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September 2014
W W W.T H E C U R R E N T H U B .CO M
What’s in
Conversations start here.
this issue...
H E A LT H
presented by North Fulton Hospital pages 19-22
GAINING APPRECIATION FOR EVERYDAY LIFE p20
CHECK UP FOR CHICKS IS EXPANDING p22 ARTS
LIFE LESSONS CONTINUED p6 LIFE
OVER 50 AND DATING p16
FOOD
SWEET & SMOKIN’ NEW RESTAURANTS p32 PLUS...A LOOMING SPRAWL BOMBp28 ALSO...COMMUNITY NEWS, ENTERTAINMENT AND KIDS pgs35-38
It’s Theater Season! Local theater is alive and well. Georgia Ensemble Theatre and the Marietta Players kick off a new season offering a wide variety of entertainment. P 24
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Michael Hadden Di Chapman Michael Finch Matt Quinn Jessica Diamond Nancy Wallace Main Phone Number 770-810-5943 Calendar Events events@thecurrentplus.com
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>BLUE TRAIN COMIN’
John Coltrane Birthday Celebration Concert
September 21
One of the great tenor (and soprano) saxophone voices, composer John Coltrane was born on September 23, 1926. Coltrane helped pioneer the use of modes in jazz and later was at the forefront of free jazz. He organized at least fifty recording sessions as a leader during his recording career, and appeared as a sideman on many other albums, notably with trumpeter Miles Davis and pianist Thelonious Monk. The Velvet Note presents its 3rd Annual John Coltrane Birthday Tribute show on Sunday the 21st. For tickets and additional info visit thevelvetnote.com. BTW… if you haven’t been the Velvet Note is incredible! A must for any music lover.
>>PARTY TIME
>>ACTING!
>>FUN FOR ALL
North GA State Fair
October 4
Georgia Ensemble Theatre Begins 22nd Season
Grab your cowboy boots on October 4 and head to Bulloch Hall for its Sip of the South event – an annual adults-nightout affair hosted on the grounds of the historic home. Starting at 6:30 p.m., this year’s event will feature the theme “Boots n’ Barbecue”. Proceeds from the event will support the continued reconstruction of Bulloch Hall’s Orchard Hill project on the north side of the property. Tickets are $50 per person. Reservations must be made by September 30. Call 770-992-1731 (Ext 2) for more information or to reserve tickets. Bulloch Hall is located at 180 Bulloch Avenue in Roswell.
Georgia Ensemble Theatre (GET), North Fulton’s only professional theatre company, will kick off its 2014-2015 season with the toe-tapping roadside party Pump Boys and Dinettes by John Foley, Mark Hardwick, Debra Monk, Cass Morgan, John Schimmel, and Jim Wann. Directed by GET Artistic Director Robert J. Farley, this foot-stomping musical runs September 11-28, 2014, at the Theatre’s home, the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell, GA. For more see page 24.
As the largest fair in metro Atlanta, the North Georgia State Fair attracts nearly 300,000 people every year from north Georgia and neighboring states. The North Georgia State Fair features live music, free attractions and shows, farm animals, flower shows, blue ribbon competitions, local entertainment, and delicious fair foods. There are also games and rides on the Great James H. Drew Exposition midway—one of the largest carnival midways in the United States, featuring the Wildcat Rollercoaster and the Georgia Mountain Lift. (770) 423-1330 or (770) 5288989 after September 1 www.northgeorgiastatefair.com
“Sip Of The South” Returns
Sept 18 through Sept 28
>>GREEN THUMBS
COBB Master Gardeners Volunteer at CNC
September 26 & 27 Fall is the best time to get your trees and shrubs into the ground. A long winter rest will enable them to develop hardy root systems and prepare for spring growth. The Chattahoochee Nature Center will offer discriminating gardeners a wide selection of unique and hard to find native plants at their Fall Native semi-annual plant sale. The Cobb Master Gardeners will be there to assist and provide advice on general plant usage, planting conditions and bloom times. Chattahoochee Nature Center is located at 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell. Call 770-992-2055 x 229 for information.
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3 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
Currentchoices The Month in Preview September 2014
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
Currentchoices >>EVOCATIVE ART
Modern Naive Muse & Co. Fine Art
All Month
>>>
“Modern Naive” introduces new gallery artist Barbara Olsen (work pictured) and also features new works by Ron Irwin. A fully self taught artist, Olsen has achieved an international reputation with a style that combines shimmering colors, a unique sense of design and the artful skills of a storyteller. Irwin paints in both acrylics and oil. He paints, scrapes, sands and layers until he is happy with the result. Irwin’s paintings have been described as humble and honest. Admission is free at MUSE & CO. Fine Art in the SOCA Village at 27 Oak St. in Roswell, phone 770-594-9511 for additional information.
>>NOW THAT’S FUNNY
Comedian Kevin Nealon
September 12 & 13 Nealon debuted on network television doing a stand-up routine for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1984. In 1986, Saturday Night Live recruited his friend Dana Carvey, and Carvey in turn recommended Nealon. Both joined the cast that year, and Nealon became a fulltime performer in the 1987-1988 season, and remained for nine seasons. He will be performing at the Punchline in Sandy Springs on Sept. 12 and 13. For tickets and info visit www.punchline.com.
>>WHAT’S THE HURRY?
Home By Dark Concert Series
September12, 8pm
Keep up with what’s going on at thecurrenthub.com The events calendar is updated every Thursday!
>>>
4
Hear Georgia’s own James Casto with Victoria Banks and Christopher Alan Yates. This is the last of the songwriters in the round concert of the season, featuring Victoria Banks who penned the hit song “Saints & Angels” for country superstar Sara Evans as well as the #1 “Come On Over” for pop sensation Jessica Simpson. Christopher Alan Yates is a member of the Sweet Tea Project, which is led by Collective Soul front man Ed Rollins. Held at the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s Concert Pavilion. For more info visit www.homebydark.com.
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ARTS
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
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THE LESSONS OF LIFE CONTINUE By Tripp Liles
For years local author Renea Winchester passed by a small local farm that featured modest signs in front of a modest old brick home. One day just by chance Winchester stopped in and her life changed forever. That’s the day she met Billy Albertson, who raises goats and chickens and sells vegetables from his roadside stand. Since 2008, Renea and her daughter regularly visit the farm, learning how to conserve rainwater, pick vegetables, grow a garden and most importantly just slow down. As a writer, Winchester couldn’t resist putting her experience with Billy on paper. Those initial days are remembered in In The Garden With Billy: Lessons About Life, Love and Tomatoes. The book relates how Renea, craving a simpler life, worked side-by-side in the garden with Billy, struggling to accept her mother’s terminal illness while learning that Billy had recently lost his wife. Among the lessons she’s learned from Billy are living a peaceful life and conserving resources. This month Winchester has published a follow up book titled Farming, Friends & Fried Bologna Sandwiches. It continues many of the life affirming themes found in the first. Here’s an excerpt: The Tradition of Baloney Sandwiches There is no shame in enjoying a fried bologna sandwich. Some foods trigger memories. Whether smelling
Renea and Billy share a laugh in the garden.
a peach or trying sushi for the first time, food binds taste with experiences. Food memories, good, or bad, linger in our adult lives. I bet you can still remember the first time you tasted a gooey campfire s’more dripping with melted chocolate and marshmallow fluff. The feel of a rough graham cracker as it touched your fingers; the anticipation as you pressed the crackers together blending chocolate with puffy white goo. Your tongue traced the edge of the cracker. You wanted to savor each bite, but your best friend had just said, “Bet you can’t cram the whole thing in your mouth.” So you did. Billy Albertson loves baloney sandwiches. It does not matter how Oscar Mayer spells B-O-L-O-G-N-A, for Billy it’s “baloney.” In his day, fried baloney sandwiches were a delicacy. They still are today. The new book is published by Mercer University Press and is available at the Book Exchange, in Marietta or the Bookmiser in Roswell. For more information visit Renea’s site at www.reneawinchester.com.
Kimberly Smith , CEO and Co-Founder of Omega Learning® Centers public school system, so they are equipped with the insight to best help each student succeed in school. “Omega understands that parents have two goals.” Smith stated. “Parents want our tutors to fill skill gaps and build a solid academic foundation, as well as increase their students' classroom performance. Omega uses the well-respected Woodcock Johnson academic assessment to pinpoint skill gaps. Students are assessed with both preand post-assessments to validate their academic growth. After the initial assessment a highly qualified certified teacher is selected. Additionally, students work with the same tutor each week, allowing them to build a trusted relationship and achieve lasting results. Omega Learning® offers a wide range of programs including; math (all levels), reading comprehension, language arts, writing skills, study skills, SAT* and ACT*, Georgia Milestones state test prep, foreign language, homework help, Kindergarten Success and enrichment. To learn more about Omega and taking your child’s education to the next level, visit www.OmegaLearning.com or call Omega’s Atlanta support center at 770-422-3510 to find a center near you.
PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T
Detect skill gaps now before grades fall! Since 2001 the tutoring industry has grown 10 times over. Whether in search of remediation for skill gaps or a leg up to the Ivy League, parents are in need of help navigating through the new Common Core Standards and curriculum changes in our public schools. A great tutor, of course, can make a crucial difference in a child's life -not only in building skills for scholastic success but also in fostering confidence. Omega Learning® Center strives to make a positive difference in the educational process by using highly skilled and dedicated certified teachers for all school subjects in grades K-12. Omega Learning® Centers are accredited nationwide through AdvancED, providing a crucial validation of educational quality. “Omega Learning® Centers' tutors are certified teachers. We customize our tutoring programs for each individual student. Our tutoring programs and supplemental teaching resources are aligned with our students' schools.” Kimberly Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Omega Learning® Centers said. “Our tutoring programs offer a comprehensive solution with our AIM Tutoring System® and the integration of five key program objectives: remediation, homework help, test prep, study skills, and enrichment. Most importantly, Omega Learning® is the only tutoring center that sends daily email progress updates to parents and school teachers.” Because of changing educational standards, navigating the educational process can be a tricky proposition for parents these days. Helping your children succeed in school can be a full time job! With a decade of validated results, Omega Learning® Centers have become the industry leader, validated by our academic growth statistics, which is two years and six months upon tutoring program completion. Omega Learning® Center teachers are typically employed by the local
7 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
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ENTERTAINMENT (
8 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
PUMPKIN BY THE POOL September is a transitional month with plenty of events for all tastes. deceptively large city maintains. Whether you come for the art, the The summer sun may still be shopping, the food, the live insistent on high temperatures, but entertainment or a chance to occupy September always seems to get us the kids for a weekend, you are sure into the spirit of fall. The sun starts to find a good time. The Festival will setting a little earlier, the evenings be held at the Roswell Town Square, get a little cooler and we feel the Sept. 20-21. You can find plenty of overwhelming desire to add parking at City Hall and take advanpumpkin flavoring to absolutely tage of the free shuttle to the Square. everything. And yet, we don’t yet This month, one of the happiest have piles of red leaves in which to musicals to ever hit the stage and jump or hot cider to drink. screen is coming to the Fox Theatre September marks the transition of in Atlanta. Anyone who says they the seasons, and we don’t quite don’t like ABBA is just trying to know what to do with that. Should hide the fact that it’s actually their we still be running around barefoot favorite guilty pleasure. Whether with sparklers or do we start you went to the movie in full planning our Halloween parties? costume or snuck in pretending to (That’s a trick question. You should be lost, everyone was dancing in the never run barefoot with sparklers.) aisles. And now you’ll be dancing in If the confusion is too much, don’t the aisles at the fabulous Fox when stress. Here are a few September Mama Mia hits the stage Sept. 23friendly ideas to get you through. 28! It won’t be here long, so be sure to get your tickets while you can. Go ahead and bring the sequins. We won’t judge. Are you having trouble getting your kids interested in history? Perhaps you need a different approach. Reading about wars gone by in a dry old textbook can bore even the greatest of history buffs to tears. Perhaps they’d feel more invested if the stories came to life. The Roswell Historical Society will present “Beyond My Stone,” a Living History Event on Sept. 13 at 5:30 p.m. The whole family can enjoy learning about the lives, and The Annual Roswell Arts deaths, of some of Roswell’s earliest Festival is in its 48th year! This residents in “first-hand” accounts. Roswell tradition has been drawing Members of the historical society support for the arts and raising will portray historical figures like money for the Roswell Recreation Lizzy Smith, Thomas King, Eva and Parks Department since 1966. Baker, and Fannie Whitmire. Check Something about the Arts Festival the Roswell Historical Society webalways highlights the local pride and site for details. small town charm that this By Jessica Diamond
9 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
The Zac Brown Band.
One of Atlanta’s most anticipated music festivals is back with an impressive lineup of well-loved artists. Sept. 19-20, Piedmont Park will come alive with music by Eminem, Zac Brown Band, Lana Del Rey, Bastille, Iggy Azalea, Ron Pope and a host of other big names and talents. This is a concert is unlike any other. Where else can you spend the entire weekend dancing it out to all of your favorite bands at once, live and in person? So, go ahead and spring for the tickets. It may feel like a splurge, but think of how much it would cost to see each of these groups individually. Then tell me you don’t want a piece of Music Midtown 2014. Trust me, you want to be there. If you are like many suburbanites and enjoy showing off your beautiful, four-legged fur child (or pack of fur children), then you will want to mark your calendars for the morning of Sept. 20. From 9 a.m. to noon,
Kennesaw’s Paws in the Park is celebrating all things canine with service dog demonstrations, vendor booths, and plenty of puppy love. Head over to Swift-Cantrell Park and show everyone what a perfect little angel your four-legged friend is, no matter how many shoes he eats. No matter what the weather may bring, and in Georgia it could be anything, there is plenty to look forward to, inside and out. True, it’s a long road to the holidays. But in a place like this, with so much to see, do and celebrate year round, it makes little difference to us! So sip your pumpkin latte and wear your flip-flops. We can watch the seasons change in style.
“Beyond My Stone,” a Living History.
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NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH IS ON THE HORIZON
Roswell City Hall will host the official NAHM kick-off on Monday, September 22 at 7 p.m. By Rochelle Mucha
For the past several months, I have written a column to strengthen our understanding of the contribution the arts make in our everyday lives. Today I invite you to join us in celebrating National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM), October 2014. What is NAHM? NAHM is a month-long national recognition when arts organizations, municipalities, and states recognize the arts and their contribution in creating vibrant communities. NAHM encourages all Americans to explore the arts and the role they play in our daily lives. In reality, every month could be an arts and humanities month in America! From Hollywood to Broadway to main street USA, there are more than 100,000 nonprofit theaters, dance companies, orchestras, museums, media arts centers, and festivals; along with innumerable libraries, history museums, and literature groups; and hundreds of thousands of unincorporated choruses, choirs, and poetry clubs. So many opportunities to engage with the Arts! How are local organizations celebrating NAHM? The Roswell Arts Commission and the Historic and Cultural
Affairs Division have invited artists, art educators, and creative industries to show off their stuff. This year, we will award three $100 CREATIVE COMPETITION AWARDS to the organizations or in-
dividuals that propose the most innovative arts idea. Award winning ideas will introduce something new to Roswell, broaden participation by attracting new audiences, actively engage participants and have the potential to positively impact Roswell’s economy and enhance Roswell’s brand. How can you participate in NAHM? Join us on Monday, September 22, 2014 at City Hall at 7 p.m. for the official kick-off to all the month’s activities and get a sample of some of the art and talent that will populate our October calendar, most of which are open to the public and FREE. Every individual and every age can celebrate NAHM. See The Elephant Man, listen Continues on p12
continued from p10 12 toArts… a symphony, participate in Story Slam, or attend The Hunts
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
(an indie-folk-bluegrass band) concert on Oct. 11—all at the Cultural Arts Center (CAC). Attend First Friday Gallery Walk, the Randall Paulson Art Show on Oct. 2 and 3 or write City Council to ask for more arts funding. Enroll for enrichment in any of these FREE events… • The Leading Role, an interactive workshop to help leaders create a culture of creativity and innovation, Thursday, October 9, 6:00-9:00, CAC. • Creative Alliance Workshop on Social Media, Tuesday, October 14, 7:00-9:00 p.m., CAC. • Public Conversation on the Arts featuring speaker Heather Alhadeff, Urban Planner and Creative Placemaker, Thursday, October 30, 7:00-8:30, Muse Gallery. And so much more! A complete calendar of events will be available online at Roswellgov.com. ctivate our spaces! So What! Economically, the arts generevitalize our communities! ated $135.2 billion total each us about our past, present and future! economic activity and $22.3 billion tax revenue in 2012 and trengthen our community connections! play a key role in driving economic prosperity and community vitality. Socially, the arts allow us to explore ideas, express emotions, and better appreciate cultures from around the world. In times of increasing and concerning polarization here and abroad, the arts open doors to understanding and acceptance, highlighting our humanity, how we all are alike, not different. There is no price tag on peace! The arts are a fundamental and essential part of our culture. Join Us!
A R T S
ARTS
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Print Lives! Pressing Matters V opens at 2 Rules Fine Art 2 Rules Fine Art of Marietta is hosting “Pressing Matters V,” the 5th annual members’ exhibition of the Atlanta Printmakers Studio (APS). This art exhibition recognizes the quality and diversity of work being generated by APS members. All works shown will be original prints using handpulled printmaking processes. The opening reception for the exhibition will take place at the 2 Rules gallery during Marietta’s First Friday Art Walk on Friday, October 3, 5–9 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. There will be printmaking demonstrations during this opening reception. An additional reception will take place at the gallery during Historic Marietta’s Holiday Open House on November 7, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. The show runs through November 21. Gallery regular hours of operation are Wednesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The gallery is located at 85 Church St., in the Downtown Marietta Square Historic District. For more information, visit www.2rulesfineart.com or call 404-355-6897.
14 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
HUMOR
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PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T
CURVES CELEBRATES TWELVE YEARS IN ROSWELL Back in 2002 when co-owners Gail Philip-Bacigalupi and Jackie McMillan were looking for a business to do together they never dreamed it would be a ladies’ gym. But with both having backgrounds in the health care field, helping women achieve a healthy lifestyle seemed like a perfect fit. The Roswell Curves is the 85th Curves opened in the U.S. and now there are thousands in 86 countries on 6 continents, making Curves the largest fitness chain in the world. Curves has evolved dramatically over the years since it began with the legendary coach-led Curves 30 minute circuit. This ability to adapt and change has been a major reason for the success. In 2005 a personal training system was added to the circuit, and in 2008, Curves added the Curves Circuit with Zumba. In 2013, after 16 years of research the Curves Complete weight loss program was introduced, requiring all staff to become certified with the Cleveland Clinic in nutrition, exercise, and behavior modification. Last January Curves introduced High Intensity Interval Training with Jillian Michaels (the coach on The Biggest Loser), and last year Curves parent company—North Castle Partners,
purchased Jenny Craig. The original Curves 30 minute circuit format continues, too, for those who love it. One Roswell resident Curves member (since 1998) was the first to cross the 2000 workout milestone, but others are close behind. She recently added some Jillian Michaels workouts to her routine and really enjoys them. Curves has a loyal group of members with long track records. Gail and Jackie have met some amazing women over the years. The members love that Curves supports Roswell community charities like Home Stretch and North Fulton Charities through the March Food Drive, the Back to School back pack drive, and the holiday giving tree. Roswell Curves works hard at creating a nonintimidating environment that welcomes women of all ages and fitness abilities. The anniversary coincides with a nationwide Open House from Sept. 1520th. Prospective members can get 30 days free on enrollment, and have a chance to win 4 months free by attending during the Open House. Change your life! Call Curves at Roswell Village, 770-657-0351. Visit www.northatlantacurves.com.
