Northside Woman, August 2019

NSW

AUGUST 2019

NORTHSIDE WOMAN Covering North Fulton and South Forsyth

Head of the class Local educators teach outside of the box

Summer’s over?

Ease back into school with family field trips

Cultivating kindness Little Helpers program guides youth in helping others

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COMMUNITY WOMEN’S CANCER PROGRAM

More women trust Northside Hospital Cancer Institute for their cancer care than any other program in the state. As Georgia’s leader for women’s cancer care, we’re proud to have the #1 community breast and gynecologic cancer programs in the entire nation.

Learn more at builttobeatcancer.com

4 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

NORTHSIDE WOMAN

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Pacey suzanne@northsidewoman.com EDITOR Keith Still COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Abby Byrd CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carson Cook, Julia Grochowski, Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi, Lori Wynne, Charmaine Jackson, Allison Nye, Abra Lee, Tracy Harkness, Elaine Wilco, MA, LPC, Dr. Joanne Roesner, DVM, DABVP, Steve Hudson, Kate Tunison, Carolyn Kimbro, Kimberly Tyson

{ INSIDE }

AUGUST FEATURES { 8 } HER STYLE Re-enter the workforce with a wardrobe that fits today’s casual offices. { 12 } GOOD BOOKS Want to get published?

Atlanta Writers Club offers these tips. { 15 } WOMEN IN BUSINESS Roswell businesswoman Sarah Beeson launches campaign for Georgia Senate.

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Mike Dorman mike@appenmediagroup.com

{ 23 } HER BEAUTY Bio-identical hormones can help ease symptoms related to menopause.

SALES EXECUTIVES

{ 24 } HER GUIDE Get out of town before school takes over your family’s schedule.

Paul Flowers, Steve Neese, June Meltzer, Kelly Pierce, Kimberly Tyson PRODUCTION Suzanne Pacey, David Brown GENERAL MANAGER Hans Appen hans@appenmediagroup.com ACCOUNTANT Lisa McKemey

CONTACT 770.442.3278 770.475.1216 (fax) 319 North Main Street Alpharetta, Ga. 30009 facebook.com/ northsidewoman twitter.com/ nsidewoman

NORTHSIDEWOMAN.COM Northside Woman is published monthly & distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. © 2018 Appen Media Group. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.

ABBY BYRD PHOTOGRAPHY

inside

{ 28 } ASK THE VET Classroom pets can boost children’s social and academic skills.

NEW! ord rossw C y l h t n o M e 32 g a p , e l z z Pu

IN EVERY ISSUE

{ 10 } SHE GIVES BACK { 14 } HER GARDEN { 17-22 } HER HOME { 25, 27 } HER VIEW { 26 } SHE's SEXY { 29 } HER MONEY { 30 } OUTDOOR WOMAN { 32 } CROSSWORD PUZZLE { 33-39 } HER HEALTH { 40 } CALENDAR { 42 } ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

The Cover

Innovative teachers Kaitlyn Murphy and Jessica Stanford are making a difference in students’ lives.

Read more on page 6.

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INTERVIEW

Midway teacher brings innovation to the classroom

By CARSON COOK

carson@appenmediagroup.com

ABBY BYRD PHOTOGRAPHY

K

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aitlyn Murphy knew she wanted to be a teacher as early as kindergarten.

“I just always loved teaching people,” she said. “I would teach my younger brother the things I was learning. I really love to see people learn something new and see it excite them, so I always knew. I had my own classroom in my basement.”

Murphy is going into her third year as a first-grade teacher at Midway Elementary School in Forsyth County, her first teaching job after graduating from the University of North Georgia.

“I had heard good things about Midway, so they were at the top of my list,” Murphy said. “When I interviewed, I fell in love with the principal and the administration; and luckily, they loved me.

“The school reminds me of my own elementary school, in that it’s very welcoming,” she said. “Everybody says that when they walk in, they feel like they’re at home and there are family and friends there.”

Murphy said she wouldn’t want to teach anywhere else because of Midway and Forsyth County Schools’ commitment to innovative teaching strategies. She’s developed a reputation for being one of the first to try new things.

“I really love the direction that they’re headed, investing in technology and personalized learning,” she said. “The county pushes a lot of technology use — and use in a good way, not just a time-filler.”

One example of personalized learning is giving students different seating options, something Murphy successfully implemented in her second year of teaching. The county has also helped her adopt virtual reality technology and other tools that she might not have tried outside of Forsyth, she said.

While Murphy initially thought she would want to teach upper elementary school, she now can’t imagine trading in the smiling faces and hugs she receives from first-graders each day.

“The one thing that I love about teaching is that every day is going to be different,” she said. “I don’t go to a job where everything is the same and I have meetings all day. I walk in, and I’m teaching something different and my kids are in a different mood. You never know what you’re in for, and that’s what keeps you coming back.” ■

INTERVIEW

Mashburn teacher shows students how to be themselves

By CARSON COOK

carson@appenmediagroup.com

J

ABBY BYRD PHOTOGRAPHY

essica Stanford knows having fun in the classroom and teaching kids to withstand peer pressure go hand-in-hand.

Stanford is a teacher at Cumming’s Mashburn Elementary, where she attended elementary school and where she did her student teaching before graduating from the University of North Georgia. Now going into her fifth year of teaching, Stanford is switching to fourth grade after years of teaching fifth-grade reading and social studies.

“You get to teach them how to love life, whereas in high school, you have to meet them where they are,” Stanford said. “The fifth-graders are figuring out who they are and the type of person they want to be. You get to influence that. You get to help them realize that being weird is actually pretty cool, and you don’t have to like what everyone else likes.”

Stanford, a self-described nerd and fan of Star Wars, Harry Potter and Doctor Who, said she incorporates that nerdiness into her lessons.

The teacher’s role in encouraging individuality sets upper elementary school apart, Stanford said, and imparts an important message to students before the challenging years of middle school.

“We have a lot of conversations about how it’s not always going to be easy, but it’s going to be OK,” Stanford said. “As long as you love who you are, it’s going to be OK. You can’t listen to everyone else.”

Stanford said there’s little difference between what she’s like in the classroom and at home, which can make it challenging to find work-life balance.

“It can be difficult to disconnect,” she said. “I don’t think you ever really can. I refer to them as ‘my kids.’ If I know that they’re going to go home and it’s not going to be a great evening for them, I’ll think about that too.”

But her passion and personalized approach to teaching makes each class engaging.

For example, each Halloween, Stanford’s students can write essays to persuade her to wear a costume of their choice. Students who appeal to her nerdiness have the best chance of winning, she said, which is why in years past, students may have seen Princess Leia or Hermione Granger walking the halls of Mashburn.

This fun approach is one reason why in 2017, Stanford was named Mashburn Teacher of the Year, and why she remains in many students’ hearts.

“You get to be one of those people they remember for the rest of their lives, if you do a good job,” Stanford said. “When you teach fifth grade, you send them off to middle school and you think you’ll never hear from them again. The best compliment you can get is when a student reaches back out to you. Them wanting you to know that you made a difference is the best feeling.” ■ august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 7

HER STYLE

When empty-nesters go back to work What to wear to a job interview with a millennial

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By LORI WYNNE Contributing Writer

T

he last of your kids have headed off to college, and you are officially an empty-nester. Congratulations! You finally have some time to focus on yourself. Will you work, travel or, perhaps, do a little of both?

If work is in your future, it’s time to dust off the resume and figure out which industry can best use the experience you have honed over the years. Once that is narrowed down, and you have the job interview scheduled, what are you going to wear? Is a blazer and skirt still the proper attire for an interview?

Tricia Dempsey, former chief executive officer of Agile, an IT recruiting firm in Alpharetta, is a wealth of information. Dempsey also coaches women who are serious about reaching their career and life goals through her business Thrive-Her. “Up is not the next level,” she said about the women she coaches.

Their next chapter is about being “more aligned with their purpose and strength.”

“It’s such a transitional time for dress for women [in the business world],” Dempsey said. “Without exception, no one is dressing up. When we are prepping candidates for interviews, we recommend something like a date-night dress.”

Knee-length is the most flattering length, she said; but make sure the dress doesn’t hike up to your mid-thigh when you sit down. Sleeves are always a safe bet. Avoid lace, sequins or anything sheer, she advised.

HER STYLE

NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN JUNE 2018

Packing for Heat

for Travel essentials s summer getaway

summer beach reads You won't be n able to put dow

A closed-toe shoe with a low heel (not flats) is always in style. Wear understated jewelry to the interview. You want them to remember you, not your fabulous tassel earrings, she said.

“Too dressed up can put the customer or interviewer at unease,” Dempsey said. “Millennials as senior managers are wearing nice trousers and a blouse from Banana Republic or J Crew. That is at the top of their dress scale.”

Dempsey shared a recent meeting with one of her accounts in Utah. “[At Adobe], they are super chill,” she said.

“It’s T-shirt and jeans every day. When I met with my client, he was in shorts. I wore a wrap dress and low heels. I felt very comfortable and confident.”

Casual doesn’t mean sloppy

Dempsey mentioned a friend in an executive search firm, who dresses casually in jeans and a blouse in the office. While her look is casual, it is by no means sloppy. Every item is quality and fits well, and she said her friend looks sharp wearing them. She finishes the look with sandals, flats or low wedge boots, depending on the season.

“VP and C-level types are a bit more dressy,” she said. “The lower staff is super casual.”

After you land the job

“Wear flats in the office and keep a pair of closed-toe or peep-toe heels in the car or desk drawer in case you need to meet with a client,” she said.

When video conferencing, wear a solid bright color, and avoid small patterns such as herringbone that may not translate well on a digital format. If you are telecommuting from home via Skype or Zoom, your team can only see you from the sternum up. Make sure your hair and makeup is professional, and wear a nice blouse. No one will ever know you are wearing yoga pants or pajamas on your bottom half, she said.

Final tip

A casual dress code doesn’t mean casual hygiene. A professional and polished look from the neck up is vital to complete your overall “I’m dressed casually, but I mean business” presentation. Consider updating your hairstyle and makeup routine. ■

As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharettabased Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best. Connect with her at fashionwithflair.com.

Until there are none

the Empty shelters is ue goal of pet resc

JOIN OUR TEAM You’re a people person. You’re persuasive.

You can multitask, problem solve, meet deadlines, and talk your way into (or out of) situations all while in the drive-thru line at Starbucks.

You long for a job with a flexible schedule and earnings that reward you for results.

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Northside Woman is looking for natural-born persuaders and promoters to help local small businesses get bigger and better.

