Spring Has Sprung! Our Founder Turns 50! LaShanda Pitts, CLS Founder & CEO is Living the La 5 OH! Life at 50

Makeup Lights Camera!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT! CONCESSIONAIRE SPOTLIGHT! CLASSY HAPPENINGS!

Enhanced by Lai - Makeup Tips & More!

Atlanta Glow Meet Ashlie James, Founder

Jan/Feb/March 2018

Editor’s Note Incredible. Amazing.

Outstanding. Phenomenal.

Happy New Year! We are at the end of the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter of 2018 already and spring is upon us! How time flies when you’re having fun!

Incredible

2018 is an year for milestones for Classy Living Society. First, our founder, Mrs. LaShanda D. Pitts turned the BIG 5-0 in January. Her Founder’s Note, found in this issue, tells the story of how it feels to turn 50 and about her special giving back celebration through Shade, CLS’ socially conscious lipstick line. Second, Classy Living Society is celebrating its Fifth Anniversary (more on that in a later issue!).

Amazing

It is also an year for women – recently there was a global celebration of women through International Women’s Day. Classy Living Society is always celebrating women – the women of the world and, of course, our members and friends. As always, we are celebrating amazing women doing amazing things in the community – read our article about Ashlie James of Atlanta GLOW, an amazing non-profit which endeavors to encourage, educate and equip young, low-income women to be thriving, self-sustaining leaders and effective agents of economic growth within their communities. We also present our Classy Concessionaire and Membership Spotlights in this issue and tell you all about them.

Outstanding!

Classy Living Society members are We have done some really outstanding things in the community in this first quarter. Packing meals, gardening, delivering food, valeting bikes, getting up early in the morning for a 4:30 a.m. volunteer event start….whew, I’m tired just thinking about all we did!

Phenomenal

AND there’s the news of all of the classy happenings that are coming our/your way. We feed you little nuggets of it in this issue…but I WILL share one phenomenal new thing right here -- because of the Classy Chronicles’ phenomenal success, CLS will soon introduce a very exciting new exciting concept...CHRONICLES TOO! - a brand NEW media venture. Read all about it in our Classy Happenings section! Spring has sprung! That means warmer days, the feel of new grass between our toes, the air is fresh and the flowers smell magnificent! Here’s to the New Life that Spring will bring...Salud!

Founder’s Note

By LaShanda Pitts

The Gift of 50! 50 years old! OMG!

I keep telling myself what a blessing it is to have reached such a milestone of my life! I made it! I made it! Turning 50 was one of my biggest accomplishments to date. It is an amazing feeling to be chosen and approved to join the Elite 50+ Club and to be among the men and women who also made it. With each birthday, we experience great introspection and reflection, and sometimes a little anxiety, in the days leading up to the actual big day. With milestone birthdays, the volume of this thought process of “where I am and who I am” is turned up to the highest degree! No doubt about it, turning 50 this year has had pretty much embroiled in my thoughts! Now, mind you, I am not one to harp on what I haven’t done -- my focus has always been on what I’m going to do. No regrets, no gazing in the rearview - just forward motion. After all, above all, and through it all, I made it! So, now is the time for me to really live out loud. Those bucket list items just became more important than ever. I’m looking at that bucket list to see what things have NOT been checked off as completed! What haven’t I done? Hmmm, let’s do it! I am experiencing a sense of pure freedom. Free. Free to clear the clutter of things and people that no longer provide authentic love and light. Free. A brand new opportunity to be free to show more love to those who fill my life with carefree laughter. Free. Time to rid myself of the notion that everything has to be NOW and free myself from driving myself crazy. Free. Free to stop overthinking and let things flow at ease. Free. Becoming more of who I know I am and free to simply relax and love this feeling! Somehow, I already know that this amazing Fifth Decade of my life is sure to be the most incredible fun I’ve ever had -- because I made it!

Editor’s Note - In celebration of our Founder’s milestone birthday, she has created a special giving back initiative through Shade, CLS’ socially conscious line of lipsticks. For every purchase of shades “Timeless” and “La 5 Oh,” 100 percent of the proceeds go to Atlanta GLOW (read all about them in this issue). To purchase, visit www.iwearshade.com

Contents 8

You May Be Glitzy & Glammed… Now Get Enhanced!

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Sexy Intelligent Nice Godly Lovable Exciting Be content with being S.I.N.G.L.E.

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TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

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Member Spotlight Terry Denham

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THE CLASSY WOMAN READS

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THE DESIRE TO BE THIN

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Concessionaire Mixer WOMEN IN BUSINESS

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Concessionaire Spotlight Patina Copeland Rivers

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Community Outreach

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GO GREEN CLS CARES

Contributors Editor in Chief

JANINE LATTIMORE

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Creative Director

ATLANTA GLOW

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CLASSy HAPPENINGS

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CLS GOES FRESH

LASHANDA PITTS Contributing Writers:

JANINE LATTIMORE AVIS PITTS DR. ERICA HUDSON LAQUITCHA WASHINGTON (LADY Q) VALÉRIE ALERTE KAVANAGH, MBA KIMBERLY SNODDY GEORGE LAI COOPER

You May Be Glitzy & Glammed… Now Get Enhanced! A Candid Interview with LaiEisha “Lai” Cooper Makeup Artist and Owner of Enhance By Lai By: Valérie Alerte Kavanagh, MBA

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tlanta has become a city of “Lights, Camera, Action” and of course with that comes the glitz, the glam and the glamour! I am excited to have had the opportunity to chat with LaiEisha Cooper “Lai”, of Enhance By Lai. What is Lai “enhancing” you may ask? Women’s natural beauty of course! Lai is an extraordinarily talented Makeup Artist with nearly a decade of experience and her talent with a mascara wand or tube of lipstick will make every woman feel as if she is starring in her very own movie role. Lai originally hails from Andrews, South Carolina and moved to Atlanta, Georgia as a young girl. Lai has enhanced the looks and further captured the sheer beauty of women who merely want to shine brighter, both outside and in, and be forever spectacular and always camera ready. She has had the opportunity to work with celebrities and continues to grow her portfolio of service offerings. It’s important to Lai that she teach women the art of makeup and by sharing her makeup application expertise, she can assure that ALL women she comes in contact with can master the “looks” and trends they want and feel like a star every day!

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What would you say sets you apart from other Makeup Artists? What sets me apart from other makeup artists would be my personality and my ability to connect with different types of people. No matter the age, race, or even the gender of my client, I will make sure I make them feel as comfortable as possible while I’m servicing and “glamming” up their look. Most importantly, I give my clients the opportunity to vent as much as they need to, because being a makeup artist is not just about applying makeup -- it is also a chance to encourage and “enhance” someone who may need extra inspiration to feel beautiful on the inside too! In many ways, this allows me to make a difference directly in the lives of my clients, even if it is only for a moment. While you are busy inspiring others, as a makeup artist, you have to remain inspired as well. What inspires you? My inspiration is my family and friends. They always support me and keep me motivated with their words of encouragement! Makeup trends come, go and evolve frequently. What trends should women follow this Spring?

