Alpharetta, GA March 2024

ISLAND TIME:

Kitchen makeovers to make you swoon

HOME + DESIGN

REPLANTING AND RESTORING IS SCENIC SOUTH'S PLEASURE

THE KITCHEN ISLAND: A HOME'S ANCHOR

HOME SERVICES

ROCK SOLID: MEET TAMMIE CARTER

H i g h - q u a l i t y c a r e w i t h h o m e t o w n h e a r t

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.

No matter your health needs – from routine to advanced – we’re here to help you make your health a priority.

emoryhealthcare.org/johnscreek

Our luxury furniture showrooms are open to the public on select days each month. With highquality, unique, and on-trend furniture that is available to take home same-day or schedule to have delivered and a team of expert designers ready to help, you are sure to find what you’ve been searching for at one of our exciting shopping events!

SCAN THE QR TO CHECK OUT UPCOMING EVENTS IN YOUR AREA!

Multiple locations in:

GEORGIA | DALLAS | FLORIDA

For over a decade, our team of expert designers have furnished thousands of homes, TURNKEY, all over the United States. We have cornered the market with superior products, lightning-fast lead times and unparalleled customer service and expertise! Reach out and let’s discuss what we can do for YOU!

We look forward to seeing you, Kristy & JJ Ortega

Hello friends,

Jim

When I was 5-years old we moved to the suburbs from the west side of Detroit. We had an acre with giant willow trees to climb, a rec room for my four teenage brothers and a field next door to explore. With Detroit in tumult at the time, my parents wanted to escape to the safety of the 'burbs and, while I was young, I understood the gravity of the move. Biking was more challenging because there were no sidewalks in our countryside neighborhood and the roads were not paved, but I did have my own bedroom with blue shag carpet and a pass-through window between the kitchen and family room, that I would lean through to say goodnight to my parents after high school parties!

My mother was a meticulous housekeeper, so the carpet would always have neat tracks from recent vacuuming and the small kitchen would somehow remain spotless even with six kids rummaging around.

Now that I'm an empty-nester, I too enjoy a tidy home and my husband is as handy as a pocket on a shirt when it comes to housework. We love hosting rousing family dinners, but relish our quiet and clean home once the party is over.

We've lived in nearly 30 homes in our 38 years together, and each has offered something different to our family and lifestyle.

In this month's HOME issue, we celebrate design, color and the all-important location. Enjoy the stories in these pages. We are thankful to you for allowing us into your home and hope this issue earns a place on your coffee table.

All my best,

SUE COLLINS, EDITOR @ALPHARETTACITYLIFESTYLE

Sue

Karyn

city scene

1: Cheers to Rina, the fresh new restaurant at Avalon 2: Delicious drinks and food enjoyed by City Lifestyle at the new Rina restaurant at Avalon 3: Greg Mabry, GM of Bentley Atlanta, twinning with Karyn Slovin of City Lifestyle 4: Vikram Arroju, owner of Creation Social Mediterranean Cuisine & Bar, Karyn Slovin and Chef Firat 5: Dr. Julia Kang at the JOLI Oculoplastics grand opening with friends and

leagues 6: Luci's Steakhouse loves Alpharetta City Lifestyle magazine

Sharing the Joy: Let’s Give Back Together this Holiday Season!

Tammie Carter, Associate Broker & Luxury Real Estate Expert

770-820-7127

Sharing the Joy: Let’s Give Back Together this Holiday Season!

Holiday Toy Drive

Tammie Carter, Associate Broker & Luxury Real Estate Expert

Is Title Insurance a Waste of Money?

Tammie Carter, Associate Broker & Luxury Real Estate Expert

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make in your lifetime. Amidst the excitement of house hunting and envisioning your future in a new space, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of securing title insurance. While it may seem like an added expense, title insurance offers invaluable protection and peace of mind for both buyers and lenders. Here are two reasons you should prioritize obtaining title insurance when purchasing a home.

770-820-7127

Join our Toy Drive and bring joy! Donate new, unwrapped toys at our North Atlanta office until December 12th. Can’t drop off? Contact me for pickup and let’s spread cheer together!

