












I hope this letter finds you in good health, high spirits, and beating the heat – we’re definitely in the dog days of summer now (see what I did there)! We especially loved putting this issue together. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment, and we are happy to dedicate this issue to the kids in our community.
And who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
Unfortunately growing up my Mom was not a dog or cat person, so I had a bird. A small green parakeet named Peter that we later found out was actually female. Still, it was better than nothing, although now as an adult, I’ve had my share of pets (dogs) and have made up for lost time! My sister became the proverbial “cat lady.” At any given time there are three to five cats roaming her household, occasionally minus one when my niece kidnaps one of them for herself.
Although children obviously take priority, both kids AND pets share something in common - they both need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month. Cheers!
KEVIN PARKER, PUBLISHER
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Kevin Parker | kevin.parker@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tana Poncsak | tana.poncsak@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Janet Howard | janet.howard@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Polina Williams | polina.williams@citylifestyle.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Elevate your events with Balloonacy’s enchanting décor services, tailored to infuse festive spirit into every occasion. For private or corporate holiday parties, our expert team designs stylish decor that transforms the venue into a magical setting, creating the perfect ambiance for celebrations of all kinds!
1: Who’s bad? And you know it! Chamblee residents rock at the first concert of 2024. 2: Hold on to your hat! A Michael Jackson tribute band entertains the crowd. 3: Residents are all smiles while attending the first concert of the summer. Chamblee Rocks! 4: It’s music, food, and fun at the June summer concert in Chamblee. 5: Monster trucks on display at the Red, White & Blue-Haven 2024 Car Show in Brookhaven. 6: Classic cars are ready for show at the Red, White & Blue-Haven Car Show. 7: Spectators take a trip back in time at the 2024 car show in Blackburn Park.
8: Unique cars were also on site at the 2024 car show in nearby Brookhaven. 9: The city of Chamblee officially breaks ground for the renovation of Dresden Park. 10: The city of Chamblee staff members celebrate Juneteeth with a Lunch & Learn. 11: Chamblee Mayor Brian Mock recognizes the 75th Anniversary of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation. 12: Local media attends a Dine & Discover DeKalb event at the Distillery of Modern Art. 13: Residents watch the USA take on Panama at the Chamblee June Third Spot. 14: Georgia United Credit Union holds a ribbon cutting. Welcome to Chamblee!
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Petite Violette is celebrating 50 years! Join the celebration during the month of August with a number of anniversary specials and events such as specified discounts, wine tastings, cooking demos, delicious French cuisine, and more. Visit petitevioletterestaurant.com for more information.
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center introduces Dr. Sasha Tadros as Clinic Director. Sasha received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology/ Exercise Science from Georgia College & State University, where she developed a profound interest for rehabilitative medicine. Sasha continued her education at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences where she received extensive education and training and acquired her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree with honors. For more information, visit fyzical.com/chamblee-ga
Bronx Bagel Buggy is excited to announce the launch of their new website thebronxbagelbuggy.com
The new site allows the bagel shop to take online orders, preorders for the Brookhaven Farmers Market, as well as catering inquiries. Stay tuned for Bronx Bagel Buggy's next launch that's set to include DoorDash Delivery and a catering menu!
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
Pets help to round out our families. But unfortunately, not every pet has found their forever home.
Chamblee City Lifestyle spoke with Jabari Gadsden, director of animal care, DeKalb County Animal Services, about the shelter in Chamblee and the different processes and ways people can help.
Jabari came to DeKalb County Animal Services with a passion for animals after having pets while growing up as a young boy. He initially thought he might become a veterinarian, but after time in the military, he found himself working in a doggy daycare program. From there, he went on to start a doggy daycare program at a local veterinarian hospital before joining DeKalb County and the Lifeline Animal Project in 2018 as an Animal Care Supervisor. Currently, he is the Animal Care Director serving the animals in his care by providing a hospitable culture while offering visitors an efficient and positive experience.
