POINTS NORTH ATLANTA | ISSUE 148 | SEPTEMBER 2012
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24 43 { DEPARTMENTS } 6 MY TURN 8 DUE NORTH 48 TRAVEL: CASHIERS & HIGHLANDS, N.C. 84 CALENDAR 90 5 THINGS
{ ON THE COVER } One of four pairs of Jimmy Choos in local fashionista Sandy Hofmann’s sensational shoe collection. Photo by Jessica Layne | The Photography Collection
S P E C I A L A DV E R TI S I N G S E C TI O N S 32 | Fall Shopping Directory 54 | Favorite Fall Festivals & Destinations 81 | Colleges & Universities 4
Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
16 THE SHOE DIVA
34 FOOD FASHION
In response to our quest for a shoe fanatic in the Northside, reader Sandy Hofmann sent a flyer depicting rows of shoes perfectly aligned inside glass cabinets. Intrigued, we took a peek into her closet and spoke to the local fashionista about her fun philosophy on footwear.
Presentation on the plate is all about color, proportion, simplicity and swank. This month, we spoke to a few Northside restaurants that put their style where your plate is. Plus, take note of a few tips for making presentation a priority in your own kitchen.
18 FALL FASHION TRENDS 41 DAY TRIPPIN’ Give summer the boot with splashes of rich color and textures! Autumn is all about layers, tweed, houndstooth, leopard print and anything that sparkles.
22 FALL BEAUTY Finish your look with make-up combinations from Atlanta-based Authentic Beauty that pair perfectly with the season’s hottest trends.
24 LOCAL BOUTIQUES Boost the local economy and your personal wardrobe by shopping at locally owned boutiques, where superior customer service and a sense of community are always in style.
Historic Downtown Decatur’s shops, restaurants, festivals and artsy small-town charm warrant a drive from the suburbs. Read on for plenty of reasons why, plus a tour through Virginia Highland and Inman Park.
73 A WILL TO BE WELL Local wish-fulfillment organizations like Make-AWish Georgia and Cumming’s Kingdom Kids shine some light into the lives of childhood cancer patients like 4-year-old Will Abernathy. Find his story and how you can contribute to these organizations here.
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: PHOTOS COURTESY OF TONI PARSONS; MICHAEL MORDLER | MICHAELMORDLER.COM; DEVON MORGAN | PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO
contents
MY
turn PRESIDENT / CEO
Witt Beckman PUBLISHER
Carl Danbury Jr. EDITOR
Bre Humphries SENIOR EDITOR
Heather KW Brown CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR PHOTO COURTESY OF ROB SMITH
Robin Harrison
oh,
A S S I S TA N T C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R
Shannah J. Smith EDITORIAL INTERNS
Taylor Knowles Ryan Phillips Kathrina St. Flavin Chelsea Stratso
BABY
Typically, an issue
showered us with prayers, love, support and plenty of pint-sized gifts for our little guy. I’ve heard it takes a village to raise a child, and if that’s true, we’re in good shape! I’ll be taking some time off as I transition into this new period of my life, but will be back in time to usher in the New Year with our Guide for the Northside Bride in January. Though there will be plenty of entertaining and informative reads in the pages of Points North between now and then, it is never too early to start submitting your wedding photos for our second annual cover contest. Send your favorite vertical shots to pointsnorthphotocontest@gmail.com, or visit ptsnorth.com for submission details. In the meantime, enjoy the rest of 2012. It’s a year I, for one, will never forget!
Bre Humphries, Editor
Elizabeth Fletcher John Manasso Susan Sexton Elisabeth Warrick Jenni Williams Melanie Woodroffe ADVERTISING
770-844-0969 sales@ptsnorth.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Marita Kahler S E N I O R M E D I A C O N S U LTA N T
Karen Poulsen ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Tom Tolbert CIRCUL ATION MANAGE R
Tiffany Willard
All Points Interactive Media Corp. 568 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30041 770-844-0969 www.ptsnorth.com © 2012 Points North All Points Interactive Media Corp. All rights reserved. Points North is published monthly by All Points Interactive Media Corp. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the editor, the publisher or of Points North. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Subscription information: Points North offers a 12-month subscription for $12. Visit www.ptsnorth.com for details.
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Pl e as
c yc l e T h i s M a zi n e
To send comments and/or suggestions on this or any other subject, e-mail us at: myturn@ptsnorth.com.
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devoted to fall fashion would send me in search of all the latest trends and accessories for my own personal wardrobe. Not so this year. This year, I’ve got someone else’s wardrobe in mind. In fact, my husband jokes that our son has more clothing than we do and he’s not even born yet, though he probably will be by the time you read these words. Due on Aug. 31, our first child has already stolen our hearts, along with plenty of space in our home. His nursery in particular has been a labor of love; inspired by “A River Runs Through It,” it’s my fisherman husband’s dream-cometrue, complete with a river landscape mural and a rug that resembles the rocky river bottom, plus a TV so Dad can watch “Duck Dynasty” during 2 a.m. feedings. (Hey, whatever it takes to encourage his help!) These past few months of preparation have been such an exciting period, and one that has reminded us just how blessed we already are as family and friends have
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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north { ENTER TO win } A MING WANG OUTFIT! FOUNDED IN 1986, Ming Wang has been known for its versatile collections designed for the busy woman who is in search of style and functionality. With an already loyal following for its ability to translate seasonal color trends into timeless statement pieces and refined basics for women of all body types (from petite xs to women’s 3x), the brand further endears itself by making pieces that you’ll absolutely love. First, because they are crafted with a specialized yarn so that the entire collection is wrinklefree, machine washable, fade-resistant and travel friendly; and then, because each piece fits comfortably and is designed to integrate seamlessly with a woman’s existing wardrobe. To check out these easy, effortless styles yourself, head to the nearest Von Maur store (North Point Mall and coming soon to Perimeter Mall). For more information, visit mingwangknits.com. One lucky Points North winner will receive the Ming Wang garnet modern stripe tunic and the new narrow leg pants in black. The perfect example of day-to night style, Ming Wang’s versatile tunic from the Fall 2012 collection pairs seamlessly with jeans for day or Ming Wang’s slim leg classic black pants for a sophisticated evening look. This prize, valued at $442, is good until supplies last. So, once you win, don’t delay! To register to win, visit ptsnorth.com.
the PRIZE PHOTO COURTESY OF MING WANG
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september 2012
JOIN US for a IT MIGHT NOT BE TEAM USA VS. TEAM EUROPE, but you’re going to love the format for this exclusive team golf event just a few days prior to the Ryder Cup matches. This month, Points North has partnered with Currahee Club for a very unique golf event at their beautiful layout overlooking Lake Hartwell. Limited to 64 amateur players, eight teams of eight golfers will face off in a modified Ryder Cup format on Wednesday, Sept. 26 beginning at 8:30 a.m. The one-day tournament will give participants a taste of the intriguing Ryder Cup during morning play with each golfer playing six holes of Fourball, six holes of Foursomes and six holes of Singles. All are match play competitions. The top four teams will advance to an 8-person better-ball team shootout in afternoon play for the Currahee Cup title. Golfers may assemble their own eight-person teams
(corporate, community, alumni group, etc.) for this event, or choose to be paired with other registered participants. An inclusive entry fee of $99 per player covers greens fees, cart fees and range balls, a light breakfast and coffee service, a sandwich buffet between rounds, hors d’oeuvres and awards reception following the matches, and low-cost beer, wine and mixed drinks for those 21 and older. Registration begins at 7 a.m. A course overview and scorecard tour of Currahee Club is available at curraheeclub.com/golf-communities.htm. For more information, visit http://tinyurl.com/cqtjp4e, or e-mail the tournament director at curraheecup@gmail.com. Registration deadline is Sept. 19. A second opportunity to compete in this format may be added for Thursday, Sept. 27 once the field of 64 players is fulfilled for Sept. 26. ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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PHOTO COURTESY OF CURRAHEE CLUB
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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ROBB FAMILY
PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE LANIER ISLANDS RESORT
FALL WINE CRUISES LAKE LANIER ISLANDS RESORT will expand its Fall Wine Cruise Series this fall beginning with its inaugural voyage slated for Sunday, Sept. 23. During the eight-week series, guests will enjoy wine tastings and hors d’oeuvres during a two-hour voyage on Lake Lanier aboard the luxurious 85-foot Island Princess. Visiting winemakers and winery representatives will accompany guests on the cruises to discuss the wines and answer questions about them. Advanced reservations are required. Please call 770-945-8787, ext. 6148 for information, pricing and reservations. Special overnight room rates also are available.
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TURNING LOSS INTO HOPE
SAM ROBB, A COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROSPECT WHO WAS DIAGNOSED with osteosarcoma at the age of 15, was determined to live life to the fullest, and his actions matched this sentiment. Post-treatment, Sam continued to pursue his passion for athletics and joined a World Series-winning East Cobb baseball team despite his prosthetic knee. Less than five years after he was diagnosed, the cancer returned and Sam passed away in June of 2007. Roused by his memory and determined spirit, the Robb family of Roswell turned their loss into hope for others by establishing The Sam Robb Fund. In five years, The Sam Robb Fund has raised more than $270,000 to aid pediatric oncologist students at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the Emory University School of Medicine. The Sam Robb Fund recently expanded its partnership with CURE Childhood Cancer, an Atlanta-based organization created in 1975 by Emory’s first pediatric oncologist, by also endowing the Open Arms program. Open Arms is a support program that provides meals to hospitalized childhood cancer patients and their families. Sam’s own personal mantra, “Fightin’ Till the Last Breath” underestimated the courageous determination that the young man possessed as he continues to fight for others beyond his last breath through the works that his legacy has inspired. To donate, visit CUREchildhoodcancer.org and select The Sam Robb Fund from the “Named Funds Tab.” Checks can be made out to CURE Childhood Cancer, with “Sam Robb Fund” written on the notes line. Mail checks to: CURE Childhood Cancer, 1117 Perimeter Center West, Suite N-402, Atlanta, GA 30338. — Kathrina St. Flavin
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THE EFFECTS OF CANCER
For many cancer survivors, the aesthetic side effects of treatment such as surgery or chemotherapy may serve as a constant reminder of a treacherous journey. To help them regain their confidence and physical sense of self, Nouveau Clinic in Alpharetta offers restoration services that counteract these effects. Options include cosmetic restoration for women who have undergone mastectomies, scar camouflage after reconstructive surgery, and 3-D eyebrow and lash line simulation to restore brows and eyelashes that were lost, or that did not regenerate after cancer treatment. “The No. 1 reaction I get is that I’ve changed their lives,” said paramedical artist Evie Jules Delaney, who entered this field to assist clients like her own mother, a two-time burn survivor. “It makes people feel whole again.” For more information, visit nouveaufaceandbody.com.
