Northside Woman, March 2017 by Appen Media Group

MARCH 2017

A toast to

St. Patrick Celebrate at the area's top Irish pub

Designing Duo

Decorating's a snap with SwatchPop!

Irish Blessings Shamrockin' for a Cure is changing lives

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Exercise. A family activity.

With our busy lives, it’s hard to ﬁt work, family and personal time in every day. Here’s a thought: combine them. Spend time with your kids exercising. You’ll feel better, connect with your kids and teach them habits they’ll carry for the rest of their lives. Best of all, you’ll be around to see them exercising with their kids. If you’re starting an exercise program, call 404-851-6550 for some heart advice.

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A Lifetime of Care march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 3

4 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

ABBY BREAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

staff

Suzanne Pacey

PUBLISHER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER suzanne@northsidewoman.com

Candy Waylock EDITOR

{ INSIDE }

northside women { 6 }

WOMAN IN BUSINESS Alpharetta duo makes decorating your home a snap with PopSwatch! virtual tool.

the cover

Jennifer Wood, Erica Tarnacki, Jamie Roney, and Melissa Pinkston all share the common bond of having a child with Cystic Fibrosis. Their work with Shamrockin’ for a Cure aims to find the cure.. Read more on page 20.

{ 14 } GOOD EATS Looking for the best Irish pub in the United States? Hint – it’s right here in Milton. { 16 }

WOMAN IN ART Milton student Erin Machado explores the abstract world of art in first gallery show.

{ 20 }

SHE GIVES BACK Meet the women behind Shamrockin’ for a Cure which raises funds for Cystic Fibrosis.

northside lifestyle { 10 }

GOOD BOOKS Jennifer Arnold of Canine Assistants shares her training tips for well- behaved companions.

{ 12 } HER STYLE It’s easy wearing green – the official color of 2017.

Abby Breaux

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kathleen Sturgeon

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lori Wynne

STYLE CONTRIBUTER

Julia Grochowski

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

owner - Christina Appen general manager - Hans Appen

{ 18 } NORTHSIDE MAN Executive, entrepreneur, author and officer – Ron Wallace is doing it all. { 23 } TAKE FIVE Everyone is Irish on March 17, so celebrate in true Irish form with these five tips. { 24 } OUTDOOR WOMAN Kimberly Maxwell tests her personal boundaries on the Appalachian Trail. { 26 } ASK THE VET Get past the hype and marketing when navigating the nutrition labels on pet foods. { 30 } HER HEALTH { 36 } MARCH CALENDAR

sales executives Wendy Goddard, Mike Dorman, Steve Neese, April Thornton, June Meltzer sales assistant - Susan Hernandez production - Suzanne Pacey, David Brown, A.J. McNaughton

770.442.3278 | 770.475.1216 (fax) 319 north main street, alpharetta, ga. 30009

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Northside Woman is published monthly & distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. © 2015 Appen Media Group. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher. march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 5

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY SWATCHPOP!

women in business

Alpharettanatives

start virtual design company SwatchPop! aims to change decorating

Jessica McRae and Kristen Yonson founded SwatchPop! after seeing a need for a virtual decorating company.

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

“I knew she'd make a great partner because she shared my passion for interior design and she had the skill set and experience required to take this from an idea to an actual business,” McRae said. “I pitched my idea to her in a coffee shop in April of 2014 and the rest is history.” They launched a basic prototype of their website in October 2014 and started pitching the company to people they knew. It took off immediately. In January 2015, they launched SwatchPop! to a larger audience and have been growing ever since. They started with two designers and about 30 clients, and now they have 30 designers and over 1,500 clients in 46 states. Customers start the process by filling out a style file and selecting which room to furnish. Then they upload pictures of the room and give details about the space and design goals. From there, SwatchPop! matches the customer to a designer, and a custom design is tailored to the home, style and budget. Just last month, they launched a new version of the website that allows them to keep up with growing demand and introduced new features for their clients and designers. “Our homes are really an extension of ourselves. It's where we spend most of our time, feel

essica McRae and Kristen Yonson spent years unsuccessfully trying to decorate their own homes. They would often go online to visit decorating websites, but struggled to find designs that would translate to their spaces, and hiring a designer was often too costly. “Kristen and I are both people who enjoy decorating our homes, but there were times we'd find ourselves stuck,” McRae said. “We didn't necessarily need to make over our entire room, but we just wanted a little advice here and there.” After talking with a fellow designer, McRae became inspired to start her own business, SwatchPop! “I'd share photos and tell (the designer) where I was stuck, and she'd respond fairly quickly with great advice and product suggestions that were perfect for my style and budget. It was so simple,” McRae said. “And it inspired me to create a forum where anyone, anywhere, could get professional design advice for projects big and small in a simple, convenient and affordable way.” McRae thought Yonson would make a good partner, as the two went to high school together and Yonson has over a decade of experience in digital advertising sales and marketing. McRae kept up with Yonson through social media over the years, including The company’s website has interactive visuals to let customer’s see what the room would look like in reading Yonson’s home decorating blog. real life.

6 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

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women in business ▼WOMEN IN BUSINESS, Continued from Page 6 comfortable, raise our families and entertain our friends,” McRae said. “Our homes should be a reflection of our own personal style. We want to wow our friends, and we want to kick up our feet each night and feel that peace and comfort you get from your own personal sanctuary.” But it was not always an easy process. “We can all envision our dream space, or point to it in a magazine, but it's really difficult to execute,” McRae said. “We love bringing those Pinterest boards to life for our clients, and making it really simple and fun in the process.” Figuring out a way to communicate their unique service model to clients was a bit of a challenge. They used a copy writer and web designer to help create the interactive visual process. “We were bringing something brand new to the market,” McRae said. “People may have grasped the concept of online interior design. But having the flexibility to customize your project using an 'a la carte' style service menu is not easy to explain on your homepage.” Even with that minor setback, the pair has enjoyed having their own business. “Every day is truly different,” McRae said. “As an entrepreneur, you wear so many different hats, so you never get bored. You feel every little success. And you celebrate each minor victory. It's very satisfying to work for yourself.” Learn more about SwatchPop! at swatchpop.com.. ■

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PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY JENNIFER ARNOLD

Puppy L ve

goodbooks

Jennifer Arnold, founder of Canine Assistants, helps train Heston at the nonprofit’s 18-acre farm in Milton

For care and training of new pets, learn every trick in the book(s) by Canine Assistants founder By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI Contributing Writer

arch 23 is National Puppy Day, established to encourage adoptions from local shelters and rescue organizations. For help with the care and training of those furry new friends, Milton resident Jennifer Arnold has written the book. Three of them, in fact. Arnold is the founder and executive director of Canine Assistants, a nationally recognized nonprofit that raises and provides service dogs for people with disabilities. Her New York Times bestselling “Through a Dog’s Eyes: Understanding Our Dogs by Understanding How They See the World” was turned into a 2010 PBS documentary. She has also written “In a Dog’s Heart: What Our Dogs Need, Want and Deserve – And the Gifts We Can Expect in Return,” as well as this past August’s “Love is All You Need: The Revolutionary Bond-Based Approach to Educating

10 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

Your Dog.” Dogs have been a decades-long passion for Arnold, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis as a teenager in 1980. When her physician father sought a service dog to help his daughter in a wheelchair, he encountered long waiting lists and complications, so he decided to start his own program. Tragically, weeks after the first planning meeting for Canine Assistants, Dr. Harry Arnold was struck by a vehicle while walking and killed. It would take Arnold and her mother, Margaret, another 11 years to incorporate Canine Assistants, and their first three service dogs were placed the following fall. Twenty-six years later, Canine Assistants has provided over 1,500 dogs to children and adults with physical disabilities, seizure conditions or other special needs, and it is still a family affair. Arnold’s husband, Kent Bruner, is staff veterinarian. Her brother, Gary Arnold, is CFO. A nephew, Dudley, works at the nonprofit’s 18-acre farm in Milton, where son Chase also helps. As a testament to its success, Canine Assistants has

goodbooks

a waiting list of over 1,600, though placements are needs-based and all applications are encouraged at canineassistants.org. In discussing her books and business, Arnold offered tips for anyone planning to acquire a pet – whether a service dog or a family pooch.

