Alpharetta July 2016 by City Lifestyle

Alpharetta JULY 2016

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Lifestyle Letter

Happy July 4th Alpharetta! W

JULY 2016 publisher

Jim Newman | JNewman@LifestylePubs.com

here will you wave your flag on the fourth? Will you join your neighbors at Wills Park for fun and fireworks? The display begins at dusk. I love that is it a rain or shine event! Or, maybe you will start the night out over at Chukkar Farms or with music at Matilda’s Cottage. Wherever you go, pack the sparklers, something sparkling to sip on and be safe.

We’ve put together a July issue packed with love, for summer. From porch promises to polo to pools, we’ve got you covered. Meet the team at Union Hill Polo, where our own Jenny Kepano of Alpharetta rides as referee and is a champion for the sport. “We have the best tailgate picnicking in Atlanta and everyone is warmly welcomed to come out to watch a match or even take some lessons and join the fun,” says Jenny, who is one of Lifestyle Publications’ marketing reps. We fell in love with realtor Rhonda Shell’s listing on Oakview Court. Just look at that yard and all those porches! I’m afraid I’d never leave if I lived there.

editor

Sue G. Collins | SCollins@LifestylePubs.com associate editor

Darce Richardson | Darce.Richardson@LifestylePubs.com advertising director

Karyn Slovin | Karyn.Slovin@LifestylePubs.com copy editor

Kendra Mathewson contributing writers

Alexa Lampasona, Paige Spooner contributing photographers

Scott Areman, Marcus Kraus Photography, Alexa Lampasona, Susan Elizabeth Talbot

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Have a safe and celebratory month, Alpharetta.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

Keep in touch,

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Sue

AD COORDINATORS

LAYOUT DESIGNER

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

SCollins@LifestylePubs.com

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour

DESIGN SPEICALIST

Sue G. Collins, Editor

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

by Community ™

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Summer is all the better when your backyard pool looks like this.

AtlasPools.com 4

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

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TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Alpharetta’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

PASSION. WISDOM. RESULTS.

Personal Injury I Wrongful Death I Criminal Defense I Family Law I Wills

(770) 823-2711 wwattorneys.com

Providing personal legal protection to the families of our community.

July 2016

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Open House

Local Limelight

Lifestyle Calendar

Sold Properties

Parting Thoughts

16 Sun Warriors

Skin professionals share their secrets for battling the rays.

22 Three Trails, Three Ways

Bike, walk or run on one of these cool trails nearby.

Good Times

Hope Ball

The American Cancer Society hosted the Hope Ball at the Delta Flight Museum raising close to $600,000, with $130,000 for lung cancer research in honor of Hope Award recipient Jeff Wigbels. Guests enjoyed the All-Star Celebrity Band, Kendra Scott jewelry and fantastic auction items. MARCUS KRAUSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jack Wigbels salutes his dad.

Buckhead's Jeff Wigbels

Tiffany Wigbels

Lifestyle Publications' contest winners

Marcus Krause Photography

Van Michael Goes Global

Van Michael Salon again welcomed more than 50 stylists, owners and entrepreneurs from Japan's hottest hair salons. Van Michael is a global powerhouse, teaching the newest techniques and sharing knowledge through these annual symposiums. The visitors pump thousands into the local economy, too! PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT AREMAN

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

Golsen Family Dentistry Smile like royalty “A picture is worth a thousand words for a beauty queen as well as in dentistry. In our office oral cameras are used which allows our patients to see what we see. Seeing is believing.” Jill M. Golsen D.M.D. 2016 President Georgia Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Sabrina Elson Miss Atlanta's Outstanding Teen

Along with million dollar smiles, Dr. Golsen’s patients receive her undivided attention with each patient, cutting edge preventive maintenance procedures and a dentist they can trust. 770.667.4855 • GolsenDental.com 3400-A Old Milton Parkway, Suite 430 • Alpharetta, GA

Around Town

AROUND TOWN EAT OUT(DOORS)

obliged to commit to any certain number of hours and can select which activities fit their schedules and interests. MFRF also strives to connect local businesses with services that might benefit first responders directly. A recent example is local attorney John Hill, who stepped up in a big way by donating many hours of his time and expertise to assist Milton firefighters and police officers with invaluable legal services. Hill personally drafted 39 wills, powers of attorney, and medical directives for first responders and their spouses. This equates to $25,000 worth of work had he charged for these services. Hill says, “It was an honor to work with these local heroes.” Milton First Responders Foundation and Alpharetta Lifestyle

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails 2016 Garden

would like to thank Hill for generously offering his time and services to

Dinner Series begins May 15. Additional dates

ensure that our first responders have these important documents in order.

in the series are June 12, July 17, August 21, Sept.

