The Current Hub July 2015

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THE SHADOWS HEALTH p15 presented by North Fulton Hospital • pages 15–18

POWER OF PINK CASINO NIGHT STROKE SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP Q&A WITH DR. SHAZAD WADA ENTERTAINMENT p6

ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE LIFE p19

LOCAL PLANT KILLER IDENTIFIED FOOD p24

THE CORNER ON FOOD TRUCKS ALSO... DATING, ENTERTAINMENT, AND KIDS

The Craft Of Beer Comes Of Age page 27

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Frank Mack Di Chapman Michael Finch Matt Quinn Jessica Diamond Nancy Wallace Rochelle Mucha Send submissions & questions: events@thecurrentplus.com Main Phone Number 770-810-5943

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Currentchoices The Month in Preview July 2015

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>>STRINGS ATTACHED

Roswell Puppet Series

July 3–18

>>ARE THERE 3 KINDS? >>LAUGH IT UP

The Butterfly Encounter

Punchline At Avalon

Throughout July

First Monday of each month

Bored kids? The Butterfly Encounter at the Chattahoochee Nature Center is a highlight of summer fun. Enter the encounter and be amazed at the hundreds of butterflies that float above your head and fly below your nose. It’s easy to get up close to the butterflies, and you even have a chance to feed them using a nectar stick. Each of the species in the encounter is native to Georgia, so you are sure to walk away more familiar with our local species and butterfly biology! The CNC is located in Roswell on Willeo Rd. For more info visit www.chattnaturecenter.org.

Remember the Punchline in Sandy Springs? Well its no longer there but you can still catch some laughs as they search for a new home. Throughout this summer on the first Monday of each month, join The Punchline for lots of laughs with live comedy acts in Palmer Plaza at Avalon in Alpharetta (located between Oak Steakhouse and Colletta) The performances last about 90 minutes and are recommended for ages 13 and older. On Aug. 3 catch Mia Jackson. She has appeared on Oxygen’s Girls Behaving Badly, TLC’s Wild Weddings, NickMom’s Night Out, and is a has appeared on NBC’S Last Comic Standing. Her voice and perspective are different than other comedians.

Her style is energetic and conversational style leave the audience feeling like they’ve known her forever. There is no cost to attend.

The ever-popular Roswell Puppet Series continues in July. “Animalia” (July 6-11) explores the world of animals through movement, music and visually stunning puppetry. Watch as the world’s mightiest beasts and tiniest bugs come into furry focus right before your eyes. Hobey Ford Rod Puppets presents this stunning puppet ballet that is sure to delight all ages.

“The Emperor’s New Clothes” (July 13-18) marks Grey Seal Puppets’ return to the Cultural Arts Center. What’s big and pink and fond of frilly outfits? The Emperor is a pig in this hilarious barnyard adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson tale. Don’t miss this innovative and laughter filled take on a classic fable that teaches it is never too late to think for oneself. The Cultural Arts Center is located at 950 Forest St. in Roswell. roswellgov.com/PuppetShows

>>YOU OUGHT TO GO

Autrey Mills Unplugged

July 18 The new Autrey Mill Unplugged concert series transforms the area’s Heritage Village into a live music venue, offering an eclectic selection of some of the best performers in the Atlanta area. On July 18 they feature Just B’Cause. Each event begins at 7 p.m. in the Summerour House with a preconcert gathering, complimentary light refreshments, plus wine and beer available for purchase. The concert begins at p.m. next door at the Warsaw Church, a mid-1800s church.

Experience music and storytelling with ties to the past at Johns Creek’s newest music venue. The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve is located at 9770 Autrey Mill Rd. in Johns Creek.

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>>IT’S HEAVEN! >>THE LONG GOODBYE

Farewell Angelina Concert

July 18 Bring your lawn chairs, a picnic and even your dog for an unforgettably laid-back evening of entertainment at Matilda’s Under The Pines Concert Series. On Saturday July 18 they will feature Farewell Angelina an all-female country quartet featuring four women who are each award-winning songwriters, dynamic singers and multi-instrumentalists. The Nashville-based group has sold out rooms across the Southeast and Midwest, and has opened shows for Loretta Lynn (and received standing ovations for those opening sets).

Matilda’s is located at 377 South Main Street in Alpharetta. For more info call 770-754-7831. >>TOUR DE 400

7th Annual GA 400 Hospitality Bike Ride

July 12

While sitting in traffic on GA 400 have you ever said “I can go faster on my bike!”? Well now’s your chance to prove it as bikes will invade GA 400 sans cars. Imagine as you soar down the entrance ramp at Holcomb Bridge and you get the greatest feeling of freedom as you take to the multi-lane highway behemoth. Join 2,000 other riders as they embark on a memorable ride of 9, 27, 45, 60, or 100 miles throughout the best roads in North Georgia filled with horse farms and small country roads. For registration and info visit www.ga400century.com.

Almost Heaven, John Denver’s America

July 23 thru Aug. 8 “Almost Heaven, John Denver’s America” debuted at the Georgia Ensemble Theatre in the Fall of 2013, and proved to be the bestselling season opener in the Theatre’s history.

Under the direction of GET Artistic Director Robert J. Farley, and featuring the original GET cast of talented actor/musicians, the musical celebrates the work of America’s beloved troubadour, John Denver. His songs make up much of the soundscape of the 1960s and ’70s, with their honesty, passion, and love of nature and mankind. Featured songs include “Rocky Mountain High,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” “Annie’s Song,” and many more. This is a great opportunity to hear great music and enjoy the CNC. For more info visit www.get.org.

LIVE! SERIES CONTINUES WITH DIVERSE LINEUP

Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and selected as winners of five GRAMMY Awards.

Buy your tickets early for the show on May 7th featuring the comedy stylings of The Second City comedy troupe. This will be their third year and it will be sold out. This gaspingly funny revue is a modern mix of romance, rancor and everything in between. The Second City knows a few things about love—they’ve been laughing about relationships for more than 55 years.

Hooking Up with The Second City makes mirth out of missed connections, girls’ night out adventures, and all the crazy things we do for love.

In June, the series ends on the 11th with a performance by Edwin McCain who’s songs are well known through numerous hits. He is one of the most enduring and downright likable entertainers of our generation.

For more info and tickets visit www.roswellcac.com. ❍

5 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

Late Night with David Letterman.

Savino is currently working on a third full-length Tall Tall Trees record, which he is planning to release in 2015.

In October, Nikki Lane hits the stage on the 23rd. Growing up in South Carolina, Nikki Lane loved her mom’s Motown records and her dad’s country cassettes, but she’d also sneak to see altrock and punk shows. All those influences come through on her new album, All or Nothin’, which was produced by the Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach.

The 2015 portion closes with M-PACT on Dec. 19. A perfect choice Edwin McCain performs at RCAC on 2016 schedule for the holidays M-PACT pairs perfectly with an evening of holiday faBy Tripp Liles vorites. You can’t help but get in the Yuletide spirit as the guys perform One of metro Atlanta’s best entertainment venues, from their award-winning The Roswell Cultural Arts Center, will be continuing their selections Christmas album, The Carol successful LIVE! Series with a varied and impressive lineup.

Commission.

The series, which is in its 5th year, will feature acts Tall Tall The 2016 portion begins in February Trees, Nikki Lane, The Blind Boys of Alabama, The Second City, and with the Blind Boys of Alabama appearing as part of the Roswell Roots Edwin McCain.

Festival on Feb. 6. The Blind Boys are music. Savino has been touring the The new season kicks off in August recognized worldwide as living legends world collaborating with beat boxing with Tall Tall Trees on the 22nd. Tall of gospel music. They have attained the violinist, and of Montreal alum, Kishi Tall Trees is led by Mike Savino on banjo who is a pioneer in the world of Bashi and has appeared at Austin City highest levels of achievement, having Limits, Newport Folk Festival, and on been celebrated by The National experimental and psychedelic banjo

ENTERTAINMENT (

6 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE Think beyond your neighborhood and explore the metro area.

Sunset Sips at the Chattahoochee Nature Center are a great way to enjoy summer evenings.

By Jessica Diamond

Southerners aren’t designed to keep cooped up in our little nests. We are built for warm weather and living with plenty of adventure. While the more northern states may cry foul on the climbing temperatures, Georgians will not be deterred. This is our peak season and we intend to make the most of it. Even if we have to duel with some unreasonably sized mosquitos along the way, we will swim and grill and launch hazardous homemade fireworks to our hearts’ content. But just in case the barbeque needs a rest, here are a few suggestions for indoor and outdoor activities in July.

If your neighbors kept a cemetery in their backyard, chances are you wouldn’t rush over with a welcome basket full of zucchini bread. And yet, who among us wasn’t enthralled by the kookiness of the Addams Family?

One of TV’s most famous and darkly lovable families can now be found on stage, singing and dancing around their cobwebs, in the Onstage

Atlanta production of The Addams Family, A Musical Comedy. This summer, rejoin Gomez and Morticia as they suffer the worst fate any parents can imagine—their only daughter falling in love with a nice, normal boy from a respectable family.

Wednesday Addams, queen of the malicious monotone, is turning the house upside down with her devastating choice of partner. Should be a fun night for those of us who’ve been campaigning to get the show back on air! The show begins July 10 in Decatur and runs through Aug. 16, so get your tickets while they last. Check the Onstage Atlanta website (www.onstageatlanta.com) for tickets and details.

