North Fulton Family Life 11-15 by Family Life Magazines

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Contents

November 2015

VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 4

[20-22]

20-22 On the Cover:

Audio Intersection

24-29

Light Up the Season Holiday Guide

[24-29]

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

.......................... Perspective

............................. Calendar

........................ Book Review

....................... Business Life

................... Senator Speaks

.................... Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Minute

......................... Artist Profile

............................ Quotables

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Publisher’s Perspective

Always Count

ometimes, I have to admit that blessings go unaccounted for in my life and may go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle. Even if for a short time they do, I am usually reminded of how wonderful it is that even the smallest of blessings can be used as a daily reminder to be thankful. It’s about the little things, little things that add up to greater things. Just the other day, I was picking up laundry to do a load of darks; my arms were full, and I was fumbling around trying to keep from dropping socks. Then, there on the floor was the last piece, a burgundy towel, and it was large enough to hold everything together. That may sound like just a coincidence to some, but to me, it was a tiny reminder of how good life really is, one moment at a time. Of course, we each have had great blessings in our life, such as our self, a friend or a relative conquering cancer, injury, a near death event or other malady that was just miraculous. We may, in fact, have a happy home with vibrant children, a good job and a comfortable lifestyle that gives us reason to give thanks. Some of us could be struggling with an array of troublesome things in our day-to-day lives, in spite of what the world sees as “good enough,” and still recognize that the feeling of the sunshine on our skin, the sound of a guitar, or sharing a laugh with a friend is indeed a gift, and we feel blessed. There’s really no trick to being thankful beyond the simple acknowledgement of how blessed each and every one of us truly is in our daily lives. By giving thanks, we give back to Him from which our blessings flow. Let us make sure each blessing, however small, counts by being thankful and expressing our gratitude. May God continue to grow in you every day, through blessings in your life and thanksgiving in your heart.

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITORIAL Julie Senger Editor@FamilyLifePublications.com ART Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS State Senator John Albers, Mayor Mike Bodker, Kathleen Boehmig, Susan Casella, Michael Consoli, Natalie Del Valle, Lisa Ethridge, Laura Green, Catherine Groves, Kevin Head, Marianna Ilina, Chris Miller, Vishant Nath, Christy Noll, Nick Roper, Mark Tolbert, Keely Woodford

Family Life Publishing Group Inc. 150 North Street, Suite A Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095

FamilyLifePublications.com FamilyLifePublications North Fulton Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher, and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. North Fulton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. AS

E R EC Y C LE

PLE

Blessings

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

M AG A ZI

How to Have a

PURPLE MARRIAGE By Kevin Head, Ph.D. Even though the Presidential election is a year away, we still see the red and blue maps of our country on television. These maps look patriotic with lots of red and blue, but they actually show how politically divided we are as a nation. Those blue/red maps cause me to think about marriage. As a minister and pastoral counselor, I’ve seen marriages that are also lots of red and blue. I have talked with couples whose marriage is as divided as those political maps. I wonder--is there a common thread between our divided country and troubled marriages? Obviously, this is a complex question, but for me, the similar issue is how we resolve conflict. In politics, we get into

trouble when people strive for power and control instead of understanding. In politics, resolving issues becomes difficult when we blame and accuse instead of listening. In politics, solutions rarely happen when we block vital information so we can “win” the argument. The reality is we could substitute the word “marriage” for “politics” in each of the above sentences. So how can we resolve conflict in our marriages? Sherrod Miller teaches that the ideal way to resolve conflict in marriage is COLLABORATION. Collaboration happens when we listen to each other, empower one another, and embrace goals we share. When we collaborate, we create new outcomes by inventing “win/win” scenarios. Essentially, when we collaborate in our marriages, we seek to

truly understand each other, and work toward agreeable solutions that make everyone feel good. Collaboration is not compromise, where each person gains something and loses something. Collaboration is incorporating our differences to create new and exciting outcomes to common issues. One day, I’d love to look at a political map and see purple instead of red and blue. It would be fantastic if we could mix all our red and all our blue together for a purple United States of America. Honestly, I don’t know that it can happen in our country. But the good news is this: you can have a purple marriage! How? It’s one word: COLLABORATION. Blessings!

Dr. Kevin Head is interim pastor of First Baptist Roswell. 770-587-6980. KHead@FBRoswell.org

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Calendar NOVEMBER

5-22

Romeo & Juliet at Georgia Ensemble Theatre — Georgia Ensemble Theatre proudly presents a big, bold and surprising take on the beautiful love story of Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-641-1260. FallInNorthFulton.com

First Friday Artwalk — Eight galleries of the vibrant Roswell Art District open their doors for Art Walk! A selfguided, walkable tour and a trolley is also available. 6:00-9:00 pm, Canton Street and Oak Street areas, Roswell. FallInNorthFulton.com

4th Annual Chili Cook-Off — Get your spoons ready to taste test chili made by professional chefs and amateur cooks. Enjoy family activities throughout the afternoon. $20 fee at the gate includes a handmade ceramic bowl. 1:00-3:00 pm, Leita Thompson Park, 1355 Woodstock Road, Roswell. FallInNorthFulton.com

7-8

Fall Colors River Tour — Join us on our Fall Colors River Tour as we take in the yellows, reds and oranges of the trees before they fade into winter. We’ll paddle quietly along the Chattahoochee River. Ages 6-Adult. 9:00 am-Noon and 3:00-6:00 pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center. 770-9922055 x237. VisitRoswellGa.com

13-14

Milton Literary Festival Join us for keynotes

y p p Ha ksgiving n a h T

from Milton’s own, Karen White, New York Times best-selling author of The Sound of Glass and Ray Atkins, best-selling author of Sweetwater Blues. There will also be many other lectures, panels and workshop sessions with several other professional writers and published authors. Noon, Downtown Crabapple. CityOfMiltonGA.us/ Events/348/Milton-Literary-Festival/

Race to Rally Hope 5k — The 6th Annual Race to Rally Hope benefits the Kiddos’ Clubhouse Foundation, a charitable organization that provides scholarships to Georgia families who are not able to secure funding for therapeutic services and/or equipment for their children with special needs. Pack your lawn chairs to stay after the race, because there will be inflatables, a mobile video game truck, a DJ and food & beer trucks for the block party. 5:30-10:00pm, 50 Milton Avenue, Downtown Alpharetta.

14 & 28

Open Hearth Cooking and Living History at Smith Plantation — Living history interpreter and open hearth cooking expert, Clarissa Clifton, will demonstrate making traditional southern food over the open flame in the Cook House on the historic grounds of Smith Plantation. 10:00 am-2:00 pm, Smith Plantation, Cook House, 935 Alpharetta Street, Roswell. RoswellGov.com

Backyard Campout — The great outdoors is beckoning. Come take advantage of a family camp out that is close to home. Bring a picnic with all of the fixings, take photos of our nonreleasable animals on our wildlife walk, enjoy a campfire with marshmallows, and enjoy our 127-acre nirvana in the middle of metropolitan Atlanta. It’s a family fun event that will provide stories for years. $50 general public families/$35 CNC member families (price per tent); registration required by November 18. 5:00 pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center. 770-992-2055 x237. VisitRoswellGa.com

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

LIBRARY EVENTS AFPLS.org ALPHARETTA

238 Canton St., Alpharetta, 770-740-2425

Autrey Mill Unplugged Concert An eclectic selection of some of the best performers in the Atlanta area! Intimate concerts performed inside the Old Warsaw Church. Each evening begins in the Summerour House with a pre-concert gathering, complimentary light refreshments, plus wine and beer available for purchase. 7:00 pm, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek. 678366-3511. AutreyMill.org/performances. htm#Register

Atlanta Pizza Wars — A fun day of competition, great pizzas, beer garden, kids activities and pet friendly too! 10:00 am-4:00 pm, Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11915 Wills Road, Alpharetta. AwesomeAlpharetta. com

DECEMBER

First Friday Art Walk — Take a stroll through the Art District in Historic Roswell. Follow a walking map to tour eight downtown galleries. 1065 Canton Street, Downtown Roswell. RoswellGov.com

Johns Creek Founders Day Parade Since its inception (Dec. 2007), the parade has grown to more than 80 units and thousands of participants, including Shriner clowns, local high school clubs and bands, and colorful floats from area businesses, organizations and neighborhoods. 10:00 am, State Bridge between Kimball Bridge & West Morton Roads, Johns Creek. 678-512-3351. JohnsCreekGa.gov

For Holiday Events see pages 24 - 29

MILTON

855 Mayfield Road, Milton, 404-613-4402

NORTHEAST/SPRUILL OAKS

OCEE

5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, 770-360-8897

ROSWELL

115 Norcross Street, Roswell, 770-640-3075

EAST ROSWELL

9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek, 770-360-8820

2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, 404-613-4050

Johns Creek Art Center “Try It” Watercolors November 7, 10:00-11:30 am, and 12:00-1:30 pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks First session: teens 12-16, Second session: teens and adults ages 16 and older. Registration required. Limit of 15 for each class. Sponsored by the Friends of the Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library.

