Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“We’re honored that Sterling Estates of East Cobb was Voted Best Assisted Living Community in My East Cobb and that Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized “Best of Cobb” for Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. We’ve been serving Seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now... We invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don’t have the wellness center, green space, programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents period. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... bet yours will too.” ~ Susan S.
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Former NBA player Dale Ellis
Change of Season and Change of Guard
I am super excited to announce a new chapter in our journey, as I assume the role as Publisher of East Cobb City Lifestyle.
It's important to share the same exceptional talent and leadership who have been part of our team from the very beginning remain fully engaged and are just an email or phone call away. We’re simply growing and need to divide and conquer so to leverage our strengths and fulfill our commitment to delivering high-quality work, serve as active members of the community and answer the call to reach anyone - anywhere.
My family and I have called Atlanta our home for almost 40 years. We raised our children in Sandy Springs and moved to Marietta - East Cobb 10 years ago. We have a genuine passion for our community - which we believe is a remarkable place to live, work and play.
Please join me and the entire East Cobb City Lifestyle team in celebrating the change of season. With this comes different cravings, fun travel, festive seasonal events, helping others and enjoying culinary. We’re excited to share how The Capital Grille Dunwoody offers an amazing dining experience while toasting others and giving back.
We enjoyed sitting down with two of the most respected and favored restauranteurs including Blaiss Nowak of Nowak’s Restaurant and John Accardi of Carlo’s Pizza who have an unparalleled passion for family, friends and profession. They continue their family legacies immersed in tradition and are growing iconic brands responsible for creating memories that last a lifetime.
We're excited about getting back into routines and doing things that help ensure our health and wellbeing. With this - we share the numerous benefits of infrared technology offered by Perspire Sauna Studio and announce the global brand GIRLSGRONG - dedicated to spreading positivity and empowering women and girls.
We invite you to share our work with others. Follow us on Instagram, flip through our monthly print or digital, peruse our expansive digital footprint, and say yes when invited to receive our monthly good news lifestyle newsletter!
Thank you and look forward to seeing you around town!
Sincerely,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com
Sydney Kate Lewis, Catherine James, Sean O'Keefe, Sue Collins, Rei Kaiser
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman Learn
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A premier cabinet, counter top and flooring company, passionately transforming and creating perfect kitchens, bathrooms and offices. With decades of experience, our talented team helps ensure unparalleled quality, time efficiency and solid budget management. Commitment to detail, distinctive designs and best-in-class service has led Kitchen Designs to experience monumental growth and success creating opportunity for continued innovation. One thing that has remained constant is the resolve of company founders to never lose focus on what matters most - our clients.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: HeyDay East Cobb's Hostess Alyssa welcomes in community for monthly Sip, Shop and Self-Care Saturday! 2: Author Kimberly Belle launches The Paris Window with JRM Management's Missy Miller and Jenie Christopher 3: Apricot Lane East Cobb supports small businesses including Emme Love at relaunch party! 4: Owner Liesa Hess of Apricot Lane East Cobb celebrates with friends and clients at relaunch!
5: Circle for Children’s Polly Hogue, Heather Rees, Rita Furness, Lynn Thompson, Jennie Johnson Top Golf 6: Accomplished oil, acrylic and watercolor artist Maryam Askaran with sons Arash Shirazi and Armin Shirazi 7: Circle for Children celebrates leaders who accepted the call to serve as volunteer President!
Patricia, Tracy and Bonnie Terwilliger Sponsor Habitat For Humanity Home build supporting local Cobb family 9: Marietta Firefighter Jose
participates in Cobb County Public Safety Foundation's First Responder 5K 10: Celebrating 2nd Annual Cobb County Public Safety Foundation's 5K & Walk hosting over 700 participants! 11: Hundreds came together at The Battery Atlanta to lift Cobb County First Responders! 12: With excitement Cobb Chamber names President, CEO Melissa Cantrell of CDH Partners as 2026 chairwoman! 13: Apricot Lane East Cobb located at The Avenue celebrates re-launch with llama love! 14: Combining classical techniques with modern playful approach artist Maryam Askaran displaying at Holy Innocents Church
8:
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Welcome to your dream mountain retreat by Gnarly Home Crafters! This stunning modern cabin combines rustic charm with contemporary elegance, just 5 miles from Downtown Blue Ridge. Enjoy breathtaking longrange sunset views from expansive windows in the open-concept living space, featuring a great room with soaring ceilings, exposed beams, and a cozy woodburning fireplace. The gourmet kitchen boasts state-ofthe-art appliances and a spacious island. Relax in the luxurious master suite or unwind on the expansive deck, perfect for soaking in the panoramic views. Schedule your private tour today!
