












Senior Living Communities
Voted 7 Years in a Row, Cobb’s BEST Retirement, Assisted Living & Memory Care
• A Variety of Large Floor Plans to Meet Any Need
• Diverse Amenities Inspiring Our Residents to Live a Social, “Sterling” life
• Certified Parkinson’s Programs - Emphasizing Balance & Maintaining Strength
• State of the art Wellness Centers & Programs, led by Sterling Recreation Therapists and Exercise Specialists
• Award Winning Food
• Beautifully Landscaped Campuses, in Neighborhood Settings
“We sold our home of 20+ years earlier this year, above our asking price, and moved into our beautiful cottage home at Sterling Estates, freeing us from all the responsibilities of homeownership. We freed up cash, traded in property taxes and constant maintenance for the many benefits we’ve discovered living here at Sterling. We exercise more than ever. I love to walk through the grounds and enjoy the large wellness center, while my wife swims almost daily in the indoor heated pool. She is fond of her weekly art classes. A day here is much more fulfilling for us, we wished we had moved sooner. We encourage you to come see what we mean.” - Bill and Sally R.
Our Town is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in Cobb County. Opinions expressed by the editorial staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town reserves the right to edit and or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyright 2025 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.
PUBLISHER/MANAGING EDITOR
Tara Hill Hanover
EDITOR/SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Justin Hanover
GRAPHICS AND DESIGN
Jules Fandos
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
West Cobb
Sara Young sara@ourtownmonthly.com
Andres Sandate andres@ourtownmonthly.com South Cobb
David
Kimberly Brinson
Amy Selby
Heather Meliski OTM Staff PO Box 813610 Smyrna, GA 30081-8610 (678)337-7844 info@ourtownmonthly.com www.ourtownmonthly.com
Summer is here! When it’s summer in Georgia, I get very happy and start thinking about all of the outdoor fun I want to have. This may include visits to the lake or the beach and those classic summer trips, but what I get really excited for is what I can do right here in my city. We have some great local spots that make it fun to be outside and active.
My favorite place for a quick activity getaway is Cochran Shoals, which is just east of The Battery along the Chattahoochee River. This National Recreation Area has a three plus mile gravel loop that is perfect for dog walking, taking a stroll with kids, getting in a quick jog, (you will see some fast runners here, that is not me) or making a couple of loops with a bike. There are a lot of options with some great urban forest and riverway scenery.
If you want more adventure, still come here! There are also hiking trails that follow the streams that feed the Chattahoochee. Following these well-maintained trails are a beautiful way to feel like you traveled far while still being in our urban area. Kids and adults like this equally.
Cochran Shoals is also a great place for mountain bikers to practice their skills and be back to “real-life” in a couple of hours. Its loop is about 6 miles, and you can add the Sope Creek loop for an additional 6 miles depending on your route. This is great for beginners, work up to doing both loops. I love the feeling I get knowing that I can travel through the woods on a bike, pop out at the Paper Mill Ruins, get back to my car, and still be home with plenty of time for supper. It is the perfect blend of nature, self-care, and taking care of the business of family and work.
2 3 4
I hear you! Summer in Georgia is hot and can be the reason to stay indoors with the A/C cranked up. Here are some tips on how to make your summer active, fun, and safe. Follow these guidelines and you will enjoy an outdoor active summer.
1
Activity early, Activity late. Spend your mornings and evenings being active to avoid the hottest part of the day. Also, let yourself acclimate. Try lots of short sessions until your body gets used to handling the heat.
Hydration is king. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to start drinking water. Hydrate before, during, and after. An electrolyte can help here too.
Dress for the occasion. Light colored loose clothing for most things. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are always good.
Listen to your body. No need to push yourself too hard, especially when you are acclimating. This is supposed to be fun!
Summer is here. School is out. Make a plan for how you want to be active this summer. Grab your best friend, partner, and/or your children and get outside and play.
By Justin Hanover
Pretty much one year ago to the day, back at the end of May, 2024, I wrote an article on the amazing run the Campbell High School soccer team went on in playing in its first ever State Championship final. It meant a lot to me, personally, as I coached the boys Junior Varsity team from 2017-2023 and 13 of those players were my players. The sweat equity I put in made it an amazing experience to see those young men do so well and advance so far, even in the eventual 2-0 defeat to Kennesaw Mountain.
Truthfully, I did not expect for that run to be topped, but just one year later, here we are!
