1. Pure Taqueria in Downtown Woodstock

The rooftop terrace of Pure is a great place to grab one of their signature margaritas, watch the sun set over downtown Woodstock, and listen to some acoustical tunes. Sidenote: The balcony can get pretty lively (read: raucous) as the night wears on, so people watching is also a prime source of entertainment.  The rooftop hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 5-11, and  Thursday-Sunday, 11-11.  Visit their Facebook fan page or call 770-952-PURE for information on the upcoming bands.

2. The Woodstock Coffee House in Woodstock

You would expect that with coffee drinks and cafe fare named after the likes of Dylan, Marley, and the Rolling Stones, the Woodstock Coffee House would have a special reverence for music, and they don’t disappoint. Giving Mondays a new reason to be, the WCH hosts an open mic night that attracts stellar local talent from 7-10 p.m. They also host live music EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT from 8-10 p.m. Check out their Facebook Fan Page or call 770-928-2901 with any questions.

3. The Downtown Kitchen in Canton

Zack Kell’s Canton restaurant Downtown Kitchen is becoming known all over Cherokee County for more than their delicious steak dinners. The second floor of the restaurant, with its full bar and exposed brick walls, is the perfect venue to enjoy some live music in a historic setting. The bands range nicely in both style and age, so be sure to check their website calendar and Facebook fan page to see some of your favorites.

4. Land of a Thousand Hills in Roswell

A coffeehouse whose slogan is “Drink Coffee, Do Good,” Land of a Thousand Hills is as much “great cause” and “great coffee.” They have been featured on CNN for their efforts to help Rwandan genocide survivors by offering small farmers a just living wage for their Arabica beans, and they also extend micro-loans to Rwandan women entrepreneurs. The coffee they serve is roasted locally in Roswell and offers a freshness beyond compare. Live music is held here every Friday and Saturday night from 8-10 p.m. and ranges from jazz to acoustic covers and more.

5. The Right Wing Tavern in Downtown Woodstock

Located in the historic train depot in downtown Woodstock, the Right Wing Tavern is the local watering hole for thirsty (and hungry) townies. Owner Jamey Snyder is always posting daily Facebook specials, so make sure you check them out before you head over. With beer pong tournaments on the back deck and scheduled Dirty Hippy, Left-Wing Music Night, it’s a great place to hang out, no matter what your politics are looking like these days.

The Dault family, owners of Canton’s Sweetwater Growers, were already pretty famous in these parts. Their hydroponically grown basil, specialty micro-greens, and herb-infused oils have become mainstays at local farmers markets and can now be found in Atlanta-area Publix, Kroger, and Whole Foods grocery stores. But on April 25, an episode of the Food Network’s Chefs vs. City revealed to the rest of the country what we in Cherokee County have long regarded as a local culinary treasure. The reality cooking show pitted celebrity chefs Aaron Sanchez and Chris Cosentino against Atlanta chefs Robert Irvine and George Galati as they traversed the city competing in various food-related challenges. At a launch party held at Downtown Kitchen in Canton, the Daults celebrated along side cheering friends and customers while dishes prepared with Sweetwater Growers’ own ingredients circulated the tables. Before the show had even finished, much to the excitement of James Dault, he had already fielded his first show-related email. “Someone wants to put in an order,” James said with a smile.

Freshly cut microgreens are hydroponically grown in water instead of soil.

Food Network chefs Aaron Sanchez and Chris Cosentino cut and try to identify microgreens as part of one of their Atlanta challenges.

Contact Information For Sweetwater Growers
P.O. Box 5345
Canton, GA 30114
Phone: 404-992-0199
Fax: 678-669-2396
www.sweetwatergrowers.com

In this age when it’s become obvious that “word of mouth” is still king, but “word of mouth on Facebook, Twitter, and blogs” now reigns supreme, I’m grateful that my town is one that’s looking toward the future. From starting open dialogs with their fans on Facebook to “tweeting” about upcoming events and sales, downtown Woodstock is quickly becoming one of the most social media-savvy towns in the Atlanta-Metro area. In an effort to stay better connected with their customers, merchants have begun teaming up for “Digital Downtown” meetings held every Wednesday at the Right Wing Tavern to learn about how to successfully incorporate new media tools into their online presence. The group ranges in internet skill level from novice to expert, but brought together by the common goal of encouraging fans to shop and eat locally, they are reinforcing the reality that “real life” sales often spring from “virtual” conversations. Well done, Woodstock!

