Issuu

AUGUST 2020

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

Jasmine Stewart Slays

WITH HER NEW BAG LINE!

SHOWCASING KIDPRENEURS AND TEENS THAT GIVE BACK! JAYLA WIDEMAN'S COMPASSIONATE CLOSETS PREVENT THE COVID-19 SLIDE WITH ONLINE LEARNING

R E A L

E S TAT E

I N V E S T I N G

Are You Tired of Making Someone Else Rich? Learn to Invest in Real Estate The Right Way from the Pros! To Check out our 3 step process, go to www.investNrealestate.today

4201 Jonesboro Rd., Union City | (833) 444.6985 | INFINITIofSouthAtlanta.com

PURCHASE FROM HOME

CALL OR VISIT ONLINE TO FIND OUT HOW! EXPERIENCE ANY NEW 2020 INFINITI FINANCE WITH

APR FOR 60 MONTHS

NO PAYMENTS FOR

PLUS

3 MONTHS

For well-qualified customers with approved credit through INFINITI Financial Services. See INFINITI of South Atlanta for details. Offer expires 06/30/2020. 0.0% APR financing for 60 months and 0.9% APR financing for 72 months on new INFINITI models in retailer stock. $16.67 per month per $1,000 financed at 0.0% for 60 months or 0.9% for 72 months, down payment may be required. Subject to INFINITI Financial Services credit approval. Not all buyers qualify.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2020 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis | michelle.willis@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Erikka Mitchell | emitchell@lifestylepubs.com

Tiffany Powell Photography

Making Lemons Into Lemonade HEY Y’ALL, I was driving down an eerily quiet Peachtree Street this summer toward Piedmont Park and I saw something that you hardly see anymore. A couple kids and their dad were setting up a lemonade stand on the sidewalk. It was truly a blast from the past and it warmed my heart. Were those kids saving up for something special? I was on

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dennis Malcolm Byron, Kristen Wright Matthews, Dawn Thornton, Renee J. Turner, Nicolette Martin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Adrian Martin, Brooklyn Prewett, Deshawn Hyacinthe, Tabora Bobe Photography, Tiffany Powell Photography, Ben Shanks

my way to an appointment but I really wanted to pull my car over to support. This summer has presented many unexpected opportunities. The activity seemed like a great way to spend some quality time and simultaneously teach your children about the value of earning your own money at the same time. This issue celebrates some dynamic kids and teens! Kidpreneurs and experts at giving back! It is our pleasure to tell Jasmine Stewart’s story. She is the Atlantabased kid chef that went toe to toe with Gordon Ramsay on “MasterChef Junior” and was crowned the champion! Now, she has produced a line of Girl Bags. Then

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

meet Jayla Wideman, who is simply remarkable. She was only 14 when she started

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

her nonprofit that provides items for kids at schools in several different states. We

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

have a story about what life lessons you can learn from your pet turtle and tips for a

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

stress-free road trip with the kids. We round this issue out with a young Morehouse

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

grad, Charles Ategbole, who wrote a children’s book on entrepreneurship! This is a

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

good one. You will want to share this issue with the young people in your life. Grab your August issue, pour yourself a tall, cold, sweet glass of summer and join us on the porch! Enjoy!

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Jasmine Stewart came to slay with her new line of Girl Bags!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TABORA BOBE 4

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

Proverbs 3:5-6 South Fulton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the South Fulton areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in South Fulton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2020

FEATURES 12 It’s Time to Slay! Jasmine Stewart, Her Success Since “MasterChef Junior” & Her New Line of Girl Bags

22 Let's Roll! Tips on How to Make Road Trips StressFree for Mom & Dad

26 Thunder, Lightning & Mr. Tiddly Winks How Your Kid Can Learn Several Values From Unusual Pets

12 34

34 The Entrepreneur Child South Fulton's Charles Ategbole Authors Children's Book

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

22 Travel Destination 26 Animal Kingdom 28 Driver’s Notebook 30 Local Limelight 32 DIY 34 Parting Thoughts

Dentistry & Orthodontics for all stages of

Life

Adult Dentistry Children's Dentistry Sedation Dentistry Dr. Kimberly E. Beal Orthodontist