Seasoned travelers and foodies alike will tell you that the only real way to experience another culture is

the lush, green landscape. The more time we can spend outside, the better! B at the Movies, an evening event run by B89.5, makes the most of these magical summer nights every Saturday night of the summer by setting up free outdoor movies around the Metro Atlanta area. On July 25, B at the Movies will set up shop at Laurel Park in Marietta and offer concessions halfway through. Picnic baskets and coolers are welcome as well, though open containers and glass bottles will be subject to local ordinance. Grab the family and bask in the warm night air as you enjoy a night at the movies under the stars!

Metro Atlanta is unique in that you can jump from urban to suburban to wilderness with very little travel time. When the daily grind of your routine has you moving in a general trudge-like motion, maybe it’s a sign you need to just take an evening and reconnect with the world around you. The Chattahoochee Nature Center offers you the chance to feel like you’re “getting away from it all” without driving more than a few minutes with their Sunset Sips events. Pack a picnic, a bottle of wine and maybe your favorite person (or just take some time for yourself!) and enjoy 127 acres of serene, natural beauty under a summer sunset. I bet you feel better just imagining it, don’t you?

Come enjoy the sights of the watershed with good company and live, acoustic music. You’ll find your batteries recharged in no time.

Sunset Sips is held every 2nd and 4th Thursday, April through Sept.

July’s events will begin at 6 p.m.

This is the heart of summertime and your inner child is ready to get out and play. Even if your day job doesn’t offer the same summer vacation opportunities you had as a kid, that’s no excuse for letting these summer nights go unexplored. Kick off your shoes, dig your toes into the grass and rekindle the fire you had when you knew that the beginning of the school year was still nowhere in sight. Don’t remember that feeling?

Your kids will remind you. Get out and find your summertime adventure. ❍

7 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

to sample it’s best street food. At the Atlanta Street Food Festival, you can eat around the world in just one night at Piedmont Park. Southern Living magazine has named this food festival “One of the TOP 5 latest and greatest things to hit the South!”

Clear your schedule on July 11 and make sure to wear your comfiest eatin’ pants. You’re likely to find yourself on the back end of a blissful food coma by the end. Luckily, if you time it right, you can dance it all off as you go with the live musical performances to keep you amped up.

Proceeds go to The Giving Kitchen, a local nonprofit that focuses on the culinary community. Bring your friends and make a night of it!

Skydiving, bungee jumping, tightrope walking, whatever you do to get your adrenaline going, nothing will compare to very idea of riding your little bike along one of the most dreaded stretches of highway in the world—GA 400. If you’re looking for something to really get your heart pumping, forget the haunted houses you tried last fall. Real fear looks like bike shorts on the left lane of that highway to hell. Feeling adventurous? Register online for the 7th Annual GA 400 Hospitality Hwy Bike Ride on July 12 and take your ride 9, 27, 45, 62 or even 100 miles through some of the most scenic roads in the area. Once you’ve conquered the beast, gather for live entertainment and a great meal to refuel. Go for it! How many people can say they cycled that highway and lived to tell the tale? For more info visit www.ga400century.com.

One of the best things about summertime in the Georgia, in my humble opinion, is the feeling of the night air. If you can keep the mosquitos away, there is nothing better than laying out in the warm grass and watching the lightning bugs light up

8 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

Cultural Arts Center and classes at our recreation cenThe search for our new executive director will comters. Most of these events fall into the broad category mence by summer, and we hope to launch our new of community amenities, activities that strengthen so- arts agency by the end of the year. This professional, cial capital and community engagement. guided by the arts study implementation committee, Strategic arts initiatives include public art (drafting will lead us to our future. percent for art policy, installing permanent Riverside Sounds and temporary art exhibitions), enhancing or renovating a current venue to build a state of the art performance space, cultivating a culture of philanthropy for the arts through fundraising, and creating a

By Rochelle Mucha dynamic one stop online source for all things arts (for profit and not for profit).

Last time I shared incredible news that the City of Strategic investment in these types of Roswell was moving forward with its first arts initiatives brand a city as cool; commissioned public art for the new Fire Station #4. engaging; and culturally and aesthetically The RFQ will be distributed in July and our Public appealing to all demographics. From Art Selection Panel will meet early September to idenAsheville to Greenville, Philadelphia to tify three finalists to compete for the commission.

Portland, Vancouver to Montreal, great Well, the good news does not stop here. With the The Roswell Arts Commission will host its third cities have helped define their sense of place through passing of the final budget last month, the Roswell art. Not only do they make for great photo opportuni- public conversation on the arts on Oct. 1, as part of Arts Commission was funded to search for a new our annual celebration of National Arts and ties, these works of art generate a dialogue with Executive Director to create a non-profit arts agency Humanities Month. To engage and educate our comresidents and visitors, often on issues critical to our to build and grow the arts strategically in the city of munity, this year we will focus on public art. The social fabric.

Roswell. This was one of the priority actions But there is more. The budget includes funding for Roswell Collective will host the event with food recommended by our arts study this year. provided by Roux on Canton. Look for more informaadditional arts study recommendations. The arts What does it mean to grow the arts strategically? tion soon and please join us for a lively conversation study implementation committee is working on the Roswell is a city that enthusiastically supports and with artists and experts in arts administration. details this summer, but it is most likely these provides arts engagement through its recreation and The City of Roswell is “hot” and moving with a additional funds will go to fund Roswell’s first tempoparks department and civic organizations. We have sense of legitimate and thrilling energy. These actions rary art sculpture tour, contract for a Public Art Riverside Sounds, Riverside Movies, Alive After Five, Master Plan, create an artist registry (a curated list of are transformational and hold the promise of making and multiple art festivals, performances at our our great city greater. ❍ artists for public art), and build an all arts website.

ROSWELL’S STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN THE ARTS

LIFE

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THE RELATIVE COST OF COLLEGE very smart, and could probably attend any university, but he chose to go to an in-state school. Why? To lower the cost of his undergraduate degree, while also taking the time to figure out what he wants to do for a living. We call this very smart.

Why spend huge dollars for private or out-of-state school, even if it’s a parental Alma Mater, when he doesn’t even know what career he wants yet?

While in his first year of college he earned some scholarship money, is a part of the honors program, has a job, and is having some fun. Heck—it’s college after all! This young man will finish college with low levels of debt and have a much clearer picture of what he wants to do for a living. Next step—some work experience to be followed by graduate school. With good undergrad grades, he’ll be able to hand-pick the top schools for his decided specialty. He’ll hunker-down on his studies, seek a stipend, and write his thesis. Hopefully he finishes with little to no debt, and he’s on his way professionally.

Our advice is to start early, save into a 529 plan, and by the time your child is 10 years old, parents should have a conversation about what is ideal versus what is a realistic financial situation for you. By the time your child is 14 years old, include them in the conversation as well. The future is bright, but school loans can cast a long shadow. Be wise about your choices and help your children, and yourself, to a happier more meaningful life.

Robert Fezza, CFP® and Steve Siders, CFP® are owners of Odyssey Personal Financial Advisors, 500 Sun Valley Drive, Suite A6, Roswell, GA. Their firm specializes in working with people who are serious about making progress towards their financial goals. Odyssey manages portfolios greater than $500,000. 770992-4444, odysseypfa.com. Securities offered through Cetera Financial Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

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On the other hand, how does this payoff? The average starting salary, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, for new college graduates earning bachelor’s degrees is $45,473, an increase of 1.2% from 2013 to 2014.

The point here is a serious one— many college graduates are coming out of school with too much debt—not just school loans, but also consumer credit card debt. Parents need to be having meaningful conversations with their children to determine the appropriate choice of school based on financial ability, career options, realistic future income potential, location, scholarship opportunities, all blended with personal choice.

Here are two scenarios we heard

By Robert Fezza and Steve Siders about recently that emphasize these points.

What is a college degree worth to you or your child? Asked First, many people assume that proanother way; is the cost of college worth more or less than fessional degrees mean automatic success in life. Doctors or lawyers are the expected income potential over your career? This is another topic that begs for a meaningful family conversation great examples of this. This may be true for some degrees, but certainly not early in a child’s life, and between parents and their for all. They finish undergrad and gradfinancial advisor. uate school (and possibly more years after that) with a mountain of debt.

Are you still working in a career that it costs $33,816, spend even more at is related to your college degree? We all Auburn $40,624, less at FSU $32,702, Finding a job comes next. Fortunately, the medical field continues offer good seek a living that maximizes our skills or try on some orange at Clemson for employment opportunities, but there is just $39,932.

Private schools?

If you and knowledge, while meeting our no right-of-passage just because a want your child to attend Emory try needs. Some of us want to live 10 minyoung adult graduates with a law coming up with $59,444 per year. utes from work, while others put The average tuition (excluding room degree and passes the bar. Ultimately greater value on a safer, familythey must go out and find their role, and board) for a Georgia four-year oriented neighborhood for our kids. public school is now $8,094. This is their niche and purpose. God forbid it’s Some want higher income potential, while others want to avoid the airport more than double what it was 10 years your child that realizes, after all those at all costs. These are the tradeoffs we ago from $3,411, a 137% increase. The years and all that debt, that they have average tuition and fees for a Georgia no interest writing briefs and/or finds all make. four-year private school is now litigation to be “uncomfortable.”

With the average costs of college ris$29,578; an increase of 60% over 10 Our second example highlights a reing faster than the Consumer Price years ago. cent graduate who is a natural leader, Index, it’s a worrisome picture. The figures listed below are from collegeboard.com. Shockingly, the average rate of in-state tuition and fees for public four-year institutions has increased more than 3% annually since 1974-75. Until last year, that is, when it only increased 2.9%!