When I was growing up in a poor suburb of Dunwoody, my mother was very intentional about what I could and could not do when it came to outdoor activities. Playing in the culvert during or after a torrential downpour was on the “never, ever” list; as was swimming in a neighborhood lake unsupervised, or playing tag with the crossbow. Now, I’m not going to confirm or deny that I took part in any of those activities, but her main instruction I complied with religiously— don’t ride your bike on the street! Obviously, I could ride around the cul-de-sac and down our neighborhood side street, but was continuously conditioned to always ride on the sidewalk on any busy street while transporting myself, my baseball glove, and of course, my 28" RBI-generating, aluminum baseball bat. The reason for this admonition was simple, cars were driven on the road, not on the sidewalk—except for our one neighbor who had a slight propensity for moonshine—but that was an exception to the general rule. Anyway, fast forward how many ever years, and now cycling on the main road is not only suggested, but riding on the sidewalk can actually be a crime worthy of ticketing! Yikes! Now, in the government’s defense, there are studies that demonstrate that motorists hit more cyclists on sidewalks than those riding directly on the road. I don’t understand those statistics, but who am I to argue with
higher math and scientific research. What I do know is that cyclists riding on the main road outside of my neighborhood take their life in their hands as they navigate the twists, turns, hills, and shadows pervasive on that 2-mile stretch. My mother had an easy solution for this death-defying dilemma. “People should not be allowed to ride on that road!” But the local authorities had their own solution by making it illegal to drive within three feet of a cyclist. Seriously? Let’s think about this logically for a minute. In order for me to keep my gas-guzzling, super-SUV three feet away from a cyclist, I have to move over into the oncoming lane. Obviously, I can’t do this going up hills, or around curves with limited sight lines, so I have to slow down to a crawl and wait for my new traveling buddy to pedal feverishly to the top of the hill or the straightaway; then I can maneuver around them with a law-abiding three feet—assuming there is no oncoming traffic. And lets be honest for a minute, the white line on the right hand side of the road use to just show where the asphalt ended to give drivers a better spatial perspective—now we call it a bike-lane. No kidding! Maybe it’s just me, but this all seems a little backwards. Or, perhaps I’m just jealous that unlike these rabid cyclists, my butt and bicycle shorts are two things that should never be in close proximity. Either way, I hear the next break-through idea are school rooms devoted to running with scissors— seems perfectly logical to me!
Humorless cyclists can reach Mike at miscellaneousramblings@comcast.net.
16 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
LIFE
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AFTER 50 IS A GREAT TIME TO K-I-S-S (KEEP IT SIMPLE, SILLY)
Frank and Di discussing the intricacies of dating…Frank is on the left.
asked him for questions about dating from a guy’s perspective. I also hope Gentleman, tuck in your shirts. to illuminate the centuries-old Ladies, freshen your lipstick! This is questions, “Why are women the way “Di on Dating After 50,” a topic that they are?” and the question women could require several columns. ask at every hen party on the planet, Finding love is frustrating, exhilarat“Why are men the way they are?” Are ing and heartbreaking all at once. you ready? Let’s dive in. When we step out to date, we become Women and men are extremely at the very least teenagers again. Our different. “Why can’t a woman be hearts flutter. We say dumb things. more like a man?” asked Rex We hope to have a first kiss. We feel Harrison in My Fair Lady. Hello! clumsy and fumble around. Ah, She’s not a man! Why can’t a man be l’amour. Isn’t it grand? more like a woman? Easy! He’s not a My friend Frank, with me in the woman. Viva la difference! photo, was brave enough to listen to Women are NEVER logical about my babbling about dating at the risk dating. Compare: of severe ribbing from men Men’s preparation for a first date: everywhere. I promised Frank I Day of the date: Shower, shave, wouldn’t quote Dr. Phil or The View. brush teeth, and get dressed. They might make the feminine sex Women’s preparation for a squeal, but I respect that men have first date: their lines in the sand. One week before: Buy new clothing, Quite frankly (can’t help myself), Spanx, makeup, and fragrance. Color ladies, if you want lively conversation, hair. Get waxed and threaded. a bold sense of humor, and high Two days before: Manicure / energy, Frank’s irresistible. So, I pedicure. By Di Chapman
Jump on this girls, it’s good stuff. Men and women BOTH suffer rejection. Neither sex has the corner on this market. Frank asked me “Why won’t women tell their age?” Because, our cellular wiring includes constant rejection based upon age. Men’s genetic wiring is to desire young women who are fertile, a fact that unfortunately buys you guys undeserved flak. Modern men are still “wired.” Men of all ages love sweet young things. Quite simply, our age can be a deal-breaker! Yet, a man’s age will often have no bearing on his desirability. Not fair!
( ( “Why are other women afraid to be authentic?”
We’re looking for love in all the wrong places. Think there’s a dearth of potential mates? For heaven’s sake! Look around your neighborhood, at the places you go daily, such as grocery stores, dry cleaners and dog parks. Then, if you’re serious about dating, look like you’re serious every time you leave the house. Sweats and no makeup, girls? Please! Non-showered, gentlemen? That’s just wrong. Your community has single adults, and I guarantee some will date you. I can’t tell you how many phone numbers I’ve collected and how many times I’ve walked out with a date planned at the grocery store. Coincidentally, a gentleman stopped and complimented me in Petco while I finished up this article. (My sister’s rolling her eyes about now.) Girls, you’ll see a guy light up like a Christmas tree if you smile at him when your carts bump. Dress nicely. Men love figures of all types, and some man in that store will love yours! I’m just sayin.’ Men, step up and take it away. Both of you can do this. It still comes down to “boy meets girl.” Dating is not about “he said, she said,” or men versus women. It’s about “boy meets girl.” Come on, now. Let’s get back to the K-I-S-S.
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Must be present at time of purchase. 10-year parts warranty. 1-year labor warranty. May not be combined with other offers or discounts. Certain restrictions apply. Expires 9/30/14.
• • • • • • •
Must be present at time of purchase. Certain restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer Expires 9/30/14.
Rheem 2 Ton or Less Includes 13 seer AC with High-efficiency Coil with TXV
Includes 13 seer AC with high-efficiency coil with TXV. 10-year parts warranty. 1-year labor warranty. Standard installation.Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. Offer expires 9/30/14.
COMPLETE PREMIUM PACKAGE
Includes Standard Installation 10 Year Parts and Labor Honeywell Vision Pro T Stat With Dehumidification 5¨ Whole House Honeywell Air Cleaner 16 Seer AC R410a with 2 Stage Compressor 80% AFUE Variable Speed Furnace 2 Stage Gas Valve, High Efficiency Coil TXV
COMPLETE RHEEM 14.5 SEER HVAC SYSTEM 2 Ton 14.5 AC with R410a Refrigerant with High Efficiency Coil with TXV and 80% AFUE Furnace
$3989
10-Year Parts Warranty. 5-Year Labor Warranty Standard Installation. Call for prices on other sizes. Certain restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/30/14.
3 Ton or less
4 or 5 Ton
$4999 $5999 (After rebates & credits)
COMPLETE RHEEM 13 SEER HVAC SYSTEM
2 ton 13 Seer AC with R410a Refrigerant with High Efficiency Evaporator Coil with TXV 80% AFUE Furnace
$3250
10-Year Parts Warranty. 1-Year Labor Warranty Standard Installation. Call for prices on other sizes. Certain restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/30/14.
Locally Owned & Operated • Licensed • Bonded • Insured • EPA Certified
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
Night before: Invite girlfriends over to model clothing. Preview makeup. Deliberate shoes and handbag. During the date: Appear to be lowmaintenance. Women want a gentleman. Guys! We want you to compliment our appearance, open doors and seat us. We want you to stroll with us and buy us a flower. Sure, it’s goofy, but it thrills us, and makes for great debriefing with our girlfriends! Everyone looks for a “type.” This is often a result of our familial roots. I like conversational and “colorful.” I grew up in a family of seven, four males and three females. We were rambunctious. We played dodge ball and blasted tunes like In- A-GaddaDa-Vida and Whole Lotta Love. The house rocked. That said, I’m not every man’s cup of tea. I’ve crashed and burned because my dates were looking for coquettish and shy. I’m not. Why lie? If I weren’t authentic, it would be excruciating trying to contort myself to be someone I’m not. Frank asked me, “Why are other women afraid to be authentic?” Well, here’s the thing. Throughout most of history we were utterly dependent on men for survival. We pulled out all the stops to be alluring at all costs, constantly morphing into what men wanted. Think of harems, (all right guys, settle down) where young women competed for sultans or sheiks. The consequences of not winning their favor were dire to our well-being. The good news? No matter what your type, somebody will dig it. Motorcycles, cars and power tools make men happy. Conversation might not. Ladies, let it go. We women find the topic of relationships endlessly exhilarating. In every office, home, and restroom, we discuss finding love, professing love, and love gone wrong. Men, not so much. There are reasons for this. Think about the history of men. They’re warriors. They took hillside and watchtower outlooks to silently survey the terrain, watching and listening for any signs of impending attack. This mission precluded conversation. This is their cellular wiring. For some, it’s difficult to change. But not with Frank. He tells me that he loves to ask women conversational questions like “Who are you? What do you like to do?”
18 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
THE METROPOLITAN CLUB 5:00 - 9:00PM 5895 WINDWARD PKWY. ALPHARETTA GA 30005
NORTH ATLANTA'S LARGEST FALL BUSINESS EVENT Complimentary Appetizers First 2 Hours. Cash Bar All Night Purchase Tickets at: www.bigeventtickets.info For Vendor or More Info Call 404-447-7001 www.northatlantabusinessexpo.com Over 50 Companies Network with Business Professionals... Bankers, Realtors, Insurance, Tech, HR, Benefits, Payroll, Merchant Processing, Mortgage, Health Related, Wireless, Legal,Security, Home Remodel, Direct Sales, Financial, Automotive, Promo Items, Business Services and Much Much More Whether you are from Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, Forsyth, Dekalb, Cherokee, Dawson, Paulding, Douglas, Hall, or Walton. No other event draws people from this wide of an area!
