Cobb Life Jan-Feb 2017

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[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]

Cobb food blogger publishes local restaurant guide Cobb resident, food blogger and freelance writer Malika Bowling — who has been featured on HGTV, HuffPost, About.com and USA Today — has just released her food guidebook, Culinary Atlanta. It is the update to Food Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta.

The book will take Atlantans on a culinary tour through the southern city and will unwrap the best places to find, enjoy and celebrate local food offerings.

A bounty of mouthwatering delights awaits you in this engagingly written guide as well as a rich array of other indispensable food-related information including:

CULINARY ATLANTA

• Food festivals and culinary events • Specialty food shops • Trendy restaurants • Time-tested iconic landmarks • Atlanta Breweries • Local coffee shops

MALIKA BOWLING

You might recognize some Cobb staples, like Drift, Kiosco and Henry’s Louisiana Grill, just to name a few. The book is available at Amazon.com in both print ($14.95) and digital ($7.95) versions.

Keep up with Malika at Atlanta-RestaurantBlog.com.

Martina McBride extends her Love Unleashed tour into 2017 Martina McBride | 2. 24.17, 8 p.m. | Cobb Energy Centre $56.50 & $46.50, plus applicable fees Hot on the heels of her latest studio album, RECKLESS, award-winning country superstar Martina McBride has extended her Love Unleashed tour into 2017, partnering with CMT for the third annual Next Women of Country tour. Martina will be joined by special guest, Lauren Alaina, for these new dates.

Martina will offer VIP Experiences in select markets, which will include a meet and greet and Q&A session, exclusive autographed gift, premium tickets and more. More details available at www.MartinaMcBride.com.

Bowlero Marietta opens in Cobb Brunswisk’s Marietta is now Bowlero Marietta. The new name comes with renovated interiors and a magnificent new menu featuring tasty treats like pizza cupcakes, hand-breaded chicken tenders, pizza cake and (if you dare) the five-pound Behemoth Burger.

Aside from 40 back-lit lanes, there is an arcade and plenty of space for work groups or parties. The staff is top notch and the great food and equally great music make for a fun time. If you visit, tell them we sent you!

2749 Delk Road, Marietta www.bowlero.com/location/bowlero-marietta

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Photos / Bowlmor AMF

Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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12/20/2016 3:32:11 PM

[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY]

EATS OUTSIDE OF COBB: Taco Cowboy By LaTria Garnigan Taco Cowboy 1000 Virginia Ave., NE, Atlanta www.facebook.com/tacocowboy For this Eats Outside of Cobb series, I’ll be including reviews of some of metro Atlanta’s best dining locales.

If you frequented former Atlanta staples Noche, Strip, Smash and Twist (just to name a few), then you’ll be glad to know Tom Catherall is back on the Atlanta dining scene with his newest offering, Taco Cowboy.

In fact, his new eatery is located in the same spot as the former Noche in Virginia Highlands. And like its name suggests, tacos are the name of the game — but not the only star of the show. I was fortunate to attend a media dinner and sampled a plethora of dishes, all yummy and all of which made me anxious to return again and again.

Catherall does something truly intriguing with his taco offerings.

There are 11 varieties on the menu, my personal favorites being the grilled marinated steak, with jack cheese,

fajita peppers and onions, and the Nashville made with a slice of white bread for the shell, hot fried chicken, shredded lettuce, pickles and ranch.

The beef on the steak taco was cooked to perfection and I didn’t even want to sample the others, but the Nashville most definitely caught my attention.

I mean, how many times can you say you ate a taco on a rolled up slice of white bread?

Pro Tip: Go on a Tuesday to sample as many tacos as you want: they’re half off!

We have to end the night on a sweet note. Does an apple pie taco sound good? Well, it is. So is the pumpkin cobbler. And that’s not easy for me to say because I’m not a fan of apple pie or pumpkin — but you can’t deny these sweet treats.

Not only does Catherall serve up delicious offerings for your taste buds (really, he’s sort of a legend), but the ambiance is perfect for a date night or a chance to catch up with friends.

Read the full review at www.CobbLifeMagazine.com.

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Brookwood Christian School

Billie & Robin Bloom

The Dyslexia School 4728 Wood St. | Acworth, GA 30101 At the corner or North Main St and Wood St, north of the Hwy 92 overpass

BrookwoodChristian.com Kim.Wigington@BrookwoodChristian.com

Gallery Hours

Tues - Sat 10:30am - 5:30pm www.springplacepottery.com

Voted Best Shoppe in Bartow County, 2013 & 2012 15 E. Main St. - Cartersville, GA 30120 - (770) 383-9910 January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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[KID FRIENDLY COBB] Museum Mice Tour

Mixed Media Madness (Winter Youth Class)

Marietta Museum of History 1 Depot St., Marietta Jan.11 and Feb. 8 at 10:30 a.m.

Ages: 3 to 5 Cost: $5 per family The purpose of the tours is to introduce toddlers to history through very basic concepts like shapes, sounds, games, tools and jobs. Museum Mascots Murray and Etta are whimsical cartoon mice that will help convey the themes for the tours and provide a little fun. The tours will offer a variety of activities including story time and crafts.

In January, Museum Mascots Murray and Etta will talk about opening a restaurant. Don’t miss their dance party in February. Reservations requested.

770-794-5710; www.mariettahistory.org/education/mice-tours

The Art Station Big Shanty 2050 Kennesaw Due West Road, Kennesaw Tuesdays, Jan. 17 through March 7, 4:45-5:45 p.m.

Ages: 6-8 Cost: $60 resident / $85 non-resident, plus $5 supply fee Students will explore a variety of art mediums, including painting, collage making, drawing, sculpting and more in this eight-week class. More winter youth classes are available, check online for details.

Artstationcobb.org; 770.514.5930

School Age Story Time – Dr. Martin Luther King South Cobb Regional Library Jan. 12, 4 - 5 p.m.

Ages: 5 and up This weekly after-school story time also includes crafts, films, Legos, or music. Jan. 12 will honor Dr. Martin Luther King. www.cobbcat.org

Family Fun Time – Baby, It’s Cold Outside East Cobb Library 4880 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta Jan. 18, 3:30-4:25 p.m.

Ages: For families with children of all ages Family fun time may include books, activities, a short film, music, or a craft related to the week’s theme. More upcoming dates and themes: Jan. 25 — Let’s Go to China!; Feb. 1 — Playful Pets; Feb. 8 — 1, 2, Skip a Few, 99, 100!; Feb. 15 — African-American Authors & Illustrators; Feb. 22- Clothes Make the Kid www.cobbcat.org

Bilingual Storytime Jan. 19, 4 - 4:30 p.m.

Smyrna Public Library 100 Village Green Circle SE, Smyrna Stories read in Spanish and English for the whole family to enjoy. www.smyrnacity.com

Michaels Kids Club Craftstick Cocoa Mug 860 Cobb Place Blvd., NW Suite 140, Kennesaw Jan. 21, 10 a.m. - noon Ages: 3 and up Cost: $2, supplies included Kids will create a winter themed project. Sign up in-store, online or drop in. Check your local store for Kids Club schedule. classes.michaels.com

It’s Elementary —littleBits Extravaganza Mountain View Regional Library 3320 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta Jan. 21, 2-3 p.m.

Ages: Grades K-5 Kids will learn to make objects buzz, flash and wiggle by combining littleBits, electronic circuit building blocks, with everyday materials. Must register.

770-509-4964

Acworth LEGOMania!

Acworth Library 4569 Dallas St., Acworth Jan. 24, 4-5 p.m.

This monthly event is a winner for little ones who love to build.

LEGOs are provided. www.cobbcat.org

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Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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[KID FRIENDLY COBB] Wild Kratts Live!

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta Jan. 27-28 at 6:30 p.m. Friday and 1 and 4:30 p.m. Saturday Cost: $27-$97 plus fees Based on the hit animated television series, the Emmynominated Wild Kratts share facts about animals through comical demonstrations. In the theatrical show, the Wild Kratts receive a message that Zachbots are invading the Tortuga and the villain has stolen one of their favorite inventions. With hilarious pitfalls and plenty of excitement, the Kratt Brothers embark on their quest to save the animals.

Tickets may be purchased through Ticketmaster or at Cobb Energy Centre. www.cobbenergycentre.com

Trains, Trains, Trains Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw Jan. 28-29, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cost: Adults $7.50, children $5.50, ages 3 and under are free Modular modelers from around the Southeast join forces to

create huge train layouts. Last year’s layout featured everything from a model railroad yard to a model drive-in theater to a fight between a miniature King Kong and a miniature T-Rex. The event also has bluegrass musicians and interactive layouts for kids to play with.

770-427-2117, www.southernmuseum.org

Story Town East Marietta Library 2051 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta Jan. 28, 2-5 p.m.

Take a road trip through the library and complete fun activities at the stations along the routes. No registration required. www.cobbcat.org

Crafternoon Jan. 31 from 4-5 p.m.

Smyrna Public Library 100 Village Green Circle SE, Smyrna Open to all ages: Participants will let the creativity flow in making of crafts. www.smyrnacity.com

Atlanta Ballet — Snow White Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta Feb. 11-12 at 2 p.m.

Ages: under 12 Cost: $10 and up This classic fairytale told through ballet was made especially for young audiences, with a one-hour run time. www.atlantaballet.com

African-American History Month: Family Bingo East Cobb Library 4880 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta Feb. 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Families are invited to play a special version of Bingo and learn about influential African Americans and historical events. No registration required. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver. www.cobbcat.org

Great Backyard Bird Count

DR. MICHAEL LEWIS, Lead Pastor

Smith Gilbert Gardens 2382 Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw Feb. 18, 9 a.m.-noon Cost: $10/child of member; $12/non-member Learn about all things bird while participating in the worldwide Great Backyard Bird Count. Children can also participate in a birdhouse scavenger hunt, bird bingo or make a birdfeeder to take home.

