Alpharetta, GA August 2023

A Kid's Paradise

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Emory Johns Creek Hospital is committed to our community.

We’ve added two floors to the hospital, three floors to the Physicians Plaza and a parking deck, all to better serve you and your family. The new areas provide physicians, nurses and our care teams an interdisciplinary space to focus on family-centered care and ongoing wellness, supporting you with the unparalleled service and knowledgeable professionals you’ve come to expect.

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Trifecta Home Furniture is an exciting and unique monthly shopping experience FURNITURE EVENTS (404) 369-7699 trifectahomefurniture.com Alpharetta • Buford • Marietta • Jacksonville • 30A

Hello friends,

A few weeks before school started, my mother would take me shopping for clothes and shoes. One year, it was a matching plaid jumper and pants. In fifth grade, the pinnacle of my tomboy phase, I scored a pair of corduroy pants and a half-zip mock turtleneck. The zipper had a big ring pull and I thought I was so groovy. In high school, it was all about the jeans and the hair.

My kids loved shopping for school supplies, lists in hand. We put the label maker through the wringer and faced the new school year with a sheen of organization and enthusiasm.

To all the families adjusting to new schedules and earlier bedtimes, we wish you luck and send good vibes for plenty of patience.

We hope you enjoy this issue, dedicated to students, families, teachers, and administrators who all have one goal in mind: to engage and challenge children and help our community’s next generation thrive.

Have a great August.

All my best,

SUE COLLINS, EDITOR @ALPHARETTACITYLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde | stacy.conde@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Valerie Shepherd, Stacy Conde, Sean O'Keefe

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stacy Conde, Liz Erikson, Sean O'Keefe

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Guven Brothers Fine Jewelry is a family owned and operated business located in the heart of Alpharetta with over 20 years experience in the jewelry industry. Our priority is to offer exceptional customer service and high quality selections from engagement rings, wedding bands, timepieces, to high-end fashion jewelry for every occasion in your life.

Come and visit our family and allow us to provide you the gemstones for all the milestones in your life.

GUVENBROTHERSFINEJEWELRY.COM

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @alpharettacitylifestyle

2: Cheers to friends at Terrazza's Bar and Grill, 10900 Medlock Bridge Rd 3: Owner of Archadeck, Mark Salazar, enjoys the July feature on his business and his family. 4: An explosive, high-energy boxing and strength workout designed for all levels. 5: Kitchen Solvers of Alpharetta shares free cotton candy with Richland Waves swim team. 6: Rumble Boxing FTW

Dog’s Delight

TomorrowTurf is excited to announce that they have launched to pet owners in the Atlanta area! TomorrowTurf is a real grass potty-pad that can go on your balcony or even inside your home for extra convenience. The team comes and sets up your grass and tray, and disposes of the used grass for you. It’s never been easier to spoil your dog. Spoil your pup, and let TomorrowTurf spoil you. TomorrowTurf.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Alpharetta

Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Conference

Senior 911’s first annual Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Conference was a complete success. “God has put His blessing on us in such a way that no one can deny that we are truly living in our purpose and touching lives,” says Sonja Gunter, nurse administrator. She is grateful for the entire team who assisted in putting this together and to everyone who participated.

A KID'S PARADISE

As the sweltering Georgia sun continues its reign into the later months of summer, the desire to step out the backdoor into a saltwater spa becomes less of a want and more of a need. Thankfully, this local, third-generation pool company is ready to step in.

Reinvent Your Backyard Oasis

ARTICLE BY CATHY JAMES

With a 20-year legacy and countless award-winning designs, Georgia Luxury Pools (GLP) is amid some of its busiest days of dreaming, designing and bringing backyard pool visions to life. At the company’s helm, David Brown uses skills he’s developed during his lifetime of building pools to bring thoughtful, practical and “better built” luxury poolscapes to backyards across Georgia.

“For me, creating a space where couples can entertain their friends and see the smiles on their kids’ faces as they enjoy their backyard motivates me,” explains David. “It’s more than just a job. It’s helping to build family memories for a lifetime.”

