisticated Floridian elegance. The hotel’s fine design, inspired by its owner Richard Kessler, includes a breathtaking Italian chandelier, natural linen furnishings, fresh orchids and handmade poplar bark tables. Captivating lakeside views invite guests to walk alongside the water for a stroll in the “unexpected Orlando,” take a swim in the inviting pool or relax in rocking chairs on the terrace, among lush red draperies, hickory branch chandeliers and rustic driftwood scones crafted from indigenous vines. When vacationers plan to visit Orlando, the world renowned theme parks and adventures may be high on the itinerary. However; just minutes away from the Magic Kingdom exists the perfect getaway for a family vacation, girls’ weekend, golfing trip or a romantic escape. Bohemian Hotel Celebration’s 115 guest rooms and suites welcome you with old-world elegance and contemporary conveniences. Featuring a luxe lobby inspired by nature with warm golden, cream and white décor, our boutique hotel exudes sophisticated Floridian elegance. Fresh orchids, original works of art and beautiful lakeside views provide a peaceful and inspiring stay you’ll never forget.
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TRAVEL
C ELEB RAT I ON
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Recently renovated with fresh paint, carpeting, drapes, and bedding, Lake View guestrooms at the Bohemian Hotel Celebration feature elegant décor in warm green and golden colors, reflecting a relaxing Old Florida atmosphere. The rooms offer a myriad of views of the lake or town and contain luxurious pillow top mattresses, Bose CD clock radios that pump sounds from the property’s signature CD that contains electric Bohemian tunes, custom artwork and all the amenities that make guests feel comfortable and relaxed. The Bohemian Bar and Grill offers a gourmet American menu, inviting guests and locals to relax in an approachable atmosphere, socialize with friends and family and enjoy delicious signature dishes. After an extraordinary, fresh New York style Reuben, black & blue Angus burger or Kessler Chophouse barrel filet mignon, guests may mingle at Bohemian Hotel’s lounge - a local hangout - enjoying signature martinis at the bar or world-famous Cuban mojitos on the lakeside terrace. Old Florida charm seamlessly blends with chic, modern touches at the Bohemian Celebration. From warm intimate dinners to extravagant affairs, itsstunning private dining space and expert planning staff create unforgettable events. Bohemian Hotel Celebration is minutes away from the best that Orlando has to offer. Located only minutes from the Orlando International Airport and the Orange County Convention Center, Bohemian Hotel Celebration is also the ideal venue for executive meetings, association conferences and corporate retreats. Enjoy wellappointed meeting spaces with panoramic lakeside views, an outdoor grand terrace and world-class service. With easy access to shopping, restaurants and the Celebration Town Center, a unique downtown square that harkens back to a by-gone era, your attendees won’t want the meetings to ever end. Bohemian Hotel Celebration is also the perfect place to say “I do”. The elegant weddings at Bohemian Hotel Celebration are meticulously coordinated down to the smallest of details. Whether it’s a ceremony for just the happy couple or a reception for 120 guests. Renowned for making wedding wishes come true amidst its chic artwork and luxe design, The Kessler Collection now offers brides and grooms a complimentary dream honeymoon. From inspiring accommodations and intimate service, to award-winning dining and relaxing spa treatments, lovebirds at The Kessler Collection enjoy a romantic ambiance with expertly appointed details. The elegance of Bohemian Hotel Celebration captivates its guests. Sit a spell while taking time to appreciate the everyday pleasantries of life. A night al fresco on the Lakeside Terrance will soothe you with sounds of rhythmic jazz, moody blues, and contemporary keyboard. Gentle vocals carry over the glimmering waters while murmurs of a guitar parlay on our front porch. Be reminded of a time when life was simpler and t Bohemian Hotel Celebration lures guests in with the “Fish Tales” adventure, part of The Kessler Collection’s Extraordinary Experiences. Gear up and cast your line into serene Lake Toho located in Kissimmee, Florida and head out for six hours of guided, unlimited bass fishing on a fully rigged, tournament ready 20-foot Triton bass boat.
For more information or to make a reservation at Bohemian Hotel Celebration, please visit www.celebrationhotel.com or call 407.566.6000 or toll-free 888.249.4007.
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FEATURE
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YEARS PROVIDING
TWO DECADES AND TWO GENERATIONS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
By: Careshia Moore
I
n August 1985 Larry Carder realized that his experiences as a pest control
technician would be better used in his own business. He had been a licensed pest control technician since 1976 and quite frankly had learned the dos and don’ts of the industry and had ideas of how he wanted to incorporate his own values into his business. In Fayetteville, Georgia he found a small office to begin his own pest control service. He arrived to his first customers in a Ford Ranger and a few pieces of equipment- and the rest is history. MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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FEATURE
“Active was one of my children. I nourished it and tried to keep it on the straight and narrow. I focused on one thing–being successful.” Twenty-nine years later and the business that Carder began on a shoestring budget is now poised to gross revenue of over $15 million at the end of 2016. Carder is the visionary behind the Active’s brand. From the outset he knew exactly how he wanted his business to run and he knew early that the foundation of the business would be good service. “People deserved the right to have good service. We trained our people to be good technicians,” explains Carder. A husband and father of three sons and five daughters, he ran the business with a goal in mind: success. “Active was one of my children. I nourished it and tried to keep it on the straight and narrow. I focused on one thing-being successful,” reflects Carder. Carder developed long standing relationships with his customers and instilled this same principal in his employees. Active quickly became a family business where employees, spouses and children became a family. In fact, Carder’s eight children grew up in and around the business while he had the support of his devoted wife. Two of his sons have worked in the business. They started working part-time during the summers for their
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dad. The business made such an impression on son, Tony Carder that he too went into the pest control business. When Tony became an adult he worked for other companies but soon realized that all pest control companies were not created equal. He became a certified operated and went to work for his dad at Active. It was not long before he worked his way up the ranks at Active and began to fill management roles. Through the 1990s the company continued to grow exponentially. Active now has over 40,000 customers and nine offices located in metro Atlanta, Macon and Sugarland, Texas. What is even more amazing is that they have experienced this growth even during a change in leadership. In 2005, Larry Carder developed health issues that caused enough concern for his family to suggest that he retire from his position as the president of the company. Although, the senior Carder would no longer lead the company he built from the ground up and had developed over the last 20 years he could trust that it would be in the very capable hands of his son Tony. “In early 2000 I knew I was being primed for the position,” shares Tony. In 2006, Tony purchased the company from his father and
dedicated himself to maintaining the standard that had been established by his father from the inception of the business. Active has maintained its level of success and service throughout the toughest economic times. During a time when many companies had to close their doors, Active was able to thrive. From 2008 through the present, the business has increased its revenue by $4.5 million. “When the economy crashed we knew we wanted smart business people from outside the industry,” explains Tony. Active recruited and hired people who were looking to move into a new industry; and proved to be great assets to the company. Active continues to provide exceptional service to its customers with its service offerings such as termite protection, wildlife removal, heat control for bedbugs and pest control. The company provides full protection for its clients and educates its clients on the services it provides. In 2012, Active was named as one of the top 100 (#74) pest control companies out of over 10,000 companies nationwide. Active’s customers consistently describe the company as “the best”. In order to continue this reputation, Active invests in its employees.
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FEATURE
It ensures that its technicians maintain education and participate in professional development opportunities to learn new laws and industry trends,” shares Carder. Active uses the industries latest innovations and technology to best serve its customers. “We use environmentally friendly products and participate in continuous training above and beyond what the Department of Agriculture provides,” shares Carder. As the company continues to focus on termite protection and pest control, Tony envisions Active penetrating the Southeastern market. When asked about the legacy of Active, Tony quickly says, “Hopefully my kids (ages 11 and 14) will one day take over the business and create a 3rd generation of ownership of the company.” As for Mr. Carder, he is enjoying watching the fruits of his labor flourish. He admits that in the early days of the business his biggest competitor was himself. “I had to get myself out of bed every morning and put forth the effort to do a good job,” shares Carder. As a result of his amazing effort, Active has grown from one man with minimal equipment and a yellow Volkswagen to a staff of about 103 employees. His vision and ideals on serving customers contribute hugely to the success of the company. Active still maintains its family environment among the employees and proudly serves its customers daily. “In developing relationships with employees people skills are important. It takes the company to the next level. I have learned that if you take care of the employees they will take great care of your customers,” shares Carder. In addition to the Active family, the Carder family maintains a close bond as well. Carder enjoys spending time with his fifteen grandchildren, fishing and watching football. It is obvious that Carder and his son Tony enjoy their familial and business bond. Their love for the business is evident and their love for one another and their family shines through their interaction. Undeniably, Active was founded on a solid foundation and will continue to be a top competitor in the pest control industry. In 2015 it will open two new offices in Tennessee and Midtown Atlanta. In 2016 the company projects to generate over $15 million in revenue. It will continue opening new offices and pursing aggressive advertising campaigns to spread the word about their dynamic company and earn the business of new customers.
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Mr. Carder says it best when he says “Active stands for itself ”.