The first year at UGA will run you $21,058, which includes tuition, room and board. GA Tech is $21,828. Out-ofstate schools? Swallow hard and keep reading. For the University of Alabama

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT MONEY

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In The Great Outdoors ENTERTAINMENT (

Drivin N Cryin plays the ampitheater at Newtown Park on September 19, 2015.

By Tripp Liles Yes it is hot and yes it is humid but being outside and listening to some great music is a combination that is hard to pass up. In our area there are a multitude of places to enjoy a wide variety of music.

One surprising and welcome addition to the outdoor music scene is in Johns Creek. Their recreation and parks department has a summer concert series entering its second year at the ampitheater at Newtown Park, located at 3150 Old Alabama Rd. Admission is free and the terraced lawns surrounding the facility holds about a thousand people. This year they are featuring bands with sounds from the ’80s and ’90s.

“Last year was our first year and we found that our community was attracted to tribute bands and music they recognize and can sing,” said Kirk Franz, Johns Creek Recreations manager. “We focused on popular bands in our area that fit that bill.”

On Friday, July 24, Electric Avenue plays more favorites from the 1980s.

Electric Avenue is essentially the same band as Yacht Rock Schooner, whose 1970s song list was a hit at the Amphitheater in 2014.

The Billy Joel tribute band The Stranger, featuring native Long Islander Mike Santoro, performs on Saturday, Aug. 22. The Stranger has played at many locations in the region, including several House of

Blues venues and at the Fillmore in Charlotte, N.C. The series closes Saturday, Sept. 19, with the popular ’90s band, Drivin N Cryin (pictured), whose album Fly Me Courageous went gold. The Atlanta-based group has toured with Neil Young and Soul Asylum, and has remained well-loved in the Southeast.

Also, in Johns Creek is the Autry Mill Unplugged series that takes place at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, a beautiful not-for-profit park right in Johns Creek. The festivities begin at 7 p.m. with a pre-show social gathering in the Summerour House, with complimentary refreshments, plus wine and beer for purchase, then walk next door to the Old Warsaw Church for the concert at 8 p.m. These shows feature artists playing a more Americana fare. In July they feature Just B’Cause. For more info visit www.autreymill.org.

For those of you in East Cobb and Roswell there is the Riverside Sounds Concert Series that has been a staple in the music scene for some time. Riverside Park is located at 575 Riverside Road in Roswell. In July they feature River Whyless on the 11th. River Whyless has been featured on NPR’s World Cafe, Paste magazine, The Bluegrass Situation, SiriusXM’s The Loft, and more. They also have Adron on Aug 1, Monty Montgomery on Sept. 5 and the Get Right Band on Oct. 3. ❍

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

SUMMER MUSIC

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Businessreport presented by Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

IT’S TIME TO STOCK THE PANTRY! The North Fulton Chamber is organizing its annual ‘Stock the Pantry’ food drive in conjunction with Summer Jam festivities. The event will be held July 28 from 5:30-7:30pm at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. All donations will benefit North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC). This event is open to the community!

NFCC assists families with basic needs such as food, rent and utilities, clothing, and basic enrichment classes during short-term emergencies. Typically NFCC distributes approximately nine tons of food (on average) per week throughout the year. However, during summer months when school is out and children are at home, the need for assistance rises drastically. This increase in demand comes at a time when contributions usually decline, so efforts to restock the NFCC pantry are critically important during summertime.

The North Fulton Chamber recognizes this need and is coordinating its food drive in conjunction with the 4th Annual Chamber Summer Jam. The event is open to the public and will feature live music by James Patrick Morgan. Great food and drink specials will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance on the Chamber’s website or at the door on July 28.

The Chamber is asking local businesses, community organizations, residential subdivisions, apartment complexes, daycare centers, office parks, individuals and religious groups to collect food items for donation and bring them to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre’s Carl Black VIP Club on July 28th or drop them off at the Chamber office, located at 11605 Haynes Bridge Road, Building 400, Suite 100 in Alpharetta.

James Patrick Morgan

>>BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

THE CRAFT OF LOCAL BEER Jekyll Brewing is inspired by the South’s rich history, relaxed lifestyle and brewing traditions.

We have a passion for the art of creating a great craft beer, a love for the camaraderie of the industry, and a desire to share it all with our community. We brew five beers year-round, each rooted in a little bit of Southern heritage: Southern Session Blonde Ale, Big Creek Kölsch-style (an ale/lager hybrid), ‘Merican Amber Ale, Cooter Brown American Brown Ale, and Hop Dang Diggity Southern IPA. We also brew a host of seasonal beers, including Hoot’n Holler’n Double IPA, Slow ‘n Low Smoked Porter, Major Horton’s Export Stout, and Seven Bridges Oktoberfest. Each Tuesday we release a limited quantity of a special brew series, called the JR Series Tap Room Exclusives. The beers Jekyll Brewing vary each week but our brew-master and co-owner, Josh 2855 Marconi Rachel, talks about these releases on all our social media Drive, STE 350 pages. Come visit our tap room just off Windward ParkAlpharetta, GA way for tours and tastings Tuesday through Thursday, 5-9 30005 p.m., Friday 4-9 p.m., and Saturday 1-9 p.m.

GNFCC Calendar Highlights 2015 GNFCC Golf Classic Monday, September 28, 2015 The Golf Club of Georgia, Alpharetta

Following is a list of recommended food donations: Canned Tuna, Canned Chicken, Canned Fruit, Peanut Butter, Fruit Juice, Dry Beans, Macaroni and Cheese, Oil, Sugar, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Meals in Boxes, Mixed Vegetables (No corn or green beans), Pasta Sauce, Diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6). (All con-

tainers should be family sized. No glass containers, please.)

The event is being sponsored by: Guitar Center Alpharetta; Jekyll Brewing; Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park; and Liz Hausmann Fulton County Commission. For additional information, contact GNFCC Vice President Deborah Lanham at dlanham@gnfcc.com.

Presented by: Northside Hospital

The GNFCC Annual Golf Classic, scheduled for Monday, September 28 at The Golf Club of Georgia, is the perfect venue to build relationships with North Fulton's top business leaders in a spectacular setting ideal for fostering business partnerships.

Golfers will enjoy playing The Golf Club of Georgia, consistently recognized as one of the finest 36-hole golf clubs in the country.

Your support of the 2015 Golf Classic enables the GNFCC to serve as the catalyst for economic development, business growth and quality of life in North Fulton.

For more information on these and other great events visit www.gnfcc.com.

We’re Greater Together!

WWW.GNFCC.COM

770 -993 -8806 11605 Haynes Bridge Road, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30009

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DEAR DI It’s Time To Dive Right In

By Di Chapman I have a question from a gentleman in Roswell who doesn’t want his name used here. No worries, ye who remains nameless.

His question: “I haven’t been in a good relationship for 20 years.

Now a lady, whom I have known for a while, but never one-on-one, has suddenly expressed an interest in me. We’ve gone out for dinner and I think it went really well. I felt comfortable enough to kiss her, and she definitely kissed back. I told her I’d call. Why am I terrified?”

Both men and women often ask this question. Only with women, it’s usually “Why hasn’t he called?”

Nobody has a corner on this market, but ladies, this might give you a clue about what’s going on with the guy you had chemistry with last night.

My dear anonymous man, you have a good thing here! My advice?

First, call her. Then, dive on in! The water’s fine. From what you’ve told me, this lady wants your time and attention so she can bond with you over conversation about life before her, your former marriage (or marriages), grandchildren, and your dreams for the future. I think you have the potential for something special. She might not be the woman you stand at the altar with, but who knows? She sure sounds like she has the potential to be a wonderful girlfriend, at least for now.

If you’ve been in a less than ideal relationship (or several) in the past, you do have reason to be cautious, but not to drop out of the game.

There are many lovely women out there who seek mates, and they are attracted to every different kind of man. I’ve said before, I know women who are happy striking up relationships with incarcerated men they’ve never met. Computers, cell phones, and tablets have made this really easy.

You must know, too, that there are ministers inside and outside every prison and jail, making their living by performing wedding ceremonies for guys in the joint and women they’ve met online. Not that there’s anything wrong with this, mind you. I admit that love is a wonderful thing to find, no matter the circumstances. If these guys in prison can make it work certainly you can do it here in the suburbs! Heck, I’ll take dinner on Canton Street any day over a cell… but that’s just me.

In your case, if you’ve been avoiding dating because you’re terrified, it tells me you’re frightened about whether the other shoe will drop. It might not, so enjoy every day with her, and live in the moment.

She’s not a convict after all!

And be flattered! She made the first move. Now, splash around.

Better yet, do a cannonball. Sounds like this water is deep. ❍

Need advice on your love life? Send an email to Di at diychapman@icloud.com.

All correspondence is confidential.

13 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

LIFE

14 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

SUMMER HEAT AND SWOLLEN LEGS? Take Steps to Find Relief and Enjoy the Season!

By David Martin, CEO and President, VeinInnovations

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Summer heat means time outside in sandals and shorts for most, but for some, higher temperatures mean staying inside and opting for pants to hide swollen calves and ankles. Why does heat increase swelling in legs, ankles, and feet?

Swelling is a common symptom, but swelling itself is usually not the problem. Instead, it may an signal underlying condition or disease.

Common conditions such as pregnancy, injuries, infections, and certain medications increase the likelihood of swelling.