Dr. Kaneta R. Lott Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

30 YEARS CARING FOR SOUTHWEST ATLANTA

2440 Fairburn Road SW, Suite 301, Atlanta

FamilyandChildrensDentistry.com

404.349.7777

GOOD TIMES

#WondaLunch Feeds Many and Keeps People Working in ATL and LA Janelle Monae's Wondaland Records sought to fix two issues at once with their WondaLunch food giveaways in both Atlanta and L.A. They were able to distribute meals to 3,000 people in Atlanta and followed up by feeding twice as many in California. Additionally, they were able to put Gate Gourmet workers from the airport back to work.Â PHOTO CREDIT: ADRIAN MARTIN (WONDALAND) AND BROOKLYN PREWETT (FEAR & FANCY), LA AND DESHAWN HYACINTHE, ATL

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

NEED A /C? $ 69

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE ON A REPLACEMENT Competitive Pricing On A Complete System Inside & Out With Financing Available

SERVICE CALL FREE WITH REPAIR Essential handles

commercial & residential l HVAC M ec ha ni ca He lp Wan te d in Co m m er ci al Re f rig er at io n an d Co m m er ci al Re si de nt ia l

accounts, and we do HVAC and mechanical.

770-210-HVAC ESSENTIALHEATANDAIR.COM HELP WANTED: QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS

AROUND TOWN

VIRTUAL DATE NIGHT IDEAS WITH UNEXPECTED ATLANTA TOURS AND STORIES 3 New Virtual Tours! As always, Virtual Tours cost just $10 per screen.

TRUE COLORS THEATRE PRESENTED VIRTUAL READING Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre presented a virtual reading of "One in Two," on Saturday, June 27th. Taking place on National HIV Testing Day,

The folks that brought you Atlanta Food Walks are

this reading was a collaboration between True

now going beyond Atlanta, so you'll see new tours

Colors, Atlanta theaters (Out Front and Out of

focusing on many favorite regions of the South with

Hand) and Atlanta-based service organizations

local guides, stories, and treats.

(The Counter Narrative Project and Positive

In addition to Street Art and Sweet Tea, upcom-

Impact Health Centers).

ing tours are themed Southern Food History and

“One in Two,” written by playwright Donja R.

Hoecakes and Civil War and Salt. They will talk

Love, is an exploration of what life is like for those

about the role of food in the Civil War, the impact

who are Black, queer, and living with HIV. The

of the Civil War on women, why Sherman's March

reading was directed by local director Thandiwe

to the Sea mattered, the importance of African

Thomas De Shazor and features local Atlanta

American soldiers in the Civil War, and how the Civil

actors. There was a brief moderated talk back

War ended. They will also feature a look at present

after the play led by Charles Stephens, Founder

day Savannah with our Savannah tour partner and

and Executive Director of The Counter Narrative

discuss how to use blended salts while cooking.

Project. Learn more about this partnership of the

The optional Savannah Treat Box features

Counter Narrative Project and Atlanta theater com-

two blended salts from the Salt Table, recipes,

panies by listening to the segment on WABE 90.1.

Savannah artwork, and more fun hands-on activ-

TrueColorsTheatre.org

ities. As always, they ship free directly to your front door anywhere in the United States. Shop. UnexpectedAtlanta.com

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART COMMISSIONS NEW PIAZZA INSTALLATION The

High

Museum

Art

will

unveil

“Murmuration,” a soaring, stunning installation by the internationally renowned architecture and design firm SO – IL and partners Jing Liu and Florian Idenburg. Presented on The Woodruff Arts Center’s Carroll Slater Sifly Piazza, the installation continues a multiyear initiative to activate the High’s outdoor space with site-specific commissions that engage visitors of all ages. On view through Nov. 29, 2020, “Murmuration” speaks directly to the architecture of the Piazza and more broadly to the city of Atlanta and its relationships with the natural world as viewed through the lens of bird migrations. Featuring a foliage-filled mesh canopy suspended over the Piazza by a steel framework, the installation will envelop guests, evoking tree canopies. SO – IL was inspired by Atlanta’s reputation as the “city in a forest” and by the High’s proximity to the city’s largest greenspace, Piedmont Park.

The project was originally slated to open in April

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

but was delayed due to COVID-19. To ensure the

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

safety of guests gathering outside under the canopy,

SouthFulton using the Get In Touch link and let us

the Museum will provide a hand-sanitizing station.

know what you think.