WHY MARRIED MEN LIVE LONGER; FIND YOUR “MEDICAL HOME BASE” VeinInnovations is thrilled to support North Fulton Hospital’s Power of Pink event September 27th, and to help raise awareness for breast cancer prevention. In the midst of all the pink, we invite you to think for a minute about the men in your life, and encourage them to focus on their health, too, as men – especially single men – are rarely proactive about their health. Men hate to go to the doctor, and are less likely to do so unless they have a wife or significant other nagging them into going. In fact, studies from the past 150 years show that married men live longer than single men – by 17 years – in part because they are more Scan For Video likely to receive regular medical care, and they: • eat better • exercise more • are not as likely to smoke, drink, and engage in risky behaviors • have a much lower risk of suffering from depression • are more likely to have a happy healthy retirement. According to a Doctors WebMD study, men cite stoicism, high cost, busy schedules, and the fear of digital rectal exams as high among the reasons they avoid regular visits to a physician. A key to helping all men stay healthier is choosing a primary care physician and developing a relationship with this “medical home base” person. It is critical that you be able to communicate well with this person, and that they be accessible. We won’t see someone we can’t talk to easily, or someone who is difficult to visit either because they are “geographically undesirable” or be-
David A. Martin, RN, CRNFA, is the President and CEO of VeinInnovations. cause of limited office hours. My advice? Find a doctor near your work or home, someone you like and can get in touch with. Make sure they have a great office staff who can relay messages and help you keep track of your health needs. In the meantime, here is a handy checklist of tests that are important to all of us, but especially men: • Blood Pressure • Cholesterol • Colorectal cancer (Colon cancer kills more than 56,000 people every year. But the CDC says that nearly 60% of those deaths could be prevented if everyone was screened properly and treated appropriately. • Immunizations For video links and more information see this article on our site at: www.thecurrenthub.com. David A. Martin, RN, CRNFA, is the President and CEO of VeinInnovations. Martin founded VeinInnovations in 2002 as the first facility of its kind in Atlanta to offer every available technique for the treatment of venous insufficiency and varicose and spider veins. With offices in Atlanta and Johns Creek, VeinInnovations is widely regarded as the Atlanta area leader in office-based, minimally invasive treatment of venous disease. More than 90 percent of treatments done by VeinInnovations are covered by insurance. For more information, visit www.veininnovations.com.
health&wellness presented by North Fulton Hospital
A GAMBLE THAT PAYS BIG REWARDS By Debbie Keel When gambling first became legal in my hometown of New Orleans, like everyone else, I couldn’t wait for the first casino to open. I’d never been to Las Vegas and thought I might really enjoy making some extra cash just by pulling the arm of a slot machine (Yes, I know that no one does that anymore) or rolling the dice at a craps table.
Teresa Urquhart and Debbie Keel.
Well, it didn’t take me long to figure out what others older than me seemed to already know: the house always wins. Since then I’ve learned that an occasional trip to Vegas or to Harrah’s in New Orleans can be loads of fun as long as you plan on giving a certain amount of money to the casino. What I am really looking forward to in September is a chance to gamble away some of my hard earned cash for a good cause, specifically efforts to enable women in metro Atlanta to detect and survive breast cancer. For three years North Fulton Hospital has presented the Power of Pink, an event benefitting Susan G.
Komen’s Atlanta Afilliate. The largest event of its kind in North Fulton County, it’s been a fun and touching daytime event attended by more than 300 area women and a few brave men. Now North Fulton Hospital is gearing up for its biggest Power of Pink event yet, a Las Vegas-style Casino Night. It will be held at 6 p.m., Saturday, September 27, at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta on Windward Parkway. As in past years, this year’s fundraiser will feature a Survivor Fashion Show, where area breast cancer survivors will walk the runway. But it will be followed by dancing, fabulous food and drinks, and a Casino Night with Las Vegas style games such as blackjack and roulette. The event will still focus on area survivors and on raising funds for Komen Atlanta but provide a fun way for all of us to lose our money—try your hand at the casino tables to help increase your chances of winning one of the 10 fabulous raffle prizes, each valued at $250 or greater! Tickets are $100 each and include entrance to all event activities, plus two drink tickets and a casino chip voucher. For even more fun, purchase the optional High Roller add-on—two additional drink tickets, four raffle tickets, and one additional casino chip voucher (a $200 value!)—for a special online price of $125. Tickets are available now at www.komenatlanta.org. Sponsorships are also still welcome, as well as In-Kind donations. For information on sponsorship and donation opportunities, contact Kimberly King at 770-751-2867. Bring your significant other or guest (don’t worry, there will be televisions with that night’s college football games on) and for once, be happy to gamble your money away!
North Fulton Hospital Community Calendar Sept–Oct 2014 SUPPORT GROUPS Lupus Support Group
Water Birth
Third Saturday of every month, WomenHeart 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Classroom C. Support Group Informal meetings to share expeSecond Tuesday of every month, riences and learn from others. 7:30 p.m., Classroom C. The Na- Guest speakers occasionally tional Coalition for Women with present and we also participate in Heart Disease brings support and some Lupus Foundation of Amereducation to women who are at ica events. Contact Julie for info: risk or who already have heart lupusgroup4roswell@gmail.com disease. Call Rebecca at or 404-626-2394. 770 658-4796 or email WHFultonCo@womenheart.org.
Thursday 9/11, 9/25, 10/9, and 10/23. 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. Call 770- 751-2660 for more information and to register.
Maternity Tours
Ostomy Support Group
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Caring, Sharing, & Learning: Breast Cancer Support Group
American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR*
Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6 p.m. Cope and connect with others who are facing the same struggles. Please call Micah Brown, RN, Breast Health Nurse Navigator, at 770-751-2556 for location and to register.
Saturday 9/13, 10/25, and 11/8.. 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
Look Good, Feel Better
Saturday 9/27 and 10/25. The Diabetes Association of Atlanta (DAA) offers classes at North Fulton Hospital to teach diabetes SPECIAL EVENTS self-management skills. Call Katie at 404-527-7180 for more Power of Pink information and to register. Saturday, 9/27; Check-In starts at 6:00 p.m. This year’s Power of Childbirth Preparation Saturday, 9/20 and 10/18. 9:00 Pink will include our Survivor a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Active class Fashion Show and a Casino Night. consisting of both lecture and dis- For information about sponsorcussion/sharing. Topics include ships or tickets, call anatomy and physiology; nutrition 770-751-2867. and fitness; discomforts of preg-
Please join one of our Women’s Health nurses in the hospital Third Tuesday of every month, atrium on alternating Tuesdays at Babysitting 6:30 p.m., Classroom C. This 4 p.m. and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Workshop group is open to anyone who has for a guided tour of the Labor and Saturday 9/27. 9 or will have an ostomy and any Delivery suites, Mother/Baby a.m.–2 p.m. Sunfriends, family or supporters. The Unit and the Neonatal ICU. The day 10/19, 11/9. meeting structure is informal with tour last approximately one hour. 1-5:30 p.m. group discussion and guest Please call 770-751-2660 for the Teaches children speakers to be scheduled at varischedule and to register. ages 11–14 how ous times throughout the year. to be prepared Call John Dorso at 678-694and responsible 8726 to register or to obtain more information. . There will be no babysitters. Bring a doll or stuffed meetings in August but will resume animal and a sack lunch and drink. $30. September 16.
Wednesday, 9/10 and 11/12. 10 a.m. to noon. A cosmetologist will discuss how to care for skin and hair to combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Free make-up and skin care products are provided. 1-800-227-2345 to register.
Epilepsy Support Group The third Wednesday of every month, 7-9pm 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 770-667-9363.
and SURVIVOR FASHION SHOW
Diabetes SelfManagement Workshop
nancy; stages of labor and what to expect; cesarean birth; medications; possible complications; postpartum care; and comfort, relaxation, breathing and coping techniques for labor support. $100 per couple; registration required.
*AHA Disclaimer: The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in BLS, ACLS, and PALS and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the American Heart Association, and any fees charged for such a course do not represent income to the Association
20
HEALTH
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
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GAINING AN APPRECIATION FOR EVERYDAY LIFE Most of us can’t imagine how we would handle the news if we were diagnosed with a brain tumor. For Paul Romanick, it meant taking stock of what he’d done in his life and making plans for new chapters. Fortunately, the skilled physicians at North Fulton Hospital were prepared to help him through surgery and on to recovery so he could continue to live his very full life. Despite growing up in a tough area outside of New York City, Paul Romanick discovered the arts in 6th grade and has played harmonica for many years. He has even played with Jim Fadden from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. He also devotes much of his life to helping others through his Harps for Angels program, which provides harmonicas to autistic children, and his Citrus Solution carpet cleaning franchises, which help veterans get on their feet. After a workout in December, Paul met his wife for breakfast, and she immediately knew something was wrong. His speech and facial muscles had been affected, so they headed for the hospital. “My blood pressure was 193 over 91,” said Paul, “and when they got it down, they sent me for an MRI.” Dr. Bart MacDonald, a neurosurgeon at North Fulton Hospital was on call that day, and he went to deliver the results from the MRI. While he was there, he explained that surgery was necessary and that Dr. Jennifer Tirino, who is board certified in Otology, Neurotology, and Skull Base Surgery, would be helping him during the procedure. “I really appreciated Dr. MacDonald’s honesty THE SURGERY when he brought me the TOOK A results,” said Paul. “He GRUELING 14 came right to the point HOURS TO COMPLETE AND and told us he had good news and bad news. The TESTED THE good news was that the SKILLS OF DR. tumor in my brain was beMACDONALD nign, and the bad news AND DR. TIRINO. was that it was really big. Dr. McDonald’s confidence was contagious. We had great faith in the McDonald/Torino team.” “Paul had a brain tumor called a vestibular schwannoma,” said Dr. MacDonald, “and while it’s not very common, it is common enough that most people know someone through their network of friends who has had one.” According to Dr. MacDonald, these tumors grow from the nerves used for balance, which are in a bundle with the facial nerve and the hearing nerve. Because the tumor is in close proximity to those nerves, it can be tricky to get out and can result in fa-
“The good news was that the tumor in my brain was benign, and the bad news was that it was really big.” Paul Romanick and Dr. Bart MacDonald.
