Northside Woman, July 2014

JULY 2014

Patriotic Girls

American Legion’s Junior Auxiliary

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staff

Katie VanBrackle

Candy Waylock

katie@northsidewoman.com

candy@northsidewoman.com

Suzanne Pacey

Devon Morgan

EDITOR

DEVON MORGAN, PHOTOSYNTHESIS ATLANTA

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

SENIOR WRITER

PHOTOGRAPHER

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Christina Appen PUBLISHER

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general manager Hans Appen hans@northsidewoman.com sales executives Hans Appen, Abby Breaux, Becky Nelson, Wendy Goddard, June Meltzer, Jade Rodgers, Mike Dorman, James Carr sales assistants Susan Hernandez, Phyllis Anderton production Suzanne Pacey, David Brown, A.J. McNaughton

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{ INSIDE }

northside women { 6 }

PATRIOTIC GIRLS American Legion’s Junior Auxiliary

{ 8 } UNSUNG SHE’RO

Jacqueline Holland’s cancer foundation { 10 } THE INTERVIEW

Motorcycle Mamas in Alpharetta { 18 } WOMEN & WINE

Alpharetta Network of female

business owners

northside lifestyle { 14 } SHE READS

Atlanta author Emily Giffin { 20 } TAKE A RUN ON THE

Dark Side / Bright Side { 26 } TAKE FIVE

Classic shows at local theaters

the cover Ah, the lazy days of summer! Milton resident Ally Fitzgerald and her daughters were pool-perfect models for our July issue. Jaymee kept her pretty curls dry just long enough for us to snap the cover image, while Taylor posed with her mom for the Water Workout story on page 30.

{ 28 } HER BEAUTY The perfect brows { 30 } HER HEALTH Water Workout { 32 } HER STYLE Trendy Totes for Summer { 36 } ASK THE VET { 38 } JULY CALENDAR

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www.siprestaurants.com july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 5

girlpower

Patriotic

girls

Young women honor and serve military veterans through the American Legion Junior Auxiliary

By KATIE VANBRACKLE

katie@northsidewoman.com

2

3 1. Members of the American Legion Junior Auxiliary, from left, Faith Wagner, Meghan Deehan, Tara Deehan, Alex Roll-Mitchell, Lindsey Laubenstein, Anna Ezrine, Chandler Moore, Christana Wagner.

2. Lindsey Burr and Chandler Moore help someone locate the name of a loved one on the Traveling Vietnam Wall in Canton.

3. Anna Ezrine, Chandler Moore, Christana Wagner and Kim Oliver load up Christmas gift donations for the Junior Auxiliary’s Adopt-A-Vet family.

6 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

KATIE VANBRACKLE

1

T

he American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), founded in 1919, is the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization, with a mission to honor the sacrifice of those who serve in the United States armed forces by enhancing the lives of veterans, military and their families, both at home and abroad.

The ALA encourages young women to get involved as well, with a Junior Auxiliary program available to girls through age 17. Junior members volunteer with other girls in their age group, planning community service projects and conducting their own meetings.

In 2011, local resident Tana Wagner helped re-energize the Junior Auxiliary at Alpharetta’s Post 201 by bringing in a group of young freshmen from Milton High School.

“To be eligible for membership, you must be a daughter, granddaughter, great granddaughter or sister of a member of the American Legion or someone who served in the armed forces of the United States during certain wartime periods,” Wagner explained, adding that the group is actively recruiting new members.

“Our motto is Service Before Self,” said Kim Oliver, who serves as president of Post 201’s Auxiliary. “The Juniors are involved in a wide variety of activities, including handing out poppies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day to local residents in exchange for donations to the Auxiliary, and collecting toiletry and comfort items for an annual Stand Down event through the Atlanta V.A. Hospital, where homeless veterans are provided with services such as food, shelter, clothing and health screenings.”

Last fall, several young women volunteered at the American Heroes Air Show in Canton, where the Traveling Vietnam Wall was set up – a three-fifths scale replica of the actual memorial located in Washington, D.C. Christana Wagner used a laptop to help visitors search a computer database for the location of names of the deceased on the wall.

“Visitors came to us with very little information on the person, but we were able to find the location of the name by narrowing down the hometown, branch, etc.,” she said. “You could see the real joy and sometimes pain on some people’s face once we gave them the panel and line

number of a loved one’s name.

“This service to our veterans was really special to be a part of,” she said.

“We’ve been able to help active soldiers and retired veterans, so it’s been neat to see how we can affect these people at different points in their military life.

Seeing how much they appreciate it makes every effort beyond worth it.”

Wagner’s experience was made all the more poignant as she hopes to soon join the U.S. military herself. Wagner, who graduated from Milton High School in May, was one of two North Fulton students who received a coveted appointment to the United States Air Force Academy.

Junior Auxiliary member Chandler Moore’s most memorable service project was the Adopt-A-Veteran Christmas program held in December 2013. The Juniors adopted a family of eight – an older couple with six grandchildren in their care – and solicited donations of bikes, coats, boots and toys for each child.

“Our group learned about a struggling military family in the Atlanta area, and it meant the world to us to be able to give back to them by providing a ‘miracle Christmas,’” said Moore.

“More than anything else, my involvement with the American Legion has opened my eyes to the extreme dedication and courage that we have backing our great nation. Having the opportunity to serve those who have defended the country that I love has been a privilege, and we’ve certainly had a lot of fun along the way.”

Moore, who was recently named valedictorian of Milton High School’s class of 2014, listed her work with the American Legion as some of the “proudest moments” of her years in high school.

The graduating members of the Junior Auxiliary were honored in June at a special meeting at Post 201. When each young woman turns 18, she will become a full member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

At the meeting, Anna Ezrine reflected on her four years of service.

“Volunteering through the American Legion, with some of my best friends, has been such an incredible experience,” said Ezrine. “I love knowing that I have made even the smallest positive impact in my community. The fact that we get to give back to the incredible men and women who have done, and still do, so much for us and our country is an amazing feeling.

I know that I will continue volunteering in the future because it is near and dear to my heart.” ■

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unsung‘she’ro

Honoring a courageous spirit Alpharetta mother creates cancer foundation in memory of her son Jacqueline Holland with her son Ryan Holland in 2010.

By ADELE BAKER Editor’s note: In response to our request for readers to share their “Favorite Northside Woman,” Johns Creek resident Adele Baker contacted us to share her admiration for Jacqueline Holland of Alpharetta. Baker met Holland through the website Volunteer Spot when Baker was searching for more ways to volunteer in her community. Baker was inspired by Holland’s courage and generosity in creating a foundation to support cancer patients and their families after losing her own 25-year-old son to the disease. Here, Baker tells Holland’s story.

J

acqueline Holland, who lives in Alpharetta with her husband and daughter, started a nonprofit organization, the Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation, in 2011 to honor her son who ended his battle with colon cancer at the age of 25.

Ryan Lee Holland was a promising college graduate who was employed at the Walgreens pharmacy on Kimball

Bridge Road in Alpharetta when he was diagnosed. Throughout his treatment at Emory Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston, Texas, Jacqueline was present in her son’s life.

While Ryan underwent treatment at MD Anderson, he had to travel back and forth to Houston on several occasions.

During this time, Jacqueline realized the hardships a family goes through due to the burden of unpaid medical expenses, and saw how this burden impacts an individual’s treatment.

Only four weeks after Ryan’s death, Jacqueline’s husband was diagnosed with colon cancer, his second bout with the disease, having originally been diagnosed in 1991.

Fortunately, right now he is doing well. Many people would want to crawl into a corner after this. Not Jacqueline.

She was inspired to create a foundation so that Ryan’s courageous spirit would live on through it.

Her vision was to help cancer patients

A motorcycle ride fundraiser for the foundation was held in 2011. The group drove around I-285, then celebrated at Riverside Park afterward.

8 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

in active treatment with unpaid medical expenses, no matter their diagnosis. She fully understood the hardships that cancer patients and their families go through because she had lived their struggle.

While many cancer organizations raise money to go to research for a cure, which is certainly important, the Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation gives money directly to cancer patients to help with medical expenses, doctor’s visit copayments and travel and parking expenses at hospitals, helping ease their financial burden so they can focus on getting better.

In 2011, the foundation gave funds to 70 individuals. In 2012, it was 144, and in 2013 it was 153, including patients from Georgia Cancer Specialists, Northside Hospital, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Erlanger Cancer Center, Stemmer Clinic and DeKalb Medical Center.

