Cobb Life Magazine - Fall 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

Plus

Alley Stage brings cackles to Cobb

Epic Journey: Mariettan treks the Inca Trail

Cobb’s Claim to FURRY FAME

Meet the local pet pros who’ve landed national stardom on Animal Planet

FF

CL COBB LIFE

EXECUTIVE

PUBLISHER

Otis Brumby III

GENERAL MANAGER

Lee B. Garrett

V.P. OF CONTENT

J.K. Murphy

Cobb Life is published nine times a year by the Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 25,000 homes and businesses.

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EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR

Skyler Heath

CONTRIBUTORS

Matthew DeBuscchere, Logan Gordon, Terrie Guthrie, Skyler Heath, Lisa Mowry

PHOTOGRAPHY

Robin Rayne

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Windsor Armour

ADVERTISING STAFF

V.P. OF SALES

Bob McCray

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Becky Opitz, Paula Milton

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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Windsor Armour, Erin Barkwell, Tona Deaton, Jennifer Hall, Beth Poirier

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Dave Gossett

Beyond the Atlanta Braves and the Big Chicken, Cobb boasts a unique claim to fame: it’s home to two of the nation’s top pet behavior experts. Meet Ingrid Johnson, a feline specialist who teaches cats to ride skateboards, and Victoria Stilwell, star of the TV show “It’s Me or the Dog.”

10 Spice

Fall would be incomplete without its signature flavors: pumpkin spice, apple and cinnamon. Matthew DeBusschere aka Marietta Food Guy has curated two seasonal recipes — an apple spice bundt cake and a pumpkin spice margarita — perfect for tailgates, holiday parties and cozy gatherings.

14 Comedy

When Colt Chambers purchased a former theater venue in Marietta, he didn’t exactly know what to do with it — only that it had potential. Today, the Alley Stage is breathing new life into Cobb’s comedy scene and bringing the community together through laughter.

30 Journey

Marietta resident Terri Bunten Guthrie recounts the highs, lows and winding journey of hiking the legendary Inca Trail — a four-day, 27-mile trek that took her 14,000 feet above sea level and tested her endurance like never before.

40 Travel

Water therapy is real. Travel columnist Lisa Mowry has a full itinerary for three destinations that get you up close and personal with rivers and oceans: Columbus, Georgia, Hilton Head, South Carolina and Puerto Rico.

letter from the editor

GREETINGS, COBB LIFERS!

It’s like we blinked and summer was over. School is in full swing, the scorching temps are finally tapering (thank the Lord), and we’re easing into the coziest time of the year: fall!

From the breathtaking fall foliage to tailgates and pumpkin spice, there’s truly nothing like autumn in Georgia.

Around this time last year, I experienced a momentous life change. I rescued my first cat, Winnie. If you’re a fellow feline enthusiast, you know the cat distribution system works in mysterious ways. One day, you’re living a cat-free life, and the next, a furry stranger has claimed your heart. (For the uninitiated, the “cat distribution system” is a tongue-incheek internet theory that cats are mysteriously “assigned” to people at random.)

I met Winnie on the way home from a long day at work. As I pulled into my apartment complex, I nearly hit a tiny kitten darting across the lot. I slammed on the brakes and jumped out, just in time to see him disappear into an abandoned house next door. I kept telling myself to walk away, but something in me wouldn’t let go.

Every day after work for a week, I brought him wet food, keeping a respectful 5-foot distance as he ate. Slowly, I inched closer. Then, one day, I knew it was go-time. I ordered a humane trap off Amazon, loaded it with his favorite food and waited in my car. Five minutes later, I had him. He was not thrilled; he was hissing, hollering and convinced I’d just ended his nine lives.

Once I got him home, he hid in my closet for three days. I asked myself more than once, “Skyler, what were you thinking?” But I didn’t give up, and by the end of that week, he was sleeping on my head, purring nonstop and becoming my new best friend.

Now, I can’t imagine life without Winnie. And whether you’re a cat or dog person (I personally love both), I’m sure you understand. Animals are the purest souls on earth, right there with children. They bring healing, unconditional love and zero judgment to a world that desperately needs all three.

Without them, who would we be and what would our life look like?

That’s why, for our Fall 2025 issue, we’re celebrating the animals that make our lives whole. Our cover story features Ingrid Johnson and Victoria Stilwell, two nationally recognized pet behaviorists with deep roots in Cobb County. Johnson, who runs Paws Whiskers and Claws, a feline-only veterinary hospital in Marietta, has trained cats to ride skateboards and play miniature pianos, while Stilwell stars in her own TV show, “It’s Me or the Dog,” which had several episodes filmed right here in Cobb County. Though they work with different species, they share a powerful mission: building better bonds between people and their pets.

In addition to our cover story, this issue has a little something for everyone. For the foodies and fall fanatics, Matthew DeBusschere aka Marietta Food Guy has curated two festive recipes — an apple spice bundt cake and a pumpkin spice margarita — that are perfect for tailgates, family gatherings and cozy nights in.

For the comedy-lovers, we have a feature on the Alley Stage, an intimate comedy club tucked off Marietta Square. Hear how its owner, Colt Chambers, came to found this beloved staple, and how it’s breathing new life into Cobb’s comedy scene.

And, for the adventurers, Marietta resident Terri Bunten Guthrie recounts the highs, lows and winding journey of hiking the legendary Inca Trail. This four-day, 27-mile trek took her 14,000 feet above sea level and tested her endurance like never before. Her story is sure to astound and maybe even inspire.

Of course, Cobb Life would be incomplete without a travel story. In this issue, travel columnist Lisa Mowry has a full itinerary for three destinations that get you up close and personal with rivers and oceans: Columbus, Georgia, Hilton Head, South Carolina and Puerto Rico.

I hope this fall brings warmth, connection and joy with the people — and fur babies — you cherish most.

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recipes

Fall Spice Everything

Seasonal treat & sip to elevate your autumn celebrations

Written by MATTHEW DEBUSSCHERE

Fall is my absolute favorite season and I know I’m not alone. I’ve seen social media influencers posting fall content immediately after the Fourth of July. While we’re all still sweating in 90 degree weather, you’re sure to see friends posting pics of their inaugural sips of a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice latte, or someone wearing a sweater and a cup of coffee as soon as we feel the first (almost) cool breeze in the morning. No shame… I’m more excited to welcome fall than my own birthday. Maybe it’s because fall is the kickoff of a very exciting season: first football, then Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Or maybe we’re all just eager to put the humid, near-tropical Georgia summer heat in our rear view mirror.

One of the first pleasures I indulge in each fall is a long walk through my neighborhood, covered in a canopy of old trees while listening to a fall-themed jazz playlist. It’s the same playlist every year. I add a few songs from time to time, but my absolute favorite is “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” — the theme song (written and performed by Vince Guaraldi) of the Halloween Charlie Brown special. This mid-century jazz masterpiece puts me in the right mood every time. It sounds like falling leaves with a tinge of the mysticism naturally curated by a season marked by hibernating flora. Give this track a listen while you work through my recipes, or on your next walk through the neighborhood.

Maple Glazed Ginger Apple Spice Bundt Cake

For the last couple of years, I’ve daydreamed about making an apple spice cake. I’d never eaten one, but the idea of it always sounded good to me. I don’t know why I hadn’t made one until now, but the impending deadline of this article finally pushed me to do it. I’ve had more experience making cocktails than food, so I had the idea of incorporating ginger beer into this cake because I know how well it would pair with apple in a cocktail. My mother-in-law often uses soda in her cakes, so I knew it could work. This cake has a ton of essential fall flavors and would be suitable for any event from now until the end of the year.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups All-purpose flour

2 tbsp cornstarch

½ cup milk

1 cup sugar

½ tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

1 egg

8 fl oz ginger beer

½ oz ginger puree (you can use a tube of premade puree found at any grocery store)

4 oz apple sauce

Maple Syrup Glaze

1 Cup Powdered Sugar

3 Tbsp Maple Syrup

1 Tbsp Milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F with a rack in the center. Prepare a 6-cup bundt pan by greasing and flouring generously.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda.

