East Cobb Business

Cobb Chamber accepting 2023 small business of the year applications

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Artisan Custom Closets Cobb Small Business of the Year
Artisan Custom Closets of East Cobb was the 2022 Cobb Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year.

Submitted information:

The Cobb Chamber is accepting nominations and applications for the 2023 Small Business of the Year awards. The deadline for nominations is Wednesday, February 1. Applications close on February 28.

In 1982, the Small Business of the Year awards were established to honor the important role that small businesses play in the Cobb community and the economy. For the 2023 competition, the Cobb Chamber will name the 2023 Small Business of the Year, the Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year, the Businesses to Watch – businesses that have launched three years ago or less – and the Next-Level of Excellence award winner. The Next-Level of Excellence award recognizes companies that have exceeded SBA size standards and are continuing to excel. 

Business owners can nominate themselves or other businesses. Nominees and applicants must:

  • Comply with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s size standards.
  • The applicant must be the owner, partner, or major shareholder of the business, and active in its day-to-day operations.
  • The business must be financially stable and operational for a minimum of three years – except for Businesses to Watch applicants, which are businesses that were established fewer than three years ago.
  • Businesses must be a member of the Cobb Chamber at the time the award is presented on May 8.

Once applications are submitted, each application is judged on business growth and performance, business challenges, unique and innovative approaches, community involvement and contributions, company culture, and employee relations. For the 2023 Small Business of the Year competition, an independent evaluation team will choose a Top 25, and from that group five finalists will continue in the competition for one to be named the 2023 Small Business of the Year. For Business To Watch and Next-Level of Excellence applicants, an independent evaluation team will choose the top three applicants for each award category. An overall winner for each award category will be chosen from the top three applicant pool. 

The winners of each award category will be announced and celebrated at the Small Business of the Year Luncheon on Monday, May 8 from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Coca-Cola Roxy.

Nominations and applications can be submitted at https://bit.ly/3IY6J7k. For more information on the Small Business of the Year Awards or to become a sponsor, contact Jani Dix at 770-859-2335 or jdix@cobbchamber.org.

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East Cobb Trader Joe’s reopens after temporary closure

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East Cobb Trader Joe's temporarily closed

UPDATED, SATURDAY, 2:20 P.M.

The store has reopened.

ORIGINAL POST:

For at least a couple of days, the Trader Joe’s at Pinestraw Plaza (4250 Roswell Road) has been closed due to plumbing issues.

When we went by on Friday afternoon, two employees were giving customers that news, and it was an odd sight to see that part of the retail center’s parking lot empty of vehicles.

They didn’t indicate when the store would reopen, but apparently some pipes burst. Not long after we took the above photo, a repair vehicle was parked near the entrance.

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Westfield Tavern opening soon in former East Cobb Tavern space

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Westfield Tavern opening East Cobb

Those behind the forthcoming Westfield Tavern at the Shallowford Corners Shopping Center say they’re getting closer to opening, and they got a big boost in the process last week.

Cobb commissioners approved on a consent agenda an item to grant a beer, wine, liquor and Sunday pouring license to Westfield Tavern, which is set to occupy the former East Cobb Tavern and Keegan’s Public House space.

Managing partner Erik Tierney told East Cobb News Monday that he’s hoping to open the doors in a couple of weeks, but couldn’t say exactly when.

He’s still hiring a staff and “waiting on a few other things” regarding licensing and permitting from Cobb County.

A veteran of the Atlanta pub and community tavern scene, Tierney said Westfield Tavern will be a “family-friendly community tavern” much like his Whitehall Tavern, which opened in Buckhead at the Peachtree Battle Shopping Center near Piedmont Hospital in 2011.

His restaurant group also includes the Creatwood Tavern in Smyrna, which features a rooftop patio.

While there’s a sports bar-type atmosphere, Tierney said he wants Westfield Tavern to exude a real community feel—it’s named after an adjacent subdivision on Shallowford Road—and will include an area for kids’ games.

The business also plans to get involved as a sponsor and partner in community activities, especially those involving youth and in the Pope, Lassiter and other school communities.

In doing the market research, Tierney said the demographics are very similar to Whitehall Tavern—40 and over and those raising children.

“It works very well down there,” he said in reference of the Buckhead location’s concept, “and I think it’s replicable here.”

