SOFU, GA March 2024

AT HOME WITH EUDOXIE BRIDGES

Thank you for your leadership and service with THE CITY OF SOUTH FULTON

District 6

Councilwoman Linda Pritchett

District 7

Councilwoman Carmalitha Gumbs District 2

Councilwoman Helen Willis District 3

Councilwoman Catherine Rowell District 1

District 5

Councilwoman Keosha Bell

Councilwoman Natasha Williams-Brown

WOMEN BEHIND THE CITY OF SOUTH FULTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Teresa Parhams Economic Development Economic Development

Karaey Davis

Mercedes Miller Development Authority

Phyllis Minter Development Authority Old National District

Fredericka Jones Tourism

Joyce Hackett-Scales Downtown Development Authority

Dr. Sylvia Carter Red Oak District

Kathryn Earley Tourism

September Cooper Development Authority

Josephine Smart Red Oak District

Kimberly Mays Development Authority

Sherie Phillips Old National District

Stacey Williams Development Authority

Linda Hubbert Old National District

Dana Tucker-Davis Development Authority

Sandra Green Red Oak District

When I Think of Home, I Think of a Place...

Where do you call home?  I consider home wherever I feel like I belong. SoFu’s eight cities certainly are home for me. Sofu will always be home and so many women business owners live in SoFu.  In honor of SoFu International Women's Month, we salute each of you!

Congrats to our own sales associate Antwan Lange, recently named Lime's Sr. Manager of Government Affairs for the Southeast. Lime is the world’s largest shared electric vehicle company. Formerly Director of Government and Community Affairs for Atlanta Technical College, Lang has been a leader in local, state, and federal government for over a decade. In his new role, Lang will lead Lime's southeastern region encompassing Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi.

We hope that you enjoy this Home issue! And what better way to celebrate March than to advertise with us and support business women in our local #SoFu community! Welcome home!

MICHELLE

Michelle Taylor Willis

michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

Antwan Lang | antwan.lang@citylifestyle.com

Justice Frederick, Jasmine Tiffany,

T. Cooper, Juanita Ramos

Blake Mistich, Steve Rawls,

Trap Music Museum is an interactive experience that uses art to showcase the rich culture of trap music, one of the most popular genres of music today.

“TRAP MUSIC MUSEUM ISN’T JUST ABOUT MUSIC BUT ALSO ABOUT THE CULTURE THAT INSPIRES.”

404-367-0860 | TRAPMUSICMUSEUM.US

630 TRAVIS STREET, NO RTHWEST ATLANTA

HOURS : MONDAY - WENDESDAY: CLOSED

THURSDAY: 4:00PM - 10:00PM (SIP AND TRAP HAPPY HOUR)

FRIDAY: 4:00PM - 12:00AM | SATURDAY: 12:00PM - 12:00AM

SUNDAY: 12:00PM - 10:00PM

CHECK OUT OUR ESCAPE ROOM | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

SOUL SERENE BRIDE 40LBS DOWN!

1-3: Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Atlanta fundraising gala benefits historically Black colleges and universities. Photography by Caselove

Designated

Nestled just minutes from the world's busiest airport, Union City stands proud as a renowned residence of influential brands like Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED

Atlanta Metro Studios, and many others

Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union

monthly

Carolina Handling Approved as DOD SkillBridge Partner

Carolina Handling has been approved to provide job training opportunities for military service members transitioning to the civilian workforce. DOD SkillBridge allows active-duty service members and select groups of the National Guard and Reserves within 180 days of their separation date the opportunity to gain civilian work experience through job training, employment skills training, apprenticeships and internships and gives industry partners access to a highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost.

So Much More Than Wine!

Fall in Love With Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas, is simply enchanting! Founded in 1846 by 120 German immigrants, the town’s cultural roots run deep. Fredericksburg is not just a destination but rather a journey into history and culture. Here are five fabulous reasons to add Fredericksburg to your travel radar!

1. Grae’s Casita: A Boutique Experience Like No Other

My exploration of Fredericksburg led me to Grae’s Casita, a boutique experience that defies expectations. Every corner, from the yellow front door to the furthest floral print wallpaper, whispered tales of creativity and Texan charm.