3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, ginger beer, apple sauce and ginger puree. Add ginger beer mixture into the bowl with the flour, and stir until just combined, and there are no large streaks of flour.

4. Transfer the batter to the prepared bundt pan, using a flexible spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl.

5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bounces back when you gently press it, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 30 min on a trivet.

Then, invert over a large plate to release. If needed, swipe a flexible spatula gently around the outside of the cake to separate stubborn pieces.

7. After demolding, while the cake cools completely, whisk together the sugar, maple syrup and milk for the glaze. Transfer to a measuring cup or other container with a spout for pouring.

8. Pour the glaze over the completely cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides both inside and outside the cake. Let sit for five minutes to harden, and serve immediately. Or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

The Great Pumpkin Spicy Marg

This cocktail is a seasonal favorite at my restaurant, Marietta Melt Yard. One day, a sales rep stopped by and he was on his way to a work function where he needed to figure out an interesting way to use a new pumpkin spice puree his company was featuring. We were playing around with it and he suggested I make a margarita. Honestly, I thought this was a silly idea and had never heard of a pumpkin spice margarita, but I humored him and made one with habanero tequila… the result was so unbelievably delicious that I added it to our cocktail menu immediately and it turned out to be a big hit. While we use habanero tequila (which is next level spicy and lingers in the back of your throat); you can turn it down a notch and use a jalapeno tequila if you’re not into super spicy drinks.

Ingredients

2 oz Tanteo Habanero Tequila (or Tanteo Jalapeno)

2 oz sour mix (can be purchased or made from scratch by combining equal parts sugar, lemon juice and lime juice. Google for a quick recipe if you feel unsure).

1 oz lime juice

1 oz REAL (brand) Pumpkin Spice Puree Tajin (for the rim)

Instructions

1. Place glass upside down on a plate with lime juice or sour mix, then place wet rimmed glass on a separate plate of tajin. The tajin will adhere to the wet ingredient to create a flavored rim.

2. Combine all ingredients (except tajin) in an ice filled cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Pour the contents of the shaker into your rimmed glass, garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy!

TOP: This apple spice bundt cake with homemade maple glaze is sure to score a touchdown at any tailgate or fall gathering.

RIGHT: For the skeptics who claim pumpkin and tequila don’t mix, Marietta Food Guy’s Great Pumpkin Spicy Marg is bound to prove them wrong.

Matthew

DeBusschere aka Marietta Food Guy is the co-owner of Marietta Melt Yard. He has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 15 years. Follow his Marietta food journey on Instagram @mariettafoodguy.

One Comedy Club, Lots of Laughter

How the Alley Stage is revitalizing Cobb’s comedy scene

Written by LOGAN GORDON // Photography

ROBIN RAYNE

Colt Chambers, owner of the Alley Stage in Marietta, sits in front of the venue’s intimate stage on Anderson Street.

by

Tucked away in a quiet alley of downtown Marietta sits the Alley Stage, an intimate comedy club hidden in plain sight.

What first started as a dream for a 27-yearold has grown into a comedic staple for Cobb Countians seeking fun, lighthearted live entertainment. But how did this unassuming building on Anderson Street come to revitalize Cobb’s comedy scene?

Colt Chambers, owner and producer of the Alley Stage, first encountered the space while working as managing director at the Atlanta Lyric Theater, which owned the venue. Even then, he felt drawn to its potential.

Unfortunately, after 42 seasons, the Atlanta Lyric Theater closed fully on March 7, 2023.

But when one curtain closed, another

opened. Chambers approached the owner, also a close friend, about purchasing the space. When he got the greenlight, his ideas lit up like fireworks.

“I said, ‘I want it. I don’t know what I want to do with it, but I want it,” Chambers said.

The Alley Stage first opened its doors in July 2023, and its inaugural production was a comedy show. Ticket sales skyrocketed as locals were eager to watch comedians perform in a new venue.

In retrospect, Chambers and his staff first envisioned the Alley Stage as a multi-purpose venue, not a niche comedy club. From live music to plays, the Alley Stage hosted several forms of entertainment, but comedy is what has stuck and carried on.

Now, three years later, the Alley Stage staff

Lisandra Vasquez executes one of her jokes to a crowd of people for one of the venue’s weekly shows.

represents an eclectic mix of comedians and comedy lovers who organize four to five shows a week with different themes.

The week starts with Open Mic Comedy on Tuesdays. Comedians sign up weeks in advance of the show and are given 15 minutes to test out their materials on the audience. They don’t have to be experienced comedians to participate, as the night almost serves as a space to test new material, gauge audience reactions and see which jokes land.

Wednesday nights are Improv at the Alley Stage. After working with some of the comedians on staff to learn the basics of improv, novice jokesters perform on-the-spot, friendly banter with one another in front of an audience.

The week closes with Comedy on the Square

every Friday and Saturday, which are top of the line for the Alley Stage.

After being hand-picked by staff, seasoned comedians go up on stage to a crowd of 110 people, dropping some of their best one-liners while telling a story. These shows have the biggest turnouts, audience and comedian wise, and they keep people laughing until their cheeks hurt.

Outside of the regular shows, the Alley Stage sometimes holds special comedy shows, including “ShakesBEER,” a boozy adaptation to Shakespeare held last February.

With these five shows a week, the Alley Stage has welcomed more than 42,000 residents into the venue and has put on over 500 shows since its opening.

Lisandra Vasquez lands a punchy one-liner that brings about smiles to 110 guests at the Alley Stage’s weekly “Comedy on the Square” show.

Colt Chambers, owner of the Alley Stage, grew up in a family of entrepreneurs who sought out to bring their business ideas to fruition. Naturally, it was only right for Chambers to follow in their footsteps.

Artistic Freedom

As it continues to grow, the Alley Stage has not only become a staple for residents, but the venue is also a place for comedians to develop their skills.

Comedian Casey Navarro has been performing at Alley Stage since its early days. Six months after its opening, she joined as a regular comedian and performed almost every week, but then quickly took on new leadership roles.

Navarro helps lead improv and run the stages for multiple shows, including the venue’s popular improv nights. She’s also working alongside Chambers to develop a summer program that teaches kids the art of comedy. But it’s not these teaching opportunities that

drew her in. It was the venue’s character and charm that cemented her love for the Alley Stage.

“The venue, as a stand-up comedian of 15 years, is one of my favorite rooms and any place I’ve toured because it is such an intimate space,” Navarro told Cobb Life.

As a performer who’s traveled to New York, Los Angeles and Chicago for her shows, Navarro said the Alley Stage has become another home for her, offering her growth and opportunities that continue to excite her.

“I feel like every time I play the Alley Stage, whether it’s the improv stage or the stage for stand-up shows, I get to help people escape from whatever reality they are in,” Navarro said.

And it isn’t just the venue itself that keeps her around, but it’s also the management.

“Colt’s a great boss,” she added. “He gives a lot of artistic freedom. I don’t ever feel micromanaged by him in any way.”

Artistic freedom is fundamental at the Alley

to Cumberland Mall, Truist Park, and right off of I-75

Come sample our Japanese sushi, Hibachi, and a variety of salads. With 250 items, we have a great selection of both Chinese & American food.

17 bars, 250 items,

Stage, Chambers said, emphasizing the importance of giving performers full creative rein at their shows.

Through previous leadership roles at the Atlantic Lyric Theater and Georgia Ballet, Chambers learned how to create a space for performers to thrive creatively.

Giving Back

Comedy and creativity aren’t the only things Chambers wants for the Alley Stage. Giving back to the community is another vital part of his business plan.

The Alley Stage is one of the rare spaces to be structured as a nonprofit business, especially in the metro Atlanta area. That makes it one of 15,000 nonprofits scattered among the 200,000 profitbased businesses.

Having worked for nonprofits for the majority of his career, Chambers knew he wanted to tie philanthropy in with the Alley Stage.

GLOW INTO FALL

September 8 - 12

Zain Sharif, one of Alley Stage’s returning comedians, recounts a story to the crowd during the Alley Stage’s 500th show.

Proudly serving the East Cobb community for over 30 years, DESSNA provides

“I knew that whatever I did, I wanted to be able to use this space to be a force for good,” Chambers said.

