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Volume 1 | Issue 8
March 2014 24-26
Roswell Pediatric Dentistry Kid-friendly care that adults will love, too!
Profile: 28 Artist von Grey
34 Spring Staycations In Every Issue
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Pet Care 101
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
06 Calendar
16 Family of 4
10 Business Life
18 Community Life
13 Pieces of the Puzzle
22 Academic Life
150 North Street, Suite A, Canton, GA 30114 (O) 770-213-7095 | (F) 770-213-7106 www.familylifepublications.com
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Publisher’s
Perspective
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski jack@familylifepublications.com EDITORIAL Michelle Martin michelle@familylifepublications.com ART Tiffany Atwood tiffany@familylifepublications.com Candice Williams candice@familylifepublications.com
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ike it or not, the spring season begins this month. The weather will become warmer and the days longer. We will be blessed with more comforting sunshine, cobalt blue skies decorated with big puffy clouds, and songbirds singing on tree branches adorned with fresh green leaves. I would like to recognize these past few months and our reactions as a whole to the events within them. We saw strangers in the streets helping others in need and people going out of their way to help others. Unsolicited acts of kindness and generosity were everywhere. It was refreshing, renewing and reviving to see our neighbors show their character in such meaningful ways.
fresh, clean spring air flow in. We’ll spend more time outdoors with our families and friends, at the lake, the mountains and the beach. We will lie back, take it all in, delight and relax. Let’s keep thinking about this past season as we move through the coming months, continuing to unite as individuals and a community, looking out for good things to do to help others. Let’s lift people up with acts of goodwill and service. Personally, I can’t recall a winter that warmed my heart like this past one did. I would like to thank you for a wonderful winter. Keep up the good work and, together, “spring forward.”
And now, here we go into spring! The lawns will green up, the flowers will bloom and windows will open to let the Jack Tuszynski, publisher
SALES George Colmant george@familylifepublications.com Janet Ponichtera janet@familylifepublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS State Senator John Albers, Ron Bradley, Crystal Bryant, Michael Buckner, Michael Consoli, Arlene Dickerson, Lisa Ethridge, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Michelle Knapp, Dr. Amanda Kossick, Julie Lippitt, Mike Litrel, Christy Noll, Debra A. Robinson, Nick Roper, Will Rumbaugh, Laura Stalemark, Suzanne Taylor, Mayor Jere Wood North Fulton Family Life magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Family Life Publications. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the North Fulton area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found and other information. North Fulton Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. North Fulton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission from the Publisher. © 2014 All rights reserved.
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
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Calendar of
E v en t s March 5-9 & 12-16
‘The Great Gatsby’ Georgia Ensemble Theatre brings the literary classic to the stage. The glamour and decadent excess of the Jazz Age come to the stage in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, and in Simon Levy’s adaptation, approved by the Fitzgerald Estate. Call or go online for performance times. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-641-1260, GET.org
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Bulloch Hall Quilt Show The Bulloch Hall Quilt Guild will present its 32nd annual Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show. This year’s theme, “Reflections,” will feature approximately 200 quilts made by local artists on display throughout the beautiful antebellum home. The event also will include a special exhibit by Karen Tunnell, a contemporary Atlanta textile artist. 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 1:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. BullochHall.org
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‘Dare to Dream’ Gala enAble of Georgia Inc. will host its annual “Dare to Dream” fundraising gala to help support programs and services provided to people with special needs. The event will feature silent and live auctions, dinner, and entertainment by Party Nation. Tickets can be purchased online. Time TBA, Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel, 2540 Galleria Drive, Atlanta.770-664-4347 x121, enAbleGa.com
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‘High Heels High Times’ The Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties (JLGNF) will host its inaugural girls’ self-esteem fashion show, sponsored by Belk at the Forum, as part of its sixth-annual “High Heels High Times” special event. The fashion show will feature apparel from Belk at the Forum
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
modeled by 10 girls in grades 5-8. Prior to the show, these specially chosen local young women will also attend a workshop hosted by JLGNF and Girl Talk, which will focus on issues and topics concerning self-esteem among teen and tween girls. Tickets will include a luncheon, shopping opportunities from local vendors, and teens’ and ladies’ fashion shows. All proceeds from the event will support JLGNF’s programs to promote teen and tween girls’ self-esteem. 12:30-4:30 p.m., Sonesta Gwinnett Place, Duluth. JLGNF.org
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radKIDS This fun, activitybased program will include safety drills and muscle memory exercises to learn: home, school and vehicle safety; realistic defense against abduction; good/bad/ uncomfortable touch; stranger tricks (including physical defense against abduction). Ages 7-12. Application/ registration is required. 4:00-6:00 p.m., Johns Creek Police Dept., 11445 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek. 678-474-1587
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Self-Defense Class Johns Creek Police Dept. will offer safety and self-defense classes for teenaged girls (ages 13-20) to learn situational awareness and self-defense. The class is free and will be taught by Sgt. Debbie Kalish and Sgt. Ben Finley. To register, email: Debra.Kalish@ JohnsCreekGa.gov. 6:00-8:30 p.m., JCPD, 11445 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek.
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Roswell Beer Festival Mark your calendars for the Roswell Beer Festival, presented by The STAR House Foundation. Call for more details. 2:00-6:00 p.m., Roswell Town Square, 610 S. Atlanta St., Roswell. 678-306-4600 continued on page 8
Library Events ALPHARETTA 238 Canton St., Alpharetta 770-740-2425 Northeast/Spruill Oaks 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 770-360-8820 Ocee 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek 770-360-8897 Roswell 115 Norcross Street, Roswell 770-640-3075
AFPLS.org Super Science for Preschoolers March 5, 12, 19 & 26, 10:30 a.m., Ocee Preschoolers can enjoy super experiments, projects and activities for very young scientists. Please wear old clothes or bring a smock, as some activities may be a bit messy! All children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Ages 3-5. Happy Tails/READing Paws March 6, 4:30 p.m., Alpharetta Children can sign up to read to Echo, a trained and registered therapy dog. Work on reading skills with a great listener who loves hearing all kinds of stories. Sign up for your 15-minute session! Registration is required. Ages 5 and up. Email: Amy.Alexander@FultonCountyGa.gov AARP Smart Driver Course March 8, 10:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks Book: $20 for non-members; $15 for AARP members with membership card. Registration is required. Email: Karen.Swenson@ FultonCountyGa.gov. Georgia Peach Scrappers March 10 & 24, 5:00 p.m., Alpharetta Learn ways to make your scrapbooking better and bond with others who share your enthusiasm. Adults only. Music for Babies With Miss Gail March 11, 10:30 a.m., Ocee Babies ages 0 to 2 and their parents are invited to attend these entertaining and educational programs. Learn how music teaches your baby early literacy skills, improves motor function and deepens the bond between baby and parent. Ages 0-2. continued on page 8
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Calendar of
Events
continued from page 6 continued from page 6
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Super CPR Saturday Johns Creek firefighters/paramedics will offer free, certification life-saving classes demonstrating proper techniques in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the automated external defibrillator (AED). Reservations are required. 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m., Fire Station #62, 10925 Rogers Circle, Johns Creek. 678-512-3221, JohnsCreekGa.gov
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Shredding Day Milton Grows Green and Boy Scout Troop #3000 will host a free shredding day. 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Birmingham United Methodist Church, 15770 Birmingham Hwy., Alpharetta. CityOfMiltonGa.us
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Spring Fling Bazaar In addition to vendors offering jewelry, pottery, spring decorations, antiques, embroidered and knitted items, the Spring Fling Bazaar will feature concessions and activities for all ages. Admission is free. Proceeds will benefit the Roswell Ramblers Club. 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Friday; 12:00-5:00 p.m., Sunday, Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell. 770-641-3950
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Family Campout Grab your camping gear and come out for the family fun, including s’mores, hot dogs, hot chocolate, breakfast treats and a nice warm campfire. All children must be accompanied by an adult. All Ages. 5:00 p.m., Hembree Park, 850 Hembree Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com
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Breakfast with Bunny Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a continental breakfast, music, entertainment,
games, activities and a visit with the Easter Bunny! All Ages. 9:00-11:00 a.m., Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com
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The Great British Car Fayre This event will showcase 100 classic British cars and motorcycles on display, along with the best of British music from The Big Chicken Beatles Tribute Band; food vendors; arts and crafts; great shopping from local vendors; and more. 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Milton Avenue and Main Street, Downtown Alpharetta. AwesomeAlpharetta.com
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Farm Day with the ArtBarn Discover the importance of spring animals and how to best appreciate them, and about the important jobs that wild and farm animals perform in the CNC watershed. Meet, touch and hold live farm animals, including ducklings, chicks, goats and bunnies from the ArtBarn. All ages. 12:00-4:00 p.m., Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Johns Creek. ChattNatureCenter.org
April 1
Taste of Webb Bridge The 10th annual Taste of Webb Bridge will feature more than 20 local restaurants sampling the very best from their menus! Bring the whole family for food and fun, including prizes and music by the WBMS Jazz Band and Violin Ensemble. 5:308:30 p.m., Webb Bridge Middle School, 4455 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-667-2940, TasteOfWebbBridge.com
This program is limited to 25 babies and their parent or caregiver. Pysanky Ukranian Easter Eggs March 12, 5:00 p.m., Ocee This traditional craft in the Ukraine is the art of drawing a design on eggs with wax and applying dye to cover unwaxed areas. Pat Boegel will lead a hands-on demonstration. Ages 10 (with an adult) and up. Wacky Wednesday Crafts March 12, 5:30 p.m., Ocee Parent or caregiver must be present for ages 7 and under. Ages 5-12. Limited to 30 children. Middle School CRCT Test Prep March 17, 24 & 31, 6:00 p.m., Roswell A certified educator will provide an assessment of study needs, a customized study packet, test strategies and techniques. Participants must register for all three sessions. Ages 11-14. College & Career Series for Teens: Research Papers March 18 & 25; April 1, 8, 15 & 22, 6:00 p.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks Each week, writing tutor Sarah Calhoun will spend 90 minutes breaking down in detail a specific part of the research-paper process. It is highly recommended that teens sign up for and attend all six weeks in order to maximize the benefits of this program. Ages 12-18. Registration is required. Reader’s Theatre: the Library Comes Alive! March 19, 4:00 p.m., Roswell Actors from Georgia Ensemble Theatre will do a staged reading of “James and the Giant Peach” and “The BFG.” Afterward, audience members will get a chance to ask questions about the play, the roles, and acting. Snacks will be provided. Ages 6-10. Registration begins March 5. How to Create a Sustainable Income in Retirement March 29, 11:00 a.m.; April 1, 6:30 p.m., Northeast/Spruill Oaks Learn why a retirement income plan is crucial and how to estimate your retirement income needs. This seminar will be presented by Elbert C. McWilliams, CFP, ChFC. Registration is required. 770-360-8820, email: Karen. Swenson@FultonCountyGa.gov
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
Unfinished Business By Ron Bradley, D. Min. In 1923, the idea to sculpt the image of four U.S. presidents into the side of a mountain in South Dakota was conceived. An historian by the name of Doane Robinson is credited with the idea to help promote tourism and to celebrate America’s first 150 years. The location selected was Mount Rushmore, and it took 14 years and 400 people to blast 450,000 tons of rock and granite from the mountainside. Often using dynamite, lead sculptor Gutzon Borglum carefully carved the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It is a little known fact that Borglum never finished his work. If you study
the faces carefully, it’s clear that he spent more time on George Washington than he did on the other three presidents. That’s because he originally planned to extend the figures of each president down into the chest area. But, Borglum didn’t live long enough to see his dream through to completion. His son continued his work for a few months after his death, but he ran out of money. It’s been 73 years — and millions of tourists — since then, but Mount Rushmore, for all its grandeur, remains an unfinished work of art. In an interview, Borglum was asked what he thought about his work. He commented that he thought Washington’s nose was just a little too big. Not to worry — thanks to erosion, in around 10,000 years it will be just perfect! One of our worst fears is to die too young or with our work unfinished
or our dreams unfulfilled. Christians believe “Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith,” (Hebrews 12:2). God not only knows where you are but also knows who you are. He knows what you are going through, why you are going through it, and how you feel about it! He knows you better than you know yourself, and He cares about you personally! Lona Fowler once wrote: “Jesus Christ is the completor of unfinished people with unfinished work in unfinished time.” Why not let Him complete you?
