South Fulton, GA March 2021

M A R C H 2 02 1

the Queens mural

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis | michelle.willis@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Photo by Tiffany Powell

Welcome Home, #SoFu! WHAT’S THAT I SEE IN THE DISTANCE, SOUTH FULTON? A glimmer of hope!

So many things have transpired already in 2021. I really believe things are looking up. Let me give you some examples! Did y’all know that our own Michelle Taylor Willis wrote a parenting book called Raising Significance: A Guide to Raising Well-Rounded, Independent and Confident Kids AND that she appeared on the Tamron Hall Show? Don’t miss her Wednesday radio show or her TV show—our

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Curtis Bunn, Justice Victoria Fredericks, Stevie Peterson, Alex Ming CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

L. Devlin Photography, Tiffany Powell Photography

local media maven is truly the #QueenOfSoFu! Did you see South Fulton’s own Captain Andrea Hall recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala D. Harris? History has its eyes on YOU, South Fulton! My heart swelled with pride. I know yours did too.

It’s my pleasure to bring you this issue for Women’s History Month. The #QueensMural at Studio House Atlanta provided another bright light where the mothers of the movement, along with the sisters and aunts can shine! Women artists came together to create it and the result is stunning. In addition, check out the feature on my homeboy and friend Donald Hawkins as he embarks on a new business venture, First Boulevard, an unapologetically Black-owned bank. Then there’s the touching tribute to a couple

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

of South Fulton community pillars, Principal Jamar Robinson and his wife, Ann Marie.

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

It‘s really inspiring to see this community rally around the family at this time of loss.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Hope this issue inspires you, #SoFu!

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EMitchell@LifestylePubs.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

The #DuchessOfSoFu (Maybe I binge-watched #Bridgerton too many times! LOL!) ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA

ON THE COVER #QueensMural at

TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Studio House Atlanta features phenomenal women Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Leader Stacey Abrams.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY L. DEVLIN PHOTOGRAPHY 4

SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

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 areas’ 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 accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021

FEATURES 14 #QueensMural How Sonia Booker Used Art and Community to Empower

18 First Boulevard Donald Hawkins' New Venture

22 The Heartbreak of Westlake Remembering the Robinsons

18 22

34 Through the Lens of Love Tasha Cobbs Leonard Launches Fritz Eyewear

14

34

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Artist’s Palette

18

Local’s Choice

22 Local Limelight 26 Hot Spot 30 Financial Buzz 32 Hometown Hero 34 Trend Setter

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.

©2020 South Fulton Conventions and Visitors Bureau and its representatives. All rights reserved

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

PUT YO U R CIT Y O N O U R MAP. Start a magazine & build a legacy.

Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

GOOD TIMES

Bert's Big Adventure Your Space Resolution Race Presented by Dunkin' Nonprofit Bert's Big Adventure hosted their Your Space Resolution Race presented by Dunkin', a virtual event that encouraged participants to walk, run or ride for a distance of 1-mile, 5K or 10K in their space and at their pace, whether that be outside, a safe and comfortable 6-feet distance from others, or indoors on their favorite movement equipment.

All of the proceeds will go towards supporting year-round programming and providing a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families.

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SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

11

AROUND TOWN

AUTHOR MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS ON TAMRON HALL SHOW SFL Publisher and author of Raising Significance: A Guide to Raising Well-Rounded, Independent and Confident Kids Michelle Taylor Willis shares words of advice and instructions for creating a learning, loving environment for children. As an enterprising mother of four boys, Michelle has created rules to

ticipate, and learning can be individual or in groups.

Participation is free to all who sign up.

Email racialequitychallenge@unitedwayatlanta.org for more information.