Through this mindset, Chambers and his team were able to partner with the Vettix Program, a project designed to provide free tickets for veterans, active-duty military personnel and their immediate family members.

To date, the Alley Stage has donated over $150,000 worth of tickets to veterans and their families, and it has also helped the venue in a way.

“We have people that come through here, and they’ve received free tickets from the program, and then we see them again,” Chambers said.

“Sometimes they use the Vettix again, but sometimes they also say, ‘Hey, no. We came, we bought tickets because we want to support what you’re doing.’ And now it’s become something great for our business in every aspect.”

Outside of the Vettix program, the Alley Stage has also hosted other nonprofit organizations that need a space for free. Or, they’ll host Comedy with a Cause, where all ticket sales benefit local organizations such as LifeSafe Resources in Marietta.

Looking Ahead

Chambers envisions the Alley Stage growing in three different ways, starting with expanding its schedule to six shows a week instead of just five. His ultimate goal is to transform the venue into a premier destination not just for Cobb but for the entire South.

The next step toward growth focuses on 100% of programming to be produced in-house. Currently, they occasionally allow outside businesses to book the venue

for their own events.

“The third and final thing is we want to continue doing what we’re doing,” Chambers said. “We want to continue to prioritize excellence in our programming and customer experience. And, we want all of Cobb County to know we’re here.”

The Alley Stage is a small, intimate venue that may fly under the radar for some, but for those who’ve experienced it, it offers a unique sense of familiarity — a place that just might start to feel like home.

“I do think that is part of the experience, you know?” Chambers said. “You’re not just coming for a comedy show, but it feels like you’re sitting in someone’s living room just listening to them tell a story.”

Colt Chambers, owner and producer of the Alley Stage in Marietta, stands outside of the venue speaking with a guest before their 500th show.

~ Bill and Sally R.

Written by SKYLER HEATH

& Paws Claws

Photography by ROBIN RAYNE

Cobb’s surprising connection to nationally recognized pet experts

Cobb County has several claims to fame, with the Braves, the Big Chicken and Six Flags all at the top of the list. But beyond the ballgames and bucket-list landmarks lies a lesser-known bragging right: Cobb’s connection to two of the nation’s top pet behavior experts.

One has trained cats to ride

skateboards and play miniature pianos. The other stars in her own TV show, helping families turn their unruly dogs into beloved companions. Meet

Ingrid Johnson and Victoria Stilwell, two nationally recognized animal experts with deep ties to Cobb and a shared mission to build better bonds between people and their pets.

Victoria Stillwell:

The Dog Don of Cobb Victoria Stilwell always aspired for a career on the big screen — just not one filled with wagging tails and treat pouches. Growing up, the future star of popular show “It’s Me or the Dog” had dreams of becoming an actress.

Her introduction to dogs came in the early ‘90s while saving money for drama school. Stilwell

took her sister’s advice and began dog sitting, a common side hustle in the veterinary field, where her sister worked as a nurse. One client quickly ballooned into 20, and within a few weeks, she had a bustling dog-sitting business.

“As soon as someone knows you’re trustworthy then everyone wants to hire you,” she said.

As Stilwell spent more time with dogs, she discovered a natural connection with them. She was captivated by their distinct personalities, from the rambunctious energy of Boxers to the intelligence of German Shepherds, and appreciated how each dog had its own quirks and charm, much like people.

“I did not have a clue what I was doing, but my dogs would listen to me,” she said. “I didn’t put pressure on them. There was no training involved, no expectations.”

Despite the success of her dog-walking business, Stilwell’s acting aspirations didn’t budge. So, she opted to juggle both. She enrolled in drama school, signed with an agent and booked her first professional gig in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” She later performed in several musicals in the West End, which she described as London’s Broadway, all while continuing to care for dogs, including ones with famous owners.

“I dog sat for some very well-known people and very

From left, Ingrid Johnson holds her golden Bengal cat, Tonka, who’s more interested in eating grass than picturetaking, while Victoria Stilwell sits beside her with Sven, a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees. The two nationally recognized pet behavior experts have deep ties to Cobb County, helping pets and their owners live in harmony.

Victoria Stilwell is a world-renowned dog behaviorist, author and the star of “It’s Me or the Dog,” which aired on Animal Planet for four seasons, two of which were filmed in Atlanta and Cobb County.

wealthy people in London,” she said, remaining tight-lipped about names. “I don’t talk unless I’m photographed with a famous client. I treat my famous clients the same as I treat the clients that are not famous.”

Stilwell made a pivotal decision to pursue dog training professionally. She studied under some of Britain’s most respected positivereinforcement trainers and behaviorists and earned certifications through the Animal Behavior Training Associates and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

In 2000, Stilwell moved to New York City with her husband, Van, where she spent five years balancing her acting career and growing dog-training business.

“After a couple of years, I decided that I loved acting, but I loved training dogs more,” Stilwell told Cobb Life. “I just loved being with animals. I loved seeing the change. I loved going into homes where there was such disharmony and creating harmony.”

Stilwell became especially passionate about helping rescue animals in need of behavior

rehabilitation. Witnessing the crisis of overcrowded shelters, she became determined to help owners on the brink of surrendering their dogs. She reached out to several media outlets — newspapers, TV stations, magazines, even the “Today Show” — but got little traction. Then, inspiration struck while watching “Super Nanny,” a British reality show that followed Jo Frost as she helped parents improve their children’s behavior.

Stilwell saw parallels between Frost’s methods and her own, prompting her to email the show’s producers with a pitch for her own version, called “Super Trainer,” where she’d work with unruly dogs and their owners.

The production company responded within a day. She submitted a tape of her in action with a family and their misbehaving dog in January 2005, and by March, she was filming the pilot of “It’s Me or the Dog” for Channel 4 in the U.K.

The show’s popularity skyrocketed. Animal Planet picked it up in 2007 and commissioned four additional seasons in the U.S., bringing the

total to eight seasons, including two filmed in Atlanta.

Several episodes of “It’s Me or the Dog” were filmed right here in Cobb County. Through her work, Stilwell has also visited the Cobb County Animal Shelter on numerous occasions, spoke at local schools about dog safety and collaborated with several local pet-focused nonprofits, including Homeless Pets Foundation in Marietta.

“Cobb County was a lovely place to work,” she said. “So many people are dog lovers, so many people want to do right with their dogs. It’s just a lovely dog-owning community.”

Through her show, Stilwell helped hundreds of families avoid giving away their dogs by teaching positive reinforcement training techniques. She taught owners how to understand their dog, its behaviors and how to rewire their habits through positivity and praise.

“As positive trainers, we incorporate humane, scienceled techniques to teach dogs and people skills to live successfully together,” Stilwell said. “We don’t use shock collars or choke chains. We teach real-world skills that dogs are going to need to thrive.”

5

DOG TRAINING TIPS FROM VICTORIA STILWELL

1. Prioritize safety. All animals need to feel safe — it’s their most basic and essential need. Create a secure environment for your dog and avoid punitive tools like shock collars, prong collars or choke chains, which can harm both trust and well-being.

2. Training happens all the time. Your dog is constantly learning, not just during designated training sessions. The environment you create and the way you interact with your dog daily has a major impact on their behavior.

3. Focus on the relationship. Building a positive, trusting relationship is not a weakness — it’s crucial to your dog’s emotional health (and yours). Play games, create positive experiences and make teaching fun.

4. Enrichment matters. Make time for daily activity and mental stimulation. Tailor exercise to your dog’s age and ability — puppies and seniors need gentler play, while adult dogs benefit from more active routines that should be increased gradually. Not every dog needs a walk every day, but all dogs need daily enrichment.

5. Stick to a routine. Dogs thrive on routine and predictability, especially for nervous dogs. Consistent schedules for meals, walks and potty breaks help reduce anxiety and build confidence.

She said dogs’ cognitive abilities are similar to toddlers, which is why successful training comes from patience, not pressure.

And understanding a dog’s behaviors — not just its needs — is what makes someone a great guardian. Instead of scolding your pooch for digging up tulips or chewing a new pair of sneakers, she said owners should recognize these actions as natural instincts and redirect them in constructive ways.