Through a longstanding partnership with landscaper Patrick Ferguson, GLP provides the initial landscaping and the pool design and assembly under the same name. David and Patrick ensure timelines are in sync, designs are practical, and their teams stay in the know without any responsibility falling on the homeowner.

Georgia Luxury Pools has worked in partnership with Patrick and his team at Southern Landscape and Designs for five years. With over 30 years of experience, an impressive assemblage of Best Design awards and credit for landscaping all of the 1996 Olympic venues, Patrick is a trusted and well-respected partner to the GLP team. In 2016, after years of schooling and traveling

the country under esteemed landscapers, Patrick started his own business styling modern and Southern-inspired landscapes for businesses and residents across the state.

GET INSPIRED

Find inspiration for your future pool in GLP’s astonishing recent project, new technology and this summer’s new and emerging pool trends.

THE RENO POOL

This gorgeous property, complete with amazing landscaping, a bathroom house, an outdoor kitchen and a fireplace, is one of GLP’s most recent builds. The team updated the pool with a tan ledge entry and a stone spillover spa. They then filled in the pool’s deep end, making way for a swim-up bar and bar seating.

The pool is heated and has an easy-to-use auto cover, allowing for year-round use. Plus, the residents included a putting green off to the side for endless fun, even after pool time has ended!

NEW TECHNOLOGY

Georgia Luxury Pools is rolling out a few new pool technologies to make living even easier this summer. The most exciting of these is cost and energy-effective low-voltage lighting. Equipped with LED technology, pool owners can choose from 30 colors and seven light shows, turning late-night pool parties into raves.

Pool owners can also trade out their old pumps with a new variable speed pump, reducing fossil fuel usage and emitting less CO2. In turn, it cuts energy costs and keeps pool water even cleaner. GLP can implement these new features in new or current pools.

EMERGING TRENDS

DIPPING AND PLUNGE POOLS - Dipping pools are compact, have a shallow depth and are heated, while plunge pools are also compact, but include shallow and deep ends.

TANNING LEDGES - These ledges are an extension of the pool, covered by just a few inches of water. Paired with ledge loungers (pool recliners), these ledges allow for keeping cool while tanning.

SWIM-UP BARS - Swim-up bars create a space for cocktail sipping while swimming and are a perfect addition to any pool party.

GALuxuryPools.com

Pet-Sized Pieces

for home decor

ARTICLE BY STACY CONDE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

1. JONATHAN ADLER VICE WOOF CANISTER $130 High-fired porcelain canister, hand-painted with a rich color finish. JonathanAdler.com // 2. MID-CENTURY MODERN DOGGIE DAY BED $540 Fits right in with human-sized decor. Wood frame and water resistant cushion covers. CrateAndBarrel.com // 3. FABLE’S DOG CRATE AND SIDE TABLE IN ONE from $495 It’s a dog crate... it’s a side table... it’s a crate-side-table! This chic bentwood crate in two finishes - signature or limited-edition walnut - is nearly undetectable as a pet cave.  FablePets.com // 4. TANGERINE CAT SCRATCHING BALL $59.99 It’s hard to disguise a scratching post, so let it stand out! A super sized ball wrapped in bright orange jute makes for a statement scratcher.  VetreskaNYC.com // 5. MAU CAT TREE $259 A cat tree for your neutral, organic home space. Hand woven basket and real tree branch. MauPets.com

Where Artistry Meets Innovation

WHY WE LOVE PETS

Meg was adopted from FurKids and is quite a character. She can “talk” your ear off when she isn’t napping on the couch. Meg is a very sweet girl and enjoys playing with her stuffed toys. Karla Wilkinson, administrative director, Alpharetta City Lifestyle

Rosie is a 7-year-old Morkie. Whenever she thinks we are going somewhere (especially if you put a bag or piece of luggage by the door) she spins around and around and jumps on her travel crate with this “Where are we going...take me!” look on her face. David

Brown, owner, Georgia Luxury Pools

ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

Johnny was born in our home 11 years ago, his mother was an adopted feral who soon thereafter took off. Tommy was a stray at our vet’s office 6 years ago and has been the king of the castle ever since. They are as annoying as they are photogenic. Sue Collins, editor, Alpharetta City Lifestyle