“My passion has always been with animals,” Jabari says. “I’ve never actually held another industry job that didn’t deal with animals in my entire adult career.”
The animal shelter in Chamblee can have more than 500 animals and it takes a lot of manpower to feed and care for them. Overcrowding at the shelter is a concern. Jabari says there are a number of ways people can help.
First and foremost, adoptions help move the animals from the crowded environment of the shelter into loving forever homes.
Jabari says there are two ways to adopt. The first is by finding a pet through the online system, completing and submitting an application, and then coming into the facility for a meet and greet. Or you can come into the facility first and start the application process with an adoption counselor. Jabari says the counselor will identify key behaviors and personality traits based on what the family or individual is looking for and then they’ll find a match.
Either way, Jabari says it’s a quick and easy process. Their process is “Adopters Welcome” and means they generally don’t exclude anyone from adopting.
“We treat everything on a case-by-case basis,” he says, adding that they work to match both personalities and lifestyles between the pets and potential pet owners. Animals are observed for key behaviors and those behaviors are matched with those of potential owners. For example, for those potential owners who tend to lead a more sedentary lifestyle will likely be matched with a pet that’s not as active.
Animals are observed in different settings by a number of staff members who come in contact with the animal during their routine roles and by volunteers. All key behaviors are noted by the observations made and allows for the best match for both the pet and owner.
Jabari says that with more than 500 animals, they see a variety of different breeds. He says adoptions are always on a first come, first served basis, and he suggests that if you’re looking for a certain breed to keep checking the website for the options available.
If you aren’t ready to have a forever pet, you can help by fostering a pet. Jabari says there are two main foster programs.
Foster to adopt is basically a two-week trial period with an animal. Two weeks allows time for the animal to decompress after living in a shelter environment and allows the potential owner to get to know the animal and any potential behavior or medical issues. It also allows any other pets and the potential new pet time to get to know one another and to see if they’re a good match.
And then there’s the basic fostering program, where a person or family is able to help by fostering an animal for a determined amount of time. This is a tremendous help to the shelter by keeping the numbers down to help prevent overcrowding.
Keep in mind, there are also short-term opportunities with the Dog for a Day Program and the Weekend Warrior Program. With Dog for a Day, an animal can be taken out for a day of fun. It’s a great outing for the dog. For the Weekend Warrior Program, dogs go for a short-term overnight stay. And again, it’s a great way to give the animal a break from a stressful shelter environment.
Jabari says you can sign up to volunteer by registering online. There's an orientation to attend, and then also a mentorship program for those new to volunteering – new volunteers are paired with a current volunteer to learn the ropes. Volunteers can help with clinics, dog walking, play groups, and more.
For more information, to find your next pet, or to learn more about how you can help, visit lifelineanimal.org .
Thinking about getting a new pet? Consider adopting.
The shelter always has a number of animals looking for their forever homes.
VOLUNTEERING CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE ONE PET AT A TIME
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
Some people have a heart for animals. Susie Prince of Susie Mae Design and Chamblee City Lifestyle partner is one such person. Susie says she has been volunteering her time at the shelter in Chamblee since 2018.
Susie's love for animals all started when she was a young girl growing up in a home that always had a dog as part of the family. It’s not surprising to learn that Susie missed the companionship of having a pet and was in her senior year of college when she got her first dog on her own. “I really love animals,” Susie says. “And I just felt like I wanted to have a dog of my own.” With a job and some time on her hands, she says she felt she could handle the responsibility of having a pet. “Just being able to care for something is like doing something bigger than just caring for myself,” she says.
After turning to Petfinder, Susie found her new pet. “I went and met her, and she was a perfectly sweet little thing,” she says, adding that she weighed about 70 pounds. “I absolutely adored her right away, so I adopted her and brought her home.”
“One of the greatest joys is to see an animal become relaxed and happy.”