770-820-7127

Holiday Toy Drive

Holiday Toy Drive

Join our Toy Drive and bring joy! Donate new, unwrapped toys at our North Atlanta office until December

Join our Toy Drive and bring joy! Donate new, unwrapped toys at our North Atlanta office until December 12th. Can’t drop off? Contact me for pickup and let’s spread cheer together!

Canned Food Drive

12th. Can’t drop off? Contact me for pickup and let’s spread cheer together!

Defending Your Ownership Rights:

Canned Food Drive

Join Our Festive Canned Food Drive! Drop off non-perishable items at the North Atlanta office, or contact me for convenient arrangements. Let’s make a difference together this season!

Canned Food Drive

• •

Title Insurance ensures that the title to the home is clear of any liens, encumbrances, or defects that could jeopardize your ownership in the future. And Title insurance is good for the duration of your ownership unless you refinance. Note: If you don’t get a survey in your name, there is an exception in all policies that will not cover boundary line encroachments.

Join Our Festive Canned Food Drive!

Drop off non-perishable items at the North Atlanta office, or contact me for convenient arrangements.

Transforming Lives: Pledge to Wellspring Living with Your Home Sale

Let’s make a difference together this season!

Join Our Festive Canned Food Drive! Drop off non-perishable items at the North Atlanta office, or contact me for convenient arrangements. Let’s make a difference together this season!

Guarding Against Hidden Risks:

• •

Schools News

Transforming Lives: Pledge to Wellspring Living with Your Home Sale

Transforming Lives: Pledge to Wellspring Living with Your Home Sale

So how about this for an example:

I’m pledging $100 to WellSpring Living in your name for each closing, aiding domestic sex trafficking victims since 2001. Just mention you came across this in the Alpharetta magazine. You’re contributing to their vision of a world where every victim receives transformative care. Or, for direct support, donate here: wellspringliving.org/donate and just mention in the note that I sent you!

Title searches don’t always uncover potential risks. Title Insurance provides coverage for undisclosed heirs, forged documents, clerical errors, and other hidden risks that could emerge.

I’m pledging $100 to WellSpring Living in your name for each closing, aiding domestic sex trafficking victims since 2001. Just mention you came across this in the Alpharetta magazine. You’re contributing to their vision of a world where every victim receives transformative care. Or, for direct support, donate here: wellspringliving.org/donate and just mention in the note that I sent you!

A buyer elected not to pay for the Owner’s Title Insurance. They purchased the home and started inquiring about putting a pool in the backyard. The pool company required a survey first. Once the survey was completed, they discovered there was a main sewer line that ran through the backyard. It cost the Buyer approximately $55k to reroute the sewer line...

REMINDER: File for Homestead Exemption before APRIL 1st!! Huge Tax Savings!

I’m pledging $100 to WellSpring Living in your name for each closing, aiding domestic sex trafficking victims since 2001. Just mention you came across this in the Alpharetta magazine. You’re contributing to their vision of a world where every victim receives transformative care. Or, for direct support, donate here: wellspringliving.org/donate and just mention in the note that I sent you!

Tammie Carter

Engel & Völkers Atlanta

2610 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30009 M +1 770-820-7127 | O +1 404-845-7724

Webb Bridge Middle School sixth graders worked to ensure children of local refugee families received holiday gifts and designed an Endof-Year Cheer campaign to collect and wrap over 200 gifts for 73 families. This project is part of their service learning, reading  Refugee by Alan Gratz. Two Alpharetta High School student’s artwork has been accepted into the 2023/2024 All State Art Symposium: Aimy Varughese for her piece "Hidden", and Hope Koehler for her work "Tied."