770.919.0248; www.smithgilbertgardens.com

Mid-Winter Break Family Movies

Roswell Street Baptist Church 774 roswell street • marietta, ga 30060 770-424-9800 • www.roswellstreet.com Dr.Michael Lewis - Lead Pastor Watch live webstream at: www.RoswellStreet.com/watch-live

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Switzer Library 266 Roswell St., Marietta Feb. 20-23, Noon-1:45 p.m.

Enjoy a family movie each day during the week of mid-winter break.

Snacks are welcome. The lineup: The Wizard of Oz, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, The Land Before Time. www.cobbcat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mid-Winter-Break-movies-1.pdf

Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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[WORTH WATCHING] The New Year will bring a few new TV shows as well as some highly-anticipated films in movie theaters.

Here’s my roundup. — Compiled by LaTria Garnigan

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The much buzzed-about upcoming film “Hidden Figures” will grace theater screens this month. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monae, it uncovers the incredible, untold yet true story of a brilliant group of women who changed the foundations of the country for the better — by aiming for the stars. The film recounts the vital history of an elite team of black female mathematicians at NASA who helped win the all-out space race against America’s rivals in the Soviet Union and, at the same time, sent the quest for equal rights and opportunity rocketing forwards. (Photo: Hopper Stone) In theaters — Jan. 13, 2017.

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Und The next installment in the er w orld blockbuster franchise, “Underworld: Blood Wars” follows Vampire death dealer, Selene (Kate Beckinsale) as she fends off brutal attacks from both the Lycan clan and the Vampire faction that betrayed her. With her only allies, David and his father Thomas, she must stop the eternal war between Lycans and Vampires, even if it means she has to make the ultimate sacrifice. Along with Beckinsale, it also stars Theo James, Lara Pulver, Tobias Menzies, Bradley James, James Faulkner and Charles Dance.

In theaters — Jan. 6, 2017.

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TNT, has ordered a pilot for “Snowpiercer,” a futuristic thriller based on the award-winning film by Bong Joon Ho. A co-production of Tomorrow Studios and Turner’s Studio T, the hour-long drama pilot is being executive-produced by writer-showrunner Josh Friedman and Tomorrow Studios’ Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements, and the original film’s Bong Joon Ho, Park Chan-wook, Lee Tae-hun and Dooho Choi, along with CJ Entertainment.

“Snowpiercer” is set seven years after the world has become a frozen wasteland, and the remnants of humanity inhabit a gigantic, perpetually moving train that circles the globe.

Class warfare, social injustice and the politics of survival are questioned in this riveting television adaptation.

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[WORTH WATCHING]

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“Planet Earth II” Jan. 28 on BBC America Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, “Planet Earth II” premieres a decade after the ground breaking natural history series “Planet Earth.” In the new series, we’re able to go further, get closer and capture behavior and places that would have been impossible 10 years ago. Over three years in the making, in 40 different countries, on 117 filming trips and a total of 2,089 shooting days, BBCA’s “Planet Earth II” brings a whole new view of our planet. It is an immersive exploration of the islands, mountains, jungles, grasslands, deserts and cities of the world. Journey to the four corners of the globe to discover the extreme forces that shape life in each of these iconic landscapes and the remarkable ways animals manage to overcome the challenges of surviving in the wildest places on Earth.

Twitter: @BBCAMERICA; Hashtag: #PlanetEarth2

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Based on the bestselling novel by W. Bruce Cameron, “A Dog’s Purpose,” from director Lasse Hallstrom, shares the soulful and surprising story of one devoted dog who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love. The family film told from the dog’s perspective also stars Britt Robertson, KJ Apa, John Ortiz, Juliet Rylance, Josh Gad, Luke Kirby, Peggy Liption, Pooch Hall and Dennis Quaid.

In theaters — Jan. 27, 2017.

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Out on DVD — Disney’s classic, “Pinocchio.”

The film, which inspired the world to wish upon a star, arrives for the first time on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere on Jan. 10, and on Blu-ray and DVD on Jan. 31 with hours of new and classic bonus features.

“Pinocchio” tells the tale of wood-carver Geppetto’s beloved puppet who embarks on a thrilling quest — with faithful friend Jiminy Cricket — that tests his bravery, loyalty and honesty, all virtues he must learn to fulfill his heart’s desire: to become a real boy. | Facebook: www.facebook.com/DisneyPinocchio; Web: movies.

Disney.com/Pinocchio

“Fist

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Ice Cube and Charlie Day star as high school teachers prepared to solve their differences the hard way in the comedy “Fist Fight.”

The movie also stars Tracy Morgan, Jillian Bell, Dean Norris, Christina Hendricks, Dennis Haysbert and JoAnna Garcia Swisher.

In theaters — Feb. 17, 2017.

Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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Another Happy Ending!

Let Medi-Weightloss® Marietta Help You Live Healthfully Ever After

Regina, Actual patient, lost 50 pounds!†

Regina Davidson developed a weight problem in midlife. “I struggled with losing the baby weight after my third child,” she says. “And instead of shedding what I needed to lose, I’d gain small amounts here and there over the years. Next thing you know it’s August 2013 and my ‘baby’ was starting his senior year. For years I’d been taking care of my family. Now it was time for me to get healthy.”

Regina’s resolve to shed her extra weight coincided with a chance encounter with a former co-worker. “I noticed right away that she had lost a lot of weight,” remembers Regina. “When I complimented her on her appearance, she told me that she had lost her weight with Medi-Weightloss® and that our company even offered a discount on the program. That energized me. I love hearing weight loss success stories, and I always hoped that one day I would be the one telling it, supplying my own happy ending.”

Fifty pounds down, Regina loves her new, healthy life. She has maintained her weight loss for two years!

Regina signed up, but not without trepidation. “I was afraid I just couldn’t lose weight, or if I did, it would only be a few pounds and I’d really be no better off than I was before.” But Regina surprised herself – in her first week she lost 8 pounds, and she continued to lose steadily week after week. “I even survived the holidays,” she notes. “At my weigh-in after Christmas, I actually lost weight.

I felt so good. For the first time I felt as though I had found something that worked.”

Fifty pounds down, Regina loves her new, healthy life. She has maintained her weight loss for two years! “I’ve had some bumps in the road – for example, the loss of my father and some surgeries – but I continue to work toward my goal.

My daughter has to steer me away from the XL rack in stores to the one with the medium-sized clothes – I’m still not used to my new size. And I recently tried on my wedding dress. It looked amazing – I never dreamed I’d be able to wear it again! Before Medi-Weightloss® I felt out of control. Now I feel in control. My journey is almost over, but I have to ask others out there – what’s holding you back?”

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[HOME]

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bloom Floral designer delights in garage turned dream workspace

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t is my belief that to be creative, one has to first create the space in which to do it. And to say that Jenna Griffin is an artistic being is an understatement. Just a quick glance at her website, Gold & Bloom, and you will agree that she has the magic touch.

Jenna, a Cobb elementary school teacher by day and blooming florist by night, has been operating under the Gold & Bloom moniker for a few years now and has been making a splash all over metro Atlanta and beyond.

But until this past summer, there was something missing: her creative space. Operating out of your home can be a bit hectic, but the right space with enough elbow room makes all the difference. And just when Jenna and her husband, Lamar, had begun the daunting task of remodeling their garage, an opportunity came their way that they couldn’t resist.

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Written by LaTria Garnigan Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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Jenna Griffin in her newly redesigned garage turned office/floral studio.

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Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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The design makeover of Jenna Griffin’s garage includes black and white striped curtains that divide the room, a wall of ivy that includes her business logo, and brightly-colored furniture (sofa and work tables), which lends itself to not only meeting space, but storage solutions.

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Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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The introduction of shelving and work tables allows Jenna space to display the many accessories she uses as well as space to create her floral arrangements.

MAKEOVER MAGIC Still new to the floral business, Jenna received an email from a casting company looking for someone following their dreams who needed a space in their home to work from.

“And I thought, ‘Perfect!’ because we were about to start doing it ourselves. I thought it (the email) might not be real, but said ‘Let me respond’.”

That decision paid off. Jenna received a garage makeover courtesy of HGTV and American Family Insurance. At the end of May a 30-person crew came and redesigned her space as well as filmed a short interview for both websites.

It only lasted a day, but what a difference a day makes.

The design was headed up by Leigh Ann ReaganBarnes, who has experience in designing television and film sets, as well as art direction.

Not only does Jenna now have space to display and work on projects, but also to meet with clients, allowing them to see a few examples, while having a comfortable place to sit and iron out details of their big day.

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The addition of a desk and sofa allows for Jenna to meet with clients in a more professional manner than just sitting at the dining room table. Small personal touches add an intimate accent to the workspace.

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| A BUDDING BUSINESS When she noticed her creative spirit was beginning to fade, Jenna knew there was a need to harness that energy and have it cultivate.

“I’m really creative and I just wanted to be inspired and I made a list of things I might want to do instead of being in the classroom and flowers was on that list, even though I knew nothing about it.”

With little to no knowledge, Jenna decided to put 100 percent into learning about flowers and entrepreneurship. In 2014 she put together her first styled shoot and that catapulted her work on Instagram and her website.

Everything is still a learning process and there has been a learning curve in terms of setting up a business and navigating the floral scene.

“I had to research and ask other designers that I knew. A lot of them were really nice and told me to start out by playing with flowers — you just have to get your hands on flowers.”

As far as the business went, that took a lot of research as well as contacting the state.

“It’s a little complicated, and a lot of it is risk taking … but the end result is worth it.”

A BLOOMING EMPIRE Now that she is officially an LLC, Jenna can focus on what she truly loves: helping couples experience the perfect wedding day, courtesy of her floral arrangements. Not only is Jenna growing her business this year by going full-time after the school year ends this summer, but she is also expecting her first child.

“I want to be able to work from home and have my kids here,” she said.

With weddings as her main focus, Jenna is looking forward to traveling more, as well as continuing to learn more about design and gaining more professional development.

