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❅Happy Holidays!❅ December 2014

W W W.T H E C U R R E N T H U B .CO M

What’s in

this issue...

H E A LT H

presented by North Fulton Hospital pages 19-22

SAFETY IS ALWAYS PARAMOUNTp19 MAKING THE SHIFT FROM PEDIATRICS TO PRIMARY CAREp22 POWER OF PINK FASHION SHOW p22 ENTERTAINMENT

DECK THE HALLS WITH MERMAIDS AND ICE SKATESp6

Conversations start here.

LEGO TOYS A Cultural Phenomenon That Goes Beyond The Brick PAGE 24

LIFE

MY TRADITIONALp10 JEWISH CHRISTMAS LIFE

GRINCH REVEALEDp16 COMMUNITY

RIVERWALK p28 ALSO...CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS’ EVENTS pages 34–38

PHOTO: MIKE MORELAND

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>>GREEN EGGS AND ART

The Art of Dr. Seuss

December 5–12 For more than 60 years, Dr. Seuss’s illustrations have brought a visual realization to his fantastic and imaginary worlds. His artistic talent went far beyond the printed page, and yet, to this day, his art collection is virtually unknown to the general public. Throughout his lifetime, Ted Geisel created paintings and sculptures that he secreted away at the Dr. Seuss Estate. This amazing Collection is on exhibition and available for acquisition at Ann Jackson Gallery located at 932 Canton Street in Roswell.

3 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

Currentchoices The Month in Preview December 2014

>>JAMMIN’ ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS

Jingle Jam

December 18 >>LOTS OF SOLOS

Handel’s Messiah

December 14 The Atlanta Baroque Orchestra and the Cathedral Schola of the Cathedral of St. Philip again join together with four stellar soloists to provide a rare opportunity to hear Handel’s “Messiah” (Dublin version) in all of its unabridged glory, under the direction of Dale Adelmann and ABO Artistic Director Julie Andrijeski.

The four soloists, all specialists in Baroque performance, are soprano Clara Rottsolk, countertenor David Daniels, tenor Karim Sulayman and baritone Mischa Bouvier. This concert is at St. David’s Episcopal Church located at 1015 Old Roswell Rd. in Roswell.

This concert features Lindsey Stirling and Echosmith. There is no-one else like Lindsey Stirling. We are talking about a classically-trained violinist entering a futuristic world of big beats and animation. She has created a new musical world where the romance of Celtic folk music and modern classical meet the infectious energy of dance and electronica. Echosmith is an American indie pop band composed of four siblings: Graham, Sydney, Noah, and Jamie Sierota. They are best known for their hit song “Cool Kids” which reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100.

At the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre located at 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway.

>>GET ARTSY

Artist Attic

Now through Dec. 14 >>LEGENDS!

Fleetwood Mac

December 17

On the morning of Dec. 16 Mick Fleetwood will be at Ann Jackson Gallery in Roswell (see pg 9) and the next night he’ll be leading his band on stage at Philips Arena. The band’s line up features artists from its most successful period. After a 16-year absence, Christine McVie will be re-joining Fleetwood Mac band mates Fleetwood, John McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, and Stevie Nicks as they launch the On With The Show Tour. Philips Arena is at 1 Philips Drive in downtown Atlanta.

Come shop for great holiday gifts, decorations or functional year-round items. All artwork is handmade by staff, instructors or students. Some sales will go to benefit the Mountain View Arts Alliance for art programming, equipment needs and scholarship needs at The Art Place located at 3330 Sandy Plains Road in East Cobb/Marietta.

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4 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

Currentchoices >>CHRISTMAS JAZZ

Debbie Tyson Rosen’s and Dwan Bosman

December 13 & 19 Debbie Tyson Rosen is vocalist from Cumming, Georgia who has performed the classic jazz “Standards” songbook since the early ‘90s. Along with her husband Jess, she has performed around the area with their jazz quintet and provided backup vocals for recordings.

This will be a special Christmas concert at The Velvet Note located at 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta on the 13th.

>>THE BELLS ARE RINGING

Georgia Philharmonic Christmas Concert

December 12 – 14 Presented by Roswell United Methodist Church and conducted by Michael O’Neal, this special Georgia Philharmonic concert features the sanctuary and bell choirs. Hear many of your Christmas favorites, including Joy to the World, Deck the Halls, Jingle Bells, and O Little Town of Bethlehem. The orchestra also performs the holiday classic Farandole by Georges Bizet. RUMC is located at 814 Mimosa Blvd. in Roswell. Tickets are required call 770-594-0512 for more info.

On the 19th also at the Velvet Note is Dwan Bosman. Saxophonist, fan favorite and consummate showman Dwan Bosman returns again this year for an invigorating holiday treat! Get ready to get down and party to Bosman’s interpretations of your favorite holiday music. For more info visit www.thevelvetnote.com. >>IN YOUR FACE!

Story SLAM

December 15 In this new storytelling series, each event has a theme and ten lucky storytellers have the opportunity to tell their truths in five minutes or less. Three audience judges offer scores after each story measuring content, presentation, and time. At the end of the night, a winner is awarded with accolades and the opportunity to compete at the Grand SLAM event. The December event theme is Nut Crackers. Story SLAM happens at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center located at 950 Forest Street in Roswell. Admission is $10 at the door.

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>>THIS WILL BE TERRIBLE

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

December 4 –14 Alexander can already tell—it’s going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day! Laugh and sing along with Alexander’s misadventures in this hilarious musical with lyrics by Judith Viorst, author of the best-selling classic book. Performed at the Morris and Rae Frank Theatre at the MJCCA located at 5342 Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody.

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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

THE SHOW

By Fredrick Mills

We all agree that the autumn weather so far has been bonechillingly cold, so what better way to celebrate the Christmas season than with a Christmas show from Ireland that will warm your heart and soul on Saturday evening, Dec. 20, at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center.

Now in its tenth season, Irish Christmas in America—The Show, is a family-friendly performance featuring evocatively-sung Irish Christmas songs and ballads, lively instrumental tunes and thrilling Irish dancing. Take a memorable glimpse into the enchanting spirit of Christmas as some of the finest traditional artists from Ireland take you on a warm and energetic journey through the holiday season.

This hugely popular show, now in its 10th season, features top Irish music, song and dance in an engaging performance rich in history, humor and boundless energy, and is produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada of award-winning lrish group Téada.

Séamus Begley, Ireland’s 2013 Traditional Singer of the Year (TG4), will lead the show with his charming Irish wit, warm and mystical vocals, and enchanting accordion playing.

Séamus’s daughter Méabh, who will lend her angelic voice and prowess on

IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA DECEMBER 20, 2014 AT 8PM ROSWELL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER 950 FORREST STREET, ROSWELL WWW.ROSWELLCAC.COM

the button accordion, is sure to delight the Irish music lovers in the audience. In past performances, astonishing young sean-nos (oldstyle) dancer Brian Cunningham dazzled the crowd with his fabulous footwork; this year he is sure to do the same. Joining Brian in dance is Samantha Harvey, who will dance her way into your heart as she tickles the ivories on piano. This year a “newcomer” to the band is Dublin-born Patrick D’Arcy on uilleann pipes (Irish bagpipes), and rounding out the troup is Diarmada, who will be playing his fiddle.

A lively Christmas tradition straight from Ireland, Irish Christmas in America—The Show is a must-see for anyone who enjoys quality Irish music. The concert will begin at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20 at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street in Roswell. The doors will open an hour early so you can enjoy pre-show hors d’oeuvres, libations, and even a photo booth.

Advanced general admission tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for seniors and students. Tickets can be obtained by calling the RCAC office at 770594-6232 or through their website, www.roswellcac.com.

5 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

Warm Your Heart & Soul At Irish Christmas In America

ENTERTAINMENT (

6 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

DECK THE HALLS WITH MERMAIDS AND ICE SKATES

SCUBA Clause in action.

By Jessica Diamond

For the last several weeks, many of us have been dodging Christmas music and avoiding department stores. The minute Halloween ended, a deluge of holiday decorations, sales, and advertisements descended on us like a biblical plague upon Egypt. Now, however, it is finally December. We can safely crawl out from under our autumn rocks and embrace the holiday spirit. No longer will we scold ourselves singing along with our favorite carols. It’s officially the holiday season and we can break out the holly with glee.

The weather outside may turn frightful, like last year, and the malls will be infinitely more so. But despite the madness that often accompanies this time of year, there is an undeniable magic in this season that ignites the childish excitement in every person, no matter what age.

More than celebrating, there is something about this time that encourages us to spend time with one another and reflect on our relationships. If you’re looking to spend more time with the people in your life, there is plenty to do this holiday season that will create memories and traditions for years to come.

The Georgia Aquarium, with its record-breaking size and diverse collection of creatures from the mystic deep, is a magical place to visit any time of the year. The beluga whales

alone are enough to make you forget what year it is. During the month of December, however, the aquarium takes its exhibits to the next level with Festival of the SEAson. The entire facility is transformed into a deep-sea winter wonderland, complete with a musical lights show, Santa visits, special appearances by the Weeki Wachee Mermaids, SCUBA Clause and the Underwater Menorah. This is the perfect opportunity to entertain visiting loved ones and show them what Atlanta has to offer. Check the website (www.georgiaaquarium.org ) for dates and details. Holiday shows and activities span the entire month of December, but be sure to make the necessary reservations in advance.

Forget Rockefeller Center. Avalon in Alpharetta has unveiled a brand

7 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

Rockefeller Center ice skating comes south.

new outdoor skating rink to rival New York’s own, without the New York crowds and bone chilling temperatures. Skate hand in hand with your love or glide to your own beat, hot chocolate in hand, all winter long right here in Georgia. You can even book private lessons and work on perfecting your triple axle. Don’t forget to bring the camera!

If you only see one light show this season, make the trip to Callaway Gardens for their annual Fantasy in Lights. It may seem like a bit of a hike from Metro Atlanta, but it takes about the same time to get there as it does to get home from downtown at rush hour. Why Callaway? To give you a hint, National Geographic Traveler named Fantasy in Lights one of the “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights” in the world! Many of the original scenes were designed and built by former Disney Imagineers, and the show has only grown for more than 20 years. Five displays became fifteen displays featuring more than 8 million lights, which is enough to decorate more than 26,000 Christmas trees.

Whether you make a day trip or get away for the weekend, you’re sure to walk away from this one with childlike excitement and stars in your eyes.

