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Volume 1 | Issue 10
May 2014 24-26
Lake & Outdoor Recreation Georgia’s parks and waters offer relaxing family fun and thrilling adventures this summer.
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Artist Profile: Diane Buffington
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Book Review
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
In Every Issue 06 Calendar
16 Scoop of Life
10 Business Life
20 Community Life
11 Pieces of the Puzzle
22 Academic Life
150 North Street, Suite A, Canton, GA 30114 (O) 770-213-7095 | (F) 770-213-7106 www.familylifepublications.com
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Publisher’s
Perspective
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski jack@familylifepublications.com EDITORIAL Michelle Martin michelle@familylifepublications.com ART Tiffany Atwood tiffany@familylifepublications.com Candice Williams candice@familylifepublications.com
Beaut y
The of Mother Nature & Mothers T
he showers of April have not let us down this year, as the bounty of Mother Nature unfolds before us in the colorful gardens of May. This month, we are reminded of the beauty of nature, fresh life and growth, and the importance of nurture and care for the young. It’s apparent to me why we celebrate our mothers and their importance this month.
In the words of the American writer Lydia Sigourney, a mother has been commissioned to “light the lamp of the soul” and “feed it with the pure oil.” Proverbs 6:22 references a mother’s teachings: “When you walk about, they will guide you; When you sleep, they will watch over you; And when you awake, they will talk to you.”
Much like a seedling in the early spring, a mother watches over our physical wellbeing at the earliest and most malleable time of our lives and continues to help form our character and morals through her care and teachings of love and respect, truth and forgiveness. Sometimes, as I remember, my mother did so without saying a single word. With just a look — “that look”— I understood that I should know better already, or would learn a good lesson quickly.
There is no love beneath the heavens that compares to the unconditional love and forgiveness in the heart of every wonderful mother. I know this to be true. My first and favorite teacher — my mother — taught me so.
Jack Tuszynski, publisher
SALES George Colmant george@familylifepublications.com Janet Ponichtera janet@familylifepublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS State Senator John Albers, Mayor Mike Bodker, Ron Bradley, Crystal Bryant, Michael Buckner, Michael Consoli, Arlene Dickerson, Susan Elisha, Lisa Ethridge, Catherine Groves, Susan Hale, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Michelle Knapp, Dr. Amanda Kossick, Julie Lippitt, Dr. Mike Litrel, Chris Miller, Jack Parsons, Dr. Vishant Nath, Christy Noll, Nick Roper, Laura Stalemark, Suzanne Taylor North Fulton Family Life magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Family Life Publications. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the North Fulton area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found and other information. North Fulton Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. 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 the written permission from the Publisher. © 2014 All rights reserved.
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
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Calendar of
E v en t s May 3
Roswell Riverside Sounds — Chris Thomas King kicks off the 2014 concert series. The free outdoor concerts include food trucks on location (beginning at 6:00 p.m.). 7:00-9:00 p.m., Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. RoswellRiversideSounds.com
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Caffeine & Octane — Come out and enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring new and old, foreign and domestic, bone stock and wildly modified cars on display. The event is free to the public. 8:0011:00 a.m., 12600 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. CaffeineAndOctane.com
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Free Stroke Screenings — Northside Hospital will offer free stroke screens as part of National Stroke Awareness Month in May. The free screenings will be administered by healthcare professionals and will include a risk assessment, blood pressure reading, total cholesterol (HDL, ratio of TC/HDL), glucose, a limited number of carotid ultrasounds, and one-on-one consultations with healthcare professionals. Sleep apnea screenings and smoking cessation counseling also will be offered at the Forsyth screening. Appointments are required: 404-845-5555, then “0.” 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Northside HospitalForsyth Education Center, 3rd Floor, 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming.
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Taste of Alpharetta — Sample delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts ($.50-$3 each). Activities will include culinary demonstrations, a Fun Zone play area, Atlanta radio stations and other entertainment. 5:00-10:00 p.m., Across from Alpharetta City Hall, 2 S. Main St., Alpharetta. AwesomeAlpharetta.org
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Magic, Music & Merriment — Chicago Humorist/Comedian Dale Irvin will join Christian Illusionist/Musician Greg Davidson at the annual Believe Ministries
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Benefit Celebration. Admission is free, but will require a ticket. Donations are accepted to support Believe Ministries. 7:00 p.m., Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-587-1292, BelieveMinistries.org
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Spencer Day — Roswell Presents the Doubletree by Hilton-Roswell LIVE in Roswell Series! Spencer Day will perform hits from his 2004 debut album, “Introducing Spencer Day,” “Movie of Your Life,” and “The Mystery of You.” Tickets can be purchased online. 8:0010:00 p.m., Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6232, RoswellPresents.com
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“Classic Hollywood” — Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra will perform classical music featured in Hollywood movies, as well as classic Hollywood movie music — from Puccini, Rossini, and Strauss to the music of “Star Wars,” “Gone with the Wind” and “James Bond.” 8:00 p.m., Johns Creek High School, 5575 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. 678-748-5802, JohnsCreekSymphony.org
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Colors Festival of Arts — Presented by Roswell Junior Woman’s Club and Roswell Visitors Bureau, the 24th annual Colors Festival of Arts will bring lots of “colors” to Roswell’s historic town square as beautiful flowers of spring combine with beauty created from sparkling glass, an array of paintings, photography, captivating jewelry, whimsical sculptures and a wide array of original arts and crafts for the entire family! The event also will feature food vendors and live entertainment by storytellers, vocalists, instrumentalists and dancers. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. each day, Historic Town Square, Roswell. VisitRoswellGa.com continued on page 8
Library Events ALPHARETTA 238 Canton St., Alpharetta 770-740-2425 Northeast/Spruill Oaks 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 770-360-8820 Ocee 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek 770-360-8897 Roswell 115 Norcross Street, Roswell 770-640-3075
AFPLS.org Author-in-Residence Jackson Pearce May 10, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks Young Adult novelist Jackson Pearce will lead the workshop, “How to Write the Young Adult Novel.” Registration is required. Email: Karen. Swenson@FultonCountyGa.gov. Older Americans Month Concert: Atlanta Flute Ensemble May 13, 10:30 a.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks The Atlanta Flute Ensemble conducted by Kathy Farmer will perform in this concert sponsored by The Friends of the Northeast Spruill Oaks Library. Registration is required. Wednesdays Story Time for Tots May 14, 10:15 & 11:15 a.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks Interactive stories, fingerplays, songs and playtime. Ages 4 and under. Friends of Roswell Library Book Sale May 14-15 & May 17-18, Roswell Buy gently used bestsellers, nonfiction, adult and children’s books, media and more. May 14, 2:00-5:00 p.m.; May 15, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; May 17-18, 1:00-4:00 p.m. For more information, visit the Friends of the Roswell Library website, FORL.net. Happy Tails/READing Paws May 15, 4:30 p.m., Alpharetta Children can sign up to read to Echo, a trained and registered therapy dog. Work on reading skills with a great listener who loves hearing all kinds of stories. Sign up continued on page 8
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Calendar of
continued from page 6
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‘Share the Dream’ Golf Tournament — Proceeds from the golf tournament will raise funds to defray travel expenses for Cambridge High School Band’s participation in the 2015 London New Year’s Day Parade. 8:00 a.m. registration, 10:00 a.m. shotgun start, Manor Golf and Country Club, 15951 Manor Club Drive, Alpharetta. CambridgeBand.org
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MedAssets Hire Heroes USA 5K Race for Heroes — Proceeds from the charity race will support Hire Heroes USA’s efforts to assist veterans. The race begin at MedAssets office next to North Point Mall, following a circular route around North Point Parkway, Haynes Bridge Road and Mansell Road to finish back at the MedAssets office. 7:00 a.m., MedAssets, 100 North Point Center East, Alpharetta. 678-966-8007, MedAssetsRaceForHeroes.com
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Book Fair — Hosted by Roswell Historical Society, the book fair will feature “Roswell Redemption” author Cindi Crane signing copies of her book, readings from “Rucker, The Lost Country Dog,” and children’s activities. Portions of all book sales will benefit Roswell Historical Society. 1:00-4:00 p.m., Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7660 North Point Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta. RoswellHistoricalSociety.org
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Alpharetta Art in the Park — Presented by Gallery 35, this free event will feature artists creating masterpieces right before
your eyes at the outdoor market. 9:00 a.m.4:00 p.m., May 24; 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., May 25, Old Milton Park, 35 Milton Ave., Alpharetta.
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Kids’ Dog Show — Awards for Most Obedient, Best Trick in One Minute, Largest, Smallest, Best Costume and Best in Show! Dogs must be at least 1 year old. Ages 5-15. 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com
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Movies under the Stars — Bring a picnic along with lawn chairs and blankets for a night of free music and a movie. Sponsored by B98.5, the featured movie will be “Despicable Me 2” (PG). 9:00 p.m., Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. 770-641-3705
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Memorial Day Celebration — Come out for Georgia’s largest Memorial Day Ceremony honoring veterans and the sacrifices they made in protecting our freedom. Activities will include exhibits, music by Atlanta Wind Symphony and Chattahoochee Celtic Pipes and Drums, the laying of the wreath, special guest speakers and more. Free to the public. 10:00 a.m., Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St., Roswell. RoswellGov.com Sep
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Farmers Market — More than 20 local farmers and vendors will showcase organic foods, produce and other items for purchase. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. 678-512-3200, JohnsCreekGa.gov
May
Events
for your 15-minute session! Ages 5 and up. Registration is required. Email: Anne. Vaghts@FultonCountyGa.gov. LEGO Club May 19, 4:00 p.m., Roswell May’s theme is: A Trip to the Beach. The library will provide the LEGOs and you’ll build something related to the theme. Ages 5-10. Just Read It Book Club May 19, 4:30 p.m., Ocee Come out to the library for book discussions and snacks. Ages 9-12. This program is limited to 15 children. Registration is required. To register and reserve a copy of each month’s book, please send an email with your name and age to: Marcia.Divack@ FultonCountyGa.gov. Reader’s Theatre: the Library Comes Alive! May 21, 4:00 p.m., Roswell Actors from Georgia Ensemble Theatre will do a staged reading of Aesop’s Fables. Afterward, audience members will get a chance to ask questions about the play, the roles and acting. Snacks will be provided. Ages 5-10. Registration begins May 7. Teen Thursday: Teens Read Book Club May 22, 6:00 p.m., Ocee Come out to the library for book discussions and snacks. Ages 13-18. This program is limited to 15 teens; registration is required. To register and reserve a copy of each month’s book, please send an email with your name and age to: Marcia.Divack@ FultonCountyGa.gov. School’s Out Teen Barbecue May 24, 1:30 p.m., Ocee Celebrate the end of the school year with food, fun and friends. Bring a blanket or beach towel for this picnic-style event. Vegetarian options will be available. Teens ages 12-18. Registration is not required, but supplies are limited and food will be served on a first-come first-served basis. This is an outdoor event and is subject to cancellation/postponement without notice in the event of bad weather.
