DECEMBER 2019
PerimeterNorthLifestyle.com
the best of dunwoody & sandy springs
Holiday
Cheer!
SEASON'S READINGS
HOLIDAY HOTEL GIFT GUIDE
WHEN HEALTHCARE CARES ABOUT YOU
LIFESTYLE LETTER
DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR
Sue Collins | scollins@lifestylepubs.com MARKET AREA ADMINISTRATOR
Darce Richardson | darce.richardson@lifestylepubs.com
Happy holidays, friends THIS WILL BE MY FIRST CHRISTMAS WITH A GRANDSON, THE BEST GIFT EVER.
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Kaylee Mitchell LAYOUT DESIGNER
My babies are 20, 22 and 27 and while they make my heart explode with love and pride every day, it's little Teddy who will be the star of this year's holiday season. Lucky for me, he and his parents will make the trek from Kansas City to stay with us for a week or so. Not long enough! While I am entranced with him, I also feel a deepening love for my daughter, his mother. I'm so amazed at her patience, positivity, and confidence. Watching her settle into
Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dennis Malcolm Byron, Rhiannon Johnson, Martha Polk, Mackenzie Sadler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dennis Malcolm Byron
motherhood is so rewarding and sharing his growth is an honor. I have spent the holidays in dozens of different homes (we’ve had fun moving around the world, living here in Atlanta for the last 10 years) but the one constant thing is dedicating all of Christmas Day to family. This year, we’ll be pulling up the high chair to the table and giving thanks for our many blessings. Especially the tiniest one.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
Happy holidays to you and yours from all of us here at Lifestyle Publications.
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
xo
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
Sue G. Collins, Editor SCollins@ LifestylePubs.com
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON
ON THE COVER Sleigh rides through the
SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
Canadian Rockies will put you in the holiday mood, as will a stay at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Check out our Holiday Hotel Gift Guide on page 12 for more memorable destinations and follow #SeeSueGo_ ! fairmont.com/lakelouise 4
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
PerimeterNorthLifestyle.com
Proverbs 3:5-6 Perimeter North Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Perimeter North areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Perimeter North Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
A C C E P T I N G N E W PAT I E N T S | A D U LT S & C H I L D R E N
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DOCTOR FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LEADS TO A LIFETIME OF GOOD HEALTH.
DR. SUDHA CHALLA, MD FAAFP Dr. Challa and staff are dedicated to serving the community and providing compassionate care for you and your family. Board Certified in Family Medicine and Geriatrics. Both locations offer personalized care for pediatrics, adults and seniors. We accept most major insurances. Our staff speaks Spanish, Vietnamese, Hindi, English and Bengali.
Facial
Facelift
P R I M A R Y C A R E • P E D I AT R I C S • P H Y S I C A L S • G E R I AT R I C S • M E D I C A L W E I G H T L O S S D E R M AT O L O G Y • L A S E R T R E AT M E N T S • VA C C I N AT I O N S • I V F L U I D H Y D R AT I O N
Newtown Park Medical Clinic & Geriatrics
2880 OLD ALABAMA ROAD, #300, JOHNS CREEK, GA
470-299-3991
Dekalb Family Practice & Geriatrics
4961 BUFORD HWY NE, #100, CHAMBLEE, GA
770-458-8497
SUDHACHALLAMD.COM
SUDHACHALLAMD.COM
MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9AM - 6PM
MONDAY-SATURDAY: 8AM - 6PM
INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019
FEATURES 12 Stay Here! Our Holiday Hotel Gift Guide No Gift Wrap Required.
16 Children's Champion Meet the CEO of Easterseals North Georgia.
16 28
28 Planning for the Ds Advice from an estate planner and attorney.
24
DEPARTMENTS
12
4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Around Town
12
Travel Destination
16
Giving Back
22 Page Turners 24 Inspired By 26 Local Limelight 28 Financial Buzz 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice
L I M I T E D -T I M E O F F E R
GRAND KITCHEN Event Create the kitchen of your dreams and save.
Visit your official Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom to get started. 3280 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30305 • 404-973-0660 • subzero-wolf.com/atlanta
GOOD TIMES
A Weekend of Polo Polo in the Pines Legacy Invitational and the Atlanta Polo Brunch Festival raised nearly $200,000 over two action-packed days of polo, fine dining, brunch bites, storytelling, and music. CHOA benefitted, with funds boosting pediatric brain cancer research efforts.
8
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
Co-working + Day Care Advertising partners and guests toured Alpharetta's only co-working space with fully licensed and onsite childcare. Located just around the corner from Avalon, the Commons at Phase has 30 private offices, 9 meeting and training rooms, a cafe, and a great vibe. PHASEFAMILYCENTER.COM/
WE DESIGN CONFIDENT SMILES! Dr. Azy Esfandiari - Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry
$500 OFF* INVISALIGN® *Call for details.