VIRTUAL SOUTH METRO DEVELOPMENT OUTLOOK

live by that she has tested and assures that any

The 19th Annual South Metro Development

parent can use to raise confident and independent

Outlook Conference held virtually on March 18,

kids. One of her favorite mantras is that children

2021, serves as a platform to convene elected

should “Obey Immediately and Happily.” Willis

officials and industry professionals with a com-

firmly believes that kids should learn from an

mitment to the growth and development of South

early age to listen to and obey their parents. One

Metro Atlanta. As we move beyond the challenges

of the key takeaways that Michelle discussed on

of the past year, we will celebrate the successes,

the Tamron Hall Show is “Control What You Can

opportunities, and the state of the South Metro

Control.” The episode aired in January and covered

region. SMDO21 attendees will experience a

raising children during the COVID-19 pandemic.

dynamic virtual reality in a unique, interactive, and

In addition to the parenting guide, Willis also cre-

engaging environment.

ated a parent resource kit to let parents know that

South Metro Development Outlook is the largest

their efforts to enrich their children’s lives make

conference of its kind in South Metropolitan Atlanta.

them Super Parents. During the pandemic, Michelle

SMDO21 will include top-notch speakers high-

has adjusted her schedule to guarantee school is a

lighting economic development, transportation,

top priority for her children and family. A quick read,

housing, small businesses, and more. As always,

Willis’ book features words of encouragement and

we will celebrate the accomplishments of Clayton,

confirmation from a pediatrician and a well-known

Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Henry and South Fulton

judge. The book also features a resource section of

counties, as well as the City of Atlanta.

articles, books, and other materials that can assist

South Metro Development Outlook is the brain-

with promoting positive parenting skills. Find the

child of Michael Hightower, Managing Partner

book online at MichelleTaylorWillis.com, Amazon,

of The Collaborative Firm, LLC, planning, pro-

and Books-A-Million.

gram management, and development company.

UNITED WAY OF GREATER ATLANTA PRESENTS 21-DAY CHALLENGE!

Hightower, a long-time proponent of smart growth in the Southern Crescent, established SMDO for convening individuals with a common interest in

Disparities across race and zip codes are holding

examining and discussing relevant growth-re-

us back and limiting the opportunities for our chil-

lated issues in South Fulton County. Register at

dren. This may be the present reality, but it doesn’t

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/136721554851.

have to be the future! The 21-day Racial Equity Challenge presents a powerful opportunity to learn more, grow as an ally, and advocate and reimagine a united path forward as an equitable Atlanta.

SOUTH FULTON CAPTAIN ANDREA HALL RECITES INAUGURATION PLEDGE “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United

The self-guided learning explores the history

States of America.” These are a few of the words

and impact of racism and how it has shaped child

City of South Fulton Fire Capt. Andrea Hall said

well-being across Greater Atlanta. Gain insights,

(and signed!) when she delivered the Pledge of

tools for courageous conversations, resources for

Allegiance at the inauguration of President Joe

healing, and connections to a network of leaders.

Biden in Washington, D.C., where Kamala Harris

Join United Way of Greater Atlanta to learn, grow, and reimagine the path forward, together.

12

podcasts, and ways to take action. Anyone can par-

became the nation’s first African American and woman vice-president.

Thousands of Greater Atlantans will participate,

“I am thrilled and humbled to represent fire-

beginning in March, when they will receive three

fighters and other frontline workers in the state of

emails for seven weeks of readings, videos,

Georgia and the City of South Fulton,” she said.

SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

“It is a privilege and an honor to help usher in a new

testing to the community. Nine hundred children

chapter of leadership for our country,” Hall added.

and adults were tested at Ben Hill UMC between

Hall is the first African American female firefighter to serve as captain of the City of South Fulton’s Fire Rescue Department. She was promoted to this rank in 2004 by Fulton County, prior to her joining the City of South Fulton. Hall is the local chapter president of the International Association of Fire Fighters (3920) in Georgia. She has dedicated 28 years of her life in service as a firefighter.

BEN HILL UMC VIRTUAL MLK DAY SERVICE Rev. Dr. David Hooker was the guest speaker.

August and December.

View the MLK Jr. Day Service online at BenHillUMC.org.

