Take Flight! with the Men of South Fulton

JUNE 2016

South FultonSouthFultonLifestyle.com LIFESTYLE™

Take Flight! With the men of south fulton

PLAY BALL WITH THE COACHES OF THE BOMBERS A CONVERSATION WITH ATLANTA FALCON JULIO JONES come enjoy our

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Tkt # 1 Ticket Name Resize creative for magazine ad Round 4 Printed Scale None Printed on CX700_ProcessPrint Trim 8.375” w x 10.875” h Folded Size None Placed Graphics Mode Eff Res Inks 34040_CFALanyard3.psd CMYK 270 ppi Cyan 7.75” w x 10.375” h None PMS_152_dotted_line_Lg_CMYK.eps Magenta Live Area Gutter Size 33921_COWS.psd CMYK 1297 ppi Yellow 75926_IMG_0656.psd CMYK 333 ppi Black None 75926_IMG_0658.psd CMYK 297 ppi Bleed 8.5” w x 11.125” h Folded Panels Instagram_Icon_Large.psd CMYK 1557 ppi FB-fLogo-printpackaging.ai Twitter_logo_white_01_2015.eps Production Notes: None Fonts Caecilia LT Std ITC Franklin Gothic Std Client Project Mgr Art Director Studio Artist Proofreader Mechanical 2 Fairburn Campus | Established 1879 320 W. Broad Street, Fairburn, GA 30213 | 678-379-1414 Start Here...Go Anywhere A State of Georgia Public Institution | No Military Obligation Duel-Enrollment course available | Daytime, Evening & Weekend Classes Fully Accredited by Southern Association of Colleges & Schools

Awards & Recognition

CNN Money-9th Best Community College Washington Monthly-12th Best Community College The Best Schools-14th Best Community College CollegeAtlas.org-Top 25 Best Community Colleges Victory Media-Designated a “Military Friendly School” APPLY ONLINE TODAY! www.GMC.edu Georgia Military College (GMC) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to award associate degrees. The accreditation of the Fairburn campus is dependent upon the continued accreditation of its parent campus, Georgia Military College of Milledgeville, Georgia.

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 3 Lifestyle Letter

Somebody's JUNE 2016 Got to Do It publisher Michelle Willis | [email protected]

editor i South Fulton, Erikka Mitchell | [email protected] Sometimes I can’t believe my job. I’ve publisher assistant Hshared with you before, and it bears repeating, Donna Dow | [email protected] that this job is a labor of love, especially when copy editor the issue is about the men in this area. It was Azrielle Roundtree tough to interview some of these guys, each one more delightful than the next, and each one so contributing writers very committed to our community. It was a real Tenisha Bell, E. B. Drake Tiffany Powell Photography chore to flip through all of the pictures of the contributing photographers handsome, dapper gentlemen to select the very Tiffany Powell Photography, Pitter Productions, best photos. But most of all it was really difficult to choose the Men of South Fulton that Art by Benitez, Jaime Grant, Scott Areman you see before you in this issue. So my staff and I decided to showcase for you as many south fulton lifestyle guys as we could fit into our pages. “The Men of South Fulton” is not just the feature 404.982.4535 but rather they can be found throughout the magazine this month. There’s a story on the awesome and inspiring coaches of the Bombers baseball team. There’s a piece on Rico CORPORATE TEAM

Wade of Organized Noize and music industry exec Orlando McGhee. There are profiles CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | Steven Schowengerdt of doctors, politicians, and fitness experts. There’s an article on the number one program CHIEF SALES OFFICER | Matthew Perry that is getting young men ready for college and to play football with the help of Glenn Ford and Atlanta Falcon, Julio Jones. So enjoy South Fulton. We’ve done all the hard CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER | DeLand Shore work. You’re welcome. DIRECTOR OF MARKETING | Brad Broockerd

ART DIRECTOR | Sara Minor P.S. Did you see our all call for guys in our Facebook group? If not, isn’t it about time you EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | Nicole Sylvester gave us a like? We can also always be reached at [email protected]. AD COORDINATORS | Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER | Nicolette Martin

DESIGN SPECIALIST | Ashleigh Thomson

Erikka Mitchell, Editor EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT | Melanie Carlisle

[email protected] APPLICATION ARCHITECT | Michael O’Connell

WEB DEVELOPER | Hanna Park

by Community ™

SouthFultonLifestyle.com P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

Proverbs 3:5-6 JOIN US TALK TO US ON THE COVER A few of the #MenOfSOFU Zed, Josh, and South Fulton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of South Fulton’s most affluent Kamar shot on location at McCollum Airport. neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANY POWELL PHOTOGRAPHY any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in South Fulton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to 4 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. PROTECT YOUR Health

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Full Service Salon Professional Atmosphere Quality Service and Products en are often reluctant to visit a physician for Walk-ins Welcome routine medical care and to follow up with appropriate specialists. This is a mistake that can 3830 Princeton Lakes Ct, Suite 500 Mliterally cost men their lives. Statistics show that men are sicker Atlanta, Georgia 30331 and die earlier than women. This disparity is even greater 404-629-2772 in the African American population but holds true across all racial and ethnic groups in the United States. In 1920, women lived on average one year longer than men. Today, according to the CDC, women live approximately 5 years longer than men. Most men take pride in taking care of their wives, their children, their parents and their community. It HOMEOWNERS/RENTERS AUTO is time that we also take pride in taking care of ourselves. Many of the diseases that result in early death among men can be detected and controlled by developing a relationship with a good primary care physician. Risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease can often be detected and controlled before permanent damage occurs. Additionally, many types of cancer such as prostate and colon cancer can be detected and cured if recognized at an early stage. Many lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, smoking cessation, minimizing alcohol consumption, and incorporating exercise into your daily life can significantly reduce a man’s chance of a premature death. Being educated about your health and following through with lifestyle recommendations made by your doctor are perhaps the most important gifts that you can give to your family. Your health must be your number one priority and it is up to you to protect it. If your family, your job and your community are important to you, so must be your health because without it you cannot provide for, nor protect them. Let us all make a commitment this month to protect our health from this day LIFE BUSINESS forward! Your Insurance Agency Close To Home!

