OTM OCT25 (1-36-LR) by Tara Hill Hanover

STERLING ESTATES

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.

In This Issue

Cover

A golf and social spot that is already turning heads...you are invited to a new age of golf!.............................................15

Bubolo Medical, over two decades of being at the forefront of healthcare and aesthetics..................................................18/19

Women of Hope, providing emergency assistance to single parents in Cobb County................................................21

Food

Mark your calendar for this always delicious event, The Taste of Kennesaw.....................................................................24

ello October! It’s the perfect month to enjoy outdoor events. It’s time for family, freinds, festivals, pumpkin farms and more...the perfect blend of cozy, spooky and whimsical. The Harvest Moon arrives on Monday, October 6th and we have two meteor showers to look forward to as well, October 9th, 21st and 22nd. In addition to all of theses amazing happenings, check out all of the local events on pages 13, 14, 20, 24, 30!

“Enjoy the moments before they become memories”

I can’t wait to see you in the community this month and as the holiday season approaches.

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 EXECUTIVE

Sara Young sara@ourtownmonthly.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marcie Colt JRM Managemnt Amy Selby Ryan Blythe OTM Staff PO Box 813610 Smyrna, GA 30081-8610 (678)337-7844 info@ourtownmonthly.com www.ourtownmonthly.com

gracepointschool.org

What is a dyslexic learner? It’s not just “they can’t read”. Dyslexia looks different for each person. There are different characteristics. If your child is struggling with rhyming, learning letter names and sounds, and following directions particularly in preschool and kindergarten, you might have a dyslexic learner.

spaces available for the 25/26 school year; please contact admissions for further information.

In elementary school, if you see poor reading and spelling, confusing similar-looking letters (b/d), mixing up letter sounds, difficulty recalling sight words, and avoiding reading, you might have a dyslexic learner.

Dyslexia is not just mixing up letters, it is so much more!

WHAT IS A DYSLEXIC LEARNER? WHO IS A DYSLEXIC LEARNER? A DYSLEXIC LEARNER:

l is innovative and creative.

l is highly empathetic.

l intelligence does not match their production or testing in school.

l has exceptional spatial reasoning.

l may also share a diagnosis of ADHD.

l is a visual thinker.

l has outside-the-box problem solving skills.

l is hard working and entrepreneurial.

l excels in creative arts, science & technology, and engineering & construction.

l needs a school and an education that will nurture and celebrate their inherent gifts.

A dyslexic learner is defined by a language-based learning difference that requires sequential, systematic, and multi-sensory instruction. GRACEPOINT School, located in Marietta, Georgia, is a Christian-based, full immersion school for the dyslexic learner, utilizing the Orton-Gillingham approach in all subject areas. With systematic instruction, combining auditory, visual, and kinesthetic teaching, an environment is created that fosters greater success than the traditional classroom. “At GRACEPOINT, our teachers utilize evidence-based best practices for the instruction of dyslexic learners. We remediate dyslexia in an environment that identifies, develops, and celebrates the strengthsofeachstudent” says Liz Powell, Head of School at GRACEPOINT.

For a comprehensive dyslexia diagnosis, professionals from several fields collaborate as a team. Because dyslexia is a neurological language-based learning difference, this team examines language skills, cognitive function, educational history, and diagnostic testing.

To learn more, check out the International Dyslexia Association for more information in the IDADyslexiaHandbook–WhatEveryFamilyShouldKnow

Preschool Red Flags Language and Speech:

○ Delayed speech

○ Difficulty learning nursery rhymes

○ Trouble producing rhymes.

Memory and Following Directions:

○ Difficulty remembering the names of letters or the alphabet

○ Struggling to follow multi-step directions.

Talkin’ Sports

By Justin Hanover

Sports

The Magic of Sports Cards

On September 14th I took my son, Beckham, to the Culture Collision Card Show at the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth. He has become an avid baseball card collector and had been waiting to go to this particular show for the better part of 2025. In fact, he marked it on our calendar months earlier and in bright red with numerous arrows. Let’s just say he realllly wanted to go!

