Northside Woman June 2012

JUne JUNE 2012 2012

Best

Beach Reads New novels from local authors

Sole Sisters Lacing up for a half-marathon page 14

page 20

Design Time Trends from High Point page 12

Shape Up! Fitness fads to try page 22

2 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s board-certified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road.

We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands.

Visit us online at www.northside.com.

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 3

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

STAFF Candy waylock editorial candy@northsidewoman.com Candy Waylock began working for Appen Newspapers in 1997, primarily as a reporter covering education issues for the weekly publications. She earned her degree in Journalism from Bradley University in 1987 and has been a member of the media ever since. In 2007, Candy helped launch Northside Woman magazine and continues to be a part of each monthly publication. She lives in Alpharetta with her husband, three children and a houseful of rescued pets!

thecover the New

bestselling

where she balances her writing career with the many demands of being a wife and mother. Karen always sets her stories in the South where she feels deeply connected

Katie VanBrackle inherited a strong creative itch from her artist mother. Too impatient to paint, she chooses instead to capture the human spirit on the page with words. Using her journalism degree from UGA, she enjoys exploring the amazing, brave, funny, generous things people do.

Katie lives in Milton with her husband and two sons. She dashes between schools, church and sports fields as a volunteer and depends on her sense of humor and girls’ nights out to stay sane.

to the land, the people and the way of life. In our cover photo, ES PHOTO BY TONI RIAL

she gets some Gulf Coast sand

Raised in New Jersey and Tennessee, the product of a Northern mother and a Southern father, Kelly Brooks can’t help but explore every side of the story. In 2006, she earned a bachelor ’s degree in telecommunication arts from the University of Georgia. After working as a reporter, she attended the University of Maryland, where she earned a master ’s in multimedia journalism and took a liking to graphic design. She has been a production artist for Appen since 2010.

between her toes on Dauphin Island, Alabama. Read more about Karen White in this month’s She Reads feature on page 6.

THIS PHOTO & COVER

Kelly Brooks production manager kelly@northsidewoman.com

publisher’snote Summer has arrived! I don’t know about you, but I plan on spending as much time as possible at the beach over the next few months, taking long walks along the shore, searching for shells and soaking up the sunshine. As usual, I’m bringing along the latest issue

Devon Morgan photographer devon@photosynthesisatlanta.com

of Northside Woman, as well as a tote bag full of novels.

To help you with your literary selections, this issue features several new books by talented

Devon Morgan opened PhotoSynthesis Studio in 2004 after graduating with a photojournalism degree from the University of Georgia. To complement the documentary style she learned in school, Morgan studied with local photographers to master the subtle nuances of fine art portraiture, giving her clients a cohesive blend of natural emotion and beautiful lighting. See her work at www.PhotoSynthesisAtlanta.com.

authors who just happen to live in our own backyard.

Our She Reads column spotlights Milton author Karen White whose latest novel is set on St. Simons Island and promises a perfect summer story. Check out pages 20-21 for even more books by local literary ladies.

To help you look even better by the pool this summer, we’ve discovered several unique fitness trends to jazz up your exercise routines, as well as tips on keeping your sun-

Christina Appen christina@northsidewoman.com

Times

author Karen White lives in Milton

Katie vanBrackle editorial katie@northsidewoman.com

publisher

York

associate publisher

Ray Appen ray@northsidewoman.com

sales executives

Cynthia@northsidewoman.com, Hans@northsidewoman.com, Helen@northsidewoman.com, June@northsidewoman.com, Linda@northsidewoman.com, Lynn@northsidewoman.com, Mike@northsidewoman.com, Pam@northsidewoman.com, Wendy@northsidewoman.com

sales assistant

advertising@northsidewoman.com

production

David Brown, Kellie Jureka, Geoffrey Thurow production@northsidewoman.com Northside Woman is published monthly and distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. ©2012 Appen Newspapers Inc. All rights reserved.

No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.

4 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

worn tresses sleek and stylish.

Speaking of style, how about a mini-home makeover?

Local interior designer Allison Havill Todd recently returned from the spring High Point Market for home furnishings and shares the latest in colors and design trends.

And, of course, we celebrate our wonderful dads in June. Looking for a place to take your dear old Dad on Father’s Day? Our Good Eats column features 5 Seasons North, an Alpharetta brewpub that creates delicious food and beer using all-natural ingredients from Georgia’s small organic farms.

So, welcome summer! And don’t forget to take Northside Woman along to help you with all of your warmweather adventures.

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june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 5

shereads

Karen White and fellow writer Wendy Wax chat with fans on the patio of the Roswell Woman’s Club Showcase Home in May.

KATIE VANBRACKLE

Karen White: the author next door

Milton Mom writes bestselling “Grit Lit” novels about Southern women

By KAtie vAnBrACKLe

unsettling ability to communicate with ghosts

draws upon some of her favorite themes---

katie@northsidewoman.com

inhabiting stately homes on Tradd, Legare

multiple generations of a single family, hidden

and Montague Streets.

secrets and the quest to find a place to call

Karen White takes my phone call via

White writes about the South because “it’s

portable headset while emptying the dryer

what I know.” She needs to feel an emotional

and folding clothes. Her daughter arrived

connection to an area and its people before

“My characters are always southern

home from college the night before bearing

forming a story there. When preparing to

protagonists with a crisis,” she said. “They

huge loads of laundry. Her son is graduating

write a novel, she likes to immerse herself in

usually don’t know where to go and need a

from high school later in the week. Some work

the book’s setting which means long working

good kick in the pants to get started. I write

is being done on the house and construction

vacations to spots like Folly Beach, South

about people who are flawed and try to

crews come and go at all hours. The dog is

Carolina and Biloxi, Mississippi.

overcome obstacles. After all, we read to be

digging in the trash can. Again.

Welcome to a typical day in the life of this

entertained, but also to learn.”

We all must suffer for our work,” she says with a

New York Times bestselling author.

wink.

She describes “Sea Change” as a

contemporary Southern gothic tale.

“It’s difficult, but I manage.

busy Milton mom who also happens to be a White discovered a natural talent for

home.

“I want to make you laugh and cry, but when you finish the book you shouldn’t want to stick your head in

White time

recently

an oven. I will drag your emotions

on

over the coals and I don’t always

writing after leaving her corporate job to

spent

St.

become a stay-at-home mom. Her first book

Simons

Island,

tie things up with a neat bow, but I

was published in 2000. Since then, she has

Georgia, the setting

promise my characters will always

written fourteen novels, including “The Beach

for her latest novel,

be in a better place at the end.”

Trees” and “The Strangers on Montagu Street”

“Sea Change” which

White may be an acclaimed author, but at home she is simply

both of which debuted at number fourteen

“Mom.”

on the New York Times bestseller list.

“My family is only vaguely

White calls her fictional tales about southern women “grit lit.”

aware that I do something

“The Strangers on Montagu

outside of the home,” she said

Street”

is

part

of

with a laugh.

White’s

“They interrupt me regularly

popular Tradd Street mystery describes

when I am working. Honey, do

meets

you know where that Costco

‘National Treasure’ meets ‘Sixth

See wHite, Page 8

series as

which

she

“’Moonlighting’

Sense’.” Set in Charleston, South Carolina, the lead character in

the

series

discovers

an

6 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

TANNER PHOTOGRAPHY

◄ New York Times bestselling author Karen White lives in Milton. Karen’s dog Quincy is a popular character in her Tradd Street mystery series.

▲From top to bottom: The House on Tradd Street, The Girl on Legare Street, The Strangers on Montagu Street, Falling Home, The Beach Trees, On Folly Beach.

