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Christmas in #SoFu LI F E + C U LTU R E

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Goodbye 2023!

December 2023 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

The fact that this is the last letter of 2023 is insane to me! Have we really blazed through this year? I’m not gonna lie—2023 was one of the best and worst years of my life. A little oxymoronic, I know, but I have a feeling a few of you understand EXACTLY from where I’m coming. The media company and the magazine held steady this year, and professionally, I have zero complaints. Personally, it was a little tougher. I lost more family members and close friends than I would have liked. It’s also the 10th anniversary of my sister’s death, but we have so many wonderful memories of her that help make it a lot easier to manage through the holidays. Here’s the really good news. It’s Christmas, and 2024 is upon us! I’m especially excited about next year, because I can already see how the seeds that have been sown over the last few years are going to sprout. Is it happening that way for you, too? And, all this death talk just rejuvenated the way I see LIFE. I’m realizing that I'm not just living, I’m thriving. It’s crazy; if you think about it, even on our worst days we have it pretty darn good. And we’re about to be blessed with another 365 brand new days to live how we should, want and need to, not just kick the can down the road. The precious present really is a thing. Speaking of which…this present issue is chock-full of items to remind you how great life is right here in SoFu! Fantastic local events, an amazing food story from Chef Andrew, and tips for the ladies to look amazing at those holiday shindigs. So life is definitely life-ing in the best way possible, and all the proof is right here in SoFu Lifestyle. Let’s end the year with a thriving bang; it’s not too late to close it out strong, no matter what has happened in the first 11 months! In the meantime, Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays, from your SoFu Lifestyle family!

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Antwan Lang | antwan.lang@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Kristen Wright Matthews, Stevie Peterson, Shandra Hill Smith, Dawn Thornton CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Kim Evans, Darrell Stoney, Paul Biagui

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

M I C H E L L E TAY LO R W I L L I S , P U B L I S H E R @ S O U T H F U LT O N L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

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Proverbs 3:5-6 SOFU Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the South Fulton 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 SOFU Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Tra p M u s i c M u s e u m i s a n i n t e ra c t i ve ex p e r i e n c e t h a t u s e s a r t t o s h ow c a s e t h e r i c h c u l t u r e o f t ra p m u s i c , o n e o f t h e m o s t p o p u l a r g e n r e s o f m u s i c t o d ay.

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O P E N 7 DAY S A W E E K

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 Bolder Than Ever

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Road Trip T R AV EL

Gift Guide LI FE + C U LT U R E

Giving Back HEA LT H + WELLN E SS

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Fashion Forward A RTS + C ULTU R E

Jack & Jill of America, Inc., Atlanta Chapter, Presents 6th Party with a Purpose

22 ‘Tis the Season for Holiday Travel Take a Christmas Road Trip!

26 Holiday Gift Guide

From All the Santas to Gifts for Grownups!

O N T H E C OV E R

It’s Christmas in #SoFu! What’s on your wish list?

DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

2 7

1-7: Pink Frog Foundation featured Yolanda Adams and raised $192,000 for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @southfultonlifestyle

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. High Museum of Art Presents “Sonya Clark: We Are Each Other” Through Feb. 18, 2024, a major traveling exhibition of the pioneering fiber artist that will bring together her large-scale, community-centered and participatory projects for the first time, including “The Beaded Prayers Project” (1998-ongoing), “The Hair Craft Project” (2014) and the “Monumental Cloth” series (2019).

Scan to read more. Sonya Clark (American, born 1967), The Hair Craft Project: Hairstylists with Sonya: Sonya Clark with Jamilah Williams , 2013, inkjet photograph, 28 × 28 inches. Photo: Naoko Wowsugi.

Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia 2nd Annual Gala Get ready to step into a magical world of wonder and excitement at the 2nd Annual Gala of The Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, Inc. (SCFG). With the theme of "A Winter Wonderland, All for You,” this year's event promises to be a night of pure enchantment and joy. December 2 at Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel, 4736 Best Road, reception at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available at sicklecellga.org/events.

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DECEMBER 2023

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area. ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL

Tis the season for tinsel, twinkling lights, and celebrating the holiday season! Partake in any one of our picks for local holiday happenings and rejoice in the joy and festive spirit around town!