cial paralysis. Dr. MacDonald also explained that this kind of tumor also causes hearing loss, and the hearing loss is frequently what leads to the discovery of the tumor. Some people notice hearing loss in one ear, ringing or an imbalance when they walk, while other patients don’t have symptoms at all. “We realized that Paul did have some hearing loss caused by the tumor,” said Dr. MacDonald. “Paul attributed the hearing loss to years in the military, playing music, and manufacturing. In truth the tumor was partially to blame.” Because the tumor didn’t require emergency surgery, Paul enjoyed the holidays with his family and scheduled his surgery for January 17th. “The days leading up to my surgery were interesting,” said Paul. “It was like watching my funeral without dying. You don’t know how much you impact the world until this kind of thing happens to you, and it was very gratifying to see how many people lives I have I touched.” The surgery took a grueling 14 hours to complete and tested the skills of Dr. MacDonald and Dr. Tirino. Dr. Tirino would use her skills to preserve as much of Paul’s hearing as she possibly could. After the surgery, Paul stayed at North Fulton Hospital for four days before returning Dr. Jennifer Tirino
home. Many patients might have needed more time in the hospital to heal, but he was determined to get home as quickly as possible, and therapy played a large part in his success. “The nurses and therapists at North Fulton Hospital were great at getting me back on my feet,” said Paul. “The other critical part for me was playing the harmonica. I refused to give that up, even when some of my facial muscles were affected by the surgery. I had to keep at it with my harmonica, and now I’m playing again.” Paul returned to work the day after he was discharged from North Fulton Hospital, and he’s regained almost all of his muscle tone, though some of his hearing loss is permanent. “Typically all of the cancer is gone after the surgery,” said Dr. MacDonald. “We do MRIs to monitor the healing process because there might be potential that we missed some of the tumor during the surgery. If more treatment is needed, nonsurgical options are available and are most likely all that will be needed.” “As fit as I was for a man in his 60s,” said Paul, “I never dreamed that I would have a brain tumor. The experience has changed my life in many ways, and I can’t thank Dr. MacDonald, Dr. Tirino, and North Fulton Hospital enough for the wonderful care they have given me. I knew I hadn’t finished all the things I wanted to do, and now I have an even greater appreciation for each day that I can impact someone else’s life through my work.”
A busy mother and athlete, Dr. Margarett Ellison understands how women can forget to schedule their check-ups or get their mammograms. As a board certified gynecologic oncologist, she also knows first-hand how important it is for women to take the time to put themselves first, and she truly loves walking with her patients through diagnosis, all stages of treatment, and recovery.
Q
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE ONCOLOGY AS YOUR SPECIALTY?
ANSWER: I never thought that I’d go into oncology. I thought I’d like variety in what I do, but when I went through my first oncology rotation as a resident, I fell in love. The patients I see are so appreciative for everything we do, and it makes every single day totally worthwhile. It is amazing to take care of patients who face such adversity with such grace and a bright outlook. For me, it’s extremely rewarding!
Birmingham in OB/Gyn and my fellowship in Gyn Oncology at Brown University Women and Infants Hospital.
Q
TELL US ABOUT YOUR TIME IN THE ARMY.
Q
WHERE WERE YOU PRACTICING BEFORE YOU MOVED TO ATLANTA?
ANSWER: After my fellowship, I joined the army and I was stationed at Brooke Army Medical Center for 3 years. Then, I was deployed to Kuwait in 2003.
ANSWER: After Kuwait, I moved to California and I practiced in Los Angeles for 6 years. Then, in 2009, I moved back to Atlanta and worked at Piedmont and then Northside Hospital.
Q
PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY.
ANSWER: My husband, Dr. Patrick Kenney, is also a surgeon at North Fulton Hospital. We live in Sandy Springs, and we have four boys. The oldest is 19 and is at the Citadel, and the other three are in school at Woodward Academy.
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did a year and a half of law school. Then about a year and a half ago, I started taking spin classes and running, and last fall, I did my first sprint triathlon. I have now completed 8 triathlons of varying distances and I will be competing in my first half Ironman on September 28th in Augusta. I also have plans to compete in a full Ironman in 2015 in Florida.
Q
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGIST?
ANSWER: I love the long relationships that I have with my patients. I am with them from diagnosis through the rest of their lives. The relationships really make every day fantastic. I also enjoy the wide range of care that I’m able to give. As a gynecologic oncologist, I am trained in all aspects of care so I can be holistic in my approach to caring for the patient. I’m always thinking of the whole picture for the patient, including pain management or palliative care, not just a treatment. As a result, each case is different and complex. I’m always working to create the right treatment for each patient.
Dear Readers,
Q
YOU ARE SKILLED WITH ROBOTIC SURGERY AND ARE THE ONLY SURGEON IN THE METROATLANTA AREA WHO PERFORMS HYSTERECTOMIES SOLELY THROUGH THE BELLY BUTTON. HOW HAS ROBOTICS INFLUENCED YOUR PRACTICE?
It has come to our attention that patients who visited our Emergency Department experienced longer waits than usual during recent weeks. First, let me say how sorry I am if your family or you were one of those patients. North Fulton Hospital, like hospitals across our community and country, has been completing the installment of its Electronic Health Record (EHR).
ANSWER: Robotics is exhilarating. It is less taxing mentally and physically, so that I can give each patient the very best care possible, even if I’ve been in the OR for hours and have already performed other surgeries.
Q
HEALTH
In the ER, this caused delays in our ability to treat non-critical or non-emergent patients as quickly and efficiently as we typically do. Our ER has provided extraordinary service to both seriously ill trauma patients and those requiring urgent care on many levels for more than 30 years.
WHERE DID YOU ATTEND COLLEGE AND MEDICAL SCHOOL?
ANSWER: I attended Emory for my undergraduate studies and went to Mercer for Medical School. I completed my residency at UAB
Left: Dr. Margarett Ellison was deployed to Kuwait in 2003. Above: Preparing for her first half Ironman on September 28th in Augusta.
Q
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING?
ANSWER: I used to be an education junkie. After my board certifications in 2007, I completed my Masters in Hospital Administration and then I
We were unable to keep that commitment to our patients recently and want to express our heartfelt apology. We are committed to delivering the timely quality care you have come to expect from North Fulton Hospital and already our waits have begun to return to normal. Please know that these inconveniences were truly temporary and were a result of our continuing efforts to provide advanced medical care for every patient. Best regards, Deborah C. Keel Chief Executive Officer
September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
&
Q A with Dr.Margarett Ellison
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22 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
CHECK UP FOR CHICKS EXPANDING AT NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL Three years ago, North Fulton Hospital launched its Breast Program, Check Up For Chicks. This summer, the program has expanded to become a complete women’s oncology program with screenings and a wide array of treatments for both breast and gynecologic cancers so women can lead longer healthier lives. Why should I get screened for cancer? Finding and treating cancer in its earlier stages is much easier, and potentially life-saving, than waiting until the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. “Most cancers start with abnormal cells growing out of control,” said Dr. Margarett Ellison, a Gynecologic Oncologist at North Fulton Hospital. “Sometimes you will experience symptoms, but often you will not. That is why regular screening and selfexaminations are so important.” Getting screened really does make a difference. Every year cancer claims the lives of more than 500,000 men and women in the United States. Fortunately, the survival rates for all cancers are improving. It is 66 percent for cancer cases diagnosed between 1996 and 2002, compared to 51
percent for cases between 1975 and 1977, due in large part to earlier diagnosis and better treatments. What kinds of screening tests do I need? Check Up for Chicks encourages women to put themselves first and get screened for breast and gynecological cancers. It really does make a difference. Dr. Margarett Ellison Women should begin performing a breast self-exam in their 20s, add a clinical breast exam in their 30s, and start having a mammogram at age 40 to help find breast cancer early. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Approximately three-fourths of new cases are in women over the age of 50. “Another screening recommended for women is a Pap test to detect pre-cancerous cells in the cervix or cervical cancer,” said Dr. Ellison. “The test should be done at least every three years, even after menopause. Treatment is available to prevent cervical cancer from
HEALTH
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developing or when it is found early.” What services does Check Up For Chicks and North Fulton Hospital provide? Check Up For Chicks is led by North Fulton Hospital’s multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and staff members who are involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and support of cancer patients. These cancer specialists make sure that each patient has an integrated plan that addresses his or her particular type of cancer with the most advanced and appropriate therapies available, while also supporting the immune system, managing pain and improving quality of life. “We are very proud to be offering a broader array of services for our cancer patients,” said Dr. Ellison, “including our new Outpatient Infusion Center where patients can receive chemotherapy and other IV medications without the hassle of traveling to another facility.” For more information about breast and gynecological cancers, visit www.CheckUpForChicks.com, and for a referral to a physician, call 770-751-2600.
NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL AND AVALON JOIN FORCES FOR BREAST CANCER For many women, a diagnosis of breast cancer can be overwhelming, but two unlikely partners have joined forces to make a difference to a group of local breast cancer patients and survivors and to help support breast cancer research. North Fulton Hospital and Avalon are working together to create the fashion show that is the centerpiece of the Power of Pink fundraiser held each year in September. The Power of Pink is a fashion show and Casino Night fundraiser presented by North Fulton Hospital with proceeds benefiting the Atlanta Chapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Avalon, the new resort inspired mixed use community planned to open in October on Old Milton Parkway west of GA 400, agreed to sponsor the fashion show featuring patients from North Fulton Hospital’s Breast Program for the second year in a row this year. “There was never any doubt that we wanted to help these women regain their selfconfidence by supporting this
Williams, and Lisa Young. In April of this year, Carol Darras was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had been carrying around a mammogram order for a few months, and had been so busy preparing to move that getting the mammogram had slipped to the bottom of the list. “I had been faithfully having yearly mammograms,” said Carol. “It never occurred to me that I would ever have breast cancer, and when I found out, I was shocked and angry because it didn’t fit into my schedule. I have met so many loving, brave, positive, scared, funny women Dorothy Grindstaff. on this journey, and I can’t wait to participate in the Power of remained was to determine Pink!” which of our retailers would be An 8 year survivor of breast the best fit for the occasion, and we’re thrilled to be providing the cancer, Christine Shea was diagnosed in 2006. She has since models with attire and become an active supporter of accessories.” Komen Atlanta. Ten women from North “When I was diagnosed with Fulton Hospital’s Breast breast cancer,” said Christine, Program have agreed to model for the fundraiser this year: Jane “my daughters were 2 ½ and 1. Chastain, Sybil Carpenter, Carol The first thing I thought was ‘Who is going to raise my beautiDarras, Saddreama Gray, Dorothy Grindstaff, Nancy Hof, ful girls?’ That was the moment Cindy Janis, Christine Shea, Jan when I decided that cancer was inspiring fashion show,” said Liz Gillespie, VP of Marketing for Avalon. “The only thing that
not going to beat me. I give back now by having a fundraiser every year for Komen Atlanta to help women who are unable to afford mammograms so they can detect cancer early.” Dorothy Grindstaff was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011, and since then has also fought rectal cancer. “I’m very excited that I will able to show people that life goes on after cancer,” said Dorothy. “Cancer does not have to define our lives. I never gave in to the cancer and I have always had a positive outlook.” The ladies are all excited about seeing the new fall lines from each of the retailers, and about shopping at Avalon when it opens in October. Guests at Power of Pink will see a selection of items from each of the participating retailers during the fashion show, and will be able to purchase any of the items in stores at Avalon once they are open or online. North Fulton Hospital has hosted the Power of Pink three previous years, and raised more than $25,000 last year. The event will be hosted on Saturday,
September 27, at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta on Windward Parkway, and will begin at 6:00 with a cocktail hour before the fashion show. The Casino Night activities, including gaming, dancing, dinner, drinks, and dessert will follow the fashion show. “We really have a great time at the event,” said North Fulton Hospital’s CEO, Debbie Keel, “but the fashion show is definitely the best part of the event. We are thrilled to be able to give these fabulous ladies a chance to shine, and we couldn’t do it without the generosity of all the people at Avalon who jumped right in to help us.” For more information about Power of Pink or to purchase tickets, visit KomenAtlanta.org or call 404-814-0052. Donations may be made in honor of the models or anyone who has been impacted by breast cancer by calling the number above as well. For more information about Avalon, visit experienceavalon.com or find them on Facebook as Avalon Insider.
