Johns Creek, GA July 2023

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Hello friends,

Isn't summer the best? On the first day of summer vacation last month, my neighborhood was flooded with tweens trying to squeeze every moment out of their new-found freedom. Sporting short shorts and ponytails, the girls appeared confident and in the midst of the time of their lives. The boys, well, seemed awkward and goofy.  Some will find their footing this summer and hopefully, they all will feel the lightness and laughter of summer this month.

Everyone needs a summer vacation, staying up late watching the stars pop out and indulging in things that make us feel good. I'm thinking, more ice cream, more time on the water fishing or paddling and more time with old friends sharing a meal.

Enjoy this issue and have a super sweet summer!

xo

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde | stacy.conde@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Costa, Catherine James

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy Jo Photography, Jolie Loren

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Sun’s out, Gum’s out.

DENTAL APPOINTMENTS SHOULD BE INFORMATIVE AND ENJOYABLE!

YOU CAN TRUST THAT EVERY TIME YOU LEAVE OUR OFFICE, YOU’LL FEEL BETTER FOR HAVING STOPPED BY!

OUR GOALS AT NORTH ATLANTA FAMILY DENTISTRY

It’s pretty simple: We want to help our patients and our community get and keep a beautiful, healthy smile! Our skilled and experienced team of dentists, assistants, hygienists, and office staff work together to achieve this goal, giving our patients the time and individualized care they need to achieve healthy teeth and gums.

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

SCAN TO CHECK OUT OUR NON-PROFIT TOGETHER WE SMILE

WHETHER YOU’VE BEEN A PATIENT FOR YEARS OR YOU’RE NEW TO NAFD, WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU FOR YOUR NEXT VISIT!

Tina Marie Carder joins DutchCrafters

DutchCrafters , the leading retailer of Amish furniture, has named Tina Marie Carder manager of their showroom in Alpharetta. Carder began her career in e-commerce and retail store management. Prior to that, she trained and worked in hotel management where she discovered her passion for excellent customer service and quality guest experiences. Eleven years of experience and outstanding people skills gave Carder the right combination of talents for this position. DutchCrafters.com

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek

Who's Got Style?

For our September STYLE issue, we want to know about your family's signature style. Send us a family photo of everyone dressed to the nines, along with your names and a paragraph about what drives your choices. Are you sporty, serious, sassy or classy? Tell us more! Email our editor Sue with your photo(s), family names and a little about your family and where you shop locally. Have fun with it and submit by July 15. We SEE you, Johns Creek! SCollins@CityLifestyle.com

Schools News

Northview High School celebrates its third U.S. Presidential Scholar in school history, senior Aira Dani (pictured), one of only four selected from Georgia. Two Findley Oaks Elementary School fifth graders were congressional district winners of the Stock Market Game at the Georgia Council on Economic Education. State champions River Trail Middle School Academic Quiz Bowl Team traveled to Chicago for the Middle School National Championship competition, earning second place.

Summer Fun Tour

Where to find your summer smile nearby this month.

1. TIKI TIME

Halcyon’s Cherry Street Brewpub invites the community to celebrate the summer season at its pop-up tiki bar. Throughout July, guests can soak up the tropical vibes while sipping on a cocktail and enjoying tasty bites, without the hassle of traveling to a tropical island. Cocktails and mocktails. Cherry Street at Halcyon 6640 Town Square, Alpharetta CherryStreetBrewing.com

2. MARGS ALL MONTH

Cool off with this summer at Los Abuelos Mexican Grill with a refreshing Millonaria Fresca Margarita. Made with only the highest quality ingredients including Tequila Centenario Reposado, agave nectar, fresh lime juice, Gran Gala, and a splash of fresh orange juice. Enjoy the perfect summer drink, with a warm welcome from owner Tito Gonzales and his team. 5710 State Bridge Rd  LosAbuelosMexGrill.com

