Best of Cobb 2023

MARCH 2023

PUBLISHED BY THE MARIETTA DAILY JOURNAL

CL COBB LIFE

INFORMATION

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Otis Brumby III

GENERAL MANAGER

Lee B. Garrett

V.P. OF CONTENT

J.K. Murphy

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR PRO TEM

Skyler Heath

CONTRIBUTORS

Skyler Heath, Lisa Mowry, Hunter Riggall, Jon Styf, Tamacia Woolcock

PHOTOGRAPHY

Brooke Brantley, Pamela Dabrowa, HADLEY(s) Photography, Lisa Mowry

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Caffeine Generated Graphics

Robin Harrison

ADVERTISING STAFF

V.P. OF SALES

Tara Guest

COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER

Becky Opitz

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jill Abbott, Stephanie deJarnette, Ginny Hrushka, Paula Milton

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT COORDINATOR

Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Erin Barkwell, Tona Deaton, Lee Field, Jennifer Hall

Cobb Life is published nine times a year by the Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 25,000 homes and businesses.

To subscribe, email circulation@cobblifemagazine.com or call 770-795-5001.

To advertise, contact Tara Guest at 770-428-9411, ext. 4511.

Send letters to the editor, article pitches and any other content queries to Skyler Heath at sheath@mdjonline.com.

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CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Dave Gossett

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MARCH 2023

Best of

You voted. We tallied. After over 380,000 votes, here is the full list of your first, second and third place winners, and even a few tying winners of our 2023 Best of Cobb contest.

Features

10 Best of Cobb’s Vote-Getters

Out of all of the votes we received in our 2023 Best of Cobb contest, these winners from five separate categories brought in the most votes.

13 The Third Door

Not many bars got their start with a trailer, but that’s exactly how the idea for Marietta’s The Third Door came to life. The bar, which operates as a camper showroom by day and a speakeasy-type cocktail space by night, has garnered a reputation for its incredible cocktail selection and personable staff.

32 Pisano’s

When Michael Judvytis and his business partners Matthew and Joseph Hsiao bought a local pizza joint in 2018, they had a vision for the space — creating a comfortable, collective atmosphere centered on family and the community.

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is a Cobb staple known its authentic Italian cuisine and genuine hospitality.

71 Good Mews

Calling all cat lovers! Looking to add a furry friend to the family? Good Mews Animal Foundation has hundreds of cats looking to find their forever home. The cage-free, no-kill cat shelter has adoption events from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays or weekdays by appointment.

110 Square Threads

Forget the idea of brick-and-mortar stores needing to find their niche; Square Threads, a men’s clothing store on Marietta Square, is thriving these days. The store’s personal service is its key to success, particularly because of its easy location and the way men tend to shop.

Welcome to Best of Cobb 2023!

Ah, spring — the season of growth, rebirth, beautiful blooms, balmy weather, copious amounts of pollen and for the Cobb community, the Best of Cobb contest.

Growing up a travel soccer player, I was always on the move, packing my bags for the next adventure or in my case, the next tournament or college showcase. Weekend after weekend for 10 years, I visited virtually every city and county in the state — from the tip of North Georgia all the way down to the Florida-Georgia line, you name it, I’ve probably been there.

When my team and I journeyed to a new city, we had a tradition. During our free time, instead of staying within the bounds of our hotel rooms and ordering room service, we would fuel up on popular restaurant staples unique to the area and afterwards, explore the cities.

For me, Cobb County was always one of my favorite places to stay. From its bustling restaurant scene, eclectic architecture and constant

happenings — after a visit or two — I quickly came to appreciate Cobb’s charm.

Fast forward to my current role coordinating the Cobb Life Magazine, I have gained an even greater appreciation for Cobb County and the tight-knit community of businesses that come along with it. With that said, I’m excited to present this Best of Cobb issue with readers and the community today.

Best of Cobb is certainly unlike any contest I’ve ever seen. Winners aren’t selected based on advertising or popularity of the paper. Instead, all nominations, votes and winners are selected by readers of the Cobb Life Magazine and the Marietta Daily Journal.

On behalf of the Cobb Life staff and MDJ team, we would like to thank all the participants who cast more than a whopping 380,000 votes this year! I knew this contest was popular, but the numbers definitely impress.

Best of Cobb is certainly unlike any contest I’ve ever seen. Winners aren’t selected based on advertising or popularity of the paper. Instead, all nominations, votes and winners are selected by readers of the Cobb Life Magazine and the Marietta Daily Journal.

Curious to see who received the most votes overall in some of our popular categories? Flip over to the vote-getters story on page 10.

In this issue, we chose a select few winners to highlight in feature stories: Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, Good Mews Foundation, Square Threads and The Third Door. Some have been staples in the community for years and others are new members of Cobb.

While browsing through our winners, don’t forget to check out the latest April releases, noteworthy news in Cobb, familiar faces in Cobb Scene and our Now & Then photo segment.

Finally, we would like to formally invite our readers to join us at our celebratory Best of Cobb event on March 23 presented by Superior Plumbing at the Jim R Miller Event Center. Meet and hang out with the Cobb Life Magazine staff and celebrate the winners with great food, drinks and plenty of giveaways. You won’t want to miss this! Tickets can be purchased at www. mdjonline.com/cobblife/bestof. See you there!

Skyler Heath

Skyler Heath

Best of Cobb‘s VOTE-GETTERS 2023 BESTOF COBB

Who’s the best of the best? That’s debatable, but numbers don’t lie. You voted, we counted and thanks to the support shown by our readers, we had over 380,000 votes cast this year.

Every year, we highlight some of the winners who were especially popular in the contest. This year, we’re highlighting top vote-getters in five of the most popular categories in alphabetical order. Congratulations to all.

MOUNT PARAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

1275 Stanley Rd NW, Kennesaw, GA 30152 (770) 578-0182

Mtparanschool.com

SECTION: Kids and Education

CATEGORIES:

Best Dance Studio

CARL BLACK CHEVROLET BUICK GMC

1110 Roberts Blvd. NW, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144 carlblackkennesaw.com

(888) 457-2417

SECTION:

Automotive & Recreational Vehicles

CATEGORIES:

Best Auto Dealer

Best Used Car Dealer

Best Auto Dealer Service Department

Shopping for the perfect car, truck or SUV should be fun, easy and hassle-free. That’s exactly what customers will find when they shop at Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC Kennesaw. Whether guests are shopping for a new truck or need to get their SUV in for service, they can count on Carl Black staff to make their visit pleasant and fun. With upwards of 800 new car options, Carl Black staff is confident they have the right model for customers at the right price. Carl Black’s friendly, knowledgeable experts are here to make every customer’s visit easy and hassle-free.

Carl Black receives many well-maintained used cars and SUVs as tradeins from loyal customers. Before Carl Black offers these vehicles for sale to the public, the dealership makes sure that the vehicles live up to the company’s strict standards. For those looking for quality at a low-price, Carl Black’s selection of used vehicles is sure to have the perfect model for customer’s needs.

Best Music Instruction

Best Private School

Best Preschool

Best Performing Arts Program

Best Teacher, Angela Coleman

For the fifth year in a row, Mount Paran Christian School — the largest private Christian school in Cobb County — has taken a top voting spot for our Best of Cobb contest.

At Mount Paran, the mission to unite with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others and walk in truth is carried out through exemplary instruction for the school’s 1,292 students in grades pre-K3 through 12.

MPCS students and staff are continuously pursuing excellence. A sampling of extracurriculars includes the three-time championship-winning middle school Black History Bowl team, as well as the Eagle Robotics team, who is once again headed for state competition. In athletics, the softball and volleyball teams have already won 2023 state titles, and

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

Written By SKYLER HEATH

competition cheer has won their 11th consecutive state title. The robust MPCS arts program features breathtakingly beautiful productions, like the lower school’s offering of “101 Dalmatians”, middle school’s presentation of “Frozen Jr.” and high school’s rendition of “The Little Mermaid”. And, academics are nothing short of excellent, with an unprecedented 56 AP/Honors high school courses, advanced courses in lower and middle school and a flagship directed studies program.

This learning, faith development and relationship building takes place on a picturesque 68-acre campus adjacent to Kennesaw Mountain. With the new Murray Innovation Center, top-notch classrooms, arts and athletics facilities, students learn in state-of-the-art spaces appropriate to the grade level and subject matter.

At MPCS, every student is known and loved by caring teachers who are not only experts in their field, but also are strong in the Christian faith, making it a point to pray over their students. As one parent shared, “If you are looking for smaller class sizes, a family atmosphere and the academic rigor, MPCS has it. They do all that while pointing [students] to Jesus.”

Visit MPCS, talk to other MPCS families, attend an athletic event or arts production and experience the amazing culture of the school to learn first-hand why the school continues to be selected as the “Best of Cobb”. MPCS is worth the investment for your children’s education and future!

SUPERIOR PLUMBING

3991 Royal Drive NW, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144 superiorplumbing.com (770) 422-7586

SECTION: Services

CATEGORIES: Best Plumber

For the fifth year in a row, Superior Plumbing has been named Best Plumber in the Best of Cobb contest. Superior Plumbing delivers high-quality, professional and trustworthy plumbing services to customers in and

around Cobb County. “Superior Plumbing constantly challenges the status quo of our industry as we focus on raising the bar by requiring our plumbers to acquire the highest levels of licensure and certification available to them relative to their work,” owner Jay Cunningham said. “We think good character is paramount. Our customers deserve the utmost integrity, professionalism, dependability and respect for their time and property.”

Since Superior Plumbing was established in 1988, Cunningham has stood by his promise of honest, quality service at a fair price. “Superior Plumbing understands that our business is all about people, not plumbing,” Cunningham said. “Our hiring practices, training programs, employee retention, and our reputation amongst our colleagues attest to the quality of our company’s remarkable staff.”

Aside from its consistent and effective plumbing services, Superior Plumbing is dedicated to extending a helping hand to those in the Cobb Community. The company started Superior Plumbing Kids Club in 2012, which provides opportunities to special need students and their families to participate in local activities such as sporting events, festivals, shows and more.

TRATON HOMES

720 Kennesaw Ave. Marietta, Ga. 30060 (770) 427-9064

tratonhomes.com

SECTION: Real Estate & Finance

CATEGORIES:

Best Home Builder

Best Real Estate Agent, Alicia Sipsy

As Traton celebrates its fourth year in a row winning the Best Home Builder award in the Best of Cobb contest, the company is humbled by the support of its many homeowners, employees, friends and family.

Marietta-based Traton Homes was founded in 1971 by brothers Bill and

Milburn Poston who are both honored and privileged to have served Cobb County for more than five decades.

As a Certified Professional Homebuilder, Traton demonstrates its commitment to conducting business according to a set of high-level standards and to continuing to train and augment its industry knowledge.