Circle for Children to host Golf Tournament at Top Golf Alpharetta on Sunday, October 20th from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. benefitting The City of Refuge. The tournament will feature contests including a "Hole in One" and winner can walk away with $10,000! The Circle for Children has a rich tradition of giving to disadvantaged youth throughout metro Atlanta and Georgia. Join us for a "Sunday Funday" complete with food and beverages to aid Georgia's children in crisis. www.circle4children.org/golf
East Cobb Park Announces AMAZING Fall Line-Up!
Thanks to generous sponsors and passionate volunteers, this year's fall line-up at East Cobb Park is incredible! On October 4 enjoy a movie screening of Kung Fu Panda 4. Next up is all things gardening followed by Music in the Park concert series culminating with a holiday light celebration and visit by Santa. These family friendly activities are sure to deliver an unforgettable season. Learn about Park features, volunteer opportunities or becoming a member. Eastcobbpark.org
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East Cobb County Council of PTAs Announces 2024-2025 Executive Board
Almost 25,000 members supporting 35 schools, the Council's work in advocating for students and enhancing school culture to provide exceptional educational experiences is award-winning. Having achieved "National School of Excellence" status, ECCC PTA is recognized across the U.S. for its unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. Executive Board: President Tammy Andress (Lassiter HS), VP Nikkia Velazquez (Kincaid ES), Secretary Heather Reese (picturedAddison ES), Treasurer Jolynn Hardizi (Mabry MS) and Parliamentarian Teri Singer (Lassister HS).
Indulge In
Elevate your sauna experience at Perspire Infrared Studio
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Perspire Infrared Studio, located in the Merchant’s Walk shopping center, redefines what it means to enhance the sauna experience. According to Jan Zalud, Perspire provides a “truly elevated experience” compared to a traditional sauna.
A traditional Finnish-style sauna, often seen in gyms or wellness centers, utilizes excessive heat to benefit the human body. In contrast, an infrared sauna combines both heat and infrared light technology. The addition of infrared light allows for deeper penetration into the skin, which ultimately helps the body sweat more and release toxins. While the use of heat as a component in healing the
body has been around for thousands of years, the inclusion of red light was only introduced to the U.S. in the 1980s. By incorporating this advanced wellness technology, infrared saunas introduce a whole new holistic approach to well-being.
Perspire, in particular, differentiates itself from both traditional and other infrared saunas by offering a highly elevated experience.
Its private sauna suites prevent the coming and going of others, allowing the guests to fully embrace the experience and enabling the sauna to serve as a powerful mental tool, providing a space for solitude, meditation, or even yoga in the larger suites. Each suite is equipped with a Bluetooth TV for playing relaxing music, meditation, or a favorite show. Cold eucalyptus face towels are provided after the session to help cool off, and three member suites also include beautiful walk-in private showers for those who prefer a cold rinse as a form of contrast therapy or to shower off after the session. “The goal is to feel better when you walk out than when you walk in, and all these components help you achieve that,” Zalud said. A typical session at Perspire lasts between 40 to 50 minutes,
CONTINUED >
“THE GOAL IS TO FEEL BETTERWHEN YOU WALK OUT THAN WHEN YOU WALK IN.”
giving ample time for someone to reap the sauna's benefits—benefits that are seen on both physical and mental levels.
The benefits of an infrared sauna vary per person. For example, infrared technology helps injured athletes repair and re-energize on a cellular level, allowing for quicker recovery. For those with depression, the heat component increases serotonin levels, alleviating depressive symptoms. The heat emitted from the infrared light is extremely beneficial to cardiovascular health through the detoxification of the body via sweat.
