Woodstock, GA July 2024

Exploring Healthy Habits

As we approach the season of watermelons, sweat, and sun, I am inspired to explore and prioritize health. What's the easiest way to make the most positive impact? Discover what that means for yourself and try it. Remember, it can take months (or longer!) to implement a habit. Be kind to yourself. If you want to make changes, start small. Slow and steady does win the race, as tedious as it might feel!

Avoid mainstream and trendy advice. Fad diets and cleanses are not sustainable and less effective in the long term. You know your body better than any celebrity, influencer, or company. Try new things. This is all about your exploring what works best for your lifestyle.

Some timeless advice on your journey from Michael Pollan: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants."

SARA HAGEN, EDITOR @WOODSTOCKCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sue Collins | scollins@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 Learn

Exploring

Montage

Cliff’s

in Punta de Mita

1: Rally Point Grille donates to Cherokee County Homeless Vets Program. 2: Town Lake Optimist Club donates to Waymark Foster 3: Congratulations to the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten graduates! 4: Emma’s Flower Truck at Hippie Kids in Acworth 5: Burns and Blooms Workshop at Made Mercantile with Woodstock Candle Co. and Blooming With Lauren 6: The Lasting Laugh at Woodstock Arts Theater 7: Writing Workshop with author Sheryl Parbhoo

HearingLife Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to HearingLife of Woodstock on their Ribbon Cutting Ceremony! HearingLife provides personalized care and custom solutions to meet your individual hearing needs. HearingLife of Woodstock is located at 300 Creekstone Ridge. Give them a call at 770-516-9798 or visit https://www.hearinglife.com/ for more information!

Paper Scissors Cake Little Free Library Gets a Makeover

Did you know that Paper Scissors Cake's Little Free Library was the first in Cherokee County? She's named Lucy Loo and recently got a fresh makeover! Spreading bookish love since 2013.

Waymark Foster's OneDay FunDay

Nearly 200 people attended Waymark Foster's OneDay Funday for foster, adoptive, and group homes. Families enjoyed horseback riding, a Foam party, comedian Kenn Kington, illusionist Matthew Bishop, bounce houses, a Mechanical Bull, goodie bags, lunch, basketball, games, Canvas painting, art activities, face painting and more.

ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE

Local Favorites

WE HAVE CURATED A LIST OF SOME OF OUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES IN WOODSTOCK THAT WE ARE PROUD TO RECOMMEND.

Woodstock Flowers and Gifts

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

Bizarre Coffee is a funky and creative coffee shop located in Downtown Woodstock. With fun new seasonal flavors, smoothie bowls, and sandwiches, Bizarre is our favorite coffee shop.

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.

Pie Bar is our source for all pie needs and indulgences. From seasonal flavors like their Summer Strawberry Pie (in partnership with Bizarre Coffee) , to traditional flavors like pumpkin and key lime, Pie Bar has all a dessert lover could ever want. They also serve coffee and savory pies.

AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST

Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur

Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.

A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.

The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farmto-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace.

After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com

ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE

Lowcountry Magic

Montage Palmetto Bluff loves the environment. And you.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

When the baby alligators hatched at the edge of the May River at Montage Palmetto Bluff recently, they were born into the lap of luxury. The Montage staff naturalists were alerted and immediately worked to secure the hatchlings, who will stay with their mother for two years. They will snack on shrimp, small fish, and bugs like flies and snails, under the protective eye of their parents, the four-legged ones and the Montage staffers. Caution tape roped the area and nearby trail, so humans and reptiles alike would remain safe.

This incredible respect for the environment and the 20,000 acres of natural beauty

that surrounds the Montage property is evident in every detail at the luxury resort in South Carolina.

And, this month, programming is in place for guests to celebrate the Earth with education and immersive experiences to showcase the dolphins, raptors, reptiles, and sea turtles who make their homes in and along the May River.

Wake with the birds, grab a coffee in the inn lobby and join the Dawn Chorus at Palmetto Bluff. Over 300 species of birds, including an array of migrant birds during the spring, create a symphony as the maritime forest comes

“While honoring the environment is top of the list at Montage, it’s the hospitality and gorgeous amenities that will make you feel like you are the most important thing on earth.”

to life. If rising early isn’t your idea of fun, there are guided bird walks through the trails. Hear and see more than 50 species of birds, and learn about their habitats and the preservation efforts of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy.

