elcome

W Magazine
April 2008
A lifestyle magazine for newcomers

the Oprah
Magazine Club
welcomes you
WELCOME to Kathleen Jackson Bertrand:
the WEST END
the Hidden dangers The FACE
of soy
Home Sweet Home
of ATLANTA
DR. TURPEAU SPEAKS:
Sex in the New City
ue!
r Iss
Your Money...Your Life ie
Prem
Welcome A lifestyle magazine for newcomers
Magazine
April 2008 • Vol. 1 Issue 1

Publisher
Lea O’Neal
•
Executive Editor
Donald W. Gregg
WELCOME
Our Contributors
•
Relocation Editors Mary Bear & Esther Michaels, Former New Yorker and current
Mary Bear Relocation Editors, are regular Macon, Georgia, resident, Nigel Roberts
Esther Michaels columnists helping newcomers feel brings vast expertise in the book publishing
• a part of Atlanta. With expertise industry from Random House Publishers
Art Director working with corporations and to us. You’ll find 2 articles by him. The
Tracy Stalling community organizations, their first is found on page 6, “Welcome to The
• firm, Michaels Bear Alexander & Oprah Magazine Club,” and our Neighbor-
Account Consultant Woodward, guides clients through hoods feature found on page 13, “Welcome
Robert H. Bolton business transformation for to Historic West End.”
• immediate and long-term results.
Photographers Their article, “Plugging In” (page 15), is worth sharing with a friend For the last 9-years, John L. Sands, Jr.,
Dianne Gregg or family member interested in following the path to making has served on the Board of the Atlanta
Alex Jones Atlanta home. They emphasize the role community plays to get Dogwood Festival as Chair of the
Andrew Wicker plugged in and to stay connected. Hospitality Committee. As a custom tailor
• specializing in men’s shirts, John is heavily
Advertising & Sales Director Five years ago, Shelly Dozier- engaged in the fashion, wardrobe, image
Brian Lewis McKee co-founded a home décor consulting and design industry. Whether
• and accessories gift store called The you are dressing for a formal affair or casually attending a family
Chaplain Scarlet Tassel in Sandy Springs. Her reunion, John will help make your fashion statement one that is
Bishop John H. O’Neal article, “Home Sweet Home” (page memorable. His article, “Do You Measure Up?” (page 12) is tailored
New York/ Florida 7), was written with newcomers to raise questions about how well we fit in our attire.
• in mind to personalize a home
Board of Advisors environment into a relaxed haven. National Bestselling Author Nea
Jane Berry Anna Simone is an activist, advocate and
Robert H. Bolton A native Georgian, Lonie Haynes mother of three beautiful daughters. She
Jeffrey Brathwaite is a film, music and book critic, knows first hand the daily encouragement
Shirley Coleman having contributed to The Urbanite, needed to raise children who love to read.
Shelly Dozier-McKee Institute Entertainment, GRIP and On page 12, you will find her article,
Curtis King MTV-U magazines. He’s interviewed “Your Child, The Reader.” Enjoy!
Calvin Maddox celebrities such as Tyler Perry, for
Esther Michaels which he garnered a Georgia Press Dr. Aaron Turpeau is a Licensed
Tony Morrow award, to former vice President Al Professional Counselor and Certified Hypnotherapist. His practice
Mary Norwood Gore. Currently he is completing specializes in personal growth, creating
Toni Oliver his graduate degree from Boston healthy love relationships and marriage
Susan Radulovacki University and collaborating in the enrichment. For newcomers, perhaps
Fredrick Robinson development of a brand marketing firm. On page 11, “Coming to a the last thing one thinks about is how
Karen M. Robinson Theatre Near You,” he gives a short review of two movies soon to be to keep sex alive while unpacking boxes
Nea Anna Simone released. and finding the nearest grocery store.
Sean Thorndike Dr. Turpeau speaks honestly in his
Lisa Zachery With an MBA degree in management article, “Sex in the New City” (page 16).
from Northwestern University, D. Dennis
Contact the publisher at: Hinton is a well sought after lecturer Ever since she can remember, Lisa
welcomeatlantamagazine@yahoo.com sharing his wealth of knowledge as a money D. Wade has been an advocate. She
manager. He has 21-years of experience has championed causes for animal
For advertising rates and in the investment banking industry and rights, the elderly and neighborhood
information call Brian Lewis at you’ve probably seen him on TV, the NBC improvements. It seems only natural for
678.687.1876 or affiliate, 11 Alive, sharing analytical financial her since she is striving to live a more
email: brianlewis678@yahoo.com information. His column, “Money Matters,” appears on page 9. holistic life that her interest would turn
to the chronic devastation of our planet.
Originally from Chicago, this Please join her team of “green angels”
current Atlanta transplant Caiphia to save our planet and implement her
Morrow brings her love of wine and “green tips” into your daily life. She’d like to hear what you are doing
Welcome Magazine is published seasonally. experiences of Napa wine valley to to be a good steward of God’s green earth. Her column, “Becoming a
Reproduction in whole or in part without Welcome Magazine. Married to chef Green Angel,” is printed on page 14.
written permission is prohibited. Opinions and owner of the “Pecan Restaurant”
expressed in this publication do not necessar- in College Park, Georgia, she loves Cover photography by Ernest Washington
ily reflect the opinions of the staff and writers
pairing good food with the perfect EW Productions 488 Edgewood Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312
of Welcom Magazine. Letters and unsolicited
manuscripts sent to Welcome Magazine will
wine. Sit back, relax and raise your www.edubphoto.com
become property of Welcome Magazine and glass as you read her article, “First Sip
may be published at our discretion without of White” on page 14.
compensation. All rights reserved.

Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 

 Denard Stalling

“Classic Keys”, 30” x 40”

“Sax In The Evening”, 26” x 36”