SAVVY SHOPPERS Savvy shoppers rejoice! Atlanta Consignment Stores (ACS) is making it easier to shop like a fashionista without emptying your wallet. Local consignment store owners Melissa Baxter and Bonnie Kallenberg teamed up to create a one-stop resource where you can browse nearly 50 of the best and most wellknown consignment stores in the Atlanta area, all from the comfort of your couch. Log on to atlantaconsign mentstores.com to choose from categories such as ladies, kids, furniture, bridal and more until you find the perfect store to fit the needs of your next shopping adventure. Prefer to peruse the goods in person? Don’t shop ‘til you drop, relax between stores on an ACS bus tour, a chartered bus that will chauffeur you to a group of stores, where you will get a 20 percent discount! Take a ride on Sept. 15 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to see what Atlanta’s best consignment stores have to offer. Tickets start at $45. — Chelsea Stratso
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THE POWER OF PINK
NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL invites community members to join the fight against breast cancer with The Power of Pink Luncheon. This awareness-raising fundraiser will feature a fashion show, silent auction and the opportunity to network with members of the community. The luncheon will take place on Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Power of Pink Luncheon is a leading fundraising tool for Check Up For Chicks, North Fulton Hospital’s Breast Care Program. Check Up for Chicks is a health awareness program that aims to improve breast health for women in the community. This program promotes women to fearlessly take steps toward total breast health through education and health measures, such as routine mammograms. North Fulton Hospital’s Breast Care Program is held together by a dedicated team of specialists from various fields of medicine. For more information, call 770-751-2868 or visit checkupforchicks.com. — Kathrina St. Flavin
AMC COMING TO NORTH POINT MALL ONE OF METRO ATLANTA’S favorite shopping destinations just got even better. General Growth Properties (GGP), the investment trust that owns North Point Mall, recently unveiled plans to build an AMC movie theater on the mall property. Early plans for AMC North Point 12 include luxury seating, a Marketplace concession area, 100-percent digital projection and premium sound. AMC attributes North Point Mall’s distinct symphony of premier shopping and dining to their decision to build a new theater. A MacGuffins Bar, IMAX and ETX auditoriums are some of the possibilities that are being discussed for the new theater. Be on the lookout for the grand opening of the soonto-be preferred movie-going experience. Construction for AMC North Point 12 is slated to begin in late 2012. — Kathrina St. Flavin
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BOXES OF LOVE Everyone has dealt with various financial struggles, and for some families, the toughest battle is keeping food on the table. Sawnee Woman’s Club of Forsyth County is working to meet this need with Boxes of Love, a program aimed at helping families in the community overcome these unfortunate obstacles. Boxes of Love has partnered with other groups in the community to work with local schools to identify families that are in need of food and then deliver the groceries to schools in the county. Whether the items are discreetly placed into the backpacks of children at school or delivered to the family at their homes, the groceries make it easier for families to make it through another week. This fall, Boxes of Love and other volunteer groups such as churches and PTA groups in the community hope to serve at least 60 families each month. Boxes of Love is fully funded by donations and sponsors that provide money, buy staple goods for the program or buy for a certain school. To find out more about the program and how to donate, visit sawneewomansclub.org. — Chelsea Stratso
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NOSH AT NOCHE CLOSER TO HOME Known for tasty tapas, tacos and stellar drink specials, Noche will be opening a new location in Alpharetta that promises to spice up the local flavor. Providing customers with casual indoor and patio atmospheres, this Atlanta favorite is sure to become an instant hot spot in the already renowned Alpharetta dining scene. Perfect for small plate dining and drinks with friends, Noche has an established reputation as a venue for locals to meet, eat and enjoy the nightlife that the restaurant name suggests. With three other successful locations around the Atlanta area, the new location is slated to open on Oct. 1 and will offer the same unique menu, including the fan favorite weekly taco along with Noche Nachos, empanadas and more. For more information, visit h2sr.com. — Chelsea Stratso
Beautiful, Healthy Legs are Your BEST Fall Fashion Accessory
MD
DR. LOU I S P R E VO S T I Cardiovascular Surgeon
2 0 Ye a r s o f E x p e r i e n c e i n C a r d i o v a s c u l a r S u r g e r y a n d P h l e b o l o g y 1100
Johnson Ferry Rd. NE | Suite 165 | Atlanta, Georgia 30342 | 404.446.2800
www.VEINatlanta.com 72
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Dishin’ with the
SHOE DIVA
When asked for shopping tips, Hofmann said, “I only buy locally and I don’t buy online.” Her top places to shop? Jeffrey, Saks, Bloomingdales, Stuart Weitzman at Lenox & Perimeter, Nordstrom and Phipps
WE ASKED READERS TO SHOW US THEIR SHOES, AND FASHIONISTA SANDY HOFMANN DELIVERED { WRITTE N BY HE ATHE R K W B R OWN }
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JESSICA LAYNE | THE PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION
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Cinderella certainly proved that “one shoe can change your life,” but it is Sandy Hofmann, recently selected as our very own Northside shoe-aholic, who gets the spotlight this month for a slightly different philosophy on shoes. “There are 365 days in a year ... why wouldn’t you have a pair for every day?” Hofmann’s total count isn’t quite that high yet, but at an estimated 180 pairs, she could wear a different pair each day for the first half of the year and then repeat. In response to our quest for a shoe fanatic in the Northside, Hofmann sent a flyer depicting rows of shoes perfectly aligned inside glass cabinets. She later explained that her “investment” shoes have their own cabinet so that she can enjoy them every day, whether she is wearing them or not. Much like shopping for shoes, we simply couldn’t resist hearing more about Hofmann and her love of shoes, which she enthusiastically shared with us along with a sneak peek of her closet. “I’ve always been nuts for shoes, but the real shocker came when I was selling my townhouse in Boston and I overheard
“How many pairs of black shoes do you really need? The answer is a lot!” — SANDY HOFMANN
the people say, ‘Have you ever seen that many shoes in someone’s house before?’” “I was thinking, ‘no, that’s not possible,’ and after they left, I went up and counted them myself ... I had no idea!” “Let’s see ... 61 Stuart Weitzman, 15 Feregamo, eight Loubotin, four Jimmy Choo, two Chanel, 14 pairs of boots and 80 pairs of miscellaneous shoes,” Hofmann said. Turns out, her closet — organized by brand, by color and even by type within the brand — is also home to several pieces of shoe jewelry, tabletop displays she uses for shoe parties and many books on shoes. “I am 5-foot-1 now, so because I was smaller than everybody else, and oftentimes had to buy the samples, I think that spoiled me,” said Hofmann, who unabashedly admitted her hero is Dorothy whose ruby red slippers in the “Wizard of Oz” fueled her love of shoes. But before there was Dorothy, there was her mother. “My mom always wore stilettos, but I deviated from that genetic disposition,” said Hofmann, adding she is quite happy with her penchant for kitten heels, especially the ones with firework-red pom-poms
at the end that she bought in Hawaii. “I always remember that trip when I see them. I also have dress shoes that remind me of [specific] events and the people at those events,” she said. “It’s a whole lot better than a scrapbook.” One memory in particular sticks out in Hofmann’s mind, dating back to late April last year when she badly broke her leg. “The week before, I bought a pair of killer Jimmy Choos that were fab. They had to sit in my closet for a year. So the anticipation of finally being able to wear those shoes reminded me what I had overcome and how [during that year] I was forced to wear shoes that were so utilitarian and depressing.” I listened as Hofmann told of the first — and only time — she’s thrown away a pair of shoes (thongs that literally deteriorated as she walked), how she has the same pair of flat Stuart Weitzman shoes in three different colors (black, gold and candy apple red), and how she bought a pair of boots out of necessity only once, during a trip to Denver. Otherwise, when deciding on shoes, Hofmann didn’t skip a beat when relaying
her list of requirements. “Need has nothing to do with it, that doesn’t even factor into the equation,” she said. “I’d say about 80 percent of the time, I look for comfort; the rest of the time, I buy shoes simply because I love them.” Her favorite pair of shoes? “I have a pair I bought in 1979 that I love. They are special. They are sort of like Mary Janes, burgundy suede, not particularly astounding shoes and certainly not expensive ... actually I saved the receipt — they were $39, but I feel like a child again when I put them on. I feel comforted and they transport me back to that era.” Originally from Alabama, Hofmann moved with her family to Atlanta in the ‘70s and, despite residing in other U.S. cities, has considered Atlanta home ever since. Perhaps the most important question I asked Hofmann during our conversation was in hopes of validating my own burgeoning shoe fetish, and she signed off just as I had hoped. “How many pairs of black shoes do you really need? The answer is a lot!” PN
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Give summer the boot with splashes of rich color and textures! Autumn ease is all about layers, so feel free to keep wearing your favorite warm weather t-shirt. Add leather jeans
IN
FALLSTYLE or leggings, a gorgeous sweater and accessories with great details like tweed, houndstooth, leopard print, metal studs and medallions. Find a few adored vintage pieces, and create a style that is all your own. Here are a few key pieces to help you along!
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALBERTO MAKALI NY
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PI LED BY M ELA N I E WO ODR OFFE { C O MWWW.CAPITOLDEBEAUTE.COM }
Alberto Makali Available at Karen’s Fine Apparel, Johns Creek
Vince Camuto Madleyn Pump, $206 Available at Happy Feet Boutique, Brookhaven
LOCAL COUTURE AN ACCOMPLISHED DESIGNER with prestigious awards, Nina Gleyzer is no stranger to high fashion. She has spent more than 20 years traveling the world to create her namesake, Nina’s Couture, a most exquisite clothing and accessories line located right here in Atlanta! “I visualize the same way I breathe, every second of my life,” she said.
C. Wonder Colorful Bangles, $38 ea. Lenox Mall
This month, Gleyzer shares her picks for fall with Points North. t %FUBJMFE QJFDFT UIBU TUBOE PVU like Nina’s nubby tweed shift dress with patent leather insert. t 0XO BU MFBTU POF HPXO UIJT season! Gowns are not just for a gala. t (P GPS HPSHFPVT DPMPST MJLF bright pink, red and yellow. They all look great with grays and other deep autumn colors. t 8FBS XIBU NBZ CF EFFNFE “quirky;” a cashmere menswear jacket with a floral dress and tights make your style belong to you, and not a clone. Couture is about being an original!
C. Wonder Tweed Handbag, $198 Available at Lenox Mall, Buckhead
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DONNE ASHLOCKE; VINCE CAMUTO; C. WONDER
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{ FA L L FA S H I O N T R E N DS }
Atlanta-based Smart Glass Hex Necklace, $142 Available at smartglassjewelry.com
C. Wonder Tortoise Bracelets, $38 – $48 Available at Lenox Mall, Buckhead
SPARKLING STATEMENTS
Atlanta-based, S. Dot Jewelry’s Crystal & Silver drop earrings, $40 Available at Findlay Rowe Designs, Roswell
Atlanta-based HJ Designs “Goed” Pendant Necklace, made with recycled plexiglass and CZ, $85 Available at The Beehive, Atlanta, and online at hjdesigns.com Sugar Lips Top, $89 Available at Belk, Lakeland Plaza, Cumming 20
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SMART GLASS JEWELRY; HAZEL STUDSTILL; C. WONDER; BELK; S. DOT JEWELRY
full house
ATLANTA-BASED AUTHENTIC BEAUTY FEATURES MAKE-UP COMBINATIONS FOR FALL THAT OFFER A MODERN TAKE ON CLASSIC PLAYING CARDS, ALLOWING YOU TO SHUFFLE YOUR LOOK WITH EACH DRAW FROM THE DECK.
All products available at Authentic Beauty, located at 4674 Roswell Road, Atlanta, authenticbeautyllc.com
TH E JAC Q O F D I A M O N D S T H E AC E O F S PA D E S
THE QUEEN OF HEARTS This romantic look takes inspiration from the runways of Gucci, Zac Posen and countless other designers who chose classic red lips for their Fall 2012 shows. The eye is softly highlighted by a shimmering white shadow, Crystal Shimmer ($15), and lined delicately in black, leaving all eyes on the rich red lip. To create the lip, lip pencil in Ravishing Red ($13) is applied first, then topped with Bordeaux lipstick ($15.50) and finished with a touch of Beauty for Real gloss in Midnight ($22).
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This look is inspired by the brown smoky eyes that flooded the runways this fall. Designers like Burberry, Loewe and Elie Saab all showed differing versions of this smoldering eye. The look is achieved by first rimming the eye with brown pencil and then blending it all over the eyelid, and topping with eye shadow in Bark ($15). Taupe shadow is applied along the crease and lower lashlines to create a hazy effect. Cheeks are softly warmed with a touch of blush in Impulsive ($15), and lips are given a healthy dose of Beauty for Real lip gloss in Go Nude ($22). This gloss also contains peppermint oil, and dehydrated marine collagen to plump your pucker.
This look takes its inspiration from the Jason Wu runway. A shimmering slate cat-shaped eye is sure to grab some attention. To recreate this look, begin by blending Smoky Green pencil all over the lid, blending up and outward to create a “cat-like” shape. Then press Slate shadow ($15) all over the lid and up to the crease. Blend Sandalwood along the crease of the eye to warm up the look slightly. Contour the cheekbones with a matte fleshtoned powder to give a chiseled appearance. Next, line lips with a Sand pencil ($13) and fill in with Nudity lipstick ($15.50), a perfect matte nude.
THE JOKER This look is inspired by the many colorful eye looks seen on the Fall 2012 runways, Anna Sui and Tracy Reece among them. To achieve this playful look, mix Empress Teal shadow with eyeliner sealer to create a liquid liner. Run it along the upper lashline and bring the line upward and outward to create a bit of a wing. Apricot blush ($15) and Champs Elysee gloss ($16.50) balance the eye with warm peachy tones.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MICHAEL MORDLER | MICHAELMORDLER.COM; CLOTHING BY RENE SANNING OF RENE RENE IN ATLANTA
MOTION BOOST THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND YOUR OWN SENSE OF STYLE BY SHOPPING AT LOCALLY OWNED BOUTIQUES { WRITTEN BY ME L AN I E WO O D R O F F E }
WANT TO MEET NEW PEOPLE? Walk into a locally owned business. You will not only meet a new friend or two, you will also find something unique about the experience. It’s called attention. Most locally owned businesses have superior customer service due to engaging conversations of both the shopper and shop, and a sense of community is created. Read on for some insight into the owners of a few of our favorites.
