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LIFESTYLE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER
Arthur McCoy | arthur.mccoy@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR
Take Time to be Thankful Everyday!
Sue G. Collins | scollins@lifestylepubs.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Whitney Maddux
WHAT COMES TO YOUR MIND WHEN YOU HEAR THE WORD THANKFUL?
AD DESIGNER
No matter where you are in life, we all have so much to be thankful for. You may not
Whitney Lockhart
be where you want to be but look how far you've come! Some of you have com-
L AYO UT DESIGNER
pleted college, started a family, a business, or maybe even gone through a divorce. In everything, count your blessings and find something positive in all situations to be thankful for. No one imagined a year like this but if you're reading this, take a deep breath and be thankful. I am thankful for so many things that I could fill up all 36 pages of this magazine. I appreciate the tens of thousands of readers that support our publication along with the businesses that partner with us financially. We ask that you visit our Facebook Page, (@SmyrnaViningsLifestyle), and post what you are thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday season. Please continue to pray for our
Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rhiannon Johnson, Karla Mastracchio, Minnie Payne, Nicolette Martin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aharon Hill Photo, Jennifer Fennelly, Brent Rivers Photography, Alana Wickman
frontline workers, parents, children, our government and America as a whole. If you see a medical professional, a police officer, a soldier, or a teacher, give them a word of encouragement; it can go a long way. Let this holiday season be a season of giving, and do whatever you can to bring a smile to someone else, trust me it will return to you in a great way. I challenge you to spread love, joy, and peace. Stay safe and take your health seriously. Wear your mask, continue to social distance, get good sleep, and take a walk through the neighborhood. Make being thankful a part of your everyday lifestyle and it will open new opportunities for you. A special shout
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
out this Thanksgiving to all of the wonderful moms in the community. Thank you
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
very much for what you do. Happy Thanksgiving to all! May God bless your families,
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
our community, the great state of Georgia and The United States of America.
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Arthur McCoy, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
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 A monochromatic
TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
table is welcoming and soothing. Toss in pine cones, dried bittersweet or acorns from your yard and give thanks for all your blessings. We’re thankful for you! 4
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
Proverbs 3:5-6 Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Smyrna Vinings area’s 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 Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020
FEATURES 10 Porchlight Kitchen Serves Up Southern Latin Flair
Chef Andre talks food, family and what’s in a name.
18 Kicking For Kids Martial arts mentoring program creates community through self-confidence.
22 Sisters Take Strides for Breast Cancer Smyrna family raises thousands, out of love.
22
30 I Define Me Lessons we can learn from a young author.
30
18 10
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
10
Culinary Creations
14
Healthy Lifestyle
18
Inspired By
22 Our Town 27 Giving Back 30 Page Turners 33 Realty Report 34 Local’s Choice
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CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
7
AROUND TOWN
ART FROM AND FOR THE WORLD'S KIDS An Atlanta-based charity, Art For Art, has teamed with an international charity to bring Atlantans a unique opportunity this fall: purchase your favorite works of art produced by talented student artists from underserved communities in Africa and 100% of the proceeds will directly support the students’ visual arts classes. The Art Exhibition continues online through November 25. On display is artwork from Africa, as well as pieces created by children in the U.S. Meet the student artists who created them, through short bios that are included with each piece. ArtForArt.world/current-exhibit.
ALOFT OPEN
SMYRNA VILLAGE 10K
Aloft Atlanta at The Battery Atlanta – a preferred
Don’t miss this flat and fast 10K Peachtree Road
hotel of the Atlanta Braves opened along Battery
Race qualifier on November 14. The Metro Area
Avenue. Loft-inspired guestrooms and suites have
Running Club (MARC) is host to the Smyrna Village
oversized TVs, rainforest showers and free high-
10K Road Race. It is a fun and exciting race promot-
speed internet. Amenities include a fitness center and
ing health and wellness in the beautiful community
the Re:fuel café stocked with fresh, fast and flavorful
of Smyrna for people of all ages and paces. The
breakfast meals and 24/7 grab-and-go options rang-
race starts and finishes at the Smyrna Community
ing from snacks to beverages. Its pet-friendly Animals
Center. The Center will be open so participants can
R Fun (Arf®) program offers a special bed, bowl and
gather for coffee and have access to indoor bath-
treats for pets. The WXYZ Bar is offers craft cocktails
rooms. Facebook.com/SmyrnaVillage10K
and light bites. The Re:mix lounge welcomes local artists. TravelGuidance.Marriott.com.