Your most recent book, “Love is All You Need,” stresses the importance of developing unconditional bonds between dogs and owners. What do you wish all dog owners understood? “The love our dogs show us, obvious and without condition, is what I wish people would give their dogs in return. When dogs feel securely loved, they learn to behave appropriately with little effort on our part. “In my 26 years with Canine Assistants, I have realized that obedience is not what makes a great dog. Caring and collaboration is.”

Tell us about Canine Assistants.

“Our mission at Canine Assistants is to educate people and dogs so they may enhance the lives of one another. We specialize in service dogs for people who have mobility difficulties, type 1 diabetes, epilepsy as well as dogs for pediatric facilities.”

Canine Assistants owes its beginnings to your own need for a service dog as a teenager. After two-and-a-half-years in a wheelchair, you slowly became able to walk again. How did your experience shape today’s Canine

Assistants?

“I’ve felt the guilt of having to constantly ask other

people for help doing even the simplest things. I’ve lived with the isolation that comes from feeling different. I have experienced the terror of being left alone, even momentarily, when so very vulnerable. I know that, through our dogs, we can make life better. “But it isn’t just me and my experience that shapes Canine Assistants. Staffs and volunteers alike share the desire to make a difference. And they succeed! When people leave here, they leave with more than an amazing dog – they leave with the love and support of everyone at Canine Assistants.”

All three of your books seem particularly timely for National Puppy Day, an initiative focusing on orphaned puppies. Since some Canine Assistants dogs are adopted from shelters and rescue programs, do you have any advice for families adopting this month?

“I’d love to encourage anyone considering adopting a puppy to read “Love is All You Need” before doing so. How you make a dog feel, especially a dog from a shelter or rescue, is the single most important part of being a great pet parent. Secure dogs are good dogs.”

How can local residents help Canine Assistants?

“We use local volunteers to help us in many ways including educating and socializing our dogs. An application to volunteer can be found on our website at canineassistants.org.” ■

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herstyle

Look At Me At PPP Infants • Toddlers • PREPPIES Kindergarten • After School Loving to Learn for 20 Years

How to wear the color of the year, Greenery By LORI WYNNE Style Contributor

he official color of 2017 is Greenery. A beautiful mix of yellow and green to create a springtime hue that can be combined with a variety of neutrals and some of your favorite spring shades. This year’s color reminds us to be kind to the earth, embrace nature and enjoy the newness of spring. It renews and refreshes us like the change of the season. The shade entitled Greenery is also a neutral color. It has been in the color palette in years past and is now in the forefront as “an omnipresent hue around the world,“ according to the Pantone website.

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Since it is such a useable neutral, pair it with your existing navy items, metallics, earthy toned separates or pastels. Practically any shade of pink pairs well with Greenery. It also looks good with deep purples and reds.

It’s not easy being green If you think that wearing green is difficult, consider wearing this year’s color in a patterned blouse or scarf with just a touch of green in it. When updating your spring wardrobe, look for small touches of Greenery in geometric or floral prints. Add touches of green by using green accessories such as jewelry, belts or handbags.

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NEXT-LEVEL SENIOR LIVING Reuse your green items Being true to the earth means reusing and recycling, right? If this shade of green doesn’t appeal to you, use a shade of green that does. Reuse the greens already in your closet. Apple green, forest green, mint green and teal green are tones that salute the color of the year. The earth thanks you!

Greenery is a hot color for weddings As in past fashion color palettes, Greenery has always been in the background when it comes to wedding colors. Bouquets, flower arrangements and décor carry hints of fresh Greenery. Brides are bringing it to the forefront by pairing it with light grey, burgundy, light pink, black or a warm honey brown. Thank you Worth New York for allowing me to use your images of how Greenery is being used in this season’s fashions. ■

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As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharettabased Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best. Contact her at fashionwithflair.com. march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 13

goodeats

Raising a glass at the Olde Blind Dog Irish pub is the place to be on March 17 By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

t’s likely a few eyebrows were raised when Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub in Milton, Georgia (a state known more for grits than Guinness!) was named the International Irish Pub of the Year—the first American pub to be honored. But for anyone who has ever passed through the doors of the Milton dining destination, hoisted a pint of ale and sampled the authentic Irish menu, the award was a fitting tribute. Owner Ron Wallace, who founded Olde Blind Dog with a small group of local investors in 2009, said the award from the Irish Pubs Global Federation was based on a number of criteria, including authenticity, ambience, use of social media, customer ratings and warmth of staff. “On Saint Patrick’s Day [that year] we had visitors from Los Angeles, New York and many other faraway places that showed up and just said we wanted to be at the best pub in the world for the special day,” said Wallace, a retired UPS executive who lives in Milton. Although St. Patrick’s Day is the High Holiday for Olde Blind Dog, with a daylong celebration that goes on into the wee hours, every month pays tribute with “St. Practice Day” on the 17th of each month. “We started St. Practice Day as a way to keep St. Patrick’s Day fresh in everyone’s minds,” said Wallace. “It has evolved over the years and has settled into a very festive celebration with live music when it falls on a Friday or Saturday.” But regardless of the day or the month, Olde Blind Dog stays true to its Irish roots. Geoff Kokoszka, director of Operations for the

14 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

pub, notes the corned beef is steamed every day to ensure it remains moist, tender and fresh, and the Shepherds’ Pie is made with chunks of lamb leg instead of the ground beef that most American versions use. “We have tried to be as authentic with our Irish fare as we can while still appealing to the American palate,” said Kokoszka. “We have had many people from Ireland, Scotland and England tell us that when they eat at Olde Blind Dog they feel like they are back home.” Specialties of the house include the Rueben sandwich, fish and chips and the Shepherds’ Pie, which are the most popular Irish selections. “Guests’ favorites are the ale and cheddar dip, fried pickles and our special made chicken wings with every kind of homemade sauce imaginable,” Kokoszka added. The decision to locate an Irish pub in the far suburbs of Atlanta was made by the restaurant’s founders, who all lived in Milton and were looking for a unique concept to bring to the young city. “From the first day that we started construction we had people streaming in and out of the building, curious about the pub and anxious for it to open,” said Wallace, who named the pub after his dog. “About a year after we opened we found out that Milton had one of the highest demographics of Scotch/ Irish in the state of Georgia.” Opening day was packed, with a line out the door most of the evening. “Olde Blind Dog was the 27th restaurant that I have opened in my career, and it was by far the busiest out of the gate,” said Kokoszka. “It was challenging for the first few weeks, but the grace and loyalty that the residents of Milton showed us was amazing.” Inside and out, every detail of the pub