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wHite, Continued from Page 6

at unexpected moments and almost never when she is actually writing.

receipt is? Mom, do I have any clean

Such extended creative retreats are possible now that White’s youngest

“ The best ideas usually come

child is preparing to leave the nest. She

They don’t understand that

when I’m folding laundry or doing

recently posted thoughts regarding this

writers need to be in ‘the zone’ and

other trivial every day stuff. That’s

latest family milestone on her personal

when you are distracted, it can take

when the subconscious kicks in.

blog.

an hour or more to regain your focus.”

most recent story idea came from a

“Yesterday, my youngest child

White spends about three hours

quote of the day in my email. It read

(my “baby”), graduated from high

a day in her office taking care of the

‘All shut-eye ain’t sleep; all goodbye

school. There were many instructions

business end of things, answering

ain’t gone’ from the Gullah culture in

for the seniors, but what about for their

emails and posting to her blog and

South Carolina’s lowcountry. Suddenly

parents who would find themselves

Facebook page.

Then she grabs

I heard the first line of a book and saw

minus one child come fall? Is our work

her laptop, whistles for Quincy, her

the first scene. People started talking

done? Time to retire? To curl up in a

Havanese lap dog, and escapes to a

to me and images started flashing.

ball and gather dust?

socks?

My

lounge chair on her screened porch.

Sometimes writing can be tortuous,

I’ve had fifteen novels published in

“I can’t write while sitting upright at a

staring at the computer screen sticking

the last eleven years, and I think that

desk,” she said. “I have to be reclined

knitting needles in your eyes. At other

sort of longevity in the publishing world

and comfortable. Writing is a very

times it flows freely, almost uninvited.”

might tell you that I’m not the type to

draining process mentally.”

Until the Tradd Street series is

roll over or go away just because the

Loyal Quincy, whom White calls

complete—the final book comes out

game rules have suddenly changed.

“Velcro Dog” for his insistence on being

in January, 2014-- White will continue

Success is about seeing opportunity in

attached to her side every moment of

writing two books per year which

change---something I’ve learned the

the day, enjoys his own fan following

means a major balancing act between

hard way in my writing career. Facing

after being included as a character in

the many demands on her time.

this fall with no kids at home is like

the Tradd Street series.

of

starting a new book. It’s a little scary,

“He tries to take full credit for

appearances this summer for “Sea

a little thrilling, completely new, but

those stories, but he never succeeds,”

Change,” she plans to escape to the

wonderfully and wholly overwhelming

she said. “People know he can’t type

family’s new beach house in Florida

at its endless well of opportunity.

without opposable thumbs.”

to spend the entire month of October

Inspiration for White’s novels comes

After

writing.

8 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

a

whirlwind

tour

A blank page can be a glorious thing.”

• Scan this QR code with your smart phone to view a short video about Karen’s latest novel, “Sea Change,” set on St. Simons Island. The video can also be viewed at youtube.com/watch?v= 5KLtFRUkF78&feature=share.

• Read more about “Sea Change” and the opportunity to meet Karen on pages 20-21.

• To learn more about Karen White, visit karen-white.com.

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goodeats

Celebrating the Fifth Season Alpharetta brewpub serves farm-fresh comfort food

stOrY & PHOtOs

produce is at its most flavorful and

By KAtie vAnBrACKLe

abundant.

katie@northsidewoman.com

Chef

and

co-owner

Above: 5 Seasons North is located on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta. Left: Over 100 unique beers are brewed each year at 5 Seasons North.

David

Larkworthy receives regular deliveries Treating dear old Dad to a manly

of freshly harvested produce from a

own pizza dough and bagels,” he

meal this Father’s Day? Try 5 Seasons

number of local organic micro farms,

recalled. “I learned early on the

North in Alpharetta where he can

a market he is eager to support. 5

value of growing food in your own

experience his favorite comfort foods

Seasons meats and seafood are

community.”

in a fresh new way.

all-natural and locally produced.

5 Seasons North’s use of fresh,

Larkworthy enjoys taking the

wholesome ingredients makes it a

organic grass-fed beef burger piled

bounty of the state’s organic

popular choice for those with food

high with all-natural bacon and

harvest and transforming it into

allergies. Gluten Free Monday is held

homemade

delicious, creative dishes such

each week and grilled pizzas can

spicy blackened fish tacos washed

as grilled rib eye steak with wilted

be made gluten-free by request any

down with a refreshing chilled pint of

spinach salad, shitake mushrooms,

day.

watermelon beer.

fingerling potatoes and red wine

Bet Dad would love a Georgia

pimento

cheese.

Or

Yes, you read correctly. About

Larkworthy’s enthusiasm for farmfresh flavor is shared by Brewmaster

reduction. unique, affordable dining experience

Crawford Moran who uses traditional

each time they visit.

methods to create about 100 different

1,000 pounds of pureed organic

For those who want a variety

Georgia-grown watermelon is added

of flavors, tapas-style “little plates”

to a delicious wheat ale, creating

include Gulf shrimp and cheddar grit

one of 5 Seasons North’s most popular

cakes as well as grilled coca-crusted

awards

to

“corked and caged” beers aged in

brews. This summery concoction hits

lamb chops with mint glaze.

sustainability and support of local

oak, whiskey or wine barrels. Moran

farmers.

Larkworthy has received culinary for

commitment

your

enjoys working with local farmers

week of June, when watermelons are

alligator bites, delivered straight from

food’s source gives you confidence

to create seasonal brews such as

ripe for the picking.

a sustainable gator farm in Louisiana.

in its quality and he likes having

peach beer, pumpkin beer and the

The restaurant’s name refers to

“They would eat you so don’t

control over the food in his kitchen.

ever-popular watermelon ale.

the peak, or “5 ,” season when local

feel guilty about eating them,” jokes

Or

the menu during the second or third

th

try

the

cornmeal-crusted

He

his says

knowing

brews each year including specialty

Preservatives are never used.

Enjoy it while it lasts, for when

alligator

“We bake our own breads and

Georgia’s watermelon season ends,

farmer Dean Stinson’s delivery truck is

buns, make our own ice creams and

the menu will change yet again,

fueled by rendered alligator fat.

sorbets, butcher our own meats and

keeping things new and interesting

fish, and make our own sauces and

year-round.

Larkworthy,

noting

that

Diners at 5 Seasons are handed two

menus.

One

remains

fairly

salad dressings,” he said.

North

is

a

great

compromise spot for guys wanting

based on what comes in fresh from

began during his boyhood. His father,

a cold brew and a hearty meal and

the farms. Up to 20-30 new specials

also a chef, supported the farm-to-

gals wanting an interesting dining

are created daily and the beer list

table movement “before it was cool.”

experience in a casual, upscale

“We ate things from our garden,

atmosphere. So go ahead. Treat

is

constantly

changing,

allowing

customers to have a completely

roasted

whole

5 seAsONs NORTH

culinary

Seasons

training

constant and another changes daily

Larkworthy’s

5

pigs,

3655 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-521-5551 • 5seasonsbrewing.com

5 Seasons North co-owner and Chef david Larkworthy.

10 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

made

our

dear old Dad---and yourself as well!

Dishes from left to right: Grilled ravioli served with crawfish, Andouille sausuage, sweet onion, asparagus and spicy parmesan cream ($19).

Cornmeal crusted Louisiana alligator served with slaw and a spicy remoulade sauce ($9). Blackened fish tacos served with avocado tomatillo sauce, yellow rice and black beans ($15).

