Contents
February 2019
VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 7
24-25 On the Cover:
Outback Deck
28-29
Credit Advice Tips for High Scores
40-41
Start With the Heart for Better Health
[24-25]
[40-41] [28-29] Follow Us >>>
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Family Life Publications
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
04
.......................... Perspective
08
............................. Calendar
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................... Senator Speaks
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.................... Community Life
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........................ Book Review
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.............. Community Partner
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................... Mayor’s Minute
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....................... Public Safety
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........................ Artist Profile
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........................... Quotables
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......... Roswell Photo Society
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................... Ribbon Cuttings
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Publisher’s Perspective PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
I’ve been inspired by several new books that I received over the holidays (yes, as you may imagine, publishers get books for gifts). This year I got some real gems. They all seem to have a similar course/theme that really got me thinking. Great books tend to do that.
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS State Senator John Albers, Dr. Hunt Anderson Jim Cheatham, Cindy Comstock, Michael Consoli, Lisa Ethridge, Kevin Head, Amanda Howard, Ryland Johnson, Amanda Kossick, Mayor Joe Lockwood, Jennie Mayes, Jim Morrow, Vishant Nath, Christy Noll, Debra Robinson, Mike Simmons, Geoff Smith, Grant C. Smith
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 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. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. © 2019 All rights reserved.
AS
TH
I’m not a scholar on happiness. However, I do practice it as much as possible. Since starting this publication,
Wishing you a path filled with better problems and an easier route to much happiness in your future.
SALES ASSISTANT Alexander DuLong
IS
E R EC Y C LE
In past perspectives, I’ve written about joy, overcoming challenges, helping others, living life to the fullest, accepting God’s blessings, and facing problems and challenges. These things make us feel fulfilled and genuinely happy. Of course, we all want to look, feel, and be happy! But what is it? What IS happy?
We must do things; even doing nothing is something that solves the problem of being overworked, right? As the band Rush’s lyric says, “If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.” To be happy, we must choose to solve our problems. Problems and challenges, therefore, are the catalyst to happiness. When we think about it that way, happiness is an easier choice to make.
SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com
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With January behind us and February bright on the winter horizon as a fresh clean month before us, I wonder what is ahead. What would happen if the next month, and maybe the rest of the year, was completely problem free? No deadlines, no dirty laundry, no friends in need, and no dog hair to sweep from the baseboards sounds nice on the surface. But what would we do with all the extra time? A-ha! See what just happened? A new problem for me to solve.
I’ve been happier than ever and, conversely, I’ve also had more problems. This has gotten me thinking that maybe happiness is an action noun. The idea that happiness comes from solving problems is not too hard of a concept to grasp. Some people clean to be happy — dirty problem solved. Others glean happiness from exercise and physical exertion, solving an unhealthy sedentary problem. Camping to get away from it all. Dieting because we feel fat. Teaching to see others learn. It’s not so much what we do, but why we do it.
Mandy Marger Mandy@FamilyLifePublications.com
M AG A ZI
N
“T
he real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection.” – Thomas Paine
ART Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com
PLE
The Problems With Happiness
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cyndi Braun
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African American Gardens in the Rural South By Lisa Ethridge
[HomeLife] Coffee table books about perfectly designed and meticulously manicured European-style gardens abound. Those showplaces have been studied, photographed, and documented for centuries. Recently, horticulturalists have begun to study and write about “vernacular” gardening or, simply put, the gardens of ordinary people. It turns out there is a lot to say about the regional and cultural influences on the design and elements of domestic gardens. Several books have been written on the subject of African American gardens in the rural South. These ethereal spots reflect not only the symbolism and spirituality of the community and culture but also the traditions of African-American slaves and their West African heritage. The gardens are interesting historically and aesthetically.
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The layout of the African American rural garden is utilitarian. Bushes partition the yard, which often has a swept-dirt clearing used for play or entertaining. The garden includes work areas for preparing food, hanging clothes, doing handicrafts, or chopping and stacking wood for the kitchen. The art in these gardens is striking. Nothing is wasted. Objects are recycled, re-purposed, or upcycled to create frugal and creative garden art. Gardeners use pots, pans, bins, or barrels for plants. Vegetables are mixed with flowering annuals. This garden art form requires a profusion of plants in a variety of colors. The beds and walkways are lined with broken plates called “opportunistic edging.” Potted plants line the steps to the porch as a sign of welcome. A bottle tree, which is said to have the power to capture evil
spirits, is a common sight. Found objects such as bricks, tires, and even washing machines are used for plant stands and other folk art displays. The yards are joyful, natural, spiritual, and welcoming. The tradition of African American gardening continues. You never know when or where you might spot one as you travel around the South. For an interesting travel experience, you might want to visit the Anne Spencer House in Virginia. Anne Spencer was a poet, a Civil Rights activist, a teacher, librarian, wife and mother, and a gardener.
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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Appreciating School
Media Centers By Amanda Howard
[AcademicLife] February is National Library Lovers Month, and while school libraries have evolved over the years, school media centers still give students a place to read, congregate, and study. Media centers don’t always have the collection sizes of school libraries of yore. One Fulton County high school has gone from 35,000 to 8,000 books in six years due to increased online reading. However, they still report a healthy circulation. The only noticeable drop is a lower interest in periodicals. Middle school media centers have a larger collection of physical books, but they skew more toward fiction. For nonfiction, students prefer to do their research using online databases. When reading for pleasure, students show a preference for print. Six Fulton County middle schools will undergo renovations this summer, and things may shift, but exciting things are planned for the expansions. The new centers will add more technology,
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
collaborative spaces, and flexible seating areas similar to the recent media center renovations in local high schools. Students in elementary school also prefer physical books they can hold and take home, and circulation and collection numbers have actually increased. Malena Bisanti, media and educational technology instructor at River Eves Elementary School and their Professional of the Year, noted that River Eves Elementary “continues to add new books and e-books to the collection each year to support the curriculum as well as students’ personal interests.” Elementary students also enjoy using the media center’s makerspace for creating, imagining, and tinkering. While school media centers still function as libraries, they also offer many additional benefits. With district-issued devices, all students have access to e-books and audio books. Students can access SPLOST-funded Student Chromebook Hardware Support Kiosks, green-screen rooms to shoot videos, makerspaces, gathering spaces, and areas for displays or activities. School libraries have certainly evolved, and media centers continue to grow and adapt to students’ needs, but the need for and love of books and libraries remains.
Amanda Howard is the communications specialist of Fulton County Schools NLC, 450 Northridge Parkway, Sandy Springs. 404-593-8982. FultonSchools.org
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Calendar FEBRUARY
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History of African Americans and the Southern Rural Garden — Presented by the Roswell Historical Society, enjoy learning about this fascinating topic. 7:00pm, Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell. 770992-1665. RoswellHistoricalSociety.org
jazz. Cirquescape is the story of a young girl’s dream of being in the circus. Tickets are $12 online and $18 at the door. 1:00pm and 6:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-641-3987. TutuTix.com/client/ roswelldancestarz.
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Roswell Dance Starz Presents Cirquescape — Join Roswell’s resident dance company for their winter concert. Talented dancers ages 7-18 will perform hip hop, modern/ contemporary, character, ballet, tap, and
19th Annual Lionheart Auction — “Party with Heart” at this festive event featuring live entertainment and a robust auction. Dance the night away, bid in a live and silent auction, and support a worthy cause. With 400 attendees expected, the event will raise critical funds for The Lionheart School, which provides developmentally appropriate programs for children who need a specialized learning environment, therapeutic interventions, supported social interactions, and strategies to accommodate their individual
profile. 7:00-11:00pm, The Hotel at Avalon & Alpharetta Conference Center, 9000 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta. 470-5881075. TheLionheartSchool.com/auction/
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Whisperings Solo Piano All-Star Concert — Dozens of artists featured on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio will be in attendance, and guests will have the opportunity to meet them after the show. At the end of the concert, the winner of the Whisperings Solo Piano Album of the Year will be announced.
ONGOING Annual Roswell Fine Arts Alliance Invitational Juried Art Show, People, Places and Thingamabobs — Through March 31, RFAA invites members of several sister art organizations as well as its own fine artists to compete for ribbons and cash awards. This year’s jurist is Shane McDonald, a nationally known artist, whose works are displayed in private and public collections. Entered works will include oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, mixed media, and collage. All original works will be available for purchase. Fridays 10:00am-1:00pm and Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm, The Gallery at Fouts Road, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell. 770-6413705. RFAA.org/shows.html
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
opportunity for walkers to ask one-onone questions with the participating physician. 10:00am, Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. WalkWithADoc.org Walk with a Doc — On the second Saturday of each month, the City of Johns Creek and Emory Johns Creek Hospital encourage residents to take a step toward better health with this walking program that brings doctors and patients together. Every walk will feature a different health topic, each selected to provide information and the
Better Together — On the second Thursday of each month, the Better Together 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
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
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Random Acts of Kindness Day — Sometimes, it’s the smallest act that makes the biggest impact. Something as simple as saying “please” or “thank you” can turn a day around, and make a life seem that much better. Random Acts of Kindness Day encourages you to get out there and be the light you want to see in the world.
