CL_Summer2014(1) 1
6/3/2014 1:36:31 PM
CL_Summer2014(2) 2
6/2/2014 3:44:41 AM
CL_Summer2014(3) 3
6/2/2014 2:52:34 AM
Cobb Life
June/July/August 2014
Volume 10, Issue 5
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER
Otis Brumby IIl
GENERAL MANAGER Lee B. Garrett
V.P. ADVERTISING Wade Stephens
EDITORIAL STAFF DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES Mark Wallace Maguire
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Stacey L. Evans, Mark Wallace Maguire
CONTRIBUTORS
Katy Ruth Camp, Joan Durbin, Stacey L. Evans, Joel Groover, Therra C. Gwyn, Adam Miller, Michael Pallerino, Michael Venezia
PHOTOGRAPHER Sam Bennett
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Marti Sacks
PROOFREADER Whitney Betts
ADVERTISING STAFF
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Acorn Aqua Guard Basements Art- Tiques Atlanta Communities Atlanta Lyric Theatre Blackwell's Jewelers Brawner Hall Cathy Colquitt Children's Healthcare of Atlanta COBB EMC Cobb Hardware Compassionate Care Ministries Critter Sitters Cumberland Diamond Exchange Dental Staff School Debbie Redford - All Around Atlanta Realty Dermatology Consultants Diamonds R Forever E. Smith Heating & Air Edward Jones - Udel Richardson Fleming Carpet Fresh n Fit Gaines Park Senior Living Georgia Cancer Specialist Giovanni's Harry Norman Henry's Louisiana Grill Indy Style Salon Johnson Ferry Baptist Julep's Home DĂŠcor Life Grocery Manders Dental Marietta FUMC Weekday and FUSE Ministry
CL_Summer2014(4) 4
61 41 39 47 61 71 12 72 3 69 33 57 53 25 36 12 56 22 29 18 65 23 24 14 47 11 42 56 70 53 45 18 6
Marietta Hearing Center Marietta Podiatry Marina Bay Marlowes Tavern Mavis Anderson Mayes Ward - Dobbins Funeral Home Medford - Peden Funeral Home Mikel Crowley Miracle Method Mt. Bethel Christian School Mt. Paran Christian School Night Vision Outdoors North Cobb Spine & Nerve Northside Hospital Northside Physican's Group Northside Sleep Center Outrageous Interiors Parc @ Piedmont Pinnacle Orthopaedics Plastic Surgery Center of the South Presbyterian Village Roswell Street Baptist Skin Cancer Specialists Sterling Estates Senior Living Sue Hilton Superior Plumbing The Bottoms Group The Framery Vespeccis Wellstar West Cobb Funeral Home White Rabbit Whitlock Dental Winnwood Retirement
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tara Guest
4 11 45 43 24 49 32 39 22 19 73 75 37 5 28 66 15 72 9 60 52 31 68 10 29 2 7 60 41 76 64 57 13 67
COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER Becky Opitz
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Stephanie deJarnette, Dawne Edge, Paula Milton, Charlene Kay, Liz Ridley, Jordan Emerson, Amber Harris, Kim Fowler, Katelyn Ledford, Audra Pagano
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Beth Poirier, Jennifer Hall
PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR Leigh Hall
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett
INFORMATION Cobb Life is published 10 times a year by the Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 30,000 homes and businesses. To subscribe, email circulation@ cobblifemagazine.com or call 770.795.5001 To advertise, contact Wade Stephens at 770.795.4001 Please send all editorial correspondence to mmaguire@cobblifemagazine.com
6/3/2014 11:48:27 AM
CL_Summer2014(5) 5
6/2/2014 2:00:54 AM
WHAT’S INSIDE features
58
20 STYLE How to look hot while staying cool 38 SPICE We delve into some of Cobb’s most enticing wings 54 TRAVEL We visit Sea Island 58 HEALTH & FITNESS Austell entrepreneur creates healthy ‘ice cream’ 20
62 WINE Our guru pairs drinks with wings
features 16 WHERE ARE THEY NOW David Wendel expands his palette and his success
50
26 MEET COBB’S ‘INDIANA JONES’ Meet Randy Hancock 30 FROM COBB TO CUSCO Our correspondent checks in with a former McEachern valedictorian 34 BEYOND THE BASICS Father’s Day gift guide 50 LUXURY WHEELS Cobb is home to a unique dealership
ON THE COVER
Dig in. Wings from Loco Willy’s.
in every issue FROM THE DIRECTOR CONTRIBUTORS TALK OF THE TOWN NEWS & NOTEWORTHY HIGHLIGHTS SCENE REFLECTIONS
CL_Summer2014(6) 6
8 10 12 14 66 68 74
6/3/2014 11:52:53 AM
CL_Summer2014(7) 7
6/3/2014 11:58:37 AM
FROM THE DIRECTOR
What’s on your summer bucket list? Since January, we’d been waiting for summer. It arrived on Memorial Day weekend. And the rituals, along with a dose of pandemonium, are underway. The scent of charcoal smoke is on the breeze. Shorts and sandals emerge after a long hibernation at the bottom of closets. You can hear the voices of children playing outside through the last slivers of daylight. Lightning bugs punctuate the darkness. Then come the camps. Day camps, sports camps, art camps, Vacation Bible Schools. Maybe a church event, perhaps a Homecoming or Revival. July the Fourth. Ice cream. Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon, corn. Cookouts. Pool parties. Beach trips. Braves baseball. A doldrums of the weeks before school starts again when every mom I know is past the point of losing patience. And then, after the mad scurry, suddenly – it ends. Over. That seems to be the way it goes every summer, especially the older one gets, doesn’t it? We make a rush of a time meant to be relaxing. And, trust me, I don’t say this as a cold critic or one who is completely immune. At the end of summer, I generally find myself bemoaning all the things I wanted to do, but didn’t. With that said, this year, I have written a summer bucket list to make sure I do not find myself in that state of mind again.
CL_Summer2014(8) 8
1.Make homemade ice cream: Growing up, this was a tradition in my family. My parents loved to set our loud rock salt-laden maker on the porch and my grandparents even had a hand-cranked one. My wife and I half-heartedly carried the tradition on for a few years before fizzling out last summer. But this summer I am aiming for not one, but at least two bouts of homemade ice cream. 2. Wade in a stream: My family usually goes to Callaway Gardens at least once a summer and, though I don’t swim, I will dip my feet in Robin Lake. But finding a good stream to wade your feet in is something I miss. I have a couple of fishing spots I’ve discovered here and there, but the key is to find the right amount of depth and current. When you do, there are few things as simply sublime. 3.The non-contact sports: Last year I played horseshoes for the first time at, ironically, an end-of-summer party. I tossed a few games – or is it matches? - and found it to my liking. Why? Well, I don’t really care for croquet or golf. Secondly, you can play horseshoes with a drink in your hand and wear about anything you dadgum want to. (I prefer a Larry Bird T-shirt, seersucker shorts and a straw hat.) I might also give badminton another try. I played it when I was a child with my brother and cousins at my grandparents home and I harbor fond memories of racing back and forth on the thick zoysia grass, trying to hit the shuttlecock while not getting blinded by the sun. Tennis is in the mix too. As long as it doesn’t bode for broken bones, I am game. 4. Moonlight hike: When I was in my teens and early 20s, I frequently took midnight bike rides. It might sound foolhardy, but if you lived in the right place and knew which vacated roads to ride, it was a rush. I’ve passed the point of nighttime bike rides, but hope to take my son on a moonlight hike. There are few adventures as ethereal to remind one of the greatness of the universe. 5.Fix a fun drink: Folks use summertime as an excuse to make all sorts of interesting drinks. Sun tea, crazy concoctions of Kool Aid, iced tea with a kick, Coke floats and more. I’ve been re-reading “Smokehouse Ham, Spoon Bread, & Scuppernong Wine: The Folklore and Art of Southern Appalachian Cooking” by my friend Joe Dabney and discovered some great old-timey recipes in there. I think I will pass on the Sumac wine and the Peach Beer, but might give some of the elderberry wines or brandies a shot. (As an aside, if you haven’t read Joe’s masterpiece, I strongly encourage it. It is a prime place to find great recipes and engaging stories.) So there’s mine. What about you? Have you got a bucket list? If not, I encourage you to make one and if you have any suggestions for me, please drop me a line at mmaguire@cobblifemagazine. com. Have a great summer. Best, Mark Wallace Maguire
6/2/2014 1:06:56 AM
CL_Summer2014(9) 9
6/2/2014 1:05:49 AM
MEET SOME OF OUR CONTRIBUTORS Katy Ruth Camp is a modern day Renaissance woman (although some might say it is simply a case of too many interests). She has been a contributor for Cobb Life Magazine since its inception in 2005 and has written for multiple University of Georgia publications, the Marietta Daily Journal, Cherokee Life Magazine, Sandy Springs Life Magazine, Dunwoody Life Magazine and various other local and national publications. She is also a ghost writer and editor; the owner and artist of little crow handmade jewelry; co-founder and director of Cocktails Against Cancer, an annual fundraiser benefitting local women in need of breast cancer tests and treatments in memory of her late mother, Valari Camp; and an avid college football junkie with her blog, “Pigskin Peaches.” Her “real” job, however, and her biggest passion is serving as the development director for The Georgia Ballet. Katy Ruth lives in a 1950s cottage in Smyrna with the two cutest dogs in the world (no bias), Grady and Penelope. “Born and raised in Atlanta, Sam Bennett started photography in high school and continued at the University of South Carolina, where he majored in Visual Communications. His work has previously appeared in several publications including the Marietta Daily Journal, Dawg Post, Score Atlanta, and Johns Creek Herald. He also owns Cutting Edge Images, Inc. that specializes in portraits, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Weddings and Event photography. He has served as a coach and umpire, acquired a black belt in Taekwondo, and possesses a deep passion when rooting on his USC Gamecocks.”
10
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(10) 10
Food has been on Joan Durbin’s mind for as long as she can remember. In high school, faced with taking either French or Spanish for a language credit, she opted for French because she thought it would come in handy later for reading menus. Growing up in a Midwestern family in which garlic, herbs and spices other than salt, pepper and the occasional onion rarely made an appearance in the womenfolk’s cooking, Joan was flabbergasted and delighted to discover a whole spectrum of new flavors once she went away to college. She more than made up for lost time by embracing exotic ingredients and foodstuffs that gave her grandmother and mother the vapors. In her 20s, Joan adopted the kitchen as her favorite room in the house and spent ensuing decades attempting and often succeeding in creating edible meals. In the early years, she was the only one of her friends who preferred to throw a dinner party than a kegger. Moving from Ohio to South Florida to metro Atlanta, and traveling up and down the East Coast, Joan has picked up a passing familiarity with a wide variety of cuisines, regional specialties and cooking procedures. She lives quietly in East Cobb with a passel of dogs and cats and one sometimes exasperating but well-meaning man who retired and took up cooking as a hobby.
6/2/2014 7:59:23 AM
Stacey L. Evans was born with a fervent curiosity streak, which triggered her interest in journalism and eventually drove her from a small South Georgia town to the ‘big city’ of Atlanta. With a journalism degree in tow, she jetted off for an escapade in London—which she believes gives her the right to use words such as ‘bloody,’ and ‘knackered’ with authority—and then wandered around the retail and restaurant world until finding a home at “Neighbor Newspapers” and “Cobb Life.” Now she spends her days writing, designing, brainstorming and assisting with photo shoots. She also serves as editor of Cobb Life’s “Brides” edition. An avid nature lover, she spends countless hours trekking or cycling through the wilderness, stretching out on river rocks to read, marveling at whatever creature crosses her path, contemplating the clouds and staring up at the stars.
Michael A. Venezia is the Corporate Director of Education for United Distributors Inc. He is also Adjunct Professor of Hospitality Administration at Georgia State University. He lives in East Cobb with his wife Patti, who recently retired as an ESL teacher at Wheeler High School. His hobbies include collecting wine corks which currently number more than 5,000, and traveling to food and wine destinations in search of those “gastronomic marriages made in heaven.“
FOOT & ANKLE
SPECIALISTS
• Podiatric & Diabetic Clinic • Physical Therapy Department Dr. Glyn E. Lewis Dr. Donald R. Powell Dr. Matthew G. Butler Physical Therapist
• Corrective Surgery for Bunions and other Foot Deformities • Sports Injuries
Marietta Podiatry Group
165 Vann Street | Marietta, GA 770-422-9856 www.mariettapodiatrygroup.com
Adam Miller is a writer living in Marietta with his wife, Megan, and three children. His work has appeared in newspapers, magazines and blogs throughout the United States and Canada, including Cobb Life magazine and On Mission magazine. When he’s not writing, reading good books or working with his church, Adam likes to run trails, watch his daughters sing songs from Frozen for the thousandth time, play Call of Duty with his son or simply have the rare conversation with his wife.
Welcome Back, REALTORS®
Steve Turner, REALTOR®
Joshua Bates, REALTOR®
Steve returns to Cobb Marietta after beginning his career in this office in 1992. He is a Marietta native who currently lives in the city with his wife and daughter. His expertise includes working with buyers and sellers of residential real estate, land, foreclosures, short sales and investors in Cobb and surrounding counties. He is committed to exceeding your expectations and making your real estate transactions a successful one.