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NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN Covering North Fulton and South Forsyth

august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 9

SHE GIVES BACK

Little Helpers Big Hearts

Creating a kindness movement for our youth

By KIMBERLY TYSON

kimberly@appenmediagroup.com

S

outh Vietnamese refugee Tran Bui Smith knows the value of hard work, sacrifice and freedom, and she believes that it creates both an obligation and an opportunity to help others.

In 1975, during the fall of Saigon, 3-year-old Tran, her parents and two sisters fled South Vietnam, escaping an overturned government and oppression, in search of a better life. That new life began when she and her family were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard after a rigorous boat ride from her native country. They then lived in several refugee camps before settling in Arkansas.

“Because of my parents’ work ethic, sacrifices and sheer determination, we were able to succeed and enjoy the freedom they desperately wanted for us. With that freedom, comes an obligation to give back,” the Roswell 10 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

Jackson Smith, Nico and Anthony DiRocco making sandwiches for the homeless at 7 Bridges to Recovery in Atlanta.

resident said.

Mirroring the determination of her parents, Tran made the commitment to instill in her own children the importance of giving back. So, in 2010, and on her daughter Ava’s third birthday, she launched Little Helpers in Memphis, Tennessee, where she was living at the time.

Little Helpers is a volunteer-based program that teaches children of all ages to commit their time to helping others in need.

Various monthly service or kindness projects are organized within the community.

“The program is designed to help young people understand the value of volunteering, recognize the blessings of their lives, broaden their community perspective and feel the sense of accomplishment received from lending a helping hand,” she said.

Tran’s desire to serve her community and show her kids the importance of serving others followed her wherever she relocated. When

Tran and her family left Memphis and moved to Rochester, New York, she started a Little Helpers chapter there. Then in 2015, after moving to the Roswell area, Tran launched a metro Atlanta chapter. Since its inaugural chapter opened in Memphis, the organization has grown to 20 chapters throughout the world, including Las Vegas, Austin, Texas, Charlotte, North Carolina, Dublin, Ireland, Costa Rica and Tran’s birth country, Vietnam.

In a world where kindness is sometimes overlooked and face-to-face interaction is stifled by a social media-obsessed society, Little Helpers teaches the next generation to be compassionate toward others through its kindness and service projects. Projects include making sandwiches for the homeless, picking up trash in local parks, visiting nursing homes, collecting supplies for the needy, sending care packages to the military, delivering treats to local heroes and first responders in remembrance of 9/11, bathing shelter animals

SHE GIVES BACK

Penny Nour reading to shelter dogs at Mostly Mutts in Kennesaw.

Jackson, Tran and Ava Smith serving on MLK Day with Jewish Atlanta & In the City Camp. We made lunch to feed children at an Atlanta youth group.

and completing yard work at domestic violence shelters.

Tran’s two children Jackson,14, and Ava, 11, have not missed a monthly service project since Little Helpers began.

“I wanted to expose my children to volunteer work,” she said. “In the process, I’d hoped that they would see what happens when you help others and how it could make a huge difference in so many lives.”

Every year, in honor of Trevor George, a Little Helper who passed away at the age of 6, the organization dedicates the entire month of October to perform random acts of kindness.

Trevor’s Toes and Tushies is a local event that helps collect socks and undergarments for needy families. During the event, Little Helper volunteers dress in Trevor’s trademark attire — superhero costumes and mismatched socks — to deliver the donations to families in need.

Tran’s ultimate goal in 2010 was to show her children how giving back would not only

impact the lives of those in need, but also impact their own lives. It was a way to build their confidence and reinforce the importance of showing kindness and gratitude as a lifestyle.

“We can’t just tell our children to say ‘please’ and ‘thank-you,’” she said. “We need to show them how to be considerate of others and grateful for what they have. For me, it’s a priority and a commitment.”

To learn more about Little Helpers, or if you are interested in volunteering for or donating to a service project, visit their Facebook page, https://www.facebook. com/pages/Little-Helpers or email LittleHelpersKindKids@gmail.com. ■

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LITTLE HELPERS

Little Helpers annual event called Trevor's Toes & Tushies, a socks & underwear drive in memory of our beloved volunteer Trevor George (Penfield, NY) who passed away from SUDC or Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood in August 2014 at the age of 6.

Trevor's trademarks were his adorable smile, mismatched socks & superhero outfits. We wore superhero attire & mismatched socks to deliver socks & underwear plus volunteer at the Simple Needs GA donation warehouse in Marietta.

august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 11

The Write Stuff

GOOD BOOKS

Trying to get a book published?

Atlanta Writers Club can help

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI Contributing Writer

T

here’s nothing George Weinstein enjoys more than helping authors realize their dreams of getting published.

“That’s my calling,” said Weinstein, who is back for his second stint as president of Atlanta Writers Club. Although his sixth novel will be released this fall, he said writing isn’t his primary focus.

“It’s helping other writers.”

To that end, Weinstein co-founded the Atlanta Writers Conference in 2008. The twice-annual event draws authors from throughout the country to meet, get feedback from and, in some cases, sign with leading literary agents and acquisitions editors.

“We showcase writers who might normally be ignored by the industry,” he said. “Dreams really do come true.”

Just how that happens, however, is a literary case of two roads diverging – traditional publishing and self-publishing. Though neither road is less traveled anymore, the options for each can make all the difference. (See “Paths to Publication” on page 13.)

“Traditional publishing or self-publishing is a tradeoff for writers, and a bet they’re wagering,” Weinstein said.

Often, the choice pivots around three issues: creative control, timeline and financial risk. These topics are among those addressed

by Atlanta Writers Club, which was founded in 1914 and offers critique groups, monthly meetings, periodic workshops and an annual writing contest, as well as conferences.

Novelist and Atlanta Writers Club member Susan Crawford, of Doraville, chose the agented approach.

“My path to publication was a long and winding one, with many detours,” she said. “Raising three daughters, countless jobs, moving, switching agents, life in general.”

But when Crawford finished “The Pocket Wife,” her first psychological suspense novel, she signed up for the next Atlanta Writers Conference, where she submitted her manuscript to literary agent Jenny Bent.

“After much rewriting on my part, she took it on,” Crawford said.

“My agent has opened many doors for me. She steered me through an

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Author Susan Crawford.

Author Liz Lazarus.

Author George Weinstein.

GOOD BOOKS THREE PATHS TO PUBLICATION

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI

G

eorge Weinstein, president of the Atlanta Writers Club, outlined the three most common paths to publication. While numerous websites and books offer more detailed guidance, Weinstein’s overview is a good starting point.

TRADITIONAL WITH LITERARY AGENT • Degree of difficulty: Most difficult, because it requires the most steps, and many are beyond the author’s control.

• Cost to writer: No upfront costs. Agents typically keep 15 percent of all income.

• Revenues for writer: Publishers usually pay an advance against royalties that can range between a few thousand to a million dollars, or more.

Royalties for book sales can be earned forever.

• Estimated timeline from submission to print: one to five years, or longer.

• Consider this path if your ambition is to be a bestseller or at least with a top publisher, with your book in stores, reviewed by media and eligible for the most-recognized awards.

• Pros: There are no costs for the author. This is the most likely route for potentially making the most money and getting on bestseller lists. Also, there are writers conferences that can possibly reduce the timeframe from years to months.

• Cons: Takes the longest time due to the multiple hurdles of securing an agent, who then must interest a publisher. Authors usually give up creative control of their books, which publishers hold the rights to for years.

auction, negotiated my contract with Harper Collins and went on to sell my books to many European publishers.

“My experience with traditional publishing has surpassed my wildest dreams,” she said.

Liz Lazarus, also a Atlanta Writers Club member, took a different approach after finishing her first thriller and querying multiple agents.

“I was met with rejections or no replies, to the point I thought about abandoning the project,” the Brookhaven resident said. “Instead, I did the research required to self-publish and launched my first book, ‘Free of Malice,’ in 2016. Reviews were so encouraging that I published my second thriller, ‘Plea for Justice,’ in 2018.”

Though Weinstein said writers can spend thousands self-publishing, Lazarus had a plan to recoup her investment. It involved sending herself on a 22-state book tour for her first novel, largely arranged around the travel schedule for her full-time consulting job.

“What I make on book sales doesn’t compare to what I make consulting,” Lazarus said, “but I didn’t write with that focus. Writing was a calling.”

Financial lessons learned with her first book even helped Lazarus turn a profit on her second.

In May, however, Lazarus attended her first Atlanta Writers Conference.

“And it was well worth it,” she said. She won the best pitch award from Lake Union Publishing and is now considering traditional publishing for her third book.

“Meeting an agent face-to-face is night and day from sending a ‘cold’ query letter,” Lazarus said.

Weinstein has published all six of his novels traditionally, without an agent. The process took years, and setbacks lowered his expectations and ambitions; but Weinstein is content.

“I do not want to be a bestselling author, because those people have to work at it all the time,” he said. “I want to run a writers club, and I want to run a writers conference.”

For more information on the Atlanta Writers Club and its Oct. 25-26 conference, go to atlantawritersclub.org. ■

TRADITIONAL WITHOUT A LITERARY AGENT • Degree of difficulty: Moderate to very, depending on the eagerness of the small to medium traditional publisher solicited.

• Cost to writer: No upfront costs.

• Revenues for writer: Publishers may pay an advance – ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars – and/or royalties in perpetuity for sales. Authors may also sell copies themselves.

• Estimated timeline from submission to print: Months to years, depending on how long it takes to find a publisher and then how long the publisher takes to produce the book.

• Consider this path if you don’t want to pay anything, but you also don’t want to spend possibly years securing an agent.

• Pros: Eliminates the time required to find an agent, and there are no costs for the author. Bookstores and libraries might carry the book if the publisher uses an approved distributor.

• Cons: Small and medium publishers tend not to have the capital for marketing, publicity and public relations, which will impact sales. Also, it can still take months or years to find an interested publisher. The author usually gives up creative control and ownership rights.

SELF-PUBLISHING • Degree of difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the author’s facility with software tools and expertise in book design, packaging and promotion.

• Cost to writer: Inexpensive, if authors do all the work. Can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars if authors hire professionals.

• Revenues for writer: Do-it-yourself authors keep the revenue from each sale. If a self-publishing company is used, they can claim publication rights and give authors a percentage of revenues from each sale.

• Estimated timeline from submission to print: Days to weeks.

• Consider this path if you want creative control, a short production timeline and most or all profits — and if you don’t mind the financial risk.

• Pros: Short timeline from finished manuscript to a book for sale, and some or all revenue goes to the author. Authors not using a self-publishing company maintain all rights to their work.

• Cons: Authors bear all the financial risk with no guarantee of recouping their investments, let alone profiting. In an already crowded marketplace, authors without marketing talents usually don’t sell many books.

Also, some self-publishing companies claim the rights to authors’ work for years.