Photography by Hope Koehler

Tammie Carter Engel

tammie.carter@evatlanta.com | tammiecarter.com

Tammie Carter

Engel & Völkers Atlanta

2610

Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30009 M +1 770-820-7127 | O +1 404-845-7724

2610 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30009

M +1 770-820-7127 | O +1 404-845-7724

tammie.carter@evatlanta.com | tammiecarter.com

tammie.carter@evatlanta.com | tammiecarter.com

Get Down & Derby

Milton Friends of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is hosting the second annual Down & Derby on Saturday, May 4 at Chukkar Farm. This year’s event has been themed, “May the Horse Be With You” and will include derby fashion, live race viewing, a race wagering raffle, dinner, dancing, a live and silent auction, live music, and an exciting array of on-site activities. Presenting sponsors include The Jenny Doyle Group and Berkeley Capital Partners.

Find Your People

Rumble Boxing Alpharetta redefines fitness by providing an experience like no other. Expert trainers guide you through an exhilarating journey toward optimal fitness at a pace you’re comfortable with. Their state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant community make every workout a memorable experience. Come discover why Rumble was voted “best boutique gym in Alpharetta.” Readers can book a FREE intro class at RumbleBoxingGym.com/ Alpharetta  404.400.2386.

“I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to give Absolute Image Consulting a try, it has been by far my favorite place I’ve had over all my years. I find their hair systems to be top notch, the most up to date on the market, as are all the hair products that they offer. I can’t say enough good things about the company and staff.” - Client Testimonial

“My experience at Absolute Image completely changed my life. After suffering from hair loss since college, I’d also lost most of my self esteem and confidence along the way. The quality is truly astounding. They gave me my life back. They have me myself back. My only regret is not choosing this sooner and saving myself all those rough mornings in the mirror. If you’re considering hair replacement - do it.” - Client Testimonial

Warm Design IN SAVANNAH

THE KIMPTON BRICE HOTEL

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

The Davenport House Museum

Dating back to the 1860s, the storied buildings that are now the Kimpton Brice Savannah Hotel housed a livery stable, cotton warehouse, foundry and machine shop, wholesale grocer and Coca-Cola bottling plant, before becoming The Mulberry Inn in 1982. When transformed into The Kimpton Brice in 2014, the Savannah gray color palette was used throughout the property to provide a calming and neutral envelope for more contemporary layers of interior design elements that are welcoming, charming, sophisticated and playful.

The story behind the general design was to maintain a sense of wonder – ethereal, dreamy and magical – while also uplifting

furnishings and finishes to feel curated with a European sensibility. The color palette is soft and subdued with rich textures and a newly added bookcase to tie back to Savannah’s literary history. The art featured throughout the property is a collection of local and national pieces.

You’ll want to take the fun fringe chairs in the lobby home with you. A metal screen pays homage to the iron gates that can be found walking through stately neighborhoods surrounding The Kimpton Brice.

My favorite nearby historic building is The Davenport House Museum. In 1955, the c. 1820 Isaiah Davenport House was set to be demolished to be made into a surface parking lot. It was saved by a group of seven intrepid women, who blocked the demolition, purchased the property, and formed the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF). The

House opened as a museum in 1963. The HSF saved it and preserves it still today. Be sure to include a tour when you stay at The Kimpton Brice, which is off the beaten track in historic downtown Savannah, steps from the revitalized riverfront and all the fun, but without the noise and frivolity.

There’s a sweet hidden garden where you can have morning coffee or work (if you must). The hotel restaurant, Pricci, serves southern-inspired Italian classics. We liked the étouffée and southern biscuits for breakfast and short rib marsala for dinner. The menu is impressive and surprising. And, there’s nothing better than a gorgeous meal in your hotel and a nightcap by the pool before wandering up to bed.

BriceHotel.com

DavenportHouseMuseum.org

The Davenport House Museum

We love a signature hotel restaurant: Pacci at The Kimpton Brice.

ADVOCATES

AWARENESS

ANNUAL GALA CONTINUES TO RAISE CRITICAL FUNDS FOR ORGANIZATION'S MISSION

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY

Over the last decade of my work as an event planner in Atlanta, no organization has had a greater impact on my life than the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance. My work has made me realize that everyone has a voice in the prevention of this disease and that we all need to be advocates for awareness and early detection.

