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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Words for Dinner
Hey Y'all,
This is one of my favorite issues: Kids & Pets! And here in SoFu, we are also headed Back to School in August! I’m so excited to shine a bright light on great teachers like the Fulton County Teacher of the Year, Natalie Meiguez from the Promise Academy. Get to know the head of school at OMNI International Academy! In addition, I’m happy to celebrate Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford, one of only six Georgia teachers ever to be inducted into the National Teacher Hall of Fame! It was a pleasure to be there with my college classmate and dear friend when David Begnaud from “CBS Mornings” surprised her and delivered the news to her and her family at Ron Clark Academy in South Atlanta!
On the topic of "eating my words," it has been my pleasure to serve as the Editor of SoFu Lifestyle for over 10 years and I said previously I’d never really focus on the pets part of the theme. But something changed when I became a dog mom to my Goldendoodle Astro. Since then I’m constantly looking for pet-friendly patios such as @BiteLinesATL in SoFu and even fun activities for him like a Beltline Crawl especially for pups! The tables have turned and I think it’s too funny. You live and experience more and you learn. Now I get how much a puppy can become part of your family! Pet moms, there’s definitely something in this issue for you!
Enjoy the rest of these "dog days" of summer before the school bell rings!
ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kevin Giles | kevin.giles@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gabrielle Latimore, Juju Ramos, Caylie Jefferson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abishai Productions, Nicole Peppers, Marissa Chinn & Tuan Pham (HangryPringles)
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Photo by Abishai Productions
Honorees Included Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III and Atlanta Television Pioneer Billye Suber Aaron
Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford Inducted Into National Teachers Hall of Fame
Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford , Head of the Mathematics Department at Atlanta's Ron Clark Academy, was inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. An educator for over 25 years, Dr. Jones Ford is a Spelman graduate, with advanced degrees from Georgia State University and Columbia University.
Renowned as the fastest-growing City in Georgia and the 4th fastest-growing suburb in the Nation, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, educational, and economic prowess of a large metropolis.
Nestled just minutes from the world's busiest airport, Union City stands proud as the residence of influential brands like Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, ASOS, Amazon, Merecedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, and Atlanta Metro Studios.
Experience the fusion of business and lifestyleReclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.
1-7: The 2025 Ryan Cameron Foundation Father Daughter Dance was a sold-out celebration of love, leadership, and legacy, held at the Southern Exchange Ballroom in downtown Atlanta. Designed to strengthen the sacred bond between fathers and daughters, this powerful and unforgettable evening united families from across the city for a night of connection, community, and celebration. Hosted by “NBC 11 Alive” anchor and award-winning journalist Faith Jessie. Photography by Nicole Peppers
D
By: Jolene Butts Freeman
May we celebrate our mothers- those h ose who are angels in heaven It is of my opinion, when a woman becomes a mother, her heart grows as large as the number of children she births She unlocks a world of sacrifice as her life drastically changes –It’s no longer just her
Motherhood brings an immediate shift in routine midnight feedings, diaper changes, appointments, and the daily work of raising kind, capable children While taking a holistic approach to help kids thrive is rewarding, it can also be incredibly stressful
For example, did you know approximately 1 out of 10 women postpartum depression after giving birth?
According to PostpartumDepression org it is estimated that nearly 50% of mothers with postpartum depression are not diagnosed by a health professional
That’s why it’s crucial for mothers to build a village of trustworthy, genuine, and dependable people whose actions match their words
Lastly, in the midst of motherhood, many moms neglect their own well-being skipping meals, eating on the go, and not prioritizing exercise Here are a few tips:
Make time to pray or meditate
Talk to a counselor or therapist
Exercise early while the house is quiet
Eat healthy consider trying the Eat Right for Your
Blood Type approach
Do things you truly enjoy
Spend quality time with your spouse and family
So, readers, on Mother’s Day do something special for your mother Show her you really love her! Remember this quote from Gail Tsukiyama - “Mothers and their children are in a category all their own There’s no bond so strong in the entire world No love so instantaneous and forgiving ”
Learn more about lifestyle choices and Mamas Making Moves 247 at www mamasmakingmoves247 com and follow me on Instagram at mamasmakingmoves247
4th Annual One Book, One Read
GOOD DIRT
BY CHARMAINE WILKERSON
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Author Talk & Meet
11 AM - 2 PM // Central Library
One Margaret Mitchell Sq, Atlanta, GA 30303
Register today at FulcoLibrary.org/OBOR
NEW THIS YEAR!
