mNorth Atlanta Magazine - May 2016

For Modern Women MAY | JUNE 2016

Woodstock’s Southern Charm

QUEEN OF SAKE Forsyth grad becoming world-class sommelier

Fashion: Top 5 Accessories for Summer

2

Moments Magazine | March-April 2015

MAY

JUNE

12

20 14

28

contents 8 WINDY HO

14 Summer style

12 Jeri Sue Simon

20 kitchen table

Sake enthusiast becoming one of 80 sommeliers in U.S. Mom turns getting into shape into full-time job

From hats to sunglasses, we’ve got you covered

24 Date night inspirations 18 Events around North Atlanta 28 City at a Glance: Woodstock

Business creates home-cooked meals

on the cover...

Windy Ho, daughter if Rice Restaurant and Sushi Bar, decided she wanted to expand her knowledge of sake and become a sake sommelier. After extensive training in New York City, Ho will receive her official Sake Sommelier Certification from the Sake School of America this summer. That will make her one of just 80 to hold that distinction in the United States.

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May | June 2016

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Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request.

Contact Ryan Garmon at (770) 205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com.

Vince Johnson - Publisher

Ryan Garmon - Advertising Director

Micah Green - Creative Director

I

t’s no secret how much I love food. I love to cook it, photograph it, imagine it, and of course, eat it. Looking at this issue of M, I am thinking we should call it our culinary tribute to North Atlanta! First and foremost, I cannot wait for you to meet Windy Ho, daughter of the owners of Rice Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Cumming and Eight Sushi Lounge in Midtown. Windy is about to be certified as a sake sommelier, one of only 80 in the country. How cool is that?

I also loved meeting Tara Newton, owner and head cook of The Kitchen Table in South Forsyth. The place is an adorable (and yummy) lunch spot, but even better, you can order home-cooked dinners for your family. No more pizza or fast food on those nights when you don’t have time to cook. It’s a genius concept.

Sydney went on a day trip to Woodstock and also discovered some great places to shop and eat. I cannot wait to visit Truck & Tap to try out some of the food trucks that stop by.

Of course there is much more in this packed issue. You will meet Jeri Sue Simon, one of the most energetic and inspiring people I have ever met. Check out the summer sangria recipe as well as information about the whole paleo movement. Kayla highlights some must-haves for this summer. Who can believe it’s almost here! Micah gives us all some tips for taking better photos — something I definitely need.

As always, we love hearing from readers. Feel free to send us an email!

Tracie Pike - Copy Editor/Page Designer

Angie Decker - Graphic Designer

Kayla Robins - Contributing Writer

Sydney Robinson - Contributing Writer

Adlen Robinson Content Director

Adlen W. Robinson is a longtime resident of Forsyth County and mother of four.

A contributor to the Forsyth County News for more than 10 years, Adlen is the author of “Home Matters: The Guide to Organizing Your Life and Home.”

Email her at contact@adlenrobinson.com.

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Cheri BULLARD Advertising

Connor Kelly Advertising

May | June 2016

photos by Micah Green

Handy, Lei and Windy Ho at Eight Sushi Bar in Midtown Atlanta.

Sake Sommelier

Daughter of Rice owners hones skill

By Adlen W. Robinson

Windy Ho was a junior in high school when her parents, Lei Ho and Jeff Chai, decided to move to Cumming and open Rice Restaurant and Sushi Bar. Ho’s mother was a certified sushi chef and her father was a Chinese chef. They were passionate about food and family and wanted a restaurant that reflected both.

That was in 2005. Eleven years later, Rice is still a favorite spot in Forsyth County.

Ho said her mother, besides a passion for sushi, has also always had a strong interest in sake. And she passed that down to her daughter.

“I loved sake early on and was so excited to learn more about it,” Windy

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Ho said.

After receiving professional training as a bartender, Ho decided she wanted to expand her knowledge of sake and become a sake sommelier.

After extensive training in New York City, Ho will receive her official Sake Sommelier Certification from the Sake School of America this summer. That will make her one of just 80 to hold that distinction in the United States.

“There are so many types of sake, and I want to show sake is so much more versatile than many think,” she said. “You don’t have to just drink sake with sushi. It actually pairs very well with meat, chicken or pasta as well.”

While many may think sake is only served hot, there are numerous variet-

‘I loved sake early on and was so excited to learn more about it.’

Windy Ho

Sake Sommelier ies meant to be served chilled, Ho explained, making it the perfect beverage to enjoy in summer.

A few years ago, the family looked May | June 2016

Handy Ho, Windy’s brother, is a certified sushi chef.

at expanding and last December opened Eight Sushi Lounge, an upscale restaurant in Midtown Atlanta.

“The concept for Eight came from a combination of everyone’s passion and their unique skills,” Ho said.

“My mother’s eye for detail, sharp taste, love for sake and sushi; my father’s eye for art, creative new ideas, putting dishes together; my brother Handy’s knife skills as a certified sushi chef; and even my little sister, Nicole, who was able to bring my father’s vision of a logo for Eight to reality.”