SAT/ACT Practice Test November 15, 2:00 pm, Alpharetta Kaplan Test Prep’s combo test includes questions from both the SAT and ACT. The practice test gives students a chance to experience both tests and use that experience to focus in areas that may need improvement. Bring two #2 pencils and a calculator. Space is limited. Reservations recommended.

ACT/SAT Combo Practice Exam November 14, 10:30 am, Ocee Kaplan’s free SAT/ACT combo test to experience each section of the new SAT and ACT. Receive a comprehensive analysis of your performance on both tests, and determine in a single test experience which exam is right for you.

We’re Thankful! Storytime November 17, 10:30 am, Milton Come and enjoy a themed storytime. Ages 0-5.

Johns Creek Poetry Group Fall Festival November 14, 10:15 am-1:30 pm, with light lunch after 11:30 am, Northeast/ Spruill Oaks Poet, Michelle Castelberry, main speaker, Lynn Alexander, managing editor, Atlanta Review. Open mic for all members. Members’ books on sale. Sponsored by The Friends of the Northeast/ Spruill Oaks Library. Atlanta Authors Presents: Dianna Love November 14, 2:00 pm, Roswell Dianna Love will discuss Deceptive Treasures, a romance that is part of the Slye Temp series. Love is a New York Times bestselling author, who has written many various kinds of romances. Journey to Literacy November 14, 3:00 pm, East Roswell Kids will hear a story, complete a fun craft project and receive a copy of the book presented in the program. Presented by the Junior League of Atlanta. Ages 3-8. Registration is required.

The Foundation Center’s “How to Start a Nonprofit Class” November 17, 6:00-8:00 pm, Milton Learn the process of starting a nonprofit organization, step-by-step. Adults. Winter Crafts November 18, 2:00 pm, Roswell Roswell artist, Sharon Crumley, will lead a workshop on making wintertime crafts. Books and Brushes Art Program November 18 and December 9, 6:00 pm, Ocee This is a free program, but pre-registration is required. Class is limited to 15 participants. Grades 2 to 5. No younger siblings please. Register at JohnsCreekArts.org or 770-623-8448. Old Stories of the Cherokee November 21, 1:00 pm, Alpharetta Come celebrate Native American Heritage Month and listen to old stories of the Cherokee, as told by Lloyd Arneach, an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who was born and reared on the Cherokee Reservation in Cherokee, North Carolina. Please join us for this wonderful event. All ages.

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Book Review BY CATHERINE GROVES

Meet Betsy, Tacy, and Tib! Betsy, Tacy and Tib became friends when they were very young. Betsy and Tacy lived across the street from each other, and Tib lived in the chocolate covered house. They had many fun adventures together. If it sounds as if I’m describing children’s books, it’s because I am. Maud Hart Lovelace wrote the first four Betsy-Tacy books for the younger generation. Based on her own life and lives of her family and friends growing up, Maud decided to continue the story of Betsy through high school and beyond. This is a series of books that grows with you. Born in the late 1800’s, Betsy is raised in a home that is clearly not typical for that time period. Betsy’s parents encouraged their daughters to seek further education and dared them to dream. Betsy begins writing as a young child and continues to write throughout high school. Her parents let her travel as a young lady to help her become a better writer, and she continues to write as a married woman. The “Betsy books” (as I call them) are some of the dearest, most heartwarming books of all time. These books are known for their characters. For example, her father was notorious for putting on the coffee pot in times of stress. Betsy’s older sister, Julia, was a beautiful opera singer, and her younger sister, Margaret, was nicknamed “The Persian Princess.” Tacy and Tib remain Betsy’s best friends (as in Maud’s real life) throughout her childhood and after she’s married. Tacy is sweet, loyal and doesn’t care about boys. Tib is tiny, dolllike and extremely practical. Three is never a crowd for this inseparable trio. And then there’s Joe… Betsy meets Joe the summer before her freshman year in high school, and he remains a vital part of this entire series. It matters not your age or gender; these books by Maud Hart Lovelace are timeless. The Betsy-Tacy collection can be found in many major bookstores and on Amazon. There are ten books in the series.

Catherine Groves is an avid reader and collects books, with a library of over 5,000. She is a publisher of two neighborhood magazines and is completing her first book of poetry.

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Family Volunteer Opportunities!

By Christy Noll service projects for kids and teens in There are many ways for metro Atlanta. They also host monthly adults to volunteer locally, but the charities community service projects, where kids that offer opportunities for our children can volunteer and learn about nonprofit can be harder to find. Several local charities organizations and their missions to offer ways we can engage our children improve our community. Pebble Tossers in volunteer work to help teach them matches the interests of the children with the importance of giving back and also the needs of the community. the value of sharing our time with others who may be less fortunate. Here are a few Flood Student Community Missions organizations that offer such opportunities (FloodStudentMissions.org) offers a for our youth: consistent, Christ-centered ministry that allows students to lead other students in Pebble Tossers (PebbleTossers.com) is serving by reaching out in their schools an organization that helps families get kids and communities. Flood provides local involved with the community. Pebble mission opportunities that help empower Tossers engages kids with age-appropriate generations of students who experience community service. Starting a ripple of Jesus by loving, serving and leading giving with youth and teens at an early others. Flood has core values that they age develops life-long volunteers and follow, which include: love radically, strong leaders. Created in 2008 by two serve humbly, lead strongly, support fully Atlanta women, Pebble Tossers Inc. is and saturate totally. Flood has school a nonprofit youth service organization chapters with leaders who help facilitate and family volunteering resource that volunteer opportunities. makes it easy to find fun, age-appropriate

Act Together Ministries (ActTogetherMinistries.org) offers volunteer opportunities for kids at their Thanksgiving feast for local families in need. Act Together Ministries is a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charity in north metro Atlanta. I hope the above ideas have spurred thought on ways to get your family involved in giving back and instilling your children with a passion for helping others. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Christy Noll is founder of AlpharettaMoms.org, a resource that connects North Fulton families with community organizations, programs and events.

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Common Core and Critical Thinking:

Helping Your Child Develop This Important Skill By Mark Tolbert

The Common Core State Standards are intended to help students prepare for college and the working world, where they must think critically and apply what they learn in the classroom to the real world. These standards affect all math and English/language arts areas and emphasize comprehension and understanding rather than just memorization. The standards are meant to strengthen students’ ability to think, analyze, comprehend, defend and support ideas. There are many ways you can help your student build critical thinking skills: Ask your child to analyze what he reads—whether it’s newspaper or magazine articles or fiction stories and books. Ask questions about the main idea of the story: What is the author’s purpose (to entertain or persuade, etc.)? Is it opinion or fact, and how can you tell? What clues give a story’s plot and main idea? Ask your child how she feels about readings and why. Why does she enjoy a story or not? Why does she think a certain event or point is the most important in a passage or story? Why does she like certain characters? When using measurement in math homework, ask your child how and where measurements are used in life. As your child completes math problems, have him explain how he reached an answer, and why he thinks that approach makes sense. When using graphs in homework, ask your child to explain the graph to you. Also, ask your child why graphs make it easier to represent data, and ask how data might be collected and shown in a different way. Have your child talk you through the information provided in math problems, and explain how to use the information to solve problems, as well as what information might be missing. Encourage your child to notice patterns in the real world, and point out the use of fractions in daily life. Talk with your child’s teacher about how he or she can develop higher level thinking skills. Finally, throughout daily life, encourage your child to think, reflect, make decisions and develop opinions.

