Cobb Life Magazine, January 2012

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Cobb Life

January/February 2012 Volume 8, Issue 1 EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Otis A. Brumby, Jr. EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Otis Brumby III V.P. ADVERTISING Wade Stephens

Hearing Evaluations • Hearing Aids Hearing Aid Repair • Assistive Listening Devices Batteries & More!

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jay Whorton E D I T O R I A L S TA F F DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES

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Mark Wallace Maguire LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Stacey L. Evans, Mark Wallace Maguire CONTRIBUTORS

DR. LAURIE NELSON Audiologist

Allen Bell, Joan Durbin, Stacey L. Evans, Michael Pallerino Meredith Pruden, Heather Teilhet, Michael Venezia PHOTOGRAPHER

Reid Traylor 990 Whitlock Avenue, Suite D • Marietta, GA 30064 Under Whitlock’s Restaurant 770-427-3033 www.MariettaHearing.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Joshua Campbell, Nathan Self PROOFREADERS

Caroline Brannen, Beth Poirier, Jennifer Hall A D V E R T I S I N G S TA F F

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Acworth Art Fest Atlanta Kubota Atlanta Lyric Theatre Austell Gas BBQ Grill Dr Beltone Big Liquor & Wine Blackwells Jewelers Carpet Dry Tech Center Academy Center For Allergy & Asthma Cobb Hardware CobbDailyDeals.com Cochran Shutters Compassionate Care Ministries Conyngham & Wernz - Harry Norman Cumberland Diamond Exchange Due West Chiropractic Emory Adventist Hospital Expert CarMedics Fabric & Fringe Fireplace Company First Cherokee State Bank Fresh N Fit Gaines Park Assisted Living Home Gas South Broadway Series - Blast Georgia Memorial Park Harry Norman Johnson Ferry Baptist Kennesaw Dental KSU Continuing ED Laurel Park Tennis Center LGE Credit Union Life Grocery Marietta FUMC Weekday Ministry Marietta Funeral Home Marietta Hearing

68 57 68 50 77 30 64 32 72 60 3 69 75 12 39 27 25 71 47 26 76 60 53 31 78 67 12 16 38 16 14 37 41 77 11 65 4

Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art 81 Mayes Ward - Dobbins Funeral Home 83 Mt. Bethel Christian 15 New Life Chiropractic 61 New Times Culture - Shen Yun 79 Northside Hospital 9 Northside Hospital Sleep Center 51 Oscar Night - CFR 20 & 73 Parc @ Piedmont 10 Pinnacle Orthopaedics 5 Plastic Surgery Center of the South 24 R & D Mechanical 27 Resurgens 45 Roswell Street Baptist 52 Sawyer Baily Salon 26 Signature Salon 40 Spot On Consulting 72 Sue Hilton 80 Summer Neurology 38 Sundial Plumbing 44 Superior Plumbing 2, 39, 52, & 64 The Bottoms Group 7 The Framery 37 The Georgia Ballet 74 The Henssler Financial Group 19 Trust Mark Gold 75 U.S. Window 31 United Community Bank 17 Wells Fargo Advisors - Chris Busby 11 WellStar 84 WellStar Atherton Place 56 WellStar Health Place 13 West Cobb Funeral Home 33 West Georgia Crematory 40 White Rabbit 36 Winnwood Retirement 46

COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER

Becky Opitz ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Reneé Aghajanian, Stephanie deJarnette, Carole Johnson, Dawne Edge, Paula Milton, Cheryl Myrick, Tamara Heil, Melinda Young, Candace Hallford, Tara Guest GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Caroline Brannen, Beth Poirier, Jennifer Hall PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Leigh Hall CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Matt Heck I N F O R M AT I O N

Cobb Life magazine is published nine times a year by The Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 33,500 homes and businesses.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

To request a copy or to subscribe, visit our website at www.cobblifemagazine.com ADVERTISING

To advertise, contact Wade Stephens at 770.795.4001 SUBMISSIONS

Please send all editorial correspondence to mmaguire@cobblifemagazine.com Follow us on facebook

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W H AT ’ S I N S I D E 54

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features 21 OUR ANNUAL BEST OF SECTION Your votes, your winners, your guide to the best of Cobb 54 SOUTHERN SAUCE Georgia farmers starting new trend of producing homegrown olive oil 58 WORLD PREMIERE The Atlanta Ballet’s collaboration with Twyla Tharp is history in the making

o n

t h e

departments 18 SPICE Doughnuts take a dip in hot chocolate 62 WINE On the wine road

in every issue FROM THE DIRECTOR 08 NEWS & NOTEWORTHY 10 ON THE WEB 16 HIGHLIGHTS 66 EDITORIAL CALENDAR 69 SCENE 70 SLICE OF COBB 82

c o v e r

Did you forget to vote for your best of in Cobb? You can still tell us who’s No. 1 in your book by posting on our Facebook page or writing a blog at www.cobblifemagazine.com

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FROM THE DIRECTOR

BEST OF COBB - staff picks elcome to another of our annual Best Of issues.This is always a favorite of ours to produce as we have the opportunity to publish what you – the readers –vote for the best of in Cobb County.

Each year I share my personal best of which provides me a chance to tell you about the gems I find in this community.

The best restaurant for me is still the Marietta Diner.

I've mentioned this restaurant before, but nothing quite beats the food, service and the portions at this iconic Cobb dining spot.

Last year I wrote about best steamed spinach. This year, I've got a recommendation for best vegetable soup. I heartily recommend Johnboys on Canton Highway. Cobb Life Associate Publisher Jay Whorton and I go out for lunch every month or so. Our goal? To find the best Southern and country cooking in the county. We've been to several restaurants the past couple of years, but this year Johnboys is at the top of the list, especially their vegetable soup they dish up only on Tuesday.

And the best place to watch a concert? Once again, it is the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. In 2011 a few friends and I went to go see Wilco perform. The sound, setting, and overall experience are still unparalleled. While those are a few of mine, I also wanted to share some of our staff picks.

Cobb Life graphic designer and writer Stacey L. Evans said the best soup in Cobb is Farmer's Market Bisque at Vineyard Café on the Marietta Square. In her words, “The subtle flavors in this creamy dish blend perfectly. It's a soothing, sumptuous soup.”

She also chose The Lunch Basket in Marietta as best veggie sandwich around. “Packed with the usual lettuce, tomato and cheese, what makes this sandwich stand out is the sprouts and sweet carrot raisin salad added to it. Plus, there is a variety of bread options to choose from, including a croissant or spinach wrap, which are my favorites.

Lunch Basket also has great sweet tea and the staff there is always friendly.”

Her favorite place to relax and enjoy coffee or tea?

Land of a Thousand Hills coffee shop, located inside The Walton on the Chattahoochee apartment complex.

Our arts and adventure contributor Allen Bell named Laseter's Tavern the best place to eat and enjoy a drink

W

before a concert at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. For those not in the know, Laseter's is about a mile south of the centre on Highway 41. Bell also said the Australian Bakery and Cafe is the best place, “to hear bluegrass on a Tuesday night on the Marietta Square while noshing on chicken curry pot pie, French onion soup and Vitamin Water.” He dubbed Cumberland Boulevard as the best place to spot zombies, alluding to the science fiction filming that occurred there last summer.

Food writer Joan Durbin named Penang off George Busbee Parkway, Kennesaw as her favorite international food. As she wrote, “Once I tasted the rich panoply of spices, chilis and exotic ingredients in Penang's Malaysian dishes, I couldn't go back to everyday, run-of-the-mill Chinese and Thai.”

If you are a home cook, she recommends paying a visit to East Cobb's Cook's Warehouse.

“The culinary classes offered at this newest location of the local retail chain are chock full of advice, demos and hands-on food preparation. You'll leave with plenty of kitchen know-how and enthusiasm.”

Our staff photographer Reid Traylor, who will proudly admit he is an auto nut, said Forged Performance is the best automotive shop in Cobb and gave a thumbs-up to the best drive along Bill Murdock and Casteel roads in East Cobb.

Fashion contributor and versatile writer Meredith Pruden named Laredo's as her favorite restaurant: “Not your average Mexican joint and an almost gourmet twist on alternatives. Also, great margaritas!” Dyer & Posta got her nod as Cobb's top hair salon. In her words, “a little slice of New York tucked away in Kennesaw (without all the attitude to boot).”

For favorite shopping she mentioned Blackwell's Jewelers and Livi Rae Lingerie. She named Winston's as her favorite pub, Famous Nails as her favorite nail salon and Paper Mill Park as her favorite place to get away.

Do you have a favorite Best Of Cobb? We're always looking for new ideas from our readers. Shoot us a line at mmaguire@cobblifemagazine.com and have a great year getting out and exploring your community.

Best,

Mark Wallace Maguire

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news & noteworthy [what we love] Smucker’s fruit preserves on grilled cheese Smucker’s sents us a couple of cans of their Smucker’s Orchard’s Finest fruit preserves.

We gave them a shot on toast as well as sandwiches. Our verdict?

Yummy!

The preserves feature just four ingredients and are sweetened with only natural sugar.

Pictured here is one of our favorite recipes they recommended: Cinnamon Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.

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[food]

Cobb restaurants get serious ink in new book If you are a regular reader of this magazine, you have no doubt that Cobb’s culinary offerings are not lacking. However, if you need any confirmation or just want an additional resource to find Cobb’s finest restaurants, check out “Food Lovers Guide to Atlanta,” a new book chronicling great restaurants in the region. Written by Malika Harricharan, a noted food author, the book was released in late November and is available at local bookstores and on www.amazon.com.

The book features short descriptions about restaurants in the metro Atlanta area and includes special features at different restaurants on certain nights, a section of Atlanta chefs that have appeared on “Top Chef” and even recipes from popular Atlanta resturants.

