Park living March 17' by SkollarPublishing

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PARK

MARCH 2017

An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chastain & Tuxedo Parks

In This Issue Family Feature

CURE: Fighting the Good Fight Souper Jenny Recipe Corner Real Versus Cyber Space Shopping AND MORE!

THE Photograph By Tania Schade

BODNERS A Perfect Fit

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Welcome to the March 2017 Issue of Park Living.

I can not believe we are another month closer to spring. I look forward to all of the awesome Atlanta area festivals that show Atlanta’s beauty as she blooms back to life with the coming of the warmer months. Check out each month’s calendar of events to plan ahead, and remember, if you have an event to share, please reach out to Barbara at btapp@bestversionmedia.com. Please help me welcome Barbara Tapp as our new content coordinator. Barbara Tapp is an award-winning writer and editor who is owner of her own Atlanta-based business, EditorExpert .com. Her company provides writing and editing services to a wide range of companies and publications. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team. Thanks to two Park Living readers who reached out to me to share a cool sport and a helpful tech aid. I have come away with a new skill, curling (I only busted once!), and a new productivity app to keep me on task. I will be sharing these residents’ stories in the April edition, so stay tuned! My favorite thing about publishing Park Living is meeting you, my readers, and learning more about who makes up our great community. I look forward to hearing from more of you next month. I placed all of the residents who answered last month’s trivia question into the random name picker, as well as those who reached out to me, and our winner this month is Bob Hogan. Congratulations, Bob! You and 7 or more of your friends will be hearing from Randy at Electronic Home to set up your movie night. Feel free to bring snacks and beverages of your choice, but please do not bring red wine or anything that may stain. HAVE FUN! I urge everyone to find a way to give back to your community. I had the pleasure of chatting with Mark Myers, the director of communications at CURE. The amazing things they are doing to raise awareness of children’s cancer took my breath away. They are always in need of volunteers and donations, so please consider reaching out for this powerful cause. In May, I will be featuring Chastain Horse Park’s therapeutic riding program. If you ride at Chastain, I would love some pictures to share with everyone. They do an amazing job for all horse lovers and can always use volunteers to help out. Until next month, stay happy, healthy and give back to our community as much as you can. Sincerely, Taylor Higdon, Publisher

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

FEEDBACK / IDEAS / SUBMISSIONS Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 15th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: thigdon@bestversionmedia.com.

HEATING AIR & PLUMBING

DENTISTRY

R.S. Andrews Dari Payrow (678) 389-7459 dpayrow@rsandrews.com

Dazzling Smiles Michaela McKenzie, DDS, AIAOMT (770) 993-9217 dazzleme2pls@gmail.com

PICTURE FRAMING

FENCING

SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Tuxedo Frame Gallery Siraj Rayani 404-261-5570 tuxedoframegallery@gmail.com

Invisible Fence by Peachtree Tim Clark 404-620-6654 Peachtree@invisiblefence.com

Content is due by the 15th of the month preceding the month of publication.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2017 Best Version Media. All rights reserved. Park Living | March 2017

GARDENS, GIFTS, HOME DECOR

RUG CLEANING & RESTORATION

Boxwoods Dan Belman (404) 233-3400 sales@boxwoods.com

S&S Rug Cleaners, Inc. Steve Arroll and Stoney Green (404) 355-2126 therugcleaners@bellsouth.net

SILVER SHOP

PEST CONTROL

Beverly Bremer Silver Shop Mimi Woodruff (404) 261-4009 sterlingsilver@beverlybremer.com

Mosquito Authority Mickey Mittong 404-312-4890 info@bugsbite.com

CHINA & JEWELRY

LANDSCAPING

Charles Willis Edyth Shadburn and Sandy M. Jones (404) 233-9487 Edyth@charleswillis.com sandy@sandymjones.com

Going Green Horticultural Betsey Norton 678-446-1976 info@goinggreenhorticultural.com

FITNESS

Pinnacle Fitness Jamie Bodner (404) 228-3705 jamie@pinnaclefitnessgym.com

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at thigdon@bestversionmedia.com or 404-918-9512.

