My East Cobb 0521-0621

East Cobb

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Date Night Ideas, Food Faves, Doing Good in the ’Hood & lots more

Your EZ Guide to Neighborhood Home Improvement Resources p. 11

Meet Your Neighbors

An Environmental Philanthropist, Twin Co-Captains, and an Aspiring Writer

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Scenic Mountain Living Nestled just outside the charming downtown of Blue Ridge, Georgia, this understated, mountain-lifestyle community offers magnificent views, fly-fishing and one of the best golf experiences in the Southeast. p. 14

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Ready for new floors?

Here’s a quick quiz to help you find the best flooring for you: In what room will you replace the flooring? a. Living room b. Bedroom c. Kitchen d. Bathroom What is most important to you? a. A timeless look that won’t go out of style b. Flooring that is comfortable, soft, and warm c. Flooring that is easy to take care of d. Durability How many kids and pets (combined total) live in your home? a. 0 b. 1-2 c. 3-5 d. 6 or more Is moisture a concern? a. No, the floor will not be exposed to water b. Only if I had a flood c. Sometimes the floor will get wet d. Water gets on the floor every day What is your budget? a. $$$ b. $ c. $$ d. $$$$ What factors would make you choose professional installation versus doing it yourself? a. I’m making an investment and I want the job done right by a professional. b. I need a professional because I don’t have the right tools. c. My floor is uneven and I don’t know how to correct the problem. I need an expert’s help. d. A professional crew that does this every day can do it much quicker than I could.

Tally up your answers. If you got more of this letter: Mostly As: Hardwood floors are a great choice for you. This option is beautiful and timeless but requires more care than other flooring.

Mostly Bs: Carpet is for you. It is budget friendly and cozy.

Mostly Cs: Luxury vinyl or laminate is what you should look at. The perks include being scratch resistant, water resistant, and both products offer an array of great wood and tile visuals to choose from.

Mostly Ds: Ceramic/porcelain tile is what you need. The durability and fact that it is waterproof make it the best choice for a bathroom.

This article is brought to you by Enhance Floors & More | 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

BEST OF

2020

BEST FLOORING STORE/COMPANY

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“Leading The Way”

“Safe & Social”

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Best of Cobb 2019 – 2021 Retirement & Assisted Living

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Fully vaccinating all residents should be celebrated as a huge milestone. And the fact that you are a direct provider and can offer shots here on site is a testament to “going beyond” for us.

Living here has been a Godsend compared to our old home as we feel safe and are staying physically and mentally active with so many friends. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” Dee and Hart W.

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From the Founder Positive Changes!

Hopefully, soon, COVID-19 will be in our rearview mirror and not such a huge part of our daily lives.

Even after it’s no longer a public health crisis, I believe we will be reflecting on how it has changed our lives forever. Some of these changes have been for the better, like the chance to develop deeper connections with family members and no longer taking for granted how much we need our neighbors, community and humanity to thrive.

Now we can finally start tending to those connections once again and start enjoying some human interaction. Check out our May/June Calendar of Events on p. 12 to see what’s going on beyond your four walls. Enjoy some outdoor yoga at The Battery, take in some live music at East Cobb Park or shop for some new home décor at the Atlanta Home Show! While not as abundant with things to do pre-pandemic, it’s a start! And we would love to hear from you about what’s going on so we can make sure the calendar grows over the next few months.

One of the positive changes we can announce is that we have grown and now bring you My East Cobb six times a year! (Previously, it was only four.) Copies of our magazine are mailed to homes in East Cobb neighborhoods each month, plus you can find copies at 250+ local business locations, including Whole Foods. All of our issues can be found online at atlantabestmedia.com.

myEast Cobb MY

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FOUNDER Sherri Adair PUBLISHER Patti Stephens ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER David Leonard EDITOR Cory Olesen ART DIRECTOR Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION A.J. Weston MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER Wyndi Kappes MEDIA CONSULTANTS – PRINT/DIGITAL Dawn DeSantis ddesantis@atlantabestmedia.com Amy Smith asmith@atlantabestmedia.com SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT/ NORTH ATLANTA REGION Witt Beckman witt@atlantabestmedia.com OFFICE MANAGER Gail Sawyer CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer Colosimo Square Frame Media

Stay Healthy. Have Fun! For print, web, email and digital advertising information, contact us at:

Sherri Adair, Founder

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bes be stself my Alpharetta February/March 2021

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F EEL G O O D • L O O K G O O D • D O G OOD

Home Pros Offer Solutions For Everyday Needs p. 29

Date Night Ideas, Curbside Cuisine, Doing Good in the ’Hood & lots more

ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

2021 Kitchen & Bath Planner

Timely Trends

9

products to help keep your space spotless p. 22

Here Comes the Sun

p. 55

Busting 5 myths about going solar p. 17

2020 WINNERS

Find A Pro

of

Visit us at AtlantaHomeImprovement.com for 100s of resources

You voted.