Tickets start at $40. 2:005:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street. 770-594-6232. PianoAllstars.Eventbrite.com
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A Novel Idea — Meet up with local writers/authors to share excerpts from recent publications and discuss other writing-related topics. 6:30-9:00pm, The Peach & the Porkchop, 12040 Etris Road, D100, Roswell. Beth@BethHerm es.com
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar — Using the magic of black light and fanciful puppets, The Very Hungry Caterpillar follows the wonderful adventures of a very tiny and very hungry caterpillar, as he eats his way through an amazing variety of foods on his path to becoming a beautiful butterfly. 10:00am and 1:30pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-5946232. RoswellCAC.com
of interest to the community. 6:30pm, Community Place at Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton. 678-2422533. CityOfMiltonGa.us
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LIVE! in Roswell Presents Ranky Tanky — Ranky Tanky performs their interpretation of the timeless music of the Gullah culture, from playful game songs to heartbreaking spirituals and delicate lullabies, updated with gospel vocals, jazz trumpet solos, and an R&B rhythm section. Tickets are $30/$25 seniors, students, and military. 8:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770-594-6232. RoswellCAC.com
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Winter Bird Seed Fundraiser Orders — Just in time for the Great Backyard Bird Count, fill your feeders with premium birdseed and benefit the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Orders can be placed online or at the Nature Store. Don’t forget, CNC Members save 15 percent on all birdseed. Pick up orders February 15-17. Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 12:00-5:00 pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055. ChattNatureCenter.org
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. 770-993-8806. GNFCC.com
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Calendar [continued from page 9]
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17th Annual Prom-A-Palooza — Prepare for a magical dream prom! FREE prom dresses and accessories are provided for teen girls in foster homes, group homes, and grands raising grands/ relative care homes throughout the entire state of Georgia. This event is sponsored by Foster Care Support Foundation. 11:00am-2:00pm, Foster Care Support
Foundation Distribution Center, 115 Mansell Place, Roswell. 770-641-9591. FosterCares.org
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Young Adult Club Valentine Dance — This event is for club members, ages 18+. You may join Young Adult Club at the first meeting you attend. Members plan free monthly events. Yearly fees are $16 for residents and $24 for non-residents. 5:30-8:00pm, Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell. 770-641-3950. RoswellGov.com
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Midwinter Tapestry Concert — The newly formed Tapestry Women’s Choir, a part of The Johns Creek Chorale, represents lives and stories that are interwoven to form a choir that is rich in heart, spirit, mind, and soul. This first concert will explore exquisitely beautiful music written for the female voice. 5:00pm, Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek. 770-497-8215. TheJohnsCreekChorale.com
MARCH
28-3/17
Driving Miss Daisy — Enjoy this classic tale of an unlikely friendship set in 20th century Atlanta. Wednesday 7:30pm, Thursday-Saturday 8:00pm, Sunday 2:30pm, with additional 4:00pm shows on the second and third Saturday of the production, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770641-1260. GET.org
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Milton Mayor’s Run Presents Jog for a Cause — This race benefits the families of local pediatric cancer patients. Grab some friends or your running group, and join this fun, fast Peachtree qualifier. 7:30am, Freedom Park, 13200 Deerfield Parkway, Milton. 678-242-2533. JogForACause5K.com
ONGOING
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Roswell Roots 2019 — Celebrate Roswell’s African American history and culture throughout the month of February with a series of unique and fun events for everyone. This festival is one of the largest and most comprehensive celebrations in the state of Georgia. Share in Roswell’s diverse history while discovering more about African American heritage, art, food, and contributions. Various times and locations, Roswell. 770-641-3727. RoswellGov.com
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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Black Heritage: The Unsung Heroes of Roswell, GA Antebellum Times Through the Civil Rights Movement — FREE and on display in the lobby, this exhibit focuses on the story of the everyday heroes of the black community and their labors from the days of slavery and Reconstruction, through the trials of segregation, to their efforts to create a vital and influential community for future generations. Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell. 770594-6232. RoswellCAC.com
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Enchanted Woodland Trail, Featuring Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes — Fairies and gnomes have been busy building all new homes for this Enchanted Woodland Trail. Whimsical works line the trails. Slow down, as you search for the fairy houses made from tiny natural objects. Included with general admission, children $6, adults $10, seniors 65+ $7, students 13-18 $7, CNC members and kids 2 and under are free. Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 12:00-5:00 pm, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055. ChattNatureCenter.org
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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
AARP FOUNDATION FREE TAX PREPARATION Tuesdays, 11:00am-2:45pm, East Roswell Wednesdays, 3:00-8:00pm, Ocee Saturdays, 9:30am-4:00pm, Ocee Trained tax-aide volunteers will be on site to prepare taxes for free. The tax preparation is available for any age adult who requires assistance. Please bring all pertinent tax documents, including a copy of your previous year’s return, a photo I.D., and Social Security card. Direct deposit requires a copy of your check. Reservations are required. For more info, please visit AARP.org/taxaide. SETTING YOUR TEEN UP FOR SUCCESS February 6, 6:00pm, Milton Parents of tweens and teens join Alison Kelly of Kelly Counseling and Coaching for a free and informative presentation. Parents can guide their children to focus on changing their response to life’s challenges, and teens can become more productive when they develop the ability to focus clearly on goals, problem solving, and making adjustments without being ruled by stress, anxiety, or worry. VALENTINE’S DAY PRESCHOOL/ KINDERGARTEN ART PROGRAM February 7, 1:30pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks Enjoy creating another great art project with Out of the Box. Dress to get messy. This is for ages 3-5. Reservations are required.
VALENTINE’S DAY ELEMENTARY ART PROGRAM February 7, 3:00pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks Enjoy creating another great art project with Out of the Box. Dress to get messy. This is for ages 5-11. Reservations are required. HARRY POTTER BOOK NIGHT February 7, 3:00pm, Alpharetta Celebrate J.K. Rowling’s beloved books. You’ll have the opportunity to take classes at Hogwarts, stroll down Diagon Alley, and encounter magical creatures, as the library is transformed into the magical world of Harry Potter. REMEMBER THE 400 February 9, 1:00pm, East Roswell Celebrate the amazing narrative of African Americans from 1619-2019 at this youth-led multi-media presentation for families. There will be hands-on learning workshops for children. This is for families with children ages 6+. Reservations are required. ADULT ART CLASS - WOOD ART February 9, 2:30pm, East Roswell Create a teacup with hearts wood art piece. All levels are welcome. Reservations are required. SPOKEN WORD POETRY February 9, 3:00-4:00pm, Ocee Antonia Williams, 17-year-old published author, will perform her spoken word poems “Roots Untold” and “Magic Treasure Box.” Other performers will join her for this open mic, Black History Month event. All ages are welcome. VALENTINE’S DAY ART PROGRAM February 14, 4:00pm, Northeast/Spruill Oaks Enjoy a relaxing hour of creativity. This is for ages 9-16. Reservations are required. THE REAL MCCOY BLACK HISTORY SCIENTISTS February 15, 2:00pm, Milton Enjoy a fun-filled adventure, as you discover some very influential African-American scientists. Learn
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ROSWELL (TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS) 115 Norcross Street, Roswell, 770-640-3075
EAST ROSWELL 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, 404-613-4050
about their incredible contributions, and have fun while doing some really cool experiments. This is for ages 5+. Please R.S.V.P. to attend. LINCOLN LECTURE February 20, 6:30pm, Milton Join Kevin Spear from the Milton Historical Society, as he leads attendees in an understanding of Abraham Lincoln as a son, husband, lawyer, and writer while celebrating Lincoln’s 210th birthday. This is for ages 13+. CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH AUTHOR AND EDUCATOR SHONER JOHNSON February 23, 10:30am, Northeast/Spruill Oaks Local Atlanta author Shoner Johnson has an incredible story to tell about loss and life from her two books, which she will be signing. This is for adults and teens. Reservations are required. THE JOYS OF INDONESIAN COOKING February 23, 12:30pm, Alpharetta Chefs from the Indonesian American Community in Atlanta will share and demonstrate traditional Indonesian culture and recipes. Samples will be provided. Registration is suggested by emailing Michael. Salpeter@fultoncountyga. gov, but walk-ins are welcome. COLLEGE PLANNING WITH DIANE COHEN February 24, 2:30pm, Alpharetta College Planner Diane Cohen will help parents and high school students navigate this exciting process. Registration is suggested by emailing Michael. Salpeter@fultongountyga.gov.