Brad Nix, co-owner of Maxsell Real Estate, is on hand at Digital Downtown meetings to share his knowledge of new media techniques with merchants.

Living Like a Perennial in an Annual Kind of World

I’m not from around here. To be honest, I’ve never really been  from anywhere. Growing up with a father in the military, and then after joining up myself, I learned pretty quickly not to invest my time into putting down roots, both literally and figuratively, because it was too painful to surrender them every two or three years. Fortunately for my family and me, I had a mother who didn’t buy into that attitude. She treated people like they’d always be her neighbors, took care of houses like they were her own property, and she planted gardens like she would see them every spring for the rest of her life. Always an avid gardener, she often baffled the neighborhood by her tireless planting when, all too often, we would be leaving before she would even see the flowers come into bloom.  (She even planted thorny rose bushes once underneath my sister’s window to discourage her from sneaking out. It didn’t work.) In all those years of moving around, my mother taught me a lot about what it means to make the world a more beautiful place, and there are her gardens all around the world to prove it.  And now, a  mom myself with a family and a little bit of Woodstock dirt in my name, I decided that it was my turn to put down a few roots of my own. I asked around to discover the best locally-owned nurseries to help me in my efforts, and time and again, these were the names that came up.

1. Autumn Hill Nursery

With two family-owned locations in both Canton and Hickory Flat, Autumn Hill Nursery is a gardening wonderland for both the novice and the expert.  Their website cordially invites you to “Come by. Visit awhile and get to know us. Bring along a picnic lunch. Your children can feed the fish, your spouse can sit and read in the shade; and WE can talk gardening. Hope to see you soon.” You won’t get THAT from any big orange box stores.  When I made it to the Hickory Flat location, I was greeted by Shiree who talked with me for a good thirty minutes (at least) on the intricacies of planting and maintaining roses. She helped me load all my purchases in the back of my car, and then enrolled me their free “Gardening Together Club,” which offers rewards for each purchase that you make with them.  I drove away with solid, unhurried advice and some of the most beautiful, healthful flowers I’d ever purchased.

2. Lady Slipper Rare Plant Nursery

Lady Slipper has a great reputation around town for carrying healthy, rare flowers and plants that you’re not likely to find in every yard in your neighborhood. Casey, the owner’s son, was gracious enough to give me a grand tour of the nursery on my first visit, and he showed me plenty of uncommon and gorgeous plants grown on the property, including pineapple lilies, fifty-four varieties of hostas, and over twenty varieties of herbs. I think what they’re most famous for, and rightly so, are the endless rows of hanging baskets whose vibrant colors and creative arrangement would impress even the most seasoned gardeners.

3. Morgan’s Ace Hardware

Located conveniently in downtown Woodstock behind Right Wing Tavern, Morgan’s Ace Hardware never fails to treat me well whenever I come in.  I went there once for duct tape, and three people asked me if they could help me before I could get to the right aisle…now that’s service.  That’s why it didn’t surprise me much when their name was mentioned when I asked where I should go to buy the best plants.  The clerk was more than happy to take me out into their nursery and show me their heirloom tomato plants, hanging baskets, and spring supply of perennials and annuals. What’s more, it’s also a one-stop shop for all the finishing touches on your garden like statues, bird baths, and porch swings.

At possibly the largest and best Lost finale party in Metro Atlanta, The Strand in Marietta will be opening up its grand theater on Sunday, May 23 to the first 531 fans of the popular ABC show. The series, which first aired in September of 2004 and has become a pop culture fixture with a following of sixteen million viewers, is finally coming to a close after six seasons. “Lost parties” have been cropping up everywhere lately–in bars, restaurants, and private homes–but I can’t imagine a better venue than the Strand for the show’s Loyalists to gather for the much-anticipated ending. Admission to the event is FREE, and the concessions and full bar will be open for those who’d like to make a night of it. The event will last from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., but I’d suggest getting there early for seating.