Savannah Fisher in "Annie." Photographed by Evan Zimmerman

Our Picks for Holiday Happenings WOODR UFF AR TS CENTER : “A Christmas Carol” at Alliance Theatre. Stunning

new adaptation, featuring a brilliantly imagined set design and striking costumes! November 11 – December 24. 1280 Peachtree St Ne, Atlanta, Georgia THEATR ICAL OUTFIT: “A Christmas Story” at Theatrical Outfit. Visit the heart of Downtown Atlanta this holiday season for A Christmas Story, November 29 – December 24. 84 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30303 HORIZON THEATRE: Madeline at Horizon. “Madeline’s Christmas” at Horizon Theatre. A charming Christmas tale for kids of all ages! December 2-31. A cute Atlanta Christmas tradition! 1083 Austin Ave NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30307 BALLETHNIC DANCE COMPANY: “The Urban Nutcracker.” Ballethnic's Urban Nutcracker returns to Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel where it all began 30 years ago. December 8-10. 2587 Cheney St., East Point, Georgia 30344 BROADWAY IN ATLANTA: “Annie” at the Fox. The classic musical Annie is coming to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, Dec. 5 – 10! 2970 Clairmont Rd Ne Atlanta, Georgia

Scan for more photos and the full list. Broadway in Atlanta

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Erikka Searles Mitchell Erikka Searles Mitchell is the editor of SoFu Lifestyle. She delights in being AJ’s mom and Christmas is her favorite holiday!

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

The Elite Offerings of Chef Andrew ARTICLE BY STEVIE PETERSON

A hidden treasure lies near the Publix shopping center at Sandtown Crossing. A catering company that offers a litany of services catered to your personalized five star experience is now in SoFu. Intrigued? Executive Chef and Manager of Direct Elite Chef Services, LLC, Chef Andrew is no stranger to providing customers with unforgettable experiences. He started his career at age 18 in Jamaica at one of the finest resorts, Ocho Rios’ Jamaica Grand (now Moon Palace). Andrew worked at the hotel’s restaurants, where he spent time learning new techniques and styles of cuisine. Later, Andrew worked with Chef Eric at the Don Cesar Luxurious Oceanside Hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he was introduced to international cuisine, an experience that is highlighted in the extensive menu offerings available on his website.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Catering Services of Your Dreams Beit large or small, Direct Elite should be the first call for food. Whether it’s a birthday party, wedding, corporate event, anniversary, graduation, or anything in between, Direct Elite serves up the perfect menu for every occasion. Their packages offer a wide range of options that promise to tickle the taste buds of inner foodies. The Elite Option: The presence of Chef Andrew and his service staff throughout the event in the comfort of your home or at a venue of your choosing. The Chef Package Option: A delivery and set-up buffet service. This is the perfect option when hosting a small event. The Personal Chef Option: If the comfort of home is more aligned with your desire, Chef Andrew will work with you to create a long-lasting memory. Picture a three- to five-course meal curated to your delight in your kitchen while you entertain family, friends, or that special someone. The Private Restaurant Option: Admit it, haven’t you always wanted the power to close a restaurant so that only a select few could enter? An environment where you can control the music, the service, and the ambiance? Chef Andrew’s newest service can make this a reality. The Private Restaurant Experience is an exclusive event where there are no interruptions, and you can focus on great food and great company in a private space. Chef Andrew’s catering space is ideal for an intimate dining experience for 10 or fewer diners. Guests who choose to host a private dinner experience can create a unique menu with the assistance of an experienced chef. This allows for a more intimate connection between the chef and his guests, with the option for personalized menus, wine pairings, and dietary considerations.

*Chef Andrew wants to ensure every customer’s expectation is exceeded. Therefore, each selection comes with a scheduled free phone consultation where detailed information is gathered to ensure a successful yet memorable event. Why wait? The holidays are the perfect time to start a new culinary journey. Take this as your official sign to contact Chef Andrew for that next dinner or special occasion. Just to get your taste buds going, how about trying one of his dishes now? He was kind enough to share an amazingly delicious recipe from his personal stash!