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Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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Web: www.goldandbloom.com Instagram: @goldandbloom 404-374-5638

Jim Glover Group, Inc. If you are selling your home, I am dedicated to using every possible marketing tool needed to get your home sold. My goal is to provide my clients with a superior level of service and resources to make informed decisions with your real estate purchases.

As a Cobb native, my network and knowledge of the metro Atlanta area proves beneficial in purchase and sales transactions and I am constantly networking with area agents and affiliates.

• 2014 #1 Small Group, Units Sold • Fifteen Years Experience • Coauthor, Marietta 1833-2000 • Sixth-generation Mariettan

Paige Walden Buyer's Agent

Office: 404.974.4420 | www.atlantafinehomes.com 3290 Northside Parkway NW | Suite 200 | 404.835.9600 © MMX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Street in Saintes-Maries, Van Gogh, used with permission. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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[HEALTH & WELLNESS]

liquid fuel Add some extra pep in your step with these smoothie recipes from Cobb residents

The holiday season is meant to be treasured and enjoyed, but January often presents the new reality of a larger pant size and a renewed focus on health.

To help beat the effects of the most gluttonous time of the year, we turned to local residents to provide tips, recipes and motivation for mixing in one of the easiest ways to jump-start healthy living: homemade smoothies.

By Katy Ruth Camp Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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Meghan prepares her green glow smoothie, chock full of spinach, fruit and Chia seeds.

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Many of our clients shudder at the mention of green smoothies. But in many recipes, you can’t even taste the greens yet they are detoxifying and extremely important for your health.

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Meghan Toups doesn’t just practice healthy habits at home: it is her practice.

The Kennesaw resident strives to keep her family of four in optimal health while also serving as the owner, psychotherapist and holistic health coach of MERGE Health, Fitness & Nutrition, based on the Marietta Square.

“I’ve been a therapist for 10 years and began to notice a common correlation between my clients’ moods and what they were eating, which is what lead me to start MERGE. If they were eating poorly, their moods were often far worse than when or if they were eating healthy. It also affected their sleep patterns and energy levels. Leafy greens were the foods that were missing the most in their diets,” Toups said.

So she started making nutrition-packed smoothies for her friends and family, and passing along tips to make them to her clients.

“Many of our clients shudder at the mention of green smoothies. But in many recipes, you can’t even taste the greens yet they are detoxifying and extremely important for your health,” Toups said.

Toups recommends packing more fruits and vegetables into your diet every day, a little bit at a time, and eventually, your taste buds will change to crave and like them. For smoothies, Toups said making them in the morning is a great way to start your day with a healthy version of breakfast, or take one to work for a mid-day snack.

If you are going to drink a smoothie as a meal replacement, Toups recommends adding protein powder to the smoothie to help you feel full for longer. Chia seed is a great addition to a smoothie, as it is full of Omega 3’s and helps to keep your brain, skin and nails healthy.

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Meghan’s Green Glow Smoothie Ingredients: • Large handful of spinach • 1 banana • 3/4 cup pineapple (frozen or fresh) • 1/4 cup frozen peaches • 1 tsp Chia seeds • 1/2 cup ice (omit if you’re using frozen fruit) • 1/2 cup water or almond milk Preparation: Blend in a high speed blender.

Add more liquid if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Yields two servings.

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Tricia’s On-The-Go Smoothie

Tricia prepares her on-the-go smoothie.

Ingredients:

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I needed something quick to take to work, and as I began looking into smoothies, I liked the idea that I could put spinach or kale in it and start the day well.

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• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk • 1 scoop of Tera’s Whey organic protein powder, bourbon vanilla flavor • 1 tablespoon chia seeds • 1 tsp ground flax seed • 1 cups spinach (or a generous handful b/c I rarely measure that) • 1 1/2 cups of fruit - mix of blueberries, pineapple, strawberries, peaches, or mangos. I usually pick three. On rare occasion I’ll add a half of a banana into the mix but that makes it super sweet quickly.

Preparation: Blend all ingredients in a blender.

Yields one serving.

If you are constantly on the go, need something convenient and don’t have the heart (or wallet) to drop a day’s paycheck on an expensive smoothie mixer, you are in good company.

Tricia Newton’s schedule keeps her on her toes, whether it’s for her job with Image Manufacturing Group, spending time with friends and family, managing her Marietta house or volunteering for various nonprofits. So she could have easily fallen into the trap of pre-packaged processed foods for breakfast or frozen meals for lunch.

Instead, she put her ordinary, Oster blender from Target to work and makes health and wellness a top – and convenient priority.

“I needed something quick to take to work, and as I began looking into smoothies, I liked the idea that I could put spinach or kale in it and start the day well,” Newton said.

When it comes to incorporating greens with your smoothies, Newton recommends starting with spinach, as it is virtually tasteless and kale can sometimes taste bitter. She also recommends experimenting with fruits and to use frozen fruit as it keeps fresher longer and avoids the need to add ice to the smoothie.

“Change up your fruits and you’ll find what you like and you don’t live. I love bananas, but I found they were too sweet in smoothies. You have to change it up sometimes until you find what you like,” Newton said.

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Left, Meghan with her husband BJ and their children Lilly Kate, 5, and Liam, 3.

Below, Tricia enjoys her homemade smoothie.

Teena Garcia’s Clean Green Smoothie Ingredients: • 1 cup filtered water • 2 handfuls of organic spinach • 2 handfuls of organic kale • 1 organic green apple • 1 frozen banana • 1/2 Lemon Preparation: Blend, drink and feel amazing!

Other local smoothies

Stephen Ellis’ Smoothie Ingredients: • 2 cups kale or spinach • 2 cup mixed fruit • 2 cups almond milk • 1 tbsp Macha green tea • 1 tsp local honey • 3 or 4 small carrots • 1 crushed vitamin b tablet.

Preparation: Mix together. Fruit and kale can be fresh or frozen.

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[IN MY CORNER]

you’re simply

the BEST!

By LaTria Garnigan

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very January for Cobb Life, we issue our Best Of list.

It’s voted on by you, our readers, and features a multitude of businesses located in the county. Well, I wanted to take a spin on that and issue my personal Best Of for Cobb.

These are places and events that I enjoyed the past year.

1. BEST DESSERT: I don’t have to think twice about this: CamiCakes. For the better part of a decade, this has been my go-to place for all things cupcake. I trust no other. While the sweet potato is my No. 1 choice, I do try to sprinkle in a few of the other delicious flavors when I go — like the mint chocolate, strawberry and peanut butter chocolate. The sheer size (you basically have to eat them with a spoon!) of the cupcakes and the fresh, melt-in-your-mouth goodness alone are a testament to the business’ continued growth. Cobb residents have double the opportunity to try out this franchise as there are locations in Vinings and Smyrna (which has the creamery that I still have yet to try). So if you’re in need of a sweet fix, visit. You won’t be disappointed!

2. BEST SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS: A chance glance on Snapchat led me to one of my favorite interviews of last year.

One of people I follow (@Mattieologie) kept posting pics of these delicious looking smoothies and juices and one day showed the name, Juice Me Too, which mentioned they were in Cobb.

I quickly pulled up my Internet browser and searched for the website. After a few emails back and forth I was able to meet and chat with owners Patrice Landers and her mom Bondine Leonard about their burgeoning business. They are a great mother/daughter team and if you ever get the chance, stop by and chat with them (you know, once you buy something). Bondine, a registered nurse, has a wealth of knowledge on nutrition, while Patrice is the mastermind of all the tasty recipes. Not only are the juices delicious, but the vegan food is also very yummy and filling.

And not to mention, their Austell location is perfectly positioned behind an LA Fitness, for the pre- and post-workout crowds!

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3. BEST BREAKFAST: I had my first chicken biscuit from Martin’s growing up in Cartersville and it was a favorite of mine as an on-the-way-to-school breakfast. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized they were based in Cobb. I hadn’t seen one outside of Cartersville and when I finally started venturing in Cobb because of work, I was elated to see more locations.

I’ve had other options on the menu over the years, but hands down my go-to choices are the chicken biscuit and sausage and gravy biscuit — which to me is a classic anywhere, but Martin’s does it just right!

4. BEST COMEBACK/PERFORMANCE VENUE: The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre is a magnificent space. I’ve seen musicals there and the sound quality is pitch perfect. But earlier this year I was able to take a friend (and huge fan) along to see one of Tracy Morgan’s first comeback performances since his vehicle accident a few years ago. The performance alone was great as Tracy did not skip a beat from what we’re used to with his stand up. And what I liked most, other than his raucous comedy, was the diversity of the crowd. Folks from all walks of life were there cheering on someone who not only shines at making you laugh, but was also someone we were all rooting for in his triumphant return to the stage. So kudos to CEPAC for always offering such great and varied entertainment, and to Tracy for an outstanding show!

5. BEST COLUMN: It’s been a little more than a year since I committed to writing a monthly column. And while on the outset I was elated, some months have been a struggle of what to write.

But for the month of May, I had no such shortage. My mom has always enjoyed the handmade gifts I’ve given her for Mother’s Day and I figured what better way to honor her than with her very own published piece of work. That column is by far my favorite thing I’ve written in life and I’m sure I’ll have a tough act to follow for this year. And now those words are framed and will forever hang on her wall. So even when I get on her nerves, I’ll just point and go ‘Remember that time I wrote this?’ Hopefully it’ll work, if not, then I’ll have to write another one.

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WE CARE ABOUT THE MOMENTS YOU WANT TO SEE

Eye Consultants of Atlanta

At Eye Consultants of Atlanta we want you to see what matters. That’s why two of our nine offices are right here in Cobb County. Our physicians offer complete eye exams for the whole family, from children to seniors. Our offices have the latest medical equipment, and we can provide specialized care for the treatment of cataract, retina, glaucoma, cornea, and oculoplastic disorders. For your convenience, we also have an optical shop, a contact lens department, and a comprehensive hearing center. Call us today.

Don’t miss out on the moments you want to see.