It also boosts the immune system by inducing an artificial fever, which helps the body learn how to heal. Through its ability to provide a whole-body exfoliation, infrared light naturally promotes collagen production, leading to clearer skin. It even burns enough calories equivalent to a two-mile light jog. Acting as a “lazy man’s workout,” as Zalud refers to it, its ability to burn calories makes it especially beneficial for people recovering from injuries who need low-impact ways to maintain their health routine.
In addition, the use of chromotherapy, or color light therapy, which focuses on the different vibrations of various colors to generate specific effects, can produce a wide variety of benefits. For example, blue light promotes the natural release of melatonin, helping those with insomnia sleep better. “We have a lot of people who attend the last session of the day to help them sleep that night,” Zalud said.
The overall benefits increase significantly with frequent use of the infrared sauna. “We recommend three to four times a week,” Zalud said. “You have to create a habit to receive the full benefits.” As a result, Perspire offers several membership options in addition to the purchase of individual sessions. For first-time guests, there is a $20 introductory session that can be booked online, by calling, or visiting the studio.
prespiresaunastudio.com/ga/east-cobb/
The Capital Grille DunwoodyBuilding Community Through Generosity
CHANGING THE WAY WE FUNDRAISE; ONE DELICIOUS MEAL AT A TIME
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE
The Capital Grille, the epitome of a classic, yet comfortable American steakhouse is recognized across the United States for excellence and approachable fine dining. The Capital Grille offers an exceptional dining experience characterized by impeccable service, critically acclaimed dry aged steaks, the freshest seafood, a variety of flavorful sides, sinful desserts, and a thoughtfully curated wine list. The ambiance is elegant and welcoming, making it perfect for celebrating every special occasion, a casual dinner with friends, or that important business affair.
“The Capital Grille was welcomed to the Dunwoody/East Cobb area with open arms 12 years ago,” says Danielle Crawley, The Capital Grille Dunwoody Managing Partner. “We continue to thrive in our community whether we are welcoming new residents in to enjoy their first dining experience at The Capital Grille or greeting repeat guests who have come back to enjoy what they know and love.” Great food and great company bring people together. It is quite similar to how the kitchen in a home is where family and friends gather, a restaurant does the same for their guests. “Our guests at The Capital Grille become our close friends and family, so when we are approached with supporting a charity that they are representing, it’s just another way for us to show our appreciation for the relationship we’ve built with them over time and over great food.”
One of the most notable aspects of The Capital Grille’s community involvement is its engagement with local charitable organizations. “We take pride in in supporting the community that supports us at The Capital Grille,” says Crawley. “It takes
Celebrating Two Sparrows Village
20th Anniversary of the Charity Classic
a village, and it’s an honor for us to have formed meaningful relationships with such wonderful people and organizations in Dunwoody that enable us to give back to our community.”
The restaurant often collaborates with Metro Atlantabased nonprofits to curate the perfect giving environment for fundraising through thoughtful and innovative ways. Whether participating in charity auctions, virtual fundraising dine-a-longs, hosting the perfect cocktail reception, or an elegant wine dinner featuring expertly paired wines with gourmet dishes, The Capital Grille is perfect for a sophisticated culinary experience that is of benefit to the community. These events not only raise funds for important causes but also bring together community members, creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. Such gatherings strengthen relationships reinforcing the restaurant’s role in the community and demonstrating its commitment to supporting local causes in meaningful ways. Charity wine dinners at The Capital Grille offer a refined evening of gourmet cuisine paired with exceptional wines, all in support of a meaningful cause. Two of these recent dinners have been hosted by Chris Benziger from Benziger Family Winery: and, Megan Cline, Cline Family Cellars. These events bring together estate wines, fine dining and philanthropy; always in benefit of others. Guests enjoy a curated menu, expertly paired wines, and the satisfaction of contributing to the community. The atmosphere is always elegant and inviting, making it a perfect setting for both wine enthusiasts, foodies, and those passionate about giving back. At The Capital Grille each wine dinner is a memorable experience, combining culinary excellence with a spirit of generosity.
