Dragon Con 2019 Pictorial Journey
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/19
Check out our Dragon Con 2019 experience in pictures. They say pictures are worth 1000 words!
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/19
Check out our Dragon Con 2019 experience in pictures. They say pictures are worth 1000 words!









































Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/11/19
Open Hand fires up fun with annual Party in the Kitchen fundraiser, September 26
Mingle with Atlanta’s celebrated chefs while enjoying live music, cocktails and more
The Stave Rome at American Spirit Works
Chef Chairs Kevin Rathbun and Gerry Klaskala, along with Co-Chairs Nan Street and Carmen Titelman, invite Atlantans to mix and mingle with local chefs and fellow foodies during the 16th annual Party in the Kitchen benefit at The Stave Room at American Spirit Works in support of Open Hand Atlanta. On Thursday, September 26 at 7 p.m., guests will enjoy delicious fare from more than 20 of Atlanta’s finest restaurants, including Aria, Rathbun’s, Local Three Kitchen & Bar, The General Muir and Table & Main, as well as hand-crafted cocktails provided by top mixologists.
Open Hand Atlanta hosts the culinary-focused event annually to raise much-needed funds to support its programs which provide access to home-delivered, health-promoting meals as well as nutrition education to Atlantans living with or disabled by chronic disease, homebound seniors and at-risk youth and families. As guests enjoy food prepared by some of Atlanta’s finest chefs, the event will also include a live auction with opportunities to win incredible one-of-a-kind experiences, such as exclusive in-home dinners prepared by renowned chefs Kevin Rathbun and Gerry Klaskala, as well as a silent auction which will feature an array of luxury items including travel packages, entertainment opportunities and fine dining experiences.
Open Hand will also host a Patron Party at the Spanx Rooftop Terrace a few weeks prior to the main event which will provide another opportunity to showcase some of Atlanta’s most divine bites as well as a sneak peek of the live and silent auctions. The Patron Party event will take place on Friday, September 13 at 7 p.m.
Tickets for the main event begin at $250 and include access to unlimited food tastings and an open bar. Patron Party tickets are $1500 and include two tickets to the Patron Party as well as two tickets to the main event. For information on sponsorship packages or to purchase tickets, visit PartyintheKitchen.org.
Nestled near the Atlanta Beltline in close proximity to EAV and Grant Park, The Shed at Glenwood has a stellar brunch menu with everything from cool salads, savory and sweet French toast, to traditional omelets, eggs, and bacon. Top it off with a specialty cocktail, bloody mary, or mimosa. Perfecto. Let’s jump into our culinary journey, come join us.
Starting with the Watermelon Baby Spinach Salad was one of the highlights of our time at The Shed at Glenwood. The crunch of the sweet watermelon combined with the slight spice of cumin in the dressing, and topped with the savory spinach, which was crisp and light. Sprinkle with crunchy sunflower seeds to all blend together; sweet, salty, light and fresh. Follow up the light salad with something sweet and savory, like the French Toast with poached pears. Light and fluffy, the bread was the right balance of sweet cinnamon, savory of the egg wash, and crunchy walnuts. Top it off with tart blackberries and warm, yet light maple syrup, and the savory crunch of the poached pears. The best thing on the French toast were those poached pears. Savory, slightly sweet, tender. Pro tip: drizzle the maple syrup directly on the poached pears. It could be a dessert itself.
After you’ve done all this, they also have some very good standard brunch and breakfast fare, like their southern chicken omelet stuffed with chicken, vegetables, and cheese. What made this dish was the side of Nashville hot sauce and some of the best roasted potatoes: salty, savory, right amount of crunch, but potato thick enough to enjoy on its own. We found that if you take some of the omelet, get some hot sauce on it, and then add a roasted potato it’s a fabulous bite.
