Alpharetta, GA December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

Holiday Fanfare!

HOTEL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE CELEBRATING DIVERSITY, INCLUSION COLLECTIBLE ORNAMENTS

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

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Ornament from Diane Johnson Interiors, where Diane has decked the halls, and then some!

Sue Collins | scollins@lifestylepubs.com MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

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!

Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dennis Malcolm Byron CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

While I am entranced with him, I also feel a deepening love for my daughter, his mother.

Lydia Mayfield

I'm so amazed at her patience, positivity, and confidence. Watching her settle into 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 REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Sue G. Collins, Editor

ON THE COVER Diane Johnson chose

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

some of her favorite ornaments for this

IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

issue and we loved this royal trumpeter,

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

announcing the holidays here in Alpharetta.

DianeJohnsonInteriors.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYDIA MAYFIELD. LYDIAMAYFIELD.COM (Many congratulations to Lydia and Preston Mayfield on the birth of their beautiful baby girl, June Cecilia!)

4

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Alpharetta 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 Alpharetta 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

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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

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MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9AM - 6PM

MONDAY-SATURDAY: 8AM - 6PM

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 22 Scooting Across the Country Alpharetta Man Shares His Story

16 28

28 Bling for your tree Diane Johnson Dresses our Tree

22

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Inspired By

16

Local Limelight

24 Travel Destination 28 Local’s Choice 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Giving Back

Stay radiant all season long with rejuvenating MedSpa treatments at The Graivier Center or get holiday ready with one of our master RN injectors.

Make sure to follow us on Instagram to learn about our monthly specials and top-of-the-line MedSpa services. #beautywithin

@graiviercenter

GOOD TIMES

Introducing Phase Family Center 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/

Free

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

AROUND TOWN The Overlook at Old Atlanta includes a beautiful clubhouse, fitness room, outdoor pool, tennis courts and community garden, as well as floor plans designed so residents can downsize without giving up quality and luxury. Several attached villas are move-in ready.

JimChapmanCommunities.com

WELLNESS AT THE HOLIDAY Give the gift of wellness and stress management this holiday season with a gift card or voucher from Grey Owl Mind-Body Studio in Johns Creek. Grey Owl specializes in all levels of yoga classes, meditation, aerial yoga, qigong, and barefoot dance. They also offer self-care services such as energy healing, infrared heat/PEMF, and Thai yoga bodywork. Join them on December

FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY

15th for a special Full Day Silent Retreat to help

Conveniently located in the heart of Alpharetta,

bring greater peace, reflection, and mindfulness

The Legacy at Phase is the perfect place to host

to the holiday season. GreyOwlMB.com 6250

your next gathering. Seating up to 600 guests

Abbotts Bridge Road, Suite 500. 770-558-6859

theater-style and 250 for a seated dinner, The Legacy provides tables and chairs, a list of the most trusted vendors, top of the line in-house A/V equipment, and a private green room. Whatever the occasion, the team at The Legacy Theater can help you build the perfect, memorable event.

For more information email alpharetta@phasecommons.com or call 470.239.2483.

SANTA TUCK-INS “Tuck-ins with Santa” has returned to The Hotel at Avalon. Atlanta’s best staycation hotel offers a unique and delightful experience for children of all ages. The magic begins with a knock-knock-knock on the door, a smile spreads from ear to ear as the sound

DOWNSIZE NEARBY

Mrs. Claus arrive for a bedtime snack with

One of the newest 55+ communities near

the jolly man in red. $85 per child, $15 for

Johns Creek, The Overlook at Old Atlanta, is

each additional child. Book in advance, rooms

enjoying brisk home sales. Baby boomers, in

at Marriott.com/atlre and “Tuck-in” experience

particular, love the outstanding location and

at TheHotelAtAvalon.com

spacious, one-level living options. Developed by award-winning Jim Chapman Communities, 10

of reindeer bells fills the room and Santa and

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

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INSPIRED BY

Editor's Gift Guide 01

BECAUSE GIVING FEELS SO GOOD ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY SUE G. COLLINS & PROVIDED 02

01. TO YOU, FROM YOU The new HydraFacial at the Graivier Center is quick, with red-carpet results. It cleanses and peels, extracts and hydrates, saturates and protects with a tiny wand and trained aesthetician’s skilled hand. Ask her to add a booster to solve your skin issues. Finishes with J.Harper EGF cream (available for $60). HydraFacial $285. 3333 Old Milton Pkwy, TheGraivierCenter.com 03

