Girls Rule: A Charming Bedroom for Chill Time
ARTS + CULTURE
INTERIOR DESIGNS WITH GROWING KIDS IN MIND: HAVEN LANE
A TEEN AND HIS UNICYCLE
EDUCATION
TOP TEACHER HONORED FOR USING GAMING, RAP AND GOODWILL
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Hello friends,
Meow and woof!
It's our annual kids and pets issue. They bring us joy and bring us to tears. They keep us both buoyant and grounded.
I like this poem by Bettina Van Vaerenbergh. "Lessons From Dogs." Family Friend Poems, June 19, 2022. This is a selection: Why dogs don't live that long?
It's because their souls are true And their love is strong. Dogs give their heart away Totally for free. They love us as we are, Unconditionally.
We people are slow learners, So we need many years To figure out life's purpose, What we're doing here… How to be gentle and kind, And to be rich in love, And how to live a good lifeDogs know well enough.
Have a wonderful month!
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksandar Kapetanovic
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Martel Sharpe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Cam Jimenez | Social4Business
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
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @JOHNSCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Shadesof Summer
your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Sue Collins and Regan Maki of Ansley/Christie’s Real Estate. 2: Advertising partners, writers and friends gather quarterly to celebrate the City Lifestyle community. 3: Mimi Mulugeta and Michael Barrows of Atlanta Flooring Studio hosting the City Lifestyle Gathering 4: Latifah Jones of Allcare Primary Care, Dr. Michael Dellaria of Holistic Health Center, Andria Parker of Haven Lane Designs 5: Michael Barrows of Atlanta Flooring Studio, Gene Russell of Go Dawgs Roof Roof, Cinda Salazar, Kimberly Shires of Georgia Luxury Pools 6: The Edge Fitness hosted its annual "Murph" workout to honor our soldiers. 7: Strong and mighty at The Edge Fitness.
Nursing Excellence at EJCH
EmoryJohns Creek Hospital has received its second Magnet® designation for its continued commitment to nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program. Additionally, the hospital was designated Magnet with Distinction, a recognition of the highest-performing Magnet organizations around the world. Emory Johns Creek Hospital is one of eight Magnet facilities within Emory Healthcare, and one of 14 in Georgia. Less than 10% of U.S. health care organizations have achieved Magnet recognition. EmoryHealthcare.org
A Healthier You
All About Health Johns Creek is proud to announce the opening of All About Health MD which is located inside the All About Health Johns Creek location. For anyone suffering from PTSD, sleep disorders, head trauma, cancer, or ongoing pain, All About Health also has a pharmacist on staff who will take care of all your needs. Call to schedule a consultation. AllAboutHealthJohnsCreek.com
As a board-certified and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Julia Kang is highly specialized in plastic surgery of the eyelids. As a true eyelid specialist, Dr. Kang is an expert in her field regarding any type of eyelid concern, both cosmetic and medical. Dr. Kang is also an expert injector in Botox and fillers and aims for only the most natural appearing results, believing in a ‘less is more” approach.
Get Strong
Strength Society GA is opening in Alpharetta, where small group strength training meets personal attention. Expert coaches guide you through high-intensity, focused sessions designed to help you build real strength, boost confidence and chisel your physique. Whether you're just starting out or leveling up, Strength Society GA will tailor the grind to you. Are you part of the Society? Sign up! StrengthSocietyGA.com.
JCSO Welcomes New Music Director
Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra announces Henry Cheng as the orchestra’s new Music Director. Henry Cheng is an internationally recognized conductor whose work brings together musical excellence, cultural curiosity and a deep commitment to community. Winner of the Antal Doráti International Conducting Competition and the European Union Conducting Competition, Cheng has led performances across Europe, Asia and North America with ensembles such as the La Scala Chamber Orchestra and the Tonyeong International Music Festival Ensemble.
Flooring Answers are Here
Flooring Studio has cut the ribbon to officially announce their grand opening. They have been open for a few months but had the official grand opening with the city, friends, family and members of the flooring trade on June 5. From a wide range of carpet, flooring, to stunning tiles, they have it all.