3. FAMILY DINNERS

The Amish Jefferson Contemporary Trestle Dining Table from DutchCrafters spins a cool modern look, fitting seamlessly with minimal contemporary lines and decor. Trestle tables are one of the oldest styles of tables, and they draw added attention with their grand bases. The Jefferson base creates interesting angles that modern kitchens and dining rooms love. 160 N Main St, Alpharetta  DutchCrafters.com

4. MAKE TIME FOR BRUNCH

Be sure your summer journey includes Yifan Central Kitchen’s rotating weekly brunch. Each meal is a symphony of diverse small dishes, a culinary adventure changing every week. Join owner Fan Wang at Yifan’s, savor their local love, and make your summer sing with each delightful, ever-changing bite. 11455 Lakefield Dr Suite 500  YifanCooking.com

5. SWEETS AND TREATS

Experience a sweet extravaganza and indulge in handcrafted ice cream, delectable cookie dough, luscious chocolates, gourmet popcorn, delicate macarons, and a delightful variety of candies at My Gourmet Parlor. The shop is a paradise for all dessert lovers. Treat yourself to a world of flavors and satisfy your cravings this summer. 10995 State Bridge Road # B1 MyGourmetParlor.com

6. SUMMER’S BEST

What says summer more than fresh strawberries and ice cream? The signature strawberry dessert at Seven Sisters Kitchen features house-baked scones, vanilla ice cream and macerated strawberries. “Whip cream optional,” say owners/sisters Hala Yassine and Farrah Haidar.  6955 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Ste. 107 7SKitchen.com

Our Hometown Summer

The Johns Creek Recreation and Parks team has been hard at work planning the best summer ever! See you around town!

• Independence Day Celebration—Join the July 3rd annual Independence Day Celebration, complete with food, music, and fireworks. Grab a spot on the Lacrosse Field with a home-packed picnic or enjoy delicious fresh food from a food truck. Live music from Boogilicious, a fireworks extravaganza!

• Movies in the Park Friday, July 14 -  DC League of Super Pets (PG) will grace the screen at Newtown Park. Movies at the Park are free and include preshow entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. Activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, games, giveaways, and music.

• Adaptive Recreation Bingo - Join Bingo Night! Parents are encouraged to drop off young adults to enjoy an evening of bingo, pizza, drinks, prizes and fun! There is no cost to attend. Adaptive Recreation provides social and recreational opportunities for Johns Creek children and young adults with

disabilities, along with their families and friends. The programs provide residents with opportunities for new experiences, enhanced self-esteem, and to promote community involvement.

• Free Outdoor Fitness Series at Newtown Park is a great way to stay healthy, active, and have fun! Certified instructors teach these popular classes. All fitness levels are welcome. Classes are held Saturday – Thursday and include: yoga, barre, Zumba, and H.I.I.T., strength training, and cardio strength. Classes run through November!

Johns Creek Recreation and Parks enriches the quality of life for the Johns Creek community by providing a variety of recreational, educational and wellness programs. They maintain over 400 acres of parkland and nature reserve, including five access points to the Chattahoochee River. We encourage you to take a stroll, join a class, catch an outdoor concert, or just take some time to enjoy one of our most important assets, our parks.

Summer Vacation

HARD-WORKING DOCS CELEBRATE FAMILY AND INDEPENDENCE DAY

Meet Shawn Tritt

My name is Shawn Tritt and I grew up in Dunwoody. I attended the University of Georgia and the Medical College of Georgia, followed by a residency at the Mayo Clinic and the University of Virginia. I’m now the Chief Medical Officer and an anesthesiologist at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. My professional passions include helping patients feel at ease when going into surgery (a very nerve-racking event for most!), advancing quality and safety for our patients, and improving the experience of all physicians and staff. I am married to the love of my life, Tova, and we have three wonderful children: Leighton, Emerson, and Paxton. My perfect July Fourth would be spent having fun outside with my family and catching up on comedy shows and movies. I look forward to meeting you at Emory Johns Creek!

