Cobb Life Jan-Feb 2018

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Published by The Marietta Daily Journal January/February 2018

Staying mindful for the New Year p.20

An afternoon on the Marietta Food Tour p.16 CL JAN-FEB 2018 1 1

Cobb’s Best dining, decor & entertainment spots are featured inside! p.30 *Including this cover locale, Kennesaw Mountain 12/26/2017 10:27:06 AM

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Cobb County’s destination for specialized pediatrics

We have been a proud part of this community for more than 20 years.

Beginning Feb. 6, 2018, we are expanding Children’s at Town Center by opening a new outpatient care center. This facility will provide families access to more pediatric specialists, an expanded sports medicine gym, outpatient rehab, and orthotics and prosthetics. These services will join our existing urgent care and radiology offerings on this campus. ©2018 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

Visit choa.org/breakingnewgroundinCobb for more information.

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12/21/2017 11:02:34 AM

4 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

770 Arborist..................................................................... 29 Acorn Home & Garden.................................................. 39 Amazon Tickets............................................................... 11 Apple For Teacher Contest............................................. 55 Aqua Guard Basements.................................................. 62 Atlanta Communities...................................................... 51 Atlanta Fine Homes ....................................................... 26 Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology...................................... 45 Atlanta West Dermatology............................................. 43 Brawner Hall.................................................................... 33 Brookwood Christian School......................................... 10 Charter Bank Smyrna..................................................... 43 Cheatham Hill.................................................................. 61 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta...................................... 3 Chow King - Smyrna...................................................... 18 Cobb EMC........................................................................ 41 Cobb Hardware................................................................ 64 Cobb Life 2018 Schedule................................................ 55 Creative Solar................................................................... 60 Cumberland Diamond Exchange.................................. 31 Delta Blinds...................................................................... 58 Dermatology Consultants.............................................. 47 Dogwood Forest.............................................................. 47 Fleming Flooring & Design Center.............................. 27 Gaines Park Senior Living ............................................. 28 Georgia Trade School...................................................... 32 Giovannis Restaurant...................................................... 51 Harry Norman - Cobb Marietta.................................... 32 Hillgrove Foundation...................................................... 62 Indy Style Salon............................................................... 40 Johnny Walker Photography.......................................... 56 Julep’s Home Décor......................................................... 26

Kennesaw State Univeristy............................................. 14 Lavida Massage................................................................ 59 Manders Dental............................................................... 28 Marietta First United Methodist Weekday Ministry.. 56 Marietta Hearing............................................................... 4 Marietta Toyota.................................................................. 9 Mayes Ward - Dobbins Funeral Home......................... 67 Midway Christian Covenant.......................................... 44 Miracle Method............................................................... 54 Nicholas Dixon................................................................ 18 Northside Heart............................................................... 23 Northside Hospital ........................................................... 5 Northside Hospital Ortho & Sports Medicine........... 37 Plastic Surgery Center of the South.............................. 36 Presbyterian Village........................................................ 57 SGM Corporation........................................................... 19 Snappy Home Services.................................................... 54 Sovereign Rehabilitation................................................. 13 Sterling Estates Senior Living........................................ 22 Sterling Estates Senior Living........................................ 22 Superior Plumbing............................................................ 2 Task Anne........................................................................... 6 The Bottoms Group........................................................... 7 The Walker School........................................................... 39 Thornton Dental.............................................................. 50 Three - 13 Salon............................................................... 15 Trackside Grill................................................................. 19 WellStar............................................................................. 68 White Columns Funeral Home..................................... 10 Winnwood Retirement .................................................. 12 Word of Faith Church..................................................... 33

COBB LIFE January/February 2018 Volume 14, Issue 1

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Otis Brumby IIl

GENERAL MANAGER Lee B. Garrett

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Wade Stephens

V.P. OF SALES AND MARKETING Travis Knight

V.P. OF CONTENT J.K. Murphy

EDITORIAL STAFF MAGAZINE COORDINATOR LaTria Garnigan

CONTRIBUTORS

Meredith Pruden, Katy Ruth Camp, Amanda Swartwood

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kelly J. Huff, Erin Gray Cantrell, Johnny Walker

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

LaTria Garnigan, Beth Poirier

ADVERTISING STAFF ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tara Guest

COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER Becky Opitz

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephanie deJarnette, Paula Milton, Jill Abbott, Katelyn Ledford, Ginny Hrushka

GRAPHICS COORDINATOR Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jennifer Hall

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Dave Gossett

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

To subscribe, email circulation@ cobblifemagazine.com or call 770-795-5001 To advertise, contact Travis Knight at 770-428-9411, ext. 510 Send all editorial correspondence to lgarnigan@cobblifemagazine.com www.cobblifemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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12/26/2017 10:27:41 AM

5 WHAT ADVANCED HEART CARE LOOKS LIKE.

Northside Hospital Cherokee was built with a team that is recognized for providing a high level of expertise in treating heart attacks, heart failure and stroke. Right here you have board certified cardiologists, nurses and expert staff to help you survive a heart attack and teach you how to live a healthy life. That’s a lifetime of care. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart.

January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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12/21/2017 12:32:46 PM 12/11/17 4:51 PM

6 WHAT’S INSIDE

24

30

departments

features

20 HEALTH & WELLNESS Quiet your mind and learn some tips to stay on track in the New Year

16 EAT & RUN Marietta Food Tour showcases seven of the Marietta Square’s best eateries

24 HOME In the mood to renovate? Here’s some inspiration to glam up your dining room

30 BEST OF COBB You voted, here’s the annual list of the Best businesses in Cobb County

48 SPICE On the go? Cut your cooking time down to zero with these prepared, healthy meals

52 WINE Even after a fire, the wine region of the U.S. still stands

ON THE COVER: Michael Syrop, of Marietta, and his daughter Rachel, a Walker School graduate and college student at South Carolina with their dog Karma. The father/daughter duo was spotted hiking at Kennesaw Mountain.

in every issue

IN MY CORNER NEWS & NOTEWORTHY KID FRIENDLY COBB WORTH WATCHING KEEPING UP WITH KATY RUTH HIGHLIGHTS SCENE PARTING SHOT 6

8 10 12 14 56 58 60 66

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12/26/2017 10:30:15 AM

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January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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12/21/2017 12:36:18 PM

8 IN MY CORNER

Gettin’ organized...

By LaTria Garnigan

I

was inspired by the feature on mindfulness (p. 20), where we hear from Lisa Wellstead, founder of East Cobb Yoga and Mindfulness about the practice of mindfulness in relation to sticking to your New Year’s resolutions.

It struck a nerve with me as I am someone who is obsessed with organization, planning and making lists. Or rather, the idea of them.

Because to be completely honest, no matter how much money I spend on planners and those cute to-do lists from Target’s dollar spot, I rarely use them.

I even go as far as buying crafting supplies (another obsession) to go along with my planning materials … as a means to get me in the “creative” mood to organize myself and jot down my lists. I mean I JUST received some in the mail two days before writing this. And when it arrived, I opened the envelope, marveled at the supplies and neatly tucked them away in my desk drawer at home.

Now you see why this mindfulness article struck a nerve.

Cleary, I need a new tactic in getting in a clear headspace so that I can accomplish my main goal of being more organized.

Which brings me to New Year’s resolutions. Every year I try to

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whittle my list down as bare as possible as not to overwhelm myself with too many things to accomplish during the year. And this year I’m going even smaller.

My only resolution/goal/directive is to finalize a TRUE organizational system. And I believe incorporating some mindfulness techniques will definitely place me on the path to success in that area. And honestly, once you get a clear organizational style in place, any and everything else you set to accomplish can be achieved almost flawlessly because you’ve laid a concrete foundation to build upon.

So that’s my one true resolution I’m setting for myself in 2018. What’s yours? Write me and let me know. Tell us on social media → @CobbLifeMag. I’d love to hear your feedback.

And until then … I hope you enjoy this issue. *** Thanks to your many votes, we’ve compiled 14 of your Best Cobb businesses in our Best Of Cobb feature — everything from places to eat, take your kids, experience the outdoors and more (p. 30). Also in this issue, we take you on an afternoon with the Marietta Food Tour. Yes, something just for foodies!

And believe me, it was a deliciously fun day (p. 16). You’ll be inspired by a glam dining room makeover (p. 24) and help kick-start your healthy eating journey with Eat Fit Go in Vinings (p. 48).

As always, be blessed and let’s rock 2018!

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Happy Holidays from our Marietta Toyota Family to yours

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Our most popular maintenance services bundled into one Complete Care Package with More Savings for you! Marietta Toyota’s Complete Care Package Service will ensure your vehicle is road trip ready, and includes a Conventional Oil & Filter Change, Tire Rotation, Front Wiper Blades (*Rear Wiper Blades Additional), Engine Air Filter Replacement, Plus a Fuel & Oil Additive! A Savings of over $70 when you choose this bundled service deal!

Keep your Toyota operating right by getting a Synthetic Oil & Filter Change!

Typically (under normal driving conditions), your Toyota will be due for a Synthetic Oil Change every 12,000 miles OR every 12 Months, whichever comes first. Ask your Service Adviser for additional information.