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

South Fulton Lifestyle Magazine

Congratulates all of our SoFu Graduates! The Class of 2020 Will Change the World!

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

GIVING BACK

it’s time to slay!

JASMINE STEWART, HER SUCCESS SINCE “MASTERCHEF JUNIOR” & HER NEW LINE OF GIRL BAGS ARTICLE ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY TABORA BOBE

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

JASMINE STEWART IS A POWERHOUSE.

“Going to Ron Clark Academy was one of

Sure, she’s a cute, quirky teenager. But if you

the best decisions that my mom ever made,”

take a moment to look deeper, you will soon

according to Jasmine. “Who wouldn’t want

see that she is smart. She is creative. She

to go there? My life completely changed.”

is business-minded. She has a caring heart and a spirit that is dead set on empowering

Now in high school, Jasmine reflects fondly on this time in her education.

other teens. She could have taken her win

“I had so many opportunities at RCA and

on Season 5 of “MasterChef Junior” and

I am so grateful to Mr. Clark, Ms. Bearden,

rested on her laurels. Who would blame

the teachers and staff there. They had really

her? Most wait their whole lives to achieve

high expectations. There is such attention to

that kind of success. Instead, she decided

detail and they put magic into every single

to create a line of bags, a hashtag, and quite

thing.” Jasmine says that at RCA, they work

possibly a movement.

hard and the academics are rigorous, but

“I’m still just a regular kid,” she says. You’ll see she’s that and so much more!

they also play just as hard, which included traveling to an impressive list of destinations

“I loved my time on ‘MasterChef Junior.’ I

as a student: D.C., New York, Colorado, New

had never been to California. Of course, I’d

Orleans, Paris, London and Barcelona. She

never been on TV. It was amazing to meet the

even got to visit South Africa.

judges, Gordon Ramsay and Christina Tosi.”

“I really gained life skills there. Some of

You may remember from her season that

them are helping me in starting my business.”

Jasmine was actually eliminated in Episode

When asked about what inspired her to

5. When she was brought back, she wasn’t

launch her own business, Jasmine laughed. “I

going to squander that second chance.

guess you could say it’s in my blood. My mom

“I actually started to doubt myself. But when

and my dad own their own businesses. I think I

I got the chance to come back to the kitchen, I

got my entrepreneurial spirit from them,” speak-

really pushed myself.” Jasmine went on to blaze

ing about her mom, a lawyer, and her dad, a

the competition and was finally victorious.

physician who’s currently treating patients that

At the time of “MasterChef Junior,”

are suffering from Covid-19. “I’ve always been

Jasmine was a middle school student at Ron

very creative. And after the show, I realized that

Clark Academy in South Fulton.

I had a platform that I wanted to use for good.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

“Being a girl and growing up can be awkward,” Jasmine stated when asked why she chose to create purses. Reflecting on being a teen and transitioning into puberty, she wanted something girly, pretty and practical. “The Girl Bag has pockets for everything from lip gloss to tampons. It can hold everything a girl needs and it’s still cute on the outside. You can put in a small book, your lunch or whatever makes you who you are!” “Some of my classmates talked differently or dressed differently. I discovered that who I am is okay. I said to myself, ‘I just need to go out there and slay.’ I want girls to know that #LetYourInnerGirlSlay means that you don’t have to be like everyone else. Who are you when no one is watching? Be yourself and let that girl slay!” With every sale of a Girl Bag, a portion of the proceeds goes to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Jasmine has seen how the pandemic has affected many families and believes giving back is important, especially during this difficult time. Jasmine would say to young entrepreneurs that anything is possible. “Your idea is your baby. You have to believe in yourself! Don’t doubt yourself. It won’t be successful if you don’t get it out there. Choose your team and support system carefully.” I think this is great advice for any entrepreneur. Be a part of the movement! The Girl Bag is available for purchase at JustChefJasmine.com for $34.99 per bag. Furthering Jasmine’s girl empowerment platform, each bag is focused on a particular theme and distinguished by color. The “Act” Girl Bag represents a blank canvas designed to encourage the buyer to take action to create their life story as no one else can paint that canvas (life) for them. The “Dream” Girl Bag represents ideas and emotions, our dreams. It is designed to remind the buyer that dreams are colorful and wild and one should dream big because with hard work, most things are achievable. 14

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

“YOUR IDEA IS YOUR BABY. YOU HAVE TO BELIEVE IN YOURSELF! DON’ T DOUBT YOURSELF. IT WON’T BE SUCCESSFUL IF YOU DON’ T GET IT OUT THERE. CHOOSE YOUR TEAM AND SUPPORT SYSTEM CAREFULLY.”