After a few months away, Josh has returned to our office. The first years of his professional life were spent serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps (where he honorably retired) and his community as a Law Enforcement officer. He is married and has two children. Josh has professionally worked with buyers and sellers in the Cobb County area since then. He looks forward to helping people find the home of their dreams.
770-880-5169
770-355-5595
Harry Norman, Realtors® Cobb Marietta Office 776 Whitlock Ave., Marietta, GA 30064
770-422-6005
Lane Jones - Vice-President, Managing Broker
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(11) 11
11
6/2/2014 8:00:45 AM
TALK OF THE TOWN EVENTS
Mark Knautz, Alex and Dawn Koutouzis, Mike Mackey, Liz and Hunter Meadows, Randy and Bob Murphy, Pam and Newton McCurdy, Jamie Instead of Groovin’ on the Green, parents, Reubens, Kelly and Bill Schreiner, Amy and faculty, administration, and staff of The Walker Brad Slade, Matthew and Jennifer Smith, Jan School were Rockin’ in the Warehouse. The and Phil Steffen, Kitty Drew and Terry Strecker, Chastain-style concert featuring the popular Paul and Caroline Tezza, Jud and Carrie band Yacht Rock Schooner was moved to a Thompson, Nadine and Kevin Tilley, Suzanne warehouse space owned by Fleming Flooring & and Cliff Waddington, and Terri and Jim Woods. Design Centers when Mother Nature flexed her Fleming Flooring and Design Centers, Smyrna muscles with the threat of rain. Patrons of the Arts, Truck & Cargo, 3 C Software, Haynie, Litchfield, Walker Backers, and Walker School Association Crane, & White Attorneys, Brand Mortgage, sponsored the community-building event. Marietta Wrecker, Atlanta West Dentistry, Gregory, Extra Credit, a band comprised of Walker teachers, opened for Yacht Rock Schooner and Doyle, Calhoun, & Rogers, Ford and Shannon By Sally Litchfield gave an impressive performance. Band members Bohannon, Tracy and Aaron Rathbone along with included Katie Arjona, Richard Gibson, Rob Holman, Todd Meaghan and Dan Timko, and Jazzy Artz gift boutique where Motter, Erik Kofoed, and Samantha Walker. fun people shop sponsored the event. Four-hundred attended the event including Carrie and Ray Aho, Susan Bargo, Krista and Todd Baughn, Sandy and vvv Gary Blohm, Bryce Brickhouse, Ellen and Clay Carmack, Majorie and Tom Clarke, Christie Cook, Kristie and Scott In May, a group of women leaders from Cobb County Cowan, Ira Dawson, Bina and Bharat Desai, Liz Bouis attended the bi-partisan Congressional Club’s 102nd First and Randy Fields, Gayle and Barry Foy, Jeanine and Skip Lady’s Luncheon in Washington D.C. Harper, Joan and Mike Hayden, Allison King, Janet and
12
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(12) 12
6/2/2014 8:02:08 AM
The executive women included Cassandra Buckalew, of Historic Marietta Trolley Co.; Cassy Ferrell, of Vinings Bank; Kim Gresh, of S.A. White Oil Company; Tricia Pridemore, Angela Shipp, of Cobb EMC; and April Wright, of 524 Creative. Arriving under a rain deluge, the travelers toured the Capitol and sat in on a session in the House of Representatives chambers. Later, they attended an event supporting Pridemore at the Capitol Hill Club, where Speaker of the House John Boehner just happened to be visiting. Hosts of the reception for Pridemore included Reps. Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-Wash.), Diane Black (R-Tenn.), Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Renee Elmers (R-N.C.) and Martha Roby (R-Ala.). The group also joined more than 1,500 people, mostly women, from across the world in the Washington Hilton hotel ballroom for the First Lady’s Luncheon, a bi-partisan event organized annually by the Congressional Club. Guests included members and spouses of the executive cabinet, members of the Supreme Court and their spouses, and spouses of members and former members of Congress. In her keynote address, First Lady Michelle Obama spoke about the importance of education and investing in youth and their future. Electric violinist and local Atlantan Ken Ford entertained with a lively performance, which included an arrangement of “Georgia” — drawing cheers from the Cobb County group upon the first note.
CELEBRATIONS More than 150 family and friends gathered last month for the celebration of 70th birthday of Ronnie Knighton and Ray Denard. Ronnie’s wife, Nita, hosted the party. Ronnie and Ray have been close friends for 57 years. Fond memories were shared about the birthday boys by the many friends attending. Guests enjoyed barbecue including Boston Butts prepared by Marietta Attorney and friend Jim Maher. Among the crowd were Nancy Bodiford, Babe and Bill Byrne, Penny and Alton Caudell and Dana. James Caudell, Joe and Jack Chastain, Frank Cox, Joyce and Melvin Denard, Rita Haynes, Julia and Ed Mote, Pat and Janet McPherson, Sean McPherson, Dan Tatum, Shelia Thompson, Kimberly and John Watson, and the list goes on, and on, and on.
vvv The 2014 Glory in the Garden, a fundraiser of the Marietta Educational Garden Center in Marietta, recently took place. Ellen and Clay Carmack, Lorie and Kevin English, Alice and Steven Fazekas, and Dana and Jeff White swept the table decorating contest with a tablescape inspired by the Disney movie “Frozen.” The focal point was the winter wonderland ice tree: a prelit white burch adorned with live bridal wreath spirea, white hygrangea, snowlike sparkly moss branches, crystal snowflakes, tiered crystal icicles, snow balls, aqua blue sparkling fern, and dangling led lights. A floral ring covered in white hygrangea, tulips, silver shimmer ribbon, and moss served as the base. Handmade signs that sparkled in the night were created with movie theme accents such as “Let it Go,” “I Like Warm Hugs,” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” Olaf’s noses were included and if you looked close enough, there were even little moss covered trolls with ears made from clay. The group ate from silver chargers with glass plates accented with moss. Power was provided for the tree from a car battery and converter. A true winter wonderland.
CL_Summer2014(13) 13
6/3/2014 3:08:22 PM
news & noteworthy [food and dining] Henry’s Louisiana Grill opens new upstairs dining space Those who have endured waits for a table at the enormously popular Henry’s Louisiana Grill will be glad to hear that the Acworth restaurant has a new upstairs space open on weekends with more seating. Henry’s Uptown, located just above Henry’s Louisiana Grill, has a full bar and serves Southern-inspired Cajun cuisine, a menu designed by award-winning Chef Henry Chandler. The upstairs bar was built by Randy Shaw, owner of Architectural Glass, Henry’s neighbor on Main Street, who designed the current bar in the main dining room downstairs. The newly renovated upstairs space was previously used as an overflow waiting area and for special events. Henry’s continues to take special/private event bookings on weeknights. Guests can sit at new high-top tables, enjoy a beverage
14
in the lounge or be seated for dinner in the new freshly created dining area. Henry’s Uptown area is now open Wednesdays during crawfish season through May from 5 to 10 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday nights, from 5 to 11 p.m. Henry’s Louisiana Grill is at 4835 N. Main Street, Acworth. For more information, go to www.chefhenrys.com or call (770) 966-1515.
Kennesaw culinary on wheels Kennesaw’s Downtown Development Authority will partner with local food trucks every Monday through Sept. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. to host “Dinner at the Depot.” The food trucks will gather in Depot Park, 2829 Cherokee Street in Kennesaw, weather permitting. Participants will be able to purchase food to grab-and-go or picnic in the park. The KDDA will communicate details about the slate and number of trucks via their Dinner at the Depot Facebook page.
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(14) 14
6/2/2014 8:03:23 AM
[arts and culture]
Cobb Daylily Society and Atlanta Daylily Society holding show The Cobb County Daylily Society and the Greater Atlanta Daylily Society are hosting their annual Daylily Show and Plant Sale at the Cobb Galleria June 21. Judging begins at 10 a.m. and the daylilies will be available for viewing from 1 to 3:30 p.m. A plant sale takes place at 10
a.m. The show features a wide array of daylilies on display and also features flower show designs and other companion plants for purchase. Information: Cynthia Rigsby at 770.951.2539.
dk Gallery hosts special father-son tribute show In tribute to Father’s Day and sharing the love of art with the children of this generation, worldrenowned Georgia artists, Thomas Arvid and Steve Penley, and their sons will have a special show together at dk Gallery titled Like Father Like Son. The event takes place June 14, from 2 to 5 p.m. Gracing the gallery walls with their artistic talent, brothers, Jimmy Arvid, 13, and Christopher Arvid, 11, team up with Lyall Penley, 11, to share their paintings alongside their fathers. dk Gallery’s focus has always been to create and cultivate a community of art excellence and this show is focused on the importance of cultivating the love of art starting at a young age. It’s never too early to introduce the world of art and art collecting to children. The father artists of Like Father Like Son, Thomas Arvid and Steve Penley, will awe and inspire the young and old alike. Thomas Arvid possesses an unerring ability to refine a moment. In doing so he captures our wonder and has become an art world phenomenon. Arvid astounds viewers with the intricate details of his images and with his mastery of light, depth, and reflection. Steve Penley was raised in Macon, Georgia. As with any child growing up in modern America, television imagery was a heavy influence on his life, and probably had a major impact on his choice of subject matter. Another big influence early on in Penley’s life came from the world of comic books. By the time he reached college at the University of Georgia, he had already trained himself to render objects with incredible realism. He later spent time at the School of Visual Arts in New York before returning to Atlanta. Penley has picked up on pop art’s imagery, but his work lacks that movement’s sarcastic edge. He has chosen subjects familiar to everyone, For more information about the dk Gallery artists and events, visit their website www.dkgallery.us or call them at 770.427.5377. dk Gallery is located at 25 West Park Square in Historic Downtown Marietta.
CL_Summer2014(15) 15
6/2/2014 8:03:59 AM
During our tenth year of publication, we are catching up with people who have been featured in Cobb Life. Join us as we go on this journey of
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
One of Cobb’s great painters continues to produce hyper-realistic paintings of cars, but has branched out into people and still life as well. Yes, the work is paying off for D AV E W E N D E L
BY MICHAEL PALLERINO
CL_Summer2014(16) 16
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM BENNETT
6/3/2014 12:03:49 PM
Dave Wendel in his studio taking a break from a new still life of pears and blueberries.
CL_Summer2014(16) 17
6/3/2014 12:05:19 PM
The pursuit of perfection isn’t easy.
David Wendel knows this. He has spent the last 32 years of his professional life chasing the artist’s dream. And, as Wendel will admit, as challenging as finding perfection can be at times, the Marietta artist wouldn’t have it any other way.
These days, Wendel finally is able to devote 100 percent of his time to his passion. In the past, he had split the discipline with his successful graphic arts career. “It feels wonderful. I’ve been fortunate enough to show at many galleries [over the past few years], including a sold out show in California, and shows in New York and Vancouver. There are now five galleries showing my work in the South.” Business, as they say, is good. After exploring various media and paint applications, Wendel has adopted a renewed, long-term focus on realism. He currently is working on a series of large paintings (4-feet x 6-feet) based on photographs he took on beaches the last few years. Ancient Japanese tapestries have been of interest of late as well, as the influence continues to dominate his latest works. A recent series of floral pieces is on display at dk Gallery on the Marietta Square. The last few years have been a learning experience like none other. “Experience is everything to moving forward,” Wendel says. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet many fine artists. The same concepts and attitudes that move any art lover, moves me also. It has been fantastic to take that into the creative process. As far as subject matter, small things imagined as big things continue to interest me.”
2220 Atlanta Rd SE • Ste. 104 • Smyrna, GA 30080 In House Lab
CALL (770) 435-6888 For More Info Se Habla Español!
Denture Repair
DON’T HAVE YOUR CO-PAY DON’T WORRY In-house financing available! No Credit Check. No Interest. (Restrictions may apply. Not valid with other discounts. Must have valid insurance, checking account required.)
cosmetic dentistry • implants • surgical extractions • dentures • plus more
Quality Classic Dentures ......................$350 Quality Classic Partial Dentures ........$375 Flipper ........................................................$175 Complete Exam & X-Rays ......................$65 Healthy Mouth Cleaning ........................$69 Ginigivitis Cleaning ..................................$99 COUPON Deep Cleaning ........................................$499 Crowns (base pfm) ................................$575 Veneers ......................................................$795 Out-of-Pocket Expense For Patient with Insurance. Simple Extractions ....................................$80 Other discounts are not included. Does not include deductible. Mini Implants............................................$599 Some restrictions may apply.