Keep your Toyota operating at peak performance by getting a Conventional Oil and Filter Change! If your Toyota uses Conventional Engine Oil, it will be due for an oil change every 3,000-5000 miles (depending on the year & model) OR 6 Months, whichever comes first. Ask your service adviser for more information on what your vehicle requires.

Synthetic 0W20 Oil 4 Cyl $174.95/ V6 $179.95 / V8 $189.95. Rear Wiper Blade(s) Additional fee. For Toyota models only. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons or discount. One coupon per customer. No cash value. Fees, tax and shop supplies not included. Ends 12/31/2017

For Toyota Models Only. Up to 5 qts of Synthetic Oil. Must present coupon at time of purchase. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons or discount. One coupon per customer. No cash value. Fees, tax and shop supplies not included. Ends 12/31/2017.

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January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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For Toyota Models Only. Up to 5 qts of Conventional Oil. Must present coupon at time of purchase. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons or discount. One coupon per customer. No cash value. Fees, tax and shop supplies not included. Ends 12/31/2017.

12/21/2017 12:41:16 PM

10 [NEWS & NOTEWORTHY] Schlotzsky’s Austin Eatery Cumberland now open

Schlotzsky’s Austin Eatery — 2980 Cobb Parkway, Suite 208 — is an evolution of the brand and rooted in the restaurant’s rich heritage and birthplace — Austin, Texas which comes through in the new menu and atmosphere. The new menu was inspired by the Austin food truck scene. It’s a unique combination of the handcrafted dishes we are known for; plus, exciting, new shareable dishes like sliders, flats and tins.

Don’t worry, the famous sandwich, The Original and freshly baked sourdough bread has been on the menu since 1971 and it’s not going anywhere.

Schlotzsky’s Austin Eatery feels like a local spot in Austin with eclectic décor and unique found objects, materials and textures — that imperfectly just fit. It’s an inspiring restaurant environment that everyone feels welcome in.

Newk’s Eatery opens new Smyrna location Newk’s Eatery, the fast-casual restaurant known for its culinary-driven menu, continues its growth with a new Smyrna location. Newk’s Eatery serves made-from-scratch sandwiches, entrée salads, kettle-batch soups and handcrafted pizzas for lunch and dinner. Every dish is prepared in Newk’s open-view kitchens with premium ingredients, such as petite tenderloin steak, Atlantic salmon, all-white-meat chicken breast and sushi-grade ahi tuna.

The centerpiece of the Newk’s dining room is The Roundtable, where guests customize meals with complimentary condiments and extras, including house-roasted garlic in Italian extra-virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, capers, imported pepperoncini, Torinesi-style breadsticks, hand-cut, house-made croutons and guest favorite bread-and-butter pickles.

Newk’s Eatery | 1405 Spring Road, Smyrna | www.newks.com

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Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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12/21/2017 12:44:27 PM

[NEWS & NOTEWORTHY] Local Cobb resident and business owner to put the boxing gloves back on

presents

JOSH THOMPSON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11TH 7:30 PM On Feb. 17, Eddie Capel, CEO of Manhattan Associates, will return to the boxing ring after a 36-year hiatus to fight a man in his 20s at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

What would compel a 57-year-old tech leader to fight a man half his age in a very public forum? He’ll quite literally be fighting for kids who are fighting incredible odds themselves, combating an epidemic that’s rarely discussed in this country.

A staggering one in 28 kids has a parent that’s incarcerated in this country and of those kids, there’s a 71 percent likelihood that children of incarcerated

parents will follow their parents to prison. Through Brawl for a Cause, Eddie will be raising funds and awareness for Camp Hope, a local, free overnight camp that gives children of incarcerated parents a week filled with love, activities and fellowship designed to show them their greater purpose in life.

Leading up to the event, Eddie will be training at Champs Gym in Marietta and raising funds on his Givebutter page. One hundred percent of funds raised on his GiveButter page — https://givebutter. com/3iljp3 — will go directly to the nonprofit.

Opening Tyler Reese Tritt

Tickets on Sale!

THE KENTUCKY HEADHUNTERS

Marietta Kroger store launches ClickList online ordering for customers The Kroger at 4880 Lower Roswell Road in Marietta has launched ClickList — a service that offers customers the ease of placing orders online and picking up their groceries at a time convenient for them.

Customers can shop for more than 40,000 items on ClickList, including fresh produce, meat and seafood, dairy and frozen products, before selecting a location and time slot most convenient to them. This includes same-day pick-up. Items are delivered to the customer at the pick-up location within minutes of arrival.

Getting started with ClickList is easy. Visit www.kroger. com/clicklist, build a cart, select a pick-up location and time, and then place the order. An associate will carefully choose the items and store them in proper temperature zones until the customer arrives. Kroger will also waive the $4.95 service fee for each customer’s first three orders.

SAT., MARCH 3RD

Opening The Sideburners

117 North Park Square • on the Marietta Square Box Office: 770.293.0080

Tickets: EarlSmithStrand.org CL JAN-FEB 2018 10 11

12/26/2017 10:33:14 AM

12 [KID-FRIENDLY COBB] Hairspray WHAT: Allatoona High School Musical Theatre presents Hairspray, a musical about one girl’s dream to dance.

WHEN: Jan. 24, 7 p.m.; Jan. 25, 8 p.m.; Jan. 26, 7 p.m.; Jan. 27, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Jan. 28, 3 p.m.

WHERE: Allatoona High School, 3300 Dallas Acworth Highway NW, Acworth COST: $12 tickets at the box office

Toddler Mice Tours at the Marietta Museum Of History WHAT: Tours for our tiniest visitors! Come join our Museum mice mascots, Murray & Etta, as they explore the Marietta Museum of History. Mice Tours are guided tours for children ages 3-5 with a parent(s) or guardian(s). These tours allow children to experience a Museum at a young age through shapes, colors, sounds, and more. January’s theme will be Murray’s Favorite Games!

WHEN: Jan. 10, 10:30 a.m. to 11: 15 a.m.

WHERE: Marietta Museum of History, 1 Depot St., Marietta COST: $5 per family (one adult and up to three children) INFO: To reserve your spot, call 770-794-5710.

WHEN: Now through Jan. 14 WHERE: The Battery Atlanta INFO: 404-494-1150, batteryatl.com

Atlanta Ballet 2 presents ‘Beauty & the Beast’ WHAT: Fall in love with this celebrated fairy tale all over again with a one-hour production designed for our younger audience members, children ages 12 and under. Your family will be mesmerized by this enchanting tale of adventure, unlikely friendships, and the power of true love!

WHEN: Feb. 8, 7 p.m.; Feb. 10, 2 p.m.; Feb. 11, 2 p.m.

WHERE: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway INFO: www.cobbenergycentre.com, 770-916-2800

Family fun at The Battery Atlanta WHAT: Only a week left to experience Holidays at The Battery Atlanta. Visit soon before it ends for Atlanta’s newest ice skating rink and more for families and adults.

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We’re social!

We know you love to hold us in your hands, but did you know we’re also on the Web — Facebook, Instagram and Twitter —> @CobbLifeMag? Check us out, follow us and get exclusive content and behind the scenes photos and more!

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

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4800 Olde Towne Parkway, Suite 130, Marietta, GA 30068 770-485-3045 SovereignRehab.com

Affiliated with

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12/21/2017 12:49:29 PM

14 Worth Watching Welcome to 2018! If you’re looking for something new to get into, check out my list of the top shows and movies that will be out in January and February. Compiled by LaTria Garnigan “grown-ish” Premiered Jan. 3, 8 p.m. on Freeform Wednesday’s comedy block kicks off with “grown-ish,” a half-hour comedy tackling current social issues and complexities facing both students and administrators. It follows Zoey (Yara Shahidi), Dre (Anthony Anderson) and Rainbow’s (Tracee Ellis Ross) popular, entitled, stylish and socially active 17-year-old daughter from ABC’s Emmy-nominated comedy “black-ish,” as she heads into her freshman year of college. The cast includes Trevor Jackson as Aaron Jackson, Jordan Buhat as Vivek Shah, Emily Arlook as Nomi Segal, Francia Raisa as Ana Torres, Chris Parnell as Dean Parker and Deon Cole as Charlie Telphy. Chloe Bailey, Halle Bailey and Luka Sabbat also recur in the series.

‘grown-ish’

Making a star “The Four: Battle for Stardom” Jan. 4, 8 p.m. on Fox

Fox’s new singing competition series, “The Four: Battle for Stardom,” debuted Jan. 4. The show’s panel of experts include Grammy Award-winning musician, record producer and songwriter Sean “Diddy” Combs, record-producing hit-maker DJ Khaled, Grammy-winning recording artist and songwriter Meghan Trainor and record label executive Charlie Walk. These panelists are true star-makers and are responsible for some of the biggest hits and recording artists in the music industry today. In the competition, four top-notch singers, spanning all music genres, will fight each week to defend their coveted seats on the show, as determined newcomers challenge them and try to knock them out of the competition. The singer who is the last standing at the end of the competition will earn the ultimate prize: the panel of industry experts becomes key players on the winner’s team. This elite group of star makers will guide the winner’s career to help make him or her a breakout star.