Cumberland:

Adult: 404-351-2220

Marietta:

Adult: 770-424-5669

Pediatric: 770-422-4055

www.eyeconsultants.net

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We had thousands of votes this year for our annual Best Of Cobb! Thanks to our readers for sending in your votes for your favorites. We hope you enjoy reading this section and get ideas on where you can go eat, be entertained and more for 2017.

Compiled by Meredith Pruden, Michael J. Pallerino, Stacey L. Evans, Mark Wallace Maguire and LaTria Garnigan. Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell and Kathryn Ingall

Best Breakfast Café 33 2520 East Piedmont Road, Suite 106, Marietta 770-977-6915 www.cafethirtythree.com How do we love the Café 33 waffle sandwich? Let us count the ways. But, it’s not just the waffle sandwich that won this East Cobb eatery the top spot for Best Breakfast 2016. From the fluffy build your own omelet and decadent breakfast bowl, to the Captain Morgan french toast and lick-the-plate mom’s doughnuts, you really can’t go wrong with breakfast (or anything else for that matter) at Café 33. They even have a build your own bloody mary bar (the perfect accompaniment to any brunch) on Saturdays and Sundays.

Chef-owner Shane Clements and his team work tirelessly to bring mouthwatering breakfast and lunch (both served all day) to the people of Cobb, and he said the Best Of honor (their second in five years) means a lot and makes all the hard work worth it. “I’m at a loss for words,” he said. “This is a team deal.

Without my team, I’m just another guy chasing a dream. We won this because of them — not me.”

The Café 33 team has seen a lot of milestones lately. First, they began full bar service in October, then they were featured in the December issue of Cobb Life.

What’s next? This month marks the beginning of dinner service several nights a week, and get ready for an expanded patio section this spring. With all these new happenings, they may take more than Best Breakfast next year!

From left, The Café 33 team Zander Buser, Hazel Morgan, Heidi Vanbuskirk, Makella Carlson, owner Shane Clements, Kristen Tully, Chance Hill and Donnie Teague.

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Best Boutique Glitzy Chiks Acworth: 3344 Cobb Pkwy. NW 770-529-6620 Marietta: 2932 Canton Road 678-275-2387 Find them on Facebook

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here do you go when you need a last-minute gift for one of the ladies in your life or just want to indulge in a bit of retail therapy for yourself?

Glitzy Chiks boutique, with two locations in

From left, Glitzy Chicks employees Tammy Bagley, Erin Wallace and Deana Wolfe.

KIAÂŽ SOUL*

*See official rules for details.

Actual gifts not displayed. Retail value of total prizes given is valued up to $35,000.00.

Terms and Conditions apply. Visit www.charterbank.net for more info.

Get the details at www.charterbank.net www.twitter.com/CharterBK

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www.facebook.com/CharterBank

Cobb Life | January/February 2017

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Cobb, has a little something for everyone from ages 9 to 90 and a wide variety of items you won’t find anywhere else. From boots, purses and jewelry, to clothes, gifts and even embroidery services, Glitzy Chiks has just about everything you could possibly want in a boutique experience— and it’s all color-coded.

Rustic chic, country cool and eclectic, Glitzy Chiks focuses on good quality apparel at reasonable prices. Although they do carry some big name brands (like Grace in LA Jeans, Piko Tops, Lokai bracelets and Paparte personalized gifts), the store’s bend toward value means your dollar stretches further than at the big retail stores. What’s more, you certainly won’t be skimping on style or customer service.

For first timers, be sure to set aside some time to peruse the truly abundant inventory, and don’t forget to enlist the help of staff. They operate more like personal shoppers than retail clerks and are more than happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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Best Festival Chalktoberfest Marietta Square Chalktoberfest.com 770-528-1444 Streets lined with stunning art drawn with chalk. A huge selection of craft beers. Live music. Your favorite food trucks. Activities that inspire creativity. Shopping a variety of vendors. Plenty of things to do to keep the little ones entertained. Gorgeous fall weather. Is Chalktoberfest the perfect festival? The huge, increasing turnout each year suggests many locals think so, including Cobb Life readers who voted it Best Festival. The annual Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art event has grown since its beginnings as the Marietta Chalk Fest, incorporating the craft beer into the mix in 2015 with its name change to Chalktoberfest. Last year over 60,000 people flocked to the Marietta Square to view works by the 88 artists from the U.S., Canada and Mexico, taste over 120 craft beers and hear live music from a number of bands.

Held the second week of October every year, festival-goers get to watch and interact with artisans as they draw intricate 2D and 3D masterpieces on the concrete canvas. The unique festival also lets locals try their hand at the street art by participating in the non-professional chalk contest for individuals and school teams. The Craft Beer Festival takes place on Saturday, while Sunday is Family Day, featuring an abundance of activities and crafts for kids, including a kids chalk competition.

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Best Customer Service Charter Bank locations throughout Cobb www.charterbk.com It’s the little things that make a difference. Calling customers by name when they enter the branch. Escorting them to where they need to go rather than pointing fingers. Offering coffee and cookies in the lobby, and a place for kids to be engaged. Returning calls promptly.

When you do business with Charter Bank, you become part of the family. “Each customer we serve has different needs based on their current reality and stage of life,” said Sylvia Hamby, Charter’s Cobb

County regional president. “It’s our job to listen carefully whether it’s face-to-face in our branches, over the phone through our call center or through electronic communications such as email or social media. Customers will connect with us when we listen and respond accordingly.”

The Cobb Charter team was part of the Community Bank of the South, which for 16 years delivered exceptional service to area residents. After Charter’s acquisition of Community Bank, Hamby and her team continued its tradition of helping provide its customers with the knowledge, energy and innovation to simplify how people save, spend and borrow money. “If applying our knowledge and sharing our energy through daily interactions with our customers, or offering the latest technology and services, are not delivered with compassion for or recognition of the individual they’re worthless,” Hamby said.

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Best BBQ Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q New London Square 1425 Roswell Road 770-971-3201 www.williamsonbros.com For over 25 years, Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q has been feeding the metro area and we’ve all been better for it.

Brothers Danny and Larry Williamson brought their barbecue concept to the area from Alabama.

The open-pit restaurant features a rich menu with meats cooked on the open fire daily with hickory and hardwood.

Staples include baby back ribs, pulled pork and chicken.

Everything in the restaurant is homemade and the brothers stay true to the Southern style of barbecue. Williamson said the customers’ pick is definitely the chopped barbecue pork day in and day out.

“That’s always been No. 1,” said Williamson.

He said Boston butts are cooked for eight hours, chopped up and topped with the restaurant’s signature barbecue sauce.

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MAGAZINE

Cobb Life Issue

Published Date

Space Deadline

January / February 2017 Cobb / Cherokee Life Bridal Guide 2017 March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 Summer 2017 Factbook 2017 Football Kick-Off 2017 September 2017 October 2017 November 2017 December 2017

01-08-17

12-08-17

02-12-17

02-08-17

03-05-17 04-02-17 05-07-17 06-04-17 07-30-17 08-13-17 09-03-17 10-01-17 11-05-17 12-03-17

02-08-17 03-02-17 04-10-17 05-18-17 06-14-17 07-10-17 08-08-17 09-05-17 10-02-17 11-01-17

To Advertise:

Best Place To Spend The Day Outdoors Smith-Gilbert Gardens 2382 Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw 770-919-0248 www.smithgilbertgardens.com

Wade Stephens at wstephens@mdjonline.com or call 770-795-5000

To Subscribe:

circulation@cobblifemagazine.com or call 770-795-5001

With over 3,000 species of plants and 31 sculptures on its 16 acres, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a landscape of lush and colorful beauty for outdoor lovers. The grounds boast a variety of flora for green thumbs as well as those who just like to be surrounded by pretty things. On site is a bonsai exhibit, the Palladino Camellia Garden, a rose garden, a mystical-looking conifer area, as well as a tea house and waterfall, all connected by woodland paths.

What makes Smith-Gilbert unique is that, though thoughtfully constructed over several decades, many of its areas have a wild feel, as if it has been growing naturally.

History buffs appreciate the historic Hiram Butler Home (circa 1880), and art lovers are drawn to the intriguing sculptures. Craft and garden enthusiasts can take part in workshops, ranging from beekeeping to wreath making. Guided tours are available with advance reservations for groups of five or more. Guided themed field trips can also be booked in advance.

Admission: Adults, $7; seniors (age 60+) or active military, $6; children, ages 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. Memberships and annual passes are also available. Open year round, typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday to Saturday; closed on Sunday and Monday.

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Best Home Decor Fabric & Fringe Warehouse 2440 Canton Road, Marietta 770-794-8106 www.fabricsandfringe.com We’re beginning to see a pattern at Fabric & Fringe Warehouse— and it’s not just in their constantly revolving inventory of stylish fabrics. This three-time Best Home Decor winner has quite a following, and it’s easy to see why.

In a time where most competitors have gone to a cut yardage special order model, Fabric & Fringe still stocks full bolts of premium fabric in its 17,000-square-foot space. They also, as the name might suggest, have quite an impressive selection of fringe and other

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accoutrements.

There really is no other home decor store quite like it, which is why fans come from miles around. Owners Marty Williamson and Marla Garrett work hard to ensure customers never are disappointed. “We always have a flow of new goods,” Williamson said. “We have merchandise for everybody.”

In keeping with his vision, a new outdoor line arrives this spring.

The cutting-edge fabric boasts more light hours, enhanced durability and easier cleaning but it’s the great new patterns and leading edge woven options that make it a standout addition. It will be accompanied by a new indoor-outdoor trim. Already in stock, is the made in the USA Revolution line, which is chemical free and uses innovative fiber technology for stain and sun resistance and easy cleaning.

Find out today what interior design professionals (and major film studios) already know — there’s no place better for home decor than Fabric & Fringe.