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Which Internet Service Provider is Right for You? By Michael Buckner As a self-described nerd, my life all day every day depends on reliable Internet service. Literally, if the Internet were to shut down tomorrow, I would scramble to keep my business alive. On top of this, my business depends on my clients having reliable Internet. Whenever their electronics cannot access Netflix or YouTube, for example, I get the phone call that their system is faulty, when often it’s their Internet service provider (ISP) that is to blame. For this reason, I have an interesting perspective on making sure
that you know how to maintain reliable Internet service in your home.
choices. I am one of those people with DSL, only for lack of choice.
When it comes to both speed and reliability, Comcast is king. You’ll rarely hear me say that I love Comcast, because its video service isn’t great. Having said that, if you can get Comcast Internet at your home, you should. Comcast’s speeds are between 50100mb/second!
Last on the list is satellite Internet. Because of the tons of TV commercials, I get asked about satellite Internet a lot. I just did a test run on the latest state-ofthe-art system by HughesNet and was very disappointed. My DSL is faster.
The next best thing is AT&T U-verse, with decent speeds of 12-24 mb/ second. It’s faster than DSL, but slower than Comcast. If you get the U-verse video service, watching U-verse TV can bog down your speed. That’s right: Watching TV while downloading a song interferes with each other! The next choice is DSL — AT&T and Windstream in the Milton area. Depending on where you are, your speed will be between 3-12 mb/sec. Only go this route if you have no other
After you’ve landed the best service in your area, chances are your “free” WiFi router will not cut it. Don’t get mad at your ISP if your WiFi Internet doesn’t reach throughout your entire house. After all, that’s not really their job (it’s ours!). As an alternative, you can add on an Apple WiFi network that will allow your WiFi to reach every corner of your home.
Michael Buckner is owner of Audio Intersection, a provider of audio and video in Georgia. 770-479-1000, AudioIntersection.com
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Business What's New Sky Wash car wash in Roswell celebrated the recent World Water Day with a week-long “Wash Away Thirst” campaign. Sky Wash donated $5 for every car wash and $10 for every new membership to SERV International Skywash in Roswell raised $7,058 to support SERV Inand Just One: Africa — for a total donation of $7,058. The donation ternational and Just One: Africa clean water campaigns. equates to 106 million gallons of clean water for families in Kenya Photo courtesy of BenFarnham.com and the Dominican Republic. The event coincided with a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating Jim Dudley as Sky Wash’s new owner. Senator John Albers, Roswell Mayor Jere Wood and Councilman Jerry Orlans attended the ribbon cutting. 11865 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. 770-674-6500, Skywash.com
Virtual Dementia Tour® Sensitivity Training Program
CaraVita Home Care in Roswell is offering a Virtual Dementia Tour® Sensitivity Training Program to help people understand Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The Virtual Dementia Tour® is an immersion experience simulation of dementia created to teach people about the physical and mental challenges facing those living with dementia. The Virtual Dementia Tour® was created by award-winning geriatric specialist PK. Beville, M.S., founder and CEO of Second Wind Dreams®, an organization changing society’s perception of aging through the granting of dreams for elders. Proceeds from the sale of VDT products are used to support dreams programs around the world. Several training programs will be offered at no cost (donations are accepted): May 14, August 13, September 10, October 8 and November 12, all at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended. 648 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-643-1712, CaraVitaHomeCare.com/VDT
The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce honored North Fulton professionals and volunteers during its 41st annual Chairman’s Gala, held April 26 at The St. Regis Atlanta and sponsored by Northside Hospital. GNFCC President/CEO Brandon Beach welcomed special guests, including Governor Nathan Deal, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and other community and business leaders. Those recognized by GNFCC for outstanding service were: Harry Rucker Junior Volunteer of the Year: Carol Anderson-Wood, treasurer, Alpharetta Business Association — Named for one of the original founders of GNFCC, this award recognizes a GNFCC member who has volunteered their time, resources and expertise to strengthen the Chamber. Ambassador of the Year: Diane Rhea, business development, Chambrel Roswell. Zachary Henderson Award: Ron Wallace, retired president, UPS International; Deputy Chief of Police, City of Alpharetta; and founder, The Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub, Milton — This award recognizes those who realize that having a successful business involves giving back to the community. As the founding father of the North Fulton Chamber, Henderson was an advocate for the business community. Pioneer Award: Katie Reeves, Fulton County Board of Education District 2. Board Member of the Year: Roger Lusby, Partner, Frazier & Deeter, LLC. GNFCC Board Chair/Director Freda Hardage, director, Northside Hospital Alpharetta Medical Campus and Foundation Services, also was honored at the event. “I am privileged to serve our Chamber members and our community. I especially want to thank our immediate past chairman of the board, Brad Beisbier of First Citizens Bank, for his vision and leadership as he guided the GNFCC’s 2013 board of directors.” 10
North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Be the first to find the photo where these pieces belong! Please email art@familylifepublications.com to submit your answer. Be sure to include the magazine title, your name and contact information (address, phone & email). Only emailed answers with full information will be accepted. Individuals can win only once per calendar year. Happy Hunting!
Congratulations to our April winner, Megan Vick!
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Mayor’s
Minute By Mayor Mike Bodker
Enjoy Johns Creek’s Networking & Entertainment Opportunities
W
ith so many things going on in Johns Creek, one of my biggest challenges each month is to choose a topic to write about. Given how quickly news comes at us every day and the increasing demands on personal time, I am very grateful for the opportunity to get this letter to you every month, so I strive to be sure that I am getting you information that is important to you. As the school year winds down and we, hopefully, find ourselves with more free time — if for no other reason because the traffic eases so significantly — I think it is a great opportunity to revisit our hometown. We spend so much time getting in, out and through Johns Creek that we may not see all that the city has to offer. Are you interested in a civic or business group? We’ve got some of the leading ones in the region right here. The Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce and the Johns Creek Business Association both offer constant opportunities for
breakfast meetings, “lunch-and-learns” and after-hours events. You don’t need to be a member to attend most events, and the business leadership and networking are some of the very best in the state. Johns Creek Rotary has had an exciting re-launch, and its weekly lunch meetings are inviting and informative. If lunch proves a challenge, the Johns Creek Civitan Club, formed in 2013, holds two breakfast meetings each month with a special guest speaker. In April, I was honored to attend Johns Creek Civitan Club’s “Special Needs Teacher of the Year” breakfast and had the pleasure of meeting an inspiring group of educators and the honor of applauding their work.
relaxing dinner at one of Johns Creek’s outstanding restaurants followed by a nice walk on the greenway is as easy as venturing out the door. A visit to Newtown Park for the popular Farmers Market will give you a sneak peak of our new amphitheater scheduled to open this summer and the beautiful new mural painted by one of our Leadership Johns Creek classes and local art students.
Not sure about another meeting? Then, how about visiting one of our arts organizations and finding a hidden treasure? After a visit to the Johns Creek Arts Center gallery, or an evening enjoying one of this summer’s offerings at Performing Arts North, a
Meanwhile, at City Hall we will be working to make our city better every day. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch with questions or comments at Mike. Bodker@JohnsCreekGa.gov, or visit JohnsCreekGa.gov to keep up with goings-on about town.
No matter how you plan to spend your time, I hope you enjoy the start of the summer holidays after this particularly long winter for all of us. As our youngsters take to the pools, parks and to their bicycles to celebrate their summer, please remember to use extra caution behind the wheel.
Mike Bodker is the mayor of Johns Creek. 678-512-3200, Mike.Bodker@JohnsCreekGa.gov, JohnsCreekGa.gov.
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Summer Safety Tips The summer months bring with them lots of fun playtime, which can often lead to accidental injuries. If your child has an injury that causes a tooth to become knocked out, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. If the tooth is a primary (baby) tooth, the emphasis may not be toward saving the tooth. However, it’s still important for your child to be seen by a dentist to check for damage to any adjacent teeth. If your child loses a permanent (adult) tooth, saving the tooth and assessing your child’s overall medical condition is critical. Injuries to the mouth can result in injuries to the head. First, determine if your child’s injury requires emergency room care. If the injury is focused only on
the mouth, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. Most dentists should have a 24-hour emergency phone number. Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. Do not scrub it with soap; use only water. If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a washcloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva or water. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth. If your child chips or fractures a tooth, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection, and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the dentist.
By Vishant Nath, D.M.D.
Some dental emergencies are not caused by injuries or trauma. Toothaches can be quite painful and bothersome; again, contact your child’s pediatric dentist immediately. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water and apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not give your child aspirin or apply heat to the sore area. All of these scenarios have something in common: immediate attention by a dentist. Having a pediatric dentist who is familiar with you and your child can greatly assist you in nursing your child back to great dental health!
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry. 678-352-1090, KidsHappyTeeth.com
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Gold Dome T Update: Sine Die By Senator John Albers
he 2014 Legislative Session of the Georgia General Assembly adjourned at midnight on March 20. It was a moment of celebration that closed months of hard work at the State Capitol. The last day of the legislative session, on Day 40, is also known as Sine Die. On Sine Die, the House and Senate remain in their respective chambers to deliberate and vote on important pieces of legislation until midnight. Prior to Sine Die, members of the Senate and the House came together on Day 30 in a conference committee to agree to the $20.8 billion Fiscal Year 2015 budget. This represents a 4.6 percent increase from last year’s budget, which will run from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015. Georgia maintains a balanced budget and no deficit, and I am proud of our fiscal responsibility. On Sine Die, a bill that would have required insurers to provide coverage for children diagnosed with Autism failed to reach passage. I am deeply saddened the House could not come to a consensus and pass this important legislation. Providing insurance coverage for children suffering with Autism has been two years in the making, and I intend to continue to push for it during the next biennial term. I try to focus my legislative efforts on families, business and public safety. In the final days of the 2014 session, several of the bills I authored achieved final passage and are headed to the Governor:
SB 207 adds private home care providers to the list of long-term care facilities that fall under the purview of the Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsmen Program.
SB 235 allows firefighters who perform at least 1,040 hours of annual service to be eligible for membership in the Georgia Firefighters’ Pension Fund.
SB 325 clarifies the process for regulating fire protection sprinkler contractors and fire suppression contractors that operate in Georgia. Under this legislation, contractors that violate laws may be denied an application for a license, certificate or permit.
SB 358 expands who can file a missing child report with the Missing Children Information Center (MCIC) to include individuals and institutions charged with the care of foster children. This bill will allow for a more streamlined, efficient process for foster care providers in the event a child is abducted or runs away from their foster care home or facility.
SB 386 protects sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, taxpayer ID numbers and financial account numbers, included in court filings.
SR 788
authorizes the transfer of specific state-owned real property throughout the state for local development purposes. This bill will help create jobs and opportunities for Georgians.
SR 868 allows for the construction, operation and maintenance of facilities or utilities that go through or intersect property owned by the State of Georgia in the following counties: Appling, Barrow, Bibb, Bryan, Fulton, Gordon, Jasper, Laurens, McIntosh, Monroe, Toombs, and Troup. This bill will help Georgians in their local communities.