Taraji P. Henson is Mary, a hitwoman working for an organized crime family in Boston, whose life is completely turned around when she meets a young boy whose path she crosses when a professional hit goes bad. “Proud Mary” stars Henson, Billy Brown, Jahi Di’Allo Winston and Danny Glover.

In theaters — Jan. 12

‘Proud Mary’

Lifetime kicks off 2018 with a trio of feature movies based on the true stories of three women who have made lasting impressions in our world. Beginning Jan. 20 at 8 p.m., with the premiere of “Cocaine Godmother: The Griselda Blanco Story,” Academy Award winner Catherine Zeta-Jones stars in the true story of the most infamous woman in the drug world who fiercely and ruthlessly ran the cocaine trade in America. On Jan. 27 at 8 p.m., Grammy winner Toni Braxton stars in “Faith Under Fire: The Antoinette Tuff Story,” the true story of a heroic bookkeeper who saved the lives of hundreds by preventing a school shooting. Then Lifetime goes for the gold Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. with the biopic “The Simone Biles Story” the inspiring true story of the most decorated gymnast in the world starring Tisha Campbell-Martin, Julius Tennon and introducing Jeanté Godlock as Biles.

New Lifetime films

Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther” follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king — and Black Panther — is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life. The cast includes Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker and Andy Serkis.

Website: www.marvel.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/ marvelstudios; Twitter: @theblackpanther; Instagram: @ blackpanther In theaters — Feb. 16

A new hero

Esther Romanoff Kazer

SENIOR LITERACY PROGRAM Build your confidence with this FREE program.

Offered at Four Convenient Locations: For more information, contact Pat Walker at pwalker43@kennesaw.edu • Autumn Leaves or 470-578-3508.

• Benton House • Gaines Park • Ridenour

You Can Do It!

Have you spotted a celebrity around town? With the numerous films made here in Cobb County, you’re bound to see a celeb. If you manage to get a photo, share it with us to publish in Cobb Life.

Email — cobblife@cobblifemagazine.com.

EMPOWER // REINVENT // SUCCEED

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‘Peter Rabbit’ “Peter Rabbit,” the

“Forever My Girl” tells the story of music super-star Liam Page (Alex Roe) who left his bride, Josie (Jessica Rothe), at the altar, choosing fame and fortune instead.

However, Liam never got over Josie, his one true love, nor did he ever forget his Southern roots in the small community where he was born and raised. When he unexpectedly returns to his hometown for the funeral of his high school best friend, Liam is suddenly faced with the consequences of all that he left behind.

Website: www.forevermygirlthemovie. com/; Facebook: www.facebook. com/forevermygirlmovie; Twitter: @ 4evermygirl; Instagram: @ forevermygirlthemovie; Hashtag: #ForeverMyGirl In theaters — Jan. 19

A love story

mischievous and adventurous hero who has captivated generations of readers, now takes on the starring role of his own irreverent, contemporary comedy with attitude. In the film, Peter’s feud with Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) escalates to greater heights than ever before as they rival for the affections of the warm-hearted animal lover who lives next door (Rose Byrne). James Corden voices the character of Peter with playful spirit and wild charm, with Margot Robbie, Elizabeth Debicki and Daisy Ridley performing the voice roles of the triplets, Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail.

In theaters — Feb. 9

In “The Commuter,” Liam Neeson is Michael, an insurance salesman, whose daily commute home quickly becomes anything but routine. After being confronted by a mysterious stranger (Vera Farmiga), Michael is blackmailed into finding the identity of a passenger on his train before the last stop. As he works against the clock to solve the puzzle, Michael is unwittingly caught up in a criminal conspiracy that carries life-and-death stakes for himself and his fellow passengers. The cast also includes Patrick Wilson, Jonathan Banks, Elizabeth McGovern and Sam Neill. | Website: www.TheCommuter.movie; Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheCommuterFilm; Twitter: @ TheCommuterFilm; Instagram: @TheCommuterFilm; Hashtag: #TheCommuter | In theaters — Jan. 12

One last fight

‘The Post’ Steven Spielberg

directs Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in “The Post,” a thrilling drama about the unlikely partnership between The Washington Post’s Katharine Graham (Streep), the first female publisher of a major American newspaper, and editor Ben Bradlee (Hanks), as they race to catch up with The New York Times to expose a massive cover-up of government secrets that spanned three decades and four U.S. presidents. The two must overcome their differences as they risk their careers — and their very freedom — to help bring long-buried truths to light. The film stars Alison Brie, Carrie Coon, David Cross, Bruce Greenwood, Tracy Letts, Bob Odenkirk, Sarah Paulson, Jesse Plemons, Matthew Rhys, Michael Stuhlbarg, Bradley Whitford and Zach Woods.

Website: thepostmovie.com/; Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ThePostOfficial/; Twitter: @thepostmovie; Instagram: @thepostmovie/; Hashtag: #ThePost In theaters — Jan. 12

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January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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#AtlantasSweetSpot Discover eateries on the Marietta Square with the Marietta Food Tours Words and Photography by LaTria Garnigan

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12/21/2017 12:54:01 PM

Cecilie Benefield

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Ask Nic the REALTOR®

Q: HOW DO I BUY A FORECLOSURE? A: There are 3 stages in the foreclosure process. Pre-foreclosure, Public Auction, and Bank Owned. Pre-foreclosure occurs before a house goes to the courthouse steps in an auction. At Public Auction the house is sold on the county’s courthouse steps. Bank Owned is when a house has been repossessed by the foreclosing lender. You can potentially buy a house at any stage in this process. Contact Nic, the REALTOR® to find out more!

Nicholas Dixon dixon@nictherealtor.com 678.926.8367 (c) 770.874.6200 (o)

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F

or the past two years, I’ve wanted to explore the Marietta Square more — most importantly it’s many restaurants — but I haven’t quite made it. I’ve been to a few places, but it only put a dent in the amount of places to visit on the Square.

Enter the Marietta Food Tours. I can’t recall how I first heard of this offering but the words ‘food’ and ‘tour’ definitely pulled me in. This genius of a business is run by husband and wife team Brian and Cecilie Benefield. After falling in love with food tours in San Francisco a few years ago, they had the grand idea that the Square would be a perfect location for one of its own.

So their wheels began to turn. With the goal of showcasing the Square’s best in dining, Brian and Cecilie didn’t have a hard sell to the restaurants to participate.

“The restaurants were easily convinced to be on the tour because of what I call a “win, win, win” said Brian. “Meaning, we are bringing people into their place (sometimes for the first time), feeding them tasty food and having them hear the owner/ chef’s backstory while also offering an exclusive incentive to return another time to try a different food item.” Think coupons!

And that is exactly what you’ll get on the tour. I happily drove to the Square one Saturday morning to meet Brian and Cecilie and the rest of the curious foodies for a three-hour taste fest of seven restaurants in the city center — Australian Bakery Cafe, WR Social House, Paul’s Pot Pies, Cool Beans Coffee Roasters, Kiosco Colombian Restaurant, Marietta Wine Market and Miss Mamie’s Cupcakes, Cakes and Such.

In each location we tasted a predetermined item from the menu and were treated to a short history lesson on the business from Cecilie — who is knowledgeable in all things food and dining!

Then we were able to meet with a few people at the helm of these businesses who told us more information on their shop.

Highlights for me were the mini versions of the original pot pies at Paul’s Pot Pies, a new take on an appetizer at the Marietta Wine Market and, of course, dessert — a Guinness cupcake stuffed with salted caramel, topped with cream cheese frosting from Miss Mamie’s. Who wouldn’t want to end the day with a sweet treat?

Maybe the most impressive note about Brian and Cecilie’s food tour is the fact that this is simply a side hustle for the couple. Both still maintain full-time careers — Brian in marketing/ advertising and Cecilie in recruiting for an insurance company — yet you’d never know it with the amount of detail they put into the tour.

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Being Marietta residents, they are absolutely in love with their city and provide more than just dining facts. We made stops in Glover Park and in front of The Strand for some extra Marietta tidbits along the way. There is a possibility for an expansion of tour offerings with the anticipated Marietta Square Market that is slated to open this summer. Brian also mentioned possibly expanding into Woodstock or Roswell, both of which have bustling food scenes. But their heart will always be with the Square.

You have two opportunities to experience a food tour, which maxes out at 12 participants. On Saturdays, the tour is $50 per person and is more of a light-hearted, family-friendly occasion.

On Wednesdays, the tour is geared towards adults, is $75 per person and features different restaurants along with beer and wine. n

Marietta Food Tours www.mariettafoodtours.com

Left, Marietta Food Tours owners and operators Cecilie and Brian Benefield.

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20 [HEALTH & WELLNESS]

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21 ‘Tis the season for resolutions. They are easy to make but rarely easy to keep. So what is the secret to finally losing those 20 pounds, or dropping that cigarette habit for good?

Rather than pushing and stressing ourselves to do more and more, the secret might actually lie in something seemingly simpler.

THE PRACTICE OF BEING PRESENT Many could argue that 2017 was the year of mindfulness.

TIME magazine dedicated an entire special issue to the topic. Oprah Winfrey essentially dedicated an entire year of podcasts, television shows and literature on the practice. It seemed that everyone was asking, “What exactly is mindfulness?”

