FREE TO A GOOD HOME
Vol. 1, Issue 2 April/May 2014
Milton•Alpharetta magazine
spring fever
live • work • shop • play • pray locally
Restaurants w/ Outdoor Seating April - May Calendar Summer Camps Veterinary Update Natural Allergy Remedies Real Estate Market Update Rec Baseball
The ULTIMATE Golf Swing
Easter and Mother’s Day Looks
Cover Image by Heather 1 Photographers
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2 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
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Hi.
So what do you think? Are we finally going to have warmer weather? This April/May issue of Milton-Alpharetta Magazine is packed full of spring things: baseball, tennis, golf, seasonal allergy tips, a piece on restaurants with outdoor seating, and another on spring fashions for Easter and Mother’s Day. Our Summer Camp Guide describes a plethora of exciting things for your children to do this summer. It’s time to register now --- camps fill up! I promised when we launched this magazine in February that I would probably make mistakes; and I already made one! Last issue, we failed to give photo credit to Ashley Blencoe of Blenco&Co. Photographic Arts. This error turned into a blessing; however, because Ashley and Milton-Alpharetta Magazine have developed a strong partnership out of it!
Weekly Youth Art Camps & Drama Camps and Teen Art Camp at various schools in North Fulton. Youth Art Camp: June 3 – July 25 • 9:00 – 3:00 Drama Camp: June 3 – June 27 • 9:00 – 2:00 Teen Art Camp: July 28 – August 1 • 10:00 – 2:00 Join the fun for one week or more! We will be drawing, painting, exploring clay, hip hop dancing, cartooning and more!!! Of course there will be lots of laughing and smiling and just having fun! Our camp is taught by all professional artists.
The next couple of months involve spring break, graduations, proms, Mother’s Day and Easter. My favorite day of the year is Good Friday, which falls on April 18 this year. I love going to Church, sitting in silence, doing the Stations of the Cross and the Last Words of Christ, and the solemnness of it all. The quietness and the peace of Good Friday really moves me to be ready for the Alleluia of Easter Sunday! Happy Easter Y’all! See you this summer!
Regina
(770) 667-9337 www.yougottahaveart-studio.com 4 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
contents April/May PUBLISHER EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Regina Gulick CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Amanda Turano, Melissa Holder David Lee Caudill COLUMNISTS Bill Barkley, Jennifer Ferrell, Polly Balint, Kali Hawlk, Eric Hill, Amy Pazahanick, Michelle Knapp, Suzanne Taylor, Jeff Smalley, Tracy Coles, Brandi Hackett Eileen Wrobleski, Amy Keating COPY EDITOR Claire Barkley ADVERTISING MANAGERS Sarah Mabal Teri Koviac PHOTOGRAPHERS Blenco&Co Photographic Arts Darleen Prem Photography Heather Photographers Eduardo P. Schoen MARKETING CONSULTANT Polly Balint Milton • Alpharetta Magazine is published by Simple Concepts Local Marketing 5503 Union Hill Road, Alpharetta GA 30004 404-606-0797 miltongamagazine@gmail.com miltongamagazine.com FB: facebook.com/miltonmagazine
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SHOP LOCALLY Easter and Mother’s Day Fashion Spring Fashion, Locally, p14 The Ultimate Golf Swing, p34 Cambridge Spring Sports, p12 Restaurants w/ Outdoor Seating, p18 Summer Camp Guide 2014, p8 Veterinary Update, p36 Baseball & Bell Memorial, p24 Natural Cures for Allergies, p48 Taking Care of Our Seniors, p42 Local Music Scene, p26 Restaurant Spotlight, p47 Community News, p22 Faith and Mothers, p54 Real Estate Market Update, p32 Scoop OTP, p38 Quick Tennis Tips from the Pro, p28 Calendar of Events, p49
LEMON DROP SHOP
Like our name change?
5
choosing a summer camp
Choosing a Summer Camp
According to research conducted by the National Center for Summer Learning, which is
based at the Johns Hopkins School of Education in Baltimore, Maryland, summer learning loss accounts for about two-thirds of the difference in the likelihood of a student pursuing a college preparatory path in high school. As these findings indicate, keeping children’s brains challenged throughout the summer is crucial, since the lack of learning that occurs during these months has both short-term and long-term consequences. Keeping a child’s day consistent throughout the summer months keeps the brain focused and helps prevent learning losses during the summer. In addition, this can potentially ease the anxiety that often accompanies transitioning into a new classroom or school come fall. Research has shown that programs that have specific learning goals, use learning and developmental standards and are age-appropriate are ideal in preventing summer learning losses. Tips for Choosing a Summer Program: • Choose a program that is based on each child’s interests and natural curiosity – this allows children the opportunity to direct their own learning. • Ask for credentials, experience and training of the teachers/counselors. • Check the health and safety practices of the program. Make sure you are comfortable that the program will be able to handle your child’s unique needs. • Inquire about the daily schedule of the program. Does the program combine songs, stories, exploration, art, physical activities and learning adventures in a safe, nurturing environment? Ask how much freedom a child has to choose activities. • Ask for references.
Article by Debra Braun, Goddard School - Crabapple
6 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
SUMMER LEARNING This is the summer program for America’s adventurers! If your child wants to take a trip across the United States, and you want to provide a fun learning experience…
Call Us Today! MAY 27 - AUGUST 8 • 6 WEEKS - 8 YEARS
NOW ENROLLING! ALPHARETTA • 678-366-6161 GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2014.
Summer Camps
Pinecrest Academy’s Summer Camps build Virtue, Confidence and Friendship, while teaching new skills in a fun environment. PreK4 through High School View our online brochure and Register today at www.PinecrestAcademy.org
Football • Soccer • Babysitting Boot Camp • Drama Camp • Video Game Maker and Robot Camp • Driver’s Ed • Summertime Fun Camp • Spanish • Basketball • Musical Theatre • LEGO Camp History Camp Clay Camp Craft Camp Band Camp • CSI • Volleyball er • Spanish • Football • Baseball • •Robotics •• Arts and• Crafts •• Volleyball •Camp Socrates • • Karate • Odyssey of the Mind • SportsLeader Training Camp • Engineering Young Scientist • Jr. School Chemist • • Emergency Veterinarian •and more! ketball • Babysitter BootcampTriathlon • Speed and Agility Clinic101 ••Vacation Bible Cooking ip Hop • Drama • Driver’s Ed • Summer Time Fun • Lacrosse •Club Scientifics • Electrical Rocketry/Aeronautics 10130041 • Sportsleader Triathlon 955Engineering Peachtree• Parkway, Cumming, GA • 770-888-4477 • pinecrestacademy.org 7
choosing a summer camp
SUMMER CgAu iM P de
It’s that time of year when parents begin to plan for the children being home in the summer. Milton and the surrounding area offers a plethora of amazing camps and summer programs to choose from whether you need care for your child all day because of work, or you simply need to plan a couple of weeks of fun.
CAMP2COMMUNITY 13450 Cogburn Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30004 • www. camp2community.com • A Unique Opportunity for Students with disabilities, Camp2Community is designed to get young students with disabilities to experiment with different roles in their community, homes and schools. We will be exploring new hobbies, building community connections and preparing for their transition into young adulthood. Campers will participate in motivational activities and games specially designed to meet their specific needs; building a scaffold for future learning in core deficit areas and allowing for greater successes in their classrooms, homes and community. See their ad on p10 CHUKKAR FARM “ACTIVITIES ABOUND” Summer Camp • 1140 Liberty Grove Road Alpharetta, GA. 30004 • 770-820-6529 • www.activitiesaboundsummercamp.com • On a 170 acre farm with rolling hills, a large hardwood forest, and a lake to play, create, and to experi-ence the country life as good as it gets just minutes from home. Campers will happily spend the day participating in a variety of sports, art, riding, hiking, fishing, team building, and more. See their ad on p11 GODDARD SCHOOL - Alpharetta 12665 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30004 • 678366-6161 • www.goddardschool.com/atlanta/alpharetta-crabapple-road-GA The Summer Program at The Goddard School® provides a fun learning experience for infants to third-graders. Join us May 27th – August 8th for a trip around the United States. From a New York ‘state of mind’ to an Alaskan adventure, children will learn to shout Hooray for the USA! See their ad on p7
PINECREST ACADEMY- Summer Camps 955 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041 • www. pinecrestacademy.org • Pinecrest Academy Summer Camps build Virtue, Confidence and Friendship, while teaching new skills in a fun environment. PreK4 through High School. View their online brochure. Football, Soccer, Drama, Video Game Maker, Root, Driver’s Ed, Spanish, Basketball, History, Clay, and many more camps to choose among! See their ad on p7 YOU GOTTA HAVE ART Various Convenient Locations throughout North Fulton • www.yougottahaveart-studio.com • 770-6679337 • Weekly Youth Art Camps & Drama Camps and Teen Art Camp during the summer at various schools in North Fulton. Join the fun for one week or more. They will be drawing, painting, exploring during the day, hip hop dancing, cartooning and more. Of course there will be lots of laughing and smiling and just having fun. Their camp is taught by all professional artists. For locations, cost and registration visit their web site. See their ad on p4 FOREFRONT ARTS: PERFORMANCE CAMPS www.forefrontarts.com/camp, 770-864-3316, info@ forefrontarts.com • Rising 1st grade – Age 14. Boost confidence, develop public speaking skills, make new friends, and shine onstage! Their camps feature acting, improv, creative play, singing, dancing, designing, and more. Their camp instructors are professional actors. One-week sessions. Two Camp Productions: “How I Became a Pirate” and “Yellow Brick Road: musicals from the Land of Oz.” Campers will experience the entire production rehearsal process: auditions to find the perfect role for each student, blocking rehearsals, character development, memorizing lines, music and
8 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Coupon Code MILTONMAG
to save $10 for new campers only, not combined with other offers, exp. May 1, 2014
Boost Confidence Develop Public Speaking Skills Make New Friends Shine Onstage
SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS
Our summer camps are hosted by professional actors and feature acting, improv, creative play, singing, dancing, designing, and more. Each week of camp culminates in a public performance.
20+ Summer Camps • 10 Convenient Locations One Week Sessions • Ages 3-14 June • July • August
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Creative Dramatics Camps, Pre3-K
Our smallest performers enjoy an exciting half-day camp filled with theatre games, singing, dancing, costumes and props!
Performance Camps, Rising 1st grade - Age 14
heatherphotographers.com
Older campers experience the entire production rehearsal process, auditions, character development, memorization, music and dance!
w w w. fo re f ro n t a r t s . c o m / C a m p • 7 7 0 - 8 6 4 - 3 3 1 6 dance rehearsals, and finally, performing the show for an audience of family and friends! Use code MILTONMAG when you register and receive a $10 off discount for any NEW campers. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Valid through May 1, 2014. See their ad on p9 FORTITUDE FARM CAMP 13835 Hopewell Road, Milton, GA 30004, www. facebook.com/fortitudefarms • Summer camp at Fortitude Farm is a fun environment for your child to learn how to interact with and ride horses! At our camp your child will ride daily, we teach beginners and kids with prior experience how to safely interact with horses, properly tack-up and prepare a horse for riding, everyday horse care, hours of interactive riding per day, team-building exercises, arts & crafts (creative learning about horses, and horse games (on and off the horse). Contact Abbey Holder for more information. AM-Holder1239@aol.com. See their ad on p11
MILTONMAG when you register and receive a $10 off discount for any NEW campers. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Valid through May 1, 2014. See their ad on p9 CHICKEN SCRATCH CREATIVE WRITING with Kerry Burke at The Art Barn, www.theartbarn.com 678-3190286 • A Barnyard Inspired Creative Writing Camp for ages: 8-12, 9:30am-3:00pm, $345/week Campers will flap their wings and get “crowing” with daily activities that include two creative writing sessions: one poetry and one narrative, an animal assisted team building activity, and an art project. Kerry Burke, Reinhardt University English instructor & Etowah Valley Writers’ Institute cofounder. TalkToFarmerSue@ TheArtBarn.com CAMP JOYFUL SOULS (13-22 year olds) at Hopewell Middle School; This small, specialized camp for special needs children is limited to just 25 participants a week and includes arts and crafts, games, special guests, Special Pops Tennis and swimming once a week. Guardians may register for all seven weeks or a week at a time. $125 for Milton and Alpharetta residents and $187.50 for non-residents per week. June 2 - July 25 (no camp week of July 4) www.cityofmiltonga.us Tom Gilliam, 678-242-2519 or tom.gilliam@cityofmiltonga. us
FOREFRONT ARTS: CREATIVE DRAMATICS CAMPS • www.forefrontarts.com/camp, 770-864-3316, info@ forefrontarts.com• Boost confidence, develop public speaking skills, make new friends, and shine onstage! Their camps feature acting, improv, creative play, singing, dancing, designing, and more. Their camp instructors are professional actors. Ages Pre-3-K. Their smallest performers can take part in an exciting YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP (5-12 year olds) at half-day camp. One-week sessions. Each day they’ll do Hopewell Middle School; Campers may select between warm-ups, play theatre games, make up stories, sing two specialties: Triple Play includes arts and crafts, and dance to music, create costumes and props for the science and group sports; Sports Skill Clinic offers a show, and practice for their big performance! Use code 9
Summer Camp Fun for Students with Disabilities • life skills • social skills • vocational skills • summer camp fun
sponsored by North Metro Miracle League
Students with disabilities explore new hobbies, build community connections, and prepare for transitions into young adulthood.