The Westfield Tavern menu, he said, will also reflect those similarities (here’s Whitehall’s), including a number of kids’ items.

While Westfield will be located in the heart of the “JOSH” area soon to welcome East Cobb Church and new residential development, Tierney said its proximity to Roswell also is ideal.

“We’re trying to create this as a destination,” he said.

East Cobb Tavern opened in Jan. 2020, but closed soon after due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It briefly reopened then shut again in early 2021 in an attempt to find new ownership.

But that didn’t materialize, and the premises were vacant until last fall, when plans for the Westfield Tavern got underway.

Westfield Tavern was initially denied an alcohol license due to distance requirements under Cobb ordinances, but the Cobb License Review Board reversed that decision, which was upheld by Cobb commissioners last week.

That’s a standard pattern for many restaurants and bars in Cobb (as we noted in March 2021 about the Flying Biscuit Cafe opening).

Westfield Tavern’s opening hours will be Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. The address is 4401 Shallowford Road Suite 13.

Tierney said anyone interested in applying for positions at Westfield can email info@westfield-tavern.com.

Tierney, who hails from Ireland and previously was a manager of the now-closed Ri Ra Tavern in Midtown Atlanta as well as Meehan’s Public House in Atlantic Station, said that while Westfield Tavern won’t be following as a true Irish pub, “we’ll still have Guinness on tap,” he said.

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The Avenue East Cobb raises $4.2K for Habitat in holiday fundraiser

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The Avenue East Cobb holiday events

Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta announced this week that The Avenue East Cobb and its merchants raised $4,266 in its inaugural holiday partnership.

A total of $3,015 came from proceeds from ticket sales the East Cobb retail center held, including Experiences with Santa and Storytime with Santa.

Another $1,251 also raised from the Kendra Scott jewelry store at The Avenue East Cobb. The Habitat chapter featured a table at each event offering more information on the organization’s mission and how to get involved.

“We are so happy the amazing team at Avenue East Cobb and Kendra Scott selected us to be the benefactor of these popular events,” said Jessica Gill, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, said in a statement. “We look forward to a long partnership bettering our community together.”

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East Cobb Biz Update: Pure Barre opening date is Dec. 26

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Pure Barre East Cobb opens

We’ve been in touch with Jenna Scearce, owner of the forthcoming Pure Barre fitness studio at Parkaire Landing, which has been promoting its opening with founding memberships and other specials.

She said this week that a soft opening will start Monday, Dec. 26, the day after Christmas. Normal hours include classes that start at 7:15 a.m. with the last at 5:30 p.m. (there’s a daily schedule at the link above).

There have been some appointment-only classes for those founding members, and those will continue through March, when a grand opening is planned. Pure Barre also has had some joint events with CycleBar, also located at Parkaire Landing (4880 Lower Roswell Road).

Pure Barre is located in the former Draisen Edwards Music space near the McCray’s Tavern, and is the latest in the barre concept to come to East Cobb, along with barre3 at The Avenue East Cobb.

Barre is a fitness concept that incorporates ballet, yoga and Pilates into a full-body, muscle endurance workout (intro info here).

Pure Barre, which has more than 600 locations in North America, also has studios in Inman Park, Chastain Park, Buckhead and Westside in Atlanta, Kennesaw, Vinings, Roswell, Alpharetta, Dunwoody and Brookhaven.

1st Anniversary Celebration

Clara Goncalves Vanilla Cafe e Gelato at The Avenue East Cobb (4475 Roswell Road) checked in this week to alert us to the first anniversary of the business (our post from last year) that’s coming on Jan. 8.

They’re giving out treats and welcoming the public from 3-6 p.m. that day.

Send Us Your Business News!

Opening a business or know someone who is? Marking an anniversary or milestone? Send your information to editor@eastcobbbnews.com and we’ll share it with the public. You can send releases and photos, and please let us know your opening days/hours and provide links to how to find you online.

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Engaged Wedding Library service opens at Paper Mill Village

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Engaged Wedding Library opens Paper Mill Village
Allie Heineman and Stephanie Whitaker of Engaged Atlanta; photo by ENewbern Photography

A concierge service that helps couples plan for weddings has opened at Paper Mill Village.

It’s called Engaged Wedding Library, and it’s the second such location opened by Stephanie Whitaker, whose original business is in Birmingham, England that she started in 2007.