2. Blackchalk Home & Laundry: Where Style Meets Purpose

Immersed in the layers and textures of frocks and furnishings, each one tells a powerful story. From custom hat designs to jewelry that supports women in Africa, Blackchalk is a stylish haven draped in purpose, power, and a commitment to global change.

3. Woerner Warehouse Cafe: A Culinary Wonderland

Woerner Warehouse Cafe is located in Texas Hill Country, a cafe within an iconic

feed store offering mouthwatering dishes including their tempting BBQ chicken pizza. Chef Angela’s creativity pairs with locally sourced produce. The Becher Porche Jean Project aids women in need. Fashion with a purpose was hosted by Carol Hicks Bolton Antiquities.

4. Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Tasting Room: A Gastronomic Journey

Within the historic Das Peach Haus, the tasting room is a celebration of Texas wines and culinary adventures. The myriad combinations of wines and sauces create a symphony for the tastebuds, an ode to the 50th anniversary of Fischer & Wieser Specialty Foods.

5. Dietz Distillery: Exploring Old World Distilling Techniques

A journey through Fredericksburg is incomplete without a visit to Dietz Distillery, located on-site at Fischer & Wieser. A small artisan distillery practicing old world distilling techniques, Dietz Distillery provides an immersive experience for visitors to learn about the process and history of alcohol distillation. Take a step back in time!

I was captivated by the constant sipping of grape varietals and the influence of a community with global vision.

“

Photo by Steve Rawls

Courtesy of Fredericks CVB

Courtesy of Fredericks CVB

RS Hanna Art Gallery Photo by Blake Mistich

SoFu is Home for Councilwoman Natasha Williams-Brown

ARTICLE BY JUSTICE FREDERICK

Carol Moseley Braun. Barbara Jordan. Shirley Chisholm. These were the Black women that Councilwoman Natasha WilliamsBrown watched, followed, and was inspired by to become the activist she is today.

Reflecting on her 30-year political journey, Councilwoman Williams-Brown attributes her trajectory as both an activist and community advocate to her undergraduate education. As both a full-time student and employee of Georgia State, she was involved with many student organizations like the Black Student Alliance and pledging Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. It was Williams-Brown’s involvement that also helped contribute to the campus protests. As a result of this advocacy for the Black student population, the institution established its Office of African American Student Services & Programs, as well as the implementation of African Studies courses.

From those protests to working under previous Governor Roy Barnes, Councilwoman Williams-Brown knew that she was on the right path. Williams-Brown’s ambition to get involved in her communities continues. She is currently the Councilwoman for District 6 in South Fulton and has also held executive volunteer positions for groups like her PTA.  “A neighborhood, a community, the spaces that we live in are only as good as you make them,” she stated. “ I think that’s very integral to who I am as a person… I’m not just gonna sit back and let the status quo be the status quo.”

Even in her selfless passion for her work, Councilwoman Williams-Brown recognizes that there can be hardships one faces when involved in politics. “I think the most difficult part of being a councilwoman is having to deal with the reality that not everybody has gone into politics for the good of the whole.” Despite those setbacks, she shows no signs of slowing down and plans to use every resource possible to give District 6 the community it deserves. “I think as long as there’s a need, I’m willing to fight to see that need met.”

Councilwoman Williams-Brown lives in SoFu with her husband and daughter.

NATASHA WILLIAMS-BROWN HOMETOWN

Breaking Cigar Industry Barriers

ARTICLE BY JUANITA RAMOS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEO MARSHALL AND MIA YAKEL

MONICA COLEMAN, OWNER OF STANLEY’S CIGAR LOUNGE, WANTS YOU TO MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME

Photography by Mia Yakel

“Stanley’s

Cigar Lounge is

named in honor of Monica Coleman's late grandfather, Stanley Franklin, the first entrepreneur in her family.

Allow us to introduce Monica Coleman, a Hampton University graduate and visionary Black woman entrepreneur reigning supreme as the proprietor of Stanley’s Cigar Lounge. Stanley’s Cigar Lounge stands as a revolution, championing the importance of diversity and inclusivity in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

“Yes, I am an entrepreneur,” she says, “but I am also a mother, and I don’t miss those special moments. I prioritize my family over everything, and that will never change. No one would question a man regarding his decision—I will always do what is right for me.”