Traton’s legacy includes ongoing innovation as signified in its slogan, “Altogether More!” From single-family detached homes to full-featured townhomes and active adult homes, Traton prides itself on building quality and value into every home it builds. “We build each Traton home today on a legacy of sound construction, superior service and outstanding value,” said Chief Operating Officer Chris Poston, son of co-founder William C. Poston. “While we continue to grow in metro-Atlanta and beyond, that legacy is one thing that will not change.”

Traton’s roots run deep in Cobb County where it has become an integral part of the community. Every year, Traton Homes partners with Cobb Christmas for their annual Stuff-A-Bus event. This year, Traton celebrated a fantastic 19-year partnership with the organization raising nearly $24,000 to purchase toys for low-income families in Cobb.

Although Traton is proud of the many awards and accolades it has received through the years, its proudest achievement is the thousands of homeowners who have chosen Traton for a first, second, and even a third new home. “There is a lot to be said for the way my father and uncle established Traton and laid out our values,” Poston said. “The solid foundation they set will allow us to continue in our growth and service to homebuyers for years to come.”

VERDE POINTE DENTAL ASSOCIATES

3698 Largent Way Suite 202 Marietta, Ga. 30064

verdepointedentalassociates.com (404) 467-6470

SECTION: Health, Beauty & Wellness

CATEGORIES:

Best Dental Group

Best Dental Hygienist, Christine Grenon Best Dentist, Dr. Kirk Kimmerling

While visiting the dentist might be dreaded task for some, there’s nothing but smiles at Verde Pointe Dental Associates, thanks to Dr. Kirk Kimmerling and his staff.

Verde Pointe Dental Associates offers comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry with emergency services available using state-of-the-art technology. Verde Pointe’s experienced staff, some who have been with the company for over 25 years, has skills and resources to deliver high-caliber care in a warm, welcoming environment. They are dedicated to making premier dental care accessible to individuals and their families.

Verde Pointe dentists pay a great attention to detail and said they like to consider themselves “meticulous perfectionists” when it comes to procedures, techniques and improving every patient’s experience.

Founder of FiteBac Dental, Dr. Kirk Kimmerling is actively involved in the development of antimicrobial technology and antimicrobial dental products, techniques and materials designed to achieve better treatment outcomes. The FiteBac Antimicrobial Cavity Cleanser is the first FDA-cleared antimicrobial cavity cleanser. It’s placed under fillings, crowns, and bridges and in root canals to help reduce microbes that destroy teeth.

The Third Door succeeds with creative cocktails, concept

Not many bars got their start with a trailer, but that’s exactly how the idea for Marietta’s The Third Door came to life.

Owners Ted and Lara Ferreira were architects selling Happier Camper vintage-looking fiberglass trailers. First, they decided to renovate a few into mobile bars. Then, they thought it might be great to have a place near the Marietta Square that operated as a camper showroom by day and a speakeasy-type prohibition era cocktail space by night.

That’s how the Third Door was born, opening in the weirdest of years in August 2020 to 50% capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic with its large patio space at 131 Church St. at an old 1920s pump station.

It’s an idea that was popular from the start, with lines down the sidewalk when it opened, and has evolved into what was voted Best of Cobb’s Best Cocktail Menu for the second straight year while having Owen DeLaMater voted as Best Bartender/Mixologist/Sommelier and The Third Door finishing runner-up in the voting for Best Overall Bar. Back in 2021, it was named the Best New Bar.

“It’s voluminous how much we now know that we didn’t know then,” said Lara Ferreira.

Like everything at The Third Door, it’s evolving, from the staff to the seasonal signature cocktail

By JON STYF

menu. DeLaMater is the only staff member remaining from August 2020, but The Third Door has developed a collaborative staff that makes it their job to always be working on creating the perfect drinks for the next menu.

“Everyone on the staff has an opportunity to have their say,” DeLaMater said.

They bring a concept and then they hone it, trying to have different flavors and ideas from each season to the next. They taste test the ideas, then the ideas continue to evolve until the new menu arrives.

“We have a bunch of mad scientists on hand, which might not be too surprising,” Ferreira said.

She added that the bartenders also know the full canon of classics and are sure to be able to find

something for every taste, from light and refreshing to heavier and boozy to the non-alcoholic zero proof signature menu.

“Our No. 1 value is inclusivity,” Ferreira said. “We aim to be a place where people feel welcome.… It’s like you’re stepping away from your day-to-day life.”

There were issues, like needing a larger icemaker, that they have fixed. And challenges, like not having a kitchen, that have evolved.

The Third Door, in a partnership with The Butcher on Whitlock, is

Owen DeLaMater was named the Best Bartender in the 2023 Best of Cobb contest. He has been with The Third Door since it opened in August 2020. (Photo by Third Door)

The Jitterbug III is an alcohol-free drink on The Third Door’s menu that includes Lyre’s Agave Blanco, coconut cream, passionfruit, lime, grenadine and pink grapefruit bubbles.

(Photo by SIPS of Atlanta)

The Third Door’s wide variety of drinks include a passion fruit daiquiri. (Photo by SIPS of Atlanta)

PRESENTED

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

now offering cold plates of charcuterie, pimento cheese or a high-end hummus. And every other Wednesday, they offer a $55 Wise Up Wednesdays course which features one particular spirit.

The Third Door teaches participants the detail of the alcohol, what makes it unique, how it’s made and how it’s mixed. It also offers three signature drinks featuring that alcohol and it offers food from a different restaurant on the square, which featured a burger from Stockyard at a recent event.

As for the trailers, they are still alive and well as Temperance Trailers bartenders serves at weddings, corporate events and wherever mobile bartenders are needed. Don’t worry, they offer the expertise and signature menu from The Third Door’s bartending staff as well.

If you head to The Third Door, know that the drinks are always evolving but Ferreira knows there will always be a bourbon, vodka or gin drink that’s popular— something bright and refreshing, crushable and a boozy slow sipper.

So what’s so special about The Third Door that it’s become a Best of Cobb mainstay in its first two and a half years?

A lot of it’s the people and how much fun they have serving others, DeLaMater says.

“It’s our ability to adapt to whatever,” DeLaMater said. “Creating an atmosphere where we all feel good, making work fun.”

Photo: Lauren Chambers

IMMEDIATE RIGHT: The Bearcat Lounge is one of the unique spaces at The Third Door. It seats six comfortably and has heaters and blankets when it’s cold out. (Photo by SIPS of Atlanta)

FAR RIGHT: A Third Door bartender double strains ingredients in a shaker tin to produce a smooth, flavorful cocktail for a customer.

(Photo by SIPS of Atlanta)

BESTOF

Artist (Performing)

Barry Lancaster

2nd Place: Camilla Sanders

3rd Place: Will Cole

BESTOF

Artist (Visual)

Susan Easton Burns

2nd Place: Claire Dunaway Cyr

3rd Place: Miles Davis | Massive Burn Studios

Bartender Mixologist

Sommelier

Owen DeLaMaterThe Third Door

2nd Place: Jennifer AndersonTwo Birds Taphouse

3rd Place: Haylie BlackwellMarietta Country Club

Bowling

Bowlero Kennesaw

2nd Place: Bowlero Marietta

Owen delamater, the third door

Barry Lancaster

2023 BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

“It is The Strand’s mission to provide cultural entertainment and education, preserve the historic landmark theatre, and promote economic development in the City of Marietta and Cobb County.”

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED

Cocktail Menu

The Third Door

2nd Place: Two Birds Taphouse

3rd Place: The Lumiere Lounge at the Strand Theatre

Concer t Venue

Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

2nd Place: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

3rd Place: The Roxy

Craft Beer Selection

Two Birds Taphouse

2nd Place: Glover Park Brewery

3rd Place: Horned Owl Brewing

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED

Event Venue Jim R. Miller Park & Event Center

2nd Place: Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

3rd Place: Two Birds Taphouse

EARL AND RACHEL SMITH STRAND THEATRE

Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

Family Amusement

North Georgia State Fair

2nd Place: Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

3rd Place: Governors Gun Club

Festival

North Georgia State Fair

2nd Place: Chalktoberfest

3rd Place: Horned Owl Brewing Oktoberfest

Golf Course

Marietta Country Club

2nd Place: Brookstone Golf & Country Club

3rd Place: City Club Marietta

North Georgia State Fair

BESTOF

PRESENTED

Happy Hour

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: Two Birds Taphouse

3rd Place: Glover Park Brewery

Historic Site

Kennesaw Mountain

National Battlefield Park

2nd Place: Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

3rd Place: Marietta History Center

Karaoke

Lumiere LoungeEarl and Rachel Smith

Strand Theatre

2nd Place: Johnnie MacCracken’s Celtic Firehouse Pub

3rd Place: Special Blends Mobile Bartending

Live Theatre

Earl and Rachel Smith

Strand Theatre

2nd Place: Kennesaw Mountain High School

Drama (KMHS Drama)

3rd Place: Allatoona High School

Local Band

Musician

Georgia Players Guild

2nd Place: School of Rock West Cobb House Band

Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

Local Blogger

Influencer

Laura GodfreyHome and Style

2nd Place: Siobhán Alvarez, Mimosas & Motherhood

3rd Place: MariettaArtScene

Local Brewer y Distillery Glover Park Brewery

2nd Place: Horned Owl Brewing

3rd Place: Skint Chestnut Brewing Company

Local Tour Company

Tours of Marietta

2nd Place: Acworth Ghost Tours

“Located in a 1930s era brick building just steps away from the Marietta Square, our taproom can be found on the terrace level just inside our dog-friendly beer garden.”

glover park brewery

Museum

Marietta Cobb Museum of Art

2nd Place: Marietta History Center

3rd Place: Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

New Bar (as of March 2021)

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: Hamp & Harry’s

3rd Place: Horned Owl Brewing

Glover Park Brewery

Overall Bar

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: The Third Door

3rd Place: Two Birds Taphouse

Park

Jim R. Miller Park & Event Center

2nd Place: Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

3rd Place: Swift Cantrell Park

Place to Take a Tourist

Marietta Square

2nd Place: The Battery Atlanta

3rd Place: Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Place to Worship

First Presbyterian Church of Marietta

2nd Place: St. Joseph Catholic Church

3rd Place: NorthStar Church

Socially Distanced Event Venue

Glover Park Brewery

2nd Place: Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

3rd Place: Governors Gun Club

Spor ts Bar

Glover Park Brewery

2nd Place: Olde Towne Tavern & Grille

3rd Place: Live! at the Battery Atlanta

First Presbyterian Church of Marietta

Trivia Host

Josh Waters

Two Birds Taphouse

2nd Place: Or’Rin Stinson Horned Owl Brewing

3rd Place: Lance Vanderlip - Glover Park Brewery

Vir tual Event

Earl and Rachel Smith

Strand Theatre Virtual Concert Series

2nd Place: History Loves Company Facebook Live with the Marietta Museum of History

3rd Place: Mable House Arts Center: Art Box

Wedding Venue

The Whitlock Inn

2nd Place: Mielke Way Manor

3rd Place: Glover Park Brewery

Wine List

Two Birds Taphouse

2nd Place: Marietta Wine Market

3rd Place: unWined & Tap

Black Chevrolet Buick GMC Service Center

“Our brand is based on a superior quality of repair, clear communication and our efforts on convenience of doing business.”

viking boat & fiberglass repair ltd.