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Rebecca, the POSH girl PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN O’CONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY
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{ LO C A L B O U T I Q U E S }
POSH BOUTIQUE MARIETTA Karyn Ballard, owner of POSH Boutique in Marietta,
The POSH girls; back from left to right: Aimee, Karyn and Rebecca; front: Madison PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN O’CONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY
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knows how to turn a bad situation into a brighter one. As a mother of two young daughters, she has survived breast cancer and losing both parents within two years of each other. When the economy took a dive, she bounced back and took a chance with the money her parents left her. In 2008, POSH Boutique was born. POSH is the acronym for “Port Out, Starboard Home,” which were considered the most luxurious of accommodations when traveling by ship long ago. Affluent passengers’ luggage and tickets were stamped P.O.S.H. Think trunks of beautiful gowns, exquisite jewels and shoes — very “posh” indeed! “Our POSH is for girls of all ages who never outgrow playing dress-up,” Ballard said. Designs at POSH are purchased in limited quantities, “so you won’t see everything everywhere!” Once a particular item is sold out, it is replaced by a different style, and new items arrive weekly. Creating an inviting environment is key to the success of POSH, where the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about both design and fashion trends. In fact, Ballard’s daughter Aimee works in the store and little 7-year-old Madison is the store’s mascot. Madison and Aimee are both smart stylists, and can assist in creating the perfect outfit for you. POSH is overflowing with the latest trends, from everyday stylish pieces to gorgeous formal attire, accessories and shoes. You can find the perfect, complete head-to-toe outfit, then leave the store wearing it. POSH and family are also very community-minded, so when you shop here, you are also aiding others, as they believe in paying it forward and giving back. Heavily involved in fundraising events benefiting children’s cancer, animal rescue, domestic abuse awareness and foster children, the POSH family donates time, resources and money to help others in the community. 3600 Dallas Hwy, Suite 270, Marietta 770-419-7412 www.facebook.com/POSHBoutiqueMarietta
{ LO C A L B O U T I Q U E S }
Lavender Boutique
CUMMING In 2004, Peony Lin had a very fashionable dream. Now, 8 years later, that dream, which was of owning an “insanely chic boutique” called Lavender, is now a stylish reality located in Cumming. Most would have given up on such a dream; after all, who opens a store with no retail experience? But Lin is not like most people. She is driven with determination, and with her husband’s help, she pursued and created a thriving business that she has cultivated into a beautiful success. Lavender Boutique is just as refreshing as its name, with pretty lavender painted walls, lots of light, dark hardwood floors, and thousands of beautiful things to buy. Lin has incredible taste, and has chosen a great selection of trendy and fashionable styles for women of all ages, making this a perfect shopping environment for mothers and daughters alike. To ensure exclusivity at Lavender Boutique, each piece is
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TONI PARSONS
LAVENDER BOUTIQUE
handpicked in limited quantities, and represents trends that are classics as well, offering stylish key pieces that add longevity to any wardrobe. You will also fi nd local clothing and Peony Lin jewelry designer favorites as well. “I enjoy fi nding new and great products that I think our customers will love,” Lin said. Shopping local brings a sense of community and that is important to her. Lavender Boutique is also involved in small fundraising activities throughout the year. Community efforts are always in mind, with the most recent being a fundraiser for My House Organization (myhouseforkids.org), a local charity that provides transitional homes or a home-like environment for babies that are homeless, and have no one to take care of them. Avenue Forsyth 410 Peachtree Pkwy. Suite 138, Cumming 678-513-9990 lavenderboutique.com
ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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FRIENDS with VINTAGE ONLINE ONLY French teacher and vintage-style darling Ty Lougher has a great appreciation for well-made clothing and accessories from the past. Her love for thrift store shopping was shaped into a passionate small business when Friends with Vintage was born in 2011. “This creative outlet provides the fashion-forward woman with beautiful and rare vintage pieces that are great additions to creating the perfect wardrobe,” said close friend and Friends with Vintage model, Kelli Flournoy of Kelli Flournoy PR. Lougher’s impeccable taste brings a combined splash of Paris to Atlanta at Friends with Vintage. Her personal style encompasses everything she loves about being a French teacher with a Southern flair. Thrift and vintage store shopping have become extremely popular over the past few years. Whether due to the fledging economy or perhaps even due to the smart phone, which enables
PHOTO COURTESY OF KELLI FLOURNOY PR
{ LO C A L B O U T I Q U E S } shoppers to research and compare prices more than ever before, more and more people are shopping secondhand. Vintage and used designer fashion online Ty Lougher searches are at an all-time high. Sustainable style is trending up. “Some people think they can’t wear vintage. Friends with Vintage shows them they can,” Lougher said. “We offer style options for our vintage finds and show how you can incorporate them into your modern wardrobe. It’s your very own style remix.” Plus, thrift and vintage price points are great — ranging from $10 to $55 — and, in most cases, the quality and rarity of a designer vintage piece long outweighs the highly mass-produced, pricey new designer piece. Friends with Vintage has a wide range of looks from many style eras, particularly the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. friendswithvintage.com PN
JANU ARY 2012 • ISS U E 140
WWW.P
TSNORT
H.COM
| JANUAR
Y 2012
THE NORT HSID E BR
THE NORTHSIDE
IDE: OUR FIRS
bride
T CO VE R-TO -COV
THE N
ORTHS
ER W ED
bride
DING
IDE
ISSU E
OUR FI RST CO WEDD VER-TO-C O ING IS A MOD SUE! VER ERN GU ID
JANUARY 2013 PHOTO CONTEST
E TO W DRESSEEDDING ETIQ S& UE PHOTO ACCE SS OR TTE, IE S, CONT EST AND M FINALISTS ORE!
POIN TS N ORT N 0112
Cover
2.indd
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2012 Cover Photo Winner: Tessa Marie Photography
CONTEST REQUIREMENTS: * Please note we can only consider photos that meet these requirements. – Photos must depict weddings that took place in metro Atlanta in the past 5 years. – Photos must be vertical. – Photos must be submitted as JPEG files – Photos should be at least 8 x 10 inches (2400 x 3000 pixels) at a minimum of 300 dpi – Photos must be accompanied by photo credits and captions. Consent to publish must be granted by the photographer and any parties depicted in the photo.
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presents
Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
DEADLINE: NOV. 9, 2012 POINTS NORTH MAGAZINE is currently seeking wedding photographers, reception venues, bridal shops, wedding industry professionals and even recent brides to submit photos for a special contest to correspond with our Annual Guide for the Northside Bride. Readers will have the chance to weigh in on their favorite photos through Facebook … and one photo will grace the cover of our January 2013 wedding issue! If you would like the opportunity to see a wedding you’ve been involved in (or even your own!) on the cover of the premier lifestyle magazine of Atlanta’s Northside, please send your photos to pointsnorthphotocontest@gmail.com by Nov. 9, 2012.
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MORE LOCAL BOUTIQUES ON OUR STYLE RADAR:
THE TWISTED THREAD The couture of consignment! Features Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and the list goes on and on, with great prices on everything high design 12660 Crabapple Road, Milton thetwistedthread.com
REMIX X BOUTIQUE Laidback luxury with a community-driven mantra you will love, plus a wardrobe consultation service to die for 1145 Woodstock Road, Suite 605, Roswell remixxboutique.com
U P TOW N G I R L Looking for a rock star wardrobe? Give your look a boost with Boho pieces that every fashionista needs 6555 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Suite 302, Duluth shopuptowngirlboutique.com
V I N TAG E & VO G U E “Everyone & everything deserves a second chance,” according to Vintage & Vogue’s sacred motto 55 Park Square, Roswell vintageandvogueclothing.com
I Z Z Y M AT E R N I T Y Stylish mommies-to-be shop here, where 20 years in business equates to beautiful and fashionable pieces for the ever-changing body 7300 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta izzymaternityclothes.com
RHINOCEROS BOUTIQUE Parisian-inspired pieces with a West Coast breeze of easiness 1311 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 528, Marietta shopatrhino.com
A LE X I S B O U T I Q U E An enormous selection of consignment, barely worn or never worn pieces 5805 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek alexissuitcase.com
J O DY ’ S 5TH AV E N U E Great resale store of men’s and women’s namebrand fashions, tucked away in Sandy Springs City Walk Shopping Center 230 Hammond Drive, Suite 532, Sandy Springs jodys5thavenue.biz ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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Fall
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ANTWERP DIAMONDS
11705 Jones Bridge Road
DASS SALON/SPA North Point Mall & Perimeter Mall
861 Holcomb Bridge Road
(770) 393-8303
Suite 105, Roswell
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770-998-3180
For more than 30 years, DASS has been synonymous with the latest in hair trends and the most innovative salon services. Call to book your appointment and ask about our first visit special.
4antwerpdiamonds.com With more than 30 years in the diamond and rare coin industry, Antwerp is Atlanta’s source when you need to sell diamonds, Rolex, Cartier, Breitling, Tiffany, estate jewelry and gold and silver coins. They offer immediate cash payment as well as low rate loans on your valuables.
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The Avenue is an outdoor lifestyle center. The Avenue offers a dynamic mix of premier national retailers, select local merchants and specialty restaurants.
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eating PRETTY North Atlanta Restaurants Put Their Style Where Your Plate Is { WR ITTEN BY JEN NI WILLIAM S }
T
here’s a new rage this season — and no, it’s not exposed zippers, neon color blocking or who’s going to play Christian Grey when the story hits the big screen. Nope, the biggest new trend in fashion is on your plate. It goes beyond that perfect placement of parsley and making a justthe-right-sized crab cake fit on a tapas plate to being all about color, proportion and, of course, beat-your-taste-bud-brains-out flavor. Restaurants push for plates that produce a balance of simplicity, superiority and swank to create something that will hit every single one of your senses. I sat on the front row for a food fashion showdown with some of North Atlanta’s hippest chefs and restaurant owners who are setting the bar for foodie fashion in ways that would make fashion designer Alexander McQueen himself drool, literally. Taking a break from making the morsel magic happen, these ladies and gentlemen of the kitchen share their secrets for high-end eating and swoon-worthy suppers.
Bistro is the New Black Hear the word, “bistro,” and you can’t help but slip back into a simpler time, hopefully on the coast somewhere along the Riviera, sipping a glass of wine and indulging in a freshly prepared catch of the day. It’s no different at Roswell’s Bistro VG. In fact, Creative Consultant Mix McCrory claims that idea is exactly what the restaurant stands on. “Everything here is French inspired, so we’re simple, old school.” And sticking to that style through and through, the elegant simplicity starts in the kitchen. “Every one of our plates goes out neat and clean. We’re not meticulous, but our dishes are simple enough to look good without a lot of fuss.” In fact, they serve a pan-roasted Bronzini that just about takes the cake in flavor-banging trips to France. You can’t get it every night, but when it’s on the menu you can assume you’ll clean your plate. The lightly seasoned, seared fish is placed atop a sizeable helping of creamy Marscapone polenta and fresh marinated tomatoes. It’s simple, but with a balancing personality that makes every bite something unexpected and well beyond satisfying. In fact, I can’t just call it simple. It’s simply outstanding, actually. 70 W. Crossville Road, Roswell, 770-993-1156, sedgwickrestaurantgroup.com
Bistro VG’s roasted Bronzini PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBIN HARRISON
ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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{ FOOD }
PHOTO COURTESY OF JIM CLANCEY
Pastis’ lamb shank served in a dark au jus with bright green haricot verts and a golden yellow potato au gratin.
Pastis Makes Perfect I can never get enough of the Riviera, and luckily, just a few blocks away, in the everadorable downtown Historic Roswell lies Pastis. A chic, country-French feel makes it a sought-after date night destination, or that perfect spot for a special occasion get together. Owner Carla Dent admits that they “want anyone who comes here to feel like they’ve been dropped down right in the heart of Southern France.” And of course, their secret to doing so is in the presentation. “It’s extremely important that the chefs look at every plate,” she said. The team at Pastis practices three things that give them that star-quality with the plate reputation. “Presentation, quality and taste are the keys to success,” Dent emphasized. Notice what was number one? First and foremost, the secret is, “You never want a plate that’s all white, or all brown.” My favorite? Try the lamb shank, a signature dish since 1998. The rich, bold shank is dripping in dark au jus, served alongside bright green haricot verts and a golden yellow potato au gratin. “It catches your eye,” she said, “… then your sense of smell and then it satisfies your taste buds.” 928 Canton Street,Roswell, 770-640-3870, pastisroswell.com
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
KOZMO’s spicy spaghetti, made with crunchy red onions, pepper flakes, crispy bacon, a splash of olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
At KOZMO Gastro Pub in Johns Creek, owner Oswald Morgan swears by presentation. It’s obvious from the sleek décor, ritzy barware and strategic ambient lighting that these guys have style. In fact, when it comes to the food, Morgan was very clear. “Second only to the ingredients you use, how it looks on the plate is the most important thing you can consider in running a restaurant,” he said. Especially for this neighborhood gastro pub that specializes in what you could call seriously updated comfort food, making feel-good dishes look more appealing is a daily challenge. “People eat with their eyes so the key is to make everything approachable, simple and minimalist,” he said. Basically, less is more and we don’t mean portion size. Their most popular special is a heaping bowl of stylish spicy spaghetti. The chef tosses crunchy red onions, pepper flakes, crispy bacon and spaghetti together with a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese. Simple in appearance and looking far removed from its straight from the crock-pot cousin, every individual ingredient in this dish contributes to an explosive flavor quality leaving you unable to resist bite after bite. 11890 Douglas Road, Johns Creek, 678-526-6094, kozmogastropub.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SOCIAL ECLIPSE
Gastro Gets Good
ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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PHOTO COURTESY OF HAUTE COUTURE MEDIA
{ FOOD }
Three Sheet’s grilled cheese sandwich paired with tomato soup
Between the Sheets It’s not everyday someone sells you a night out on the town, at a ritzy, soft-lit dinner spot and then serves up a grilled cheese sandwich as the main course. It just doesn’t happen. But if you’re at Three Sheets in Sandy Springs, it’s the most popular thing on the menu. Managing Partner Ryan Akly explains how they got to the place where they serve America’s favorite kid food. “It’s all about making the food on the plate look good. If it’s not aesthetically pleasing, that totally changes a guest’s mind about the dish. We plate it up modern, pair it with tomato soup and, of course, make sure it is delicious,” he said. Not only that, but Three Sheets has a reputation for swank in every corner of their brand and the way they serve their portions is just part of the puzzle. “If the presentation is good, their eyes approve before they even taste it.” Rest assured whatever sense you’re using as your mental fork and knife, this menu cuts deep-down to delicious. 6017 Sandy Springs Circle, Atlanta. 404-303-8423. threesheetsatlanta.com
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
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Our restaurant owners and chefs know that serving style with dinner is something we all want to know how to do at home. Whether dinner with the kids, a snazzy party or any kind of special occasion, they share their rules of thumb for easy styling in your own four-star kitchen.
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Christy Haffner
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Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Haffner is a Board CertiďŹ ed Pediatric Dentist specially trained to treat the dental needs of children. Dr. Haffner is also on staff at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
“
No matter what you serve or what you serve that on, make sure to wipe your plates! A clean rim with no drips or smudges looks better than the alternative, always. Oswald Morgan, Owner KOZMO Gastro Pub
D.M.D.