SERVICES: CLEANINGS & EXAMS TOOTH COLORED FILLINGS CROWNS & BRIDGES IMPLANT CROWNS & BRIDGES TEETH WHITENING 3D DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS DIGITAL ANESTHESIA DIGITAL SMILE DESIGN INVISALIGN® VENEERS BOTOX®
Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry 5975 Roswell Road, Ste D-229 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Phone: 678-701-6753 www.boutiqueforcosmeticdentistry.com December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
9
AROUND TOWN
SCHOOL NEWS
285, the area is on the leading edge of the city’s
Spalding Drive parents organized and pur-
development with urban and suburban ameni-
chased stuffed animals for Kindergarten through
ties, land, office space, transportation access and
second-grade students to “adopt” as reading bud-
more. There are many exciting new restaurants
dies. Woodland Elementary School’s Governance
and developments coming to the area, from Texas-
Council hosted a breakfast for current and
based Sixty Wines and Whiskey Cake, Duke of
aspiring business partners with student ambas-
Wellington Pub and a new location for Nai Thai, to
sadors. Sandy Springs Charter Middle School’s
AC Hotel Atlanta North and new co-working space
Foundation, through mini-grants, awarded employ-
Serendipity Labs. Mixed-use developments are
ees with $10,000 for classroom items including
coming soon, too, alongside the much-anticipated
135 science classrooms headphones, book sets,
High Street. It’s really becoming a place to live,
Counseling Department furniture, reading nooks,
work and play.
teaching aids, language-based vocabulary games, and Robotics competition registration fees. North Springs Charter High School celebrated three students who were accepted into the Harvard Diversity Debate Project for 2020. Ridgeview Charter (Middle) School hosted a College Fair for eighth-graders and high school students from North Springs and Riverwood clusters. Participants met college representatives and attended workshops on college admissions and preparedness. Three Riverwood International Charter School teachers were given the Fulton County Citizens Commission on the Environment award for establishing a community garden used across the curriculum by all students.
CAC BRANCHES OUT The Community Assistance Center (CAC)
ST. REGIS CELEBRATES
announces the opening of a new branch office
The St. Regis Atlanta is a longtime renowned
in Dunwoody, GA. The office will be located at
holiday destination now celebrating its 10th anni-
5 Dunwoody Park #113. CAC provides basic
versary, enchanting guests with new and returning
needs to prevent homelessness and hunger and
activities for the season. The St. Regis Atlanta’s
promotes self-sufficiency. CAC’s new Dunwoody
pastry team will again construct Atlanta’s largest
branch office will offer access to families who
gingerbread house unveiling it at a tree lighting cer-
live in that area, particularly those with no car, to
emony at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 29. Tea
CAC services. CAC expects to serve about 400
with Santa is December 5-8 and 12-24 from 1:00
families a year at the new office. CAC is seeking
– 5:00 p.m. Storytime with Santa is December
volunteers for Dunwoody branch office. volun-
12 – Christmas Eve. Christmas Day Brunch is
teer@ourcac.org.
11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Their other offices are at 120 Northwood Dr, and 1130 Hightower Trail. The CAC Food Pantry and Upscale Thrift Shop are located at 8607 Roswell Road. CAC serves neighbors in need in the cities of Sandy Springs and Dunwoody and the area served by Hightower Elementary School in Doraville. OurCAC.org
DEVELOPMENTS AT THE MARKET Keep your eyes on the Perimeter Dunwoody Market. At the intersection of Atlanta’s 400 and 10
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
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CREATE YOUR PATH EVERY CHILD’S EDUCATION IS A UNIQUE JOURNEY. At Woodward, we provide the compass.
TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, VISIT WOODWARD.EDU Main Campus, College Park, Pre-K to 12 Woodward North, Johns Creek, Pre-K to 6 404.765.4001
TRAVEL DESTINATION ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS
NO GIFT WRAP REQUIRED
Stay Here!
