SOFU, GA August 2024

A Boy's Best Friend

Hey SoFu!

Happy Summer!

The Kids and Pets issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children and pets bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow. They are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best that #SoFu has to offer.

I didn’t get the privilege of having a pet as a child, but it’s a great joy to change that for my son. AJ and Astro the Goldendoodle are the best of friends! I know who will be so sad to see AJ go “back to school.” In this issue, along with some great pet tips, we spotlight some amazing coaches and teachers. A superintendent in Fulton County that’s making a difference and an outstanding school in our local community, Imhotep Academy, anchor the issue and we even have a kid-friendly recipe.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention, and intention shape how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Be blessed, #SoFu!

P.S. My favorite treats for Astro right now are from a Black woman-owned business! Check out Pawstries.com. When she couldn't find great treats for her chicken-allergic and gluten-allergic pups, the former vet tech made her own! Recently relocated from Detroit to ATL, they ship to all 50 states!

ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jada Garner, Justice Frederick, Gabrielle Latimore, Lisa Moyer, Sue Collins

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gerrell Ferries, Alena Harris, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

HOME OF THE ULTIMATE STUDENT

lmhotep Academy provides each student with accelerated academics, which challenges them on and above their grade level and provides tailored academics to those students whose educational achievements may not meet the standard requirement.

Pre-Kto 8th Grade schedule A Tour!

city scene

1-14: SoFu Lifestyle Magazine and Gagnant Media presented an evening of networking and dancing at Wolf Creek Golf Course for our advertisers, staff, and friends Photography by Gerrell Farries

business monthly

Auburn Avenue Research Library 30th Anniversary

The Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History together with supporters, partners, friends, and family celebrated their 30th anniversary. The year-long festivities began with a kick-off conversation with some of the original staff from their opening day 1994. More celebrations are to come!

BronzeLens 15th Anniversary Summer Programming Runs from August 21-25

Screenings of BronzeLens 2024 Official Film Selections will take place along with panels, workshops, master classes, and filmmaking best practices workshops. Additional signature events unique to the BronzeLens experience include Cinema and Social Justice Sunday which feature socially relevant films. The Annual BronzeLens Awards Show celebrates the “Best of Festival” filmmakers. For more information regarding the BronzeLens Film Festival, visit www.bronzelens.com.

Pearl Cleage's Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard at Alliance

Coming to the Hertz Stage August 2 – 11!

Pearl Cleage explores the election of Maynard Jackson, Atlanta's first African American mayor.  Cleage served as Jackson's press secretary during his campaign and followed him into City Hall for 2 years as Director of Communications. In choosing to tell the story of this 1973 landmark election, Cleage creates a cast of characters drawn from her own participation in this transformative moment in our city's history.

Discover Union City, GeorgiaWhere Business Meets Ambiance

Designated as the fastest-growing City in Georgia, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, residential, and economic prowess of a large metropolis.

Nestled just minutes from the world's busiest airport, Union City stands proud as a renowned residence of influential brands like Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, ASOS, Amazon, Mercedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, Atlanta Metro Studios, and many others.

Experience the fusion of business and lifestyle - Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.

K iDsGyM

USA

A LEGACY OF TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH GYMNASTICS

ARTICLE BY JADA GARNER

Since its inception in 1986, KiDsGyM USA® has transformed the lives of over 100,000 children in Metro Atlanta. This innovative program serves children from 12 months to 21 years old, making its mark as one of the most unique intervention and prevention initiatives in the region.

KiDsGyM USA® is more than a gymnastics program; it is a holistic development platform. The impact of its comprehensive approach is evident in thrilling performances at Atlanta

Hawks games and international showcases in China. By partnering with community organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of America, Fulton County Recreation Centers, and Atlanta Public Schools, KiDsGyM USA® ensures its benefits reach those who need them most. The roots of KiDsGyM USA® trace back to the pioneering efforts of Founders Tracy and Stephanie Campbell. Their journey began in 1980, establishing a preschool motor development program in Washington. Six years later, they brought their vision to Atlanta, founding KiDsGyM USA®. Their philosophy emphasizes exposing children to diverse experiences that build confidence, focus, strength, and social skills.