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770-777-9400
www.drchristyhaffner.com Pediatric Center | 3300 Old Milton Pkwy | Suite 250 | Alpharetta, GA, 30005
“
Use your plate’s rim as a frame. Fill the inside like it was a picture. Mix McCrory Creative Consultant, Bistro VG
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“
Make your plate colorful. You want it to catch the guest’s eye ‌ and then make sure it’s really good. Carla Dent, Owner Pastis Restaurant & Bar
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Balance is key. Arrange your components proportionally on the plate, and in a way that makes sense to the diner how they’re supposed to eat it. Lorena Michael Executive Chef, Three Sheets
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ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
Day
trippin’
{ WRITTEN BY JOHN MAN AS S O }
erched over
her computer one summer night, my wife blurted out, “Erin Murphy just saw Owen Wilson at Cakes &Ale!” It hardly surprised me. This same friend had encountered Billy Bob Thornton within the previous 18 months in Oakhurst Village outside a favorite City of Decatur hangout, so to see that another movie star was at a restaurant that earned a spot on Bon Appetit’s list of the country’s 50 best new restaurants for a second straight year wasn’t exactly news. As Georgia’s state government has offered incentives to the film and television industries, directors and producers have descended upon our leafy, four-square-mile city of 18,000, with its renovated 100-yearold craftsman bungalows and charming historic courthouse square. In May 2011, the New York Times Travel section christened Decatur “the love child of Berkeley and Mayberry.” Berkeley, perhaps, for the decidedly artsy and urban-pioneering roots that
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{
in Decatur
THANKS TO A CHARMING HISTORIC SQUARE AND COMMUNITY-ORIENTED ATMOSPHERE, THERE ARE PLENTY OF REASONS TO VISIT THIS ARTSY YET SMALL-TOWN CITY
begat the city’s gentrification a few decades ago; Mayberry for its homey, small-town feel. Because of its walkability — the city was founded in 1823, 24 years before Atlanta, whose downtown sits only 5 miles west — many parents walk or ride bikes with their children to school. In fact, the schools, immune from drastic budget cuts that have ravaged nearby systems, have become a huge draw that has launched a baby boom with a resulting 9 percent increase in student enrollment in 2011 and a 12 percent one this year to a total of 3,630. According to the Atlanta JournalConstitution, Decatur eighth graders earned the top reading scores in the metro area on the standardized CRCT tests with 100 percent of students passing. Such a community-oriented atmosphere
}
Top: The streets of Downtown Decatur; Above: Enjoying the Decatur Book Festival
has created a cozy culture in which residents often choose not to depart the city limits to dine out or have a beer, which has helped bars and restaurants thrive. Art
TOP PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DECATUR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; MOM AND CHILD PHOTO COURTESY OF AJC DECATUR BOOK FESTIVAL
ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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{ DAY T R I P P I N ’ }
Clockwise from top left: Universal Joint in Oakhurst Village; sidewalk dining in Downtown Decatur, cocktails at The Iberian Pig; inside Cakes & Ale
galleries and boutiques populate the downtown storefronts, and festivals (arts, “beach party,” wine, beer, barbecue, book), most of which are held on the square, dot the calendar every month from May to October. Labor Day’s Book Festival might be the best known, but my personal favorite is October’s Craft Beer Festival, for which I have volunteered for five years running. It’s much easier than purchasing tickets, which cost $40 and only 4,000 of which go on sale for the five-hour event. In recent years, the event has sold out in a matter of hours, or less. If you aren’t lucky enough to swing a ticket, you can still take in the
vibrant scene from one of the restaurants or bars that line the square. Among the most famous is the Brick Store, which offers dozens upon dozens of craft and imported brews and specializes in Belgian beers. A personal favorite is Mac McGee’s, an Irish bar that offers scores of whiskeys, including “flights” of three at reduced prices. By this correspondent’s count, Decatur boasts 12 bars and plenty of other restaurants with liquor licenses. The Brick Store owns a gastro-pub spin-off around the corner called Leon’s, where diners can play bocce as they wait to eat frites Belgian-style with a choice of mayonnaises, including bacon and horseradish. Another well-worn spot is Oakhurst’s Universal Joint, where PGA golfer Stewart Cink stops to grab a burger after playing East Lake Golf Club, located a mere 1.1 miles south. Yes, Decaturites seem to love their beer and other culinary vices, which has given rise to the moniker “Homer Simpson
Corner” for a trio of businesses located on College Avenue between Feld and Cambridge avenues. Revolution Doughnuts, home to salted caramel creations sprinkled with bacon, craft beer store Ale Yeah! and Avellino’s Pizzeria occupy three of the small shops. One of my favorite trips on a Friday afternoon starts by sticking an empty growler in my backpack, walking the quarter mile to my daughter’s school, picking her up and stopping off on the way home at Ale Yeah! to fill up the growler with a nice brew. As for Avellino’s, my 92-year-old grandmother, the child of Italian immigrants who has lived her entire life in Lower Manhattan, gives it her seal of approval. Just beware of the ghost pepper topping. In addition to Avellino’s, Decatur has a number of other pizzerias, but the most noteworthy is Sapori di Napoli, which was founded by two brothers born in Naples, the epicenter of Italy’s pizza tradition. To make their artisanal pizzas, the paesans imported a 5,000-pound wood-burning oven from the city of their birth. You would need more than a daytrip to hit all of Decatur’s best restaurants, such as Parker’s on Ponce steakhouse, Spanish-inspired Iberian Pig (check out the cocktails), the schnitzel specialists at 7 Hens, and an excellent Italian spot, No. 246, not to mention all the great shops (pop in Little Shop of Stories for a treat to take home to the kids). Just be careful: If you visit, like me, you might not want to leave.
UNIVERSAL JOINT PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN MANASSO; THE SQUARE PUB PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DECATUR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; CAKES & ALE PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES CAMP PHOTOGRAPHY; IBERIAN PIG COCKTAIL PHOTO COURTESY OF MAI & BRI PHOTOGRAPHY;
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
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ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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{ DAY T R I P P I N ’ }
FOLLOW THE BUTTERFLY TO INMAN PARK { Written by Susan Sexton } nown as Atlanta’s first garden suburb circa 1890, the Inman Park community was once the playground of the rich and famous. Asa Candler, founder of the Coca-Cola Company, called Inman Park home during this successful period of Inman Park’s growth. The easily accessible area, located 2 miles east of downtown Atlanta, is a blend of old and new worlds, with shady, pristine streets where streetcars used to run. A stroll in Inman Park is one of life’s simple pleasures. To visit, follow the butterfly — the longstanding symbol of the community — which graces most windows as a distinctive mark of the close-knit neighborhood. A fusion of new condos and historic homes, Inman Park has just as much of a modern feel as it does a retro vibe. What’s more, after making a comeback in the ’70s, the once-counterculture neighborhood is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has become a thriving, upscale destination for many — whether for a daytrip or a lifetime.
K
The Market, entrance and restaurant dining room at Parish Foods & Goods
{ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEVON MORGAN, PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO }
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
Take to the Streets The Inman Park Festival held every April is often called Atlanta’s best street festival with The Feed and Seed Marching Abominables Band performing on festival Saturday. The winding streets filled with spring blooms offer a glance at the spectacular Victorian homes while you peruse the eclectic artists’ market. And you don’t want to miss the live dance and drama performances held in the Trolley Barn.
Fine Cuisine in Casual Settings In-town living is often about contrasts, and to see this, look no farther than the local selection of restaurants and eateries. Sotto Sotto features upscale Italian fare in a casual yet elegant atmosphere, while Fritti offers a hip, family-friendly patio with more casual fare. Be sure to try one of the 26 flavorful Fritti pizzas. Parish Foods & Goods is known for artsy Southern cooking and a green market not to be missed. Two Urban Licks is sure to impress an important date with its highenergy atmosphere and wood-fired meats and fish. Rathbun’s, on the other hand, is a snazzy, local favorite for American fine dining with renowned steaks. Experience a taste of Europe at Barcelona Wine Bar and Restaurant, where you’ll find an intriguing Sherry list and simply sumptuous tapas.
An In-town Oasis Nestled upstairs in the IPV building on Highland Avenue, Passion Nails transports you to a tropical paradise. The décor is soothing yet spacious, with quality service levels for manis and pedis. Upon arrival, expect to be offered a refreshing glass of wine while you settle into a vibrating massage chair. If you are a cigar aficionado, or need to park your significant other for a while, try the nearby Highland Cigar with a friendly, happening atmosphere and expansive selection of drinks and smokes. Enjoy the plush leather furniture and walk-in humidor as well. ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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{ F E ATTURRIEP PHI N EA DAY ’ D } ER }
with an authentic New Orleans ambiance and standup oyster bar. Savor one of the best Blood Mary’s in town and relax on the flower-filled back porch while taking in the local flavor. Wander into Highland Tap for a famous sidecar martini and pair it with a savory steak or burger for a hearty lunch or dinner. The bar is known for its friendly service and ”Cheers” like atmosphere, and is a perfect place to while away a leisurely afternoon. Perhaps the sweetest finish found in this neighborhood is Paolo’s. Featuring some of the best gelato this side of Italy, the tiny, eclectic shop is a fun place to be seen while enjoying your cone on the curbside benches. Known for specialty flavors, no trip to Virginia Highland would be complete without a stop at this local favorite!
Clockwise from right: Fontaine’s Oyster House; shops along the streets of Virginia Highland; Festivitiy boutique
The Oldest In-Town Village of Virginia Highland
Shop til You Drop If you’re still hungry, walk back in time at the Belly General Store for delicious to-go items, but my guess is the next tug will be at your purse strings. And if interesting boutiques and fashionable new lines are your go-to styles, the area boasts some of the most interesting retail shops in Atlanta. Mitzi & Romano, the catbird seat on the corner, offers trendy shoes, accessories and apparel for ladies, while Festivity is known for its reasonably priced, unique jewelry, gifts and accessories. Bill Hallman is the choice brand of apparel, accessories and shoes for local celebs and is known for introducing new lines and trends first.
{ Written by Susan Sexton } irginia Highland, a quaint, tree-lined neighborhood defined by the intersection of Virginia and Highland avenues, is one of the oldest in-town villages and is known for its craftsman bungalows and distinctive architectural details. Once farmlands and a country retreat, this destination makes a great daytrip from Atlanta’s Northside. Most of the bungalows in Virginia Highland were built in the 1920s before an exodus of residents to the suburbs in the 1950s. A return to in-town living resumed, beginning back in the 1970s. Today, the neighborhood is a bustling community of families, dogs, young adults and original residents who enjoy a city-like, walking neighborhood filled with on-trend retail shops, high-end spas and salons as well as cozy restaurants and entertaining nightlife. Pull up a chair at one of the sidewalk cafés, sit back and enjoy!
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Lively and Fun Entertainment For a Delicious Nosh Newcomer Goin’ Coastal offers fresh, sustainable seafood with fishing village décor. Try some of the weekly specials, and you’re sure to become a regular! If fish isn’t your dish, Fontaine’s will enchant your palate
One of the oldest watering holes in Atlanta is Atkins Park, a congenial, loud and lively bar with solid fare and strong cocktails. A popular local hangout, it has been a VA-Hi favorite for years. Blind Willie’s, a tiny hole in the wall that packs in talented artists, is Atlanta’s premier blues club. PN
{ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEVON MORGAN, PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO } 46
Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
High Hampton Inn
A SEASONAL TREAT
Head to Highlands & Cashiers, N.C., for an Unhurried and Charming Trip This Fall { W R IT T E N BY E L IZABE T H FL E TCHE R }
t 4,118 feet above sea level, Highlands,
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N.C., is the second highest town east of the Mississippi. Its downtown sits on a plateau above the valleys below. Highlands is a place that’s used to being on top. Year-round population is 3,200 but swells to 18,000 during season, and with weather that is considerably cooler than Atlanta, a little more than 120 miles away, many of the homes here still don’t have air condition. As a matter of fact, you can usually have a fire eight months out of the year and a cotton sweater comes in handy on cool mountain nights. Downtown Highlands brings back memories of days gone by, where the sidewalks are brick and you won’t find backlit signs or chain restaurants. Local businesses cater to a high-end clientele, so window shopping here is a treat, though most folks aren’t able to leave without a few shopping bags filled with the fabulous finds that initially caught their eye. McCulley’s is one of
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the best experiences I have had in a fine cashmere shop anywhere. The selection of styles and colors abound, and if you are looking for a gift, there is something for everyone. Acorn’s is also a must-see on any shopper’s list, featuring fine European and American antiques, gifts, jewelry, designer women’s apparel, handbags and scarves. Lodging is plentiful with the distinguished Old Edwards Inn and Spa in-town and the pastoral Inn at Half Mile Farm, both of which have been been the setting for many engagements, honeymoons or anniversaries. For dining, the town proudly boasts 29 restaurants with five of those being Wine Spectator Restaurants. To put that in perspective, Atlanta only has 35 Wine Spectator Restaurants. Miller Union’s loss of Chef Justin Burdett was gain for Ruka’s Table, where Burdett utilizes fresh ingredients from local sources as well as all natural and sustainable farmers. APPLES PHOTO BY ROBERT WICKER; INN AT FALL PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGH HAMPTON INN; OLD EDWARDS INN PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD EDWARDS INN AND SPA
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AVUERLE } H E A D E R } { { FTERAT
Madison’s restaurant at The Old Edwards Inn
PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD EDWARDS INN AND SPA
Cashiers Captures Hearts at First Hello Ten miles east sits Cashiers, Highlands’ younger, less glamorous and not-so-naughty sister. Cashiers is a beautiful place in which to wander and savor the beauty of the mountains. The Village Green in the center of town has trails and gardens. During the season, it also hosts concerts, festivals and even the reading of the Declaration of Independence on the Fourth of July. Groovin on the Green is similar to an outdoor concert experience at Chastain Park, except a hat is passed for donations rather than the requirement of purchasing a ticket. For overnight accommodations, don’t miss a night at High Hampton Inn. A 1,400-acre playground for the young and old, the Inn is on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts generation after generation of guests that return annually to renew, rejuvenate and reconnect amidst nature’s playground. Most of the stores are locally owned and one of my favorites is Rusticks, featuring high-quality home furnishings with a rustic yet sophisticated feel. The showroom boasts an ever-changing selection of upholstered, leather and reclaimed wood furniture, English and French antiques, European pine, porch furnishings
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and unique home accessories. A special find is Sorelle Design Studio where Tami Carlstedt whips out fine leather cuffs adorned with vintage jewelry. The town is blessed to have Canyon Kitchen at Lonesome Valley with Chef John Fleer at the helm. Another gem is Gamekeepers Tavern, which offers fine dining inside or patio dining with an outdoor fireplace. Cashiers’ Farmer’s Market is one of the most upscale markets I have ever been to and resembles more of a Dean & Deluca than your typical farmer’s market. The barbecue is smoked on premises and they don’t share or bottle their sauces — their way of keeping you coming back for more. Both of these towns offer enlightened good times in an unhurried, charming setting. It’s a little bit of heaven for me!
