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Will Benson Shares Healthy Habits!

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Happy 2024!

January 2024 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

Hey Y’all! In spite of what the diet industry might tell you, self-improvement is not about a quick fix. Sometimes January is full of false possibilities. “I resolve to do this and that” and none of it ever happens. But in 2024, in #SoFu, we are here to provide some practical tools to make your dreams—whether physical, mental, or financial—closer to becoming a reality! In our pages, we want to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health. In this January issue, you will find a profile on our own locally raised baseball heavy hitter, Will Benson and fitness tips from Jason Fletcher. No resolutions, just lifestyle changes! There are tips on protecting your mental health by creating a Zen meditation space in your sunroom. It’s a refreshing way to restart by going into 2024 renewed. Here’s to you! Let us share your goals for 2024! Post with the hashtag #SoFu2024Goals for a chance to be featured on our social media. We’re rooting for you! ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @ S O U T H F U LT O N L I F E S T Y L E

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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

10 28

Featured

24 28

Cultivating a Legacy

SoFu’s Will Benson and the Future Is Near Foundation Aim to Renovate Sandtown Park

Find Zen in Your New Sunroom Tips from The Sisters

South Carolina Serenity

Explore Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville

On the Cover

Departments

Will Benson was raised in SoFu and recently inducted into the South Fulton Hall of Fame. SoFu Lifestyle caught up with him to share his health habits and raise awareness for his project in Sandtown.

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE

Local Limelight PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Home Update LIFE + CULTURE

Our Town ARTS + CULTURE

Travel Journal TRAVEL

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JANUARY 2024

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Cultivating a Legacy SOFU’S WILL BENSON AND THE FUTURE IS NEAR FOUNDATION AIM TO RENOVATE SANDTOWN PARK

Community, sacrifice, and hard work have always been the driving forces of professional baseball player Will Benson’s ambitions. Since he was first diagnosed with asthma at a young age, Benson’s parents thought that getting involved in sports year-round would help with his breathing. While he managed to dip his toes into these various athletic waters like soccer and swimming, his purpose rested between his love of basketball and his consistent work ethic in baseball. However, by the time Benson was about to enter the Westminster School in Atlanta, he’d been playing AAU basketball less due to the time constraints of playing more than one sport. “It was very hard to go back and forth,” says Benson. “There was a point in time when I was doing AAU basketball, and I was doing travel baseball. Praise God for my hardworking, loving parents, but that’s a lot to keep up with.” Benson knew he had to make a decision. He recognized the energy and skills he was developing in baseball and decided to continue with the sport. “I saw the path… I saw my way to the big leagues in baseball,” he says. As he recognized the scouts that were frequently in attendance at his games during high school, it was clear that a new path was being forged for Benson’s future. “I was about to commit to Duke University, but I had an idea at that point that I was gonna be able to play

ARTICLE BY JUSTICE FREDERICK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE + CU LT U RE

professionally,” recalls Benson. By summer 2016, Major League Baseball had made Benson a first-round draft pick for the Cleveland Indians as an outfielder. Earlier this year, he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds. Baseball is not the only field in which Benson is cultivating a legacy for himself, as his philanthropic efforts are what also keep the 25-year-old athlete motivated. As a pillar of the SoFu, community, Benson founded his nonprofit, Future Is Near, to provide a support system to the youth of Atlanta. From homeless prevention initiatives to donating baseball gear to kids who are active in the sport, Benson has made it his responsibility to provide aid for our future leaders and athletes of tomorrow in every capacity possible. “Essentially, the mission of Future Is Near is to help where help is needed, especially when it comes to baseball,” says Benson. “It’s where my heart is.” These efforts were also recently recognized when Benson was inducted into the South Fulton Hall of Fame. Benson is making continuous efforts to help makeover his first baseball field from childhood, Sandtown Park in the heart of #SoFu, and has emphasized his passion for this project to get started soon. “I’ve stretched my brain, I’ve stretched my resources, I’ve stretched my connections as far as I can to get to this moment in redoing the field,” he declares. “I’ve got board members that are ready to work extensively on the programming to make it happen. I really want this for my community.” Future Is Near is currently accepting monetary donations for clothes, food, equipment, and other resources for those in need in Atlanta. For more information and to support the effort, visit f utureisnear.org.