is deliberate, from the design elements and furnishings brought over from Ireland, to the dark woods reminiscent of traditional Irish pubs, to the accessories and items that date from generations ago. “Olde Blind Dog is often referred to as a museum because of the décor,” Wallace explained. “Many items are hundreds of years old and one of a kind. The few things that are not old have been antiqued to give it an authentic feel just like pubs in the Celtic countries.” The signature piece is the museum quality, larger-than-life model of Braveheart (aka Mel Gibson depicting William Woods), who resides in full regalia at the entrance, inside a steel cage for his protection. “People often ask why a Scotsman in an Irish Pub?” Wallace laughs. “We truly are a public house or Celtic Pub representing all seven Celtic

nations, but people relate more to an Irish pub so we decided to identify ourselves as such.” In the spirit of many locally-owned and operated establishments, being a part of the social and civic structure of the community is an important part of the business model. “We sponsor many of the local sports teams, high school and middle schools, and consistently donate to churches, school PTAs, neighborhood associations, first responders and others,” Kokoszka said. This is the second year Olde Blind Dog will host a St. Baldrick’s shaving event on March 18 to raise money for childhood cancer research. “Last year we raised $20,000 and our goal this year is $50,000,” said Geoff Kokoszka. Looking to the future, Wallace said a third location may open in the next few years, joining the Milton and Brookhaven locations. ■

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BYOLDE BLIND DOG

goodeats

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 15

PHOTOS BY JULIA GROCHOWSKI

From realistic to abstract

women in art

Some coffee shop visitors appreciate Erin Machado’s gallery.

Erin Machado sketches out some birds in practice for her next piece.

Local student opens gallery of her art

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI

julia@appenmediagroup.com

rt has always been about exploration and enjoyment for Milton High School senior and artist Erin Machado. “When I’m working on a piece, a lot of people would walk by and ask, ‘What does this mean?’” Machado said. “But I’m just playing. That’s always my answer.” Through February, Machado had dozens of her pieces displayed in a personal gallery at the Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House in Roswell. This is the first time that Machado has had an entire gallery of just her art. Previously, she has had one or two pieces in some exhibits, including at the Roswell Visual Arts Center, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the University of North Georgia. Machado said her passion for art started as far back as elementary school and only expanded when she took classes at the Roswell Visual Arts Center with Kip Rogers and at high school. “When I first came into high school, I was mainly interested in realism and depicting the subjects realistically,” Machado said. “But then through a lot of my classes and the Governor’s Honors Program I started to explore the more abstract side.” For two years in a row, Machado went to GHP, a state-wide program that allowed her to take four weeks of intensive four-week art workshops with other top students, where she first encountered abstract art. “This kind of art is really interesting in a different way,” Machado said. “You don’t get to explore it very often outside of a class. You really need someone to sit down with you and teach you abstract art, because it’s really hard to find your way on your own.” Machado said that she started exploring in earnest and cultivating a love for abstract art after her experiences at GHP. While she was there, an instructor pushed her and the other students to draw a still life of an orchid in a pot and then start abstracting it by adding some lines or erasing others. They also were encouraged to add different colors, and, in a touch of personal flair, Machado even glued a penny to the piece. “I had never worked with that side of abstract art before,” Machado said. “We had a

16 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

whole class of students that were doing the same still life, and they all turned out completely different.” The penny for Machado became both a way to remember her time at GHP and a theme in her later works, many of which incorporate the coin in some way. Machado works mainly in acrylics, but has branched off to photography and dry media like colored pencil as well. Many of her works focus on animals, especially birds. “The artwork can be just about playing; it doesn’t always have to be about something serious. It can just be about exploring and enjoying the moment,” Machado said. Machado has a whole series about playing, some of which were displayed in multiple galleries. “I always thought that to be a ‘good’ artist you have to draw photorealistic. If you can draw a perfect looking flower that looks like a photograph, then you’re a good artist. But that’s not always what it means,” Machado said. “Sometimes it’s more about making something that people just enjoy, even if they might not understand it.” Although she does not plan to go to college to study art by itself, Machado said that she hopes to continue to incorporate art in her chosen field, like architecture, and continue to do art on the side. ■

women in art

See Erin's art at.... LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS COFFEE HOUSE 352 S Atlanta St., Roswell, Ga. 770-645-1149 One of Erin Machadoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite subjects is birds, which she frequently paints and folds into origami.

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 17

northsideman

northsideman MARCH

RON WALLACE

By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

You played a key role in the formation of Milton. Does the city today reflect the vision you had for it more than a decade ago?

I cannot take credit for the vision. That was done by others before I became involved, but I believe the vision has exceeded all expectations. Just look at the new city center with Milton City Hall ready to open soon and all the great retail, offices and homes surrounding it. There are already 10 restaurants within a fiveminute walk from Olde Blind Dog. The new 40,000-square-foot building added to the Crabapple Market complex is a welcome addition to the area. Milton has accomplished a lot over the past 10 years. The leadership and staff is second to none, and everyday makes Milton a better place.

Speaking of Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub, how did you became a restauranteur?

Olde Blind Dog just sort of happened. I grew up as a child in restaurants and worked in several of them. My former colleague at UPS and friend Joe Creamer is responsible for talking me into starting an Irish Pub. I was probably talking when I should have been listening and one thing led to another and it just happened. We were fortunate to find a great manager that had the same passion as us.

You’ve also ventured into the entertainment world with a new company. Number One Group was formed several years ago and is a Nashville-based media company. It has several divisions including books, film but mainly music. 18 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY RON WALLACE

Northside Man: executive, author, entrepreneur, police officer, owner of Olde Blind Dog in Milton City of Residence: Milton Hometown: Born and raised in Idaho, Wallace began his UPS career as a driver in the early 1960s and steadily rose through the ranks of the company. He retired in 2002 as the president of UPS International, overseeing the operations in 200 countries. He and his wife, Kate, relocated 12 times with UPS but have called Milton home for years where their daughter and her family live just minutes away. Since retiring, he has embarked on a number of new ventures, including helping to establish the City of Milton, opening Olde Blind Dog restaurant, writing a book on leadership, and launching a successful entertainment company.

We are a label, publisher, recording and eventually hope to be a touring and merchandise company. We currently have about 500 songs in our catalog including a former number one hit, “Turn on the Radio.”

Where did your support for law enforcement take root?

I have always had a passion for law enforcement. I went through the police academy in Washington, but was transferred to open Alaska for UPS just days before being sworn in as a full-time officer. Someone knew what was best for me I guess. Thirty years later, just 10 days after I retired from UPS, I found myself in a police academy at the request of the Fulton County Sheriff. I worked for the Sheriff’s Office for three years before joining the Alpharetta Police Department. I retired in December after 13 years. I will always be a strong supporter of public safety and first responders. Across the country and especially today, for the most part, they are overworked, underpaid and underappreciated. I will always support them. They are a special kind of people and I am honored to have been one of them.

So…what are the next mountains to climb in your future?