There were 450 tables in the venue and Beckham bought and sold cards like an old pro. This wasn’t his first show as he started collecting seriously about three years ago and is now a seasoned veteran at the ripe old age of 11. The kid is wise beyond his years and knows how to wheel and deal with the best of them.

This young generation, the generation of sitting around watching Netflix and playing video games, needs to take part in the card collecting industry, if they aren’t already. It has a passionate following and is made up of mainly good, genuine people who are very similar to me, middle-aged gentlemen who collected when they were younger in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s and have passed down the knowledge and love to their children. It almost creates a big family type atmosphere in the industry and when you go to the card stores or to the shows it shines through like a bright light.

Cobb County consists of tons of good quality stores and store owners. “Duck’s Dugout” in Marietta is an old school shop that has tons of cards and memora bilia and is a place where you can spend half your day.

Meanwhile the new wave multi-mil lion-dollar card store near the Bat tery, “Cards HQ”, has all of the glitz and glamour and an on line you tube type presence that seems to be live whenever we stop in. They feature anything and everything from $.50 bins to $35,000 or so rare and exclu sive sets.

“The baseball card hobby is super strong right now. Baseball cards have been super-hot and you’re seeing a lot of new interest in it. One thing that’s really cool is you’re starting to see a lot of play ers that are collecting. We’ve got a lot of players that come into Cards HQ, a lot of the Atlanta Braves pitchers like Chris Sale come in here and shop. I think baseball cards are in a great place right now,” said Geoff Wilson, owner of Cards HQ..

How did this all start for Beck ham? A simple birthday pres ent from his Aunt and Uncle. Just a small box of cards and it clicked pretty much from that point. He wanted more and just loved to look at his “inven tory” in his “office”.

The best part as a parent is seeing a true educational as pect come from all of this. It made him want to read the names of the players and the stats on the back. Instead of dreading to read, he was actually excited to see what player he would get next.

After a little while this little mogul was writing down what player cards he had and what players and teams he wanted to send a letter to in order to try and get more cards. Beckham wrote letters and addressed envelopes to the Braves and Yankees and Red Sox and whoever else he felt like writing to on that day. It opened up a whole new world and a fun way to get him to learn. Oh, and a special thanks to Ozzie Albies and the Braves for sending him a replica Ozzie chain. You think that wasn’t amazing for a then 9-year-old!?!?!? The Boston Red Sox also sent a goody bag that included some Fenway Park dirt and the Pittsburgh Pirates mailed a cool package as well.

There isn’t a teacher on the planet that could convince this fifth grader to read and write as much as he was. It was shocking to see him come home from school and whip out a pencil and paper and ask me to google various sports franchise addresses.

It all began with a little exposure and then took off like a rocket ship going to the Moon. I’m sure many of you have experienced a similar deal, but if not give it a shot. Check out a store or a show or even just buy a simple pack (no, sorry but they no longer put the hard pink gum in there) and see what it does for your son or daughter.

There is something absolutely magical to the world of sports cards!

Skin

Swing Into Fun at Acworth’s Premier Indoor Golf Experience Q&A

ight in the heart of downtown Acworth, Main Street has a new kind of venue, thanks to Fore Seasons Golf Club—a sleek, welcoming indoor golf and social spot that’s already turning heads. With five high-tech golf simulators, a PGA pro on staff, and a cozy bar with food and drinks, it’s a place where golfers and non-golfers alike can come together.

We sat down with owners, Jason and Kimberly Peacock and Tim and Amber Steele, to learn more about the inspiration behind Fore Seasons and what makes it such a special addition to the community.

Q:Let’sstartwiththebigpicture,whatgaveyoutheideatoopenForeSeasonsGolfClub?

