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www.thecurrenthub.com May 2015
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HEALTH p19 presented by North Fulton Hospital • pages 19 – 22
STROKE MONTH DR. MICHAEL LIPSCOMB VOLUNTEER WEEK EDUCATION p24
THE ABCS OF STANDARDIZED TESTING FOOD p28
BY THE TIME WE GOT TO WOODSTOCK ALSO... DATING, ENTERTAINMENT, AND KIDS
A SHAKY SUMMER
THE SHAKY BOOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL USHERS IN A SUMMER OF GREAT MUSIC
OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW ARE JUST ONE OF SEVERAL BIG NAME ACTS AT NEW FESTIVAL. p36
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Currentchoices The Month in Preview May 2015
>>KEEP ON TRUCKIN’
>>YEA MOM!
Food Truck Fridays
25th Annual Colors Festival of Arts
May 29 The food truck craze continues this summer at Riverside Park in Roswell. This event happens on the last Friday of each month through October from 5pm to 9pm. Bring chairs, blankets and drinks. The City will supply music and picnic tables at Riverside Park, a beautiful family-friendly venue that includes pavilions, two playgrounds, and a sprayground. (Sprayground will open for the season on May 23. Friday hours are 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; $2 per person fee for sprayground use.)
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May 9&10
>>REMEMBER OUR FALLEN Roswell Remembers Memorial Day Ceremony is truly a patriotic ceremony with no commercialization of the event. Every effort is made to keep the focus on those who gave all in service to their country. The event takes place at the Faces of War Memorial, a 14-foot tall brick wall containing a life-size bronze sculpture, located at Roswell City Hall. The ceremony will be hosted by radio personality Moby. Moby has a 25-year history as the top morning DJ in Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta, where he was the top-rated morning personality for 10 years. After the Military Ceremony you can enjoy a picnic on the grounds, or purchase BBQ available on site, as you listen to live music by the Chuck Nation Band, the Atlanta Wind Symphony, and the Chattahoochee Celtic Pipes and Drums. For more info please visit www.roswellmemorialday.com. New this year, the city of Alpharetta will also have a Memorial Day tribute. Together with the Rotary Club of Alpharetta they will host the Inaugural Memorial Day Tribute on Monday, May 25 at 8:30 a.m. at Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza. The event is free for the public to attend. The day kicks off with a performance by the Alpharetta City Band followed by a program including keynote speaker, Lt. Nick Snider. Snider has dedicated his life to creating the National Museum of Patriotism in Atlanta, which opened on July 4, 2004.
Memorial Day Ceremonies
May25
>LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Marietta International Film Festival
>>>
May 21-25
Mother’s Day Weekend of 2015 will bring lots of “colors” to the historic Roswell Town Square. Artists and craftsmen arrive from areas around the Southeast, joining with Roswell and North Fulton artists to present a magnificent show. Entertainment is scheduled throughout the day and ranges from storytelling to vocalists, instrumentalists to dance performances. An array of festive food vendors will be on hand to satisfy the appetite. Browse to your heart’s content and purchase those items you hear calling your name. If you haven’t found the perfect Mother’s Day gift yet, don’t fret… Mom is sure to find something she will love at the Colors Festival of Arts.
The Marietta International Film Festival is a collaboration between Long Shot Productions, Ltd., The Earl Smith Strand Theater, The City of Marietta, and Cobb County, Georgia. Held in the Earl Smith Strand Theater on beautiful Marietta Square each spring, this festival is an opportunity for filmmakers of all levels to share their work. There will be a wide array of films on offer from narrative features and documentaries to short subject works. For more info and screening times visit www.marietta-film-festival.org.
We believe in face-to-face not cyberspace.
Utilizing our firm for tax, accounting and financial planning means we can better assist you in reaching your financial goals
770-640-5042 555 Sun Valley Drive, Suite E-2, Roswell, GA 30076
www.bowencpa.net
Full Service CPA & Financial Planning
• Financial Planning
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• Monthly Accounting
• New Business Start up • Non-profit assistance
4 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
Currentchoices Heritage Day >>YEA HERITAGE!
>>WILL THAT HEAL?
Celebrations
Throughout May
>>THIS GUY IS AVERAGE
>THE HOOCH SINGS
Bluesman Joe Johnson
Rhythms on the River Concerts
May 24
“Semi-Average” Joe Johnson is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born and raised in Mississippi. He’s spent much of his life rambling about, seeking beauty in life and music, collecting May is National Historic and musical styles from New Orleans to sounds Preservation Month and Roswell Memphis. From early beginnings in bluegrass and will celebrate with Heritage Days in classical music Joe has developed a unique sound May with a month-long event Stitched Up aims to that is strangely familiar. He is an accomplished capture people in the series. artist having performed in churches, theaters, and “Heritage Days in May is a great United States and barrooms spanning genres from classical to around the world, opportunity to showcase the wide musical theatre to down-home blues. His musical who have physical variety of events in our City,” said range spans from folk to country and back again scars, with the hope Morgan Rodgers, Roswell’s with no question that he was touched by the that these images will Recreation, Parks, Historic and graceful hand of the blues. You can catch Johnson capture not only the Cultural Affairs Director. “We will is concert at the Velvet Note in Alpharetta. For strength, but also the beauty of their scars. Barry tickets and more info visit www.thevelvetnote.com. feature over 34 different events Brandon, a photographer, event-producer, creative during the month that highlight the director, and an 8-time open-heart surgery survivor, history and culture of Roswell.” opens a one-night only pop-up showcase of his newly There will be events, concerts and conceived project. The models that will be showcased at this event are local to Atlanta, and each have triumphed activities throughout the month of May highlighted by a Mother’s Day over various circumstances— most have endured at open house with free admission at least one open-heart surgery that left them with physical scars. the Southern Trilogy Homes and a “Works in Clay Show and Sale at Art This event is being held at Muse & Co. Fine Art at 27 Oak Street in Roswell on May 9 from 7p.m. to Midnight. Center West. For more info and a listing of all events please visit For more information about Stitched Up: The Collection visit: www.stitchedupthecollection.com. www.heritagedaysinmay.com.
Stitched Up: The Collection
May 9
May 24 This is a new partnership with Atlanta Plays It Forward and the Chattahoochee Nature Center that kicked off in April and will continue through the summer. Lynn McIntyre, Senior Director of the Chattahoochee Nature Center, said, “We look forward to this new concert series to provide a new musical venue for North Fulton and East Cobb residents looking for culture and a place to enjoy an evening out in nature. Each month a different local charity will be benefitted with proceeds from this concert series.” The CNC will have beer and wine on sale to go with any food you would like to bring. They have plenty of picnic tables and chairs at the Ben Brady lakeside Pavilion located inside the CNC. The May concert features Satin Alley Jazz on May 24th. www.atlantaplaysitforward.org.
5 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
LIKE YOUR BOURBON DIRTY?
vaudeville. We change tempo, key, styles —it all unfolds like a story.” The Dirty Bourbon River Show is touring as part of the band’s national tour to support the recently released album Important Things Humans Should Know. On their new effort the group collaborated for the first time with an outside producer, Craig Schumacher, who has worked with numerous artists. Their albums and live shows pair exuberant, syncopated lyrics with complex, harmony-rich songwriting and orchestration. They switch instruments mid-show, sometimes even mid-song, they all sing, and they all have a By Tripp Liles penchant for theatrics that includes: The Roswell LIVE! Series continues in fireballs, group chants and stomps, May as The Dirty Bourbon River Show whiskey pours—whatever the spills onto the stage May 9 at the imagination calls for. Bottom line is Roswell Cultural Arts Center. These these guys not only rock but they’re nuts guys, from New Orleans, had their first as well… definitely want to leave the gig back in 2009 at an open mic night kids home for this one. and have not looked back. They promise The members, most of whom a wild night of enjoyment. attended college together, describe their “It’s like Shostakovich meets Entry of sound as “New Orleans gypsy brass the Gladiators,” bandleader Noah circus rock.” Now let that soak in. They Adams declares. “There’s a ringmaster, also feature worldly elements, including and very physical performances. There Latin and Eastern European notes, are kinds of vignettes you used to find in along with some African rhythms,
The Dirty Bourbon River Show brings “New Orleans Gypsy Circus Rock” to Roswell Cultural Arts Center
“It’s like Shostakovich meets Entry of the Gladiators” rhumba beats, and other basic ingredients that feature in New Orleans music. If you haven’t been to a concert at the Cultural Arts Center you’re really missing out. It is a great time and in this instance, it is a show not to be missed. Tickets for the show are available at www.roswellcac.com with special
discounts for students and seniors. Each event starts at 8:00 p.m., runs approximately 90 minutes, and features a full cash bar in the lobby one hour prior to show time. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. The Roswell Cultural Arts Center is located at 950 Forrest Street in… you guessed, it Roswell. ❍
ENTERTAINMENT (
6 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
BACKYARD ADVENTURES AND SOUTHERN LIVING From Rockin’ Circus Rock To Solemn Memorial Day Reflections May Has It All By Jessica Diamond If there is a lovelier time than May in Georgia, I’ve yet to hear about it. Nice weather, sunshine, the end of school and a barrage of bright spring colors are the perfect antidote to any lingering traces of cold winter blues. This is the perfect time of year to get off your couch and out into the flurry of activity happening just on the other side of your driveway. With so much going on, this is no time to let the pollen keep you chained to your tissues. Pop a Claritin, say a prayer and make your way to one or more of these concerts, festivals, mother’s day activities and street parties. It’s a good time to be in the South! Every year, I have vivid dreams about the baklava sundaes at the Marietta Greek Festival. Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church is once again bringing us a taste of the old country right here
in metro Atlanta. For one weekend only, Greece is a short car ride away, complete with delicious food, exotic shopping and some of the best dance moves this side of the pond. As the father says in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, “There are two kinds of people— Greeks, and everyone else who wish they was Greek.” Be a Greek for a day and hit the dance floor. You’ll be balancing ouzo on your head before you can say opa! Join in on May 15-17 and be ready for one serious party. Here’s an interesting idea for Mother’s Day weekend. The 24th Annual Cherokee County Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow offers families the chance to break from routines and learn about the ancient native cultures of the land on which we are living. On May 11 and 12, experience native dancing, singing and drumming while
24th Annual Cherokee County Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow
learning new crafts and sampling native cuisine. Explore a living tipi village and meet a traditional warrior on horseback. Learn primitive skills and listen to native storytellers recount tales only heard by the privileged few. It’s a perfect outing for the whole family and a chance to celebrate the mothers
7 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
Marietta Greek Festival at Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church
in your life while learning about mothers in other cultures. On May 9, the fourth annual LIVE! In Roswell Series is bringing you a musical performance unlike anything you’ve ever seen or heard. The Dirty Bourbon River Show travels the country with their original concept of “New Orleans Gypsy Brass Circus Rock.” The sound is otherworldly with a distinct southern backwater jazz that leaves you hypnotized and wanting more. It’s a new kind of show, but you’ll feel that there is something very old and familiar about it. It’s imagination come to life! You’ll want to get your tickets before they’re gone. The show kicks off at 8 p.m. at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center and is recommended for mature audiences. Want to know more? See page 5. Beer festivals are pretty easy to come by these days. Craft beers are in demand and enthusiasts are always ready for a reason to party. What if you could sip a foamy pint with 1,400 of the worlds most exotic and exciting animals and raise money for a good cause while you’re at it? The Atlanta Zoo’s annual fundraiser, Brew at the Zoo (and Wine, too!) can offer this and more. Enjoy live entertainment by headliner Electric Avenue, followed by Destitute Way, DJ Sky, Little Country Giants and The Georgia Flood. Better still, let your childlike excitement for zoo animals and craft beer carry you to the play area, featuring a video game truck, ping pong, inflatable ski ball, corn hole, giant Jenga and more. This festival is what we dreamed of as kids visiting the zoo. Saturday, May 23, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. VIP ticket holders will be privy to an exclusive animal experience 4:30 – 6 p.m. See zooatlanta.org. Roswell Remembers is the largest Memorial Day celebration in the state of Georgia. What started, as a small band of patriotic citizens in 1997 became a massive event drawing crowds from all over the southeast to honor our nation’s veterans. It is estimated that between 6,000 and 7,000 people attend the ceremony each year, and the numbers continue to grow. The featured speaker this year will be Christina Olds, daughter of legendary fighter pilot Robin Olds. The end of the program always includes a time called Reflections in which veterans are free to speak to the crowd and share their wisdom. This is a wonderfully unifying event that reminds us how thankful we are to our nations warriors for their dedication and sacrifice. On May 25, come gather on the lawn of City Hall for an emotional experience unlike any other. Celebrate your mothers, thank your veterans, meet your neighbors and try something different. Even if people are watching, dance your butt off. Even if you’re not sure what it’s made of, sample some new food. Even if you think you can’t, do whatever it is that sounds to you like a great adventure. Living in a place like this, adventure is always just a short skip and a jump away. As always bookmark our site, www.thecurrenhub.com, and keep up with events and community activities all month long. ❍
ENTERTAINMENT (
8 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
GET ANNOUNCES 23RD SEASON By Tripp Liles The Georgia Ensemble Theatre is the area’s largest professional theatre and the recently announced new season will be filled with a wide array of shows, starting this autumn. Their theme for the season is “See What’s Possible” and is demonstrated by the breadth of offerings. They have been selected to produce two popular titles recently produced in New York and London, as well as their first Shakespeare production. In addition, there will be an interactive Beatles experience, bringing music into the mix of offerings. Music will also be added into GET’s successful Theatre for Young Audience programming, which will feature a commissioned world premiere production from an awardwinning Atlanta playwright. Artistic Director Robert J. Farley says about this season announcement, “We invite everyone to join us during GET’s 20152016 season to experience what’s possible in a theatre as we embark on a series of shows that appeals to the widest scope of generations we have ever attracted. Not only that, but with three of our five shows, you can only see them here first at Georgia Ensemble Theatre. Nowhere else in Georgia. Now, that’s exciting!”