SYMPHONY IS ON The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Music Director Robert Spano welcome Associate Conductor and Music Director of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) Jerry Hou,
AWESOME finisher medals for all those that complete the 10K!! The course is an out and back on Atlanta Rd. It turns south from Smyrna Village onto Atlanta Rd. and reverses course near the intersection of Atlanta Rd. and the East West Connector.
BOOK SMART
Second Violin Dae Hee Ahn, Second Violin
Check out (see what we did there?) the Annual
Robert Anemone, First Violin Kevin Chen, Trumpet
Fall Used Book Sale Saturday at the Smyrna
Anthony Limoncelli, Second Violin Rachel Ostler;
Library, November 7, 10 AM - 5 PM and Sunday,
and former Third Horn Jaclyn Rainey returns to
November 8, 1 PM – 4:45 PM. The Friends of
the ASO as Principal Horn. The Atlanta Symphony
Smyrna Library organize the benefit with adult
Orchestra has returned to the stage of Symphony
hardbacks, fiction, cookbooks, self-help, home &
Hall for its 2020/21 season. All fall concerts will
garden, children's books and more starting at 25
be performed without a live audience and will be
cents.The book sale will take place in the down-
available to view and enjoy on the ASO’s Virtual
stairs meeting room. Masks required. Cash, check
Stage as subscriber content. The programs will be
and charge accepted.
comprised of smaller orchestral ensembles and will feature Music Director Robert Spano, Principal Guest Conductor Donald Runnicles, selected
8
guest conductors and artists, and ASO members
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love
as soloists. Check out the drive-in shows featur-
to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/
ing the music of David Bowie and Led Zeppelin.
SmyrnaVinings using the Get In Touch link and let
AtlantaSymphony.org
us know what you think.
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
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9
CULINARY CREATIONS
porch l i ght lat i n k itchen ser ves up sout her n lat i n f la i r CHEF ANDRE TALKS FOOD, FAMILY AND WHAT’S IN A NAME
ARTICLE KARLA MASTRACCHIO PHOTOGRAPHY ALANA WICKHAM
10
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
DO YOU HAVE A
TAX PROBLEM? Former IRS Chief Counsel Attorney Cal Bomar PORCH LIGHT LATIN KITCHEN, AN INTIMATE SMYRNA RESTAURANT SPECIALIZING IN SOUTHERN LATIN CUISINE, HAS BEEN MAKING MAJOR WAVES IN THE ATLANTA FOOD SCENE. Andre Gomez, Porch Light’s Executive Chef, has battled Bobby Flay on the Food Network, showcased his mastery of Latin spices on The Cooking Channel’s “Man Fire Food” and served up some latin flare on The Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise”. For Chef Andre, being on TV has been great for business, but reaching “celebrity chef” status hasn’t changed him one bit. “Being a celebrity chef just means people know you. We work where we live so my neighbors become customers and friends,” says the Smyrna-based chef and restaurateur. “At the end of the day, I’m just a regular guy. Being appreciated by the community and your friends is great.” For Chef Andre, it all starts with relationships and putting people first. “Food gives me the opportunity to meet people and build a lot of relationships and get to know people for who they are and what they do,” he says. “And everyone wants to eat! That’s who we are.”
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When asked what he is thankful for, Chef Andre keeps it simple. “I’m thankful for my family, for their support in the good and the bad,” he adds. “And my staff. You can’t forget where you’re at. And I’m thankful for all our guests, particularly this year. The guests come through our doors and keep the lights on.” Relationships and a strong appreciation
CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION ABOUT YOUR CASE:
for his heritage are at the heart of Chef Andre’s charity work. Chef Andre is passionate about food and about his home, Puerto Rico. That love for his heritage and culture comes through in the kitchen and in his volunteer efforts. He is actively involved with two nonprofits. The Atlanta-based nonprofit, The Giving Kitchen, provides financial
404-841-6561 BOMARLAWFIRM.COM
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
11
CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)
assistance to food service workers in need. Ser Familia
light had faded and I had to fix it. I had to go to the store
allows him to combine his love of food and his heritage.
but I forgot the lightbulb. And there it was. Light and fire!
