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HE AL TH Pa SE ge C 17 TIO N

AUGUST 2017

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NEW SCHOOL YEAR PRESENTS OPPORTUNITY FOR CHANGE PAGE 32 HEALTH p 20

ARTS p 14

THE LIFE AQUATIC

EARTH, WIND & FIRE

COMMUNITY p16

FOOD p26

SOLAR ECLIPSE EXPERIENCE

NO MONKEYING AROUND HERE

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PUBLISHERS

Tripp Liles tripp@thecurrenthub.com

Mark Penstone mark@thecurrenthub.com

Carrie Kutney Art Director carrie@thecurrentplus.com

Tricia Morris (Social Chick) tricia@thecurrenthub.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Frank Mack Di Chapman Jessica Diamond Spalding Negron Fred Mills Geri Laufer Beth Nitschke Send submissions & questions: events@thecurrentplus.com Main Phone Number 770-810-5943

Our Mission: The CurrentHub aspires to communicate in a way thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s useful, engaging, enjoyable, and unique. We strive to reflect the full range of what the area has to offer, also advocating positions that strengthen unity and continuity. We desire to create and maintain a challenging, enjoyable and caring work environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Our rewards are informed, educated readers, very satisfied advertisers, happy employees and profitable growth. The CurrentHub is published monthly. Presort standard postage paid at Atlanta, GA. Postmaster send changes to Current Communications, 1014 Canton St., Roswell, GA 30075 Publisher has the privilege to reject any advertising. Advertiser is responsible for full content of advertisements provided and are responsible for any claims made therein. thecurrenthub.com

Currentchoices The Month in Preview AUGUST 2017

>>HAVE A TOP HAT?

>>YUUUM

Gala Cabaret Fundraiser

Taste of Johns Creek

August 19 Taste of Johns Creek is returning to appease the foodie in you! You will be able to sample more than 20 local restaurants from $1 to $4 on the campus of Chattahoochee High School. There will be an Art Walk with handmade items from local artisans, live acoustic music, local entertainment, kid’s activities, Puppet Show featuring Peter Hart, Master Puppeteer, and some of the best food the Johns Creek area has to offer at this exciting family event. Just make sure you bring your appetite! Chattahoochee High School is located at 5230 Taylor Road in Johns Creek and takes place from 4–9p.m.

August 19 Georgia Ensemble Theatre (GET), North Fulton’s only professional theatre company, will begin its 25th Silver Anniversary Season with a special Gala Cabaret Fundraiser on August 19th, 2017. This event promises to be the party of the year and will take place at the beautiful, newly-remodeled Metropolitan Club, 5895 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005. In celebration of such a milestone year, the theatre’s annual fundraising event takes on a new cabaret format, featuring songs and performances from favorite musicals over the past 25 years plus even a few from upcoming productions. The show will be directed by Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s Associate Artistic Director Alan Kilpatrick and features some of GET’s most beloved performers. In addition, a special appearance by local jazz and big band star Joe Gransden is sure to be a great cap to an exciting night. Call GET at 770-641-1260 or click www.SilverGala.auction-bid.org

>>HAPPY BIRTHDAY

August 13

Table & Main Anniversary

Table & Main was one of the frontrunners putting Roswell’s Canton Street on the culinary map. That was six years ago and now you can celebrate their birthday with a big bang. Join Table & Main in their back parking lot on Aug. 13 for a free Backyard Party celebrating this momentous occasion from 4-10 p.m. Guests will enjoy live music and, for a $25 ticket, can enjoy all-you-can-eat Low Country Boil prepared by their Chef Woolery Back, and Meating Street BBQ’s Brian Keenan. Table & Main is located at 1028 Canton St. in Roswell.

Currentchoices

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

>>BOOM! >>SOMETHING FUN IS BREWING

Jekyll Brewing 4th Anniversary

August 12

>>SEE THE FUTURE

Mars Rover at North Point Mall

August 12 A NASA Mars rover concept vehicle akin to something out of the caped crusader’s universe is embarking on an educational tour this month aimed to inspire the public about potential astronaut missions on the Red Planet. The 5,000-pound solar and battery-powered vehicle will be on display in Alpharetta at North Point Mall. It is made of aluminum ad carbon-fiber and can split in two pieces, with one half being a laboratory and the other being used for scouting purposes. The mall is located at 1000 North Point Circle in Alpharetta. The rover will be located between the Sears and JCPenney locations from 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

The first brewery in the Deep South was founded on Jekyll Island in 1738 and today Jekyll Brewing is proud to be the first brewery located in Alpharetta. The brewery is approaching its 4th year and they invite you to celebrate on Aug. 12. They will have food, beer, live music, games and all kinds of other fun. Additionally, they will feature special beers coming from their brewmaster, Josh Rachel. Jekyll Brewing is located at 2855 Marconi Drive in Alpharetta.

Artillery Demonstrations

August 13 Every seen a Civil War cannon in action? Didn’t think so. Now you can remedy that hole in your life. Artillery (cannon) demonstrations at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park show visitors the steps taken to fire cannons during the American Civil War. Each program lasts approximately 30-40 minutes and includes and explanation of the role of artillery during the Atlanta Campaign and at the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. Artillerists explain the steps of firing a cannon, explaining the role of each person working the cannon. Afterwards, the process is performed in real time and the cannon is fired. The program is free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to maintain close control of their pets during firing, as it can be loud, and please prepare small children for the sudden burst of sound. Event runs from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park located at 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr. in Kennesaw.

>>LEGENDS LIVE

August 19 Earth, Wind & Fire is one of the most innovative and influential contemporary music forces of the 20th century and now you can see them live. They are touring with Chic featuring Nile Rodgers for their 2054 Tour, which will feature a special guest DJ and a specialized seating configuration toward the front of the stage where seats will have additional space between them to encourage audiences to dance the night away. ¶ “There was a time when we could only dream of ‘seeing’ Earth, Wind & Fire live, now we get the honor of sharing the stage together,” Rodgers said in a statement. “Get your feet ready for a deluge of hits.” ¶ With multiple #1 hit singles between Earth, Wind & Fire and CHIC ft. Nile Rodgers, 2054 The Tour will feature non-stop entertainment from two of America’s most legendary musical groups. Most recently, Nile Rodgers was honored with an Award for Musical Excellence from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Earth, Wind & Fire was inducted in 2000. Concert is at Verizon Amphitheater in Alpharetta. For tickets visit verizonwireless.amphitheaterencorepark.com.

>>CRANK IT OUT!

Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’

August 27

MORE EVENTS: www.TheCurrentHub.com

Grab your family and neighbors for an afternoon of wholesome family fun. Come sample over 100 flavors of homemade ice cream made by dedicated community volunteer ice cream crankers. Proceeds from the event go to The Drake House, which provides short-term crisis housing, education and empowerment programs for homeless single mothers and their children in North Metro Atlanta, designed to provide stability for the children and assist the family in working toward self-sufficiency. For tickets and more info visit www.missmarysicecream.org.

>>ROCKIN’ RIVER

Riverside Sounds Concerts

September 2

The Riverside Sounds Concert Series is a fantastic way to spend a Saturday evening along the beautiful Chattahoochee River. These free concerts run from 7–9 p.m. at Riverside Park in Roswell. In September they feature Lera Lynn a singer-songwriter, co-producer, and multi-instrumentalist who embellishes her Americana roots with a mix of spacey, left-of-center rock and experimental pop-noire. Riverside Park is located at 575 Riverside Road in Roswell. For more information or to learn more about the artists, visit roswellriversidesounds.com.

5 AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

Earth, Wind & Fire in concert

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

COOL SIGHTS HIGHLIGHT AUGUST EVENTS

METRO EVENTS ( By Tripp Liles

On August 21 we will have a unique opportunity to see a total solar eclipse. The Great American Eclipse actually begins on the west coast around 1:15 p.m. our time and will cut a 60-milewide path across the country ending in South Carolina around 2:45 p.m. Here in the Atlanta area, our partial eclipse will begin at around 2:30 p.m. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, we will have an eclipse time of two and a half minutes and it will be approximately 95% obscuration, which means we’ll see about 5% of the sun’s surface. If you want to get the full blackout effect, a trip north is in order. There are a multitude of events and activities scheduled in the mountains where there will be a total eclipse. According to multiple sources the best spot for viewing within a reasonable drive is up in the Great Smoky Mountains. That would be about a 3hour drive but well worth it. The

largest cities to have total eclipse are Columbia, SC and Nashville, TN, each being a 3-4 hour drive. Needless to say last minute plans would be useless as many hotels are already booked and one could assume trafﬁc in some places is going to be… bad. Local schools are also preparing, as both Cobb and Fulton Co. schools will be holding kids until the eclipse has passed. This will not, however, be the only time you get to witness an event like this. In April of 2024, we’ll have another total eclipse that runs from Texas up through Michigan… so if you miss this one there is just a 7-year wait. Beyond seeing the wonders of an eclipse there are other great events happening in August, because with the kids back in school I know we’ve got nothing but time on our hands. Perhaps we’ll look at these events as a way to forget about school. Speaking of which, the folks at the Chattahoochee Nature Center are doing some cool stuff around the eclipse, see page 16. Events continues on p 12

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

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same $525,550 account value at age sixty, they will need to save over $12,500 annually for 20 years (earning the same 7.2% return). This is five times the amount of someone in their twenties. Professional Tip—if you can afford to, gift your child the amount they earned this summer and contribute it into a Roth IRA for their benefit (and each year hereafter ideally). In 40 years they will be extremely grateful, and you will have built an incredible legacy. At Odyssey, we emphasize the value of starting early. We have a NexGen program that provides financial education, planning advice, and investment solutions for our clients’ adult children. Good money decisions, including starting early, can make a world of difference for your child’s personal finances. Life’s Meaningful Conversations about Money By Robert Fezza and Steve Siders a journey—navigate it wisely! Save $2,500 The saying, “it’s never too early to begin saving for Robert Fezza, CFP® and retirement,” holds true at any age, even for kids in Steve Siders, CFP® own Account Value One-Time Only Annually high school. In fact, if your teen has a summer or Odyssey Personal After 10 years = $5,000 = $34,869 part-time job, now is a great time to talk to them Financial Advisors, 500 After 20 years = $10,000 = $104,755 about starting an IRA; preferably a Roth IRA. Teens Sun Valley Drive, Suite A-6, are poised to take full advantage of the power of After 30 years = $20,000 = $244,822 Roswell, GA. Their firm compounding over time. Starting early can have a specializes in working with people who are serious After 40 years = $40,000 = $525,550 significant impact on the level of savings they can acabout making progress towards their financial cumulate over their working years. Now that’s a compelling reason to begin saving goals. Odyssey manages portfolios greater than In addition, investing in general can be a valuable early in life! $250,000. 770-992-4444, www.odysseypfa.com. tool for educating young people on the value of Here’s another—let’s assume a 40-year-old has not Securities offered through Cetera Financial money and how it grows, including the concepts started saving for retirement. For them to achieve the Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

MONEY

START (REALLY) EARLY

behind interest, earnings, compounding and even taxes. The contributions made to a Roth IRA grow tax free (no income tax ever). It’s simply amazing—here is an example to show your teenager that shows the power of compounding. By using the Rule of 72 (a simpliﬁed way to estimate how long an investment will take to double in value at a ﬁxed annual rate of return) we can create a few examples. If we assume an investment will grow at 7.2%, the value should double in 10 years (72 divided by 7.2% = 10 years). If we assume a one-time investment today of $2,500 the graphic represents how much that $2,500 can grow over 10, 20, up to 40 years. But if you really want to wow your teenager, show them how much saving $2,500 annually will grow to using the same 7.2% return.

