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The Top 5 Holiday Movies to Binge this December!
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tara Gary Malika Bowling Di Chapman Joe Duffy Britt Argo SOCIAL MEDIA Tricia Morris tricia@thecurrenthub.com
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The Top 5 Holiday Movies to Binge this December: by Britt Argo
D
ecember is my favorite month for binging movies. Cooler weather, and extra time off for the holidays, is the perfect excuse to stay in and share these classic films with friends and family. It’s a tradition to watch your favorite films again each year! Whether you curl up with the sentimental classics, prefer a funnier flick, or a beloved animated film, here is something for everyone’s taste (in no order—too difficult to rate a favorite): 1. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)
Jimmy Stewart & Donna Reed star in this classic. On Christmas Eve, a down and out George Bailey contemplates suicide. An angel, Clarence, helps George Bailey see how the Bedford Falls town, his wife and family would end up, if George was never born. Through a series of flashbacks, George is reminded just how special his family is, and how much the town needs him if given a 2nd chance. Highlight Scene—George & Mary dancing in the gymnasium when the pool underneath opens, and everyone falls in.
2. A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983)
Set in the 1940’s, little Ralphie just wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, even though all the elders say “He’ll shoot his eye out. Who can forget Ralphie in a Pink Bunny Suit or his tumultuous dept store visit when Santa kicks him down the slide. His dad cursing like a chimney over the smoking busted radiator, or that 1 legged fish net stocking lamp his dad worships, but mom hates. His school friend bullied into licking the frozen metal pole and getting his tongue stuck on it on a dare. Or Ralphie’s fantasies of saving everyone in his make believe western—if he only had that Red Ryder BB Gun. One of my personal faves—a must see!
3. ELF (2003)
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a loveable but gullible human raised as a Christmas Elf in the North Pole. Upon discovering he is adopted, he journeys to New York City to meet his real father, Walter (James Caan). However, it’s not an easy task to win him over, Walter is a workaholic, distant from his own family, and lacking the Christmas spirit. Buddy’s child-
like wonder and enthusiasm for all things Christmas help him win over Walter’s wife and son, as well as Jovie (Zooey Deschanel), the singing store elf he is smitten with. It’s Will Ferrell’s over the top antics, and full commitment to revive “Christmas Spirit” in everyone that eventually powers Santa’s sleigh to save Christmas and win over his dad.
4. LOVE ACTUALLY (2003)
The ultimate romantic comedy shows us “How All You Need is Love”. Director Richard Curtis packs a power-house cast : Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Bill Nighy, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Laura Linney, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Andrew Lincoln and so many more to weave an interlocking tale of 8 couples finding love one Christmas in London.
5. DIE HARD (1988)
Yes, it is a Christmas Movie! NYPD officer John McClane gets trapped in Los Angeles’s Nakatomi Plaza during his estranged wife’s office Christmas Party. This is a classic tale of the lengths one man will go to, in order to save his wife in time for Christmas. A group of elite German Terrorist bank robbers led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) take the tower hostage. A barefoot John (Bruce Willis) must out-smart, out play, and out gun them one by one, while battling exploding elevator shafts, booby trapped roofs, and all that broken glass. And kill the bad guy, of course, as he falls to his death in slow motion.
Other Great Holiday Movies to Enjoy: 6. Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! 7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 8. Home Alone 9. The Polar Express 10. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation ** Some of these films get re-released in select movie theaters in December. Check www.Fandango.com for a list of local theaters playing the films and showtimes. To watch trailers and learn more about the movies, check out: www. IMDB.com l Britt Argo, an avid movie fan for more than 30 years, sees an average of 150 movies a year in movie theaters. She is the marketing cooordinator at Area 51: Aurora Cineplex and The Fringe Miniature Golf-5100 Commerce Parkway in Roswell. 770518-0977. auroracineplex.com & a51fun.com.
life & style
by Tara Gary
W
ell it seems we have made it to December.
Congratulations to us! With this year having presented its share of obstacles and situations most of us could have never imagined its finally time to celebrate! The holiday season is especially something to look forward to this year. The lights, the songs, the merriment of the season, and the feeling you get when you have selected the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! What’s that? Ah, I hear skepticism. Well I may not be an elf, but I have assembled a dud proof gift guide to make this last month of 2020 easy for you, well as far as taking care of your gift list is concerned. Knowing the importance of supporting our local businesses, especially this year, I have “reigned” the help of a few of my favorite locally owned spots. Roswell General, an uncommon goods and outdoor living themed general store opened its doors this year. That’s right, this year. It is absolutely one of my favorite stores (and it’s not because they offer a nice cold local draft beer to you while perusing the shop). That’s just a perk! Roswell General literally has something for everyone on your list, even the men.