She and her consultants work with vendor partners “based on a thorough vetting process and use that library of vendors to help couples build a wedding team that perfectly suits their style, location and budget,” according to a company release.

She said that the goal “is to match each bride and groom to the perfect team of wedding vendors . . . While the Internet is a great resource for finding hundreds of options, it’s easy to become overwhelmed trying to figure out which ones are professional and a good fit for their unique needs. We help them get a clear vision for their wedding, set up meetings with local vendors that match their style and budget criteria, teach them about the planning process and give them some fun goodies to celebrate this exciting time in their lives. Brides and grooms leave Engaged more informed and less stressed, with custom vendor connections and a plan for their next steps.”

There is a one-time fee of $99 to become a “Library Member” that includes up to four planning meetings to become educated on vendor costs, get an overview of the planning process and plug into a system to keep planning on track.

Members also get unlimited email correspondence with the Engaged experts, the Engaged Handbook with a listing of vendors, and access to the perks and discounts offered by Engaged vendor partners.

Whitaker said most discounts range from $50 to $150 off and range from wedding gowns to honeymoon suites. Members also receive tickets to local bridal shows that Engaged partners with and conducts on its own.

Engaged also offers wedding day management services.

Whitaker’s Birmingham business serves more than 100 local vendors and 300 couples annually.

Engaged Wedding Library is located at 255 Village Parkway, Suite 510.

For more information, visit engagedatlanta.com.

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The Avenue East Cobb redevelopment construction work begins

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The Avenue East Cobb construction work
Fencing around the back portion of The Avenue East Cobb has prompted some significant traffic detours.

Right before the holiday shopping season got underway, a sizable portion of the back parking lot at The Avenue East Cobb was being fenced off.

It’s the start of a redevelopment plan we’ve been following for some months, to include a public plaza and two “jewel box” buildings with restaurants and retail, as well as optional valet parking.

“Our intention is to transform AEC into a more walkable and pedestrian-friendly destination, so the current, short-term disruption to traffic flow is required to reach that goal,” said Britni Johnson, a spokeswoman for North American Properties, which manages the retail center on Roswell Road.

The groundbreaking was in August, but nothing further has happened until now to begin work on the “Central Boulevard” plan that’s scheduled to be completed early next year.

The barricades and fencing went up earlier this month, and the loss of a few dozen parking places and detours caused some traffic issues on Black Friday and over the weekend.

What you can’t do any longer—and this change is permanent—is use the traffic lane closest to the back of the main building, between the former Bravura store and what was Stockyard Burgers and Bones.

That’s where Central Boulevard will be located, featuring the public plaza and the valet service.

The jewel boxes will be constructed in the parking lot area between that building and the Michael’s craft store.

For the time being, there is no access along the back traffic lane between the Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma.

There is some limited parking in that area, including access to Michael’s, with detour signs and arrows on the pavement directing motorists around the fencing.

There were some complaints on social media about the construction work, especially the timing given the holidays.

North American Properties said in response to questions from East Cobb News that 88 parking spaces have been fenced off for the construction, with all but 20 to reopen when the project is.complete.

Johnson said construction is beginning late due to delays in getting necessary permits.

She said the building permit took longer than expected, and that while construction could have begun in September, when a civil permit was issued, “we chose to wait until building construction could officially get underway to reduce the amount of disturbance time for locals.”

She said the decision to begin work now, at the start of the holidays, was necessary “to keep the project on track for a summer 2023 delivery.”

Johnson said the “no thru traffic section” was opened on Black Friday and it is open again now.

The Avenue has scheduled a number of holiday events, including caroling this Friday, a live music concert next week and a Menorah lighting on Dec. 18.

When asked how extra traffic for weekend shopping and holiday events would be handled, Johnson said that “We are actively working with our general contractor to determine a low-impact solution for keeping the drive aisle open throughout the project while also moving construction forward in a timely manner.”

The Avenue East Cobb construction work
The planned “Central Boulevard” will be built between the main and back buildings at The Avenue East Cobb.

The Avenue East Cobb construction workA public plaza will be built at the former Bravura store.

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A gift guide for shopping small in East Cobb this holiday season 

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East Cobb shopping small gift guide

For the holiday season we’re encouraging East Cobb residents to really keep it local with their shopping. East Cobb News contributor Tamar Levy has rounded up a few small businesses that provide a truly authentic community touch with their products, goods, services and customer connection.