As cheerful as the holiday season can be, logistics and high expectations can sometimes stress out even the most committed holiday spirits. If you find you’re in need of a laugh, look no further than The Santaland Diaries at the Horizon Theatre Company in Atlanta. A down on-his-luck writer takes a job as a Macy’s Department Store elf.

David Sedaris’s sharp wit and dark humor is just the thing to take the edge off your jingle bell blues. Check

the Horizon Theatre Company website (www.horizontheatre.com) for ticket information.

If you’re looking for a dose of small town, old world charm, look no further than Christmas in Roswell.

Travel back in time with themed tours of the old estates, Bulloch Hall, Barrington Hall, and Smith Plantation, decked out in their holiday finest. Enjoy Santa sightings, live music, theatrical performances, open houses, dancing, and a period reenactment of Teddy Roosevelt’s and Mittie Bulloch’s Christmastime wedding in 1853. Visit the Roswell Visitor’s Center website for information on the dozens of activities and holiday treats in Roswell throughout the month of December.

The eight-day Jewish holiday of Hanukkah begins at sundown on Dec. 16th and ends at sundown on the 24th. Temple Kehillat Chaim in Roswell will have a special celebration on the 19th. The service will feature the adult and junior choirs. Following Shabbat services there will be a Hanukkah dinner, complete with potato latkes, chicken, green beans, salad, and all the fixin’s. Beverage and dessert will also be served. Reservations required by the 10th.

In East Cobb, there will be a Celebration of Chanukah at Congregation Etz Chaim on the 22nd.

Whether you spend the holiday season out on the town, or curled up with cocoa and your favorite people, there is every opportunity to make the most of your December.

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ARTS

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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CELEBRATE THE ARTS THROUGH A WIDE VARIETY DECEMBER HOLIDAYS

By Rochelle Mucha Around the globe people of different countries, cultures, and religions embrace diverse traditions to celebrate holidays in December.

The one constant throughout these celebrations is Art. Music and song give life to lyrics of faith, hope, and joy. Dance ignites energy and brings people together.

Visual art from Pre-K to professional captures images, traditional and expressive.

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration honoring African-American and PanAmerican culture. Singing, drumming, African dance, and readings emblematize and encourage commitment to seven principles: Unity, Self-Definition, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.

Kwanzaa, celebrate Kwanzaa Kwanzaa, seven days long Kwanzaa, light the kinara Kwanzaa, sing along Seven candles Kwanzaa Kwanzaa Seven principles Kwanzaa Kwanzaa Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most important dates in the Mexican calendar. Thousands of people make a pilgrimage to Mexico City. Concheros dancers accompanied by mandolin shaped instruments perform at fiestas all over Mexico, a tradition handed down through many generations.

From heaven on a beautiful morning Her arrival brought happiness Peace and harmony Peace and harmony and freedom Peace and harmony

Peace and harmony and freedom Jewish people all over the world observe Hanukkah. The eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

Music, artwork, and sculpture embody the symbolic menorah, a branched candelabrum. The Hora, an Israeli folk dance enlivens the celebrations.

I have a little dreidel I made it out of clay And when it’s dry and ready Oh dreidel, I shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of clay And when you’re dry and ready Oh Dreidel we shall play Christmas is perhaps the most widely observed holiday, a commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, a feast that initiates the twelve days of Christmastide which ends after the twelfth night. Around the world art and artists spotlight the Christmas season. Defining films like It’s A Wonderful Life, the Nutcracker Ballet and lyrics from songs like I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas have become traditions.

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas Just like the ones I used to know Where the tree tops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow I’m dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmases be white Last December I began this column with an article titled “The Arts Matter.” I hope you agree, they do.

Donate This is a perfect time to support our Arts Community. A taxdeductible investment in your favorite local arts organization will garner a return in future enrichment for all of us, young and old.

Commit To A New Year’s Resolution For Greater Involvement With The Arts Take a class, volunteer, become a

Seasons Greetings Kwanzaa yenu iwe na heri Feliz Navidad Chanuka Sameach Veselé Vánoce Joyeux Noël Buon Natale Sugeng Natal Merry Christmas

Reflections: The Mick Fleetwood Collection An Exhibition of Original Photographs

by Music Legend & Artist Mick Fleetwood — December 12 — 21 Ann Jackson Gallery on Canton Street in historic Roswell will have a unique exhibition featuring the legendary Mick Fleetwood, founder of Fleetwood Mac. This event is an Atlanta exhibition premiere, featuring an extraordinary collection of photography titled Reflections.

Fleetwood has stepped out from behind the drums to pursue his other true passion of being behind a camera in this unique exhibition of photographs taken over the past few years.

“As music has thus far defined my career, this collection of my work titled “Reflections,” defines my thoughts through my art. I am quite proud of this presentation. The collection is a body of over thirty works, both original photographs as well as hand-enhanced original photographs that are startling in their complexity and in their conception. Each one of the works housed in this collection have a distinct and personal story; and one that reflects my life, my roots, my journey and my passions—who I was and who I am,” Fleetwood said.

There will be an opening reception on Friday, Dec. 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Fleetwood will make a personal appearance on the 16th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The exhibition is open to the public daily noon to 8 p.m. at 932 Canton Street in Roswell.

9 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

At this special time of year, when we gather with friends and loved ones, when we express our gratitude, and share our prayers for our future, let’s take note of how the arts is our connective tissue, how the arts open doors to understanding and acceptance, highlighting our humanity, reminding us how we all are alike, not different.

I offer these End of Year To-Do’s Board member, ensure your kids’ arts Attend education and engagement, buy an In Roswell and in our region there annual subscription to your favorite is a full calendar of events to help you arts venue, and more! celebrate your special days. This holiWishing you all a nurturing day season add music, theater, and Holiday Season! visual arts to your traditions.

10 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

MY TRADITIONAL JEWISH CHRISTMAS

By E. L. Friendlander

I’m Jewish and grew up in the South. There are probably several jokes in there but I’ll leave those for another column.

This article is about Christmas from a Jewish perspective. For me, Christmas was always a special time because by default, my family celebrated both Christmas and Chanukah.

Even though we didn’t give any religious connotation to Christmas, when Chanukah fell well apart from Christmas, my parents always gave us gifts so we didn’t feel left out when all of the neighborhood kids got presents.

Of course we also received gifts for Chanukah, so as a kid it was like double dipping and who doesn’t love that?

Now that I’m older, I’ve also come to love one of our family traditions, and of many Jews, and that is eating Chinese food on Christmas day.

There’s an old joke that goes: The Hebrew calendar is 5775 and the Chinese year is 4712 so that means Jews must have gone without Chinese food for over a thousand years! In all seriousness though, the Jewish affinity of Chinese food is very real and does have a deep history.

It started in New York over a century ago where there were large groups of immigrants including Eastern European Jews, Italians and Chinese. In his book Jewish Food: The World at Table, author Matthew Goodman notes that Italian cuisine and especially Italian restaurants steeped in Christian iconography didn’t interest Jews. On the other hand, the Chinese restaurants offered no statues of the Virgin Mary.

Additionally, the Chinese restaurants

offered unkosher dishes that were okay to bring home. Some would even advertise wonton soup as chicken soup with kreplach.

These Chinese restaurants also offered the mostly poor Eastern European immigrants the opportunity to feel sophisticated and worldly. This was the food of the Orient, after all!

Also, most Chinese people are not Christian, so their restaurants were always open on Christmas.

I really don’t know much about these old traditions. The family stories of my relatives who came through Ellis Island are fading fast. I now live in the suburbs of Atlanta where we have plenty of culinary options such as Indian, Korean, and Thai. But for me the tradition of Chinese food on Christmas is well… just that, a family tradition. To me it is the cultural part of being Jewish and an elective assertion of my culture. It may be silly but there is something special about paying homage to what has come before me. So this Christmas I’ll be with my family on Christmas eating Peking Duck and thinking of it as a prayer I can eat.

No matter how you celebrate, I hope you have a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

12 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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medical bills in the long run, and you’ll likely feel better and be more MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT MONEY productive too.

We realize these topics aren’t top of mind this time of year, but implement an idea (even one of your own) and you’ll benefit for years to come.

Afterward, go have fun, count your blessings, and enjoy the Holiday season with family and friends! Want to do • Save more for retirement. For something meaningful? Do a random each incremental $1000 saved annually for 20 years, you’ll have accuact of kindness for a complete stranger compiled a short list of things that you

By Robert Fezza and Steve Siders mulated an additional $45,000 might consider to help yourself: in need, or host a party and take up a We are well aware of the “busy-ness” assuming an 8% return on your invest- collection to provide a gift to a local • Setup a spending plan for the the next 4 weeks will bring, but if you ment. This will also reduce your tax Holidays. Plan now and avoid credit charity. Life’s a journey, navigate it could take the time to make just one bill each year if a pre-tax savings card debt to start off 2015. wisely. small change before the end of the account is used (i.e. 401k).

• Evaluate year-end tax saving Robert Fezza, CFP® and Steve Siders, year—something that would benefit • No 401k plan? No worries. Pick a strategies. Contact your CPA and you long term—would you do it? broadly diversified, low-cost stock mu- CFP® are owners of Odyssey Personal implement the changes now. If you The Holidays are a great time to give Financial Advisors, 500 Sun Valley own a small business, this is a must! If tual fund and begin saving thanks, celebrate life, and enjoy time Drive, Ste A-6, Roswell, GA. Their firm $100/month. We’ve never heard you wait until January, it may be too with family and friends, but have you anyone complain about saving too specializes in working with people who late. ever thought about how you could benmuch, too early. Start the habit now, • Reduce recurring expenses. Call are serious about making progress efit from wise year-end planning? Why and you’ll be grateful in 10, 20, or 30 your Internet provider, TV service towards their financial goals. Odyssey not get a head start on your New Year’s and/or cell phone carrier and request a years. manages portfolios greater than Resolutions? As Benjamin Franklin • Exercise! Wait a minute, what’s review of your bill. Discounts may be $500,000. 770-992-4444, once said: available or you might be able to elimi- that got to do with finances? odysseypfa.com. Securities offered “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you nate services not needed. Cut $20 off a Technically, it’s an expense in the near can get done today!” through Cetera Financial Specialists term, but staying healthy lowers your monthly bill and save $240 annually.

