Lifestyles Answer Book 2014

lifestyles 2014

Answer Book™

BEST OF THE BEST YOU VOTED, WE REVEAL

from Appen Media Group

LIFE’S DESIGN

An inside look with Home Fashion Interiors

EAT RIGHT (HERE) UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCES NEAR YOU

2 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

See Better. Live Better.

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1995 Mall of GA Blvd Suite A Buford, GA 30519

Call for a consultation 678-688-4575 Learn more at www.MilanEyeCenter.com Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 3

Letter from the publisher Greetings and welcome to our second edition of our “Lifestyles Answer Book” which provides a local guide to a wide array of arts and entertainment / leisure activities in and around North Atlanta and outside the region. Also included is this edition are the results of our “2014 Best of North Fulton / South Forsyth”. Over 2400 of our readers voted in our best of so use the list to find the best stores and services and “shop local”!

We now publish four community guide Answer Books – Lifestyles, Education, Medical, and Relocation. We do one per quarter and all are invaluable resources packed with local information that you can use.

Now that we are headed into another period of explosive growth with new businesses, new residents, and new places to go so these Answer Books will be all the more useful and valuable.

Our job at Appen Media is to keep you connected whether that is via our print products or our online ones.

From our four weekly newspapers, our monthly Northside Woman and Business Post, to our online editions and including the apps for both Google and Android (download by searching for “Appen News Stand”) we are here for you.

Our combination of print and online products offer the best local marketing available anywhere and we pride ourselves in paying attention to you and listening. Just give us a call today at 770-442-3278 and you will be answered – usually before the second ring – by a human! We’re here for our community – in person. Promise.

Ray Appen, Publisher, Appen Media Group

lifestyles Answer Book™ PUBL I S HE R S

Ray & Christina Appen E D I TO R I AL

Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Pascale Chambers Jonathan Copsey Will Houp Hatcher Hurd Kathleen Sturgeon Katie VanBrackle Caitlin Wagenseil PRO D UC TI O N

David Brown Arthur J. McNaughton Suzanne Pacey

Inside

ADV E R TI S I N G

FEATURES 6

Eat Right (Here)

12

Think Local, Drink Local

Unique dining experiences near you Microbreweries and brewpubs of North Fulton and South Forsyth

26

With further ado

28

Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth 2014

You voted, we reveal

44

Service Directory

14 From the Farm, To Your Table Discover your local farmers markets

16

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The designers at Home Fashion Interiors know what it takes to live and design “the” lifestyle, taking home Best Furniture and Best Interior Designer during our Best of North Fulton and South Forsyth voting. Pictured from left are designers Maureen Harvey, Joy Howell, Celesa Tuning, Mark Sunderland and Sandy Fogarty.

(Photo by Abby Breaux)

Find out who to call

EDITORIAL 12

Page 23

Avalon Celebrates Opening

18 21

Arts Alliance of Johns Creek Says Art Matters

Goal to make city center of art, music, dance, theater

4 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Top spots inside the perimeter

Get On The Greenway

North Fulton and South Forsyth best bike, walking and hiking path

On With The Show Sarah Chandler brings lifelong love of theater to Roswell Cultural Arts Center

Discover ATL

34

Sponsored Section

38

Park It

40

Take a look at Gibbs Gardens

41

Weekend Getaway

42

The Power of Dance

Content provided from our advertisers

Find out the best parks in North Fulton and South Forsythy

Delightful Daytrip

Take time to unplug and getaway

Ofelia de La Valette tells her story

46

Mark Your Calendar

You won’t want to miss these events

Hans Appen Abby Breaux Mike Dorman Wendy Goddard Susan Hernandez Julia Johnson June Meltzer Becky Nelson Jade Rodgers Paige Roman advertising@appenmediagroup.com

To Advertise In The 2015 Answer Book Call: (770) 442-3278 Reproduction of the content of the Answer Book— including all maps— is prohibited without expressed written permission. The Answer Book is a trademarked title. All efforts have been made to verify content. Appen Media Group publishes the Education Answer Book, the Relocation Answer Book, the Medical Answer Book and the Lifestyles Answer Book.

Online versions are accessible on NorthFulton.com at the bottom of the home page.

Contact us at 770-442-3278.

319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 northfulton.com Email additions/corrections for the next edition to news@appenmediagroup.com

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Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 5

EAT RIGHT (HERE) Unique dining experiences near you

Utopia JOHNS CREEK 10305 Medlock Bridge Road, utopiainjc.com Mon. – Fri., 4 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Sat., 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.

Sun., 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.

The newest nightspot in Johns Creek oozes understated cool. Owner Jamal Sahri is a restaurateur noted in New York not only for his eateries but as an artist of renown as well.

The food is superior with a wide selection and an ambiance that is unique says restaurant operator Joe Gonzalez.

“We’re your local bar with food that is unique,” Gonzalez said. “This is not typical bar food.”

Utopia has a fine selection of craft beers as well as top brand bourbons and scotches, like Balvenie 12 Year Double Wood.

Ruth’s Chris ALPHARETTA, 11655 Haynes Bridge Road, ruthschris.net, Opening Fall of 2014 The new location, (previously in Sandy Springs), sits on just over 2 acres of land in an 18,000-square-foot location in the former Rainwater restaurant location, off Rainwater Drive and not far from the Haynes Bridge Road exit of Ga. 400.

and legendary hospitality, Sizzling Steaks Concepts’ franchise partners Mark Oswald, Nancy Oswald, Jim Brooks and Phil Brooks are dedicated to honoring the vision and traditions set forth by Ruth’s Chris Steak House founder, Ruth Fertel.

The new restaurant will have flexible rooms that can serve between 10 and 200 diners as the need requires.

Pair one of their steaks with a vintage inspired cockatails, like the Manhattan Eastside: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Domaine de Canton Ginger liqueur, house-made lemon sour and Luxardo cherries.

Featuring custom-aged, USDA prime steaks, served with the signature sizzle

PURE taqueria ALPHARETTA, 103 Roswell Street; ROSWELL, 1143 Alpharetta Street; INMAN PARK, 300 N. Highland Avenue, Atlanta, puretaqueria.com Chris Sedgwick and Michele Sedgwick, long time Alpharetta residents and successful Atlanta restaurateurs, were looking for a new way to express their style and their love of food.

They found the inspiration they were seeking with their take on an authentic Mexican taqueria.

Hip, loud, sophisticated and fun, PURE taqueria has been serving up inspired cuisine and margaritas that pack a wallop since its 2005 opening in Atlanta, Georgia.

6 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

The original PURE opened in Alpharetta, Georgia at the site of an abandoned 1920’s era Pure Fuel Oil station.

The small stone building on the corner (now used for storage) was part of the original gas station, but the main restaurant was built from scratch, with Chris and Michele designing, decorating and doing much of the construction themselves.

PURE offers everything from Sopa del Dia to fajitas and even carne a la parrilla.

Visit facebook.com/utopiabarjc for food and drink specials and updates on live music.

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Information for Your Guests - We offer Alpharetta’s Official Visitors Guide, Insider’s Guide to Shopping and Dining, What to Do in Alpharetta and maps for your guests staying in our hotels, along with customized itineraries and insider tips.

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Think Alpharetta first for your wedding, reunion, meeting or sports event.

Take advantage of the free planning resources of the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau including free consultation on venues, service providers, fields and facilities, hotels and more.

Ask for our free event planning guide.

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VICES

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 7

La Casa Italian Grill ALPHARETTA, 37 Old Roswell Street, lacasaitaliangrill.com Mon. – Fri., Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Dinner 5 – 9 p.m.

Sat., 5 – 10 p.m.; Sun., 5 – 9 p.m.

Bringing three generations of experience, Pasquale Cardamuro has been serving Italian food in Georgia for 30 years. He began in Gwinnett Mall serving Pizza & Pasta and then started his dream in 1997, when he opened

Cardamuro’s Italian Café in Sugar Hill.

Pasquale continues his tradition and dreams with La Casa Italian Grill in historic Alpharetta. La Casa offers a touch of Italy in a wonderful historic house which has been transformed into a comfortable, cozy atmosphere with a large heated outdoor deck for your dining pleasures.

La Casa will be offering homemade dishes prepared with knowledge and

EAT RIGHT (HERE)

passion for perfection and creativity.

Pasquale is committed to serving only the finest foods, made with the freshest ingredients, with all dishes crafted from scratch, and all sauces, breads and desserts made in house.

Pasquale has created the perfect combination of authentic Italian recipes and artfully created meals prepared with passion.

Why not stop in for lunch any weekday, or enjoy an authentic Italian dinner with a classic martini made with Grey Goose or Hendrick’s Gin.

Little Alley Steak ROSWELL, 955 Canton Street, vfhfoodtradinggroup.com Mon. – Fri., Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Dinner 5 – 9 p.m.

Sat., 5 – 10 p.m.; Sun., 5 – 9 p.m.

There is nothing little about Little Alley Steak in Roswell. With a relaxed, 1920’s era-inspired space, Little Alley Steak sets the perfect scene as an upscale, New York butcher-tinged steak house that rivals the likes of Peter Luger’s in New York or Bern’s in Tampa.

The menu boasts a top-notch charcuterie program, a full decanting service with an impressive wine list, a vast bourbon collection and original cuts of meat from renowned Chicago butcher, Meats by Linz.

Set in a former antique shop, Little Alley Steak is designed to evoke the feeling of classic steakhouses and butcher shops.

Feel like stepping your night up a notch? Choose a whiskey from their seemingly endless list, like the Crown Royal Extra Rare Red.

Mestizo CUMMING, 3050 Keith Bridge Road, mymestizo.com Mon., Closed; Tues. – Fri., - 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Sat., 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Breakfast on weekend 8 a.m. – Noon) Area residents rave about the fresh, authentic and simple food. Reviewers on social media sites say they want more locations; say they enjoy “huge portions” and friendly “wonderful” staff.

Twin sisters Mildred and Alicia Retana run the family-owned operation they started five years ago with their brother, Angel.

Mestizo’s concept is also about picking out the best quality food for customers.

Once a week, the sisters go to a farmers’ market south of Atlanta to hand

8 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

select fresh ingredients to use in the restaurant.

The twins complement each other; while Alicia is more comfortable in the front of the house, Mildred likes the kitchen. That’s how some customers can tell them apart.

“I love the fact that people come and talk,” Alicia said. “I think that if you don’t take good care of people, they will never come back. We take care of the place as if it’s our home…We put our heart and effort here.”

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EAT RIGHT (HERE)

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Honorable Mention General Excellence

CUMMING, 365 Peachtree Parkway, normanslanding.com Mon. – Fri., 11:15 a.m. – Close; Sat. – Sun., 11:30 a.m. – Close Over the years, Norman’s Landing has become a staple of the neighborhood.

“Our regulars were a big help during the recession. They continued to come in, even during the tough times,” said owner Bill Norman. “We are family, the employees here and the customers.”

Norman’s Landing always gives police and firefighters half-priced meals.

We’ll help you

FIND IT ALL!

tours and

With 44 years in the restaurant business and no plan on slowing down, Norman says he will keep his restaurant running as long as he can.

“Norman’s Landing will continue to be a good neighbor to the Forsyth community for many years to come,” Norman said. “Great service, great food and a great attitude is why the restaurant continues to thrive.”

northside woman’s 2012 awards from the Association of Free Community Papers Affordable full color advertising rates. Over 18,000 copies are homedelivered each month. Call (770)442-3278 for advertising information, and see current editions on northfulton.com

Thank You for Voting us the Best

attractions Restaurants

EVENTS and happenings

GET-AWAYS

girlfriends guys or couples

MEETINGS Weddings or Family Occasions

OVERNIGHT Accommodations

We make it easy!

800-776-7935 www.visitroswellga.com

Pinot’s Palette – Johns Creek 11720 Medlock Bridge Rd, Ste 175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 JohnsCreek@PinotsPalette.com

770-783-1783

PinotsPalette.com/Johns Creek Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 9

EAT RIGHT (HERE)

Lunches that will cause you to linger.

Dinners that you can’t stop thinking about.

Desserts that will blow your mind.

Join us for lunch, dinner and dessert.

We promise you’ll taste the love...

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The Vortex ALPINE BAKERY & TRATTORIA Taste the Love

MIDTOWN - ATLANTA, 878 Peachtree Street. NE Mon. – Thur., 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. – 3 a.m.

Sun., 11 a.m. – Midnight LITTLE 5 POINTS - ATLANTA, 438 Moreland Avenue Sun. – Thur., 11 a.m. – Midnight; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.

For over 20 years, The Vortex has been an institution in Atlanta.

The unique burger joint has two locations in Midtown and Little 5 points.

12315 CRABAPPLE ROAD | ALPHARETTA | WWW.ALPINEBAKERYANDTRATTORIA.COM | 770.410.9883

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The Vortex has been honored with “Best Burger” awards by a multitude of local and national publications from the day it opened.

Additional accolades followed over the years, including awards for “Best Beer Selection,” “Best Neighborhood Bar,” “Best Overall Liquor Selection in Atlanta,” “Best Bar Food,” “Best Veggie Burger,” and “One of the Top 50 Restaurants in Atlanta.”

Not only are the burgers rated the best in Atlanta, but they also range in toppings in names. Some of the more unique burgers include the Holy Guacamole, Ragin’ Cajun, Yokohama Mama and the Triple Coronary Bypass burgers, (see the entire menu at thevortexbarandgrill.com).

Both locations also feature an Amber Ale titled Laughing Skull, brewed by Atlanta’s own Red Brick Brewing Company and features the iconic “Laughing Skull” logo.

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10 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

The Vortex isn’t for everyone. You must be 18 years or older to enter and need to show your ID at the door. The restaurant also allows smoking inside, so if you want a smoke free experience this isn’t the place for you.

