YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD TREE SERVICE.
Tree Care Tips
• Check for Hazardous Trees: Winter storms can bring down weak trees or limbs. Inspect for dead branches, leaning trunks, or decay. Call an arborist if unsure.
• Prune for Safety & Health: Late winter pruning strengthens trees and prevents disease. Remove weak or overgrown branches to promote healthy spring growth.
• Mulch & Protect Roots: Add mulch around the base (but not against the trunk) to insulate roots, retain moisture, and prevent soil erosion.
• Plan for Spring Planting: Now is the time to choose native trees and schedule early spring planting for the best start.
• Watch for Pests & Disease: Even in winter, pests and fungal infections can threaten trees. Look for holes, sap oozing, or discolored leaves. Early action can save a tree!
DONI JONES, OWNER
Women of Decatur
As we honor our mothers this May, we dedicate this month to the women who bring our community together. It’s their strength, brilliance, creativity, and radical love that keeps us moving forward. Decatur is filled with extraordinary women spearheading change, leading nonprofits, launching businesses, and making our city one we’re proud to live in. And let’s not forget we’re home to a historically female college right in the heart of our community (go Scotties!).
We kick off with the return of Decatur FC, our city’s own semi-professional women’s soccer team, as they gear up for their second season. Last year, they made history by setting the Women’s Premier Soccer League all-time attendance record at their debut match. This year, they’re building on that momentum, strengthening their squad, and continuing to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Adriana Park brings passion and personality to the local food scene. When she took over Pastries A Go Go, she didn’t just step into ownership — she immersed herself, working every position to truly understand what makes it special. With a hands-on approach, unfiltered authenticity, and deep connection to the community, Adriana proves that success is built on heart, hustle, and a willingness to embrace what feels right.
We also celebrate the work of Nancy Campbell and Radiant Health Kitchen. As a parent, Nancy understands the invisible labor women—especially mothers—put into keeping families healthy and cared for. Through her meal delivery and catering business, she offers a gift that so many need but rarely ask for: time.
Our time with the women in our lives is valuable. To all the Decatur women: moms, leaders, partners, entrepreneurs, change-makers, caretakers, storytellers, advocates, listeners, creators, mentors, friends… thank you. Thank you for all you do.
Here’s to the remarkable women in our lives!
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Brooke Felder | brooke.felder@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Grace Boudreau | grace.boudreau@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Natalie Fox, Brandon Malcolm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bree Hicken, Jonathan Wade
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
WHY CONSULT EARLY WITH DR MEAGAN STURM?
Early diagnosis is the key to better treatment Delaying an orthodontic consultation can lead to extended treatment times, cause a potential problem to get worse, and limit results
WHAT’S THE BEST TIME FOR TREATMENT?
The ideal time for orthodontic evaluation is around age 7 when problems may arise AAO specialists can detect warning signs and provide timely treatment for optimal results, making early consultations valuable
business monthly
Corinne CM Milien Recognized as Atlanta's 40 under 40.
Congratulations to Decatur’s Corinne Milien, founder and CEO of WRK, on being named one of Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 Under 40 Class of 2025. This annual award honors Atlanta's top young professionals and emerging leaders.
Photography
by Jonathan Wade
Smiley's Burger Club Serves Up Smiles in Freshly Renovated Space!
Smileys Burger Club has officially completed construction and is ready to serve up smiles on E. Howard Ave! This beloved burger joint, known for its simple yet perfected classic cheeseburgers, has already won over Decatur with its retro vibes, long lines, and undeniable flavor. After months of pop-ups and early sellouts, the doors of their renovated space are open—so grab a burger, soak in the nostalgia, and be part of the club!
