Our Town Monthly SEP25 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.

Health & Nutrition

Back to School Meal prep with Our Town’s favorite nutritionist, Allyson Balzuweit...............................................8

Talkin’ Sports

Friday Night Lights are back!. Which Cobb team can win it all in 2025?............................................................................11

Cover Story

Welcome to Providence Dental Spa, your new dental home that includes luxury spa services...........................................15

Community Spotlight

Atlanta radio star Jenn Hobby’s new amazing chapter........21

Food & Entertainment

A community tradition is back! How can you get free or discounted tickets with Superior Plumbing Presents North Georgia State Fair?.....................................................................23

Business

Cobb Chamber Connection Fall Events: Golf, pickleball and so much more! ..........................................................................34

because it is one of the only things we can really depend on... and Fall shows us how beautiful change can be. Embrace the change of every season my friends and live every day with

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

Allyson Balzuweit JRM Management Amy Selby OTM Staff PO Box 813610

www.ourtownmonthly.com

Back-to-School, Back to Real Food:

6 Nutrition Tips for Busy Moms

Now that summer has come and gone, and the backpacks are back out, moms everywhere are feeling the shift: schedules tighten, routines pick back up, and the challenge of juggling it all is starting to kick in. Between school, work, sports practices, and trying to keep everyone fed, it can feel like there’s barely a minute to breathe—let alone meal prep.

But here’s the thing: feeding your family nourishing meals doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need color-coded meal plans or gourmet recipes. You need simple systems, real food that works for real life, and a little grace. Whether your evenings are jam-packed or just the normal type of busy, these tips can help you get back on track with nutrition this school year—with less feelings of overwhelmed, and without surrendering to the drive thru on a regular basis.

1. Keep a “Short List” of Go-To Meals You don’t have to reinvent dinner every night. Choose 5–7 easy, balanced meals your family already loves and rotate them each week. This creates a predictable rhythm that reduces decision fatigue. Bonus: your grocery list practically builds itself. Sample go-to meals:

• Taco night (beef, chicken, or beans)

• Stir-fry with chicken, frozen veggies and rice

• Pasta with ground turkey, spinach, and marinara

• Sheet pan meals (I’ve got a good one for you below!)

• Breakfast-for-dinner (eggs, toast, fruit)

2. Batch Prep Like a Minimalist Meal prep doesn’t need to take over your Sunday. Instead of cooking full meals, think of prepping building blocks. Choose 2–3 items that will save you the most time during the week. Quick batch-prep ideas:

• Grilled or shredded chicken (works great in a slow cooker)

• Washed/chopped veggies and fruit

• Cooked rice or quinoa

• Homemade dressing

• Hardboiled eggs

You’re not prepping for perfection, but these basic tasks will save you time and energy all week long!

3. Use the 2-for-1 Rule Whenever you’re cooking, ask yourself: can I double this and use it another way? Examples:

• Roast double veggies and add them to wraps, quesadillas or omelets later.

• Cook extra ground beef for tacos and use the rest for quesadillas or pasta night.

• Make extra pasta and repurpose into pasta salad for lunches. Work smarter, not harder.

4. Embrace the “Snack Board” Dinner Some nights, a traditional meal just isn’t realistic—and that’s okay. A well-balanced snack plate can be just as satisfying. Snack plate building blocks:

• Protein: hard-boiled eggs, turkey roll-ups, cheese cubes, uncured meat

• Carbs: whole grain crackers, mini pitas, popcorn

• Veggies: cucumbers, carrots, cherry tomatoes

• Fruit: apple slices, grapes, berries

• Healthy fats: hummus, guacamole, nuts or seeds

It’s simple, fast, and fun for kids – especially when they all have different preferences.

5. Take the Shortcut You don’t have to do everything from scratch to eat well. Convenience items can be your best friend—especially during a busy season. Look for pre-prepped items that cut down on time without sacrificing nutrition.

ust steps from the Silver Comet Trail, marks Big Peach’s 9th franchise location! More than just a retail destination, the “Comet

Come experience Big Peach’s signature curated selection of running shoes, apparel, and gear, alongside its expert fitting services and personalized advice, plus gear from popular running specialty vendors such as Altra, Asics, Brooks, Hoka, New Balance, Nike, Oofos, On, Puma, Saucony, and more, plus regularly hosted group runs, training programs, and

Dietitian-approved shortcuts:

• Pre-washed salad greens and slaw mixes

• Pre-cut veggies and fruit

• Rotisserie chicken

• Microwaveable rice or quinoa packets

• Frozen brown rice or cauliflower rice

• Jarred sauces with clean ingredients

• Frozen veggies that steam in the bag

6. Let the Kids Help Even young kids can get involved in the kitchen. Let them wash veggies, scoop rice, stir sauces, or help pack lunchboxes.

