South Fulton, GA July 2020

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

JULY 2020

celebrate summer?

HOW WILL YOU

2020 GRADUATE SHOWCASE! #SOFU SUMMER BUCKET LIST PINKY GIVES BACK!

R E A L

E S TAT E

I N V E S T I N G

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JULY 2020 PUBLISHER

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

Erikka Mitchell | emitchell@lifestylepubs.com

My Line Sisters in Jamaica on Memorial Day Weekend 2018 Photo by Erika C. Stallworth

Summertime and the New Normal HEY Y’ALL,

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristen Wright Matthews, April Rogerson, Chris Pike, Desiree Boyd CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

It’s summer, #SoFu! We at South Fulton Lifestyle are so excited to bring summer 2020 in with a bang: 25 graduates! The class of 2020! We are thrilled to shine a light

Erika C. Stallworth, Charlee Davis, Arina P. Habich

on these students!

What’s on your Summer Bucket List? The pools are open, even if it’s a miniature pool in your backyard! We’ve got some great ideas but we would love it if you would share with us on social media. Please use the hashtag #SoFuSummerBucketList to share! Let us know what you are up to!

This summer may not be what we expected but it can still be a great time to create a memory. I may not have been able to spend my long weekend with my sisters like we do every year but we were able to share virtually and it was just as

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

much fun. We had a Netflix party, game night, church service, yoga and facials

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

for #selfcaresunday all in a virtual chat room! I challenge you to make the most of

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

what summer brings you, South Fulton. Be creative and make it fun!

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARINA P HABICH 4

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 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 JULY 2020

FEATURES 12 #SoFu Summer Bucket List 6 Ways to Make the Most of Summer Right Where You Are

20 Celebrating 2020 Graduates!

Showcasing Exceptional Students!

28 Pinky Cole Foundation Gives Back!

Supporting the Health, Safety, and Well-Being of the Community During this Time of Despair

12 32

32 Hot Dog Toppings that Sizzle!

Chef Desi Says Try Something Different on Your Dogs!

28

20

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Our Town

16

Locals Only

20 Local Limelight 28 Giving Back 30 Financial Buzz 32 Culinary Creations 34 Artist’s Palette

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GOOD TIMES

City of South Fulton Food Giveaway The City of South Fulton partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to distribute food to its residents at Welcome All Park during the shelter-in-place and quarantine order.Â

South Fulton Lifestyle Magazine

Congratulates all of our SoFu Graduates!

The Class of 2020 Will Change the World!

8

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

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Independent, Well-Rounded and Confident Kids,” on Amazon.com. Willis, who is a mother to four boys, provides simple instructions in the book for parents

1. to stay connected with families through education and communication

to teach important principles to their children.

The book is a result of Willis being asked her

2. provide top notch nurses and staff to help your loved ones maintain their independence and sense of value

advice on how she taught her sons to cook, clean, and play instruments while also instilling in them good manners, productivity and industriousness.

3. to treat our clients’ loved ones like they are one of our own and create a family

She initially shared her parenting tips during her annual Moms All In® Conference designed for

Safety and education have become more important than ever. When given new information, be assured that they are relaying it to their caregivers and the families who have placed their loved ones in their care.

Perfect Care Nursing

entrepreneurial moms, and after receiving a variety of compliments, she decided to develop a book.

Willis is an influencer, speaker, and publisher of South Fulton Lifestyle magazine as well as the Founder and Owner of Gagnant Media and

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MTW Enterprises. She also hosts the “According to

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Jacksonville, Florida, but currently resides in

BURT'S BIG ADVENTURE HOSTS FOURTH OF JULY YOUR SPACE RACE Participants Are Invited to Register and Go the “Social” Distance to Benefit Local Nonprofit This Fourth of July, Bert’s Big Adventure, a nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and

Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and four sons.

For more information, check out michelletaylorwillis.com. To order the book visit Amazon.com.

