Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Contents
October 2018
VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 3
24-25 On the Cover:
Senator Albers
38-39
Cyberbullying
44-45
Special Effects Makeup
[24-25] [44-45]
[38-39] Follow Us >>>
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Family Life Publications
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
04
.......................... Perspective
06
............................. Calendar
13
.................... Mayor’s Minute
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.................... Community Life
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................... Senator Speaks
28
........................ Book Review
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....... Alpharetta Public Safety
32
........................ Artist Profile
36
......... Roswell Photo Society
43
.............. Community Partner
46
............................ Quotables
47
................... Ribbon Cuttings
familylifepublications
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Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Publisher’sPerspective
“Healing is the journey.
The destination is yourself.’’
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com ART Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com Mandy Marger Mandy@FamilyLifePublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114
770-213-7095
FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. North Fulton Family Life is a monthly community magazine with a total print count of over 30,000, direct mailing over 28,000 copies to Roswell, Alpharetta, and Milton. 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. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. North Fulton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
© 2018 All rights reserved.
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Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.
M AG A ZI
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Healing is learning to trust life again and love. Love can heal us all.
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc.
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October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. One in three women and one in seven men have been abused physically, mentally, and/or spiritually. Years of abuse can take its toll. It is quite possible someone you know today has been a victim or survivor of this dreadful social issue. Often, those who have not been in such a situation find it difficult to understand or empathize with those who have been or are currently in this predicament. When you discover their triggers, do what you can to help them avoid those situations. What we can do for each other is show kindness, compassion, and love. The more we learn to love each other, the more we can help heal this crazy world together.
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By embracing what we fear most, opening what was closed, softening what has hardened our heart to where it can beat gently again, only then can healing begin. Of course, those walls were built instinctively to defend us from our fears, may have taken years to build, and may take time to tear down. What can be done now is to swing our proverbial doors wide open, embrace the challenge to push past our own personal judgment, and get our emotions in check. Then, we can strengthen our resolve, gain a more accurate perception of what makes up our fear, pain, and wound, and get down to the business of alleviating the
problem rather than simply masking the symptoms.
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here are times in each of our lives when we feel like we’re stranded in a month of Mondays. The day-to-day dilemmas, drama, and dredge grip us at our ankles, pull on our hearts, and seem to make our mind wander off in any number of directions. Without the blessing of understanding friends who can see through our pride, point out that it’s okay to hurt, and offer their support, we may often find ourselves playing possum, retreating into our shell, or just building up those walls.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS State Senator John Albers, Mayor Mike Bodker, Cyndi Braun, Jim Cheatham, Michael Consoli, Lisa Ethridge, Samiah Garcia, Kevin Head, Amanda Howard, Ryland Johnson, Atiya King, Amanda Kossick, Pete Mitchell, Jim Morrow, Vishant Nath, Christy Noll, Debra Robinson, Grant C. Smith, Perry Wright
Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
The Health Benefits of Cupping By Grant C. Smith, D.P.T., C.S.C.S., Cert. D.N. [HealthyLife] Cupping has been used for centuries in the practice of Oriental medicine (or traditional Chinese medicine) to treat all types of diseases. However, it has recently gained popularity with professional athletes to treat muscle stiffness, soreness, and to help speed up recovery after practice or competition. In the medical community, cupping is more widely accepted as a therapeutic tool to treat many types of neuro-musculoskeletal impairments that cause pain. These impairments include muscle soreness, muscle spasms, decreased flexibility, and reduced blood flow. There are many mechanisms by which cupping works. First, the negative pressure inside the cups leads to an increase in blood flow in the tissues underneath the cups, increasing the number of
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
inflammatory factors that are responsible for healing and repair. The cups also create a stretching or tension through the fascia underneath. Thanks to plenty of research from Helene Langevin, we know that any tensile force created within the fascia leads to increased fibroblast activity. Fibroblasts are responsible for connective tissue healing, remodeling, and repair and can initiate the inflammatory response needed to stimulate healing. These changes also initiate the release of endogenous anandamide, which is a self-producing opioid that reduces pain. There are many different types of cupping including static cupping, dynamic cupping, cupping for neural tension, cupping for improved scar tissue mobility, and cupping with movement. Cupping can be very valuable in the
treatment of many conditions including headaches, low back pain, neck pain, compartment syndrome, plantar fasciitis, shoulder impingement, and many more. Cupping can also be combined with therapeutic massage for relaxation and improved mobility. Mild discoloration of the skin is normal, though usually not severe, and typically fades within a few hours to a few days.
Grant C. Smith is a doctor of physical therapy and the owner/founder of Advanced Manual Therapies, LLC, 1300 Abbey Court, Alpharetta. 404497-7717. AdvancedManualTherapies. com
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Calendar 6
Crabapple Knoll Vet Clinic Adoption Day — Several dogs and cats are in need of a forever home. Consider giving these loving pets a second chance at a new beginning, or just go by to meet and play with them for a little while! There will be food available, raffles, and couple of pet-related vendors. Staff and volunteers will also be there to bathe your pet and give them toenail trims at a reduced cost. 10:00am-4:00pm, Crabapple Knoll Vet Clinic, 12604 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta. 770-475-8272. Facebook. com/CrabappleKnoll
OCTOBER
4 & 11
Alpharetta Food Truck Alley — This gathering will have a variety of rotating food trucks, music, and fun children’s activities. 5:00-9:00pm, parking available at 37 Old Roswell Street, Milton Center on Milton Avenue, and City Hall parking deck at 2 Park Place, Alpharetta. 678-2976000. Alpharetta.Ga.us
5&6
Home By Dark Concert — Danny Mitchell and Cindy Morgan tell the stories behind their songs in this songwriters-in-theround concert event that often proves how just one song can change your life. 8:00pm, Chukkar Farm Polo Club, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, 770-314-3735. ChukkarFarmPoloClub.com
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Atlanta International Night Market — Enjoy delicious food from all over the world, exciting cultural performances, a fun and festive Kids Zone, a huge retail/shopping area, a cooking demonstration tent, a full bar, an educational International Village, and so much more! Friday and Saturday 5:00pm-12:00am and Sunday 12:009:00pm, North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 770-740-9273. ATLNightMarket.org
ONGOING Naturally Artistic Exhibit — Through November 30, visit outdoor art stations to enjoy some of CNC’s most picturesque locations, and create a bit of nature-inspired art. Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 12:00-5:00pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055, x238. ChattNatureCenter.org Better Together — On the second Monday of each month, the Better Together
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
5, 13, 20, & 27
Matilda’s 2018 Concerts — BJ Wilbanks and Donna Hopkins (10/5), Lonely Heartstring Band and Granville Automatic (10/13), Diane Durrett (10/20), Austin Coleman (10/27). 8:30-10:30pm, The Porch, 535 S. Main Street, Alpharetta. 770-754-7831. MatildasMusicVenue.com
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Story Pirates Greatest Hits — This is a sketch-comedy musical based on some of the Pirates’ favorite stories written by kids from around the country, plus a segment that’s entirely improvised according to suggestions from kids in the audience! 10:00am and 1:30pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-594-6232. RoswellGov.com/ CAC/Family
committee, composed of interested citizens from the City of Milton, meets to discuss ways to build a welcoming community in Milton where residents of all abilities can participate. All are welcome to become a part of this group, ranging from high school students to senior adults. The committee plans and arranges projects covering subjects of interest to the community. 6:30pm, Community Place at Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton. 678-242-2512. CityOfMiltonGa.us
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Crabapple Fest — This arts festival features over 100 juried local antique and art vendors, kids’ activities, local musicians, fantastic food, and more. Spend the day shopping for one-of-a-kind items, and enjoy all Milton has to offer! Parking is FREE. Shuttles will be available from Crabapple First Baptist Church, 12760 Birmingham Highway, Milton. 10:00am-5:00pm, 12650 Crabapple Road, downtown Milton. 678-242-2500. CityOfMiltonGa.us
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Roswell Riverside Sounds Presents Dustbowl Revival — The first Saturday of each month through October, bring your own picnic or purchase food at the food trucks on site, then sit back and enjoy some fantastic live music. 7:00-9:00pm, Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. RoswellRiversideSounds.com
Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce ProAlliance — Each Wednesday, enjoy early morning networking with fellow business leaders. 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. 7:30-9:00am, GNFCC Office, 11605 Haynes Bridge Road, Building 400, Suite 100, Alpharetta. 770993-8806. GNFCC.com
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
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Johns Creek Concert Series Presents the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra — Bring a picnic and your favorite non-alcoholic beverages, and enjoy this FREE concert. Contracted vendors will also provide a variety of catered food and beverages, including beer and wine. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome on the terraced lawn. Doors open at 6:00pm, concert begins at 7:00pm, Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. 678-512-3261. JohnsCreekGa.gov
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Wire & Wood Alpharetta Songwriters Festival — Listeners will learn the stories behind each song and may recognize some of the tunes that are played by their favorite musicians. 6:0010:00pm, 35 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. AwesomeAlpharetta.com