Can you share with us, when you decided that being a makeup artist was what you wanted to pursue as a career, and why? I discovered that I wanted to be a makeup artist in my freshman year in college. I watched makeup tutorials on YouTube in my free time and would mimic the exact look that the YouTuber created. I began doing makeup for my roommates and other colleagues and thought to myself, “I need to be a Makeup Artist!” In May 2011, I enrolled in Gwynnis Mosby Makeup Academy, where I received my Certificate in Makeup Artistry. I have been doing makeup ever since!

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The top 2018 spring trends for makeup are golden highlighters, colored eyeliners and bright lips in hues of red, orange, and fuchsia! Some of my favorite lip shades can be found on www.IWearShade.com so, be sure to check out the following colors: InspiRED, Tan G, La 5 Oh!, and Purple Majesty -- these shades will surely complete and transform any trendy look this Spring! Tell us two cosmetic products that you tell your clients they should never leave home without? If I were to suggest only two items, I always tell my clients to never leave home without their lipgloss and/or lipstick and their musthave “touch-up” translucent powder. A lady never wants to have bare and dry lips nor overly oily skin.

Is there a favorite lipstick line you prefer to use on your clients and why? My favorite lipstick line that I absolutely LOVE to use on my clients would have to be SHADE. SHADE is a socially conscious lipstick line and not to mention, they have every color you can imagine! SHADE is long lasting and very moisturizing on the lips! What’s even more phenomenal about this line of lipsticks, is you are also helping someone else when you purchase any SHADE lipstick or lip gloss. With every lipstick purchase, you allow for a portion of the proceeds to be donated to whatever organization that you choose upon ordering. Who wouldn’t want to help someone else in need, make a difference in the community, the world at large and SLAY at the same time?! Understanding that you are in high demand, are you available for weddings, bridal showers and personal beauty days, and in-home makeup sessions? I am available for weddings, baby showers, photoshoots, video shoots, commercials, movies, entertainment events, stage performances, and anyone who simply wants to have their makeup done and feel and look like their inner star!

To schedule a Makeup Session with Lai by Enhance by Lai,

please visit the Booking Site at: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=13226619 Social Media: Follow on Instagram: EnhanceByLai Services Available: Makeup Services, 1:1 and Group Makeup Tutorial classes Discounts: Classy Living Society, LLC (CLS) members receive 20% off of all regular makeup services and training classes.

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Makeup Tips

By Lai Cooper 12

Enjoy these expert tips from Lai Cooper - Enhance by Lai!

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When applying eyeshadow the key is to BLEND, BLEND, BLEND!

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Make sure your brows are always cleaned up and trimmed before filling in.

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Try a strip lash to take your mini face to the next level.

Apply a translucent powder to the oily places on the face after you apply your face primer and before you apply any concealer or foundation to have more control over shine.

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You can use drugstore products for concealer or brow fillers but always be sure to invest a little extra cash in your foundation, powder and lipstick.

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Before applying “matte” and long-lasting liquid lacquers, such as “Tan G” from SHADE, you want to be sure to exfoliate and precondition your lips. The best way to accomplish this is to use a warm wash cloth, or soft bristled toothbrush and in a circular motion gently remove dry skin from your lips. When your lips have been exfoliated, apply a thin layer of moisturizing lip balm to your lips before applying your favorite long-lasting, liquid to matte finish lacquer.

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When applying a “Bold” Lipstick such as “Lady” from SHADE, be sure (after applying your lipstick) to carefully trace around your lip line with a translucent powder or concealer in a shade that compliments your skin tone. This will give your lips a more defined look.

Visit: www.IWearShade.com to find your perfect lip color.

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Sexy Intelligent Nice Godly Lovable Exciting Be content with being

S.I.N.G.L.E. By Comedian Lady Q

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Editor’s Note: ALL THE SINGLE LADIES! ALL THE SINGLE LADIES! *BIG SIGH!* Valentine’s Day has come and gone again - and if you’re a single lady and didn’t have a date for Love Day; the next day you probably said to yourself, “This is the LAST year I’m going to be single on Valentine’s Day!” And OH, how many times have we said that! Well, it’s okay to make the proclamation...but in the meantime, I’m going to let Comedian Lady Q tell us how to be happy being S.I.N.G.L.E....

ere I am, 45 years old...funny, loving, I’m a great cook, own my own home, holding down a good stable job, have grown children…and NO MAN! Why Lawd?? After combing through all of this in my head for quite a while, I have come to the realization, that it is not me! It’s NOT my fault! I am not too picky, I am not high maintenance, I am not needy...I am simply the woman that God made me to be. Some days are better than most; when I am comfortable with being single. I can come and go as I please, don’t have to answer to anyone, don’t have to experience a panic attack when he doesn’t answer his phone. I don’t have to concern myself with some chicken head pushing up on my man, whether I’m with him or not. Then, there are those other days when I’m sitting in front of my fireplace with a glass of wine, wanting some strong hands caressing my thigh, or when I’m sitting at my dinner table with an awesome meal I’ve cooked, and look across the table at an empty chair. Those are the days I desire a significant other in my life. Being alone, does not mean I’m lonely. I have become content with life at this time. I am able to walk in purpose with no distractions and prepare myself for the man God has for me. Preparation is very important for the things we want in life. Why not use our single moments preparing for the man God has for us? I can hear you asking -- “how do I do that, Lady Q?” I’m glad you asked…

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Learn to be happy and love yourself! Grow in confidence and be true to the real you! If you have “issues,” embrace them or make a change!

Watch and learn from happily married couples! Yes, everyone is different, but if you want to know how to make it work, ask those who are happily married, and have been happily married for a long time. Don’t ask your divorced friends, who say… “Girl I will NEVER marry again!”

Read the Bible. God teaches a wife how to treat her husband, and vice versa. Gain an understanding of how God expects us to be; we must put Him (God) first. Allow God to bring you your Boaz!

Look ladies, I’m no relationship expert. But I AM a firm believer that what God has for me is for me! At this moment, he has me on a platform, and it would take a strong man, an understanding man, and a confident man to deal with me and my schedule. Don’t apologize for being successful, don’t apologize for being beautiful, don’t apologize for being strong and independent. Be thankful for who are, and who God has made you to be at this appointed time, for your appointed purpose. Sexy, Intelligent, Nice, Godly, Loveable, Exciting (S.I.N.G.L.E.)! Don’t say who you, be who you are. Maya Angelou said, “When people show you who they are, believe them.” Biblical advice: “Ruth patiently waited for her mate Boaz.” While you are waiting on YOUR Boaz, don’t settle for any of his relatives: Broke-az, Poaz, Lyin-az, Cheating-az, Dumb-az, Drunkaz, Cheap-az, Lockedup-az, Goodfornothingaz, Lazy-az, and especially his third cousin, Beatinyo-az… Wait on your Boaz and make sure he respects Yoaz.” A-MEN! I Am Comedian Lady Q! Laughter Is Healing… My Purpose My Passion!