In simple terms, mindfulness is simply training the brain through meditation to be more present in a situation and approach it with awareness, calmness and kindness rather than acting impulsively in a negative manner.

“Your brain has two very different ways of thinking and experiencing. There is a thinking mode, where we’re essentially on autopilot and are not present in controlling our

thoughts and situations, and the sensing mode, where we’re really present in a situation and approaching situations through paying attention to our senses,” explained Lisa Wellstead, ERYT and founder of East Cobb Yoga and Mindfulness and Mindspace960. Wellstead has been teaching mindfulness programs to alleviate anxiety, stress and chronic pain in Atlanta for more than 13 years, and has brought mindfulness skills to executives at Fortune 500 companies, elite sports teams, schools, and faith-based organizations in churches and synagogues.

“Most of us spend the majority of our time in the thinking mode, so it’s everything you do to analyze, dictate, investigate, problem-solve and make goals. It’s focusing on the past and the future, and not on the present.

Mindfulness offers a different way and that’s through the senses. Sensing mode is everything we can see, smell, hear and taste. A lot of the imbalances we’re seeing today — societal anxiety and stress and really exhaustion — is the result of so much time being spent in this thinking mode when really, our view of our life is very narrowed. The more time we can spend in the sensing mode, the more present we can be in our lives,” Wellstead said.

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22 MINDFULNESS AND RESOLUTIONS Think of a problem you might be having. Wellstead explained that our natural mode of thinking is to go through the motions, then beat ourselves up later when we have failed. Mindfulness teaches us to understand our situations as they happen, make those choices, then learn to move on and forgive ourselves when those choices were wrong.

“When we’re present, we have a sense of what is most important,” she said. “It’s usually when we’re in that autopilot mode that we’re thinking more subconsciously and reflexively. So when we can slow down and really start to be curious about why we’re hungry, about why we want that cigarette, and discern between, ‘This is real hunger and this is stress. This is hunger, this is boredom. This is a craving for a cigarette or this is really just an emotional need that I have right now,’ — that’s how mindfulness can keep reminding you of what matters most, so you can start to make decisions and align your actions with what you care about.”

According to the American Psychological Association, several disciplines and practices can cultivate mindfulness, such as yoga, tai chi and qigong, but most of the literature has focused on mindfulness that is developed through mindfulness meditation.

Wellstead said learning to focus on your breathing through meditation and training your brain to meditate and be in the present can lead you on a path that will help you keep your resolutions.

“During so much of our lives, we’re not aware of what we’re doing or what we’re eating. Think of taking a yoga class. If you’re practicing fitness yoga, you’re probably thinking, ‘Am I doing this

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right? Do I look bad? Is everyone looking at me?’ But if you’re practicing mindful yoga, these questions will still likely come up but you’re able to shift your attention away from those thoughts and to the body, feeling your breath, letting go, anchoring yourself in the kindness and sensations of the body and breath,” she said.

Benefits of mindfulness discovered in research, according to the American Psychological Association: • Reduced rumination (mulling over an issue) • Stress reduction • Decrease in anxiety • Improvements to working memory • Better focus • Less emotional reactivity • Faster recovery from negative situations • Relationship satisfaction • Enhanced self-insight, morality, intuition and fear modulation • Increased immune functioning • Improvement to well-being • Reduction in psychological distress • Increased information processing speed • Decreased task effort and having thoughts that are unrelated to the task at hand

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23 KEEP MOVING AND STAY PRESENT The ’90s were a decade full of highs and lows for the Atlanta Braves. The very early ’90s, especially, found the Braves at the bottom of the league. But Marietta resident and famed sports psychologist Jack Llewellyn helped to change that by teaching John Smoltz, Tom Glavine and many others the art of focusing on the pitch, making the pitch, then letting go from the results of the pitch so the next one can be successful. A World Series championship was the result.

MINDFULNESS SEEKS TO HELP THE REST OF US TO DO THE SAME “It really changes the way we pay attention and the way we think and perceive our experiences, to see the good and appreciate the good,” Wellstead said. “We need to celebrate those little milestones when we have those successes and be present with those and keep a resilient mindset, so when we have setbacks, when we don’t meet those objectives, we know how to respond. The default is to be self-critical and beat ourselves up. But if there is kindness and compassion and heartfulness, you will respond to adversity differently, just as you would respond to those New Year’s resolutions you have set.” n

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24 [HOME]

sparkle &glam

New life changes turned this dining room from beige to bling

***

By LaTria Garnigan Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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arbara Blackwell not only has a newly-designed sparkly dining room for her Acworth home, it also accurately describes her personality.

The upbeat sales director has a newfound lease on life now that she’s single and an empty nester. With more time and leeway to entertain her friends, Barbara wanted a change for her dining room to match her personality and transitioning life.

“I love to entertain and needed something that mirrored my current lifestyle,” she said.

Having a friend who just so happens to be an interior designer doesn’t hurt. Keela Richard of Kay’s Decor & Interiors transformed the dining room in a matter of weeks and gave the room a fresh and lighter tone.

Keela started with the mirror and worked from there.

While there was some debate, they decided to keep the original dining room table and were able to find chairs whose legs matched perfectly. Speaking of chairs, Keela went for some distinction there. The two on each end are different from the other four — which gives is a bit of personality, to say the least.

There were definitely three items in the room that stood out the most: the large mirror, the light fixture and the table’s centerpiece.

“The mirror was my statement piece because I know she likes sparkly things, and has a big personality and is

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a fun person to be around,” Keela has redesigned just about every room in Barbara’s home, yet the shock of seeing this makeover still had her a bit emotional.

“I first saw the reflection of the light fixture in the mirror, which was breathtakingly gorgeous — and I was just floored,” said Barbara. “Then I go over to the window treatments and touch them, I notice the picture which looks like it’s floating in the frame and make my way over to the glass lamps. Every day I go on a journey.”

And she’s gotten some good use out of her new space, having hosted a French continental breakfast and a dinner for friends shortly after the project was completed.

“I’ve been entertaining a lot,” said Barbara. “And now that I have the time, that’s what I love to do — just entertain, laugh and share.”

DESIGN TIPS Keela has a staple of vendors and places where she obtains her items for design projects. She likes to say she’s “all over the place” when picking out pieces for her clients, but that everything comes together to meet her overall vision for the space she’s working on.

For this project: • The two end chairs came from Ballard Designs, and the other four (Broyhill) came from HomeGoods.

• The table centerpiece came from Accent Decor.

• The light fixture came Houzz and the slender wall sconces came from Z Gallerie.

Kay’s Decor & Interiors keelavore@kaysdecor.com www.kaysdecor.com 678-520-8589

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Gaines Park Senior Living Kennesaw, Georgia 770.424.1414 www.gainespark .com

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Written by Meredith Pruden & Amanda Swartwood Photography by Kelly J. Huff & Erin Gray Cantrell

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You voted. We counted.

Here are the places around Cobb that you felt were simply the Best.

Your votes let us know your favorite businesses in the county. Everything from Best Burger, Best Dessert, Best Places to Take Your Kids and more.

We hope you enjoy reading this section and get ideas on where you can go eat, be entertained and take your family in 2018!

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32 Best Festival

Chalktoberfest Marietta Square chalktoberfest.com

Fall temperatures, live music, over 150 craft beers from nearly 40 breweries and chalk drawings from professional artists around the world — who could ask for a better weekend?

The Marietta Museum of Art plays host to Chalktoberfest, a chalk festival and craft beer festival in one, the second weekend of October on the Marietta Square. Last year’s festival included 98 artists from Canada, Italy, Ukraine,

Mexico and 17 states. On Sunday, festivalgoers vote for the winner of the People’s Choice Award, and artists are rewarded for the top honor.

Amateur artists of all ages participate in their own contest Sunday, after which awards are given for various age groups.

Admission to Chalktoberfest is free, but tickets for the beer festival range from $40 to $50. Funding for the event is primarily made possible through generous donations and sponsorships.

Marietta resident Sarah Bullington says, “I love Chalktoberfest because it has something for all ages and provides access to quality art for people who might not frequent museums. It’s a great experience to observe the artwork taking shape and to see the finished products. I hate when it rains and washes away, but the temporary nature of the art is what makes it a once-in-a-lifetime event.”

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Best Place to Spend the Day Outdoors Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park 900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw 770-427-4686 www.nps.gov/kemo/index.htm

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Containing nearly 3,000 acres of pristine outdoor space for all your adventures, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park has come a long way from its heritage as a Civil War monument. Although it’s been designated national parkland since 1917, Kennesaw Mountain as we know it today has been entertaining its guests since the 1930s.

Whether you’d like to picnic on the green with family and friends for the day, tour the museum or check out the three battlefield areas, there also are nearly 20 miles of hiking trails to explore— making this local landmark the ideal spot to spend the day outdoors enjoying the lovely Georgia weather almost year-round.

Although you can take a tram to the top of the mountain to catch the truly spectacular view, the walk is highly recommend. There’s nothing quite so breathtaking as coming over the final hill to catch a glimpse of downtown Atlanta and even Stone Mountain on a clear day.