Family Feature

THE BODNER FAMILY A Perfect Fit

never expected to be in the fitness business,” says Jamie Bodner. “When I walked into my first gym, I had this dream that I would love to own one of these one day. It was a similar feeling boys have the first time they walk into a pro baseball game and see the baseball diamond. Like most kids, I grew up with the expectation of graduating from college, getting a typical business job, and working the next 35 to 40 years.” Yet, as fate would have it, he and his wife Laura are now owners of a popular Buckhead gym, Pinnacle Fitness. Born and raised on Long Island, Jamie attended Oneonta State College in upstate

By Barbara S. Tapp

Photos By Tania Schade

studied and earned certification as a fitness trainer with the International Sports Science Association (ISSA). Putting distance between him and New York, he headed to Miami, where he began his career at Bally’s as a trainer, then was promoted to assistant manager. Results Fitness Studio then recruited him as head trainer. The New York transplant met Laura in 2001 while both were living in Miami. Atlanta native Laura was working as a bartender after graduating from Georgia State University. “We didn’t realize it, but we lived two hotels away from each other on the beach,” Jamie recalls.

New York and graduated with a degree in communication. He was working for Poland Spring Water at the World Trade Center and happened to be on vacation on September 11, 2001. “After 9/11, I knew I did not want to work the rest of my life and not love it every day,” Jamie explains. “I never felt 100-percent fulfilled working in the corporate world.” Assessing what his next steps would be, Jamie thought back on the thing that made him so happy and that was being inside the gym. “I always loved exercising and how it changed my life, even at the young age of 14,” he says. Working with the renowned Dr. Jack Barnathan, owner and founder of NYStrength, Jamie

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The Bodner Family

“People come to me to help them get healthier and live better lives. It’s an amazing feeling when you help someone get stronger and find a new way of living that provides them a better quality of life, more strength and find more energy.”

“We would randomly cross paths while out running on the beach.” The two moved to Atlanta in 2005 and married the next year at Callanwolde after Laura completed her Masters in professional counseling. “The funny thing is that my wife wanted to move to New York and I wanted to move to Atlanta,” Jamie says. “But it was hard for her to disagree since her family and friends were here.” Jamie worked to achieve his lifelong dream of owning his own fitness studio, Pinnacle Fitness, which he opened in 2008 after he found the perfect Buckhead location. He continued to earn additional certifications, including the Titleist TPI golf fitness instructor program, nutrition in sports performance, older adult and special population, including orthopedic

anything outside,” Jamie says. “I like fixing things and using my hands. I’m a NY Giants and Yankees fan first, then a Falcons fan!” The Bodners take trips to the beach during the summer and going to Kennesaw and Stone Mountain. Other activities include riding bikes and running and walking the dogs. “I find the best quality time is just being together with the kids and my wife without any distractions or technology.” Jamie and Laura truly love their profession. Though owning your own business is hard work, you don’t mind when it’s something you are passionate about. “I get to help people every day, teaching them things that I love,” says Jamie. “People come to me to help them get healthier and live better lives. It’s an amazing feeling when you help someone get stronger and find a new way of living that provides them a better quality of life, more strength and find more energy.”

issues and arthritis. As a licensed professional counselor, Laura is also a certified fitness trainer and wellness coach, working with Jamie and the team of nine at Pinnacle Fitness. She also maintains her private practice specializing in eating disorders, addiction and trauma. “I have a kickboxing and dance background and have always made exercise a top priority in my life,” she says. The athletic couple is also raising son David, age 5, and daughter Alexandria, almost 3. The family has two dogs—Ella, 7, and Percy, 8. They adopted these mixed American bulldog/terrier breeds from the Humane Society in Athens. “I enjoy spending time with my family, doing

Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at thigdon@bestversionmedia.com

Mold Remediation & Water Intrusion Services ~ certified Residential Mold Inspections ~ comprehensive structural repairs ~ handyman maintenance services ~ mold remediation, reconstruction and testing ~ water removal and moisture abatement services

678-671-6648 Park Living | March 2017

MARCH

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Every Saturday & Sunday 11am–2pm Downtown Decatur Food Tours Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tours $65 for adults $45 for children Wednesday, March 1, 9am–2pm Dyslexia Day at the Capitol Decoding Dyslexia Georgia invites you to join us for this event, which supports the mission to raise dyslexia awareness, empower families to support their children, and inform policymakers on best practices to identify, remediate and support students with dyslexia. All are welcome. For more info, go to decodingdyslexiaga.com or call 404-447-1460. Saturday, March 4, 10am–6pm KidFitStrong Fitness Challenge You and your kids age 3 and up can take the KidFitStrong Fitness Challenge, the nation’s largest mobile fitness event, which includes 10 fitness stations in Piedmont Park. Also featured are rides, food and other activities. FREE (but nearby rides are not free). Piedmont Park, 1342 Worchester Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 For more info, go to eventbrite.com or email info@kidfitstrong.com. Sunday, March 5, 1pm Atlanta Hawks vs. Indiana Pacers Home game NBA match-up. Tickets start at $25. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta, GA 30303. Call 404-878-3000 or go to ticketmaster.com. March 6, 7:30pm. Atlanta Hawks vs. Golden State Warriors. Saturday, March 11, 11am–4pm 2017 St. Patrick’s Day Atlanta Streetcar Bar Crawl This 3rd annual event features hopping on and off Atlanta’s streetcar to visit venues in the historic Edgewood Avenue, Centennial Park, Fairlie Poplar and Peachtree Corridor districts in one fun-filled afternoon. Tickets (ages 21+): General admission $20; VIP $25. For more info, email atlstreetcarbarcrawl@gmail.com. Other St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawls March 10 – Green Mile Block Party March 11 – Highlands Kegs & Eggs, Irish Stroll March 17,18 – Luckyfest at Park Tavern