F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N
cashiers-nc.com highlandschamber.org
Fall Festivals in Highlands & Cashiers Fall is approaching and that means leaf shows, fall festivals and fairs. With the 5,000-foot elevation change, the lush Blue Ridge Mountain range puts on one of the longest-running leaf color displays in the country. After enjoying nature’s grand show, head to one of the festivals in the area.
Call Today To Learn More...
2012 Dazzling Dahlias Festival { Saturday, Sept. 15 } What do big pumpkins and dahlias have in common? More than you may think. On the horticultural side of things, both dahlia growers and giant pumpkin growers are known to use science and technology to reach their lofty goals, but in competition they differ greatly. Come to the 2012 Dazzling Dahlias Festival in Highlands, a dahlias-only competition and an amateur/hobbyist competition. If you like flowers and especially dahlias this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Leaf Festival of Cashiers Valley { Oct. 5 – 7 }
PHOTO BY ROBERT WICKER
Cashiers, Sapphire and Glenville, three villages in the heart of North Carolina’s mountain/lake region, gather together to produce the area’s most prominent fall festival. Featuring live music, children’s entertainment, hayrides and farm tours, the festival also boasts more than 100 local juried artisan crafts, vendors and local merchants that bring a little something for everyone. From pottery and jewelry to sculpture and two-dimensional art, the festival promises a tantalizing bouquet of contemporary and traditional mountain art and crafts. Plus, with 10 bands taking the stage over the course of the three days, you’ll have plenty of time to tap your toes to country, gospel, rock, bluegrass and blues or simply sit back and watch the cloggers and martial arts exhibitors. Best yet, the Leaf Festival is free. cashiersvalleyleaffest.com
High Hampton Inn’s Annual Apple Festival { Oct. 7 } As the weather cools and the light changes to autumn gold, take your family out to discover the beauty of a just-picked apple, the intoxicating aroma of harvest time or the memorable bite into a tart, juicy apple. ptsnorth.com | September 2012 | Points North
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{ TR AV E L }
Apples are American’s favorite fruit, and North Carolina ranks seventh in apple production in the United States with up to 4 million bushels of apples harvested in a given year. Apples need a certain climate and Western North Carolina has the perfect temperatures for growing crisp, juicy apples: warm days and cool nights, as well as cool foggy August mornings that bring the blush to the apples. Apple stands dot the countryside amidst the fall foliage in North Carolina’s mountain region. The High Hampton Inn in Cashiers has been around for 90 years and the familyowned property is still just as popular as ever. This year will be the second annual High Hampton Inn Apple Festival and the house party-style weekend will celebrate the apple with a variety of tasty products from area growers and producers. Also on the agenda this year is an apple pie contest. Be sure to pull your recipes quickly, as the contest is limited to 25 entries. For more information about the Apple Festival and to reserve your weekend at High Hampton, call 800-334-2551.
Halloween in Highlands { Oct. 31 } Highlands goes all out to make the evening fun for everyone, from the littlest pumpkin being pushed in a stroller to the creakiest vampire donning elegant eveningwear. Remember the Universal Monster movies of the 1930s when the townspeople would gather in the town square to go hunting for Frankenstein? Well, Halloween in Highlands is kind of like that, only without the pitchforks or torches. Streets are closed to foot traffic only and stores give out candy to the young and old. Even dogs get in the action, with canines dressed up and accompanying their masters on the trek. The evening ends at Old Edwards Inn with a Halloween contest. It is surely a night to remember. PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD EDWARDS INN AND SPA
Culinary Weekend in Highlands { Nov. 8 – 11 } Come celebrate the 6th Annual Highlands Culinary Weekend, a four-day destination event, created by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, which promises to be one of the highlights of the season. The weekend gains momentum with the not-to-be missed Opening Night Celebration, Thursday, Nov. 8, held at the esteemed Clubhouse of Highlands Country. Beginning at 7 p.m., enjoy great music, a variety of wine tasting tables, and the delectable cuisine of Highlands’ local chefs. Throughout the weekend, itineraries can be filled with an array of activities, cooking demonstrations, tastings and dinners hosted by area restaurants, merchants and accommodations. Plan to attend the annual Sip & Stroll, Saturday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the beautiful downtown area. It’s impressive to see the creativity that goes into Highlands Culinary Weekend. This event has evolved and continues to grow with each new season. It’s truly a wonderful experience to see a community come together for this celebration of Highlands. For more information, visit highlandsculinaryweekend.com. PN
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Georgia Plastic Surgery Consultants is now oering comprehensive, state-of-the-art plastic and reconstructive surgery services closer to home.
RECONSTRUCTIVE - We provide a wide variety of reconstructive procedures to help restore a patient’s former appearance, improving self-esteem and conďŹ dence. Examples include face, body and breast reconstruction after cancer surgery, breast reduction surgery, skin lesion removal, scar revisions and surgery to correct defects after traumatic injury or burns. COSMETIC - We oer a comprehensive approach to face, breast and body rejuvenation, seeking to achieve the look you desire. Cosmetic procedures oered include breast augmentation and lift, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), facial rejuvenation, including minimally invasive techniques and non-surgical therapies such as BotoxÂŽ and JuvedermÂŽ. HAND - We can address a variety of hand problems including traumatic hand injuries, carpal tunnel disease, as well as nerve and tendon injuries or repairs.
Christopher Killingsworth, MD
1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 420 Cumming GA 30041 678.208.6008 | www.gpscmd.com Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm
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Authorized dealer for Big Green Egg smokers, Napoleon Gourmet Grills and Sabre Gas Grills.
10% OFF Gas Logs!
15% OFF No Sales Tax on any in-stock gas grill $799 and up (Includes FREE cover)
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770.754.5750
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Alabama Gulf Coast
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hat have you been missing? Your perfect getaway is closer than you think. Within a few short hours, you could be lounging on Alabama’s 32 miles of white sand beaches, savoring fresh Gulf seafood at local restaurants or kicking back in luxurious accommodations. This is a place where you can find a spot on the beach that’s all yours and a fall event for every family member. Party Oct. 11 – 14 with the king of prawns at the 41st Annual National Shrimp Festival presented by Zatarain’s, or tap your toes to the beat at the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, taking place Nov. 8 – 18. Then race to the finish line at the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon,
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5K and 1-Mile Fun Run on Nov. 24. With cooler temperatures and holiday spirit in the air, prepare for Santa’s visit during Coastal Christmas in December. gulfshores.com
Alys Beach, Fla.
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hat could be more alluring than the astonishing atmosphere and decadent cuisine of Caliza Restaurant in Alys Beach, Fla? A meaningful cause! Next month, Caliza Restaurant & Pool goes PINK on Oct. 10 from 6 – 9 p.m. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Chef Kevin Korman will present a delectable fivecourse meal thoughtfully prepared with ultimate PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK XCHNG.COM | NANEKI
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cancer-fighting ingredients. Noted publisher and publicist Lisa Burwell, co-owner of VIE Magazine and a breast cancer survivor herself, will speak to the virtue of positive thinking and encouragement in fighting the disease. This event is limited to 60 attendees; cost is $200 per person, and all proceeds will be donated to Sacred Heart Cancer Center & Susan G. Koman Foundation, Maryland affiliate. Reserve your spot by calling 850-213-5700. alysbeach.com
neighborhoods Sept. 8 and 15. Interior designers from Gatewood Hall Gracious Home and Lakota Cove will be on hand to offer design tips and answer questions, along with builders and a mortgage broker. If you can’t make either of these dates, call to set up a private tour. While you’re there, visit The Village Festival, featuring 50 local vendors offering fresh foods and mountain crafts every Saturday through October. 770-893-2733, bigcanoe.com
Barnsley Gardens Resort, Adairsville, Ga.
Blairsville, Ga.
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ake advantage of two fall specials at this enchanting, historic resort. The “Tee for Two” deal includes a second weeknight at 50 percent off for every weeknight you stay at the resort’s standard rate, plus two for one rounds of golf on their awardwinning course. (All offers valid Monday – Thursday only, Sept. 1 – Nov. 30 (excluding Thanksgiving week). Offer not valid in conjunction with any other discounted rate offerings or packages. Offer based on availability. Not applicable to group bookings. Additional restrictions apply.) The “True Pair Sporting Clays Special” is perfect for those who enjoy shooting or want to give it a try, offering two or more rounds of sporting clays (100 clays per round) for only $35 per round — a savings of more than 40 percent — on weekdays this fall. (Applicable Monday – Thursday only. Gun rental and ammunition are additional. Rates subject to sales tax, gratuity is additional.) barnsleygardensresort.com
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estivities abound this fall in Blairsville! Mark your calendar for the Mountain Music & Arts & Crafts Festival on Sept. 8 at Vogel State Park, the Indian Summer Festival Oct. 6 – 7 at Woody-Gap School, and the Sorghum Festival on Oct. 13 – 14 and 20 – 21 at Meeks Park. Plus, pay a visit to the brand-new Byron Herbert Reece Farm & Heritage Center, which acknowledges the literary legacy of its critically acclaimed namesake and will be inducted into the Southern Literary Trail. visitblairsvillega.com
Chattanooga, Tenn.
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ust a short drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga offers easy access to lots of fall fun with many seasonal events. Visit Ruby Falls on Saturdays and Sundays in
Big Canoe, Ga.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF CHATTANOOGA AREA CVB
on’t miss Big Canoe’s Festival of Homes, featuring new model homes in three Big Canoe
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September for Football at the Falls; enjoy 10 acres of fun with Rock City’s Enchanted MAiZE from Sept 27 – Oct. 28; take haunted hayrides during Blowing Scream Farm’s Forest of Fear on Fridays and Saturdays in October; and explore Ruby Falls Haunted Caverns from Sept. 29 – Oct. 28. If festivals are more your forte, visit during RiverRocks Outdoor Festival for hot air balloon rides, a film fest, live music, hiking, biking, climbing and more Oct. 5 – 14, or attend Wine over Water on Oct. 6 for wine, hors d’oeuvres and live music across the historic Walnut Street Bridge. Enjoy the seasonal scenery with Southern Belle Riverboat’s Fall Leaf Cruises Oct. 13 – Nov. 11, and celebrate Oktoberfest at the Chattanooga Market on Oct. 13. chattanoogacvb.com
Clayton, Ga.
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ffering great variety, Clayton’s unique downtown stores feature the best in art, antiques, books, flowers, hardware, sporting goods, furniture, gifts, home décor, wine and more. While you’re there, sample the delectable dishes at divine restaurants. This season, take a drive or hike around Clayton and see the most spectacular displays of fall colors. Visit during First Friday Fest in September or October, or check out the Foxfire Mountaineer Festival on Oct. 6. downtownclaytonga.org
Cowan Supply’s Anniversary Event
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eaturing various educational seminars and product booths by some of the biggest names in the plumbing industry, an event marking Cowan Supply’s one-year anniversary at its new showroom in Atlanta will make consumers, designers, plumbers and builders aware of the newest technologies that are becoming dominant in kitchens and bathrooms. The event, “Water and Electricity DO Mix,” takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 13, and will also feature door prizes. 404-351-6351, cowansupply.com
Gas South Broadway Series Presents “Chicago”
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n this day and age, when everyone wants more bang for their buck, it’s good to know there’s a “sure thing” — and that’s “Chicago.” It’s got the funniest songs, the hottest dancing, the sexiest cast and the greatest story on Broadway. No wonder “Chicago” has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy and thousands of standing ovations! Purchase tickets now for an upcoming performance Oct. 4 – 7 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. 770-916-2852, gas-southbroadwayseries.com
Georgia Mountain Fair, Hiawassee, Ga.
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he Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds plays host to an array of concerts and several popular annual events, and fall is the perfect time to visit. Snag tickets to Casting Crowns (Oct. 6), George Jones and Confederate Railroad (Nov. 17), or plan a trip for Georgia Mountain Fall Festival from Oct. 12 – 21 for arts & crafts, music shows featuring Aaron Tippin, Bellamy Brothers, Ronnie McDowell and more, and a pioneer village. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com TICKET PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK XCHNG.COM | AVOLORE GUITAR PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK XCHNG.COM | SYDESIGNN
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Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, Western North Carolina
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all is the perfect time to visit Western North Carolina for a railroad excursion. Board at the Bryson City Depot for PEANUTS The Great Pumpkin Patch Express, themed after “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” on weekends in October, or enjoy views of gorgeous fall foliage aboard the premium open air car with a special package that includes a souvenir tumbler, embroidered tote gift bag, and blanket to keep you nice and toasty. 800-872-4681, gsmr.com PHOTO COURTESY OF HENDERSON PARK INN
Henderson Park Inn, Destin, Fla.