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LIFE

AN EARLY NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION

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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS The Comedy of Family Dynamics

By Di Chapman

This column is for all of you, no matter what holiday your family celebrates. It’s for you matriarchs who prepare succulent dinners and delicious desserts; and readers who have serene holiday dinners and albums full of gorgeous family photos. It’s for you well-adjusted adult children, as well as you who are not. It’s for all of you who love to look at life with humor, as I do. I hope you’ll enjoy this final column of 2014.

Holidays can bring stressors that can affect the staunchest of families. I guarantee you that even in the most idyllic family, with “normal” people, there’s an unacknowledged 1000pound gorilla in the room, or at the very least, a dog dragging the bird off the counter while mashed potatoes and gravy are transported to the dining room. If your family is reserved, with quiet dinners because no one’s certifiably nuts and everyone is erudite, well, let’s just say, I have no clue how you manage. Who doesn’t have a bizarre family member who’ll never fit in? Who hasn’t had a dog coughing up turkey bones under the table?

Clearly, holiday gatherings were meant to banter about the family

skeletons and secrets. They were made to discuss who’s a hoarder, who’s a conspiracy theorist, ex-in-laws who got custody of the grandchildren, and siblings who dropped out of sight. If there’s no family scuttlebutt at the table, why bother?

Family gatherings for holiday dinner reunions have been the same for centuries. At least in 2014 most of us don’t have to worry about a guest pulling a knife or firing a gun under the tabletop. I understand this is why civilized society expects you to keep your hands visible, busy with utensils, in your lap, or on the table. It’s a custom with historic roots. Consider Viking meals circa the dawn of history. Meals were indeed dangerous events. As they ripped Continues on p14

13 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

LIFE

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Home For The Holidays… continued from p13

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

Westernized nation have fruitcake during the holidays? No grown adult wants any! Every year my Norwegian relatives would make the lefse and fruitcake and ship them to us across the country. Imagine these treats about five days old. However, they beat the “prune cake” Mom made with large circular cracker-like crusts smeared with prune paste, and stacked on top of each other, usually five or six layers high. (Can’t wait to try it, right?) There’s a Scandinavian adage that applied to our meals: If it’s a tradition, it’s a tradition then.

There were “Adventures in Cooking Turkeys,” too. God bless her, my mom cooked for seven of us 353 days per year, but she had no interest in the art of food presentation. She once put a dressed Thanksgiving turkey in the oven on “Clean.” The charcoal lump of a bird that was ceremoniously retrieved from the oven sent us searching for a precooked turkey breast.

I believe holidays are a great time to laugh about family dysfunction. I WE’D SCRAM FROM like to watch movies that feature allTHE TABLE WHEN MY star casts portraying family NORWEGIAN/ characters. Home for the Holidays features Robert Downey, Jr., and Anne ICELANDIC MOTHER Bancroft. This hilarious look at a holiWOULD SET OUT THE day dinner at mom and dad’s portrays RUTABAGAS AND the grandaddy of dysfunctional family LUTEFISK gatherings. You’ll howl.

We’d scram from the table when my Christmas Vacation with Chevy Norwegian/Icelandic mother would Chase and Randy Quaid is a classic set out the rutabagas and Lutefisk, about holiday dysfunction. You with it’s slithering tasteless texture. could’ve found Clark Griswold and We gagged when Grandpa would gob- Cousin Eddie at our dinner table. ble down the brown Norwegian Who doesn’t have a bizarre family gjetost cheese, pronounced “yaymember who’ll never fit in? Who hastoast,” which is quite misleading n’t redone the decorations after because its sugar-sweet flavor and they’ve been destroyed by a pet? rubbery texture would send you In my family, like yours, the running to the nearest porcelain holidays give us a time to be throne. No “yay” about it. Gjetost is connected with our busy lives, and to considered the national cheese of realize how many of us did not fall far Norway. If you’d like to try it, you’ll from the tree. In our house, holiday find it online. Bon appétit! celebrations were boisterous, and One thing we kids did love was Mom loved the sound of her children, “lefse,” also known as Norwegian young, and older. After all, isn’t that tortillas, except they were made of what holidays are really about? mashed potatoes. They were a really Merry Christmas, Mom, Dad, Bill, tasty treat, especially if you like sugar. and Bob. Susan, Jim and I miss you Lefse is smeared with butter, then terribly. Our Christmases together coated in sugar. I didn’t stand a ended way too soon. You four, Susan chance, folks, if you’ve read my earlier and Jim are the reason I write every column “Ode to a Jelly Donut.” word in my life. And to the rest of you There was Norwegian fruitcake, I hope your holiday season is a joyous too. Why in the world does every one. See you in 2015! the dark meat off a turkey leg with their teeth, it was not uncommon for a stabbing to occur under the table.

Holiday dinners bring out all the family dynamics. There is the scuttlebutt of those who attend and the scuttlebutt of those who don’t. If you’re one of those who doesn’t, scuttlebutt at the hands of those who attend will outweigh everything else.

If you’re not in law school or medical school with a heavy homework load; if you don’t have a retail store counting on your holiday sales; and if you’re not a soldier stationed for holiday duty, beware of wagging tongues if you don’t attend. If you’re home watching television in your boxers and sweatshirt, my friend, the comments about your behavior will come ’round to you by the selfappointed family crier.

Growing up with my own family’s holiday dinners was a trip. My Norwegian grandfather visited from North Dakota and showed us how he could still stand on his head in his 70s.

16 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

HUMOR

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THE REAL GRINCH REVEALED!

By Mike Finch

Sweetie and I settled into the sofa to kick off our Holiday season with the expectations of an emotionally charged viewing of whatever was listed on the Hallmark channel. She prefers a little fire in the background, a smattering of romantic candles, and a generous pour of her favorite beverage. Ah, yes.

Bring on the Holidays!

I’m actually not sure why year after year we get sucked into this genre of entertainment. The acting is typically way over the top and is routinely described by viewers as “extra cheesy.”

The story lines are specifically designed to tug at our most basic emotional needs of family, belonging, and the discovery of the meaning of life. For the most part the entire plot can be recognized in about the first three minutes, removing any twists, turns, or aha moments. That’s boring in most situations, and yet we watch, and we sniffle. That’s embarrassing until I discovered that a lot of other “normally adjusted individuals” are also watching this stuff.

So, there we sat all ready to watch the waitress, single mom, or down-on his-luck unemployed single dad, meet the love of their lives, or one of Santa’s relatives that will ultimately take these characters from poverty and loneliness, to a deep appreciation for the Holidays and a renewed life focus—all within a two-hour venue.

With that as a backdrop, and undeterred by naysayers, we settled in.

That’s when she asked a seemingly simple question, “What number is the Hallmark channel?” Of course, I had no idea! ESPN, yep! The Hunting Channel, Oh yea! I even know where to find the Home fixit shows, but not Hallmark. But, as the master of the remote, this was a minor setback. Or was it? As I began to search and scroll, a low-grade panic began to rise within me and I began to visualize myself as the Grinch on top of Mount Crumpet with Sweetie’s Christmas— about to dump it!

I obviously had just missed it during my scroll, right? So, I simply

hopped online to end this misery and get the Holidays back on track. But, as you can guess, that didn’t happen!

I quickly learned that my “new” cable provider (I’ll call them PU-verse to protect their identity) was in a financial dispute with the Hallmark channel. What? Do they hate Christmas? Are they run by Satan?

Who argues with the producers of love, family, and the meaning of life?

To describe Sweetie as deflated would be a gross understatement, but as a professional wordsmith, I knew the way out of this.

I simply explained to Sweetie that our life was the real Hallmark movie.

Married to my high school sweetheart for 31 happy—okay 31 years; three beautiful, somewhat adjusted daughters and grandchild number one on the way. Our lifestyle, while modest by Roswellian terms would rank as wealthy in any thirdworld country and the meaning of life—we think we have it well understood! That was some of my best material and after careful consideration Sweetie quickly agreed, and then recommended I switch cable providers by the end of the week.

I actually didn’t see that ending coming!

Mike Finch can be reached at miscellaneousramblings @comcast.net.

18 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

PARENTS AND TEACHERS: HOLIDAY BREAK IS A GREAT TIME TO PLAN SELF-CARE AND SUMMER VACATIONS

By David A. Martin

Look Into the Future and See Yourself Ready for Warmer Weather!

• The first day of Winter Holiday Break • The first day of Summer Vacation Teacher friends of mine have always been thrilled by these two days of the year, though with parents, it depends on how prepared they are for the holidays.

For parents and/or teachers, the holiday break can mean two weeks to catch your breath and regroup amidst the “holiday madness.” The longer summer vacation affords more of a chance to relax and take a trip or two.

Time and again we’ve heard that having something to look forward to helps keep us healthier and happier.

To have the best summer vacation possible, how about looking into the future to see where you want to be, and how you are going to get there?

Then you’ll have this “vision” to work toward through the hard, cold months of January, February, and March.

If you’re hoping to take a trip this summer, use a little time during holiday break to talk with your family and figure out what sounds good for the summer. A trip out West? A week in the mountains? Renting a house at the beach for a few days? If you think about it now and take action, you’ll probably get a better deal on the travel and accommodations.

The same principle applies to taking care of your body. If you want to have a healthier, stronger body by the time summer arrives, the time to watch what you eat and start getting in a little more exercise is now. In fact, exercising and limiting what goes on your plate during the holidays can mean you’re a step ahead come New Year’s Resolutions.

Instead of regrets, you’ll already be on your path to wearing cute

sundresses, or snappy running, golf, or tennis shorts come summer.

A key aspect of starting any exercise program is making sure you’re healthy enough to exercise. If you're a teacher, you’re on your feet all day, and the days are long. For parents chasing children, retail workers, or nurses – whatever your profession – it pays to notice what's going on with your legs. If your legs are swollen at night, or if they are achy, tired, or restless – with or without varicose or spider veins – an ultrasound of your legs will tell you whether or not you have a medical condition called venous insufficiency.

As the root cause of most varicose and spider veins, venous insufficiency is not just a cosmetic issue. There are serious health concerns that come with venous insufficiency, as the condition is progressive, can lead to skin ulcers, and causes many sufferers to stop exercising. It can also affect the ability to get a good night’s rest, especially if your legs hurt or are restless.

If you already have symptoms of venous insufficiency, your insurance company may cover having a full duplex Doppler ultrasound study of your legs. If you don’t have symptoms, but would like to have a quick check to see if you’re eligible to have cosmetic treatment for spider veins, the registered vascular technologists at VeinInnovations will perform a free cosmetic screening.