by William Shakespeare | Nov. 5- 22 The greatest love story ever told, filled with moonlight, swordplay, jealousy, poison, intrigue, and romance. But do you need to be told what this is about? CHARLEY’S AUNT Comedy by Brandon Thomas | Jan. 7 -24, This is a hilarious comic farce that features cross-dressing. Jack loves Kitty, and Charley loves Amy. But things are about to get complicated, and it requires a young fellow donning bloomers and a corset.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER Adventure by Rick Elice | Feb. 25 – Mar. 13, 2016 A grownup’s prequel to Peter Pan based on the New York Times bestselling novel Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
YESTERDAY AND TODAY, THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE Music Piece
conceived and performed by Billy McGuigan and his brothers | Apr. 72015-16 Highlights: 24, 2016 CALENDAR GIRLS Comedy by This show takes the Beatles’ incredTim Firth | Sept. 10 – Oct. 4 ible music and personalizes it with The fastest selling play in British the stories and perspectives of history now comes to Roswell. GET audience members. was the first American company to be Georgia Ensemble Theatre is granted the rights to this exciting pro- based in the Roswell Cultural Arts duction. The title will only be Center in historic Roswell, located at available to the regional U.S. for two 950 Forrest Street, Roswell, GA years. 30075. For more info visit ROMEO AND JULIET Drama www.get.org. ❍
LIFE
MAKING FINANCIAL FEES TRANSPARENT By Robert Fezza and Steve Siders As consumers we face a multitude of ways we can purchase products and services. Buying shampoo? Easy. What about your last car purchase? A little more complicated, right? You probably talked to some friends, took a test drive and of course looked to see what the web had to say. Most of us feel anxious due to complicated pricing schemes and the likely back-and-forth price negotiation. This all leads us to wonder if we got a good deal. We are aware that some consumers have similar experiences within the financial services industry. They may feel they were led through a lengthy, confusing process and/or that they bought investment products with costs that were unclear (or not fully
disclosed). Bottom line, they had an undesirable experience. There are many different ways the industry charges fees, so as a result consumers have a very difficult time comparing “brands” doing their own cost/benefit analysis, as an apples-toapples comparison is often a challenge. But what we find most disconcerting is that some “professionals” in the industry do not fully divulge their compensation. As a result, consumers are often distrustful. We blame the industry. Unless an advisor holds their client’s interests out to be of greatest importance (this is called a fiduciary responsibility) the client is at risk. There is a debate taking place in Washington, D.C. on this topic right now, and we believe the conclusion is quite simple. An advisor
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who are serious about making progress towards their financial goals. Odyssey manages portfolios greater than $500,000. 770-992-4444, www.odysseypfa.com. Securities offered through Cetera Financial Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.
Robert Fezza and Steve Siders, of Odyssey Personal Financial Advisors
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT MONEY
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should always serve their client’s interests first. It really is that simple. In addition, an honest and forthright financial advisor should always serve their clients with total transparency. They should disclose all costs a client may incur along with any potential conflicts of interest prior to entering into a professional relationship. You deserve total transparency in each and every advisory relationship you have. If you don’t know what fees or commissions you are paying, just ask. A reputable institution or advisor should be happy to provide you a prompt, clear, and complete explanation, including all the internal expenses for mutual funds and other investments. You deserve full transparency when it comes to how much you pay for the products and advice you receive from an advisor. It is the only way you’ll ever know if you are receiving a good value, so that you’ll choose to maintain a trusting, long term relationship. ❍ Robert Fezza, CFP® and Steve Siders, CFP® are owners of Odyssey Personal Financial Advisors, 500 Sun Valley Drive, Suite A-6, Roswell, GA. Their firm specializes in working with people
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A RETURN TO RETRO Scott Antique Market offers a world of opportunity
By Lori Nelson I know. I know. Atlanta boasts so much to do, everything requires travel on the dreaded interstates, too many choices, antique stores and malls are everywhere, etc. But designers and decorators use the Scott Antique Market for their one-of-a-kind finds, and dealers fly from Europe just to peruse the thousands of dealer booths where they can actually discuss purchases with the owners themselves. At the Scott Antique Market, you meet the dealers. Learn. Savor. Wander. If you can think of an item, it’s there—somewhere. They feature over 3500 dealers and two brightly lit, climate controlled buildings, with free bus service between them. Also, a surprisingly interesting outdoor area where I found architectural items I had never seen before, except in movies. Investment quality antiques, furniture from every era and for every style, so much to see and do, one cannot possibly take it all in during one day. All dealers are qualified and vetted by the administration. Trustworthy and knowledgeable, many of them travel the world to select the best goods for sale. Although the trends gear towards younger people nowadays, one can still easily add to an ongoing collection or build family heirlooms with treasured surprises. Now, personally, I’m into jewelry,
and the Scott Antique Market manages to be the biggest, best jewelry mecca, with the most coveted costume pieces, designer choices, diamond dealers and more! Lest I forget to eat, the food choices surround the shopping areas. After all the great exercise and walking, you’ll be hungry and the food is delicious. I’m confident the best milkshake ever is to be found only at the Scott Show, blended with homemade custard instead of ordinary ice cream. Or maybe you’d rather have Greek food, Italian sausage, a hot dog, pretzel, breakfast, super sized slices of homemade cake? It’s all there and much more. Delicious! Look, I confess to being a bit surprised. I thought it would be the same old show from years ago. I admit it. I was wrong. If you haven’t been to the Scott Antique Market, you are in for numerous new dealers, a glorious display of goods, great food, fantastic finds, and lots of learning experiences interacting with enlightened dealers. Quality attracts quality. The Scott Show outlasted all the other shows and has extraordinary offerings for almost 30 years. You’ll be amazed. ❍
Scott Antique Market is conveniently located directly off the interstate, only 3 miles east of Atlanta Airport, I-285 at Exit 55 at 3650 Jonesboro Road Southeast in Atlanta. Call 740-569-2800 for more info.
11 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
HOME
Businessreport presented by Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce
WE ARE GREATER TOGETHER
>>BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
The Greater North Fulton Chamber Of Commerce is more than just business. They take their role as community leaders very seriously.
Meet Owners Laura & Shawn
A big key factor in the local economic rebound has been new businesses relocating to this area. An important factor in a decision for corporations to relocate, is the quality of life in the area and the GNFCC is the leader in making our community an excellent place to work, live, play or stay. Their slogan “WE’RE GREATER TOGETHER” has never been more true as they provide one voice for all local businesses to have a positive influence in making North Fulton a great place to live.
Shawn is an active member of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and former Board member of the Cumming Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Forsyth County Disaster Response Team and a Certified Law Enforcement Officer. Shawn handles sales, warehouse and customer service, Laura manages the North Georgia Promotions office, their family home and 2 children. They are also very active in the Partners in Education programs with Fulton and Forsyth county schools. Laura and Shawn’s mission is to provide quality products at affordable prices, and in a timely manner. Some of the products they produce include:
As a non-profit business advocacy and community development organization the GNFCC is not financed by any government entity, unlike some business alliances, but rather it is member supported with 3 primary objectives: 1. To promote and advance the economic and social welfare of the local community. 2. To encourage growth of existing business while giving proper assistance to new companies looking to relocate. 3. To support activities beneficial to the community and oppose those that might be detrimental. The area of North Fulton County offers an exciting mix of positive development, thriving commerce and superb amenities, while not forgetting our historic charm and gentle living environment. Education is also a key ingredient to the successful formula and we have some of the best schools in the state in North Fulton. From kindergarten and beyond our public schools consistently earn high marks not to mention the fact that the GA400 corridor is consistently referred to as the “Technology Corridor.” Companies, taking full advantage of these wonderful offerings, are springing up at an unprecedented rate, which demonstrates our reputation as the region’s epicenter of economic growth and social vigor. Larger corporations spur much of this growth on, but the GNFCC is more than big business. With over half of its membership consisting of businesses with 20 or less people, the GNFCC fully recognizes the importance of small business. In the U.S., small businesses employ half of all private sector jobs and provide over 50% of net new jobs annually with a GDP of roughly $6 trillion. With its strong organizational leadership position the GNFCC provides its smaller members with the ability to sustain an important voice in the business conversation. So whether a business is multi-national, or owned by your neighbor, the GNFCC is here to be a positive voice for business and the community. To find out how you can become involved please visit their website at www.gnfcc.com.
North Georgia Promotions
• Embroidery • Screen Printing • Discharge Screen Printing • Direct To Garment • Banners & Signs • Rhinestone Bling • Business Cards, Flyers & Postcards • Promotional Products
North Georgia Promotions 4040 Nine McFarland Drive, Ste. 1200, Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-710-0467 sales@NGApromotions.com www.NGApromotions.com
Stop by North Georgia Promotions to see their extensive showroom or give them a call about any of your promotional needs.