Personally, finding gifts men will love can be a difficult task. Not at Roswell General. They have one the largest selections around of Big Green Egg products. As a Platinum Dealer of Big Green Egg, you can be ensured they stock or can easily get anything a griller needs. Unique sauces like The General’s Hot Sauce in the glass grenade container, grilling tools, sunglasses, hats, wallets, manly soaps, and grooming supplies are some of the fun items any man on your list would love to receive.
I love a good logo and Roswell General has a simple logo that looks great on their hats and t-shirts. So much so that initially they had made them for the employees and customers asked if they could purchase them.
Barbara Designs. And look at how crafty these recipe books are that open to reveal cookie cutters, cheese knives, and other useful serving utensils.
Check out these t-shirts and hats from Merica Clothing Co. I plan on grabbing a few for my college age son. I can’t get past these Roswell Local shirts and hat without wanting one in every color.
Look at these new colors and sizes of Yeti products: deep purple, orange, and hunter green are super popular, and the new slim Yetis are perfect for White Claw or thin can drinker on your list.
A go to for anyone on your list is easy with these products by Brumate. With an extraordinary variety of shapes and sizes these items will keep beverages hot or cold and transport them in style. A bright colored wine bottle size can keep chardonnay cool and crisp all day and the Margtini is a great addition to any night out with the girls!
I love these whimsical bags by Santa
There are so many amazing gifts to choose from. You just can’t go wrong. From stocking stuffers, candles to
DECEMBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
SHOP LOCAL! OUR 2020 GIFT GUIDE TO LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING
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life & style brighten the spirit, holiday décor to deck the halls, gifts for dog lovers, old fashioned candy, and so much more make sure you visit Roswell General.
whelmed, in a good way. The selection of clothing is fantastic considering the boutique addresses everything from lounge wear to party and event wear. One might assume such a boutique to be presumptuous. Touché it is however a more than appropriately priced, full of surprises, inviting boutique. Plaid is everywhere. These masks are the perfect stocking stuffer or “extra lil’ something” to gift. Priced at $4.50 you simply can’t go wrong.
ATLANTA’S BEST MINI GOLF IS OPEN FRI - SAT - SUN
One more thing. Saturday’s typically from noon-3:00pm the Big Green Egg on the front porch of the store is fired up and there’s always something yummy to sample. Watch and taste why the Big Green Egg has such a huge following. Be sure to enjoy the complimentary featured local draft beer as well!
Roswell General Store roswellgeneral.com (770)858-5898 35 Woodstock Road Roswell, GA 30075 Fiore Boutique is conveniently located in downtown Alpharetta amongst the many shops and restaurants that have recently defined the new and improved downtown Alpharetta. Alpharetta has taken the typical southern downtown domain to a new level of swagger. There is no denying that this city has accepted a higher level of sophistication and ran with it. Equally as impressive are the numerous existing and newly operational restaurants, shops, and bars that have blossomed despite the 2020 epidemic. Alpharetta has many shops I would highly recommend visiting and one of those has an enormous selection of fabulous gifts for the woman, daughter, or distinctively feminine recipient on your list. This is not your typical boutique. Fiore is so much more than that. The clothes are trendy yet sophisticated. Upon first entering the store one might be over-
Whether staying home or attending a small get together during the holidays these sequin masks take an outfit up a notch. At $4.50 who could deny this perfect accessory?!
Toy Drive
2020 is what it is. It might be recorded as the year of the most worked from home days ever. I can only imagine how high the sales have catapulted in the lounge wear departments. Check out this adorable Ash Rose lounge wear ensemble. Terry cloth top and shorts that scream a cute put together look but secretly reveal ultra-comfort. The initial necklace adds that touch of confidence just enough to hide one might be wearing pj’s. Who knows? The lounge wear set comes in at just under $40 and the initial necklace is an astounding price breaker at $10. That was easy! Right?
December 4th - 6th December 11th - 13th Donate 1 unwrapped toy and receive a free small popcorn.
Donations will be delivered to North Fulton Community Charities
Aurora Cineplex The Fringe Miniature Golf Roswell Town Center 5100 Commerce Parkway (770) 518-0977 www.auroracineplex.com
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Proud to be an Alpharetta local and show it. These Alpharetta Coordinate Soy candles not only make a statement but smell indulgent in the spa kind of way. Another example of a truly great gift at $32.00 each.