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Best Burger

Stockyard Burgers & Bones 26 Mill St., Marietta 2850 Paces Ferry Road, Vinings www.stockyardburger.com Stockyard Burgers and Bones offers a contemporary, upscale feel featuring a full bar and dishes of the highest quality. Gourmet burgers are made from certified Angus beef, served on a toasted H&F brioche bun, and topped with condiments made in-house.

Patrons looking for something other than burgers can enjoy hand-tossed salads; baby back ribs; pork chops; and mouth-watering chicken dishes in addition to sides like hand-cut fries and smoked Gouda mac and cheese.

Unique, homemade dipping sauces like bourbon and roasted tomato aioli and chili lime mayo make visiting Stockyard a real treat.

Owner Alexis Kinsey says, “We take such great care of each dish we prepare Alexis Kinsey using only the freshest ingredients.”

Located in Vinings, Sandy Springs and on the Marietta square, Stockyard will open a new location at the Avenues in East Cobb in early 2018. Whether seeking a casual lunch spot, a comfortable bar including signature cocktails and small plates, or a formal dinner, Stockyard offers something for every occasion.

Top, The Dirty South burger — Angus beef, baked Gouda mac and cheese, bacon and topped with an apple butter barbecue sauce. Above, The Not So Plain Jane burger — sharp cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, smoked paprika aioli and homemade pickles. Right, the Kitchen Sink burger — bacon, fried egg, chili, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and a bourbon smoked aioli.

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

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Located in Smyrna, Cumberland Diamond Exchange has been making dreams come true for 35 years with its award-winning, family-owned approach to jewelry.

Owned by husband-and-wife duo Mark and Rhonda Jacobson, Cumberland Diamond Exchange is ranked among the top 5 percent of jewelers in the United States and offers a wide range of bling for every style, including bridal jewelry, loose diamonds, stone settings, designer jewelry, corporate gifts, one-of-a-kind custom jewelry design and even estate consultations and appraisals, in-house repair and ring resizing.

This is the third year Cobb Life readers have voted Cumberland Diamond Exchange the Best Jeweler in Cobb since the contest began, and that’s probably because the Jacobsons and their team of dedicated staff, including daughter Melissa and three graduate gemologists, reflect a culture where everyone, regardless of budget, can feel welcome.

If you’re ready to be treated like one of the family, head over to Cumberland Diamond Exchange for your next jewelry purchase.

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Best Golf Course

Marietta Country Club 1400 Marietta County Club Drive, Kennesaw 770-426-1808 www.mariettacountryclub.org

Photo courtesy of Marietta Country Club.

With 27 beautifully manicured holes, Kennesaw Mountain as a backdrop and nearly a century of golf history and tradition, it is easy to see why the Marietta Country Club golf course has earned top honors.

The 180-acre course was designed by Robert Cupp, and is maintained in near pristine condition with the leadership of its grounds superintendent, Mark Hayes.

Seasoned member John Clotfelter says, “The course provides versatility that makes it enjoyable for recreational golfers to play, yet can be set up to test top amateur and professional golfers.”

Director of Golf Stephen Keppler leads an all-star team of PGA professionals offering lessons and assistance in the fully merchandised pro shop.

Although the course requires membership to play, a golf membership to the Marietta Country Club also includes the use of the pool, tennis and clubhouse facilities.

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• Adult & pediatric sports medicine • Arthritis care • Fracture care • Minimally-invasive surgery for the hand & upper extremities • Operative & non-operative injury management • Tendon disorders • Carpal tunnel/Cubital tunnel syndrome

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38 Best Fine Dining

Capers Restaurant & Bar 1635 Old 41 Hwy. Ste. 403, Kennesaw 678-594-7735 capersonmain.com Once nestled in a quaint home in historic downtown Kennesaw, Caper’s Restaurant & Bar relocated to the corner of Old 41 Highway and Barrett Parkway (and a much larger space) about six years ago.

Although the new American style eatery with a decidedly Southern twist changed locales, one thing hasn’t changed in its 13-year tenure, and that’s a commitment to great food made from fresh ingredients.

Pass Around appetizers, including Fried Green Tomatoes and Hickory Smoked Salmon dip are long-time fan favorites, while the Steak of the Day and Sautéed Trout entrées are hearty portions that will melt in your mouth.

Top it all off with a scrumptious dessert like the Chocolate Mousse Cake or Strawberry Pound Cake.

And, whatever you do, don’t forget to enjoy a nightcap from the fully-stocked bar.

In addition to the expanded dining room, this is one area you won’t want to miss given its homey den-style ambiance.

Left, Toasted Strawberry Pound Cake. Above left, Hawaiian Ribeye — certified angus beef grilled to order with soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice and orange juice. Above right, Sauteed Trout — fresh pan seared Georgia mountain trout with a lemon caper buerre blanc sauce and topped with fresh capers, paired with green beans.

Photography by Chris Watkins

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Best Salon & Spa

Dyer & Posta Salon 600 Chastain Rd., Suite 312, Kennesaw 770-514-1620 dyerandposta.com

Above, owner of Dyer & Posta Salon, Stephen Posta.

With a huge clientele that travels from around the southeastern States for natural, hand-painted hair color and high quality cuts at once organic and precise, this ain’t Dyer & Posta Salon’s first rodeo in our Best of Salon & Spa category.

Helmed by partners Stephen Posta and Amanda Dyer for almost a decade, the salon’s committed staff consistently hits hair home runs with its high-volume clientele while managing to maintain an uber cool vibe and strike a delicate balance between personal-

ized service and on-trend style.

The team at Dyer & Posta has traveled all over the world to train with some of the salon industry’s most recognized and esteemed talents, ensuring you’ll walk out of Dyer &Posta with not only a cut and color perfectly suited to you but also a standard of service you won’t soon forget.

At Dyer & Posta, you can rely on a consistently excellent in-salon experience even as you walk out looking like the very best version of you!

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40 Best Boutique

Doodlebugz 15 W. Park Square, NE, Marietta 770-792-6734 www.facebook.com/shopdoodlebugz/ Whether purchasing the perfect birthday gift, picking out home décor, or shopping with the kids, Doodlebugz, on the Marietta square, truly offers something for everyone.

The store welcomes customers of all ages through open doors and tickles the senses with colorful gifts, whimsical décor, and sweet smelling candles.

Marietta resident, and frequent shopper, Samantha Johnson says, “Doodlebugz is my go-to spot for unique finds and gifts. It’s perfect for all occasions.”

The boutique carries everything from women’s apparel and children’s books, to brands like Sid Dickens and Corksicle. (Don’t miss the sale room in the back packed floor to ceiling with great deals on gifts and décor!)

Each month, the shop hosts in-store workshops on subjects like: terrariums, jewelry, stamping, monoprinting and bath bombs.

Doodlebugz is open Monday to Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 9:15 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Follow them on Facebook for more information on promotions and events.

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Best Place to Take Kids Marietta Square www.mariettasquare.com

Candy shops, ice cream parlors, toy stores, theaters, a playground, a fountain, and train horns echoing in the background — what kid wouldn’t love the Marietta square?

Each season offers something new in the park but two things remain the same — the playground, modeled after a train engine, and the fountain, upon which many-a-Marietta-resident has wished.

Stephanie Coston, Operations Director of the Marietta Square Experience Branding Project, summarizes the magic that is Glover Park saying, “It’s a place where kids can play and parents can enjoy the setting. Our museums, family friendly restaurants, and galleries are also part of what makes the square so inviting. Kids feel welcome here and the eclectic environment lets families enjoy time together.”

Follow Marietta Square Experience on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or visit www.mariettasquare. com for updates on family friendly events.

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42 Best Dessert

Gabriel’s Restaurant & Bakery Marietta: 800 Whitlock Ave., Marietta; 770-427-9007 Acworth: 4271 Southside Dr., Acworth; 570-891-5969 gabrielsdesserts.com Owner Johnnie Gabriel has been making sweet treats the locals love since 1996. She and her team have won not only accolades but herds of loyal customers since Gabriel’s Restaurant & Bakery first opened back in 1996.

The outfit moved to its current location in 2007 and recently expanded to include a stand-alone bakery that runs from the wee hours of the morning until after dinner each night.

Try the Little White Lady with its thin layers of chocolate cake filled and frosted with white chocolate mousse and finished with semi sweet chocolate swirls or a Flourless Chocolate Heart (it’s gluten free after all) paired with the perennial favorite Fresh Fruit Tart.

The gluten free chocolate heart can be made in sizes from the small heart seen here all the way up to a 9-inch round that serves up Johnnie Gabriel, to 18 people.

No matter what size you crave, owner. it’s the perfect pairing for a seasonal assortment of fresh fruits and made-from-scratch pastry cream. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Gabriel’s Restaurant & Bakery.

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Best Breakfast

The Marietta Local 148 Roswell St., Marietta 770-794-2299 www.themariettalocal.com

Above, Owner Jim Tidwell. Far left, The Local’s most popular dish the Chicken-NFrench Toast — fried chicken served with French toast topped with powdered sugar, warm granny smith apples and Vermont Maple syrup.

Using the freshest ingredients on the local market, The Marietta Local, offers a scrumptious selection of dishes for both breakfast and lunch.