KIDSGYM USA® RECEIVES GRANT TO SUPPORT HIGH SCHOOL CHEER PROGRAMS KiDsGyM USA® in College Park is excited to announce that it’s a grant recipient of the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation in support of its Flippin’ for Life (Go Girl!) program for the 2020-2021 school year.

He is a core faculty member of the Kroc Institute for

With a goal to ultimately impact more than

International Peace Studies, a part of the Keough

10,000 kids and their families, Flippin’ for Life (Go

School of Global Affairs at Notre Dame. He spoke

Girl!) will begin a statewide initiative following the

on the subject, “Agape Love,” the key to building a

COVID pandemic in Georgia to promote diversity

beloved community.

and inclusion. By extending gymnastics funda-

The service featured Community Awards. The recipients were:

mentals—a sport often inaccessible in urban and minority communities—to schools and recreation

+ Vickie Calloway- Ben Hill Food Bank

centers in such communities, the afterschool pro-

+ Janet Gordon- Health and Wellness

gram offers girls a unique opportunity. The orga-

+ Kimberli Smith- Outreach

nization also works with cheerleaders to enhance

+ Kendall Clark- Outstanding Youth Award

their tumbling and stunt work, enabling them to

+ Special Recognition was given to Tanja Goode

compete on a higher level in competitive cheer.

for the “Get Out to Vote” campaign and Yolanda

The participating schools for the 2020-2021 school

Robinson who worked with Voter Registration.

year are Washington High on Atlanta’s Westside,

Ben Hill held a Virtual March featuring an update on the Ben Hill Food Bank. The church created

Riverdale High in Clayton County, and Tri-Cities High School in Fulton County.

a drive-through food pantry staffed by a team of

On behalf of KiDsGyM USA®, Inc., Cofounder and

60 volunteers, serving approximately 800 fami-

Executive Director Stephanie Campbell would like

lies a week. Ben Hill UMC also offered COVID-19

to thank the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation.

CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

13

ARTIST’S PALETTE

#QueensMural

HOW SONIA BOOKER USED ART AND COMMUNITY TO EMPOWER

IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE MURDER OF GEORGE FLOYD, SONIA BOOKER, OWNER OF THE STUDIO HOUSE ATLANTA WHICH WAS CONVERTED AMIDST THE PANDEMIC TO A FILM AND PRODUCTION STUDIO, FOUND HERSELF FEELING HELPLESS AND LACKING HOPE. As the mother of a Black son, she was at a loss for ideas on what she could do to change the state of this world. Then, SFL Publisher Michelle Taylor Willis ARTICLE ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY L DEVLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

texted her. “Turn on the news,” she said. “Isn’t that your building?”

It was Booker’s space. Protestors of the injustice had reached her gallery and busted out the windows.

Booker kept being questioned about the damage: “Aren’t you angry?” the reporters asked again and again. On the contrary,

ARTISTS

Booker understood the protestors’ frustration.

“Enough was enough! I don’t condone violence, but I’m the

@dustandpaper (Maisie Thompson)

mother of an 11-year-old son. You can’t hide things from kids. He

@iamsawart (Sharanda Wilburn)

had questions about racism. I had to use what I had,” said Booker,

@uhdeanuh (Adeana Berry)

adding that she wanted to DO something. Then it came to her—

@mrsfrankiebrown (Frankie Brown)

replace the boarded-up windows with murals!

@_swayart (SWAY) @akilsart.jpg (AKILA) @psa_rt (Siana Smith) @gwharper

Before the pandemic hit, Booker’s space was formerly BioBiio, a prominent beauty incubator and she had plans to hold a big expo there. Now that wasn’t going to happen and she had to deal with 12 busted windows. People started to contact her about painting the boarded windows. Maisie Thompson (@dustandpaper)

@watercolor_princess (Dymond Phillips)

reached out and said that this could be an artists’ contribution to

@loudpiant (Elaina)

the movement. She was no stranger to using art as activism and called in like-minded friends to come “paint the women!”