Creamy Rasta Pasta ingredients

Rasta Pasta

Cajun Crab Cakes

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast (julienne) • 3 bell peppers, red, green, and yellow (julienne) • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated • 2 cups heavy cream • 1 pack minimum size penne pasta • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced • 1 cup chicken stock • 6 tablespoons olive oil, plus butter • 3 tablespoons Jerk seasoning • Salt and pepper

directions Season chicken breast with Jerk seasoning and let marinate, meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside. In a large skillet, melt butter/oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken breast on both sides, then set aside. Add more butter/oil into skillet; sauté peppers until soft; add garlic and fresh thyme into same skillet. Pour in cream and stock. Sprinkle more Jerk seasoning. Stir well and add parmesan cheese; stir until melted. Add in cooked pasta and stir well to fully coat. Garnish with chopped green onions. With extreme professionalism and enthusiasm, nothing beats the luxury of Direct Elite Chef Services. Directelifechefs.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

BOLDER THAN EVER

ARTICLE BY DAWN THORNTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM EVANS

JACK & JILL OF AMERICA, INC., ATLANTA CHAPTER, PRESENTS 6TH PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

If you combine giving hearts, beautiful shades of every hue, and a crisp fall afternoon, and stir them in a pot, Jack and Jill of America, Atlanta Chapter’s annual signature fundraising event, Bold Lips and Bow Ties, would emerge, bubbling over with steam. Bold Lips and Bow Ties: A Party With A Purpose, was the brainchild of mother member Kimberly Manning, along with Lisa Walker and Kali Beyah, and came to life in 2016 (pausing in 2020 due to the COVID-19 epidemic). The event grows each year, with more than 1,500 patrons this year, and aims to raise funds that support five nonprofit organizations in their quest to assist those in underserved communities locally and nationwide. Benefitting from the efforts are Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta - Hughes Spalding, Dr. Asa Yancey Endowment, Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Kids Doc on Wheels, SEMLink, and Silence the Shame, Inc. Last year, the mother members of Atlanta Jack and Jill, the largest chapter within the organization, with over 200 mothers and 300 children,

raised more than $200,000. This year, they set their sights even higher, and surpassed the goal, with The Home Depot donating at the Diamond Level of $25,000+, The Gibson Charitable Giving Fund donating at the Titanium Level of $15,000+, and Platinum Level Sponsors, Georgia Dermatology Partners, Georgia Tech College of Engineering, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, and Peachtree Orthopedics, Dr. Obi Ugwonali, donating $10,000+ each. Atlanta’s premier social club, The Gathering Spot, housed the soiree, as guests experienced The Pink Carpet, hosted by Upscale Magazine and “The Dean of Fashion” Dr. Courtney Hammonds, along with live music, a luxury silent auction, signature cocktails, and a variety of culinary indulgences. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Former Atlanta Mayor and Atlanta Chapter Mother Keisha Lance Bottoms, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Regional Leadership Director Takeysha Lewis, Regional Treasurer Florence Holland, Regional Secretary Adria Welcher, and Member at Large Selika Sampson were all a part of the grand festivities. Jack and Jill of America Foundation Executive Director Pier Blake and Board of Trustee President Anthony Trotman were also in attendance. “Bold Lips and Bow Ties is, without a doubt, my favorite event of our program year, because it allows our community to join us in fulfilling our mission to positively impact the lives of ALL children through our actions and philanthropy,” says Mikki Anderson, Atlanta Chapter President. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through

leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty. The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is the oldest African American-led nonprofit organization in the United States and the philanthropic arm of the entity. As they celebrate their 55th year, they remain steadfast in their commitment to addressing issues affecting African American children and families. The mission of the Foundation is to invest in programs and services that create a strong foundation for children to thrive long-term, with the belief that every child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and a safe and nurturing environment. Since 1951, The Atlanta Chapter has continued building its legacy of raising the next generation of servant leaders. The chapter hails from the Sweet Sweet Southeastern Region and is committed to making an impact nationwide.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

‘Tis the Season for Holiday Travel

The holiday season may mean sugar, spice, and everything nice, but it also means magical sights, scenes, and sounds. As you’re looking for ways to welcome the season and celebrate the holiday spirit, consider these travel options—all a short drive from South Fulton.