11380 State Bridge Rd, Suite 100, Alpharetta. 770.783.3258.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAM JIMENEZ | SOCIAL4BUSINESS
“The built-in corner unit stealthily hides crafts, school supplies and girl stuff.”
Adorable and Smart
Haven Lane Design creates a sanctuary for a young girl.
A young girl’s bedroom should be a haven, a space to crash and create. To dream and yes, to do homework. It should grow with her, allowing self-expression and sanctuary. Ideally, when the door is open (optional!), the design will flow with the rest of the home, complementing the other bedrooms and family living space.
When a family with THREE girls called designer, Andria Parker of Haven Lane Design Studio + Home Boutique, they worked together to find a happy solutions, soothing colors and accents that would best represent the girls.
The youngest is a competitive gymnast and loves crafting. Her parents want to support her and allow her space to spread out and do her thing. They called on Andria, a friend from church who also designed the spacious living room in their new home on Alabama Road. She met with the family to talk about function, budget and preferences that would best express the girl’s personality and dreams for an absolutely adorable room.
Andria presented a palette of color choices for the large bedroom and Jack and Jill bathroom (shared with a playroom) and they decided on a muted pink for the walls and custom soft sage green for the bespoke bookcases and desk. The built-in corner unit stealthily hides crafts, school supplies and girl stuff. Andria showcased a growing collection
A Vietri tulip vase, floral diffuser and ring holder from Haven Lane Design Home Studio and Design Boutique's dormroom collection.
of hard-earned gymnastics medals by framing them in the functional cabinets. She added a glass topper to the desk to allow free-flow crafting.
To optimize the natural light, her team crafted a lower headboard on the custom upholstered bed that fits beautifully under the window.
“We wanted to continue using quality materials and high-caliber furnishings to match the rest of the house while staying true to the little girl’s personality,” says Andria who founded Haven Lane in 2016, opening her brick and mortar boutique in Johns Creek a year ago October.
“She picked the color scheme and put her stamp of approval on the drapes, furniture and other choices. We had a lot of fun.”
The windows are dressed in a French pleat custom drape of blush pink floral with a touch of taupe and shimmer by Thibaut. “We didn’t want to go full pink so offered designs and soft furnishings that would grow with her into her teen years without screaming ‘little girl.’”
Cozy, high-thread-count bedding and a boucle bench at the foot of the bed ensure a restful sleep and effortless dressing.
She credits the parents for setting a generous but realistic budget for the project. “Many parents have a hard time spending money on a child’s room design. So, our choices were classic, pretty and functional.”
They picked a vinyl wallpaper so the steam won’t distort the dyes or soften the color. Polished nickel hardware provides a shine and the lamp-shaded sconces on each side of the framed mirror are sophisticated but restrained.
In everything she does, Andria is thoughtful in her interactions and considerate of her client’s tastes and budget. Her calm demeanor, decades of experience and extensive interior design portfolio instill confidence so they can dream big and let their colors fly.
Andria Parker
If you ' ve admired a standout roof in Johns Creek, Alpharetta, or the surrounding towns, there's a good chance it was installed or restored by a trusted local favorite now known as Capital City Roofing. The name has changed, but the craftsmanship, customer service, and attention to detail remain the same.
While some companies change names due to mergers or ownership changes, for us, it’s a return to our roots. Capital City Roofing is our original name — and it better reflects the pride we take in serving Georgia’s capital region and surrounding areas. Same expert team. Same elite service. Just a name that feels more like home.
Capital City Roofing holds the highest level of certification with both GAF and CertainTeed, meaning homeowners get not only top-tier materials but also enhanced warranties and proven installation quality. We don’t cut corners we set the bar.