Ron Bradley is the pastor at First Baptist Church Roswell. 770-587-6980, Ron@RFBC.org
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Business What's New Robeks Smoothie and Juice Store opened recently in Alpharetta. It is the third franchise for owners Armando and Veronica Ruiz. Based in Los Angeles, Robeks offers a variety of tasty smoothies and juices from fresh, nutritious fruits, vegetables and natural ingredients. Popular menu items include Greek yogurt, Açaí and Kale smoothies; fresh-squeezed vegetable juices; and Wheatgrass shots. Customers can select different menu items and ingredients to meet their individual dietary, nutritional and taste preferences. “We make it easy and convenient to eat healthier,” said Armando Ruiz. “That’s what I love about Robeks, and it’s why I wanted to open this store. It should be just as easy to grab a fresh fruit smoothie or a freshsqueezed vegetable juice as it is to grab a burger and fries. Fast food doesn’t have to be bad for you.” Hours of operation are 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday; 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Saturday; and 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Sunday. 5250 Windward Parkway, Suite 113, Alpharetta. 404-400-2076, Robeks.com
Pictured (left to right): Freda Hardage, chairperson, GNFCC board of directors; British Consul General Jeremy Pilmore-Bedford; GNFCC President/State Senator Brandon Beach; and Edward Barker, head of UK’s Transatlantic Trade
The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) held a welcome reception at the GNFCC offices for Edward Barker, head of Great Britain’s Transatlantic and International Unit in the Business, Innovation & Skills Dept., during his recent visit to Alpharetta. The reception welcoming Barker to the North Fulton area was part of GNFCC’s global economic development outreach program. Al Nash, executive director of Progress Partners North Fulton Atlanta, said, “Businesses in North Fulton can benefit greatly from these opportunities for international trade with the United Kingdom (UK). It is our hope to open discussions that make an investment partnership in transatlantic trade beneficial for our region.”
Barker is the senior official responsible for leading the UK’s engagement in the Transatlantic Trade & Investment Partnership (TTIP). He has previously served as the acting director of International, Trade Policy & Export Control and head of the Commercial & Economic Diplomacy Dept. in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, responsible for making the FCO more responsive to business and more active on economic policymaking. In addition to speaking to the GNFCC, Barker discussed TTIP’s negotiation process and benefits to Georgia’s economy and local businesses. North Fulton Hospital is now offering a new service line focused on aiding patients with chronic wounds. North Fulton Hospital’s Wound Care & Hyperbarics provides care for patients with hard-to-heal wounds and those seeking hyperbaric treatment. Chronic wounds are caused when the body’s healing process is impaired, usually as a result of common health problems, such as diabetes or poor circulation. The staff of doctors, nurses, and technicians at North Fulton Hospital Wound Care & Hyperbarics will work to find the underlying cause of wounds and provide advanced therapies tailored to meet each specific wound’s needs. The types of wounds treated include non-healing surgical wounds; diabetic, pressure, venous stasis and arterial ulcers; trauma wounds and crush injuries; burns, compromised skin grafts and flaps; radiation damage to soft tissue or bone (Osteoradionecrosis); gangrene; osteomyelitis (bone infections); and soft-tissue infections. North Fulton Hospital Wound Care & Hyperbarics offers a full range of therapies for wound treatment, including conventional and specialty dressings; debridement or the removal of dead tissue from a wound; compression therapy; offloading; negative pressure wound therapy; and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Please call for appointments: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. 3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell. 770-751-2830, NFultonHospital.com
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
in the
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osquito Squad of Alpharetta has been protecting homeowners against mosquitoes in North Fulton and Forsyth counties for more than four years. Mosquito Squad is locally owned and operated by Susan Elisha, whose focus is to facilitate an environment where team members treat clients’ homes as their Susan Elisha, owner & own and foster a sense of caring for the operator of Mosquito Squad of Alpharetta primary mission — to more effectively control mosquito occurrence so that families can enjoy their backyards to the fullest. The team members are devoted to providing personal attention to detail of each yard’s individual needs, including being mindful of plants/flowers, other workers and children’s play areas. Mosquito Squad technicians can advise homeowners on how to more effectively manage the mosquito problem for their unique terrain, because each yard is different and requires individual attention. With superior customer service as their top priority, Susan and the Mosquito Squad team work closely with individual homeowners to provide quality care and service unique to their outdoor environment — offering a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee to effectively reduce mosquito occurrence for greater outdoor enjoyment. Mosquito Squad of Alpharetta was established after recognizing the need for mosquito control through sister company Archadeck Outdoor Living, which has specialized in backyard makeovers by designing and building such outdoor living spaces as decks, patios, porches, sunrooms, outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens in metro Atlanta for more than 30 years. Archadeck wanted to enhance the functionality of its beautiful backyard makeovers by eliminating mosquitoes.
limelight
While mosquitoes are definitely nuisance pests, they also spread or cause many diseases, including West Nile Virus, Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, Eastern Equine Encephalitus, and even heartworm in dogs. Mosquito Squad’s effective elimination and control of mosquitoes is the perfect complement to an Archadeck Outdoor Living project. Archadeck customers in Roswell and Alpharetta enjoy a free trial of Mosquito Squad’s proven barrier spray treatment.
How easy is it to use and schedule mosquito treatments? When you purchase a season of mosquito barrier spray treatments, your yard will be treated every three weeks. A route coordinator will email you a reminder one day before each scheduled spray, and the technician will leave a “service ticket” on your front door to indicate the services performed and the time of the service call. Mosquito Squad recommends staying off the yard for approximately 30 minutes after the yard is treated. Mosquito Squad customers enjoy season-long protection April through October. You won’t have to do anything except enjoy your yard. Mosquito Squad also does “event” sprays for special occasions like weddings, graduation parties, family reunions or whatever special occasion you want to celebrate.
Learn more about Mosquito Squad of Alpharetta by searching their reviews on Kudzu.com.
770-807-7791
Alpharetta@MosquitoSquad.com
MosquitoSquad.com
Giving Back to Help End Malaria Deaths
Mosquito Squad recognizes how fortunate we are in the United States to have eliminated malaria, a disease carried by mosquitoes, within our borders. However, malaria has not yet been eradicated worldwide. Every 60 seconds, a child dies from this curable and preventable disease.
Each year, Mosquito Squad of Alpharetta donates $1 for every customer to Malaria No More.
Every dollar donated to MalariaNoMore.org goes toward the organization’s “Power of One” campaign, which provides life-saving tests and treatment to children diagnosed with malaria. One dollar = one life! It’s a very worthy cause.
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Mayor’s
Minute By Mayor Jere Wood
Roswell’s Future: A Walkable Community
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hen Roswell incorporated as a city in 1854, its city limits extended one mile in every direction from the Presbyterian Church. Barrington King and everyone else in town walked to work, to the store, to church, and everywhere else they needed to go every day. When I was growing up, Roswell was transforming into a suburban city where you needed a car to go anywhere. New developments did not have sidewalks because no one walked. Today, Roswell is one of the largest cities in Georgia, and I still need a car or bicycle to get anywhere. But, residents who live in Old Town Roswell (the corridor along Highway 9, south of Holcomb Bridge Road, including Canton Street) can walk everywhere they need to go. Roswell is not the only city that is developing a walkable community. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) found that during the recent recession, more than 50 percent of the new construction in metro Atlanta occurred on less than 5 percent of the land in areas identified as walkable communities, including Roswell. Sandy Springs and
Alpharetta are spending a total of $85 million to create walkable communities in their cities. Because walkable communities are more compact, they cost less to construct and maintain than typical suburban communities. Walkable communities take less land and asphalt, and fewer electric, water and sewer lines. Because walking is encouraged and cars are not necessary, walkable communities generate less traffic. Because it is compact, Old Town Roswell can absorb all of Roswell’s growth for the next 20 years. The growth and success of Canton Street has helped all of Roswell by creating an attractive and lively town center. The growth of Old Town Roswell will build on the success of Canton Street. Converting half-empty strip centers and aging apartments into walkable neighborhoods will raise property values, lower crime rates, and improve the health of nearby property. Because the size of a walkable community is limited to walking distances, growth in Old Town Roswell will not encroach on established subdivisions.
The ARC classified Old Town Roswell as a “Silver” walkable community because it is still in the process of redevelopment and needs governmental assistance to reach its full potential. The Roswell City Council is providing such assistance, having recently voted to approve the first reading of a new zoning code called the “Unified Development Code” to allow more compact redevelopment with a mixture of residential and commercial uses. The Roswell Transportation Dept. is looking for ways to make more street and sidewalk connections. Our Public Works Dept. is studying multi-party detention ponds to handle storm water runoff from small developments. The city council is drafting design guidelines to ensure new construction is in line with what Roswell wants. Single-family subdivisions will remain the primary form of housing in Roswell, but Old Town Roswell offers another housing choice for those who want to live in a walkable community. I envy the residents of Old Town Roswell who can walk to Canton Street and don’t have to drive in traffic every day.
Jere Wood is the mayor of Roswell. 770-594-6288, MayorWood@Roswell.Gov.com
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
Do You Learn Better Outside of the Office? By Arlene Dickerson Over the last 10 years, technology has made it possible to learn many different things from the comfort of your own desk. Whether it’s having better access to training documents, streaming video from an archive, or joining a webinar or online class, we have the ability to pick up new skills left and right. This instant access to so much knowledge is great, but do you have the time to access it and gain the mastery you need? Most of us do; however, constant interruptions can make it difficult to
get the total sum of time you may need to complete a webinar or online class. Sure, you can block out time on your calendar to participate in an online class; you won’t have other appointments or obligations scheduled in that window. But, will you get an unexpected call or email? That is very likely. When you’re trying to learn a new skill, especially one in an area that you don’t normally practice in every day, you may learn more effectively if you leave your desk or office and go to a classroom. Opting to gain knowledge away from your day-to-day life gives you room to focus without the normal interruptions that cross your desk. Make sure you get the most out of your time away from your desk by turning off your cell phone or putting it on silent. If your class is using computers with web access, resist the urge to log into your email. Wait until the class’s allotted break time to check your phone or email.