www.camp2community.com • camp2community@gmail.com • 13450 Cogburn Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30004 different sport each week. Tennis, basketball, soccer and flag football will each be offered twice during the summer. All campers participate in nature and outdoor education, group games and a weekly open swim at the Ed Isakson/Alpharetta Family YMCA. The Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are reinforced throughout the camp program. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free, supervised pre- and post-camp care is available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Campers will bring a lunch and two snacks with them each day. Cost for Milton residents is $170 per week and $255 per week for non-residents. June 2 - July 25 (no camp week of July 4) www.ymcaregistration.com HALFTIME SPORTS HOOPS BASKETBALL CAMP (5-14 year olds) at Northwestern Middle School; City of Milton in partnership with Halftime Sports is proud to present the 13th Annual Hoops City Basketball Camp series. We are committed to helping campers improve their individual basketball skills in all areas of the game. Camps focus on elevating skill, creating an environment of encouragement & success, fun, and confidence.: 1,000 Shot Club Camp: June 16 – 20; It’s Just FUNdamentals Camp: June 30 – July 3; Allen Iverson Camp Crossover: July 7-11; Drills & Skills Camp: July 14-18. Camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Evening camps from 5-8 p.m. are available as well. Cost for youth camps is $199. There are discounts for multiple weeks and multiple athletes. June 16 - July 18. www.halftimesports.net, 770-751-6674 NORTH GA REC LACROSSE CAMP (6-14 year olds) at Northwestern Middle School; Campers will receive instruction from local Lacrosse Coaches Brandon Allen and Matthew Snyder. The camp is designed to help campers learn and develop various lacrosse skills and technique through fun drills and games. Directed by TJ Dixon. Cost for Milton residents is $150 per week and $225 per week for non-residents. June 23-27 www.northgeorgiarec.com; 678-297-2662 or info@ northgeorgiarec.com
through our coaching mix of maximum participation, progressive practices and small-sided games. Camps also focus on game-related techniques and tactical development. Directed by British Soccer. Cost for Milton residents is $175 per week and $262.50 per week for non-residents. July 7-11, July 21-25 www.northgeorgiarec.com; 678-297-2662 or info@northgeorgiarec. com THE LITTLE GYM OF ALPHARETTA - Put on your super cape...it’s time for an adventre! Their all-new Super Kids’ Quest summer Camp is full of exciting, creatie missions where kids will exercise their muscles, imaginations and cooperation skills to complete a different Quest each day. Plus, flexible scheduling options allow parents to sign their cildren up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time! www. thelittlegym.com/alpharettaga; 404-600-4894. See ad on p17 NORTH GA REC TENNIS CAMP (4-14 year olds) at Northwestern Middle School; Come join us for a ton of fun in the Summer sun! Learn new tennis skills, work hard, and make new friends. We have classes available for all ages and abilities. Camp activities include: tennis drills, team building activities, and games. Campers will enjoy plenty of cool drinks and breaks in the shade. T-shirts will be given to all participants. Please bring a light lunch. Directed by Tennis Academy of the South. Cost for Milton residents is $150 per week and $225 per week for non-residents. June 2 - July 25 (no camp week of July 4) www.northgeorgiarec.com; 678-297-2662 or info@ northgeorgiarec.com SPERBER MUSIC CAMPS (3-10 year olds) at Birmingham Falls Elementary; Mini Musicians camp (3-5 year olds) is themed “Ocean Adventure.” Join us for a week of games and songs about the sea. Music and Movement camp (6-10 year olds) is themed “Playground Fun.” Join us for a week of songs, instruments, moving, rhymes and games centered around playground fun. $135 before March 31, $150 after June 3-6 (3-5), June 9-13 (6-10); www.sperbermusic.com; Karen Cornell, 678-223-3653 or info@sperbermusic.com
NORTH GA REC SOCCER CAMP (5-12 year olds) at Northwestern Middle; All soccer campers will receive a summer camp T-shirt and soccer ball. Campers will gain technical and tactical instruction in all areas of the game. Emphasis is placed upon individual skill development and fundamental tactical awareness 10 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Experience Summer
170 Acre Local Farm • horseback riding • hiking and fishing • arts and crafts • team-building • various sports
w w w. a c t i v i t i e s a b o u n d s u m m e r c a m p. c o m
chukkar farm summer camp Located in East Cherokee • 1140 Liberty Grove Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30004 • 770-820-6529
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F O R T I T U D E FA R M S u m m e r C a m p Campers Will Learn:
•How to safely interact with horses. •How to properly tack-up and prepare a horse for riding. •Everyday horse care. •Hours of interactive riding per day. •If your child already has existing riding skills, then these lessons will build off of what they already have learned. •Team building exercises. •Arts & crafts (creative learning about horses). •Horse games (on and off of the horse). 11 Fortitude Farm • 13835 Hopewell Road, Milton GA 30004 • w ww.facebook.com/fortitudefarm • AMHolder1239@aol.com
CAMBRIDGE Spring Sports
Eduardo P. Schoen
Cambridge sports photos courtesy of Eduardo P. Schoen of Schoen Photos. View more at northfultonsports.com and schoenphotos.com
12 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Or, call about our Milton HANDYMAN SERVICE $60/hr + materials, 1.5 hour minimum
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5503 Union Hill Road, Alpharetta GA 30004 • 404-606-0796
13
spring fashion
Easter and Mother’s Day Fashions LOCALLY By Amanda Turano
heatherphotographers.com
SHOP
The sun is smiling, birds are chirping, flowers are
popping and flip flops are clopping. The world is shouting, “Spring is here”! The beautiful days of springtime in the south bring two very heralded holidays of the year, Easter and Mother’s Day. We celebrate these special days with family, friends, food and let’s not forget, FASHION of course! These locally owned and operated boutiques offer a sumptuous array of springtime holiday fashions and gifts, each in their own unique atmosphere at amazing prices. With so many swoon worthy fashion choices at your doorstep, there is no need to look any further!
The Twisted Thread is an upscale resale boutique with designer clothing at resale prices in the heart of Crabapple. This unique shopping experience with brand names from Prada & Gucci to Anthropologie & Free People offers high fashion at affordable prices. You will find a little bit of everything you are looking for, from everyday casual wear, to formal and beaded gowns, to Louis Vuitton hand bags, as well as shoes and accessories to complete any outfit. Treat yourself to name brands of the rich and famous and walk away with a couture ensemble for your spring celebration. New gift items can also be found in the jewelry case crafted by local artisans. Shop in the store at 12660 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta, GA. Find more information online at http://www.thetwistedthread.com or on Facebook at The Twisted Thread. Store hours are Monday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 11am-5pm. Closed on Sundays. Lemon Drop Shop
The Lemon Drop Shop is a lifestyle boutique located
14 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
shanghai acupuncture clinic Dr. Yushen Qiao has been in practice since 1982. He is a licensed acupuncturist in Georgia and diplomate of NCCAOM in both acupuncture and Chinese herbology. Acupuncture is a total natural therapy for health care. Various illnesses can be treated, such as painful conditions, diseases of the digestive system, diseases of the motor system, neurotic and mental diseases and menopause syndrome, etc. 284 South Main Street, Suite 1200 • Alpharetta, GA 30009 • acupuncture-northfulton.com • 678-374-1963
in historic downtown Alpharetta overlooking Fountain Square. They are a full service boutique with complete lines of clothing, shoes, hats, scarves, jewelry and accessories as well as home fashions. Did I mention hats? These are seriously the cutest hats I have ever seen featured by a local artisan! Festive springtime holiday wear comes in daily with many colorful and print tops and dresses. The items are versatile so you can dress them up or down depending on your plans. Finish off your outfit with one of a kind jewelry in just the right color to make a fashion statement. Home décor includes vases, candles, custom soaps and lotions, all perfect gifts for Mother’s Day. Shop in the store at 20 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, GA or online at http:// www.lemondropshop.net/Default.asp . Find the shop on Facebook at Lemon Drop Shop. Store hours are Monday-Saturday 11am-4pm. Closed on Sundays.
Couture Consigner is an upscale consignment shop offering gently used women’s clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry. The shop celebrates 10 years of business in Alpharetta with many trusted consignors, as well as new ones everyday. Check out their new location filled with items to make your Easter or Mother’s Day fun and fashionable. All of the brand names that you love like Michael Kors, Tory Birch, Chanel and Ralph Lauren are available at highly discounted prices. The store has colorful and fun print and embellished dresses for spring and summer. Don’t leave the store without discovering the shoes, jewels and handbag to match your new outfit! Visit the store often as items change daily! Shop in the store at 488 N. Main Street, Suite 105, Alpharetta, GA. Find more information online at http://www.thecoutureconsigner.
Lemon Drop Shop
15
Couture Consigner
com or on Facebook at The Couture Consigner. Store hours are Monday-Saturday 11-6. Closed on Sundays.
Henry & Pearl in Crabapple is a new locally owned clothing boutique. Named after their beloved dogs, the shop offers well-known clothing brands for men and women. If your Easter or Mother’s Day fashion consists of long flowy skirts or capris pants with a preppy print top, Henry & Pearl is the store for you! Kick back and relax at your spring BBQ in the super popular spirit jerseys, Vineyard Vines shirt or any of the other locally branded specialty T’s that they carry. If you don’t know what a spirit jersey is or do not have one yet, go quickly because they sell out fast! Special items for mom’s special day or hostess gifts for Easter can be found in the way of decorative tumblers, scented candles, notecards, and scarves. Shop in the store at 12660 Crabapple Rd, Suite 120, Milton, GA. More information can be found online at http://www.henryandpearl.com or on Facebook at Henry & Pearl. Store hours are Monday-Saturday 11am-6pm. Closed on Sundays. The Drake Closet began as a way to raise awareness and fundraise for the The Drake House, a short-term crisis-housing center for mothers and children in North Fulton County. The original location is in Historic Roswell, while their brand new location just opened in downtown Alpharetta on Food Truck Alley. All of the clothing they sell has
Spring
into
Art Lessons K-12 only $79 a month (under $20 a lesson)
$30
O F F
Pay No Enrollment Fee new students only / use code: sta14 expires June 31st, 2014
Art lessons at Othels Art Gallery & School of Art are structured lessons that are taught by certified, professional and experienced art teachers in a fun, exciting and relaxed environment.
ALL SUPPLIES, UTENSILS AND MATERIALS PROVIDED 11775 Northfall Lane (S. Main St.), Alpharetta, GA 30009
404-955-5521
othelsart.com
16 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
been generously donated by the public and is available for purchase. Popular brands like Talbots, Abercrombie, Loft and Chico’s are available at tremendous savings. Along with the clothing, new jewelry and gift items are available for purchase with all of the proceeds going to The Drake House. Shop in the store at 26 Old Roswell Street, Alpharetta, GA. More information can be found online at http://www.thedrakehouse.org/tdh/the-drake-closet or on Facebook at The Drake House – Roswell. Store hours are Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. Amanda is a happily married Canton mother of two energetic and busy teens and one spoiled yellow lab. She is a lover of words and can usually be found with her nose in a book, trail running or blogging. 17
restaurants
SEVEN
By David Lee Caudill
Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
It’s that perfect time of year when the winter doldrums begin to subside and the soothing spring weather is waiting to be embraced. There’s no better way to enjoy spring’s arrival than dining outdoors at one of Milton’s fine restaurants. Below are a few of the MANY Milton restaurants ready for spring.