Jacqueline was also able to provide assistance for patients through an affiliation with the American Cancer

Center and the Patient Advocate Foundation.

The Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation relies upon private donations, grants and fundraisers, such as a 5K run planned for the fall of 2014 in Roswell.

Jacqueline was born in Liberia and came to the United States in the 1970s with her mother and brothers. She earned a Master’s in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and currently she works as executive vice president of operations for Urey Companies, a construction business in Alpharetta.

But she feels her greatest accomplishment was raising her two children, Ryan and Courtney, into Christian individuals and outstanding members of their community. Courtney is also active in the foundation her mother created, helping with fundraising and social media.

To learn more about the Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation, visit www. ryanleehollandfoundation.org. ■

Participants in the first 5K Run for Ryan, held in October 2013.

july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 9

theinterview

Motorcycle katie@northsidewoman.com

W

hen Stephanie Brewer’s youngest child moved away from home, leaving behind an empty nest, she felt the same sense of displacement many women feel when entering a new phase of life.

“I felt sort of lost and wondered, ‘What now?’” she said. “I prayed constantly that my husband and I would find something new to do together, allowing us to stay connected.”

Much to her surprise, the answer to her prayers took the form of a 550-pound Harley Davidson Sportster named Ruby.

She remembers thinking, “Well, this is not at all what I expected, but yes! Let’s do it!”

Brewer and her husband began riding motorcycles with friends in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. When the couple moved to Milton a year ago, they immediately looked for ways to continue pursuing their newfound hobby.

“Only a few days after we moved to Georgia, we drove halfway back to North Carolina to join our friends for a weekend ride, but we knew that couldn’t last,” said Brewer. “On our second weekend, we hooked up with the Alpharetta Road Runners and met a whole new group of friends.”

The Alpharetta Road Runners is a group of local motorcycle enthusiasts who meet up regularly for both long and short rides. The group was founded by Annette and Joe Sanchez, who rode with a similar group in Portland, Oregon, before moving to Johns Creek in 2008.

Annette Sanchez’s story is similar to Brewer’s. After becoming an empty nester,

Sanchez was looking for new interests, but she refused to even look at her husband’s motorcycle.

However, after seeing the beautiful photographs he took on his rides through the Pacific Northwest landscape, she decided she wanted to see those scenes for herself. Swallowing her fear, she donned a helmet and hopped on the back of his motorcycle for her first ride.

“It’s been huge for us,” she said. “Such a positive thing for our marriage.”

Sanchez laughs at the memory of her daughter returning home from college and commenting, “Well, I never thought I’d see my mother dressed in black leather.”

Now on her fourth solo bike, an 830-pound Harley Davidson Street Glide named Gypsy Rose, Sanchez not only organizes local rides with the Alpharetta Road Runners, but also has a leadership role with the national Motor Maids, an allfemale biker group with 1,200 members in the United States and Canada.

“Life changing” is how she describes her first major road trip with the Motor Maids. “We drove over 2,600 miles on a twoday ride to Michigan,” she recalled. “It was my first ride without Joe and I was terrified before I left, constantly worrying about all the ‘what ifs.’

But going through that experience left me with such a huge sense of selfconfidence. I’m not exaggerating – it was life changing.”

For Kelly Vandever of Milton, riding her Honda Rebel Black Betty, is “almost a religious experience.”

“It’s just you and the bike out there,” she said. “You leave all of your stress and worry behind and don’t think about anything but the feel of the road and being in the moment.”

Vandever, who began riding on the

There is a stereotype of bikers as really tough characters, but most of the Alpharetta Road Runners are executives and professionals.

And three of us are grandmothers.”

ANNETTE SANCHEZ

10 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

Alpharetta Road Runners, from left, are Susan Froman, Annette Sanchez, Stephanie Brewer and Kelly Vandever.

back of her husband Rich’s bike, says she was “scared to death at first, but my need to be rebellious kept me on.”

She attended a Motorcycle Safety Foundation training course in Alpharetta and walked away with her very own license to ride.

“I think Rich is grateful that I enjoy motorcycles so much, because he doesn’t have to feel guilty about leaving me to go on long rides. Now, we go together,” she said.

Most members of the Alpharetta Road Runners are roughly the same age and at a similar point in life, something Sanchez said adds to the chemistry between the riders.

“The group is open to anyone, but by coincidence or not, we all seem to be on the same page,” she said.

Susan Froman of Dawsonville is one of the Road Runner’s earliest members.

Divorced, she finds riding with the group to be a safe way for a single woman to enjoy motorcycle road trips.

“When I first started riding, I thought I’d be snubbed for being a woman,” she said. “But that wasn’t the case at all.

Everyone I’ve met has been so friendly and welcoming.”

Sanchez added, “People really

► See INTERVIEW, Page 12

KATIE VANBRACKLE

By KATIE VANBRACKLE

KATIE VANBRACKLE

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theinterview

1 ▼ INTERVIEW, Continued from Page 10 get a kick out of lady riders. There is a stereotype of bikers as really tough characters, but most of the Alpharetta Road Runners are executives and professionals. And three of us are grandmothers.”

Brewer, who works as a nanny, must explain to her employers that she might occasionally arrive for work on her Harley Davidson. It’s not exactly the Mary Poppins look, but Brewer says after the initial surprise, most people find it “really cool.”

The Road Runners recently took a four-day trip to North Carolina where Brewer rented a large mountain cabin for the 11-member group. Half of the riders

on that trip were women. Taking turns cooking meals and roasting s’mores in the evenings, the riders enjoyed day trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway and to the Biltmore Estate.

“The final destination isn’t really the point,” said Brewer. “It’s all about the riding.”

Brewer’s adult daughter is not a big fan of her mother’s “need for speed” and often gives her mom lectures on the need to stay safe on the road.

Sanchez admits that she would never have felt comfortable riding motorcycles when her own children were young. But now, in middle age, the timing is right.

Apparently there are a few perks to that empty nest after all.

To learn more about the Alpharetta Road Runners, visit www.meetup.com/ alpharettamotorcycleroadrunners/. ■

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1. Weekend road trip to the North Carolina mountains.

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KATIE VANBRACKLE

shereads

Emily Giffin photographs her fans at FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock.

Getting to know Emily Giffin Popular Atlanta author greets fans in Woodstock

By KATIE VANBRACKLE

katie@northsidewoman.com

KATIE VANBRACKLE

O Atlanta author Emily Giffin.

n June 12, it was standing room only in FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock as fans of Atlanta author Emily Giffin packed the house to hear Giffin speak about her latest novel, “The One and Only.”

Colleen Hicks, Laura Gray and Mandy Densmore drove from Alpharetta to meet Giffin, one of their favorite authors.

“We’ve read every single one of her

books,” said Hicks. “We think Emily is our best friend, but she just doesn’t know it yet. Her characters are so memorable and we just lose ourselves in her books. It’s like escaping into a whole other life.”

Giffin, a Chicago native who previously practiced litigation at a large New York law firm, began writing fulltime after her first novel, “Something Borrowed,” became a surprise sensation.

A movie version of the book hit theaters

► See SHE READS, Page 16

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shereads ▼ SHE READS, Continued from Page 14

Q: How were you able to write so well about the world of football? Are you a big football fan yourself?

A: This is my first time writing a novel with the backdrop being the world of athletics. My publishers were a bit unsure – is this really your core demographic? I told them yes, here in the South, women love sports – including myself. I was the men’s basketball manager at Wake Forest during the Tim Duncan era. But I didn’t have as much experience with football, or with the state of Texas, so I traveled to Dallas to do a bit of research. I checked into a hotel, sampled a lot of guacamole and tequila and attended spring practice at SMU [Southern Methodist University], where the coaches let me observe and follow the team around, picking up lots of little details.

I also sent the book to some sports friends, including Coach Dye of Auburn University, asking for feedback. Coach Dye said it rang true, and that I nailed the bit about superstitions. He asked me, ‘How can a Yankee from Chicago know so much about football?’

Q: Were you happy with the movie version

KATIE VANBRACKLE

in 2011, starring Kate Hudson and John Krasinski.

Giffin now lives in Buckhead with her husband and three young children. At the time of her Woodstock visit, she was finishing up a nationwide book tour for her seventh novel.

“Well isn’t this the cutest book store ever?” Giffin exclaimed as she entered FoxTale, looking around at the indie bookstore’s cozy décor. “My mom is a retired librarian and she came here with her book group and told me I just had to do an event here.”