My number one goal right now is to become more involved in my church. I also plan to find a way to help less fortunate people and that is in the works. And of course a number one hit on the country charts would be OK too. ■

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 19

they give back

Fighting F through fun, food amd purpose Annual Shamrockin’ for a Cure March 25 at Verizon

By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

rom the first small gathering of friends and family to a star-studded bash that attracts hundreds at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, the Shamrockin’ for A Cure event has become as synonymous with the month of March as St. Patrick’s Day and green beer. But the one facet that has not changed over the years is the focus on raising money to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis – a progressive genetic disease that affects the lungs and primarily begins in childhood. The annual event began in 2008 when Jon and Pam Baker of Roswell created Shamrockin’ for Cure along with close friends as a fundraising event to raise both awareness and money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Atlanta. Both of the Bakers’ sons, were diagnosed with CF—the youngest in utero during Pam’s pregnancy. For Lara Dolan who has been part of the Shamrockin’ for a Cure event since that first event, the growth has been welcome – in both raising money for research as well as awareness. “Now we have a lot more people who attend, and many more corporate sponsors who not only contribute money, but also raise the visibility of the event and the cause deep into our community,” said Dolan, pointing to Georgia’s Own Credit Union and Righteous Guitars as top sponsors for the 2017 Shamrockin’ event. Unlike many of the people involved with the Shamrockin’ event, Dolan does not have a child with CF. But that has not stopped the Alpharetta Realtor from contributing her time and talents to the success of the event. “I got involved after we attended the first, very small, Shamrockin’,” said Dolan, who serves in the “army” of volunteers as the sponsors committee chairperson. “We have long-time family friends who lost their daughter to CF in 2006. This was a very special group of people, and felt I could bring skills and resources to help take Shamrockin’ to higher levels.” Over the past eight years, Shamrockin’ has raised more than $1.7 million

Jamie and Desi

Roney.

20 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

Erica and Lincoln Tarnacki.

for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the goal for this year’s event on March 25 is $50,000. The success of the event here in North Fulton has led to similar startups across the country, from Chicago to Vermont – all with the goal of finding a cure for CF. Having a child with CF has spurred many parents to get involved with Shamrockin’, as a way to both raise money for something that impacts them personally, but also to be with people who share the common bond. Jennifer Wood of Cumming learned just months ago that her 10-month old son, Finn, had the disease. That diagnosis upended her world, but she found the lifeline in Shamrockin’ along with a group of instant friends on the same journey. “I am new to the CF community and am so thankful for events like Shamrockin’!” said Wood. “They continue to pave the way toward a cure [and] this event is vital to the fight. And does so in such a fun way!” The “fun” part may be one of the reasons for the success of the event, which emphasizes the purpose is to “eat, drink and cure cystic fibrosis.” This year, more than 30 local restaurants will be serving dinner, top-shelf spirits will flow, the music never stops, the dance floor is always open, and hundreds of items will be offered during the auction. Dolan said ultimately Shamrockin’s success comes down to a few things: people and uniqueness. “We attract incredible, dedicated, creative and energetic people, and it’s different,” she explained. “Five-K runs and black-tie events are wonderful, but Shamrockin’ is about kicking up your heels, tossing on your green hat, and having such a great time you almost forget you are at a fundraiser.” Jamie Roney and her husband, Ross, of Atlanta are among those who were drawn to Shamrockin’ to not only connect with other parents, but also to commit their energy into finding a cure. Their 18-month old daughter, Desi, was diagnosed with CF at 10 days old. “The army that leads Shamrockin’ is stellar,” said Jamie, a stay-at-home mom. “They step forward and say ‘we will fight for you’. Their goals are our goals, they understand our battle and hope. This army and this event mean the world to us!”

Melissa and Gray ton Pin

kston.

The women behin d Shamrockin’ for a Cure, from the Pam Baker, Nanc left, Kathy Igou, y Murphy, Jessi Ca ca Baker shown in inset. Brenda Lig rol Hoffman, Melinda Warbin gton, Beth Cullo hter not shown. ty, Lara Dolan,

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY PARENTS

Melissa Pinkston and her husband, JB, live in Inman Park with son Grayton, and have been tireless advocates for fighting CF both through Shamrockin’ as well as their own foundation, Grayton’s Guardians. Their son was also diagnosed with CF at 10 days old, and just days later family and friends sprung to action and formed Grayton’s Guardians. “We went to our first CF Foundation event when Grayton was two months old and were welcomed with open arms by other CF families,” said Melissa, a sales rep for Spotify. “Grayton is now 17 months old and we’re so grateful for all the support and love everyone has provided us on our journey.” Through Grayton’s Guardians, the Pinkstons have raised over $50,000 to help cure CF. They are also involved in raising money for Shamrockin’. Melissa credits Pam Baker with being the driving force since the beginning. “She is truly the leader of the CF Mama Bear tribe,” Melissa said. “She inspires everyone in the CF community, but, especially me, as a new mom trying to make sense of everything.” Meeting Pam also helped Erica Tarnacki of Dawsonville come to terms with the diagnosis of CF for her 2-year-old son, Lincoln. “I met Pam Baker at our very first CF education day,” said Erica, who also has a 7-month old daughter with husband, Tony. “We were terrified new parents and Pam was so kind and answered all of the questions we threw at her with so much grace and compassion.” Erica said she hopes to follow in her footsteps and blaze the same trail that Pam has blazed with Shamrockin’. “Since [Lincoln’s diagnosis] we’ve been doing what any parents in our situation would do, we are fighting for our son’s life every single day.” Looking to the future, Dolan said the biggest party is yet to come. “It will be the year that we announce a CURE for every CF patient. Now THAT will be one heck of a Shamrockin’!” ■

Jennifer and Finn Wood.

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 21

PHOTO BY SUZA NN

E PACEY

they give back

recipebox

Corned Beef & Cabbage W

hen people think Irish food, they think corned beef and cabbage. This delicious combination of meat and vegetables will satisfy the appetite of even your biggest eaters. It pairs well with a nice red table wine or a hearty stout beer.

Ingredients:

3-4 lbs. of corned beef brisket 8 red potatoes, peeled and quartered 1 ½ cups of carrots (chopped into 1 inch pieces) 1 ½ cups of celery (chopped into 1 inch pieces) ½ of a large yellow onion, chopped into small pieces 1 head of cabbage, cut into 8 wedges 1/3 cup of dijon mustard 6 tablespoons of brown sugar

Send us your re

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Directions: • •

Spray slow cooker with cooking spray. Place potatoes, carrots, onions and celery on the bottom. Place beef (fat side up) on top of the vegetables, and add the seasoning packet to the slow cooker. If your corned beef didn’t come with its own seasoning packet, place 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, 6 whole cloves and 1 dried bay leaf on a piece of cheesecloth and tie with string. Add the packet to the cooker.

• • •

Fill cooker with enough water to cover meat and cook on high for 7 hours. Mix mustard and brown sugar together to make glaze, and then set aside. Once your slow cooker is done, put the cabbage wedges into a pot and transfer juices from the cooker into the pot. Transfer enough juice to cover 3/4 of the cabbage. Place the lid on the pot (only part of the way so some steam

How do you treat your child? Peachtree Park Prep Owner

s parents we say and we think that we treat our children the same, right? Well, to be honest we really don’t…..nor should we. “First child favoritism”…..”spoiling the baby”……like most “sayings” these have truth as well. Each child brings something unique to the family and therefore, cannot and should not be “treated the same” as another child in the family with a different set of skills ~ strengths and weaknesses ~ needs and personality. We are all going to hear from our kids, “why did you get him a phone when he’s 11 and you made me wait until I was 13”? ”Why do you let her stay out later than me”? Why did I encourage one son to “step out of the box more” and “threaten” the other son that he “better 22 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

