OCTOBER 2020
Movie Theaters are
Back Open!
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HOTTEST COCKTAIL SPOTS
SOUTHERN COOKING
at Gracious
Plenty
A Roswell STAYCATION
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STAY HEALTHY. EAT AT KALE ME CRAZY.
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contents featured on page 20 Enjoy a staycation in Roswell.
life & style Movie theaters are back open! A review of Death on the Nile and more new movie releases for October.
PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Rivera arcanevisuals.ga@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lauren Bernazza Malika Bowling Di Chapman Joe Duffy
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SOCIAL MEDIA Tricia Morris tricia@thecurrenthub.com Main Phone Number 678-524-8414 thecurrenthub.com
The Current Hub aspires to communicate in a way that’s useful, engaging, enjoyable, and unique. We strive to reflect the full range of what the area has to offer, also advocating positions that strengthen unity and continuity. The Current Hub is published monthly. Presort standard postage paid at Atlanta, GA. Publisher has the privilege to reject any advertising. Advertisers are responsible for full content of advertisements provided and responsible for any claims made therein.
food & drink
health & wellness
Joe Duffy shows his appreciation for the southern cooking at Gracious Plenty Bakery & Breakfast.
10 innovations of health and 18 The wellness professionals during the pandemic. The importance of major health screenings and immunizations for children.
Di Chapman tells us what changes she'd like to keep from the past few months.
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Learn about a home ownership rebate program for heroes.
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A list of the hottest craft cocktail spots in North Fulton.
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Protecting our moms and dads in senior living.
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Transform your kitchen & bath into a beautiful and functional environment.
Visit our extensive gallery to choose your stone and cabinetry. Our design team will help you craft your vision.
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life & style
OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
4
Movie Theaters are Back Open and “CinemaSafe” by Britt Argo
Death on the Nile image courtesy of 20th Century Studios.
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Hollywood is Back with New Movie Releases for October
ast month, we saw several metro Atlanta area movie theaters re-open to play Tenet. Labor Day weekend was the re-launch, allowing movie theaters to welcome guests back indoors for big screen, immersive viewing of a new film. After a successful re-opening, Hollywood is releasing more anticipated films in October onto the big screens! Here is what we are excited to view: Oct 23rd—Death on the Nile (PG-13): Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) is back in a new Agatha Christie tale. He survived the train trek on the Orient Express. Now Poirot travels on a glamorous river steamer down the Nile and must solve a murder with a new batch of suspects before they come to port. Why You Must Watch It: The dialogue, the build-up, the pacing adds so much suspense. Poirot teases and paints a picture with his words: “The romance of the desert has the power to seduce. I ask you, have you ever loved someone, been so possessed by jealousy, that you might kill?” and, “The crime is murder, the murderer is one of you. I have investigated many crimes, but this has altered the shape of my soul. I am Detective Hercule Poirot, and I will deliver your killer!” and, “How many great stories are tragedies? Murder was just the beginning!” The visuals—sets, costumes, and cinematography—are stunning. Kenneth Branagh is also the director, and his film style never disappoints. We are transformed back in time to a sepia-toned, rich, shadowy 1937 along the Nile River and pyramids of Egypt. The attention to detail, the rich luxe costumes, the styling of the actors becomes almost an extra character. At times, we get slower camera pans across the scene, so we can take it all in and become more immersed in the setting. The stellar ensemble of actors/ characters works well for this film.
We have A-listers Kenneth Branagh, Gal Gadot, and Armie Hammer. We have veterans—Annette Bening, Sophie Okonedo, and Jennifer Saunders (Absolutely Fabulous). We have familiar faces—Letitia Wright (Black Panther), Russell Brand, Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones) and many new actors you will soon love. This tapestry of talent helps weave this tale very well. Bottom line—yes—you must see this one in the movie theater on a big screen. If you loved Murder on the Orient Express, you will love this one! And here are some other October films coming to theaters near you: Oct 9th—War with Grandpa (PG): “Old School vs. New Cool”—a comedy for the whole family! A family comedy/drama starring Robert DeNiro as a grandpa who moves in with his daughter (Uma Thurman) and grandson Peter. A less-thanthrilled Peter “declares war” on his grandpa to reclaim his bedroom from an unwelcome roommate. Oct 9th—Honest Thief (PG-13): “Never Steal A Man’s Second Chance”! An action crime/thriller starring Liam Neeson, a notorious bank robber who wants to “go legit”. He tries to turn himself in but is double-crossed by two FBI agents with a vendetta. Oct 16th—2 Hearts (PG-13): A romantic drama starring Radha Mitchell and Jacob Elordi (Kissing Booth fame). It follows two couples who live in different times and places, but somehow are entwined together, forming a surprise connection.
5 OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
Come CinemaSafe images courtesy of NATO-CinemaSafe.org. Oct 23rd—Connected (PG): An animated family adventure. When collegebound Katie leaves for film school, her whole family plans a road trip to help her get there. But a “tech uprising” of robots and everything digital tries to take over the planet, making their road trip an epic battle to save the world. *Release dates are subject to change. Check fandango.com for a list of local theaters playing the films and showtimes. To watch trailers and learn more about these movies, check out imdb.com.