For more information on the paths to publication, start here: https://www.janefriedman.com/key-book-publishing-path/.

■

Contributing journalist Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi, owner of Johns Creek’s KRC Communications. Connect with her at krccom.com. august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 13

HER GARDEN

Garden school is always cool

14 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

By ABRA LEE

Contributing Writer

I

recently took a two-day course from personal color and style consultant Wendy Jacobs with House of Colour. After all of these years, turns out I’m not fashion deficient. I just lacked the education that comes with knowing my correct color palette and style profile. Just as I was making reckless clothing choices, we sometimes make reckless plant choices. If you have a black thumb, before you lay a big toe in the garden center, a class may be in order.

Now, I am all for technology, but the internet is the Wild West of information. Any and everyone will give you feedback on why your plant died.

While there is always an app for that, gardening is best learned by observation and patience. When it comes to plants, there is nothing better than good old-fashioned in-person learning. Getting your hands dirty under the watchful eye of an instructor empowers you to approach nature fearlessly.

Though you will come away with necessary knowledge to avoid the pitfalls of being a serial plant killer, know there are valuable lessons in failure. Everybody can’t grow everything; so be

kind to yourself.

And if you are a serial plant killer, so what?

Here’s your gentle reminder that horticulture is a broad field. Consider there are also plantthemed classes offered on botanical art, garden photography, crafts, food, watercolor, jewelry, leaf casting and botany. Several courses are offered through the University of Georgia Extension Service, display gardens, technical colleges, universities and nurseries. There are even professional certifications that can help you launch a second career. Moral of the story? Don’t let back to school be just for the kiddos; let it apply to your inner plant lady too. ■

Abra Lee is a horticulturist extraordinaire and unapologetically passionate about all things gardening. You can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @conquerthesoil.

State senate candidate hopes to bring more women to political table

WOMAN IN BUSINESS

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI

julia@appenmediagroup.com

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SARAH BEESON

R

oswell native, mother and small business operator Sarah Beeson is hoping to become the new face for Georgia’s Senate District 56.

The Democrat announced her candidacy in April for the seat, currently held by Republican Sen. John Albers of Roswell. The district encompasses portions of North Fulton and Cherokee counties, including parts of Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, Sandy Springs and Woodstock.

Chief among her campaign’s goals are the ideas of fair and equal representation, she said, which includes increasing the number of women in the Georgia Senate.

She said demographics in most governing bodies do not look like the populations they were elected to represent, and that this disconnect has led women, people of color, people under 35 and others not typically represented to step up and run for public office.

But despite a surge of women in politics, the numbers of women representatives are still low, she said.

“Women comprise only 28.8 percent of state legislative bodies nationwide and only 26.7 percent of the Georgia Senate,” Beeson said. “That means only one in four seats in the Georgia Senate is held by a woman, despite women comprising 53 percent of the state population. Women need a seat at the table when discussing legislation that directly impacts us, and I think at the legislative level, 2019 provided a stark example of what happens when that simply isn't the case.”

Beeson currently operates a family business with more than 50 employees and is a leadership council member for the National Small Business Association. She is also the communications chair on the board for Advance Atlanta, a nonprofit committed to expanding transit throughout the metro area.

“As someone who is a mother, operates a small business and spent most of her life in the district, I saw that there were many areas of policy that are currently lacking,” Beeson said. “Because of the unique perspective I provide, as well as my desire for fair representation, I recognized an innate calling to run for public office.”

Legislative issues affecting children are among the first priorities the mother of one said she would want to tackle if elected.

“The concerns that keep me and millions of other Georgia parents awake at night pertains to what future we are providing for our children,” she said.

Some of her concerns include if Georgia’s children have access to quality education, safety in schools, affordable higher education, job opportunities, affordable health care and environmental protection.

“These are questions that lawmakers need to work on addressing every day they are in office — questions I intend to answer,” Beeson said.

On her website, Beeson says she supports expanding transit and Medicaid, increasing access to mental health care, fighting climate change, improving access to education, addressing gun violence and growing small businesses. She also says she believes in representing all Georgian, including women, minorities, LGBTQ people and immigrants.

Beeson graduated from the University of Georgia with a master’s degree in business administration and is completing a master’s degree in environmental management online from the University of Maryland, with an emphasis on public policy. She previously worked for the Human Rights Campaign, an LGBTQ advocacy group, and has served in leadership positions within the Young Democrats of Georgia organization.

“Collectively, my background gives me an enlightened, well-rounded view on matters pertaining to business, public policy, advocacy, sustainability and a forwardlooking perspective to ensure Georgia is looking toward the future,” Beeson said.

For more information about Beeson and her campaign, visit votebeeson.com. ■

Women comprise only 28.8 percent of state legislative bodies nationwide and only 26.7 percent of the Georgia Senate...That means only one in four seats in the Georgia Senate is held by a woman...” august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 15

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Making interior spaces functional, safe and beautiful

Remodel your bathroom on a budget

By CAROLYN KIMBRO Contributing Writer

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bathroom renovation is a great way to increase the value of your home, but where do you begin? Is an update possible without the cost of a major renovation? I think so! Here are some ideas for updating your bathroom in a budget-friendly manner.

First, painting is a quick and easy way to give your bathroom(s) a face-lift. The two main areas you may consider painting are the cabinets and/or walls. Paint the cabinets white to brighten the room, or add a pop of color, such as navy or mint, for a fresh look. Painting the walls will also help refresh an outdated bathroom.

In a similar vein, adding wallpaper will breathe life into your remodel. One idea is to use wallpaper on the vanity wall as an accent or above a chair rail as an alternative to paint.

A focal point in any bathroom, whether it is the master or powder room, is the mirror. Many homes have a building-standard mirror, and this is a great place for a quick refresh. If your bathroom currently has a framed mirror, try replacing it with a round or oval mirror with a thin metal frame. The new mirror will modernize and give clean lines to complement your final update. If your bathroom has a large mounted mirror, add trim to frame it out and finish your new frame with a coat of

paint or stain.

Next, try changing out the fixtures to update your bathroom. Find a new faucet profile and metal finish to create a refreshed look. Keep the profiles and finishes cohesive by selecting sink faucets with matching tub and shower fixtures.

Finally, giving your bathroom a lighting update is like adding the perfect necklace to an outfit. The lighting in your bathroom should complement all the work you have put into your remodel. Pick a vanity light that will provide ample task lighting at the sink. Select a new chandelier or semi-flush fixture for general lighting. New lighting will add the perfect final touch to an update.

These small changes can help you update and create your dream bathroom, and are less expensive than a major renovation project. â–

As an Interior Designer and Owner of Peachtree Studios, Interior Design, Carolyn Kimbro creates spaces that are comfortable, personal, and interesting. Through a mix of old and new, a variation of textures, and small details, each space comes to life.

Connect with her at carolyn@peachtreestudiointeriors.com. august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 17

HER HOME SPONSORED SECTION

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Design Interiors N

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 designing for the lifestyles of today.

How pioneering technology is transforming Tuscany Fine Furnishings…

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hen my wife Kathy and I founded Tuscany in 2004, we championed new sales techniques such as just-in-time inventory and selling “everything off our Showroom Floor” , when most other retailers were selling from floor models offering, “Special Order only”. Moreover, we hired a sales staff consisting of professional interior designers and focused on expanding our business by offering a wide selection of supplier collections along with design services.

We used typical marketing vehicles such as T.V. and Radio, Print Media including, newspapers, magazines, post cards, signage and digital website advertising. When Social Media and Online Sales Technologies came on the scene, Tuscany dabbled around a bit during our first five years, testing various ad campaigns and exploring an online sales business model.

Over the past three years, Tuscany Fine Furnishings has amassed over 20,000 Social Media followers or as we call them, “Shoppers”! We opened our new 18,000 sq. ft. State-of-the Art Showroom and Design Center in 2017 and launched our New Age Website for Design and Interiors, in January of 2019.

This month, Tuscany’s Social Media Marketing success brought

us recognition from both Facebook and our National Home Furnishings Association (NHFA). Facebook selected Tuscany Fine Furnishings, as a Small Business Success Story to be featured on their new Business Website: https://www.facebook.com/ boost/businesses and promoted nationally at marketing conferences around the country. In addition, our NHFA, representing over 7,000 furniture retailers nationwide is featuring Tuscany Fine Furnishings as a Social Media Marketing, Industry Pioneer.

Both Facebook and our NHFA, were impressed by Tuscany’s integrated Social Media Marketing Channels. Moreover, Tuscany had accumulated a loyal following of over 20,000 families as a single location brick-and-mortar. Furthermore, they were inspired by Tuscany’s, "Industry First, New Age Website for Design and Interiors" , we launched in January, seamlessly integrating Facebook, Instagram, Google Business (Maps and Search) and YouTube.

Additionally, Tuscany Fine Furnishings was selected by our NHFA to provide a cover story for their quarterly national publication in October to their entire membership.

We were asked to provide a road map for other retailers in our industry into Social Media Marketing. ■

Kelle McConnell, owner and Kathy McConnell, Interior Designer and Owner , Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Offering Lifestyle Driven Design...Furnishings for Every Room in Your Home, 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 315, in Roswell, 770-993-0640 ext. 2, Showroom Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 p.m.

Sun. 1-5 p.m… See why…20,000 Families Follow and Shop Tuscany on Everyday!

TUSCANYFINEFURNISHINGS.COM

18 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

HER HOME SPONSORED SECTION

Walls are a simple yet high-impact way to transform any room

By ZAINA WUEST Exquisite Living

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ith shimmering metallic and elegant wallpapers, shiplap-style cladding and even simple paint effects, walls can create a dramatic focal point in a space.

If you’re considering an update, remember that color is a powerful design tool. It can make a room feel peaceful, happy, comfortable or dramatic. The paint colors you choose, as well as the color of the furniture and accessories, all create a mood. A neutral paint scheme may go with everything, but a lot of beige and gray can really get you down.

We love creating lively living spaces with vibrant pops of color. But choosing the right shade can be an overwhelming task. Even paint cards can be misleading – you’ll quite often find that a color looks more or less pigmented when applied to a large surface area, and the exact shade will be affected by the light fall, size and even the contents of the room. The good news is, if it doesn't work, you can simply start again.

If you’re considering a makeover for you home’s walls, here are five tips to get you on the right track.

• Consider the amount of natural light you get in the space. Sure, a dark shade will make for a dramatic feature wall, but without natural light, it’ll just end up looking grim and depressing.

• Be wary of eye-popping brights. That eye-popping hue may have caught your attention in the glossy magazine, but 20 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

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consider the size of the space you’re working with. If it’s not big enough to carry it, bright shades can overwhelm and create visual clashes. Remember, you can always introduce vibrant hues through cushions, throws and artwork.