The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about ovarian cancer, providing support to survivors and their families, and

City Lifestyle publishers Jennifer Conforti, Lisa Thibault, and Dianne Kaseta

funding the nationally recognized “Bag of Hope” program. Through community outreach, events, and resources, the alliance strives to empower women with knowledge about symptoms and risk factors leading to early detection.

Clearly, ovarian cancer is a women’s disease, but men can play a crucial role in educating people about ovarian cancer by raising awareness and fostering open, thoughtful conversations. Supporting female partners, friends, and family members in seeking regular check-ups and discussing women’s health openly helps break down the social taboos surrounding ovarian cancer. Men can participate in awareness campaigns, share information through social platforms, and encourage a proactive approach to healthcare, ultimately contributing to early detection and improved outcomes for ovarian cancer. Empathy, shared experiences, and a commitment to advocacy create a powerful bond, making community a stronghold for those navigating the complexities of ovarian cancer, promoting awareness, and driving positive change.

I have lost so many friends because their cancer was not detected in the early stages, which would have greatly increased their chance of survival. Losing members of the ovarian cancer community is a poignant and heartbreaking reality. Each departure represents not only an individual, but also a shared journey of resilience and strength. These losses underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, research, and support. Honoring those who have succumbed to this disease becomes a

is celebrating the Shaken, Not Stirred Gala on March 9 at Georgia Aquarium.

catalyst for continued advocacy, encouraging a united front against ovarian cancer. Their legacies inspire an unwavering commitment to improving early detection methods and treatment options, fostering hope for a future where losses in the ovarian cancer community become increasingly rare. GAOvarianCancer.org

Gailtricia Fogg and Kim Emory (survivors), laughing it up with Sean O'Keefe

Evelyn Orenbuch and Stuart Napshin celebrating their auction win!

REPLANT,

A HUGE LANDSCAPING JOB LEFT NO STONE UNTURNED.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Presented with a wish list a mile long, fueled by a desire to reuse every living thing on the property while adding a substantial deck and hobby workspace and bringing a cracked driveway back to life, Brennan and Michaela Nicholson charged forth with a plan. The company they built, Scenic South Landscape and Design, had been hired to consult on and complete an extensive residential project. The homeowner wanted a yard with easy

“THE BIGGEST GOAL: USE AS MANY EXISTING PLANTINGS AS POSSIBLE, TO UTILIZE THE BUDGET IN OTHER AREAS.”

maintenance including zero to minimal trimming needs and a WiFi-controlled irrigation system using recycled water. The yard should use native plantings, natural and authentic, eschewing anything overly manicured. Adding parking or a turn-around space and repairing a badly cracked driveway without completely replacing it was also top of the list, along with adding curb appeal overall.

“The biggest goal: use as many existing plantings as possible, to utilize the budget in other areas,” says Michaela. “Also, we needed to create more space for entertaining and a workspace for their hobby golf cart repair projects; correct the erosion

and save a mature redbud tree washing away on the path to the lake; address window and deck rot in several places on the house; build a large deck with a flagstone surface and cable railing; and replace living room windows with French doors onto a new deck.”

Scenic South began by removing all plantings along the driveway, transplanting more than 50 fully matured azalea bushes, three Japanese maple trees, and several other large young trees, and moving 100 plants and trees across the property. Every plant dug up had to either be planted right away or needed a temporary holding spot with water and protection

from the elements. Irrigation systems were updated, adding a pump from the lake using recycled water rather than city water. “We built a carport to match the house with tongue and groove ceiling, electrical outlets, and lights, making a once unusable area a functioning parking space,” says Michaela. They also lovingly relocated a koi pond and expanded the level of entertaining space.

They constructed a 600-square-foot deck with flagstone as the surface, with room below for parking and a covered outdoor space. “It took a great deal of careful planning and engineering to build a suspended deck strong enough to hold the weight of flagstone. We replaced an existing deck with Trex deck boards and handrails. We also built an 8-foot diameter boulder fire pit embedded in another 600 square-foot flagstone patio,” says Brennan. Their team used more than 40 tons of boulders in the landscape design while attending to drainage, dry creek beds, and grading.