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Soaps in the South Fundraiser — Enjoy a private backyard BBQ/pool party as well as breakfast with some of the soap opera stars from General Hospital and The Young & the Restless, and much more! All proceeds from this event benefit Camp Dream. Please see the website, or call for specific event times and locations, Alpharetta/Milton. 770-634-0620. CampDream.org
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Polo for Parkinson’s Fundraiser — In addition to an exciting polo match, lunch will be provided by ‘Cue BBQ, and there will be an open bar (beer, wine & champagne), silent auction, raffles, champagne divot stomp, and a “Best Hat” contest. 1:00pm, Chukkar Farm Polo Club, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, Alpharetta. 770-314-3735. ChukkarFarmPoloClub.com
Yoga in the Park — The second Sunday of each month through November, all levels are welcome to attend this FREE sixty-minute class. End the session with a complimentary mimosa at Osteria Mattone. 10:00am, Heart of Roswell Park, 925 Canton Street, Roswell. 678878-3378. OsteriaMattone.com Genesis XXIV Juried Art Show - October 1-25 — See artwork from various genres from local artists. Tuesday-
Chopin Society of Atlanta Presents Kevin Kenner Piano Recital — Kenner is the winner of the 12th Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw, Poland, and winner of the Bronze Medal at the Tchaikovsky International Competition in Moscow. 6:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. ChopinAtlanta.org
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Alpharetta’s Night Out — Spend time with your neighborhood public safety men and women who serve Alpharetta. Enjoy live demos by
Friday 11:00am-5:00pm and Saturday 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244. VisitRoswellGa.com Alpharetta Farmers Market — Each Saturday in October, shop local at the Alpharetta Farmers Market, featuring food vendors including produce, grass-fed meats, cheese, baked goods, and more. 8:30am-1:00pm, 1 South Main, Alpharetta. AlpharettaFarmersMarket.com
the public safety departments, toucha-trucks, and experience interactive activities for kids and families. Avalon Boulevard will be closed until 9:00pm for this event. 5:00-8:00pm, Avalon, 2200 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta. 770-7651000. ExperienceAvalon.com
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Creative Mill Art Expo — Pieces displayed range from paintings, photography, drawings, pottery, turned wood, and other creations by over fifty staff members and local artists. FREE! 5:00-9:00pm, Randall-Paulson Architects, 85-A Mill Street, Suite 200, Roswell. 770650-7558. CreativeMillExpo.com
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Roswell’s Music on the Hill Outdoor Concert Series — Enjoy a FREE concert presented by the City of Roswell. This concert is Divas, which will feature cover performances of hits by Carole King, Linda Ronstadt, and Stevie Nicks. 7:00-9:00pm, Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell. 770-594-6271. RoswellGov.com
Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market - October 1-27— Each Saturday in October (except 10/13), this local farmers market is a one-stop shop for fresh produce and handmade goods. Held rain or shine, it features dog adoptions, yoga classes, chef demos, and baking contests. FREE! 8:00am-12:00pm, Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell. 404-492-9938. RoswellFAM.com
[continued on page 8] Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Alive in Roswell — This FREE, family-friendly festival features live bands, food trucks, kids’ games, face painting, balloons, etc. Enjoy participation from the many boutiques, small businesses, and restaurants surrounding the venues. 5:00-9:00pm, historic Canton Street, historic Roswell Square, and City Hall grounds. 678-591-2610. AliveInRoswell.com
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22nd Annual Historic Roswell 5K and 68th Annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Celebration — Youth Day has been a long-standing tradition that began in 1950 when a group of parents decided to sponsor a parade and a day of activities to honor Roswell’s youth. The day begins with the 5K race followed by a parade and farm days at Smith Plantation. Please visit the website, or call for specific locations of each event. The 5K begins at 9:45am, parade begins at 10:00am, and farm days is from 11:00am-3:00pm, Roswell. 770-6413727. RoswellGov.com
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Backstage and Other Stories: Confessions of a Broadway Star — This is Broadway singer and actress Terry Burrell’s newest solo concert, and in this delightful evening of memories and melodies, she will spill the beans and then some! This rare and candid performance will include special vocal arrangements from Terry’s illustrious career. Tickets are $30. 8:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-594-6232. RoswellCAC.com
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Southern Shorts Film Festival and Awards — This event is in the Top 100 Best Reviewed Film Festivals. It was made by filmmakers for filmmakers. 2:00pm, Aurora Cineplex, 5100 Commerce Parkway, Roswell. 678-310-7192. SouthernShortsAwards.com
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Fall Festival on the Farm — There will be crafts, animals, live music, a bounce house, smores, cider/cocoa, food trucks, a bake sale, and a pumpkin patch! Parking and free shuttles will be provided from Roswell
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
City Hall. 12:30-4:30pm, Martin’s Garden at Coleman Farms, 410 Coleman Road, Roswell. MartinsGardenACF.com
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A Novel Idea — Sometimes it is difficult to pigeonhole a book in a single category, so this month’s theme is “Cross Genres.” Meet authors whose book topics defy classification. Dinner, drinks, and dessert will be available, and door prizes will be given away. 6:308:30pm, Alpha Soda, 11760 Haynes Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-442-3102. Marsha.Cornelius@hotmail.com
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Harvest on the ‘Hooch — This is a farm-to-table garden party tasting event featuring top-notch restaurants, live bluegrass, and southern-style family fun. This event raises funds for the Unity Garden, which supplies more than five tons of fresh produce annually to North Fulton Community Charities’ (NFCC) food pantry. 1:004:00pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055. ChattNatureCenter.org
Alpharetta Public Safety Foundation K-9 5K Foot Chase — K-9 officers and their dogs will be running too! Participants are encouraged to run with their four-legged friends (dogs only). Open to all runners and walkers. Please, no aggressive dogs. 7:00-9:00pm, Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. 404-217-8800. RaceRoster.com
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Mother/Son Halloween Dance — Dancing, music, prizes, refreshments, pictures, and lots of fun! Costumes are encouraged but not required. All boys and their mothers, grandmothers, or mother figures are welcome. Each person entering the dance must be registered prior to the dance. You must register by October 12, and the cost is $12 for residents and $18 for non-residents. 7:00-9:00pm, Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com
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Keep Roswell Beautiful Great Annual Duck Race — Over 1,000 ducks will race down Big Creek. The first to cross the finish line will earn its sponsor $100. Second place earns $50. Big Creek is Roswell’s drinking water source and feeds into the Chattahoochee River. 12:00pm, Big Creek in Roswell. VCulbreth@ roswellgov.com. RoswellGov.com
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
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TGIF Concert Series Presents Atlanta Dance Party — Enjoy this ten-piece popular music band specializing in the dance hits of the 70s, 80s, 90s, plus selected new hits. 8:00-10:00pm, Chukkar Farm Polo Club, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, Alpharetta. 770-314-3735. ChukkarFarmPoloClub.com
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Halloween Hikes — This is a unique Halloween adventure that will take your child on a well-lit hike through the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about how they live. $12 per person, children under 2 years old are free. 7:00-9:45pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055 x236. ChattNatureCenter.org
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A Night at the Museum at Bulloch Hall — Tour the house by candlelight, and meet members of the Bulloch and Roosevelt families. Participate in a pumpkin race, a ghostly ring toss, goofy golf, and other spooky games. Enjoy hot dogs, chips, a drink, and roasted marshmallows by the fireplace while listening to Halloween songs and stories. Reservations are required. 6:30-9:00pm, Bulloch Hall Historic House Museum, 180 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell. 770-992-1731, x2. RoswellGov.com
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Harvest the Memories Festival at Amy’s Place — This annual fundraiser includes food vendors, artisans, live music, and fun for all! 12:00pm4:00pm, Amy’s Place, 14 Sloan Street, Roswell. CaringTogetherInHope.org
meet up for Carvin’ in Crabapple. Carving kits and painting supplies will be provided to create spooky or silly jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween, pumpkin bowling, storytelling, and more! 2:00-5:00pm, Broadwell Pavilion, 12615 Broadwell Road, Milton. 678-242-2533. CityOfMiltonGa.us
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Stroller 5K Run/Walk & Children’s Fun Run — This race benefits Project Infinity and schools of childhood education in the greater Atlanta and Greenville, SC regions. 9:00-11:00am, Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. InspiredPractices.org
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Free Family Reunion Workshop — A family reunion specialist will help attendees gain insight into the planning process and show how Alpharetta’s easy access, mild climate, exceptional facilities, and world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment make it the perfect location for fun-filled special events. Lunch will be provided. 10:00am1:00pm, Courtyard Alpharetta Windward, 12655 Deerfield Parkway, Alpharetta. 678-366-3360. AwesomeAlpharetta.com
20-21
Johns Creek Arts Festival — This beautiful and sprawling spot will come alive with 130 whimsical and fun artisans from around the country, who will be exhibiting their paintings, pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry, yard art, and many more goodies. There will also be live music, a Kidz Zone, and a food court. Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm and Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive (across from the Atlanta Athletic Club), Johns Creek. 770-4482166. SplashFestivals.com
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Restless in Resthaven — Experience the all-new historic street theater tour of Alpharetta and Resthaven Cemetery in October. You will encounter characters from Alpharetta’s past, as they stroll through downtown Alpharetta’s historic district and rise from their gravesites at Resthaven Cemetery. Tours begin at 5:00pm, Smokejack BBQ, 29 S. Main Street, Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. AtlantaTheatreToGo.com
21 Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