Diseases associated with swelling include lymphedema, congestive heart failure, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Lymphedema—a serious condition resulting in fluid retention, swollen tissue, and possible infection New-onset heart failure—marked

by gradual leg swelling and shortness of breath Deep vein thrombosis—sudden swelling in one leg accompanied by pain, tenderness, and redness, may signal DVT, a life-threatening blood clot requiring immediate attention. Go directly to an emergency room or, during business hours, for your convenience, you or your physician may also call VeinInnovations 678-7319815 to request an immediate ultrasound examination Chronic venous insufficiency—the failure of one-way valves that keep blood from flowing backward. A progressive and hereditary disease, CVI is the root cause of medically-indicated varicose and spider veins. It is also extremely common; about half of men and women in their 50s have some degree of CVI. Many people with CVI become accustomed to the associated pain because the disease progresses slowly.

Summer swelling may bring symptoms to a head, however, as heat intensifies vasodilation— an increase in the diameter of blood vessels—which may heighten symptoms of varicose veins, including heaviness, aching, restlessness, itching, and changes in skin.

Sitting or standing for long hours in summer heat can make symptoms worse. Compression socks or hose, making sure you get up to move around frequently, and elevating your legs when possible, can help.

Today’s treatments for CVI are in-office, minimally invasive, take less than an hour, and require little or no downtime. Treatments are performed using local anesthesia.Many patients notice

almost immediate relief.

Summer swelling, or embarrassment over spider and varicose veins, doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying the comfort of shorts and sandals. VeinInnovations offers free ultrasound screenings to help you learn more about the root cause of swelling,

indeterminate leg pain, and spider or varicose veins. Screenings are available at all three offices: Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, and a new Midtown Atlanta location.

For more information or to schedule or request an appointment, call 678-731-9815 or visit www.veininnovations.com. ❍

health&wellness presented by North Fulton Hospital

GOOD TIMES FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Sponsorships by local businesses and individuals, starting at $1,500 or casino table sponsorships at $500.

Contact

By Debbie Keel

Christina.kern@tenethealth.com or call 770-751-2867 to be part of the action.

When I first relocated to the North Fulton Community, I was surprised by a few things.

First, I learned that the best Shrimp and Grits is found in Atlanta area restaurants—many of them serving an outstanding version rivaling the same dish served in my home town of New Orleans. Never thought I’d see that.

I also learned what it was like to live in a place with four distinct seasons. Shortly after I arrived in September of Debbie Keel, CEO, 2009, I saw leaves change color and fall gracefully to the North Fulton Hospital ground (due to something other than hurricane-force Step up to the table and support Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta at winds). I enjoyed not having to wear shorts on Christmas and watching the the Power of Pink Casino Night presented by North Fulton Hospital. azaleas bloom wildly in the spring.

Then I learned the best lesson of all, it’s easier than you think to give back Your lucky evening will include dancing and fabulous food and drinks. to a community, especially in North Fulton. Opportunities abound for both Then you can push your luck at the casino tables to increase your individuals and businesses to extend a helping hand to people in need, chances of winning one of the fabulous raffle prizes! whether through donations of time or money.

So North Fulton Hospital created an event where we give our time and Tickets are $100 each and include entrance to all event activities, money and you can, too. And this while having a blast supporting the fight plus two drink tickets and a casino chip voucher. against breast cancer.

The event: Power of Pink Casino Night, 6 p.m., Saturday, September 26, at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta.

The cause: One hundred percent of sponsorships and tickets go directly to support Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta. Seventy-five percent of that funding goes into support of outreach and community programs in metro Atlanta Ostomy Support Group and 25 percent supports global breast cancer research.

SUPPORT GROUPS Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m., Classroom C What is needed: Sponsorships by local businesses and individuals, WomenHeart Support Group This group is open to anyone who has or will have an starting at $1,500 or casino table sponsorships at $500.

Second Tuesday of ostomy and any friends, family or supporters. The every month, 7:00- meeting structure is informal with group discussion But you get much more for your money than knowing NEW! STROKE SUPPORT GROUP 8:30 p.m., and guest speakers to be scheduled at various times your company or you directly contributed to the fight Will meet the 4th Wednesday of every month from Classroom C throughout the year. Call John Dorso at 678-694against a disease which has victimized so many women The National 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the classrooms. First meeting is 8726 to register or to obtain more information; and their families in our community. There’s lagniappe Coalition for Group does not meet in the summer but will resume in July 22. This group will provide a nurturing Women with (New Orleans’ French term for “a little something extra”).

September.

Heart Disease environment for Stroke survivors, caregivers and The event itself is a BLAST and the closest you can get to brings support and Look Good, Feel Better Las Vegas without getting on a plane. Great food and drinks families to meet , share and support one another.

Wednesday 7/8 and 9/9—10 a.m. to noon education to and fun playing casino style games where win or lose, you’ve For questions or more information please contact women who are at A cosmetologist will discuss how to care for skin and hair to combat the appearance-related side effects of done the kind of thing we do here in North Fulton: help Keisha Brown at Keisha.Carter@tenethealth.com risk or who already have heart cancer treatment. Free make-up and skin care someone. or call 770-751-2631. disease. For more products are provided. Call 1-800-227-2345 to Don’t be left out of the elite group of sponsors and register. information call Rebecca at 770 658-4796 or send an email to WHsupporters of the 2015 Power of Pink Casino Night. Contact Calendar continues on next page FultonCo@womenheart.org.

Christina.kern@tenethealth.com or call 770-751-2867 to be part of the action. ❍

Power of Pink Casino Night Saturday, Sept. 26 at 6 p.m.

North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar July – September 2015

16

NFH Community Calendar continued

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

HEALTH

Epilepsy Support Group

American Heart Assoc.

The third Wednesday of every month, 7-9 Heartsaver CPR* p.m. Classroom 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. Educational presentations by professionals will sometimes be offered. Please contact Tim for more information at 770-6679363.

Gamblers Anonymous Every Thursday, 6:30 - 8:30 pm Classroom C Anyone interested in stopping gambling is invited to attend this 12step program. Anonymity is the foundation of fellowship in this group.

For more information please call David at 770-862-2564.

Lupus Support Group Third Saturday 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 of America events. Contact Julie for more info 404-626-2394, lupusgroup4roswell@gmail.com.

Saturday 7/11, 8/22, and 9/12.

CPR course for the community.

Adult and child CPR, 9 a.m. to noon; $35 Adult, child and infant CPR, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $45

Diabetes Self-Management Workshop Saturday 7/25, 8/22 , and 9/26.

The Diabetes Association of Atlanta (DAA) offers classes at NFH to teach diabetes self-management skills. Call Katie at 404-527-7180 for more information and to register.

(

CERTIFIED STROKE CENTER LAUNCHES MONTHLY SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP

Water Birth Thursday 7/2, 7/16, 7/30, 8/13, 8/27, 9/10, and 9/24 at 7:00 p.m. 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 NFH. $30.00 per couple; registration required.

Maternity Tours Please join one of our Women’s Health nurses in the hospital atrium on alternating Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a guided tour of the Labor and Delivery suites, Mother/Baby Unit and the Neonatal ICU. The tour lasts approximately one hour.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

*AHA Disclaimer: The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in BLS, Babysitting Workshop ACLS, and PALS and has developed Saturday 7/18, 8/15, and 9/19 instructional materials for this purpose.

9 –2 p.m.

Use of these materials in an educational Teaches children ages 11 –14 how to be course does not represent course prepared and responsible babysitters. sponsorship by the AHA, and any fees Bring a doll or stuffed animal and a charged for such a course do not sack lunch and drink. $30. represent income to the Association.

Please call 770-751-2660 or visit www.nfultonhospital.com for more information, to register for classes, or to find a physician.

SPECIAL EVENTS LifeSouth Blood Drive Friday July 31, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

North Fulton Hospital Classrooms Give blood, and help save up to three lives with just one donation.

LifeSouth is a community blood center, which means the blood collected in your community goes to local hospital patients.

Skin Screenings Thursday, August 27 at NFH. Appointments start at 5:30 p.m. Skin cancer accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States Do you have a suspicious looking spot on your body? Have it checked out by a NFH physician. FREE, but registration is required.

Just Yell Fire Self-Defense for Teen Girls (11+)Sunday, September 13. Teen girls face a high risk of violence from strangers, acquaintances & dating partners. This single session class will teach teen girls 11 and older how to take ownership of personal safety & defend themselves against an attacker. For more info & to register, www.revvedupkids.org or 678-526-3335. $45 first child/$35 addl.

The Certified Stroke Center of North Fulton Hospital has stepped up its game once again. Though already on the cutting edge of stroke care and stroke interventional therapies, the center continues to look for new avenues to provide support and care to stroke patients and their families.

Stroke patients often require a certain amount of physical therapy as part of their rehabilitation. However, rehabilitation is not always about the physical. After initial treatment, stroke patients are discharged and sent to the inpatient rehab center where they begin to repair the damage and rebuild their strength. This does not necessarily address all of the mental health needs of recovering victims, or those closest to them.

The clinic recognized the need and is now offering an outlet for patients, caregivers and families to connect and support one another on the road to recovery.

As of July 22, every fourth Wednesday of the month will host a Stroke Support Group at North Fulton Hospital. The group will meet at 6:30 p.m. in the A&B classrooms.

The mission of this group is to provide a “nurturing environment for stroke survivors, caregivers and families to meet, share, and support one another.”