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her herstyle Grays, oranges, nature inspire latest design trends

By ALLisOn HAviLL tODD

garden stools taken at the High Point

President, AHT Interiors www.ahtinteriors.com

Market. Garden stools galore!

shades of gray

tangerine is tops This season’s design trends were recently previewed in High Point, N.C., at the dozens of showrooms that make the city the center of the design industry. On a recent trip to the spring High Point Market for home furnishings, I viewed the latest in trends and colors and am eager to share these designs for your home.

This

natural elements

trend

refers

to

pieces

that maintain a classic style while incorporating more casual textures and weathered finishes. The linen upholstered dining chair, distressed farmhouse style table and weathered finishes

in

the

cabinets

are

a

great example of this style (photo compliments of Bernhardt furniture and AHT Interiors).

In The

use

of

nature-inspired

the

design

of

elements continues to be strong, with

the cabinet,

designs and materials that echo what

a

is found in nature. Examples of this are

weathered

found in driftwood accent tables and

finish

a weathered wood cocktail table

with antiqued

from Bernhardt. Shell lamps are also

glass

fronts

popular.

give

this

The Pantone color of the year

Gray is another color that is

as labeled by the Color Marketing

dominant this year. It is the new

Group is Tango Tangerine and is

neutral! It works well when combined

widely used in everything from textiles

with small doses of brighter shades

and furnishings to accessories, lamps

such as fuchsia, tangerine or citron

and rugs. A great example of this is

(as shown in this room setting from the

shown in the stylish wingback chairs

Kravet showroom).

and leather ottomans (in the first image compliments of Bernhardt

rough,

Upholstered headboards

Furniture). The last image also shows how a little bit of this bright color

along

(pillows, accessories) can add punch to an otherwise dull room.

cabinet the look of a piece from long ago. (Currey and Co. and AHT Interiors).

Garden stools

Upholstered headboards create a fabulous focal point for a master bedroom and can be customized in shape and covering to match any style of decor. I love this headboard

rough luxe

shown in the Bernhardt Furniture showroom at High Point, which is also a great example of how the color Ceramic

garden

stools

are

gray is being used.

interesting and unexpected pieces that work well as an accent both indoors and out. A garden stool in the right scale can act as an accent table and break up a room decor that may have too many wood pieces. They are available in a myriad of sizes, shapes and finishes. I love this wall of

12 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

AHT Interiors in Cumming has a reputation for creating memorable living spaces. We pride ourselves on exceeding expectations while delivering inviting designs that truly reflect our clients’ lifestyle and personality. In 2009, we founded Designing Dreams, a 501(c)3 foundation that shares our resources and talents with our communities’ less fortunate. Learn more about us at www.ahtinteriors.com or call us at 770.887.7612.

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Above: Runners wore tutus and tiaras through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot during the Disney Princess Half-Marathon. Top left: Alpharetta’s Sole Sisters at the Disney Princess HalfMarathon. Front, from left, are Tiffany Bennett and Traci pearson. Rear, from left, are storm Cotsman, Mariellen Otswald, Kristin Hicks, Holly palmer, Carmen Bondorant and Leah Kenny. Bottom right: The Sole Sisters gather at Epcot in Walt Disney World.

Sole Sisters on the Run Alpharetta friends lace up for the Disney Princess Half-Marathon

By KAtie vAnBrACKLe

katie@northsidewoman.com

Though it was early, the gals were primed and ready for the task that lay ahead, said Holly Palmer, who helped

Early on a brisk morning in March,

organize the Alpharetta crew.

The race path extended 13.1

ty of venting and whining,” she said.

miles through the Magic Kingdom

“We get it all out of our system and

and Epcot. Disney characters greet-

then go home as much better moms

ed the runners along the way, with

and wives.”

opportunities for quick photo-ops.

YMCA staff member Jennifer

Even a few male runners got into the

Hasson teaches the Intro to Running

spirit, wearing costumes representing

class every Monday and Wednesday

Disney princes or Mickey himself.

at 9:15 a.m., but once her students

Each one of the Sole Sisters suc-

have completed a half-marathon,

cessfully completed the exciting but

she shoos them out to train with Caro-

a rather large group of princesses

“We all went to Epcot the day

exhausting run thanks to careful train-

lyn Teeter, who leads the more experi-

gathered inside the Magic Kingdom

before the race and carb-loaded at

ing by the staff running coaches at

enced runners.

at Walt Disney World in Florida. Excite-

the Italian pavilion,” she said.

the Alpharetta YMCA.

The runs begin along the Al-

ment filled the air as the colorfully

At 5:45 a.m., the Fairy Godmother

The women, most of whom met

pharetta Greenway, then wind their

dressed, tiara-topped ladies greeted

appeared to wave her magic wand

when their children were in pre-

way through Windward neighbor-

each other.

and with a burst of fireworks and a

school, gather several times a week

hoods to add some hilly terrain to the

But these Cinderellas weren’t

“Bibbity Bobbity Boo!” the princesses

to run together at “the Y.”

course.

heading to the ball. They were lac-

were off in a blur of glitter, tulle and

ing up their athletic shoes in

spandex.

preparation

for

the

Disney Princess HalfMarathon.

A Sole Sisters page on Facebook

Kristin Hicks. “When you run with a

helps organize spontaneous runs for

group, it’s a good motivator. You

those needing extra training in prep-

know you have to do it. Other-

aration for the Peachtree Road Race

wise, there would probably be

Among thousands

“13.1 miles is a long way,” said

the of

a point when you’d want to

cos-

quit.”

or other challenges.

For Palmer, Hicks and the other Sole Sisters, having a new “13.1”

tumed runners were

Hicks, a longtime

magnet on their minivans is not

a group of friends

exerciser but new to

enough. The running bug has bitten.

from Alpharetta, most

running, says training

The group is already planning a sec-

with friends makes

ond half-marathon adventure this fall

of whom had never attempted

Calling

themselves

the “Sole Sisters,” they wore

matching

black

BENNETT

such a long run.

it more fun. She

TIFFANY

before

and red Minnie Mouse their hair.

and fellow mom

Part of the Rock n’ Roll Marathon

Traci Pearson get

Series, the Savannah run will feature

in plenty of girl talk

live music at the finish line in the city’s

during

lovely Forsyth Park.

their

long

runs.

tutus and big red bows in

“We talk about A group of Disney leading men gather to cheer on the runners.

14 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

in Savannah.

our day and do plen-

From tiaras to electric guitars, Alpharetta’s Sole Sisters plan to stay on the run.

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 15

theinterview

Would your child know what to do?

Allison Neal teaches ‘Revved Up Kids’ to be smart, strong and safe

With that goal in mind, Allison and her husband David created a program called Revved Up Kids, which teaches basic self defense to children ages 6-10. Using videos

By KAtie vAnBrACKLe

child taking ownership of her own

katie@northsidewoman.com

personal safety.”

to illustrate realistic dangers and padded

The mother of two kids in Johns

practice

instructors simple

to

physical

Bremen,

Creek, Allison has always talked

self-defense skills, the Neals

Ga., 7-year-old Brittany Baxter was

frankly to her own son and daughter

teach kids all over metro

admiring princess toys in Walmart

about how to avoid dangerous

Atlanta to “Be Smart, Be

when

situations and what to do if they are

Earlier

a

this

year

strange

in

man

suddenly

grabbed her and tried to carry

Strong, Be Safe.”

forced to defend themselves.

Allison

said

the

idea

for

Brittany

“None of us like to imagine our

Revved Up Kids arose after David lost

remembered lessons from a stranger

children facing a predator, but the

his corporate job during the recent

danger lesson at school. She began

reality is that over 800,000 children

recession. The idea of owning their

kicking and screaming until the man

are reported missing each year,” she

own business appealed to the Neals

dropped her and ran away.

said.

and Allison wanted their new venture

her

away.