Volunteer: MiltonFirstResponders.org. Legal help: Chill@BhvLegal.com.

18 and Oct. 9. Mouths typically start watering as soon as the first hors d’oeuvres and libations

4TH POLO IN THE PINES

are passed out during the evening recep-

Are you looking for an in-town destination this fall? Polo in the Pines

tion. During this time, guests have an oppor-

invites you to experience Southern hospitality, farm-to-table cuisine and

tunity to tour Milton's Acre. Then, it’s on to a

equestrian lifestyle at this fourth annual charity polo event on October

memorable four-course meal of inspired com-

8, produced with Sean Okeefe Events. Enjoy Divots, Dining & Dancing

fort foods served family style under the stars

on the banks of the Chattahoochee located at the Atlanta Polo Club. This

accompanied by wine pairings and the soothing sounds of a cellist. Tickets

exclusive polo venue is quietly

are $135 per person, per dinner. Tickets are nonrefundable and include wine

nestled inside the perimeter of the

pairings, tax and gratuity. The dinners start at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m., depending on

Vining’s community. “Connecting

the sunset. To purchase tickets, visit MiltonsCuisine.com.

with others to help the cause” is the

CAMBRIDGE TO OFFER ANIMAL STUDIES

inspiration. Founder Tina Fowler and Co-chair Jennifer Bonner share the

In a first for the county, Cambridge High School has begun work on a

passion to give back for this worthy

new building and classrooms dedicated to animal sciences, which will

cause near and dear to their hearts.

include 4,800 square feet of classroom and lab space and a 2,160-square-

The 2016 beneficiary is CURE

foot pole barn. “The community has been really excited about the whole

Childhood Cancer. “It is a privilege to

program,” says Principal Ed Spurka. “It will be a great feature on campus.”

continue honoring the lives of others

The building will accommodate all sorts of animals for learning – goats,

through the personal journeys we

chickens, and other small animals, as well as horses and cows.

share,” says Tina. "We are proud to announce our 2016 honorees,

HELP NEARBY

Lacey Johnson and Matthew Willis. Please join us in celebrating life at

In March of this year, DecisionPoint Wellness opened a drug and alcohol outpatient program in Johns Creek that features an innovative approach to treating the disease of addiction. Local resident, founder and

this Pretty Woman-style polo event." PolointhePines.com

WINE SUCCESS

CEO Mike Reis is a former corporate executive, who won his own

Congratulations to our friends at the Destin Charity Wine Auction

35-year battle with alcoholism, understands that addiction is an equal

Foundation (DCWAF) celebrating the 11th Annual Destin Charity Wine

opportunity disease; it touches everyone regardless of their education

Auction, raising more than $2.65 million for children in need in northwest

or income. Mike is also co-author of the

Florida. The record breaking results are a $350,000 increase over the $2.3

book, Recovery of a Lifetime, written with his

million raised last year. The funds raised are distributed to 14 local non-profit

son Chris Reis, Super Bowl XLIV champion

organizations for specific projects and programs that benefit children. The

and hero. His personal journey through

auction was comprised of 55 unique Live Lots, 27 Super Silent offerings,

recovery is why he decided to open a dif-

and 120 Silent Lots. The sold out event was attended by 636 wine enthusi-

ferent kind of outpatient treatment center

asts, making it the most successful Destin Charity Wine Auction to date. In

for adults. For more info: 888.892.8198, or online DPWellnessCenter.com.

DecisionPoint Wellness, CEO Mike Reis

VOLUNTEER WITH POLICE AND FIRE MFRF is building a team of volunteers willing to offer their time and talents to support various activities throughout the year. Volunteers are not 10

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

addition, during the Wine Auction weekend, 14 Patron Dinners were held in notable restaurants and private homes in the area. As the top charity fundraising event in northwest Florida, the Destin Charity Wine Auction has been ranked among the nation’s top ten highest-grossing charity wine auctions in the country by Wine Spectator magazine for four consecutive years. Save the date for next year’s event, April 28 – 30. DCWAF.org.