Avoid going too matchy-matchy. Furniture, floor coverings, paintings and rugs can serve as solid inspiration for which color to choose, but avoid matching everything exactly.

Choosing a shade much lighter or darker than the pre-existing elements of a room works much more effectively.

Don’t rely on sample swatches. Always test the color directly on the wall to get a true sense of how it will really look. Leave it on the wall for a day or two, and observe how the light plays with it, creating shadows at different times. For example, black paint has a reputation for looking dramatically different in certain lights – from green to blue to gray. Colors tend to come out darker on walls than they appear on paint chips, so if in doubt, err on the lighter side.

Don’t get caught up in trends. Shudder at the thought of that splotchy sponge-painted wall trend popular in the 1990s? Don’t get caught up in the fads. Be daring, but follow your instincts and not the trends. ■ Exquisite Living |6225 Atlanta Highway | Alpharetta, GA 30004

YOUR HOME, YOUR STORY, MAKE IT

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ALPHARETTA CITY CENTER | 370 COMMERCE ST., ALPHARETTA, GA 30005 Furniture | Area Rugs | Accessories | Wall Décor and Canvas Art | Luxury Bedding | Lighting Wallpaper | Custom Window Treatments | Hardwood Floors | Blinds Ask about our design service.

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HER HOME SPONSORED SECTION

CRYE-LEIKE® REALTORS® continues to grow in the Atlanta region and offers some of the most competitive commission splits!

Actively seeking new agents and brokers to join the team

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RYE-LEIKE® is a full-service real estate company founded in Memphis, Tennessee in 1977. It offers one-stop shopping services in real estate including: residential, relocation, commercial, business brokerage, property management, REO management, mortgage lending, insurance, title and closing, home vendor referrals, auctions, rentals, franchise sales and home builder services.

As one of the nation’s largest, full-ervice real estate companies, CRYE-LEIKE® has a network of more than 3,100 sales associates and over 139 offices located throughout a ninestate region. For over 40 years, CRYE-LEIKE® has delivered a passionate commitment to unsurpassed service. CRYE-LEIKE®’s commitment to support communities inspires its agents to constantly improve relationships with clients, and respond quickly to customer needs, while conducting business with

22 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

integrity and trust. Today, CRYE-LEIKE® is the third largest real estate company in the nation, reaching a sales record of $6.5 billion in 2018.

CRYE-LEIKE® continues to grow in the Atlanta market and is actively seeking new agents and brokers to join its team! CRYELEIKE®’s 13 branch offices include: Cumming, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Norcross, Hall County/Lake Lanier, Woodstock, Cartersville, Smyrna, Dawsonville, Douglasville, McDonough, Buford/Flowery Branch and as of recent, Peachtree City.

May 16, marked the opening of CRYELEIKE®’s 13th metro Atlanta office in Peachtree City, Georgia. Located at 2838 W. Hwy. 54, the newest sales branch is managed by REALTOR® Mark Simpson and is positioned to capture the Peachtree City and Fayette County markets.

CRYE-LEIKE® has accelerated expansion plans that aim to further its footprint in the

greater Atlanta region with a new office in Lawrenceville opening later this year.

CRYE-LEIKE® offers competitive commission splits, cutting-edge technology and marketing tools, in house and online training, referral opportunities and the tools you need to take your business to the next level. CRYE-LEIKE® sells more homes in the South than any other company. Please call one of the local offices today for an interview. For more information regarding CRYE-LEIKE®’s services, please visit the website at www.cryeleike.com. ■

HER BEAUTY

Bio-identical hormones can ease pre-menopausal symptoms

By LORI WYNNE Contributing Writer

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s women, we have been riding the hormone roller coaster practically since we were born. When we are younger, it is often dismissed as PMS. As we grow older, it “must be going through the change.” Hot flashes, low libido, mood changes, irritability, inability to lose weight, increased belly fat, inability to fall asleep and stay asleep, vaginal dryness, mental fogginess and low stamina are all symptoms our body presents when there is an imbalance. But there is something you can do about it.

Northside Woman recently asked board certified physician assistant Ferrina Sheth to discuss the basics regarding hormones and the myriad of hormone replacement therapies (HRT) available.

“When you have symptoms, your body is telling you something,” said Sheth, a bioidentical hormone and medical aesthetics specialist at Restorative Health at North Gwinnett in Sugar Hill, the Blue Med Center in Atlanta and Premier Women’s Health in Lithonia.

“Symptoms are the body’s way of communicating with us of any imbalance,” she said. “It is always important to get to the root cause of a symptom, rather than just masking it with anti-depressants or other medications.”

For more than 30 years, bio-identical hormones have been helping pre-menopausal and menopausal women deal with symptoms related to menopause.

“It is best to visit a BHRT (bio-identical hormone replacement therapy) health care provider to determine the root cause, and if hormone therapy is the correct support the body needs,” she said.

Common hormones that are matched to help women with menopausal symptoms include estradiol (the major form of estrogen in females), testosterone and progesterone, Sheth said. While estrogen has more than 400 different functions, it helps with mood and

protects vital organs including the heart, the breasts, ovaries and other major organs. It also supports mental focus and sexual health.

Testosterone is vital in the female body and helps with mood, libido and muscle mass, along with joint pain and inflammation.

Progesterone opposes estrogen, thus balancing it in the body. It also supports serotonin activity, which helps with sleep.

“Over-the-counter supplements like black cohosh, primrose and DIM (Diindolylmethane) may help relieve menopausal symptoms, but they are not hormones,” Sheth said. “Therefore, [they] do not protect or benefit your body as the BHRT.” Bio-identical hormone therapies are plant-based and come in oral, cream, gel, vaginal inserts or pellet form.

“Creams are applied once or twice a day to the inner arm or inner thigh,” she said. “The absorption is best on those areas of the body due to the vascular permeability (thinner skin and the visual presence of veins). [But] creams can be less effective due to application errors.”

If applied with the palm of the hand, the hormone remains mostly on the palm, Sheth said. If applied with a device, the cream can end up just being smeared around on the applicator instead of on the skin, she said.

Pellets can be easily inserted under the skin through a small procedure done at the office by a BHRT health care provider.

“Studies have shown that they last up to three months or longer, and release hormones as your body requires them,” Sheth said. “This takes away the burden from patient from either taking a pill or apply things to their

skin; hence, giving an accurate and consistent release specific to the individual.”

As with any therapy, Sheth says there are contraindications and side effects. She cautioned it is always important to ensure the benefits outweigh any risks before you start BHRT. “There have not been any large studies that support that BHRT changes any risk factor of breast cancer,” she said, but “your personal risk is best assessed by your health care provider.”

As added support, she said supplements such as DIM and micronized progesterone can be prescribed for estrogen balance and metabolism.

According to cancerresearchuk.org, the chance for cancer is there with BHRT, but is very small.

“The balance of risks and benefits is different for each person,” the website states.

“So, talk to your health care provider about what option might be best for you. They should help you decide according to your needs for treatment. There are other things that affect cancer risk more strongly. For example, you can reduce your cancer risk by keeping a healthy weight, not drinking alcohol and stopping smoking.”

Sheth said studies show women can use bio-identical hormone replacement therapies up to 75 years of age.

“As women shift the focus to their wellbeing, we cannot ignore the need for hormone balancing to achieve an optimum quality of life,” Sheth said. “I hear complaints from female patients who were ‘conquering the world’ in business, and all of a sudden aren’t able to conduct a meeting due to forgetfulness and emotions. Then, some are empty-nesters and now have the time to focus on themselves.

“I’m thankful I’ve gone into this field,” she said. “I can see a difference [BHRT makes] in a woman’s life.”

Some therapies discussed in this article are not FDA-approved. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns. ■

As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharetta-based Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best. Connect with her at fashionwithflair.com. august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 23

HER GUIDE

Take a "field" trip before heading back to school

By CHARMAINE JACKSON Contributing Writer

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ummer is nearly over, and it’s time to shift gears, buy school supplies and fall clothes and send your children back to school. Why not enjoy that last blast of summer by going on a fun field trip before the family settles into school-year routines and schedules?

The whole family can enjoy a fun and educational field trip just a short drive from North Fulton. Here are a few ideas that are less than an hour’s drive away.

Cartersville

Start your day in Cartersville at the Tellus Science Museum to learn about science and technology in its 800-square-foot solar house and its Science in Motion exhibit, which features displays of cars, airplanes and space capsules. Then, visit T-Rex and the dinosaurs in the fossil gallery and take a ride through the solar system in the Bentley Planetarium’s state-of-the-art digital projector shows. Stick around on special event Friday nights to gaze at the stars in the Tellus Observatory.

After your museum visit, it may be time to get outdoors. Head for the nearby Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site to see the most well-preserved Native American Mississippian culture site in the Southeast. Take a walk to see the six earthen mounds (including a 63-foot knoll platform) and explore how the native Indians lived here thousands of years ago.

Have a picnic lunch on the grounds, take a hike on the Etowah River trail and visit the museum and gift shop before wrapping up your field trip.

Cleveland/Clermont

As a tour operator and owner of GA Farm & Garden Tours, Inc., Charmaine Jackson creates unique and captivating tour experiences for your group. Connect with her at Charmaine@gafarmtours.com 24 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

Head north to Cleveland, Georgia, to visit the North Georgia Zoo and Farm for an exciting experience with a large variety of exotic animals, miniature and unique farm animals. You’ll start with a guided Wildlife Walk (45 minutes to an hour long) to see kangaroos, lemurs, wolves and other wild animals. Then, take a ride around the zoo to see camels, zebras, yaks, water buffalos and more. Go to the petting farm to pet and feed the animals at your leisure. There are shows and demonstrations, pony rides, bottle feedings and many other special animal encounters available.

Now, it’s time for ice cream! Take a short drive to the Mountain Fresh Creamery in Clermont for delicious premium ice cream (more than 25 flavors, such as cotton candy, strawberry basil, birthday cake) and the “best milkshakes” in Georgia at the Silo.

It’s all made fresh daily from milk and cream at the creamery. You can also plan a farm tour in advance (at least 24 hours) to see and tour the Glo-Crest Dairy and Mountain Fresh Creamery in operation.

Dahlonega

Strike gold on this family field trip. Did you know that the first gold rush in the United States was in the north Georgia town of Dahlonega in 1829?

Your family can go on an amazing adventure at the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and Consolidated Gold Mines. Tour the Dahlonega Gold Museum inside the Lumpkin County Courthouse on the city square to learn about the gold rush history.

You’ll see rare gold coins, a gold nugget and mining machinery. Enjoy the “Gold Fever” film and visit the gift shop before you leave.