LaQuitcha Lanay Washington a/k/a Comedian Lady Q, is an Atlanta, Georgia resident and has been making people laugh all her life. Hilariously funny and talented, Lady Q is regarded as one of the most sought-after “clean” comedians of today. Follow her on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lady-Q-Laughter-121112871235897/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/laughterq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comedianladyq/

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TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

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he month of February was Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, during which time advocates and those bringing awareness to domestic violence join together to raise awareness, provide education and assistance, and encourage communities to become involved. Teen dating violence is defined as “a pattern of abuse or threat of abuse against teenage dating partners, occurring in different forms, including verbal, emotional, physical, sexual and digital.� National statistics demonstrate that each year, approximately 1.5 million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating partner. What’s more, three in four parents have never had a discussion with their teen about domestic violence. Many resources are available to educate teens and to help adults provide education on teen domestic violence. Discussion of such topics can be a daunting task, to be sure, but education and discussion are instrumental in not only bringing awareness to domestic violence, but to help break the silence of those suffering from abuse. Anyone and everyone is equipped to raise awareness - by saying something when you know someone is being abused, by asking relevant questions if you suspect a teen is being abused and helping to organize others to make a difference. Not only can we all assist teens and young adults who are suffering at the hands of an abuser, we can also help educate them on building strong (and non-abusive, non-violent) relationships. In this way, we can stop teen dating violence before it begins! There is a plethora of organizations, movements, advocate groups and governmental agencies who work together and with communities and schools to stamp out teen dating violence. For example, one such organization, Break the Cycle, inspires and supports young people 12 - 24 to build healthy relationships and create a culture without abuse. They are a culturally affirming organization that centers young people, caring adults, and communities in their prevention and intervention efforts. They believe that all young people deserve to live in a world where they can thrive. Classy Living Society led a virtual campaign to bring awareness to Teen Domestic Violence by encouraging members and others to share relevant information on their social media pages during the month of February.

Resources: National Resource Center on Domestic Violence: https://nrcdv.org/dvam/tdvam Break the Cycle: https://www.breakthecycle.org 19

Member Spotlight Terry Denham By Avis Pitts

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When Service Meets Passion, the Possibilities are Endless The Cambridge English Dictionary defines goodwill as “a friendly attitude in which you wish that good things happen to people.”

erry Denham not only embraces this spirit of goodwill, she also acts on it. When speaking with Terry, it’s obvious that her persistence and zest for life have no limits. She works to bring out the best in others, in her environment and has always been an advocate for service in her community. To understand Terry’s profound commitment is to understand what drives someone to move forward even when the odds may be against them.

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Looking Back Born Peta-Gay Theresa Denham on the beautiful island of Jamaica, Terry was raised in a poverty-stricken family until the age of seven. Shortly after that, she transitioned to be with her mother, but Terry had already learned how to appreciate absolutely everything she’d been given. Becoming a naturalized citizen at the age of ten, a judge gave Terry the chance to start making some very important decisions. Giving her a chance to confirm her name under oath, Terry asked “Wait...do I have a choice about my name?” After the judge answered yes, the rest was history. She went from Peta-Gay Theresa Denham to Theresa Terry Denham. Not realizing that Terry was the nickname for Theresa, her name technically became Terry Terry Denham. She says she later “fixed” her name and became Theresa P. Denham. Terry not only proved that it’s not all in a name, she reaffirmed her belief that everything is fixable and that nothing really stays broken.

Fostering Hope The first feeling of goodwill and caring came at the age of 15 when Terry’s family insisted that she not be left alone after school. She was immediately enrolled at a daycare center where she often sat in the director’s office. Being considerably older than the other children, Terry was offered a chance to assist in the infant room. God’s plans for her life began to unfold and she had no doubt that childcare was her true calling. Going back and forth from corporate America to child care was challenging for a while. “Childcare just wasn’t paying enough to keep a roof over my children’s heads and food in their months.” Being a single mother of two beautiful children was rewarding but also challenging as Terry attributes overcoming her many trials to her faith in God. She felt another “tug” at her calling when her son needed open heart surgery at the age of one. The stress of caring for an infant with health challenges was overwhelming. Terry remembers the surgeon giving her her son’s aftercare instructions and thinking, “There’s no way I’m going to leave my son’s care in someone else’s hands.” Then living in New York, Terry got her daycare license and learned that “your calling is your calling for a reason.” Now as a full-fledged business owner, she’s feeling successful and grateful that she just didn’t give up on the path she was destined to take. 22

Goodwill Compounds Terry feels that faith and compassion are her greatest strengths and that these strengths have been essential in not only successfully caring for a child with health challenges, but also with raising two children alone. Now that her children are 21 and 28 years old, she feels this is a rewarding time in her life and that her family continues to blossom. After graduating from a private Atlanta college, her daughter is now living in Hong Kong with her husband and Terry’s beautiful granddaughter. Her son is thankfully employed and is becoming a man in his own right. Terry is proud and she’s grateful and knows that her passion and concern have helped her spread the goodwill message to everything she does. This message builds and repeats each time Terry makes a difference in the community by serving those in need.

The Last Word Spending time with Terry is like embracing a strong but quiet presence. Wanting to know more about her comes naturally so we asked a few questions to help us understand her awe-inspiring volunteer journey.

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You really seem to enjoy volunteering Terry. Why? My compassion is what gives me the drive to volunteer. I enjoy volunteering - not just because it makes me feel good but because I was once in the shoes of those in need. If it hadn’t been for someone else’s compassion and caring when I was 21 with my daughter’s first Christmas looming, she would have had nothing from me that year. We were adopted by a generous family through Social Services and it was a feeling of gratitude that could not be described. What keeps you motivated on challenging days? I still do have challenging days, but the support of my family keeps me going strong. As a family, no matter what we all are going through...even with each other; we always have each other’s backs. What’s been your most rewarding volunteer experience with Classy Living Society? The most rewarding volunteer experience for me so far has got to be, without a doubt -- Hope Thru Soap. We provided basic hygiene necessities such as towels and showers for those who didn’t have the luxury of such an essential need. What impresses you most about CLS? What do you truly like about this organization? I love the fellowship of Classy Living Society more than anything. The spirit and strength of every woman I’ve met in CLS is amazing. It takes a certain strength of character to want to give back, even when you think you have nothing to give and that’s what these women have...strength of character.

Where do you see life taking you in the next five years? In the next five years, I see myself working with children and childcare centers in a different capacity. I hope to start a business as a daycare event planner, where I offer team building experiences, awards ceremonies, exciting field trips, etc. I haven’t heard of a business like this but it’s been on my heart for a few years now. Do you feel that the mission/vision of CLS is compatible with your beliefs and needs? The mission/vision of CLS definitely fits my beliefs and needs. I am not above anyone and I’m never “too good” to give of myself. I love the sisterhood bonding and the CLS caring. This sisterhood is built on making a difference and paving a way for change. That’s what’s in the air with every volunteer opportunity I’ve participated in. I’m so proud that I’m a member of a women’s volunteer organization that’s earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award. What’s given you the greatest personal satisfaction? My greatest personal satisfaction, after motherhood; has been realizing my worth with my business while maintaining my compassion and integrity. What else interests you besides volunteering? If watching television and dancing by myself are interests, then there you go! I also love to read.