Over the recent number of years, The Capital Grille has partnered with Honor Flight, Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance, Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Two Sparrows Village, EDIN (eating Disorder Information Network), The Recording Academy Atlanta Chapter, and City Of Hope
“The Capital Grill Dunwoody helped to raise critical funds to support the mission of countless organizations. Their dedication to community is a powerful testament to how caring for others empowers business and strengthens relationships. Their efforts are a shining example of the positive impact a business can have.”
Cancer Center, just to name a few. Through fundraising events and donations, the restaurant helps to provide essential resources to individuals and families in need, thereby making a tangible impact on the community’s well-being.
The Capital Grille's involvement in community partnerships extends beyond their incredible cuisine, world class hospitality, and financial contributions; it also includes employee engagement and volunteerism. The restaurant encourages its staff to participate in community service activities and provides opportunities for employees to volunteer their time and skills. This approach not only amplifies the impact of the restaurant's philanthropic efforts but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose amongst its team members. By involving employees in community service, The Capital Grille strengthens its connection to the local community and demonstrates a commitment to our collective well-being.
“When the opportunity arises to attend a charity event that we are a partner in hosting, please join us in supporting these amazing causes, says Crawley, “in the meantime, join us at The Capital Grille in Dunwoody, the more guests we serve, the more charity events we are able to say “yes” to!”
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LIFTING INTO HISTORY
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
EAST COBB’S OWN HAMPTON MORRIS WINS A BRONZE MEDAL AT THE PARIS OLYMPICS
“THE SACRIFICES YOU MAKE FOR THE SPORT NEED TO MATCH YOUR GOALS.”
What started as an intent to grow stronger for soccer has since transformed into weightlifting history. Hampton Morris, a 20-year-old Marietta resident and Alan C. Pope High School graduate, returned from Paris with a bronze medal in hand from the 61kg class of the men’s weightlifting event in the 2024 Olympics. “It feels amazing,” Hampton said upon his return home. “I’m still not sure that it has completely set in.”
Having started at age 10 with his first competition at age 12, Hampton trains under his father, Tripp Morris, in a home gym they built in their garage. Initially, the intent was for someone else to train Hampton, as Tripp had no prior experience in the sport. But when doors continued to close due to misaligned school and gym class schedules, gyms being reluctant to let someone so young lift on their own,
and the excessive distance to the facility, Tripp took it upon himself to learn how to coach his son through his dreams. As a result, the two transformed their garage into weightlifting central—a transformation that was once a necessity but has since turned into an asset.
Hampton continues to astound the world with his accomplishments. “Hampton’s very humble about it,” Tripp said of his son’s success. While the records show Hampton is the first American medalist in the men’s weightlifting event since 1984, it is arguable that it was actually 1976. The Russians, a team well-acclaimed for their weightlifting abilities, did not participate in the 1980 Olympics, leaving it up in the air as to whether the U.S. team would have claimed a medal if they had. “Being able to win a medal for the U.S. after so long makes me feel really proud of myself and my dad for all the hard work we’ve both put in for such a long time,” Hampton said. “It feels like it’s really paying off.”
This is not the first drought Hampton has ended, either, as he became the first American to win a gold medal at the 2023 World Weightlifting Championship in over 50 years. No other U.S. men’s weightlifter has obtained a youth, junior, and senior world championships gold medal, and Hampton currently holds both the junior and senior clean and jerk world records in the men's 61kg class.
“ I WANT TO FUEL MYSELF WELL FOR LONG TRAINING SESSIONS AND RECOVER WELL AFTER TRAINING.”
“Consistency is a really important thing in the sport,” Hampton said. “Giving consistent effort in and outside of training.” This extends to having a consistent diet as well. “Nutrition is a really big part of it and the hardest thing to stay consistent with,” he said. “It’s one of the hardest sacrifices I have to make.” With a strict diet consisting mainly of white rice, fruit, deli chicken, meat,
nuts, and protein shakes, which equates to approximately 3,200 calories, Hampton’s diet remains the same nearly every day— something he claims not to get bored of. Only once a week does he allow himself a cheat meal, which he considers anything different from his normal diet. Even then, he says, “My go-to is ramen, which is still very clean compared to typical cheat meals.”
His diet differs from other athletes, though, in that Hampton eats a lot immediately before, immediately after, and throughout his workout. “I want to fuel myself well for long training sessions and recover well after training,” he said. “You don’t really see many athletes doing that.”