Or, join oyster recycling efforts. The culinary and service teams are working to return 100 percent of the oyster shells back into the May River to help continue the oyster population. Baby oysters need shells to adhere to for their growth, so the oyster population growth is limited by the number of shells available in the waterways.

While honoring the environment is top of the list at Montage, it’s the hospitality and gorgeous amenities that will make you feel like you are the most important thing on earth. Recently renovated for the finest dining, The River House served us one of the best meals we’ve had this year. The waitstaff was gracious and attentive and the spirit-free cocktail the bartender created for me was beautiful and thoughtful. I felt seen.

Spending time at Montage means living your best life. Whether it’s grabbing a bike and tooling through the canyon of towering oaks or nosing around the neighborhoods of million dollar (second) homes in Palmetto Bluff, you’ll feel connected.

Kayaking, paddling or cruising on the May River is convenient, with 32 miles of waterfront on the property. Explore the Coastal Carolina marshlands, fly-fishing for redfish in the salt marsh flats or casting for largemouth in the freshwater ponds, trolling for trophies in the Atlantic or head out for an easy cruise to Hilton Head.

Montage’s programming, dining, multiple experiences, and luxe accommodations all reflect the very best of what makes the Lowcountry special. Go with wide eyes and you’ll find the serenity that only our Earth can provide.

MontageHotels.com/PalmettoBluff

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! Mention this ad to get 50% off your initial evaluation

ARTICLE

The Importance of Community Fire Safety

HAVE BEEN CONSISTENTLY SPREADING THIS MESSAGE FOR OVER 40 YEARS.

CLIFF’S FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Citizens of Georgia need to understand how fire safety affects their lives in what could be life or death by contacting companies like Cliff’s Fire.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), in 2023, Georgia ranked second in the number of fire deaths in the United States, with 29 fatalities. In 2022, 69 deaths were reported in home fire incidents in Georgia, saying that in the United States, at least one child dies every day from a home fire.

Fire safety is always essential, but when the season changes to spring and the weather gets dry and very unpredictable, it’s even more crucial that it’s taken seriously. Alerts will be sent to citizens when the air is too dry or windy to have any fires.

According to The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, a burn ban is issued yearly from May 1st to September 30th. This makes it illegal to burn tree limbs, leaves, and forest land or use air curtain destructors for land clearing. While this is the case, anytime one has a fire, there should be a fire extinguisher close by.

Tony Taylor, senior service tech at Cliff’s Fire for 25 years, echoed this sentiment, as he is passionate about the fire industry and keeping his home stocked with fire extinguishers.

“I take such pride in working in the fire protection industry because I know I’m making a difference in people’s businesses and livelihoods,” said Taylor. “It also provides me with the knowledge to protect my own family.”

Fire safety goes beyond ensuring that a fire extinguisher is present in homes; it includes protecting businesses, providing warnings with alarms, and maintaining the requirements for everything to do its job of protecting lives.

Cliff Bennett, President of the company he opened in 1982, cares deeply about the company and its work, which truly plays a crucial role in protecting lives.

“Not having the proper fire equipment and not having it properly serviced and maintained could lead to loss of property and, much more importantly, loss of someone’s life,” said Bennet. “Homeowners should be sure that they follow fire codes as well. Without doing so, this could have the same results.”

David Mulkey, General Manager of Cliff’s Fire, is passionate about what he and his fellow employees do. He enjoys being a part of a family business, having staff that do superior work in their professional areas, taking great pride in doing the work correctly, and being a staple throughout the community.

“I understand how crucial the operation of fire protection is when it’s needed," said Mulkey. “Ultimately, the end user is counting on their fire protection to work during an emergency situation, so it’s imperative that it functions properly, so lives and property are protected.”

Cliffs donate their services to several churches, ensuring that they have the proper fire protection, are involved in the state association board to improve regulations in the industry, train technicians as well as fire marshals and inspectors and also donate to the state burn foundation.

“There really is no other way than to have a team working together. We are blessed to have extremely good people in our company that are knowledgeable in their own areas of the fire protection industry,” said Bennett. “Good people that know fire alarms to notify of a fire, sprinkler experts to help protect buildings and kitchen specialists. Also, we are part of a larger team, the fire department, and the fire marshals, as the training we provide makes these important officials more aware of what our industry provides and their need to enforce the requirements of the products and services that we provide.”