CinemaSafe Movie Theaters
The National Association of Cinema Owners (NATO) have worked with epidemiologists to develop and support CinemaSafe—a program with health & safety guidelines and protocols to assist movie theaters with safely re-opening for their guests. Over 300 movie theater companies have joined and pledged to adopt these safety measures, including all metro Atlanta theaters. CinemaSafe theaters commit to social distancing, masks required, reduced capacity, improved air filtration, frequent hand-washing, hand sanitizer stations, enhanced cleaning, employee health training, modified concessions, mobile ticketing and more. All to allow everyone to enjoy their movie safely. To learn more, visit cinemasafe.org.l
PLAYwith us!
VOLUNTEER!
We desperately need volunteers! All About Cats Rescue & Adoption is a Roswell-based charity that rescues cats & kittens from high-kill north Georgia shelters. Please help us with: Cleaning and socializing with our cats inside PetSmart Assisting with weekend adoptions inside PetSmart Fostering (all expenses paid) Participating in fundraising/special events
ADOPT!
Looking to adopt? All of our available cats can be viewed on our website, Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet. Weekend adoption events are held every Saturday at 1-5 p.m. in the Roswell PetSmart at 625 W Crossville Rd. We also do adoptions during the week by appointment. Please call Kristy Grieco at (404) 401-6793. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit all-volunteer based organization which operates solely through your generous contributions. 100% of donations go directly to the cats.
CONTACT US allaboutcatsrescue.org aacatsrescue@gmail.com Roswell PetSmart (678) 352-8138
Britt Argo, an avid movie fan for more than 30 years, sees an average of 150 movies a year in movie theaters. She is the marketing cooordinator at Area 51: Aurora Cineplex and The Fringe Miniature Golf-5100 Commerce Parkway in Roswell. 770-518-0977. auroracineplex.com & a51fun.com.
@allaboutcatsrescue @allaboutcatsroswell
life & style
OUR COVID “KEEPERS”
OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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Funny how life’s changes change us. by Di Chapman
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y dearest readers, it is so totally exciting to talk to you once again! Hot dog! Who knew when it would happen? Who knew that when life resumed it would be in a way that included reaching out to you to laugh about this “Oh, my God” year when we exchanged hundreds of pet pictures, made the Zoom founders billionaires, gave Jeff Bezos more money than, well, you know who, and supported a brand new industry in high-fashion mask production? Ladies, never in my life did I see myself trying to decide between a leopard print mask versus camo. Who’da thought? Gents, did you go with the N95, or the “Give me your money now!” full face mask? But you know what? Exchanging notes about surviving the COVID-19 shutdown, navigating the aftermath, and diving into the unknown experiences when we had to tread water, gave us permission to share how they kept us laughing, connecting and sane. And you know what? Many of us are liking them, and are taking them forward into our lives. Here’s a sampling from my own and others. I’d love to hear about yours as well!
whom is an instructor, and I agreed to start our own outdoor class, in her driveway, with social distancing, to maintain the restrictions our governor had mandated in his shelter-in-place directives. Twice a week, we did what we always did in a safe, bodyworks protocol class. Of course we included our obligatory griping, moaning, and begging for mercy. Buddy the household hound joined us daily to supervise. Neighbors watched with curiosity. Our instructor’s friend joined us in the early summer and the four of us forged on in the garage, all in our own corners with our own fans blowing, and our own (gross) sweat. Seven months later: “Gym anybody?” “Nah. Not on your burpees!”
COVID CRUNCHES AND CAMARADERIE
COVID COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATION
Americans are notoriously uninterested in using the gym memberships we own, but for those of us who like the classroom thrill of the crunch, the desperation of pushups, and the sweat of doubletimed knee-ups, they were our fun. Then, COVID-19 crept in. “I won’t wear sweaty masks (yuck), or breathe another’s disgusting exhaust,” I proclaimed. “No freaking way.” Two of my comrades, one of
For many of you, the COVID shutdown created a shutdown in friendship dates as well, and like the “crunches and camaraderie,” you might have created another way to keep them alive. In my sister’s case in California, it’s a Friday night “cocktail” constitutional she started at a girlfriend’s home. My sister picks the wine and her girlfriend makes the goodies. It’s an instant “hen party” for two. A COVID cocktail klatch with a sanity check.
life & style My neighborhood has been alive the last several months with COVID car washers. There are the washers and the waxers and the detailers. There are the folks who don’t stop with the rain. (Seriously?) I remember my days of car washing. They are long in the rear view mirror. My method now is to wait for rain and then back the car out of the garage.
Even my own is three pounds heavier than before COVID. I’ve got this tire around my middle. I’m called to the cupboard every night to binge on peanut butter, nuts, chocolate chip muffins, and honey. I fib to myself, however, on top of the BIG lunches my husband is making me every day of vegan foods I love. It is definitely a delicious pile of calories I don’t need. And I can’t stop myself. I’m so doggone human. Who of you is with me?
COVID COOKING
COVID TV
Ahhh, this is a big one that is in the news everywhere. Good heavens, everyone now has a cooking show online. They’re featuring comfort food: lasagne, casseroles, fudge and other creative sweets, shrimp everything, home-baked bread, cinnamon rolls, and every kind of European recipe and more. Flour, meat, sugar, baking powder and soda, eggs, and baking ingredients of all kinds have flown off the grocery shelves. Have we lost our minds? For some, the homemade cooking in moderation has become a new way of life. God bless them.
COVID CALORIES
We cannot possibly talk about COVID cooking without discussing our waistlines. There, I said it.