A: Honestly, it started with our love of golf. But we also saw a gap in Acworth—there wasn’t really a place that blended golf with a social, welcoming environment. Traditional courses are great, but they can be intimidating or limited by weather. We wanted to create a space where people could enjoy the game year-round, no matter the season, and also have a place to hang out, grab a drink, and connect with friends.

Q:WhydidyouchoosedowntownAcworthashomeforForeSeasons?

A: Acworth is our home. This is where our family and friends are, and it’s a town that means a lot to us. We want Fore Seasons to be more than just a golf facility—We want it to be a gathering place, something that adds value to the community. Golf is the vehicle, but at the heart of it, this is about bringing people together, building something meaningful, and being able to give back.

Q:Sowhatexactlyisvirtualgolf?Doyouplaylikeyouwouldoutdoors?

A: Virtual golf uses advanced simulator technology—in our case, TrackMan—to recreate the experience of playing real courses indoors. You swing real clubs and hit real golf balls into a large screen. The simulator uses advanced radar and camera technology to capture your shot data instantly—things like club speed, launch angle, and spin rate—and then projects your shot onto a high-definition rendering of a course. It feels surprisingly authentic: you’re standing on a hitting mat with a club in your hand, seeing your ball fly just as it would outdoors. The only difference is you’re comfortable inside, playing rain or shine, any time of year…. and you’ll never lose a ball here!

Q:Iseeyouoffergolflessonsaswell.Whywasthatimportanttoyou?

A: Yes! We are fortunate to have a PGA Certified Director of Instruction, Larry Gantzer, as part of our team. For us, it was about making the experience complete. The Trackman technology is amazing, but pairing it with the knowledge and instruction of a PGA pro really sets us apart. Larry is one of the most skilled instructors in the region and he’s deeply passionate about helping people improve their game. He combines technical expertise with genuine care for each player’s progress, he’s the very best at what he does. Whether you’re brand new to golf or you’ve been playing for years, we feel having that PGA of America resource right here in Acworth makes Fore Seasons a place where you can improve, not just play.

Q:Tellusaboutyourleaguenights—howdotheyworkandwhocanjoin?

A: Our league nights are one of the best ways to experience Fore Seasons Golf Club and a great way to meet new people. We host weekly events where golfers of all skill levels can come together, play, and enjoy a friendly competition in a fun, low-pressure environment. Players can sign up individually or as a team, and each week we compete on a new course—so there’s always something fresh. Because we’re indoors, there are no rainouts or cancellations, and the simulators keep scoring accurate and fair. It’s a perfect mix of competition, community, and a night out with friends – plus weekly prizes!

Q:Soundsliketherearealotofoptionsforgolfers,butwhatifyoudon’tplay?

A: I’d say come with an open mind and give it a shot—you don’t need to be a golfer to have fun here. It’s easy to pick up, the simulators make it really engaging and we think everyone that tries it will have fun. You don’t have to play a full round of golf on a course, there are also several golf games to play, and honestly, it’s just a great social activity. Even if you never pick up a club, we’ve got a great beer and wine bar with small plate foods, plenty of TV’s with all the games on, and a comfortable lounge area that’s perfect for hanging out.

Q:Whataresomeofthemostfrequentlyaskedquestionsyougetfromfirst-timevisitors?

A: The top three questions we get are: Do you charge per person? Can I bring my own golf clubs? And do you rent your space? And the answers are: We rent our bays by the hour, not by the person (and up to 6 people can play in a bay at a time). We encourage people to bring their own golf clubs if they prefer, but it is not required. We have high-quality clubs available to rent. And yes, we do rent our space for private events.

Q:Anylastthoughtsorinformationforourreaders?

A: We believe golf is a great game for everyone! Whether you’re chasing a better score, looking for a fun night out, or just want a laid-back spot to watch the big game, we invite you to join us. Come see why our indoor golf lounge is quickly becoming the best place to play, connect, and make memories – no offseason required.