Auto/Body Collision

Atlanta Road Body Shop

2nd Place: Jett AutoCare

3rd Place Tie: Caliber Collision

3rd Place Tie: Fairground Automotive & Tire

Boat Repair

Viking Boat & Fiberglass Repair Ltd.

2nd Place: Park Marine Boat Sales & Service at Kennesaw

3rd Place: East Coast Marine

Boat/Marine Dealer

Park Marine Boat Sales & Service at Kennesaw

2nd Place: Bay Marine

3rd Place: Marietta Marine, Inc

Car Salesman

Chris Massey

Day’s Chevrolet Kennesaw/Acworth

2nd Place: T.Scott Jordan- Carl Black Kennesaw

3rd Place: Drew Tutton Ed Voyles CDJR

Viking Boat & Fiberglass Repair Ltd.

Motorcycle Dealer

WOW Motorcycles

2nd Place: Indian Motorcycle of Marietta

3rd Place: Hellbender Harley-Davidson

New Car Dealer

2nd Place: Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC

3rd Place: Cobb County Toyota Oil Change Jett AutoCare

2nd Place: Jiffy Lube

3rd Place: Ricky Jordan’s Auto Repair

RV

2nd

3rd

2nd

3rd

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

The family and pizza capital of Cobb

Written by SKYLER HEATH

When Michael Judvytis and his business partners Matthew and Joseph Hsiao bought a local pizza joint in 2018, they had a vision for the space — creating a comfortable, collective atmosphere centered on family and the community. Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, located in the heart of downtown Kennesaw, is a restaurant staple in Cobb County known for its authentic Italian cuisine and genuine hospitality.

The pizza parlor at 2740 Summers St. placed No. 1 in six different categories for this year’s Best of Cobb contest, voted on by readers and customers in the community.

“ We aren’t a franchise. We aren’t a part of a larger brand,” Pisano’s co-owner Michael Judvytis said. “We’re just a neighborhood pizzeria. We are the token of this community.”

Readers voted Pisano’s as the winner of Best Italian, Best Pizza, Best Happy Hour, Best New Bar, Best Outdoor Dining and Best Overall Bar in this year’s contest.

But the pizza joint’s popularity isn’t just for its fresh ingredients, insatiable garlic rolls and homemade pizza — Judvytis said the Pisano’s team runs the restaurant like it’s an extension of their own home.

“ We’ve created a culture that is based on family,” he said. “When you come here you’re comfortable… just like when you’re at home.”

“As managers, we make it a priority to really get to know our customers,”

TOP: A sneak peak of some of the many authentic Italian dishes and New York-style pizza pies that are made fresh, in-house daily at Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen.

FAR LEFT: Left to right, top to bottom: Pisano’s staff Hunter, Javier, Adyson, Maddie, Sara, Cindy, Jenna, Mackenzie, Tiffani , Michael and Matthew come together for a group photo on the outdoor patio.

MIDDLE: Sitting on the corner of Summers Street in downtown Kennesaw, Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is family-oriented staple in the Cobb community.

RIGHT: The inside dining area of Pisano’s has an open-kitchen concept and comfortable atmosphere where customers sit back, relax and watch the chefs in action — there’s an art to making their award-winning pizza and authentic Italian cuisine.

front of house manager Cindy

Lamme added. “We don’t just walk by and say, ‘hey, how’s your food?’ We take the time to talk to them and get to know them and their families.”

And it seems the restaurant’s family dynamic is also practiced

between the managers and employees — so much so that Pisano’s staff calls Lamme “Grandma”.

“I have a family at home and six grandchildren, but I also have a family here,” she said. “These kids are great.”

Lamme has been with Pisano’s for seven years, but has worked in the restaurant industry for over 30. She said the tight-knit community and staff at Pisano’s is incomparable to the rest.

“This place is very inviting and family oriented,” manager Javier Malone noted, who has been a part of the Pisano’s team since 2015.

Pisano’s opened for business in 2012 and the restaurant’s namesake is the original owner, Mark Pisano. Back then, the restaurant had a quaint indoor and outdoor dining area and a minimal beer and wine menu.

But when Judvytis and his long-time friends Matthew and Joseph Hsiao took over ownership of Pisano’s in 2018, Lamme said the like-minded trio appreciated the restaurant’s comforting, at-home feel and envisioned a future for the space.

The co-owners pictured adding a covered outdoor dining area with more tables, a massive patio and a full-service bar. Lamme said Judvytis sketched out the blueprint and came up with an action plan to mobilize the renovation.

Joseph and Michael Hsiao “were kind of like my role models and mentors,” Judvytis said, adding that their extensive restaurateur experience and entrepreneurial spirit fueled the entire operation.

The Hsiao brothers are owners and operators of six restaurants in metro Atlanta including the two original Flying Biscuit locations in Candler Park and Midtown and the

West Cobb Diner, which also won three categories in this year’s Best of Cobb contest: Best Business Lunch, Best Fried Chicken and Best Southern Food.

Once the restaurant’s renovations concluded last year, Lamme said opportunities came knocking and business accelerated.

“When we added the extra seating and bar area, it created so many more opportunities for us to host larger parties and banquets,” Lamme said.

Now, Pisano’s is a destination restaurant that hosts sports teams, business meetings, holiday parties and even wedding receptions.

Steve Burns, a Pisano’s regular, said he’s been coming to the restaurant for six years and started dating his future wife, Angela Burns at the pizza joint. He later proposed to her at Pisano’s and the couple then hosted their wedding reception at the restaurant on Feb. 22, 2022 at 2:22 p.m.

“These people are amazing,” Burns said. “We come up here every week and definitely on Wednesdays and Thursdays for the live music and $2 beer.”

Pisano’s also garnered a reputation for its daily lunch and dinner specials making it a hot spot for local college students. Every week, customers who dine at Pisano’s can listen to live music, sip on craft beer and domestic drafts for less than $2.50 and enjoy half price wine by the glass.

Despite the restaurant’s recent success, Pisano’s management said they want to build an even stronger foundation with the Cobb commu-

nity before they consider opening new locations.

Joseph Hsiao said if they open a new store in the future, the co-owners have their sights set on downtown Woodstock.

“We don’t really know what the future holds, but right now we just want to focus on growing this,” Judvytis added. “We still have plenty to do with this restaurant and still want this to remain a unique token of the area.”

TOP: The pizza joint has daily lunch/happy hour specials including $2 craft beer, domestic drafts deals, half price wine by the glass, live music and so much more every week.

MIDDLE: From local craft beer and whiskey coke to signature cocktails including the refreshing Pink Flamingo, Roman Mule with Amaretto and Margarita Italiana, Pisano’s has a full-service bar that offers a little something for everyone.

BOTTOM: In spring, summer and when Georgia weather permits, Pisano’s customers can soak up the sun and dine outside on the vast patio.

Appetizers

Light Fare

1885 Grill - Acworth

2nd Place: Two Birds Taphouse

3rd Place: House of Lu Bakery

Honeysuckle

Biscuits & Bakery

2nd Place: McEntyre’s Bakery

3rd Place: Douceur De France

BBQ

Dave Poe’s BBQ

2nd Place: Williamson Brothers Bar-B-Q

3rd Place: Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q

Breakfast

Honeysuckle

Biscuits & Bakery

2nd Place: The Red Eyed Mule

3rd Place: Reveille Cafe

Brunch

1885 Grill - Acworth

2nd Place: Douceur De France

3rd Place: Reveille Cafe West Cobb

Burger

BurgerFi Kennesaw

2nd Place: MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes

3rd Place: Sac Burger

Business Lunch

West Cobb Diner

2nd Place: House of Lu

3rd Place: Governors Gun Club

Carr y Out

1885 Grill - Acworth

2nd Place: House of Lu

3rd Place: Otter’s Chicken Caterer

Adriane’s Delectables

Catering

2nd Place: 1885 Grill- Acworth

3rd Place: House of Lu

Chicken Wings

Otter’s Chicken

2nd Place: Taco Mac Marietta

3rd Place: The Wing Cafe & Tap House

MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes

the lu family, house of lu

Chinese Restaurant

House of Lu

2nd Place: Wei Sichuan Authentic Chinese Cuisine

3rd Place: Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine

Curbside Pickup

Chick-fil-A

2nd Place: Otter’s Chicken

3rd Place: Marietta Diner

2400 Cobb Parkway SE, Smyrna 30080 Close to Cumberland Mall, SunTrust Park, and right off of I-75 470-308-3333 www.chowkingcobb.com

CHOW TIME • NORCROSS 2055 Beaver Ruin Road, Ste. G www.chowkingnorcross.com

Come sample our Japanese sushi, Hong Kong noodle soup, Hibachi, and a variety of salads. With 250 items, we have a great selection of both Chinese & American food.

Lunch

Mon.-Fri ..................$10.99

Dinner Mon.-Fri. .................$15.49

All Day Sat. & Sun...$15.49

Open Dining Room

Featuring 17 bars, 250 items, jumbo shrimp, catfish, sushi bar, hibachi bar, noodle soup bar, salad bar, dessert bar, hot bbq grill & open kitchen.

Mon- Thurs., & Sun. close at 8:30 pm Fri & Sat. close at 9 pm

Celebrate your special events with us.

COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

“With 3 decades of experience in the restaurant business, we proudly preserve our passion for food with our family’s recipes.”