La Casa Italian Grill, lo-
cated on Old Roswell Street in downtown Alpharetta, features one of the more beautiful outdoor patios in the area. The building is a renovated historic house, allowing for a comfortable atmosphere to be combined with an authentic Italian cuisine. It’s a place where you can truly feel at home. The two-deck outdoor patio can be covered and heated in parts for yearround dining, and with its capacity for 50-60 people, it can accommodate anything from a wedding party to a business meeting or even a romantic setting. La Casa’s fine dishes include antipasti starters, numerous types of fresh salads, and all the homemade pastas that make Italian dining such an amazing experience. The wait staff is always willing to offer suggestions for wine pairings that will go well with the dish you’ve chosen. Owner Pasquale Cardamuro has made his restaurant his life’s passion, and his attention to detail is a warm sense of pride for him and is easily noticed by those who visit. La Casa meets all of the outdoor dining experiences one could possibly need.
Salt Factory Pub is a newly opened restaurant located on South Main Street in Alpharetta.
This English-style pub has an expansive area for outdoor dining complete with a bocce court for entertainment. Salt Factory is very conscious of their product, making every attempt to use local organic ingredients to create their artistic versions of comfort foods and elegant American fare. The different styles of oysters are all very enjoyable, and with everything from salmon tartare to shepherd’s pie and pizzas, there is truly something for everyone. They have a vast beer and wine selection, and there is a separate menu for all their bourbon and scotch varieties. On the patio, there is more than enough room for larger parties while maintaining a private and relaxed feel. The complimentary valet parking is also a nice bonus. With the friendly wait staff and the beautiful atmosphere, Salt Factory Pub is a must try for those nights where you simply must be outside.
The Union is a quaint and eclectic restaurant on Providence Road in Milton. Their outdoor
seating is arranged to cater to those looking for relaxed dining for smaller parties. At The Union, the variety of dishes and the quality of the food takes center stage. Appetizers include black bean
18 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Darleen Prem Photography
quinoa cake, fried calamari, ahi and salmon, and the salads are always fresh and come with many combinations. There are numerous possibilities with the main course, such as shrimp and grits, chicken parmesan, schnitzel or stirfry. The Union also has satisfying sandwiches such as the salmon BLT, the club sandwich, and the very appropriately named ‘a good burger.’ They also have various types of pizzas and a kids menu with options under $5. There just seems to be such peacefulness to the outdoor area of The Union, and it should be a main option when considering a date night dinner this spring.
Tilted Kilt, the Celtic pub with a cheerful atmosphere located on Windward Parkway, is the place to go for all the big sporting events that will take place this spring. Baseball and basketball games, as well as many other sporting events, are sure to be found on one of the numerous televisions where all can easily be seen. The outdoor area is a great place to socialize and meet new people, all while enjoying the Kilt’s classic pub fare and a featured beer of the month. Try any of the numerous wings on the menu, such as the sweet and spicy made with a Guinness BBQ sauce, garlic parmesan, or blackened. There are also many options for salads or wraps for those who are seeking a lighter meal while still enjoying the atmosphere. There’s no question that The Tilted Kilt was designed for those looking to have a good time amongst friends and neighbors, and if this is what you seek, there’s no better place to be.
CANS Taqueria is located in Crabapple/Milton. Their authentic Mexico City style cuisine is served in a comfortable, relaxed and fun setting. Their ambiance and highly rated specialty cocktails make CANS a favorite among many Milton dining enthusiasts. Every one of their signature dishes are prepared from scratch. They use only the freshest, finest ingredients available. They serve the best margaritas in town, made from one of the 150+ tequilas they have on hand. CANS offers a spacious and comfortable dining room or you can also enjoy outdoor seating on their climate controlled, enclosed patio. Great food served in a great atmosphere is just the beginning. Their staff is obsessed with providing you with unsurpassed service. You’ll find their 19
La Casa AUTHENTIC ITALIAN GRILL
Alpharetta’s “BEST Italian Restaurant”
Located in a Quaint Historic Home
Corporate and Social Catering Reservations Accepted • Extensive Wine List, “Wine Dinners,” Full Bar • Private Intimate Dining Rooms • Heated Patio, Voted “Best Patio” by Patch.com • Voted 2012, 2013 and 2014 Open Table’s “Diners’ Choice,” and “Neighborhood Gem” One Block from the square and Main Street, between Milton Ave and Old Milton Pkwy 37 Old Roswell Street • Downtown Alpharetta • 770-609-6311 • www.lacasaitaliangrill.com servers to be friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing you with the very best service possible.
Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails is also located in Cabapple/Milton. Milton’s Acre is perfect
for chef ’s tables, wine tastings, birthdays, and corporate events. The garden has recently expanded to one full acre and features fresh heirloom vegetables and herbs used nightly in the kitchen. Events in the garden are unique and your ideas can be discussed with the events coordinator on a case by case basis. miltonscuisine.com
Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub in Crabapple is a local favorite.
You’d think they’d need months to recover from their humongous Saint Paddy’s Day party that lasted for three days and extended into Monday. The patio at Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub is spacious with seating for up to 60 people. The patio is constructed of brick and outfitted with handmade Brazilian Tigerwood furniture. It is covered by a louvered roof which opens to allow the sun to shine in or closes to provide cover from the rain. They offer full service from our bar and kitchen on the patio day and night. It is available to use for large parties, birthday gatherings and rehearsal dinners if you have the need for a private space with great food and service with no rental fee into the streets. oldeblinddog.com Don’t let spring arrive unnoticed. Try one of these outstanding locations for a tremendous outdoor dining experience. DLC
David Lee Caudill resides in Canton, Ga., with his wife and children. He is a poet and aspiring novelist and enjoys music, reading, and sports of all kinds. David may be contacted at caudill_david19@yahoo.com. 20 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
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good news milton
Easter Hop and Egg Hunt April 13 • brunch & easter bunny • milton’s cuisine
CRABAPPLE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Photos courtesy of Ashley Blencoe of Blencoe&Co. Photographic Arts www.blencoeandco.com • Blencoe&Co. is one of the sponsors of this year’s event and will be on site snapping family photos with the Easter Bunny.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Crabapple Community Association
The Crabapple Community Association exists to improve, protect and enhance the overall quality of life in Crabapple by sponsoring community events, establishing beautification projects, doing charitable works locally, and connecting local residents with one another. They put on various community events throughout the year, including Crabapplefest, Christmas in Crabapple and Easter Hope and
Egg Hunt. crabapplecommunityassociation.org
Better Together is a volunteer organization of Milton residents looking for unique and fun ways to connect with neighbors. If you would like more information on Better Together or any of its activities, please visit the group’s Facebook page or contact Boston at 678-242-2512 or wayne.boston@cityofmiltonga.us. Businesses in Milton are encouraged to
22 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
contact Boston if they would be willing to host an event in order to introduce their particular product or service to our residents. Better Together will then work with the business to plan an event that will be educational, productive and enjoyable to all.
Blencoe&Co. Photographic Arts
Why Milton? Incorporated on Dec. 1, 2006, the City of Milton has been recognized for having the highest quality of life in the state of Georgia and ninth-highest in the southern United States by the Business Journals’ “On Numbers” survey. It is a distinctive community that embraces small-town life and heritage while preserving and enhancing the city’s rural character. The City of Milton will provide opportunity and value in a responsive and responsible environment through active partnerships with the community and its stakeholders. For more information, visit www.cityofmiltonga.us, or call 678-242-2500. Preserve Rural Milton began when Dr
Laura Rencher, local farm owner and business woman, recognized her own and other’s sadness to the seemlingly rapid loss of the woodlands that were being clear cut for new subdivision development. She formed a Facebook group to brainstorm ideas to preserve Milton’s rural heritage and land. Abbe Laboda, a long-time resident, business owner and member of the Milton Historic Preservation Commission, immediately joined the effort. They formed a strategic planning group to develop the organizational goals, structure, and research. This group includes: Jim Bell, owner of Milton Fields Green Cemetery, Joe Lampl, Producer and Host of Growing a Greener World, Travis Allen, Chair of Milton Historic Preservation Commission and Jack Lindon, CoChair of Milton Grows Green. It is their goal that this group would be the beginning of establishing a large visible presence of people actively investing in the future of Milton and in local land conswervation. preserveruralmilton.org
Milton Business Alliance • The mission
of the Milton Business Alliance is to promote and maintain a positive environment in which both new and existing Milton businesses can thrive. They have three principle objectives: 1. To promote and advane the economic welfare of business in the City of Milton. 2. To encourage the retention and growth of existing businesses while giving all proper assistance to new firms seeking to locate to Milton
3. To provide opportunities for businesses to strengthen their positions in the community through networking and marketing opportunities. MBA meets monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month at member business locations and feature a variety of speakers on topics of intrest to the local business community. miltonbusinessalliance.com
Alpharetta CVB does a fantastic job of keeping our community informed on what’s happening, where to shop, dine, stay. This is an excellent tool for visitor’s of course; but we find it a great resource for residents as well! Visit their web site awesomealpharetta.com and see for yourself. City of Alpharetta • alpharetta.ga.us • Visit
their web site for events, parks and recreation info, directions to facilities and information on the upcoming Alpharetta Arts Streetfest on April 26! The complete music and arts line up is there.
City of Milton • cityofmiltonga.us • They do a phenomenal job keeping the community up to date on daily happenings in Milton. Their communicaitons manager Jason Wright appears to have a terrific handle on our great community. From special events to accolades for residents, be sure to sign up for the updates to stay abreast of what’s happening right down the street.
23
play
Take Me Out to the Ballgame! By Melissa Holder
Photo by Rebecca Blizzard, Hopewell Hurricanes 10U, 2012 team
Batter up! Those two words signal an unofficial start to spring. This time of year you can
find kids at baseball fields throughout the area swinging for the fences, learning the basics, and sometimes just watching the ants in the outfield.
In Milton there are two general levels of ball available to players: recreation and travel. Traditional recreation leagues generally begin with t-ball, which typically starts at age three, and continues to the 11-12 year old division. These leagues are primarily geared for instruction – but don’t think for a minute that means it’s not competitive! With pre-season practices and then roughly 10-12 games a season, followed by a post season tournament, most players and coaches are in to win. During the summer, many leagues then choose all-star teams from their recreation teams for each age group (excluding t-ball). These summer teams compete against teams throughout the area and hope to qualify for state and even national tournaments. Travel baseball is for the more serious player and for the family willing to dedicate the additional time to participate. Either by invitation or tryout, these teams play together almost year-round. Travel programs begin as early as age seven. Many programs partner with local parks and pay to use the facility. Other programs have in-house travel teams. Participants are expected to be active with the team throughout the year. A typical schedule might include practice in the fall, with maybe one tournament, and then a heavy tournament schedule – up to three weekends a month – in the spring. Last year, the City of Milton purchased 13+ acres adjacent to Bell Memorial Park, with the intention of doubling the size of the existing park. This dream is becoming a reality this summer as bulldozers will make their way through the park to make it better for all of us. Fortunately, the Spring 2014 baseball season is being played at Bell Memorial park as it is, The plan for redevelopment of Bell Memorial Park calls for the complete reconfiguration of the park, including removal of all of the existing facilities. The park will grow in size from 18 to 32 acres. “We want this to be the premier park 24 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Raisin’s Ranch Pony Parties
770-617-1521 www.raisinsranch.com Photo by Zebra Gallerie of the city,” said Jim Cregge, the parks and recreation director for the city of Milton. On Memorial Day, May 26, when the recreation season is finished, the park will close for about 12 months while significant improvements take place. Two multi-purpose rectangular fields will be built to accommodate football, lacrosse and soccer. Additions will include a large pavilion that will house concession stands, bathrooms and a breezeway to hide from rain. In addition, the park will have two new playgrounds and walking trails, accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The baseball season will continue for the summer and fall of 2014 and spring of 2015 at another park location. Jim Cregge, who started volunteering in the city 19 years ago with a program that teaches children to become umpires, said he had this vision for Bell Memorial for a long time and is very excited to see these improvements. We can hear it in his voice. And the one thing he was clear to make sure we understood-- when we spoke with him about this article-- was, “This is not about me. It’s about the kids. Don’t make this about me.” Ok, Jim it’s not about you. But we sure do appreciate your enthusiasm and dedication to the Parks and Rec program in Milton--- refreshing to have such a happy advocate for our kids. MH
The Master Plan for Bell Memorial Park Courtesy of City of Milton
25
local music scene in milton•alpharet ta Photo shows concert at Matilda’s Cottage, Music Under the Pines concert series which runs every Saturday Night May through July, 8:30 pm Bring your own food and drinks, kids under 16 free with parents... Dogs on a leash welcome....