These steps will allow you to focus on your class, as well as help clear your mind to come up with new ideas or find a solution to an issue that has been eluding you. With your new understanding, you will return to your desk refreshed and with a mastery of the skill that would have taken much longer to gain if you had been fielding phone calls and emails while trying to learn.
Arlene Dickerson is the co-owner/ director of Technical Resource Solutions. 678-928-9491, TechnicalRS.com
Be the first to find the photo where these pieces belong! Please email art@familylifepublications.com to submit your answer. Be sure to include the magazine title, your name and contact information (address, phone & email). Only emailed answers with full information will be accepted. Individuals can win only once per calendar year. Happy Hunting!
Congratulations to our February winner, Tammra Baker!
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2014
Legislative Agenda By Senator John Albers
T
he Georgia General Assembly began the second half of the 152nd biennial term on January 13. This year promises to be a fast-paced session with endless opportunities to further strengthen our state’s position as one of the top places in the nation to do business. Since this is the second term of a biennial term, all bills that did not pass last year are eligible for reconsideration during the 2014 session. Throughout the 40-day session, we are likely to see bills that focus on strengthening our state’s economy, improving our education system and protecting public safety. Job creation and getting our economy back on track continues to be my top priority, and is the recurring theme that I hear most often from Georgians throughout the state. The State of Georgia is home to hundreds of thousands of businesses that keep our local communities thriving. This remarkable trend in economic growth is the direct result of our
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state’s ongoing commitment to drive innovation, reduce business costs and cultivate an environment right for economic success. As a result of these pro-business policies, Georgia has added approximately 217,000 new jobs over the past three years. Another positive indicator of our state’s business climate is our unemployment rate, which has continued to decline steadily since the height of the recession. The state budget is also showing signs of improvement. During Governor Deal’s recent “State of the State” address, he proposed a $20.8 billion budget for FY2015, which includes a large funding increase for K-12 and higher-education initiatives. Georgia is home to nearly 90 accredited colleges, universities and technical schools that graduate a combined total of 50,000 students annually. Providing funding for Georgia’s educational programs is paramount to making our
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
state an attractive destination for business and ensuring a talented, highly skilled workforce. The FY2015 budget also allocates funding to ensure the public safety of all Georgians, setting aside $12.1 million to maintain current case workers and $9.2 million to create 202 new jobs overseeing the welfare of children and the elderly. Additionally, the proposed budget allocates $5 million for the expansion of adult felony drug and mental health accountability courts and the community-based Juvenile Incentive Funding Grant. Both are an essential part of the criminal justice and juvenile justice reform bills passed in 2012 and 2013. Although the bills proposed each session change from year to year, our focus on probusiness legislation remains constant. Georgia’s economic recovery can only continue if our state maintains a strong pro-growth environment that creates job opportunities for all Georgians.
“Job creation and getting our economy back on track continues to be my top priority, and is the recurring theme that I hear most often from Georgians throughout the state.” Senator John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of North Fulton county. 404-463-8055, John.Albers@Senate.Ga.Gov
Are Your
Outlets Safe?
By Nick Roper Some of you may be familiar with “Blue Collar” comedian Jeff Foxworthy. In one of his performances, he talks about the lack of safety around his childhood home — including the time when his father encouraged him to go ahead and stick a penny into an electrical outlet to find out what would happen. While he makes this situation sound funny, it is, in fact, a dangerous situation that occurs far too often and can result in serious injury or death. Many retail stores sell plastic inserts that you can plug into outlets that are intended to prevent children from inserting small metal objects into outlets.
They are a relatively inexpensive way to provide a certain amount of safety for your children. However, recent studies have shown they can become a choking hazard, which is counterproductive to their purpose as a safety measure. Georgia is one of at least 33 states to have adopted the National Electric Code that requires tamper-resistant outlets (five other states have adopted it across various local jurisdictions). Tamper-resistant outlets have a builtin shutter system that prevents objects from entering the outlets unless both sides of the outlet are pressed. Unlike the plastic inserts that can be removed, these outlets offer automatic, continuous and permanent protection against electrical shocks or burns. These outlets are also a selling feature to potential buyers with children. If your home was built before the code change, your existing wiring should support an upgrade to the new tamper-
resistant outlets. This update should be completed by a licensed electrician; normally, it is a relatively affordable installation that can be completed in a few hours (depending on the size of your home) without damage to sheetrock or paint. Some tamperresistant outlets have built-in USB ports for charging mobile devices. Please keep in mind that while these tamper-resistant outlets come in a variety of color options to match your home décor, they are a safety upgrade and not a cosmetic upgrade. Tamper-resistant outlets are highly recommended by electricians and in compliance with current National Electric Code requirements.
Nick Roper is manager of business development for H&H Electric and Security LLC. 770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net
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in the kitchen
Vintage Pizzeria in the Crabapple/Milton area has New Jersey-inspired thin-crust pizza. Monday through Saturday, Vintage Pizzeria offers a great lunch special that includes a drink, salad, and overly large slice of pizza with one topping for $7.50. Come in for “Wine Down Wednesday,” when all bottles of wine are half price. Trivia buffs, come in at 7:00 p.m. on Thursdays to test your trivia for a chance to win Vintage Pizzeria gift certificates. 12540 Broadwell Road, Milton. 770-817-6000, VintagePizzeria.com
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Irish Dinner Party Cooking Class Want to cook a traditional Irish dinner for St. Patrick’s Day? Chef John Wilson will offer an “Irish Dinner Party” cooking class at Barrington Hall that will feature smoked mushroom soup, Irish soda bread, Irish stew, and bread pudding with Irish whiskey sauce. The reservation fee will include the class, dining in the Barrington Hall kitchen with complimentary wine, and a free mini tour of Barrington Hall. Ages 21 and up; reservation is required. 6:30-9:30 p.m., March 11, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. 770-640-3855, RoswellGov.com
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
fun for teens
Vintage Pizzeria Specials
with the help of Michelle and Suzanne at ScoopOTP, we found some. Curious for more? Visit ScoopOTP.com!
support the arts
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Food & fun
Family of
Looking for family fun things to do? We are too! And
Free Dance Classes If you know of a local teen who wants to learn to dance, JV Outreach 501(C)(3) provides trained instructors to help make a positive difference in the lives of young people through dance. Free dance lessons, including Remixx, a fusion of hip-hop, salsa and ballroom dancing, are offered to middle and high school students on Saturdays at Dancefx. 4:00-5:00 p.m., 8465 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-912-1057, Info@JVOutreach.org
‘Art in Bloom’ Experience art and flowers in a fresh way as the Johns Creek Arts Center presents “Art in Bloom,” a celebration of timeless art interpreted by some of the Southeast’s most talented floral designers. The “Art in Bloom” gala and exhibition will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. Proceeds will help support the Johns Creek Arts Center, a 501(C)(3) nonprofit group whose mission is to inspire artistic development for youth and adults by providing affordable quality cultural arts education. Tickets can be purchased online. 7:00-10:00 p.m., March 20, 10700 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. 770-623-8448, JohnsCreekArts.org
Viking Cruises Offer
Explore More™ Extensions By Michael Consoli
Viking Cruises has announced the availability of six additional Explore More™ land extensions for 2014. The new extensions allow Viking guests to explore some of Europe’s finest cities before or after their cruise and to customize a unique itinerary to fit their interests through the services of Viking’s on-site concierges. “Viking’s itineraries are designed to show travelers the world in a unique and in-depth way, and these new land extensions provide an additional way to maximize and personalize that experience,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises. “Our concierges are friendly, local experts, whose assistance ensures that our guests have the same warm, personal Viking experience on land as they do onboard, while seeing the city in interesting new ways.” LIFESTYLE
Similar to Viking’s carefully crafted cruise itineraries, these new Viking land extensions provide guests with options to customize their experience to suit their interests. All extensions begin with a walking tour to familiarize guests with the area and include hand-picked, high-quality hotel accommodations. With a Viking concierge available on site at the hotel, travelers have a local host to help them make the most of their trip. New excursions for 2014 include:
Bruges (3 nights; available with Rhine Getaway): Recently named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s most popular cities in Europe, Bruges offers some of Europe’s finest dining, scenic squares set among medieval houses, charming bridges and beautiful canals. With the onsite Viking concierge, travelers will feel right at home. Prices start at $699 per person.
Kraków (3 nights; available with Elegant Elbe): In addition to exploring one of Poland’s oldest and largest cities long hidden behind the Iron Curtain, Viking’s concierge can help guests plan a visit to the moving site of nearby Auschwitz or the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mine. Prices start at $699 per person. Nuremberg (2 nights; available with Romantic Danube): Guests will enjoy a guided tour of historic Nuremberg Castle, and Viking’s concierge can help guests make the most of their time by planning a visit to the Germanische National Museum or a nearby Brauhaus to experience an authentic German beer hall up close. Prices start at $399 per person.
French Riviera (3 nights; available with Portraits of Southern France or France’s Finest): Guests can take in the glitz and glamour
of Nice with a guided tour of the coastal resort town. Then, relax on the beach; or take in the cosmopolitan sites of nearby St. Tropez, Cannes or Monaco with customized arrangements made by their Viking concierge. Prices start at $799 per person.
The Hague (2 nights; available with Tulips & Windmills): Following a guided tour of The Hague, guests can have their Viking concierge arrange visits to local great art collections from 17th-century Dutch masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt, to modern works by Monet, Mondrian and Picasso. Prices start at $499 per person. Lake Geneva (3 nights; available with Rhine Getaway): Guests will enjoy the beautiful scenery of Montreux, one of the loveliest resorts on Lake Geneva, and their Viking concierge can provide a customized plan for a Swiss Riviera wine tour or a ride on the Golden Pass train through beautiful Alpine scenery. Prices start at $799 per person. L
Michael Consoli is a professional travel and cruise specialist and owner of Cruise Planners. 770-650-7667, PlanMyCruise.com
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Community Johns Creek-North Fulton Rotary Supports Local Arts The Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton held special fundraising events recently to support the local arts and symphony programs. The Rotary club presented the Johns Creek Arts Center and Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra each with a check for $1,125 during a recent Rotary event. “These two organizations are very deserving of these funds,” said Mike Kopp, president of the Rotary Club of Johns CreekNorth Fulton. “Both the Arts Center and Symphony are vital to the Johns Creek community, and we are happy to support them in any way we can.” Johns Creek-North Fulton Rotary Club assists organizations and programs — including local libraries, military families, Habitat for Humanity, awareness of human trafficking, and Rotary International’s global initiatives to eradicate Polio and bring clean drinking water to people in less-developed countries in the world.
Alpharetta Rotary Welcomes International Student
Alpharetta Rotary Club’s Lee Mohler (right) welcomes GRSP student Luma Moreschi from Brazil to a recent Rotary meeting.
Alpharetta Rotary Club members enjoyed a visit recently from 20132014 Georgia Rotary student Luma Moreschi. Moreschi, from Moringa, Brazil, attends Georgia State University as part of the Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP). Alpharetta Rotary cosponsors a student each year in partnership with several other north Atlanta Rotary clubs.