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Date Night Restaurant

1885 Grill- Acworth

2nd Place: House of Lu

3rd Place: Canoe

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Dessert

Honeysuckle

Biscuits & Bakery

2nd Place: Pie Bar (Marietta)

3rd Place Tie: Marietta Diner

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Doughnuts

Honeysuckle

Biscuits & Bakery

2nd Place: Dough in the Box Donuts

3rd Place: Krispy Kreme

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED Y COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Fine Dining

1885 Grill- Acworth

2nd Place: Canoe

3rd Place: Mac’s Chop House

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Food Truck

lil bites food truck

2nd Place: Gaston Street Eats Co. Food Truck

3rd Place: The Cheezy Truck

Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery

Fried Chicken

West Cobb Diner

2nd Place: Otter’s Chicken - 3625 Dallas Hwy #690 Marietta GA 30064

3rd Place: The Marietta Local

Ice Cream

Frozen Desser t

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

3795 Due West Rd NW Marietta GA 30064

2nd Place: Frozen Cow Creamery

3rd Place: Burgerfi Kennesaw

Indian Food

Taj Mahal Grill

2nd Place: Pinch Of Spice Indian Cuisine

3rd Place: Haveli Indian Cuisine in Marietta

BESTOF COBB

Italian Food

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: Piastra Restaurant

3rd Place: Pasta Bella

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED Y COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Japanese Food

Thaicoon & Sushi Bar

2nd Place: Volcano Steak & Sushi - Acworth

3rd Place: Miyako Hibachi Sushi & Steak House

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED

Kid-Friendly Restaurant

House of Lu

2nd Place: Otter’s Chicken - Marietta

3rd Place: MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED BY

Mediterranean Food

It’s Greek to Us

2nd Place: Jerusalem Bakery & Grill

3rd Place: Yeero Village

Mexican Food

La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant

2nd Place: MamiTaco

3rd Place: Taqueria tsunami

Local Coffee Shop

Cool Beans Coffee Roasters

2nd Place: Marietta Perks

3rd Place: Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery

“We aren’t a franchise. We aren’t a part of a larger brand. We’re just a neighborhood pizzeria. We are the token of this community.”

Michael Judvytis, co-owner pisano’s pizzeria & italian kitchen

House of Lu

APPETIZERS

TENDERS

CHICKEN TENDERS (5)

Seasoned with Lemon & Oregano $4.25

SINGLE KABOBS

Chicken / Beef / Pork / Shrimp

Served over Pita Bread with Homemade Tzatziki

SOUP OF THE DAY w/PITA

TZATZIKI

Yogurt, Cucumber, Garlic with Pita

HUMMUS

Chickpea Spread with Pita

BUFFALO CHICKEN TENDERS (5) $10.95 $11.95

PHILLY / BLT

Served with Fries Served with Fries

TURKEY BLT

(9inch Sub)

PHILLY CHEESE STEAK $9.95 $13.95

FAMOUS

Pita, Stu ed Grape leaves

GREEK POTATOES $6.95 $4.95 $8.95 $8.95 $11.95 $9.95

MELITZANOSALATA WITH PITA

Eggplant Salad & Pita

FETA & OLIVES DRIZZLED IN OLIVE OIL $9.95

SPANAKOPITA

DOLMADES with FETA $11.95

Spinach Pie

BAKED FETA with PITA

CALAMARI

Lightly Breaded & Fried

PEKELIA SAMPLER

Egg Plant, Hummus, Tzatziki, Spicy Feta, Spread

GRILLED MARINATED OCTOPUS

Grilled Octopus with Greek Seasoning & Lemon Twist

LARGE PORTIONS!

$11.95 $13.95 $15.95 $18.95

Served with SoftDrink

Chicken)

BURGERS

Served

WRAP FRIED FISH WRAP $11.95

LOUKANIKO

Authenic Greek Sausage

8oz BEEF HERCULES $11.95 $13.95

(Turkey or Veggie) BURGER

LARGE PORTIONS!

New Local Restaurant as of March 2021

Sac Burger

2nd Place: Melt Yard

3rd Place: Mac’s Chop House

Outdoor Dining

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: Burgerfi Kennesaw

3rd Place: Otter’s Chicken

Overall Local Restaurant

1885 Grill- Acworth

2nd Place: House of Lu

3rd Place: Henry’s Louisiana Grill

Pizza

Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

2nd Place: Antico Pizza Battery Park

3rd Place: Marietta Pizza Co

Sandwich Shop

Hoboken Cafe on Whitlock

2nd Place: BurgerFi Kennesaw

3rd Place: Jason’s Deli

1885 Grill

Seafood

1885 Grill- Acworth

2nd Place: Henry’s Louisiana Grill

3rd Place: Marietta Fish Market

Southern Food

West Cobb Diner

2nd Place: Gabriel’s Restaurant and Bakery

3rd Place: Daddy’s Country Kitchen

Steakhouse

1885 Grill- Acworth

2nd Place: Mac’s Chop House

3rd Place: Elevation Chophouse & Skybar

Sushi

Thaicoon & Sushi Bar

2nd Place: Kuroshio Sushi Bar and Grille

3rd Place: Sushiology

Thai Food

Thaicoon & Sushi Bar

2nd Place: Lemon Grass Thai Restaurant

3rd Place: Bangkok Cabin

West Cobb Diner

Assisted Living Facility

Sterling Estates of East Cobb Retirement Community Independent and Assisted Living

2nd Place: Cadence Marietta

3rd Place: Woodland Ridge Assisted Living

Barber Shop

Lenny’s Hair Salon

2nd Place: Square Cutz LLC

3rd Place: Barbearia

Cardiac Vascular Specialist

Dr. William Brown, MD

Wellstar Health System

2nd Place: Dr. Bruce Alayof - Wellstar

3rd Place: Dr. Dhaval Patel - Wellstar Cardiology

“Keep yourself and your loved ones healthy! At Lake City Chiropractic, our friendly and experienced staff will make sure you always feel comfortable and well-informed. Schedule your appointment today with ACWORTH’S CHIROPRACTOR.”

Chiropractic Group

Eaton Chiropractic

2nd Place: Porter Family Chiropractic Center

3rd Place: Bradford Family Chiropractic

Chiropractor

Dr. Andrew Payne Lake City Chiropractic

2nd Place: Dr. Debby Porter - Porter Chiropractic

3rd Place: Dr Ray Gaskey - Bradford Family Chiropractic

Cosmetic or Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Keith West Marietta Plastic Surgery

2nd Place: Dr. Seth A. Yellin Marietta Facial Plastic Surgery

3rd Place: Corey Harkins, M.D. Plastic Surgery Center of the South

Cosmetic or Plastic Surger y Group

Spa La Paz

2nd Place: Marietta Plastic Surgery

3rd Place: New You Aesthetic

“A group practice of plastic surgeons skilled in all types of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.”

Dental Group

Verde Pointe Dental Associates

2nd Place: Atlanta West Dentistry

3rd Place: Gilreath Family Dentistry

Dental Hygienist

Christine Grenon

Verde Pointe Dental

2nd Place: Beth Parker - Atlanta West Dentistry

3rd Place: Amanda Landers

Gilreath Family Dentistry

Dentist

Dr. Kirk Kimmerling

Verde Pointe Dental Associates

2nd Place: Dr. Travis Watson

Atlanta West Dentistry

3rd Place: Dr. Paul Gilreath

Gilreath Family Dental

Verde Pointe Dental Associates

Dermatologist

Dr. Elizabeth Richwine

Marietta Dermatology

2nd Place: Dr. Ope Ofodile - Dermatology & Surgery Associates of North Atlanta

3rd Place: Dr. Jennifer Jones

Skin Cancer Specialists

“At Marietta Dermatology, we strive to provide patients with the highest level of skin care possible. Our Dermatologists and Physician Assistants have extensive training and expertise in diagnosing and treating all types of skin diseases and skin cancer.”

Marietta Dermatology

Dr. Richwine at Marietta Dermatology

Dermatology Group

Marietta Dermatology & The Skin Cancer Center

2nd Place: Skin Cancer Specialists, P.C. & Aesthetic Center

3rd Place: Dermatology and Surgery Specialists of North Atlanta (DESSNA)

Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist

Dr. David Parks

Wellstar ENT

2nd Place: Alexis Gozalez - Ear, Nose, Throat Institute, East Cobb

3rd Place: Dr. Ryan Kauffman Northwest ENT & Allergy

Eye Care Group

Marietta Eye Clinic

2nd Place: Cobb Eye Center

3rd Place: Eye Consultants of Atlanta Cumberland

COMPREHENSIVE SKIN CARE ALL IN ONE CONVENIENT LOCATION

DESSNA DETECTION: ABCDE'S OF MELANOMA

SCHEDULE YOUR SKIN CHECK TODAY

DESSNA AESTHETICS

Facials

Stella Allure

2nd Place: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

3rd Place: Élon Salon

Family Physician

Dr. Ryan Cantwell

Wellstar Medical Group

Internal & Family Medicine

2nd Place: Dr. Carolyn Smallwood

Wellstar Internal Medicine White Circle

3rd Place: Dr. Gregory J. Matechak

Kennesaw Mountain Medical Group

Fitness Center/Gym

Wellstar Health Place

2nd Place: Burn Boot Camp Kennesaw

3rd Place: BlazeFit

Gastroenterologist

Dr Gregory Nesmith

2nd Place: Dr Sachim Goel

3rd Place: Dr. Anna Longacre

General Practice Doctor

Dr. Carolyn Smallwood

Wellstar Internal Medicine

White Circle

2nd Place: Dr. Ryan Cantwell

WellStar Medical Group Internal and Family Medicine

3rd Place: Meenakshi Kakarala, MD

“Stella Allure was created to help others look and feel great. It’s a place for you to come in, relax, and renew your body and mind. Rejuvenation is the ultimate goal and healthy skin starts here.”

Stella allure

Stella Allure

Hair Extensions

Elon Salon

2nd Place: Nina John Salon

3rd Place: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

Hair Removal Services

Stella Allure

2nd Place: Élon Salon

3rd Place: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

Hair Salon

Elon Salon

2nd Place: Precision Cutters Salon @ Stella Allure Spa

3rd Place: Nina John Salon

Hair St ylist

Nina John

2nd Place: Dee Dee Hightower - Elon Salon

3rd Place: Collie- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

Nina John

Hearing Center

Marietta Hearing Center

2nd Place: Peachtree Hearing

3rd Place: The Hearing Center @ ENT Institute

Hearing Professional

Dr. Amanda Thomas

Marietta Hearing Center

2nd Place: Melissa Wikoff

Peachtree Hearing - East Cobb

3rd Place: Dr. Brittney Tardy

Marietta Hearing Center

Home Care (non-medical)

Skylark Home Care of Cobb County

2nd Place: Visiting Angels

3rd Place: A.G. Rhodes Cobb

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Makeup Ar tist

PRESENTED

Leslie Crowell- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

2nd Place: Brandee Shields- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

3rd Place: Ansley Johnson - Extended Beauty Bar

Massage Therapist

BESTOF COBB BESTOF COBB PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

BESTOF COBB PRESENTED

Kozue Cunningham, Wellstar Health Place

2nd Place: Aimee Townsend - Bradford Family Chiropractic

3rd Place: Keisha McClure at Health Place

Memor y Care Facility

Sterling Estates of West Cobb

Retirement Community The Grande

2nd Place: Woodland Ridge

communities

Nail Salon

Elon Salon

2nd Place: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

3rd Place: Parisian Nail Salon

Nail Technician

Angelina Sutjuwani

Elon Salon

2nd Place: Leslie Crowell- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

3rd Place: Brandee Shields- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

Nursing Home

A.G. Rhodes Cobb

2nd Place: Presbyterian Village

3rd Place: WellstarAtherton Place

A.G. Rhodes Cobb

OB/GYN

Dr. Angel Paas, MD

Kennesaw

Kennesaw Gynecology

2nd Place: Dr. Heather Quaile NPThe Show Center

3rd Place: Dr Randall Webb

OB/GYN Group

Kennesaw Gynecology

2nd Place: Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.