Ser Familia is an organization dedicated to strengthening
They help us cook!”
Latino families through programs that empower them to
Porch Light is not just a southern kitchen. It’s a south-
thrive and enjoy a healthy family environment. With the
ern Latin kitchen and, as it turns out, porch lights hold a
pandemic impacting so many people, assistance from the
special place in Chef Andre’s family. “When I called my
local community is more needed than ever.
mom she lost her mind,” he said. “She saved my grand-
Porch Light is a special place that centers community.
mother’s porch lights and all three are hanging in my
Though small enough to seat a handful of tables, the cus-
kitchen now. Making everyone feel at home and bring
tomer experience comes first. Everything inside means
together family added more meaning. We wouldn’t be
something special, including the name. “The name had
here without it.”
to mean something,” he says.”I had close to 50 different
Porch Light’s namesake is as layered as the flavor
names and at the end of the day, we wanted it to feel
combinations that are created in its kitchen. His favorite
casual but still have elements of fine dining. We want you
dish: the beer can chicken with a rice and beans that he
to feel at home.”
described as simple, hearty and flavorful. Chef also rec-
When thinking about the exact moment he knew Porch
ommends the smoked duck fried rice, but was careful
Light was the name that best described his creative vision:
to add that given the menu, choosing a favorite can be
“I can walk to work. I always sit on the porch and design
difficult. “They’re all good. It’s like having children. You
recipes and always invite friends over. One day the porch
can’t pick a favorite!”
12
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
Call between 1 and 4 p.m., Wednesday - Saturday to place your order with Porch Light Latin Kitchen for orders to be picked up between 5 - 7 p.m. 678.309.9858 PorchLightLatinKitchen.com 300 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna
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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
KEEP MOVING ARTICLE SMYRNA VININGS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KELLIE SHIRLEY
IF YOU’RE LIKE US, YOU MAY NOT BE QUITE READY TO GO BACK INSIDE THE GYM. But, the bod is screaming for stretches, strength and solutions. We checked in with Smyrna fitness guru, Kellie Shirley and asked her for three moves we could do in our home or backyard. Thanks Kellie! We’ll be thinking of you while we dip into a second serving of Thanksgiving stuffing. Kellie Shirley was born and raised Georgia Peach. She and her husband have been living in Smyrna for the past few years and recently got married and closed on their first house in the area! “We are excited to start our lives here and plan to be an active part of the community as much as we can. Keep an eye out for Inspired ATL (@inspired_atl) events in the area if you’re seeking out any community,” says Kellie. Follow her at HealthAndKellness.com
14
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
“WE ARE EXCITED TO START OUR LIVES HERE AND PLAN TO BE AN ACTIVE PART OF THE COMMUNITY AS MUCH AS WE CAN.”
01.
02.
BODYWEIGHT SQUATS
ICE SKATERS (CARDIO)
(STRENGTH)
Drive weight through heels to
03.
HALF V-UPS (FLEXIBILITY/CORE)
Keep the chest tall with shoulders
jump from side to side on one foot,
Lay flat on back and use upper
back. Sit back in your heels and
increasing heart rate. Jump from
body momentum to meet knees at
drop weight until your knees are at
either side for a challenge or tap foot
the top. Engage core and breathe.
90 degrees. Push through heels to
for a modification.
Reset at bottom and repeat.
reset at top.
CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
15
Keep an
A+ Smile
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TOP 10 THINGS TO KNOW FOR A HEALTHY SMILE 10. KEEP IT SIMPLE. Expensive dental products may help, but proper hygiene techniques and habits are paramount!
9. FOOD CHOICES ARE CRITICAL. Hard or sticky sugary foods are the most common contributors to tooth decay.
8. BIOLOGY MATTERS. Just like any other part of the human body, some of us are genetically more prone to issues like cavities and gum disease.
7. SECRET’S OUT! Plaque is really a mixture of germs, old sugary foods and acidic germ waste. Yep, germ poo is destroying teeth every day.
6. FLOSS FIRST (AND NOT THE DANCE!). Nothing can adequately replace actually getting the string between our teeth. If we floss first, we have a better chance to be more effective in our routine.