In Cobb County, Ga., where rising costs of living and unexpected financial challenges can destabilize families, 10 Women of Hope Inc. stands as a beacon of support for single parents facing critical financial emergencies. Founded in 2008, this nonprofit provides one-time financial assistance to stable single-parent or guardian families in Cobb County experiencing temporary crises. Through its mission-driven approach, collaborative partnerships, and community engagement, 10 Women of Hope has made a profound impact, offering not just financial relief but also hope for a brighter future to over 700 families since its inception.

Mission and Impact

The organization’s one-time grants assist families in overcoming immediate financial hurdles, such as unpaid rent, medical bills, or utility costs, preventing cascading consequences like job loss or homelessness. Additionally, these grants can bring joy by funding summer camp or activity fees for children whose families’ budgets barely cover necessities.

The vision of 10 Women of Hope extends beyond temporary aid, aiming to create lasting, positive outcomes by empowering families to regain stability and move forward with confidence. By focusing on one-time support, it ensures that generally self-sufficient families facing unexpected setbacks receive the help needed to stay on track.

Leadership

Founded by Patsy Bryan, a retired City of Marietta employee and single mother, 10 Women of Hope was inspired by her understanding of the vulnerabilities of single-parent households facing unplanned expenses. Patsy reached out to Penny Warren, a Cobb County School social worker and her friend Carla Brown with her idea. Bryan rallied nine other community leaders to establish the organization. Among them was Angie Davis, the current chair, who brings extensive experience as the inaugural clerk for Georgia’s State-wide Business Court and former clerk of court for Cobb County’s State and Magistrate Courts. As the daughter of a single mother, Davis has a personal connection to the mission. She said, “Growing up with a single mom, I saw firsthand how a single unexpected expense could threaten our stability. 10 Women of Hope steps in to provide critical support, ensuring families can keep moving forward.”

Another founding member, Fran Sutton, a lifelong Marietta resident, leverages her community ties to advance the organization’s goals. Jacki Payne, a Cobb County resident for more than 20 years and managing attorney of the Kinship Care Unit at Atlanta Legal Aid, and also a founding member, brings her more than 30 years with the State Bar of Georgia to enhance advocacy for families. These women combine expertise and passion to drive success.

Empowering Single Parents in Cobb County, Georgia

A new generation of “The 10” has been recruited as founding members transition to emeritus status. Marietta native and Cobb Chamber Executive Vice President of Advocacy Amanda Seals joined when Bryant invited her to take her place. “As the daughter of a single mom who sacrificed everything so I would not go without, I knew this was a way to help others who lacked the options my mom and I had growing up,” Seals said. “Plus, I don’t think many people have ever told Patsy no. Look at the legacy she’s created.” The “new 10” (joining founding members Davis, Payne, and Sutton) includes Seals, Alexis Blackmon, Kate Gaffney, Kimberly Harmon, Heather Johnson, Molly Metz, and Jaclyn Wood, who are poised to carry forward the organization’s mission with fresh energy and dedication.

Operations

10 Women of Hope operates through a network of trusted community partners to ensure aid reaches those most in need. Collaborators include Cobb County School Social Workers, Marietta City School Social Workers, SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, LiveSafe Resources, Cobb Juvenile Court, Cobb Superior Court Accountability Court Programs, Cobb Legal Aid, and Loving Arms Cancer Outreach. These partners refer families, as 10 Women of Hope does not accept direct applications. This referral-based system ensures assistance is directed to verified cases, maximizing impact. For example, a single mother named “Marie” was referred after a three-week hospitalization left her unable to pay rent. The organization’s timely intervention helped her avoid eviction, demonstrating the power of its targeted approach.

Community Engagement

The organization connects with Cobb County through vibrant fundraising events that boost awareness and resources. Its flagship event, the annual Girls’ Night Out Shopping Event, held on the third Thursday in October, will move to The Foxglove Marietta in 2025 to accommodate growing demand, offering more space for vendors and attendees. With presenting sponsor S.A. White Oil Co., and food by Carriage House Catering, this lively evening of shopping, sipping, and socializing features tickets priced between $25 and $35. Events like Girls Night Out and other giveback opportunities in the community and the support of local small businesses, not only help the 10 Women raise funds but also strengthen community ties to the organization’s mission, enabling countless families to overcome financial challenges and achieve lasting stability.