3rd Place: Unified Premier Women’s Care

best ob/gyn - Dr. Angel Paas

best ob/gyn group - Kennesaw Gynecology

We are beyond blessed by your continued love and support

best cosmetic or plastic surgery group

kennesawgynecology.com / spalapaz.com

Kennesaw Gynecology

Occupational Therapist

Rachael LopezPineapple Wellness Therapy Services

2nd Place: Joey Shaw, Physio

3rd Place: Mary Elizabeth Bonds-Organic Therapy Solutions, Acworth, GA

Optometrist & Ophthalmologist

Ranan B Stimpson OD

2nd Place: Marietta Eye Clinic

3rd Place: J. Michael Roach, M.D. Eye Consultants of Atlanta, Cumberland Parkway

Or thodontic Group

Due West Orthodontics

2nd Place: OrthoZone

3rd Place: West Cobb Orthodontics

“Smile like you mean it.” due west orthodontics

Orthodontist

Dr. Ashley Smith

Due West Orthodontics

2nd Place: Dr. Doug Singleton - Orthozone

3rd Place: Dr. Brenna ChristensenWest Cobb Orthodontics

Or thopaedic Group

Pinnacle Orthopaedics

2nd Place: Resurgens Orthopaedics

3rd Place: Piedmont Orthopedics|OrthoAtlanta

Orthopaedist

Dr. R. Brandon Burris

Pinnacle Orthopaedics

2nd Place: Dr. Donald FowlerPiedmont Orthopedics|OrthoAtlanta

3rd Place: William Dean Terrell, MD - Pinnacle

Personal Trainer

Samantha Saunders (Burn Boot Camp)

2nd Place: Kyle Brown- Wellstar Health Place

3rd Place: Jonathan Walker, Blaze Fit

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Pharmacist

Ryan ChaversThomas Drugs

2nd Place: Connor O’Daniels - Publix Shallowford

3rd Place: Thomas Sherrer, PharmD - Poole’s Pharmacy

Pharmacy

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Drug Store

Thomas Drugs

2nd Place: Poole’s Pharmacy

3rd Place: Publix Super Market at Shallowford

Physical Therapist

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Amy Gross - Acworth Wellstar Health Park

2nd Place: Jason Parish - Venture Physical Therapy

3rd Place: R. Darin Durell - Venture Physical Therapy & Hand Therapy

Physical Therapy Group

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED B COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Venture Physical Therapy and Hand TherapyWest Cobb

2nd Place: Resurgens Orthopaedics

3rd Place: Pinnacle Orthopaedics

Dr. R. Brandon Burris with patient. Pinnacle Orthopaedics

Podiatry

Dr. Stephanie Michael

2nd Place: Matthew Ward

3rd Place: WellStar Podiatry - Dr. Ashish Kapila

Psychologist

Dr. Mark RolandPsychological Consultants

2nd Place: Ryan Breshears, PhD

3rd Place: Dr. Lindsey Swanson Schriefer

“We offer you an opportunity to face your challenges and difficulties constructively and confidently, freeing you to enjoy what life has to offer.”

Psychological Consultants of Marietta, PC

Pulmonary Medicine

Dr. Brion J. Lock

2nd Place: Dr. Samuel Szumstein

3rd Place: Eduardo Jose Molinary

Spa

Stella Allure

2nd Place: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

3rd Place: Spa La Paz

Tanning Salon

Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

2nd Place: Body Glow Custom Spray Tanning

3rd Place: Tropic Tan Salon

Therapist

2nd Place: Amanda Marks, LPC, CPCS, RYTResilient Counseling

3rd Place Tie: Sarah Zipfel- Restoration 23 Counseling

Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique

Weight Loss Clinic

Bubolo

2nd

3rd Place: A Healthier You- Medical Fitness at Wellstar Health Place

Yoga/Barre

Pilates Studio

gruvnYOGA Soul Center

2nd Place: Peach Out Power Yoga

3rd Place: Wellstar Health Place

Bubolo Medical, LLC

“We believe in family fun. We believe in celebrating life’s moments together. We believe in combining activity and an energetic spirit for friends and family to experience. Where social connectivity, activity and celebration give way to joy, exhilaration, growth and wellness.”

College/University

Local Professor

Emily Berreth

Kennesaw State University

2nd Place: Scott Nowak

Kennesaw State University

3rd Place: Jan Britt- KSU- CPE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED

Bir thday Party Venue

Altitude Trampoline Park

2nd Place: MielkeWay MANOR

3rd Place: Adventure Air Sports Kennesaw

Dance Studio

Murray Arts Academy at Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: Impact Dance of Atlanta

3rd Place: The Spirit of Dance

Day Care

Primrose School at Oregon Park

2nd Place: West Marietta Cooperative Preschool

3rd Place: North Cobb Christian School

Our vision and purpose at Primrose School at Oregon Park is to create a reliable, trustworthy, and nurturing community while encourag ing compassion and provid ing an intentional balanced learning foundati on. Our entire Primrose Oregon Park t eam works continously and d iligently to deliver a wow experience _for the West Cobb community and the c hild ren we serve

770.421.0369

PrimroseOregonPark.com

3690 Larget Way NW Marietta, GA 30064

ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK

Primrose School at Oregon Park

Mount Paran Christian School

BESTOF

COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

The School Box

2nd Place: Lakeshore Learning Store

3rd Place Tie: Solutionz, Inc.

3rd Place Tie: The culturorama LLC

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

Karate/Mar tial Ar ts School

Yongsa Martial Arts

2nd Place: Dae Han Martial Arts

3rd Place: Westside Martial Arts

Music Instruction

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED B COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: School of Rock - West Cobb

Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Mike Rossitch Rossitch Pediatric Dentistry

2nd Place: Dr. Aaron Schwartz Schwartz Dentistry for Children

3rd Place: Dr. Martin Krieger

Atlanta Pediatric Dental Specialists

Pediatric Group

Wellstar Pediatrics at West Cobb

2nd Place: Wellstar KenMar Pediatrics

3rd Place: Wellstar Kennestone Pediatrics

Pediatrician

Dr. Amy Kewin

2nd Place: Diedre Greene

3rd Place: Dr. Daniel Saade - Wellstar

Performing Ar ts Program

Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: The Walker School

3rd Place: School of Rock West Cobb

Pre-School

Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: The Walker School

3rd Place: South Cobb Early Learning Center

Private School

Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: The Walker School

3rd Place: St. Joseph Catholic School

Mount Paran Christian School

BY

Thank you Cobb County for Voting us Best Youth Sports Organization

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

Please visit our website www.psyb.com and follow us on Facebook and lnstagram. Also come visit a game, we play Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Public School Elementary

Kemp Elementary School

2nd Place: Marietta Center for Advanced Academics

3rd Place: Due West Elementary School

Public School High School

Kennesaw Mountain High School

2nd Place: Walton High School

3rd Place: Harrison High School

Public School Middle School

Dickerson Middle School

2nd Place: Pine Mountain Middle School

3rd Place: Floyd Middle School

Kemp Elementary School Administration

Teacher

Angela Coleman - Mount Paran Christian School

2nd Place: Kevin Cunane Mount Paran Christian School

3rd Place: Dr. Joanne JezequelKennesaw Mountain High School

Trade Technical School

Chattahoochee Technical College - Marietta Campus

2nd Place: Georgia Trade School

3rd Place: Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy

Youth Sports Organization

Powder Springs Youth Baseball

2nd Place: Oregon Park

3rd Place: West Cobb Girls Softball Lost Mountain Park

Chattahoochee Technical College - Marietta Campus

Chattahoochee Technical College - Marietta Campus

Written By JON STYF

Good Mews provides personal touch in CAT ADOPTION

Kendra Ledlow knows that cats can have many of the same qualities as humans.

The Good Mews director of operations recognizes that each cat has a personality, life experiences, both strengths and weaknesses and sometimes health issues that make each cat unique.

That’s why Good Mews operates a kitty buddy program for their cats that need help through the adoption process, whether it be because they have a health issue or they are just shy, in need of a familiar face.

A volunteer is paired with a kitten and that volunteer is the familiar face that helps the kitten through the process.

“It’s almost like the Big Brother/ Big Sister program,” Ledlow said.

Good Mews won the vote for top Pet Adoption Agency in the 2023 Best of Cobb Contest.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic adjustments, adoptions have accelerated. In 2020, they jumped from more than 100 in a year to 579.

Then, over the past few years, that trend continued with 601 in 2021 and 642 in 2022 heading into Good Mews’ 35th anniversary this month.

After all of the shelter’s cats went to foster homes during parts of 2020, some things have returned to how they were before and some have advanced, such as the online

ABOVE: Nearly 100 furry friends are sheltered at Good Mews and are looking for their forever homes.

TOP LEFT: Good Mews started a spay/ neuter program in 2018 that has grown from 200 surgeries in 2018 to 3,569 last year.

TOP MIDDLE: Good Mews top Pet Adoption Agency in the 2023 Best of Cobb Awards. More than 11,700 cats have been adopted since Good Mews opened in 1988.

TOP RIGHT: Good Mews staff and animals lovers alike say that cats can have many of the same qualities as humans.

BOTTOM LEFT: Good Mews, located at 3805 Robinson Road in Marietta, has a capacity of 100 cats at the shelter with another up to 50 at the shelter’s 45 available volunteer foster homes.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The main room at Good Mews is a popular spot for pets and owners to meet up before adoption during weekend adoption events from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

systems that help Good Mews do everything from adopt to volunteer.

At any one time, Good Mews has a capacity of 100 cats at the shelter, located at 3805 Robinson Road in Marietta, and the remainder – up to 50 - at the 45 available foster homes. Many can be viewed online in what Good Mews calls the “CATalog” and potential foster homes can register on the shelter’s website at goodmews.org under the volunteer tab.

After filling out the paperwork, an appointment can be setup for a cat meet and greet to enable an adoption. Ledlow said that some are surprised that the cat they came in hoping to adopt isn’t the cat that they end up choosing. Or the one that chooses them.

“We’re special because we treat every

cat as an individual,” Ledlow said. “We try to prioritize quality over quantity.”

It’s a process where the cat and owners have a choice and can see how they work together. Good Mews assists in that process with a questionnaire to help match owners with the right pet.

The shelter has adoption events from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays or weekdays by appointment.

There are usually anywhere from five to eight volunteers at Good Mews for the weekend events of the 30 volunteers on the adoption committee.

“Sometimes the cats just pick the people and nobody has to really work too hard for that other than the cat picking out their person,” Ledlow said.