Photography by John Wachs
Parker's on Ponce Mother's Day Brunch
Parker's on Ponce hosts their annual Mother's Day Brunch on May 11th! Enjoy a delicious spread with breakfast and lunch options, a carving station, and delightful Southern Sweets cakes and pies. They will also be open for regular dinner service.
a r y c o u r s e s o n u s e r - f r i e n d l y g o l f s i m u l a t o r P l a y i n a l e a g u e , t o u r n a m e n t , o r c r e a t e y o u r o w n u n f o r g e t t a b l e g o l f e v e n t
L E S S O N S & C L I N I C S
I m p r o v e y o u r g a m e w i t h l e s s o n s a n d g r o u p c l i n i c s f o r s e n i o r s , a d u l t s , a n d j u n i o r
E n j o y f r e e d a i l y p l a y , d i s c o u n t s , a n d m o r e w i t h i n d i v i d u a l a n d c o r p o r a t e m e m b e r s h i p s
W E E K L Y P R O M O T I O N S
E A R L Y B I R D G O L F
6 A M t o 8 A M
S t a r t y o u r M o n t o F r i w i t h e a r l y t e e t i m e s a n d u n l i m i t e d c o f f e e
P A R 3 L U N C H B R E A K
1 1 A M t o 2 P M
T a k e t h e p e r f e c t m i d d a y b r e a k w i t h a p a r 3 + l u n c h f r o m K e l l y ’ s M a r k e t
F I N A L R O U N D
6 P M t o C l o s e
E n d t h e d a y w i t h a r o u n d a n d a r e f r e s h i n g
b e v e r a g e f r o m K e l l y ’ s M a r k e t
F o l l o w u s o n I n s t a g r a m
f o r 2 5 % o f f y o u r f i r s t 3 0 m i n s !
@ g r e e n o f f i c e g o l f w w w . g r e e n o f f i c e . g o l f
DECATUR FC KICKS OFF SECOND SEASON
ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPORT SHOTS BY BREE
SPOTLIGHT BRIGHTENS ON WOMEN’S SOCCER STAGE.
DECATUR, Ga. — The roar of a packed crowd and the unmistakable hum of local community pride are back at Decatur High School Stadium this summer. Decatur FC, the semi-professional women’s soccer team, is set to kick off its second season this May, building on a debut that shattered expectations and brought the city together.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better reception from the community,” said Joel Gould, General Manager for the organizations. “Setting the WPSL all-time league attendance record at our very first game was beyond our wildest dreams. The energy from the fans and the city made it clear we were onto something special.”
Founded by Gareth O’Sullivan, a veteran of the women’s soccer scene in the Atlanta metro for years, Decatur FC quickly became a staple of the city’s cultural calendar. O’Sullivan, who coached successful programs at Clayton State and Christian Brothers University and was also the head Coach of the Atlanta Beat pro women’s team in 2009 and 2010, saw an opportunity to create something new and exciting in Decatur.
A CITY UNITED BY SOCCER
The team’s success is rooted in its surroundings. With Decatur’s vibrant town square a short walk from the stadium, match days feel like community celebrations. Fans spill into the stadium, local businesses benefit, and children flock to the field during halftime to keep the hometown crowd buzzing.
“Atlanta is a huge soccer town, and Decatur is a big part of that,” Gould said. “Many of our season ticket holders are also Atlanta United supporters. But beyond the soccer fandom, the bar is set high with the city’s longstanding tradition of well-executed events.”
Supporters aren’t just showing up — they’re becoming part of the fabric of the club. The enthusiasm has even caught the attention of local organizations and the broader soccer community.
Decatur FC was invited to speak at the WPSL annual conference, sharing its story of successful community engagement.
“Atlanta United’s supporter groups have also rallied behind us,” Gould added. “With a pause in the MLS season this summer because FIFA Club World Cup, they’ve reached out to bring that same energy and passion to our games.”
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF WOMEN’S SOCCER
Decatur FC’s impact extends beyond the field. The club provides opportunities for young female athletes to see themselves represented at a high level. With player signings from prominent D1 programs and increasing interest from international talent, the team is attracting top-tier talent.
“We’ve had players return to their colleges and tell their teammates about their incredible summer experiences here,” Gould said. “That kind of word-of-mouth excitement has done much of the recruiting for us.”
“Visibility is everything,” O’Sullivan said. “When women’s soccer is front and center—in prime time, in the spotlight—people realize just how incredible the sport is. It doesn’t take long for someone to become a fan after watching a single match.”
The club has also invested in the local workforce. Last summer, an intern leveraged their experience with Decatur FC into a role with US Club Soccer. The commitment to supporting staff, players, and the community remains central to the club’s mission.