Twenty aspiring authors will be selected for a special Writer’s Workshop Charmaine Wilkerson on Friday, October 24th.
By application only, visit FulcoLibrary.org/OBOR to apply for this special opportunity!
business monthly
100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta Present Community Wellness Day
On Saturday, September 20, at Old National Commons in collaboration with the City of South Fulton and the Old National Merchants Association, this powerful event—chaired by Michael Hightower and honoring CeeLo Green as their first Health Champion—aims to provide over 500 free health screenings with partners like Grady, Emory, and Morehouse School of Medicine.
“As Event Coordinator, I’m committed to building healthier futures—one family, one block at a time,” says LaDray Gilbert, event coordinator.
Scan to read more
Rich Wilkins Elected Board Chair of Friends of Cascade Library
Rich Wilkins has been elected Board Chair of the Friends of Cascade Library. The bookstore is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. They are in search of volunteers. The Evelyn G. Lowery Library at Cascade is located at 3665 Cascade Rd. SW 30331.
Scan to read more
True Colors Theatre Presents “Ain’t No Mo’”
Through August 24
Live At The Balzer, 84 Luckie St. NW, during Southwest Arts Center construction, this marks the Atlanta debut of Tony-award nominated playwright Jordan E. Cooper’s acclaimed Broadway production. A satirical farce ripped straight out of today’s headlines, “Ain’t No Mo’” imagines what would happen if every Black person in America was offered a one-way ticket to Africa in a set of hilarious vignettes tinged with a dose of Black truth. Tickets at TrueColorsTheatre.org
Scan to read more
Grady’s Camp Creek Comprehensive Care Center brings trusted care to the heart of Atlanta’s southwest side. It’s our largest neighborhood health center yet – built to serve growing families, busy professionals, and seniors alike with the expert care you expect from Grady. From
care and lab testing to specialty services and chronic disease management, we’ve got everything you need to stay healthy – all in one place, right in your neighborhood.
Dr. Ann-Gelle Carter
Dr. Joya J. Reasor
Dr. Wanda S. Gumbs
Dr. Salimah Sligh
Atlanta Fine Art Print Fair at Black Art in America Aug 1-3
If you're collecting on a budget but thinking long-term, the Atlanta Fine Art Print Fair is your chance to invest in meaningful, lasting art. Discover limited-edition prints by emerging and established Black artists—works you can live with and watch grow in value. Hosted by Black Art In America Gallery, the weekend offers more than just prints: enjoy dynamic programming, artist talks, and unique opportunities to build your collection with purpose. More at blackartinamerica.com
16th Annual BronzeLens Film Festival Returns!
The 16th Annual BronzeLens Film Festival will be a hybrid festival held in person on August 20-24, and online the following week. The line-up includes daily screenings of new works by independent filmmakers from across the country and around the globe, workshops, panel discussions, BronzeLens Awards, and much more! Join us for a grand party at the Second Annual Filmmakers Ball recognizing the 16th anniversary highlighting Atlanta and Georgia's expansive filmmaker society. Visit Bronzelens. Eventive.org for tickets.
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Cancer. It’s a word no one wants to hear. But one in three women will be diagnosed with the disease in her lifetime. At City of Hope®, our women’s cancer experts understand that female cancers pose unique challenges to women of all ages. Our team is focused on diagnosing and treating breast and reproductive cancers with the deep compassion that puts you and your needs first – personalizing treatment plans right down to a patient’s DNA.
City of Hope provides cancer services to patients throughout the Southeast, with a location in Newnan, Georgia.