After working the crowd for a bit, she got down to business, introducing “The One and Only,” which tells the story of a woman from a small college town in Texas where residents live and die by football.

After an unexpected tragedy, the woman must decide if the life she has always envisioned for herself is really enough.

Giffin admitted that reactions have been strong to this latest novel – in part, she feels, because the central relationships are harder to predict than in her previous books.

“As an author,” Giffin said, “I’m fascinated by relationships, because that’s what makes us who we are. I am a daughter, mother, wife, friend – but it’s not always easy living out those roles. I like writing about those layers.”

Giffin then answered a few questions from her fans:

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Mandy Densmore, Colleen Hicks and Laura Gray, all from Alpharetta, wait to meet Emily Giffin.

of your first book, “Something Borrowed?”

A: I was. My camp warned me to go in with low expectations, saying the author always hates the movie, especially when it comes to romantic comedies. But later, one of the movie producers admitted that she, too, had been warned about working with authors – they are all psychos, etc.

[Laughs].

In reality, I was very involved, but tried to be very respectful of their process. I did let my true colors show a bit when the movie poster came out, though. I didn’t like it at all!

We are working now on the movie for “Something Blue,” and I’m writing this one.

The fans will be happy because the casting is all the same – yes, John Krasinski still plays Ethan.

Q: What is your writing process? Do you hammer out a little bit each day?

A: My ultimate deadline is always looming in my head. I publish a book every two years. It takes about 14 to 15 months to write it, then three to four months for

revisions; then there’s the machinery that goes into getting ready for a book tour.

My books all start with a premise, some little seed that gets planted in my mind. The characters follow, and I name them and create their world. I usually start with a general sense of a beginning, middle and end, but as the characters emerge and develop, things might change.

It’s like meeting a new friend. You aren’t quite sure at first how she will react in certain situations. As you get to know the characters, revelations come out and drive the plot.

I always say I will outline my next book properly, but I really can’t write that way.

I have three or four main ideas already for my next novel, and they could possibly merge together, but at the moment I’m focused on finishing this book tour. I go to Canada next week, then I’ll come home and do nothing for a while.

Just hang out with my kids and not worry about blowouts and makeup for another nine months. ■

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woman & wine

WOMAN & WINE Female business owners meet for noshing, networking

KATIE VANBRACKLE

G

ood conversation, gourmet nibbles and a glass of wine are always a winning combination, especially when those gathered around the table share a common interest.

On June 11, a group of local entrepreneurs gathered at Vino 100 in Alpharetta to meet like-minded souls. All were women, and all were small business owners, well versed in the triumphs and challenges of taking risks and following dreams.

“Women and Wine” was the brainchild of Mary Mayer, owner of Cheeses & Mary in Crabapple, who wanted to facilitate a networking opportunity where female business owners could educate and inspire one another.

For more information on Women and Wine, contact Mayer at cheesesandmary@gmail.com. ■

In the front row, from left, are Briana Carson (Crave Pie Studio, Duluth), Beverly Norris (The Farmhouse, Duluth), Maritza Pichon (MChocolat, Alpharetta), Suzanne Taylor (Scoop OTP) and David Mott (Vino 100, event host).

In back, from left, are Peggy Jones (Queen of Hearts Antiques and Interiors, Alpharetta), Ashley Towers (Eye Candy Art Studio, Duluth), Ashley Blencoe (Blencoe and Co. Photographic Arts, Milton), Stacey Anderson (Queen of Hearts Antiques and Interiors, Alpharetta), Melissa Dale (Hello Lovely, Milton), Mary Mayer (Cheeses & Mary, Milton), Michelle Knapp (Scoop OTP) and Regina Gulick (Milton Magazine, Milton). Unable to attend, but supplying treats for the evening was Gloria Amttei (Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta).

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Take a run on the

DARK SIDE The Walking Dead Escape,

Philips Arena, Atlanta

By JADE RODGERS jade@northfulton.com

O

ne could always go to the gym for a good workout, but where is the fun in that? On May 31, I discovered my new favorite method of exercise at Philips Arena in Atlanta: The Walking Dead Escape.

Many of you are familiar with “The Walking Dead,” a popular television program on AMC that stars some of my closest zombie friends.

My fellow zombie Americans, whether you’ve been bitten or not, people across the nation are infected with Zombie Mania.

For a zombie like myself, this is spectacular news. For too long, I’ve pursued citizens through the streets, only to be judged by my rotting appearance; too long, I’ve been feared for my hungry snarls.

But now, people are finally beginning to open their minds and accept the loving bite of Zombie Mania.

This movement culminated in The Walking Dead Escape when hundreds of citizens from all over the Southeast came to play at the massive obstacle course littered with bodies, blood and zombies. Naturally, such a morbid obstacle course cannot be categorized as typical exercise, but it makes for quite the adrenaline rush.

Upon arrival at The Walking Dead Escape, I was herded to makeup alongside my fellow zombies, bringing along my photographer Jonathan Copsey, who quickly became irritated

20 northsidewoman.com | northsidewoman.com| july1414 | july2014

with my attempts to chomp on his fingers.

It is not often that one dresses up to exercise, but we did just that. Participants from all walk[ers] of life arrived in endless combinations of fashion, from fatigues to formal wedding dress, giving detail and life to their undead characters. Several zombies wore contacts to intensify their eyes and give them a postmortem glare; others donned torn scrubs or street clothes, even exchanged stories of how they became contaminated.

The real fun began when the obstacle course opened. If I still had a pulse, my heart would have pounded once we were released to wreak havoc upon the survivors.

“People are running, driving and climbing through the obstacle course,” said David Isaacs, co-founder of the UFC and The Walking Dead Escape.

“It’s a full-on immersion experience.”

Women shrieked, men shouted and everyone ran as we gave stumbling, snarling chase through the different obstacles of the arena.

Some survivors were brave enough to video their journeys through our hunger games, though few of them caught my good side. Many had the gall to laugh as I growled and snapped, attempting to tear the flesh from their bones, but only some survivors truly made it out of the obstacle course alive.

Alas, my poor photographer was disposed of once he arrived at the Decontamination Zone; any survivors touched or “contaminated” by zombies were put down in order to prevent their transformation.

Despite this unhappy ending, I got my undead muscles moving in a fun, exciting and air-conditioned environment. It’s either exercise or decomposition, but either way, I’m going to fit into that summer bikini. ■

1

2

4 5

3

Take a run on the

ACTIONFIGHTER MEDIA

6

BRIGHT SIDE The Color Run,

Caleb. I placed his initials on the back of my white T-shirt and completed the race in his honor.

Some “Color Runners” participate as a celebration of their healthy living, while others participate for reasons unique to them, just as I did.

The Color Run brings the community together by celebrating their three values: health, happiness and individuality.

This is further supported through their social media slogan, “What are you #runningfor?”

The race is an un-timed, no winners, 3.1-mile event in which Color Runners can complete it at their own pace. It’s perfect for all fitness levels, ages and backgrounds.

Throughout the race, participants will begin to transform as “certified” color throwers douse them with paint at the four “Color Zones.” The paint used by the Color Run is not a liquid paint; it is glutenfree cornstarch powder. Each color zone represents a solid color. Once you reach the finish line, the four colors you visited along the way are tossed all at once to create a cloud of vivid color combinations.

The fun and celebrations continue after participants complete the race with a party equipped with music, dancing and massive color throws of your own.

While you may find everyone starting the race in white attire and end looking like a rainbow, the fun does not stop there. You will find many people in neon leggings, colorful tutus, creative team outfits, face paint, colorful wigs and much more!

So, what will you run for? For more information on the Color Run, visit the website at www.thecolorrun.com and join their VIP list to learn when they will be returning to Atlanta. ■

Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, Ga.

By ABBY BREAUX

abby@northfulton.com

T

7 JEFF STANTON

8

SHELBY NEELEY

here are two simple rules to the Color Run: 1) wear white at the starting line, and 2) finish covered in color!

Nicknamed, “The Happiest 5K on the Planet” for many reasons, the Color Run supports having the time of your life rather than running for time.

In addition to all the fun, the Color Run is a for-profit management company that loves the opportunity to partner with charities. Since their founding in 2012, they have raised donations for more than 80 local and national charities and have donated more than $3 million.

The Color Run now hosts more than 170 events in more than 30 countries. You can expect the Color Run to visit Atlanta each year on the first Saturday in April at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, Georgia.

When preparing for my first Color Run in 2013, I focused on training well in advance. After I completed the race, I came home to learn that my friend, Caleb Mills, had passed away earlier that day.