HOUSE CONCERTS By Brian Johnson
Music and musicians have always played a
role in building and defining our culture. This is especially true in the Appalachian and Southern regions of the United States, where many rural southern families in the 1800s held gatherings that revolved around music as a regular part of their recreation. These gatherings, full of local food, musical festivity, and folklore, would often involve all generations of multiple nearby families, with people sharing stories from their ancestral roots as well as chronicling their immigrant and farm-based experiences through songs and storytelling.
During the Civil War and later, the Great Depression, families used these communal gatherings to interpret (and in some cases, forget) about the harsh times they lived in. Traveling musicians, looking for a way to earn a living from their art, would also perform at these communal events. The gatherings were true expressions of Americana and the “do-it-yourself ” ethos. The recent surge in popularity of the Amercana music genre and the ubiquity of modern communications technology have led to a resurgence in this traditional form of social and cultural gathering that we now call the house concert. The modern house concert is inevitably described as an intimate affair, where a host invites 25 – 50 friends and neighbors to their home for the show. Rather than merely providing background music, musicians perform a full pre-planned set of songs to an attentive audience gathered in a living room or backyard
patio. Hosts typically charge a small admission fee to cover the artist’s appearance. Corey Coleman, from the popular Marietta-based acoustic duo Kate and Corey, says, “House concerts have become an important part of our live performance portfolio. The close and casual quarters allow us to relate to people and tell the stories behind our music in a more personable way. We almost always get more dedicated fans willing to follow us and help support us from a house concert gig than we do from a show in a traditional live music venue.” If you’d like more information about the historical origins of house concerts, you should read "The Role of House Concerts In Modern American Culture” by Bianca Garza and Becca Cragin. You can also check out a guide to hosting house concerts on Kate and Corey’s website, www. katenandcorey.com. Hopefully, you will decide to host a house concert in the near future. It’s a chance for you to bring your own unique and modern “North Fulton touch” to a truly American tradition. Brian Johnson is the owner of music lessons business North Fulton School of Music and Lucky Dog Studios. He is also the Executive Producer for independent record label Highway 9 Records, and a benefactor of many local music projects. He and his family live in Milton, Georgia. northfultonschoolofmusic.com
26 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Jacqueline Mogan
PERSONAL ASSISTANT
• personal shopping • errands (ie. groceries, dry cleaners, etc.)
By Yawn Farris
• pet care • house-sitting • childcare • elder care and much more ...
BOOK REVIEW LOCAL BOOKS We Made It! On The Farm During The Depression In today’s world of 500 TV channels, smartphones, and facebook, it is easy to forget that the world our grandparents (or great-grandparents) lived in was very different. The Great Depression affected every area of our country. We have all seen the pictures of the dust bowl and the Hoovertowns.
MISSION POSSIBLE
Hand me your list ... It won’t get missed! imthego2girl@yahoo.com 404.268.3225 w w www.eyeonessentials.com w. m i s s i o n p o s s i b l e . c o
This book gives us a glimpse into the life of a southern farm Mention the word “Milton” • 10% off for First-time Customers family during the Great Depression. We share their joys and struggles as they work to make the most out of sometimes very little. Author Elree Worley tells stories of growing up in the depression era that are informative and humorous at the same time. It covers a variety of subjects such as homemade toys, square dancing, whittling, raising chickens, wash day and home Doctor visits. You will want to read this book in one sitting, and then reread some chapters over and over! I would recommend it as “required” reading for young and not so young alike. Published by Yawn’s Publishing in Canton, Georgia, the book is available from Yawn’s Books & More (yawnsbooks.com), Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com. $19.95 us. ISBN: 978-0-9818673-7-3
Book Review by Farris Yawn, Owner Yawn’s Publishing, downtown Canton; 198 North Street, www.yawnsbooks.com 27
milton•alpharetta tennis
QUICK TIPS FROM THE PRO By Amy Pazahanick
Amy Pazahanick is Director of Tennis at White Columns Club.
The weather is finally starting to get beautiful and many tennis players in Atlanta are stepping back onto the tennis courts. With ALTA matches in full swing, here are some solutions to some common problems that can help boost your game this season. How do I prevent myself from getting too nervous when I play? How can I perform better under pressure? Have you ever been up 5-2, 5-3 and suddenly find yourself tied at 5-5 or losing the set 7-5? If you have been playing tennis for a couple seasons or more, the answer to almost any player is, yes! Let’s examine why. What happens when you are down? Easy, you relax. There is nothing for you to lose, heck, you are almost out of the match already, so you lighten up and relax. All the sudden, your game is much better and your shots are working. What happens when you are leading a match, is often times, the opposite. Instead of lightening up, you tighten up. Your mind becomes focused on the result, winning or losing, and now you are feeling a new sense of pressure, even though rationally, you are up by a big margin. The key is to train your mind to focus on the present moment and never the outcome, winning or losing. When you focus your mind in the present moment, your body will relax, and when you relax you can overcome your nerves and play at your best in the midst of a pressure filled match. What is the best way to play doubles: both up? One up and one back? Or both back? The answer is all three. You have to find the right solution to each new “problem”. Your problem to figure out, is your opponents! Just as all math equations do not have the same solutions, nor do all of your tennis matches. Your solution is dependent on the problem that you are trying to solve! Use all three formations at varying times! What are some quick, easy tips I can use in my matches? Start your matches focusing on being really consistent; and then see if your opponents will “beat themselves.” Focus on placement over power. Use short drop volleys and slices. Most people are not as good at moving up and back as they are laterally across the court When in doubt, LOB! Don’t worry about your competition. Let them worry about you! Focus on your own game.
28 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
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real estate finance
The Importance of Credit Reports By Jeff Smalley
Credit
bureaus are the for profit companies that gather information and sell reports about a person’s credit history. Among many other types of businesses, mortgage companies use these reports to supplement loan applications. The reports are a key factor in a lenders decision making process. There are different types of reports. The “three repository in-file report” is very comprehensive and the one most commonly used by mortgage lenders. The reports contain information in five main categories: 1) Personal Information 2) Monthly Account Activity 3) Derogatory Account Activity 4) Public Records Information and 5) Inquiries. Creditors report individuals monthly account activity to one, two or all three of the credit repositories. The three are Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Each of the three use an algorithm that produces a credit score that can range from a low of 300 to a high of 850. The credit scores are a statistically derived measure of the likelihood that an individual will pay their bills on time. The most commonly used scoring system comes from a company called Fair Isaac Corporation and is referred to as a FICO score. The factors that FICO uses in generating scores include: Payment History (35% of score), Account Balances as a percentage of the accounts high credit limit (30% of score), Length of Credit History (15% of score), New Credit Accounts (10% of score), Types of Credit Accounts (10% of score). Under Georgia Law, individuals are entitled to receive two free credit reports from each of the three reposito-
ries each year. The free reports do not contain credit scores. For more detailed information on credit scoring visit www.creditscoring.com. If you want to obtain your FICO score visit www.myfico.com, be advised that various fees may be charged. Scores from each of the three repositories will vary because each of them uses a slightly different algorithm and at any given moment when a report is prepared, the data in your file at one may be different than the data in either of the other two. For these reasons, credit scores are never averaged. Mortgage Lenders underwriting guidelines dictate the use of the middle score of three, or the lowest score of two. Almost all lender’s loan products have minimum credit score requirements and use a person’s score to calculate the interest rate that will be offered for a particular loan transaction. The system is by no means perfect and if errors occur and the reported information is incorrect it is up to you to monitor what’s being reported and get the information corrected. The three repositories have set up one officially authorized website for obtaining the free reports: www.annualcreditreports.com. The Fair Credit Reporting Act governs the entire system, for more information go to www.ftc.gov. Jeff Smalley is VP of Lending at Guaranteed Rate, an avid golfer, animal lover, Ohio State graduate, Canton resident and veteran of the US Air Force. Jeff.Smalley@guaranteedrate.com
30 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
The body is self-healing, when given proper nutrition and care. At Abundant Life Wellness, we work with you to address the underlying cause, not just the symptoms. We offer the following products and services: • Holistic Wellness for Adults & Children • Zyto Bioenergetic Assessment • Detox Packages • Homeopathics and Botanicals • Ionic Footbath • Lymphatic Drainage Therapy •Facial Microcurrent • Advanced Relaxation Therapy Room
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real estate market update
Milton on the Move
By Tracy Coles, Coles & Company, Keller Williams Realty
3110 Manor Bridge Dr. The Manor Golf and CC 2,564790 517 13945 Atlanta National Dr. Atlanta National 1,892,500 292 20 Providence Way None 1,875,000 15 3194 Watsons Bend The Manor Golf and CC 1,360,000 259 13960 Haystack Lane The Hayfield 1,398,350 46 13412 Hipworth Rd Lake Haven 980,000 62 15695 Canterbury Chase Canterbury on the Lake 850000 11 13222 Antler Ridge Evergrace 810,000 31 13467 NE Hipworth Rd Lake Haven 834,691 416 14667 Timber Pt Clearbrooke 775,000 72 575 Glen National Dr Providence at Atlanta Na 769,000 81 12792 Donegal Ln Vickery Crest 750000 159 600 Hickory Flat Rd None 710,000 3 15460 Thorntree Run Tullamore 675,000 124 14392 Club Cir Crooked Creek 637,500 14 Spring is here, and with it comes 560 Hickory Mill Lane Estates of Hickory Mill 563,000 132 the beginning of peak season for 13790 Birmingham Hwy None 637,000 3 real estate sales in Milton and Al15440 N Valley Creek Ln The Preserve at North V 627,505 158 pharetta. Currently, supplies are 430 McKenzie Trl Gates Mill 577,000 98 low and demand is high, so sell500 Hickory Mill Ln Estates of Hickory Mill 563,000 52 ers are getting top dollar for their 2550 Bethany Church Rd None 560,000 7 homes with favorable terms. And 365 Gunston Hall Cir Providence Lake 540,000 91 with foreclosures comprising only 373 Atkinson Dr Milton Place 540,000 91 610 Oakstone Glen Oakstone Glen 528,000 188 1% of the market, traditional sellers 1610 Reddstone Close Reddstone 522,500 3 have a “perfect storm” opportunity. 750 Northwind Ter Edenwilde 535,000 3 Property values have increased so 1716 Heritage Pass T The Highlands 533,900 1 that sellers have more equity in 445 Champions View Dr Champions View 509,000 19 711 McCaus Ln Crabapple Crossing 500,000 6 their homes and there is a pent-up 780 Champions View Dr Champions View 509,000 19 demand of ready, willing and able 895 Onagh Ct Enniskerry 505,000 20 buyers for homes under $700,000. 480 Wilde Greene Dr Edenwilde 509,999 2 This all adds up to a great time to 710 McCaus Ln Crabapple Crossing 500,000 37 115 Champions Club Dr Champions View 475,500 158 sell! In spite of the low inventory, not every home will sell. Price, 925 Canonero Dr Canonero 541,631 38 condition, and marketing all play 1655 Peyton Farm Dr Peyton Farm 493,325 11 a role in getting a home sold. 210 Cheltenham Walk Crooked Creek 475,000 2 653 Dunbrody Dr Crabapple Station 504,789 172 14450 Morning Mt Way Crooked Creek 454,900 123 These 5 simple yet effective spring cleaning tips can pre1280 Mayfield Manor Dr Mayfield Place 440,000 4 pare your home for sale and give 105 Garden Walk Edenwilde 439,800 93 12657 Waterside Dr Waterside 412,000 117 you the edge over other sellers. 12855 Broadwell Rd None 400,000 566 DeClutter – give the illusion of 460 Champions View Dr Champions View 430,680 74 space & allow buyers to envision 155 Brighton Cir The Chelsey 395,000 11 themselves there. Clean your win115 Crabapple Way Bentgrass Farms 392,000 1 185 Corral Ct Saddle Creek 355,000 19 dows & let the sun shine in. Make 14335 Wyndham Farms Dr Wyndham Farms 351,000 36 your Kitchen & Baths white glove 430 North Farms Dr North Farm 331,110 13 clean. Sniff out smells. & say good940 Sablegreen Way Sable Pointe 320,000 11 bye to bad odors. Trim lawn and 270 Saddle Horn Cir Saddle Creek 333,000 9 trees. Make first impressions count! 1065 Arbor Creek Dr Arbor Creek 335,000 3 If you’re considering selling, now is 277 Providence Oaks Providence Oaks 320,000 42 1165 Arbor Creek Dr Arbor Creek 304,000 133 the time to “spring into action” and 950 Pebblestone Ct Spences Field 305,000 180 keep Milton on the move! TC 12335 Crabapple Chase Dr Crabapple Chase 290,000 4 32 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
ONE MEMBERSHIP. THREE OF GEORGIA’S PREMIER CLUBS. Members at three of Georgia’s premier clubs now enjoy the privileges of all. Atlanta National Golf Club, White Columns Country Club and The Manor Golf and Country Club have come together to offer new membership options that provide access to all three courses and amenities that include member-only onsite lodging, junior Olympic-size pools, kid’s pools, fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor tennis facilities and much more.