Anita Johnson, M.D., F.A.C.S. Director, Breast Cancer Center
Lily Shakibnia, M.D., M.S.c., D.A.B.R., F.R.C.P.C. Chief of Radiation
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JOHN AND LILLIAN MILES LEWIS FOUNDATION
2025 Good Trouble Gala
HONOREES INCLUDED SMITHSONIAN SECRETARY LONNIE G. BUNCH III AND ATLANTA TELEVISION PIONEER BILLYE SUBER AARON
Almost 450 people attended the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation 2025 Good Trouble Gala at Flourish in Atlanta, marking the first time the gala has been held in Congressman John Lewis’ hometown. The event convened leaders, changemakers, and advocates to celebrate the life and legacy of Congressman John Lewis and Lillian Miles Lewis, honor leaders who embody the values they championed, and raise critical funds to support programs and initiatives that continue to advance their legacy and work.
Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and now the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, received the John Lewis Carry On Award. Billye Suber Aaron, a pioneering television host, philanthropist, civic leader, and cofounder of Chasing the Dream Foundation, received the inaugural Lillian Miles Lewis Luminary Award “Atlanta was the city chosen for some of the most precious and monumental decisions Congressman
Lewis made. He knew Atlanta could be trusted to amplify youth civic engagement, preserve and promote civil rights history, define and promote ‘good trouble’ and good troublemakers, and build cross-sector partnerships and collaborations,” said Detria Austin Everson, president and CEO of the Foundation. “Atlanta was the only place he could establish the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, because Atlanta is home. We are ready at the Foundation to do exactly what he asked us to do, and that is carry on.”
“I believe that when hearts and minds come together in love and purpose, the spirits of Congressman John Lewis and Mrs. Lillian Miles Lewis are truly present,” said Michael Collins, board chair of the Foundation. “Their lives were built on public service, justice, and love. It is our charge to preserve and protect that sacred legacy.”
Jason Carter, chairman of the board at the Carter Foundation, moderated a Good Trouble Talk with Secretary Bunch. Much of the discussion focused on the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Congressman Lewis was the driving force behind the legislation creating the museum.
The Foundation also awarded three $5,000 Good Troublemaker Neighborhood Grants and 13 $1,000 Good Troublemaker Scholarships.
The grants aim to support communitybased programs that foster positive change, advance democracy, and empower communities guided by truth, integrity, and moral clarity.
The scholarships primarily support passionate student leaders committed to academic success and civic engagement, with an interest in education, literacy, or
library science. The organizations and students are all from Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District.
The evening also featured a preview performance from the cast of Theatrical Outfit’s “ YOUNG JOHN LEWIS ,” a new “Made in Atlanta” hip hop musical focusing on 10 crucial years in the early life of the congressman and his journey from student activist to major leader in the Civil Rights movement. The Foundation is a Community Partner for the production, which ran from June 4 through June 29.
Other notable speakers included Sen. Jon Ossoff; Rep. Nikema Williams; Atlanta Mayor André Dickens; Chris Womack, president and CEO of Southern Company; and John-Miles Lewis. Cheryl Johnson, a former clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, presented the John Lewis Carry On Award to Lonnie Bunch. Henrietta Antoinin and Carolyn Young presented the Lillian Miles Lewis Luminary Award to Billye Suber Aaron. Karyn Greer from WSB-TV was the emcee. Rabbi Lauren Henderson gave the invocation and Rev. Kenneth Alexander gave the benediction.
Jason Carter, Xernona Clayton, Mayor Dickens, former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, and Ambassador Andrew Young were Honorary Chairs for the event. Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Arthur M. Blank, Michael Collins, Tharon Johnson, John-Miles Lewis, and Chris Womack were the Gala co-chairs.
GOOD TROUBLEMAKER NEIGHBORHOOD GRANT RECIPIENTS
• Black Man Lab Foundation, Inc.: The Black Man Lab Foundation is an intergenerational community that empowers young Black men through mentorship, life skills development, and civic engagement in a supportive, village-style environment.