Meet Jan Gunn

My name is Jan Gunn, PA-C, Lead APP in the Emergency Department at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. I grew up in Augusta, Georgia. After high school, I moved to Atlanta and attended Georgia State University for my undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry. In 2006, I moved to Savannah to attend South University and earn my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. When that was completed, I moved to Forsyth County and began working in a family practice office. I spent nearly 7 years at that office and enjoyed becoming part of and helping to improve my patients’ lives. During that time, I grew as a person and as a family, adding my husband Daniel, and our wonderful children, Celeste and Griffin. Looking for a change and a faster pace, I transitioned to the Emory Johns Creek Emergency Department where I have continued to work for almost 11 years. I have always enjoyed my time in the Emergency Department because we are getting to help members of our community in their times of greatest need.

One of our favorite family holidays is Independence Day. It is the middle of the summer when we’ve been having fun and spending more time together without school and the extracurricular activities that seem to have us constantly running during the rest of the year. Our church, Salem Baptist Church, usually has Summer Revival during that week, so we’re feeling refreshed and renewed with our faith and fellowship. And then we get to celebrate a holiday for our country, full of food, friends, and fireworks. How could things get any better?

“I have always enjoyed my time in the Emergency Department because we are getting to help members of our community in their times of greatest need.”

LIFE ON THE RIVER

A little-known fact about our city is that the country’s 22nd most visited national park runs through our backyard. Fortyeight glorious miles of the Chattahoochee River and 7,000 surrounding acres of land make up the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Ten miles of the river and two parks—Jones Bridge Park and Abbotts Bridge Recreation Area—border Johns Creek.

Shady tree canopies, lush greenery, wildflower beds and the rushing oasis that is the Chattahoochee make up the park’s bustling ecosystem. With abundant surroundings and countless pastimes, the river accommodates everyone. Spend a morning of solitude and meditation along the banks, get creative with a date night under the stars, or embark on an afternoon family trek through the great outdoors. We couldn’t think of a better spot to get lost this summer.

Moving the summer fun from the pool to the river has plenty of benefits. It’s a great way to beat the Georgia heat, with average temperatures beside the river 20 degrees cooler than usual. Plus, stepping out of the ever-present digital landscape and into the natural one can do wonders for one’s mind, body and soul.

“The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a resource for the entire community to utilize for their mental and physical well-being,” says Graham Dorian, president and chair of the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy.

So get out, start exploring and curb the summertime boredom that’s already sneaking into households. Between our city’s two national recreation areas and the Chattahoochee Nature Center, the options for exploration are endless. Just decide if you want to adventure on the water or land and go from there.

ON THE WATER:

Float:  Rafts, canoes, kayaks, motorboats and swimmers are welcome on the Chattahoochee River. There are a few different ways to “Shoot the Hooch.” Use your equipment or purchase a rental and put in at a nearby boat ramp or park for a solo adventure. Check the river flow rate anytime you float without an expert to ensure safe water conditions.

Or, spend less time planning and more time on the water with group expeditions at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Choose from family canoe days, river trips, date nights on the river and more to customize your float to your needs.

EQUIPMENT RENTALS AND EXCURSIONS NEARBY

Fish: While any section of the river brims with fish, there are a few key spots to cast off. Fly fishing is most

SHOOT THE HOOCH: Tube, kayak and raft rentals.

3444 Cobb PKWY SE, Atlanta

HIGH COUNTRY OUTFITTERSPADDLE SHACK:  Paddleboard and kayak rentals. 200 Morgan Falls Rd Sandy Springs

BETWEEN OUR CITY’S TWO NATIONAL RECREATION AREAS AND THE CHATTAHOOCHEE NATURE CENTER, THE OPTIONS FOR EXPLORATION ARE ENDLESS. JUST DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO ADVENTURE ON THE WATER OR LAND AND GO FROM THERE.

prevalent at Jones Bridge Park due to its sandy shoals, while the Bowman’s Island unit beside Buford Dam has some of the best trout fishing in its deep, cold water. All fishing along the Chattahoochee is catch and release.