Troy Connolly, the coach of both the boys and girls Varsity programs, led the 2025 boys back to the State Championship game, an amazing accomplishment on its own. But this year he coached his squad to victory in the season finale, by defeating the fourth ranked team in the nation in the Grayson Rams, 1-0, and capturing the school’s first ever state championship in soccer.
I spoke to Coach Connolly, who is a guy that I not only have a tremendous amount of respect for in the coaching world, but in life itself. He is a tough and fair-minded coach who gets the most out of his players and I absolutely loved being a part of his program for those seven years.
“Last year we were the underdogs for pretty much the entire season”, Connolly said. “We liked having that chip on our shoulder. But that all changed this year as we were the ones who now had the targets on our backs.”
Things, though, would not come easy. The team was very banged up to begin the season and needed to once again find its way. After starting the season just 1-4 he relied on his four Captains; Alessio Lois, Miles Russell, Misha Dahlen and Henry Schlichting. All four of these young men, coincidentally or not, happen to be four of my favorite players to have ever coached. They are four guys who will all be successful in whatever path they choose in life.
“We had some new pieces, some great young freshmen and a new goalkeeper. I never doubted the fight with this group, we just needed to realize who was needed where and after getting healthy, things started to click. Henry rallied the guys for morning workouts and pre-season kick arounds when I wasn’t allowed to be there. He didn’t need me to tell him anything. He was massive on the field and one of the best leaders I have ever had”, admitted Connolly.
The veteran coach would go on to gush about his other trio of Captains:
“Misha grew into his role becoming more vocal. He is a 6’6” beast who was forced into a new role with Henry’s early season injury. Miles and Alessio stepped up huge. They were guys that I could count on both on and off the field. Alessio was our team MVP this season and pretty much didn’t come off of the field. His growth from last year was insane. His motor never stopped and he did everything well and was a leader all over the field!”
The Spartans would win six games in a row in the middle of the season and after a tough 4-2 defeat to region rival Pebblebrook on April 3rd would finish second in the region at a gaudy 6-1.
In the playoffs Campbell would defeat Heritage of Conyers, 3-2, Lambert 2-1, Discovery 5-0, Duluth 3-1 and then at McEachern High School would win it all in that thrilling 1-0 victory over Grayson. Gavin Banks, who played wing back, center back, striker and midfield in this match alone, would score the game winner with just over 14 minutes remaining in the game.
“It hasn’t even sunk in yet. It’s tough to put into words what it means. It validates all of the hard work over the last 11 years here. This took everything lining up and clicking at the right time. Some insanely talented teams have crashed out in the past. Everything has to be lock step to win a state championship, from the trainers, to the AD, to the coaches, to the players, to the counseling department, to the athletic coordinators, to the Booster Club, everything. If it doesn’t all happen exactly as it did, I don’t know if we could have gotten over the line. But the bottom line is it’s not an accident as we have set ourselves up to have this.”
I asked my former “boss” how he has changed throughout the years as a coach.
“I’ve learned a lot as a coach and am a much better coach now. We have had a lot of building blocks to get here. Since Covid we have made at least the Elite 8. In the past we had what seemed to have two superstars at a time on our teams with guys like Dzenan Cerimagic, Segun Afolabi, Angel Gonzalez and Josh Acevedo. In the last two years we haven’t really had those superstars. We have built the depth where we can go three deep and have pieces we can move around. Our players have set the standards and the mentality of the team as a whole has been completely different from anything I have ever experienced.”
Are back-to-back championships on the table? Don’t doubt Coach Connolly and this blossoming program, that’s for sure.
Congrats and well-done Spartan Nation!
In the ever-evolving landscape of personal injury law, it is rare to find a firm that so seamlessly blends legal excellence with heartfelt community engagement. But in Cobb County, Williams Elleby Howard & Easter stands as a shining example of that ideal. Known not just for its courtroom victories, but for its personalized service and deep local roots, the firm has become a trusted ally for individuals navigating some of life’s most difficult moments.
At the core of the firm’s identity is a commitment to putting people first. Founded on the principles of integrity, dedication, and compassion, Williams Elleby Howard & Easter approaches every case with a client-centered mindset. Rather than treating clients like case files or numbers, the attorneys at this Kennesaw-based practice take the time to understand each client’s story, needs, and goals. This emphasis on personal service has helped the firm earn a reputation as not just skilled litigators—but as genuine advocates.
“We understand that when someone walks through our door, they’re likely going through one of the most painful experiences of their life,” says partner Joel Williams. “Whether it’s a serious injury, the loss of a loved one, or a complex legal dispute, our job is to help shoulder that burden—and we take that responsibility personally.”