GENERATIONAL TRENDS IN HOME BUYING By Kirsten Ricci Trends are big in my business and over the past few years the biggest trend in home buying has been from the Millennial generation, those aged 36 and under. According to the National Association of Realtors, the largest percentage of homebuyers in the U.S. is in this category and they are far more traditional than you think. In a larger Roswell or Downtown Alpharetta, our context, this is suburbs offer plenty to someone under regular the age of 40 or any age for that matter. generational On that note let’s not forget the other change. We go demographics. The Generation Xers through this every 20 years or so when a (37-51) are now entering their peak group like the baby boomers age out of earning years, represent the highest the market and a new group comes to incomes, and are the second largest dethe fore. This year, however, we are see- mographic in home buying at 28%. ing the effects of a more robust They are already established in careers, economy with a new group of young require the largest space, and list quality professionals entering the market. schools and short commutes being at According to predictions we will have the top of priorities. more than half of homebuyers as first The baby boomers are generally brotime owners in 2017. That represents ken into two categories. The younger more than a 15% jump from 2016. At boomers, aged 52 to 61 and the mature one point, there were fears that boomers, aged 62 to 70. The younger millennials did not view home set represents nearly 16% of ownership the way previous generations homebuyers, and they have a unique set have but we now see them emerging of requirements. Studies show that into the market. somewhere between the ages of 50-65 Most of these buyers, however, face a people will often upsize. They may have shortage of homes on the market, espe- a millennial still at home, while at the cially in our area. When they can find same time taking care of aging parents. the right home, these younger buyers The mature boomers, however, find that are concerned with many of the same if possible, it is the most economical to aspects of previous generations. They age at home, rather than moving out of struggle with the down payment, overall neighborhoods. They move the farthest affordability, safety, privacy… sound distance and almost always desire a familiar? smaller home as they move into It’s important to also note this. While retirement. the media generally focuses on how the No matter what category you fit into, millennial’s are different from previous it’s important to remember we have all generations, in home buying, they are the bases covered here in the North following a rather well worn path… to Metro area of Atlanta. This area has right here in the suburbs. That’s right, been highly desirable for years and the even the younger set see value outside of demand is only growing no matter the urban life. The suburbs, number one on age group. the millennial list, offer larger homes Kirsten Ricci is a Roswell resident but not McMansions, spacious yards, and a Berkshire Hathaway Agent who and more security, all which score high specializes in residential real estate in on their must haves. When you couple the north metro Atlanta area. She can be that with a more dynamic lifestyle reached at 678-472-3832, developing in areas like Historic kirsten@roswellrealty.net. ❍

11 AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

REAL ESTATE (

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

METRO EVENTS ( Continued from page 6

Bob Baldwin performs at Callanwold on August 11. There is no better way to wash away the troubles of life than listening to some great jazz. The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center offers a “Jazz on the Lawn” series lineup of Atlanta’s finest jazz treasures performing a mix of classic and contemporary jazz, swing, salsa, fusion, smooth and blues, in a perfect setting for summer outdoor concerts. This is a great way to spend time with friends, unwind, and listen to an evening of live music. You are invited to bring a blanket and a picnic and

Lionel Richie in concert Aug. 13. enjoy these concerts surrounded by the natural beauty of the Callanwolde Amphitheater. On August 11 they feature Bob Baldwin one of the most ubiquitous and ingenious chameleons of contemporary jazz— both in his own projects and those he has endeavored upon for others. Callanwolde is located at 980 Briarcliff Road in Atlanta, for more info visit callanwolde.org. If jazz in the setting of nature isn’t doing it for you then how about reliving your romantic youth by seeing Lionel Richie perform at Infinite Energy Center on Aug.13. This 5time Grammy winner will hit the stage performing all of his hits with

Piedmont Park Arts Fest Aug. 19 & 20. special guest Mariah Carey. Should “Truly” be a great show… sorry had to say it. On the weekend of Aug. 19-20 there is the Piedmont Park Arts Festival. This event will feature up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalwork, glass blowers, jewelers, and crafters. The festival will also offer artist demonstrations, live acoustic music, an Emerging Artists Pavilion, a children’s play area, plus festival foods and beverages with healthy alternatives. For more info visit www.piedmontparkartsfestival.com. Atlanta’s favorite and most authentic German party is back.

German Bierfest on Aug. 26. Grab your lederhosen or not and head down to Woodruff Park on Aug. 26 in Atlanta for one of the best beer tasting events around. In its 14th year, the German Bierfest will serve up an incredible day of German beers, food, and music. Over the past years the festival has grown to become a favored ceremony, welcoming thousands of beer enthusiasts; featuring nearly 50 German beers in the one and only authentic, family-friendly German Bierfest in Atlanta. For more info visit www.germanbierfest.com. For more info on events and activities all around us visit our site at www.thecurrenthub.com.❍

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Pkwy.) is for you. On the weekend of Aug. ummer is still coming at us 11-12 they feature Toni Byd and Leonard MUSIC hot and heavy with the local Julian III. They will be performing the music scene keeping pace. songs of Bonnie Raitt and Lou Rawls; and will also perform duets made popular by In the coming issues we’ll have Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell, Pattie some good stuff and some young Austin/James Ingram, and more. local musicians with big plans. Now here’s the real deal. Legendary band Earth, Wind and Fire will be Plus we’ll shed some light on an performing at Verizon Amphitheatre on alternative legend that lives Aug. 19… you have to go. I’m not even amongst us. But ﬁrst, let’s get to going to waste the space telling you how By Tripp Liles who’s on stage in August, which is great these guys are. But if you can’t go, or want to enhance the experience then you will want to catch the Velvet Note’s highlighted by Earth, Wind & Fire at Verizon Amphitheatre.

STOP EVERYTHING… EARTH, WIND & FIRE IS COMING

Alpharetta is home to a couple of the hottest spots around. Matilda’s “Under The Pines” series is a great spot to catch some great acts and enjoy the outdoors. On the weekend of Aug. 11 and 12 they feature the bluegrass sounds of Honeywood and Hannah Zale doing the Americana pop thing. On the 19th they featuring touring act Farewell Angelina. Named after a haunting Bob Dylan song, Farewell Angelina is an all-female country group with four powerhouse vocalists, dynamic songwriters, and badass multi-instrumentalists. Their stellar blend of heart-stopping harmonies over blazing double violins and guitars has earned soaring praise far and wide. They have been touring across the country opening shows for the likes of Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion, Frankie Ballard, Jake Owen, Billy Currington, and Trace Adkins, to name a few. Their self-titled EP, produced by industry veteran Keith Stegall (Alan Jackson, Zac Brown, Darius Rucker) is digitally available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon. For more info visit www.matildasmusicvenue.com. If you’d rather chill out, literally, then the Velvet Note (4075 Old Milton

Earth, Wind and Fire tribute featuring The Ray Howard Band on the weekend of Sept. 1-3. Here’s your chance to get your jazz-funk-disco-soul groove on, accompanied by some of the hottest musicians around. Bandleader Ray Howard pulls out all of the stops in this weekend-long tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire— one of the most critically acclaimed bands of the twentieth century. Visit www.thevelvetnote.com. Last but certainly not least, I want to highlight a local singer/songwriter I’ve followed for several years, Nick Howrey. I ﬁrst saw Nick as a high school student perform on Roswell Square and knew this kid had something. Several years later, and he’s looking to head to Los Angeles this fall to continue his music journey. On Tuesday, Aug. 22 he will be performing a special show at the Velvet Note. This is a show with limited seating. If you would like to attend, send a text to 404-202-7799. Otherwise, you can catch Nick at Charlton’s Grill and Bar in Alpharetta on Saturdays and Sunday evenings. Great chance to see some local talent before he goes big. Check out his site at www.nickhowrey.com. ❍

FAREWELL ANGELINA

NICK HOWREY

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

SOLAR ECLIPSE PROVIDES UNIQUE SCIENCE LEARNING By Jon Copsey

August 21 hosts one very rare event—the solar eclipse. A total solar eclipse happens when the moon aligns just right between the Earth and the sun, blocking most of the sun from view. For Stephen Ramsden, this is signiﬁcant event. “To our knowledge this is the only place in the entire universe where this coincidence (a solar eclipse) is known to occur. Our sun will be exactly blocked by our moon, even though they are vastly different sizes and enormously different distances from us sentient beings here on Earth. “It’s a big deal,” he said. Ramsden is director of the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project, the largest and oldest solar astronomy outreach program in the world, he said. He and his team helps children in middle school around the world get interested in science. “We want to help them rediscover how wonderful the solar system and the universe around them is,” he said. This speciﬁc eclipse will be possible to see from just about anywhere in North America. According to NASA, will actually happen at 2:35:45 p.m. and last for less than three minutes. The last time a solar eclipse traversed most of the continental U.S. was nearly a century ago—1918. If you

miss the eclipse this time, don’t worry. The next one to cross the U.S.A. will come as early as 2024. Ramsden said he is excited to see the Aug. 21 eclipse. “A solar eclipse is the epitome of free science and I hope everyone gets a chance to view it,” he said. It should go without saying, do not look directly at the sun or the eclipse without special glasses or equipment, such as a pinhole projector. This equipment will likely be available at viewing parties or events around the country. While the eclipse will be visible from just about anywhere, one good local place to view it is at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. As a site dedicated to learning about the natural world

Credit: Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project The Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project teaches children around the world about astronomy and the sun.

around us, CNC knows that looking up at the sky is just as important as looking down at the ground. Sets of eclipse-viewing glasses will be handed out by Ramsden and the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project. For good activities as well as more on the science behind eclipses, visit

STARLAB

The Chattahoochee Nature Center will hold events the day before, and day of the solar eclipse.