When asked what advice he would offer to those aspiring to reflect his accomplishments in their own life, Hampton said, “The sacrifices you make for the sport need to match your goals.” For athletes aiming to join the international team or make national records, etc., “If you’re not eating right, getting enough sleep, etc., it’s going to be really hard to do any of that.”
There’s no rest for the wicked, as immediately upon his return from the Paris Olympics, Hampton has already resumed his training. “I’m currently working to get back on my full training and recovery schedule and prep for Junior Worlds in a few weeks,” he said. While his training remains rigorous in preparation for his next competition, Hampton’s return to his typical training schedule allows him to resume his pursuit of personal goals as well. “Now that I’m not training for the Olympics,” he said, “I have time to get my driver’s license.”
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
Germany A Taste of
Like many humble beginnings, Round Trip Brewing began with a love story. After meeting at UGA, Craig and Amy, founders of Round Trip Brewing, chased their dreams on a round trip to Denver, then Forth Worth, then Austin, and eventually right back home to Georgia where their legacy took root.
During their time away, Craig fell in love with the art of brewing and began brewing school in Denver, but quickly transferred to Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany. There, he mastered the art of brewing the complex German lager, and went on to produce award-winning lagers as the head brewer at Rahr & Sons Brewing during his time in Fort Worth. Now, he brings his craft to the Atlanta area through Round Trip Brewing.
"We are known for championing classic German styles while experimenting with new takes on other beer styles," says Craig. "We are a lager-focused brewery for the most part, which is to say the majority of our beers are in the realm of Pilsners, Märzens, Dunkels, and Helles lagers."
With very few German lager-centric breweries in the area, Craig's brewing skills have brought an unconventional twist to the Atlanta brewing scene. For a taste of the traditional German-style beer Round Trip is known for, visitors should try the Oktoberfest Marzen, the Straight Outta Munich Export Helles lager or the Dunkel Platz.
But beyond beer and beyond bratwursts, the taproom "is built to be a communal space for people of all stripes to share a conversation and a laugh over high-quality craft beer." Round Trip Brewing is proud to be a family-friendly hangout that welcomes people from all walks of life to indulge and delight in the taste of Germany over a glass or pint.
roundtripbrewing.com
A FAMILY AFFAIR
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
The Accardi brothers share "Our love for pizza is deeply rooted in the happy memories our parents created for us during childhood." This is why Atlanta's Carlo's Pizza, a testament to the Accardi family's original shop along the Jersey Shore, is all about nostalgia. The shop emanates good old days along the Jersey Shore boardwalk through both food and atmosphere.
Fresh Flavors, Straight from the Jersey Shore
“We want to bring back those Wildwood days that Bobby Rydell sings about, offering an environment that feels like the Jersey Shore.”
We aim to recreate that feeling where you can almost sense the ocean breeze, smell the fresh pizza, and hear the fryers sizzling with our famous crinkle cut fries. We want to bring back those Wildwood days that Bobby Rydell sings about, offering an environment that feels like the Jersey Shore.
Known for their Jersey boardwalk-style pizza among a host of other Jersey favorites, Carlo's is a standout pizza shop among the many found in and around Atlanta. With fresh ingredients, house-made meatballs and topping staples from the Northeast Coast like hot cherry peppers, authenticity is baked into every dish Carlo's creates.
"If you think you’ve had great pizza in Georgia, you haven’t truly experienced the best until you’ve tried Carlos Pizza," says John Accardi.
If you find the fall weather has you feeling nostalgic, and maybe even a little wistful for a crisp stroll along the Northeast shores, pop into Carlo's for a taste to match your mood and try out any one of their new fall offerings, including the original Philadelphia Water Ice, an iconic northern sweet treat, and the "Chillati" another dessert made up of vanilla ice cream and water ice.