As for her, Ho said she has a love for business and an eye for detail when it comes to customer service. Of course, there is also her love and knowledge of sake, which helps Eight and Rice stand out.

“We were able to travel to various distributors and find sakes that are incredibly hard to find,” she said. “In fact, we will have some that are not available anywhere else in all of Georgia.

Calvin Pratama shows off a plate of sushi he created at Rice Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Cumming.

May | June 2016

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Windy Ho and brother Handy at Eight Sushi Lounge in Midtown.

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May | June 2016

“At Eight we offer flights of sakes, so you can enjoy a progression from appetizer to entrée and even to enjoy with dessert.”

While most sushi restaurants offer one or two types of sake, Ho said Rice and Eight have many to choose from and she is always on the lookout for new ones.

“We have sake that was produced using the most traditional methods and also some from the most futuristic method of centrifuging the sake,” she said.

Ho said her family takes pride in both restaurants.

“We have always believed in doing our best and serving the very best quality,” Ho said.

“And we always want to have an atmosphere that is one of family.”

‘We have always believed in doing our best and serving the very best quality. And we always want to have an atmosphere that is one of family.’

Windy Ho

Sake Sommelier

May | June 2016

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Jeri Sue Simon leads children in exercises

Fitness for all

photos by Micah Green

Mother of triplets turns training into passion

By Adlen W. Robinson

Jeri Sue Simon has always been a physically active person. As a child and young adult, she danced, played competitive tennis and was a cheerleader. She also was on a swim team and ran cross country and track. In fact, there was no sport she was afraid to participate in.

Flash forward to when she and husband John found out they were expecting triplets. Her physically active world came to an abrupt halt.

“I was on total bed rest for almost five months,” she said. “Going from being very active and in good shape to not being allowed

to even move, took such a toll on me both physically and emotionally.”

Simon gained more than 90 pounds and had to use a wheelchair when she went to doctor appointments.

“I did a lot of soul searching during that time,” she said. “And it was really then I decided, after our babies were born, I committed to getting my body back and helping others transform theirs.”

After her triplets were born, and as soon as she was able, Simon began to walk and run in her neighborhood.

Soon after, she became a personal trainer and a group

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fitness instructor and went on to earn a succession of fitness certifications in group exercise. She then advanced to become a master trainer, training other instructors and mentoring them.

“It is important to me to be able to provide clients with whatever fitness environment works best for them,” she explained.

“Some people like the personalized attention of a personal trainer and others prefer a group environment.

“Two things I say to myself and to my clients and classes is, ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. And when you feel like quitting, think about why you started.’”

Clearly passionate about all things fitness, Simon has been teaching classes at the Vickery Village YMCA for the past decade. Her triplets — Anthony, Triston and Brooke — are now 13 years old.

While most of her courses are for adults, Simon has a special place in her heart for children. Touting a long list of certifications in adult and children’s fitness, Simon also volunteers four days a week at Vickery Village Elementary, teaching fitness as well as nutrition classes.

“I love empowering children,” she said. “It’s so important in today’s world that kids get enough physical activity.”

Simon also teaches lowMay | June 2016

impact classes for senior citizens at retirement homes.

“I provide modifications so everybody can participate on some level,” she said.

Besides the hundreds of people she reaches through her fitness classes at the YMCA and her volunteer work in the community, Simon is also involved with Beachbody as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor.

“I can’t be everywhere all of the time, but with Beachbody I’m able to help my team all over the U.S. and in Canada with online personal motivational tips and exercise plans,” she said.

“Beachbody offers so many products and programs, so many of my clients have achieved success through the program.”

Whether training adults, teaching fitness classes or helping children get fit, exercise is more than an activity to Simon, it is her life philosophy.

“For me, it’s all about helping others,” she said. “I love combining my passion for fitness with helping others achieve their goals.”

Jeri Sue can be reached at jsfitness@comcast.net

May | June 2016

Jeri Sue’s Tips for Getting Kids off the Couch and away from Technology • Monthly Challenge Calendar. Create your own with different exercises for different days.

Give them points for each day they complete the exercises and at the end of the month they can “redeem” them.

Rewards can be choosing what’s for dinner (healthy options, of course), or perhaps gift cards to a sporting goods store.

• Plant a garden. Gets everybody outside on a regular basis, and when it’s time to harvest, nothing beats homegrown vegetables.

• Lead by example. We parents should cut down on our own couch and technology time! Turn off the television and shut off the devices.

Have family board game night or better yet, go play basketball or tennis together.

• Family walks. Try taking a walk with the kids and dogs after dinner every night or at least a few times a week.

• Kids Fit Club Class. Bring your kids to my class at the Vickery YMCA. We always have so much fun and the kids don’t even realize they are getting a workout!