“This has been part of the plan for a long time,” Stroke Program Coordinator Edna Kennedy said. “We really saw a need to reach out to our stroke survivors who live in this community and provide them with support. It really helps them to reintegrate into the community, find support from those

who understand, and ultimately get back to a normal life.”

Studies have shown that stroke victims are at greater risk for developing depression and often suffer from feelings of isolation and detachment. These issues are often exacerbated, unintentionally, by those closest to the victim simply because they don’t understand what has happened to their loved one. There is an expectation that stroke victims can become dependent or unproductive.

Support groups like these challenge these assumptions and help survivors to hold each other accountable. They push each other to work hard at recovery and promote the confidence that life will continue to be active and fulfilling. It provides them a chance to learn, to interact and to grow. These meetings also help to educate the caregivers on how to best care for their loved ones and create a healing environment.

The group will not only offer survivors the chance to interact and connect with one another, but also provide different speakers to come and touch on topics that are pertinent to survivors and their families. These sessions will be facilitated and attended by the Stroke Program Coordinator, the Director of Rehab and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

To RSVP, please contact Keisha C. Brown at Keisha.Carter@tenethealth.com or call 770-751-2631. ❍

For those who suffer from chronic pain syndromes, every day is a battle. Thankfully, technology is starting to get the better of many of these issues. Clinics such as the Pain and Spine Center at North Fulton Hospital have been able to provide much needed relief to patients who may have lost hope of ever returning to a normal life.

Physicians such as Dr. Shazad Wada are able to utilize a wealth of new treatments and technologies, as well as their finely tuned skills, to ease chronic pain in the North Fulton community and beyond. Dr. Wada has improved the quality of life for countless patients, and will continue to do so as he grows and raises his own family in North Fulton.

Apparently it’s very philosophical. I went to New York for my residency and fellowship in anesthesiology and pain management.

Q

WHEN DID YOU FIRST DECIDE TO GO INTO MEDICINE?

ANSWER: I guess it was by accident. I fell into it by taking all of the pre-med courses, took the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) exam and applied. Didn’t think I’d get in, but I did.

A lot of my friends were doing it. It seemed like a good career path. I didn’t care for medicine at first, I didn’t think it was a fit for me. But then I did a rotation out of Northwestern where I fell in with one of the founders of our field, Dr. Honorio Benzon. He forced my hand. He said he’d be angry with me if I didn’t go into pain management. So I listened.

Q

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL?

ANSWER: I was born and raised in Chicago. My family drove through Atlanta on the way to Orlando, to Disney World and stopped here in North Fulton. My father never wanted to leave, so we moved. I ended up going to Chattahoochee High School, then undergrad at Emory and med school at Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Looking to get away from Augusta, I did my surgical internship at the University of Hawaii. While there, I learned that my name means “peaceful rice patty” in Japanese.

Q

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON AILMENTS TREATED HERE?

ANSWER: Spinal arthritis is a big one; lumbar radiculitis; herniated disks; spinal stenosis; compression fractures; arthritic pain due to shoulders, hips, and knees; and other chronic pain syndromes.

Q

CAN YOU SHARE ONE OF THE MOST UNUSUAL CASES YOU’VE HAD? ANSWER: Sometimes doctors

Q

are encouraged to treat patients in a cookie cutter fashion, but each patient WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO is specialized, each patient is SPECIALIZE IN PAIN important. One young lady came to us ANSWER: When I began looking for MANAGEMENT? with a chronic pain in her abdomen ANSWER: I enjoy the field because it’s work, I got in touch with the father of secondary to her inability to digest very gratifying. It’s really amazing that one of my colleagues, who is a partner food. She could not eat, and was losing you get to see a patient come in in pain here at North Fulton Hospital. They needed a new guy and the hospital was weight and health due to her inability and leave a different person. There is 20 minutes away from my family, so it to absorb nutrients. Part of her also a growing need for what we do. treatment included continues on page 18 Chronic pain is one of those things that was a done deal. practitioners don’t want to highlight, but it plays such a huge role in being functional on a daily basis. Simple things that we take for granted can be so difficult or impossible for these patients. I saw myself being able to do something for the community. I get to do it in the community I grew up in, which is a dream.

Q

Shazad Wada, M.D.

have as much red tape because the hospital likes to realize our potential and they see the need. Our ability to treat people speaks for itself. The current center is about 3.5 years old; we broke ground in 2011. Before this was an older pain clinic that was more typical, without all the bells and whistles they have now. They drew me here partly with the promise of this clinic. We’ve already seemed to outgrow it, we may even need a bigger facility soon.

HOW DID YOU END UP HERE? WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THIS HOSPITAL?

Q

CAN YOU GIVE US A LITTLE BACKGROUND ON THE PAIN AND SPINE CENTER AT NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL?

ANSWER: This center has so much potential. I’ve been all over the country, to all the major institutes, and there is no other clinic like ours. I have all the best tools for treating pain. And we don’t

Dr. Wada enjoys spending time with his family.

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

&

Q A with Dr. Shazad Wada

17

18 Dr. Wada continued from page 17 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

removing her colon and being put on TPN (IV nutrition) until a solution could be found. TPN therapy is toxic to the liver over time and cannot be sustained. What stood out about her was that we treated her with a celiac plexus block. This injection is used to treat chronic, abdominal pain with one side effect being short-term diarrhea. We used this side effect to jump start her digestive process. It’s interesting to me that we used a side effect as a treatment. It helped her to ease her pain, but more than that, it helped her to eat and to live. It was a whole different level of gratification.

Q

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

ANSWER: I have twins, 4 years old, and all my free time is spent with them. My wife is pregnant again, so we are very busy. We enjoy traveling whenever we can. I like playing tennis and I enjoyed driving my sports car until I traded it in for a minivan. I hate to admit it, but the swaggerwagon is great!

Q

WHAT, IN YOUR OPINION, IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TRAIT A PHYSICIAN IN PAIN MANAGEMENT CAN HAVE?

ANSWER: I think the most important trait a pain physician can have is to listen to their patient. Most of our patients have gone to many other doctors before coming to us, they are frustrated and quite often under appreciated. I find that lending an ear helps me empathize with my patients, bond with them, and ultimately optimize their treatment plan. ❍

LET’S TALK UV SAFETY Did you know that July is UV Safety Month? How much do you know about the effects of UV Radiation on your skin? How can we protect ourselves? These may be questions we don’t want to ask, particularly during peak beach season. However, it is crucial to be aware of sun damage and UV exposure in order to stay healthy and protect your family this summer!

“We need to protect our skin during these summer months since 90% of skin cancers and premature aging are a result of UV exposure,” Dr. Marcus Goodman of Goodman Dermatology said.

If you find yourself asking questions about the measures you can take to protect your skin from sun damage, Dr. Goodman is your man.

Thanks to him, North Fulton Hospital’s campus is home to one of the top dermatology residency training programs in the country.

Achieving full accreditation on November 5, 2013, the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine North Fulton Hospital Medical Campus (PCOM/NFHMC) Dermatology Residency offers an innovative dermatology program with a full range of academic, general, surgical, cosmetic, and teledermatology experiences.

It is the first osteopathic dermatology residency program in the state of Georgia and each year, one new resident will be chosen to support three residents in the program at any given time. The inaugural residents, firstyear Irina Milman, D.O., and second-year Eugene Sanik, D.O., began training on July 1, 2014. Both are board-certified in family medicine and have accrued years of experience in independent practice as well as dermatology research fellowships before deciding to pursue this dermatology residency.

“We’re honored to be the first residents in this program,” Dr. Sanik said. Experienced board-certified emergency physician Carmen Julian, D.O., recently matched into the program and will be the newest addition starting July 2015.

The backbone of the program lies in the primary academic teaching clinic on the hospital campus. There are five examination rooms, two operating rooms, a phototherapy room, aesthetics room, and resident library with dedicated computers for all residents and large flat screen TVs for teleconferencing.

During all three years, residents

have their own structured continuity patients under the clinical instruction of Program Director Dr. Goodman. His guidance allows for full support, but also a high level of autonomy for residents to cultivate long-term, meaningful relationships with their patients longitudinally over a three-year period.

The program is especially proud of its innovative use of technology. An electronic medical records system is used, along with digital skin imaging technology that enables photos of almost all patients and their skin complaints to be securely stored on HIPAA-compliant servers. Tracking images year after year aids in the early detection of skin diseases such as melanoma, following the evolution of postsurgical scars, and observing responses to treatments. With proper informed consents, they also video record select surgical and cosmetic procedures.

“This is of great educational benefit because interesting cases and procedural technique can be reviewed by the faculty and other residents for constructive feedback, especially when it’s not possible for all residents and attendings to observe all of each other’s procedures and cases directly,” Dr. Goodman explained, “best of all, it’s great for patients and they love it.”

Residents receive in-depth training in all facets of dermatology, from dermatologic surgery, laser and cosmetic procedures, to billing, coding, and practice management. At least 8 weeks per year are spent with the program’s director of surgical training, Emory residency and Cleveland Clinic Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Trephina Galloway, D.O., FAAD. When not in clinics, the residents have many other learning opportunities, including a weekly didactic curriculum, monthly journal

club, and biweekly Grand Rounds at Emory University. There are particularly strong dermatopathology teaching sessions by numerous fellowship-trained dermatopathologists, including the program’s director of TRACKING dermatopathology IMAGES YEAR Dipti Anand, M.D. AFTER YEAR The teaching AIDS IN THE includes slide EARLY reviews of DETECTION OF residents’ own SKIN DISEASES biopsies from clinic that week SUCH AS MELANOMA… with clinicalpathologic correlation, sign-out sessions, telepathology conferences, and board review courses with other Georgia dermatology residency programs.