Our Holiday Hotel Gift Guide R i t z- C ar l to n , B o s to n Just a few blocks from Boston Common, this hotel stands quietly on Avery Street, with a recent multimillion-dollar renovation on over 193 guest rooms, including 43 pretty suites. The Artisan Bistro and bar make it easy to stay put. Most suites have full marble bathrooms with a separate soaker tub (Asprey bath products are classic and fresh) and walk-in shower. Bed linens are by Frette, 400-thread count, of course. RitzCarlton.com 617.574.7100
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise With stunning views of Victoria Glacier and the expansive lake frosted with heaps of white snow, everything about this hotel is grand and gorgeous. Located in Alberta’s Banff National Park, you’ll hike, ski, spa or just hop from the Poppy Brasserie (best breakfast buffet I’ve ever enjoyed) to the Lakeview Lounge where I discovered a no gin and tonic menu featuring Seedlip, a non-alcoholic spirit. Because, why dull the moment? Bright rooms, spa, boutiques and friendly happy Canadians. Fairmont.com/Lake-Louise/ 800.257.7544 Ritz-Carlton, Boston 12
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
St. Regis Atlanta
St. Regis Atlanta
Are you hosting Christmas this year, entertaining out-of-town guests? Make them comfortable in your home then check into the St. Regis Atlanta on West Paces Ferry in Buckhead. Complimentary in-room beverage service is yours day and night, but have a drink or dinner at Atlas Buckhead (see the incomparable Deb Bowman sing on Wednesdays). The recent renovation means even more comfortable bedding and a luxe bathroom to call your own. Marriott.com 404.563.7900 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The Shinola Hotel Hands-down, 2019 blue ribbon winner for the coolest hotel lobby. The city-sleekness of Shinola shines strong throughout the property, from the branded autumnal throws to the rich color palette in the hallways. The lobby is a gallery of bold local and international art, a two-story space to welcome guests and coffee dates. A real wood fire, deep velvet sofas and thoughtfully placed coffee tables make this lobby special. Guest rooms are beautifully appointed. The Shinola Hotel is also my top pick for best hotel robe. ShinolaHotel.com 313.356.1400
CONTINUED >
The Shinola Hotel December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
13
TRAVEL DESTINATION
(CON TI N U ED)
T h e H o t e l a t Av a l o n , Au to g r a p h C o l l e c t i o n My OTP home away from home, The Hotel at Avalon is convenient but more than that, it’s comfortable and does not scream “I’m a hotel for business travelers!” The lobby has a wood-burning fireplace (yes, it smells divine) and the doormen wear fleece vests to remind you to relax and enjoy. The rooms have large bathrooms (a must). Downstairs there’s a nicely lit bar and really good food at South City Kitchen. 678.722,3600 Marriott.com The Hotel at Avalon, Autograph Collection
G e t aw ay
NOPSI Hotel
One of my favorite stays of 2019 didn’t have turn-down service, a soaking tub or even space to walk around the bed. What my tiny cabin in the woods did have was a floor to ceiling view from my bed made up with high thread-count linens, my own bonfire and a minibar stocked with organic oatmeal and fixings for a simple supper. The tiny kitchen was perfectly stocked with thoughtful basics. Best of all, no wifi and only one bar of phone service. Just enough to keep in touch and post those Instagram pix. 23 sites on a quiet campground near Suches, GA. Take a cooler of food or drive 20 minutes into Dahlonega. Hike the Appalachian Trail, just 10 minutes from your tiny cabin. Get $25 off your booking with this code getawaycabin.com/n1DAE Getaway.House
NOPSI H o te l Located in New Orleans’ vibrant Central Business District, the nine-story brick building was originally constructed in 1927 as the headquarters for New Orleans Public Service Inc. (NOPSI), the city’s former utility company and transit operator. Now, the refined luxury hotel with a community spirit boasts a rooftop pool and Getaway
bar and Public Service restaurant. Central location, beautiful vibe. NOPSIHotel.com
14
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
Atlanta;rduke;R.S. Andrews Services;B37890-389272;7.083x4.75-4c (19NO)
FREE SERVICE CALL
with purchase of Smiley Club Plan*
$250 OFF
Complete HVAC System Replacement*
{warmulous} (adj); super cozy
(404) 618-0588 www.rsandrews.com
CN209549 *See dealer for details. Š 2019 Lennox Industries Inc. Lennox Dealers are independently owned and operated businesses.
Strong men aren’t born; they are built.
www.cadet.com 1-800-GO-CADET December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
15
GIVING BACK
ARTICLE MACKENZIE SADLER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Children's Champion 16
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
M
ENTION CHILDREN AND DONNA DAVIDSON’S EYES LIGHT UP AS SHE SEES THE POSSIBILITIES. Her inspiration as a leader in children’s issues began at a young age, when her passion led her to become a speech and language pathologist. Donna, CEO of Easterseals North Georgia, was part of the team that created the first preschool program for children with special needs in Massachusetts. She ultimately joined Easterseals Massachusetts in 1987 as director of marketing. Donna’s expertise and leadership brought her to Georgia in 1992, where she took the helm as ESNG’s CEO. Her first charge was to survey the needs of the 44 communities that ESNG serves. At that time, Georgia ranked 48th in child well-being. She applies her expertise in early education and early intervention to advocate and deliver quality programs that are crucial to the future success of young children with disabilities. Under Donna’s leadership, ESNG opened the first inclusive child care program in Georgia. This program has expanded to provide comprehensive early education and care services to 1,500 children daily in 14 locations across metro Atlanta and North Georgia. As a result, thousands of Georgia’s children have started school healthy and ready to learn. ESNG is also Georgia’s largest provider of critical early intervention services, serving more than 2,000 children annually. Donna has spent the past 27 years identifying the service gaps that exist for Georgia’s children. She analyzes data, meets with community members and continually researches best practices, identifying solutions that will help nurture the genius that exists in all children. She shares this knowledge with community leaders, families, philanthropists, and state and federal legislators, tenaciously working to identify resources to put these solutions into practice. The Perimeter was carefully selected as the home for ESNG’s corporate office. It’s the perfect central location for her team to travel to the 44 counties ESNG serves, and it’s also home to many of the hospitals and physician groups with which Easterseals collaborates. Donna also enjoys the area’s amenities such as the Sandy Springs Tennis Center, City Springs, and of course, the shopping. Donna’s was honored to be Easterseals North Georgia’s CEO during its 100th Anniversary. “For 100 years, Easterseals has provided services to children with disabilities and other special needs. We will continue to do so until 100% of our children are included, and 100% of our children are empowered.”