• • •

LOCAL WOMEN... NATIONAL AWARDS

herchild

By KAY PASCHAL

•

can escape) and cook on medium high until cabbage is tender. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Transfer beef to a baking sheet and cover top of beef (fat side) with glaze. Bake for about 10 minutes or until glaze is golden brown. To serve, cut corned beef across grain into thin slices and plate with cabbage and other vegetables. Servings: 8-10. ■

Since we first published Northside Woman more than seven years ago, we’ve kept our commitment to use only local women as our cover models and main story subjects. We thank our readers and advertisers for their continued support. not step out of line”? When my boys were teenagers and could understand my sarcasm, I would respond “because I love him more”. This, of course, would get eyerolls from them and became a family joke because they knew this wasn’t true, but it was what, in their child-like way, they were “accusing” me of. They began to understand that circumstances surrounding decisions made were made for a reason and in the end was a good decision at that time. So, celebrate what each of your children has to offer and help them build to the fullest on that potential. Not every child can be the best academically . Not every child can be an elite athlete, or musician, or a social butterfly. But when we treat them each with the love, respect, and support necessary for their particular personality, then we treat each of our children the same. ■

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takefive

ways to celebrate st. patrick's day

t. Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on the 17th of March, and named in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. The festival commemorates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, as well as celebrating Irish heritage and culture. St. Patrick's Day is now celebrated by many people throughout the world, Irish and non-Irish alike, with food, drink and all things green. Here are some guidelines on how to celebrate St. Patrick's Day Irish-style!

1. Go green.

Unless you want to, you don't have to wear a sweater with a giant shamrock on it. Accessorize. Buttons, pins and jewelry are all great ways to dress up an outfit. On St. Patrick's Day, they become ways to express the fun side of fashion. Nothing is too gaudy or outlandish.

2. Learn some Irish words and phrases.

The Irish have their own distinct dialect of the English language, so if you want to sound like a true Paddy on St. Patrick's day, try sprinkling some of these Hiberno-English gems into your conversation. Or even better Learn to Irish Dance. Irish dancing is a form of step dancing which is popular both in Ireland and all over the world. Not only will it impress everyone you know, but it's also a fun way to increase flexibility and burn calories!

3. Eat traditional Irish food.

Beer and spirits are not the only great consumable goods to

Internal Medicine Practice of Northside is a full-service practice dedicated to providing the highest-quality primary care for adult patients. Our board certified physicians, Dr. Kenneth Ricci and Dr. Jasmine Park offer comprehensive, personalized care, as well as specialized services in men and women’s health, geriatric medicine and preventative care. We accept most insurance plans and offer a convenient location for the North Atlanta community.

• • • • •

come out of Ireland. Corned beef, cabbage and lamb stew accompanied by traditional Irish soda bread are tasty ways to "keep it real." Potatoes are about as Irish as you can get and are one of the staples of the Irish diet.

4. Attend or get involved in local parades.

If you can't make it to the five-day festival in Dublin, Ireland, check out the scene locally. Many parades feature the best of local dance troupes, marching bands, gymnasts and musicians in addition to spectacular themed floats and brightly costumed participants. You can enjoy the parade as a spectator or contact your local parade organization committee to get involved.

5. Check out the pub scene

Most bars and pubs love St. Patrick's Day, as it's one of the few holidays known for a marked increase in alcohol consumption, so many will be catering to patrons with a festive St. Patrick's theme. You may find special prices on draft beer, food and cover charges. Call around to your favorite joints and ask if they have any celebration plans. ■

Kenneth J. Ricci, D.O.

Board Certified, Family Practice

Welcoming new patients Most insurance plans accepted Same-day appointments available Convenient location Free Parking

Call (770) 410-4610 for an appointment 10745 Westside Way, Suite 125 Alpharetta, GA 30009 InternalMedicinePracticeofNorthside.com

Jasmine J. Park, D.O.

Board Certified, Internal Medicine

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 23

outdoorwoman

Tackling the Trail

As Alpharettanative actress, model and motivational speaker Kimberly Maxwell discovered, hiking the whole of the Appalachian Trail is much more than walking in the woods. By STEVE HUDSON

Outside Georgia Contributor

ou may have seen Kimberly Maxwell and not even known it. Kimberly is an Atlanta actress, model and motivational speaker who has appeared in commercials for companies such as Zaxby’s and Tropical Smoothie, and it’s neat to see someone you know on TV. Just the other evening my wife and I were watching a little TV when the Zaxby’s ad appeared. “Wait a minute!” I said. “Run that back! That’s Kimberly!” But you may also have seen Kimberly if you’ve hiked the Appalachian Trail. Kimberly is a member of that select group of folks who have hiked the entire Appalachian Trail. That’s about 2180 miles…one step at a time. Some start in Georgia and hike straight through to Maine; others do what’s known as a flip-flop hike.To fit her schedule, that’s what Kimberly did, starting in the middle at Damascus, Va., hiking north to Maine, then returning to Virginia and hiking back to Georgia to finish atop Springer Mountain. That’s a lot of hiking. But it’s not the only challenge Kimberly has taken on. She has also won a battle with cancer. “Beating cancer taught me a lot about how limitless I am,” she says, and that helped empower her to tackle the Appalachian Trail. How did folks react when Kimberly began talking about hiking the AT? As her departure date drew nearer, she began to hear warnings that maybe she shouldn’t try it. Quietly at first, and then more loudly, some began to tell her that the hike really wasn’t a good idea. The trail was long, they said. Weather could be rough, they said. And

24 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

there were some bad people out there… “I was told every day how scared I should be,” she recalls. “But if I’d listened to that, I’d never have left the front door.” Instead, Kimberly decided to tell herself “a different story.” “Certainly, I would be aware,” she says. “But I would not be scared.” Kimberly began her hike on May 17 and finished two days before the end of October. Did she ever doubt she would make it? “People ask me when I knew that I’d be successful,” she says, “and I tell them that I already knew I’d make it through on the very day I decided to go.” Yes. But what do you do when the going gets hard and the voice in your head that it would be easy…oh so easy…to call the whole thing off? “There’s a saying among thru-hikers,” she says, “that you have to ‘hike your own hike.’ ” I ask her what that means, and I’m still processing what she said. But I think the bottom line has to do with (at the risk of cliché) charting your own course rather than letting others do it for you. That’s important on an adventure like this. You must decide what you hear: the voice that keeps you moving – or the one that urges you to throw in the towel. “There are no bounds,” Kimberly once noted, “if you don’t impose them on yourself.” It occurs to me that this really is a mindset thing. I know because I tried a little piece of the AT myself just a few weeks ago. It was (how to put it) challenging. I set out figuring I’d make it, but I forgot to let my head know. Instead, partway through and gasping for air, I started wondering if I was going to die right then and there. For me, giving up certainly was an option. And so I took it… publicly sad to have called it quits but secretly thrilled to be heading back to the comfort of the car and the prospect of a Yonah Burger on the way home.