GRSP is not an exchange program. GRSP is a one-year, non-degree-seeking program that promotes world peace and understanding through the means of education. Students must carry a full load of subjects, maintain good academic standing in school, and allow their transcripts to be released to GRSP. Rotarian Lee Mohler and her family are hosting Moreschi during her participation in GRSP. “Being the host for Luma has been one of the best experiences we have had as a family,” said Mohler. Dan Merkel, Rotary president, added, “The GRSP program is a great opportunity for spreading the Rotary message of peace and friendship to the world.” 18
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
Roswell Historical Society 2014 board and committee chairs
Roswell Historical Society Presents Historical Preservation Awards Roswell Historical Society recognized the efforts of local properties and groups for outstanding service toward historical preservation during its 43rd Annual Officer Installation, held recently at the Gardens at Great Oaks. Drs. Courtney and Mike Rosenthal with Rose Animal Hospital, 362 S. Atlanta St., were recognized for outstanding achievement in the field of preservation by a business or organization that was begun and completed within the past five years, including the restoration or rehabilitation of a structure to be used for a business or institution. Chris Koke, 63 Goulding Place, was honored for outstanding restoration project by an individual that was begun and completed within the past five years, including the restoration or rehabilitation of a house to be used for a residence. Jena Sibille, curator of Fulton County Teaching MuseumNorth, was recognized for distinguished service in the field of preservation by a person, business or organization for outstanding efforts in the field of historic preservation. National Charity League-Gardenia Chapter received the Partner in Preservation Award, presented to an individual, business or organization for outstanding and ongoing support to the society. Accepting on behalf of the National Charity League-Gardenia Chapter were: Gina Manley, president, and Kelly Meer and Carolyn Osborne, liaisons to the Roswell Historical Society. Installed as 2014 board members and committee chairs for the Roswell Historical Society were: Johanna Harned, president; Jennifer Todd, vice president of membership; Cecilia Fly, vice president of fundraising; Archie Ricard, treasurer; Mary Heydon, recording secretary; Sandra Milhollin, corresponding secretary; Judy Meer and Sherron Lawson, Hembree Farm Focus Project chairs; Florence Anne Berna, public relations; Forrest Wolff, newsletter; Lisa Simpson, tour coordinator; Kitty Cobb, hospitality; Gwendolyn Dinsmore, preservation awards/markers; and Sherron Lawson, decorative arts curator.
in the
Now more than ever, it is important to find a smarter way to bank for you, your family, and your small business. LGE Community Credit Union is a great alternative to the big banks, offering better rates and lower fees on such services as savings and checking accounts, auto loans, home loans, and even business accounts. LGE has been a local, federally insured banking option for more than 60 years, and now offers a smarter way to bank in Roswell.
How is a credit union different from a bank?
There are several key differences. Most importantly, a credit union has no stockholders and no paid directors. So, instead of setting aside profits for those individuals, LGE is able to offer its account holders higher earnings on personal checking and savings accounts, lower rates on loans, and lower fees than one would typically find at a bank. Credit unions exist to serve their account holders, or members. The emphasis is on people, not profits. Also, many people don’t realize that LGE is federally insured, meaning your money is safe.
Are credit unions limited in their services?
No, not at all. Credit unions like LGE are able to offer full-service banking, such as a variety of personal and business accounts, online and mobile services (like Bill Pay and Mobile Apps), and ATM services. LGE offers an expanded line of services with LGE Insurance Services, LLC* and LGE Investment and Retirement Services**. These in-house businesses
limelight
Left to right: Tia Solomon; Lori Worthington; Seth Robinson; Jamie Mackrell; Drew Brannon; Ashley Rowe
are available to LGE members and provide financial services in addition to LGE’s attractive deposit and loan offerings.
Small business solutions
LGE also offers business accounts, including deposit accounts, like checking and savings accounts, and both SBA and conventional business loans, like Visa® credit cards, vehicle loans, commercial real estate and other commercial loans for your business. If you are interested in bringing your business banking to LGE or have questions about any of the accounts, please visit LGE’s website for more details.
Personal Banking • Checking and Savings Accounts • Loans – Auto, Mortgage, Lines of Credit and more • Credit Cards • E-Services (Online Banking, Bill Pay, Mobile Banking) Business Banking • Checking and Savings Accounts • Business Loans, both SBA and Conventional • Business Credit Cards
A smarter way to bank
Visit LGE’s website (LGEccu.org) or stop by its new Roswell location to learn how the credit union can help you achieve your financial well-being. The Roswell branch is located at 1010 Mansell Road (next to Hennessy Porsche). Lobby hours are Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Drew Brannon, Retail Manager
* Offered by LGE Insurance Services, LLC. ** Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (“CFS”), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS: are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of the credit union, and may involve investment risk, including possible loss of principal. Investment Representatives are registered through CFS. LGE Community Credit Union has contracted with CFS to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members.
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Saving Pets & Sharing Love in North Fulton
F
ounded in 1873, the Atlanta Humane Society is the oldest private charitable organization in Atlanta. Only recently, however, did the organization expand its reach to the North Fulton area. On December 3, 2011, Atlanta Humane Society opened a location on Mansell Road in Alpharetta. The 32,000-square-foot building, previously a showroom for a local car dealership, was transformed into a sanctuary for the city’s homeless dogs and cats. Last year, 3,365 animals found new homes through the Mansell campus.
If you’re short on both time and money, something as simple as collecting and donating newspapers, towels, toilet paper rolls and plastic bags can be a huge help to the shelter. Newspapers are shredded and used to keep puppy pens neat and tidy, and toilet paper rolls make excellent chew toys for teething puppies. A full wish list can be found on Atlanta Humane Society’s website. Wish List Drives are great projects for students, Girl Scout troops and local businesses.
While adoptions are a large part of Atlanta Humane Society’s operation, the nonprofit organization touches the community in many other ways. One of its most impactful initiatives is the Low-Cost Spay/Neuter program. Shelters throughout the state are constantly overwhelmed by unwanted litters of kittens and puppies. The most effective way to end companion animal homelessness is to be proactive; unfortunately, sterilization surgeries can be costly for pet owners. At both of its shelter locations, Atlanta Humane Society performs the surgeries for just $35. That price includes a microchip and rabies vaccination — a $45 value in itself. At the Mansell campus, surgeries are performed every other Tuesday by appointment only. For those who live outside of the metropolitan Atlanta area, Atlanta Humane Society dispatches its state-of-the-art mobile Surgical Utility Vehicle every week to different counties throughout the state. The low-cost surgeries are performed inside the mobile unit, and the pets can be picked up the same day. Thousands of people and their pets benefit from this service every year.
Atlanta Humane Society relies exclusively on the support of the community. It is not affiliated with any national organizations, such as the Humane Society of the United States or the ASPCA. It does not receive funding from the government or from United Way. It is only thanks to generous donors that the shelter is able to operate and save the lives of Georgia’s homeless pets. For more information about this animal welfare organization or to make a donation, please visit AtlantaHumane.org.
Even those who aren’t looking for a new pet can still find ways to get involved and make a difference. Atlanta Humane Society is always seeking new volunteers to help walk dogs, socialize cats, bathe animals and greet guests. Volunteers can also help at community events. Atlanta Humane Society often has a presence at local farmers’ markets, festivals and parades. In addition, Atlanta Humane Society will host a fundraising gala at the Mansell Campus this spring, featuring a silent auction, live music and behindthe-scenes tours (please visit AtlantaHumane.org for more details about this event). 20
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
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Atlanta Humane Society-Mansell Campus 1565 Mansell Road, Alpharetta 404-875-5331, AtlantaHumane.org
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cable boxes, speakers, universal remotes, and more. While I won’t name any specific TV brands to stay away from for fear of getting sued, I do recommend Samsung, LG, Panasonic, and Sony. Stick to Yamaha, Denon, and Marantz for surround-sound receivers, and stay away from the ones with a built-in DVD player. Speakers are more forgiving in most brands, but go with a company that gives a lifetime warranty, like Klipsch or Niles. When it comes to remote controls, I suggest staying away from Logitech. If I could sue them for their defective battery packs I would. Instead, buy from URC or Control4. These remotes use AA batteries instead.
Troubleshooting Electronic Glitches By Michael Buckner
Unfortunately, we all deal with electronics that break or don’t work properly from time to time. I compare digital devices to 2-year-olds: Sometimes they do what you want, sometimes they don’t; and, they usually misbehave at the worst moments. While I cannot fix that reality, I can make a few recommendations based on my experience in the field that may reduce your level of frustration. First of all, buy decent brands. I have installed hundreds of brands of TVs,
Let’s say you’ve bought the better products and are still having issues. First, don’t let that misbehaving box get the
better of you. Approximately 75 percent of problems can be solved by checking two areas: Is it plugged in? Is it turned on? If so, try a simple reboot. This happens a lot with cable boxes and occasionally with TVs and receivers. While these tips certainly will not alleviate all of your problems, they should help in most cases. Lastly, swallow your pride, get to know a nerd, and ask (or pay) him for help. It’s completely normal to not know all the inputs and outputs on the back of a surround-sound receiver. If you don’t know how to connect everything properly, you’re no different than 80 percent of the population! I don’t know how to work on my HVAC system — why should you know audio/video integration?
Michael Buckner is owner of Audio Intersection, a provider of audio and video in Georgia. 770-479-1000, AudioIntersection.com
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Academic North Fulton Schools Participate in Digital Learning Day Crabapple Crossing Elementary School and Autrey Middle School joined other schools in Fulton County School’s Digital Learning Day, held February 5 as part of a national campaign. The program began in 2012 to illustrate the effective use of technology in the classroom. Media specialists in Fulton County schools headed up efforts to showcase student work and exhibit interactive uses of technology. At Crabapple Crossing Elementary School, teachers were trained on how to use iMovie in the classroom to help students create their own mini movies using digital technology. The students’ iMovies were played over the school’s closed-circuit broadcast during a PTA family event at the end of the week. Parents also had the opportunity to learn about Digital Citizenship and Internet Safety during another PTA meeting at the school. At Autrey Mill Middle School, seventh-grade social studies students conducted a geocache scavenger hunt, searching the whole school for information about Kenya and Nigeria as part of their African studies unit. At each location, students used school iPads or their own devices to scan QR codes and answer questions.
Mountain Park Elementary Presents ‘Little Mermaid Jr.’ Musical The Drama Club at Mountain Park Elementary School (MPES) brought to life Disney’s magical “under the sea” story of a young mermaid, Ariel, as she breaks from her father, King Triton, to be with her love, Prince Eric. More than 200 students took part in the production, based on Disney’s 2008 Broadway hit, which included MPES Drama Club’s own inventive scenery and hit songs like the Oscar®-winning “Under the Sea.” Performances were held February 27-March 1 at the Milton Center in Alpharetta.
NES Wins Reading Bowl Northwood Elementary School (NES) in Roswell has won Fulton County Schools’ Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl Competition for the second consecutive year. Students read from a list of 14 nominated books, studying and discussing them in depth in preparation for the competition. NES competed against 10 other Fulton elementary schools in a round robin format, one on one. Just like last year, Northwood’s team secured the top spot by a margin of one correct question. Members of the team (pictured left to right) are: Annie Cloonan, Kelli Morgan, Maci Cottingham, Taylor Graham, Jackson Courtney, Alex Krajewski, Skyler DeWitt, Maggie Nolen, Sophia Refeca, and Chase Critser. Also pictured are Claudia Tillison, NES Media Center parapro, and Cheryl Corrigan, Media instructor/team coach.