• Swim. Instead of just watching your kids in the pool, get in there and swim laps with them.

m North Atlanta Magazine 13

Accessories for Summer

Top 5 items to maximize outdoor style and fun

By Kayla Robins

T

here are a few things that come standard with the end of May. White pants, vacation planning, grilling and sun.

While everyone may have their go-to checklist of outdoor accessories that make any activity complete, here are some reminders.

The items are simple and may seem obvious. But the key is finding the right variety that fits, both in how you look and how you feel.

Whether heading to a spontaneous day-trip on the water, hosting a dinner party in your backyard or simply relaxing outside with a good book, always be sure you have what you need.

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Sunglasses With countless pairs on the racks, the best way to find your favorite sunglasses is to try a lot on until you see what you like. There are some who would try to match the shape of a person’s face to the best style, and you certainly can research that, but if you put a pair on, look in the mirror and feel confident, that’s the one for you.

I like to keep a larger pair for when I’m going to be around water a lot so more of my eyes and face is covered. Then I also have a smaller, nicer pair for less active, more stylish occasions.

May | June 2016

Beach bag Once you have all these accessories, your wallet/keys/phone and anything else you may want to bring for a day out in the sun, you definitely need somewhere to put it all.

My biggest rule for a beach or pool bag is that it doesn’t matter if it gets wet and can be wiped off easily if it gets sandy. It also needs to be big enough to fit my towel and other items so I can keep anything I don’t want in the sun cool and dry.

Cover-up Summer hat Again, there’re so many options to choose from, between big floppy hats to fedoras to caps and even to wraps.

A lot of department stores will have onesize-fits-all hats, which can work. However, you may want to try a boutique or even a hat store if you are particular about the fit on your head (I have a small head, so one-size hats usually fall right off of me).

Here’s one – maybe obvious – tip for finding a good summer hat. You don’t need just one. Maybe grab a floppy hat for the beach and a fedora for outdoor social functions.

Whether you’re hitting the pool or the beach, or even taking the kids to a pool party, a cover-up to wear over a bathing suit that is comfortable and easy to get in and out of is key.

I personally like having one because it’s all one piece that doesn’t get soggy or irritating if it gets wet and is easy to keep track of. As with sunglasses and hats, there are endless types to choose from. Opaque or transparent, short or long, lose or form-fitting, skirt and dresses or shorts and pants, it all depends on what you like.

Tip: You don’t need to spend a ton of money on a cover-up, since that’s all it needs to do, and it will probably be thrown in the sand or splashed with water.

Lotion with sunscreen I’m a big fan of lotion, especially when the summer sun can dry out your skin. Keep a travel bottle in your brand new beach bag to always have some on hand.

Bigger bottles to keep at home can include aftersun aloe lotion. Sunburns can be soothed with aloe vera gel, but there are also moisturizers that have the plant’s extract in them. This way, you get the benefits of a lotion and the soothing nature of aloe. Aloe lotions usually also come in summertime scents.

If you’re planning on being outside a lot this summer, look for a daily moisturizer that also has sunscreen in it. They come in face lotion, Chapstick and body lotion and can help protect your skin even when you’re not poolside or at the beach.

May | June 2016

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Paleo a way to go A healthy lifestyle choice to ponder

By Adlen W. Robinson

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past few years, you have likely heard of eating the “Paleo” way.

Chances are, you have a friend or coworker who espouses this way of eating. But if you think paleo eaters are people who just eat meat and vegetables, you are missing what this way of living is all about.

Simply put, the paleo diet is based on the types of foods presumed to have been eaten by the earliest humans — meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts. In other words, no dairy, grains, legumes and of course, no processed foods.

Many health experts tout the paleo lifestyle and say it can prevent (and in some cases heal) all sorts of illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression and infertility.

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While true paleo followers don’t consider it a diet, but instead a way of life, they also claim when you adopt paleo, you will lose weight.

If the thought of giving up your favorite yogurt or hunk of cheese seems impossible, try taking baby steps.

Begin by getting rid of processed foods and sugars from your diet.

The easiest way to stay away from processed foods in the grocery store is to shop the perimeter of the store and steer clear of the aisles. If you are not already, now is the time to become an expert label reader. So many products seem healthy but are far from it — containing harmful chemicals and additives that are mainly there to extend its shelf life or alter its texture. Do pickles really need green dye added to them? Why is sugar in almost everything?

Some Local Sources for Grass Fed Meats Farm Fresh Beef (in Ballground, GA) www.farmfreshbeef.net Mountain Valley Farm (Ellijay, GA) www.grassfedgeorgia.com Holden Creek Farm (Ellijay, GA) www.holdencreekfarms.com

Another interesting thing to note is that most health experts that praise the paleo lifestyle, stress that when consuming meat, you should always opt for 100 percent grass-fed beef, pastured pork, pastured chicken and wild caught fish.

In addition, experts say to purchase organic vegetables and fruits whenever possible. Since we are now in Farmers Market season, check out the many in our area and support local farmers. Your community and your health are sure to thank you.