Monica is one of very few Black female sole proprietors in the cigar and tobacco industry, and is named in honor of her late grandfather, Stanley Franklin, the first entrepreneur in her family. Visit Stanley’s Cigar Lounge at 3220 Butner Road, Suite 210, in South Fulton. Follow Monica and Stanley’s at @stanleyscigarloungeatl on IG.

Photography by Leo Marshall

Photography by Mia Yakel

Eudoxie SPEAKS!

AT HOME IN SOFU, HUMANITARIAN EUDOXIE BRIDGES IS WAY MORE THAN A PRETTY FACE!

Whether referring to her homeland, Gabon, or her residence in Atlanta, Eudoxie Bridges has turned every space she inhabits into a warm and loving home.

“Home is my sanctuary and home means a lot to me,” she expresses. “When you walk into our home, you feel the warmth, the love, the smell of the home-cooked meals and the energy of love present.”

Eudoxie’s story is captivating. Her journey begins by tracing the lines of resilience and purpose from the vibrant landscapes of Gabon, West Central Africa, to the welcoming embrace of Atlanta. Born and raised in a small village, Eudoxie embarked on a life-altering journey to America at the age of 15, guided by a destiny she attributes to a higher power.

“I credit my journey to God. Everything was written by God. It is my ‘destin ,’ as we say in French. That’s why I take nothing for granted,” she reflects. “A different turn, a wrong step, a minute late, things could have been different. I believe that stuff doesn’t happen to you; it happens for you.”

ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo by Cécile Boko @bokocecile

Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, philanthropist, and entrepreneur is no easy feat but Eudoxie finds joy in every aspect of her life. Her career and creative expressions find balance in the details of everyday life.

“It takes a village,” she says, acknowledging the support of her family and a network of like-minded individuals who share her vision and values.

“Family is my number one priority… With my philanthropic work, I also have a great support system, people who carry the same vision and values as me. I’m also a full-time cook in my house and I cook almost every day. Cooking is my second favorite job apart from being a mom.”

A self-taught chef, Eudoxie found solace in re-creating Gabonese dishes when she first arrived in the United States.

“It helped me cope through the years. Fast forward... I am now married with kids, and it is my love language. [I love] …sharing my love for cooking and my culture with those that I love the most.”

Eudoxie’s commitment to women’s and children’s rights finds resonance in her involvement in the UN 75th Anniversary of Women’s Bill of Rights: 75 voices in 75 days. This initiative aligns seamlessly with her foundation, Unspoken Angels, founded in 2013. Having experienced sexual abuse at a young age, Eudoxie is dedicated to using her platform to support survivors and break the cycle of abuse.

“I am very passionate about anything dealing with women, children, and their human rights. I believe in equality for all...everyone with a voice must lend their voice to the voiceless,” Eudoxie declares.

She firmly believes in every woman’s and girl’s right to live free from violence, and Unspoken Angels works tirelessly to support, empower, inspire, and educate survivors. From providing essential tools like laptops and desks to establishing libraries in primary schools, Eudoxie’s foundation aims to give opportunities to young women and children to thrive through education.

“I believe education is the hope to a better future, a better life. Hope is all we need when we are feeling trapped and stuck.”

For those aspiring to make a positive impact, Eudoxie’s advice is simple yet profound: “Know who you are, be true to yourself, be kind to yourself and others, and give with your means.”

Looking ahead, Eudoxie’s plans include publishing her long-awaited cookbook, continuing the mission of Unspoken Angels, completing home renovation projects, and making investments.

“[I look forward to] ...more work with my foundation. We have built wells to provide clean water for schools, and orphanages, and we would love to continue with this mission and provide more clean water to those who can’t have this simple important necessity.”

Eudoxie stands as a beacon of inspiration, weaving compassion, resilience, and love into the fabric of her life and the lives of those she touches.

Follow Eudoxie Bridges on Instagram @eudoxie to stay updated on her endeavors.