GNFCC Calendar Highlights Women in Business Awards Luncheon Wednesday, May 6th at 11:30am – 1:30pm at The Atlanta Athletic Club The luncheon features Henna Inam, CEO of Transformational Leadership, Inc. Henna is a passionate advocate of women in leadership and author of the upcoming book Wired for Authenticity. Contact Deborah Lanham for more info dlanham@gnfcc.com or call 678-397-0567.
Eggs & Enterprise Wednesday, May 27 at 7:30 – 9:00am at King’s Ridge Christian School This event will feature John Smoltz a Baseball Hall of Famer and Founding Board Member of King’s Ridge Christian School. Winners of the 2015 Partner in Education Partnership of the Year Award will be announced at this event. Register online www.GNFCC.com/events. For more information on other great events visit www.gnfcc.com.
We’re Greater Together! WWW.GNFCC.COM
770 -993 -8806
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A SPRING CERAMIC CELEBRATION Works In Clay Spring Show and Sale is May 14 through 17. By Tripp Liles
Ceramics is one of the oldest forms of art known to humans. Once we discovered that clay could be formed into objects by mixing clay then firing it, a new industry was born. We know as early as 24,000 BC, animal and human figures were made from clay and other materials, and then fired in holes dug partially into the ground. On and on throughout history, civilizations have used this functional art form. Pottery pieces manufactured thousands of years ago in Mesopotamia and India were the first known uses of pottery for storing water and food. The use of colored glaze came about around 8,000 BC when glass was discovered. Fast-forward to today, we still use ceramics and you can get a close-up look at how they come together at Roswell Art Center West. The ceramics program there has seen tremendous growth over the past few years. In conjunction with the Roswell Clay Collective, which is a group of volunteer students and professional artists, they offer a broad range of year-round classes conducted by visiting and resident artists for all levels of expertise. Their overall mission is to foster and promote ceramic arts, and the center itself, through a variety of activities and unique shows. The Art Center West studio is located in west Roswell on Hwy. 92; it is a gem of a place that you must go see for yourself. In May you will have a perfect opportunity, as they will feature their Works In Clay Studio Show and Sale featuring some of the best handmade ceramic art around. This event, held May 15-17, will feature work by more than 40 members of the Roswell Clay Collective demonstrating functional,
Piece by local artist Anne Ginkel sculptural, and whimsical forms. These pieces are smart and unique gift ideas as well and for serious collectors. The show has an opening reception on May 14 from 7 to 9pm that is free and will include a variety of homemade refreshments. It will continue through the weekend with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The center is located at 1355 Woodstock Road in Roswell. Greeters are available each day to answer questions and give tours to anyone looking to explore this ancient artform. Call 770-641-3990 or see www.RoswellClayCollective.com. ❍
13 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
ARTS
14 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
LIFE
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FREE TO BE YOU AND ME Please write a subhead to fill space on this article By Di Chapman
It’s a Saturday morning and my husband’s out of town. I’m hanging out in my pj’s later than usual, sipping coffee and downloading songs onto my iPad. Okay, truth be told, I’m hanging out in my pj’s much later, well into early afternoon, an indulgent change from “normal” in our home. I’m by no stretch of the imagination a morning person, and God bless him, one major change my husband made after we married was to not get bent out of shape when I didn’t do what he and his family had always done: blow reveille every morning by 6 a.m., shower, dress and report for breakfast by 6:30. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I’d plunge a knife into my chest before I’d join them. As a matter of fact, I’m sure I couldn’t even pull it off.
“The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.”
So, I now meet him halfway. I don’t join him for an early breakfast, but I do Joseph Campbell join him for lunch, after I hang out enough in pajamas to wake up while sucking down coffee. Now, with that bit of background, you understand the luxurious nature of staying in my pajamas beyond noon. It’s something that my husband, God love him, would never do. To be honest, it’s something I very rarely do, but I’d had a long week and needed to chill. As I downloaded songs and listened to each, mostly dance tunes, it wasn’t long before I couldn’t contain myself. I began to sing along like, well, nobody who can sing. But who cares? Then I began to slide across the wooden floors to do my best rendition of the “karaoke dance” performed by Tom Cruise in Risky Business. I wear socks with my pj’s, so it didn’t take much to get me slippin’ and slidin’ across the floor throughout the house. I especially like to mimic the move where he picks up velocity to careen across the floor sideways and comes to an abrupt stop to sing. No, I wasn’t in underwear, but I was in boxer shorts, my favorite pj attire. Those same socks gave me the ability to “moon walk” in my kitchen just like Michael Jackson while I sang along to Bruno Mars et al in “Uptown Funk.” I may be a tall lanky girl from the land of the midnight sun, but I like to think I can get down. It was a gas that afternoon, reporting to no one, singing badly at the top of my lungs, and pretending I could dance. It was completely and thoroughly who I am. It was the “me” that my colleagues, clients, neighbors, and some friends don’t even see: a gregarious,
15
“Your time is limited so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your inner voice.” Steve Jobs
You know what I’m talking about. We’ve all been through so much of life’s experiences that it’s difficult to remind ourselves of who we were before “life” interfered, before financial responsibilities loomed large, and child-rearing made us serious people. Before we were locked in our boxes. Where is that woman who was always the life of the party? Where is that guy who always flashed the biggest smile in the room? Where’s that couple who were always the first ones to lead the road trip? Ladies and gentlemen, if those folks were you, where’d you go? Get back here! Suze Orman said recently, “In my 60s, I learned that true success is being able to define yourself simply by who you are and not what you do or what you have.” There’s no time like the present to unleash, once again, who you are, and to celebrate how great it feels. Perhaps your celebration of who
you truly are is to do the “Uma Thurman” from Pulp Fiction, the “John Travolta” from Saturday Night Fever, the “Jennifer Grey” from Dirty Dancing, or the “Paul Mercurio” from Strictly Ballroom. (Which by the way, is a seriously campy must-see “B” movie from 1992.) Of course, you could always unleash your inner Elvis from Viva Las Vegas. Set that hip action in motion in front of an audience, or your family, or by yourself. Then go forth, being who you are, and loving it. ❍
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
fearless, impromptu-loving, slightlyoff kilter, certainly nuts, but always interesting woman. (I hope!) It’s the “me” that doesn’t get to be incorporated into the business documents and blogs I write; the “me” creditors will never know, and bankers don’t expect. But I sure as heck know it is definitely me. One Steve Jobs quote I love goes, “Your time is limited so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your inner voice.” I saw a gag gift several years ago that makes me laugh even now. It was a closed plastic box, probably four inches square, with a button on it. Press the button and you’d hear a “knock, knock, knocking” sound and then, “Excuse me! Excuse me! Will somebody let me out of here?” Personally, I’ve tried my best time and again to dismantle at least one side of my metaphorical box, to poke my head out and dash.
16 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
LIFE
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DEAR DI
Of Restrooms And Manners By Di Chapman
“Do women appreciate men with old-style manners? And what’s up with their group mentality in going to restrooms?” Thank you, David of Roswell! He says he’s a regular reader, and has some questions he would love to ask women. I squeal with happiness when a man a) tells me he’s a reader, and b) has questions I can answer in this column. Dude, let’s do it. David asked me several questions, answer your question, and tell you so I’ll divide them up amongst a few why it relates to manners. When columns. I paired these two questions women talk in the restroom, a because they make sense together. favorite topic is men. (Nah, really?) You’ll see how. Here’s a typical conversation: David, I assume the manners “Did you notice that guy who you’re talking about are the respectful almost slammed the door in my gestures some men do for women, face?” like opening doors for us, seating us, “I did! There are so many men putting coats over our shoulders without manners these days.” when it’s cold, paying “I know! for dinner, and the Remember granddaddy of them when men all: asking fathers for opened doors for our hands in us?” marriage. “Yes! Do you Do we appreciate know there was men with “old-style” a UPS guy who manners? opened the door YES! We LOVE for me at the them! You guys are HOT. Whether dentist’s office? I thanked him, and we’re dating or taken, we feel like he said, ‘My pleasure.’ I almost princesses when a man demonstrates swooned and asked if he was single.” respectful gestures. We’re looking for “I’m dating a guy who has terrible Prince Charming. Ever wonder why manners. He’s drop-dead gorgeous, we love shopping for shoes? Those though.” salesmen go down on one knee and “I dated some gorgeous guys and gently slip our tootsies into the glass even got engaged to a few....” slipper, baby. Those are manners. Men and manners are a huge topic I chose as your second question the of endless discussion, woven into one about women and restrooms. other huge topics that shall wait for Guys, I know this will be too much inanother formation, but here’s what goes on in column. the ladies’ room. Brace yourselves. So, David, First, the wait for a stall is long. now you know Why? Because women bring along all the answer to their children to potty, and the line your “manners” backs up as one by one the kids do question. It’s their thing. Oftentimes, the whole one part of you family is in one stall. I have no idea that truly how they do this. In line, we talk nonmakes us stop to whomever is standing next to happy. Bring it us, whether we know them or not. on, gentlemen. We want to give you With girlfriends, we’ve already kudos in the restroom! ❍ started the talkfest as we walk to the Do you have a dating question for restroom. Di? Send it to her at Now, here’s the good part that will diychapman@iCloud.com
“… go down on one knee and gently slip our tootsies into the glass slipper, baby.”
Welcomes the Highly Anticipated 2016 XC90
“W
Avoiding collisions at intersections The XC90 is the first car in the world with technology that features automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming car. This is a common scenario at city crossings as well as on highways. The 2016 Volvo XC90 detects a potential crash and brakes automatically in order to avoid a collision or mitigate the consequences of a crash. T6 Drive-E Powertrain The focus of the all-new Volvo XC90’s powertrain is an uncompromising blend of lightweight design, high horsepower performance, and class leading fuel efficiency unrivaled by any competitor. At the heart of this strategy is our range of aluminum, fourcylinder engines that actually puts XC90 performance squarely in the lead. The benefit—an exhilarating driving experience delivered with lower fuel consumption and emissions. Power development occurs via supercharger for superb low-rev power delivery and throttle response, and a turbocharger that keeps the engine punching hard at higher revs. All this technology allows the XC90 to develop 316 HP and 295 lb/ft. of torque between 1800rpm and 5500rpm.
AWD—Haldex 5th generation The XC90 will feature a very efficient type of all-wheel drive system. A compact and lightweight coupling (Haldex) distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels. Under normal, dry conditions practically all of the power is distributed to the front wheels for optimal fuel efficiency. The system constantly calculates the need for power to the rear wheels and can instantly redistribute up to 50% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. When at a standstill, full all-wheel drive is always engaged to prepare for maximum traction during accelerations. It also features five Drive Mode settings. They allow the driver to choose different settings for the engine including the supercharger, via an elegant rotary knob in the center console. The driver can personalize their car and always enjoy the driving characteristics which they prefer. Make plans to test drive the All-New 2016 XC90 at North Point Volvo before you make any decision on the next luxury SUV you want to own. You will definitely be surprised and impressed with the newest offering from the iconic Swedish automaker.