May | June 2016

Guide to Eating paleo Food to enjoy • Fruits

• Eggs (from pastured chickens)

• Vegetables

• Fermented Foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, fermented vegetables)

• Lean meats (100% grass fed animals and pastured pork and chickens) • Seafood (wild caught) • Nuts and Seeds

• Healthy Fats (avocados, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, ghee, grass-fed butter)

Food to avoid

Benefits of Going Paleo

• Grains (including all wheat, corn, oats, quinoa, and rice) • Processed Foods and Sugars • Legumes (includes peanuts and beans) • Soy • Starches • White potatoes

• Stable blood sugar • Burn off stored fat • Reduced allergies • Balanced energy throughout day • Clear skin • Better teeth • Anti-inflamatory • Improved sleep

Hawaiian Chicken Burgers 2 pounds ground chicken (dark or white meat or a combination) 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (in the health section of the grocery store) 2 cloves garlic, finely minced 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 6 fresh pineapple rings For serving: Romaine or butter lettuce for wrapping burgers, tomato slices, thinly sliced onion In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, coconut aminos, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, sesame seeds, red pepper and black pepper. Form into six patties. Grill burgers over medium heat for about five minutes per side until cooked through.

Grill pineapple slices for a minute per side. Serve burgers on the lettuce wraps, topped with a slice of tomato, onion and pineapple. Top with sauce (recipe follows).

Sauce: 1/4 cup mayonnaise (made without dairy) 1 clove garlic 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1 teaspoon lime juice 1/4 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated Dash hot sauce Combine all sauce ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.

May | June 2016

m North Atlanta Magazine 17

Alive in Roswell Thursday | 5pm-9pm This family-friendly event features live bands, food trucks, kids games, face painting, balloons, etc. and enjoy participation from the many boutiques, small businesses and restaurants that surround the venues. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased and consumed at the venues.

May 19th & June 16th Historic Town Square & Canton Street Roswell, GA www.aliveinroswell.com

May

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Fusion Fest 6pm-8pm

Join Women’s Health and exhale for a nationwide Core Fusion party! The evening includes complimentary award-winning Core Fusion classes, plus sips and snacks, giveaways and more! Class space is limited! Registration is required.

Avalon 2200 Avalon Blvd. | Alpharetta, GA www.exhalespa.com/fusionfest

| 21 |

Public Works ‘TouchA-Truck’ | 10am-Noon

The Johns Creek Public Works Department presents the annual ‘Touch-A-Truck” event featuring construction equipment and fun activities for the whole family! Cost is FREE.

Things to do...

Would you like to submit an event to be considered for Life 400 North’s Things To Do? Email us at: events@forsythnews.com. Please type “Things To Do...” in the subject line.

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Bavarian Fest 2016

Experience a live Oomph band, dancing and a festive German atmosphere.

Imported and domestic beers and wines, soft drinks, wurst on a bun with sauerkraut, hot dogs and snacks will be available for sale. Sponsored by the Helen Chamber of Commerce.

Admission is $7 per person, FREE for all active military, retired & veterans (ID required.)

Helen Festalle 1074 Edelweiss St. | Helen, GA www.helenga.org

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Family Canoe Day 10am-2pm

Get your feet wet with our canoe guides on Beaver Pond. This 1½ hour introduction to canoeing is great for first time paddlers, families with young kids, or adults coming back to the sport. Ages 5–Adult. Advanced registration required. $15 General Public, $10 CNC Members.

Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road | Roswell, GA 30075 www.chattnaturecenter.org 770-992-2055 Ext.237

Newtown Park | 3150 Old Alabama Road | Johns Creek, GA www.johnscreekga.gov | 678-512-3200

| 21-22 |

Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival

Formerly known as the Mountain Flower Art Festival, the Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival is bringing in high quality arts and crafts to downtown Dahlonega, as well as having a Wine Garden for sampling fine local and regional wines. Hancock Park will also feature music groups to entertain our visitors and add to this cultural event.

Lakewood 400 Antiques Friday 9am-5pm | Saturday 9am-6pm Sunday 10am-5pm Admission: $3 (12 & under FREE) May 20-22 & June 17-19 Lakewood 400 Antiques Market 1321 Atlanta Highway | Cumming, GA www.lakewoodantiques.com

| 28-30 |

Alpharetta Arts Streetfest

Alpharetta Arts Streetfest will feature more than 95 artists from across the U.S. Festival goers can stroll through the outdoor gallery, meet the artists and acquire a piece of original whimsical art. Artists featured represent a wide variety of mediums including mixed media, photography, pottery, jewelry, textiles, glass, wood, metal and paper art.

Saturday & Sunday | 10am-6pm Monday | 10am-5pm Downtown Alpharetta www.chestateeartists.org

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Georgia Movies In The Park

Kung Fu Panda 3 Presented by Northside Hospital, Chill Hill and Southern Outdoor. Bring a lawn chair, and bug spray. Movie start times are kid-friendly and begin at sundown not dark.