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[design]

Experts: Orange is the hot color for 2012

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Paula Kirchhofer - Sales Manager

COBB LIFE

The world doesn't need more gray, and the blues are covered, too. What consumer products need is a jolt, a shot of energy and boldness, all of which comes from Tangerine Tango, the reddish-orange hue that Pantone announced as its top color for 2012.

"There's the element of encouragement with orange, it's building on the ideas of courage and action, that we want to move on to better things. I think it would be a disservice to go with a relaxed, soothing color now," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, the research division of Pantone Inc., which creates color standards for the fashion, beauty and home industries.

The annual forecast for the next year's dominant color takes into consideration both what Pantone thinks shoppers want and need. Those are influenced by the designer runways, fabric shows, news events, pop culture and consumer habits. "Part of what we do is look at the zeitgeist," Eiseman explained. "We have to look at everything in the world around us. It's not an arbitrary choice."

Consumer spending is a big player in reviving the economy and it needs adrenaline, she said. Orange is a more urgent call to action than last year's hot-pink hue Honeysuckle, which was also supposed to channel cheerfulness coupled with nostalgia. Before that, there was the more serene turquoise and optimistic yellow.

"Color is really emotion," agreed Beth Eckerstrom, director of trend and product development at Crate and Barrel. "Everyone thinks it's a physical thing, but it's really emotion."

For his spring collection, Tommy Hilfiger used the tangerine color coupled with red, although it also complements navy and brown. He imagines men wearing the orange in a striped or paisley tie, or for women, as a color for a purse or even a trenchcoat.

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[food] New bagel shop coming to Cobb Bruegger's Bagels will open its first location in metro Atlanta at 6370 Powers Ferry Road.

Corporate spokesperson Tracy Aiello said the fast casual chain hopes to open there by early 2012. The location will be operated by a franchisee, who hopes to open other locations in the area.

“Every bakery bakes New York-style bagels on site, so customers can have warm, fresh bagels all day. The bakeries also have a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options,” Aiello said.

Bruegger's operates nearly 300 Bruegger’s bakeries in North America. Its parent company, Groupe Le Duff, SA, is the world’s second largest company in the café-bakery sector and also owns La Madeleine.

Smashburger comes to Kennesaw The newest Smashburger location opened last month in Kennesaw at 440 Ernest W. Barrett Parkway.

This is the fourth of 20 plus Atlanta-area Smashburgers that local franchisee Phil Wilkins is slated to open over the next seven years.

Atlanta-area Smashburgers feature a regional menu specifically created with Southern flavors and tastes in mind.

Among the items Kennesaw guests can enjoy are the signature Atlanta Smashburger, which features 100 percent Certified Angus Beef, peach BBQ sauce, Wicked Pimena cheese, grilled jalapeños and Vidalia coleslaw on an egg bun, and the Atlanta Smashdog, topped with Wicked Pimena cheese, grilled Smashburger franchise owner Phil Wilkins jalapeños and Vidalia coleslaw.

with Kennesaw Mayor Mark Mathews.

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[design]

Tips on decorating with purple Home furnishing catalogs and dĂŠcor magazines tell us that purple is all the rage, and top designers have been filling clients' homes with everything from purple wallpaper and furniture to purple lampshades and throw pillows.

It can be a tough sell, says Betsy Burnham, founder of Burnham Design in Los Angeles, who has used purple frequently this year. Clients sometimes blanch when they hear "purple," envisioning garish, overpowering hues, she says.

It is true that purple has to be used wisely. "Too much purple can seem Austin Powers-ish or way too juvenile," says Brian Patrick Flynn, founder of decordemon.com.

So how can you choose the right shades of purple and use them well?

Burnham, Flynn and Sandra Espinet (who decorated actress Alison Sweeney's home entirely in purple for an HGTV's "Celebrity Holiday Homes" special this month) offer their ideas and advice: No need to invest much if you're not sure whether purple is for you. Buy several purple candles for your dining room or a purple throw blanket to drape over your sofa.

Espinet suggests bringing in some purple items like these during the holiday season, and then keeping them around after holiday decorations have been put away.

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COBB LIFE

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[health] An apple a day can make that waist sway It's true — apple juice can pose a risk to your health. But not necessarily from the trace amounts of arsenic that people are arguing about. Despite the government's consideration of new limits on arsenic, nutrition experts say apple juice's real danger is to waistlines and children's teeth. Apple juice has few natural nutrients, lots of calories and, in some cases, more sugar than soda has. It trains a child to like very sweet things, displaces better beverages and foods, and adds to the obesity problem, its critics say.

Many juices are fortified with vitamins, so they're not just empty calories. But that doesn't appease some nutritionists.

"If it wasn't healthy in the first place, adding vitamins doesn't make it into a health food," and if it causes weight gain, it's not a healthy choice, said Karen Ansel, a registered dietitian in New York and spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says juice can be part of a healthy diet, but its policy is blunt: "Fruit juice offers no nutritional benefit for infants younger than 6 months" and no benefits over whole fruit for older kids.

Kids under 12 consume 28 percent of all juice and juice drinks, according to the academy. Nationwide, apple juice is second only to orange juice in popularity. Americans slurp 267 ounces of apple juice on

average each year, according to the Food Institute's Almanac of Juice Products and the Juice Products Association, a trade group. Lots more is consumed as an ingredient in juice drinks and various foods. If you or your family drinks juice, here is some advice from nutrition experts: -Choose a juice fortified with calcium and vitamin D-3.

-Give children only pasteurized juice — that's the only type safe from germs that can cause serious disease.

-Don't give juice before 6 months of age, and never put it in bottles or covered cups that allow babies and children to consume it throughout the day, which can cause tooth decay. For the same reason, don't give infants juice at bedtime.

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on the web Click and catch up

K E N N E S A W

COSMETIC, RESTORATION & PREVENTATIVE CARE

DAVID MOLINA, DDS

You never know what’s happening with us on the web. Whether it is our home website, www.cobblifemagazine.com, our facebook page or Twitter, we’re always bringing exclusive content to, from and by Cobb County residents.

We’ve got contests, behind-the-scene photos, videos, blogs and much more.

Our hottest Facebook discussion last month?

Favorite or least favorite Christmas songs. Here are a few of the comments:

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Cobb Life Magazine Food writer Joan Durbin is a dyedin-the-wool traditionalist, opting for anything by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Celtic or music box carols and Nat King Cole. Jazz versions of holiday standards also rate high. On the flip side, Lord preserve me from novelty tunes like "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer."

Theresa Wallace Fednander Nat King Cole's "Chestnuts Roasting In An Open Fire"...don't think that is the official name of the song, but should be!

Adam Miller Right now I'd say it's any of those from Sufjan Stevens' Christmas. Certainly subject to change. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UGaDcQcFKk Brian Clark My favorite is "Mary Did You Know?"

Everyone Can Play Piano Love Them All/ All Year Long!!!!!

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COBB LIFE

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winter warm up

BY J.M. HIRSCH

with a guilty pleasure

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There is a crazy delicious new trend in milkshakes. It involves adding a slice of pie to the blender along with the milk and ice cream.

That's right — a whole slice of pie.

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CHOCOLATE DOUGHNUT HOT CHOCOLATE Start to finish: 10 minutes Servings: 4 2 cups whole milk 1 glazed or sugar coated chocolate doughnut 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips Pinch salt In a blender, combine the milk and doughnut. Puree until very

smooth. This could take a minute or longer.

Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan. Whisking constantly, heat over medium until it thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the chocolate chips and salt, whisking until the chocolate has melted and the cocoa is smooth. Serve immediately.

Which sounds simply too delicious for its own good. I wanted it, except that the winter isn't exactly milkshake season. So I started playing winter-friendly ways to borrow this idea of blending baked goods and sweet drinks.

Hot chocolate was the natural choice. But pie just didn't seem right. Doughnuts, however, seemed perfect. Chocolate doughnuts to be precise.

The process was simple. The results were spectacular. The hot chocolate was richly chocolaty, but retained a distinctly doughnut flavor. The hot chocolate also was wonderfully thick, thanks to the thickening properties of the flour in the doughnut. If you prefer a thinner hot chocolate, follow the recipe as directed, then thin with additional milk at the end.

It also is important to use a cake-style doughnut (not yeastraised), such as a chocolate or old fashioned. I used glazed or sugarcoated doughnuts with great results.

And for a wonderful variation, make the recipe as directed, then thin it with a bit of strong hot coffee. After all, coffee and doughnuts pair so well.

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compiled by allen bell, joan durbin, stacey l. evans, mark wallace maguire, adam miller, michael pallerino and meredith pruden photography by reid traylor

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aspens continues to steak its claim as the tops in fine dining Discerning diners have told us that Aspens is the place they go in Cobb County when they want a fine dining experience. That should come as no surprise, since the venerable white-tablecloth steak house has been winning acclaim from our readers for many years.

While Aspens is famous for its steaks, hand cut in house and expertly grilled, there is much more here to like. New executive chefs at both locations are bringing a more contemporary feel to the menu, with some new dishes and techniques that are very welcome without sacrificing the old school items so beloved by Aspens’ devoted following.

Poke tuna, a spicy treatment of a Hawaiian staple made with ahi tuna, ginger, lime vinaigrette marinade and a hint of sriracha, is the creation of Aspens East Chef Sean Clark. It has taken a place on the appetizer menu, as has a delectable beef carpaccio with housemade pickled horseradish and preserved lemon.

Main plates are sporting some new sides, such as corn pudding and arugula napped with honey fig vinaigrette and shaved pecorino cheese accompanying the grilled island-spiced chicken breast, as well as some absolutely fantastic honey-seared Brussels sprouts with diced pancetta, shallot and white wine that are paired with a succulent braised short rib.

Making an appearance on the bar menu will be homemade sausages like one made with duck, pancetta and other charcuterie specialties.