• KiDsGyM USA®: KiDsGyM USA® is a nonprofit that has empowered children for nearly 40 years through movement-based education, gymnastics, and mentorship programs that promote confidence, resilience, and wellness.
• The Noble Truth Project, Inc.: The Noble Truth Project empowers young Black men through its Glaciers Ice program, combining mentorship, literacy, and entrepreneurship to
offer a positive, income-generating alternative to street vending in Atlanta.
GOOD TROUBLEMAKER SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
• Sunda Banks , North Atlanta High School, who will be attending Kennesaw State University.
• Wendell Campbell IV , Midtown High School, who will be attending Morehouse College.
• Zakia Dowdy , Frederick Douglass High School, who will be attending Kennesaw State.
• Joseph Francis , Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, who will be attending Georgia Tech.
• Jayden Hodges , Booker T. Washington High School, who will be attending Clark Atlanta University.
• Melvin Hodges , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending Howard University.
• Beli Infantry Johnson , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending New York University.
• Natasha Joseph , Booker T. Washington High School, who will be attending Alabama State University.
• Adonis McCrary , Frederick Douglass High School, who will be attending Georgia Tech.
• Isis Meggett , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending American University.
• Kaelyn Myers , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending Howard University.
• Joseph Richburg , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending Morehouse College.
• Amir Tookes , Charles R. Drew Charter School, who will be attending Morehouse College.
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION
The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation (JLMLF) was conceived by Congressman Lewis to carry on his and his wife’s passion for purposeful living, civic engagement, and building the “beloved community,” and to inspire and support Good Trouble. For more information about the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, please visit jlmlf.org
The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation Board includes Michael E. Collins (Chair), Stephen L. McDaniel (Secretary), J. Veronica Biggins, Sherry Z. Frank, Tharon Johnson, and Rodney E. Slater. President and CEO Detria Austin Everson is an ex officio member of the board.
This magazine is how Michelle redefined success.
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ROOTED IN Representation
ARTICLE BY JUJU RAMOS
HOW
DR. TJUANI BELL MARKS IS REIMAGINING EDUCATION AT OMNI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
In Southwest Atlanta, a quiet revolution in education is underway fueled by language, representation, and a fearless leader who refused to accept traditional limits. Dr. TJuani Bell Marks, founder of OMNI International School, wasn’t trained in the conventional mold. She’s a military spouse who lived abroad and felt firsthand the barriers of not speaking multiple languages. That feeling of disconnection became the spark for something much bigger: an international school grounded in excellence and equity.
Founded in 2011, OMNI is anything but ordinary. From the outside, it may look like a bright, joyful early learning center. But step inside, and you’ll see 2-year-olds mastering phonics, recognizing shapes, and preparing for a world where language is power. By kindergarten, OMNI students are confident readers and writers. By third grade, they’re crafting persuasive essays and analyzing complex ideas—often performing two to three grade levels ahead of their public-school peers.
But academics are just the beginning.
“We focus on the whole child,” Dr. Bell Marks says. “Language opens doors, but character keeps them open.” OMNI offers immersion programs in Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish, with native speakers leading
“WE
FOCUS ON THE whole child ,” DR. BELL MARKS SAYS. “LANGUAGE OPENS DOORS, BUT character KEEPS THEM OPEN.”
the way. These aren’t language classes—they’re full cultural experiences designed to create global citizens from day one.
The school is majority African American, with a growing population of biracial students. Representation isn’t a mission statement—it’s embedded in every classroom.
“Our students see themselves in their teachers,” Dr. Bell Marks explains. “That changes everything.”
This intentionality extends to neurodiverse learners. OMNI’s staff is trained to spot early signs of autism, ADD, and other learning differences, crafting individualized learning paths that let every student thrive.
“All children are gifted,” Dr. Bell Marks says. “Our job is to find how.”
OMNI is a year-round school, with 3 weeks off in May and ongoing enrichment through June. And while the rigor is high, the joy is even higher. Students participate in creative theme weeks like Chemistry Week, NanoTech Week, Kids Kitchen
Week, and Solar Energy Week. The goal? Make mastery fun and curiosity constant.