Don’t forget to grab a refreshing cocktail or spritzer! We had one of the best summer patio drinks ever, a French 75 with champagne, lime, and a spritz of Gin. Something you could drink a few of that’s light, refreshing, tangy, sweet, bubbly, and so good. We also tried the Jungle Bird stuffed with house spiced rum, pineapple, lime and a beautiful pink color. This beauty was surprisingly tart but smoothed out on the end with the pineapple.
Next time you’re on the south end of the beltline and need a quick brunch, breakfast, or even lunch or dinner, get over to The Shed at Glenwood. You’ll be glad you did.
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/8/19
Saturday, October 5th at 2 pm
From Atlanta’s First Outdoor-Oriented Restaurant & Bar to Open on the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, Event Will Feature Live Music, Food & Drink from Ladybird & Guest Chefs & More
10 Percent of All Proceeds from the Day Will Benefit Giving Kitchen & Open Hand Atlanta; Tickets Available Here
Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall announces “Block Party at the ‘Bird,” an event celebrating the restaurant’s fifth anniversary on Saturday, October 5 from 2-11pm. Presented by Electric Hospitality (the restaurant group behind Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall, Golden Eagle and Muchacho), the BeltLine-adjacent block party will feature food and drink from Ladybird and guest chefs from neighboring restaurants, two outdoor stages with live music and more. In addition, 10 percent of all proceeds from the day will be donated to local nonprofits Giving Kitchen and Open Hand Atlanta.
During Block Party at the ‘Bird, neighbors and friends can gather at the iconic Atlanta restaurant to enjoy a celebratory sampling of Ladybird’s elevated campfire cuisine, beer, wine and craft cocktails available for purchase. The event will also welcome Ladybird’s Reynoldstown sister spots Golden Eagle and Muchacho, in addition to a lineup of guest chefs from neighboring restaurants along the BeltLine, all selling their best block party-inspired dishes.
Throughout the day, live music will be played on stages in Ladybird’s outdoor grove and parking area from bands Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics, Chupacabras, Downtown Abbey & The Echoes, Kyle Lacy & The Wildest, Sweet Auburn String Band and Trae Pierce & The T-Stones.
“We’re incredibly excited to celebrate this milestone with our Atlanta neighbors and friends,” says Owner and Founder Michael Lennox. “It’s been an honor to grow with the community over the last five years, and we’re so thankful for all the support that has allowed us to carve out our spot along the BeltLine.”
Please see here for tickets and more details.
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/6/19
With what Jeff Kalinsky calls “sharp tailoring,” we loved the fall trends this year. From that long, tan coat that captured MY heart, to a throw-back to our high school Doc Martin days, to flashy sequins, we’ll take ALL of it. Could we wear that sequin dress we loved with our combat boots? Beyond the fashion show, good bites from Agency with their salmon chip to Grand Luxe with that delicious tuna poke “shot,” the fun cocktails from Tavern at Phipps, and, we enjoyed rubbing elbows with friends and Atlanta celebrities alike. Wow, the fashion off the runway was fabulous this year with bold colors and fashion forward attendees that really stepped up their fashion game. Everyone looked ready for this year’s fashion show!
Let’s jump into this year’s fall fashion trends straight from Kalinsky.
In 2019 the Fall runways were a complete shake up. Whether you prefer sharp tailoring, a dash of color, or a stand out accessory. Fall gave us a little something for every possible style : the sophisticated working woman, the bold risk-taker, and even those who’d prefer to stick to the classics.
Gauchos/culottes: Gauchos are the MUST HAVE bottom of the season. Hedi Slimane of Celine sent a statement down the runway. Gauchos in all different fabrics, and a range of colors.
Capes: Capes were one of the strongest silhouettes this season. Leading the way was Hedi Slimane for Celine, but Burberry and Marc Jacobs also sent their chic versions down the catwalk. Capes proved to be heroic for every occasion.
Purple: Purple hues shot down the runway from a mix of designers. STATEMENT faux furs from Tom Ford, and luxurious purple metallics from Dries Van Noten.