Credit: Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project The solar eclipse on Aug. 21 will cross the entire U.S.A.

Sunday, Aug. 20, 1 p.m. (Two 30-minute sessions) Explore the round, portable celestial theater: STARLAB. This will be a special extended presentation of the CNC program where their naturalist will discuss the stars and the night sky, but also provide information on eclipses in preparation for the total solar eclipse traversing the United States the next day. In Georgia, only the northeast corner of the state will be able to observe a total eclipse of the sun. Ages 6+ (please note that the planetarium is in complete darkness).

eclipse2017.nasa.gov. The Chattahoochee Nature Center can be found at chattnaturecenter.org, or 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. For more about Stephen Ramsden and the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project, visit www.solarastronomy.org.❍

Solar Eclipse Viewing Monday, Aug. 21 Head out to CNC and catch a glimpse of the historic Solar Eclipse. Solar viewing glasses provided by Charlie Bates Astronomy Project.

“We want to help them rediscover how wonderful the solar system and the universe around them is”

Family Night Hike Saturday, Aug. 26, 8–10 p.m. Join CNC’s expert naturalists for a night hike through the forest. Explore the sounds and sights of the forest floor. On the hike, keep your eyes and ears open for the calls of owls and maybe even spot some bats swooping down to feed on insects. Your evening includes an animal encounter and a relaxing campfire. $12 General Public/$10 CNC Members. Register by Aug. 24 and save $2. All ages.

health&wellness

presented by WellStar North Fulton Hospital

KNOW YOUR HEART By Jon-Paul Croom, president, WellStar North Fulton Hospital

WellStar North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar July–August 2017 SUPPORT GROUPS Ostomy Support Group

If you own an automobile, you probably have it serviced regularly. The service center will check the fluid levels, change the oil, and replace filters. We consider this regular maintenance and budget this expense each year. But, while we do this for our car, we rarely do the same for our own bodies, particularly our hearts. For many people the first time they discover that they have a heart issue is when they experience a heart attack. Unfortunately, some suffer irreparable damage or die before they can get to an Emergency Department. There is a simple solution that could dramatically decrease the number of deaths each year: preventative care. Even if you are physically active, healthy, or young, you should consider a very inexpensive heart screening to assess you risk. For only $49, you can find out how healthy you are, or if there are things you can do that will allow you to live a longer and healthier life. WellStar North Fulton Hospital offers a quick, yet comprehensive screening called Know Your Heart. The assessment includes an EKG, blood work, blood pressure, and a 30-minute appointment with a WellStar cardiology provider. For small additional Take your engine in for a check-up. fee, you can also have a coronary calcium screening on our 128-Slice CT. This test will render a 3-D image of your heart and visually reveal any plaque that may be building up in your coronary arteries. If you are like me, you spend hundreds of dollars each year on your automobile. Take a fraction of that and have your own engine checked out. After all, you should be around much longer than your car! You can schedule your Know Your Heart assessment right now by calling 770-956-STAR (7827). ❍

Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Classroom C. This group is open to anyone who has or will have an ostomy and any friends, family or supporters. They do not meet in the summer but will resume September 19. Call John Dorso at 678-694-8726 to register or to obtain more information.

Breast Cancer Support Group First Thursday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Cope and connect with others who are facing the same struggles. Please call Sarah Bentley, RN, Oncology Services Manager, at 770-751-2556 for location and to register.

Stroke Support Group Last Wednesday of each month from 6:30 -7:30 p.m. ACE Dayroom. Please join Stroke survivors, caregivers, and families to share and support one another. The group is facilitated by the Stoke Program Coordinator and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. RSVP to Keisha C. Brown at 770-751-2631 or keisha.brown@wellstar.org

Look Good, Feel Better Wednesday, 9/13; 10 a.m.–Noon A cosmetologist will discuss how to care for skin and hair to combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Free make-up and skin care products are provided. Call 1-800-227-2345 for location and to register.

Epilepsy Support Group Third Wednesday of every month; 7-9 p.m. Classrooms A/B. People with epilepsy as well as their family and care-providers are invited to attend this support group. The meetings will provide time for attendees to share helpful information and resources from their own experiences. Please contact Tim for more information at 770-667-9363.

Lupus Support Group Third Sat. of every month, 11 a.m–1 p.m. Classroom C. Informal meetings to share experiences and learn from others. Guest speakers occasionally present and we also participate in some Lupus Foundation events. Contact Julie for more info 404-626-2394 or email at lupusgroup4roswell@gmail.com

diabetes self-management skills. Call Anna at 404-527-7180 for more information and to register.

Water Birth Thursdays 8/10, 8/24, 9/7, 9/21, 10/5, and 10/19 at 7 p.m. Registration required for couples desiring to learn about the option of a water birth delivery. Completion of the class is required to be considered for water birth at WNFH. $30.00 per couple

Maternity Tours Please join one of our Women’s Health nurses in the hospital atrium on alternating Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and Alzheimer’s Association Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a guided tour Caregiver Support Group of the Labor & Delivery suites, Mother/ Every Fourth Saturday, 10–11 a.m. Classroom C. Please join our monthly Baby Unit and the Neonatal ICU. WellStar North Fulton Hospital support group for caregivers and SPECIAL EVENTS family members of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or related disorders. The support group offers a Free Skin Cancer Screening Thursday, August 10 place to share information, support each other and learn about resources Appointments begin at 5:30 p.m. Free but registration required. in your community. Call Christine at Do you have a suspicious looking 404-786-3433 for more spot on your body? Wear loose information. clothing and have it checked by a dermatologist.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Babysitting Workshop Saturday, 8/12 and and 10/14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Teaches children ages 11–14 how to be responsible babysitters. Bring a doll or stuffed animal and a sack lunch and drink. $30.

American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR* Saturday 8/26/17 and 10/28 CPR course for the community. Adult and child CPR, 9 a.m.–Noon; $35 Adult, child and infant CPR, 9 a.m.–1p.m.; $45

Diabetes Self-Management Workshop Saturday, 8/12, 9/9, and 10/14 The Diabetes Association of Atlanta (DAA) offers classes at WellStar North Fulton Hospital to teach

Personal Safety/ Self-Defense Workshops for Kids Sunday August 20, 2017 K-5th session 1–3 p.m. and teen girl session 3:30–5:30 p.m. Join the child safety experts from Revved Up Kids for a two-hour workshop to teach your children how to recognize dangerous people, avoid unsafe situations, and escape attackers. These workshops include full-force self-defense tactics practice. For more information or to register, please call 678.526.3335 or visit www.revvedupkids.org/classcalendar

LifeSouth Blood Drive Friday, October 20; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Give blood, and help save up to three lives with just one donation. Walk- ins welcomed

HEALTH (

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

DEADLY SECRET Opioid use is killing our loved ones even resort to stealing them from their friends or family members. he medicine cabinets in Physicians commonly prescribe opioids or narcotics for short-term our homes are largely pain due to injury or illness as well as responsible for one of for patients with long-term painful the fastest growing causes of conditions such as cancer. Physicians are now curbing the death in the United States. recommendations for these pain Opioid addiction has reached relievers and when prescribing, limitepidemic proportions! Old ing use to three to seven days at the and young, rich and poor longest. New legislation will require physicians to review the Prescription alike can be affected. Ask Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) anyone. Almost everyone online for each patient before knows someone who has an prescribing these medications to them. addiction. A brother. A The Medical Association of Georgia neighbor’s high-schooler. Foundation launched a A colleague. communications plan (The Think Opioids include both illegal heroin About It Campaign) touting simple as well as opioid medications which steps to curb new addiction and can be prescribed by physicians, such access to these drugs. This is aimed at as hydrocodone, oxycodone, anyone with prescription pain morphine, methadone and fentanyl. medication: Once addicted to prescription 1. Take your medications only as narcotics, people are more likely to prescribed use heroin. We have seen a steady in2. Never share medications crease in heroin use in recent years 3. Store your medication safely because it is easier to obtain than a (children should not be able to prescription for a narcotic. access them) The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) says 144 people in 4. Properly dispose of unused the United States die of overdose medicine (mix pills with food deaths every day. The incidence of waste garbage; never ﬂush down traumas, such as car accidents, have toilet; use dropboxes) also increased due to opioid use. Georgia’s 9-1-1 Medical Amnesty Thirty-seven percent of opioid Law encourages the people who are overdose deaths are caused by with someone experiencing a drug medications which were prescribed overdose to call 9-1-1 by giving them by physicians to treat medical protections from being arrested. The conditions – the pill bottles in our caller and the victim cannot be own medicine cabinets. Patients who arrested, charged, or prosecuted for were prescribed the medications for small amounts of drugs, alcohol, or pain can become addicted even after drug paraphernalia if the evidence a few doses. Once addicted, these was obtained as a result of seeking people will many times get more from medical assistance. their family and friends if they can’t The law allows the general public get a new prescription. They may By Debi Dalton, M.D., WellStar

Georgia Overdose Prevention, a grassroots organization focused on saving lives of people experiencing opioid overdoses, is running a campaign to offer protection for people who call 9-1-1 for someone experiencing a drug or alcohol-related overdose. The caller and the victim cannot be arrested, charged, or prosecuted for small amounts of drugs, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia if the evidence was obtained as a result of seeking medical assistance. to obtain Naloxone, which reverses an opioid overdose. Georgia Overdose Prevention, a grassroots organization focused on saving lives of people experiencing opioid addiction and overdoses, distributes the medication to those who request it. Citing the CDC, the group’s leaders say Naloxone used by laypersons has helped reverse more than 26,463 overdoses between 1996 and 2014. The medicine is now available in user-friendly forms of an autoinjectors (like for Epi-Pen) and intra-nasal forms (a liquid squirted in the nose). Medication-assisted treatment programs can help you or your loved one stop using opioid medications and drugs. Many pharmacies and universities offer drop boxes to dispose of unused medications. The spike in opioid addiction and deaths is killing people we know and love. It doesn’t discriminate. The retiree next door and the ‘A’ student down the street are all at risk. The good news is we can all do something about it. Take medications exactly as prescribed. Don’t share prescriptions. Make your medicine cabinet hard to access and clean it out. If you know someone who is at risk, consider reaching out to Georgia Overdose Prevention for a Naloxone prescription today. As the group says, “If they’re still alive, there’s still hope.” For more information about Georgia’s 9-1-1 Medical Amnesty Law or to access Naloxone, visit www. georgiaoverdoseprevention.org. ❍