2017

Midtown that go south on Peachtree St. from 15th St. NE to 5th St. NE. For more info, go to atlantastpats.com. March 11 & 12, 2pm Harlem Globetrotters at Philips Arena The master ballplayers on their 2017 World Tour. Tickets start at $22. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta, GA 30303. Go to philipsarena.com. March 11, 8pm Norah Jones The singer and her singular voice return to the Fox Theatre for an evening of musical performances. Tickets start at $52.50. Fox Theatre, 600 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308. Go to foxtheatre.org or call 404-881-2100; ticket line 855-285-8499. March 15–25 Atlanta Science Festival Features hands-on activities, performances, presentations, and facility tours at 30 venues to celebrate local science and technology. Check website for venues and events: atlantasciencefestival.org. March 17–19, times vary American Craft Council Atlanta Show Find 225 contemporary jewelry, clothing, furniture and home décor artists. Tickets start at $12. Cobb Galleria Center, Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339. For more info, go to craftcouncil.org. March 18–19, times vary 2017 Model Train Show Features model train layouts and hundreds of vendors. Tickets: $10 adults; kids 12 and under FREE. Scouts in uniform FREE. Cobb Galleria Center, Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339. Go to themodeltrainshow.com

March 11, noon–1:30pm Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade This 135th tradition has 2,000 dancers, musicians and Irish enthusiasts, plus giant balloons, floats and marching bands in 6

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March 19, 7am Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon Includes a 5K race and children’s run. Will travel through metro Atlanta’s most interesting and historic areas and landmarks—the King Historic Site, Carter Center, four college campuses and Piedmont Park. In conjunction with the Publix Georgia Marathon Health & Fitness Expo. Registration before March 15 (deadline): Marathon $130; half marathon $95. Omni Hotel at CNN Center, Exhibit Hall, South Tower, 100 CNN Center, Atlanta, GA 30303. Event address: Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. For more info, go to atlantatrackclub.org. March 22–26 Atlanta International Auto Show In its 35th year, includes 400 new cars, light trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles. Tickets: $12 adults; $6 children 6–12; children under 6 FREE. Cash only. Georgia World Congress Center, 235 Northside Dr., Atlanta, GA 30313. Go to goautoshow.com.

March 24–April 2 41st Atlanta Film Festival Be among the first to view a wide variety of films. Plaza Theatre and 7 Stages Theatre. Go to atlantafilmfestival.com for more info and schedules. March 24–April 2 International Cherry Blossom Festival It’s worth a drive to Macon to see a parade, arts and crafts, concerts, entertainment, air shows, hot air balloons, food trucks, fireworks and 300,000 flowering cherry trees. Tickets: $5; age 10 and under FREE. Central City Park, 115 Willie Smokie Glover Dr., Macon, GA 31201. Go to cherryblossom.com or call 478-330-7050. March 25, 11am–4pm Rescue Dog Olympics Your dog doesn’t have to be a rescue to compete in this Olympics, which includes dog-related vendors, music, food trucks and a beer garden. Brook Run Park, 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody, GA 30338. Go to rescuedogolympics.com or call 770-312-9722.

March 22–25 High Museum Atlanta Wine Auction Celebrating 25 years of wine, food and art. Tickets start at $150. Benefactor package opportunities available. High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. Go to atlanta-wineauction.org or call 404-733-4543.

March 25–26 3rd Annual Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival Arts and crafts vendors, family activities, live music, a 5K run and 1K walk. Blackburn Park, 3493 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta, GA 30319. Go to brookcherryfest.org.

March 24–26 Spring Atlanta Home Show Georgia’s largest home show featuring 350 home improvement companies. Tickets: $10; adults 65+ FREE; children under 12 FREE. Cobb Galleria Center, Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339. Go to atlantahomeshow.com or call 770-798-1997.