Additionally, Decatur FC has worked to remove barriers to participation. From providing housing options through partnerships with Agnes Scott College to lining up local job opportunities, the club ensures players can focus on their development.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Like any young organization, Decatur FC has faced hurdles. From implementing a formal ticketing system to navigating NCAA regulations, the growing pains are part of the process. But with each obstacle, the club has emerged stronger.
“We view every challenge as an opportunity to grow,” Gould said. “We want to build a sustainable program that contributes to the city and continues to elevate the women’s game.”
The team also faces the same systemic challenges that many women’s sports teams encounter. Financial sustainability remains a priority. Sponsorships play a significant role, with local businesses and national partners helping to provide necessary resources.
“There’s been a shift in corporate sponsorship, with companies recognizing the value of investing in women’s sports,” Gould said. “It’s encouraging, but we need to see even more growth in this area.”
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2025?
As the team embarks on its second season, the goal is clear: win the conference. Head Coach Campbell-Chapman is assembling a competitive roster bolstered by returning stars and fresh talent.
“We’re aiming high,” Gould said. “Our goal is to win the group, win the conference, and represent Decatur at the highest level.”
“IF A YOUNG GIRL COMES TO A DECATUR FC GAME AND WALKS AWAY BELIEVING SHE CAN ONE DAY PLAY UNDER THESE STADIUM LIGHTS, THAT’S THE REAL VICTORY.”
However, for Gould and O’Sullivan, success isn’t merely measured by wins. It’s about inspiring the next generation of players, especially girls and young women.
“If a young girl comes to a Decatur FC game and walks away believing she can one day play under these stadium lights, that’s the real victory,” Gould said.
Decatur FC also continues to prioritize fan experience. Whether it’s young kids playing on the field at halftime, community volunteers greeting guests, or players signing autographs after the game, the club remains committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.
Decatur FC’s season opener is set for May 23 at Decatur High School. With an unwavering fan base and a city rallying behind them, the future looks bright for this powerhouse of women’s soccer.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information, visit decaturfc.com.
Southern Hospitality
Advocating
PASTRIES A GO GO’S GLOW-UP
ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE
How Adriana Park achieved massive growth and won the hearts of long-time patrons.
Adriana Park is the type of businesswoman we need in 2025: a vulnerable straight shooter with intelligent wit and a communal heart. She’s bold, unapologetically authentic, and a significant asset to the Decatur business community. She has spent the last year pouring her all into revamping the beloved cafe, Pastries A Go Go while focusing on business choices that engender joy instead of getting bogged down by the growing pains of new ownership. Previously a restaurant group manager, Park was ready to invest, expand, and reach new levels of prosperity. She has achieved those aims and then some. The key to her successful transition was working undercover at the cafe for four months before her takeover. She met the guests casually and worked in every position, which helped her hone in on the best changes to utilize. Park baked pastries during the 4 a.m. shift and slung plates as a line cook. Stepping into staff positions from back to front alongside the previous owner imbued her with a sense of what guests love most about Pastries A Go Go.
Park pours her energy into what brings her happiness. A particularly on-brand example was this past Christmas: she went on a holiday decorating marathon, covering the walls with wrapping paper, putting up maximalist reindeer balloons, and in essence “aggressively decorating” every inch. At the time, she felt silly going so overboard, but it was joyful for her. This vibrancy and commitment to authentic expression worked wonders. December turned into a surprisingly profitable month for her, and she still hears from guests how happy those decorations made them. She recalls watching people stroll by the cafe, stare through the windows, and walk through the front door as if magnetically pulled. “If you’re happy doing it and it brings a guest through the door, who cares if you’re not the best at Instagram?” Park refuses to put on a forced performance; her growth arises from tapping into her strengths and contributing to causes she cares about. From supporting the fire department’s blood drives with free cookies for donors to implementing guerilla marketing tactics like handing out biscuits around town, she has organically built out her customer base in a way that’s true to her personality and values.