Statement Hats: Hats, Hats, and more Hats! Maria Grazia of Dior went the bucket hat route, while brands like Marc Jacobs, Valentino, and Tom ford also featured their current take on the 2019 fall hat obsession. Hats of all shapes (and sizes) were the fashion accessory of the season!
Combat boots: From practical to stylish, combat boots were the biggest Fall shoe trend of 2019. Versions from the likes of Gianvito Rossi, Celine, Saint Laurent, and Amiri! The classic combat was completely reinvented, making this your must have shoe for any look!
Until next year!
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/5/19
Historic 4th Ward Skate Park
Saturday, September 28th at 1 pm (VIP at Noon)
The second annual Atlanta Mimosa Festival will be hosted on Saturday, September 28th and you don’t want to miss it! The event will take place from 1pm to 5 pm with advanced entry for VIP ticket holders at 12pm. The location has changed from last year and will be held at the Historic 4th Ward Skate Park. Beverages available include mimosas (with a variety of orange juice flavors from Natalie’s Juice Company), Peach Bellini’s, Bloody Mary’s, a selection of beer, wine, and cider. There will be live music from Ocean Street and our favorite DJ Q-Tip will be spinning in an A/C tent. Additionally, there will be over 10 food vendors with yummy bites available for purchase.
VIP tickets include all drinks, early entry at 12pm, brunch bites in the VIP Tent, separate bars and restrooms. VIP tickets are $69 in advance and $79 after Sept 19th. No day-of event tickets will be available for VIP. Bottomless Drinks tickets include all beverages; food will cost extra. Bottomless Drinks are $45 in advance, $50 after Sept 19th, and $60 day-of.
More details here: http://atlantamimosafestival.com/
Date: Sunday, September 7th
Time: 1 pm
About: The Atlanta Bourbon Fest will be held on Saturday, September 7th at City Winery from 1-4pm with VIP starting at noon. There will be over 50 bourbons and whiskeys to sample as well as a few beer and wine options. There will be live music upstairs and DJ Aetii downstairs. Food will be available for purchase from a select menu from City Winery. The list of bourbons and whiskeys will be posted on the website once they’re confirmed. General Admission tickets include entry, entertainment, a souvenir etched tasting glass upon exit, and all of your drinks. They will run $65 in advance, $75 day of the event. VIP tickets include early entry at 12pm, 15+ VIP-only bourbons, a souvenir etched tasting glass upon exit, and all of your drinks. These will be $120 in advance, not available day of.
More Information:
https://www.bigtickets.com/events/atlantabeerfestivals/atlanta-bourbon-festival/
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/3/19
Featuring Local Artists GREG MIKE as Ceremonial Keg Tapper and
Karen Anderson Singer of Tiny Doors ATL Appearance
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Friday, October 11th and Saturday, October 12th
Oktoberfest Atlanta, produced by Atlanta Sport and Social Club, will be back for 2019 in Historic Fourth Ward Park on Friday, October 11 from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm and Saturday, October 12 from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. In celebration of all things German, the festival is in its fourth year and will be bigger than ever with more food vendor choices and multiple Oktoberfest-style beer tents throughout the park–absolutely no shortage of frosty brews for ticket holders. The celebration is the largest German festival to take place in Atlanta — a tremendous party complete with live polka music, popular food vendors, costumes, and even a dog parade. The festival will attract approximately 7,000 attendees over the two days — up from 5,000 in 2018.
This year local Atlantans and nationally recognized artists GREG MIKE, founder and creative director of AVE Agency and Gallery and Karen Anderson Singer, Principal Artist and Director of Tiny Doors ATL, will collaborate artistically with Oktoberfest. GREG MIKE has been named Ceremonial Keg Tapper while Karen Anderson Singer will also make an appearance.