Milton First Responders Foundation’s 4th Annual Golf Tournament — The Milton First Responder Foundation will host the 4th Annual golf tournament to raise money for Milton Police and Fire. Funds raised through this event will provide grants for hardship, training, and equipment requests. This is their major fundraiser for the year. The golf tournament will have a 10:00am shotgun start, with a dinner ceremony followed by with a silent auction and raffle. 10:00am, Atlanta National Country Club, 350 Tournament Players Drive, Milton. MiltonFirstResponders.org/events.html
Carvin’ in Crabapple — BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin), and
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Trunk or Treat — Have the kids put on their costumes for this fun, FREE event! There will be fun for the whole family with candy and treats, activities for the kids, and a jump house. 6:00-8:00pm, Johns Creek Police Headquarters, 11445 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek. Debra.Kalish@ johnscreekga.gov. JohnsCreekGa.gov
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I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti — This is a one-woman comedy/drama about good food and bad boyfriends — with live cooking. Wednesday 7:30pm, Thursday and Friday 8:00pm, Saturday 4:00pm and 8:00pm, Sunday 2:30pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-641-1260. GET.org [continued on page 10] WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Halloween Fun House Children ages eight and under can come dressed in costumes or just as they are. Enjoy face painting, carnival games, inflatables, hayrides, and more. FREE! Concessions are available for purchase. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 4:30-7:30pm, East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell. 770-594-6134. RoswellGov.com
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Howl-oween Dog Agility Trial — Dogs and handlers must negotiate an obstacle course while racing against the clock. 8:00-4:30pm, Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11915 Wills Road, Alpharetta. 678297-6122. Facebook.com/ atlantaobedienceclub/
27, 11/3, & 11/10
Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook — Junie B. is on a mission to prove she’s not a nutball, avenge her black furry mittens, and maybe get a great new colorful pen, too. 11:00am, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-641-1260. GET.org
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The New Age of Bullying & What You Need to Know — Bullying is a serious topic and affects many of us. Learn the facts. Speak with the experts and community resource organizations. The panel moderator will be Mike Petchenik, WSB-TV, North Fulton County Bureau Chief. 2:00pm, Temple Beth Tikvah, 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell. Hadassah.org/Atlanta
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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Trick or Treat at Avalon — Visit the concierge to pick up your trick or treat map, and stop by participating retailers, who will be handing out candy and treats to children. 10:00am12:00pm, Avalon, 2200 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta. 770765-1000. ExperienceAvalon. com
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Take Back Drugs Event Johns Creek Police will be participating in the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. 10:00am2:00pm, Target parking lot, 5950 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek. 678-474-1607. JohnsCreekGa.gov
NOVEMBER
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Household Hazardous Waste Collection — The City of Roswell’s Public Works/Environmental Department will host this event. Please check the website for a list of acceptable items. 9:00am-12:00pm, Public Works/Transportation/ Fire Facilities, 1810 Hembree Road, Alpharetta. 770-641-3715. RoswellGov.com
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Holiday Home Tour — Presented by the Roswell Woman’s Club, five beautiful homes will be showcased and adorned with holiday
decor by local floral and home interior designers. Proceeds from this event will benefit education and charities in north Fulton. Time TBD, Roswell area homes. Info@RoswellWomansClub.org. HolidayHomeTour.org
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Alpharetta Women’s Half and 5K Race — Enjoy this inaugural event! 7:00-11:00am, Avalon Shopping Center, 2200 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta. AlpharettaWomensHalf.events
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
LIBRARY EVENTS AFPLS.org ALPHARETTA
NORTHEAST/SPRUILL OAKS
10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, 404-613-6735
9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek, 770-360-8820
MILTON
OCEE
855 Mayfield Road, Milton, 404-613-4402
5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, 770-360-8897
PROFESSIONAL SCREENWRITING CLASS Tuesdays, 5:30pm, Northeast/ Spruill Oaks Presented by veteran screenwriter, Glenn Williams, learn the craft in this four-week workshop, which will enable you to test to be a screenwriter for one of Atlanta’s movie makers! The workshop is limited to twenty participants, adults and teens 15+. Reservations are required. FRIENDS OF THE ALPHARETTA LIBRARY BOOK SALE October 6, 10:00am-4:00pm, Alpharetta Bargains galore! All proceeds support the library and library programs! AUTHOR VISIT AND BOOK LAUNCH CELEBRATION October 9, 6:00pm, Milton New York Times bestselling authors Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera will be starting their nationwide tour for their collaborative novel What If It’s Us at the Milton Library! Come celebrate and discuss their writing process, as they answer your questions. Books will be available for purchase and autographing. TEEN READ WEEK October 7-13, Library Hours, Alpharetta Visit the library all week for fun activities to celebrate Teen Read Week, and vote for the Teens’ Top Ten.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
ROSWELL (TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS) 115 Norcross Street, Roswell, 770-640-3075
EAST ROSWELL 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, 404-613-4050
OCEE AUTHORS SERIES - ROGER JOHNS October, 6:00-7:00pm, Ocee Georgia Author-of-the-Year (Mystery) Roger Johns comes to discuss his novel, River of Secrets.
STEM - GROSSOLOGY October 24, 3:30pm, East Roswell Kids have fun exploring gross science, as they make fake scabs and gross (but awesome) slime to take home. Reservations are required. This is for ages 6-12.
SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP October 13, 1:00pm, Milton Join Debbie Dorman, as she leads you in this conversational workshop answering vital questions about social security options. This is for ages 50+.
LEAF BOWL IN CLAY October 25, 3:00pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks This fall craft features making a clay bowl in the shape of a leaf with Out of the Box Art Studio. This is for ages 5-11. Registration is required.
SPARKLY PUMPKIN PAINTING October 18. 3:00pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks This Out of the Box program features fun, festive painting. Please dress to get messy! This is for ages 3-5. Registration is required. INFORMATION SELF-DEFENSE – HOW TO SPOT FAKE NEWS & CONDUCT RESEARCH ONLINE October 18. 6:00-7:00pm, Ocee Learn simple techniques to evaluate the quality of online information. Adults and students of all experience levels are welcome. ADULT ART CLASS - WELCOME FALL WALL HANGING October 20, 2:30pm, East Roswell Create a fall wall or door hanging that heralds the season. All levels welcome. This is presented by Out of the Box Art Studio. Reservations are required, adults only. STORY TIME WITH THE MILTON FIRE DEPARTMENT October 23, 10:30am, Milton Join the Milton Fire Department, as they read a few brief stories, and learn about fire safety around the house. Weather permitting, a fire truck or two will be in the parking lot for exploration and photo ops, so don’t forget to bring your phones and cameras.
HALLOWEEN ART WITH JOHNS CREEK ART CENTER October 27, 11:00am, Ocee Johns Creek Art will create a Halloween-themed craft. This is for ages 5+. Registration is required and is limited to twenty participants. STATE COLLEGE FINANCING WORKSHOP October 29, 5:30pm, Alpharetta Learn about the Hope and Zell Miller Scholarships and grants, the Georgia State Financial Application (GSFAPPS), award amounts as well as obtaining and maintaining state aid. A representative from the Georgia Student Finance Commission will facilitate. Registration is suggested, but walk-ins are welcome. Please email Michael.Salpeter@fultoncountyga.gov to register or for questions. HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION October 31, 3:30pm, East Roswell Trick or treat at the library on Halloween! Children will also listen to stories and create crafts in recognition of Halloween. Feel free to wear a costume!
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
Mayor’s Minute
Fa l l fo r s n h Jo C re e k By Mayor Mike Bodker
T
he fall is upon us, the leaves are changing, and at the risk of jinxing us all, the Georgia humidity should finally be behind us. In general, it’s a great time to be out and about and enjoying the community at one of our City events, or in one of our parks and on the trails.
These two of more than thirty events throughout the year would not be possible without your involvement, and more importantly, without your input. And to take this even further, most everything the City Council and staff moves forward in Johns Creek is done so with your input in mind.
One of our most popular events of note is the Police Department’s annual Trunk or Treat event, which takes place near the Police Department headquarters building in Technology Park on Wednesday, October 24 at 6:00pm. It’s a great opportunity for the kids to dress up and get a jump start on Halloween — especially for the little ones. This fun and safe event has grown so much that we have to continue to find larger parking lots each year. The kiddos have a chance to visit with Johns Creek’s finest, as they move from one police car to the next collecting candy.
While I recognize it is next to impossible to reach unanimous consensus on most ideas, we very much value input and engagement with the community. From recreation and parks and the annual budget, to road improvement projects and repaving, we rely on you to help shape the direction in which we move.
Another great event to mark on your calendar is the annual Fall Family Festival, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 27 in Newtown Park, beginning at 10:00am. This is another event growing in popularity each year with a wide variety of activities and vendor options from which to choose.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
More specifically, the approach we are taking with TSPLOST, the development of our sidewalk and trail connectivity plan, and the designs of each of the City’s five new parks are examples of the importance of community engagement. This is your community, and we hope you will continue to remain involved in shaping its direction and activity by participating in public meetings and community events, and by continuing to reach out to us whenever you have questions, concerns, or ideas.
While we will continue our proactive approach to reach out to you via the City’s various social media sites, electronic news letters, and email, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at any time on the City’s website: JohnsCreekGa.gov. Contact information for each department is available there. As always please also do not hesitate to reach out to me directly or to any council member via our respective email addresses, which can be found on the City’s website as well, or contact us simultaneously at ElectedOfficials@johnscreekga.gov. Let’s continue to work together to keep Johns Creek the premier residential community for which it has become known through ongoing dialogue and remaining active throughout the City. It is an honor to serve as your mayor, and I appreciate all that you do for our community. L
Mike Bodker is the mayor of Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Mike.Bodker@JohnsCreekGa.gov, JohnsCreekGa.gov.