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS PARTNERED WITH SPROXTE TO CELEBRATE LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS The organizations announce, “Fan Upload,” a free virtual graduation-themed photo booth.

their families, is inviting the city and beyond to (vir-

Atlanta Public Schools and Sproxte, a local cus-

tually) come together and participate in the organi-

tom product and service company, announced a

zation’s second Your Space Virtual Race. This event

partnership to celebrate high school seniors whose

encourages participants to walk, run or ride for a

in-person graduation celebrations were postponed

distance of 1-mile, 5K or 10K during any point in the

due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

day in their space and at their pace, whether that be

Every member of the APS Class of 2020 was gifted

outside or on a treadmill. 100% of the proceeds will

access to Fan Upload, a free virtual graduation-themed

go towards supporting the year-round programming

photo booth in lieu of traditional commencement

at Bert’s Big Adventure. Participants can download

ceremonies. The digital platform captured the culmi-

their race bibs online and share their experiences

nation of each graduate’s high school education in a

on social media by tagging Bert's Big Adventure on

convenient, memorable and shareable way.

Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Registration is a

The APS Class of 2020 featured over 2,000 gradu-

$15 donation per person and only $5 for each addi-

ates from its 16 high school programs and single-gen-

tional family member or quarantine roommate. A

der academies. Seniors could use the site by uploading

special commemorative race day t-shirt is available

their favorite picture or selfie, downloading the still

to purchase for $25. BertsBigAdventure.org

image personalized with their names and logos from

MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS RELEASES EBOOK ON AMAZON.COM Book is a first in a series geared to aid parents to raise well-rounded children Willis

recently

released

their respective high schools, and sharing it with family, friends and teachers across social media platforms.

Additionally, students and their families could use a special feature on the platform to buy customized banners, apparel, memorabilia and enter for a

Award-Winning entrepreneur Michelle Taylor 10

book, “Raising Significance: A Guide to Raising

her

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

first

electronic

chance to win giveaways by tagging @FanUpload and #FanUpload on Instagram.

$15 MILLION BACK TO MEMBERS!

Those served by GreyStone Power got some good news about their power bills in May. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, GreyStone issued an early capital credits return of $15 million to those who were co-op members in 2019.

Making Life Better GreyStone Power is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

11

OUR TOWN

summer bucket list 6 WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE

ARTICLE KRISTEN WRIGHT MATTHEWS

WHAT COMES TO MIND WHEN YOU THINK OF SUMMER? For most, summer is synonymous with fun. It’s the time of year to let your hair down and take life slowly. For students, it means no school and many working people usually take the opportunity to break the monotony and get away. Vacation, baecation, staycation, or whatever you call it—by the time summer rolls around, most of us can appreciate the time off, warm weather, and a dash of excitement.

This summer will inevitably be a little different. With numerous events, school, and even jobs being canceled, we will have to be creative in entertaining ourselves and our families. We have no control over how long this will last, but we can control how we spend our time. The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event that will be documented in history. Whether you’re enduring it alone, with a significant other, or as family, why not make some memories of your own?

Create a bucket list as it’s a great way to connect with your values, stay on track with your goals, log your experiences, and simply enjoy life. Here are some ideas to help you have a summer you’ll never forget, social distancing or not.

#1: Take a Virtual Vacation Is there something or someplace you’ve always dreamed about? Like watching an Egyptian sunset camelback or floating across the Grand Canal under the moonlight? How about swimming in the luminous crystal-clear waters of Bora Bora? Thanks to the WWW, we can go virtually anywhere we want—without a passport. Pick one of the world’s most fabulous destinations and chart your next (or first) international vacation. Save your findings in a binder. Take notes.

Once you have everything you need, plan your virtual vacation. Cook cultural recipes or order takeout from 12

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

a local restaurant, make crafts or decorate to make your journey complete. Take lots of photos. Repeat.

By the time we’re free to travel abroad safely, you’ll be ready. If you never make it, at least you’ll have the memories. By the end of the summer, you might be considered a world traveler.