25% OFF
18
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(18) 18
6/3/2014 12:06:43 PM
Wendel began painting when he was a teenager. After graduating from the University of Georgia’s graphic design program, he set out to find his way as a professional and artist. During the last couple of years, Wendel took time to learn different subject matters and executions, a learning curve he says had to happen. For example, using larger brushes was an invaluable experience. Today, each of the galleries that feature his work has its own vibe, which keeps things interesting. And while the subject matter may alternate, style and execution are the commonality. “Focusing on the realism in a set series of pieces gives me both a guidance and clarity of purpose currently needed in the work,” he says. Moving forward, Wendel is excited to be a part of Cobb’s evolving art community. He cites dk Gallery owner Donna Krueger as a driving force behind the evolution. As for Wendel, he continues to do his part best in encouraging and welcoming artists of all disciplines achieve their own unique space in the art community. “It’s an honor to be part of this vibrant group of artists,” Wendel says. “I feel very much part of the community. My wife, Kate, and I have lived in Cobb for Wendel’s work is currently in several galleries across the nation. 35 years, raising two boys, so it’s home. To be able to devote my total time to it has been immensely satisfyHere is one of his macro portraits of silverware. ing. It’s an amazing time to live here. It’s really vibrant and alive.”
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(19) 19
19
6/3/2014 12:08:02 PM
LOOK HOT, stay cool After Georgia’s unpredictable, did-that-just-happen, frosty winter, more than a few of us are ready to welcome the summer sun with open arms. But we all know that, as wonderful as the summer is for the soul and spirit, its heat and humidity can be equally as brutal. There are obvious “no ma’am’s” when it comes to the summer wardrobe, but what are the “yes ma’am’s?” If you remember nothing else when shopping this summer, remember one word: Bohemian. Fringe, chains, hair accessories, stacked bracelets, bold prints, lace, effortless tops and embroidery detail are all the rage this season and all give that bohemian chic look. Here are some ways to stay cool and stylish with a bit of a bohemian flair this summer:
Bring on the color Goodbye, blacks and greys of the winter. Bright, bold colors — particularly hot pink, turquoise and a variety of yellows — are great for bringing out the sunshine in your wardrobe. Go all out with bright floral prints or add pops of color to a basic outfit. And don’t be afraid to mix and
BY KATY RUTH CAMP PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM BENNETT
20 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(20) 20
Summer 2014
6/3/2014 12:12:04 PM
Bright colors are hot for summer, whether it’s a multicolored floral dress or a pop of color in an accessory. Kennesaw resident Katie Owerbach models clothes provided by L. michelle in Marietta.
CL_Summer2014(20) 21
6/2/2014 3:40:07 AM
match. One bright color alone can be just as impactful as several colors mixed into one print. Pair bright pink shoes with a bold print dress. Stack multiple bracelets of different colors on one arm. Pair a bright fedora with a linen shirt and denim shorts.
A crowning statement Hair is not just for ironing and curling – it’s all about accessorizing. Head chains, stretchy head bands, head ties, head wraps and floral accents are super chic, cool and comfortable. They are great for bringing a pop of unique style to any look, especially dresses and festival wear. Head chains look best with long hair worn down, particularly with bangs out and framing the face, while head bands work on virtually any hairstyle. Hair ties and head bands also look great tied or with the accent tilted to one side and with hair piled in a messy knot on top. This is particularly nice for looking cute and chic while staying cool in the heat.
CL_Summer2014(22) 22
6/3/2014 12:18:59 PM
Everything’s in bloom Just like hair accessories, florals are huge this summer as the bohemian chic look bursts onto the scene. Keep that in mind while building your summer wardrobe and you will look modern, stylish and chic. Whether you find a maxi dress in an artistic floral print or simply incorporate simple florals into your accessories, you will rock summer fashion. And the floral trend isn’t just for the girly girls – bold, funky and retro floral prints and accessories are just as on-trend as pretty, pastel florals.
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(23) 23
23
6/3/2014 12:21:44 PM
Knot it up Feel like you need to jazz up that overly-flowy shirt or want to show off high-waisted shorts and skirts? Knot it up! This 80s trend is back, in a much more subtle way. Knotting your shirts is a great way to cinch your waist, elongate your legs and add a bit of cool to even the most ordinary outfit. You can either tie it in a knot in the front or to the side
by tying the shirt, if there is enough material, or using a hair tie to knot the fabric and spreading the fabric to hide the tie. And, speaking of knots, the messy top knot hair style is effortlessly chic while also keeping your hair off your neck and off your face. This shows off your face while combatting sweat and frizz.
STAGES PREMIER opens its NEW COBB OFFICE Drop in for a visit. We are conveniently located just 2 blocks East of the Avenues of West Cobb & 2 miles west of Barrett Pkwy. 3475 Dallas Hwy., Suite 402 Marietta, GA 30064
404-662-2300
Personal attention and the latest technology combine for a luxury experience in any price range.
With over 15 years in real estate, I bring a wealth of experience to my clients. Whether buying or selling, I make sure you have up to date market information and the best care you can receive. Focused on what matters, THE CLIENT.
a better real estate experience™
Mavis Anderson Managing Broker/Owner Cobb Office Cell: 770.605.9066 mavis.anderson@stagesre.com www.mavisanderson.com
Considering a Career in Real Estate? Call me!
24
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(24) 24
6/2/2014 3:14:37 AM
Wardrobe provided by: L. michelle Marietta Square 35 N Park Sq NE, Marietta
(770) 422-4255
Jewelry provided by: little crow handmade jewelry www.etsy. com/shop/ littlecrowshop
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(25) 25
25
6/2/2014 11:50:19 AM
By Joel Groover h
Photography by Sam Bennett and courtesy of Randy Hancock
Last fall a gaggle of kids gathered on the court at East Cobb’s Harrison Tennis Center as Randy Hancock, a Woodstock resident who has coached tennis in Cobb and Cherokee for the past 20 years, tweaked their crosscourt shots. Most of the kids had no idea Coach Randy had just returned from a two-week adventure in the wilds of South America. His trip to a remote tributary of the Amazon River even included a close call right out of the 1981 movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” “It got a little hairy on the way out,” Hancock said. “The pilots needed to find a stretch of river that was long and straight enough to give the floatplane sufficient time and lift to clear the trees. In this case, they didn’t have quite enough room: On takeoff, the pilot had to use the actual bend of the river to get enough space and speed to lift off. Honestly, we missed the trees by less than 50 feet.” But for Hancock, a world-class angler whose sponsors include the likes of Daiwa, Pelican, Duckett Fishing, Mojo Sportsgear, SmartShield sunscreen and Boomerang Tool Co., braving a risk or two is nothing new. The 53-yearold adventure junkie routinely travels thousands of miles to rugged and remote destinations—places where fish and wildlife abound, but people are scarce. “This was my fifth trip to the Amazon,” he said. “My dad was in the Air Force, and we lived in the Republic of Panama for 10 years starting when I was eight. So for me, going back to the jungle is sort of like going home.”
CL_Summer2014(26) 26
6/3/2014 12:27:05 PM
Above, Randy Hancock with one of his gigantic catches on the Amazon. Far left, Hancock instructs Natalie Costen, 9, daughter of Rosa and Jeff Costen of Marietta. Left, Hancock shows some of his equipment. Opposite page: Tennis instructor Hancock coaches one his students, Luke Paxton, 8, son of Chris and Pryor Paxton of Marietta.
CL_Summer2014(26) 27
6/2/2014 3:41:26 AM
In addition to coaching tennis players of all ages, Hancock runs Woodstock-based Outdoor Experiences, a business geared toward helping people enjoy and appreciate the natural world. “I work with individuals, families and small groups to help them do things that are adventurous and maybe a bit out of the norm for the average person,” he explained. “I might take clients tarpon-fishing off the coast of Florida, whitewater rafting in North Georgia or on a guided fishing trip in my 20-foot bass boat on Lake Lanier. It’s all about having memorable experiences in the outdoors.” Hancock’s most recent adventure was a personal trip undertaken with his parents, Earl and Pat, both of whom are avid anglers. “Dad celebrated his 75th birthday down in the Amazon,” Hancock said. The sights included 12-foot-long, alligator-like caimans swimming uncomfortably close to the jon boats; pods of pink-colored river dolphins cruising for piranha and peacock bass; rainbow-colored flocks of parrots and macaws clustering in treetops; and even a pair of giant river otters—elusive and endangered creatures that can grow five feet in length. Getting to the remote spot roughly 4,000 miles away took some doing. “I drove to Ocala, Florida, where I picked up my parents,” Hancock said. “We then drove to Miami International Airport, checked into a hotel and got up at about 3 a.m. to catch a flight to Manaus, Brazil.” The next morning, the anglers boarded a floatplane and headed northwest nearly 300 miles into the Amazon River basin. “We were on Rio Caures, a tributary of the Rio Negro River, which flows into the Amazon River,” Hancock explained. “Rio Caures is large when you’re on it, but it looks very small on a map, because the Amazon is so vast.” Hancock carried a DeLorme InReach SE satellite communicator
28 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(28) 28
for the entirety of the journey, so his followers and sponsors were able to track his movements via the Outdoor Experiences Facebook page. The party (eight anglers in all) slept in enclosed pontoon boats, which Hancock describes as “floating bungalows.” Mercifully, they were air-conditioned via a gas-powered generator. “The average temperature was between 90 and 105 degrees,” Hancock said. “On a typical day, we would get a wake-up call at 5 o’clock in the morning, have breakfast and then head out in the jon boats to fish for the next 10 or 12 hours.” The trip was more physically demanding than usual as a result of relentless downpours. “It rained every single day, and for most of the day,” Hancock said. “To stand out in the rain for 10 or 12 hours and make literally over 8,000 casts in a week is hard work. But there are so many things to see if a person just opens his eyes and appreciates what’s there.” Throughout the catch-and-release fishing trip, Hancock focused on one highly prized fish in particular: Cichla temensis, which is among several species of peacock bass found in South America. “Cichla temensis is the largest and most ferocious in terms of the fight and the strike,” Hancock said. On the last day, he used a 5.5inch “RipRoller” lure by HighRoller Fishing Lure Co. to snag his biggest fish of the trip: An iridescent, 24-pound peacock bass that had attacked the cigar-shaped lure with characteristic tenacity. “A trophy Chichla temensis is considered anything above 12 to 15 pounds,” he said. “The current world record is 29.1 pounds.” All told, Hancock caught around 150 fish from an array of exotic species, including plenty of toothy pacu and piranha. On its website, Califon, N.J.-based Acute Angling, which organized the trip, describes some of these Amazonian fish in detail. Trairão, for
Summer 2014
6/2/2014 11:51:53 AM
example, are considered “fantastic fighters, attacking lures both on the surface and below with gut-wrenching violence … accentuated by prodigious, head-shaking leaps.” The barracuda-like bicuda (B. cuvieri) “are a prized Amazon adversary. Taking to the air instantly, they keep the fight right where the angler can see it, above the water. Their repeated jumps and bony mouths make landing a big specimen an exceptional angling accomplishment.” Pirarara, or red tail catfish, are true “river monsters” sometimes weighing more than 100 pounds. “The 30-pounder I caught was small by comparison,” Hancock said. But one sight on the trip was scarier than even the meanest-looking piranha. “I flew over some of the clear-cutting in the Amazon, and it is a sad thing,” Hancock said. “That’s part of why I consider my work at Outdoor Experiences so important. Especially in today’s society, when things are moving at such a rapid rate, once in awhile we just have to slow down and appreciate what we have around us. I want today’s youth to learn this and pass it on to the next generation as well.”
Multi-Millon Dollar Producer
(678) 631-1713 Direct Line
Visit my website @ www.suehilton.com An Independent Member Broker
CL_Summer2014(29) 29
(678) 631-1700
6/2/2014 11:41:42 AM
Clockwise: A child crosses the doorway leading into the La Fuente clinic where Nathan Wilson serves as pediatrician to the people of Cusco, Peru. Fresh fruits and vegetables in abundance and the high price of processed foods make it easier to experience the luxury of granadillas and papayas. The hills surrounding Cusco, Peru, are filled with high-altitude. Right, The Wilson family, featureing former Marietta resident, Audrey. From left, Nathan, Audrey, Jacob, Joshua, Peter, Lydia and John Wilson.
McEachern to las montañas By Adam Miller
As we descend into the Cusco Valley on a Peruvian Airlines flight from Lima, my new friend, Jorge, tells me of his three-month study with the Columbian novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez and how coca leaves and a two-hour nap will save you from altitude headaches. Jorge is taller than me (and I’m 6’2”) which makes him, I am to learn at baggage claim and throughout our stay, among the tallest people in Cusco. He’s come home from Toronto — where he works in the film industry — to visit family. “Half of Cusco looks like my grandfather. The other half looks like the priests,” says Jorge, attempting a joke that I do not get immediately about this two-mile-high city in the middle of nowhere. Before Cusco became famous for tourism because of Machu Picchu and other ancient ruins, it served as the capital of the Incan empire, which stretched latitudinally along western South America with a breadth, strength and structure that rivaled Rome. By car, a trip from Lima to Cusco covers 600 miles and takes 24 hours through rough and dangerous travel along fraught-filled roads. Modern travel — courtesy of Peruvian Airlines — covered that distance in two hours. And then we were there. In less than a day’s travel from Marietta’s suburbs, my wife Megan, our son Benjamin, 11, and I were hoisting our bags from the carousel and walking into the Andes Mountains. We were immediately breathless. Yes, because of beauty. But also because we had just entered a city twice as high as Denver.