As for the classics, the house-made meatball and artichoke appetizer, a grandmother's kitchen recipe, as well as the latest house-made garlic rolls topped with pecorino romano cheese, are two must-tries in addition to the pizza of course. Embrace the cooler weather with a trip to the Jersey Shore and an array of comfort foods at Carlo's Pizza!
carlospizzaatlanta.com
JOEY'S SPICED WAFERS
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
A Comforting Treat from the Accardi Brothers Kitchen
If you find you can’t get enough of Carlo’s nostalgic flavors, bring them into your own kitchen with a family favorite recipe of the Accardi brothers themselves, Joey’s Spiced Wafers, just in time for fall.
“The Spiced Wafer is a Philadelphia classic cookie that we looked forward to every fall. When we moved to Georgia, we couldn’t find them anywhere, so we decided to replicate the recipe ourselves. These cookies are super crunchy, making them perfect for dipping in tea, coffee, or hot apple cider. They’re especially great with coffee, almost like a biscotti.”
Ingredients:
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter (room temp)
• 3 tbsp salted butter (melted)
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup blackstrap molasses
• 1 egg
• 2 cups high-gluten flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1½ tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp clove
• ½ tsp allspice
• ½ tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
Step 1. Mix the unsalted butter, melted salted butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2. Add the blackstrap molasses and the egg, then mix well.
Step 3. Add the high-gluten flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, clove, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix well.
Step 4. Scoop the dough onto a tray lined with parchment paper in tablespoon-sized balls.
Step 5. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
ONE-STOP SHOP IN THE CELEBRATION BUSINESS
MEET GRANT PRATA: OWNER OF SOME OF EAST COBB'S BEST SWEETS AND TREATS
Burnt out from his corporate job and looking to better connect with his kids and the community, East Cobb local Grant Prata found himself among cupcakes, crackers and condiments as he pursued not one, but two, business ventures. It started with Smallcakes. He opened the dessert franchise with 350 unique flavors of sugary confections topped with colorful designs, bringing connection and celebration to East Cobb.
"One of the best parts of this job is that EVERYONE who comes in our shop is happy," says Grant. "Who wouldn’t be when you are presented with gourmet cupcakes and homemade ice cream?"
Multi-business owner, Grant Prata, and family.
“One of the best parts of this job is that EVERYONE who comes in our shop is happy. Who wouldn’t be when you are presented with gourmet cupcakes and homemade ice cream?”
From there, Grant quickly found himself searching for another venture to take on in his free time. He noticed a catering need in the community that a charcuterie business could easily fill.
"I decided to open a charcuterie shop when I noticed a lot of parties were outside of typical meal times, and I figured people were looking to save money by not providing full meals. You can have a beautiful charcuterie spread paired with delicious desserts from the bakery for half the cost of traditional catering."
Grant landed on Graze Craze to provide customizable assortments of meats, cheeses, fruits and grains across East Cobb. By merging two complimentary, yet unique, business concepts, Grant saves customers time, money and hassle in the planning and prep process. Together, Smallcakes and Graze Craze make any celebration simpler.
"We take pride in simplifying your life because everyone is busy; one call, one reliable contact, delicious food and one more thing off of your plate," says Grant.
GRANT'S TIPS FOR BOUNTIFUL FALL BOARDS
1. Add some spice. "Any type of hot pepper, pepper cheese, spiced meats are definitely a go to for me."
2. Don't forget to dip. "That is why we make our own hummus, jams and dips for ourcharcuterie boards. Prepared fresh, with fresh ingredients every time."
3. Variety, variety, variety. "We incorporate a variety of sweet/salty, soft/ crunchy, mild/spicy, and color for presentation."
Considered the baseball team of the South and even named America’s Team decades ago by Ted Turner, the Braves have called Truist Park their home since 2017, and the team has soared in popularity throughout the South since the relocation from Turner Field. The stateof-the-art 41,000-seat ballpark offers stunning views, foodie-worthy concessions, and fun activities for the entire family. The season continues with 17 home games this month.
If you haven’t been to The Battery, the mixed-use development connected to Truist Park, you don’t need to wait for a baseball game to visit. Offering a blend of culinary offerings, retail locations and vibrant bars, The Battery is also home to the Coca-Cola Roxy, a worldclass concert and special event venue. I attended a show there recently. Parking was a breeze and after the show, we had a choice of restaurants and bars, lively without being overly crowded or too loud.
Dine at C. Ellet’s Steakhouse, Garden & Gun Club, Superica or find your new favorite.