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From left, Fabric and Fringe co-owner Marla Garrett, store manager Lana Fairchild and co-owner Marty Williamson.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Superior Plumbing 2 Eye Consultants of Atlanta 3 Marietta Hearing 4 Ed Voyles Automotive 5 Life Grocery 6 The Bottoms Group 7 Pinnacle Orthopaedics 9 Atlanta Communities 10 Faith Designs Florist 10 Brookwood Christian School 11 Spring Place Pottery 11 Diamonds R Forever 12 Sterling Estates Senior Living 13 Roswell Street Baptist Church 14 West Cobb Funeral Home 15 Brawner Hall 16 Words of Faith Church 16 Medi-Weightloss 17 Mt. Bethel Christian Academy 20 Fleming Carpet 21 White Rabbit 22 Atlanta Fine Homes - Jim Glover 23 Marietta Eye Clinic 23 Plastic Surgery Center of the South 26 Pediatric Dental 27 Dermatology Consultants 28 Marietta Plastic Surgery 29 Charter Bank of Smyrna 32 Arbor Terrace 32 Cumberland Diamond Exchange 33 Elevation Chophouse 52 Indy Style Salon 36 2017 Cobb Life Magazine Schedule 37 Blackwell’s Jewelers 39

Cobb EMC 37 32 Dental 41 Henry’s Louisiana Grill 41 Three 13 Salon 43 Harry Norman - Cobb Marietta 44 Julep’s Home Décor 44 Manders Dental 46 Gabriel’s 46 The Walker School 47 Miracle Method 47 Winnwood Retirement 50 Town Center CID 51 Fabric and Fringe 52 Gaines Park Senior Living 53 Macland Baptist 53 Marietta FUMC Weekday 54 Wild Birds Unlimited of Vinings 54 Presbyterian Village 55 Broadway Across America 56 Sweetwater Mission 57 Theatre in the Square 58 Midway Christian Covenant 59 Dr. Boland McCamy 59 J. Christopher’s 60 Marietta Podiatry 61 Aqua Guard Basements 62 Brumby Chair 62 Cobb Hardware 63 Apple For Your Teacher 64 Young Creative Artist 64 O’Dell & O’Neal 65 Mayes Ward - Dobbins Funeral Home 67 WellStar 68

Cobb Life

January/February 2017 Volume 13, Issue 1

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Otis Brumby IIl

GENERAL MANAGER Lee B. Garrett

V.P. ADVERTISING Wade Stephens

EDITORIAL STAFF DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES Mark Wallace Maguire

ASST. DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINES LaTria Garnigan

CONTRIBUTORS

Therra C. Gwyn, Stacey L. Evans, Meredith Pruden, Katy Ruth Camp, Nicole Price, Michael J. Pallerino

PHOTOGRAPHY

Erin Gray Cantrell, Kathryn Ingall, Kelly J. Huff

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

LaTria Garnigan, Mark Wallace Maguire

PROOFREADER Nicole Price

ADVERTISING STAFF ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tara Guest

COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER Becky Opitz

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephanie deJarnette, Paula Milton, Jill Abbott, Katelyn Ledford, Charlene Kay, Ginny Hrushka, Kim Fowler

GRAPHICS COORDINATOR Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jennifer Hall, Carlos Navarrete

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett

INFORMATION Cobb Life is published 10 times a year by the Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 30,000 homes and businesses.

To subscribe, email circulation@ cobblifemagazine.com or call 770.795.5001 To advertise, contact Wade Stephens at 770.795.4001 Please send all editorial correspondence to mmaguire@cobblifemagazine.com www.cobblifemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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Best Burger Moxie Burger Papermill: 255 Village Pkwy. NE, Suite 120, Marietta Shallowford: 2421 Shallowford Road, Suite 158, Marietta Phone: 770-627-3201 678-398-9819 www.moxieburger.net If Moxie Burgers had been around during the great Atlanta burger wars, they would have won hands down — if OTPers had

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a vote. Launched in 2012 out of a small storefront in Paper Mill Village (where the East Cobb location still resides), Moxie is the brainchild of Pope High School graduate and East Cobb native Chas D’Huyvetter. Today, Moxie is a popular locally-owned neighborhood gathering place with three locations (two in Cobb) and a flood of community support.

Although the locations are different, all boast a family-friendly atmosphere, great ambiance, good vibes and a hand-selected craft beer and wine list to accompany their made in house fresh daily fare. Choose from signature creations or build your own burgers and sandwiches with protein selections, including certified Black Angus beef, house-seasoned ground turkey or lamb, chicken breast and veggie-friendly portobello cap or black bean patty. Regardless what you decide, everything is made to order.

And, just because Moxie won Best Burger doesn’t mean there aren’t other menu items worth checking out. Their entree salads are huge and tasty. The Hebrew National hot dogs are stellar, and we bet you can’t eat just one of the sides (especially the pickle chips). Plus, where else in Cobb can you regularly get King of Pops gourmet popsicles for dessert?! Color us hooked on Cobb’s Best Burger.

From left, General Manager and co-owner of Moxie Burger Scott McLelland and company co-founder Brandon Eisenhart.Opposite page: The Moxie burger consists of an angus beef patty topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese and moxie sauce.

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Best Salon and Spa Three-13 Salon, Spa and Boutique 2663 Canton Road, Marietta 770-426-0313 three-13.com Above, Three-13 stylist Chloe Conkle curls the hair of customer Heather Velon. Right, The Three-13 Salon and Spa management team, from left, Melanie Henderson, Natascha Crowell, Leslie Crowell, Traci Williams, Stephanie Knight, partner Tony Lacey, managing partner Lester E. Crowell Jr., partner Marian E. Crowell, Shannon Woodard, Mandy Hall, Christina Herrera and Collie.

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Three-13 strives to be more than just a salon or a spa. They strive to be an experience that leaves guests feeling welcomed, pampered and beautiful.

That experience starts when clients first walk through the door — staff make it a priority give a warm and inviting welcome to make sure everyone feels at home, said Tony Lacey, partner and director of the artistic team.

Every client is also pampered with a complimentary parrafin wax treatment for the hands — which not only makes your hands smooth, but is also a very relaxing experience. If that doesn’t do the trick, the complimentary scalp, neck and upper back massage while getting shampooed certainly will.

Although they are known for cutting-edge style, the hair artists at Three-13 can help you achieve the look you want, whether it’s cutting-edge or conservative and traditional, said Marian E. Crowell, partner and international hairstylist. The employees are continuously being educated in their craft, and they educate their clients also, ensuring they know how to recreate the ‘fresh from the salon look’ at home.

“We have very motivated employees that love what they do.

And I think that makes a big difference,” Tony said.

Many Cobb County brides also opt to get their hair and makeup done at Three-13, Marian said.

“Our makeup artists are amazing. There is big difference between getting makeup done for everyday and makeup for when you are going to be photographed a lot. Our artists are experts in getting everyone’s makeup how they want it but how it’s going to photograph as well.”

Cobb Life readers aren’t the only ones bestowing Three-13 and its employees with the ‘best’ title. The salon/spa and its staff have received countless awards and accolades in its 43 years of business.

In those decades, they have also formed strong bonds with their clients and community. In addition to giving back by donating to various schools and charities, each year the salon hosts Angels of Life, a fundraiser for Georgia Transplant Foundation.

“The environment that Lester, Marian and Tony created over the last 43 years is what keeps our guests coming back,” said Christina Herrera, director of operations. “We have over 40,000 clients in our computer database and that says a lot about a business to keep and retain that many clients ... it is because of the way we treat our guests and the added value that we put into the service to make it like no other experience.”

With services that range from haircuts to nails to waxing to facials to massage and body treatments, Three-13 is a one-stop shop for many beauty and wellness needs.

“We try to be there for every single [salon and spa] need our clients have,” Marian said. “I love helping people look their best; it’s very rewarding to do someone’s hair and makeup and have them say ‘this is the prettiest I’ve ever been.’”

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Best Fine Dining Seed Kitchen & Bar 1311 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 504, Marietta 678-214-6888 www.eatatseed.com When chef-owner Doug Turbush first conceptualized Seed Kitchen & Bar, his vision was of a quaint little bistro in his own backyard. But, since opening the doors to rave reviews back in 2011, this East Cobb staple has evolved into a high-volume behemoth. One thing, however, hasn’t changed with the restaurant’s popularity: its focus on local, seasonal and artisanal ingredients in the kitchen and at the bar.

Although the menu rotates seasonally, with upcoming winter tweaks adjusting for heartier dishes and more comfort food, there is some standard fare that never changes and keeps patrons coming back for more. Items like the super shareable white corn grit fritters with jalapeño pepper jelly and Thomasville tomme will start your meal off right, while the ever-fashionable and delicious pan roasted blue cod with caramelized Brussel sprouts, cauliflower and Thai herb vinaigrette is a consummate crowd favorite.

Turbush already was well known for his creative, award-winning approach to cuisine before opening Seed, so it should come as no surprise that his first solo venture has garnered numerous accolades, including this year’s Best Fine Dining honors. Stop into this neighborhood eatery for high quality fare served up with a smile, and don’t miss Stem Wine Bar next door or Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar down the street for more of Turbush’s signature culinary style.

From left, Seed owner Dave Turbish along with bar manager Dave Peek and kitchen manager John Flagello.

home décor 3894 Due West Road #245 • Marietta 30064

770-422-7500 • www.julepshomedecor.com Store Hours: Mon.- Sat. 10am-5pm • Closed Sun.

ANNUA L CLEARA NCE

SALE

Interior Design Services • Custom Window Treatments Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Fine Upholstery Accessories • Silk & Dried Floral Arrangements Unique Art, Furniture, Rugs & Lamps

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Best Dessert Miss Mamie’s 156 Roswell St., Marietta www.missmamie.com 678-290-9811 Although her name has been synonymous with delicious and unique cupcakes since winning Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars” in 2012, Mamie Doyle of Miss Mamie’s bakery has more recently been receiving acclaim for her true love – custom cakes.

Mamie and her crew were featured in June 2016 on the Cooking Channel’s “Cake Hunters,” in which bakers compete to design the perfect wedding cake for engaged couples.