Then, head over to the Consolidated Gold Mines for a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy a 40-minute guided tour 200 feet underground in the actual gold mine, where you’ll experience what it was like to be a miner. After the tour, you will receive free gold panning instructions, equipment and the chance to pan for gold yourself. It’s so much fun, and if you’re lucky, you might strike it rich and find some real gold!

For help organizing a tour for your family or group, contact Georgia Farm and Garden Tours by visiting the website http://gafarmtours.com/, calling or texting 678-575-7643 or emailing charmaine@ gafarmtours.com. ■ Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site https://gastateparks.org/EtowahIndianMounds 813 Indian Mounds Road SW, Cartersville, GA 30120 Phone: 770-387-3747 Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Mounds close at 4:30 p.m.)

North Georgia Zoo and Farm https://www.northgeorgiazoo.com/ 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland, GA 30528 (review online for accurate directions) Phone: 706-348-7279 Open: Monday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mountain Fresh Creamery http://mountainfreshcreamery.com/ 6615 Cleveland Highway, Clermont, GA 30527 Phone: 770-983-1666 Open Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site https://gastateparks.org/DahlonegaGoldMuseum 1 Public Square N, Dahlonega, GA 30533 Phone: 706-864-2254 Open: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Consolidated Gold Mines https://consolidatedgoldmine.com/ 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533 Phone: 706-864-8473 Open: Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tellus Science Museum https://tellusmuseum.org/ 100 Tellus Drive, Cartersville, GA 30120 Phone: 770-606-5700 Open: Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (except major holidays)

Simply delicious

HER VIEW

Casi Cielo, Sandy Springs 6125 Roswell Road, Suite 200

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PHOTOS BY SUZANNE PACEY

asi Cielo is not your average Mexican restaurant. Located in Sandy Springs’ new City Center area, Casi Cielo serves traditional Mexican cuisine with unique flavors and dishes inspired by Oaxaca, Mexico’s diverse gastronomic history. And if you’re into agave-based spirits, it also stocks the largest collection of mezcal in Atlanta.

General manager Hector Londono was quick to greet us, and we began our evening with a couple of handcrafted cocktails from the bar. The Chilerita Margarita featured Herradura Silver tequila, framboise, chamoy, lime juice, muddled orange and Valentina rimmed grasshopper salt. The La Llorona had Patron Reposado, jalapeño juice, agave, lime juice and homemade chile powder on the rim. Both were amazing, and their spicy ingredients gave each drink a subtle kick.

Following our drinks, we tucked into the Servico de Tostadas and Tlayuda Garden of Oaxaca.The handmade corn tostadas in a clay comal were served with tasty red and green sauce, and the Tlayuda was almost too pretty to eat with its black bean purée, Oaxaca cheese, asiento de credo, cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado and microgreens. But eat it, we did; and the combination of flavors was delicious.

Next, we sampled the Bisque de Langostino (a crustacean soup with charcoal prawn), the Tacos de Cochinillo filled with suckling pig, aguacatada sauce and chicharrón, and finally Oaxaca’s famous mole with Casi Cielo’s Pato Con Mole Negro. The black mole deliciously covered duck carnitas, red onions and cilantro, and was served with rice and pork frijolada.

I have to say I have never had anything quite like this. Everything was so fresh and the combination of ingredients were amazing.

At the end of our meal, Londono was happy for us to meet the executive chef, Juan Ruiz, who showed us the unique cooking techniques they have in their kitchen. Chef Ruiz has truly created something unique at Casi Cielo. It’s like stepping into an authentic Oaxacan kitchen without leaving Atlanta. ■ — Suzanne Pacey, Publisher

august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 25

SHE's SEXY

Shhh…the children will hear us!

By ELAINE WILCO, MA, LPC Contributing Writer

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here are many reasons why couples tend to have less sex after they have children. Some of these reasons tend to go away as babies move into childhood. But one impediment to intimacy just gets worse as the children get older: the worry that somehow the children will know what mommy and daddy are doing.

When children are small, having sex when the children are home and awake really isn’t an option, because they can’t be left unsupervised. As kids get older and are more able to occupy themselves, parents are even less likely to try to sneak in a bit of private time while the kids are still awake. It’s pretty difficult for most people to get sexy while listening for the inevitable call of “Mommmm!”

So, how do a couple of parents maintain an active sex life in the 18plus years before the kids eventually move out? Most wait until after the kids have gone to bed. Or, when the teens stay up all hours of the night, the parents get up earlier in the morning. A real triumph is to ship them 26 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

off to grandparents or friends for the night, so that mom and dad can have some truly private time.

There is another option, however, practiced by the lucky few. Starting when the children are old enough to amuse themselves for a brief time, institute “nap time” — for the grown-ups. If it starts when they are young, the children won’t think there is anything unusual about it.

While “nap time” activities will need to be pursued somewhat quietly, having regular alone time is great for a couple. And when the kids are old enough to figure out what is really happening when the parents are “napping,” they will be getting a valuable lesson in how to sustain a loving mature relationship. ■ Elaine Wilco is a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience. She maintains a private practice in Alpharetta focused on helping those with intimacy issues.

Follow her at facebook.com/IntimacyAtlanta.

Simply delicious

HER VIEW

PHOTOS BY SUZANNE PACEY

District M, Sandy Springs 6125 Roswell Rd. Suite 900

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ocated in the culinary epicenter of Sandy Springs, District M is capturing the attention of sushi lovers. Executive Chef Jackie Chang, who previously worked at Umi in Buckhead, serves artful omakase, moriawase, a la carte sushi and charcoal-grilled dishes.

Northside Woman was invited to sample some of their creations, and boy was it a treat!

General manager Simon Lim greeted us and treated us to the EBISU (six-set course) containing carpaccio, sashimi, black cod, nigiri sushi, soup and dessert. It was some of the freshest, most flavorful sushi I have ever eaten. It was beautifully prepared too.

The 16-seat sushi bar that surrounds the open kitchen offers patrons a front-row view of the chef’s creative presentation. A large dining area and outside patio is also available.

If you’re in the new City Center area of Sandy Springs, definitely stop by and check it out! ■ — Suzanne Pacey, Publisher

Loyal Q, ALPHARETTA

TO PHO

S BY S U Z A N NE PA C

EY

3655 Old Milton Pkwy.

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ocated in the old 7 Seasons Brewery in Alpharetta, Loyal Q and Brew barbecue is finding a following in its new home. The spacious restaurant and bar is the perfect spot for dinner with the family or watching a sporting event on TV with friends. It also has an awesome game room, outside seating and a bourbon room upstairs.

Northside Woman was invited to try some of menu items at this new barbecue joint, which is known for using traditional “smoakhouse” cooking techniques.

We started with the Smoakhouse Sausage Link, which was served with sharp cheddar cheese dusted with housemade rib rub, housemade pickles and a side of housemade mustard barbecue sauce. It was so good that we could have stopped there. But the Smoaked Salmon and the Two Meat Platter were calling our names, so we moved forward. The salmon, served with french fries, may have been a little too “smoaked” for me. It was a little dry. But the platter’s brisket and chopped pork, served with beans and mac and cheese, were so moist and flavorful that they made up for it.

We finished off the meal with banana pudding, which was my husband’s choice. It was by no means bad, but the flavor also didn’t wow me.

Our server was sweet and attentive, but we were never greeted by the manager. With so many great barbecue places around Alpharetta, I would have to give this one a B-. The restaurant was big and spacious and there was no wait for groups, but it’s a bit average on the food. ■ — Suzanne Pacey, Publisher august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 27

ASK THE VET

How animals assist human teaching

By DR. JOANNE ROESNER, Loving Hands Animal Clinic www.lovinghands.com

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s many of us who cared for classroom pets in our own experience, animals can assist in children’s learning.

This benefit has been recently confirmed by research. In my July 2018 Northside Woman column, I detailed the physical and psychological benefits of animals to humans of all ages. Animals in the educational setting specifically have been shown to decrease children’s anxiety and tension, lessen the number of emotional outbursts, increase motivation and engagement, and to improve kids’ attitudes towards learning. Children are more likely to follow instructions, stay more task focused, ask more appropriate questions, and to interact with teachers more when there are non-human classmates. School attendance even improves when caring for creatures is part of the classroom experience.

Many children naturally gravitate toward animals for emotional support if tired, frightened, upset, or lonely. Caring for creatures facilitates development of social skills between children, builds self-esteem, 28 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

improves sense of self-confidence, and teaches children responsibility. In children with special needs, classmates were 10 times more likely to interact with them if a dog was present. The lesson that one’s actions have consequences on other beings and practice building relationships occurs in classrooms with pets.

When incorporated into a lesson plan, animals just make learning more interesting and fun.

Weighing a hamster is an engaged way to teach about pounds and ounces. When I visit classrooms with a parrot, I always point out South America and the Amazon River on a globe.

Small mammals and dogs are incorporated into literacy programs in some schools. Here in metro Atlanta, Happy Tails (happytailspets. org) implements the READing Paws Project (Reading Educational Assistance Dog). Trained dogs offer students a clam, non judgemental, supportive, loving audience to read aloud to.

One study of 3rd graders demonstrated a 12% improvement in reading fluency of students who read aloud to a dog for only 10-15 minutes per week. Another showed a two grade level increase in reading competency. Prominent researcher, Dr. Annie Petersen, has shown similar improvements using small mammals

(guinea pigs, rabbits, and rats) instead of dogs. This June the Alpharetta Library had a weekly program utilizing a READing Paws dog. Fulton County’s summer reading program incorporated visits from the Zoo Mobile.

Join us for our next Pet Care University offered free of charge at Loving Hands Animal Clinic. Dr. Joanne Roesner will discuss Nutrition in Dogs and Cats on August 31st, 2019 from 3pm-5pm. Join our Facebook and Social Media pages for information about upcoming Pet Care University classes and events. ■

Dr. Joanne Roesner, with Charlie and Kurt.

Five money moves to make when you turn 50

By ALLISON NYE Contributing Writer

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e have a multitude of clients who are approaching or who have just turned 50, and many of them all have the same questions. When will they be able to retire? How should they handle transitioning their kids to college? Are they making the right financial moves? This month, we are breaking down five money moves you should make when you turn 50.

• Increase 401K contributions: Turning 50 means you can save more into your 401K. In 2019, anyone 50 or older can contribute an extra $6,000 to their 401K, for a total employee contribution of $25,000. This is a wonderful provision in the tax code that will allow you to defer more taxes and save more as you are nearing retirement.

• Analyze your mortgage: Whether your kids are nearing college age or are still in elementary school, start thinking about your housing situation over the long term.

Are you wanting to be in a good school

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district, or are you thinking about selling your home and moving to the beach?