A standout aspect of KiDsGyM USA® is its role in public housing communities. In 1987, it became the first independent after-school program in these areas, using gymnastics to deter at-risk behaviors. The program’s curriculum goes beyond physical activity, enhancing children’s cognitive skills like memory, active listening, and following directions. Kristina Carpenter, the Program Manager of KiDsGyM USA®, embodies the spirit of dedication and excellence that defines the organization. Under her leadership, the program continues to thrive, providing children with opportunities to develop coordination and agility, essential for any sport.

As KiDsGyM USA® moves forward, its commitment to nurturing the potential of every child

It became the first independent afterschool program in these areas, using gymnastics to deter at-risk behaviors.

remains unwavering. Through gymnastics, it builds a foundation of discipline, resilience, and joy, ensuring every participant is equipped for success both in and out of the gym. We encourage more families to join our community and experience the transformative power of KiDsGyM USA®.

IMHOTEP ACADEMY

ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE

BY ALENA HARRIS

Are you familiar with Nguzo Saba? If you’ve ever celebrated Kwanzaa, you know this is Swahili for the seven principles framing the holiday. If you’re a student at Imhotep Academy, not only are you familiar with these principles, but you will probably never forget them. For 30 years, Imhotep Academy has taught students in the South Fulton community with an Afrocentric educational

“The world is vast,” says founding member Evette Jackson, and they want to expose students to multiple avenues of success with diversity in academics and choices. “We teach everything, but everything with the flavor of Africa, always.”

philosophy, empowering them with the confidence to reach their highest potential.

Founded by Evette Jackson, Donzell Rosenberg, and Charlene Rosenberg in 1993, Imhotep Academy was born out of a shared dream to educate students in an Afrocentric environment. Named after ancient Egyptian architect, mathematician, and philosopher Imhotep, the central vision was to create a learning atmosphere that uplifts students so they gain cultural pride and self-respect. Imhotep Academy is a place where students are not just seen as test scores but as individuals with unique potential, who are encouraged to achieve anything.

A UNIQUE EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

As Imhotep utilized his genius to construct the Step Pyramid of Saqqara, Imhotep Academy believes that all students can tap into their genius and learn at an accelerated rate. The unique curriculum is

designed so that all students are taught a grade level ahead from pre-K to 8th grade. This approach, as Principal Dr. Lilian Harris explains, “allows them to become very strong students.”

Along with an accelerated education, Head of School Charlton Harris emphasizes the importance of representation in the classroom.

“Kids must see themselves reflected in the education they receive…and the teachers they have,” he explains. Some students had never experienced a Black educator until attending Imhotep Academy, and they now connect more with their education, creating more pride within themselves. Once students feel proud, “that pride is then turned into academic excellence,” Harris shares.

CELEBRATING CULTURAL AWARENESS

Imhotep Academy understands that the best education includes academic excellence and

cultural connection. Each morning, students recite the seven principles of Kwanzaa and positive affirmations such as “I have the power to choose” to build a sense of community and personal responsibility among students. Students must also take a cultural awareness course each academic year from which they learn about notable Black figures who have been and are currently paving the way. In addition to images of Black excellence throughout school walls, Imhotep Academy offers enriching programs to celebrate Black history and culture, including a Heritage Celebration and African Pride Field Day.

CULTIVATING FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Many private schools tend to accept students they believe are already “the best,” but Imhotep Academy finds the success story within each child. Cultural differences are celebrated and understood, creating a sense of community and comfort that students may not receive at other schools. This personal understanding creates high achievers as students are empowered to “love themselves and love education,” says Harris. While students go on to succeed beyond Imhotep Academy, they frequently visit, as it has become their home.