30 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(30) 30
Summer 2014
Megan’s sister, Audrey Wilson, moved to Peru two years ago with her husband Nathan and their five children to provide medical care for the people of Cusco as missionaries with Mission To The World, a Presbyterian organization. Even though Cusco’s main industry is by far tourism, many of the conveniences and luxuries provided for outsiders have yet to reach the city’s poor. This is why Nathan, a pediatrician, joined a team of medical professionals at a local clinic. La Fuente (which literally translates “The Fountain”) has stood out as a source of hope, an oasis of sorts, for people used to impersonal medical care. The clinic provides dentistry, opthalmology, pediatrics, general medicine and physical therapy on a sliding scale, which means the poorest of the poor can receive the same medical care as the wealthiest. People have been known to travel 14 hours out of the jungle to come to La Fuente. “They come here, even if they have insurance to cover other doctors, because we don’t yell at them,” says Nathan. There’s also the common sentiment that you don’t go to a Cusco hospital unless you’re pretty sure you’re going to die. Otherwise your risk of dying increases. This is why another of the Wilsons’ assignments is to mentor and train young medical students studying
6/2/2014 2:51:42 AM
at the medical schools in Cusco. La Fuente was recently placed on the official rotation for medical students, so the opportunities for influence have grown dramatically.
Audrey (formerly Audrey Cutler) was the valedictorian at McEachern High School in 1995. She always thought she would end up in the mission field. “Most people only see one side of Cusco, but the side we see is shown to us through the stories of the people who’ve lived here their whole lives,” said Audrey. “They’re heartbreaking. There is some real brokenness here that most people don’t see. And I think that’s why God has placed us here.” Also a medical doctor, Audrey spends most of her time raising five kids, ages 3 to 11, in a city of stray dogs, Darwinian traffic laws and a two-hour flight away from the closest reliable hospital. So needless to say, I didn’t expect to see a shopping mall. When the Real Plaza (pronounced “Ray Al Plassa” in Spanish) shopping mall was built in Cusco in November, Nathan told me how the native Quechua women (pronounced Catch You Uh) stood perplexed at the base of the escalator. Such a wonder had never entered the Peruvian
CL_Summer2014(30) 31
6/2/2014 2:50:50 AM
32
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(32) 32
mountain town, he told me, and the Quechua women, with their colorful alpaca bags and top hats, for once required the assistance of a westerner (my brother-in-law) to help Nathan Wilson them navigate this new dimension in their serves La Fuente hometown. clinic as a pediaWith Chili’s, The North Face store and trician, treating the a soon-to-open cineplex all within the rich and poor of confines of one enclosure, one could be Cusco, Peru, and lulled into believing that the vast expanse the surrounding of the Andes no longer lies just outside, Andean cities. separated by only a few inches of concrete and steel. The locals have since learned to navigate the halls of this intrusion of North American culture, though to say they’ve gotten used to it would be far from true. Cusqueñans (natives of Cusco) probably make similar observations when North Americans stand panting at the foot of hills locals could sprint in sandals or stand awestruck at the foot of ancient Peruvian ruins such as Machu Picchu. The year-round snowcap of nearby glaciers and the pounding heart and head and gasping lungs are a constant reminder for we lowlanders that the Chili’s Triple Play you’re enjoying has only recently arrived in the midst of the world’s second tallest mountain range. The Frapuccino you bought from the Starbucks overlooking the Plaza De Armas is only recently available in what used to be the capital of one of South America’s greatest ancient empires. The ancestors of the Incas haven’t forgotten this after 500 years, and probably after 500 more they’ll still remember. Signs of Incan-Spanish conflict are everywhere — in architecture, language and a mix of Catholicism with ancient Incan spiritism. The rich culture resulting from this history and surrounding landscape conquer the curiosity of millions of tourists every year, making tourism the city’s number one industry — thus the concurrent availability of Big Mouth Burgers and Alpaca steaks, a banana vendor guiding his hand-pulled cart past chartered buses full of tourists going to the Sacred Valley. Despite all this we experienced a little of what life (and food) were like before U.S. gourmet entered the palate. We eat choclo, a type of corn with kernels the size of grapes, that the Quechua sell for a sol — the equivalent of about 35 cents. In Aguas Caliente we catch a bus up the mountain. We meet our tour guide at the base of Machu Picchu. Fog pours through the gap between mountains. It rises and falls like smoke over everything. It dissipates with the heat of the sun then comes back like an intolerable ghost. We’re on a tour of this ancient wonder of the world with a Quechua guide and a guy named Greg — later we learn he’s Greg Kaneval, second cousin to Evil Kaneval. Greg Kaneval is an accountant on a two-week trip through South America. He’s going to Bolivia next. Two guys take awkward poses and breathe deeply at Machu Picchu’s sun dial as we pass by.
6/2/2014 2:43:46 AM
“They must be doing a sun salutation,” says Megan, who took a year of yoga classes at Kennestone Hospital. On our final morning I run into the hills and begin to understand why there are certain places in the city you might not want to go alone and why my wife’s sister and her family all have rabies vaccinations. Dogs like these have seldom seen “gringo” legs like mine running up into the neighborhoods on the hills overlooking Cusco. I have never seen so many dogs. I’ve never been this scared of dogs. When I return, my wife and her sister have that startled look you get when you see someone you’ve resigned might not return from whatever stupid adventure they’ve attempted in a city they don’t know. You know that look. On our last night, Nathan and I drive into the nearby hills for a camping trip with the kids. Thirty minutes outside of town we turn onto a dirt road 1,000 feet higher than Cusco. Passing tilled soil and herds of sheep and cows, we park in an open field where the Wilson golden retriever takes off to taunt a bull and is nearly gored. The wind is blowing hard as we set up camp. While Megan and Audrey celebrated a birthday back in town, Nathan and I are corralling his kids and my son. After hide and seek, dinner and lights out, the town glows below us, and the stars above.
Thirty minutes outside of town is the pastureland of Quechua shepherds and shepherdesses.
The Milky Way is more visible than I’ve seen in decades, and the Big Dipper is at least five times bigger and resting on the horizon. We comment on how different life and sky seem in this half of the world. In two days we’ll go home with a whole world of memories and, hopefully, a changed perspective on life outside of Marietta. “It’s a good thing to be a minority,” said Nathan, describing his family’s life in an Andean culture. My hope is that all this beauty and diversity translates into a new understanding of our place in the world.
Yard Care Made Easy. Now Celebra ting ou r
82 nd Ye in Cob Countyb !
ar
STIHL - 8000 SERVICING DEALERS NATIONWIDE
770-428-6491 COBB HARDWARE 380 Roswell St., S.E. Marietta, GA
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(33) 33
33
6/3/2014 12:27:53 PM
More than TIES and SOCKS
Father’s Day is June 15. How about this year, you forgo the usual gifts and get him something he really wants. And, yes, these gift ideas are good for all the year round. 34
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(34) 34
6/2/2014 2:45:02 AM
FOR THE AUDIOFILE: Does Dad like music? You’ve got to check these headphones out. Leave the Beats by Dre to the kids, these Reclaimed Wood Headphones are not only classy to look at and have a timeless feel, they also possess prime audio quality. What’s better? Oh, yeah, they are handcrafted. $159 from Orvis Available at stores throughout Cobb and on their website, www.orvis.com
FOR THE OUTDOORSMEN:
Perfect for a day of fishing or spending outdoors, this Rainbow Trout dri release T-shirt is specially formulated to keep your outdoorsman comfortable in hot weather. What’s better? Get it wet and it is guaranteed to dry quickly. $69 from Orvis Available at stores throughout Cobb and on their website, www.orvis.com
FOR THE GRILL MASTER: With grilling
season arriving with full force, what better gift to get Dad than a variety pack of BBQ sauces from Williamson Brothers BBQ in Marietta, which features their best flavors. From back left: Roasted Garlic, Classic Carolina, Spicy Chipotle, Honey BBQ, and Original. Available at Williamson Brothers with locations in Cobb. Prices vary, but we recommend the case, which includes five bottles, for $18.45. Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(34) 35
35
6/2/2014 2:45:47 AM
FOR THE GOURMAND: El Diablo is the newest speciality mustard to hit the market. What makes it different? It can be used not only on burgers, but is also recommended for the grill. The mustards come in a variety of flavors, most interestingly the Roasted Chipolte and Mango. All in all, El Diablo has six flavors available. Prices range depending on store Available at Publix, Kroger and other stores.
FOR THE GADGET GUY: Power strips are great. But are they easy to work with? Not exactly. That’s why we recommend the Quirky Pivot Power Surge Protector. This ‘power strip’ not only has all the outlets available on most strips, it is flexible. That means when you’re hooking up everything, you can avoid all the bending and twisting of power cables. $19.99 at RadioShack
CL_Summer2014(36) 36
6/3/2014 3:06:23 PM
Attention Sciatica and Low Back Pain Sufferers... Could One Hour With Our Doctors Give You The Answer To Your Disc Pain? Now, in Acworth, GA, Dr. Erin Arnold, D.C. & Dr. Amy Valente, D.C. have what may be the most important breakthrough in non-surgical back pain treatment. Before and after MRI studies have shown disc bulges shrink in size - even with the most painful cases of L4-L5 & L5-S1 herniations. If you've had disc problems for years, recently injured your back,or you're suffering with sciatica,you must hear about these new studies.Scientific studies tell us that spinal discs are responsible for most of the aches and pains people suffer from. Discs act like a cushion between our backbones and allow for a space at each level so the nerves can exit the spinal column. When these discs get injured or wear out from bad posture, they begin to degenerate and cause pain. Bulging and herniations begin to form, pressing on the nerve roots. If the herniations occur at L4-L5,they can severely compromise the large sciatic nerve, causing muscle weakness, tingling, and severe pain. The most common invasive treatment for disc herniations is surgery. This costs quite a bit of money. Even with health insurance the patient is left with their own portion of the bill, in excess of $10,000-$15,000, and sometimes more. The recovery time and missed work can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months, not to mention the obvious severe risks associated with all surgery. But here's the biggest problem… there is a high failure rate of back surgery. One medical study found that on average, 53% of L5-S1 back surgeries fail to produce relief of symptoms (International Orthop 1987.) Before You Go Under The Knife And Opt For Spinal Surgery… You should seriously consider a less invasive approach called spinal decompression. Non-surgical spinal decompression is a new technology that has been proven to reverse disc herniations. It creates a vacuum effect on the disc, which pulls the disc back into its normal position and brings in a fresh blood supply to promote healing. Do You Have A Disc Problem? If you experience any of the following in your back or neck, chances are your pain is due to a disc bulge, herniation or degeneration: • A vice-like squeezing feeling in your back • Sitting causes back or leg pain • Stabbing pain at the belt line or in your neck • Can't turn over in bed without hurting • Numbness in your toes or fingers • Fire down your legs • Searing pain radiates into your arm • Prickling in your leg or toes Finally, Some Good News…… If you've been suffering with back pain or arm/leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs. Until recently, the only advice for many of you suffering in pain was to try what you've been told: • Try exercising • Try physical therapy • Try pain medications • Try muscle relaxers • Try pain shots • Try dangerous back surgery • Just live with it If you're like most, none of these have worked for you or you are afraid of what could happen if you do try some of these. Exercising makes you hurt more, pain medications and muscle relaxers cover up the problem and give you side effects. Pain shots can cause more pain, don't work or don't last very long or FIX the problem, back surgery didn't work, or made you worse. Or maybe you were one of the lucky ones that back surgery actually helped, but now the problem is back with a vengeance. Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check into a Breakthrough Computerized Non-Surgical Treatment for back pain and sciatic or leg pain caused by a bulging, herniated or squashed disc or discs. It has helped hundreds of people who
were suffering just like you. This new treatment machine we are calling "the squashed disc machine." How "Good" Discs become "Bad" Discs Over time the discs in your back tend to get squashed or compressed,especially if you've played certain sports when younger or have a job that requires lots of sitting or standing in one place for long periods of time. Car accidents, lifting things, very physical jobs just to name a few. It's kind of like a cookie with cream filling, and the cream filling will start to ooze out from between the sides of the cookie if pressure is applied on top of the cookie (like gravity on our spines). Eventually this happens to a lot of us. Statistics show over 80% of Americans will suffer with back pain some time in their life. Spinal decompression treatments are very gentle. In fact, every once in a while I even catch a patient sleeping during treatment! How Does This Machine Work? Haven't you ever had the thought…"Gosh, if somebody could just pull me apart…I would feel a whole lot better." Yeah, we know you have. And it kind of makes a bit of sense. Well someone else, actually a medical manufacturer, back pain specialists, neurosurgeons and engineers have come up with just that. A machine that gently pulls you apart, stretches the disc to a certain point that causes a drop in pressure inside the disc (like a little vacuum in the middle of the cream filling) causing the cream filling to suck back in! You'll simply lie on your stomach or back, whichever is comfortable, and then a specialized belt is gently put around your waist. We'll set the machine to focus on your problem area - then the advanced decompression computer system will do the rest. Most patients feel better with just a few treatments, and best of all there will be no dangerous drugs, no invasive procedures, and no painful exercises. Does Decompression really work? Absolutely! When you come in we will provide you with studies that show why decompression is a preferred method of treatment. But what provides the best "proof" on how well decompression works is what patients say about it: Just Listen to What Our Patients Had to Say: I started at North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute for pain in my low back that traveled down my right leg. The pain felt like a burning sensation down my leg and numbness into my toes. I was unable to walk my normal 5 miles. Since starting the spinal decompression therapy I am now able to walk again without any pain. The pain and numbness down my right leg is completely alleviated. I was surprised to find that I am even sleeping better at night and that the tension in my upper back has also been relieved. The staff here has treated my great and is very caring! Thanks - Bill Norman Before I started getting spinal decompression therapy I was having severe pain in my low back and numbness down my leg constantly. I had been suffering with this for 3 years. I had two nerve abrasions, multiple steroid shots in my back, pain killers, PT and water therapy and nothing worked. After the first spinal decompression treatment I could stand up straight with very little pain. I can now sleep through the night and exercise again. I am 90-100% better and I am so thankful I found this office. Thanks, John Ratledge As you can see, spinal decompression has a high success rate with helping disc herniations, sciatica, and back pain. In just a matter of weeks you could be playing golf, enjoying your love life, or traveling again. Feel the Improvement - and Say "Yes" to Life Again With my "Decompression Evaluation" we'll be able to find the problem and then get to work on it.Think of how you'll feel in
Dr. Erin Arnold just a few short weeks. See and feel your life change for the better. Start your body on the way to pain-free, normal living, feel tight joints rest, relax, free up, muscles tied in knots will become more supple and strength in your muscles may increase. You're able to live life like a normal person again, without back pain - able to play with your kids, enjoy time with friends, and finally get a good night's rest. The Single Most Important Solution To Your Sciatica and Back Pain It's time for you to find out if spinal decompression will be your sciatic and back pain solution. For 15 days only, we're running a very special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for spinal decompression. What Does This Offer Include? Everything we normally do in our new patient evaluation. Just call before June 30th, and here's what you'll get… • An in-depth consultation about your health and well-being where the doctor will listen…really listen…to the details of your case. • A complete neuromuscular examination. • A full set of specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms. • A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • An extensive review of your MRI. • You'll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution,like is has been for so many other patients. Until June 30th, you can get everything listed here for $20.The normal price for this type of evaluation including x-rays is $250, so you're saving a considerable amount by taking us up on this offer. Here's What To Do Now: Due to the expected demand for this treatment, we suggest calling our office at once at 678-574-5678.