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Antico Pizza

Let Us Spoil You

ATLANTA, 1093 Hemphill Ave NW Mon. – Sat., 11:30 a.m. – “Till out of dough”; Sun., Closed

Daily Specials

AVALON, ALPHARETTA, 2200 Avalon Blvd Mon. – Thur., 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Fri. – Sat., 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Sun. 2:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Great Lobster Rolls (served daily)

The original Antico, located in owner Giovanni Di Palma’s Little Italia neighborhood, is an Atlanta landmark that has been honored with a long list of accolades, including the highest score in Zagat’s first-ever pizza survey of “Best Pizza in 23 U.S. Cities” – beating out New York City; a Zagat Atlanta food score of 28 – making it the highest scored restaurant in the city. Check out their website, littleitalia.com

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Our students know how to grow turnips, groom ponies, lead class discussions, write knock-out research papers, and explain how math was used in the development of ancient civilizations. They ask great questions, climb trees, and know what it means to be academic risk-takers.

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Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 11

THINK LOCAL, DRINK LOCAL The world of craft beer is exploding, it seems. Alcohol laws

sprouted up allover North Fulton and South Forsyth including

are being relaxed and new businesses are launching to

four favorites; Hop Alley, Jekyll Brewery, Cherry Street

take advantage of that. Growler stores and breweries have

Brewing Company and 5 Seasons Brewing.

Hop Alley Alpharetta 25 South Main St. hopalleybrew.com Located in downtown Alpharetta, Hop Alley is part restaurant, part brewery and in total an all around good time.

Steel vats line the walls of the restaurant, the industrial side is contrasted by the warm wooden tones of the seating and bar areas.

The beers brewed inhouse rotate on a fairly regular basis depending on the season and owner/ brewmaster Brandon Hintz’s tastes.

Hop Alley also offers draught beers brewed in the area as well as around the world as well as infused-liquor cocktails.

Jekyll Brewery Alpharetta 2855 Marconi Dr. jekyllbrewing.com An industrial park is not where most would think to find a brewery, but in an unassuming line of office space is where one-ofa-kind Jekyll Brewery is located.

Originally started thanks in part to over $30,000 raised on Kickstarter, Jekyll offers beer like the Hop Dang Diggity IPA and an American Brown Ale titled Cooter Brown.

Visit the taproom Tues. – Fri. 5 – 9 p.m., Sat. 1 – 9 p.m. $12 will get you a tasting glass, a tour and a chance to kick back in the taproom playing unlimited free pinball.

12 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Cherry Street Brewing Company Cumming 5810 Bond St. cherrystreetbrewing. com Based in Vickery Village of Cumming, Cherry Steet has a partnership with Rick Tanner’s Grille & Bar, where their beer is available to be purchased and best of all, drank.

Cherry Street features a rotating tap, so the beers change month to month.

Currently, the brew business is overflowing, spilling over to next door and the brewery plans to open a Tap Room in late fall, 2014. With more space, Cherry Street hopes to up production by 50%.

5 Seasons Brewing Alpharetta 3655 Old Milton Pkwy.

5seasonsbrewing.com 5 Seasons Brewing is commited to everything local. Not only do they brew it at one of their three locations, but most of what goes into the beer is from local farms.

The Alpharetta location has been around for about five years, and is the second of the three locations.

Similar to other breweries in the area, 5 Seasons offers a rotating beer list, with a special cask being tapped every Thursday.

Want to take their beer home?

No problem. 5 Seasons offers growlers for easy portability.

Adventures in homebrewing Office beer-guru Jonathan Copsey tells the tale of his first home-brew.

With the explosion in craft brew beers in recent years, I have many friends who have become great at home brewing. Any type of beer, from ales to lagers to wheat beers are attempted and sometimes turn out pretty well.

So it was with lots of friendly support and enthusiasm that I began my own home brew.

Being a fan of darker beers, my first attempt was for an amber ale. I am told this is the easiest to try. About a month and a half ago I spent a weekend preparing my kitchen for some messy brewing and getting down to business. I boiled my hops and malt and created about five gallons of beer. Sanitizing the kitchen and utensils was tricky but I think I did it well enough. I poured all five gallons of would-be beer into a bucket to ferment and then stepped back for three weeks.

I found this to be the most difficult part. It has to sit and ferment, letting yeast and whatnot do it’s stuff. Unfortunately, I am one of those cooks who likes to constantly stir the broth; If I’m not being active, I’m not really cooking, right?

That’s the biggest thing I learned about brewing beer – it’s not cooking. It’s chemistry.

After three weeks I bottled the stuff (which now smelled like beer – a good sign!) and again let it sit.

Finally, after about five weeks, by brew was ready to be tasted. I called it “First Draft,” which all my friends assured me was totally a good name and not at all a horrible pun for an editor to use. I was surprised. It was beer. It was amber. It had taste that was not bad at all.

In the immortal words of Bud Light (which will be the only time I will ever mention them), it was “drinkable.”

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FROM THE FARM, TO YOUR TABLE Discover your local farmers market

By MARLA PRINCE In an effort to improve their diets, many Americans are rediscovering local farmers markets, which give consumers access to locally grown, farm-fresh produce that is often organically grown.

Locally grown offers many benefits to the consumer including fresher food, seasonal food, food that is transported fewer miles, food that has less refrigeration and food that has spent less time in storage. Locally grown also means food that isn’t loaded with toxic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, fungicides or synthetic hormones.

But farmers markets don’t just help Americans eat healthier, they also help communities lower their carbon footprint since the food is not transported as far as when it is shipped to grocery stores. Locally grown food also helps the economy by helping farmers stay in business.

Farmers markets can also reflect local culture by selling items other than fruits and vegetables. At some markets, you might find locally raised honey, grass-fed meat, apple cider, free-range eggs, home-baked goods and even arts and crafts.

A visit to your farmers market is also a fun family outing where you can chat with farmers, gardeners, bakers, bee-keepers and soap-makers.

Northside residents have their pick of weekend farmers markets including the following:

Featured items: – 12:30 p.m. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek.

Organic and/or sustainable foods and produce, demonstrations, children’s activities. johnscreekga.gov

ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET

BROOKWOOD FARMERS MARKET

Large Variety of Sugar Free Jam

Every Friday through October; 4 – 7 p.m. Caney Creek Preserve, 2755 Caney Road, Cumming. Locally grown produce, meat, eggs, bread, flowers, soaps and more. Live music and kids’ activities. Started in 2010 by a local mom. brookwoodfarmersmarket.com

Saturdays through Sept. 27; 8 a.m. – noon, Roswell City Hall parking lot, 38 Hill Street, Roswell. Fruits and veggies, herbs, flowers and plants, organic compost, artisan cheeses, organic herbal soaps. roswellfam.com

Wednesdays and Saturdays through September 7; 6:30 a.m. – noon. Cumming Fairgrounds parking lot, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. Fresh flowers, veggies, baked goods and more. cummingfair.net

14 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Large & Small Melons

Saturdays through Oct. 12; 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., the corner of Old Canton Street and Milton Avenue, Alpharetta. Fruits, veggies, natural meats, fresh flowers, herbs, homemade desserts, breads, sauces, jellies and soaps and local raw honey. alpharettafarmersmarket.com

CUMMING FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays through Sept. 7; 8:30 a.m.

770-377-7334 Open Mon. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sun. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

2152 Peachtree Parkway (1/2 mile North of Home Depot & Target) Don’s Farmers Market is open year round and features fresh fruits, jams, produce and more. Visit their facebook page facebook. com/donsmarket.

RIVERSIDE FARMERS MARKET (ROSWELL)

JOHNS CREEK FARMERS MARKET

Don’s Farmers Market

Marla Prince has worked in the environmental industry for over 20 years and was green before green was cool.

Squash

Roll Amish Butter (Cream with Salt)

Community gardens – a place to grow together

I

t is an incredible experience to plant your first seed, watch it sprout and grow and then be able to harvest and eat the fruits of your labor.

Many community gardens follow organic practices (not using pesticides, chemicals or GMO seeds).

They are a great place to learn about these methods and gain an understanding of why these practices are so important.

If you are already a gardener, you probably know that it can be a solitary pursuit and at times you may find yourself seeking fellow gardeners to share your challenges and successes with. Community gardens can be a great place to meet others with similar interests.

It is also a great place to learn about gardening, and experienced gardeners are more than happy to share their knowledge with new gardeners.

Many gardens organize activities such as workdays, charity events and social gatherings.

They are also an important place for children to learn about gardening.

At the Alpharetta Community Garden, a children’s demonstration garden plot was created with this in mind.

Alice Wood, who co-manages the garden, created this interactive area where kids can learn about vegetables and other things you may find in a garden.

There are signs that ask the kids to find things and pick things.

In this way, kids learn their way around a garden and most importantly where their food comes from.

To learn more about community gardens in your area, visit: https://communitygarden.org/.

–Pascale Chambers

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Roswell, GA 30075 678-682-3551 Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 15

ON WITH THE SHOW Sarah Chandler brings lifelong love of theater to Roswell Cultural Arts Center

By KATIE VanBRACKLE Just across a shady footbridge from Roswell City Hall lies the Roswell Cultural Arts Center (CAC), a 600seat house offering a comfortable and intimate theater experience for local residents. Every seat is a good seat, and guests are often able to chat with artists after the show.

The Roswell facility has long been the venue of choice for local dance companies, symphonies and the Georgia Ensemble Theatre, which produces five outstanding stage shows each year.

Lately, the CAC has expanded beyond its role as a rental house to offer more original productions such as the LIVE! in Roswell concert and performing arts series (roswellpresents.com), now in its second year.

Blazing the trail in this exciting endeavor is the CAC’s new coordinator, Sarah Chandler, who brings to her position a lifelong love of theater and an extensive background in the performing arts.

Chandler, who grew up in Macon, Ga., jokes that her own stage debut was made at the tender age of 6, as a farmer in the kindergarten production of “Which Came First – the Chicken or the Egg?” But it was a high school English professor who first inspired her to take her theatrical talent seriously, after praising her emotional reading of a literary monologue.

Chandler’s love of the theater world was cemented when she attended a musical based on the songs of 1970s performer Harry Chapin.

“I found myself weeping during ‘Mr. Tanner,’ and it was the first time that I had that moment of…WOW,” she said. “Theater can change your life and make you feel so many things.”

Chandler attended Wesleyan College in Macon where she worked on every play produced by the theater department for four years. She knew that she had found what she wanted to do with her life.

By the time she traveled to Virginia Tech to receive her graduate degree in theater management, she had made the decision to focus her energies behind the stage rather that upon it.

“My mother envisioned me acting on Broadway, and I’ll admit that was a fleeting dream of mine for a time at

16 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Wesleyan, but at some point, I realized that my true talents were in the creative process and technical side of theater,” she recalled.

“It really helped, though, to have experienced the churning stomach and sweaty palms that come with stage acting. It helped me to become an even better theater creator.”

Chandler spent 11 years working nationally and internationally in stage management, most recently in Philadelphia, a city she describes as hugely supportive of the arts.

But she felt the strong need to return home to the South, encouraged especially by her beloved grandmother from Marietta who regularly sent newspaper clippings announcing theater opportunities in the metro Atlanta area, with notes attached saying, “You could do this!”

When the Roswell Cultural Arts Center position became available, Chandler knew it was the right fit.

“This is a great time to be in Roswell,” she said. “This area is exploding with new businesses, a burgeoning arts scene and youthful energy.”

G. Morgan Timmis, manager of historic and cultural affairs for the city of Roswell, was pleased to find such a highly qualified candidate to manage the CAC. “Sarah brings great experience and innovative ideas for how to enhance everything about the center,” Timmis said. “I had applicants from across the country for this position. All three of the

short-list candidates were from out of state, which I feel is a positive statement about our facility – what we’ve been doing and have the potential to do going forward.”

Chandler is already exploring ways for the CAC to be more active in the community, including partnering with local businesses for “Locals Only” events like open mic nights, readings and trivia nights.

She also hopes to connect with other arts groups in metro Atlanta with the goal of making the CAC “a hub and an incubator for the arts in North Fulton.”

“There are so many great things going on in the arts all over metro Atlanta, and we are lucky to have quality entertainment so close to home. We want to continue to enhance the live/ work/play possibilities in Roswell,” she said.

Chandler is especially excited about the current LIVE! in Roswell concert and performing arts series, kicked off in October 2013 by American Idol alum Crystal Bowersox, followed by Sixpence None the Richer in December.

Masters of Soul, an energetic Motown cover group will perform in February – a show complete with costumes and acting that Chandler calls “a whole lot of fun.” Singer-songwriter and pianist Spencer Day will croon Mel Tormestyle standards in May, and June will see the return of the ever-popular Second City improv comedy troupe from the legendary Chicago theater that served as the training ground for numerous famous comedians including John Belushi, Mike Myers, Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Steve Carrell and Stephen Colbert.

“Second City sold out last summer, so we are adding two shows this year,” said Chandler.

To keep abreast of CAC’s many offerings, visit roswellcac.com and make plans to add more cultural experiences to your calendar in 2014. Chandler, who says her favorite activity in the world is hosting people, is ready to welcome you.

“The CAC is a beautiful space right here in the heart of Roswell. You can have dinner at your favorite Canton Street restaurant, then stroll over to see a show,” she said. “What better way to support the arts in your local community?”