Parents play a central role in the OMNI experience. With a required 24 hours of annual volunteer time, families help shape the school’s community. Whether through field trips, classroom help, or PR committees, they’re not just observers—they’re partners.
Dr. Bell Marks believes education is generational work and that children deserve a softer, more empowered life than their parents had. That global fluency starts early. When Black children are given the tools to lead, they rise—boldly, brilliantly, and without apology.
At OMNI, the mission is clear: excellence in all things. The method? High expectations, whole-child development, and a fierce commitment to representation.
The result? A school that isn’t just preparing students for the future—it’s preparing them to shape it.
Follow their journey: @OmniSchoolAtl
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE
Fulton County Schools Teacher of the Year!
Meet TOTY
Natalie Meiguez!
As an undergraduate math major, Natalie Meiguez always dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder and leading boardroom strategies from her corner office. Years later, she traded her boardroom dreams for the classroom and is now being honored as the Fulton County Schools 25-26 Teacher of the Year. Her journey is far from traditional, and it all began with a lunch conversation with her best friend, a middle school teacher. Teaching had not even been on Natalie’s radar until her friend spoke about leading a struggling student to the
“aha!” moment in one of her lessons. This conversation sparked something in Natalie: a dream for a new career that mattered long term—one where she could find fulfillment and success measured in student confidence rather than quarterly profits.
Although she had no experience in education, Natalie worked tirelessly, balancing her full-time job with taking night classes in Middle Grades Education at Brenau University. Following long days of corporate meetings, she studied lesson planning and classroom management at night, sometimes leaving school at 9 p.m., “exhausted but energized,” she says.
Since then, she has taught sixth and seventh grade math and algebra—her favorite subject to teach—and mentored academic coaches who lead high school geometry and pre-calculus. Currently, she teaches algebra to ninth graders and college readiness to 10th grade students. Math can be a daunting subject for many students, but Natalie’s approach to teaching creates a thriving learning environment. In her classroom, mistakes are celebrated, and lessons are crafted for real-world connection. She even designed a project where students applied geometric concepts to create a blueprint for their city of College Park.
Through the most challenging days she’s faced as an educator, Natalie has learned to appreciate the small wins.
“Students deserve teachers who will not give up on them,” she says.
It’s not just what she teaches that matters—it’s how. Empathy and building genuine relationships with her students are at the heart of her classroom, and that extends far beyond the complex algebra problems she teaches. One defining moment of her career came when a once-struggling student told her, “I couldn’t have done it without you. You’re the best math teacher ever!”
Natalie’s impact transcends the classroom into the Fulton community. From attending extracurricular events to coaching sports teams, Natalie continues to show up for students as a partner in her community.
“I believe that when we invest in our community, we create more opportunities for our students to succeed both in and out of school,” says Natalie.
While Natalie humbly accepts the honor of Teacher of the Year with gratitude, she knows this is not the finish line—it is a call to her continued leadership. She will continue to choose patience over frustration, uplifting her students and remaining a leader within her community. Natalie’s bold decision to change careers ultimately became a choice to change lives. Congratulations, Natalie!
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How does GreyStone prevent storms from creating outages? Josh.
At GreyStone Power, our power isn’t just … power. It’s our people. It’s Josh, making sure trees get trimmed before they can cause problems. It’s linemen like Cameron, upgrading power lines to keep your electricity flowing. It’s Jeff, doing home energy audits to help members lower their bills. It’s Patrice, working with community leaders on economic development. And it’s members like you, enjoying some of the lowest rates in the nation. So here’s to our people, and the pursuit of perfect power, right here in the community. Our power is our people.
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Glenda Walker
Photo by Abishai Productions
Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford Inducted Into the National Teachers Hall of Fame
What Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford believed to be a pre-filming Teacher Appreciation Week segment on “CBS Mornings” with David Begnaud at her school, Ron Clark Academy (RCA), was actually a much more life-changing surprise. Surrounded by students, fellow teachers, and a surprise appearance from her mother, she was announced as the sixth Black woman to ever be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame.