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Terry is both excited and humble when she speaks of being honored as the Member Spotlight in this issue of the Classy Chronicles. She feels energized for the chapters that are yet to be written in her life and looks forward to enacting real change and positively influencing the lives of others. Terry believes that the promises of tomorrow can be seen today and that is why she is thankful that Classy Living Society pulled her in and will never let her go!

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THE CLASSY WOMAN READS “No One is Coming to Save Us” By: Kimberly Snoddy George

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The Classy Woman Reads Book Club and Loose Change Initiative kicked off its first gathering of 2018 on Saturday, March 10. Making connections between the storyline and characters in the novel, “No One is Coming to Save Us” by author and professor, Stephanie Powell Watts was quite intriguing. “The emotional heart of Watts’ novel actually lies in the vexed relationships between Ava and her mother, Sylvia, and between each of these women and their detached and wandering husbands.” (Bookpage, p. 14, April 2017). During our discussion, the book club members in attendance agreed that it was somewhat difficult to connect with the novel in the beginning with the introduction of characters and how they related to one another. We all determined we would have preferred an alternate ending to Ms. Powell Watts’ first debut novel. Ms. Watts is well known for short stories and has recently shared an excerpt from “We are Taking Only What We Need.” The Classy Woman Reads Book Club members have decided that we will read a page-turner mystery next time. The novel will be announced soon. Join us! Classy Woman Reads is a book club comprised of CLS members who discuss selected books at quarterly gatherings. The gatherings are held in various locales to accommodate our nationwide membership with the goal to present an annual national collaborative meeting. Classy Woman Reads Book Club is designed to inspire women to think outside the box, socialize with like-minded women and READ!

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The Desire to Be Thin Understanding the True Dangers of Eating Disorders By Erica Hudson PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS

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n my private practice, I have been treating clients with eating disorders for over 10 years. Out of all the mental health disorders that I treat, i.e. depression, anxiety, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety disorders, eating disorders: • Are the most difficult to treat; • Most likely require long term inpatient treatment. • Have the highest mortality rate.

What are eating disorders? BINGE EATING A condition that occurs when a person compulsively overeats large amounts of food within a two-hour period without eliminating the food through purging or laxatives. (APA, 2013) ANOREXIA NERVOSA A condition that occurs when a person refuses to maintain weight at or above his or her normal weight, out of a fear of becoming fat, and is in denial about being underweight. (APA, 2013) BULIMIA NERVOSA A condition that occurs when a person engages in excessive binging, lacks control over food, shows dissatisfaction with body shape and weight, and uses compensatory behaviors, which includes misuse of laxatives, self-induced vomiting, diuretics, and excessive exercising, to eliminate food. (APA, 2013) 29

Eating disorders are very serious and can impact women, men, boys, girls, and all races, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. Therefore, it is so important to seek treatment as soon as you realize there might be a problem for you, or for someone you know. Issues with body image, comparing one’s body to someone else, excessive exercising, counting all calories, hiding food, feeling ashamed, restricting food, purging, and binging are all signs that someone is suffering from an eating disorder. Repeating these behaviors over a long period of time can result in depression, as well as physical health issues such as: • • • • • • • • • •

Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) Risk of heart attack Malnutrition Anemia Hair loss Tooth decay Kidney and stomach damage Shortness of breath Dizziness and headaches Death

These factors make eating disorders the most dangerous mental health disorder to treat as a healthcare professional, as people are starving themselves to death and engaging in disordered eating behaviors that impact their overall health. For example, a young girl who has been restricting food for years and is below her body mass index and continues to refuse to eat may suffer from cardiac arrest.

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Other Facts and Statistics It is estimated that 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States have an eating disorder. (NEDA, 2016) Anorexia is the third most common chronic disease among young people, after asthma and Type 1 diabetes. (NEDA, 2016) Mood disorders, such as depression, are commonly found in persons who suffer from eating disorders. (NEDA, 2016) African-Americans, Asians, and Hispanics in the United States with similar rates of eating disorders are least likely to seek/receive help for eating disorders. (NEDA, 2016) Girls as young as 8 years old suffer from eating disorders. Males make up 40% of those who suffer from binge eating disorders.

Are you or anyone who know may be suffering with an eating disorder? If so, please contact me for further assistance or your local physician or therapist.

References: American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. National Eating Disorders Association https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

Erica Hudson, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS Women Recovery and Counseling Services, LLC Telephone: 404-926-6311 Email: womenrcs@gmail.com 31

Concessionaire Mixer Women in Business

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CLS strives to promote and empower its member’s businesses on a local and national level. Classy Concessionaires is a division within the CLS Biz Zone dedicated to supporting and developing the growth of member businesses through networking, promotion and patronage. CLS presents special private events for its Classy Concessionaires, as well as a monthly spotlight for one chosen member entrepreneur -- these are just a few of the perks that make being a part of the CLS family an advantageous opportunity. On March 3, 2018, a number of Concessionaires and special guests enjoyed an afternoon of networking, learning and more at the CLS Concessionaire Mixer held at the Metropolitan Branch Library in Atlanta. The women in business were treated to a 45-minute workshop provided by Nina Thomas (Socially Nina) on Business Marketing. “Socially Nina” Thomas is an entrepreneurial marketing influencer and the CEO and founder of LearnedIt.online, an online training hub for small businesses, and the “not-so-tech-savvy” entrepreneur. She takes entrepreneurs through a step-by-step process to engage, grow and profit with social media tools. For more information on Socially Nina Thomas, visit her website at http://sociallynina.com In addition, CLS’ spotlight Concessionaire, Patina Copeland Rivers provided tips about her business in travel (Dream Travels). Read about Patina and Dream Travels in our Concessionaire Spotlight article!

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Concessionaire Spotlight Patina Copeland Rivers

Dream Travels by Patina

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lassy Living Society has proudly chosen one of its member business owners as a Classy Concessionaire Spotlight - Ms. Patina Rivers Copeland, businesswoman, entrepreneur and Founder and Owner of DREAM TRAVELS BY PATINA. Who is the dynamic woman behind Dream Travels by Patina? Classy Chronicles had the opportunity to sit down with Patina -- a lovely woman with a warm and friendly demeanor and a big, friendly smile!