Mocha is a 3-year-old rescue mix of lab, pointer and hound. After every meal Mocha will come up and paw you until you take a ball from the cabinet and play chase around the family room table. Karyn Slovin, senior advertising manager, Johns Creek City Lifestyle

// Meg // Rosie and David

Buster’s story is a winding tale. In January 2015, our family was regrouping after recently losing my father to pancreatic cancer after a nearly 4 years of treatment. It was a very difficult time. My youngest son Brady (9 at the time) had been begging to get a dog for years, but my older son Ryan, who has special needs, was terrified of animals and especially dogs. On the MLK holiday, the boys and I drove into our driveway and discovered a large tub with a note on top. I got out of the car to investigate and a tiny creature flew past me, jumping out of the tub and running down the street. The note

was an adoption request. We followed our future pet to the neighborhood park, carrying a purse strap that was left for a leash in the tub. Once we secured the dog, Ryan got down on all fours, looked straight into the dog’s eyes and said, “Keep him,” matter-of-factly. Ryan was far too anxious to get close to a dog at the time and really disliked getting close to animals’ faces. He also had very limited verbal abilities. The interaction and his assessment were a small miracle. We changed his name from Buddy to Buster, Brady (and the whole family) finally got a loving pet and Ryan got a vigilant companion who

// Johnny and Tommy // Mocha and Karyn

believes he is responsible for Ryan’s safety. He has had the temperament of a service dog from the first day we had him and he restored joy to our home when we desperately needed it. It has been 8 1/2 years now. Buster’s

cardiologist says he is likely 10-15 years old. He continues to be the very best boy and we firmly believe he was sent by my dad with a very specific assignment, to protect and love us. Superior Court Judge Rachelle Carnesal

// Buster

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PAMPERING YOUR SUMMER SKIN

In today’s fast-paced world, both my summer skin and my friends decided we needed a break from our hectic schedules to indulge in the local med spa we had all been hearing about. With relaxation, advanced skincare, and bonding during our girlfriends’ day out as our priorities (oh, and to be kid free!), we decided there was no better way to rejuvenate both our skin and our souls from the non-stop of the past few months than treating ourselves to a specialty facial treatment.

A WARM AND WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT:

As we stepped into the Alpha Lan Med Spa, I could literally feel the stress melting away as we were greeted by a serene ambiance that instantly made us feel like we were a world away. Music played in the background as we sat with Lan and discussed our skin treatment plans: a zero down-time Zo Skin Health facial peel for me, PiXel8 RF microneedling for one of my friends, and the first Ultherapy treatment in a series for my other girlfriend. The knowledgeable and friendly technicians welcomed us and guided us through the process, ensuring we felt comfortable and well-informed about the treatments we were about to receive.

READY, SET, REFRESH:

Reassured, knowing that our facial treatments were tailored to address our specific concerns, we were ready and set to refresh! As we were led into private and tranquil rooms for our specific treatments, it was impressive to see the advanced equipment alongside the plush comfortable bed. Soft lighting and soothing music added to the overall “ahhhh,” as Lan and one of her top estheticians began the peel by thoroughly cleansing my skin and gently removing any impurities and makeup residue.

ABSOLUTE RADIANCE:

ARTICLE BY VALERIE SHEPHERD

The Zo Skin Health line is known globally, and I was thrilled to hear that Alpha Lan Med Spa carried such innovative products and offered their facials and peels. I now know with certainty why women rave about about the no downtime and turn-backthe-clock results. It was as if Lan and her esthetician skillfully performed magic on my face, instantaneously revealing radiant skin that I hadn’t seen in months... okay, who am I kidding - years! I couldn’t believe the immediate difference it made to both my skin and my mood.

The warm and welcoming environment at Alpha Lan Med Spa has been open for 4 years. From experienced medical aestheticians to licensed medical professionals, the highly trained and skilled team provides an elevated experience.