North Point Volvo — 1570 Mansell Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 — Call Sales at 877- 562-5578 — northpointvolvo.com
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17 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
The All-New Volvo XC90 is the first Volvo to be built on the new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), the advanced modular platform that will underpin future Volvos. The car offers great proportions, with the front wheels pulled out towards the front, creating a long wheelbase and a stretched, powerful look. For the first time in 14 years, Volvo doesn’t have a partner in the development of a platform which means that the SPA platform is designed solely around Volvo’s requirements. The third row is often a place compromised in size and comfort in order to accommodate seven occupants in an SUV. With the XC90, our approach was to ensure a high level of comfort for these occupants—the two individual seats in the third row are generously proportioned for passengers up to 5' 7". The XC90 has an innovative center touchscreen display that removes the visual clutter of consoles and reduces physical buttons to less than ten. It will organize information intuitively so it’s at the driver’s fingertips on a display that eliminates the need for scrolling. Information can be controlled via touch, voice, or steering wheel controls to minimize distraction. The Volvo XC90 has one of the best audio systems in the market. It has been developed together with the renowned high-end audio manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins, a name which carries great authority in audio circles. They are the preferred audio equipment of the famed Abbey Road Studios. Premium Sound by Bowers & Wilkins delivers an astonishing 1400 watts to 19 speakers. Two World’s First Safety e are not just Innovations introduced launching a car Run-off Road Protection but relaunching our Half of all traffic fatalities in the brand,” says Hakan Samuelsson, presiUnited States are road departure dent and CEO of Volvo. The All-New accidents. Volvo Cars developed Safe Volvo XC90 embodies the Volvo spirit Positioning so that in a run-off road of automotive luxury with a confident scenario, the all-new Volvo XC90 elegant exterior, a first-class interior and a suite of groundbreaking innova- detects what is happening and the front safety belts are tightened to keep tions that will transform the way you the occupants in position. The belts are drive into a completely new experience. firmly tightened as long as the car is in Modern expressions of luxury such motion. To help prevent spine injuries, as gorgeous Nappa leather upholstery energy-absorbing material between the and handcrafted walnut wood inlays seat and seat frame cushions the vertiare complimented by a pure and cal forces that can arise when the car uncluttered button-free environment featuring an infotainment system with encounters a hard landing. The solution is capable of reducing the veran intuitive portrait 9-inch touch tical occupant forces by up to one third. screen.
18 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
THINGS ARE HEATING UP AT CHILL & BODY Things are starting to heat up at Chill & Body,
Customers Love How Chill & Body Fits Their Busy Schedules
the new whole body cryotherapy center in Downtown
Because the technology is so efficient, whole body cryotherapy provides treatment that fits into busy schedules. Each session requires no more than three minutes so that customers can get full benefits in an extremely short period of time. And for added convenience, Chill & Body has opened a second location at Lenox Square Mall inside The Forum Athletic Club.
Roswell. Since the grand opening in February, Chill & Body has seen a steady stream of customers using the treatment for a variety of reasons.
Beautify
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Cryotherapy techniques are being used throughout the beauty industry to address aging problems that used to require surgery. Whole body cryotherapy has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which rejuvenates aging skin and reduces cellulite. Each threeminute session consumes as many as 400 to 800 calories which can aid in weight loss when combined with a good diet and workout regimen.
temporarily lowers the skin’s top layer. The skin sends a signal to the brain, which stimulates physical reactions and activates naturally occurring healing resources.
Visit us at Alive After 5!
Recovery
Many Chill & Body customers come Pain Management in specifically for relief from They say with age comes experience. inflammation, muscle soreness and And with experience comes the aches joint pain following workouts. The and pains of everyday life. However, treatment reduces recovery time so relief is here in the form of whole that customers can work out more frebody cryotherapy. Chill & Body incorquently and feel significantly better porates the latest technologies in cold when they are done. therapy to help manage pain. When Also gaining popularity as both a customers step into the Chill & Body recovery and warm-up therapy is chamber, it fills with nitrogen vapor Chill & Body’s NormaTec Recovery which drops the temperature to a system which synergistically range of minus 110° C to -145° and
Visit Chill & Body, mention the Current Hub and Monday-Friday 9am–7pm get 2 Whole Body Saturday 10am–5pm Cryotherapy Sunday 12pm–5pm sessions for only
Chill And Body Cryotherapy In Historic Roswell
combines three distinctive massage techniques to speed the body’s normal recovery process. It also works as a high-tech massage that warms up muscles.❍
Phone: 678-820-7412 1137 Canton Street, Roswell www.chillandbody.com
$50!
To learn more about the benefits of whole body cryotherapy, call Chill & Body at 678-820-7412, visit either their Roswell or Atlanta location, or book an appointment online at chillandbody.com
health&wellness presented by North Fulton Hospital
North Fulton Hospital Celebrates
EARTH DAY
North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar April –May 2015 SUPPORT GROUPS
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
WomenHeart Support Group
Babysitting Workshop
Second Tuesday of every month, 7:00-8:30 p.m., Saturday 5/2, 5/30, and 7/18, 9 –2 p.m. Classroom C Sunday 6/21, 1–5:30 p.m. The National Coalition for Women with Heart Teaches children ages Disease brings support and education to women who 11 –14 how to be are at risk or who already have heart disease. For prepared and more information call Rebecca at 770 658-4796 or responsible send an email to WH-FultonCo@womenheart.org. babysitters. Bring a doll or stuffed animal Ostomy Support Group and a sack lunch and Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m., drink. $30 Classroom C. This group is open to anyone who has or will have an ostomy and any friends, family or American Heart Assoc. Heartsaver CPR* supporters. The meeting structure is informal with Saturday 5/9, 7/11 group discussion and guest speakers to be scheduled CPR course for the community. at various times throughout the year. Call John Dorso Adult and child CPR, 9 a.m. to noon; $35 at 678-694-8726 to register or to obtain more Adult, child and infant CPR, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $45 information; group usually does not meet in the Healthcare Provider CPR* summer. Saturday 6/20. 9 a.m. –1 p.m. CPR course for healthcare professionals. $55 Caring, Sharing, and Learning:
Breast Cancer Support Group Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6 p.m. Cope and connect with others who are facing the same struggles. Please call Micah Brown, RN, Oncology Service Manager, at 770-751-2556 for location and to register.
Look Good, Feel Better Wednesday 5/13 and 7/8 10 a.m. to noon A cosmetologist will discuss how to care for skin and hair to combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Free make-up and skin care products are provided. Call 1-800-227-2345 to register.
Epilepsy Support Group The third Wednesday of every month, 7–9 p.m. Classroom A/B People with epilepsy as well as their family and careproviders are invited to attend this support group. The meetings will provide time for attendees to share helpful information and resources from their own experiences. Educational presentations by professionals will sometimes be offered. Please contact Tim for more information at 770-667-9363.
Diabetes Self-Management Workshop Saturday 5/30, 6/20, and 7/25 The Diabetes Association of Atlanta (DAA) offers classes at NFH to teach diabetes self-management skills. Call Katie at 404-527-7180 for more information and to register.
Water Birth Thursday 5/7, 5/21, 6/4, 6/18, 7/2, 7/16, and 7/30 at 7:00 p.m. For couples desiring to learn about the option of a water birth delivery. Completion of the class is required to be considered for water birth at NFH. $30.00 per couple; registration required.
Maternity Tours Please join one of our Women’s Health nurses in the hospital atrium on alternating Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a guided tour of the Labor and Delivery suites, Mother/Baby Unit and the Neonatal ICU. The tour lasts approximately one hour.
Gamblers Anonymous Every Thursday, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 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.
Lupus Support Group On Wednesday, April 22 North Fulton held a celebration in honor of Earth Day. This fun and informative event included cooking demonstrations, education on ways the hospital is reducing their energy usage and “going green” as well as vendor booths from community businesses including Theo’s Brothers Bakery, Georgia Power, Wash Me Fast Car Wash Roswell, SteriCycle and Roswell Farmer’s Market. Employees were able to visit each exhibitor booth and learn more about ways to help the environment as well as sample tasty treats and get some cool goodies such as energy efficient light bulbs.
Third Saturday of every month, 11 a.m. –1 p.m. Classroom C. Informal meetings to share experiences and learn from others. Guest speakers occasionally present and we also participate in some Lupus Foundation of America events. Contact Julie for more info 404-626-2394, lupusgroup4roswell@gmail.com.
*AHA Disclaimer: The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in BLS, ACLS, and PALS and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the AHA, and any fees charged for such a course do not represent income to the Association.
Please call 770-751-2660 or visit www.nfultonhospital.com for more information, to register for classes, or to find a physician. Calendar continues on next page with Special Events
20 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
Save The Date: Monday, May 11 at 11:30 a.m. Join North Fulton Hospital for a lunch and learn as Dr. Robert Yarbrough helps explain the ins and outs of surgical joint procedures and joint replacements, specifically focusing on anterior hip joint replacement. RSVP, call 770-7512660 or www.nfultonhospital.com
North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar
Joints Seminar Lunch & Learn Monday 5/11 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m. Dr. Robert Yarbrough of Resurgens will discuss surgical joint options including anterior hip replacements. Call to register. Space is limited 770-751-2660.
Free CPR Training Saturday 6/6; 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Free CPR class for those who want to learn the basics of CPR but who do not need a certification. Obstructive airway will also be discussed. Registration is required.
LifeSouth Blood Drive Friday July 31 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. North Fulton Hospital Classrooms Give blood, and help save up to three lives with just one donation. LifeSouth is a community blood center, which means the blood collected in your community goes to local hospital patients. Please call 770-751-2660 or visit www.nfultonhospital.com for more information, to register for classes, or to find a physician.
HEALTH
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AMERICAN STROKE MONTH PROMPTS DISCUSSION Each year, May is designated as American Stroke Month. Why does stroke need its own month? Many people are already aware of stroke, and some know what signs to look for. But did you know that stroke is the leading cause of disability in the US, as well as the fifth leading cause of death? This month is a good opportunity to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of stroke so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones. We know much more about stroke today than we did even a decade ago. In the not so distant past, very little could be done and physicians would just have to wait until the stroke passed before assessing the damage. Physical and occupational therapy could potentially help the victim regain lost function, but much of the damage was permanent, or even fatal. New technologies allow physicians to intervene much earlier and more effectively, reducing these risks significantly. “Stroke care is evolving,” North Fulton Hospital’s Stroke Coordinator Edna Kennedy said. “There are so many changes right now with interventional treatment. The goal is to reduce, or even prevent disability. Every minute counts. Each minute that passes without intervention, the stroke victim loses 1.9 million neurons.” Certain symptoms are immediately recognizable as a possible stroke. The acronym FAST is a useful, easy to remember tool when identifying these symptoms. The first indicator is Face drooping, followed by Arm weakness and Speech difficulty. Once these symptoms begin to appear, it’s Time to call 911. These are the most common indicators, however they are not the only ways in which a stroke can present. Other potential symptoms include sudden headache, loss of coordination, dizziness, trouble seeing and numbness in isolated parts of the body. Should you experience any of these symptoms, or
see anyone else exhibiting these symptoms, it is imperative that you call 911 as quickly as possible. Once the first responders arrive, they will be able to swiftly transport the patient to the nearest certified primary stroke center, such as the one at North Fulton Hospital. As Stroke Coordinator, Kennedy spends her days ensuring that the North Fulton primary stroke center exceeds the necessary requirements to maintain its certification, as well as educating the hospital staff and community about recent changes and advancements in stroke care. “I make sure evidence based practices are being implemented with our patients,” Kennedy explained. “The care should align with the national standards of care. Also, we make sure all of those measures are taken in the clinical area and monitor them to provide data to the American Stroke Association, which becomes national data.” Though she has been a registered nurse for more than 35 years, Kennedy confesses that her passion lies in education, making this an ideal position for her. “I provide education through the continuum of care. We provide community education, we educate about early recognition of signs and symptoms and timely activation of the emergency response system. I provide initial and ongoing education to the staff and physicians to make sure those measures are implemented bedside.” Thanks to efforts such as these, North Fulton’s Primary Stroke Care Center is on the cutting edge of stroke care. Mortality and disability rates have taken a nose dive in this area, dropping stroke from the fourth leading cause of death to the fifth. “Care has definitely changed for the better,” Kennedy said proudly. “We’re really making headway.”❍
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Dr. Michael Lipscomb is not your average emergency medicine physician. From one day to the next, Dr. Lipscomb dons many different hats—ranging from the the night shift ER doc to the Chief of Staff to the Regional President for multiple Tenet programs throughout the Southeast and more. Though he has passion for his profession and carries an impressive amount of responsibility, Dr. Lipscomb knows how important it is to make time for fun and relaxation. That is, when he’s not dashing off to meet a trauma case.