As part of their training, residents actively participate in multidisciplinary tumor board conference, volunteer at annual skin cancer screenings at the hospital and local communities, and attend local and national conferences.

Each week, the program welcomes medical students, interns, research fellows, and primary care residents to rotate in the clinic and participate in academic and patient-care activities.

Anyone is invited to come spend time and experience what the program has to offer potential residents.

With less than one year under its belt, this is only the beginning. The program looks ahead to the upcoming AOA/ACGME Single Accreditation merger with confidence, and anticipates many exciting new changes and areas of growth that will ensure graduates are fully prepared to provide exceptional patient focused care, whether pursuing a fellowship or embarking on a career in either an academic or private practice setting. The future is bright. ❍

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19

YOUR LOCAL PLANT KILLER IDENTIFIED

By Di Chapman

Ah, summer is here. The days of sitting back to admire your handiwork in the garden after endless runs to the nursery and hardware store. You and millions of other do-it-yourselfers packed the parking lots of every favorite home store in the area, looking for the perfect shovel, trowel, fertilizer, and pot. You men stand patiently watering with a “cool cup” in one hand and a garden hose in the other. Happy, healthy plants-be-you.

Then there is me. I am a wanted serial plant killer in, let me think, how many states? Seven states, not counting the state of Washington where, with so much rain and so many overcast months, it’s impossible to kill anything you stick in the ground, at least on the western side of the Cascades. However, back here in Roswell, where flowers adorn every street corner, planter, and square, I’m baffled. How do all of these beautiful plants thrive in 98degree weather, then turn around and make it through a 25-degree winter? I’m constantly scratching my head, envious of the gardening ability I see everywhere around, including at my next-door neighbors who have stunning hanging baskets surrounding their doorsteps and porches. Do I lack the “planting” gene?

My thumb is so not green, it’s a deadly weapon. A “wanted” poster with my picture must grace the walls of every American Horticulture Society office in the country, and be taped up in every nursery. I’m certain it says, “Wanted dead or alive.” I’m an equal opportunity killer. Orchids,

geraniums, Mexican heather, ferns, succulents, and even prairie grass, which pretty much looks half dead anyway, tremble in my presence.

My latest victim was a very happy sunflower plant. I was told to make sure it was watered daily, along with a few others I was taking home.

Naturally, I interpret this as every other day. Around here, I normally think about a missed watering at midnight, while I raid the sweets.

It’s “OMG! I need to water the plants!” in between bites of chocolate. I found the sunflower plant dead on the second day home. I’d set a new record. None are safe with me.

Truth be told, my husband and I choose townhouse living because neither one of us can keep growing green things alive. We’re happy with our little bit of plantable property. I have a piece of soil about nine by six feet, a recessed front porch that looks more like a black hole, and a back veranda, all to improve the feng shui around our home, which is by definition about surrounding yourself with vibrant, Continues on page 20.

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

LIFE

20 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

LIFE living energy. Living is the operative word.

My husband and I often barter watering the plants in exchange for cooking dinner, but the daily necessity of it easily goes by the wayside. Usually these exchanges are awash in confusion as to who did what and when. Once again, I’m attempting CPR on another dying plant.

It’s not that I don’t try to keep myself from killing. Heaven knows, every year I bring home beautiful greenery and flowers of every type that say, “Full sun.” I interpret that as “hard to kill” in Georgia. Why shouldn’t I? After the above description of the summer weather here, why wouldn’t everyone be fooled about the heartiness of growing lovelies? So, I bring home the little beauties, thinking, “This is the year!”

Then it begins. I place my new victims just so, fresh from the store, still in their original pots, and stand back to admire their beauty, amazed at how they really do make my little plot of land look beautiful, and make the front porch less creepy. “This is going to be really great!” I say, “I have a garden!”

I’ve been told that it’s imperative that I de-pot them and plant them in the ground to keep

“My husband and I often barter watering the plants in exchange for cooking dinner.”

(

them living. The ground? I need to plant them in the ground? Hmm. But I concede. “Okay, I’ll replant these puppies when my deadlines are over.” Right. That’s like a professional lawn mower saying he’ll get to his own grass when his client work is done. Uh-huh.

My dad was a master at planting and growing beautiful yards. He tended to his flowers and greenery day-in and day-out when I was a kid in Seattle. I even loved to garden there as well. I never killed things. The slugs had that job. My demise was apartment living during college in Arizona; making Texas my first home, where it’s as hot as here; condo living in Georgetown; and an apartment again in New York City. I don’t know what my excuse was in Southern California, where growing is easy. Perhaps it was global warming.

I should be watering while I’m writing this column. I’ve totally forgotten about my veranda, where the plants are choking from thirst. Let’s hope they live to see tomorrow. Perhaps counseling would help me? It would have to fit into my deadline schedule. I gotta go. It’s time for me to stalk my prey. ❍

Looking to escape the heat? Then the cool environment at the Velvet Note is just the place to go. As Atlanta’s premier music venue, The Velvet Note has an array of artists appearing who represent nearly every corner of the globe.

The Velvet Note 855-583-5838 4075 Old Milton Pky Alpharetta thevelvetnote.com

Jamison Ross will take the stage at The Velvet Note on July 24.

A TOWERING FEAST Tower Burger is not your ordinary burger restaurant and bar.

later, Jamison, his joyous debut, presents him not only as a jazz musician who commands the drums, but also as a gifted composer, bandleader and more pointedly, a singer. On the 25th you can catch the songs of Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick performed by Toni Byrd. Byrd is one of Atlanta’s unforgettable and versatile vocal artists. Nominated by Black Women in Jazz for 2014 Best Black Female Vocalist of the Year and recipient of the 2014 Best Black Female Jazz Record Award for “Autumn in New York.”

In August the variety continues with La Lucha appearing on the 7th. La Lucha is a Tampa Bay based quartet that consists of four best friends from four different parts of the world; Japan, Colombia, Mexico & United States. La Lucha aims to create music that transcends genres and classifications.

They consider music to be live art, which will continue to breathe, grow and evolve with their commitment to it. That weekend rounds out with performances by Turkey born percussionist Emrah Kotah on the 8th and the Alex Claffy Quartet on the 9th.

For more information on these artists, tickets and specific show times visitwww.thevelvetnote.com or call 855-5-VELVET. ❍

Tower Burger 1495 Alpharetta Highway Alpharetta, GA 30009

Tower Burger is not only about a towering burger but it’s also about The Tower! A tower that features a great view, full bar, not to mention its set in an old western décor that makes you feel instantly at home. Tower Burger has been a work of passion for owner Shawn Sohrabi for nearly 2 decades since his culinary work began in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.

Over time our culinary way of thinking has come in line with Shawn’s philosophy of serving farm fresh food directly to your table. While a burger in its simplest form is a ground beef patty between two slices of bread, today’s culinary artisans are taking it to new heights and at Tower you can enjoy it up high as well. Every ingredient in their food is fresh from the farm and you can immediately tell from the first bite that these burgers are bursting with flavor.

They offer a multitude of ways to make a burger starting with the signature Tower Burger on Texas toast and other choices that feature toppings like avocados, green chilies, mushrooms, bacon and yes even a delicious veggie burger.

That farm fresh philosophy goes beyond the burgers. Tower Burger offers a wide menu with something for the whole family. They have a healthy selection of salads, sandwiches and delicious sides, and yes, a kid’s menu. The salads (House, Spinach, Cobb, and Grilled Chicken Breast) are all delicious and prepared fresh. Beyond the traditional fries they also feature Sweet Potato Fries, Jalapeno Poppers, fresh fruit, and even a variety of hot wings.

Beyond the fresh food, let’s get to the stuff that really takes Tower Burger to the next level, and that is their deck and bar. Looking for a great place to meet your friends and enjoy our wonderful surroundings? This deck should be your

new home away from home. Like the interior, it is beautifully appointed with a full rooftop bar and a great vantage point overlooking Alpharetta. They have a multitude of beers on tap, great wine selection and mixed drinks highlighted by the Tower Punch. So whether it’s watching the big game on one of their wide screen TVs, or just watching people pass below, Tower Burger can entertain just about anyone.

Throughout the year Tower Burger will offer specials and events. Keep up to date with all the happenings by joining their Tower Burger Club. ❍

Sunday – Thursday 11:00am – 9:00pm Friday – Saturday 11:00am – 11:00pm 770-674-1795 www.towerburgers.com

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On July 11 The JT Project will perform. These guys are a multi-talented force of sound that brings forth a unique musical conceptualization. Featuring some of the best musicians in New York City they have played with the likes of Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin, Kenny Garrrett, and more.

On the following weekend Tyrone Jackson with special guest Rhonda Thomas will perform on the 17th and on the 18th Nikolai Panov will play.

Jackson is quickly becoming on of the foremost jazz pianists around. He will be joined by Rhonda Thomas, a new favorite on the soul scene, for a great combination of talents. Russian born Panov is a world-renowned saxophonist who has performed across the globe. His group “FourMation” includes Panov on tenor and soprano saxophone, Mark Tucker on piano, Steve Blair on acoustic bass, and Bill Norman on drums.

On July 24 Jamison Ross will hit the stage. Ross definitely has the credentials. The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz introduced him as an incredible young drummer in 2012 after he won the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. Three years

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

A WORLD OF MUSIC TAKES THE STAGE

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22 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

COMMUNITY

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GIVE A BIRTHDAY Local students provide birthday celebrations for kids living in poverty.