While at the shelter, cats live in a cage-free environment as they wait to become one of the more than 11,700 cats adopted since Good Mews opened in 1988.

“Rescue is, in general, tinted with a sadness,” said Good Mews Animal Foundation Board of Directors President Elizabeth Finch. “But this is a happy place, with cats who are so well taken care of. We fully believe that a cat’s environment while they are awaiting their forever home plays a crucial part in their overall well-being.”

Unlike other pet adoption facilities, Finch said that Good Mews hasn’t seen many adoptions returned. In some ways, that’s the nature of adopting a cat. But it’s also a testament to getting things right before the adoption takes place.

Finch said that the board is charged with creating a vision for the future, which involves expanding services and looking for how that expansion can take place through donations.

“If we can increase our support, that’s going to mean way more kitties get helped, way more community members get helped, especially those who need it the most,” Finch said.

Good Mews currently has 700 active volunteers, with 350 putting in at least a couple hours a week and some far more than that.

Ledlow said that Good Mews’ mission is “finding good homes for good kitties,” which means ensuring they have the best process in place to get their cats from area animal controls, where they are at the highest risk of being euthanized, into the right home.

She said that Good Mews has also expanded its spay/ neuter efforts with his veterinary services, going from 200 surgeries in 2018 when the spay/neuter program began to 3,569 last year.

Nearly 70% of the cats that arrive at the rescue are not yet fixed, but Good Mews also provides the services to other rescue groups as well as feral cats in the community, working to control the population even in cases where the cats are returned to their colony. The shelter also began offering low cost spay/neuter to the general public last year.

“The goal is to put ourselves out of business,” Finch said, saying that should be a nonprofit goal everywhere as they aim to “maximize our efficiency” in helping the cats and pet owners who need them.

Dog Park

Swift Cantrell Park

2nd Place: Oregon Park

3rd Place Tie: Dog Park at Sweat Mountain

3rd Place Tie: Pitner Road Dog Park

Pet Adoption

Good

2nd Place: Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue and Adoption

3rd Place: Forgotten Paws Dog Rescue

Pet Groomer

2nd Place: Furrever Fluffy Grooming and Spaw

3rd Place: Mom & Pups

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED Y COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

Pet Sitter/Kennel

Marietta Doggy Daycare

2nd Place: Bark n’ Bunk

3rd Place Tie: Kennesaw Mountain Animal Hospital

3rd Place Tie: Miller Vet Play and Stay

Pet Supply Store

Bark Street Petopia

2nd Place: Mom & Pups

3rd Place: PetSmart

Pet Training

Marietta Doggy Daycare

2nd Place: Dog School 101, Inc.

3rd Place: Frank Ortiz, Cedarcrest Animal Hospital

“The staff at Bark Street Petopia is committed to continually learning more about pet care, products, and nutrition so we can provide you with the best products and services around.”

Bark Street Petopia

Marietta Doggy Daycare

Kennesaw Mountain Animal Hospital

Veterinarian

Dr. Julian Peckich

Marietta Vet Clinic

2nd Place: Dr. Shaina Preis- VCA Terrill Mill Animal Hospital

3rd Place: Dr. Mitzi Schepps, Wellness Waggin’ Acupuncture

Veterinar y Group

Marietta Vet Clinic

2nd Place: Kennesaw Mountain Animal Hospital

3rd Place: Miller Mobile Veterinary Services and Animal Hospital

Dr. Julian Peckich, Marietta vet clinic

Bark Street Petopia

Accountant

John Dickson, CPA, CVA, CFP - Henssler CPAs & Advisers

2nd Place: Post Accountants

3rd Place: Craig Brown AgencyIndependent Insurance Agency

Apartment Community

Orchard Mill Apartments

2nd Place: The Brumby Lofts

3rd Place: Cortland at the Battery Atlanta

Appraiser

Hank Manning - Manning Appraisal Service, LLC

2nd Place: Jeff Bass, Bass Houston

3rd Place: Hank Miller - The Hank Miller Team

Bank

Capital City Bank

2nd Place: Ameris Bank

3rd Place: Credit Union of Georgia

With more banking possibilities than ever before, your Capital City Bankers appreciate the choice you make to bank with us. We also thank you for choosing Capital City Bank as the winner of the

REAL ESTATE & FINANCE

Commercial Real Estate Company

Crowder Realty, LLC

2nd Place: Manning Properties

3rd Place: Johnny Walker Realty

Credit Union

Credit Union of Georgia

2nd Place: Associated Credit Union

3rd Place: LGE Community Credit Union

Credit Union of Georgia

Home Builder

Traton Homes

2nd Place: David Gilreath Homes

3rd Place: Benjamin E. Burney - Uppercut Homes

Insurance Agent (Health)

David Bottoms

The Bottoms Group

2nd Place: State Farm: Shannon Perren

3rd Place: Secern Financial

Mor tgage Services

Capital City Home Loans

2nd Place: Holly Walther Lending Team

3rd Place: Motto Mortgage Henssler

Neighborhood

Lee’s Crossing

2nd Place: Whitlock Heights

3rd Place: Overlook at Marietta Country Club

Real Estate Agent

Alicia Sipsy Traton Homes

2nd Place: Jennifer Martin - Ansley Real Estate

Christie’s International Real Estate

3rd Place: Amanda Warren - Keller Williams

Real Estate Broker

Jaydee Austin Smith

Ansley Real Estate

Christie’s International

2nd Place: Carey Cox - Johnny Walker Realty

3rd Place: Jim Glover - Atlanta Fine Homes

Sotheby’s International Realty

Real Estate Company

Ansley Atlanta Real Estate

Christie’s International

Real Estate- Marietta

2nd Place: Johnny Walker Realty

3rd Place: Atlanta Fine Homes

Sotheby’s International Realty

“A neighborhood to call home. We live here. We work here. We know our stuff when it comes to neighborhoods. Let us show you the way.”

ansley real estate

Real Estate Team

Conyngham & Wernz Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International Real Estate

2nd Place: Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team, Keller Williams

3rd Place: The Grattafiori Group - Keller Williams

Retirement Community Sterling Estates of West Cobb Retirement Community - Independent and Assisted Living

2nd Place: Holbrook Acworth

3rd Place: Presbyterian Village

A Continuing Care Retirement Community offering comprehensive services for your needs now and in the future. For couples, the continuum of care provides increased health support if that becomes necessary while allowing both of you to remain in the same community.

With a variety of care options, Presbyterian Village can be your home for a lifetime: Residential Living • Supportive Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing

Adult Day Care

Skylark

Attorney-Elder

Attorney-Worker’s

Personal

BESTOF COBB

Attorney

Bankruptcy

Ron White

2nd Place: Soo Hong

3rd Place: Ian Falcone

2023WINNER BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

Attorney- Civil

Justin O’Dell - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard

2nd Place: Chase Swanson - Jones & Swanson

3rd Place: Nick Schnyder- Nick Schnyder Law Firm

Attorney

Corporate

Nick Booth - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard

2nd Place: Gregory Shenton - Shenton Law

3rd Place: Jennifer McNeely - Curly Girl Law

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZNE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZNE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

Cobb Superior Courthouse

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Attorney- Criminal

Kim Keheley Frye Frye Law Group

2nd Place: Phyllis Collins - Phyllis Law

3rd Place: Joel C. Pugh - Joel Pugh and Associates

Attorney

Employment & Labor

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Gregory Shenton Shenton Law

2nd Place: Jeff Daxe - Moore Ingram Johnson & Steele

3rd Place: Linwood Gunn - The Gunn Law Firm

Attorney

Family/Divorce

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED Y COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Alyssa Blanchard - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard

2nd Place: Michael Manely - The Manely Firm, P.C.

3rd Place: Kimberly (Kimi) Wise Gentry Law Firm LLC

“We

when the government wants to jail you.”

frye law group, llc

O’Dell, o’neal, hungerford & blanchard

“Our practice areas include Construction, Corporate/ Employment Matters, Election Law, Family/Domestic Relations Law, Personal Injury, Probate Law, Real Estate/Property Law and Professional Negligence and Malpractice.”

Attorney

Individual

Leslie O’Neal - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard

2nd Place: William King - The Manely Firm PC

3rd Place: Kimi Wise - Gentry Law Firm

Attorney

Personal Injur y Nick Schnyder - Law Firm

2nd Place: Chase Swanson - Jones & Swanson

3rd Place: Johnson & Alday, LLC - Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation

“The KBA takes great pride in being a part of such a thriving and vital community. We are committed to doing our part to help Kennesaw continue to grow. We actively seek out partnerships with schools and businesses alike to drive growth and development. We offer over 50 opportunities a year to network and interact with others in your community.”

Attorney

Real Estate

Steve Crane Crane Elder Law Firm

2nd Place: Smith, Tumlin, McCurley & Patrick, P. C.

3rd Place: Amee Davis - Davis & Associates, Attorneys as Law, LLC

Attorney

Tax & Estate

Leslee Hungerford - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard

2nd Place: Shelley Elder - Crane Elder Law Firm

3rd Place: William King - The Manely Firm

Business Association

Kennesaw Business Association

2nd Place: Marietta Business Association

3rd Place: Smyrna Business Association Car Wash Best Auto Detailing

2nd Place: Pro Shine Auto Detail Salon

3rd Place: Tidal Wave Auto Spa

“The CitruSolution process is completely unique in the carpet cleaning industry. We clean carpeting using a powerful spot remover that we make ourselves from citrus peels. This is applied over your entire carpet then scrubbed to wick dust and dirt up and out. Cleans Better, Dries Faster and Smells Great!”

Citrusolution carpet cleaning

Carpet Cleaning

CitruSolution Carpet Cleaning for West & South Cobb

2nd Place: Jonquil Rug Cleaning Company

3rd Place: Chem-Dry Atlanta (Marietta)

Direct Mail Marketing

Money Pages of Cobb County

2nd Place: Atlanta Business Circulators

3rd Place: Welcome Home

Dr y Cleaner

Whitlock Kleener

2nd Place: Quality Cleaners

3rd Place: Grape Cleaners

BEST FLORIST

We

“Faith Designs

Florist is a full service florist, here for all your floral needs at a reasonable price! There are multiple designers here who can come up with cheerful, comforting , romantic, seasonal , artistic , vibrant, unique & custom designs. We have a large selection of plants, dish gardens, balloons, fresh cut flowers and candy.”

faith designs florist

Electrician

Powers Electrical Solutions

2nd Place: Bulldog Electrical Contractors, Inc

3rd Place: Ampt Electric

Facilit y Cleaning

PCT Clean

2nd Place: Stratus Building Solutions

3rd Place: Maid Right of Marietta

Florist

Faith Designs Florist

2nd Place: K Mike Whittle

3rd Place: PearTree Home Florist Gifts

Home Securit y

LOUD Security Systems

2nd Place: SafePath Security

3rd Place: Alarm Monitoring Service of Atlanta - AMSA

LOUD Security Systems

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED B COBBLFEMAGAZNE

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLFEMAGAZINE

Lawn Care

Old Marietta Landscaping

2nd Place: Blades Lawnmower Shop

3rd Place: Oak Hill Landscape Group Inc

Limo Ser vice

Empress Elite Limousine

2nd Place: A&C Limousine Service

3rd Place: Airport Star Shuttle

BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED B COBBLFEMAGAZNE

Manufacturer FiteBac Companies

2nd Place: Win-Tech, Inc

3rd Place: GLOCK, Inc.