5. CONSISTENCY IS KEY. Invest 2 minutes every morning and 2 minutes before bed.
4. PREVENTION IS LESS EXPENSIVE. Like most things in life, allowing for problems to persist makes it harder to restore and repair. It’s true for home repair, relationships, education and….TEETH!
3. ACCESS AND ANGLES. When brushing your teeth or your children’s teeth, we must create better access by moving our lips and cheeks out of way. Then gently brush with the bristles angled along the gum line. This adjustment in technique can be a real smile saver.
2. YES, PROFESSIONAL DENTAL VISITS ARE NECESSARY. Waiting until something hurts usually ends up being a bigger problem. If you don’t trust your dental team, it’s ok to get second opinions.
1. IT’S COMPLICATED. Fluoride itself is not harmful but if used incorrectly, it could possibly relate to health problems. When used properly, in can be a great benefit for your teeth. Please supervise brushing to ensure correct spitting and amount of toothpaste through elementary grade years.
BONUS: WHITER IS NOT BETTER. Kids are increasingly dissatisfied with their natural teeth color and are asking for bleaching products. This is related to trends in adult dentistry and the manufactured images they see on mass media. Teeth color has joined weight, height, and hair in a long list of body image insecurities.
INSPIRED BY
KICKING FOR KIDS
MARTIAL ARTS MENTORING PROGRAM CREATES COMMUNITY THROUGH SELF-CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE RHIANNON JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT RIVERS PHOTOGRAPHY
SCOTT AND JENNIFER TASKER OF NORTH METRO
options. They still offer Zoom classes to those who
MARTIAL ARTS IN SMYRNA ARE FOCUSED ON
prefer that option but their in-person classes are once
CHANGING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN AND FAMI-
again in session, with Kicking For Kids following all of
LIES IN OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH THEIR NON-
the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 including: tempera-
PROFIT MENTORING PROGRAM KICKING FOR
ture checks, social distancing, masks, hand sanitizer,
KIDS, PROUDLY PROCLAIMING, “WE ARE BUILD-
and rigorous cleaning and disinfecting of the facility
ING STRONG ROOTS IN OUR COMMUNITY AND
throughout every day.
LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF IT.” Serving a wide spec-
All children are welcome to attend Kicking for Kids,
trum of students, this program focuses on improving
but kids who lack confidence, struggle to fit in team
self-confidence, decision-making, accountability, and
sporting activities, and those who need structure
communication through a virtual learning academy, an
and discipline especially benefit from this program’s
after-school program, and evening martial arts classes.
specialized environment. Students with special needs,
Kicking For Kids’ virtual learning academy offers an
including ADD, ADHD, autism spectrum, cystic fibro-
alternative to at-home schooling and the after-school
sis, cerebral palsy, sensory processing, and Down
mentoring program (NOT a curriculum-based martial
syndrome thrive through regular class integration
arts program) focuses on building confidence through
and training with all other students. At-risk students
mentoring and developing pro-social life skills through
who previously exhibited aggressive or disrespectful
team-building exercises. Kicking For Kids recently got
behavior tend to curb their negative behaviors and
creative with their program availability during the shut-
actually excel in leadership roles after becoming
down by offering their students video and Zoom class
enrolled in the program.
18
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
CONTINUED >
“GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE, THE KIDS ARE REALIZING THAT THEY DO HAVE A FUTURE AND THE CONFIDENCE THAT COMES WITH THAT REALIZATION FILTERS INTO ALL PARTS OF THEIR LIVES.”
CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
19
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
Nickajack Elementary School counselor, Nicole Pfleger Weber, praises the program. “We have seen a 100% decrease in the number of behavior referrals from the mentoring students participating in Kicking For Kids programming. In addition, the reading inventory scores of the mentoring students have increased by 40% from the beginning to the end of the school year.” The Kicking For Kids program also provides structure for students who simply need an opportunity to participate but face financial barriers, are homeless, or are living in shelters, extended stay hotels, or subsidized housing. This all-inclusive community program provides positive mentoring relationships for students in a safe and structured environment that fosters social, emotional, and physical growth as well as a safe haven where parents and kids can come together for social networking and support. The Taskers see positive results with the program, pointing out that “Given the opportunity to participate, the kids are realizing that they do have a future and the confidence that comes with that realization filters into all parts of their lives.” For more information about Kicking for Kids or to make a donation to this amazing local non-profit, visit KickingForKids.org, call 404.500.9701, or email info@KickingForKids.org
20
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
Scott and Jennifer Tasker and family
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21
OUR TOWN
S I S T E R S TA K E STRIDES FOR BREAST CANCER ARTICLE MINNIE PAYNE PHOTOGRAPHY AHARON HILL PHOTO
MOST PEOPLE WILL AGREE THAT MEA-
over four years in honor of their mother and
Pilates and communication with other
SURING A MOTHER’S LOVE IN MILES
grandmother and gratitude for their recovery.
breast cancer survivors, doctors help get
AND MONEY IS DIFFICULT. Breast cancer
Monies raised from the family’s event support
you back to yourself. It’s a community
survivor 47-year-old Stephanie Scalise’s
TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation,
where everyone with whom you interact
daughters, 20-year-old Samantha, 18-year-old
the non-profit that played a big part in turn-
is very sympathetic - it’s extremely proac-
Lauren, and 16-year-old Emilie, beg to differ.
ing Stephanie’s and her mother, 78-year-old
tive and therapeutic.
The people of Smyrna and surrounding areas
Susan Gruskin’s, lives around.
through the family-centered walk Strides
“Specifically, in my case, most beneficial
“The biggest thing about TurningPoint
was the hands-on therapy, working with my
for Survivors, founded by the girls, have
is
shares
lymphedema and cording. Lymphedema is
walked 10.8 miles and raised about $40,000
Stephanie. “Through nutrition, massage,
the blockage within the lymphatic system or
22
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
that
they
understand,”
fluid retention. Cording is the tightness that
of her doctors and started crying,” remarks
“I was asked to read it and had I known
happens when the lymphatic system doesn’t
Lauren. “I didn’t know who called but knew
that I would be asked to read to the entire
work properly. The cancer spread into my
that it was serious. Mom pulled off the road,
class, I would have chosen another subject,”
lymph nodes, causing me to have both che-
and tears flowed freely from both of us. I
says Lauren. “At dinner, I shared what had
motherapy and radiation,” shares Stephanie.
asked Mom who called, and she said,‘I have
happened and Emilie asked, ‘What if we do
stage 3 breast cancer.’”
a fund-raising walk?’ And here we are, about
Stephanie’s breast cancer story starts in the early afternoon on warm July 27, 2015,
Later, at the time of Stephanie’s surgery,
when she daughter Lauren were on their
as a part of an eighth grade English assign-
Stephanie says that other than registering
way to get Samantha “Sam” from softball
ment, Lauren wrote a narrative about her
the walk with the city and getting a permit,
practice. “Mom got a phone call from one
family’s tragedy.
the girls did all the work.
$40,000 later.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/SmyrnaVinings
23
OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)
“IT MAKES ME HAPPY TO SAY THAT MY MOM IS A BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR. IT HAS MADE ME REALIZE WHAT IT IS ABOUT AND WHAT MOM WENT THROUGH, I.E., OUR LITTLE BUBBLE TOGETHER. BEING ABLE TO GIVE BACK TO TURNINGPOINT MAKES US HAPPY AND THAT AMAZINGLY, WE HAVE OURMOM BACK.”
“The girls were ambitious and wanted the walk
what it is about and what Mom went through,
to be a success. The 2.7-mile walk, which starts
i.e., our little bubble together. Being able to give
at the girls’ very-supportive Galloway School,
back to TurningPoint makes us happy and that
winding around Chastain Park, started in fall
amazingly, we have ourmom back,” says Emilie
2016. The event is always held in February and
who is a junior at Galloway School.
the next walk is Feb. 6, 2021,” says Thomas Smith
Lauren is a freshman at Wofford College and
for TurningPoint. “At this point, it is unknown
shares, “When all this started, I could never have
whether or not it will be virtual. Fifteen-year-
imagined that today, our mom and grandma,
Smyrna residents, Stephanie and daughters
through the medical field and TurningPoint,
knocked on doors, talked to business owners,
are well. I’m just thankful that all these people
and received a warm reception from Smyrna and
helped. The people at TurningPoint tell us that
surrounding areas.” For a $250 donation, spon-
we have helped many people – more than we
sors get their names on event t-shirts – printed
ever dreamed possible.”
under the direction of the Scalise family.