Q
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
ANSWER I was born in New Orleans, but I grew up in Dallas and lived there through high school. Both of my parents were doctors. My mother was a pathologist who worked at the Medical School in Dallas. My dad was a cardiologist in private practice.
Q
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO GO INTO MEDICINE?
ANSWER After graduating from the University of Texas in Electrical Engineering, I worked at Texas Instruments for a few months as an engineer. It involved a lot of working in cubicles by myself, not seeing people. I wanted a bit more day-to-day interaction. After four years of college in engineering, it only took a few months in the real world of engineering to realize it wasn’t what I
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
Q A with Dr. Michael Lipscomb wanted to do. My parents were doctors, and they had interactions with people every day, and Medical School seemed like a pretty good deal. While in Medical School, I got into the ER and I loved it.
Q
WHY EMERGENCY MEDICINE?
ANSWER I think it was because I didn’t like doing the same thing every day which gets a bit boring. In Emergency Medicine, you get to see some of everything. You deal with trauma, heart attacks, everything that comes along. There’s no one looking over your shoulder when these patients come in to the hospital. While there is backup available, for almost all patients, it’s just you, facing all comers. You need to be prepared for just about anything, and having an answer or a way to solve any problem.
Q
WHERE DID YOU BEGIN PRACTICING MEDICINE AND HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK AT NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL?
ANSWER After Medical School in Dallas, I went to the University of Michigan for my three year residency in Emergency Medicine. I worked in one of their community hospitals near Ann Arbor where we saw a lot of trauma (a lot of farming accidents in addition to car accidents off the interstate), and other rather sick patients. It was a busy ER, and quite a great place to work immediately out of training. Eventually, my wife said, “It’s
too cold and too dark in the winter. We need to move south.” My brother-inlaw and his wife lived in Alpharetta at the time, and got me in touch with the right people at North Fulton Hospital back in 2000, where I have been ever since. Well, I did work in North Carolina for six months, but that was a really bad decision, and I turned around and came right back to North Fulton.
Q
WHAT SORT OF RESPONSIBILITIES DOES YOUR JOB ENTAIL?
ANSWER Now, I wear several different hats. In addition to my role as an ED physician and Chief of Staff, I also serve an administrative role for multiple departments. Several years ago, my ED group, ApolloMD, asked me to serve as a regional president, essentially the “boss” of the medical directors for 9 EDs and 5 Hospital Medicine programs. These programs YOU ARE CURRENTLY CHIEF OF are all in the Southern Region for STAFF AT NORTH FULTON Tenet, the parent company for North HOSPITAL. WHAT LED TO THIS, AND Fulton Hospital. This opportunity WHAT ABOUT IT APPEALED TO YOU? coincided with the decision to become ANSWER I became Chief of Staff a few Chief of Staff, which loaded up my years ago. I have always been involved schedule in a hurry. with committees and leadership at the Currently, I work in the ER a few hospital, and always liked keeping my days a month and I’m pretty much hand in “administrative stuff.” In 2005, always on call. Not the way you would I became Medical Director of the ED. think, however. ER is shift work, with Several years ago, I was asked to serve essentially no call. The on call comes on the leadership of the Medical Staff. with the Chief of Staff and Regional It’s normally a six-year track, with the President positions. In both of these last 2 years being Chief of Staff, but the roles, I work with physicians, making track worked out to 4 years total in my sure the staff is operating at top quality. case. That’s just how it worked out. I have learned a lot about all the other departments in the hospital and how Continues on p22
Q
22 Dr. Lipscomb, continued from page 21 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
recognize the emergency. The public doesn’t have the same heightened awareness as they do with trauma, heart attacks, or acute pain where they will come to the ED immediately. The sooner you come in after a stroke, the better the care will be and the less damage you will have. But, most don’t always see the symptoms as emergent. Any kind of speech trouble, MAY IS STROKE MONTH. IN YOUR OPINION, HOW weakness, trouble walking, loss of feeling on one side, HAS STROKE CARE CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? or facial droop, get to the ER as quickly as possible. ANSWER We do see a fair amount of stroke. We Better safe than sorry. Again, time is of the essence. have a very specific process. It used to be there WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST VALUABLE wasn’t much you could do, but now we have clot AN ER PHYSICIAN CAN HAVE? TRAIT busting medicines, interventional therapies, ANSWER Honestly, an empathetic, comforting bedexpedited care and many other options. It’s so imporside manner. People who come in are usually pretty tant to be on the ball and time is of the essence. The scared. In the first few moments, if you can make hurdle is not only our preparedness, but the patient someone feel more comfortable, then you’ve won themselves. With stroke, patients don’t always half the battle. You have to be quick and efficient, but realize what’s happening and they don’t immediately if they know you aren’t going to hurt them and they have confidence in you, then you will have more success. Also, it’s essential to have good organizational skills. You have to be able to constantly prioritize and re-prioritize as things change. From a physician standpoint, it can be the most challenging part of the job. It can’t always be taught. Things can turn on a dime.
they function. If everything is moving in a good direction, doctors are performing at a high level, everyone is staying in line with new policies, and those policies are being implemented properly, and meeting the proper standards, then that is a good day.
Q
Q
Q
IF YOU HADN’T GONE INTO MEDICINE, WHAT CAREER WOULD YOU HAVE PURSUED?
ANSWER I actually have a twin brother who sort of answered that for me. I was originally doing
microwave engineering, essentially building radar and missile systems. It just wasn’t a life goal or a passion and wasn’t fulfilling. My brother went into computer science, and he’s retired now! Of course, not every software engineer has a career like that, and he didn’t like the job. When his company became successful, he quit and become a math teacher. Working ER is hard, particularly working irregular hours, nights, or when you’re working on Christmas and you start to wonder. But, I really do love it. Most ER docs love it. You have to. The nice thing is that you work 14-16 days a month, and get the rest off. But you don’t necessarily get the days off that you want. There is a trade off. I’m more Monday through Friday now due to the administrative positions, but I work a lot more. I’m not sure which is better yet.
Q
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF THE HOSPITAL?
ANSWER I used to play a lot of tennis, Frisbee golf, running and biking. Additionally, photography is a passion. In the last two years, I’ve had less free time, and some of these have fallen by the wayside. It’s so important to carve out time for yourself and do things you enjoy, and I’m working on that. It’s not just about relaxing and doing nothing in your down time. You have to do tangible things for yourself or you won’t be happy. You can burn out if you’re not careful. ❍
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK
On Monday, April 13 North Fulton Hospital kicked off National Volunteer Week with a celebration luncheon honoring the many dedicated and selfless people who choose to devote their time and efforts to volunteering at the hospital. A delicious Italian feast was enjoyed by over 50 volunteers who attended the event and a great time was had by all. These volunteers are an invaluable resource for the hospital and all of their hard work is greatly appreciated. If you are interested in learning more about how you can give back and volunteer your time at North Fulton Hospital, visit our website for more information about the program. nfultonhospital.com/enUS/ourServices/communityServices/Pages/Volunteers.aspx
Lisa Perez, MD, shares reasons and a timely Mother’s Day offer from VeinInnovations. By David Martin, President and CEO of VeinInnovations
As Mother’s Day draws near—at the same time most people are looking to bring out their shorts and bathing suits—Dr. Lisa Perez, M.D. and vein care specialist at VeinInnovations, is sharing information on why pregnancy often wreaks havoc on veins, a timely two-for-one offer, and news of a new addition to the VeinInnovations family. According to Dr. Perez, several factors work together to increase the likelihood of varicose and spider veins forming during pregnancy. First, there is the increase of blood volume. “The body produces 40 to 50% more blood during pregnancy, which increases pressure on veins, increasing the likelihood of damage,” she explained. In the legs, the calf muscle helps push blood upward through veins, to the heart and lungs for reoxygenation. Delicate one-way valves, which normally keep blood from flowing backward, are much more likely to fail under this increased pressure. When valves fail, blood flows backward resulting in distended veins, spider veins, swelling, and oftentimes, pain and restlessness. “The other big factor contributing to spider veins and varicosities during pregnancy is the hormone progesterone. Among other important jobs, progesterone helps keep the placenta functioning properly. Along with another hormone, relaxin, progesterone makes ligaments and joints relax, which is crucial for childbirth. This progesterone and relaxin duo also causes other tissues, such as the veins and valves, to become more flaccid. This loosening makes it even more difficult for one-way valves to function properly, further increasing the likelihood of developing spider and varicose veins during pregnancy,” Dr. Perez said.
Vein Expert Lisa Perez, MD, of VeinInnovations, with one of her patients.
For some women, pregnancyinduced varicose and spider veins may disappear several months after childbirth. But for women who are predisposed to varicose veins due to heredity, lifestyle, or trauma to the legs, the spider and varicose veins may be a permanent consequence that will become worse with subsequent pregnancies and age. In the Atlanta area, there is good news for mothers-to-be, new moms, and anyone concerned about varicose or spider veins. VeinInnovations offers free ultrasound screenings to verify whether or not varicose and spider veins are the result of a medical condition known as chronic venous insufficiency, or are a cosmetic issue that can be treated with sclerotherapy. In celebration of VeinInnovations opening a third clinic in Midtown Atlanta in June, the company is offering two-for-one sclerotherapy treatments following a free ultrasound screening, on appointments scheduled by August 31, 2015. Check VeinInnovations at www.veininnovations.com for details, and to learn more about office-based, minimally invasive treatments that, when medically indicated, are likely to be covered by insurance. ❍
23 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
WHY THE SPIDER & VARICOSE VEINS IN PREGNANCY?