“We love the cultural experience that Oktoberfest Atlanta brings to our city. It is a fusion of traditional Oktoberfest experiences such as the ceremonial keg tapping, with a hint of creative, Atlanta-style fun such as the pretzel toss! We are thrilled that we have grown our attendees in our 4th year, and we look forward to continuing the festival’s growth, partnerships with local nonprofits, local and national polka bands, German food, and games.” shares Catie Schreiman, Director of Events, Atlanta Sport and Social Club.
Oktoberfest guest experiences include three different beer gardens including official Oktoberfest craft beer sponsor Bell’s Brewing Beer Garden,Spaten Franziskaner Brau Biergarten — one of the original Oktoberfest beers of Germany — featuring four Spaten varieties, Oktoberfest Optimizer Lager, and Dunkel and a German Bier Garden with assorted German beers. In addition, Michelob Ultra, Bon & Viv Sparkling Seltzer, and craft cocktails including Bulleit Bourbon, Lunazul Tequila, Smirnoff Vodka, as well as various wines will be flowing from an Airstream trailer.
This year, Bud Light will sponsor a premium College Football Viewing Experience. The bar has a handful of built-in, flat screen televisions and a giant 12’x7.5′ LED display for guests to enjoy the college football games.
For those active guests, there will be an abundance of games including Oktoberfest competitions such as stein hoisting contests, the brawt toss, keg roll racing, the pretzel toss, and a whimsical dog parade.
German-inspired food for purchase will include Atlanta BBQ pros Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q featuring a specially made Oktoberfest Dog with house sauerkraut, apples, and Arches Brewing Pilsner with chutney garnish. As well as family owned and operated Woodstock Pretzel Company, Petite Violette who will be serving up Schnitzel, sauerkraut, and potato salad — plus many more!
Also, a new addition to the festival, thanks to The German Cultural Foundation, culinary vendor, The German Food, will fly in from the homeland and participate with a limited, authentic menu.
Live music includes national act, LynnMarie & The Nashville Polka Guys — LynnMarie is in the Polka National Hall of Fame, Sherri & Larry AKA “The Gluckliches Trio,” Bob Planner (solo accordionist), and local Atlanta acts,Ty Reynolds Band and All The Locals. Plus, DJ OneNate will perform throughout on both days.
Local nonprofit support is an important focus for festival owners Atlanta Sport and Social Club. Several nonprofits will benefit from ticket sales including, Releash Atlanta, Concrete Jungle, Junior Chamber International Atlanta Chapter, and Playworks GA. Releash Atlanta has been a continuous partner with the festival for the last three years. They are a 501c3, not for profit, 100% volunteer run, charitable organization that focuses on saving dogs from high kill shelters throughout our state. Since the organization operates solely on donations and volunteers, it is a prime choice for the festival to support.
HOW TO GET YOUR TICKETS
Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/3/19
Duluth Town Green
Saturday, October 5th at Noon
The City of Duluth is teaming up with Atlanta Sport and Social Club to host a celebration of Beer and Wine on the Duluth Town Green. Join us on Saturday, October 5th from 12:00pm-5:00pm to sample 75+ craft beers and 25+ wines. The day will feature live local music from Citizen Gold and The Night Howlers, beer and wine samples, a variety of local food trucks, an adult game zone, plus community vendors and artists.
Tickets include souvenir tasting glass, admission to the event, live music, and all beer and wine samples. They are $36 at the time of posting and will increase as we get closer to the festival.
Ticket site and more information:
https://www.duluthbeerandwinefest.com/
https://www.bigtickets.com/events/assc/duluth-beer-and-wine-festival
Panels, Wallops, A Mai Tai, A Wonder Woman T-Rex, Random Celebrity Sightings, and Parking Lot Karaoke!
Wheeeew, We were busy!