Cliff’s is a well-rounded company that provides a broad range of fire protection services, including:

• Inspections

• Testing

• Maintenance

• Service

• Repairs

• Installation

“The fire protection industry, even though extremely important, is so very often overlooked. Good people who desire to work in it are really hard to find; there is a big need,” said Bennett. “We are thankful for the great folks that work for us and are continuing to strive toward making our industry a more professional, desirable field to have a career.”

Tranquility and Adventure in Punta de Mita

Welcome to the Wonderful  W Hotel in Punta de Mita. This luxurious seaside retreat nestled along the pristine shores of Mexico's Riviera Nayarit offers breathtaking ocean vistas and never-ending beaches. The intoxicating sounds of the sea embrace each visitor; providing an oceanic soundtrack for my stay. I was immediately taken to a state of peaceful mindfulness that simultaneously delivers relaxation and excitement.

Whether you choose to delve into the resplendent Indigenous culture of the region, a crafted culinary experience, or to frolic in the ocean; this destination is the epitome of modern luxury in a thoughtful, understatedly elegant, tropical paradise.

Shortly after arriving, I realized that my vacation was to be a time of rest, reflection, and challenge. We all need to feel like we are growing regardless of age or ability. All of us certainly need to heal from the pressures of life. W Hotel Punta de Mita offered everything I needed to reclaim my inner warrior, feel a profound sense of accomplishment, and get the peacefulness I needed to recharge myself for the rest of the year ahead.

W Hotel Punta De Mita is a global culinary adventure with a local Mexican twist. Dining at the incomparable Jean-Georges Vongerichten's beachside Spice Market and the hotel's main restaurant, Venazu, should be on your list. Tequila is King in Mexico; be sure to find the José Cuervo Speakeasy, a celebration of the Reserve De La Familia Tequila. Its anthology of tequila and delicious culinary pairings is a show-stopper! Stroll to the lobby bar and enjoy a signature mescal cocktail and fish tacos.

Parked upon the beach, you can find another crowd favorite, Chevycheria. A repurposed powder blue Chevy truck, the ceviche bar offers some of the most creative seafood dishes served up surfside. Enjoy Pescado Zarandeado, a classic Nayarit grilled fish served butterflied with roasted vegetables and salsa. And, if you are lucky enough to call one of the newly renovated beachfront villas your home away from home, the floating breakfast is an unforgettable experience you must try. CONTINUED >

“Whether you choose to delve into the resplendent Indigenous culture of the region, a crafted culinary experience, or to frolic in the ocean; this destination is the epitome of modern luxury in a thoughtful, understatedly elegant, tropical paradise.”

The glorious Mesa1 is a single-table, bespoke restaurant sculpted from a cross-section of a locally sourced enormous Parota tree trunk that seems to emerge from the freshwater lake. With only one seating per day, this "table uno" is one of the most exclusive outdoor dining experiences in the world. Walking to the restaurant is an adventure as guests are led through the forest and stream to the private island that is the focal point of the entire resort. Each in-house restaurant is an adventure into sheer perfection, from crafted cocktails to thoughtfully curated bites. Olé!

Embarking on my first adventure was an exhilarating journey into the ocean waves, mindfulness, and balance; I was to go surfing. After some onshore training, I paddled out, dipping my board into the surging ocean waves. The rush and anticipation were real. Mixed with the salty ocean spray and crisp

air, I noticed my heart pounding as I stood atop my board and caught my wave for the first time. The feeling of the ocean's energy beneath my slowly steadying legs took my breath away. Each wave taught me more about my physical and mental limitations, the ocean's rhythm, and my steadfast determination to hang ten, ultimately finding harmony between my life and the sea.

Though you may stumble and fall, each wipeout becomes a lesson in resilience and fortitude. And when you catch that first exhilarating ride, the feeling of freedom and accomplishment washes over you, igniting a passion that will draw you back to the waves time and time again.

The Mayan Cacao ceremony is one of healing and connection. It represents a strengthening of self, unity, peace, and the natural expansion of all living things. Guided by Gina

Cordova, a Mayan holistic therapist, the cacao ceremony sought to connect me to the physical ground beneath me and the sky, moon, and stars that dazzled above the sandy beaches. Eating and praying about the history of the Mayan culture, thoughtfully guided and enriched by interpretive music, was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

It was fantastic! My visit has reverberated in the weeks and months since I visited Punta de Mita. The ice plunge offers a transformative experience, merging the shock of icy waters with the exhilaration of vitality. Stepping into the ice-cold water, one confronts a rush of sensations, awakening every nerve and revitalizing the spirit. The chill ignites a primal heat, invigorating both mind and body, leaving a trail of renewed vigor and resilience behind. Each moment submerged in the frigid embrace is a test of courage, met with a profound sense of empowerment. Emerging from the icy waters, one carries a newfound appreciation for the harmony between stillness and action and a profound connection to the resilience within.