April 4 & 5, 7:30pm Hedwig and the Angry Inch Brilliantly innovative, heartbreaking and wickedly funny, this landmark American musical is ahead of its time. Tickets start at $75. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308. Go to hedwigandangryinch.eventticketscenter.com or call 866820-4553 for tickets.

Park Living | March 2017

Dad’s Turkey Chili Recipe Corner by Souper Jenny

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 T Olive Oil 1 red onion, diced 1 red pepper, diced 1 yellow pepper, diced 2 # Ground Turkey 2 T Dark Chili Powder 1/2 C dark brown sugar 1-28 oz Chopped Can Tomato 1-15oz can of each bean, drained White, Black, Kidney, Chili Bean Salt and Pepper Hot Sauce to taste

METHOD

1. Sauté onions and peppers until soft. 2. Add ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and brown. 3. Add chili powder, brown sugar and tomatoes. 4. Simmer for 30 minutes. 5. Add beans; cook for another 15 minutes. 6. Taste and season with salt, pepper and hot sauce.

ENJOY!

NEIGHBORHOOD CLASSIFIEDS

IS YOUR MARKETING ON TARGET?

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JANUARY 2017

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JANUARY 2017

Lunch and Earn Networking Group Closed referral networking group consisting of entrepreneurs, small business owners and seasoned professionals seeking like minded, goal oriented members to join us. We meet every Thursday for lunch from 11:30 - 1:00 at Southern Bistro, located at 4920 Roswell Rd, Atlanta 30342. Call (404)-433-2120

An exclusive magazine serving the residents An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chastain & Tuxedo Parks of Chastain & Tuxedo Parks

Have something to sell or give away? To place your free classified, go to www.bestversionmedia. com and click “Submit Content.” For free listings, ads must be 40 words or less, non-business related. You will receive email confirmation.

In This Issue Family Feature

How to take care of YOU in 2017 Souper Jenny Recipe Corner Kidz Corner and Family Activities AND MORE!

Hey Kids! Free Advertising!

In This Issue

The Leff Family

Family Feature

How to take care of YOU in 2017

Motto - We are Family!

By Tania Schade Souper Jenny RecipePhotograph Corner

Be in business for yourself and make a little money–all while helping your neighbors! Please limit to 40 words and include your age. Parental permission will be obtained. SAMPLE: Pet Sitting Samantha, 13 I can take care of your dogs and cats while you are busy or on vacation, up to a week at a time. For details, call me at 333-333-3333.

Kidz Corner and Family Activities AND MORE!

We help businesses target and penetrate the most affluent buyers in the marketplace with a positive, relevant, and family-friendly magazine.

The Leff Family

Contact: Taylor Higdon Motto - We are Family! Phone: 404-918-9512 Photograph By Tania Schade

thigdon@bestversionmedia.com

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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT: CURE

Fighting the Good Fight By Barbara S. Tapp

lthough the mission is daunting and the tasks seemingly endless, the staff and supporters of CURE are tireless in their efforts to end childhood cancer. Currently, 46 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer every day. Statistically, every high school in the nation contains at least two students who have either survived childhood cancer or are in the battle. That is why CURE is dedicated to funding research that will end this nightmare. Most of the group’s proceeds go toward funding research to find a cure for this dreaded disease. Research is the key. According to Director of Communications Mark Myers, 54 percent of its budget funds research. “Our funding decisions are guided by our Scientific Advisory Council, a group of doctors and scientists who conduct a thorough review of research proposals in order to assess scientific merit and alignment with CURE’s goals,” Myers explains. “We focus our funding on projects aimed at improving outcomes for the 20 percent of children not surviving today’s methods of treatment. In addition, we fund projects for developing therapies that will preserve a child’s quality of life after treatment.” Because of the devastating financial and emotional toll treatment can take on a family, another third of the budget is spent on supporting patients and families going through cancer or those who have

Park Living | March 2017

lost a child to cancer. The genesis of the organization began when Emory University pediatric oncologist Dr. Abdel Ragab needed support to build a pediatric oncology research program in 1975. The survival rate of children with cancer during that time was a mere 10 percent. Dr. Ragab marshalled the support of parents of his patients who immediately hit the ground running to raise funds. By 1978, CURE had contributed $20,000 to purchase a special microscope that helped to diagnose different types of childhood leukemia. In 1981, the organization made a large donation to establish a research lab on the Emory campus. Initially intended to be temporary, the facility transformed from a new outpatient clinic in 1987 to a fully equipped childhood cancer research lab in 1989. And the work continues. Executive Director Kristin Connor states, “A decade ago, we were investing $250,000 each year in research, and today our yearly investment is more than $3 million. This is great progress but not enough. My ultimate goal is simple: Shut down our organization, because there’s no longer a need for it.” The CURE board of directors and the scientific community at large maintain that, through research, a cure for childhood cancer WILL be found.