Meet the winners! p. 13

Meet Our Partners in Health

Recipes and advice to keep your ticker in top-shape p. 38

Celebrating Love Your Best Love Life Yet!

Read what the experts have to say about dating over 40 p. 30

Meet Your Neighbors

Nestled just outside the charming downtown of Blue Ridge, GA, this understated, mountain-lifestyle community offers magnificent views, fly-fishing and one of the best golf experiences in the Southeast. p. 22

A Golf Community in the Mountains, a Smile Expert, and a Financial Planner

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Meet 2021's

INSPIRING INNOVATORS UNDER 40

Announcing Our

2020 Kitchen & Bath Design Winners

An Expert Electrician and an Appliance Showroom Superstar

my East Cobb my Buckhead 11/4/20 3:49 PM

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Meet Your Neighbors

Certified in Talent

Breaking the blue-collar stereotype, TE Certified founder Josh Brooker only brings on top talent to his team of passionate professionals servicing homes across the metro Atlanta area. p. 18

Read the stories of 10 incredible Atlantans and how they’re shaking up the realms of business, food, fashion, health and more. p. 51

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I M P R O V E M E N T ATLANTA

Atlanta Moms talk about navigating the choppy waters of parenting p. 46

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Design CONTEST

Chosen by You! p. 32

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Kim Cooper shares her story of finding love and marriage with the same man twice p. 35

2020

KITCHEN BATH

Date Night Ideas, Holiday Fun, Doing Good in the ’Hood & lots more

The Messiness of Motherhood

Reunited Love

Scenic Mountain Living

PLUS, Home Service Pros Offer Solutions For Everyday Needs p. 30

Eating Healthy Makes the Heart Grow Stronger

Follow their discussions on sleep, skin, men's health and more p. 11

F A M I LY • M Y

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Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above.

Atlanta Best Media does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising.

Atlanta Best Media reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.

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FEBRUARY – APRIL 2020

MY EAST COBB

MARCH/APRIL 2021 | ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM

Whimsical Wonderland

DECKS & MORE P. 22

PEOPLE THEIR PETS& p. 27 SOUTHEASTERN UNDERDECK SYSTEMS P. 30 AND DECKS & MORE P. 22

Meet Your Neighbors

Meet Decks & More, Southeastern Underdeck Systems and More Award-Winning Contractors p. 21

A Pediatric Dentist and a Sports Innovator

The 2021 Landscape Planner – Create Your Oasis 25 Simple Home Projects | All About Rain Gardens | Find it Local | Find a Pro

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Date Night Ideas, Food Faves, and Home & Garden

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4279 Roswell Rd., NE., Ste. 208, #217 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x15 FAX (404) 303-0030

Dr. Azi Nia creates a playful environment for her patients with a focus on preventative and protective care at Nia Pediatric Dentistry. p. 20

Spring/Summer

G d-For-You

Getaways

29

Spring Fun Calendar

Franklin Fair, Taste of East Cobb, Marietta Greek Festival, and More p. 18-19 3/20/18 10:38 AM

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WHERE TO GO for Date Nights, Food Faves, Home & Garden, and lots more

2020

A Paradise for Pampering Nancy Shim offers men and women a sanctuary for self-care.

Her talented team provides first-rate lash extensions, hairstyling, nail care and more. p. 20

Meet Your Neighbors

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Why trust your face to just anyone…

the face Is I aLL I Do!

Dr. Burke Robinson is an Award Winning, Double Board Certified Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with 29 years of experience dedicated exclusively to FACIAL cosmetic surgery.

YOUR BEAUTY ENHANCED Dr. Robinson has devoted his life to helping people transform their dream look into a beautiful reality. Widely known for his genuine compassion and deep commitment to providing the utmost in surgical care, safety, and results, Dr. Robinson has become one of the most trusted cosmetic surgeons in the Atlanta area.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAWYER PHOTOGRAPHY

With over 29 years of experience, his finely honed aesthetic sensibility and in-depth knowledge of the anatomy of the face allows him to bring the facial features of his patients into balance. Dr. Robinson has the skill and experience necessary to revitalize your face with natural-looking results that reflect the way you feel inside.