A Pete Dye Design 770.407.1431 www.atlantanationalgolfclub.com
A Tom Fazio Design 678.893.7520 www.whitecolumnscountryclub.com
A Tom Watson Design 678.366.3886 www.manorgcc.com
Sequoia Golf Announces 3 for 1 Golf course architects Pete Dye, Tom Fazio and Hall-of-Famer Tom Watson have left an indelible mark on the game of golf. Sequoia Golf is honored to present examples of their legendary designs in three unique clubs: Atlanta National Golf Club (Dye), White Columns Golf and Country Club (Fazio), and The Manor Golf and Country Club (Watson). Even more exciting, Sequoia Golf is offering members access to this incredible threesome under one new membership.
quality.“The vision is to elevate the quality and stature of all three clubs,” added Guerra. “We want the clubs to be relevant for the entire family and feel like an extension of each member’s home—a place where they can relax, have fun and be proud to entertain guests.”
At Atlanta National, members have access to an ideal golfer’s haven on a Pete and P.B. Dye-designed course with many Dye trademark features. In addition, Atlanta National offers an elegant clubhouse with casual and fine dining as well as on-site lodging for memMembership now means multi-club access to bers and guests at its rustic-styled lodge. White a spectacular golf retreat at Atlanta National Columns members enjoy a Tom Fazio-deand classic country club experiences at White Columns and The Manor—and all within a few signed course that has consistently been among the area’s top golf courses, as well as miles of each other.On top of outstanding golf, excellent swim, tennis and fitness facilities, and members have access to first-class amenities a clubhouse that overlooks the course. Finally, and a wide variety of social programming for members can enjoy Georgia’s only championthe entire family; and all under one membership golf course designed by Tom Watson at ship—that’s an amazing deal.” The Manor, which is also home to indoor and In addition, all three clubs are currently being outdoor swimming pools and tennis courts, upgraded as part of a multi-million-dollar a sports center and spectacular views across capital improvement plan designed to elevate Lake Manor from its European-style clubthe clubs’ offerings to an even higher level of house. 33
golf in MILTON • Alpharetta
THE ULTIMATE GOLF SWING
By Bill Barkley, Master PGA Teaching Pro
I have been playing golf for seventy years, playing well
enough as a junior golfer to earn a four year full scholarship to play on the University of Florida Golf Team. At that time, Florida was the number one golf team in the nation, with players like Doug Sanders, Dave Regan, and Dan Sikes who later played on Ryder Cup teams. I was a scratch player with the ultimate golf swing, playing consistently from tee to green, but lacking the short game finesse on and around the greens that one must have to play the tour. After college, and a tour in the Army, I married, started raising a family of what became eleven children and settled down as a club pro, specializing in teaching. As a teacher I won the coveted award, PGA Master Professional with a Specialty in Teaching. A teacher imparts feel, visualization, and understanding of the swing. Teachers communicate with word pictures, graphics, demonstrations, and training aids. They engage students in the learning process with the aid of video analysis. They make instruction convincing with cause and effect reasoning. Teachers prescribe drills designed to develop swing fitness and facilitate memorization of key movements. They help students discover and learn. Ultimately, a golf swing is not guided by a ‘conscious’ effort, but by a more ‘subconscious’ activity, like walking. Once a judgment is made concerning club selection and what type of shot the situation requires, an advanced golfer begins with a purposeful pre-swing routine, then executes the shot with little thought about mechanics during the actual swing. Over time, a golfer simply reacts to visualization, executing shots automatically, like a third baseman fielding a ground ball. There are several ways to swing a golf club, though I believe that the ultimate golf swing has an inside out path with a counter-clockwise spin on the ball, similar to the way a bowler rolls the ball to the right with a counter-clockwise spin into the side of the head pin. The following describes the execution of the ultimate golf swing: 1. Address the ball with the ball opposite the left heel.
34 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Where to Play?
2. Bend at the waist, creating a 45 degree spine angle. The spine angle should remain constant throughout the swing. 3. The right foot should be wedged inward and there should be no lateral movement in the right knee during the backswing. 4. Rotate the waist clockwise, a one piece movement with the left arm extended. 5. At the peak of the backswing, rotate the left wrist counter-clockwise, shift weight into the left heel, swing the hips forward to the right, and let the arms and hands fall freely on the inside-out path. The ball will spin counter-clockwise from right to left. An inside out path during the downswing is desirable because the path is longer, allowing one to create more club head speed, and spinning a ball from right to left provides a bigger area to spin the ball into, or most of the entire width of the fairway. For example, a straight path down the middle would only allow half the fairway if the ball was spinning right or left. Developing the details requires many hours of concentrated practice to perform the pattern subconsciously and with timing and rhythm. The term rhythm means that the movement occurs sequentially and simultaneously, like a series of spinning concentric circles with a common forward moving axis. The part which spins in the greatest radius, the club head, is the last to catch up. The term rhythm means that the total movement of a swing is smooth, not jerky, and contains a constant, relentless beat, like the tick- tock beat of a clock. Good golfing! Bill Barkley, a PGA Master Golf Professional w/ a specialty in golf instrution has been golfing for 70 years. He and his wife, Claire, have 11 children, 25 grandchildren and live in Johns Creek.
The Golf Club of Georgia 1 Golf Club Dr., 30005 www.
golfclubofgeorgia.com Two Arthur Hills-designed courses, Lakeside and Creekside are distinctly different from each other offering the golfer enormous architectural, aesthetic and strategic variety. In 1999, Golf Digest honored Lakeside’s par-5, 607 yard 11th hole as one of “America’s Best 99 Golf Holes.”
Crooked Creek Golf Club – Alpharetta Athletic Club East
3430 Highway 9 N, 30004 www.alpharettaac.com Alpharetta Athletic Club’s East Course offers a par 72 Michael Riley design that plays nearly 7000 yards from the back tee. Featuring undulating greens, demanding tee shots, and challenging approach shots, it is regarded by many to be the premier Championship golf course in Greater Atlanta.
The Trophy Club of Atlanta 15135 Hopewell Rod., 30004
www.americangolf.com/trophy-club-atlanta Carved out of heavily wooded terrain in order to create a challenging yet playable course, they now offer Champion Bermuda greens. Nominated as Golf Digest’s “Best New Public Course” when opened in 1992, it was designed by DJ DeVictor and ABC-TV Golf Analyst Steve Melnyk.
Alpharetta Athletic Club 1785 Dinsmore Rd, 30004 www.
alpharettaac.com Although the par 70 Willard Byrd design tips out at 6100 yards, this course will test the patience of any golfer. This risk-reward course gives you the choice to shape a fairway wood to a narrow fairway or go for the gusto and let it rip. It boasts narrow tee shots and pure rolling stamp sized greens.
Echelon Golf Club 501 Founders Dr., 30004 www.echelonliving.com A broad-shouldered beautiful and formidable test designed by famed golf course architect Rees Jones, this course wanders over 600 acres of rolling hills, providing striking elevation changes and panoramic views, most notably on the back nine. This semi-private course also features a 32-acre practice facility. White Columns Country Club 300 Clubhouse Dr., 30004
www.whitecolunscountryclub.com This Tom Fazio designed golf course has consistently been rated one of the area’s top courses, guarded by towering pine trees and featuring large greens. Golfers will find deep bunkers and countless elevation changes as the course layout gradually increasing in challenge and splendor building to a crescendo over the last final five holes.
Atlanta National Golf Club 350 Tournament Players Dr., 30004 www.atlantanationalgolfclub.com Building on a legacy of greatness, this course was crafted by renowned father and son team Pete and P.B. Dye. The 6942 yard, par72 course meanders across 240 acres of natural hardwoods, babbling brooks and rolling hills, perfect for the golfers who demand challenge, playability, beauty and fairness. Manor Golf and Country Club 15951 Manor Club Dr.,
30004 www.manorgcc.com Home to the only Tom Watson championship golf course in Georgia with 18 masterfully designed and memorable holes winding throughout hardwoods and towering pines, quiet lakes and streams. Seeped in the tradition of golf’s birthplace, Scotland, this course is extraordinary, boasting impeccable course conditioning and breathtaking vistas.
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MILTON•alpharetta pets
YES!
It is very IMPORTANT to Give Your Pet a Monthly Heartworm Tablet
Darleen Prem Photography
In the
United States, it is estimated that one million dogs and cats are infected with heartworms. In the Atlanta area, some veterinary hospitals diagnose heartworms as many as fifty times a year! Heartworms are parasites that are spread by mosquitos. They grow inside your pet’s body until they settle in the heart and lungs. Female worms can reach a foot long and produce microfilaria that are then picked up when a mosquito bites your pet and the life cycle is continued. In dogs, the severity of Heartworm Disease depends on how many worms are in the heart and lungs and how long they are present. Initially, you won’t even know your dog is infected. Over time you will notice cough, tiring early on walks, loss of appetite, and weight loss. It can lead to heart failure if not treated promptly. In cats it can be confusing because heartworm disease can be silent until it is too late. Most often, it causes a severe respiratory disease that mimics asthma. Strangely, vomiting is a very common symptom. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all until they have a sudden, severe anaphylactic reaction and death. Even indoor cats are susceptible. Luckily, preventing heartworm disease is easy. There are many products available from your veterinarian that are given every month to kill the immature heartworms before they can mature and cause disease. They have the added benefit of controlling other internal parasites that can harm your pet and family. In the past, many thought you could stop giving monthly heartworm preventatives in the cooler, less mosquito prone times of the year. This is now known to dramatically increase your pet’s chance of being infected. Ideally, your veterinarian will start your puppy or kitten on a monthly preventative at 6 weeks of age. It is very important to give it year round and be diligent about not missing doses.
36 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Your Pet’s “Home Away From Home”
Serving pet owners since 1998
• Nature Walking Trails • Indoor Air Purification System • 2.5 Acres in Milton • Owners on Site • State of the Art Kennels • Special Space for Cats • Indoor/Outdoor Play Areas
640 Dorris Rd., Milton 30004 • 770-754-1700 • bedsandbones.net In as few as sixty days the immature worms can grow too large to be killed by the preventative, and they can continue to grow even as you resume giving it. Call your veterinarian if you have missed a dose and they can advise you what to do. Usually, you give it right away and plan to have your pet tested in about seven months. You have to wait that long because the worms won’t even show up on the test until the they have been growing in the body for almost seven months! Cats may be positive on an “antibody test” at two months, but will need to have another test later as well. It is therefore possible to test negative initially, but be positive the next time. It is also necessary to have dogs and cats tested every year. In addition to owners forgetting to give it, pets are notorious for vomiting up a dose or only chewing part of it. In some areas there can even be resistance. In dogs, testing is very accurate. In cats they need a two step test that checks for the presence of heartworm antibody and antigen. Even one worm in a cat can cause severe disease, but the testing could miss it! Preventing heartworm disease and regular testing is vital. If your pet is found to have heartworms, there is a very successful treatment in dogs but it is costly, may take months, and can have serious risks. In cats, unfortunately, there is no way to safely remove the worms, so the best we can do is to help manage the asthma-like symptoms. Do the right thing for your pet and make sure you take your veterinarian’s advice to heart. Give dogs and cats their heartworm preventative every month and have them tested at least once a year.
Jen graduated Univ. of FL vet school in 1999 and practiced until having children in 2008. She writes about veterinary topics and volunteers veterinary care at local charities.