Thankfully,

“Child abuse is reported every

knowledge may have saved her life,”

10 seconds in the United States.

said Allison Neal, a child safety expert

We can’t be by our kids’ side every

who discussed the story on Atlanta’s

moment of the day, so it is crucial

11Alive

that we teach them how to protect

News

Today.

“Brittany’s

bravery is the perfect example of a

themselves.”

16 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

SPECIAL

“She knew what to do, and that

to have a meaningful purpose. She was a big fan of self-defense courses for women and felt that children

david Neal wears protective pads as he teaches a young boy how to evade a predator.

could benefit from a similar approach.

It broke her heart to watch daily news stories about violence toward

“

None of us like to imagine our children facing a predator, but the reality is that over 800,000 children are reported missing each year and child abuse happens every 10 seconds in the United States. We can’t be by our kids’ side every moment of the day, so it is crucial that we teach them how to protect themselves.

”

—Allison neal, Revved Up Kids children, knowing that so many cases

reports of child abuse 84,000 times

could be prevented if the kids knew

a day. And we must remember that

how to protect themselves.

only one in three cases are even

“There was definitely a strong

reported.”

sense of personal calling,” said Allison.

Allison noted that most people

“It just felt like we were supposed to

don’t choose to immerse themselves

take this path.”

in the world of child safety. Those

That

path

was

not

always

who are high profile in this field are

pleasant. In order to create the

parents whose own children have

curriculum for Revved Up Kids, Allison

been abducted or murdered.

spent over a year educating herself

As she began to promote her

about violence toward children, self

self-defense

defense techniques and the many

surprised at the level of resistance

tricky lures used by child predators.

from some parents and she learned

classes,

Allison

was

“It’s an ugly place to be. I was

that educating the adults was just

staggered at how much violence

as important as empowering the

is out there,” she admitted. “In the United

States,

authorities

receive

See interview, Page 24

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 17

woman'sbestfriend

ADOPT ME

peT OF THe MONTH Sweet, shy Oliver is a 6-month-old brown lab puppy who will grow up to be a medium-sized lab (he only weighs about 25 pounds now!) He was rescued along with his siblings and mother from an abusive situation in South Georgia, and is flourishing with love and attention from his foster parents. Oliver is coming out of his shell, exploring the safe world around him, and ready to find his forever home with forever parents who can teach him not all people are like his previous owners. He loves other dogs and is learning to love hugs and kisses from his “people.� Oliver is fully up to date on shots and vaccinations and has been neutered. For more information on Oliver, or to fill out an adoption application, visit the Labrador Friends of the South website at www.labradorfriends.com.

WELCOME to our

pet feature Please send us your news about rescue groups and vet questions.

We will try to answer them and publicize your group!

email editor@ northside woman.com

18 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 19

l a c o L

ith w s n fa r t e h g m i l e m d u s s r r o auth in time fo t s u j ls

e v o n w ne

By KAtie vAnBrACKLe

Times bestselling author of “Savannah

some great new beach reads. Your

reads: “fun, breezy, a little tart, a

katie@northsidewoman.com

Breeze”

chair in the sand awaits!

little sweet, goes down easy --like a

and

“Blue

Christmas,”

is

raspberry mohito.”

looking forward to the June 4 launch Searching for the perfect book to tuck into your beach bag this summer?

party for her newest novel, “Spring Fever.”

spring Fever

By Mary Kay Andrews of Atlanta ▼ marykayandrews.com

Annajane Hudgens truly believes she is over her ex-husband, Mason Bayless. They’ve been divorced for

Something fun and flirty, but not too

“I love supporting indie bookstores,

shallow? A tale that makes you laugh,

and Atlanta is blessed with several

makes you stop to think, makes you

great ones, all over the metro area,”

shed a tear or two, in a good way of

she said. “The gals at Fox Tale ‘get’

place to write is her beach

course?

me. They always have fun events with

house on Tybee Island,

Grab a group of fellow book lovers

fab food, wine and friends. The staff

Ga., preferably propped

much history. She is so

and head to FoxTale Book Shoppe in

knows their customers and what they

up

over Mason that she has

Woodstock this month to meet many

like.”

looking out at the blue

absolutely

no

problem

sky. She describes her

attending

his

wedding

of your favorite authors who have

Mark your calendar, meet some

penned a compelling collection of

very entertaining authors and pick up

new women’s fiction novels just in time for summer.

In addition to being bestselling, award-winning authors, the talented literary ladies featured on these pages are also your neighbors, hailing from Alpharetta, Milton, East Cobb and Atlanta. Dorothea Benton Frank is from South Carolina, but that’s close enough, we’ll claim her!

All are delightful women, full of wit, charm and a natural knack for spinning a good yarn. And you have the opportunity to meet most of them this month at a series of book signings, luncheons and launch parties planned by the owners of FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Mary Kay Andrews, New York

20 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

Mary Kay Andrews’ favorite

in

her

big

bed,

books as classic beach

four years, she’s engaged to a new, terrific guy, and she’s ready to leave the small town where she and Mason had so

to the beautiful, delightful

Celia. But when fate intervenes and

can remember, Ava Whalen has

themselves, and the project, together.

or where to start. With some shoving

the wedding is called to a halt as the

struggled with a sense of not belonging,

With a decades-old mystery -- and

from her very Southern mama, she

bride is walking down aisle, Annajane

and now, at 34, she still feels stymied

the hurricane season -- looming,

immures herself for the summer on

realizes that maybe she’s been given

by her family. She thinks her days of

the women are forced to

a second chance. And maybe, just

loneliness are over when she meets

figure out just how they’ll

maybe, she wants Mason back. But

child psychologist Matthew Frazier

weather life’s storms.

there are secrets afoot in this small

and impulsively elopes to Matthew’s

southern

peaceful

ancestral home on St. Simons Island,

surface of Hideaway Lake, Annajane

off the coast of Georgia. But there

On

the

discovers that the past is never really

is much Ava doesn’t know about

gone.

Matthew, including the mysterious circumstances

surrounding

his

first

Porch Lights

wife’s death. Feeling adrift, Ava throws

By Dorothea Benton Frank of Sullivan’s Island, S.C. ◄ dotfrank.com

herself into uncovering Matthew’s

When Jimmy McMullen, a fireman with the Fire Department of New York, is killed in the line of duty, his

family history and that of the island, not realizing that her obsession with the past could very well destroy her future.

Read

wife, Jackie, and 10-year-old

about

son Charlie, are devastated.

White

Trusting in the healing power

Change”

of family, Jackie decides to return to her childhood home

matriarch who has kept the porch lights on to welcome them home even though relations between mother and

from Damascus’s family, the

just not her own. She’s the aroundthe-clock personal assistant to her charismatic, high-maintenance, New Age guru brother, Tag. As the family wallflower, her only worth seems to be seaside failed

She Reads column,

Ocean Beach

replacement

By wendy wax of East Cobb authorwendywax.com ▲

on

“Dancing

Meet the authors!

with

mentally and physically. It might even get her a life of her own. Deirdre’s 15

and Nicole have arrived in Miami’s

river witch

stories of Blackbeard and his pirates

South Beach neighborhood to bring a

who once sailed the Carolina waters

once-grand historic house back to its

By Kimberly Brock of Milton kimberlybrockbooks.com ▼

and of former resident Edgar Allen

former glory on a new television show

Roslyn Byrne is 24 years old, broken

Poe, mother, daughter, and grandson

called “Do-Over.” At least, that’s the

in body, heart and soul. Her career as

plan until the women realize that

a professional ballet dancer

having their work broadcast is one thing, having

minutes of fame have begun.

ended with a car wreck and a miscarriage,

sea Change

their personal lives

leaving her lost and

By Karen white of Milton ► karen-white.com

play

For as long as she

passion for living her new life.

the Stars.” It’ll get her back in shape,

the island’s natural charms and lively

illuminating summer.

dying who haunt the riverbank, and a

herself voted on as a last-minute

would call smooth. Captivated by

memorable,

music of the river, the dead and the

massive online following to get

page 6.

knocks, unlikely friends Madeline, Avery

a

stew of the past and present, the

relationship,

daughter have never been what you

share

finds herself caught in a mysterious

compound.