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

CHRISTMAS IN CARTERSVILLE Christmas in Cartersville includes A Country Christmas, where visitors can take in Christmas lights through a drive or hayride. At the annual event hosted by Pettit Creek Farms, young ones can take pictures with Santa and his reindeer, Comet and Cupid. The whole family can enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate, and funnel cakes, plus see animals up close in the petting zoo and even select a freshly cut Christmas tree to take home. Cartersville also has a year-round Christmas store, ‘Tis the Season, that features ornaments, Christmas trees, collectibles, and more. pettitcreekfarms.com/a-country-christmas-final

GOOD TIMES IN GREENVILLE Roughly 2.5 hours by car from Atlanta, Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville is hosting its Christmas Market through Sunday, December 31. The market at the fully decorated lodge includes meet and greets with Santa and live music and entertainment. Guests can choose from holiday-themed food and beverages and take part in 12 Days of Cocktails—choosing from a daily Christmas-themed cocktail, such as Silent Night—yeah right! —Let it Snow, and Believe in Your Elf, starting December 12. kesslercollection.com/ bohemian-greenville

ALPINE ADVENTURES Roughly 1.5 hours north of the Atlanta area, Alpine Helen-White County, Georgia, serves up a Bavarian Christmas without having to leave the Southeast! Take in the festive holiday décor amid the town’s alpine architecture and cobblestone alleyways. In late November each year, the area lights up its 20-foot-tall tree at the annual Lighting of the Village in Edelweiss River Park, with the town dressed up and illuminated each night until February. The tree is decorated with 8,000 lights and more than 800 ornaments. Stay for a night or more in one of the whimsical Alpine lodging offerings. helenga.org

A BLUE CHRISTMAS A mountain getaway holiday is all yours—just 90 minutes by car from Atlanta. The town of Blue Ridge in the North Georgia Mountains hosts a number of events in December. The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association’s Holiday Art Show and Sale takes place through December 16. Shop handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery and paintings made by member artists. Through December 24, climb aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Holiday Express for a festive train ride where you can take in holiday sounds, Christmas story readings, and visits with old St. Nick. BlueRidgeMountains.com/events

CHRISTMAS WITH OLD WORLD CHARM As part of its Christmas at Biltmore celebration, Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina, will showcase its 35-foot-tall Fraser fir tree, decorated with 500 lights and 500 ornaments. With the yuletide tale, “The Night Before Christmas” as its inspiration, the tree and room where it’s featured will shine with colors of red, gold, and emerald. The celebration includes a tour of Biltmore House, the gardens, conservatory, winery, and Antler Hill Village and runs through January 7, 2024. Through Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Biltmore House showcases decorations for the holidays featuring an Old World charm. biltmore.com

ARTICLE BY SHANDRA HILL SMITH | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALPINE

Gaylord Opryland Resort is hosting its annual holiday tradition, ICE! through January 1, 2024. This includes Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. ICE! features more than two million pounds, or 1,000 tons, of ice. New this year, during the 40th annual A Country Christmas event, is the theme “The Polar Express,” based on the beloved Warner Bros. holiday film. Forty world-class ice artisans from Harbin, China, will bring the enchanting tale to life in ice sculpture form. Other activities include a Christmas dinner show, ice skating, ice tubing, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bnago-gaylord-opryland-resort-and-convention-center/ overview

HELEN-WHITE COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

ICE, ICE BABY!

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

SONYA CLARK We Are Each Other

This exhibition is co-organized by the High Museum of Art, Atlanta; Cranbrook Art Museum, Bloomfield Hills, MI; and the Museum of Arts and Design, New York.

SUPPORT FOR THE EXHIBITION AND CATALOGUE IS PROVIDED BY MAJOR FUNDING

PREMIER EXHIBITION

FOR THIS EXHIBITION

SERIES SPONSOR

SERIES SUPPORTERS

IS PROVIDED BY

ACT Foundation, Inc. William N. Banks, Jr.

William Banks Jr. Trust

Cousins Foundation Burton M. Gold Sarah and Jim Kennedy

BENEFACTOR EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS Robin and Hilton Howell

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART ATLANTA THROUGH FEB 18 | HIGH.ORG Sonya Clark (American, born 1967), The Hair Craft Project: Hairstylists with Sonya: Sonya Clark with Jamilah Williams (detail), 2014, pigment print on archival paper, courtesy of the artist. Photo by Naoko Wowsugi. © Sonya Clark.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

Hol id ay

Gift Guide

From All the Santas to Gifts for Grownups! ARTICLE BY ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL AND MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS

01 Black Santa Nutcracker with Christmas Tree from $ 60.00 // 02 Heart 2 Home Gifts Matching Pajamas // 03 Maker’s Mark® Private Selections: “Undaunted 1881” and “1867 The House Standard” // 04 Aunt Betty's Yellow Grits // 05 Maddox & Co. Edward Tassel Loafer // 06 Fedoras in Hapeville! 631 N Central Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354

G IF T GU ID E | L IFE + CU LTURE

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in #SoFu! We are obsessed with the variety of Santa items available at our fave local boutique. It’s our go-to spot for gifts, cards, and even matching pajamas! Check out our selections to find something for every member of the family!