High Meadows Celebrates 40 Years High Meadows School in Roswell celebrated its 40th year as a private, independent school for grades K-8 with a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new Connections Cabana and Memaw’s Garden Gazebo. Special guests included Roswell Mayor Jere Wood; Roswell City Council member Betty Price; and Doreen Scascitelli from Roswell Inc., among others. In addition, High Meadows Band performed “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Imagine.” Alumnus Josh Briggs (class of 1999) and parent/trustee Bill Kolbrener were recognized for their dedication and generosity to the building projects. Volunteers who were instrumental in the construction of the gazebo included parent/trustee Jon Ramsey; parents Ingrid Ott, Chris Watford, Tim Philbin, Daniel Smith, and Bronwyn Robinson; Middle Years Environmental Project students, alumna and former art teacher Annie Kimball; and Brian Wilson and Paul Roni, friends of the school. The gazebo was built as a 40th birthday present to the school, in honor of the original vegetable/herb garden of Florence (Memaw) Crawford — the mother of one of High Meadows’ founders, Bill Crawford. “Memaw” also ran the front office and taught art. The garden is now an herb garden that was planned by former Environmental teacher Chris Robie. 22
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
State Bridge Crossing Student Council Sponsors Fundraiser for Northside Hospital’s Student Celebration of Lights By Will Rumbaugh During the recent holiday season, the student council at State Bridge Crossing Elementary School collected donations for Northside Hospital’s Third Annual Student Celebration of Lights. The Celebration of Lights is a fundraiser that helps celebrate or remember a loved one diagnosed with cancer. The proceeds help fund screenings for early detection and treatment at Northside Hospital and goes directly to the Cancer Care Program via the Northside Hospital Foundation. For each dollar that was donated, students received a paper note card, also called a “light,” to decorate. All of the decorated lights were collected at the end of the fundraiser and given to Northside Hospital, where they adorned the meal trays of patients who found themselves hospitalized during the holidays. The student council thought it was important to think of others especially during the holiday season, and this was the perfect project to do just that. They were proud to have raised $1,364.00 for this fantastic cause!
State Bridge Crossing Elementary School Principal Trey Martin and Student Council President Caroline Paine present Northside Hospital Representative Freda Hardage (right) with a check for the Student Celebration of Lights fundraiser.
Will Rumbaugh is area superintendent of Fulton County Schools’ Northeast Learning Community. FultonSchools.org
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COVER STORY
By Michelle Martin Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
W
hen Vishant Nath, D.M.D., decided to open his own pediatric dental practice, his goal was to provide patients (and their parents) with a different type of experience that goes beyond the typical pediatric dental care. “I had worked at a pediatric dental office both during and after my residency, which allowed me to gain valuable experience and perspective about the type of services and environment in my own practice,” he says. “It was important to me to be able to offer to my patients the type of care and comfort that I would want for my own family.” Dr. Nath found a prime location in Roswell, where he lives with his family, and opened Roswell Pediatric Dentistry in 2005. “Roswell is a great location — a very familycentric and close-knit community where everyone knows everyone,” he says. “It’s nice to serve patients in my own community.” From the beginning, Dr. Nath designed Roswell Pediatric Dentistry to be a place that would be comfortable for his young patients and their parents. “We try to make it a fun and welcoming environment from the moment they walk through the door,” he says. The office is decorated with
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fun, bold colors and includes a kids’ play deck with toys, TVs and video games, as well as stuffed animals hanging from the ceilings, and skateboards and surfboards mounted on the walls. To ensure children are as comfortable and relaxed as possible, the office includes private treatment rooms for patients who may have anxiety issues. “Generally speaking, children are fearless and aren’t nervous about coming to the dentist,” Dr. Nath says. “But for those who are, we try to relate to them on their terms and spend extra time with them to make them feel at ease. We also think it’s
important to allow parents to play a role in their children’s dental checkups, so we encourage parents to come back to the treatment rooms with their children if they feel it would be helpful.” Dr. Nath says the community support for his new practice grew quickly, with patients also coming from outlying communities, such as Jasper, Ball Ground, Cumming, Stockbridge and McDonough. “It wasn’t long before patients were asking if we had plans to open an office in surrounding areas. We’re pleased that we are able to offer them the same level of service they have come to value, in several convenient locations,” he says. Dr. Nath expanded his pediatric dental practice with the addition of offices in Canton in 2009; Perimeter in 2011; Milton in 2012; and the newest office in Alpharetta, opening this month. Roswell Pediatric Dentistry and all of Dr. Nath’s dental offices are Medicaid providers. “We recognized that many families in the communities we serve needed a variety of insurance options to make it possible for them to get the quality dental care they need in terms of regular checkups and emergency situations,” he says. “This is just another way of
“It’s very rewarding to know that our patients and parents look to us for all of their dental care.” – Dr. Nath showing our patients that we care about them and work hard to provide the services they need.” Dr. Nath and the entire team of dental care professionals at each office partner with parents to help ensure children understand how to practice good oral healthcare at home and to maintain regular checkups (beginning with the first tooth eruption). He feels it’s important to take a “conservative approach” when monitoring cavities and other issues, and even offers free second opinions to avoid “hasty” fillings that may be avoided with proper brushing and flossing. As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Nath not only treats children under the age
of 21 but also specializes in special needs’ dental care for patients older than 21. And, in his ongoing commitment to offer patients the services they need, Dr. Nath has expanded his practices to include teeth whitening; orthodontic care; general anesthesia by a licensed medical anesthesiologist for procedures that require sedation; and, in recent years, adult dentistry services at the Milton and Alpharetta offices (and soon at the Canton office). “Over the years, our patients and their parents have come to trust us and appreciate the quality care that we provide,” he says.
“They feel comfortable with us. They have a relationship with us. So, they want to enjoy that on the adult side as well. It’s very rewarding to know that our patients and parents look to us for all of their dental care.” WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Dr. Nath’s offices maintain flexible appointment times to accommodate school and work schedules. They encourage good oral health with fun incentives; for example, kids can earn prizes for cavity-free checkups and parents can win gift cards for patient referrals. And, with the evergrowing popularity of social media, Dr. Nath has designed several mobile apps (for iPhone and Android devices) to provide even more services and convenience to patients. My Baby’s Teeth is a free mobile app that shows the development of children’s teeth in their first four years. “Parents can click on the screen and it will show the different teeth children should have at a certain age, and tips for how to care for them,” Dr. Nath explains. A similar app will show the typical progression for children ages 6-14 as they transition from their baby (primary) teeth to permanent teeth. There also is an app specially for the Roswell location. “We developed these apps to make it easier for patients to connect with us, to be more informed about their oral healthcare,” he says. “Everything we do and provide is designed to deliver a positive patient experience.”
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9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday by appointment
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3395 Sixes Road, Suite 140 Canton
678-352-1090 Treating Adults
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10930 Crabapple Road, Suite 106 Roswell
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980 Birmingham Road, Suite 507 Milton
2221 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 2A Atlanta
1030 Cambridge Square, Suite B Alpharetta
Monday-Saturday by appointment
9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday by appointment
Monday-Saturday by appointment
678-352-1033
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770-407-6549
678-352-1090
At-Home
Spring Break Ideas By Christy Noll If you’re already wondering how your family will spend Spring Break, there’s no rule that Spring Break has to be a family vacation away from home. You can enjoy Spring Break right at home with different themes each day to keep the kids engaged and having fun. Consider these crafts, games and other fun at-home ideas that are light on your budget. Your kids may even learn a new hobby or skill! Craft Day — Use Michael’s or JoAnn’s Fabrics’ coupons to purchase a canvas
for your children to paint. Let them dip their hands or feet in paint and then on the canvas, or make their own creative masterpiece. Paint a pot and purchase a spring flower for your children to water regularly and watch it grow. Some other ideas: paper daffodil straws, cardboard tube spring bee, no-sew felt flower bracelets, or felt animal faces on clear glass jars. Cooking Day — Pick several easy recipes and let your children help pick out the ingredients, stir the mixer (or whatever your recipe involves), set the table and clean up afterward. Just be sure to keep the tasks age-appropriate. Ask for your children’s input on recipes, especially where some ingredients can be substituted. If they don’t like broccoli, for example, maybe carrots will work instead. A few recipe ideas are pasta with vegetables; chicken, veggie or fruit kabobs; and salad.
Project Day — Do you have a project that your kids could help with around the house? Have you been meaning to stain the deck, paint your children’s bedrooms, or organize the closets? Or, this spring may be a good time to change up your kids’ rooms by rearranging the furniture. Another idea includes making a scrapbook of pictures or framing your children’s artwork. Volunteer Day — Give back with your time. Check local churches and charities for volunteer opportunities. JumpInToGive.com, founded by Jeff & Jennifer Cole, owners of Sky Zone in Roswell and Suwanee, lists a number of nonprofit organizations where youth can work together to make a difference in their community.
Christy Noll is founder of AlpharettaMoms. org, a resource that connects North Fulton families with community organizations, programs and events.
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A
lot of praise has followed the relatively short career of the four von Grey sisters — Annika, Fiona, Kathryn, and Petra. In 2012, their self-titled EP shot into the iTunes Top 10. And in the past year alone they have appeared on “Late Show with David Letterman,” “Conan,” NBC’s “Rock Center with Brian Williams,” and CNN’s “Road Warriors.” They have opened for Indigo Girls, Sarah McLachlan, Lindsey Stirling, Rusted Root, and Company of Thieves, and have performed at SXSW, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Gathering of the Vibes Festival. Labeled as an indie-alt-folk group, von Grey blends the genres of folk, blues, pop, and soul, and creates a distinctive sound reminiscent of The Corrs Irish band, also comprised of four siblings. “Music has always played a huge role in our family,” says Annika, co-lead singer/co-songwriter and the second-oldest in the band. “We are
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all classically trained and have played together since age 5. It’s like a habit that progressed naturally to the next level. Initially, we performed as a quartet at weddings; now, we use music as our way of self-expression.” von Grey delivers charismatic performances. Harmonious vocals accentuated by acoustic instrumentation and subtly merged with electronic sounds generate a modern, European style that is emphasized by von Grey’s captivating storytelling. It’s hard to believe that those inventive melodies and seasoned lyrics are written and performed by sisters ranging in age from 12 to 17 years old. Annika (violin, banjo, guitar and keys) and eldest sister Fiona (guitar, violin and percussion) share vocals and songwriting duties, while Petra (keys, lap steel guitar, electronic percussion and background vocals) and Kathryn (cello, bass pedals, mandolin, keys and background vocals) also contribute to the band’s success. “Everyone has equal representation, no matter their age or role in the band,” explains Annika. “Our goal is to deliver a well-rounded product. That can only be achieved if all band members are completely comfortable with the lyrics and the
instrumentation choices. As a songwriter, I can get very attached to a song, but everyone in the band has to approve the idea. As in any creative endeavor, that may occasionally involve discussions. Overall, our music is very organic and constantly evolving due to our spectrum of influences and our emotional and personal development.” von Grey’s creative evolution is evident in their latest EP, “Awakening,” a compilation of life experiences shaped by more than 300 performances throughout the past few years. “New situations and environments expand your personal outlook,” Annika says. “Songwriting helps you to make sense of this very complex world.” While the previous EP focused on romantic songs and love ballads, von Grey’s current EP shows the sisters’ meditative self-reflection and describes an awakening from within. So, where do these talented musicians want to take their career? “We want to continue to grow as a band and create music that we are proud of — music that emotionally connects with as many people as possible.”
