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Let's Go Back to School! E D U C ATI O N

SALUTE TO #SO FU GRADS!

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Time Flies!

August 2022 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Hey #SoFu! Whew! That summer flew by! But it was fun! I see you, #SoFu, out there living, traveling, going to camp, enjoying the great outdoors, and having a ball! It's already time to buy school supplies and school clothes and get back to the books. In this issue, we showcase our 2022 grads! It's been a pleasure to get to know each one of them! You make us so proud! Enjoy the end of the summer, y'all and happy back to school!

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Proverbs 3:5-6 SOFU Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the South Fulton area’s 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 SOFU Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Salute to the Class of 2022!

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Now Open

Must See

Artist’s Palette

Local Limelight

Pet Friendly

Travel Journal

Our Town

Congrats #SoFuGrads!

18 Murphy and the FamLEE Meet the South Atlanta Family!

22 8 Tips for Breaking into the Film and TV Industry in Atlanta 30 Meet Richmond! American Cocker Spaniel

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Charisse Kinion Let’s Go Back to School

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AUGUST 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

First Day Fulton and Back to School Drive in Fulton The district's back to school kickoff, First Day Fulton, will be held on Saturday, July 30 at Banneker and North Springs high schools from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This fun-filled community event will host families across the district providing resources and school supplies. Families must sign up online beforehand if they need to register their students at the event. Love T. Nolan Elementary will host a Back-to-School community drive on August 4 from 3-6 p.m.

Join Morris Brown's Restoration Class! Admissions for 2022 is open! Build your future here. Degrees offered include Church Music, General Studies, Music Vocal Performance and Hospitality Management, to name a few. Visit MorrisBrown.edu or admissions@morrisbrown.edu for more info.

2022-2023 Rialto Series Season of Power & Spirit The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University announces its season on September 15 with "Traces: A Speech to African Nations." Other performances include: • Vocal virtuosa Jane Monheit on Oct. 1 • Powerful female a cappella group from Zimbabwe, Nobuntu, on Oct. 15 • Latin jazz musician/composer Arturo Sandoval on Nov. 12 • Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. on Jan. 21 • Internationally acclaimed Martha Graham Dance Company on Feb. 5

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

It’s the small things that add more life! The City of South Fulton offers its residents something that we’re all learning, once again, to appreciate—quality of life. The big things—malls, franchises, big box chain stores—are not necessarily the things that make communities more livable. Little things often do that. With limitations on globetrotting, the essence of travel and experiencing new things is not only found in far off places. Exploring South Fulton and supporting local businesses can be fun and plays a key role in sustaining the community and showcasing it as a viable destination. Small business, local merchants, family-owned restaurants. Neighbors whose names you actually know. These things all help to make communities more livable.

Salute to the Class of 2022! ARTICLE BY SHANDRA HILL SMITH

Congrats #SoFuGrads!

NOW OP E N | ED U CATION

NATA L IE JACOB S WE ST L A K E H I G H S C H O O L

Holding both the titles of valedictorian of her Westlake High School class of 2022 and of 2021 to 2022 drum major, Natalie Jacobs rounded out her days at Westlake High School as part of Beta Club and Student Government as a senior representative. She also performed with the school’s jazz, concert, and marching bands. The Magnet, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate scholar is a member of Girl Scouts and serves as a volunteer with the City of South Fulton. At Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, she plans to major in politics in order to pursue a career in environmental law. She also looks to join the world renowned FAMU Marching 100.

ZAC H A RY JOH NS ON WE ST L A K E H I G H S C H O O L

Zachary E. Johnson has been a resident of South Fulton since the age of 5. Zachary is very active in his community and is passionate about volunteerism. He serves on the Junior Usher Board, Junior Choir and has been a Youth speaker at Antioch Baptist Church North under Pastor Kenneth Alexander. He is an active member of the Hank Stewart Foundation and has been for over 10 years. It is very rare to find Zachary without his drawing pencils. Zachary will major in Cartoon Animation and Computer Science at Bowie State University in Maryland in the fall.