Susie says as her dog got older and didn’t go on as many walks, that’s when she started volunteering at the shelter and walking the dogs there. She explains that at first volunteering can be a bit overwhelming. “You show up and there’s more than 500 dogs there, and you know that even if you spent your entire day there, you can’t walk all those dogs,” she says. You’ll barely make a dent in the 500 dogs. But here's the thing - Susie stresses that every little bit can help, and while you can't help all the dogs, you CAN make a difference for the dogs you can walk.
Susie went through the orientation and has even mentored new volunteers through the volunteer process, and she now spends her time helping in the shelter and the animals there in a variety of ways. “It’s been extremely rewarding,” she says about her volunteer work at the shelter. She’s even managed to adopt a couple of pups over time. “One of the greatest joys is to see an animal become relaxed and happy,” she says. “Just getting to experience an animal feeling good again is fantastic.”
She says with two adopted dogs at home already, she’s reached capacity. And if you’re concerned that you’ll want to take them all home,
Prince
Susie says that the reality is that you know your limitations, and that's not likely to happen. If you are considering volunteering, Susie suggests attending the orientation at the shelter first to see what volunteering at the shelter is all about. There are so many options including opportunities that don't include actually handling the animals. For example, if you’re a technology person, you can help with technology. If marketing is your thing, there are ways to help with marketing. There’s something to fit everyone’s skillset and comfort level. Susie says at the shelter in Chamblee, they are fortunate to have a committed and robust volunteer community, but she adds that there are only so many hours in a day, and they can always use more help.
Susie says that other ways to make a difference is by spaying and neutering your pets. Overcrowding is a big problem, and there’s a real need to reduce the number of animals that come into a shelter. And if you're thinking about getting a new pet, consider adopting from the shelter.
For more information on volunteering, fostering, and adopting, lifelineanimal.org
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DESIGNING SPACE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND LIFESTYLE IN MIND
ARTICLE BY AARON MICHELLE PLATT-BAKER/
ROBERT PLATT
In recent years, most have heard the phrase “aging in place.” I suppose if anyone stands still long enough, you’re doing just that, like being in line at the DMV. However, this phrase has generally been targeted toward Boomers, of which I am a member. It was meant to capitalize on a large segment of the population with resources and in the autumn (so to speak) of our lives. It was, and is, meant to address the barriers that exist in our homes and become more evident as we age.
Specifically, as we experience the decline of our physical abilities. It often starts when we find that our stairs became steeper when we weren’t looking. All of this is so true and will become of greater import to all generations in time. As designers, we get it, and we have a plethora of well-developed solutions. Fear not! However, that is not our focus today.
Today we wish to shed light on the greatest challenge to the American dwelling throughout history… children! (Insert dramatic music here). Science has uncovered the secret of how they happen. Storks. Who knew!? Children present an overwhelming challenge. With reckless abandon, they change daily before our very eyes! For God’s sake, it’s like chasing a chicken! I tried the whole thing about pushing down on their heads every morning. It doesn’t work and just annoys them. Oh sure, they’re cute and cuddly in the beginning, and all you need is a glorified closet called a nursery. But then they develop voracious appetites and need more room and bigger furniture (and shoes), and then they want stuff and make friends and where does it stop, I ask!? College.
Between now and then, don’t turn to alcohol (well maybe wine). What you need is an experienced home designer, preferably with children. Trust me, we’re great listeners and actually have remarkable solutions. There is hope for the amazing shrinking house. Really! Just ask us.
“Trust me, we’re great listeners and actually have remarkable solutions.” Robert and Aaron Michelle, Habitations
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
MARY CLAIRE PHOTO
Dr. Rachel Stockwell is the owner and chiropractor of Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic in Chamblee. The practice offers a number of chiropractic services including Pregnancy Care and Pediatric Care. Other services include True Corrective CareChiropractic BioPhysics, Scoliosis Care - Management and Correction, Sports Chiropractic - Maintenance and Flexibility, and Infrared Sauna.