December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
17
ARTICLE DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
G U Y ' S G I F T G U I D E USHER LOVED ONES INTO 2020 WITH THESE THOUGHTFUL GIFTS.
AND AT THE BLINK OF AN EYE, THE WINTER HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US. As we do every year, we make it a priority to ease the task of shopping for meaningful, practical, and off-the-beaten-path gifts recipients will appreciate. Mixing it up, we are recommending a variety of presents in different price ranges for everyone to afford and enjoy. We wish you and yours a happy, safe and wondrous holiday season as we usher in 2020. Hopefully one—or many—of these gift ideas will help. Many blessings!
18
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
1.
1. Warm up the holidays with Decatur, Georgia’s own Radio Roasters Coffee serving up single-origin coffee beans from around the world which are roasted to order for a truly unique sipping experience. The Coffee Sampler ($19.95) and Hi/ Fi Blend Steeped Bags featuring beans from Colombia and Ethiopia are certainly winning selections. Gift boxes are available as well. ($19.95 for 10 bags.) Radioroasters.com
3.
2. Cords are so yesteryear, so enter 1MORE Stylish True
2.
Wireless In-Ear Headphones using Bluetooth technology, multiple pairing modes, 6.5 hours of continuous play/talk time, and an amazing quick-charge time of 15 minutes to get three more hours of usage. Coming in four colors, these high-tech ear buds are great for phone calls, cooking, working out—you name it—providing both hands freedom for multi-tasking. ($99.99) Usa.1more.com 3. Take an entire family into the future with this luxurious, 4.
roomy, and stylish all-new 2020 Hyundai Palisade SUV coming in three trims—SE, SEL, and Limited. Loaded with options, a gracious warranty package, and plush three-row cabin for up to eight passengers, our reviewed Limited AWD is the top of the line tagged at a very reasonable $46,400. (Starting price is $31,550.) Hyundaiusa.com 4. For those who love to entertain guests or simply store their collection of adult libations—especially up to 12 bottles of wine— in impeccable style, look no further than the Corridor 5.
Bar coming in three contemporary finishes. ($2,499) Bdiusa.com 5. Cleverly termed as the “fountain of youth packed into a bottle,” keep loved ones beautiful with Pure MD's Triple Threat. This anti-aging skin serum combats premature aging, wrinkles, and sun damage caused by free radicals with a blend of Vitamins C and E; Flourish f(x) complex; and Thiotane. Applied day or night,
6.
this gift is the perfect complement for those who want to continue proving age is only a number. ($88) Puremd.com 6. Provide that foodie or aspiring chef in your life an annual membership to Rouxbe, the world's leading online culinary school for only $99.99. Elite culinary professionals and educators teach a plethora of subjects to perfect whatever skill in the kitchen they desire. Professional certification courses are also available. Rouxbe.com/gift-cards
December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
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SEE AND BE SEEN
ARTICLE JENNIFER LESLIE BOETTCHER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
DUNWOODY STRENGTHENS WALKABILITY
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Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
THE CITY OF DUNWOODY IS ADDING ENHANCEMENTS TO ITS PEDESTRIAN SAFETY NETWORK WITH A SIDEWALK EXTENSION AND TWO CROSSWALKS WITH NEW PEDESTRIAN REFUGE ISLANDS. “The crosswalk work will begin in the next 10 days, weather permitting,” said Dunwoody Public Works Director Michael Smith in early November. “We’re targeting two locations where the high vehicular traffic volume makes it more difficult for pedestrians to find gaps for crossing the roadway.” The pedestrian refuge islands are being funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). Together, they will cost $450,000. They will be added in the following two locations: + Mount Vernon Road at North Peachtree Road: A new crosswalk and pedestrian refuge island will be added here to connect the Kingsley neighborhood with the shopping center across the street. Paving crews will first resurface Mount Vernon Road between Jett Ferry Road and Dunwoody Club Drive in preparation for the new refuge island and lane striping. + Tilly Mill Road and Andover Drive: At this location, the new refuge island will improve the safety of an existing crosswalk. Before the work begins, Georgia Power will need to relocate two utility poles. New drainage pipes and curb work is expected to begin in December. Refuge islands allow pedestrians to cross traffic one lane at a time and provide increased visibility of the crossing. They also reduce the perceived roadway width, which can help lower speeds. Another safety enhancement was just completed at Windwood Hollow Park, an 11-acre park on Lakeside Drive. Dunwoody Public Works extended the sidewalk to connect the linear park by the reservoir on Peeler Road with the park, allowing for greater access to amenities, including tennis courts and a handicap-accessible playground.