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TRAVEL
florida
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SandPiper Bay
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lub Med pioneered the allinclusive concept more than 60 years ago and continues to reinforce their positioning as the leader in the industry with new and innovative resorts. In 1950, Gerard Blitz and Gilbert Trigano founded the first village on the island of Majorca in Spain, following their philosophy that vacations should be both exciting and rejuvenating. In 1967, Mini Club Med™ was created for children with activities specifically designed for the little ones. In 1970, the brand expanded worldwide to Asia, Africa, and the Americas, and in 2010, Club Med celebrated 60 years of happiness. Club Med is comprised of 71 All-inclusive resorts in 25 countries around the world and contains resorts for everyone from sunny Caribbean beaches to snow-capped ski slopes in the Alps.
Located in Port St. Lucie, Florida, Club Med Sandpiper Bay is the brand’s only all-inclusive in the United States and their Flagship premium sports resort. Situated on 216 acres, it is the ideal destination for active families and re-opened in December 2010 after renovations with enhancements including Deluxe Family Rooms, the Club Med Spa by L’Occitane, Kidz Village, four swimming pools and a splash park, the Club Med Academies, a new main restaurant, a stunning waterfront wedding gazebo, improvements to the 18-hole course and most recently, the new innovative 360° Active Wellness concept, which focuses on four key elements of personalization, sports, rejuvenation and nutrition. This resort features 307 club rooms and deluxe rooms located on the banks of the St. Lucie River on Florida’s Treasure Coast, halfway story cont’d on page 60
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florida
TRAVEL
SandPiper Bay MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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florida cont’d from page 57
between Miami and Orlando. It also offers meeting rooms ranging in size from 483 to 6,466 square feet for groups from 20 to 552 people. Dining at Sandpiper Bay includes The Marketplace buffet-style restaurant serving delectable international cuisine; Soleil, a waterfront restaurant featuring a gourmet menu; and Riverside Grill, serving a classic, American menu with magnificent views over the St. Lucie River. The property also includes two bars, Slice Bar and Lounge and the Infinity Bar, that provide a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages all day. It is closely situated to offsite cultural and adventure activities such as an airboat ride, family fishing on the St. Lucie River, Eco-tour of the river, meet with the dolphins, Wave Runner rentals and beach tours and Orlando theme parks.
SPORTS TRAINING Since Club Med’s origin in the 1950’s, sports have been an integral part of the legendary brands’ vacation philosophy. With the strength and history that Club Med has in sports and wellness, the 360° Active Wellness concept allows Sandpiper to strengthen their sports offerings for active families – giving them access to the best facilities, equipment and professional coaching while on vacation – a formula not found anywhere else. Sandpiper Bay offers sports enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of elite facilities and instruction during
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their stay. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced group lessons are available for guests as young as four years-old, and weekly tournaments allow players of all ages to test their mettle against other fierce competitors as well. An emphasis on fundamentals (such as proper footwork, movement, grip and swing mechanics) permeates every activity. For runners, triathletes or fitness aficionados of any kind, the Club Med Fitness and Triathlon Academy at Sandpiper Bay is the ultimate environment for recreation and relaxation. Located in Port St. Lucie, Florida, the resort welcomes novice to elite athletes with unparalleled world-class infrastructures and a professional coaching staff – all within the legendary Club Med all-inclusive environment where every creature comfort is at your fingertips. Whether you’re looking to take a first time class or need one-on-one time with a professional, the instruction is unique and personalized for each guest. Elite training and elite facilities come hand-in-hand at The Club Med Fitness and Triathlon Academy. A completely new 2,500 sq. ft. fitness area, which now features stateof-the-art Life Fitness equipment, including Keiser spinning bikes, a 5-lane lap pool, fully weighted Olympic rack and platform, multi-directional weighted pulley stations and outdoor regeneration and yoga areas is just one way Club Med is changing the landscape
of high-performance sports training. Classes include Personal Training, Zumba and Yoga – so guests can continue their wellness journey through programs designed to balance the body and mind through a range of classes from high intensity to relax/recharge options. Club Med’s 2575 Triathlon introduces a new approach to the triathlon sport. The number 2575 represents the distance, in kilometers, raced by athletes in a sprint triathlon. Triathletes competing in the race will swim .75 km (.46 miles), bike 20 km (12.4 miles) and run 5 km (3.1 miles). Since most athletes participate in sprint-distances, the 2575 Triathlon is geared toward the widest and greatest market of athletes, ensuring benefits to everyone involved, and the reason why the company is growing the concept both nationally and internationally.
TENNIS ACADEMY More than just a place for aspiring tennis juniors and top-ranked professionals, the Club Med Tennis Academy also has innovative and incomparable programs for adults, children as young as four year-old, families, and the all-inclusive guest that will add a spark to their game, leaving them wanting more opportunities to learn and play in a world-class training environment. Vacationers at Club Med Sandpiper Bay have the opportunity to train with world-renowned coaches, just like yearround students, all within the distinguished
SandPiper Bay
Club Med all-inclusive environment. The daily group classes for all levels teach the basic skills of tennis, while unique personalized lessons offer one-on-one time with a professional. At Sandpiper Bay’s Club Med Tennis Academy in Port St. Lucie, Florida, two of the world’s finest instructors have combined to create a tennis training environment second to none. Tennis Director Gabe Jaramillo brings his experience as the 26-year director of the Bollerrieri Junior Tennis Program, as well as expertise garnered while he developed eight #1 players and 26 Top-10 players in the world— including the likes of Andre Agassi and Monica Seles. In addition, Scott Del Mastro contributes his twenty years of experience as a coach and trainer, during which he forged the belief that teaching mental toughness can strengthen athletes on and off the court. Programs cater to the goals of each athlete, working backward from those goals to present day in order to chart a path to success. Elite training requires elite facilities, and The Club Med Tennis Academy offers both in spades. Four hours a day, split into dual sessions, athletes will prowl the academy’s 6 Hydro clay courts and 14 hard courts with Babolat™ racquets in hand under the guidance of instructors guaranteed never to exceed a 4:1 player-to-coach ratio. Professional video analysis, a 12,000 sq. ft. clubhouse and a new pro shop stocked with the latest tennis gear all
add to this comprehensive training facility as well, making it the perfect place to hone the minds, bodies and skills of the next generation of tennis champions.
SPAS Club Med Sandpiper Bay is home to the ¬ first and only L’Occitane-branded Spa in North America. Life-enriching experiences designed to bring body, mind and spirit into balance are the fabric of the Club Med Spa by L’Occitane life; and whether exploring a new way to experience Provence, practicing the mindfulness of Yoga or being caressed by gentle breezes in a Zen garden; the Club Med Spa by L’Occitane partners with nature in delivering an experience of relaxed, renewed and restorative wellness. Founded by Olivier Baussan more than 30 years ago, L’Occitane captures the true art de vivre of Provence, offering a sensorial immersion in the natural beauty, fragrance and lifestyle of the South of France. From the texture of L’Occitane products to their fragrance, each formula promises delight through beauty and well-being – a moment rich in enjoyment and discovery that goes beyond tangible bene¬fits to create a different experience of Provence. The Spa offers more than 30 treatments including soothing facials, massages, wraps, scrubs and slimming therapies based on traditional and contemporary healing techniques.
With seven treatment rooms, a manicure and pedicure area, Zen Lounge, deluxe couples treatment room and a L’Occitane boutique featuring more than 80 products (as well as nail care, waxing and hair care) the Club Med Spa by L’Occitane provides guests with the escape they’re looking for. For more information, please visit www. Sandpiperbay.Clubmed.Us and for groups information www.Clubmedbusiness.Us
The weekly all-inclusive fitness program delivers the following classes for all levels: 7:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 5:15 p.m.
5k Run Adult Swim Stretching Power Walk Cardio Kickboxing Spin Class Body Toning Aqua Gym ZUMBA Spin Class Pilates Yoga
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FEATURE
By: Brian Smith
Riding is freedom of soul, comedy is freedom of expression. The therapeutic release you
C Y C L E N A T I
O N
photos by picture this studio
experience by laughing is similar to the sense of self you get by riding.....
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o generate interest, many dealerships will host a monthly “Bike Night”. These events usually feature motorcycle enthusiasts dropping by the store for food, light refreshments, and to socialize with other riders. “All cycle stores do a bike night,” says Dean Moorhead, Cycle Nation General Manager. “We of course fell in line and had them too and said this is cool but, now do something different.” The first rule in business is to increase sales, primarily through advertising and marketing. However, motorcycle dealerships tend to have smaller advertising budgets than their automotive counterparts. Therefore, spreading the word about their products in an economical manner requires more creativity. However, Cycle Nation of McDonough, Georgia decided to “get out of the box” and take a different tactic with exposing the public to their sleek motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs), scooters, utility vehicles, and watercrafts. Instead of the customary Biker’s Night, the dealership launched a monthly comedy night last year and it has been a resounding success! The event is called “Riders & Jokers Comedy Night” It happens the last Thursday of every month at Cycle Nation and its free and open to the public. “Every time we do comedy night, we have new faces that come into the dealership not knowing what to expect. They see the most amazing machines on earth, laugh their faces off, and leave with and experience that’s impossible not to talk about round the water cooler the next day,” says Moorhead. “It’s the people who are not into the biker lifestyle but come to comedy night that I am most interested in.” Moorhead credits the event with helping to introduce his motorcycles and related products to an all new audience. “People who come for the jokers, sit with the riders, and get a taste of the lifestyle.” The Riders and Jokers Comedy Night is the brainchild of Timothy Gonzalez, Marketing Manager at Cycle Nation. “I like to make people laugh and exposing them to stand-up comedy,” says Gonzalez. “That’s what I am known for…..bringing together the most diverse people for an unforgettable experience.” It was no accident that Gonzalez launched a monthly comedy night to introduce the public to Cycle Nation. Not only does he own a company called No Cover Comedy that books comedians at clubs, he also performs between 150 to 200 times per year at comedy venues along the East Coast. Gonzalez has opened for some of the biggest names in comedy such as Ron White, Chris Tucker, Rob Shapiro, Doug Benson, and Margaret Cho. “One of the biggest hurdles that we have is our location,” says Gonzalez. “We have been here for a number of years but we need to let more people in our community know who we are and what we about,” he says. “When I told Dean that I have been doing comedy for years, a light went off,” says Gonzalez. “He said, can we do that here, and I said yes. By all accounts, Riders & Jokers Comedy Night is a huge success. According to Moorhead, when Cycle Nation hosted Bikers Night, the average attendance was around twenty people. However, on comedy night, the store is packed with over one hundred individuals.