As the year went by, my friends discussed participating in the 2014 Color Run. Rather than putting my energy into training for a race, I decided to focus on turning something negative into a positive. This year, my Color Run was in dedication to

9 ZOMBIE PHOTOS BY: JONATHAN COPSEY

SHELBY NEELEY

1. Jade Rodgers, bottom, and fellow zombies reach out for BRAINS! 2. Varsity zombies. Whad’ya have?

3. Laughing runners enter Philips Arena.

4. Zombies lurk and lurch around every corner.

5. Part of the ‘Herd Highway’ obstacle course.

6. Color Runners are wearing white and prepared to be doused with paint.

7. From left Kat Golden and Abby Breaux finish The Color Run. 8. In memory of her friend, Abby Breaux wears Caleb Zachary Mills' initials on the back of her Color Run t-shirt.

9. Abby Breaux and David Byrd join the after race celebrations.

july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 21

ABBY BREAUX/STAFF

design finds

From left: Kathy and Kelle McConnell, celebrate their 10th anniversary with Tuscany Fine Furnishings along with William O'Connor, economic development manager for City of Milton; Samir Abdullahi, economic development manager for city of Alpharetta; Steve Stroud, executive director for Roswell Inc. and Courtney Barnardi, chief executive officer for Johns Creek Advantage.

Designing a uniquecommunity

By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON

T

he managers of community development from Johns Creek, Roswell, Alpharetta and Milton gathered recently at Tuscany Fine Furnishings to talk about business development for North Fulton.

In keeping with celebrating Tuscany’s 10th anniversary, owners Kelle and Kathy McDonnell wanted to celebrate their success, but also position themselves for the future.

“It’s exciting to see a store that’s been a part of the community for so long, make it through the tough times and come out a success,” said Steve Stroud, executive director of Roswell Inc, the economic development arm of the city of Roswell. “It says great things not only about the store but the commitment of the McConnell’s to the North Fulton community.”

Stroud was one of four community 22 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

development leaders invited to Tuscany Fine Furnishings to discuss economic and community development in North Fulton.

Courtney Bernardi, CEO of Johns Creek Advantage, attended the meeting along with Milton and Alpharetta Economic Development Managers, William O’Connor and Samir Abdullahi, respectively.

“We had some rough times,” Kelle McConnell said. “But we made a commitment to the community and worked hard to keep moving forward.”

Their efforts worked and the store, a fine furnishings and interior design center located at 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell , is going stronger than ever.

The shop is located in the Connection Holcomb Bridge, which Hawthorne Retail Partners took ownership of in 2011.

Hawthorne has been key to the renovation and redevelopment of the entire center that is nearly 30 years old,” McConnell said.

“They have beautified the center with a new face lift and the center landscaping has

Ultimately it’s about the people.

Alpharetta is a player in the office market so we work deliberately to attract those employees to live here instead of drive here from other cities every day.”

Samir Abdullahi, Economic development manager for Alpharetta never looked better in an effort to revitalize the area,” she said.

The Tuscany Fine Furnishings store offers a wide assortment of furniture and accessories for every room along with interior design services from professional designers. Kathy McConnell is a designer herself and makes the purchases for the

store “We realized with the downturn in the economy in 2004, people were staying home and their homes became even more important to them,” Kathy McConnell

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design finds ▼ DESIGN, Continued from Page 22 said. “So we directed our efforts at helping the community make their homes comfortable and a place for family and friends to gather.”

Through guerrilla marketing efforts and a commitment to their customer base, the couple pushed through the rough times and came out on top.

“We don’t want to sell a piece of furniture and then never see our customer again,” Kathy McConnell said. “Our goal is to establish relationships with our customers and help them design the perfect space, whether it’s one room or an entire house.”

“We don’t stick to just one or two companies,” she said. “I’m constantly looking for the perfect pieces and if that means one company has two pieces and another has five, then I’ll work with them.” She said they have dealers from all across the country and if something isn’t in the store, they can get it. “We work with our customers to make their rooms perfect for them,” she said.

Their commitment to their customer base is working: Tuscany Fine Furnishings has received the best furniture store in Roswell award for the past four years.

“We are certainly pleased with our success,” Kelle McConnell said, “especially during the tough economic times. Now we feel like we are well positioned for the next 10 years.”

“Retail follows rooftops,” William O’Connor, economic development manager for the City of Milton, said. “Businesses are much like parks, they’re an amenity and we all must work together to encourage businesses to the area.”

“We like to think of ourselves as a team, working together for the betterment of the North Fulton area,” Bernardi said. “Without one of the cities, the process is just not complete.”

The process, she said, is a collective effort to encourage businesses and Tuscany Fine Furnishings has many elegant pieces that have garnered them best furniture store residents to move to the North Fulton area. in Roswell award for the past four years.

“Each city has its niche market,” Stroud said. “For example, Roswell’s core industry is restaurants and retail.” Stroud said Roswell’s economic team works to for Alpharetta, said. “Alpharetta is a player in the office market so we work deliberately to target restaurants because the city attracts them. attract those employees to live here instead of drive here from other cities every day.”

“Our community expects Roswell to have good dining,” he said. “And that good He said about 90 percent of the city’s residents leave the city daily for jobs elsewhere. dining attracts customers from all over the area, which in turn, is good for the community.”

Conversely, of the 100,000 people in Alpharetta every day, 70 percent of them live Though each city has a niche, they all expressed an important element of community elsewhere. development: The people.

“Therefore it is our goal to provide a community and lifestyle beneficial not only to “Ultimately it’s about the people,” Samir Abdullahi, economic development manager the people who live here but the people who work here, too,” he said.

All said the trend in community growth is heading in the direction of living and shopping communities.

“The new development, Avalon, in Alpharetta is a perfect example of a live and shop community,” Stroud said. “The younger professionals as well as the empty-nesters are 970 North Point Drive looking to live in a community with a social lifestyle, without having to get in the car.”

Alpharetta • 770-712-3592 Each city representative said having a mix of people in different phases of their lives Inside Salon Lofts & behind Shane Company living and working in North Fulton is 7 Days a Week 10am-8pm a common goal.

“We’ve already got C-level Business/Economic executives and are working toward Developers in North Fulton offering an appealing environment to the younger crowd through the city amenities, housing options and Samir Abdullah, businesses,” Stroud said.

Economic Development The group said developing Manager for the City of North Fulton to appeal to both older Alpharetta and younger residents requires 678-297-6024 careful, detailed planning. sabdullahi@alpharetta.ga.us “We strive to create a lifestyle for www.alpharetta.ga.us both,” Abdullahi said. “For example, with amenities like the Verizon Courtney Bernardi, Amphitheater we have a place for all Johns Creek Advantage CEO ages to see performers of all types of 706-870-7334 music.” cbernardi@johnscreek All four cities are focusing on advantage.org bringing in more small businesses in www.JohnsCreekAdvantage.org order to keep residents from having to drive to Atlanta to shop.

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takefive

KE

TA

5 An Eveningof Theater as de i fi v e i r t h s no

de & t w o ips for men

Treat yourself to dinner and a show with five local productions of classic plays and musicals

“Oklahoma!”

When: July 10 – Aug. 3.

Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Who: Pie in the Sky Productions Story: Cowboy Curley and hired hand Jud vie for the love of Laurey in turn-of-the-century Oklahoma. Songs include “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” and “Surrey with the Fringe on Top.” Tickets: www. playhousecumming.com

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” When: July 10 – 12. Thursday, Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek High School, 5575 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek Who: The Johns Creek Players Story: In Disney’s tale as old as time, bookish Belle becomes the prisoner of a horrible beast only to discover a prince in disguise.

Tickets: www. johnscreekplayersonline.com

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” When: July 18 – Aug. 10. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy St., Alpharetta Who: ACT1 Theater Story: Joseph’s brothers, jealous of his coat of many colors, sell him as a slave to Egypt, where his ability to interpret dreams wins favor with the Pharaoh.

Tickets: www.act1theater.com

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” When: July 25 – Aug. 2. Friday, Saturday at 8 p.m., one Sunday matinee on July 27 at 3 p.m.

Where: The Dancing Goat Theatre, 10700 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek Who: Performing Arts North Story: Young lovers and amateur actors frolic with magical woodland creatures in Shakespeare’s popular comedy, only to learn that falling in love can make fools of us all.

Tickets: www. performingartsnorth.org

“Driving Miss Daisy” When: July 10 – 27. Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m.