This is Atlanta’s only outdoor movie series that starts before dark.

The Chill Hill 5860 South Vickery Street | Cumming GA www.facebook.com/GaMoviesInThePark

Alpha

Saturday | 10am-6pm & Sunday | 10am-5pm Downtown Dahlonega | www.chestateeartists.org

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Roswell Family Movie Series | Free

Inside Out Bring a picnic along with your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening under the stars, filled with great music, playground fun, and a family movie. Food and drinks may be purchased at the concession stand.

Movies begin at dark. Sponsored by B98.5 and Movies Under the Stars.

Riverside Park 575 Riverside Rd. | Roswell, GA www.roswellgov.com

Avalon Nights Live 6pm-8pm Unwind after a long week with live music in The Plaza every Friday presented by SKYY Vodka! Grab your friends and family and get ready to dance the night away!

May 20th: Action Jackson May 27th: Carter Rude and band Avalon 2200 Avalon Blvd. | Alpharetta, GA www.experienceavalon.com

UC D TR

FOO

KS

Suwanee JUNE 3rd

Food Truck Friday 5:30pm Food|7pm Music 330 Town Center Ave | Suwanee, GA www.suwanee.com

MA 5th • 19 JU 2nd • 9t 23rd •

Food Tru Every Th 5:00pm -

37 Old Roswell St www.awesome

Alpharetta F

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June

|2|

43rd Annual HelenAtlantic Hot Air Balloon Race | 7am-6pm

Ballooning events will be open to the public Thursday, Friday & Saturday each day providing that weather conditions are favorable. There may be opportunities to assist with inflation or join a balloon chase crew. Some balloons may be giving tethered rides or a stunning champagne flight over the mountains.

Avalon Nights Live 6pm-8pm Unwind after a long week with live music in The Plaza every Friday presented by SKYY Vodka! Grab your friends and family and get ready to dance the night away!

June 3rd: Randy Cuba June 10th: Greg Hester June 17th: Kurt Scobie June 24th: Carter Rude and band Avalon 2200 Avalon Blvd. | Alpharetta, GA www.experienceavalon.com

|3|

Cinema Under The Stars 8:45pm

Join us for our Cinema Under the Stars featuring Disney-Pixar’s Inside Out at the Buford Community Center Amphitheater.

Admission is Free.

2200 Buford Hwy NE. | Buford, GA www.bufordcommunitycenter.com

aretta

AY 9th • 26th UNE th • 16th • 30th

uck Alley Thursday - 9:00pm

t. | Alpharetta, GA ealpharetta.com

Food Truck Alley

A Wine Garden featuring guest Georgia Wineries from around the state will be presented for a fee inside the festival. This year, Three Sisters welcomes returning and new wineries. Atlanta’s Chef Kent Graham and The Field Dog Kitchens Food Truck and/or Georgia BBQ will be available for purchase during the weekends. Additionally, Georgia wines, hard cider, and Georgia beer will also be available to purchase. Music during the weekends includes the Jazz, Soul and Standards of Tommy Dean and Mike Ewbank AKA Moose & Squirrel, The Jazz Whisperer Rich Harris and others.

Admission is FREE, Wine garden & food extra. Festival Dates June 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26.

Three Sisters Vineyard | 439 Vineyard Way | Dahlonega, GA | www.threesistersvineyard.com

|4|

Helendorf River Inn 33 Munich Strasse | Helen, GA www.HelenBalloon.com

forsyth MAY 23 JUNE 20th rd

Third Monday 5:00pm -8:00pm Lanier Technical College 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd. | Cumming, GA www.forsythconferencecenter.laniertech.edu

Food Trucks n’ Forsyth

Georgia Wine Country Festival

17th Annual Flying Colors Butterfly Festival

All ages will enjoy this fun event featuring live music; entomology exhibits; arts and crafts; face painting, butterfly parades and more. Kids can wear their butterfly costumes and join the daily butterfly parades.

Food trucks will sell snacks for picnics.

Admission is $12/General Public, $8/CNC Members Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road | Roswell, GA www.chattnaturecenter.org

|4|

Youth Fishing Derby 8am-11am

The lake will be stocked with catfish so bring your night crawlers or worms to increase your chance of catching a lot of fish! Prizes will be awarded for the longest fish and the most fish caught. Children must be present at the end of the event to win prizes.

Ages 4-12 (accompianed by an adult) Cost is FREE, but pre-registration is required.

Brookside Office Park Lake 3625 Brookside Parkway | Alpharetta, GA www.awesomealpharetta.com

|4|

Red Oak Lavender Farm Festival | 10am-5pm

This is a once a year affair where we open up the lavender fields to cut your own lavender bundles, participate in making lavender wands or halos, listen to the Faires Musicans playing live music with harp and other instruments and watch the Mountain HandSpinners Guild demonstrating how to spin wool.