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FC
Community
Fulton County School System Has Most National Merit Semifinalists in Georgia The Fulton County School System announced that 128 students are semifinalists in the 64th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program, the highest number of any school system in Georgia. These scholastically talented high school seniors now continue in the national competition for more than 7,500 Merit Scholarship awards, a value of approximately $31 million. Announced by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, this is the first round of competition for students seeking the distinction of being named a National Merit Scholar and receiving the scholarship money associated with it. Finalists will be named in February, and the scholarship winners will be announced beginning in April. The students were identified through exceptionally high scores on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which they took as juniors. As semifinalists, the students now must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist round. They must have a record of high academic performance, be endorsed and recommended by their school leadership, and earn SAT scores that confirm their earlier qualifying test performance. A detailed scholarship application, which includes the student’s self-descriptive essay and information about his or her participation and leadership in school and community activities, also must be submitted. Here are this year’s semifinalists from north Fulton high schools:
Alpharetta High School
Chattahoochee High School
Johns Creek High School
Richard Cho Rohit Das Sidhesh S. Desai Anushka Dheer Dheeraj Eidnani Kaushal Gokare Syed Haider Matthew Holmquist Jake Hopkins Marilyn Kessinger Manoj Niverthi Sean Rager Ida Vaghefi Adam Wang Arthur Yu Justin Zandstra
Abhimanyu Aurobindo Jennifer Bai James Bischoff Marylyn Chen Ridhi Choragudi Hannah Dominguez Morgan Giles Xuanming Gu Emily Guo Sung Mo Hong Vinnie K. Khanna Andrew Kreitner Vanisha Kudumuri Andy Luo Maanas Purushothapu Nithyashree Rajasekar Akash Rudra Tyler Shin Raj Srivastava Shyla Tolani Nithilan Vincent Ellie Wong Harrison Zhu
Rajath Bappanad Tyler C. Bierfreund Angie Chen Victoria Chen Hyun Choi Jason Gao William Goldstein Alexander B. Hayes Vatan Kapadia Hojung Kim Sarah C. McWhirter Katherine Rolader Andrew S. Shin Samuel Song Neha Subramaniyan Yuma Tanaka Rhea Vohra Julia Wei Lily Xie Jacob Young Sarah Zhang
Cambridge High School Austin T. Farr Christopher M. Fettes Caroline K. Redick Nikita Savant
Centennial High School Christine Pang
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
Milton High School Pranav Athimuthu Anna Bukowski Maxwell Guo Niraj Jinan Erin Joyce Soham Kar
Rithwik Koppaka Kayleigh Monahan Mira E. Mutnick David Schertz
Northview High School Safa Ahmed Kelsey Ahn Nathaniel Alemayehu Alina Baiju Amshumanth Chakragiri Mallika Chimpiri Sruti Chitluri Olivia L. Cho Brijal Chokshi Constantin Claassen Alexandra Dunn Annie Z. Feng Shashank S. Ganeshan Suraj S. Gubbala Aniruddha Gupta Lawrence L. He Mohammed F. Juneja Sonia Kalia Michele Kim Praneeth Kolichala Richard Lee Youngho Lim Nithya Mahakala Priun Nagru
Ayush S. Nene Evan Ouyang Nidhi Pai Michelle L. Pang Tiffany L. Pang Priya Rajeev Richa Sehgal Aayush Shah Madhusudhan Srinivasan Sylvia Tang Amy Tau Livia I. Tibuleac Varun R. Vangala Ankita D. Vayalapalli Kevin Wang Simon Yan Devansh Yerpude Grace Yu Alyssa Zhang Sheri Zhang Jonathan Zheng
Roswell High School Sameer Khan Lena Krone Grant Rosenblum Rachna Sahasrabudhe
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Bus Tracking App Comes to Fulton County Schools Fulton County Schools now offers a free app that allows parents to track their student’s school bus. “Here Comes The Bus” uses GPS technology to locate and track a school bus. Similar to ride-sharing apps, buses will show up as an icon on a map, and parents can follow its progress, as it moves toward the bus stop. The system also counts down the minutes before the bus arrives. “Our transportation fleet is committed to the safety and ontime delivery of students to their schools and homes,” said Sam Ham, executive director of the district’s Transportation Department. “The ‘Here Comes The Bus’ app eliminates the age-old question, ‘Where is my bus?’ It lets us be more customer-focused, so our families know when the bus is on its way and can follow its progress online.” To sign up, parents need their child’s student ID number, which is available from the school and is the same number used to view their student’s academic information online (Home Access Center) and school meal programs (MyPaymentsPlus). Fulton County Schools’ code, 87428, also is needed. After completing a brief user profile, the app is ready to use. Multiple students in the same household can be put on the same account. Students also can download the app to their cell phones or other personal devices, using their Launchpad ID to log in to the program. Parents and students can download the program through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or can visit HereComesTheBus.com to sign up. More information about the program, including FAQs and troubleshooting is posted to Tinyurl.com/HCTBapp on the Fulton County Schools website.
X Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Community Hospitality Highway Awarded Partnership Champion Award
The Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference, put on by the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus, recently awarded the Hospitality Highway tourism alliance as the winner of the Partnership Champion Award for the creation of the “Hospitality Highway Farm Trail” brochure. The Hospitality Highway consists of the seven communities that extend the length of Georgia 400 just north of downtown Atlanta to the North Georgia Mountains, linking the seven communities of Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Cumming-Forsyth, Dawsonville, and Dahlonega. This unique partnership has fostered the creation of Georgia’s only urban to rural trail featuring farm-totable dining, agritourism destinations, wineries, breweries, and farmers markets. The “Hospitality Highway Farm Trail” brochure allows each community to highlight their city’s offerings in those categories. The Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference Partnership Champion Award is given to an alliance that collaborates to increase visitation and tourism expenditures in Georgia.
Congratulations to our September contest winner, Chris Smith! 16
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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Roswell Fire Department Accepting CERT Applications for 2019 The Roswell Fire Department is accepting applications from residents who are interested in becoming part of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a volunteer group of trained community members who will be integrated into emergency response efforts in their area. The CERT program educates participants about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. This training will allow CERT members to assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available for help. CERT members will also be encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community. Training for the CERT program will consist of eight classes, most of which will be held at Roswell Fire Station 7 at 8025 Holcomb Bridge Road. Classes will take place on Thursdays, from 7:00-9:30pm, beginning February 21, 2019. Class size is limited to sixteen Roswell residents. Participants must be at least eighteen years of age. Residents who are interested in becoming a CERT member can find the application at RoswellGov.com/government/ departments/fire/Roswell-CERT-Application, or contact Lt. Ed Botts at EBotts@roswellgov.com. Please note only Roswell residents will be considered.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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17
X-RAY V ISION Isn’t Just for Superheroes! By Amanda Kossick, D.M.D. Radiation, in fact, is all around us. Any exposure at a dental office is a fraction compared to what you are exposed to throughout your everyday routine. For instance, a flight from New York to Los Angeles produces twice the amount of radiation you would experience from your four, bite-wing dental X-rays.
A recent hot topic in the [HealthyLife] media has been the damage X-rays do to our bodies. While a large amount of radiation exposure is not healthy, the technology of obtaining X-ray images has come a long way. In many dental offices, X-rays are taken digitally. What difference does this make to you as a patient? The amount of radiation exposure from a digital X-ray is 60 percent less than a traditional X-ray film, according to the American Dental Association.
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
Despite their small amount of radiation, X-rays are vital for your dentist in diagnosing any pathology that may be present. There is no way for a dentist to see inside of a tooth without the aid of an X-ray; without it, any pathology that occurs in the bone could go undiscovered. It is your dentist’s responsibility to follow the ALARA Principle (As Low as Reasonably Achievable), which stipulates that we dentists take the fewest number of X-rays as possible, while still obtaining critical information. Adhering to this principle while using digital film, following the
proper guidelines for exposure and using protective aprons/thyroid collars provides adequate protection and minimum exposure to patients. When prescribing X-rays, the following factors are considered: risk of cavities forming, previous dental work, symptoms that may be presenting, age, stage of tooth eruption, and type/ number of previous X-rays. Notice that insurance coverage is not in this mix of factors determining if X-rays are taken? Your oral healthcare professional has a responsibility to provide the best care for you — regardless of insurance coverage.
Dr. Amanda Kossick is a dentist with DeMercy Dental in Roswell. 770-641-8010, DeMercyDental.com
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Adorable Halloween Crafts By Christy Noll
Enjoy making these crafts with your kids to put everyone in the spirit of the [HomeLife] season! Make these at home or for a class Halloween party. These crafts require very few materials, many of which you may already have lying around at home.
Bat Craft
(supplies - toilet paper roll, glue, black construction paper, markers) • Fold in one end of the toilet paper roll to create the bat ears. • Glue in the fold to hold it down. • Cut the wings out of black construction paper, and glue to the sides of the toilet paper roll. • Draw on your favorite facial features with markers. (Source - MollyMooCrafts.com/ toilet-roll-bat-craft/)
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
Spider Suckers
(supplies - lollipops, twelve-inch black pipe cleaners, small googly eyes, scissors/wire cutters, glue) • Each spider has two pipe cleaners for legs. Cut your pipe cleaners in half so you have four legs on each side. • Align the four pipe cleaner pieces, and place a lollipop in the center. • Wrap one side of the pipe cleaner all the way around the lollipop stem, and pull tight. • Flip the sucker over, and separate the “legs.” • Bend the ends to create little feet, and position the legs. • Put a little glue onto the back of the googly eyes, and place them on your spider. (Source - IHeartNapTime.net/spider-suckers/)
Christy Noll is founder of AlpharettaMoms.org, a resource that connects North Fulton families with community organizations, programs, and events.