Of course a fine dining experience wouldn’t be complete without a vast selection of spirits to choose from. Aspens offers a vast variety of premium wines, by both the glass and the bottle, beers, top-shelf liquors and tasty cocktails.

by joan durbin

Erik Ehlers, general manager, pours a glass of red wine to complement a bone-in steak, right.

FINE DINING Aspens Signature Steaks 2942 Shallowford Road, Marietta 678.236.1400 3625 Dallas Highway, Marietta 770.419.1744 www.knowwheretogogh.com

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Owners Rhonda and Mark Jacobson with general manager Prentice Johsnon.

JEWELRY

Cumberland Diamond Exchange has been a staple in the Smyrna/ Vinings community for 30 years. The family-owned business is known for its quality jewelry, as well as the quality service its knowledgeable employees provide customers. Instead

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serving families,” said co-owner Rhonda Jacobson. “Mark and his bother Wayne began the business in 1982 as a family business.

Before Mark ask me to marry him, he stated his parents worked together and he would like his wife to work with him. Of course, I said yes if you match my salary and benefits! We hired family-oriented staff members who enjoyed practicing hospitality on a daily basis.

We have two team members who have been with CDE for 22 years.

Our general manager, Prentice Johnson, and his wife Leah are another layer of promoting family within the core structure of Cumberland Diamond Exchange.”

That sense of service and community goes beyond the store’s doors. The company frequently donates items for charity auctions, including creating an “STV” Stop the Violence jewelry line to help the YWCA raise money and awareness for their cause.

With an extensive selection of jewelry, from silver hoops less than $20 to high-end and one-of-akind estate pieces, Cumberland Diamond Exchange is the premier retailer for residents looking for a special gift or a unique piece to add to their own collection.

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Since its official re-opening in December 2008, the Earl Smith Strand Theatre has soared in popularity with theatre-goers not only in Cobb, but throughout the metro area.

While the facility itself is first-rate and the leadership by Earl Reece outstanding, another part of it being voted “Best place to watch a play in Cobb” can be chalked up to its resident theater company — Atlanta Lyric Theatre.

Since the Atlanta Lyric Theatre officially named The Strand as its residence a few years ago, the facility has continued to lure new residents and interest to the area.

PLACE TO WATCH A PLAY The Earl Smith Strand Theatre 117 North Park Square Marietta, GA 30060 770.293.0080 www.earlsmithstrand.org

DESSERT Gabriel’s 800 Whitlock Avenue Marietta 770.427.9007 www.gabrielsdesserts.com A repeat winner, Gabriel’s has won again in our Best Dessert category. The bakery had won previously, including in 2009 when it appeared on our cover, above.

Johnnie Gabriel, known as “Marietta’s Cake Lady,” and Ed Gabriel opened the restaurant in 1996. They started with a small bakery which has since quadrupled in size and evolved into a full-service restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts six days a week.

Although Johnnie is busy with book signings, cooking demonstrations and television appearances, she is still seen at Gabriel’s most days mingling with guests, signing customers’ cookbooks, and overseeing the amazing production of wedding and birthday cakes, cupcakes, pastries and daily menu items.

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Buyer Cindy Davidson with one of the store’s statues.

COBB LIFE

Well, just head north on Dallas Highway to Lost Mountain Nursery. Known as much for its expertise and customer service as its unique selection of gifts, accessories and plants, Lost Mountain Nursery has been a local favorite for 27 years.

Owner Teena Barnes, who has a horticulture degree from University of Georgia and ran a high end Buckhead nursery and garden center before opening Lost Mountain Nursery, said everyday is like Christmas for her as her buyers bring in new and exciting garden accessories, including handmade paintings, benches, birdbaths, birdfeeders, ceramics, topiaries and more.

Buyer Cindy Davidson said she always tries to buy things she would personally want in her garden. “I always try to think where and how I would use something,” Davidson said. “We also like things that are natural, so I’m always looking for things that will fit into people’s outdoor areas and give them a little zip.”

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BBQ Williamson Bros.

1425 Roswell Road Marietta 770.971.3201 www.williamsonbros.com

CONYNGHAM

WERNZ

Michelle Jehlen with Larry Willliamson.

Li st

in g!

REALTOR®, ARS, REBAC, SFR (678) 462-4299 Cell Joanna.Conyngham@HarryNorman.com

Fe at ur ed

Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q has come a long way since their humble beginnings in 1990. Starting with a single restaurant in Marietta built on their life savings, brothers Danny and Larry Williamson have since expanded with restaurants in Canton and Douglasville, adding a bottling division where they make and distribute their signature brand of barbecue sauce.

The founding proprietors chose the original Marietta location after searching numerous cities in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia for the ideal place to call home. The brothers selected an abandoned restaurant building on Roswell Road as the place to realize their lifelong dream.

Using a wood-fired pit, Williamson Bros. slow cooks their barbecue for hours, including ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and beef. Their sauce is an old family recipe that relies on fresh, all-natural ingredients.

“It is a vinegar-based sauce that is not too sweet and is somewhat thinner than most BBQ sauces out on the market,” said Leslie Sneed, with the restaurant’s sauce division. “It is made right here locally in Marietta and cooked in small batches to ensure the best quality and freshness.”

In addition to barbecue, Williamson Bros. is known for a cornucopia of sides on offer, including classic dishes such as coleslaw, baked beans, and mashed potatoes and gravy.

Williamson Bros. also has one of the largest catering facilities in the Atlanta area, where they base their regional operations which can handle anywhere from 25 to 25,000 guests, including the option to order a whole hog fully cooked and decorated.

REALTOR®, SFR (678) 641-8101 Cell Carson.Wernz@HarryNorman.com

1801 Villa Rica Road Powder Springs Listed for $850,000 Absolutely the most beautiful 25 acre parcel of land in West Cobb! Land features a large 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath house, fenced pasture and barn/stable.

Land would also be perfect for a family compound. Located close to East-West Connector and Dallas Highway. Call agents for more detail!

Call us today for a free Home Market Analysis!

HARRY NORMAN REALTORS 770-422-6005

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NEW THING ABOUT COBB The Historic Marietta Trolley Co. 131 Church St. NE Marietta 30060 770.425.1006 www.mariettatrolley.com

Brian and Cassandra Buckalew are eyeing expansion this year.

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They call it Uncle Ruban, in honor of the first streetcar to make the run between the cities of Marietta and Atlanta. To ride Uncle Ruban is to embark on an up-close and personal tour of the sights, sounds and stories relating to some of Cobb County’s most historic areas. The Historic Marietta Trolley Company’s rolling guide of history includes a trip through the Marietta Square, the Confederate, National and City cemeteries, Kennesaw National Battlefield, the Kennesaw House, and select grand antebellum homes and tree-lined city streets.

“Even locals who thought they knew everything about our city have found they learn something,” says Cassandra Buckalew, who started the company with her husband, Brian, in 2008. “It’s not just a history lesson, but a great way to tour the area and learn how Marietta was first established.”

So, what’s next? Cassandra says they are launching the Peachtree Trolley Company, which will begin touring some of downtown Atlanta’s best sites in late May. The tours will be held on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays beginning at Centennial Olympic Park. Charter service will be provided within a 100-mile radius of Marietta.

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PLACE TO CELEBRATE Marlow’s Tavern 1311 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta 770.977.7747 745 Chastain Road, Kennesaw 770.425.8777 2355 Cumberland Parkway Vinings 770.432.2526 www.marlowstavern.com

Got a birthday or another happy occasion coming up?

Or maybe something good happened in your life, like a new job or your office exceeded its quota for the quarter.

If so, our readers say there is no better place than Marlow’s to celebrate.

The space and atmosphere are ideal for a small get-together or a full-on celebration. The communal, high-top tables can seat up to eight and make it easy for the whole crowd to share appetizers and chat without having to shout or reach across the table.

Marlow’s has a welcoming and open feel to it. Conviviality and staff’s accommodating attitude make it comfortable and fun.

“Everything about Marlow’s is about the neighborhood, and if you’re going to celebrate a special event or special time in your life, the place you want to go is your neighborhood spot, where smiles and handshakes matter,” said marketing partner Hank Clark, who calls himself a “hospitality evangelist.”

“If their visit feels personal for the guests, we’re doing something right.”

Above, Hank Clark, a self-proclaimed ‘hospitality evangelist’ celebrates the vibe of the pub. Opposite page: From left, Aimee Erbacher of Marietta, Carmen Bowen of East Cobb, Ryan Squires of Roswell and Suong Nguyen of Atlanta enjoy an evening out.

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COBB LIFE Januar y/Febr uar y

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April Sawyer Bailey gets creative in the salon.

SALON Sawyer Bailey

800 Whitlock Ave., Suite 125 Marietta 30064 678.809.4224 www.sawyerbaileysalon.com

Sawyer Bailey Salon in West Cobb has been open in its current location for a year and a half but its owner, April Sawyer-Bailey has been a hair stylist for 19 years and is a third generation hairstylist. In fact, her mother and grandmother, who moved to Marietta Square to open a salon in 1948, still practice in Cobb County as well.

Located near the Square, Sawyer Bailey Salon is known for its coloring and highlighting but also specializes in special events and updos.

“I just love being creative and creating styles for every individual whether they’re male or female,” Sawyer Bailey said. “I like being able to change the way a person feels inside and out because when your hair looks great, you’re able to walk with confidence.” Sawyer Bailey is a wellrespected platform artist and has traveled all over the United States to teach other stylists about the latest styles and trends.

FESTIVAL Taste of Marietta www.tasteofmarietta.com

2265 Roswell Road Marietta, Ga. 30062

770-973-7881 www.blackwellsjewelers.com 32

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It grows and grows and grows and grows.

Yes, the Taste of Marietta.