02. BECAUSE...SHINY AND SPARKLY Diamond Starburst Pendant necklace on an adjustable 16-inch cable link chain.

It features .58 cttw of diamonds in18 karat white gold. $2,135. Solomon Brothers Jewelers. Now open in Alpharetta. SolomonBrothers.com

04

03. FOR THE FOODIE Atlanta Chef Pano Karatossos launched a line of cooking and food products imported from Greece titled “Chef Pano.” We loved the smooth and rich Extra Virgin Olive Oil and his cookbook, Modern Greek Cooking. Amazon and Buckhead Life Restaurant locations. Cookbook - $25, Olive Oil - $34. ChefPano.com 04. CRAZY SHARP Damascus steel with a hassle-free sharpening subscription model. These 67 layers of high-quality Japanese VG-10 steel made slicing through the roast beast effortless. A Subscription-based service pre-ships an identical set of F.N. Sharp knives for an easy return of your dull knives (gifting options available). 3-piece knife set – $880 FNSharp.com

05

05. CHRISTMAS EVE ROBE The terry is 70% wood fiber and 30% cotton and sateen banded edges are 100% wood fiber, created from wood pulp harvested from managed forests in Italy. Unbelievably soft and luxurious. Legna Terry Robe. $394. Gattles.com.

06

06. LISTEN UP The first thing to note about 99 NEO Meze over-the-ear headphones, besides the lux packaging, is their comfort. The stamped manganese 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. Parts are fully serviceable. MezeAudio.com 07. DECK THE HALLS WITH CHARD Manique Chardonnay from Patagonia, Argentina. A dynamic partnership with famed Burgundy producer Jean-Marc Roulot and Piero Incisa della Rocchetta (grandson of the founder of Sassicaia) brings about a Chardonnay with energy, finesse, and perfect 07

12

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

balance. $53.99. Grapes & Grains, 3719 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek.

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

YOUR REALTOR FOR

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

Samuel Victoria MD

5 Convenient Locations in:

Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell 1-800-VEIN-DOC 770-771-5260

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(770) 393-9000 | ASC-PSD.COM REFERENCES: 1. Suh DH, Choi JH, Lee SJ, et al. Comparative histometric analysis of the effects of high-intensity focused ultrasound and radiofrequency on the skin. J Cosmet Laser Ther.

2015;17(5):230-236. 2. Ulthera Instructions For Use. The non-invasive Ultherapy® procedure is U.S. FDA-cleared to lift skin on the neck, on the eyebrow, and under the chin as well as to improve lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials were redness, swelling, pain and transient nerve effects. Reported adverse events from post-marking surveillance are available in the Instructions for Use (IFU). Please see the IFU for product and safety information, including a full list of these events at Ultherapy.com/IFU. All rights reserved. Ulthera® and Ultherapy® are registered trademarks of Ulthera®, Inc. © 2019 Ulthera, Inc. ML01876-02 May 2019

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Religious Diversity, Inclusion STUDENTS CELEBRATE AT SCHOOL

ARTICLE MARTHA POLK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WOODWARD ACADEMY

16

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

@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.

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, and as they further NEWSTYLE® HYBRID SHUTTERS

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’

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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 and athletics.

The Muslim Awareness Club brings Muslim traditions, cultures, and faith to Woodward and creates a space for Muslim students and those

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interested to gather and celebrate. Yad B’Yad offers an opportunity to learn about or deepen 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.