With 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Jones Ford has been pivotal in transforming her students’ relationship with math.
“Math is 50% how you feel about it,” she says. “The other 50% is actually doing it.” She even trademarked the phrase “math esteem” to reflect this philosophy. Since teaching at RCA in 2011, she has been known for connecting math to everyday life and making it relatable to students. She emphasizes that math is just problem solving that exists in life’s everyday choices.
“Figuring out what patterns to wear, that’s not just fashion, it’s math,” she says.
Dr. Jones Ford is most proud when she can help students overcome math anxiety.
“That ‘aha!’ moment is what keeps me going every year,” she notes. One memorable experience was when four of her students (two of which had former math anxiety)
Kim Bearden, co-founder of RCA, is the other Atlanta inductee. She was inducted in 2016. Photo by Abishai Productions
won the National MathCounts Video Challenge and were invited to meet former President Barack Obama at the White House Science Fair. “Math let them meet the president!”
Aside from the summer breaks every year, Dr. Jones Ford’s personal breakthrough is what truly inspired her to pursue a career in math education. Before receiving the prestigious honor, this math teacher once struggled in math. She credits her ninth grade teacher with helping her realize she had dyslexia, which caused her math struggles. Her own “aha!” moment helped her fall in love with learning math and breaking down difficult concepts in a digestible way to teach others.
As a proud Spelman alumna, Dr. Jones Ford notes that her role extends beyond an educator to a mentor. She still references undergraduate class notes in her lessons and encourages students to see what’s possible through her guidance. As she reflects, Dr. Jones Ford is proud to be part of the Black teachers who have always been here shaping the lives in her community.
Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford, an educator at Atlanta’s Ron Clark Academy (RCA), was inducted into the National Teachers Hall of
Fame in June. An educator for over 25 years, Dr. Jones Ford serves as the Head of the Mathematics Department at RCA. A Spelman graduate, with advanced degrees in Mathematics Education from Georgia State University and Columbia University, Dr. Jones Ford previously received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, was also recognized in the U.S. Congressional
The Ford Family at the Ceremony in Emporia, KS
Photo by Abishai Productions
Record by the late Congressman John Lewis and celebrated multiple times by former President Barack Obama for her groundbreaking contributions to equity and excellence in education.
Dr. Jones Ford is the second Atlanta educator to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, following Kimberly Stewart Bearden (2016), Ron Clark Academy’s co-founder and executive director. They join Sheryl Abshire (Augusta, 1992) and Sandra Worsham (Milledgeville, 2000) as the only Georgia inductees. With this year’s inductees, the NTHF has welcomed 165 educators since 1992, when the first five were inducted. Dr. Jones Ford is also the sixth Black woman to be inducted.
Established in 1989, the Hall of Fame honors career teachers from public, private, and parochial schools across the country. To be eligible, nominees must have at least 20 years of full-time classroom teaching and go through a rigorous selection process including essays, recommendations, and interviews.
Dr. Jones Ford was inducted alongside four other distinguished educators:
• Michael Dunlea III, a fifth-grade teacher from Tabernacle, New Jersey
• Tom Jenkins, a retired STEM and science teacher from Enon, Ohio
• Michelle Pearson, a social studies teacher from Thornton, Colorado
• Dr. Pascale Creek Pinner, an eighth-grade science teacher from Hilo, Hawaii
About the Author Gabby Latimore is a writer, teacher, film enthusiast, and proud Spelman College grad. She self-published her first children’s book, When Gabby Finds Her Song, in 2024 and has been writing since she could grip a pen. Gabby writes articles, film and TV critiques, and most recently, her own screenplays. She currently lives in Atlanta and is pursuing a master’s degree in film studies at Georgia State University.
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Patio Pups, Beltline Crawls for Furry Friends and 5 SoFu Spots to Bring Your Kids and Pets
Patio Pups and Family Nights at Lazy Dog | Bring your pup and your kids to the patio!