After suffering a series of hard

will

Trezevants, a strange bunch, and

Deirdre decides to use Tag’s

on Sullivan’s Island. Awaiting them is Annie Britt, the family

life. Roslyn rents a house

Deirdre Griffin has a great life; it’s

a

10-year-

and hoodoo into her sorry

By Claire Cook of East Cobb ► clairecook.com

after

our

a

brings alligators, pumpkins

While drowning her sorrows

“Sea

finds

old girl, Damascus, who

wallflower in Bloom

England

Karen in

Roslyn

as gatekeeper to Tag at his New

more

and

Sea Isles, to recover. There,

TV

grieving. She needs

thing

a new path, but

entirely. Soon they

she doesn’t have

are struggling to hold

the least idea how

is

out

another

on

The following events are organized by FoxTale Book Shoppe. Two events will be held off-site. Visiting authors only sign books purchased at the bookstore.

FOXTALe BOOK sHOppe

Photo credits for author portraits: Mary Kay Andrews - BILL MILES; Karen White - TANNER PHOTOGRAPHY; Wendy Wax - STUDIO 7 PHOTOGRAPHY; Kimberly Brock - KACIE JO PHOTOGRAPHY; Claire Cook - DIANE DILLON; DorotheaBentonFrank - JACK ALTERMAN.

town.

Manny’s Island, Ga., one of the

105 East Main Street, Woodstock, Ga. 30188 770-516-9989 www.foxtalebookshoppe. com/events-new.html

MONdAY, JUNe 4 Launch party for Mary Kay Andrews’ “spring Fever” 6 p.m. Harbour Bar and Fish House, 129 Church Street, Decatur. $35 ticket includes a copy of “Spring Fever,” a bag of goodies, appetizers and more. Register at foxtalebookshoppe.com. sATURdAY, JUNe 9 Book signing, Karen White’s “sea Change” 6 p.m. FoxTale Book Shoppe. sATURdAY, JUNe 16 Book signing, Claire Cook’s “Wallflower in Bloom” 1 p.m. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

TUesdAY, JUNe 19 Luncheon with dorothea Benton Frank, “porch Lights” 12 p.m. Magnolia Thomas Restaurant, 108 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. $55 ticket includes your meal and a first edition of “Porch Lights." Reservations required by June 16.

TUesdAY, JUNe 26 Launch party for Wendy Wax’s “Ocean Beach” 7 p.m. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 21

TA

Fitness

KE

e id h fi v e n o r t

1. Ballet Body Fusion

5

Trends

a si d s & t e w ips for o men

Ballet Body Fusion is a total body conditioning program that blends classical ballet exercises

store, but these are definitely not child’s play. Billed as the “world’s lowest impact shoes,” Kangoo Jumps promise a low impact cardio workout, with no stress on knees, ankles and other joints. Run in

and Pilates with a special focus on

your exercise program and don’t overdo it at

place, leap side-to-side, or perform jumping jacks

core fitness.

the beginning--good advice for pet and owner!

to get your heart pumping, although get ready

A recent addition to the schedule at LifeTime Fitness locations across the area,

for amused looks from bystanders as you bounce

3. Lower-Cost Health Clubs

away! www.kangoojumps.com

ballet body fusion is an invigorating workout

If the cost of a gym membership is the reason

that develops muscular endurance, dynamic

you‘ve been avoiding workouts, then you haven’t

balance, flexibility and core strength. No

surveyed the current gym landscape. High-end

With more than one in five women over 50

dance experience necessary – and non-

facilities, without the high costs are popping up

having osteoporosis – a potentially fatal condition

dancers are definitely welcome!

everywhere, including metro Atlanta. They

in which bones become weak and brittle -

might not have the bells and whistles of the top

health clubs across the country are offering

2. woman’s best friend

5. Bone-Friendly exercises

tier facilities, but if a basic workout with

classes to help women strengthen their

Have your

new equipment and a decent class

bodies without the risk of fracturing weak

dog be your exercise buddy and get fit together.

schedule is what you need, then

bones. The classes are designed to keep

Recent medical studies support this trend, which

check out the latest entries into the

the spine from over-flexing, and using

prove both people and pets were more successful

workout market.

the woman’s own body weight as light

Can’t afford a personal trainer?

resistance to slowly build muscle mass.

in staying with a weight loss and fitness routine when they did it together.

Dogs also become a stimulus for exercise, with owners walking twice the distance with their pet than on their own. Remember to gradually build up

22 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

4. Kangoo Jumps They

may

Ask your local health facility about classes that emphasize flexibility, light weights and look

like

something out of a toy

resistance designed specifically for those with osteoporosis.

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 23

interview, Continued from Page 17

as how to make smart decisions to avoid compromising their safety.

Two area libraries will offer the

children.

Just Yell Fire program free of charge

“Many parents don’t hesitate to

for area residents this summer. Allison

warn their children of the dangers

will lead the program for teen girls

of lightning strikes or car accidents,

and young women at the Ocee

but they are silent when it comes to

Library in Johns Creek on June 21 and

talking about kidnappers or sexual

the Alpharetta Library on July 25. To

abuse,” she said.

register, go to www.revvedupkids.

“Yet statistics prove that these

com/register.htm.

are in fact far greater dangers. One

Since 2010, nearly 500 children

in four girls and one in six boys will

in metro Atlanta have learned self SPECIAL

experience some sort of molestation before they turn 18,” she said. “If you are not talking to your kids about

Revved Up girls learn the “5 D’s of self defense.”

them the tools they need to defend

Don’t approach a stranger who asks

Currently, Revved Up Kids classes

themselves.”

you to help find his lost dog. Remind

are geared toward younger children,

them over and over until it becomes

ages 6-10. Curriculum is currently

a habit.”

being developed for pre-teen girls

Revved Up Kids classes with their kids, enabling them to keep the safety

Allison said some parents worry

and boys. The classes are portable

dialogue going and reinforce the

their children will become paranoid if

and can be brought to any group of

lessons learned.

constantly reminded of dangers.

12 or more kids in the metro Atlanta

“Children need to know they

“We tell the kids our personal

have their parents’ permission to

safety lessons are like fire drills at

Allison is also one of two certified

stand up to an adult if they feel

school,” she said. “Do they walk

instructors in the state of Georgia for

threatened,” Allison said. “On top

around scared every day that there

the national Just Yell Fire program,

of that, parents need to remind kids

will be a fire at their school? No. But

which teaches teen girls and young

constantly about safety habits. Don’t

just in case there is one, they will know

women how to fight back against

go into a public restroom alone.

what to do.”

predators and sexual assault as well

24 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

programs, and Allison hopes that number will triple by the end of the

child predators, you are not giving

Allison requires parents to attend

defense skills through Revved Up Kids

area.

year.

Allison feels good about the work she and her husband do each day to fight back against those who would harm innocent children.

“I truly believe that every child we train will have a better chance of avoiding dangerous situations,” she said. “They won’t be an easy target.”

