Chamblee, GA September 2023

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At Nuts ‘n Berries Neighborhood Market

Your Non-GMO Grocery Store Next Door.

Nuts ‘n Berries is more than your favorite health food store. We’re your neighbors, too. For over 40 years we have proudly served the greater Brookhaven & Chamblee communities. Count on us for everything you need, from fairly priced local better-than-organic meat and eggs to premium vitamins & supplements to support your healthy lifestyle. We’re more than a grocery store – we’re your health partners. Guided by the belief that food is medicine, we’ll help you nourish your body with the right nutrients, and assist you in solving health puzzles, every step of the way. With 1,000’s of products you can feel good about, we’re close to home and dedicated to keeping you and our entire community healthy.

10% OFF next purchase in September when you mention our ad or shop online using code “CITYLIFE”

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Kevin Parker | kevin.parker@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Tana Poncsak | tana.poncsak@citylifestyle.com

Welcome to Chamblee City Lifestyle Magazine

Dear Readers,

Hi there! I’m Kevin Parker and I’m the publisher of Chamblee City Lifestyle Magazine. I’m SO excited to bring you a publication that focuses on our community. I’ve lived in the Chamblee area for over 10 years now, and I’m happy to call Chamblee my home. Our surrounding communities are excited about having become cities in the past 10+ years, but Chamblee has existed for more than 100 years, and our little train town is THRIVING!

Each month we’ll bring you the best that Chamblee has to offer, and we’ll introduce you to the people who live and work in Chamblee and help make it what it is today. These are your neighbors, your coworkers, your friends –those who help make Chamblee great – including the magazine’s founding partners who are in the community and giving back every day. I’m proud and honored to bring it all to you in Chamblee City Lifestyle Magazine – our home and our community.

And it’s about more than words on paper. It’s fun, informative, and your monthly access to all things Chamblee. And guess what? We’re just getting started! I hope you enjoy this first issue of Chamblee City Lifestyle Magazine and all the issues to follow. We’re looking forward to and excited to bring you the very best of Chamblee. We’ll see you around town!

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery

KEVIN PARKER, PUBLISHER @CHAMBLEECITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @chambleecitylifestyle

1: Chamblee Police Department gives away school supplies at the annual Cop-N-Stuff Back to School Bash! 2: Chamblee residents gather on the lawn for music and fun at Chamblee’s Summer Concert Series. 3: The Mad Italian celebrates 50 years with a weekend of food and fun! 4: Pretty in pink! Chamblee staff members celebrate the opening weekend of the “Barbie” movie. 5: Mixologists are hard at work at the Distillery of Modern Art. 6: Congratulations! Chamblee City Hall is the recipient of the 2023 CMAA SAC Project Achievement Award!

7: Chamblee residents rocked out as bands took to the stage for Chamblee’s Summer Concert Series.

LENNOX REID

KEVIN PARKER

CITY OF CHAMBLEE

TANA PONCSAK

LENNOX REID

LENNOX REID CITY OF CHAMBLEE

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Atlanta Golf & Social

Atlanta Golf & Social is a community-driven indoor golf facility that features a professional technology simulator and bar. Book time to practice on a state-ofthe-art simulator, attend an event, book a lesson, hold an event, or stop by to have a drink, visit with friends and neighbors, and catch a game or two.

Scan

The Mad Italian

If you’re thinking Italian, think The Mad Italian. The restaurant, owned and operated by Tom Brown since 1982, features classic Italian cuisine. And they just celebrated 50 years! Specialties include cheesesteaks, hoagies and pastas, and the restaurant offers a selection of beer and wine. Dine in, take out or have it delivered.

Scan to read more.

The Frosty Caboose

Looking for a cool treat on a hot day? Look no further than The Frosty Caboose! With 36 flavors to tickle your taste buds, the rich and creamy ice cream is locally made and includes non-dairy, gluten free, and egg free options as well. Try one of the seasonal flavors and watch for a train to roll through!

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Chamblee

Photography Tana Poncsak

Photography Tana Poncsak

Photography Tana Poncsak

Packed with Personality

A Chamblee home renovation finds beauty and function while reflecting a unique style and personality

ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA WEDGE

Susie Prince, owner of Susie Mae Design in Chamblee, has a knack for designing spaces and finds her joy in helping others create space that reflects their unique style and personality. “I absolutely adore working with my residential clients and creating a home that feels like them,” she says. Her approach is authentic – honoring the architecture of the home, while also honoring the client’s personal style.