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Open House

A Charming Address ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

he bright white farmhouse on Oakview Court in Windward is a beacon on the perfect summer Alpharetta day. Nestled among mature pines and hardwoods on nearly one and a half acres on the Big Creek Greenway, the red shuttered farmhouse is the picture of tranquility and tradition. The six bedrooms and three bathrooms, the home’s early American appeal, proximity to highways and shopping and expansive woodsy lot attracted the recent buyers, a young family. Built in 1985, the 5,200-square-foot home boasts 12” wood plank flooring, fireplaces galore, master and in-law suites on the terrace level and a charming rustic-style kitchen. Rhonda Shell had the pleasure of listing the home and says the home’s style and unique decor stood out. “The property looks like a historic home with early American charm, old wood floors and unique furnishings.” Rhonda Shell

Joan and Bob Hosfeld (back) with Carrie & Bradley Disher, the new owners of their Alpharetta home,

Realtors sold the home in the spring for clients who are downsizing, just in time for the new owners to enjoy the wide porches, bright sun room, comfortable screened porch, decks for grilling, patios and wood fire pit. The listing was hot and it had multiple offers within two days along with an open house that over 60 families attending. “Our realtor is top of the mountain when it comes to dedication, determination and ability. Rhonda Shell is the best of the best in selling homes, in work ethic and in patience,” says sellers Joan and Bob Hosfeld. “She was straight with us all the way, not pushy and the hardest darn worker I have seen. She is 5-star quality and now will remain a 5-star friend.” Congratulations to Rhonda and her team.

RhondaShellRealtors.com.

July 2016 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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SUN

WARRIORS Skin professionals share their secrets for erasing sun damage. ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

hile I am vigilant with the sun screen, wide-brimmed

Silk and Restylane Lyft are my other go to products and

hats and serious after-sun serums all summer long, I was

my favorites for this category. These fillers can plump up

curious about what other options are at my fingertips for skin

anything from fines lines to deflated cheeks and restore

care and repair. I chatted with our friends at Aesthetic Specialty

lip volume. With this treatment, you can expect to see your

Centre and asked team members to share their favorite go-to

result right away but as a couple weeks go by, surprisingly,

non-invasive treatments. This summer, why not love what you

it seems to improve. Volumizing lines or entire areas of the

see in the mirror from every angle? I like the sound of that!

face are not to be feared. This treatment can be done achiev-

KIM DONAHUE, PA-C. The physician assistant says, if you're

ing very natural results.

looking for a noninvasive way to tighten and lift your skin,

DR. MARC E. YUNE is a double board certified facial plastic

Ulthera may be perfect for you. Through the use of hyper-fo-

and reconstructive surgeon and suggests Thermi®, a versatile

cused, ultrasonic heat, Ulthera revitalizes your existing collagen

treatment used for aesthetics, dermatology and women's health

and promotes the production of brand new collagen in your

and well-being. “We are able to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive

skin. Ulthera has become one of the most popular anti-aging

sweeting )– skin laxity (for the face & body) and offer vaginal

technologies across the country because it is safe, noninvasive,

rejuvenation - using non-invasive radio frequency and offering

and is associated with minimal to no down time. This procedure

optimal patient satisfaction with little to NO down-time with

can make your skin look younger while slowing the aging pro-

these in-office procedures.”

cess. Ulthera is most commonly on the brow area – eyes - face

ALLIE MCALLISTER, FNP-C, says cellulite is a top complaint

- neck and décolleté, but is also used to tighten and lift the skin

from most of her female patients and affects what over 90% of

of the abdomen, buttocks, and above your knees.

women see when they are looking in the mirror. “With Cellfina

TRACEY GREGORY, FNP-BC loves her job. “I enjoy the blend

we finally have a treatment that smooths dimples in a quick,

of science and art and the ability to be creative. I truly love cre-

minimally invasive in office procedure. Your beach body will

ating natural beauty and empowering my patients with self-es-

thank you – let’s face it DIMPLES are just NOT that cute on all

teem,” says the nurse practitioner. Neurotoxins such a Botox,

cheeks,” notes the ASC nurse practitoner.

Dysport and Xeomin are first on my list for improving wrinkles

KIMBERLY PALMIERI, LMA-CLT, says that even patients

between the brows, around the eyes, forehead, bunnylines,

who are working out and are within their target weight

lifting the corners of the mouth and improving neck bands.

and take their diet serious can have stubborn areas left

Neurotoxins have been used for many years and have been

behind. CoolSculpting targets and addresses those areas

proven to be safe for both cosmetic and therapeutic treatments

of unwanted fatty tissue of the abdomen – inner and outer

in most cases. Neurotoxins can be injected to look very natural

thigh – love handles – flanks – bra fat and even the unwanted

and reflect a more rested appearance.