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Suzanne Taylor and Michelle Knapp are co-creator’s of ScoopOTP, an insider’s guide blog/ web site to living outisde the perimeter. Send them your “scoop” at info@scoopotp.com. www.scoopotp.com
Henry & Pearl • When I think of springtime and Easter, especially here in the South, I think of pastels, seersucker, plaids and bowties. If you feel the same, then you need to check out Henry & Pearl. Named after the two owners dogs, Henry & Pearl offers the classic, preppy lines of clothing you might see in Nantucket, like Vineyard Vines, and their Southern counterparts, Southern Tide, Southern Point, Southern Marsh, Southern Proper, State Traditions and Collard Greens, just to name a few! Ladies, for you they carry brands including: Frye, Dizzy Lizzy, Fresh Laundry and Henry & Belle, just to name a few. Henry & Pearl carry some beautiful local made jewelry pieces to finish off your look, and some great gift items as well. This spring, shop local at Henry & Pearl and they’ll help you put together a look that is perfect for any of your spring gatherings and egg hunts. Broadwell Cottage • Have you ever been in one of those shops that you just can’t stop looking all over? Where even the fixtures of the store are so unique, you try to copy it in your own home? That’s how I felt when I visited Broadwell Cottage for the first time! When I saw they had my next Pinterest project already completed and on display, I knew it was a special place(it was a Christmas tree made completely out of driftwood, don’t judge). Head over and check them out now, as spring is a favorite time of year for Broadwell Cottage, and a great place to get ideas for your own home or garden. The icing on the cake: if you need your purchase gift wrapped, the owner will wrap it beautifully, and top it off with fresh dried flowers. You won’t find that in a chain store! Bella Luna Café • For anyone that has been out shopping
with me, it is well known that I cannot go very long without, at the very least, a drink or a snack, or even better, a meal. Which is why I love the Bella Luna Café, located inside the amazing Scottsdale Farms Nursery and Garden Center. Serving delicious, fresh breakfast and lunch options, the Bella Luna Café is truly a hidden gem. When I first heard about this “café” inside a garden center, I really wasn’t expecting options outside of a frozen pretzel or nachos. To my surprise, the Bella Luna Café has a breakfast and lunch menu that competes with full service eateries. And what a beautiful setting to take in your lunch! No more worrying about your sugar lows and caffeine cravings while shopping, Bella Luna Café has you covered.
38 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
darleen prem photography
Great Steaks and Seafood Serving Dinner Tuesday through Saturday, 5pm - 9pm
www.unionhillgrill.com
jodi zorzi photography
5060 Sugar Pike Rd., Canton, GA 30115 • 770-558-1151 39
healthy living
The Perils of a
Sedentary Lifestyle Spring is
By Amy Keating
upon us and what a great time to reflect on your health. Do you feel as healthy and fit as you should or could be? Do you want to make a change in your health? What are your barriers to changing your unhealthy behaviors? I hope this article will enlighten you about an emerging health crisis in America. What is the health crisis that has infected America? Sedentary behavior has become the American past time over the past two decades. Sitting has become the “activity” of choice during work and leisure for a large percent of Americans. The development and evolution of computers, televisions, email, social networking sites, mobile devices, and cell phones are a few examples of the causes of decreased physical activity. North Fulton is a mecca of professionals working in executive, administrative, or computer based jobs that are sedentary by in large. A high percentage of the North Fulton residents are, also, in their cars for 1-2 hours a day commuting to their sedentary jobs. Between commuting and working in sedentary jobs many of our neighbors engage in a very small amount of daily physical activity. This phenomenon has become an emerging topic of research due to the detrimental effects on our health and society. The research has revealed people need to move frequently throughout their day. Studies from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Australia, and the United Kingdom have all proven working out a few times a week is not enough to negate the effects of sedentary behavior throughout the day. Frequent movement throughout the day along with a regular exercise program has proven to be the most effective way to maintain a healthy body and mind. The human body needs motion to stay healthy. Movement decreases glucose (sugar) in our bloodstream, elicits muscle contractions, improves blood flow to organs, maintains bone density, and reduces the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders. Without physical activity there is an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, generalized weakness, poor general health, diabetes, and premature death. Current research indicates that a large majority of Americans spend between 55-60% of their time in sedentary behavior. According to the CDC, about 69% of American adults are either overweight or obese. These statistics are extremely alarming for America! What can you do to increase your daily activity level? The sit to stand desk and treadmill desk are two excellent products available that replace a traditional desk. Other ways to increase movement include: stand up while on the phone, walk breaks, sit to stand repetitions from your chair, take the stairs, and walk during lunch. Those who work from home can go up and down stairs or ride a stationary bike during phone calls. Verbal and/or written prompts to move have shown promise in research. Commitment to health and creativity are two important factors that will help you achieve a higher daily activity level. Get moving!! Amy C Keating, PT, MSPT has an undergraduate degree from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame and a graduate degree in Physical Therapy from University of North Gerogia. She specializes in geriatrics and works in a skilled rehabilitation facility. 40 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
41
the better generation
SLEEP
A Needed Priority for Restoration
By Brandi Hackett, LMSW, C-ASWCM
ROSWELL CONCRETE • stained concrete for basements and terraces • pools and driveways • patios and walkways • countertops and flooring
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines SLEEP as “a natural periodic suspension of consciousness during which the powers of the body are restored.” The National Sleep Foundation calls it “as important to our health and well-being as air, food, and water.” So, sleep is necessary for life and known to “power” our body… Sounds important, right? However, most of us are sleep deprived!
Studies show that many adults are not getting either enough sleep (the average recommended 7-9 hours per night) or the quality of sleep that is required by our bodies to be restorative. The sustaining powers of sleep are found in the fact that 770-778-0874 • dbarkley99@aol.com quality sleep (also known as REM sleep) allows your body to become immobile and relaxed. Your breathing and heart rate slows, hormones regulate, and it is thought that you also use this time to effectively promote the brain’s ability to retain information through the consolidation of memories. On the other hand, lack of sleep in small doses causes increased difficulties in completing tasks, concentration, unsafe actions, and poor decision making. Multiple studies show a consistent loss of sleep is found to have direct correlation with higher risk of accidents, increased risk of cardiac issues and diabetes, increased risk for psychiatric conditions such as substance abuse and depression, shortened life expectancy, and a higher risk of obesity. Many of the chronic risks are directly related to both quantity and quality of sleep. For example, the primary regulation of the hormones that control appetite, energy metabolism and glucose processing happen during sleep – thus, poor sleep upsets the balance of these hormones that can over time lead to more chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Sleep apnea (one of about 80 sleep disorders) involves the closing of one’s airway during sleep which restricts breathing and if left untreated can also lead to long-term cardiac issues. This is because the heart frequently is alarmed throughout the night that the body is NOT BREATHING – during a time when the heart rate normally would be slowed to a restorative rate! Attaining quality sleep at the correct amount for your body’s specific needs should be your priority! Hope the tips below are helpful to attain this goal: Establish a consistent, relaxing bedtime routine, Be aware of their effects and potentially avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to Brandi Hackett, LMSW, C-ASWCM bedtime. Exercise regularly (but at least 3 hours be- is a Professional Certified Geriatric fore bedtime. Create an environment that promotes Care Manager with SeniorCare sleep and is comfortable. Speak to your doctor (or Options. She is skilled in oncology, specialist) if concerns regarding sleep quantity or nursing, hospice, govt. enefits and quality are affecting our daily life. local resoures, dementia care and support, end of life services. She lives in Canton with her husband and son. Brandih@seniorcareopt.com
42 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Catholic Charities Atlanta Seventh Annual Gala Saturday, April 26, 2014 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. 200 Peachtree 200 Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30303
Join us for a cocktail reception, silent & live auctions, seated dinner, and dancing with The Rupert’s Orchestra. 2014 Archbishop Donoghue Award Honoree: The Knights of Columbus Georgia State Council For more info, visit: catholiccharitiesatlanta.org/participate/2014-gala For sponsorship opportunities & info on silent & live auction donations, contact Lisa McLean at (404) 920-7758 or emclean@catholiccharitiesatlanta.org.
Do I Really Need a Will? By Sumeet P. Shah
Many people say that if they were to die without a will, then all of their possessions would go to their spouse, kids and family members, so do they really need a will? This can happen, but it may take months or even years to settle your estate and it can become quite costly. In the end, everyone may not get what you wanted them to get. Consider this example: You are married with two minor children and you die without a will. Under Georgia law, your spouse receives only 1/3 of your property and your children split the other 2/3 of the property. However, your children are minors, so they cannot receive money directly. Their share of the property will be held under court Guardianship/Conservatorship which brings additional reporting and costs. Your children will receive their inheritance in a lump sum at age 18, whether they are mature enough to handle the money or not. A will can help avoid such a situation.
There are three important documents you should have when creating your estate plan: 1. Last Will and Testament 2. Advance Directive for Healthcare 3. Durable Power of Attorney Now is the time to protect your loved ones to ensure your most important wishes are carried out. Don’t let a court decide who raises your children or who inherits your property. Everyone should have a current Will to choose who will receive your property after you die or who will be the guardian of your minor children. Sumeet P. Shah, an Attorney with Shah Legal Group, LLC. His practice includes real estate, corporate and estate planning. Contact him at sumeet. shah@shahlegalgroup. com or 678.793.7007.
43
Cambridge High Color Guard By Nicole Schuster Two years ago there was no Cambridge High School colorguard, however, we found a way to build this guard program from very little. The few things we did have at our disposal was a guard director willing to help us, one senior, one junior, a few sophomores, and six brand new freshman who had never spun a day in their life.
I watched our guard membership number increase from eleven to an astounding twenty-two. As a whole band we traveled to compete in shows in both Alabama and even Ohio. In Ohio we found ourselves performing in nearly thirty degree weather, but despite this many of us performed the best show of our lives.
During the 2012 fall marching band season every single member of the guard was learning how to spin and how to do it as one cohesive group. We spent the majority of that season building up basic weapon and flag technique at every practice we had. By the end of the season we had won best of class colorguard at multiple competitions.
Currently we are in our second winterguard season, however, this season we are not competing. Instead we are further improving our technique and also advancing our spinning skills. We are still creating a show, but rather than performing at a competition we will just be doing a parent performance. This extra practice and compete free season is helping to prepare us for the London’s New Year’s Eve Parade, which our whole band was formally invited to.
After the end of the fall season we moved on to the winterguard season. Winterguard is where the guard puts together a show and then performs it indoors at various competitions. That season we put on the show, Kickin’ Up Dust, where we portrayed Tinkerbell meeting Peterpan for the first time. This show helped us to work on our dance and performance skills. Throughout the fairy dust filled season we spun and performed as one group and even won a first place trophy.
This next fall season the band as a whole will be focusing more on marching rather than a show in order to help prepare us for the parade. After the parade we hope to come back as a very strong team and then have a very successful competitive winterguard season.
This previous fall, our marching band show was entitled, 2 to Tango. During this season 44 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
gardening
Spring Flower Arrangements By Sissy Williams
Spring has finally sprung and with it
comes a plethora of flowers and color. After the long winter we just survived, I have never been happier to see this blessed season arrive! All you have to do is drive thru our beautiful community, or look in your own yards, to see the beauty this season brings. Cherry and dogwood blossoms, azaleas, jonquils, tulips, lilacs, camellias, irises and snowballs adorn our yards and local markets. I love all varieties of flowers, but springtime flowers are my absolute favorite! My floral design business focuses on designing floral art for weddings and special events, but I am very much of the opinion that flowers should not be reserved for special occasions only. If you love flowers, I encourage you to take advantage of this season and bring the beauty of flowers indoors, to create “fresh art for the home.” If you don’t have the time or interest in creating your own floral arrangement, get to know one of our local floral designers and let them do it for you. However, if you’d like to create your own design, here are few tips for creating a basic arrangement.
to avoid flowers that have been died colors that don’t exist in nature as these will cheapen the look of your design. • Re-cut stems at angles and remove any thorns or leaves that will be below water level. • Place foliage in the container to create the shape you desire. • Place your flowers in between the foliage. Stand each stem in front of the vase to gauge how much to trim it. Remember you can always trim stems shorter but you can’t make them longer! • Be sure you are not cutting all your stems at the same height; you want to create some dimension and depth to your arrangement. • Continually turn your vase to view it from all sides making sure you don’t have a lopsided arrangement. Remember, when creating “fresh art for your home,” don’t be afraid to experiment with containers, colors and types of flowers. If you are intimidated by the process, there are always great ideas on Pinterest just waiting to be tried. Have fun and enjoy the beauty of spring!