Last Saturday was the traditional “Shop Small” promotion begun more than a decade ago by American Express to help promote community-focused businesses, especially retailers.

With additional promotions such as Cyber Monday, the shopping small ethos continues through the holiday season.

Levy will be contributing other holiday stories over the coming weeks. We’ll also be adding more freelancers in the new year to help us cover more of the news you’ve come to expect from East Cobb News.

In a recent reader survey, a number of you said you wanted more news and coverage of local businesses, and here’s an example of what we have in mind. Feel free to tell us how we’re doing.

By Tamar Levy

East Cobb is home to many unique small businesses, and this holiday season is a great opportunity to support them. From children’s items to home goods to wellness, you are bound to find something for everyone you are shopping for.  

Pineapple Porch Boutique 

Embrace your passion for southern hospitality and gracious living in an intimate shopping experience. This store has something for everyone on your list and items you won’t see anywhere else. They carry a wide variety of gifts and provide complimentary gift wrap as well.

1255 Johnson Ferry Rd, Unit 40 
Marietta, GA 30068 
(678) 398-9667
@pineappleporchboutique

The Orange Iris 

The Orange Iris presents a carefully curated collection of pieces for baby, child and her.  From the most traditional children’s clothing to whimsical gifts for your friend, they truly have something for everyone. And looking for something personalized? They have an extensive selection of both classic and modern monograms. 

255 Village Pkwy, Unit 160 
Marietta, GA 30067 
678-667-3526 
@theorangeiris 

Willow Park 

A curated and unique collection of women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. The items you’ll find in this store are one of a kind and will help you stand out during the holiday season. With new pieces arriving frequently, you are bound to find something new for your closet here. 

255 Village Pkwy, Unit 170 
Marietta, GA 30067 
(404) 302-7138 
@willowparkboutique 

Olea Oliva! business anniversary

Olea Oliva 

This shop is the perfect place for the foodie. They carry spices, balsamic vinegars and olive oils. This family-owned business sells the finest oils and vinegars from around the world. In addition to shopping at their incredible taproom, you can enjoy a culinary experience through their various events. The perfect idea for a night out in East Cobb. 

4475 Roswell Rd, Unit 1725 
Marietta, GA 30062 
(770) 321- 0099
@oleaolivausa

Rose Jasmine Flowers and Décor 

This is the first flower shop in Atlanta to offer same day fresh arrangements with the option of delivery as well. In addition to typical flower arrangements, they carry beautiful, handcrafted flower boxes. This high-end flower and décor studio is the newest floral shop to East Cobb that has already made a lasting impression. 

255 Village Pkwy NE, Unit 740 
Marietta, GA 30067 
(404) 494-6473 
@rosejasmineatl 

Skin Care by Gabriela 

This five-star spa offers several treatments and services just for your skin. From light therapy to dermaplaning to luxury facials, they can do it all for your skin. Their team of experts will make you feel right at home no matter where you are on your skincare journey. 

286 Village Pkwy,  
Marietta, GA 30067 
(770)-226-9990 
@skincarebygabriela 

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Mr. Clean Car Wash to hold grand reopening events in East Cobb

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Mr. Clean Car Wash reopens East Cobb

After closing in March 2021 due to a fire, Mr. Clean Car Wash reopened in East Cobb earlier this month and is holding several events and specials this week.

The combo car wash and oil change service is located at 3950 Shallowford Road, adjacent to a CVS store that is closing.

The new facility has been entirely rebuilt and expanded from the original building.

Services include self- and full-service car washes, detailing and Jiffy Lube oil changes for all types of vehicles.

A ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Thursday at 11 a.m. with representatives of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce and an appearance by the Morning Show crew from 94.9 The Bull and comedian Brian Moote for what’s being billed as “clean comedy.”

Free express car washes will be offered to all customers between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Thursday, Dec. 1 to Saturday, Dec. 3, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4.

Customers who purchase a single wash after that will get unlimited washes for their first month.

Mr. Clean has 11 locations in Georgia and four in Florida.

Updates for the East Cobb location are provided on its Facebook page.

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Kai’s and Ko restaurant to hold ribbon-cutting for relaunch

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Kai's and Ko restaurant relaunching

Kai’s & Ko Restaurant and Lounge, located at 2520 E. Piedmont Road, Suite 106, in the Sprayberry Collection shopping center, is relaunching its business under new management.