High School Theaters Alpharetta 770-521-7640 Theater Director: David Gay; gayd@ fultonschools.org ext. 118 Cambridge 770-667-2883 Theatre Director: Tracey Buo;Buot@ fultonschools.org Centennial 770-650-4230 ext. 148 Theater Director: howardt@ fultonschools.org Chattahoochee 770-521-7600 Theater Director: Jan Jensen; jensenj@fultonschools.org Milton 770-740-7000 Theatre Director: Renee Denney Johns Creek 770-623-2138 Theater Director: Rhonda Fossum; fossum@fultonschools.org Roswell 770-552-4500 Theatre Director: Kristi Ogle; ogle@ fultonschools.org North Springs Charter Theater Director: Joel King; kingj1@ fultonschools.org Forsyth Central 770-887-8151 Theater Director: Colleen Quigley; quigley@forsyth.k12.ga.us Lambert 678-965-5050 Theater Director: Rebecca Houser; rhouser@forsyth.k12.ga.us North Forsyth 770-781-6637 Theater Director: Mary Hays Ernst; mhernst@forsyth.k12.ga.us South Forsyth 770-781-2264 Theater Director: Kirk Grizzle; kgrizzle@forsyth.k12.ga.us West Forsyth 770-8883470 Theater Director: Barbara Macko; bmacko@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Arts Alliance of Johns Creek says art matters Goal to make city center for art, music, dance, theater

By HATCHER HURD Before there was a city of Johns Creek, there were the arts in Johns Creek. Dance, fine art, music and theater not only stimulate the mind but help create an awareness of place that is Johns Creek.

With the city’s incorporation, the arts have continued to grow – nurtured by seven women who have set as a mission to promote all of the visual, performing and cultural arts to raise the quality of life in the Johns Creek area.

The seven women who came together to create the Arts Alliance of Johns Creek are already full-time administrators of their individual nonprofit arts organizations with all the headaches and responsibilities that they entail.

They are: • Sue Haggerty, executive director of the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, • Kitty Garrison, executive director of Atlanta Dance Theater, • Margarita Moldovan, artistic director of Performing Arts North, • Dorota Lato, president and founder of Chopin Society of

Atlanta, • Gail Hisle, executive director of the Johns Creek Art Center, • Joan Compton, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center Board vice president, • Linda Johnson, founder and president of Johns Creek Beautification Inc. These women are the backbone of the organizations that are raising arts consciousness in the community.

Five years ago, these ladies came together to form the Arts Alliance and play off the synergies that would create

a common identity for the Johns Creek area as a center for the arts.

“There was a flurry of meetings, ideas and action to make this come together,” said the JC Symphony’s Haggerty who also chairs the Arts Alliance. “Everybody is already so busy running a viable organization. But we see opportunities that will allow all arts organizations to become stronger.”

Garrison of Atlanta Dance Theater agrees. It is a way to promote all the arts, she said.

That led to the Arts Alliance Village with all of the arts under one tent at

THE ARTS Arts on the Creek last year.

“As we grow stronger together, the more visibility we have – and the louder our voice becomes,” said Chopin Society’s Lato.

Another catalyst for the arts, the Alliance Board, has been the emergence of the Verizon Amphitheatre, which gives all of North Fulton legitimacy as an arts center.

“But that still points to a big hole for all of us. We need a performing arts center, we all need a venue,” said Moldovan, of Performing Arts North.

Nevertheless, the Arts Alliance has become a force in the community.

The board members, all women, were asked why that was so?

Moldovan said it is that nurturing instinct that continues on even after the children go on to college.

“Women roll up their sleeves when a job needs doing. It’s a PTA thing,” said Haggerty.

The arts are a male-dominated field. But the organizations that support them are driven by “amazing women who do a lot with a little money, and do it quickly,” said Haggerty.

Meanwhile, these ladies continue to hunt around for venues and scrape for nickels and dimes to keep the lights turned on and the tickets printed.

They're driven to succeed.

“This is our legacy. That is our motivation for doing this,” said Johnson of Johns Creek Beautification.

Public voice on behalf of nonprofit arts organizations crucial oswell

Robert J.

Fa

This is not just about the artists; this Georgia Ensemble Theatre, but if you rtistic director, A GE need some additional ideas, give us is about and for you! lr ey For the arts to thrive in our coma call. We’ll be happy to help. munity, and more importantly to creVolunteer. Every hour you ate something that is sustainable, it pitch in and provide a volunis essential that we take action. teer service – from handing out Really, it is so easy to do. programs at a show to donatHere are four things you can do ing pro-bono accounting – to a to ensure that next year will not bring professional nonprofit arts orgaanother arts organization announcing: nization reduces the bottom line of “Ceased Operations.” operations. And it’s fun!

The soul of our city is at stake.

Donate $$$. This is a win-win for Participate. As an audience member, you are part everyone involved. Adding a donation to your ticket of the dialogue that makes our work possible. Do a purchase or making one independently not only enfavor for yourself and the arts: treat yourself to the sures that your favorite theater and others will thrive, pleasure of attending an arts event somewhere in but it is also fully tax deductible.

Atlanta.

And, it’s fun! You feel good, and so do we.

Bring a guest to the theater who perhaps has Advocate. This is so vitally important. Simply … never attended. Of course, we hope you’ll visit speak up!

R T,

On Oct. 8, the arts in Georgia took another severe step backwards with the shuttering of the third professional arts organization to close in as many years.

First, the beloved Theatre in the Square in Marietta after 30 years of operation, followed by the venerated Theatre of the Stars at the Fox after 60 years.

And now one of Atlanta’s most cherished theater companies, Georgia Shakespeare at the Conant Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of Oglethorpe University has ended its 29-year run.

In the meantime, as of this writing, Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center remains empty and dark as the center staff and ASO musicians make their entry into federal mediation.

We believe the circumstances have now become critical. It is time for all of us to step up and pitch in if there is to be a healthy and vibrant arts community in this major metropolis of Atlanta for us, our children and grandchildren.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 17

DISCOVER ATL WHAT TO DO INSIDE THE PERIMETER

Georgia Aquarium A

tlanta has a lot to brag about, but maybe the biggest attraction to brag about is the Georgia Aquarium.

This Mecca for aquatic life is the

18 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

largest in the United States and second largest in the world.

The aquarium has numerous exhibits for both fresh and salt water

animals.

Some of the notable attractions are Cold Water Quest, Dolphin Tales and Georgia Explorer just to name a

few.

To learn more or to plan your trip, visit georgiaaquarium.org.

225 Baker St. NW Atlanta

High Museum of Art Atlanta

DISCOVER ATL

From Picasso and the classics to contemporary art, performances, movies and events getting to know and frequent the High is a must if you live here. A few exhibitions coming up in 2015-2016 include: Wifredo Lam, Imagining New Worlds Feb. 14 – May 24, 2015 A retrospective of work by one of the Surrealist movement’s most influential figures.

Alex Katz, This is Now June 21 – Sept. 6, 2015 A major exhibition of more than 40 works created between 1954 and 2013 by internationally acclaimed artist Alex Katz.

Habsburg Splendor, Masterpieces from Vienna’s Imperial Collections Oct. 18, 2015 – Jan.17, 2016 A showcase of masterpieces and rare objects from the collection of the Habsburg Dynasty.

For more info visit high.org.

Address: 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, 30309.

Fox Theater Zoo Atlanta Lions, tigers and panda bears... oh my. There’s always something fun to do during your visit to the Zoo. The Zoo is open 363 days a year and guests can experience animal keeper talks, training demonstrations, fun shows, animal encounters and more. One of the biggest attractions is the panda exhibit, where you can meet America’s only twin pandas. For more info visit zooatlanta.org.

Address: 800 Cherokee Ave. SE Atlanta, GA 30315

The fabulous Fox Theater is a must get to know.

Movies, performances, music, and more. Sign up for their newsletter and stay plugged into this wonderful venue. Upcoming shows include: The Nutcracker, running through December 2014 Wicked, running Feb. 18 – March 8 Blue Man Group, running April 7 – 12 For more info, or to purchase tickets visit foxtheatre.org Address: 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

World of Coca-Cola A World of Coca-Cola General Admission ticket gets you access to all of the World of Coca‑Cola’s exhibits, films and experiences, for one price. With just one transaction, you get admission to all experiences featured on Tour Inside including admission to our current exhibits. worldofcoca-cola.com Address: 121 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 19

DISCOVER ATL

Stone ROCK CLIMBING DESTINATIONS Mountain Adrenaline Climbing 404-351-3009.

S

tone Mountain is the world’s largest piece of exposed granite. As a natural wonderland, Stone Mountain offers 3,200 acres of family fun. The Geyser Towers feature multiple levels of suspended rope bridges and net tunnels connected to towering platforms that overlook a geyser. SkyHike is one of the nation’s largest adventure courses, and the Summit Skyride offers a fantastic view of the Atlanta skyline.

Other activities like Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 4-D Experience, Scenic Railroad, Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf and the Great Barn are sure to keep every member of your family entertained. This experience is waiting just 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Visit stonemountainpark.com for more information.

20 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

The family-owned rock climbing gym in Suwanee offers training and orientations before partaking in the activity itself. Special group and training goal sessions are also offered. No reservations are required. Newcomers may climb independently after a 15-minute orientation. Minors should have liability waivers signed by parents before being able to climb.

For more information, call 770-271-1390 or visit adrenalineclimbing.com.

Atlanta Rocks!

An indoor climbing gym near Atlanta offers climbing for large groups or novices and training. Waivers and reservations are required. Make sure to tell the staff when making reservations if you do not know how to belay. With reservations, no experience is required. Minors should have liability waivers signed by parents before being able to climb.

For more information, visit atlantarocks.com or call

Atlanta’s Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center Located near Atlanta, the center is the nation’s largest climbing gym that welcomes all regardless of experience.

Group and party reservations are available. Liability waivers for all minors should be signed by parents before being able to climb. Legal guardians should be present while signing the waiver.

Call 678-720-9882 or visit ssclimbing.com.

Walk Crawler Rock Club The club, located near Atlanta, offers classes, summer camps, kids programs and memberships. Waivers for minors are required.

Both indoor and outdoor sessions are available.

Call 404-371-8997, or visit wallcrawlerclimbing.com.

Get on the Greenway

Legend

Cr ee Bi g

6.3 mi Bethelview Rd., End Forsyth Greenway 3.6 mi

Fowler Park

0 mi Begin Forsyth Greenway at McFarland Rd. 7.2 mi Webb Bridge Rd., End of Alpharetta/Roswell Greenway 6.4 mi YMCA

5.9 mi Old Milton Parkway Crossing 4.1 mi

Rock Mill Park, Kimball Bridge Crosswalk

2.3 mi Haynes Bridge Rd. 1.5 mi

Cr

r eR ive oc he ho

0 mi Begin Trail at Roswell’s Big Creek Park

at ta

1 mi Mansell Road Alpharetta/ Roswell City Limits

eek

North Point Parkway

Big

Forsyth

Parking

Ch

Construction on a new phase of Big Creek Greenway in Forsyth County is expected to begin soon, officials say.

The project, funded by the 2008 voterapproved Parks, Recreation and Green Space Bond, will likely be finished by October 2014.

The cost of the project totals about $2.8 million, coming in under the $3.6 million estimated cost.

“Phase four of the Big Creek Greenway consists of constructing a 12-foot-wide multi-use trail out of concrete and boardwalk along Big Creek and Kelly Mill Road,” said Jodi Gardner, director of communications for Forsyth County.

The project starts at the Bethelview Road trail head, continues along Big Creek for approximately 2.1 miles and then runs parallel to Kelly Mill Road for approximately 0.75 miles, ending at Johnson Road, Gardner said.

Once phase four is completed, the trail will span approximately 9.65 miles in Forsyth County. Tim Allen, Forsyth County assistant director of engineering, said the fourth phase will consist of about 1.85 miles of concrete trail, 0.96 miles of boardwalk and two bridges.

And a project is in sight to connect the Forsyth Greenway to the Alpharetta Greenway.

“We are working on a project that will add a sidewalk connection between Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Shiloh Road to connect Big Creek trail to the multi-use trail in 2014,” Allen said.

k

Restroom

Alpharetta / Roswell

Forsyth Expansion:

Exsisting Greenway Planned Greenway Conceptual Greenway River Road

Big Creek

By WILL HOUP and CAITLIN WAGENSAIL Since its inception, the Big Creek Greenway has proven to be a communal gem for Alpharetta, Roswell and Forsyth County.

It has an intergenerational reach giving residents means of transportation and recreation.

But what lies in the future for this nature trail? City of Alpharetta officials say there’s more path to come.

“Our goal is to get our section extended north to somewhere near McGinnis Ferry and Ronald Reagan Parkway,” said Mike Perry, Alpharetta Parks and Recreation director.

The current path ends at Marconi Drive.

By extending the path, Perry said, they would want to meet up with Forsyth County’s Greenway. The Forsyth Greenway’s southernmost tip is on McFarland Parkway.

The current trail stretches for about eight miles and has numerous entry points in the city.

It’s also considered a linear park with about a 12-foot-wide concrete path that skims along Big Creek, which connects to the Chattahoochee River.

In addition to walkers and runners, the Greenway also offers popular bike paths. Expect crowds on good weather days.

DISCOVER NORTH FULTON/SOUTH FORSYTH

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 21

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Circulation Comparison

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AJC WEEKDAY

16,481

AJC Weekday

AJC Sunday

NEIGHBOR 36,500

29,241

Neighbor 36,500

Appen 75,000

9,984

16,429

31,325

28,000

Johns Creek

2,500

5,500

0

20,000

South Forsyth

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2,318

0

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Milton

2,139

4,994

5,175

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Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Roswell Alpharetta

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22 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

revue & News • johns creek herald • milton herald forsyth herald • northside woman • northFulton.com Design Services – Direct Mail – Social Media Mgmt – Printing Brand Management – Custom Publishing – News Letters 770-442-3278 • Appen@NorthFulton.com Ray Appen, Publisher

Maureen Harvey, Joy Howell, Celesa Tuning, Mark Sunderland and Sandy Fogarty are the designers at Home Fashion Interiors.