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19
Senator Speaks
BallotQuestions By Senator John Albers
W
e are a month away from the general election on November 6, 2018. Along with electing statewide offices like governor, lieutenant governor, and secretary of state, each of you will also be voting for your U.S. Congress representative, and Georgia Senate and House representatives. Additionally, there are five constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot along with referendum questions addressing Fulton County property tax assessments. I was proud to sponsor and support each of these important initiatives. During the 2018 Legislative Session, the legislature passed resolutions, proposing five constitutional amendment ballot questions that must be approved by the majority of Georgia’s citizens. The first measure addresses the revision of the current procedure used to establish forest land fair market value, which is currently based on each property’s 2008 value. Voters will have a chance to decide if the process can be changed, so that conservation property would be assessed at forty percent of its forest land conservation use value, and qualified timberland property would be assessed at forty percent of its fair market value for qualified timberland property. Additionally, if this amendment passes, commercial timberland would receive a new land designation. The second proposed constitutional amendment, if passed, would allow the state to establish the Georgia Business Court along with its processes. Marsy’s Law, also known as the crime victim’s equal rights legislation, is the third constitutional amendment. If approved, Marsy’s Law will provide victims with the right to request the court dates and release dates of
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
the criminal, to be made aware of any rulings in the case, and to be included or excluded from criminal proceedings. Each of these provisions will help protect the victims of crimes and give them a voice while also protecting them during and after any criminal proceedings. The fourth measure addresses school district(s) being able to call a referendum to establish a sales tax to be used only for education purposes. The school district(s) involved must have a majority of enrolled students within a county, and a majority of the voters within that county would have to vote to pass the proposed referendum. Lastly, the fifth measure addresses the creation of the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund. The purpose of this Fund would be to protect and preserve conservation land. Funding would be derived from up to eighty percent of revenue sales and use tax collected by the state on outdoor recreation equipment. In addition to these five measures, citizens living in cities in north Fulton – Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, and Roswell – will be able to vote
on whether or not to cap property tax assessment increases at three percent or the inflation rate, whichever is lower. During the first week of the 2018 session, I filed six bills proposing these referendums and worked with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass final versions of the bills, including SB 317, which provides a referendum for citizens living within the Fulton County School District to vote upon approval of new homestead exemptions from the school district property taxes for educational purposes. If the referendum passes, it would return your property value to the lowest amount of the year 2016, 2017, and 2018. This is a tremendous benefit to homeowners and is fully supported by the school board. Lastly, there is a final ballot question to increase the exemption for our senior citizens. If you have any questions, I’m always available to answer them and to help with any issues you may have. L Senator John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of North Fulton County. 404463-8055. SenatorAlbers.com, John. Albers@Senate.Ga.gov
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Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Paying Our Respects to Rural Cemeteries By Lisa Ethridge
[HomeLife] During the Industrial Revolution, individuals flocked to the cities where manufacturing jobs promised steady work and regular paydays. Inventions and innovations of the 18th and 19th centuries initiated a population shift from country to city. Real estate was at a premium, and poor living and working conditions prevailed; moreover, disease and death were common. Consequently, there was not enough space for the living or the dead in urban areas. Graveyard overcrowding became an urgent dilemma in municipal areas. Creativity and ingenuity in Boston gave birth to the rural cemetery, a paradigm shift that launched the landscape-design industry and became the prototype for public parks. Boston’s Mount Auburn Cemetery (1831) spanned rolling acres, not just a city block.
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
The manicured grounds included plenty of space for tombs, sepulchers, monuments, and other objet d’art. Gently curving paths wide enough for carriages wound through the contours of the graveyard garden that served as the final resting place for citizens, rich and poor. From the East, the rural cemetery movement spread to the Midwest, South, and West. It’s not hard to see why people began visiting cemeteries for contemplation and relaxation even if they didn’t have a loved one buried there. Urbanites sought the peace and solace of these countryside memorial parks after days of backbreaking work in factories. Eventually, city officials recognized the need for green space and recreational areas. The professions of landscaper, landscape architect, and landscape designer rose to meet the urban
needs for park space. Greenhouses and other plant-related businesses developed and flourished. Cemetery enthusiasts travel the world to experience the aura and environs of these special places. Perhaps the most well-known rural cemetery in Georgia is the Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah. However, there are others, such as Rose Hill in Macon, that are equally enchanting. The inspiration for this column, a book entitled, Grave Landscapes: The NineteenthCentury Rural Cemetery Movement by James R. Cothran and Erica Danylchak, is available online. Insightful information about our own Oakland Cemetery is available in a blog by Sara L. Van Beck entitled, “Oakland’s Early Landscapes: The Creation of a Rural Cemetery” on the cemetery’s website. Lisa Ethridge is a member of the award-winning Roswell Garden Club and 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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COVER STORY By Cyndi Braun
Senator Albers Serving Your Family Living a Life of Service
Results Matter
Helping Constituents
A fourth-generation firefighter, Albers was raised in a family that believed in serving others. His father, uncle, greatgrandfather, and great-great-grandfather were all firefighters.
When Albers first took office eight years ago, residents were struggling because of the recession.
Residents often call Albers asking for help with small business needs, veteran services, tax problems, insurance issues, and a variety of other issues.
“I have been serving for more than 25 years in the fire service. I am an active firefighter in Alpharetta, and I am honored to continue the legacy of rushing in when others rush out,” said Albers, who has twice assisted in a fire on his way home from a legislative session. Albers is an active member of his community. He participates in numerous boards of directors, Boy Scouts, Roswell United Methodist Church, Roswell Rotary, and many other organizations.
Nov.
6!
“Today, Georgia is the No. 1 place to do business, and our job rates are at record levels. We cut the state income tax. We fully funded education and have raised the graduation rate exponentially. We maintain an AAA bond rating (only nine states have this designation) with a balanced budget and no deficit,” said Albers.
“When you can break a log jam and fix things, that’s building treasures in heaven,” said Albers.“I enjoy serving others. If someone calls for assistance, we listen to their problem, find out where the solution is, then assure everyone is taken care of.”
“I will continue to work tirelessly.”
As part of the Senate leadership, Albers serves as the Chief Deputy Whip and chairman of the Atlanta-Fulton County Delegation. He is also chairman of the Public Safety Committee, and vice chairman of the Finance and Regulated Industry Committees. He is also a member of the powerful Rules and Appropriations Committees.
Albers considers it an honor to represent the people of his District, and he keeps that in mind when he’s in the Capitol.
He has authored and sponsored legislation to benefit students, teachers, parents, business owners, veterans, firefighters, police officers, senior citizens, and specials needs children and adults.
“I don’t look at it as my seat in the Senate. I look at it as the people’s seat. They chose me to sit in their place to represent them,” said Albers.“Serving in the Georgia Senate allows me to help people every day, which is a great joy.”
You can see what his constituents say here: 24
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
K
nown as “the hardest working legislator in Georgia,” Sen. John Albers is seeking reelection as senator for the 56th District, which includes north Fulton and southeast Cherokee County.
Since taking office in 2011, Albers has been working tirelessly to get results. “There may be smarter or more savvy people in this world, but nobody can outwork me,” said Albers. “I believe that whatever you do, you give it your time and attention, you do it with a sense of urgency, and you work hard at it.”
Background Albers earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville. He graduated from the Legislative Leadership Institute at the University of Georgia and the Cybersecurity Program at Harvard University. Albers and his wife Kari have been married for 25 years and raised their sons in Roswell. Will graduated from Roswell High School and the University of North Georgia and now works at the GBI. Ryan is a junior at Roswell High School. Both boys are Eagle Scouts.
Why Vote for Senator Albers? “I feel led to serve and believe there is much more work to be done. Serving in office is a tremendous sacrifice, but it is also a great privilege and honor,” said Albers.“I will continue to work tirelessly.” Whether it’s fighting fires, assisting a citizen with a need, volunteering at a community event, or passing important legislation, Albers is likely to be there, getting results for you.
Vote YES! A big issue arose last year when Fulton County home assessments increased by as much as 200%, which was especially hard for senior citizens and working families. Albers worked to stop the increases and restore the previous year’s values. He then got to work on fixing the problem long-term. “I worked with my colleagues to pass legislation solving this problem moving forward, and I need your help,” said Albers. “Please be sure to vote ‘YES’ on the three ballot questions this November to cap property taxes starting in 2019. This will also reset your home value to the lowest amount of the values during 2016, 2017, and 2018.” If the three questions pass, home values will never increase more than 3% or the Consumer Price Index (inflation rate), whichever is lower. This helps to protect families and homeowners. The third question will help senior citizens ages 65 and older receive a homestead exemption up to $50,000.
SenatorAlbers.com 404-463-8055
SenatorAlbers.com/what-people-say Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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25
It’s That Time Again…
inactivated “recombinant” flu viruses, so you cannot get sick from the modern-day flu shot.
By Jim Morrow, M.D.
[HealthyLife] The leaves are changing, and college football is back, but not everything about this time of year is pretty and enjoyable. This time of year, every year, we must get ready to deal with the upcoming flu season. According to the CDC website, flu-related hospitalizations range from 140,000 to 710,000, while flu-related deaths are estimated to range from 12,000 to 56,000. Many of these hospitalizations and deaths could have been avoided with a simple flu shot. Some people don’t get a flu shot because
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
of the possibility of getting the flu anyway. It is true that the flu vaccine might not protect you against every strain of the flu virus, but long hours of research go into determining the most likely strains to be prevalent in the U.S. every year. Some years the vaccine is more affective than others, but every year, your odds of not getting the flu are better with a flu shot. In years past, the flu vaccine was a weak version of the virus. A small percentage of people who got this vaccine got a mild form of the flu and were sick for a few days. Today, the vaccine is made from
Almost everyone over six months old should get a flu shot. A very small number of patients should not get a vaccine, so be sure to ask your physician about your needs. Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Don’t take chances where you shouldn’t. Flu season starts to pick up in late fall, and the vaccine takes about two weeks to take effect. For the best chance to avoid the flu, get your flu shot in the month of October, so you can avoid this dangerous illness.
Jim Morrow is a family medicine physician at Morrow Family Medicine. 12970 GA-9, Milton. 770-781-8004. MorrowFamMed.com
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27
Book Review BY RYLAND JOHNSON
Southern
writing has an affinity for the gothic .