A ribbon-cutting will take place on Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. and will include officials from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.

Kai’s opened in 2021 in the former Cafe 33 space, and is expanding its operations to include live entertainment and new menu items.

Kai’s will also be available for private events.

“We want to become an integral part of the Cobb community by supporting the community and providing a top service location with delicious menu items and entertainment,” owner Steve Cleveland said in a statement.

The business is partnering with Deep Waters Community Church to collaborate on ways to support the local community.

The relaunch events include the following:

  • Happy Hour from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. with karaoke until 11 p.m.;
  • Happy Hour Dec. 9 from 4-8 pm. and a live performance by BET Hip Hop Award winner Young Dro;
  • Brunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 10 with the sounds of Kenny Bentley & Friends performing from 1-3 p.m.;
  • Day Party on Dec. 10 from 4-9 pm with R&B Artist “Nathaniel the Great” performing;
  • Soulful Sunday Dec. 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a soul food menu.

For more information, go to www.kaisnko.com or call (404) 451-5265.

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Cleaver and Cork opens in East Cobb; Roll On In closes

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Cleaver and Cork opens East Cobb

The fourth location of the Cleaver and Cork butcher shop opened in late October in the Shops at Woodlawn (1062 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 162-D, next to Big Peach Running Company).

Cleaver and Cork describes itself as a family-owned artisanal butcher with a full line of premium meats as well as seafood, side dishes, cheese, produce, coffee, spices, charcuterie products and more.

The company is run by Chad and Audrey Stine, both former meat industry and sales representatives. They founded their first butcher shop in Sharpsburg, Ga., in 2018, then in nearby Newnan the next year. A store on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta also recently opened.

Another high-end butcher shop, the NY Butcher Shoppe, is tentatively scheduled to open in December at The Avenue East Cobb, but a specific date hasn’t been announced.

Cleaver and Cork is open Tuesday-Friday from 10-6, Saturday 10-5 and is closed on Sunday. Phone: 678-402-6996.

A vacancy at Woodlawn Point

A reader got in touch to say she heard that the Roll On In Sushi and Burrito eatery (1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 365) had recently closed, and saw a hand-written note on the door indicating that when she stopped for a look.

We saw the same thing; inside the restaurant’s furniture and insignia were still there. The location’s social media accounts have been taken down, although it’s still listed on the company’s website.Roll On In closes East Cobb

Roll On In is an Ohio-based Asian-Tex-Mex casual fusion chain whose first location in Georgia was in East Cobb, in March 2020.

Suzanne and Monte Jump, a married couple with roots in the community, were the proprietors, after years of working in the corporate restaurant industry.

We’ve left a message with Roll On In’s corporate office for more information.

Started in 2016, Roll On In featured such dishes as wanton tacos, sushi donuts and dumplings.

It currently operates 14 restaurants in six states, including two others in Georgia. Earlier this year it closed its original restaurant in Lebanon, Ohio, where it now has a cafe inside a local YMCA.

Ted’s closing for the holidays

Ted’s Montana Grill has announced it will be closing for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at all of its locations, including Parkaire Landing (640 Johnson Ferry Road).

It’s the second year in a row the Atlanta-based steakhouse chain, which has 11 metro locations, has opted to close for the holidays so employees can spend time with their families.

“We recognize the importance of spending quality time with loved ones,” Ted’s CEO and Co-founder George McKerrow said in a statement. “The holidays are all about giving back and making memories with the people who matter the most.”

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Mike and Judy Boyce named 2022 East Cobb Citizens of the Year

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East Cobb Citizens of the Year 2022
Judy Boyce is flanked by Kim and Michael Paris of the East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.

Mike Boyce, the late Cobb Commission Chairman, and his wife Judy Boyce were named the 2022 East Cobb Citizens of the Year Thursday morning.

The announcement came at a breakfast of the East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce at Indian Hills Country Club.

Mike Boyce, who died earlier this year at the age of 72, and his wife were active in the East Cobb community long before he was elected in 2016.

Their activities included MUST Ministries, Mt. Bethel Church and veterans and military organizations. He was a retired Marine Corps colonel who was a leader of a men’s ministry at Mt. Bethel and helped found a veterans support center.