That attitude permeates every aspect of the firm’s operations. From the first consultation to the final resolution, clients can expect regular communication, straightforward explanations, and strategic guidance grounded in years of legal experience. The team includes trial lawyers with deep knowledge of personal injury law, car accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice. Yet, what sets them apart is not just their courtroom skill — it’s their empathy, accessibility, and unwavering support.
This personal approach has translated into success, not only in terms of favorable settlements and verdicts, but in building long-term relationships based on trust. Former clients often speak of the respect and kindness they received, even when their legal matters were resolved. Many return with future legal needs or refer friends and family members, a testament to the enduring bond the firm builds with the community.
But the mission of Williams Elleby Howard & Easter goes beyond legal service—it is deeply intertwined with a commitment to Cobb County itself. The attorneys and staff are not just professionals working in the region — they are local residents, parents, mentors, and volunteers who believe in giving back to the community that has supported them.
“Our roots are here,” says partner Chase Elleby. “That means we don’t just want to win cases—we want to make our community stronger. We’re proud to support local schools, youth sports teams, charitable causes, and organizations that are working hard to improve the lives of others.”
That civic engagement has included everything from sponsoring community events and scholarships, to providing educational resources and pro bono legal services for those in need. During times of crisis, the firm has stepped up to provide assistance, whether financial or legal, with no expectation of recognition—only a desire to make a difference.
The culture within the firm also reflects this community-driven ethos. Collaboration, mutual respect, and ethical practice are foundational values at Williams Elleby Howard & Easter. The partners have created an environment where every team member, from senior partners to support staff, shares in the mission of delivering client-focused, compassionate advocacy.
It’s a vision that has resonated not only with clients, but with peers in the legal community. The firm and its attorneys have received accolades and honors for their work, but they remain grounded, continuously focused on serving clients with excellence and care.
In an era where law firms are sometimes seen as impersonal or overly corporate, Williams Elleby Howard & Easter offers a refreshing alternative. They are modern legal professionals who combine sophisticated legal strategies with the kind of personal touch that reminds clients they are not alone. Every case is approached with diligence, every client with dignity.
As Cobb County continues to grow, the firm remains committed to evolving alongside it—expanding its legal capabilities while staying true to the values that have defined its journey. Whether fighting for justice in the courtroom or supporting a local school fundraiser, Williams Elleby Howard & Easter is there: engaged, compassionate, and unwavering in their dedication.
For those seeking not just a legal representative but a trusted partner—one who will stand with them, fight for them, and treat them like family—Williams Elleby Howard & Easter continues to be one of Cobb County’s most respected and reliable legal resources. In every case and every community effort, they prove that true legal advocacy starts with heart.
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n the quiet hours of the night, when the world sleeps, caregivers remain vigilant, adjusting pillows, soothing restless loved ones, and changing bedsheets after unexpected accidents. For those tending to elderly family members, these moments are both acts of love and sources of exhaustion. CareQuest Solutions understands this intimately, having walked the same path. Their mission is rooted in empathy, aiming to ease the burdens of caregiving by addressing even the smallest details, like the comfort and practicality of bedsheets.
CareQuest Solutions was never just a business idea, it was born to make a difference, to walk with families through some of life’s most heartbreaking and sacred moments. For Mark Little, the founder, it became personal in December 2023, when his own family faced a reality no one is ever truly ready for. His mother was hospitalized and given a grim prognosis: she wasn’t expected to survive. Suddenly, Mark, along with his father and two sisters, found themselves making impossible decisions, decisions many families know all too well. With heavy hearts and tearful prayers, they chose to bring his mom home under hospice care, believing they had only a few precious months left.
These are very hard days, and the emotional toll on everyone involved is profound. That’s why every decision, including offering something as seemingly simple as quality bedsheets, comes from a place of empathy. Because sometimes, removing one small burden, like wondering if your loved one is sleeping in comfort, makes all the difference in a day full of difficult choices.
In the whirlwind of medical decisions and emotional upheaval, seemingly minor choices, like selecting the right bedsheets, especially hospice beds with a special Twin XL size, requiring deep pockets, can be frustrating to know if you are ordering from the right source. Recognizing this, CareQuest Solutions has introduced their line of Senior Comfort Care Bedsheets. Partnering with a direct importer of quality sheets with 16 years of proven quality, customer service, with a 100% money back guarantee. Shipped from our own warehouse in the state of Georgia. These sheets are designed with both the patient and caregiver in mind:
The months that followed were filled with 24 hour nursing care, emotional strain, and mounting financial pressures. The family had to adjust quickly, learning how to manage both practical caregiving and the emotional weight that came with it. Yet somehow, May 2025 arrived and Mark’s mother, suffering from dementia and enduring many difficult days is still with them. The road was long and still uncertain.