Photos by Abby Breaux

Designing a lifestyle

BY KATHLEEN STURGEON Not everyone has the eye for design. Some

people struggle picking out their outfits for work, let alone furnishing their house. That’s why we sat down with Alpharetta’s Home

Fashion Interiors and talked about designing an interior, and why owner Jim Rozati would open in Alpharetta, not bustling Buckhead.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 23

About 26 years ago, Jim Rozati was looking for furnishings for his new house, but couldn’t find anything that appealed to him.

“I was looking for really good quality furniture at a reasonable

price,” said Rozati. “I had a hard time finding it and ended up doing a lot of research.”

Because he had experience in the window blinds, coverings and shutters business, Rozati came up with an idea.

“I thought, ‘I could do this’ because I researched so much in the market and I learned all the resources, all the factories and the manufacturers,” said Rozati. “I thought I could do a good job with this and have a store with quality furniture, not run-of-

24 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

the-mill types of products, things that are more designer end and that are reasonably priced.”

Thus, he created Home Fashion Interiors.

It took Rozati two years of planning and looking for the right space, but he decided Alpharetta would be his new store’s home-sweet-home.

“At the time, North Fulton was growing and I was a fan of the fastest growing area in town,” said Rozati.

The variety of furniture in the store is something that makes it different

from others, Rozati said.

“The selection along with our 24 years of industry experience set us apart,” Rozati said. “We carry a number of lines of all the different name brands, plus we have great designers that can help the customers create something beautiful.”

The team of designers that help customers create beautiful homes include Maureen Harvey, Joy Howell, Sandi Fogarty, Celesa Tuning and Mark Sunderland.

Sunderland said Rozati always

wanted to own his instead of renting a “North Fulton is so there’s always fr newness, people c and the moneymak Buckhead are mos ta area,” Sunderlan chose to put his sto area to attract cust Current trends rating business ind leaning towards les transitional furnishin

own building a space. s a transient area, reshness and coming and going kers outside of stly in the Alpharetnd said. “[Rozati] ore right in that tomers.” in the home decodicate more people ss clutter and more ngs, Sunderland

Meet the designers

S

said.

“People’s lives are so hectic and busy that they want to come home to simplicity and to a home that’s well put together,” Sunderland said.

“I think Home Fashion Interiors has a look that appeals to 80 percent of the market.”

Two of Rozati’s happy homeowners are Barbara and Fred Denkman of Milton. They chose Sunderland as their designer after meeting him and realizing they had a connection.

“He realized that we wanted a

relaxing home,” said Fred Denkman.

“We were starting with a clean plate.”

The couple got married two years ago and decided a year into their marriage they wanted to build and design a new house together.

Six months ago their dream design was started and it’s now completed.

“Almost all of the furniture is new except for a few pieces and then we used what we had,” said Barbara Denkman. “It was nice to start from the beginning and we also wanted something that’s not fussy, but still pretty.”

The Denkmans are both attorneys, so office space furniture and layout were at the top of their wish list. “[Sunderland] really helped us with the design of the office because we both needed an office space and we work together,” said Barbara Denkman.

The Denkmans say they are very happy with how their house turned out and that others take notice of their furnishings from Home Fashion Interiors.

“We wanted the colors and the furniture to be casual and relaxing,” said Fred Denkman. “When friends come over, a consistent comment we get is ‘what a peaceful and relaxing home you have.’ I think we tried to achieve that and we did.”

Working with clients to decide what furniture to put into a house is one of the most important parts, said another designer, Celesa Tuning.

“I normally decide what style fits a family by speaking to the family to find out what lifestyle they have, how they entertain and what job they do,” said Tuning. “Many people entertain and have parties throughout the year and that determines what style they like.”

This method is successful for Home Fashion Interiors and helps create a look that appeals to almost everyone, said designer Joy Howell.

“We have anything you want from traditional, transitional, whatever your style may be, we have something for anyone,” said Howell. “We can do everything you need in one place.”

Even having your home furnished by the owner of the company is possible when you choose Home Fashion Interiors as your decorating firm.

“One time, our delivery guys

andi Fogarty has designed award-winners from coast to coast, including Roswell Woman’s Club Showcase Home (since 1999); Street of Dreams and Builder Showhouses. Her residential and commercial designs have been published in Atlanta Magazine, House Beautiful and Better Homes & Gardens. Her work has been featured internationally on HGTV.

J

oy Howell brings 23 years of home decorating experience to HFI. Her work can be found throughout the Southeast - Nashville, TN; Calabash, NC; along 30-A in the Florida Panhandle - to name a few. She specializes in high-end residential, as well as commercial spaces. She has extensive experience with space planning and working with blueprints

M

aureen Harvey studied Interior Design at the Art Institute of Atlanta. Her work has appeared in publications including Atlanta Magazine and Better Homes & Gardens. Her most notable project: The 2002 Builders’ Show House; Lakeside at Ansley, winning 9 of 20 awards, including best use of color.

In fact, the owner recently hired her to update their master bedroom and bath!

M

ark Sunderland, Allied Member ASID, has been an Interior Designer for 20+ years. Atlantans will know him from working at Ralph Lauren Home and Beverly Hall Furniture Galleries. In addition to many clients in Greater Atlanta, Mark has decorated entire homes in Pennsylvania, Colorado, Florida, and Virginia, North and South Carolina, and a private golf country club outside Plymouth, Massachusetts.

C

elesa Tuning has been in the design business for over 21 years, working closely with clients on both new projects as well as remodels. She is an outstanding designer known for her traditional and contemporary designs in high-end homes and offices.

She works closely with her clientele to select the best quality and style of both furnishings and accessories.

“Many people entertain and have parties throughout the year and that determines what style they like.”

Celesa Tuning, Home Fashion Interiors designer

were sick and I ended up going with my assistant to deliver the furniture to the customer’s house,” said Rozati.

“After I helped move the furniture into the house and it was finished, it looked so beautiful. It really felt good and was rewarding. It made it all worthwhile to see the finished product. The client was so happy and that made me really happy. It made me feel like what I’m doing is something meaningful.”

As for the future of Home

Fashion Interiors, Rozati said they have plenty of space at their 793 North Main Street location to expand.

If you’re thinking about refurnishing your house, the Denkmans have some advice.

“Go to Home Fashion Interiors,” said Fred Denkman. “Ask for any one of these people. They have just been marvelous.”

For more information, visit homefashioncenter.com.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 25

David Brown/Staff

Avalon celebrates opening – with further ado

By HATCHER HURD The wait is over. The buzz is over.

It is here. Avalon, the “Next Big Thing,” has flung open its doors, and within are the beckoning calls of its 54 Aladdinlike stores, restaurants, upscale houses and apartments, entertainment and more. And just in time for Christmas, too.

Another 18 stores will open after the first of the year for a full complement of 72.

The Oct. 30 VIP breakfast kicked off the grand opening of the $300 million Phase I of the 86-acre mixed-use development from North American

26 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Properties at Ga. 400 and Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta.

There were smiles all around as the grand opening went off as scheduled and on a bright sunny morning for good measure.

From the time residents and visitors drive onto the property, they can expect an experience unlike any other shopping and dining foray, said North American Properties Managing Partner Mark Toro.

“Their experience will be effortless, meaningful and memorable,” Toro told the gathered dignitaries.

“When people come here, they will find that there are stores here, but it is

not a shopping mall,” he said. “They will find apartments here, but it is not an apartment complex. They will find homes here, but it not a subdivision.”

Avalon, Toro said, “is an experience.”

When the property was first assembled by its former owners, it was called Prospect Park. In terms of design, Prospect Park would have looked much like what had come before it – retail here, Class A office there and some residential attached.

When that project was swallowed up in the Great Recession, the property sat for several years while the banks dithered about what to do with it.

Then, the property came under the scrutiny of North American Properties.

NAP had recently acquired the troubled Atlantic Station mixed-use development and was in the midst of turning it around, when the company became aware that Wells Fargo owned Prospect Park and would listen to a serious offer for it.

NAP President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Williams saw the potential it had as the economy emerged from the doldrums of 2008-11.

“We came here and saw the opportunity the property presented. We saw how strong the demographics were,” Williams said. “We had become involved with Atlantic Station, so we

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Abby Breaux/Staff

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American Threads Anthropologie Antico Pizza Napoletana Arhaus Athleta Banana Republic Bantam + Biddy Bantu BCBG Bocado Burger Bar C. Wonder Caffé Gio Calypso St. Barth Crate & Barrel Columbia Sportswear Cru Food & Wine Bar Destination Maternity Dry Bar Everything But Water Exhale Spa Fab’rik Fly Wheel The El Felix Francesca’s Free People Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory Gap Goldberg’s Deli Gymboree J. Crew

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J. Jill Janie & Jack J. McLaughlin Kendra Scott Kinnucan’s Kona Grill LensCrafters L’Occitane Lou & Grey lululemon Marlow’s Tavern Marmi Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Orvis Paper Source Pinkberry PNC Bank Pottery Barn Kids Regal Cinemas Road Runner Sports Sage Boutique Soft Surroundings Sunglass Hut Ted’s Montana Grill The Cosmetic Market Oak Steakhouse Tommy Bahama Van Michael Salon Vineyard Vines West Elm Whole Foods Market

Abby Breaux/Staff

were here; we had learned a lot about the Atlanta market. We saw it was a very unique property. So we decided to take on the challenge.”

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce President Brandon Beach said when NAP first presented the Avalon plan that it was “iconic, transformational and a game-changer” for the entire region.

At the grand opening, he said he sees nothing that would make him change that statement.

“I mean how many $600 million projects [with Phase II] are getting built in the United States today?” Beach said. “Not only will this be the first giga-

A visitor at Avalon’s grand opening stops by concierge for more information.

Shoppers eagerly await stores to open at Avalon.

byte community in Georgia – streaming data 100 times faster than anything today – it offers company CEOs and regional directors a place to live and enjoy the lifestyle they want to have.”

Beach has returned from a recent tour of Google headquarters. He said they interviewed all of their employees under 30. The survey showed: • 100 percent of them no longer owned a landline phone.

• 80 percent did not want to own a home.

• 50 percent didn’t own a car.

“They don’t want the hassles of insurance and maintenance of car.

They bike or take local transit. They

don’t want to be tied down by a mortgage, and they live, breathe and sleep with their mobile phone in their hand,” Beach said.

Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle said Avalon is a perfect fit for Alpharetta. With its 600 technology companies encamped in greater Alpharetta, the new $25 million Gwinnett Technical College campus going up across the street, the lifestyle and the great public and private schools in the city, it is easy to see why Avalon wanted to be here as well, the mayor said.

“This will be a springboard for future development as well,” Belle Isle said.

He pointed to the Alpharetta City

HATCHER HURD/Staff

Center already under construction downtown with the new City Hall rising as just one example of more things on the way. There is one technology company in Alpharetta for every 100 residents, the densest ratio in the country.

There are also new residential developments going up downtown and the city has a shortlist of three developers for the City Center project.

On opening day, no one was happier than Toro, who has nurtured the project from the neighborhood meetings through rezoning and construction.

“I’m elated,” Toro said. “Avalon has exceeded all of my expectations. Now, I will start on Phase II Monday morning.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 27

Blue Ribbon Businesses

F

or 7 years, Appen Media Group has honored the best of the best in North Fulton and South Forsyth with a contest and gala. Every year we tweak the contest to keep it as relevant and significant as possible.

2013 marked the first year we held an awards banquet to honor and recognize the winners, an event made possible by several local business sponsors. We had over 200 business owners, leaders, and employees join us as we sampled some of the area’s finest food and drink, heard from Mark Toro, the developer of Avalon in Alpharetta and of course announced the winners and handed out their certificates of recognition.

This year we plan to throw the event again, and the attendees will be delighted with the changes.

Below is the complete list of the Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth 2014.

MEDICAL WINNERS Best Assisted Living Benton House: Winner Alpharetta: 678-319-3000 Johns Creek: 770-754-5446 Sugar Hill: 770-904-0099 Woodstock: 678-494-4500 Roswell: 770-993-8040 bentonhouse.com Parc at Duluth: 1st Runner Up 3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096 770-622-6880 parcatduluth.com

Best Audiologist

North Fulton ENT: Winner Roswell: 770-343-8675 Cumming: 770-886-5821 northfultonent.com Little Listeners: 1st Runner Up 1389 Weber Industrial Drive Cumming, GA 30041 littlelistenersclinic.com 770-744-2451

Best Chiropractor

Best Cosmetic Surgery

Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery: Winner 3400 Old Milton Parkway Building C, Suite 515 Alpharetta, GA 30005 855-337-3657 robinsonfps.com Swan Center: 1st Runner Up 4165 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200 East Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-667-0904 swancenteratlanta.com

Best Dentist

Center for Advanced Dentistry: Winner 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 Suwanee, GA 30024 HiTechSmiles.com 678-894-7926

Best Internal Medicine

Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine: Winner 6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-771-6591 johnscreekdermatology.com

Jones Bridge Dental: 1st Runner Up 11925 Jones Bridge Rd., Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-772-0606 jbdentalcare.com

Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek: 1st Runner Up 3340 Paddocks Parkway Suwanee, GA 30024 678-474-9633 imajohnscreek.com

Best Dermatologist

Best Nutritionist

Willis Chiropractic: Winner 317 N. Main St Alpharetta GA 30009 770-740-8740 willischiropractic.com

Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine: Winner 6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100, Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-771-6591 johnscreekdermatology.com

Care More: 1st Runner Up 1580 Holcomb Bridge Rd #20 Roswell, GA 30076 770-640-6600, caremorechiro.com

North Atlanta Dermatology: 1st Runner Up Offices in Duluth, Suwanee & Buford, 770-814-8222

28 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

naderm.com

Dr. Sean Savedoff – Revolution Health: Winner 11040 Crabapple Road Roswell, GA 30075, 770-731-9410 Drsavedoff.com Citron Nutrition: 1st Runner Up citronnutrition.com Linda Citron, 770-851-7890 Linda@citronnutrition.com