65 WELLSTAR PHYSICIANS NAMED TOP DOCTORS 8 North Fulton doctors were recognized

ellStar Health System has grown to become the largest health system in Georgia, offering world-class healthcare from some of the region’s most skilled physicians. With nearly 3,000 physicians and advanced practice professionals on its medical staff, WellStar physicians are driving innovation and patient-centered care. Recently, Atlanta Magazine recognized 65 of those WellStar physicians on its 2017 Top Doctors list. To be selected for the Top Doctor’s list, physicians were nominated by their peers and were featured in Atlanta Magazine’s health issue in July. “WellStar’s physicians are advancing healthcare through innovative treatments and compassionate care,” said John A. Brennan, M.D., executive vice president and chief clinical integration ofﬁcer of WellStar Health System. “Our physicians understand the importance of putting patients at the center of everything they do. With WellStar’s expanded network of physicians, we are better able to deliver high-quality healthcare to our communities.” The physicians selected this year came from a diverse background of specialties and many of them have been recognized on this list for multiple years:

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

DON’T RUN, CALL 9-1-1

Tariq Javed, M.D., Neurological Surgery Keith Jeffords, M.D., Paramount Plastic Surgery Chad Levitt, M.D., Radiation Oncology Drew Locandro, M.D., Northwest ENT & Allergy Center Charles Kaplan, M.D., Georgia Urology Robert A. Kelly, M.D., Resurgens Orthopaedics Richard W. King, Jr., M.D., HyOx Medical Treatment Center Harry Lightfoot, M.D., WellStar Surgical Specialists at Cobb Douglas W. Lundy, M.D., Resurgens Orthopaedics Ralph Lyons, M.D., Atlanta South Gastroenterology Barry D. Mangel, M.D., WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine Mark McCord, M.D., Radiation Oncology Rolf Meinhold, M.D., Meinhold Family Practice Daniel Miller, M.D., WellStar Thoracic Surgery Associates Eduardo Molinary, M.D., WellStar Pulmonary Medicine Jean E. Molinary, D.O., WellStar Medical Specialists Thomas Murphy, M.D., Quantum Radiology Muhamad Obideen, M.D., Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates Neal Osborn, M.D., Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates Steven Oweida, M.D., Vein Specialists of Northwest Georgia Shatul Parikh, M.D., Northwest ENT & Allergy Center Bryan Piedad, M.D., WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine Philip Ramsay, M.D., WellStar Medical Group Surgical Specialists of Atlanta Erich Randolph, M.D., Atlanta Oncology Associates Chris Andersen, M.D., WellStar Summit Surgical Michael Riley, M.D., WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine Ebon Bourne, M.D., WellStar Acworth Family Practice Randy F. Rizor, M.D., The Physicians Pain & Rehab Specialists George Brown, M.D., WellStar Medical Group Family Medicine Michael K. Schaufele, M.D., Pain Solutions Treatment Centers Carl Capelouto, M.D., Georgia Urology Raymond Schettino, M.D., North Fulton Ear, Nose & Throat Associates Thomas Chacko, M.D., WellStar Ear Nose & Throat Roy Schottenfeld, M.D., North Fulton Ear, Nose & Throat Associates Arun Chervu, M.D., Vascular Surgical Associates Sanjay Sharma, M.D., Southern Crescent Nephrology Jay Cinnamon, M.D., Quantum Radiology Elizabeth M. Street, M.D., Unified Women’s Care of Georgia Larry Clements, M.D., WellStar KenMar Pediatrics Jung Suh, M.D., Atlanta Gastroenterology William Cleveland, M.D., Southwest Atlanta Nephrology David Tanner, M.D., Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic Toni E. Coombs, M.D., WellStar Smyrna Primary Care Center Murphy Townsend, III, M.D., WellStar Urology William Cooper, M.D., WellStar Cardiovascular Surgery Janice M. Warner, M.D., Atlanta West Dermatology Tapan Daftari, M.D., Resurgens Orthopaedics Elizabeth Whitaker, M.D., Atlanta Face & Body Center Michael Dailey, M.D., Infectious Disease Services of Georgia W. Hamilton Williams, M.D., Radiation Oncology of Atlanta William Dowdell, M.D., WellStar Pulmonary Medicine Barry Zisholtz, M.D., Georgia Urology Amber Driskell, M.D., WellStar Internal Medicine John Zora, M.D., Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic Daniel Eller, M.D., Maternal Fetal Diagnostic Center Alan M. Zuckerman, M.D., Quantum Radiology Stanley M. Fineman, M.D., Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic These “Top Doctors” are part of a nearly 3,000-member David Gale, M.D., Pain Solutions Treatment Center medical staff at WellStar. The not-for-proﬁt health system’s Thomas E. Gearhard, M.D., WellStar Cobb Family Medicine physicians work closely with community members to deliver Sachin Goel, M.D., Gastroenterology Specialists of Georgia care that is both cutting-edge and patient-focused. Physicians David Hafner, M.D., Vascular Surgical Associates at WellStar also coordinate care between primary care Jeffrey Hines, M.D., WellStar Gynecologic Oncology physicians, specialists, hospitals and other services. For Edward Holliger, M.D., Resurgens Orthopaedics patients, this means more access to robust medical services at Angela Hudson, M.D., Women’s Healthcare Center of GA affordable costs. It’s all part of WellStar’s vision to deliver Jermaine Jackson, M.D., Piedmont Physicians Georgia Lung world-class healthcare. ❍

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

NEWS FROM WNFH Free Skin Cancer Screening Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. As with other diseases, it can be prevented by taking certain steps. Try to stay in the shade, cover up and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with and SPF of 15 or higher when outside. If you want to take it one step further, WellStar North Fulton Hospital is hosting a free skin cancer screening next Thursday August 10 at 5:30 p.m. To register call 770-751-2660. Registration is required and space is limited.

Reserve Your Spot in Line If you’re having a non-life threatening emergency, reserve your spot at the Emergency Department. You’ll be given a time to come in, so you can wait in the comfort of your own home. And when you arrive, the ED staff will be ready for you! To make a reservation, go to NorthFultonEmergency.com.

Pain & Spine Center Expansion As the demand for different ways to manage pain continue to grow, the Pain & Spine Center WellStar North Fulton Hospital is expanding. The expansion will provide patients with expanded infusion therapy, more waiting space, additional exam rooms and procedure expansion. By locating the source of the pain, the Pain & Spine center helps patients regain their lifestyle and reduce or eliminate pain. If you want to make an appointment, call 770-751-2719.

LET’S SOCIALIZE! Facebook.com/NorthFultonHospital Twitter handle: @NFultonHospital

HEALTH (

THE LIFE AQUATIC WellStar North Fulton Hospital becomes destination for water birth Lauren Kimbell appreciates the special birthing experience she’s had at WellStar North Fulton Hospital. Lauren and husband Daniel recently welcomed baby Judah to their family. He is their third child delivered at WellStar North Fulton, and just like his siblings, he was born in the water. “Water birth at North Fulton is great. You are in a hospital setting, the midwife is there… it’s the best of both worlds,” said Lauren, a chiropractor. “There’s a team environment and most importantly, they respect our choices and listen to what we think is was best for us.” For Linda Farrow, director of Women’s Health Services at WellStar North Fulton, listening to patients—and their families—while keeping mom and baby safe is precisely the key for success. “The biggest thing is we believe in safety and quality care. We always try to honor what the patients want, but our priority is to make sure when mom and baby leave the hospital they are happy and healthy,” said Farrow. Water birth, according to Farrow, is an option for norisk and low-risk mothers, who have not had any complications during pregnancy. Families that are considering this option are required to take a water birth class to learn about the process. Water birth is available in all six delivery rooms at WellStar North Fulton. Nurses, techs, physicians and midwives are trained to assist mothers and ensure quality care. “We really are a team and we all work together to give moms the best possible experience,” said Farrow. Under strict protocols, mothers are given the chance to labor and deliver in the tub, but sometimes plans need to be readjusted in order to protect mother and baby. Like family Lauren explained that in her case water birth helps her stay in control of her labor. While in the birth tub she is

able to focus, regain strength and keep calm. “I’ve never had birth on land. As the water birth goes, that moment is like a choir of angels singing,” she said. For the Women’s Health team it is very important to offer personalized care, not only to the mother, but to the family as well. “We really treat our patients like family, and we make sure that the mother’s partner or support person feels welcomed and participates in the process,” said Farrow. For Lauren, being able to experience child birth with her husband has always w been paramount. “The water birth nurses and midwives let him and I have privacy during birth. It is very well balanced and they respect our need to be alone,” she said. “It’s like they let you have a baby. They From left Annie age stand by in case you 4, Noah age 6, need them while Jordan age 8 and respecting the birth Judah just born. process,” added Daniel. Because of the high quality care and low cesarean section (C-section) rates, North Fulton is becoming known as a birthing destination. The hospital’s C-Section average for 2017 was a low of 13.1 percent. Avoiding an unnecessary C-section helps reduce recovery time, postsurgery complications and specialized care for babies sometimes needed when they are born too early in a scheduled C-section. This all adds up to parents inside and outside the North Fulton area choosing North Fulton Hospital for their birthing experience. “We have patients driving from Tennessee, Alabama and South Georgia just to have their birthing experience here,” said Farrow. Lauren and Daniel didn’t mind driving either. “We feel so strongly about water birth at WellStar North Fulton that we drove from Marietta,” said Laura. “There’s a reason why I always go back to it (water birth). Being in the water allows me to ﬁnish the marathon of labor.” ❍