Come to think of it, too many of those burgers just might have been part of my problem. I’m going to have to deal with that and try again. But I still ask “what if?” What if I had decided, at the get-go, to take “turning back” off the table? That’s what Kimberly did, and she finished the trail. “That doesn’t mean that there were never hard days,” she says, “or even hard weeks. It doesn’t mean that there weren’t times when I was cold or lonely. But giving up wasn’t an option.” Instead, she says, “My only option was to come up with an alternate plan.” What would she say to other women who are considering such an adventure? “I’d say to them, ‘You’re capable,’ ” she says. In fact, that’s what she emphasizes when she speaks to groups about her experience and what it means. “I speak about choosing bravery,” she says, “and about not listening to fear.” Hiking the Appalachian Trail, she adds, “proved I can do anything.” She sums it up like this: “I walked 2,189.2 miles, crossed through 14 states, saw 13 bears, one moose, one rattlesnake, countless other wildlife, took two trips to New York City, a trip to Washington D.C., a trip to Portland, Maine, a trip to urgent care, saw seven plays, was given nearly $400 by complete strangers, had five complete breakdowns, made friends with some of the most selfless people I’ve ever met, and learned more about myself than I could’ve ever imagined. “I learned that I am smart, strong, and brave,” she adds, “and that there are no limits to what I’m able to achieve. I realized that I can do anything. Can you?” ----You can learn more about Kimberly Maxwell’s Appalachian Trail experience through her blog at www. KimbersAppalachianAdventures.wordpress.com. To learn more about having Kimberly speak to your group or organization, contact her at KimberlyLMaxwell16@gmail.com. ■

outdoorwoman

A taste of the trail

Want to sample what it’s like to hike the Appalachian Trail in Georgia? It’s easy – and oh so hard! By STEVE HUDSON

Outside Georgia Contributor

or many Georgia outdoor enthusiasts, the Appalachian Trail offers the ultimate hiking adventure. The trail, with a total length of about 2,200 miles, begins in Georgia atop Springer Mountain and stays within the state for the next 79 miles before entering North Carolina at Bly Gap.

Alas, life gets in the way and not everyone can hike the whole thing. But it’s easy to sample the AT hiking experience, and one of the best places to start is at Unicoi Gap on Georgia Highway 75 between Helen and Hiawassee. Going north from Helen, you can’t miss Unicoi Gap. Just look for the highest point on the road to Hiawassee. A large parking area on the right side of the road marks the intersection with the trail, and from there it’s easy to experience what it’s like to hike the AT. The sampler hike I’m thinking of is a short (by AT standards) in-and-out hike from Unicoi Gap up to the summit of Rocky Mountain. You’ll start at the parking area, hike to the summit, and then hike back to the parking area and your car. Distance-wise, it’s only about 1.4 miles each way. That doesn’t sound too bad. From the parking area, start near a large boulder which boasts a bronze plaque celebrating the Appalachian Trail. The trail enters the woods there, and the first few steps are easy. The Appalachian Trail’s iconic white blazes (rectangular marks painted on trees) identify the route and reassure you that you’re on the right track Pretty soon, though, you’ll get a gentle reminder from your legs that you’re still climbing – and the ascent

goes on and on and on. Various hikers have described this stretch as “daunting,” “unrelenting,” and “torturous.” The trail continues upward, seemingly forever, as you make the 1,000-foot ascent (there…I said it…ahead of you is 1,000 feet of unrelenting climbing) from the gap to the top of Rocky Mountain. I could, of course, point out that 1,000 feet is close to a fifth of a mile, but that might be a little cruel. Just keep looking for that next white blaze. And don’t hesitate to stop and catch your breath whenever you need to. Are we having fun yet? Somewhere in there, you’ll ask yourself this question: Why put yourself through this when there are plenty of level trails out there too? There are the views, of course. This time of year, before the trees are fully leafed out, some of those views can be spectacular – especially from the summit of Rocky Mountain. If you make it to the summit, I’ll bet you say that it was all worthwhile. But there’s something else too. Simply tackling this section of the trail puts you in the company of those who have done the entire thing. For a moment, it’s easy to imagine that you’re setting out to walk all the way to Maine. Can you imagine what that’s like? It must surely be a heady thing. ■

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ask the vet

The good bad of pet food

26 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

By DR. JOANNE ROESNER, DVM, DABVP Loving Hands Animal Hospital www.lovinghands.com

he amount of deception and misrepresentation in pet food labeling is huge. Most pet owners are completely unaware of the meaning of terms on labels and what they indicate about the content of the bag or can of food. The word “with,” for example, indicates 3 percent of an ingredient; while a “dinner” or stew has 25 percent of an ingredient. Ingredient lists may not even indicate what is in the container of food you purchase. It is legal for manufacturers to change ingredients without changing the label for six months. Another area of misrepresentation and misunderstanding is related to the list of ingredients. There are no magic ingredients or any wholly evil ones. Pet food manufacturers have done animals a huge disservice by adding unusual protein sources (lamb, duck, bison, emu, venison, pheasant, etc.) to foods and implying somehow these benefit pets. There is nothing innately exceptional about these protein sources; the reason they have been utilized in medical diets for skin and gastrointestinal problems is because they had not been eaten by animals before and thus would not elicit allergy. Unfortunately, now the only diets which are truly hypoallergenic are those made with protein, which has been broken down into fragments. These are much more expensive than their predecessors. Another ingredient misconception, which marketers have promoted, is that of “grain-free” diets. Cats are true carnivores and do not have the metabolic

processes to digest carbohydrates well. Dogs and humans are omnivores and benefit from carbohydrates in the diet. Sensitivities to food generally are related to the protein source, not to carbohydrates, so there is no benefits to grain-free diets in this regard. Since ingredients are listed in order of weight, manufacturers can manipulate the order of ingredients by using non-dehydrated meat products. Although most of the weight is water, these ingredients will appear first in the list because they are heavier than dried ingredients, which are really the main components of the food. There is no perfect diet, and each diet should be matched with the individual pet’s needs. Pet foods from major manufacturers generally have superior quality control and testing than the more exotic, boutique manufacturers. Only pet foods which state clearly that they are complete and balanced and meet AAFCO requirements are safe to feed long term. Frustrated, loving pet parents may attempt to avoid the conundrum of commercial diets by home cooking. Unless your diet has been formulated by a nutritionist, you use the BalanceIt.com website and you do not change the formula that has been evaluated. This unfortunately is likely unbalanced and potentially dangerous. In a study of 200 diets on the internet, only four were nutritionally sound, so getting a diet off the computer is no guarantee of safety. ■

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herstyle

Design N

SPONSORED SECTION

A Homecoming: Dr. Brent Taylor returns to Alpharetta and brings excellence back home! F amily, friends and the communities of north Atlanta are celebrating as Dr. Brent Taylor and his family have returned home to where they grew up and are starting a first-class dermatology, Mohs surgery and vein care practice. Brent grew up in Roswell and attended Marist School where he was valedictorian. His wife Ashley was born and raised in Alpharetta and graduated from Milton High School. Together the Taylors are raising two rambunctious boys, Beckett 3, and Gavin 1. After completing twelve years of higher education, Dr. Taylor and his family explored life in Florida. He practiced as the Mohs surgeon at University of Florida in Gainesville and worked in the busiest private practice in Jacksonville, Florida. The desire to be with family and friends drew Dr. Taylor and his family home to north Atlanta. They are opening a practice in Alpharetta to serve the community that has for so long supported them. Dr. Taylor’s resume is impressive to say the least. He graduated from Harvard College in 3 years and attended Vanderbilt School of Medicine on a full, merit-based scholarship. He received his first choices for post-graduate training and was able to work with renowned Mohs surgeons during both his residency at

the Medical University of South Carolina and during his ACGME accredited fellowship in procedural dermatology at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California. He is doubleboarded, board certified in dermatology and certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in vein care. He is one of the first Mohs surgeons in Georgia to offer true Mohs surgery for melanoma with in-office specialized stains to detect cancer cells and maximize a patient’s chance of cure. Melanoma patients are treated

and, in most cases, repaired within a single day. Generally, no outside pathology is needed. Training by celebrated cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Leland Housman and cosmetic and laser dermatologist Dr. Vic Ross, both of La Jolla, California, has enabled Dr. Taylor to offer truly state-of-the-art vein care for medically significant vein disease and cosmetic spider veins alike. Depending on an individual patient’s findings, a combination of endovenous laser ablation, foam or liquid sclerotherapy, phlebectomy, and light-based devices help restore patients’ veins to as good as new. Dr. Taylor’s practice, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, opens January 30th 2017 in the Gates at North Point development, on the corner of North Point Parkway and Webb Bridge Road. He offers comprehensive dermatology services from skin exams to Mohs surgery, advanced minimally invasive vein treatment procedures and cosmetic services including Botox and fillers. Consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta for you and your loved ones’ skin care needs. Congratulations to Dr. Taylor and Premier Dermatology! To learn more about Dr. Taylor, visit him online at www.premierdermatologyatlanta.com ■