Revved Up Kids Allison and David Neal www.revvedupkids.com 678-526-3335

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 25

northsideman

Appen dads dish on best Father’s Day gifts

{T

}

o celebrate Father’s Day this month, Northside Woman asked the dads in the Appen Newspapers office to give us a father’s take on the perfect Father’s Day. So ladies and children, get out your pens and take notes.

What are your Father’s day traditions,

Geoffrey thurow graphic designer

or what do you want them to be?

Anything outdoors with the kids.

What would your ideal Father’s day look like?

An active, sunny day with the kids - barbecue at the park or time on the Hooch. Followed by long, quiet relaxation (maybe mom takes them out for dinner).

David Brown graphic designer

What do you want for Father’s day?

Growing up, we always gave my father socks and underwear every Father’s Day since I can remember.

We always made jokes about it, but I think that is all he wanted. I suppose I will encourage the tradition of

receiving

useful

and

boring

gifts. And of course nothing can ever beat a homemade card.

What do you want for Father’s day?

What's the best gift you've received?

Just the day she was born.

26 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

What do I want? Well, this may

See FAtHers, Page 35

i will take care of myself

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june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 27

SPECIAL

On Dads and Denial applying

By AMY DAwsOn

amymacwrites.com I

the day (middle of

I got stitches) and “heisgo-

ingtobethebestdad”

from dog social

being to

being

liability

impressive

no rth editor@ com sidewoman.

top a

with

stoicism.

By that, I mean he regularly

threatens

to

valium.)

choreograph a flash mob

Even in my pharmaceu-

during their next school event and

(God

bless

tically enhanced state, I knew my

gives all their friends goofy nicknames.

husband would be an amazing dad

Our daughters do not approve of

and was well on my way to forgiving

this behavior, and he’s okay with that.

him for the egregious time lapse be-

He knows one day they will look back

tween “this hurts” and the epidural.

and be grateful their dad loved them

He has more than lived up

wildly

and

unconditionally,

even

to expectations. He paraded our

through their tumultuous teen years.

daughters around like blue-ribbon

They’ll realize by not taking their

prize winners at the county fair,

threats to disown him too seriously, he

boasting

from

helped them build their self esteem,

excellent APGAR scores (seriously)

even as they made every attempt to

to their superior abilities at things like

eviscerate his soul. That is, begging

growing and sleeping.

him to stop dancing poolside.

about

everything

When they were little, he would

This Father’s Day, I hope all dads

whip them into frenzy with loud

give their children the gift of teaching

caterwauling and wrestling matches

them to approve of themselves,

(right before bedtime, natch). He’d

no matter what other people think.

tell them stories about Russell R., a

Because belief in yourself is what

fictional child deviant known for

gives us the strength to say yes to

things like exploding double-decker

what’s right and no to what’s wrong.

nachos onto his teacher, that left

Surviving your parents’ ever-creative

them collapsed from fits of laughter.

ways of threatening to ruin your

His

fan

base

increased

social

standing

builds

character,

exponentially over the years. At

but knowing you have your parents’

Halloween, he is in full costume,

approval is a powerful, lasting thing.

playing pranks so realistic there are

I’m signing off before I start

kids who believe a werewolf resides in

quoting Whitney Houston songs, but to

our basement (which would explain

all you dads with easily embarrassed

the state of our storage room). He is

teens, hang tough. They’ll thank you

routinely invited to children’s birthday

one day. Though probably not for

parties.

dancing at the pool.

But as the girls have gotten older, if the guy so much as sneezes, they tell him to quit making weird noises.

“That’s awkward, dad,” is a constant refrain. One was in tears because he was dancing at our neighborhood pool. (He maintains he was simply

28 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

He has adjusted

send us yours!

our first baby (only thinking

background.)

blogs

the night) we had

while

LMFAO played in the

she

remember

sunscreen

Amy is an Alpharetta-based writer who remains grateful she didn’t stab her husband in the delivery room before the drugs kicked in. amymacwrites.com

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 29

give it a whirl Pilates builds core, improves flexibility and balance Meredith Limberis of Alpharetta was an active,

the results: “After the first class we were

athletic mother of three before a head-on crash

amazed at how sore we felt from head to toe the

last year left her with serious injuries, including a

next day (the good kind of sore that shows you got

broken back. After back surgery last fall, Limberis

a good workout!) We knew Pilates targeted the

was ready to reclaim her active lifestyle and looked

core muscles, but were surprised at how it really is

for a low-impact exercise to participate in. After

a full body workout…which is great. We’ve been

researching the exercise options that would best

going to Pilates classes about six weeks now and

benefit her, Limberis decided to try Pilates.

love the class, as well as the individual attention

“The neurosurgeon stressed the importance of

from our Pilates instructor, Ramie Jordan. Anyone

strengthening my core to protect my back from

can do Pilates, regardless of age or fitness level,

further injury,” said Limberis.

but it really helps to learn the basics of Pilates

She recruited her friend and neighbor, Paige Bauer, who was also looking for an exercise routine

first. As you progress, the exercises become paige Bauer, left, and Meredith Limberis are Pilates partners.

more demanding. It does not require any special

that would strengthen her core muscles and help her tennis game.

muscles. It puts special emphasis on spinal

most people feel comfortable in yoga type pants

alignment, increasing oxygen flow to muscles,

with any type of athletic top. After six weeks, we

improving

have noticed increased strength and flexibility, and

the

Product: Pilates. Although the

balance

and

coordination,

and

“rage” of Pilates hit the US about a decade ago,

developing a strong core by toning abdominal

it has actually been around since the early 1900’s.

muscles while strengthening the back.

equipment, other than Yoga/Pilates socks, and

plan to continue the classes for a long time.”

the rating:

Today, there are more than 14,000 Pilates instructors

the test: Paige and Meredith began with

teaching more than 11 million students.

Four out of Four stars

one Pilates class a week at the Alpharetta LifeTime

the Promise: Pilates is body conditioning routine that helps build flexibility and long, lean

Fitness facility, and recently increased it to twice a

—By Candy Waylock

week.

OF BEST EE N A SUW

2011

Kid’s Creek is celebrating its 8th year of helping children reach their potential in North Atlanta.

• Physical Therapy • Speech Therapy • Interactive Metronome • Handwriting Groups • Occupational Therapy

4th

Consecutive Year

• Oral Motor Myofunctional Therapy • P.R.O.M.P.T. Speech Therapy • Feeding Therapy • Social Skills Groups

Feeding Therapy

Are you up a creek about what to feed your picky eater?

Find help at the Food Explorers group! (utilizing SOS therapeutic feeding techniqueswith a licensed nutritionist, ST and OT)

Lindamood Bell Phoneme Sequencing® Program

(phonemic awareness for reading, spelling, and speech and develops cognitive processes related to word attack, and phonological processing)

We invite you to call or visit to learn about immediate therapy openings.

Kids Creek Therapy 3905 Johns Creek Court, Suite 250, Suwanee, GA 30024 Check out our website at: www.kidscreektherapy.com | 770.888.5221 30 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 31

girlpower

MIA SCHWOB

Cupcakes for a Cause

Alpharetta teens Caroline schwob, left, and Lydia McGinnis are raising money throughout the summer by holding bake sales throughout the area, with all proceeds going to various charities. During their first fundraiser, the two rising freshmen at Milton High School raised more than $200 for the Leukemia Research Foundation. Other charities they plan to support with their weekly bake sales include breast cancer research, children with disabilities, the American Heart Association and many other organizations. For information on where their bake sales will be held, email Caroline and Lydia at cupcakesforacausex2@gmail. com.

ECONOMY TO LUXURY SUGAR SANDS REALTY & MGMT. HAS A VACATION RENTAL FOR YOU.