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
SenatorSpeaks
Georgia’s Economic Strength By Senator John Albers
T
he stability of our economy is something that we continue to strive for, and the rate at which our nation, and Georgia specifically, is developing has exponentially exceeded my expectations. This did not happen by accident. We’ve been working diligently in the Georgia Senate to pass strong economic development legislation to support job creation. Government does not create jobs, but we can create an environment for success. Decreasing unemployment rates is a goal in our state and nation every year, but this is only a piece of the overall puzzle in terms of state and national economic development.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), Georgia’s unemployment rate was at 10.3 percent in December 2009. Fast-forward nine years to October 2018, and our unemployment rate fell to 3.6 percent. In 2018 alone, Georgia’s unemployment rate fell from 4.5 percent in January to 3.6 percent in October. Our state continues to be an industrial hot spot with more and more businesses opening, or hoping to open, to provide employment to Georgia residents. At the rate we are growing, I am confident that we are headed in the right direction, ensuring that we are finding as many employment opportunities for Georgians as possible.
Another major component that contributes to our economic climate is our international transportation of goods. According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, our state has an international presence in 12 global markets with exports to 215 countries and territories worldwide, making us the 12th largest exporting state in the nation. From 2008 to 2017, Georgia has seen an increase by billions of dollars in export industries with aerospace, defense, and security at the top of the list. Other notable industries include agribusiness, automotive, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and building and construction. Our major import industries include vehicles (non-railway), heavy machinery, and electrical machinery. Georgia ranks seventh in the nation based on dollar value imports, with imports from 17 different countries exceeding more than $1 billion.
Georgia has been named the No. 1 state in the country to do business for the fifth consecutive year. Last November, Site Selection, an economic development trade publication, ranked Georgia’s business climate as No. 1 for the sixth consecutive year. According to their records, “Georgia is the first state to hold this ranking for six consecutive years under leadership by the same governor.” There are many reasons for this; here are a few:
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Additionally, the film industry continues to thrive in Georgia. Also noted by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the film industry has created a $9.5 billion economic impact on our state, boosting not only entertainment, but also employment, tourism, and even our education systems by offering courses and firsthand experience in film.
I believe that our state is in a great place with regard to economic strength, and I’m confident that we’ll continue this path. That said, our state is only one part of the overall success our nation’s economy has seen and will continue to see. L
Senator John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of north Fulton County. 404-463-8055. SenatorAlbers.com, John.Albers@Senate.Ga.gov
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Community The Drake House Receives Generous Donation Taylor Morrison Atlanta homebuilders recently donated $4,198 to The Drake House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting the growing number of homeless women and children in north Fulton County.
children. The organization’s goal is to assist families in becoming more financially stable through education and empowerment while keeping the family unit intact.
The Drake House offers private, fully furnished apartments, weekly life-skills classes, career counseling, and after-school programming to single mothers, annually serving approximately 40 families and 80
“Working in the home building industry, Taylor Morrison realizes how important having a home is to any family,” said Shawn Cate, president of Taylor Morrison’s Atlanta division. “We
Milton Students Selected by LLS as Students of the Year
Angélica Davis and Erin Cleary, sophomores at Milton High School, have been chosen by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to fight forces against blood cancers as co-candidates for Students of the Year. To raise money and awareness, they are writing letters, sending emails, meeting with business executives, and hosting community events. Their goal is to raise $50,000 before the seven-week campaign ends on March 23.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, as the largest contributor to blood cancer research in the nation, funds cutting-edge treatment, provides peer support groups, develops informational booklets, and holds free educational conferences for patients, survivors, and caregivers. Each year, LLS selects students to participate in fundraising. Both girls have a personal connection to the LLS mission. Cleary has volunteered at Lighthouse Family Retreat, serving families battling childhood cancer. Davis’ cousin, Nina Davis, was diagnosed with high risk ALS leukemia as a baby. As scared as her family was, they received support from organizations like LLS, and she was miraculously cured. In donating to this campaign, you enable other families like Davis’ to experience a loved one’s cure. Please consider helping these girls in their fight to create a cancerfree world. With your tax-deductible donation, you save lives. You can donate online at Events.LLS.org/ga/atlantasoy19/tcurecreat. For more information, email CureCreators2018@gmail.com, or call 404-226-4458.
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
sympathize greatly with families affected by homelessness.” For more information on The Drake House or to donate, visit TheDrakeHouse.org, or call 770-587-4712.
Tennis Program Recognized Nationally In recognition of the success of its tennis program, the City of Roswell’s Recreation, Parks, Historic, and Cultural Affairs Department has been named “Park & Rec Agency of the Year” by Tennis Industry Magazine, the world’s largest trade magazine for tennis. Roswell’s award-winning tennis program is highlighted in the magazine’s January issue, which features its annual “Champions of Tennis” awards for individuals and organizations that go “above and beyond in helping to make a difference” in the tennis industry. The City of Roswell’s tennis program operates on 28 city courts at five locations, the largest of which is the 12-court Roswell Area Park. Each year, more than 4,300 people are served through the City’s tennis classes, camps, and open play areas. Almost 1,000 youth and adult tennis players are on teams that call Roswell’s tennis facilities home. To learn more about Roswell’s Recreation and Parks Department, tennis facilities, and programs, visit RoswellGov.com/Parks.
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Community Floating Homestead Exemption to Cap Assessed Home Values in 2019
Last November, voters in Roswell and other Fulton County cities approved the adoption of a Floating Homestead Exemption that will cap the annually adjusted assessed value of their home at 3 percent, starting this year. This exemption will automatically apply to residences in Roswell that have been granted the Basic Homestead Exemption from Fulton County. In order to receive the Floating Homestead Exemption in your 2019 property assessments and tax bills, homeowners must... • Already be signed up to receive Fulton County’s Basic Homestead Exemption. If a homeowner is already signed up for
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the Basic Exemption, it will be indicated on their “Annual Notice of Assessment” document. To access this document, visit FultonAssessor.org, perform a property search, and click on “Assessment Notice.” OR • File to receive the Basic Homestead Exemption by April 1, 2019. More information about this process and instructions for filing can be found at FultonAssessor.org/exemptions. The Fulton County Basic Homestead Exemption applies to the Fulton County portion of your property taxes anywhere in Fulton County, with no income or age limits. Basic Homestead Exemption renew each year automatically as long as you own the home.
While all homeowners may qualify for a Basic Homestead Exemption (and thereby, the new Floating Homestead Exemption), there are also many different exemptions available for seniors and people with full medical or veterans’ disabilities (and their surviving spouses) through Fulton County and the City of Roswell. For information about these additional homestead exemptions, visit FultonAssessor.org. If you have questions about homestead exemptions, contact the Fulton County Board of Assessors at 404-612-6440, BOA@fultoncountyga.gov, the City of Roswell at 770-641-3759, or email FSD@ roswellgov.com.
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Community Roswell Gymnasts Commit to Division I Schools Local gymnasts Caroline Williams and Lauren Rutherford have been awarded full athletic gymnastics scholarships after honing their craft in the City of Roswell’s gymnastics program since the age of two. Sixteen-year-old Williams, a junior at Centennial High School, is currently a level-10 gymnast, the highest level prior to the elite/ Olympic level. She was offered full athletic gymnastics scholarships to the University of Arkansas, Utah State, Brigham Young University (BYU), and the University of Nebraska, as well as a “walk on” position at the University of Georgia. Williams accepted the scholarship to University of Nebraska in October 2018 and will begin classes there in fall 2020.
Caroline Williams
Fifteen-year-old Rutherford, a sophomore at Johnson Ferry Christian School, is also a level-10 gymnast. She has been actively recruited by numerous Division 1 colleges and was offered full athletic gymnastics scholarships to BYU, Utah State, and North Carolina State. Rutherford has chosen North Carolina State and will begin attending in fall 2021. Williams’ and Rutherford’s achievements are a testament to the hard work and leadership of their coaches, Lorenzo Wyatt, Karla Monterroso, J.P. Monterroso, Julia Yurkina, and Olga Yurkina. Roswell Gymnastics Program Director Cindy Furman praises the young athletes’ triumphs.
Lauren Rutherford
Roswell HS junior and JROTC Cadet Anusha Pakkam has scored first place in the Southern Region and third nationally in the 2018-19 JROTC Air Rifle Postal Competition. Pakkam will compete this month in the Army Service Championship in Anniston, AL, representing Roswell HS JROTC and Fulton County Schools. If Pakkam qualifies, she will continue to the National JROTC Championship in March, which is also in Anniston, AL. The JROTC National Air Rifle Championship is sponsored and conducted by the Civilian Marksmanship Program in cooperation with the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force JROTC Commands.
“Only 3 percent of athletes obtain this level, and we are most proud to have had both Caroline and Lauren, who have trained solely at Roswell for their entire career, reach this level of achievement,” said Furman.
Now in its eighth year, the Georgia Has Talent show promises to be the best ticket in town on March 2, with guest performances by Erin Kirby, Victoria Hill, and Belle Rousse. Ticketholders will enjoy 26 competitive acts including singers, dancers, martial artists, rock bands, a twirler, a beat boxer, a STOMP percussion performance, and a bagpiper.