By Beth Nitschke

As I contemplate my pathetic lack of training for this year’s Peachtree Road Race, and my resultant lackluster performance, my attention has been drawn to the ultra-ﬁt, the suburban warriors, dedicated to sweating, blisters, and self-abuse in the name of strength. Though being strong enough to endure a six-mile run is a good goal for me, and anyone really, I can’t fathom the source of my neighborhood gym warriors’ motivation. Especially the mommies. First of all, who has time for daily self-torture when being a stay-at-home mom is more than enough? And, I’ve never understood the desire to become “bumpy” in a woman. For guys, well, of course, everyone can appreciate that! Constantly motivated by ego, as they tend to be. But an overly muscled woman, in my humble opinion, simply looks masculine. I have a young friend who is a professional body builder, and I can’t wrap my brain around why she works so hard to shape her body into well, a different shape. She says it’s to challenge herself to be better and stronger. Obviously, she looks amazing, and enjoys the way she looks, and she tells me it’s an outlet when she’s feeling “some type of way,” lol. Those all seem to be pretty good reasons to work out. My question to the reader is this. Why go to such extremes? Running, walking, biking, heck—lifting soup cans as weights in the kitchen can burn calories, tone, and help shed extra pounds. But the tire rolling, rope climbing, dead-lifting madness that goes on in some gyms, reminiscent of “strong man,” or lumberjack competitions just seems a bit much. I’m not sure where this type of workout originated, or how it gained

so much popularity among the middle-aged OTP types. Maybe it has roots in the desire to recapture youth. Some brief research unsurprisingly revealed that the concept was born in Santa Cruz, CA, and got traction in the Pacific Northwest before spreading nationwide. The timing of its inception, in 2000, leads me to believe that the target generations would most likely be late Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers, supporting my conclusion that it’s mostly about a recapture of youth and strength. Interestingly, I discovered that IronTribe fitness, a similarly intensive workout regime was founded in Birmingham, AL, sometimes called the Iron City, hence the name. You learn something new every day. Since I don’t want to alienate any of my friends and neighbors, let me just say, I admire your dedication to personal fitness and strength. I just don’t get it, and that’s fine, I can continue to practice running so I eventually become faster than a turtle running through peanut butter. And I suppose that in an emergency, or a post-apocalypse situation that these dedicated warriors are the very people I would want to be around. ❍

21 AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

( A GREATER APPRECIATION FOR THE ULTRA FIT MODERN MOM

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

AT THIS POINT IN LIFE I’M GEORGIA DREAMIN’ By Di Chapman

LIFE… 50+ (

I’ll come clean. I’m an Orange County, Southern California transplant. Yes, I said it. I’m from the O.C., “the land of fruits and nuts,” where “airhead blonde” jokes abound, surfers become famous business guys just because everyone knows they’re surfers, tans are critical, and ﬂipﬂops sell for 59 bucks a pair. Tech will make you a bundle there, as will sunglasses, board shorts, bikinis, and being one of the “Housewives.” I agree that Californians are certainly not Georgia-like, but don’t hold it against me. I have special dispensation. I only lived was leaving for Atlanta, the automatic response there 22 years, so I was by no means a native. My was composed of two questions. “You’re leaving life in California began after lives in North Dakota; California? Why?” Like moving for a great job, or Seattle; cities in Arizona; Dallas; Fort Worth; to a place where a girl doesn’t feel the pressure to “go blonde” is such a shocking thing? Or to reduce Washington, DC; New York City; and Fort Worth the angst that the fast pace of California creates in again. So, like, Dude, like, no, I’m totally not a almost everyone I know? Californian by birth. There’s something that happens to me over and “Well, you’ll never be able to come back to California.” This, my friends, was an automatic over again, since I moved to Georgia. It actually started happening even before I left California. As I response created during the home-buying boom of told everyone in my circle of friends there that I the late 90s and early 2000s, when housing prices

The Power of Music Music can be powerful. It gives us a way to express our emotions and to connect with other people, crossing over generational and cultural boundaries. Additionally, music can help reduce stress and anxiety while improving our mood. A 2013 Hans Christian Andersen study in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that people who listened to upbeat music could improve their moods and boost their happiness in just two weeks. And it can be a very special part of our lives as we age, evoking memories that we can share with others. At St. George Village, we appreciate the power of music. From seasonal concerts and performances by our in-house troubadours, The Villagers, to singing hymns in church services, you’ll always ﬁnd a tuneful presence. Tom McDermott says music was the common ground for meeting people and making new friends when he moved to St. George Village last year. A

PAID PROMOTION

“Where words fail, music speaks.”

“self-taught fiddle player,” as he describes himself, Tom says he joined The Villagers, thinking he could back them up with his violin. He first sang with the group, but as he met other musicians throughout the community, he found others were excited about playing instruments. The group of 11 now perform as The Band-Aids, often joining The Villagers on stage and entertaining their neighbors. The Band-Aids also regularly play for the enjoyment of residents of SGV’s Treasures of Lakeview healthcare neighborhood. “When other folks start smiling and singing along with us, we can see how the music reaches them,” Tom said. “And we get the opportunity to keep playing our instruments and singing, even in retirement. This music thing is really important!” Come see how music and the arts are an integral part of life at St. George Village! Take a tour, stay for lunch. Call Stacy at 678-987-0402 for a confidential Resident musicians, and members of The Villagers and The Band-Aids, Nancy Allvine, Tom McDermott and Gene Stelten appointment. Visit us online at www.stgeorgevillage.org, on Facebook and Pinterest. perform for the enjoyment of all at St. George Village.

Southern California? Oh, I’m so sorry! Don’t you miss it?” What the heck? Why is there nobody in this country who thinks that moving from California can be a great thing? Or that maybe it’s possible to really leave California in the rear view mirror? I certainly had good years there, especially during the “clubbing” days. It was the 80s, baby. Boy, did we hit the dance floors. We girls would rat our hair up “big,” wear dramatic makeup, (Geez, what was I thinking with that eye shadow color?) and straighten our big shoulder pads. We’d do the best “come hither” glances we could muster. We would jump into our cars to head to Mexico for a night of dancing or to spend a weekend on the ocean in Baja. It was a frequent trip. We could cross the border at Tijuana and head down the infamous Highway 1, the picturesque ocean route. We could make the trip from Huntington Beach or Anaheim, or Irvine to the border in perhaps two hours or less. I remember driving up to Santa Monica to stroll its esplanade and have coffee. I loved going into Laguna Beach for dinner overlooking the water. And the drive to Malibu to have fresh fish seaside. We’d throw towels in the car for walking in the sand and soft drinks in the cooler. Flip-flops were a must. Those 22 years I lived in California must have been a detour from what my life was to be, and where. I’m having a great life here, and feel no urge to return to The Golden State. My friends there still ask, “Don’t you want to come back?” Nah. I ain’t “California Dreaming.” I’m Georgia dreamin’. ❍

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23 JULY 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

were skyrocketing and sellers were cleaning up left and right. You see, when you live in California, discussion about housing prices was, and still is, never-ending. Every day, every time you see anyone, you commiserate about how shocking the prices of homes are around you. And, with good reason. At that time, a new twobedroom condo was selling for $500,000 in many communities, and if you wanted a freestanding home that was anywhere near the coast, well, let’s just say you had better have some serious change in your pocket. That didn’t even guarantee a view or an ocean breeze. There was a standard rhetorical question one would be asked if looking to buy there: “On which side of “the 5” (Interstate 5, which goes the entire north to south length of the west coast of California) are you looking? The “5” is the line of demarcation for housing prices. The west side is the ocean side, even though along most of it, there is no ocean within several miles. But it’s the west side. The eastern side is the “beginner” buyer’s side. Homes are not inexpensive, but they don’t draw the premium of “west of the 5.” The real estate market had been in a frenzy. And yes, realistically, if you left California for greener pastures where you could easily afford a lovely home, chances are you’d have a tough time going back. The required monthly nuts are pretty steep. I’m so thrilled to have a life here in Roswell. But wait! Let’s get back to the questions I’m always asked right here when I mention from where I’ve come. “You moved here from

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

GARDEN (

8 GIFTS FROM YOUR GARDEN TO MAKE NOW Putting Your Garden to Work for You!

An arrangement of hydrangea and spirea from the garden makes a lovely summer gift. Photo: Mark Bunnell by Geri Laufer

Prolong the season and share your garden with friends and neighbors by trying some of these easy suggestions for garden gifts. 1. The easiest gift of all is giving flowers cut from your garden. Even if you don’t think you have flowers, ornamental grasses or a few branches of colorful maple leaves in fall make a lovely gift. A bouquet of hellebores in winter, daffodils in spring, flowering hydrangeas or zinnias in summer is undoubtably welcome. And from the vegetable garden, my “bouquet” of kale and chard was a big hit at a recent dinner party. Tie with raffia, or with cellophane and a matching ribbon. 2. A welcome gift for friends or neighbors is sharing growing divisions of your favorite plants. If they are thriving in your garden, chances are they will thrive in your friend’s garden too. Lift the clump, shake off excess soil and divide it in half with a serrated bread knife. Either pot it in a cute pot with potting soil and water well, or plop it into a plastic bag and place in a basket with a bow. If droopy, cut back long flower stalks or excess leaves, keep out of direct sun and deliver in the next day or two.

Geri Laufer lives in Atlanta, where she, graphic designer husband David, and English Coonhound Lily are working on designing and installing a new landscape for their new old house.

