Woodstock, GA August 2024

Honoring Animal Bonds

Whether you’re a cat or dog person, or both, you’ve likely had a close relationship with an animal at some point in your life. These relationships are some of the most valuable ones in our lives. The way we are patient with learning pet’s communication styles and recognizing their every need is a testament to this bond.

August is our Kids and Pets issue. As you flip these pages, think about the relationships you have with the animals around you. Take a few extra seconds and snuggle your pets. Get them excited about their favorite toy. And remember that they are your trusted companion and there whenever you need a non-judgmental ear or warm friend to cuddle with when you’re sick. Just as you take care of them, let them take care of you.

MARCO ROSSI, PUBLISHER @WOODSTOCKCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sue Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Stephanie Benzee | stephanie.benzee@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The 2024 Woodstock Summer Concert Series kicked off on Saturday, May 11th with Night Ranger 2: Family Fun Night Series kicked off on Thursday, May 16th with Fairy Tale Night. 3: May Paint and Sip at Woodstock Arts was a gorgeous Luna Moth 4: Guardians of the Jukebox rocked the Woodstock Summer Concert Series on Saturday, June 8th. 5: Cody Bolden at Red, White, and Brews event 6: Family Fun Night Series: Fairy Tale Night 7: War Hippies at Red, White, and Brews event

business monthly

New Parking Deck

Building of a new parking deck with 635 spaces downtown has begun and will continue through September 20. Along with the parking deck, a development partner will build privately owned buildings onsite that will include spaces for offices, retail, and restaurants.

June Women's Luncheon

Amazing turnout for Kennesaw Business Association and Acworth Business Association's June Women's Luncheon. They hosted a social media panel discussion with local Atlanta social media managers.

Duet Dance Academy goes to Nationals

Canton dance company, Diet Dance Academy, went to Artists Simply Human (AHS) Nationals!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA HAGEN

Mobilizing a Community Nurturing a Garden,

THE COMMUNITY-FOCUSED DEDICATION OF MELANIE AND ROB OF TREFOIL GARDENS

Melanie and Rob started Trefoil Gardens in 2016. Since then, it has grown into a local community garden space unmatched in scale and impact. Their neighbors are involved, and the garden has grown to cover several once-grass-only yards.

Today, Trefoil Gardens includes rows of fruit trees, strawberries, asparagus, peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes, to name a few plants growing in April. They also grow flowers, which Melanie harvests and crafts into bouquets to sell at Woodstock Farm Fresh Market to help support the garden.

They describe their project as an “unintentional intentional” community. Rob says he wakes up every morning grateful to everyone in his neighborhood and community who has made the space available and nurtured its growth. He says, “We were just practicing in our yard, and people started talking to us about what we were doing and inviting us to do it in their yards, too.”

Rob and Melanie are active in their commitment to community: they offer open work days every Thursday, where they share their knowledge, informed by their background in permaculture, with people seeking to learn gardening or to form connections. Also on Thursdays, they host a free Community Yoga Practice.

CONTINUED >

Trefoil Gardens has been working with Woodstock to make fresh, locally grown food more accessible through Georgia’s Fresh 4 Less program. This program accommodates customers who use food stamps during market days.

Trefoil Gardens has spent the last 5 years working in the community to make fresh, locally grown food more accessible through Wholesome Wave, Georgia’s Georgia Fresh 4 Less program, doubling the value of SNAP (food stamps) and sharing that benefit with other vendors.

He points out that there are only convenience stores within walking distance of the market for SNAP shoppers to use their benefits, but there are two food banks in the same area. “This points to a serious need in our community,” says Rob, “where we have the Greenprints trail connecting our market directly with low-income housing all over and around Woodstock.”

Unfortunately, when they were renewing their UDSA SNAP authorization last month, they found out they would no longer be able to share this benefit with the market, leaving them as the sole provider of this vital service to our community. The Woodstock Office of Economic Development (OED) has expressed an interest in taking up the program, and Trefoil Gardens has offered to help with labor and support. In the meantime, this leaves a tremendous food access gap in our city.

“The project isn’t merely a garden space; it’s also an effort to nurture and share lasting and mutually beneficial resources, knowledge, and fellowship.”