Senator John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of North Fulton county. 404-463-8055, John.Albers@Senate.Ga.Gov
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Cost vs. Quality We all have to make decisions every day in regard to how we spend our money. Getting the best product or service at the lowest price can be difficult. This creates a fine line that many homeowners have to walk because more times than not the cheapest routes are accompanied by risks that have to be evaluated before a decision can be made. I am a firm believer in two age-old sayings, “You get what you pay for,” and, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” I think these are especially true in the home services industry, of which I am a part. As a homeowner, you want to make sure that anyone who does work on your biggest investment (your home) is using the most up-to-date equipment and materials. Unfortunately, the businesses that offer the best
By Nick Roper
services on the market often have higher overhead costs than those with inferior equipment and material, which affects their pricing. That said, the fact that one company is cheaper than another doesn’t mean it won’t do just as good a job with the same tools and material as the more expensive company. The best advice I can give homeowners is to do your homework. Plenty of websites, including Angie’s List, offer reviews on contractors that you can reference before making a decision. Furthermore, word of mouth is a very valuable tool. Chances are that you know someone who has used a particular company, so ask about the level of service they received. A simple social media post asking for suggestions or reviews can also give you plenty of information.
Everyone wants a deal, and if you look long and hard enough you can find one. Just make sure not to sacrifice quality when deciding on a product or service. If you have to pay to have the job redone correctly by someone else, you will only cost yourself more time, money and aggravation in the end.
Nick Roper is manager of business development for H&H Electric and Security LLC. 770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net
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Date Night
The
of
It’s actually happening: that rare occurrence known as “date night!” We all have our own reasons as to why date nights are so few and far between. When you get some time to yourselves for a special date night, be sure to check out these Scoop-approved places! Salt Factory Pub has a lot of factors going for it. The hip atmosphere is sure to make you feeling like you’re having a real night out, but don’t let the trendy vibe and crowded bar fool you; the food is superior. Even if you just want to go for an appetizer and a cocktail, you can’t go wrong with the restaurant’s locally produced meat, cheese selection and impressive list of spirits. Patio seating makes Salt Factory Pub a local hotspot this time of year, so go early if you can. Salt Factory Pub is located at 952 Canton St. in Historic Roswell and at 102 S. Main St. in Alpharetta. FHFoodTradingGroup.com
Movie Tavern at 4651 Woodstock Road in Roswell makes dinner and a
Photos courtesy of Jeremy Adamo
movie simple for people who rarely can find time for both. Movie Tavern is a movie theatre and full restaurant
Land of a Thousand Hills coffee shop at 352 S. Atlanta St. in Roswell offers
in one. Arrive early and dine in the
couples a relaxing end to date night — and the chance to do something good
restaurant before the movie, or take
simply by drinking a good cup of coffee. Land of a Thousand Hills works directly with
advantage of the push-button wait
farmers in Rwanda, pays higher than Fair Trade prices, and invests in sustainable
service at your theatre seat while you
village projects. Coffee is served by French Press,
watch the movie. This is the perfect
Chemex, drip and manual pour-overs, and
way to enjoy an all-in-one dinner and
skilled baristas will pour “latte art”
a movie date night! It’s like having
in your cup. On the weekends,
your cake — the chef-inspired menu
enjoy live music and the warm
includes desserts — and eating it,
springtime weather out on the patio.
too! You can also select your seats
DrinkCoffeeDoGoodRoswell.com
in advance online or at the theatre’s ticket kiosk. MovieTavern.com
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North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
rugs, wall coverings, accessories, lighting, upholstered furniture and case good furniture. With access to more than 100 top quality home furnishing manufacturers, Keely and her team are sure to find your perfect design solution!
D
id you know that Decorating Den Interiors, the world’s premier home furnishings company, has been decorating homes and businesses throughout the United States and Canada for more than 43 years? With national recognition, Keely Woodford and her team have won multiple awards for excellence in interior design and have been published in more than 15 national and local magazines, such as Traditional Home and Romantic Home. Keely has also been selected as Decorating Den Interiors’ “Franchise Owner of the Year” for 2009, 2011 and 2013. At Decorating Den Interiors, Keely and her team specialize in one thing: the client. “It’s our ultimate goal to design spaces that reflect your lifestyle, and we pride ourselves on doing everything within your budget,” says Keely. “We come to your home, talk with you about your project, and then create a design plan that matches our collaborative design ideas
Keely’s mission is to “make the world more beautiful, one room at a time!” She works personally with you to customize a delightful, enjoyable and affordable design experience. If you’re looking for a decorator who is easy to work with, works within your budget, decorates around your lifestyle, expands upon your ideas, and makes decorating a fun experience, please call Keely Woodford and her design team. with the perfect product — all created specifically for you and your lifestyle. Everything about us is custom — from initial design ideas all the way through installation. We handle it all, making your life easier and saving you valuable time. Plus, I always offer my clients an initial complimentary design consultation.” Decorating Den offers a vast product assortment, including window treatments, bedding ensembles, carpets, area
770-926-0383
www.keely.decoratingden.com “Keely seemed to know exactly what I wanted before I could tell her. She has a vision that just amazes me. She always stayed within the budget. I could have never gotten through the project without her!” — Nancy, Powder Springs
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SpecialEquestriansOfGeorgia.org
S
pecial Equestrians of Georgia (SEG) is a nonprofit therapeutic riding program located in Milton. SEG serves special needs’ children and adults by providing equestrian therapy in a loving, accepting and encouraging environment. SEG’s motto is: “Riding not only for the mind and body, but the soul.” Stacey Edwards, a PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemen) registered instructor, started SEG seven years ago because she wanted a program that offered a wider range of therapy options to the special needs’ population. On its first day of operation, with the support of dedicated volunteers, SEG had five horses and 22 students. SEG uses specially trained horses, instructors and volunteers to help student-riders achieve a variety of occupational and physical therapy goals that seemed impossible to students before coming to SEG. Students, and their families, benefit from SEG’s equestrian therapy in numerous ways that many clinical occupational and physical therapy settings do not
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provide. For example, students at SEG feel encouraged by being a part of a team for the first time. Most student-riders don’t even realize they are getting “therapy”; they just enjoy the experience and look forward to seeing their horses, instructors, volunteers and friends. SEG students are happy, and that makes therapy so much more effective. SEG’s different programs include Therapeutic Riding, Hippo-Therapy (with a licensed occupational/ physical therapist), Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and a Community Outreach program. More than 50 students participate in SEG’s programs regularly, as well as equine-assisted activities offered at two private schools and a residential treatment program for adults. SEG also has a Special Olympics team and participates in the Abilities EXPO and McKeever’s First Run competitions. One of SEG’s most popular programs is Mini Horse Community Outreach Program. Using specially trained, “house-broken” miniature horses, SEG has taken its miniature horses to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta campuses, Scottish Rite, Henrietta Egleston Hospital for Children, and the Hughes Spalding Center in downtown Atlanta. SEG has visited Shepard Spinal Center, World Congress Center,
Joan Glancey Rehabilitation Center, and countless elementary schools, nursing homes, churches and more. Edwards believes the benefits of the horses are far reaching and could bring happiness to other patients — who otherwise would not have access to the SEG farm or equestrian therapy — just as they have to students on the SEG farm. “It has been a great success, and we feel very blessed to have been able to meet so many special people in our travels,” she says. SEG provides the service to patients at no cost. “It really is an honor for us to be asked to visit places that are helping the most fragile of our community.” Special Equestrians of Georgia is more than just equestrian therapy; it is family, Edwards says. “Everyone who is involved in SEG feels like it is family,” she says. “Our goal and mission always has been to serve as many special needs’ children and adults who need our services in the best way we can. Some of our riders come to us at just 2 years old, while others start in their 60s. The horse is an amazing therapeutic tool to students of all ages. Just being in the presence of horses is therapeutic to students, but, combined with our loving and encouraging instructors and volunteers, who work hard to help students achieve their individual goals — and celebrate with them when they do — the experience becomes something truly remarkable!”
How do we respond when we see someone in need of help? Several years ago, a parable titled The Pit spoke rather clearly to me: A man fell into a pit and couldn’t get himself out of it. A subjective person came along and said, “I feel for you down there in the pit.” An objective person came along and said, “It’s logical that someone would fall into that pit.” A Pharisee said, “Only bad people fall into pits.” A mathematician calculated how he fell into the pit. A news reporter wanted the exclusive story of how he fell into the pit. A fundamentalist said, “You deserve your pit.”
have a permit to dig that pit?” A professor gave him a lecture on the elementary principles of gravity.
By Ron Bradley, D. Min. Confucius said, “If you’d have listened to me, you would not be in that pit.” Buddha said, “Your pit is only a state of mind.” A realist said, “Now, that’s a pit!” A scientist calculated the pressure necessary, pounds per square inch necessary to get him out. A geologist told him to appreciate the rock strata in the pit. An evolutionist said, “You are a rejected mutant destined to be removed from the evolutionary cycle.”
A self-pitying person said, “You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen my pit.” An optimist said, “Things could be worse.” A pessimist said, “Don’t worry; things are going to get worse.” Jesus, seeing the man, reached down, took him by the hand, and lifted him up out of the pit. The Bible says in Psalm 40:2, “He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay and set my feet upon a rock.”
Ron Bradley is the pastor at First Baptist Church Roswell. 770-587-6980, Ron@RFBC.org
The county inspector said, “Did you
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Community Warren Hutmacher is New Johns Creek City Manager
Warren Hutmacher
The City of Johns Creek has hired Warren Hutmacher as its new city manager. Hutmacher began his new position with the City of Johns Creek on April 28.
Hutmacher had served as city manager for the City of Dunwoody since 2008, as well as city manager for Norcross, 2006-2008, and Avondale Estates, 2003-2006. Originally from New Jersey, he is a member of the International City Managers Association and the Georgia City/County Managers Association. “Hutmacher has a broad understanding of our culture and unique insight into our city’s foundation and the goals we have for our city,” said Mayor Mike Bodker. “He was clearly the best candidate and we are thrilled to have him on board.”
Eagle Scout Project Reveals Hidden Gravesites Robbie Osborne and other scouts from Boy Scout Troop 356 uncovered three potential gravesites of the original Corinth Church and Cemetery, established in 1886, during a recent cleanup day organized as part of an Eagle Scout project. With only a historical marker and overgrown brush to mark the area where the original Corinth Church and Cemetery were located on the corner of Robbie Osborne, at the historical North Coleman Road and Pine marker for the Corinth Church and Grove Road, Robbie and his fellow Cemetery near North Coleman Road and Pine Grove Road in Roswell scouts cleared out the overgrown brush to reveal what could be three gravesites. Robbie also was instrumental in replacing seven historical markers in Roswell, while he and fellow scouts cleaned and refurbished the remaining 30 historical markers throughout Roswell. In other community news, Roswell Roots Festival won the Gold award for Best Cultural Event at the 2014 Kaleidoscope Awards, presented by the Southeast Festival and Events Association.