14

SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

“That’s it!” thought Booker. She wanted to maintain

“Mayor Bottoms was selected for the way that

the connection between the many young Black men

she nurtures our city, Harris became a symbol of

and boys and Black women and girls in our commu-

the hope that triumphed over so much pain, and

nity. “Women are so heavily impacted, whether losing

Abrams is a Shero all on her own,” Booker said,

their own lives, like Breonna Taylor and Sandra Bland,

noting that the murals placed these women right in

or those of their sons and daughters.” She thought

your face and at a level of recognition that each one

about mothers, from Mamie Till to Lucy McBath.

deserves. “You will see us!” she laughs.

They ended up engaging a community of 10 women

This is not the last we will see of these murals.

artists. “There was such a camaraderie,” said Booker.

They are currently covered with plexiglass, just in

It was healing; just what she needed.

case, but soon they will travel to be a part of an art

The #QueensMural quickly became a hit, serving as a spot to meet up with friends to have a socially distanced gathering and a pandemic destination to photograph for Instagram.

“It was the biggest tourist attraction in the

show in New Jersey and then to Art Basel in Miami.

This work will be preserved.

“It was an honor to present this art as a form of protest,” says Booker. “It was a pleasure to bring a voice to something that was being silenced.”

city for a while!”

They added three new queens: Mayor Keisha Lance

Visit QueensMural.com which will remain after

Bottoms (her first mural!), Changemaker Leader Stacey

the boards come down. Follow the photo opps at

Abrams, and new Vice President Kamala D. Harris!

#queensmural.

CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

15

My name is Dr. Richard Harris. As you are likely aware, COVID-19 has severely impacted the African American community. African Americans have a nearly 3 times higher rate of infection, 5 times higher rate of hospitalization and over 2 times higher death rate than other ethnic groups.

We currently have a FDA approved clinical trial for African Americans recently diagnosed with COVID. If you or someone you know meets the following criteria.

You can be a part of history.

PLEASE CONTACT US TODAY Toll Free Number 1-833-463-6664 www.aacovidstudy.com

ARE YOU?

African American Between the ages of 50 and 85 Positive COVID test within the past 72 hours At least one co-morbidity such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, obesity, smoker or pulmonary disease

Being diagnosed with COVID is scary. Our clinical trial will give you the tools, remote monitoring and resources you need to recover. If you qualify, you will receive $100 cash for completing the 30 day study.

You will receive a pulse oximeter that will monitor your blood oxygen levels and a blood pressure monitor. You will have someone call and check on you 2-3 times per we week and monitor your progress.

Being diagnosed with COVID does not have to be a scary situation. We have a very promising drug candidate that is safe and effective.

We need your help to stop the unnecessary illness and deaths in the African American community.

We know the only way to see a change is to BE THE CHANGE IN IMPACTING THE HEALTH DISPARITIES OF AFRICAN AMERICANS.

For more information, please visit

www.aacovidstudy.com

INTRODUCING the HISTORIC COLLEGE PARK OFFICE

1876 Princeton Aveue, College Park, Georgia 30337 “A home is one of the most important assets that most people will ever buy.

Homes are also where memories are made and you want to work with someone you can trust.”

WARREN BUFFETT CHAIRMAN & CEO BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY, INC

With its central location, many attractions, and diverse and welcoming community, College Park boasts small-town charm with the convenience of metropolitan living.

We’re excited to provide home buyers and sellers in this rapidly growing community with the expertise, service and global marketing power that only Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices can offer. A city where growth and progress embrace the past to enhance the future, Historic College Park anchors the city with its historic Main Street business district. We are very honored to be a part of the community.

Prosperity Mortgage is a proud partner in the vision, growth and development of the College Park “Gateway” office, located near the Gateway Center Arena, home to the WNBA Atlanta Dream. As a large national lender, Prosperity offers a wide array of mortgage programs and services that assist clients in their pursuit of the American dream of homeownership. Owning a home provides an opportunity to accumulate wealth through building home equity. It is a core belief of Prosperity to serve its customers in achieving this goal.