24 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
Georgia Ensemble Theatre and Marietta Players offer a variety of plays for coming season featuring
COUNTRY ROCK TO THE HOLOCAUST By Matthew W. Quinn
Local theater enthusiasts will have plenty of options this coming season courtesy of Georgia Ensemble Theatre in Roswell and the Marietta Players in Marietta Square. GET, the Roswell Cultural Arts Center’s resident professional theatrical company, was founded in 1993. Its premiere play was You Can’t Take It With You. Since then it has staged 141 productions, including The Lion in Winter and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story. Beginning in its 2001-2002 season, GET has performed many matinees for students, including The Miracle Worker, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Great Expectations. This season’s first production is Pump Boys and Dinettes. “We started last season with Almost Heaven: John Denver’s America,” said GET Resources Manager Michael Van Osch. “That was just such a big hit that we’re following it up this fall with Pump Boys and Dinettes.” According to a GET release, Pump Boys and Dinettes takes place at the Double Cupp Diner Highway 57 in North Carolina. Travelers can stop in for beer, coffee, or a slice of pie, while the men from the nearby gas station drop in to visit the lovely Cupp sisters and play a high-octane blend of country-western, bluegrass, and rock and roll. GET Artistic Director Bob Farley, who co-founded the theater, said Pump Boys and Dinettes has been around since 1982 and was GET’s first musical during the 1996 Olympics. “It was Georgia Ensemble’s first major hit,” he said. “A lot of people came to see it.”
Farley chose Pump Boys because its fantastic non-stop country rock, rockabilly, and rock and roll music has impressed people since 1982. He’ll be directing and working with some of Atlanta’s best singers and musicians. Left to right: Robert Farley (director), Jeremy Wood, and Dolph Amick. Photo by Martina Schmidt
“IT WAS GEORGIA ENSEMBLE’S FIRST MAJOR HIT” Cover photo of Pump Boys & Dinettes L-R – Jeremy Wood, Dolph Amick, Mark Schroeder, Chris Damiano, Seated are: Lyndsay Ricketson, Molly Coyne. Photo by Dan Carmody/Studio 7
25 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
Farley chose it for the coming season because its fantastic non-stop country rock, rockabilly, and rock and roll music has impressed people since 1982. He’ll be directing and working with some of Atlanta’s best singers and musicians to make this production happen. Pump Boys and Dinettes will run from Sept. 11 to Sept. 28. But that’s not the only play GET is putting on this season.
Homers, Feb. 26-March 15. In this world premiere, Atlanta sportswriter Leigh Elder loves and is loyal to her hometown teams the Braves, Hawks, and Falcons. However, she’s offered a dream job in Los Angeles but her biggest fan—her father— stands in her way. “Can a homer ever really leave home?”
The Elephant Man, Oct. 30 to Nov. 16. This drama, which won the Tony Award for Best Play, tells the tale of the deformed John Merrick, who rose from being an abandoned freak show attraction to a favorite of British high society but could not become a man like any other.
My Fair Lady, April 9-26. In this beloved Broadway musical, Covent Garden flower peddler Eliza Doolittle agrees to take speech lessons from phonetician Henry Higgins to fulfill her dream of workOne Slight Hitch, Jan. 8-25, ing in a flower shop. She succeeds 2015. Written by Lewis Black of so well that she outgrows her low soThe Daily Show, this play follows cial status and becomes a major the efforts of Doc and Delia part of Higgins’ life. Coleman to provide the lavish wedFarley said his goal in picking out ding they never had for their eldest the shows was to give the theater’s daughter Courtney. The groom is patrons an eclectic experience. perfect, the dress is perfect, the Although Farley cannot pick any faordered decorations are perfect, but vorites, everyone at GET is looking then the doorbell rings and “one forward to the premiere of Homers. slight hitch wreaks glorious havoc The GET commissions a new play on all of their plans.” each season, and Continues on p26
26 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
GET and Marietta Players… continued from p10 Homers was written specifically for this season. Writer Jacob York, who participated in past GET productions, proposed the synopsis to Farley. Farley told him to go ahead with the first draft. “It’s a very good play,” Farley said. “Very funny and very touching.” Van Osch said this was the GET’s 22nd year bringing professional theatre to North Fulton. The organization prides itself on putting on fantastic, professional performances that bring patrons not just from North Fulton, but from almost every county in Georgia. Performance times and ticket prices are available at the GET website, www.get.org or by calling 770-641-1260.
Those living in East Cobb can travel east to see the GET performances or they can go west to Marietta Square for the Marietta Players. According to its website, the group, an offshoot of the Young Actors Playhouse, was founded in 2013 by the YAP Artistic Director Don Goodner. Like the GET, their new season begins this month. The company performs at the Theatre in the Square in historic downtown Marietta. From Sept. 12 to Sept. 28, the Marietta Players will perform The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Marietta Players co-owner Stacey Goodner said the production is a musical comedy featuring adult actors playing a group of children participating in a spelling bee. It’s a funny take on these nerdy kids and the antics they get up to. “It was on Broadway,” she said. “It was a fairly popular show.” According to a company’s release, the remaining plays this season are: The Diary of Anne Frank, Nov. 7 to Nov. 23. Based on the bestselling diary of a young woman who hid from the Nazis in 1940s Amsterdam, this story is not only a reminder of humanity’s dark side but also the triumph of the human spirit. Directed by Ian Gibson.
Above, co-owner Stacey Goodner stands outside the Theatre in the Square, home of Marietta Players.
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Marcus Weathersby, Elliott Smith, and Megan Schwartz pictured in last year’s production of A Christmas Carol . More songs and music are planned for the 2014 play.
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A Christmas Carol, Dec. 5 to Dec. 21. An original based on Charles Dickens’ ghost story, it tells the tale of how the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghost of a former business partner and three spirits who teach him the true meaning of Christmas. This production features more songs and music than last year’s. Written and directed by Don Goodner. The Mystery of Edwin Drood!, Feb. 13 to Feb. 22, 2015. A play within a play, the production features a zany Victorian musical troupe— featuring a choirmaster madly in love with one of his students no less—putting on a production of Charles Dickens’ unfinished work, only to have the titular character disappear on a stormy Christmas Eve. Was he murdered? If so, who did it? Watch this play and find out. Smoke on the Mountain, April 17 to May 3. This bluegrass musical brings the Sanders Family back to the Theatre in the Square. The family, a traveling group returning to performing after a five-year hiatus, assists Pastor Oglethorpe, a young and enthusiastic Baptist minister, in his efforts to bring Mount Pleasant Baptist Church into “the modern world.” Though the family tries to appear perfect in the eyes of a congregation that wants to be inspired by their songs, things go awry and they reveal their true— and hilariously imperfect—natures. Stacey, her husband Don, and Jenn Loudermilk are the ones who decide what plays will be performed each season. “We think about what would go over well in the Marietta area and pair that up with what we have an interest in,” she said. For example, Don is a fan of Drood, while many of their good friends who are actors wanted to participate in Spelling Bee and Smoke on the Mountain. Meanwhile, Stacey herself is looking forward to The Diary of Anne Frank. Although it is a more somber work, it’s based on one of her favorite childhood books. The Marietta Players have formed a partnership with the Anne Frank in the World 1929-1945 exhibit in Sandy Springs and a Holocaust survivor will come speak at one of the performances. “It should be a really powerful piece,” she said. For performance times and tickets, visit www.mariettaplayers.com or call 678-224-8095.
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September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
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28 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
COMMUNITY
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THE LOOMING SUBURBAN SPRAWL BOMB
Site of new housing development under construction in Roswell.