C Y C L E N A T I
“I like to make people laugh and exposing them to standup comedy,” says Gonzalez. “That’s what I am known for….. ........bringing together the most diverse people for an unforgettable experience.”
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Each show features between four to seven performers, and always boasts a nationally touring “headline” comic who has appeared on major television networks such as Comedy Central and HBO. Some of the “headline” acts that have performed at Cycle Nation are Mike Speenburg, Mia Jackson, and Chaunte’ Wayans, who is related to the internationally renowned Wayans brothers, producers of the hit comedy show “In Living Color” that aired on the Fox Television Network from 1990 thru 1994. Cycle Nation is able to attract such talent due to the connections of Gonzalez. Although the performers get paid, the shows are free. “I am just grateful that Dean allows this to happen,” says Gonzalez. In addition to comedy, Cycle Nation also is very active in many community events. The dealership is a major corporate sponsor of Warrior Golf Camps of America. The non-profit organization offers camps and counseling sessions that provide therapeutic recreational and counseling programs to help veterans and their loved ones successfully live with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury, and other mental and physical disorders. Cycle Nation also participates in annual blood drives, pet adoptions, delivering teddy bears to children in the hospital, holiday toy drives, and provides financial support to a family every Christmas who is experiencing economic hardship. “I am a give back, karma kind of guy,” says Moorhead. “Every day I look for an opportunity to give back and help.” When Moorhead was approached to become a corporate sponsor of Warrior Golf Camps of America, he immediately seized the opportunity. The 33 year old Army veteran served in the infantry in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He can readily appreciate the trauma that many veterans experience after serving in battle. “Being a medium sized dealership, we do not have a huge marketing budget to advertise; therefore, we look for opportunities to give back to the community,” according to Moorhead. ““Some dealerships will take a thousand dollars and buy a billboard, but I don’t. I would rather use that money to help someone in the community.” Cycle Nation’s approach is apparently are having a positive impact not only on the community in which it’s located, but also on its bottom line. The dealership has nearly doubled its loyal customer base, and uniquely engages with its ten thousand Facebook followers. According to Moorhead, “Our biggest challenge is getting people to understand that you ride for the feeling, not to get somewhere. Americans want freedom, expression, and community.” Timothy Gonzalez echoes Moorhead’s vision for the business. “The thing that most excites me about Cycle Nation is exposing people to a lifestyle that they have never thought about before. They can see how fun and exciting riding can be, and the price is so affordable.” With 29 employees in the sales and service department, Moorhead says his primary goal is to continue growing the business. He credits the close knit staff and their commitment with helping to drive growth. “Everyone is extremely tight in the dealership and it is quite a dynamic,” says Moorhead. “We are a family, and most of the employees got into the business because they are riders.”
C Y C L E N A T I
According to Moorhead, “Our biggest challenge is getting people to understand that you ride for the feeling, not to get somewhere. Americans want freedom, expression, and community.”
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back row: Comissioner Avery Niles, Major General James Butterworth, Comissioner Keith Horton seated: First Lady Sandra Deal, Katie Jo Ballard
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FEATURE
From the Desk of
Our First Lady S TAT E O F G E O RG I A
Children’s Cabinet by Sandra Deal, First Lady of Georgia
photo by Picture This Studio
Georgia’s Children’s Cabinet Looks to Focus on the Creative Talents of Youth.
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he Georgia Children’s Cabinet is partnering with me to recognize the talents of youth writers and emphasize writing skills as a tool for creative expression. The Cabinet consists of state agency leaders as well as community partners who work to align policy and create targeted communications to mobilize all Georgians to see that our children have an opportunity to thrive. Each month the Cabinet chooses to highlight a different topic affecting our youth. “The youth writers initiative will empower our children and give an authentic youth voice to our work,” said Katie Jo Ballard, co-chair of the Cabinet. In concert with the Cabinet’s upcoming highlights, a youth will be selected to showcase his or her work. We are partnering with
Commissioner Avery Niles of the Department of Juvenile Justice, Major General James Butterworth of the Georgia National Guard, and Commissioner Keith Horton of the Department of Human Services. Each of these state agencies has unique programs to equip young people with the tools to be successful. By engaging in the Youth Writers Initiative, the participants will be recognized for their writing skills. The finalist whose work is selected will represent their respective agency and have the opportunity to interview their leader. Their composition will be featured online. Georgia’s Children are our most valuable asset. We want them to dream big and work toward reaching their goals. Learning to write creatively and effectively is an important skill for achieving future success.
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PROFILE
Victory The Marlon Allen Profile: By: Lynita Mitchell-Blackwell & Sonji Willingham
W
hen people come to church, they should enjoy it.” Marlon Allen, Pastor of Victorious Living Church in Dacula, Georgia shared these words as we sat down to discuss his life and church. A commanding figure at 6’6”, the former Cincinnati Reds baseball player exudes confidence and charm, making it easy to see how he has grown his congregation that began in the midst of recession into a thriving ministry in just three short years. Victorious Living Church began as five families meeting in Pastor Allen’s home, and has grown to 15 engaged families who were not previously “plugged in” to any other church. They meet every Sunday at Dacula High School in its state-of-the art 500-seat auditorium, incorporating video and other technology to encourage and inspire attendees. In addition to the essential ministries of praise, worship, prayer, music, hospitality, and children; Victorious Living also has an incredible outreach ministry where they partner with established, successful agencies to support their work. The church’s flagship partnership is with the Gwinnett County Department of Family & Children’s Services where church members raise funds so children may purchase brand name, brand new shoes from Sports Authority. An unapologetic sports enthusiast, Pastor Allen incorporates his love of sports and the discipline he learned while playing for the Cincinnati Reds into a powerful set of core values that comprise the culture of Victorious Living Church - The Vow. The Vow is a straight-
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forward summarization of and the ultimate sports-lovers’ guide to worship, evangelism, and joy. Pastor Allen readily shares that he “is not sure why God gave him Dacula as his ‘foreign country’”, but could not be happier. Moving here to be a Professional Scouter with the Boy Scouts in 2009, Pastor Allen and his family love the Gwinnett community. His wife of 12 years, Tasha “my right hand” and a UGA grad - is a former banker turned stay-at-home mom, an active member of the PTA where their six year old son, Marlon “MJ” Junior goes to school, and substitute teaches on days when their three year old daughter, Sarah, goes to school half-days. Pastor Allen now serves as the Development Officer for the Hudgeons Center for the Arts. He is the President-Elect of the Gwinnett Rotary Club, Facilitator for the B.A.S.I.C.S World of Works Program in the Lee Arrendale and Phillips Transitional Centers, and has been nominated for the next Leadership Gwinnett Class. Pastor Allen also serves as a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences as an athlete who left school during his third year at Columbus State to play professional sports, only to return to complete his degree when he was cut five years later without warning. Ever optimistic and focused on positive outcomes, Pastor Allen ended with this statement: “Everything God has done for me, I can chalk up to a win. Even in hard times, it was God’s hands in my life, pulling me up so I can experience victory.”
Everything God has done for me, I can chalk up to a win. Even in hard times, it was God’s hands in my life, pulling me up so I can experience victory.
Marlon Allen
our
Vow: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
We love God and the Church. We study the playbook (the Bible). We are united under one vision. We keep score. Every person represents a life of victory. We recruit year around. “We don’t rebuild, we reload.” Jesus is the standard of excellence in all that the church does, so it does not need to be rebuilt, it needs to be replenished with new members of the team. We don’t spectate. Victorious Living members aggressively seek opportunities to give and serve. We run the Flea Flicker. (The Flea Flicker is a football play that requires the quarterback to take a bold risk.) In the context of Victorious Living Church, members are encouraged to take bold risks to communicate the gospel, striving to deliver messages that relate to people’s lives.