Dr. Rachel is a second generation chiropractor who has a passion for family wellness. Dr. Rachel herself is a mother, and she understands all too well the importance of time when it comes to a busy family, and she takes measures to respect everyone's time when it comes to families and chiropractic care.
ATLANTA RESTORATION
CHIROPRACTIC
OFFERS
“IT’S THE ULTIMATE IN PREVENTIVE CARE.” DR. RACHEL STOCKWELL
In addition, she loves to educate her patients, as well as those within the Chamblee community and beyond. And according to the Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic website, her favorite thing is having an office full of fun, energetic kids. Chamblee City Lifestyle caught up with Dr. Rachel for the August issue to learn more about her and to hear how chiropractic care and her expertise can benefit children as well as other family members. Continue reading to learn more about Dr. Rachel and her chiropractic practice during our recent interview.
DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE A CHIROPRACTOR?
No, I went to school for psychology, but my mother is a chiropractor, so I grew up in the field. After having a dream my junior year of college that I was a chiropractor, I switched tracks.
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE SERVICES YOU OFFER.
Pediatric and Perinatal care is the focus at Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic. We see babies from birth up, and pregnant women from preconception to postpartum. We love improving the health of whole families. Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic also offers Sunlighten Infrared Sauna, and we're one of only a couple offices that have appointments available for kids to use the sauna. The clinical benefits that we have seen in the office utilizing the sauna in addition to chiropractic care have been so exciting!
According to the website, Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic invites visitors "to experience a different kind of wellness." Among other services, Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic offers pregnancy care and pediatric care.
PREGNANCY CARE
Trusted, Effective
Dr. Rachel is certified in the Webster Technique, a specific protocol to properly analyze and adjust the pregnant woman's pelvis in order to give baby all the room to move, grow, and get head down. Chiropractic care during pregnancy has been shown to reduce labor times, decrease pain during labor and increase healing time postpartum.
PEDIATRIC CARE
Growing Healthy Children
Chiropractic care for kids and babies is underutilized and so effective! It's safe, gentle, and Dr. Rachel always makes it fun for the little ones. We see kids to maintain wellness, but often they come in to address complaints such as nursing difficulties, head rotations (torticollis), colic, constipation, bedwetting, ear infections, breathing challenges, poor posture (W sitting, forward head, rolled shoulders, etc), scoliosis, ADHD, and SPD.
To learn more about Dr. Rachel Stockwell and Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic and all the chiropractic services offered, visit atlantarestorationchiropractic.com
(Source: a tlantarestorationchiropractic.com )
TELL US WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT PEDIATRIC SERVICES AND WHAT SPECIAL SKILLS ARE NEEDED. ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONCERNS?
Pediatric chiropractic care is extra special because it helps kids grow into healthier humans, rather than addressing issues in adults after problems occur. It's the ultimate in preventive care. Besides many extra hours in postgraduate education, there are plenty of extra skills needed to see the pediatric population that Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic excels at (such as) our office is extraordinarily kid-friendly. The doctors and staff have endless patience. And we are silly, happy, educational and make chiropractic care fun.
There are no real "concerns" for chiropractic care in kids, but we do address any questions that parents may have head on. Chiropractors who see children are highly educated in pediatric anatomy, growth patterns and reflexes, and we love educating parents on how and why we adjust. We screen for birth traumas and anomalies that may change the way we adjust, but regardless of the child, there is a chiropractic technique that can work for every body.
WHAT'S YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN WORKING WITH YOUNG PATIENTS?
Patience. It can take a while for kids to warm up to doctors - especially if they haven't had great experiences with other providers. Each child is different, and to be successful, we have to be patient, fast, and fun.
COULD YOU GIVE US A COUPLE OF INSTANCES WHERE PEDIATRIC CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES CAN BENEFIT YOUNG PATIENTS?
We love seeing the changes in babies and kids under chiropractic care. Less sick days, quicker illness recovery, better sleep, better digestion, less flat heads, less ear infections, and generally more relaxed babies. I get most of my referrals from pediatricians for ear infections, constipation issues, torticollis (a stiff neck), reflux, and colic, but there really is endless potential for what pediatric chiropractic care can help with.