IG: @JustChefJasmine #LetYourInnerGirlSlay #JustChefJasmine

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

FOREST LAWN

FUNERAL HOME & MEMORAL GARDENS

---- PLAN A MEANINGFUL MEMORIAL

Celebrating each life LIKE NO OTHER

THE FINAL ACT OF TRUE LOVE IS TO HONOR THOSE WEâ€™VE LEFT BEHIND. Start planning your final arrangements now and save your loved ones from making critical decisions while grieving and paying future cost.

on how your love today will impact your loved ones in the future.

WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.

Please contact us for monthly cost saving incentives. FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME 5755 MALLORY ROAD COLLEGE PARK, GA 30349

TARA GARDEN CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME 681 NORTH AVE. JONESBORO, GA 30236

SHERWOOD MEMORIAL PARK & MAUSOLEUM 6841 TARA BLVD JONESBORO, GA 30236

KENNEDY MEMORIAL GARDENS 2900 RIVER ROAD ELLENWOOD, GA. 30294

770-892-2808

770-478-5001

770-471-7171

404-243-8900

FORESTLAWNFUNERALHOMEMG.COM

Preventing COV I D - 1 9 S l i d e EACH YEAR, SUMMER LEARNING LOSS, OR “SUMMER SLIDE,” IS AN AREA OF CONCERN FOR MANY PARENTS, BUT WITH THE RECENT EARLY CLOSURES OF SCHOOLS DUE TO COVID19, AN ALREADY TRICKY PROBLEM FORESEEABLY HAS THE POTENTIAL TO WORSEN SIGNIFICANTLY. Current research from Brown University projects that relative to a typical school year, students will return in fall, retaining only 63-68% of their learning gains in reading and 37-50% in math. This learning loss will not be universal, as outcomes will vary based on individual situations. Many families faced challenges during the shutdown, including health, economic, and technological setbacks, which hindered progress during distance learning. That’s not including the mental and emotional challenges that can be associated with the shock, uncertainty, and social disconnection caused by the modern times we are experiencing. For some students, the summer slide seems inevitable. But it doesn’t have to be a complete loss. With the help of individuals and groups like Fulton County School Board Candidate Franchesca Warren and South Fulton Parents for Education (SFPFE), a nonprofit organization she founded, local students do not have to fall in the gaps caused by early closures. Through SFPFE’s Facebook group, Warren provides a portal for parents to find information, get engaged, and receive the support of educators, community members, and other parents. She saw a need and took it upon herself to find a solution by rallying together local educators who agreed to offer free virtual tutoring sessions for students, K-12, this summer. “I saw tons of parents complaining about not knowing how to reach their children’s deficits, and I know there are some great educators in the Facebook group,” says Warren. “I put out the call, and they answered.”

5 PARENT HACKS TO KEEP KIDS ENGAGED & PREPARED FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

All children are different, and they learn differently. A tutor can help address these differences by offering individualized or small group learning and pliable resources to help students prepare for their rising grade levels. Summer practice with a tutor can make a world of difference, easing the transition back to school for educators, parents, and, most importantly, students. 18

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

ARTICLE KRISTEN WRIGHT MATTHEWS

“SFPFE’s number one goal is to help schools bridge the gap

To get ahead of the curve, Womack urges parents to do

between school and home,” says Warren. As a mother of four

their research and find the Georgia Standards of Excellence

and an educator, Warren understands parents’ plights and the

for fall classes and prepare themselves and their chil-

support required for teachers.

dren using these resources or a tutor’s services. Visit

One of the tutors involved in the initiative is Ensa Womack,

GeorgiaStandards.org.

Founder of Math Woes, LLC. Vested in the needs of the South

“Knowing the previous, current, and rising grade-level

Fulton community, Womack says, “During the final 1.5 months

standards opens parents’ eyes to the content and skills your

of the year, schools typically review the major work of the grade,

child must master,” says Womack.

remediate, and prepare students for the fall.” “The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted this practice, creating the conditions for an even worse summer slide than usual.”