4545 Butner Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30349 Pickens A. Patterson III, MD 770.969.0888 3885 Princeton Lakes Way #400, Atlanta, GA 30349 678-399-5269 | www.spinepains.com

June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 5 June 2016 Departments

8 Good Times 22 12 Around Town 16 Financial Buzz

32 Local Limelight

35 Sold Properties

36 Giving Back

38 Lifestyle Calendar

42 Parting Thoughts

18 Play Ball! The Coaches of the Championship Winning Bombers Baseball Team

22 League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Introducing the Men of South Fulton

36 Exploring the I Dare U Academy Glenn Ford and Julio Jones Help Area Youth Get Ready for College

18 28 36

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South Fulton’s Shaun Banks of Warrior KingScholarship summer camp was a proud sponsorGala in attendance, along with speakers: scholarship recipient Jonathan Butler, keynote speaker Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and honoree CT Vivian. PHOTOGRAPHY ART BY BENETEZ

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 11 Around Town

Breastfeeding is a critical public health issue. Babies who are not breastfed experience more episodes of diarrhea, ear infections, and AROUND lower respiratory tract infections and are at higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome, diabetes and obesity; breastfeeding also helps protect mothers from breast and cervical cancer. Grimmett explains the campaign’s ultimate goal, “We hope that more airports and businesses TOWN will model the actions of Hartsfield and also add lactation spaces to accommodate breastfeeding mothers”. To learn more about the Table for Two Campaign or to contact the community advocates, you may ATLANTA MOTHERS HELP BRING LACTATION follow them on Twitter @MonicaLPonder and @SojournerRuth. ROOMS TO THE NATION’S BUSIEST AIRPORT Community activists are improving the lives of working mothers by challenging businesses to provide breastfeeding support through successful lactation room campaign. For the first time, the world's busiest airport is giving nursing moms a quiet place to pump or breastfeed when they travel. It's a big improvement from the public restrooms, which used to be the only option for nursing moms at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Three years ago, a social media campaign developed by two local mothers used images of models eating in bathrooms to try to convince the airport to become more family-friendly. Prior to the campaign launch, the airport offered no dedicated lactation WELLSTAR EXPANDS FOOTPRINT rooms but touted 16 smoking AND NOW SERVES NEW COMMUNITIES rooms for commuters- breast- WellStar Health System is expanding its footprint beyond its his- feeding mothers were askedto toric Northwest Georgia base. Beginning today, WellStar is bringing use the public restrooms or its vision of world-class healthcare to new communities and patients, call ahead to reserve a confer- following due diligence, regulatory review, and thorough integration ence room. South Fulton's own planning. As a not-for-profit, WellStar continues to reinvest back in the Sojourner Marable Grimmett communities it serves with new treatments, technologies, and facilities. and Monica Ponder developed With the acquisition of Tenet Healthcare’s five Georgia-based hos- the Campaign. Ponder is a pitals and a new partnership with West Georgia Health in LaGrange, public health advocate and Ga., WellStar becomes the largest health system in Georgia and one Grimmett is a blogger and family of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the country. The new 11 Monica Ponder and advocate. The Campaign, aptly hospital system will expand upon its proven clinical care models and Sojourner Marable Grimmett named “Table for Two,” uses patient safety programs that have resulted in increased quality and Photo by Tiffany Powell Photography images of models eating in improved access to healthcare to new communities. bathrooms to demonstrate the barriers working mothers face (pic- “As WellStar continues on the journey to deliver world-class ture a teenage boy blissfully eating pizza next to a urinal). The tagline healthcare our physicians, nurses and team members put the patient for the campaign asks, “Would you eat in the bathroom? (Of course and family first,” said Candice Saunders, president & CEO of WellStar not, because eating in the restroom is gross.) So why would you ask Health System. “With an expanded footprint, we will leverage best a baby to?” It challenges public spaces and businesses to designate practices to make a difference in the health of our communities by a private room with a table and chair so that mothers can breastfeed delivering the right care, at the right time in the right place.” or pump in private, if they choose too. Oftentimes, in order for milk to Joining WellStar’s existing five hospitals are: WellStar Atlanta “let down", mothers need a quiet and clean environment to pump and Medical Center, WellStar Atlanta Medical Center South, WellStar express milk. “This campaign demonstrates the challenges breast- North Fulton Hospital, WellStar Spalding Regional Hospital, WellStar feeding mothers face when returning to work or travelling,” explains Sylvan Grove Hospital and WellStar West Georgia Medical Center. Ponder, “Without adequate accommodations at work or other public All facilities will now be operated as not-for-profits. WellStar spaces, many women stop breastfeeding before they are ready.” Medical Group, one of the largest employed physician groups in the

CONTINUED >

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 13 Around Town (CONTINUED)