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How did you get started in the travel business and why? My first memorable international travel experience was a 7-Day Cruise to the Caribbean at the age of 21. I immediately became addicted to the cultural differences. A few years later, as an adult, I was fortunate to travel with my father to Lulea, Sweden. The vacation reshaped my outlook on life, decision-making, and perspective on how I wanted to live my life. I never looked at travel the same again! Fast-forward, after countless vacations to the Caribbean, I was introduced to the travel business through multi-level marketing. The idea of making money in an industry that I possessed a natural passion for made sense. Multi-level marketing gave me the opportunity to travel more for less, learn about the industry, build lifelong relationships and partnerships, and learn the power of leveraging in business. Five years later, I own a host travel agency -- Dream Travels by Patina. Dream Travels by Patina is a group of home-based agents who have a passion for travel and who enjoy helping others create life experiences. It started as a hobby, and became my passion, and eventually a lucrative business. Today, I dream of traveling to Cologne and Koblenz, Germany along the Rhine River on a luxury river cruise, and taking in Elba, a small Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea’s Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Why not love the life that you live? Lifestyle is a choice! Tell us a little bit about your journey - what has been your best and brightest moments? Any awards, special accolades? 2016-2017: I became qualified to earn International Air Transportation and Association (IATA) Card. Qualifications met were based on total commission earned in a year. The IATA is the top travel industry credential. 2017: I was recognized as Top 100 Xstream Travel Agent. 2017: I earned Meetings and Events at Sea Certificate presented by Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) and Meeting Professionals International. 2017: Proudly established Dream Travels By Patina as a host travel agency, recognized by CLIA. 36

2017 and 2018: Recognized by Classy Living Society in the Classy Concessionaires Spotlight for Entrepreneurship two years in a row! 2018: Achieved the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) Accredited Cruise Counsellor (ACC) Designation and acknowledged as a premiere travel agent and expert in the industry. What do you think sets you apart from your competitors/peers and why do you feel doing what you do is a special contribution to the world? Dream Travels by Patina, a full-service travel agency and a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Our destination planning services will take care of your weekend getaways, including a customized itinerary. Services also include cruise, air, car, hotel, rail, condo rentals, passport services, and attractions at your destination of choice. Dream Travels by Patina always strives for complete customer satisfaction. We are a group of professional travel agents who specialize in finding the best deals and rates for every client’s specific requirements. We rely on our industry experience, vendor knowledge, and longstanding industry relationships to ensure your travel experience surpasses your expectations. Whether planning an individual or group vacation, or a trip around the world, we have covered it all. We value our customers and believe in adding value by building personal relationships with each client, which allows us to better understand their unique needs. We want our clients to have their own unique travel experience. Whatever your travel needs are, we’re here to help.

Anything else you’d like to add that you’d like everyone to know about you and your business. Finding time to relax when you have your own business is challenging. However, my most favorite thing to do is travel. The beach is my first choice for relaxation. I’m your typical beach bum. All I need is sunscreen, a book, my journal and my beverage of choice. I need that time to decompress so that I can be my best me.

I can imagine there are many special special trips you’ve helped plan that stand out among the norm. Can you tell us about a couple of them? It’s fairly simple to book a standard tour for someone to Europe. However, when a client requests a specific customized itinerary to Europe, sometimes it presents challenges. The vacation began in Amsterdam where my clients flew to Paris, France. While in Paris, they enjoyed the historic monuments, impressive museums and cafes. They particularly loved the fact that their boutique hotel was within walking distance of Eiffel Tower. From Paris, they traveled First Class via the Euro Rail to London, United Kingdom. In London, they took a river cruise and they experienced Harrods, a luxury store that every woman should experience in this lifetime. In addition, they were able to see a lot of the city on the Original Bus Tour. I highly recommend the London Original Bus Tour if you only have one or two days in the city. During their flight from London to Rome, my clients were able to capture a picture of the Swiss Alps from the friendly skies. A view that many only dream about from over 10,000 feet in the air. To say the least, Rome was their favorite destination. It was more like a taste of Italy for them. They embraced everything from spaghetti and lobster cuisine, to experiencing the Colosseum in person. They cannot wait to get back to Rome! Personally, I found joy when I saw picture of my clients in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the London Eye. That’s why I love travel. The one thing that no one can take from you is the experience of living in the moment.

My second most favorite thing is to have quiet time with God and to journal my thoughts. I find comfort in pen and paper. I have multiple journals for various personal and professional reasons. Journaling has given me a freedom of expression that is better than speaking my mind. The majority of my best breakthroughs have come through writing. I’ve learned that when things don’t make sense, it’s time to scribble! Lastly, I find comfort in cooking and baking because of the traditions of my family. I was raised on a farm with my grandparents, and they believed in eating from the land. My fondest childhood memories include large family gatherings where the food came straight out of my grandparents’ garden. Sunday’s dinner was the best. Every Sunday my grandmother would cook two types of meat, two vegetables, two starches and make koolaid or iced tea. There was something about her fried chicken, collard greens and potato salad that would make everything okay. In other words, food is a part of my history and I embrace it wholeheartedly.

To contact or for more information on Dream Travels by Patina: Dream Travels by Patina P.O. Box 391985 Snellville, GA 30078 Website: www.DreamTravelsByPatina.com IG: @DreamTravelsBypatina FB: @DreamTravelsByPatina Phone: 678-580-0041 37

Community Outreach

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It’s a new year and Classy Living Society hit the ground running working hard on amazing volunteer opportunities in the community. 39

January Books for Africa CLS kicked off their year of volunteering by returning to the Books for Africa’s warehouse to sort and pack books according to category and age level. Books for Africa is the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent, shipping over 40 million books to 53 different countries since 1988. Volunteers work in their warehouses in Minnesota and Georgia to collect, sort, ship and distribute books to students of all ages in Africa. Their mission and goal is to end the book famine in Africa. Over the past 12 months we have shipped three million books, 93 computers and e-readers containing 223,000 digital books, as well as 10 new law and human rights libraries to 18 African countries. More than $2.5 million was raised last year to ship the books to the students of Africa. Books For Africa believes that education is the great equalizer in the world, and books are at the foundation of a strong educational system. Access to an education is one of the only opportunities young people have to end the cycle of poverty and attain a better quality of life than previous generations. CLS is honored to once again assist Books for Africa in their global effort to ensure an education to those in need. Books for Africa is a Hands On Atlanta project.

MLK Day Meal Delivery at Open Hand On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service this year, CLS assisted Open Hand Atlanta to package meals and/or drive meal delivery routes. Open Hand is a nonprofit organization that provides nutrition care for a diverse population of men, women and children with unique nutrition needs. They have programs and services designed to help clients meet their personal goals and objectives for good health and to assist clients and healthcare providers in the early identification and treatment, as well as the prevention or progression of many nutritionsensitive illnesses. Their programs provide a combination of home-delivered meals and nutrition education as a means to reinforce the connection between informed food choices and improved quality of life. On the day set aside for service, CLS provided a hand up for the elderly citizens of metro Atlanta, packing and delivering meals with love.