double chin now with the new Cool Mini applicator. Both male

Dermal fillers are another great favorite that can be used to improve overall volume loss and soften lines that are pres-

and female patients alike have found Coolsculpting to be the ideal go to treatment for sculpting.

ent at rest. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm UltraPlus XC, Juvederm Voluma XC, Restylane 16

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

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Luxe Pools ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

rowing up, we belonged to a family swim club a few miles

Once you choose the plan that suits you best, Atlas Pools

down a country road from our suburban Michigan home. To

will obtain all the necessary building permits (unless there is a

get there, I’d have to wait for my dad to get home from work (he

variance issue) and get to work.

swam slow and methodical laps during adult swim) or do more

Installing a pool begins with groundwork: trees and debris must

than my required list of chores to earn my mom’s attention for a

be removed. Sometime a retaining wall is needed. “We can do all of

mid-day swim. Or, I could ride my baby blue Schwinn the mile

this for you,” notes Mark. “There is no need to contract elsewhere.”

and a half down the dirt road, wrapping a beach towel around my

All pools are required by county laws to be in a fenced area,

face like a shemagh for protection against the dry dust kicked up

however. You may have to get with your subdivision or community

by passing cars.

regulators to see what size and height is allowable for your fence, if

I dreamed of having our own back yard pool. I probably even suggested the addition. I most likely begged.

you don’t already have one. Then comes the magic: grading the land and installing the

Mark Spiezio of Atlas Pools can help.

inground pool system of your dreams. “The final results are exciting

All you have to say is "I want an inground pool" and let Atlas

and dramatic. You'll love your new pool!” promises Mark, who has

Pools handle the rest. Mark says, pool construction goes like this:

worked hard for 35 years for continuous customer satisfaction." One example of a satisfied customer is John Howell, whose

“First, we'll come to your property for an on-site assessment.

Alpharetta home now boasts a beautiful pool by Atlas. He

This includes looking at the property plat for setbacks, utility

says, "Atlas provided support before, during and especially

easements and flood plains that would hinder construction of

AFTER the construction of our new pool. It was a pleasure to

your inground pool.”

know customer service was their number one priority.”

Next, the team will show you our personally customized design recommendations within your price range.

Close your eyes, grab a towel and enjoy dipping into the pools on these pages. Happy summer!

July 2016 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

Vickery Creek Trail

THREE TRAILS, THREE WAYS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXA LAMPASONA

lpharetta’s location on the outskirts of the city is flush with forests and trails, making it a prime location for outdoor recreation. Between its many parks and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, outdoor lovers can find plenty of options for hiking, biking and running trails. Grab the map and details off the National Park Service website, NPS.gov. These are three of my favorites. FOR HIKING: VICKERY CREEK TRAIL

Just down the road from Historic Roswell, Vickery Creek Trail follows the creek along steep banks and thick Georgia forest in several loop trails. Vickery Creek, also known as Big Creek, is a tributary north of the Chattahoochee River. Low hanging trees and vegetation line the trails, most of which are double-wide and packed with a mix of pine straw and dirt. Take the main outer loop for a 3-mile hike, and make a detour on the side trails to see the covered bridge, two historic mill ruins and the Roswell Mill spillway dam. With its historical views, minimal elevation, and short distances, this is a great hike for the family. Use the South Atlanta Street trailhead to see the Allenbrook Historic House and the ruins of the Roswell Mill, which was used to produce cotton for Confederate soldiers in the 1800s. Hike clockwise and you’ll reach the Roswell Spillway dam, which powered the mill during the Civil War period. Now the miniature waterfall is a pleasant view along the hike. As a part of the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area, there is a $3 parking fee. 400 Riverside Road Roswell FOR MOUNTAIN BIKING: BIG CREEK PARK

Whether mountain biking or road cycling, Big Creek Park has options to pedal for miles. From the main parking lot at Old Alabama Road, road cyclists can hop on Big Creek Greenway, a paved multi-use path that stretches 8.3 miles from Old Alabama Road in Roswell to Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta. This road is largely uninterrupted by traffic and is best for those doing easy, flat rides, as the speed limit is 15 miles per hour. Mountain bikers can dive into the woods on the singletrack trails nestled in Big Creek’s dried-up creek bed. Beginners can tackle the rollers while advanced riders will find technical features, such as angled bridges, log Cochran Shoals rides, dirt jumps and steep descents. The 6.8 miles of mountain biking trails are well marked with both blazes and abundant signage. 1600 Old Alabama Road, Roswell Rambo-mtb.org/Big-Creek-Park