Old Marietta Landscaping

Meal Prep Ser vices

Eatin’ Fresh Kennesaw

2nd Place: Carriage House Catering

3rd Place: Prepped & Ready

Moving Ser vices

Charlie’s Angels Movers

2nd Place: Elite Moving Solutions LLC

3rd Place: Tomahawk Moving & Storage

2nd Place: We Thrive on Riverside Renters Association

3rd Place: DAVIS DIRECTION FOUNDATION

“At O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard, our legal team is ready to support your legal needs with outstanding expertise and service. Our attorneys are experienced in serving clients on both ends of construction cases and will be by your side to find the best resolution.”

O’Dell, o’neal, hungerford & blanchard

Overall Attorney

Justin O’Dell - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford, Blanchard

2nd Place: Michael Manely - The Manely Firm

3rd Place: John P. FarrellThe Farrell Law Firm, P.C.

Overall Law Firm

O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford, Blanchard

2nd Place: The Manely Firm, P.C.

3rd Place: The Farrell Law Firm, PC

Pest Control

All Pro Pest Services, Inc.

2nd Place: Northwest Exterminating

3rd Place: Barnes Termite & Pest Control

Photographer

Karli Ryan Photography

2nd Place: Liz by Design Photography, LLC

3rd Place: Casey McMinn Photography

Plumber

Superior Plumbing Services

2nd Place: The Pink Plumber

3rd Place: Trinity Plumbing

Karli Ryan Photography

“CUSTOMER REVIEW”

FIVE-STAR ALL THE WAY!

A very professional and GREAT local business! Quality all the way! My carpet and rugs look amazing. Highly recommend. -

Jonquil Rug Cleaning Company

Swimming Pools

AquaRama Pools & Spas

2nd Place Tie: DC pool service powder springs

2nd Place Tie: Cutting Edge Landscape

Travel Agency

Blue Pineapple Travel

2nd Place: Celtic Hearts Travel

3rd Place Tie: Family Sized Vacations

3rd Place Tie: Wandering Shoes LLC : Neelmani’s Travel Agency

Tree Removal

Northcutt Tree Service

2nd Place: Travis the Tree Trimmer

3rd Place: Quality Diversified Services

Window/Door Company

Window World of Atlanta

2nd Place: Visionaire Windows

3rd Place: EXOVATIONS Design Center

AquaRama Pools & Spas

Travis the Tree Trimmer

Written By LISA MOWRY

This 2023 Best of Cobb winner celebrates eight years on historic Marietta Square

Dapper Boozer McClure is known around town for being well-dressed.

Vibrant, hand-crafted ties from the brand Brackish are made of peacock and pheasant feathers.

“I remind customers that when you had a big box of crayons as a child, you didn’t just play with two colors,” says Boozer, a fan of colorful ties or pocket squares as a way to liven up an outfit.

TOP:

Inside the store, displays of clothing and products are thoughtfully arranged in the historic building.

Stylish shirts from brands such as Haupt, Forrest Lennard, Michael’s, and Mizzen + Main offer a variety of patterns and colors.

Antique Store

White Rabbit Cottage

2nd Place: Marietta Antique Mall

3rd Place: Marina Marina

“I had always thought Marietta Square would be a perfect location because the dynamics of the Square were changing rapidly, and there hadn’t been a men’s shop there since Johnny Walker’s closed in the early ‘90s,” Boozer says.

Backyard Furnishings

White Rabbit Cottage

2nd Place: Casual Image Furniture

3rd Place: Acorn Home & Garden

Boutique

Pineapple Porch Boutique

2nd Place: Urban Renewal Consignment

3rd Place: White Rabbit Cottage

Bridal Store

Encore Formals and Bridal

2nd Place: Serendipity Bridal + Events

3rd Place: David’s Bridal Kennesaw GA

Plastic Empire

2nd Place: Marietta Antique Mall

3rd Place: Robinson’s Coins

Consignment Store

Urban Renewal

Consignment

2nd Place: Marina Marina

3rd Place: Uptown Cheapskate

Depar tment Store

Target

2nd Place: Belk - 3636 Dallas Hwy #100 Marietta GA 30064

3rd Place: Macy’s

Fabric Shop

Fabric & Fringe Warehouse

2nd Place: JOANN Fabric and Crafts

3rd Place: DM Interiors & Design

SINCE 1875

Floor Covering Store

Fleming Flooring & Design Centers

2nd Place: Floor & Decor

3rd Place: Enhance Floors

Frame Shop

Smyrna Frame & Art Gallery

2nd Place: Hobby Lobby - 1570 Crater Lake Dr Kennesaw GA 30152

3rd Place: Red Cockerill Gallery

Furniture

White Rabbit Cottage

2nd Place: The Rustic Market

3rd Place: DM Interiors & Design

Garden Center

Pike Nurseries

2nd Place: Lost Mountain Nursery

3rd Place Tie: Busy B Plant Supply

3rd Place Tie: Neighbors Feed & Seed Supply Co

Gift Store

Pineapple Porch Boutique

2nd Place: White Rabbit Cottage

3rd Place: Marina Marina

My hope is that you will find unique items in our store that can fill a special space in your home or in your heart or can be given to someone as a gift for a special occasion. We look forward to seeing you in our store soon!

jeanette, owner - pineapple porch boutique

Pineapple Porch Boutique

Jewelr y Store

Blackwell’s Jewelers Inc

2nd Place: Becky

3rd Place: Cumberland Diamond Exchange

Lawn Equipment

Blades Lawnmower Shop

2nd Place: Cobb Hardware

3rd Place: Mableton Trading Company & Outdoor Power

Local Bicycle Store

Rooted Trading Co

2nd Place: Comet Trail Cycles

3rd Place: Free-Flite Bicycles

Our jewelry is for the discriminating jewelry buyer, crafted with passion, and designed with quality. As a family owned and operated business, we value the importance of treating each customeras such. Come visit our lovely showroom and experience the Blackwell’s difference!

Blackwell’s jewelers

2023WINNER BESTOF COBB

PRESENTED BY COBBLIFEMAGAZINE

Men’s Clothing

Square Threads

2nd Place: Hodge Army Navy

3rd Place: J Lancaster Clothing

Shoe Store

Foot Solutions Acworth

2nd Place: Urban Renewal Consignment

3rd Place: Big Peach Running Co. - Kennesaw

Square Threads

MOVIES

N THE SUPER MARIO BROS.

In theaters April 7

An animated feature based on the popular Super Mario Bros. video game

N RENFIELD

In theaters April 14

In this modern horror-comedy, Nicholas Hoult stars as Renfield, the loyal but tortured aide to history’s most narcissistic boss, Dracula (Oscar® winner Nicolas Cage). Every day, Renfield is forced to procure his master’s human prey and do his bidding, no matter how embarrassing. But now, after centuries of servitude, Renfield has decided to find a life outside the shadow of The Prince of Darkness; if only he can figure out how to end his codependency.

N CHEVALIER

In theaters April 7

Based on the incredible true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, Bologne rises to improbable heights in French society as a celebrated violinistcomposer and fencer, complete with an illfated love affair and a falling out with Marie Antoinette herself and her court.

STREAMING

N A TOURIST’S GUIDE

to Love

Streaming on Netflix April 27

After an unexpected break up, a travel executive accepts an assignment to go undercover and learn about the tourist

industry in Vietnam. Along the way she finds adventure and romance with her Vietnamese expat tour guide when they decide to reroute the tour bus in order to explore life and love off the beaten path.

N QUASI

Streaming on Hulu April 20

The story of a hapless hunchback who only yearns for love, but finds himself in the middle of a murderous feud between the Pope and the King of France when each orders the hunchback to kill the other.

N JUNIPER

Streaming on VOD, April 4

Ruth is a worldly former war correspondent now bored in retirement with a drinking problem and a newly fractured leg. Sam is her unruly grandson, recently kicked out of boarding school and grieving the death of his mother. When the two are brought together under the same roof, they form an unexpected bond.

BOOKS

N CHAIN GANG ALL STARS

By Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Releases April 4

The Criminal Action Penal Entertainment is a highly controversial prison program that allows people to fight to the death for their freedom. Follow two chain gang all-stars, Loretta Thurwar and Hamara “Hurricane Staxxx” Stacker, as they do what it takes to survive while still trying to maintain their humanity. Thurwar is only a few fights away from securing her freedom. But in a system this corrupt, will she ever really get out?

N SISTERS OF THE LOST NATION

By Nick Medina

Releases April 18

Anna Horn is being haunted – and possibly hunted – by an entity from an old tribal myth that follows her wherever she goes. What’s more, women are disappearing in alarming numbers across the reservation where she lives. Does the entity have anything to do with the disappearances, or is it something newer and potentially more sinister? Anna isn’t the only one searching for answers, but when her sister, Grace, also disappears, she will do whatever it takes to get her back.

N HAPPY PLACE

By Emily Henry

Releases April 25

Wyn and Harriet broke up 6 months ago, and they still haven’t told anyone. Mostly because that would mean discussing why they broke up. Plus, they’ve always been considered couple goals to all their friends, and they wouldn’t want any of them to lose faith in love, right? Instead, Wyn and Harriet are choosing to fake it through the annual get-together with their friends in Maine. Even if it means lying to everyone and sharing a bed.

Circles Cobb names executive director, aims to combat poverty

The newly formed Cobb County chapter of a national nonprofit that works to bring people out of poverty has named Barbara Garner of Marietta as its executive director.

Circles USA has over 80 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The new local chapter, Circles Cobb, was established last year by a board of community nonprofit and business leaders.

Board Chair Holly Tuchman said when the founding board members discovered Circles USA, they “all decided that this would be a great program to bring to Cobb County.”

In the later half of 2022, Tuchman said she and Vice Chair Jeri Barr joined the board and moved forward with finding a director who could lead the organization.

“At the end of the day, we were really looking for somebody who had a passion for people but who also had a business mind,” Tuchman said. “It may be a nonprofit, but you’re still running a business to a certain extent.”

Tuchman said the board wanted the executive director to be extremely familiar with the community.