Look into your future and see yourself clear of varicose and spider veins while having a lovely summer vacation. Even if it doesn’t make you feel warmer this winter, it will give you something to smile about when the routine of school starts again following the holiday break.

David A. Martin is a registered nurse and is the CEO and president of VeinInnovations, with clinics in Johns Creek and Atlanta. Visit www.veininnovations.com for more information, or call 678-731-9815 to schedule an appointment.

health&wellness presented by North Fulton Hospital

SAFETY IS ALWAYS PARAMOUNT

By Debbie Keel My husband laughs at me. I do it constantly when I’m with our grandkids.

“Be careful. You’re going to break your neck.”

“No, you cannot ride your bike without your helmet.”

“Don’t stuff your mouth. You’ll choke to death.”

These are just some of the orders I Debbie Keel, CEO, give my North Fulton Hospital grandchildren when we are babysitting between giving them everything they want and doing what my daughter calls “Grandma-izing” them. Usually those sentences are followed quickly by “You are not going to the ER on my watch.”

Truth is, their safety is my number one concern when I’m with them. That’s partly because I don’t move as quickly to catch a flying kid jumping off a couch as I once did and partly because it would break my heart to see them get hurt.

My husband reminds me I wasn’t that careful (and some might say nagging) about our own kids’ safety.

That’s probably true. And as a young CEO I probably wasn’t as over-the-top about patient safety in my hospital as I am now.

In fact, becoming the safest hospital in America is everyone’s number one priority at North Fulton Hospital. Think about it: there is plenty of opportunity for a hospital patient to get hurt by the very hospital he is in. So many caregivers touch a patient, each time able to help or hurt the patient. And there are hundreds of people you never see like lab techs and pharmacists who have a tremendous impact on your hospital care.

The 900 staff members of NFH just completed our annual safety week, a week of activities and events designed to put patient safety at the center of everyone’s focus. Every year we encourage our team members to “Blow the Whistle” issues that might impact our patients’ safety, even handing out awards to those who do.

We deliver a lot of extraordinary care at NFH doing wonderful things for people who show up in our trauma center, right through our inpatient rehabilitation unit that seeks to get them as close to being their fully functional former self as possible. But we can’t and won’t deliver this care in anything less than an environment that isn’t as safe as it can be. I guess I’m kind of grandmotherly like that.

As a kid growing up in Catholic schools in the 60s and 70s, I learned to be all about the rules. The nicest thing about what some people perceived as the overbearing attitude of the nuns who ran the school was that there were no gray areas.

If you were supposed to wear your skirt no more than one inch above the knee, then it better not be one a half inches above the knee. If you were supposed to sit up straight in your desk, then you didn’t lay your head on the desk. If you were supposed to “walk not run” to recess, then you’d better not take off running or there would be no recess for you.

One thing was clear, you (actually, your parents) made a choice to attend Catholic school. So you followed the rules or there were consequences.

No matter what your feeling about the parochial school system, as a person who delivers health care to patients with known and unknown illnesses, you probably share my sentiments about safety, yours and your patients’.

North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar Dec 2014 — Feb 2015 SUPPORT GROUPS WomenHeart Support Group Second Tuesday of every month, 7:30 p.m., Classroom C. The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease brings support and education to women who are at risk or who already have heart disease. Call Rebecca at 770 658-4796 or email WHFultonCo@womenheart.org.

als will sometimes be offered.

Please contact Tim for more information at 770-667-9363.

Gamblers Anonymous Every Thursday, 6:30 - 8:30 .pm.

Classroom C. Anyone interested in stopping gambling is invited to attend this 12-step program.

Anonymity is the foundation of fellowship in this group. For more information please call David at 770-862-2564.

nancy; stages of labor and what to expect; cesarean birth; medications; possible complications; postpartum care; and comfort, relaxation, breathing and coping techniques for labor support. $100 per couple; registration required.

Water Birth

Thursday, 12/4, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/29, 2/12, and 2/26 7:00 p.m.

For couples desiring to learn about the option of a water birth delivery.

Completion of the class is required Lupus Support Group Ostomy Support Group to be considered for water birth at Third Saturday of every month, Third Tuesday of every month, NFH. $30.00 per couple; regis11 a.m.

–1 p.m.

Classroom C. 6:30 p.m., Classroom C. This tration required.

Informal meetings to share experigroup is open to anyone who has Call 770- 751-2660 for more ences and learn from others. or will have an ostomy and any information and to register.

Guest speakers occasionally presfriends, family or supporters. The Maternity Tours meeting structure is informal with ent and we also participate in group discussion and guest speak- some Lupus Foundation of Amer- Please join one of our Women’s ica events. Contact Julie for info: Health nurses in the hospital ers to be scheduled at various lupusgroup4roswell@gmail.com atrium on alternating Tuesdays at 4 times throughout the year. Call p.m. and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m.

John Dorso at 678-694-8726 to or 404-626-2394. for a guided tour of the Labor and register or to obtain more info.

Delivery suites, Mother/Baby Unit COMMUNITY Caring, Sharing, & and the Neonatal ICU. The tour EDUCATION Learning: Breast Cancer last approximately one hour.

Support Group Babysitting Workshop Please call 770-751-2660 for the Fourth Tuesday of every month, Sunday 12/7. 1-5:30 p.m. schedule and to register.

6 p.m. Cope and connect with oth- Saturday 1/10/15 and 2/7 ers who are facing the same strug- 9-2p.m. Teaches children ages SPECIAL EVENTS gles. Please call Micah Brown, RN, 11–14 how to be prepared and reBreast Health Nurse Navigator, at sponsible babysitters. Bring a doll Health Insurance 770-751-2556 for location and to or stuffed animal and a sack lunch Education & Enrollment North Fulton Hospital and Get register. and drink. $30.

Covered America will host AffordAmerican Heart able Care Act education and enAssociation Heartsaver rollment sessions in the CPR* community classrooms on DeSaturday 12/6, 1/31, and 2/28. cember 20, and January 17 from CPR course for the community.

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and on February 3 Look Good, Feel Better Adult and child CPR, 9 a.m. to from 4-7 p.m. Certified navigators Wednesday, 11/12 and 1/14/15. noon; $35 Adult, child, and infant will be available to guide patients 10 a.m. to noon. A cosmetologist CPR, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; $45 through the various options and will discuss how to care for skin assist with the enrollment process.

Diabetes Selfand hair to combat the appearIn addition to the enrollment Management Workshop ance-related side effects of canevents, North Fulton Hospital proSaturday 12/13, 1/31, and 2/28. cer treatment. Free make-up and vides an education website, skin care products are provided. 1- The Diabetes Association of Atbrochure, and a benefits navigator lanta (DAA) offers classes at 800-227-2345 to register.

North Fulton Hospital to teach dia- who’s available to assist with enrollEpilepsy Support Group betes self-management skills. Call ment. To schedule an appointment The third Wednesday of every Katie at 404-527-7180 for more or to receive more information, log onto the www.pathtohealth.com or month, 7-9pm Classroom A/B. information and to register. call 770-751-2756.

People with epilepsy as well as their family and care-providers are Childbirth Preparation *AHA Disclaimer: The American Heart AssociSaturday, 12/13, 1/17, and 2/21. ation strongly promotes knowledge and profiinvited to attend this support 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Active ciency in BLS, ACLS, and PALS and has group. The meetings will provide developed instructional materials for this purtime for attendees to share helpful class consisting of both lecture and pose. Use of these materials in an educational discussion/sharing.

Topics include course does not represent course sponsorship information and resources from anatomy and physiology; nutrition by the American Heart Association, and any their own experiences. Educafees charged for such a course do not represent income to the Association tional presentations by profession- and fitness; discomforts of preg-

20 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

PATIENT SAFETY AND SERVICE EXCELLENCE A PRIORITY AT NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL North Fulton is actively dedicated to the continuous practice and improvement of exceptional safety standards and quality care, within its walls as well as beyond them.

The hospital was recognized last month for receiving an “A” in Patient Safety from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing and advocating safe, quality and affordable health care for Americans. Additionally, North Fulton Hospital also repeatedly receives the “Gold Plus Award” from the American Heart Association for meeting and exceeding the “Get with the Guidelines” standards for Stroke, Congestive Heart Failure, and Coronary Artery Disease.

These guidelines promote consistent adherence to the latest scientific treatment protocols. North Fulton has exceeded these qualifications for the last several years in a row and is one of only two hospitals in Georgia to achieve the gold standard in these three categories.

“The awards reflect the continuing focus on quality care in our organization. It’s a recognition that we are focused on quality and continuous improvement,” Chief Nursing Officer Nancy Melcher said.

These recognitions serve to represent the hospital’s devotion to caring for its patients and maintaining their trust. Furthermore, ever evolving programs, such as the Annual Safety Fair in November, serve to educate employees and celebrate this commitment.

“Its an all day annual fair,” Melcher explained. “We have many interactive booths for staff. It’s fun, but it’s also educational and reinforces many of the things we are emphasizing to make sure that our patients are safe and that are service is high quality. We are learning how to make North Fulton Hospital the safest hospital in America.”

The fair is just one element of a weeklong celebration of advancement. Each day offers a different opportunity for education and input on the hospitals ongoing safety and quality initiatives. On one of these days, there is an awards ceremony to recognize those who have performed extraordinary measures to keep patients safe. Another day, lawyers come in for mock depositions with the physicians to enforce the vital importance of thorough charting.

These activities are not limited to one week in November. The hospital staff utilizes the Lean Daily Management system, a tool that encourages the team

to gather at the end of each day and evaluate progress and set future goals. This enables staff to track the quality of patient care and take proactive steps toward any potential complications. It also serves to reduce wasted resources.

North Fulton Hospital also welcomes the input of its current and former patients in order to best serve their needs. Patient Family Advisory Council was assembled from a list of more than 2,000 former patients. Eight patients were chosen to meet monthly with the North Fulton Hospital staff to provide a look into their perspectives.

“They are a very dedicated council,” Melcher said.

“They provide invaluable insight and information to the hospital.”

These are just a few of the efforts put forth by North Fulton Hospital in the name of safety and quality. Additional programs include targeted initiatives to leverage hospital systems and leadership to improve clinical care, design and implement policies and procedures for hospital staff. This in turn helps attract the highest quality medical professionals and promotes improvement in delivery of care, all of which share the goal of improving communication and promoting education to find new and more effective measures to enhance the patient experience.