ON THE LAND:

Hike: The cooler temperatures beside the river make a stroll along the Chattahoochee one of the most comfortable summertime hikes in metro Atlanta. Plus, the forest comes alive with the colors of flora and fauna all summer long. Bluebirds, yellow daisies and even majestic bald eagles are common wildlife sightings.

Seek:  Uncover the river’s hidden gems with various educational programming, expeditions and wildlife encounters at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Little ones can come face-to-face with butterflies, meet a beekeeper or hear a story on the river. At the same time, adults can enjoy an outdoor performance with a drink in hand, peruse the summer gallery or spend a romantic evening on the river.

No matter your pleasure, summertime in Johns Creek should be spent on the river.

NANTAHALA OUTDOOR

CENTER - ROSWELL OUTPOST:

Tube, paddleboard, kayak, canoe and raft rentals and tours.

203 Azalea Dr, Roswell

NATIONAL PARK CONSERVANCY

The Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy is the official friend's group and primary philanthropic partner of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. All funding supports our national park by improving and maintaining trails and facilities and providing stewardship through educational, volunteer and outreach programs.  Contribute to the cause by volunteering, keeping the park clean or donating at ChattahoocheeParks.org

Have you tried the newest brew to hit the neighborhood? Helen Yeah is a laidback golden ale that pays homage to the charming Bavarian-themed town of Helen, Georgia, situated along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Fifteen percent of the proceeds from each sale will go toward Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s cleanup and water-quality monitoring programs in the headwaters of the Chattahoochee.

“Being raised as a steward to the environment, preserving this beauty has become a mission point for our company in the form of sustainability. This, combined with our passion for philanthropy, has brought us to a wonderful partnership with our local water leaders, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper,” says Nick Tanner, Founder and Brewmaster at Cherry Street. “Considering our brewery water, as well as most of Atlanta’s water, comes from the Chattahoochee River, it is vital for the conservation of this stretch

of water for food/water sources and recreation. Aligning ourselves with organizations that believe in the same conservation as we do, like Orvis, will help get us closer to keeping cleaner waters for all.”

Cherry Street Brewing Company has partnered with Orvis to craft a special beer called Helen Yeah—the official beer of a cleaner Chattahoochee River—which supports conservation efforts in the North Georgia Mountains. This collaboration not only highlights the importance of protecting our natural resources, but also demonstrates how businesses can join forces for a greater cause. By teaming up with Orvis, a company dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship, the goal is to make a positive impact on North Georgia’s picturesque waterways.

Cherry Street Brewing opened its doors to the taproom on 12/12/12 in partnership with Rick Tanner’s Grill in Vickery Village.

In 2010, Nick Tanner took the homebrewing skills he cultivated in college in Colorado to the next level when he returned to Georgia with a business plan and an idea. He worked with the Forsyth County commissioners to put laws in the books to make Cherry Street Brewing the first legal craft beer brewery in Forsyth County in 2012. Today, they proudly partner with CRK.

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK) pledges to celebrate all of the communities within the Chattahoochee Watershed that rely on a forever clean and sustainable Chattahoochee River. From fly shops to outfitters, guide services, craft breweries, and more, the Quality Hooch Campaign aims to raise funds to support CRK’s Trash-Free Chattahoochee program and the Becca Sue Klein All Kids Fish annual events.

Chattahoochee.org

CherryStreetBrewing.com

picnics & pairings

CREATE A LIVELY, NUTRITIOUS, AND TASTY SENSATION AT YOUR NEXT COZY PICNIC

Have you been eyeing a breathtaking view or a luscious green patch near a waterscape? For special times with your favorite people, nothing says warm weather fun like a picnic. Follow these tips and tried-and-true recipes for preparation ideas and tasty drink pairings to go with a flavor-filled, all-in-one bowl meal.