Red Oak Lavender Farm 2882 Red Oak Flats Rd. | Dahlonega, GA www.redoaklavender.com

| 10 |

Movie Under The Stars 6pm

Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip Presented by Chestatee Regional Hospital, kick off your Friday evenings with activities the kids will love, like coloring and free giveaways. Concessions Available. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lowback lawn chairs.

Hancock Park N. Meaders St. & Warwick St. | Dahlonega, GA www.dahlonega.org

| 11 |

Roswell Lavender Festival | 10am-5pm

6th Annual Roswell Lavender Festival, inspired by Barrington Hall’s own lavender queen, Evelyn Simpson, a descendant of Barrington. The festival is a celebration of all things lavender and will feature the many varieties, uses, and folk remedies associated with this ancient plant. Admission is FREE. Barrington Hall 535 Barrington Dr. | Roswell, GA www.roswellgov.com

| 14 & 28 |

Georgia Movies In The Park

6/14: Star Wars: The Force Awakens 6/28: Alivin & the Chipmunks: The Road Chip Presented by Northside Hospital, Chill Hill and Southern Outdoor. Bring a lawn chair, and bug spray - movie start times are kid-friendly and begin at sundown not dark. This is Atlanta’s only outdoor movie series that starts before dark.

The Chill Hill 5860 South Vickery Street | Cumming GA www.facebook.com/GaMoviesInThePark

| 18 |

Cabbage Patch

Tea Party

Enjoy a tea party with the Cabbage Patch Kids in BabyLand’s beautiful Summer Garden. Reservations required. Cost is $15.

BabyLand General Hospital 300 N.O.K. Dr. | Cleveland, GA www.babylandgeneral.com

Kitchen Table

B h fo

By

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May | June 2016

Lanier Place

Business offers fresh, home-cooked meals or people on the go.

y Adlen Robinson

Lanier Place, our senior living community, is known for being warm, inviting, and active. We develop individual care plans to meet the needs of each resident, and a full-time registered nurse is available 24 hours a day to provide clinical oversight and coordination of care.

Our residents engage in a variety of activities, such as tai chi, bingo, pool, cards and board games, and yoga. We also offer four church services per week, weekly performances by musical groups, and shopping, dining, and entertainment outings. For senior living in Cumming, Georgia, schedule a visit at Lanier Place today.

Care Levels Personal Care • Alzheimer’s, dementia & memory care Respite Care • Short-Term Stay • Urgent Placement

For more information or to schedule a tour Call (770) 888-1114 440 Tribble Gap Road|Cumming, GA30040 | www.enlivant.com

May | June 2016

m North Atlanta Magazine 21

Growing together and depending on each other.

T

here is a new lunch spot in town and they are serving up way more than just soups, salads and sandwiches. The Kitchen Table, in the shopping center just outside of Creekstone Estates off Peachtree Parkway, is the brainchild of owner and headmaster of the kitchen Tara Newton.

“With a full-time job and two young children, we found ourselves running around all of the time and family dinner at the table was something we almost never did,” said Newton. “I looked at my kitchen table and all I saw were computers, papers, etc. It didn’t have anything to do with eating dinner.”

Newton said she felt so much guilt about feeding her family fast food, but there just wasn’t time to cook due to her children’s activities and their busy schedules.

Newton said she thought about how much help it would be for families if they could pick up a freshly made from scratch dinner and serve that to their family.

“I grew up in south Georgia eating real food that was lovingly prepared by my parents and grandparents. That is what I wanted to offer others.”

She said she has always loved to cook and is most at home in the kitchen.

Customers can go online and look at the weekly menu, which is posted on Friday for the upcoming week. After pre-ordering, customers pick up their homecooked dinner between 3 and 7 p.m., before heading home to enjoy a made-from-scratch meal. Each dinner includes an entrée, two sides and rolls. For an additional fee customers can add salad or soup.

Newton said many of her customers are moms with busy lives who just need a little help, but she said many customers are also older people.

“Many of our customers are empty nesters who just don’t want to cook that much anymore.”

Newton said they also cater to senior citizens who want a home-cooked meal.

22 m North Atlanta Magazine

May | June 2016

photos by Micah Green

Tara Newton is the owner and headmaster of The Kitchen Table off Peachtree Parkway.

“One of our customers buys our soups in individual containers and stocks his elderly mother’s freezer with them.”

A recent weekly menu included sliced turkey, lasagna, pork loin with cornbread stuffing, caprese chicken, pot roast, breaded lemon chicken and enchiladas.

For more information, visit www.gotokitchentable. com.

May | June 2016

m North Atlanta Magazine 23

On the town

Date night S

ometimes the best restaurants are in the most unlikely places.

Enter Baba’s Gyro & Kabob on Ronald Reagan Boulevard. Don’t let the fact that the restaurant is right next to a service station deter you. If you go at lunchtime, go early since parking can be a challenge when the place is full — and it routinely is during the lunch rush. You can expect all of your Greek favorites, including falafel, hummus, dolmatos, baba ganoush, and of course, gyros. They also have things you might not expect such as flatbreads, wraps, paninis and a lot of kabob choices.