When budget and thoughtfulness coincide look no further than these Allison + Young initial necklaces. Originally priced at $18.00 reduced to $9.00 they are the perfect “I thought of you in a sensible way” gift.
His suggestions:
I could go on but honestly you should see for yourself the wide range of on trend clothing, jewelry, accessories, and gifts both thoughtful and fun to gleefully please that certain someone on your list.
Appreciating friends and what they bring into your life or table couldn’t be more fitting as this wine lovers doormat. Doormat $19.50
Fiore Boutique myfioreboutique.com (404)645-2674 92 Milton Avenue Suite No. 300 Alpharetta, GA 30009 2020 has led me to view more than
• Roger Coulon 'Heri-Hodie' Brut Premier Cru | Champagne, France $63 - A great way to celebrate the holidays! This Premier Cru Grower Champagne is an amazing value. Incredible depth and complexity with the perfect balance of richness and bubbles. • Forlorn Hope 'Queen Of The Sierra' Amber | Calaveras County, California $25 - An amber wine is made by using white grapes (Chardonnay, Muscat, Verdelho, Albarino) and allowing the skins of the grapes to soak in the juice for an extended period of time. The resulting wine can be orange, amber, copper or pink in color and have more depth and complexity than a typical white wine.
• Division Wine Company 'Beton' Red Blend | Willamette Valley, Oregon $29 - This wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Malbec and Syrah. Kate Norris apprenticed in France's Loire Valley and her wines are graceful and elegant as a result. Beton refers to the use of cement tanks for ageing. This wine is medium bodied and has a nice tannin structure that frames the dark fruit perfectly. • Ampeleia 'Kepos' Super Tuscan | Tuscany, Italy $33 - Ampeleia was found by a group of friends who wanted to farm biodynamic and make natural wines in Tuscany. The stunning results of their commitment to farming and natural winemaking practice is their Grenache blend Kepos. This wine has rich well balanced fruit and a touch of earth and tannin on the finish. Needs to decant for at least 30 minutes. A stunning red blend from Tuscany. • Vina Sastre Tempranillo | Ribera Del Duero, Spain $24 - This Tempranillo is from the Ribera Del Duero region in central Spain. Full bodied with a soft finish, this wine has incredible intensity and balance. Great with steak.
Fermented Wine Boutique (470)361-2091 fermentedatl.com 50 Canton St Alpharetta, GA 30009
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White Claws has become the new “Strawberry Hill” wink and nod if your tastebuds have since fully cultivated beyond the 80’s. My 22-yearold daughter has a deep affection for White Claw as do many according to the beverages ever increasing sales. This sweatshirt is a sure winner for the gift recipient who is “devoted” to the refreshing beverage. This adorable $33.00 “Santa Claws” sweatshirt is sure to overwhelmingly please the White Claw devotee.
We all have “that friend”, maybe even more than one but you know who deserves this dish towel trophy. At $12 this dishtowel acknowledges the sometimes “inappropriate” yet “I still love you” gift recipient on your list. (Kara, this is headed your way. ;))
my fair share of gameshows. The answer is “wine”. The question is “What is the most common housewarming, holiday, thank you for having us gift”. I’ll admit wine can be intimidating to purchase. Am I spending enough or too little? Will the recipient even know the difference? Fermented in Alpharetta has taken a comfortable and inviting approach to the wine scene. Encouraging exploration, the store has tasted thousands of wines to find the best families and bottles to present its customers. Fermented takes away the confusion, distributing the best wines at every price level. The locally owned store not only provides guidance, should you need it, it also offers tastings, private events, dinners, fundraising opportunities, and bridal selection tastings for the “big day”. From party wine, table wine, date night wine, special occasion wine collector wine, to curated wine packs there is something to keep the appreciative to most finicky recipient delighted. I asked owner Adam Danielson to offer some suggestions for go-to bottles for this holiday season. He was happy to oblige and it was easy to see this is his passion.