Susie was approached by empty nesters living in an older, established neighborhood in the heart of Chamblee looking to remodel their midcentury modern, split-level home. Right away Susie noted that much of the house from the entryway to the kitchen was closed off. The lighting in the kitchen wasn’t good, and the storage was disjointed. The homeowners wanted to open things up so

that when someone was in the kitchen, they still felt a part of the group.

In the living space, it was important to create a setting where their dog could see the world outside. And the homeowners are art savvy with an extensive art collection that needed to be displayed.

Susie says it was clear from the beginning the homeowners were open-minded and trusted the design process. “They came to me with a vision,” she says.

As with any home renovation project, there can be challenges, and this project was no exception. The big challenge was finding ways of adding space when you’re not adding square footage – how to create more space within the area you’re working with?

Susie explains she accomplished this by closing off a wall in the kitchen. “It actually

After the renovation, the kitchen is brighter and functions better.

Before the renovation, the kitchen was dark and closed off.

The living area after the renovation is a better refection of the homeowners and their unique style and interests.

ended up making everything feel and function better,” she says. By closing it off, she added cabinet space and added to the size of the kitchen. She was also able to make the kitchen island large enough for the amount of seating needed without encroaching on the entryway or basement stairs.

Susie says the range in the kitchen was important to the project, as it serves as a focal point and makes the wall look different and interesting. And going from two windows to one large window in a slightly different location opens up the space while adding muchneeded light and allows the kitchen to function better.

In the living area, Susie added glass cabinets on the back wall to showcase the homeowners’ art collection, ample area for houseplants, and good seating for listening to the homeowners’ album collection.  And the television – Susie was able to lower the mantle and mount it so it’s less noticeable while the television is off, and the mount is moveable to make viewing more comfortable.

The renovation took place around the pandemic, so finding the right blend of materials and furnishings in the colors they wanted and that could be shipped was an added challenge.

In the end, Susie says the homeowners are pleased with the outcome. “It’s not always that you can check every box of the things that you want to do, but we accomplished all the wish list items,” Susie says. “They were able to get a beautiful range, a nice big sink, good natural light, and overall the house feels lighter and brighter, and that was something very important to them.”

While looking at social media and magazines, Susie mentions that it’s tempting to go with the latest trends, and she adds that it can be good for inspiration. But one thing that Susie stresses to her clients is that one person’s house shouldn’t look exactly like someone else’s. “People are different, and our houses should always be a reflection of ourselves,” Susie says. “It’s going to be beautiful for you for many years to come because it’s beautifully personal to you.”

For more information visit susiemaedesign.com.

The living area before the renovation lacks personality and style.

FROM TRAGEDY TO FITNESS

Jude Jean-Marie, owner and personal trainer of Energy Fitness Atlanta, grew up in Rahway, N.J., the youngest child of French Creole speaking Haitian immigrants. As a child, Jude was interested two things – church and sports.

After Jude’s father passed away, Jude’s mother moved to Georgia, and in 2013, Jude visited his mother and made Georgia his home. Jude recalls that his mother had supported him during many pivotal times in his life, including during a difficult heartbreak and a serious knee surgery. She was his help and comfort during his times of need. But tragically one evening in 2016 while visiting his mother, Jude watched as his mother suffered a heart attack. Despite doing all he could to save her, she died later that night in the hospital. After the loss of his mother, Jude fell into a deep depression and deep despair and found himself trying to eat his way through the darkness and grief. After gaining 30 pounds in 30 days, he’d had enough. He picked himself up and found health and fitness as a way to honor his mother and to help others in the community.

“There’s a lot of purpose that can come out of pain.” Jude Jean-Marie

A Chamblee personal trainer honors his mother’s legacy by getting fit and helping others

Jude Jean-Marie works out in his studio, Energy Fitness, located in the heart of Chamblee.

WHAT HAPPENED AFTER YOUR MOTHER’S HEART ATTACK?

I was just eating. I didn’t know I was an emotional eater. When people didn’t know what to say, they brought food. It was a nice gesture. But for me, I was consuming food for comfort, so they were enabling me without knowing it.

On my way to the store, I stopped at the gym where mom and I had memberships. With a burrito in hand, I went to the front desk to cancel her membership. When I went to leave, I felt paralyzed. There was a sign in the lobby for a 12-Week Challenge. I felt God telling me to do this challenge. So I finished my burrito and went back to the desk and said I’d like to join the challenge. They took a photo of me and I paid $40. Back in the car, I thought that if I can go the rest of my life without my mom, then I could do 12 weeks of exercising and eating clean for her. I did the challenge in her honor.