Milton Honors Volunteers of the Year The City of Milton honored the work of several volunteers recently during its second annual volunteer appreciation luncheon. “These hard-working residents ensure everything we do in the City of Milton is well planned, well executed and memorable,” said Angela Thompson, special events and projects manager. “We couldn’t do our jobs as a municipal government without them.” Jack and Francia Lindon, founding members of Milton Grows Green, were honored with the Volunteers of the Year Award. Francia has been instrumental in Milton having earned the Atlanta Milton Mayor Pro Tem Regional Commission’s CREATE Award and helping Milton become a National Wildlife Federation Joe Longoria, left, with Community Habitat. She also serves as communications chairwoman and secretary for Milton Volunteers of the Year Grows Green, creating logos, signage, brochures and branding. Jack serves as chairman of Milton Francia and Jack Lindon Grows Green, organizing household paint and chemical collection events, providing logistics for the annual Earth Day Festival, launching the Adopt A Stream Program, and planning the yearly Rivers Alive cleanups in the fall. “The Lindons have volunteered hundreds of hours annually to make the City of Milton a cleaner and greener community, and we are extremely grateful for their efforts,” said Cindy Eade, environmental sustainability coordinator. Others recognized for their volunteer efforts were David Winsness, Parks and Recreation volunteer of the year, and Peyton Jamison, special honoree. In addition, one member from each volunteer board/committee was nominated by the staff liaison as representative of the year: Teri Harrison, Better Together; Paul Moore, Planning Commission; Marty Littleton, Design Review Board; Gary Willis, Board of Zoning Appeals; Travis Allen, Historic Preservation Commission; and Tass Welch, Disability Awareness Committee. 20
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Academic Hillside Elementary Teacher Named Northeast Learning Community Teacher of the Year Jen Sweigart, a thirdgrade teacher at Hillside Elementary School, has been named Northeast Learning Community Teacher of the Year by the Fulton County School District (FCS). Every year, each school in Fulton County nominates one outstanding Jen Sweigart educator based on input from students, parents and staff. Then, these teachers are evaluated by FCS through classroom visits and interviews. One finalist is announced from each of FCS’ geographic learning communities: Northeast, Northwest, Central and South. “We are so proud of Sweigart, but we’re not surprised that she was chosen,” said Principal Maisha Otway. “Her excellence as a teacher and commitment to her students, their parents and her colleagues inspire us all to greater heights.” Sweigart joined the faculty of Hillside Elementary in 2009. She has taught third and fourth grade, as well as Early Intervention Program reading and math classes that span kindergarten through fifth grade. She said she strives to promote an atmosphere of creativity, respect, balance and community in her classroom. “I value cooperation and collaboration among the students, as well as in my relationships with parents and colleagues. At the same time, I value individual achievement attained through high expectations and perseverance. I believe that teaching blesses us with the privilege of growing the next generation of leaders.” Sweigart will be honored by Fulton County Schools during a special gala in the fall. 22
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Lake Windward Elementary Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Pictured (left to right) at Lake Windward Elementary School’s 25th anniversary celebration: Mayor David Belle Isle; Katie Reeves, FCS board member; Principal Tara McGee; and Victor Shandor, Northwest Learning Community Area Superintendent
Faculty, staff, students and special guests joined together in celebrating Lake Windward Elementary School’s 25th anniversary. The “Treasuring the Past and Building the Future” celebration included a picnic lunch, musical entertainment by DJ Mr. Cooke, and a special message by Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle. Also in attendance were former principal Marcy Messina and former students, who reminisced about their favorite school memories and inspired current students to continue to build their own future.
Johns Creek Student Wins IronCoder Competition Albert Shaw, a Georgia Tech freshman from Johns Creek, won first place in the IronCoder 2014 competition, held recently at IronCoder winner Albert Shaw, with Georgia Tech. The second annual Andrew Hamilton (left) and Mike Lapid competition, hosted by Cardlytics, (right) of Cardlytics an advertising and technology company specializing in card-linked marketing based in Atlanta, is designed to reward technology students and help identify talent for open technology and engineering positions with Cardlytics in Atlanta. Competitors were asked to complete 10 highly complex math problems, judged on accuracy and speed. Shaw, who finished second last year, won a $2,000 cash prize and an interview with the company.
Fifth-Grader is CVES ‘Principal for the Day’ Dora Reed, a fifth-grade student in Allison Snow’s class at Creek View Elementary School, recently was selected “Principal for the Day.” As “Principal for the Day,” Dora assisted Principal Debbie Doss with various duties, including sorting books for the Leveled Book Room; being on the school’s morning news show; helping with lunch duty; and visiting classrooms. Dora’s special day as “Principal for the Day” was a fun day for everyone at the school.
Dora Reed, “Principal for the Day,” is pictured with CVES Principal Debbie Doss.
FCS Honored for Music Education By Susan Hale
Fulton County has been recognized for a 15th consecutive year as one of the best places to live for music education, thanks to the Fulton County School System’s (FCS) top quality music programs. FCS is one of only two school systems in the nation to have been recognized each of the 15 years that the annual, national survey has been given. The “Best Communities for Music Education” list represents an annual snapshot of music education at its best and is based on a nationwide survey conducted earlier this year by the NAMM Foundation, a not-for-profit, international association that represents the musical instruments and products industry. “Fulton County Schools has a strong tradition of excellence in the arts. Our schools frequently are invited to perform at the most prestigious music clinics; in fact, the Cambridge High School marching band has accepted an invitation to perform in the 2015 New Year’s Day Parade in London,” said FCS Superintendent Robert Avossa. “We are proud to have music programs that showcase the immense talent of our students and staff and that are heavily supported by the community.” The “Best Communities for Music Education” designation recognizes collaborative, from-the-groundup efforts of teachers, administrators, students and parents who continually work to keep comprehensive music education an integral part of the core curriculum. The program requires schools and districts to detail funding, staffing, commitment to standards, and access to music instruction. This year, nearly 2,000 schools and school districts participated in the survey, resulting in 376 school districts across the country being designated as one of the “Best Communities for Music Education.”
Susan Hale is manager of media relations for Fulton County Schools. 404-763-6830, FultonSchools.org
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Georgia’s parks and waters offer relaxing family fun and thrilling adventures this summer.
By Michelle Martin
Georgia’s natural venues offer the perfect setting to enjoy your favorite summertime outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of fishing, birding and observing the beauty of nature, or are trying a more daring adventure like whitewater rafting, zip lining or rock climbing, you can experience the best of the summertime outdoors without leaving the state. Don’t let the summer slip away without getting away from it all by getting back to nature! 24
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Fishing Georgia’s many lakes and wildlife management areas offer great public fishing opportunities for many different types of fish. For largemouth bass, one of the top spots in the state is Marben Farms Public Fishing Area (PFA), part of the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center near Mansfield. Many of Marben Farms PFA’s 22 ponds spanning 295 acres have boat ramps that are close to main roads, as well as some accessible on more interior dirt roads and some “walk-in” lakes without parking.
Swimming & Water Sports Water skiing, boating, canoeing, swimming — whatever your favorite on-the-water hobby, you can enjoy it on the 38,000-acre Lake Sidney Lanier reservoir and Lake Lanier Islands Resort in Buford. Harbor Landing offers rentals for boats of all shapes and sizes — kayaks, pontoons, day boats and large-excursion yachts, etc. — along with tubing and water skiing equipment. The resort also includes a beach volleyball area. For a real family fun adventure, make time for the water park, dive-in movies and many other activities at LanierWorld.
Rock Climbing Whitewater Rafting/Tubing Chattooga River on the Georgia-South Carolina border offers scenic, guided whitewater rafting and tubing for beginners to advanced rafters, with Class II-IV rapids divided into three sections. Section II drops approximately 12 feet per mile over seven miles, while the popular Section III covers more than 10 different Class III-IV rapids. Section IV, the most difficult course, features a 75-foot drop through the “Five Falls” (Entrance, Corkscrew, Crack-In-the-Rock, Jawbone and Sock-Em Dog). Guided tours, including overnight packages, can tell the river’s storied Native American and film (“Deliverance”) history.
Made famous by the Tom Hanks-Steven Spielberg critically acclaimed TV mini-series, “Band of Brothers,” Currahee Mountain is situated near Toccoa in the Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area. Currahee Mountain rises abruptly approximately 800 feet above local topography, and on clear days its 1,735-foot summit is visible from miles away. Four climbing spots — Slab Area, Buzzard Wall, Small Wall and Brick Wall — appeal to a variety of skill levels. Slab Area is the most popular, with several climbing routes and bolted anchors, while Brick Wall is very steep and has no anchors.
Zip Lining Guinness World Records has certified Screaming Eagle Tours’ zip line canopy tours at Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg as the longest continuous zip-line tour in the world. At nearly 10 miles long (50,000-plus lineal feet), the zip-line course features six different levels that soar above the historic town and lost gorge for the ultimate Superman-like experience! The zip-line park is open year-round. Reservations are recommended, so plan your adventure in advance.
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Disc Golfing Appling is home of the Professional Disc Golf Association and International Disc Golf Center. The sport, which originated in the 1970s, follows the same format as traditional golf, but uses round discs (similar to the Frisbee) and baskets. Georgia’s 59 disc golf courses include dedicated disc golf facilities and courses designed at public and state parks, many with no additional recreational fee. Local disc golf parks include East Roswell Park and Perkerson Park in Atlanta.
Geocaching & Orienteering For a different kind of family fun, hit the Georgia State Parks for an afternoon of geocaching or orienteering. Geocaching is a “GPS scavenger hunt” of hidden caches for prizes. Each time you find one, you leave a prize for the next person. Georgia has 43 State Parks in the Parks GeoTour and 14 historic sites on the History Trail GeoTour, which features indoor boxes with combination locks. Orienteering uses a compass and map to navigate through the woods from one point to another. Georgia State Parks offering orienteering activities include Cloudland Canyon, Panola Mountain, Red Top Mountain, Sweetwater Creek and Unicoi state parks, as well as a compass course at New Echota State Historic Site.
Caving Georgia Speleological Society has found 513 caves throughout the state, with most located in northwest Georgia. Walker County’s Pigeon Mountain features two of the most popular caves in the state, if not the entire country — Ellison’s Cave and Pettijohn’s Cave. Ellison’s Cave includes two of the deepest cave drops in the continental United States: The Fantastic, which drops 586 feet, and The Incredible, which drops 440 feet. Pettijohn’s Cave has more than six miles of passages. The TAG region where Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia meet is regarded as one of the best among caving enthusiasts.
Birding/Observing Nature Callaway Gardens is a great place to take in nature’s beauty and wildlife while enjoying the many other recreational activities offered there. In May, visitors are likely to see cardinals, robins, titmice and woodpeckers, along with blue herons patrolling lakes and ponds for fish. Other opportunities to experience nature close-up include fireflies, female water turtles and fox squirrels in June, and Tiger swallowtail butterflies and dragonflies in July. Don’t miss the spectacular display of seasonal flowers in bloom, including the large hydrangeas May through September at the Thornhill Hydrangea Garden.
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Most homeowners are unsure if they should purchase a water softener or a water filter for their home. It depends on what kinds of contaminants are present in your water supply. Water filters remove contaminants from water to help make it safer for drinking. Water softeners remove minerals from water. These minerals can mix with soap and other substances to form deposits. The deposits are not harmful; however, they can make your fixtures look dirty and are a nuisance. Both water filters and softeners remove dissolved substances from the water, but softeners specifically remove hard water minerals to make the water “softer.”
Filtration Systems
for Your Home
If water hardness is your only issue, a water softener will probably be most appropriate. However, it’s important to note that water softeners increase the water’s sodium content. A water filter or distillation system removes all contaminants. A water filter system is more costly and can add to your electric bill. Activated carbon and UV systems will deal with certain other kinds of contaminants, but do not affect water hardness.