Just as the blues has a tendency to explore the dark side of the human condition through murder ballads and tales of heartbreak and madness, Southern writing tends toward noir. There’s something in the humidity, in the dark, liquid atmosphere of the Southern imagination that fascinates on the horror lurking under the surface. Roger Johns’ debut novel, Dark River Rising, and his new work, River of Secrets, both deliver fast-paced, gritty crime drama with a heavy note of place. Johns’ Baton Rouge oozes mystery, and his heroine, Police Detective Wallace Hartman, is an ideal guide for navigating the city’s murky underbelly. In River of Secrets, Detective Hartman investigates the murder of a politician with problematic associations. The evidence leads Hartman in one direction, but her gut leads her in another. She’ll have to use all her wits to solve the case and protect the ones she loves. Roger Johns’ experience as a lawyer and professor deepens the world in which River of Secrets unfolds. Johns is a keen observer, and his attentiveness, along with his sense of tone, makes his Baton Rouge seem both dangerous and familiar. There is just enough realworld know-how in Johns’ prose to satisfy fans of police procedural fiction, and Johns’ rich cast of characters are varied and human, sympathetic and monstrous, and, most importantly, surprising in the crucial moments. A native of Louisiana, Roger Johns now lives in Georgia with his wife. He was named Georgia Author of the Year in the Mystery category for his first novel, Dark River Rising. The Ocee Library is honored to welcome Roger Johns for a reading and book signing, free and open to the public, on Wednesday, October 10 at 6:00pm.
Ryland Johnson is a librarian at Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-360-8897 AFPLS.org/ocee-branch6
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
By Jim Cheatham
W
hen most people think of October, two things come to mind: the fall season and Halloween. The drop in temperature seems to make neighborhoods come alive. Friday night high school football and playing in the leaves after spending all day raking them, for some reason, the evenings just seem more relaxed. However, this wonderful time of year comes with some very real dangers.
unit and patrol units are very responsive, targeting the areas of complaint, but they just keep coming in. Recently, there were so many vehicle accidents at one time that we ran out of available officers on the road. Some places do not call them accidents. They call them collisions because they could have been avoided — avoided if we would just slow down and be the defensive drivers that we were all taught to be.
We have become an extremely aggressive driving society. This summer, we focused on distracted driving with the enactment of the hands-free law, but if you spend any amount of time on the road, you see speeders as well as people running red lights and cutting each other off. Traffic issues are the number one complaint Alpharetta Public Safety receives day in and day out. Our traffic
Aggressive driving is speeding, running stop signs or lights, tailgating, failing to yield to another with the right of way, and weaving in and out of traffic/making excessive lane changes, and road rage is a whole other conversation. Do some research; this is a national problem. Some resources, like AAA, say eighty percent of us drive aggressively. The experts give a broad range of reasons
why: stress, traffic, long commutes, peers, parents, video games, movies, and the feeling of anonymity. That last one indicates that we don’t think we can be recognized, and we don’t recognize others as people. What can we do about it? It’s going to take a concerted effort on everyone’s part. Take a deep breath; allow for more time; don’t be rushed; visualize that every other driver and pedestrian around you is one of your loved ones; drive like everyone knows who you are. What happened to the days of enjoying the road, the days when people would just go for a drive? The only accessory you needed was a cool pair of sunglasses. Enjoy the fall; enjoy the leaves changing; enjoy football and friends. Enjoy the drive, and drive safely. Happy Halloween!
Jim Cheatham is the chief public affairs officer for the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety. Alpharetta.ga.us/PublicSafety
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Eight Days Immersed in
Ukraine’s Towns and Traditions By Michael Consoli
Cruise the Dnieper River to the [Lifestyle] Black Sea, an ancient and splendid trade route lined with rich cultural treasures, onion-domed churches, and rural folkways that recall the days of Vikings, Tatars, and Cossacks. Traveling by river, you will discover the true nature of these fascinating lands and the people who call them home. You will travel with ease, unpacking just once, and enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the banks, as you enjoy the exceptional ambiance of a river cruise with all the comforts of a fine hotel. Enjoy spacious staterooms and suites, an inviting restaurant, and beautiful public spaces on board an elegant ship that sets a new standard of river cruising excellence in the region. The Dnieper River tells a complex story that includes Greek, Mongol, Tatar, Ottoman, Cossack, Jewish, and Russian chapters. Historic cathedrals and monasteries, Soviet-era monuments, museums, and displays of legendary horsemanship, and music and dance enliven the river’s banks from Kiev to Odessa. On day one, explore Kiev, known as the
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“Mother of Cities,” with its rich heritage of Viking and Cossack tradition. Drive down the broad, tree-lined boulevard of Khreshchatyk Avenue, passing the great Monument of Independence and the Church of St. Andrew. Arrive at the stunning St. Sophia Cathedral, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a guided tour of this Byzantine wonder. Built in 1037, the cathedral is crowned with thirteen glimmering domes, adorned with mosaics of 177 different colors, and graced with enormous frescoes. Visit the Monastery of Caves, an extensive complex of domed churches and museums founded by ascetic monks in 1051. Its Ukrainian name, Pechersk, comes from the underground passages and chapels dug into the adjacent rocks centuries ago. Tour the main cathedral and the subterranean, low-ceiling labyrinth lined with the remains of mummified monks. On day four, you’ll enjoy a city tour of Kremenchug. With its riverside location along the trade route between the 16th-century duchy of Muscovy (today’s Moscow) and the Black Sea, this town has grown into a wealthy Cossack center.
Enter the home of a local family as they welcome you in for snacks, and gain a deeper understanding of the daily lives of Ukrainians on this enriching visit. You’ll discover Dnipro, with its undulating hills, and Zaporozhye, the ancestral home of the Cossacks. Disembark for a tour of Kherson, a small city founded in 1778 by order of Catherine the Great. On day eight, you’ll explore the beautiful architecture and sights of Odessa, an elegant city of terraced hills and landscaped parks. Extend your cruise with two nights in Vienna. Explore the city of Strauss, Freud, Mahler, Klimt, and so many other great fin de siècle thinkers, and experience the city that defined high culture for all of Europe. See the State Opera House and St. Stephan’s Cathedral, and enjoy local food at the Naschmarkt. L
Michael Consoli is a professional travel and cruise specialist and owner of Cruise Planners. 770-650-7667. PlanMyCruise.com
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Help Out Your Executor
show up in the mail. Hard copy statements sent by regular mail are becoming more and more rare. If your asset and account information is stored online, how will your executor find it?
[HomeLife] When putting together your estate plan, you need to choose an executor, the person responsible for administering your estate. Once you’ve decided on who that should be, there are things you can do to help out you executor.
You may not want to share information with your executor now, but you can still assemble it and let your executor know where to find it. Whether you use a password manager or have your own system for storing and updating passwords, your executor is going to need your user names and passwords. While it is important to keep such information secure, it is also important not to keep it so secure that the person you’ve chosen to carry out your estate plan can’t access the information needed to do their job.
By Debra Robinson
Prepare a list of assets including real estate, bank and investment accounts, insurance, and retirement accounts. Include account numbers and contact information. Years ago, if an executor couldn’t find account statements, it might take a month or two of waiting for the statements to
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Another list to prepare is people to contact. This includes your accountant, your attorney, and your insurance agent. It also includes your next of kin. To probate a will in Georgia, the executor has to provide the probate court with the names and addresses of your next of kin. If you don’t have a spouse, children, or grandchildren, that list could include living parents, siblings, or nieces and nephews if a sibling is deceased. Even if you haven’t had contact with someone on that list for years, the executor will still have to track that person down. Serving as an executor is a job that requires time and effort. You can help your executor out by making sure the information needed to do that job is easy to find.
Debra Robinson is an attorney in Johns Creek. 770-817-4999, DebraRobinsonLaw.com
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ArtistProfile BY ATIYA KING
On a day in which the typical fickle Georgia weather can’t decide what it wants to do, Woodstock-based singer-songwriter Jonathan Peyton opts to spend his afternoon in a cool, music-filled coffee shop in the heart of his hometown. It’s just the type of place one would expect to find a musician. His seriously slept-on, 9-track project gives listeners a glimpse into his heart, soul, and past. “I’m learning to heal/ When I lose your touch, I find my feel/But sometimes it’s hard to break a 25-year-old chain,” he sings gently on the first track entitled “Twenty-five,” which is on his 2016 album, Waters Below. Waters Below is an icedtea-sippin’, porch-sittin’, chillin’ on a beautiful day type of album. The effortless harmonies, modest arrangements, and Peyton’s soothing, yet subtly gruff voice is relaxing. That is until one truly listens to the lyrics. The album is deep, heavy, and sometimes dark. Peyton says the songs are very personal. His past has come with a few ups and downs. And, like many artists, those who really make listeners think, feel, question, and confront their own emotions, songwriting became his outlet.
parts of being in love. “It’s amazing how you see me/So different than I see me/Though my scars may show/Your patient heart still loves me so,” they sing. The passion is resounding, indicative of real love, understanding, and the willingness to see past flaws and all. Peyton’s newest EP, Where Do We Stand, was released in March. On the title track, Peyton sings, “I’ll wave my white flag/Only if you wave yours back.” He reveals that this body of work, much like Waters Below, is about emotional growth, but this time around, he’s tackled his past and is grateful for his present. Peyton may not be known by many, but he should be. The self-taught guitar player is a truly gifted and impressive singer with something to say and a voice worth being heard. Check him out on Amazon, iTunes, Bandcamp.com, and JonathanPeytonMusic.com.