Heike Hellmann-Brown is a published writer in the United States and Europe. She has translated and edited several New York Times bestsellers and has taught both English and her native German as a foreign language in a career that has spanned more than 20 years.
N
ightVision Outdoor Lighting is Atlanta’s premier outdoor lighting company, specializing in both residential and commercial lighting. We are committed to providing our customers with the greatest possible value, and take pride in providing customer service and satisfaction. NightVision is based locally in Cherokee County, where owners Joe and Linda Dover have lived their entire lives. Joe founded NightVision in 1999 after retiring from Lockheed-Georgia. Having been in business for 15 years and having installed landscape lighting in more than 5,000 homes, we believe this level of experience and expertise defines NightVision Outdoor Lighting as the standard in Atlanta landscape and outdoor lighting. We personally meet with our customers to create customized lighting to enhance their yards and homes. Pathway lights, for example, make walkways and steps
in the
limelight
safer at night; up-lighting gives a distinguished accent to homes, as well as provides security at night. Moon lights provide a tranquil feel and lovely look to yards as they shine down like a full moon on a beautiful night. Landscape lighting and pathway lights give a beautiful appeal to swimming pools and patios. Our company also specializes in commercial outdoor lighting, including pools, tennis courts, clubhouses and community entrances. Whatever your needs or desires, whether for home or business, NightVision is committed to providing prompt service, quality workmanship and great value in creating the perfect light design for you.
NightVision 263 Mountainview Circle, 770-361-8063
nightvisionlighting@yahoo.com
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Taste of Serves 6
Ingredients 6 tablespoons vegetable oil 8 corn tortillas, chopped 6 garlic cloves, minced ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons cumin 1 tablespoon chili powder 3 bay leaves 6 cups chicken broth 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 4 to 6 chicken breasts, cooked, shredded or cubed Garnishes: Shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cubed peeled avocado, sour cream, two corn tortillas, sliced crisp-fried
Preparation Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped corn tortillas, garlic, cilantro and onion. Sauté for two to three minutes or until the onion is transparent. Stir in the tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Add the cumin, chili powder, bay leaves and chicken broth. Return to a boil and reduce the heat. Add the salt and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes. Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the chicken. Simmer until the chicken is heated through. Ladle into soup bowls. Garnish with Monterery Jack cheese, avocado, sour cream and crisp-fried tortillas.
Tortilla Soup
Recipe is from the “At Your Service: Southern Recipes, Places and Traditions” cookbook, produced by the Junior League of Gwinnett & North Fulton Counties (JLGNF). Since 1986, JLGNF has been serving the women and children of Gwinnett, North Fulton and South Forsyth counties. The mission of JLGNF is to strengthen the community by creating and implementing collaborative volunteer projects, including programs aimed at building self-esteem in girls ages 5-8. In addition to the cookbook, JLGNF’s fundraising efforts include an Attic Sale in the fall and the “High Heels High Times” fashion and shopping event in the spring. JLGNF.org
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WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Did ‘SnowJam 2014’
people realize that we are all vulnerable.
By Debra A. Robinson
On that Tuesday morning, we were going about our normal working day, and in the afternoon we were crawling along icy roads. Did you think about your spouse, children, parents or partner, and whether you had put everything in place to provide for them?
Make You Think about a Will?
Studies show that more than 50 percent of the population has no estate planning in place, not even a basic Will. The explanation is that people are busy living their lives and don’t want to think about death. If you were one of the Atlantans who was stuck on the icy roads during “SnowJam 2014,” did you think at any point that you might not make it safely home? Did you worry about what would happen to your family and loved ones? Having a Will is not about you; it’s about ensuring that things go as smoothly as possible for those you love in the event something happens to you. SnowJam 2014 made many
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“Having a Will is not about you; it’s about ensuring that things go as smoothly as possible for those you love in the event something happens to you.” Having a Will gives you peace of mind. You name the person who will be authorized to carry out your wishes, rather than leaving it up to your family members to agree. You leave your assets to those you want to provide for, rather than having them divided according to state law. If you have young children, you name the person who will be Guardian for
them until they reach adulthood, rather than leaving the decision to a judge who doesn’t know your children or your concerns for their well-being. If you have a child or other beneficiary who is bad at managing money, has substance abuse issues, or is in a bad marriage, you can create a trust in your Will to provide income without risking loss of the principal. Being stuck on icy roads for hours on end, with no rescue in sight, made many people realize that catastrophe is only a snowstorm away. After what you experienced in SnowJam 2014, can you find the time to put a valid Will in place to provide for the people you care about?
Debra Robinson is an attorney with Robinson & Miller. 770-817-4999, RobinsonMiller.com
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Staycations Staycations Spring
Local attractions and activities
provide adventure and fun close to home. By Michelle Martin
You don’t have to plan a costly out-of-town getaway to enjoy a change of pace and scenery this spring. Georgia has endless opportunities in your local community and within a short drive for a family day of fun — from outdoor adventures, museums and historical sites to popular attractions, creative arts and more!
Few attractions offer the beauty and serenity that come with a leisurely stroll (or hike) through our state and local parks. The Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources’ “2014 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” is a free, handy resource of the state’s best hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, rafting and canoeing waters. Don Carter State Park in Gainesville is Georgia’s newest state park and the first state park on 38,000-acre Lake Lanier. It has a large, sand swimming beach with a bath house and boat ramps, as well as a paved multi-use trail for hiking and biking (and even strollers). Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth offers scenic hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding through hardwood forests and blueberry thickets, crossing streams and circling a 17-acre lake. Visitors also can explore a stone fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and an ancient rock wall that stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious 855-foot-long wall is thought to have been built by early Indians as fortification against more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. You can also enjoy the outdoors at local sites, such as the 127-acre Chattahoochee Nature Center, 46-acre Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center, and many others. Cogburn Park, Webb Bridge Park and Wills Park in Alpharetta all feature an arboretum. You can also tour the gardens while brushing up on local history at the Mansell House. In Sandy Springs, the John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve features 30 acres of beautiful trees, plants and wildlife. Many of the area gardens and nature centers offer a variety of special children’s activities and programs for Spring Break. 34
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Sports & Recreation You don’t have to play organized sports to have fun. Go for a family bike ride at the various public parks and bicycle trails in North Fulton. With 59.4 miles of bicycle facilities, Roswell was the first city in Georgia to be designated as a “Bicycle Friendly Community” Durhamtown Plantation by the League of American Bicyclists. The new quarter-milelong Kimball Bridge Trail in Johns Creek offers users an 8-foot-wide paved pathway for walking, running and biking. It begins at Kimball Bridge Road and connects to Alpharetta at Webb Bridge Park. Wills Park in Alpharetta features a tournament-ready disc golf course, with challenging holes, new tee positions, concrete tee pads and new baskets. There are no greens or cart fees, and tee times are not necessary. If you’re into horseback riding, there are a number of equestrian centers and farms throughout the North Fulton area. Or, get your fix for high-speed adventure at Andretti Indoor Karting; highflying fun at Sky Zone; or underwater adventure at Scuba Diving at Seaventures in Alpharetta. Durhamtown Plantation, between Union Point and Crawfordville, is a family resort that offers off-road riding with one-way trails and track systems, along with a pro shop and rentals for dirt bikes, ATVs, Side-by-Sides and accessories. The property also features a shooting range, 3.5-acre catfish/bream pond, and hunting.
Photo courtesy of Mike Bouknight, FastBall Photography SC
State Parks & Gardens
s
Atlanta Attractions There’s nothing wrong with acting like a tourist and taking in some of Atlanta’s top attractions. Get a grand view of downtown Atlanta atop the SkyView Atlanta ferris wheel at Centennial Olympic Park! Explore the wonders of the sea at Georgia Aquarium, or explore the land of the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Let your kids’ creativity take center stage at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta at Phipps Plaza. Atlanta.net highlights 50 of Atlanta’s most popular attractions and activities, including World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta and other top spots.
SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel Photo courtesy of SkyView Atlanta/ Gene Ho Photography
Historical Sites Brush up on your Georgia history by visiting some of the state’s historical parks and sites. Whether your interest is in Native Americans, the Civil War, colonial homes or the Gold Rush, you can explore and learn all about Georgia’s role in important events that helped shape U.S. history. With this year marking the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, history buffs may want to visit Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site in Dallas, one of the best preserved Civil War battlefields in the nation. Travel roads used by Federal and Confederate troops, walk the same ravine where hundreds gave their lives, and tour an authentic 1800s pioneer cabin. Also, Sweetwater Creek State Park in Lithia Springs offers museum exhibits and tours of the New Manchester Manufacturing Co. textile mill that was burned during the Civil War. Etowah Indian Mounds Historical Site in Cartersville and New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun chronicle significant events in Native American history, including the starting point of the Trail of Tears. Chief Vann House Historic Site in Chatsworth tells the story of the famous Cherokee Indian leader and wealthy businessman, who established the largest (1,000 acres) and most prosperous plantation in the Cherokee Nation. Dahlonega, located on top of the largest gold deposits found east of the Mississippi River, offers tours of preserved gold mines and the Dahlonega Gold Museum; visitors can even “pan” for gold! In Atlanta, tour the state capitol, or learn about our nation’s 39th president at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. If you’re into science, the 120,000-square-foot Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville features four main galleries (Weinman Mineral Gallery, Fossil Gallery, Science in Motion, and The Collins Family My Big Backyard), along with a digital planetarium and observatory; interactive exhibits; and hands-on experiments. North Fulton is rich with history. In Roswell, visit the Southern Trilogy Historic Homes to learn about Roswell’s Civil War history and cotton mill history at Old Mill Park. Alpharetta’s “Walk of Memories” memorial is the only tribute of its kind in the state. The walkway features nearly 8,000 bricks inscribed with the names of Georgians who have served our country, along with displays that include a WWII M60 tank, a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter, and a 40mm Mark 1 twin gun mount removed from the USS Polk County.