By Julie Lippitt
Julie & Rick Lippitt are owners of Pete’s Plumbing in Alpharetta. 770-442-3934, PetesPlumbing.com
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Involving the viewer on some emotional level is the ulterior motive of artist Diane Buffington. Her paintings often depict human interaction or interpersonal relationships, and they are designed to tell a story and prompt questions. Originally from St. Paul, Minn., Buffington grew up in Huntsville, Ala. “My father was one of the first employees of NASA,” she says. “Over the years, Huntsville has grown into a very cosmopolitan little town.” With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Alabama, she moved to Atlanta to work in advertising and later founded the Buffington Rizzo Advertising and Design Agency, which she ran with her husband, Don Rizzo, for 25 years. Buffington retired in 2007 and decided to focus on her artwork. “During my career in advertising, I painted occasionally,” she says. “Many of my advertising clients were in the interior design industry. Art as a decorative item is a valid thought, so I used to create my own pieces when I needed something to fit in my home.” She began incorporating her advertising knowledge into her artwork to “hit emotional hot buttons”. “My art reflects on our times, on what is going on in the world today,” she explains. “It is conceptual and often based on politics, the news of the day or a certain realization about human nature.” Buffington says she is intrigued by Flemish Renaissance painters, such as Hieronymus Bosch or Pieter Bruegel the 28
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Elder, and the heavy use of symbolism in their paintings, but she also notes Edward Hopper’s work as an inspiration. Art she personally likes has some abstract and some human nature in it; consequently, her paintings have abstract components combined with figurative elements and the subtle use of symbolism. “My subjects have a realistic appearance with surreal aspects. Just like in the advertising business, my scope of artwork relates to people,” she says, adding that she uses a blend of photographs and imagination when composing her oil paintings and derives the poses of her figures by observing her immediate environment. “Sometimes, it is someone’s visual expression or my husband sitting in a certain position that can be an inspiration for a figure in my paintings. I always try to convey: What is this person thinking or what is this person doing?” Recently, Buffington set out on a new adventure by opening “Wild Hope Art Gallery” in Alpharetta, another husbandwife venture. “This gallery is a labor of love. It’s our goal to bring original art to the suburbs,” she says. Currently, the gallery represents 20 artists in various media, from painting to sculpture, glass, pottery, artisan jewelry, and Buffington is also planning activities and events to involve the community. Diane Buffington sells her work exclusively through “Wild Hope Art Gallery,” where she also maintains her studio.
DianeBuffingtonFineArt.com Heike Hellmann-Brown is a published writer in the United States and Europe. She has translated and edited several New York Times bestsellers and has taught both English and her native German as a foreign language in a career that has spanned more than 20 years.
Is It a Good Idea to Prepare
Your Own Will? By Chris Miller, Esq. Many people ask us about the abundance of forms and online services advertising your ability to prepare your own Will. In keeping with the old adage, “You get what you pay for,” there are a number of important reasons to see an attorney to ensure that your Will is prepared correctly. First, an online service doesn’t know you. An attorney will listen to the details of your specific family situation, learn what is truly important to you, then make recommendations that address subtle concerns you may have, like how to handle the inheritance of
that one child who isn’t very good with money, or making sure the sister you haven’t spoken to in 30 years doesn’t become your heir unintentionally. In our years of preparing Wills, we have found that no two are exactly alike, because every family is different. There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” Will, which is why a form document cannot address every situation. When you prepare your Will yourself, there is no one who can give testimony at the time of probate to clarify what your intent truly was if a provision is called into question. Self-prepared Wills are contested by family members substantially more often than attorneyprepared Wills, and your estate would have to bear the cost of defending that contest in court. If an attorney cannot testify about your intent, or that you were not under duress or undue influence at the time you prepared your Will, your Will could be disregarded in court.
Also, each state has specific required formalities in the signature portion of a Will. If the signatures and witness acknowledgments are not done properly, the probate court may refuse to accept your Will. Creating a relationship with an attorney gives you a resource to call on when circumstances change, questions arise, or new laws are enacted. A good attorney can keep you informed about changes in tax laws that may affect your planning strategy and help you review your situation periodically. In the long run, that relationship can save you and your family thousands of dollars and provide peace of mind. It is truly the best way to make sure that your wishes are carried out.
Chris Miller is an attorney at Robinson & Miller, P.C., Attorneys at Law. 770-817-4999, RobinsonMiller.com
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Need a Spa Day? Try a Training Class! By Arlene Dickerson
Equating a training class to a spa day may seem like apples and oranges, but the two have more in common than you may think. For most people, a trip to the spa is a special break from the usual and often comes after a period of high stress. People take the day to unwind and not think about anything other than the task at hand, whether that task is getting a massage, a mud bath or something else. Training offers a similar escape, especially if it occurs outside of the office. Similar to spa policies, most instructors require students to turn off their cell phones. That means the usual distractions don’t crop up, so students can focus on what is happening in the classroom. Even if the training class is advanced, not being tethered to a cell phone or email can go a long way to reducing stress. A training class that comes after a major deadline or project has been completed can be seen as a reward for employees. They can get out of the office and get to learn something new. A training class can benefit employers, too. Learning a new skill or advancing existing skills can help employers and staff to spark ideas for improvement or new projects. Having employees return to work excited to put new skills into action is a contagious benefit. Those employees can motivate the co-workers who held down the fort while they were out. Plus, they can develop leadership skills while at work as they pass along their new skills or spearhead the projects they proposed. A day of training may not sound like a day at the spa, but when employees return refreshed and inspired, any manager will be glad they sent their employees out for a day or two.
Arlene Dickerson is the co-owner/director of Technical Resource Solutions. 678-928-9491, TechnicalRS.com
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Pro Alliance May 7, 14, 21 & 28 7:30-9:00 a.m., GNFCC Office Join GNFCC every Wednesday for early morning networking! Enjoy a light breakfast and casual networking before breaking into small groups. This format allows you to share information about your business/work in a non-threatening environment, develop leads for potential new business and help others reach their goals.
Da Vinci’s Donuts 131 S. Main St. Suite F Alpharetta
Expedia CruiseShipCenters 10945 State Bridge Rd. Suite 105 Alpharetta
LGE Community Credit Union 1010 Mansell Rd. Suite 100 Roswell
Volcano Asian Bistro 5316-A Windward Pkwy. Milton
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Women in Business Luncheon May 7, 11:30 a.m., Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek The vision and purpose for this second annual event is to celebrate professional women and their incredible contributions to business in the North Fulton and metro Atlanta regions. Featured speaker will be Janet Sherlock, senior vice president and Janet Sherlock chief information officer for Carter’s, the market leader of baby and children’s apparel and accessories under the Carter’s and OshKosh B’Gosh brands. The event also will include a roundtable discussion at 11:00 a.m. on women in the nonprofit sector. Registration is open to GNFCC members and non-members. Chamber 101 May 13, 10:00-11:00 a.m. GNFCC Office Are you new to GNFCC or new to a GNFCC member company? GNFCC’s monthly Chamber 101 sessions, held the second Tuesday of each month, will help you learn how to make the most of your GNFCC membership! Health & Wellness Symposium May 14, 7:00-11:30 a.m. Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek “Creative Strategies to Bend the Healthcare Cost Trend Line” will be the theme of this second annual event, featuring keynote speaker David Ahern, Ph.D., founder and senior scientist of Abacus Health – Wellness. The event will feature breakout sessions, panel discussions and complimentary screenings for blood pressure, glucose and total cholesterol. Eggs & Enterprise May 28, 7:30 a.m. King’s Ridge Christian School 2765 Bethany Road, Alpharetta Monthly breakfast sessions feature distinguished keynote speakers with timely topics and issues facing the North Fulton region. From education to economic development, to public policy and political advocacy, this is the place to be to stay on top of the issues and meet the leaders making the decisions and, at the same time, make valuable contacts. This month’s keynote speaker will be Kessel D. Stelling Jr., chairman/CEO of Synovus.
A Mother’s Ears By Crystal Bryant
I used to be a heavy sleeper. But, when my oldest, now 12, was first born, I was able to hear the smallest coo or cry from down the hall. I can still hear him and my middle
son, who is now 9, whispering several rooms away. As the years have passed and especially with the addition of my third son, now 4, it’s easy for me to not only hear the faintest sounds but also to tune out the loudest noises. My husband often asks me how I can put up with all of the ruckus. I tell him that if I hadn’t learned to ignore it, I would never be able to concentrate long enough to get anything done. But, I think the biggest talent a mother’s ears have is the ability to listen, sometimes for hours on end it seems, to the chattering of our children. I think of my own prayers and how I am always certain God is there listening to me. And, I think about how important that is in my relationship with Him. How much would my relationship change if God were never there to listen to me? So, I try to model this behavior to my own children.
This can be a challenge with three boys, each of them a high-energy kid with a variety of interests. It is hard sometimes, with work, chores, responsibilities and obligations, to stop and listen. I can’t always listen at the first moment they want to share, but I try to make time for them and share in their excitement, even if only in that moment. When I had my first son, I thought my biggest job as a mother was to protect him and keep him safe. That is still an important job. But, I have found listening to be the most important job of all — and perhaps the hinge on which everything else in my relationship with my children rests.
Crystal Bryant is the wife of Pastor Chris Bryant at City On A Hill United Methodist Church in Woodstock. She is involved in women’s, prayer and children’s ministries. 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org
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in the
limelight By Jack Parsons, CTFA, AEP, President
As an investment advisor, up until around August 2012, I was very bullish on corporate and municipal bonds due to an extended period of very low interest rates. This stance was not to the exclusion of stocks. Until then, there were two main reasons to be bullish on these bonds: extraordinary measures from the Federal Reserve to hold interest rates super low for an extended period of time; and the likelihood that quality bonds yielding reasonable dividends would become scarce. The demand for bonds with reasonable yields is sometimes called investor
“thirst for yield.” Due to super-low yields globally, this thirst has recently developed into what should be called “starvation for yield.” Since that August 2012 timeframe, I’ve seen lots of borrowing by very low quality and speculative corporations at very low interest rates. When investors flock after stuff that’s way too risky and yet believe that there is little risk, financial instability tends to follow. The most vocal member of the Federal Reserve Board sounding the alarm on this topic has been Jeremy Stein. Since February 2013, Stein has cautioned members of the Federal Reserve, and frankly anyone who would listen, that the risk taking in credit markets that is occurring is getting out of hand and, ultimately, will threaten financial stability. Stein recently announced his resignation to return to Harvard. My thesis here is that Stein’s resignation is analogous to Robert Shiller’s resignation from the Federal Reserve to return to Yale because his calls for higher rates to prevent a housing bubble were largely dismissed.
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Academics at the Federal Reserve don’t consider this present level of credit market overheating as detrimental yet. Robert Shiller won the Nobel Prize in economics for his research on spotting market bubbles. After Shiller left the Federal Reserve and was back at Yale, he said, “I felt [while at the Fed] the need to use restraint. The consensus in the group was that there was no bubble and no need to raise interest rates.” On February 7, 2013, Stein said, “A badly underwritten subprime loan is one thing, and a badly underwritten subprime loan that serves as the collateral for asset-backed commercial paper held by a money market fund is something else — and more dangerous. One of the most difficult jobs that central banks face is in dealing with episodes of credit market overheating that pose a potential threat to financial stability. Waiting for decisive proof of market overheating may amount to an implicit policy of inaction on this dimension.” I believe that all Stein has to do is keep teaching at Harvard and, eventually, he’ll be eligible for the Nobel Prize in economics just like his counterpart from Yale — because history may not “repeat itself, but it does rhyme.”