Judy Boyce is a retired Delta Air Lines flight attendant who has been active with the Cobb Republican Women’s Club and other political campaigns and volunteer activities.

They include the Daughters of the American Revolution, Cobb Master Gardeners, the Chattahoochee Plantation Women’s Club, the Cobb Center for Children and Young Adults and the Cobb Library Foundation.

Also on Thursday, Cobb officials were on hand at the North Cobb Regional Library to dedicate the Mike Boyce Military Collection, including his many books on military history, and reading room named in his honor.

The Boyces were avid supporters of libraries. At the January 2018 ribbon-cutting for the Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center, they contributed $5,000 and had a study room named for them.

A Republican, Mike Boyce ran for a second term in 2020 but was defeated by Democratic commissioner Lisa Cupid.

In January, he was participating in a leadership seminar in Indiana, at the University of Notre Dame, his alma mater, when he suffered two strokes and died.

“He had never been happier than he was in the past few months, participating in this program, bicycling to campus and interacting with and mentoring students,” Judy Boyce said at the time. “He was having the time of his life.”

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Cookie Nip Studio Kitchen to hold grand opening Saturday

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If you’re interested in learning about cookie-making and the bakery arts, there’s a new business in East Cobb devoted to doing that.Cookie Nip Studio Kitchen grand opening

The Cookie Nip Studio Kitchen is holding a grand opening Saturday from 12-6 at its location in the East Lake Shopping Center (2211 Roswell Road, Suite 154, next to the Cajun Meat Co.).

Owner Michelle Gowan, a former teacher, said the business is “a classroom kitchen dedicated to the bakery arts. We teach classes for kids and adults in sugar cookies, cake decorating and baking sweet treats. In addition, we offer an event space for birthday parties, baby showers and corporate events.”

The grand opening will include baking instructors and sugar artists offering free demos and plenty of samples of their goods.

Here’s more about Cookie Nip, which evolved from The Cookie School that Gowan started after retiring from the classroom.

Cookie Nip also offers baking “camps” and other special events and sells baking supplies.

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East Cobb business anniversaries: Olea Oliva! celebrates 7 years

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Olea Oliva business anniversary
Smita Daya treats customers to homemade soup and salad from her kitchen at Olea Oliva! for the store’s anniversary.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Olea Oliva! owner Smita Daya had to pivot, like many business owners did.

Her gourmet spices, olive oil and balsemic vinegar “taproom” at The Avenue East Cobb is an expansion of the initial space she leased at what is now the Vanilla Café e Gelato.

Equipped with a full kitchen for her cooking workshops, Daya used it to prepare meals for health care workers at the Wellstar East Cobb Health Park.

This past weekend, to mark four years in the new space and seven years in business, Daya offered complimentary tastings of the plant-based, olive oil-rich diet she has been passionate about spreading since she first opened her doors.

She served roasted butternut squash soup and salad to anyone who sat down at the table during a special anniversary celebration on Saturday.

She got the squash from nearby Martin’s Garden at Coleman Farms, blending in fresh ginger and turmeric and a homemade pesto of arugula, basil and smoked olives, then topped it with some seed oil.

Her husband Dilip greeted customers in the front who peruse the counter tops with a wide variety of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, herbal teas and other artisanal food items.

The kitchen is where she offers cooking workshops. The author of a 2018 book on healthy cooking, Daya said being able to offer more of those in-person events has been a big part of the evolution of Olea Oliva! into what she first envisioned.

The store also carries some boutique wines, and has started a wine club that includes in-store tasting events.

While adaptations have been continuous, she said her formula for success is a simple one:

“You just keep at it, you just keep working,” Daya said.

Olea Oliva! business anniversary

Olea Oliva! business anniversary

Olea Oliva! business anniversary

Olea Oliva! business anniversary

Olea Oliva!
4475 Roswell Road
Suite 1725
Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

This is the first in an occasional series of stories about East Cobb businesses marking anniversaries, and how they’ve adapted to changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and closures.

If you’d like to suggest a business for East Cobb News to profile, contact us: editor@eastcobbnews.com.

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East Cobb restaurant update: Cherokee Chophouse, Chopt openings

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Cherokee Chophouse

More than two years after the Cherokee Cattle Co. closed on Canton Road, its long-promised successor is set to open.