VININGS GALLERY
4686 S ATLANTA ROAD, SUITE F, SMYRNA, GA
500 YARDS INSIDE I-285 AT S ATLANTA ROAD 404.794.7762
www.VININGSGALLERY.COM
Welcome Y’All!
from the publisher
Lea O’Neal
W elcome to WELCOME Magazine!
You don’t know how long I’ve waited to official-
ly say those words. From the bottom of my heart, I want
you to know that the “southern hospitality” bestowed upon
me some 30 years ago is now presented to you through our
new publication.
Whether you’ve been living in Atlanta for a few days
or a few decades, you need to know that the red carpet of
friendship is at your feet. WELCOME Magazine is the
first ethnically diverse relocation publication in the United
States of America. With over 500 new people moving here
each and everyday, Atlanta is the place to be.
Our contributing writers are real people who live next
door to you. They have experienced the same homesick-
ness and sense of loss and isolation as you have. Our team
of writers will address the issues we have all struggled with
from time to time—whether it’s finding our way around
I-285 or finding a great private school in town. You are not
alone!
This is our first issue. The editors and our Board of
Advisors are anxious to hear from you in the weeks and
months to come. On page 18, you will discover our re-
source directory—At Your Service. I genuinely hope you
will patronize our advertisers and get to know our business
partners, personally.
City Lights, Southern Nights
from the executive editor
donald gregg
S pringtime in
Atlanta—what a de-
lightful time to introduce
WELCOME Magazine
to the city’s newcomers!
Welcome to a city whose
very symbol—the Phoe-
nix—stands for rebirth.
As Atlanta’s profusion
of dogwoods, redbuds
and other flowering trees
blossom gloriously, we invite you to share our enthusi-
asm for a city that constantly finds ways to renew itself.
As executive editor, I invite you—the newcomer—to see
yourself as the most important element in Atlanta’s peren-
nial rebirth.
Going forward, please tell me how you have found ways
to contribute to the excitement, the buzz, and the sense of
movement of your adopted city. I would love to share some
of your stories in this column. Perhaps you bring a sense
of fashion and color to Atlanta. Or maybe you have joined
There is one person I would like for you to
make a point of meeting this year. Her image
graces the cover of this our inaugural issue. She
is Kathleen Jackson Bertrand, the gal next door.
All that is good about Atlanta you will find in
Kathleen. You need only meet her once, and you
will realize that you have indeed connected with
the essence of Atlanta.
Although your family may be miles away,
WELCOME Magazine will be your new ad-
opted family of friends!
My parents, Bishop and Mrs. John H. O’Neal,
have been married for the last 55 years. My sister
and I grew up in a household where we took
the passage of scripture found in the book of
Hebrews, chapter 13 and verse 2, literally. It says,
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers,
for by this some have entertained angels without knowing
it.” Had it not been for their example of Christian hospital- from the
ity, there would be no WELCOME Magazine today. So, a r t d i r e ct o r
I’d like to pause and thank them for instilling in me the tracy
love for strangers with the understanding that now our stalling
paths have crossed, we are no longer strangers, but friends.
A s a graphic designer, I
usually spend all my
time behind the scenes. I enjoy
expressing myself through other
folks’ words and pictures. When
Lea asked me to write a brief
note, I wasn’t thrilled, but I
agreed to give it a try.
I would like to welcome you
to Atlanta. I’m originally a
the tens of thousands of community volunteers who give
Atlanta its heart, warmth and soul. As you read the words
of our outstanding writers, I know you will be inspired to
Yankee from Erie, Pennsylvania
but have been a Southerner now
step out with confidence and take your place alongside all for almost 20 years. I don’t miss
of the wonderful people who have chosen to make Atlanta the snow (in April sometimes!),
their home. and I don’t miss the bitter cold,
I especially draw your attention to the neighborhoods gray skies, or chilly summers. I
that we feature in each issue of WELCOME Magazine. do love our hot, humid weather,
You will read about the historic West End neighborhood sunny blue skies, grits, greens
in this inaugural issue. But don’t just read about it—come and cornbread and my own two
see for yourself. And while you’re here, treat yourself to a Georgia peaches—my daughters,
great lunch at Chanterelle’s Café and Catering (646 Serra, 18 and Taylor, 14. There’s
Evans Street SW). No, this isn’t a “product place- so much to love
ment”—we just like the food and the folks there! about Atlanta. I
Other articles in this issue of WELCOME Maga- hope you enjoy
zine will give you plenty of tips to help you settle into discovering all
the vibrant life of Atlanta. I look forward to hearing its nuances as
all about it from you, so please contact me at much as I have.
WelcomeAtlantaMagazine@yahoo.com.
Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 
The Oprah Magazine Club
Welcomes You
by Nigel Robe rts

I
n 2003, Lea O’Neal discovered that many other Atlanta-area women also
read O, The Oprah Magazine for inspiration and personal growth. Rather than
each of them reading O in isolation, Lea thought everyone would benefit
from gathering each month to share their thoughts about the current issue.
Marking its fifth anniversary, the Oprah Magazine Club is still unique and
continues to provide a valuable forum for discussion. Lea, a 53-year-old New York
City transplant, started the club with 72 members and continues to serve as its
president.
“I created the Oprah Magazine Club for newcomers who want to put the words
that they find on the pages of this publication into action,” Lea says. “At each

monthly meeting, new friendships are formed and lives are transformed.”
The Oprah Magazine Club meets monthly at the Buckhead Library.
O Magazine covers a range of topics “wonderfully in-depth,” says original mem-
ber Jacqui-Marie Gordon. Before joining the group, she read the magazine by
herself and wondered whether other women shared her experiences.
Jacqui-Marie, a retired high school counselor and mother, survived many of
life’s toughest challenges and felt a need to share her experiences. She recalls feel-
ing the connectedness.
Andrew Wicker
oth Oprah and her magazine inspire and challenge women to grow.
B
“Oprah Winfrey is an international treasure and a role model. Every time you
think Oprah accomplished something extraordinary, she breaks through another
glass ceiling,” Lea says referring to news of Oprah’s newest business venture—a
television network.
There’s no fee to join. The only requirement is that each member read the cur-
rent issue of O Magazine and flag pages for discussion. For a list of meeting dates,
contact OprahMagazineClub@yahoo.com.

COURAGE: The Vision to End Segregation,

the Guts to Fight for It
More than half a century ago, the first of five lawsuits were launched
that set into motion a series of national events that continue to shape
our lives today.
Courage: The Vision to End Segregation, the Guts to Fight for It tells
the story of the brave citizens of Clarendon County, South Carolina,
who brought the first lawsuit that eventually led to the landmark 1954
Supreme Court decision Brown v. Board of Education, a ruling that
Andrew Wicker

would forever change America.

Courage is based on an award-winning exhibition developed in 2004
by Levine Museum of the New South to mark the 50th anniversary of
the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education. The “case
of the century,” as it is often called, began when a country preacher
named Reverend J. A. De Laine and his neighbors filed a lawsuit demand-

A TOUCH OF CLASS ing the end of separate, unequal schools for their children.
Courage tells the story of a community—people outside the tradi-
CATERING tional power structure, without wealth, and often with little classroom
education—and how they worked together to begin the process that
Full service catering with a touch of class
ended legal segregation of the races in America’s schools.
Visitors travel the road from Clarendon County to the Supreme Court
and witness the segregated South as they are transported back to “The
Corporate, Social and Church events Way It Was” in the late 1940s. Personal histories, haunting photographs,
15 years of experience interactive components, artifacts, and reproductions of letters and
documents all help to tell the story of this monumental time in our
Yolanda S. Brice nation’s history.
Event Coordinator Courage is on display through June 22, 2008, at The Atlanta History
Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. Info: AtlantaHistoryCenter.com or
ysbrice@aol.com
404.814.4000
404-822-4962

 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

Home Sweet Home
by S h el ly D ozie r-McKee

Y
ou’ve heard the saying, “There’s No Place Like Home.” Well it’s not only touch; a water feature to add a soothing sound; a beautiful candy dish filled with
true, it’s a motto we all should embrace. Why? Because your home is the your favorite treat to indulge your sense of taste. Tapping into your senses will
one place you can go to replenish your soul and be just who you are. invigorate your decorating scheme and create a sense of balance and harmony in
In addition to creating a beautifully decorated home, here are some key design your home.
elements to help you create a home that is a true reflection of you. As you set about decorating your home, let you soul guide you and create a
Personalize Your Home—Incorporate your favorite colors into your décor. place that not only reflects who you are, but inspires you to be all that you can be.
Pleasing colors will induce a sense of calm and relaxation. Place photos of friends
and family throughout your home as an easy way to connect to the people
you love. Group together collections, family heirlooms and items of special
importance for a personal touch. When you decorate with items you love, you
The Law Office of

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not only create a home that is warm and appealing, but one that exudes your
personality. Creating a reflection of yourself within your home is a sure-fire way
to create that Home Sweet Home feeling.
Create Comfort Zones—Arrange the furniture in your home to take EDWARDS
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Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 

The Hidden
Dangers of Soy You CAN have
Why soy may be killing you... better health!
and you don’t even know it!
by D i anne Greg g