488 N Main St Ste 109, Alpharetta, GA M-F: 10 am - 5 pm | Sat: 10 am - 3 pm Sun: Closed (770) 924-0282 | classicblindsandshutters.com

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

17

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

(CON TI N U ED)

@Caryn Oxford Photography

As a school, we also make time to come together for interfaith field trips, discussion, education, and celebration. When events 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:

/0 1 Advent a nd Christmas The first Sunday of Advent begins the period of preparation for Christmas, as one candle is lit each week to represent hope, joy, peace, and love.

18

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

/02

Ha nu k ka h 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

Americans

of

many West

North 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, purpose, creativity, and faith, are successively lit over the seven days of the festival.

/04

VICTORIARENOVATIONS.COM

I n t e r fa i t h Celebrations

♦

We bring these traditions and others

including,

Islamic

and

Hindu traditions and celebrations, together through interfaith prayer

services,

school-wide

announcements, history and cultural learning projects, and our annual holiday concert.

December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

19

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

1.

one—or many—of these gift ideas will help.

Many blessings!

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 2. Cords are so yesteryear, so enter 1MORE Stylish True 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, 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 20

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

2.

3.

4.

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 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, 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 5.

6.

December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

21

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MATT SCHNEIDER

SCOOTING ACROSS THE COUNTRY ALPHARETTA MAN SHARES HIS STORY

I WAS BORN WITH KIDNEY DISEASE. My kidneys were `10 percent functional until I was 10 years old. I had my first kidney transplant when I was 11 years old. Over the past 32 years since then I have had three more kidney transplants. I am one of the luckiest people I know. If it wasn’t for my mother, my father, my younger brother and my angel donor, I would not have lived past 10. I have had four people save my life. I have many friends who weren’t so lucky. There are 114,000 people waiting on the national organ waiting list who wish they were as lucky as I have been.

I have been a volunteer in the Atlanta transplant

community

since

I

was

a

16-year-old sophomore at Chattahoochee High School in 1993. I have volunteered at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Camp Independence (a summer camp for children with organ transplants), Team Georgia in the Transplant Games of America and many others for years. I wanted to do more for both the people waiting on the national waiting list and the many friends I’ve lost over the years to organ failure complications.

One year ago I came up with the idea of scooting across the country on a mobility 22

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

scooter for organ donor awareness and registration. The idea started all the way back when I was just 7 years old. I remember watching a movie called The Terry Fox Story on HBO and it has stuck

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with me my entire life. Terry Fox was an 18-year-old cancer patient who lost his leg to the disease and still attempted to run across Canada on a prosthetic leg to raise money for cancer research. Even as a young child, it affected me.

Not only was I born with kidney disease, but I was also born with hip dysplasia. That means both of my hips are dislocated. I was never able to get this repaired, but I have still been able to get around with no assistance.

As I’ve gotten older, my hips have gotten worse and I had to start using a cane to walk.

It is bad enough that I have had to start using a mobility scooter to go long distances, like sporting events. At first, my pride wouldn’t let me use a scooter, but after awhile, I gave in. That’s when I realized what I had been missing going short distances.

When I started using my mobility scooter more, Terry Fox came to mind. Then I listened to a podcast about someone walking

Dr.Vargas AND

TEAM WISH YOU A

Happy Holiday Season!

across the country and it all came together.

I will try what Terry Fox tried, but to raise awareness for organ donation. I thought my idea would be easier because I’m not raising money. I’m just raising awareness.

Earlier this year I started raising money and planning my trip. I got a scooter from

Please call to schedule your next visit at 678-474-4917

Trikaroo in Florida and went down to Miami where I had my first transplant from my mother in 1987. I had enough money and a driver to make it 1,515 miles to Nashville, Tennessee. My plans didn’t extend to cross the country but I’m not a quitter, so I sat down and started making new plans.

My new route will take me from Hilton

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Head to San Francisco. I will be scooting 40-50 miles per day for 135 days from mid-February to July, 2020. You can follow my journey on Scooting4donors.com and help register more organ donors to help those 114,000 people waiting for life-saving organs.

Are you an organ donor? Let’s help those people who weren’t as lucky as me!

5805 State Bridge Road Johns Creek, Georgia 30097 208 Pirkle ferry Rd., Cumming, GA 30040 678-474-4917 | smilegeorgia.com December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

23

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 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 24

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

Ritz-Carlton, Boston

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

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on Wednesdays). The recent renovation means even more comfortable bedding and a luxe bathroom to call your own.