Other Upcoming Events at the Strand include:

Friday, May 21 Chick Flick Night: Moulin Rouge (PG-13) at 7 p.m., $15; Wine and Cheese Reception to Follow on the Rooftop Terrace RESERVED TICKETS RECOMMENDED

Saturday, May 22 Jaws in 3-D (PG) at 8 p.m., $7-8; Rocky Horror Picture Show (R) at Midnight $10; Brew with View: 6-10 p.m. Enjoy a beer or cocktail on the Cobb Rooftop Terrace overlooking Marietta Square’s Glover Park while listening to the Dean DeMerritt Jazz Tribe.

Friday June 4: Sing Along with Mama Mia (PG-13) at 8 p.m. Words to Abba songs will be posted on the big screen for your singing convenience. $7-8 ($5 with a group of 10 or more).

Chef Luc Beaudet, the Marietta Frenchman whose bakery and cafe Douceur de France has been enticing metro Atlantans for years, has now opened a second location in Roswell. Beaudet announced the news on the eve of his Marietta location’s ten year anniversary and thanked his loyal patrons:  ”Merci Beaucoup for your fidelity, your advice, and for spreading a good word about us.”  Crafting authentic French pastries and cakes has materialized into a life-long passion for Beaudet, stretching from his early beginnings in his mother’s kitchen in France’s Poitou region to his culinary experiences across Europe and Tokyo, Japan, before settling with his family in Marietta.

The Roswell location offers the same bakery, breakfast, and lunch specialties that have become a staple for Cobb County Franchophiles and features an outdoor dining veranda to enjoy those gorgeous Georgia mornings.  Whether you’re craving  a simple baguette or croissant with jam, a fresh fruit tart, or my personal favorite, the Panini Benedict, Chef Luc’s creations never disappoint when you’re seeking something extraordinary. With Edith Piaf crooning from the speakers and overheard French lilting from the kitchen, you’d swear that you’d been transported across the sea rather than Outside the Perimeter.

Douceur de France’s Information

Marietta Location

367 Glover Street
Marietta, GA 30060

Telephone: 770-425-5050 Fax:770-429-0623

Roswell Location

1173 Alpharetta Street
Roswell 30075

Telephone:  770-650-1173

Contact Chef Luc at douceurdefrance@gmail.com for catering information.

The Cherokee County Master Gardeners will be teaming up with Cherokee County Animal Shelter on Saturday, May 1, to raise funds for our local homeless pets. If you’ve been waiting to plant this Spring, this will be the perfect opportunity to pick up your annuals, perennials, natives, veggies, and gardening books all in one spot as well as support a worthy cause. The Animal Shelter is also holding a $7 rabies clinic and a yard sale to support our county’s animals.

Sadie Sue Belle, my own “Pound Puppy,” will definitely be there to get current on her rabies vaccinations and help me scout out some flowers for a new garden.

When and Where?

Plant Sale: Saturday, May 1, 8 a.m -1 p.m. at the Cherokee County Senior Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton (Next to the Animal Shelter

Rabies Clinic: Sign Up begins at 8:30 a.m at the door, and vaccinations will be given 9 a.m to Noon. (All pets must be on a leash or in a Carrier.)

Yard Sale: 9 a.m -2 p.m., 1015 Univeter Road, Canton

Sean Mullins sings to fans at last year’s Woodstock Concert Series.

The Woodstock Concert Series begins its thirteenth year with a stellar lineup of musical acts, including Sister Hazel with opener Memory Dean on May 8th. The free concerts in the downtown City Park showcase both locally and nationally-recognized bands and include a healthy variety of classic rock, country, oldies, jazz and rhythm and blues.  Always a family friendly affair, games for the kids and local food vendors will be set up around the perimeter of the park.  Music lovers are encouraged to show up early for the 7:30 shows and bring their lawn chairs and blankets.