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EDUCATION
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
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THE ABCs OF STANDARDIZED TESTING Standardized tests important to student learning and curriculum development in Georgia
By Matthew W. Quinn
As the school year closes, students across the nation are administered standardized tests. In some states, like NY, parents this year started boycotts to push back against their perception that too much attention is paid to those testing results and not enough to actual classroom performance. Here in Georgia, standardized testing plays an important role in measuring student achievement in both Fulton County Schools (FCS) and the Cobb County School District (CCSD), though the results are not applied as stringently as in some states. States with boycotts of exams, like the one in NY, use the results of testing to adjust teacher pay and performance. The world of standardized testing is full of acronyms and is confusing to many parents, so here is our take on explaining how local schools use these tests. “We follow the state testing regimen, which includes Georgia Milestones, SLO [Student Learning Objectives], and we also have some national tests that a certain percentage of students take,� said FCS Executive Director of Accountability Clifford Jones, who served as principal of Milton High School from 2010 to 2014 before taking the
individual reports based on how students performed on different parts of the AP exams. Teachers and administrators will go over these reports to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many times principals of individual schools analyze testing data over the summer, to see if their local initiatives are working or if they need adjustment. FCS looks at the aggregate scores of schools to see if they’re on track. Jones said that student-testing data is not used to determine teachers’ salaries, nor is it used to determine school enrollment or whether certain schools stay open. The ideal is that 90 percent of high school students graduate in four years. Seeing if ninth graders are on track is particularly important. If a student isn’t doing well, there are different tiers of intervention. A Tier One intervention might involve a different seat in the classroom or the teacher making sure the student is taking notes, while a Tier Two intervention would involve meeting with parents and a Tier Three intervention might involve meeting with all of a student’s teachers. Dr. Ehsan Kattoula, Cobb County School District (CCSD) director of accountability and research, said the county gets most of its data from the Milestone test that all students take beginning in the third grade. Most schools give ninth grade students standardized tests in algebra, literature, and biology, and many schools give a standardized test on geometry in tenth grade. Eleventh grade students typically take tests on literature and U.S. History, while seniors take economics, the last Milestone test in high school. These tests determine the College Career Readiness Performance Index (CCRPI), which the state uses to hold individual schools accountable. The CCSD also administers the ITBS to third-, fifth-, and seventh-graders to Continues on page 32
25 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
county position. “In Fulton County we believe in a balanced assessment model.” The state’s Milestone exams take place at the end of course for high school students and at the end of the year for elementary and middle school students. The Georgia Department of Education website states the Milestones’ purpose is to test how well students have learned the “knowledge and skills” outlined in the state’s content standards for language arts, social studies, mathematics, and science. Jones explained the SLO examination system includes pre-testing to see what standards students already meet, formative exams —which can be as short as four or five questions to see if students meet their daily objectives—and summative testing to see if students have learned the material. As far as national tests are concerned, the FCS administers the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) to elementary and middle schoolers and the PSAT exam to ninth-, tenth-, and eleventh-graders. The SAT and ACT tests, used primarily for college entrance, are voluntary exams students sign up for on their own. Students seeking to exempt college courses can take Advanced Placement (AP) exams. “The overall assessment policy is that assessment should inform instruction,” Jones said. Schools receive Milestones data from the state and AP data from the College Board. The school systems use the data to measure if they meet or exceed the state’s standards. This is important in measuring individual students’ trajectories, to ascertain if they need extra help, and to see what courses they should take next. Testing data is used to determine if particular educational techniques such as Socratic seminars (which use open-ended questions for students) are effective. The College Board supplies teachers with
Drawn To Clay:
26 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
THE POTTERY OF ED GILLIAM
ARTS
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By Thomas E. Scanlin
In 1994, I attended the first show of Steve and Amy Slotin’s Folk Fest in Atlanta, Ga., in pursuit of good “Old Master” self-taught works of art. I had already collected this type of art for approximately 15 years and was hoping to find something really special at this show. As was my custom, I was determined to walk through all the booths before deciding on anything to purchase. About two-thirds of the way through I walked into the booth of a local shop, American Sampler, owned by Carrie Gilliam and her mother, Sandy. I was quickly scanning the interesting and well-stocked inventory and was about to move on when I noticed a small group of pottery almost hidden in the corner. I have never thought of myself as a pottery collector, but I had purchased a few unique pieces on occasion. I took a few steps closer, and then it came into focus—a pottery charger that would change my collecting life forever. I was
riveted, dumbstruck at the masterful handling of the sgraffito (Italian, “to scratch”) decoration that turned a plain, slightly oversize plate into a work of art. It was, in fact, a leaping warthog with a full moon behind it executed with the detail and finesse of a Durer etching. The only other decoration was a single line of text, “Welcome, but close the gate.” This annotation reminded me of the early (and therefore more restrained), Howard Finster work that has always fascinated me. To this day, “Welcome, but close the gate,” often runs through my head like a bit of Haiku. A mystery to be pondered and hopefully solved. On one level it speaks a great truth: You are welcome here, but just as we as hosts have a responsibility to you, you also have some responsibilities as a guest. Welcome, but close the gate. As I was standing in the booth, I noticed that everything around the charger had gone into a soft focus, like a romantic film scene with a beautiful 1940s movie star. As a collector I can say that this has happened a few times over the years when I have been confronted with life-changing art work. It was a sign, a gift from above. I seized the plate and held it like it was my first-born. I could not leave the booth without it. I asked about the artist and was told that he was the dealer’s father, Ed
Gilliam, and that he had just started making pottery. Now, 20 years later, (and more than 100 chargers in my collection) I am determined that the rest of the world should have the chance to see a portion of Gilliam’s body of work. And to that end I have been lending his work for various oneman shows. The latest installation was in the Gallery at Paradise Garden, Howard Finster’s epic environment in Summerville, Ga. I think that this is appropriate since Finster always encouraged other artists to create, inviting them to display their work in the Rolling Chair Ramp Gallery in Paradise Garden for all the world to see. Ed Gilliam is a complex individual with the manners of a highly refined southern gentleman, who gives himself free rein to express himself in his artwork. He was born in Richmond, Va. on September 12, 1930 (a date he often inscribes onto the back of his plates) to an old-line Richmond family. He then moved to New York as a young man, living there from 1956 to 1973. Perhaps this helps explain his dichotomy of quiet demeanor and riotous imagery. As a child, Gilliam was encouraged to paint and draw. He did his first watercolors at the age of six and took drawing classes from a local artist in his teenage years. Not having any
money to pay her, he cut her grass in exchange for his lessons. But as is often the case, growing up, making a living, getting married and having children left little time for art. He made one painting the entire time he was in New York—a beautiful and moody abstract using a silver metallic paint as the base color. In 1973, he moved with his family to just outside Atlanta, Ga., where he has lived ever since, having careers as a CPA and as an attorney. Gilliam has also been a principal in a few businesses, including owning nine shoe stores named C. Edgar Ladies Shoes, before retiring and then starting his current career as an artist. Like Finster, Gilliam was 60 years old when he started making art again, this time with clay. He taught a figuredrawing class at The Roswell Visual Arts Center in exchange for a basic clay class and studio space in Clay West, a branch of that arts organization, and in the humble manipulation of mud he found his muse. Gilliam does not consider himself a potter but he does use the clay plate form simply as his “canvas”—a friendly surface on which to draw. The fired clay is something more sturdy and tactile than paper but not as formal as canvas. He is free to indulge his whimsical side with this form and will often use the round shape to great
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advantage in his compositions. When I look at one of his chargers I feel like I am seeing a snapshot of a story, if I could just figure it out. It’s a sort of cross between Hans Christian Andersen, Howard Finster and Stephen King. Human and non-human figures usually share space (and occasionally body parts) with animals, insects, birds and fish. Often his male figures are thinly veiled self-portraits. His later work seems to suggest an acute awareness of his own mortality. But with his art he ultimately seems to want to assure us that in the end things will be all right. Like Finster, he is inclined to use the written word on his artwork to instruct us with moral lessons, poetry or simply thought-provoking ideas. In Gilliam’s case those words and phrases are sometimes written in Latin or Sanskrit but with a handy English translation written on the back of the work. His series “Vocatus atque non vocatus, deus aderit,” which loosely translates to “Called or not called, God is always present,” is a way of reassuring us (as well as himself) that no matter what, God is always there for us. While these writings often reference the drawing, he also refuses to limit this added text to exclusively relating to the images on the plate, reasoning that beautiful words can stand-alone. And occasionally images standalone with nothing written on the front of the piece. He often relies on a slightly subdued shock value to make the viewer wonder about Ed Gilliam with Thomas Scanlin and his wife Tommye during a what makes this reclusive reception for Ed at his exhibit at Howard Finster’s Paradise artist “tick.” Garden in Summerville, GA. When one looks at Ed Gilliam’s art one sees the work of a master storyteller and sometimes trickster, traits often admired in Howard Finster as well. For a limited time, visitors could see the stories and lessons of this unique artist and Georgia treasure, Ed Gilliam, in Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden setting. ❍ Thomas E. Scanlin is a jewelry designer and owner of Studio Jewelers in Dahlonega, Ga. This article originally appeared in Folk Art Messenger, The Journal of the Folk Art Society of America. For more information please visit their website at www.folkart.org
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
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28 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
FOOD
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BY THE TIME WE GOT TO WOODSTOCK
The Century House Tavern, with its historic charm is nestled in the middle of the new Woodstock. By Frank Mack
Joni Mitchell wrote the song “Woodstock,” made famous by her then boyfriend Graham Nash with his band Crosby Stills and Nash. It’s a song about a spiritual journey to the Woodstock festival, which led a counter culture revolution. Well folks, I’m taking you on a journey to Woodstock this month. It ain’t spiritual, it ain’t a revolution, but it is about getting out and exploring our own Woodstock. I am sitting in a regenerated, renewed, and re-loved Woodstock city square in a drop dead gorgeous little business, The Century Tavern, designed by a local lady, owned by neighbors, staffed by friends, and surrounded by y’all. Woodstock and its little walkable downtown join a list of Outside the Perimeter (OTP) community centered pearls. Every day our little town centers are growing and changing in remarkable ways. I’m watching it, it’s right here in front of our eyes. It is where we as a people are re-growing our culture anew, again. It’s America. We get up. Go to work. Build things. Invent things and WE create ourselves. Woodstock, with its dreamy small southern main street, begins a halfmile off of Hwy. 92. For you East
Cobb folks that’s north, to you folks in Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek it’s west and well worth the drive. An area like this is not just walkable. It demands that you park and get out. Your wander can begin with the shops. The clothing shops are frankly impressive. Ladies, skip the malls, this is so much better, so much more fun and a lot less pricy.
29 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
The Century House Tavern Managing Partner and GM John Hayano with Chef Daniel Porubiansky.