FOR TRAIL RUNNING: COCHRAN SHOALS

The Cochran Shoals trailhead is one of the prime spots for trail running near the Metro Atlanta area. The gravel 3-mile loop runs parallel to the Chattahoochee River and then loops away from the river to a stretch alongside forests and meadows. This is great for beginners who want to try out an alternate surface to road running. Once you’ve built up miles, run into the wooded sections where you can explore a confluence of well-marked trails weaving through the forests. These trails are more technical, with roots and rocks, so keep an eye on your feet. A fun section of the woods is the portion along Gunby Creek, where the trail dips and requires you to cross the pebbled creekbeds no wider than 5 feet. Trail runners are allowed on the mountain bike loop, where the trails roll up and down in sweeping curves, but its recommended to run the opposite direction of bike traffic. In July, these trails are well-shaded, and cool drafts of air drift in from the river. As a part of the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area, there is a $3 parking fee. 5450 Interstate N Pkwy, Sandy Springs July 2016 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

Referee and equestrian, Jenny Kepano manages marketing for the club

Alpharetta's David Lees

Union

Hill Polo ARTICLE ALEXA LAMPASONA

PHOTOGRAPHY SUSAN ELIZABETH TALBOT AND SCOTT AREMAN

Estoban Zoppi is from Argentina

Club founder, Buckhead's Dr. Eric Steenlage 24

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

At Union Hill Polo Club in Canton, crowds are a diverse mix of families, couples, polo fans and newbies to the sport. The parking lot turns into a tailgating party, where spectators pull out all the stops: grills smoking with burgers and chicken, spreads of appetizers, and coolers of beer and wine. “We challenge that we’re more fun than any other tailgate in the city,” says Jenny Kepano, marketing and events coordinator for the club. The sport of polo is a hybrid of the rigor of hockey, the precision of golf, and the speed of horse racing. It’s an intense sport marked with speed, agility and athletic prowess from both man and horse. The action on the field is exciting to watch and rivals any other spectator sport. Polo first came to the United States in 1876, brought over from England, where it had become successful since the Persian noblemen and British aristocrats played the sport. Polo is played on horseback with a long-handled mallet and a wooden ball. Two teams of four players compete during two hours in Chukkers, six timed periods. The field itself is the largest of any organized sport, at 300 yards long and 160 yards wide. Union Hill Polo Club was founded by Dr. Eric Steenlage in 2010. For its size, Atlanta has relatively few polo clubs--five in total. There wasn’t a club that combined both the faster games and the fun social environment that is associated with polo. Steenlage, who had become an avid polo player and enjoyed watching the sport, created the club to fill the gap in Atlanta’s polo scene. DETAILS

Union Hill Polo Club 430 Roper Road, Canton For info: JennyKepano@Comcast.net 770.712.5541

Union Hill Polo Club strives to be a club that combines both great polo for all levels in both the Arena and Field, as well as provide a social scene that is enjoyed by all. Anyone with an interest is encouraged to learn the game. All levels are welcome, even if you’ve never played polo or ridden a horse. Private and group lessons are available for anyone to take, and range from 30 minutes to a full day. Ella Shalom Smith, Steenlage’s sister, started taking riding lessons after moving to Atlanta to help her brother open the club. Even with working a full-time job and raising her 7-yearold son, Smith still practices twice a week, in addition to playing weekend games. She touts that polo is a familyand animal-friendly environment. “Having a slight competitive spirit and love for horses, I found a perfect way to combine the two with polo,” says Smith. “Growing up on a working farm in Wisconsin and being the youngest of eight children, hard work was the only way to being a good ‘farmer.’ Polo is like farming in a whole different aspect, but with the same concepts. There are endless hours put into starting a Polo club, but seeing the payoff is rewarding.” Ella moved to Atlanta from Wisconsin in 2010 to help Steenlage with the opening of the club. The siblings, along with their brother Keith, worked hard to prepare the 26 acres of land in Canton; learning about irrigation, fertilization, aeration, weed control and mowing. Since its beginnings, Union Hill Polo Club’s team now has evolved to 15 active members. The spring and summer season has games on Sundays at 2 p.m. Visitors are invited to spectate, pack a picnic and tailgate before the game. With free admission, polo could become the new weekend afternoon tradition. Beyond the matches, Union Hill Polo Club rents out their facilities for corporate events, parties and bocce ball games, perfect for an outdoor event. And of course, any event rental includes a polo game. July 2016 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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Local. Convenient. Confidential.