Georgia Has Talent 2019 Fundraiser 16
Roswell High School Student Ranked Regionally, Nationally for JROTC Riflery
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
The event takes place at Cherokee High School. The silent auction begins at 5:00pm, and performances begin at 6:00pm. With more than a hundred donations from local and national businesses, the silent auction includes musical instruments, massages, gift cards, and family outings. During the
show, there will be a raffle for a weekend at a cabin in the mountains. Proceeds are donated to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Over the past seven years, this all-volunteer fundraiser has raised about $50,000 for cancer research. See GeorgiaHasTalent.com to access the full lineup of performers, purchase tickets, and pledge a donation. The website also includes sponsorship information. Businesses interested in being a featured sponsor will receive advertising on the Georgia Has Talent social media streams as well as publication in the event program.
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Community
Local Nonprofits Receive $200,000 in Donations
Alpharetta Business Association Celebrates 25 Years
The LGE Community Outreach Foundation recently presented $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations representing the four counties LGE services (Cobb, Cherokee, Fulton, and Paulding). Nonprofits receiving donations included Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, Next Step Ministries, CASA of Paulding County, Mostly Mutts, The Zone/ Davis Direction Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia, and Warehouse of Hope. Each year, LGE employees select organizations to be supported. The LGE Foundation conducts fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for the nonprofit organizations. Every dollar raised by the LGE Foundation is matched by LGE Community Credit Union. Since 2010, LGE has invested over $950,000 to help children, the homeless, abuse victims, and those who fall on hard times.
Back in 1994, a group of downtown Alpharetta merchants banded together to promote their shops and restaurants in an effort to draw customers to the area. Now, 25 years later, that determination has paid off. That small group of business owners has transformed into the Alpharetta Business Association (ABA), and Alpharetta has become one of the best cities to live, work, and play in metro Atlanta.
The Alpharetta Business Association was originally known as the Downtown Alpharetta Business Association (DABA). Today, the Alpharetta Business Association remains committed to the historic Alpharetta area, as it continues to grow, change, and provide unlimited opportunities. The ABA’s reach now extends beyond downtown to every corner of Alpharetta. The organization welcomes all businesses in Alpharetta and the surrounding areas to join. ABA’s membership includes dedicated business professionals who work together to improve the business climate in Alpharetta.
Congratulations to our January contest winner, Brian Peterson! Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Book Review BY RYLAND JOHNSON
Adventure! Rebellion! Love and mutiny! A secret mission to save the world and a wizard named Tim! Hollis McCollum’s debut novel, To Save a World, delivers epic fantasy, fun, and honest, relatable characters bound together on a quest to (as you might expect) save the world. There’s plenty of swashbuckling fun in McCollum’s book. First of all, To Save a World is an engaging, enjoyable read, but there’s also significant depth in the tale. McCollum uses the lens of high fantasy to weave a narrative that is both a timeless coming-of-age story and a poignant parable of modern life. McCollum’s characters deal with alienation, prejudice, and cruelty. Hatred abounds in fearful hearts. Honesty is scarce while monsters are plentiful. McCollum is very good at pointing at the problems in society, but she maintains an optimistic perspective: Friendship and love save the day, growth and learning are possible with hard work and a good sense of humor, and positive local engagement can bring about wider change. There’s a library joke that young adult fiction books aren’t for young adults per se; they’re just entertaining books for everyone. McCollum’s To Save a World fits this description. It’s easy to see how young adults could relate to McCollum’s characters and identify with her community-based ethic of care, kindness, and friendship, but it’s also clear that her work would appeal to readers of any age. Hollis McCollum is a writer living in Georgia. She also dedicates her time to local children’s charities. The Ocee Library is honored to welcome her for a reading and book signing, free and open to the public, February 16 at 4:00pm.
Ryland Johnson is a librarian at Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-360-8897. AFPLS.org/ocee-branch6
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Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
Skye Precious Kids’ mission is to provide resources to families in financial crisis who are caring for children facing life-threatening illnesses and disabilities to support a healthy and safe home environment, full access to medical care and equipment, as well as educational support. Their cause is to aid families in short-term financial hardship with obtaining the necessary tools to allow them to fully focus on caring for their children’s medical and educational needs. Skye Precious Kids serves Georgia families with documented economic hardship, not already receiving financial aid from other organizations or government entities, that are caring for children from birth to 18 who are living with an illness or disability. There are an estimated 13,000 children in Georgia living with a long-term disability or chronic, incurable diagnosis. Nearly 60 percent of these children are cared for by single mothers and in many sad cases, grandmothers. The economic burdens placed on families caring for their special-needs children, particularly those fighting cancer and other life-threatening diseases, is tremendous. Often, a parent must stop working to care for their child, reducing their ability to pay for the many medical costs that are not covered by insurance. Many families may be at risk of eviction or having the lights turned off because they are behind on their bills. Some face the cost of having their homes renovated for wheelchair accessibility or will need a handicapped-accessible vehicle, both of which are not covered by insurance programs. Some will be homebound with children who cannot attend school and are struggling to keep up, so they do not fall behind in their education.
Community Partner ASSISTANCE OPTIONS
Precious Families
Short-term financial support for rent, utilities, food, gas, and other necessities during times of unemployment due to caring for children or due to transition between jobs; renovations to homes for handicapped accessibility with items such as stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, ramping, and bathroom accessibility renovations
Precious Health
Medical costs including co-pays, deductibles, medications, durable medical equipment and supplies, diapers, treatment and therapies, as well as skilled nursing and respite care; aid with bridging the gap between what Medicaid and private insurance provides and what sick and disabled children truly need but their parents cannot afford
Precious Minds
Support to continue meaningful education while homebound including tutors, homework assistance, computers and assistive technology, and scholarships for special and online courses
The families that need assistance go through Skye Precious Kids’ application screening, applying for support for their unique needs. If approved for aid through one of Skye Precious Kids’ three key programs, the organization works with medical providers, utility companies, vendors, and other payees directly. Financial aid is never given directly to individuals. Assistance is provided in the following ways:
For more information on upcoming events, and to learn how you can help, volunteer, and make a difference, visit SkyePreciousKids.org, or call 404-478-9794. Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Mayor’s Minute
The Future Is Bright in Milton By Mayor Joe Lockwood
A
s we move into February, 2019 is well underway. We celebrated Milton’s 2018 accomplishments during the State of the City event on January 31. Residents and business owners, as well as a variety of community partners, filled Milton City Council chambers in celebration of where our city has been and where we’re headed. However, the meeting was more than a celebration or party — it was about accountability, good governance, and transparency for our citizens. This event also provided the opportunity for the community to make connections with their elected officials, our staff, and with each other. If you missed this year’s State of the City, I hope you’ll mark your calendar to attend in January 2020. Until then, I’ll offer a few highlights and share what you can expect in 2019 from your City government. Milton remains one of the safest cities in Georgia with Part I crimes down an additional five percent year-to-date after a 12 percent drop in 2017. Our strong financial position continues as a result of our sound fiscal policies, which were recognized for the 10th consecutive year by the Government Finance Officers Association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. We’re successfully executing our $25 million green space bond referendum with over 200 acres of green space preserved in 2018 alone, and additional acres anticipated this year. Our transportation enhancements and improvements are in full swing with four TSPLOST projects launching in 2018 and two more projects coming in 2019, not to mention the two traffic safety officers
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that will begin providing services at key intersections during critical commute times. You saw these visible improvements throughout 2018, and you’ll continue to see these types of community advancements in 2019, but you’ll also benefit from significant enhancements taking place behind the scenes at City Hall. In 2019, our staff will be focusing on making technology work for us — the City, its staff, and our citizens. We’re implementing a new information technology strategic plan that will create administrative efficiencies for our staff and our citizens. By implementing new software and taking advantage of advanced technologies, we’re going to offer a new and improved website experience, increase self-service access to public records, and streamline the development review process, which allows our staff to more adequately focus on outcomes and expectations. We’re moving into our second decade of operation, and the future is bright in Milton! L
Joe Lockwood is the mayor of the City of Milton. 678-242-2484. Joe.Lockwood@CityOfMiltonGa.us
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The Importance of Getting Enough
With decreased sun exposure, the level of dopamine in your brain can drop. Dopamine is considered a “feel good” chemical in the brain. When this level is too low, you crave anything that will increase it.
Sunshine in Winter
By Jim Morrow, M.D. [HealthyLife] From wrinkles to cataracts to skin cancer, there are plenty of reasons not to get too much sun. However, winter provides fewer hours of sunshine, which can create issues such as depression, weak bones, heart disease, and diabetes due to too little sun exposure.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
One of the fastest ways to raise dopamine levels is to eat more carbs. So, in winter, your consumption of sweets, bread, pasta, and potatoes often increases, which raises your dopamine level — but only for a short while — so you repeat the behavior. The extra carbs cause weight gain, which can eventually lead to heart disease and diabetes. Along with decreased dopamine, there is also a drop in serotonin — another neurochemical in the brain that affects mood. When this level drops, depression creeps in. This can be mild or severe, and it can happen year after year.