IT TAKES a village
ARTICLE BY KAREN HENDERSON
Each year, over 250,000 children in our country enter the child welfare system and face life without a safe, loving family. The pattern of family breakdown often leaves children trapped in a cycle of anxiety, fear and a sense of being unwanted. As they age out of foster care, many face an increased risk of homelessness, unemployment, incarceration, unplanned pregnancy and human trafficking.
Since its founding by Johns Creek residents in 2009, Promise686 has learned that the most effective way to care for vulnerable children is by equipping local churches. Churches represent the largest and most reliable nationwide network of individuals best positioned to support vulnerable children and families.
However, many simply don’t know how to take meaningful action. That’s where Promise686 comes in, by helping churches launch what they call Family Advocacy Ministries (FAMs). Promise makes it simple for them to get involved and make a lasting impact through training, technology and coaching.
Their FAM model is designed to unify churches everywhere, ensuring any church, in any community, can effectively intervene, creating lasting transformation and rewriting the stories of those stuck in an overburdened child welfare system.
Find out more: Promise686.org
ARTICLE BY MARTEL SHARPE
TOP Teacher
RAP, CREATIVITY AND GAMING HELP MAKE THIS MATH EDUCATOR OUTSTANDING.
Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford of Johns Creek is Head of the Mathematics Department at Atlanta’s Ron Clark Academy (RCA) and is set to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) as part of its 2025 class. Dr. Jones Ford is the second educator from Atlanta and the fourth from Georgia to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame.
“It is a tremendous honor to stand alongside so many extraordinary educators throughout America. This recognition is not only a profound professional privilege but a representation of the passion, sacrifice and brilliance of teachers everywhere,” Dr. Jones Ford said. “I’m grateful for the colleagues who’ve inspired me, the students who’ve trusted me and the opportunity to be part of a profession that changes lives every day.”
With over 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Jones Ford is an award-winning mathematics educator, international speaker and curriculum developer. A lead math educator at the globally renowned Ron Clark Academy for over 15 years, she
Dr. Jones Ford’s influence extends globally, as she mentors educators worldwide, having trained over 100,000 teachers in advanced instructional methods.
teaches in a model classroom visited by over 100,000 educators from around the world. She contributes to the development of innovative curricula, ensuring alignment with academic standards and RCA’s unique educational philosophy.
Renowned for her creative teaching methods, including integrating video games and art into math lessons, Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford excels in simplifying challenging concepts. Her unique teaching style not only engages students but also fosters a culture of “math esteem,” nurturing a positive and enthusiastic outlook on mathematics. Her viral educational rap, created in partnership with Old Navy and Pharrell Williams’ I AM OTHER, reached millions of viewers and showcased her unique ability to make learning joyful and relevant. She is a National Board-Certified Teacher, holds multiple degrees in mathematics education and has been a guiding force in shaping instructional policy, professional development and STEM access initiatives nationwide. Dr. Jones Ford’s influence extends globally, as she mentors educators worldwide, having trained over 100,000 teachers in advanced instructional methods.
We caught up with Dr. Jones Ford to talk about family and community.
Why did you choose to live in Johns Creek?
We chose Johns Creek because it’s the perfect blend of community, culture and convenience. As a family, we value strong schools, safety and a welcoming environment, and Johns Creek checked every box. It’s a place where we can raise our kids surrounded by great neighbors and opportunities for both learning and fun. The diversity and vibrancy of the area made it feel like home from the start.
What are some places in Johns Creek that you like to shop or go for dinner?
We’re a ramen-loving family, so JINYA Ramen Bar is one of our favorites. For special occasions, we love Pampas Steakhouse. Also, you’ll often find us at the local farmer’s market on the weekends. We are looking forward to The Medley opening so we can experience more of the work-play-live community experience in Johns Creek.
Are there any outdoor areas that you enjoy?
Definitely! Webb Bridge Park is one of our go-to spots—it’s a great place for walks, sports and just enjoying time outdoors as
a family. We also love Newtown Park for community events, and you’ll often find us at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve when we want a little nature break.
Behind the scenes with Dr. Camille Jones Ford.