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Farmers Market Set-up CLS volunteers were on hand on the third Saturday of each month at the Freedom Farmers Market to unload market supplies and assist the market’s vendors, information booth and others in their set-up duties. Located at the Carter Center in Downtown Atlanta, Freedom Farmers Market is a year-round market that was formed in 2014 by a small group of Georgia farmers. The market offers fresh produce, grass fed meats, handmade food items like pasta and preserves, baked goods, coffees and more. They have one vision in mind - to bring local, sustainably grown food to intown Atlanta neighborhoods. CLS has partnered with Freedom Farmers Market in conjunction with CLS Cares, CLS’ “go green” initiative. For more information the market, visit their website at https://www.freedomfarmersmkt.org

Kashi Atlanta Street Meals Preparation Kashi Atlanta is a local ashram that is the extension of the Kashi Yoga Ashram in Sebastian, Florida. They also have centers in Los Angeles and New York. CLS partnered with Kashi Atlanta in their community outreach program on January 23. Kashi Atlanta’s longest running community service mission, or seva, which means selfless service, is their Ma’s Street Meals. Each week, their community service team prepares and serves meals to the homeless. CLS volunteers brushed up on their culinary skills and chopped vegetables and cooked for the meal. It was indeed a privilege to assist them in their mission to prepare and serve food with a dose of love added in.

Grace Community Food Pantry Grace Community Food Pantry is a project of Hands On Atlanta. The mission of the project is to involve, educate, and unite people in the work of ending hunger in the Atlanta area. CLS served as pantry volunteers on January 27. Their duties included sorting food items and stocking the shelves of the food pantry. In addition, they organized and unpacked delivered food items, ensuring the freshness of same, and monitoring quality before storing on the appropriate shelves. 41

February Crime Victims Deserve Equal Voice Day at the Georgia Capitol CLS members, with many others, converged upon the Georgia Capitol on February 1 for Crime Victims Deserve an Equal Voice Day to show their support for the enactment of Marsy’s Law. If put into place, Marsy’s Law would protect victims from coming in contact with their perpetrators and victims would be notified when perpetrators were released on bond or paroled. Attendees participated in a short forum followed by a photo with the Governor of Georgia and an opportunity to speak with elected officials to encourage them to support equal constitutional rights for crime victims in Georgia. 42

AG Rhodes Senior Center Mardi Gras for the Residents February is Mardis Gras time! A.G. Rhodes Senior Center hosted a Mardi Gras party for the residents and CLS members arrived to assist in the festivities. Members assisted with party set up and helped transport residents to/from the party. More importantly, members socialized and spent time with the residents at the party, making sure a great time was had by all. CLS members volunteer regularly at the AG Rhodes Senior Center. One of the first nursing organizations in Atlanta, AG Rhodes Senior Center is dedicated to delivering compassionate and high-quality care to our short-term and long-term residents.

Georgia’s Anti-Sex Trafficking Lobby Day Bringing awareness to human and sex trafficking is one of the causes CLS is truly passionate about. So, on February 20, CLS volunteers reported for duty to assist at Georgia’s Anti-Sex Trafficking Lobby Day at the Georgia Freight Depot. Volunteers assisted on buses, at registration, helped with t-shirt sales, coordinated lunch, and lead groups across to the Capitol building. Anti-Sex Trafficking Lobby Day is held annually and sponsored by Street Grace, an Atlantabased, faith-driven organization collaborating with faith, business and community leaders providing a comprehensive path to end domestic minor sex trafficking in metro Atlanta and throughout the United States Georgia’s Anti-Sex Trafficking Lobby Day is an opportunity to stand with other community members, advocates, and elected officials to show support for legislation protecting children and adults from sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as a time to thank our legislators for their hard work and commitment toward the issue. https://www.streetgrace.org 43

Chairish the Future Furniture Bank Gala CLS volunteers assisted at the Chairish the Future Gala at the Foundry at Puritan Mill in Atlanta on February 23. Benefiting the Furniture Bank of Atlanta, the gala patrons enjoyed libations, delectable bites, live music and painting exhibits. The gala guests also participated in silent and live auctions, and the bidding was on custom-designed furniture pieces and artwork by local and nationally renowned artists and design firms. Donned in black or cocktail attire, the volunteers greeted attendees, directed guests, cleared tables, and assisted the event coordinators in other miscellaneous duties. The mission of the Furniture Bank is to recycle gently-used furniture collected from the community and giving it to individuals and families moving out of homelessness and fleeing domestic violence, as well as countless others struggling to make ends meet. http://furniturebankatlanta.org/

Atlanta Community Food Bank On February 24, CLS volunteered at the Atlanta Community Food Bank at their food warehouse. CLS foot soldiers inspected and packed food and other essentials (along with a dose of love) to serve “food insecure” families. And the hard work of the day paid off: along with other volunteers in attendance that day, we packed a whopping 11,746 pounds of items -- which boils down to 8482 meals!!! Each year, Atlanta Community Food Bank works with more than 600 nonprofit partners—including food pantries, community kitchens, childcare centers, night shelters and senior centers—to distribute over 60 million meals to more than 755,000 people in 29 counties across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Their mission is to fight hunger by engaging, educating and empowering our community. https://acfb.org/

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Adopt-A-School: Paul D. West Middle School

March

CLS continued its efforts at the Paul D. West Middle School on March 10. Volunteers set about painting, planting flowers in various areas around the building, planting an herb garden and a blackberry bush. Spring has Sprung at the Paul D. West Middle School! The school is located in East Point, Georgia and is led by Dr. Darrell Stephens, Principal.

Bike Valet Freedom Farmers Market at the Carter Center Volunteers from CLS were once again at the Freedom Farmers Market - this time serving as bike valets. The ladies were charged with the task of helping customers use the special bike racks on hand by valeting their bikes.

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Publix Georgia Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K CLS had the pleasure of assisting at the Publix Georgia Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K on March 18. Twenty-seven dedicated volunteers and guests arose quite early for a 4:30 a.m. arrival time. The volunteers supported and manned the hydration station in the Ponce de Leon/Freedom Parkway area - keeping the runners hydrated and pumping them up with victory cheers! Sponsored by the Atlanta Track Club for the 12th year, this marathon is one of the southeast’s premier distance events. The Atlanta Track Club is a member-based organization centered around running that delivers world-class events, training programs and community outreach activities to the Metro Atlanta Area. They are committed to creating an active and healthy Atlanta. https://www.atlantatrackclub.org/mission

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Truly Living Well: Saturdays at Collegetown On March 24, CLS assisted Hands On Atlanta in their Truly Living Well Project. Volunteers worked together on the following tasks: • Fill produce beds with soil, plant seedlings, water and weed. • Mulch designated areas with wood chips. • Process, sift and stage compost. • May help harvest, weigh, and bundle produce for farmers markets. • Assist with light landscaping, cutting small trees and growth in detention pond area. Truly Living Well (TLW) works to engage the community in developing local food systems and demonstrating urban agriculture as a sustainable solution for helping people to eat and live better. It is our mission to grow better communities by connecting people with the land through education and training. Volunteers will be working together to complete farm tasks in order to keep the farm operating at peak level and its herbs and plants flourishing.