“Stop labeling behavior as good or bad,” she said. “Chewing, digging, jumping — those are natural for dogs. We just need to help them navigate our human world without losing what makes them dogs in the first place.”

Beyond her show and several other television appearances, Stilwell has remained active in advocacy and education. She’s a proud board member of the Georgia Pet Coalition, which focuses on passing animal-

centric legislation at the state level. One of the organization’s recent victories includes the passage of House Bill 331, which prohibits the sale or adoption of pets in certain public locations such as flea markets and parking lots — a key move in the fight against puppy mills.

“This is vital,” she said. “It’s a huge win. We’ve got a massive pet overpopulation here in Georgia. Our shelters are filled to capacity.”

Stilwell is also the founder of the Victoria Stilwell Academy, an international school that trains aspiring dog behaviorists. She runs Positively.com, a popular online hub offering courses and resources for dog guardians around the globe. And, despite a packed schedule, she’s still filming — most recently a rebooted version of “It’s Me or the Dog” in the U.K. “I want people to see how incredible dogs are,” she said. “The more shows I can do to show that, then that’s it. I’ll keep going until I can’t anymore.”

Ingrid Johnson:

The Cat Whisperer of Marietta

For Ingrid Johnson, working with cats has never been a hobby but a lifelong calling. The New York native grew up in what she calls a “multi-pet household,” surrounded by cats, dogs and even a rabbit.

“I’ve spent four months out of my entire life without cats — and they were very lonely months,” Johnson told Cobb Life. “I was just one of those kids where my pets were my best friends. I didn’t have the closest friendships as a kid, so animals became my world.”

Over the years, Johnson has cared for 31 cats of her own. But through her decades of consulting and veterinary work, she’s helped thousands more. Johnson is the only Certified Cat Behavior Consultant in Georgia through the International

Victoria Stilwell with Sven, a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees.

Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, a credential that required more than 1,500 hours of consulting experience, multiple case studies and a written exam.

“It was well worth it,” she said. Today, Johnson wears many hats. She runs Fundamentally Feline, a behavior consulting business with clients around the world, and manages Paws Whiskers and Claws, a felineonly veterinary hospital in Marietta, where she serves as a technician, groomer, adoption counselor and behaviorist.

Her expertise has made her a trusted voice in the field. She’s spoken at Atlanta Humane Society events, led volunteer training sessions at Mariettabased Good Mews Foundation and given lectures for veterinary professionals at IAABC’s Pounce! conference and Royal Canin webinars. She also serves as co-director of the Georgia

Cat behaviorist Ingrid Johnson is the co-founder and manager of Paws Whiskers and Claws, a feline-exclusive veterinary hospital in Marietta. She has worked exclusively with cats since 1999, though they’ve been a central part of her life since birth.

SUPERIOR PLUMBING IS PROUD TO

5

CAT BEHAVIORS INGRID JOHNSON SAYS WE OFTEN GET WRONG

1. Cats hunt and eat alone

Lining them up to eat in the kitchen is one of the single most stressful things humans impose on cats. It is not natural! The client says, “But they eat together just fine!” Well of course they do, food is the highest value resource offered, they must push though the stress to sustain life. They do not have to use a litter box, drink water etc., but they must eat.

2. Belly-up isn’t an invitation

When a cat shows you their belly, it’s a sign of trust — not a request for tummy rubs. Unless you know your cat enjoys belly scratches (and won’t suddenly grab and bite), keep your hands to yourself. A gentle head scratch or kind word is a better way to reciprocate their trust.

3. Ditch the cave-style litter boxes

Cats prefer large, open litter boxes with soft, unscented litter. Enclosed boxes, pellet-style litter and scented options can create discomfort.

4. Clean like you mean it

Cats don’t want to step in their own waste — would you? Scoop at least twice a day to ensure their bathroom stays as fresh as they expect.

5. Two is better than one Adopt in pairs, especially with kittens or bonded littermates. Solo cats raised without feline companionship often struggle with social skills, making future introductions difficult. Keeping siblings or families together helps cats stay emotionally balanced and keeps the peace at home.

chapter of the Paw Project, a national organization working to end the inhumane practice of cat declawing, and has been featured in a slate of print and online publications, including CNN, WebMD, Cat Fancy magazine and the Atlanta JournalConstitution.

Johnson said her most exciting media appearance was on Animal Planet’s “Cats 101,” a series exploring various cat breeds through expert insights and owner testimonials. She appeared in the episode featuring the Colorpoint Shorthair, a vocal, affectionate and attentionseeking variety of the Siamese. Producers flew to Atlanta and filmed at her home, which she and her husband, Jake, then shared with three Colorpoint Shorthairs, two Siamese and three large dogs. Despite being a modest space that might not seem ideal for multiple cats, Johnson’s home is a feline’s paradise, complete with catios, wall-mounted shelves, scratching posts and toys in every corner. The episode highlighted

her clever use of environmental enrichment techniques to keep cats stimulated, engaged and stress-free.

Johnson said being a go-to voice in cat behavior is a rewarding honor that comes with great responsibility. While many view cat ownership as the

easier alternative to having a dog — just topping off food bowls and scooping litter boxes — she emphasized that felines are complex creatures who thrive on routine and require a variety of enrichment to stay happy and healthy.

“You do not have to walk them in a rainstorm, (but) that’s about all you get to knock off the care checklist,” Johnson said.

Stress, boredom and frustration are among the leading causes of behavioral issues in cats. The most frequent problem she encounters is aggression, often caused by poor introductions, mismatched personalities or redirected energy, followed closely by litter box avoidance. Johnson said she’s never felt completely hopeless about helping a cat. In tough cases, it’s usually the owner she worries might hinder the animal’s progress.

“These problems are often

Tonka, Ingrid Johnson’s Bengal, enjoys a treat after performing one of his signature tricks.

much easier to fix if humans are open to making the changes I recommend,” Johnson explained.

Through her website, FundamentallyFeline.com, Johnson offers a full library of educational resources on cat care, from the basics of feline ownership and training fundamentals to caring for handicapped cats.

And yes, house cats can be trained — not just to perform fun tricks like riding skateboards, but for practical tasks such as taking medication, walking on a leash or willingly entering a carrier. In fact, Johnson believes training is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the bond between cats and their humans.

“I once taught a 9.5-year-old cat who didn’t like treats or human food to ride a skateboard,” Johnson said. “Training gives you a language to communicate with your cat.”

Johnson said misinterpreting feline behavior is another common hurdle. Many owners confuse rough

play between cats for aggression or assume a cat turning its back is being aloof, when it’s actually a sign of trust.

“The cat is showing you they trust you by being vulnerable and giving their back,” she said.

Through her long-standing career of helping feline friends and their humans build a better bond, Johnson said she couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“Cats are one of the single most successful species on planet earth,” she said. “They are so resilient, strong, smart and adaptable. I am in awe of them every day. I am so grateful that I have been able to make a career out of saving their lives and helping others do the same.”

TOP: Feline expert Ingrid Johnson’s cat Tank, an orange and white domestic shorthair, plays a miniature piano, one of the many tricks Johnson has trained her cats to do.

BOTTOM: Tank, one of Ingrid Johnson’s five cats, shreds a skateboard for treats and pets.

A journey to

Machu Picchu

The highs, lows & ultimate reward of hiking the Inca Trail

By TERRI BUNTEN GUTHRIE

After six months of intense training, planning and preparation, I finally embarked on a Peruvian adventure: hiking the Inca Trail. This four-day, 27-mile journey would take me 14,000 feet above sea level and push my endurance to its absolute limits.

The Road to Cusco

All trips to Machu Picchu begin in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Our journey started five days before we even set foot on the trail, with a 6.5-hour flight to Lima, Peru. We flew in the afternoon and stayed overnight in Lima. Since Cusco is at 11,700 feet of elevation, we opted for one of the first morning flights to Cusco, just in case weather caused delays.

The flight to Cusco was just over an hour. Going from sea level to a cruising altitude of 25,000 feet, then landing at 11,700 feet, was a unique experience; our ears didn’t fully clear for more than a day. Hiking guide companies recommend at least three days in Cusco to acclimate, which proved absolutely necessary. The next morning, I woke with the worst headache, the kind you’d expect after a wild night out.