PE TS
National Dog Day is on August 26th and Lazy Dog Restaurant , a casual dining restaurant with three locations in Georgia, is celebrating all week long, August 26–31
Lazy Dog’s patios are dog friendly! Grab a to-go Dog Bowl, made with grilled chicken or beef over brown rice and veggies—because pets deserve something tasty and nutritious, too.
KIDS
Lazy Dog Restaurants with locations just up the road from SoFu in Alpharetta, Dunwoody, and Peachtree Corners— recently launched Family Nights. Every Wednesday, kids 12 and under can enjoy a complimentary Build Your Own Sundae with all the fixin’s when dining in with the purchase of a kid’s entrée. The Kid’s Menu at Lazy Dog features a variety of favorites, from classics like Chicken Nuggets and Hamburgers to Teriyaki Chicken + Veggies and new Cheesy Pizza Sticks. Each meal includes a drink and a side of choice, making it easy to satisfy any appetite. To add a little extra fun at the table, kids can also enjoy Candy Dog Collars—a wearable DIY treat made by stringing Froot Loops® on a licorice string. Once they’ve created their necklace or bracelet, they can enjoy it as a sweet snack. More at LazyDogRestaurants.com.
ARTICLE BY CAYLIE JEFFERSON AND PROVIDED PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARISSA CHINN & TUAN
PHAM (HANGRYPRINGLES), AND PROVIDED BY LAZY DOG AND @BITELINESATL
Provided by Lazy Dog
Marissa Chinn & Tuan Pham (HangryPringles)
5 SoFu Restaurants That Fit the Needs of Your Furry Friends and Kids
By Caylie Jefferson
Do you ever have trouble finding a good restaurant that not only fits the needs of your family, but your pet companions as well? If so, here is a guide to finding some of the best kid- and petfriendly restaurants in the area.
1. BRAKE PAD RESTAURANT & BAR
Located in College Park, Brake Pad Restaurant & Bar is a restaurant that sells American Style Cuisine. with a focus on burgers and pubstyle food. The restaurant is an old-time classic that opened in 2002.
Address: 3403 Main St, College Park, GA 30337
Website: https://www.brakepadatlanta.com
Contact: (404) 766- 1515
2. RUBELLO’S PIZZA
Located in Fairburn, Rubello’s Pizza is an American/Italian-style Pizzeria that offers so much more than pizza. Its wide variety attracts customers, as well as the ability to customize your own pizza.
Address: 8420 Senoia Rd, Fairburn, GA 30213
Website: https://www.rubellosfairburn.com
Contact: (770) 306- 7484
3. THE CORNER TAVERN
Located in Hapeville, The Corner Tavern is a pub-style bar and grill that has a diverse menu. The menu offers food such as burgers, sandwiches, salad, etc. The Corner Tavern is a locally owned and operated business that also has a sister location in Georgetown, South Carolina.
Address: 573 N Central Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354
Website: htt ps://www.thecornertavern.com/location/ the-corner-tavern-hapeville/ Contact: (404) 254- 1004
4. BOLE ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT
Located in College Park, Bole Ethiopian Restaurant is an Ethiopian restaurant that offers a variety of Ethiopian cuisine. The restaurant is family owned and provides a unique cultural experience to their customers.
Address: 1583 Virginia Ave, Atlanta, GA 30337
Website: https://www.boleethiopianrestaurantatlanta.com
Contact: (404) 549- 9111
5. BGR GRILLE
Located in East Point, BGR Grille is an American-style grill that is known for their burgers, bowls, and tacos. Besides the foods that have the most notoriety, the restaurant still sells a plethora of other kinds of foods as well.
Address: 1603 White Way, East Point, GA 30344
Website: https://thebgrgrille.com
Contact: (404) 921- 2288
Born and raised in South Fulton, Caylie Jefferson is a rising Sophomore at Hampton and currently serves as an editorial intern at SoFu Lifestyle. She is a Journalism Major with a minor in Sports Management.
Barks and Bites:
A Doggie Crawl on the Beltline
The Atlanta Beltline is known for its lively patios and neighborhood restaurants. And now, your dog gets a seat at the table, too.