“Essentially, the mission of Future Is Near is to help where help is needed, especially when it comes to baseball,” says Benson. “It’s where my heart is.” CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

“I’ve got board members that are ready to work extensively on the programming to make it happen. I really want this for my community.”

HERE’S WILL’S USUAL WORKOUT ROUTINE:

I work out every day of the week except Wednesday and the weekend. A normal workout day consists of gym, cages, and then running. Gym: Usually, I execute a workout that strengthens my whole body. I go back and forth between upper and lower body exercises. Some of the exercises I perform target specific baseball movements. To conclude my workout, I’ll do arm and core exercises. Cages: After I work out, I go to the batting cages to work on my craft. Running: After the cages, I will go to a park to complete my running drills. When I run, I focus on the technique to start with different drills to emphasize good running mechanics. To finish up, I’ll complete some acceleration runs and sprints. Tips for Young Athletes: Work out 4-5 times a week in the weight room. Focus on mobility and range of motion as well. These two go hand and hand. You want to be strong and mobile. On Nutrition: I would suggest staying away from the candy and no good snacks. You eat to fuel your body for performance. Our bodies are like the most expensive car that needs the highest quality gas. By eating well, you get the full benefit of your workout.

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Phillip Hogan Signing Services of America and Into SCUBA and Ocean Conservation

ARTICLE BY JUSTICE FREDERICK

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | P ROF E SSION AL SE RVICE S

Takes the Plunge!

In Business with

H E AR D O D A H FN “I OT TRAVE OT N T LIN AR BU G N I ES OTA , RIES.” “They were sending so much business that I had to hire other notaries. And someone said, ‘You could start a signing service.’” Phillip slowly transitioned out of signing documents himself and was ready to market for those in need of notaries. Signing Services of America was soon born and will celebrate its eighth anniversary next February with a database of over 65,000 signing agents!

As Phillip Hogan was getting ready to finish signing the required documents for a car in 2014, he had his first encounter with a traveling notary. “I had heard of notaries, but not traveling notaries,” he explained. Phillip was immediately intrigued by the idea, so following their business encounter, he asked this notary how he could get started for himself. Soon after, he received his notary commission in Cobb County and entered a new career path that would lead to even bigger opportunities. He took his time reviewing real estate documents, from their content to how and when papers need to be signed to prepare himself for mortgage signings. Phones began to ring. A call from a national title company in Clearwater, Florida, in 2016 influenced the next big idea: signing agent services.

Diving In! This business welcomed a new chapter of a better work-life balance for Phillip as well, giving him more experiences to interact with wildlife and give in to his love of the water and scuba diving. He discovered this leisure interest as a kid living in Long Island, where his family often partook in fun activities at the pool and beach. As an adult, Phillip spent four years in the U.S. Navy, traveling to continents like Europe and Africa. Thereafter, he became a certified scuba diver, even getting an advanced certification to dive as deep as 130 feet! Phillip shared that he recently returned home from a two-week expedition in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. “The wildlife in Santa Cruz is able to walk around like cats and dogs do in America. Seals, birds… they’re all just hangin’ around. The seals will get on a park bench!” Phillip’s passion for these bodies of water is not to be taken lightly, as he touched on the subject of climate change and preserving what’s left of wildlife. “We’re losing our oceans. At 66, I am determined to see as much of the underworld as I possibly can over the next 5 to 10 years,” he says. Phillip plans to take a trip each quarter of next year and dreams of going to the South Pacific to do more diving. For more about Phillip and Signing Services of America, visit signingservicesofamerica.com, email phogan@ signingservicesofamerica.com, or call 770.984.5399.

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OPTIMUM LIFESTYLES 20

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

I could begin and end this article with a plethora of fitness and nutrition tips that would definitely be useful, but I know that it will be more advantageous if I illuminate my uniquely unconventional approach to the world of fitness, health, wellness, and personal development. Obesity in the United States has reached epidemic proportions, with approximately 20% of children between the ages of 2 and 19 being obese and the prevalence of childhood obesity is slightly higher among Black and Hispanic

reunion, only to fall right back into old habits, potentially regaining twice as much weight as you previously needed to lose. View this “working out” more as a temporary solution for a lifelong need. Training induces cognition and cerebral functions of the mind, promoting a synergistic interaction with the body, a medium level of vibration. This process is a natural way of expunging the mind of limiting beliefs and habits that cause one to set goals in life that