Michaela and Brennan started their partnership with a landscape maintenance company and built on their creativity and strengths with problem-solving to launch Scenic South. “When you hire us, you get an integrated team of qualified individuals who all work together on each project from start to finish,” says Michaela. “We handle everything from small additions to plants and trees to plumbing and electrical. Even if we don’t have someone on our team, we can align you with the best-fit person.” Because teamwork is dreamwork.

ScenicSouthLandscaping.com

ROCK SOLID

Meet Tammie Carter

Tammie was raised in Athens with two siblings. As a child, Tammie had aspirations of being an interior decorator, but quickly realized she might starve to death. Never in a million years did she think she’d stumble into the real estate industry, but you can’t always predict where or when you’ll discover

Tammie was taught at a young age that if you want something in life, you have to work for it. So that’s what she did. And she worked hard.

what you’re meant to do in life and she kept being led towards real estate.

Tammie was taught at a young age that if you want something in life, you have to work for it. So that’s what she did. And she worked hard.

Tammie worked her way from teaching computer science in St. Augustine to becoming the Technical Support Manager for a large fiber network company, never wavering in her resolve to become the best version of herself with each career move.

Tammie got into the real estate industry more than 20 years ago when she entered into the world of title insurance by working for one of the top companies in the state. She became the owner of a title company herself and went on to become an appraiser and work for a developer, developing parcels of land into residential and commercial sites. Because of her love for

real estate, she decided to get her real estate license and eventually her broker’s license and began training agents to become the best they could be in the ever-changing real estate world.

As Tammie’s career advanced, she found her stride working with sellers in the greater Atlanta area market. As a former appraiser valuing homes all over Georgia, Tammie is familiar with any market she is introduced to. She is an expert in the greater Atlanta market with a vast knowledge of property values, proven marketing techniques and top-notch negotiating skills that set her apart from other agents.

Throughout her 20-plus year career, Tammie has earned numerous accolades, including ranking in the top 10% of agents in Georgia since 2017 and number one individual agent in Engel & Volkers North Atlanta.

CONTINUED >

Throughout her 20-plus year career, Tammie has earned numerous accolades, including ranking in the top 5% of agents in Georgia since 2017 and number one individual agent in Engel & Volkers North Atlanta.

She lives in Forsyth Co. with her family, dogs and horses. In her free time, she enjoys puzzling or hiking the North Georgia waterfalls.

TAMMIE’S TOP PICKS:

Favorite lunch spot: Rumi’s Kitchen. They have indoor and outdoor seating which is great on a nice sunny day. Their roasted mushroom Hummusiya is amazing!

Favorite places to shop:  Kilwin’s for chocolates for sure! For unique gifts, Piper Lillies on Jones Bridge Rd has the cutest!

Favorite dinner restaurant: Fogon and Lions is an awesome restaurant, with great owners and excellent food. My favorite is Copa Sin Fin bottomless wine Wednesdays!

New construction near town listing: Pinetree, a six-bedroom home on a half acre, walkable to downtown. $3,597,000

New construction: Shady Grove, with a primary bedroom on the main, and a fully finished basement. $3,599,000

Now on the market:  Built in 2020, primary bedroom on main, on 1.2 acre and walkable to downtown. $3,595,000

Tammie Carter

770.820.7127

TammieCarter.com

GAHorseFarmsAndLand.com

AmazingAtlantaHomes.net

Island Life

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

When interior designer Debbie Blumencranz Rubin first met with her clients in their new home, they presented a long list of appliances and wishes to be included in the transformation. They loved to entertain and host holiday gatherings. While the clients had definite ideas about functional storage and requirements for cooking, Debbie knew the space needed to be exceptional, but also comfortable and utilitarian.  CONTINUED >

We take great pride in making sure that the design is exactly what the clients were hoping for.

Here are five fabulous design features that Debbie feels make the home special.

1. The island! We needed lots of countertop space, while at the same time waterfalling the stone and creating an eating space.

2. The hood! The client designed/sketched this hood, and I brought in a specialist to faux finish with a plaster look, which came out extraordinary.