888.892.8178 | dpwellnesscenter.com | 10700 State Bridge Rd. Johns Creek

THERE’S ONE THING WORSE THAN KNOWING YOU HAVE LUNG CANCER. NOT KNOWING.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death because often there are no symptoms until it has spread. The good news is a lung cancer screening can help detect it early when there are more treatment options. Northside Hospital Cancer Institute offers a low dose CT screening if you’re 55 – 80 years old and a current or previous smoker. It’s quick and easy and could save your life.

For information call 404-531-4444 or visit northside.com/lung

Where the Extraordinary Happens Every Day

Local Limelight

COOL MOVES ARTICLE ALEXA LAMPASONA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ith heating and cooling accounting for 50% of a home’s typical

between inside and outside temperatures when you are not home.

energy usage, it makes sense to take a look at how your home is

Also, recognize that the location of your thermostat makes a signif-

being cooled during one of our steamiest months. As the temperature

icant difference in controlling cooling and that moving thermostat

hovers around 89, Georgia Power recommends we set our thermostat at

location can improve comfort in many rooms.

78 degrees during the summer and leave it alone. Have your heating and cooling systems professionally serviced annually to keep them running at

• Look at the age of your air conditioning system. If your cooling sys-

top efficiency, too. We asked our friends at Milton Mechanical Services to

tem is more than 8 years old, it may be struggling to maintain cool-

chime in. For more than 10 years, Milton Mechanical Services has served

ing during the summer months. New cooling systems use digitally

the North Metro Atlanta area from their Alpharetta location. Owner Dr.

controlled variable speed blowers and compressors. This technol-

Kenneth Hughes brings a broad range of experiences to the company.

ogy allows systems to run at slower speeds for longer time periods,

He received a Ph.D. in chemistry from Purdue University and has worked

improving air filtration, as well as temperature, and humidity control.

in both academics and commercial venture groups on new clean energy,

This improved air quality helps protect your family’s respiratory

water, soil and air technologies. Just in time for summer, Dr. Hughes shares

health and your home’s furnishings. Additionally, refrigerant com-

tips on how to keep your home cool throughout the summer.

monly found in older cooling systems is not environmentally friendly and is in phase-out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

• Have a professional HVAC company perform regular maintenance

Refrigerant phase-out increases the cost of repairs and maintenance.

on your heating and cooling system. Optimized refrigerant levels, clean heat exchange coils and air filters allow your system to work at optimum efficiency, saving energy, and providing better cooling.

Milton Mechanical Services is staffed with a terrific team of technical specialists, license holders, duct work experts and customer service professionals. You can find company reps at the Alpharetta Farmers

• Increase the amount of insulation in your attic and use attic access

Market every Saturday morning, when they happily answer air con-

door covers. Many people complain that their upstairs bedrooms

ditioning, heating and home comfort questions. Ask them about new

do not stay cool even with the air conditioner running. Insulating

thermostats that provide for control of many home automation prod-

your attic to a minimum of R38 will improve upstairs cooling and

ucts including Wi-Fi controlled cameras, door locks and lighting sen-

help maintain the desired temperature.

sors, as well as sophisticated indoor air quality control technologies. Milton has completed many high profile projects, including several fire

• Install a programmable thermostat and learn how to use it. The

stations, the new Dekalb County IT building, and numerous community

most cost-effective thermostat settings minimize the difference

recreational and conference centers. MiltonMechanicalSvcs.com

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

Reception warmly welcomes you home.

A new fabric from Duette® honeycomb shades.

Soft texture, subtle beauty and energy efficiency. That’s what warmly greets you when you come home to Duette® honeycomb shades with new Reception fabric. Save energy, while making your spaces more inviting every day.

Classic Blinds & Shutters Design Center ~B

488 N Main St Ste 109 Alpharetta, GA M-F: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm 770-924-0282 www.classicblindsandshutters.com

Call today to schedule an in home consultation or stop by our beautiful showroom to see our new upholstery line and elegant farm house furniture.

Lifestyle Calendar

July

JULY 11-15, 18-22, 25-29 CAMP 2 COMMUNITY SUMMER SESSIONS ALPHARETTA'S NORTH PARK The North Metro Miracle League is sponsoring Camp2Community (C2C), a week-long summer camp aimed at providing meaningful life, social and vocational instruction while maintain-

SUNDAYS

ing the stress-free and fun environment of a typi-

SUNDAY FUNDAY!

cal summer camp. Campers will learn many valu-

UNION HILL POLO CLUB

able life skills throughout the week long curriculum.

Bring the whole family for a fun day out

Camp2Community.com

at the beautiful Union Hill Polo Club. Matches held every Sunday at 2 p.m.

JULY 15-17

Free admission. 770.351.7853

8TH ANNUAL ATLANTA BRAVES YOUTH BASEBALL CLASSIC

JULY

WILLIS PARK

ADULT CO-ED SOFTBALL

Presented by Bank of America, participating teams

TEAM REGISTRATION

will: Meet and take a team photo with a Braves play-

OCEE PARK

er, Receive 15 Outfield Pavilion tickets for the July 16th,

Adult participants age 18 and up register

Braves vs. Rockies game, Play a guaranteed three

now for all skill levels competitive slow

games, Receive an official Atlanta Braves Youth Base-

pitch softball. All teams participate in an

ball Classic T-shirt and Braves gift bag, Participate in

end-of-season single-elimination tour-

a pre-game parade at Turner Field on July 16.

nament. Season: Aug. 23 - Oct. 18. Game Days: Tuesday nights. Game Times: 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m., 9 p.m. Location: Ocee Park, field #4. Cost:

JULY 21-24

$450 per team. Info@JohnsCreekGa.gov / 678.512.3200

CREDO TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

JULY 4

ST. IVES COUNTRY CLUB Join in the 2nd Annual Credo Tennis Championships held at St. Ives

JULY 4TH FESTIVITIES &

Country Club, Johns Creek. First place team wins $10,000! This year's

FIREWORKS

event will benefit HOPE International in support of their mission to

WILLS PARK

invest in the dreams of families in the world's underserved communi-

The spectacular fireworks dis-

ties. HopeInternational.org

play begins at dusk! Entertain-

ment and children’s activities from 6 to 9 p.m. Food vendors will be located throughout the park from 6 to 10 p.m. Pets must be on leashes or in a crate. Small propane grills are allowed with a permit. To obtain a permit, call 678.297.6123. Fireworks will be displayed rain or shine.

JULY 7, 21 CORNHOLE FOR PRIZES!

JULY 25-29

ALPHARETTA FOOD TRUCK ALLEY

KIDS COOKING CAMP

Got skills in the fine art of bean-bag tossing? Local hydration sensa-

A&S CULINARY CONCEPTS

tion IVOLOGY will be awarding hydration coupons to people who stop

Your child will have fun in the kitchen with a staff of professional

by their tent and "toss like a

chefs. They will learn how to make their favorite rec-

champ" at Alpharetta Food

ipes and more, also learning proper kitchen safety,

Truck Alley.

including how to properly use a knife. Each day a different cuisine and technique are practiced. On Friday, parents are invited for a taste of the kids new skills. ASCulinaryConcepts.com

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

DiD you know? Your favorite

Lifestyle Publication

business directory

is on facebook!

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Golsen Denistry (770) 667-4855 golsendental.com

Connect with

us today

AND READ FEATURE ARTICLES,

VIEW SPECIAL OFFERS,

ENTER CONTESTS AND MORE!

FASHION & ACCESSORIES ShaneCo (678) 393-0701 ShaneCo.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DecisionPoint (888) 892-8178 dpwellnesscenter.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Williams & Williams Law Firm (770) 823-2711 wwattorneys.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Aesthetic Speciality Centre (770) 393-9000 asc-psd.com

Leisure Time Decks (404) 939-2201 ltdecks.com

Northside Hospital Forsyth (770) 844-3200 northside.com/forsyth

The Dump thedump.com

The Graivier Center (770) 772-0695 THEGRAIVIERCENTER.COM

Closets by Design Atlanta (770) 418-2112 closetsbydesign.com

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

LEGAL

IV-OLOGY Infusion Solutons (678) 840-9105 iv-ology.com

Atlas Pools (770) 451-3700 atlaspools.com

Sewell (404) 255-0604 subzero-wolf.com atlanta

Classic Blinds & Shutters (770) 924-0282 classicblindsandshutters.com

HOME SERVICES

facebook.com/AlpharettaLifestyle

Milton Mechanical (770) 360-1297 miltonhvac.com

Dream House Painting (678) 873-2821 dreamhousepainting.com

REAL ESTATE

Rhonda Shell / Keller Williams (678) 576-1914 kw.com/kw/agent/rhondashell

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Alpharetta Properties SUBDIVISION

LIST PRICE

SOLD

% LIST/SOLD

DOM*

BEDS

None

$1,479,000

$1,350,000

91%

Windward

$1,175,000

$1,095,000

93%

292

None

$1,099,000

$1,025,000

93%

Acreage- Lake Front

$850,000

$840,000

98%

Lakeside At Ansley

$847,500

100%

Heritage At Crabapple

$799,900

$841,046

105%

115

Lake At Cooper Sandy

$839,000

$795,000

94%

Nettlebrook Farms

$799,000

$775,000

97%

230

Lakeside At Ansley

$825,000

$790,000

95%

Highgrove

$799,000

$803,176

101%

Glen Abbey

$765,000

$775,000

101%

Providence at Atlanta National

$750,000

$725,000

96%

The Reserve At Mabry

$775,000

$710,000

92%

229

Adair Manor

$758,013

$724,900

95%

198

Oak Mills

$720,000

$682,500

95%

Eastgate

$695,777

$723,810

104%

208

Windward

$699,000

$671,000

95%

Seven Oaks

$699,000

$683,000

97%

Windward

$665,000

$615,000

92%

109

Eastgate

$580,629

$680,831

117%

127

Windward

$519,000

$498,000

96%

Windward

$499,000

$500,000

100%

MLS Statistics from 4/1/16 - 4/30/16. All information herein has not been verified and is not guaranteed.

Parting Thoughts

Front Porch Promises WORDS PAIGE SPOONER

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | July 2016

t has always been a dream of mine to have a front porch… a wrap-around porch, to be exact. I’ve often imagined myself sitting on an old wooden swing, lost in its comfy cushions, bare feet propped up on the porch railing while the setting sun warmed the deck below. Simple really. I’d lose myself in a good novel or finally work on that children’s book I promised to complete years ago. Maybe I could just sit and swing with my daughter and catch up on the latest college adventures, or, maybe, I’d watch my boys toss the football around while bringing them some ice water to cool them off (of course, I’d be drinking some sweet Southern iced tea with lemon.) I’d just soak up the simple summer moments on my front porch… Well, maybe I am being overly nostalgic. It is just a porch, after all. Maybe over the years I have over-glamorized this notion, but the thought brings me such comfort. Countless front porches adorn the homes of our neighborhood homes. Their silent invitations gently call out, “Come sit for a spell and relax.” I love how the flowing Boston ferns grace these porches like eyelashes batting their flirty eyes, luring us with their Southern charm. These carefree retreats speak to my very soul and bring about feelings of relaxation and calm I long for. They seem to suggest a lighter, less hectic way of living…a simpler way of thinking, transporting me to the past when time somehow ticked away at a slower pace, like a foreign clock with extra hours where people didn’t race from place to place in a hurried frenzy. Those days hold a unique value unlike today. I long to embrace it and pull it into my present and future, inhaling life one sweet breath at a time while savoring each meaningful passing moment. For me, this fixation with front porches began while swinging side-by-side with my precious grandmother, chatting about the days of old when the world was totally different. Her stories would mesmerize me, even though sometimes she didn’t get much further in her thoughts than how she’d ‘watered and tied up the horse.’ It was always amazing to think that I was sharing a moment of history from an era so unlike today. Her memories were rich with heritage, appreciation, sacrifice and hard work. Her life touched mine and it mattered to me. I can remember listening to her stories and promising myself to make my days count so that I’d have meaningful stories of my own to share with my grandkids someday. During those special times on my grandmother’s front porch, the sun would heat the wood planks below us. I loved the sensation on my feet. I felt safe… the constant repetition of the creaking, rusty chain which held up her wooden swing soothed me like a heartbeat soothes a baby in the womb. It’s a distinct and welcome sound that still makes me smile…a happy reminder of the past. I look around the porches of our Georgia paradise, so much more refined than my childhood memories on my grandmother’s modest front porch. On rare occasions, I actually catch a glimpse of people enjoying their space, but it is too seldom. Life these days just keeps us too busy and often prevents us from taking advantage of the simple stuff like just stopping to enjoy and breathe life in. We are too rushed to get to the next event on our calendars. Nevertheless, I still long for my kids to know that these are the places where memories are made, where beautiful stories are told. Real wisdom is taught in the arms of those we love when we seize the time to sit for a bit, listening to the calming stillness of yesterday. What a perfect time to connect with God, watch the rain, or soak up His splendor over a cup of coffee, or two. I wonder if God would speak to me on that front porch. Would He meet me there and share my thoughts? I wonder, too, if my swing would be filled with worthy memories to reveal when I’m older. I can almost hear that familiar sound as I write…tarnished chains creaking above a time-worn wooden swing, wind swaying it back and forth, back and forth…the sweet sound of front porch promises.

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