Special to the Current Hub During the summer of 2014, Emma VinCola, a Milton High School student, and her friend Jaya Gupta set out on a mission to raise awareness about poverty in the North Fulton Community by connecting students to the less fortunate kids living in shelters.

After volunteering and spending time at various shelters over the summer, VinCola and Gupta realized that the kids missed out on special life events, like birthdays. They realized they could throw birthday parties for the kids by gathering volunteers from Milton clubs and other organizations that they take part in, such as the Alpharetta YMCA’s Teen Leader Program and Milton’s National Honor Society, bringing the community together and thus creating their nonprofit, Give a Birthday. In addition to the non-profit, Gupta and VinCola started a chapter of the nonprofit at their high school, Milton, and recruited over 100 volunteers at the school’s Club Fair.

Give a Birthday teams up with organizations such as the Drake House, the Garden, Rainbow Village, and other locally owned business. By joining the local communities together, they create opportunities so the fortunate community can have the special opportunity to change a child’s life by celebrating his or her birthday.

At their most recent party, Give a Birthday volunteers threw a party for the kids at the Garden, a shelter in Smyrna, Georgia. Give a Birthday joined forces with YMCA Teen Leaders from the Alpharetta YMCA branch, bringing in numerous volunteers from over 8 high schools in the North Fulton and Forsyth districts.

Volunteers came early and hung up streamers and balloons to surprise the kids. Volunteers also set up the tables with various deserts and candy, surprising the kids who had birthdays in the month of February and March. In addition, the Give a Birthday team donated 75 dollars’ worth of school supplies at the party.

Give a Birthday focuses on the needs of the less fortunate kids, and prior to each party, VinCola and Gupta contact the shelters and ask if there is a lack of any item.

The Milton High School students have many future plans for their nonprofit. This summer, their team plans to hold a color run and raise thousands of dollars to give scholarship money out in the form of presents to kids at the shelters. Next year, they plan to have friends at neighboring high schools, Northview, Alpharetta, and Roswell, open chapters to help their mission.

For more information visit giveabirthday.wix.com/give-abirthday or email Emma VinCola at miltongiveabirthday@gmail.com. ❍

KIDS/EDUC.

ARE WE THERE YET?!

>> KIDS & KAY

By Kay Paschal

Hitting the road for summer vacation—what great family memories we are making!

Who among us can forget how much Kay Paschal, Owner fun it was as a child Peachtree Park Prep to go on a family vacation? Those of us of a certain age can remember heading down I-75 to the Florida beaches and hitting the first Stuckey’s located in Stockbridge, GA, and continuing from that point for the next 8 hours thinking we were near Florida and asking “are we there yet?!”

Vacations today have somewhat of a different purpose and vibe than when I was a child and my family took off on vacation. For many families back then, this was the only opportunity you had to be around a swimming pool and other type amusement activities. My, oh my, how things have changed! Families

today have so much more to offer their children in the way of daily summer fun that family vacations are now thought of in a completely different way.

Instead of going “towards” the fun, families are now leaving all the fun and activity behind and using their vacation as a way of relaxing from all the “back home” super schedules of activities. When my own two boys were younger, my mom would chastise me about all the “extreme entertainment” I thought my boys needed and it seems to have only become more extreme for today’s kids.

But even though much about today’s family vacation has changed from when I was a child, there will always be one constant… the memories made of those long ago vacations that are so vivid we still can taste the ocean. Today’s family vacations will also be burned in our children’s memories forever.

So look forward to actually getting away from all the great Summer Camps, “extreme” play dates we arrange for our kids, incredible events and venues Atlanta has to offer for super-size summer fun, and really relax and recharge yourself and your children when your family gets a chance to “get away”.

Do something “extremely fun”…. nothing!

Happy Trails! ❍ Kay Paschal is Owner of Peachtree Park Prep.

23 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

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24 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

FOOD

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A CORNER ON THE FOOD TRUCK MARKET

Cousin’s Maine Lobster on Canton Street.

fast. The Roswell City Council gave limited approval to a new multi-famIf you frequent Canton Street in ily development on that corner so Roswell you’re probably familiar with there are potentially big changes comthe old empty gas station that sits on ing to the Canton Street area. Until the corner of Woodstock and Canton the bulldozers hit, these trucks make Streets. To locals it’s the Vicker’s a nice addition to the culinary scene.

Garage and recently, Jim Shumake The Paper Mill Returns who heads up 150 food trucks, has set up some trucks and it’s starting to For those of you in East Cobb, my take hold. old neighborhood, The Paper Mill It’s nice to see use of vacant land Grill located in the Paper Mill Village and these trucks generally kick out has reopened and it’s reimagined. some good fare. I like food trucks and Every change was carefully planned. always will. There’s nothing like low The space, which has known success scale food done right. These guys as Houcks but then declined under have gone from roach coaches to ele- previous ownership, has been gant eats on wheels and we see them transformed, so take the old image all the time. They bring diversity and out of your head and be open to a a unique breed of chefs who are inde- new experience. pendent operators and normally Remember Houcks that was specialize in just a couple of well exe- there? I loved that place. It had great cuted menu items. High quality, fresh, and experimental is the way most of these guys roll.

In the couple of times I’ve hit Vicker’s corner I tried the Cousin’s Maine Lobster truck and I grade those guys an OMG. If you know lobster then lean back and let the flavor overcome you, it’s totally sinful.

There seems to be no real schedule to these trucks so perhaps the appeal will be a little like food roulette but I’ve also discovered a great dessert truck there that has put at least several thousand calories on me and a BBQ sandwich that for $5 was out of this world. This is foodie adventure coming to us. You’ll never know what Paper Mill Grill: Hummus you’ll find. But you might want to act

By Frank Mack

Notes/Restaurant Briefs

25 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

From time to time I get the urge for something different and to be honest, good Mediterranean food is sometimes hard to find. So I traveled across the great Chattahoochee to a far-off land called Sandy Springs.

Just over the river on Hwy 9, I found Aladdin’s Mediterranean Grill.

There is nothing I fall for as much as a small ethnic family restaurant doing it right and this is the place folks. The place is clean, fresh, and super friendly. The menu is everything you’d expect; falafels, shawarmas, kabobs and those ever Paper Mill Grill: Calamari in NC BBQ sauce. present sides like hummus, baba food, drinks and full of family feeling ghanouj, and stuffed grape leaves. So and fun. Well that feeling is back with if you’re in the Roswell or East Cobb lots of upgrades and improvements. area hit Aladdin’s Mediterranean grill This has always been a cozy spot that located at 8725 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. sits on the East Cobb and Sandy Springs border that gives the area a great choice for dining. The kitchen has been made for serious production and it shows a solid investment by the owners to produce quality food.

These guys can also turn on a dime to accommodate their customers. My dining companion for the evening is a non-dairy, gmo, vegan and when the waiter picked up on her ordering Aladdin’s Shawarma plate. from various menu items the kitchen set aside the menu and made her two Looks like Abby Road Grill in special plates that were delicious.

East Cobb is no more… thank goodThat is a first for me folks. Worldclass service and accommodation, not ness! There is something new happening in the form of to mention the hummus and egg Highlands Grill and Pub. These plates were outstanding and I’m a guys come from the same-named meat eater! place over in Kennesaw and the I had the sautéed NC trout that was fresh and perfectly prepared. My transformation’s fantastic. The place has been cleaned up and it’s serving favorite of the evening was the fried solid bar food in an environment calamari. This is a sharp interesting dish, with the calamari fried in a NC that is more on par for what the area deserves. These guys brought BBQ sauce and served with pickled over the name, a good chef and a onions. Man what a wonderful solid game. Not reinventing the combination of flavors. It’s totally wheel here folks just doing it right. unique and a great example of the It’s definitely worth a look. good direction this place is headed.

Highlands is located at 2940 This chef driven menu run by Eric Johnson Ferry Road in East Cobb.

Ottensmeyer is rounded out with For you folks up in Alpharetta modern renditions of American clasdon’t forget about Made. It’s on the sics like chicken pot pie featuring back of Main Street in downtown Springer Mountain Chicken, and a and this is definitely one cool joint smoked pork chop with spring and another shout out to the guys at chutney. These guys are worth another look if you’re in the area and South Main Kitchen on Main Street. if you’re not? It’s definitely worth the Chef Christy Stone is still rockin’ drive to explore a new neighborhood. some of the best food OTP. No matter where you live.

The Paper Mill Grill is located at 255 Village Parkway in East Cobb… or if Remember our motto… this is about more than one neighborhood! Get you must—Marietta. out and enjoy all that is around us. ❍

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July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

A MODERN TWIST OTP Tap and Grill offers a new take on some familiar classics.

For the uninitiated, OTP is Atlanta parlance for Outside The Perimeter and in Roswell terms the OTP Tap and Grill is parlance for excellent food and good times. OTP is a neighborhood restaurant and bar that offers a unique ambiance with three different seating areas and a menu featuring new takes on American cuisine.

From your first step into OTP you’ll feel the difference. It has an instantly comfortable vibe with an open concept, which has dining outside or in. The warm and inviting bar is a great place to unwind with friends. It opens up on two sides allowing for easy access to a patio area featuring a panoramic view.

The dark wood finishes that highlight the décor enhance the overall feeling of familiarity and comfort.