Fandom. Nerdom. Fanatics. Whatever you want to call it descended on downtown Atlanta as the first few days of Dragon Con came and went, but thank goodness it’s Friday. Welcome home to Dragon Con 2019! Wednesday is the new Thursday with the welcome home party and even a T-REX dance party in the Hilton. Thursday is quickly becoming the new first must-do night with their fun late night parties like the End Game Neon Party and late night tunes, like The Tomb Tunes. There’s also $6 Mai Tais at Trader Vic’s! Finally, Friday is the first full day full of panels, parties, and more. Let’s check out all the Friday shenanigans in depth!
First, the Wallops. We snaked like a super hero this evening, while hanging out with Hight Road Craft Ice Cream out of Marietta, GA (local!). A little ball of deliciousness has a delicate ice cream center, cookie dough outside, and crispy shell. Our favorite was definitely the sweet cream ice cream and cookie dough, but the almond was also very good. Wait, they ALL were good. What a nice bunch of people to hang out with for a while! You should check out their large wallop and background you can take a picture with! It’s bigger than your head! They are going to be in the pool area of the Hyatt Regency Saturday too until 6 pm (or gone). Get Walloped!
Second, panels. There are so many tidbits, behind the scene jokes, and more that you find out about actors and even shows that you didn’t know that are a complete surprise to everyone. The best things that happen can be surprise guests, show spoilers, story lines that COULD be, and more. Here’s some of the best of the panels:
THIS PORTION OF OUR ARTICLE CONTAINS SPOILERS FROM LUCIFER AND GOTHAM. Like this afternoon, we got to hear from Aimee Garcia and DB Woodside a few interesting things about Lucifer currently airing on Netflix. DB said in the first season that his character Amenadiel was to fall in love with the demon Maze, but she was going to die. He is so distraught that he brings her back to life and that’s how he looses his powers and wings. Interesting. He does lose his wings in season one into season two, but it wasn’t for this reason. Fox was hesitant about this story line and it got scrapped. Then, Aimee, is hoping her character, Ella, turns out to be God (and so did one fan who asked about it). In the comics, Elaine Bella is a character that turns out to be God and with name Ella… could be? Probably not, but it is a fan theory and a rumor around the lot.
As for Gotham that just ended it’s run on Fox, we got to spend some time with a bunch of the main actors like David Mazouz, Sean Pertwee, Robin Lord Taylor, Maggie Geha, and SURPRISE Donald Logue showed up. Right off, Robin Lord Taylor is a blonde(!). So, he had a wonderful story about how Jada Pinkett Smith took him under her wing and really showed him the ropes of acting on a series, almost like her character Fish Mooney mentored Cobblepot, who became Penguin and he was eternally grateful. He also said he really used Danny Devito’s Penguin and his “look” as a roadmap to his character. Beyond that, it was interesting to hear that Fox/the producers didn’t tell the actors what roles they were auditioning for in the beginning. Sean P said if he knew he was auditioning for Alfred he would have done things differently. David M mentioned they said his scene for audition was that his brother has just died and he is having a hard time with it. So interesting to hear this! What struck us is that these actors were all very close. Donald Logue said this was the closest, most family like cast he’s worked with and that means a lot seeing as he had just done Sons of Anarchy, Vikings, and a stint on SVU. They all hugged when he showed up. He wasn’t supposed to be at the panel, so it was a treat for all!
On the way back from dinner, we were walking by the Marriott and we ran into a man standing on the street talking to another cosplayer. He turns around and it’s Mark Sheppard. If you watched the show Supernatural on the CW and the demon, Crowley, rings a bell, you know who we’re talking about! I (Liz) asked for a selfie or photo but he said it was against the rules, so we can’t give you a proof of encounter, unfortunately. But, I did get to waved to his wife Sarah who was on Facetime with him, and he was very nice. We told him we were big Supernatural fans and left it at that. SPOILER We hope he gets to come back for the final season.
Finally, we ran across something cool tonight, a parking lot karaoke party. A bunch of random people, belting their favorite songs, behind a car, and a bunch of people around cheering them on. It was a lot of fun and interesting to watch everything go down.
That’s a wrap for now. More on Saturday and Sunday to come!