I started meal prepping, and I started working out. While exercising I looked like I was sweating, but tears were streaming from my eyes as I thought of my mom. I was working out, losing weight, and documenting my journey. By the end of 12 weeks, I’d lost 60 pounds, 23% body fat, and inches off my waist. It was a nationwide competition with 20,000 participants. I came in first place, and that’s where it all started for me.

HOW DID YOU GO FROM GETTING FIT TO BECOMING A PERSONAL TRAINER?

After growing up in church, helping religious organizations, and spending a lot of time praying, I realized I’ve learned about faith, family, finance, and fellowship at church, but I never learned anything about fitness. I wondered what the church body was doing about health and fitness. I started my company call BUFF – Believers United For Fitness. And it's my frustration that motivated the spark to open the training facility.

AND HOW ARE YOU FEELING AFTER YOUR TRANSFORMATION?

There’s a lot of purpose that can come out of pain. I’ve felt a new level of confidence. I’m also happy I can tell the story of my mom and her legacy. I want to revolutionize the fitness industry, and at Energy Fitness, we’re providing free life coaching with each membership because change is more than just physical change.

One of the hardest things you can do in the gym is a pull-up. And one of the hardest things to do in life is pull yourself up mentally. A workout lasts about 45 minutes and then you’re done. Most anyone can make it through a 45-minute workout. But there are certain struggles that last for 45 days, or 45 months, even 45 years that you’ve got to go through. What’s a 45 minute workout compared to that?

For more information, visit  energyfitnessatlanta.com.

Jude Jean-Marie realizes that helping others meet their fitness goals means more than just a physical change. It’s mental too.

Hosting the Perfect Dinner Party

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Your next event, served alfresco

Catering experts Chef Kyle and Hannah Williams, owners of Savor & Swirl culinary company, create an outdoor dinner party with chef-driven perennial dishes served in beautiful seasonal settings. For this alfresco dinner party, Chef Kyle draws on his favorite recipes updated for a modern palate and paired with wine selections to complement the bountiful feast.

Insider Tips for Hosting:

• Build a menu around the season. Start with what produce is available locally based on the season for the most authentic meal experience. For instance, Chef Kyle says “In November, people crave turkey, sage stuffing and cranberry sauce,” but that meal served in the heat of Summer wouldn’t hit the same. In-season fruits and vegetables will always be of highest quality and best taste.

• Always greet guests with a beverage and appetizers. “Offer champagne for wine-lovers or a sparkling drink or signature cocktail. It’s all about serving guests to the highest caliber,” Kyle says.

• Draw inspiration from the season’s colors and temperatures. For Spring and Summer, think flowers, fresh herbs and linens. For Fall, think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.” For Winter, head indoors to create a cozy environment for guests to connect.

• “You can’t go wrong with fresh flowers,” Hannah says, “but keep bouquets low to not interfere with conversation flowing. For fall, I like richer, jewel-toned florals to mix and match and keep whimsical. I vary glass vases with bur - nished brass for warm fall vibes.”

• An easy but thoughtful detail is to put a simple menu at each place setting, so guests know what to expect. “Add a pen, so guests can jot tasting notes, especially for wine pairings or multiple courses,” Hannah says. “Guests can share comments, then take the menu home as a sweet reminder of the event.”

• Follow the French principle of mise en place or everything in place before your event. “This is actually our company’s name,” Kyle says. “It’s that important to us. Make sure the wines are all open, cocktails are pre-made, place settings are out, candles are lit and music is playing. When guests arrive, it gives that wow-factor and shows you intentionally made them feel special.”

• To build confidence as a host, start small and practice. “Keep the menu and guest list small,” Kyle says. “Choose recipes you already have confidence in. If you make a great Beef Stroganoff, then go with that. People will love it!”

• As fun as it is to dine outside, always have an indoors back-up plan. “We’ve had to bring it indoors before,” Hannah says. “It’s still fun.” Insider Tips for Hosting: “Think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.”

Read on for some of Chef Kyle’s favorite recipes.

Fresh Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Hardwood Smoked Bacon

Yield: 6 servings

• 4 cups Brussels sprouts, raw, halved

• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup yellow onion, sliced

• 1 tablespoon garlic, sliced thin

• 1-2 cups bacon, smoked, thick cut, large dice

• Salt, pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons real butter, unsalted

• Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. Preheat oven to 400 °F for convection setting, (425 °F conventional).