When is the best time to get braces? By DR. JEFFREY JORDAN, Jordan ORTHODONTICS

rthodontic treatment today is about faces not just braces. Consequently, facial esthetics dictates the proper timing for treatment. While treatment can contribute to the physical and psychological development of patients young and old, some patients require early JORDAN intervention. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial visit to an orthodontist at age 7 for this reason. Most patients do not need early treatment, but if necessary, amazing improvements in facial esthetics and function can be accomplished. The common orthodontic problems that can be treated in between 7 and 9 years old include underbites and severe overbites as well as patients with crossbites and openbites. These conditions are considered muscular skeletal problems and are best addressed in the mixed dentition when the permanent front teeth are erupting. These treatments are referred to as dentofacial orthopedics because we are working with the bones of the face and not just the teeth. The majority of patients benefit from a single treatment during adolescence, as the last few primary teeth are lost and the second molars erupt. The exact age varies, but most patients are treated during the middle school years and can be completed by high school. Of course, sometimes the teeth are slow to erupt and this can delay the completion of treatment. For this reason, starting treatment too early can prolong treatment duration and result in orthodontic burnout for the patients. Patient cooperation is important in keeping the treatments short in duration and efficient. Interestingly, girl’s teeth erupt earlier than boys of the same age. Teenagers are usually in a rapid growth phase during this period. As a result, dramatic results can be achieved with

34 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

improved facial esthetics and function. For example, the smile can be made wider, the lower jaw can be advanced, or a gummy smile can be eliminated. A smile analysis dictates in what direction the teeth and jaws should be moved. These changes can be life altering for some patients during the teen years. Of course, adults want to look good too, and orthodontic treatment for adults is more popular than ever! Invisalign, clear braces, and improvements in surgical techniques make having a fantastic smile easier too. The bulky braces and heavy forces of yesteryear are a thing of the past. Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that move the teeth. Each aligner moves the teeth a quarter of a millimeter and is worn for about two weeks. The number of aligners is dictated by how crowded or spaced out your

teeth are at the beginning. Clear or ceramic braces combined with new superelastic memory wires have made traditional orthodontic treatment more esthetic and more efficient and comfortable . The teeth move a little every day and the forces on the teeth are very light. For more dramatic changes, orthognathic surgery can totally transform ones appearance if necessary. Adults who desire improved facial esthetics can benefit from orthodontics combined with surgery to correct facial imbalances. In this situation, the braces are placed on the teeth for about six months prior to surgery and remain on the teeth for a few months after the procedure. So the best time to get treatment is when you or your child is ready to improve that smile! It’s about faces not just braces. ■

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Fighting Cancer with Hope

Feel Beautiful Today Hosts a Fashion Show for Cancer With Hope –Hosted by the Metropolitan Club and Dillard’s The Feel Beautiful Today organization (FBT), a 501(c)(3) created in 2010 with the mission of providing love, hope and encouragement to women and girls affected by cancer, announces its second annual Fashion Show to benefit cancer patients and survivors in the Atlanta area. The Fighting Cancer With Hope Spring Fashion Show and luncheon will be held at the Metropolitan Club in Alpharetta Wednesday April 19th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to benefit cancer patients right here in Georgia. It will be a great event featuring a Fashion Show, presented by Dillard’s, several beautiful survivors and cancer patients, Hors d’Oeuvres, formal seated lunch, dessert, Silent Auction, and a presentation from the Executive Director Biviana Franco. Tickets are $30. All proceeds, including sales from the Silent Auction, will allow Feel Beautiful Today to continue providing Arts in Health programs to cancer patients free of charge at their 15 beneficiaries-in-kind hospitals and cancer centers in Georgia. “We are excited about this event and appreciate the support of the Metropolitan Club and Dillard’s”, said Biviana Franco, FBT’s Executive Director. “This is our second Fashion Show and it is always extra special because it features several beautiful and courageous cancer patients and survivors”, added Franco. “My sponsorship of FBT is based on my own cancer experience. I believe that my heart and my head contributed as much to my success as any medical intervention. To help a woman feel like a whole, totally capable person and not a patient....is the way to save her life”, added Lee Chadwick Owner of the Metropolitan Club. “Dillard’s is over joyed to have the opportunity to style the courageously beautiful women of Feel Beautiful Today! We believe that styling women is not just about clothes, but about helping women feel their most beautiful everyday”, Leandra Mabry, ASM-RTW for Dillard’s Atlantic Station. About The Metropolitan Club: The Metropolitan Club is the ultimate culmination of a series of successful metro Atlanta event facilities owned and operated by Lee Chadwick. This spectacular venue has hosted events of every kind. Since opening in October 2003, the club has gained a well deserved reputation as one of metro Atlanta’s very finest event facilities with a unique, socially provocative design. Our dedicated professionals will guide you through every step of the planning process, ensuring a flawless event for you and your guests. www.themetropolitanclub.net About Dillard’s: Dillard’s, Inc. ranks among the nation’s largest fashion retailers with annual revenues exceeding $6 billion. The Company focuses on delivering style, service and value to its shoppers by offering compelling fashion, cosmetics and home selections complemented by exceptional customer care. Dillard’s stores offer a broad selection of merchandise and feature products from both national and exclusive brand sources. The Company operates 271 Dillard’s locations and 23 clearance centers spanning 29 states plus an Internet store at www.dillards.com. About Feel Beautiful Today: Feel Beautiful Today® is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that was established in September of 2010 with the singular mission of providing love, hope and encouragement to women and girls affected by cancer. The organization partners with cancer centers and hospitals who are focused on providing “Integrative Oncology” -- an approach that looks at the whole patient, body, mind and spirit. FBT is staffed entirely by volunteers, which enables us to invest more than 90% of the donations received into fulfilling our mission. Since 2010, FBT has delivered more than 5,300 Arts in Health programs to women and girls affected by cancer.

info@feelbeautifultoday.org

www.feelbeautifultoday.org

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 35

todo

All month

Summer Serendipity View the works of the Johns Creek Arts Center’s newest exhibit and juried fine arts competition, Summer Serendipity. This free exhibit will showcase works in all mediums created by local artists. It will run at the Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700 in Johns Creek www.johnscreekarts.org Spotlight Artist: Greg Ferguson “Bearing Witness” The Photography of Greg Ferguson will showcase Ferguson’s award-winning photography of the natural world. The gallery will be shown at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St. in Roswell. www.gregferguson.us.com