Mark Tolbert is executive director of Huntington Learning Center in Alpharetta. 678-240-9221. Alpharetta.HungtingtonHelps.com

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Business Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dental Village, a pediatric dental practice, opened its

Ribbon Cutting

doors in Roswell (Willeo Road and Highway 120). It serves the Fulton, Cobb and Cherokee County communities. Owner, Dr. Priya Madhiwala, designed the practice to reflect her Kenyan upbringing and then gave it a bit of a modern twist. The staff at CDV strives to foster a fun and nurturing environment to provide young patients with a positive experience, and assure parents that their children are in good hands. Dr. Priya is a Harvard graduate and is board certified. CDV welcomes parents to accompany their children into the dental exam rooms. Dr. Priya would love to introduce herself in person, and welcome you to her practice.

Glow Anti-aging Center and Medical Spa is for those clients that want to not only feel better, but also look younger. They offer bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and innovative therapies for womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellness issues. The center also offers signature skin care options, medical massage, permanent makeup, various laser treatments, weight loss and more.

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Senator Speaks

By Senator John Albers

fathers made, we are able to live in a land marked by providence, liberty and abounding opportunity. 239 years have come and gone since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Along with the Constitution, these documents are the foundation of America, which are as important today as they were over 200 years ago. I’m thankful for the divine guidance given to the framers. We are also thankful for the many generations of military men and women who have worked tirelessly to preserve our great republic. Without their boundless service, we would not enjoy the freedom and great prosperity that we do today. Earlier this year marked the 14th anniversary of September 11th, a day that will never be routine, and we should forever remember and hold sacred. We will never forget. For those who seek to bring evil and terror into this world, the nation stands united to defend itself from all enemies, foreign and domestic. On September 11, 2001, 2,977 people died. Of the fallen were 343 firefighters and 72 law enforcement officers. Their actions and sacrifices saved thousands, and they are forever enshrined as American heroes. Our first responders keep us safe, and respond in our time of need. I am thankful for my fellow firefighters and police officers. Police officers have come under increased attacks recently, and we need to show them our support. All lives matter!

his Thanksgiving, we have much to be thankful for as fellow Georgians and citizens of this great nation. It’s easy to take for granted the many blessings we have in our lives. Kari and I lost many good friends and family this year to heaven. Many times, it takes a tragedy for all of us to truly appreciate our family, friends and community. As I reflect on my abundance of Thanksgiving, I am both humbled and grateful. As we gather together to celebrate this holiday season with family and friends, let us remember those who are less fortunate by sharing our time and resources with those in need. It can be as simple as donating clothes, food and furniture or volunteering at one of our many wonderful charities. The Albers make it a family priority to be generous, as our pastor, Dr. Mike Long says, “with our time, talents, gifts, service and witness.” It’s important to take a moment and reflect upon our many blessings. Because of the many sacrifices that our founding

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Whenever we travel around town or across the country, I go out of my way to simply say “thank you” to all those who serve us in uniform. I am also very grateful for my boys, Will and Ryan, my wonderful wife, Kari, and our extended family. As 2015 draws to a close, we ask God for His continued protection of this great state, this wonderful country, and thank Him for our many blessings. From the Albers family to yours, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the State and Local Government Operations Committee. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of North Fulton and Cherokee counties. 404-463-8055. John.Albers@Senate.Ga.Gov.

By Laura Green Contrary to popular belief, neither tile nor grout (even sealed) is waterproof. In a standard shower application, a pan liner is used to block moisture. The pan liner used does not allow for tile to be applied directly to it, so a bed of mortar is used and then the tile is placed on this bed. Because the water infiltrates through this bed, it can remain saturated with moisture, especially if the mortar weep holes become clogged or the pre-slope wasn’t installed properly. With this moisture saturation, the

possibility of mold and efflorescence, or cosmetic staining on the tile, increases tremendously. Most new construction homes only carry a one year warranty, and unfortunately, this problem may take a little longer than that to appear. We see many houses where the homeowner wants to change the tile in their shower, not because they want to change the size, shape or style, but because there is a bad smell and mold growing throughout. There is a German engineered shower system called Schluter, which has a family of products that creates a “sealed” environment that claims to be even more than waterproof; it’s vapor proof. The beauty of the system is that it doesn’t allow moisture to permeate into the

mortar bed or solid backing, so there is no chance of mildew growing there. The system allows only the tile and grout to become wet when showering, which is able to dry completely between uses. The system also eliminates leaks, reduces the potential for efflorescence and mold growth in the system, dramatically reduces total installation time and makes shower installation much easier, because it is light-weight in nature. The product may cost a little more, but having a mold-free shower is worth every penny!

Laura Green is the owner at Green Basements & Remodeling, LLC. 836 N Atlanta Street, Roswell. 678-4455533. GreenBasements.com

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Community Feature Chamber Announces 2015 Small Business Person and Nonprofit Leader of the Year The 2015 Small Business Person of the Year Award was awarded to Lisa Machado, Visiting Angels. Lisa is passionate and committed to providing quality of life for seniors, allowing them to be as independent as possible. As an owner, Lisa manages a dedicated and compassionate office and caregiving staff. They provide care that is highly customized, recognizing that each and every care recipient is different. The Chamber recognized her as a leader committed to providing the best possible care and peace of mind to the families they serve. The Nonprofit Leader of the Year Award was awarded to Jennifer Arnold, founder of Canine Assistants. Canine Assistants provides service dogs to support children and adults with mobility and health challenges. Jennifer was selected for her remarkable achievements and ability to affect change by providing a person greater independence, confidence and happiness.

Brandon Beach, President and CEO Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Lisa Machado, Ken Davis, Renasant Bank, Chairman of the Board of GNFCC.

Brandon Beach, President & CEO Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Arnold, Canine Assistants and Ken Davis, Renasant Bank, GNFCC Chairman of the Board

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

WorldwideXplorer Donates to Ugandan Primary School As part of their commitment to help people in the countries where they run tours, WorldwideXplorer®’s safari to Uganda stopped at a rural primary school (grades 1 to 7), where they and their travelers donated many school supplies. The school had also requested soccer uniforms. WorldwideXplorer® was able to raise enough money to purchase the first-ever soccer uniforms for the team. To learn more about WorldwideXplorer®, based in Milton, please see their web site at CustomExoticTours.com or call (678) 243-0080.

Roswell Breaks Ground on New Adaptive Therapeutic Sports Field

The City of Roswell recently broke ground at the site of the new adaptive therapeutic sports field at the Waller Park Extension on Dobbs Drive. The new field, set to open in the spring of 2016, will feature a synthetic turf that will allow wheelchairs and walkers to move freely. With the installation of this field, the City of Roswell will be able to expand their adaptive programs to include additional athletics, such as youth baseball and softball, as well as enhance the experience of sport and recreation for those individuals attending the Summer Friendship Camps. The Roswell Rotary Club has made a generous donation of $60,000 toward the project, which costs approximately $105,000 in total. In addition, the Roswell Recreation Association has donated $25,000, and a private donor has put forth $16,000 toward the project. The remaining funds will be donated by the Friends of the Roswell Parks, Inc.

Congratulations to our October “7 Differences” winner, Melanie Tugman!

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Community Feature

Mikaela Gauthreux and Brian Mocarski were recently honored as the XL212 Student Athletes of the Month (SAM Award) at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce February Eggs & Enterprise Breakfast. The SAM award recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of deserving Student-Athletes in the greater North Fulton area. Winners are chosen from nominations made by area Athletic Directors and coaches, and based on extraordinary academic proficiency, exceptional athletic accomplishments, and dedication to civic action. Brian Mocarski, a Junior football player from Holy Spirit Preparatory School, is the Male Student- Athlete of the Month, and Mikaela Gauthreux, a Senior volleyball player from Johns Creek High School, was named the Female Student-Athlete of the Month.

Eight Fulton County middle school students will sign their commitments to graduate high school and accept a $10,000 college scholarship funded by the REACH Georgia, Fulton County Schools and the Fulton Education Foundation. The event will be held in a style similar to athletic scholarship signing ceremonies.

ACH E R

XL212 Announces September Student Athletes of the Month

8 Fulton Middle School Students to Earn $10,000 Scholarships

EORG

Launched in 2012, REACH Georgia is a needs-based scholarship that begins in eighth grade. REACH Scholars are paired with a mentor and an academic coach through high school. Scholars must maintain good behavior, good grades (2.5 GPA in core courses), good attendance and graduate from high school. Scholars who successfully complete the program and graduate are awarded a $10,000 scholarship that can be used at any HOPE eligible college in Georgia. Many colleges are matching or double-matching this scholarship. The scholarship is in addition to any other grant or scholarship the student receives.