In addition to seeking a tutor’s experience, here are some parent hacks to help offset learning loss and help kids avoid sliding backward this summer and still have fun.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

PREVENTING COVID-19 SLIDE (CONTINUED)

1) ENCOURAGE READING

hobby or in courses that challenge their critical-thinking skills like

Literature in any form is beneficial to children of all ages. Reading

playing chess or coding. Visit a place you’ve never been, either in

is fundamental and helps to provide academic support, even if the

person or online. Learning should be continuous, but it doesn’t have

material itself isn’t educational. Kids should read as much as possi-

to be entirely academic.

ble during the summer months. 5) ESTABLISH A DAILY SUMMER SCHEDULE 2) DOWNLOAD LEARNING APPS

Of course, it’s easy to allow students unlimited free time, but

Learning apps are fun and engaging. Because kids feel like they’re

research shows that children and adults thrive in a structured environ-

playing a game, it’s easy to motivate them to work through a les-

ment. Allow time for learning, innovation, fun, movement, relaxation,

son. One of the top-referred apps is Khan Academy, which features

and of course, to socialize with others, albeit virtually or in-person.

grade-level missions aligned to the common core standards.

Now more than ever, it is essential to maintain routines conducive to daily learning. It will not only reduce the chances of summer slide, but

3) PURCHASE PRACTICE WORKBOOKS OR

will foster creativity, confidence, and emotional well-being in students of

DOWNLOAD WORKSHEETS

all ages. This summer vacation looks different than in previous years, but

Much like learning apps, practice workbooks are available in

with patience and planning, the potential to come out on top is limitless!

specific grade levels. Workbooks and worksheets are an excellent supplement and extension for learning software. To limit screen time,

Kristen has worked as a freelance writer and public relations profes-

rotate between the two.

sional for over 20 years. Originally from Los Angeles, she relocated to Atlanta in 2015 after spending 12 years in beautiful Charleston, South

4) PROVIDE HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES Incorporate activities that offer opportunities for learning and growth. Teach or enroll your child in a class to learn a new skill or 20

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

Carolina. Kristen lives in South Fulton with her husband Chris and two boys. She is the editor/publisher of CollegePark.MacaroniKid.com– a hyperlocal calendar and family fun guide.

ITâ€™S TIME FOR A

New Smile Braces and Invisalign FOR ALL AGES

WE ARE OPEN AND EAGER TO SERVE YOU!

New patients, present this ad for $75 off your initial fee

770-892-3833

AtlantaSmileStudio.com 5390 Campbellton Fairburn Road Fairburn, Georgia 30213 ORTHODONTICS

On-line consultations accessed through our website.

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

TRAVEL DESTINATION

let 's roll! HOW TO MAKE ROAD TRIPS STRESS-FREE FOR MOM AND DAD

ARTICLE DAWN THORNTON PHOTOGRAPHY BEN SHANKS AND PROVIDED

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

SINCE MID-MARCH, HALF THE WORLD HAS SACRIFICED ABSORBING SUN RAYS AND SOMETIMES THEIR SANITY BY NOT LEAVING THEIR HOMES OR NEIGHBORHOODS DUE TO THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC. For months, hotels were closed, beaches were banned, and cars were parked, while we stocked up on masks, sanitizers, wipes, and any cleaning products left on bare store shelves. Now that many of us aren’t as apprehensive to escape our four walls and embark on a road trip, there are a few things that could make the adventure more memorable and less maddening. 1. INCLUDE THE KIDDOS Permit the little ones to participate from beginning to end. Even toddlers have opinions and specific ones. Selecting their favorite things or soliciting their opinions on decisions allows them to feel included and partially in control. 2. KEEP IT COMFY No matter the time of day we get on the road, my daughter loves to slide into her most comfortable pajamas that are roomy, airy, and cute. Being confined to a booster seat for hours won’t be fun, so what she wears is important. When she’s not in her PJs, a loose shirt and stretchy pants take their place. She is past taking daily naps but always takes advantage of the monotony of riding to catch some Zzzs. That means she’ll also need her neck pillow and a plush blanket to snuggle. 3. SNACK TIME After the shut-eye, a snack and drink are usually on deck. Alternating healthy snacks like raw carrots and granola bars with potato chips and chocolate cookies is a fair compromise. This method should help lessen meltdowns surrounding the candy the children will beg for and minimize the sugar rush while confined to a vehicle. It also helps to prepare the driver’s edibles first so their eyes stay focused on the road and their hands aren’t fumbling about. 4. BATHROOM BREAKS If a bathroom break is needed, opt for a popular hotel on the next exit instead of a sketchy gas station. Hotel bathrooms tend to be cleaner, and their grounds may have grass for running and light play when everyone needs to stretch their legs. You might even be able to grab a sucker at the front desk. Don’t forget your mask when going inside. 5. EASY ENTERTAINMENT Consider packing a screened device but relax the rules for 90 minutes (the typical length of a child’s movie). Surprising them with a new flick may even score more CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