Atiya King is a student in the MFA creative writing program at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt College Circle, Waleska. 770-720-5582. Reinhardt.edu/Graduate/MFA-CW/
Writing Waters Below was cathartic. In “Hey Mister,” he sings, “I hear what you’re saying, but you can’t come home/You burned that bridge so many years ago.” In “Bad Blood,” he croons, “There’s been bad blood under our skin/Don’t know where it started/This is where it ends.” These are easily two of the album’s most gut-wrenching songs. Both are about confronting difficulties, shedding the anger and pain many people unknowingly wear like tattoos, and coming out on the other side a better man. Peyton, who got his love of music from his dad, is a thirty-year-old father of three, who sings with his wife, Abigail. The song “Love Me So” was written about her. The addictive ditty reveals all the best
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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Top-Ranked Schools in North Fulton [AcademicLife] Seven Fulton County schools are ranked among the top twenty, and four are among the top ten on the list of Best Public High Schools in Georgia, according to the 2018 annual Niche rankings. Northview High School, Alpharetta High School, Johns Creek High School, Chattahoochee High School, Milton High School, Cambridge High School, and Roswell High School are all ranked in the top twenty; while Northview High School, Alpharetta High School, Johns Creek High School, and Chattahoochee High School are all listed among the state’s best ten schools.
Niche, the research and ranking site, compiles and analyzes data from multiple sources including parent and student surveys, the National Center for Education Statistics, and the U.S. census, to create comprehensive lists of the best places to live, work, and go to school.
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“That several of our schools rank among the nation’s best affirms the hard work of our teachers and staff and the commitment of our parents and the larger Fulton community,” said Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose. “We’re extremely proud of these schools and the outstanding work students are doing in classrooms across our school district.” Northview High School is ranked second in the list of Best Public High Schools in Georgia, and number 91 of the Best Public High Schools in the U.S. Northview High School gets high marks in academics, college prep, health and safety, diversity, and teachers. Reviews pulled from Niche surveys comment on Northview High School’s variety of academics and resources and the dedication of teachers and staff.
By Amanda Howard
School, Riverwood International Charter School, and North Springs High School. For the fifth annual Best School Rankings, Niche analyzed 83,542 public schools and 10,758 school districts, using data from the U.S. Department of Education as well as survey results from parents and student reviews.
Amanda Howard is the communications specialist of Fulton County Schools NLC, 450 Northridge Parkway, Sandy Springs. 404-5938982. FultonSchools.org
Also in the top 100 are Centennial High
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Fall Color Gittel Price
Marshmallow Night Van Redmond
Fall Leaf Gittel Price Covered Bridge Gittel Price
RPS is one of the largest photography clubs in metro Atlanta. Members meet at 6:30pm on the first Tuesday of each month at the Roswell Adult Recreation Center (830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell). Meetings are free and open to all. For more information, visit RoswellPhotoSociety.com, or call 404-933-5473.
Pumpkin Gittel Price 36
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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and current medication forms. It can be just as important to do so at the dentist office, so be sure to bring this information with you.
Things That Drive Your Dentist Crazy By Vishant Nath, D.M.D. Dentists love their patients; [HealthyLife] they really do! The dentist-patient relationship can be great, but there are some patient actions that can truly interfere with his/her dentist providing the best oral health care: Patients who do not accurately list current medications. When patients visit a medical doctor, they are usually meticulous about filling out health history
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Patients who put off dental treatment for too long. When dental treatment is prescribed, it is not an optional course of action. If you’re uncertain about a dental diagnosis, don’t ignore it — get a second opinion. Of course, your dentist would probably prefer you visit their office for treatment, but at the end of the day, they just want you to be healthy. Patients who do not brush/floss correctly. The rules are fairly basic: Floss your teeth each night, brush at least twice a day (and always right before bedtime), brush your teeth for two minutes (being sure to cover every tooth surface), and be sure to get a new toothbrush (or brush head for electric brushes) every three or four months. You should also always change your brush after you’ve been sick.
Patients who refuse X-rays. Your dentist uses X-rays to adequately assess the health of your teeth. Some cavities can be diagnosed without X-rays, but many cannot. If you disagree with the type/frequency of dental X-rays being prescribed by your dentist, be sure to have a discussion regarding those concerns. For all parties involved, the relationship you have with your dentist is an important one to keep healthy and happy. Your dentist hopes to only see you twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. But when more extensive appointments become necessary, you will appreciate having an open, trusting relationship with your dentist.
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com
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OCTOBER IS CYBERBULLYING AWARENESS MONTH
Here’s a Guide for Parents and Caregivers By Samiah Garcia
n this age of technology and social media, we are always connected. Most of us see this as a blessing to be able to connect with friends and family. But when the messages on social media are negative, degrading, and are there for all to see, there can be serious consequences.
I
Bullying can cause lasting effects, as feelings of shame and low self-esteem can follow students throughout their school years. According to StopBullying. org, “Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, text, and apps, or online in social media, forums, or games where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative,
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else, causing embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying crosses the line into unlawful or criminal behavior.”
Cyberbullying is relentless and can severely impact a person’s well-being. It can lead to anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide.
The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2017 that 14.9 percent of high school students were electronically bullied in the past twelve months. Historically, females have a higher rate of being bullied than males. The issue has led state governments to create legislation to address this growing concern. In 2015, Georgia’s definition of bullying was expanded through House Bill 131, or “The End of Cyberbullying Act,” and it includes acts of cyberbullying, which occurs through the use of electronic communications. Forty-nine states in the Unites States have antibullying legislation. Cyberbullying comes in various forms. It can be threatening to hurt someone or telling them to kill themselves, posting comments or rumors about someone that
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online behavior is most important. In a place where anonymous profiles and avatars exist, it is important for children to know what they can and cannot share online. The importance of reporting the event if they are being cyberbullied needs to be emphasized. Schools can be involved if the bullying is occurring at school. Local law enforcement agencies need to be involved if a serious threat is made. All social media sites have policies on reporting threats of harm or the posting of harmful photos and videos. In many cases, such sites can be shut down to prevent further damage.
Signs that a student may be a victim of cyberbullying include marked increase or decrease in use of electronic devices, emotional response during and after use of an electronic device, deactivating social media accounts, changes in mood and behavior, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, withdrawal, school avoidance, decline in grades, change in appetite, and avoiding discussion about online activity.
If cyberbullying is suspected, monitor, discuss, document, and report the behavior. Keeping children safe online requires parents to be vigilant and knowledgeable of the possible dangers of the cyberworld. If adequate steps are taken, cyberbullying can be conquered.
Signs that a child is the bully or taking part in bullying can overlap with the signs of being bullied. These include increased use of electronic devices, separation from family, hiding devices when near others, laughing excessively when looking at a device but not sharing the reason for laughter, increased concern about popularity, callous attitude about other students, and use of multiple online accounts or use of an account that does not belong to them. It is critical that parents and caregivers monitor their children’s online activities and limit the use of such devices. The rules and limitations need to be age appropriate. But the most important thing is to give the child a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where they know that they will be supported and loved unconditionally. In such an environment, a conversation can occur that will let a parent know that cyberbullying is taking place, and then steps can be taken to stop it. First, teaching students about responsible Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
SOCIA
are hurtful or embarrassing, or posting a mean video about someone. It can also be creating a hurtful page or post about someone, telling a group of people online not to be friends with someone, sharing secrets about someone to a group without permission, sharing photos, that are compromising in nature with a group or starting a rumor that is cruel and unkind. The reasons behind these actions can be varied and can be the same reasons face-to-face bullying occurs. Cyberbullying is relentless and can severely impact a person’s well-being. It can lead to anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide.
L
MEDIA
TAKE A BREAK
But the most important thing is to give the child a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where they know that they will be supported and loved unconditionally. To get more information on cyberbullying, please visit ADL.org, StopBullying.gov, and Cyberbullying.org.
Samiah Garcia is the coordinator for school counseling for the Fulton County School District. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Building Friendships Through Music By Perry Wright, L.P.M.T., M.T.-B.C. Every growing teen is [HealthyLife] faced with the same challenge: making friends. However, despite the growing number of social media platforms, many find it hard to build meaningful and deep friendships. For teens with differing levels of abilities and needs, making friends and building social skills can come with increased obstacles. When we think about basic human needs, we often neglect to remember our basic social needs, which include, “to love and be loved, to matter or feel validated, to make useful contributions to society, and to feel that one’s life has some purpose and meaning other than just surviving� (Schneck 2015).
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
These are criteria that require give and take, physical space, and time to build. Music therapists use music groups to provide the space for adolescents with varying special needs and abilities to meet their desire for lasting friendships. Learning to play music with others is a rewarding labor of love. One must develop a keen ear for listening and responding to others, a discipline of personal practice, and the confidence to express creative impulses to others. When these skills are built in a group, the result is the satisfaction of creating something unique and beautiful with peers. When a musical product is created, a greater level of trust, reciprocal communication, and personal responsibility to others is achieved. However, the benefits of a music therapy group do not end when the song is over. Music therapists work with members of the group to extend these skills to everyday social situations.
Social goals are addressed through evidence-based music therapy interventions including therapeutic singing, instrument play, lyric analysis, song writing, movement, and musical improvisation. These interventions are designed to facilitate learning of new cognitive skills, increased creativity, increased listening and attention skills, and increased interpersonal skills. Through music groups, music therapists provide a space where lasting relationships can be made and social needs can be met. Source - Schneck, D.J. (2015) Basic Anatomy and Physiology for the Music Therapist. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Perry Wright is a L.P.M.T., M.T.-B.C. at In Harmony Pediatric Therapy. 770-345-2804. InHarmonyPediatricTherapy.com
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Real Communion By Kevin Head, Ph.D. [InGoodFaith] I recently attended a meeting with a group of pastors, and one of the topics we discussed was what God and the church have to offer the world. The group seemed to focus on the related concepts of community and communion. Some of the greatest blessings we have as Christians are our shared relationships — relationships with each other and with God. And one of the most significant experiences in our lives that combines these incredible blessings is Communion (or the Lord’s Supper/
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Eucharist, depending on your faith tradition). As I think back to meaningful spiritual experiences in my life, I find that often those experiences were connected to times of relationship, community, and Communion. As a teenager on mission trips, our group always concluded the week with Communion. When a discipleship group I led came to an end, we also shared Communion. On an annual retreat with church leaders, we concluded our time together with Communion. Something powerful and deep, beyond human understanding, often happens when we break bread and share the cup with other Christians. The story is told of a German pastor who was thrown into a concentration camp, living there for three years in solitary confinement. One night, a uniformed guard came into his cell. The guard said, “Pastor,
I have been condemned to death. Will you hear the confession of my sins, and give me Communion?” Even though this guard had treated him cruelly in the past, the pastor agreed to listen to his confession. Then, the pastor took the stool that had been his seat for three years and placed on it a piece of leftover stale bread from his dinner. Beside it, the pastor placed a mug of water. The two men knelt on either side of the stool — each a sinner in the sight of a gracious God — and broke bread. They received forgiveness and peace. There are few things we do in this life that are more closely connected to an exact act performed and shared by Jesus than Communion. The first Sunday of October is World Communion Sunday. It would be a great day to seek that which is real.