CALL TODAY!
678-574-5678 North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 3451 Cobb Pkwy Ste. 4 Acworth, GA 30101
PA I D A DV E R T I S I N G
CL_Summer2014(37) 37
6/2/2014 2:46:53 AM
Wings BY JOAN DURBIN R
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM BENNETT
Invented in the ‘60s, although exactly where remains in dispute, deep fried, unbreaded
chicken wings coated in a vinegar-based sauce quickly became one of America’s favorite snacks. Over the years, inventive cooks have raised the bar on the original with a vast array of sauces. The one unchanging factor for modern-day chicken wings is the presence of celery and blue cheese dressing served on the side. There are certain standards that all of the best chicken wings will consistently meet. One is that the kitchen must start with chicken that is absolutely fresh, not frozen. Another is meatiness. No one enjoys a drum or a flat that yields just a measly bite. To me, it’s not worth getting your fingers all sticky for less than two or three bites from each wing. The cooking process is also a crucial element. The oil used must be kept hot enough to quickly seal in the surface of the wing to prevent unwelcome grease from seeping into the meat while it cooks. Finally, it’s the sauce or seasoning that makes or breaks a wing. I give highest marks to kitchens that whip up their own rather than buy gallons of premade sauces wholesale. That level of culinary creativity can make good wings into great ones and forever set them apart from the ordinary. Here are a handul of wing joints thoughout the county that met all of those criteria.
CL_Summer2014(38) 38
6/3/2014 12:32:47 PM
Marietta Wings and More 1869 Cobb Parkway, Marietta (770) 955-3130 www.mariettawingsandmore.com Hidden back off the street in a strip center next to a Buick dealership, this tiny eatery has been going strong for 12 years. That success might have to do with the distinctive flavors that owner Mo Newaj imparts to his homemade sauces. The wing sauce he uses as a starting point is a good example. Ingredients include garlic, cayenne, cumin, black pepper, and a spice blend typically used in Pakistani and Indian cuisines called chaat masala that has coriander, ginger and chili powder. The result is both deliciously familiar and slightly exotic, in a good way. It’s the base for the hot sauce and is tweaked with crushed red pepper for varying degrees of heat. “Most places just use regular sauce and there’s not any flavor there,” Newaj said. “Our sauces are our own recipe.” There are 28 of those, with not a bad choice in the lot. Honey and sometimes a bit of sugar are used as sweeteners for some of the flavors.
For one of my favorites, the sweet heat wings, it’s basic hot sauce with honey and oregano to deepen the flavor profile. Fresh chopped garlic is used for the hot garlic and garlic parmesan wings. Lemon pepper wings have a bit of butter to moisten them. Halal wings are available on request. There are a few tables but business here is mostly take out, and calling in an order in advance is recommended.
Above, Marietta Wings and More owner Mo Newaj of Marietta. Top, clockwise from left: Sweet Heat, Garlic Parmesean, Cajun Honey BBQ, and Lemon Pepper.
1459 Field Park Circle | Marietta, GA 30066 www.crowderrealtyllc.com | 770-528-0300
MIKEL S. CROWLEY
mikel@crowderrealtyllc.com | 770-312-6478 “Working with Mikel to purchase our first home together was such a wonderful experience. Mikel was thorough, highly knowledgeable, and available at any time. She listened and guided us in our search without pushing in what is often a stressful endeavor. We truly felt Mikel was there for us 100% and she was just as excited as we were when we found our new home.” Michelle Alvarez-Herbig, Marietta, GA
CL_Summer2014(39) 39
6/3/2014 12:38:01 PM
Wings
Left, Chef Marvil Rodney of Marietta holds a plate of jerked chicken wings served with mango salsa and plantains (also at top). If you want something to complement the wings, you can always try the jerk chicken, served with a side of plantains, broccoli, and pigeon beans and rice, shown above.
CL_Summer2014(40) 40
6/2/2014 2:22:58 AM
Wings
B
orn in Jamaica, Marvil Rodney has always enjoyed cooking. He honed his craft working with culinary luminary Wolfgang Puck and in Atlanta kitchens such as the Livingston in the Georgian Terrace. Two years ago, he opened his own restaurant in a plaza just a few feet south of Windy Hill Boulevard to serve the cuisine of his homeland. All of his jerk-seasoned meats are terrific, and the jerk wings are a real treat. What sets them apart from the norm are Rodney’s special recipe for the jerk seasoning and the time-consuming process of preparing the wings. A true jerk mixture can have anywhere from a dozen to two dozen individual components. Rodney’s has around 20, all fresh. “We do it the traditional way with fresh ground herbs and spices, including fresh pimiento, which actually is a berry like allspice that I bring in from Florida,” he said. There’s also thyme, garlic, green and yellow onions, cilantro, white vinegar, a touch of sugar cane and Scotch Bonnet peppers, a small pepper that packs a big wallop of heat. The name “jerk” comes “from the fact that you feel like a jerk after eating it, because it will clear your sinuses and make your nose run,” Rodney said with a smile. “We settled on a mild version that still has a kick to it, but you don’t get hit with that major heat.” Rodney grinds his ingredients into a paste, which then is undisturbed for two days to let the flavors meld. Then he spreads it all over the wings, which he allows to sit another two days, after which they are slow grilled to maximize the caramelization. Before serving, the wings are dipped in a jerk sauce containing his homemade paste plus fresh pineapple juice and chicken stock, all simmered together and reduced to concentrate the flavors. These phenomenally tasty wings are served as an appetizer, garnished with fresh mango salsa, and also can be ordered as an entrée with two side dishes, Rodney said.
Rodney’s Jamaican Soul Food 2092 Cobb Parkway, Smyrna (770) 272-1956 www.rodneyscuisine.com
CL_Summer2014(41) 41
6/3/2014 12:41:09 PM
Wings
42
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(42) 42
Lulu’s owner Ben Kellner of Kenessaw shows off the Asian Heat wings. Opposite page: GA Heat Wings, made with jalapeño peppers, cayenne pepper and Lulu’s flamin’ hot sauce and Spiked BBQ wings made with a Jack Daniels base served with grilled corn on the cob.
6/2/2014 2:27:05 AM
T
here are plenty of other choices on Lulu’s menu, but for many, it’s the 14 flavors of wings that are the big draw.
Owner Ben Kellner said the eatery will serve 1,200 to 1,400 pounds a week. “It’s our signature item. Wings are definitely the best-selling things on our menu.” The wings aren’t seasoned before they are dropped into the hot oil, where they will fry for 10 to 12 minutes before being tossed in bowls of sauces to coat them fully and evenly. Lulu’s offers five levels of heat, from mild up to Inferno and Insanity. The latter incorporates roasted ghost peppers, Scotch bonnets and habaneros, three of the hottest peppers known to mankind. “It’ll make your lips pulsate,” Kellner said with a grin. Though it’s clearly not for everyone, enough customers want Insanity’s fiery burn, although not all can finish their orders. Kellner is considering giving a T-shirt to anyone who can eat 10 at a time. Hot teriyaki wings, affectionately called hottieyaki, is teriyaki sauce with cayenne; Asian heat is teriyaki with some sriracha sauce, which has hints of sweetness and garlic with the heat. Both are quite tasty, but the sriracha mix has an edge that for my tastes, can’t be beat. Another of my favorites is Georgia Heat, which has cayenne, jalapeno juice and diced jalapenos for a pleasant zinginess. Want wings that aren’t fried? Order them slow roasted then grilled, with a side of sauce. Having a healthier option is a wonderful thing.
Wings Lulu’s Firewater Grill 3345 Cobb Parkway, Acworth (770) 975-8989 www.lulusfirewatergrill.com
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(43) 43
43
6/2/2014 2:29:38 AM
Wings
Above, from left, some of the wings at Locos including, Hot Southern Girl (spicy mustard BBQ sauce), Spicey Whitey (spicy blue cheese sauce) and the Chipotle BBQ. Top left, a smoker gives Loco’s wings an amazing flavor. Top right, General Manager Dave Pellier with a plate. Opposite page, server Madline Roberts of Kenessaw holds a plate of the regular ‘hot’ wings, and the Mean S.O.B., which is a spicy ranch flavor.
CL_Summer2014(44) 44
6/3/2014 12:48:04 PM
Loco Willy’s Tex-Mex Restaurant
Wings
800 Whitlock Avenue, Marietta (770) 499-0077 www.facebook.com/pages/ Loco-Willys
Open two and a half years with a Culinary Institute of America grad as owner and executive chef, Loco Willy’s has an eclectic mixture of Southwestern style cuisine, fresh seafood, gourmet burgers and sandwiches that is unusual to find under one roof. But owner Charles Wilhelm pulls it off with flair. Save the exploration of the rest of the menu, however, until you’ve tried Loco’s wings. Smoked out back two and a half to three hours at low temperature over hickory wood augmented with white oak or apple wood, flash fried at the end to crisp up and then slathered in one of several different sauces, these wings are unlike anything else I’d had before. The color of these wings is darker than their fried brethren because of the smoke, which adds a bit of char and tangible depth of flavor, but the smokiness is far from overwhelming. It just plays nice with all the sauces, which are made in house. Of course there are some with escalating degrees of heat, capped by one called Carolina Reaper. But some of the others are absolutely worth trying, too. As a blue cheese lover, I can recommend the Spicy Whitey, essentially the medium hot wing sauce melded with blue cheese. There are also two versions of a teriyaki wing that are excellent: one is teriyaki and regular hot sauce, the other teriyaki blended with sriracha, that savory Thai chili sauce spiked with garlic. The kitchen adds a touch of agave nectar to balance the heat. Though Loco Willy’s does offer plain grilled wings as well as the usual fried, the smoked wings are catching on fast, said Loco’s general manager Dave Pellier. “I tell people to try them and if you don’t like them, send them back and I’ll buy you some of the regular ones,” he said. “So far, I’ve never had anyone send them back.” Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(45) 45
45
6/2/2014 2:31:31 AM
Wings Wing CafĂŠ & Tap House 2145 Roswell Rd, Marietta (770) 509-9464 www.wingsinmariettaga.com
46 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(46) 46
Summer 2014
6/2/2014 2:33:06 AM
Wings John “JK” Kenny is a serious winghead. So important was it to him to serve only the top of the line in quality and variety that he went independent a year ago after being a Wild Wing Café franchiser for 18 years. A man who knows a whole lot about cooking himself, JK seeded his kitchen at Wing Café & Tap with others who knew what went into creating a superlative chicken wing. “We worked hard to redevelop the menu to make it healthier and tastier by improving some flavor profiles,” he said. At present there are 34 distinct flavors of wings available, from a mild version fit for kids and grannies to one that will blow off the top of your head and clear your sinuses for a month. That would be Coolio’s Zamunda Fire, invented by one of the café cooks and named for the African country of origin of Coolio’s Zamunda Fire Eddie Murphy’s character in “Coming to America.” mixes the hottest inCoolio mixes the hottest gredients he could find ingredients he could find into his scorching brew: ghost into his scorching brew: peppers, scorpion peppers, Thai ghost peppers, scorpichilis, habenero peppers, hot sauce, cayenne and crushed red on peppers, Thai chilis, pepper. habenero peppers, hot “Before you eat it you have to sign a waiver,” he said with a sauce, cayenne and big smile. Timidly, I licked a dot of the crushed red pepper. sauce from my fingertip, be“Before you eat it you cause well, sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do. have to sign a waiver,” Initially, the sauce has a good he said with a big smile. flavor, then it hits the back of your tongue and takes up smoldering residence there. Fortunately I knew enough to ask for a glass of milk, the only substance that reliably puts out this kind of gastronomic fire. Much more approachable for most diners would be the Rebel Yell, a winner of last year’s Lord of the Wings contest at the café for customer-created flavors. It’s a barbecue sauce that’s slightly sweet but also packs a bit of a kick. I also loved the Packer Cheesehead wings, which boasted a cheddar cheesy crust made with jalepeno juice and flecks of jalapeno pepper. Not overly hot, just fully flavored and unique. With all the wonderful sauces to choose from, JK said the smooth and creamy ranch dressing-flavored Cowboy wings outsell everything else two to one. The wings are fried in hot oil, dipped into the sauces then baked. All of the sauces here are made from scratch. A clear favorite of the local trade, Wing Café & Tap sells 30,000 wings a week. During the Super Bowl, that rises to 12 to 18,000 wings in one day. Opposite page: Top, Wing and Tap House’s Coolios’ Zamunda Fire wings are so hot you need more than milk to put out the fire in your mouth. Bottom left, owner John “JK” Kenny. Bottom right, a sample of wings offered include, from front, counterclockwise, Mt. Vesuvius, General Tso’s, Rebel Yell, Spicy Garlic and Packer Cheesehead.