During those three days, we walked everywhere (slowly, as even the slightest incline felt like climbing a mountain), did some souvenir shopping, drank plenty of coca tea (the local remedy for altitude sickness), ate incredible food and learned about the Peruvian people and their Inca roots. By the time we started our trek, we felt truly immersed in the culture.

Day 1: The Inca Flats

Our adventure began on Sunday, May 27, with our tour company picking us up at our Cusco hotel at 4:45 a.m. We drove 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, formerly the royal palace of the Inca Emperor, for a traditional Peruvian

breakfast of breads and coffee.

When we returned to the van, it was full of not only us, but also our ten porters, who joined our guide and chef for the final 30-minute drive to Kilometer 82, the official start of the Inca Trail. While we prepared our daypacks, the porters, the unsung heroes

of this journey, meticulously packed duffels with our clothing, sleeping bags and tents, along with the utensils, pots, pans, table, chairs and propane tank they would use to prepare our meals.

We had booked a private tour for our group of four, but our total entourage consisted of 16 people. Our ten porters carried everything, set up and broke down camp, and filtered fresh water daily. Our chef, who also hiked with a 45-pound pack, prepared three gourmet meals each day. And then there was Henry, our amazing guide, who at 47 had been on the Inca Trail a thousand times. While his “job” was to manage our hike time and translate, his real value was his profound knowledge of the Incas. He began sharing their history before we even stepped onto the trail, offering insights all along the way.

We officially began our hike at 9 a.m. after presenting our passports. It was a beautiful blue-sky day, as were all the days, as we chose to go during their winter/dry season. Temperatures started in the 40s and never exceeded 70, but with the level of exertion, we would quickly shed layers. Most of our backpack space was filled with these removed layers, along with snacks, electrolytes, a first-aid kit, our phones (for pictures), portable chargers and plenty of sunscreen.

Our guide, Henry, with his thousand treks under his belt, provided an incredible education on Inca civilization throughout the four days. He also had a great sense of humor, which was much needed as we approached the first big climb. He playfully called it the “Gringo Killer” and blasted “Eye of the Tiger” from a portable speaker to motivate us.

The first day’s trail resembled a dirt road in the U.S. We passed many occupied villages where the trail served as their only access point. The trail is a significant source of income for these communities, as they open

Terri Bunten Guthrie is an avid hiker and an active volunteer in Cobb County. She is a proud Marietta resident who recently brought community banking back to the Marietta Square with Access Cobb.

From left, guide Henry Soria, Terri and Jim Guthrie and Jay and Amy Scott at the official start of the Inca trail.

their homes, land and facilities to hikers. For a mere 1 sol (about 25 cents), you could use an actual flushing toilet — a secret gem we hadn’t read about beforehand, and one that would have saved a lot of anxiety! There were also several places to buy candy, Gatorade and even ice cream, though ice cream or candy weren’t particularly appealing at that elevation. But those flushing toilets? Worth every sol.

About three hours into our first day, we encountered the first significant archaeological ruin: Patallacta (translated as “City in High”). It comprised terraces, buildings and agricultural areas. Located along the Urubamba River (the river to Machu Picchu) and the Inca Trail, it’s believed to have been an administrative center for managing resource collection and distribution during the reign of the Inca Emperor Pachacuti from 1431-1471 —

perhaps the first Amazon distribution center?

Soon after viewing Patallacta, we stopped for lunch, our first meal on the trail, which was quite a shock. We were greeted with freshly made juice and warm bowls of water and soap for washing hands and faces. We were escorted to a cloth-covered table with precisely folded napkins and real plates and utensils. We were served fresh salads of corn, avocado, greens, fried fish caught in the stream and purchased by our chef, potatoes, broccoli and ancient Peruvian grains. It was all presented as if we were in a five-star restaurant, not on a trail in the Andes Mountains of South America.

By the end of the first day, we had trekked seven miles, mostly what our guide called “Inca flats,” though my watch recorded an 1,806-foot climb. Our first camp, Wayllabamba (elevation 9,757 feet), featured

two shower/toilet buildings and 19 campsites, all filled with hikers, porters, guides and chefs, as the trail permits 500 people to start on the trail each day. We arrived around 4:30 p.m. to find our tents set up, duffels unpacked and sleeping bags laid out. Evening tea was at 5:30 p.m., followed by another gourmet dinner of locally sourced food, prepared so elegantly we debated whether to eat it or just photograph it. By 7 p.m., we were ready for bed, anxious to tackle the true “Gringo Killer” hike the next day: over Dead Woman’s Pass.

Day 2: Conquering Dead Woman’s Pass

Long before we set foot in Peru, we knew the second day of the Inca Trail would be brutal: a 4,000-foot elevation climb in four miles to Dead Woman’s Pass. However, I couldn’t have predicted just how difficult it

View of Machu Picchu you only get from the Sun Gate.

would be for me. In the first five months of the year, I had completed 24 hikes, covering 150 miles and climbing over 33,000 feet, with 5,000 of those feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. Yet, nothing prepared me for what the elevation did to my body.

The porters woke us at 5:30 a.m. with cups of coca tea. Breakfast was another culinary masterpiece you’d expect on a cruise ship. Unfortunately, I couldn’t eat anything. Yesterday’s trek and the thin Andes air had taken their toll. I struggled with acclimatization and energy conversion, finding myself needing to rest after just one or two steps.

Despite my exhaustion, I knew I had to keep moving. I found strength in accepting help from others on the trail, including our hiking buddies, Jay and Amy Scott and my incredibly supportive husband, Jim Guthrie, who at one point was leading me along until the trail became too steep.

By day two, the trail was no longer a dirt road but a stone-paved pathway laid some 580 years ago. During Inca times, they didn’t

have the wheel or use draft animals, so the trail (part of their 40,000 kilometer road network) was traversed on foot, with royalty being carried. Thus, the trail is roughly the width of two people, and the stones, while still very secure, were laid like steps rather than flat.

As such, it felt less like a hike and more like climbing the Empire State Building four times. But the views were magnificent. Another perfectly blue sky as we climbed through terrain that transformed from lush cloud forests to alpine meadows and then rugged mountain peaks.

At mile three, we stopped for a long lunch, treated to two different vegetable stir-fries, fresh tomatoes, rice, fried plantains and a special ginger soup to help with my nausea. After lunch, we had our shirt ceremony, where the porters introduced themselves. With Henry as our translator, we learned they ranged in age from 19 to 47, many having been porters for years, doing three treks every two weeks with only one or two days off between trips.

Why did we get our “I hiked the Inca Trail” shirts before completing the hike? Perhaps to keep me motivated, as the worst mile was yet to come. Of the 500 hikers who start each day, 10 to 15% turn back before Dead Woman’s Pass.

The last mile up is the “Gringo Killer” (the previous day’s climb was the “miniGringo Killer”). The views were magnificent — you could see all the way down to where we started that morning. At this point, I could no longer look up toward where I was heading. I had to keep my head down and focus on one step at a time. This approach, coupled with resting when needed, allowed me to conquer Dead Woman’s Pass. When I finally reached the top, it was extremely emotional. I had worked so hard, even suffered, to get there, and never in a million years thought it would be so difficult.

After many pictures and plenty of rest, we started down the other side. On a normal hike, going downhill feels refreshing. However, the steepness of the descent (2,000 feet in three miles) and the unevenness of the stones made it significantly more challenging. The trail was so well-defined you could see our destination camp, but the distance was quite deceiving. For many, the descent can be more difficult than the ascent, but thankfully, I didn’t require the same level of energy. Gravity became my friend. We remained above the clouds for much of the trek and had quite a celebration when we finally reached camp at 5 p.m.

Although this camp was at the highest elevation (11,798 feet), it wasn’t the coldest night. It’s in a unique area where two microclimates converge: the transition between humid jungle and high-altitude forest. Needless to say, we all went straight to bed after our afternoon tea and gourmet dinner, knowing tomorrow would be our longest hike, reaching almost 14,000 feet again and covering nine miles.