BURKE ROBINSON, M.D., F.A.C.S

Double Board Certified Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon As Published In:

MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

2020 2020

2013-2021

2016-2020

2013-2020

2013-2021

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

2018-2020

2017-2020

2020

2018-2020

2008-2021

2009-2021

2016-2020

2016

Top 100

770.667.3090 | www.robinsonfps.com

MY EAST COBB

FACELIFT - UPPER & LOWER EYELIDS - RHINOPLASTY (NOSE RESHAPING) - REVISION RHINOPLASTY - BROWLIFT CHIN AUGMENTATION - CHEEK AUGMENTATION - OTOPLASTY (EAR SURGERY) - FACIAL REJUVENATION WITH COSMETIC FILLERS

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C NTENTS Meet Your Neighbors Mountain Beauty

Old Toccoa Farm

offers solitude at your doorstep and easy access to the small town charm of Blue Ridge. p. 14

Environmentalist

Lynn Bridges McCray

Hey East Cobb 4 From the Founder

’Hood Goodness

Oh My!

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MY EAST COBB

Hello, East Cobb Neighbors!

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My East Cobb Home Pros

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My Home Q&A

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Your EZ Guide to Neighborhood Home Improvement Resources

Home service pros provide solutions for your everyday needs.

My Family

At the Heart of the ’Hood

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GATHER THE FAMILY AND BRING YOUR PICNIC BASKETS FOR SUNDAY FUNDAY AT EAST COBB PARK.

’Hood Winks

Nod to Your Neighbors

My Calendar of Events

Enjoy the ’Hood

Food Faves

Tried and True or New to You

Doing Good in the ’Hood Lend a Hand to Local Causes

PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD TOCCOA FARM, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SQUARE FRAME MEDIA; (MCCRAY) PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAWYER PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKEUPBY BOB STEELE SALON.

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is a 2020 Over 40 & Fabulous!

Super Six winner who works closely with the nonprofit Eco Sneakers (.ORG), an organization that keeps gently used shoes out of landfills by donating them to the homeless. p. 17

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Schedule a Private Showroom Consultation 1452 Northside Drive, Atlanta GA 30318 404.383.0160 drexlershowerdoor.com

When It Comes To Your Loved One,

Everything Matters!

Call today and find out how you will be Safer At Home With Us and Schedule a Personal Tour!

470-719-1165

9 Sherwood Ln, NE | Marietta, GA 30067 | www.phoenixsrliving.com

MY EAST COBB

PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD TOCCOA FARM, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SQUARE FRAME MEDIA; (MCCRAY) PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAWYER PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKEUPBY BOB STEELE SALON; (SANFORD) KRYS ALEX PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKE UP BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY.

Crafting the Perfect Fit

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NEW CLIENT WELCOME OFFER

TWO WEEKS OF UNLIMITED YOGA FOR $20 W W W. P E AC H O U T P O W E R YO GA . C O M 3162 JOHNSON FERRY ROAD, SUITE 440

of

2019 WINNER

my East Cobb

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Dr. Azi Nia

MY EAST COBB

Board Certified Pediatirc Dentist Nia Pediatric Dentistry 1111 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068 770.479.9999 www.NiaDentistry.com

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’Hood Winks Nod

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neighbors

DATE NIGHT IN EAST COBB Amp up traditional Topgolf target practice with a date night at Good Game powered

by Topgolf Swing Suite. Interactive

zombie dodgeball, soccer, hockey shots and baseball are made even better

vodka and gin they’ll distill on site.

900 Battery Ave. SE., Ste. 1035. aswdistillery.com

Ready for entertainment that’s a little bit spooky, but a whole lot of fun for the entire family?

On the

black-lit 18-hole mini golf course at Monster Mini Golf, putters of all ages revel in a glow-in-thedark, virtual reality atmosphere teeming with vibrant pop culture artwork.

2505 Chastain Meadows Pkwy. NW. monsterminigolf.com

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by cool cocktails, handcrafted bites and your choice of great company.