December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
21
PAGE TURNERS
Season’s Readings DECK YOUR SHELVES WITH THESE NEW HOLIDAY RELEASES
ARTICLE RHIANNON JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
ARE YOU LOOKING TO COOK UP A CULINARY YOUR
MASTERPIECE,
OWN
CREATE
CUSTOMIZED
BOARD
GAME, OR CURL UP WITH SOME COZY NOVELS
THIS
HOLIDAY
SEASON?
Whatever your winter mood, we have the perfect new releases for giving as gifts or adding to your own collection.
BOARD GAMES TO CREATE AND PLAY: INVENT 100S OF GAMES WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY BY KEVAN DAVIS, VIVIANE SCHWARZ (ILLUSTRATED BY) Take Game Night to the next level by creating your own unique board games. This interactive gaming book is packed with 20 customizable and reusable boards along with tips, tricks, and mechanics on how to design the perfect game.
SOUTH: ESSENTIAL RECIPES AND NEW EXPLORATIONS BY SEAN BROCK “Best Chef Southeast” James Beard Award winner and devoted evangelist for Southern cuisine, Sean Brock is back with a beautiful new cookbook full of recipes for Southern-food lovers. 22
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
VEGAN HOLIDAY COOKING: 60 MEATLESS, DAIRY-FREE RECIPES FULL OF FESTIVE FLAVORS BY KIRSTEN KAMINSKI Whether you are looking to add a few healthier offerings to lighten up your holiday meal or you want to make a full menu of delicious vegan dishes, this cookbook covers every course from appetizer to dessert, with many recipes reminiscent of comforting holiday favorites.
THE ULTIMATE KIDS’ BAKING BOOK: 60 EASY AND FUN DESSERT RECIPES FOR EVERY HOLIDAY, BIRTHDAY, MILESTONE AND MORE BY TIFFANY DAHLE Suitable for children 6 and up this book modifies recipes to help kids learn the basics of baking (how to use a mixer to cream butter and sugar, how to melt chocolate) with a little parental involvement (preheating or taking cakes from the oven,) helping families spend time together and teaching children lifelong kitchen skills.
CHRISTMAS SHOPAHOLIC BY SOPHIE KINSELLA Becky Brandon (née Bloomwood) returns in a festive new Shopaholic adventure filled with holiday cheer and unexpected gifts. Becky’s hosting Christmas this year and her big-hearted plans are quickly taking an unexpected turn towards disaster. Will chaos ensue or will she manage to bring comfort and joy to Christmas after all?
LET IT SNOW BY NANCY THAYER As Christina Antonioni decorates and unpacks some last minute Christmas shipments at her Nantucket toy store, she wonders if she’ll be able to keep her business open when her landlord raises her rent. But after bonding with her landlord’s sweet, young granddaughter who frequents the shop, Christina quickly realizes this Christmas may turn out better than she ever imagined.
WHITE ELEPHANT BY TRISH HARNETIAUX A real estate firm’s yearly White Elephant gift exchange is all about bragging rights for who can buy the most coveted gift, so everyone is puzzled when an antique cowboy statue shows up—everyone except the firm’s owner and his wife. Over the course of the evening, they must figure out who brought the statue and what secrets they know. December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
23
INSPIRED BY
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DIFFERENT MODEL OF HEALTH CARE OFFERED AT HIPNATION IN ALPHARETTA, WE SAT DOWN WITH BRIAN HILL, MD, FOUNDER, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER. SGC: HIPNATION BELIEVES THAT INSURANCE SHOULD BE USED ONLY FOR THE HIGHCOST HEALTH EVENTS—NOT THINGS LIKE PHYSICALS, THE MANAGEMENT OF ONGOING MEDICAL CONDITIONS, OR THE COMMON COLD. HOW CAN WE SWITCH GEARS OUT OF THE MEDIAL INSURANCE MENTALITY?