Southeast, will expand to more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice professionals across more than 200 medical office locations and numerous outpatient facilities. With approximately 20,000 team members, WellStar remains committed to its Employer of Choice strategy that has led to numerous accolades for work-life balance, including being named to Fortune magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list for the past three years. “At WellStar, we are creating an atmosphere that fosters healing and wellness,” said Gary Miller, chair of WellStar Board of Trustees. “We are changing the way we care for our communities with cutting edge treatments and new initiatives that keep people healthy. Today, Lt Col Creal WellStar is better positioned to provide world-class healthcare to our patients for years to come.” evaluation by CC Air Izmir in over five years. He was selected as the Headquarters Field Grade Officer of the Year for 2009. SOUTH FULTON’S OWN LT. COL. DIALLO In 2010, the Creals were reassigned to the 479th Flying Training Group "DOC" CREAL'S USAF RETIREMENT AND Pensacola NAS, FL. At NAS Pensacola, Lt Col Creal instructs Undergraduate EXEMPLARY AVIATION CAREER Combat Systems Officers in the T-6A. He has performed additional jobs Lt Col Diallo DOC Creal retired recently with stellar accomplish- to include Assistant Director of Operations, Director of Operations, and ments. He earned a Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster Chief of Student Check Section. He maintains qualifications for formation, which was authorized by President Obama's executive order. Lt Col Advanced Handling Characteristics Instructor, Functional Check Flight Diallo ‘DOC’ Creal hails from Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Benjamin Pilot and Instructor, Simulator Instructor and Check Pilot. The Creals are E. Mays High School graduating from its Science and Mathematics the proud parents of two children, Aaron and Zora. Academy with honors in 1992. DOC was accepted to and earned his As "Doc" closes out his Air Force career, he's excitedly looking commission from the United States Air Force Academy graduating forward to returning to Atlanta to start a new career as a Delta pilot. in 1996. From there he attended Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Lt Col Creal accepted an offer of employment from Delta Air Lines. Training at Columbus AFB, MS. Following pilot training, DOC was selected for Pilot Instructor ERIC DUNLAP JOINS PINK FROG Training at Randolph Air Force Base, TX and in 1998 was assigned as FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS a T-37 first assignment instructor pilot 41st Flying Training Squadron, Eric Dunlap, founder of Dunlap Speaks, LLC, has joined the board Columbus AFB, MS. During this time Lt Col Creal was active in of directors for The Pink Frog Foundation (PFF). Dunlap is a 16 year the Columbus chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen as well as becom- breast cancer survivor. "We're excited about Eric's decision to become ing an RSU observer, check pilot and assistant Flight Commander. affiliated with the Foundation," said Tammy L. Bolton, co-founder and Lt Col Creal then attended Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals at executive director of PFF. "He represents the 1 out of 2,000 men annually Randolph AFB, TX. There he was selected as Distinguished Graduate, who are diagnosed with breast cancer. He will assist us with spreading and proceeded to A-10 initial fighter training at Davis-Monthan AFB, the message about men and breast cancer," Bolton continued. AZ. In 2002 he was assigned to Osan Air Base, Korea were he Dunlap is also an active participant on the American Cancer quickly upgraded to A-10 Forward Air Controller and Combat Search Society Speaker's Bureau, Susan G. Komen Speaker's Bureau, and and Rescue pilot. After a year-long tour in Korea, DOC moved to the National Cancer Survivors Speaker's Bureau. The Pink Frog Spangdahlem Air Base Germany. During this time he became a 4-ship Foundation, Inc., founded in flight lead and was deployed twice to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan 2012 by Tammy and Robert in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. H. Bolton, is a registered In 2006, he was selected for an assignment to Holloman Air Force 501 (c)(3) non-profit orga- Base New Mexico to fly the F-117A stealth fighter. Among other nization and operates pur- duties, he served as the Wing’s Executive Officer and completed a suant to the Georgia Non- four month deployment to Kunsan Air Base, Korea. Shortly after his Profit Corporation code. return from Korea in 2008, DOC married his high school sweetheart The Foundation provides DeAnna Renee Creal, also of Atlanta, GA. The Creals were then maid service, nutrition sup- selected for assignment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s port, and transportation (NATO) southern air headquarters in Izmir, Turkey. While assigned services to breast cancer to CC Air Izmir, Lt Col Creal conducted regular evaluations of NATO patients while they are units, quick reaction air alert assets and led the first nuclear readiness under going treatment. Eric Dunlap

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 15 Financial Buzz

Is Your Lifestyle Temporary?

ARTICLE ANDRE WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

n the song “Live it Up,” written by R&B songwriter John Legend, the lyrics reflect a shift from a life of struggle and hardship (no Imore robbing Peter to pay Paul or putting it in the lay-a-way) to one of prosperity and celebration of the good life. Similarly, this is what occurs when we advance in our career or business and experience a gradual increase in income that creates the opportunity to elevate our standard of living. Whereas Outback was the go-to back in the day when times were leaner, Rathbun’s is the place for a good steak now. K&G was a staple for suits when ends didn’t quite meet then Men’s Wearhouse became the norm as cash flows improved followed by cus- • Manage cash flows: No more spending on a whim. tomized threads compliments of a personal tailor. Those clothes have Track & analyze your spending and cut back on non-essential pur- to go somewhere right? No problem because that income helped get a chases. Implement a budget and add investing as an expense line item. mortgage approved on a dream house with a huge walk-in closet and 3 • Work toward saving 15-20% of your income car garage for those dream cars too. All the hard work has paid off and annually: Your savings rate is actually more important than the good life is here, but is it here to stay or is it temporary? your rate of return. Building wealth requires that adequate amounts If you are a high income earner with no game plan to accumulate be saved monthly to reach your goals & your 401k contributions wealth, the reality is that your lifestyle may be at risk. Think about alone likely won’t be enough. Keep in mind that employer contribu- it. If you lost your job today, how would the mortgage, car note, tions count too! groceries, nanny, and kid’s private school tuition get paid and how • Invest excess cash in the bank: Money doesn’t long would your savings support these obligations? If the outlook is grow on trees or in banks either these days. Transition cash beyond grim and you’re back to robbing Peter to pay Paul, then you may have the equivalent of 6-12 months living expenses to your investment a higher level of paycheck dependency than you know. account so it can grow for you. Many of us take our income for granted possessing a false sense • Invest in a tax efficient manner: Taxes reduce your of comfort in knowing that the next paycheck will soon come. This wealth! Utilize strategies that limit their impact on the growth of blind euphoria is like riding on a calm river before the waterfall. All your assets. is well until it’s not. It’s the reason I’ve met prospective clients over • Diversify assets: Be sure your portfolio is properly diver- the years wanting to invest $100,000 for the next 4-6 years because sified across the various asset classes to help control volatility and retirement “snuck up on them” and they had not saved over the last improve long term performance. 30 years (I mean zero) and needed to catch up even though they were Here’s to the good life lasting a lifetime! earning $300k+ per year during that time. Shockingly, despite that short savings window, some expected to replace a good portion of Andre Williams is the Founder & President of Piv- their income! Remember that waterfall? otal Wealth Management, LLC, an independent Ideally, your dependency on your salary should become less over financial advisory firm that offers a suite of wealth the years as you build your wealth, but this requires proactive and management, retirement, and insurance solutions deliberate planning on your part. Here are some quick tips to put for clients. He can be contacted at 404.969.1214 or you on the right path: emailed at [email protected].

16 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 Play. Learn. Grow.

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 17 Left to right: Brian Grant, Cedric Tate, Tarveras Tate, Roland Grimmett, Juan Lyles

PLAY BALL! Coaching the Bomber Boys

ARTICLE E. B. DRAKE he Camp Creek PHOTOGRAPHY JAIME GRANT Bombers are the littleT league baseball team affiliated with Sandtown Park. The team was founded by Tarveres Tate in 2013. In the spring of 2014, the Bombers proudly brought home the title of the Sandtown Baseball Tournament by turning in a decisive win at the end of an undefeated season. In the summer of 2015, the Bombers team competed in the Dizzy Dean tournament, making it park. Tarveres decided to not only talk the to the championship game. In 2016, the Sandtown Bombers talk, but walk the walk. He asked his brother, Cedric Tate to won the Jackie Robinson Invitational 6U Tournament. join him and they took off running. His son Myles is on the By day, Coach Tarveres works as an insurance agent, but Bombers team but he also has an older son who played sports. after work hours he is the Head Coach of the Camp Creek Watching the interaction and the burnout that resulted Bombers. After numerous conversations with his brother from some of the coaching styles encountered by his son, about what they thought should be done with the baseball Coach Tate knew exactly what he wanted to do as a coach. teams at Sandtown Park, Tarveres Tate was approached by He knew that he wanted to mentor and teach the boys the the Sandtown Commisioner about starting a team at the value of team work on and off the field. He wants the kids