As winner of the “The Big Chicken” award the last four years in a row at the Taste of Marietta, breakfast includes chicken and French toast; chicken biscuits; an array of omelets; and sides like stone-ground cheese grits, donuts, and potato hash .

Owner, Jim Tidwell, says, “We make all our dishes fresh from scratch daily to ensure the highest quality and richest flavor.”

As a 2017 Cobb Chamber top 25 small businesses of the year, The Local also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner catering with custom menus for any event.

The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Arrive early and hungry as tables can be a challenge to find and dishes are satisfyingly large.

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www.SunShieldPro.com | 1-833-Buyderm January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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44 Best Home Decor

Acorn Home & Garden 3870 Due West Road, NW, Marietta 770-426-9840 acornhomeandgarden.com Tony Whitlock and Loriann Thibodeaux combine almost 30 years of experience in interior design and floral arrangement to create a home décor wonderland at Acorn Home & Garden.

A visit to the shop is like walking into a dream home where every detail has been carefully selected and perfectly paired. Acorn offers everything from hostess gifts and simple décor pieces, to special event floral arrangement, holiday decorating, and complete room makeovers.

Whitlock, a Marietta design icon, says, “I really enjoy visiting clients’ homes; interviewing them; and

Owners Tony Whitlock and Loriann Thibodeaux.

creating a room tailored to their personality and lifestyle.”

Follow Acorn on Facebook and Twitter, or visit acornhomeandgarden.com for updates on sales and events.

Fresh looks are created monthly — don’t miss a visit in February to the newly re-decorated “inspiration showroom.”

Thibodeaux explains it best saying, “Acorn has something for everyone; a service for everyone. In addition to our products, we offer expertise, talent, and the highest level of quality and customer service.”

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5

2018

February 24, 2018

Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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46 Best BBQ

Dave Poe’s BBQ 660 Whitlock Ave., Marietta 770-792-2272 davepoes.com

Award-winning pulled pork (cooked each night for 16 hours), two styles of fall-off-the-bone ribs (baby back and St. Louis spare), fresh made collards and mac-n-cheese so good it’ll make you want to slap your momma — what’s not to love about Dave Poe’s BBQ?!

This joint seamlessly blends a little bit of rustic Southern charm, some darn fine ‘Q and the kind of customer service that will have you coming back for more again and again, which isn’t surprising since its owner has been in the business since 1975 and in this location for a decade.

With this kind of high quality product and consistency, it’s no wonder customers always leave with a smile on their faces and maybe just a little bit of the house made sauce still dripping off their chins.

If you haven’t yet been to Dave Poe’s, don’t let the shopping center fool you, it’s some of the best barbecue around!

Owner Dave Poe.

Best Customer Service

Above, J.R. Woods, along with his wife Brandy and daughter Savannah, offer a wide variety of challenges for thrill seekers and sleuths at their Project: Escape game room facility in Marietta.

46

Project: Escape 1395 S. Marietta Parkway, Suites 202 & 230, Marietta (two locations in the same business center) 844-372-2731 projectescapeatl.com What began two years ago as a gifted family birthday outing from daughter to father became much more than an occupation — it became a passion for the Woods’ family (husband and wife team Brandy and J.R., daughter Savannah and four-legged furry grandson and company mascot George).

The result is the Marietta-based escape room Project: Escape. If you’ve been to other escape rooms before, get ready for something entirely different at Project: Escape.

Gone are the days of choosing amazing game play or a completely immersive aesthetic experience.

Here, you can have the best of both worlds thanks to J.R.’s background as a construction company owner with Disney (yes, that Disney) training and Savannah’s zest for puzzles.

Add Brandy’s zeal for customer service, and you have a recipe for not only a Best of Cobb winner but an absolutely unforgettable night out with family, friends or co-workers.

Book your holiday escape room adventure today!

Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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Those lucky enough to solve the mystery and unlock the final locks and escape are able to write their names on the door of the room they mastered at Project: Escape in Marietta.

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January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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48 [SPICE]

GRAB ‘N

GO

New Vinings health food shop offers prepped meals for the foodie on the run

By Amanda Swartwood Photography by Erin Gray Cantrell

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49

Y

ou’re motivated, you’ve got all the right gear and you’ve joined the perfect gym — time to execute the fitness plan and shed those lingering holiday pounds.

But, what about healthy eating?

For so many, the most difficult parts of dieting resolutions are busy schedules and the enticement of winter comfort food. Who doesn’t love a good heaping of chicken pot pie with homemade biscuits by the fire?

They may be tasty, but many of those dishes are high in calories, carbs and, sometimes, regret.

Eat Fit Go, a new health food retail store in Vinings, takes the thinking, planning and preparation of healthy meals out of your busy schedule and makes sticking to a healthy living plan easier.

Since opening its doors Oct. 30, Eat Fit Go has supplied healthy, precooked meals to busy families, business executives between meetings and students with little time to spare between classes. A central kitchen in Kennesaw supplies the store with over 60 options for fresh, individually portioned precooked meals free of gluten and preservatives and low in sugar and sodium.

In the store, coolers are stocked with a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Ingredients and “eat by” dates are clearly listed, and packaging

includes nutrition labels that scan into apps like MyFitnessPal and Weight Watchers.

The menu lists mouthwatering dishes like steak and eggs, chicken fried rice and peanut butter chocolate chip gogo bites. Also included are vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free options.

Atlanta Area Manager Chelsey Moch says, “Our goal is to make lives easier introducing healthy eating options to tailor to any lifestyle.”

Eat Fit Go makes those hectic weekdays easier by offering a “perfect week meal plan” including five breakfasts, five lunches, five dinners, five snacks and five protein bars in either small or large portions. Prices for the plans range from $149 to $169 for the week, and can be pre-purchased at eatfitgo.com for easy in-store pick-up.

No time to order ahead? No problem.

Eat Fit Go, located at 2980 Cobb Parkway, is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Stop by anytime to pick up kid and adult meals averaging $5 to $8, or stay and eat as the store provides microwaves, tables and flatware.

January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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The breakfast Southwest Scramble. Lean ground turkey with egg whites, diced jalapenos, bell peppers, roasted corn, pico and shredded cheese.

A lunch or dinner meal is the Basic Salmon Meal.

Spiced salmon with broccoli on a bed of converted rice.

A dinner or lunch meal, Chicken Alfredo.

A mixture of smart chicken with gluten-free breading on top of gluten-free pasta with alfredo sauce and bell peppers.

Eat Fit Go food specialist Ricardo Cornett.

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Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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2980 Cobb Parkway Vinings eatfitgo.com

Giovanni’s RESTAURANT

2495 East West Connector, Austell, GA

For Reservations, please call us at (678) 384-1169 email: juan@giovannisgenuineitalian.com • /GiovannisRestaurant

www.GiovannisGenuineItalian.com January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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52

Words and Photography by Michael Venezia

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53 W

hen the northern latitude vineyards begin their harvest, the weather during the months of September through November is particularly critical for grape ripening and wine making.

Autumn also ushers in the season when fundraisers and benefits are held in support of many worthy causes. I enjoy very much the annual Atlanta Best Cellars Dinner to help fund the continued research at the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory. Music industry personalities attend and significant dollars are raised through the generosity of corporate and individual donors. Celebrating with wines from their personal cellars were renowned Atlanta restauranteur Pano Karatassos, founder of Buckhead Life Restaurants; Hal Nowak, the “Hal” of Hal’s The Steak House and George McKerrow, founder of Longhorn Steaks and a managing partner of Ted’s Montana Grill. I was also thrilled to share a glass of Heitz Cellars, Martha’s Vineyard, Michael Venezia and Chris ‘Ludacris’ Cabernet Bridges. Sauvignon 2010 with Chris Bridges, aka Ludacris, a friend, wine lover and a generous supporter.

In the early hours of Oct. 9, major wildfires fueled by gusting winds of 70 mph exploded in Northern California wine country. Several wine friends were threatened, thousands of acres of land scorched and thousands of people displaced from their homes due to forced evacuations. Apocalyptic devastation to homes and businesses left large communities in Santa Rosa with thousands of residents displaced and suffering from shock and horror. The speed of the fire, fueled by the dry ground cover and fierce winds, gave sleeping residents little warning other than the frantic appeals of local police and volunteer fire brigades calling for immediate evacuation in the middle of the night.

In November, during a visit to Atlanta, I had an opportunity to spend a few hours over lunch with Margo Van Staaveren, who recalled for me the surreal memory of how she and her husband were forced to evacuate their isolated home in the town of Glen Ellen. With windblown embers swirling and falling in every direction, while watching the orange glow of the fire in the Western hills above the town of Kenwood, she described her vision as a frightening glimpse of hell. After two weeks, when the fires had been extinguished and it was safe to return, she and her

husband discovered their home was spared. The blazes were responsible for the destruction of 8,400 buildings, the deaths of 42 people, and the burning of more than 200,000 acres. Of the 1,200 wineries in the affected counties, only 11 were heavily damaged or destroyed. In Sonoma only 5 percent of the vineyard acres were in the fire zone. It is impossible to calculate the combined effects of this existential tragedy.