875 Battery Ave. SE., Ste. 700. goodgameatl.com Romantic date night meets creative couples therapy? The East Cobb brewery, Ironmonger Brewing Company, offers

competitive axe throwing sessions for fun entertainment along with tasty flights of craft draughts.

2129 NW. Pkwy. SE., Ste. 105. ironmongerbrewing.com Fancy a romantic stroll after dining on Roswell’s Canton Street? Set the mood by taking in the outdoor photo exhibition, “Roswell In Print: We Are Forward Thinking,” which features beautiful

Treat your body, mind and soul this spring with the Wellness Series at The Battery Atlanta.

Yoga presented by Kaiser Permanente meets Monday evenings for free,

socially distanced power stretching.

Space is limited, so register online and if you’re still hanging out at home, join virtually via Facebook Live and let the sense of centering community commence!

775 Battery Ave. SE. batteryatlyoga.eventbrite.com

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photography works strung outside along the path to city hall.

The exhibit will be on display through May 31. 38 Hill St. roswellartsfund.org

MY EAST COBB

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) ASW DISTILLERY; (BOTTOM LEFT) MONSTER MINI GOLF - MARIETTA, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES CORTINA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) THE BATTERY ATLANTA.

ASW Distillery has grown!

In March, a brand-new facility opened at The Battery featuring a tasting room, space for private events, a production room, small-batch bottling operation and an immersive cocktail list, plus a new

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BEST OF

2020

BEST WINDOW TREATMENTS

FREE INSTALLATION

20%

OFF

with 5 or more windows!

Custom Drapery and Rugs

*Some exclusions apply.

Expires 06/30/21

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Expires 06/30/21

SHUTTERS starting at

$18.99

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(Local Manufacturer 2 1/2", 3 1/2", 4 1/2"). *Credit card fees will apply.

Expires 06/30/21

488 N. Main Street • Suite 109 Alpharetta, GA 30009 MAIN STREET WALK Call for your complimentary in-home consultation.

678-822-0928

Shutters • Blinds • Shades • Motorized Blinds Shades and Shutters Custom Drapery & Window Treatments • Wallpaper • Custom Rugs Custom Bedding • Custom Furniture • Custom Upholstery Interior Design Consultation

www.ClassicBlindsAndShutters.com

METRO ATLANTA’S PREMIER RENOVATIONS COMPANY

MY EAST COBB

ROOFS • SIDING • WINDOWS & DOORS • DECKS • PORTICOS & MORE

Ben Hill Renovations Inc.

770-949-3514 | bhrenovations.com

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My East Cobb Your EZ Guide to Neighborhood Home Improvement Resources

Appliance Repair

Handyman

Remodelers

Ramey Repair Services.......... 770-837-8676 Roswell Appliance Repair Service................................. 404-903-1453 Sandy Springs Appliance Repair...................................404-396-0939

Andy on Call ......................... 770-423-1058 Luminous Shaman.................. 770-331-3711 The Trusted Toolbox.............. 770-623-3097

Construction Ahead............... 770-234-0911 Southern Design & Remodeling...........................770-321-8669 Southland Development Services................................ 770-560-3012

Concrete

A Team Services Heating & Air......................................770-516-5165 Cool Air Mechanical...............770-266-5247 See page 21 Reliable Heating & Air............ 770-594-9969

Decks/Patios Ben Hill Renovations................770-949-3514 See page 10 Decks & More........................ 770-235-6929 DC Enclosures.......................770-999-0532

Electrician Pat Murphy Electric............... 470-440-2017 Lightning Bug Electric............470-228-1149 TE Certified Electricians..........770-667-6937

Flooring Enhance Floors & More..........770-565-3808 See page 2 Great American Floors...........404-254-2964 Westbury Carpet One Floor & Home.................................... 678-430-8172

Foundation Repair Aquaguard.................................770-419-9111 See page 19 ESOG........................................ 678-290-1325 See page 20 Morris Enviro.........................770-546-3998

Garage Doors Garage Door Experts............. 866-770-4457 Overhead Door........................404-566-9872 See page 19 Precision Garage Door Service.....770-698-4619

Gutters AJ Gutter Cleaning................. 404-749-7060 AquaGuard.................................770-419-9111 See page 19 OutbackGutterVac.................877-703-4822

Kitchen & Bath Showrooms Northpoint Appliance.............770-754-1390 Schuon Kitchens & Baths......770-643-9000 Southern Design & Remodeling...........................770-321-8669