Best OB-Gyn

Peachtree Women’s Clinic: Winner Atlanta: 404-255-8022 Alpharetta: 770-521-2295 Cumming - 770-888-0188 peachtreewomensclinic.com Roswell OB-Gyn: 1st Runner Up 11975 Morris Road, Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-751-3600 roswellobgyn.org

Best Oncologist

Georgia Cancer Specialists: Winner 3330 Preston Ridge Road, Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30005 678-566-6995 GaCancer.com Atlanta Cancer Care: 1st Runner Up Multiple Locations around Metro Atlanta 770-740-9664 atlantacancercare.com

Best Ophthalmologist

Milan Eye Center: Winner 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 325

Johns Creek, Ga 970 Sanders Rd Suite 100 Cumming, Ga, 678-787-4575 milaneyecenter.com Thomas Eye Group: 1st Runner Up 11690 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell 30076 770-475-5515 1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 101, Suwanee, 30024 770-809-3366 thomaseyegroup.com

Best Optometrist

Milan Eye Center: Winner 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 325 Johns Creek, Ga 30097 970 Sanders Rd Suite 100 Cumming, Ga 30041 678-787-4575, milaneyecenter.com Windward Eye Care: 1st Runner Up 5315-F Windward Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-393 2025 atlantaeyecare.com

Best Orthodontist

Dr. Jeffery W. Jordan Orthodontics: Winner 4205 North Point Pkwy., Bldg. B, Alpharetta, GA 3002 770-751-1240 JWJordan.com Mibab Orthodontics: 1st Runner Up 9570 Nesbit Ferry Rd. Ste 202 Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 552-6800 mibabortho.com

Best Pediatrician

Georgetown Pediatrics: Winner Multiple Area Locations 770-475-2233 georgetownpedicatrics.com Roswell Pediatrics: 1st Runner Up Multiple Area Locations 770-751-0800 roswellpediatrics.com

Best Podiatrist

North Fulton Podiatry: Winner 1380 Upper Hembree Rd, Roswell 30076 770-346-7500 Village Podiatry Centers: 1st Runner Up 1350 Upper Hembree Road, Ste 100, Roswell, GA 30076 770 663 8011 vpcenters.com

Best Urgent Care

Bethany Bend Urgent Care: Winner 13081 Highway 9

Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-521-6690 bethanybendurgentcare.com CHOA of Mansell and Forsyth: 1st Runner Up Multiple Atlanta Locations, choa.org

Best Urologist

Georgia Urology: Winner Multiple Atlanta Area Locations 888-503-1842 gaurology.com North Atlanta Urology: 1st Runner Up 993C Johns Ferry Road Northeast, ste 120 Atlanta, GA 30342 404-256-5332 northatlantaurology.com

Best Vein Specialist

VeinInnovations: Winner 4255 Johns Creek Pkwy, Suite D, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-731-9815 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, Suite 340 Atlanta, GA 30342 678-731-9815 veininnovations.com North Georgia Vein Institute: 1st Runner Up 4415 Front Nine Drive, ste 600 Cumming, Ga 30041 678-513-1600 6002 Highway 53, ste 100 Dawsonville, GA 30534 northgeorgiavein.com

RECREATION & SERVICE WINNERS Best Art Studio Pinot’s Palette: Winner 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek Johns Creek Art Center: 1st Runner Up 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd # 700, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 623-8448, johnscreekarts.org

Best Dance Lessons

Tolbert Yilmaz: Winner 10400 Alpharetta St, Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 998-0259 tysod.com

Cumming Dance Academy: 1st Runner Up 419 Tribble Gap Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, (770) 781-4922 cummingdanceacademy.com

Best Date Night

Cabernet: Winner 5575 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, 30004, (770) 777-5955 cabernetsteakhouse.com Pinot’s Palette: 1st Runner Up 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek

Best Entertainment Venue Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre: Winner 2200 Encore Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (404) 733-5010 vzwamp.com

Blue Ribbon Businesses 11000 Alpharetta Hwy Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 992-5688 andrettikarting.com Pinot’s Palette: 1st Runner Up 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek

Best Gym/Workout Facility Lifetime Fitness: Winner

YMCA: 1st Runner Up 3655 Preston Ridge Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005 , 770- 664-1220 ymcaatlanta.org/iay/ 6050 Y Street, Cumming, Georgia 30040, 770- 888-2788 ymcaatlanta.org/fcy/

Pinot’s Palette: 1st Runner Up 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek

Best Hair Salon

Best Family Activity

Muse: 1st Runner Up

Pinot’s Palette: Winner 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek Lake Lanier: 1st Runner Up

Best Golf Course (four way tie) Polo Golf and Country Club: Winner 6300 Polo Club Drive Cumming, GA 30040 770-887-7656 pologolfandcountryclub.com/ Alpharetta Athletic Club: Winner 3430 Hwy 9, Alpharetta, GA (770) 475-2300 alpharettaac.com Atlanta Athletic Club: Winner 1930 Bobby Jones Dr. Johns Creek, GA 30097 atlantaathleticclub.org The Standard Club: 1st Runner Up 6230 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-497-0055 standardclub.org

Best Group/ Corporate Activity Andretti’s: Winner

Salon De La Vie: Winner 1217 Canton St, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 461-2212 salondelavie.net

Best Hotel/Lodging

Alpharetta Mariott: Winner 5750 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005, (866) 316-7267 marriott.com Roswell Double Tree: 1st Runner Up 1075 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Roswell, GA 30076, (770) 992-9600 doubletree.hilton.com/Roswell

Best Kid Party

Pinot’s Palette: Winner 11720 Medlock Bridge Road #175, Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 783-1783 pinotspalette.com/JohnsCreek Skyzone: 1st Runner Up 1425 Market Boulevard, 100-A Roswell, GA 30076 Phone:(678) 745-9900 skyzone.com/Roswell

Best Park

Roswell Area Park: Winner 38 Hill St., Suite 100 Roswell, GA 30075 770-641-3705, roswellgov.com Fowler Park: 1st Runner Up 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming, GA 30040, (770) 886-4088

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 29

Best Spa

Spa Sydell: Winner 404.255.7727 spasydell.com LaVida: 1st Runner Up 1. 12460 Crabapple Rd #205, Alpharetta, GA 30004 (770) 740-0654 lavidamassagealpharettaga.com 2. 5485 Bethelview Rd #220, Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 947-4642 lavidamassagecummingga.com 3. 10945 State Bridge Rd #301, Johns Creek, GA 30022 (678) 624-9091 lavidamassagejohnscreekga.com

Best Staycation

Jim n Nick’s BBQ: 1st Runner Up 3130 Ronald Reagan Blvd Cumming, GA 30041 678-845-1565

Best Breakfast

J Christopher’s: Winner Roswell, Alpharetta & Cumming locations jchristophers.com Egg Harbor Café: 1st Runner Up 10270 Medlock Bridge Rd. Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-807-8018 eggharborcafe.com

Lake Lanier: Winner 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway Buford, GA 30518 770-945-878 lanierislands.com

Best Brew Pub

Stone Mountain: 1st Runner Up

Cherry Street: 1st Runner Up 5810 Bond St, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 205-5512 cherrystreetbrewing.com/

Best Theatre

Studio Movie Grill: Winner 2880 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30022 770-992-8411 studiomoviegrill.com Aurora: 1st Runner Up 5100 Commerce Pkwy Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 518-0977 auroracineplex.com

Hop Alley: Winner 25 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 696-2097 hopalleybrew.com

Best Burger

Lucky’s Tavern: Winner 1144 Alpharetta St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 518-5695 Luckysburgerandbrew.com

12315 Crabapple Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 410-9883 alpinebakeryandtrattoria.com Foundation Social Eatery: 1st Runner Up 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd #810, Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 641-8877 foundationatl.com Davinci’s Donuts: 1st Runner Up 131 S Main St,Suite F, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (678) 392-2523 davincisdonuts.com

Best Donuts

Davinci’s Donuts: Winner 131 S Main St,Suite F, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (678) 392-2523 davincisdonuts.com Dutch Monkey Donuts: 1st Runner Up 3075 Ronald Reagan Blvd #502, Cumming, GA 30041 (404) 482-3650

Best Family Dining

Norman’s Landing: Winner Norman’s Landing 365 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 886-0100 normanslanding.com

Burger Fi: 1st Runner Up 5475 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 817-4656 Burgerfi.com

Rick Tanner’s Grille: 1st Runner Up Vickery Village 5810 Bond St Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 205-5512

Founders Hall: Winner 1076 Canton St, Roswell, GA 30075 770-992-4120 roswellfoundershall.com

Best Business Lunch

Best Happy Hour

Naylor Hall: 1st Runner Up 1121 Canton St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 642-9409 naylorhall.com

Norman’s Landing: 1st Runner Up Norman’s Landing 365 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 886-0100 normanslanding.com

Restaurant Winners

Best Casual Dining

Best Wedding Venue

Best BBQ Cue BBQ: Winner 1370 Buford Hwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 888-1048 13700 Hwy 9 N, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 667-0089 5260 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Peachtree Corners, GA 30071 (470) 299-5117 cuebarbeque.com

30 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Village Tavern: Winner 11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 777-6490, villagetavern.com

Village Tavern: Winner 11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 777-6490 villagetavern.com

Norman’s Landing: 1st Runner Up Norman’s Landing 365 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 886-0100 normanslanding.com

Best Dessert

Alpine Bakery: Winner

Village Tavern: Winner 11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 777-6490 villagetavern.com Hop Alley: 1st Runner Up 25 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 696-2097 hopalleybrew.com

Best Patio

Pure Taqueria: 1st Runner Up 103 Roswell St, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (678) 240-0023, puretaqueria.com Nine Street Café: 1st Runner Up 982 Canton St #100 Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 682-3222 ninestreetkitchen.com

Best Pizza

Crust: Winner 131 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 777-6789, crust-pizzeria.com

Blue Ribbon Businesses

Mellow Mushroom: 1st Runner Up Multiple Atlanta locations mellowmushroom.com

Best Steak

Stony River: Winner 10524 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 678-461-7900 5800 State Bridge Rd. Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-476-0102 stoneyriver.com Little Alley Steakhouse: 1st Runner Up 955 Canton St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 998-0440 littlealleysteak.fhfoodtradinggroup.com

Best Restaurant (All Around) Village Tavern: Winner 11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 777-6490, villagetavern.com

Rick Tanner’s Grille: 1st Runner Up Vickery Village 5810 Bond St Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 205-5512

Best Sushi

Sushi Nami: Winne 5316 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (678) 566-3889 Sushinami.com Atlantic Seafood Company: 1st Runner Up 2345 Mansell Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 770.640.0488 Atlantaseafoodco.com

Best Retail Best Antiques

Queen of Hearts: Winner 670 N Main St Alpharetta, GA 30009 (678) 297-7571 queenofheartsantiques-interiors.com City Antiques of Roswell: 1st Runner Up 710 Holcomb Bridge Rd Suite 100 Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 645-2525 cityantiques.com

Best Appliances/Electronics

Fry’s Electronics: Winner 3065 Webb Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30004 (678) 280-0550 frys.com HH Gregg: 1st Runner Up 5530 Windward Pkwy Ste 200, Alpharetta, GA 30004 (678) 867-2015 hhgregg.com

Best Art Gallery Muse: Winner 39 Oak St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 594-9511 musecofineart.com

Ann Jackson: 1st Runner Up 932 Canton St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 993-4783 annjacksongallery.com

Best Beverage Store

Red’s: Winner Red’s Package Store Winner 270 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 770 664-7337 Crabapple Beverage: 1st Runner Up 10971 Crabapple Rd #1100, Roswell, GA 30075, (770) 642-4038 South Harmony 28 N Main St., Alpharetta, Georgia (470) 268-8848

Best Boutique

Drake Closet: Winner 825 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 682-3551 thedrakehouse.org/the-drake-closet/ South Harmony: 1st Runner Up 28 N Main St Alpharetta, Georgia (470) 268-8848

Best Consignment Store

Drake Closet: Winner 825 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 682-3551 thedrakehouse.org/the-drake-closet/ Kid to Kid: 1st Runner Up 1. 11770 Haynes Bridge Rd #601, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (770) 807-3245 2. 535 Georgia 9, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 888-8500 3. 5900 State Bridge Rd Duluth, GA 30097, (770) 495-4888 kidtokid.com

Best Interior Designer

Home Fashion Interiors: Winner

793 N Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 285-7915 Homefashioncenter.com Tuscany Fine Furnishings: 1st Runner Up 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 993-0640 tuscanyfinefurnishings.com

Best Kid Store

Kid to Kid: Winner 1. 11770 Haynes Bridge Rd #601, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (770) 807-3245 2. 535 Georgia 9, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 888-8500 3. 5900 State Bridge Rd Duluth, GA 30097, (770) 495-4888 Alex n Sis: 1st Runner Up

Best Farmers Market

Alpharetta Downtown Farmers Market: Winner Canton Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (404) 402-5389 alpharettafarmersmarket.com Don’s Farmers Market: 1st Runner Up 2152 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Ga 30041, (770) 377-7334

Best Florist

Flowers From Us: Winner 825 Mayfield Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 640-6007 flowersfromus.net Best Little Florist in Roswell: 1st Runner Up 10800 Alpharetta Hwy #228 Roswell, GA 30076 (888) 850-3590 bestlittleflowershop.com

Best Furniture

Home Fashion Interiors: Winner 793 N Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 285-7915 Homefashioncenter.com Peacock Interiors: 1st Runner Up 1790 Peachtree Parkway, Ste. 203 Cumming, GA 30041 (470) 239-4286, peacockinteriors.com

Best Jewelry Store

Iroff and Sons: Winner 3960 Old Milton Pkwy #300, Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 751-7222, Iroff.com Brown & Co: 1st Runner Up 674 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 993-1080

brownjewelers.com Lance’s Jewelry: 1st Runner Up 1705 Market Pl Blvd, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 781-5500 lancesjewelry.com