A FITNESS, HEALTH, AND WELLNESS LIFESTYLE IS ESSENTIAL FOR LONGEVITY. children. A few obesity-related conditions include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lower testosterone in men, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and joint problems. Therefore, the once pragmatic approach to a healthy lifestyle has almost become redundant and is definitely underutilized, in desperate need of a paradigm shift in mindset, an applicable adaptation in tactics, and an evolutionary form of execution. Generally, when one contemplates becoming more “fit” or “healthy,” it typically consists of some ill-fated New Year’s resolution, which is apropos as I am writing this during that time of year. This mindset alone will yield minimal success, over time leaving one basically in the same place that they started: disillusioned, discouraged, and disheartened. What you think affects how you feel. How you feel affects your emotions. Emotions are vibrations and vibrations are magnetic. Health is your most valuable asset. Time is your most valuable resource. Mindset Let’s have a moment of clarity by outlining a universal and fundamental foundation for establishing the mindset for a fitness lifestyle. Working out is a temporary approach and a low level of vibration. Ladies, say you need to lose a few pounds to fit into a gown, and fellas, you need to lose a few pounds to fit into your suit before a wedding ceremony or class

are rarely cultivated enough to fully flourish. Making lifestyle changes is a high vibrational level, causing a visceral and introspective reaction that encompasses the aspects and attributes of training. This universal power is transmuted by the thought and action of focus that once it is harnessed toward anything in life for a significant amount of time, it will result in the assimilation and alignment of the mind and body with the spirit. This universal connection embodies what I like to call the “Divine Ds”: discipline, determination, diligence, and dedication. A fitness, health, and wellness lifestyle is essential for longevity. It decreases the stress hormone cortisol naturally and safely regulates the body’s release of the pleasure hormone dopamine and endorphins on a physiological level. As I have intimated, an optimum fitness, health, and wellness lifestyle is adjacent to mental, physical, and spiritual alignment, all of which will manifest you living, feeling, thinking, and looking better on a consistent basis, making the journey of life a virtue. This is my challenge to you all: Let no more excuses become your permanent resolution. Jason Fletcher is a certified PT, WLS, FNS, transformational and personal development coach. Contact him or learn more at www.olbg14.com, email Godivine@icloud.com, or call 904.479.6016 (office)/904.553.6531 (cell).

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F i n d Z e n i n Yo u r New S u n ro o m

H OM E U P DAT E | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Homes that offer a sitting area where a space can be designed to unwind, relax, and take in the sun are wellness havens. Barbara Elliott, principal designer at The Sisters and Company located in Stone Mountain, provided her client with a “zenful”-designed sunroom that brought the outdoors inside. The furnishings are wrapped in natural wicker textures, the artwork exudes a beautiful abstract ocean design, and the walls are finished in Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray. This sunroom is a great place to retreat for the soul to relax, sit back, and reflect on the day. The Sisters and Company is owned by sisters, Barbara and Jennifer “B&J,” who uphold an ALLWOMAN design firm that curates luxury interior design in the Metro Atlanta area. Twenty-six years ago, they formed plans to start a new venture in design and have made their mark since. The Sisters and Company have designed over 1,000 residential spaces, hold the title of being No. 1 nationwide in sales, and have multiple Dream Room awards within the Decorating Den franchise. They are also featured in top design publications nationwide.

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CA M ERON jones

SOFU’S UP AND COMING COMPOSER ARTICLE BY JADA GARNER

Meet Cameron Jones, a talented and creative musician and composer who has established a name for himself in the music industry. Cameron’s musical journey kicked off at Westlake High School, where he found his love of composition and arrangement. Cameron’s involvement in multiple bands during his high school years demonstrated his devotion to music. He participated in the marching band, symphonic band, and jazz band, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to his craft. During this time, he honed his abilities and learned the

Cameron (center) is pictured with Assistant Director Jenkins and President of TSU Dr. Glenda Glover

O UR TOWN | A RTS + CULTURE

His ability to convey the essence and energy of a marching band through his compositions has left an indelible impression on all who have had the pleasure of hearing his work. essentials of music, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. Cameron’s participation in planning songs for the school’s musical production was one of his significant accomplishments at Westlake High School. He graduated in 2022 and began the next chapter of his story at Tennessee State University. Taking cues from classic musicals like “Sophisticated Ladies,” “The Wiz,” and “Dreamgirls,” Cameron’s musical journey continued to flourish when he composed his first symphonic piece, “Winter End.” This landmark achievement prompted him to write a piece for the Nashville African American Wind Ensemble that exemplifies his inventiveness and passion for his craft, titled, “A Floral Overture.” Cameron showcased his talent on a larger scale when he composed music for an advertisement featuring the WHS Marching Lions. His ability to convey the essence and energy of a marching band through his compositions has left an indelible impression on all who have had the pleasure of hearing his work.