WHEN HEALTHCARE CARES ABOUT YOU
THERE'S AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE BIG MEDICAL INSURANCE GAME
BH: By simply looking at the auto insurance industry. You use your auto insurance when you have an accident—not when you put gas in your car, replace your windshield wipers, or change your oil. If those items were purchased through insurance, they would be significantly more expensive due to the all those working within that payment system. 24
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Taking insurance out of primary care removes 2-3 administrators from the physician’s office who don’t provide healthcare but instead only work with the insurance company. This simple step removes excess cost and re-focuses the office exclusively on patient care. SGC: HOW DOES THE MEMBERSHIP AND PAYMENT WORK? BH: For $100/month, membership in HIPnation provides access to your primary care physician through extended office visits, phone calls, texting and telemedicine. There are no copays or costs for accessing your physician. This is covered through the membership fee. This also gives you access to HIPnation-negotiated pricing for labs, imaging, and specialty services with prices that are 30-90% less than what most people are paying now. Then we pair our membership with unique insurance products, which cover our members for the “big stuff.” This combination leads to better healthcare at less cost along with more affordable insurance. SGC: HOW DO PATIENTS WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS NEW CARE MODEL? BH: HIPnation is a complete healthcare solution. Within our model, patients receive the quality care you’d expect from a concierge physician, plus they have access to HIPnation-negotiated pricing for labs, imaging, and specialty services. This model not only drives down costs, but studies show that people who have access to great primary care live longer, happier, healthier lives. SGC: WHAT IS THE GREATEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT CONCIERGE MEDICINE? BH: That it is only for the wealthy. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity for quality healthcare and now they can. Our solution is generally up to 50% less than the traditional insurance-focused approach for individuals and up to 30% less for employer groups—and our members also receive this high-level concierge-style care! Less cost and better healthcare. This is why we call HIPnation smarter healthcare. 2500 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 210, Alpharetta HipNation.com December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
25
LOCAL LIMELIGHT @Caryn Oxford Photography
A DEEP RESPECT FOR DIFFERENCE IS A WAY OF LIFE AT WOODWARD ACADEMY. Our students and faculty bring a variety of races, cultures, ethnicities, and learning styles as well as the beautiful differences of their various religious faiths. Woodward offers many avenues for students to honor their traditions and share them with classmates from other faiths. Every step of the way, from pre-K to 12th grade, students can grow together spiritually.
Religious
In pre-K to sixth grade, students learn from Upper School interfaith student leaders who mentor them and teach them about holidays and culture. Our younger students can join interfaith clubs where they can share their faith and learn about others. In Middle School, we support students as they prepare for their Bat and Bar Mitzvahs and other landmark faith celebrations,
Diversity, Inclusion
and as they further discover their own relationship to religion. Seventh and eighth graders can join a variety of faith-based clubs and activities. In Upper School, Woodward offers a Comparative Religions course as well as a Multicultural, Ethnic, and Diversity Studies course, both of which expand our students’ academic understanding of different faith traditions, their cultures, and their histories. Additionally, many students choose to explore religion through our different clubs. Our Chaplain’s Council is the religious leadership group on campus and plans and executes religious celebrations and opportunities for interfaith learning and prayer across campus. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes builds community learning and action at the intersection of the Christian faith
STUDENTS CELEBRATE AT SCHOOL
and athletics. The Muslim Awareness Club brings Muslim traditions, cultures, and faith to Woodward and creates a space for Muslim students and those interested to gather and celebrate. Yad B’Yad offers an opportunity to learn about or deepen
ARTICLE MARTHA POLK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WOODWARD ACADEMY
connections to Judaism; share in Jewish culture, faith, and issues; and bring Jewish traditions and celebrations to life on Woodward’s campus. The Catholic Identity Club is for all those who wish to share, learn, and discuss Catholicism and related issues, and our Hindu Cultural Association offers a space for Hindu students and those interested in Hinduism to learn, build community, and bring Hindu culture and traditions to life on campus.
26
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
@Caryn Oxford Photography
/02
Ha nuk kah The Festival of Lights commemorates the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem and the Miracle of the Oil in the Jewish tradition. Our students
/03
Kw a n z a a Celebrated by many North Americans of West African descent, this holiday recognizes African heritage. The candles of a seven-branched candelabrum, representing attributes such as unity, self-determination, responsibility, and cooperative economics, As a school, we also make time to come together for interfaith
purpose, creativity, and faith, are succes-
field trips, discussion, education, and celebration. When events
sively lit over the seven days of the festival.
happen in our community or the broader world that are worthy of deep communal contemplation, we come together for interfaith prayer and reflection. Throughout the month of December, students in our community celebrate all different traditions, including:
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Advent a nd Christmas
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I nter fa ith Celebrations We bring these traditions and others including, Islamic and Hindu traditions and celebrations, together through interfaith prayer
The first Sunday of Advent begins the period of preparation for
services, school-wide announcements, his-
Christmas, as one candle is lit each week to represent hope, joy,
tory and cultural learning projects, and our
peace, and love.
annual holiday concert. December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
27
FINANCIAL BUZZ
Planning for the Ds
ADVICE FROM AN ESTATE PLANNER AND ATTORNEY ARTICLE KELLEY NAPIER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
D IS FOR DO YOUR PLANNING If you have experienced any of these life events this year, it is time to start or update your estate planning.
Kelley is an attorney with Brannon Napier Elder Law, LLC, Elder Law / Estate Planning / Special Needs Planning. 2900 Chamblee Tucker Road. 770.854.0688
1
I DO Whether it is your first marriage or your sixth, your spouse is now entitled to between one-third and all of
your estate if you don’t update your planning. You need a new Will to direct just how much your new spouse and other beneficiaries inherit at your death.