#2: Go Backyard Camping, or Glamping if You’re “a Little Extra” Get a tent and let the fun begin. Getting outside will allow you to vacate the house and experience something new and different. You can keep it modest or step it up for a full-fledged glamping adventure by adding some of the comforts and luxuries you have inside the house.

#3: Explore the Peach State Take a day trip and explore some of the beautiful sites Georgia has to offer. Catch a sunrise, go for a run, or swim at Jekyll Island’s Driftwood Beach; climb 600 stairs to Amicalola Falls, the tallest cascading waterfall in the South; or kayak through a forest of Spanish moss-covered cypress trees at Paddle Bank Lake. You can indulge in all of these fascinating adventures while staying 6 feet apart from others. If you’re not ready, visit ExploreGeorgia.com for more ideas on how to #ExploreGeorgiafromHome.

#4 Get Better In seeing how the world is innovatively adjusting to our new normal, it’s hard not to feel inspired to be better and do better. Many are saying their goal is to come out of COVID-19 better than before.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

13

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

What that looks like varies from person to person.

Whether it’s launching a new business, writing a book, starting a charity, reorganizing your home, or going back to school, define “better” for you and use the extra time to get started.

#5: Experience Your Home From a Different Perspective Enjoy your home in ways you wouldn’t ordinarily.

Sleep in a different room or gather everyone together for a sleepover in the family room. Instead of watching a movie in your typical spot, plan a movie night in the yard, or as they say, on the green. Invite friends and family and spend quality time with those you’ve been missing, social-distance style.

#6: Celebrate the Fourth of July If you have no intention of going out to celebrate Independence Day as usual, consider hosting a celebration at home with all the trimmings. Invite your family and friends via Zoom and you can make it a virtual reunion. Plan early because by July, maybe we can have the kinds of reunions we really want.

Being limited to the space of our homes is not what we’re accustomed to. It can be overwhelming, but we must keep in mind that it’s temporary.

The ultimate goal is to stay safe. See this as a time to reset, look at life and what’s important to you… and live! One thing we’ve learned from all of this is that life can change in an instant. Reconnect with yourself, your people, and your environment. Despite social-distancing guidelines, there are so many ways to make the most out of summer right where you are.

So go out and fill your bucket lists!

Kristen has worked as a freelance writer and public relations professional for over 20 years. Originally from Los Angeles, she relocated to Atlanta in 2015 after spending 12 years in beautiful Charleston, SC. 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.

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South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

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East Point College Park Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Creates COVID-19 Task Force THEY PARTNERED WITH CHICK-FIL-A TO FEED FRONTLINE WORKERS WHILE ADHERING TO THE SHELTER-

professionals, military personnel, government

service is top of mind for EPCP members

IN-PLACE DIRECTIVES ADMINISTERED

employees both active and retired, and finan-

during this public health emergency, so

BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS,

cial industry professionals.” The purpose of

too is showing sisterly love. Members

MEMBERS

POINT/

the Task Force is to develop a strategic plan

maintained social distance in their vehi-

COLLEGE PARK ALUMNAE CHAPTER

to support communities and essential work-

cles while parading sorority sisters facing

OF DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY,

ers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Just days

various challenges due to the Coronavirus.