The Away Spa at W Hotel is not to be missed. Tucked into the jungle and seemingly woven around the ancient roots of gigantic fig trees, this nature-inspired spa delivers an indoor/outdoor relaxation experience designed to leave the guest at peace. Take a trip off the property and enjoy the neighboring town of Sayulita, a charming fishing village with incredible beaches. No one has ever met a stranger in Sayulita. It's an easy, fun,  and colorful atmosphere with incredible shopping and restaurants.

The local market, right in the square, has all the sights and sounds of a quaint seaside Mexican town without all the hustle and bustle. Be sure to stop by Chocobanana for a hand-dipped chocolate-covered frozen banana covered in coconut or sprinkles.

As I continue to travel and explore this mesmerizing world, W Hotel, Punta de Mita will remain one of the highlights of my travels so far. Here, I reclaimed my voice and refreshed my inner self, allowing me to grow without boundaries into my limitless future.

Closing Deals in High Heels

We are your one-stop solution for relocation services, providing compassionate assistance with downsizing, decluttering, and estate sales for full and partial liquidations. Bringing almost two decades of collective real estate experience in the northern Atlanta region, we have decided to channel our passion for helping families into a new venture dedicated to supporting seniors during life transitions.

JULY 4TH

Celebrate July 4th with Fleatwood Mac: Fleetwood Mac Tribute

MadLife Stage & Studios - 8722 Main St | 7:00 PM

Fleatwood Mac mystically captures the essence of the original Fleetwood Mac, taking their audience on a nostalgic, flashback journey to when they first heard the timeless hits that generations have come to love!

JULY 4TH

July 4th Spectacular

The Park at City Center | 10:00 AM

Celebrate America’s birthday by participating in the July 4th Spectacular Parade! The parade starts at 10 a.m. It begins at Woodstock Elementary School (230 Rope Mill Road) and travels down Rope Mill Road to Main Street. There it heads south on Main Street and ends at Sam’s Club just before Highway 92. The parade is approximately 1.3 miles long. There is no fee to participate in the parade with a float, vehicle, or group of walkers. Parade: 10AM Festival: 11AM Fireworks: 9PM

JULY 13TH

Aesop’s Fables on Stage!

Woodstock Arts Theater - 8534 Main St. | 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM

They say it takes a village to raise a child. These are stories that have been told to children for thousands of years across civilizations about who we want to be and how we want to treat each other. This production is perfect for families to come and explore these classic stories that have endured with us all for ages!

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

JULY 19TH

Outdoor Movie Series:

Top Gun: Maverick

Swift-Cantrell Park - 3140 Old 41 Highway | 6:00 PM

Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, etc. for their own comfort. No high-backed chairs, umbrellas, tents, pop-up canopies, etc. that could block the view of the movie for others. Food vendors and family-friendly activities will be available beginning at 6 PM.

JULY 20TH

Read Aloud to Beau the Reading Dog

Woodstock Public Library | 10:00 AM

Build literacy skills and read aloud to Beau the dog as part of the Caring Paws Reading Education Assistance Dogs program. Registration is required and time slots are 15 minutes each. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

JULY 21ST

Beginner Watercolor Class with Sunny of AsheqArt

Made Mercantile | 11:00 AM

Join Sunny Dillard in the studio at Made to learn watercolor painting!

FOOD, DRINKS + LIVE MUSIC

WAFFLE HOUSE AND NOTHING BUNDT CAKES ARE ON THE MENU

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3RD FROM 12PM-3PM

$20 RAFFLE TICKETS

WIN

+INJECTIONS, FILLERS, AND IV

HYDRATION ONSITE WITH REVITALINES WOODSTOCK

+LMNT RED LIGHT THERAPY + CBD

SKINCARE LINE

+MAKE YOUR OWN EXOTIC BOUQUET WITH BLOOMING WITH LAUREN

+PERMANENT JEWELRY STATION WITH PRETTY LITTLE LINX

+DRESS UP BOUTIQUE

+BIZARRE COFFEE

+CHEROKEE ROSE CANDLE CO.

...AND SO MUCH MORE!