A pledge is posted on the North Fulton Hospital website. It states, Our Commitment to Quality Pledge: Quality is the cornerstone of everything we do. It is our passion to provide exceptional care to every patient we serve.

It is assumed that each and every hospital does what it can to provide safe, effective care to its patients. If they did not maintain a standard level of quality, they would not be allowed to operate, thanks

North Fulton Hospital employees at the Annual Safety Fair.

North Fulton Hospital employees at the Annual Safety Fair.

to the protocols put in place. However, North Fulton Hospital takes its commitment to a much deeper level by constantly reinvesting in itself to push further and achieve more.

“For all of us at North Fulton Hospital, it’s about making a promise to the community to continuously advance the care and service we provide,” said Debbie Keel, CEO of North Fulton Hospital.

By this commitment, the hospital works to provide exceptional care to every patient, to show patients, employees and affiliates respect, maintain the highest ethical and clinical standards, enhance the practice of patient care, safeguard the integrity and lives of patients and employees, enhance leadership, manage efficiently and share knowledge with other healthcare providers so that they, too, can provide the highest quality of care possible.

“We have done an excellent job adopting best practices to ensure high quality care,” Melcher stated proudly.

Dr. Michael Quackenbush is a fresh face at North Fulton Hospital’s operating table. A board certified orthopedic trauma surgeon who specializes in fracture reconstruction, Dr. Quackenbush moved his growing little family from Ohio to Georgia in search of new challenges and bigger opportunities. When he isn’t traveling the world, fishing or taking care of his new baby, Will, Dr. Quackenbush is hard at work helping to put North Fulton’s injured patients back together and back on track.

Q

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

ANSWER: I originally grew up in Manalapan, NJ. It’s central New Jersey, about an hour from New York City.

Q

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A DOCTOR?

ANSWER: My primary interest in high school and college was science.

When I first looked at majors, the only one that stood out was pre-med.

Once I started to take the classes, it just stuck. I got a degree in science

(

with a college freshman. He was riding his bike and got hit by a dump truck. He ended up losing his leg. His parents had just dropped him off, unpacked the dorm, kissed him goodbye and two weeks later he had this accident. We were able to save him, but not his leg. After many months of rehab, he was able to recover and start his life again. He got a prosthetic leg and went back to school. It was memorable to me to see someone assimilate back into his life after something like that. Former patients approach me sometimes and say, “Hey, you’re the guy who fixed me.” It’s nice to see the end result and watch people regain their independence.

Dr. Quackenbush enjoys sports and fishing

with a pre-med base. I have a desire to help people, of course, but everything really just sort of fell into place.

Q

WHY ORTHOPEDIC TRAUMA SURGERY?

ANSWER: As a trauma surgeon, you see people at their worst. I have the ability to help them at their greatest time of need, when they are at their most vulnerable. To help someone who has had a horrible accident and can’t work or provide for their family is such a great thing. Being able to fix their fractures and heal them really appealed to me.

ANSWER: One of my mentors suggested I look into it. The fellowship was offered through the AO Foundation, which is an international non-profit with contacts all over the world. They specifically recommended Berlin to train with trauma surgeons. I was fortunate enough to be selected. I was able to see how things are done in other countries and learn from other doctors and share my knowledge with them. It was also nice way to travel and see some of the world before I really got into my career.

Q

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WITH YOUR FREE TIME?

ANSWER: We have a 5-month-old baby at home, so there is not much free time! We’ve always liked to travel, go to movies and tour cities and museums. I like sports and fishing, watching movies, that kind of stuff.

Q

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL, DREAM JOB AS A SURGEON? WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE PROFESSIONAL GOAL?

ANSWER: I don’t really have a dream job. I think ultimately I just want to be happy and have a good home/work balance. The less I have to move around and travel, the better it would be for all of us, with the baby and everything. I want to do my job to the SO, YOU GOT YOUR MEDICAL best of my ability and help the people DEGREE IN ARIZONA, THEN DID WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST YOUR RESIDENCY IN NEW JERSEY AND of this community.

Q

VALUABLE THING A SURGEON CAN DO TO MAKE THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE AS SMOOTH AND COMFORTABLE AS POSSIBLE?

ANSWER: We as surgeons have to remember that patients don’t have the same medical background that we do.

We have to remember they are scared and nervous about what’s going to happen. Everything is new and frightening for them. It’s important to answer all of their questions, to give them the time to process and ask those questions and make sure there is open, honest communication. I try to give them as much information as possible.

The Quackenbush family enjoying some family time in the fall

HEALTH

Q

TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOUR AO INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP IN BERLIN.

Q

A FELLOWSHIP IN CALIFORNIA. HOW DID YOU END UP AT NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL?

ANSWER: I had a previous job in Ohio, for about 5 years. Over that time, I was able to learn and get what I wanted out of that. Then, I hit a plateau in that position and there wasn’t much room for movement. So when this job became available, I called my friend who was already here and asked about the group. I came to visit with my wife and we fell in love with Georgia.

Q

WHAT ARE SOME DEFINING MOMENTS OR EVENTS IN YOUR CAREER?

ANSWER: One that really stands out was an unfortunate circumstance

A future doctor in the family?

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

&

Q

A with Dr. Michael Quackenbush

21

22

HEALTH

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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MAKING THE SHIFT FROM PEDIATRICS TO PRIMARY CARE The transition process from the pediatrician to the primary care physician is an important, yet little discussed concept in healthcare.

As children, patients are typically accompanied by their parents or guardians to the pediatrician’s office. Most of the paperwork and conversation flows through the adults and the children have very little involvement in their own treatment.

However, it is important for young adults to gain ownership of their healthcare so that they may transition smoothly and effectively into a primary care facility when the time comes.

Beth L. Simati, M.D. “The teen years are a great time to start making that transition,” North Fulton Primary Care’s Dr. Beth Simati said. “Their needs have often changed and they sometimes feel uncomfortable if an office “You can also request a copy of is geared towards babies and younger your records to have in your children. It is also a great time for young adults to start taking more re- possession,” Simati said. “If there are frequent moves and multiple offices, sponsibility and ownership of their health. As they prepare to head off to this is sometimes easiest. Everyone should know what conditions they college or into the working world, have been treated for and what medthey will need to navigate on their ications they are on. It is difficult to own. Seeing a Family Doctor as a restart a medication quickly if we teen can help them feel more have to track down the name or dose. confident as they step out on their own. Typically during a visit, the time One thing colleges always require is a would be split between interviewing copy of the shot record. Keeping an the patient with a parent present and updated copy at home can be quite handy.” time with the patient alone. This Simple steps such as teaching your gives the patient an opportunity to child to ask questions can make a sigask questions they may be embarrassed to talk about with their nificant difference in easing the transition to adult health care. It will mom and dad.” also help to establish a healthy So what does it mean for a young adult to take ownership of his or her communication and trust between patient and doctor throughout that healthcare? Among other things, it patient’s lifetime. Much like with any means that a young adult should have knowledge of his or her own al- transition in life, early exposure to good habits and healthy practices can lergies, medications, previous pay off in the long-term health and treatments and how to access their wellness of a patient. medical records.

North Fulton Hospital Partners With Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta To Present Power Of Pink Fashion Show And Casino Night

Over $65,000 was raised at this year’s “Power of Pink” event hosted by North Fulton Hospital in conjunction with Susan G. Komen of Greater Atlanta on September 27.

Guests enjoyed a fashion show featuring Breast Cancer survivors, as well as casino-style gaming, fabulous prizes and more. Several local businesses helped to sponsor the event as a way to give back to the community for a great cause.

“Thomas Eye Group was happy to be a sponsor of the 2014 “Power of Pink” event in conjunction with North Fulton Hospital. Breast Cancer has such a devastating impact on women and their families and we are proud of helping to raise money

to find a cure”, said Rod Roeser, CEO of Thomas Eye Group.

North Fulton Hospital is committed to providing excellent care to patients in the Breast Care Center. The hospital’s Breast Care Team consists of board certified radiologists, surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists and reconstructive surgeons who collaborate to provide high quality, integrated care to patients.

See photos from the event at: checkupforchicks.com/2014power-of-pink/

OPEN ENROLLMENT UPDATE On Saturday, November 15, North Fulton Hospital and Get Covered America partnered to hold the first Open Enrollment event for the 2015 year. Several certified navigators were on hand to lend their expertise and help guide attendees through the process of enrolling in the health insurance exchange.

The purpose of these events is to pro-

vide community members who may have questions about what their options are under the new Affordable Care Act, and to provide access to specially trained and licensed individuals who can educate them about their choices and offer a step-by-step walk through of the registration process.

The Open Enrollment period lasts through February 2015, and North

Fulton Hospital will have an event each month. Many of the attendees at the first event found programs and policies that worked for their budgets and their lifestyles and were able to enroll on the spot.

Upcoming events will be held on Saturday, December 20 from 10 a.m2 p.m, Saturday, January 17 (2015) from 10 a.m-2 p.m and Tuesday,

February 3 (2015) from 4 p.m-7 p.m.

If you are interested in enrolling but are unable to make one of these events, North Fulton Hospital has a benefits navigator on site to assist with enrollment on an appointment basis.

To schedule or receive more information, check pathtohealth.com or call 770-751-2756.

24 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

WHEN TOYS DO GOOD Lego Building Systems as Cultural Phenomenon

Harry Nijenkamp in his Lego Lab.

By Tripp Liles

This is the time of year for toys. If you have children and watch any of the networks geared toward a younger audience, the commercials for a wide variety of toys are seemingly endless. At the top of the popularity charts is Lego®. Having long been a staple in the children’s toy lexicon, Lego has rebuilt its brand over the past decade with a multitude of building sets, theme parks, and even a motion picture using Lego toys as animated characters.

The appeal of Lego, however, goes far into adulthood. Harry Nijenkamp is one such adult who has a passion for Lego building bricks, and he has passed that on to his 19-year-old son Austin. Nijenkamp, who was born and raised in Holland, had a sharp design acumen at an early age. In those days the Lego systems were geared toward a creative building process rather than the predetermined kit systems kids use today.

“I started doing Legos at my neighbor’s house when I was five years old,” Nijenkamp stated. “My parents couldn’t afford Lego toys. It was expensive even back then, 50 years ago in Holland.”