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life & style
WE FOUND THE BEST KEPT SECRET FOR YOUR HOME BUSINESS by Tara Gary
You may have seen the terribly uncomfortable and cringe worthy videos of zoom calls gone wrong. With many professionals working from home this year opportunities for wandering pets, curious children, and other unforeseen unfortunate situations have plagued the workforce. Wouldn’t it be great to have a clean, clutter free, high speed internet, fully functional office to keep you and your business focused? Do you have a business linked to your home address? Packages being delivered at inconvenient times, no place to store your inventory, and the constant distractions of the average household to-do tasks constantly pulling you away from work keep many individuals frustrated. I had the opportunity to visit a different and unique coworking and warehouse space which recently opened here in Roswell. Owner Alan Crowe invited me to tour Room2Work to see how different and unique his co-working, all-in-one office concept works. Immediately it occurred to me Room2Work is in an office complex, not a strip mall. First impressions are everything especially if you have invited a potential or current client to
Room2work | 1007 Mansell Rd. Suite A Roswell, GA 30076 | room2work.com | (470) 721-0606
a meeting. I noticed ample parking available and locked doors to the entry accessible to those who belong there only. After I was greeted by Alan, who is genuinely enthusiastic about his business concept, I was led into an extremely clean, comfortable, and well thought out workspace. Dedicated desks separated by distance and clear dividers accompanied by 27” monitors, power strips with USB ports, printer access and the availability of fresh coffee made for an inviting work environment. Cleanliness and bright natural light are extremely important to me and I could envision myself sitting at one of these desks, distraction free, getting my work done efficiently. I could not help noticing the spacious conference rooms. Studio A has seating for 8 with a large glass whiteboard and 65” 4K screen. For those of us who prefer to stand while our creative juices flow, Studio C offers a standing table centered around a 50” 4K display. Should you need a quiet studio to record a podcast with bigger sound, Studio D is available. My favorite and most surprising portion of the tour was the warehouse. A large
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you can use the services of the typical virtual mailbox carrier in a strip mall. (Nothing screams homemade business than a strip mall address); but you now have access to a professional address, in a professional building, with safety and security a top priority. You also have the convenience of having large warehouse deliveries available when needed. There is no longer the need to waste a portion of your day waiting for a delivery when Alan and his team are there to accept and safely secure even larger warehouse deliveries. I could go on describing the unique and thoughtfully designed space created for the entrepreneur and work from home professional, but I highly suggest touring the facility yourself. Once you do, I know you will be convinced this is a space created just for you and your individual needs. For more information visit Room2Work.com. Virtual tours are available online or call (470)721-0606 to visit and meet the team. l
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warehouse is available with individual storage units for inventory of your business. No more parking your car in the driveway because of inventory cluttering your garage and basement. I love the concept of inviting a client to this professional workspace and being able to access any inventory they may request to see, or you may need to access at any time. Alan’s enthusiasm and dedication to creating a space for the entrepreneur sets his workspace apart from the typical co-working space. He has not only created a professional workspace, he has incorporated a highly flexible virtual office space as well. I travel much of the time and as you might imagine the security of having mail and packages safely delivered can be an issue. With Room2Work mail, packages, and deliveries small or large are accepted and safely managed to accommodate your needs. The virtual mailbox notifies you through a free app on your phone when you have mail or a package. You can request to scan, shred, forward, or hold it for pick up, all from the app. Of course,
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AMAZING ASIAN IN JOHNS CREEK When he’s not eating, which is rare, the author is CEO of Sports Handicapping website OffshoreInsiders.com. His bride’s gift site, DuffyGifts.com is the place to go for gifts of all occasions from My Thirty One Gifts. by Joe Duffy
A
s an evangelist for suburban dining, I happily grant that uOTPia is slowing receiving the adoration it merits, particularly when it pertains to Asian fare. Renowned Atlanta restaurant critic Christiane Lauterbach has been vocal singing the praises of Duluth’s Korean and Vietnamese (among other Asian) cuisines. However, such lauding is often in the context of how the territory with a general epicenter of I-85 and Pleasant Hill Road is too often overlooked.
least 20 different courses as their preference here. The best dish just may be the next one your order.
HONG KONG CAFE Notwithstanding changing ownerships, boiled fish is surrounded by other tremendous options a few doors down from H-Mart. In forenamed plaza, an Asian restaurant’s precondition for continuance is to yield top-notch cuisine and HKC obliges. Hong Kong style chili king shrimp is another beloved choice.