Where: Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford Who: Gypsy Theatre Story: In the Deep South of 1948, 72-year-old, sharp-tongued Jewish widow Daisy Wertham is forced to rely on the services of Hoke, a dignified, unemployed black man. Despite their differences, the two grow closer to, and more dependent on, each other.

Tickets: www.buford communitycenter.com or 770-945-6762. ■

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herbeauty

By CYNTHIA MORRISON EIKE Visage Designs by Cynthia, LLC

T

he transformational power of the eyebrow is amazing. Think of iconic full brows like Audrey Hepburn or Brooke Shields, or the sexy arches of Marilyn Monroe or Jennifer Aniston.

Eyebrows convey mood and emotion and frame the more important facial feature – your eyes. Here are a few simple tricks to create your perfect brow.

First, assess your brow and “connect the dots.”

Brow guru Anastasia of Beverly Hills created the Golden Ratio to impart balance, proportion and beautifully defined brows for any face. To measure the starting and ending points of the brow, simply take a brow pencil (Clinique’s Instant Lift for Brows, $15, comes with a handy brow highlighter on the other end) and align it vertically from the middle of the nostril to the brow bone and make a dot. This is the starting point of your brow. Then take the pencil and align it from the tip of your nose through the center of the iris and onto the brow bone and place another dot. This is the highest point of your brow arch.

Finally, hold the pencil from the

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corner of your nostril to the outside corner of the eye and onto the brow bone for your final dot. This is where your brow should end.

Using the Audrey Hepburn pencil, lightly connect the dots on the underside of the brow for the shape. The underside of the brow should be the most defined.

Fill in with a brow or eye shadow and brush for a gentle fullness, brush through brow hairs with a clean toothbrush or old mascara wand and set with a brow gel. Clear gel is best for darker hair. Use a tinted brow gel for lighter or highlighted hair that is slightly lighter than your natural base color. Tinted brow gels also cover gray brow hairs like temporary hair mascara. Bobbi Brown Tinted Brow Gel ($22) comes in several shades for all hair colors.

The final step is to create a sharp, clean edge to the brow. Using a shade lighter than your skin tone and the lightest shade on your eyes, brush or draw a line just underneath the newly created brow and gently blend. Anastasia’s Brow Duality Pencil ($23) has a matte end for day and a pearly end for night. Clean up the upper half by lightly running a Q-tip just along the edge of the brow for a clean, defined and perfectly shaped brow. ■

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DEVON MORGAN, PHOTOSYNTHESIS ATLANTA

herhealth

Ally Fitzgerald with daughters Jaymee, left, and Taylor.

Water workout is a

win-win

Get some exercise while the kids enjoy pool time

By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON Carolyn@northfulton.com

S

o we’re already into bikini season, but how many of us have a little catching up to do? (Raising my hand!) It’s not easy to keep a consistent workout schedule with the kids home, but guess what? It’s possible.

How? Take the kids to the pool and exercise while they play.

Warm water exercising improves circulation by expanding blood vessels, thus improving blood flow. The better the

blood flows, the better your body functions.

Warm water also acts as resistance, and like a weight, facilitates muscle growth. The benefit however, is that the water is less stressful on joints and bones and reduces the risk of injury.

Water exercising also improves balance, endurance and agility but the best part about it is that it burns fat faster than many other workouts.

Here is a quick water routine to try the next time you hit the pool with the kids. So grab a noodle, and give these exercises a try!

Warm up first – Swim four laps the length of the pool at a casual speed. Don’t push too hard unless you’re a frequent swimmer as heart rates rise quickly in water.

Water jogging – Jog the length of the pool for one- to three-minute intervals. Lean into the water, keeping your back straight and simulate your normal jogging gait.

Water jogging can burn up to three times the amount of land jogging, but is also tiring, so

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keep the intervals short.

Next, add a noodle plank – Stand in the water and hold the noodle vertically with both hands. Push straight down and lean forward until you’re at an even incline. Try to hold that pose for at least a minute. Trust me, it’s harder than it seems. Oh, keep your head out of the water, too. A minute is a long time to hold your breath!

Now, jog that water.

Then, balance on the noodle – With one knee up, put the noodle under that foot and keep the noodle balanced for a minute.

Alternate legs, and do it three times for each leg. The sides of the noodle will rise, making a U shape. Do your best not to hold the sides and keep pushing down on the noodle.

You’ll work your legs and your core, all while improving balance.

Jog that water again.

Butterfly simulation – For a total upper body exercise, latch the tops of your feet to the

deck, bending your knees against the pool’s side. Lock your core and extend your arms above your head, then pull your hands toward you in a circular motion, elbows higher than your hands. Push the water back quickly and repeat for a full minute.

Start the circuit over and repeat three times, adding a cool down at the end.

You can always make it a family event and challenge the kids to a competition. Who can balance the noodle the longest? ■

Carolyn has been a fitness and nutrition enthusiast for over 15 years and holds certifications from nationally recognized organizations.

Featuring state-of-the-art bowling; multi-level laser tag; gravity ropes adventure course; over 100 interactive, virtual and video games; regulation size billiard tables; full service bars; quality dining experiences and free Wi-Fi access.

mainevent.com

Main Event Alpharetta 10700 Davis Dr. • Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-521-9100 july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 31

herstyle

Trendy Totes

How to carry your stuff in style

By LORI WYNNE

For a classic look

A

s women, we wear a lot of different hats.

Mom on the go, businesswoman, adventure Barbie. What are the trendy totes to go with each side of you? Totes for resort poolside that don’t scream, “I usually fill this thing with five wet beach towels, swim diapers and six pairs of swim goggles.”

Totes for shopping with the ladies in resort towns.

Feminine but all-business totes to carry your laptop and paraphernalia when giving a business presentation.

Having the appropriate totes for the different aspects of your life doesn’t have to be expensive.

Below I have listed designer totes and budgetconscious totes that fill the same need.

Poolside at the resort: Leave the rip-stop nylon bag at home with the kids. Choose a crushable straw bag that is small enough to fit in the bottom of your suitcase, but big enough for one beach towel, a bottle of water and a book.

My signature tip for poolside: wear your high heeled sandals to the resort pool. You will feel like a celebrity! Those other tourists will never see you again, so enjoy strutting your stuff like a runway model.

Tory Burch Soft Straw Multi Tote, $325 – Toryburch.com

Sun N Sand Striped Crochet Straw Tote, $40 – Kohls.com

For an ethnic/boho look:

Sun N Sand Beaded Straw Tote, $45 – Kohls.com

Sensi Studio Maxi Patterned Toquilla Straw Tote, $235 – Net-a-porter.com

Customized Healthcare With Old-Fashioned Service.

“With healthcare becoming less personal and more complex you deserve more than the standard level of care.”

Imagine...

Dr. Shelley Bianco D.O.

• Having a personal and meaningful connection with your doctor • Having a doctor that has the time to listen • Having a doctor you can call at a moments notice– any time, any day • Making a same day appointment that starts on time • Unhurried office visits 12315 Crabapple Road, Suite 108 • Alpharetta GA 30004 (in the Silos Plaza next to Alpine Bakery & Atlanta Fitness) 32 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

Dr. Michael Bianco D.O.

BIANCO PRIMARY CARE

We are accepting new patients. Call us today to see how personal healthcare can be.

Phone: 678-254-2333 www.BiancoPrimaryCare.com

Shopping totes:

General, Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

A flexible, zippered bag in a metallic or animal print neutral will go with any resort shopping outfit. A good shopping tote will fold nicely into the bottom of your suitcase. A lightweight unstructured bag can hold your wallet, water bottle and the many touristy treasures you may find. This leaves your hands free for more shopping.

H&M Shopper, $25 – HM.com

770-212-3788 www.JBDentalCare.com

Business totes: For those of us who seem to never find ourselves at the resort but would like to feel summery, I suggest a light colored or even white structured laptop bag.

Choose an embossed leather bag for summer.

A structured bag is very business. The light color says feminine and stylish.

Vanessa Bruno Les Cabas Canvas and Sequin Animal Print Medium Tote, $258 – Forzieri.com

11925 Jones Bridge Rd. • Alpharetta

N E W PAT I E N T E X A M

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Includes exam, x-rays & oral cancer screening.

A $275 value!

Includes custom trays and 6 month supply of whitening gel when you come in for your regular hygiene appointment. *New patients require exam and x-ray.