3. The walls of the butler’s pantry! I wanted a really dark and stormy feel in this room, which I felt caught the eye between the kitchen and dining room when you looked through. I had the same artist come in and we did a suede finish on the painted walls. Turned out exceptionally well.

4. The brass details! All the hardware is custom-made for the client. Lots of small brass details are hidden throughout the kitchen to catch your eye. The client worked for hours with the metal workers to create the exact look.

5. Floors! The natural stone floors were brought in from overseas and we waited several months for them to come in. The color is fabulous in this kitchen.

If there is one thing clients should know about Cotton and Steel Design, I would want them to know that we first start with the layout/function of a space. We take great pride in making sure that the design is exactly what the clients were hoping for. We listen A LOT up front and try to get all the important details in for them. We do not sell any product. We are here to design the space and work with all the fabricators the clients need. Having the right team in place for any client looking to remodel or build is so important.

Cotton and Steel Design, LLC

Debbie Blumencranz Rubin (Owner/Principal) CottonSteelDesign.com

City Love

ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

“It was by sheer chance and some really good luck when we were home hunting in the northern suburbs of Atlanta that we discovered Alpharetta,”  says Beyond Cushions owner Minna Nagpal.

“We love the vibe and the down-to-earth character of the city and decided to live here and make this our business headquarters and our home,” says Minna.  “Alpharetta truly has it all and there is so much to discover. It is a city that seamlessly blends southern charm with modern sophistication, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking to be inspired.”Beyond Cushions Corporation was launched in August 2013

to market high-end furnishing accessories and home accents. The company’s products showcase signature designs that depict famous skylines and other recognizable landmarks unique to some of the major cities around the world.

The company offers embroidered artisan-designed pillows, tea towels, tote bags, wine bags and glassware - all donning beloved skylines and landmarks from around the world. But, their heart is in Alpharetta. “From

vibrant music scenes to eclectic shopping, thrilling events, exquisite dining, captivating attractions, and a thriving arts community,” says Minna. “It has a unique blend of cultures, excellent schools, incredible job opportunities, great shopping and cultural events. It’s no wonder Alpharetta is one of the hottest markets. We ended up moving here from New Jersey and are absolutely loving it. And while there’s always something new and exciting happening, we are still exploring all that this amazing city has to offer.”

BeyondCushions.com

Meal From Home

ARTICLE BY KARYN SLOVIN

The tastes of home are what fuel the owners of the reinvented Creation Social House Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar. Partners Vikram Arroju and Chef Firat Ozay strive to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean and hometown of Chef Firat in every dish they prepare.

Born in Adana, Turkey, and cooking since he was 10, Chef Firat moved to Istanbul at 14. There he graduated from culinary school and came to the United States in 2012. Chef continued to follow his dreams of cooking and created a dish on the menu, lamb Adana, in honor of his hometown.

At Creation Social House, traditional Turkish brunch is served on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with the menu reflecting the dishes Firat and his family grew up with. Brunch is traditionally accompanied by Turkish tea served in a copper pot; but since I am more of a coffee drinker, I enjoyed a cup of Turkish coffee served in an authentic tea cup.

We also ordered the vegetable omelet filled with a variety of seasonal veggies, and homemade potato pancakes with fresh herbs, cooked to perfection. The presentation of brunch and all the accoutrements was as beautiful as it was delicious. My guest and I were served a large cheese plate consisting of feta, special homemade shredded cheese by Chef Firat, tomatoes, cucumbers and crackers. A bowl of Turkish green and black olives in olive oil and herbs was followed by the sweet and irresistible honey and Turkish cream to top warm pita bread. The sweetness continued with a dish of Cilek Receli, similar to strawberry jam, and chocolate Nutella, both to put on top of the pita bread.

At Creation Social House, Chef Firat only uses fresh ingredients and all dishes are made from scratch. “We want our guests enjoy a healthy meal and a taste of everything from spice to sweet. Most of all, we want them to enjoy family time and a taste of home.”

Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with brunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

11500 Webb Bridge Way, Suite a7, Alpharetta    CreationSocialHouse.com

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

If you haven’t subscribed to watching “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” streaming on Netflix, do yourself a favor and soak up the well-documented views into how Ikaria, Greece, Loma Linda, California, Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, and Nicoya, Costa Rica exemplify the basis behind the Blue Zones truth and have since inspired Dan and his team to further extrapolate how we can manufacture healthy blue zone lifestyles in virtually any city and within our homes by way of intentional adaptation.

Most of us are well aware of the “American way of life” we reside in, that being one of convenience in all shapes and forms. We excel in offering the most fast food options in any country. We rank at the top of the most cars per household. We embrace a sedentary at-home lifestyle. And, for many of us, it stems from our childhood to no-fault of our own; comfort foods and Friday night pizza deliveries, complacent recliners and cushy car commutes. In short, however, now more than ever we categorically live in a country where processed foods and ultra-convenience, unfortunately, translate to life-threatening health diseases and a lack of organic joy.

What is the best news of all? All of these characteristics are wildly easy to overcome with effortless, yet conscious pivots to making better decisions with our time, our food, and our focus. Ask yourself: Are you driving or walking? Are you connecting socially? Set your sights on avoiding the majority of processed foods and start eating a largely whole-food and plant-based diet that will (statistically) give you another 10-12 years on your life.

In place of your toaster, keep a fruit bowl on the counter. Create a low-level junk food drawer. Stop buying processed meat, potato chips, sweetened snacks like cookies and candies, and worst of all, sugar-sweet beverages, and start buying more beans, nuts, grains, and tea.

“Am I going to tell you to never have these? No, people deserve to treat themselves. But you’ll do yourself an enormous favor if you just don’t bring those into your home. If you want to go out for those treats, go ahead,” Dan says.

“Simply just don’t bring them home, and you’ll cut out 70-80% of consumption right there.”

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Who do you hang out with? Happiness is contagious. “The Blue Zone approach is to go through your contact base and think of some friends whose recreation is pickleball, biking, or gardening. Who will care about you on a bad day and have a meaningful conversation? Identify one or two friends who are vegan or vegetarian and show you how and where to eat whole foods. Actively invite them out for lunch, and bring them into your social circle: this will have a bigger, long-term impact on your behavior than any new diet or exercise, and it costs you zero. Plus, there is a ton of data that shows it works, and it’s long-term.”

“We are marketed the idea that if we change our behavior by exercising more, taking the right supplements, trying this longevity or that anti-aging hack, that we will

Follow

lose weight and get healthy, yet it never works for the longterm,” says Dan. The Blue Zones approach is not trying to change your behaviors, it is asking you to change your surroundings…your eco-system.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

And, we would be remiss not to attend to the travelers at heart who would love to indulge in a luxurious resort paired with the facets of an actual Blue Zones destination. Dan highly recommends seeking out Silvestre in Nosara, Costa Rica where the experience offers wellness programming, fully-equipped kitchens, and outdoor activities that will fuel your inspiration for a healthier life.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Embark on Your Unique Smile Journey!

Experience orthodontics like never before at Alpharetta’s The Smile Design. We blend tradition with cutting-edge tech, tailoring treatments to your desires. From traditional, gold, and rose gold braces to clear aligners, we’ve got your smile covered. Your radiant, confident smile is our goal. Say goodbye to boring braces and hello to customized options. Ready to transform your smile? Dive in and schedule your life changing appointment today.

thesmiledesignofatlanta.com

404.850.5025

5530 Windward Parkway Suite 410

Alpharetta, GA 30004

Facial

Clear

Braces

MARCH 2024

events

THROUGH MARCH 24TH

The Ruby Sunrise by Rinne Groff

Act 1 Theater

The Ruby Sunrise charts the course of the phenomenon of television: from early idealism and sparks of genius to promises fulfilled and compromises brokered, and beyond. Fridays and Saturdays in March at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m.

ACT1theater.org/ruby-sunrise

MARCH 3RD - 9TH

Alpharetta

Restaurant Week

Alpharetta

Alpharetta boasts an unbeatable lineup of top-notch culinary hot spots and Alpharetta Restaurant Week is the perfect time for patrons to try a new restaurant or revisit a favorite. Participating restaurants will offer a special dinner menu with multiple courses for $25-$50+ and many also offer similar lunch menus for $20-$35+ (beverage, tax and gratuity not included).