145 Fulton Students Named Semifinalists for 2016 National Merit Scholarship The Fulton County School System proudly announces that 145 students are semifinalists in the 61st annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These scholastically-talented high school seniors now continue in the national competition for more than 7,400 Merit Scholarship awards, a value of approximately $32 million. This is the first round of competition for students seeking the distinction of being named a National Merit Scholar and receiving the scholarship money associated with it. Finalists will be named in the winter and the scholarship winners will be announced in the spring. The students were identified through exceptionally high scores on the PSAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which they took as juniors. As semifinalists, the students now must fulfill several requirements in order to advance to the finalist round. They must have a record of high academic performance, be endorsed and recommended by their school leadership, and earn SAT scores that confirm their earlier qualifying test performance. A detailed scholarship application, which includes the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self-descriptive essay and information about his or her participation and leadership in school and community activities, also must be submitted.

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

End of Year

Dental Insurance Plan Benefits By Vishant Nath, DMD As the end of the calendar year quickly approaches, it’s a good time to take a look at your dental insurance plan. If you or your children are due for dental cleanings or treatment, here are some reasons why you might want to schedule them before December 31. First and foremost, if you or your children are requiring any dental treatment, scheduling it sooner rather than later is always the best decision. Delaying dental treatment can create the need for more extensive — and expensive — dental treatment down the road. Be sure to consult your dentist to determine an

appropriate timeline for scheduling the dental treatment. If you have dental insurance but are not familiar with the specifics of your plan, it is worthwhile to take some time to review it. This can be done by looking over the paperwork that you received upon enrollment, visiting the plan’s website or making a phone call to your dental insurance company. These may seem like mundane tasks, but if you are paying monthly premiums, it’s wise to know for what you are paying. Once you know the basics of your insurance plan, you can determine whether it’s beneficial to schedule any end-of-year dental visits. If you have already met your deductible for the year

and have work that needs to be done, it’s wise to schedule it before December 31. In addition, most plans have a yearly maximum benefit that they will pay out per year. If you have not reached this yearly maximum, it will not carry over to the next year. So if you have dental care needs, it’s beneficial to schedule an appointment before the end of the calendar year to get the full benefits of your dental insurance plan. The bottom line is that by scheduling your dental appointments in a timely fashion, you can improve your oral health, and you can take full advantage of the insurance benefits that you are paying for with your premiums, both of which will give you reason to smile!

Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com

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Mayor’s Minute

Balanced FY 2016 Budget: Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Relief and Park Improvements

By Mayor Mike Bodker

fter considerable discussion, community input and refinement, the Johns Creek City Council approved the Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 Operating Budget of $60.4 million with a unanimous vote. The City Council also committed more than 75 percent of its estimated $54 million in reserves. I am pleased with the efforts of the City Council and staff to work together to deliver Johns Creek’s 10th consecutive balanced budget, which will fund traffic congestion relief, public safety improvements, park enhancements and community-based planning for the future. This budget incorporates significant improvements to our budget process and addresses the community’s desire for a clearer picture of city expenditures. With a relatively new council and a new look to the budget, we have fundamentally changed the way we have incorporated input from the City Council, city staff and the public, and I’m grateful to all involved. The FY 2016 Budget is the product of a new, strategic planning process that utilizes a 10-year financial forecast model, complemented by a scorecard method to prioritize capital requests. Our new process, which is driven in part by keeping an eye on the long-term future, 18

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

enabled us to more precisely resource our key priorities, as well as enabled us to make cuts totaling more than $2 million in operational and expenditure funds. The budget also addresses the critical need to ensure Public Safety continues to be properly resourced. We cannot take for granted our status as Georgia’s safest city. The city is growing, and we have planned ahead to ensure our police and fire departments keep pace. We have committed $643,842 for four new police officers, which includes vehicles and equipment to help improve response times and available community outreach programs. The Public Safety budget also includes $314,698 for personnel costs for three new fire fighters and an additional fire marshal, which includes critical equipment, such as additional oxygen tanks, to keep them safe. The additional fire department personnel increases resources for conducting fire inspections, which greatly assists our business community. The FY 2016 Budget was also designed to aggressively address our traffic congestion issues, as well as other key infrastructure needs. Specifically, we have funded traffic congestion relief projects for

key transportation corridors, including McGinnis Ferry Road, Kimball Bridge Road, Abbotts Bridge Road, Jones Bridge Road, Barnwell Road and Haynes Bridge Road. Also, we have committed $5 million towards neighborhood road resurfacing. We also heard you loud and clear regarding the need for additional parks and recreational opportunities. To that end, we are committing more than $1.5 million for park improvements, in addition to eventual development of pocket parks on Morton Road and State Bridge road. We also hope to purchase additional land for new parks. For a more comprehensive look at the approved FY 2016 Budget, please visit our budget webpage. Your input plays a critical role in helping us shape each budget, so please remain engaged with us throughout the year. This is your city, and we value your thoughts and input regarding how best to spend your tax dollars. Please connect with us by emailing Info@JohnsCreekGa.gov.

Mike Bodker is the mayor of Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Mike.Bodker@JohnsCreekGa.gov, JohnsCreekGa.gov.

Every state has its own laws on how a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assets get distributed if they die without a will. In Georgia, a surviving spouse does not always inherit all of the deceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assets. Instead, a spouse shares the assets equally with the decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children, but is always guaranteed a one-third share. For example, if someone passes away, leaving behind a spouse and two children, the spouse only gets one-third of the estate and the children each receive one-third. If the children are minors, then the surviving spouse would have to ask the probate court to name him or her as conservator over the funds held for his or her children. The spouse would also then have to buy a surety bond from an insurance company and pay a premium every year, promising that the funds are used appropriately for the children. Lastly, the conservator would also have to report to the probate court every year what is being done with the funds until the children

turn eighteen, at which point they would get all of the remaining funds in a lump sum. Most people prefer that their spouse receive all of the assets and then pass them on to their children at the second death. They would not want their spouse to go through the hassle of getting a bond and reporting their expenses to the court. Leaving a lump sum to an eighteen year old is also problematic. It makes more sense for children to inherit money in stages, when they are responsible enough to handle it. Estate planning is not just for the elderly. It is critical for couples with young children. The death of a spouse is often unexpected and difficult for the surviving spouse. Why not make their lives easier by leaving the estate to them and then setting up baskets for minor children at the second death, so that they can receive money gradually.

If I Died Without a Will By Marianna Ilina, Esq.

Marianna Ilina, Esq. is an associate at the Law Offices of J. Christopher Miller, PC. 678-746-2900. NorthFultonWills.com

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COVER STORY By Kathleen Boehmig

Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net

Pictured above: Audio Intersection sales person, Jake Bondy, shows off the new Ruckus WIFI access point.

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

The Art of Smart “We are living in the digital age, an age where there has been an explosion of smart internet toys,” says Michael Buckner, owner of Audio Intersection in Canton. “We have great ways to keep our homes safe, comfortable and convenient, but sometimes controlling those devices can become overwhelming. At Audio Intersection, we make devices and controls communicate efficiently. That’s how we’ve earned our reputation for excellence: by helping others with their home and business electronics in the areas of Wi-Fi, security/safety, convenience and luxury audio-video apps.”

new construction prewires, security systems and monitoring service and DirecTV installation.

The business is located in Canton, but service territory depends on the size of the job. “We’ve done jobs from Chattanooga, Hayesville, and from Bryson City to Pensacola,” Michael says. He pilots a Cessna and has been known to fly himself wherever necessary to see a customer.

“The first thing we do is fix the Wi-Fi,” Michael says. “We make sure the internet is perfect. Many people think the trend is toward wireless functions in electronics, but that’s actually a misconception. ‘Wireless’ equals interference. So we arrange internal electronics so that nothing is further than twenty-five to thirty feet from wired hardware. A wired connection is typically twice as fast as a wireless one.”