Dr. Kevin Head is senior pastor of First Baptist Roswell. 770-587-6980, Kevin@fbroswell.org
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Community Partner
A
ll About Cats Rescue is a local nonprofit organization that strives to rescue cats and kittens from high-kill shelters. These cats are typically abandoned, abused, and/or homeless cats, or sometimes rescued from hoarding situations. This organization helps them find the purrfect forever home. All About Cats Rescue provides full vetting and medical care for its cats: spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, and rabies shots as required by law. Their volunteers work diligently to get cats ready for their new families. Welcoming a cat into your home can make a significant positive impact on your life. Your new family member can provide many health benefits, such as stress reduction and relief from symptoms of depression, all while delivering companionship and unconditional love. Cats can certainly keep your family entertained for hours, and they say that laughter is the best medicine. In return, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you gave a formerly homeless cat their furrever home, as
Georgia animal euthanasia rates are among the highest in the country. Metro Atlanta euthanizes over 300,000 cats per year. If you have been thinking about introducing a rescue cat into your life, you will be in great company, as over 51 percent of Americans have cats in their home. Cats are amazingly easy to care for because they do not require daily outdoor walks like our canine friends. All About Cats wants to be your first choice when you decide to adopt a new feline family member. Each weekend, adoption events are held inside the PetSmart store located at 625 W. Crossville Road in Roswell from 1:00-6:00pm. All About Cats needs your help to continue providing care for these homeless felines. If you want to help liven up the soulful eyes of these cats and kittens, please consider the following: • Monetary donations • Fostering • Cleaning and socializing with cats inside the PetSmart store • Assisting with adoptions and special events • Participating in fundraising • Donating cat care items such as food, litter, cat toys, and towels All About Cats operates solely through your generous contributions, which go directly to the care and well-being of their cats. Donations can be made online through their website or in the cat room inside the Roswell PetSmart.
For more info on how you can donate or volunteer, please contact Kristy at KGrieco@bellsouth.net, or visit AllAboutCatsRescue.org.
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By Pete Mitchell When I visited Blood Mansion (the country’s first nonprofit haunted house) back in the early seventies, I was frightened by the setting, the people, and actors inside, but a visit backstage opened a door for me. I eventually became involved in this new style of Halloween entertainment and gained insight into production.
After doing makeup, acting, and producing rooms for Blood Mansion, I worked at Kennestone Hospital and decided to become an emergency medical technician (EMT). Though EMT training teaches students what to do on the scene of an accident, illness, or crime, it doesn’t fully prepare them for the visual trauma and life and death experiences they will see. It seemed as though more could be done to help prepare students for those experiences, which spurned the idea of melding makeup artistry with medical training to help better prepare medics, firefighters, doctors, and nurses for the things they might encounter in their career. I got my first basic makeup at Eddie’s Trick Shop in Marietta and started experimenting
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North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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with the different types adhesives and colors. At that time, the makeup/effects options were very minimal. Most of the effects makeup artists of that era got their inspiration for trauma looks from the Vietnam War. Some of the Vietnam photos and news footage were very gory, but they did not resemble what I and other medical professionals had experienced in the trauma situations we encountered in our line of work. So, the plan was to recreate a more realistic representation of the injuries that medical professionals would treat on actors and other medical professional volunteers to help eliminate some of the shock value from real life situations that may arise. Now, EMTs, firefighters, police, and hospital staff would see “victims/ patients” in front of them who would be screaming, bleeding, and frantically demanding treatment.
To create these looks, the godfather of modern effects makeup, Dick Smith, had a book that listed the basics of threedimensional makeup applications. They were time consuming, so I worked with easy-to-use latex and other adhesives to craft realistic lacerations that could be stitched when needed.
Red, oozing blood was not realistic in many situations, so I experimented with different types of chemical compounds and colors to create blood that looked like either arterial or venous blood, and the color of each could be corrected for film or video purposes.
Bruises are easy to create when using colors made by Joe Blasco Cosmetics of Hollywood and Orlando. Deep (blood) red and deep (Tahiti) blue cosmetics make very realistic contusions when artistically applied. As I perfected the art of trauma makeup application, friends began to hire me to assist with basic and advanced life support classes for doctors and nurses, and then hospitals and EMT certification schools began to hire me to apply makeup for their training purposes as well. The special effects makeup was applied well enough Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
that it would not fall off — it stayed on until it was deliberately removed when the training session/filming was complete.
After using special effects makeup to assist with medical training, I went on to create one-on-one experiences along with fullscale disasters with special exploding fire effects, and the Disaster FX Team was born. The Disaster FX team went on to create looks for many Halloween events such as the Limelight, WQXI-94, Confetti’s, and Halloweekends at Six Flags. Due to the popularity of Halloweekends, a new haunted house was constructed in Six Flags, which drew a larger crowd than the park had ever experienced. With the disaster training and medical expertise that the Disaster FX Team had acquired, we knew how to build and create a safe yet terrifying attraction. When word spread about the success of this attraction, other theme parks across the country began to produce what is now known as Fright Fest, and the Disaster FX Team branched off to include the Creature Crew for Halloween.
Over the years, my colleagues and I have done makeup on movies and television shows along with working on hundreds of educational videos for emergency response teams. We were also awarded an Emmy for an application we call “Special Trauma.”
The important thing is to practice. Experiment with different supplies that are safe and are made for the human body. Makeup can be fun for the entire family, and it is much safer than covering your face and eyes with a Halloween mask. It also looks more realistic. So, research different characters, and use your supplies to try and reproduce them on your favorite ghoul or goblin this Halloween!
Be sure to try out these pro ducts BEFORE your event. Practice differ ent applications, and get to know how each product works. Then, have fun creating you r own creature. • Mehron 5 color pallet • Clown white • Three makeup brushes - Wide tip - Medium tip - Small tip • Baby wipes • Makeup sponges • Liquid latex • Crepe hair (use for we rewolves, eyebrows, beards, etc.) • Blood! Experiment with making your own, or get it in a jar. There are many different types out the re, so choose the best for whatever injury you want to create. Pete Mitchell is an EMT and owner of JPM Productions, Inc., 58 2 Etowah Drive N.E . Marietta, Georgia. JPM Productions.com
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Quotables
“These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb.” Najwa Zebian
“Gratitude isn’t something you have so that you don’t appear ungrateful to others. It’s a way of making sure the story you tell yourself about your life is true.” John Mayer
“If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to help build theirs.” Florence Nightingale
“We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.” Max Depree “Stop looking for happiness in the same place you lost it.” Unknown
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“Intelligent people tend to have less friends than the average person. The smarter you are, the more selective you become.” Nikola Tesla
“If you enjoy the fragrance of a rose, you must accept the thorns which it bears.” Isaac Hayes
“If a thing is done well, no one will ask how long it took to do it, but only who did it.” John Taylor
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Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings
11605 Haynes Bridge Road, Suite 100, Alpharetta, 770-993-8806 GNFCC.com
Carmichael Consulting Solutions, LLC
VAS Kouzina
11660 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 100, Roswell 678-719-9671 Consulting
942 Alpharetta Street, Roswell 678-587-5888 Greek Restaurant
HIPnation Johns Creek
Eclipse New Age Books & Gifts
10680 Medlock Bridge Road, Suite 205, Johns Creek 678-796-6945 Healthcare
408 S. Atlanta Street, #150, Roswell 678-682-8624 Metaphysical Supply Store
Pedego Electric Bikes Alpharetta
Chippers Club
6480 North Point Parkway, Suite 1100B, Alpharetta 404-281-0264 Electric Bike Sales & Rental
659 Atlanta Street, Roswell 470-282-1892 Restaurant
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Advertiser Index Advanced Manual Therapies Albers for Senate
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Danco Property Care
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28
In Harmony Pediatric Therapy
26
Internal Medicine Practice of Northside
Inside Back
Internal Medicine Specialists of Roswell
12
LGE Community Credit Union
21
Law Offices of J. Christopher Miller, P.C.
15
Martha B. Boone, M.D.
Inside Front
Milton Literary Festival
12
Morrow Family Medicine
19
Newtown Medical
3
North Atlanta Vascular Clinic & Vein Center North Atlanta Women’s Care Northside Heart
23 22 Inside Front
Northside Hospital
1
Northside Vascular Surgery
3
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
31
and Dentistry at Milton Pete’s Plumbing, Inc.
40
Ram’s Home Services Roswell Cultural Arts Center
17
Shanghai Acupuncture Clinic
28
St George Village
27
Tracy Morton - Harry Norman Realtors
37
Vickery Creek Capital Management
41
Village Podiatry Centers
27
WellStar
48
North Fulton Family Life | OCTOBER 2018
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