Vickery Creek Capital Management LLC is located at 599 W. Crossville Road, Suite 110B, in Roswell. 678-387-1819, www.vickerycreek.net
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Is Your Child Ready for Sleep-Away Camp? By Christy Noll Your child’s first experience away from home is a major milestone, and you’ll want to make sure it is a good experience. If you’re considering sleepaway camp for your child, make sure that your child is ready and that you’ve chosen the right camp. If your child has shown an interest in going to a sleep-away camp, that is a big first step in knowing if he/she is ready. Other indicators that your child may be ready for sleep-away camp include spending the night at a friend’s house, making new friends on his/her own, and
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taking responsibility for his/her own personal hygiene. Making new friends shows that your child is at ease building new relationships, which is a big part of sleep-away camp. Maintaining personal hygiene without parents’ constant nagging shows your child’s sense of responsibility and maturity, which will help him/her in making good choices and demonstrating good behavior when you’re not around — at camp and other times as your child grows up. Talk with your child to show your support and to help prepare him/her for what sleep-away camp might be like. Discuss it in several short talks instead of one long conversation, as children absorb information better in smaller bits. Some topics to discuss include friendships, activities, cooperating and helping out. Encourage your child to be open to meeting new people and trying new things. Your child doesn’t have to become friends with everyone, but it’s
important to treat everyone kindly and to make an effort to make a few new friends while at camp. Remind your child that it’s important to cooperate, help each other and do his/her part in cleaning up. Sleep-away camp may be your child’s first experience making his/her own decisions, which could cause your child to feel nervous or scared. Reassure your child that those feelings are natural, but he/she will adjust after a few days of fun activities and new friends. Encourage your child to talk with camp counselors whenever he/she feels uneasy or needs help. Good friends and good counselors can make all the difference in a positive sleep-away camp experience!
Christy Noll is founder of AlpharettaMoms.org, a resource that connects North Fulton families with community organizations, programs and events.
Hassle-Free Hairstyles By Laura Stalemark LIFESTYLE Spring is finally here! That means static will no longer be a daily issue; however, more and more humid days are in store. Having styling options ready for days full of weather issues will help avoid any unnecessary “bad hair days.” Whether you have short, long, curly or straight hair, there are solutions for you.
Accessories are a great way to simplify styling while adding a special touch to your look. Headbands, hair scarves, barrettes, snap clips, etc. add control to hair that may “not listen” to you on a humid day. Many retail stores have a great selection of accessories that won’t break the bank. Walmart, Target and the Dollar Tree are just a few places to start looking. Ponytails don’t have to be boring. Just by switching the height, part or direction of the ponytail can update the style. Adding tease to the crown and adding a headband creates a simple twist on a classic look. Separate out a small section of hair, then twist it around the ponytail to hide the rubber band. Braiding the small section of hair before twisting it around the band will add texture and interest. Both can be secured with a bobby pin. Braids are another way of adding glamour to otherwise untamable hair. A simple braid twisted into a bun and secured with hair pins can add simple sophistication. Braids are huge right now and can be done in no time! Pinterest and YouTube have amazing tutorials that can show you step-by-step instructions for great looks. Styling products will help hold the style and add shine and control to any of the simple styles you choose. Gels and serums are wonderful helpers for humidity. Try to find gels that are alcohol-free, as alcohol tends to dry out the hair. Serums with Argan oil help prevent frizziness and add softness and shine. Have a wonderful and well-coiffed spring!
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Laura Stalemark is owner of Tryst Hair Salon & Boutique in Alpharetta. 770-772-7007, AlpharettaHairSalon.com
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I
n “The Death of Santini,” Pat Conroy brings to us a memoir that is as powerful, touching, and personal as anything he’s delivered to date. Pat Conroy has spent most of his life writing about his heartwrenching childhood, portrayed by such characters as Tom Wingo in “The Prince of Tides,” Jack McCall in “Beach Music,” and Ben Meechum in “The Great Santini.” Pat was the oldest child of Donald Patrick Conroy, a Marine fighter pilot, and Peg Conroy, a woman Southern to the core. He and his six siblings were moved across the South throughout their childhood from one Marine base to another. His many bestselling novels were shaped by the behavior in which he grew up: observing the devastating effects that transpired from his father upon his siblings, his mother, and himself. It was Pat’s mother who nurtured his great love of literature and poetry, and he would maintain a fierce loyalty to this woman until her long fight for her life was completed. In “The Death of Santini,” Conroy gives us the unabridged version of his life, his siblings, and, most of all, the story of his father. While his mother fed her children’s souls with poetry and culture, Pat’s father tried his best to shred the essence of all her teaching with his “fighter pilot” ideals, not to mention his bitter tongue and fists. Pat says, “I hated my father long before I knew there was an English word for hate.” Pat admits he spent most of his life trying to abolish any hint of his father that he might carry within himself, but states, “Though I’m very much my mother’s boy, it has pained me to admit the blood of Santini rushes hard and fast in my bloodstream.” “The Death of Santini” is about this man Pat called “Father,”
how he was able to cause so much hurt and pain to his family, yet, as an old man, defends Pat, who had told the world all of his father’s transgressions in his best-selling novel, “The Great Santini.” We witness the true meaning of “blood is thicker than water,” as Pat and his father finally come to terms with what they are: father and son. Pat takes us through the suicide of his brother, Tom, the journeys throughout the writing of his novels, and his own depression that came close to killing him. Followed by a eulogy written by Pat upon the death of his father, “The Death of Santini” reads as tenderly, emotionally, and with as much of the prose for which he’s known as any of his other great works. It is about soul searching, sorrow, the deepest of pain, and about the ability to find forgiveness — and, yes, love. “The Death of Santini” can be purchased at most major bookstores in e-Reader versions for Kindle and Nook.
Catherine Groves has lived in Georgia for 15 years and has lived in the South for considerably longer. An avid book collector (owning more than 5,000 books) and just as avid of a reader, she (as her children have said) “lives and breathes her books.” Catherine studied psychology, is working on an English degree, and is writing her first novel. 38
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Fluoride: Friend or Foe By Amanda Kossick, D.M.D.
Fluoride has been a part of our society since the early 1900s, when a level of fluoride was found in teeth, bone and drinking water. Scientists found that fluoride helped prevent cavities, and later found that too much fluoride caused “mottled” teeth with brown and white spots on the teeth. The levels being distributed then were well above
therapeutic range. Since that time, we have found that smaller doses are extremely helpful in the prevention of tooth decay, especially in children and adults that are at a high risk of developing cavities. You are considered a high risk if you have had three or more decay lesions in the last three years; frequent or prolonged exposure to sugary foods or drinks; special healthcare needs; chemotherapy/ radiation therapy; teeth missing due to cavities in the last three years; or severe dry mouth. Where you get into the most trouble is the amount of sugar and simple carbohydrates your teeth are exposed to daily. Fluoride can help repair a lot of the damage a high sugar diet has caused. It also has been found to help with sensitivity in teeth. Where you fall on the cavity risk spectrum will help your provider determine the measures taken to prevent future cavities. Additional therapies for high cavity risk patients are topical fluoride treatments, highly fluoridated toothpastes, sealants and
more frequent radiographs to detect new cavities at an early stage. Concerned parents should know that children’s permanent teeth are developing until approximately 7 years of age and can be affected by the amount of fluoride they ingest. In the dental setting, children will not be ingesting the fluoride; it is applied topically to the teeth and adheres to the tooth structure for three to four hours, slowly releasing fluoride directly into the tooth. Where children can have problems is when they eat more of their toothpaste than they should. Using a “spicy” or minty toothpaste flavor usually deters children from wanting to swallow it. Fluoride has many benefits at appropriate levels, and no one is too old for a cavity-preventing fluoride treatment.
Dr. Amanda Kossick is a dentist with DeMercy Dental in Roswell. 770-641-8010, DeMercyDental.com
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Taste of
Ingredients 2 cups crushed pretzels ¾ cup (1½ sticks) butter or margarine, melted 1 tablespoon sugar 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 8 ounces whipped topping
1 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 (3-ounce) packages strawberry gelatin 2 cups boiling water 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen strawberries
Preparation Mix the pretzels, butter and sugar in a bowl. Press into a 9x13-inch glass baking dish. Bake at 400 degrees for eight minutes. Let stand until cool. Beat the cream cheese, whipped topping and confectioners’ sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth. Spread over the cooled crust. Dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water in a heat-proof bowl. Add the frozen strawberries and stir until broken apart. Spread over the cream cheese mixture. Chill, covered, for 3-12 hours before serving.
Recipe is from the “At Your Service: Southern Recipes, Places and Traditions” cookbook, produced by the Junior League of Gwinnett & North Fulton Counties (JLGNF). Since 1986, JLGNF has been serving the women and children of Gwinnett, North Fulton and South Forsyth counties. The mission of JLGNF is to strengthen the community by creating and implementing collaborative volunteer projects, including programs aimed at building self-esteem in girls ages 5-8. In addition to the cookbook, JLGNF’s fundraising efforts include an Attic Sale in the fall and the “High Heels High Times” fashion and shopping event in the spring. JLGNF.org
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Sophomore
Slump By Mike Litrel, M.D.
I remember the first time I held a scalpel over a patient’s body. The razor edge gleamed against the soft skin. I was a newly minted doctor, just beginning four-year OB/GYN training at Emory University in Atlanta. Heart pounding, I made my first incision under the watchful eye of a senior surgeon. An hour later we were done: The patient and I both survived. Twenty years have passed since that day, and I know now it was not just lessons in anatomy and physiology that made that first operation a success. My most important lesson occurred well before medical school. It was the year I almost flunked out of college.
I had dreamed of becoming a doctor since I was 7 years old. My family was on vacation in rural Vermont when I gashed my leg playing outside. I looked at the deep wound, and I began to cry in terror as I watched the blood pouring out, the yellow fat and red muscle showing through my torn skin. An hour later, I was still crying when an elderly stranger in a long white coat entered the hospital exam room. With a confident smile, he told me I was going to be okay. I watched in trembling hope as he sutured my wound closed. Twenty minutes later, he was done. Before falling asleep that night, I looked at the stitches once again, and in that moment, I knew I wanted to be a doctor, too. I wanted to wear the white coat and take care of frightened strangers in need. But less than a dozen years later, I was ready to give up on the dream. I was a struggling college sophomore, completely unprepared for how difficult — or how boring — premedical studies would be. What do calculus and linear algebra have to do with being a doctor? How do you learn to suture by studying physics and organic chemistry?
I wanted to be watching TV, hanging out with friends, not agonizing in the library over mind-blowing stacks of textbooks. I wanted to quit. Looking for a way out, I reached my heart out in prayer: “God, help me understand the consequences if I quit my dream.” The answer came: You will hate yourself the rest of your life. Given no choice, I worked harder. All that studying during college never quite made sense until I held that first scalpel and experienced firsthand the intense concentration I was required to summon to perform a surgery. Without those countless hours and years in the library, I would never have gained the skill. I am blessed today to care for strangers in need. I know I make a difference for my patients, but I also know that most human suffering is not cured by surgery. God places in our hearts a dream of who we are and who we can become. Far more important to our health than seeing a doctor is holding on to this dream, no matter how much it hurts, and never letting go. Dr. Mike Litrel is a national speaker and author on the faith-health connection, and a board-certified OB/GYN and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. CherokeeWomensHealth.com
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A Billion Mosquitoes! By Susan Elisha
In one month, one mosquito can spawn more than one billion mosquitoes!