Landscape Miller Landscaping................ 770-591-5234 NG Turf................................... 770-832-8608 See back cover Oasis Landscaping................ 770-913-9033

Painting CFG Painting...........................678-778-1040 Painting Plus............................ 770-971-1577 See page 20 Versa Painting.......................678-520-1488

Pest Control Arrow Exterminators............ 404-422-6689 Northwest Exterminating ..... 678-810-0026 Mosquito Squad....................770-504-4494

Plumbers Cool Air Mechanical...............770-266-5247 See page 21 Emergency Plumbers........... 404-989-5273 Marine Plumbing Service.......770-426-8060

Pools/Spas Alison Pools..........................678-528-4521 Leslies’s Pool Supplies, Service & Repair..................... 404-257-1971 Neptune Pools........................770-831-5415

Roofing Ben Hill Renovations................770-949-3514 See page 10 One of a Kind Marietta Roofers....470-648-0555 Roofing Plus.......................... 770-999-9675

Shower Enclosures Chattahoochee Shower Doors.... 770-497-1977 Drexler Shower Door & Custom Glass..........................404-800-6469 See page 7 Peachstate Glass & Mirror.... 678-756-4452

Siding Ben Hill Renovations................770-949-3514 See page 10 Painting Plus............................ 770-971-1577 See page 20 Tight Line Exteriors.............. 770-509-2282

Tile Northside Floors................... 770-428-1725 Tile House of Marietta............ 770-419-9300 The Tile Shop........................678-279-2233

Tree Removal Chapman’s Tree Service........678-921-8163 SoutheastTree.com.............. 770-977-8733 Todd’s Marietta Tree Services.... 678-505-0266

Windows/Window Coverings Ben Hill Renovations................770-949-3514 See page 10 Classic Blinds & Shutters......678-822-0928 See page 10 North Georgia Windows.......... 770-888-1604 See page 18

To find more home pros go to atlantahomeimprovement.com and click FIND A PRO

MY EAST COBB

Concrete Resurfacing............678-248-5154 Mudjack Atlanta.....................770-941-0568 Sudlow Concrete.................. 404-450-3753

HVAC

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my Calendar of Events Make a day or a night of it! Check out these fun places with family and friends.

MAY

May 21-23 Atlanta Home Show

MONDAYS The Plaza, The Battery Atlanta 6:30pm Free The Wellness Series at The Battery Atlanta invites you to socially distance and power stretch under the setting sun. Space is limited, so register online, or join virtually via Facebook Live. batteryatlyoga.eventbrite.com

TUESDAYS Trivia & Taco Tuesday at Sports and Social 825 Battery Ave. SE., Ste. 610 7-10pm Free Gather the trivia group for $6 taco plates and $6 house margaritas and battle it out with other teams to see who is best in fun facts. liveatthebatteryatlanta.com/events

MAY 31 MAY 23 Sunday Funday East Cobb Park 4-6pm Free Grab the family and bring your chairs, blankets and picnic baskets for live music by The Woodys, activities for the kids and more. eastcobbpark.org/events-activities

Five Star NTP’s 2021 Memorial Day 5K/10K Sprayberry Square Shopping Center 7:30am Prices vary, free for military Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with a race to honor those who lost their lives in service to our country. fivestarntp.com/main-racecalendar

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PHOTO COURTESY OF (RIGHT) FIVE STAR NTP, (LEFT) THE BATTERY ATLANTA.

Cobb Galleria Centre Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-5pm $8 online, $10 at door See what’s new in home improvement and shop dozens of vendors in landscaping, remodeling, home décor and more! atlantahomeshow.com

Yoga presented by Kaiser Permanente

MAY 26 Amphibian Hike

MY EAST COBB

3001 Bells Ferry Rd. 5:30-7:30pm Free Amphibian fanatics find plenty of good fodder at Noonday Creek Trailhead to explore and practice identification skills in a hands-on, educational environment presented by the Cobb County Watershed Stewardship Program. cobbcounty.org/water/events

Did You Know?

Mt. Bethel Methodist Church was the center of the community in the 1960s and ’70s.

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Food Faves Tr i e d a n d t r u e o r n e w t o y o u

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (1 & 2) SEED HOSPITALITY GROUP; (3) THE FLYING BISCUIT CAFÉ, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA HANNA PHOTOGRAPHY; (4) 26 THAI KITCHEN AT THE BATTERY; (5) BRADLEY’S BAR & GRILL.