For over 17 years, 10 Women of Hope has been a lifeline for single-parent families in Cobb County, Ga, awarding over $650,000 in aid to its grant recipients. As it continues to grow, the organization remains a testament to the power of collective action and compassion in addressing the challenges faced by single parents.

To learn more about 10 Women of Hope and its impactful work, including details on upcoming events like the Girls’ Night Out Shopping Event, visit its website at www.10womenofhope.org.

“Dominion

In-Home Services for Seniors by Seniors

There’s

In-Home Services for Seniors by Seniors

There’s

A Taste of Kennesaw:

n Saturday, November 1, 2025, downtown Kennesaw will once again transform into a vibrant hub of flavors, music, and family fun as the Superior Plumbing Taste of Kennesaw takes over Main Street from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hosted by the Kennesaw Business Association and the City of Kennesaw, and produced by JRM Management Services, the annual event has become a fall tradition that draws more than 25,000 people each year.

Food lovers will have plenty to savor, with more than 35 restaurants from Kennesaw and the greater Cobb County area serving up their specialties. Guests can look forward to bites from beloved local favorites such as The Melting Pot, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Zeke’s Kitchen, Copelands of New Orleans, Bernie’s, Williamson Brothers BBQ, 1885 Grill, The Angry Crab Shack, and Gus’s Fried Chicken, among others. With sample portions priced between $1 and $10, the festival offers an affordable way to enjoy a wide range of cuisines.

The Beer Garden will provide a perfect spot for adults to unwind with a beverage, catch live music, and even watch the day’s football games on the big screen. Families and holiday shoppers will enjoy browsing the Georgia Grown Member Village, which will showcase unique locally made goods and fresh finds ideal for early Christmas gifts.

Entertainment will run throughout the day on the Main Street stage, where local musicians and performers will keep the crowd energized. Children won’t be left out either—plenty of activities, from inflatable slides to bounce

houses, will keep younger guests entertained while parents sample food and mingle with neighbors.

Beyond the food and festivities, the Taste of Kennesaw serves an important purpose: giving back to the community. Proceeds from the event will benefit five local charities, including Shop with a Mustang, Shop with a Warrior, Shop with a Longhorn, the Jerry Worthan Community Christmas Fund, and KSU Cares. This charitable focus ensures that every bite supports a good cause.

Parking will be available at multiple convenient spots, including throughout downtown, Adams Park, and the First Baptist Church of Kennesaw. Admission to the event is free, making it an accessible and family-friendly outing for the entire community.

The Taste of Kennesaw is more than just a food festival—it’s a celebration of local culture, cuisine, and community spirit. With its mix of diverse restaurants, live entertainment, children’s activities, and opportunities to give back, the event has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie eager to try new dishes, a family looking for a fun day out, or a local resident wanting to support worthy causes, November 1 promises to be a day to mark on the calendar.

For more information, visit kennesawbusiness.org or search “Taste of Kennesaw” on Facebook.

Saturday, November 1, 2025

• Kitchen, bath, and basement remodeling

• Interior & exterior painting

• Home gyms

• Room additions & sunrooms

• Deck replacement/repairs

• Whole house remodel

• Dog washing stations

l Bath w/Hydro Massage l Ears cleaned Nails Trimmed l Sanitary Trim

l Basic De-matting

l Full Brush & Blow Dry l Shave downs l Full cuts

OverCelebrating 10 Years in North Atlanta!