Thousands of residents come each year to the Square to attend the event which includes, among other things, over 75 restaurants, family-friendly activites and more. Plus, while you have to pay to get a sample of food, admittance to the event is free. Dishes range from 50 cents to $4.

Plus, it is good for the community. Last year, festival organizers estimated the economic impact at $1.3 million.

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What began as a hobby has turned into a full-blown passion for

M a r i e t t a a r t i s t Fr a n k B u c k n e r , who endeavors to help ignite an interest in art among Cobb residents.

An avid fan of bright colors and large canvases, Buckner started painting in 1998 when his wife of 43 years, Dianne, gave him a gift of paint, brushes, and canvas as an anniversary present.

The artist set out on that occasion to depict a pot of flowers outside of his window and has been painting ever since.

In works such as “Red Geisha” and “Red Hills,” the 61 year old employs a vibrant palette with loose brushstrokes to create works that blur the line between abstract and representational art. Other paintings are slightly more realistic, but still feature Buckner’s signature use of bold colors and active motion.

A sales representative in the home furnishings industry for more than 25 years, Buckner regularly displays his work at The Brickyard, an event space in downtown Marietta which is owned by his daughter, Bonnie Buckner Revis.

Hundreds of Cobb residents have viewed Buckner’s works during the First Friday Art Walks. Patrons may also have participated in the interactive pieces the artist has developed to inspire non-artists to try their hand at painting. In works such as “Big Chicken, Little Chicken” and “Open for Business,” Buckner outlined compositions on canvas and let Art Walk visitors paint sections and sign the back of the painting.

“I try to get people involved in art,” Buckner explained.

“People who painted range in age from 8 to 80. About 200 people participated. Who knows where that can lead? Hopefully my work inspires others.”

By Allen Bell

LOCAL ARTIST Frank Buckner

404.606.6040 www.frankbucknergallery.com

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PLACE TO WATCH A CONCERT Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy 770.916.2800 www.cobbenergycentre.com

Jim Brickman was just one of dozens of artists who performed this year at the centre.

Well, it really comes as no surprise that this facility remains as a frequent winner in this category. From the state-of-the-art acoustics to top-of-the-line seating and breathtaking architecture, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre is the place that many top performers choose to perform in when they come to the metro area.

Toss in the fact that the Atlanta Opera and Atlanta Ballet make the centre their regular home and, well, it just makes sense. If you haven’t seen a show yet, our staff agrees with the votes on this one – it is a must!

OLD THING The Marietta Square

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The Marietta Square has always been a beautiful part of Cobb County. However, the last decade has seen the square experience a true renaissance with new shops, restaurants and cultural and art activities abounding. It also provides a great place for concerts and get-togethers.

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BARTENDER Carla Emmons Shilling’s on the Square 19 North Park Square Marietta 770.428.9529 www.shillingsonthesquare.com

Sessions begin

May28th, 2012!

“GO SLOWER AND GET THERE QUICKER!”

Regular customers at Shilling’s on the Square will tell you that Carla Emmons, who tends bar there five times a week, is the county’s best in that profession.

“She is a really friendly lady. She talks to everybody and gets to know them,” said Shilling’s owner Dave Reardon.

Emmons has been tending bar on and off for 30 years, 20 of which have been spent working for Reardon.

“A bartender is someone who is more like a hairdresser or psychologist. But if you want your guest to come back, you need to be able to keep a secret,” she said with a chuckle.

Asked what the difference might be between a good bartender and a great bartender, Emmons said it’s all about people skills and customer service.

“What has worked for me is really listening to the guest and remembering things about them,” she said. “Everybody wants to feel special.”

2012 Tennis Dynamics Summer Camps at the Laurel Park Tennis Center Tournament Players Camp, Advanced, Intermediate and Beginners

For boys and girls ages 4-17 and Adult Evening Sessions Hours of quality instruction and drilling throughout the entire summer of camps!

Singles and Doubles Tactics and Strategy!

For more information check out our website at

www.tennisdynamics.net Call: 770-919-8602 • Email: info@tennisdynamics.net

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MEAT AND THREE Chicken and The Egg 800 Whitlock Avenue Marietta 30064 678.388.8813 www.chickandtheegg.com

Jawaid Ahsan, MD

Owner and chef Marc Taft above, with Executive Chef Joseph Ramaglia, below.

Board Certified Neurologist, Fellowship trained in movement disorders (Tremors/Parkinson’s Disease) from Baylor College of Medicine.

Dr. Ahsan treats General Neurological Disorders, Epilepsy, Stroke, Neuropathy, Chronic Headaches, Hip, Back, and Neck Pain with injections/BOTOX for immediate relief.

Affiliated with Emory Johns Creek, WellStar Kennestone, Northside and St. Joseph Hospitals.

Immediate appointments available.

678-402-1053

1000 Johnson Ferry Rd, Ste F 120, Marietta GA 30068

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Arriving with a flourish in Cobb last year, the Chicken and The Egg has quickly gained traction in the restaurant scene with their farm-to-table fare.

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BAND

Brother Bert and The Goodbye Machine

678.464.4995 Email: bert.reeves@tbglawgroup.com

Brother Bert and the Goodbye Machine are Bert Reeves and David Willingham, both of Marietta.

With an auspicious name and a prolific lineup of local performances, Brother Bert and the Goodbye Machine plays with about as simple an ensemble as one might expect from a band – two guys and two acoustic guitars.

The small group’s members include Bert Reeves, 35, on vocals and guitar, and David Willingham, 29, also on guitar. Playing energetic rock covers ranging from classics of the 1960s to contemporary hits, the band performs throughout Marietta and Cobb County, including political events, public gatherings, private parties, and fundraisers.

Both Reeves and Willingham are local attorneys.

Reeves, a former assistant district attorney, practices law with Turner, Bachman & Garrett. Willingham, a former criminal defense attorney, currently works as an assistant district attorney with Cobb County. The band mates met while they had common legal cases and began playing together soon thereafter.

In addition to gigs for hire, Brother Bert and the Goodbye Machine plays regularly at Brew with a View on the roof of The Strand Theatre, and recently began performing as the house band at Red Hare Brewing Company on Delk Industrial Boulevard.

With their newfound success, the band plans to add a bass player and a drummer early this year.

Coincidentally, the leading contenders for both positions are attorneys as well. Additional band goals for 2012 include developing and playing some of their original music, and recording some of that music to share with broader audiences.

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SPORTS HERO Fredi Gonzalez Atlanta Braves GM

No Membership Fees No Funeral Home Needed $ starting at

850

All-Inclusive Cremation Credit Cards Accepted

Scan with your phone for more information!

770-732-6840 WESTGEORGIACREMATORY.COM

Massage Therapy • Couples Massage Hot Stone Massage Facials • Total Body Waxing & Electrolysis Cut • Color • Keratin Smoothing Treatment Highlights • Perms • Updos • Bridal Parties (An Italian Color Line) Any Color Service, Facial or Massage Not valid with any other discount. Exp. 3-31-12.

1727 Mars Hill Rd, Suite #205 • Acworth, GA 30102 Located in Brookstone Publix Shopping Plaza

678.403.1949 40

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COBB LIFE

When last we spoke with Fredi Gonzalez, the long-time Cobb County resident was preparing to become the first new Atlanta Braves’ manager in 25 years. To be fair, following a legend – especially one in a baseball crazy town spoiled by the riches of a near decade of winning – isn’t easy.

As Gonzalez can attest, in the sometimes unforgiving, but never unforgettable course of a season, the game can push you to the limits – test your patience. That snapshot may help define the 2011 MLB season as a whole. For the Braves, 2011 was a rollercoaster of emotions that included a major league high 26 extra-inning games, a third of their games (55) decided by a single run and a down-to-the-last-game pennant race that will help provide more than enough motivation for Year 2 of the Fredi Gonzalez Era. “Obviously we didn’t set out to do what we wanted to, which was to make the playoffs,” Gonzalez says.

“But I was really happy with our season. I don’t want to say it was disappointing; we just didn’t reach our goal. I think the more you experience – both the good stuff and the not so good stuff – helps make you a better person – a better manager. I think there were still a lot of good things that happened.”

Gonzalez’s analysis is part of the reason the Braves’ front office views his leadership as a positive step moving forward.

Gonzalez’s clubhouse cool and never-let-them-see-you-sweat approach to the game closely resemble that of Cox, who led the Braves to an unprecedented 14 straight division titles and the 1995 World Series.

That it worked out that Gonzalez was able to step in when Cox stepped down is viewed as a key marker on the Braves’ map of the future. Gonzalez and the Braves’ brain trust have a history. Gonzalez, Cox and Braves’ GM Frank Wren worked together as original members of the Florida Marlins’ staff in 1991.

A quick peek at Fredi Gonzalez’s baseball files reveals a pure student of the game. Following a six-year playing career (1982-87) in the New York Yankees’ farm system, he took over 20 games into the season as manager for the unaffiliated Miami Miracle (A) of the Florida State League in 1990. With strategic stops in and out of the Marlins’ and Braves’ organizations, he wound up the head coach for the Marlins in 2007, where he ended up winning 276 games and posting back-toback winning seasons in 2008 and ’09.

This season, he again will commute to Turner Field from his East Cobb home, where he lives with his wife, Pamela, and children, Gabrielle, aka, GiGi, 19, and Alex, 17.

“It was a privilege to manage the Atlanta Braves,” Gonzalez says. “It is an honor to manage a team that is supported around the country like the Braves. It’s our goal to get back into the playoffs and to put a product on the field that will make our fans proud.”

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Susan Hardy and Jenny Porter stock their shop with an array of unique gifts.

Kennesaw’s White Rabbit Cottage, located off Due West Road, houses a veritable treasure trove of one-of-a-kind gifts (and home décor for those who subscribe to the “happy birthday to me” philosophy) that keep loyal customers coming back for more.