We’re a busy but joyful bunch that loves learning, building and having fun together. Our son is currently attending Northview High School and our daughter previously attended Medlock Bridge Elementary. We’re big believers in staying connected to our schools and community through local events and volunteering.
Education is a big part of what we do. I provide math tutoring and SSAT prep for students across the area, helping kids feel confident and ready for their next steps. We also own Tapville Georgia, a mobile craft beverage experience that brings something fun and different to festivals, parties and local events.
We believe in working hard, supporting local events and making space for quality family time—whether that’s through our businesses, traveling to San Diego Comic-Con as a family, or just enjoying a night out in Johns Creek. We’re grateful to be part of such a dynamic community and excited for what’s ahead. Follow the family on IG at @fordfamilystrong
Securing Your Child’s Future In Good Health
MEETING THEIR FUNCTIONAL AND STRUCTURAL NEEDS
ARTICLE BY JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
The average child has about 1,000 traumas before they enter adulthood. For instance, when learning how to walk, they fall. Learning how to ride a bike, they fall. Navigating playground games and backyard play, they tumble and knock heads.
These traumas can and do cause spinal misalignments, which is when the bone moves slightly out of its normal position in the spine. This may cause an immediate problem where the child complains (“ouch!”) or not. Another concern is the damage being caused to the spinal nerve. Our spinal nerves go to all areas of our body including muscles, organs and glands. When the bones of the spine or vertebrae misalign, the function of the body is altered. Many times, this goes undetected for months or even years if a child is not under regular chiropractic care.
So, what effect could this have on their health? Longterm damage to spinal nerves and incorrect nervous system signaling to areas of the body can have profound effects. A misalignment in the first thoracic vertebrae, which is at the top of the ribcage, can cause bronchial problems such as asthma. A misalignment in the first cervical vertebrae in the neck could lead to chronic ear infections, head colds or migraines.
Only a chiropractic doctor is trained through years of experience to be able to feel the subtle difference in a spinal joint that is either moving correctly or is not.
Chiropractic adjustments are safe for all ages. An adjustment is the term used to correct spinal misalignment back to its normal position and restore function to that area of the body.
In Dr. Dellaria’s practice, he has had the privilege of seeing multiple generations from patients’ newborns, to childhood, adulthood and now their children. Patients tell him all the time how their children just don’t seem to have the problems other children have. This includes not getting sick as often or when they do get sick, recovering faster, and many times, not needing to take anything to recover. Also, they’re injured less frequently in sports. They have less trouble concentrating in school. Many of them have a more positive outlook on life, handle stress better and overall, are healthier.
Founder and main doctor at Holistic Health Center, P.C., Dr. Dellaria uses his wide, diverse education along with his 24 years of experience in practice to help patients’ conditions that do not respond to traditional medical care. His success lies in the refreshing new take on chiropractic meets functional medicine.
HolisticHealthga.com 11539 Park Woods Cir #602 Alpharetta
“Many times, this goes undetected for months or even years if a child is not under regular chiropractic care.”
Three generations in the Giles family have benefitted from Dr. Dellaria's care.
DI S C OVERINGHISOWNPATH
When Tennyson Ha rolled up to Johns Creek High School hefting a giant gym bag on his shoulder three years ago, principal Chris Shearer welcomed the new student, organizing a parking spot for the large wheel. Residents and police officers have looked on wide-eyed as the city’s resident unicycler slipped through swarms of cars and pumped uphill on State Bridge. But the riding, to the young man, has been a matter of course.
CLAIMING IT, TENNYSON HA IS ALL ABOUT UNICYCLING.
ARTICLE BY DIANA HA
In California, Tennyson’s father, himself a unicycler, coaxed his ten-year-old to push off the fence at the tennis courts while pedaling. After a month of falls, Tennyson was off, riding for pleasure and exercise. He cruised the Pacific coast on his wheel and unicycled the mountain trails of Los Angeles with his Dad.