The truth is that soy could be killing you and your family, and you may not
even know it. Do you know what is in soy and soy protein? Did you know that if
you are experiencing unusual weight gain, bloating or nausea, just removing soy
products from your diet could eliminate it all?
Today’s families are consuming soy and soy products much, much more than at
any time in the past. Is it just a coincidence then, that today’s families are also see-
ing many more cases of obesity, thyroid problems, osteoporosis, cancer and many
more diseases than our ancestors did?
I bought into the soy fad just like everyone else – until I went into anaphylactic
shock! I discovered I was allergic to soy (deathly allergic!), and this prompted me
to do some research into the subject. What I found out about soy shocked me
into writing a book about it.
You may be reading this and thinking, “they wouldn’t have put anything on the
market if it wasn’t safe – aren’t these things tested and regulated?” Well, they are
not supposed to put things in the
stores that aren’t safe, but that’s if
you trust the FDA! In 1966, they
did a lot of research into soy and
the harmful substance in the soy-
bean. They found that there are
naturally occurring compounds
within the bean that are toxic to
humans and animals. Soy has
even been linked to breast cancer
and to brain damage in infants!
I guess the food manufac-
turers did not care about the
research that was done in 1966.
The soy industry makes $70
billion each year, and whenever
we buy soy and soy products,
we are giving them more
reasons not to care!
By now you may be wondering why I keep
referring to soy products. Did you know that due to advances in food technology,
the industry is now isolating soy proteins, isoflavones and other substances found
in the soy bean and adding them to foods where soy does not occur naturally?
The stunning truth is that almost all processed and manufactured foods today
have some form of soy in them.
This is a highly disturbing fact, especially because soy actually takes away the
nutrients in other foods, not allowing the body to benefit from them.
There are many claims made about soy by the soy industry. We have all heard
how soy will reverse your child’s obesity, how soy contains fewer calories and fat,
how soy will prevent cancer, and the list goes on. However, there are many hidden
dangers with soy products. Keep your family safe from soy protein danger. Do
not feed your children soy products. Do not give your baby soy infant formula.
Remember to research claims and “health products” before serving them to your
family.
To learn more, visit www.hiddensoy.com.

 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

Money Matters
by D. D e nnis Hinton

Y
ou have just returned from a second house-hunting trip in Atlanta, and
now you are ready to settle into your new life here. You have found the
perfect house with the large white stucco columns that tower into the
sky. And you can’t wait to take off your shoes and tiptoe on your picture-perfect,
well-manicured lawn.
Welcome to Hotlanta, where every other person has a new Beamer and people
speak to one another as they enter a building. If you still need help finding your
way around town or wonder why they didn’t name this place the Kudzu city
rather than the Peachtree city, you are not alone.
Atlanta really does represent all that is good in the South, and the city offers a
newcomer an opportunity to prosper—if the newcomer is willing to work hard.
It’s a busy city with a vibrant nightlife and many social opportunities. Just don’t
get trapped in all of the glitz and glitter.
Before the moving truck unloads your precious possessions, let’s make sure
your financial priorities are up to snuff. I want you to save, invest and begin plan-
ning for a long and rich future. Here are a few things you may want to consider in
the weeks to come:
1. Establish a relationship with a local bank. Yes, I know everyone at your
old credit union knew you on a first-name basic, but you are now in a new city.
Talk to neighbors and co-workers about who they bank with and why they have
chosen a particular financial institution. Make a list of the things that you want
from a bank and what your current needs are. Begin interviewing bankers until
you’ve found a right fit.
2. Check out your credit scores. A new banking experience can offer new
credit opportunities, and that’s good. I know credit is universal; however, it can’t
hurt to establish some local credit in your new city.
3. Roll over that 401k from your previous employer. If you are pondering
what to do with your 401k that you left at your old company, roll it over to an
IRA Rollover Account, which will give you more investment options. Create a
business friendship with a financial planner who can put together a portfolio
review and can help you develop an action plan of saving and investing.
4. Visit a local insurance agent. Now is the time to get an insurance check up.
With a new job, a new home and possibly a new automobile, make sure you and
all of your possessions are protected. Your old $100,000 life insurance policy was
fine when you made $25,000 a year and had one child; but now you make a lot
more and your needs have changed.
Getting your financial house in order should be a priority now that you have
made the move to Atlanta. Take this opportunity to get motivated. There are
plenty of excellent financial professionals in Atlanta who will help you. Make sure
your house is in order both cosmetically and financially…kudzu and pollen aside.
Financial Analyst D. Dennis Hinton of Resource Securities shares his fiscal expertise on
the NBC affiliate, WXIA 11Alive News Sunday Today. Reach him at: D2onmoney@aol.
com or 404-569-1030.

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A Full Service Money Management and Financial Planning Firm
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Call D. Dennis Hinton—Financial Analyst 11 Alive NBC News
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Chief Money Manager
8725 Roswell Road Suite O-307
Atlanta, Ga 30350
404 569-1030
d2onmoney@aol.com

Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 

 Kathleen Jackson Bertrand, the Face of Atlanta
Part I
by L e a O ’Neal
S
he has the voice of an Archangel….com-
ing forth to carry us home. If you’ve ever
been in her presence, you will be swept
away into a seventh heaven. She delivers a message
spiced with soul and sprinkled with sass. Hear her
sing once and you’ll yearn for more. Meet her once
and you’ve found a friend. WELCOME Magazine
is proud to present our first feature article, an ex-
clusive interview with Kathleen Jackson Bertrand,
senior vice president at the Atlanta Convention
and Visitors Bureau.
Lea: Before we talk about your extensive pro-
fessional accomplishments in Atlanta, let’s begin by
taking a glimpse into your personal achievements.
Tell me about your family?
Kathleen: Next to God, my family is the light
of my life. I have four children, two brothers, one
sister, a sister-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews and
a grand nephew who all live right here in Atlanta.
Much of my joy in what I have achieved comes
from being able to share my life with my fam-
ily. They are after all the motivation for many of
my achievements in the first place. Family is first,
especially my children.
Lea: Last year an announcement was made
by the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
(ACVB) promoting you to senior vice president,
community and governmental affairs. What does
this mean and what will you be doing in this new
role?
Kathleen: This promotion certainly recognizes
my 25 years of hard work at the Atlanta Conven-
tion & Visitors Bureau, and I’m so grateful. I never
dreamed I would be a part of this industry for so
many years. My renewed focus in the months to
come will be on interacting within the hospitality
industry, within the community-at-large--both
grassroots and corporate--and within the govern-
ment arena, particularly city and state government.
Lea: Newcomers would want to know how you
landed the job with the ACVB several decades
ago. How did you get your foot in the door and
make the connection?
Kathleen: While living in the Virgin Islands
with my husband, I returned to Atlanta for a
Christmas holiday. The Atlanta Journal and
Constitution printed an article addressing addi-
tional tax funding had been approved by the City
of Atlanta for the Atlanta Convention & Visitors
Bureau. There was a mandate from city council to
increase the hiring of African Americans. I called
10 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!
Much to her credit, Kathleen Bertrand:
—created the “Diversity in the Hospitality Industry Sum-
mit,” an annual conference which addresses issues of
marketing to diverse communities
—has worked with ACVB’s diversity marketing program
and has positioned the organization as a leader in cor-
porate diversity awareness, internationally
—has been recognized by the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s
“Atlanta’s Top Hospitality Industry Leaders”
—was asked to serve on the Metro Atlanta Chamber of
Commerce’s Atlanta Public Schools Education Commit-
tee
—was appointed to the board of Keep Atlanta Beautiful
in 2005
—serves on the board of the Grady High School Founda-
tion
—was voted for the past eight years by Black Meetings &
Tourism Magazine as one of the “Most Influential Afri-
can-Americans in the Meetings & Tourism Industry
—developed the Atlanta Heritage, an annual visitor’s
guide targeted at the African-American traveler
—created the first Web site of a major convention & visi-
tors bureau to focus on local African-American histori-
cal sites and attractions
Dr. Donald Stewart, the president of Spelman
College, my previous employer, who contacted
Sonjia Young, sister-in-law of Ambassador
Andrew Young and member of the ACVB.
Ms. Young placed a call on my behalf to Ted
Sprague, who was the president of the Bureau. I
then was offered an interview to meet with Mr.
Sprague. I came to the Bureau with the strong
philanthropic and alumnae experience from
my work at Spelman as Director of Alumnae
Affairs.
Lea: I’m big on volunteerism. When I
relocated to Atlanta in 1977, one of the first
things I did was to volunteer in the political
campaign of Frank O’Neal. He was running
for Atlanta School Board and since we had the
same last name, I decided to pitch in and help
him out. Why is it important for newcomers to
volunteer?
Kathleen: Well, for as much as Atlanta has,
there is still remains a large number of those
who have not. I am not speaking of economics
alone. Volunteerism can take place at the food
bank, a church, the public schools and with
any of the large number of non-profit, service-
oriented organizations that are here--anywhere
an extra hand is needed. Service to others is the
greatest gift one can offer. My former pastor,
the Rev. Walter Kimbrough would say, “You’re
blessed to be a blessing!” Atlanta’s people have
been truly blessed. So volunteerism gives us all
a chance to re-deposit.
Lea: You live in the black community, not far
from one of the largest congregations in town.
What attracted you to Cascade United Meth-
odist Church?
Kathleen: Cascade United Methodist is a
family church. I had visited other churches, and
Cascade made me feel the most welcome with
my children. The music ministry was spectacu-
lar, so naturally that appealed to me. I was also
impressed with the fact that the parking lot was
filled six out of seven days in the week. Day or
night, there’s always something going on. I knew
that there would be something that I could do
on one of those days with my church.
Lea: Any parting words for those who are
new to Atlanta?
Kathleen: God is good. Welcome to the
A-T-L-!
City
Highlights
By Dav id N. Patton, IV
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER…
Explore the history of Atlanta and
the South through award-winning
programs and exhibitions, including
one of the country’s largest exhibitions
on the Civil War. Tour the 1845
Tullie Smith Farm and1928 Swan
House mansion or stroll through 33
acres of beautiful gardens and trails
before exploring the Centennial
Olympic Games Museum. Contact:
404.814.4000
ATLANTA UNIVERSITY
CENTER…this section of town
is called Vine City. The AUC is
comprised of Clark Atlanta University,
the Interdenominational Theological
Center, Morehouse College,
Morehouse School of Medicine, Morris
Brown College and Spelman College.
Contact: 404.523.5148
CENTER FOR PUPPETRY
ARTS…the largest organization
in North America dedicated to the
art of puppetry has just celebrated
its 27th year. Located in Midtown,
the center offers performances from
the Family Series for everyone and
New Directions for adults. Contact:
404.873.3391
CITY SEGWAY TOURS…imagine
cruising effortlessly through beautiful
parks and downtown Atlanta sidewalks
while receiving a great historical and
informational orientation of The
City! This is the first of its kind: a
self balancing personal transporta-
tion device designed to operate in any
pedestrian environment. Contact: 877.
SEG.TOUR
INSIDE CNN STUDIO TOUR…
even if you’re not a top news anchor,
you can still get in on all of the action
of TV news making at the headquar-
ters of CNN and Headline News.
The tour includes the Control Room
Theater, a look at CNN Espanol, the
workings of the Special Effects Studio
and the Main Newsroom. Contact:
1.877.CNN.TOUR
THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM…
the world’s largest and most engaging
aquarium is home to more than 100,00
animals of 500 different species, eight
million gallons of fresh and marine
water, with five galleries depicting
different habitats. Say hello to the
whales, penguins and whale sharks, the
W here largest fish on the planet will plunge
you into a one-of-a-kind aquatic
Shopaholic-Sports-Fanatics, experience. Contact: 404.581.4444.
Theater-Going-Nature Lovers,
THE HIGH MUSEUM OF
Whale-Watching-Race Car Fans,
ART…is the leading art museum
Soul-Food-Eating Vegans,
in the southeast, where visitors can
Rollercoaster-Riding-Panda-Loving-History Buffs, expect a broad, diverse selection of
Sun-Worshipping-Gallery-Hopping-Club Hoppers, and art comprising 19th/20th century
Roller-Blading-Muppet-Lovers American works, European paintings,
decorative arts, African, African-
are always welcome American art, photography, modern
in the premier and contemporary art. A major
expansion was recently completed
City of the South. designed by Renzo Piano which added
three new buildings. In 2006, the High
launched an unprecedented, 3-year
partnership with the Musee du Louvre
which will bring hundreds of works
of art from Paris to Atlanta. Contact:
404.733.HIGH
NEW WORLD OF COCA-
Find out more at www.atlanta.net
COLA…is located at Pemberton Place
in the heart of downtown Atlanta. It is
the only place where you can explore
the complete story—past, present and
Coming to a future­—of the world’s best known
brand. From the moment you arrive,
Theatre Near You…
it will be clear that this is the World
like no other. A 4-D movie experience,
a fully operational bottling line and
the chance to sample over 70 different
By L oni e Hay nes products made by the Coca-Cola
Company around the world all await
Hancock – Will Smith is one of Hollywood’s most bankable you. Contact: 404.676-5151
actors; his films are few but highly successful. He continues the trend with
‘Hancock. The story centers on a tortured superhero (Will Smith) who PIEDMONT PARK…founded in
crash-lands in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, and tries to transform himself 1904 with more than 180 acres, the
by romancing an alluring housewife, causing chaos in the city. There’s a park is situated between 10th Street
great deal of positive buzz on the film with critics and inside industry and Piedmont Avenue in Midtown.
executives. It is rumored that the special effects are state of the art, coupled Free tours are offered by the Piedmont
Park Conservancy. Contact: 404.875.
with a strong storyline. Release date July 2, 2008. Rated ® Sony Pictures
PARK
Toussaint – Toussaint Louverture, a black man, born in 1743, was
a leader in the Haitian Revolution. He led a massive, bloody struggle for
UNDERGROUND ATLANTA…
slaves against the white landowners and slave traders—ultimately securing
six city blocks in downtown Atlanta
control of the government in Haiti. This amazing story is being brought to have been transformed into a
the screen by Actor/Director Danny Glover spirited marketplace that offers
and an amazing cast. Originally slated for historic guided tours and features
release in early 2009, there are rumors of a Kenny’s Alley with 12-spectacular
late 2008 release. The cast is being led by restaurants, more than 100 specialty
Mos Def (16 Blocks) and Angela Bassett, stores, entertainment emporiums,
with additional strong performances street-cart merchants and the
by Don Cheadle, Chiwetel Ejiofor and newest attraction, Aero Balloon, an
Johnathan Rhys Meyers. adventure ride that rises up to 350
feet above Atlanta’s downtown street.
Contact: 404-523.2311
Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 11
Do You Measure Up?
By Jo hn L. S ands