INCORPORATED (EPCP) ARE STILL FIND-

after announcing the task force to the mem-

The EPCP COVID-19 Task Force and the

ING WAYS TO SERVE BEYOND THEIR

bership during the chapter’s virtual monthly

chapter’s over 600 members pledge to

INDIVIDUAL HOMES DURING THE PAN-

meeting, EPCP members began engaging

continue with acts of sisterhood and ser-

DEMIC. After anticipating and recognizing

with community leaders to understand the

vice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delta

the immediate needs in the chapter’s service

needs and began providing support. EPCP

Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is a

area, EPCP President, Debra Bunkley spear-

partnered with its local Chick-Fil-A to provide

private, not-for-profit organization whose

headed a COVID-19 Task Force comprised of

boxed lunches to essential frontline work-

purpose is to provide assistance and sup-

seven-chapter members. “I believed it was

ers in its service area, including the Clayton

port through established programs in local

important to have a strategic plan based on

County Police Department, the East Point

communities throughout the world. The

the needs of the communities we serve as

Public Safety Department, the Fayette County

sorority is a sisterhood of predominantly

communicated to us by the mayors, commis-

Sheriff’s Department, the College Park Police

Black, college-educated women with over

sioners, educators, and first responders. The

Department, and the Fayette County Health

one thousand collegiate and alumnae

members of the Task Force include medical

Department. While continuing to provide

chapters across the globe.

16

OF

THE

EAST

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

celebrating 2020 graduates!

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MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS

S CONGRAT GRADS!

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IT IS SFL'S PLEASURE TO SHOWCASE THESE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS!

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VINCENT MARSALIS BATTS Westlake High School Parents: William Victor Batts and Vivian Knott Batts + First student in the history of Westlake High School to be a finalist in the International Science Fair

20

JADAJA BAXTER

+ President of the Westlake Technology Student Association

Riverwood International Charter School

+ Men of Westlake Club hosted a huge giveaway and special

(student in magnet program)

Valentine's day gifts for the women of the school

Parents: Jimmy and Monica Baxter

Future Plans: Georgia Institute of Technology and majoring in

+ Track & Field school record holder

Mechanical Engineering, interning at Georgia Tech’s Center for

+ Concert Orchestra

Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing

Future Plans: Major in Biomedical Sciences and becoming

(CEISMC) office

a Pharmacist

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

JORDYN CHIDEBELU-EZE

DONTONIO FARMER-WILLIAMS

Westlake High School

Hapeville Charter Career Academy

Parents: Mia Fuse and Obi Chidebelu-Eze + Westlake HS Chorus + Yearbook and School Magazine contributor + Delta GEMS participant Future Plans: Georgia State University and major in Business/ Marketing with a concentration in the arts and/or fashion mer-

Parents: Antonio Farmer and Erykah Farmer-Williams + President of the National Honor Society + Mr. Blue & Gold Homecoming 2019 + Earned Associates of Arts from Georgia Military College in July 2020 Future Plans: Attending Tuskegee University to obtain a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business Management

chandising. Jordyn will continue promoting her music and creative writing publishing company, Amarachi Publishing Group.

LYDIA N. FREEMAN CAROLE LOREN ECHOLS Westlake High School Parents: Curtis and Ayanna Echols + Westlake High School Volleyball Team + The B.E.E Club Future Plans: Tennessee State University to major in Business Administration in order to pursue a career in Real Estate.

Westlake High School Parents: Michael and Tisya Freeman + Winning the 7A Girls Basketball State Championship three years in a row (2018, 2019 & 2020) as the starting five Post Player for the Westlake Lady Lions + Ranked one of the Top 25 Post Players in the State of Georgia + Honor Roll Student all four years of high school Future Plans: Major in History at Georgia Southern University on a full athletic scholarship

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

21

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

TERRY GILBERT Langston Hughes High School Parents: Terry and Elisha Gilbert and Van Stallings + Dual enrollment student at GA Military College (earning his Associates along with his high school diploma) and working at the local Publix

CALIYA GALLOWAY Westlake High School Parents: Cory and Carla Smith + Magnet/Honors Student + Varsity Tennis Team Future Plans: Attending Fort Valley State University majoring in Biology. Caliya plans to become a geneticist and would like to have her own private practice and specialize in genetic counseling.

+ Captain of the Football Team + Participated in Let Us Make Men annually where he learned how to be a leader and learned different aspects of being a black man—the opportunities, college, career, challenges, etc. + Attended Anytown Leadership Academy in Kansas City, Missouri, where he learned about race, gender, sexual orientation, classism, and how to be a better leader while better understanding all of our differences. + Received 23 college acceptances (he applied to 24) and received over $400,000 in scholarship offers Future Plans: Officially became a part of the United States Army Reserves when he was sworn in Monday, May 11, 2020. Ranked as an E4 (he got credit for being in Jr ROTC and college credit), Specialist Terry D. Gilbert. He will also be attending Tennessee State University where he will major in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance. He plans to join the ROTC program there and when he graduates with his bachelor’s degree, he will also be promoted to Officer in the Army. From there he plans to further his education in graduate school after joining the military full-time.