Masterpiece resting well OTP Buford Highway, is a perennial entrant in Atlanta Magazine’s Top 75. When ScoopOTP.com MAMA’S KITCHEN broke the bombshell that Berkeley Lake’s aforementioned glorious eating Sisters Michelle Liu and Karen house will be resettling to Johns Wang secured dazzling notoriety Creek, it solidified said tract as with ITP’s La Mei Zi. This a dining target. Masterpiece YOU'LL HAVE Taiwanese standout has would become at least the fifth humble creature environs TO CHECK OUT top-echelon restaurant all in the back of H-Mart’s THIS AMAZING within 1.1 miles of each other food court, but patrons will along Medlock Bridge’s “Asian ASIAN lust over three cup chicken, Alley” amidst Pleasant Hill and scallion pancakes, or any of the Abbotts Bridge Road. dishes with homemade noodles. My close-to-the-vest when it The intel on the growing directory: comes to dining son, delighted in their chicken noodle soup. MASTERPIECE The moment this preeminent spot’s transfer boosts the radius to a Fab Five (and developing?) is unclear. Internationally recognized chef/owner Rui Liu has a menu deep in quantity and quality. Cumin mutton and acclaimed fried eggplant are high atop my list of requisite orders. But having huddled with fellow food snobs, I can reassure that 25 devotees may present at
GREAT SICHUAN “Mom and pop” may be hackneyed, but pertinent here. Though boiled fish is a dish I’ve relished at many places, Great Sichuan cooks other proteins adroitly in said dish. The boiled pork was among the best items I’ve ingested this year and I could devour another lamb casserole right now.
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LA MEKONG VIETNAMESE DECEMBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
The number of pho options in Current Hubville has elevated considerably in recent years. La Mekong was generating such out in this area before just about anyone and they still do it as well as the new kids on the block. But there are other creditable dishes here as well. 24.7 Wall St. bestowed Johns Creek as the richest city in Georgia. With a large Asian population, hopefully the outgrowth of Johns Creek as a bastion of such cuisine is barely in its genesis. l
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COME COZY, DINE OUT By Danielle Purdie Roswell, GA – Visit Roswell, the Roswell convention and visitors bureau, announces the launch of its new campaign to encourage continued outside dining throughout the colder months: Come Cozy. Dine Out. In an effort to continue to promote outside dining spaces, many local restaurants have invested in additional outdoor heaters, tenting and hardscaping, to include fire pits, chimneys and chimineas. Come Cozy. Dine Out is a promotional campaign, sponsored by Visit Roswell, to encourage the continued support of the many dining establishments in the area which have made those investments and improvements. Of concern to many of Visit Roswell’s partners is the fear that the combination of colder temperatures and the continuation of COVID-19 will push patrons to decrease their visitation to local establishments. However, many local partners still offer plenty of space to spread out and enjoy meals if they come prepared by layering up.
Owner of Roswell’s Table & Main and Osteria Mattone, Ryan Pernice, says, “Restaurants invested in many more heaters to keep you comfortable while dining outside. We’re lucky to live in Georgia, where you can enjoy out outdoor spaces year-round by throwing on a jacket before you head out.” Individual restaurants are making their own investments, and we encourage our residents and visitors to contact restaurants of interest to learn more about efforts taken to comfortably accommodate diners. To find a comprehensive list of local Roswell restaurants, please visit www. visitroswellga.com and follow along on social media as Visit Roswell promotes the new campaign. ### Visit Roswell incorporates targeted advertising and marketing programs with aggressive sales and public relations efforts to build the image of Roswell as a destination and increase visitation. The bureau provides leadership for the tourism & hospitality industry in Roswell.
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NOW SERVING UP DELICIOUS GOODS IN ROSWELL AND BEYOND By Malika Bowling Good news for North Fulton and Forsyth residents, you do not have to drive too far to experience FUNtastic food trucks. Here are a few serving up different foods sure to tickle your taste buds.
FROM THE EARTH BREWING From the Earth Brewing opening three years ago in Roswell and in no time became a local favorite. They were even named a USA Today 10 Best reader’s choice for best Brewpub. The restaurant and tap room host events and is popular for both brunch and dinner. IPA lovers will appreciate the three different styles of IPA available Goin out West Can’t Find My Way Home (Double IPA) Porch Song (New England IPA) However, seasonal ales like the Monster Mash (Pumpkin spice) and the Eat a Peach (Weisse) are a bit easier to drink for those who prefer them. But it is not all about beer, of course at From the Earth. Food is an important
aspect of their business. Tim Stevens, founder, grew up in the restaurant business and worked as General Manager for one of the Buckhead Life Group restaurants. It was there he met renowned chef, Kevin Rathbun, also an investor in FTE. With the three-year anniversary of the brewery and restaurant around the corner, Tim decided a food truck is a perfect way to expand the business. They love serving the Roswell and North Fulton community and have chosen and menu the expertly compliments their brews with items like Brussels with Blue Cheese, Meatballs, Pretzel bites with beer cheese sauce, Meatballs and of course the beloved double stack.