Senior Vice President and Managing Broker, Wendy Allen, will lead the sales strategy and enhance the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand experience for agents and clients in South Fulton. As a top-rated real estate brokerage in Georgia, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ new College Park office marks its expansion into one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the state. Our Sales Professionals are here to serve the community, opening new paths and gateways to homeownership, while offering an integrated, full-home services experience.

For more information, please contact: WENDY ALLEN Senior Vice President & Managing Broker 404-348-4529 Wendy.Allen@BHHSGA.com www.College-Park.BHHSGA.com

©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

LOCAL’S CHOICE

D O N A L D H AW K I N S ’ N E W V E N T U R E :

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GET REWARDS FOR SUPPORTING BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES ARTICLE CURTIS BUNN

18

SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

A

FEW HOURS AWAY FROM SOUTH FULTON AT ALBANY STATE

Officer Jamera Jackson, and the only Black-owned

UNIVERSITY, DONALD HAWKINS STUDIED EDUCATOR W.E.B. DUBOIS,

bank in Texas, Unity National Bank. First Boulevard will

WHO ARGUED THAT “COLLEGE-EDUCATED BLACK MEN SHOULD SAC-

feature early direct deposit, cash back for buying Black,

RIFICE THEIR PERSONAL INTERESTS AND USE THEIR EDUCATION TO

no hidden bank fees, and national ATM access.

LEAD AND BETTER THE BLACK COMMUNITY.”

“Black America can win if it takes control of its

That notion never left Hawkins, an entrepreneur who has flourished in the

$1.4 trillion in annual economic impact,” Hawkins

technology space. And when George Floyd was killed in May 2020, DuBois’

said. “I researched the success stories in other com-

charge swelled in importance to Hawkins.

munities that utilized their communal dollars to build

The result is the development of a Black-owned digital bank, First Boulevard,

themselves up. Black America is desperately in need

an online financial institution “focused specifically on improving the financial

of this. Instead of just being angry and frustrated

livelihood of Black America,” Hawkins said.

with the systemic issues holding back my commu-

The reasons for this ambition are clear: “Black America is by far the most mobile-

nity, I’d place my energy and resources into develop-

exclusive community when it comes to banking in America, and as a digital-only bank,

ing meaningful solutions to help Black America win.”

we couldn’t be in a better position,” Hawkins said. “First Boulevard is focused on placing state-of-the-art banking tools and features in the palms of our members’ hands.”

To close the growing wealth gap in America, Black support of Black business is critical. Towns

First Boulevard, Hawkins said, will launch in the third quarter of this year. Those

like Rosewood, Florida, and Tulsa, Oklahoma,

interested in joining its early access list can do so by signing up on the website,

were all-Black communities of a bygone era that

BankBlvd.com. Investors include actress Gabrielle Union, AutoZone Chief Financial

flourished with Black-owned businesses. At the center of those cities were Black-owned banks.

Rapper Killer Mike has also launched a digital bank, Greenwood, to address the need.

“It’s something I support,” said Joe Dean Roberts, a College Park resident. “We have to spend with each other to lift each other. That’s what other races have done. We have to make the difference for ourselves. We have to.”

Indeed, Hawkins pointed out, “In 1869, Goldman Sachs was founded by a Rabbi’s son, because at the time, Jewish Americans were having a hard time placing their dollars in White banks. Similarly, Italian Americans founded Bank of Italy that grew into what we know today as Bank of America. With both examples, those communities were able to use financial platforms to boost their circulation of money—something Black America is desperately in need of.”

There are 41 Black-owned banks in the country, 21 of which are not-for-profit credit unions, according to Investopedia.

“Black banks were a critical part of the movement for Black America,” Hawkins said. “Similar to HBCUs, Black banks were established as a safe haven for Black dollars after many disastrous and sinister occurrences in the banking industry that largely resulted in the Black community being on the losing end.

“Representation matters and it’s critically important that Black America creates its own seat at the table,” Hawkins asserted. “Black banks could play a pivotal role in helping our community in controlling our $1.4 trillion in annual economic impact. It’s of the utmost importance.”

CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

19

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE STEVIE PETERSON

The Heartbreak of Westlake REMEMBERING THE ROBINSONS

NO ONE COULD HAVE IMAGINED THAT A COUPLE’S GETAWAY WOULD END SO TRAGICALLY. Principal Jamar Robinson and the love of his life—his cheerleader, his number one supporter, his friend, the mother of his sons—Ann Marie decided a break from the lockdowns was well-deserved.

The couple chose Puerto Rico—a place they had visited several times before. It would be a nice change of scenery from the year that was 2020, studying for their doctorates (they both had plans to obtain doctoral degrees) amidst constant COVID-19 news and online classes; he was the principal of Westlake High School and she was a professor at Georgia State.

“According to the local account, the couple were at a beach resort in San Juan, where Robinson’s wife, Annmari Robinson[sic], became caught in a rip current while swimming. The principal then tried to get out into the water to save her,” broadcasted the “11 Alive” newscaster.

Everything changed November 8, 2020. Since their trip was to be a weekend visit, the couple opted for a quick swim just behind their hotel. Sadly, Ann Marie got caught in a rip current and screamed for help; in his effort to rescue her, Jamar was also overcome by the ocean’s power. Though people tried, they couldn’t resuscitate either, changing the lives of everyone who knew them and cutting short the chance to watch their sons grow, complete their doctorates, or continue working with their sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha.

22

SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

As the shock of the news spread, the people who loved them knew their lives would forever change,

The Heartbreak of the Mentee: Kimberlee Bunting, Fellow Rattler (FAMU) and Westlake Educator

including immediate family, students, colleagues,

“Mr. Robinson started as the assistant principal,

sorority and fraternity members, church family, class-

then for the next three years served as principal of our

mates, and friends. The loss was devastating—the

school. I would arrive every morning between 7:15 and

world would now never be graced with the genius

7:30 a.m., and he would greet me. Mr. Robinson was

that was the Robinson couple. As the sun dared to rise

what they call, ‘suited and booted’ every day, but that

starting the first day after the loss of the Robinsons,

never stopped him from doing the necessary work to

reality hit that Westlake High School students would

ensure our school was one in which the students could

not be seeing that gentle smile greet them. Incoming

be proud. I saw him kneeling on the ground one morn-

freshman and transferring students that have yet to

ing after the school was opened to students, placing

attend Westlake High School will never have the honor

placards on the ground directing traffic flow in such a

of hearing a word of advice from Principal Robinson.

way that it would minimize exposure to COVID-19. Mr.

His sons will never have the chance to hear the fatherly

Robinson took such pride in our school, rolling out the

wisdom that Jamar would pour upon them, nor will they

blue carpet to new students like a young female stu-

be subjected to those long stories dads are known to tell

dent whose mother had been deployed. Mr. Robinson

when explaining things. That first drive in the new car

walked her to every class, introducing her to other

with Dad as a passenger will never happen. Introducing

students and teachers. Mr. Robinson was a proud

“the one” to Dad will never happen. His family will not see

drum major for FAMU, a Rattler at heart, and true to

the greatness that he had yet to release into the atmo-

his nature, he was the drum major for Westlake. He

sphere. Time stopped for Jamar and his wife that day, and

was the ultimate servant-leader. You can never quan-

it became the heartbreak of Westlake.

tify what a person means to you until they are gone.