Best Local Store

Drake Closet: Winner 825 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell, GA 30075 (678) 682-3551 thedrakehouse.org/the-drake-closet/ Parsons: 1st Runner Up 1. 7300 N Point Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30022, (678) 879-1050 2. 525 Lakeland Plaza, Cumming, GA 30040, (770) 887-9991 parsonsgifts.com

Best Shopping/ Entertainment

The Collections at Forsyth: Winner 410 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (603) 318-4245 collectionforsyth.com North Point Mall: 1st Runner Up 1000 N Point Cir, Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 740-9273 Northpointmall.com

Blue Ribbon Businesses Multiple Area Locations wellsfargo.com KeyWorth Bank: 1st Runner Up Johns Creek Financial Center (Main Office) 11655 Medlock Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-418-2772 Alpharetta Financial Center 9925 Haynes Bridge Road, Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30022 770-753-2300

Best Car Sales (New)

Honda Carland Roswell: Winner 11085 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 770-993-2805 hondacarland.com Infiniti Roswell: 1st Runner Up 11405 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 770-625-8500 roswellinfiniti.com

SERVICE WINNERS

Regal Nissan: 1st Runner Up 1090 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA 30076 770-998-8686 regalauto.com

Best Auto Service Department

Best Car Sales (Used)

Scott’s Auto Center: Winner 820 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (678) 947-4040 scottsautocenter.net Carl Black: 1st Runner Up 11225 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 888-445-7984 carlblackroswell.com Back on Road: 1st Runner Up 2875 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (678) 566-6663 backontheroadauto.com

Best Bakery

Alpine: Winner 12315 Crabapple Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 410-9883 alpinebakeryandtrattoria.com Davinci’s Donuts: 1st Runner Up 131 S Main St,Suite F, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (678) 392-2523 davincisdonuts.com

Best Bank

Wells Fargo: Winner

CarMax: Winner 11450 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 866-375-8310 carmax.com

Honda Carland Roswell: 1st Runner Up 11085 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell, GA 30076 770-993-2805 hondacarland.com

Best Car Wash

Cactus Car Wash: Winner 12905 Georgia 9, Milton, GA 30004 (770) 343-9960 Cactuscarwash.com Mammoth Car Wash: 1st Runner Up 255 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA (770) 521-0300 and 2145 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA (770) 521-0599 mammothdetail.com

Best Caterer

Talk of the Town: Winner 30 Woodstock St Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 594-1567

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 31

talkofthetownatlanta.com 3 Brothers Catering: 1st Runner Up 11670 Jones Bridge Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30005, (770) 873-0023 3brotherscateringandevents.net

Best Construction Service Paramount Drywall: Winner PO Box 2272 Cumming, GA 30028 678-300-0542, getdrywall.com

Bullseye: 1st Runner Up 1623 Summersweet Lane Dacula, GA 30019 - 678) 830-7100 * bullseyebuildersgroup.com

Best CPA

Santi & Associates: Winner 4010 Old Milton Parkway Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-623-4440, santicpa.com Robin McIntyre: 1st Runner Up 555 Sun Valley Dr F-2 Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 552-9410 rrmcpa.com

Best Deck Builders

Atlanta Decking: Winner 5125 Shiloh Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 781-4641 Deck Doctor: 1st Runner Up 307 Devon Ct, Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 591-9759

Best Handyman

Trusted Toolbox: Winner 2885 N. Berkeley Lake Rd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-623-3097 thetrustedtoolbox.com Andy On-Call: 1st Runner Up 3544 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005, (770) 640-6050

Best Heating/Air

Reliable Heating/Air: Winner 11075 Hwy 92 Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 594-9969 reliableair.com CoolRay: 1st Runner Up Multiple Atlanta Locations (770) 421-8400, Coolray.com

Best Independent Senior Living Community:

Chambrel Roswell – Winner 1000 Applewood Drive, Roswell, GA 30076 brookdale.com (866) 675-1594

32 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Benton House – 1st runner up Alpharetta: 678-319-3000 Johns Creek: 770-754-5446 Sugar Hill: 770-904-0099 Woodstock: 678-494-4500 Roswell: 770-993-8040 bentonhouse.com

Best Information Services

Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau: Winner Park Plaza 178 South Main Street Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30009 (678) 297-2811 awesomealpharetta.com Appen Media Group: 1st Runner Up 319 North Main Street Alpharetta, Ga 30009 northfulton.com

Best IT

Carmichael Consultants: Winner 319 N Main St #200, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (678) 719-9671 carmichaelconsulting.com Peachtree Computers: 1st Runner Up

Best Landscaper

TruCut: Winner 154 Bent Ridge Drive, Dawsonville, GA 30534, (770)-866-1401 trucutservices@aol.com Mobile Joe’s Landscaping: 1st Runner Up Alpharetta, GA, (770) 360-5604 mobilejoeslandscaping.com

Best Law Firm

Camp Bow Wow: 1st Runner Up 1755 Grassland Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (678) 807-8505 campbowwow.com

Best Pet Services

Alpharetta Animal Clinic: Winner 80 Milton Ave, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 475-7613 alpharettaanimalhospital.com Loving Hands Animal Clinic: 1st Runner Up 13775 Hwy 9 N, Alpharetta, GA 30004 (770) 667-9022, lovinghands.com

Best Photographer

Kloster Group: 1st Runner Up Harry Norman, REALTORS® North Fulton Office 7855 North Point Parkway | Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 harrynorman.com 678-461-8700

Best Plumber

Pete’s Plumbing: Winner 2280 Justin Trl Ste D, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 442-3934 petesplumbinginc.com Superior Plumbing: 1st Runner Up Roswell, GA 30075, (770) 993-7586 superiorplumbing.com

Best Pre-School/Day Care Primrose Schools: Winner Multiple Area Locations primroseschools.com

Best Private K-12 School

Best Maid Services

King’s Ridge: 1st Runner Up 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 754-5738 kingsridgecs.org

Pet Lodge Pet Resort: Winner

Brandywine Printing: 1st Runner Up 5249 Shiloh Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 772-6136 Brandywineprinting.com

Clark Savage: 1st Runner Up 352 Pebble Trail Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 770-883-3305 atlantaphotographer.com

Grissom Law Firm: 1st Runner Up 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd., Suite 215 Johns Creek, GA 30097 678-781-9230 grissomlawfirm.com

Best Pet Day Care

Alpharetta Print & Sign: Winner 9305 Industrial Trce, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (678) 366-9018 alpharettaprintsign.com

Best Realtor

The Goddard School: 1st Runner Up Multiple Area Locations goddardschool.com

The Maids: 1st Runner Up Multiple Area Locations 1 877-410-6243 maids.com

Best Printer

Whitelake Studios: Winner 6715 Little Mill Rd, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 889-3202 whitelakestudio.com

Hipes & Belle Isle: Winner 178 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 664-6699, Hbilawfirm.com

Mini Maid: Winner 271 N Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 360-9000 minimaid-ga.com

Blue Ribbon Businesses

Pinecrest Academy: Winner 955 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 888-4477 pinecrestacademy.org

Best Private Primary School Pincrest Academy: Winner 955 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, GA 30041, (770) 888-4477 pinecrestacademy.org King’s Ridge: 1st Runner Up 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta, GA 30004, (770) 754-5738 kingsridgecs.org

Keller Willliams: Winner Multiple Atlanta locations kw.com/kw/

Best Travel Agency AAA: Winner Multiple Atlanta locations autoclubsouth.aaa.com

Aladdin Travel Service: 1st Runner Up 294 N Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009, (770) 475-1511

Best Tree Service

Redfern: Winner 170 Mansell Pl, Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 518-0633 redferntree.com Acorn: 1st Runner Up 7595 Nicholson Rd, Cumming, GA 30028, (678) 513-6511 acorntreecare.com

Thanks to all those who voted, and congratulations to all of our winners!

Winner Farmers Market

Winner Jewelry Store Iroff & Son

Alpharetta Farmers Market

www.Iroff.com

www.AlpharettaFarmersMarket.com

3960 Old Milton Pkwy., Ste 300 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-751-7222

Old Canton Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 404-402-5389

Winner Florist Flowers From Us

Winner Handyman Trusted Toolbox

www.FlowersFromUs.net

www.TheTrustedToolbox.com

825 Mayfield Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-640-6007

2885 N. Berkeley Lake Rd. NW, Ste 14 Duluth, GA 30096 770-623-3097 Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 33

Live local in Roswell

By JESSICA DIAMOND Communications Coordinator, Roswell Inc

Jessica Di

am

Native Georgians and visitors alike are often surprised to learn that Roswell is, in fact, quite a large city. The last census counted d just shy of 100,000 people, and the on numbers continue to grow rapidly.

A visitor sitting on a bench in downtown Roswell might guess that the population hovered somewhere in the hundreds.

People walking the streets all seem to recognize one another.

Furthermore, they are on a first name basis with the business owners, most of whom can normally be found on any given day working in their shops and restaurants.

People generally hold doors, share stories and extend a friendly welcome to guests. Despite the fact it is among the 10 largest cities in GA, Roswell has a way of feeling, well, like a classic small, southern town!

So, what would draw people to a suburban city like Roswell?

The city’s unique duality plays a vital role in its appeal. Given that Roswell is a large and fairly affluent city, its amenities are extensive and diverse.

It is able to support a large number of businesses, given its population size, and the public services are well funded and impeccably maintained. Roswell’s award winning Parks & Rec Department boasts hundreds of acres of public recreation space, including a nature reserve that protects the natural beauty of the riverside town.

The business community continues to thrive and grow, particularly as many natives who were raised and educated in Roswell choose to stay and open their own establishments.

They, along with those who come specifically to Roswell to join the business community, are supporting a strong local economy that feeds itself through local spending, rising tourism and constant reinvestment in the community.

And yet, despite all of the growth, Roswell is anchored in a history and a culture that is distinctly southern and very “small town.” This is the secret to the city’s success. People have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the benefits of small town life, rich with community involvement, without losing any of the amenities associated with big city living.

There is no distinct line between the tourist expe-

Don’t Miss a Beat

And yet, despite all of the growth, Roswell is anchored in a history and a culture that is distinctly southern and very “small town.” This is the secret to the city’s success. rience and the native experience. Visitors are able to feel completely at home and actively live the life of a local. Roswell will continue to expand its horizons and provide limitless opportunity for business.

Yet, it will always retain the cozy, small town culture that gave it life.

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34 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • Sponsored Section

www.PetesPlumbing.com 2280 Justin Trail, Ste D Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-442-3934

Don’t let cataracts slow your life down What is a cataract and what is cataract surgery?

Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and today cataracts affect more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older.

At some point in our life, we will all develop a cataract.

The natural lens of the eye yellows and becomes cloudy with age as a result of biological changes of the proteins inside the lens. The function of the human lens is to focus incoming light onto the back of the eye. As your lens ages, light from the outside world becomes more and more distorted as it enters your eye. Difficulty reading, needing more light to read, experiencing glare and haloes at night and, even poor sleep patterns can be explained by cataract formation.

The treatment for cataracts involves an almost painless, 10 minute surgery to remove the “clouded lens” or “cataract” and replace it with a man made intraocular lens implant. It is the most common surgical procedure in the US and around the world and is considered to be an extremely successful and safe procedure with a success rate approaching 99.5%.

What is laser cataract surgery?

With traditional cataract surgery, all the steps of the surgery are customarily performed “manually” by the surgeon using handheld tools. Laser cataract surgery- the next evolution of cataract surgery with the Ziemer Z6 laser generally offers a greater amount of precision, predictability and safety to these steps leading to potentially improve visual outcomes and more precise targets.

With the Ziemer Z6 Laser System, your surgeon has the potential to offer you unmatched accuracy and a more predictable and customized cataract procedure.

Based on your medical history and pre-operative evaluation, you and your surgeon will discuss the options available for your desired visual result.

Together you can discuss a treatment plan which may include using the LDV Z6 to create the laser incisions in the cornea along with an advanced lens implant that may allow for improved near, intermediate or distance vision.

This tailored treatment may reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.

platform was FDA cleared in 2013.

How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery?

In traditional cataract surgery, incisions in the cornea are made using handheld instruments including blades to access the cataract. Your surgeon will then use a surgical device to manually create a circular opening in the lens capsule of the eye that holds the cataract. The Ziemer Z6 laser can be used to make the corneal incisions precise and the opening in the lens capsule as circular as possible, in the right location, and sized to fit the replacement lens.

Your surgeon can also use the laser to break up and soften the hard cataract.

Softening the lens with the laser enables your surgeon to then remove the cataract more gently and with significantly less ultrasound energy than is used in traditional manual cataract surgery.

dates for having some of the steps of cataract surgery performed with the Ziemer Z6 laser.

How long has the procedure been performed?

Thousands of cataract procedures have been successfully performed using femtosecond laser systems, and femtosecond lasers have been used in eye procedures for decades. The most familiar use of femtosecond laser technology is LASIK. Femtosecond lasers represent an advanced standard in precision laser cataract surgery and the Ziemer Z6

What should I expect on the day of surgery?

Your day in surgery should be no different than a routine cataract case.

The Ziemer Z6 laser is positioned next to the surgeon and is utilized seamlessly during the cataract surgery process.

You will be given mild IV sedation that will likely keep you pleasantly unaware of the goings on in surgery.

Not only is it potentially painless, there are no needles or stitches as part of the procedure.

What should I expect after surgery?

After surgery, you can generally expect your vision to be improved within 24 hours. Generally, you can get back to your normal life and activities with a clearer vision!

Please call 678-688-4575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter. com for more information on how to schedule your Cataract evaluation at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.

What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery?

• A highly customized treatment • A treatment with little or no discomfort • A potentially more precise and predictable treatment • By and large, a gentler and easier cataract removal • Generally, a more rapid visual recovery due to reduced inflammation The opportunity to receive tailored treatment with advanced technology multi-focal lenses, which may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery Am I a suitable candidate for laser cataract surgery?