Getting kids involved builds skills and makes them more likely to eat what’s served

- less complaining, more connection.

Start small. Keep it real. And remember—you’re doing an amazing job!

Allyson Balzuweit is a Registered Dietitian based in Smyrna and has a private nutrition consulting business. She loves to help people ditch diets and embrace a healthy and realistic approach to eating for optimal health with individualized strategies that considers all aspects of life.

Talkin’ Sports

By Justin Hanover

Sports

IUnder Those Friday Night Lights!

feel like every year at this time I say the exact same thing, “Is it really already High School football season?”

I mean, where did the Summer go? Football time already? It just gets quicker and quicker every year. Absolutely crazy!

Let’s take a look at some of our Cobb County High School teams, a county which has won four state championships over the past 10 years. It certainly hasn’t come easy as the last to do so were Marietta and Harrison back in 2019,

So, what are we looking at here in 2025????

NORTH COBB WARRIORS

Head Coach Shane Queen is now the longest tenured coach in 6A thanks to the recent retirement of Norcross’ Keith Maloof. Queen has been there and done that and has had some really good football teams over the years. But the Warriors have not been able to get over the hump and win the big one. They are once again favored to win the region with Walton probably the biggest challenge.

North Cobb received a huge boost in the offseason as Quarterback Teddy Jarrard, who had such an amazing sophomore season at North Cobb Christian decided to move a mile down Old Highway 41 and become a Warrior. Jarrard led NCC to that incredible quarterfinal upset down at Savannah Christian, pretty much shocking the world and should team up with running back Zach Belyeu who scored three times in the opening 28-14 victory against the Archer Tigers.

Jarrard, who is a Notre Dame commit, was the Region Player of the Year in 2024 and threw for 4,712 yards and an incredible 49 touchdowns in his first two seasons alone. Look for 6’3” 320 pound Brandon Anderson and the rest of the Warrior offensive line to keep Jarrard upright and have another tremendous year.

KELL LONGHORNS

Bobby May is now in his fourth season coaching at the Stockyard and will once again face a very tough region with the likes of Blessed Trinity, Westminster, Cambridge and Centennial.

Junior Quinterius “Moonie” Gipson is one of the best running backs in the entire state. He rumbled for almost 200 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the easy 44-21 opening game blowout win against Tyler Chukuyem and South Paulding. The Longhorns scored three times in the opening 13 minutes of the game and raced out to the 34-7 lead at the half.

The defense is absolutely locked and loaded led by the super talented middle linebacker Brayden Rouse and Jalen Williams. Rouse is a 6’2”, 220-pound force who compiled 105 tackles in 2024, 14 of which were tackles for loss. The senior also moonlights as a tight end and caught 25 balls for 378 yards and 8 touchdowns. Rouse is a first team All-State honoree and a top 100 prospect in the nation. The Tennessee commit is the second highest rated Kell prospect ever behind former Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket Jonathan Dwyer.

MCEACHERN INDIANS

I’ll repeat what I said last year, there may not be a better overall program in the state of Georgia than McEachern. The problem though has been a lack of championships throughout the years. In fact, the Indians may be the best school ever to have not won a football championship.

McEachern may have its most talented senior class in years as head coach Kareem Reid begins his 19th overall season of coaching. 5-star sophomore Casey Barner went crazy in the opener scoring three touchdowns and racking up 341 all-purpose yards en route to the 50-17 blowout win over Walton. Yes, you read that right, “50-17 over Walton,”

4-star stud wide receiver Nalin Scott, who has both size and speed, is committed to Nebraska after decommitting from Arizona State. Harrison and Hillgrove will be prime competition for sure but in the end these Indians from Powder Springs are probably the class of a very deep 6A region 3.

SPRAYBERRY YELLOW JACKETS

2024 was an absolute breakout season for the boys from Sandy Plains Road. Brett Vavra led his former school to an 11-2 overall mark and a region championship. The Yellow Jackets eventually succumbed in the quarterfinals to a really good Lee County team but the standard was set.

Vavra left for Etowah over the summer and former Hiram coach Pete Fominaya has taken the reigns. The cupboard is full as AJC Super 11 cornerback Jorden Edmonds , uber talented quarterback Jaden Duckett and safety and UGA commit Kealen Jones will lead the way. Edmonds is a 6’2” Alabama commit and touted as the best corner in the country who also plays some wide receiver. Duckett is a do it all signal caller who can beat you with both his arm and his legs. Last season he threw for almost 2,000 yards and 14 touchdowns while rushing for 805 yards and 16 touchdowns.

If the 48-6 first game victory over Alexander is any indication, then this team is ready to compete for another region championship and maybe, just maybe, a little more.