Since 2002, owners Jenny Porter and Susan Hardy have stocked this 1920s craftsman-style farmhouse (and, since the 2006 expansion, another out building too) with everything from jewelry, food products and specialty books to art work, home accessories and bath and body products.

“Things really just fell into place,” Porter said. “We knew each other through church and have been friends for years.

White Rabbit just evolved out of kitchen table conversations. We never thought it would be all this in only a few years.” Porter and Hardy may not have foreseen the evolution of their brainchild, but Cobb residents didn’t need a crystal ball to know the pair had a recipe for retail success!

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BEST GIFT SHOP White Rabbit Cottage 3760 Due West Rd., Marietta 770.919.1100 www.whiterabbitcottage.net

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VOLUNTEER Cathy Brazeal

44 COBB LIFE October

2011

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Cathy Brazeal quickly points out that she doesn’t want this article to be about her, and equally as quickly she points at the rest of the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art’s Board of Trustees as “a great group of self-starters, entrepreneurs and hard workers.”

Over the past three years as a member of the Board, Brazeal has brought to the non-profit the same tenacity and work ethic she employs in her dealings as a creative consultant.

When the mother of three teenage to college-age kids lost her husband seven years ago, she poured herself into parenting and into launching Brazeal Consulting, LLC, a firm specializing in creative consulting, innovative marketing and interior design. These were all skills that caught the attention of Museum Chair Ray Worden, who invited Cathy to work on implementing new projects.

Cathy has shown great commitment to this assignment, and seems willing to do any other task.

“Cathy gives selflessly of her time, expertise and money,” says Worden. “She steps up and leads without expecting any kudos or honors. She has a special way of making others feel appreciated and valued.”

Worden adds that Cathy attends all the museum functions, often simply to help serve with “greeting guests, taking pictures” and even “taking out the trash.”

Museum Executive Director Sally Macaulay says Brazeal’s dedication to her commitments and her take-charge attitude have proven invaluable to many of the organization’s successful events.

“She headed up our decorator show house last year and worked tirelessly in leading this group to achieve a very successful show house for the Marietta community and the Marietta-Cobb Museum of Art,” says Sally. “She helps every year with the ‘Art of Comedy’ and came up with the idea of using light-up rings at the tables so patrons could have drinks brought to them.”

“Cathy is extremely talented and has excellent ideas on how to improve the museum and fundraise,” adds Sally. “She is the kind of board member that every non-profit would kill to have.”

Cathy is much more pragmatic in describing her volunteer work.

“There is always work waiting and needing to be done in any community,” says Cathy. “I am motivated by the challenge and the skepticism of people who say things can’t be done.”

Though she appreciates creativity and

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the arts, it wasn’t a great affinity for or understanding of art that drove Cathy to join the Board three years ago. Rather, she was asked to fill a need, saw where she could fit in to help, and jumped in with both feet.

“I am not an art collector and I don’t have a great knowledge about the history of the arts,” says Cathy. “I have great appreciation for all things creative, but there is nothing unique about what I am. I simply have a work ethic that enables me to assess a situation quickly, and then I determine what I can do to help.”

Another way of explaining her drive is with a story from many years ago.

“About 15 years ago I was in K-Mart on Johnson Ferry Road, and I saw this quote on a plaque, I wrote it on the back of a Winn Dixie receipt because I was too broke to buy the cheap plaque.”

On the back of that receipt, which she still has today, is written the words “Your life is a gift from God; what you do with it is your gift to him.”

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Far left, Chris and Niki Moffa of the Invigo Day Spa. Left, a customer recives a brush on facial from Emily Pierce of Kennesaw.

BEST DAY SPA Invigo Day Spa 2550 Sandy Plains Rd., Suite 125 Marietta 678.905.7377 www.invigodayspa.com

Since February 2009

, owners Niki and Chris Moffa have been an East Cobb staple at their full service spa, Invigo Day Spa, located off Sandy Plains Road in East Cobb. From facials and massages to hair removal and body wraps, everything at Invigo is comfortable, classy and unpretentious.

“Whether you’re coming in for a full day or just one service we strive for a relaxed atmosphere and excellent customer service,” Niki said.

This drive for excellence shows in all the complimentary extras at Invigo, including aromatherapy, hot towels and beverages.

“Everyone has a hectic life,” Niki said. “If we can just find 15 minutes where we don’t have someone asking us to do something, we should just decompress. We want to thank everyone for their patronage because we would not be here without our clients. We have the best clients. They are really great and we love them all.”

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atlanta cycling stays

ahead of the curve

Store employee Pete Whitehead demonstrates an electronic marathon bike.

The best bicycling products, apparel and accessories on the market. The most knowledgeable minds in town. Superior customer service. If you’re ready to ride, Atlanta Cycling has what you need. For 30 years, this Cobb County institution has been a onestop shop for cycling enthusiasts of all levels, offering everything from sales, to repairs, and service.

“Choosing the right equipment isn’t always easy,” says GM Todd Melton. “Our team helps you navigate through the cycling world to find the newest and best equipment available.” To stay ahead of the curve, Atlanta Cycling also partners with some of the area’s best programs, including the Atlanta Triathlon Club, Athletic Training Services, Scott Rigsby Foundation, and the Get Fit Atlanta Marathon & Triathlon Training Program. For in-town riders, it also has a Midtown location.

BEST BIKE SHOP Atlanta Cycling 4335 Cobb Parkway Atlanta 30339 770-952-7731 atlantacycling.com

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GOLF COURSE Marietta Country Club 1400 Marietta Country Club Drive, NW Kennesaw, 30152 770.426.7084 www.mariettacountryclub.org

No. 13.

That’s the toughest hole at the Marietta Country Club, says Director of Golf Stephen Keppler. If you can hit a straight drive along the lake, and follow it with a long lay-up over the creek and between the trees, you might have a shot to get on the green. Long one of Cobb County’s hidden gems; the near century old course offers something for every playing ability. Designed by noted architect Robert Cupp, the 27-hole championship course features a view of Kennesaw Mountain at virtually every hole.

“With a limited number of residences on the property, you feel like you’re alone in the country playing,” Keppler says. Along with the immaculate greens, there also is a large driving range, and a practice chipping and putting area. The Club also offers a pro shop, tennis building, 12 tennis courts (hard and clay surfaces), and an aquatic center with a 25meter, six-lane pool and children’s pool.

With almost a century of rich golfing history and tradition, Marietta Country Club has become one of the most respected country clubs in North Georgia. The 27-hole golf course was designed by Robert Cupp and is synonymous for great golf.

Probably the birthplace of golf in Marietta was known as Trammell’s pasture. This area immediately north of the old number 8 fairway was the scene of much athletic activity during the first two decades of the century. This ancient and honorable game, new to the sporting fraternity of Marietta, caught on like wildfire. An organization meeting was held on the Tuesday of September 28, 1915. A nine-hole golf course was planned with a limit of 100 male members.

In addition to the course, there is a large driving range area along with a practice chipping and putting area. The clubhouse incorporates a traditional Monticello theme in its design. This same theme is carried over to the Golf Pro Shop with an entertainment pavilion, the Tennis building complete with observation deck areas and twelve tennis courts both hard and clay surfaces, and the Aquatic Center with a twenty-five meter, six-lane pool and children’s pool.

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A water fountain on the fairway at the Marietta Country Club. Opposite page: Director of Golf Stephen Keppler has worked at the club for 11 years.

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BURGER Shilling’s on the Square

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Dave Reardon, owner of Shilling’s.

19 North Park Square, Marietta 770.428.9520 www.shillingsonthesquare.com

Don’t mess with success.

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That’s the formula that has kept Shilling’s on the Square a favorite dining destination for more than three decades.

And it also might be the reason Shillings’ burger was singled out by readers as the best in the county.

The basic burger here is a simple eightounce patty of 80/20 chuck, cooked with no seasoning, not even salt, and served with lettuce and tomato on a fresh-baked egg bun made especially for Shillings by a Norcross bakery.

Available all day, this is by far the most popular of all the burgers on his menu, said owner Dave Reardon, but more than 50 percent of them are ordered with cheese such as American, cheddar, Swiss or provolone. Onion straws are a crowd-pleasing extra.

For a change of pace, Shillings also offers a Cajun-seasoned burger with cheddar, a blue cheese burger, and a club version with bacon on toasted whole wheat bread.

There is also a patty melt on grilled rye bread with Swiss cheese and sautéed onions as well as a hickory burger with bacon, tomato, onion and cheddar and just a dab of barbecue sauce.

“We don’t put too much sauce on because you don’t want it to ooze out and drip on someone’s suit,” Reardon said.

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oil

finding in Georgia soil

GEORGIA FARMERS ARE OUT TO BRING BACK HOMEGROWN OLIVE OIL: Olive farmer Jason Shaw pours a sample of olive oil pressed from the first crop harvested on his farm in Lakeland, Ga. Opposite page. There's not much of it, but owners of a Georgia farm are giving a taste of the state's first homegrown olive oil in more than a century.

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Jason Shaw says his first fall harvest yielded fruit for no more than 500 bottles, just enough to sell at select tastings and to share with restaurant chefs in hopes of priming their palates for more.

Friends suggested Shaw sell his limited batch for $100 a bottle, like a fine wine. After all, it’s been more than a century since anyone could buy olive oil from Georgia.

It’s a farm commodity that sounds downright foreign in a state known for peaches and peanuts, and that sense of novelty is getting Shaw plenty of attention.

“We’re going to run out of oil very soon,” said Shaw, who settled on a more modest price of $25. “We’ve still got to figure out who we’re going to give this Georgia oil to without hurting anybody’s feelings. It’s a good problem to have.”