Mobile Dog Grooming

The waggin’ wagon provides professional mobile dog grooming services to the North Atlanta community. We are currently servicing Buckhead, Brookhaven, Smyrna, Vinings, East Cobb, West & South Marietta, Sandy Springs & Dunwoody extending 3 miles north of I-285.

jerry@ericksonconstructionservices.com

Cobb Chamber Connection

Supporting Public Safety Heroes

The Cobb Chamber will host its annual Public Safety Appreciation Week October 6–10, a special time set aside to honor the brave men and women who keep our community safe every day. Throughout the week, the Chamber and business community will come together to recognize the dedication of Cobb’s police, fire, sheriff’s deputies, school safety officers, EMTs, 911 Communication personnel, and other first responders. Public Safety Appreciation Week is a chance for all of us to say thank you—and we invite our local businesses and neighbors to join in celebrating the heroes who protect and serve Cobb County.

How to Get Involved

• Stop by the agencies in your neighborhood to say thank you. Bring handwritten thank you cards.

• Bring goodies to the stations. Here are a few ideas:

• Cases of sports drinks and energy drinks

• Individually packaged snacks

• Multiple small amount gift cards to restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, gas stations, etc.

• Organize a cookout/meal prep for the agencies in your area.

• Promote the week to your customers via email and social media.

• Provide a surprise delivery for agencies in your area (boxes of coffee, pizzas, home-cooked meals, flowers etc.).

• Display Public Safety supporter images on your website, company signage, and in email newsletters.

For more information about the 2025 Public Safety Appreciation Week, visit www.cobbchamber.org.

Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm

Sunday: Noon to 5 pm

As public confidence in colleges has crashed in the past decade, the college for all mentality is collapsing. Fortunately for Cobb residents, there is a transformative program that has been disrupting for the last thirteen years. At Georgia Trade School outcomes matter, employers are sought after and students and families from across the United States have invested in their future.

The American Welding Society anticipates over 320,000 new welding professionals will be needed by 2029 with 80,000 jobs filled annually between 2025 and 2029 due to industry growth, retirement and advancement. The possibilities are endless from boilermakers to sheet metal workers, structural iron and steel workers, metal fabricators and fitters supporting shipbuilding, manufacturing, construction, energy and film and television.

An independent school without government grants or financial aid programs our students have skin in the game creating a culture of motivation and excellence. Our award-winning staff includes multiple Certified Welding Inspectors and Educators and the very best gas supply, tool and equipment vendors in the United States. Multi-Billion-dollar companies have partnered with and co-branded with our small business because of the school’s reputation and student quality.

Very humbly launched in Kennesaw with just seven students in 2012, today GTS has more than 2000 graduates producing nine figures in annual salaries. Six years ago, we moved to Acworth, purchasing the historic Rothschild Mill and now offer three class schedules daily from Monday to Thursday. Our

Full-Time class can be completed in just four months and is often waitlisted for several months. Part Time classes allow flexibility for students that need to balance work or family. These still can be finished in just six months and with rolling enrollment there is no need to wait for a new semester.

We are proud to be a Cobb based business and have many community relationships with booster clubs, board appointments including an advisory role at the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy and philanthropic opportunities. Seven times, GTS earned a Top 25 Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Business of the Year nomination. Eighty percent of the program hours are spent on direct hands-on experience and practice. There is nothing virtual or simulated. Students can test for up to thirteen industry credentials.

By offering just a single program, Plate and Pipe Welding GTS staff have been able to develop deep relationships in the welding industry with employers, top vendors, and media. The Founder of GTS serves on the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association Education Council and served as the Chairman of the Board of the Gulf States Shipbuilders Consortium alongside publicly traded heavyweights in the defense industry. Here in Cobb, our graduates worked extensively on Truist Park and the Battery. In entertainment on top programs like Stranger Things and set design for a Tony nominated Broadway production. GTS graduates have even done work for the Super Bowl and the White House. With quarterly career fairs, students often receive multiple offers before they even graduate. In an era with ballooning tuition, millions buried in debt and sinking academic standards education is under scrutiny. Our relentless focus on delivering opportunity and return on investment is the smart bet.