18 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 to know how to play and second at the Dizzy Dean respect the game, how to State Tournament. His compete and have fun. He proudest moments, as loves that the “Bomber a dad, were watching Boys” displayed what they his son win the pitchers learned from the coaches award and the commit- while in the tournaments ment award at the Jackie and that he has had the Robinson Tournament. opportunity to see them Growing up, Roland succeed. His relationship Grimmett played basket- with the other coaches ball and baseball. As the is special. It helps him dad of a player, Roland see all sides of the kids’ helped out as often as development. All the he could with the team. coaches are invested in When the head coach the kids and each coach suggested he “make it offi- has his own style of interacting with kids. They are also all competitive, but cial,” Roland stepped up to they are on the same page when it comes to working with the kids. Coach he plate. Coach Grimmett is the 1st base coach on game day, but like all Tate truly loves what he does and he wakes up thinking about what he is the other coaches, he steps in where ever he is needed. He sees the simi- going to do with the kids at practice. He is extremely proud of what the larities between himself and his son as an athlete when it comes to their kids have accomplished: coming in 2nd at the Dizzy Dean Tournament personal characteristics of being coachable their desire to improve. Coach and winning the Jackie Robinson Invitational. He is personally touched Grimmett enjoys the camaraderie with the other dads and the positive role by being able to see his own son transition from playing in the dirt as a models that they are for the kids. He has tremendously enjoyed watching beginning 3 year old player to watching Myles catch the game ending ball the boys grow and seeing their successes not only on the field, but also in during the semifinal game in the state tournament. school. He admits that the coaches are probably enjoying this experience Cedric Tate is the assistant coach of the Camp Creek Bombers. He is as much as the kids are. also the younger brother of head coach Tarveres Tate. Coach Cedric grew Juan Lyles works by day as a drug counselor at the juvenile justice up playing baseball and his father encouraged him play up as an athletically, center, so when Coach Tate asked him to which pushed him to become a better player and stay ahead of the curve. be the team disciplinarian, it was Coach Cedric has a passion for baseball and teaching kids about the way a natural fit. Coach Lyles also the game is supposed to be played. He also recognizes that he is always played sports in college and “Pay learning as a coach. He treats all the kids as if they were his own and steps coaches basketball as well. in to help whenever and wherever he is needed. He works hard to make He has a special fondness attention sure that each child continues to develop their skills. He always encour- for his son playing base- and attention ages them even while he challenges them to play their best. When the ball at Sandtown because will pay you “Bomber Boys” who are now a 6U team, play a 7U team they don’t always his uncle also played at win. He wants the kids to know that if they gave 100% and they learned Sandtown as a youth. He later.” something that it is ok. That challenge teaches them good sportsmanship sees Sandtown as a great and life lessons on how to deal with and learn from losses. On the other side place to teach the fundamen- he is also pleased to see the synergy on the field from the kids when they tals of baseball. As Camp Creek played in the Jackie Robinson Invitational. He can see the growth in the Bombers, the kids are learning the val- kids because the kids know each others strengths and they trust each other. ues of teamwork, discipline, leadership skills, how Coach Brian Grant arguably has had the most personal success as an to win, how to lose, how to take constructive crit- athlete playing both at the collegiate and professional level. He, just like the icism and developing relationships. Coach Lyles knows other coaches, steps in where he is needed and often serves as the outfield due to his daily work life, that these are essential skills that will coach and pitches to kids during games. He has always mentored younger help the boys become successful not only in baseball, but also in life. kids and his transition to help with coaching was natural once his son started playing sports. As a coach, he uses a lot of metaphors that have last- E. B. Drake is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. She is a de- ing impact with the kids, including his favorite; “Pay attention and attention voted wife, a mom to three energetic boys and an educator in a local will pay you later.” His most memorable moment with the team includes school system. E.B. blogs activities for kids in the Southwest Atlanta area at watching the kids win the Jackie Robinson Tournament and coming in SwatzMom.Wordpress.com.

June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 19 CONCERT 2016 SERIES

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ARTICLE TENISHA BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY POWELL

22 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 ZEDRICK CARTER

Doctors said he would never walk again. Atlanta’s finest physicians couldn’t help Zedrick Carter. In 2003 the then healthy, athletic, fit, 25-year-old suddenly collapsed. He became paralyzed from the neck down. “Emory doctors couldn’t understand what was going on,” recalls the 42-year-old. He was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a neurological condition in which the spinal cord is inflamed causing damage to nerve fibers. “After six months, I was transferred to the Shepherd Center to learn to adapt to a wheelchair,” he says. “I had always been active so I couldn’t see what I had done in my life to end up in that position.” For years, Carter faithfully attended rehabilitation everyday. His determination and courage kept him fighting. “I just couldn’t grasp the idea that I would be this way forever. I stayed in rehab everyday.” Then miraculously after the fourth year, Carter began to feel something in his legs. By year five, Carter finally built up enough strength to advance to using a walker. Then eventually he graduated to using a cane. Today the Atlanta native is a Certified Master Fitness & Sports Performance Trainer at Precision Athletic Corps. His unexplainable recovery has mystified even the most intellectual physicians. He’s defied all odds against him. “I am stronger today and in better shape than I’ve ever been,” he beams with pride. “I am running in 5Ks and 10Ks with great timing. I’ve come a long way.” Carter, a graduate of Mays High School, is married to Tanetta Carter. The lovely couple have a ten-year-old daughter and a seven-year-old son. Serving the community is extremely important to the Carters. They work closely with the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department (Welcome All, Burdette, Sandtown, Cliftondale, and Creel Parks). They provide the youth of South Fulton the opportunity to experience their Athletic Performing Arts training program which gives students opportunities to receive scholarships in traditional and alternative sports. “We teach golf, twirling, and baton. Well, I don’t twirl, but my wife does,” he laughs. “We just try to provide alternative opportunities to kids who may not have them.” Carter draws on his source from God for motivation and strength. “I just look at each day as an oppor- ARTICLE TENISHA BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY POWELL tunity for me to be better than yesterday.”