There are also plenty of vegetarian options. The food is cooked to order and you get the feeling it is lovingly prepared. This off the beaten path place is truly worth seeking out.

By Adlen W. Robinson

Baba’s Gyro & Kabob 2310 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming

Locally owned and operated

(470) 253-7376

5960 Bethelview Road | Cumming, GA 30040 (Just off Exit 13 on GA400) Monday - Friday: 7am - 6pm | Saturday & Sunday: Closed

ChristianBrothersAuto.com/Cumming

Must be presented at time of service. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit.

Valid at the Cumming Location only.

Expires 7/1/16

Standard Oil Change

Any Fluid Service

(excludes synthetic oil and up to 5 qts. for most vehicles)

Cooling • Power Steering • Transmission • Differential

Must be presented at time of service. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit.

Valid at the Cumming Location only.

Expires 7/1/16

Must be presented at time of service. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit.

Valid at the Cumming Location only.

Expires 7/1/16

Must be presented at time of service. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit.

Valid at the Cumming Location only.

Expires 7/1/16

Complete automotive repair | Service all makes and models | Best in class 2 year / 24,000 mile warranty Dealer alternative - same tools and equipment | Free local courtesy shuttle service to work or home

24 m North Atlanta Magazine

May | June 2016

H

ave you ever been on a quest to find the best pizza in Atlanta? Well I have and I can tell you where it is — Antico Pizza Napoletana at Avalon in Alpharetta. There is also a location, Antico Pizza on Hemphill Avenue in Atlanta, but why fight the traffic when Alpharetta’s location is just as good?

The menu is short — but you cannot go wrong with anything on it. The pizza is cooked in wood fire ovens and it comes out piping hot — taking mere minutes to achieve that perfect, slightly charred crust. The dough is made fresh daily and all of the ingredients are super fresh.

The place is casual, providing self seating on picnic style tables.

Paper towels serve as plates, which might sound strange — trust me, once you take a bite, you won’t mind at all. Just close your eyes and you will be transported to Naples, Italy.

Antico Pizza Napoletana 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta

Z

est Sushi & Tapas Bar on Canton Street is a great reason to make the trek to Roswell. While sushi and tapas might seem like an unlikely pairing, it totally works here. Order a few tapas to share — the Lamb Lollipops, Kobe meat balls or the Pan Asian baby back ribs, and then move on to the lengthy sushi menu. The specialty rolls are to die for. There are also soups and salads and a terrific cocktail menu.

Zest Sushi & Tapas Bar 957 Canton Street, Roswell

May | June 2016

m North Atlanta Magazine 25

Wines for warmer weather

By Adlen W. Robinson

S

ummer is just around the corner and that means more time on the deck and patio and spending time lounging around the pool or the lake. Unless you are a beer drinker, chances are you reach for a cool glass of white wine.

Whether you like Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Pinot Grigio or a nice RosĂŠ, why not add some fruit and apple liquor and make a festive white wine sangria?

This is not only delicious and refreshing, but also looks beautiful in a glass. Just make sure you make it the night before or morning of when you plan on serving so the fruit has time to infuse the wine. Enjoy!

White Wine Sangria 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 cup apple liquor, such as Calvados 1 lime, sliced 1 lemon, sliced 1 peach, cut in wedges 2 Granny Smith apples, cut into wedges 1/2 cup green grapes, sliced 1 bottle dry white wine 1 pint raspberries Sparkling soda water, chilled In a glass pitcher, combine sugar, apple liquor, lime slices, lemon slices, peaches, apple slices, grapes and white wine. Stir and then cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. To serve, pour sangria into wine glass and top with a few raspberries and top off with some sparkling soda water.

26 m North Atlanta Magazine

May | June 2016

THANK YOU FOR

Voting us Best

Roofing Contractor BEST OF FORSYTH 2016

Free Roof Inspection Call today!

678-771-5372

We would like to thank Forsyth County for the trust and confidence you have placed in us. We would not be in business at all without an abundance of satisfied customers who are willing to tell others about the positive experience that they had with our company. We know that if we deal with our customers and with their insurance companies honestly and openly and keep up with latest developments in the industry, the long-term benefits of current and future customers will be tangible.

• Better Business Bureau rates Hopewell Roofing A+ • GAF Triple Excellence Award Winner • Hopewell Roofing is a Super Service Award Winner from Angie’s List • Hopewell Roofing is a proud member of the NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) • Hopewell Roofing is a GAF Master Elite Certified Contractor and a CertainTeed Select Shingle Master, which allows us to provide customers with the ultimate roofing systems and the longest warranty periods available in the roofing industry.

• Hopewell Roofing is family-owned and operated small business in Forsyth County that has consistently grown its customer base year after year in large part by word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers.

www.hopewell-roofing.com

City at a glance

Woodstock

By Sydney Robinson

R

ecently, I went to Woodstock with a client to do some research for her new company. Lucky for me she was on board with making it a “Friday fun day” to explore a new city we were both unfamiliar with. With more than 30 locally-owned shops and a quaint sense of Southern charm, this town is worth the trip.