MARCH 1

“Having Our Say” Through March 5. See the story of the Delany sisters, both over 100-year-old descendants of slaves, as they recount their family history and careers in this play that celebrates history, women and men, African Americans and the human spirit. See the play at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St. in Roswell. Tickets start at $21. www.get.org “I, Too, Am America” Through March 3. View original works at “I, Too, Am America,” a multimedia exhibition by local artists exploring the experience of being black in America. The gallery will be up through March 3 at the Johns Creek Art Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek. www.johnscreekarts.org

MARCH 3

“Steel Magnolias” Shows continue through March 19, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The celebrated Southern classic of family and friendship, this is the story of a group of strong and beautiful women Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play moves toward tragedy. Alpharetta Presbyterian Church Theater, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. www.act1theater.com

MARCH 4

Free photos with the Easter Bunny 10 a.m.-noon. Stop by the Alpharetta Welcome Center, 178 South Main St., for an individual or family photo with the bunny of the hour. A photo will be printed for you to take away and emailed to share with friends and family. This is a free event and refreshments will be served. No reservations required. www.awesomealpharetta.com

MARCH 8

National Wild Turkey Federation Banquet Starts at 6 p.m. Join for the 19th annual banquet, with silent and live auctions. There will also be wildlife art displays, raffles, food and door prizes. The banquet will be held at the Forsyth Convention Center, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd. in Cumming. Tickets start at $65 for adults, $25 for children. www.nwtf.org 36 | northsidewoman.com | march2017

MARCH MARCH 10

Bulloch Hall Quilt Show Continues through March 19. The Bulloch Hall Quilt Guild will present its 35th Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show at historic Bulloch Hall, featuring around 200 quilts made by local artists and displayed throughout the antebellum home. www.bhqg.org

MARCH 11

SCAD Printmaking Exhibit Through April 21. View an exhibition of contemporary prints, multiples and artists' books created by SCAD students, alumni and faculty. This exhibit showcases the innovative ways both traditional and digital printmaking processes can be used to express ideas and concepts in the 21st century. Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekarts.org Roswell Dance Starz 1-2:30 p.m. Roswell Dance Starz will be presenting their Winter Concert "Tribute: A Dancer's Celebration of Art, Literature, Music, Film and Stage" showcasing their dance company members ages 7-18. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St. www.tututix.com/roswelldancestarz Alpharetta Police K-9 5K Foot Chase 7:30-9:30 a.m. The race is on a certified course with chip timing. There will be the chance to win prizes just for entering. All of the proceeds will benefit the Alpharetta Public Safety Foundation. Other dogs are welcome. Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell St. awesomealpharetta.com

MARCH 16

“9 to 5 The Musical” Shows through March 15. “9 to 5 The Musical,” with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Set in the late 1970s, this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. There is some adult content and situations. www. miltontheatrecompany.com

MARCH 17

“Oscar and Felix: A New Look at ‘The Odd Couple’” Dinner theater March 17 at 6:30 p.m., and March 18 at 5:30 p.m.. 4 p.m. show March 19. Acting UP, a drama ministry of Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd., presents “Oscar and Felix: A New Look at ‘The Odd Couple,” by Neil Simon. www.rumcActingUp.webs.com

MARCH 18

Roswell Reads Literary Luncheon 11:30 a.m. “The Underdogs” by Melissa Fay Greene has been chosen for the 12th annual Roswell Reads community program. The author will join local residents for a luncheon and will discuss her personal and professional life experiences that led her to research and write this compelling story. Join the book discussion at the Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road. Tickets are $20. www.roswellreads.com

Water Drop Dash 5K and Festival 8 a.m. Fast and flat along the banks of the beautiful Chattahoochee River, it is an ideal course to qualify for Atlanta’s signature Peachtree Road Race and encourages metro Atlanta residents to conserve water. There is both a 5K and Kid’s Fun Run, followed by awards and a water festival with games, giveaways and face painting. The race begins and ends at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell. www.waterdropdash.com

MARCH 19

High Heels & High Times Noon-4 p.m. High Heels High Times is an afternoon of fashion shows, raffles, food and shopping to help support girls’ self-esteem in our community. This networking event raises funds for the Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties’ charity programs. Alpharetta Marriott, 5750 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. Tickets are $50. www.jlgnf.org Chopin Society Piano Recital 7-9 p.m. The Chopin Society of Atlanta presents a piano recital by Marek Drewnowski. He is a professor at the Lodz Academy of Music in Poland and gives master classes all over the world. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St. www.chopinatlanta.org

MARCH 22

Crooked Creek Spring Fling 5-9 p.m. Bring a few friends and enjoy shopping the latest designs of local vendors. Light refreshments and door prizes will be available. All proceeds will benefit the Milton Police Department. Crooked Creek Clubhouse, 14250 Creek Club Drive in Milton. www.crookedcreekonline.com

MARCH 24

RUMCK Semiannual Children’s Consignment Sale 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Also March 55, 8 a.m.-noon. The Roswell United Methodist Church Preschool and Kindergarten will host its semiannual children’s consignment sale in the church fellowship hall, 814 Mimosa Blvd. in Roswell. There will be three overflowing rooms with more than 200 consignors. Donated items are given to the Foster Care Support Foundation. www.rumc.com/rumck

MARCH 25

Shamrockin’ for a Cure 7 p.m. Shamrockin’ for a Cure returns to Alpharetta to rock your night with great food, amazing bands and dancing. Help cure cystic fibrosis with a night filled with music that will rock the stage at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway in Alpharetta. Tickets include food, drinks and giveaways, and are $95 ($34 tax deductible). www.shamrockinforacure.com Beyond Impressionism: Debussy and Vaughan Williams 7:30 p.m. The Michael O’Neal Singers and Georgia Philharmonic partner again this

season in a program of music by Claude Debussy and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Lassiter Concert Hall, 2601 Shallowford Road, Marietta www.mosingers.com “A Tale for All Times” March 19, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Atlanta Dance Theatre presents “A Tale for All time,” a fresh take on the classic fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast,” with choreography by Shelley Grames. A visual delight, the show is a must-see for all ages. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. www.atlantadancetheatre.org Roswell Beer Fest 2-6 p.m. The annual Roswell Beer Festival in Historic Roswell returns with over 300 different types of beer, along with great food and live shows. All proceeds will benefit the Star House Foundation, a charity servicing at-risk youth in North Fulton. Tickets are $50 and include a tasting glass for sampling. www.roswellbeerfestival.com Flashlight Egg Hunt 7:30-9:30 p.m. Come out for an adventure to hunt eggs in the dark with nothing but flashlights. Be sure to keep an eye out for one of the golden eggs to redeem for a basket of prizes. Light refreshments will be served before the event begins. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register online. East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road. www.roswellgov.com Health and Wellness Expo 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to participate in this free event, designed to recognize the importance of health and wellness in the community. Free demonstrations, screenings and wellness education will be available. Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road. www.roswellgov.com

MARCH 31

2017 Plant Sale 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and April 1, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The annual Forsyth County Master Gardener Plant Sale offers a wide variety of southern plants and garden accents. Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice. The Barn at Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road in Cumming. www.cummingfair.net

Looking Ahead: April APRIL 6

“Million Dollar Quartet” Through April 23. Four guys walk into Sun Records, only this isn't just any four guys. It's December 4, 1956 and early rock 'n roll stars Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash, along with newcomer Jerry Lee Lewis find themselves in the legendary Memphis recording studio in this musical. www.get.org ■

march2017 | northsidewoman.com | 37

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