CONTINUED >

June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 23 MEN OF SOUTH FULTON (CONTINUED)

ROHIT THOMAS SHARMA Rohit Sharma CALLOWAY Dr. Rohit Sharma is dedicated to the Southwest community. The Optometrist owns Southern Eye Specialists, PC on Campbellton Road. The practice has been serving the South Fulton community for almost 60 years. Dr. Sharma purchased the facility in 2008. “I’ve always worked If you are looking for someone dedicated to the South in African-American neighborhoods,” says the native Kenyan. Although Fulton community, look no further. Thomas Calloway born in Africa, Dr. Sharma is of Indian descent. “The black community was born in East Point and now serves as an East Point is underserved. It is our responsibility as leaders and educators and as City Councilman. Calloway started his civic career as a physicians that we serve areas that need our education.” neighborhood representative five years ago. “I was never Dr. Sharma migrated to the United States in 1985 when the U.S. offered involved in politics,” he laughs. “I had success rebuilding a lottery for a green card and his family was selected. His parents settled our neighborhood, so when a seat opened on city council, their family in San Diego. He received his bachelor’s degree from Berkley I ran.” Calloway campaigned against four candidates and and went on to attend the New England College of Optometry. It wasn’t won with 52% of the vote in November. until 2004 that Dr. Sharma moved to Atlanta. “My brother is an eye surgeon Calloway is extremely excited about the work ahead in Atlanta. We went to the same schools. Where he went, I went. So he of him for the next four years. “We are coming along called me to come down. He said the people are wonderful in Atlanta and in East Point. We are re-developing our downtown and you can’t beat the weather, so I said OK.” making it walkable and bike-able. I want East Point to Since the move, Dr. Sharma has been fully engaged with treating the be the first choice destination for people to live” says underserved African American community. “One in 10 African Americans the 38-year-old. Calloway is particularly passionate are impacted by glaucoma,” says the 42-year-old. Many people don’t know about the East Point Farmers Market which occurs they have it, it’s a silent killer of the eye. The elderly are most effected and every Wednesday 4pm– 7pm. they don’t have accessibility for treatment.” Dr. Sharma believe that the Calloway divides his time as the CEO of Atlanta Custom older generation needs better representation. “My patients are like my Tile and Construction. He started the construction com- mom and dad, and I treat them all that way. I always gain the most satis- pany seven years ago after spending years as an equity faction when I am making an impact on people’s lives.” trader. Calloway studied chemical engineering at Georgia Dr. Sharma is married to Seema Sharma. The couple has two daugh- Tech, but his first love is in the financial world. He met his ters, six and seven. He makes the long commute each day from his true love, Kim, 12 years ago and they’ve been married six Marietta home to his South Fulton office. “This is a great neighborhood. years. Calloway enjoys the outdoors. He has hiked over But the community and the government has to rise to the occasion 700 miles in the last three years including parts of the and recognize the importance of southwest. I go to the senior citizen Grand Canyon, numerous trails in north Georgia, and all communities in Riverdale, East Point, and College Park stressing the of the Appalachian Trail. importance of taking care of their health. I often ask myself, if I weren’t here, where would they go? And I don’t have an answer.” CONTINUED >

24 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 Dr. Raushannah Ask “Dr. RJ” Johnson-Verwayne

Dear Dr. RJ, Father’s Day is fast approaching and I am not particularly close to my father but I feel like I want to set an example to my children by honoring him. The dilemma is that I’m nervous about his response. He’s never really been there for me and I don’t want to set myself up for more disappointment. What should I do? - Dreading Dads’ Day Dear Dreading Dads’ Day, I’m certain you’re not alone with this dilemma. Many adults struggle with how to deal with past hurts especially once they have children of their own. Fathers are essential; however, the decision to reach out to him is both a personal and spiritual decision. If you decide to contact your father, be sure to let go of any childhood COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL expectations. Let it be for your own healing and growth. Water Heaters • Sewer and Water Lines When you eliminate expectations it reduces the anxi- Video Line Inspection • Gas Lines • Toilets ety and gives you back the power you lost in your early Faucets and Fixtures • Renovations years. Forgiveness is freedom. ... and more! Sincerely, Dr. RJ FREE EXPANSION TANK WITH NEW WATER HEATER INSTALLATION! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR AN ADDITIONAL $10 OFF! For more information, visit AskDrRJ.com and listen to the Ask Dr RJ Radio Show on 770.460.6619 Tuesday nights at 8pm. Listen via TuneIn Radio or at . WWW.THEFLUSHBRIGADE.NET www.AskDrRJ.com/radio

June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 25 MEN OF SOUTH FULTON (CONTINUED)

JOSH LEE KAMAR

Josh Lee is passionate about teaching. The Decatur native is ZACHERY the Digital Station Manager for Fulton County Schools Television. He oversees video production throughout the entire district. But his excitement lies in teaching students about media, media production Kamar Zachery and film. “My background is in videography. I worked at CNBC and Kamar Zachery is the businessman of South Fulton. CNN. Then I moved to Washington, DC to start my own video pro- When he is not crisscrossing the country he’s making duction company but my passion really is in teaching,” he admits. moves to secure his next big business adventure. Born When Lee returned to Atlanta he was offered another job at CNN. in Newnan, Georgia, Zachery is a private distributor for Coincidently, at the same time, he was also offered a teaching job at “Thrive”, a company that promotes health and wellness Northview High School. He accepted the teaching position and found supplements. “I wanted to help people. Most people no his calling. “After my first summer, my students entered the Atlanta matter how healthy they eat aren’t getting the proper 48-hour film festival,” he recalls. “I watched the students put everything nutrition because our food is just not what it used to be.” into practice, everything they had learned in my class. As I was sitting The Columbus State University graduate majored in back and watching them, that was an ‘a-ha’ moment for me.” In 2014- marketing and has an affinity towards the business indus- 2015, Lee won Teacher of the Year at his school. try. “I’m a serial entrepreneur. I’ve owned a lot of different Although Lee no longer works in the classroom everyday, his role as businesses. I had a daycare, a real estate investment com- station manager for Fulton County School keeps him in close contact pany and none of them had anything in common. I just with students. Lee created an internship program that provides profes- wanted to always control my own destiny and not work for sional experience and exposure to students in South Fulton interested in anybody,” says the 34-year-old. pursuing a career in video/film. This unique program is a paid internship, “Formal education will make you a living, self educa- and students can earn high school credit. “I look for students with passion tion will make you a fortune.” Zachery admits to not being for the subject. I like kids who are motivated to learn and want to grow. an “A” or “B” student but it was his gift with people that Lee currently has 13 students in the program. The students represent a helped him succeed. “I did enough just to get by but I was variety of schools. “I like it because it provides opportunity. The students at always good with people. So when it came time for me to Westlake get to work with students in Alpharetta, and vice versa. It gives get jobs it wasn’t hard because I had good relationships.” them all different perspectives that help them learn and grow from stu- Zachery has lived in South Fulton for the past ten years. dents with different backgrounds,” says the 30-year-old. He is active with his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Incorporated. Lee would like to expand this program. He is currently working to He enjoys mentoring young students and teaching them partner with 404 Studios to provide internships for students in film. about entrepreneurship. “Entrepreneurs built this country. “It’s all about the students,” says the Georgia State Graduate. The We create opportunity for other people and that’s what I impact you can have on a student just by simply showing them that want to do.” you are interested is just awesome.”