“When there’s a culture present, there’s a sense of family.”

“THE NEXT 30”

As Imhotep Academy looks to the future, it hopes to be the most elite school for Black education in the United States and continue to be a model of what it means to be a Black educator.

“We have the ability to be amazing and to stay amazing,” says Harris.

“Some students had never experienced a Black educator until attending Imhotep Academy, and they now connect more with their education, creating more pride within themselves.”

DR.CHERISSE CAMPBELL

Growing up in southern New Jersey, Cherisse Campbell, EdD, found her gateway to opportunities through the supportive environment of her school. It was not her community or her parents’ network that opened doors for her, but her teachers’ and mentors’ dedication and belief in her ambitious future.

In 9th grade, Campbell’s English teacher recognized her potential and introduced her to the transformative power of literature. Her 10th grade chemistry teacher recommended her for a summer science program at Rutgers University, marking her first step onto a college campus. The support didn’t end there; her softball coach took the extra effort to drive her to competitive summer league tournaments, accommodating her parents’ demanding work schedules. Furthermore, her high school assistant principal provided glowing college recommendations, earning her full academic scholarship offers from every college that she applied to. Her collegiate academic journey began with a dual degree program and a scholarship from NASA, the resources necessary for Campbell’s success once she received a Chemistry degree

Zone 1 Superintendent Goes Full Circle From A Student to Focused on Students

ARTICLE BY JUSTICE FREDERICK

from Spelman College and a Chemical Engineering degree from Georgia Tech. Following her undergraduate program, Campbell would go on to earn another four degrees from the University of Delaware, Kennesaw State, and Vanderbilt. These achievements seemed unimaginable to her younger self, but they were made possible by the opportunities created for her by dedicated school professionals. Her time at Spelman College and within the Atlanta University Center (AUC) played a crucial role in shaping her career ambitions. Growing up in a working-class family, she was taught to be modest and reserved. However, Spelman taught her to stand tall, spread her wings, and occupy spaces where she hadn’t been invited yet. She drew inspiration from meeting trailblazers who had paved the way for young Black women like herself, empowering her to thrive and contribute positively to the world.

Her journey didn’t stop with her own education. Driven by a passion to replicate the support she received, she aspired to become a school administrator, hoping to create the same nurturing environment for other students. Despite her success as an engineer at one of the world’s largest chemical companies, she remained deeply connected to education through tutoring, speaking at career days, and conducting science experiments in schools.

One day, she realized that her impact could be even greater. Determined to make a more significant difference, she left her engineering job to pursue a full-time master’s program in Secondary Education Curriculum and Instruction, aiming to become a high school chemistry teacher. Her love for teaching was evident, but she yearned for an even broader impact. This drive led her to roles as a Department Chair, Assistant Principal, Principal, and eventually, a Zone Superintendent in Fulton County Schools.

Balancing the administrative demands of her role with the need to stay connected to students, teachers, and parents is a daily commitment. She prioritizes these connections, dedicating her days to engaging with the school community, while administrative tasks are handled in the evenings and early mornings. Her

commute time is often spent catching up on phone calls, ensuring no aspect of her responsibilities is neglected.

As a Zone Superintendent, her core values of teamwork, integrity, and accountability guide her decisions and policies. She works closely with school leaders, community members, and district officials to ensure all students have access to high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted many inequities within schools and their communities, prompting her to lead Fulton County School’s innovative Mobile Learning initiative. This program converted school buses into state-of-the-art mobile classrooms, bringing high-quality STEM activities directly to neighborhoods and community festivals, bridging gaps and eliminating barriers for families.

Engaging with parents and the wider community is essential to her role. While formal methods like surveys and focus groups are used, she values informal interactions at schools and events, where she can truly understand and amplify the voices of the communities she serves. Building strong relationships with teachers and staff is rooted in consistency and honor, forming the foundation of trust necessary to lead through challenges.