One of my favorite things about the town is the perfect

combination of old and new. The pedestrian-friendly environment allows you to walk all over the downtown area and take in the historic buildings, shops and restaurants. In addition, the town has an open-container policy, so feel free to enjoy an adult beverage while touring.

If you have never been to Woodstock or it has been a while, definitely check it out!

Freight Kitchen & Tap 251 E Main Street, Woodstock Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

O

ur first stop of the day was lunch — food first, right? We ate at Freight, a kitchen and tap room I researched before our arrival. Freight has an interesting history, with a rustic interior and exterior and dedication to sourcing the food locally. The food is delicious with a great libations menu and the restaurant is located right on the side of the railroad tracks (still a working railroad) with an old train caboose located in the back of the restaurant — great for family photo ops! Visit freightkitchen.com

Branches Boutique 370 Chambers Street, Woodstock Hours: Mon.- Thurs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday noon to 6 p.m.

O

ur next venture after wining and dining ourselves was to shop in the adorable boutiques and gift shops. I love to check out new boutiques that have a variety of unique fashions that you cannot find anywhere else. Walking into Branches Boutique on Chambers Street was like love at first site. Being a big boutique shopper myself, I really haven’t seen anything like it and loved all of their trendy bohemian styles for this spring and summer. In addition, they have a decent price point. Be You On Purpose boutique was another one just down from Branches that is a must for girls who are pre-teens to college. It is a one-stop-shop for gifts for friends, daughters or granddaughters with an adorable selection of handbags, dresses, shirts and other items.

Metamodern Music 8600 Main Street, Woodstock Hours: Mon.-Thurs. noon to 8 p.m., Fri.- Sat. noon to 9 p.m., Sunday 12:30 to 6 p.m.

O

ne of my favorite parts of the downtown area we just happened to stumble upon was Metamodern Music, a record store with new and used vinyl with an awesome collection of records from Dylan to Beyonce. The shop is very retro looking with a comfortable vibe and the best part? There is a bar in the back with local craft beer. I repeat. Tunes and brews.

Truck and Tap 8640 Main Street, Woodstock Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

A

lthough we had eaten, we stopped in our tracks when we saw the back side of Truck and Tap. A colorful eatery with a big blue food truck parked in the back surrounded by cute patio tables and chairs. We walked inside and learned the restaurant is a new concept. It has a daily rotating food truck schedule from some of the best food trucks in metro Atlanta. Inside, there are plenty of craft beers as well as bottled domestic beers. Lobster Rolls, Loaded Burger’s, barbecue, Binh Mi Sandwiches are just some of the different food varieties you can expect from the rotating line up of food trucks. Check out the schedule online at truckandtap.com.

Copper Coin Coffee 400 Chambers Street, Woodstock Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

T

o end the day with a bang, and a much needed kick of caffeine, we stopped at the spot for coffeeobsessors like myself, Copper Coin Coffee. Owned by the same folks who recently took over Cup Bearer Coffee at Vickery Village in Cumming, this place is a must visit. The coffee shop is rustic and eclectic with unique art hung on the walls made by local artists. The coffee is superb. It’s a great spot for studying or meetings or sitting outside and taking in the hustle and bustle of downtown. Visit coppercoincoffee.com.

The first Friday of the month, downtown Woodstock offers Friday Night Live. There is live music with bands playing outside in front of the stores — adding to a street festival feel. The restaurants and stores stay open late, 6-9 p.m. There is a different theme for each event.

You really feel like you are getting away.

Take better photos this season Take your time.

Make sure you know what you’re photographing. Go into each photo with an idea of what you’re trying to capture, rather than just shooting from the hip. Bring the camera to your eye, take in the scene, and shoot.

Don’t try to fight the sun.

Even though, to the human eye, it may seem like midday sun gives off plenty of light to take a photo, it’s not always the most camera friendly. Try shooting in some kind of diffused light, or even directly in the shadows. You’ll see the light is a lot more even.

Try different angles.

Get down on your stomach, stand on a chair (but be careful!) and shoot through the crowds.

Whatever you can do to get a unique perspective, try it!

What’s the worst that could happen?

Keep it candid.

Though I know it’s tempting to want to control your subjects, it’s the candid moments that can capture the most.

Just let things happen and you’ll see those natural moments can be much more beautiful. Not to mention, these images can capture emotion in a way that can spur memories in a more intimate way.

30 m North Atlanta Magazine

By Micah Green

Put the camera down.

Instead of holding onto your camera all day long and trying to capture every moment, be deliberate in your photography. Take a few minutes worth of shots and put your camera down. It is summer after all. The moments are going to happen whether you’re there to catch them or not. Take it in.

May | June 2016

8/1/16

8/1/16

8/1/16

We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care.

Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people choose Northside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care.

Visit us online at www.northside.com