ASH A L A H WR IGH T L A N G STO N H U G H E S H I G H S C H O O L

Ashalah Michelle Wright is an honor graduate of Langston Hughes High School and holds an Associates Degree from Georgia Military College. Wright also had the opportunity to attend Fulton Co. Career Academy's Culinary & Hospitality Program which prepared her to continue her entrepreneurial career in the food industry and business. She is the Owner & Operator of Cook Me Up a Notch. She has extensive community service experience. She has received the following honors: National High School Honor Society, Treasurer of the Junior Beta Club, President of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) , NAACP- Atlanta Youth Council Member, and Teachers of Atlanta Excellence in Business Award. She was a 2020 Steve Harvey’s Disney Dreamer Award Recipient and served as the National Black Chef’s Network Atlanta Chapter President. Wright has committed to attend Hampton University and study International Business & Economics. CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

NA BIH KA R IM H A P EV I L L E C H A RT E R CA R E E R ACA D E M Y

The valedictorian of Hapeville Charter Career Academy, Nabih Karim has participated in several clubs such as Future Business Leaders of America, Skills USA, Student Government Association, and National Beta Club. She also has been inducted into the National Honor Society and is a student ambassador through the Student Ambassador Program of the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office. She earned an associate degree from Georgia Military College. Karim plans to study biology as part of Georgia State University’s Honors College.

NA DIA T E T E H A P EV I L L E C H A RT E R CA R E E R ACA D E M Y

Nadia Tete graduated number five in her class with a 3.97 GPA, finishing at Hapeville Charter Career Academy in three years as an early graduate. She was a member of the Student Government Association and the Student Ambassador Program of the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office. As of fall 2022, she is planning to start her journey of earning her bachelor’s degree in exercise science at Georgia State University. She plans to join a physical therapy program and to become a sports physical therapist upon graduation.

GRACE URUKPEOGHENE OKPURUKRE CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

As a Creekside High School student, Grace Urukpeoghene Okpurukre took honors, Advanced Placement, and Dual Enrollment classes as well as participated in Beta Club, National Honors Society, National Society of High School Scholars, and Future Business Leaders of America. Raised in a Nigerian household, she participated in marching, concert, and jazz bands as a member and as a section leader in marching band for the horn section and first chair French horn player in concert band. Okpurukre plans to attend the University of Georgia on a prelaw track to major in business management and afterward move on to law school to prepare to become a corporate attorney.

NOW OP E N | ED U CATION

AYOMIDE OREOFEOLUWA FAYEMI CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

Ayomide Oreofeoluwa Fayemi’s parents knew life as an immigrant wouldn’t be easy, so they remained steadfast at emphasizing the importance of education to her. Fayemi listened and went on to graduate as salutatorian for the Class of 2022 at Creekside High School. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and having relocated to the United States at age 10 with her family, Fayemi was involved in Academic Team, Korean Club and track team at her school. In 11th grade, she became captain of the Academic Team. She has received awards and recognitions such as Governor’s Honors Program nominee (twice), Quest Bridge College Prep Scholar, Quest Bridge National Match Scholar and Golden Door Scholar. Fayemi plans to study chemistry at Washington University in St. Louis on a full scholarship. After that, she intends to receive an M.D. and a Ph.D. and become a groundbreaking medical scientist. She hopes to open research facilities in Africa and break the stigma around HIV/AIDS.

JAZMINE FOL ASA DE A FOLAYA N CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

Jazmine Folasade Afolayan has a love for learning new things and hopes one day to be a bright light in a dark world in any way possible. At Creekside High School, Afolayan graduated top of her class as valedictorian of the Class of 2022. She also was PAGE STAR Student 2022, for having the highest SAT test score. She was involved in debate, sports, band and the French Honor Society. Born to an immigrant family — with her mother from Jamaica and her father from Nigeria — Afolayan attended Evoline C. West Elementary and Bear Creek Middle schools before entering Creekside High School. She enjoys playing video games and discovering new ways to express her vast imagination.

SYE A R A DU N L A P H OWA R D U N I V E R S I T Y

Syeara Dunlap can now add college graduate to her list of accomplishments. The former Westlake High School student graduated from Howard University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. While at Howard, she was the site coordinator for Oakland, California, and Baltimore, Maryland, for the organization Alternative Spring Break, which is a community service program purposed to provide over 500 students with a week of impactful experiences through serving in domestic and international communities.

Graduates compiled by April Rogerson and Erikka Searles Mitchell. AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