Heaven knows, I‘m slumped down in front of the tube, friends are flopping down in front of the tube, and everyone is plopped down in front of the tube. Remember “appointment TV” that happened in the 70s with shows like All in the Family? Here we are again, and we’re liking it. We’re talking endlessly about our favorite shows and series.
COVID KVETCHING
The “he said, she saids,” the “they said, we saids,” the “I believes, they don’t believes,” COVID-19 has given us endless material for kvetching. I believe that complaining is a desired part of humans’ daily repartee. I’m certain that at the entrance to his cave residence, Og was complaining to his fellow caveman buddy that the heavy brow bone on
A Retirement Community for
All Seasons
St. George Village, Roswell’s premier senior living community, is truly a community for all seasons…even a season of life that is uncertain. Our community, with its spectacular outdoor campus and constantly evolving activities schedule, encourages and inspires our residents to be healthy, happy and thrive in every season of life. Plus, our nonprofit status as a Life Plan community provides an additional layer of security with its protection of financial assets and guaranteed access to a continuum of care, if ever needed. Learn more about all of the aspects that make St. George Village a retirement community for all seasons, even in times of uncertainty. Call 678-987-0409 for information. Take a virtual tour of our community without leaving home! Log on to stgeorgevillage.org and click on the video on our home page. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Voted Best Senior/Adult Living in North Fulton Family Life magazine’s 2020 Best of Life Awards Roswell’s first senior living Life Plan retirement community 11350 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 987-0410 | stgeorgevillage.org
their neighbor should keep him out of the spearchucking club. Ergo, this virus has given us water cooler rumors and daily gossip. If ever there was fodder for proverbial uber-opinionated hot air, it’s now. Take your COVID “Keepers” into the future to help keep you going. COVID is not over, but neither are your “keepers,” your coping methods of humor, relaxation, camaraderie, close friends, and diversions. We’re almost there. Until then, use your mask, and be safe at the water coolers! A note: Although my column is humorous, if you and your family have been impacted by COVID-19, I do know your sorrow and your desire for medical advances. I’ve lost one dear friend and almost lost another. God bless you, and we will always think about you.l
Di Chapman is an inspirational author and speaker, and a branding consultant. Di’s latest book is Rekindle Your Purpose: Break through your disappointments, discouragements, and detours to resurrect your purpose and live it!
OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
COVID CAR WASHING
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OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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life & style
NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES There’s a program that provides a rebate to community heroes (first responders, healthcare workers, teachers and military) in Atlanta! by Malika Bowling
A
fter the housing collapse in 2008, Carole S., a healthcare professional in north Atlanta, didn’t think she’d ever be able to afford a home. Between crushing student loan debt she had accumulated and being the sole provider for her family, the bills took a toll on her. She came to feel that she would be a renter for the rest of her life, despite the fact that she took exceptional pride in being a homeowner. Through word of mouth, Carole heard of the Atlanta Rebate for Community Heroes (ARCH), founded by Bruce Bo Realty. She figured she didn’t have much to lose in applying, and to Carole’s surprise the mortgage company that backs ARCH found a mortgage that fit her finances. “Dealing with Bruce Bo Realty and his team has been incredibly easy. I was surprised at the speed of the mortgage approval process and their dedication to getting me the lowest possible interest rate. There was hardly any When a hero paperwork to fill out too!” buys OR sells a Bruce Bo, retired hero home, they save an (law enforcement), realizes equivalent to 1% how much our local heroes support our communities of the purchase and wants to make home price. ownership easy and attainable for them. “It is our way of saying ‘Thank You’ to our communities’ heroes. They work tirelessly to make our neighborhoods a great place to live. Therefore, we want them to live in the community they work and not be priced out.” Bruce himself lives in Alpharetta and specializes in the North Fulton and Forsyth communities. So far, the program has helped first responders, healthcare professionals and teachers each save thousands on their home purchases. Veterans and active military members are eligible as well. “Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear stethoscopes, scrubs, badges, boots, helmets… I began my career in law enforcement because I want to help people and since retiring, I wanted to do something for our essential workers that put their lives on the line
each day to keep us safe and educate our children. I especially wanted to put together a program that didn’t have a lot of restrictions.” How does the ARCH program work? An eligible hero contacts the Bruce Bo team and they start the process. They work with a team of inspectors and mortgage lenders, each discounting and passing the discount along to the client. When a hero buys OR sells a home, they save an equivalent to 1 percent of the purchase price. This is presented to them in the form of cash at closing.
• Eligible workers are first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and military
• Average savings is $3,800 • Save one percent of the purchase price • No catches or red tape As long as the buyer or seller can verify their career in one of the qualifying categories, they are eligible. There's no special paperwork to fill out. The process couldn't be easier. There's no catches and no red tape. The hero can use those funds to do anything they choose, whether that is putting it towards home improvement projects or paying off other debt. Rewards can be claimed here: 470.870.ARCH or brucebo.com/arch Malika Bowling is editor at Roamilicious.com and the author of Food Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta. She’s been featured on HGTV and the Huffington Post. She has been a contributing writer to USA Today, Beer Connoisseur and Chowhound. You can find her on social media: Facebook/Twitter @MalikaBowling and on Instagram @roamilicious.
We Take Care of Moms & Dads
Angie, Sales Director, and her mom Kathy
Our resort-style community in Alpharetta was designed to provide comfortable living and enjoyment every day. While Inspired Living will never be the home that was left behind, we hope that you or your loved one will find comfort, ease, and happiness in our community.