Start thinking about how long you will be earning the income you are earning now.

If you take a 30-year mortgage today, ask yourself how you will pay that off when you are no longer making the same income you are making today.

Kids on payroll: Do not underestimate the emotional pull of helping your kids. Have a realistic conversation about what you can and will help with. How long will you pay for their mobile phone? Auto insurance?

Health insurance? These questions are especially helpful to determine your annual burn rate in retirement.

Consolidate: It’s time to start looking at the “stuff” you’ve accumulated over the past 30 years of your adult life and ask yourself what you really need. You can give away or sell some of your old things that you’ve been holding onto for way too long. It’s also common for adults to open many lines of credit, checking accounts and savings accounts. Assess your financial house and

•

HER MONEY

ask yourself if you should consolidate any of these accounts to make your overall financial life a little more simple.

Review your insurance: Especially longterm care insurance. The older you get, the more expensive the insurance will be, and with people living longer in retirement, it’s smart to assess how much insurance you should need if you ever need full-time care.

Reach out to us at oXYGenFinancial.net for a complimentary 50th birthday check-in.

Visit oXYGenFinancial.net with any questions about your 401K or how to make the most of your retirement! ■

Allison Nye, Wealth plan design specialist at oXYGen Financial. Co-host of “They Don’t Teach You This” podcast.

august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 29

Butterflies in the land of gold

OUTDOOR WOMAN

By STEVE HUDSON Contributing Writer

L

umpkin County, just north of here, is Georgia’s land of gold. I’ve had a lot of fun prospecting there and occasionally finding a bit of gold in the bottom of my pan.

But never, until now, have I had gold fly to me through the air.

This airborne gold comes not from some long-lost mine, but rather from the 800-square-foot glass conservatory that’s the centerpiece of the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm.

Located on Castleberry Bridge Road just west of the gold rush town of Auraria, the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm is the brainchild of Jo Ann Goldenburg. She is passionate about nature – but especially about butterflies.

How did Goldenburg get into gold-country butterflies?

“I wish I had a real good answer to that one,” she says. “I guess it was a hobby that just snowballed.”

As a child, Goldenburg raised plants to attract butterflies. She would search the plants for caterpillars to bring home, putting them in “anything I could find.” Then she would feed the caterpillars (“Caterpillars go through a lot of leaves,” she says.) and tend to them until the caterpillars formed pupae and adult butterflies eventually appeared.

Years later, and well into a career in Atlanta television, she realized that she still had that fondness for butterflies.

“Always in the back of my mind, I kind of had this idea for a butterfly garden,” she says.

A big butterfly garden.

And so one night, she sat down and put together a 17page plan outlining her vision.

“Then,” she says, “I put it aside and let it sit for a year to make sure I wasn’t crazy.”

Meanwhile, she had become interested in the Dahlonega area.

“Dahlonega had always been my getaway spot,” she says. She acquired 8 acres and then got to work. The result is the butterfly farm that you find there today. The farm opened June 1, and has been drawing a steady stream of visitors ever since.

Turning off Castleberry Bridge Road and into the farm’s gravel parking area, one of the first things you’ll see is the caterpillar habitat area off to your left.

30 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

“The plants there are messy,” she says, referring to a good many chewed-on leaves, “but that means that the caterpillar habitat is working.”

Ahead is the office and gift shop. And just beyond the gift shop is the highlight of it all: the butterfly conservatory itself.

Because butterflies typically live only two to three weeks, a steady stream of new residents is required. Where do the new butterflies come from? They’re hatched from pupae (acquired from growers in Florida) in the so-called containment room, located just off the gift shop. It takes about two weeks for new butterflies to emerge from the pupae, in a process known as “eclosing.” After emerging, the butterflies spend about 10 minutes pumping up their wings and then another four hours waiting for their wings to dry so they can fly. Then they’re transferred to the fully enclosed conservatory, where they fly free – and where visitors like you and me can enjoy one-on-one interaction with these colorful delegates from the insect world.

At any given time, Goldenburg says, there are about 200 adult butterflies flitting about in the warm air of the conservatory. The temperature is kept in the butterflyfriendly range of 86 to 90 degrees.

That’s a little on the warm side, but the scene is so captivating that you won’t mind at all as you wander along the winding pathway. It loops through lush plantings of nectar plants (where the butterflies go to drink nectar) and resting plants (where they alight to rest).

In the conservatory, butterflies seem to be everywhere, many of them fluttering through the air.

OUTDOOR WOMAN

One, a golden beauty about two inches across, lands on my ballpoint pen.

There we are – me with pen in hand while a butterfly perches comfortably on the barrel of the pen about two inches from my right thumb. It seems to be sizing me up.

“This will give me a great story to tell,” I say to myself, thinking how I might describe the encounter.

But then, in a flight (pardon me) of fancy, I find myself wondering what might happen if the tables were turned. What if I was the subject and the butterfly was doing the reporting? What sort of story might the butterfly tell about its encounter with me?

One of Goldenburg’s goals is make sure that the story the butterfly might report would be a good one – one of environmental awareness and responsibility. Her idea is to develop what she calls a “science and education center,” where people can experience nature up close, learning to appreciate and protect it in the process.

She goes on to share her thoughts about why butterflies make such a great starting point for developing such attitudes.

The magic of butterflies, she says, “is one of the first things we learn about nature,” and she

wants to capitalize on that to encourage a broader awareness and appreciation of nature in folks of all ages.

The butterfly on my pen, apparently satisfied, flicks its wings and flies away.

“That was neat,” I say to myself, ready for another upclose butterfly encounter.

I look down the path toward a cloud of butterflies, which seem to be hovering around two young ladies who turn out to be Ashlynn and Adyson, daughters of Melissa and Joseph Chapman. Like many other families, the Chapmans are regulars at the butterfly farm – and judging from the grins on the kids’ faces, the fun never fades.

“We actually got a season pass,” Melissa Chapman says. “We’ve already been here three times.”

The kids, for their part, are carrying “butterfly sticks,” small sponge-tipped sticks that have been dipped in nectar. Butterflies zone in on the nectar and land right on the sticks. The girls hold the sticks perfectly still and watch the butterfly as it enjoys what is presumably a tasty and refreshing snack.

“Would you like to try a butterfly stick?”

Goldenburg asks me. Of course. She hands one of the sponge-tipped sticks to me, and I slowly approach a resting butterfly.

“Just hold the stick up next to it,” she says.

I do, and the butterfly delicately steps from the plant to the stick. I slowly bring it closer — close enough to see every detail and especially the electric shimmery colors of its wings.

My own daughter, now grown and visiting us, is with me at the butterfly farm. She, too, is mesmerized by the dance of winged color that flutters around us.

“Dad,” she says, “you’ve got to bring the

grandkids here.”

I will. You can count on that, What’s ahead for the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm?

Goldenburg sees the farm as more than just a neat place to meet butterflies one-onone. She has described it as “a vision for a sustainable future … a future with clean air, fresh water and thriving vegetation. It combines a love for the environment with the science and research needed to create positive change for the community and for generations to come.”

She is smiling as she walks along the path in the conservatory, talking with visitors about butterflies and how they fit into the ecosystem as a whole. She shares the excitement every time a butterfly lands on a stick or on a child’s shoulder (or a writer’s ballpoint pen).

Once or twice, I catch Goldenburg looking thoughtfully out beyond the conservatory’s glass walls, out toward the rest of her 8 acres.

I wonder what she’s planning?

I can’t wait to find out.

The Dahlonega Butterfly Farm is located at 427 Castleberry Bridge Road, Dawsonville, GA. 30534. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Sunday. Adult admission (ages 13 and up) is $8, and children 12 and under are $5. Group and school tours, as well as very reasonable season passes, are also available.

For more information, call 706-867-9473 or visit dahlonegabutterfly.com.

Learn about the hiking trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Steve Hudson’s book Hiking the Hooch. august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 31

SHE's PUZZLED!

Answers page 34

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HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

HER HEALTH Helping people lead healthy and happy lives.

PAGES 33 - 39

Irregular cycles

DR. J. REYES

By DR. STACEY PEREIRA

M

any women experience irregular cycle patterns or irregular bleeding. There are a myriad of causes! You gotta get it checked out! Some women have this from onset of puberty while others may acquire it later in life. Women who are 18 years of age or older should have a baseline evaluation for their irregular cycles. Evaluation generally consists of some blood work to look at hormones and an ultrasound to look at potential structural causes of irregular bleeding. For women who are 35 years of age or older, it is important to also collect some uterine cells to make sure, however rare, that there is no cancerous cause to the bleeding.

Structural causes, for example uterine polyps are generally addressed by removal. Uterine polyps can be removed in office! It is a quick procedure done vaginally with no cuts and you are back to work the next day.

Hormonal causes are usually treated with oral low dose hormones to regulate the cycle.

For many women pills aren’t an option. Younger women who plan on having children might pursue other longer term local treatments such Intrauterine devices. Ladies who are done with children may consider an ablation. This is a short procedure again done in office, where the cells that make the uterine lining are burned. Ablations have excellent long term outcomes and only 5-10% of women are unhappy with the outcome and choose to pursue a hysterectomy afterwards.

Hysterectomies are almost always done laparoscopically - meaning with tiny cameras- and at Modern Ob GYN we use the most up to date approach with the DaVincii Robot. This ensures the safest and quickest hysterectomy for women who are good candidates.

Don't sit at home with your irregular cycles! It's important to get it checked out-- and as you can see there's a ton of different ways to get it taken care of, whichever way fits your needs best. ■

DR. I. REYES

DR. KIM

DR. NATU

DR. PEREIRA

DR. KENKEL

NURIA NELKIN, CNM

Johns Creek • Avalon/Alpharetta • Cumming KORTNEY ROGERS, CNM

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I will increased movement save money, resolution and have to include than not, the change in type more often or exercise and you are consuming. with an accompanying at least not food doesn’t come have to quantity of this goal; or feel as if you obtainable. plan to achieve Third, don’t of people laid out and Join a group one that is well rolls around 1st There do this alone.

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A beautiful smile can be yours too

By DR. DAVID REMALEY

E

veryone wants a smile makeover!

When you see all those beautiful smiles on the TV or in the movies, maybe you wonder if those perfect teeth are real. They are not.

Celebrities Teeth Before and After with Veneers and Crowns Most celebrities enhance their looks with cosmetic dentistry and they aim for the Hollywood smile! But DR. REMALEY which celebrity has the most shocking teeth makeover? These before and after pictures do not lie.

Some of them needed porcelain veneers, or dental implants or crowns.

Both treatments, cosmetic dentistry, and implants can be combined.