points than the junk food. But donâ€™t just make it a free-for-all with the electronics; swap out the handheld gadget for crayons, construction paper, and a sketch book when the movie credits begin to scroll. 6. SETTLING IN Once the children are content, both the driver and passenger can get comfortable. Give the driver first dibs on the radio so theyâ€™ll enjoy being behind the wheel. The passenger can grab a good book, listen to a music playlist, or whatever piques their interest. It may even be as simple as engaging the driver with captivating conversation. If the trip is lengthy, be prepared to take the reins if the driver grows tired. 7. DECLUTTER THE CAR Take time to declutter the vehicle prior to leaving home. Only take items you need for this particular excursion. Non-useful items can accumulate and become overwhelming, sometimes causing anxiety. Remember to nab a few small trash bags from home for easy clean-up of scrap paper, snack bags, and candy wrappers. 8. PACK YOUR PATIENCE Lastly, the most important item to always remember when preparing for a family road trip is to pack plenty of patience. We all know that everything goes right none of the time. Be prepared to be unprepared. There will inevitably be delays, setbacks, blow outs, and meltdowns. But even those become cherished memories too. 24

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

ANIMAL KINGDOM

T h u n d e r, Lightning and M r. T i d d l y W i n k s VALUES I TAUGHT MY KIDS WITH THE HELP OF OUR PET TURTLES ARTICLE KRISTEN WRIGHT MATTHEWS

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

WHEN MY DAD GIFTED MY 4-YEAR-OLD SON, SOON

produce the vitamins they need to survive and an air

TO BE 13, WITH TWO BABY AQUATIC TURTLES, WE

pump to help them breathe.

THOUGHT THEY WERE THE PERFECT FIRST PETS FOR HIM. I didn’t know a lot about turtles, but like most kids, my

Resilience - Although turtles are relatively small, quiet and

son lost interest quickly, and their livelihood was shifted to me.

undemanding, fostering a turtle is a long-term commit-

After reading disturbing news about turtles carrying salmo-

ment. They can have a lifespan of up to 40 years if cared for

nella, I was ready to dump them in the nearest pond. He was

properly so it’s not a job for the weak.

enamored, so for the love of my son I knew what I had to do until he could properly take care of them on his own. After all,

Empathy - Turtles require specialized treatment: special

he wasn’t in control of his hygiene and could not know how to

food, habitat, and care. One must be mindful of the growing

take care of reptiles that could be carrying harmful bacteria.

needs of the pet turtle.

Being the overzealous mom that I am, I saw an opportunity to teach responsibility. In hindsight, it was far more

Appreciation and Loyalty - A few years ago, we adopted

than that. I was inspiring values through example.

a third turtle, Mr. Tiddly Winks, from a friend who could no longer care for it. I realize I might be nurturing turtles into

HERE ARE SOME OF THE VALUES I TAUGHT

my senior years once my boys, 12 and 4, head off to college,

WITHOUT EVEN REALIZING IT:

and I’m actually fine with that. These turtles have given us more than we could ever give them. They’re family now!

Diligence and Fearlessness - Google became my friend. I learned everything I could to keep them alive and our family safe.

Having family pets is an important part of childhood that offers countless benefits from teaching responsibility to making lifelong memories. As the celebrated poem by New

Patience - I rolled up my sleeves and tolerated the daunt-

York Times bestselling author Dorothy Law Nolte suggests,

ing job until I could pass it off.