2. In mixing bowl, add oil and cut raw Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Place seasoned sprouts on baking sheet and bake in oven until done, about 20-40 minutes (soft yet still with good texture and crispy edges with some dark brown color). Remove from oven.

4. Place large sauté pan on medium heat and render bacon. Add a splash of olive oil to get it going, if needed. Cook until bacon is crispy and golden brown, 5-10 minutes.

5. Add onions to pan and cook until soft, 5-8 minutes.

6. Turn heat to high and add garlic and butter and cook for 1 minute.

7. Add roasted Brussels sprouts to pan and toss all together. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

8. For optional garnishes, add fresh chopped parsley.

9. Serve and enjoy!

CHEF NOTES:

• If Brussels sprouts are large, cut in quarters.

• Rendering bacon means extracting the bacon fat which adds a lot of flavor to the dish.

Heirloom Root

Vegetable Hash

Yield: 6-10 servings

• 2 cups heirloom carrot, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom rutabaga, peeled, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom parsnip, cubed

• 1 cup heirloom turnip, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom marble potatoes, halved

• 3 tablespoons rosemary, fresh, de-stemmed, chopped

• 1 tablespoon thyme, fresh, de-stemmed, chopped

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt – to taste

• Pepper – to taste

• Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. Pre-heat oven to 400°F on convection setting (425°F conventional).

2. In mixing bowl, add oil and raw cut vegetables. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Place seasoned vegetables on oiled baking sheet and bake in oven until they are caramelized and tender, about 30-60 minutes. Will be soft yet still with good texture and crispy edges with some lightly charred areas.

4. Remove from oven once finished cooking.

5. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

6. Enjoy.

Cranberry Orange

Zest Sauce

Yields 4 cups

• 3 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen

• 1 cup cranberry juice, sweetened

• 1 piece orange peel

• 1 each orange for zesting

• ½ cup orange juice, freshly juiced

• 3 each cinnamon stick

• ¼ teaspoon clove, ground

• ¼ teaspoon allspice, ground

• ½ cup sugar

• Pinch salt

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. In medium saucepot on high heat, add everything except orange peel and orange zest. Bring ingredients to boil, then reduce to a simmer with lid.

2. While simmering, stir occasionally with rubber spatula ensuring bottom does not burn. Simmer for 30 minutes or until sauce thickens.

3. Remove lid and add orange peel and season to taste. Can add more sugar or spice if needed.

4. Once sauce is thickened and most liquid has evaporated, remove orange peel and cinnamon sticks and remove pot from heat.

5. With hand-held blender, puree sauce, keeping some texture.

6. Freshly grate in orange zest, stir and season to taste.

7. Transfer sauce to jar and place in refrigerator to cool overnight.

8. Enjoy!

CHEF NOTES:

• Enjoy with all types of poultry and game birds.

• Do not use ground cinnamon.

• Can puree with blender if you do not have hand-held blender.

• Consistency should be thick sauce and not a jelly.

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 01

8 WAYS TO ORGANIZE AND INJECT STYLE INTO YOUR SPACE

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

FACE CLOTHES THE SAME DIRECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

BY KIND AND COLOR 02 03 04 05

NEGATIVE SPACE HIDDEN STORAGE

Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-toceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for out-of-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

CONTINUED > 23 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHAMBLEE SEPTEMBER 2023

UPGRADED HANGERS

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!

07

BAG & SHOE STORAGE

Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions.

Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily.

06 08

MAKE A STATEMENT

Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

Honoring the resilience of my African and Afro Native American ancestors, whose hands toiled this land as sharecroppers, my new project stands as a testament to their unwavering spirit. With their legacy as our foundation, we embark on a transformative journey, celebrating heritage, unity, and progress.

SEPTEMBER

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY

Pickleball Open Play (POP) KESWICK PARK

Join the Pickleball craze for Pickleball Open Play (POP) at Keswick Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon and Sundays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For all the details about Pickleball Open Play at Keswick Park, visit  chambleega. com/584/Pickleball.

SEPTEMBER 8TH

The Micah Cadwell Trio

DISTILLERY OF MODERN ART

7:00 PM

Looking to hear some live music?

The Distillery of Modern Art presents the Micah Cadwell Trio at 7 p.m., Sept. 8. For details and more visit,  distilleryofmodernart.com/ our-events.

SEPTEMBER 13TH

Wine Down WednesDIY Wood Workshop

AR WORKSHOP CHAMBLEE

SEPTEMBER 17TH

Sip & Scent

DISTILLERY OF MODERN ART

2:30 PM

The Distillery of Modern Art will hold a Sip & Scent event at 2:30 p.m., Sept. 17. The event features a candle-making workshop where "fragrance, creativity, and cocktails converge." For more information and tickets, visit  distilleryofmodernart.com/our-events.