To prevent decreased serotonin, find a way to get more sun or light exposure. This can be done naturally by finding the time to get outside more or by using a portable light made specifically for this purpose, which can be purchased online. Additionally, there are medications that can help with dopamine and serotonin levels. Vitamin D, also obtained through sunlight, is instrumental in many of the processes in your body such as maintaining strong bones. Adding a vitamin D supplement during the winter, if not the entire year, is a good idea. It is also inexpensive and easy to do.
Jim Morrow is a family medicine physician at Morrow Family Medicine. 12970 GA-9, Milton. 770-781-8004. MorrowFamMed.com
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Public Safety
T
hough February is usually associated with cold weather in Georgia, it could also bring warm weather and we could see both in the same week. However, it’s important to prepare for possible cold weather emergencies.
Let’s start with some definitions: A winter storm watch is issued by the National Weather Service when there is a potential for heavy snow or significant ice accumulations, usually at least 24 to 36 hours in advance. A winter storm warning is issued by the National Weather Service when a winter storm is producing, or is forecast to produce, heavy snow or significant ice accumulations. Georgians do not see many of these. However, they often confuse people as to what they mean. Georgians do see cold temperatures, and we do see moisture. As you know, when these two things combine, it can be a real mess.
What can you do? Always have a plan to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Think about that. Can your family go 72 hours in the winter without power? Keep in mind that leaving the affected area and riding it out in a warmer climate is a plan. You must have a plan that you can successfully implement that works for your family’s set of circumstances.
By Jim Cheatham Be prepared. Have you taken precautions to keep your water pipes from freezing? Is your car winter-weather ready? Do you have the appropriate clothing? What if you had to walk home? Remember layers. Do you have the necessary items in place to make your plan successful? Have you practiced your plan? That last question is very important. It’s not a plan until it is a practiced plan. Stay weather aware. Georgians are lucky that it is rare for us to have a rapidly changing weather condition that we did not know was coming. Take advantage of all the information that comes from the National Weather Service and local news stations, and plan accordingly.
usually surprised by a winter weather front, but if you have lived here a few seasons, you have seen it rain on the east side of town and get inches of snow on the west side and vice versa. Depending on the forecast, APS dedicates resources to monitor conditions full-time and begins to send out real-time information. APS also shares information from other sources like Georgia Power and Georgia Department of Transportation, and makes preparations so that weather conditions have as little impact as possible on its community response. A little forethought and prevention can go a long way. Be safe, and stay weather aware.
What does Alpharetta Public Safety do? Alpharetta Public Safety (APS) is constantly monitoring the weather, and discussions and planning start early and often. APS utilizes an abundance of caution in making plans as well as in conveying warnings to the community. As previously stated, Georgians are not
Jim Cheatham is the chief public affairs officer for the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety. Alpharetta.ga.us/ publicsafety
USEFUL LINKS OutageMap.GeorgiaPower.com/external/m.html • 511ga.org • Ready.gov/winter-weather Weather.gov/wrn/winter_safety • CDC.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/outdoorsafety.html Osha.gov/dts/weather/winter_weather/hazards_precautions.html
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Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
[HealthyLife] Trying to improve overall
Weight Loss
Starts in the
Kitchen By Grant C. Smith, D.P.T., C.S.C.S., Cert. D.N.
fitness and lose some weight? Having a difficult time getting started? There are many things to consider and many different professionals you could speak with (personal trainers, doctors, nutritionists, etc.). However, one of the most important factors to losing weight is what you eat. While many people believe exercise to be the most important thing, you cannot achieve any improvements in health or fitness without proper nutrition to fuel your body. What does this entail? The new USDA guidelines no longer recommend the food pyramid that most of us grew up with. The guidelines now recommend splitting your plate evenly into four-quarter sections: grain, protein, fruits, and vegetables. They also include an extra portion of dairy, though dairy is a very potent systemic inflammatory, which you may be wise to avoid. The other factor is making sure your heart rate remains high enough to enter the fatburning zone. This heart-rate range has been
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
shown to be the most effective in breaking down fatty deposits rather than utilizing blood sugar or carbohydrates for energy. The range lies between 60-70 percent of your age-predicted maximal heart rate. To determine your age-predicted maximal heart rate, subtract your age from 220. Take that number and multiply it by 0.6 and 0.7, which will give you the most effective zone for burning fat. You must stay within this zone for 35-45 minutes, three to five times a week for best results. It is also just as important to build muscle by engaging in an appropriate strength training program, as muscle tissue burns more energy at rest than any other tissue in the body. Thus, muscle burns more fat.
Grant C. Smith is a doctor of physical therapy and the owner/founder of Advanced Manual Therapies, LLC, 1300 Abbey Court, Alpharetta. 404-497-7717. AdvancedManualTherapies.com
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COVER STORY By Cyndi Braun
I
magine entertaining friends on a beautiful custom-built deck with wrought iron railings, drinking coffee in the shade of your screened-in porch, or warming your hands in front of a built-in stone fireplace on your backyard patio. Beautiful outdoor living spaces like these transform the average into the extraordinary and make backyard living more fun. When it’s time to create that outdoor space you’re dreaming of, it’s time to call Outback Deck, Inc. “We are on the cutting edge of the industry. If you can dream it, we can build it,” said Bryan Miller, co-owner of Outback Deck. “When we build a deck, we can put in an underdeck and a paver patio with a retaining wall and firepit. When we build a porch, we might transform it into interior
spaces with Eze-Breeze systems that make it like a three-and-a-half season room with an outdoor fireplace and kitchen.”
The Deck of Your Dreams
A well-designed deck is an affordable way to expand living space for relaxation and entertaining. Outback Deck installs ground-level, raised, or multilevel decks that coordinate
with your home and its landscaping. Experienced project managers work with clients to design and build a custom deck based on specific needs, such as areas for cooking, dining, spa, and lounging. For clients seeking more privacy, they can build trellises and pergolas. Outback Deck builds decks using a wide range of materials. Many customers choose composite or PVC decking because these materials are more durable and carry longer warranties than traditional wood decks. With the rain, humidity, heat, sunshine, and pollen in Georgia, a synthetic or composite deck offers low maintenance in an array of colors and styles, some of which resemble hardwood products. For customers interested in using traditional materials, Outback Deck has several exotic, long-lasting hardwoods they can use to provide a high-quality finish for your new deck.
Porch Options
Nothing says summer living more than the comfort of a shady porch. Whether you dream of a private screened-in space or a grand wraparound porch, Outback Deck can make your dream a reality. From classic wood to maintenancefree materials, Outback Deck creates porches that seamlessly match the exterior of your home. Specialists design porches to meet customer 24
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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budgets and individual needs, including screens durable enough to protect against tearing from weather, pets, and children. Maintenance-free porches, a durable alternative to traditional wood, provide beautiful outdoor living without the hassle and expense of annual refinishing.
The Beauty of Design
Outback Deck prides itself on guiding customers through the process of design, ensuring that the customer is an integral part of the overall creation. Solution Specialists take time to ask questions, provide feedback, and communicate. “We believe that thoughtful design
ensures a spectacular result. Your deck, patio, porch, or hardscape should fit your lifestyle, taste, and specific needs. We will guide you through the process and make sure the end result exceeds your expectations,” said John Gwaltney, co-owner. “We’ll build your outdoor living project right, or we won’t do it at all. We’re by the book.”
Hardscapes
If you want to get closer to nature and transform your backyard into a great space for entertaining, it’s time to investigate hardscaping. Hardscapes include walkways, patios, retaining walls, chimneys, and firepits. When it’s time to design your patio, consider including hardscaping features like a stone wall, firepit, or outdoor kitchen. Pavers come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, which Outback Deck can blend into existing landscaping elements. If you’re interested in outdoor entertaining, an outdoor kitchen is an excellent addition. Expert masons construct kitchens with built-in grills, counters, and storage. Other fun ideas are outdoor pizza ovens, fireplaces, and chimineas.
10 Reasons to Call Outback Deck 1. Award-w inni
ng remodelin g company 2. Residenti al and comm ercially licens 3. Thoughtfu ed contractor l, individual ized designs 4. All outdoo ba sed on custom r living spac er input e projects, in hardscape cl ud ing decks, po s rches, and 5. Wide rang e of materials to choose from and low-m including woo aintenance co d , P VC, mposite deck 6. Outback in g Deck practice s safety first by code to m building deck ake sure they s above minim are safe um 7. Training — all salespeo ple and projec Master Dec t managers ar k Builders e certified 8. A+ rating with the Bett er Business Bu 9. Member of reau Certified Cont ractors Networ Deck and k , the North Railing Assoc American iation, Guild 10. Participan Q ua lity, and Mau t of “Decks fo i Mastermind r Soldiers” an d other comm unity service projects
501 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 150, Woodstock, GA 30188
678-262-4113 OutbackDeck.net Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Freshii, an exciting new healthy and convenient eatery, is now proudly serving meals in Alpharetta. Freshii, the fast-growing health and wellness brand, is on a mission to help citizens of the world live better by making healthy eating convenient and affordable for all. Freshii is famous for their nutritionled menu inspired by global health trends. There are over 400 locations globally, and the first Georgia Freshii recently opened its doors in Alpharetta at 12460 Crabapple Road in the Kroger Center. The management behind the location, Landon Springs, Shawn Mathews, and Pat Marshall, is thrilled to open the first Freshii in the Alpharetta/Milton community with plans to open an additional four locations in the near future.