BUSINESS BIO: Cathy LaMon, Keller Williams Buckhead

Putting Out the Welcome Mat By Barbara S. Tapp

ask for introductions to their friends and family who can use our help. We don’t spend time cold-calling; instead, we pour ourselves into serving the clients we have.” Combining business with fun is also important to Cathy and her colleagues. “We love having parties for our clients and friends,” she says. “We want to create community and introduce nice people to other nice people!”

@jasminealexisevents

he great American Dream is still home ownership. Through economic peaks and valleys, most of us still want the security of owning our own home. Cathy LaMon truly believes this, and is dedicated to making the dream come true for all. “We help families buy and sell one of their largest assets,” she says. “Our goal is to make the process smooth and enjoyable and a win-win for all parties.” After working in sales for IBM, Cathy started her career in residential real estate in 1992. She enjoys seeing the joy that new homes bring. A new home can signal a fresh start, a new beginning. “We help families achieve major life goals, and moving to a new home is one of these,” she explains. “I love setting the strategy, executing it, and then completing the process of moving a family—and ending it all with a smile!” Besides her growing real estate business, Cathy is active at her church, the Cathedral of St. Philip, in Buckhead Rotary and on the board of her alma mater, the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. A mother to two grown daughters and a four-pound Chihuahua named Leroy, Cathy, a widow, is “happy to remarry in May,” she says. Educating clients and potential clients is part of Cathy’s real estate mission. She has written a guide “11 Things You MUST Know Before Buying Luxury Real Estate in Buckhead” and offers it free to interested parties. “We serve our clients on a deeper level,” she remarks, “and want to earn the right to

Cosmetic, Biological - All Natural Dentistry Michaela McKenzie, DDS, AIAOMT

(770) 993-9217 http://www.dazzlingsmiles.org

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NEIGHBORHOOD REAL ESTATE MARKET ACTIVITY as of February 16, 2017

Under Contract Under Contract 4256 Tuxedo Forest Dr

Quick Statistics List Price Sale Price

Chastain Park

Sold in January 2017 Under Contract 3605 Tuxedo Court NW 469 Blackland Road NW 4418 E Conway Drive NW 30 Karland Drive NW

List Price $850,000

Min $525,000 $515,000

Max $4,495,000 $4,000,000

Tuxedo Park Tuxedo Park Chastain Park Tuxedo Park

Sale Price $4,000,000 $1,650,000 $1,399,000 $515,000

Median $1,548,500 $1,525,500

Average $2,029,250 $1,891,000

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data, which is provided by the magazine. The data is in no way a part of any agent’s ad, and the agent may or may not have participated in the sale of any listing.

Cathy LaMon

Everything I do begins with you

Meet Atlanta’s “Best-In-Class” Realtor Reaching her client’s real estate goals through her timeless approach to excellent customer service and by putting the client’s needs ﬁrst.

cathy@cathylamon.com Cathy LaMon.com (404) 805-2273 Call for a copy of her article, "13 Things You MUST Know Before Buying a Luxury Home in Buckhead"

Park Living | March 2017

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR: Charles Willis

Real Versus Cyber Space Shopping There’s nothing like a brick-and-mortar store for shopping nirvana.

By Edyth Shadburn

ecently there was an article titled “The Lure of an Actual Store” in the New York Times about the current retail scene in the United States. The perception is that the future belongs to shopping “online” and, indeed, most of us love to use the internet. In truth, web-influenced sales are growing: A customer researches a product, then buys it in a brick-and-mortar store. This trend accounts for almost 40 percent of retail sales. Many customers are up to date in their knowledge and awareness of available tabletop and gift items due to their internet research. The influence of the web is huge, but there is no substitute for putting your hands on that dinner plate and experiencing the level of quality or the true hues of the colors. In fact, many customers reject the choices they made on the internet once they encounter the real thing. In addition, tastes can change once the china pattern or serving bowl is seen in the context of the dinner table. And more importantly, never underestimate the guidance of informed professionals who know these products best. Each customer is different, but the internet doesn’t know this and cannot pick up on the nuances of tastes. Comparison shopping is always an advantage; so is the ability to see items side by side and in context of a room setting, for example. All retail stores offer their surprises as well. In the realm of dining, a favorite is monogrammed linens available in placemats, napkins in several sizes and guest towels. These can be coordinated with the colors of a china pattern to make your tablescape a work of art. After all, many of our favorite items were serendipitous— impulse buys that continue to please every day. So bring on the web, but don’t forget the real stores that enhance the shopping experience. Having a personal relationship with an expert is an invaluable and enjoyable way to source the perfect finds for your home. Edyth Shadburn is the president of Charles Willis, Atlanta. Established in 1948, this Atlanta tradition features more than 400 china patterns on display, crystal, flatware, stationery, full-service jewelry boutique, and a range of lamps and gift items.