MT. BETHEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY EAGLES

Mt. Bethel has literally no shot to win anything yet as they are a brand-new program that is not even playing a region schedule. But a big shout out to Head Coach Micah Hughes, Athletic Director Cal Boyd and the rest of the terrific people over there in East Cobb who have not only been building this program from scratch but just erected the amazing T. Calvert Student Center.

It may not be Buford’s new 62-million-dollar Philip Beard Stadium but these Eagles have been doing some great things off of Post Oak Tritt Road including shutting out a 4A school in Clarkston in a scrimmage, 20-0 and dominating Asheville Christian Academy, 55-0. Look out for this small 1-A program in the years to come!

In-Home Services for Seniors by Seniors

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Our loving and compassionate seniors are there to help. We offer all the services you need.

Jenn Hobby’s New Chapter: A Voice for Childhood Cancer Q&A

In this issue, we sit down with Jenn Hobby, an adored Atlantan and media personality, to discuss her career pivot to a new role at CURE Childhood Cancer. From groundbreaking research to essential family support, Jenn sheds light on how CURE is making a profound difference in the lives of families fighting childhood cancer.

OUR TOWN: Jenn, congratulations on this professional transition! We understand you’re bringing your extensive media background to CURE in this new role. Can you tell us about this move and what it means to you personally?

OUR TOWN: Speaking of CURE’s mission, let’s delve deeper into the research. You mentioned the significant investment in precision medicine. Can you explain what precision medicine is and why it’s such a game-changer for children with cancer?

Jenn: It means so much, thank you! My career in media has been a huge part of my life, giving me an incredible platform and a voice in our community. However, my perspective shifted after our daughter bat tled cancer. We’re incredibly fortunate that Reese is now healthy and can cer-free. That experience ignited a deep passion within us as a family to use our voices to serve other families fighting this disease. Children deserve better therapies and treatments, with better outcomes and less long-term effects. I am wholeheartedly committed to bringing my storytelling expertise and media background to CURE Childhood Cancer as their new Brand & Communications Director. It is exactly where I’m meant to be.

OUR TOWN: That’s a powerful personal connection to the mission. CURE Childhood Cancer has been a beacon of hope for so many families. Can you tell us about the organization’s core mission and its overall impact?

Jenn: Precision medicine, or personalized cancer medicine, is truly revolutionizing how we treat childhood cancer. Unlike traditional treatments that take a broad-stroke approach, precision medicine recognizes that each child’s cancer is unique, driven by their individual genetic makeup. The process involves performing genetic testing on a child’s tumor or blood to identify specific genetic markers that are driving the cancer. This allows doctors to tailor treatments directly to those genetic alterations, meaning more effective therapies and a reduction in the use of toxic drugs that might not be effective for that specific child.

OUR TOWN: That’s fascinating. And are you already seeing the impact of precision medicine?

Jenn: Absolutely. Our research over the past five years has shown that for children who have access to genetic sequencing, an astounding 85% receive information that significantly impacts their treatment. This really highlights the power of precision medicine to offer new hope, especially for children whose traditional treatments haven’t been successful. Our goal is for precision medicine to become the standard of care for all children with cancer.

Jenn: Yes! CURE Childhood Cancer was founded in 1975 with a singular mission: to conquer childhood cancer through funding innovative research and providing comprehensive support to children and their families. This year is our 50th anniversary! CURE’s impact has been significant. In the last decade alone, we’ve invested a staggering $45 million into vital research. This commitment has led to remarkable improvements in survival rates, though it’s important to remember that cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease for children, and over 95% of survivors face long-term health issues. At CURE, we believe Precision Medicine is a game-changer for children with cancer. That’s why we have invested more than $16 million since 2017 into programs that bring this innovative treatment option to children. Only a small fraction, a mere five percent, of the National Cancer Institute’s budget goes to childhood cancer, so organizations like CURE are vital in driving progress.

OUR TOWN: Kristin Connor, CURE Childhood Cancer CEO, expressed immense excitement about you joining the team, highlighting your authenticity, passion, and unique understanding of the childhood cancer journey. How do you see your personal experience informing your work in this new role?

Jenn: My lived experience with our daughter’s cancer journey gives me a deeply personal understanding of what these families go through. It’s not just a professional endeavor for me; it’s a calling. I’ve walked in their shoes, experienced the fear, the hope, and the challenges. My husband Grant and I always talk about how the childhood cancer family is one you would never sign up for, but once you are a part of it, you are a member for life. We have made so many wonderful friends who have all been impacted. This understanding will drive everything I do in my new role – from elevating CURE’s brand and amplifying the voices of these brave children and their families to building support for CURE’s mission. I want to ensure their stories are heard and that the public understands the critical need for continued research. I’m also excited to illustrate the incredible work CURE is doing every day, so that our generous donors understand the progress in research and support that they fuel.