2. Summer can officially start!

Drift Oyster House reopens the pop-up coastal classic Pop’s Lobster Shack at the restaurant for Pop’s Lobster Rolls and homemade chips—a twist on the Maine staple, served with drawn butter—every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

4475 Roswell Rd., Ste. 1410. driftoysterbar.com 3. Flying Biscuit Café has a new location at Parkaire Landing Shopping Center. Stop by for a plate of sweet and savory chicken & waffles made with a fresh and fluffy golden waffle topped with crispy buttermilk chicken tenders drizzled in maple syrup.

4880 Lower Roswell Rd., Ste. 70. flyingbiscuit.com 4. Another reason to love PH’EAST Food Hall: 26 Thai Kitchen at the Battery. Specifically, its Drunken Noodle, which comes overflowing with flat rice noodles drenched in spicy basil and oyster sauce, topped with Thai basil, crunchy carrots, bell peppers and onions, and finished with Thai chili, crispy basil and peppercorns.

925 Battery Ave. SE., Ste. 1100-3.

26thai.com/welcome-battery 5. Looking for casual, local fare?

Head to Bradley’s Bar & Grill.

Choose from delicious pub favorites like fried lemon pepper catfish fingers, served with Creole tartar sauce, their house firecracker slaw and a side of choice. Don’t forget to wash it down with a nice cold brew. 4691 Lower Roswell Rd. bradleysbarandgrill.com

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1. Ahh, summertime, when some of our favorite fresh ingredients return to the menu at Seed Kitchen and Bar. Think lemons and tomatoes—and indulge in both with the sweet and savory lemon ricotta ravioli with made-in-house ricotta and a bounty of fresh, local, heirloom tomatoes.

1311 Johnson Ferry Rd., Ste. 504. seedkitchenandbar.com

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PRO F I L E

Old Toccoa Fa Where people, lifestyle and design l If the pace of a small mountain community is what you are looking for, but you don’t want to sacrifice modern conveniences, then look no further than Old Toccoa Farm just outside Blue Ridge, Georgia. Shadowed by the world’s oldest mountain range and living naturally alongside a stretch of the Toccoa River, Old Toccoa Farm brings people, lifestyle and design together in a setting that is both casual and elegant.

Decisions typically start with location. And it all starts with the charm of downtown Blue Ridge, a town that baby boomers and Gen Xers call the “college town for adults.” It has a great vibe, an always improving restaurant scene, microbreweries, wineries, a thriving arts community, great local shopping and a national forest that surrounds the town providing nature enthusiasts with world-class outdoor pursuits. The question is, where do you live? The answer is Old Toccoa Farm.

MY EAST COBB

Real estate lot sales and new home construction are continuing at Old Toccoa Farm. Twenty beautifully designed homes have been completed, another ten custom homes are under construction and the design/builder program has another 30+ homes in the pipeline, which will become new construction starts throughout 2021. “Almost all who are purchasing homesites in Old Toccoa Farm are working with our team of architects, designers and builders to get their homes started as soon as possible. We have seen smaller footprint homes in design as well as larger family legacy designs. The combination of smaller and larger homes provides the community with a cross-section of home styles and sizes. We are creating a community that appeals to an active lifestyle buyer and one that wants a well-designed home that doesn’t break the bank on all-in costs. That’s what it’s all about,” says Peter Knutzen, one of two managing partners and developer of Old Toccoa Farm.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLD TOCCOA FARM, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SQUARE FRAME MEDIA.

Nature and Southern hospitality are center stage as you reach the community gatehouse and are welcomed by the gate attendant. Once through, the smell of the mountain air and fire pits puts you in a special place. Your senses are alive as you make your way around the community, noticing a significant number of new homes under construction.

Each home is architecturally appropriate, with large timbers, natural stone, board-batten, cedar shakes and accent metal roofing to create a true sense of belonging. Each is sited to fit “of the land, not on the land.”

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Old Toccoa Farm now has a completed 18-hole golf course that ranked as the #8 Best New Golf Course in the United States by Golf Digest. This semi-private golf course, designed by Jack Dredla, Dan Proctor and Dave Axland of Bunker Hill Golf, offers an exceptional golf experience. Among the course’s features are the incredibly beautiful 626-yard, par-five 13th hole, the 413-yard, par-four 6th hole overlooking a 100-year-old barn, and holes that play along Old Toccoa Farm’s 4,360 feet of Toccoa River frontage.