BatteryATL.com TravelCobb.org
“THE BATTERY IS ALSO HOME TO THE COCA-COLA ROXY, A world-class CONCERT AND SPECIAL EVENT VENUE.
I ATTENDED A show THERE RECENTLY AND PARKING WAS A breeze.”
THE BEAUTY OF HOSPITALITY
would create my own,” Blaiss said. Ultimately, his dream and his destiny collided to create a much-needed addition to the East Cobb community. Having been raised in and resided in Sandy Springs for the past 35 years, he wanted to create a restaurant that would better serve his East Cobb, Dunwoody, Buckhead, and Roswell community. And so, Nowak’s was born.
EXPERIENCE GENUINE HOSPITALITY AT NOWAK’S STEAKHOUSE IN SANDY SPRINGS
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE
White cloths cloak the tables. Art adorns the deep green walls. Brown booths line the walls like trim. Plates, beautifully arranged, and glasses, filled to the brim, rest dutifully on the tabletops. Guests of all ages and backgrounds fill the black leather chairs tucked beneath the round tables. It is a community, a gathering, as guests travel from various distances, near and far, to discover the beauty and hospitality of Nowak’s Steakhouse.
Nowak’s Steakhouse, located at 6690 Roswell Road, first opened its Sandy Springs doors in March of 2023 with nothing more than a dream from owner Blaiss Nowak. “I wanted to create the best steakhouse in Atlanta,” Blaiss said. In a city where appearances are everything, often causing food and service to decline in excellence at local restaurants, “I wanted to have both beautiful decor and excellent food.”
Like many, Blaiss aspired to follow in the footsteps of his father, the owner of Hal’s Steakhouse in Buckhead. Having grown up in his father’s restaurant, “It was only destiny that one day I
Nowak’s quickly became the best-kept secret in the fine dining industry in Sandy Springs. Under the shared expertise of his father, who Blaiss claims is his biggest fan and supporter; the influence of his wife, Jenni, who designed and crafted the vibe of the restaurant; and the contributions of his mother, who prepares all the restaurant’s desserts, “It’s a family affair!” Blaiss said.
This family extends to include both Nowak’s staff and guests, as the emphasis on hospitality bestowed upon guests makes them feel right at home. Blaiss has “trained myself to always be watching what is going on in my dining room and by checking on my guests during their dining experience.” Even further, he has “trained our staff to anticipate our guests' needs to ensure great service when dining with us.” This training permits even the guests from the furthest distances to feel like part of the Nowak family affair.
Don’t miss their weekday happy hours, featuring $9 specialty and classic martinis as well as food specials from 4-6 PM, their hot lobster roll exclusive to their Tuesday menu, or the opportunity to book your next event, business dinner, or holiday party in their private dining room, which holds up to 50 guests. And don’t forget to follow Nowak’s on Facebook and Instagram to get insight into various events, late-night parties, and specials exclusive to social media.
To make reservations and experience the beauty and hospitality of Nowak’s, guests can use either the RESY app or simply call the restaurant at 404-980-3638.
nowaksrestaurant.com
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ARTICLE BY REI KAISER
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
DEVOTING TIME TO EDUCATING EVERYONE ABOUT BREAST CANCER
Amid the pumpkins, leaves and scarecrows, October evokes passion around an important cause. Shop windows, bumper stickers, and t-shirts adorn the pink ribbon, which holds a powerful message for those impacted by breast cancer as the rest of us embrace the reminder of its significance.
On average, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 14 seconds, making it the leading cause of cancer in women, and as of 2020, the most common cancer worldwide.
We're reminded to encourage women across the country to get mammograms, the most effective tool against breast cancer and to support families affected by this disease.
October 18th is Wear It Pink Day 2024. Slip on your favorite pink to share your support! In the meanwhile, there are a host of charities and nonprofits you can support.
National Breast Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen Foundation, BreastCancer.org, Young Survival Coalition, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, American Cancer Society, The DONNA Foundation, Living Beyond Breast Cancer.
*Showroom by Appointment* We truly care about our clients and community. We are committed to providing an exceptional client experience and offer a warranty unique to the industry providing 100% satisfaction.