Park co-founded the legendary Decatur International Festival in 2023; over 7,500 people showed up this past year. Throughout the process, she insisted she didn’t know what she was doing, but she kept putting one foot in front of the other, and it was an epic success. This year, she’s passing it off to others who can benefit from the opportunity. She’s currently in the planning stages for 2026’s festival for the World Cup. Park leans into what is fun, brings connections, and attracts “people who eat” to her space. Her community of regulars is dense and diverse. The “Romeos” - an acronym for Retired Old Men Eating Out - come in every Wednesday without fail. She’s witnessed countless friendships forged across divides, amidst life transitions and heartbreaks. Park has ingratiated herself with her guests to an inspiring degree, and the familiarity and kinship are tangible. When you step into the golden glow of Pastries A Go Go, you can’t help but melt into its atmospheric warmth. Butteryellow walls with hand-painted flowers envelop you, an apt demonstration of the special something Park pours into every corner of this labor of love. Come for the bountiful breakfast, stay for the bold vibes and bright connections.
There is a quiet rhythm that keeps families, friendships, and communities running. It’s most often the work of mothers and women – the ones who hold the calendars, plan the meals, remember the birthdays, and create the spaces where love gathers. It’s work that is often unseen but deeply felt, and while they make sure everyone else is fed and cared for, their own care is frequently overlooked. Nancy Campbell; Decatur Mom, and founder of Radiant Health Kitchen, leads a team dedicated to providing Decatur and Metro Atlanta families with nourishment and support where it’s needed most. This Decatur-based meal prep and delivery service, which also offers catering and private chef support, understands the vital importance of sourcing, shopping, and cooking food to keep families healthy and thriving. Radiant Health Kitchen offers a personal approach to everything they do to bring locally sourced, high-quality meals straight to their clients’ doorsteps. ARTICLE BY
RADIANT HEALTH KITCHEN CARES FOR CAREGIVERS
Guided by the belief that “food is life,” Nancy and her team create meals centered around fresh, seasonal vegetables, sourcing ingredients from the beloved Your Dekalb Farmers Market and Buford Highway Farmers Market, ensuring the highest quality and the freshest flavors in every dish. But it’s not just about great ingredients; it’s also about balancing science and nutrition with flavor-filled, nourishing meals. With a Master’s of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health, Nancy combines her expertise with years of experience as a personal chef to curate culturally diverse, balanced, and nutritious menus. From their gluten and peanut-free kitchen, Nancy and her team offer allergen-conscious “homecooked” meals every week that offer something for most dietary restraints. Radiant Health Kitchen’s mission is about lightening the load for those who balance
it all. In the grand scheme of managing 24 hours in a day, taking off the burden of a few nights of meal prep and cooking means putting priority on quality time. This creates opportunities for busy families to sit down at the table without the stress of prep, cooking, and clean-up. No-stress, ready-made meals delivered on a Monday is a local resource that fuels, supports, and, most importantly, gives back time.
As Mother’s Day approaches, one meaningful way to celebrate the women in your life is by providing a little respite with their never-ending to-do list. The gift of Radiant Health Kitchen is an opportunity to honor the invaluable contributions of women by providing them with the care and support they so often extend to others.
Give the gift of Radiant Health Kitchen this Mother’s Day: radianthealthkitchen.com
Al Fresco Decatur Dining
OUR PUBLISHER’S GUIDE ON WHERE TO SPEND YOUR SPRING!
Parker’s on Ponce
Decatur’s closest thing to patio dining in NYC, this spacious courtyard overlooks Ponce de Leon, framed by an ironwrought fence and warm string lights. A refined yet relaxed ambiance makes it ideal for sipping, dining, and people-watching. One Manhattan, please!!
This Avondale Estates gem is all about al fresco fun. A tiny but mighty kitchen serves up gourmet sammies while guests lounge on a vast, retro-styled patio decked in pink and green, giving off vibrant, cheerful energy.
Perched above Oakhurst Village, Scout’s terrace captures the essence of outdoor Americana. Under the trees, this open-air space invites guests to linger over craft cocktails, hearty meals, and stunning sunset views.
A feast for the senses, Chai Pani’s covered patio is as colorful as its street food. With intricate fixtures and an always-breezy atmosphere, this vibrant space is ideal for indulging in bold flavors and warm hospitality.