465 E Paces Ferry Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 233-9487 www.charleswillis.com

A Monogram for every occasion!

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TIPS OF THE TRADE

When Is The Best Time To Strech—Before or After Exercising? By Jamie Bodner

Jamie Bodner

ike most of us from the 80’s and 90’s eras, we had high school coaches who were most likely also our history teachers during the school day. I’m sure we all remember how we would begin practice: Get in lineup formation and stretch. Although very well intended, we had it backwards. Because your muscles are cold from having little to no movement from a day at school, beginning a workout or a practice with a stretch isn’t beneficial for your body. I have been in fitness for more than 24 years and since 2002, have made fitness my business. I have read hundreds, if not thousands, of pages on stretching. So, get ready for the best Cliff Notes you will get about stretching! The first thing that should be done before a workout is a dynamic body movement warm-up. This can be as simple as a brisk walk, to as complicated as a compilation of 14 movements that move every joint in the body and warm up your core temperature. A proper warm-up should be anywhere from 5 minutes up to 20 minutes. My two personal favorites: 10 minutes on the StairMaster without holding on or 10 minutes on the rowing machine. Both exercises warm up your legs, core, back and arms, which is perfect before a good workout. For a more customized warm-up that may target some of your trouble spots, seek out a personal trainer to assess your body so they can design a specific plan for you. After your workout, you should do a 5-minute to 10-minute active static stretch targeting the muscle groups you just finished working and the muscles that may be tight.

Here’s a great example of what stretches you should do after a run. 1. Kick one leg up on a bench. 2. Both legs should remain straight and hinge forward to lengthen your hamstring (muscle in the back of your leg). 3. Hold that for 7 to 10 seconds, then switch legs. 4. Repeat that 3 times, then move to the quadriceps (front of your legs). The bottom line is: dynamic movements to warm up and a static stretch to finish. Get moving, stay healthy and keep up the great work! Jamie Bodner, the owner of Pinnacle Fitness in Buckhead, has been in the fitness industry as trainer and teacher for 24 years. He is certified in Sports Performance in the areas of nutrition, arthritis, special population and sports posifice training, and core/functional training.

P I N N AC L E F I T N E S S THE HIGHEST POINT OF FITNESS Yoga Weight Loss Kinesis Wall Infrared Sauna

Personal Training Small Group Training Titleist Golf Fitness Personal & Classes

3215 Cains Hill Pl NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 pinnaclefitness8@gmail.com www.pinnaclefitnessgym.com 404-228-3705 Park Living | March 2017

Creative Styles for Your Mini Me This fun line of kids’ clothes reflects their many personalities.

By Barbara S. Tapp

t’s a new concept in shopping for kids’ clothes. Mini Mischief offers not only the convenience of buying online, but also a seasonal pop-up shop concept where items are offered at various locations around Atlanta. Owned by Krista Sims, a local mother of three young ones under 5 years old, Mini Mischief is a unique baby and kids shop that combines well-chosen European and American brands. She was inspired by the “curious, playfulness, rascality and fun nature of children,” she says. The featured companies are not only producing some of the coolest trends, but also gravitate towards designing items made of organic cottons and ink dyes without chemicals. Educational information on the website (shopminimischief.com) for each item is an added bonus. For example, the certified organic cotton muslin blanket swaddle ($27) inscribed with “You are my greatest adventure” comes with this note: “Black and white are more than just design choices. High contrast black and white patterns enhance baby’s vision and stimulate brain development.” The website also hosts Krista’s blog, with informative and entertaining posts on her children, vacation and other adventures and tips; a recent entry is titled “Why I Sent Myself to Timeout.” Mini Mischief supports brands that represent positivity in children, and the free spirit that typifies childhood. Mini Mischief also supports a local charity called Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with cancer, and The Willow School, which provides a positive educational environment for small children. Let your kids express themselves through their clothing. Some of the most popular items at Mini Mischief include its line of tees, emblazoned with bold graphics and messages like “Sorry in advance … for like whatever,” a deer head with “Oh deer,” and “Whiz kid.” Fashion can make a statement.