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Murphy and the

FamLEE Meet the South Atlanta Family! 18

M UST SE E | EN TERTA INME NT

Murphy Lee exploded on the music scene as the youngest member of the multi-platinum selling group St. Lunatics while he was still in high school. He was featured on Nelly’s Country Grammar in 2000 and stood out among music industry heavyweights like Jermaine Dupri, Snoop Dogg, and P. Diddy in the “Welcome to Atlanta” remix. His first single, “Shake a Tailfeather,” featuring P. Diddy and Snoop, landed on the Bad Boys II soundtrack, and soared to the top of the charts to become a #1 hit. It sold over 2 million copies and won a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. Lee’s first platinum solo album, “Murphy’s Law,” reached #8 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured his biggest solo, “Wat Da Hook Gon Be,” with Jermaine Dupri and made it to #6 on the Billboard Hot Rap charts. “Luv Me Baby,” produced by Jazze Pha, also landed on the Top 40. After leaving his major record deal as an individual artist, still signed as a St. Lunatic, Murphy Lee decided to educate himself on the business and started UCME Entertainment in 2008. He has since released five albums independently, including the latest, “2nd Time Around,” which Lee says represents a mindset. “It’s a promise to myself to respect the past, enjoy the present, and create the future,” Lee says. His first shot in the business set the stage for the Murphy Lee business, which required him to grind hard to build a successful brand. A calm, humble soul who doesn’t try to keep up with The Joneses, the superstar says he plans to enjoy the fruits of his labor this time. He especially looks forward to road life, visiting beautiful places with his day ones, fans, and the FamLee, a name he affectionately uses to refer to his wife and three children. They all contribute to the family business, each bringing unique gifts and talents to the table and steadfast love and support for each other. “FamLee is everything,” says Lee. “It’s imperative to me to do business as a family, finding ways to implement everyone into the plan to build generational wealth.” We all have our own projects but I’m loving the ideas and ventures that we have together that will benefit us all. Lee says, “We want to make sure that our grandkids’ grandkids’ best friends are good.”

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WRIGHT-MATTHEWS

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

“I don’t chase fame but enjoy where I am in life. I appreciate my past. I’m excited about tomorrow.”

Lee’s wife, Seviin Li, a shining star in her own right, is a singer, songwriter, and actress. Currently, she is recording original work, performing live shows honoring music legend Tina Turner in front of crowds of 6,000 or more, and on tour with Devyne Stephens in “Grown Man Issues” starring Willie Taylor, Brian White, Latocha, and Claudia Jordan. Murphy and Seviin met in St. Louis, Missouri, in high school. They participated in many similar activities, including her being captain of the cheerleading squad and Lee on the basketball team. They ran into one another again while Lee was touring with St. Lunatics, and she was traveling with Marvin Webster’s “A Fool for Love.” When the two reconnected, they realized how much they had in common yet they were very different and from different walks of life and became good friends. The two creatives eventually started making music together, and Murphy

M UST SE E | EN TERTA INME NT

Lee featured Seviin Li on his debut album “Murphy’s Law.” A trip to Atlanta to record at Stankonia Studios would lead to the start of a forever union. The pair produced the best yet with three exceptional children whose names set the standard: Essence Imani, 26, Righteous, 17, and Divine, 6. Seviin Li says, “We named them so that they would always speak life into them when people speak their names.” Gifted and uniquely made, each have contributed to their dad’s work. Essence lends her beautiful vocals; “Righteous” introduced Murphy Lee’s Documentary Album, and Divine is featured on “2nd Time Around.” The FamLee has also made appearances in several music videos with the Grammy Award winner. Essence sings and acts, Righteous is an athlete and aspiring children’s book author, and Divine’s “World Adventures” show is available on YouTube.

Whole food vegans for twenty years, Essence says, “Food also brings us together. We connect through meals, conversation, and adventures!” Seviin enjoys vegan cooking and one of the FamLee’s goals is to one day open a vegan restaurant. A wise Murphy Lee’s final words are a lesson for us. “I don’t chase fame but enjoy where I am in life. I appreciate my past. I’m excited about tomorrow. Mistakes lead to maturity, and maturity leads to peace. My motivation is my family, and my love for life itself is my inspiration. I want to participate in the rebuilding of our culture. Do my part.” Fans can text Murph at 314.408.TICS (8427) or visit www.newmurph.com. More on Seviin Li can be found at www.seviinlimusic.com.

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8 Tips for Breaking into the Film and TV Industry in Atlanta

Photo by Steven Van

ARTICLE BY MANDISA JOHNSON

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

Looking to break into the Film and TV Industry here in Atlanta? Read my top eight tips below.

1. DISCOVER YOUR “WHY?” Why are you considering a career in film and television? Do you have what it takes to be in front of the camera? Please note—nothing in this industry happens overnight. It could take years for your career to take off. Be sure to exercise patience and know that hearing “no” is part of the process. Holding on to your “why” will help you navigate through these tough times.