ARI HAWKINS KIPP Atlanta Collegiate High School Parent: Missy Hawkins + Hosted two fundraising charitable events to feed the homeless and provided feminine hygiene products + Selected 20 under 20 Atlanta INtown Honoree + Graduating with over 600 hours of community service hours Future Plans: Attend Spelman College to study Political Science with a minor in Public Health

YMANI DANIELLE HENDERSON Landmark Christian School Parent: Kimberly Henderson + Student government + Cheerleading Future Plans: Graduate college and pursue a career in event planning

22

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

GARRETT HORTON MELAIAH C. HOBBS Langston Hughes High School Parents: Doris Pinkett-Hobbs and Theron Hobbs + Georgia Military College Associates Degree Recipient + Honors Graduate + Field of Dreams Academy, Inc. 2020 Scholar of the Year + HOPE Grant Recipient + Captain of LHHS Volleyball Team Future Plans: Attending the University of West Georgia majoring in Biology and minoring in Psychology and Sports Management.

Melaiah's career goal is to become a Physical Therapist with plans

Tabor Academy in Marion, MA (Boarding School) Parents: Gary and Jennifer Horton + Student Government Association + Conducted tours for prospective students, worked on the crew for the annual musical and served as lead lighting designer + Life Scout and hopes to obtain his Eagle Scout badge before his 18th birthday + Participated in a service trip to Vietnam, where they assisted in building a home for a local family + Speaks fluent Chinese and has passed the AP Chinese exam Future Plans: Garrett was accepted into nine universities and plans to attend Hampton University where he was selected as an Honors Program participant.

to open her own Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation practice.

CHAYAH NICOLE MAGEE Creekside High School

AARON JOHNSON Westlake High School Parents: Mr. Aaron Johnson and Dr. Alanna Johnson + Coordinating the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony Part of the first cohort of speakers for Westlake's very own Ted Talks, dubbed Westlake Out Loud + Star Senior for the 2019-20 school year Future Plans: Howard University as a Biology major on a PreMed track to become a Pediatric cardiothoracic Surgeon

Parents: Charlie and Yolanda Magee + SGA President + Varsity Cheerleader - Captain + Varsity Soccer and Swim + National Hispanic Club - Vice President + Debate Team + DECA + ChosEn Model + 2020 Debutante - Forever Pink Foundation + Jack and Jill of America Incorporated, Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter Future Plans: Georgia State University, Political Science, plans to be a lawyer

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

23

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

KENDALL MACK

MAYA LAUREN MITCHELL

Sandy Creek High School

Woodward Academy

Parents: Elroy and Sherri Mack

Parents: William and Melissa Mitchell

+ Honors Graduate

+ Senior and Junior Class Senator at Woodward Academy

+ FCA Leader

+ Volunteer with Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit focused on erad-

+ Four-year Letter Varsity Volleyball

icating homelessness

Future Plans: Attending Xavier University of Louisiana majoring

+ Teen Financial Secretary and active member of the Atlanta

in Biology or Public Health on the Pre-Med track

Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Future Plans: Maya will attend The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill in the fall

CEQUAN J MOBLEY

ALAYSHA RANDALL

Westlake High School

Riverwood International Charter School

Parents: Tammy Mobley and LaPonce Mobley

Parents: Alvin & Constance Randall

+ Maintained a GPA of 3.5 taking AP and Honors classes while

+ Traveling to Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa &

balancing plenty of extracurricular activities

Mutare, Zimbabwe for a short-term mission trip without my par-

+ Involved in JROTC as the battalion S-6 officer for the past two

ents to provide services to young children who were living with or

years and a participating cadet all four years

had been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS crisis.

