Around Towne
by Susan Kyle

Here we are with the pressure of Valentine's Day upon us all. Every special occasion, we go through the same dialogue in my house. My husband asks, "What do you want for your birthday, Christmas, anniversary, Valentine's day?" I always reply with "Well, I really don't want anything." So guess what, that is exactly what I get!

Now I must say in defense of my husband that I never have to get my own gas, wash my car, cut the grass, make the bed, take out the trash and I very rarely have to cook. He does so much for our family everyday. He certainly has done his fair share of diaper changing, kid chasing and everything that comes our way with two small children in the house. I am so grateful to have a husband who pitches in so much that it is hard for me to give him flack for not being a "giver of gifts." So this year when my husband asks me what I want, I will let him off the hook. I just will tell him that all I want is for him to keep filling my gas tank, cutting the grass, changing diapers, etc. Oh yeah, and I might mention the diamond earrings that I have secretly wanted for so long. I might even know where he can purchase them.

My husband may not be the gift giver of my dreams, but for those out there who are gift givers, there are many great choices in the Towne Lake area sure to make your sweetie smile! For example, imagine coming home only to discover your house has been professionally cleaned as a surprise for you? That would score some major points! Merry Maids or Marie's Cleaning Services would be happy to help arrange such a treat! If personal pampering is more your loved one's preference, a gift certificate to Skincare by Gabriella, Nail Formations or Jyl Craven Hair Colour Studio will certainly fit the bill. The Wild Honeysuckle always has unique gifts for him and her. These and more ideas to show that special someone how much you care can be found in our Advertiser Index located on page 111.

What's New

The new Super Wal-mart recently held its Grand Opening, and they are officially open for business. The store, which employs 450 people, includes grocery, general merchandise, pharmacy and automotive shop and is open 24 hours.

The Woodstock Downtown Development Authority (DDA) voted to approve a request from Hedgewood Properties to open a restaurant in the train depot. The restaurant will be part of the adjacent mixed-use project, which is currently under construction.

PJ's Coffee is a coffee shop offering gourmet coffee, specialty drinks, sandwiches and desserts. What makes them unique is that they also will serve wine by the glass. PJ's is located at the Weatherstone Promenade in Woodstock and can be reached at (678) 445-5559. Bijou Salon opened recently, and they are located in the Weatherstone Promenade as well. They offer hair, nail skin and massage services. To reach the Bijou Salon, please call (678) 494-6222.

What's Ongoing

The Woodstock City Council voted on the proposed I-575 interchange on January 11. The Council voted in favor, 5 - 1, to go forward with the next step. Which according to Woodstock City Manager Jim Gleason, is the State required Environmental and Traffic studies. The studies will determine if the proposed interchange is viable.

An economic study is not required; however, several local business owners have expressed concern over a potentially negative economic impact the proposed split diamond exchange would cause on existing businesses in and around Towne Lake and property values for certain residents of Deer Run.

The City Staff will begin preparing the Bid 

Susan is the Managing Editor of The TowneLaker magazine. She lives in southwest Cherokee with her husband William and their two daughters, Molly and Samantha. Feel free to send your comments or questions to editor@townelaker.com.

Proposal to send to companies approved by the Georgia Department of Transportation. The Council will then vote on the proposals. The results of the study will determine the next step to be taken, which will be discussed at a public meeting by the Council.

StreetSide Developers are developing the northeast and northwest corners of Bells Ferry Road and Eagle Drive. StreetSide at Towne Lake on the northeast corner is the first phase and has seen a lot of activity recently. This center is scheduled to open this summer and Bobby G's restaurant, a Mexican restaurant, a dry cleaner and a sandwich shop already has signed on as tenants. Other tenants will include a Southern-style restaurant and a health club. Phase II, located behind the Chevron at Eagle Drive and Bells Ferry Road, is still in the initial planning stages.

The widening of Eagle Drive is progressing, and is scheduled to be completed by the Spring of 2006. The widening of Bells Ferry Road north of Kellogg Creek Road is not scheduled to begin until 2010. Until then, patience and more patience.

Towne Lake Diner
Hot Dog Heaven
by Kara Kiefer

If you're from Chicago (and even if you're not) and love Chicago-style hot dogs, Hot Dog Heaven is a must on the dining out list. Owners Becky and Barney Wentzel definitely know how to create the perfect Chicago dog as well as authentic Bratwurst and an outrageous 10 ounce Black Angus hamburger.

Hot Dog Heaven is nestled in the heart of downtown Woodstock on Main Street in an historic 1908 building that was formerly a post office. The décor is simple with several picnic tables inside and out, and the minute you walk in, you're welcomed like an old friend - even if it's your first visit. Along with the infamous Chicago dog, the hot dog menu includes toppings such as chili, cheese, slaw or kraut, corn dogs and, of course, plain dogs. Hot Dog Heaven uses only 100% pure beef Vienna hot dogs. They offer a kids' special, which includes two "junior" hot dogs, chips and a drink served on a souvenir Frisbee. The menu is rounded out with items such as Italian Beef sandwich, Italian and Polish Sausage, Bratwurst and the above-mentioned hamburger, Barney's Burger. The Barney, as it's referred to, consists of 10 oz. of prime Angus beef. "It's sheer size is overwhelming," stated Becky, "but it's one of our biggest sellers."

But overall, it's the Chicago dog that is the star of the restaurant. "We are extremely authentic," stated Becky. "We are constantly getting tested from Chicagoans, and we always pass the test," she continued. Adding to the authenticity is the fact that they import their chili from Chicago. "People from Chicago have in mind how their chili should taste, and they get what they're looking for when they come here," said Barney.

Aside from the food, Becky and Barney are some of the nicest and friendliest people and go out of their way to welcome their customers. Barney is originally from Chicago and later Wisconsin, which explains the Cheesehead hanging on the wall. Becky is a native Atlantan, and has worked and lived in the Woodstock area for years, which means she knows her customer base. "The response to us from the community has been overwhelming," said Becky. She describes Hot Dog Heaven as very kid friendly and family oriented, and there's something for everyone. And if you're lucky, the train, which is part of Woodstock's charm, will whistle by as you dine.