“In the five years, we were able to extend these benefits to partner vendors, we grew this program to include almost every vendor who offered qualifying products. This gave shoppers so many options and improved equity for everyone,” Rob continues, “For every SNAP dollar that was swiped at our stand, up to $7 was infused into the local community. With our offer to help the Woodstock OED, we expect to see the program back up and running soon.” In the meantime, SNAP shoppers can continue to shop Trefoil Gardens’ fresh fruits and vegetables at 1⁄2 off.

Trefoil Gardens has grown into an asset to Cherokee County's community. The project isn’t merely a garden space; it’s also an effort to nurture and share lasting and mutually beneficial resources, knowledge, and fellowship.

Trefoil Gardens is at Woodstock Farm Fresh Market on Saturdays or Thursdays at its open farmstand and workdays. To get involved, visit trefoilgardens.com or @trefoilgardens on Instagram.

ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE

Local Favorites

Woodstock Flowers and Gifts

Woodstock Flowers and Gifts is the perfect choice for beautiful flowers and gifts for any occasion. They offer fresh flowers, green & blooming plants, gourmet baskets, chocolates, and balloon bouquets.

Bizarre Coffee

Bizarre Coffee is a funky and creative coffee shop located in Downtown Woodstock. Check out their summer flavors such as Blackberry Chai, Sweet Nectar, and Summer Strawb.

Deep Roots Wine Market

Deep Roots Wine Market offers a unique wine tasting experience with wines from all over the US, and visitors can also enjoy small plates from the kitchen.

DestinationPet of Woodstock

In search of excellent grooming or boarding services? Destination Pet specializes in dog daycare, luxury pet boarding and professional spa-style dog grooming services. And they are also a full-service animal hospital.

MadLife Stage & Studios

MadLife is Woodstock’s central concert venue. They host an Undiscovered Artist Showcase where up-and-coming musicians perform. Get tickets to see well-known local musicians and tribute bands at madlifestageandstudios.com .

Fun and Hospitality with The Popcorn Lady

ARTICLE BY SARA HAGEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE POPCORN LADY

Meet The Popcorn Lady, a business that has been around for 24 years and is now under the passionate leadership of a former fine-dining enthusiast who found his calling amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The person behind The Popcorn Lady, Todd Webster, has a background in fine dining. The pandemic led him to a brief experience in the mortgage industry. Despite the change, his love for food and hospitality never stopped, "I knew that time would be short-lived, and so I began looking for a business to buy. I knew I would never be happy until I found my own thing," he said.

The Popcorn Lady opportunity arrived at the perfect time. The previous owner was the original Popcorn Lady, Holly Levine. Webster has been working passionately at the helm, pushing for excellent food and hospitality in the Atlanta area. "Food is love," he says, a sentiment reflected in customers during every event The Popcorn Lady caters.

The Popcorn Lady is about more than just catering. "Personality is the secret ingredient. Anyone can pop corn; we offer an experience," Webster explains. They pop and scoop to order, preparing all their foods on-site at their scheduled events with a unique style and a personal touch. Preparing foods on-site lets kids see how popcorn, ice cream sundaes, and cotton candy are made, providing an extra source of fun to any kids party or all-ages event.

Have you ever smelled freshly popped popcorn outside of a movie theater? It instantly enhances any event. As a kid, do you remember trying your first cotton candy or movie-theater quality popcorn? It was likely a core memory. This is why The Popcorn Lady takes such products and personality so seriously.

They offer other treats like shaved ice, and DJ and karaoke services, to name a few.

The feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. A recent Google review says, "If you're looking for a company that cares and goes above and beyond to deliver stellar services, you need The Popcorn Lady. On top of being a dream to work with, they deliver top-notch customer service and quality products. I'm so grateful to have found them for all our school and community center events!"

The Popcorn Lady is a business that demonstrates the power of passion, hospitality, and of course, delicious food!

You can book The Popcorn Lady at popcornlady.com and follow them at @popcornladyatlanta on Instagram.

More about The Popcorn Lady:

• They serve more than just popcorn! Check out their catering services, which include shaved ice, ice cream sundae bar, cotton candy, snow cones, and so on.

• They offer DJ and Karaoke services

• They are available for lots of different event types, such as weddings, parties, and concerts

• They offer professional lighting packages

• Check out The Popcorn Lady at popcornlady.com and @popcornladyatlanta on Instagram

A Dedicated Community

Getting To Know

BellaRose Equestrian

“I always watched the Olympics with my parents. When the horses started coming out, I was like I want to do that. My parents took me to a riding facility, and I actually fell in love with it.”