You and your surgeon will decide whether you are a suitable candidate based on your eye anatomy, type of cataract and type of lens implant that you desire. Most patients are candi-

Sponsored Section • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 35

A “Best of” tips from the Interior Designers of Tuscany Fine Furnishings ...As showcased in the Northside Woman magazine

From the pages of Northside Woman Lighting has the potential to transform a room and is critical to a successful design plan. Proper lighting choices will make your space come Kathy McConnell alive. Without good lighting, all other details about your room will be dull or lost. Do you want a space to be warm and cozy or functional and practical? Is your personal preference hidden lighting, side lighting or overhead?

Ambient or mood lighting is exactly as it implies: lighting which will immediately evoke the type of emotion wanted for an event, a room or a project. This type of lighting is typically found in rooms that crave a dramatic flair. For instance, using a beautiful chandelier with intricate details will make a room come together.

Sophisticated lighting allows elegance to literally permeate every corner of the area. Pendant lighting is a stylish option instead of lamps on each side of your sofa or bed. Sophisticated lighting can be subtle touches or grandiose as

long as the lighting fixture is consistent with the furnishings and accessories.

Lighting that is rarely forgotten, however, is task lighting. Kitchen counters, desk tops or an overstuffed reading chair are all examples of where specific task lighting is needed. This type of light can be controlled individually or in a group.

Because lighting is so important to creating a comfortable room, you may start your decorating plan with the perfect fixture.

Breathe Life into your rooms Floral arrangements are a must-have in your accessory arsenal. Open up any home decor magazine and the photographs you love will almost Jenny McClanahan certainly have a botanical or plant whether you realize it or not. Rooms with a neutral color pallet will likely use a bold pop of color using a botanical. Colorfully furnished rooms often lend themselves to simple

36 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • Sponsored Section

greenery. Floral arrangements breathe life and vitality into a room like nothing else can.

Shapes, sizes and colors are limitless.

I use preserved arrangements in most rooms to accessorize bookcases, consoles and occasional tables. Then I pop a live arrangement in a gathering space like your breakfast or living room.

Bonus point with this formula: It will not break the bank or require a green thumb.

Interior design enjoying the process Enjoy the process! Whether starting with a blank slate or enhancing your existing living or work environment, surround yourself with furnishings and Peter J. Benedetto objects of art that bring you pleasure, creating a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle!

A good designer will recognize your style, help you define it, encourage and assist you in making choices that you are excited about!

Sometimes the attention to detail can become overwhelming, intimidat-

ing and frustrating forcing you to loose site of your overall project and vision.

This is when a good designer narrows your selection process to several perfect choices, presents them to you and once again allows you to enjoy the process!

We all know what we like and more importantly what we don’t like, be open to options that you never thought you would consider they may surprise you in a positive way and inspire your creativity.

Purge or merge is a question designers are often asked, this can become a very sensitive topic when the object of the purge is a treasure to one and the object needed to be merged is a desire of another.

Most designers are very skilled in mediation and become an advocate in defense of both, whenever possible make the merge simply relocating that “family heirloom” to another room is an option that becomes acceptable to both requests.

There are numerous suggestions and hints of advice that I could passionately offer, however if you take away just one, let it be that you enjoy the process!

Tuscany Fine Furnishings 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road STE. 315, Roswell GA. 30022.

Open M-F 10-6pm Sun. 1-5pm, 770-993-0640, tuscanyfinefurnishings.com.

Life should be fun…let us help!

• Visual Arts – Clay, Photography, Painting, and Collage • Performing Arts – Dance and Drama for all ages and interest levels m • Gymnastics – Learn, have fun or compete in our state of the art gymnasium • Adult Recreation Center – for Active Adults 50+ • Fitness • Youth and Adult Athletics • Family Fun – at our Parks, Pools and Playgrounds • Spray Grounds

Get connected…

Winner Park Roswell Area Park

The Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department is a proud finalist of the National Recreation and Park Association 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 Gold Medal Award of Excellence in Recreation and Park Management.

Details available at

www.roswellgov.com • 770-641-3705 or pick up a brochure at any of our recreation facilities

Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/cityof roswellga Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 37

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center is a true nature preserve, a passive park with 46 acres of ravine forest and about two miles of walking trails.

PARK IT City of Alpharetta The wildly popular city of Alpharetta Parks and Recreation Department offers a wealth of activities for multiple age groups.

With over 13 parks and recreation facilities and the Big Creek Greenway, the city is the place to be for residents who like to do things.

City parks include Rock Mill Park, 3100 Kimball Bridge Road; Cogburn Road Park, 12825 Cogburn Road; Wills Park, the Wills Park Equestrian Center and the Wills Park Recreation Center located on Wills Road at the corner of Old Milton Parkway (west of Ga. 400 and west of Highway 9); the Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell Street; the Crabapple Government Center/Alpharetta Arts Center, 12624 Broadwell Road; the Alpharetta City Pool, 1815 Old Milton Parkway, the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center, 13450 Cogburn Road; Union Hill Park, 1590 Little Pine Trail; Webb Bridge Park, 4780 Webb Bridge Road and the Windward Soccer Facility, 6435 Windward Parkway.

The city of Alpharetta provides several playgrounds with interactive play features for children of all ages at Cogburn Road Park, North Park, Webb Bridge Park, Westside Park and Wills Park.

City parks offer 14 youth baseball fields, four soccer fields, a dance and gymnastics facility, the North Park Adapted Sports Complex, an arboretum, 17 tennis courts, eight softball fields, seven playgrounds, four indoor gyms, two hockey rinks, two football

38 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Find out about the best parks in North Fulton and South Forsyth

fields, an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, a dog park, a community garden, a disk golf course and five walking trails and paths in addition to the Big Creek Greenway.

There are two parks for both small and larger dogs, and water fountains are available for both the pups and their human companions.

The city offers seven arts and craft rooms with three at the adult activity center at North Park, 13450 Cogburn Road, and four at the Crabapple Government Center/Alpharetta Arts Center, 12624 Broadwell Road.

For more information, check out the city website at alpharetta.ga.us.

City of Johns Creek The city of Johns Creek offers four fun parks where residents can play, exercise and relax.

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, is a true nature preserve, a passive park with 46 acres of ravine forest and about two miles of walking trails. The park is popular with nature buffs and families looking to enjoy nature at its finest.

Autrey Mill’s Heritage Center includes several historical buildings with replica Native American dwellings and a visitor’s center that houses live animal displays.

Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, offers three softball/baseball fields, three multi-purpose athletic fields, six tennis courts, two outdoor basketball courts and a two-mile multi-use path for walking, running

and hiking. The courts were recently refurbished and repainted.

The park includes 13 picnic pavilions and a popular dog park along with a community garden, two playgrounds with all-new equipment and a small lake.

Residents 62 years old and up especially like Park Place at Newtown School, the city’s premier adult center.

The center offers free and low-cost activities such as bridge, movie matinees and bingo as well as yoga, Zumba, potluck lunches, day trips to the Georgia Aquarium and North Georgia wineries and computer classes.

The Johns Creek Veterans Association is located at Park Place. The JCVA enriches the lives of Johns Creek’s veterans through events, programs and activities tailored to the interests of military men and women.

The association had embarked on a project to build the Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk at Newtown Park, a landscaped trail with black-granite monuments for each major conflict dating from World War I. The Newtown Community Garden, managed by the Johns Creek Garden Association, is located within the park and contains 41 4-by-8 raised beds, two handicapped beds and four tall planting tables.

Ocee Park, 10900 Buice Road, is another active park with eight lighted softball/baseball fields, a playground, two recently re-sealed and re-striped tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts and two outdoor basketball courts. The park also includes four picnic pavilions and half-mile walking/

jogging track. For a quick park run during errands, Ocee is the park of choice and you’ll find toddlers and elementaryaged school children playing on the playground all summer long.

Shakerag Park, 10945 Rogers Circle, includes a 3.8-acre lake, a playground and three picnic shelters, all perfect for enjoying a fun day close to home. For the athlete, there are three multi-purpose athletic fields, a refurbished quarter-mile track and a nature trail.

For more information on the city’s park and recreation programs, visit johnscreekga.gov.

City of Roswell The city of Roswell offers a variety of programs and services ranging from sports and recreation activities to special and historical events. Roswell pays special attention to all age groups and offers something for everyone.

With several locations for activities spread throughout the city, finding an event or program based on convenience and location is simple.

A community of tradition and history, Roswell offers a wide variety of yearly special events including springtime on the Chattahoochee, an annual Easter egg hunt and Christmas activities.

Roswell also offers a variety of programs for their senior community.

Residents over 50 or can participate in the many programs, special events, classes and activities held at the Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road.

Fowler Park in Forsyth, voted first runner for best park, boasts an impressive skate park that has something to offer for skaters of all skill levels.

The center has a billiards room, computer learning center, arts and crafts room, library and a ballroom.

The fitness center there is a new 2,500-square-foot facility with state of the art cardio and strength equipment, a private stretching room, lockers and showers. Don’t worry if you’re not experienced with working out, the facility is designed with novice and expert fitness buffs in mind.

Soon to be one of the city’s most popular activities in Roswell is its spraygrounds, the city’s two premiere outdoor water entertainment centers.

Both the Splash ‘n Play, Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road and the Spray Station, East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, open Memorial Day Weekend.

Both locations offer a different variety of spray features, a concession stand and a rental pavilion. Passes can be purchased at one location and used at both or the pass can be added to the Roswell Area Park Pool Pass. Both parks are available for rental for birthday parties and special events.

The Roswell Area Park Pool, 10495 Woodstock Road, is a 50-meter Olym-

pic size pool with eight lap lanes, a diving well with two spring boards, and it includes a children’s wading pool with a mushroom waterfall.

Family members can participate in swimming lessons, aquatic exercise, swim team, free swim and other events.

The pool includes a Bermuda grass beach and concession stand so bring the whole family for a fun day of swimming. The pool is open Saturday, May 25 through Labor Day and season passes are available through the city.

Make sure to check the city website for special events held throughout the summer at the pool.

Roswell Rapids Swim Team is a competitive swim team offered through the city with practices held at the community pool. It offers a comprehensive program of instruction and training for competitive swimming for swimmers aged 5 to 18 years old. For more information on the swim team, visit roswellrapids.org.

The Roswell Parks and Recreation program includes youth and adult sports for all seasons such as lacrosse, basketball, baseball, football and

soccer. Activities and sports-related programs are available for most age groups for those who aren’t interested or ready to be on a team.

For more information about programs and activities offered through the Roswell Parks and Recreation Department, visit their website at roswellgov. com.

City of Milton Since the city of Milton’s inception, government officials have worked hard to give the city a small town community feel and offer programs and activities focused on entertaining and enhancing the community.

Known as an equestrian-friendly community, you’ll find Milton’s Parks and Recreation Department offers a growing list of programs and special events for more than just the horse lover.

The city offers three parks and two community centers and has worked with the Fulton County Board of Education on shared parks located throughout Milton.

Bell Memorial Park, 15245 Bell Park Road, is an active-use park with four

baseball fields, pavilions, picnic areas, parking, concessions and a playground. It will be getting a face lift starting Memorial Day 2014 until Memorial Day 2015. The park will be closed for the duration of the update.

Bethwell Community Center, 2695 Hopewell Road, was recently renovated where many of the parks and recreation programs and activities and summer camps are held.

Birmingham Park, 750 Hickory Flat Road, is a 200-acre park, located behind Fire Station No. 43 at 750 Hickory Flat Road.

The park is currently undeveloped, but is a hot spot for hikers, dog walkers and horseback riders.

Crabapple Community Center, 12615 Broadwell Road, is not currently open, but once plans for the property are developed, the city will notify residents.

Friendship Community Park, 12785 Birmingham Highway, is a 1.81 acre park that opened Dec. 1, 2012. The park is a joint venture with the Fulton County School System. Located be-

See PARKS, Page 43 Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 39

The Manor House Terrace Gardens.

Delightful daytrip Jim

bbs Gi

By KATIE VanBRACKLE When Jim Gibbs began designing his 220-acre public garden in Ball Ground, Ga., he sought the advice and approval of his mother, Margaret, who would join him for long walks through the wooded property.

When she reached a particularly scenic spot, Margaret would stop and say, “This looks like a good place to sit for a spell,” and the two would pause to admire the view and listen to the sounds of water flowing through streams and birds singing in the treetops.

Gibbs later installed a bench in each of his mother’s favorite spots. Today, 126 benches dot the grounds of Gibbs Gardens, inviting visitors to pause and soak up the beauty of this delightful hidden gem, located less than an hour’s drive from the North Fulton area.

Beginning with a Daffodil Festival in March, the gardens remain open through December, with each month bringing new blossoms such as azaleas, dogwoods, roses, hydrangeas, rhododendron and daylilies, enhancing Mother Nature’s own displays of green woodland ferns, fall wildflowers and vivid autumn leaves.

Gibbs spent years traveling the globe, studying landscape design in Asia and Europe. These international influences are most dramatically displayed in the 40acre Japanese Garden, the largest in the nation, a beautiful, peaceful oasis at any time of year, but especially dramatic in the fall when Japanese maples display their brilliant reds and oranges.

The $20 admission fee to Gibbs Gardens can be applied toward a Four-Season Membership ($50), allowing unlimited garden visits and admission to special events held throughout the year such as the Music in the Gardens series.

40 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

The Monet Water Lily Garden.

Daffodils at GIbbs Gardens

Weekend getaway

By KATIE VANBRACKLE Every now and then, it’s important to take time to unplug, unwind and get back to basics – reconnecting with each other and with Mother Nature. Fortunately, we live in a state blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, and Georgia’s state parks make it easy to plan a simple, scenic getaway.