Cameron embodies innovation, talent, and a love of music. A rising star, Cameron is destined to accomplish enormous success in the world because of his unwavering commitment and friendly demeanor. He persists in pushing limitations and leaving a legacy on the music industry, from his modest start at Westlake to his accomplishments at Tennessee State. He is sure to captivate every audience with his exceptional talent and contagious love of music. Cameron’s passion for music isn’t his only one. When he is not absorbed in the realms of composition and arrangement, he likes to attend plays, where he is able to enjoy the creative expression of others. He also finds comfort in the kitchen, honing his culinary abilities and preparing delectable dishes. When he seeks to let loose and have a bit of fun, he laces up his skates and rolls through the rink, relishing the liberty and happiness that comes with it.

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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

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It ’s e a s y t o s p e n d h ou rs o r a d ay s u r rou n d e d by t h e n at u r a l s c e n e r y.

Serenity is what I was looking for and serenity is what I got with the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville in Greenville, South Carolina — just about 3 hours by car from metropolitan Atlanta. Having opened in August 2022 with a September grand opening, the boutique lodge on the falls of the Reedy River in downtown Greenville delivers countless opportunities for guests to unwind and escape the daily mix of life demands and business — with areas both indoors and outdoors for lounging, along with its Poseidon Spa. Featuring 187 rooms, a presidential suite and two lofts, Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville showcases Native American works of art, including Navajo jewelry for sale — as a way of recognizing Native Americans who were prominent in the Greenville area, including a large Cherokee makeup in Greenville County. For a quick resting spot, there’s the lodge’s lobby with a center fireplace that includes rocks from beaches in Mexico. And if your agenda includes curling up with a good book, or just sitting and getting in some downtime, you’ll find it easy to make your way to the property’s library, surrounded by natural elements — as is the case with the lodge as a whole. Among the natural elements in the library, a personal gun collection of Richard Kessler, chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection — which owns Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville and other boutique properties around the nation — makes for a conversation piece. But that doesn’t mean the library doesn’t quiet down enough for taking in that book or simply relaxing and reflecting.

Other conversation pieces can be found in the Grand Bohemian Gallery — a trademark of Kessler properties for showcasing original works of art from local and international artists. For more on the Greenville Grand Bohemian, please visit kesslercollection.com/bohemian-greenville. Outdoors, there’s no shortage of options for taking in nature as you overlook Falls Park and the river’s streams — from park tables to swings — the latter of which this writer was looking forward to, and that proved the most competitive to nab! But once I finally managed to secure a seat on one with my teenage daughter, I also struggled to give it up, like so many others around us! It’s easy to spend hours or a day surrounded by the natural scenery. Extend your opportunity to take in nature with a stroll along a walking trail around the property and/or while making a trip by foot to grab a bite to eat, get ice cream or have drinks. But leaving in search of food isn’t a necessity, as the property serves up dining choices such as Between the Trees and Spirit & Bower. Local farm potatoes and shrimp and grits (minus the pork) made for some tasty choices for this writer and her family. Of course, your trip doesn’t have to be completely laid back, as there are opportunities for exploring Greenville. But if relaxing and recharging are on your mind — whether that includes at some point diving into the action — you’ll find a getaway that you’ll want to make the trek to time and again. After all, serenity awaits. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

Photo by Brandon Barre of Hero Images, Courtesy of the Kessler Foundation kesslercollection.com/bohemian-greenville

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Photo by Brandon Barre of Hero Images, Courtesy of the Kessler Foundation kesslercollection.com/bohemian-greenville

O ut d o o rs , t h e re ’s n o s h o r t a ge of o pt io n s fo r t a k i n g i n n at u re a s you ove rlo o k Fa l l s P a rk a n d t h e r i ve r ’s s t re a m s .

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