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Women’s College
w ww.br enau.edu
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YFZ®450R
YZF-R1®
$ + 1000 500
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CYCLE NATION OF MCDONOUGH
Riders & Jokers Comedy Night Open House Last Thursday of every month 755 INDUSTRIAL BLVD MCDONOUGH GA, 302536614 770-957-7404 Ya m a h a . T h e 1 st N a m e i n M o t o rs p o r t s ™ . *Customer Cash offer good on select 2010-2014 models between 3/1/14-6/30/14. **Trade in your Motorcycle and get an additional $500 towards the purchase of an eligible unregistered 2010-2013 1000cc or larger motorcycle, between 3/1/14 and 6/30/14. Offer good only in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. · Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ATV models shown are recommended for use only by riders 16 years and older. YFZ450R recommended for experienced riders only. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never carry passengers. Never engage in stunt riding. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Avoid excessive speed. And be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Professional riders depicted on closed courses. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com 3/14
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“POWER DOWN” PACKAGE AT THE LODGE AND SPA AT CALLAWAY GARDENS May – August 2014 (Package rates starting at $199 per night) - Overnight accommodations - Admission to Callaway Gardens - Picnic for two and a keepsake blanket to enjoy in the Gardens
Power Down at The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens
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he Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens, an elegant interpretation of a traditional mountain lodge, is nestled in the southernmost foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. This destination offers solace, inspiration and discovery for all who seek relaxation combined with southern charm. The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens is a member of the Autograph Collection – a distinct group of unique properties carefully selected to represent an upscale line of prestigious hotels. The property consists of 150 meticulously decorated suites and guest rooms with features ranging from private balconies overlooking the lush landscape, comfortable queen and king-sized beds, cozy sofas and flat screen televisions. The Lodge and Spa also offers its guests extraordinary dining options at its Piedmont Grille and Ironwood Lounge providing the freshest and tastiest in southern fare. The seasonally changing menu provides eclectic options that range from organically sourced tasty meals to a Friday night seafood buffet. Guests can also dine in a variety of environments ranging from the pub style grill, outdoor courtyard setting and in-room dining options. The on-site Spa Prunifolia provides a nurturing environment where its guests can bask in the lap of luxury in the 13,000 square-foot spa haven. The spa contains 13 soothing treatment rooms, a salon and men’s and women’s relaxation areas, which feature steam rooms, saunas and lounges. The spa also offers an exclusive line of treatment products, creams and soaps that create the ultimate rejuvenation experience. Currently, The Lodge and Spa is offering a special summer package for visitors who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.
“Power Down” at The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens invites guests to take a digital detox and reconnect face-to-face {without Facebook} this summer. The “Power Down” program offers summer goers the opportunity to stash their electronic devices in exchange for a digital-free, unplugged experience in a naturally beautiful setting. Offered May through August 2014, Lodge-style deluxe accommodations, an old-fashioned picnic and a peaceful walk through lush gardens, awaits guests looking to unplug and recharge. Unplugged travelers enjoy a picnic for two packed with decadent bites like Sweet Tea Marinated Chicken Breast Sandwiches and Black Eyed Pea Hummus along with a keepsake blanket to enjoy in the Gardens. The “Power Down” package includes access into the gardens, which offers a variety of activities to choose from, including The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, one of North America’s largest glass-enclosed tropical butterfly conservatories, the Virginia Hand Discovery Center, the Birds of Prey show, Cason’s Vegetable Gardens, Robin Lake Beach and the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center. The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens is operated by Interstate Hotels & Resorts (www.interstatehotels.com), the leading U.S.based global hotel management company. For more details, visit: www.AutographCollectionHotels.com or visit: http://www.callawaylodgeandspa.com. For more information or to reserve the “Power Down” package at The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens, please call (866) 750-3980 or visit www.callawaylodgeandspa.com/specials/ MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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LIFESTYLE
Brent Hardgrave Aging...Everyone is Doing it...Not me. by Brent Hardgrave photo by Kira-Marie Photography
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ick tock, tick tock the clock keeps going. Aging gracefully these days has gotten to be much easier to achieve. I am going to take you on a journey from Mild to Wild in the arena of Aesthetics and Wellness. So much has changed as the Baby Boomers come into their own. What I know to be true is, preventative maintenance is key. Get to it before it gets to you. It can be done. To get started, you need to find a doctor that understands your goals and has the skills to help you. I chose Dr. Linda Kelley at Cobb Wellness and Aesthetics. Dr. Kelley has a beautiful way of helping manage the aging process. What I love about her is, she asks what I feel I need, instead of the high pressure sale. That in itself is a relief. You know about Botox, The Poison That Heals. It softens wrinkles and fine lines. When it comes to improving our skin’s appearance, there is so much more. Have you heard of Carboxy Therapy? It removes broken blood vessels and stretch marks- improving circulation and skin elasticity. The treatment uses carbon dioxide to heal the skin and uses nature to nurture it. Have you heard of The Vampire Facial or Facelift? It is amazing. This method uses your own PRP, Platelet Rich Plasma, to give spectacular results. Your blood is drawn, they spin it and extract the PRP. They then inject it back into the areas that need the boost; right on top of the fillers. It is a real plumper. It can also be used on top of the skin, using a MicroPen to stamp the outer layer of skin. My own plasma has helped to heal wounds from a Bike accident. This treatment helps you heal yourself. Love handles, I am not in love. Exilis is probably one of my favorite body treatments. It burns fat and tightens the skin. It can be used in many ways. It is non-invasive and actually like a hot stone massage.
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LIFESTYLE
Jessica Shops
by Jessica Dauler
Fitting regular exercise into your daily schedule may seem difficult at first, but if you find something you love you’re more likely to be motivated and stick with it. These days there are so many workout options, it’s tough to decide which one will be best for you. I’ve listed a few of my favorites that are all very different, very effective and depending on what you like will help you find your workout groove. Atlanta Fitness Diva Atlanta Fitness Diva is a specialized training facility dedicated to women by women. This female only center is dedicated to giving Atlanta women the “best of the best” in fitness with expert female trainers in a luxury boutique style environment. Their workouts are based on scientific research of the female metabolism & building the fat burning potential of each client. They focus on women’s trouble spots, stubborn fat reduction, and design shape building workouts. They offer free weights, cables, and functional stations but they offer what others do not, 9 lower body machines, 40% incline treadmill, and the Jacob ladder trainer, all very effective for stubborn lower body fat. Small group classes are really small with only 4-8 ladies in each sessions which means you get the personal attention and instruction along with the energy and support that is created with a small group of ladies. www.AtlantaFitnessDiva.com 855 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE Sandy Springs, GA. 30328 404-531-5000 Kettlebells Condition Kettlebell Gym was founded in October 2007 by Delaine Ross and has since grown to seven instructors – all who found kettlebell training at Condition, fell in love and decided to get certified to teach there. The highlights of kettlebell training include increased strength and lean muscle, a minimal time investment, 3 times a week for 45 minutes is ideal for most people, a well rounded strength, cardio, and mobility – all at the same time – so you not only look better, but move and feel better as well! Condition’s classes are designed for all fitness levels – from the absolute beginner to the elite 84
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…FOR “FITNESS”
athlete. The only difference is that people of different levels pick up different weights. All new members are required to take the Introductory Workshop before attending regular classes. This workshop ensures that all new people can perform the basics safely and keeps the pace of the regular classes from slowing down. The classes are 45 minutes and are held up to 6 times a day in order to fit into anyone’s busy schedule. 659 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (404) 380-1111 Orange Effect Fairly new to the Atlanta area, Orangetheory Fitness is a one-of-a-kind, group personal training workout that burns up to 500-1,000 calories in a 60-minute session. The result is the Orange Effect –more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn for up to 36 hours post-workout. This fastgrowing concept is the first heart-rate-monitored, high-intensity interval training based on science. Each unique 60-minute session is broken into intervals of cardiovascular and strength training led by experienced staff, producing a tremendous metabolic increase and calorie burn for up to 36 hours after the workout. The Orangetheory formula is unlike anything else in fitness. Currently there are 3 locations in the Atlanta area with 3 more scheduled to open in 2014. www.orangetheoryfitness.com Concourse Club For those who prefer a traditional club more like a country club, tennis club atmosphere, Concourse Athletic Club is Atlanta’s premier athletic club. Often described as a full-service athletic club with a country club atmosphere, they pride themselves on offering high-caliber amenities, staff and programs resulting in the ultimate in fitness centers. A large part of the club like atmosphere is a result of social events, happy hour, sports mixers and pool parties. Plus a spa, tennis, racquetball and basketball facilities. And then of course there is cardio entertainment, weight training and fitness classes that are the not so fun part of membership. www.wellbridge.com/concourse-athleticclub/sandy-springs.
Finally, if you are not at all interested in any type of workout, you can still do something good for your body by trying a popular juice cleanse. They really work and most people lose up to 5lbs in 5 days. Roots Juices Roots Juices, one of Atlanta’s favorite juice bars, is dedicated to juice with the highest nutritional value. Each 16-ounce juice is made up of an estimated two to three pounds of locally grown fruits and vegetables. By pushing their produce through a hydraulic cold pressed juicer, Roots Juices yields a product packed with vitamins, minerals and live enzymes, not to mention a shelf- life of up to five days. All products are 100 percent natural, with more than 17 different juices and blends to choose from. Their cleanse kits come in 3 different levels for beginner, intermediate and advanced juicers and helps clean the toxins out of your body while promoting a healthy lifestyle with plenty of nutrients. www.rootspressedjuices.com 3400 Shops Around Lenox, Suite 202-A, Atlanta, GA 30326 Best of luck in your journey to fitness!