CALL US TODAY FOR A TOUR! (770) 629-8431
INSPIRED LIVING AT ALPHARETTA Independent Living, Assisted Living, & Memory Care 11450 Morris Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005 Learn More at inspiredliving.care
Resort Style Living Licensed Oversight 24/7 Nutritious Chef-Prepared Meals All Day Restaurant Dining Onsite + Offsite Events Dedicated Programming Daily Housekeeping & Maintenance
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OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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food & drink
SMALL BATCH SOUTHERN COOKING
at Gracious Plenty
by Joe Duffy As one of the biggest food snobs on Planet Earth, I’m interrogated continually for restaurant guidance. When the desired genre is daily breakfast (the list gets lengthier for weekend brunch), there is a clearly defined top two: the previously examined Hen Mother Cookhouse in Johns Creek and Gracious Plenty Bakery & Breakfast in Roswell. Just as HMC is run by a husband and wife chef team, Gracious Plenty is directed by betrothed Jasmin Willis and Conner Slewitzke. Not surprisingly, the lovebirds met on the job, when they toiled the trade together at King + Duke from well-known Atlanta chef Ford Fry. Jasmin was part of the pastry team and Conner a line cook. Willis is the owner of Gracious Plenty and Executive Pastry Chef, while Slewitzke captains the savory side. The two items I advocate most categorically are any of the hash brown bowls and anything with a biscuit. The bowls commence with freshly cut hash browns. In normal times, the selection of vegetables, protein, and cheese is substantially more diverse, but in the “new normal” two eggs, American cheese, plus an electable of bacon or chicken
sausage comprise this signature dish. Optional add-ons are onions and blistered tomatoes. Grits in lieu of hash browns is another alternative. Though I come clean in acknowledging some appreciation of the Waffle House, my canned attempts to speak WaHo lingo when ordering do an injustice. These bowls are next level excellency. In yearning for the world as we once knew returning, I look forward to utilizing the restoration of the whole shebang of mix and match combinations, highlighted by Heywood Provisionsinfused proteins. The biscuits should be in every debate of “best of Atlanta.” A biscuit sandwich has the same meat
selections as the bowls. When the universe allows a flowing dining room again, perhaps we shall see the option of a fried bologna biscuit, the lunch meat from aforesaid blue-ribbon supplier Heywood. In addition to the crushing constraints the industry is seeing due to the economic slowdown, like virtually all “chef-driven” restaurants, Gracious Plenty’s menu is seasonal. Their fantastic biscuits and gravy has proven to be more popular in cold
weather, so it is not a permanent fixture, but take advantage of this item when available. There is no paucity of first-rate burger options in the area, but GP’s “cheeseburga” with American cheese, onion, pickles, and comeback sauce holds its own against the best. When interviewed by charming Mara Davis, Netflix’s Phil Rosenthal called Gracious Plenty the best meal he’s had in Georgia. Though most commonly known for being
QUALITY. COMMUNITY. ENVIRONMENT.
From the Earth Brewing Company is a brewpub with quality food and handcrafted beers made with premium ingredients and a lot of love. We have a seasonal chef-driven menu, inventive cocktails, an extensive list of wine-by-the-glass offerings, a laid-back environment, great service, live music, and stellar beer dinners.
1570 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD | ROSWELL 770.910.9799 | ftebrewing.com for reservations, visit www.ftebrewing.com
chef driven menu
handcrafted
brews
Hours of Operation Monday: Closed Tuesday - Thursday: 12pm - 9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm - 10pm Sunday: 12pm - 9pm
live
music
Place your order now... All Turkeys are Fresh and 100% All Natural. Picking up your bird: 11/23 Monday, 11/24 Tuesday, or 11/25 Wednesday. Limited number of pick-ups each day. Reserve your spot now by placing your order today. Turkeys typically sell out by the 15th of November. Here’s what I have available to order:
All Natural White Feather Bird 10-14 lb
16-20 lb
20-24 lb
American Bred Heritage Black (high-end, like the wagyu of turkey)
16-20 lb
Nueske’s Spiral Cut 1/2 Ham with light glaze average weight 7 lb + -
Special Hours of Operation for Thanksgiving period: 11/23, 24, 25 Open for Pre-order Pick-ups 12-5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 11/26 Thursday, Thanksgiving Day CLOSED 11/27 Friday, Day after Thanksgiving CLOSED 11/28 Saturday, Regular hours — 11am - 5pm ANY WALK-INS (Non pre-order clients) 11/23, 24, 25 Understand, I am not officially open to walk-ins, if by chance you show up, I will do what I can to assist you, assisting you may take plus/minus 2 hours, so don’t get butt hurt if you have to wait.