2. WORK AS A BACKGROUND ARTIST Working as a Background Artist has a lot of benefits, where you will learn on-set etiquette, terminology, and determine if it’s a right fit for you. Finding work as a background artist is simple - especially if you’re on any social media platforms. Below are a few Facebook pages where you can find work. Be sure to “like” and follow these pages to keep up-to-date on their casting calls. Extras Casting Atlanta Bill Marinella Casting, Inc. Central Casting On Location Casting

3. I’VE WORKED AS A BACKGROUND ARTIST. NOW WHAT? Once you have worked as a Background Artist, it may be time for you to start looking for speaking roles. Oftentimes, local creatives look for talent to fill speaking roles. They post their needs on social media. You may notice most of these roles are unpaid but don’t allow that to discourage you! Opting to work for free will provide you an opportunity to get an IMDB credit, and gives you material for your demo reel. Below is a short list of where to find speaking roles: Atlanta Film Production Group Atlanta Film Community Atlanta Actors Network

4. TAKE ACTING CLASSES Every great actor takes acting classes or workshops to hone their craft. There are several reasons why an aspiring actor should take acting classes. First, you will see a boost in your confidence. Secondly, you will learn how to communicate effectively and make new friends. Lastly, you will learn acting techniques that will assist with taking your career to the next level. Short list of Acting Classes in Atlanta Dwayne Boyd’s Premier Actors Network The Alliance Theatre Catapult Acting Studios

5. GET HEADSHOTS Once you decide you want to book bigger roles, you will no longer be able to submit a selfie. You will need a commercial and a theatrical headshot taken by someone who specializes in headshot photography for actors. FYI—casting directors

have reviewed hundreds, if not thousands of headshots. Do not submit a selfie because they will know the difference. Spend the money to get professional headshots done. Remember, it’s an investment. Short list of professional Headshot Photographers Tracy Bosworth Page Dwayne Boyd Photography Ira Carmichael Photogrpahy

6. CREATE A DEMO REEL If you have had several speaking roles on a few projects, gather the footage and get at least a one-minute demo reel created by someone who can assist in that area. Most professional demo reel locations do have the option where they can create a custom demo reel for you if you don’t have any footage. Short list of Demo Reel Companies Cart Reel Films Compass Actor Services Atlanta LA Reels

7. ATTEND NETWORKING EVENTS As someone looking to break into the film and TV scene (no matter the market), networking is essential. Vibrant Web Creations states, “connecting with the outside world by establishing relationships, and by showing what you have to offer is one of the strongest tools you can use to expand.” In other words, don’t only connect with others behind the keyboard. I’m not saying, don’t try to reach out to them via social media or email. Those are great tools! However, ask if you can either meet virtually, or for an in-person coffee.

8. SEARCH FOR A TALENT AGENT Once you’ve completed steps one through seven, it’s time to search for a talent agent. One of the best ways to find a talent agent is to ask some of the friends you’ve met in acting classes or those you’ve networked with what talent agency they are signed to. Just a precaution, never submit to anyone who asks you to submit anything other than a professional headshot, demo reel, and an actor’s resume. If you are asked to pay money, run far away! Talent agents NEVER ask for upfront money or pressure you into signing their contract. A talent agent ONLY gets paid when their talent books a job through an agency. Below are a few talent agencies here in Atlanta: Smith and Young Talent Carol Shaginaw Talent Ursula Wiedmann Models and Talent Let these tips guide you as you begin your acting career. Be patient, work hard and invest in yourself. It will be well worth it! Mandisa A. Johnson, MS, MFA, is the founder of Atlanta FIlm and TV, an entertainment journalist and coach. She can be reached at atlantafilmandtv@gmail.com. For more information, please visit atlantafilmandtv.com.

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

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NIESHA CRAWFORD

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EN T E RTAI NME NT

NETFLIX PRODUCER BASED RIGHT HERE IN #SOFU

Nieshia Crawford is a multi-talented television producer with a passion for storytelling. Emmy nominated and with over a decade of experience in the industry, Nieshia’s grit, wit, and unique ability to tell compelling stories in an authentic way has captivated audiences across a multitude of genres. Originally born in Charlotte, NC, Nieshia found her way to Atlanta as a student at Clark Atlanta University in the mass media arts program. She worked as a student in the University’s local CAU-TV station and later pursued her masters at Savannah College of Art and Design. Nieshia was fortunate to gain two black women mentors as professors at the respective institutions. It was with the support of these women that she networked and began her professional career. With a one-year-old son, young family, and lots of determination, at the recommendation of her mentors she quit her full time Senior position at Emory University to follow her dreams of being a television producer. A leap of faith that returned tenfold. Since then Nieshia has crafted and honed her talents, possessing the capacity to connect with stories and people from all walks of life. Over the past few years Nieshia has worked on hundreds of sets around the country bringing along her knowledge, enthusiasm, and a wealth of experience everywhere she goes. Her work has aired on many networks including Netflix, HBO, VH1, and Bravo to name a few. Most recently, she served as co-executive producer for the Netflix hit series “Love is Blind.” Her mission is very simple: to diversify the entertainment world by not just the players on screen but also the ones behind the camera. Particularly as it relates to women, she hopes to serve as both an example and a resource that being successful within your industry doesn’t require choosing between your career and your family, “We can have it all,” she insists. Anything is possible in communities like SoFu where Niesha grew her family and her future. AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