+ Member of Westlake High School’s iSchool Advocate Team

+ The Legacy Club "God’s PROMise” initiative to girls in the com-

+ Involved in Theater Tech working A/V

munity who were in need of a prom dress. This initiative was not

+ Member of THE Mighty Marching Lions, the highly rated

only a way of giving back to those in need, but also a way to relieve

Westlake Symphonic Band and drumline

some of the added stress during this time of year for those who

Future Plans: Attending Middle Georgia State University and

needed assistance with prom dresses.

majoring in Aviation Science and Management to one day be a

+ Taking IB/AP courses while staying on Honor Roll and main-

DELTA Airlines commercial pilot

taining a 3.7 GPA Future Plans: Spelman College with dual enrollment at Emory University this fall, pursing a major in Biomedical Engineering on the Pre-Med track with a plan to become an Obstetrician

24

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

MYKIERRA REID

MICAH ROBINSON

Westlake High School

Westlake High School

Parents: Ulysses and Harriett Reid

Parents: Steven Robinson and Tiffany Robinson

+ Vice President of HOSA and PR Representative of Women

+ Nominated for the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award

of Westlake

of Excellence

+ Awarded the Most College Acceptances Award: 32 colleges with

Future Plans: Attending Furman University on athletic scholar-

over $300,000 in scholarships, with all the application fees waived

ship (football) and majoring in Health Science

+ Featured along with my classmates on billboards in South Fulton Future Plans: Kennesaw State University, majoring in Biology and minoring in Psychology. Eventually attending medical school to become a Cosmetic Dermatologist with at least 10 locations across the United States

BRANDON SMITH

MIKAYLA SMITH

Woodward Academy Parents: Thanayi Barone Smith and David Smith

Woodard Academy

+ Graduating Magna Cum Laude

Parents: Ayanay Ferguson and Torrey Smith

+ Two-time Georgia All State Chorus Participant

+ W. A. Robotics FRC Robotics team (Engineering Lead)

+ Captain of the State Championship Wrestling Team two years

+ Girls Who Code Accenture Immersion Graduate (her 3-person

in a row

team won a city-wide coding competition for Atlanta and received

+ Woodward Academy Global Scholar

$1,500 for their webpage design)

+ Member of the National Honor Society

+ Graduating with Silver Eagle Honors

+ President of Teens over Trash (a local organization that picks up

Future Plans: Attend Hampton University and major in Computer

trash in College Park)

Engineering. Received $129,000 in scholarships from Hampton

+ President of the Black Student Union + 4.2 GPA throughout high school Future Plans: Brandon has received numerous merit scholarships to attend college and has chosen to take a gap year at American University and then attend Mercer University as a recipient of the Zell Miller and Jesse Mercer Scholarships.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

SAVION SMITH

KERRINGTON (KERRI) E'LANNI STRATTON

Hapeville Charter Career Academy

Woodward Academy

Parents: Lorenzo Linsey and Catherine Smith

Parents: Carmalitha Gumbs-Martin and Michael Martin

+ Dual Enrollment Graduate from Georgia Military College, grad-

+ Varsity Lacrosse

uating with an Associates in Applied Science and General Studies

+ Black Student Union

+ One of the top 25 students at Hapeville Charter Career Academy

+ Festival/Jazz Choir

+ A proud 5STRONG Scholar and being able to build a loving

+ Woodward Summer Camp Counselor

bond with the members of the organization

Future Plans: Spelman College majoring in Biology/PreMed

Future Plans: Attend Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical

track with a minor in Spanish to become an OB/GYN focusing

University as a 5STRONG Scholar, majoring in Criminal Justice with

on Black Maternal Health or underserved communities. She often

a minor in Forensics and Foreign Language

labels herself as a feminist and is an extreme advocate of the Future Is Female.