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 27 RICO & ORLANDO

Orlando McGhee Orlando McGhee and was styled by Rico Wade: Brotherhood, Sammye-Ruth Scott Loyalty, Making History and Signing Future

ARTICLE ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY POWELL

Orlando McGhee

Rico Wade

his is a story that begins two decades ago. It’s a story of friendship and camaraderie. It’s a story of brotherhood. It’s a story of loyalty. I met these guys on the heels of the success ofT “The Art of Organized Noize,” a documentary produced by McGhee that recently made its Netflix debut. But the mood was somber. Both Rico Wade and Orlando McGhee were grieving the loss of music industry legend Prince, having barely recovered from the blow that was losing hip hop great Phife of A Tribe Called Quest just a few weeks earlier. Orlando reminisces, "I told my daughter that I saw Purple Rain for the first time at the Rialto." The photographer takes a moment to lighten the mood and the stories start to swirl around the studio. Rico Wade is an executive producer and was one of the founders of Organized Noize in the beginning of Atlanta’s Golden Age. To set this scene, remember that twenty-two years ago, Outkast released Southernplayalistic, the soundtrack for the youth of many of us who were raised in the South and others who headed to Atlanta and southern states to attend CONTINUED >

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 29 RICO & ORLANDO (CONTINUED)

I caught the eye of Tom Wiley at Warner Brothers and it took me six months to leave BME because of my loyalty.” While he was there at Warner Brothers, he worked for seven years with some great artists, including Mike Jones, E-40, Taleb Kweli, TDE with Jay Rock and Kendrick Lamar. “Rico probably doesn’t remember this... We have a friendship along with a business relationship. Jason Brown and myself got together to do some promotion of the history of Organized Noize. Rico was writing a book and we had the idea to make a movie but there’s a lot of money involved there. So that’s how the documentary came about. We said that when we do it, it has to be completely honest. It brought a bond back amongst the guys: Sleepy Brown, Goodie Mob and Outkast. These guys were legends out of Southwest Atlanta and East Point, out of Tri-Cities High School.” Wade goes on to say, “Orlando was one of the reason’s that my cousin Future got signed. He was on the inside of the record industry and I remember him calling me and saying ‘Congratulations! I heard your cousin just got signed.’ When I called, Future said he hadn’t signed with anyone but rather just took some meetings. When I got back to Orlando, he had a list of people who wanted to set up some meetings

Though they are good friends, Orlando and Rico don't agree on everything musically. Orlando contends that Lionel Richie is the best songwriter of all time but Rico says it's Stevie Wonder, hands down.

Top Five Songs-Orlando Top Five Artists of All Time - Rico 1. Zoom-Lionel Richie 1. Stevie Wonder college in the Centennial Olympic age. Cruising down Peachtree to 2. Hello-Lionel Richie 2. The Beatles attend the Black College Spring break was the norm. 3. Let Me Love You-Mario 3. Sly Stone Orlando McGhee was a child who grew up in Carver Homes. He 4. Waterfalls-TLC 4. Prince bounced between Southwest Atlanta and Southeast Atlanta, the oldest of 5. Dear Mama-Tupac 5. James Brown three boys. He is a graduate of Brown High in the West End of Atlanta. He attended Savannah State and then Hampton University before landing a gig in the as Special Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer for the with Future.” And the rest, as they say is history. Wade stated that City under Mayor Bill Campbell. In the meantime, he also worked as an timelines are very important and as he transitions more to the executive intern in the music industry and met Wade and the Dungeon Family. He or “suited” side of the business, this helped him stay connected to the did street team work and promos for Organized Noize. streets and Future, who is one of the hottest artists out right now. When Rico Wade first started out it was thought that in order McGhee is everything there is to love about South Fulton. A Cascade to earn the respect of the record label, you had to already have your area resident, he spends his weekends coaching T-ball in Ben Hill. He office together. So that’s what they did at Organized Noize. Nesha strives to give his children a balance that he never really had, the best of Kemp asked Wade if he knew Orlando, one of the hardest workers. what Atlanta has to offer while staying rooted in the community that made “Because she said that, I’ve always felt a certain loyalty from him.” him a successful executive in the music industry. He drives his luxury “Nesha Kemp sent me on an errand to the studio at the house,” says vehicle to the barbershop in our neighborhood and the kids wonder if he’s McGhee. It was being around Kemp and learning from Dee Dee a rapper or an athlete. But rather as a business man, he is proud to give Murray Hindler, who showed him the entire game and deal points, and children another type of role model. “Southwest Atlanta is one of the how a budget works, that made all the difference. “I don’t know why she most affluent areas in the country for African Americans and all the stars did it.” Perhaps she could see the potential in McGhee that he could not lived here including Billy ‘White Shoes’ Johnson, Dominique Wilkins, yet see himself. He continued to work for Mayor Campbell through the Evander Holyfield, and Hank Aaron,who lived right across the street from end of his term and eventually started work on the Attic Crew indepen- Rico Wade’s house. It’s so important to me to live in the community and dent project, working with some guys from Southwest Atlanta when provide the visual role model for kids just like me that are growing up with- Lil’ Scrappy and Trillville were discovered in the audience at one of out much.” It's the friendship between these guys that has lasted over the the concerts. Orlando managed Lil’ Jon and did product management decades and provides the ongoing bond that effects our community in a and managed DJ Drama, DJ Cannon and the Aphilliates. “Eventually positive way that even changes the current musical landscape for the better.