In many ways Nijenkamp is living the American dream. Over 30 years ago, Nijenkamp came to the U.S., and after gaining citizenship, he started his own business, Dutch Masters Painting, Inc., with his wife Kristy. Over time his obsession with Lego bricks has grown to include what he calls his “Lego Lab” in his home where he builds massive displays that can feature over 1 million pieces. His collection includes over 3 million pieces and he has created skyscrapers as tall as 12 feet. Nijenkamp, though, does not do this just for fun.

It is a great way to spend time with his son Austin, and the father puts his expert skills to work by building intricate city scenes in his lab, then transports them to various businesses during the holiday season to raise money for local charities. To Nijenkamp, the benefits of Lego toys to children are numerous.

Harry assembles a piece of the skyscraper on display at High Meadows.

25 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

“You learn math when you do this because you have to count. You learn engineering concepts because you have to put things together so they don’t fall over. And you learn how to be creative and collaborate with other people. You also have to be super organized or you just can’t do it,” Nijenkamp said.

The worlds Nijenkamp builds are astonishingly detailed, with numerous subtleties that cannot all be captured in one viewing. Each time you look, you see details you did not notice before. He builds his cityscapes to scale from a small Lego figure, and numerous characters are spread around the display giving the audience the impression they are witnessing a slice of life. On most of his displays, Nijenkamp will offer viewers a scavenger hunt to locate certain characters within the display.

Additionally, he takes creative license during the building process to incorporate many architectural styles within one cityscape.

“We don’t like copying a building,” Nijenkamp says of the creative process. “A lot of people do that. We like creating it… dreaming it up. I’ve got stuff in my mind. I saw a lot of different architecture traveling the world.”

His son Austin brings another strong element to the process because

he designs in a more technical process. Currently pursuing a degree in geography with the ultimate aim of being an urban planner, Austin is putting years of Lego building to practical work. From an early age, he had an eye for sidewalk placements and a keen interest in building functions and design aesthetics.

“Austin laid this city out and one of the ideas he had he got from the city park in Savannah where they make a park then build around it. So that’s where the parks come from,” Nijenkamp said.

Lego For A Great Cause His newest display will launch a branding initiative called Celebricktion Displays. These exhibitions will appeal to kids and adults of all ages, and in December they will be on display at High Meadows School in Roswell as a fundraiser for The Drake House. This cityscape will feature over a million pieces that will be built in his lab, then transported to High Meadows for display. The organization of such a job mirrors that of a real construction process with a lot of prefabrication work, designs, and stages set for a uniform building process. In order to complete this job, Nijenkamp has utilized several Lego online trading sites where master builders from all over the world share resources and unique brick combinations. He estimates that there are over 1,200 man-hours involved in the build that will debut at High Meadows.

“We started thinking that it would be fun if people could see this at Christmas time and someone could benefit from it,” Nijenkamp says. “We thought it would be great to work with a local non-profit Continues on p26

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When Toys Do Good… continued from p25

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com that didn’t have a CEO who makes a half a million bucks. We want to collect money for an organization that puts money where it needs to go. I talked to the Drake House and I liked their success rate. They don’t just hand money out to people. They teach people not to get back into the same situation again.”

The Drake House is named after Mary Drake, a Roswell native who advocated for those in need and helped create North Fulton Community Charities. They provide short-term housing, education, and empowerment programs for homeless mothers and their children, with the ultimate aim of self-suffiency.

Since opening in 2006, The Drake House has helped over 320 families with nearly 600 children get back on their feet.

“Fundraisers organized by individuals in our community help not only to raise funds for The Drake House, but also to raise awareness of the need for programs like ours in the community.

We are most grateful to Harry for using his talents to raise much needed funds for The Drake House,” said Karen Pye, Development Director at The Drake House. “As a grassroots non-profit, The Drake House obtains funding from a variety of sources, such as individuals, civic and faithbased organizations, corporations, and government funding. With recent cutbacks in government funding, we depend even more on support from our community to sustain our emergency housing and empowerment programs for

homeless single mothers and their children.”

Nijenkamp has worked tirelessly to see this event come to fruition.

Beyond the man-hours both he and Austin put in, there is an actual cost involved in this production, estimated to be around $25,000.

“The Drake House has a very high success rate. I started hitting people up to get contributions to help us pay and it was a lot easier when I mentioned The Drake House,” Nijenkamp said.

To date he has received various donations from individuals and businesses like Cox Media; The Goddard Schools; and local restaurants, Vuu Asian Bistro and Slopes BBQ. Each of these entities will have special Lego buildings and signs incorporating their brands into this unique cityscape.

The Celebricktion Display will be on exhibit for the public at High Meadows School on Dec. 20 through Dec. 22, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a $10 dollar admission fee (children under 3 free) with 100% of the money going to The Drake House. To provide insight into how the creative process works, a replica of Nijenkamp’s Lego Lab will be on display. You may view a Lego robotics demonstration and numerous creations by Lego enthusiasts from around the Atlanta area. High Meadows School is located at 1055 Willeo Road in Roswell. For more info visit the Celebricktion site at www.celebricktion.com and for more info on The Drake House visit www.thedrakehouse.org.

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DEAR DI… Of Dating And Holiday Dinners

By Di Chapman

It’s a crapshoot

Oh, boy. This with a baked question from ham or turkey Jim in Roswell is attached. a great one.

“Should I go to a date’s family holiday dinner?”

The first blush of love leads us down many unknown roads.

It’s part of the journey as we explore a new date’s potential for a serious relationship. There are things we traditionally do at some point, like meeting the family, often at holiday meals. What we find is anybody’s guess. We’re mature enough to know this. My advice is all-inclusive to any there’s a theme imbedded in the holiday your date’s family genetic wiring. What if you’re not a celebrates.

If you’ve met someone with whom you could potentially have something special, it can be a pleasure meeting his or her family at a reunion for the holiday. It could be a meal, or a weekend, depending on the invitation, of enjoyable anecdotes about your date and her family history. Your rose-colored glasses are firmly in place.

But sometimes you lose the glasses and enter The Twilight Zone or It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

My own family’s holiday dinners were scenes taken from this very movie.

The point is, going to meet a date’s family at a holiday dinner is a game show that offers you “Door #1, Door #2 or Door #3.” It’s a complete wild card. Indelicately put, it’s a crapshoot with a baked ham or turkey attached.

The nature of family gatherings has inspired playwrights and screen writers for centuries. Think Shakespeare and all the cunning and conniving that goes into his plays involving family celebrations, meals and funerals. Where do you think he got his material? Family gatherings always bring out the best, and craziest, of dynamics. What happens if you meet Uncle Fester, Lurch, or Honey Boo Boo at dinner? Sure, your new girlfriend may be beautiful and demure, but behind every family

fan of The Addams Family or the Honey Boo Boo show?

I’ve been to homes where the holiday dinner was fraught with tantrums, crying, fussing, and kicking, and those were just the adult outbursts. Would you enjoy that?

One family I know throws daggers every year because the women are always trying to outdo each other for breast size. Who sports ’em bigger this year? (This you might enjoy!)

If you do decide to accompany your date to a family holiday, there are two things you must heed: First, nothing tells you more about your date than time with her or him on a family holiday. They are from whom they spawned. If your alarm goes off, will you persevere, or bail?

Next, it’s a confirmation of who you are. We, too, are what our family taught us to be. Good or bad, we haul that ball and chain around our entire lives. Is your ball and chain compatible with hers?

Yes, I know it’s unromantic!

So is marrying someone who is incompatible.

Food for thought.

Happy Holidays, my dear readers!

Need advice on your love life? Send an email to Di at diychapman@icloud.com. All correspondence is confidential.

27 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

LIFE

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COMMUNITY

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RIVERWALK VILLAGE: ROSWELL’S NEXT ACT East Roswell development is back in the spotlight.

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By Mike Hadden

In November, news broke on a huge real estate development slated for 104 acres of the southeast quadrant of Holcomb Bridge Road and the GA 400 interchange. It’s the biggest development news out of Roswell in years. It could be the biggest news out of Roswell since the last development was proposed in virtually the same area.

Many readers will recall the failed $2 billion Roswell East (aka Charlie Brown) proposal in 2007 that succumbed to significant neighborhood backlash before it had the opportunity to succumb to the real estate downturn. The new project, Riverwalk Village, is still very ambitious and carries $500 million price tag? There is simply too much to cover in one column but here’s the quick and dirty.

It’s much smaller than the Charlie Brown proposal but it’s still huge. It could have up to 1,556 residences with some multifamily (renter

THE COMPARISONS ARE BOUND TO CONTINUE BUT RIVERWALK VILLAGE WILL BE STRIKINGLY DIFFERENT THAN WHAT YOU FIND AT AVALON. The project is being led by Duke Land Group of Dunwoody. They are seeking rezoning from the city and have presented a site plan that they believe works within the new UDC to provide the type of development that the city sees as contextually appropriate for that part of the city. Asking around, this group seems to be well heeled and very capable of executing on the vision.

The official announcement came roughly one week after the opening of Avalon, another nearby mixeduse mega-project at Old Milton and GA 400 in Alpharetta. This seemed very timely and no doubt was meant to capitalize on the excitement surrounding the opening of a high profile walkable

mixed-use development. The comparisons are bound to continue but Riverwalk Village will be strikingly different than what you find at Avalon. First and foremost, Riverwalk has the Chattahoochee. The only river that Avalon has next to it is the river of cars running up and down GA400. Riverwalk is mixed-use and it’s roughly the same size parcel but Duke will be going for more of a village or neighborhood feel than an upscale shopping destination.

The Specifics The current site plan calls for 16 different sections broken out into 7 categories, each with a slightly different intent and purpose. For the most part, I think Duke has hit the nail on the head.

A1-A2 – Office District – Well located along the western edge placing it closest to 400, keeping the residential and retail further away from the highway.

B1 – Medium Density Residential (Townhomes) – I really like that this parcel is situated close to the river and will offer some of the best walkability options for residents who will be able to walk to shops, restaurants, offices, and a national park (and eventually a train station?).

C1-C8 – Mixed Use Development District (Residential & NonResidential Uses, Such as Retail, Restaurant, Civic, Office, MultiFamily, Entertainment) – This one is a bit tough to envision but the obvious main point is that it will front what appears to be a Main Street that bisects the new development. This could create a great walkable street on the east side of Roswell where nothing close to a walkable urban street currently exists. The small bridge crossing the lake should be a great focal point.

D1 – School or Alternate Residential District – Well played. This part of the property abuts 21 single family homes in Martins Landing, the most vocal opponent of Roswell East. So, they make some options.