• For a more unique design, use something other than a glass vase. Try a bowl, antique bottle, jar, Sissy is native to Georgia, gradugrandmother’s teacup, a wooden box with a vase ated from UGA, and is a 13 year resident of Alpharetta. When set inside etc… Sissy is not selling real estate or • Decide what flowers you will use. This is a designing flowers, she enjoys great time of year to look in your own yard. In hiking, gardening, reading, voladdition to flowers, consider using shrub, tree unteering with youth ministries or herb clippings. All these are great for adding and spending time with her texture as well as varying shades green. husband of 17 years, and their • If you don’t find what you need in your yard, two busy teen daughters. visit the local floral aisle at the market. Be sure 45
Millennials
YOLO Generation And Money By Kali Hawlk
The Millennial
generation got a bad break out of the gate: we graduated college and attempted to enter the workforce during the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Because of this, Generation Y is likely to continue struggling financially for decades to come thanks to two major factors working against us: a massive load of (mostly) student loan debt and jobs that offered us low starting salaries (which means missing out on the earnings we would have made had we not started working in a recession). But there is a large group of Gen Yers who seem to have embraced these troubles. They are romanticizing the idea of just getting by in your twenties and thirties. Instead of fighting to become more financially stable and secure, they're accepting as a fact that you're not supposed to stop living like a broke college student until you're 40. These are the Millennials who claim money is the root of all evil. They are the ones who excessively use #YOLO as an excuse to live without worrying about the future, because tomorrow is promised to no one. Better to live it up now and come within pennies of overdrawing your checking account every month on the off chance that you'll keel over dead next week. The YOLO Generation – or Millennials who are satisfied with just getting by and not worrying about money – spends every last cent they have because their fiscal irresponsibility is justified by the fact that you only live once. Well, sure, but that logic starts failing when you live a long,
healthy life (yet never bothered to save for that nice possibility). The YOLO Generation feels complacent with just getting by instead of seeing that while Millennials have struggled with a unique set of problems, we've also been gifted with brandnew opportunities. With the rise of the digital economy, there has never been a better time than now to become an independent freelancer or entrepreneur. The YOLO Generation ignores the future reality awaiting them: without any form of savings, without any ability to make money for themselves, their only option is to continue working. Their only option is to continue slaving away in jobs they hate, because when they are old and gray they will desperately need what they so earnestly reject now: money. Yes, you only live once. That is an inescapable truth. But what the YOLO Generation got wrong is that there is nothing wrong about wanting to earn money and build wealth. Wanting to increase your net worth does not make you greedy or imply that you're somehow failing to live while you're young. What it does mean is that you're establishing the ability to choose your own way in life instead of being shackled to working for someone else because you need a paycheck every week to continue "just getting by." A 2011 graduate of Kennesaw State University, Kali is passionate about helping Millennials live on less. www. commonsensemillennial.com
46 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Locals Serving Locals Eat and Drink, Locally restaurant spotlight: Union Hill Grill
Beth and David Riordan’s motto is, “Locals serving locals - eat and drink, locally.” Chef/Owners of Crabapple Tavern and Union Hill Grill in the Hickory Flat area of Canton, Beth and David opened this fine dining establishment three years ago. Beth confesses a lot of people thought they were “nuts” for doing elegant dining around here. Obviously, the area was ready for it because their tables are full every night. Success has come to them through hard work and living their locally focused motto. They met 21 years ago while serving and bartending in popular Atlanta restaurants in Buckhead. They had both been career restaurant workers and now are chefs. David was raised living around the business, working at his parents’ restaurnat in upstate New York. Beth began her restaurnat run in high school serving at a terrific steakhouse in Greenville, South Carolina. David had a dream to have his own restaurant; and they wanted a home with a little more breathing room than is typical in town. So, they left Buckhead and opened their first restaurant in Crabapple in 2001. They opened a second restaurant in Crabapple in 2005 and Union Hill Grill in Hickory Flat in 2010. Beth explains, “I feel like success is measured when you can serve your own community.” Union Hill Grill is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner, 5pm to 9pm. Their menu is a special mix of steak, seafood and Southern fare. Union Hill Grill • 5060 Sugar Pike Road, Canton, GA 30115 •770-558-1151 • unionhillgrill.com
47
Blencoe&Co. Photographic Arts
Natural Relief for Seasonal Allergies Eileen is Founder of Abundant Life Wellness, a holistic wellness practice in Crabapple. She is a naturopath, certified nutritional counselor, holistic health practitioner and lymphatic therapist. Eileen and her family live in Milton. www.abundantlifewellness.com
By Eileen Wrobleski
After a chilly North Georgia winter, we welcome with open arms the warmer days of spring. For 40 million Americans, though, the sight of budding trees and pollen-laden cars means the return of seasonal allergies and the accompanying itchy eyes, scratchy throat, runny nose, cough and congestion. At the basis of allergies is an immune system that is not functioning properly. The immune system protects the body from harmful, “non-self ” bacteria, viruses and toxins, called antigens. A cell called a macrophage recognizes an antigen and recreates its shape on the surface of the antigen. The macrophage, carrying the antigen, alerts t-helper cells to the invader, which deliver the message of the invader to B cells. B cells then produce antibodies that kill the antigen. Immune cells remember the pathogen so the next time the body is exposed, it will not produce symptoms. Antibodies continue to be made so that by adulthood, immunity has been built against thousands of pathogens. The problem occurs when the immune system recognizes friendly, or “self,” particles, such as Bermuda grass or milk, as invaders. Antibodies are produced against these friendly invaders and attach themselves to mast cells, which are filled with histamines (neurotransmitter-like chemicals). The mast cell degranulates, releasing histamine and producing allergic symptoms. The type of symptom depends on where the histamine is released. For example, if released in the head, it will cause a migraine headache, if in the joints, arthritis-type symptoms. While T-helper cells turn on B-cells, T-suppressor cells turn off B-cells, antibody production and the accompanying allergic reaction. If this function of T-helpers and T-suppressors can be manipulated, much suffering from allergic reaction can be eliminated. Fortify the immune system with probiotics, fish oil, liposomal vitamin C, vitamin D3, greens powder and nanoparticle silver. Symptomatic relief can be found with natural anti-histamines and anti-inflammatories, including stinging nettle tea; local, raw honey; isoquercitrin (EMIQ), a form of the bioflavanoid quercetin; curcumin; polyphenols in green tea and apples; and essential oils of peppermint, lavender and lemon, swished in the mouth for 20 seconds and swallowed. The underlying cause of seasonal allergies can be further addressed with allergy elimination techniques, such as NAET, targeted homeopathic detoxification protocols, and phenolic desensitization. 48 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
places to go • people to see • things to do
calendar APRIL • MAY 1Tuesday
Taste of Webb Bridge The 10th annual Taste of Webb Bridge will feature more than 20 local restaurants and samplings from their menus. Food, fun, prizes, music by WBMS Jazz Band and Violin Ensemble. 5:30pm – 8:30pm, Webb Bridge Middle School, 4455 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-6672940. Tasteofwebbbridge.com
4 Friday
J-Mood at The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta 855-583-5838 7:30pm, Atlanta area artist J-Mood are a superb group of classic jazz players specializing in styles of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. thevelvetnote.com MDA Boot Drive kicks off by the City of Milton Fire Department to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Fill the Boot at various locations throughout Milton every other Friday until June 13. HOWLpharetta Ghost Tour, historic downtown Alpharetta, 8pm. Experience some of Alpharetta’s extensive history through a narrated walking tour. Alpharettatours.com
5 Saturday
The Song Project at The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta 855-583-5838 $20 7:30pm The Song Project is redefining jazz for a new gener-
ation by expanding its improvisations to songs ranging from Radiohead, Paul McCartney, AC/DC and Cole Porter. Thevelvetnote.com
6 Sunday
Caffeine & Octane, A car show that displays cars both new and old, foreign and domestic, bone stock and wildly modified. 8am – 11am. 12600 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta caffeineandoctane.com
Massage... The Perfect Fit for Every Mom
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with purchase of two $75 Gift Cards *60 Minute Custom Massage or 60 Minute Custom Signature Facial Offer expires: 05/31/14
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60 Minute Custom Session for New Clients (reg. $6995)
Open 7 Days a Week - Extended Hours GA Licensed Therapists LaVida Massage of Alpharetta 12460 Crabapple Rd. | Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.740.0654 Alpharetta.GA.LaVidaMassage.com Therapeutic • Convenient • Affordable Enjoy the proven health benefits of customized therapeutic massage: - Sleep Like a Baby - Enhance Immunity - Pain Management - Reduce Stress - More Energy - Improve Concentration
8 Tuesday
*Session includes time for consultations and dressing.
Children’s Art Activity, Paint on Canvas at Scottsdale Farms Garden Center, 15639 Birmingham Hwy., Milton. Fun and educational art event, painting a butterfly on canvas. $20. 1 hour. 10am. 770-777-5875 Spring Cleaning With Essential Oils at ROAM Alpharetta, 5815 windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, 30005. This class will introduce you to the world of essential oils and how to use them for your everyday cleaning needs. 11:30
10 Thursday
Custom Massage or Facial Session!
Ladies Night Out at ReOwn
#mothersday
Consignment, 380 South Main Street, Alpharetta 770-754-0065 Free swag bags for the first 10 customers; wine and appetizers, make-up applications, in-store fashion show. Reownconsignment.wix.com
12 Saturday
Kemba Cofield at The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta 855-583-5838 www. thevelvetnote.com, $20, 7:30pm Winner of “Future of Jazz Straight Ahead Vocalist” award, Kemba Cofield captures the essence of every song she sings.
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places to go • people to see • things to do Easter “Eggstravaganza” at North Park Softball Fields, 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta, activeadults@ alpharetta.ga.us 1-4pm, 678297-6143 Altrusa International of Atlanta Mini Golf Classic 2014! 9am, 5100 Commerce Parkway next to Aurora Theatre off of Holcomb Bridge Road. Bring your family to the Fringe to tee off in teams of four. $25 pp. altrusaatlanta.org. Couples Night Out at Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta 770-751-8560 $90 per couple. Great opportunity to take your lady for a romantic dinner that you prepare with the help of our expert chefs. Eat, drink and learn the secrets to preparing a meal that will leave you both smiling. www.publix.com/ aprons Dr Seuss’s Imagination Celebration at North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta For children 2-10 years old to enjoy story time, crafts, games, music, prizes, face painting and more. Northpointmall.com
13 Sunday
Palm Sunday Concert – Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual songs” at St James United Methodist Church, 3000 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta. Honor Christ in the Lenten Season in their first ever Palm Sunday Concert. The Sanctuary Choir has prepared and awesome evening of music. FREE. 678-762-1543. music@stjamesumc.org
the Southern Rock, folk, blues and Americana genres.
15 Tuesday
Alpharetta Farmers Market, 8:30am – 1pm, downtown Alpharetta. Find fruits, vegetables, natural meats, gardeners with fresh flowers and herbs, makers of all sorts of edible home goods from desserts and breads to local raw honey and sauces, jellies, soaps.
Free Cookies for the people of Milton and Alpharetta on Tax Day! Great American Cookies at North Point Mall. No purchase necessary. Learn Cake Decorating from the Pros sponsored by Milton’s “Better Together” and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Free event, 3pm – 6pm at Nothing Bundt Cakes, 5230 Windward Pkwy. 20 attendees will receive a free Bundt cake!
17 Thursday
Food Truck Alley, downtown Alpharetta. Feast on the street as a variety of 6-8 rotating food trucks and music kick off the weekend. Delicious food and music! 5pm – 9pm awesomealpharetta.com
Easter Hop and Hunt Egg Hunt at Milton’s Cuisine sponsored by Blencoe & Co Photographic Arts and the Crabapple Community Association. Brunch $32pp, Family photos with the Easter Bunny and an Easter Egg Hop and Hunt! 800 Mayfield Rd., Milton. www.miltonscuisine.com
LEGO Minifigure Speed Build Challenge at 5pm at The LEGO Store at North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Circle.
Easter Egg Hunt during business hours at Scottsdale Farms in Milton on Birmingham Hwy. Children can search for hidden eggs in the Enchanted Forest. Bring the eggs to the cashier for a prize! 9am to 6pm.
18 Friday
Parent and Child Easter Egg Decorating Class at Scottsdale Farms, 15639 Birmingham Hwy, Milton. $5 per child. 10:30am. 770-777-5875 Michelle Malone at The Velvet Note, 7:30pm, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta. 855-5835838. Thevelvetnote.com, $20. Michelle Malone is an American award-winning singer-songwriter and guitarist in
Good Friday at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre with Louie Giglio, Chris Tomlin, Crowder, Christy Nockels and Kristian Stanfill. 7:30pm, 2200 Encore Pkwy. A contemplation and celebration of the Cross.