Cherokee Chophouse will serve its first meals Wednesday for dinner, according to the restaurant’s Facebook page on Sunday.

Updates on that account have been picking up in recent weeks as final permitting and licensing took place.

“It’s the final countdown!⏳Enjoy all the classic dishes and extraordinary new ones at the ALL NEW Cherokee Chophouse!” said another post on Sunday.

Cherokee Chophouse got an “A” score in a health inspection last week, and released a menu that emphasizes, as the new name implies, steaks and specialty meats.

Among them are “signature cuts” supplied exclusively to Cherokee Chophouse from “specific Midwestern ranches.”

Cherokee Chophouse is part of a restaurant group owned by Gus Tselios that includes the nearby Marietta Fish Market, the Marietta Diner and Yeero Village on Sandy Plains Road at Highway 92.

He closed Cherokee Cattle Co. at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, then said he would reopen under a new name and new menu after some remodeling, according to ToNeTo.

But the remodeling on an older building was extensive, according to that report, and it looks very different from its predecessor.

Cherokee Chophouse (2710 Canton Road) will be open from 4-9 p.m. daily and is accepting reservations via OpenTable.

Chopt Gives Charity precedes opening

We’ve reported previously that the salad concept chain Chopt is set to open on Wednesday in the former California Pizza Kitchen space in Pine Straw Plaza (4250 Roswell Road, Suite 630).

On Tuesday, it will hold a Chopt Gives Charity event that will benefit HOPE Atlanta, its designated charity, wich helps people challenged by food and housing insecurity.

The restaurant will donate 100 percent of the proceeds during designated times on Tuesday.

Patrons can dine in in from 11:30 a.m.—2 p.m. or 5—7:30 p.m. or by ordering online or via the Chopt mobile app.

Chopt’s normal business hours will be Monday-Saturday from 10:30 a.m.—9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.—8 p.m.

 

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Cobb school district to hold job fair for support positions

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The Cobb County School District will be conducting interviews for a number of staff support positions at a job fair in early December.Campbell High School lockdown

The fair takes place on Tuesday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cobb Energy Centre (2800 Galleria Parkway).

Open positions include bus drivers, food nutrition workers, school nurses, substitute teachers, custodians, and campus police. The job fair will also include positions with the maintenance, fleet maintenance, and special education departments.

Ahead of the job fair, candidates can preview current vacancies by clicking here.

Online registration is available by clicking here; and a district job application can be completed in advance by clicking here.

Cobb school district staffers will be at the fair to assist those who are unable to submit an advance application.

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Cobb police chief to speak to East Cobb Area Chamber Council

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Cobb Police Chief Stuart VanHoozer is the featured speaker at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s East Cobb Area Council breakfast next Thursday.Stuart VanHoozer, Cobb Police Chief

A 32-year department veteran, VanHoozer was appointed in May. He will provide updates about the department, including the construction of a new precinct in East Cobb, as well as policing issues that include gang activities in schools.

The Council meeting begins at 7:30 a.m. next Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive).

The event also includes the announcement of the 2022 East Cobb Citizen of the Year.

Tickets are $25 for Cobb Chamber members and $35 for general admission. Registration closes and refunds will no longer be available after November 8. Walk-up admissions and payment cannot be granted.

For information and to register, click here.

This event is sponsored by Series Presenting Sponsor, Kaiser Permanente, and Program Sponsor, Cobb EMC.

 

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East Cobb Biz Update: Marshalls, Chopt announce opening dates

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Marshalls East Cobb opening date

Our inbox was hopping this morning with early November opening dates announced for the East Cobb locations of Marshalls and Chopt.

The former will be opening to the public on Thursday, Nov. 3, according to a release sent by the Massachusetts-based off-price retailer.

Marshalls is taking up some of the space formerly occupied by Stein Mart at Merchant’s Walk (1311 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 424). It’s a relocation of the Marshalls at East Lake (2203 Roswell Road) and will contain 24,727 square feet.

The store hours will be as follows:

  • 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday
  • 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays

“Our newest store in Marietta will offer an ever-changing selection of high-quality, on-trend, and brand-name merchandise at the amazing prices that Marshalls is known for. We’re excited to bring this experience and exceptional values from fashion and beauty to home and more to a new neighborhood,” Marshalls president Tim Miner said in the release. “With thousands of new items delivered to our stores every day, we strive to provide our shoppers with amazing brands every time they shop.”