Jessica Dauler JessicaShops.com Saving is Always In Style Twitter.com/JessicaShops Facebook.com/JessicaShops MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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photos by pictur e this studio
WE ARE
& music
camera-ready by careshia moore
| Lee Thomas & Lisa Love spearhead the movement |
PROFILE
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t is no secret that one of the largest franchise movies, Hunger Games: Catching Fire and the hit AMC television show The Walking Dead is filmed in Georgia. What may come as a surprise to most is that there is quite a history and process that goes into attracting such highly acclaimed shows to the state. Lee Thomas, Director of Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office is at the helm of the process that aims to persuade production companies to shoot here in Georgia instead of in other states or countries. A veteran in the film industry and seventeen years with Georgia’s Entertainment Office, Thomas has witnessed many changes within the last ten years. “When I first started it was all about location. We spent a tremendous amount of time trying to find the right location, but locations are no longer the driving force. Economics are the bottom line and the process begins inthe accounting offices of the major studios,” reflects Thomas. As a result of its enticing tax incentive program, Georgia is now on the short list of places that major studios now shoot. Thomas leads a small staff that handles great responsibility in ensuring that Georgia continues to solidify its space in the film and entertainment industry. Considered as “eleven crews deep,” Georgia is able to provide the infrastructure and support for eleven television shows or films simultaneously. The process for attracting a film begins with Thomas’ office receiving a script and breaking the script down shot by shot. The state’s Camera Ready Program has been instrumental in assisting with this process. “We have a large digital library of locations throughout the state, and 144 of 159 counties designated as Camera Ready. We provide the studios with location shots based upon the script. If they like the package they come here and we assist in finding production office space, crew, equipment and logistics,” explains Thomas. The 144 Camera Ready communities in Georgia play a huge role in attracting the studios as well. “These communities help us do our job better. We are very proud of the program. It has been a huge success as it gets the communities engaged. When studios are shooting outside of Atlanta, which we encourage them to do, it gives them a point of contact.” The Camera Ready communities not only get the benefit of boasting
the production in their area, but it is a huge economic boost to the community from a nonpolluting industry. When the studios film in these areas they spend a lot of money on the ground in these areas. “We are working hard to get the last 15 counties on board,” shares Thomas. In addition to the Camera Ready program and the infrastructure and crew base provided, there are other factors that are instrumental in attracting films to Georgia. A competitive tax incentive, a temperate climate, geographical diversity within the state and the ease to access of Hartsfield-Jackson airport have all proved to be features that make Georgia attractive for film production. “Georgia has metropolitan areas, plains, a coast line, mountains and little towns. We also have an airport that provides 26 flights per day to and from Los Angeles which helps when filming a show like Hunger Games: Catching Fire that transports thirty or forty actors in and out of Georgia. The combination of all these factors have put us on the map. We are uniquely situated for the film business,” says Thomas. With the growing industry, Georgia can now boast over eighty production support companies, twelve sound stages and a growing film tourism market. “It is growing organically. We have been so successful that we don’t have enough crew for all the shows that want to come in. We now have an initiative to assemble representatives from the colleges, universities, technical schools and sound stages to determine needs and propose solutions on how to best address them,” Thomas explains.
Lisa Love In addition to the growing film industry, Georgia’s music scene has also garnered much attention over many decades. Lisa Love, Director of Music Marketing and Development, oversees sales and marketing initiatives to assist in the retention, expansion, development and growth of Georgia’s music industry. By all accounts she is a music aficionado and has a pulse on all things pertaining to music in the state. Love’s knowledge of how Georgia has been a canvas for our nation’s music landscape will dazzle even the most astute students of music history. “Georgia musicians have made an impact on sales charts and culture since the advent of the recording industry,” shares Love. From pioneers Gid Tanner and the Skillet Lickers, cont’d next page MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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“The Mother of the Blues” Ma Rainey and “The Father of Gospel Music” Dr. Thomas Dorsey to legends Ray Charles, Little Richard, James Brown and Otis Redding to R.E.M., the B-52s and the Indigo Girls, Georgians have profoundly impacted American music. The Peach State isn’t just about heritage, though; contemporary artists including Sugarland, Zac Brown Band, Outkast and Lecrae are among the many who continue to achieve chart-topping commercial success. How has one state birthed so many musical greats? “Georgians have always been trendsetting, combining a deep respect for roots and tradition with a bold sense of vision and innovation. There are also nurturing musical communities that allow musicians to find their creative voices,” explains Love. In addition to its diverse talent base, Georgia has along established infrastructure with over 300 recording studios and production businesses spread throughout the state and a variety of professional and support services. The growing intersection between music and other creative industries including film, television and digital has creating growing opportunities for entrepreneurs, from composers for video games to app developers. In addition, Georgia’s strong support of live music extends from the classical music of the GRAMMY-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra to a variety of music festivals statewide to concerts at venues including
Philips Arena, recently named by Pollstar magazine one of the top five concert venues nationwide in 2013 based on ticket sales. With over 80 music festivals of all sizes across the state each year, thousands of fans enjoy a variety of signature events. In early April, the Savannah Music Festival celebrated its 25th Anniversary with 17 days of music and sellout shows. “There is great enthusiasm among audiences in Georgia for local music and live music,” says Love. In 2011, a study commissioned by the Georgia Music Partners, “Economic and Fiscal Impact Analysis of the Music Industry in Georgia”, and prepared by B. William Riall, Ph.D. found, “The music industry in Georgia is estimated to support almost $3.8 billion in economic output, compensating 19,955 employees with over $888 million in wages, salaries, and benefits.” As economic engines, music and film, along with other creative industries including gaming and digital media, are positioned for continued growth. “The future of entertainment in Georgia is unstoppable,” shares Love. Together, Thomas and Love provide a complete picture of the film and music industry in Georgia. Their expertise and experience in their respective areas directly impact the development of the entertainment industry here in Georgia. For more information visit: www.georgia.org/industries/entertainment/
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BUSINESS PROFILE
Providing Premier Landscapes in South Atlanta
by Careshia Moore
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s summer approaches and we spend even more time outside enjoying the beautiful weather, it is always nice to enjoy the backdrop of a well manicured landscape. Not many people have the time or the know-how to achieve the curb appeal that makes us gaze in awe at businesses or residences that take pride in presenting aesthetically pleasing landscapes. South Atlanta based Classic Landscapes specializes in creating premiere outdoor environments and full service landscape maintenance. Since 2005, Classic Landscapes has provided the best value for its clients of any team in the southern crescent. John Newman, Landscapes, President and Lead Designer believes that Classic Landscape’s experience, training background and culture differentiate his company from other landscape companies. “What we do better than anyone in south Atlanta is give best value through maximizing operational efficiencies, implementation of industry best practices and partnering with our clients to provide creative solutions” shares Newman. Classic’s secret to its success can be found in its team culture and landscaping method. Classic’s team is comprised of ten team members who help in serving Classic’s clients. The crews are led by former military, entrepreneurs and leaders who have earned degrees in environmental horticulture and other related fields of study. Newman has created a family atmosphere that thrives on positive attitudes. Team members are experienced and have significant training backgrounds. The team approach that permeates Classic’s culture is evident in the quality of their service. Joshua Cash, installation team leader who has worked with Classic for over two years enjoys the team atmosphere and believes it is a large part of what makes Classic successful. “We have done giant builds that people may say we cannot handle. Probably the most memorable is a residence where we worked eight months to completely remodel the outside of a home built in 1911. We worked through every weather condition one can think of- but with perseverance and teamwork we got it done,” recalls Cash. Classic’s cohesive team does not only consist of Classic employees. “We are a part of the client’s team,” says Newman. It is the client who drives the vision for the end product. Classic begins creating its magic by receiving input from the client regarding budget and their desired outcome. “Some clients give pictures they have been cutting out of magazines. This gives us a great idea of what they want. The client drives the bus,” explains Newman. Following the initial client meeting, Newman uses a scientific method to create a rough draft with enough details to provide a basic preliminary budget range of the project if the client doesn’t provide one up front. Classic’s method accurately projects the number of man hours it will take to complete every aspect of the project; down to the amount of time it takes to install each plant. This takes the guess work out of the equation. Classic is committed to efficiency in order to provide the best value to its clients. The company invests in methods, technology and equipment that multiplies the team’s time. “We are efficient on the jobsite. We don’t provide estimates, we are able to provide our clients with proposals
WHAT WE DO BETTER THAN ANYONE IN SOUTH ATLANTA IS GIVE BEST VALUE THROUGH MAXIMIZING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCIES, IMPLEMENTATION OF INDUSTRY BEST PRACTICES AND PARTNERING WITH OUR CLIENTS TO PROVIDE CREATIVE SOLUTIONS. because we are not guessing,” says Newman. Newman is inspired by The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World’s Greatest Manufacturer, a book written by Jeffrey Liker that describes ways to become more efficient. Newman has incorporated the practices outlined in the book into his plan to provide world-class service to Classic’s clients. “We have implemented many tiny ways to be more efficient. For example, we now keep tools on the trucks instead of taking them off every evening and re-loading them in the morning.” As Classic continues to provide its clients with spectacular service and results, it will also focus on expanding its commercial client base. Classic is more than qualified to serve the commercial market as it has received certifications from the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, the Georgia Green Industry Association, and the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Its quality of work has been recognized with awards and accolades from the Georgia Green Industry Association, the Urban Agriculture Council, and the Professional Land Care Network for its design/build and maintenance work. Classic will also continue to serve the south Atlanta community with projects such as building raised beds for the Community Gardens of Henry County in commemoration of Earth Day, Chamber of Commerce Board service and supporting local youth sports teams such as FCA Baseball. The fact is that Classic Landscapes creates and maintains beautiful projects for its clients, provides innovative solutions to create value and has the vision to serve both residential and commercial clients to maximize their landscape investment. MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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FEATURE
Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church by Beverly Van Gorder photo by Picture This Studio
A
fter graduating from North Clayton High School in 1979, Tim Dowdy had a dream of playing college athletics. He says, “My dream eroded around me as God brought me to the place where He wanted me to be. One evening, I came home from working my job at McDonald’s to hear a message from Billy Graham on one of his televised crusades. During that message, I was called to ministry.” Fast forward ten years to 1989. Tim had achieved an undergraduate degree, a Master’s degree and was working toward his Doctorate of Ministry from seminary in New Orleans. And in November of that year, he accepted the senior pastor position at Koinonia Baptist Church in McDonough, Georgia. This church, established in 1986, began meeting at the South Metro Baptist Association Office before moving to a new building at Highway 42 and Jodeco Road just nine months before his arrival. Within the first several weeks, it became apparent to Pastor Tim that the name of the church was hindering its growth. Koinonia, a transliteration of the Greek Word, “koivwvia” literally means, “communion, fellowship, sharing in common” and identifies the idealized state of unity and fellowship within the Christian church or Body of Christ. While a great premise on which to build a church, the name was not resonating with the general population. Interestingly enough, many people thought this group was associated with the local Kiwanis Club and had no idea it was a church. So in order to dispel further confusion, the decision was made to change the name. Believing it would be helpful to create a name which would identify their location, “Eagle’s Landing” was proposed. In order to move forward with that suggestion, special permission was sought from Bert Williams in January 1990. Bert and his dad, J T Williams had developed the 94
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well-known Eagle’s Landing community not far from their meeting place. With the Williamses’ approval, Koinonia Baptist officially became Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church one month later. The move to its current location at 2400 Highway 42 N took place several years later as the congregation’s growth and its vision for ministry expansion to include a private Christian school for grades K-12 (now known as Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy) obviously required more land and physical space. Pastor Tim attributes continued growth to the consistently flexible approach with which they hold the Gospel out to the community. “We evaluate if a program or method is effective. We try to avoid having ‘sacred cows’ where something is maintained simply because that is how it has always been done or because change may be difficult. We focus on teaching the absolute truth of God’s Word in clear and creative ways to reach people with the hope found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” The mission statement reads, “Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church exists to glorify God by involving people in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.” Pastor Tim shares four words which are used to describe the avenues by which this mission is accomplished---Love, Live, Give and Go. “Our members are encouraged to love God and love people, to stay connected by living in community with others through regular and purposeful gathering for the spiritual growth of every individual. We want to teach proper management of God’s truth, as well as our time, talents, and treasures so that everyone develops the desire and ability to give and a readiness to go out from this place on mission to make disciples of those we encounter in our daily lives.” Nothing lends credibility to one’s words more than the reality of putting those words into action. And Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church
is employing the “Love, Live, Give and Go” philosophy as they are currently on mission bringing new life to Teamon Baptist Church in Griffin. Last Spring, Pastor Bill Stokes led the service one final time for this struggling church on Easter Sunday morning with a mere 32 members in attendance before closing the doors in order to undergo a massive renovation of their building and grounds initiated and funded by the generous folks at Eagle’s Landing First Baptist. During the physical renovation, 40 people from ELFBC answered Pastor Tim’s request to consider a two year commitment for service with the Griffin congregation and began teaching, leading and ministering to help God perform a spiritual renovation in that community. While continuing to meet weekly, Pastor Tim travels to Griffin each Sunday morning to preach the 9:30 service and then travels back in time to deliver the message at the 11:00 service in McDonough. Since completion of the renovation at 2567 Teamon Road this past August, the numbers gathering for worship have grown to 250. Pastor Tim says, “God used the willingness of folks from Eagle’s Landing to redeem the witness of a church that had been there since the 1800s. The growth we have witnessed reminds us to never shrink from combating the devil’s attempts to destroy something that can bring honor and glory to our Lord. A unique blessing has been the addition of their former pastor, Bill Stokes as a Bible teacher to our ELCA students in McDonough.” If you are seeking a church home where you can grow and share your talents with others in the Body of Christ, take the opportunity to visit Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church in McDonough or their new location in Griffin. You will be welcomed with open arms, surely blessed by the experience, and made ready to go on mission for God.
Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church holds Contemporary Worship Services on Sundays: at 9:30am at the Griffin Campus at 11:00am at the McDonough Campus
For more information contact Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church: 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough, GA 30253 Phone: (770) 957-1355 Website: www.eagleslanding.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/eagleslandingfirstbaptist
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pictured left to right: State Representative Ron Stephens and State Representative Butch Parrish
the
Movement Behind the Georgia Film Tax Credit
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PROFILE
Georgia State Representatives Butch Parrish and Ron Stephens are men on a mission. That mission is to make Georgia the premier place to produce - and post-produce - movies, television shows, and commercials in the entire country. The pathway to victory: film tax credits.
by Lynita Mitchell-Blackwell and Sonji Willingham
What is A Tax Credit? Wikipedia defines a tax credit as “a sum deducted from the total amount a taxpayer owes to the state. A tax credit may be granted for various types of taxes. It may be granted in recognition of taxes already paid, as a subsidy, or to encourage investment or other behaviors.” Tax credits can generally be used against insurance company premium tax, bank tax and income tax. Origins of the Georgia Film Tax Credit Those who are not familiar with the very generous provisions of the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act (also known as the Georgia Film Credit) may not know that, back in the 1970’s, Georgia was a strong draw for production companies seeking venues outside of California. The film “Deliverance” starring Burt Reynolds was shot in 1972, and then-public relations director of the Georgia Department of Industry and Trade Ed Spivia worked closely with Georgia law makers to create incentives that would revolutionize the film industry in Georgia: the Georgia Film Tax Credit. Once other states in the Union - and countries around the world - saw the incredible boom that film brought to Georgia, they began incorporating tax credits also. This led to a dramatic decline in the number of films that were being shot in the state. To put it in perspective, up to 20 movies a year were shot in the Peach State in the 1970’s. By 2004, only one was produced in Georgia Tyler Perry’s “Diary of A Mad Black Woman”. Outline of the Credit The Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act that was signed by thenGovernor Perdue allowed for several perks for production companies that made Georgia their work-home: • 9% tax credit on productions between $500,000 and $30 million • 3% tax credit on income paid to Georgia residents • 3% tax credit on money spent in poor or rural counties • 2% tax credit for television projects in excess of $20 million
The above incentives were significantly expanded so that the total tax credit was increased to 20% for qualified production companies that spent at least $500,000 a year, and an additional 10% credit if the company imbedded the “special peach logo” in its film, show, video or game according to a March 29, 2012 AJC.com blog. Competition Georgia’s primary objective in maintaining the tax incentive is to maintain the competitive advantage in the film and production industry, enticing production companies to make the great state of Georgia home. To date, it is widely believed that Georgia has one of the most generous incentive packages offered. Currently, there are no limits on how much a production company can accrue in credits. Georgia’s most serious competitors - Louisiana and North Carolina - both have caps on the amount that a production company may claim. When asked about this variance from the norm, State Rep. Ron Stephens, who chairs the Economic Development & Tourism Committee, said, “I do not want to cap prosperity.” Rep. Parrish added that, “Capping the credit would be similar to capping the amount of commission a salesperson could earn.” Both agreed that such a cap would deter business - and business is good: 11 production companies have, or are in the process of, establishing permanent residence or expanding in Georgia. Rep. Stephens said that Tyler Perry, who opened his studios in 2008, was strongly influenced to establish his production company in Georgia due to the credits. Challenges Georgia tax credits also have a special feature not seen in other states - they are sellable. There is a very lucrative market for brokers to sell unused credits to large companies that are seeking to reduce their tax liability. (The current rate is $0.85 on the dollar.) Critics of this practice point to the inability to determine who qualified for and took the credit since the state’s Open Records law prevents the Department of Revenue from disclosing this information. There are other criticisms of the credits that include an inability to directly measure
the amount of money generated from the tax credits; and also the inability for smaller, Georgia-resident-owned production companies to take the credit. When presented with these points, Reps. Stephens and Parrish were honest in their responses. Although they were not able to directly quantify the revenues attributed to the tax credit savings, Rep. Stephens pointed out that the industry has blossomed to $3.3 billion as of fiscal year ending June 2013. This revenue is a combination of jobs and services directly and indirectly related to production, such as location rental, catering and lodging services, staff members who relocated and established communities in the city, and tourism dollars from visitors seeking tours of the film sites. Rep. Parrish stated that the Legislature realized that resident owned and/or smaller companies (those with revenues less than $500,000) do not have access to the credit, and the Speaker appointed a special committee at the end of the 2014 session to prepare recommendations to address this inequity. Interestingly, there is a serious movement in the works in North Carolina to discontinue tax credits entirely. When asked about this, Rep. Stephens said that he has received a few calls regarding this development, and replied jokingly that he would be happy to help North Carolina down that road any way he could. Such a move would potentially eliminate North Carolina as a serious contender for top-production state, leaving Louisiana as Georgia’s chief rival. This rivalry is as serious as that of any college football team - think Auburn and University of Alabama. Both Reps. Parrish and Stephens are still bothered that “Ray” - the biography of legendary blues singer Ray Charles who wrote “Georgia” and was born and raised in the state - was shot in Louisiana, and are determined that such a travesty will not be repeated. Both Reps. Parrish and Stephens foreseen the “wildfire” growth of the production industry in Georgia continuing, citing Georgia’s reputation as “pro business” in general and “get it done” specific to hurdles in the production process. With $3.3 billion on the line, it is a safe bet that the state will continue to protect the credit act, regardless of its critics.