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Go Green CLS Cares 9 Tips for Living with Less Plastic

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hrough its green initiative, CLS Cares, CLS is committed to preserving our environment by providing resources for carpooling/ridesharing to member events, recycling, adopting local roads, gardening and urban sustainability. CLS is an environmentally conscious organization that makes “going green� a priority. Less Plastic is a family-owned organization in the U.K. In 2015, they developed a program to rid their local beaches of an endless tide of plastic washing up on their shores. Plastic pollution is also a huge problem in the United States. It is important to recycle plastic for this very reason -- however, we are offering 9 tips for living with less plastic! Take some tips from our friends in the U.K. Resource: https://lessplastic.co.uk/ 49

Atlanta GLOW Growing Leadership of Women Meet

Ashlie James

Founder and Director

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fter years of witnessing young adults, particularly low-income young women and minorities, struggle with the college admission process, and connecting that with her own experience as a young adult, the Founder and Director of Atlanta GLOW, Ashlie James, realized that low-income students who wanted to attend college received little or no guidance about how to get there or even what to do when they do. She also discovered that most of these students were hungry for information and eager to attend or succeed in college but were not aware of what resources were available to them to help them stay on track with their educational or professional goals. As a result of these deficits, Ashlie noticed many of these young women dropped out, had children, accepted minimum wage jobs, and settled for familiar low-income circumstances. While working on her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and receiving encouragement and informal mentoring from a group of women at her church, Ashlie started investigating programs and nonprofits that worked with low-income teens. She found many programs for elementary and middle school students, but few that supported high school or college-aged young adults. Thus, in January 2014, after earning degrees in ministry and nonprofit management, Ashlie created a program to address the widespread community needs she had observed, including the need for economic stimulus, engaged youth leaders, and support services for students up to age 25. That program was Atlanta GLOW (Growing Leadership of Women). 51

Atlanta Glow is a holistic college and career prep program that focuses on college access and success, student life, leadership, service, and professional advancement. They work with students both in high school and college and continuing into their careers and beyond to ensure lifelong success for themselves and their communities. Its mission is to encourage, educate and equip young, low-income women to be thriving, self-sustaining leaders and effective agents of economic growth within their communities. Poverty reduction can potentially be one of the greatest boosts to economic growth in America. This is why early intervention in the lives of women and girls is essential, primarily through the promotion of education (whether traditional or non-traditional), because like long-term poverty, productivity can also have generational impact. Since job prospects multiply with every level of school completed, many issues that trap women in generational poverty can be alleviated by a good education. Better jobs bring more income and, consequently, widens the field of options for housing, transportation, child care and healthcare. However, informal education is also important – teaching women and girls their own self-worth and the life skills they need in order to succeed, such as financial literacy, life planning, and decision-making skills.

It is with this vantage point that Atlanta GLOW attempts to break the cycle of generational poverty for women and girls in metro Atlanta, by taking a holistic view of the factors contributing to it, and emphasizing prevention through longterm systemic change.​Through one-on-one and group mentoring initiatives, summer workshops, and quarterly training opportunities focusing on college and career readiness, we help prepare more and more young women to make positive transitions into post-secondary education, entrepreneurship and/or their early career. 52

Ashlie is a native of Chicago, Illinois and has lived in the Atlanta area for 22 years. Married and with one child on the way, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Ministry and a Master of Arts degree in Management and Leadership. As a nonprofit leader, Ashlie’s day-to-day interactions are often filled with administrative, accounting, organizational and development tasks. Like so many other leaders, it might be easy to lose sight of Atlanta Glow’s mission because of the routine duties and tasks. However, Ashlie remains focused and intentional about staying close to grassroots efforts by being heavily involved in the organization’s youth think tanks and program survey administration. She also participates in regular check-in calls to the young adults they serve, and their parents and mentors. It is important to gauge how the programs are working for them and to provide continued and consistent guidance. Staying grounded this way is personally motivating to Ashlie because it allows her the opportunity to hear success stories and not get blinded or overwhelmed by only hearing about escalated challenges. And there are success stories, indeed! On a late afternoon after a long chain of backto-back meetings, Ashlie noticed that she had a missed call from a number she did not recognize. When she listened to the voicemail, she could not make out the message. However, one thing was for sure; the caller had been crying. Concerned, she listened to the call over a dozen times over the next two days trying to make out something that would tell her who had called and the reason they were crying. Finally, she made out one phrase: “I just need somebody to talk to.” Immediately, she dialed the number, still unsure who it was, but worried that she had not called back or made out this phrase soon enough to help. She discovered that the caller was a teenage mother, not yet enrolled in any of Atlanta GLOW’s programs, but had been referred by a youth worker at her sister’s church almost a year ago, a time when her circumstances weren’t such that she could call. However, on the particular day that she was able to call, she was sitting on the ground at a MARTA train station after losing her job, without one coin to go anywhere. It was in that moment that she decided she needed Atlanta GLOW, and made the call.

Some time after graduating our mentoring program and receiving other supplemental services through Atlanta GLOW and neighboring nonprofits, this young lady went on to not only enroll in culinary school, but graduate and find stable employment and housing. She has hope for the future and stays in touch with the Atlanta GLOW team to share her ambitions and plans for herself and her young daughter. There are also successes for Atlanta Glow - the organization is the recipient of the following awards and accolades: • Nonprofit Executive of the Year Award Nominee, ACHI Women Supporting Women Association, Inc. in March 2018 • Rising in Community Excellence Award Nominee, The RICE Awards, in August 2017 • Nonprofit Executive and Community Leader of the Year Award Nominee, ACHI Women Supporting Women Association, Inc. in March 2017 • Woman Who Worships Award Honoree, Women Who Worship Awards, in March 2017

What’s coming up in the future for Atlanta GLOW? They are hosting their annual Young Women’s Leadership Conference (YWLC) on July 7, 2018 at the Mansour Conference Center in Marietta, Georgia. YWLC brings together leading professionals from all over Atlanta including entrepreneurs, educators, trailblazers in the corporate and philanthropic sectors, and government and civic leaders with the ultimate goal of encouraging, educating, and equipping young women to be thriving, self-sustaining leaders and effective agents of economic growth in their communities. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to participate in developmental workshops that build upon their enthusiasm for community change by equip them with the skills needed to gain sustainability through post-secondary education and career advancement, build influence and local capacity, and work with government to bring about valuable changes to their community. Atlanta GLOW is a 100% volunteer-based organization and they cannot provide excellence in their quest to assist young women and girls without a strong community of volunteers and supporters who carry a passion and dedication to their mission. The organization’s areas of greatest need include volunteer mentors, advisory board members, and monetary donations to support programming such as group mentoring events, scholarships, college and career workshops, and upkeep for their professional clothing closet. For more information on this amazing organization, please visit their website at https://www.atlantaglow.org.

Atlanta Growing Leadership of Women PO Box 670653 Marietta, GA 30066 EIN: 35-2234918 Visit us online at www.atlantaglow.org

GIVE HOPE IN 2018

with your tax-deductible gift of $25 or more! Text any amount to 404-948-4456 or give online at https://womensnpa.givingfuel.com/atlanta-glow 53

Classy Happenings CLASSY LIVING SOCIETY has some new and exciting things happening now and over the next few months!