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 31 Local Limelight

it is happening. These dynamics are taking place in the life cycle of every living thing that’s around us. Some of the easiest to recognize and appreciate are the aging processes of people and animals or the growth of trees and plants. Some that are not so evident and easy to recognize are intangible things like the ideas that we create. The ideas that would eventually become products, businesses, brands, or even movements. As I look forward to launching my 10 Year Anniversary cigar this summer, I look back at the last ten years and wonder where did it go? How has time flown by so fast? More importantly, I think about how I’ve learned and grown over the years. While working through the normal challenges of trying to grow a brand it’s easy to overlook the small successes sometimes, but the small ones are just as important as the big ones. They lay the groundwork for the big wins so I’ve learned to appreciate the little things. As I think about the local in-store promo- tional events I’ve done over the years here in Atlanta with shops such as Cigaros, WiseAsh, Highland, Cutters, etc. I never dreamed that I would’ve been the first cigar brand owner to do in-store promo events in Southeast Asia. I’ve truly been blessed to have my line of cigars sold throughout the U.S., as well as in countries such as Russia, Australia, and others. hen the good people at Through it all Atlanta has been my back- South Fulton Lifestyle drop. As one of the largest premium cigar mar- MagazineW asked me to be a part kets in the country, there are a lot of Brothers of this year’s Men’s issue I was & Sisters of the Leaf here that are active and honored, with this year marking engaged and stay in tune with the market. I my 10th year in the premium definitely appreciate the support that they cigar industry. It’s really been a show my brand here but just as importantly I good ride for me and being based appreciate just being one of the locals that get in Atlanta has made the ride to enjoy this great cigar city as I look forward that much more enjoyable. I’ve to my next 10 years in the industry. enjoyed watching the growth of Atlanta’s local cigar culture and Sean Williams is the 45 year old owner of El having such a great microcosm Primer Mundo cigar brand. He’s married with 3 kids and is active in youth team sports and ef- SEAN WILLIAMS CREATES CIGARS has really helped me learn and forts to feed the homeless. He loves to do busi- SOLD AROUND THE WORLD AND grow over the last decade. ness in South Fulton, basing his office near Ft. RIGHT HERE IN SOUTH FULTON I’ve always believed that if something is not growing or learning McPherson in the past and one of the largest ARTICLE SEAN WILLIAMS in some way then it’s dying. The retailers that carries his brand is in the area. “I re- PHOTOGRAPHY BY PITTER PRODUCTIONS decline can be very slow and ally dig the convenience that Camp Creek offers almost imperceptible at times just and the coziness of Main Street College Park,” he as the growth and learning may says. In addition to knowing lots about cigars, he not be readily evident either, but is a huge history buff.

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Neighborhood Beds F/H Baths List Price Sold Price %Sold/List DOM*

Stonewall Manor 4 3/0 $299,900 $301,800 101% 3 1 Lexington Park 5 4/0 $305,858 $305,960 102% 32 Wyncreek Estates 5 3/0 $308,977 $310,000 100% 62 Walden Park 6 4/1 $309,900 $309,900 100% 3 The Park at Cascade 5 4/1 $310,000 $308,000 99% 8 Lakeside Preserve 5 5/1 $326,005 $326,005 100% 0 The Falls At Camp Creek 5 4/0 $326,083 $318,201 97% 26 The Falls At Camp Creek 5 4/0 $326,228 $322,202 99% 11 Wyncreek Estates 7 4/0 $329,995 $337,500 102% 90 Union Crossing 6 5/0 $334,900 $330,000 98% 11 Southwind 6 5/1 $337,800 $330,000 98% 11 Champions Park 4 3/1 $339,000 $330,000 97% 18 Niskey Lake 3 3/0 $350,000 $335,000 96% 30 Lakeside Preserve 5 4/0 $352,227 $352,227 100% 0 Lakeside Preserve 5 4/0 $354,900 $354,900 101% 113 Champions Park 3 4/1 $359,900 $375,000 104% 6 Ashwood Estates 5 4/1 $359,900 $365,900 102% 7 Barrington 5 4/0 $369,975 $355,950 96% 2 Syreeta Cove 5 4/1 $370,000 $360,000 97% 116 Lakeside Preserve 4 4/0 $386,112 $386,113 100% 0 Le Jardin 5 4/1 $389,900 $385,000 99% 14 Regency Park 4 4/1 $399,650 $390,000 97% 21 Regency Park 5 5/0 $410,000 $410,000 100% 15 Grandview Estates 5 4/1 $450,000 $425,000 94% 9 The Regency 6 5/1 $495,000 $485,000 98% 7

Information compiled from First Multiple Listing Service from dates of 10/1/2015 through 3/1/2016. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market

June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 35 Giving Back

I Dare-U Academy Founder and CEO Glenn Ford, Jr. and Julio Jones Answers Some of SFL's Questions on Food, Fashion and Paying it Forward

SOUTH FULTON IS HOME TO THE NUMBER ONE HIGH SCHOOL TRAINING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES

ARTICLE ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY PITTER PRODUCTIONS AND PROVIDED

lenn Ford, Jr. is the Chairman and CEO of i-DareU Academy, GInc. He has lived in the Cascade area of South Fulton with his wife and kids for the past 15 i-DareU Academy, Inc. trains scholar athletes to be years. Ford loves living in successful in sports and teaches them fundamentals this part of town. “You have that are needed to flourish in school and become thriv- the best of everything! Food, ing young adults. Since their inception in 2006, they parks, entertainment, and it’s have provided young men with position-specific train- close to downtown and the ing, academic counseling, character building principles airport.” In addition to a passion and male-to-male mentoring. i-DareU parents seek for mentoring and football, he has assistance from the program because they are searching for a passion for cars and restores them in a solution for their young men. They know that their sons have his spare time. His passion for i-DareU extraordinary talent but they also recognize the challenges teens Academy is evident when he talks about the face growing up in today’s environment. It is no secret that there are program, “i-DareU Academy has an emphasis on help- countless stories of young men with outstanding talents who never make ing kids receive a free education to make the most of their God- it out of high school due to peer pressure, high drop out rates and gang given abilities.” The pro- violence. i-DareU provides a disciplined safe haven to not only harness gram serves young athletes these talents but also assists them with becoming academically and men- from across South Fulton tally focused and prepared for college and the recruitment process. The and has been awarded programs provides ACT/SAT preparation in addition to athletic training. as the #1 High School -From the Program Handbook. For more visit, I-DareU.net. Training Group in USA by ESPN and the Rivals Camp Series. Ford lives by these words, “I believe that every successful person has these qualities: hardwork- ing, sacrificing daily, and dedicated to their craft.”