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t this adults-only boutique hotel, you can get a slice of paradise all to yourself. With intimate rooms, luxury amenities, charming terraces and more, Henderson Park Inn is the ultimate sanctuary. The Inn’s setting is spectacular, situated directly on the beach, allowing each room a vista of the Gulf of Mexico and the pristine white beaches of Florida’s Emerald Coast. Guests can lounge on complimentary beach chairs with umbrellas, enjoy a picnic on the beach with a gourmet boxed lunch, or bicycle down Scenic 98. Exquisitely designed suites are all unique and feature breathtaking views, flat-screen TV’s, fresh décor and luxurious bedding. Breakfast is included at the Beach Walk restaurant, the only fine-dining experience directly on the Gulf. For dining in the evening, the restaurant features a more intimate
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PHOTO COURTESY OF HISTORIC HENDERSONVILLE
atmosphere with a cozy fireplace and magnificent views. They even offer a “Toes in the Sand Dining” experience for the ultimate romantic evening! hendersonparkinn.com
Hendersonville, N.C. Bask in the bounty of the fall apple harvest amidst the scenic beauty of the Historic Hendersonville, N.C., area. The peak leaf color season lasts from early October to mid-November. Hendersonville is located in Western North Carolina, 22 miles south of Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains on a plateau 2,200 feet above sea level. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers overlooks to view some of America’s finest scenic vistas and fall foliage. The Blue Ridge Parkway is located 15 miles north of Hendersonville. Henderson County is the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina. The apple harvest season runs from late August
through October. Fresh apples, cider and other items may be purchased at the many roadside markets located throughout Henderson County. Some orchards offer tours and allow you to pick apples. For information or to track the fall colors call 800-828-4244 or visit the area’s website. historichendersonville.org
An Authentically Southern Experience Visit And Enjoy Historic Attractions, Dining, Shopping, Lodging, and a Healthy Dose of Hospitality
www.madisonga.org Visitor Center Open Daily | Call (800)709-7406 One Hour East of Atlanta on I-20, Exit 114
For a Virtual Visit Scan Here!
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Join us for these upcoming events: OCTOBER 6th: ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF & FALL FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 3rd: BOSTWICK COTTON GIN FESTIVAL
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LAKOTA COVE is recognized as one of the top elegant mountain furniture galleries.
GATEWOOD HALL GRACIOUS HOME is a nationally recognized award-winning design firm.
B Canoe Big Realty
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FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS CALL: BIG CANOE® REALTY 770-893-2733 or 1-866-244-2266 Visit www.BigCanoe.com
SATURDAYS, SEPTEMBER 8TH & 15TH, 10AM TO 4PM
Visit our 9 new model homes ranging from fully furnished to various stages of construction. Meet with designers and builders to see the newest floor plans and trends in interior design. Speak to a mortgage lender about loan availability and the lowest interest rates in 50 years.
The Village Festival at Big Canoe®
Open Every Saturday: 9AM to 12 noon through October 50 Vendors of Farm Fresh Vegetables, Fruits, Jams & Jellies, Baked items, Shrimp & Seafood directly from the coast, and many other food specialties. Pottery, handmade crafts, jewelry and more.
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High Hampton Inn, Cashiers, N.C.
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ith several seasonal events, fall is the perfect time to visit this 1,400-acre retreat. Visit Sept. 10 for Dinner in the Dahlias, a multi-course meal amidst stunning flowers; Sept. 23 – 26 for Fall Golf School; Oct. 4 for a Wellness Retreat; Oct. 7 for an Apple Festival; Oct. 7 – 9 for a Wildflower Workshop; Oct. 19 – 21 to celebrate Oktoberfest with German cuisine and music; and Nov. 21 – 25 for a Thanksgiving Houseparty. highhamptoninn.com PHOTO COURTESY OF INN AT HALF-MILE FARM
Inn at Half-Mile Farm, Highlands, N.C.
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njoy a magnificent blend of past and present at this luxurious bed & breakfast, offering inns and cabins that are perfect for romantic getaways and intimate gatherings. A September special for Points North readers allows guests who pay for two nights to add a third night at no additional charge Sunday through Thursday. Plus, mark your calendar for events like a European Wine Dinner (Oct. 26) and a South American dinner during Highlands Culinary Weekend (Nov. 8 – 11). 800-946-6822, halfmilefarm.com
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The King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort, St. Simons, Ga.
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he King and Prince is gearing up for a fun fall season, participating in both the Shrimp & Grits Festival (Sep. 14 – 16 on Jekyll Island), and the 1st Annual St. Simons Food & Spirits Festival (Sep. 22 at Gascoigne Bluff on St. Simons). The resort is also offering a “Back to School” special on select dates. kingandprince.com
Madison-Morgan County, Ga.
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he vibrant downtown of Madison boasts more than 165 antiques dealers, boutique shops and unique eateries, as well as food, art, music and agricultural festivals throughout the year, and Morgan County is fast becoming a hub of the local food movement. Meander through this area and you’ll find fields of sunflowers, Christmas trees, bright yellow
canola, peach orchards, organic vegetable farms and more. For a list of festivals, such as a chili cook-off (Oct. 6) and Bostwick Cotton Gin Festival (Nov. 3), visit the Madison Welcome Center. visitmadison.com
The Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah, Ga.
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verlooking Savannah’s largest and most historic square, this boutique Kessler Collection property is the city’s most iconic hotel with rich, polished décor and a luxe art collection. This season, enjoy the ultimate weekend excursion at the 126-room Victorian Romanesque mansion with a “Day at the Mansion,” including one night in lavish accommodations, a three-course dinner for two at 700 Drayton
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PHOTO COURTESY OF MANSION ON FORSYTH PARK
restaurant, a couple’s massage at Poseidon spa, and two trolley tickets to explore Historic Savannah. 888-213-3671, mansiononforsythpark.com
Menopause the Musical, Duluth, Ga. The international hit show “Menopause The Musical” will play at the Gwinnett Center in Duluth for 12 performances Oct. 4 – 14. It doesn’t necessarily mean women in Duluth are more prone to symptoms of “The Change,” but it does mean they will find joy in sharing their experiences! Set in a department store, where four women meet by chance at a lingerie sale, the all-female cast makes fun of their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges. A sisterhood is created between these diverse women as they realize that
PHOTO COURTESY OF MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL
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menopause is no longer “The Silent Passage!â€? It is a stage in every woman’s life that is perfectly normal. Written by Jeanie Linders and produced by GFour Productions, the laughter-ďŹ lled 90-minute show includes parodies from the classics of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. For tickets, visit gwinnettcenter.com or call 800-745-3000. menopausethemusical.com
Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation, Watkinsville
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his fall, OCAF’s “Perspectives: A Georgia Pottery Invitational� will not only feature pottery as the principal attraction, but also an exhibition of work created by wood artisans, handcrafted utilitarian clay vessels, and art objects Sept. 1 – 19. This year marks the 10th anniversary of OCAF’s signature program, boasting the largest pottery display in Georgia, with 50 invited potters offering more than 5,000 pieces of functional pottery for sale in OCAF’s Rocket Hall. 706-769-4565, ocaf.com
You’ll Come to Visit and Never Want to Leave
BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA
Check out our championship golf, hiking, horseback riding, ďŹ shing, water sports and tennis. Enjoy arts, crafts, antiquing, concerts, fairs and festivals. From charming cabins to full service conference resorts, this mountaintop is designed to make our getaways always memorable. For more information about the Hiawassee and Young Harris, Ga area contact Towns County Chamber of Commerce at: 800-984-1543.
Santa Rosa, Fla.
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nown for its “beaches to riversâ€? scenery, there is something for the whole family in Santa Rosa, from arts and culture to musical performances and outdoor events. Fall brings mild temperatures, discounted rates, beautiful sunsets and countless festivals. Build your weekend around the Navarre Beach Sand Sculpting Festival, Sept. 28 – 30, where the world’s best sculptors turn pure white sands into pure works of art. Navarre Beach is home to one of only 10 National Seashores, offering an 8-mile haven of pristine undeveloped coastline. The area also encompasses another main vacation destination, the Blackwater River State Park. Known as the “Canoe Capital of Florida,â€? it is the state’s largest forest, offering a gateway to adventure. Vacationers can also enjoy ďŹ shing from the new Navarre Beach Pier, the Gulf of Mexico’s longest ďŹ shing pier in Florida, and visiting the Gulf Breeze Zoo, a 50-acre facility featuring hundreds of animals from around the world. oridabeachestorivers.com
Scenic 197, North Georgia
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cenic Hwy 197 is the path to some of North Georgia’s best attractions, and is a must-see at this time
PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK XCHNG.COM | MATTGOY
of year, beckoning drivers to roll down the windows and hit the road. Along the way, find handcrafted pottery and a view of the Soque River at Mark of the Potter, the oldest craft shop in Georgia (markofthepotter.com), visit LaPrade’s Marina, the only full-service marina on Lake Burton (lapradesmarina.com), pick up gifts for the home at Cottage Garden (706-947-1601), find functional stoneware at Hickory Flat Pottery (hickoryflatpottery.com), explore unique arts and crafts at Soque ArtWorks (soqueartworks.com), grab a bite to eat at Batesville General Store Restaurant (706-9473434), enjoy food and live music at Laurel Lodge Restaurant right off Lake Burton (laurellodgerestaurant.com) and rest your head at the quaint and cozy North 40 Lodge for an evening (north40lodge.com). www.scenic197.com
Seaside, Fla.
T
he Seeing Red Wine Festival in Seaside, Fla., is one of the most highly anticipated events of the season. Taking place Nov. 1 – 4, Seaside’s highlighted events on Friday and Saturday allow wine novices and connoisseurs alike to sample specialty wines from around the world. Attendees will enjoy an extensive array of tasting tents in America’s classic beach town. Join fellow wine aficionados on Saturday for the Grand Tasting throughout Seaside, or attend a reserve event, brunch or dinner. seeingredwinefestival.com The Cottage Rental Agency, the festival’s sponsor, will offer several accommodation packages on festival weekend. As the premier provider of the best Seaside, Fla., rentals for decades, CRA offers the largest collection of private vacation homes, including one to six-bedroom cottages, bed and breakfast rooms with private baths, luxury townhouses, penthouses and beachfront hideaways. 866-976-7990, cottagerentalagency.com
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highl ands, north car olina 800.946.6822 | 828.526.8170 stay@halfmilefarm.com www.halfmilefarm.com
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S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
Favorite Fall Festivals &
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Towns County, Ga.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK XCHNG.COM | RFORKEL
ith an array of activities, the communities of Young Harris and Hiawassee make the perfect destination this season. Check out Hightower Creek Vineyards After-Hour Music Series for live entertainment, light fare and wine (various dates in September), the Lake Chatuge Charity Golf Classic at Brasstown Valley Resort (Sept. 14), Summer’s Last Kiss — An Affair with the Arts on the square in Hiawassee (Sept. 29 – 30), Brasstown Valley Resort’s new art exhibit opening (Nov. 9), and more. mountaintopga.com
White County, Ga.
T
here are many things to do in White County this fall. Outdoor recreation is abundant and popular; climb Mount Yonah, hike the Appalachian Trail, go fishing and more. In Cleveland, you’ll find shopping, Babyland General and Agri-Fest/Country Market and Pottery on Sept. 29. Sautee-Nacoochee is known for its art galleries, studios, museums and theater. And the premier event this season is Oktoberfest, featuring German music, dancing, food and drink in Helen Sept. 13 – Oct. 28. whitecountychamber.org
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S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
T
here’s an indescribable feeling that
comes with the onset of fall. Perhaps it’s the cool, crisp air, the trees awash in fall color, or the festivals dotting the calendar; in any case, this time of year makes us crave a getaway to the North Georgia mountains, particularly to Blue Ridge in Fannin County. Here, there is no shortage of cabin rentals available to accommodate any size group, from couples seeking a romantic retreat to families looking to reconnect. Accommodations from companies like Mountain Top Cabin Rentals, Blue Sky Cabin Rentals and Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals feature incredible amenities such as fireplaces, hot tubs, wireless Internet, game rooms and picturesque views, and many are located on prime property along rivers, creeks or mountain peaks. If you prefer guest room accommodations, consider Blue Ridge Lodge by Comfort Inn and Suites, which combines warmth and comfort with firstclass hotel amenities, or the Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast, a circa-1890s Victorian inn. Filled with galleries, antique and specialty shops, restaurants and a small-town atmosphere, Downtown Blue Ridge beckons visitors to stroll its streets for shopping and dining.
When hunger strikes, head to Harvest on Main for savory comfort foods in a lively home setting, or venture into nearby Morganton to Cucina Rustica for Italian country cuisine. Searching for an excursion? Board the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a ride along the Toccoa River from Downtown Blue Ridge to McCaysville, where visitors can enjoy even more shopping, art galleries and eateries. While you’re in the area, pick your own apples and sample fantastic fried apple pies at Mercier Orchards, hike to nearby waterfalls along the forested trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest or cast a line on the Toccoa River. For an extra dose of fun, plan your visit around one of the area’s upcoming festivals. During The Blue Ridge Blues and Barbeque Festival, Sept. 21 and 22, the air in Downtown Blue Ridge fills with the smooth sounds of blues musicians and the sweet smell of slow-smoked meats from local and regional cookers. Later this season, mark your calendar for Fall Arts in the Park (Oct. 13 – 14), Blue Ridge Marching Festival (Oct. 13), Fall Fest Arts & Crafts Fair (Oct. 20 – 28), Paws in the Park (Oct. 27), and Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Pumpkin Pickin’ Special (Oct. 28). The opportunities are endless; it’s time to head north!