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from: Sand Dunes 32 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

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june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 33

herlook Summer trends for cutting-edge hair

By GOCHA HAwKins

high, slicked-back ponytail. If hair

to frizzing, use a serum that is easily

www.GochaSalon.com

is thin and does not have a lot of

absorbed into hair.

natural volume, tease gently and pull With a new season comes new

back, securing with hair elastic.

trends, and the world of hair is no

Divide hair into two sections,

exception. The question remains how

winding them around one another

to make the latest trends work for

from the base of the ponytail.

While hair is still wet, apply a volumizing spray.

Blow-dry with hands; don’t brush hair while styling.

Choose random groups of strands

everyday wear. Here are foolproof

Using hairpins, secure hair by

and twist with fingers; particularly

versions of hot spring and summer

pinning the base and then any

those around the face. Finish with

looks from celebrity hairstylist Gocha

additional loose hair. The key is to

hairspray if needed.

Hawkins of Gocha Salon in Atlanta,

keep most of it contained so the look

for low-maintenance styling.

emphasizes the knot.

Spray with hairspray to keep in

tight top Knot: Arguably

place throughout the day or night.

the most popular style of the moment

SPECIAL

layered well.

short and Chic: The pixie

While many women think that a

cut is enjoying an all-time high in

pixie cut is one-dimensional, certain

popularity. Hawkins says it’s important

cuts can be very versatile. A short

with a short haircut to trust your stylist

pixie cut can be styled into choppy

is the upswept top knot. Long a

effortless waves: Those

to give you the right look, since it

bangs, a deep side part, spiked up

favorite of celebrities, more women

with natural waves may find “beachy

takes a certain personality to pull off

for volume or tousled.

are looking to capitalize on this

hair” easy to achieve. For others, it

this edgy trend.

easy, yet impactful, trend. Hawkins

takes a little practice to get the right

With short styles, keep in mind

for any type of styling for a pixie

says a top knot is best achieved

look without overloading on product.

they look best on women with square,

cut is a wax-based product, which

with shoulder length hair or longer;

Hawkins says overusing products is

oval or heart-shaped faces, and hair

adds volume and also separation

anything shorter, and your style will be

often a mistake, as you should avoid

with a certain degree of texture. Not

for sectioning hair. Use this as an

difficult to achieve.

products that are sticky or make your

curly, but wavy, is the best for short

alternative to hairsprays for keeping

hair feel hard. If your hair is prone

hair, though thin can also work if

the style in place.

Gather hair as if putting up in a

34 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

One of the best go-to products

Fathers, Continued from Page 26 not be what you are looking for, but here goes.

As I look back at my greatest memories of my dad, the things that come to mind are the simple times spent together. Nothing fancy, no high priced gifts, just the simple pleasure of his attention and devotion. As I get older and time seemingly passes by faster, I realize time with my children not only gives them the opportunity to have memories of me as I do my dad, but in return I am awarded the same.

So for Father’s Day, my wish would simply and honestly be time with my son and daughter memories

to

cherish

– creating a

lifetime.

Hatcher Hurd managing editor What do you want for Father’s Day? I would like a big home-cooked meal with everybody around the table and to not have to do the dishes.

What's the best gift you've received?

Best gift was a blue shirt and

Ray Appen publisher What do you want for Father’s Day? That would be a week at the beach with my family. Hands down.

We would all fish in the morning.

Take a long walk looking for shells and arrowheads in the early afternoon.

Swim all late afternoon. Then grill out steaks after attacking a bushel of oysters for dinner. We would end the day with a team Scrabble game.

If that was not possible, a cruise to Alaska would be nice. If that was not possible, some good books would be OK too.

What's the best gift you've received?

My family is not a huge gift giver for Father’s Day, and that is OK. However, for my 50th birthday my wife and kids had a new Ford F-250 Diesel Club Cab truck parked in the driveway for me. I was completely surprised

and

thrilled

beyond

words (often, guys really like trucks, especially big ones).

sunflower tie. I still wear them.

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 35

herbeauty Bridal beauty that lasts from ‘I do’ to the last dance

By CYntHiA MOrrisOn eiKe

skin, so use a moisturizing cleanser that exfoliates

Definition Micro Finish Powder - $32). Dust off gently

cynthia@northsidewoman.com

at the same time like Alpha Hydrox Nourishing

with powder brush.

Cleanser ($9). Follow up with a line-reducing mask June is traditionally the month for weddings,

like Lancôme’s Hydra-Intense Masque ($32).

a brush of shine like LORAC’s Perfectly Lit Oil Free

but wedding days happen all year long. Here are bridal makeup tips to keep you looking flawless on your wedding day… no matter what month!

• Highlight cheekbones and collar bones with

• Prep skin for all-day makeup wear with a makeup primer that prevents makeup from shifting

Luminizing Powder ($32) in Golden Cream for a subtle bridal glow.

and fading. Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant Un-Wrinkle

Choose lip and cheek colors at least two

• Get skin into shape for your big day several

Primer ($38) suits all skin types to instantly fill in

shades brighter than your normal colors, and eye

weeks in advance by using an exfoliating cleanser

lines, wrinkles and pores for a smooth, flawless,

colors two shades darker for contrast. Choose long-

daily, followed by a masque for your specific

all-day finish for your foundation. Use primer after

wearing formulas and waterproof mascara.

skincare concerns at least three times a week.

moisturizer and before foundation.

• Set the final look with a mist of setting spray

Warmer temperatures increase oil production • Choose a yellow-based foundation to

like Urban Decay’s All Night Long Lasting Makeup

counteract the pink tones that come out with flash

Setting Spray ($29). Great for all skin types, it keeps

For acne-prone oily skin, Neutrogena’s Clear

photography. Bobbi Brown’s foundation formulas

makeup in place and picture perfect for up to 16

Pore Cleanser/Mask ($8) does both. Use daily as

fit any skin type and tone with photo-friendly

hours of bridal beauty!

a cleanser and three times a week as an intensive

coverage and user-friendly application ($34-$55).

mask. For normal skin, Olay’s Pro-X Exfoliating

Stay away from dry, mineral-based foundations as

Renewal Cleanser ($20) gently renews and purifies

they reflect light from flashes and cause skin to look

skin in preparation for other skincare products.

ashy.

in skin, but using proper skin care can prevent breakouts.

Follow up with an equalizing mask to remove

Set foundation by dabbing tissue to absorb

impurities and hydrate like H2O Plus Aqualibrium Sea

excess oil against skin before pressing translucent,

Mineral Mud Mask ($25). Cooler months dehydrate

colorless powder onto skin (Makeup Forever’s High

Cynthia has been a makeup artist for over 25 years.

She provides consulting and makeup application services through Visage Designs by Cynthia. Contact her at cynthia@northsidewoman.com or at 770-331-9957.

E

W

S

36 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

goodeats Have a Sizzling Fourth All-star sliders on Cornbread Buns

Makes 12 buns and 12 sliders Cornbread Buns • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour • 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 3/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 3/4 cup sour cream • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 2 eggs, lightly beaten Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray Star Whoopie Pie Pan with vegetable cooking spray.

In medium bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt and pepper. Add sour cream, oil and eggs, stirring just until smooth. Fill cavities 3/4 full, spreading batter to edges of star. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until center of bun springs back when touched. Cool in pan 5 minutes; remove to cooling grid. Repeat with remaining batter. sliders • 3/4 pound ground chuck • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1/2 small yellow onion, minced

• • • • •

(about 1/3 cup) 1/3 cup shredded pepper-jack cheese 1 teaspoon garlic powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 5 to 6 dashes hot sauce, or to taste

Preheat grill or broiler to medium high heat. In large bowl, combine all ingredients until well incorporated.