Services provided by Audio Intersection, in business since 2006, include home automation, home theater installation and maintenance, whole home audio,

Home automation is almost considered a necessity nowadays in upscale America. “In addition to wiring your home to suit any need or want and providing you with the latest audio, video and security components, we tie it all together in easy to use control solutions and remotes,” Michael states. “Turning on music or a movie is as easy as pushing a button. Integrating things like lights, HVAC and other electronics into activities can make your home operate around your lifestyle. There’s no limit to what you can do.”

Michael continues, “So after we make sure the wireless network is

Automated door locks by Kwikset

Preset keypad for programs such as the Welcome button

DSC Security keypad

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off music and TVs, turns down the thermostat, lowers the garage door and turns on outdoor floodlights, if desired.”

Pictured above: Sales person, Brett Cochran, demos the motorized shades. They can open with your alarm clock or close with your snooze button.

robust, we put everything on one app. We use Control 4, a company that makes products that allow different apps to communicate. For the customer, it’s the equivalent of having a universal remote instead of a bunch of different controls cluttering the coffee table.” Several very popular buttons are the Wake Up, Goodbye, Welcome Home and Good Night buttons. “We can program your smartphone to tell your house what time to wake up. For instance, if you want to rise at 7:00 am, your thermostat will go up several degrees at 6:45, lights will ramp on from zero to 50% brightness over five minutes, and soft music will play. At seven o’clock the loud music comes on, the lights go bright, and you get up without having to turn up the heat.” “The Goodbye button can shut off TVs and other electronic devices, set thermostats to more efficient temperatures, lock the doors, and arm the security system to the Away function. The Welcome Home button performs the same thing in reverse, and the Good Night button locks doors, shuts

“Our Welcome Home button can be programmed, for example, so that when the garage door is opened between 3:00-6:00 pm, the thermostat is put back into comfort mode, and your favorite music station comes on in the kitchen.” Almost anything can be automated. “We have apps to control pools, hot tubs, lighting, locks, even garden irrigation systems,” Michael says. “One customer enjoys having coffee by his pool in the mornings while listening to music. He kept missing package deliveries, so we programmed his doorbell. Now when it’s rung during certain morning hours, the music pauses and lights flash an alert signal. He doesn’t miss package deliveries anymore.” Security systems are an important component in making sure businesses and homes are protected against intrusion. “Thanks to modern technology, we can automate your alarm system so that it is armed when you lock the front door. No more worrying about whether or not you remembered to arm it! All of our alarm systems are monitored through a reliable, 24/7 monitoring service.” Audio Intersection is a specialist in home theater installation, as well. “We offer surround sound, big screen TV wall installation and projectors. Your movie room is customized to your needs. Whether

you are shopping for new in-wall speakers for your home theater or adding complete automation to make things a little more modern, we can do it.” Although Audio Intersection has done work for well-known musicians and Fortune 500 execs, their services aren’t just for the rich and famous. “People are often worried about affordability,” Michael says, “but many of our customers spend a surprisingly low amount of money. We offer the same price as local big box stores on equipment. Our services aren’t cheap, but they are affordable. It all depends on customer requirements. We provide convenience, for everyone from busy moms to corporate execs. We can shave ten to twenty minutes off of an average day.” Audio Intersection also assists in setting up apps for digital home health care. “No one ever wants to feel like they’re becoming a burden as they get older, and advancements in home automation are allowing people to age more gracefully,” Michael says. “We now have a platform that allows notifications to be sent at one’s own choosing. This includes instances such as when a loved one returns or leaves, opens a cabinet or refrigerator, gets out of bed or even moves around the house normally. There is also a ‘contact me’ button that can be pressed and will send a notification in case of emergency.” “In the end,” Michael says, “it comes down to this: we provide elegant solutions in solving lifestyle problems.”

210 East Main Street, Canton • 770-479-1000 • AudioIntersection.com

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Bulbs, Corms, Rhizomes, and Tubers*, Oh My! By Lisa Ethridge Since November brings the first frost, gardens in North Fulton move towards dormancy. Yard clean-up includes clipping perennials, pulling dead annuals, raking leaves and replacing mulch. Late fall is the ideal time to plant trees and shrubs, so they can get established for the next growing season. This month, many gardeners plan ahead for spring color by adding hardy bulbs to the landscape. A nice selection of spring bloomers can be found online or in nurseries: snow drop, crocus, hyacinth, grape hyacinth, daffodil, tulip, peony and bearded iris do well in zone 7. Consider planting bulbs around spring blooming shrubs or trees: forsythia, flowering quince/cherry, dogwood, azalea or spirea. Bulbs also do well in pots, and forcing bulbs for indoor holiday cheer is a simple, DIY project. For planting and growing success, plan to plant before the ground freezes. Work the soil deeply, and mix it with lime/ bone meal and peat moss/perlite to ensure a nice, loose medium, which the bulbs need to grow and multiply. To get detailed information about selecting, planting and forcing bulbs, consult Extension.UGA.edu/Publications #B918, “Flowering Bulbs for Georgia Gardens”. When you are ready to plant, place bone meal in the bottom of the hole, set the bulb and cover with the soil. Please note: tulips are spectacular, but they do not re-bloom reliably in the south. Planting the bulbs only 7-8” deep may keep the bulbs cooler and encourage a repeat performance, but don’t count on it. After planting, mulch and water the bed. Then be patient and enjoy the holidays. As early as January, the bulbs will poke through the soil. Each spring, the miraculous return of blossoming bulbs is a happy reminder that the season is changing. After the blooms wither, deadhead the flower, but DO NOT CUT OFF THE LEAVES. The leaves play a critical role in the life cycle of the bulb. Fertilize after the bloom cycle is complete, and then forget about them until next year. *Amazing, self-contained plants that possess unique, underground energy-storage systems, which not only sustain the plant, but generate stunning blooms every year.

Lisa Ethridge is a certified master gardener with North Fulton Master Gardeners, part of the UGA Cooperative Extension Service. 404-613-7670. NFMG.net

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Holiday Hospitality

Holiday Happenings

Holiday Highlights 24

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Holiday Hospitality Children’s Restoration Network 2015 Thanksgiving Food Drive Toys for Tots “Bring the joy of Christmas to America’s needy children.” To participate, simply bring a new, unwrapped toy or game. 11/16, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, Johns Creek City Hall (4th floor), Park Place, or one of the fire stations from Nov. 17-Dec. 19. JohnsCreekGA.gov

Operation Christmas Child Operation Christmas Child uses giftfilled shoeboxes to bring hope to children living in desperate situations all around the world. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has sent more than 100 million shoebox gifts to children in more than 120 different countries. Suggested items include school supplies, hygiene items and toys. They’re accepting donations 11/16-11/23. Drop-off locations in the North Fulton area include Johns Creek Baptist Church and First Baptist Church Alpharetta. 770-777-9342. SamaritansPurse.org/OCC

Their goal is to collect 250+ turkeys with all the trimmings for children living in shelters and group homes, and fill their pantries for the Holidays! They are accepting donations from 11/1-11/22, 10:00 am-4:30 pm, Roswell Town Center, 610 Holcomb Bridge Road Roswell, Ste. 5000A. 770-649-7117. ChildRN.org

The Drake House The Drake House provides shortterm crisis housing, education and empowerment programs for homeless mothers and their children in North Fulton County, designed to assist the family in working toward selfsufficiency. Their food pantry is stocked with canned goods, dry items, such as pasta, cereal and rice, paper and cleaning products, toiletries, diapers and baby items, condiments and juices. Through gift card donations, fresh foods, such as milk, cheese and eggs are purchased each week to supplement the canned and dry items. Mothers complete a grocery need list each Monday evening during their workshop, volunteers fill

the orders, and families return to their apartments with provisions for the week. The pantry is stocked through donations from individuals, businesses, faith-based organizations and civic groups. Donations may be made during office hours, Monday through Friday, between 9:00 am-4:00 pm, 10500 Clara Drive, Roswell. 770-587-4712 x305. TheDrakeHouse.org

NFCC Thanksgiving Food Drive Thanksgiving is a special time to share a family meal. NFCC’s annual Thanksgiving Food Distribution Day helps over 900 local families in need to celebrate the blessings of Thanksgiving in their homes. Donations of nonperishable, Thanksgiving food items and grocery store gift cards in $25 increments are needed this November! Please limit your donations to specific items for a Thanksgiving meal. General items for our Food Pantry can be made to our Food Pantry at our main location on Elkins Road. Friday, 11/20: 4:00-7:00 pm, Saturday, 11/21: 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Holiday Distribution Site: 1175 North Meadow Pkwy., (Enter off of Wills Road), Roswell. 770-640-0399. NFCCHelp.org