The 2017 harvest was more than 80 percent complete; however, the remaining unharvested grapes might be affected by smoke taint. As of this writing, the jury is out on the results of those preliminary tests of these fermented grapes.

My annual harvest trip to Oregon’s Willamette Valley introduced me to a new winery in the Yamhill Carlton American Viticultural Area called the Willakenzie Estate.

An important and historic producer of site specific vineyard designated Pinot Noir made for a memorable visit and tasting. During the tasting tutorial, I experienced seven different Pinot Noirs each exhibiting a unique personality.

Their motto, “Dirt Matters,” highlights the multiple geological complexities of the Willakenzie and Jory soil profiles. The soils contribute to achieving root stock compatibility which is translated to the fruit and impacts the intensity to the aromas, textures and flavors of the finished wines.

Their passion for Pinot Noir with a sense of place defines the wines produced on the estate, a family oriented, boutique winery utilizing sustainably grown grapes, reflecting old world traditions in new world Oregon.

Dick Shea’s business card states “winegrower” and it messages his belief that all wines are born in the vineyard.

The Shea Vineyards clients reads like a who’s who in the super premium production of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.

Penner Ash, Ken Wright Cellars, Rex Hill, St. Innocent and Raptor Ridge are among the producers all proud to add Shea Vineyards designation to their labels.

With 140 acres planted, only 25 percent of the estate is used to produce the wines destined for Shea Wine Cellars.

A vineyard force in sustainable farming practices, they have recently been recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for their involvement in the Conservation Security Program.

While visiting, I was treated to examining several bubbling, open-top fermenters of Pinot Noir. Winemaker Blair Trathen was very generous with his time explaining the reasons he was fermenting a few barrels with whole clusters and stem contact. He explained this technique adds enormous amounts of aroma and texture to the finished wine.

January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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54 These wines are worth seeking out from your favorite wine retailer.

Thanksgiving dinner was enjoyed with both Willakenzie Estate and Shea Wine Cellars Pinot Noirs complementing the culinary traditional turkey and all the trimmings. Patti made a wonderful cranberry sauce by reducing fresh berries with Ruby Porto and orange juice, it was a lovely compliment to these two very fine wines.

As we end another year on the wine road, I am looking forward to sharing wines with friends during the Christmas holidays, with Champagne being my favorite go-to beverage during the month of December.

Crystal Ball 2018 The U.S. sparkling wine market will continue to expand with consumers realizing that there is no better way to begin a meal than with French Champagne or sparkling wine. Italian Prosecco will continue to grow with Spain entering the market with a heavily promoted campaign for their bubbly called Cava. It will find some traction in 2018.

Millennials are driving wine consumption growth and many singles groups attend wine tastings, participate in wine weekends and enjoy local wine “mixers” all in the search of the next great wine experience.

Cans, Screw Tops and Alternative Packaging

Wine will enter a new packaging era as many producers will

market their wine less in cork-sealed bottles and opt for more user-friendly containers.

Harvest 2017 Largely disappointing in From left, Blair Trathen, Michael Venezia and Western Europe Dick Shea. with EU countries such as Italy, France, Spain and Portugal seeing reduced yields due to challenging weather throughout the growing season. Northern California counties also will experience smaller harvest which might affect pricing for certain high end wines.

Historic Discovery – From Vine to Wine About 50 kilometers south of Tibilisi, the capital of Georgia, in the region of the Caucasian, pottery fragments belonging to vessels and containers contained DNA fingerprints of tartaric acid. This signals that grape juice was fermented and wine made 8,000 years ago.

A glass of wine connects you to 8 millennia of history, culture and the celebration of human civilization. A toast to all Cobb Life Magazine readers for a healthy 2018 filled with new wine discoveries. n

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Win an

Apple for your

ÂŽ

Brought to you by

(iPadÂŽ)

Teacher!

Superior Plumbing and the Marietta Daily Journal are teaming up to give away an iPad a week, to local K-12 teachers.

The contest runs the entire 2017-2018 school year!

Visit www.mdjonline.com to submit your nomination!

CL JAN-FEB 2018 55 55

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.

12/26/2017 11:30:01 AM

56 [KEEPING UP WITH KATY RUTH]

By Katy Ruth Camp Holiday decorations are always some of the most treasured and loved, just like a beautiful old house, so it is no surprise the combination of the two makes the Pilgrimage Marietta Home Tour a favorite tradition for many each year.

The tour, which benefits the Marietta Visitors Bureau and Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society, attracts thousands of visitors who walk through the doors of select historic homes each year to hear about their history and admire their dressing of holiday décor.

This was my third year volunteering for the event, and it is always a grand social affair and a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit.

This year’s homes were all located in the Whitlock Heights neighborhood, but the festivities are always first greeted with a gala the night before the first day of tours.

The gala was held at the lovely Whitlock Inn and hundreds of Marietta’s notables were decked in their winter evening gowns and finest suits and tuxedos. My favorite Marietta fashionista, Pat Chilton, was especially glamourous in her feather-rimmed top and gold taffeta floor-length skirt, gathered stylishly to the side (seen above).

Others in attendance included honorary co-chairs Grant Rivera (superintendent of Marietta City Schools) and his wife, Jenn Hobby (co-host of Star 94’s Jeff & Jenn Show), co-chairs Stace Huff and Johnny Sinclair, Marie Barnes, Betsy Throop, Bill and Dot Dunaway and many others.

The following morning came early, as I was to chair Mockingbird Hill, the grand home of Sterling and Nancy Wharton. Stace came to my rescue about 30 minutes into my duties with a cup of coffee in hand, followed by another cup of a coffee a few short hours later. My hero!

When I chaired Laura and Bryan Higginbotham’s Kennesaw Avenue home the year prior, my father was made to be my coffee deliverer. I think next year I better just hide a Keurig on the porch.

If you didn’t make the Pilgrimage this year, be sure you do next year. I can no longer imagine the holiday season without it. *** Kandi Gary was planning to wed her now-husband Matt in late November in a very simple way: at the Cobb County Courthouse.

Neither are ostentatious people, nor did they have the means or desire to throw a lavish wedding, anyway.

So a courthouse wedding it was, until her boss stepped in and stepped up in a big-hearted way.

Kandi is the office manager for Re/MAX PURE on the Marietta Square, led by community patron and Realtor extraordinaire, Wendy

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Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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Bunch. Kandi told Wendy of her simple wedding plans and appeared to be fine with them, but Wendy sensed Kandi wanted something more.

So, when Wendy mentioned Kandi’s plans to Marietta attorney Mazi Mazloom over a double-date dinner with their spouses, those plans changed.

“When I told Mazi, he said, ‘Don’t let her get married at the courthouse with 60 other people. Let’s do it at the Strand,’” Wendy said.

Wendy and Mazi are both on the board of trustees at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre on the Marietta Square, so they pulled a few strings to get a few minutes for the Gary’s at the historic theatre, although they didn’t have to pull hard.

“When I asked (Facilities and Events Director) Andy (Gaines) if we could have just 10 or 20 minutes in front of the Strand or in the lobby so that Mazi could marry them, he said, ‘Absolutely!’ They actually had an event cancel for that night, so he said we were welcomed to use the fourth floor, the second floor, wherever we wanted,” Wendy said.

But Wendy said she then began to think that maybe they had jumped the gun, and that maybe Kandi wouldn’t want to get married at the Strand.

“I went to her and asked her if she would want to get married at the Strand, and she just couldn’t believe it. She was so excited and started crying and of course, that made me start crying, too!” Wendy said, with tears in her eyes as she told the story.

Not only did the Strand provide the space, but the staff also put the newlyweds’ names in lights with “Congratulations to Kandi and Matthew” shining across the theatre’s marquee. After Mazi married the couple on the theatre’s fourth-floor balcony, right at sunset, the small wedding party came downstairs to the second-floor lounge for a

reception, where the Strand staff had provided cupcakes from Miss Mamie’s.

“There were about nine people in all, including me and Mazi, and it was just really small and intimate and really, really sweet,” Wendy said.

Thank you to Wendy, Mazi and the Strand for giving sweet Kandi a wedding to remember! *** Speaking of the Strand, this month, we bid farewell to Strand General Manager and my friend and neighbor, Cassi Costoulas, as she pursues other opportunities in Nashville, Tennessee. Cassi has worked for the Strand since 2008, when she was an intern. She worked her way up through various positions before becoming the theatre’s general manager in January 2014, after former General Manager Earl Reece retired.

But as we say goodbye, we say hello to Gaines as he steps into the role. Andy has worked with the Strand as its events and facilities director since August 2014. He and his wife, Casey, have two young sons and Andy is truly a great asset to our community and the historic theatre. I have no doubt the Strand has many more wonderful memories ahead in his capable hands.

I will miss being able to take a break on my walks to the Square by knocking on the door of Cassi’s beloved home, the “Watermelon Compound,” as she named her pink-and-green house, but I am glad she is keeping the home and hopefully I will still see her rocking on its porch from time to time.