25 AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

Mix up a batch of homemade BBQ rub. Photo: Michael Salazar 3. Basil pesto! If you planted basil back in April, chances are that you have plenty of fragrant leaves to make into Pesto for pasta, on burgers or steaks, or chicken roll-ups. Here’s how: Take a packed cup of clean Basil leaves, add ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup walnuts (less costly than pine nuts), and 1 or 2 peeled garlic cloves. Process in a food processor, then pack individual servings in tiny jars and refrigerate. Pesto may be frozen for longer periods (August until Christmas, for example). 4. This time of year, lots of ﬂowers are going to seed. Are you a seed saver? It’s a wonderful gift opportunity. Share your harvest with gardening budDivisions of your favorite dies by making plants are welcome your own seed especially if you offer to packets and use help plant. them in holiday cards, stocking stuffers, as gifts or as place cards. Be sure to label with the type of seeds and the year collected. 5. Your own customized Herb Seasoning Blends or BBQ Rubs are pretty easy to make and perfect as gifts. Everyone’s gotta eat, right? Even if you don’t grow all of these herbs in your garden, you can patch in some dried herbs purchased in bulk from the Farmer’s Market. Mix up a batch and share it, along with a favorite recipe or two, for example:

Italian Seasoning for pizza, spaghetti sauce or grilled tomatoes includes basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder and bay leaf. Chicken Seasoning for roast chicken, chicken or turkey meatloaf, or chicken soup is good with sweet marjoram, parsley, and onion powder. BBQ Rub for Meat or Veggies has rosemary, fennel, savory, basil, oregano and bay leaves. 6. Flavored vinegars rev up salad dressings, soups, sauces and appetizers and are as easy to create as pouring hot vinegar (almost to the boiling point) over herbs. Or use chili peppers or other tasty items from your garden to season and experiment with different kinds of vinegars. 7. Just about everyone would enjoy a bottle of homemade herb-infused or flavored vodka. Rinse selected herbs and place in a clean mason jar with a tight sealing lid, then pour Vodka over them and seal tightly. Keep cool and dark, and shake each day, flavor tasting until the strength of the infusion is reached, then strain through a coffee filter. Basil/Rosemary Vodka is excellent for Bloody Mary mix. Or make a Coffee Vodka for Black Russians using fresh, finely ground beans and straining after steeping. 8. Package homemade flavored sugars with Earl Grey tea for a thoughtful gift. In the food processor, combine dried Lavender and cane sugar. Combine dried lavender and Pulse until the cane sugar in a food processor herbs are finely to create a flavored sugar. ground and the mixture is well combined. Package attractively with store-bought tea. Any of these homemade gifts will make a big impression and keep your garden fresh through all the seasons.❍

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

NO MONKEYING AROUND HERE FOOD (

Owners and joint executive chefs Mali Heu and her husband George Muh. By Frank Mack

There is a brand new restaurant at 1073 Green Street in Roswell. It’s named Monkey 68. A nod to the owners’ birth year of 1968, which was the year of the monkey. It’s located right next to legendary Greenwood’s on Green Street, across from the equally legendary Swallow at the Hollow, and if you know the area it’s just one street over from Canton Street. Monkey 68 adds culture, excellent food, and a graceful new style to Roswell’s culinary scene. In other words. I love it. They’ve renovated a small home that sits with understated beauty and charm to spare. It is welcoming and open as you walk up. This is on the upper end of the scale where reservations are recommended and the food is worth every penny. As I watch people walk in, they pause, then smile. I did that too. This place has a happiness that is infectious. The décor, kitchen, bar, and tables were done by the family. It is remarkable by any measure of design, which is meticulous and warm. I have been three times in their ﬁrst three weeks since opening. They have consumed my dining budget and a bit more. (My only regret so far is my credit limit the cheap publisher has me on!) Besides minor timing issues between services, it has been absolutely ﬂawless. From valet, to host, kitchen to table, the staff rocks.

to kerﬂop so fast it’s scary. Which 27 makes it so much more remarkable when a small family business pulls it off. Unfortunately the guys at Metro expanded way too fast and could not keep the consistency. You can not overcome an inconsistent kitchen. That reminds me folks… supporting family restaurants is supporting local families. And by the way. Waiting tables is a hard, challenging job and if The sushi is a department unto itself and it’s absolutely you do it well, treat your customers like top-shelf grade. family, you can make some serious money. I see signs in the windows these mysteries? Where is my star Restaurant Notes… nearly everywhere I go. Places are chef? Show me that résumé. But there If you haven’t been to a local street hiring. As my old man used to say: isn’t one. It’s all of them, both of them, and everyone they bring together both festival, one of our farmer’s markets, the “Kid, if you can work in the restaurant front and back of house. I am amazed. Chattahoochee Nature Center, any of business you’ll never starve.” It is in the culinary background of the the free local concerts or just taken a This last note is for you few laps around any of our gorgeous lit- Alpharettians. The covered patio that owner and joint executive chefs Mali tle town squares… Get up, get out here, Ceviche, located just off of Main Street, Heu and her husband George Muh that I am going to place the ultimate come play. You’re missing it! added on to their spot is totally hidden, credit for what is before us. They have What the heck happened at Metro and get this, it stays unbelievably cool come from China via Korea and the Diner on Holcomb Bridge Road in even in the heat of day. I think it’s the Mercer University masters program Roswell? The investment, the work, shade of the buildings and maybe a realong with some decades of experience. and in six months they pulled out. Boy ﬂective roof? Who cares. I just found a They have built and owned several very that was quick. That’s the restaurant new place to waste away an afternoon well known, loved, and supported local business for you. The best laid plans go in margaritaville. ❍ Atlanta restaurants, including One Sushi Plus in Brookhaven, which have been proving grounds. All done in preparation for this. They have made the perfect opening pulling off an amazing menu, provided incredible service, created excellent food, with zero complaints and standing my applause. Monkey 68 is located at 1073 Green Street in Roswell. For reservations and times of service visit their site at www.monkey68atl.com.

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

All three times the food has blown me away. They say Asian fusion. I say ok, sure. In layman’s terms I say it’s Korean with a great sushi chef. All you need to know is that it is so incredibly savory. They use kimchi like magicians. It’s an intense menu. Imaginative is an understatement. The sushi is a department unto itself and it’s absolutely top-shelf grade and focused on a dozen serious rolls. So please go for the Sushi. But the Galbijjim (short ribs) and the Jjang Jjorim (braised brisket) had me saying this is all headed to Korea. They also do a Beef Tartar with bone marrow that had the carnivorous side of me moaning with joy. And let me not forget a healthy dose of seafood on the menu as well. The Korean style miso soup is sublime with heated ﬂavors from summer. So now what do I say, what do I call it? In a way, who cares. Excellent is excellent whatever it’s called and make no mistake, Monkey 68 is excellent. But eating there so much (being the press and all) I gotta know, so I ask. Who is the master, the creator of all

BAMBINELLI’S IS A TRUE FAMILY STORY

recipes for sauces, garlic rolls, pizza dough, lasagna, pasta dishes, and meatballs. The production is overseen by Joseph Bambinelli with a focus on family traditions. Joseph is the owner of the Roswell and Lilburn location and Director of Operations for all of Bambinelli’s locations. The Roswell location, which opened in June of 2017, has already become a local neighborhood hotspot. The menu at Bambinelli’s is a practical tour of Italian cuisine with dishes made to order. They serve hand-tossed pizzas with made from scratch dough offering a variety of signature pizzas. Options include classic combinations such as a white pie, the house specialty Bada Bing, and Hawaiian, to name a few. Beyond the delicious pizzas, they offer a full range of traditional Italian dishes.

Joseph Bambinelli, Jody Gardiner and Jonathan Riposa of Bambinelli’s Pizza & Pasta

Guest favorites include the very popular chicken parmigiana, chicken cannelloni, eggplant parmigiana, linguini carbonara, sausage and peppers, fresh mussels, and veal or chicken piccata. Fresh salads include the classic Caesar with house-made croutons. The dessert menu features home-

made options such as a rich white chocolate bread pudding, a delicate tiramisu, and the option of mini or large ﬁlled to order cannoli. The full bar includes a signature craft cocktail menu, easy to pair wine, and a selection of local and Italian beers. During the daytime enjoy

the lunch menu every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Delivery is also an option within a 5-mile radius. But beyond dining in and delivery, catering orders are a large part of their business. Specializing in buffet style catering featuring a choice of entree with fresh salads and garlic rolls, Bambinelli’s can accommodate both large and small events and special occasions. The Bambinelli’s in Roswell is located at 2500 Old Alabama Road in the Willow Springs shopping center. ❍

Bambinelli’s Roswell 2500 Old Alabama Road Roswell, GA 30076 Sun.–Thur. 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Fri. –Sat. 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. bambinellispizza.com

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he Bambinelli family is proud to bring a little slice of New York to the neighborhood. With roots in the mountains of Torino, Italy and passion for food and service, they pride themselves on making every meal a meal to remember. They are committed to treating everyone like family in order to make a lasting impression on the community, one guest, one meal, one experience at a time. Each day they start with this mission in mind. For food is only half the battle for Bambinelli’s. They strongly believe legendary service is a complement to any meal. You can taste over a century of passion coming from the kitchen at Bambinelli’s Pizza & Pasta at their new Roswell location. The menu features homemade from scratch family

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

COMMUNITY

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COMMUNITY NOTEBOOK By Tricia Morris

JOHNS CREEK / ALPHARETTA

Jones Bridge Dental Care donated services on Free Dentistry Day

Back in the spring we had a multitude of “Taste Fests” and this month the City of Johns Creek steps up with their own Taste of Johns Creek on Aug. 19 at Chattahoochee High School. There will be over 20 local restaurants involved, offering various items ranging from $1-$4. There will be an Art Walk with handmade items from local artisans, live music, and kid’s activities, all while tasting some of the best food the Johns Creek area has to offer at this exciting event for the whole family. Just make sure you bring your appetite! For more info visit thetasteofjohnscreek.com. One hundred and eighty-three Alpharetta-area people recently received free dental services from Jones Bridge Dental Care as part of Free Dentistry Day. Doctors and team members provided free oral

health care to the community during Free Dentistry Day, a program initiated to provide dental care to the growing number of Americans without dental insurance. The doctors and team members provided over $57,700 worth of dentistry, including cleanings, ﬁllings, and extractions to local people throughout the day. One third of Americans are living without dental insurance and current economic conditions leave little room to afford dental procedures. Without events like Free Dentistry Day, dental care simply isn’t an option for many uninsured people. Swim Across America, a national non-proﬁt dedicated to raising money for cancer research through nationwide swimming events, has selected Madeline Singletary from Alpharetta and Emma

PAID PROMOTION

GOOD MORNING SUNSHINE. IT’S TIME FOR BREAKFAST!

(l to r) Swim Across America Junior Board Members Maddie Singletary (Alpharetta, rising Centennial Student), SAA Advisor and Cancer Survivor Dr. Julie Granger, and Emma Schwartz (Roswell, rising Milton student).

Schwartz of Roswell to join other elite metro Atlanta swimmers for Swim Across America’s 2017 Junior Advisory Board. The Junior Board works in tandem with an accomplished adult volunteer board that includes Olympians and master swimmers who are supporting the SAA Atlanta Open Water Swim at Lake Lanier on Saturday, Sept. 23. More than 10 Olympians are expected to swim the event including 2016 four-time Olympic medalist Maya DiRado and two-time Olympian and six-time Olympic medalist Missy Franklin. To join or support, visit swimacrossamerica.org.