It’s been two years since Shaw, an insurance agent and freshman state lawmaker, launched an olive oil business in southwest Georgia with his banker brother and their cousin, the farmer of the family. This fall they used a hotrodded blueberry picker to mechanically harvest their first 20 acres in Lakeland, near the Florida state line. Experts say it’s the first commercial olive crop grown in Georgia since the late 1800s.

Shaw and his family partners, who already have more than $250,000 invested in the enterprise, are betting they’ll see strong profits from domestically produced extra virgin olive oil in a few years once their trees bear more fruit.

“Certainly everyone’s excited about it,” said Gerard Krewer, a fruit specialist who worked 29 years for the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension Service before retiring last year. “But it will take some time to see how it all plays out.”

The U.S. produces less than 1/10th of 1 percent of the world’s olive oil, and what little domestic oil there is comes from groves far away in California, Texas and Arizona. By contrast, only three countries — Spain, Italy and Greece — produce nearly three-fourths of the worldwide supply of olive oil.

Georgia may be best known for its peaches, peanuts and sweet Vidalia onions. But olives were long ago a homegrown commodity along the state’s 100-mile coast.

They were introduced by Spanish settlers who planted olive trees at missions established in southeast Georgia in the 1590s. British colonists led by Gen. James Edward Oglethorpe discovered the Spanish olive trees after their arrival in 1773. Plantations on St. Simons, Sapelo and Cumberland Islands grew olives for oil well into the 1800s until the Civil War, natural disasters and turnover in land ownership stamped out the crop.

In addition, families of wealthy industrialists started buying up old plantations on Georgia’s barrier islands in the late 19th century. The lands were used primarily as secluded winter getaways rather than for farming.

Shaw said the seeds for an olive comeback in the South were planted with him in the mid-1990s, when he was a UGA student studying abroad in Italy.

by RUSS BYNUM

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At Husk, Brock’s restaurant in Charleston, he’s made it a hardline rule that the ingredients used in all dishes must be grown or produced in the South.

“Olive oil was our biggest challenge,” Brock said.

He read about the Shaws’ olive grove online and contacted them. That led to Brock buying more than 20 olive trees from the Georgia growers and planting them outside his restaurant. After the Shaws’ first harvest was sent off to be pressed into olive oil in Texas, they made sure to send Brock a few gallons to try.

Brock said he’s used some of the Georgia olive oil as a standout ingredient at his restaurant, pairing healthy drizzles with fresh sliced tomatoes or woodfired vegetables. In late October, he took a big sampling on the road to Oxford, Miss., to share with other chefs and food writers at a symposium of the Southern Foodways Alliance.

After giving a talk on the history of Southern olives, Brock said, he poured the olive oil into plastic shot

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AP Photo/Courtesy of Jason Shaw

Rows of olive trees are seen on an olive farm before the crop's first harvest in Lakeland, Ga. glasses that were passed to about 300 giddy attendees. He said the freshness of the oil gave it a richness that imported olive oil, because of its age, doesn’t have.

“What I loved about it was it was so fresh, it was just so grassy and herbaceous,” Brock said. “If you’re getting olive oil that’s two or three

days old from the Shaws, it’s something we’ve never experienced as American chefs. It’s a whole new frontier.”

Krewer, the retired crop specialist, said it will take several years to see how well olive trees hold up to winters in south Georgia, which tend to be colder than in the southwest, as well as the more humid summers that can help fungus and crop diseases take hold.

Meanwhile, Shaw said the small olive business is steadily growing. His family now owns or manages 80 acres of olive groves — four times what they harvested this year. He predicts the larger acreage, plus more mature trees, could produce 10 times more fruit for olive oil by next fall and up to 30 times the size of this year’s harvest within four years.

“I’m trying to cure our dependence on foreign oil,” Shaw said, laughing.

“The long-term goal is to create a product that can compete with anything else on the market.” http://georgiaolivefarms.com/

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2011-12 SEASON Feb. 10-19 The Princess and the Goblin world premiere February 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 8 p.m., and February 11, 12, and 19 at 2 p.m. in the John A. Williams Theatre at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Ticket prices range from $20 to $120.

Feb. 18 Snow White at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Mar. 23-25 Man in Black, along with First Flash and Rush at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre May 18-20 New Choreographic Voices at Alliance Stage at The Woodruff Arts Center 770.916.2808 www.cobbenergycentre.com

The Princess and the Goblin will feature several Cobb County residents, including Pedro Gamino and Hanae Dillon, 8, seen left at practice. Top, Cobb resident Heath Gill rehearses a scene with the children. Right, Twlya Tharp demonstrates a scene with Stella McFall.

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COBB TO HOST WORLD PREMIERE OF

The princess and the goblin It’s been twenty years in the making, in the mind of renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp. This February, her newest endeavor, “The Princess and the Goblin” is making its world premiere debut right here in Cobb County with the Atlanta Ballet.

Tharp is a force in the dance world, with work spanning genres and generations. Her résumé is extensive; she has more than 135 dances, Hollywood movies such as “Hair,” “Amadeus,” and “Ragtime” and Broadway shows such as “Movin’ Out” (for which she won a Tony Award) under her belt.

“The Princess and the Goblin” is based on the classic children’s tale by George MacDonald, and the production is the first time Tharp has used children in a full-length ballet in her 50-year career.

In the story, a young princess, Irene, and a miner’s son, Curdie, fight and escape the cunning goblins that capture the town’s children and take them to their underworld.

The imaginative ballet is fresh and unique, on par with Tharp’s successful portfolio of works.

Vinings resident Emily Docherty, a fellowship dancer with the Atlanta Ballet and an understudy in the production, said “The Princess and the Goblin” is unlike anything ballet audiences have seen before.

“The story is very easily relatable to,” Docherty said. “It’s a real charmer. You kind of fall in love with all the characters, even the goblins too.”

The goblin scenes are Docherty’s favorite, because they are such a departure from classical ballet.

“It’s a nice chance for us ballet dancers to get out of our ballet mode and stop being so proper and explore a different type of character,” she said. “It’s really high-energy and a lot of quirky movements.”

Atlanta Ballet company dancer and Vinings resident Heath Gill, who portrays a goblin, agrees.

“The characters in the ballet give it a unique identity,” he said. “In many classical ballets there is a prince and leading lady. This has a lot of more complex characters and more offbeat characters.”

Cobb Life was invited to watch a rehearsal preview of the ballet, and I was also captivated by the goblin scenes. Even without costumes and set décor, the ballet was impressive, magical in a sense.

The softer, more classical parts are beautifully executed and filled with emotion. But there is also an intense, energetic element that is fierce and fun. When the goblins overwhelm the stage, it’s reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Their exaggerated, seizure-like movements make a very engaging visual effect.

Although they are the villains in the story, the goblins also provide the comedy. Especially when the heroine is kicking butt and knocking them down one by one with her acrobatic moves.

This ballet is very visceral; the dancers use a lot of facial expressions and gestures to convey their message and emotions.

“It has a bit of an edge to it,” said Gill. “The choreography, though classical, is very fresh — kind of a new idea.”

The Atlanta Ballet company, who co-commissioned the work with Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, is energized about working with Tharp.

“When you bring Twyla into the studios, she’s a dynamo,” said Atlanta Ballet Artistic Director John McFall. “She’s really nose-to-nose with the dancers. I haven’t seen the dancers in the Atlanta Ballet look quite like this before, and it’s been an extraordinary adventure for all of us.” by stacey l. evans photos courtesy of Atlanta Ballet

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Atlanta Ballet Artistic Director John McFall, Twyla Tharp and Andre Lewis of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet at a press conference.

In the studio, Tharp is very hands on, demonstrating every move for the dancers. She is adamant the dancers know the story and the music, which is a very emotional body of work by Franz Schubert.

“She has a very commanding presence,” said Gill. “She really does her research in what she’s working on and she expects us to do so also.”

Tharp chose to choreograph a ballet based on the MacDonald story primarily because of its strong female character.

“Irene is a hero,” Tharp said. “Irene is a character who does the job, and she does it by herself with the assistance of faith, which is represented by her connection to her [great] grandmother Irene, her namesake. So that is the magic in the fairytale and the fact that it had a really strong female protagonist who was allowed to do the jobs that heroes traditionally do in the 19th century was to me a real, as they say, selling point. She is a beautiful child — she has beauty, she has goodness, she has a spirituality about her.”

In translating the story from words to a work that communicates through action without language, Tharp said it was necessary to make a few adjustments, but the overall themes of faith and forgiveness remain.

In the story, Irene is connected to her great grandmother by an invisible thread, which her great grandmother weaved so that no matter how far Irene travels, she can always find her way home. In the ballet there is a beautiful, ethereal shadow dance that conveys the connection the two have.

“The child Irene and her mentor, her guiding figure, are connected always by this thread and it is Irene’s source of strength, it’s her power, it’s her knowledge, it’s her empowerment,” said Tharp.

The theme of forgiveness comes in the form of the children forgiving the narcissistic King-Papa, who is somewhat neglectful of his children.

• Since 1968 • SACS Accredited “Forgiveness allows him to change and • ADHD & LD • Grades 5-12 to become larger than himself,” said Tharp.

With its appeal to a wide audience, both young and old, “The Princess and the Goblin” is poised to make a mark in Cobb Smyrna 770-333-1616 County.

Georgia Special Needs Scholarship “World premieres are always exciting, getting in front of an audience knowing it’s something completely new they haven’t www. enter cademy.com seen, and seeing how they react,” said Gill.

The production will premiere February 10 and run through February 19.

HAPPY. SECURE. INSPIRED.

C

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ine road

b y M i c h a e l Ve n e z i a | p h o t o g r a p h y b y R e i d Tr a y l o r

In June I traveled to Bordeaux, France to attend Vinexpo, the world’s most important wine trade exposition. Held every two years, this international fair attracts wine producers, agents, distributors, educators and press from around the world.

For five days, the city becomes the epicenter of the global wine trade.