For Miriam Offermanns, her BellaRose Equestrian Farm was a project of passion from the start. The farm’s namesake mare, “Milym BellaRose,” was born on the property with just one eye, so the previous owners asked Miriam to keep her filly at the farm, which quickly transformed into an ownership opportunity. Miriam knew the stars had aligned, and she could pass on her deep-seated passion and knowledge of horses on a greater scale through this prime equestrian facility. The riders whom Miriam coaches, alongside their esteemed horses, are a testament to her unwavering passion.

Dasha’s passion began at an early age. She said, “I always watched the Olympics with my parents. When the horses started coming out, I was like, I want to do that. My parents took me to a riding facility, and I actually fell in love with it."

She didn't waste any time. At an age when most kids were learning to tie their shoelaces, she was learning to ride. Her parents took her to a riding facility, and she was obsessed. Soon after, she began training professionally.

Dasha's love for the sport goes beyond the thrill of competition. For her, one of the most exhilarating aspects of horse

“These young riders develop not just their equestrian abilities but also confidence, responsibility, and lasting respect for animals.”

Dressage Federation (USDF) regionals on Miriam’s horse, fondly named Tinkerbell. She recently bought her first horse and hopes to continue gaining experience and accolades in the sport of eventing.

Miriam’s daughter, Mila, and Dasha’s younger sister, Zoe, are the next generation of riders. They are already enamored with horses and are becoming more skilled every day alongside their older role models.

riding is the sheer power of it. "You can tell everybody that you can handle a 1200-pound animal and control it," she said.

Lacey got her start a bit untraditionally. She didn’t start with horse riding in mind. When her mom bought a horse, Lacey fell in love with them. Fast forward to this year, and Lacey recently competed in the United States

These young riders develop not just their equestrian abilities but also confidence, responsibility, and lasting respect for animals. Their growth and accomplishments fuel Miriam's passion, making BellaRose Equestrian more than just a farm or training facility; it’s a lifelong love realized through a strong sense of community and camaraderie.

PROTECTING TOMORROW’S LEADERS

SafePath’s Dedication to Keeping Kids Safe

ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARUCHE PHOTOGRAPHY

Countless children in communities across our country, regardless of ethnic, socioeconomic or religious background, have suffered from abuse. In fact, one in 10 children experiences Child Sexual Abuse and Assault (CSAA) nationally. SafePath, Cobb County’s first and only Children’s Advocacy Center, fights this epidemic that threatens the safety and security of children across the country.

SafePath began its journey toward preserving and protecting the rights of Cobb County children in 1983, and shortly after, Jinger Robins, CEO,  joined the team. She got to work certifying the organization by the state and under the National Children’s Alliance enabling SafePath to open its Children's Advocacy Center. After

five years, SafePath helped pass child endangerment laws in Georgia. Today, they aim to reduce trauma in abused children through intervention, investigation, prosecution and treatment. They provide medical services, intervention and behavioral therapy to children who have suffered abuse, all for free. Meanwhile, professional help, including DFAX, law enforcement and mental health providers, are always on-site.

SafePath also incorporates small, intentional touches that sometimes make the biggest difference in a child’s experience. Take Glinda, SafePath’s community service dog, and her incredible breakthrough with a special needs child, for example. After SafePath

staff tried everything to encourage the overwhelmed child to participate in an interview, one last effort made by Glinda was successful. “I’ve realized Glinda can often do things for these children that we humans can’t,” explains Jinger.

With Cobb County growing in population and diversity every day, SafePath works to keep its promise of protection for every Cobb County child. Jinger dreams of a future where all community leaders and legislators understand and prioritize the safety of children. Community members can contribute to the mission of SafePath in many ways. Donations are always welcome on SafePath’s website. “We are very excited about partnering with SafePath and helping them fulfill their mission of ‘A Community Free of Child Abuse,” says SafePath partner Bill Watson of JRM Management.

Those looking to help in other ways can complete child abuse prevention training, join a community group that leads volunteer efforts and, most importantly, be aware of the signs of child abuse to report suspicious behavior.

Together we can make Cobb County a safe place for today’s children and tomorrow’s leaders to grow.

KNOW THE SIGNS:

As kids across East Cobb prepare for a new school year, SafePath aims to keep

those kids safe, comfortable and trauma-free. They urge Parents, teachers and other child supervisors to stay alert. While child abuse is a sad reality our community still faces, the school season can be a key time to identify signs of abuse and fight to prevent further abuse.