Photo by Ludacris

Photo by Ludacris

SAVE THE DATE

State of the Children Summit

Wednesday, November 13th 7:30am-9:30am

Join us for the State of the Children Community Conversation where we will highlight the collective power of partnerships, share new data and invite stakeholders to join our mission in advancing the Child Well-Being Movement in South Fulton County. For more information go to www.UWGASoFu.org or contact Vanessa Roussell at fulton@unitedwayatlanta.org

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

Soul Serene Wellness

ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY

Founder and Owner Dina Hobson extends a warm invitation to the community to celebrate the meaning of Soul Serene and explore its impact. The roots of this establishment delve deep into the understanding of health care issues that touch the very core of the community. Dina shared the story behind the creation of this unique home for wellness.

“We didn’t want to be just another wellness center; we wanted to be a guiding light for our community,” explained Dina. “A place where people could not only receive services but also gain insights into health care issues that directly impact their lives.”

The essence of Soul Serene lies in its holistic approach to well-being. They offer a menu of services but customizing an experience for

each individual. The ambiance emphasizes self-care and personal growth, with a model centered on actively listening to patients.

A DEEPER LOOK

SoFu Lifestyle inquired about Dina’s plans to engage with and support the local community.

“Our community is our focus,” Dina shared. Drawing from her more than 20 years of experience in health care, she spoke about the disparities she had witnessed and how Soul Serene aimed to be a starting point for change. The staff actively listens, identifying barriers to care during consultations.

Upcoming programs and initiatives include support meetings for women battling depression, an after-hours program for seniors, and engaging Saturday sewing classes. The initiatives are designed to be more than a service, aiming to be a thread that weaves the community closer together.

Soul Serene’s unique offerings include Hormone Replacement Therapy via implanted pellets—a service aimed at providing consistent hormone levels, convenience, and long-lasting effects.

Soul Serene is a sanctuary where health and community intersect. The center stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of a family determined to create a space that fosters well-being, community, and an understanding of health care issues.

For more info, visit soulserenewellness.com.

ARTICLE BY JUSTICE FREDERICK

Home Sweet Tiny Home!

As Booker Washington grew up in South Fulton, he noticed his community continuously being left out of the changes that occurred in metropolitan neighborhoods.

“For South Fulton…it was the most important place to start because it’s the place that’s being left out of the process…people have wanted to live in North Atlanta or in Atlanta, so as a result, some populations are being pushed into South Fulton, but South Fulton has been underdeveloped for years. This was the perfect place to start building,” says Washington.

Techie Homes’ mission is to build accessible and affordable micro homes that are innovative in terms of their architecture and technology, and how that

makes more efficient homes work better for the people who live in them. With the average price of buying a home in Atlanta being as high as $400,000, Washington seems to have found an option of homebuying that cuts that price in half.

“My passion in building micro homes isn’t just because they’re small homes, but because there are so many people being left out…because of rising costs and being left out of the ability to grow wealth,” Washington states proudly.

When asked about the modernization of the micro homes’ designs, Washington says he is inspired by experiences in escapism.

“Everything in your life is about experience. People have value in what they experience. It’s the same reason people escape to go

to the beach... People want to have access to better experiences. So why build cookie-cutter homes that don’t aesthetically give pride [when] homeownership is so important and expensive? Why not have something that you’re proud of every time you pull into the driveway, or every time you open up your door and say, ‘Hey, welcome to my home’? You want to have something that you’re proud about.”

“Homes and homeownership is a place where people have a lot of pride, and their homes should…indicate that pride…something that they’d want to show off to other people. I want to build homes that will aesthetically prove to people that you can have pride in what you do.”

As South Park Cottages became the first Black, minoritybuilt micro-community in the U.S. having created almost 30 units, Washington knew that his efforts in providing an affordable homeowner experience were just the beginning. Washington is building another similar community in #SoFu in Union City following the sold-out success of the micro homes. South Park Cottages can be found in #SoFu in College Park on Godby Road just 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and not too far from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

For more information, contact SouthParkCottages.com.

Transforming the Heart of Your Home

EXPLORE THE KEY ELEMENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL KITCHEN RENOVATION WITH DESIGN DUO INTERIORS

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home—a place where memories are made and culinary creations come to life. If you are undertaking a kitchen renovation project, you are about to embark on a journey that will not only enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space but also elevate your cooking and dining experiences. Here, we explore the key elements of a successful kitchen renovation, highlighting the transformative changes made in a recent project by Design Duo Interiors.