Q’PASO LATIN GRUB If the incredible food is not enough to get you to visit the Q’Paso food truck, then the backstory will! The chef, Kazeka Muniz, hails from Venezuela. But his calling was not always food and cooking. His career led him to be an Olympic coach, living all over the world. But in a way, it prepared him for his second career as a chef. He sampled cuisine as he traveled, gathering inspiration from the variety of places he lived.
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CANNOT MISS FOOD TRUCKS
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food & drink Atlanta was not his first stop when he decided to put down roots. It was Denver that the Q’Paso food truck was born. Lines would form for blocks for the food and it was sold out daily. Opening right in the midst of the pandemic, a brick and mortar store is hard to attract new customers, so the food truck has been revived. Find them all over Atlanta and follow them on Instagram. Between Arepas, tacos and their delicious Cuban sandwich and their cheese sticks, you will no doubt have a difficult time choosing what to get. The answer is to get everything and share with friends. They make all their dough in house every day! Catch one of these amazing food trucks in the North Atlanta area - you will not be sorry! l Malika Bowling is editor at Roamilicious.com and the author of Food Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta. She’s been featured on HGTV and the Huffington Post. She has been a contributing writer to USA Today, Beer Connoisseur and Chowhound to name a few. She loves hiking, exotic travels, and Negronis. You can find her on social media: Facebook/Twitter @MalikaBowling and on Instagram @roamilicious.
LOCAL
BrewPub
with
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THE HOME OF GOOD TASTE While the holidays look a little different this year, we are working hard to create a safe, welcoming environment for our guests. We are taking reservations for your small group gatherings this holiday season. Visit our website to book or call 770.910.9799. Gift cards are available with an added value of 20% on $100 or more*.
Hours of Operation Monday: Closed Tuesday - Thursday: 11:30am - 9pm Friday - Saturday: 11:30am - 10pm Sunday: 11:30am - 9pm ftebrewing.com
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Angie, Sales Director, and her mom Kathy
Our resort-style community in Alpharetta was designed to provide comfortable living and enjoyment every day. While Inspired Living will never be the home that was left behind, we hope that you or your loved one will find comfort, ease, and happiness in our community.
CALL US TODAY FOR A TOUR! (770) 629-8431
INSPIRED LIVING AT ALPHARETTA Independent Living, Assisted Living, & Memory Care 11450 Morris Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005 Learn More at inspiredliving.care
Resort Style Living Licensed Oversight 24/7 Nutritious Chef-Prepared Meals All Day Restaurant Dining Onsite + Offsite Events Dedicated Programming Daily Housekeeping & Maintenance
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We Take Care of Moms & Dads
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life at 50+
Glad Tidings and Good Wishes! This Holiday Season
Let’s give our patronage to SMALL businesses locally and on the Internet by Di Chapman Come on. Let’s just do it. I bet you know someone who has a small business whose heart and soul have created a way to sell products that’ll make somebody happy this season. Ladies, it’s time to get off your bootalicious behinds, and gentlemen, your manly keisters, and stop clicking on that mega retailer site. Lest I sound like a Neanderthal’s girlfriend, I know that most of our local merchants do indeed have an Internet presence. If you can’t make it into their establishments because of COVID concerns, limited time, or mobility, become a patron of their sites and buy the goodies! The small guy and girl online have monstrous competition. They’ve got guts. Let’s shake their hands and give them our dollars. Honestly, does Mr. Amazon really need our bucks? So, giddy up on downtown. I dare you to ride or walk away empty-handed. Need a gift for a gourmand? Let your mouth water over awesome options. Need delectable’ s for desserts? I have fantasized about many choices. Wines and brews? Seriously? A new outfit? Ladies there are styles to try and fabrics to touch. Go! Buy!! Let’s share the local love!
Di and friend Verona enjoy GottaSoul activewear for women of all ages.