Remain vigilant to these telltale signs of abuse:

1. Crossing boundaries - Offenders are often seen pressing boundaries but are rarely caught in the act. If you see a boundary being crossed, describe the inappropriate behavior to the perpetrator. Implementing family rules about when and how adults should engage with your children is a great way to be proactive.

2. Inappropriate touch - Teaching kids bodily autonomy lets them know it is ok to say “no” to any behavior that makes them uncomfortable. Additionally, be on the lookout for inappropriate touches, such as hugging or placing an arm around a child in situations where these are unnecessary.

3. Monitor online behaviorUnfortunately, as the internet becomes a bigger part of childhood, so do the chances of abuse. Monitor the apps your children use and who they communicate with when online. You can also set limits to when and where they can use their devices.

A Whole Body Approach

Woodstock Pelvic Health specializes in the treatment of all pelvic health issues such as incontinence, pain with intimacy, pelvic pain for both men and women, interstitial cystitis, pelvic organ prolapse, birth prep and postpartum recovery. Call or text to schedule your appointment today!

Closing Deals in High Heels

At Tricia's Travel Club, I don't just offer travel planning; and tailored travel experience, carefully designed to align with your specific desires and preferences. Dive into the heart of adventure or unwind in the lap of luxury—your dream vacation is crafted with meticulous care. From thrilling cruises to group vacations, adrenaline-pumping adventures and romantic picturesque honeymoons, I curate experiences that leave lasting memories. Let’s Talk Travel!

Your journey begins with Tricia’s Travel Club www.triciastravelclub.com VB @triciastravelclub

AUGUST 2024

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 3RD

Woodstock

Arts Lantern

Series: Sounds of Georgia

Woodstock Arts Event Green | 7:30 PM

In one night of music, experience the best Macon-based soul artists such as Little Richard, Ray Charles, James Brown and Otis Redding. Take a ride on the Chattahoochee by enjoying hits from Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt and the Zach Brown Band. Get lost in the powerful musical moments of the Allman Brothers and Atlanta Rhythm Section.

AUGUST 3RD

Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner

MadLife Stage & Studios | 7:00 PM

Head Games is an Atlanta based professional tribute act that perfectly recreates the music of one of the best known musical groups in history, Foreigner! Head Games plays all of the top songs that bring back the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s singles that people loved then and love to sing along with now.

AUGUST 6TH

Kids’ Art Night with Ms. Lara

Woodstock Public Library | 4:00 PM

All artsy kids are invited to join us at the library for a fun art project with art teacher Lara M.! Ideal for ages 7 and older. Registration is required and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

CONTINUED >

SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN WOODSTOCK.

This data is a sampling of sold properties

“Marco Rossi exemplifies true professionalism and attention to detail. Every step of the way he gave it 110% and made us feel at ease. He took the stress out of a usually stressful situation of getting your home ready to sell and have multiple showings per day. He was able to get our house multiple offers within the first week of it being listed for sale! He knew we were under a time crunch and followed accordingly. Listen to what he says in order to get your house show ready! We trust him with everything! We will definitely use him again if needed. We highly refer Marco to anyone looking to sell or purchase a home.”

- Rocio B.

WOODSTOCK

CONTINUED

AUGUST 10TH

Woodstock Summer Concert Series - Who’s Bad Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater | 7:30 PM Who’s Bad’s power-packed performance of Michael Jackson’s catalog will get the crowd up on their feet. Who’s Bad’s 20th Anniversary Tour will thrill the WSCS audience with a power-packed performance of Michael Jackson’s original grooves and gravity-defying dance moves. This professional ensemble of musicians and dancers predates MJ’s passing and is the longest-running Michael Jackson tribute band in existence.

AUGUST 24TH

SUMMER KID BIZ EXPO

2335 Sixes Road @ River Church | 3:00 PM

ALL of the vendors are kid-owned businesses! As a community, supporting the efforts of kid-entrepreneurs can have a lasting impact on their lives! You’ll be blown away by their creativity, determination, and spirit! Kid Biz Expo is a non-profit organization where our mission is to provide experiences and opportunities for to learn life skills through the journey of entrepreneurship!

AUGUST 31ST

The Local Bloom

111 Elm St. | 11:00 AM

Enjoy this market event hosted by The Bloom Exchange. Peruse over 50 tents of small businesses and makers and experience live music and delicious food!