The Islands are calling in this Downtown Decatur staple. SOS Tiki Bar’s tropical escape is nothing short of legendary. The intimate, exotic corridor buzzes with energy, serving up island vibes, creative rum cocktails, and the infamous Painkiller.
Chai Pani
The S.O.S Tiki Bar
The Little Hippo Scout
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE FICKEN
Brick Store Pub Beer Garden
A beer lover’s retreat, this Europeaninspired beer garden offers rustic communal tables, ivy-lined brick walls, and an ever-changing craft beer selection. It’s a classic Decatur spot to gather, unwind, and enjoy a pint outdoors.
Kimball House
This stunning patio channels a greenhouse conservatory, lush with greenery and refinement. The elegant, airy space sets the scene for fresh oysters, classic cocktails, and an indulgent dining experience steeped in Southern hospitality.
With a quaint courtyard and a soothing fountain view, La Chiquiada’s wrap-around patio is a dreamy hideaway for margaritas and tacos. This charming space offers a perfect dose of laid-back elegance.
Wahoo Grill’s European-style courtyard feels like a secret garden. Draped in twinkling lights with the rhythmic hum of MARTA in the background, this lush escape is a serene spot for dinner, wine, and romance.
Fresh off a renovation, Arepa Mia’s patio is a slice of Venezuela in Avondale Estates. Its hand-crafted design blends rustic charm with urban energy, making it a go-to spot for vibrant flavors and relaxed outdoor dining.
Arepa Mia
La Chiquiada
Wahoo! Grill
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
TUESDAYS
Truckin’ Tuesdays
Legacy Park | 5:00 PM
Nothing brings people together like street food! Grab your crew, blankets, and appetites for Truckin’ Tuesdays at Legacy Park. Every Tuesday in May, the area’s best food trucks serve up delicious eats in Decatur’s biggest green space. Relax, spread out, and let the kids run free—pets (on leashes) are welcome too!
MAY 1ST - 5TH
Cinco de Mayo at La Chiquiada
La Chiquiada | All Weekend Long
Turn up the heat Cinco de Mayo weekend at La Chiquiada! Come celebrate with vibrant salsa dancing, a DJ spinning Latin beats, and delicious food and drink specials that bring the flavor. Whether you’re sipping margaritas on the patio, showing off your moves on the dance floor, or just vibing with friends, it’s the perfect place to keep the fiesta going.
MAY 2ND - 4TH
Decatur Arts Festival
Downtown Decatur | 10:00 AM
Celebrate the arts in Decatur with a weekend full of creativity! Enjoy 130+ artist booths, over 200 performances, a Fine Arts Exhibition, and the vibrant ArtWalk on Friday evening. Bring the kids to Kids Fest, explore the Artists Market, and grab a drink in Decatur’s open-container zone. Don’t miss this dynamic showcase of art, music, theater, and more!
MAY 3RD
L’Arche Atlanta's fourth annual Walk & Roll Together
Oakhurst Village | 10:00 AM
Join L’Arche Atlanta for the fourth annual Walk & Roll Together on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 10 AM–12 PM at Oakhurst Square in Decatur, GA! Celebrate inclusion, build community, and support L’Arche’s mission. Save the date and join the fun!
MAY 17TH
Kirkwood Spring Fling
Bessie Branham Park | 12:00 PM
Spring Fling is back, and Kirkwood is ready to party! Join thousands at Bessie Branham Park for a day of sun, fun, and community vibes. Explore the Tour of Homes, dance to live music, and soak up the neighborhood’s electric energy. Plus, every ticket and sip supports local schools, parks, and neighbors in need. Don’t miss the biggest bash of the season—let’s celebrate Kirkwood in full swing!
MAY 23RD
Decatur FC’s Home Opener
Decatur High School Stadium | 7:00 PM
Join us for the electric season opener of Decatur FC—our hometown heroes in the WPSL! After a record-breaking inaugural season, the excitement is back. Let’s pack the stands and show the league what community pride looks like as they take on Union 10 FC. Tickets available at DecaturFC.com