On the show, Mamie and her team took the concept of one of the shop’s most popular cupcakes, Guinness, up a notch. The delightful dessert is chocolate and salted caramel infused with — you guessed it — Guinness, the stout beer. The wedding cake featured the same flavors with beers hidden inside a beautiful, flowery, shimmery five-feet-tall cake (yes, we’re talking full cans in a secret compartment, a surprise for the groom. You can watch the episode “Tiers of Beers” on cookingchanneltv.com).

While the world is taking notice of Miss Mamie’s through various media channels, the bakery has been no secret to Cobb Countians since Mamie and her brother Ross Doyle opened the bakery in 2009 on the Marietta Square. People from all over metro Atlanta flock to their shop daily to devour the freshly-baked desserts, including pies, tarts, cheesecakes and cookies, as well as the cupcakes. Crowd favorites are the aforementioned Guinness cupcake, the coconut lemon cupcake, pistachio cookie, strawberry cheesecake and fruit tart. Seasonal favorites, like the gingerbread cupcake, also don’t last long on the shelf. Those with a gluten intolerance and sweet tooth need not despair – you may call a day ahead and special order, or stop by on Saturdays, when they have gluten-free options.

Mamie’s desserts are touted for their unique and gourmet flavors, such as butterscotch oatmeal cookies, bacon-specked cupcakes or peach-basil cake (there are ample traditional flavors also, if that’s what your taste buds prefer). The desserts are all beautifully presented in the charming shop on the Square. An art major before studying at Le Cordon Bleu, Mamie’s artistic flair—and her love of designing—really shines in the custom cake creations.

“One of the things I love most is that I have a craft in which I get to be creative every day and work with my hands,” she said.

She also appreciates the sense of the community and small-town feel in Marietta. She enjoys being a part of celebrating milestones. For one local couple, she made a bachelorette cake, and then the wedding cake, and then a cake for a baby shower, and then the child’s first birthday, and so on.

“It’s nice to see familiar faces every day and one of the most rewarding things in what I do is growing with families,” she said.

“That’s important to me.”

A sense of family is also important in her bakery. She praises her dedicated staff, who are happy to stay up with her until 4 a.m. completing an 11,000 Christmas cookie order for a local church.

“That was a whirlwind,” she said, “but my team are hardcore.

They won’t leave until the last cookie is done.”

January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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Best Jeweler Cumberland Diamond Exchange 2800 Cumberland Blvd. SE, Smyrna 770-434-4367 www.cumberlanddiamond.com

From left, Melissa, Mark and Rhonda Jacobson with Prentice Johnson.

What began in 1982 as a small loose diamond and engagement ring specialist with only two employees working out of a rented showroom has evolved into a multi-award winning, family-owned community jeweler housed in a freestanding 4,800-square-foot showroom. Today, Cumberland Diamond Exchange, owned by husband and wife team Mark and Rhonda Jacobson, offers loose diamonds, stone settings, bridal jewelry, designer jewelry, custom design (using one of the few CAD CAMs available in metro Atlanta), corporate gifts, in-house repair and resizing, estate consultations and appraisals and more.

Cumberland Diamond Exchange is among the top five percent of jewelers in the country and its team, including daughter Melissa who works as the company’s marketing manager, is no stranger to high praise. This is their second Cobb Life win, and they also have been awarded numerous other accolades, including the coveted 24 Karat Club Southeastern United States 2016 Jeweler of the Year and Cobb Chamber 2015 Small Business of the Year.

With three graduate gemologists on staff, the CDE family is well known for its five-star relational service style, high-quality inventory and overall business excellence, but they also give graciously of their time and resources to more than 40 local nonprofits. As Rhonda, who sits on the boards of both the WellStar Foundation and the YWCA of Northwest Georgia, says, “When you’re blessed, you bless others.”

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Best Golf Course Governors Towne Club 4200 Governors Towne Drive, Acworth 770-529-5455 www.governorstowneclub.com/ The No. 1 handicap hole on the Governor Towne Club golf course in Acworth is the 4th. Your downhill drive on the dogleg left must miss the left bunkers and shape left to avoid going thru the fairway. Once the drive is positioned, you’ll be playing uphill to a three-tiered green with bunkers on the right. But miss the green, and the challenge of getting up and down proves difficult. Governor Towne’s head PGA golf pro Roger Cherico calls it the most difficult hole on a course filled with multiple “best” holes.

With holes flanked by a majestic forest of giant hardwoods and pines, Governors Towne Club’s 7,250yard tournament course features dramatic elevation changes, cascading creeks, unmatched Bentgrass greens and high flashed white sand in the bunkers enhances the striking aesthetic quality of its tournament grade presentation. The Curtis Strange design affords players the opportunity to be challenged regardless of their skill levels.

“Our superb conditioning, exceptional service and playability is unmatched in the Cobb area,” Cherico says. “The variety in design allows players to use every club in their bag.”

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January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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[TRAVEL]

Words and Photography by Jennifer Carter

Alabama Dreaming (on such a Winter’s Day)

If the frigid winter temps are making you blue and your family’s bout with cabin fever has morphed into a virtual epidemic, fret not: there’s sanctuary residing just over the state line.

Shockingly close to the Atlanta ‘burbs (only six hours by car and 1.5 hours by air!), the sugary white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast are waiting to soothe your soul and brighten your blahs. The weather might still be a mite chilly outside, but there’s no better time to cozy up to the fireside and plan your next holiday for you and your favorite flip flops or strappy sandals.

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relax

Just for a moment, imagine this: 32 miles of soft sand and lapping waves…and your seaside accommodations mere steps from them…and fresh seafood paired with paradise-inspired libations just steps from those. This is the magic that awaits in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.

I found myself there by some lucky twist of traveler’s fate this past May, and I realized that in all my childhood years of living in Alabama in the early 80s (please don’t do the math), I had somehow never heard about this place. My mother had always packed our boogey boards, water wings, bologna sandwiches and cold Dr. Peppers into the car and carted us to those overcrowded beaches in Florida. But how could we have not known about the Alabama Gulf Coast? Perhaps because those Alabamians were just great at keeping secrets, but it’s safe to say that the secret’s out now in Cobb County.

And I’ll let you in on another little secret.

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There is nothing — NOTHING — in this world as transporting for an inland city dweller than that first shock of salty air hitting your nostrils as you near the ocean with the windows rolled down, or more exuberant than that first wash of frothy waves over your feet when you are drawn into that surf like a magnet. The water somehow brings you back to your natural state, and that state is peace.

My suitcase was not even unpacked but tossed into a corner of my Phoenix VII beach side condo as I threw open the sliding glass door to my balcony. Lines of brilliant, cobalt blue umbrellas dotted the shoreline beneath me, their inhabitant sunbathers reading and (gasp!) relaxing. A lone parasailer went floating by like a colorful mirage, suspended above the water by the sheer will of bright fabric and sea air. And me. I lost no time in ditching my shoes and running (okay, rapidly speed-walking) to that very sand that, less than three minutes before, had been that captivating view from a few floors up.

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January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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explore: by land and sea 50

I know it’s quite unlikely, but if you ever tire of all that relaxing and “me-time,” Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer numerous ways to divert your attentions. I often say in jest that “I want to travel so far away that the birds look different,” and in this case, I was not disappointed. In fact, there were many options to experience the various forms of wildlife in the area.

Avid animal lovers and those traveling with children cannot miss the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Nicknamed the “little zoo that could,” it houses over 500 exotic animals including lions, tigers, bears, primates, leopards, and wolves. And take heed of this cuteness alert: they also offer staff-supervised encounters with baby kangaroos, lemurs and sloths. When they placed a dozing baby kangaroo in my arms, I felt downright maternal. My heart melted even further when I got to feed that slow moving sloth. (Insider tip: Hilarity ensues if you decide to wear a long dress into the lemur enclosure. They are endearingly curious animals and they sometimes like to hide playfully in the folds, giving one quite a shock but a funny story to tell later.)

If boating through the bayou is more your speed, be sure to check out a narrated nature tour aboard Sailaway Charter’s covered pontoon.

Captain Skip Beebee, a former clock repairman, guides guests through Longs Bayou and Wolf Bay while acquainting you with oysters, blue crabs, shrimp, and a variety of fish and birds that are

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indigenous to the area. And if you’re very lucky, as I was, you’ll catch a glimpse of Mr. Friendly, a locally famous 50year old dolphin who likes to surface to bid you “hello.” This boat ride is suitable for nature lovers of all ages.

For those with penchant for the romantic, nothing beats watching the sun disappear behind the waves from the upper deck of the Sail Wild Hearts catamaran. The welcoming staff keeps their guests laughably entertained, hoola-hooping with dexterity despite the rocking boat. (They’ll even let you join in if it’s your birthday.) They provide bottled water and light hors d’oeurvres for the chartered two-hour sunset trip, though you can bring your own cooler with beverages.

And for those desiring another kind of “wildlife viewing” all together, the annual Hangout Music Fest, scheduled for May 19-21, is an ever-growing force to be reckoned with. The ultimate beach concert, the festival held adjacent to the Hangout restaurant in Gulf Shores offers revelers the opportunity to hear music from their favorite bands while still planting their toes in the sand. At press time, acts such as Mumford & Sons and Weezer were already set to headline for this spring.

(For a full lineup and ticket prices, check www.hangoutmusicfest.com.)

Insider Tip: If you can afford the Super VIP Tickets, you’ll enjoy such amenities as gourmet food in an air-conditioned dining room and hot tub seating next to the Main Stage.

Seriously.

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where to indulge:

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

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The wealth of fresh seafood in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is unparalleled, and the eateries in the area are extremely adept at delighting travelers’ culinary senses. Here are a few of my favorite places for their food and ambience.

Cobalt, the Restaurant

28099 Perdido Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 www.cobaltrestaurant.net Cobalt’s fabulous outdoor patio with fountains and palm trees beckons you outside to enjoy a glass of wine and fine dining while watching the yachts pass you by.