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EVE HUTC T S SON HI
MAYO R
PROFILE
Hampton’s New Mayor Has A Vision of Progress: By Shana Thornton
“Hampton is a charming and unique city located comfortably south of Atlanta,” proclaims newly elected Mayor of Hampton, Steve Hutchison. Nearly 7, 000 residents call the City of Hampton home. Elected this past November, Mayor Hutchison describes city residents as a balanced group of working professionals, retirees, and children from various backgrounds. Mayor Hutchison believes that Hampton residents are hard-working people with a passion for their community. He believes that supporting the local schools is key. The growing city is home to the Hampton Elementary Charter School. The charter school has integrated science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in its core curriculum for students. Mayor Hutchison is a strong advocate for citizens getting involved in the local schools. He personally believes that the children need the support of community members. “Hampton has grown significantly over the last few years and so has the population of school-aged individuals,” says the Mayor. To meet the growing demand, a newly built Hampton High School is already scheduled to open this upcoming Fall. “I have grandchildren in the schools here in Hampton. Supporting the local schools is a very high priority for me personally and professionally.” He wants the students to know he cares. He considers himself entrenched in the local culture. As a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he views his previous military training as relevant to leading Hampton. “I have an open door policy for everyone,” he says. He considers teamwork as a vital component to progress and success. He definitely wants residents to share ideas with him. “We are all in this together.” Previously, Mayor Hutchison served on Hampton’s City Council for 5 years.
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The Mayor is passionate about supporting the business community in Hampton. He has a very clear vision for the city. He believes continued progress is needed to push Hampton to the next level. “The Old City Shop Area needs revamping,” says Hutchison. “We certainly have areas that need our focus.” Hutchison wants more sidewalks added throughout some of the residential areas so pedestrians can safely travel. He also would like to see some abandoned residential areas cleaned up and maintained for the overall safety of the city. He wants to see local businesses grow with the support of local government and community members. Hutchison is planning for a new senior center to be completed in the near future for the aging population of Hampton. The city recently held its 6th Annual Pollen Festival which attracted thousands of attendees from the local and surrounding areas. Even more family-oriented events are planned for 2014. Hutchison says that Hampton is a friendly and growing city. Established in 1873, Hampton is home to the renowned Atlanta Motor Speedway. The SafeWise Report recently recognized the city as being one of the “50 Safest Cities In Georgia”. Hampton ranked in the top tier with the honor of claiming number 12 on the esteemed list. The newly elected mayor is quite busy. He is a dedicated family man who continues to work another job while serving as Mayor of Hampton. He is currently employed as a detention officer for the Henry County Sheriff’s Department. The role of mayor may very well be part-time officially but Hutchison feels he should dedicate a great effort to the citizens of Hampton daily. He says he values the position and considers it a true honor to serve in the leadership role. Mayor Steve Hutchison is proud to say that “Hampton is the best kept secret in all of Henry County.”
MAYOR STEVE HUTCHISON IS PROUD TO SAY THAT “HAMPTON IS THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN ALL OF HENRY COUNTY.”
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an artist’s FEATURE
images by
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Painting America’s Story. By Careshia Moore
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I had a story I wanted to tell. I wanted to share what was different about our country,”
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Steve Penley, resident of Georgia was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1964 and raised in Athens and Macon, Georgia. A lifelong artist, Penley attended the University of Georgia and the School of Visual Arts in New York. A product of the South, Penley’s art is influenced by its traditions, historical figures and diverse locations. Penley’s focus on historical icons began during a time when he found himself obsessed with learning about World War II and Winston Churchhill. “At that time I began concentrating on American icons because I had a story I wanted to tell. I wanted to share what was different about our country,” shares Penley. Having traveled all over the world, Penley could have made his home in any location; however, he has decided to make Carrollton, Georgia his permanent residence. “I have always considered myself a Georgian since I was raised here. What is different here is the network and friends I have. Georgia connects me with thousands of friends. Georgia people are the best place in the world,” says Penley. Penley appreciates the southern social order and believes it is also great for his business as a visual artist. Penley credits Georgia’s value system with shaping him as an artist. He uses his canvas and expressionistic brush strokes to paint the story of America. His inspiration is deeply rooted in the patriotic spirit of Georgia. “Most of my work is Americana. Georgia is a very patriotic state and its people tend to love America and have a sentimental affection for many of the same things I do,” explains Penley. In addition to the story and people of Georgia, Georgia’s landscapes and seascapes. “Sea Island is my favorite place to visit. I have great memories of being with my friends, seeing the marshes, and watching the Florida-Georgia game. “ Penley also recognizes Georgia’s influence on many of the artists. Admittedly, he does not have a lot of artist friends, but he has taken notice of some well-known talented artists in Georgia who have garnered his respect. Artists with extraordinary portfolios like Todd Murphy and Ross Rossin have captured Penley’s attention. He recognizes the exceptional talent of homegrown and artistic talents who have come to make Georgia its home. “While I was a student at UGA everyone would say you have to study art in NY. I took a year off and went to the School of Visual Arts in New York. I got up there and I noticed that the talent was not nearly as good as that at UGA. Geographically, Georgia is undersold for its talent,” shares Penley. Certainly, Penley is doing his part to put the world on
notice about the terrific artistic talent that calls Georgia home. In addition to seeing his work all over Georgia, he can be seen on the small screen on shows like Fox and Friends where he works during the show to create a painting based on the topic of the show. At the end of the show he reveals his work to the hosts and viewers. “I like for my art work to be seen by large numbers of people and to get my message out to as large of an audience as possible,” explains Penley. He is also now working on animating his art. Having published several artist’s books on a variety of topics, Penley is currently working on a new book, In the Shadow of the Revolution, where he will use his art to share how freedom, democracy, our standard of living and quality of life can be traced back to the American Revolution. Also, in August, Penley’s 40-feet by 40-feet depiction of the history of college football created for the NCAA Hall of Fame will be revealed in Centennial Park on Marietta Street in Downtown Atlanta. Penley is looking forward to the many projects he has on the horizon and is grateful for the influence Georgia has had on his career. He also takes notice of how art is evolving and is pleased with the direction it is taking. “I remember one criticism of the art in Georgia is that it all started looking a lot alike- dark and depressing. I think a lot of the art I’ve seen has become brighter and fresher. He mentions a local artist Radcliffe Bailey who is one of the trendsetters in providing a different type of art in Georgia. As an experienced artist who has had the opportunity to observe artists develop Penley offers advice to up and coming artists. “First of all find out the things you can do well and fast. That’s the only combination for making a living as an artist. Don’t be too proud to paint things that aren’t your ultimate goal. I started painting portraits but that is how I built my customer base. Decide what you want out of it. If you are in it to make a living, be business like about it,” Penley shares. As a father to three young children, ages 8, 10 and 11, who are artists in their own right Penley believes they too could have a future in art. He proudly states, “They are much better than I was at their age”. As he continues to nurture his children’s artistic ability, one thing is for sure he will continue to share the stories of America in color for everyone to enjoy. MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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PRO FITNESS
of Georgia
by Brittany Wright
P
ro Fitness of Georgia, located inside Innovations Fitness Center in McDonough, has an atmosphere like no other. Doug Clark, owner of Pro Fitness of Georgia, and Theresa McKee, Office Administrator/ Social Media Director, knows each of their clients by name and are committed to helping them improve their quality of life through exercise and nutrition. Doug is no stranger to health, he is a licensed paramedic for the state of Georgia, ISSA-Certified, and is a Specialist in Exercise Therapy. At Pro Fitness of Georgia, you can be assured that you will be treated like family. “We have many long-term clients and we take their success very personal,” says Doug. Pro Fitness of Georgia makes it a top priority to focus on each client’s individual needs. Clients range from students looking to improve strength and agility for school sports, to clients who may need therapy for chronic conditions. Pro Fitness of Georgia specializes
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in complete body composition, therapeutic exercise, 1 on 1 training, post physical therapy rehabilitation, stress management, trigger point massage and more. When it comes to weight loss, Pro Fitness of Georgia offers diet and nutritional counseling with a tailored plan to ensure success for each client. Individuals searching for a personalized touch regarding health can visit Pro Fitness of Georgia for a free consultation to discuss goals. From the moment one enters the facility it is obvious that Doug and his team have a heart for their clients, especially those with health concerns and disabilities. Pro Fitness of Georgia provides a facility with the most up to date, state of the art equipment available as well as free weights and dumbbells. Want to know more? Are you ready to take a step towards improving your health? Schedule an appointment today and like Pro Fitness of Georgia on Facebook. It’s time to feel better.