Finally...Back Open October 7th (Wednesday) Answering phone for pre-orders October 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th 10-3 pm. To each and every one of my clients: Your number in line is: Thank you very much for working with me during my hip replacement surgery. My staff and I are super excited about being back. The following is a list of information and rules of engagement to make us working together more efficient during these times. Understanding the ‘why’ keeps us all happy! 1. I will continue to allow only 1 client/group in my store at a time, I am more than reasonable if you have a certain request. We have maintained since the beginning of this pandemic 100% staff and 99.99% client...Covid Free. Mask or no mask is your choice. 2. Pre-orders have gone thru the roof since Covid started. Pre-ordering is designed to skip the line. Preorder clients have a priority over non pre-ordered clients since they have taken the time to pre-order days, weeks, and even months in advance. That is why when you’re in line with a number (whether you’re standing outside, in your vehicle, or waiting at Pinkies Up) and you see different people coming in the store ahead of you or us bringing out bag(s) of merchandise to someone in their car or outside, all these clients have pre-ordered. I also have a number of pre-order clients that use my back door for pickups. Unfortunately non pre-order clients can at times become very frustrated and even angry at times. So by understanding how the system works we can have less frustration. We will always be fair to each and every client. 3. If you are in line (a non pre-order client) and what you would like to get does not require me (Mitch) to cut anything for you, let the person working the door know what you need and we will do our best to expedite your order. This is no different than if you were in my store pre-Covid. Please keep in mind you are still a non pre-order client. 4. I operate no differently with each and every client today than I did pre-Covid, the difference is I don’t have the line standing in the store. Once you are in my shop, there is no clock ticking, I will answer all your questions, review any cooking techniques, temperature issues, rest time, review your recipe(s), assist in planning a function, etc. Never feel like you need to rush because I have a line, all my regular clients understand how I operate. A quote from a long-time client, “The best time at Mitch’s is, you are on Mitch time.” Thank you very much and you are appreciated!! Mitch
food & drink
OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, most germane is that Rosenthal is the host of I'll Have What Phil's Having on PBS and Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix. It’s also a favorite of local resident Perry Burris, who gives GP “a 10 out of 10.”
Willis credits mentor Chrysta Poulus, the Executive Pastry Chef for the Ford Fry empire. In addition to King + Duke, Slewitzke’s resume includes working under Pat Pascarella at the Optimist, then at Staplehouse, before heading to Canton Street. Do not even consider leaving without trying the French almond cake. In an area flourishing with diverse sweets purveyors, that almond cake is as good as any dessert item. The monkey bread is another top seller. Just want a traditional bacon and eggs? Get Bruce’s plate, which also has chicken sausage and the must-have biscuit. I still must try their chicken salad. The two owners are good people too, having contributed greatly to Roswell’s “School Meal Program,” designed to help feed school children once in-school was cancelled because of COVID. The program’s founder Mike Thomas said, “When we came up with the idea for the School Meal Program, Jasmine and Conner were one of the first I called. Throughout the program they were always there
Gracious Plenty | 1164 Canton St. Roswell, GA 30075 | graciousplentybb.com | 678-878-3105
to help make sure our students were going to have quality fresh meals whenever we needed them,” adding, “During what was a very uncertain time for restaurants, they always put our kiddos first. Speaks greatly of their character.” Modified menu notwithstanding, GP makes me plenty gracious.
Sound Bites
This economic lockdown has cut down on my restaurant patronage by 93.45 percent. Though I’d agree with the food snob consensus that Sandy Spring’s Tasty China and Duluth’s (but stay tuned) Masterpiece sets the standard for real Sichuan cuisine, I fully approve of the grub I got at Great Sichuan on Medlock Bridge. I did keep my vow to not robotically order heat, heat, and more heat each time I walk through the doors at a Sichuan restaurant. You could argue that I put Johns Creek’s Great Sichuan at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to the inevitable comparison to standard bearers Masterpiece and Tasty China. Still, the boiled pork, lamb casserole, and dumplings with chili oil more than held their own. Johns Creek has themselves
one hell of an “Asian Alley” with Great Sichuan and Hong Kong Café each for Sichuan, Le Mekong Vietnamese Cuisine, and Mama's Kitchen Taiwanese Food. Next on the hit list is confirming Xiao's Way Noodle House has soup dumplings as great as the reports. If so, that would make it five bell cow Asian restaurants in maybe a two-mile stretch in the affluent bedroom community. Look for the aforesaid Masterpiece to relocate resulting in said radius foodie heaven... Cibo and Vino on Jones Bridge Road puts out a very good Italian sandwich. These are imported meats and very high quality; I believe they told me during soft opening, they procure the meat from Arthur Avenue. I’m fat and wouldn’t mind more meat but will admit that’s a common complaint. Still, the Italian would make my list of favorite sandwiches in Hubville.l When he’s not eating, which is rare, the author is CEO of Sports Handicapping website OffshoreInsiders.com. His bride’s gift site, DuffyGifts.com is the place to go for gifts of all occasions from My Thirty One Gifts.
14 HOTTEST COCKTAIL SPOTS IN NORTH FULTON by Malika Bowling
Quarantine may have made day drinking more acceptable. If you are tired of wine and beer, and are craving craft cocktails, here’s a list of the best spots in Roswell, Alpharetta and Forsyth to grab a well-made libation. Bistro VG—We might not be able to visit Europe right now, but when you visit this Roswell spot, it feels like you’ve escaped to a trendy French restaurant. With the chic decor and subtle French rock music playing in
The Lapeer Channel Orange.
the background, it’s the perfect night out. Drink: An Anjou pear martini has just enough pear puree to make it fruity but perfectly balanced with vodka.
melted havarti! But their cocktail program is mighty impressive. Drink: Afternoon Delight—made with pisco, coconut rum, and pineapple. Enjoy this refreshing drink on their lovely patio.