The Hangout

101 East Beach Blvd.

Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 www.thehangout.com Not just famous for its annual concert, The Hangout restaurant is also known for its beachy cuisine. I was quite smitten with their superb burger selection and fun atmosphere (they actually have an adult-sized bubble machine to run through).

Lulu’s

202 East 25th Ave. Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542

www.lulubuffett.com Touted as an establishment based on the ideals of “escapism and family fun,” Lulu’s is renowned for both their burgers and totally legit margaritas, both blended and on the rocks. The Cadillac Margarita will become a Gulf Shores tradition on subsequent trips.

Interesting sidenote: Lulu (Lucy Anne Buffett) is actually singer Jimmy Buffett’s little sister, so you know that this place keeps fun close at hand.

Voyagers at Perdido Key Resort 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 www.perdidobeachresort.com

Executive chef Brody Olive has made Voyagers a must-visit while in Orange Beach. Their menu consists of sustainable seafood, vegetables from local farms and natural organic meats and a stellar wine list. And the panoramic view of the Alabama Gulf Coast can’t be beat.

Tip: For beefeaters, try the PBR filet mignon with a glass of red and for seafood lovers, try the grilled swordfish.

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where to stay: what to do:

Brett Robinson Vacations has a healthy array of beachfront and bayfront properties. (The Phoenix VII condos are my favorite for beach access.)

Can’t possibly wait until spring break? Be sure to check for winter rates. www.Brett-Robinson.com

Sail Wild Hearts

27200 Perdido Beach Blvd. (Hwy. 182) Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 251-981-6700 www.sailwildhearts.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 251-968-5732 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Sailaway Charters

24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 251-974-5055 www.sailorskip.com

January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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[KEEPING UP WITH KATY RUTH] It was a Merry-etta Christmas for me!

For the past year-and-a-half, I called Ponce City Market in Atlanta my home. I was one of the first residents to live in the rent-only lofts and it was magical to watch the community open and blossom one store, restaurant and bridge at a time.

But, although I loved being five floors above one of the most incredible and important developments in Atlanta’s history, Marietta still felt like my home.

My job is here, many of my friends are here, my nonprofit work is here and I began to feel as though I was a part of this Cobb community in every way possible except for where I lain my head at night.

So, with my lease coming up for renewal at the end of November, I began house-hunting in Cobb with the help of the broker and realtor tag team Katy Ruth extraordinaire of Mary Ansley Southerland and Camp Wendy Bunch, respectively. My “Mama Bears,” as they called themselves, helped me each step of the way through finding, securing and closing on a wonderful townhouse off of the Marietta Square that is just perfect for me, along with a perfect two-mile commute to work!

Although my commitment to the Cobb community has never waned, I am excited to now be a Cobb citizen. Celebrating the holidays within walking distance to all of the many galas, parties and celebrations is a memory I am happy to continue creating.

Make the Pilgrimage

If you skipped last year’s Marietta Pilgrimage Tour of Homes, you

missed out on some truly beautiful pieces of living history. Each year, a handful of historic and/or unique homes in the Marietta community are chosen for the highly-anticipated pilgrimage. The weekend kicks off with a gala on Friday night, day tours on Saturday and Sunday and a special candlelight tour on Saturday evening.

This year’s gala was held at the magical headquarters of Traton Homes on Kennesaw Avenue and Johnny Sinclair donned his usual “Hello, Holidays!” suit. Last year’s was blue with snowflakes but this year, Johnny opted for more festive flair with a red plaid suit that could be spotted a stone’s throw away. Katie Peterson, the queen bee of the pilgrimage, wore royalty purple and managed the event and weekend with her usual humor, smile and commitment. The tent just outside of the building’s doors was filled with dancing, live music and lots of laughter. It was a cold but wonderful night and a great way to kick off the tour.

This year, Laura Bottoms Higginbotham asked me to be the house chair for the Kennesaw Avenue home she owns with her husband, Bryan, daughter Mary Evelyn and golden retriever Lily Belle. I have volunteered at the Bistro before but never at a house, so I was excited to be the front porch storyteller for the Holland-Higginbotham home, but also wasn’t sure what to expect. How many grouchy tour-goers would I have to subdue? Do I have to memorize the script?

WHAT IF THERE IS NO COFFEE? Luckily, my Saturday morning/afternoon shift went swimmingly and I loved sharing the history of their beautiful home with the thousands of people who marched up its marble steps to view it. Allison Giddens manned the foyer as we partnered to get people out of the cold quickly and efficiently. As I was telling the history to a crowd of

Weekday Ministry Preschool & Kindergarten at First United Methodist Church of Marietta

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tourists early that morning (which I found was memorized after about the tenth time of telling it), my father dropped coffee and breakfast at my feet. He quickly shuffled away but not before I was able to embarrass him by announcing that he was my dad and was graciously bringing me a coffee and biscuit, which brought laughter and applause from the crowd.

And did you spot Brian Buckalew on his Marietta Pedicab? Brian bicycled tour-goers from the bistro at the Marietta Educational Garden Center to the homes like a champ, although some of us at the bistro might have shared a few laughs at the sight of him having to wheel his pedicab up the Garden Center’s enormous hill time and time again. I don’t know how he does it, but he makes it look easy!

It was a beautiful morning at a beautiful home in this beautiful city and I highly recommend you start the 2017 holiday season with this year’s tour.

Is Black Friday dead?

Did you make it out of your pj’s and house for Black Friday this year? I was covering the year’s biggest shopping day for the Marietta Daily Journal and set out around 6:30 a.m. for what I thought would be large crowds searching for even bigger deals. Instead, I found that most places I went were just as or perhaps a bit busier than usual and there wasn’t a terse, impatient line to be found.

Cassie Mazloom and some others mentioned Town Center at Cobb was periodically busy, while others said Target and many of the major retailers had their busiest hours on Thanksgiving.

Still, it seems the growing popularity of online shopping and Black Friday deals that span the whole month of November have put a damper on the Black Friday storms of the past. I, for one, was happy to spend Thanksgiving with my family without worrying about that storm and would gladly retire to my pj’s and a fire instead.

New Year What are your New Year’s resolutions? I made a commitment when I moved to make 2017 the year of improving my health, finishing my novel and traveling more often. So, if by this time next year I am 20 pounds lighter, a published novelist and a passport full of stamps, you’ll know I met my goals.

Now, where did I put that bag of Skittles…

Do you have an event you’d like Katy Ruth Camp to cover? Just email her at krcamp@cobblifemagazine.com

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[HIGHLIGHTS] A CLOSER LOOK AT EVENTS HAPPENING IN COBB DURING JANUARY & FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 3-11

FEBRUARY 10-26

ATLANTA BALLET’S CARMINA BURANA

The lush possibilities in life and pleasures of the flesh challenge the resolve of young seminary students in this modern retelling of the classic parable (the original text hails from the 11 or 12th century). “O Fortuna” is the song that most audiences recognize even if they are not familiar with the show. A bold night of dance and music featuring the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra and the Georgia State University Master Singers. Choreographed

by David Bintley, with music by Carl Orff. Recommended for age 12 and older. When and where: Feb 3-11: 7:30 p.m.; Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets: $20-$128 plus fees at atlantaballet.com/tickets, Ticketmaster outlets, by phone, online or at Cobb Energy Centre box office. Parking: $6 self park, $8 pre-pay option, $10 valet (cash or credit card). More info: 800-745-3000 or 770-916-2852 or cobbenergycentre.com.

FEBRUARY 11 & 12

JANUARY 23

A charming, child-friendly one hour ballet about the adventures of a young heroine, her prince charming and how they escape the clutches of that oh-so-evil queen. When and where: Feb 11-12: 2 p.m.; Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Tickets: start at $10 at atlantaballet.com/tickets, Ticketmaster outlets, by phone, online or at Cobb Energy Centre box office. Parking: $6 self park, $8 pre-pay option, $10 valet (cash or credit card).

More info: 800-745-3000 or 770-916-2852 or cobbenergycentre.com.

Wright is the senior lecturer of jazz studies and jazz guitar at KSU and presents an evening of guitar music infused with sax and several guest players. When and where: Jan. 23; 8 p.m.; Morgan Hall, Bailey Performing Center, Kennesaw State University. Tickets: free event.

More info: 470-578-6252 or www.kennesaw. edu

SNOW WHITE

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TREY WRIGHT, GUITAR, “SOME OF MY BEST FRIENDS ARE SAXOPHONISTS”

THE MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

Rockin’ and rollin’ musical that features the tunes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. Fantastic, yes, but not a fantasy. It actually happened on Dec. 4, 1956, when the four then-young musicians gathered for a jam session at Sun Records in Memphis. Presented by the Atlanta Lyric Theatre.

When and where: Feb. 10-26, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.; Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, Marietta. Tickets: $33-$58. More info: 404377-9948 or atlantalyrictheatre.com

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JANUARY 12-15

SHEN YUN CONNECTING HEAVEN AND EARTH

Chinese dance and 5,000-year-old culture on dazzling display complete with orchestra, costumes and animated backdrops. The troupe’s stories about connecting heaven and earth are about heroes and emperors, dragons and immortals from “the land of the divine,” known today as China. When and where: Jan. 12 – 15; Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7: 30 p.m.; Saturday matinee 2 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.; Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets: $70 - $200 plus fees at Ticketmaster outlets, by phone, online or at Cobb Energy Centre box office. Parking: $6 self park, $8 pre-pay option, $10 valet (cash or credit card). More info: 800-745-3000 or 770-916-2852 or cobbenergycentre.com.

JANUARY 21

THE BLUES BROTHERS REVUE

Did they get the band back together? Looks like it. The rowdy song and dance catalog of Jake and Elwood Blues (aka The Blues Brothers) comes to life in the only show of its kind sanctioned by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi (the widow of John Belushi.) Legendary footsteps, indeed. When and where: Jan. 21; 8 p.m.; Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, Cobb County Civic Center Complex, Marietta. Tickets: $30 plus fees available through Ticketmaster. More info: 770-528-8490.