A store closing announcement isn’t posted outside the East Lake Marshalls, which remains open for the time being, but there’s a storewide clearance sale sign at the entrance.

Just across Johnson Ferry at Pine Straw Plaza, finishing touches are being put on Chopt, a salad concept eatery which we noted last month is being renovated completely in the former space of California Pizza Kitchen.

Chopt sent word today that the first day of business at the new East Cobb location (4250 Roswell Road, Suite 630) will be Wednesday, Nov. 9.

It’s one of two Chopt openings in metro Atlanta—another is in Peachtree Corners next week—making it six in the area.

Chopt offers a variety of salad options with more than 18 “shockingly delicious dressings,” according to a company release, as well as wraps and sandwiches.

The East Cobb location includes 2,513 square feet, indoor seating for 46, a patio for 30, as well as curbside pickup and self-serve kiosks.

The day before an opening Chopt designates a community non-profit to receive 100 percent of proceeds for what it calls a “day of giving.” The East Cobb and Peachtree Corners locations are partnering with HOPE Atlanta, which helps people challenged by food and housing insecurity.

Patrons can contribute on Tuesday, Nov. 8 by dining in from 11:30 a.m.—2 p.m. or 5—7:30 p.m. or by ordering online or via the Chopt mobile app.

Chopt’s normal business hours will be Monday-Saturday from 10:30 a.m.—9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.—8 p.m.

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Ford Smith opens pop-up art gallery at The Avenue East Cobb

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Ford Smith opens The Avenue East Cobb

Ford Smith Fine Art, a fine art studio and gallery started by the Roswell-based husband-wife artist duo of Ford and Christi Smith, will operate a pop-up gallery at The Avenue East Cobb through the end of 2022.

North American Properties, the retail center’s management company, announced that a grand opening will take  place Friday from 6-9 p.m. at the Ford Smith pop-up space located between the Sephora and Xfinity stores in the former Simply Mac space.

The event is free and open to the public.

Ford Smith will operate the 3,000-square-foot gallery at The Avenue through the end of December, selling original paintings and fine art limited editions. The hours are Wednesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NAP said the grand opening will feature the following:

  • A meet-and-greet with Ford Smith and artist/glass sculptor Eddie Freeland
  • The unveiling of new and limited-edition works, including a brand-new collection of Small Wonders originals, and smaller-size, collaborative “In Concert” mixed media paintings created from an archival giclée of a Ford Smith painting sculpted in glass, dipped in resin, and embellished by Eddie Freeland
  • Complimentary wine/champagne and bites from local restaurants
  • Fine art prizes such as a Ford Smith limited-edition, full-size/hand-embellished canvas painting
  • Special pricing on select artwork (offer only valid during GO)

More about Ford Smith Fine Art can be found by clicking here.

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Ex-Ga. Tech basketball star opens sports lounge in NE Cobb

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Ex-Georgia Tech basketball star opens sports bar NE Cobb

A ribbon-cutting was held last week for the opening of Bar 44, a sports lounge on Canton Road in Northeast Cobb.

Among the dignitaries on hand were Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell and representatives from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.

The business gets its name from Alade Aminu, one of three partners in the venture who played basketball at Georgia Tech from 2005-2009.

Aminu wore No. 44 for the Yellow Jackets and later played professional basketball with the Miami Heat of the NBA, then Europe, Turkey, Israel and Lebanon.

He also helped Nigeria’s national team qualify for the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

Aminu said Bar 44 is an “upscale” sports lounge serving “elevated” bar food, cocktails, hookah and a weekend brunch.

The menu also includes wings, chicken dishes, salads and tacos.

Bar 44 features 15 large screen televisions for sports viewing and a lounge area “giving patrons a skybox feel.”

“I noticed that while living in Marietta, there wasn’t anywhere to go and watch the game with the elevated vibe I was looking for,” Aminu said in a release. “This is something that the neighborhood can be excited about, and I’m thrilled to bring a new sports lounge like this to the city. This will be the first of many Bar 44 locations.”

The other partners involved in Bar 44 are Abdul Olayiwola, and Gary Ellis.

Bar 44 is located at 2755 Canton Road. For more information visit its website: www.bar44atl.com.

Bar 44 ribbon cutting

Bar 44 ribbon cutting

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