“kids learn what they live.” What you do is more important than what you say. When choosing a pet, be intentional

Thirst for Knowledge - The turtles, who we affectionately

because your children are watching.

referred to as Lightning and Thunder, occupied their small tank for a while, but as they grew, we realized they needed

Kristen Wright Matthews is a wife and mother of two sons,

an upgrade. Turtles typically grow to be about 8 to 12 inches

C.J., 12, and Kollin, 4. For over seven years, The Matthews’

long and require an adequate habitat as well as a good diet

family has facilitated a charitable program called Blankies

to reach their size potential.

4 My Buddies, created when C.J. was 5 years old to help him cope with the family’s pregnancy loss of their daughter.

Responsibility - In addition to being fed three to four

Through special projects and events, led by C.J., the family

times a week, turtles need sunlight or UV lights to

provides comfort to kids dealing with difficult situations. CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

DRIVERâ€™S NOTEBOOK

smart family buys

+ camry

+ hyundai

2020 CAMRY TRD V6 SEDAN

2020 HYUNDAI SANTA FE LIMITED 2.0T AWD

Toyota did an amazing job redesigning the exterior

Undoubtedly one of the best SUVs on the market

of one of their most popular and trusted lines. This

in terms of value for the plethora of enhancements

TRD version packs some extra V6 engine muscle

coming standard with this top-of-the-line trim. While

topping 301 running horses under the hood, an

sitting on 19-inch alloy wheels, utilize the all-wheel-

8-speed transmission, and paddle shifters to com-

drive capability and 2.0L turbo engine while maneu-

plete the sport experience. The two-tone option

vering through traffic; the advanced LED lighting

ups the wow factor.

and numerous safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, will further boost the

Base price: $31,040

morale to transport the family. Inside, a panoramic

Visit Toyota.com for more information.

sunroof, booming 12-speaker Infinity Premium Audio, dual automatic temperature control with CleanAir Ionizer, leather seating and numerous other accommodations make this Santa Fe a standout. Base price: $39,200 Visit HyundaiUSA.com for more information.

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

HAVING A FAMILY OF FOUR OR MORE DEMANDS A ROOMY CABIN, DECENT GAS MILEAGE, AND NUMEROUS AMENITIES TO KEEP EVERYONE ENTERTAINED. This trio of recommended automobiles not only meets that criteria, but also come with a few bonuses ranging from hightech packages to wallet-friendly price tags, luxurious pam-

+ cadillac 2020 CADILLAC XT4 FWD PREMIUM LUXURY The Cadillac brand has done a remarkable job maintaining its high standards in the luxury market, and the XT4 keeps things consistent in 2020. The newest edition comes with some standout alterations, especially regarding safety, including forward collision alert and forward automatic emergency braking now being standard. If roomy rear seating and extensive cargo space are a prior-

ARTICLE DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AUTOMAKERS

pering, and some head-turning looks to ride in style.

ity, this XT4 is at the top of the list in the compact SUV sector. And like we said, itâ€™s a Cadillac. Base price: $39,795 Visit Cadillac.com for more information.

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

LOCAL LIMELIGHT Jayla was recently a speaker at a Black Lives Matter rally

THIS TEEN GIVES BACK AND WINS RILEY'S WAY CALL FOR KINDNESS NATIONAL COMPETITION AS SHE MAKES A DIFFERENCE

J AY L A ' S SCHOOL CLOSETS ARTICLE RENEE J. TURNER

JAYLA WIDEMAN WAS 14 WHEN SHE STARTED HER

Envisioning helping schools across the country, FHL

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION, FHL CLOSETS AND

has closets in five schools in Georgia, Las Vegas and

TUTORING SERVICES, INC. (FHL), in 2019. Faith, Hope

Washington, D.C., and hopes to cover five states by the

and Love, the organization’s mantra, brings awareness to

end of the year. Jayla also has plans for a free online tutor-

students in need. CEO Jayla is bringing FHL supply clos-

ing program during the summer.

ets to elementary and middle schools. Jayla started out by donating supplies and toiletries when the schools began requesting additional items. She soon grasped the magnitude of the lack of food accessibility for school children.

At 15, focusing on her education, taking honors classes, and receiving a 98 average in school, she hopes to one day attend Yale University after high school. Joining many of our dedicated youth, Jayla has been attending Black Lives Matter peaceful protest rallies. “I

“When I first started my organization, I underesti-

want to be involved in organizations that continue to work

mated the sheer number of students who would need

on solutions to fix issues that plague our society—such as

non-perishable food items in order to succeed in

homelessness, police brutality, and racism.”

school,” she says.