Twenty-year-old-University of Tennessee-
From the beginning, Daniel Scalise also played
junior Sam shares, “I think the most humbling
a big part by keeping the family together, seeing
thing is that our mom and grandma have gotten
that the girls were at their designated places and
through this. We can be a role model to not just
making sure that everything was as normal as
sit back but take control by doing something
possible until things returned to normal. “Dad
about it. I have been to TurningPoint with mom
kind of works in the background,” says Emilie.
and seen firsthand how our efforts touch peo-
“He puts all the tables out at Strides for Survivors
ple’s lives through Strides for Survivors walk.”
walk and makes sure that all the tech is set up. He makes everything presentable.” “It makes me happy to say that my mom is a breast cancer survivor. It has made me realize
24
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
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Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
GIVING BACK
WALKING THE WALK
A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN
FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day. For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above). Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend. “I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was
ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN
then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600. By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller. CONTINUED >
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GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)
Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com! Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all. But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction. “Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.” “Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.” After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China. And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking. “We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the
It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the
godliest people, the most committed...people that I
States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.
admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my
This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis
own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-
and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.
rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”
What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through
“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.” 28
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
values and practices like devotion to scripture,
committing
to
churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.
“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.” Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast
In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a
between the American church and the spirituality and Godly
growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of
lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-
life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a
ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing
non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up
issues of individualism and pride.
through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.
“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s
“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called
perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you
Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze
would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-
you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic
ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?
things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was
The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels
just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”
like it’s getting worse.” “I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.” Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.
“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’” Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals. “She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”
“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches
“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,
it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All
fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to
I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that
certain things and God has something so much better for us. I
have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”
believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that
Much like separation from his megachurch setting,
is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you
preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth
realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would
of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the
bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”
belief that people are the church.
Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham
“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass
Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most
of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of
of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,
Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord
two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he
wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink
later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,
‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have
and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out
been scattered since the beginning of the church. People
his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor
were alone, people were in little groups and found each other
to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,
and enjoyed Christ together.”
planting churches.
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29
PAGE TURNERS
I Define Me LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM A YOUNG AUTHOR
ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY JENNIFER FENNELLY
SWIPING THROUGH OLD VIDEOS ON HER PHONE, ERICKA SMITH LANDED ON ONE THAT CAUSED HER TO PAUSE. It featured her son, Kyler speaking directly into the camera, eyes wide open addressing the world. “It was basically a PSA. He was saying how you can do anything you set your mind to and naming Dyslexics including Winnie the Pooh,” says the Smyrna mom. “He shared a story about a Dyslexic author who visited his school talking about reading. His confidence and joy were amazing.” Ericka asked Kyler if he wanted to turn his thoughts into a book and share it with the world. He was elated and his book journey began. Last year, during National Dyslexia Awareness month, Kyler Eric Smith, age nine, released his book, “I Define Me,” an autobiographical children’s book to empower students with learning differences and their parents by providing a candid peek into his life. The book (available on Amazon and wherever you buy your books locallly) offers a unique opportunity to walk in the shoes of a bright, articulate and multi-talented child who has been diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyspraxia. Rather than seeing these learning differences as obstacles. Kyler sees them as challenges that through hard work, tenacity and the right support system, can be overcome.
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Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
“ O n c e I s ta r t e d ta l k i n g w i t h p e o p l e o p e n ly, s e v e r a l mentioned their struggles or their children struggles, I wa n t I D e f i n e M e T r a n s c e n d i n g Learning Differences to help d e - s t i g m at i z e L D ’ s .”