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KIDZ CORNER

By Tori S. Bevens

To create a 5 Minute Puppet, simply follow these easy steps: Sketch out an animal face on some colored paper, cut out, and glue to the bottom of the bag, facing the mouth area to the side of the bag that folds inward when the bag is folded. Cut out a mouthpiece and, under the bottom flap of the bag, glue the mouthpiece slightly below the face piece so that the mouth shows a bit even with the bag is folded up. Sketch and cut out a tail; glue the tail to the back of the bag. Add eyes and other desired features by cutting and pasting paper pieces, or simply drawing them on. Let the glue dry, then let the puppet show begin!

What you need:

1 or more paper lunch bags, colored paper/cardstock, markers, glue, tape

For extra puppet fun, make a set of animals for your puppet show. Make a barnyard full with a cow, horse, pig, sheep, and goat. Or put together your very own Bremen Town Musicians skit with a cat, dog, donkey, and rooster. Be even more creative by making up your own puppet monsters. The fun is limited only by your imagination!

Park Living | March 2017

PET CORNER

Your Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Next Best Friend: Connery By Adopt-a-Golden Atlanta

Do you have a pet that you rescued? Send a pic to thigdon@bestversionmedia.com and I will share your picture next month. (There will be a maximum of 2 pets per month, and I will publish in the order received).

Pies. Passion. Purpose.

onnery is one of the Golden Retrievers rescued from Istanbul, Turkey, by Adopt a Golden Atlanta. He arrived in Atlanta in December. Connery is a 10-year-old boy who is very sweet and easy-going. He would love to have another dog in the family. To learn more about Connery and other adoptable golden retrievers, contact Adopt a Golden Atlanta at www.adoptagoldenatlanta.com

order online @

www.dardensdelights.com

Homemade Pies = Great Gifts

To adopt Connery or any of our orphans, contact Adopt a Golden Atlanta at: www.adoptagoldenatlanta.com.

Order by Phone: 404-973-8760

241 West Wieuca Rd. Atlanta, GA 30342

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GOING GREEN GARDENING CORNER

Beauties of Late Winter SNEAK PEAK: A premature Spring could be a blessing—or a curse. By Betsey Norton

ith February’s early onset of warm temperatures, spring blossoms popped out on trees, bulbs and perennial shrubs. What will the beginning of the actual Spring season bring? Both people and nature seem a bit confused about the warm weather that has spread through the South this late winter. For many Southerners, it’s quite easy to acclimate and be comfortably adjusted to a longer growing season; in fact, for some, it’s preferable. There is always the chance of a late snow or ice storm, as has happened in seasons past, and the chance that plants will freeze over and become stunned by low temperatures once appreciable growth and leaf output has begun. Winter seasonal flowers, herbs and veggies perform with vigor during the extra warm winter days and mild nights. Violas, pansies, snapdragons and leafy greens have settled into the pleasant temperatures and, with regular rain, have been thriving and delighting with blooms for weeks. Seasonal ornamental shrubs such as camellia, golden forsythia, peachypink quince and even winter jasmine have been quite a show. Fields of daffodils, fragrant hyacinth and darling crocus have graced beautiful landscapes throughout Atlanta for weeks. The evergreen perennials—Lenten roses, euphorbia and quick-toleaf-out roses and jasmine vines—have also come into to bud and bloom weeks ahead of the norm. These hardy characters can generally manage a late blast of winter weather, though there are some plants which will do best with extra care. Though there is a natural and eager urge to set out summer bedding plants, vegetables and annual herbs as soon as warm

Park Living | March 2017

weather seems consistent, keep in mind that there is always a chance of freezing and inclement weather through mid-April in Georgia. In fact, the general rule of thumb has always been that April 15th is the last freeze date to expect. It is not unusual at all to have deep freezes right up until that time. Perennials and hardy shrubs will suffer from some amount of foliage burn, and, if in bloom, may drop buds. Tender new growth on plants may be burned by freezing temperatures and some may be stunted at the start of the season. But fear not! There are a few measures you should take in preparation for a lovely, early season and for the chance of any late, stinging weather that may burst through Georgia. Plan for late freezes by keeping a handful of extra sheets or old, light blankets on hand to throw across shrubs that have fully greened up, such as hydrangea. Resist the urge to set out early annual flowers in beds and keep tropical indoor-type plants inside (or close to a patio door) to protect extra-tender plants from succumbing to late winter frosts. Tropical and succulent plants that have lived indoors through winter will thank you for the extra protected time before being set outside for the “growing season.” Get ready, friends: Gardens and landscapes are soon to abound in rich growth and endless color! If we can wait out these last few weeks of winter, we will be richly rewarded this season with blooms and gorgeous landscapes. There is no shortage of color, texture and amazement this coming season. We are delighted with the early touches of Spring that Ma’ Nature presents and will be prepared for what is to come in the next many weeks! Betsey Norton is certified in Sustainable Landscaping and her passion is apparent in every design and installation she completes.