“Cobb is a very unique community,” she said. “I think we have great businesses, a great chamber and we have some of the best schools in the country. But we also have pockets of poverty.

“So we wanted to find somebody who knows the community and the community knows them... someone who had a passion for this work.”

Tuchman said the group imple-

mented a task force, comprised of six board members, to lead the search.

“The bottom line is, I 100% believe in the mission,” Garner said. “Just being able to step in and lead an organization that will be addressing the community’s needs is huge.”

Garner said Circles USA differentiates itself from other nonprofits because the organization not only helps families and individuals move out of poverty, but it also provides a team of mentors who offer long-term guidance and resource outlets for participants to stay out of poverty.

“I think the nonprofit landscape here in Cobb is really robust,” Garner said. “...The thing that’s different about Circles USA is, it’s really pulling the community together.”

Garner added that Circles USA chapters — and now Circles Cobb — act as networking communities. The nonprofit gathers those who want to move out of poverty and matches them with volunteers who can provide financial insight and job opportunities.

“Relationships are key from the beginning,” Garner said. “...And it ends up being really a nice friendship.”

With hopes of hosting their first meeting in August, Garner said Circles Cobb will need all hands on deck and at least 50 to 60 volunteers. Additionally, the nonprofit is inviting churches, restaurants and other organizations in Cobb to participate in the initiative.

To volunteer, contribute or learn more about Circles Cobb’s mission, visit CirclesCobb.org.

Braves Fest returns to The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park

Thousands of fans flocked to The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park in January to attend the return of Braves Fest.

After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival featured a wide variety of family-friendly events including on-field activities, interactive experiences, baseball clinics and live entertainment.

The free event allowed fans to interact with Braves players and coaches while also sharing their excitement for the upcoming season.

Infielder Vaughn Grissom, All-Star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. and strikeout pitcher Spencer Strider were among the many Braves players who attended the festival.

Grissom said this Braves Fest was his first, adding that he enjoyed spending quality time with his fans.

“It’s been a blast,” said the 22-year-old Grissom, who is in line to succeed Cobb County native Dansby Swanson as the Braves’ starting shortstop. “This has been a really cool opportunity for us.”

One of the events, “Bowl with the Braves,” allowed fans to bowl a frame and nail a strike alongside players at Punch Bowl Social.

Festival-goers also had the opportunity to sit at the Bally Sports South broadcast desk and snap a picture.

Lee Arnold, a Braves fan from Chattanooga, Tennessee, attended the festival, with his father and son tagging along for the fun. The three generations sat at the broadcast

Left: From left, Circles Cobb Executive Director Barbara Garner and Board Chair Holly Tuchman discuss plans to combat poverty in Cobb.

Above: Break dancers flip and skip to the beat while Braves fans cheer them on.

desk and met former Braves player and current Bally Sports broadcaster Paul Byrd.

“We came here for a true Braves experience and today didn’t disappoint,” Arnold said. “This is a generational thing for us. My dad and I are former baseball players and my son is a player now. Meeting Mr. Byrd and touching home plate was pretty cool.”

Cobb restaurant revamps and new beginnings

Cobb dining and nightlife is constantly evolving and it seems this year is no exception. From southern-style pizza joints and Belgian waffle parlors to Tex-Mex diners and coffee shops, check out the most recent restaurant news happening in and around Cobb.

Bernardo’s Modern-Mex, owned by Brett and Laura Olszeski, is now open in downtown Kennesaw. It takes the place of Trackside Grill, which the Olszeski family owned and operated for 20 years.

Brett said Bernardo’s is not your typical Tex-Mex. The restaurant’s main culinary influences come not from Texas but from Mexico, Arizona and New Mexico.

“There’s a little hybrid of everything in there,” Brett said. “I kind of just threw it all in a pot and we’re trying to do little samples of each region.”

The Frozen Goose opened on Powder Springs Street near Marietta Square in December, featuring frozen, slushy cocktails, alongside a menu of bar food and other alcoholic offerings.

The 27-seat bar has three large TVs for sports, along with churning machines that dispense a variety of frozen drinks, including a kid-friendly, non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiri and Disser’s favorite, “Chuck’s Revenge” — a drink made with tequila, pineapple, tangerine and peach.

New restaurants coming soon to Cobb

A retro building on Canton Road, formerly known as Derek’s Diner, will soon house a new coffee joint, Cafe Clement

Cafe Clement will feature specialty coffee and prepared foods, overseen by owners, Arthur Beaudet and Luisana Rojas-Beaudet.

Arthur is the son of Douceur De France owner and founder Luc Beaudet. Arthur Beaudet is continuing the family legacy with his own brand and new spot, Cafe Clement, which is set to open soon.

The coffee joint will have a walk-up counter where guests can place their orders and then find a spot in the cozy dining area to relax and enjoy their fresh coffee.

Omni Hotel at The Battery Atlanta will welcome a new signature restaurant, National Anthem, this spring.

The restaurant, just steps away from the Chop House Gates at Truist Park Stadium, will celebrate America’s favorite pastime, mixed with a bit of a modern diner feel.

Peach State Pizza, a southern-style pizza joint, is coming to the Avenue East Cobb. The pizza parlor will boast a 3,560-squarefoot restaurant with a front porch swing and vintage Georgia décor.

Construction on Peach State Pizza is set to begin in the spring, with NAP aiming for a grand opening in the late summer.

Belgian waffle purveyor Press Waffle Co. will also be coming to the Avenue East Cobb later this year.

East Cobb locals and huband-wife duo Keith and Niki Ginel will be the franchise owners of the new Press Waffle Co. location, which was founded in 2016 and later took off after an appearance on the hit ABC show “Shark Tank.”

A new brewery is coming to Austell later this year. Frog Rock Brewing Company has signed a lease in the new development, dubbed “Cincinnati Junction,” and will open in late spring or early summer, according to Andrew Lundstrom, the project’s developer.

The brewery’s interior will draw inspiration from the city’s history — Austell was once known as Salt Springs, due to springs with supposedly medicinal qualities that were popular in the 19th century.

Frog Rock also plans to have an outdoor beer garden with seating, fire pits and string lights, a bocce ball court and a music stage.

Above: From left: Laura Olszeski, Brett Olszeski, Brandon Olszeski, Brittany Olszeski and Zoie Olszeski stand outside Bernardo’s, the family’s newest restaurant.

Top Right: Johnathan Disser and Dominic Belli stand behind the bar at their business, the Frozen Goose, which opened a month ago on Powder Springs Street near Marietta Square.

Bottom: A rendering of Cincinnati Junction, a new development coming to downtown Austell on Broad Street.

Cobb Scene Retirement celebration for longtime Solicitor General

Barry Morgan

Photos by CHANDLER BRIDGES

After 25 years of serving the community, Cobb’s longest serving prosecutor Barry Morgan retired in December and hosted family, friends and colleagues at Marietta City Hall for his retirement celebration.

1. Solicitor General Barry Morgan glances among the crowd of his family, friends and work peers and reflects on his quarter-century career as Cobb’s longest serving prosecutor.

2. A guest who attended the celebration writes a farewell message on an honorary photo of Morgan.

3. Left to right, Judge Jaret Usher and District Attorney Flynn Broady come together for a photo op at Morgan’s retirement celebration.

4. Left to right, Barry Morgan and Stacy Levy take a quick break from the fun to snap a photo.

5. Left to right, Jennifer Qualey and Kathy Qualey celebrate Barry Morgan at his retirement celebration and wish him good luck in his future endeavors.

6. Left to right, Roy Corbin, Alex Corbin, Miriam Corbin joins Barry Morgan to celebrate his legacy as Cobb’s longest serving prosecutor.

7. Attendees dive into the many delicious snacks and indulgences offered at Morgan’s retirement celebration.

8. Left to right, Dan Martin and Stacy Levy snapped a quick photo while attending Morgan’s retirement celebration.

9. Left to right, Smyrna City Council member Latonia Hines and  Judge Jaret Usher attended the celebration to honor Morgan’s hard work in serving the Cobb community for 25 years.

10. Left to right, Brittany Fernander, Melissa Tatum, Alexis Bates and Maria Jarman join together in honor of Morgan’s service to Cobb County.

Cobb Scene

2023 Cobb Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

The Cobb Chamber celebrated its accomplishments of 2022 at the 81st Annual Dinner celebration, presented by Wellstar, in January at the Cobb Galleria Centre. Over 1,000 business and community leaders attended the black-tie optional dinner affair, including military leaders, economic development partners and elected officials.

The Marietta Daily Journal presented its prestigious 2022 Cobb County Citizen of the Year Award to Dr. Dwight “Ike” Reighard of MUST Ministries. The Marietta Daily Journal has presented this award since 1963 at the Cobb Chamber Annual Dinner.

Photos by Cobb Chamber

1. John Loud, left, president of Kennesaw-based LOUD Security Systems, and Cobb Chamber Vice Chair Chris Britton share a few laughs before hitting the dance floor.

2. Left to right, former Cobb District Attorney Joyette Holmes, Cobb State Court Clerk Robin Bishop and Chief Judge Kelli Wolk are dressed to the nines in their formal attire at the Cobb Chamber Annual Dinner.

3. GSO Jazz Quartet jams out on stage while attendees enjoy the show.

4. Ike Reighard, left, CEO of Marietta-based MUST Ministries, accepts the 2022 Cobb County Citizen of the Year Award from Marietta Daily Journal Publisher Otis Brumby III during the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s 81st Annual Dinner.

5. Left to right, Cobb School District Board members Leroy Tre’ Hutchins and Nichelle Davis take a quick break from the fun to snap a photo with BlackRock Vice President Maranie Brown.

6. Left to right, Edith Boy, Kay Morgan, Andy Gaines, Kim Gresh and Mark Morgan come together for a group photo after the award ceremony.

7. After the Cobb Chamber of Commerce conducted the awards ceremony, attendees stormed the dance floor and the celebration continued on with a silent disco.

8. The silent disco at the Cobb Chamber Annual Dinner offered multiple channels that featured different music genres. Trey Paris, left, and Sandra Paris tuned into the same music channel and danced the night away.

Now: Then:

Mayes Ward Funeral Home was established in 1929 by Mayes Ward and brother Harvey Ward. The Funeral Home at the time was located on Lawrence Street. The company moved to the Church Street location in 1932. Meanwhile, Dobbins Funeral Home was established in 1923 by John S. Dobbins and Albert Dobbins.

In 1983, Albert Dobbins sold Dobbins Funeral Home to Mayes Ward Funeral Home and it was here that the two companies merged together into one and Mayes Ward Dobbins Funeral Home was born.

A century later, Mayes Ward Dobbins Funeral Home & Crematory celebrates its 100th anniversary serving the Cobb community. The company boasts two chapels in Historic Marietta and Powder Springs. Pictured here is its Historic Marietta Chapel at 180 Church St.

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