Holiday Happenings November 7

St. Benedict 11th Annual Holiday Bazaar—featuring over 40 vendors. Lunch and baked goods also will be for sale. We will hold raffle drawings with all product lines represented by our vendors. Offerings include hundreds of unique gift ideas, artistic cards, home décor, floral arrangements, jewelry,

crocheted/knitted items, clothing/ accessories, handbags/totes, books, fused glassware, yard art, seasonal gifts, pet items, headbands/bows, doll clothes, blankets, pottery, gardening items, gourmet food items, artwork, wood carvings and so much more. 9:30 am-5:30 pm, 11045 Parsons Road, Johns Creek. 770-753-4374. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

seasonal crafts, hikes, tours and s’mores at the fire pit. 10:00 am-1:00 pm, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek. 678366-3511. AutreyMill.org/events.htm

November 27-29

November 15 Cambridge Subdivision’s Annual Holiday Shopping and Craft Fair— There will be live music, custom artwork, holiday décor, clothing and accessories, health and beauty products, monogramming services, raffles and 25+ local vendors. Admission is free! Noon6:00 pm, Cambridge Clubhouse, 5950 Millwick Drive, Johns Creek.

November 22 The Lighting of Avalon—Kick off the holiday season with us at the Lighting of Avalon. This family-friendly event will feature seasonal music, entertainment throughout the day, and free activities for all ages. Just after the sun sets, our 30-foot decorated Christmas tree will light up the night, and the evening will culminate with the parade arrival of Santa Claus and a festive fireworks display. 12:00-8:00 pm, Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. AwesomeAlpharetta.com

The Nutcracker—A Roswell tradition, with over 300 cast members; dancing cupcakes, mice, soldiers and an array of favorite characters enchant children and adults. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-9980259. FallInNorthFulton.com

November 30 City Hall Tree Lighting—Santa Claus makes an early appearance at a party highlighted by the traditional lighting of a giant dreidel and 30-foot Christmas tree. Children can give him their wish list and participate in kids’ activities. Local elementary school choruses accentuate the festive air with a selection of seasonal favorites before the Mayor throws the switch! 6:30 pm, Johns Creek City Hall parking lot. JohnsCreekGa.gov

November 30 Cards for Veterans—Sign the giant holiday cards designed by JC 5th graders for military personnel at our three Georgia veterans hospitals. The cards will be available for signing at the tree lighting and City Hall through Dec. 5. 8:30 am-5:00 pm, Johns Creek City Hall, 4th floor. JohnsCreekGa.gov

November 23-25, 27

December 1-31

Thanksgiving Break Bonus Fun— Everyone loves live animals, so during Thanksgiving break, meet a live animal at our Bonus Creature Features each day. Afterwards, join us on a bonus guided hike. The crisp, fall air will have you begging to get outside! These activities are included with general admission, and Free to CNC Members. 11:00 am, Chattahoochee Nature Center. VisitRoswellGa.com

Christmas in Roswell—We invite you, your family and friends to enjoy Roswell during the holiday season as history comes alive, tours are abundant, and we festively celebrate our art and culture. You will find the perfect activity to create special memories of the season for each member of the family.VisitRoswellGa. com

November 24 Autumn at Autrey Mill—Join us for fall activities during Thanksgiving week. 26

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

December 2 Cookies with the Claus’s—Children enjoy decorating cookies, making crafts and visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring your camera for this great photo

opportunity! There’s no charge for this event. However, participants are asked to bring a new, UNWRAPPED gift to the event for donations to Toys for Tots. Pre-registration is required by November 30 (walk-ins not accepted). Register early; this event fills fast! 12:30-2:30 pm, Alpharetta Community Center. 678297-6100. ACCPrograms@Alpharetta. Ga.us

December 4 Winter Fest—Craft fair featuring local crafts, such as embroidery, jewelry, glassware, quilts and much more! This festival helps provide conference scholarships for career technology students. 3:30-5:00 pm, Johns Creek High School media center, 5575 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. Riceg1@ FultonSchools.org

December 5 Alpharetta Christmas Tree Lighting All the magic of Christmas glistens at the annual lighting of the 45’ live spruce tree, with 10,000 white lights! At 5:00 pm, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting with children all evening in the gazebo. A North Fulton Jaycee’s volunteer will be on-hand to help take FREE online photos, or parents may bring their cameras to take photos. Mayor Belle Isle will read the children’s classic book, ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. An entertainment program will feature North Point Community Church, who will partner on this year’s event. 6:009:00 pm, Downtown Alpharetta, across from City Hall at 2 Park Plaza. 678297-6000. Alpharetta.Ga.Us

December 5 Christmas in Crabapple—2:00-5:00 pm, Broadwell Pavillion, Milton. 678242-2500. CityOfMiltonGa.us

December 12 Milton Fire Department Pancake Breakfast with Santa—8:00-10:00 am, Fire Station 43, Milton. 678-242-2500. CityOfMiltonGa.us

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paws; come all! You and your pet(s) can be photographed with Santa Claus! This holiday pet portraiture is a special bonding experience between pet owners and their pets, and it can make the perfect greeting card, original gift or heartfelt keepsake. Certain restrictions apply for pets. Free! Noon-2:00 pm, Waggy World Dog Park, Alpharetta. 678-297-6132.WPRCPrograms@ Alpharetta.Ga.us

December 12 Breakfast with Santa—Children visit with Santa and enjoy a light breakfast! Personal cameras welcome. Pre-register children (ages 1-10) by December 7. Bring a new, unwrapped gift to the event for a local donation. 8:30-10:30 am, Alpharetta Adult Activity Center. 678-297-6140. ActiveAdults@Alpharetta.Ga.us

December 12 Pet Photos with Santa Paws—Come

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

December 12 Breakfast/Lunch with Santa—All Johns Creek boys and girls are invited to have breakfast or lunch with Santa. Children will also enjoy music, holiday crafts, letters to Santa and pictures with Santa. Parents please bring your camera. Breakfast seatings at 9:00 am and 10:30 am, lunch is at noon, Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. JohnsCreekGA.gov

December 13 Alpharetta City Band Holiday Concert Enjoy festive and traditional holiday music at this free concert, co-sponsored by the Alpharetta Golden Age Club. Cookies and punch will be served. 3:00 pm, Alpharetta Adult Activity Center. ActiveAdults@Alpharetta.Ga.us

December 16-18 The North Pole Fa-La-La-La Follies Lee Bryan, “That Puppet Guy,” is returning to Roswell with another captivating show, “Yule love it!” Get ready for hilarious holiday high-jinx as some talented residents of the North Pole perform in their annual talent show. The zany and colorful cast of characters includes a wisecracking fruitcake, a musical goose, tumbling teddy bears, a duo of dancing deer, the “not-soabominable” snowman and much, much more. This sparkling holiday production combines music, live vocal performance

and a variety of beautifully costumed hand puppets and rod puppets. This show will “sleigh” you! All shows will begin at 4:00 pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-594-6232. RoswellPuppets.com

December 19-21 Santa’s Missing Mail—Ominous Crook and his sidekick, Skellmutt, are two dastardly bad guys who are out to stop Christmas by stealing Santa Claus’ mail. You’ll meet some panicked elves, a wise-cracking reindeer, a dim-witted superhero and Santa, himself. The audience will also give David’s friend, Fitzgerald, some help in writing a letter to St. Nick. This production, written by David Stephens, debuted in 1998 and is being brought back by All Hands Productions for the holiday season. Saturday and Monday’s shows will begin at 10:00 am, and Sunday’s show will begin at 2:00 pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-594-6232. RoswellPuppets.com

Holiday Highlights LaVida Are you looking for the Best. Gift. Ever?! “Best of Life” Award Winner, LaVida Massage, is making the stress of holiday shopping easier, with limited time gift card offers for Massage and Facial services. For the holidays, if you buy three, $50 gift cards, you’ll receive a gift certificate for a FREE 60-min Custom Massage session or 60-min Signature Facial Session. Purchase a $100 gift card, get a free $25 certificate, and if you buy a $50 gift card, you’ll receive a free $10.00 gift certificate. LaVida Massage offers new client massage specials starting at $39.95 for one-hour sessions or one-hour Signature Facial sessions starting at $49.95. Come try our award winning services, and buy gift cards and gifts for family and friends at the same time! Open 7 days a week with extended hours, and conveniently located in Alpharetta, Johns Creek and East Cobb/Marietta. For a location near you, visit LaVidaMassageGA.com.