Marriott.com 404.563.7900

CONTINUED >

www.searssmithlandscape.com December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

25

TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

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

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 Shinola Hotel

Getaway

G e t a w ay 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 26

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

Nopsi Hotel

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 bar and Public Service restaurant. Central location, beautiful vibe.

NOPSIHotel.com

December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

27

LOCAL’S CHOICE

IF YOU NEED TO BOOST YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT, VISIT DIANE JOHNSON INTERIORS IN ALPHARETTA. The showroom is bursting with cheer, a half dozen Christmas trees dressed to impress. The ornaments each have special appeal- from whimsical to traditional including much-anticipated collectors lines that Diane curates every year. Look for holiday-themed hostess gifts, home decor accents and table linens in traditional and modern designs.

We had fun choosing ornaments with Diane and her team for our Lifestyle Publications virtual tree. We are all so grateful to be celebrating another holiday season together, nearly five years of publishing this community magazine. We are thankful for your attention every month and wish you all a blessed and joyful season! Now, deck those halls!

Bling For Your TREE

DIANE JOHNSON DRESSES OUR TREE PHOTOGRAPHY LYDIA MAYFIELD

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

divorce sucks. your lawyer shouldn’t.

Divorce | Child Custody

9925 HAYNES BRIDGE RD # 720, ALPHARETTA DianeJohnsonInteriors.com Open 10AM - 5PM

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Asset Division

404-751-8868

B R E NNE R LAWG RO U P.CO M 555 Sun Valley Drive, Suite N-4 Roswell, Georgia 30076

Monday - Saturday December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

29

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

What is

home?

4 NIGHT RIDE

Big Creek Park 1600 Old Alabama Road

Join a nighttime mountain bike ride in Roswell's Big Creek Park. This is a Roswell Parks & Rec event and you must be registered by noon the day of the ride to participate. Register by visiting Roswellgov.com/register using program number 13699.

6 SEASON OF CELEBRATION Downtown Alpharetta

To kick off the holiday season Downtown Alpharetta will Light the Night for the Annual Tree Lighting.

Celebration

fills

the

downtown

streets with our annual tree light-

Maybe it’s trying a new recipe with the grandkids.

Maybe it’s catching up with a friend.

Maybe it’s the aroma of freshly baked bread.

We think it’s all of the above.

Maybe that’s why so many people call Alto home.

ing, musical performances, snow, photos with Santa, restaurants and food trucks, roasting marshmallows, and more!

6 CANDY CANES AND COCKTAILS ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA The Manor Golf & Country Club

Join local business owners and partners for this annual event benefiting

To learn more, call 678-951-8365 or visit AltoAlpharetta.com.

local non-profits. Event sponsored

by Wellstar North Fulton Hospital.

AlpharettaChamber.com.

7 FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA Alpharetta Welcome Center

The

Alpharetta

Visitors

Bureau

Convention

and

is

free

hosting

4125 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30022

pictures with Santa. Families are

Assisted Living | Memory Care

mentary individual or family photo

encouraged to stop by for a compliwith Santa Claus. A photo will be

30

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

DECEMBER

printed onsite and emailed instantly to each person to share with family and friends.

7

Nothing you wear is more important than your smile...

GIVE YOURS THE CARE IT DESERVES

MEET THE ARTIST

Alpharetta Branch Library

Georgia artist Loretta Paraguassu will be on the lower level of the library to meet patrons and answer all of your questions. Her art will be on display throughout the month of December.

10 ALPHARETTA LIBRARY CRAFT CLUB

Alpharetta Branch Library

Holiday wishes from Dr. Golsen and her team!

Looking for some artistic inspiration?

Enjoy spending time with other likeminded people while doing your own self directed project? No registration is necessary. Free and all are welcome. Questions? Please email: momacharlie@hotmail.com

13 CE-JOLLY JINGLE JAM

Alpharetta Community Center

Jill M. Golsen, DMD

Ages 2-6. Get in the holiday spirit with your little one as you make holiday crafts, enjoy light refreshments, play a candy cane match, and take a photo with Santa. Please come dressed for outdoor activity.