More than 48,000 participants and 2,400 suppliers from 47 nations presented their products to an ever expanding marketplace. It was interesting to learn that in addition to the thousands of traditional buyers from Western Europe, the UK and the United States, visitors from Asia swelled to almost a third of the registered attendees. Emerging markets such as China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and India are redefining where wines are consumed, and tens of millions of new wine consumers are entering the market at a rapid rate.

In addition to organized seminars, tastings, intense deal making and lavish parties, the city of Bordeaux successfully hosts its guests with great French savoir faire. The historic center of Bordeaux is on the UNESCO World Heritage list as “an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble” of the 18th century.

Located in Southwestern France this city on the Garonne River is France’s second largest port, and has a significant historical link to the early days of wine export. The region is most known for the

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famous chateaux which are the most coveted and expensive wines in the world. Names such as Lafite, Margaux, Latour, Petrus and Haut Brion have been acclaimed for almost 300 years and are must haves for the serious wine collector. Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington all had wines shipped in cask from the port of Bordeaux in the 1780s to take up residence in their Virginia cellars.

With more than 10,000 wine producing chateaux, 13,000 grape growers, 57 different appellations and 287,000 acres of vineyards, the region is one of the largest in the world. Producing still red wine blends made from cabernet sauvignon and merlot, dry and sweet white wine made from sauvignon blanc and Semillon, the region also produces sparkling wines and even rose. Simply put, Bordeaux is synonymous with wine.

The most interesting seminar was presented by the American Wine Market Council. They shared their research results to several hundred attendees who were eager to hear the revealing insights and trends impacting the United States wine market.

Please allow me to share some of these extraordinary facts. In 2012, the United States will surpass France as the world’s largest consumer of wine by volume. We are projected to enjoy more than 225,000,000 cases of wine which roughly translates to three gallons of wine per person. In addition,

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East Cobb’s Michael Venezia’s journey on the wine road brought him in touch with these fine vintages.

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Americans will spend more per bottles than any country in the world, making America the most important market for wine producers. We have reached gender equality with men and women sipping equal amounts of wine. Our rapidly developing wine culture has become similar to the European model with wines being enjoyed more regularly with meals and not just on special occasions. Wine has become a popular predinner beverage, often replacing the more traditional cocktail.

A glass of chardonnay, pinot grigio, pinot noir, or malbec is now the preferred choice of baby boomers, generation Xers and the newest group entering the market, the Millennials.

Numbering 70,000,000, they are coming to wine with a curiosity and thirst unequalled in prior generations. Enjoying wines in moderation prior to, during, and even after the meal with dessert will continue to increase our love and appreciation for this unique beverage.

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ig h lights A closer look at events and activities throughout Cobb in January/February

ROYAL WINNIPEG BALLET’S “WONDERLAND” >> Atlanta Ballet presents the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s “Wonderland,” a dynamic re-interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved characters, events and themes that are sure to surprise and delight. The Queen of Hearts, The White Rabbit, and the Mad Hatter are all on hand, displaying generous doses of wit, camp, and humor. The surreal and dark elements that lurk at the original story’s fringes are bravely realized in explosive passages of breathtaking dance and innovative multimedia. “Wonderland” is a multi-sensory experience, with edgy and athletic movement, an inventive electro-acoustic soundscape, and unexpected visual treats. Performances are January 12, 13, and 14 at 8 p.m. in the John A. Williams Theatre at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Call for ticket prices.

This show is suitable for audiences age 6 and older.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com

MARIETTA-COBB MUSEUM OF ART >>The Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art presents two exhibitions at the beginning of the new year, including works by local artist Robert Meredith and “Art of the Golden Generation.” Both exhibitions run through March 25.

Special events at the museum include “Art of Comedy” with Gene McKay and Jim Gossett on February 3, and “Martinis and Music” on February 10. The Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art is located in downtown Marietta at 30 Atlanta Street. Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, free for children younger than six years old, and free for members.

Information: 770.528.1444 or www.mariettacobbartmuseum.org

ELVIS LIVES >>“Elvis Lives” is an unforgettable multimedia and live musical journey across Elvis’ life. His iconic style, embraced by many of today’s artists, continues to intrigue audiences of all generations.

Featuring finalists from Elvis Presley Enterprises’ worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, as well as a tribute to Ann-Margret, audiences will fall in love with this phenomenal theatrical concert experience.

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre hosts “Elvis Lives” on January 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the John A. Williams

Theatre. Ticket prices range from $34 to $54.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com

BLAST >> Winner of the 2001 Tony Award for best special theatrical event and the 2001 Emmy Award for best choreography, “Blast” is comprised of 35 brass, percussion and visual performers brought together in a unique explosion of music and theatre. Born on athletic fields across the nation, “Blast” is a novel art form evolved from the showmanship of outdoor pageantry.

Presented by the Gas South Broadway Series, “Blast” performances are January 19, 20, and 21 at 8 p.m., and January 21 and 22 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices range from $25 to $51.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS >>Shen Yun offers an exhilarating world-class production on a grand scale and exquisite performances that celebrate the pure excellence and grandeur of classical Chinese dance and music inspired by the myths, legends, and divine beauty of 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture. From the myth of creation to the tale of the Terracotta Army, from the plateau of Tibet to the forests of Yunnan, from the snow-capped Himalayas to the Yangtze River, Shen Yun takes audiences on a magical journey through ancient dynasties and diversified ethnic regions. As part of the 30-country world tour, Shen Yun returns to Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on January 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m., and January 28 and 29 at 2 p.m. in the John A. Williams Theatre. Ticket prices range from $50 to $200.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com

TWYLA THARP’S “THE PRINCESS AND THE GOBLIN” >>This season Atlanta Ballet embarks on one of the most monumental collaborations of its 82year history – a world premiere story ballet by choreographer Twyla Tharp. Experience Tharp’s original fullevening ballet co-produced by Atlanta Ballet and Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. The story of a courageous young girl who confronts the trials of coming-ofage, this family-friendly ballet will involve students from the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education.

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Performances of Twyla Tharp’s “The Princess and the Goblin” are February 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 8 p.m., and February 11, 12, and 19 at 2 p.m. in the John A. Williams Theatre at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Ticket prices range from $20 to $120.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com

SNOW WHITE >>See the magic unfold in this one-hour family performance of the classic fairytale “Snow White.” This enchanting fantasy stars all of the favorite characters – Prince Charming, the wicked Queen, and of course, Snow White. It’s the perfect way to begin a lifelong love of the arts – an event the whole family will remember happily ever after. Choreographed by Bruce Wells, Atlanta Ballet’s production of “Snow White” is February 18 at 2 p.m. in the John A. Williams Theatre at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Ticket prices range from $10 to $56.

Information: 770.916.2808 or www.cobbenergycentre.com

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arena – living together as newly-singled roommates. Performances of “The Odd Couple” are January 13, 20, and 21 at 8 p.m., January 15 and 22 at 2 p.m. in the Earl Smith Strand Theatre. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors.

Information: 770.293.0080 or www.earlsmithstrand.org

AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ >> An ensemble of energetic and irresistible performers and the hottest jazz band in town will bring down the house with a musical parade of thirty of Fats Waller’s greatest hits.

A joyously creative songwriter of the 1920s and 30s, Fats Waller penned over 400 songs in his career – many of which have entered the classic repertoire of jazz standards that are still being performed today. “Ain’t Misbehavin’” pays tribute to his legacy and music, and includes the ever popular songs “The Jitterbug Waltz,” “I’m Gonna Sit

THE LADIES MAN >> An amorous doctor’s innocent lie leads to chaotic compounded mistakes involving a suspicious wife, a grumpy mother-in-law, an assertive female patient and her jealous Prussian husband – not to mention a well-intentioned patient with a serious lisp. Adapted from Georges Feydeau’s classic farce, “Tailleur Pour Dames,” the Theatre in the Square production of “The Ladies Man” will be performed January 18 through February 26. Performance times and ticket prices vary. Call for details.

Information: 770.422.8369 or www.theatreinthesquare.com RED LETTER JESUS >> Eleven years after his sold-out run of “The Gospel of John” at Theatre in the Square, Brad Sherrill returns to the Alley Stage to bring new life to Jesus’ words as written in Matthew, Mark and Luke. This world premiere performance is not to be missed. Theatre in the Square presents “Red Letter Jesus” February 8 through March 4. Performance times and ticket prices vary. Call for details.

Information: 770.422.8369 or www.theatreinthesquare.com

THE ODD COUPLE >> The cast of “The Sunshine Boys” will take The Strand stage again this year as Van Pearlberg and Bert Reeves star in “The Odd Couple.” This Neil Simon comedy classic pits the uptight neat freak Felix against the broody laze of Oscar in a dangerous

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ig h lights Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” “‘T’Ain’t Nobody’s Biz-ness If I Do,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Find Out What They Like,” and “Your Feets Too Big.” Performances of “Ain’t Misbehavin’” are February 17 through March 4 at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Information: 770.293.0080 or www.earlsmithstrand.org

THE SPOKEN WORD >> Authors, teachers, poets and co-creators of “The Encyclopedia Show,” Robbie Q. Telfer and Shanney Jean Maney have put their own unique stamp on performance poetry. Don’t miss these two rising talents. This event may not be suitable for all audiences. Performances of “The Spoken Word” are January 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. in the Performance Hall at the Bailey Performance Center on the Kennesaw State University campus. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $12 for students.

Information: 770.423.6650 or www.kennesaw.edu/arts CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTER >> Now in its 41st season, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center presents chamber music of every instrumentation, style, and historical period in its extensive concert season. The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performs February 15 at 8 p.m. in the Performance Hall at the Bailey Performance Center on the Kennesaw State University campus. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for students.