3999

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Some restrictions may apply. Offers cannot be combined. Pricing valid until 7-31-14. Call for details*

Reptile Embossed Work Tote, $75 – dailylook.com

Giorgio Fedon 1919 City-1 Croco Stamped Leather Laptop Briefcase, $680 – forzieri.com

Ways to manage your various totes: Mundi File Master Wallet, $25 – jcpenney.com

Colorful wallets are easy to find in your tote. Choose one in a summery vibrant color like hot pink.

Saint Laurent Classic Large Letters Saint Laurent Flap Wallet in Neon Pink Grain De Poudre Textured Leather, $495 – ysl.com

Another option is to carry a wristlet/ wallet in your tote to easily transition to nightlife activities or impromptu visits to historic sites. Most of them will not allow oversized bags or backpacks.

Dr. Leo, Dr. Malikov, Dr. Nasseh, and the entire Jones Bridge Dental Care team are ready to welcome you to our office, where you’ll be treated like family.

Fossil Sydney Zip Phone Wallet, $45 – amazon.com

Gerard Darel Divine Purse Organizer, $189 – forzieri.com

Last tip: If possible, I always recommend a zippered or flap top. You are less likely to spill the contents of your tote on the tourist bus floor, under the airline seat in front of you or under your pool deck chair.

See you at the resort! You will recognize me by my high heels at the pool.

What sets us apart…

We know that dental visits can be stressful. At Jones Bridge Dental Care, our goal is to remove that anxiety, and provide you with a first class experience, so that you can relax during your dental appointment.

• 30 + years experience, thousands of satisfied patients • Free second opinion • Free implant, sedation & Invisalign consultations • Extended hours, including SATURDAYS and online scheduling • Free nitrous oxide, sedation available at all levels • Named one of America’s Top Dentists 7 years in a row

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Thursday, July 24th at 6:30pm Dr. Leo Yelizarov

As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharetta-based Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best.

Contact her at fashionwithflair.com.

• Diplomate, International Congress of Oral Implantologists • Diplomate, American Dental Implant Association • America’s Top Dentist, 7 Years in a row • Best-selling author, “Dare to Succeed”

• Complimentary implant consultation • FREE sedation or 3D scan for those who book an appointment during the seminar • Tour our state-of-the-art facility

Dinner is included – REGISTER NOW

www.jbdentalcare.com | 770.212.3788 july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 33

herhealth

Meeting the gynecologic needs of older women

By DEBBIE KEEL

North Fulton Hospital CEO About 10 years ago, I heard a speaker at a conference of health care professionals refer to the baby boomer generation’s impact on hospitals as “a herd of elephants about to run through the zoo.”

While I don’t like being referred to as an elephant (did I really eat that chocolate ice cream last night?), I am right at the end of that herd, and the speaker was correct. This year, 64 percent of the female population in the United States will be women in their non-reproductive years.

North Fulton is no exception: the biggest female growth in the area is in women over 50.

As we try to serve this community’s needs, we have procured the services of two outstanding physicians, most of whose

patients will be in that group.

First, meet Dr. Curt Misko. Dr. Misko specializes in gynecologic urology and focuses his practice on improving women’s pelvic health. This includes hysterectomies and other pelvic surgeries, bladder health, which encompasses irritation, leaks and overactive bladder, and pelvic reconstructive surgeries like vaginal rejuvenation.

Next, we are fortunate to have another shining young star in gynecological services now serving our patients, Dr. Margaret Ellison. Dr. Ellison is a gynecologic oncologist, specializing in gynecologic cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly non-invasive da Vinci robotic surgery.

As most everyone knows, we already have many other excellent physicians here caring for problems, illnesses and diseases

commonly associated with women over 50.

The addition of Dr. Misko and Dr. Ellison to that group, and continuation of our well-established women’s services like our Breast Center, the only Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence in Atlanta, North Fulton Hospital is well positioned to greet the baby boomer women.

I’d prefer, however, to think of us less as elephants and more like a beautiful swarm of birds looking for a place to choose to land. I think NFH is that place

for all your health care needs.

One more thing, I’d like to shout out a big thanks to all of our veterans this Independence Day (both Dr. Misko and Dr. Ellison are among them) for their service to our country.

Debbie Keel ►

Woman2Woman professional

Physician • Attorney • CPA • Designer • Financial Planner • Trainer • & More

CONSULTANT: Gail C. Goldberg, EdS Gail Goldberg is the founder of “Biscuit’s Books: Early Literacy Begins at Home”.

Please donate new or used pre-school level books so Gail and Biscuit can get them to children in need.

Drop off points: Amana Acedemy, (Alpharetta), Atlanta Metropolitan Publishers, (Roswell), International Pre-School, (Atlanta), Jeweler On The Square, (Marietta), Roswell Cultural Arts Center, (Roswell) and Dea Salon (Roswell). Biscuit is a Therapy Dog who goes to schools with the “Tail Waggin’ Reading” program through Therapy Dogs International.

Contact Gail for details on therapy visits and book donation. gigiconsulting@aol.com • www.tdi-dog.org www.gailgoldbergbook.com • 404-219-0529

CERTIFIED REFLEXOLOGIST: Nancy Loucks RELAX…REFRESH …RESTORE… balance to body, mind and spirit!

Allow me to assist you in being healthy naturally! Stress, foot pain and neuropathy…these symptoms and more CAN BE alleviated through reflexology. Receive care from an EXPERT!

• 8 years as a certified reflexologist • 8 years experience with certified pedorthists • 7 years experience in MATERNITY reflexology Angels at Your Feet • By appointment ONLY 770-634-0353 • www.angelsatyourfeet.com

ADVERTISING SALES: Becky Nelson

SKIN CARE SPECIALIST: Caroline Brown

PHOTOGRAPHER: Abby Breaux

Becky Nelson is excited to sell advertising again to the Alphareta & Roswell area for Appen Media Group! Having owned 425 Market Place Antiques, she knows what a small to medium-size business owner is looking for… Exposure, Traffic, easy answers and budget!

With daughters at Crabapple and Roswell North, Becky tries to cross-pollinate her Appen customers with not only her own shopping needs but also those she talks too! Need to advertise?

Call her: 404-406-6121

Proper skin care products combined with professional skin care treatments are the perfect ways to achieve great looking skin. I use only the most innovative skin care products, providing advanced treatments in a private and relaxing environment. Let me help you look your BEST! •16 years experience working as a licensed esthetician • Solo practitioner offering customized skin care services • All skin types! Specializing in anti-aging treatments Renew Skin Care Studio 1575 Old Alabama Rd, Ste 201, Studio 118, Roswell, GA 404-512-0543 • caroline_brown@bellsouth.net www.renewskincarestudio.net

Abby is the owner and photographer of Abby Breaux Photography based out of Cumming. She graduated from the University of North Georgia in December 2012 with a bachelors degree in Art Marketing with a concentration in Photography. While attending college she took a year to study abroad at the University of Plymouth, one of the top three photography schools in England. Abby’s photography has a photojournalist style which carries through with her portraiture and wedding techniques. She will capture you and your loved ones as simply you.

Abby Breaux Photography info@abbybreaux.com • www.abbybreaux.com

319 North Main Street • Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-442-3278 ext.103 • becky@northfulton.com 34 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

herstyle

&

SPONSORED SECTION

Design

N

Interiors

orth Atlanta is a hub for trendy-yet-refined interior decor. With plenty of brick and mortar stores to choose from, the difficult part is picking which styles best reflect your personality and taste. Below, experts offer their views on the staples and fads.

Knowledge is Key

W

e believe that an experienced design team can make all the difference in the world for any home furnishings project. Teamwork within the Tuscany staff as well as our partner vendors is our key to successful installations for you. When we opened Tuscany Fine Furnishings 10 years ago, we understood that there were more than 50 top drawer furniture manufacturers and 50+ second tier & specialty suppliers. We knew that banking the product knowledge of this vast variety of supplier collections and price points would be key to providing our customers with interior design services at the highest level.

That’s why we designed our website homepage as a platform for both the novice and the knowledgeable. With over 100 supplier links to their latest furniture collections, customers can educate themselves online before ever stepping foot into our store.

Of course, our design team was built to jump start any project by directing, navigating and targeting each customer requirement and/or budget. ■ Kathy McConnell is an Interior Designer and Owner of the full service design center, Tuscany Fine Furnishings 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. in Roswell, tuscanyfinefurnishings.com, 770-993-0640 open Mon-Sat 10-6 p.m. Sun. 1-5 p.m.

Guess what’s “trending up?” ...SECTIONALS!

I Before

After

Countertop Dilemma?