The taste these shopkeepers are showing off is so far past what I thought possible or even practical in small town USA, it totally blows me away. It’s a miracle, you’ll hate the big gross boxes even more. In every shop, and in every single restaurant or other business, I stuck my head in, something else amazing happened. I got a big smile and an honest hello. A little love goes a loooong way people. The Food Beginning with a rare honor, this month I give the “Honest To Mustard” award to the best Chicago restaurant outside of Chicago, to Hot Dog Heaven, located at 8558 Main Street. It’s a dumpy yellow hole in the wall place that’s been there forever and serves some of the best dogs and an Italian beef sandwich that rocks. It’s in the product, the worn floors, the equipment and that man. That guy in the back with a face that looks like 40 years of hard work. This is as good as it gets. Period. This place people, is big city home cooking true and through. To a guy like me I can hear the elevated trains whizzing by and I swear you can hear Jack Brickhouse and Harry Carey in there. I swear it on a cursed goat. Philly guys, come on, you’ll understand. You folks from Detroit, Cleveland, all of you from big city America, I found it. A real life dog “joint” that’s legit. But get there soon. According to the owner they only have another year or so before the bulldozers of progress plow this joint under. Across the street I had an incredible meal at The Century
House Tavern located at 125 East Main Street. Tavern is a word in Yankee parlance, which is an original “home” based biz if ever there was. It exists as personal extension of its owners and their homes. Tavern implies a personal host and style and states out front, we’re nice, we’re professional and we are decidedly non-snooty. If you grade The Century House Tavern by that, it’s perfect. The Century House Tavern is a showpiece of everything right in a small local business. Designed by a friend from City Antiques in Roswell, Lori Sturgess. It’s taste joined with historic and comfort. Mother Nature and fate placed it in its central location. The trees in summer make the dining outside incomparable. The ownership obviously cherishes their location, working with it, not paving over it. The table experience is warm, professional and spot on. It is perfection graded by “fine” restaurant standards anywhere on the planet. The food? Wow. Outstanding, perfection, plate fulls of some of the best pure culinary artistry going. Chef, not Cook, Daniel Porubiansky, and his team, kill it. The shaved veggie salad is mind bending to a carnivore like me. That’s vegan? I’m in! The mushroom soup is silky ecstasy. The prime rib sandwich is as good as it can be done from crisp bread to the pool of Au Jus to crisp perfect hand cut fries. The desserts are OMG delicious top to bottom. I did the strawberry tart, I hardly have the words to continued on page 32
30 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
HOME
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UPDATE YOUR LANDSCAPE TO REFLECT NEW TRENDS IN HOMEOWNERSHIP
This variegated dogwood Cornus kousa 'Wolf Eyes' brightens shade gardens with variegated foliage. By Nancy Wallace
It’s May and I don’t know about you, but I’m planning to fill up some open spots in a few landscapes this summer. Many of my clients “update” their landscapes, much like you would update a kitchen or a bathroom. And just like your home, the landscape should be updated once in a while so that it maintains its curb appeal and reflects the changing trends in homeownership. With all the rain we’ve been having, it’s looking like we’re in for a beautiful summer season. One of the best ways to address an empty spot in the landscape is with a “foliage filler.” What I mean by this, is determining what kind of plant will make a difference in the landscape, while appearing as though it has been there all along. It may be a small landscape tree with variegated foliage in a shade garden, or it might be a grouping of dwarf conifers, like Cryptomeria ‘Globosa Nana’ for a sunny bank. Often times, when updating a landscape, unique foliage plants are a good choice because they not only blend nicely with surrounding materials, but
31 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
into a small landscape tree or maintained as a large shrub over time, depending on your landscape needs, so use it where it has plenty of room to grow. Clip long stalks of flowers and bring them indoors to enjoy in a vase, or cut them back in September to dry for upcoming floral projects. You can rely on a consistent bloom production May through October (depending on the first frost). Now how about a couple of shade garden filler ideas? One of my favorite ways to brighten a shade garden is with a foliage plant, which Introducing a new evergreen ground cover shrub often means using something with that's also deer resistant: Distylium 'Vintage Jade.' variegated foliage. The dogwood tree, they also stand out on their own. Cornus kousa ‘Wolfe Eyes’ is an excelThat being said, many homeowners lent selection for this purpose, and want something blooming yearworks best as an understory tree with round in their gardens, so selecting adequate moisture during its first few the best “bang for the buck” is impor- growing seasons. The large tant when updating your landscape. variegated leaves brighten the shade Let’s start with a couple of full-sun, garden, and the flowers appear later garden-filler ideas. If you have a full- than our native dogwood trees. Late sun to partly-shaded area, there are spring flowers are followed by some new kids on the block you’ll raspberry-like fruit in the summer want to get to know: the Distylium which attracts birds. (The fruit is also introductions. The new hybrids are edible to humans, if grown evergreen, insect- and organically.) In the fall, disease-resistant, and the DON’T GET the leaves turn a lovely deer don’t seem to bother STUCK USING mahogany-rose, so them. To add to their THE SAME OLD you’ll get landscape inappeal, they produce tiny terest from this tree in LANDSCAPE red flowers along their three out of the four MATERIALS branches in February seasons. WHEN YOU when little else is My last suggestion WANT TO blooming. The two new for landscape fillers in a selections I’ve had success IMPLEMENT shady location is a longwith over the last couple CHANGE. time favorite: of years are ‘Vintage Jade’ Cephalotaxus (two feet tall with a five-foot spread) harringtonia ‘Prostrata’, more and ‘Blue Cascade’ that grows three commonly know as Creeping Yew. feet tall with a four-foot spread. Both This tough-as-nails yew performs as of these new cultivars have endured an evergreen ground cover with some particularly brutal winter tem- graceful, arching branches covered peratures here in Georgia and have with fine green needles. It is drought emerged in spring with little to no tolerant once established, but grows frost damage. When using these very slowly. When planted en masse plants, don’t forget to keep in mind in the shade garden, it’s quite their wider-than-normal spread. stunning. No disease or insect If you haven’t seen a Hydrangea problems, and the deer won’t touch ‘Limelight’ in full bloom during the it. It just doesn’t get any better than summer, put this plant on your list that for tough landscape situations. (although it should be noted that it Don’t get stuck using the same old isn’t deer resistant, so it works best landscape materials when you want to when used behind a fence or where implement change. There are new introdeer are absent). Because the ductions here in Georgia every year, so Limelight hydrangea grows quickly learn how to expand your garden and blooms on new wood, a threepalette by experimenting a little bit. gallon plant will provide loads of Nancy provides garden design & huge white blooms the very first sea- renovation services. Follow her son. This hydrangea can be shaped blog: wallacegardens.tumblr.com.
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EDUCATION
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
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Testing continued from page 25
gather comprehensive information about how these students’ development compares to their peers elsewhere in the country. Data from this test—the first national standardized test students take—is used to implement specific plans to improve students’ reading and critical thinking skills. CCSD is becoming more data-driven. The data is sent to the individual schools, and Kattoula holds district-wide training sessions to show officials how to “unpack” the data as well as working with different departments in the central office. Principals and teachers are encouraged to modify curricula based on students’ needs. Walton High School in particular uses data from the SAT and AP tests to develop its curricula and push students to succeed. The superintendent has been encouraging local schools to develop their own plans to use national test data to improve their curricula and support teachers. Although testing data is not used to determine teachers’ salaries, it can be used to support teachers in many ways, including developing a rigorous curriculum that includes not just books but professional development, technology, and inter-school collaboration. When budgets are developed, curriculum and instructional funding will pay for various initiatives. Some schools might use the money to improve their reading programs, while others might use them for an improved math curriculum or support students seeking to take AP classes. Principals have a lot of leeway for the use of curriculum and instructional funding, although curricula must meet state standards. However, Cobb County Schools do not use testing data to determine teacher salaries, nor is it used to determine school enrollment or whether schools stay open. If a school isn’t performing well, principals will seek assistance from Kattoula’s office. Staff will assist teachers and provide new resources based on school needs. “Every school is eclectic in the way their students are,” he said. “Their needs vary.” ❍
FOOD
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Woodstock, continued from page 29
describe it so you’ll have to come over for yourself. That place, that meal, those people. I can’t say it stronger. It’s fabulous, all of it. The brand new Salt Factory Pub, on also on Main Street, takes Roswell’s original gourmet gastro pub concept westward and now makes it three locations in addition to the one in Alpharetta. You will never be disappointed. That family of restaurants includes the 5-star Little Alley Steakhouse on Canton Street and the pizza joint Fix. These people know their business. Other local restaurateurs of note are also jumping on the Woodstock train. The Sedgwicks, who started Pure Taqueria in Alpharetta and Roswell have opened a Pure Taqueria right there in the middle of Woodstock and yes they have a roof deck. Their list includes Bistro VG in Roswell, Made in Alpharetta, and Aspen in East Cobb. It’s local, it’s excellent and it’s all ours. Three-cheers and a toast! There is nothing bad here folks. There isn’t. Every single restaurant, every shop, fits its space and use to perfection, cheap dogs to free window shopping and people watching. What’s not to love? What’s stopping you? Woodstock is worth the drive to explore our little area of the world. Schedule your day to include what’s really happening in America and as always, turn that darn TV off. We’ll all be better for it. The old South is getting funkier people and I like it. ❍ >>>> Catch Frank’s column online at TheCurrentHub.com <<<<< >>>>> Find us on Facebook too: facebook.com/CurrentPlus <<<<<
KIDS/EDUC.
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33 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
THE EXCITEMENT OF GRADUATION
>> KIDS & KAY
By Kay Paschal
It’s Graduation time! How exciting for the students (and parents) around town, watching the congratulation signs going up in the front of subdivisions all over Atlanta, some of which will linger way into the summer months! In April we discussed receiving letters of acceptance for preschool children entering the area’s private schools, as well as high school students receiving their much anKay Paschal, Owner ticipated college acceptance invitations. Now that Peachtree Park Prep everyone has all their options “on the table,” the hard part of making the appropriate decision for your child, no matter what the adulthood, or your precious age, is taking place in conjunction with making all the wonderful grad- preschooler into the big world of elementary school, you will agree uation plans for these same that at all stages during your child’s children. Making it through all the gradua- life, Dr. Seuss has had a way of just “nailing it:” tion plans and events is incredibly exciting and at the same time “How did it get so late so soon? emotionally draining. We mourn the It’s night before it’s afternoon. end of an era and at the same time look forward with excitement to the December is here before June. beginning of new adventures and My goodness, how the time has growth for our child as well as for flewn. ourselves if you are starting your How did it get so late so soon? empty-nesting! Congratulations to your sons and I will share with you a poem that I share at my preschool graduation daughters. each year that seems to just sum it Kay Paschal is Owner of Peachtree up. I am sure whether you are a par- Park Prep ent graduating a child from high school into college, from college into
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34 May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
COMMUNITY BRIEFS >>MUSIC Six String Social Club The Six String Social Club Concert Series is honored to present two-time Grammy® Winner and former lead guitarists for Paul McCartney’s and Wings, Laurence Juber in concert on May 9, 2015. Fusing folk, jazz and pop styles, two-time Grammy-winner Laurence Juber creates a multifaceted performance that belies the use of only one acoustic guitar. As a young working musician in London, England in the 1970s, Laurence Juber got an extraordinary, lifechanging break when Paul McCartney picked him to become Wings’ lead guitarist. Juber spent three years recording and touring with the band. During that time, he won a Best Rock Instrumental GRAMMY® for the track “Rockestra” from the Wings album Back To The Egg.
>>RESTAURANTS Two New Restaurants In East Cobb Doug Turbush, owner of Seed and Stem, will be opening a third restaurant in December 2015. Located in the Avenue East Cobb (former Coldwater Creek), the restaurant will be called Drift, a modern fish house and oyster bar. Also, the Paper Mill Grill will reopen in this month. Expect a fresh take on the original Paper Mill Grill with great food, craft beer and special cocktails. The menu will feature seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. A new interior look brings an update, comfortable feel. And last but not least. Did you know Red Sky Tapas & Bar in East Cobb serves lunch? The lunch menu features salads, sandwiches, tacos and more. Perfect for a ladies get together or business lunch. Why eat fast food when you can have a quality meal in a comfortable setting?