36 South Fulton Lifestyle | June 2016 A Conversation with Atlanta Falcon Julio Jones

1. You had a record breaking receiving season last year. It was exhil- 3. If your fans follow you on Instagram @juliojones_xi, they arating to watch as a Falcons fan. Are you excited for the upcoming know that you are on the cutting edge in your wardrobe. Any season? Has the team adjusted to some of the new things Coach fashion tips for this our Men’s Issue? I think people get Quinn has in store? Yes, I’m excited. I can’t wait to play our first caught up in the brand of clothing but it’s not about the home game. I love our fans. name. It’s about the person that’s wearing them. As long as you’re confident in yourself, you will find the right look 2. Your reputation for doing great work in the community proceeds you. for you. Wear the clothes. Don’t let them wear you. I remember you being very kind to the kids with our group of TAPS military surviving spouses and children at Training Camp last year. Tell our readers 4. One last question. Atlanta football fans and non football a little about your community service, particularly the work that you do fans love you for your work in the community. What do you love with the youth in our South Fulton community. Particularly with I-DareU, about Atlanta? What are some of your favorite things about I like giving the kids the opportunity to have experiences that I didn’t Atlanta? (food, things to do, etc.) I love the city and it’s people. have as a youth. Glenn and the unbelievable coaching staff at I-DareU Atlanta has great energy and a variety of things to do. My have put over 120 athletes in college, with over $10 million dollars in food choices vary based on me mood so I can’t pinpoint one scholarships, in the 6 years that I have been supporting the program. place in particular. I love eating my mom’s cooking because We just want the kids to go to school and have a chance to be great at she’s my queen! life, so me giving back through I-DareU means a lot.

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 37 Lifestyle Calendar June EVERY WEDNESDAY 4-7PM EAST POINT FARMERS MARKET OLD FIRE STATION #1 As an initiative of the East Point Main Street Association and the city of East Point, the mission is to create a unique experience in the Downtown District for all who shop here, where they will consciously offer fresh food options that are as healthy for the people who eat them as for the ground in which they are grown. EVERY SATURDAY 9AM-12PM SERENBE FARMERS & ARTISTS MARKET SERENBE Farmer's Market every Saturday, 9am–noon, May–October at Seren- be Lane & Serenbe Way, including farm fresh vegetables and fruits and lots of handmade products. SerenbeFarms.com/Market JUNE 11 HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL FAYETTEVILLE See hot air balloons up close, watch them glow, and take a tethered ride at Balloons Over Fayette, which also has a kids’ zone, food, and crafts at McCurry Park in Fayette. FayetteCountyGa.gov JUNE 17 MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: NORM OF THE NORTH HAPEVILLE FOOTBALL FIELD Concessions, Bounce House, Games and Music begin at 7:30PM. Free admission. Movie starts at dusk. Rain Location: Hoyt Smith Center Gymnasium. For more info see Hapeville.org. JUNE 19 FATHER DAY JAZZ BRUNCH PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES FOR YOUR OFFICE OR HOME FAIRBURN KING'S DONUTS Join King's Donuts for a Jazz Brunch to celebrate dad! Please see • Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Available TheKingsDonuts.com for more details and ticket prices. % • Daily, Weekly, Bi-Weekly 20 OFF and Monthly Service YOUR INITIAL CLEANING SERVICE * JUNE 23 • Custom Cleaning Plans when you mention CAMP CREEK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION MEETING • One-Time Deep Cleaning South Fulton Lifestyle *With a regularly scheduled CAMP CREEK HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES • Bonded and Insured daily, weekly, bi-weekly or • Satisfaction Guaranteed monthly cleaning. Camp Creek Business Association meeting, Guest Speaker - Dyan Matthews, President, South Fulton Chamber of Commerce CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE OR SERVICE! Seminar - “Private Banking: Expectations and Pitfalls” Rich Camp- 470-234-5194 bell. Free and Open to the Public at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites www.thebestgreenclean.com Atlanta Airport West - Camp Creek, Princeton Lakes Room

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 39 business directory

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June 2016 | South Fulton Lifestyle 41 Parting Thoughts

A DAD - HIS DUDE

WORDS BRIAN EGESTON

y wife and I were sitting in a psychiatrist’s office. He’d just spent an hour with my six-year old son. We were there to Mhear the news that we already knew. Our son has some expressive language issues, cognitive learning challenges, fine motor and gross discovered—he’s a genius. He breezes through all of the exercises motor skill delays, dyslexia and Attention Deficit Hyperactive with numbers, patterns, symbols, adding subtracting and multi- Disorder(ADHD). As time progressed, I’ve slowly accepted that— plication. But there’s a bridge that connects his challenges to his he’s perfect for me. strengths—his attention span. I know this because as I work with I was a rambunctious and bright kid with a knack for storytelling, and notice the amount of time he focuses on one particular item, it’s comedy and sports. I was not however, adept at math and science. So reminiscent of my own inability to focus. for some strange reason, I chose to study Mechanical Engineering It prompted me to revisit my own learning challenges where I in college. It was a blood bath of low GPAs. A war of attrition where remembered sitting in Physics class taking notes and two minutes later, my professors realized I wasn’t going away, so they waved white flags I was writing a poem. I recalled the test scores and teacher conferences and passed me along when I eventually began retaining some theory when reading comprehension were chronic low scores. As I watched spread across countless hours of lectures. Many of my shortcomings my son, helped him and learned more about his challenges, it occurred were due to the fact that I was always auditioning and landing lead to me that we share some of the same struggles. His, diagnosed early. roles in plays such as Troy Maxon in Fences where I would learn Mine, denied, delayed then discovered only recently. And I have my pages and pages of monologue overnight. But could not commit a little dude to thank for that. My brilliant, funny and perfect son. thermodynamics equation to memory with my dad holding a gun to Homework and learning for us is a lot different these days. It’s a my head reminding me how much tuition I was blowing. lesson in peace talks and negotiations with my son working inde- Fast forward to now as I sit at the homework table with my son pendently then asking for help as he needs it. There’s no yelling as he and I slosh through a blood bath of reading comprehension, or expectation of perfection for every exercise, every sentence every grammar and writing. It’s a war of attrition that he usually wins letter. Instead there’s an understanding that my son needs a dad because my frustration mounts when he can’t remember a word to understand and appreciate his mind, the way he’s taught me to we just read thirty seconds ago. Then we turn to math where I’ve understand my mind.

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