N

ew countertops are a big investment for any homeowner, but there are great alternatives to the ever popular granite. Quartz often referred to as “man-made or engineered stone” offers consistency in pattern versus granite in which each piece has a unique design. Quartz also contains the beauty of marble with subtle movement but the advantage of stain and scratch resistance. Stainless steel and zinc offer functionality for the serious cook; with a high food safety rate and very low maintenance requirements. Butcher block offers a timeless option.

Homeowners don’t have to stick with one material, mixing products in a kitchen adds appeal and creates focal points. Alternatives allow you to enhance the uniqueness and beauty of your kitchen and reduce maintenance at the same time. ■ Owner, SnappyKitchens.com.

Construction Project Manager and designer.

Showroom: 2612 Holcomb Bridge Rd Ste 110, Alpharetta, 30022. Showroom Number: 470-268-7787

n the 1990s, it was the decade of a “sofa and a matching loveseat.” In the 2000s, 2 facing sofas were all the rage.

Now, in the decade of the “teens,” it is “all-about-the-sectional.” Fabric sectionals. Leather sectionals. Both are featured in a BIG WAY from all the major furniture manufacturers.

Sometimes sectionals are “equilateral,” meaning the left side facing is the same distance as the right side facing. Back in “the old days......pre-1998,” you had to buy 3 pieces: a left side, a corner unit,.....usually curved, and a right side. NOW, the manufacturers are offering 2- piece sectionals (a left side facing loveseat attached to a right side facing corner unit, ...for instance) saving the customer hundreds of dollars by not-having-to-buy 3 separate pieces of furniture.

Many sectionals are longer on one side,.....sometimes with a CHAISE that is ideal for families with children. Most manufacturers offer more than 10-12 pieces that can be custom-configured to the clients’ room. Small, medium, or quite-large, the Furniture Industry offers LOTS ‘O CHOICES for today’s comfort-driven customer! ■

Mark Sunderland, Allied Member ASID Interior Designer for: Home Fashion Interiors 793 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 404-274-5091 Portfolio: www.msunderland.com july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 35

woman's best friend

Pet of the Month

S

elena is a beautiful young girl with striking markings and a personality bigger than she is. She is currently being fostered in a home with a mix of bigger and smaller dogs, as well as young children, and has become very socialized. Selena is an American Bulldog/ Lab mix and is loyal, loving, good with kids, smart and active. She is 10 months old so still quite young, but old enough to learn all her basic training skills. She loves people, works hard to please her “parents” and loves nothing more than to chase a tennis ball around the yard. Being around small kids and other dogs has laid the best foundation for her to become a perfect family addition. To inquire about Selena, visit www.angelsrescue.org, or email adopt@ angelsrescue.org. ■

ME ADOPT

Winner

Best Audiologist

Ask the vet

Pampered pooches stroll in style Q

What’s the scoop on doggie strollers?

A

Who would have thought that we would be pushing strollers with pets for passengers or

using Baby Bjorn carriers for dogs? Yes it’s true, strollers and carriers are no longer exclusive for human babies, and they are here to stay. They are becoming very popular in the pet world. These new modes of transportation for our beloved pets can be a very safe and fun way to transport our pets.

Pet strollers are not meant for large dogs, but rather, for smaller dogs that are 30 pounds or less. We get to take them with us as we run our errands or go for walks. To some, this may seem somewhat counterproductive, as dogs love to sniff every blade of grass and every

Dr. Deborah Woodward Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth

2013

Dr. Beatriz Segarra is the owner and veterinarian at the Village Animal Hospital on Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek. www.thevillage animalhospital.com

Dr. Deborah Woodward Doctor of Audiology The Johns Creek Audiology & Hearing Aid Center provides the most innovative treatment options and technology available today to improve hearing. On-site audiology services are provided by a staff who is medically trained to assess your current hearing profile. Call Today and schedule your visit to update your hearing sensitivity and we can explore the options together. We can accommodate every budget – ASK US HOW!

4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B, Johns Creek • 770-814-1260

www.JohnsCreekAudiology.com All major insurance plans accepted.

36 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

structure that may be encountered on the way. Strollers are not meant to take the place of walks, as exercising is very important for all pets.

Exercise is necessary to maintain a healthy weight. Dogs not only enjoy walks because they get to be out in the fresh air, but many of them thoroughly enjoy the social aspect of it, greeting humans and other dogs. Dogs that are confined to a stroller miss out on these activities, but they can still enjoy the world from the safety of their stroller or carrier. Dogs that are more suited for these modes of transportation are probably timid dogs, or dogs who prefer not to interact with other dogs. They would rather be riding in a stroller than walking on a leash.

It is important to remember that above everything, safety first. If your pet does not seem to enjoy a stroller or seems nervous when carried in a carrier, it is best to stick with the good old traditional leash walk. ■

PetZip Urban Vogue Dog Stroller, $124.95. doggie-diva.com

herride

The mystique of car repair S

tudies show that most women would rather spend their time at the dentist getting a root canal than taking their car in for service – we have the fear that “women are taken advantage of.”

Remember, women make up well over 60 percent of the automotive repair customer base; your loyalty is needed and should be earned.

Here are some tips when you walk in with your keys: Become familiar with your owner’s manual. There is a wealth of information in there to help you feel empowered before your visit. Some information includes: your car’s recommended tire pressure, how often you should have routine maintenance and what that light on your dash really means.

When you have a problem with your car, detailed information is critical. Make notes to yourself about exactly what is happening and when. Your service person should be ready with some very specific questions. You have a noise? They will ask you questions such as: does it happen all the time? Only sometimes? Where is the noise coming from? How often do you hear it? When turning one direction, at a certain speed, or just when the car is hot or first started? The more accurate information you can give your technician, the quicker and more precisely they will be able to identify the problem and repair your vehicle.

For example, you have a brake noise. Do you need new rotors or new pads? The only way to know for sure is to have your brakes inspected. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. What is a rotor? What are brake pads? Can you show me? A good service person should want to explain exactly what the repair is for, how it works, show you your problem and show you the solution on your car or on a diagram. Remember, we may not be automotive experts, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have the repair explained

until we feel comfortable and educated about the money we’re going to spend.

Your car is typically your second largest investment, and repair and maintenance decisions should not be taken lightly. A top-notch service manager may ask you other questions, such as; how long do you plan to keep the car, how the car is used, how many miles do you drive and so on. This will allow the service manager to tailor the recommendations to you and your car.

In Wood & Fullerton stores, an educated customer is a happy customer. Education is part of our job.

“Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

– Eleanor Roosevelt ■ Doloris Rodden, Owner of Wood & Fullerton woodfullerton.com

Women’s Choice for Tires and Auto Service Wood & Fullerton Goodyear Tire and Auto Service Centers have been dedicated to providing the best vehicle and tire service at competitive prices since 1975.

Wood & Fullerton offers a choice from Goodyear, Dunlop, Kelly, Michelin, Hankook, and other fine tires using name brand service parts, and installation by ASE Certified Technicians.

“At Wood & Fullerton Goodyear, we care about people who care for their cars!”

WOMEN’S CHOICE AWARD® THE VOICE OF WOMEN

Alpharetta 11910 GA Hwy 9-Alpharetta Hwy Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-751-0222 Alpharetta Midway 5855 Gateway Dr Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-754-0905 Canton Canton Marketplace 2080 Cumming Hwy 20 East Canton, GA 30115 770-704-1717 Duluth Duluth Mall Corners 3622 Satellite Blvd Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-8585 Dunwoody Dunwoody 1333 Dunwoody Village Pkwy Dunwoody, GA 30338 770-396-1551

Norcross Spalding Corners 4041 Holcomb Bridge Rd Norcross, GA 30092 770-246-0012 Roswell Roswell Village 593 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 770-992-3636 Roswell Holcomb Woods Center 1574 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 770-640-7337 Woodstock Woodstock 2465 Towne Lake Pkwy Woodstock, GA 30189 770-928-5959

Johns Creek Alpharetta/Johns Creek 10945 Jones Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 770-740-8800

Vacation Care Coupon

Car Care Package $34.99

Assure Your Car will be ready when you are…

On-line Services:

Book an appt. • Order tires • Find coupons and services www.WoodFullerton.com

• Lube, new filter and up to 5 qts. Synthetic Blend 5W30 Oil • Complete Tire Rotation • Check Tread Depth on all 4 tires adjust pressure to manufacturer specs • Inspect Battery Terminals and Connections • Top off all Fluids under Hood • Brake Inspection • Inspect all belts and hoses for Cracks and proper tension Additional charge for canister oil filters & extra quarts. Most vehicles. No other discounts apply. Vehicles requiring special oil filters may be extra. Shop supply fee and $2 used fluid disposal fee will apply. Offer ends: 8/18/2014.