Small businesses have always been the backbone of America. Call me old-fashioned but my family history is full of them. In my case, the merchants were my Grandpa Chapman, my dad’s father; and my mother’s father Grandpa Skjerven. Both became merchants in
Park River, North Dakota, a (really) small town supporting farmers close to Canada. Want to hear the wonderful Midwestern/Canadian brogue sometime? I can bring it.) Both came from immigrant families, Grandpa Skjerven’s from Norway, and Grandpa Chapman’s off the boat from England. His father-in-law, a German, became an Auctioneer. No wonder I have such a big mouth. Grandpa Chapman began an insurance agency in North Dakota, and while maintaining that business, started The Outlaw (Seriously?) fine men’s clothing store on Main Street in 1933. Grandpa Skjerven invented useful machinery and repaired literally anything brought to “Skjerven’s Garage.” He wore shop overalls and had the hands of a machinist. But the merchant in him also sold Chrysler and Dodge Cars. Guess who got her license in a Dodge Dart? My Auntie Ruth, an Icelander on Mom’s side who lived in Concrete, North Dakota, (God knows nobody on earth has heard of Concrete.) owned a small “staples” store in the tiny town. I’ll be doggoned if Concrete, North Dakota didn’t become a Minuteman Missile silo site circa 1964, and Park River became surrounded by some of the150 armed underground missile silos installed in the state. What? Imagine if those babies had blasted off! I have friends whose small businesses have been affected by COVID, ultra-large online retailers, and both. Every story is different, but they all dream of building something customer-focused and bringing happiness to others.
life at 50+
Their business model was Internet plus Pop-up retail, and their merchandise grew beyond leggings. Cheryl added more fit wear, fashion, active and outer wear, and for Popups, brought along a fitting room to gyms, church events, yoga studios and fairs. She quickly became a company fashion consultant. Their business achieved 50% volume pop-up retail and 50% Internet. Cheryl’s favorite thing? Enjoying her customers. But COVID has ravaged Pop-up businesses and Internet traffic has slowed. “We have a new normal. We don’t know what next year will
bring... our next products and strategies. But we do know we’ll offer excellent one-on-one service, the kind the big guys really can’t duplicate.” COVID has created new avenues of growth for some. Melissa McKinney is one. When shutdowns hit, this gym-based fitness pro decided that socially distanced outdoor classes were the perfect solution to teaching and training again. She started in March with clients on a tennis court and driveway, and now instructs additional outdoor clients with neighborhood classes. Ladies, we are the BEST at word of mouth! She has gone back into socially distanced classroom settings as well but is ready to expand her own personal training clients, COVID-consciously. Mary Seffrin is another who offered a fashion stylist business that allowed her to work closely with clients. It, too, was a hybrid, both Internet and in person. “I enjoy the social interac-
tion of working with women, helping them choose clothing and accessories they’ll love.” COVID again determined the fate of her business as it had to swiftly become solely Internet. “I couldn’t see myself as strictly an online service. I love in-person interaction and the feel of fabrics, jewelry, and handbags. For me, the customer interaction and clothing selection process led me to go to work in a traditional store location.” Long before shopping was done sitting on our blessed assurances, it was exciting, strolling in and out of small business main street shops. I still like it that way, and it sounds like the goals of new merchants agree. On GOTTASOUL.COM I lusted over the spectacular leggings for fashion and/or workouts, most with serious tummy control. God bless them. The tops and jackets work out or go out. Add my favorite boots and mask (she’s got ‘em), and I’ll strut. If
Live Life With Zest…
at Any Age
You don’t have to be young to enjoy life! At St. George Village, we believe in active engagement at every stage of life. From our extensive slate of services and amenities to our full schedule of activities and events that nurture body, mind and spirit, you’ll experience an environment that fosters relationships and connections, along with a whole lot of fun! And, as a Life Plan community, we offer a secure plan for your future. Find out how you can experience an enriching and confident retirement at St. George Village. Call Dawn at (678) 987-0409 for more information. Roswell’s first senior living Life Plan retirement community 11350 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 987-0410 | stgeorgevillage.org
Cheryl’s husband said, “Let there be leggings,” there are millions of other men clanking their beer mugs to it this very moment. And Melissa, it’s simple: SOS! My chicken wings are out of control! Quelle horror! (Artistic license, Francophiles!) Mary, I trust you can show me the right sleeve for the coverup of the “chicken wing wave” when I see all my friends out shopping - right here, right in town. Blessings and Prosperity to you all this year! Shop on! l Di Chapman is an inspirational author and speaker, and a branding consultant. Di’s latest book is Rekindle Your Purpose: Break through your disappointments, discouragements, and detours to resurrect your purpose and live it!
DECEMBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
Take GottaSoul.com, a site started three years ago by Cheryl Colker Tracy and her family. It began as her husband’s idea. “Let’s start a business that sells women’s leggings!” Well, butter my grits. I like him.