The rate at which mosquitoes populate our Georgia backyards is amazing, to say the least. In four short weeks, one female mosquito can spawn more than one billion mosquitoes — not million, but a billion! So, here’s the simple mosquito math: Let’s begin with one adult female mosquito, which only lives for four weeks. Males don’t feed on blood, so we won’t count them in our equation. In order for a female mosquito to develop viable eggs to facilitate reproduction, she must obtain a sufficient blood meal from a human or other mammal. This means she needs to bite you, your kids, your dog, etc. This single female mosquito then will proceed to lay up to 300 eggs. Mosquitoes can lay up to three batches of eggs during their short lifetime, up to 900 eggs. From here, the mosquito has already perpetuated a significant amount of offspring, about half of which
will be female. Our equation now includes 150 new female mosquitoes, plus the original matriarch of the brood, which brings the total to 151 female mosquitoes. This is where it really gets interesting: The 150 daughters of the original female mosquito will also lay up to 300 eggs each, which could bring the total number of mosquitoes up to 45,000, of which half would be female. This now means as many as 22,500 female mosquitoes will once again lay up to 300 eggs each — bringing the number during their egg-laying period up to 6,750,000. That is almost 7 million mosquitoes brought into your backyard via one female mosquito! The same strategy of half being born female would leave us with 3,375,000 females ready to do it all over again. The sum of all homeowners’ fears could weigh in at a whopping 1,012,500,000 mosquitoes in your backyard this season from just one female mosquito! This final answer to our mosquito math equation takes just four weeks and represents just one backyard and just one female mosquito as the common denominator. The final number can
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total even higher if you calculate any additional egg-laying capacity of the original female or any of her offspring to lay eggs more than once during the season. If you’ve wondered why there are mosquito-control services, this scenario explains it. One mosquito can turn into a billion. Each week, these annoying and sometimes harmful mosquitoes multiply exponentially — putting your family, friends and pets at risk. They need to be stopped so you can comfortably enjoy your backyard.
Susan Elisha is owner/operator of Mosquito Squad of Alpharetta. 770-807-7791, Alpharetta. MosquitoSquad.com
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Elected & Appointed
Officials
United States Government
State Rep. Harry Geisinger (R) (D-48) 601 Coverdell Legislative Bldg., Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0254 Fax: 404-594-1510 e-mail: Harry.Geisinger@House.GA.gov State Rep. Chuck Martin (R) (D-49) 417 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-5064 Fax: 404-463-2249 e-mail: Chuck.Martin@House.GA.gov
President Barack Obama (D) State Rep. Lynne Riley (R) (D-50) 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 401 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 202-456-1414 Phone: 404-656-0188 Fax: 202-456-2461 e-mail: Lynne.Riley@House.GA.gov Website: WhiteHouse.gov State Rep. Wendell Willard (R) (D-51) Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) 132 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Senate Russell Courtyard-2, Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 404-656-5125 Phone: 202-224-3521 Fax: 404-481-7111 GA: 770-763-9090 e-mail: Wendell.Willard@House.GA.gov Website: Chambliss.Senate.gov State Rep. Tom Rice (R) (D-95) Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 220 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 Phone: 404-656-5912 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 e-mail: Tom.Rice@House.GA.gov Phone: 202-224-3643 GA: 770-661-0999 Fax: 770-661-0768 Website: Isakson.Senate.gov Superior Court: Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 Chief Judge Cynthia Wright P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 Phone: 404-613-4185 Phone: 202-225-4501 GA: 770-565-4990 State Court: Fax: 770-565-7570 Chief Judge Patsy Y. Porter Website: Tom.House.gov Phone: 404-613-4345 Rep. Rob Woodall (R), District 7 Magistrate Court: 90 North Street, Suite 360, Canton, GA 30114-2724 Chief Judge Stephanie Davis Phone: 202-225-4272 Phone: 404-613-4433 GA: 770-232-3005 Fax: 770-232-2909 Probate Court: Website: Woodall.House.gov Judge Pinkle T. Toomer Phone: 770-613-4070 Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 90 North Street, Suite 360, Canton, GA 30114-2724 Juvenile Court: Phone: 202-225-5211 Chief Judge Belinda E. Edwards GA: 770-535-2592 Phone: 770-612-4401 Fax: 770-225-8272 Website: Linder.House.gov Municipal Court:
Governor Nathan Deal (R) 203 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-1776 Fax: 404-657-7332 Website: Gov.Georgia.gov State Senator Brandon Beach (R) (D-21) 303-B Coverdell Legislative Bldg., Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-463-1378 State Senator David Shafer (R) (D-48) 421-F State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0048 Fax: 404-651-6768 e-mail: David.Shafer@Senate.GA.gov State Senator John Albers (R) (D-56) 301-A Coverdell Legislative Building 18 Capitol Square SW, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 678-667-3656 Bus.: 404-463-8055 Fax: 404-656-6484 e-mail: Info@SenatorAlbers.com
Joan P. Garner (D-6) Phone: 404-612-8226 e-mail: District6@FultonCountyGA.gov
State Rep. Jan Jones (R) (D-47) 340 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-5072 Fax: 404-657-0498 e-mail: Jan.Jones@House.GA.gov
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Alpharetta Municipal Court: Phone: 678-297-6250 Johns Creek Municipal Court: Phone: 678-512-3444 City of Milton Municipal Court: Phone: 678-242-2525 Roswell Municipal Court: Phone: 770-641-3790 Clerk of the Court: Cathelene Robinson Phone: 404-730-5300
Board of Commissioners 141 Pryor St. S.W. Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-612-8200 Fax: 404-730-8254 Website: FultonCountyGA.gov
Commissioners: John H. Eaves (D-1) Phone: 404-612-8206 e-mail: John.Eaves@FultonCountyGA.gov Robb Pitts (D-2) Phone: 404-612-8210 e-mail: Robb.Pitts@FultonCountyGA.gov
Tom Lowe (D-4) Phone: 404-612-8218 e-mail: Tom.Lowe@FultonCountyGA.gov Emma I. Darnell (D-5) Phone: 404-612-8222 e-mail: Emma.Darnell@FultonCountyGA.gov
Courts
State Government
Liz Hausmann (D-3) Phone: 404-612-8213 e-mail: Liz.Hausmann@FultonCountyGA.gov
William Edwards (D-7) Phone: 404-612-8230 e-mail: William.Edwards@FultonCountyGA.gov
Board of Education Website: FultonSchools.org Linda Schultz (D-1) e-mail: SchultzL@FultonSchools.org Katie Reeves (D-2) e-mail: ReevesK@FultonSchools.org Linda McCain (D-5) e-mail: McCainL@FultonSchools.org Julia Bernath (D-7) e-mail: BernathJ@FultonSchools.org
Other Fulton County Schools Superintendent: Robert M. Avossa, Ed.D. 786 Cleveland Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 Phone: 404-768-3600 e-mail: Superintendent@FultonSchools.org Website: FultonSchools.org Fulton County Medical Examiner: Randy Hanzlick, MD 430 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30312 Phone: 404-730-4400 Fax: 404-730-4405 e-mail: Randy.Hanzlick@FultonCountyGA.gov Fulton County Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Theodore Jackson 185 Central Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-612-5100 Website: FultonSheriff.org Fulton County Tax Commissioner: Arthur E. Ferdinand 141 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-730-4000 City of Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle Phone: 678-297-6020 e-mail: DBelleIsle@Alpharetta.GA.gov City of Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker Phone: 678-512-3313 e-mail: Mike.Bodker@JohnsCreekGA.gov City of Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood Phone: 678-242-2484 e-mail: Joe.Lockwood@CityOfMiltonGA.us City of Roswell Mayor Jere Wood Phone: 678-512-3313 e-mail: MayorWood@RoswellGov.com
The Next Step: Dynamic Dining By Michael Consoli
Royal Caribbean International revealed its next vision of dining at sea on board the much-anticipated Quantum-class ships. “Dynamic Dining” is a new culinary experience that gives guests on Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas a landscape of 18 restaurant concepts as vast and varied as dining in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Instead of going to the main dining room each night, guests can choose from five complimentary, full-service restaurants, offering more choice and flexibility than ever. LIFESTYLE
“Dynamic Dining” provides a whole new level of flexibility, variety and quality. Guests will appreciate the array of experiences, the selections of foods and extent of choices in the complimentary, full-service restaurants. Guests will have the opportunity to set out on a spectacular culinary journey — with each night strikingly different from the last.