ARTICLE BY KIM COSTA

Ambiance:

Throw pillows are a must.  Pull them from your couches or invest in outdoor pillows that can be used repeatedly.  A large throw is also essential to protect from moist ground and grass stains.  Bring your favorite tunes with one of the many available portable speakers or unplug and enjoy the sounds of nature. Cut flowers add a wow factor.

Gear:

You don’t have to own a picnic basket to have a picnic. But if you do bring a basket, make sure to have some way to chill your perishables and drinks. Reusable silverware, plastic wine or drink cups, and plates often come with a picnic basket set, but can also be purchased separately. Keeping it elegant, but easy (and cool) is the key!

Accompaniments:

A cheese plate with fruit is the perfect start to your picnic fare. As with the cheese, your drink selections should coordinate with the main dish. For salads, pair accoutrements with the dressing in mind. This lemony herb vinaigrette dressing goes well with smooth cheeses and tart beverages such as lemonade, prosecco, or sauvignon blanc.

Enjoy your perfect picnic!

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

ingredients:

MARINADE/DRESSING

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons water

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

• 2 teaspoons dried basil

• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• cracked pepper, to taste

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, trimmed

SALAD:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce leaves, washed and dried

• 1 large cucumber diced

• 2 Roma tomatoes diced

• 1 red onion sliced

• 1 avocado sliced

• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (optional)

• lemon wedges to serve

• 1/2 cup feta cheese

instructions:

1. Whisk together all the marinade/dressing ingredients in a large jug. Pour out half of the marinade into a large, shallow dish. Refrigerate the remaining marinade to use as the dressing later.

2. Add the chicken to the marinade in the bowl. Marinate chicken for 15-30 minutes (or up to two hours in the refrigerator if time allows). While waiting for the chicken, prepare all the salad ingredients and mix in a large salad bowl.

3. Once chicken is ready, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a grill pan or a grill plate over medium-high heat. Grill chicken on both sides until browned and completely cooked through.

4. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes and slice.  Arrange over salad. Just before eating, drizzle salad with the remaining untouched dressing. Serve with lemon wedges.

Recipe from Cafedelights.com

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

ANY DAY Free Workout

11130 STATE BRIDGE RD STE: E101- JOHNS CREEK

Bags & Barbells offers a free workout to readers. Open 5 days a week. Book your workout at BagsAndBarbells.net

THROUGHOUT JULY

Tiki Pop Up Bar @ Cherry Street Halcyon

CHERRY STREET HALCYON

Beat that summer heat with Cherry Street Halcyon’s pop-up tiki bar! Featuring tropical-themed beer, cocktails, and food specials. Make sure to follow @cherrystreethalcyon on Instagram to stay up to date on new information. CherryStreetBrewing.com

JULY 3RD

Summer Concert Series: Boogilicious MARK BURKHALTER

AMPHITHEATER AT NEWTOWN PARK | 6:00 PM

Food trucks will be on-site. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. to allow for the public to set up chairs/blankets. The music begins at 7 p.m. Seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis. Concerts are rain or shine!

Full Service Outdoor Specialist

JULY 4TH Independence

Day Celebration

NEWTOWN PARK | 6:00 PM

Celebrate our country’s independence at Newtown Park with live music, activities, food, and an exceptional fireworks display! Beer, wine, and sangria will be for sale. Top off the night with a fireworks extravaganza! Fireworks will begin after sunset.

JULY 14TH

Summer Movies at the Park

NEWTOWN PARK | 7:00 PM DC League of Super Pets (PG). A free summer outdoor series of family-friendly movies is presented on a huge inflatable screen. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children’s activities, giveaways, and music. Free to attend! Families are encouraged to bring blankets and relax as they watch the movie. No alcohol or pets, please.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek

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Emory Johns Creek Hospital is committed to our community.

We’ve added two floors to the hospital, three floors to the Physicians Plaza and a parking deck, all to better serve you and your family. The new areas provide physicians, nurses and our care teams an interdisciplinary space to focus on family-centered care and ongoing wellness, supporting you with the unparalleled service and knowledgeable professionals you’ve come to expect.