CL_Summer2014(47) 47
Our menu offers enticing and scrumptious appetizers, salads, a variety of seafood, meat and chicken entrees, vegetarian dishes, a wide selection of pasta dishes and specialty desserts from family recipes. We are open for Lunch and Dinner.
Consider us when catering your next event!
678.384.1169
2495 East West Connector • Suite 80 Austell, GA 30106 www.GiovannisGenuineItalian.com www.facebook.com/Giovannis-Restaurant
6/3/2014 12:48:43 PM
Wings
Rick’s Hotwings 3103 Cobb Parkway, Kennesaw (678) 453-4343 www.rickshotwings.com
From left, owner Ketan Patel, his wife Rita Patel, and their daughter-in-law Bhumika Patel, all of Acworth. Top left, Rick’s signature hot wings mixed with a medium-heat sauce, is one of the best sellers. Top right, the lemon pepper wings are also popular.
48 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(48) 48
Summer 2014
Talk about a hole in the wall. That’s Rick’s Hotwings to a T. It’s a very small storefront barely visible from Highway 41 near the WalMart, and once inside, it’s absolutely no-frills, with just a few tables and barely room to turn around. But owners Rita and Ketan Patel are obviously doing things right, because the family owned and operated eatery has been open since 2003. That’s a very good track record in the food service business. Though there are other items on the menu, mostly all fried, it’s the wings that are the main attraction. They come in four degrees of heat, with cayenne and black pepper punching up the hottest versions. Every sauce is made in house. The two biggest selling flavors here, by far, are the medium hot Buffalo-style wings and the lemon pepper, Patel said.
It’s that medium-hot version that serves as the base for other flavors like the spicy BBQ, which I liked a lot. There are just shy of a dozen sauces, and Patel said he likes to keep to just the ones that have been tried and true with customers. But he will try to customize a flavor for a customer by mixing two together. The wings can be ordered extra wet or with extra lemon pepper sprinkles and if you want it particularly crispy, just ask. As a side note, there is not and never was a Rick at Rick’s Hotwings. “Rick” is a mashup of Rita and Ketan, the Patels’ given names. You’re advised to call in your order ahead of pick up to minimize wait time. There is just Patel doing the cooking, although daughter-in-law Bhumika and son Dishart all help from time to time. The whole family lives in Acworth.
6/2/2014 2:35:47 AM
Our Family Serving Your Family Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home & Crematory invites you to explore your funeral care options at either of our locations. If you’re a United States Military Veteran, you may qualify for specific assistance programs which we can help you apply for. Veterans and civilians alike can benefit from sitting down with a Funeral Preplanning Professional to record your wishes and we are the area’s trusted experts in funeral care. For nearly 90 years, Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home & Crematory has brought comfort and peace of mind to you, your friends and neighbors.
We welcome you at our downtown chapel, just north of the historic Marietta Square on Church Street.
Additionally, our new Powder Springs location, Macland Chapel, is located at 3940 Macland Road and fully staffed by the same experienced, professional staff you’ve come to expect.
• Pre-Need Come by and meet with us to discuss what your options are
• Free Pre-Planning Kit • 2 Locations To Serve You (Marietta & Powder Springs)
• Family Owned Since 1923 • On-Site Crematories For Both Locations
Start your funeral pre-planning with us today! Veterans Benefits Available!
• Full-Service Funeral Homes
180 Church Street N.E. Marietta, GA • (770) 428-1511
www.MayesWardDobbins.com CL_Summer2014(49) 49
3940 Macland Road Powder Springs, GA • (770) 943-1511 6/2/2014 2:37:15 AM
By Michael Pallerino Photography by Sam Bennett
S
o, your mind is made up. You’ve had your eyes on a Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé — the $350,000 British handmade convertible piece of art that’s sure to turn more than its fair share of heads. Or maybe you want a Bentley, Jaguar, Porsche, Lamborghini or Ferrari. How about a BMW or Mercedes? If you’re looking for a vehicle that races over the $100,000 mark, Cobb’s Robbie Aschar wants to talk with you. Or you could just drop by Select Luxury Cars, the museumesque showroom off Cobb Parkway South in Marietta that houses an alluring portfolio of late model handpicked luxury, exotic and sports cars to satisfy the James Bond in your soul.
CL_Summer2014(50) 50
6/2/2014 2:01:35 AM
Can you say luxury? Cars sold at Select include models such as Rolls Royce, Maserati and customized sports cars.
CL_Summer2014(50) 51
6/2/2014 2:04:14 AM
The “Millionaires’ Playground,” as some car aficionados call it, has an inventory as diverse as the customers it attracts. Name another car dealership you can walk into that features six exotic and super cars valued at more than $2 million dollars in its entrance way. “It’s fun to watch people as they walk into the showroom,” said Ashcar, founder and CEO. “They are not astounded by the quality of the cars because they are expensive; it’s because they are pieces of art. When somebody decides to spend $300K on a new vehicle, they do it because it’s a piece of art.” Ashcar has grown his business from selling fewer than 100 BMW and
52
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(52) 52
Mercedes in 1994 to almost 1,000 high-end luxury cars annually. When he started in the business, he envisioned a place where people could find all the manufacturers under one roof, but didn’t feel like a used car lot. That’s where service enters the picture. While Select boasts customers who have bought at least 15 cars from it, what keeps them coming back is service. “Select is different because we really care about our customers,” said brand manager Rick Rampi. “We want them to walk away with that blown away feeling, and then tell their friends about us.” Yes, but can a dealership specializing in high-end cars really be “all things to all people?” Rampi says yes. With an inventory of cars ranging in price from $15,000 to $350,000, the majority of the ones Select sells (about 80 percent) are BMWs, Porsches, Mercedes Benz and Audis. “Most people don’t think they can ever afford a luxury vehicle, but that simply isn’t true,” Rampi said. “We make it affordable to own a luxury vehicle and are constantly looking to refine our customer service experience to evoke that ‘wow’ emotion.” There are other tweaks that keep customers coming back. For example, the Select team scours inventories across the country to make sure they are maintaining the most competitive prices. And then there’s Select’s new business model. Six months ago, it unveiled a concept that may revolutionize the way people get their luxury brands serviced. Select Luxury Service is unlike anything the luxury vehicle market has seen. The one-stop shop concept enables customers to buy and service their vehicles all in one location. Each car on the lot is inspected and reconditioned. If the vehicle doesn’t meet Select’s standards, it is wholesaled out. After customers purchase a vehicle, the Select team follows up with them to see that everything meets their expectations. If not, Select fixes the problem. “You can be confident that if you’re looking at one of the vehicles on our lot it is of high quality,” Rampi said. “Customers don’t grow on trees. Once we earn your business once, we want to earn it for all of your luxury vehicles.” Select plans to bring the concept to market by investing in its expansion. It currently is studying another location in Atlanta and has been approached by investors to expand into other states. Rampi said the premise is simple: “We sell more than just high quality luxury cars; we sell your dream as a child, your favorite past time, your slice of life and your weekend getaway.”
6/3/2014 12:49:36 PM
UNDER THE HOOD Select Luxury Cars & Service 985 Cobb Parkway South Marietta, GA 30060 Phone: (770) 421-0070 www.selectluxury.com Sales Hours Mon-Fri: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun: Closed Service Hours Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sun: Closed
CL_Summer2014(53) 53
Director of Business Development Adler Dehner of Marietta, left, and Brand Manager at Select Luxury Cars Rick Rampi of Marietta with a souped-up customized Dodge Viper.
6/3/2014 12:51:49 PM
The sanctuary of
Sea Island The recently opened The Inn at Sea Island offers a more budget-friendly option for vacationing at this coastal treasure
CL_Summer2014(54) 54
6/4/2014 10:35:31 AM
We slid our kayaks onto the soft bank and set out to explore. The gentle waters had left behind a landscape of rippled sand, and a treasure trove of shells. As we traverse the sandbar, our guide points out wildlife — a crab scurrying to the water, birds pecking at the debris — and shares his vast knowledge of this stretch of Georgia’s coast. In the distance a heron gazes into the ocean, taking in the tranquility of the scenery just as I am, reflecting on the peacefulness such an environment inspires. That sense of appreciation and preservation of natural habitat is what gives Sea Island its charm. Though it has all the amenities expected of a modern, first-class posh resort, its grand architecture, embraced by sweeping live oaks and warm Southern hospitality, gives it an old-world feel. This little slice of heaven has been a favorite among generations of well-heeled families, dignitaries and celebrities for over 85 years. Now, the recently opened The Inn at Sea Island, which is a five-minute drive from the resort’s main entrance, offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious families. (Current rates start at $155 a night). The Inn is modeled after the signature classical Mediterranean design seen throughout Sea Island of arches and red-tiled roofs, but with a more casual interior. The hotel has cozy rooms and a chic outdoor seating area near the pool. Other amenities include continental breakfast, a workout room and club storage for golfers. A shuttle provides complimentary transportation to and from the resort’s other properties. If you prefer to drive, your room key serves as your pass through its gated entrance. Guests at the Inn may enjoy Sea Island’s restaurants, activities and expansive grounds. (However, there is an extra fee per day for admission to the Beach Club resort, which grants access to the beach). The options for leisure and adventure are not only abundant, but exceptional in quality and experience. The spa, which earned a Five-Star designation in Forbes Travel Guide, envelops you in serenity as soon as you step into its lush waiting room. The tree-filled atrium has inviting chaise lounges that sit alongside flowing water. In addition to a steam room, sauna, heated whirlpool and huge heated indoor pool, the
CL_Summer2014(54) 55
spa has an intriguing outdoor labyrinth. A massive fitness center is also located within the spa facility. (For the ultimate in pampering, I highly recommend the supremely divine Spiced Fusion Treatment, especially after an active day. The spice-based treatment, inspired by healers in Bali, begins with a scrub made with the root of ginger. Next is a soak in a clawed-foot tub filled with essential oils and rose petals, followed by an hour-long Balinese massage.) Sea Island’s skeet shooting, tennis lessons and golf lessons are taught by consummate professionals. Fishing, kayaking, and salt marsh expeditions are led by knowledgeable guides. Horseback riding along the beach is an invigorating and breathtaking experience. The sporting club and lodge Broadfield offers a variety of seasonal hunting, fishing, sporting and organic culinary opportunities, including such unique experiences as falconry. Sea Island also has a few signature traditions that add to its charm and creates lasting memories for guests. The wildly popular Bingo night is a classy affair, with a dash of fun. Dinner jackets are required for the gents and the ladies dress up as well. The longtime host incorporates responses and callbacks with certain letter and number combinations that regular participants join in with. Or you may want to venture over to the English country manor known as The Lodge to sip on a mint julep and watch the sun set as a bagpiper dressed in traditional kilt plays on the manicured golf course overlooking Saint Simons Sound. Later in the night, By Stacey L. Evans Photography courtesy of Sea Island Summer 2014 Cobb Life
55
6/4/2014 10:38:45 AM
Saint Simons Sound. Later in the night, get cozy with your date and submit your requests for a rousing round of dueling pianos at The Cloister’s Clubroom. With its elegant crystal chandeliers hanging from an equally elegant ceiling, golden walls and grand pianos you’re living the high life in the jazz age. Or you can relax in one of the luxuriously designed rooms: Kick back with a smoke in the well-appointed Cigar Lounge. Relax on a comfortable couch in the Solarium, bathing in the sun that filters through its The pool at Sea Island’s spa. numerous tall windows. The premier Men’s Locker Room, known for its vast spread of food, is a must for male guests. And for golfers, the resort boasts three 18-hole championship courses. The island offers plenty of activities for kids of all ages as well. Camp Cloister keeps children ages 3 to 14 engaged in nature discoveries, games, crafts and outdoor activities. Dozens of other activities range from cookie-making classes to survival skills after dark. Teens have options specially catered to them as well.