Between the 36” Coker and the baby 12” (the tire diameter), seven unicycles including the Giraffe, filled the family garage before Tennyson moved to Georgia with his mother. Well over six feet on his 29” and impossible to miss, he has survived close calls with drivers on Medlock Bridge whose eyes were glued to their phone. “They also don’t look both ways before turning left or right and don’t see me coming from the side,” says the unicycler.
Safety has remained a conscious value for Tennyson who grew up doing Mixed Martial Arts. Having trained in Johns Creek and Duluth under Krav Maga black belts and coaches of pro fighters, he spars with friends and mentors every chance he gets. “I want to teach women, especially those on college campuses, how to protect themselves and minimize any chance of altercation.” CONTINUED >
“He is much, much more than The Unicycle Kid,” says JCHS senior and friend Nat Jaswani. “His curiosity about my lunch - without a wrinkle of his nose (a rare response to Indian food) and his ability to fit in a hilarious comment, his kind interactions with everyone regardless of their background, show us that Tennyson is a character you won’t find anywhere else.”
He also drums at church, having scored top prizes as a rock drummer in talent shows in California.
But always the unicycler and now a kids’ birthday party entertainer, Tennyson shoots hoops and jousts with DIY foam swords on his wheel to help make memorable celebrations. Through mountain trails, rivers of traffic and birthday backyards, Johns Creek’s unicycler continues carving his own path.
Find Tennyson Ha on LinkedIn.
How to ride a unicycle, from the Unicycling Society of America
HOW TO MOUNT THE UNICYCLE:
• Place the pedals so they are at “6 o’clock”.
• Put the seat between your legs. The narrow part of the seat is the front.
• Put your dominant foot on the lower pedal.
• Hold onto the wall, railing, or fence and pull yourself up so you are sitting on the seat.
HOW TO START PEDALING:
• Roll forward, slowly, ¼ revolution so that your pedals are at “3 o’clock” (this is called the “power position”).
• Look ahead
• Keep your back straight
• Keep your arms straight and out to the sides
• Put your weight on the seat (not on the pedals)
• Pedal slowly from power position to power position. Try to develop a rhythm by saying “Go. Go. Go.” Or “One. Two. One. Two.”
• Try to keep the motion going forward and fall or step off the front of the unicycle onto your feet
• When you fall or step off, let go of the unicycle and try to land on your feet
At Dentistry at Ivy Falls, Dr. Joshua Kim and Dr. Gene Chung believe that every smile tells a story—and they’re here to help yours shine. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll experience dental care that’s personal, comfortable, and genuinely caring.
Whether you’re here for a routine visit or exploring a full smile transformation, you’ll always be treated like family—with the time, attention, and expertise you deserve.
Real care. Real connection. Real results. Because your smile deserves more than just routine.
Dr. Josh Kim & Dr. Gene Chung
Exceptional Senior Living!
AUGUST 7TH
Classes at Blossom and Vine
5950 State Bridge Rd Suite 100
Turn your creativity into breathtaking works of art with an expertly curated class. Whether you’re mastering beginner-to-advanced floral arrangements, building lush terrariums, or diving into botanical drawing and painting, there’s a world of inspiration waiting for you. This month, the floral arranging class, is a Pressed Flower Memory Box. BlossomAndVine.com
AUGUST 20TH
Womenʼs
Wholesome Wellness
Northeast Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Road | 10:00 AM
Would you like to learn more about Lifestyle Medicine and how it can be applied to your life? Join this program once a month with Life Coach, Sona Tank. The six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine will be discussed in detail. Contact 404.613.7300 for more information.
AUGUST 20TH - 24TH
FedExCup PTA TOUR Playoffs
East Lake Golf Club
Grab your tickets to the culminating event of the FedExCup Playoffs and the PGA TOUR Regular Season. The TOUR’s top 30 global stars compete for the sport’s ultimate prize, the FedExCup. Since its inception, the Playoffs have concluded in Atlanta at East Lake Golf Club, the place where the legendary career of Bobby Jones was born. TOURChampionship.com