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58 [HIGHLIGHTS]

A CLOSER LOOK AT EVENTS HAPPENING IN COBB DURING DECEMBER JANUARY 9

JANUARY 19-21, 26-28, FEBRUARY 2-4

Andrew Bramlett is 12 years old and is a life-long resident of Kennesaw. He has a love for history and tries to be involved in promoting Kennesaw and the history of the area. Currently, Andrew is the vice president of the Kennesaw Historical Society, an honorary member of the Cemetery Preservation Commission for the city of Kennesaw, a volunteer at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and a special events volunteer with the Kennesaw Parks and Recreation department. Andrew is a sixth grader and is home-schooled. Andrew’s presentation, “Why Do They Say That,” will look at Southern expressions. When: Jan. 9, 7 p.m. Where: Roberts Community and Education Center, 4681 School St., Acworth.

The Futrelle Sisters, Frankie, Honey Raye and Twink, are throwing a wedding. Frankie has almost made herself sick with elaborate preparations for her daughter Tina Jo’s antebellum-inspired wedding, and the rumor mill in their small town of Fayro, Texas, is working overtime. No surprise there, the Futrelle Sisters have never been strangers to gossip. After all, they did survive the scandalous breakup of their almost-famous gospel singing trio, The Sermonettes. But Twink’s desperate attempts to get her boyfriend of 15 and one-half years down the aisle, Frankie’s ongoing conversations with their dead mother, and Honey Raye’s tendency to race to the altar at every opportunity have kept tongues wagging for years. When: Jan. 19-21, 26-28 and Feb. 2-4. Where: Marietta’s Theatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Ave., NW, Marietta. Tickets: $12-$30. Info: 770-4264800, www.theatreinthesquare.net

WHY DO THEY SAY THAT

FEBRUARY 9-24

IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU

The bride is Jewish. The groom is Catholic. Her mother is a force of nature. His mother is a tempest in a cocktail shaker. And, when the bride’s ex-boyfriend crashes the party, the perfect wedding starts to unravel faster than you can whistle “Here Comes the Bride!” It’s up to the sister of the bride to turn a tangled mess into happily ever after in this musical comedy for anyone who ever had parents.

When: Feb. 9-24. Where: Out of the Box Theatre, 585 Cobb Parkway South, Suite C-1, Marietta.

Tickets and info: www.outofboxtheatre.com/.

58

JANUARY 16-21

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra and memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex, and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what millions of women worldwide have been laughing about for 16 years! It’s the hilarious celebration of women and The Change! When: Jan. 16-21. Where: The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, 117 N. Park Square, Marietta. Tickets and info: $39 - $49; earlsmithstrand.org/calendar/tickets/, 770-293-0080

DEARLY BELOVED

Cobb Life | January/February 2018

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FEBRUARY 13

FEBRUARY 15-18, 22-25

Mary J. Blige, multi-Grammy Award-winning singer, will perform at Atlanta’s legendary Fox Theatre. Mary J. Blige, an iconic Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist, is a figure of inspiration, transformation, and empowerment making her one of the defining voices of the contemporary music era. When: Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Where: Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St., NE, Atlanta. Info: Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.FoxTheatre.org, by calling 855-285-8499, or at the Fox Theatre Ticket Office. Tickets start at $62.50, plus applicable fees.

In “The Meeting,” the action takes place in a suite high up in a Harlem hotel, where Malcolm X and his bodyguard, Rashad, rest before Malcolm’s fateful appearance at the Audubon Ballroom. Malcolm has requested a secret meeting with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who is also in New York, and Dr. King has responded by trudging up the back stairs to Malcolm’s suite. Cautious at first, the two quickly fall into a spirited debate about their differing approaches to improving the lot of the black man in a predominantly white society — Dr. King (the lamb) hoping to find racial harmony through love and peaceful resistance, while Malcolm (the lion) is reconciled to violence and revenge if blacks are to win out over oppression. But no matter how provocative and persuasive his arguments, Malcolm is unable to shake Dr. King’s commitment and composure — even when he defeats him in a bout of arm wrestling.

When: Feb. 15-18, 22-25. Where: Marietta’s Theatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Ave., NW, Marietta. Tickets: $30 for adults and, $25 for seniors/military and $20 for children ages 13 and younger. Info: 770426-4800, www.theatreinthesquare.net

MARY J. BLIGE CONCERT

FEBRUARY 9-25

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, based on the popular 1988 MGM film, takes us to the French Riviera for high jinks and hilarity. Sophisticated, suave with a good dash of mischief, this hysterical comedy features a delightfully jazzy score by David Yazbek (The Full Monty) and was nominated for a staggering eleven Tony Awards. Lawrence Jameson makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money. Freddy Benson more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. After meeting on a train, they attempt to work together, only to find that this small French town isn’t big enough for the two of them. They agree on a settlement: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female target, heiress, Christine Colgate, wins, and the other must leave town. A hilarious battle of cons ensues that will keep audiences laughing, humming and guessing to the end! When: Feb. 9-25. Where: Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, SE, Marietta. Tickets and info: atlantalyrictheatre.com/show/dirty-rotten-scoundrels/

THE MEETING

YEAR ROUND

GHOSTS OF MARIETTA

All aboard The Historic Marietta Trolley Co. for a 90 minute spirited ride as you visit several of Marietta’s landmarks with the most paranormal activity. Drive through burial grounds and hear tales of the most recent sightings and stories based on actual events from the Civil War. Take a brief walk among the headstones under the rising moon as you hear stories of those whose remains lie just beneath the ground. Learn the legends of The Lady In Black and Mary Minert whose statue is rumored to cry for her dead children.

Come with us, if you dare to tempt the dark side. This tour does include a very brief period of walking (about two blocks total) so if you have any issues walking please let us know. All Ghost Tours are 90 minutes and are held rain or shine. Space on all tours is limited and advance tickets are required. No reservations are held without a ticket. No refunds will be given, however we will provide you a rain check for future tours, good for one year. Check-in begins 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour. The Ghosts of Marietta offices are located just a block from Marietta Square, across from the First Baptist Church on Church Street. When: Each weekend, yearround. Where: 131 Church St., Marietta. Tickets and info: 770-425-5755 and http://ghostsofmarietta.com/.

Have an event you want us to highlight? Email cobblife@cobblifemagazine.com.

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GOBBLE JOG PROPOSAL. Drew Harding and Hillary Duval (both Marietta residents) got engaged at the 2017 Gobble Jog in Glover Park on the Marietta Square. Drew is the grandson of Jack Wilson, a member of the Kiwanis Club. // PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JOHNNY WALKER //

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PERKS COFFEE OPENING. Travelers on Windy Hill Road have a new reason to perk up. Perks Coffee, 3300 Windy Hill Road, opened Nov. 27 in the Cumberland/Powers Ferry Road area to provide a perfect spot to get a morning caffeine fix. At the helm are Owner Jamshid Panahi, along with managers Jose Delpino and Samantha Anderson. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY J. HUFF //

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SouthernCremations.com Where Memories Live OnSM January/February 2018 | Cobb Life

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ANNUAL MEETING AND MIXER. Cobb Travel & Tourism celebrated its 25th annual meeting and mixer with friends and partners in November at The Brickyard in Marietta. The program included the presentation of the Cobb Travel & Tourism SpotOn Awards, highlighted the newly redesigned TravelCobb.org, elected a new board of directors for 2018, and honored the 50th anniversary of Cobb County’s largest attraction, Six Flags Over Georgia and Hurricane Harbor. Guests were able to enjoy food, drinks, giveaways, and a unique Connect Four networking game in an exciting social atmosphere. 1. Laurel Copenhaver and Robyn Folster. 2. A shot of the crowd at the mixer. 3. From left, Kim Watt, Michelle Berryman and Holly Quinlan. 4. Ellen Smith and Curtis Ezell. // PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF COBB TRAVEL & TOURISM //

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Expires date of appointment.

Driveways Sidewalks Stoops Steps Patios Pool Decks Garages Basements

BEFORE

AFTER

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CHRISTMAS ON THE SQUARE. Children and their families were treated to a visit by Santa Claus on the Marietta Square for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Glover Park. 1. Santa Claus arrives on the Marietta Square. 2. Santa Claus listens to a

Christmas wishlist while holding Sadie Morrell. 3. Caroline Browne, 2, sits atop her grandfather David Browne’s shoulders as the countdown struck zero and the great tree was lit. 4. A father and his two sons are illuminated by the red lights of the firetruck carrying Santa Claus to the Marietta Square. 5. A youngster gets a special seat on someone’s shoulders for the lighting of the Christmas tree. 6. Pastor Sam Matthews from the Marietta First United Methodist Church, wore his Christmas spirit on his head as he attended the tree lighting. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY J. HUFF //

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15TH ANNUAL GOBBLE JOB. The 15th annual Gobble Jog was held Thanksgiving Day in Marietta and featured a 10K run, 5K run/walk, 1K run/walk and a Tot Trot. The race benefitted MUST Ministries, a nonprofit dedicated to helping our neighbors in need by providing food, clothing, shelter, job training and more. Residents of all ages participated in the event. // PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM NETTLETON //

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In early December, Cobb County and most of metro Atlanta were treated to a surprise snowstorm. Cobb was blanketed with about 10 inches of snow. Here’s a bit of that snow on a holly bush in Marietta.

PHOTO BY KELLY J. HUFF

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