Jim and Terri Guthrie and Jay and Amy Scott pose for a photo on a portion of the Inca Trail that cut into the side of a mountain.

Welcoming committee at Phuyupatamarca greets hikers for a lunch stop.

View on Day 3 looking back to Dead Woman’s Pass.

Day 3: Longest Day, Stunning Views

May 29, our third day, was destined to be our longest, covering nine miles, traversing two passes and navigating the steepest ascent and descent yet. It began at 4:30 a.m. with our porter delivering steaming hot cups of coca tea. Coca tea tastes slightly more bitter and earthy than green tea, but its benefits, like increasing oxygen absorption (which helps with altitude sickness), made it worthwhile. Each morning, we had 30 minutes to dress and pack our bags, needing to be at the breakfast table by 5 a.m. Breakfast was more leisurely, allowing our porters to pack up our tents while we dined.

Back on the trail by 6 a.m., I felt much stronger than the day before. The climb was just as steep but not as long or far. Within the first hour, we reached our first ruin of the day, Runkurakay. It likely served for control and surveillance, offering a perfect spot to look back at Dead Woman’s Pass from Day 2 and understand its name. Indeed, the mountain resembles a sleeping woman’s face. Thirty

minutes past the ruins, we reached our first pass of the day. At 13,123 feet, the views in both directions were spectacular: mountains stretching for miles in the distance, yet all above the clouds.

From there, we began a steep descent, over 1,300 feet in less than a mile, to one of the best-preserved Inca ruins on the trail, Sayaqmarca, or “inaccessible town” (and it certainly was). It’s situated on a high ridge overlooking the surrounding mountains. During the Inca reign, this strategically located monument was thought to be an administrative control center for access to Machu Picchu — in other words, the gatekeepers.

As we continued toward our final pass, the trail became more defined, in some places built up like a wall on the mountain’s edge, designed to withstand earthquakes (which it did). The vegetation began to change; trees were covered with moss, and bamboo and ferns were everywhere. Although the humidity never compared to what we’re used to in the South, there was definitely more of it. In fact, it was the first time it felt “hot” along the trail, even

though temperatures remained in the 70s.

When we made it over the third pass, llamas welcomed us to our lunch site above the Phuyupatamarca ruins. Of all

the views thus far, this was the most spectacular. The Andes Mountains are as rugged as any range I’ve seen, with jagged, steep peaks covered in lush green forests. Once we left the Phuyupatamarca ruins, the trail became a series of steep stairs, some cut directly into the rock, and at times the trail went under and through the mountain itself. Many of the steps were as steep as two or three traditional stairs, and by then, our thighs and

Final Inca ruin on Day 3.

View below Intipata on Day 3.

knees were letting us know they had had enough.

We made it into our last ruin of the day as the sun began to set over the Urubamba Valley (the river running below Machu Picchu). Intipata is one of the most striking archaeological sites, notable for its immense set of agricultural terraces literally located on the side of a mountain. It’s where much of the food for Machu Picchu’s inhabitants was grown.

We couldn’t have been more pleased to see our camp come into view that day. In the end, we were on the trail for 12 hours, hiking nine miles, climbing 1,800 feet, but descending 4,331 feet (and we felt every one of them).

That night, after another

spectacular dinner, they surprised me with a birthday cake for dessert. It was not only a complete surprise but also a total mystery, as they had just found out it was my birthday the day before and only had a propane tank for cooking. It would have been delicious at any time, but after the day we had, it was spectacular.

Before turning in for bed that night, we had the opportunity to thank each of the porters and the cook for their hard work. They are required to be up at 3 a.m. to break down our camp and get down the trail to catch the 6 a.m. train to Ollantaytambo, only to start all over again.

It truly is extraordinary how hard they worked and with such

a positive attitude. No matter what language you speak, a smile is a universal language — and they spoke it well. They would cheer us as we arrived in camp or as they passed us on the trails. They were by far the most unexpected and notable parts of hiking the Inca Trail.

Day 4: Machu Picchu at Last

Since our final day started so early, we were given a brown bag breakfast to eat on the trail. On this last day, only our guide Henry was with us. We spent the first hour letting the crowd ahead of us go, as we weren’t in a rush to reach Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for sunrise. Even so, we started in the dark and witnessed the sunrise over Machu Picchu Mountain.

As the sun rose, the tropical rainforest came alive with birds, frogs and insects singing a welcome. The vegetation reminded me of something out of a “Jurassic Park” movie, with huge leaves, ferns the size of

small SUVs and orchids growing along the trail like honeysuckle in the South.

Our final climb was short but nicknamed “monkey steps,” because it was so steep we had to use our hands. But once there, we had an amazing vantage point (and another crystal-clear day), allowing us to see our lunch stop from the day before and just how far we had traveled. Nine minutes later, at 7:31 a.m., we caught our very first glimpse of Machu Picchu. To say it was emotional is an understatement. In fact, I tear up a little every time I think about that step across the threshold to see Machu Picchu for the first time. Yes, the view is magnificent, but the emotion comes from a year of planning, six months of training and overcoming my challenges. That is a feeling you cannot fully explain, but if you have felt it, you understand it.

Along the Inca Trail past the Sun Gate, we officially crossed into Machu Picchu, where only the royals were allowed to enter,

From left, Jay Scott, Jim Guthrie, Amy Scott and Terri Bunten Guthrie have lunch, prepared by the chef and two porters.

View of the Andes Mountains from the final pass.

and all their entourage would have had to turn back. Resident llamas welcomed us along the way, and the entire time we absorbed the magnificence of Machu Picchu itself, perched 1,300 feet above the river valley yet completely encircled by the Andes Mountains.

As Inca Trail hikers, we were allowed to enter with our hiking poles and backpacks to take the quintessential Machu Picchu photo with our “we survived the Inca Trail” shirts. We walked out of the citadel, checked our bags and poles, and re-entered with our ticket and passport for a two-hour tour. Even if you never hike the Inca Trail, I hope you will visit Machu Picchu. Not just because it’s one of the seven modern wonders of the world, but because it is fascinating as a feat constructed nearly 600 years ago by a people who did not have the wheel, draft animals or even a written language. Yet they built a city and 40,000 kilometers of roads (trails to us) that have withstood earthquakes, invasions and even modern technology. Quechuan, the official language of the

Inca, is still spoken, and the people of Peru love to share their culture with others. So, no matter how you choose to see it, do.

The Journey Home

So, how did we get home? The Inca Trail is one-way, so once we completed our visit to Machu Picchu, we rode a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. This ride is not for the faint of heart, with hairpin turns on the edge of the mountain.

We then boarded a train back to the beginning: Ollantaytambo. On the train, we followed the Urubamba River along the valley and could see where we started the Inca Trail four days earlier, reminiscing about how far we had come, literally and figuratively. Once in Ollantaytambo, our company drove us to our hotel. We were fortunate that our guide stayed with us the entire way; no matter how travel-savvy you may be, it’s always nice to have someone who speaks the language and knows you.

So, would I do it again? You bet I would!

TOP: View of Patallacta Ruin from the Inca Trail.

BOTTOM: Jay and Amy Scott and Jim and Terri Guthrie pose behind a backdrop of breathtaking views.

Big changes are coming! Transformation is on the Horizon

The Cobb Galleria Centre is undergoing a major expansion and renovation, elevating the experience for tradeshows, meetings, and special events. The transformation project breaks ground this fall and is slated for completion in early 2027.

Get ready for a reimagined and immersive event space right in the heart of Cobb.

Water Therapy

These three destinations get you up close and personal with rivers and oceans

By LISA MOWRY

Columbus, Georgia

WHY TO GO: The state’s second-largest city also has thrilling recreational opportunities.

When Columbus, Georgia began its Chattahoochee River restoration project and added the whitewater experience more than 10 years ago, the city gained a new identity. Today, it’s a recreation destination as well as a city thriving with museums, downtown condos, food halls and boutique hotels. The 15-mile RiverWalk shows off the Chattahoochee, and along the way, kayakers, zip-liners, bikers and families strolling together create a whole new vibe. As a weekend getaway, it’s an easy two-hour drive from metro Atlanta.