Carson Kitchen—The Las Vegas favorite has made its way east to Georgia and we can’t get enough of the fried chicken skins or the bacon jam—the perfect mix of sweet and salty with a hearty topping of gooey
Lapeer Seafood Market—If you love all things seafood with a slight Asian flare, check out Lapeer in Alpharetta. Dishes like the lobster pasta and oysters with house made hot sauce are just a few of the
The El Capitan and pisco sour from Freakin Incan.
beautiful dishes you’ll find along with a welcoming décor. Drink: Channel Orange—sure, you can have classic cocktails, but why not venture out and try this special rum concoction made with carrots?
The Ebb Tide cocktail at Ocean and Acre.
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Sip Up, Darling!
food & drink
OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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Proven sports handicappers, vetted sportsbooks at OffshoreInsiders.com Contact Joe at OffshoreInsiders.com | admin@joeduffy.net
Cocktails at the Salt Factory. Freakin Incan—The décor at this Peruvian restaurant is surprisingly upscale despite its humble food truck beginnings. Make sure to enjoy the signature dish, lomo saltado. Drink: Pisco sour—the traditional drink in Peru, made with egg whites, is smooth as silk. For something stronger get the El Capitan—their twist on a Manhattan.
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Bad Daddy's Burger Bar—Over the top burgers might be the star of the show here, but don’t miss out on their deviled eggs, either. Drink: Strawberry habanero margarita—not for the faint of heart, this drink is spicy and definitely packs a punch. Served in a mason jar; you probably only need to order one.
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Ocean and Acre—Located in Forsyth’s Halcyon, the flagship restaurant is a must for any seafood lover. A huge raw bar greets you as you enter. Crab noodle cakes and clam chowder fritters are a must to start. Drink: Ebb Tide—the rum based drink is refreshing with pineapple, mint and orange shrub. Monkey 68—With locations in both Roswell and Alpharetta, North Fulton is doubly lucky with this sushi spot. Any sushi aficionado will enjoy the options like the Toro on Fire but one of the coolest things is the cocktail list based on your Chinese New Year sign. Drink: Year of the Rabbit—the gin and ginger is a winning combination. Pro tip: go with a group and get a mix as the variety is quite intriguing, like the Year of the Dragon, a smoky drink poured tableside. Chiringa—The bright and airy restaurant located in Alpharetta serves up delicious tacos and more. Drink: Chiringa’s signature frosé—sure, frosé is ubiquitous, but this one is made with vodka, Aperol and a strawberry simple syrup. Quite potent, guests are limited to two max.
Email mike@thecurrenthub.com for rates and information.
Village Tavern—You might not find any hipster cocktails here, but if a well-made classic cocktail is what you’re looking for, they’ve got you covered with a classic martini, Manhattan or other perennial favorites, served tableside.
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REOPENING IN OCTOBER!
South Main Kitchen's Twilight in Tulum. The Whiskey Project—Not surprisingly, plenty of whiskey cocktails can be found here, 17 to be exact, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find an array of delicious other cocktails too. Drink: a classic Negroni or Manhattan is superb or try out the Osaka Nightcap made with Japanese whisky. Salt Factory—Many visit for the quality of beef (excellent steaks and burgers). But cocktails are not forgotten. Drink: Opulent Sparkle—made with prosecco, pomegranate and fresh rosemary, it’s an elegant start to dinner. Milton's Cuisine and Cocktails—This renovated old farmhouse is a lovely spot for gathering for a group outing or girls night out. Plus, you can even see the garden in the back where many of the vegetables are grown. Drink: Milton Mule—if you are a fan of the vodka based cocktail, Moscow Mule, try this one at Milton’s made with pickle juice for a southern twist. South Main Kitchen—One of the most underrated brunch destinations in North Fulton, you’ll love listening to all the songs you know from the 90s, while sipping on a cocktail. Drink: Twilight in Tulum—the tequila based drink is matched with pear syrup, cassis noir and domaine canton, a ginger-flavored liqueur. Barleygarden Kitchen & Craft Bar—Sandwiches like the shaved prime rib and the variety of inventive specialty hot dogs are enough reason to visit. Though the Avalon restaurant features a plethora of beers on tap, they don’t forget the cocktails either. Drink: With fun names like A Flesh Wound, Trojan Rabbit and Face the Peril, they make inventive cocktails. A Black Knight made with bourbon is quite strong but delicious. Who says you have to drive into town for a sophisticated drink? Cheers!l Malika Bowling is editor at Roamilicious.com and the author of Food Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta. She’s been featured on HGTV and the Huffington Post. She has been a contributing writer to USA Today, Beer Connoisseur and Chowhound. You can find her on social media: Facebook/Twitter @ MalikaBowling and on Instagram @roamilicious.