Handling feedback and criticism is part of the job she embraces daily. She understands the importance of being open to feedback to develop strong solutions and continually improve. Her message to the community is clear: ensuring students attend school consistently is crucial. No matter how excellent the programs are, they can only make a difference if students are present to experience them.

One of her proudest accomplishments during her tenure is seeing schools not only recover from the pandemic but exceed their pre-pandemic achievement levels. While there is still work to be done, witnessing the hard work paying off is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the entire school community. This journey from student to superintendent is a powerful reminder of the impact that caring educators and unwavering dedication can have on students’ lives.

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”

Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.

“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.”

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

DOG

SOCIALIZING TIPS:

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

EMPOWERING YOUR COMMUNITY

When you live in GreyStone Power’s service area, you’ll catch the cooperative making life better for the community. Its employees are the kind of neighbors you value. They volunteer to help others in a variety of ways.

GreyStone empowers the next generation through the Washington Youth Tour, as well as scholarships for local students.

greystonepower.com

School presentations and events emphasize electrical safety.

GreyStone Power. Empowering your community. Making Life Better

ARTICLE BY SUE COLLINS

Find Your Way at Little Arrow

When author and fly-fishing guide

Charity Rutter was looking for a home base for her Cast and Connect women’s fishing retreat, she needed a destination that was near the trout-rich streams in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that she knows like the back of her hand. She needed a comfortable meeting space for presentations and a happy hour, a variety of accommodations for different groups and budgets and a large fire pit for s’mores and conversation.

The Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend, Tennessee, sits along a winding stretch of the Little River, just a stone’s throw from the entrance to the national park. There are 17 tiny homes, 10 glamping tents, two Airstreams, and four vacation homes on a wooded campus that’s like summer camp for discerning grown-ups. An on-site store, coffee lounge, and resortstyle pool with a beautifully landscaped deck and hot tub, plus a playground and tipi, laundry, chat and chill community fire pit, community garden, basketball court, gaga ball pit, and pickleball courts make this a unique and welcoming spot.

While we spent the days hiking and fishing, the resort was buzzing with activity (in a good way) with families playing games, kids biking to the pool and folks fishing off the bridge, some catching dinner. There’s rafting and hiking nearby, with private dog-friendly trails on the property.

This fall, attend Saturday tail-gate parties at the Lookout Pavilion (our group’s meeting space) to watch the game on the big screen, with concessions and a community vibe. Rent a golf cart to jet around the resort, or take a long, quiet walk along the river at night; turn off your flashlight and look for fireflies and stars. You won’t be disappointed.

CampLittleArrow.com RandRFlyFishing.com

Changing the World One Black Girl at a Time

TOUCH GRASS!

With lakes, mountains, forests, and more in between, hikers, young and old, and their four-legged friends are challenged to explore trails at Georgia State Parks. You can hike at 12 participating parks to earn a certificate! This is a pet-friendly option. Learn more at GAStateParks.org.

TAILS ON TRAILS!

Join the club by purchasing a Tails on Trails Club membership online for just $20 and they will mail you a club shirt and a matching bandana for your pet to wear while you hike. You can keep track of your accomplishments using the checklist below. Hike 12 of the 42 participating parks below with your furry companion to earn bragging rights and a certificate of completion.

You don’t need a dog to be able to complete the challenge on your own. No time limit applies, so hikers can take as long as they wish to complete the requirements. Dogs must be kept on a maximum 6-foot leash when in a Georgia State Park. Please clean up after your pet. Refer to Pets at State Parks at GAStateParks.org for more information. Dog-friendly cottages are also available. Tag  #GaStateParks and #TailsOnTrailsClub.

BECOME A JUNIOR RANGER!

The Junior Ranger Program is a great, kid-friendly option at Georgia State Parks. Experience nature firsthand, explore Georgia’s fascinating history, and enjoy outdoor recreational activities. Junior Rangers

can learn about alligators in South Georgia, about forts along the coast, or about bears and hemlock trees in North Georgia. Pick up and complete a site-specific book!