CONTINUED >
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31
PAGE TURNERS (CONTINUED)
Following the release of his book, Kyler began sharing his story at schools, community events, and book signings. Along the way, they met other adults and parents who had either struggled themselves or had children who were struggling with learning differences. “We were able to advocate with his school and Decoding Dyslexia in support of Senate Bill 48, the Dyslexia early screening bill. Like everything, his advocacy and book signing were cut short with due COVID,” says Ericka. Kyler’s enthusiasm and gumption is evident in the book and in all he does. And, the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. Ericka and Kegdrick are both from California met at Clark Atlanta University. After they married, they settled on a home in Smyrna/Vinings. Now they have two sons. Kyler is 10 and is owner of owner/CEO of K3 Hauling & Grading a company that specializes in hauling, grading, masonry, landscaping, and in other areas of construction. Ericka is as an early education advocate and is involved in advocating for human and sex trafficking and is a member of The Junior League of Atlanta where she serves as liaison for PAACT (Promise All Atlanta Children Thrive), a GEEARS (Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students) initiative. Ericka recently founded a non-profit, I Define Me Transcending Learning Differences. “What I have learned over the past four years is that people rarely discuss learning differences or disabilities. Once I started talking with people openly, several mentioned their struggles or their children struggles, I want I Define Me Transcending Learning Differences to help de-stigmatize LD’s. Let’s talk and share resources, accommodations, strategies,” says Ericka. “There are so many great people with Learning Differences: Bill Gates, Whoopi Goldberg, Damon John, Kevin O’Leary, Walt Disney, Steven Jobs and Danny Glover. They persevered and have done better than most of their peers despite the challenges.” The Smiths do find time to unwind together and explore Smyrna. “I love so much about living here - from the Silver Comet trail to the boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants with the proximity to downtown and 285, I can’t imagine living anywhere else,” says Ericka. “It’s been a great place to raise children, awesome community parks, trampoline parks, art school and Food Truck Tuesdays. Both of my boys have played sports in Smyrna since they were 3. The Smyrna Community Center and City of Smyrna offers great programs. We look forward to the Jonquil festival and taste of Smyrna annually. We love it here.” We can’t wait to see what’s next for this dynamic, engaging family! 32
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020
REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD
VININGS
REALTY REPORT
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
Paces View
$1,250,000
$1,263,695
101%
9
4
5
The Aberdeen
$1,195,000
$1,150,000
96%
7
3
3
Vinings
$1,050,000
$985,000
94%
141
5
6
Rivers Call
$1,200,000
$979,999
82%
139
6
5
Lakeland Estates
$820,000
$855,000
104%
3
5
4
One Vinings Mountain
$850,000
$840,000
99%
22
2
4
Vinings Orchard
$799,000
$787,000
98%
10
4
5
West Haven
$799,000
$785,000
98%
11
6
6
West Vinings Place
$779,000
$767,000
98%
4
5
5
Courtyards of Vinings
$699,000
$682,924
98%
3
4
4
One Ivy Walk
$700,000
$680,000
97%
37
4
5
Vinings Chase
$665,000
$659,000
99%
1
5
5
KINGSTON MANOR
$650,000
$655,000
101%
2
5
4
Highpointe at Vinings
$659,900
$650,000
98%
13
4
4
Williams Park
$674,000
$631,000
94%
24
5
4
One Vinings Mountain
$650,000
$615,000
95%
138
2
3
Forest Hills
$599,500
$610,500
102%
1
4
4
Forest Hills
$599,000
$587,000
98%
28
4
4
Battery on Paces Ferry
$589,900
$579,000
98%
8
3
4
Stonehaven At Vinings
$575,000
$571,000
99%
2
4
3
Vinings Grove
$565,000
$565,000
100%
4
5
5
Olde Vinings Mill
$569,900
$560,000
98%
32
5
4
Smyrna Grove
$562,500
$555,000
99%
41
4
4
One Ivy Walk
$564,999
$555,000
98%
65
4
5
Information compiled f rom First Multiple Listing Service and Georgia Multiple Listing Service f rom dates of 9/1/20 to 9/30/20. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market
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+ 1 cup butter, softened + 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar + 1 egg + 2 tsp vanilla extract + 1/2 tsp almond extract (OPTIONAL) + 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour + 1/2 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp baking powder + 1/4 tsp salt INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or coat with baking spray). In a large bowl with a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 1 minute. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract; beat until combined. Add in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl every now and again. Roll dough into 1” balls, and roll in sugar. Place on baking sheet, about 2” apart. Bake for 10-11 minutes, or until cookies have set. Allow to cool. Top with a little granulated sugar right out of the oven, frost or cover with a glaze when cooled. 34
Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle | November 2020