Then came a blow no one saw coming: on April 15, 2025, Mark’s father passed away. He was 94 years old, and while he had lived a full life, it was a profound shock to lose him first. After everything they had gone through with Mark’s mother’s condition over the past 14 months, they had mentally prepared themselves for her passing, but not his. The grief was layered, raw, and deeply personal.
This is the story behind CareQuest Solutions. It’s a mission anchored in God’s love, born from real heartache and real hope. Mark and the team know that behind every call, every email, every tearful conversation with a caregiver, there is a story just like theirs. CareQuest is here to walk alongside families in the darkest and most overwhelming seasons of their lives. It’s about putting people before profits, about serving with compassion, and about easing the burdens, big and small, that caregiving brings.
· Softness for Sensitive Skin: Crafted from fabrics gentle enough for fragile skin, ensuring comfort for those who spend extended periods in bed.
· Secure Fit: Equipped with deep pockets and straps to stay in place, reducing the need for constant adjustments.
· Convenient Sizing: Available in all sizes, especially special size of Twin XL, for hospital / hospice beds.
· Caregiver Bundles: A “Buy Two, Get One Free” bundles to ensure a clean set is always on hand, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of caregiving. Customers can select the sizes and colors.
By focusing on these details, CareQuest Solutions alleviates one more stressor, allowing families to concentrate on meaningful moments with their loved ones.
Understanding that caregiving extends beyond physical tasks, CareQuest Solutions offers a suite of services to support families:
· Placement Services: Assisting in finding the right assisted living or memory care facilities.
· Podcast Series: Sharing real stories and expert advice to empower caregivers . https://www.youtube.com/@CareQuestSolutions
These resources are offered at no cost, reflecting the company’s commitment to serving families with integrity and compassion.
CareQuest Solutions embodies the principle that caregiving should not be a solitary journey. By addressing both the emotional and practical aspects of elder care, they provide a sanctuary for families during times of uncertainty. Their dedication ensures that no one has to face the challenges of caregiving alone. For more information on their services and products, visit CareQuest Solutions or explore their bedsheet offerings at CareQuest Solutions Bedsheets.
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TMarquee Monday: The State of the County | June 2
he Cobb Chamber hosts engaging events throughout the year to help businesses build connections and grow their knowledge. You don’t have to be a member to attend! Register in advance at cobbchamber.org/events.
Gather with fellow business professionals over lunch and hear Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid deliver the 2025 State of the County address.
Cumberland Area Council | June 4
The new General Manager at the Cobb Galleria Centre, Charlie Beirne, shares an update on the facility’s upcoming renovations and its role in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game.
The Girl Who Wore Freedom | June 5
Watch this documentary that shares the connection many French citizens have with American veterans after D-Day. After the film explore the Merci Boxcar train exhibit.
Cobb Connections | June 16 & July 28
Build meaningful connections and business leads at this engaging networking event.
Smyrna Area Council | June 18
City leaders share how Smyrna is focused on expanding recreational assets, its economic development efforts and launching public health initiatives.
Business After Hours | June 26
Socialize in a relaxed setting while building business relationships at The Millery at Mableton.
South Cobb Area Council | July 10
Shelley Anthony, III of This is It! Southern Kitchen & BBQ shares how to scale a family business for growth without losing its soul.
For more information on membership, events, and other benefits, visit www.cobbchamber.org.
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ByAndresSandate
School’s out. The days are longer. And across Cobb County, families are swapping backpacks for beach towels, cleats for flip-flops, and schedules for sunshine.
Welcome to summer 2025: It’s the season of lemonade stands, relaxing at the pool, fireworks, and backyard cookouts. For kids, it’s pure freedom. For parents, it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and maybe even reset a few money habits along the way.
Sports, School Spirit & Local Pride: Youth sports are alive and well this summer. Whether it’s Little League state tournaments, softball games, or swim meets, kids are learning lessons that go far beyond the scoreboard—teamwork, resilience, and community.