I checked in to City Mills, a boutique hotel right on the river, with views and history you can’t beat. As the name indicates, it’s a former mill from the 1800s, and inside and out the owners have thoughtfully included brick walls, steel beams and architectural details that have been there forever. From the hotel, you can hop on the RiverWalk to walk downtown. Along the way, you’ll see murals, lush foliage and the thriving area around the rapids, named one of the best manmade adventure thrills in the world by USA Today.

To experience the whitewater course, check in to Whitewater Express right in the heart of activities (including a children’s splash pad, and the popular

photo op, Kadie the Cow sculpture). They can set you up for a guided rafting tour, or rent kayaks and bicycles for exploring, with plenty of adventure clothes and equipment to pick up. Some whitewater rafting trips are geared to families, but others are more challenging for thrill-seekers. They also operate the popular zip-line course that starts from 12 stories high and lands across the Chattahoochee into Phenix City, Alabama. These adventures start from around $45 a person. Afterwards, check out one of the acclaimed places to eat in town: EPIC (one of only two Four-Diamond Award restaurants outside Atlanta), Mortens, or for a casual option, Banks Food Hall.

Columbus is also home to one of the Southeast’s largest museums, the Columbus Museum, filled with an impressive American Art collection and southeastern history, plus the Bradley Olmsted Garden out back. As a more eclectic art experience, head 30 miles southeast of the city to rural Buena Vista and find Pasaquan, a renowned folk-art experience spread over seven acres. This colorful, mystical place is the vision of Eddie Owens Martin, who changed his name to St. EOM and created this homage to other cultures from visions he had during a high fever. It’s not like anything else you’ve seen, and only open on weekends, but worth a stop.

TOP: Known as the world’s largest urban whitewater run (also, the warmest), Columbus draws kayakers and rafters to its rapids on the Chattahoochee River. Credit: Columbus GA CVB.

BOTTOM LEFT: The Blue Heron zip-line crosses the Chattahoochee River from Columbus to Alabama at an exhilarating 40 miles per hour. Credit: Columbus GA CVB.

BOTTOM MIDDLE: Colorful kayaks await adventurists at Whitewater Express in downtown Columbus, with its boat and bicycle rentals, rafting excursions and more. Credit: Lisa Mowry.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The folk-art compound known as Pasaquan is a must-see for anyone going to Columbus. Credit: Lisa Mowry

Puerto Rico

WHY TO GO: All the ease of traveling to a U.S. state but with the vibrant culture and beaches of the Caribbean.

In less than four hours, a flight from Atlanta to San Juan, Puerto Rico delivers all the sun and fun you expect from a tropical island, but also so much more.

Some of the good news: American citizens don’t need a passport (just an official ID), all currency is in dollars, U.S. phone plans work without special charges and everyone speaks English — but you also get the multi-cultural languages and flavor with this abundant population.

A trip to Puerto Rico should have at least two components: time to enjoy some of the 300 miles of coastline, the El Yunque Rain Forest (the only rain forest in the U.S. Forest System) and the unique experience of its bioluminescent bays, but embrace some city time, as well. Most people begin their journey in San Juan, both the historic Old San Juan and its nearby beach area, the Condado district. My stay at Casa Sol Bed & Breakfast allowed me to be in the middle of the historic district in a restored 18th-

century Spanish colonial home. Guavafilled French toast and strong local coffee served in the courtyard each morning was as enjoyable as hearing about the owners’ renovation journey. As a beachfront option, La Concha Resort Autograph Collection on Condado Beach has mid-century architectural details and three lavish pools to enjoy.

The second largest city, Ponce, is often referred to as the “pearl of the south,” with its Spanish colonial-style buildings, the strollable Plaza Las Delicias full of architectural treasures and a memorable fountain. The 19th-century Ponce Plaza Hotel is a treat for an overnight stay, with its views overlooking the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Afterwards, explore the west coast of Puerto Rico, known for its surfing, beaches and coastal cuisine. The beach town of Isabela has the high-end Royal Isabela resort, with its cliffside golf course, private casitas for guests and on-site hiking through the gorgeous landscape. Since Puerto Rico is about the size of Connecticut, you can think of it as our 51st state with 100 miles to discover and so much to eat, drink and take in.

The Eclipse Restaurant, an al fresco experience in Isabela on the west coast. Photo: Lisa Mowry

TOP RIGHT: Levant, this glamorous mid-century restaurant in La Concha resort, also has acclaimed chef Michael White now bringing his Mediterranean menu to the special setting. Designed in 1958 to resemble a seashell, and floating on water, Levant is a sophisticated experience that taps into history. Photo: Levant restaurant

MIDDLE RIGHT: Any trip to Old San Juan — known for its vivid Spanish architecture and famous forts — should include a walking tour given by a local. The architecture tour I took from PRHBDS (Puerto Rico Historic Buildings Drawings Society) took us down cobblestone streets to find out the story behind the fascinating buildings there, including this vibrant, historic hotel. Photo: Lisa Mowry

BOTTOM RIGHT: As another testament to Puerto Rico’s restaurant scene, Panorama 180, perched high in the southern Ponce area of the island, has amazing vistas of this colonial-style city, including the famed Castillo Serrales. Photo: Lisa Mowry

BOTTOM LEFT: Picture-perfect beaches in the Isabela area of Puerto Rico deliver the tropical vibe that everybody wants from a Caribbean island. This sandy spot is also home to

Hilton Head, South Carolina

WHY TO GO: In an ever-changing world, the familiar charms of this Lowcountry island never go out of style.

Several of my favorite things to do easily happen at Hilton Head. Walking on the beach is the best way to clear your head, and on this island, you’ll find 12 miles of wide beaches and firmly packed sand. In fact, you can ride a bike on the sand here, which brings up another happy thing: hopping on a bike to explore. Back when Hilton Head was developed decades ago, the planners thoughtfully added 60 miles of bike and walking paths — and a lot of them are shaded beneath lush trees.

For a two-night getaway, we settled into Palmetto Dunes, one of the neighborhoods within Hilton Head. Families and large groups might enjoy renting a house (and there are lots of them), but we enjoy a full-service resort right on the beach. The newly rebranded Hilton Beachfront Resort and Spa (formerly the Marriott Resort) is putting their renovation stamp on this

TOP: Beachside cabanas for rent at Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa are a splurge that includes complimentary fruit trays and water, along with the opportunity to order lunch in the cozy setting.

Courtesy: Lisa Mowry

BOTTOM: The iconic red-and-white lighthouse in Sea Pines/Hilton Head is a popular spot to visit. Climb the 100-plus stairs to the top for panoramic views of its Lowcountry setting. Courtesy: Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa

spacious hotel, with its 10 stories overlooking the pool and beach. It’s the kind of home base where you can hang out in a cabana all day (for an extra fee) or grab a chair at the pool, rent bikes or kayaks, and easily explore the island. As a treat, we checked out the Spa Soleil, with its magical massages and facials, and a relaxing wait room complete with a waterfall.

One night we joined others on the beach to watch the sunset, which is another favorite activity of mine. On night two, we headed to the west side of the island to eat outside at Skull Creek Boathouse, an ideal place to wander the

dock (since there usually is a wait time) and then watch the sun set over the water with some seafood. Being active is a way of life there, as well. Golf has always added to Hilton Head’s popularity, with its 26 courses designed by names such as Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones Sr. The yearly RBC Heritage PGA tournament draws golf fans in April for this prestigious event at Harbour Town Golf Links. Tennis and pickleball rule the island, as well, with hundreds of courts, tournaments and lessons to be had. Best of all, it’s the sort of island where you can enjoy doing less and still have a blast.

HILTONHEADISLAND.ORG

TOP: Dinners at Skull Creek Boathouse include a spectacular sunset. Courtesy: Lisa Mowry

BOTTOM: The wide beach at Hilton Beachfront Resort and Spa — is ideal for a backdrop to morning yoga, as well as walking and bike-riding in the heart of Palmetto Dunes in Hilton Head. Courtesy: Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa

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Mike Cobb is the author of “Dead Reckoning,” “The Devil You Knew,” and its sequel, “You Will Know Me by My Deeds.” A native of Atlanta, Cobb lived in Vinings for over 30 years and his consulting practice was headquartered in Marietta. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, cooking, boating and spending time with family and friends. Visit Mike Cobb online at: www.mikecobbwriter.com.