OUR TOWN: Beyond the research, CURE also provides comprehensive support to families. Can you share more?

Jenn: Family support is integral to our mission. We understand that a cancer diagnosis turns a family’s world upside down, and we aim to walk with them through every step of that journey. This often begins on day one at the hospital, where we meet families and provide them with a resource bag, a binder of information, and comfort items to help them navigate those initial overwhelming moments.

We also provide critical emergency financial assistance for things like rent, housing, meals, and gas. When a child is in treatment, parents often can’t work, and these funds alleviate a huge burden. We also provide “Open Arms” meals right in the hospital, toiletry bags, and “boredom buster bags” for the children during long hospital stays. Sadly, for families who experience the unthinkable, we offer a bereavement retreat, financial support, and counseling services to help them cope with their loss.

OUR TOWN: Thank you, Jenn, for sharing these insights into the vital work of CURE Childhood Cancer. How can our readers get involved?

Jenn:Thank you very much for allowing me to share my story and our mission.

We would love for your audience to learn more at curechildhoodcancer.org and follow us on social media @curechildcancer. Your support can truly save a child. My deepest hope is for more children in this fight to have a story just like Reese’s…one of triumph over childhood cancer.

2025 Superior Plumbing presents NORTH GA STATE FAIR!

The Superior Plumbing presents North Georgia State Fair is returning with the $23.95 Advance Pay One Price ride ticket. The ticket is good for any one day of the fair and does not include admission. This is not only a significant savings but will hopefully provide a more efficient experience for fairgoers as well. The ticket is only available to purchase online before opening day, September 18. The Fair will also sell advance online admission tickets for $10 versus $15 at the gate during the fair. New this year, seniors 55 and older will receive discounted admission at $10 during the fair. In addition, the fair will now offer FREE parking, and Pay One Price Ride specials every single day of the fair, as follows:

Thursday, September 18th Free Admission

$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Friday, September 19th Free Admission for all Seniors 55+ and older. Free Admission for all Active, Reserve or Retired Military Personnel, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, First Responders, and Healthcare Workers. (Valid ID Required)

$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Saturday, September 20th 10 AM – 11 AM Free Admission & Rides 11 AM – 5PM $35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person – Good Till Close)

Sunday, September 21st Receive $1 off Admission w/ Church Bulletin. School Special – 12:30 – 2 PM Free Admission & Rides for Students (18 & Under – Must have ticket distributed at school)

$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Monday, September 22nd $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Tuesday, September 23rd

Teacher Tuesday – All teachers & district employees admitted FREE with staff ID

$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Wednesday, September 24th

$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Thursday, September 25th

College Night – All college students receive free admission with Valid ID. $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Friday, September 26th Must Ministries Admission Special – Bring 5 Non-Perishable canned goods and receive one free admission. (MUST NOT BE EXPIRED) $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

Saturday, September 27th Must Ministries Admission Special –Bring 5 Non-Perishable canned goods and receive one free admission. (MUST NOT BE EXPIRED) 10 AM – 11 AM Free Admission & Rides

11 AM – 5PM $35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person – Good Till Close)

Sunday, September 28th

Must Ministries Admission Special – Bring 5 Non-Perishable canned goods and receive one free admission. (MUST NOT BE EXPIRED)

School Special – 12:30 – 2 PM Free Admission & Rides for Students (18 & Under – Must have ticket distributed at school)

LAST BLAST! - $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (Per Person)

ADMISSION: $15 PER PERSON | $10 SENIORS 55+ | FREE CHILDREN AGES 10 & UNDER **Please visit our website for updated traffic plans** More Info: missy@northgeorgiastatefair.com | northgeorgiastatefair.com 1220 Al Bishop Drive | Marietta, Ga.30008

Presented by

NOW ENROLLING PRESCHOOL

-

GRADE

* Restrictions apply. Visit Sixflags.com for details.

SELECT NIGHTS, SEPTEMBER 13 - NOVEMBER 2

• 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

“Working with Jerry was a great experience! My clients were extremely happy with the work when it was finalized.” — James Robbins, Realtor/Full Basement Remodel

Cobb Chamber Connection

Fall Event Calendar

The 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.

Marquee Monday: Emerging Industries | Sept. 8

Hear from leaders at the forefront of manufacturing, life sciences, and public safety technology.

Cobb Chamber Reed Leeper Classic | Sept. 15

Join us for our annual golf and pickleball tournament.

Public Safety Awards Luncheon | Oct. 6

Help us honor and celebrate our local public safety heroes.

73rd Annual ARMAC Military Appreciation Luncheon | Nov. 6

Major General Richard “Dwayne” Wilson, the newly appointed 44th Adjutant General of the Georgia Department of Defense, will deliver a keynote presentation.

For more information on membership, events, and other benefits, visit www.cobbchamber.org