FOR MORE INFORMATION Georgia’s Blue Ridge 800-899-MTNS (6867) blueridgemountains.com
Blue Sky Cabin Rentals 706-636-2226 blueskycabinrentals.com
Blue Ridge Inn B&B 706-632-0222 blueridgeinnbandb.com
Mercier Orchards 706-632-3411 mercier-orchards.com
Blue Ridge Lodge by Comfort Inn and Suites 706-946-3333 comfortinnofblueridge.com
Mountain Top Cabin Rentals 706-258-6220 mountaintopcabinrentals.com
Blue Ridge Lodging Association blueridgelodgingassociation.com
Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals 706-258-3737 southerncomfortcabinrentals.com
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No need to scour the ‘Net in search of accommodations – simply choose one of the members of the Blue Ridge Lodging Association featured on this page! All of our members offer quality and value, and adhere to lodging guidelines to ensure the best experience. To find accommodations, visit blueridgelodgingassociation.com.
& Well A WILL TO BE Local Wish-Fulfillment Organizations Shine Some Light into the Lives of Childhood Cancer Patients
Will Abernathy
{ W R IT T E N BY E L ISABE T H WA R R I C K }
to
look at him, you’d never
know. Will Abernathy has bouncy blonde curls, big blue eyes and as much energy as any average 4 year old, possibly even more. But Will has to deal with something most kids his age don’t: neuroblastoma, a cancer that, according to the Mayo Clinic’s Web site, develops in the nerve cells and occurs most often in children under 5 years old. In the fall of 2010, Will appeared to be a completely healthy toddler. Then he began showing signs of leg pain. Thinking that he had perhaps pulled a muscle, Will’s mother took him to the doctor’s office where, even after a thorough examination, they couldn’t find anything wrong with him. A few weeks later, Will began vomiting regularly. His parents, Melody and Don, made several trips to the emergency room and Will was eventually admitted to the hospital. When his symptoms did not improve, the doctors were forced to investigate further. A series of x-rays revealed a tumor on his left adrenal gland. This boy, who previously had only made “well visits” to his pediatrician, was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer. The primary tumor on his adrenal gland was revealed to have spread throughout his bones, his arms, his legs, the back of his spine and had started to form another tumor on the back of his skull. They started treatment the next day. Following his diagnosis in November 2010, Will has undergone six rounds of chemotherapy at Children’s Healthcare
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ABERNATHY FAMILY
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&
{ A W I L L TO B E W E L L }
of Atlanta, in addition to a tumor resection on his left adrenal gland, a round of outpatient chemo, and numerous ER admissions for fever and blood and platelet transfusions. Although this is standard procedure for most neuroblastoma patients, and the next step is radiation, Will’s body did not respond as expected. From then on, his treatment would be determined by the medical studies in which his parents enrolled him. First, Will visited The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for two rounds of MIBG treatment, which the CHOP Web site describes as an injection of a radioactive chemical in combination with a compound that selectively seeks out cancer cells. After the second round, Will’s doctor recommended taking an experimental “ALK inhibitor” drug. Since September of 2011, he’s been taking this drug (10 pills a day), and
& outwardly has seemed very healthy. But in May of this year, the doctors at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta determined that Will does show signs of additional cancerous growth, so he’s discontinuing that treatment and has been enrolled in a new study in Michigan. Melody Abernathy said that since Will began these experimental drugs last fall, his quality of life has risen dramatically. The drugs he was taking caused minimal side effects and she and her husband want to enroll Will in a new treatment program that will “let him go ahead and have the same kind of lifestyle that he’s having right now.” Will may still have cancer, but “he goes to preschool, he goes to church, he takes swim lessons, karate, he’s in gymnastics — there are no restrictions on anything he does,” Abernathy said. Because Will has been feeling so well, his family has been trying to fit in as much fun for him as they can, both
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ABERNATHY FAMILY
ask a DOCTOR Dr. Todd Cooper, Oncologist and Researcher with Aflac Cancer Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, answered a few questions we had concerning childhood cancers. What are the typical forms of childhood cancers and how rare are they? Cancers in children are relatively uncommon, with about 1 in 7,000 kids being diagnosed before 15 years of age. The most common forms are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and brain tumors. Other cancers of childhood include Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, neuroblastoma, tumors of the bone (osteosarcoma or ewings sarcoma), or tumors of the muscle (rhabdomyosarcoma). What symptoms should parents watch out for? Leukemia is a disease of the bone marrow, [which is] where our blood cells are born. White cells fight infection, red cells are important for carrying oxygen around the body, and platelets help to prevent and
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control bleeding. So, the most common findings in leukemia are infection, fatigue, and bruising along with easy bleeding. Children with leukemia often come to the doctor looking very pale, have bruises all over the body, and may have fever. Their bones might hurt and young kids might be limping or refuse to walk. Sometimes, children have very swollen glands or lymph nodes in different areas on their body. Children with brain tumors usually present very differently, and the way they present depends on their age and location and size of the tumor. The symptoms might be very non-specific such as new onset of clumsiness, fatigue, poor school performance or personality changes. Headaches and vomiting are very common. Children can have acute visual changes if the tumor is located in the optic pathway. Other symptoms may be very dramatic, such as seizures, paralysis of portions of the body, or blindness. When should parents take their child to a specialist? Most often, children who present these symptoms make their way to the pediatrician first. Pediatricians are highly trained to recognize the symptoms of
childhood cancer. If you go to the pediatrician with these types of symptoms, they will often ask you to have your blood drawn as a screen to see if you have leukemia. If your child is extremely ill, you should go to the emergency room. It is very rare for us to see a child with cancer before a primary care or emergency room physician. However, for the treatment of childhood cancer, you should definitely seek care with a specialist. Most pediatric oncologists are located at large children’s hospitals or treatment centers. These doctors are highly trained to deal in all aspects of cancer and blood disorders. Are there any early detection methods for cancer in children? For the most part, children are not regularly screened for cancer. It is not necessary to have frequent x-rays or blood draws on children who are not sick. However, parents should always be vigilant and take their children to the pediatrician if they think something is wrong. I know that I’ve been trained that mom (and sometimes dad) always knows best and to always listen carefully to their concerns.
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{ F E AT U R E H E A D E R }
Ashlee Cole
Belle Conring PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ANGEL PHOTOGRAPHY
through wish-fulfillment organizations and in their everyday lives. “We do the movies, we go to the pool, we do just anything and everything we can think of to keep him entertained and happy while he is well and able,” Abernathy said. Just then, Will jumped in with a silly dance and asked when they will be leaving for the pool. “I can go under water now!” Will proudly boasted. “I can go all the way to the bottom!” “Everything we do is based around Will and making him happy,” his mom said. It’s a sentiment shared by many.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA HOROWITZ PHOTOGRAPHY
{ A W I L L TO B E W E L L }
★
NOTE: At presstime, Melody Abernathy had updated Will’s CarePage, the hospital-sponsored Web tool she uses to update friends and family, to say that Will is doing great with his experimental treatment and isn’t suffering from any side effects. To get updates on Will’s progress, you can create an account and subscribe to his CarePage, carepages.com/carepages/WillAbernathyCarePage.
Darrien Salter PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA HOROWITZ PHOTOGRAPHY
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Making Memories One Wish at a Time Parents of kids like Will want to take advantage when their children are feeling well to make those happy
★
memories. That’s where national organizations like Make-A-Wish and locally based groups such as Kingdom Kids can really help out. Make-a-Wish, perhaps the best known wish-fulfillment organization, was founded in 1980 in Phoenix, Ariz., when volunteers banded together to grant the wish of 7-year-old Chris Greicius, who was battling leukemia and wished to be a police officer, said Fabiola Charles, Vice President of Communications and External Affairs of Make-A-Wish Georgia & Alabama. A close family friend heard about Chris’ wish, so he and his law enforcement buddies planned an amazing day for him. They took Chris on a helicopter ride to the Department of Public Safety Headquarters, where he was sworn in as the first — and only — honorary state trooper. The volunteers who helped make his dreams come true were so affected by the impact that it had, they were compelled to create similar experiences for other children battling life-threatening illnesses. Make-A-Wish Georgia was founded in 1995, and since then, they’ve been able to affect the lives of more than 5,000 children. “Most of our wishes fall into four categories: I wish to have; I wish to be; I wish to go; or I wish to meet,” Charles said. “Some of our children wish for laptop computers that they can use to entertain themselves while they are in the hospital facing long and constant treatments, like chemotherapy or blood transfusions. Other children wish to transform themselves, if only for a day. We’ve had children wish to be everything from police officers to princesses to recording artists! And while many children wish to meet their favorite celebrities, our most popular wish is a trip to Disney.” One example of a child helped by Make-A-Wish is 6-year-old Isabelle
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{ A W I L L TO B E W E L L } Conring, better known as “Belle,” who suffers from Gorham’s disease, a rare medical condition that causes the bones in the body to virtually disappear. With a name like Belle, wishing to be a princess just comes naturally and in May of this year, Make-A-Wish created a fairy-tale afternoon to remember. Bedecked in a gown to fit the occasion, Belle arrived at her princess party in a horse-drawn carriage, as trumpeters announced her arrival and ballerinas put on a special performance. Meanwhile, 7-year-old Darrien Salter, who suffers from neurofibromatosis (tumors that grow along nerves in the body or on/under the skin), fulfilled his wish of being a police officer. He arrived at the Smyrna Police Department in his Hummer limo, put on his uniform, was sworn in by the Mayor, attended his shift meeting and then set off to protect and to serve. And after pronouncing her wish to be a chef, Ashlee Cole, a 10-year-old diagnosed with a brain tumor, spent an entire day with Chef John Oechsner at the Art Institute of Atlanta Creations Kitchen & Restaurant. Reveling in the cooking experience of a lifetime, she donned a toque and chef clothes as she executed her menu and served a table full of proud supporters. A Kingdom of Kindness Kingdom Kids, a similar, more homegrown organization, was founded in Cumming in 2009. Co-founder Kevin Ford described the organization as “a local non-profit founded with the intention to help children and families in our local community who need a bright moment, or a wish filled to spread some joy into their otherwise challenge-filled days.” Although Kingdom Kids is a smaller organization, staffed solely by volunteers, 100 percent of incoming
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donations go to helping families. Jodi Ford, Kingdom Kids’ Vice President of Public Relations and Communications, said that the organization makes a point to fulfi ll wishes of all sizes. They’ve granted big trip-based wishes to places like Wimbledon, Disney World, California and New York City, as well as a trip to meet Carrie Underwood and Scotty McCreery in Nashville. “Sometimes, though, the wish may be as simple as providing a child’s last family portrait, a recorder for capturing a child’s voice, or even a headstone for a mother to bury her child,” she said. Both Make-A-Wish and Kingdom Kids tout the belief that every child facing a life-threatening medical condition deserves the transformational experience that a wish can provide. Will was able to benefit from both the Make-A-Wish and Kingdom Kids organizations. In the summer of 2011, Kingdom Kids sponsored a beach trip for Will and his family, and they were able to travel together again when Make-A-Wish sponsored a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas. Will said he liked it because all the characters were on board. “Pinocchio was there! Tinkerbell! Minnie Mouse!” He also said he had so much fun he is ready to go back. PN
FOR MORE INFORMATION The second annual Will to Win 5K, benefitting the family of Will Abernathy, will take place on Nov. 3. To register, please visit willtowin5k.blogspot.com. You can volunteer your time, money, even your airline miles to help support the wish fulfillment organization of your choice. Find out more by going to the organizational Web sites below:
★
Make-A-Wish Georgia & Alabama ga-al.wish.org Kingdom Kids supportkingdomkids.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Colleges & Universities
W
hether you are trying to help your children make the transition to college, or considering going back to school yourself, consider these tips from enrollment and admissions experts.
Rank your priorities of what you’re looking for in Find an environment where you will be chal“a school. “ Make yourself competitive. Don’t prolenged to grow in every area of life. The right crastinate. If you dream of attending college, do the necessary steps now to ensure it becomes a reality later.
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is no better way to know if a college is “rightThere for you than to experience and see it first hand. Encouraging a campus visit is always a great idea!
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Choosing the right continuing education course “requires a keen understanding of your personal and professional objectives. It’s important that you be able to articulate your goals and assess your commitment to accomplishing them — even while juggling multiple priorities.
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Invest in yourself. ABOUT ECE Emory Continuing Education (ECE) is Emory University’s noncredit continuing education division, offering hundreds of open enrollment courses and 20 certificate programs.
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calendar
C OMP IL E D BY K AT H RI N A ST. F L AV I N Calendar submissions should be sent to calendar@ptsnorth.com two months prior to the month in which the event will occur. Please note that dates and times might change.