Creative & Performing Arts Tellus Science Museum
If you and your kids are looking for some hands-on or interactive fun, consider a class at one of the local arts centers. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, Georgia Ensemble Theater, Act1 Theater, All Fired Up, and Johns Creek Arts Center, just to name a few, offer a variety of arts and crafts, music and drama activities, as well as programs specially planned for Spring Break. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Tangle of tree roots from a pipe
Plumbing Solutions
for Rooted Sewer Lines By Julie Lippitt
Blocked drains as a result of roots growing in the sewer line can be one of the most frustrating, inconvenient and costly plumbing problems. In a sewer line that has large roots at every joint or multiple broken joints, it is often best to replace the line, especially if cleanings are required frequently. The only permanent solution is complete replacement of your old earthenware plumbing pipes with new PVC pipes. But, if you do not want
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to go to all the trouble and expense of replacing your old sewer pipes, call your plumber and ask about several cost-effective options to keep your sewer line clear and free flowing. Roots in a sewer are often caused by a leaking joint in the line. Typically, these joints have a collar that fits over the pipe and is sealed with lead and oakum on cast iron pipes and cement on vitrified clay pipes. Clay is much more susceptible to leakage and root intrusion. These joints leak a small amount of wastewater into the soil, which attracts the roots. The roots then grow fine roots through the leaking joint; the roots will grow larger and, with the same force that can raise a sidewalk, can eventually break the pipe. They also branch off and grow
larger into the sewer, eventually causing a blockage. On sewer lines that have small amounts of root intrusion, a yearly application of chemical root killer into the line can kill the roots entering the pipe before they grow large enough to break the pipe and damage it. It may take up to a year before the growth of new roots can intrude into the pipe sufficiently to cause a concern and require a reapplication of chemical. Like pruning a tree, though, the very action of clearing the sewer promotes the regrowth of the roots, but this time thicker and more aggressive. The cycle of cut, regrow, cut begins, and soon you are caught up in a costly sewer trap.
Julie & Rick Lippitt are owners of Pete’s Plumbing in Alpharetta. 770-442-3934, PetesPlumbing.com
Wedding, Prom Hair
Do’s & Don’ts By Laura Stalemark
LIFESTYLE Wedding and prom seasons are gearing up. If you’re looking for a special hairstyle for your wedding day or prom night, here are some simple ways to get the look you want without stress.
Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your hair and makeup appointments. Stylists/makeup artists who have a good reputation for special-event looks get booked up well in advance. Some salons offer both services; for those that don’t, you will need to schedule your different appointments so that you are not rushed on your special day.
Arrive on time. Salons often schedule multiple special-occasion appointments on any given day, so it is important that their clients stay on schedule. Be courteous to the clients scheduled after you by arriving on time for your own appointment. That way, you don’t lose any of your valuable styling time and don’t run into the next client’s appointment. To be on the safe side, arrive early — if you’re not five minutes early, you’re already late! Your stylist is there to help you achieve your perfect look; don’t create unnecessary stress by arriving late. Experiment early. Brides especially may want to try out a few different hairstyles. Find photos of hairstyles that reflect your hair length, thickness and color. Also, try to find examples of makeup styles and colors that will complement your skin tone and face shape. Pinterest is a great site to “pin” some ideas to share with your stylist.
Price your style and services. Some salons like to style hair that is not freshly washed, while others prefer to start your service with a shampoo. Ask questions before you book so you are not surprised if you don’t receive a shampoo. Some styles may hold longer if your hair isn’t freshly washed. Also, be sure to ask about pricing for different styles, such as up-dos, “half-ups,” and down styles. Pricing also varies depending on length and thickness of the hair. Finally, it’s a good idea to wear a shirt (without a collar) that buttons to the salon. You’ll find it easier to change into your dress without messing up your hair and makeup. Have a fun, safe and stylish wedding/prom! L
Laura Stalemark is owner of Tryst Hair Salon & Boutique in Alpharetta. 770-772-7007, AlpharettaHairSalon.com
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A Mid-Life Crisis By Mike Litrel, M.D.
Both Ann and I are early risers. Since the first days of our marriage, we have sat most mornings in the darkness before dawn, talking together and enjoying our morning coffee. It’s my favorite part of the day. Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and I have been blessed with a spouse whose conversation I (usually) find interesting. But, last month, that suddenly changed. No longer was Ann the scintillating woman to whom I had been married for more than 20 years. Almost overnight, she had become…boring. As a rule, our morning “coffee talks” have held my interest. The topics of conversation range from thought-provoking spiritual insights to friendly verbal fencing that
leaves us both laughing. I was worried. Why did my wife suddenly seem so dull? Secretly I pondered possible causes. Maybe I had fallen victim to a low-grade, sub-symptomatic virus. Could being bored by your loved ones be a symptom of the swine flu? Indeed, a virus would explain the fatigue and irritability I was experiencing throughout my work day, tempering even my usual enthusiasm for practicing medicine. But on the other hand, a virus didn’t seem to fit, because overall I remained fairly healthy. Besides, I had already received my vaccinations. Then the headaches began. Each time a patient of mine suffers from a new pain, my underlying concern is cancer. Likewise, I worried about myself: Was this the first symptom of a brain tumor? Just as I was entertaining the idea of getting a CAT scan, an even more disturbing diagnosis occurred to me. Maybe I was having a mid-life crisis. A mid-life crisis is no laughing matter. A mid-life crisis seemed an even worse possibility than a brain tumor. When you are confused about yourself, about
the meaning of your life, when you have no connection with the higher purpose for your existence, you can make bad decisions that cause a great deal of pain down the road. Finally, one last diagnosis occurred to me — a diagnosis that could explain every one of the symptoms I was experiencing. I just couldn’t imagine Ann would betray me in this way. Sadly, when I confronted her, she confessed. Clandestinely, Ann had changed my morning coffee to decaf. It was an outrage! A tumult of conflicting emotions washed over me: anger, relief, disbelief — and then concern. Is it possible my marital relationship is not based upon love, respect and admiration, but rather on caffeine? Was my wife the source of my morning happiness, or was it Starbucks? Couples who make time for each other — even if it comes with coffee — grow healthier marriages than those who don’t. Certainly, the high-octane coffee that I prefer isn’t as healthy for you as decaffeinated coffee; but, the way I see it, divorce is not healthy either, particularly from a loving, supportive, albeit surreptitious, spouse such as mine. So, Ann and I have since compromised on the coffee, now brewing half-caffeinated, half-decaf in the mornings. And, even with this diluted morning mix, my marriage has never been better. I just make sure I drink two cups. Dr. Mike Litrel is a national speaker and author on the faith-health connection, and a board-certified OB/GYN and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. MikeLitrelMD.com
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Saving Time By Crystal Bryant As spring approaches each year, we see and experience a lot of changes. We even change the time of day itself. I find it interesting that we call it “Daylight Savings Time,” as if we can somehow “save” time. The older we get, the more time seems to be our enemy, as we feel we have less and less of it.
Not a day goes by that I don’t wish I could somehow save time, have more time, or stop time. I have always struggled with managing a schedule and fitting in everything I feel I need to in a day. But, at the end of each day I still find myself looking back to see who or which task got “cheated.” Most of us feel that our busy schedules and demands leave someone or something “cheated” every day. When we are young, we sacrifice rest for our bodies in an effort to pack more activities into the day. A youthful body can usually compensate, but as we get older our bodies speak up more loudly when we don’t get the proper rest that we need. Then, it seems both work and family scream for our attention. Unfortunately, many times we cannot satisfy them both. I am lucky to have a job that allows me to work from home and, for the most part, set my own hours. I have a very understanding boss and a very patient
family. But, as I have struggled with some health issues the past couple of years, I have come to realize that there will never be enough time. So, I must make the hard decision every day of what my priorities are — and not every day is the same. I have also come to realize that spending a few minutes here or there with my children, my husband, reading the Bible, or doing something for my health can make a huge difference. I don’t have to carve out an hour or more to make it meaningful. A lot can happen in a moment, as my 4-year-old has taught me. We can’t get more time, but we can make every moment count.
Crystal Bryant is the wife of Pastor Chris Bryant at City On A Hill United Methodist Church in Woodstock. She is involved in women’s, prayer and children’s ministries. 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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A beginner’s guide to picking the right pet for your family and providing loving care for a
long, healthy life. By Michelle Martin
G
etting a family pet is an exciting time for everyone, especially if it’s your children’s first pet. While a pet can bring a lot of love and joy to your lives, it also brings added responsibilities and special care. It is important to understand the commitment that comes with having a pet and to carefully consider the type of pet that would be best suited to your individual home and lifestyle, according to veterinary doctors with the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA) and the University of Georgia Community Practice Clinic (UGA CPC), part of the university’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Ira Roth, D.V.M., director of UGA CPC, recommends consulting with a veterinarian who can advise you on general care, responsibilities, and common behavioral and medical issues on the outset. “The best approach is a partnership approach between you and the veterinarian as your pet
develops over the years,” he says. “You can’t trade in a pet like a car or just put it away when you’re finished playing with it, so it’s imperative to do your due diligence instead of just jumping into it.”
Age:
If you have young children, you may be concerned that they are not big enough or old enough to take on the responsibility of caring for a pet. Duffy Jones, D.V.M., president-elect of GVMA, suggests children be at least 4 years old before getting a pet. “Usually by the age of 4, children can understand how to interact with the pet and can help with daily feeding,” he says. “Before the age of 4, children may be too small to play with a pet without getting bitten or scratched.”
Responsibilities: Having a pet goes beyond the
obvious day-to-day responsibilities of providing food, water and shelter. Caring for a pet is a commitment much like having a baby, as many dogs and cats often live 1418 years. “Many times, those first few weeks of having a pet are similar to having a newborn baby,” says Dr. Jones. “There will be lots of cleaning up poop and waking during the night; fortunately, it gets better quickly.” You may also have to change your schedule in order to let your pet out during the day or get home by a certain time every night so your pet isn’t left at home alone. With dogs, training may be required to help them assimilate to home life and correct biting, chewing, and aggressive behavior. You should also be prepared for the financial responsibility of having a pet. Dr. Roth estimates that basic preventative care, including vaccinations, parasite control and food, can cost $500-$1,000 annually. Then, there are the added expenses of grooming, boarding and unexpected medical costs. “Sadly, many pet owners are faced with making hard decisions about their pets because they cannot afford costly medical care,” he says. “Pet insurance now makes it possible for pet owners to get their pets the treatments they need but otherwise couldn’t afford.” Pet insurance works much like
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
regular medical insurance, with a monthly premium and deductible, and covers car injuries, diabetes and other common pet problems.
Ask yourself the following questions to help determine if your family is ready to take on the responsibility of caring for a pet:
• Does your schedule make it possible to give the pet the care it needs?
• Are you willing to invest the time involved in properly training your pet to assimilate to its new home?
• Are you prepared for the financial investment of caring for a pet?
• Is your home an ideal, safe environment for a pet?
The biggest responsibility of having a pet, Dr. Roth feels, is spending time with it. “Keeping your dog penned up outside and never spending any real time with it isn’t really what having a pet is all about,” he says. “A pet requires lots of love and care throughout many different life stages — not just when it’s a cute little puppy or kitten.”
Type of pet: Your home and lifestyle may play a
large role in the type of pet that is ideal for your family. If you work long hours or travel a lot, a cat may be a better option than a dog, unless you have a dependable pet sitter or place for boarding. Also, a large dog would not be well suited in a small apartment with little room for the activity that they need daily. Fish, birds, reptiles and other animals also make good pets, but may require special care in terms of adequate space, temperature/humidity settings, and diet and nutritional needs. Dr. Jones also recommends hamsters, gerbils and guinea pigs as a short-term pet. Since their life span is considerably shorter than that of a dog or cat, they may be a good choice to help young children learn how to care for a pet. If you or a member of your household has allergies, Dr. Roth advises consulting with a veterinarian before bringing a pet into your home. “A veterinarian can make recommendations about certain dog or cat breeds that may be less allergenic or can be tolerated with certain allergy medications.”