Aurora Cineplex The Fringe Miniature Golf Roswell Town Center 5100 Commerce Parkway (770) 518-0977 www.auroracineplex.com
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health & wellness
The Health & Wellness Industry Goes with the Flow in 2020 by Lauren Bernazza
The health and wellness industry has had to practice what we preach in 2020, going with the flow and breathing into the discomfort. Like many small businesses caught by surprise with the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to rethink how we offer services to our clients. Many of us in this industry are creatives, intuitives, and doers used to thinking outside the box—and we’ve used those traits to ensure that our community still has access to the support and services we provide. Raise your hand if your local yoga studio has started offering classes on-line and outside at local parks. How about curbside pick-up of your favorite supplements or private therapy sessions over video chat? Virtual and distanced support for our clients is something that we all had to get on board with. When the service you provide is an essential tool in the self-care toolbox of your community, you know you’ve got to evolve and expand—and that’s just what we’ve done. Wellness professionals have long shouted the benefits of exercise and connection for mental health so we knew that the pivot to providing virtual support and services was not optional. Being stuck at home with nowhere to go, shortages on food and supplies, and isolation from family and friends are surefire paths to depression and anxiety. Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, John Ratey, M.D., says that “exercise is the single most powerful tool you have to optimize your brain function and has a profound impact on cognitive abilities and mental health. It is simply one of the best treatments we have for psychiatric problems.” Virtual fitness classes served up a dose of endorphins while support groups built entire on-line communities. Live virtual classes offer both exercise and interaction, a needed combination at all times and especially now. As a birth and postpartum doula, I support families through pregnancy, labor, and well into the postpartum period. My main connection with families happens through in-person support and physical touch, all while in close quarters. When COVID-19 hit, I shifted gears mid-stride and figured it out as I went, along with my trusting clients. I
knew we stumbled across something that was working half way between recipe building with a postpartum client over FaceTime and showing a dad how to apply counter pressure to his wife’s hips during a contraction over Zoom. I even set up a meal train for a new family using Uber gift cards since their loved ones couldn’t travel to take care of them in early postpartum. Offering the intimate and personalized level of support to families virtually was easier than I anticipated and I’m happy to incorporate it into my offerings moving forward. The point is, innovation happened because of the shutdowns and restrictions. You can get into gyms and yoga studios today; most started opening to in-person classes in June. You stick to your socially distanced squares taped on the floor while the instructor leads both live and virtual students. Hospitals are slowly starting to allow doulas back in to provide labor support to families. We suit up in PPE and show up ready to support. It’s not what it used to be, but true growth happens in the midst of the hard times. My doula business has now expanded to offer virtual support to families outside of my community. I’m teaching yoga in the park. Studios and gyms are able to reach more people through multiple platforms. My hope is that the health and wellness industry will retain this new level of accessibility even after all restrictions are lifted.l Lauren Bernazza is a Birth and Postpartum Doula with Doulas of ATL. She is also a RYT200 (Registered Yoga Teacher) with a focus on prenatal yoga. Lauren resides in Roswell with her husband and two sets of twins (yes, two sets!).
Prioritizing Pediatric Immunizations During COVID-19 Before COVID-19, scheduling a visit with your children’s pediatrician seldom required a second thought. Now in the midst of the pandemic, parents may be skipping important pediatric appointments and immunizations—and end up putting their children’s overall health at risk. According to Wellstar health experts, missing major health screenings and immunizations may make children more vulnerable to diseases such as tetanus, rubella, measles and more. “Vaccines are one of the most powerful prevention tools to defend against many common, life-threatening illnesses,” said Dr. Brandi Lewis, pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park in Alpharetta. “Preventative health screenings and immunizations are vital in protecting your children’s health and well-being.” To keep your children’s health in check, be sure to: • Visit your pediatrician. Routine wellness checks can help keep children healthy and identify underlying, unrecognized anxiety, depression, or bullying issues, as well as serious asymptomatic illnesses. • Update immunizations. Boosters and vaccines have a significant impact on children’s ability to prevent diseases—especially up to age two—including pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, rotavirus, hepatitis, and others. While vaccines for babies and young children are particularly important, vaccines and boosters throughout childhood can help support immunity against common illnesses. • Prepare for school. Children of all ages should get regular checkups and immunizations to stay healthy, whether they attend school in-person or online. • Get a flu shot. Influenza can be highly contagious and dangerous to children and adults. Make sure to get the flu shot for your children and entire family every year, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. • Don’t delay care. If your child experiences a life-threatening medical episode or needs immediate care, get treatment right away. Wellstar is committed to providing the best and safest care for patients of all ages. “Throughout Wellstar, we have instituted many safety measures to protect all of our patients,” said Dr. Hebah Pranckun, also a pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park. “From wearing masks and gloves to offering virtual visits, we’re taking the necessary steps to keep people safe.” For more information about Wellstar’s COVID-19 safety measures, visit wellstar.org/safecare. To schedule an appointment with a pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park, please call 470-267-0380.l
PROTECTING our MOMS and DADS by Health and Wellness Nurse, Mark Mitchell COVID certainly has been a challenge from an operational standpoint in senior living. We had to recreate the way that we think in protecting our seniors. Added protocols of temperature FaceTime checks, increased sanitizing and cleaning visits, porch schedules, and the use of PPE have been visits, and socially the biggest changes. distanced Parking In the beginning procuring the needed PPE (protective wear) was a challenge, Lot Socials have but we were able to stay ahead of the become very curve by utilizing all our local resources popular. and those from our Community Support Center in Tampa. Additional policies and procedures had to be put in place regarding dining, while still trying to maintain some type of socialization for our Moms and Dads. Our Programming staff had to get creative to keep our residents engaged, but still follow the protocols of the CDC and GA Department of Health. FaceTime visits, porch visits, and socially distanced Parking Lot Socials have become very popular. While we may have had to adjust the way that we do some things, our mission has not changed. We care, think, understand and act quickly. We strive to be 1% every day and we are generous in spirit, making every effort to care for our Moms and Dads as if they were our own parents.l
19 OCTOBER 2020 THECURRENTHUB.COM
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health & wellness
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READY FOR A staycation? by Andy Williams, CMP, TMP Executive Director at Visit Roswell awilliams@visitroswellga.com visitroswellga.com
L
ike many industries throughout the world, the hospitality sector has been immensely hurt, reaching unemployment numbers as high as 51% nationally (US Travel Association). You read that correctly: 51%. When most people hear the word hospitality, they immediately think hotels and restaurants. The hospitality industry spans lengths far greater than those, however.