SEPTEMBER 17TH

Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop

AR WORKSHOP CHAMBLEE

2:00 PM

Love the feel of a warm blanket? Learn how to hand knit your own at the Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 17 at AR Workshop Chamblee. For more details and to register for the workshop, visit the AR Workshop Chamblee website at  arworkshop.com/ events/chamblee/389227.

SEPTEMBER 23RD

Chalk Walk & Artist Market

CHAMBLEE CITY HALL

10:00 AM

The city of Chamblee will hold a Chalk Walk & Artist Market, 10 a.m., Sept. 23, at Chamblee City Hall. The event will include professional chalk artists, a chalk art competition, community chalk space, an artist market, and food trucks. For more information, visit  chambleega.com.

Founder AG AV LLC

Aren Gray is the founder of AG AV LLC, an Audio Visual company that focuses on integration and customization within the field of technology This includes smart home integration, Home theatre installation, Tv mounting, Commercial and Home Networking deployments and more

Prior to launching AG AV, his passion to understand and learn about the industry was unparalleled Aren wanted to be able to master the art of technology, as well as his passion for entertainment and how it could co-exist collectively. Aren started working alongside his father with his business fixing computers while perfecting his love for the arts At this point, the spark was ignited His passion for technology and his passion for music started to develop

Years later Aren decided to attend Full Sail University where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree for Recording Arts in 2013 Once he graduated, he started to work within the industry He noticed when it came to working with most companies, there was a lack of customization and care towards their clients This opened his mind into the art of business He decided to return back to Full Sail University where he was able to graduate in 2018 with a double Masters in Entertainment Business and Sports Management At this point he was unstoppable Aren not only accumulated college degrees, he also gained over 50 certifications ranging between Audio Visual, Broadband, Networking, and security; not to mention, hands on experience to match I think it is safe to say he truly is the best of the best in his industry

Upon completing his Masters, he decided to start the pursuit of owning his own business whilst gaining additional knowledge through others that came before him Aren was determine to create a business like no other As time progressed, so did the spread of his new venture

AG AV has grown to reach the Orlando and Atlanta market His hope is to have his business expand to additional states around America with the help of every community he encounters

Website: www.agav.work

Phone: (833) 809-8302

Email: info@agav work

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Chamblee

publisher’s favorite places

Kevin Parker is the publisher of Chamblee City Lifestyle Magazine. After moving to the area more than 10 years ago, he's seen the city transform from a sleepy town to a booming place with much to offer! And with all the growth, he knows it’s a great area for a  City Lifestyle Magazine to showcase.

Things are looking bright in Chamblee with the downtown district growing and Chamblee’s new City Hall and green space, the growing number of restaurants, a schedule of fun and entertaining events, new shops, and much more. Venture a little further and residents can enjoy a walk in nature along the Rail Trail. There’s a lot to see and do in Chamblee, and it’s all part of just what makes the city a great place to call home.

We asked Kevin to share some of his favorite places around Chamblee. A few of them may be familiar to you and a few may be new to you. Either way, Kevin is excited to share a

tle taste of what makes Chamblee special to him, and he’s

forward to bringing you

Thank you to all of my Founding Partners.

Kevin Parker Chamblee City Lifestyle Publisher

Level Up Realty Team Powered by Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Georgia Properties leveluprealestateteam.com

AG AV Audio Visual agav.work Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy team-rehab.com

Alex Egan | Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty alexegan.atlantafinehomes.com

Energy Fitness Atlanta energyfitnessatlanta.com

Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic atlantarestorationchiropractic.com

FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Center Chamblee fyzical.com

The Mad Italian maditalian.com

Wellspring Dental/Myogrow Airway Center wellspringdentalatl.com

Adriana Herrera | Coldwell Banker Realty adrianahomes.com

Thrive Sauna Studio thrivesaunastudio.com

Susie Mae Design susiemaedesign.com

Old Brick Pit Barbecue oldbrickpitbbq.com

Currie Rose Interiors currieroseinteriors.com

Habitations, LLC: Dwelling by Design habitationsllc.com

Fountain of Beauty Med Spa fountainofbeautymedspa.com

Nuts ‘n Berries Neighborhood Market nutsnberries.com

Debi Campbell | Prosperity Home Mortgage phmloans.com

David G. Carter | Attorney, Estate & Asset Protection Planning yourlegacygoals.com

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