ALEKSIS TOWNSEND

MICHAEL TAYLOR WHITE

Langston Hughes High School

Woodward Academy

Parents: Kristopher and Keshauna Carter + Member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) + National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) + Army JROTC Future Plans: Attend Albany State University in the fall to major in Sports Medicine

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South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

Parents: Michael and Dorothea White + Lettered in track + Co-President of the Woodward Black Student Union + Spearheaded the 1st HBCU college tour at Woodward Academy + Holds a 3.7 GPA Future Plans: Attend Howard University with a major in Mass Communication and Film Studies

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

27

GIVING BACK SUPPORTING THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELL-BEING OF THE COMMUNITY DURING THIS TIME OF DESPAIR

28

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

PINKY COLE F O U N D AT I O N R E C E N T LY ANNOUNCED A THREEPA R T C O V I D - 1 9 P L A N AISHA “PINKY” COLE, THE OWNER OF THE RAP-

LAUNCHING AN ENTREPRENEURS ANONYMOUS

IDLY EXPANDING SLUTTY VEGAN FRANCHISE, WAS

DIGITAL INITIATIVE TO HELP BUSINESSES (VIA

NAMED ONE OF “20 MOST INFLUENTIAL VEGANS OF

WEBINARS) HIT HARD BY THIS PANDEMIC

2019” BY VEGNEWS MAGAZINE. She also received “The Compassionate Chef Award” from PETA, which is given to

DISTRIBUTING 1,500 POUNDS OF FRESH FRUIT

individuals who are making an impact within their com-

AND VEGETABLES AT THE RESTAURANT’S BRICK-

munity by creating and serving amazing vegan food and

AND-MORTAR LOCATION

showing how easy it can be to go vegan.

“Since Slutty Vegan has gained so much notoriety, we are

RELIEVING COLLEGE DEBT

using our platform to do a bunch of good during this time,”

Pinky Cole, along with the foundation’s Board

says Cole. Founded in 2019, the Pinky Cole Foundation

Chair, Stacey Lee made headlines when they paid

(IG @pinkygivesback) has an overarching mission to lead

off the remaining debts of 30 seniors at Clark Atlanta

entrepreneurship and financial literacy-focused education

University. The entrepreneurs contacted the school for

initiatives, specifically targeting teens and young adults (13

a list of seniors with balances and randomly selected

to 22 years of age) in the U.S.

them. They then headed to campus to surprise the

Some of the initiatives and plans include the following:

scholars with the news.

PCF also paid for college students to return home to be

PAYING THE RENT FOR OTHER SMALL BUSINESSES IN THE METRO ATLANTA AREA

with their families during the pandemic.

“Thank you so much to the Pinky Cole Foundation.

I truly appreciate your effort to help me make it home

PROVIDING FREE FOOD TO HOSPITAL WORKERS

safely! You guys have truly taken the burden away from

AND ASSISTED-LIVING FAMILIES

my mother to bring me home,” says Clark Atlanta stu-

They hope to provide ongoing meal support to both

dent Tinasia Coleman.

Northside Hospital and the Grady Memorial Hospital, two leading medical centers in the community. They are appre-

REGISTERING VOTERS

ciative of their local health care providers and know that

Pre-COVID-19, Cole and Slutty Vegan were on a

they are doing everything they can to ensure the safety of

50-city pop-up tour, where they decided to use the

patients, staff, and families during the COVID-19 response.

opportunity to register customers to vote. Customers

They also provided 100 meals for residents at Baptist

complete their voter registration forms while waiting in

Gardens, an affordable housing independent senior living

line, which was aimed to inspire people in her community

community in Southwest Atlanta.

to vote in the upcoming election.