My family and some friends took advantage of a long weekend recently to plan a quick, overnight stay at Fort Mountain State Park in northwest Georgia, near Chatsworth. From Alpharetta, it only took an hour and a half to reach cool, mountain elevations with beautiful views of early fall color. We chose to drive along Highway 52, making stops at Ellijay apple orchards for fresh cider and fruit pastries.

Fort Mountain State Park, located near the Cohutta Wilderness, offers some of the prettiest trails in Georgia for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.

Guided hikes are offered throughout the fall, featuring spectacular mountain scenery. One popular trail leads to an ancient rock wall which stands on the highest point of the mountain. Theories abound as to its origins.

There are 70 campsites, including a first-time camper program complete with borrowed gear and expert advice for the adventurous novice. We opted for a less rustic experience and rented one of the park’s newly renovated cottages – very cozy with modern amenities, trendy décor, a fully stocked kitchen and a wide screened porch with rocking chairs. Similar cabin renovations are in the works for other state parks, including F.D. Roosevelt, Hard Labor Creek, Indian Springs and Crooked River, making the affordable cottages an even better deal.

On the morning of our departure, the high school kids in our bunch went out for an early morning run on the Big Rock Trail, which looped through the misty morning woods near our cabin. No phones, no texting, no pop music, no Starbucks. Just good company, fresh air and beautiful scenery. Back to basics. That’s what it’s all about.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 41

THE POWER OF DANCE

By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON

Those who have a regular fitness program usually have a “go-to” exercise, something they do consistently, but studies show doing the same thing repeatedly eventually stops working.

Stagnant exercise programs eventually stop creating change both on the outside and the inside. Unfortunately, not everyone knows what to do about that.

Fifty-seven-year-old Ofelia de La Valette found the solution.

Back in the 1990s at age 34, de La Valette, having recently given birth to her second child, worked to run the 25 pounds of baby weight off on a gym treadmill. But the music in the aerobics room was too strong to resist.

The next thing she knew, she was working up a sweat with a group of women instead of alone on the treadmill.

De La Valette wasn’t doing aerobics. She was dancing – and she loved it.

That first dance fitness class shifted the direction of de La Valette’s life.

“Dance transformed my life,” she said.

Not only did it change her physical shape, it changed her on the inside too.

In 2004, at 46, that internal change came full circle and became her life’s passion. She opened her first adult-only dance studio, Dance 101, in Atlanta and 10 years later, her second loca-

Ofelia de La Valette, owner of Dance 101.

Photo by DavidRamsPhotography.com

42 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

See DANCE, Page 43

Dance:

Continued from Page 42 tion in Alpharetta opened, too.

“The studios are unique in that we apply the art of dance to fitness,” she said. “Something very uplifting happens to people when they dance in a nurturing, supportive environment, and that kind of magic happens here daily.”

De La Valette said the classes have the artistic integrity of top notch studios with the added attention to fitness.

“It’s an amazing thing to watch our members’ bodies change while they’re doing something they love,” she said.

Necia Porter, 63, agrees. Disillusioned with her regular gym workouts, Porter decided to give Dance 101 a shot.

“I absolutely love the classes,” she said.

Since the studio is adult-only, classes are designed specifically for adults.

“We understand what an adult body needs, how it moves, how to make it move better,” de La Valette

said.

Porter said she was hooked after her first class.

“There are classes for ballet, stretching, salsa, hip hop – everything, and we all have a wonderful time in them,” she said.

She said the studios offer a personal, nurturing atmosphere and women of all ages feel comfortable even if they have never stepped foot on a dance floor.

“The instructors are excellent and make something that could be intimidating to some, simply a wonder-

ful experience that makes you want to continue to come back,” Porter said.

De La Valette’s experience caught the attention of actor and philanthropist Marlo Thomas, who featured her in her new book, “It Ain’t Over … Till It’s Over!” (Simon & Schuster, $27).

“The book is about 60 different women who reinvented themselves, most after the age of 40 and in wonderful ways,” de La Valette said.

Dance 101 offers several classes daily in both Atlanta and Alpharetta.

For more information, visit atlanta. dance101.org

Parks:

Continued from Page 39 tween Crabapple Crossing Elementary and Northwestern Middle School, it features a small picnic pavilion, walking path, half-court basketball and a play field.

The park is closed to the general public during school hours, so children at both schools can enjoy the park.

Freedom Park, 13200 Deerfield Parkway, is an exercise center for runners, cyclists and walkers and is also where the city holds its patriotic events. It has a .15 mile trail and equipment for sit ups and body curls, as well as rowing and elliptical machines.

Providence Park, 13440 Providence Park Drive, is a 40 acre park currently under possession for maintenance by Fulton County and will belong to the city of Milton once the cleanup plan is complete.

Since the city is still young, they’ve partnered with the city of Alpharetta to offer Alpharetta Parks and Recreation programs without non-resident fees.

This arrangement allows Milton families a long list of activities for all age groups in both Milton and nearby Alpharetta.

The city offers specialty summer and athletic camps through arrangements with the Hopewell Youth Baseball Association, the YMCA and the city of Alpharetta.

They’ve also partnered with other sport programs such as lacrosse, listing all of their programs in their activity guide.

For more information about what the Milton Parks and Recreation Department has to offer, visit the city website at cityofmiltonga.us.

Forsyth County The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department offers recreational programs for people of all ages. With 22 parks and three recreation centers and about 2,400 acres of passive and active use land, you’re sure find something for every family member to enjoy.

The county offers athletic fields for all of the popular rectangular and diamond field sports, tennis courts, playgrounds, lake access, camping, trail and track running and walking paths, an outdoor mountain bike path, dog parks, indoor gyms and a skate

park.

The county also offers outdoor programs including nature awareness, adventures such as tree climbing and indoor programs such as arts and crafts, fitness, dance and music.

The county’s parks and recreation system includes about 36 miles of trails and the award-winning Sawnee Mountain Preserve, 4075 Spot Road in Cumming.

The 963 acres include the beautiful views from the historic rock formations known as the Indian Seats, where birdwatchers and hikers spend afternoons enjoying a little slice of heaven.

The spot is a popular place for high school boys to request prom dates with signs and surprises, using the rocking chair porch to add a romantic touch.

For the adventure seekers in the county, one can choose to climb the rocks or enjoy the tree canopy walk to view the mountain from the treetops.

Another popular offering of the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department is the 6.8-mile Big Creek Greenway.

Forsyth County Parks and Recreation has three

recreation centers, all offering amenities for fun, hobbies and fitness.

The centers feature basketball gymnasiums, indoor walking tracks and cardio/weight membership rooms, and offer a variety of programs and activities.

The recreation centers are located at: Central Park Recreation Center, 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming; Fowler Park Recreation Center, 4110 Carolene Way in Cumming; and Old Atlanta Park Recreation Center, 810 Nichols Road in Suwanee.

For more information and a schedule of events, visit the county website at forsythco.com.

The city of Cumming also offers county residents a place to cool off and go for dip.

The Aquatic Center and Water Park, 201 Aquatic Circle, off Pilgrim Mill Road and off Exit 16 on Ga. 400. Inside the center are Olympic swimming pools for training and competition. During the spring and summer, the outdoor water park opens for children of all ages.

For more information, visit cummingaquaticcenter. com.

Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014 • 43

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Top five destinations to float down the river Toccoa River Tubing The Toccoa River, located in north Georgia, offers great float trips for families with young children. Children must be at least 5 years of age. Located at 340 Toccoa Ave., McCaysville, Ga. 30555. Call 706-492-5280 or visit www.tubingthetoccoariver.com.

Helen Tubing and Water Park

Tucked in the North Georgia mountains, Helen, Ga., is home to the Cool River Tubing Company and the Helen Tubing and Water Park.

The Helen Tubing Company drops visitors off at the top of the river where they can continue onto their tubing trip.

Visitors can enjoy the Chattahoochee River and relaxation all day long.

Located at 9917 Georgia 75, Helen, Ga. 30545. Call 706-878-1082 or visit www.helentubing.com.

Strasse, Helen, Ga. 30545. Call 706878-2665 or visit www.coolrivertubing. com.

Chattahoochee Outfitters

Float down the Chattahoochee with Chattahooche Outfitters in Roswell, Ga.

Headquartered in Roswell, Chattahoochee Outfitters offers tubing starting at Azaela Park. Children must be at least 5 years of age. Headquarters are located on the river and dining options are provided.

Find them at 203 Azalea Dr., Roswell, Ga. 30075, call 770-650-100 or visit www.shootthehooch.com for more

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Cool River Tubing Company Enjoy quality time with friends and family on the Chattahoochee River, which flows through the scenic Alpine

village in Helen, Ga. Minimum age for tubing is 3 years old and at least one participant over the age of 18 must be present at all times.

Alcohol is not permitted. All tube trips include U.S. Coast Guardapproved life preservers and shuttle service. Located at 590 Edelweiss

Appalachian Outfitters The tubing trips last about 45 to 30 minutes on the Chestatee River in Dahlonega, Ga. Guests are welcome to enjoy a picnic in the middle of their trip at the designated picnic area. Children must be at least 4 years of age to participate.

Find them at 2084 S. Chestatee, Dahlonega, Ga. 30533. Call 706-8646156 or visit www.canoegeorgia.com.

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR

CHECK OUT...

Visit AppenMed iaGroup.co m for even m ore events in your are a.

Who says you need to go into Atlanta to have a great time?

Read up on which events are the must-go for 2014-2015.

Eat your heart out Alpharetta

Brew Moon Fest • June and October 2015 • 6:30 – 11 p.m.

• Downtown Alpharetta, 35 Milton Avenue • $10 per person • More info at awesomealpharetta. com Alpharetta holds this outdoor event in both June and October, as a to celebrate with family and friends while drinking beer, wine and eating food from Alpharetta’s best restaurants.

Come down and join the rest of the city for one big street party with live music and merriment all night long.

Food Truck Alley • April – October 2015 • Thursdays, 5 – 9 p.m.

• Downtown Alpharetta, 37 Old Roswell Street • More info at awesomealpharetta. com Food Truck Alley sees a rotating assortment of food trucks rolling through Old Roswell Street each Thursday from April to October. A great way to kick the weekend off a little bit early with the whole family, even your pets.

Cumming

Cumming Country Fair and Festival • October 2015 • Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road • More info at cummingfair.net

The Cumming Country Fair and Festival is a fun and affordable family event with plenty for everyone to enjoy. Carnival rides, petting zoo, live music and a Heritage and Indian Village.

house, hot chocolate and photos with Santa Claus, a bonfire and the return of the “North Pole Passport” program featuring local businesses.

Taste of Forsyth • April 2015 • Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road • More info at cummingfair.net The annual Taste of Forsyth and Easter Egg Hunt return to the Cumming Fairgrounds. The event will feature more than 25 restaurants, the Egg Hunt, and a Touch-a-Truck event for kids.

Johns Creek Arts Festival • October 2015 • Athletic Fields across from 1930 Bobby Jones Drive • More info at johnscreekartsfestival. com A juried arts festival featuring a lot of other entertainment as well, from a pet parade to fireworks. Support all sorts of local artists, and just all around have a great time.

Johns Creek

Milton

Roswell

Christmas in Crabapple • December, 2015 • Historic Downtown Crabapple, 765 Broadwell Road • More info at cityofmiltonga.us There’s sure to be heaps of holiday cheer in Milton during the annual Christmas in Crabapple. There will be Christmas, Hanukkah and holiday music favorites, a holiday bounce

Colors Festival of Arts • May 2015 • More info at visitroswellga.com Artists and craftsmen arrive from areas around the Southeast, joining with Roswell and North Fulton artists to present a magnificent show.

Entertainment is scheduled throughout the day and ranges from storytelling to vocalists, instrumentalists to dance performances.

Crabapple Fest • Ocotber 2015 • Historic Downtown Crabapple, 765 Broadwell Road • More info at cityofmiltonga.us An incredible fall festival for the community, including antiques and art, live music and entertainment, games, rides and activities for kids and more.

Youth day parade • October 2015 • Canton Street and Woodstock Road Come for the parade, stay for festival immediately following the parade in Roswell Area Park. There will ne activities for the entire family.

Who’s playing tonight?

The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre features performances by today’s leading artists and the Grammy-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The 12,000seat state-of-the art venue provides a unique setting for music lovers. See who’s playing at vzwamp.com

46 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014

Alpharetta is home to arguably the biggest dining festival of the Southeast, The Taste of Alpharetta.

Historic Downtown Alpharetta is transformed into food-city with over 60 different vendors serving appetizers, entrees and desserts.

2015 marks the 24th year of the festival and will attract around 50,000 families and foodies.

The Taste of Alpharetta, the premiere dining festival of the Southeast and now in its 24th year, will be held in historic downtown Alpharetta. The festival, which attracts 50,000 families and foodies.

The Taste takes place May 7, 2015 from 5 – 10 p.m. Admission is free, but patrons must purchase tickets which can be reedemed for food.

Visit awesomealpharetta.com for more info.

Stayin’ alive (after 5) Canton Street in Roswell becomes the hip hangout the third Thursday from April through October.

Enjoy live music, vendors, food trucks and more.

Alive After Five is perfect for the family, girls night out or enjoying with your pet.

The fun happens from 5 – 9 p.m.

Visit aliveafterfiveroswell.com for more info.

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Roswell, GA is a place dedicated to being local.

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Whether you are looking to relocate your family, your business or just yourself - you will find all the assistance you need to be a part of a classic, southern town with a distinct quality of life.

Roswell, GA has the tools in place to helpa bigourimpa local businesses thrive, directly contributing to the strong local economy. With an active, diverse and unique community, Roswell, GA is the place to become a local, and stay a local.

BE A LOCAL in Roswell, Georgia

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678.823.4004 roswellinc.org 48 • Lifestyles Answer Book™ 2014