Information: 770.423.6650 or www.kennesaw.edu/arts

GEORGIA BALLET’S SWIRLING SOIREE >> Experience phenomenal new works by emerging and established regional choreographers performed by The Georgia Ballet’s professional company at “Swirling Soiree: An Evening of New Dances, Great Finds, and Tasty Eats.” In addition to the performance, patrons will enjoy a reception, plus an innovative and exciting silent auction with items for all interests, ages, and pocketbooks. Georgia Ballet presents “Swirling Soiree” on February 4 at 7 p.m. at the Murray Arts Center at Mount Paran Christian School. Ticket prices range from $12.75 to $21.75.

Information: 770.528.0881 or www.georgiaballet.com

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editorial calendar

Ready? We are.

G IN FEB! BRIDES COMIN

We are excited about the issues we have planned for this year and want you to be part of it! Here is a brief look ahead to what we have in store for the first few months of the year. As always, please send us your article ideas, photos and feedback to cobblifemagazine@cobblifemagazine.com.

And you can follow us on facebook, twitter and our home website www.cobblifemagazine.com

FEBRUARY

Cobb Life presents our Bridal Issue

MARCH 20 RISING STARS UNDER 40 APRIL HOME AND GARDEN

Urban exploring in Cobb

Eye on Acworth business

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Marietta Pilgrimage preview

The Marietta Pilgrimiage ‘Ringing in our Silver Anniversary Gala’ Preview Party was held at the home of former governor Roy Barnes in Marietta. He and his wife, Marie, hosted the black tie event in early December. 1. Dawn and Alan Levine of Marietta. 2. From left, Morgan Mendoza of Kennesaw, Shelby Bodiford of Marietta and Maryclaire Andres of Marietta. 3. Jason and Erin Jolly of Marietta. 4. Penny Burruss, Robin Burruss, Linda Hagood and Dr. Felton Hagood, all of Marietta. 5. Christie Russell and Lisa Ray, both of Marietta.

6. Lee and Stephanie Jenkins of Charlotte, N.C. and Lon Jenkins of Marietta.

1 PHOTOGRAPHY BY REID TRAYLOR

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Marietta Pilgrimage preview

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10 7. Kelly Weiner of Marietta and Angela Poston of Marietta, co-chairs of event. 8. Ron Francis of Marietta with Terri and Jim Guthrie of Powder Springs. 9. Greg and Cheryl Briscoe of Marietta, hosts of the event.

10. Betty Burnside of Marietta and Jan Fazzio of Marietta.

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12 11. Fran and Tim Hammond and Melinda Heidt, all of Marietta.

12. Theresa Jenkins and Dempsey Kirk, both of Marietta. Jenkins is executive director at the Marietta Welcome Center & Visitors Bureau which produces the pilgrimmage.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY REID TRAYLOR

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Vinings Jubilee Holiday Event

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The Vinings Jubilee Holiday Event took place in December at the Jubilee and included children having their photos taken with Santa Claus and families riding horse-drawn sleighs. 1. From left, Meredith Holman with children Miller and Carter of Smyrna and Caroline McGibbon with mother Mary of Smyrna. 2. Allison and Christian Riley of Vinings.

3. Chris and Kara Roache of Vinings with their children Brooks and Brady.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN SELF

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Vinings Jubilee Holiday Event

4. Santa waves to the children.

5. Diana and David Hicks, of Smyrna, with their children Victoria and Logan.

6. Sophia and Diane Caceres of Vinings.

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4 PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN SELF

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Vinings Jubilee Holiday Event

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7. The Janetta family of Smyrna. From back left, Kily and David, Luke, Molly, Kate and Abby, all of Smyrna.

8. Liz Darling of Mableton and Moyna Palmer of Mableton.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN SELF

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William Entrekin reception

Gallery 4463 and historic Acworth held an opening reception for several local artists including Cobb great William Entrekin. The event took place in November and dozens of residents attended.1. Robin Loe, Sonjia Alsobrooks and Dot Price, all of Acworth. 2. William and Susan Entrekin of Acworth. 3. Sharron and Ed Kelley of Acworth and Chris and Marybeth Henderson of Kennesaw. 4. Gary and Cynthia Pass of Kennesaw. 5. Bob and Marilyn Braude of Kennesaw.

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William Entrekin reception

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6 7 6. Jerry and Lita Deavers of Dallas. 7. Michael, Levi , and Monique Entrekin of Dallas. 8.Tracy and Ben Holiday of Douglasville. 9. Michael and Tane Patrono of Acworth.

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Art Institute Fashion Show

Students from the Art Institute of Atlanta’s fashion and retail management program held a menswear fashion show featuring four up-and-coming designers. The event took place at the Defoor Centre in west Buckhead and featured several Cobb residents. All proceeds benefitted the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta and Nicholas House. 1. From left, Villy Kaynarova of Acworth, Art Institute’s Carolyn Miller of Sandy Springs and Vesi Kaynarova of Acworth. 2. Art Institute Professor Courtney A. Hammonds, of Marietta and fashion designer Cotrice of Midtown Atlanta. 3. Annie and Phil Flynn of Vinings.

1 PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN SELF

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Good food and good friends...

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Visit Gaines Park and enjoy the warmth of a family-owned community.

A warm and welcome home where we are family!

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Loran Smith book signing

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Longtime newspaper columnist and cohost of Bulldog’s Tailgate Show Loran Smith signed his latest book “Bulldog Tailgating Recipes” at the Marietta Country Club in December. 1. James Southerland of Marietta watches as Smith personalizes a copy. 2.

Greg and Elaine Lucas, both of Marietta. 3. Steve Cole and Terri Cole, both of Marietta.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY REID TRAYLOR

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Loran Smith book signing

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6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY REID TRAYLOR 4. Carter Sturkie of Winston Salem, N.C. and Marian Smith of Marietta. 5. Nick and Angela Massengill, both of Marietta.

6. Dottie Gilreath of Marietta.

7. Robert Fowler of Marietta with Smith.

8. Shepherd and Ellen Long, both of Kennesaw.

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Slice of Cobb

BY HEATHER TEILHET

Refilling the bucket of optimism with New Year’s resolutions

T

he low success rate of New Year’s resolutions is well documented. For many, New Year’s resolutions hardly last into the month of February. In fact, some psychologists say setting New Year’s resolutions is a pointless exercise because failure is common, and we often wind up more dejected than when we started.

According to the Journal of Clinical Psychology, about 50 percent of the population makes resolutions each New Year.

Among the top resolutions are weight loss, exercise, stopping smoking, better money management and debt reduction. Statistics vary, but most researchers say more than 75 percent of people who set New Year resolutions eventually fail.

In fact, some researchers even link New Year’s resolutions to happiness, and suggest the less happy you are, the more likely you are to set New Year’s resolutions.

But I don’t buy it. To the contrary, the month of January makes me hopeful. I like to think of it as an annual clean slate, a free refill for my bucket of optimism. Maybe this year, I’ll get it right.

New York Times critic and journalist Brooks Atkinson said it beautifully. “Drop the last year into the silent limbo of the past.

Let it go, for it was imperfect, and thank God that it can go,” he said.

I love this quote and the thought of abandoning my bad habits, imperfections and less-than-proud moments into the silence of the concluded year. January marks a line in the sand, a blank page and the sound of the starting gun for a new opportunity.

I’d like to think most people naturally lean toward selfimprovement, and New Year’s Day gives us an annual launching point. Even if we don’t follow through, it seems healthy enough to reassess your life at least once a year. I’m no life coach, but surely it’s better to have tried and failed than never have tried at all, right? And even failed resolutions provide material for next year.

Having set that mediocre bar for my own resolution success rate, I’ll make myself accountable by publicly listing a few of my own resolutions for 2012. Public humiliation could be motivating. So, the following are my 2012 New Year’s Resolutions, in no particular order: I will stop texting and driving. And I will absolutely never text and drive while my girls are in the car. Never. Ever. Again.

(Well, unless I have something VERY important to say while stopped at a red light at an empty intersection.)

I will listen to my children. The real kind of listening. Not the “mmmmm-hmmmmm” kind of listening while I’m checking my FaceBook page.

I will let go of Working-Mommy-Guilt. I left work too early. I came home too late. The cupcakes are store-bought, and I missed the deadline for the annual report. Working Mommy readers understand. (Ambitious, but what the heck.)

I will read a book. Barbie Loves Ballet and my iPhone instruction booklet don’t count. I used to love to read. It’s an escape, a distraction, a guilty pleasure. Or maybe I’ll get some books on tape, since I can no longer text and drive.

I will make date night with my husband a priority. Reunions, weddings and parties don’t count. I mean a real date, real conversation, with only two people. Or maybe a double date, so four. But it’s really fun when all five couples of our playgroup get together, so that is ten. Not sure if that counts as a date night anymore, but this year I will routinely find quality, non-parenting time with my spouse.

I will be more kind to our dog. She sheds. She slobbers. She routinely rolls around in something smelly, maybe something dead. She is impatient and always underfoot. She waits until naptime, that peaceful moment when the house falls quiet, and she sneaks right up to the girls’ door for a massive shake. Her clanking, jingling dog tags wake them up. I used to be a dog-person. If I don’t kill her first, I will be more kind to my dog.

I will cook less chicken nuggets and more hot meals. I will steam vegetables and roast delicious dishes and plan ahead of the stressful bewitching hour. I will start by actually having ingredients in my house.

I will volunteer at the new Smyrna school that is soon to be under construction, for which our neighborhood will likely be zoned, and to which my girls may possibly attend Kindergarten in a couple years. This one is important, so no faking it. I will do my homework so we can make a good decision.

I will keep my children involved in our wonderful church and preschool at Marietta First United Methodist, where they are loved, protected and nurtured by more people than they can count.

And with that, my bucket is full and my list is made. It’s time to drop 2011 into the silent limbo of the past.

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