ALPHA LAN MED SPA - JOHNS CREEK ALPHALANMEDSPAGA.COM 678.587.5575

ALPHA LAN MED SPA - THE LOCAL RECHARGE EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

THE PERFECT ENVIRONMENT:

When my friends came out of their rooms looking relaxed and refreshed, we took a little time to relax, unwind, read a few magazines and enjoy each other’s company in the med spa’s cozy environment. We loved hearing more about Lan’s mission as a local female business owner: to offer the most cutting edge and high end services available in the market, right here in Johns Creek. There’s a reason why the spa’s schedules are full and women keep coming back. It’s because of the elevated and personable care she and her team give to you as well as all of your skin and health care needs.

FEELING REJUVENATED ON THE INSIDE AND OUT:

Safe, effective, luxurious, priced right and refreshing were the words my friends and I used while booking our next appointments. Our girlfriends’ day out to the med spa for facials, peels and exclusive procedures was an absolute treat for the senses and a much-needed break as these moms head into the upcoming school year. No longer a secret, we’ll be back to this local skin care heaven for more treatments soon!

With access to the latest advancements, they’re passionate about helping clients look and feel their best while providing the most effective and innovative treatments available.

MEET LAN:

A female business owner, renowned  skin care expert with over 10 years of experience, and your local neighbor. Lan opened Alpha Lan Med Spa to bring new, cutting edge technology to Johns Creek and surrounding communities. She's known for her immaculate skin, infectious smile and ensuring clients receive advanced services that result in a visible difference.

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accrue for the first six months (Promotional Period), and you will not be required to make payments during the Promotional Period. If you pay the entire amount financed on or before the last day of the Promotional Period (Promotional Expiration Date), you will not have to pay any Finance Charges. However, if you qualify and elect to participate in the Promotion and do not pay the entire amount financed on or before the Promotion Expiration Date, you will be charged Finance Charges starting the first day after the Promotion Expiration Date at an annual percentage rate (APR) of 8.99%, and the balance will be payable in 120 scheduled monthly payments of $12.60 per $1,000 of the amount financed. No prepayment penalties. Minimum and maximum amount financed of $3,000 and $100,000, respectively. Late charges may apply. Complete terms and conditions and Truth in Lending disclosures will be set forth in the Retail Installment Contract which you should review carefully. ©2023 Lennox Dealers are independently owned and operated businesses.

Private school round-up

Woodward Academy

TIME TO LEARN AND EXPLORE IN ALPHARETTA

ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

LEARNWELL NORTH GEORGIA HYBRID SCHOOL, ALPHARETTA

LearnWellCollective.org

Principal: Dr. Melissa Shipman

Small class sizes: 10-15 max, serving grades K-9 in 2023-24

They have hired new teachers for their middle and high school programs. The school is growing and now serves through ninth grade -- adding a grade every year until they reach K-12 in 2026-2027. Learnwell also has a flourishing school garden, and students raised $3,000 for a clean water nonprofit, Water Is Basic, to repair three wells in South Sudan.

THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

11855 Jones Bridge Rd. Alpharetta

TheLearningExperience.com

Center Director: Jennifer Moultrie

The proprietary L.E.A.P (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum encourages children to learn in their favorite way: by exploring and doing. They achieve success independently while developing intellectually, socially and cognitively through varied early educational materials, activities and social interactions.

At TLE, families will find a full cast of characters that become your child’s educators, partners and friends through the preschool education journey. Each character has a unique personality and area of interest. The main character is “Bubbles” the elephant.

WOODWARD ACADEMY

Main Campus: Pre-K to 12 1662 Rugby Avenue, College Park  North Campus: Pre-K to 6 6565 Boles Road Johns Creek

Total Enrollment: 2,655 Woodward.edu

President: F. Stuart Gulley, Ph.D.

Mrs. Viji Namburar, the recently named Principal of Woodward North, has deep roots at the school and in the community it serves. Mrs. Namburar came to Woodward North in 2002. She has served as a pre-kindergarten, first, and second grade lead teacher, and for the last four years was the school’s assistant principal. Her love, dedication, and devotion to Woodward North is steadfast. And while she is fiercely committed to continuing the “magical” experience at Woodward North, she brings new ideas to the principalship, including adding a debate team; creating a greenhouse as an alternative learning space and to teach students about sustainability; advancing the “Girls Who Code” initiative; and incorporating SEE (social-emotional-ethical) learning throughout the curriculum. Additionally, Mrs. Namburar will continue to reach beyond the walls of Woodward North to bring experts from various fields into the classrooms, providing students with real-life learning experiences and opportunities.