CONTINUE EARNING REWARDS

Junior Rangers can continue earning additional rewards by participating in other outdoor activities. Junior Rangers can earn up to five other embroidery stickers once they complete activities related to park experiences. To earn additional reward stickers, complete each outdoor activity five times and then take the page to a ranger to collect your reward for these categories:

• Outdoor Fun: Play in the dirt or on a playground, golf, mini golf, disc golf, play tag or hide and seek, build a fort, fly a kite, or dance with the wind.

• Wet Zone: Fish, swim, canoe, kayak, paddle board, aqua cycle, pedal boat, ride in a boat, or creek walk.

• Blaze a Trail: Hike, bike, ride a horse, or walk your dog.

• Kids Care: Want to help a ranger? Attend a volunteer day at a park. You could be asked to pick up trash, remove invasive plants, stain picnic tables, plant trees, or help with trails.

• Camp Out: Spend the night in a tent or an RV. Make sure to use your five senses when it gets dark.

Georgia State Parks is truly accessible for all—human and fur babies alike!

KID CHEF–FRIENDLY GARLIC NOODLES!

Ingredients:

• Ramen noodles

• Soy sauce (green bottle)

• Sesame oil/oil

• Green onions

• Brown sugar

• Garlic (minced)

Directions:

1. Fill a pot more than halfway with water.

2. Turn stove to medium-high heat. Wait for water to boil (see Step 6).

3. Add Ramen noodles to the water. Cook for about 3-5 minutes.

4. Drain water and run cold water over the noodles; drain again. Put noodles aside in bowl.

5. Cut green onions; separate white and green parts.

6. For the sauce, combine 1 cup soy sauce, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, ½ Tbsp garlic, and green onions. Whisk then mix together well with noodles.

7. Heat 1 tsp (just a pinch) sesame oil on medium heat.

8. Add the white part of green onions and sauté until slightly golden.

9. Add noodles and sauce. Mix until noodles are covered in sauce and brown.

10. Add a few green onions on top. Serve and eat!

Planespotting

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ATL AIRPORT DISTRICT

Planespotting, the act of observing airplanes taking off and landing at the airport, is an increasingly popular activity for aviation enthusiasts and families alike!

As the hometown city for the world’s largest airport, College Park offers locals and residents an abundance of options for planespotting. Below, the ATL Airport District, the destination marketing organization for the city of College Park, has compiled a list of the best places to watch planes soar.

• A popular lunch spot among locals and Delta employees, Airport View Restaurant is a casual cafeteria-style eatery that serves Southern comfort

#SOFU'S IDEAL PASTIME IN THE SHADOW OF THE WORLD'S BUSIEST AIRPORT

foods, such as crispy fried chicken and meatloaf. Grab a window seat in the dining room to enjoy views of planes taking off from the runway right across the street.

• For more prime flight path locations while dining, check out the rooftop dining area at Nouveau Bar & Grill and the back patio at Aye Tea Elle. From the outdoor seating area of the restaurants on College Park’s “restaurant row,” including Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar, and The Real Milk & Honey, planes on the ascent put on a show for diners.

• Plane enthusiasts seeking an overnight getaway will find the Atlanta Airport Marriott and Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel ideal for lounging with a balcony view of planes.

• Golf lovers can enjoy a 9-hole course at Historic College Park Golf Course while watching planes soar.

• For a more action-packed experience, The Phoenix Trail walking and running park is perfect for incorporating physical activity while watching the planes.

• The Porsche Experience Center offers a chic and modern setting with breathtaking views of two test tracks and the bustling airport. If you have a need for speed, opt for a driving experience where you’ll test your mettle behind the wheel of a Porsche on the nearly 3 miles of test track with the backdrop of jets soaring overhead. Or leave the driving to the professionals and reserve a table at Restaurant 356 for lunch or dinner for a memorable meal complete with thrilling views.