SANTA THEMED GIFTS: These Santas are seriously cute! Shop in person or local and online! They kicked off the season with a visit from The Real Black Santa and a hot chocolate and cookie bar! Visit the store in Sandtown Crossing! So many options! heart2homegifts.com/collections/christmas

CHRISTMAS SPIRITS: Maker’s Mark® Private Selections: “Undaunted 1881” and “1867 The House Standard” Maker’s Mark is proud to announce two new Private Selection bottlings created by influential figures from the Morehouse and Spelman College alumni communities in celebration of historically black colleges and universities (HBCU). As a brand founded on the spirit of challenging convention to make your mark in the world, Maker’s Mark respects the heritage, values and deep sense of community that HBCUs represent and is proud to celebrate HBCU alumni making their mark in their communities, industries and society through these special releases. Maker’s Mark® Private Selection is a bespoke barrel program that allows the bourbon brand’s customers and fans to create their own version of Maker’s Mark, customized according to their personal taste visions. These two limited-release expressions were customized as follows: Developed by D’Angela Proctor, Spelman College alumna and veteran Hollywood producer, “Undaunted 1881” was created to pay homage to HBCUs and their place in history as the epicenters of Black culture, art, and more. “Undaunted 1881” weaves the legacy of HBCUs and the elegance and resilience of her Spelman sisters. Maker’s Mark Private Selections “Undaunted 1881” and “1867 The House Standard” were available in very limited quantities at My Friends Bottle Shop in Atlanta, Georgia for a suggested retail price of $74.99 around SpelHouse Homecoming season. If someone really loves you, maybe they will share their signed bottle!

in February of 2020 and recently became an Amazon. com top seller in the Grits Category. The grits are also sold at Wayfield Food Stores, Eden Fresh Markets and Common Roots Farmers Market in Atlanta and surrounding areas. The grits will soon be in Publix, Kroger, Whole Foods and Walmart. Grandma Betty’s Premium Yellow Grits recently expanded to Brazil, Mexico, and Canada and is “Proudly Woman Owned.” Grandma Betty’s Premium Yellow Grits get rave reviews for the natural, delicious flavor, yellow color and consistent great taste. The difference between Grandma Betty’s Premium Yellow Grits and traditional white grits is that they are enticing to the palate and beautiful on a plate and are a healthier option. “The grits can be served for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, late-night snacks paired with salmon croquettes and grits, fish and grits, shrimp and grits, oxtails and grits, cheese grit cakes and much more,” according to Sandy Poag, founder and CEO of Unique Southern Foods.

LOAFERS FOR HIM: MADDOX & CO. EDWARD TASSEL LOAFER Offering an assortment of leather and suede, and an assortment of colors, the Edward Tassel shoe brings a blend of effortless sophistication and contemporary flair, embodying the aspirations of the modern, stylesavvy gentleman. Constructed through the renowned Goodyear welted technique, they feature a leather sole and a natural cork layer for unmatched comfort, insulation, and a personalized fit. From their elegant, rounded toe to their versatile appeal, they pair effortlessly with any outfit, whether casual or refined. Witness as these shoes transform with each wear, enhancing their comfort and aesthetic allure, rapidly becoming an indispensable accessory to your outfits. Established in 2013, Maddox & Co. was born from the desire to honor their grandfather’s legacy through fashion. The aim was to craft shoes that fused style, comfort, and personal aesthetic. The journey led them to Spain and Italy, where they partnered with local factories for ethical production and sourcing. As a sustainable business, Maddox & Co. aims for zero unsold inventory. All of their goods are on demand or produced in small quantities. themaddoxbrand.com

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Dyslexia Dash Raised $63,000 to Help F u n d Te a c h e r Tr a i n i n g DYSLE X I A DA SH 5K SUPPORTS STRUGGLING R EA DER S