888-976-0781. InnAtSeaIsland.com Getting there: Sea Island lies off the southeastern coast of Georgia, about a five-hour drive from Marietta. From Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Delta Airlines services the Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, fourteen miles from Sea Island. The resort is halfway between Savannah and Jacksonville, and is a one-anda-half-hour drive from both cities’ airports. Four miles away, McKinnon St. Simons Island Airport welcomes private aircrafts. Golf: m Three 18-hole championship courses. The Seaside Course, home to the PGA TOUR’s McGladrey Classic, is a links-style course with stunning ocean vistas. The Plantation Course winds through marsh and forest, and the Retreat Course offers a dramatic and challenging design cultivated by Davis Love III and Mark Love m More than 10 resident PGA pros call Sea Island home m Instructors at the Golf Learning Center help golfers of all skill levels improve their game through personalized, hands-on expertise. Dining options: Sea Island boasts the only Forbes fivestar rated restaurant in Georgia, the Georgian Room, and all options at the resort are on par with its culinary excellence. Not to miss: Tavola, an inviting Italian restaurant that features an open-air pizza kitchen. The food is superb and the atmosphere is both refined and relaxed. Also don’t miss out on the fresh bread and amazing cookies (the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate immediately won my heart) available in the restaurants and The Market, a shop just a short distance from The Inn.
CL_Summer2014(56) 56
6/2/2014 2:16:39 AM
what to pack in your summer getaway bag
Erbaviva Bath & Body Travel Kit Packaged in TSA-compliant sizes, Relax Bath Salts, Awaken Spray, Embrace Body Lotion and Breathe Body Wash are infused with organic essential oils, allowing you to indulge in a spa experience anytime, anywhere. An added “feel good” bonus: The fabric packaging for this kit is purchased through a project that benefits the Pwo Karen Hill Tribe of Northern Thailand and Burma, helping to run a health clinic for the children and assists villagers to transition from “slash and burn” agricultural practices to create sustainable farms. Erbaviva is a product line made from the highest quality organic and wildcrafted essential oils. ($30.00 at www.Erbaviva.com)
Guru Sandals Vacation time should be comfortable and relaxed. Even if you’re running around shopping, or on-the-go at the beach, Guru Sandals are easy to carry, comfortable, and cute. Taking inspiration from the ancient wood methiyedi sandal of India, the shoe uses natural rubber sustainably harvested, and are biodegradable, making them much better for the environment than traditional flip-flops or sandals. It’s also a sole good for the soul: Because Gurus come from trees, the brand will plant a tree in India for every pair sold. ($29.99 at www.ilovegurus.com)
Repêchage Algo Mist Hydrating Seaweed Facial Spray While everyone loves a golden, dewy glow, keeping cool and looking fresh-faced during a sticky-hot summer day can seem like an impossible feat. Applying a facial mist throughout the day will not only cool you down instantly, but will also give your skin a moisture boost, leaving it feeling revitalized and looking radiant. Aside from being a quick pick-me-up, facial sprays can also be used to help products settle into skin, avoiding an undesirable ‘makeup meltdown’. This Laminara Digitata Seaweed blend is packed with 12 vitamins and minerals,18 amino acids, 42 trace elements, and antioxidants. ($33.50 at www.repechage.com) Clairvoyant Beauty Rosewater Eye Cream After being in the sun all day, this cream will add a boost of hydration to the sensitive eye area, helping to reduce wrinkles. The lightweight blend of Bulgarian Rose and moisture-rich Coconut Oil work to diminish fine lines. ($32 at www.clairvoyantbeauty.com)
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(57) 57
57
6/3/2014 1:15:39 PM
Austell resident Ashiki Taylor’s Ice Supreme products are an almond-based alternative to ice cream.
CL_Summer2014(58) 58
6/2/2014 1:55:05 AM
A LOVE SUPREME Summer just isn’t summer without ice cream. The frozen treat cools you down, tastes like heaven and every bite is loaded with happy, carefree childhood memories. But unfortunately, ice cream is also loaded with fat, sugar and, in many brands, a ton of questionable additives. Fortunately for us, Austell resident Ashiki Taylor, creator of Ice Supreme, makes a healthy and flavorful alternative right here in Cobb that’s available at Whole Foods. It’s creamy, it’s cold, it’s made with nutritious ingredients — and it’s downright delicious. A decade ago, you wouldn’t find Austell resident Ashiki Taylor inside a kitchen. But when a commitment to a healthier lifestyle meant he had to give up ice cream, one of his favorite desserts, he took matters into his own hands. “I used to be a McDonald’s and Häagen-Dazs person. I wouldn’t even go into the kitchen; I wouldn’t even make a peanut butter sandwich,” he said. But soon he found himself tinkering around with recipes, learning his way around mixing bowls and researching food online, all in the name of ice cream. He was determined to discover a healthier alternative that tasted like the real thing. But how? His solution was nutty. Almonds.
By Stacey L. Evans Photography by Sam Bennett Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(58) 59
59
6/2/2014 1:55:32 AM
Taylor’s creation is almond-based and uses only ‘real food’ ingredients. All six varieties are comprised of filtered water, raw almonds, raw cashews, organic agave nectar, raw vanilla bean and Himalayan crystal salt. There are no fillers or binders. He was so happy with his creation that he began making batches for family and friends. Their enthusiasm for the treat quickly matched his. He called it Ashiki’s all-natural ice cream, but the name didn’t quite fit. “This isn’t ice cream, this is ice supreme,” declared a friend after devouring several scoops. And so Ice Supreme was born. Eager to share his creation with others, Taylor took his frozen treat to Sevananda Natural Foods Market, a consumer-owned market in Atlanta. His success there prompted him to pitch his product to the pinnacle of health food grocery stores — Whole Foods. He left samples with the regional office. Two days later, he received a phone call. Whole Foods wanted to sell Ice Supreme in all the Atlanta-area stores. “I was on the ceiling,” Taylor said about his excitement. Now he spends about half his time in the kitchen, mixing up Ice Supreme at a facility in Marietta. Most weekends you can find him at various Whole Foods locations giving out samples.
60 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(60) 60
Taylor touts it as the world’s healthiest frozen dessert. “I challenge anybody when they are making a purchase decision if they look at any other frozen treat out there and do an apples to apples comparison, we are the healthiest,” he said. “Most frozen desserts, when you read the label, they have 10 or 15 ingredients. Why do you need that much? It’s like anything else, you get what you pay for. If you eat cheap food, it’s going to impact you. If you eat good, quality food, it’s going to help you.” The frozen treat is a great alternative for those who need a gluten-free or lactose-free diet, or just want to enjoy one of summer’s most iconic pleasures without the high amount of fat, sugar and additives. Because it’s essentially “frozen nuts” which are full of protein, Taylor says Ice Supreme is also makes a really great breakfast. “(Protein) helps kickstart the day.” But the most important factor is taste. Taylor is most proud that Ice Supreme passes the taste test among children, and is enjoyed by those who can’t eat traditional ice cream. “I’ve had people email me — my son or daughter has celiac disease and your product is the only thing they can eat (that tastes like ice cream). That’s the kind of stuff that makes me feel good about this,” he said. “When you can get kids to eat something healthy, that’s a good thing.”
Summer 2014
6/2/2014 1:46:47 AM
WHAT MAKES IT HEALTHY? While ice cream makes you feel happy while you eat it, soon afterwards you’re crashing from the sugar rush and feeling bloated from the dairy and saturated fat. Ice Supreme’s nuts actually give you an energy boost. The manganese, copper and riboflavin found in almonds contribute to energy production.
Think the fats in nuts will lead to weight gain? Nope. In fact, those who frequently eat nuts are less likely to gain weight than those who rarely eat nuts, according to results from two Harvard studies.
Almonds Almonds contain monosaturated fats (the same type found in olive oil), which helps lower LDL cholesterol. Studies have shown nut consumption is linked to a lower risk for heart disease.
Researchers estimated that substituting nuts for an equivalent amount of carbohydrate in an average diet resulted in a 30% reduction in heart disease risk. When fat from nuts was substituted for saturated fats (found primarily found in meat and dairy products), the risk reduction calculated was an even more impressive 45%.
Almonds are also a rich source of Vitamin E, magnesium and potassium.
ICE Supreme contains more calcium and protein than other non-dairy brands.
Cashews Like almonds, cashews have healthy fat and similar nutrients, including an even higher amount of copper.
ICE Supreme is dairy-free, gluten-free and soy-free and 100 percent vegan for those with restrictive diets.
THE FLAVORS Chocolate Nibs Coconut Supreme Pecan Passion Strawberry Bliss Vanilla Bean Greens Supreme (a unique flavor made from Collard greens, and yes, it’s delicious) BASIC INGREDIENTS Filtered water, raw almonds, raw cashews, organic agave nectar, raw vanilla bean, Himalayan crystal salt NO Cholesterol NO Trans Fat NO Gums NO GMOs
WHERE TO BUY ICE Supreme is at twelve Whole Foods stores, including Birmingham, Nashville, Detroit and all metro Atlanta locations. It’s also at Sevananda and Return to Eden in Atlanta. >>IN COBB, find it at Cobb Harry’s, 70 Powers Ferry Rd SE, Marietta and at the Merchants Walk Whole Foods location, 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd NE, Marietta
www.icesupreme.com
HOURS
Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 6pm • Sunday 12:30pm to 5:30pm Mondays by chance
770.426.9840
www.acornhomeandgarden.com 3870 Due West Road NW, Marietta 30064 Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(61) 61
61
6/3/2014 1:10:24 PM
Wings in Flight
888
By Michael Venezia Photography by Sam Bennett
In professional beverage tasting exercises, the word “flight” is used to describe a selection of wines, beers or spirits that will be experienced in a predetermined progression. It could be a flight of multiple vintages of the same wine, a flight of assorted wine varietals, or a flight of several different styles of beers or spirits. Usually pre-poured in 2 oz. portions, the goal is for the taster to learn more about the products at hand. On May 7, a small group of food and beverage professionals met at the Wing Café & Tap House to enjoy a flight of 12 of their signature wings accompanied by a selection of beer, wine and cider. Our stated goal was to try to reach a consensus as to what wing flavors were the most compatible with the flight of selected beverage products available at the Wing. Hosted by Captain Winger, aka J.K., the owner of this popular East Cobb destination, the invited guests were Chef Patrick Gebrayel, master charcutier, and partner in Heywood’s Provision Company, Matt Moore, a craft beer specialist, Lauren Pelfrey, an experienced hospitality professional, Sam Bennett, Cobb Life Magazine photographer, and yours truly.
CL_Summer2014(62) 62
6/3/2014 1:17:09 PM
Hard, hot work? Kind of. From left, Laurne Pelfrey of Smyrna, metro beer expert Matt Moore of Atlanta, and our wine writer Michael Venezia of East Cobb mark down and take mental note of which beer and wing combo works best. Opposite page: The beers were all poured into small glasses, commonly dubbed flights, before the tasting began. The beer being poured here is the New Holland Dragon’s Milk.
CL_Summer2014(62) 63
6/3/2014 1:17:47 PM
With 32 flavors available at The Wing we decided to select 12 and have them offered in two six wing flights of distinctly differed flavor profiles. We would then taste through the wing flight with the variety of beverage selections and try to agree on some perfect flights of fancy! Of course, ranch and blue cheese dip and celery sticks were served. The Hot and Spicy Wing Flight #1 Olympic Torch #4 Cowboy Killer #2 Raspberry Chipotle BBQ #5 Spicy Ninja #3 Gold Fever #6 Jamaican Each one of these wing flavors has a significant amount of heat and our tasting panel agreed that they were significantly more delicious with the craft and seasonal brews. The refreshing and cooling effervescence of the cold beer immediately reduced the palate assault of the fiery chilies. Craft Beer and Cider #1 Boulevard 80 Acre Hoppy Wheat #4 Terrapin Hi 5 IPA #2 Sierra Nevada Summerfest #5 New Holland Dragon’s Milk #3 Abita Restoration Ale #6 Crispin Cider
At West Cobb Funeral Home, we have been committed to serving the families of our community for the past 18 years. Recently, we have renovated and added a tranquil pavilion which adjoins our spacious family reception room. See why more families are choosing our home, our services and our facilities.