Mom always said breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

Eating breakfast refuels your body, enhances your mood, improves your concentration. It helps you maintain a healthy weight and is the foundation of a healthy diet. Eating a healthy Kale me Crazy Breakfast is quick and easy and provides the benefits that will keep you satisfied until lunch and last the entire day. Folks who eat breakfast regularly are more likely to consume a healthier diet overall. By skipping breakfast, you may have a difficult time consuming essential nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. Breakfast foods typically consist of foods which are significant sources of vitamins C and D, calcium, iron, and fiber. If you do not eat breakfast, you may not meet your daily nutrient recommendations. Most importantly, eating breakfast leads to healthier food choices at other meals. The core of a healthy breakfast consists of whole grains and nuts, such as gluten-free granola, walnuts, flax seeds, chia and cashews; low fat protein from hard-boiled eggs and avocado; low fat non-dairy alternatives such as coconut yogurt, almond milk, or hemp milk; and fruits and vegeta“Healthy habits start here.” bles, such as such as cold pressed juices, smoothies, energy shots, organic coffees, and teas. It’s easy to make Kale me Crazy part of your morning breakfast routine whether you are pressed for time or it’s part of your morning commute to work, we’ll beat that fast food drive thru line every time. Call ahead or order online using our APP and we’ll have it ready to go! Breakfast Catering is also an option from Kale me Crazy. Get your morning meeting, conference call or coffee break started right… we’ll deliver right to your door! The breakfast choices are many and they are quick, portable, and delicious, made from fresh organic fruits, vegetables, and superfood ingredients. From our Smoothies, Acai Bowls, Breakfast Wraps, and Smoothies, to our Glow Juice and our Iced Coffees, Matcha Green Tea, and energy shots, we’re sure to have your favorites. ❍

Add Kale me Crazy to your morning routine: it’s breakfast-convenient, nutritious, and delicious.

Want to make a difference in your morning routine? Come see us at 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Suite 910, Roswell GA 30076 Call 678-878-3188 or email: roswell@kalemecrazy.net

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

draft beers, hand-crafted below adult community in 29 cocktails and an extensive regard to the age limit of the wine list. Also in that center, Aquatic Center and their the now defunct Pollo Tropical desire to utilize the center to will become a Regions Bank. improve their health and wellOn Sept. 3 and 4 stop by ness,” said Jeff Pruitt, Interim Temple Kol Emeth at 1415 Director of the Roswell Old Canton Road for their anRecreation, Parks, Historic & nual Nosh Fest. Noshfest Cultural Affairs Department. enters its seventh year The City is still committed ROSWELL / EAST COBB celebrating Jewish food and to providing dedicated services City of Roswell’s state-of-the-art Adult Aquatics Center Roswell’s River Mill Condominium Association, culture by showcasing to its 50+ population at the Inc. (200 South Atlanta Street, Roswell, GA 30075) RAAC, explained Pruitt. In fact, the decision to delicacies and activities unique to Jewish heritage has joined the pickleball craze. According to NBC and bringing together members of Cobb County’s diextend hours on Tuesday and Thursday (to 8:30 News, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in verse community in a fun two-day festival. Enjoy p.m.) and Saturday (to 6:00 p.m. for lap swim only) America. Invented in Seattle in 1965, pickleball is a drink and delicious food from around the world and came about because the center has not been heavily fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, browse booths of interesting and unique crafts and utilized by 50+ participants during those times and badminton, and ping-pong. All ages and skill levels goods. Noshfest is a “taste” event with samples sold because those hours are convenient for participants can play the sport. The game is played with a paddle wanting to use the RAAC after work. The RAAC is from $1 to $5 of delicious food including bagels, and a plastic ball with holes (Wifﬂe ball) and can be kugel, brisket, latkes, potato knish, fried green tomalocated at 830 Grimes Bridge Road in Roswell. played in a singles or doubles format. toes, ice cream, pastrami and corned beef East Cobb will have a new barbeque restaurant Adults age 25 and up will now be able to sandwiches, hamantaschen cookies and much more. opening the end of this month. Loyal Q and Brew, experience the City of Roswell’s state-of-the-art For more info visit www.noshfest.com. located in the Parkaire Shopping Center (4880 Adult Aquatics Center (RAAC). Starting on August Lower Roswell Rd.) next to the now closed Goodyear, The Art Place at Mountain View will host the 1, the RAAC—which was previously reserved for par- is a new concept that is bringing a farm-to-fork expe- Wasted Potential Brass Band on Aug. 19. This New ticipants 50 and older—will expand the age range of rience to the community. Smoked meats served with Orleans-style second line brass band is based in those served, as well as extend hours on select days Atlanta and is a favorite at local festivals and parades. fresh ingredients and unique twist on classic dishes and offer new evening ﬁtness classes. Art Place is located on Sandy Plains Road and the will be on the menu. Along with BBQ, there will be “We received a lot of feedback from the 49 and show starts at 7:30 p.m. www.tapmarietta.com. ❍ over 50 unique bourbon whiskies as well as over 30

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

( BACK TO SCHOOL IS NOT THE SAME FOR EVERYONE COMMUNITY

By Tripp Liles

ur cover article this month highlights the Child Development Association in Roswell but there are so many other great organizations that do year-round work in assisting families and their kids who struggle with everyday issues due to economic circumstances. One such organization is Star House Foundation, which was started in 1993 by a local group of Junior League Women who saw a need in the community to assist children who were falling through the cracks of the public school system. Much like the CDA, they started with a small group of kids in an apartment and have grown from there. Today Star House provides assistance in afterschool care to at-risk kids throughout North Fulton. Currently, they have programs in three Roswell schools, serving more than 250 children with a safe place to connect with other kids and receive help from teachers and mentors. Program volunteers assist with homework and school projects. They help the children develop strong study habits and the skills needed to make wise life decisions. They also have a waiting list, so help is always needed. All of the Star House funding comes from the community from grants, donations and events such as the Roswell Beer Festival held each spring on Roswell Square. For more info on how you can help, visit their site at www.starhousefoundation.org. In Cobb County there is a program called Comfort Kids run by an organization called Simple Needs, which provides help to those living in homeless shelters. SNGA seeks to “ﬁll in the cracks” by meeting unmet, but important, needs. It is in these simple

On the Historic Square in Roswell, back: Danny Broadway, Jeff Bridges, and front: Stephanie Mitra, Monica Oliveira, and Stephanie Christiansen, of the STAR House board.

acts—such as providing birthday gifts to a homeless child—that they help connect people in need with the services that can improve their lives. They need approximately 1,400 bags each year for the ﬁve local shelters they currently support. If you or your church or other group would be interested in helping with this project, either by purchasing items, donating money toward the project, or buying all the items and putting the bags together, please contact Brenda at brenda @simpleneedsga.org. A small or large contribution will really make a difference to the residents of these shelters. Additionally you can use www.smile.amazon.com as a great way to support SNGA. Just sign up for the program and choose Simple Needs GA from the list. After that, AmazonSmile will donate to SNGA each time you make a purchase! Just remember to go to the smile.amazon.com portal before you do your shopping! For more info visit simpleneedsgablog.com. ❍

By Geoff Smith This fall the City of Roswell will be facing a big election cycle with a mayoral race and several council seats up for grabs. Positively Roswell was born out of a desire by a group of Roswell residents for there to be a more civil discourse when it comes to talking about issues that affect the city’s overall atmosphere. Local government has the most impact on a citizens daily life, so it is alarming that so few residents engage with the city. In most cases less than 10% of the population vote in these municipal elections. In recent years, the overall political tone in Roswell has been adversarial, further distancing Roswell City Hall from Roswell city residents. Those who support Positively Roswell would rather shine a light on, and amplify, the very many things that make Roswell a truly great city and engage others. Positively Roswell seeks to discuss the issues that need work in a productive, respective manner that will draw citizen engagement. Our city has fantastic base to build upon. Take a drive down Riverside Road by Martin’s Landing and you’ll see an incredible stretch of the Chattahoochee River, much of it preserved in its natural beauty. Ride a bike along the Riverside

Trail and you can get closer to the river. Catch a concert at Riverside Park. Hike across the iconic covered bridge from the Square to Vickery Creek and rest at Vickery Creek Falls. Wander up and down Canton Street where you have one of the best and most concentrated collection of restaurants anywhere in the metro area. Live in one of the many great neighborhoods and raise your children in our great schools and nationally recognized parks system. Most cities would give plenty to have any one of these things; we have all of them. The city is a successful one, but we know we cannot rest on our laurels. And to keep Roswell the great place it is, we need to always work to improve and protect the things that make Roswell shine. And need to work together in a manner that is civil, humble and positive. Positively Roswell attends city meetings and

other important community meetings; we engage with city leaders and we bring citizens together through fun gatherings like our kickoff party at Gate City Brewing earlier this year, and our up and coming campaign kick-off party at Table & Main, named Table & Campaign, on Aug., 29. We also record weekly podcasts where our own Tai Anderson interviews the movers and shakers of Roswell and North Fulton county. And we work to make all of this information available to all Roswell citizens, because a more informed public is a more easily engaged public. For more info, visit positivelyroswell.org and if you would like to be on the distribution list for Positively Roswell’s outreach, email us at neighbor@positivelyroswell.org. To learn of upcoming events, please email our Events Manager, Natasha Cary at natasha@ﬂavorexp.com. ❍

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

A POSITIVE SIGN IN ROSWELL POLITICS

Living A Life With Deeper Meaning “The results from my blood work: for the first time in forever, my cholesterol levels were in the normal range!”

time in forever, my cholesterol levels were in the normal range!” Lynn D. People come to us wanting to avoid Type 2 or taking medications, to think more clearly, sleep better, to learn to eat properly, to be able to play with their kids or grandkids, to avoid ending up like their parents… Our clients want to live every single moment of life without hesitation or fear, to be as healthy as they can be. They never want to say, “No, I can’t do that” to anyone or about anything. Sound like your kind of goals? Call us today and we’ll get you on the track to life-long and strong-life success. (404) 435-6367. ❍

CoreMatters 1144 Canton Street Suite 104 Roswell, GA 30075 404-435-6367 www.ourcorematters.com