For those looking to become a part of the local community, volunteer options are robust and rewarding. In fact, many of Old Toccoa Farm’s employees and members are intimately involved with local charities, including Habitat for Humanity; The Open Arms Home for Children, a safe foster home for abused and neglected young girls ages 10-18; and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc., a veteran-focused organization providing therapy through fly-fishing and fly tying.

With spectacular sporting opportunities, a bustling downtown and a giving community, Old Toccoa Farm is the mountain retreat you’re looking for.

Old Toccoa Farm, oldtoccoafarm.com, 596 Curtis Switch Rd., Mineral Bluff, Georgia, 706.946.4653.

The content for this article is brought to you by Old Toccoa Farm.

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Blue Ridge Attractions: Restaurants and Nightlife: Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill, The Black Sheep, Harvest on Main, Cucina Rustica, Misty Mountain Hops, Mona Lisa’s Dessert House, Blue Jeans Pizza & Pasta, Masseria Kitchen & Bar, South of North Fusion Eatery, Poke’ Jon’s

Benton MacKaye Trail: Blue Ridge is the start of this 300-mile foot trail through the Appalachians.

Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center: One of the top five art towns in Georgia and hosts 35-plus exhibits and events annually.

Breweries & Wineries: Fannin Brewing Company, Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Buck Bald Brewing, Copperhill Brewery, Cartecay Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry, Serenberry Vineyards & Winery, Ott Farms & Vineyard, and Bear Claw Vineyards

Boat Dock Bar & Grill: Float on up to Lake Blue Ridge Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill for some delicious fare.

Noontootla Creek Farms (OTF Partner): This 1,000+ acre property offers guided trophy fly-fishing, quail and pheasant shoots, and a 12-stand sporting clay course.

MY EAST COBB

And homes aren’t the only construction taking place. The new golf shop and community tavern is scheduled to break ground this month and will be a great asset to Old Toccoa Farm and the Blue Ridge community. “We feel that we have come to a critical path in our development plan that requires this new amenity, and we are thrilled for our members that this is now underway. By fall of this year, we will be socializing once again and the tavern will be a huge hit for our membership and visiting guests,” says Knutzen. He also mentions that a real estate price increase and membership drive are scheduled to coincide with this new phase of amenity construction.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLD TOCCOA FARM, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SQUARE FRAME MEDIA.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLD TOCCOA FARM, PHOTOGRAPHY BY SQUARE FRAME MEDIA.

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Combining environmental concerns and giving back to those in need is what Lynn Bridges McCray does best. Through her work with Eco Sneakers (.ORG) and Women’s Health Consortium, this Best Self Atlanta 2020 Over 40 & Fabulous! Super Six winner is putting shoes on feet and making soles happy!

What is the best piece of parenting advice you ever received?

LBM: Take 15 minutes with (each of) your children at bedtime with the light turned down and let them talk about their day.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community?

LBM: I work with Eco Sneakers (.ORG), traveling the country to collect and donate sneakers to children and families in need around the Southeast. We collaborate with Climate Reality to get the message out about the impact of keeping sneakers out of landfills. Also with my organization, Women’s Health Consortium, I work with women to help regain confidence through balance exercises, knife-throwing and movement through music (mostly stroke victims).

LBM: Bobby Johnson, who is the “official” Founder of Eco Sneakers (.ORG), inspired me with his work ethic, his passion and his determination to share his mission of environmental responsibility through repurposing sneakers with the world. He inspired me to expand the Eco Sneakers (.ORG) mission to kids in schools and communities in cities all over the Southeast. I was hooked the first time I went to collect sneakers at a mud run (Tough Mudder). The people supported each other to complete the race!

They all thanked me for taking their almost new, but very muddy, sneakers after the race to be cleaned and reused, as opposed to just throwing them away.

My mom inspired me to work with struggling women and stroke victims. She still suffers from the effects of a stroke four years later.

Who are the experts/professionals who help you be your best self?

LBM: Eyetopia Med Spa, Alldia Edwards/Kayla Stutson: My Textures Salon, Tina/Old Man/Susan: Nail Season II, and last but not least, dresses from Designs by Sylvia.

What is your favorite way to work out?

LBM: I have an international interval workout four times a week. Most recently, I have regained a love of biking for cardio.

What are some of your favorite places around East Cobb?