Barks and Bites: Beltline Doggie Crawl is a one-of-a-kind restaurant crawl where doggies are the VIPs. Pet-friendly spots along the Eastside Trail whip up special dishes just for them, so pups can dine at the table, not under it. Think burgers, tacos, hot dogs, or chicken Philly cheesesteaks—menus rotate often—paired with “barkaritas” made from Brutus Bone Broth. Humans are welcome, of course, and enjoy the same small bites, served people-style.
The event includes shopping at pet stores, swag bags and giveaways from local and national pet brands—along with a stroll down the lively Atlanta Beltline.
More than just a fun outing, Barks and Bites supports a good cause: a portion of every ticket goes to animal rescue organizations, including the Atlanta Humane Society and Furkids Atlanta.
Because don’t good dogs deserve their own day out?
The Doggie Crawl is held on select Sundays. Tickets and dates at bitelinesatlantafoodtours.com
Photo by @bitelinesatl
Photo by @bitelinesatl
A 40-Year Legacy
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE
With a reputation so strong that its only marketing campaign was a oneliner in the Yellow Pages, a waitlist of students recently capped at 150, and teachers that have been with the center since its opening in 1985, Dozier’s Early Learning Center stands out as a trusted cornerstone for early childhood education in East Point. Family-owned and rooted in faith, Dozier’s is more than just any other daycare. Mr. Reginald “Ray” Dozier was inspired by his mother’s passion for education to open a center for children where the “it takes a village” philosophy takes full form as all staff, parents, and students are treated like members of the Dozier family. For nearly 40 years, this hidden gem of East Point has set the standard for
WHY EVERY PARENT WANTS THEIR CHILD AT DOZIER'S EARLY LEARNING CENTER
When students come to Dozier, from infancy, they are immersed in an environment of learning.
early learning with the highest overall 3-star rating from Quality Rated Child Care.
When students come to Dozier, from infancy, they are immersed in an environment of learning. Mr. Dozier’s mother believed in the power of education, especially for young Black children, and they refused to be merely another center for babysitting. Instead, the robust curriculum for their students includes reading, writing, spelling, phonics, and music—all before they get to Kindergarten. The Dozier impact is so substantial that elementary teachers can easily spot a Dozier alum due to their accelerated skills and confidence in the classroom.
The children are the clear priority at Dozier’s, from their open-door policy and commitment to their academic success and overall well-being. With an extensive menu that changes every week, students are fed home-cooked comforting dishes like chicken, salmon, collard greens, and rice and can eat as much as they need—no wonder there’s such a long waitlist!
High turnover rates with staff and enrollment may plague other centers, but at Dozier’s, it is quite the opposite. Four teachers have been with the center since Dozier opened its doors in 1985, while most staff have been with the center for at least 15 years. The dedication of the staff at Dozier’s can be attributed to how they are valued beyond the classroom. The Dozier family is known
for their giving spirit, offering interest-free loans to their staff, writing off enrollment fees for parents who’ve fallen on hard times, and even changing flat tires for their teachers. “God has blessed us so we can bless others,” Mr. Dozier shares. This is not just a daycare or a workplace for the Doziers—it is their family.
As Dozier’s Early Learning Center celebrated 40 years this July, the next chapter is expanding beyond its current facility. The center has been in the Dozier family for three generations, with Mr. Dozier’s daughter, Brionna, and her husband, Kendall, stepping up as the new CEO and CFO in 2022 since Mr. Dozier and his wife’s retirement. Brionna and Kendall intend to carry on the spirited legacy of their family as they have purchased a building across the street from the center that will be home to their newly founded nonprofit organization, Beyond Boundaries. The expansion further solidifies Dozier’s Early Learning Center as a pillar of service and commitment to the children and parents in the East Point community.
Mr. Dozier sums it up best: “We’re not perfect, but we strive for it every day.” With such a commitment to excellence, Dozier’s Early Learning Center hopes to serve for generations to come. It’s clear the question isn’t why every parent wants their child at Dozier—but when will they ever have an opening?