Mrs. Jean Armstrong is Woodward North’s new assistant principal. She comes to Woodward with more than 27 years of experience as an educator, most recently at Northview High School. At Northview,

Learnwell North Georgia Hybrid School

she served as the English department chair of Northview’s magnet program, 3DE Leadership Academy, as well as a lead English teacher and instructional coach for the program.

Over the course of her career, Mrs. Armstrong has worked as a teacher and curriculum developer in both primary and secondary institutions in South Korea, New York, Arkansas, and Alabama. She shares, “I am especially passionate about helping students become the best versions of themselves that they can be.” She brings extensive experience in curriculum development and adaptive teaching methods, and evinces a deep-rooted passion for education.

IVY KIDS OF JOHNS CREEK

9970 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek

Brand new early learning center now enrolling children aged 6 weeks to Pre-K and after school programs. IvyKids.com/listing/Ivy-Kids-Of-Johns-Creek

Center Director: Susie Tran

Education Director: Priscila Eugenio Lopez

Ivy Kids is excited to embark on a learning adventure at the new preschool. Using the innovative approach of multiple intelligences, they engage all students in active learning. “We look forward to creating memories from hands-on learning activities to fun playtime on our playgrounds. Experience the joy and excitement as children explore, create, and learn. Join us on this thrilling journey of discovery and enroll now to be a part of the Ivy Kids experience,” says Center Director, Susie Tran.

Learnwell North Georgia Hybrid School

Amish Woodworker Meet and Greet

AUGUST 19 1-3 PM UP TO 25% OFF FURNITURE

Amish and American Made Furniture, Décor & Accessories

Showroom and Design Center 160 N. Main Street, Alpharetta 678.436.5308 | dutchcrafters.com

Chef Megan Brent is Tasting Success!

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ ERIKSON AND SEAN O'KEEFE

The conversation between Chef Megan Brent and me began as most great conversations do.

“Tell me about yourself,” I asked. “Tell me about your journey.”

To be honest, I have watched Chef Megan Brent’s culinary career evolve over the last decade. From Baked Alaska to stroopwafels, I have marveled at her tenacity, raw talent, bold individualism, and sheer strength. She has baked some of the finest cakes and cookies imaginable, yet, she exerts an easy mastery over the savory palate. She is both art and artist, her canvas is the plate.

Meg shared with me that her culinary journey all began at the end of her sophomore year. At that time she didn’t have the most positive relationship with food. For Meg, at that point in her life, food was her enemy.

“After hitting rock bottom at 75 lbs and being severely malnourished, I began treatment for my eating disorder,” revealed Meg during our interview and photoshoot. Meg’s doctor had her begin a food journal and start cooking meals at home as a means to learn healthier coping strategies and help mend her broken relationship with food.

Firebird Korean fire-glazed grilled chicken breast, hobo slaw, chow chow, crispy onion straws, chili crisp, sweet & spicy pickle slices, toasted potato bun

Sean O’Keefe Photo

“I developed a deep appreciation and adoration for food and food culture,” says Meg. “Through this exercise, I became mentally and physically healthier.”  Meg’s recovery journey fueled her passion and desire to become a chef and set her on the path of culinary greatness!

Overcoming her eating disorder was just one of the hurdles that Meg faced in her pursuit of that culinary dream. “As a woman in this industry, it was obviously tough to be seen and heard,” says Meg. “I had to work more efficiently, learn faster, and become a more dynamic chef to get my seat at the table.” Currently, Meg is fostering an environment of support and guidance by drawing on her life experiences, which help her to become a better listener and leader. Her desire for a role in the beer world and restaurant industry that promotes managerial support and guidance, employee support, structure, creativity, and inclusivity led her to the position of culinary director for Hop City’s Boxcar and Barley Garden Restaurants. It is her perfect playground.