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Freshii is famous for offering an innovative menu of nutritious and delicious meal options made with high-quality ingredients like kale and quinoa. With its diverse and completely customizable menu of breakfast items, soups, salads, wraps, bowls, burritos, frozen yogurt, juices, and smoothies, Freshii caters to every dietary and taste preference, from gluten- or dairy-free to plant-based or low-carb enthusiasts. Guests can energize with best-sellers like the Pangoa Bowl — a crave-able mix of brown rice, avocado, aged cheddar, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and cilantro, topped with a fiery barbecue sauce, or try the Oaxaca Bowl where a meal is donated to a child in need with each purchase. Please visit Freshii soon. Mention this article and receive a FREE Energi Bite. View the store’s website to see the full menu at Freshii.com.
Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
PROS & CONS of a Joint Account With Mom or Dad By Debra Robinson
[StrategicLife] Adding a child to a bank account might seem like the perfect solution to safeguarding an elderly parent’s finances. Once added to the account as joint owner, the child can help with bill paying and monitor the account balance to control double payments or excessive gifts. When the parent dies, the account passes to the surviving joint owner without requiring probate. But there are downsides to adding a joint owner to a bank account that should be considered and too often aren’t. If the child added to the account has financial problems, the child’s creditors can access the funds in Mom’s or Dad’s account to satisfy the child’s debt. In that circumstance, the decision to add a child to the account to protect the parent’s money may result in the loss of the entire amount. Another downside to adding a joint owner that needs to be considered is what happens when Mom or Dad dies if there are other children. Under Georgia law, the child on
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
the account as joint owner receives 100 percent of the account. Even if the parent has left a will leaving everything equally to all children, the other children will not receive a share of the joint account. Of course, the child who receives the account is free to split the funds with the other children, but there is no legal requirement to do so. If the joint owner chooses to keep all the funds, the decision to add that child to the account caused the other children to be disinherited and undid the parent’s intended estate plan. If the risks to adding a child to the account as joint owner outweigh the benefits, there is another solution. The parent can execute a power of attorney. Georgia’s 2017 Statutory Power of Attorney form includes provisions authorizing an agent to pay bills and manage bank accounts. A properly executed Georgia power of attorney can accomplish the goal of safeguarding Mom’s or Dad’s account without the possible legal risks.
Debra Robinson is an attorney in Johns Creek. 770-817-4999. DebraRobinsonLaw.com
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THE ART OF IMPROVING POOR OR MAINTAINING GOOD CREDIT By Geoff Smith
BEST
BANK
ING C OMPA
NY
BANK
W
hile the idea of maintaining a good credit score seems simple, there is an art to really boosting your scores with the three big credit bureaus. When you want to buy a home, getting your credit score up can sometimes make a deal work, and other times it can simply improve your mortgage interest rates. There are usually things you can do immediately to boost your credit score, and there are almost always things you can do to improve it over time.
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CUST OMER
02/20
Some mortgage brokers have software that allows them to plug in a client’s credit profile and manipulate things like credit card balances and get instant reads on exactly how it will affect the scores from the three main bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Most buyers have a ballpark idea of what their credit scores are, but few know where they stand against everyone else.
ValuePenguin reports that the average credit score in America is 695. That has gone up dramatically since the downturn in 2008. The dividing line between what the mortgage industry usually considers a good versus bad credit score is 700. If your score is above 700, you will get better rates and have more options. That said, Federal Housing Administration loans can be created for people with scores as low as 590. Those rates and fees are not pretty, so it is important to try to get a rate of 590 up to at least 620. If your credit score is over 760, then you are likely getting the best rates available. Having a good credit score obviously helps you with more than just getting a good mortgage rate. A good score will get you good rates on car loans, credit cards, and can make you exempt from certain fees when signing up for new utilities. So, it’s imperative to keep working on your score. And to do that,
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the basic principles always hold true: Stay disciplined, pay your bills on time, and don’t max out your credit cards. Your credit score is really affected by two things: positive and negative credit histories. Some scores are low because of a negative history filled with late payments, maxed-out credit cards, and numerous accounts in collections. Other credit scores are low due to the person simply not having much of a credit history; these individuals are usually surprised to learn they have low credit because they are proud that they have such a low usage of credit. Not using credit cards or loans of any kind certainly requires a healthy amount of discipline. The problem is, when loan officers are trying to qualify you for a loan, they want to see something that shows your repayment history, and credit scores are the easiest way to do that. If you don’t have much of a credit history, consider opening two credit cards. Use them each month (perhaps for groceries), then pay them off each month — or at least keep your balance under 30 percent of your limit. You’ll rack up points that can be redeemed for things like travel, and you’ll boost your credit score.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
One other thing that catches people off guard are collections showing up on their credit report. These show up a lot with medical bill payments and utilities. If you have a dispute, or see that someone is trying to collect a debt of any kind, do not ignore it. Deal with it as soon as possible because they are quick to put that bill into collections, which will hurt your score. With all the junk mail and email scams out there, it is hard to decipher between what is real and what isn’t, and our medical industry is so convoluted that if you have any kind of procedure other than a routine checkup, it is hard to understand exactly what you are responsible for paying. But if you want to have a top-tier credit score, dig in, figure it out, and either
pay what they say you owe, resolve the request for payment by getting your insurance company to pay it, or get them to remove the charge in their system. Hopefully, this will help you on your next car-loan or mortgage application. There is no time like the present to work on making your credit score better than ever. *The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of Assurance Financial Group.
Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial Group (personal NMLS #104587, business NMLS #70876), 47 Perimeter Center E, Atlanta. 770-674-1433. LendTheWay.com
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2020-2021 Viking
World Cruise Highlights By Michael Consoli [Lifestyle] Viking’s newest World Cruise itinerary visits dozens of the world’s preeminent cities in one seamless itinerary. Overnight stays in 13 cities allow World Cruise guests to delve deeper into the destination, and Viking’s Culture Curriculum offers additional enrichment through onboard lectures and entertainment such as Viking’s Resident Historian program, which provides guests with a high-level historical and cultural education specific to their journey. Guests will immerse themselves in the world’s rich cultures during included excursions that provide unmatched insight into daily life as well as Privileged Access visits to cultural institutions. Highlights include the following: • Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii – Guests can enjoy everything from historic landmarks to world-class shopping. Soak up the sun along Waikiki Beach’s pristine beaches or visit Pearl Harbor. • Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii – On the “Garden Island,” guests can visit the Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens and Sculpture Park, an infusion of beautiful flora and art, and home to one of the largest
collections of bronze sculptures in the U.S., or follow the footsteps of Captain James Cook, the British explorer credited with the first recorded European contact with the Hawaiian Islands. • Moorea (Opunohu Bay), French Polynesia – This tropical island is famous for its unprecedented beauty, and its cuisine is as colorful as its landscape, drawing on influences from both European and Chinese settlers. • Hue (Chan May), Vietnam – Hue is a rich repository of palaces and temples and a seat of the Nguyen Dynasty for 150 years. Guests can experience the locals’ morning trading activities during a visit to a traditional food market or explore the crumbling stone walls of the Citadel. • Sydney, Australia – Guests will sail into Sydney’s magnificent harbor, the world’s largest, and enjoy an overnight stay allowing ample time to explore this culture-rich city. • Mumbai, India – Formerly Bombay, Mumbai is the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of India.
• Istanbul, Turkey – An overnight stay gives guests more time to explore a wealth of religious sites such as the spectacular Blue Mosque or the legendary Hagia Sophia, or sample delicious fusion cuisine, combining fresh Mediterranean fare with spices from the Far East and Asia. • London (Greenwich), England – Guests will end their sailing in this historic royal borough on the Thames River, allowing easy access to the regal capital’s iconic sights, including the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Pricing for the 2020-2021 Viking World Cruise starts at $59,995 per person and 2021 Viking World Discoveries starts at $52,995 per person, based on doubleoccupancy. Both of Viking’s new world cruise itineraries include business class international air, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, complimentary visa services, the Silver Spirits beverage package, and free luggage shipping services for embarkation. L
Michael Consoli is a professional travel and cruise specialist and owner of Cruise Planners. 770-650-7667. PlanMyCruise.com
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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The Clench and Grind of Our Busy Lives By Amanda Kossick, D.M.D.
[HealthyLife] Today, we have many modern conveniences that are supposed to make life easier. Despite these conveniences, we still find that stress gets the better of us. Stress and anxiety are some of the main reasons we clench and grind our teeth. This can cause irreversible damage to our teeth, gums, and bone structure. Our teeth are only supposed to touch when we swallow, so when we continually bring them together by clenching and grinding, our pearly whites and their supporting structures can’t take the pressure.