MARCH 4TH

Sahaja Meditation

Alpharetta Library | 5:00 PM

Learn how to meditate. Experience its calming effects. No registration is required. Free and open to all. For questions, please contact Michael. salpeter@fultoncountyga.gov

MARCH 15TH

Luck of Avalon

Avalon

Calling all lads, lassies, and little leprechauns! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Avalon style, while sipping and stroll-

ing the boulevard with live music, Irish flair, and more to sham-ROCK the night away! Free admission.

MARCH 23RD

ShamRockin’ for a Cure

400 Avalon Blvd. | 8:00 PM

ShamRockin’ for a Cure is an award-winning party for a purpose that has raised more than $2.9 million for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. They are back with live music, food and drinks from 30+ vendors, live and silent auctions, and more!

MARCH 25TH

Emergency First Aid Fundamentals with Charles Pinson

Alpharetta Library | 5:00 PM

What to do in a medical emergency after you call 9-1-1 and are waiting for help to arrive? Learn life-saving techniques that can make a difference. Please note, this is a one-time class,

BALENCIAGA CRISTÓBAL

MASTER OF TAILORING

Photo by Neal Barr

ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW

The Alpharetta Design Review Board conducts a public hearing for design applications for commercial buildings, signage, and new site/landscaping plans within the “Corridors of Influence.” Corridors of Influence are roadways and transportation routes having the greatest visual impact within the City of Alpharetta and those roads that are “gateways” into the city. Corridors of Influence include Alpharetta Highway or State Route 9 or Main Street (except those portions which are in the Downtown Overlay), Haynes Bridge Road, Mansell Road, North Point Parkway, Old Milton Parkway, Westside Parkway and Windward Parkway (from State Route 9 to Georgia 400).

The board also reviews new residential construction within the Downtown Overlay. New homes within the Downtown Overlay are required to meet one of 12 architectural styles which include Georgian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, Queen Anne, Stick, Folk Victorian, Shingle, Italianate, Romanesque, Tudor Eclectic, Federal/Adam, Mercantile/Mill.

The board grants or denies applications based upon a review of the application’s compliance with the city’s design standards and preservation of the historical, cultural, and aesthetic heritage of the city.

The board meets the third Friday of each month beginning at 8:30 a.m. at City Hall within the Council Chambers. Meetings are open to the public.

COMMON ISSUES/QUESTIONS:

The most common question they receive is “What size wall sign is permitted?” A commercial property is permitted one sign per road frontage no larger than 1 square foot of signage per linear foot of storefront. The city recently changed the code to prohibit internally illuminated channel letters, and the Design Review Board encourages creative signage such as painting signage on

the building and multi-layered designs with a focus on materials that relate to the business if possible. Additionally, to spark creativity, they require multiple materials with an emphasis on the overall thickness of the sign.

Other often missed site design items include sufficient landscape screening of detention ponds, visible roof-mounted equipment, and excessive site lighting distracting from the architecture or spilling over into adjacent properties. The board also discourages the removal of existing trees important to the character of the site. However, in some cases, removal is required to install streetscape including sidewalks.

Parking structures are also reviewed and are required to provide architectural details similar to the building they serve.

The board also reviews many applications to paint existing brick white. The board encourages unpainted brick. Where painting brick is the only option due to an addition being made to a building and it’s not possible to match the color of the existing and new brick, other colors besides white are encouraged.

There are many sites where required landscape strips along the roadways conflict with overhead and underground utilities. In these cases, the applicant must move the required landscape strip farther into the site to avoid tree canopy conflicts with utilities. Many commercial applicants are concerned with the number of trees required to be planted within the landscape strips for fear of obstructing views into their business.

Procedures:  Applications are available online and submitted the first working day of each month.  They are heard by the Design Review Board within 60 days of the completed application being submitted. Most applicants meet with city staff before submittal to ensure they have a complete application to ensure a successful review and hearing process.

ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF