Atlanta Botanical Gardens

Continued from page to other botanical gardens nationwide, but this is their debut appearance.

Like most of our gardens this year, the ABG suffered from a deep freeze at the end of last December. Some plants didn’t make it, and some are very slowly recovering. However, this won’t affect a visitor’s enjoyment of the flourishing plentiful plants that survived.

A Japanese garden within the gardens is a place for quiet reflection and meditation, and there is a beautiful display of lights and music during the Christmas holidays. Orchids are on display inside the Fuqua Orchid Center, with annual special exhibits. The Longleaf Restaurant in ABG offers full-service dining and has excellent reviews.

Membership in ABG has many perks and special events, including discounts at the gift shop, cocktails in the garden, musical events, previews of exhibits, and classes for adults and children. It’s a lovely place for taking photos of weddings and other special events.

Part of the permanent collection, and one of my favorite features in the garden, is a very large sculpture called Earth Goddess. Her head is covered with different flowers and plants, changing with the seasons. There are also two large glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly in different parts of the gardens.

The Atlanta Botanical Gardens first opened in 1976, and there are two locations, 1345 Piedmont Avenue, NE, in Atlanta, and 911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA., which opened in 2015.

The Gainesville location is smaller, but is a little gem! The most recent exhibit, La Calavera Catrina, was there until August 27th. The exhibit featured nine large fiberglass sculptures of Mexican artists, including Frida Kahlo. Ricardo Soltero, an artist from Los Angeles, created these colorful sculptures. They represent Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, but it is a celebration of life, not death. These celebrations are part of Mexican and Latin American culture and include a celebration of the Monarch butterflies, which migrate to Mexico from Canada and the US every winter.

There is also a wonderful children’s garden and playground, including Fairytale Fridays at 11 a.m., where young children can come dressed as their favorite fairytale characters and participate in a fairytale parade.

More information at www.atlantabg.org allowing people from a wide range of financial backgrounds to get the care they need.

“We will financially support those in need whether they are with us in counseling for six months or two and a half years,” said Alexandra. “We don’t want finances to be the reason a person ends their therapy journey.”

Cumberland Counseling Centers is excited to be taking on new patients and offering as much help as they can to tackle financial obstacles. In 2022, the center gave away $45,000 in scholarships. Alexandra estimates that number will be doubled for 2023.

One way Cumberland Counseling Centers is able to provide these scholarships is through partnerships and donations. For instance, on October 7th, they will host their annual Fun Run and Fall Festival, which is open to anyone who wants to attend. Those who are able to make it out will enjoy a day of food trucks, popcorn, cotton candy, and, of course, the one mile fun run (or walk, if you prefer). The proceeds of this event will go to the scholarship fund, and businesses and individuals alike are encouraged to participate. Cumberland Counseling has even committed to helping market those businesses who are able to sponsor part of the event as a way to thank them for their help and participation. Check out cumberlandcounselingcenters.org/fundraiser to learn how you can sign up for this fantastically fun fall event!

Partnership with churches and non-profit organizations within the community is not just limited to special events. Alexandra and her team are always open to creating new partnership with local churches or other faith-based organizations who are passionate about being a leader in community healthcare.

And for those churches or other organizations that are interested in having mental health services for their attendees, they only have to reach out and ask. Cumberland Counseling Centers has created a system that allows churches to use their existing model to build on what the church already has. Alexandra’s vision is to link arms with these churches and help them develop mental health service offerings that complement each individual church or organization.

“We want to supplement what churches are already doing—we don’t want to take over,” said Alexandra. “We just want to help them serve their community and handle the details so they can focus on loving those around them.”

If you need mental health services or want to find a way to bring those services to more people, Cumberland Counseling Centers is ready and waiting. Check out their website for more information on how you can get involved in helping Gwinnett become a leader in mental health resources. More information at https://cumberlandcenters.org/ or (404) 884-8247

Child’s Birthday Continued from page 10

dren can try their hand at carnival-style games or host a friendly talent show where everyone can showcase their unique skills. The key is to keep the activities engaging and inclusive for all ages.

5. Capture the Memories: Don’t forget to document the special moments throughout the celebration. Hire a professional photographer or set up a DIY photo booth with props and costumes for guests to enjoy. Create a memory jar where everyone can write a favorite memory or wish for the birthday child. You can also create a personalized photo album or scrapbook as a keepsake filled with pictures and heartfelt messages from the guests.

With these five creative tips, you’re well on your way to planning a birthday celebration that your child will remember for years to come. Remember, the most critical element is the love and care you put into making this day extraordinary. Tailor the celebration to your child’s unique interests, engage the imagination, and focus on creating a joyful and inclusive experience for all. Embrace the joy and wonder of childhood, and enjoy every moment of celebrating your child’s special day! And from all of us here at OUR TOWN... happy birthday to your little one! May the day be filled with laughter, love, and beautiful memories.