E1-E2 – Entertainment District (Restaurant, Retail, Grocery, Multi-Family) – Everyone loves entertainment. From the initial Continues on p38

29 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

and owner occupied), senior housing and single-family attached homes. Office space could total 1.7 million square feet, a tad more than the Bank of America building in Midtown Atlanta. That’s on top of almost 500k square feet of retail and a 200 room full-service hotel. The Swift School could open a new campus and about 43 percent of the overall site is reserved for green space and walking trails that would connect to the river and nearby neighborhoods.

This project is quite simply a mixed-use behemoth.

Under the current proposal, the buildings will be low- to mid-rise with the tallest proposed buildings being 10 stories. Most of those taller buildings will be down the hill using the topography to create the illusion that the buildings aren’t as tall. The hotel would be 28 rooms larger than the Doubletree, currently Roswell’s largest.

30 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

FOOD

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AND FOR THE MAIN COURSE… I MEAN EVENT

37 Main meets the criteria for the perfect rock-and-roll club/music venue

By Frank Mack

I have a fantasy of the perfect club/music venue for deadly serious rock and roll. This fantasy starts not with the bar or the food but rather with the stage. A very professional stage that has it all. Big-time power, bright lights and most importantly, great acoustics. Ladies and gentlemen, if you believe the music never ends, then I have the place for you!

It is called 37 Main and from this day forward if someone asks if the OTP rocks—you just say 37 Main. My fantasy has arrived.

Don’t let the location or the exterior put you off. In the heart of golf club suburbia these guys have built an unmatched joint that rocks.

At 37 Main the musicians can actually hear themselves on stage while just destroying the room with 60,000 watts behind them.

Yes you heard me—60,000 watts.

That wattage is tucked into a 3,500 square foot room and trying to convey this to you is nearly impossible given my limited grasp of the English language. You have to stretch your imagination beyond anything you’ve experienced. The beats produced here are waves of pleasure and the connection from artist to audience is amazing.

My fantasy room would hold

around a thousand people. For me a crowd of that size stays heatedly intimate without being too big. At 37 Main they can hold about a thousand people and you can be inches from the band or just chill out on the patio bar where conversations are possible.

From front to back everyone on stage can see into the eyes of the audience and vice versa. I like that… actual contact! Throw that Ipod away!

The music lovers and musicians are finding this place and it will improve over time because the three brothers who own the joint, Dave, Joe, and John White have already built the smaller 37 Main in Buford.

The bars here are solid and wellstaffed. It’s like Vegas in that if you fall down you’ll either hit a bar or a

waitress, so needless to say you will not be thirsty. Looking to get your holiday party on? Bring it. These guys can handle anything you throw at them. Here is an important note for our female readers. This place has huge clean bathrooms, and get this — they have attendants on the weekends. Yeah! Celebrate all the clean porcelain and no lines. For purposes of full disclosure I did not venture into the ladies room. I did send 3 trustworthy spies in there to be 100% sure, though.

Since I am the food writer, I have to give a nod to the kitchen. Yes, they have high-quality, made-fromscratch bar food. It features a wide array of appetizers, wings, salads and entrees that feature chicken, fish, steaks and pasta. Of course they also have a variety of burgers and sandwiches to round out the menu.

Coming in December, they are having a Toys for Tots concert on the 18th, a Journey tribute band called Departure on the 19th and get this— local rock legends Drivin’ and Cryin’ will be there on Jan. 3! Each week they have karaoke on Mondays and Dueling Pianos on Tuesdays. For the most part the bands are cover/tribute bands and rock is generally the focus.

So if you want to relive the college days, here’s your chance. 37 Main is located at 6000 Medlock Bridge Parkway in Johns Creek. Call 678-580-2329 or visit 37main.com for more details and show times. Oh yea, I’d be remiss if I didn’t also remind you of the opposite end of the musical spectrum—The Velvet Note.

We’ve profiled this gem before but incase you’ve forgotten, The Velvet Note features world-class jazz in an intimate setting, so no matter your taste, you’ve got no excuse to sit home this holiday season.

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In other food news—I’ve got a secret for you.

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

From front to back everyone on stage can see into the eyes of the audience and vice versa.

FOOD NOTES Nosh, located in Roswell where Phish Food used to be, at the Corner of Woodstock and Crossville roads, is doing great stuff. I think this is going to be a real honest-to-goodness homegrown place with talent humming over the stove. So far so good. I like this place a lot. They’re still waiting on the liquor license but if we give this place time it will turn into a neighborhood staple.

One of my faves, Adele’s Cajun has secured the old Artisan Bakery spot at the end of Canton Street that features the old log cabins. Marc Wegman, owner of Adele’s, will surely work his same magic at the new location. The burning question is will they keep their current location? Could we have two Adele’s? Only time will tell.

Yikes! Been to Avalon? Loads of restaurants in there! I haven’t found the courage to fight the crowds but I can recommend a place nearby and this is an important note… let’s not forget about the great places around Avalon, not just in Avalon. Haiku Sushi and Steakhouse is one such gem. These guys feature a hibachi dining room and a sushi dining room with a great staff. Their chefs are pros at the culinary arts and I mean that literally. Not only is the food great but also the overall presentation is theatrical. The sushi side has fresh, high-quality ingredients and of course, they have a full bar with saké.

Culinary theater at Haiku Sushi and Steakhouse

Haiku is a great place to take your friends or family during the holiday season. So avoid the corporate holiday crush at Avalon and give these guys a try. Haiku is located at 5966 North Point Parkway in Alpharetta.

32 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

HOME

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PLANTS FOR A WINTER CUTTING GARDEN

An outstanding specimen, the coral bark maple tree stands out in the winter garden

By Nancy Wallace

We often talk about the best plants for a summer cutting garden, but why not consider plants for a winter cutting garden as well? Just as you would set aside an area of the garden for a seasonal color bed, or to grow herbs and vegetables, wouldn’t you also want to include a collection of plants that provide winter interest? Bare branches of some trees and shrubs are more ornamental in winter than the growing season. Many deciduous and evergreen plants produce late-winter or early-spring blooms that can be brought indoors to enjoy while it’s still chilly outside. The act of bringing deciduous branches indoors to bloom is known as “forcing.” You may already be growing some of these plants, and if so, you have the start of a winter cutting garden.

33 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

First, a few tips about forcing branches that bloom indoors: (1) the best time to clip branches in a winter garden is when temperatures have been above freezing for a couple of days; (2) select branches with lots of plump buds; (3) remove foliage and flowers at the lower end of the branch so that only the bare branch will be submerged in water (this ensures that water in the vase stays fresher for a longer period The redbud tree (Cercis canadensis) of time); (4) change the is covered with bright pink blooms in early spring water in the vase every three to four days; and (5) branches become adorned with lovely, clip the branches at an angle so that fuchsia-infused ruby flowers. the tips can more readily absorb Chaenomeles (flowering quince) is water once in the vase (or, for woody an edible landscape shrub (when stems, use a hammer to flatten the grown under organic conditions), bottom two inches of each branch). producing late-autumn fruit. The Here are some of my favorite fruit is high in vitamin C and is used plants for a winter cutting garden. to make jellies and preserves. Some Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ quince are ground-cover type shrubs, (coral bark maple tree) is a stunning while others can reach heights of six winter specimen. Not only is the fall feet or more. The branches are leaf color on this Japanese maple tree typically twisted and contorted with spectacular, but the winter branches thorns, which makes the branches all provide a splash of color in the dead the more interesting when dormant. of winter. Prune the coral bark maple Cut in long segments for forcing tree once a year to maintain and con- indoors, and keep out of direct trol its shape. In the process of sunlight for better bloom production. selective pruning, bring some of the Forsythia is one of the first indicabranches indoors and add them to tors of spring here in Georgia. Don’t winter cutting garden arrangements. clip forsythia branches for forcing Camellia sasanqua (late fall to until a couple of weeks before their early winter bloom) and Camellia natural bloom time. Removing japonica (early spring bloom) provide branches too early will prevent them color in the landscape when not from blooming indoors. Forsythia much else is in bloom. Both are ever- produces long, arching canes covered green shrubs. Clip flower- and with fluorescent-yellow flowers, so bud-laden branches from healthy make long cuttings from this shrub. shrubs and bring indoors to enjoy To get the most out of forsythia, cut during the colder months. Both of at an angle so that branches absorb these camellias have good staying more water when placed in a vase. power when placed in a vase of water. Once the branches are in a vase, keep Use camellias alone or in out of direct sunlight, as this will procombination with other winter long the overall bloom cycle when foliage plants like lenten roses and they break dormancy. autumn ferns.

Wander through your own winter Cercis canadensis (Eastern garden. You’ll find a lot of “dead redbud tree) has bright pink flowers beauty” and “dormant beauty” on the along the branches before leaves branches, just waiting to be emerge in spring. This is a good discovered. choice for forcing indoors. Cut the Nancy provides garden design & branches in 18-36" lengths for the renovation services. Follow her blog: best effect, and remember to use a wallacegardens.tumblr.com taller, heavier vase to accommodate the height of the branches. As the buds begin to swell open, the

34 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

COMMUNITY

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>>Christmas Events/Concerts

PHYLIS SIMONI Cell: 404-456-2683 REALTOR

Fax: 678-391-3690 Email: simoni@kw.com www.psimoni.com

Roswell United Methodist Church in Roswell will be holding Christmas Festival Concerts on Dec. 12 & 14. This concert will feature the RUMC Sanctuary Choir and Christmas Festival Hand Bells; and special guests Karen Minton (WSB TV) and Georgia Philharmonic. Tickets for the event are complimentary but necessary to ensure seating. For tickets please call 770-594-0512. RUMC is located at 814 Mimosa Blvd. in Roswell.

Additionally, RUMC will feature a Messiah Sing-Along featuring the Michael O’Neal Singers on Sunday Dec 21 at 3pm. Tickets range from $15 to $22 and can be purchased at the door.

Mount Pisgah UMC will host the North Atlanta Christmas Festival.

This event, in its 9th year, will take place Dec. 12-14 and will feature a Broadway style performance that features over 400 volunteers. For more info visit www.NACFOnline.com.

On Dec. 13 and 14 Johns Creek UMC will have a live nativity and Christmas Fair. This will feature the story of baby Jesus and you will have the opportunity to pet live animals, roast marshmallows and enjoy hot chocolate. There will also be fair trade gifts from Ten Thousand Villages.