Form into twelve 2-1/2-inch patties.

Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Serve with star buns and your favorite condiments.

—Family Features

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678-714-8098 june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 37

JUNE

todo

2

Riverside Farmers Market 8 a.m. – Noon. Held every Saturday until Sept. 15. Buy locally grown food, farm-fresh vegetables, fruit and berries, fragrant herbs, beautiful flowers and plants, organic compost, artisan cheeses, organic herbal soaps and more. City Hall parking lot, 38 Hill Street, Roswell.

Alpharetta Farmers Market 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Held every Saturday until Oct. 6. You’ll find farmers with fresh fruits, veggies and meats, gardeners with flowers and herbs and makers of all sorts of home goods from yummy desserts and breads to local raw honey and homemade sauces, jellies and soaps. http://alpharettafarmersmarket.com Riverside sounds concert with the sol Junky Band 7 - 9 p.m. This exciting outdoor concert series continues with the Sol Junky Band, featuring a cross-fusion of instruments including the banjo, mandolin, flute and even beer kegs.

Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

3

Jackie evancho in concert ▲ 7:30 p.m. Come experience the brilliant talent of this pre-teen singer. Since appearing on “America’s Got Talent,” Jackie has recorded two albums, both of which raced to the top of the Billboard charts. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. www.vzwamp.com

5

BRAG in Roswell Through June 7. All day. Roswell welcomes the cyclists of the Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG), a familyoriented eight-day journey across Georgia with over 1,500 cyclists.

The layover in Roswell will include a reception at Roswell High School, a concert at the Chattahoochee Nature Center on June 5 from 7-9 p.m., and live music, shopping and dining on Canton Street on June 6. www.bikeroswell.com/brag

9

Youth Fishing derby 8 a.m. Children ages 4 to 12 (accompanied by an adult) are invited to participate. The city of Alpharetta stocks the lake with catfish and bream. Participants must bring their own fishing gear and bait.

Prizes awarded for longest fish and

most fish caught. This program “catch and release” event. The near Brookside office park on Milton Parkway, just one-half east of Ga. 400. www.alpharetta.ga.us

is a lake Old mile

10th annual Back to the Chattahoochee River Race and Festival At 9 a.m., paddlers of all ages and skill take to the water with a race beginning at Garrard Landing Park on Holcomb Bridge Road and ending at Riverside Park in Roswell, the site of a free family-friendly festival, music and awards presentation. The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Registered paddlers will receive a gift bag, a race T-shirt, a boxed lunch and a one-year membership in Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. www.chattachoochee.org/ river-race-festival.php Roswell Lavender Festival at Barrington Hall 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ms. Evelyn Simpson, one of the last King family descendants to live at Barrington Hall, made and sold lavender wands that were created from lavender growing on the property. The festival includes lavender recipe samples, music, exhibits, children’s activities, craft demonstrations and more.

Free admission. Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell.

Grill the Night Away cooking class 7 p.m. Get ready for the grilling season by learning to prepare grilled romaine hearts with Caesar dressing, Asian-marinated portabellas, citrus chicken with herb polenta and grilled golden pineapple with spiced rum sauce. $40. Publix Aprons Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta. www.public.com/aprons/schools/ Alpharetta

10

Animal Rescue Fair “ARF” and Walk of Fame ▲ Noon – 5 p.m. 50 rescue/ humane societies and 30 vendors participated in this event last year and 86 pets were adopted. Come offer a “forever home” to an animal who needs you! A Walk of Fame begins at 2:30 p.m. All leashed pets are welcome to join in the fun.

Parking and admission are free, but donations of pet food are greatly appreciated. Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11915 Wills Road, Alpharetta. www.animalrescuefair.org Alpharetta City Band Concert 3 p.m. The band will play a medley of patriotic music to celebrate Flag Day and honor the men and women serving our country in the military.

Light refreshments will be served after the concert. Free. Alpharetta Adult

38 | northsidewoman.com | june2012

Activity Center at North Park, 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta. www.alpharetta.ga.us

Nature Center 34TH ANNUAL 10K

16

23

Alpharetta Art in the park Through June 24. Gallery 35 presents an artists market featuring unique handcrafted work by local artists such as pottery, woodwork, metal work, jewelry, children’s clothing, photography, watercolors, mosaics and soaps and lotions. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Old Milton Park, 35 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta. www.gallery35.com

34th annual possum Trot 10K ▲ The Possum Trot along the Chattahoochee River is an official qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race and is a fast-paced benefit for the Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell. Also includes a one-mile Fun Run. Register online or at any Big Peach Running Company store. http://chattnaturecenter.org/ possum-trot.html

summer Break 5K and Block party in Alpharetta ▲ 7 p.m. The Summer Break 5K footrace is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier sponsored by the Worlds Hoppiest Road Race. Proceeds benefit Canine Assistants of Alpharetta. A community block party follows the race. Downtown Alpharetta, Milton Avenue and Canton Street. http://site.worldshoppiest5k.com

Mutts and More Festival 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. A full day of family fun to support the Humane Society of Forsyth County (a no-kill shelter).

Mutt Strutt fun walk with your dog, pet adoptions, live music, food, Rucker Dog Show, demonstrations and vendors. Free. Rain or shine. Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming www.forsythpets.org/events/ mutts-a-more-festival

Planning Ahead

Father’s day Hike and Craft at Autrey Mill Nature preserve 10 a.m. - Noon. Take a fun hike along nature trails and learn about nature’s fathers and their babies.

Afterward, make Father’s Day cards and homemade gifts for Dad. This is a drop-off program for ages 5 to 10. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek. www.autreymill.org

21

Alive After Five in historic downtown Roswell 5 – 9 p.m. A free trolley shuttles up and down Canton Street while folks enjoy merchant specials, restaurants, galleries and live music. www.aliveafterfiveroswell.com Free self-defense Class for Teen Girls 2-4:30 p.m. Revved Up Kids presents the national Just Yell Fire program which teaches teen girls and young women how to fight back against predators and sexual assault.

Presented free of charge by Friends of the Ocee Library. Registration required. Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek. www.revvedupkids.com/register.htm

FOURTH OF JULY FiReWORKs Alpharetta Bring your blanket, chairs and picnic basket and relax under the stars at Wills Park. Activities include free children’s games, a concert by the Alpharetta City Band and other musical performances. Fireworks display at dusk. Wills Park, 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com Roswell Roswell’s 13th annual Fireworks Extravaganza kicks off at 6 p.m. with carnival games and activities and live music by Back Trax. At 7:30 p.m., Banks and Shane will take the stage.

Enjoy food for sale by Shane’s Rib Shack and a fireworks display at dusk.

Roswell High School, 11595 King Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com Cumming Bring your lawn blanket to the Cumming Fairgrounds on July 3 at 6 p.m. for a live band, inflatables for the kids, food and drink, a fireworks display and an all-age dance contest. No admission or parking fee.

On July 4, enjoy the famous Steam Engine Parade at 10 a.m. including steam engines, antique tractors, cars and floats. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. www.cummingfair.net/html/ 4th-of-july.html

june2012 | northsidewoman.com | 39

You deserve easy access to a high-quality, comprehensive cancer program.

And now you can get it close to home.

North Fulton Hospital has been recognized by the American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer as a

Community Cancer Center We're proud to offer the entire spectrum of cancer-control activities—from prevention and early diagnosis to rehabiliation and long-term follow-up— close to home, in the heart of North Fulton. To learn more, visit www.nfultonhospital.com.

40 | northsidewoman.com | june2012