DEMOLITION AND REDESIGN

The first step in any kitchen renovation is to carefully plan and execute the demolition phase. By removing existing cabinetry and outdated appliances and making necessary structural adjustments, you create a blank canvas for your new kitchen design. In this particular project, closing the existing window to accommodate a hood and additional cabinetry was a smart move, optimizing space and creating a cohesive look.

STUNNING COUNTERTOPS

One of the focal points of any kitchen is the countertop. The choice to install a waterfall countertop brings a touch of modern elegance and visual interest to the space. This design element not only adds a sleek and seamless look but also provides additional functionality, such as serving as a breakfast bar or extra dining space. The waterfall effect creates a bold statement, ensuring your kitchen stands out.

A SPLASH OF STYLE

Extending the countertop for a countersplash effect is a brilliant design decision. This not only protects the walls from splashes and stains but also creates a cohesive and visually appealing look. Whether you opt

for a matching material or introduce a complementary pattern or texture, the countersplash adds depth and character to a kitchen while making cleaning a breeze.

STATE-OF-THE-ART APPLIANCES

No modern kitchen is complete without top-of-theline appliances that combine cutting-edge technology with style and efficiency. Investing in new appliances upgrades the functionality of a kitchen while adding a touch of luxury. From energy-efficient refrigerators and ovens to sleek drawer microwaves and dishwashers, these appliances enhance the cooking experience and elevate the overall aesthetics of a space.

COLORFUL CABINETRY

The choice to finish the cabinetry in a bold color adds personality and visual interest to a kitchen. While classic white cabinetry is timeless, opting for a vibrant hue injects a sense of character and individuality into the space. Whether a rich black, vibrant sage green, or warm and inviting shade, the colored cabinetry creates a striking focal point that sets a kitchen apart.

Embarking on a kitchen renovation project is an exciting endeavor that allows you to reimagine the heart of your home. By incorporating elements such as a custom hood, a waterfall countertop, extended countersplash, new appliances, and finished cabinetry in a captivating color, you’ve successfully transformed your kitchen into a space that is not only functional but also reflects your unique style and taste. The result is a kitchen that will inspire culinary adventures and create lasting memories for years to come.

Natasha Brown is owner and principal designer at Design Duo Interiors. She can be reached at 404.476.8563 and DesignDuoInteriors.com .

“Embarking on a kitchen renovation project is an exciting endeavor that allows you to reimagine the heart of your home.”

MICHELLE’S MADE FROM SCRATCH BISCUITS

In addition to being a fabulous publisher, Michelle Taylor Willis is an avid baker. She is sharing her recipe for these flaky homemade biscuits.

Ingredients

• 2 cup flour

• 2 Tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ⅛ cup sugar

• 1 stick cold salted butter

• 1 cup cold buttermilk

• 1 squeeze of honey

• Extra flour for rolling

Directions

Put all dry ingredients in a big bowl. Stir with a whisk to emulate sifting. Shred butter into flour mixture, OR chop butter into small cubes and add to flour. Mix in with a pastry blender until butter

resembles very small pebbles. Make a well in the center and add buttermilk. Squeeze about a teaspoon of honey. Mix ingredients with a spatula until blended. DO NOT STIR OR OVERMIX. The mixture will be wet and a little hard to manage. Pour onto a well-doughed counter and press into a square with well-floured hands. Fold into thirds from top to bottom, and then fold it over. And then left to right, and then fold it over. And then again top to bottom and fold over. Each time press it out until it slowly forms and binds together. Handle the dough as little as possible. After the third time, gently press the dough out until it’s about a ½ inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter coated in flour so it won’t stick, cut the biscuits. Place into a buttered round pan with the biscuits barely touching. Bake at 425 for 18-22 minutes or until you can smell them and they’re brown on top. Remove from oven and serve warm with butter.

Subscribe to @MichelleTaylorWillis on IG to watch the video if you’re a visual person like Michelle!

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS

DO YOU REALLY HAVE TO CHOOSE?

Franchising with us means making money and time for your life.