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Holiday Entertaining Cleaning Service

Maid Right of North Fulton 770-552-6243, MaidRight.com

WINNERS

Furniture/Home Design Decorating Den

770-926-0383, DecoratingDen.com

Holiday Lighting

Christmas DĂŠcor of Roswell 770-642-7713, LawnSouth.com

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

As North Roswell Internal Medicine celebrates its 11th year of service to the North Fulton and Cherokee County communities, it also welcomes two new providers. Dr. George Kanes brings his expertise of pulmonary medicine and internal medicine to North Roswell Internal Medicine, while Tracy Kowalski, a nurse practitioner who graduated from Baylor University in Texas, brings a background in internal medicine, pediatrics and family medicine. Both providers are enthusiastic to grow and integrate into the North Roswell community. North Roswell Internal Medicine was established in 2003 by Dr. Goga Vukotic. Dr. Vukotic has served this community for more than 15 years, and the practice has grown with the community. She opened her practice with the goal of providing personalized care in a fast-paced, small community setting. Dr. “V” is practicing medicine with an understanding of the human mind and body, along with following the guidelines of evidence-based medicine principals and ethics, in the interest of providing the best treatment possible for her patients. Her mission has allowed her to

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

build long-term relationships with her patients. Naima Cheema, M.D., joined the practice in 2009 after graduating from Emory University and quickly aligned with Dr. “V’s” approach, along with Keela Weeks Leger, FNP, who joined in 2010. North Roswell Internal Medicine is unique in that it provides a wide variety of personalized care in a small, personal, community setting. Medical services include cancer screenings, cardiovascular screenings, women’s health, management of multiple disease states, medically supervised weight loss (including RMR), hormone replacement, vaccinations and sports physicals. Their patients also have access to the newest treatments in clinical research trials, through its partnership with Atlanta Center for Clinical Research-ACCR. In addition, all North Roswell Internal Medicine providers donate their time and expertise by receiving medical students and nurse practitioner students, currently from Emory University, KSU and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, to assist in teaching them during their clinical rotations.

The providers at North Roswell Internal Medicine are supported by a dedicated staff, many of whom have worked with Dr. Vukotic since the practice began 11 years ago. Their personal approach to patient care allows patients direct contact with staff and providers, as well as 24-hour access to the physician portal. The physician portal allows patients to schedule appointments, check lab results, request prescription refills, and most importantly, contact providers during or after office hours. North Roswell Internal Medicine hospital affiliations include North Fulton Hospital, Northside Hospital and Piedmont Hospital.

11050 Crabapple Road, Building A, Suite 104B, Roswell

770-645-0017

NorthRoswellInternalMedicine.com

Reduce Your Risk for

By Susan Casella, R.N.,C.

Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most common, non-skin cancer in females in the U.S. and the second most common cause of cancer related death in women. One in eight women will develop the disease at some point in her lifetime. Although there are several risk factors you can’t control, such as age, family history and race, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Exercising is one way that can help you maintain a healthy weight, and growing evidence suggests that regular physical activity may keep cancer at bay. For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Limit alcohol. Habitual alcohol consumption has long been linked to a greater risk of developing breast cancer, particularly for younger women who have yet to have their first child. Research from Harvard Medical School shows the more alcohol a woman drinks between her first menstrual cycle and her first full-term pregnancy, the higher her risk of developing the disease. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than one drink a day. Don’t smoke. Developing breast cancer is just one of the many negative health effects of smoking. Accumulating evidence suggests that there is an even higher risk for premenopausal women. If you don’t smoke,

don’t start. If you do smoke, use every resource you can find to help you quit. Secondhand smoke also may pose a threat to non-smokers. Reduce your exposure as much as possible; choose smoke-free restaurants and avoid indoor public places that allow smoking. If you work in a smokefilled work environment, ask your employer permission to increase ventilation where smoking takes place by opening windows or using exhaust fans. Limit the use of hormone therapy. Taking combination hormone therapy for more than three years may increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Women taking hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms should ask their doctor if it’s possible to manage symptoms without the use of hormones. If hormone therapy is necessary, it is recommended to use the lowest dose possible.

Breastfeeding: Among the many benefits that breastfeeding poses for you and your baby, studies show that breastfeeding may reduce your chances of getting breast cancer. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective benefits have been shown. Get Screened. Lastly, perhaps the greatest preventative measure you can take against breast cancer is committing yourself to regular mammograms and screenings. If you don’t already, perform monthly breast self-exams. Although breast self-exams should not replace screening mammograms, breast selfexams allow you to become familiar with the normal feel and appearance of your breasts so that you are able to notice changes easier. Beginning at age 40, you should schedule annual mammograms, unless told otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Susan Casella is a registered nurse and the breast health education and support service coordinator at the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Northside.com/Breast.

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One of the fastest growing areas of the American economy is technology. It seems if you don’t upgrade your phone as soon as you’re eligible, you’re classified as having a dinosaur phone. I’ve noticed a similar life span in computers and TV’s, and it seems like after four or five years, it’s cheaper to buy a new one than it is to repair the old one. For this reason, I pose the question to you, when is the last time you upgraded the technology in your home? I don’t mean your TVs, DVD players, computers and game consoles, but turning your house into a “smart house.” A smart home connects all of the devices in your house so that they communicate with each other. The possibilities are seemingly endless. Once wired, several vendors offer a mobile access app, which allows you to control items in your home from any web-enabled smart device. This app has many capabilities; for example, you can

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

Smart

HOUSES

By Nick Roper

view live camera feeds at your home while you’re away. I recently saw a product that appears to be a doorbell but is actually a motion activated camera, so you can see who shows up at your front door from your phone. The entertainment systems that are available are very exciting. There are systems that allow you to separate your home into many different zones. The

more popular zones in your home are the living room, bedrooms, garage, bathrooms, outdoor areas and basement. You’d have the capability to tune the wall or ceiling speakers in every zone to the same audio source (TV, CD player, iPod, etc.), which means the sound quality in your home would be consistent in every room, or you could listen to or watch something different in each zone. All of this happens through the same interconnected speakers. All of these devices are interconnected inside the walls of your home and terminate to one box in a mechanical closet, so there are no exposed wires. These are just a few examples of a vast number of options Nick Roper is manager of business you have when development for H&H upgrading your Electric and Security home into a smart LLC. 770-735-1136. house. MyAtlantaElectrician.net

In a small pot, place the eggs and cover with cold water, about an inch above the eggs. Heat the eggs on the stove at high heat until it comes to a rolling boil. 1 dozen extra large eggs ¼ cup bacon (cooked and chopped) ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup basil (chopped)

Turn off the heat and cover with aluminum foil for 10 minutes. Uncover the pot and place the eggs in an ice water bath for 20 minutes. Peel the shell off of the eggs and cut them in half. Separate the yolks from the whites, reserving the whites and placing the yolks in a mixing bowl.

1 avocado (diced)

Next, whip the cooked egg yolks, bacon, basil and mayonnaise until creamy

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

and fluffy. In a separate mixing bowl, toss the diced avocado in the lemon juice.

Smoked paprika aioli

With a rubber spatula, fold the avocado into the egg mixture and season with

Arugula oil

salt and pepper. Place in a piping bag and fill the cooked egg whites as much as

Crispy shallots

possible. Top with smoked paprika aioli, arugula oil and crispy shallots.

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Thanksgiving Decorating! By Keely Woodford

LIFESTYLE The Thanksgiving holiday is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for ways to decorate beyond the traditional trappings, then here are a few great ideas for your consideration.

Beautiful Tabletops!

Today, fresh is in! So why not consider decorating your holiday table with a beautiful fresh flower arrangement? Floating a few carefully chosen flowers in a beautiful ceramic or fine art, glass bowl would definitely help your tabletop take center stage. At Thanksgiving time, a beautifully

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

designed bowl might be carefully filled with nature’s bounty of squash, gourds and miniature pumpkins. Or you could even take a more decorative approach, and fill your centerpiece bowl with seed studded balls in a variety of colors. To complete your table settings, take a cue from the objects you’ve used to fill your decorative bowl to designate each place setting. If, for instance, miniature pumpkins are a part of your thanksgiving mix, give each guest his or her own. Carve out the centers and use them as mini-vases for proportionately scaled flowers, or make openings large enough to accommodate votive candles. You might even feature seasonallythemed stationery as place cards, finishing each one with a keepsake stickpin.