2
DIVORCE
4
DEATH OF SPOUSE Once you have spent some time grieving, you should update your planning documents. Since so many
No matter how good your relationship
of us name our spouse, you likely need a
with your ex-spouse, once you divorce
new agent on your Power of Attorney and
they are dead to you, at least with
Advance Directive for Health Care. You
regard to your estate planning. The divorce
may also need a new executor and update
decree automatically removes them from
your beneficiaries.
any estate planning documents you signed during or before your marriage.
3
DELIVERY
5
DIAGNOSIS A scary diagnosis like cancer or dementia leads many people to start
The birth or adoption of a new child or
their planning. This is your chance to give
grandchild should spur you to review
directions for your finances and care in case
your planning. If your Will does not
you become too ill to manage your own
contemplate a new family member a child
affairs. A Financial Power of Attorney and
may receive an unintended share, while a
Advance Directive for Health Care allow you
grandchild may unintentionally be excluded.
to name agents and direct their actions.
December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
29
OCT 23 WICKED AT THE FOX THEATRE 660 Peachtree Street Northeast
The
Broadway
sensation
DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
WICKED
looks at what happened in the Land of
Healthcare is Too
EXPENSIVE IT DOESN’T NEED TO BE.
It’s time to UPGRADE to Smarter Healthcare. No primary care copays. Accessible by phone, secure text, or telemedicine.
Oz…but from a different angle. WICKED will play at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre
October 23-November 17, 2019. The performance schedule is as follows:
Tuesday-Thursday 7:30 p.m. Friday 8
p.m. Saturday 2 p.m., 8 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m., 6:30 p.m. Matinee performance on Thursday, October 24 at 1 p.m.
NOV 15 SANTA'S FANTASTICAL
Up to 50%-60% savings for individuals.
1155 Mt. Vernon Hwy
Enjoy a whimsical indoor holiday des-
Up to 30% savings for employers.
tination where the season comes alive
Over 20 metro Atlanta locations.
through interactive experiences, live performances, state-of-the-art technol-
“The HIPnation model lets my doctor and his staff engage in the kind of high-touch, high-quality medical care that we all want.” - HIPnation member P.S.
ogy, and Instagram-worthy moments. Grand opening on November 15, 2019 and runs through January 5, 2020.
1 TOUR OF TREES
129 Union Co Recreation Rd, Blairsville
The entire month of December enjoy over 40 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths will be displayed throughout the Union County Community Center. The ornaments and lights are sure to put the whole family into the Christmas spirit! This event is also great for family photos.
6 SEASON OF CELEBRATION Downtown Alpharetta
To kick off the holiday season Downtown Alpharetta will Light the Night for the
info@HIPnation.com
HIPnation.com
888.676.6007
Annual Tree Lighting. Celebration fills the downtown streets with our annual CONTINUED >
30
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
Taking care of your Furry Family members for 48 years! DUNWOODY ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Douglas H. Morgan, DVM Morgan T. Everett, DVM
Accredited member since 1974
770-394-4030 | www.dunwoodyanimal.com | 5450 Chamblee Dunwoody Road | Dunwoody, GA 30338
SUPERIOR OUTCOMES
Dual Board Certified Urogynegologist Same Day Appointments All insurance types accepted including Medicare
Putting you at the center of care. Every time.
Our specialties include: Urinary Incontinence
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Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Low Libido
Menopausal Symptoms
Locations in Alpharetta, Athens and opening soon in Buckhead
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY 678-416-8284 www.advancedgynecology.com December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
31
DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR tree lighting, musical performances, snow, photos with Santa, restaurants
and food trucks, roasting marshmallows, and more!
7
HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS AND BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Union County Community Center
Come join us at the Union County
Community Center. Enjoy pictures with Santa, games, the Mayor’s
Christmas train, a gingerbread village, crafts, storytelling, live music,
and more. If you’re feeling crafty,
drop off your beautifully decorated Gingerbread house to the Community NEWSTYLE® HYBRID SHUTTERS
Center on Friday, December 6th between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to be featured in the gingerbread village!
7 HERITANCE® HARDWOOD SHUTTERS
PALM BEACHTM POLYSATINTM SHUTTERS
So Many Choices To Create Timeless Style Genuine hardwood, polysatin™ or hybrid materials? A rich stain or subtle color? Quality choices abound throughout our Custom Shutters—all backed by a lifetime guarantee. Make an investment in your home’s style today.
Custom Shutters
Classic Blinds & Shutters Design Center 488 N Main St Ste 109 Alpharetta, GA M-F: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sun: Closed 770-924-0282 www.classicblindsandshutters.com
FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA Alpharetta Welcome Center
The
Alpharetta
Convention
and
Visitors Bureau is hosting a “Free Pictures
With
Santa”
event
on
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Families are encouraged to stop by for a complimentary individual or family photo with Santa Claus. A photo will be printed onsite and emailed to each person, so it can be shared with family and friends.
