By Heather Posey
Staff Writer
The Bixby Knolls Starbucks was packed last Saturday morning, but this time it wasn’t for the coffee. Nearly 20 people gathered around the Atlantic Avenue coffee house awaiting the first meeting of new neighborhood walking club, the Bixby Knolls Strollers.
Business owners and residents of the area responded to new Business Improvement Association executive director Blair Cohn’s invitation to take a walk with him. According to Cohn, the hour-long walks are not only a great way to get fit but also give residents a chance to check out local businesses, explore the neighborhood and get to know their neighbors.
“I want residents to see what’s around here so that they know that there is a model shop here and that Four Olives is here,” said Cohn. “It’s a great way for everyone to meet each other.”
And residents agree. Families and pets tagged along as Cohn led the group on a journey south on Atlantic Avenue to Carson Street, turning left and weaving around residential areas where strollers were able to view the historic homes of the area. Cohn also got support from local store owners, with Mod L Mania owner Chuck Wilkinson and Thor Carlson of THOR Antiques joining the group.
“It’s kind of cool to see the business owners here,” said Bixby Knolls resident and stroller Cheirrel Margis. “Now, next time I go into a store like LaunderPet and see the owner, I can say ‘I know you, we walked together.'”
Cohn aims for the strollers to walk a new route each week and possibly incorporate a running club so members of all speeds are comfortable. According to the director, it’s not about speed and there are no rules,”we’re just here to have a good time.”
The Bixby Knolls Strollers meet Saturday mornings at Starbucks, located at 4406 Atlantic Avenue in Bixby Knolls. The walk starts at 7:30 a.m. and strollers are encouraged to arrive early to sign in.
For more information, visit www.bixbyknollsinfo.com.