Let’s start by giving a huge round of applause to several Cobb Schools State Champions:
Campbell High Boys Soccer, Georgia 6A State Champions
Walton Baseball, Georgia 6A State Champions
Walton Girls Soccer, Georgia 6A State Champions
Pope Girls Track and Field, Georgia 5A State Champions
And to the 8,500 Cobb Schools graduates—we’re cheering for you! Over 20 of this year’s 36 valedictorians and salu-
tatorians are headed to Georgia Tech, with other top choices including Kennesaw State, UGA, and Georgia State. Nearly $140 million in scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors, and 300 students will serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, including 10 military academy appointments.
Summer Spending, Made Simple: Summer fun can add up—camps, trips, and snack stops. Here are a few easy money tips:
n Create a “fun fund.” Let kids help plan within a set budget.
n Pick one big splurge. Go big on one Braves game or a lake weekend.
n Review your foundation. Summer is perfect for checking on savings, insurance, and goals before the busy Fall Back to School period.
And don’t forget—everyone can pitch in. A part-time job, mowing lawns, power washing the driveway, or selling unused sports gear helps kids support the fun and learn responsibility.
Learn, Play, and Grow Together: Area schools offer plenty of camps to keep kids active and off screens: Banana Ball-style wiffle ball, junior golf, volleyball, and basketball camps, to name just a few, plus STEM, arts, culinary, and architecture camps for high schoolers at Kennesaw State. Cobb Parks & Rec and local community parks organizations host many programs for adults and youth during the summer months. Local libraries offer summer reading challenges, encouraging kids to stay curious and engaged in good old-fashioned books.
Soak It Up: Summer is about making memories with neighbors and family— from backyard movie nights and potlucks, to s’mores under the stars. Cobb County shines brightest when we slow down and enjoy it together.
Here’s to sunshine, togetherness, and a season full of joy —and just a little financial wisdom, too.
Summer is upon us and now is the time to start thinking about fall travel. Out of all the fall months, October is my top choice as the perfect time to get away. The summer crowds are over and the holidays haven’t yet begun. The weather is cooler and prices and availability tend to be better. It’s also the perfect time to recharge before the craziness of the holiday season.
If you’re looking for some travel inspiration, here are a few ideas for your October vacation:
Northern Spain
From the pintxos bars of San Sebastián to the rolling wine country of La Rioja, northern Spain is an October dream. The weather is mild, the grape harvest is in full swing, and the cultural mix of seaside and countryside makes this the perfect escape.
Perfect Fit For: Food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and travelers who love mixing city, sea, and countryside.
Must Know: Fall is harvest season so book early for winery stays and tasting menus in La Rioja.
Bonaire
Crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and Caribbean calm—without the threat of hurricane season looming over your trip. Bonaire is the lesser-known island in the Dutch Caribbean, offering world-class snorkeling, diving, and laid-back island vibes. October brings warm weather, steady trade winds, and fewer crowds—making it a perfect time to unplug and unwind by the sea.
Perfect Fit For: Water lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone craving a peaceful tropical escape.
Must Know: Skip the mega resorts—Bonaire shines with boutique hotels and dive-focused stays. Book early for the best beachfront spots.
A true adventure, complete with snow-capped peaks, sacred temples, and crisp mountain air. October is one of the most beautiful times to visit Bhutan, with clear skies and colorful festivals like Thimphu Tshechu bringing the country’s spiritual and cultural traditions to life. Hike to cliffside monasteries, explore peaceful valleys, and experience the rhythm of life in the Himalayas. Perfect Fit For: Inquisitive travelers, culture seekers, and those craving something truly off the grid.
Must Know: Bhutan limits tourist numbers through a daily visa fee—your trip must be booked through a licensed tour operator.
October in Vermont is pure autumn magic. Whether you’re leaf-peeping along scenic byways, sipping cider at a roadside farm stand, or simply cozying up by a fireplace, this is the kind of getaway that feels both nostalgic and refreshing.
Perfect Fit For : Fall fanatics, couples, and anyone who lives for sweater weather and scenic drives.
Must Know: Foliage peaks at different times depending on the region—northern areas turn early, so timing is key.
What will it be? Sipping wine in Spain or sunbathing in Bonaire? Or maybe hiking in Bhutan or leaf-peeping in Vermont? You really can’t go wrong with any of these destinations.
Have a great summer!
Meliski is a travel advisor and the owner of Yellow Shoe Travel. She specializes in vacations to the Caribbean and Mexico, Europe, Hawai’i, Australia, Africa, the South Pacific, Asia, and more. Heather lives in Smyrna with her husband and two sons. heather@yellowshoetravel.com @heatheryellowshoetravel @yellowshoetravelheather
OverCelebrating 10 Years in North Atlanta!
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