Jayla is a 2020 winner of the national Riley’s Way

Jayla added food pantry items, school uniforms, and

Foundation’s Call for Kindness annual competition, where

clothing to her school closets. “I think that if children

she received a grant awarded to students across the

are self-conscious about not having these necessities,

country who inspire kindness and work to strengthen their

it’s harder for them to concentrate on their studies. We

communities. RileysWay.org/Call-For-Kindness/

hope that by providing these items, it makes school a better environment for them,” Jayla says. 30

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

To learn more about Jayla’s Closets, visit FHLClosets.org.

Please Join Us

for virtual webinars and lunch and learns! Call 770.964.1984

or visit SouthFultonChamber.com

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

DIY

+HANDCRAFTED+

FUN PAPER CRAFT ACTIVITY FOR YOU + YOUR KIDDO ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

M AT E R I A L S + Cardboard + White crepe paper + Construction paper + Glue + Scissors + Beads, yarn, pom poms, etc.

DIRECTIONS 1. Take your cardboard and cut two pieces into the shape of a llama (we found a stencil online). Then, cut strips of cardboard the depth you want your llama to be. You’ll connect these to either side of the llama cutouts to enclose your piñata. 2. Glue your strip of cardboard all along the edge of one side of your llama, then glue to the other side. (Be sure to leave a hole you can close up later so you can fill it with your favorite candy!)

PIÑLLAMA

3. Starting at the neck, cover the front, back and sides of your llama with white crepe paper, cutting a slit every half inch or so to create the traditional piñata look. 4. Cover all remaining sides the neck and head with white construction paper, cut to fit your design. 5. Using construction paper, beads, pom poms, tassels, buttons, etc., add some flair to the rest of your llama! Bonus points for incorporating different shapes and textures into your final product.

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

The Atlanta Black Chambers is a non-profit organization consisting of individuals engaging in Business, Community and Government activities. Memberships start at only $29 per month

Start growing opportunities with your business today!

877-964-6222 atlantablackchambers.org

P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton 33

PARTING THOUGHTS

THE ENTREPRENEUR CHILD SOUTH FULTON'S CHARLES ATEGBOLE AUTHORS CHILDREN'S BOOK

A CURRENT SOUTH FULTON RESIDENT, CHARLES ATEGBOLE WAS RAISED HERE AS THE ONLY CHILD OF NIGERIAN PARENTS IN SOUTHWEST ATLANTA. He attended Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, graduating in 2011. From there, he attended Morehouse College where he majored in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. It was at Morehouse that Ategbole’s love of business blossomed and he learned the true value of entrepreneurship. After graduating with honors in 2016, he received a scholarship to attend the Hult International Business School in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Despite the challenge of moving to Cambridge, the experience made Ategbole a stronger and smarter businessman. Graduating with a Master of Science in International Business, he also became a member of the distinguished Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. during his time at Hult. Throughout his career, Ategbole has served as a mentor to many young apprentices looking to build their own success in business. The constant message Ategbole shares with his mentees is that they can accomplish anything they put their minds to with ambition, hard work, and determination. Charles Ategbole is the author of The Entrepreneur Child. He has a love for children and wants to teach them the basics of entrepreneurship. Most entrepreneurs start off with an idea/vision and the goal is to follow through with it. According to Ategbole, “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it.” The Entrepreneur Child is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and at many other book retailers.

South Fulton Lifestyle | August 2020

Perfectly positioned between two airports

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport & Fulton County - Charlie Brown Airport

South Fulton Development Authority • Transportation with easy access to I-20, I-75, I-85 & I-285 • Access to CSX Intermodal Terminal • 100% Freeport Tax Exemption on all four inventory classes • Streamlined One-Stop Permitting & Licensing Process • Georgia Job Tax Credit Program • Less Developed Census Tract Incentives • Small Business Resource Center • Small Business Sustainability Grants • Workforce Development Collaborations The City of South Fulton 470-809-7211 | DSF@CityofSouthFultonga.gov 5440 Fulton Industrial Blvd, SW | Atlanta, GA 30336 CityofSouthFultonGa.gov