O
ne of the most important considerations when it comes to clothes
shopping—one of the most misunderstood and sometimes ignored—
is the importance of proper fit. Whether you’re a budget clothing
shopper, purchase from the finest boutiques, or buy from all those department
stores in between, the fit of your clothing can make or break a good first Your Child,
impression in social or professional settings.
How your clothes look on you can make all the difference in the world. Let’s
take jackets for example. A baggy, ill-fitting jacket looks sloppy and may even
The Reader
cause you to slouch. A well-cut jacket looks By Ne a Anna Si m one

How fit can improve straighter, projecting poise and confidence.
your style and your
attitude.
Pants: The right pair of pants
doesn’t need to be tight—the
pants should fit just so. In fact,
pants that fit right will make you
look slimmer and trimmer than
pants that are too tight or that
have too much fabric hanging
from the rear area. You’ll notice
the difference the minute you put
them on.
Jackets, coats, dresses and tops:
Wearing tops that create a waist is
important in having a crisp, pulled-
together look. Remember that
clothes that are too boxy or loose
tend to fade into the background.
Boxy shapes will also make you
look and feel shorter than you are.
Buy clothes that are a little loose
rather than a little tight. Too tight
an outfit makes you look heavier.
Don’t buy a jacket, even if it is
perfectly tailored, if the sleeves
are too long or too short. The
sleeve should be just long enough
to cover the top of the wrist bone.
Check the sleeve length carefully
in a full-length mirror.
Picture yourself as the poised and
confident person that you are, and
then go forth into the world of At-
lanta wearing a well-fitted outfit.
T
neater and will help you to stand up a bit
here was a time in the not too distant past that parents used stories and
Get Measured Right! One of the first
tales from their ancestors to help create a moral foundation for their
children, develop self-esteem, and give perspective on personal heritage.
and most important things you can do
For many of us, our heroes were legendary forefathers who overcame great
is to have your measurements taken by a
hurdles either as an immigrant or freedman to make their way and build a life.
professional seamstress or tailor. Without
This age-old manner of educating children was commonplace long before books;
accurate measurements, you will fall
libraries and bookstores became so easily accessible or attainable. Over the years
into the trap of basing your purchasing
parents have segued this desire to pass on value systems and educate their chil-
decisions on sizes that haven’t been true
dren with a more globalized and inclusive approach.
since you graduated from high school or
While we strive to build self-esteem and create a sound moral foundation,
college! Your wardrobe is an investment.
many parents also want to raise their children to be tolerant and accepting of oth-
Take it seriously.
ers in order to become adults who can thrive in a world that is no longer segre-
The Right Fit and the Right
gated by race, religion, social castes or sexual preference.
Accessories. Present yourself with a clean,
Parents of today strive to prepare their offspring by creating a knowledge base
crisp look. Having the right accessories
that is all-encompassing; many begin the process of learning and developing an
will enable you to project the message
appreciation of learning while the child is in the womb so they become familiar
you wish to convey. By the way, it is a big
with the parent’s voice and the cadence of storytelling.
mistake to simply ignore appearance. No
After the child enters the world, emphasis is shifted to spending quality time
one ever became totally poised overnight.
interacting with the infant and continuing the reading time in hopes of creating a
It’s something we have to work on, and the
thirst for information and reading as a form of entertainment.
reward is worth every effort.
As a mother of three, I am certainly guilty of making books and the written
Measuring up means poise, personality
word a primary form of entertainment in my household. I am a product of a
and manners combined. Isn’t it amazing
mother who insisted that I read or write; as a result writing down my thoughts
that we know instantly when someone
became second nature. In conversations with other like-minded parents, I learned
has it? But what is it that they have? It’s
that we were similar in our desired outcomes if not by our approach.
not that they have more clothes or fewer
Elyse Russell of Suwanee, Georgia, is the mother of a toddler. She takes her
clothes. It’s not that they are so beautiful.
daughter to the library for story time to reinforce her love of reading. Elyse feels it
The way they present themselves makes
is important that she chooses books that allow her daughter to see children that
their personality stand out and be noticed.
look like her; stating “It is wonderful when she shows pride, self love, and confi-
dence from actually seeing herself in the images (little brown boys and girls doing
all of the things she is reading about).”
Instead of going to a movie try taking your child to the library and hanging out

Free Business Seminars there together.

at the Mechanicsville Branch Library

400 Formwalt Street, SW Atlanta, Georgia 30312
www.afplweb.com

How to Start a Business: Wednesday, April 23 • 6pm

Writing Your Business Plan: Wednesday, May 28 • 6pm
Business Cards & Brochures: Wednesday, June 18 • noon
Low Cost Business Ideas: Wednesday, June 25 • 6pm

Free…open to the public…reserve a seat by calling:

(404) 730-4779

12 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

Welcome to Atlanta’s Historic West End
By Nigel Robe rts
A
renaissance is taking place in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood.
Rundown Victorian houses all over the community are getting a
makeover. Young professionals are flocking to West End, where they
can enjoy an upscale lifestyle close to the downtown area. Despite all the changes,
the community’s vibrant Afro-centric culture remains strong.
Named for the chic London theatre district, West End first gained popularity
after the Civil War. With a railroad link to Atlanta in place, it became a desirable
suburban community by the late 1880s. Wealthy Atlantans wasted no time in
building lavish estates in West End, and the neighborhood flourished. In 1894,
West End officially became a part of Atlanta as a growing influx of families
moved to the area. By the 1930s, West End’s population climbed to about 22,000,
and dozens of thriving businesses clustered around the neighborhood’s downtown
area.
Racial diversity came to West End in the 1960s when increasing numbers of
African Americans associated with the Atlanta University Center moved into
the area. But with the influx of blacks and growing urbanization, longtime white
residents fled to Atlanta’s outer suburbs. That white flight resulted in West
End becoming 86 percent black by 1976. Many businesses also relocated to the
suburbs. Soon West End suffered the same plight that plagued other inner cities
in the 1970s.
In the midst of decline, business and political leaders worked toward revital-
izing the community. Their collaboration resulted in portions of Interstate 20
running through the neighborhood, the construction of Mall West End and a
MARTA train station in the community.
At the same time, community activists have also been hard at work. West End
Neighborhood Development (WEND) came into existence in 1978 to prevent
further deterioration and to restore the neighborhood’s attractiveness.
In a community newsletter, WEND’s vice president, Carl Nes, recently called
on all West Enders to join the group’s beautification committee. He tells each
resident to “spruce up” their own yard first. The group is also working with law
enforcement to improve the neighborhood’s image by eliminating panhandling at
the off ramps of I-20. “Refuse to let panhandlers be the gatekeepers to our neigh-
borhood at I-20,” Nes writes.
At a time when foreclosed houses are a common sight throughout the nation,
West End’s mortgage fraud committee is educating residents about predatory
lending. They’ve also organized home-buying seminars at the public library, where
experts provide pre-purchase counseling to prospective homebuyers.
“Many are looking to move here, not only because we are one of the last
affordable city neighborhoods with huge bungalows that boast coffer ceilings and
other attractive amenities,” comments Nia Knowles, a realtor who lives in West
End. “But also because we’re a neighborhood of friends. We know each other,
socialize with each other and support each other.”
In the midst of the renaissance, though, reminders of how far West End
fell linger: shabby strip malls dominated by cash checking establishments and
pawnshops. But those places seem to be on their way out as the neighborhood
gentrifies.
The Sky Lofts stand as a symbol of what the neighborhood is becoming.
Attracted by its town homes and lofts starting in the 150s, a strong middle class
presence has returned to West End. This upscale development is only one of
several new high-priced apartment developments in the neighborhood.
Many of these new residents gather at The Grounds Coffeehouse, located at
the Sky Lofts. Since opening its doors in November, The Grounds has been a
meeting place for young urban professionals with laptops. Carlos and Tamara
Watson, the café’s owners, have lived in the area since 1994 and say they love West
End. “The area was downtrodden when we first came here,” Tamara recalls. “But
now there’s a resurgence. We are starting to see the glory days of West End again.”
The couple refused to stand on the sidelines and watch as the resurgence went
on around them. They wanted to contribute something to the redevelopment of
the neighborhood. Not only is The Grounds becoming a popular spot for java
and free Wi-Fi, but it’s also a haven for artists and writers. With its spacious
interior and comfortable lounge seating, the café offers a wonderful venue for
artists to display their work and for poets to recite their verses.
Tamara predicts that West End will develop into a chic artsy community
over time—a combination of the Little Five Points, Grant Park, and Virginia
Highlands neighborhoods in Atlanta. “The Beltline project will make a huge
difference in that direction,” she adds.
Atlanta, a city whose growth and economic development depended on 19th
century railroad commerce, is spending $2.8 billion to develop the Beltline. It will
be a 22-mile loop that includes new green spaces, trails and a railway that encircles
and connects Atlanta’s neighborhoods. Project designers plan to construct bike
paths, new sidewalks and revamped parks in West End.
As ethnic diversity and wealth return to West End, it still holds to a culture
steeped in the Civil Rights Movement. Two of the main streets running through
West End are named in honor of civil rights giants Ralph David Abernathy and
Joseph Lowery. And throughout the neighborhood, Afro-centric clothing and
bookstores continue to be staples in the community.
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Nia Knowles sums up much of what West End has
to offer residents today--“Where else in Atlanta can I walk to parks, visit an Afro-American
gallery [Hammonds House], tour a mini mansion, hear a story [Wrens Nest], grab a white
hot chocolate while participating in an open mic and emailing house listing [The Grounds],
get New York-style pizza and shop at a mall—all within five minutes of my house?”
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Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 13
Becoming a Green Angel
By Li sa D. Wade, M.S., SLP-CCC