Needed! Stars for Stories Do you want to discover new things about your neighbors? Want to be in the headlines? Want to see your pictures published? We’re looking for neighborhood families, business owners or individuals who have a story to share. That story might be to celebrate an award you’ve won, to share your recent vacation, or simply to introduce yourself and share a message with neighbors. We are bringing local to the next level and want this magazine to serve you. Let us know what you hope to see in these monthly pages.

Here’s how to get started. Use these prompts to fire up your imagination: • Brainstorm what you would like to see in this magazine. • Has your family taken a vacation recently? Perhaps you could write a review or recommend a getaway destination. • Do you have any special talents in your family? Do you play musical instruments? Do you have a band? Are you running a marathon? Are you the next Einstein? Do you make and sell crafts? • Business owners, the community starts right outside your front door. The family feature story is a great place to introduce your services to those closest to you. • Volunteers, are you passionate about charity work? Do you organize a fundraiser each year for a nonprofit or walk to fight disease? Your story might motivate and inspire others in life-changing ways. • Are you the leader of a book club or card-playing group? Do you organize the dinner club or ladies’ night out? Show neighbors how much fun you are having and invite newcomers to join you with an article and photos. • If you are involved in your homeowners’ association, use this magazine to inform neighbors of events, neighborhood activities, yard sales, new officers, meeting minutes, contact info for board members, or other announcements. The process is easy. You send us your ideas or recommend neighbors, and we will talk with you, write the article and gather photos. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” Or, simply e-mail Taylor Higdon at thigdon@ bestversionmedia.com

M ASTE R C RAFTSME N C USTOM BUIL DE RS RE MODE L IN G

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Take Advantage of your Neighborhood Magazine Park Living is all about bringing people together and fostering a closer-knit community! Check out the many ways that you can contribute to and take advantage of your monthly neighborhood magazine: Share Your Pix! Do you have photos from your latest vacation? Have you captured a nature scene or a touching moment that begs to be shared? Let us help preserve your memories! Pet Corner Share your love for your precious pet by introducing him/ her to the community! Whether your friend is of the feline, canine, amphibian, avian or other species, we recognize the uniqueness of your pet and are happy to share his/her quirks, habits, favorite activities and more.

Resident Features Get to know your neighbors and community one resident at a time. We enjoy featuring residents from all walks of life. Make the magazine your own by submitting nominations of families or individuals who you would like to see highlighted – it could be the newest or longest-living residents on the block, your friends next door, the hobbyist, entrepreneur, etc. Help us honor those people who make this community a great place to live, work and raise a family. Or use this feature as a way to share your own story with neighbors. See pages 4-5 for one example of a family feature.

Bulletin Board Celebrate life’s milestones and events! Post announcements such as engagements, weddings or anniversaries, hats-off to graduates, military recognition, new baby announcements, retiree congrats, neighborhood garage sales and more. If you have a submission or feature idea, simply email Taylor Higdon at thigdon@bestversionmedia.com with your name and submission info. Please note the submission deadlines found on page 3. We look forward to hearing your ideas.

Social Scene What’s happening in the neighborhood? If you’re part of a book club, social group or charity organization promoting fun or service in the community, share your experiences and photos, and invite others to join you! Association Updates If your neighborhood has a homeowners association, we offer an open invitation to post information to your neighbors through this publication for free. Saving association money and putting it towards ways to improve your subdivision is important, so we create customized HOA sections, saving you time and money. Youth Classifieds Budding entrepreneurs can submit free classified advertising their services to the community. With parental permission, youth can grow their babysitting, lawn care, pet care and other small business services by submitting a free ad. School & Extracurricular Activities Showcase promising athletes, artists and actors among us by submitting photos and details on your kids’ accomplishments, as well as information on school events and fundraisers your family is involved in. Park Living | March 2017

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Win an Ultimate Theater Experience Movie Night For 8!* Awesome audio! I was Blown Away! M.W.

Just Answer the trivia question in the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter and send it by the 15th of each month to thigdon@bestversionmedia.com. I will place all names in a Random Name Picker App and notify the winner by the 17th of each month via email. *Movie Nights occur the 2nd Thursday of the upcoming month