PERFORMING ARTS W H AT I LE A R N E D I N PA R I S
[Sept. 5 – 30] Celebrated Atlanta author and playwright Pearl Cleage continues her tenure as the Alliance Artist in Dialogue with the premiere of her play “What I Learned in Paris.” Get tangled in this politically charged and passion-filled romantic comedy set in 1970s Atlanta. The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta 404-733-5000 alliancetheatre.org
ITH I N K I M P R OV TR O U P E [Sept. 7] Enjoy family-friendly amusement with City Center’s iThink Improv Troupe. This non-profit improv troupe aims to introduce families to theatrical arts through plenty of laughter. The performance begins at 9 p.m. City Center, Woodstock 678-494-4251 elmstreetarts.org
S N O W W H ITE TE A PA R T Y [Sept. 7] Snow White invites all local princesses to a royal tea party. Enjoy delectable treats as Snow White sings and shares her story. A price of $16.50 includes meal, tax and gratuity. Please call for reservations. Tea Leaves and Thyme, Woodstock 770-516-2609 elmstreetarts.org
S N OW W H ITE A N D TH E M AG I C M I R R O R [Sept. 14 & 21] This classic story gets a new retelling. Snow White finds a new friend in a Magic Mirror in her castle but still finds her way to the forest to meet the comical dwarves. City Center, Woodstock 678-794-4251 elmstreetarts.org
WICKED
[S EPT. 29] YSC TOUR DE PINK See page 87 PHOTO COURTESY OF ALPHARETTA CVB
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[Sept. 14 – Oct. 9] The New York Times proclaimed “defining musical of the decade” returns to Atlanta. Follow the Wicked Witch of the West and Galinda the Good on their journeys through the land of Oz. Fox Theatre, Atlanta 404-881-2100 foxtheatre.org
A N Y TH I N G G O E S [Sept. 21 – Oct. 7] Don’t miss this three-time Tony Award-winning musical. Follow this love story on board the S.S. American. We dare you to keep signature tunes, like “It’s De-lovely” or “Anything Goes” out of your head! Strand Theatre, Marietta 404-377-9948 atlantalyrictheatre.com
S LE E P I N G B E AUT Y [Sept. 26 – Oct. 7] This marionette performance takes the audience on a journey through the eyes of Prince Stefan. Join the Prince as he sets out to save the sleeping Aurora and her kingdom. Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta 404-873-3391 puppet.org
ARTS AND EXHIBITS A R T I N TH E PA R K
[Sept. 1 – 3] The Marietta Square continues its 26-year tradition of this fine art showcase and artist market. Come out to support national and local artists. Visitors will enjoy displayed art, an artist market, a children’s art gallery and the well-known Painted Pots. Glover Park, Marietta 770-592-7180 artparkmarietta.com
George Davis PHOTOGRAPHY
“On Location” photographer specializing in:
TH R O U G H TH E LE N S
Family Pictures, Senior
[Sept. 8 – 16] The Sawnee Artists Association invites the community to take a look “Through the Lens.” This annual juried exhibit and sale of fine art photography features talented photographers from all over the state. This event is free and open to the public. Sexton Hall Enrichment Center, Cumming 770-664-5850 throughthelensphotoshow.org
Portraits, Corporate, Nature, Events, Freelance, Maternity, Engagement.....
H OT G L A S S S H OW [Sept. 12 – 16] The High is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Studio Glass Movement by hosting the Corning Museum’s Hot Glass Mobile Show. Visitors will experience live glass blowing demonstrations, “You design it, we make it” sessions, and guest appearances by artists Richard Jolley, Johanna
Visit us on FaceBook at Geo Photography
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calendar [SE P T. 15] Streetfest See page 88
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARIETTA STREETFEST
Grawunder and Radcliffe Bailey. This celebration is free to the public. The High Museum, Atlanta 404-733-4400 high.org
R O S W E LL A R T S F E S TI VA L
ALTOBELI’S RESTAURANT & PIANO BAR
[Sept. 15 – 16] The city of Roswell invites you to the 46th annual Roswell Arts Festival. This year’s festival will feature talented artisans, performances, children’s entertainment and food vendors. Historic Town Square, Roswell roswellartsfestival.com
CONCERTS
M U S I C I N TH E G A R D E N S
For 23 years, Altobeli’s has set the standard for fine
dining in north Fulton by combining excellent Italian cuisine and great live entertainment. Since the beginning, our guests enjoy our unobtrusive, yet attentive service, and a classic menu that has evolved over time.
YOU’LL ENJOY THESE MENU FAVORITES: • Gluten-free grilled salmon • Grouper a la Toscana • Veal & Sausage Cacciatore • Filet Gorgonzola • Pasta Levronaze • Linguine Carbonara • Chicken Paisano • Shrimp & Scallop al Forno OPEN 11 A.M.-2 P.M. TUES-FRI FOR LUNCH AND DAILY AT 5 P.M. FOR DINNER
Call 770.664.8055 for reservations or book online www.altobelis.com 3000 OLD ALABAMA ROAD, ALPHARETTA 30022
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[Sept. 3] Visit Gibbs Gardens as live music entertains visitors. Enjoy strolling violinists in the Pleasance and Grandchildren’s Sculpture gardens, and at the Arbor Café; strolling flutists in the Japanese and Waterlily gardens; and a harpist in the Manor House Gardens. Gibbs Gardens, Ball Ground 770-893-1880 gibbsgardens.com
CHARITY EVENTS B AT TLE O F TH E B AT S
[Sept. 8] The Special Olympics-Forsyth County will hold its 5th annual Battle of the Bats. Twenty-two Special Olympic softball teams from Georgia and bordering states attend this competition. Central Park, Cumming 770-317-3562 soforsyth.com
R I S E ‘ N R U N 5 K /1 K [Sept. 8] The Cottage School and North Fulton Community Charities invite you to support the 6th annual Rise ‘N Run 5k/1k event. This race will raise funding for North Fulton Community Charities programming. Hembree Springs Elementary School, Roswell 770-640-0399 nfcchelp.org
TA S TE O F P O LO [Sept. 9] Catch a polo match and sample great food from local restaurants at a special benefit for children with disabilities, sponsored by the Innovative Health Foundation. Chukkar Farm, Alpharetta innovativehealthfoundation.org
R O S W E LL R OTA RY A N N UA L G O LF TO U R N A M E NT [Sept. 10] The largest community fundraiser in the state of Georgia returns. The Aubrey Greenway Golf Tournament has raised millions of dollars in the past nine years and invested proceeds into various community charities. This day-long event will feature a silent auction, live auction, raffle and plenty of mini events throughout the day. Brookfield Country Club, Roswell 678-318-3647 roswellrotarygolf.com
OV E R TU R E G A L A [Sept. 23] Support the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Foundation and
appreciate a night of jazz and soul with Al Jarreau and Ramsey Lewis. Cobb Energy Center, Atlanta 770-916-2103 cobbenergycentre.com
PAW S I N TH E PA R K [Sept. 23] This event is an activity for the whole family — dogs included! Bring Fido to the festivities that include K-9 nosework, Jack Russell, racing, obedience and agility training. This is the second annual dog walk event beneďŹ tting the Atlanta Pet Rescue and Adoption (APRA). Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta pawsintheparkatlanta.org
P O LO F O R PA R K I N S O N ’ S
reserve seats. Benihana, Alpharetta 770-664-4087 apsfoundation.org
YS C T O U R D E P I N K [Sept. 29] Atlanta’s only bike ride for breast cancer accommodates all riders. Rides for the Tour de Pink range from 1 to 100 miles, plus 5k courses for runners and walkers. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Alpharetta 678-297-2811 awesomealpharetta.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
N I B B LE A N D N O S H F E S T
[Sept. 23] The Wilkins Parkinson’s Foundation invites the community to a day of polo, music, food and fun in support of Parkinson’s Disease. A silent auction and “Best Hat� contest will follow the polo event. Chukkar Farm and Polo Club, Alpharetta, 770-804-0218 wilkins-pf.org
[Sept. 2 – 3] Get a taste of Jewish and additional ethnic foods in this two-day family festival. Nibble and Noshfest features activities for everyone — stop by craft vendor stands and visit the children’s activities area. Admission is two canned goods that will be donated to Must Ministries. Temple Kol Emeth, Marietta noshfest.com
R E D A N D B LU E C O O K F O R YO U
Y E LLOW DA I S Y F E S TI VA L
[Sept. 29] Come out to the Benihana on Mansell Road and support the Alpharetta Public Safety Foundation’s mission to ensure that Alpharetta remains a safe place to live and work. The fundraiser will include dinner, drinks, entertainment, a silent auction and a showcase of public safety vehicles. Call to
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[Sept. 6 – 9] Gather your family and friends for fun, shopping, live entertainment, clogging, crafter demonstrations and food as more than 400 artists and crafters from 38 states and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Stone Mountain Park, stonemountainpark.com
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[Sept. 11] Join the city of Woodstock and the Woodstock Jaycees as they remember those who lost their lives on 9/11 and honor the sacriďŹ ces of the servicemen and women who continue to ďŹ ght for our freedom. The Park at City Center, Woodstock 770-517-6788 woodstockga.gov
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calendar [SE P T. 20 –30 ] PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR
North Georgia State Fair
C E LI AC A N D G LUTE N I NTO LE R A N C E M E E TI N G [Sept. 15] The Gluten Intolerance Group of Atlanta presents a presentation by Dr. Cynthia Rudert M.D., F.A.C.P. The lecture topic is “Celiac Disease and Gluten Related Disorder: Your Questions Answered.� A question and answer session will follow the presentation. Children’s Health Center of Atlanta (Scottish Rite), Atlanta gigofatlanta.com
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N UT T Y N ATU R E DAY [Sept. 15] Bring the kids and enjoy a day full of nature-themed activities at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Families can watch the Falling Debris Show, meet the Tree Man, listen to Miss Julia’s Storytime, decorate a Tree Face, and participate in the Nature Joke Scavenger Hunt. Chattahoochee Nature Center, Roswell 770-992-2055 chattnaturecenter.org
S TR E E TF E S T [Sept. 15] The 21st annual Marietta Streetfest will focus on local businesses. Show your Georgia pride by patronizing Georgia antique dealers and artisans and visiting the Kids Zone and Hubcaps and History Classic Car Show. Glover Park, Marietta 770-794-5710 mariettastreetfest.com
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Points North | September 2012 | ptsnorth.com
I R O N K I D S A LP H A R E T TA [Sept. 16] Come out and make a commitment to
ďŹ tness by supporting the largest Iron Kids event in the country. Kids ages 6 – 15 will compete in an age-appropriate distance race, swim and bike race. To volunteer or register, visit the IronKids official website. Wills Park, Alpharetta 678-297-1811 ironkids.com
W E D D I N G A LLI A N C E O F N O R TH G E O R G I A B R I DA L S H OWC A S E [Sept. 16] Presented by the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau, this showcase will feature more than 40 vendors such as hotels, event facilities, caterers and more. The Metropolitan Club, Alpharetta 678-297-2811 awesomealpharetta.com
N O R TH G E O R G I A S TATE FA I R [Sept. 20 – 30] The largest metro Atlanta fair is back! The North Georgia Fair features live music, free attractions and shows, farm animals, ower shoes, blue ribbon competitions, local entertainment, fair foods and rides. Jim R. Miller Park, Marietta northgeorgiastatefair.com
FA LL H O M E S H OW [Sept. 21 – 23] Give your home the attention it deserves and check out the hundreds of exhibits at the Fall Atlanta Home Show. HGTV’s John Gidding will be the headline speaker at this year’s home show. Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta 770-798-1997 atlantahomeshow.com
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W R IT T E N BY TAYLOR K N OWLES
PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
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Spend a Day in the Park. Leave the electronics at home and enjoy the serenity bestowed by Mother Nature. Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites are offering free admission and parking to all Georgia residents and visitors on Sept. 29, a celebration they are calling Your State Parks Day. Mountain bike on the trails of Fort Yargo or join a wildlife kayaking expedition at Hard Labor Creek. Cabins, lodges and campgrounds allow visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation including fishing, boating, geocaching and golf. For more details, visit georgiastateparks.org.
Black Rock Mountain State Park
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LOGO COURTESY OF DESIGNING DREAMS
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Donate for Design. Designing Dreams, a non-profit dedicated to helping individuals in emotional or physical crisis, is hosting its fourth annual gathering at the RBM Mercedes showroom in Alpharetta on Sept. 27. In addition to helping those in need, guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and a silent auction of items donated by local businesses, as well as the opportunity to win a four-night, all-inclusive stay at Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort in Costa Rica. All proceeds will benefit the 2012 room makeover. For more information, visit designingdreams.org.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TINA SOUCIE
3 4 LOGO COURTESY OF TASTE OF CHAMBLEE
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Pig Out! The Atlanta Bar-B-Q Festival is set to ignite on Sept. 14 and will surely have your mouth watering. This two-day celebration will highlight a variety of barbecue flavor, plus live music, cooking demos and an interactive kids’ area. Atlanta’s best barbecue restaurants will be serving their specialties, and more than 50 teams from across the country will gather in Atlantic Station to compete. Tickets are $6 in advance and $10 the day of the festival, and sample-sized portions of barbecue cost $1. For additional information, visit atlbbqfest.com. Shop Like a European. Those with unique and eclectic tastes will not want to miss a European Market featuring vintage furnishings, handcrafted jewelry, fashion, decorative gifts, art and a variety of gourmet foods. Atlanta’s finest artisans and gatherers will pitch their tents in the Historic District of Alpharetta for only two days to display an assortment of one-of-a-kind items. The market will open Sept. 22 between Main Street and Roswell Road. For more information, visit awesomealpharetta.com. Tempt Your Taste Buds. Come hungry as the city of Chamblee transforms for a day of food, drink and music! Taste of Chamblee: A Festival for the Senses will be held Sept. 15 and will include fun activities and tasting tents featuring good eats like Vintage Pizzeria and High Road Craft Ice Cream. Admission is free, and proceeds from tasting tickets benefit the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation. For more information, visit thetasteofchamblee.com.