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Our teeth may show excessive wear on the edges and cusps. If the grinding is bad enough, extra pits will begin to form, which are called “wear facets.” If the habit continues, our gums will respond by disappearing and causing recession. When recession occurs, our root surface is exposed, and more sensitivity can occur as well as a higher likelihood of cavities forming on those root surfaces. Additionally, the root surface can start to flake away and cause abfraction lesions, which is a scooped-out appearance right above the gum line on our teeth. To protect ourselves from damage, we need to focus on healthy eating, drinking enough water, and attempting to de-
stress our lives as much as possible. This can be easier said than done. Your dentist can make appliances (night guards) to protect from teeth grinding. There is a large variety of night guards on the market; several are available in local pharmacies. The issue with overthe-counter night guards is they tend to be very bulky, and they are typically softer. Sometimes, when our teeth sense something is soft, we try to chew on it more. This can cause sore muscles and, occasionally, headaches can result from those tight muscles. Your dentist can make a custom-fitted, functional appliance to suit your needs more comfortably.
Dr. Amanda Kossick is a dentist with DeMercy Dental in Roswell. 770-641-8010, DeMercyDental.com
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How many times have you [HomeLife]
square erasers, are removing the shiny, protective surface. The same products you use to wash away mold, mildew, dirt, and germs are what are ruining the finish and causing more problems. Once the top coat is worn down and dull, it is very literally acting as a magnet for dirt and scum. A brand-new tub or recently refinished tub can go from beautiful and easy to clean to impossible to maintain. When you go to clean your bathtub (new or old), put down the bleach and bleach products.
cleaned your tub to have the first dirty foot, paw, or squirt of soap bring back all the grime and then some? This is a common problem among homeowners, and the cause is simple and surprising. Whether you have a cast iron, porcelain, cultured marble, or fiberglass tub, they all have one thing in common: a bright, shiny top coat that protects the surface of your tub or shower unit. Or at least the item/ appliance did when it was new. What exactly is causing that gorgeous finish to dull and turn into a grime magnet? Bleach! Bleach and abrasives, like those handy
Put Down That Bleach!
By Mike Simmons
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
Many will cry, “But it’s flu season!” It’s completely understandable that you want to disinfect. However, keep the bleach on
surfaces that won’t cost you in the long run, and use a safe alternative. There are many options that will clean without damaging, as well as a way to refinish your tub/sink if you have already made the bleach or abrasive mistake, but the best option is to save money by preserving surfaces in the first place.
Mike Simmons is the owner of Miracle Method of Northwest Atlanta, 4700 Ecton Drive, Marietta. 678-809-7866. MiracleMethod.com/atlanta-nw
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Saint Valentine and Love
his primary historical significance. Valentinus paid an incredibly high price for this commitment. His life reminds us that love is costly — it involves sacrifice, work, and commitment.
[InGoodFaith] When we think of Valentine’s Day, images of hearts, candy, Cupid, and flowers probably fill our minds. But February 14 also has historical significance. “Valentine” was actually the name of a real person. We have very little information about him, but what we do know symbolizes the importance of Valentine’s Day.
“Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, love does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked. Love does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.”
His name was Valentinus (or Valentino). Though there are many legends surrounding his life, it is commonly believed Valentinus lived in Rome during the third century and served as a Christian priest. Christianity was outlawed at this time, but it was discovered that Valentinus was secretly marrying Christian couples because he wanted them to share Christian love with each other, even if it was against the law. For his commitment to love, Valentinus was imprisoned, beaten, and eventually killed. He died February 14 and was buried the same day.
Years later, Saint Augustine wrote these words:
By Kevin Head, Ph.D.
Years later, the church recognized Valentinus’ commitment to love and commemorated him as a saint. Among other things, Valentinus is the patron saint of happy marriages, beekeepers, plagues, and epilepsy. His commitment to love, however, remains
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In 1 Corinthians, Paul writes these words about love:
“What does love look like? It has hands to help others, feet to hasten to the poor and needy, eyes to see misery and want, ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of others. That is what love looks like.” As we share cards, flowers, and candy this year with those we love, may we also remember the special person — Saint Valentine — who reminded the world that love involves sacrifice, work, and commitment.
Dr. Kevin Head is senior pastor of First Baptist Roswell. 770-587-6980, Kevin@fbroswell.org
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Artist Profile
The Ever-Evolving Art
BY JENNIE MAYES
Jennifer Ferris
of
Ferris first started painting small birds as gifts, and it’s easy to see why these gifts became so popular. Her paintings are full of joy and vibrancy. “My goal has always been to paint happy paintings,” she says, “and I would see the joy in so many of my loved ones while watching their bird feeders.” She also feels that studying birds and nature has improved her work. It has helped her to become more observant over time, “I feel I can ‘see’ better in terms of color and structure. It is hard to improve on the beauty already provided by nature, so really seeing what is there can be key,” says Ferris.
L
ocal artist Jennifer Ferris has traveled a lot, picking up inspiration along the way, but she gives the lion’s share of credit to her mother and grandmother. When asked how her art is a continuation of or departure from theirs, she says, “The most common thread is our love of nature, and our choice of flowers and birds as a frequent subject matter. Also, our drive for perfecting our craft — my grandmother wanted to paint a rose realistic enough that you would want to smell it, and my initial desire with my birds was to paint them so they looked like they were about to fly off the canvas. I have since tried to loosen up, and that is one indicator of how my work differs from theirs. While I like to incorporate elements of realism in my work, I tend to lean toward abstraction. My color palette is also quite different, being inspired more by trends in fashion and home decor, and theirs more closely align to those found in nature.”
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Ferris began with oils, but after an acrylics workshop, she says she was completely converted. “I take photos constantly, and most of my realistic paintings are based on these. I get the most joy, though, out of painting nonrepresentational abstracts right out of my head without any reference, as that is the most freeing for me.”
doesn’t allows her to continue to evolve both as an artist and as a teacher. “The students who stick out most are the ones at the opposite ends of the spectrum, those who are super excited about the lesson and seem to really get it, and then those who have more trouble understanding the process or direction. The former makes me love teaching so much, and the latter helps me get better at ‘rescuing’ students before they get frustrated.” Ferris’ advice for beginning artists? “Be authentic. Don’t copy anyone else’s work, and remember that goes for photographers as well. Practice your craft as often as possible. Never stop trying to learn and improve. Find a community of artists to work with, or to at least chat with frequently. Painting can be a lonely endeavor — lots of ups and downs. Try to be super confident at your easel and super supportive of other artists.” To learn more about Ferris’ work, visit FerrisWheelArts.com or JenniferFerrisArt.com.
When asked about her daily practice, Ferris replied that she works on her paintings in a series and will typically have “at least three to five paintings of a series going at once,” and sometimes multiple series, meaning as many as 10-20 paintings at a time. Ferris has also learned from her students. Paying attention to what works and what
Jennie Mayes 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/
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Know Your Dental Benefits By Vishant Nath, D.M.D. [HealthyLife] During the shortest month of the year, with the hustle and bustle of the holidays now a distant memory, it’s a great time to think about dental insurance benefits. While it isn’t the most exciting topic, it is important to know your coverage. And if you figure it out early in the year, you increase your chances of getting the most out of your benefits. Unlike medical insurance, which is in place to cover unforeseen and emergency medical costs, dental insurance is more like a coupon that can offset routine dental care
costs. Dental insurance plans differ in what they cover – routine visits and treatment, orthodontics, or even cosmetic treatments. They also differ in the percentage of dentist’s fees they cover.
participant in knowing your coverage options. Empower yourself by calling your provider, or visit their website and get all the information you can regarding your specific plan.
If you have dental insurance coverage, you are probably paying a monthly premium. As with all things in life, it is important to know what you are paying for. Some insurance plans have parameters that limit which dentist you can choose for treatment. Others require preapproval of treatment plans. Some may limit the number of times a certain treatment will be covered. All these parameters can diminish your options, so it is best to know the details of your specific plan before treatment is scheduled/performed.
If you do not have dental insurance, realize that many dental offices understand the financial burden of dental treatment, so they often offer finance options using third-party vendors.
It is also important to remember that your dental insurance plan is an agreement between you and your insurance provider. Though many dental offices take the time to submit dental claims on your behalf, you need to remain an active
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The bottom line is this: Start the year off right by knowing your dental insurance coverage options, and then schedule your twice-yearly dental visits for cleanings and exams. Remember, prevention is the best way to avoid the need for extensive dental treatment.
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com
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Quotables “Your competition isn’t other people. Your competition is your procrastination, your ego, the unhealthy food you consume, the knowledge you neglect, the negative behaviors you nurture, and/or your lack of creativity. Compete against these things.” -Unknown
“Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future, and renders the present inaccessible.” -Maya Angelou “There are two reasons why we don’t trust people. First, we don’t know them. Second, we know them.” -Unknown
“We gain the strength of the temptation we resist.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” -C.S. Lewis
“The future is no more uncertain than the present.” -Walt Whitman “Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality.” -Emily Dickinson
“Be stubborn about your goals and flexible about your methods.” -Unknown
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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By Hunt Anderson, M.D.