JANUARY 25

THE BEACH BOYS

In the bleak midwinter, enjoy a few hours of an endless summer only one musical group can provide. From “California Girls” to “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” the west coast hit makers have been dishing up harmonic anthems of fair weather and youth for 50-plus years. Sunny hits and good vibrations guaranteed. Bring the ‘tweens and amaze them with how you know every lyric. When and where: Jan. 25: 7:30 p.m.; Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets: $46 - $86 plus fees at Ticketmaster outlets, by phone, online or at Cobb Energy Centre box office. Parking: $6 self park, $8 pre-pay option, $10 valet (cash or credit card). More info: 800.745.3000 or 770.916.2852 or cobbenergycentre.com.

FEBRUARY 18

AMERICA, VOL. 1

Presented by the Georgia Symphony Orchestra, this is the first in a multi-year series of concerts honoring American classical music. Featuring Hanson, Barber, and of course, Copland. When and where: Feb. 18 at 8 p.m.; Marietta Performing Center, 1171 Whitlock Ave. Tickets: $10-$25 More info: georgiasymphony.org.

Do you have an event? Just email Therra C. Gwyn at WhatsHappeningGa@gmail.com

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HOME OF THE BRAVES

5 The Kennesaw Business Association hosted newly appointed Atlanta Braves Manager Brian Snitker at its Nov. 8 luncheon. It was Snitker’s first appearance in Cobb County since becoming the manager. SunTrust Park, the new home of the Atlanta Braves, is set to open right here in Cobb County for the 2017 MLB season. 1. From left, Melania and Jim Saltarella and Tracy Viars. 2. From left, Wayne Dodd, Cobb County Chairman-elect Mike Boyce and Cobb County Commissioner Bob Weatherford. 3. Mike Linch and Ray Baker. 4. Bernard Faulk and Jonathan Boyd. 5. Brian Snitker. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

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6. From left, Ron Roger, Matt Griffin and Mike Sansing. 7. From left, Dave Birrell along with his wife, Cobb County Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, and Ardythe Ball. 8. From left, David and Deborah Kapchinske and Terry Brennan. 9. Brian Snitker. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

Dr. Boland McCamy

Dr. Boland McCamy receives this striking photograph (shot in Antarctica) from Mr. Shae Avery of the Avery Gallery on Roswell Street in Marietta. The photograph is titled “The Sleeper� and was shot and printed by the well-known adventure-travel photographer, Scott McQuarrie.

Dr. McCamy has a strong interest in Antarctica because he has travelled extensively there, including the Falkland Islands, aboard a small ice class ship under the auspices of the Smithsonian Institute in Washington. Shortly after his departure from the Falkland Islands, war erupted between Argentina and England over control of the territory. The conflict lasted 10 weeks and approximately 1,000 died.

January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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[WHAT’S INSIDE]

Best Of 30 You voted, here are the winners of this year’s Best Of Cobb!

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departments 18 HOME This used to be a garage?

24 HEALTH Super smoothies to boost your mood and metabolism this winter 48 TRAVEL Alabama Dreaming

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in every issue FROM THE DIRECTOR

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NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

10

KID-FRIENDLY COBB

12

WORTH WATCHING

15

IN MY CORNER

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KEEPING UP WITH KATY RUTH 54

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HIGHLIGHTS

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PARTING SHOT

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6 MARIETTA PILGRIMAGE TOUR GALA. The Marietta Pilgrimage Tour Gala took place in December at Traton Homes headquarters. The event was a preview party to the annual tour of homes. 1. From left, Claire Francis, Marcell David and Rudye

Woodruff. 2. Venneta and Ron Montgomery. 3. Patricia Koutouzis and Joyce Heinold. 4. From left, Meg and Tobin Chapman along with Jennifer and Nick Tucker. 5. From left, Jim Corley, Abbie Parks and Carolyn Corley. 6. From left, Connie Kirk along with Judy and Phil Ownens. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

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FOOT & ANKLE

SPECIALISTS 10

• Podiatric & Diabetic Clinic • Physical Therapy Department Dr. Glyn E. Lewis Dr. Dan Howard Dr. Matthew G. Butler Physical Therapist

• Corrective Surgery for Bunions and other Foot Deformities • Sports Injuries

13 7. From left, Jerry and Tracey Pattenaude along with Chad and Dawn Benton. 8. Sherry Freedman and Cindy Woodward. 9. Stace Huff and Johnny Sinclaire. 10. From left, Judge Greg Poole and his wife Lucia Poole along with Fran Smith. 11. Jim Glover and Alice Summerour. 12. Carly Harden and Matthew Cain. 13. From left, Catherine and Chris Brown along with David Freedman. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GRAY CANTRELL //

Marietta Podiatry Group

165 Vann Street | Marietta, GA 770-422-9856 www.mariettapodiatrygroup.com

Bring this ad for a 10% discount on laser nail procedure January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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EVENING OF ART. The Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art held an evening of holiday fellowship on Dec. 1. 1. Jackie Garvin and

Leigh Ann Worden. 2. From left, Beverly Kelly, Alan and Ann Watkins and Paul and Pril Buege. 3. From left, Carrie Rodgers, Crystal Williams and Kristen Sugg. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHRYN INGALL //

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4. Pedro Ayestaran and Jeff Chandler. 5. From left, Emily Collette, Richard Maher and Rachel Tunnicliffe. 6. From left, Yvonne Portwood, Melinda Heidt and Terri Cole. 7. Dot Dunaway and Perk Lawrence. 8. Shirley Deering and Joy Mathews. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHRYN INGALL //

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770-428-6491 380 Roswell St., S.E. Marietta, GA January/February 2017 | Cobb Life

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COBB YOUNG PROFESSIONALS. The Cobb Young Professionals held their holiday social/ugly Christmas sweater party at the Brickyard on the Square in December. 1. Zach Ewanis and Ericka White. 2. Seth Coale, Kevin Hyland and Jordan Wilson. 3. Maddie Nachtmann and Allison Branch. 4. Isaac Trotter. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER CARTER //

Brought to you by

Parents and students can nominate a teacher through our online nomination form.

The Marietta Daily Journal Staff will select a winner from the nominations we receive each week and will present that winner with an iPad. A photo of the teacher and the students will appear in the newspaper each week.

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5. Sabrina Mallett and Gurleen Roberts. 6. From left, Megan Stambaugh, Kevin Hyland, Marty Heller, Ashley Hungerford and Liz Campbell. 7.

Bonnie Folker and Sarah Fanninger. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER CARTER //

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[PARTING SHOT]

After a record-breaking 43 days without rain in Cobb County, we finally got a dose of precipitation in late November. Photo/Images Editor Kelly J. Huff was out early using his macro lens looking for the perfect backdrop to shoot through the raindrops on his truck window. Huff caught this lovely image at 6:45 a.m. outside the Marietta Daily Journal office, using a weather app on his mobile phone, as a backdrop.

The reflections of local cities are magnified through the raindrops as the green, yellow and some red weather bands moved through Cobb County. >>>Photographed by Kelly J. Huff<<< 66

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[FROM THE DIRECTOR]

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Winter Blues Hues

BY MARK WALLACE MAGUIRE

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wrote a column roughly a dozen years ago about how much I disliked winter. Needless to say, it wasn’t the type of column to spur gracious emails, kind phone calls or heartfelt letters. I suppose for those who do like winter, it was an easy stab at a ready-made target and for those who dislike winter it was a statement of the obvious.

Since then, I’ve worked to refocus and recalibrate my thoughts on winter. The bottom line is, it is here. We’re living in it and unless you possess unlimited funds to escape south for three months, we all have to cope with the sullen skies, faded grass and short, sun-dulled days. So, instead of sinking into the seasonal mire, here are a few thoughts on the things I have learned to love and embrace about the season.

1. Sunsets: Poets and paupers alike can wax lyrically about a sunset over an ocean, but if you truly want to see the best sunsets, winter in The South is the prime setting. The air is crisp and clear and visibility is not hampered by humidity. The trees are naked, their limbs stripped bare providing a larger vista of the sky. And there is something as well that I can’t put my finger on – perhaps something in the clouds or angle of the sun striking the planet this time of year – that produces some dramatic closes to the end of every day. Summer evenings may trump winter with its long, languid never-ending dusk, but as far as short beautiful burst, winter is the champ.

2.Lunchtime strolls: If you see a large, strange man wearing a tie, hat and tennis shoes tramping through one of Cobb’s parks at lunch, it is probably me. I relish a winter walk at lunch. A walk is good for stress, to clear the mind, for health and – as with this column – for creating new ideas for the magazine. As much as I

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enjoy stretching my legs for a bit mid-day in the open air, it is not a practice one can engage in year-round. The brutal humidity of spring or summer doesn’t provide a conducive setting for such activities and one is generally confined to the gym or the desk.

But winter afternoons are great for getting out. Bundle up. Get the blood flowing. And, yeah, that rarity called sunshine doesn’t hurt the serotonin level either.

3.A book, a fire and a cat: My wife gives me a hard time on occasion as many things I said I would never do in life, I now do.

I said I would never get married, never own a house, never have kids, own a pet and so forth. Now, I find few things as sublime in life as sitting on the couch in front of a fire, a cat on my lap, a son at my side and a book in my hand. And, of course, there is one time you can really do that: Winter.

4.Yard projects: Ah, the grass and shrubs are in hibernation.

The leaves have hopefully been all raked and are disintegrating into a wonderful mulch for the spring. Now is the time to do that fancy pruning or build a rock wall. Or, if you desire, to simply look at the yard and give thanks that you aren’t out in the heat working in it. The last few years I lean toward the latter though I hope to correct that this January with a handful of projects that are overdue.

5. Soups and stews: My talents in the kitchen continue to decimate each year the longer I am married. However, I can still whip up a great stew or batch of soup. If my wife bakes some homemade bread, matching the two together is a sublime way to wrap up a cold day outdoors. Summers are prime time for the grill, but you can’t beat a hearty stew in the winter. Stews are also great for leftovers and giving mama a night off from the kitchen.

Here’s to wishing you the best this season.

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