Over the years, Meg began a deeper exploration of cooking with seasonality. She developed relationships with local farmers to source more sustainable ingredients. “Seasonality is important in many ways,” says Meg. “When produce is grown and harvested in the proper agricultural zones and time period, it has the best quality and flavor.” Both Boxcar and Barley Gardens institute a menu that revolves around the four seasons as much as possible. Produce from local agribusinesses such as Tucker Farms or Zoe George Farms not only graces the menus at Barley Gardens and Boxcar, but has also acted as inspiration for Meg’s culinary genius - literally feeding her need for creativity and development.

Meg’s family loves it when she does recipe testing at home and they get to be the guinea pigs, but she does try to keep a good work-life balance. “I will say it’s incredibly tough in this industry. I am one of those people who tends to overdo it and go all in with anything I do.” Family is paramount and her family certainly helps her stay grounded in the hustle and bustle of the restaurant industry.

Taking a bite out of success.

Seasoned fries with an assortment of house-made dipping sauces.

More time at home fuels Meg’s creativity. It has helped her become a better functioning leader for the staff and it also empowers her to ensure everyone has time for their life. “I’m proud that I work for a company that promotes a healthy work-life balance as a priority in the workplace,” says Meg. With a resoundingly positive attitude, it is no wonder that her mantra of “One Team. One Dream. Everyone is heard” has helped to pave the way for her success!

When not working, Meg can be found cycling on the Silver Comet Trail with her boyfriend, thrift store shopping, or binge-watching the

original Star Trek TV series while enjoying a Freigeist Bierkultur’s Geisterburg Rhubarb Gose brewed with spruce needles. When time permits, Meg does love to cook at home. “My boyfriend loves fish, so usually I do an herb-crusted grouper with fresh vegetables from our garden.”

Whether enjoying the Barley Garden’s signature Firebird Sandwich or dining on the braised short rib at Boxcar, you can certainly taste Meg’s passion for food and flavor. Meg Brent’s star is continuing to rise over the Atlanta culinary scene and I am very much looking forward to tasting the next decade of my friend’s illustrious career.

ARTICLE BY KARYN SLOVIN

What Happens in Destin...

Stays in Destin

What to do when you have six girlfriends trying to get away from the stress of their every day lives, get a little sun and have a little fun with their besties? Head to Destin and stay in a fabulous, fully-equipped house at the beach!

Thanks to the helpful staff at Newman-Dailey Resort Properties we were able to select a beach house that gave us all the amenities we wanted and was a block away from the beach. After some fun planning, before you knew it, we happily arrived at the Blue Starfish in Crystal Beach with our toes in the sand.

The Blue Starfish is three stories of welcoming, well-decorated rooms, with a fantastic kitchen and dining area. Each of the four main bedrooms has its own balcony and there is a great room with

four bunks - good for kids and adults. Although we had a total of six, it would have comfortably slept several more people. The heated pool and spillover spa were much needed for our relaxation, along with the custom-built wet bar on the back deck for all the fruity drinks we made and consumed. One of our favorite perks was the golf cart, which held all of us and was great to cart all of our stuff to the beach.

We culminated our stay with a special dinner curated by The Enchanting Picnic Co., who set up a magical dinner table theme and brought appetizers and salads from a local shop. Normally the owner can schedule special themed picnics on the beach, but rain was in the forecast that evening, so she easily pivoted and we had dinner at the beach house.

After singing karaoke at the top of our lungs, lots of sun at the beach and the pool, some crazy games during the rainy day and other fun antics, my besties and I returned home well-rested and ready to return to the Blue Starfish again.

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties

DestinVacation.com

800.225.7652

The Enchanting Picnic Co.  EnchantingPicnicCompany.com

850.543.4585

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Carotid Disease

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Cattle Shed offers a chef curated dining experience, highlighting some fresh seasonal ingredients from local and regional growers when available, hand cut USDA Prime and Premium cut steaks, fresh seafood and artisan cheeses & meats. We take the same care with our wine and cocktail lists as we do our food menus.

Open daily for lunch and dinner through the week and join us for brunch or dinner on the weekends!