To understand how the news of this tragedy rocked

When I first heard the news, I didn’t want to believe it,

the lives of some who knew him best, I felt the best

and when the news said, ‘Jamal,’ I wanted to believe

approach was to allow each person to speak freely.

it was someone else, but the correction was issued

From an unanswered text asking for more information

confirming it was him—it was too much to bear.”

about a student who Robinson recommended to attend his beloved FAMU, to the alumni Facebook group where his input did not appear, to the office lights that were never turned on, the gravity of this loss is deep:

The Heartbreak of the Assistant: Ouida Burke, Westlake High School “One thing about him, I always knew where he was. He was also highly competitive; like one day,

The Heartbreak of Southwest Dekalb High

he arrived at the school before I did and sent me a

School Alumni: Dr. Cassandra Parks, Let’s Learn

“GAME OVER” text and a picture of him, verifying

Love, LLC, Class of ’93

he had indeed won—even though we weren’t com-

Dr. Parks attended high school with Jamar and was

peting—at least I didn’t think we were, but he liked

friends with his older brother. “I remember Jamar being

competition, healthy competition. Jamar was a true

a sweet, lovely spirit. He and his brothers were raised

friend, who you knew actually cared about how you

by their father. It was a really nice family. I remember

were feeling. He was a very good listener; it’s like as

him being in the band and eventually moving on to the

you talked, he listened, reaching into himself to pull

drums his senior year. I heard that he went to FAMU

from some of the most diplomatic places in his spirit

and was a drum major. He was a great guy. Really

to provide sound advice. The morning of November

good stock—the whole family was just wonderful.”

9, I hadn’t gotten the text bragging that he’d arrived

Southwest Dekalb High School Alumni are some of the

early again, thus winning the competition. I could

closest alumni groups in the Atlanta area.

feel something was wrong. The door to his office

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SoFu

23

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

was closed; the lights were off. Jamar would always

made each person he spoke to feel like they had his

turn the lights to his office on, leave the door open,

undivided attention. It was the sound advice that he gave

and he would always tell me where he was in the

with care and compassion that will be remembered.

building. This time, I knew something wasn’t right.

The video he recorded for the Westlake High

When I found out what had happened, all I could

School graduating class of 2020 promising them

think was how could this happen to Superman? How

he would not allow the cumulation of the years they

could one of the strongest people I know allow him-

spent in school since kindergarten to be overshad-

self to be vulnerable at the worst possible moment?

owed by the coronavirus is available on YouTube.

But I knew. He loved his family, he loved his wife, and

The song, “Keep Your Head to the Sky,” will always

I knew that he would have had it no other way. He

remind the class of 2020 of him. It was highlighting

would’ve tried to save anyone, that’s who he was. He

the students by featuring pictures of them on bill-

wouldn’t let you go down by yourself, but her—there

boards prominently displayed around the city where

could not have been a thought.

they would be celebrated—they will never forget.

We are back in the building now and though we have

His impact on the lives of others is why on the 8th

2,100 students enrolled, only 300 have opted for in-person

of each month a token of love is given to his sons. His

learning. The pain weighs heavy on our seniors, the

sons—the ones that during their first Christmas with-

class of 2021. These are the students that matriculated

out Mom and Dad asked, “Do you think Dad would

through with Principal Robinson. His first year was their

like how we decorated the tree? It would be so much

freshman year and he so looked forward to their gradu-

better if he was here.”

ation and seeing all that life had to shower upon them.

They were HIS class. There is definitely a void here.”

The heartbreak of Westlake may become less painful over time, but there will always be a void. It is often said that each of us has a beginning date and an end-

As I listened to each person share what they knew

ing date, and it is what we do between that matters.

of Principal Robinson, it struck me to think about how

Principal Robinson in the time he was gifted shared

I would be remembered. Was I fully engaged in every

his passion, talent, love, professionalism, and care,

moment? Do I listen intently in order to provide advice,

which changed everyone he met.

or am I waiting for my turn to talk? Do people know

There will always be a part of him at Westlake

what I am passionate about? Am I all in? These are

High School; the graduating seniors will always

also the questions that those who are dealing with the

carry a part of him—whether it was his celebration

void they now have to accept ask themselves.

of test scores, recommendations to college, walks

He was passionate about his work and inspired

in the hallways, a hug for an unruly student versus

others to take pride in their work. He loved his school,

scolding, or just a simple “good morning,” it’s his

his students, his teachers. If he asked the staff to work

saying, “Never let them see you broken,” that will

long days, he also worked long days.

help those he touched when they are faced with a

He cheered for the Westlake High School football team from the sidelines, never missing a game. The pride in his school was contagious.