D
ejuan Miller, CEO of Heartbeat Matchmaker loves the quote by Michael Nolan “Many things will catch your eye, but few will catch your heart…Pursue those”. This is Miller’s mantra. Miller and her team are supporting singles in finding their soul mate. Heartbeat focuses on successful, career minded individuals that are used to achieving their professional goals but lacked in their personal life, or want help to pursue that special someone for a committed loving relationship. Miller’s contagious energy and enthusiasm fuels the Heartbeat team. “We are a team that works great together, each one adding a special talent. We pride ourselves on our integrity, reputation, and personal attention we give our clients, not to mention we all love what we do!” shares Miller. Miller’s friendly, outgoing personality and genuine smile is what makes people gravitate towards her. Her intuitiveness, interpersonal skills and her LOVE for helping people find Love and happiness is what makes Heartbeat Matchmaker successful. Miller’s intuition and experience as a relationship expert have led her to matching more than one hundred happily married couples and hundreds of successful relationships. In all of the successful matches that Miller creates, she understands that Heartbeat is just the beginning of these relationships. “Trust, Honesty, and Communication are the basics for any relationship to be successful” says Dejuan Although Heartbeat provides a premium service, not everyone is a fit for Heartbeat’s unique matchmaking approach. Miller is very selective with her clientele. All prospective clients undergo an in depth interviewing process, including background checks, to ensure the safety of all persons involved. Only those men and women with integrity and desire in finding a lifelong partner are accepted within Heartbeat Matchmaker clientele. Heartbeat’s clients know the selection process that Miller puts them through, therefore when clients are introduced to potential matches they are confident that person has also been thoroughly vetted and realize they will be meeting the quality of person they could fall in love with.
Why You Need Heartbeat Matchmaker Miller understands the hectic, fast-paced lifestyle of many, making it challenging for people to find time to date. There are many people that are successful in their professional life, yet meeting their soul mate has eluded them. Although they have things that bring them happiness, they still want to share their life with someone they love. “I would say over seventyfive percent of our clients get emotional during the interview; all because they feel they have missed out on the most important part of life - loving someone and having that love returned” shares Miller. Known for her honesty, telling it like it is with compassion, Dejuan has gained the respect and trust of her clients. “We at Heartbeat Matchmaker are extremely confidential, detailed and personable making the process less intimidating and more enjoyable for our clients. We spend extensive amounts of time getting to know their passions, desires and criteria for a soul mate; we are like their invisible hand holder when needed. Clients are completely at ease entrusting Heartbeat with the most important part of themselves - their heart” shares Miller. Miller’s unique approach to Matchmaking has earned her respect among her peers. She has been sought out to collaborate with other matchmakers across the country, gaining her clients throughout the United Sates. Finding the right partner for a serious relationship requires time, effort, and money. Heartbeat’s goal is to work diligently to save you on all three and put you on the fast track to Happy Ever After. Heartbeat Matchmaker is the premier and ideal choice to assist in the quest for love. Modern day dating…. In the past, nations, religions, and cultures have relied on others for wisdom and judgment in making introductions in hopes to create life-long relationships. Now with Social Media, the world of dating is constantly changing; new rules apply, old traditions change, expectations fluctuate. Heartbeat has a unique interpretation of the age-old tradition of matchmaking, their style of matchmaking is tailored to each and
every client, constructing a successful process which enhances the experience of finding love. Miller has been seen on HLN Good Morning with Robin Meade, speaking about online dating do’s & don’ts, how it can sometimes feel impersonal, or create a certain element of danger by providing opportunity for deception. “I always point out, that anyone can be anyone behind a computer screen and if you don’t do your due diligence you could end up with a broken heart among other things” says Miller. With Miller’s background in marketing, public relations, and private investigation, safety is important, which prompted her to include background checks. There is more to Heartbeat Matchmaker “We do more than just matchmaking, we are experts in building relationships. We offer clients tools to better themselves, from Relationship Coaching, Dating Fundamentals, to self-improvement classes including popular “How to Date” classes,” explains Miller. All the tools are designed to boost self-confidence in all aspects in the search for love. In addition to running her successful business, Miller feels deeply about giving back to the community and is very involved in volunteering with various organizations. Heartbeat hosts approximately four fund raising events a year for various charities. In particular, she is very passionate about supporting homeless families like those served at Nicholas House. Service is also a part of her business model, as she requires her clients to sign up for at least one volunteer event to help those less fortunate. “Happiness is a state of mind, but true joy comes when you realize you have found your soul mate,” says Miller. When asked why she is passionate about matchmaking, “It’s very rewarding when you have brought 2 people together for their Happy ever Aater.” replies Miller In June, Heartbeat will celebrate its five year anniversary with a fabulous soiree. For more information or to schedule an interview Call: 404.536.104? Visit www.Heartbeat-Matchmaker.com MAY / JUNE 2014 • SOUTHERNJOURNALMAGAZINE.COM
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Metro Atlanta Summer Art Events Buckhead Spring Arts & Crafts Festival Event Dates: 5/10/2014 – 5/11/2014
Atlanta Jazz Festival Event Date: 5/23/2014 – 5/25/2014
The fifth annual “Buckhead Spring Arts and Crafts Festival” features 175 artists and artisans, live acoustic music, a children’s area, delicious local foods and beverages, plus a lot of surprises! Children and pets are welcome, and the kids will enjoy the fun children’s area filled with inflatables, sand art and other activities. More than 75% of the artist participants are from Georgia.
Atlanta Jazz Festival is an annual celebration of music, art and culture, highlighting the heritage of jazz music. Atlanta Jazz Festival includes a series of events beginning in March of each year and culminating each Memorial Day weekend in the largest free jazz festival in the country. Guitarist Bill Frisell, Atlanta resident Freddy Cole, and Atlanta-based trumpeter Russell Gunn and his Krunk Jazz Orchestra will be among the main stage acts during the 37th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival
Location: Chastain Park www.buckheadartsfestival.com/
Location: Piedmont Park
The 37th Annual Geranium Festival Event Date: 5/17/2014 The Geranium Festival is an Arts and Craft Festival featuring exhibitors and vendors from across the Southeast! There is something for everyone at the Geranium Festival! Location: Downtown McDonough, Georgia www.geraniumfestival.com/
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www.atlantafestivals.com/
Mo Modern Atlanta Design is Human Event Dates: 6/1/2013 - 6/9/2013 This citywide festival celebrates the beauty and brilliance in mankind’s modern creations.This June, join Design Is Human for an in-depth look at the interior design, architecture and fashions of the city, as well as its visual and communication arts. Come enjoy exhibits, lectures and activities which showcase the allure of Atlanta! Location: MA Home Tour www.ma-designishuman.com/
Virginia Highland SummerFest Event Dates: 6/7/2014 - 6/8/2014 Celebrate the beginning of summer with dancing, music, art and of course, delicious food. While exploring the historic avenue, peek into the eclectic shops and local-loved dining scene which give the neighborhood its quirky charm. Revered as one of the best artists’ markets in the Southeast, the Virginia-Highland Summerfest features works by local artists and activities for the entire family. Location: 855 Virginia Ave N.E., Atlanta, GA 30306
Shakespeare in the Park: As You Like It Event Dates: 6/4/2014 – 6/8/2014 Georgia Shakespeare returns to Piedmont Park with “As You Like It.” This pastoral comedy features one of Shakespeare’s most vibrant heroines, Rosalind, who falls suddenly and madly in love with the dashing Orlando. When she is banished from the court by her devious uncle, Duke Frederick, Rosalind disguises herself as a boy named Ganymede and flees with her cousin Celia and the jester Touchstone to the magical Forest of Arden, where the lives of all who enter are transformed. After Orlando also arrives there, Arden abounds with life, beauty, and yes, a whole lotta love.
www.vahi.org/summerfest/
A Year With Frog and Toad Event Dates: 6/26/2014- 6/29/2014 This whimsical show follows two great friends -- the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad -- through four, fun-filled seasons. Location: Henry County Performing Arts Center www.henryplayers.com/
Location: Piedmont Park www.gashakespeare.org
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UNITED WAY DID YOU KNOW?
For more than 100 years, United Way has been committed to making our 13-county region a better place to live and work. Last year, because of your generosity, United Way helped residents with rent, utilities and feeding their families.
Serving Butts, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale Counties
United Way of Greater Atlanta earned four stars - the highest rating - from charitynavigator.com.
Changing the Picture of Education in America
3rd Annual
Communities In Schools
PARENT EXPO In partnership with:
Henry County Schools
Henry County
Commissioner Bruce Holmes Youth Foundation
July 26, 2014
ENGAGE
...in your child’s education
9am - 2pm
Booths for local:
Fun activities:
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› ICE CREAM › FACE PAINTING › INFLATABLES
Heritage Park 101 Lake Dow Road McDonough, GA
SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY For more Info call: 678.432.4499 or email us at: info@cis-henry.org facebook.com/cishenry Communities In Schools is the United States’ largest dropout prevention organization. The mission of Communities In Schools is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
678.432.4499 | 70 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253 | www.cis-henry.org
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Coming Next Issue... Founded By Firemen
20 years i n b u si ne ss
&
Opening
their 800
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s to r e
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