MEET RICHMOND! AMERICAN COCKER SPANIEL Richmond Brathwaite loves the southwest Atlanta home he shares with his family: William, Tonya and Ben. Bred by a champion dog show handler, Richmond was thoughtfully chosen as the family pet in April of 2020 during the onset of the pandemic. With more time being spent at home, the Brathwaites were easily able to train Richmond and help him become acclimated to their family and neighborhood. Richmond was born on April Fool’s Day, however he is quite intelligent, intuitive and clever. Just as American Cocker Spaniels are known for their large expressive eyes and long furry ears, they also have a reputation of possessing affectionate and friendly personalities with a gentle temperament. Richmond, named after Tonya’s hometown in Virginia, epitomizes the warm and tender reputation of Cocker Spaniels and he especially loves kids and other dogs. If you would like to see your pet in our pages, please email emitchell@citylifestyle.com.

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Why This Quintessential California Colony Should Be Your Next Travel Destination!

There’s a reason people visit the southern California coastal city of Laguna Beach an average of five times in their lifetime. From its stunning ocean side bluffs overlooking 30 Pacific Ocean beaches and coves to its fusion of beautiful canyon wilderness with tranquil ocean life, fresh-ingredients cuisine and eclectic arts culture, Laguna Beach is a time-honored destination full of vibrant and invigorating seaside experiences. This month, our City Lifestyle community of luxury travel enthusiasts are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Laguna Beach to present a breathtaking view into this idyllic West Coast artist community. Plus, together, we have created an exclusive GIVEAWAY opportunity to win a 2-night trip for two. Get ready to experience the upscale and creative culture alongside the lively, yet quirky personality of Laguna Beach!

WIN a 2-night GETAWAY to Laguna Beach! City Lifestyle and Visit Laguna Beach are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Laguna Beach, CA with the ultimate Southern California escape encompassing scenic canyon and seaside views, fresh chef-driven cuisine and local recreation. This giveaway closes on August 31, 2022. This trip must be taken by August 31, 2023. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitlaguna on Instagram and tag friends and family on the August 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

$2,300 LAGUNA BEACH GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • •

2 nights at The Ranch at Laguna Beach Breakfast at Harvest Tickets to The Laguna Playhouse Guided Kayaking Tour with Laguna Ethos Tickets to Laguna Art Museum $200 Visa Gift Card for Dining T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

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Retirement Accounts for the SelfEmployed The COVID pandemic has caused many individuals to re-evaluate the desire to be a W-2 employee and to seek the benefits of self-employment. As great as that sounds, these individuals forgo the ability to participate in company-sponsored retirement plans (which are typically 401k or 403b plans). So, we often get asked what options are available to the entrepreneur to assist them with retirement savings. The most common tool for a small business owner to obtain a 401k-type account is the Simplified Employee Pension Plan (more commonly known as SEP). This plan has many of the same benefits that employees receive when working for a company and contributing to their 401k plan. Here are a few benefits of a SEP plan: they provide tax-sheltered contributions, are easy to set up and manage, allow for flexible contributions based upon cash flow, have low administrative costs, and offer more investment flexibility. The next consideration when evaluating SEP plans is the annual contribution limits as defined by the IRS. In 2022, SEP contributions cannot exceed 25% of the individual’s earnings, or $61,000 (whichever is less). The key thing to remember is that these are pre-tax contributions and therefore reduce an individual’s tax liability. These contribution limits are subject to change every year, so please consult with a financial advisor or tax specialist to see what applies for any given year. While this is a high-level summary, there are numerous other factors that need to be considered in deciding what type of plan is best for each individual or small business. Seraphim Wealth Advisors specializes in the evaluation and implementation of retirement plans for self-employed individuals and small business owners. Please contact us for a more in-depth analysis. Eric Wimbush, CFA Email: ewimbush@seraphimwealth.com Office: 404-381-2272

O UR TOWN | FIN AN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

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