These celebrities before and after veneers picture gallery will show you the aesthetic improvement in celebrities looks. They changed their smile because they are reaching for success. A white smile can help bring better work opportunities, enhance your self-confidence, and improve your overall appearance See some celebrity makeovers below.

Roswell Dental Care was recently designated ”BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta by Appen Newspaper for 4 years. We have been serving and treating patients in Roswell and the North Atlanta area for over 30 years.

As your cosmetic and family dentist, Dr. Remaley gives your comfort and peace of mind top priority. We offer a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services for your family. He will thoroughly explain all your options during your private consultation. We will assure you feel confident in the solution you choose before beginning any treatment. For enhanced comfort during treatment we offer conscious sedation including FREE nitrous oxide for anxious patients. You can rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding on many levels. We offer a COMPLIMENTARY smile makeover consultation. Give our office a call at (470) 288-1152 to schedule your private smile consultation. ■

Jennifer Garner’s veneers look amazing. She had a subtle smile makeover.

Jennifer’s teeth are beautifully designed and cover all front view of the mouth.

Probably she had some gum contouring surgery as well. Which is very simple and can be performed during the preparation of the porcelain veneers.

Celine Dion’s bad teeth are part of the past. She had major dental work done, she is a very good example of an extreme mouth makeover.

She probably has some porcelain crowns instead of veneers. Her canines were probably the major challenge in this case. She looks amazing and younger.

We all know Katie Holmes smile is beautiful. She is super talented, unfortunately, her original teeth had to be changed if she wanted to be part of the Hollywood glamour.

She had an extreme smile makeover with probably a mix of porcelain crowns ad veneers and now she has a beautiful Hollywood smile.

With this combination of cosmetic dentistry of veneers and crowns, we can create the new smile you always wanted.

august2019 | northsidewoman.com | 35

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

“Just rub some black salve on it and call me in the morning” And other phrases you won’t hear your dermatologist tell you)

By DR. BRENT TAYLOR

Premier Dermatology and MOHS surgery of Atlanta

F

requently, I field questions from patients about alternative therapies for treating the skin and specifically skin cancer.

One of the most interesting treatments available is called “Black Salve” – interesting because it is not merely a placebo, but rather does have real effects. Black salve is also interesting because its history has intersected with that of allopathic medicine DR. TAYLOR in ways that are important to medicine’s most advanced skin cancer treatments. Black salve has been used for decades as a way to treat growths including warts, moles and even skin cancer (but dermatologists do not recommend using it for this purpose).

Black salve is a mixture of zinc chloride and Sanguinaria canadensis (aka Bloodroot), and sometimes Larrea tridentata (aka creosote bush or chaparral). But what are these three ingredients?

Zinc chloride is an escharotic and tissue fixative. An eschar is a piece of dead tissue that will eventually turn black and slough off the skin. When applied to the skin, zinc chloride causes cell death and chemically fixes tissue into a relatively hard dead mass or plaque -- an “eschar.” If applied to a skin cancer, zinc chloride may kill the cancer, but the zinc chloride may also damage surrounding tissue. Zinc chloride is nonspecific, damaging both unhealthy and healthy tissue that it contacts. Numerous case reports exist in the medical literature of people applying zinc chloride paste only to have a cancer come back worse or metastasize. Application of this paste has also been reported as causing severe scarring and deformity.

Bloodroot is a flowering plant indigenous to eastern North America. Bloodroot gets its name from a red sap that can be harvested

NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN

from the roots to dye baskets or cloth.

Bloodroot also produces an ammonium-based chemical that kills animal cells and that is an escharotic, similar to zinc chloride.

Creosote or chaparral is a desert plant whose extracts include certain compounds touted as having antioxidant properties.

Chaparral is listed in the FDA’s poisonous plant database where its entry states that it has caused liver injury and even fulminant hepatic failure requiring a liver transplant.

An interesting intersection of black salve with allopathic medicine is that Dr. Frederick Mohs used a compound combining zinc chloride, antimony trisulfide and bloodroot as a “chemopaste” that was instrumental in helping him to develop “Mohs surgery” – the skin cancer treatment that bears his name and is now the most effective, precise and advanced method for treating skin cancer.

Developed in the 1930s, Mohs’ chemopaste allowed him to harden and fix a skin cancer and a small area of surrounding skin. He then would remove that area, slice it thinly and examine it under the microscope to make sure that the margins were clear of tumor. When cancer was still present at an edge, he would remove more skin from the patient and again examine it under the microscope until all the cancer had been removed. The chemopaste was often applied the night before surgery, was very painful and caused substantial damage to surrounding tissue. Mohs’ method of using chemopaste and examining tissue under the microscope was imperfect, but it was certainly better than alternative methods of skin cancer removal available at the time.

By the late 1970s, machines that could freeze tissue and allow it to be cut with precision and without the use of this chemopaste became available, making the chemopaste obsolete. Modern Mohs surgery involves numbing a skin cancer and the surrounding skin with lidocaine, removing the visible tumor and a small margin, checking the edges for tumor and repeating this process until all microscopically visible cancer has been removed. Modern Mohs surgery results

in a 99% cure rate for most skin cancers, and suturing and repair techniques are so refined that deformity is extremely rare and in most cases minimal scarring occurs.

Black salve’s cousin “Mohs’ chemopaste” played an important role in the development of Mohs surgery. Patients inclined toward naturopathic remedies should not feel that choosing Mohs surgery over black salve is a rejection of their holistic worldview. Rather, modern medicine and evidence-guided physicians honor the natural world when we acknowledge the astounding number of modern treatments derived from nature and guide our patients toward therapies that offer the greatest chance to heal. Black salve should not be viewed as an alternative to Mohs surgery but rather as an important historical stepping stone to this incredibly effective surgical technique.

If you or a loved one has skin cancer, consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor is a board certified dermatologist, vein specialist, and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. He and his outstanding team take pride in providing personalized, caring and state-of-the-art treatment. ■

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It’s easy and FREE. Just give us a call! 770-442-3278

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Let's talk aging and bladder control W hile it is normal to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed discussing bladder issues such as incontinence, it is important to understand just how common these problems are for aging women.

The involuntary loss or leaking of urine is a common syndrome that affects at least 1 in 3 older women, according to the Journal of the American Medical DR. ANSARI Association (JAMA). Symptoms may range from minor issues such as slight bladder leaks to the need for the protection of an adult diaper to prevent the complete and sudden loss of bladder control.

Chief of Surgery for Emory University Hospital and Division Director for Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Gina Northington, MD, PhD informs her patients that while common, “Bladder leakage is NOT normal aging. There are often functional problems of the nerves and muscles within the pelvic floor that can be treated to improve bladder control.”

Sana Ansari, MD who treats patients at both Emory Johns Creek Hospital and Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital agrees, “No matter the severity of the urinary incontinence, if the incontinence is affecting your life and relationships in any way, then it’s time to take control and do something more about it.”

Knowing the various types of urinary incontinence can help you have a discussion with your doctor and ultimately identify the appropriate treatment plan for you: • Stress incontinence: leaking of urine when laughing, coughing, or lifting, which is usually caused by weakened pelvic muscles.

• Urgency incontinence: the sudden need to urinate that results in large amounts of urine leaking out before getting to the bathroom.

• Overflow incontinence: when urine leaks because the bladder has become overly full or doesn't empty all the way.

• Functional incontinence: the natural urge to urinate, but taking too long to get to the bathroom - this can be especially common for those living with arthritis or another type of physical disability.

• Mixed incontinence: having a combination of any of the above types of urinary incontinence – this is very common in aging and older women.

The Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery experts at Emory Women's Center at Findley provide advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options for women with urinary incontinence and overactive bladder. Because we offer our patients coordinated interdisciplinary care that includes primary care physicians, gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons we can help our patients or their caregivers have the confidence to address any bladder issues they may be confronting.

When planning your appointment with our urogynecologists here are some tips to help you make the most of your appointment: • Be prepared by having a list of the prescription drugs, over-thecounter medicines, vitamins you take, and a list of your past and current illnesses or injuries.

• Bring a caregiver, friend, or relative to go with you to the doctor. They can help bring up topics or questions you may forget to ask. These support persons can also remind you of things the health care provider said after you leave your appointment.

• Be candid. Your provider wants to know everything you're experiencing. Feel free to discuss your symptoms and how they are impacting your daily life.

38 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

Please make an appointment with one of our Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery providers to discuss your bladder treatment options today. Emory Women's Center has four convenient locations to serve you: Emory University Hospital/The Emory Clinic on Clifton Road, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Emory Saint Joseph's, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

Learn More.

To find out more about the Emory Women's Center Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery services call 404 – 778 – 3401. ■

Are you looking for a Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery center near you?

As part of Emory Healthcare, the largest and most comprehensive hospital system in Atlanta, Emory Women's Center offers our patients diagnostic and therapeutic options tailored to their specific pelvic floor needs. Women with incontinence, overactive bladder, and sexual dysfunction can meet with our team of experts at Emory Women’s Center and feel comforted in knowing that we take your issues seriously.

We offer coordinated interdisciplinary care that includes primary care physicians, gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons. We proudly offer providers with special expertise in chronic pelvic or bladder pain.

Make an appointment today to discuss your treatment options.

For Patient Appointments: 404-778-3401 Emory Johns Creek Hospital 6335 Hospital Pkwy, Physicians Building, 2nd Floor, Suite 210, Johns Creek, GA 30097

TO DO

August Events ALL MONTH

Alpharetta Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays through Oct. 26.