LBM: I love to eat at McCray’s Tavern and Red Curry Thai Restaurant. Simply Fresh Market is wonderful to get my veggies and I can always stop by The Avenue East Cobb. ecosneakers.org

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MY EAST COBB

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What should I know about choosing the thickness of the glass for my frameless shower door and enclosure?

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MY EAST COBB

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my Family

At the heart of the ’hood

JEREMIAH PERRY (WITH PLAQUE) STANDS WITH HIS FAMILY AND KIWANIS CLUB MEMEBERS.

Rocky Mount Elementary School fifth grader Jeremiah Perry was

awarded Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K’s Silver Pen Award in February for his 2020 short story ending. While

he technically won the award as a fourth grader, the ceremony was postponed by the pandemic. 3332 Sandy Plains Rd. mariettakiwanis.org

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Congrats to pint-sized preservationists Aniston and Seojun from Bells Ferry Elementary, and Riya and Raina from Mountain View Elementary (artwork featured right) who joined fourth and fifth grade winners in the 16th Annual Adventures of Tappy Turtle Artist Challenge with artwork featured in the 2021 Cobb County Watershed’s conservation coloring book. cobbstreams.org

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No pandemic can stop the Young Men’s Service League.

In 2021, amidst an era where creativity and flexibility are key, this group masks up to help the YMCA load more than 10,000 pounds of food boxes into delivery vans to feed members of the community in need, while at-home helpers made more than 1,000 craft kits to accompany them. chapters.ymsl.org/chapter/eastcobb

MY EAST COBB

Raina B .

Mounta

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Broadcom Foundation and Society for Science & the Public recognized Abhijeet Ghosh, an eighth grader at Dodgen Middle School, as one of the 30 national finalists in its MASTERS competition late last year. This STEM-focused event aims to inspire and recognize middle schoolers from across the country. broadcomfoundation.org/masters/winners-2020

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in View Elemen

tary 5th Gra de

ABHIJEET GHOSH

ERIN INAN AND HER SON, OMER INAN

It was a slam dunk this year for Mabry Middle Schoolers (and twins) Kate and Kenzie Wyman when they were named

Nike Game Growers co-captains of the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream for their work in helping promote girls sports

through their idea called GEAR UP (Girls Everywhere Are Ready, Unleash Their Potential). 2700 Jims Rd. NE. dream.wnba.com my

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Tip: Turn of f the wa te r while you ar e washin g your hands.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF (1) KIWANIS CLUB OF MARIETTA GOLDEN K, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN KONE; (4) YMSL, PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLE BATTERSBY.

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MAN KATE AND KENZIE WY

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Doing Good in the ’Hood L e n d

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Owning pets as we age can lower stress, lower blood pressure and provide a boost for our overall mental health and happiness.

Good Mews Animal Foundation created its Golden Companions Program with this in mind,

offering an adoption discount to senior citizens age 65 and up to pair them with senior pets looking for a warm, loving lap to snuggle in. 3805 Robinson Rd. goodmews.org

PHOTOGRAPHY BY (TOP) GOOD MEWS ANIMAL FOUNDATION, PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH FINCH.

adopt a plot to clean up, keep trimmed and maintained. No heavy

lifting required—just a big heart for sharing what we love about the outdoors with our community and several pairs of willing hands. 3322 Roswell Rd. eastcobbpark.org

3

Family Promise of East Cobb is a local nonprofit that has provided shelter, food and support to families transitioning out of homelessness since 1986. On June 21,

you can use your golf skills to help support their mission by registering

to play (or sponsor) in their 6th Annual Family Promise of Cobb County Golf Event at the Indian Hills Country Club. familypromisecobbcounty.org/golf-2021

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Good news for hands-on humanitarians: Habitat for Humanity - North Central Georgia volunteer registration is live!

Register online to view active build sites and home repair projects, then sign up to join at various dates and locations across North Georgia.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and COVID-19 precautions are in place. habitat-ncg.org/volunteer

5

In late March, volunteers from across Georgia took to the Chattahoochee River for the annual Sweep the Hooch event. Through the coordinated efforts of shore volunteers and boat-bound helpers,

they were able to remove 35 tons of trash from the watershed. Do your part to

keep the waters clean by signing up for one of the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s additional clean-ups. chattahoochee.org/cleanups

my

MY EAST COBB

2

Get outside and do some good this spring at East Cobb Park’s Towhee Trail. As a family, neighborhood or other group,

23 4/23/21 3:42 PM

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