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CANS GIVING TREE SUPPORTING THE DRAKE HOUSE by Tara Gary
O
wning a business has been a challenge to many this year. Owning several local restaurants and acquiring an additional one has kept a local family extremely busy but not too busy to give back to the community they serve. The Chieco Family owns Flatlands Bourbon and Bayou, Mercantile Social, and The Southern Porch on Main all located in the lovely and ever popular downtown Alpharetta recently purchased the 12-year-old CANS Taqueria in downtown Milton. Jodi collaborated with Daniel Shearer, CANS general manager and Susan from the Rotary club establish a Giving Tree at the newly acquired CANS Taqueria. I sat down with Jodi to find out why she would literally add more to her plate especially during this challenging time.
graciously match donations up to the total amount of $4000. “I wish we could do more, but the uncertainty of COVID still lingers”, Jodi added. Contributions to the Giving Tree at CANS Taqueria will be accepted from November 20th through December 17th and will benefit the Drake House. The Drake House provides housing and education programs for homeless single mother’s in the North Metro Atlanta. As I mentioned, the Chieco family recently took over the whimsical CANS Taqueria in downtown Milton. My friends and I love walking there and rewarding ourselves with a margarita for starters. I could not help but ask Jodi what changes we ADDED HEATERS could expect to see at CANS. She ADDITIONAL TENTING mentioned a ceviche and oyster bar, a SPACE TO SPREAD fresh made tortilla station, a phenomenal new bar menu, and live enterOUTDOOR FIREPLACES & tainment as among a few new and exciting changes we can look forward Support local restaurants! Layer up and to. enjoy cooler temps while you dine out in Roswell. What a great way to support the VisitRoswellGA.com/eat-drink community and your appetite? By dining at CANS, you will support a local business and its employees, you can partake in the Giving Tree to support a local charity and you will delight your tastebuds with the new menu options. It seems too easy to me. Get some of your
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As a result of the pandemic and like many businesses, mid-March the restaurants were forced to close. This devasted them financially as well as emotionally. Jodi told me that over the many years the staff at each restaurant had become a part of her family and it was imperative to ensure that everyone within the family could survive. “We pulled together and managed to get through it.” she said. When I asked her the importance of community support in relation to local businesses she replied, “The community support is EVERYTHING… without them we cannot exist.” “We have the best customers in the world!”. Jodi went on to say how grateful she is to the outpouring support from the community this past year. They stood by us so strong…they came in and bought gift cards and were very generous with gratuity to our staff.” Feeling the need to give back and realizing charitable organizations had been struggling this year as well, Chieco family decided to host a “Giving Tree”. A Giving Tree is a tree decorated with ornaments representing various amounts of donations. The Giving Tree at CANS will have ornaments in $2, $5, $10, $50, and $100 increments available. Patrons can choose an ornament and contribute that amount. CANS will
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holiday shopping done while strolling through the wonderful and locally owned shops in downtown Milton and reward yourself afterwards with lunch or dinner at the newly owned CANS Taqueria. CANS Taqueria 12635 Crabapple Rd. Milton, GA 30004-5800 (770)663-0908 Hours: Monday- Saturday 11:30am- 9:00pm Sundays 11:30am- 8:00pm You certainly don’t have to convince me to partake in one of the fabulous hand crafted cocktails at Mercantile Social with a fantastically decorated Christmas theme, or the hearty gumbo at Flatlands, or the honey pecan drizzled chicken and waffles at The Southern Porch. I am there and you should be as well. When you’re contemplating what to purchase for anyone on your list consider a gift card to anyone of these fabulous locally owned restaurants. While you are there enjoy the scrumptious food, delightful drinks, and don’t forget to donate to one of the Giving Trees. Happy Holidays! l
DECEMBER 2020 RULES OF ENGAGEMENT: 1. Please do not forget your patience. 2. As noted on my business card, pre-order as soon as possible. 3. Referring to #2, most of you know, pre-orders go thru the roof, the sooner you place a pre-order the better. Last year I had to cut certain days off a week or two before, that’s how crazy it gets. MITCH HAS SUSPENDED LUNCH DUE TO STAFFING CHALLENGES, PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.
4. I cannot reiterate enough times to everyone, pre-order clients have a priority over non pre-order clients. I have on a regular basis individuals mostly, that get butt hurt since they have to wait since they did not pre-order. Then they yell, scream, and cuss. Not acceptable at all. Don’t be that person.
SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS Pre-Order Pick Up Only December -- 16 Wed, 17 Thur, 18 Fri, 19 Sat, 22Tues, 23 Wed, and 24 Thur I am not officially open for non pre order clients. If you show up I will do the best I can to take care of you, you may have to wait a couple of hours, so don’t get all butt hurt since you did you did not pre-order. Closed December 25 Fri, and 26 Sat Open regular hours for the week of New Year. (Dec30 Wed thru Jan 2 Sat)
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