Images courtesy of Taryn Shultz Photos.
TM
Throughout the spring and into the summer, hospitality-focused businesses saw drastic reductions, not only in sales and employees, but also in how they were able to operate. Meetings and conventions halted, concerts cancelled indefinitely, weddings postponed, festivals scratched, fundraising events completely rethought, attractions closed, and celebrations nixed. This has been a devastating blow to industry professionals whose livelihoods are based on being around people—many times in group settings. While the travel industry is slowly showing positive, upward trends, there lies ahead a substantial amount of work for local convention and visitors bureaus and community stakeholders. A large volume of our planned successes will depend on you as the local resident and the pride you have for your community. Visit Roswell, carrying the responsibility of driving tourism spending and group business into the destination, focuses on three travel segments: Leisure, group and business transient. First, with many corporations having opted to have employees work from home (many through early to mid2021), we’ve seen large reductions in business transient business: i.e., business professionals traveling to cities for daytrips or multiple nights to conduct individual meetings and appointments. This has impacted our hotels and the businesses in which those individuals spend their money when in town for work. Second, gathering restrictions and limitations on group size has practically stopped wedding business. Roswell, being a destination known for its special
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Image courtesy of Taryn Shultz Photos.
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events venues (with many of our venues carrying out three weddings a weekend), has seen that business come to an abrupt stop since early spring. In some cases our venues are working with brides on their third postponements. Even the weddings that are moving forward have been completely reshaped—an example: A wedding guest count decreased from 250 guests to 30. The change in those numbers alone are enough to affect the local economy, as that number represents 220 fewer guests coming into town to experience the destination. Third, the segment we predicted to bounce back the quickest and strongest has done just that. The leisure segment has seen travelers returning to the community to dine in the restaurants, enjoy the breweries, take in our art and experience the plentiful recreational opportunities for which Roswell is known. We are certainly happy to see that business coming back, but we need your support in helping us grow the others. This is a call to action, and you are pivotal to our success. We need for you to think about your community first, with another focus on communities within the hyper-local area. You’ll soon see the word staycation once again among the articles, blogs and posts you read. With regard to consumer confidence, travelers are choosing to stay closer to home, taking a more in-depth look at the leisure side of the community in which they reside. This presents an incredible opportunity for you to not only learn more about your own area, but to support those local businesses who need it the most. If friends and family members are visiting from out of town, encourage them to stay in a local hotel. Have a niece that’s recently engaged? Encourage her to seek out local venues and discuss creative options for the ceremony and reception. Have work colleagues coming into town? Grab coffee, lunch or dinner at a local dining establishment. Planning a holiday celebration? Seek out local retailers or establishments that have meeting space. Give Roswell partners the opportunity to earn your business. Even better, contact Visit Roswell and allow our team to do the legwork for you, completely complimentary. It's tough to predict how exactly the events of COVID-19 will transform the travel industry, although we know it’s happening. As each day unfolds, we learn new information, see a variety of changes, and experience business models that have shifted. What we do know is that travel and hospitality will return to its normal levels. That return begins locally, with you.l
John Albers The American Dream
To my sons Will & Ryan, We are truly blessed to live in our great country. Our founding fathers were divinely inspired and men of great wisdom. The ideals and governance they conceived into our Republic has led to the greatest nation in history. Our founding principles and historical documents combine to create a unique recipe for success allowing for independence, freedom, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We have the platform, but every person and generation must be accountable and responsible to our cause. Don’t let socialism or fascism ever challenge what we know to be right. There are those who will work hard to do little, you need to work tirelessly and climb mountains! My values are strongly rooted in my faith and conservatism. I believe in hard work, accountability, small government, lower taxes, compassion, innovation, serving others and generosity. You can do anything in our great land – AND I challenge you both to be great at whatever you do. Wherever you serve, (i.e. business, church, military, government, community, family) do so with tenacity, compassion and a sense of urgency. Make a real difference in others’ lives and you will reap the benefits. Help people by giving them a hand up and not a hand out, because true compassion is doing what is best for people, not easiest. Never settle for the status quo! Rock the boat and innovate when others rest, advocate when others are silent and remember the priorities of life – God, Family, Country and Work. Be exceptional at everything and never take “no” for an answer. As a fourth-generation firefighter, I pray you continue our family tradition of “running in, when others run out”. Don’t back down from problems or challenges, be the solution. One day the Lord will call me home. When I stand before him, I will be judged. Remember it is his job alone to judge, not ours. The Lord will hopefully know my dance card was full! I worked tirelessly to preserve and protect my life priorities and our founding principles. We will get all the sleep we need in heaven and I plan to make the most of my time on earth. You are a leader, no matter the situation or circumstance. Be men of strong character and integrity. When others act foolishly, be professional and a gentleman. It will always pay dividends to you. Remember the legacy of our founding fathers and one day I expect your names to be added in the history books with them. Always do more than is expected of you and remember it is God’s plan and our free will to implement. You have all the tools and talent you need. I love you and will always be with you. With unending love and pride,
Dad
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