By Mike Hadden
Over 90% of the Atlanta region lives what is loosely called the suburbs. So, if the overwhelming majority of people live in suburbia, it must be the right choice, right? Well, I wouldn’t call Suburbia the pragmatic choice. Suburbia stretches resources and eats up land in ways that can’t be sustained in the long run. Currently we are seeing suburbs attempting to become more walkable and significant development being focused on rebuilding our urban cores. However, if you’ve looked around recently, there is a lot of suburban style development going up around the northern ‘burbs. That’s great economically in the near term but it might not be so good in the long term. It brings more residents, it requires new infrastructure, it creates the need for all things that cities must provide. These things cost money and often turn into long-term liabilities for cities and municipalities. The organization StrongTowns has been illustrating the high costs of sprawl to cities across the country in an alarmingly effective way. Their Curbside Chat is a bit like taking Morpheus’ red pill in the Matrix. Their premise goes like this: Our ability to grow by taking on more debt is waning. Federal and State incentives for growth will become more scarce. The tax productivity of auto-dependent places is lower on a per acre basis than the pre-WWII city design. Cities need to stop pursuing the short-term prosperity that will result in long-term liability. They refer to the post WWII development pattern as the Suburban Experiment and compare it to a Ponzi scheme. The suburban development pattern requires new growth to pay for long-
If we want to build more productive places, that reduce environmental and economic waste, we need to be aggressively building mixed-use, walkable places that follow the pre-WWII development pattern. The New Urbanists have been doing this for over 30 years. It’s time to get serious about it. Michael Hadden authors the blog newurbanroswell.com. You may contact him at: michaeldhadden@gmail.com
29 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
term liabilities. Eventually, the growth stops and maintenance comes due. They argue very effectively that the most financially viable development pattern for cities is one that resembles the way we designed cities prior to WWII, prior to the suburban development pattern. If they are right, and our economic growth is stunted by sprawl, then why aren’t we doing anything about it? If we admit they are right, then we are saying we have been wrong for all of these decades. We are saying that we sunk our national wealth into a development pattern that caused us to go broke. It married us to our cars and our commutes and it drained our municipalities of cash to build and maintain roads that don’t generate enough in property tax to maintain themselves and it unfairly burdened future generations with debt that was ultimately wasted. It’s hard to admit when you made a wrong turn. And that’s why we aren’t making wholesale changes to our development pattern. So, if we are too proud to admit we made a bad financial bet on an inefficient development pattern, will we do anything to protect the environment? The suburban lifestyle seeks to create refuge in the environment but in it’s effort to create an idyllic home in the woods, it is actually wrecking the very woods that it seeks to be so close to. According to a joint study released in July by the US Geological Survey and NC State University, sprawl in the southeast will increase by 110 to 180 percent between now and 2060. The piedmont region between Raleigh and Atlanta will experience the largest growth. By 2060, we could see a virtually uninterrupted stretch of development on that corridor. This will have huge environmental impacts in a region that has some of the most biodiversity in the US. I don’t know about you but I think developing generic suburban style development from here to Raleigh is a travesty. If we continue in that direction our places could look like the suburban transect that planner Dan Zack designed to effectively illustrate the difference between Suburbia and the type of development that new urbanists advocate for. In Suburbia, we divide uses and limit connectivity, while New Urbanist developments combine uses and encourage connectivity. Juxtaposed, next to each other, it’s easy to see the difference.
30 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
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With a little careful planning,
GARDENS PROVIDE YEAR-ROUND COLOR AND INTEREST
Hyacinths and tulips steal the show in this spring container garden. By Nancy Wallace
No, it’s not quite “tulip time,” but if you don’t order bulbs now and plant them this fall, you’ll miss out on the spring bling. Even after the relentless chill earlier this year, these tulips and hyacinths burst from the soil like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of winter. The photo above was taken in early April, a little later than “normal,” but nevertheless spring came through without missing a beat. And who wouldn’t welcome such a splash of color and fragrance from the winter garden? I order hundreds of bulbs every fall for my clients’ container gardens and flowerbeds, utilizing a number of rep-
utable mail order catalogs. Over the years, I’ve found that mail-order bulbs out-perform those purchased in a garden center, and the choices are phenomenal. For deer proof gardens, I use daffodils and hyacinths. Tulips aren’t deer proof, so I use them behind fences and in containers where the deer can’t get them. When selecting bulbs, choose colors
other way to prevent disease from spreading among plants. Using a little soap and water and a scrub brush will quickly clean up garden tools. Some pruners are not stainless steel, and plant residue can damage blades over the long term. Keeping tools clean and dry ensures that they will last longer, while also protecting the health of your plants. A little vegetable oil around the pruning mechanism keeps pruners well-lubricated and prevents blades from sticking. Each month I highlight a plant or two that I think is garden-worthy. These plants are often for sale in garden centers when they are in bloom or at the peak of their performance, which makes it easy for us to imagine how they will look in our gardens. This month, meet a Southeastern native Callicarpa americana (American Beautyberry), or the “beautyberry bush” as it is commonly known. Small lavender flowers appear in the leaf axils along the branches in summer, followed by prolific clusters of purple fruit in September and October. The fruits attract birds, making it a good choice for wildlife habitats. When planted en masse in woodland garden settings, you can expect an increase in berry production. The flowers and berries appear on new growth, so prune in late spring (at the same time crape myrtles are pruned) to keep the plants tidy and well shaped. (Photos by Nancy Wallace.) Reach Nancy on her blog: wallacegardens.tumblr.com
Southeastern native Callicarpa americana (American Beautyberry)
31 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
of the same hue and bloom time to achieve the best spring flower show. Tulips, hyacinths and daffodils should be planted about eight inches below the surface of the soil, which is about the depth of a narrow trowel. Planting bulbs this deep protects them from extremely cold winters, as well as the “false springs” that we encounter here in Georgia (the constant freezing and thawing and re-freezing of the ground). Once the bulbs are planted at the proper depth, use a combination of violas, pansies, and foliage plants (like heuchera, acorus, and dusty miller) on top of the bulbs. With a little careful planning, you’ll have lovely flowerbed combinations to enjoy this winter, and the surprise of all those bulbs coming up next year after a predictably long winter. Don’t forget to cut back summer perennials in the garden, so that falling leaves don’t collect around them. Keeping the garden tidy allows good air circulation around plants, and helps prevent disease. Fall is also the best time to divide perennials like daisies, black-eyed susans, day lilies, hostas and many others. The temperatures are cooler, so it’s a pleasant time to be working in the garden. Consider having a neighborhood “perennial block party” where the neighbors bring plants from their gardens to share with each other. This is a great way to stay connected, build unity in the community, and share garden experiences. Before you head out to tackle those garden chores, take a few minutes to clean shovels and pruners. This is an-
32 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
FOOD
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SOME SWEET AND SMOKIN’ NEW RESTAURANTS
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Hannah Johnson displays a world of sweets at Sugar Shack.
food report is all good. I dined with a friend and we had a very Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em. In Johns impressive burger and an equally Creek there is a brand new joint rave worthy turkey burger. I know called Utopia Bar & Grill located at these are not complex culinary 10305 Medlock Bridge, very close to creations but oh so hard to do one of my all time favorites, Sugo. details this well. Our burgers were The skinny on this place? It’s a man served with a perfect char, fresh cave. The décor is wood, leather, large Hi Def TVs, pool table and it is all tasteful, comfy and well done. Thinking of building that basement out? Don’t bother; this place can be your favorite hangout. The twist here is the smoking lamp is always lit. Yes, that’s right Marlborough men and ladies this one is for you. An ashtray on every table, air cleaners pumping away, toasted bun and delicious hand cut and everyone on staff carries a fries. The kitchen is aiming high lighter. and I was impressed. This is not These days it’s not too much to greasy heavy bar food. Well done say the only places you can still light gents, I approve, cook on. up are mostly places you would not New shack on Canton Street. take your mom. But that changes! Have you seen the new little bakRight here and right now! And the ery behind The Fickle Pickle on By Frank Mack
Ohhhh the smells, I get all weak in the knees...
33 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
You can understand why I’ve got to get back to the Sugar Shack
Canton Street in Roswell? It’s called The Sugar Shack and that’s no lie. It is in fact a shack, with a bakery inside and a great big old patio all tree covered in front. They serve coffee and espresso, a bit of breakfast, and a wide array of items from a bakery on display for all to see. Ohhhh the smells, I get all weak in the knees. And here is its greatest secret, they have parking! Think mornings, on Canton Street, under a tree with no traffic. When I arrive at the pearly gates this is what I want on the other side. So, everyone, listen up. This place is a bakery in a shack, off a gravel parking lot with our area’s natural beauty on their side. Throw some love into the baking, which they do as phenomenal pastry chefs and mmmmmm baby! Go enjoy a moment there with someone special. It’s nothing but a sweet pleasure and too dang good to be a secret. Speaking of pleasant surprises.
The Plum Cafe, on Plum Street, just off of Canton Street has really hit their stride. About two years ago I went through and thought it was a little old lady place. I even said: “Not enough going on to write about.” Well ladies and gents, I went back because of a picture they posted on Facebook of a gorgeous pork sandwich. I am here to eat my words. I went through everything on the menu or pretty close. I sat for a couple of hours with a vegan friend and we did not plan the meal—it just happened. But the timing was right and the chef amiable so we nibbled and tasted our way through the whole menu. Soups to sauce, roasted to raised. We ate and ate. Really put them through their paces. Total surprise drop in visit. This was a real test of their skills. My updated opinion? The owner and chef, Monica Bolsoni, of The Plum Street Cafe knows more about good cooking than me Continues on p34
Japanese Steak & Sushi Now Open, New Management
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Buy 2 Ro FF O G e F t One FRlls L A H l a i c e p Fri – Sat EE! Rolls S Thurs Sun – Only SPECIALS!Dine-in Only Dine-in Dinner starting nightly at 4:30 12040 Etris Rd. #150 Roswell, GA 30075 (In Sweet Apple Village)
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34 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
FOOD
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New Restaurants… continued from p33
and I would say she’s in the top 10 percentile of chef ’s in our area. She takes the influence of her family and cultural experiences and is preparing a unique style that is all her own. It’s Latin with Portuguese and some Brazilian with a few other influences sprinkled throughout. I don’t want to pigeonhole her. I want you open to it. When you go, always get the soup, always ask for the limited specials and always save a spot for something sweet.