February is American Heart Month, but taking care of your heart is something you should prioritize yearround. A strong heart is essential to vitality; taking it for granted can be deadly. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease accounts for one out of every three deaths in the United States. To put that into perspective, a person in this country dies of heart disease every 38 seconds. Much like the national statistics, Georgia’s own numbers on
cardiovascular disease are grim. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, heart disease is responsible for 20,000 deaths a year. In addition, Georgia Health News recently cited a report that nearly one in five young Georgians (ages 10 to 17) is obese, as well as recent findings by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that this grows to one in three adults being obese. This extra body weight can significantly increase the risk for heart failure, heart disease, and stroke.
In Georgia and beyond, taking care of one’s heart is a serious matter. While some are predisposed to heart conditions based on family history, making healthy choices is important in battling heart disease and other cardiovascular illnesses. Diet, exercise, scheduling regular checkups, and finding ways to manage stress are factors we can — and should — aim to improve and maintain, no matter what genetic factors may be at play. Here is what you can do:
Establish and stick with a smart and sensible diet.
The well-being of the circulatory system and heart is very dependent on foods that promote proper heart function. Eating healthier foods can make a big difference. Controlling portion size, staying well hydrated, limiting unhealthy fats, and consuming lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are essential to a healthy diet. Nutritionists recommend choosing options such as fish, eggs, and dairy to get your protein. Reducing sodium intake to below 2,300 milligrams per day – about a teaspoon of salt – is also important.
Get the right amount of exercise.
With discipline, we can keep our hearts successfully pumping oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. True to its name, cardiovascular exercise is beneficial to the cardiovascular system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderateintensity activity, which can be broken into 10-minute blocks, if needed. 40
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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Schedule regular checkups.
Some individuals wait until something is wrong with their health before seeing a doctor, but the adage is true: Early detection is crucial. Doctors use measurements like body weight and blood pressure, as well as conducting cardiovascular screenings during routine appointments, to help make recommendations about heart health. If you’re older than 20, get your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index checked. q BMI q Blood Pressure q Cholesterol
Manage stress.
The American Heart Association recommends trying “stress-busting” activities such as creating art, reading a book, listening to music, or going for a walk, in addition to “stress-stoppers” like counting to 10 before reacting, meditating, and more. Similar to maintaining a healthy diet and exercising, attempt to make managing stress part of your daily routine.
Know your family history.
Heart trouble (including high blood pressure), heart disease, and other related issues can be passed from one generation to the next. If your parents or grandparents have experienced a stroke, heart disease, or a heart attack, it’s important to tell your doctor, who may recommend further testing. If heart disease is part of your family history, it’s even more essential to live a healthy lifestyle that incorporates proper diet, physical activity, and stress relief. While American Heart Month is a great reminder to take care of the body’s most important organ, we should aim to keep it a priority year-round. Statistics from the American Heart Association paint a daunting picture for those who ignore symptoms and choose to live an unhealthy lifestyle. The good news? By eating better, exercising more, scheduling checkups, managing stress, and learning family history, you can soon be on the road to better heart health.
FAMILY HISTORY q Stroke q Heart Disease q Heart Attack Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
Dr. Hunt Anderson is currently in practice with WellStar Medical Group Cardiovascular Medicine. 4500 Hospital Boulevard, Suite 230, Roswell. 770-410-4520. WellStar.org
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Between the holidays and [HomeLife] spring break, children may lose some of their academic focus. Here are a few suggestions to keep them motivated to stay on track at school, so they can end the year on a high note. Continuously encourage your child. As parents, some of the best things we can do to help our children are to be involved, be available, and be supportive, which shows that we care about their overall well-being and their academic success. Involved parents can usually sense when their children need an extra push to stay focused. Check in on kids while they are studying, put encouraging notes in their lunch or backpack, and solicit help from teachers or tutors if they are falling behind in a subject. Schedule fun activities on the weekend. If kids have something fun to look forward to after a long week, it might give them the extra energy they need to buckle down and get school work done.
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
TIPS TO AVOID
Academic Burnout By Christy Noll Suggestions include ice skating, hiking, bowling, movies, indoor go-carting, aquatic centers, and laser tag. Keep their weeknight activities at a manageable level. Parents can help manage stress by making sure children aren’t overscheduled. Be sure they have enough time to do their homework, study, and get enough sleep. Create a healthy reward system. If children have something they can work towards (money, dinner at a favorite restaurant, a special toy, etc.), they are usually more motivated to stay focused. In a perfect world, they would be motivated
simply by a desire to learn. But how many of us would want to show up at our jobs everyday just to help others in some capacity if we weren’t collecting a paycheck? Hopefully, these suggestions will help your children hunker down and finish out the year with increased knowledge and great grades.
Christy Noll is founder of AlpharettaMoms.org, a resource that connects North Fulton families with community organizations, programs, and events.
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Taking It All in With Admiration By Cindy Comstock
[HealthyLife] Working at the front desk of a pediatric therapy clinic has enabled me to watch a myriad moms and dads of children with special needs. I see their struggles such as trying to get out of the car in the rain with a child in a wheelchair, holding the little hand of a “runner,” managing meltdowns, or trying to push a wheelchair while carrying a baby in a carrier, just to name a few. I also see frustrations like juggling several doctors’ appointments in one day or wondering how they’re going to get therapy for one child and make it back to the bus stop for another child.
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North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
I’ve talked to several parents to learn what their days are like. Most say they don’t get much sleep. Showers can be difficult. Many of their children are completely dependent on them. Feeding is another exasperating task. Some are spoon fed while others are fed through a tube. Some children take dozens of medications a day, and parents must stay on top of that. Many also have other children to take care of. These moms and dads are strong and courageous. They manage to maintain
smiles on their faces while speaking kind words to others. They build relationships with other parents while waiting for their child to finish therapy. They talk to each other like old friends, sharing their latest struggles and encouraging one another. They laugh out loud while discussing the latest things their children said or did. They sometimes even crowd around a table and do crafts together. Other parents may grab a cup of coffee or tea and catch up on their reading or knitting. For some, the time that their child is in therapy may be the only break in their day. They can relax knowing their child is in good hands. These moms and dads are an inspiration.
Cindy Comstock is a receptionist at In Harmony Pediatric Therapy, 9880 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock. 770-687-2542. InHarmonyPediatricTherapy.com
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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. Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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11605 Haynes Bridge Road, Suite 100, Alpharetta, 770-993-8806 GNFCC.com
Kale Me Crazy
iTrust Home Services
50 Canton Street, Suite 101 Alpharetta 470-509-0744 Restaurant
3535 Trotter Drive Alpharetta 470-369-0000 Home Automation
Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings
Black Dog Interiors 1243 Canton Street Roswell 470-514-5414 Home Furnishings and Interior Design
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Ann Jackson Gallery
Serendipity Gifts & Boutique
Icebox Cryotherapy
(new location) 1101 Alpharetta Street Roswell 770-993-4783 Art Gallery
(new location) 35 Oak Street Roswell 770-643-0402 Boutique and Gift Shop
2685 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 125 Alpharetta 470-268-4655 Innovative Cold Therapy
Mountain High Outfitters
Wingate by Wyndham Alpharetta
Dropkick Fitness
405 S. Broad Street Alpharetta 470-268-7175 Retail
1005 Kingswood Place Alpharetta 770-649-0955 Hotel
11550 Webb Bridge Way, Suite B2 Alpharetta 678-404-7509 Exercise/Fitness
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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py Hap ’s Day! tine n e l Va the Find Word en d d i H
Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton
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Advertiser Index Advanced Manual Therapies
43
Alpharetta Business Association
48
Alpharetta Foot & Ankle Specialists
15
Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra
32
Cruise Planners
23,44
Danco Property Care
32
Debra Robinson Law Group
3
DeMercy Dental
21
The Drake House YPAC
42
Elderly Care Services, LLC
12
Foster Care Support Foundation
39
Freshii 26 In Harmony Pediatric Therapy
Inside Back
Internal Medicine Practice of Northside
Inside Back
Internal Medicine Specialists of Roswell
3
LGE Community Credit Union
7
Law Offices of J. Christopher Miller, PC
12
Live! in Roswell
18
Martha B. Boone, M.D.
12
Miracle Method of Northwest Atlanta
42
Morrow Family Medicine
33
Newtown Medical
5
North Atlanta Vascular Clinic & Vein Center
35
North Atlanta Women’s Care
34
Northside Heart
Inside Front
Northside Hospital
1
Northside Vascular Surgery
6
Outback Deck, Inc
Cover, 24-25
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
Inside Front
and Dentistry at Milton Pete’s Plumbing, Inc. The Pink Valise Boutique
North Fulton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
3
Roswell Beer Festival
30
Run the River 5K/10K
30
Tour of the Southern Highlands
38
WellStar
48
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Back Cover
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