The 2010 Concert Schedule

May 8  Sister Hazel and Memory Dean

June 12  Great American Rock and Roll Revival

July 10 Atlanta Rhythm Section

August 21 Chuck Wicks with opener The Whiskey Rose Band

September 18 Swingin’ Medallions

Here’s the scenario: There are short-sleeves, little umbrella drinks, and flip-flops in your very near future. So why spend your Saturdays trapped in a stuffy, enclosed mall when you can be free with the sun on your face, strolling through shop doors propped open to let in the spring breezes? If you haven’t had a look around downtown Woodstock lately, you’re in for a nice surprise. These Main Street proprietors have rolled out the welcome mat for Spring (and you) in a huge way.

1. Outspokin’ Bicycles

Beginning March 17, the staff of Outspokin’ Bicycles has ushered in weekly spring road rides every Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. and and a beginners’ riding group on Saturday mornings at 7 a.m. Both groups depart from the Hickory Flat Publix on the corner of Highway 140 and East Cherokee Drive. What’s great about riding with (and buying from) these guys is being able to witness the pure passion they have for what they’re doing. Their knowledge is not rooted in any text book, but from their real experience riding on the roads and trails of North Georgia.

2. Linden

Woodstock’s own purveyor of French and English antiques, Linden is also the go-to spot for garden parties and planting advice from horticulture enthusiast Laurie Prentice. Laurie specializes in planning outdoor parties for both young and young-at-heart in her landscaped courtyard outside of her downtown boutique.

3. Bella Boutique

Bella Boutique, located next to the downtown gazebo, is opening its doors for two weeks in April (March 31-April 3 and April 7-11), which leaves plenty of time to stop in to find that perfect beach bag or accessories for all those spring get-togethers.  Besides handbags, they also carry clothing, jewelry, scarves, and shoes — all guaranteed to keep you prettier than your mall-shopping neighbors.

4. Honey Butter

Honey Butter’s extensive spring line is a treasure trove of style. From new sun dresses to coordinating clutches, shoes, and jewelry, this Woodstock boutique has your spring wardrobe covered.  As always, they are offering the “buy-two-get-one-piece-free” on special on jewelry, and they also invite you to book after-hours “discount shopping parties” with your friends.

5. Val’s Happy Shack

Touted as Woodstock’s premiere place to find “hip trends for real people,”  Val’s Happy Shack has stocked its racks with styles ranging from hippie chic to classic style. A friendly and helpful staff always welcomes you here, and besides clothes, they also offer jeans fittings, jewelry by local artisans, original art work, and home shopping parties.

To see more photographs of our Spring Shoppers Guide or find out what’s going on in our community, become a fan at our new Facebook Page Long Live Saturdays!

Local Restaurant Vingenzo’s Stirs Italian Nostalgia

I remember a little place, barely more than a shack, on a mountainside in Northern Italy. You wouldn’t even know it was inhabited if not for the thin plume of woodsmoke rising from its chimney and the scent of baking dough escaping from its door into the open countryside.  Known only to the locals, there was no sign in front  and no fanfare, but some of the best pizza I’ve ever had in my life.  The inside was completely without  frills…just  two tables, a pile of wood, a man, a brick oven,  and a collection of some of the freshest ingredients imaginable.

I dared not think of it for many years because that little pizza shack had ruined American pie for me. But when I was recently seated at Vingenzo’s in downtown Woodstock, this little piece of Italy was exactly what came to mind.  To my nostalgic pleasure, I was seated in a cozy booth right next to the restaurant woodpile.  With a glass (or maybe two) of the house Chianti and the Margharita pizza,  I closed my eyes and I was transported right back there. The quality of the fresh mozzarella and basil was extraordinary, and they served it not in slices, but in the authentic tradition of a whole pie with fork and knife, each bite meant to be savored and doted upon.  I finished the meal off with a scoop of gelato (Italian ice cream) and sat back to half-pine and half-rejoice in my luck.  As much as I have always loved that little Italian pizza maker, I am grateful to know that I no longer have to leave my own town to enjoy  a “real Italian pizza.”