Additionally they will have a special Christmas Eve Service on Dec. 14 that features 4 times at 3pm, 5pm, 7pm and 11pm. JCUMC is located at 11180 Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek. Call 770-497-8215 or visit JohnsCreekUMC.org for more info.

The Velvet Note in Alpharetta will have a special Candlelight Christmas Concert featuring Debbie Tyson Rosen On Saturday Dec. 13 with two shows at 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Rosen is vocalist from Cumming, Georgia who has performed the classic jazz “Standards” songbook since the early ‘90’s. Along with her husband Jess, she has performed around the area with their jazz quintet and provided backup vocals for recordings. The Velvet Note is located at 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta. For more info call 855-583-5838.

On Dec. 14 from at 1pm Atlanta Plays It Forward and The Roswell Visitors Bureau present an afternoon of holiday swing and jazz music by Reflections. Reflections’ musical library consists of over 300 classic tunes from the 1940’s and 50’s. They have added some Latin, Rock and holiday numbers to keep things interesting for all occasions and to satisfy a variety of musical appetites. Reflections is led by bandleader JC Campbell and musical director Daniel Price. The Rowell Visitor’s Center is located at 617 Atlanta Street in Roswell. The event is free.

>>Recycle Christmas Trees Save Your Christmas Tree for the Chipper My exceptional service will MOVE YOU!

Keep Roswell Beautiful invites residents to give nature a gift this holiday season by recycling their Christmas trees at the 24th annual “Bring One for

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the Chipper” event on January 3.

As part of a statewide effort to reuse Christmas trees, Keep Roswell Beautiful has joined with sponsors The Home Depot, 11 Alive, The Davey Tree Expert Company and the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation to sponsor the “Bring One for the Chipper” program locally.

Residents are invited to bring their undecorated trees to one of the two Home Depot locations in Roswell on Saturday, January 3, from 9am to 4pm; Home Depot, Holcomb Bridge Road (Holcomb Woods Shopping Center) and Home Depot, 870 Woodstock Road (across from Publix).

Trees will be chipped into mulch and will be available for delivery to the public by Davey Tree. In appreciation of their recycling efforts, participants will receive a special gift, while supplies last. Residents are asked to please not drop off trees prior January 3. Last year, more than 9,000 trees were collected in Roswell. For more information or to volunteer at the event, please visit www.keeproswellbeautiful.org.

>>New Years Events The Big Peach Drop

Join more than 175,000 people at the 25th Annual Peach Drop 2015 NYE celebration at Underground Atlanta, the largest New Years Eve celebration in the southeast. This fun, family-friendly 16 hour event is packed with lots of entertainment including; carnival-style rides, live music, face painting, street performers, food festival, live entertainment, 800 pound peach drop at midnight.

A Stones New Year's Eve Stephen Skipper and his Rolling Stones Tribute band are back for New Year’s Eve! Ring in 2015 with one of the best rock shows in Atlanta and all of the Stones favorites.

Skipper puts on a show that teems with the same unbridled spirit and raw energy that made The Rolling Stones the iconic act it is today. Fans will be satisfied with the pout, preen and raunchy riff they’d expect, bringing the entertainment level of an over-the-top arena show up close and personal in The Strand’s 500-seat theatre. Opening the night is the Big Chicken Beatles Band, making this show a true British Invasion concert. The Strand Theatre is located at 117 North Park Square in Marietta. Call 770-293-0080 for more info.

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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36 December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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Paul Byrom

>>East Cobb KSU Brings Ireland’s Premier Tenor To Campus The Kennesaw State University Retirees Association partners with one of Ireland's Premier Tenors, Paul Byrom, to present a unique fundraising concert event on Sunday evening, Dec. 14. at 7pm.

To see Paul Byrom perform live, in concert is to love him. In addition to having a remarkable vocal talent, Paul is quite a comedian and often takes audiences by surprise with his charming Irish wit, physical comedy, and penchant for humorous, dramatic storytelling. Paul's performances take the audience on a roller coaster of emotions, from poignant tears to hysterical laughing. It will be a night you won't soon forget.

All tickets include a meet and greet immediately following the performance, where you can take a photo with Paul and get an autograph on OfďŹ cial Paul Byrom merchandise. Tickets will not be available for sale at the event so please bring your printed ticket with you, as virtual tickets will not be accepted. This is an all ages, family friendly concert event, but everyone must have a ticket for admittance.

Paul recently released his 5th solo album, Thinking Of Home, a collection of songs that pay tribute to his homeland in Ireland, as well as his new home in America. His debut Public Television special was released in 2013 to complement his album, This Is The Moment, which hit #1 on the Billboard World Music and Amazon Charts. Paul is the original lead tenor of the PBS sensation, Celtic Thunder, and in 2012 he was honored as "Best Tenor" at the Irish Music Awards. Visit www.paulbyrom.ie to see a list of his upcoming performances.

The KSU Retirees Association established its Legacy Scholarship in 2009 and since that inception has awarded over $14,000 to student relatives of KSU retirees. Your ticket purchase will help raise the muchneeded funds to continue our Legacy Scholarship. KSU Center (not on main campus) is located at 3333 Busbee Drive in Kennesaw. Visit www.paulbyromatlanta.brownpapertickets.com for tickets.

>>Performing Arts Cultural Arts Center Receives $10,000 Grant from National Endowment for the Arts The Roswell Cultural Arts Center has received a $10,000 Arts Engagement in American Communities (AEAC) grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to support community engagement through workshops during the 2015 Roswell Summer Puppet Series.

The grant will be used by the Cultural Arts Center to host puppet-mak-

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ing workshops in collaboration with the puppeteer companies performing each week, providing the local community with opportunities for handson creativity, collaboration and exploration of basic engineering concepts.

“This project answers the call from our community for more involvement, more opportunities for hands-on experiences with the performing artists that visit the Roswell Cultural Arts Center,” says Sarah Chandler, RCAC Coordinator. “The NEA grant will help us support this type of creativity and collaboration and hopefully inspire the next generation of great thinkers and creators.”

The Cultural Arts Center also is in preliminary discussions with the Center for Puppetry Arts to develop a partnership that may incorporate some of its educational programs in this season’s presentation of puppet shows.

Tickets for all shows will be available beginning March 1, 2015, in person and at www.roswellcac.com. Workshop dates and times will be confirmed in the coming months and information will be released in March 2015.

>>Red Noses Reindeer Day At The CNC A Chattahoochee Nature Center winter tradition returns for its 4th year on Sunday Dec. 14 from 1 to 4pm. Come out for a day all about winter animals and holiday cheer. This event will feature fun activities; straight from the wintery north…North Cobb that is! You will have the chance to meet live reindeer that bring the magic and tradition of the holidays alive for the entire family. It wouldn’t be the holidays without Santa Turtle.

The CNC’s own Celebrity Box Turtle will be roaming throughout the afternoon. The young and young at heart will enjoy sitting down to CNC’s unique story time at 1pm. This interactive show is full of laughs and lessons about the wonders of winter. Learn all about how native Georgia animals are adapted for southern winters and meet one of CNC’s resident wildlife during the Creature Feature at 2pm.

You will also have the chance to make reindeer antlers and decorate winter trees to take home during Winter Woodland Crafts from 1 to 4pm.

In the Nature Exchange try the Exploration Table and explore everything from reindeer antlers to beaver furs. Touch and learn about what makes different animals unique when it comes to winter survival. Warm up by the Campfire and enjoy the winter weather. Everything is included with General Admission. The CNC is located at 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell.

For more info visit www.chattnaturecenter.org.

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

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Riverwalk Village… continued from p29

December 2014 | thecurrenthub.com

renderings, they seem to have done an excellent job putting this area next to the lake, using the water in an urban fashion actually building right up to the water. Be prepared to be Entertained!

F1 – Hotel District (Hotel, Civic, Multi-Family) – Positioned directly on the little lake. Well thought out and Roswell needs this. Period!

Greenspace – (Parks, Trails, Landscaping) – A real opportunity to differentiate the development THERE’S virtually NO SUGAR from any other in COATING Atlanta. MixedTHAT. Use with a connection to the THE CITY AND STATE Chattahoochee River and the NEED TO Roswell STEP UP Riverside Trail AND FIX and potential THE MARTA connecHOLCOMB tivity.

This project BRIDGE will increase a ROAD/ lot of things not GA400 the least of AREA. which are the tax rolls and traffic. The first is obviously a win for the county while the second is going to make what is already a bad situation a bit worse. There’s no sugar coating that. The city and state need to step up and fix the Holcomb Bridge Road/GA400 interchange. There are some small projects underway but much more is needed. It sure would be nice to have the $46 million in improvements from TSPLOST but that’s spilt milk. Current projects like the early off ramp from 400N, the extended northbound turn lane to 400N from Old Alabama and the realignment of Holcomb Bridge Road eastbound to eliminate the lane switching before Old Alabama will all help but more is needed. The traffic planners in Roswell may have a few tricks up their sleeves but ultimately GA Department of Transportation will play a vital role in traffic relief.

Food For Thought Now that I’ve given you most of the facts, it’s time to share some of

my thoughts.

If the developer is truly going for a village feel, architecture and street design are critical. Modern corporate architecture does not jive with a village feel. Don’t try to be Avalon. Take inspiration from some of the award winning developments from metro Atlanta such as Serenbe, Vickery Village and Glenwood Park and incorporate the designs seen in our historic district that make Roswell great.

Roads should be as narrow as humanly possible and connect as much as possible. Villages and wide roads don’t mix. Villages and fine grained connectivity do. Also, let’s finally connect the greenway to the river.

Figure out the MARTA solution now rather than later. Everyone will be better off for it. I’ve heard an underground solution might be necessary due to the incline from the river. How cool would that be to enter Roswell by subway and walk to the River?

Old Alabama Avenue should be turned into a grand tree-lined avenue in the European style, from Holcomb Bridge Road all the way to the river. Duany, PlaterZyberk and Company gave us a fantastic model in their Historic Gateway Master Plan.

Gigabit Internet connectivity. It’s a must. Avalon has set the standard. If we are serious about attracting business and entrepreneurs, we must have the fast Internet speeds that they require.

I personally wish Duke success.

If all goes well with permitting and approvals, ground could be broken in late 2015. One thing is for certain, a lot will change between now and the finished product. Look forward to more coverage of Riverwalk Village by The CurrentHub and check my blog www.NewUrbanRoswell.com for my thoughts and opinions.

Michael authors the blog newurbanroswell.com. You may contact him at: michaeldhadden@gmail.com