8 SPARKLE SANDY SPRINGS (KICKOFF EVENT)
488 N Main St Ste 109, Alpharetta, GA
1 Galambos Way
This free holiday display will kick
M-F: 10 am - 5 pm | Sat: 10 am - 3 pm Sun: Closed
off with music performances, food
(770) 924-0282 | classicblindsandshutters.com
wooden houses painted in festive
trucks, hot chocolate and more. City Green will be adorned with large themes. The area will be adorned with lights to create a walkable light
32
Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
display. After opening, the display will be open daily until December 31, with lights only visible at night.
13
SPA • MAKEUP • SKIN CARE • BEAUTY
"HOLIDAY INN" PRESENTED BY CITY SPRINGS THEATRE COMPANY 1 Galambos Way
Celebrate the holidays at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center with City Springs Theatre Company’s winter production, Holiday Inn. The festive and fun musical features exciting dance numbers, dazzling performances and several of Irving Berlin’s hit holiday songs, including the ever popular “White Christmas.”
14 15TH ANNUAL VOGEL STATE PARK TREE LIGHTING 405 Vogel State Park Road
Join us for an evening of celebration of the true meaning of Christmas. Hayrides, music, and activities lead up to the Christmas Program and Lighting of the Tree. Please bring an unwrapped gift for a child 12 or
Your New Neighborhood Luxury Beauty Store & Spa
younger for the Sheriff's Dpt. Kids will love the caroling, hayrides, Santa Claus visit, bonfire, hot chocolate and cider.
31 NOON YEAR'S EVE Avalon
Have little ones with early bedtimes? Kick off your New Year’s celebration early and come out to Avalon’s Noon Year’s Eve Party at The Hotel at Avalon! This family friendly event invites partygoers of all ages to ring in 2020 with live music, face painting, crafts, and countdown to Noon when a giant balloon drop will welcome the
(404) 858-3800 www.esthetiqueskinspa.com
New Year! December 2019 | Perimeter North Lifestyle
33
LOCAL’S CHOICE
Editor' s
1.
3.
Giving Guide
2.
BECAUSE GIVING FEELS SO GOOD ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS
6.
4.
AND MOLLY S. COLLINS
5.
1. ERICA KEY CANDLES Food blogger Erica Key turned her passion for flavors into a line of candles. EWE Candles are made from soy wax, burning cleaner and
7.
producing 90 percent less soot than paraffin. The Frasier Fir is our favorite. EatingWithErica.com 2. LISTEN UP The first thing to note about theses 99 NEO Meze over-the-ear headphones, besides the lux packaging, is their comfort. The man-
8.
ganese spring steel headband delivers even pressure across your head. The earpads are crafted of medium density memory foam so you can get lost in your music for hours. The sound quality is unparalleled. MezeAudio.com 3. GRILLMASTER’S DREAM “SmokeBloq is the thermometer I always wanted but could never
6. SCENT THE HALLS
find, so I decided to build it myself,” said inventor Jack Calhoun, of
Tocca Fragrance Diffusers in Bergamot-Gardenia, Grapefruit-
Sandy Springs. The free SmokeBloq app enables users to monitor their
Cucumber, Italian Blood Orange are Karyn, our Senior Ad Manager's
cooks anywhere they have their phone. $139.99 SmokeBloq.com
favorite. $48. 5840 Roswell Road. EsthétiquebyElaineSterling.com
4. BOLD PHOTOS, BOLD FLAVOR
7. CRAZY SHARP
Recipes are heavy on flavor and light on fuss. TEX-MEX: Traditions,
These 67 layers of high-quality Japanese VG-10 steel made slicing
Innovations and Comfort Foods from Both Sides of the Border. You
through the roast beast effortless. A subscription-based service pre-
know Chef Ford Fry from his restaurants The El Felix, St. Cecilia,
ships an identical set of knives for an equally as effortless return of your
Superica, King and Duke, The Optimist and JCT Kitchen. ($29.99)
dull knives. 3-piece knife set – $880 FNSharp.com
5. JAM IS LOVE
8. BECAUSE YOU’RE BLESSED
Jennifer Burns, a working mother of four, has a passion for
Erin Gray Morton lives in Buckhead and gives back 10 percent
cooking healthy and delicious food. She created Emily G’s a
of each purchase to non-profits to honor her mother and late step
Dunwoody-based family business, along with her loving husband
mother-in-law’s cancer battles. The tiny gold crosses that dangle
and their four sweet jammin’ daughters. The triple berry jam
from “chiclet” bracelets remind me I’m blessed. Every day. $24.
tasted like summer. EmilyGs.com
ErinGrayDesign.com
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Perimeter North Lifestyle | December 2019
#homeisyourplayground
LINDSAY LEVIN J.D. | MBA | REALTOR® | The Atlanta Real Estate Insider. Chairman’s Gold Winner - top 2% BHHS Agents Globally Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Direct: 404.667.3232 • Office: 770.393.3200 Lindsay@ATLREInsider.com • www.AtlantaRealEstateInsider.com © 2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHHS, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.