G
oing green is not easy. Learning how to Help your body to breathe
alter our lifestyle is what this column is
all about. My passion is for a healthier
at night by sleeping on a 400
environment. To this end, I have started with myself count or greater Egyptian
to save our planet. There are little things we all can sheets.
do each day that will make a tremendous difference
in our lifetime. Each issue, I will share tips, leads and
contacts that will enable us to breathe easier, sleep
better and enjoy a more wholesome and gratifying
life.
In his book, The Power of Now, author Eckhart
Tolle builds a roadmap for us to become present each
moment of our lives. On page 64 Tolle wrote, “Be
at least as interested in what goes on inside you as
what happens outside. If you get the inside right, the
outside will fall into place.” I think this is a great place
for us to begin. Let’s start to take a look at what we
are inhaling and ingesting on a daily basis and begin
to “tweak” ourselves for the better. Here are a few sug-
gestions to green our space;
1. Green the plate: At each meal look at the colors
of food on your plate. Begin to replace white food
colors for green, blue, violet, red, orange and yel-
low. Swap white rice for brown. Instead of a white
potatoes, trade out sweet potatoes and yams. Create a
plate that mimics colors of the rainbow. Start to incor-
porate a new vegetable and fruit into your diet each week.
2. Green the threads: Let the very next purchase of clothing be a blend of
natural fibers, whether it is cotton, wool or linen. Start to replace man-made
fabrics with items that had origins in the soil. Help your body to breathe at night
by sleeping on a 400 count or greater Egyptian sheets. Treat yourself to a lovely
pair of silk pajamas!
3. Green the house: How many plants do you own? Is every room colorfully
decorated with live flowers? When was the last time you fed and watered your
plants? Spring is here. What a wonderful time to welcome the change of the
season with a few new plants. Bring a little of the outdoors inside.
Roswell resident, Lisa D. Wade, is a Speech-Language Pathologist and environmentalist.
She lives with her dog Sofi, a black Labrador. Contact her at WelcomeAtlantaMagazine@
yahoo.com

Fresh Start with Lea O’Neal

A little bit homesick? Learning your way around I-285?
If you’re a newcomer making a fresh start in the A-T-L,
we’d like to hear from you for a possible feature story.
In 300 words or less tell us about your relocation and
settling-in experience.
Contact Lea at:
WelcomeAtlantaMagazine@yahoo.com

Welcome
Magazine

14 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

Plugging In Volunteering for Big Brothers Big Sisters of
Metro Atlanta, Inc can be fun and rewarding
Finding Community in Atlanta
By Esth e r Mich ael s and Mar y Bear

Y
ou’ve moved to Atlanta, and you feel like you were delivered by
Dorothy’s twister. Getting acclimated and feeling a part of such a busy
city can be confusing, chaotic, and downright frightening. Dorothy
followed the yellow brick road, a path that led her home.
That golden pathway in Atlanta is community service. Many of this city’s
strongest advocates and community legends are those who chose to move to
Atlanta for career opportunities, and through the intention to serve, stepped into
the most powerful network here: philanthropy.
Newcomers seeking to connect in Atlanta have found involvement in commu-
nity service is their path to outstanding opportunities. “By becoming involved you
see the needs of the community and you’re able to do something to address them”
says Claudia Cornejo Hamilton, who relocated here recently with her husband.
“Belonging to an organization in Atlanta, such as the Latin American Associa- Make Atlanta your home by finding a community organization that aligns
tion, helps you to connect to people with similar interests and opens career op- with your passion and interest. Start by going to United Way of Metropolitan
portunities as well.” Atlanta’s online database of organizations (www.unitedwayatlanta.org). Look in
Likewise, executives relocating to Atlanta are keenly aware the way to enter the the paper for local performing arts groups, or go to www.VolunteerMatch.org or
marketplace is through individual commitment. “Getting involved in community www.HandsOnAtlanta.org to be introduced to a not-for-profit that can utilize
service is the assumptive way to be known in Atlanta and to meet key leaders and your skills.
influencers,” says Ann W. Cramer, Director North America Corporate Com- Mary Bear & Esther Michaels are Founding Partners of Michaels, Bear, Alexander &
munity Relations for IBM. She emphasizes that volunteering can start at school, Woodward. With over 20 years of service, their firm guides clients through business trans-
places of worship, or local organizations. “Volunteering is the rent we pay for the formation for immediate and long term results. Contact them at: 404.929-8555 or info@
privilege of being part of Metro Atlanta.” MBAW.com

CLICK
Ten Truths for Building
Extraordinary Relationships
Does the thought of networking make you cringe? Do
you feel alone, not knowing what to do or say?
Would you like to walk into a room and instantly know
how to connect?
In CLICK: Ten Truths for Building Extraordinary Relation-
ships (McGraw-Hill; January 2008; Hardcover: $24.95),
George C. Fraser, one of the foremost authorities on
relationship building, details ten simple and proven
principles that will allow people to tap into the richest
resource on the planet – other people – no matter how
hard it’s been in the past to do so. Readers will be able to apply these skills to
all areas of their lives – to create an extraordinary marriage, lifelong friendships,
or powerful and enriching business relationships.
So what is “click”? Fraser insists that networking is just the beginning, connect-
ing takes relationships to the next level, and clicking is when at least two people
add a special value to each other and create synergy. It is the ultimate goal of the
networking process – to create a win-win.
Fraser, over the last 25 years, has built one of the largest and most influential
networks in America using his click formula. He’s a sought-after speaker and
expert on relationship building, appearing in high-profile media outlets (including
New York Times, USA Today and on CNN and PBS), and giving more than 125
keynote addresses per year. The Ten Truths that he outlines in CLICK are based
on the knowledge he’s gained while studying and teaching networking.

Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 15

Sex in the New City
By Aaron Tur peau, Ph.D.

W
elcome to Atlanta! You have arrived in one of the hippest and most longevity. One recent study has shown that men who have three or more orgasms
exciting cities in the world. Atlanta is definitely the place to be, but a week are actually 50 percent less likely to die form coronary heart disease.
the stress level of moving falls right below losing a loved one. Folks Even though you are tempted to put sex on the back burner or on the bottom
are going crazy trying to find a job, a house, a school to put their kids in...and of your list of things to do today, make sure you give it more priority than
of course finding their way around and usual during this stressful time. Use this
through Atlanta traffic. opportunity to do something exciting
This column will be on relationships in your sex lives. One example would
in regard to newcomers relocating to be to “break in” each room. As you are
Atlanta. We will be focusing on the unpacking or setting up your rooms,
relationship part of keeping the romance visualize how you will seduce your spouse
together—”dating” each other and in each room. Then when the time is
keeping the family strong. These are right, surprise him or her with the new
the kinds of family
Virtualvalues “Dr. Turpeau
Properties Logo adventure.
Speaks” will discuss in each column.
Green is Pantone 343 My prescription for you will not only
Even though movingiscan
Yellow be a very117
Pantone reduce your stress but bring you closer
stressful experience, you and your spouse together. So make sure you save enough
have the power in your relationship to time and energy to treat each other with
reduce this stress dramatically. How? this powerful stress reduction therapy.
Not through medication, but through You’ll be glad you did.
a healing exercise that I have seen help Dr. Aaron Turpeau is a Licensed Profes-
many people cope with stressful times. In sional Counselor in Atlanta. For additional
this issue I am prescribing a healthy dose information about his seminar and counseling
of SEX. services you may contact him at 678-522-6548
Sexual activity has been proven to or www.drturpeau.com.
reduce stress, cure headaches and increase

It’s All About My Clients!

Make Me Your Realtor, I Will Find or Sell Your Home!

CHERYL HAREWOOD
ABR, SRS, Realtor®

6650 Sugarloaf Parkway

Duluth, GA 30097
Direct Line: 678 457-7436
Office: 770 495-5050
Fax: 770 978-8573
cherylhomes@cmhrealty.com
www.cmhrealty.com

16 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

First Sip of Wine
by C aiphia Mor row

First Sip of Wine Join Us for

M
y first experience with wine
began with that first sip of
• Ste. Michelle Eroica Ries- Complimentary
ling 2006, Columbia Valley,
a white wine. It was while Washington Wine Tastings
living in Sacramento, California, that
I went on a tour of Napa Valley that
• St. Supery Sauvignon Blanc 2006, EVERY Saturday!
Napa Valley, California
changed my perception of the grape
forever. • Robert Mondavi Napa Valley
Chardonnay 2005, Napa Valley,
The first vineyard I visited was Robert
California
Mondavi. The visitor’s courtyard was
clean and pristine, and on the left, the
vines grew in straight lines, like soldiers at attention. I walked into the tasting
room and looked around in awe. I was presented with a tasting menu listing
several wine selections to chose from, all available by the glass for a small fee.
The employees of Mondavi, as with most vineyard tasting rooms, were there to
assist in making a selection. The first question asked of me was about my current
wine preference. I indicated that I was new to wine but liked whites and so my
education of wines began with the Rieslings, Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays
that I sampled.
I was given a summary of each type of wine I tasted. Rieslings have high sugar
content, are sweet, and smell of floral and citrus. Chardonnays have flavors of
vanilla, caramel, apple, oak and can be complex. This short lesson about wine and 1295 W. Spring Street, Suite 100, Smyrna, GA 30080
770-437-1753
grapes sparked something in me just as the wine I tasted excited my pallet. www.winecellars.com
I have broadened my wine repertoire since that first tasting and now enjoy the
big, lush, berry complexities of red wine. I also continued to expand my knowl-
edge of wine by attending wine tastings, taking wine classes and reading any
books or magazines on wine.
Tantalize your taste buds and try something new. If you visit a fine wine and
spirit store, there will usually be someone wine savvy who can provide suggestions.
Or, if you are lucky enough to dine at a restaurant with an on-site sommelier, they
would be happy to assist you with a selection to compliment your meal.

WINE SERIES CALENDAR

Thursdays, 6:30 pm Thursday Wine Tastings in April
May 24, 2:00 pm Wine Stroll wine/food sampling
$25. in advance/ $35. day of event
June 14, 2 & 6:00 pm Summer Splash Picnic Wines
Complimentary wine tasting
Wine Cellars, Inc. • 770.437.1753 • www.winecellars.com

To Advertise in Welcome
Magazine’s Summer Issue
featuring Tony Morrow, the Pecan Restaurant
and The National Black Arts Festival 2008
contact: Brian Lewis, Advertising & Sales Director