july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 37

todo

JULY including steam engines, antique tractors, cars and floats. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road. www.cummingfair.net

3

Patriotic Celebration at Cumming Fairgrounds July 3 – 4. Bring your lawn blanket to the Cumming Fairgrounds on July 3 at 6 p.m. for a dance contest, food vendors and children’s activities. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Free admission and parking. On July 4, enjoy the famous Steam Engine Parade at 10 a.m. on the downtown square

5

Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Each Saturday through summer. Browse a large selection of fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, mushrooms, breads, pastries, cheese, grass-fed meats, eggs, salads, drinks, jams, jellies, cookies, artisan bath products and more. A typical Saturday includes live music, miniworkshops, children’s programs and chef demonstrations. A bistro area allows shoppers to relax, eat and enjoy. 38 Hill Street, Roswell (behind Roswell City Hall). www.roswellfam.com Roswell Riverside Sounds Concert Series 7 – 9 p.m. The annual Roswell Riverside Sounds concert series is back with North Carolina’s “BIG Something Band,” featuring elements of pop, rock and jazz.

Food trucks will be on hand from 6 – 9 p.m. and the Kona Ice truck will also be on location. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellriversidesounds.com

4

Crabapple Fourth of July Parade 10 - 11 a.m. Everyone is invited to decorate their bikes, wagons and pets for a stroll through downtown Crabapple during the 4th Annual 4th of July Parade sponsored by the Crabapple Community Association. The parade route begins at the corner of McFarlin Lane and Parkstead Lane and ends behind Olde Blind Dog. Register online at www.facebook.com/ CrabappleCommunityAssociation

High School, 5575 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek.

11

“Oklahoma!” at Cumming Playhouse 8 p.m. Shows continue through August 3. Sing along to “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning” and other classic songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical “Oklahoma!” Tickets may be purchased online at www. playhousecumming.com. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street, Cumming.

12

Johns Creek Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Each Saturday through Sept. 6, rain or shine.

Meet local farmers and shop for organic and/or sustainable foods and produce.

Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road.

To learn more or to sign up for the weekly newsletter, visit www.johnscreekga.gov

10

Food Truck Alley in Alpharetta 5 to 9 p.m. Every Thursday.

Feast on the street every Thursday evening with a variety of six to eight rotating food trucks and live music each week. Old Roswell Street (behind SmokeJack) in downtown Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com “Beauty & the Beast” in Johns Creek 7 p.m. More shows: July 11 at 7 p.m., July 12 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Johns Creek Players present Disney’s “Beauty & the Beast,” telling the story of bookish Belle who befriends a horrible beast only to discover a Prince in disguise. $20 reserved tickets are available online at www.johnscreekplayersonline.com. $17 adult tickets and $14 student/senior general admission tickets are available through any cast member. Johns Creek

38 | northsidewoman.com | july2014

Fireworks and Festivities at Wills Park 5:30 – 10 p.m.

Alpharetta celebrates the 4th of July with a Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem at 5:30 p.m., followed by a City Band concert from 6:15 – 7 p.m., Bueller’s Day Off” will be shown at dusk, around 9 p.m. Friendship Park, 12785 Birmingham Highway. www.cityofmilton.ga.us

17

Aliive After Five in Roswell 5 to 9 p.m. Come to the best street party in metro Atlanta for live music, outside vendors and extended retail hours, face painting, free trolley and more.

Held the third Thursday each month, April through October. Canton Street, downtown Roswell. www.aliveafterfiveroswell.com

18

6

Caffeine & Octane Car Show 8 – 11 a.m. Get your engines going early at this monthly car show displaying vehicles both new and old, foreign and domestic, bone stock and wildly modified.

Free to the public. 12600 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. www.caffeineandoctane.com

Steam Engine Parade in Cumming 10 a.m. Enjoy the famous Steam Engine Parade on Cumming’s downtown square, including steam engines, antique tractors, cars and floats. www.cummingfair.net

Alpharetta Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each Saturday through mid-October. Browse homegrown fruits and vegetables from local farms as well as all-natural meats, fresh flowers and plants, desserts, raw honey, homemade soaps, sauces and jellies. Downtown Alpharetta, intersection of North Main Street and Milton Avenue.

“Ferris Bueller” and Food Trucks in Milton 7 p.m. The city of Milton presents the second event in their Family, Fun, Flicks and Food Trucks summer series at Friendship Park in Crabapple. Food trucks, including Happy Belly, Tex’s Tacos and Viet Nomi, will be on hand for food beginning at 7 p.m., and the movie, “Ferris

Ticket to Ride Benefit Horse Show 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Through July 20. Over 170 horses will compete in this Georgia Hunter Jumper Association and Southern Hunter Jumper of Georgia rated show which raises funds for domestic abuse shelters in Hall, Forsyth, Dawson and Lumpkin Counties. The event features live music, vendors, a silent auction, carnival for children, 50/50 raffle and more. Wills Park Equestrian Center, 1925 Wills Road, Alpharetta.

“Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in Alpharetta 8 p.m. Shows continue through August 10.

ACT1 Theater presents the musical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors from the Bible’s Book of Genesis, brought to the Broadway stage by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Adult, child and senior tickets may be purchased online at www.act1theater.com or by phone, 770-663-8989. A matinee lunch and show special is offered for every Sunday show, in conjunction with Mittie’s Tea Room.

Shows held in the theater of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta.

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Story SLAM in Roswell 6:30 – 9 p.m. Ten lucky storytellers receive the opportunity to dazzle the audience with their truths in five minutes or less. Each event in the series has a theme and a bar. $10 at the door. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950

and the band Serious Business from 7:15 – 9:15 p.m. A spectacular fireworks display begins at dusk, no matter the weather. Children’s activities will include inflatables, face painting and more. Cashonly food vendors will be on-site. Wills Park, 1825 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com Roswell’s Fireworks Extravaganza 9:30 p.m. Roswell’s Annual July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza has been moved to Sweet Apple Elementary School, 12025 Etris Road, due to renovations at Roswell High School. Fireworks will begin when the skies get dark, around 9:30 p.m. www.roswellgov.com

Forrest Street, Roswell. www.roswellcac.com

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American Idol Live! in Alpharetta 8 p.m. American Idol Live! gives fans the unique opportunity to be up close and personal with Season 13 finalists C.J. Harris, Jena Irene, Caleb Johnson, Jessica Meuse, M.K. Nobilette, Alex Preston, Dexter Roberts, Majesty Rose, Malaya Watson and Sam Woolf. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. www.vzwamp.com

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“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at Dancing Goat Theatre 8 p.m. The Dancing Goat Theatre in Johns Creek presents Shakespeare’s popular, fanciful tale of a group of young lovers and amateur actors, and their adventures with magical woodland creatures. As the mischievous Puck knows, falling in love can make fools of us all. Shows on July 25, 26 at 8 p.m., July 27 at 3 p.m., and Aug. 1, 2 at 8 p.m. Buy tickets online at performingartsnorth.org.

Dancing Goat Theatre, 10700 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. www.performingartsnorth.org The Avett Brothers in Alpharetta 8 p.m. Their songs are honest: just chords with real voices singing real melodies.

But, the heart and energy with which they are sung is really why people are talking about the Avett Brothers, who will perform two nights in Alpharetta, on July 25 with Emmylou Harris and on July 26 with Gov’t Mule. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. www.vzwamp.com

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A Celebration of the music of Andrea Bocelli 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. The music of celebrated opera/pop star Andrea Bocelli is performed under the stars by opera tenor Dr. Adam Kirkpatrick. $24. The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. http://thevelvetnote.com

july2014 | northsidewoman.com | 39

A SMALL INCISION. A BIG RESULT. An incision made by the da Vinci robotic surgical system is slightly larger than a nickel!

It’s the little things that make a dierence.

Using the da Vinci Surgical System, our team can operate through a single incision in your belly button - performing procedures with an even greater level of accuracy and precision. The result for patients is often less pain and quicker recovery times. Ask your doctor if Single Site Surgery is right for you, or visit NorthFultonSurgery.com to learn more!

Advancing Surgery. Restoring Lives.

Visit NorthFultonSurgery.com to learn more about the da Vinci Surgical System.

40 | northsidewoman.com | july2014