The Alpharetta Farmers Market features fruits, vegetables, natural meats, fresh flowers and herbs, as well as a variety of home goods. North and South Broad streets in Alpharetta. www.alpharetta.ga.us Alpharetta Food Truck Alley 5 – 9 p.m. Alpharetta’s Food Truck Alley on Thursday evenings offers a variety of six to eight rotating area food trucks in downtown Alpharetta. Enjoy live music with dinner to start the weekend early every Thursday through October. www.awesomealpharetta.com Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market 8 a.m. – noon. The Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market offers fresh, local farm, ranch and artisan foods direct from producers, and much more every Saturday from April through October. City Hall, 38 Hill St., Roswell. www.roswellfam.com Spotlight Artist: Debra K. Yaun Debra K. Yaun will be exhibiting her scratchboard art in August and September at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. All artwork is from the artist's own photos from her travels to U.S. nature centers, parks, zoos and Costa Rica, as well as on her own property in Georgia. www.debrayaun.com

AUGUST 3

Old Soldiers Day Parade 9:15 a.m. The city of Alpharetta and American Legion Post 201 will host the annual Old Soldiers Day Parade. The parade honors our country’s war veterans and recognizes their service to our country. There will be free hot dogs, drinks and activities. www.alpharetta.ga.us 40 | northsidewoman.com | august2019

Riverside Sounds concert series 7 – 9 p.m., first Saturday of each month through October. This month’s free concert will feature folk rock band Family and Friends. Food trucks will be on location for spectators to enjoy dinner while watching live music. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” Bring a picnic, along with lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening under the stars filled with great music, playground fun and a family movie. Food and drinks may be purchased at the concession stand. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

AUGUST 9

Movies at Newtown Park — ‘Lego Movie 2’ 7 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and relax as they watch the movie. No alcohol or pets. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children's activities, giveaways and music. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekga.gov

AUGUST 10

Home by Dark concert: Victoria Banks and Jesse Terry 7:30 p.m. Canadian Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year Victoria Banks and Americana singer-songwriter Jesse Terry will perform a free concert as part of a free summer concert series. Music fans are encouraged to bring a blanket and picnic on the lawn at Alpharetta’s Brooke Street Park, 2 Park Plaza. www.homebydark.com

Music at Twilight 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Enjoy live music at the corner of Milton Avenue and North Main Street in Alpharetta. The concert is free. This week’s concert features Americana and country-folk singers Swearingen and Kelli. www.awesomealpharetta.com Free Fitness in the Park: Zumba 9 – 10 a.m. There will be a free group exercise class with Roswell’s Fitness in the Park. All classes are weather-permitting and open to the public. Check the city of Roswell’s Facebook page for any cancellations. Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com Walk with a Doc 10 a.m. Walk with a Doc is a health program that brings doctors and patients together to walk. Every walk will feature a different health topic, each selected to provide information and the opportunity for walkers to ask questions one-on-one with the participating physician.

The walks start at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. www.walkwithadoc.org Slip-n-Slide Extravaganza 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join for the annual Slip-nSlide Extravaganza. Bring the whole family to enjoy this free event that will offer three different age-appropriate slides (150 feet, 100 feet, and 50 feet). Slides, food, music and fun.

Leita Thompson Park, 1200 Woodstock Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com Summer Sounds: Secret Agent 23 Skidoo 11 a.m. – noon. Grammy-winning hip-hop artist Secret Agent 23 Skidoo combines the excitement of hip-hop with the magical world of childhood. Positive themes of empowerment, love, imaginations set loose, hope, ambitions and dreams infuse his fun-filled performances.

See the show live at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. Tickets are $10 each. www.roswellgov.com Riverside Park free family movie — ‘SpiderMan: Into the Spider-Verse’ Movie begins at dark. This month’s movie is

AUGUST 11

Mustard Seed 5K 8 a.m. Proceeds from this 5K run/walk will support the Saint Brigid Mustard Seed Ministry, which is dedicated to supporting the work of Mustard Seed communities in Nicaragua serving abandoned children with disabilities and uplifting marginalized communities. There will be music, food, T-shirts and awards for top runners. 3835 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek. https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/ JohnsCreek/MustardSeed5K Atlanta Concert Band: ‘The Wonderful World of Disney’ 4 – 5:30 p.m. The Atlanta Concert Band returns to the Roswell Cultural Arts Center to perform, "The Wonderful World of Disney,” highlighting music from Disney. Everyone is invited to dress up as their favorite Disney characters.

Admission is free. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. www.atlantaconcertband.org

AUGUST 14

‘Francis Marion: The Swamp Fox’ 7 – 9 p.m. Barrington Hall hosts lectures on the Civil War and other areas of interest to local residents. This week’s lecture will be on “Francis Marion: The Swamp Fox” by Robert C. Jones. There is a $5 suggested donation. Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

AUGUST 15

Alive in Roswell 5 – 9 p.m. Head to Canton Street in downtown Roswell for one of the best street parties in the metro Atlanta area. Live music, food, displays and shopping make this a fun and familyfriendly event. The event is free, with trolleys moving between Canton Street and Roswell City Hall. www.aliveinroswell.com

AUGUST 16

Moonlight, Music and Martinis 7:30 – 10 p.m. Join for live music, a full moon, martinis and heavy hors d'oeuvres in Bulloch Hall's garden on the hill, 180 Bulloch Ave, Roswell. Reservations are $40 per person and include one drink ticket. www.bullochhall.org

AUGUST 17

Free Fitness in the Park: Bootcamp 9 – 10 a.m. There will be a free group exercise class with Roswell’s Fitness in the Park. All classes are weather-permitting and open to the public. Check the city of Roswell’s Facebook page for any cancellations. Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com Brooke Street Park Yoga 9 a.m. Join for Brooke Street Park yoga behind Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza every Saturday. These classes are free, for all levels and taught by Lift Yoga teachers. Bring a bottle of water and a mat. www.alpharetta.ga.us

AUGUST 19

Taste of Johns Creek 4 – 9 p.m. Sample more than 20 local restaurants from $1 to $4 at the Taste of Johns Creek. There will be an Art Walk. Enjoy live music, local entertainment, kids’ activities and some of the best food the Johns Creek area has to offer at this family-friendly event. Chattahoochee High School, 5230 Taylor Road, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekga.gov

AUGUST 21

‘Camp Oglethorpe’ 7 – 9 p.m. Barrington Hall hosts lectures on the Civil War and other areas of interest to local residents. This week’s lecture will be on “Camp Oglethorpe: Macon's Unknown Civil War Prisoner of War Camp, 1862-1864” by Stephen Hoy. There is a $5 suggested donation.

Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

AUGUST 22

Bulloch Hall: Behind the Ropes Tour 2 p.m. Enjoy a peek behind the ropes at Bulloch Hall, while learning many intriguing facts

Publisher's Pick PURPLE PANSIES 10TH ANNUAL GALA to benefit pancreatic cancer research Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019 Freemanville Estate in Milton, GA The gala will include a cocktail hour, multi-course dinner with wine pairings prepared by chef Antonio Fundora, entertainment, an open bar throughout the evening and a silent and live auction.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW gala.purplepansies.org

about the house, grounds and family. Learn about the construction of the house in 1839 and view architectural details unique to the period.

Admission is $10. Free for members. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. www.bullochhall.org Alpharetta Mayor’s Corporate Challenge 5K and Block Party 5 p.m. The annual Mayor’s Corporate Challenge will begin and end across from City Hall in downtown Alpharetta. Food trucks and live music begin at 5 p.m., followed by a free kids’ run at 6:30 p.m. and the 5K run at 7 p.m. Awards will be given at 8 p.m. $30 registration. Funds will go to local and international charities supported by Alpharetta Rotary. www.mayorschallenge.com

AUGUST 23

Music at Twilight 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Enjoy live music at the corner of Milton Avenue and North Main Street in Alpharetta. The concert is free. This week’s concert features Southern Gothic and Americana singer-songwriter Sylvia Rose Novak. www.awesomealpharetta.com

AUGUST 24

Free Fitness in the Park: Yoga 9 – 10 a.m. There will be a free group exercise class with Roswell’s Fitness in the Park. All classes are weather-permitting and open to the public. Check the city of Roswell’s Facebook page for any cancellations. Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

TO DO Home by Dark concert — Beth Wood and Nathan Angelo 7:30 p.m. Billboard Songwriting Award winner Beth Wood and Nathan Angelo will perform a free concert as part of a free summer concert series. Music fans are encouraged to bring a blanket and picnic on the lawn at Alpharetta’s Brooke Street Park, 2 Park Plaza. www.homebydark.com

AUGUST 25

Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’ 2 – 4 p.m. Taste more than 100 flavors of homemade ice cream, dive into ice-cream eating contests, enjoy live music and face painting and let the kids work off their energy in the Kids’ Korner. Proceeds benefit the Drake House, emergency housing for women and children in crisis in North Fulton. $6 per person or $25 per family, up to five. Roswell Town Square, 610 Atlanta St., Roswell. www.missmarysicecream.org

AUGUST 31

Alpharetta Art in the Park 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This monthly outdoor market through Sept. 28 features local artists creating handcrafted work, including pottery, woodwork, metal work, jewelry, clothing and more. Main Street and Milton Avenue in Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com

September Events

SEPTEMBER 10

Suicide, A Community Conversation Townhall 6 – 8 p.m. The city of Milton, in partnership with the Summit Counseling Center, is hosting a community conversation at Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, to discuss suicide prevention. This community conversation will include an expert panel of parents, counselors, medical experts and youth leaders. www.cityofmiltonga.us

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CRUISE vs. RESORT: WHICH IS BETTER?

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Both of these vacations roll the cost of food, activities and entertainment into one easy price, making it easy to budget for your trip without a lot of hidden costs; they also shift the burden of planning every detail away from the family vacation planner. Both vacations offer a variety of family-focused activities exclusively for children in kids’ clubs, for parents in adults-only spaces, and for families to enjoy together. For these reasons, both cruises and all-inclusive resorts are ideal options for families.

>>> Cruising

Unlike family vacations that feel like a lot of work in the end, a family cruise can actually feel restful for parents, while also providing the fun and excitement that kids desire.

Cruises are a great way to explore multiple destinations as a family without the hassle of unpacking, repacking and transporting everyone from city to city. They also are a great option for multi-generational families, with plenty of options for all ages. The most family-friendly cruise lines schedule family-focused activities throughout the trip for families to enjoy together.

Some cruise lines offer open dining, allowing kids and parents to eat together for the first part of dinner, followed by the kids’ club staff whisking the kids away just as they are starting to get antsy, allowing parents to enjoy the rest of their meal in blissful peace.

Cons Crowds: The biggest drawback of a cruise (as opposed to an all-inclusive resort or other type of vacation) is that you will generally be dealing with big crowds, particularly during the most popular times of year for family travel: school breaks, holidays and summer vacation.

>>> All-Inclusive Resort

All-inclusive resort vacations are ideal for families in many of the same ways cruises are. Daycare is included; you typically have your choice of both casual and elegant restaurants; and even better news for parents: your drinks are included!

The biggest advantage of an all-inclusive resort compared to a cruise ship will be the size of your room. Resort rooms are at minimum as large as a standard hotel room (double the size of an interior cruise cabin), with villa and suite options that offer private pools, verandas and other features. These are practically unheard of on cruise ships, except for the highest price suites.

Cons Though it varies based on the location, resort and time of year, you will generally pay more for an all-inclusive resort versus a cruise. Though there are some all-inclusives in the United States, most are located in Mexico, the Caribbean and throughout Europe, so you will also need to factor in the cost of getting to your destination, as opposed to cruises, which leave from various U.S. ports. Also, families who crave a lot of variety may not be satisfied by staying put at a resort, where you’re usually somewhat insulated from the outside culture.

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If you have a history of heart disease or heart attacks in your family, please take a moment to visit us online and take a risk assessment or schedule a heart screening.

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