PAID PROMOTION

leg pain during strenuous exercise such as golf, tennis, Lately, I’ve been noticing ads for fitness and long hikes. I also had chronic back pain throughout programs that promise things like bikini my adult life. Once I bodies or getting ripped or losing 15 committed to the programs at pounds—all in only two weeks. Core Matters and stayed with Those sound like goals, but my first thought is: it over a year, all my pain went What’s next?After you get that ripped, 15-pound away. Things were challenging lighter bikini body, what’s the next target—a smaller at first, but over time my form, bikini? strength, and flexibility My second question is always: What part of your improved. Recently, I was able Lynn D. health did you sacrifice to achieve that goal? to play six days of golf in a row Honestly, it’s pretty easy to change someone’s body without pain, where before, one round would cause in a short time. But it will always be at a cost. And in me severe leg pain for a day or two. I’m also hitting the long-term, it won’t be cheap. The cost will be paid the ball much farther. So happy about that! I’m 62 somewhere—it could be compromised joint health, years old and feel stronger than I did 10 years ago.” biomechanics, the endocrine system, or maybe at the Al F. cellular level, where it won’t show up on medical “You probably saved my knees! Everything you exams for a while. said made so much sense!” Anne Y. Which begs the question: Is a change in “In the two years since I took your workshop, I am appearance a good measure of success? still injury free. That includes over 2200 miles of Consider these comments from clients at running… Thanks again.” David R. CoreMatters: “I thought I would share some news I received “When I joined Core Matters, I was having severe today: the results from my blood work: for the first By Ann-Marie Giglio

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY The Child Development Association works to secure a better future.

By Rachael Brice

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

Seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the end of school and here we are, already back in the classroom. As most people with children struggled to prepare for the new school year by gathering school supplies and buying new clothes, for many other families, the struggle goes on indefinitely. Not in order to find the exact kind of pocket folder with three prongs, but for daily survival. For decades the suburbs were isolated from poverty; those days are long gone. “Many citizens don’t realize how much poverty exists right here,” says Maggie DeCan, CEO and executive director of the Child Development Association (CDA) in Roswell. “People didn’t realize this when the CDA was founded 50 years ago, and there are still not enough resources available to combat this ongoing issue.” We all know poverty exists. It may surprise you that it’s right in our own backyard here in metro Atlanta, and it’s rapidly increasing, especially in the ’burbs—where a trend known as the Maggie DeCan, CEO and “suburbanization of executive director of the CDA poverty” is growing. According to a recent Harvard study, high-poverty neighborhoods have tripled since 2000, when metro Atlanta counted 102 of those neighborhoods. Today, that number has escalated to 304, a 198 percent increase. Additionally, the Metropolitan Policy Institute reports suburbia is home to almost 16.4 million poor people, compared to the 13.4 million in big cities, and 7.3 million in rural areas. However, poverty rates haven’t always been recorded. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) says that only since the 1960s has there been a higher incidence of non-metro versus metro poverty. “When the CDA was founded back then [the 1960s], poverty was viewed as invisible and it still is viewed that way today,” says DeCan. It’s certainly not an easy feat by any means, particularly as the gentrification of the area continues. Consider the current developments on Canton Street in Roswell or the expansion of Avalon in Alpharetta. Outside of our area—the Atlanta Beltline, the massive overhaul that is now Ponce City Marke,t and the restoration and refurbishment projects in Grant Park, Old Fourth Ward, and surrounding neighborhoods are familiar to many people and are now home to some of the greatest shopping and restaurants you can find around the city. But with all these new developments comes the

displacement of people, most of whom are pushed out into the surrounding suburbs due to a lack of affordable housing. However, even in the suburbs life isn’t ideal as often times there are fewer well-paying jobs, limited public transportation and fewer social programs to assist those in need. As an example, our well-noted restaurant scene has expanded greatly. But the folks who work there often times don’t make enough to live in the very neighborhoods they serve. Cost of living increases hit other occupations as well, and local employers feel the pinch. The need for affordable housing is real. In Sandy Springs and Roswell, the poverty rate is 13.9 percent, and as gentrification continues in and around the area, this rate has the potential to climb, unless proactive measures are taken. One organization working to combat this issue is the CDA. When a two-year-old child died of malnutrition in 1967, some local citizens became interested in meeting the needs of the poor so such an incident wouldn’t reoccur. A survey taken in October 1966 presented an apparent need to provide for preschool children of lower-income families. At that time, the survey revealed at least 100 children between the ages of four and five who would benefit from a day care program that would better prepare them for first grade. Back then, a family of four members or less with an annual income of $3,600 was given priority acceptance. Approximately 2,000 lower income families were living in the area at the time. Then on April 4, 1968, the nation paused as it learned the news of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. As the news of his passing traveled from Memphis, TN, to the North Atlanta area, many local citizens rallied together, aroused by emotions, and asking, “What more can we do?” Needless to say, interest in providing a day care center increased. Community leaders like Sylvia Hansell, Lil McNair, and others didn’t wait for someone else to act. They knew something had to be done. Children needed help now. So they gathered their strength and courage, along with a few volunteers, and invited them into their homes. This was the beginning of the CDA. They quickly outgrew their homes as demand was high and resources were scarce. continues on next page

North Fulton Rotarians Mike Mudd, Richard Matherly, and Jeff Jones.

AUGUST 2017 THECURRENTHUB.COM

In early 1974 a capital campaign was launched to construct a permanent home for the CDA. Local residents gathered together and raised one million dollars to build the 33,000 square foot building that is occupied by the organization today. Fast forward to 2017. The CDA has exploded and is alive and active in the Roswell community, serving anywhere from 155 to 240 children per year, ranging in age from one to five years old. The organization also operates two mini-CDAs, one in the Sandy Springs/North Fulton Annex Service Center and the other in the Adamsville Regional Health Fulton County building. With the addition of these two locations, the CDA can serve over 2,000 children in a year’s time. “The first 2,000 days of a child’s life are the most crucial,” says DeCan, “and preschool is an important experience during this time. Not only does highquality learning encourage children’s reading skills, which will have an impact on the rest of their schooling and their careers, it influence’s their ability to learn how to socially interact with others and make decisions for themselves.” The Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students (GEEARS) says only one-third of Georgia third graders read proficiently by the end of third grade, and as a result, Georgia’s future is at risk. The organization also says children who attend high-quality early education programs are more

likely to graduate from high school, attend college, get jobs, and earn higher wages. Additionally, they are less likely to drop out of school, depend on social services, or be arrested or imprisoned. “It’s not a correlation between receiving high-quality early education and a child’s outcome,” says DeCan, “it’s causation. For every $1 invested in higher quality education, $7 is saved by lowering the demand for social services and reducing crime rates.” The CDA isn’t just a daycare. The nonprofit provides a full-day early care and learning program, including three Georgia Pre-K classes, to the children who come through its doors. If not for the CDA providing affordable highquality early education, these children would more than likely be unprepared for first grade. Hardworking parents who enroll their children at the CDA earn an average of $18,000, so the market-rate tuition of $250-300 per week is out of reach. But with the aid of generous donors, churches, local organizations including Kiwanis and Rotary, and federal and local governments, the CDA is able to provide scholarships to its children, ensuring parent’s tuition payments are reasonable. “Our student’s parents make tremendous sacrifices every day,” says DeCan. “They’re doing all they can for their children’s education, so we strive to do all we can to set them up for a bright future.” The nonprofit is NAEYC-accredited

(National Association for the Education of Young Children), which is the highest level of accreditation available to any education program. Additionally, in July 2015, the CDA added another accolade to its name as it received the highest rating of three stars from Georgia’s Quality Rated program. “Both our staff and curriculum are committed to preparing children to be “ready by five” for school success,” says DeCan. The CDA campus has nine classrooms—six for toddlers and preschoolers and three for PreK students—45 staff members, including a literacy coach and family advocate, and four acres for the children to run around and explore, complete with multiple age appropriate playgrounds. The CDA is fueled by their passion for educating the younger generation and growing new leaders that will make a positive impact in the growing community. “If a child goes to preschool they’re far more likely to have a successful kindergarten and attain a third-grade reading level once in third grade,” says DeCan. This is a really important metric. People are shocked to learn that many states estimate their future prison needs by third-grade reading levels.” As such, DeCan is proud of the organization’s curriculum as it promotes cognitive, physical, language and social development. They also serve a nutritious breakfast, lunch, and two snacks each day, provide opportunities for immunizations, health and dental screenings, enrichment activities such as field trips, cultural performances and nature explorations, and hold parent-child conferences to inform parents of their child’s progress. “It’s important for children to have these early experiences,” says DeCan. For 40 – 45 percent of our children, English is not their first language, and they represent 17 different countries and cultures. Seeing them brought together by the love of reading, music or playing tag on the playground is something you can’t teach.”

From the beginning, the CDA was conceived not just as a childcare center, but also as a community center. And, for the last 50 years, it has been a lively hub of civic, charitable, educational, and humanitarian activities—all of which enhance the quality of life in the community. “I became aware of the CDA in about 2001. That was the same year I joined the Rotary Club of North Fulton,” said Mike Mudd, president of Rotary Club of North Fulton. “Soon thereafter I joined the CDA board and over the past 15 years I have remained a board member because I feel we make a difference in the lives of hard-working families in our community. I have come to learn the importance of early education and the impact it will have throughout the life of a child.” It’s local clubs and organizations that help CDA not only raise much needed funds but also help spread awareness. “Over the years, the Rotary Club of North Fulton has contributed both workforce and funding for CDA programs. Rotary has a strong background of supporting basic education and literacy programs. Having served on both the CDA and Rotary board, I know firsthand the significance to the CDA and other area nonprofits of having the support of local civic clubs,” Mudd stated. Battling to end the cycle of Roswell’s poverty, the CDA will continue to provide high-quality early, affordable education to all the city’s youngest residents. They also need your help and attention to the issue at hand. “We’ve come very far,” says DeCan, “but poverty still needs to be made more visible. Local residents care about the future of the community, like they did when the CDA was founded, and I believe if they knew more about the area’s local needs, they would reach out to help.” For more info on other local nonprofits assisting our youth, see page 30. To learn more about the CDA and how you can get involved, visit their site at www.cdakids.org.

“People are shocked to learn that many states estimate their future prison needs by third-grade reading levels.”