Read on! 54

CLS’ New Website Have you checked out Classy Living Society’s website lately? Well, if you have, you were probably wondering “What’s different? Did they paint the walls in this room with glossy new colors?” Or “Wow, I think they bought a brand new wardrobe!” No, it’s just our new and improved, bright and shiny updated webpage! The look and feel of the website after the facelift provides our visitors with a cleaner, more reader friendly and engaging experience! Go ahead... visit us now at http://cls-volunteer.org.

Volunteer Week! Volunteer Week is coming - April 15 through April 21! As an opening ceremony, Classy Living Society will present Laundry Love - a Day of Clean Clothes on April 15. CLS will work in partnership with Laundry Love and open the doors of Cozy Clean Laundry to invite those in need to come out and launder their clothing. Laundry Love is an organization that partners with local laundromats to clean the clothes and linens of low-income or no-income families and individuals. They see the laundromat as a place where strangers become friends, kids are known by name, hope is being hustled, and the worth of every human being is acknowledged and celebrated. (http://laundrylove.org/). The Love Donation for the event consists of a laundry basket containing laundry detergent and fabric softener for the individuals and families to wash their items during the event and to take home. There will be food for the families who come to clean their garments and linens, music and fun and CLEAN CLOTHES!

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CLS Travels Counting down! Classy Living Society will be traveling to the beautiful beaches of Santa Barbara, California in August! Through CLS Travels, CLS is sponsoring a luxurious journey to one of California’s most popular vacation and resort destinations! If you have ever attended an outing or trip organized by CLS, you already know this trip will be nothing less than first-class! At the time this goes to print, there may be only a couple of slots left to purchase! While in Santa Barbara, CLS will also be on a special giving back mission. We will be partnering with local non-profit organizations to extend our reach as foot soldiers in the community to the Santa Barbara area. In keeping with our responsibility to be the change we want to see in the world, we will be assisting those organizations in furthering their worthy causes in the areas of girl/ women empowerment, domestic violence, homelessness and human trafficking to name a few. Visit the website (link provided below) to learn about this spectacular experience, and how you can join in! But hurry, there may only be a few open slots remaining! www.CLSTravels.com

Chronicles Too! In case you didn’t know, this lovely magazine you are feasting your eyes on at present - the CLASSY CHRONICLES - is CLS’ official magazine - an online quarterly that features non-profit organizations, CLS volunteer efforts and events, inspirational stories, health, wellness, beauty and fitness tips, business and finance information, and much much more. The CLS website has over 1000 visitors per month and our magazine subscription reaches over 70,000 digital subscribers/viewers and growing. Because of the Classy Chronicles’ phenomenal success, CLS would like to introduce a very exciting new exciting concept...

Welcome to Chronicles Too! Chronicles Too! is CLS’s brand new media venture - an online magazine which will feature amazing nonprofit organizations, awesome businesses and business owners, people doing great things in the community and more. Stay tuned for the Chronicles Too! launch very soon!

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CLS Turns Five In just a few short months, in the month of May, Classy Living Society will celebrate our fifth anniversary! And we will be celebrating all year - with special giving back initiatives, social events and other festivities, including a special Red Dress Gala to celebrate Five Years of Giving. Watch out for news and other forthcoming information about our fifth anniversary celebration!

Red Dress Gala V.I.P. Tickets Coming Soon! As mentioned, this year marks CLS Fifth Year Anniversary and the Red Dress Gala will be bigger and better this year! Stay tuned for details regarding special V.I.P. tables - follow all of the classy news about this event at http://cls-reddress.org!

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CLS Goes Fresh Beauty & Bubbles at IWI Fresh Garden Day Spa By Janine Lattimore

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“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn

n the heart of the historic Castleberry Hill Art District of Atlanta, lies a place filled with lush greenery, eclectic fixtures and fresh, delectable smells. Is it a restaurant, you ask? No, it’s a fresh garden day spa where a “skincare chef” whips up all natural skincare products. It’s the IWI Fresh Garden Day Spa and Classy Living Society hosted a Beauty & Bubbles event for its members at the spa on March 25. Members chose from a menu of “garden services” - veggie facials, veggie nail services and signature herbal massages. They also offer men’s services - hot shaves, haircuts, and beard care - all performed using organic products. My service was the herbal massage. I was directed to choose from the fresh combination of aromatherapy oils for my massage and I chose a combination of “hot buttered grits” (which, by the way, smelled so buttery and sweet, I wanted to eat it) and the cucumber lavender. All of the other services provided at the spa include the use of organic, all natural ingredients. For example, the veggie facial consists of the use of raw vegetables, fruits, and herbs that penetrate and hydrate the skin. They also use a combination of squash, blueberries, flaxseed, grits, honey, carrots, spinach, and lettuce. It’s a fresh salad for the face! The natural products at IWI are concocted by the skincare chef using raw products straight from the farm, with no extras or harsh chemicals. And who is the skincare chef? Yolanda Owens, owner of IWI Fresh Garden Spa, inspired by her grandmother’s self-made home remedies and not fond of the idea of using harsh, manufactured products on her skin, began to produce her own line of skincare recipes and organic beauty creams for herself and her friends. Though she never imagined these recipes would one day launch her into celebrity status as an all-natural “skincare chef,” she did believe that fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and essential oils were the only ingredients suitable for a healthy, beautiful body. (https:// www.iwifresh.com/our-story/) IWI Fresh products are also available for sale - at the spa and at the Whole Foods Market on Ponce De Leon Ave in Atlanta.

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The event was in keeping with CLS Cares, CLS’ go green initiative and was an eco-friendly event. The women mingled while receiving their services, munching on delicious fruits and snacks and sipping bubbly. Several Savannah chapter sisters made the trip to Atlanta for the event, and all four of the Founding Sisters of CLS were in attendance! Lai Cooper of Enhance by Lai (see the article about her in this issue!) was on hand to give the ladies a live tutorial on how to apply natural daytime makeup and how to quickly convert it into an evening look. A henna artist was also there, doing beautiful and creative henna art on the ladies’ hands.

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It was good to socialize in the lush greenness of IWI Garden Fresh Spa and a wonderful opportunity for the ladies to pamper themselves. Self-care is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves; it is important to press our reset button every once in a while. People, especially women, often forget to do nice things for themselves, but will always remember, or go out of their way, to do things for others.

While it certainly doesn’t mean we shouldn’t give back or make sure everyone else is okay, why not also do that for ourselves? I believe it was said best by CLS member and Founding Sister Tarrah Smith - when you take time out of your busy schedule and never-ending list of responsibilities to take care of yourself, you are in a much better position to take care of others. As members of a premier women’s community service organization in which volunteering and serving is a main priority, a day at the spa was the self-care regimen the doctor ordered and CLS’ day of Beauty & Bubbles at IWI Fresh Garden Spa was pure therapy and good fresh fun! 61

Classy Living Society www.cls-volunteer.org