678-687-1876
brianlewis678@yahoo.com

Welcome
Magazine

Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 17

DIRECTORY
At Your Service Resource Directory
ARTIST FLOOR CARE MORTGAGE COMPANY ATLANTA VOICE Carolyn E. Robinson, ABR CBR
Stacey Brown Robert L. Johnson, Owner Tanya Blanchard, Loan Officer Yaminah Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief Prudential Georgia Realty
Fine Art by Stacey Brown MasterPlan Floor Care Community Mortgage Service 404.524.6424 770.855.2353 or 770.667.0661
Original art on glass Specialist, Inc. tanyab@communitymortgage.com Yahmad@theAtlantaVoice.com crobinsonrealtor@comcast.net
404.753.3032 678.485.3768 or 770.410.4950 x 304 / 770.851.9334 www.theatlantavoice.com www.carolynerobinson.com
www.sbrownart.com 770.482.6225 www.communitymortgage.com
mstrplan@bellsouth.net AZIZAH Charles E. Williams
ARCHITECT Brigitte Killings, Branch Manager Tayyibah Taylor, Publisher Elexis Properties
Joseph W. Robinson Sr. FLORIST Countrywide Home Loans 1.877.929.4924 404.755.6602
JW Robinson & Associates, Inc. Nathaniel Zeigler Mortgage finance/ purchases/ www.aziahmagazine.com www.elexisproperties.com
404.753.4129 Florist & Gift Baskets refinances
www.jwrobinson.com 404. 758.2200 404.494.4251 BarberShop DIGEST Oluyemi Yikealo
zeiglernita@aol.com brigitte.killings@countrywide.com Brian Egeston, Publisher Fowler Realty Associates
AUTOMOBILE MECHANIC shops@barbershopdigest.com 404.505.9700
Johnny Wellons, Sr., owner FUNERAL HOME MUSEUMS www.AtlantaReferral.com
Wellons Auto Service Willie A. Watkins, Owner Myra Anderson-Fuller, Director BOOKING MATTERS
ASE Certified-35 yrs in business Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home Hammond’s House Galleries Shunda Leigh, Editor-in-Chief RESTAURANTS-WEST END
2 Fairburn Road @ MLK, Jr. Dr. 404.758.1731 and Resource Center for 770.808.2177 Chanterelle’s Cafe
Atlanta, Georgia 30331 www.williewatkins.com African American Art bookingmatters@yahoo.com 646 Evans Street, SW
404.691.5999 or 404.691.5901 404.612.0500 404.758.0909
GRAPHIC DESIGN www.hammondshouse.org CULTURED LIVING
BANKING O. Makeba Waddy, Owner Andrea A. Coleman, Publisher Soul Vegetarian
George Andrews, President O. Makeba Designs Lain Shakespeare, Director 404.629.9962 879 Ralph David Abernathy
Capitol City Bank & Trust 404. 207.4889 The Wren’s Nest 404.752.5194
Company www.omakeba-designs.com 404.753.7735 ON COMMOND GROUND
Main Office www.wrensnestonline.com Glenn & Valerie Morgan, SUMMER CAMP
562 Lee Street Atlanta 30310 Tracy Stalling Publishers James “Sgt. Scuba” Gilchrist,
(404) 752-6067 Stalling Design PAYROLL SERVICE 678.526.1910 Director
www.CaptiolCityBank.com 678.797.9672 Melinda DeCoste editor@ocgnews.com Sgt. Scuba Summer Camp
stallit@bellsouth.net Automatic Data Processing Youth Aquatic Program
BEAUTY/ COSMETICS (404) 964-8490 OUR TOWN 678.612.9974
Florence Woods-Busha HARDWARE STORE www.sbs.adp.com Linda Demery/Lori McLinden, info@sgtscuba.org
Representative Keith Clarke, Manager Publishers www.sgtscuba.org
Mary Kay Cosmetics West End Ace Hardware PRINTER 678-337-7844
Age fighting products that work! 404.755.5599 Jamel Hendrix, Owner info@ourtownmonthly.com Jo Roberson Edwards. Director
678.545-1676 www.acehardware.com 48 Hour Printers www.ourtownmonthly.com Camp Village Summer Camp
florencebusha@marykay.com 404.755.7778 404.349.0122
HEALTH CARE SERVICES www.48hrprinters.net OUR WEST END NEWSLETTER info@campvillage.com
CHURCH Ms. Charlie Storey Michael Mumper, Publisher www.campvillage.com
Olu Brown, Minister AmeriPlan Health Care Ralph Gourdine, Owner 404.444.4029
Impact Church providing discounts on: West End Print Shop www.cvcatlanta.org TAX SERVICE
404.758.7310 dental, vision, prescription, 404.207.1580 Dawnell Patton
chiropractic, and physician care www.westendprintshop.com ROLLING OUT URBAN STYLE Individual Tax Return Services
CLEANING SERVICE 770.719.5111 WEEKLY 770.715.5275
Ron Montgomery www.mybenefitsplus.com/csto- PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Munson Steed, Publisher Dpatton1020@yahoo.com
CleanNet, Inc. reybalam Marsha Thomas, Owner 404.635.1313
Professional Commercial Cleaning Marsha Tees & Things www.rollingout.com TRAINING
770.874.0467 HOME IMPROVEMENTS Tee shirts-custom products Ms. Charlie Storey
ronmont45@yahoo.com John Pavlin 404.822.4480 WELCOME MAGAZINE Commercial Financing/
All-American Construction marshats@charter.net Brian Lewis, Sales Director Investment Training
COMMUNICATIONS 404.456.4118 678.687.1876 770.719.5111
Patrick Carley pavlinjohn@gmail.com PUBLICATIONS brianlewis678@yahoo.com address-charliestorey@hotmail.
Precedent Technologies NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES com
770.506.7101 INVITATIONS & STATIONERY ATLANTA DAILY WORLD REAL ESTATE
www.precedent-tech.com Lisa R. Zachery, owner M. Alexis Scott, Publisher Cheryl Harewood, ABR, SRS, TRAVEL
Papered Wonders, Inc. 404.659.1110 Realtor Ruby Cade, Owner
EVENT PRODUCTION 678.384.1500 publisher@atlantadailyworld.com Virtual Properties Realty RCADE Travels
T. Nicole Browne www.paperedwonders.com www.atlantadailyworld.com 678.457.7436 or 770.495.5050 Vacation Consultants
Eventfull Events cherylhomes@cmhrealty.com 678.315.0323
Wedding & party planner LEGAL SERVICES ATLANTA HERITAGE GUIDE www.cmhrealty.com missruby@rcadetravels.com
404.723.1752 Sonja Andrews, Attorney-at-Law Julie Minear, Publisher
tnbrowne@mail.com Andrews Law Firm 404.249.1750 Debra Hughes-Montgomery, Suzette Holmes, Owner
770.968.7380 www.atlantaheritage.com Broker Sophisticated Travel
FINANCIAL PLANNING/ www.theandrewsfirm.com American Property Specialists 770.484-5581
Insurance & Investments ATLANTA INQUIRER Real Estate and Property sophisticatedtravel@yahoo.com
Sheron Banks MEDICAL CENTER John B. Smith, Jr., Publisher Management
Ameriprise Financial Merry Ford 404.523.6086 678.528.0344 VITAMINS
770.645.1996 x 101 West End Medical Centers, Inc. news@atlinq.com aps@ApsAtlanta.com Suma Om
sheron.k.banks@ampf.com 404.752.1400 Gingko Tree Vitamins
www.wemc.org ATLANTA TRIBUNE, The Magazine T. J. Locke, Broker 404.934.9000
William T. Parker, CLU ChFC Patricia Lottier, Publisher Apollo Associates Realty sunaom@msn.com
ABG Financial Services, Inc. 770.587.0501 404.753.7373
770.850.0808 info@atlantatribune.com www.apolloassociatesrealty.com
wparker@abgfinancial.com www.atlantatribune.com

18 Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION!

Mary Norwood For Mayor
A c c o u n t a b i l i t y
a n C o u n t O n !
Yo u C

Dear Neighbors,
People all over the City have asked me to run for Mayor, and I am
asking for your support and for your endorsement, too. I hope I
can count on you. You can count on me.

You can count on me to work for your neighborhood.

You can count on me to fight crime and drugs.

You can count on me to bring all Atlantans into the discussion.

You can count on me to protect our greenspaces.

You can count on me to improve the City services you pay for with your taxes.

You can count on me to balance the City’s books, openly and accurately.

You can count on me to listen.

That’s accountability you can count on.

Tell me about the issues that matter to you. You can always phone me at home. My home number is
404-237-3774. You can contact me at my website, www.marynorwoodformayor.com or email me at
Mary@marynorwoodformayor.com. Join up. Together we’re a great team!

Keep in touch.
Mary Norwood

www.MaryNorwoodForMayor.com 404 – Mayor09

P a i d f o r b y t h e M a r y N o r w o o d f o r M a y o r E x p l o r a t o r y C o m m i t t e e , 3 3 7 1 H a b e r s h a m R o a d N W, A t l a n t a , G A 3 0 3 0 5 .

Welcome Magazine | April 2008 PREMIER EDITION! 19

 Historic College Park’s Newest Fine Dining Restaurant
Located minutes from airport area hotels, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Georgia International
Convention Center and Fort McPherson. The Pecan fuses Classic Southern Cuisine with modern eclectic
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Lunch Dinner Brunch

Tuesday-Friday Tuesday-Saturday Sunday
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pecanbeta.indd 1 8/9/2006 12:54:07 PM