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

29

FINANCIAL BUZZ

Recirculating Dollars In Our Community OVER THE YEARS, NUMEROUS STUDIES HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED TO EXPLAIN THE IMPACT LOCALLY OWNED INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES HAVE ON A COMMUNITY. One such study was commissioned by the American Booksellers Association (ABA) in conjunction with the Independent Business Alliance and conducted by Civic Economics. Civic Economics studied the economic impact of independently owned retailers and restaurants in 10 communities across the country. With the retail market, the data showed that local independent retailers generated over three times more direct spending in a community compared to national retailers. The study showed that revenues generated by independent retailers circulated 48% of their earned income in the local economy compared to only 13% of income generated by national brands.

Local recirculation of revenue by independent retailers consists of significant spending with other local businesses, specifically for the procurement of goods and services, which comprises, on average, about 20% of their expenditure. Additionally, local retailers recirculated their profits and labor spending at 25.2%, with another 3% of revenues going to charitable giving.

When conducting a similar comparison of restaurants, the study found that locally owned independent foodservice establishments spent 2.5 more times their revenue in the community. The results of the survey showed independent restaurants recirculate over 65% of their revenue in the local community as compared to national chains at roughly 35%.

Local independent restaurants spend, on average, 22.4% of their revenue purchasing goods and services from other locally owned businesses.

Almost 40% of all revenues circulated went to labor cost and owner profits spent in the community, with 7.2% being spent on charitable giving.

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance conducted a similar economic impact study, which helps to simplify the multiplier effect of local spending by independent businesses. Conducted in 2003, the study found that, on average, for every $100 spent at local independent businesses, it generated $45 of recirculated spending locally, compared to $14 for a national chain.

The return on investment for supporting a local independent business is clear. Local independent businesses support the community not only through local spending with other businesses but also through sponsoring organizations such as a Little League sports teams or community cleanups.

Communities should be supporting local businesses whenever possible.

Additionally, local leaders should be developing economic strategies focused on incentive programs to encourage the development and creation of locally owned independent businesses as opposed to incentivizing big, wealthy, national companies which have less direct benefit to the community.

30

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

ARTICLE CHRISTOPHER PIKE

Open for Business: We are still here to serve our patients during this time.

GET THOSE FEET READY FOR SUMMER! FAMILY FOOT CARE FOR ALL AGES • Diabetic Foot Exams • Nail and Skin Conditions • Heel/ Foot Pain • Ankle Sprains • Leg and Calf Pain • Toe Deformities • Bunion Pain • On-Site Digital X-rays

TOBI F. TODD, D.P.M. Board Certified, Foot Surgery

5835 Campbellton Rd. SW, Ste #201 Atlanta, GA 30331 (Located near the CVS on Camp Creek Pkwy)

404-334-0696 • Fax: 404-995-7720 www.famfootcare.com We accept most insurances and non-insured persons.

CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton

31

CULINARY CREATIONS ARTICLE CHEF DESIREÉ BOYD OF DESI DATE NIGHTS

YOU KNOW IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR

TO

PULL

OUT

THE

GRILL!

Speaking of grilling, what do you put on your sizzling hot dog? I love simple fresh toppings like roasted peppers, garlic and onions. While we are jazzing up our dogs, mango salsa is a refreshing summer topping! These toppings add some color to your plate as well! I’ll share a little secret: add Truff Sauce, a hot sauce that comes in three varieties infused with black or white truffles, to compliment your hot dog!

The flavor is on another level! --Chef Desi Desi Date Nights is on Uber Easts!

H ot D o g

T o p p i n g s t h at Sizzle!

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT ON YOUR DOGS

32

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

Please Join Us

for virtual webinars and lunch and learns!

Call 770.964.1984

or visit SouthFultonChamber.com

The Atlanta Black Chambers is a non-profit organization consistingof 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 CityLifestyle.com/SouthFulton 33

ARTIST’S PALETTE

Images of South Fulton and Atlant a in the Time of Pandemic PHOTOGRAPHY CHARLEE DAVIS

CHARLEE DAVIS IS A 16-YEAR-OLD PHOTOJOURNALIST AND ENTREPRENEUR LIVING IN SOUTH FULTON. Her work can be found on Instagram @shotsbycharlee.

34

South Fulton Lifestyle | July 2020

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