Glowing Candles!

If one pair of candlesticks on your fireplace mantle is good, then a collection is even better. If you collect crystal, for example, pull together a grouping in all shapes and sizes, old and new. Add candles of varying heights, and you’re ready to set a romantic holiday mood in any room. As the seasons change, simply change the color of your candles! Don’t be afraid to mix and match the style of your candlesticks either. An eclectic collection invariably says something about your personal style – something that’s sure to make any holiday decorating scheme more memorable! L

Keely Woodford is a franchise owner of Decorating Den Interiors. 770-926-0383. Keely.DecoratingDen.com

Artist Profile BY PAIGE GARDNER

within the span of a few months. “We opened the original location in a house on Canton Street,” she said. At the time, there were no dance classes in Roswell; there was no dance school, no dance studio. Nancy anticipated 75 students for the school’s debut enrollment. “We had 350 kids that first year,” she said. It was 1979, and North Fulton County saw an influx of families with children. “We were in the right place at the right time.”

ew people discover their life’s purpose at age three, or start a successful business at an age when most people are trying to determine a major in college, but Nancy Tolbert-Yilmaz, founder of the renowned Tolbert-Yilmaz School of Dance in Roswell, is the rare exception. After beginning dance lessons as a toddler, Nancy spent her childhood and teen years perfecting her craft. At the age of 21, she married her husband and opened her dance studio

As Roswell and the surrounding communities continued to grow, so did the enrollment in dance classes at the TolbertYilmaz School of Dance, which required a facility that could handle the increased demand. In 1995, Nancy and her staff of instructors moved to a larger facility on Alpharetta Street, where it remains today. The current location houses five state-of-the-art studios, “and I could use one more,” Nancy stated. She and her staff of 25 instructors work to instill a love of dance and a strong work ethic in their students. Rather than focus on competitions, Tolbert-Yilmaz dance students train for festivals, as well as to pursue dance as a way of life. “My goal is to get my kids not just into college, but with a scholarship,” she proclaimed. Many of the school’s alumni have gone on to become professional dancers and dance instructors. The reputation of the Tolbert-Yilmaz School of Dance contributes to its continued success and growth. “This year, our goal was to have 1,000 students enrolled in September,” said Nancy. “We have 1,593 students,” many of whom are children – or even grandchildren – of those who learned the craft at the dance school in its early years. “For The Nutcracker this year, we have three generations of students performing!” Nancy proudly exclaimed. When asked how many students have learned to dance at the school, Nancy laughed. “That would probably be like counting grains of sand on the beach!” she said. A Roswell native, Nancy is committed not just to the dance school that she founded, but also to sustaining the growth and reputation of the community. In addition to her role as Artistic Director of the school, Nancy serves as the current president of SERBA (Southeastern Regional Ballet Association), is an ordained deacon in the Baptist church, an esteemed board member of the Roswell Convention & Visitors Bureau and a member of Roswell Rotary. But the dance school is where her heart lies. “I love every minute I’m in the studio. It’s my happy place,” Nancy said.

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Quotables The meal is not over when I’m full. The meal is over when I hate myself. Louis C.K. Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Halftimes take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence. Erma Bombeck

Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts. Henri Frederic Amiel

We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give. Winston Churchill What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family. Mother Teresa What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say. Ralph Waldo Emerson I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou

Everyone can be great because anyone can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t even have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve … You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. Winnie the Pooh

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. Anne Frank, Diary of a Young Girl Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude. Denis Waitley We’re people and we’re different, all of us. And we should be using our differences to bring ourselves closer together. Justin Timberlake You cannot help someone get up a hill without getting closer to the top yourself. General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Granny Sheeran told me when I’m looking for a partner to fall in love with their eyes, because eyes are the only things that don’t age. So if you fall in love with their eyes, you’ll be in love forever. Ed Sheeran

E- Cigarettes: Are They Safer Than Traditional Cigarettes? ?

By Amanda Kossick, D.M.D.

In today’s society, there has been a major shift from the 40’s and 50’s in our outlook on cigarettes and tobacco usage. There was a time when cigarettes were being promoted as a health conscious decision, and dentists recommended certain brands over others. Presently, you’d be hard-pressed to find a healthcare provider recommending any tobacco product. In light of all the harmful information we’ve acquired about cigarettes in the last 50 years, there has been a demand for a product to help with smoking cessation. Over the years, many products have come onto the market, replacing the nicotine in cigarettes, which allows the user to taper their usage and eventually quit smoking. The newest form is the e-cigarette, or

North Fulton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2015

electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS). In theory, these devices appear to be an improvement for the smoker who is trying to quit. In recent reports from the CDC and American Lung Association, there is actually very little research or proof that these devices are helping anyone. As of right now, there are no controls or regulations on e-cigarettes, which translates to a potentially dangerous product for a consumer to inhale. There are many ingredients in the different brands of ENDS. Nicotine, formaldehyde, ingredients used in antifreeze, flavorings and diethylene glycol, among others the companies have not divulged. Another issue with these products is the gray area associated with clean air laws and the risk for secondhand smoke. Many

of the companies producing these products advertise there is no risk for secondhand smoke. In truth, there is still formaldehyde and other carcinogens produced when a person exhales the e-cigarette vapor, thus putting others at risk. The unknowns of the ENDS are what make these products not as safe as they’re being portrayed. The advertising is very similar to the cigarette propaganda in the 40s and 50s, and we now know how those advertisements were inaccurate and misleading. So in conclusion, the best way to avoid damage through the use of tobacco products is to avoid them entirely.

Dr. Amanda Kossick is a dentist with DeMercy Dental in Roswell. 770-641-8010. DeMercyDental.com

Holidays Come Alive

Royal Caribbean Cruises By Michael Consoli LIFESTYLE This December, Royal Caribbean International invigorates the holidays with festive activities and entertainment aboard all ships sailing in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking forward to rockin’ around the Christmas tree with your favorite DreamWorks character, or simply spending some quality time with family and friends, the cruise line is inviting cruisers of all ages to immerse themselves in a diverse lineup of holiday celebrations during their vacation. “We are all about bringing friends and family together to share an amazing vacation experience, and what better time to do that than during the holidays. We are excited to be introducing many new onboard festivities that will further inspire holiday cheer,” said Mark Tamis, Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations, Royal Caribbean International. “With a wide range of innovative onboard amenities and immersive holiday themed activities, Royal Caribbean cruises are primed to provide distinct experiences, which are ideal for families looking to take the stress out of holiday planning by letting themselves enjoy a memorable Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s holiday at sea.” Guests sailing on a Royal Caribbean cruise this holiday season will experience new amenities and activities that are sure to excite guests of all ages. Holiday festivities that will get families into the spirit include: classic movie screenings, guest and crew caroling, family arts and crafts and cookie decorating, special holiday-themed Adventure Ocean youth programs, upgraded stateroom experiences — including themed and adorned towel animals — a

commemorative, seasonal souvenir cup from Coca-Cola, as well as holiday ice skating aboard select ships. On ships featuring the DreamWorks Experience, guests will have the chance to take holiday photos with Po of Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of Shrek and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo and King Julien from Madagascar, who will be adorned in festive holiday outfits. In addition, families can enjoy a special holiday character breakfast, where kids of all ages can interact with this special cast of characters. A special offer for the holiday season, guests can book December sailings through the BOGO HOHOHO! holiday promotion, and gift their travel companion in the same stateroom with half off their cruise fare on all open North American sailings. For all eligible sailings departing December 15-31, 2015 or December 15-31, 2016, vacationers can also receive prepaid gratuities for the first and second guests in the stateroom, in addition to half off cruise fare for their second guest. These special holiday itineraries will be featured on cruises departing from nine, easy-to-reach domestic home ports, including: Bayonne, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Miami, Port Canaveral, and Tampa, Fla., Galveston, TX and San Juan, Puerto Rico. L

Michael Consoli is a professional travel and cruise specialist and owner of Cruise Planners. 770-650-7667. PlanMyCruise.com

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