The International Dyslexia Association Georgia (IDA-GA) branch hosted its 17th annual Dyslexia Dash (a Peachtree Road Race Qualifier), attracting more than 2,123 runners and walkers on hand for the fun. The 5K Run/Walk in person took place on Saturday, October 21 at Perimeter Mall and has become a fall tradition during October as part of Dyslexia Awareness Month. Participants received a coveted Dash t-shirt, race bag and swag, and enjoyed music by a DJ and a phenomenal Kids Zone. The approximately $63,000 in proceeds from the event are used to fund dyslexia education, scholarships and grants for teacher training and awareness programs in Georgia. One program is the H.A.R.T. (Helping Assist Reading Tutors) initiative, geared toward providing teacher training and raising awareness in minority communities. Additionally, with funds from this event, the organization’s annual conference and individual donations, IDA-GA has provided more than $99,000 back to the community since 2018 for free and low-cost Structured Literacy® teacher training and free community outreach events. The Dyslexia Dash is an ideal event for anyone interested in supporting educational options for struggling readers. For more information about the Dyslexia Dash , visit ga.dyslexiaida.org/2023-dyslexia-dash/. Research has shown that a child who completes second grade without gaining the skill of reading has only a one-in-four chance of reading at grade level by the end of elementary school. However, with proper reading instruction, many people with dyslexia can learn to read and write well. Early identification and instruction using a multisensory, structured language approach is the key to helping individuals with dyslexia achieve in school and in life.

ABOUT IDA-GEORGIA International Dyslexia Association Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed to increase public awareness of dyslexia and to promote effective teaching approaches and related clinical educational intervention strategies for struggling readers. The organization is a resource and support system for parents, educators and people who are dyslexic. Many of its members are actively involved in the diagnosis and remediation of dyslexia. Members include educators, psychologists, physicians, individuals with dyslexia, and parents who have dealt with learning disability issues within local public and private schools. We facilitate the exploration of the causes and early identification of dyslexia

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and are committed to the responsible and wide dissemination of research-based knowledge. IDA-GA provides an information and referral hotline, community outreach activities, yearly conferences, teacher training scholarships and grants, and e-newsletters. For more information, please visit DyslexiaIDA.org, http://ga.DyslexiaIDA.org/ or call (404) 256-1232.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 32

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

T H E S TA RS T U D D E D FA S H I O N & POLO CL ASSIC R E T U R N E D T O AT L FOR ITS SIXTH SUCCESSF U L Y E A R Photo by Paul Biagui

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WRIGHT MATTHEWS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARRELL STONEY AND PAUL BIAGUI

FASH ION F OR WA R D | ARTS + CULTURE

The Miguel Wilson Collection’s Fashion & Polo Classic weekend has scored again with its sixth annual Atlanta installment. Sponsored by The Corbett Group and Fulton County Arts & Culture, the weekend kicked off on Friday, October 6 with a Welcome Party at The Starling Hotel, followed by the Polo & Pumps Day Party at The Starling and Cocktails Under the Stars at The Thompson Hotel, on Saturday, and all of the festivities ended on Sunday with the illustrious signature event, the Sixth Annual Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic at The Horse Maison at Bouckaert Farm. The Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic has become a who’s who occasion that ATLiens and travelers from afar anticipate as soon as the current year ends. Each year, it grows in popularity and the impact on youth it sets out to make. More people means more funding for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, a nonprofit organization offering support to kids who desire to participate in equestrian sports, especially those who otherwise would not have the opportunity. All proceeds from the 6th Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic benefitted the Ride to the Olympics Foundation. Special guests included a wide range of well-known Atlanta faces and celebrities including Emmy award-winning syndicated radio host Ryan Cameron, Pastor Jamal Bryant, reality star Martell Holt (OWN’s Love & Marriage Huntsville), Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson (HGTV’s Married to Real Estate), FOX 5 DC Correspondent Guy Lambert, Peter Thomas (RHOA), actor Michael “Bolo” Bolwaire (BET’s All The Queen’s Men), former NFL player JaMarcus Russell (Oakland Raiders), Stevie Baggs Jr. (Tyler Perry’s Ruthless), Palmer Williams (Tyler Perry’s Love Thy Neighbor), and more. During the weekend, guests enjoyed all-inclusive gourmet food options, signature cocktails, party tents, live music, polo games, equestrian exhibitions, and a fullfledged fashion experience where everyone gets to play dress up in their derby attire. It’s an experience everyone should have once in their lives. The atmosphere is palpable with people from all walks of life, dressed up, smiling, dancing and having a great time. At the Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic, “Where Culture and Class Connect,” everyone is a VIP. For more information, visit fashionandpoloclassic.com. To learn about The Ride to the Olympics Foundation, visit ridetotheolympics.org.