“We aim to make OTP a fun and friendly place to hang out… come as you are and enjoy!” said Sal Mangino, owner of OTP Tap and Grill.

The attention to detail does not stop at eye level. Their acclaimed burgers are a perfect blend of chopped chuck, brisket, and short rib. This is one serious burger. Beyond the burgers their creative and well-rounded menu offers something for everyone. The must try items include stuffed pepper, BBQ spring rolls, lobster roll and even a coffee steak. To round things out they also offer a wide variety of lunch time sandwiches, chicken salad, tuna salad, wraps, B.L.T, healthy salads, and entrees like southern fried chicken, crab cakes, and a unique cauliflower steak.

“Our food is always fresh, we don’t rush it, and we take great pride in making sure everyone has a great experience.” Mangino said.

At the bar you cannot go wrong. OTP has 12 craft beers on tap and 16 in bottle and cans, not to mention craft bourbons and tequilas. Throughout the week they offer drink specials and happy hours Monday through Friday from 4-7 p.m. featuring a small bite menu. On the weekends OTP has live music to round out OTP Tap and Grill the experience. So whether it’s dinner with 1475 Holcomb Bridge Rd. the family or a night out with friends OTP Tap and Grill is the place to be. OTP will be Roswell celebrating their first birthday in early 678-585-0067 August with special discounts, live music, and of course some free cake! ❍ www.otproswell.com

Georgia fights to find balance in the business of beer.

By Tripp Liles

W

hen I started drinking beer in

college, in the

1980s, there were two basic beers. The free one and the one you had to shell out money for. Beyond that I don’t recall much variety but today I understand that types of beer refers to ales, lagers, and stouts. For most folks their first beer is a traditional American style lager. It’s light and easy to drink. If we’re honest, the difference in those styles is basically like choosing between what type of mayonnaise you like.

Over time I’ve learned the nuances of life and those lessons have transferred to my tastes in beer.

Apparently I’m not alone. Nationwide, and specifically here in Georgia, there are a multitude of craft brewers looking to take advantage of annual beer sales that reach over 100 billion dollars per year.

Yes that’s billion with a capital B.

Pat Rains, Brian Borngesser, and Garrett Nail, founders of Gate City Brewery in Roswell.

Photo by Full Measure Photography

“We saw this as a business opportunity for many reasons. It started with the founders of Gate City living and raising our families in Roswell. We all became very active in this wonderful community and watched this area blossom into the vibrant, What is craft beer? cutting edge suburb that it is today. It is a community that is diverse and loves to have options. We at The craft beer movement has been brewing for Gate City believed that Roswell was the perfect some time. It may have started with trendy melting pot of people that would love to have a hipsters but it now it is going mainstream. Here in locally made product, which offered them different Georgia the movement is taking a new direction as choices than they had in the current market.” Rains a result of recent legislation and investment by encontinued. trepreneurs looking to capitalize on an expanding Gate City has been producing beer in advance of market.

It is difficult to define exactly what craft beer is. local revolution is Pat Rains of Gate City Brewing, their actual location opening and began with two beers, an amber ale and an IPA. The ale is deeper which is soon to open in Roswell.

It’s kind of like you’ll know it when you drink it.

“Craft Beer is an opportunity for everyone to find and darker than a traditional lager and is flavored But officially (per Brewers Association) craft brewthe style of beer they like the most. It is an appreci- with hops from the Pacific Northwest giving it a ers produce small batches, stand independent copper color. The IPA has more of a fruit flavor, ation of the craft of brewing beer and the science financially (i.e. not Bud or Miller) and produce hoppier than an average beer but very drinkable. and art behind the beverage that so many enjoy.” beers whose flavor derives from traditional or innovative brewing ingredients and fermentation. Rains said.

Continues on page 28 Basically, this is the beer IT STARTED with deep flavor and unique personality, WITH THE normally made by people FOUNDERS whose personality OF GATE CITY matches the product.

If you are looking for LIVING AND tangible proof of the RAISING OUR business, there are plenty of brewers FAMILIES IN opening up right in our own backyard. One such ROSWELL. businessman leading the

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

THE CRAFT OF BEER COMES OF AGE

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Craft Beer continued from page 27

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com Patrons enjoy the craft beer scene at Jekyll Brewing in Alpharetta.

Another local brewer who has been making inroads is Jekyll Brewing in Alpharetta. Mike Lundmark and Josh Rachel started Jekyll.

“Jekyll Brewing’s tap room opened for business in August 2013. The founders responded to Alpharetta’s desire for its own craft brewery. The evidence for the community’s support can be seen in the tremendous response we received from our Kickstarter Campaign,” said Lacey Pyle, Marketing Director for Jekyll.

The guys at Jekyll have several beers to choose from. Big Creek Kolsch is a delicately balanced beer style originating from the Cologne region of Germany. The Hop Dang Diggity is a southern IPA that offers a hint of southern pine. Their Cooter Brown is an American Brown Ale that is very smooth. The last two are their ’Merican Amber with a slight spice to it and the Southern Session that is lighter and definitely great for the summer months.

Jekyll and Gate City serve as examples of people not just investing in a business, but rather a way of life. Much like being a restaurateur, they are

Along with enjoying the beer, Jekyll Brewing fans can show their loyalty with t-shirts and caps.

in this because of a passion for the product not just due to the fact that it is an appealing business model.

Legal stuff This is where the story bogs down. Politics. Now that’s a bitter taste.

The increasing popularity of craft beer around the country has

Growth/Economic impact Nationwide, the economic impact is tremendous. The volume production of American craft beer increased almost as much last year as it did the entire decade between 2000 and 2009, according to the Brewers Association, a trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers.

Craft brewers produced 3.4 million more barrels of beer in 2014 than 2013. The 18 percent increase is the main reason overall national beer production grew at all, increasing 0.5 percent.

Craft beer also is becoming more mainstream. For the first time last year, craft beer accounted for more than 10 percent of beer sold nationwide, and nearly 20 percent of the dollars spent on beer, according to the Brewers Association.

An average of 1.7 breweries opened each day in 2014, and there were 2,500 breweries in planning at the start of 2015, up from 1,700 the previous year. continues on p. 30

29 July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com

legislatures nationwide rewriting laws to accommodate microbreweries as they exceed production limits. Georgia, like most states, has a three-tier system involving producers, distributors, and retailers. Each of those entities cannot encroach on the others business. So that means you either produce the beer and have it delivered to a store, or you are the store. But you can’t be all three or even two of the three. That makes life difficult for the small brewer because they produce small quantities that are best at their freshest, produced in small quantities, and in the best-case scenario, sold directly to the public where it is actually brewed. In essence they want to be all three sides of the equation.

As you can imagine, a business model like the three tier system, with a hundred-year history, also has a lot of lobbying power and change is hard to come by when politics and money are linked. This year though, the Georgia Legislature passed a new law (SB 63) that allows more freedom to craft brewers but not total freedom. The new law took effect July 1 and allows craft brewers greater freedom to expand their business. That expansion isn’t actually selling you beer though. Technically they can’t sell you beer, rather they sell you a tour of the facility. Then you are allowed to consume up to 36 ounces of beer on site or take home a 72-ounce “souvenir” beer. This makes sense only in political parlance but it is a step in the right direction according to those in the business.

“We feel optimistic about the passage of SB 63, and sincerely thank our legislators and the Georgia Craft Brewer’s Guild for all their support,” Pyle said.

“We are pleased with the progress that was made during the recent legislation and we look forward to seeing exactly how it is implemented and enforced. We are hopeful that these first steps will lead to further improvement in the craft beer arena,” Rains said.

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Craft Beer continued from page 29

July 2015 | thecurrenthub.com Despite the obstacles that are in place locally the overall business is growing and not just here in the suburbs. In the Atlanta area there are 19 breweries and brewpubs with at least 14 more, on the way according to the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild.

The give back Area nonprofits and associated businesses are getting in on the game.

One such leader is the STAR House Foundation in Roswell, which provides after school care for underprivileged children. They were looking for an annual fundraiser that went beyond the norm and a beer fest seemed like a great way to catch attention. Now three years old, the Roswell Beer Festival is already a staple in the local festival scene.

“STAR House has been looking for alternative means of fundraising to support at-risk children. We often joke that beer festivals are the new golf tournaments in the fundraising world. The problem with craft beer is that there are so many varieties to try. At our festival we offer a wide variety of styles to let people expand their comfort zone and try different things. Our event allows people to learn whether they are a ‘hophead’ or prefer maltier beers or ciders,” said Jeff Bridges, an event organizer and STAR House board Chair-Elect.

Additionally, places like the Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub are in the act by sponsoring events like the recent Craft Beer Festival and 5k Road Race in Alpharetta. Billed as the “world’s hoppiest road race” this event combined the craft beer movement and running (now that’s a great combo) all to benefit a great cause: Canine Assistants.

All of these are examples of the craft beer movement coming of age. The business is expanding and the public is wanting more. At this point it is hard to gather data on the specific economic impact locally but business leaders are optimistic.

“It is still very early to tell but we at Gate City truly believe that the economic impact will be huge. These changes will undoubtedly lead to more brewery jobs and hopefully more traffic to the local breweries themselves. Breweries are also tied heavily to tourism. Beer lovers travel far and wide to visit the locations that are making their favorite beers and we hope that our brewery will bring people from all over Georgia to visit Roswell and the surrounding communities.” Rains said.

So whether you pick up a new beer at the store or you decide to visit one of these places in person, opportunities are numerous in the ever-expanding world of beer. ❍