>>HISTORY Roswell Celebrates Heritage Days in May May is National Historic Preservation Month and Roswell will celebrate with Heritage Days in May, a month-long event series that As a studio musician, he can be heard on recent albums from artists celebrates the people, places and events that make up our City. as diverse as Dan Hicks & the Hot “Heritage Days in May is a great Licks and Barry Manilow, plus he is opportunity to showcase the wide featured on the soundtracks to hundreds of TV shows and movies in- variety of events in our City,” said cluding the academy award-winning Morgan Rodgers, Roswell’s Recreation, Parks, Historic and Good Will Hunting and the current Cultural Affairs Director. “We will Muppet Movie. feature over 34 different events durThe location of the concert is Woodstock Community Church, 237 ing the month that highlight the history and culture of Roswell.” Rope Mill Road, Woodstock GA Here are just a few events: 30188. The show starts at 8 p.m. • The Cultural Arts Center will presDoors open at 7:30 p.m.. Advance ent the Roswell Photographic tickets are $30 and are available at Society’s 12th Annual Roswell www.sixstringsocialclub.com. Call Heritage Juried Photographic (770)365-7738 for concert Exhibit; dance recitals; an Atlanta information. Wind Symphony Concert; and the Former “Wings” Lead Guitarist Laurence Juber in Concert
>>SENIORS/JOHNS CREEK International Film Series at Park Place You know those foreign or Indie movies you’ve heard about but never seen? Now, you can see them for free at Park Place’s new International Film Series. The movies, which also include American independent films, are highly acclaimed projects that have been shown at film festivals, independent theaters, or at specific film series programs across the U.S. The films to be shown are: • Sunday, May 24, 3:30 p.m. Stories We Tell is about a filmmaker who delves into a family’s lore, and learns the complicated, loving and contradictory truths inherent in common stories held by different members of a family. • Sunday, June 28, 3:30 p.m. The Visitor focuses on a college professor travels to New York City to attend a conference and finds a young couple living in his apartment. RSVPs requested. Refreshments provided. Park Place programs and activities are designed for Johns Creek residents aged 62 and older. Questions? Call 678-512-3430 or ParkPlace@JohnsCreekGA.gov.
>>SCHOOLS Zeff named interim leader of Fulton County Schools The Fulton County Board of Education tonight named Kenneth Zeff as the school system’s interim superintendent beginning June 2. The announcement came after current Superintendent Robert Avossa’s selection last week as the new leader for the School District of Palm Beach County in Florida. Zeff joined Fulton County Schools in 2012 as its Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer. In this role he provides direction for the development and execution of the school system’s overall strategy to improve student achievement throughout the district. Zeff holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. Although he officially becomes interim superintendent on June 2, he will continue working closely with outgoing Superintendent Avossa prior to his departure to ensure a smooth transition.
>>JOHNS CREEK Free Outdoor Fitness Class The Johns Creek Recreation & Parks Division offers a new, free Outdoor Fitness program this spring. Looking to try something new or you just enjoy working out in a fun outdoor atmosphere, the Outdoor Fitness classes are a great workout. Classes are taught by certified instructors and all fitness levels are welcome. No registration needed. All participants are required to sign a waiver before participating. Class schedule for is Yoga on the 17th and Zumba on the 31st. All classes will be held at 9 a.m. Takes place at Newtown Park Amphitheater (located inside Newtown Park).
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Roswell Presents concert “Dirty Bourbon River Show” • Bulloch Hall will host the “Dressed for Drama” exhibition with items from the Roswell Historical Society’s vintage clothing collection, two lectures and a propagation class • Barrington Hall will host the North Fulton Drama Club’s production of Twelfth Night, Tea with Beatrix Potter, lectures, cooking classes, and garden tours • The Southern Trilogy Homes will host the annual Mother’s Day Open House featuring free admission on May 10 • The Chattahoochee Nature Center will host a gala on May 9, canoe adventures, Sunset Sips and a concert on May 24. For a full list of events and details, download the full Heritage Days in May brochure at www.heritagedays inmay.com
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
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A LIVE MUSIC SPOTLIGHT…
Ya’ll ReadyTo Rock? By Tripp Liles
The summer of music begins with something for every musical taste. There’s nothing quite like experiencing concerts in the Atlanta area, whether it’s a huge outdoor show with thousands of fans, or a late night jazz session in an intimate club, our area has a lot to offer. In my college days I was a music snob. You know, college radio DJ, only interested in the unknown bands yet to be discovered. Those days are long gone by but I’m still a music snob and lets just say that this summer, in my snobbish opinion, we’ll be treated to some of the best music available. This stuff will suit you no matter the genre or how scrutinizing your musical palate may be. In our area we have numerous facilities that offer a wide variety of concerts and music events. There is the beautiful Roswell Cultural Arts Center, Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, outdoor venues such as Riverside Park in Roswell, Chukkar Farms in Alpharetta, and even intimate venues like the Velvet Note jazz club in
Sara Evans
Alpharetta or Darwin’s in East Cobb, which features blues in a real dive bar setting. With summer upon us there are ample opportunities to sample nearly every type of music you can imagine in nearly every type of venue you could think of.
A B I G T I M E F E S T I VA L Have you been pining for the days when music filled the streets and interesting people were all around? Well your dreams have come true as a new weekend festival is starting this year called the Shaky Boots Music Festival. This two-day event will take place May 16-17 at the KSU Sports and Entertainment Park in Kennesaw. A Who’s Who of country’s top stars, including Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton,
Cracker Old Crow Medicine Show Dierks Bentley, and Rascal Flatts will perform at this sure to be jam-packed concert. Shaky Boots is Georgia’s first major, multi-day country music festival. It was co-founded by local promoter Tim Sweetwood, and it’s a companion of sorts to another Atlanta event produced by Sweetwood, the indierock-oriented Shaky Knees Festival held in Atlanta on May 8-10. It is part of a nationwide trend in coupling big events by promoters. The Shaky Knees and Shaky Boots festivals make up one of three major rock and country cousin events in 2015. This is the ninth year that Coachella and Stagecoach will share the same
California desert venue, separated by just one week in April. And the producers of Delaware’s annual Firefly Festival have announced the new Big Barrel music festival, which boasts Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton as its first headliners this June. “Country music has such a rich history in the South,” says Sweetwood, “and I was surprised that Georgia doesn’t have a first-class festival dedicated to the genre. Music is my absolute passion, and with the overwhelmingly positive response to Shaky Knees in three short years, it just felt like the right time to launch Shaky Boots.”
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SMALL SCALE
SHAKY BOOTS FESTIVAL LINEUP ooooooooooooo
SATURDAY, MAY 16 BLAKE SHELTON o DIERKS BENTLEY THE BAND PERRY o DWIGHT YOAKAM JASON ISBELL o KIP MOORE JOE NICHOLS o JANA KRAMER THE DEVIL MAKES THREE THE WHISKEY GENTRY KRISTIAN BUSH AMANDA SHIRES o THE RAILERS BROOKE EDEN
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
Jim White
Sometimes music needs to breathe the fresh air and so do we. If you like outdoor music in a more intimate setting there are numerous ways to enjoy Mother Nature while taking in a guitar lick or two. The Roswell Recreation and Parks Department sponsors live music monthly at the beautiful outdoor stage at Riverside Park in Roswell. The annual series features a wide array of talent on the first Saturday of each month May through October from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. For each show they have at least two food trucks so you can enjoy the sounds while truly dining out. This summer’s line up includes a wide variety of artists from rock, folk, world, funk and even some reggae. If you haven’t been, this is a great place for families to come and enjoy the park and music. Some of the events and festivals we feature in this article are not kid friendly but this is definitely for the whole family. A highlight will be in July when River Whyless perform on the 11th (a week later than first Saturday, due to July 4 celebrations). River Whyless band members are from Ashville, NC and they have a haunting sound that expands on Americana roots. They’ve have been featured on NPR’s World Café, Paste magazine, and SiriusXM. If you only make one of these, make it this one. For more info on this series visit www.roswellriversidesounds.com. Not to be left out, the Chattahoochee Nature Center, right up the road from
James Castro Riverside Park, is having a series of music concerts at their Ken Brady Lakeside Pavilion. This is a new partnership with Atlanta Plays It Forward and the CNC. “These new Sunday evening monthly concerts will take place at the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s beautiful Ben Brady Lakeside Pavilion starting at 6 p.m. Bring your own picnic and table coverings and we’ll provide the table and chairs at the pavilion,” Tom LaDow of Atlanta Plays It Forward said. You’ll meet several of Atlanta’s best vocalists; Melanie Dobbins; Brandon DeGroff; Michele GlenDe; and Alvin Maddox, who will bring you a vibrant evening of cabaret music at this intimate Chastain style setting.” Continues on next page.
SUNDAY, MAY 17 BRAD PAISLEY o RASCAL FLATTS JUSTIN MOORE o SARA EVANS OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW ELI YOUNG BAND o JOSH THOMPSON Brad Paisley Beyond country music the festival will feature Americana sounds represented by the likes of Dwight Yoakam, Jim White, Old Crow Medicine Show, and even a set by rockers Cracker. Tickets for the event are on sale at Shakyboots.com.
THE CADILLAC THREE o CRACKER DRAKE WHITE & THE BIG FIRE CLARE DUNN JIM WHITE VS THE PACKWAY HANDLE BAND ooooooooooooo River Whyless
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Ready to Rock? continued from page 36
May 2015 | thecurrenthub.com
In May they feature Satin Alley Jazz, a choral big band jazz act, on the 24th. For information on this series visit chattnaturecenter.org. In Alpharetta there is a concert series called Home By Dark produced by a local musician James Castro at Chukkar Farm. This series is in the ever-popular ‘concert in the round’ style where performers engage the audience with conversation and song. The shows take place on the first Friday and Saturday of the month, May through October at Chukkar Farm with a few special shows on a larger scale at the Gwinnett Center in Duluth. Chukkar Farm, located at 1140 Liberty Grove Road in Alpharetta, is a 100-acre facility that offers a unique setting to enjoy music. “I started going to these shows last year and they are wonderful,” said Julie Harris who lives in East Cobb. “It is definitely worth the short drive and to see and hear the musicians in this setting is pretty cool.” They offer tables to rent or you may bring your own chairs. Each show begins at 8 p.m. with tickets starting at $19.07 for an individual show. They offer season passes starting at $90. For more info visit www.homebydark.com.
INSIDE SOUNDS Should you come back from the beach with bad sunburn or if you have allergies and just don’t want to listen to music outdoors, don’t fret. There are plenty of venues that offer great sounds… and a roof. The grand champion of our local music scene is definitely the Velvet Note in Alpharetta. This facility was especially built for music with the assistance of acoustic design engineer George Seldon who is a protégée of George Lucas. They are open Thursdays through Sundays and offer limited seating sue to the intimate setting. Most of their acts come from the jazz genre and amongst performers the place is gaining quite a reputation. “This venue is absolutely fantastic. It is a performer’s dream come true, classy atmosphere, listening audience, comfortable and relaxed… not stuffy. And the best part is its host, Tamara, who sets the tone for each evening, like we’re all there, friends and gathering for a common purpose—digging deep into the music,” said Nashville Jazz vocalist Annie Sellick. For info on their upcoming shows visit www.thevelvetnote.com. The Roswell Cultural Arts Center also offers a concert series called Roswell LIVE!. In May they have Dirty Bourbon River Show (see page 5) and
Shawn Mullins
on June 13 they feature local legend Shawn Mullins. Mullins is a Grammynominated artist who will perform an intimate acoustic set. He recently found himself on top of the country charts as co-writer of Zac Brown Band’s “Toes”, making it his third #1 single, following 1999’s “Lullaby” and the 2006 Triple A/Americana charttopper “Beautiful Wreck.” Mullins demonstrates a newfound level of musical and lyrical ambition with his new album Light You Up, which will likely be viewed as a flat-out revelation, even by Mullins’ most fervent fans. Tickets for these shows are available
at www.roswellcac.com. Beyond these indoor facilities there are numerous restaurants and music venues in the area like Darwin’s Burgers and Blues in East Cobb or 37 Main in Johns Creek, which feature great music throughout the week. So no matter your taste in music there is something for us all this summer. Now go out and enjoy some great tunes. ❍
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