24

challenge, that’s how he handled obstacles.

Most importantly, a part of him will always be with his sons. They will always know that their father

Principal Robinson loved his family and would take

loved their mother deeply. It is rare in this world

pride in those rare nights the workday ended early; it

to find the one for whom you would give your very

was then he would cook dinner, and then put his sons

life, the one that you would spend eternity with, but

to bed. Anyone who heard him speak of his family

as fate would have it, Jamar found Ann Marie—the

knew they were the highlight of his life.

soulmate with whom he shared 14 earthly years and

It was seeing him win a game at Andretti, on the first

now forever. His sons, I hope, over time, will accept

try, of course, during a team-building staff meeting that

that neither Mom nor Dad would have returned from

encouraged others to engage in the fun. It was how he

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GEORGIA, DID NOT HAVE AN ORGANIZED PARKS AND

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RECREATION DEPARTMENT IN THEIR COMMUNITY. However,

Presently, the needs of the community have changed once again,

that changed with the hiring of a parks and recreation director.

faced with the challenges of COVID-19. The entire focus has again

Along with his staff, the director worked vigorously to develop

shifted to meet the recreational needs of the community. A major

youth activities and programs, such as football, basketball, base-

concern was to find ways to provide uplifting leisure activities for

ball, and cheerleading, for the community. With the support of the

community members. New activities include an outdoor skate

community, Union City Parks and Recreation flourished and the

park, ping pong table, corn hole station, volleyball and fitness sta-

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tion located at the baseball complex on Highway 29 in Union City.

As the saying goes, “Everything is temporary; nothing is per-

Families are invited to enjoy these new recreational options, made

manent.” The Parks and Recreation Department has found this

possible by the Parks and Recreation Department’s dedication to

statement to be true, as the formerly thriving place of enjoyment

provide a healthy quality of life for all South Fulton citizens.

transformed when area children began aging out of the programs,

Director’s Quote: The greatest challenge facing Parks and Rec-

making them ineligible to participate in youth recreational sports.

reation professionals today is to create diverse programming to

Established families moved out of the area, replaced by millennials

accommodate the changing needs of our community. Our goal

looking for other types of recreational programming. To stay current,

should be to enhance the quality of life of ALL participants. This

the department introduced more outdoor activities for families to

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SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

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SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

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HOMETOWN HERO

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WOODWARD ACADEMY SENIOR KHARI GEE IS

to use the game as a way to express himself and his

EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF

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NOTRE DAME NEXT FALL. Playing the position of

for his talents both on and off the field.

safety for the Woodward Academy War Eagles, the star

“I think the players there value education just like I do,”

athlete made the decision back in mid-December of

said Gee, who plans to major in Business. He had the full

last year to decommit from Louisiana State University

support of his parents and coach when he reached his

and set his sights on the Indiana institution after careful

decision. He hopes his transition from high school to col-

thought and consideration. Gee will play for the Notre

lege will be a smooth one amid the pandemic of COVID-19.

Dame Fighting Irish. The teen has been playing football

“Hopefully, by the time I get to college, the virus becomes

since kindergarten and has always enjoyed the ability ARTICLE JUSTICE VICTORIA FREDERICKS

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SoFu Lifestyle | March 2021

less of a factor so I can have the full college experience.”

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TREND SETTER

T H R O U G H T H E L E N S O F LOV E TASHA COBBS LEONARD LAUNCHES FRITZ EYEWEAR

FRITZ EYEWEAR IS AN EYEWEAR COLLECTION BY GRAMMY

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THE LEGACY

ence life through a different lens—a lens of fun, love, and stability,”

In honor of her father, Fritz Cobbs, Tasha desired to create an eyewear

says Tasha, noting that Fritz traveled to different cities to connect with

collection that would express her father’s heart to “LOVE EVERYBODY.”

supporters and offer a first-class experience via pop-up shops. “The

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