VUU Asian Bistro What is new with Vuu? Vuu Asian Bistro, located at 880 Woodstock Road in Roswell, is my oft mentioned and very favorite Asian fusion restaurant. These guys have done something really very dramatic. Same wow food delivered with loving service, coupled with same devotion to hand crafted freshness have a new patio. Why mention a new patio? In this area? Big deal right? Guys, this isn’t an ordinary patio. How to describe it? Shape wise it’s a big shiny box. From outside closed you’ll think a UFO has landed but from inside it is very classy and definitely a step above. It’s made from aluminum slats that open with a flick of the remote. In seconds it goes from a sealed weatherproof enclosure to a totally open air dining experience. It has an amazing ambient light system that changes and glows in the evening. It’s tabled with super comfy booths and small sitting tables. And, like I said, it is attached to one of my favorite kitchens. You got to see it to believe it. The whole thing springs from the mind of Aaron Vuu working with Scott Selzer of Arcadia Louvered Roofs, a small local design and manufacturer firm in Cumming. This is a homegrown Georgia company doing their design and manufacturing right here in Georgia. Local, local, local, these are my three favorite words when speaking of economics. Rumors and tidbits. Something really good is hiding in plain sight. Do you do Alive After Five? Find SnoBayou over by the bandstand in the round. These guys do handcrafted snowballs? I can’t even tell you what was in the bowl. Shaved ice, berries, gelato, a syrup, fruit and pretty much my whole face as I shoveled my way through two servings. Trust me, no shame, get a napkin, a spoon and go for it. And for followup there is Alpharetta’s Food Truck Alley. My goodness. It was good a few months back and as summer ends it’s just getting better. This is held every Thursday evening. Find it before the weather goes cold on us, it’s too good to miss. Last but not least I found a great new place in east Roswell called OTP Tap and Grill at 1475 Holcomb Bridge Road. If you’re a burger fan then you’ve got to check this place out because all their burgers are 50% Chuck, 35% Brisket and 15% Short Rib and served with hand cut fries. Just make sure to ask for extra napkins because they’re juicy and awesome!
Got a new favorite place or perhaps a hidden gem that needs to be discovered? Let me know via email at unleashedappetite@gmail.com.
KIDS/EDUC.
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September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
BRIEFS
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LET KIDS BE KIDS By Kay Paschal
On a recent cover of Atlantic magazine a grade-school boy is depicted wearing a helmet, knee pads, pillows attached to him front and back, and a stress-filled look on his face, holding the hand of his mom. The caption: "New research shows he'll grow up to be more fearful and less creative." The gist of the article titled, "Hey! Parents--Leave Those Kids Alone" is that parents today are so over-protective of their kids that much of the experience of childhood is now missing. For me it brought back >> KIDS & KAY memories of fall days playing in leaves, riding my bike, climbing trees, letting caterpillars walk along my arm, playing the creek, Kay Paschal, Owner and other nature Peachtree Park Prep driven activities. Washing my hands––maybe when I came in for dinner. Playing on a IPEMA approved playground––never. What has the current generation gained or lost from being raised very differently from the way their parents were raised and not only in the way that children play? Studies cited in this article advise that childhood injuries have remained pretty much the same since the 1970s despite all the "risk taking, discovery,
and creativity" we have taken out of playgrounds to keep our kids safe from falls. The reasoning given is that back in the day we were more careful because we took more risks and were rightly more fearful of falling. In the process we learned how to negotiate obstacles, think and reason out the consequences, decide to go ahead or not, and either fall (thus learning not to do this again) or were successful (thus gaining confidence and skills on many levels, physically as well as mentally). The studies that exist showing the over-use of antibiotics as well as the effects of over-washing/disinfecting our hands and environment that have resulted in stronger viruses and super-bugs, especially in young children and the elder are overwhelming. Advocating letting your child run wild and never washing their hands - totally not. Advocating not planning and engineering every aspect of your child's environment - totally.
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36 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
COMMUNITY
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LOCAL TEENS ASSISTING INTERNATIONAL CHARITY Will provide meals in exchange for Facebook likes By Matt Quinn Abbey Kochman, an eighthgrader at Autrey Mill Middle School in Johns Creek, and Dudley Merriam, an eighth-grader at Northwestern Middle School in Alpharetta have been playing together for about two years. Kochman said they both attended a music school in Roswell, and were paired together through the school’s “Rock U” program that assembles students into bands. Kochman is a vocalist and Merriam is a guitarist. “We’re both interested in the same music so it’s not hard to write songs together or pick songs to do,” Kochman said. They play a variety of songs to appeal to different audiences, but prefer older rock like that of Janis Joplin. They do, however, sprinkle in some contemporary material for variety. Since joining forces, they have come in second in Atlanta Parent’s Most Talented Kids contest in 2013 and were finalists in 2014. They have performed at charity events like 500 Songs for Kids at the Earl and at the Loft; at restaurants and festivals like the Johns Creeks Arts Festival, the Roswell Tap, and the City of Duluth’s Fourth of July celebration. They have also filmed a promo that has already appeared on television in Scandinavia and will air this fall on the Disney Channel. Due to their being finalists in the Most Talented Kids contest, they will participate in Atlanta Parent’s block party in October. However, before the block party, Abbey and Dudley will be helping the needy through the charity SERV International. According to the SERV International website, these projects include providing a dehydrated, fortified food product to the hungry in Kenya and the Dominican Republic, operating the
The local singing duo Abbey and Dudley will be feeding the hungry abroad through the magic of social media.
House of Hope orphanage in Kenya, and providing water systems throughout the world. As supporting artists, the duo will sponsor one meal for every “like” they receive on Facebook during the month of September. Merriam said they got involved with the project after SERV leaders saw their videos online. They met up and learned about other supporting artists and strategies they used to help SERV. “I think we should spread the campaign as far as we can to get as many people involved with SERV as possible,” he said. Kochman said she particularly liked how SERV helps people in different ways—feeding the hungry, sheltering the orphans, and providing water. She said they’re excited to be supporting artists. Those interested in supporting Abbey and Dudley’s campaign can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/AbbeyandDudley. Their performances can be viewed on YouTube at youtube.com/ user/abbeyanddudley.
To feed the hungry, send a “like” to: facebook.com/AbbeyandDudley
Homeschool Day In Roswell The Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau and “A Southern Trilogy: The Historic Homes of Roswell” will host a Homeschool Day for homeschool students on Friday, September 26, from 10 am to 4 pm. Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, and Smith Plantation will feature an open house format during those hours and tours will be available.
Prices through September 19 are $12 for adults and children; children under six are free. After September 19 prices are $15 for adults and children; children under six are free. Registration is required. To register and for more information, visit www.visitroswellga.com
Fall Break Craft and View for Cobb School Break Held Sept 15 through 19 the Discovery Center at the Chattahoochee Nature Center will host a week of Fall Break events featuring daily crafts and movies – a new theme each day. Crafts begin at 2:30pm, movies begin at 3pm. All ages welcomed. For more information and specific times on events please visit www.chattnaturecenter.org.
Johns Creek Rotary Club Donates Funds to DreamWeavers The Rotary Club of Johns Creek donated $1,000 of funds they raised to DreamWeavers of Georgia, a local non-profit that benefits foster children in Georgia. This donation to DreamWeavers will help fund many of the
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programs that support the "extra" needs of foster children in Georgia- the things that help to build self esteem, form friendships or learn new life skills. "This donation is important to helping us make foster children's dreams come true." said Fred Moeller of DreamWeavers. "We are hoping to have even more involvement with the local community so that we can support more of our needed programs for the children such as tutors or camps." The Rotary Club of Johns Creek meets every Monday at 12:15pm at the Johns Creek Baptist Church at 6910 McGinnis Ferry Road, directly across the street from Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Guests are always welcome!
Master Gardeners Host Composting Event The North Fulton Master Gardeners will be hosting a “how to” event on composting Sept. 20 at 10:30am at the Alpharetta Engineering/Public Works Department located at 1790 Hembree Road in Alpharetta. With north Georgia’s heavy clay soil, our vegetable, flower and shrub beds benefit from additional organic matter. Learn how you can create your own compost in this combined classroom and outside session. The class will cover the major steps involved, required ingredients, hot vs cold composting, various methods you can use and concerns. To for more info or to register, call (678) 297-6200 or visit www.nfmg.net.
Check Up Time The Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Roswell will host its 9th Annual Health Fair on Sept 27 from 10am to 2pm. The event is free and open to the public. There will be free health screenings, free refreshments, healthy cooking demonstrations, and prizes. Zion Missionary Baptist Church located at 888 Zion Circle, Roswell , GA 30075
37 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
COMMUNITY
38 September 2014 | thecurrenthub.com
COMMUNITY One Sweet Farmers Market
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unique take on a pie - in the form of a cupcake - Salted Caramel Cheesecake.
The Sweet Apple Farmers & Artisans Market, formerly held at Sweet Apple Village has a new location. Now being held at World A Fall Fashion Show titled Walk Harvest Church located at 320 This Way, benefiting The Drake Hardscrabble Road in Roswell. House, will be held on Sept. 11 Held every Thursday, year round, from 6 to 8pm at the Alpharetta Presbyterian Church located at 180 Academy Street in Alpharetta. Join them for an evening of food, fashion, and fun! Wardrobe Consultant Lori Wynne from Fashion with Flair will give you practical advice for getting the most out of your closet as she hosts our annual event. Purchase tickets early as past events have sold out. It is all for a great cause as The Drake House provides short-term crisis housing, education and empowerment programs for homeless mothers and their children in North Fulton County designed to assist the family in working toward self-sufficiency. For more information about programs designed to assist families in working toward self-sufficiency, visit the Pie Judge, Micki Kimberly, the Pastry Chef at thedrakehouse.org. Osteria Mattone and Table & Main chows down on some of the winning pie.
Walk This Way
from 3pm to 7pm they feature an amazing selection of products including fresh produce, bread, cheese, eggs, meats, fresh, wildcaught seafood direct from the Coast, Live Maine Lobsters direct from a family boat, hand-crafted soaps, prepared meals and more. They also hold special contests at various times. Last month they had a Pie Challenge. Given the incredible tastes and variety of pies entered in the final pie baking contest, the event judges had a real challenge. Dianne Tribble, representing Sweet Apple Farmers and Artisans Market took home the Best Overall Pie and was also the Adult winner. Alivia Roberts from Cherokee Fresh Market came in first in the Youth category with her Honey Sweet and Salty Pie, while Careylin North from Woodstock Farmers Market took first place in the Professional category with her
Historic Homes Offer Free Admission
On September 27, Roswell’s three historic homes will open their doors – along with hundreds of other participating venues nationwide – for Museum Day Live! Hosted annually by Smithsonian magazine, the event offers free entry into participating museums for anyone presenting a Museum Day Live! ticket. Each ticket is good for free admission for two people. One ticket will provide access to Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation. All three locations will accept tickets on smartphones. The homes are open from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with tours at the top of each hour. Tickets for Museum Day Live! must be reserved in advance by visiting www.smithsonianmag.com/ museumday.