A New Main Event Each Night “Dynamic Dining” reinvents the traditional, common main dining room as five complimentary, fullservice restaurants will give guests a more intimate and varied dining experience every night of their cruise. New restaurants exclusive to Royal Caribbean, each helmed by its own Chef de Cuisine, include: American Icon Grill, a take on the classic American road trip, pulling together best-loved regional favorites into one comfort-style menu;
Chic, where the height of contemporary cuisine is realized and the freshest ingredients, such as proteins that pack a punch and sauces made from scratch, are evolved for a modern palate;
Britain’s most famous chef and campaigner, Jamie Oliver. Next-level signature dining options on Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas include: Wonderland, an elaborate feast for the senses in a setting where Royal Caribbean chefs twist their culinary kaleidoscopes to invent a dreamscape of never-before-seen fare;
Wonderland Silk, a vibrant and exotic destination where the spices of the Far East bring new flavor to adventurous palates through a Pan-Asian menu; The Grande, a luxuriant nod to a bygone era of classic European ocean liners, when dining was a timehonored, formal ritual featuring timeless dishes; and Coastal Kitchen, a concept created exclusively for suite guests, fusing Mediterranean influences with the unmatched riches of California’s bountiful farmlands. Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants have always been known for their quality, presentation and service. Now, the Quantum-class ships will surprise savvy foodies with a new, multi-sensory venue, as well as concepts from awardwinning chefs, including the firstat-sea outposts of Jamie’s Italian, the hugely popular restaurant from
Jamie’s Italian, featuring rustic Italian favorites, handmade using seasonal ingredients and Jamie’s tried-and-tested crowd pleasers;
Michael’s Genuine Pub, the first American gastropub at sea and the next evolution of Royal Caribbean’s relationship with James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz, offering simply-prepared food and drinks made with quality ingredients from the best artisanal producers; and Devinly Decadence at Solarium Bistro, Royal Caribbean’s fittest dining destination, serving the foods you love — all less than 500 calories — designed by Devin Alexander, media personality, New York Times best-selling author and chef of “The Biggest Loser” TV show. Quantum of the Seas is open for booking through 2015. L
Michael Consoli is a professional travel and cruise specialist and owner of Cruise Planners. 770-650-7667, PlanMyCruise.com
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Clubs &
Organizations Business Organizations BNI-Alpharetta Accelerators Chapter: 770-753-2032, BNIAtlanta.com Johns Creek Business Association: JohnsCreekBA.com JCCC Young Professionals Networking Group: 770-495-0545, ext. 107, MRose@JohnsCreekChamber.com Johns Creek Economic Development Corp.: 770-495-0545 x105 Job Networking Group: 770-642-7943, RUMCJobNetworking.com National Association of Women Business Owners: 678-539-8090, NAWBOAtlanta.org The North Fulton Bar Association: 678-735-5900, NorthFultonBar.com GA 400 Rainmakers: 404-323-0049, GA400RainMakers.com North Metro Women’s Connection: 770-335-6013 Northside Business Network Group: 770-594-2200 Powercore: 404-816-3377, Powercore.net
Charitable & Support Organizations Alpharetta Clean and Beautiful: 678-297-6200 Basset Hound Rescue of Georgia: 770-499-1164 Child Development Association: 770-992-4339, CDAKids.org Children’s Restoration Network: 770-649-7117 Companion Animal Connection: 678-493-9847, CACAdopt.PetFinder.com The Drake House: 770-587-4712, TheDrakeHouse.org Foster Care Support Foundation: 770-641-959, FosterCares.org Friends of the Alpharetta Library: 678-310-4772, FOTAL.org Intake EMRG.: 678-964-4772 Funds 4 Furry Friends: 770-842-8893 Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta: 770-740-2425, GRRA.com Homestretch: 770-642-9185 Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center: 770-998-1017, JacobsLadderCenter.com Keep Roswell Beautiful: 770-641-3715, KeepRoswellBeautiful.org Next Century Youth: 770-335-7317, NextCenturyYouth.org North Fulton Community Charities: 770-640-0399, NFCCHelp.org North Fulton Senior Services: 770-993-1906, SSNorthFulton.org
Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties Inc.: 770-476-3090, JLGNF.org Kiwanis Club of Historic Roswell: 770-356-5211, RoswellKiwanis.org North Fulton Jaycees: 404-786-2665 North Fulton Optimist Club: 404-375-7033 Roswell Junior Woman’s Club: RoswellJuniors.org Roswell Lions Club: RoswellLions.org Roswell Historical Society: 770-992-1665, RoswellHS.org Roswell Optimists: 770-993-5440 Roswell Rotary Club: 678-318-3647, RoswellRotary.com Rotary Club of North Fulton: 770-475-0656, NorthFultonRotary.org Sons of Confederate Veterans — Roswell Mills Camp #1547: 770-396-5034 Sons of the American Revolution — Piedmont Chapter: 404-310-3338, PiedmontSAR.org VFW Post 12002: 12002.net
RyanLeeHollandFoundation.com
Political Organizations
STAR House Foundation: 678-306-4600, STARHouseFoundation.org
Chattahoochee Republican Women’s Club: SandraBJohnson@Gmail.com
United Way of Atlanta: 770-614-1000
North Fulton Democrats: 404-303-9142, ext. 2
Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation, Inc: 678-242-0471,
Civic Organizations
North Fulton Republican Women’s Club: 404-851-9704
Alpharetta American Legion Auxiliary Unit 201: 770-475-9023
Recreation & Hobbies
Alpharetta Junior Women’s Club: 678-218-5732, www.AJWC.net
Alliance Française d’Atlanta-Roswell: 404-875-1211, AFATL.com
Alpharetta Optimist Club: 770-752-8122
Alpharetta Adult Activity Center / Golden Age Book Club: 678-297-6140
Alpharetta Lions Club: 770-475-9344
Alpharetta Arts Guild: 678-994-5630, AlphaArtsGuild.com
Alpharetta Roswell Newcomers Club: 678-318-1442
Alpharetta Bridge Club: 678-361-5198, AlpharettaDBC.org
American Association of University Women North Fulton Branch:
Alpharetta Camera Club: 678-297-6142
AAUWNorthFultonGA.Wordpress.com
Alpharetta City Band: 770-475-9684
Children of the American Revolution — Martha Stewart Bulloch Society:
Alpharetta/Roswell Newcomers Club: 678-318-1442, ARNewcomers.org
770-594-1819
Alpharetta Singles Movie Club: 770-662-0916
Daughters of the American Revolution — Martha Stewart Bulloch Chapter:
Alpharetta Walkie Talkies: 678-267-6142
770-521-1142
AlphaFretters Dulcimer Satellite Group: 404-502-9076
Rotary Club of Johns Creek: JohnsCreekRotaryClub.org
Atlanta Junior Bridge: AtlantaJuniorBridge.org
Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta: GSGATL.org
Atlanta MasterCrafters Toastmaster Club: AtlantaMasterCrafters.com
46
North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center: 678-366-3511, AutreyMill.org Axé Capoeira Atlanta, Inc: 678-252-9353, AxeCapoeiraAtlanta.com Chattahoochee Celtic Pipes & Drums: 770-926-6898 Daylily Society of Greater Atlanta: 770-410-0548, AtlantaDaylily.org Dudes ‘n Darlins Square Dance Club of Alpharetta: 770-751-7210, 770-361-1237, DudesNDarlins.com Georgia Regional Girls Choir: 770-722-3656, GRGC.org
Gardening:
An Ounce of Prevention By Lisa Ethridge
Poison Oak
Atlanta Stamp Collectors: 770-962-5888, StampClubs.com
Johns Creek Arts Center: 770-623-8448, JohnsCreekArts.org Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra: 678-748-5802, JohnsCreekSymphony.org The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra: 770-623-8623 Milton Garden Club: 770-781-4634, Gardening.Meetup.com/172 Multisport Explosion Women’s Only Triathlon Team: MultisportExplosionYouthTriathlonTeam.com Multisport Explosion Youth Triathlon Team: 404-308-6656, MultisportExplosionYouthTriathlonTeam.com North Atlanta Dance Theatre: 770-772-8000, NorthAtlantaDance.com North Fulton Amateur Radio League: 770-993-9500 North Fulton Music Teachers Association: 404-786-8932, NFMTA.com North Georgia Driving Club: BillTracy4@Comcast.net Newtown Park Community Foundation: NewtownPark.org Newtown Recreation: 678-297-2662 Park Place at Newtown School: 770-667-5030, ParkPlace@JohnsCreekGA.gov Performing Arts North: 770-772-0762, PerformingArtsNorth.org Roswell Fine Arts Alliance: RFAA.org Roswell Garden Club: 770-518-7021 Roswell Firehouse Harmony Brigade: 770-317-9571 Roswell New Horizons Band: 770-641-3950, RoswellNewHorizonsBand.com Roswell Photographic Society: 770-594-6122, RoswellPhotoSociety.org Songs of Atlanta Chorus: 770-977-4031 Southern Winds Concert Band: 770-993-2059 STAR — Singles Together at Roswell: 770-993-2012, RUMC.com/Singles
Most people consider gardening a low-risk endeavor. However, physical ailments from a day’s work in the yard can range from sore muscles and sunburn to serious injury or illness. Two simple tips could save you a trip to the emergency room. Folks in North Fulton love to get outside and plant beautiful displays of annuals and perennials in pots and beds during May. However, very few of these frantic agriculturalists have given a single thought to the possibility of contracting tetanus also known as “lockjaw.” Most people know enough to check with the doctor if they step on a nail, but the tetanus bacteria can be found in all planting mediums: soil, compost, manure and potting mixes. Anyone with a scratch or puncture wound is vulnerable. Everyday yard-work injuries — cuts and scrapes — account for almost 40 percent of the tetanus cases in the United States. The best way to avoid tetanus and all its entailments is to check with your doctor. If you have not had a preventative shot within the last 10 years, don’t delay; make an appointment to get vaccinated today.
Stars Soccer Club — Men’s League: 678-366-9008, StarsSoccerClub.com Writers Network: 770-924-0528
Support Organizations Alcoholics Anonymous: 770-686-3082 Anorexia Nervousa and Associated Eating Disorders — ANA: 404-307-5442 Atlanta Harm Reduction Center: 404-817-9994, AtlantaHarmReduction.org Bereavement Support Group: 770-261-1767 Brain Injury and Stroke Group: 770-751-2650 Care Partner Support Group: 678-777-7241 Celebrate Recovery at Scott Mill Chapel: 678-764-8660, ThomasPete334@Gmail.com Diabetes Support Group: 770-889-7577 DreamPower Therapeutic Equestrian Center: 678-456-8082, DreamPowerTherapy.org Emotions Anonymous (EA): 404-307-1735 Foster Care Support Group: 770-261-1767 Knitting for Peace: 770-910-7022 MOMS Club of Alpharetta-West: AlpharettaWestMOMSClub@Gmail.com MOMS Club of Roswell — South: MOMSClubOfRoswellSouth.com Narcotics Anonymous (NA): 678-576-4838
In the rush to transform the yard and clear beds to plant, gardeners sometimes fail to recognize taxicodendron radicans, or poison ivy. For identification purposes, the garden adage, “Leaflets three; let it be,” applies to both poison oak and poison ivy. Doctors treat countless cases of dermatitis caused by poisonous plants each year. Mild irritation and itching can be treated with a baking soda paste, an oatmeal bath or over-thecounter products. Remember, the fluid released from blisters does not spread the rash, only coming in contact with urushiol or sap from the plant causes the condition. In order to avoid the aftereffects of a brush with poison plants, wear gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, closed shoes and long pants to do spring gardening; and wash yourself, your clothing, and even your dog after rummaging around in an untamed territory of the yard. Keep your gardening experience happy and healthy this season. When it comes to gardening and many other areas of life, it’s true: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
National Alliance on Mental Illness — NAMI: MimiMarl@AOL.com North Fulton Moms of Multiples Club: NFMOMC.org Overeaters Anonymous: 770-992-6481 Parkinson’s Support Group: 770-261-1767 PFLAG — Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: JohnsCreekPFLAG.Wordpress.com Roswell UMC Counseling Center: 770-261-1767
Lisa Ethridge is a certified master gardener with North Fulton Master Gardeners, part of the UGA Cooperative Extension Service. 404-613-7670, NFMG.net
S-Anon: 770-993-7253
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Advertiser
Index
AquaGuard Foundation Solutions
48
Audio Intersection
36
Bloom Orthodontics
37
Cardiovascular Physicians of North Atlanta The Cigar Merchant Cruise Planners
9 31 13,35
Decorating Den Interiors
17
DeMercy Dental
31
Dentistry at Milton Eagle Business Credit, LLC
Inside Front 5
The Framing Studio, LLC
19
H&H Electric & Security, LLC
15
Healthy Smiles of Georgia
Inside Back
Jyl Craven Hair Design
21
Kincaid Orthodontics
30
LGE Community Credit Union
7
Little River Animal Hospital
43
Living Science Home Studies, Inc
23
Mini Maid
37
Mosquito Squad
Back Cover
Night Vision Outdoor Lighting
30
North Atlanta Ear, Nose & Throat Associates
11
Northside Hospital Forsyth
1
Northside Rheumatology
5
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
3
Pete’s Plumbing, Inc.
29
PhotoJack.net 39 Reinhardt University Robinson & Miller, Attorneys at Law
33
Sovi Salon
5
Talk of the Table
31
Technical Resource Solutions
27
Tryst Hair Salon & Boutique
43
Wild Bird Centers North Fulton Family Life | MAY 2014
3
Roswell Inc
Vickery Creek Capital Management
48
23
34-35 43
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