Pet background: Whether you find your pet
through a local shelter, pet store or private breeder, Drs. Roth and Jones agree that it’s important to know your pet’s background, including medical problems and anxiety with children or other pets. “Shelter dogs often have behavioral issues that may not be obvious until you take them out of the shelter environment,” says Dr. Jones. “Just do your homework to pick a pet that will adjust well to your family and home environment.” WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Is Your Home Pet-Ready? “Baby-proof” your home of these common household hazards to create a loving, safe environment for your new pet:
Behavioral and medical issues:
Pets, just like people, develop medical problems and changes in behavior as they get older. The most common problems with dogs and cats are slower and more limited movement as a result of arthritis; hearing and/or vision loss; and diabetes, heart disease and cancer. “Changes in appetite, water consumption and house-training habits are frequent signs in pets as they get older,” Dr. Roth says. “It is important to focus on disease prevention, parasite control, a well-balanced diet and good dental health, as much of what we see can be identified and treated early.”
Loss of a pet: Losing a pet is a very emotional
experience for adults and children, and how your family deals with it is a very personal decision. “In some instances, children can handle the loss better than adults, because children see things as black and white,” says Dr. Jones. “As children get older, it’s a good idea to explain to them that caring for a pet sometimes means making hard decisions to help ease the pet’s pain and suffering.” Dr. Roth says the emotional toll can be particularly hard on older adults who have had their pets for many years. “Many pet owners feel they have little to look forward to in life once their pet and the daily routine of caring for it are gone. We recommend they bring in another pet either while the first pet is still living or immediately after its passing to fill that emotional void. Our pets become our family, and losing them is just like losing a member of the family.”
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•
Do not feed table scraps (or chocolate, especially to dogs), which could lead to intestinal problems.
•
Remove or secure electrical cords that dogs and cats could chew through.
•
Keep harmful plants out of reach (lilies, not poinsettias, are especially bad for cats; azaleas for dogs).
•
Store medications where pets cannot get into and digest them.
•
Remove antifreeze and other automotive oils/products from lower shelves in the garage.
•
Pick up toys, clothes and strings from the floor.
Dr. Hannis Mize
D
r. Hannis Mize opened Little River Animal Hospital’s doors to the Milton community in November 2002. Since then, our team has grown to include some of the most talented veterinarians in Georgia. Our technicians, kennel staff, client service coordinators and groomers are truly some of the most gifted, compassionate and experienced individuals in the veterinary field. With cutting-edge technology, Little River Animal Hospital provides the best in medical, dental, surgical, nutrition, and preventative services. We also offer full-service grooming and boarding services. Pets are a very special part of our families. They bring joy and laughter to everyone in their lives. We feel it is important for you to understand every aspect of your pet’s care, so we have always had an “open-door policy.” We invite you to observe any part of your pet’s visit to our hospital. From visiting with hospitalized patients to gowning in for your pet’s surgical or dental procedures, you will experience our overall commitment to excellence and care. We encourage you to stop by for a tour any time. Susanna Hofman brings her beloved dog, Chulo, to Little River Animal Hospital. “I love coming to Little River because it is a friendly environment,”
in the
limelight
she says. “Being allowed to be with my pet at all times puts me, and him, at ease. I feel comfortable leaving my pet in the staff’s care. I know they will take care of him.” Ensuring that the local community, our clients and their four-legged family members are healthy is fundamental to our motto: “Happy people, happy pets.” In addition to our locations in Milton and Peachtree Corners, Dr. Mize will open a third office, Big Creek Animal Hospital, in Cumming in the near future. Dr. Mize looks forward to serving you and your pets by providing quality veterinary care using cutting-edge technology, at three area locations — making “happy people, happy pets” more convenient than ever.
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Lunch Connection, March 2, 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The Metropolitan Club, 5895 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta Join GNFCC on the first Wednesday of each month for Lunch Connection. The event will include 30 minutes of interactive networking emphasizing the exchange of critical information about you and your organization, followed by lunch and a featured speaker offering valuable insight on local and national business. Contact Deborah Lanham for more details. 678-397-0567, Dlanham@GNFCC.com Pro Alliance, March 5, 12, 19 & 26, 7:30-9:00 a.m. GNFCC Office Join GNFCC every Wednesday for early morning networking! Enjoy a light breakfast and casual networking before breaking into small groups. This format allows you to share information about your business/work in a non-threatening environment, develop leads for potential new business and help others reach their goals.
Mayuri Indian Restaurant 2500 North Point Court Alpharetta
Rick Case Hyundai 11446 Alpharetta Hwy. Roswell
Stars and Strikes 8767 Roswell Road Sandy Springs
2014 Small Business Person of the Year Award GNFCC is now accepting nominations for the 2014 Small Business Person of the Year Award. Candidates will be considered based on principal ownership, growth and longevity, innovation, response to adversity, involvement in the community and membership in the GNFCC. Nominations will be accepted until June 13. Contact Kendra Plotkin for a nomination form. KPlotkin@GNFCC.com 44
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
Chamber 101, March 11, 10:00-11:00 a.m. GNFCC Office Are you new to GNFCC or new to a GNFCC member company? GNFCC’s monthly Chamber 101 sessions, held the second Tuesday of each month, will help you learn how to make the most of your GNFCC membership! Business After Hours, March 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Southeast Mortgage — One Northwinds Center 2475 Northwinds Parkway, Suite 530, Alpharetta Join GNFCC for Business After Hours, hosted by Southeast Mortgage. You won’t want to miss this great networking opportunity, featuring great food and drinks, great networking and great door prizes! 2014 North Fulton Business Expo, March 27-28 Windward Marriott, 5750 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta The 2014 North Fulton Business Expo is a two-day event providing businesses with opportunities to grow. This is a “must-attend” event for those who want to gain a competitive advantage. Showcase your company, distinguish it from the competition and generate new business! Plan to walk the show’s 90+ exhibits, network with more than 1,200 attendees and sample delicious food from North Fulton restaurants and caterers! Whether you plan to exhibit or attend, this is the place to be! Keynote reception (speaker TBA) will be held March 27, 3:00 p.m., at The Metropolitan Club (5895 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta). Come early on March 28 for the ribbon cutting at 9:15 a.m. Regular Expo hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., March 28. 41st Annual Chairman’s Gala, April 26, 6:00-11:00 p.m. The St. Regis Atlanta, 88 W. Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta The black tie-optional event, sponsored by Northside Hospital, will include a cocktail reception, dinner, an awards program and an after-party with live music. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact Debbie Ryals for more information. 678-397-0556, DRyals@GNFCC.com
Don’t Plant During the Danger Zone By Lisa Ethridge A recent unscientific personon-the street poll shows that most folks don’t know the plant hardiness zone for their area. Not knowing this important number can be dangerous. Thankfully, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture provides an interactive Plant Hardiness Zone Map on its website, USDA.gov. Based on the average annual minimum winter temperatures, the map helps gardeners to determine which plants are most likely to thrive in an area. The map is interesting, and the knowledge it provides can save
you money, time, and stress when it comes to gardening. Zone 7B is the magic number for us, so always look at the nursery plant labels carefully to make sure your purchase is hardy in 7B. At this time of year, it’s critical to look at frost dates. We are going to have some awesome weather throughout March and early April. Be patient. Do not plant your warm-season crops just yet. If you like “averages,” check out the chart at the National Climatic Data Center. It gives excellent frost data for spring and fall and the number of freeze-free days. During March and early April, play around with cool-season vegetable crops, which will not die with a light frost. Clean up and mulch garden beds. Do some pruning and deadhead any perennials from the previous season. Do not cut off the foliage of spring bulbs,
as its feeds the bulb so it can bloom the following year. Now is a good time to divide Irises and other early bloomers. One of my favorite activities on a warm March day is repotting house plants. Don’t take chances in this danger zone. Just because the spring annuals are bursting out everywhere, tempting you to plant in March, don’t do it. Such plants as squash, cucumbers, basil, tomatoes, peppers and eggplants can be killed by even a light frost. Don’t waste your time or money trying to plant early. It takes many sunny days to warm the soil for annuals to thrive and grow, so wait until late April to set out annuals and new perennials. Fortunately, we are blessed with a long growing season in Georgia.
Lisa Ethridge is a certified master gardener with North Fulton Master Gardeners, part of the UGA Cooperative Extension Service. 404-613-7670, NFMG.net
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Baby Teeth =
Practice Teeth By Amanda Kossick, D.M.D.
There is a common misconception that baby teeth are not valuable and if a cavity forms on one of them, then “it is not a big deal.” This is completely not true! Children’s primary, or baby teeth, are important for many reasons. First, you are training your children how to properly care for their teeth with brushing and flossing, as
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North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
well as limiting their sugar and simple carbohydrates intake. Second, if children have cavities in their baby teeth, then the bacterial count in their mouth is automatically higher — increasing their risk of cavities in their permanent teeth. Third, a large cavity that needs to be filled can be traumatizing for children, causing them to be fearful of dental visits in the future. Lastly, some very large cavities can cause damage to the erupting adult tooth developing behind it. Once we help children understand how important proper oral hygiene is, we will have a generation of people who are much more aware of their oral and overall health. Dentists can also help prevent cavities from forming. Regular dental visits starting at a young age will help children form a relationship with their dentists so that they feel comfortable; as a result, they will be more likely to continue regular dental visits into adulthood. Good oral hygiene should begin early. During cleaning appointments, dentists can
teach children how to properly brush and floss, along with applying a controlled amount of fluoride to their teeth to give their teeth some “muscles” to fight off the “cavity bugs.” The benefits of fluoride are very important in young children and in cavity prevention. Unfortunately, 28 percent of children ages 2-5 have already experienced tooth decay, and in 50 percent of children by age 11! That is an extremely high percentage, but we can take measures to reverse the trend. Parents can help guide children in caring for their teeth at home and in maintaining regular dental checkups to aid in cavity prevention. Please partner with dental healthcare providers to help our children have healthier mouths and lives.
Dr. Amanda Kossick is a dentist with DeMercy Dental in Roswell. 770-641-8010, DeMercyDental.com
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Advertiser
Index
Audio Intersection
37
Bloom Orthodontics
48
Camp Juliette Low
23
The Cigar Merchant
3
Cruise Planners
3, 39
DeMercy Dental
45
Dentistry at Milton The Framing Studio GNFCC Business Expo
Inside Front 32 Inside Back
H&H Electric & Security LLC
15
Healthy Smiles of Georgia
33
Kincaid Orthodontics
43
LGE Community Credit Union Little River Animal Hospital Marlow’s Tavern Mini Maid Mosquito Squad Night Vision Outdoor Lighting
7, 19 43 3 29 11, Back Cover 29
Northside Hospital-Forsyth
1
Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center
5
Northside Rheumatology Northside Total Joint Specialists
36 5
Northside Vascular Surgery
47
Pete’s Plumbing Inc.
27
PhotoJack.net 31 Play By Play Sports Broadcasting Camps Robinson & Miller Attorneys at Law Roswell, Inc
23 9 21
Roswell/Milton Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Cover, 24-26
48
North Fulton Family Life | MARCH 2014
Talk of the Table
48
Technical Resource Solutions LLC
46
Tryst Hair Salon & Boutique
31
POSTAL CUSTOMER
PRSRT STD ECRWSS US Postage
PAID
Stone Mountain, GA
Permit #1037