19 Saturday
Spring’s Bounty at 7pm at Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-751-8560. The weather is getting better and it is time to celebrate the season with a menu that highlights some of spring’s best offerings. Publix.com Earth Day Festival 11am City of Milton, Friendship Park 12785 Birmingham Hwy., Milton. Earth Day – Stop by Scottsdale Farms in Milton on Birmingham Hwy for free strawberry lemonade to celebrate the bounty of the earth! 8am, all day.
20 Sunday
Dwan Bosman’s Easter Celebration at The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta, 855-583-5838, $20. Dwan’s musical heritage is in classical and jazz improvisational techniques. Thevelvetnote.com
24 Thursday
Food Truck Alley, downtown Alpharetta. Feast on the street as a variety of 6-8 rotating food trucks and music kick off the weekend. Delicious food and
50 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
music! 5pm – 9pm awesomealpharetta.com
25 Friday
Girl’s Night Out at Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta, 770-751-8560. $45. Leave your husbands and kids at home while you enjoy at night out. www.publix.com Milton High School Boys Golf Team will be Sponsoring a Massive Garage Sale. All Proceeds will benefit Milton’s Boys Golf Team. 9am-3pm, 310 White Columns Court Milton, Ga 30004. White Columns Subdivision(Golf Section). Furniture, Books, Second Hand Clothing, Household Items, Golf Clubs and Bags and More. Any Questions, please call me Jane Stuetelberg at 630-8032042. Legacy Lacrosse Cup at area high schools in Milton and Alpharetta; $15. Elite teams from all over the nation will compete in this tournament, inspired by legacy player Parker Jackson. Legacylacrossecup.com Milton Theatre Company presents “Cirque.” Students perform various stunts and acrobatics in this fast-paced, action-packed and award-winning show. Miltontheatrecompany.com
26 Saturday
Alpharetta Farmers Market, 8:30am – 1pm, downtown Alpharetta. Find fruits, vegetables, natural meats, gardeners with fresh flowers and herbs, makers of all sorts of edible home goods from desserts and breads to local raw honey and sauces, jellies, soaps. Artful Alpharetta Art Show at the Alpharetta Welcome Center, 178 South Main Street; 678-297-0102; Free event
showcasing eight of Alpharetta’s talented and accomplished artists, each displaying numerous pieces of premier art in various mediums. Awesomealpharetta. com Alpharetta Arts Streetfest, downtown Alpharetta, 10am to 6pm; Celebrate the arts at one of the city’s most popular events. Downtown streets will be closed so nearly 100 artists, musicians and performers from around the US are showcased for your enjoyment. Children’s Art section, Dancing, Jazz, 14 medium expressions. Awesomealpharetta. com
GIFT BASKETS
• local delivery/ UPS delivery • Mother’s Day, Easter • New Baby, Graduation • Any Occasion
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Alpharetta Garden Club Pass Along Plant Sale at Mansell House and Gardens, 1835 Old Milton Pkwy, 770-343-8490. Come early to get the best selections of plants from members’ gardens. Tours will be offered of the gardens, as well. By the Alpharetta Garden Club Apres Streetfest – Artist Talk at das Gallery. Spend the afternoon at this juried show within the Alpharetta Streetfest. 2225 Old Milton Pkwy. 6pm.
27 Sunday
Alpharetta Arts Streetfest, downtown Alpharetta, 10am to 6pm; Celebrate the arts at one of the city’s most popular events. Downtown streets will be closed so nearly 100 artists, musicians and performers from around the US are showcased for your enjoyment. Children’s Art section, Dancing, Jazz, 14
medium expressions. Awesomealpharetta.com ALABAMA: All American Tour 2014 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Pkwy.
30 Wednesday
Gardening with Perennials workshop at the Alpharetta Public Works Building, 1790Hembree Road. 7pm. 678-2976200
1 Thursday
20th Annual North Fulton Golden Games opening ceremony, Alpharetta Community Center, 10am. The games are open to area adults, ages 50+ and registration is just $15 for as many events as you’d like to enter! Includes T-shirt and opening day picnic lunch. Visit cityofmiltonga.us for more information. Food Truck Alley, downtown
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places to go • people to see • things to do Alpharetta. Feast on the street as a variety of 6-8 rotating food trucks and music kick off the weekend. Delicious food and music! 5pm – 9pm awesomealpharetta.com Milton Theatre Company presents “Cirque.” Students perform various stunts and acrobatics in this fast-paced, action-packed and award-winning show. Miltontheatrecompany.com
3 Saturday
Chukkar Farm Concert Series begins! Every Saturday, through the summer. 8pm, 1140 Liberty Grove Rd., Alpharetta. James Casto’s percussive/piano/pop keyboards and soulful vocals have created a loyal following of fans. His concerts at Chukkar Farm feature some of the best performing songwriters in the country in one of the most beautiful settings. Alpharetta Farmers Market, 8:30am – 1pm, downtown Alpharetta. Find fruits, vegetables, natural meats, gardeners with fresh flowers and herbs, makers of all sorts of edible home goods from desserts and breads to local raw honey and sauces, jellies, soaps.
4 Sunday
Caffeine & Octane, A car show that displays cars both new and old, foreign and domestic, bone stock and wildly modified. 8am – 11am. 12600 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta caffeineandoctane.com Atlanta Wind Symphony – Free Concert! 3pm at Alpharetta First United Methodist Church Sanctuary. Family entertainment. 3pm. Symphony concert entitled “To Infinity and Beyond!” Atlantawindsymphony. org
8 Thursday
Taste of Alpharetta, downtown Alpharetta; 5pm – 10pm, Southeast’s premier dining festival celebrates its 23rd year. Dine at over 50 restaurants in one unforgettable nights that’s an annual tradition for over 50,000 people. Cooking demonstrations, music, Fun zone, vendors.
10 Saturday
Grand Re-Opening and Dedication of Furkids Dog Shelter “Sadie’s Place” at 1pm, 1520 Union Hill Rod, 30005. Free. Experience the beautiful shelter, meet the dogs available for adoption and learn about new volunteer opportunities. Smalldoghumane.org Mother/Daughter/Granddaughter Luncheon at the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center
14 Wednesday
Kids Eat Free at CANS Taqueria in Milton, 12635 Crabapple Road. 770-663-0908. Kids 12 & Under eat free. 1 kid’s menu item per 1 full priced adult entrée. Drinks not included.
15 Thursday
Belly Dance Lesson at Amoora Dance, 214 South Main Street, Alpharetta. Get your shimmy on, and energizing cardio class blended with a graceful mix of Egyptian Belly Dance moves. Amooradance.com, 7pm Food Truck Alley, downtown Alpharetta. Feast on the street as a variety of 6-8 rotating food trucks and music kick off the weekend. Delicious food and music! 5pm – 9pm awesomealpharetta.com
17 Saturday
MedAssets Hire Heroes USA 5K Race for Heroes is a family event to raise funds creating job opportunities for veterans and their spouses. North Point Mall and Mansell. $25.
Mudcat at Matilda’s Under the Pines at Matilda’s, 377 South Main Street, downtown Alpharetta; Mudcat’s authentically-soulful and emotionally-charged vocals have an old time, down home blues and folk feel that is sure to get your feet stomping and your body moving. Matildascottagemarket.com
20 Tuesday
Golden Age Club Luncheon, Alpharetta Adult Activity Center
22 Thursday
Food Truck Alley, downtown Alpharetta
24 Saturday
Alpharetta Art in the Park presented by Gallery 35 at Old Milton Park, 35 Milton Ave., Alpharetta Saturday 9am -4pm, Sunday 11am-4pm; artists will be at work creating masterpieces right before your eyes at this outdoor market under the trees.
29 Thursday
Food Truck Alley, downtown Alpharetta. Feast on the street as a variety of 6-8 rotating food trucks and music kick off the weekend. Delicious food and music! 5pm – 9pm awesomealpharetta.com
31 Saturday
Mike Willis at Matilda’s Under the Pines, 8:30pm 377 South Main Street Under the Pines at Matilda’s, $15. Bring your lawn chairs. Matildascottagemarket. com Alpharetta Farmers Market, 8:30am – 1pm, downtown Alpharetta. Find fruits, vegetables, natural meats, gardeners with fresh flowers and herbs, makers of all sorts of edible home goods from desserts and breads to local raw honey and sauces, jellies, soaps.
52 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
ADVERTISER INDEX
thank you very much for your support of our community magazine! Abundant Life Wellness, p31 Artizan Designs Pools, p21 Atlanta National Golf Club, p33 The Barker Lounge, p37 Blencoe&Co. Photographic Arts, p41 Bruno Construction, p11 Camp2Community Summer Camp, p10 Catholic Charities of Atlanta, p43 Chris Hoffman Homes, p29 Chukkar Farms Summer Camp, p11 Crabapple Beds and Bones, p37 Denim & Diamonds Benefit, Inside Back Cover Forfront Arts Summer Camps, p9 Fortitude Farms Summer Camp, p11 Goddard School -Alpharetta/Crabapple, p7 Heather Photographers, p53 Interior Improvements Remodeling, p13 Jacqueline Mogan - Mission Possible, p27 Kay Stabrowski - Keller Williams Realtor, p31 La Casa Italian Restaurant, p20 LaVida Massage - Alpharetta, p49 The Little Gym of Alpharetta, p17 The Manor Golf & Country Club, p33 The Mint Tulip Gift Baskets, p51 Olde Blind Dog, p3 Othel’s Art Gallery, p16 Pinecrest Academy Summer Camps,p7 Premier Indoor Comfort, Inside Front Cover Raisin’s Ranch Pony Parties, p25 Reid Casey Team - KW Realtors, Back Cover Roswell Concrete, p42 Shanghai Acupuncture Clinic, p15 Union Hill Grill, p39 White Columns Golf & Country Club, p33 Yawn’s Books and Publishing, p11 You Gotta Have Art Summer Camps, p4 53
pray
A Mother’s
Unconditional Love
“She is clothed with strength and dignity and can laugh at the days to come.” Proverbs 31:25 By Polly Balint
While enjoying golf with three friends I started thinking about Mom and how she left me such a wonderful legacy of playing golf and loving life. I remembered what she was like on my last trip to Coral Gables, FL. She could barely speak and could walk if someone was helping her. Still, she was so pleasant and willing to do whatever was in front of her. She was humble and consistently thankful. Growing up and even in my adulthood she always made everything an adventure; whether we would be eating hamburgers outdoors or having a bowl of ice cream. She’d say, “We’re having a party!” Whatever it was, she made it special somehow. When we were living on our farm in Pennsylvania, on a whim, she’d load up a picnic basket, load us in the station wagon and we’d drive down the pasture road to our creek. She’d start a campfire, get out her huge black iron skillet and make us fried egg sandwiches. We were having another party! Mom saw life as wonderful gift and always wanted to make the most of every moment with a joyful, thankful attitude. She handled the ripple effects of her tragic divorce with so much grace. Without warning, Dad walked out on her and five children. She had the heartbreak of him leaving--she obviously loved him--and faced the relentless struggles of raising us. She didn’t complain. She loved us deeply and kept us all together. Now I know it was God who gave her such strength and dignity. We grew up going to church, Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. She made birthdays special. She made holidays special. We took trips to Florida and ended up moving there. She rented large cabins in North Carolina during the summer. We took regular beachside vacations. We learned to play golf at young ages. We fished. We went boating. We had people come over all the time for our festive dinners. Mom didn’t expect anything from anyone. With her generous heart she shared her gift of hospitality. She loved to dance, sing, eat, and most of all Mom loved to laugh. She laughed all the time. If she wasn’t laughing she was smiling. She did not care what people thought of her. She didn’t think about herself. She wasn’t impressed with expensive things, even though that was the lifestyle in which she grew up. She just wanted to love people. Mom, also known as Mary Brown, succeeded in showing me she loved me unconditionally. No matter how many bad choices I’ve made in my life she remained my biggest cheerleader, always encouraging me with her love and wise words. And I loved her unconditionally knowing she had faults, too. Unconditional love and grace are gifts from God to your heart. God made Mom a gift to my heart, too.
Author, encourager, blogger, marketing consultant and founder of That Girl Marketing, LL, Polly is working on her fourth book in her Totally Devoted series published at Yawn's Publishing in Historic Downtown Canton, GA. She has 25 years of writing experience as a newspaper reporter and magazine columnist. She founded and hosted the Woodmont Ladies Bible Study for nine years. She's been emcee and guest speaker at various women's events. Polly's books are available at Yawn's Publishing, Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble. com Contact Polly @ www.totallydevoted2. blogspot.com
54 April/May 2014 • miltongamagazine.com
Reid Casey Team
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