770.680.2457 | cattleshedwinebar.com

6290 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

Uthan Vivek, MD, FRCS (Glasgow), FACS Mehul Joshi, DO, MS, RPVI Visharad Patel, DO, MS, RPVI James Res, DO, RPVI

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH Celebration Exhibit

ALPHARETTA ARTS CENTER

Juneteenth, a baby’s first tooth popping out, a 21st birthday, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a graduation, a wedding… what do all of these events have in common? Throughout the history of our world, our country, and in each person’s life, there are significant moments. We mark these moments, these milestones, by celebrating. AwesomeAlpharetta.com

OPEN WEEKDAYS

Photography at City Hall

ALPHARETTA CITY HALL

By international photographer, Anna Rumiantseva, these images reflect the artist’s fondest memories of her hometown, Mariupol, Ukraine. At this time, many of the buildings and structures in this exhibit no longer stand or have been severely damaged. Through this exhibit, she hopes to show her love for this place forever changed and to illustrate how fleeting life can be.

AUGUST 4TH

Goodbye to Summer

AVALON | 2:00 PM

Stroll the vehicle-free Boulevard and shop for this season’s essentials while listening to live music and enjoying exciting activities. Visit Concierge to pick up your stroll map for a list of the season’s end deals and special offerings from participating retailers and restaurants. Live music performances, Hawaiian-themed cocktails at outdoor bars.

AUGUST 5TH

Alpharetta Summer Wine Fest

THE HOTEL AT AVALON | 1:00 PM 50-plus wines, small beer selection, live music, and DJ Qtip. Tickets include entry, entertainment, souvenir acrylic wine glass, and all wine and beer samples. $50 advance, $55 after July 27, $65 day of event (unless sold out).

AUGUST 12TH

Home by Dark Concert Series at Brooke Street Park 2 PARK PLAZA | 7:00 PM

Georgia Middleman and James David Carter live. This beloved free music series returns for select Saturdays in 2023 throughout the warmer months. Located on the East Lawn behind City Hall, bring a blanket and picnic to enjoy a night of stories, songs, and inspiration you’ll never forget. Free admission.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Alpharetta

Another Great Year

ARTICLE BY MIKE LOONEY, FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT

I am excited about another year in Fulton County Schools. We are so proud of our students, who have shown resilience over the last few years, and our educators and programs have only continued to grow and improve. Students are excelling on multiple levels, from academics to sports to the fine arts to career technology and innovation. We have made so much progress in our recovery from the pandemic, and I appreciate the support of our parent stakeholders and Board of Education.

Community backing and collaboration is vital for our success. So much great work has been done to support our students and we have proved that we are better together. Examples of our collaborative success include the Bridge to Success, the program we created to utilize federal dollars from the CARES Act, and the American Rescue Plan. These funds have been applied to create and supplement existing programs that allow us to focus on the whole person – academics, workforce development and emotional health.

As we move into the new 2023-2024 school year, our dedicated and determined staff and I look forward to building on the progress we have made. We know you value high quality education and programs that will help prepare your children to be the leaders of tomorrow. Our heartfelt aim is to help students be successful in the path they choose – first to graduate, then to attend college or be ready for employment in the workplace. Fulton continues to demonstrate strong expectations for academic rigor with college readiness support.

Our Career, Technology and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs equip students with leadership and vocational skills to prepare them for employment. Our extensive student services provide mental health and other important resources for students’ wellbeing. I could not be prouder of our community, but there’s always work to do and we’re ready to launch. We have also invested heavily in literacy training and focused on the science of reading in our early grades.

Last, but not by any means least, we have taken measures we needed to address that enhance our safety and security programs. Our district has made tremendous investments in equipment, tools and personnel as well as updating our assessment protocols. Safety and security are our top priorities, so students can be free to learn and succeed. As the world and our communities change, we adapt and evolve together while keeping our goals in front of us. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.

Mike Looney Fulton County Schools Superintendent

DR. MICHAEL PAPCIAK

North Fulton’s expert specializing in Autism Spectrum and other medically complex conditions.

Physical Examinations | Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Post-Covid Conditions | Sports, Athletics and Nutrition (All Ages)

“Dr Papciak relates so well to kids of all ages, my teens especially. They are not afraid to speak frankly to him because he is very practical and straight forward.”

“He is the most knowledgeable and caring pediatrician, I would recommend him to anyone looking for good and honest care for their children.”