Register early as this event fill up fast!

This event is for parent and child.

ActiveKids.com

14

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GRINCHMAS PARTY

Alpharetta Community Center

We got an idea, an awful idea, a

www.GolsenDental.com

3400-A Old Milton Parkway, Suite 430, Alpharetta

wonderful awful idea! We are having CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

31

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR GALA PROM BRIDAL PAGEANT COUTURE EVENING WEAR MOTHER OF BRIDE

a very grinchy party. 'Tis no better reason to celebrate the season than to decorate it Red, White, and Grinch. We will have good eats and make things that are neat. Come celebrate Grinchmas at the ACC! Alpharetta.ga.us

31 AVALON’S NOON YEAR’S EVE The Hotel at Avalon

Have little ones with early bedtimes?

Kick off your New Year’s celebration early. This family-friendly event invites partygoers of all ages to ring in 2020 with live music, face painting, crafts, and the countdown to Noon when a giant balloon drop will welcome in the New Year! Marriott.com

BERTA MUSE BY BERTA ZUHAIR MURAD MARCHESA WALID SHEHAB SAIID KOBEISY NETTA BENSHABU

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via

the

Contact

Us

tab

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com.

32

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

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33

GIVING BACK

THE MARY JOAN KEENEY EDUCATION FUND ARTICLE PAMELA MCKEMIE

WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2017 TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF JOAN KEENEY AND HER DEDICATION

TO

CONTINUING

EDUCATION.

In 1992, at the age of 59, she attended Denver Seminary in Denver and completed a life-long dream of earning a Master’s in Counseling.

Upon graduation, she volunteered as a grief and bereavement counselor at The First Presbyterian Church in Boulder. Her life passion was helping others heal and return to love.

In partnership with North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) based in Alpharetta, NFCChelp.org, the Mary Joan Keeney Fund assists selected NFCC clients achieve educational and occupational goals by providing financial assistance. The purpose of the fund is to provide women interested in healthcare and mental health careers access to funds to further their education and certification. Ultimately, our mission is to help students achieve educational goals that will allow them to serve others in need of compassionate quality healthcare.

In 2018 the MJK Education Fund awarded grants to two extraordinary women. George Ann Daniels was the first recipient; she com-

Honoring Education THE MARY JOAN KEENEY EDUCATION FUND

pleted her Certified Nurse Assistant program at Kennesaw State University in December of 2018. She is currently working as a Patient Care Technician at Northside Hospital and occasional weekends at Arbor Terrace, an assisted living facility. She hopes to continue her education and become a registered nurse. “I love the residents and they touch my heart deeply, it’s amazing the lives I am able to touch. Because of the support of the MJK fund I am now able to return to the healthcare field; I am very happy and thankful for the opportunity to serve others.”

Ivy Kani is the second recipient of the MJK fund, she is currently enrolled at Georgia State University and is studying to become a Registered Nurse. Her goals are to work in a hospital and eventually set up a health clinic to assist children in her home country, Zambia. She recently said, “the financial assistance from the MJK Fund will help me achieve my career goals, I would not have gone this far without the encouragement, love and kindness I have received.”

If you have further questions about the Mary Joan Keeney Education Fund, please contact Pam McKemie, 404.561.3943 or pmckemie@bellsouth.net.

34

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2019

PARENTS, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. At Phase Family Center, we’re here to help your family win.

It’s time to experience daycare reimagined.

PRESCHOOL AFTER SCHOOL HOURLY CARE

WE BELIEVE

EVERY CHILD IS A

EACH PARENT IS A

EVERY TEACHER

OUR SPACE IS THE

NATURAL ARTIST

CHILD’S FIRST AND

IS A CHAMPION

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AND SCIENTIST.

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INSPIRING LEARNING.

AND FAMILIES.

Call today to schedule your tour, or visit us online. We’re excited to meet you!

470.239.2480 | PhaseFamilyCenter.com