The Wine Flight # 1 Menage a Trios Moscato #4 Montevina Pinot Grigio #2 Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling #5 Mountain Door Malbec #3 Matua Sauvignon Blanc #6 The Show Cabernet Sauvignon After 30 minutes of tasting and discussion, the tasting panel offered the following sensory evaluation. With the hot and spicy wings the Sierra Nevada Summerfest, a light lager made in a pilsner style was the most compatable and the sweeter wines such as moscato and riesling were favorites as well. The crisp overtones of the apple cider was also appreciated. When the panel was pressed to declare their overall preferences the runner up was the Olympic Torch with the Boulevard 90 Acre Hoppy Wheat and the winner was Cowboy Killer with the Terrapin Hi 5 IPA. If you love wine I must note that it is hard not to appreciate the Jamaican, with its jerk rub of ginger, garlic paste and chili peppers with the Mountain Door Malbec from Argentina. The Subtle and Temperate Flight #1 Honey Mustard #4 Kentucky Bourbon #2 Sesame Ginger #5 Lemon Pepper #3 Garlic Parmesan #6 Teriyaki
64 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(64) 64
Summer 2014
6/2/2014 1:51:56 AM
In addition to Venezia, East Cobb’s Chef Patrick, left, and Wing Café and Tap Room owner JK Kenny took part.
After a 10 minute break we attacked the second wing flight of flavors which were absent of intense heat and more riveted to honey, mustard, ginger, bourbon, lemon pepper and Asian spices. The sweet and savory flavors were arguably more wine friendly and opened up many more options for wine lovers. A very popular combination and heavily lobbied by Chef Patrick was the Lemon Pepper with the Matua Sauvignon Blanc. Lauren enjoyed the Kentucky Bourbon with the New Holland Dragon’s Milk, a stout aged in Bourbon barrels. Matt endorsed the Sesame Ginger with the Abita Restoration Ale. My personal favorite was the Garlic Parmesan with the Montevina Pinot Grigio. After 120 Wings and two hours of tasting we finally awarded runner up in this flight to the Lemon Pepper with Sierra Summerfest and the Teriyaki with its Asian spice box flavors with the Abita Restoration Ale as the winner of this flight. This exercise only proved that your own palate will dictate what wing flavors match your beverage choices and that only by trial will you discover the perfect beverage to compliment the extraordinary selection of wings from The Wing Café and Tap Room. Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(65) 65
65
6/2/2014 1:37:42 AM
H
ighlights
A look at upcoming events and activites in Cobb this season
MORRISSEY>> Thirty-something years since taking the stage with seminal band The Smiths, Morrissey’s still going strong. On this fairly short (two month) national tour, St. Louis-born singer/keyboardist Kristeen Young is the support act on all dates except Los Angeles and New York: Tom Jones and Sir Cliff Richard will be appearing at those shows. When and where: June 4 at 8 p.m., Cobb Energy Centre, Atlanta. Tickets: $36 to $56, plus fees. Available at Cobb Energy Centre box office, Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets or by phone at 800.745.3000. More information: 770. 916.2808 Online: www. cobbenergycentre.com
RePLAY: SYMPHONY OF HEROES>> A full orchestra and chorus focus their talents on celebrating the music of the most popular video games. This symphony was developed by the team behind “Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses.” It’s an obvious successor to a previous concert - “Play! A Video Game Symphony.” When and where: June 13 at 7:30 p.m., Cobb Energy Centre, Atlanta. Tickets: $48 to $128, plus fees. Available at Cobb Energy Centre box office, Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets or by phone at 800.745.3000. More information: 770.916.2808 Online: www. cobbenergycentre.com
DIVA!>> Spirited musical revue celebrating the greatest modern female performers. Think Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Cher, Madonna and more. When and where: June 7, 15, 27 and July 5, 11, 25, 26 at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre, 117 North Park Square, Marietta. Tickets: $20. $15 for seniors, students and military. More information: 770. 293.0080 Online: www. earlsmithstrand.org.
TRASH DAY !>> A play. The Wolley family has lived for a long time in their decaying Smyrna home and have been marked for eviction repeatedly due to Grandpa’s proclivity to hoard, well, everything. Find out what happens amid the mountains of debris when the city gets serious about kicking them out. And what is the story with those new next door neighbors, anyway? Presented by Out Of Box Theatre.
CL_Summer2014(66) 66
6/3/2014 1:23:45 PM
When and where: June 13 to 28 at the Artisan Resource Center, 585 Cobb Pkwy. South, Marietta. Tickets: $17 to $25. Best prices on advance tickets. Group discounts available. More information: 678.653.4605 or info@outofboxtheatre.com Online: www.outofboxtheatre.com MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT>> The Atlanta Lyric Theatre brings to the stage King Arthur and his knights of the round table, flying cows, killer rabbits, sneering Frenchmen and more lunacy in this award-winning musical from the vivid imagination of Monty Python’s Eric Idle and John Du Prez. When and Where: June 13-29 at the Cobb Civic Center’s Jennie T. Anderson Theater, Marietta. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $32 to $52. Reserved seating. More information: 404.377.9948 Online: www.atlantalyrictheatre.com ELVIS COSTELLO - SOLO>> Costello has been playing about a month of solo dates in the United States every year, going region by region, mining his extensive songbook and making fine use of the material of other artists. It’s hard to say what he will play on any given night but his performances have been lauded by his longtime and newer fans alike and are getting rave reviews from music critics. When and where: June 19 at 8 p.m., Cobb Energy Centre, Atlanta. Tickets: $45- $80, plus fees. Available at Cobb Energy Centre box office, Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets or by phone at 800.745.3000. More information: 770. 916.2808 Online: www.cobbenergycentre.com HEART OF THE KING: TRIBUTE TO ELVIS>> The first Elvis and many would say the only Elvis, as channeled by tribute artist Shawn Klush. Klush, portraying the EP of the 1970s, took the top prize at the World Elvis Tribute Artist Competition and also
won The People’s Choice Award from Gibson Guitar in Nashville for “Best Concert Elvis.” He was named the “World’s Greatest Elvis” by 6.5 million international viewers on BBC1 Television in the United Kingdom and has sold out concerts in Australia and Canada. But wait there’s more: the show also features tribute artist Cody Ray Slaughter as the 1950s and 60s-era Elvis. When and where: June 21 at 8 p.m., Cobb Energy Centre, Atlanta. Tickets: $45 to $55, plus fees. Available at Cobb Energy Centre box office, Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets or by phone at 800.745.3000. More information: 770. 916.2808 Online: www.cobbenergycentre.com LARKIN POE>> A concert by two Georgia-born sisters playing Americana music. They are launching their full-length debut album this summer. Rebecca & Megan Lovell are from Atlanta, previously played as The Lovell Sisters on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion and are getting ready for yet another world tour. When and where: June 21 at 8 p.m. Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre, Mableton. Tickets: FREE event. Table sales available. Online:www.mablehouse.org/amphitheatre.html LEGO KIDFEST>> Everyone loves Legos…until you step on one in your bare feet. However, no worries about that here. This giant, hands-on Lego extravaganza takes place on over three acres and is part exhibit, part educational outing, part art gallery and all ages, cross-generational fun. When and where: June 27 – 29, Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta. Days are broken up into four and a half hour “sessions,” all sessions offer the same exhibits and activities. Tickets: $22 for adults, $20 children and seniors, FREE for ages 2 and under. More information: 860.953.4500, ext. 144 mdiluzio@LEGOkidsfest.com Online: www.LEGOkidsfest.com
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(67) 67
67
6/2/2014 1:38:44 AM
SCENE
WellStar Gala
The WellStar Foundation Grand Gala took place in this spring at the Cobb Galleria. 1. Jony DaRin and Thomas Holmes. 2. Merdean Bone, chairperson of the gala silent auction, with husband Steve. 3. From left, Nancy Hall, James Hammons and Dan and Sarah Styf. 4. Wade and Ashley Purcell with Steve Johnson.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF STANTON
1
2
3
4 68 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(68) 68
Summer 2014
6/3/2014 1:21:41 PM
WellStar Gala
SCENE
5. Kim Gresh with Mark and Rhonda Jackson. 6. Ben and Christine Phelps with Tony and Pam Britton. Tony chairs the WellStar Foundation. 7. Dianne and Gene Weeks. 8. Richard and Sharon Wootrich with Scott and Emily Wootrich.
5
6
7
8 Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(69) 69
69
6/3/2014 1:24:44 PM
SCENE
PT Solutions golf fundraiser
The Foundation of Emory-Adventist Hospital at Smyrna’s 22nd Annual Golf Tournament took place in May at the Brookstone Country Club in Acworth. It was sponsored by PT Solutions. 1. From left, Skyler Quackenbush of Buckhead, Jon Hyman of Atlanta and Richard Jarrell of Smyrna. 2. From left, Maurice Barnes of Roswell, Casey Leno of Smyrna, Ben Valena of Decatur and Karen Hill of Atlanta. 3. From left, Kurt Allen and Kevin Kossick, both of Calhoun. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM BENNETT
2
1
70
3
Cobb Life Summer 2014
CL_Summer2014(70) 70
6/2/2014 1:13:10 AM
PT Solutions golf fundraiser
SCENE
5
4 4. From left, Rob Hayes Hooltawah, of Tennessee, Richard Evins of Woodstock, Jim McAlvin of Mableton and Ken Scarboro of Braselton. 5. From left, Kim Indergaard of Kenessaw and Linda Perryman of Austell. 6. From left, Jamie Luce of Buckhead and her brother, Jeff Luce of Roswell.
6
Summer 2014 Cobb Life
CL_Summer2014(71) 71
71
6/2/2014 1:36:09 AM
SCENE
Vinings Bank Spring BBQ
Vinnigs Bank recently held its annual spring barbecue at its major location at 4135 S. Atlanta Road. 1. From left, From left, Calvin Crawford of Smyrna, Sean Pitts of Canton and George Hodges of east Cobb. 2. From left, Joe Daniell, of West Cobb, Patrick Burns of East Cobb and Mitch Nimey of Mableton. 3. Diane Adams of West Cobb and Karrie Boyd of West Cobb. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM BENNETT
1
2
3
CL_Summer2014(72) 72
6/3/2014 1:30:13 PM
CL_Summer2014(73) 73
6/2/2014 1:29:01 AM
J’EAT YET
BY LINDSAY FIELD
Can he be 3 forever? One of the best things about my 3-year-old son Jack—aside from him being ridiculously cute and yes, I know I’m biased—is the amazing stuff that he has conversations with me about or the observations he makes. I remember people telling me how toddlers are a handful, how their moods are all over the place and that having a boy would keep me busy, but not a single person ever said that I’d get so much entertainment out of his oneliners. I mean, if the kid doesn’t make it as a professional baseball, soccer or football player (mama and daddy can always dream), there’s always a chance he could be a stand-up comedian. The timing of what he says or when he says it is also quite stunning, and sometimes horrifying. It never fails that he asks the most embarrassing questions when they can hear him. Most recently, he asked his pediatrician why she had yellow teeth. She very politely told Jack that she was older and that she had always had bad teeth, but I was horrified! Jack has also started noticing when people have larger bottoms than others. I’m not quite sure why he is observing this (let’s just blame it on school), but he now quite fondly tells me that people have “a lot of hiney in their booties.” I’ll just let you ponder on that one! Here are a few of our other conversations over the last few months: Me: “Jack, you have to wear your floaties in the pool. You haven’t learned how to swim yet.” Jack: “But I’m awesome. I should be able to swim.” (Let’s just call this his Spider-Man complex) (While driving thru downtown Atlanta) Jack: “Look Mommy, there’s a man on top of the Gold Dome.” Me: “Hmm ... I wonder who that is?” Jack: “It’s Jesus. It’s gotta be Jesus!”
Steakhouse before supper) Jack: “Why are we eating deer for dinner?” Me: “That’s a cow with horns. It’s called a longhorn.” Jack: “I don’t want to eat horns either!” Me: “How was school?” Jack: “I told my teachers today that you were getting married.” Me: “And what did they say?” Jack: “They said not to be afraid. There’s no reason to be afraid.” Jack: “You used to teach?” Honey (my mother, who taught kindergarten for 35 years): “Yes, but I stopped because it was too hard for me to get up and down when I played with the children.” Jack: “Were you too fluffy?” (I explained to Jack once that it’s impolite to call people fat, so he came up with the term fluffy.) In keeping this column ALL about my son, I thought I’d share a simple, but yummy, chicken wing recipe that we recently learned Jack loves. Thanks Uncle Shawn for sharing!
Ingredients: 3-5 pounds of chicken wings, skin on 1 stick unsalted butter 1 small bottle hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is recommended) Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper the chicken wings generously and grill. On the stovetop, bring the hot sauce and butter to a boil. Reduce to low heat. Immediately after taking the wings off the grill, toss them in the hot sauce/butter mixture and serve with LOTS of napkins. Enjoy!
(After seeing the sign outside Longhorn
CL_Summer2014(74) 74
6/2/2014 1:30:10 AM
CL_Summer2014(75) 75
6/3/2014 1:34:56 PM
CL_Summer2014(76) 76
6/2/2014 1:09:14 AM
COBB LIFE
SUMMER 2014
Volume 11, Issue 6
6/3/2014 1:41:11 PM
CL_Summer2014(1) 1