WHAT'S YOUR GREATEST REWARD IN WORKING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE?
We typically see changes in infants and kids FAST. It is so rewarding to see kids, who may have already seen other providers, and they find relief and correction and better health under chiropractic care.
WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE CHAMBLEE AS THE LOCATION FOR YOUR CHIROPRACTIC PRACTICE?
I love Chamblee - I love the way the city is growing, from the restoration of old buildings, to the funky new businesses and restaurants going in. It feels like a tiny big city with the train, Marta, the walkability, cool shops and revamped spaces.
For more information about Atlanta Restoration Chiropractic, Dr. Rachel Stockwell, and the services offered, visit atlantarestorationchiropractic.com
ARTICLE BY TANA PONCSAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANET HOWARD
Swim School has programs for all ages.
DYNAMO SWIM SCHOOL CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SWIMMERS
The once small swim school that started out in Chamblee has grown and now has multiple locations in the metro Atlanta area. It's also celebrating 60 years!
Cordarro Patrick, director of operations, has been with Dynamo Swim School for about 18 years. Initially he says he started working at the swim school because he was good with kids, but he found he really likes the company. “It became my passion,” he says.
The swim school offers swimming programs and water sports for all ages from infants to adults. Often the swim school is recognized because of the number of Olympians who have competed in the games after taking part in the Dynamo Swim School programs.
To learn more, find locations, or to register, visit dynamoswimschool.com .
As the school year kicks off, it’s the perfect time to explore new opportunities in the real estate market. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a bigger home for your growing family or find a cozy new space, the Level Up Real Estate Team is here to help. We specialize in finding homes that fit your needs and budget, ensuring a smooth transition into the new season.
Ready to make a move? Contact us today to get started!
AUGUST 6TH
Chamblee Public Safety Building | 6:00 PM
National Night Out is an evening of fun, community, and safety awareness starting at 6 p.m., August 6 at the Chamblee Police Department located at 4445 Buford Highway. Meet your neighbors, law enforcement, and city leaders. For more information, visit Chambleega.com
AUGUST 9TH
Chamblee City Hall Front Lawn | 6:00 PM
The Chamblee Summer Concert Series continues at 6 p.m. on August 9 as 10,000 Maniacs take the Chamblee stage. Join your friends and neighbors for music and fun! For more information, visit Chambleerocks.net
AUGUST 18TH
Chamblee City Hall | 4:00 PM
Come watch the Atlanta Braves take on the Los Angeles Angels for the August Third Spot Event. We'll be ready to cheer on the Braves at 4 p.m., August 18th in front of the big screen television on the lawn at Chamblee City Hall. For more information, visit chambleega.com. Bring your neighbors and friends. And GO BRAVES!
AUGUST 18TH
Distillery of Modern Art | 7:30 PM
Top Shelf Comedy is a monthly stand-up comedy show that features the best of Atlanta Comedians. The show is held at the Distillery of Modern Art in Chamblee. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and you must be 21 years old to enter. For more information, visit distilleryofmodernart.com
AUGUST 23RD
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Amphitheater | 7:30 PM
Callanwolde announces its 25th Anniversary of Jazz on the Lawn Concert Series presented by Audi Atlanta. The jazz series begins with Karla Harris and the Joe Alterman Trio performing at 7:30 p.m. on August 23 at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Amphitheater. The amphitheater will open one hour prior to concert time. For more information and for tickets, visit callanwolde.org/events
AUGUST 24TH
Westside Park, 1660 Johnson Road, NW, Atlanta, GA. 30318 | 11:00 AM
Food, fun, music and wine is what you'll find at the third annual Atlanta Wine & Jazz Festival starting at 11 a.m., August 24 at Westside Park. This year's featured artists include Marcus Johnson, Lori Williams, Paul Taylor, and many more. Tickets start at $65 per person. For more information, visit atlantawineandjazz.com
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.