CL: How did the idea for “Muzzle the Black Dog” come about?

MC: The initial inspiration for the book came from a poem by Israeli poet and author Yehuda Amichai titled “Of Three Or Four In The Room.” The poem explores the themes of isolation and detachment.

For fifty years, I carried that poem in my head, knowing that one day I would do something with it. Its essence became mine but modified somewhat from the original to reflect my own understanding of its weight. In the front matter of the book are the following lines: Of three or four in the room, one is always looking out the window. And one is outside looking in.

(from Yehuda Amichai, with liberties taken)

The imagery of standing at a window suggests a separation between the observer and the world outside. Isolation and detachment haunt the book’s protagonist Jack Pate. The other inspiration for the book was the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park Bombing in Atlanta and the relationship between Eric Rudolph and his brother Daniel. I love weaving compelling fictional stories in and around true events and, in the process, tapping into aspects of the human condition that are common to both.

That, fundamentally, is what this book is about.

CL: What separates this book from other pieces you’ve written? What connects it?

MC: Muzzle the Black Dog, a novella, is much shorter than my three prior published works.

Also, unlike my other works, it is a psychological thriller. Elements of the book dwell in that subtle, sometimes indistinct space between reality and what goes on in Jack Pate’s mind.

This book is connected to my prior works in several ways. I write historical crime fiction. My books combine page-turning character-driven stories with true crime events. All my books are situated, in whole or in part, in Atlanta and its environs.

MIKE COBB

Also, a compelling theme of redemption runs through my work. My characters, both fictional and historical, mean everything to me. They guide me throughout my writing and, while fidelity to historical facts and plotlines must be respected, they help me shape the arc of each story.

CL: What can readers expect from your book?

MC: Four words capture the essence of what readers can expect from Muzzle the Black Dog: illumination, insight, thrill and longing.

They will learn new things about historical events. One of my objectives as a writer is not just to entertain, but to inform and enlighten. That’s why I write historical fiction. They will gain new insights about isolation, self-discovery and redemption. My books tap into the human condition and touch on issues that readers will hopefully find both challenging and inspiring. They will derive thrill and enjoyment from a page-turning crime story. I love it when a reader of one of my books says they couldn’t put the book down. That brings me great joy.

And they will finish the book yearning to know more. I don’t like wrapping everything up in a neat bow at the end. I like leaving the reader with new questions and a compelling desire for more. That’s my strong preference when I write and when I read the works of others.

CL: How does inspiration strike you?

MC: I am always fascinated by what inspires writers. For me, it’s things that happen in real life, whether in the present or in years past. Curiosity and observation are key. I guess I get that honestly, having spent much of my professional career as a scientist.

I may happen to see something in my daily comings and goings that piques my curiosity, or I may read an archived newspaper article from the annals of history. Something observational strikes my fancy and inspires me to put pen to paper. My inspiration always comes from external observation.

CL: Do you have any rituals/best practices for writing?

MC: Two rituals are critical to my writing: deep research and deep immersion. Because I write historical fiction, and because fidelity to historical facts and plotlines is so important to me, I spend countless hours doing research for my books. This includes scouring newspapers and other contemporaneous accounts, reading books and articles, deep library research (relying especially on the wonderful librarians at the Kenan Research facility at the Atlanta History Center), deep Internet research, visiting landmarks, leaning heavily on subject matter experts, and conducting interviews.

To help me “live in the moment” in my characters’ skin, I spend a lot of time immersed in local venues, walking the streets they would have walked, visiting the haunts they would have frequented, even if things have long since changed. This deep immersion helps reinforce the keen sense of time and place that is critical to my craft.

For example, part of my first book occurs at the Old Pavilion in Vinings. I spent quiet time at the pavilion to help center me. That was one of my easiest immersion experiences since I was a Vinings resident for thirty years.

CL: How has your environment influenced your work?

MC: I am a child of the South. I grew up in Atlanta, living over the years in Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb Counties. This is my home, and it’s the place I feel most comfortable writing about. It’s not a matter of choosing the path of least resistance.

It’s not that at all. This is where my heart is and where my inspiration comes from.

Over the years since childhood, I have lived briefly in other places. But I always come back. And if I were ever to leave again, it wouldn’t be for long. So, in so far as overall environment is concerned, the South and this city in particular mean everything to me.

As for my more immediate, day-to-day environment, while I prefer to write in my chosen writing spaces, I can write pretty much anywhere. At a local coffee shop, on a park bench, even riding in a car. It doesn’t matter. And background noise doesn’t bother me. When I immerse myself in my characters and my writing, where I am and what is going on around me isn’t a factor.

CL: What’s your favorite part about writing? Your least favorite?

MC: I delight in deep research, immersion in time and place, communing with my characters, and weaving a great story. I love letting my characters guide me each step of the way.

As for my least favorite parts, I can tolerate the revising/restructuring and editing processes, but I get bored when it comes to finalizing everything and doing final scrubs prior to publishing. I also do not like the marketing and publicity aspects of the job.

CL: What makes your work stand out from other authors in the same genre?

MC: There are so many wonderful authors in the same genre, and I don’t want to disparage their work by drawing contrasts. Therefore, without being too judgmental, I will address three things that I believe distinguish my work.

The first has to do with characterdriven versus plot-driven fiction. Many of the books in my genre, while quite good, follow a plot-centric formula. They may be very engaging, with twist, turns, and red herrings, but the plot drives the characters, not the other way around. The characters in my books are paramount. They speak to me. They guide me. They drive the plot of each of my books in a direction that sometimes surprises me. They become eminently real to me and to my

CHAPTER ONE Outlander

He didn’t show up at my door that night out of thin air. Well I guess, technically, he did. But somebody, or something, had to have sent him. Otherwise, how would he have ended up eleven miles—eleven point three to be exact—from anything resembling civilization?

I was awakened from a light doze by dogs barking in the distance. Free rangers. At first, I thought nothing of it. Probably cornered a bobcat. Maybe a fox. Or baying at a barn owl snaring its quarry. It wasn’t until I heard heavy footsteps that I knew I had a drop-in. But I hardly ever have dropins. It was almost midnight.

I peered from around the muslin curtain, my passing facsimile of Desert Storm camouflage. A stranger stood at the door, shifting his weight from foot to foot. He saw me. We locked eyes. The low-lying fog that had settled in a couple hours earlier gave him

readers. I never plot out a book before writing it. I fear that, in doing so, I would betray the desires of my characters. My books deal as much with the human condition as they do with crime. In that sense there is a literary fiction quality to them that, I believe, distinguishes them from most works in the genre. Lastly, they are rich in deep historical detail with a relentless obsession with getting the facts right. At the same time, I am careful not to let historical accuracy compromise the telling of a compelling story.

a wraithlike mien. I could make out enough to tell he had dark scraggly hair. Not too long but cutting a mophead silhouette against the light from the waxing moon. Disheveled beard, greying around the temples and chin. I could have sworn I was witnessing an older Eric Rudolph in the flesh. But they caught him, right? That was seven months ago. Time flies. His brother, maybe? No, it couldn’t be. The man at my door had two hands—I know, because he held a canvas sack in one and a gnarly walking stick in the other—and I had read in the Cherokee Scout that Rudolph’s brother had cut off his left hand with a radial arm saw. But wait… didn’t the article say the doctors reattached it? Could it be?

“What do you want?” I yelled through the locked door.

“I’m here to help you.”

“Help me? I don’t need help. Okay?”

“Well, perhaps you can help me, then.”

“With what?”

“Let me in, please.”

“I don’t know you.”

“You don’t think you know me. But you do.”

“How? From where?”

“You’re Jack, right? Jack Pate.”

LOCAL SCRIBES

In addition to our author Q&A, be sure to check out new releases written by authors in and around Cobb County.

Smyrna resident Raymond Williams has published debut novel “Iceberg,” a procedural thriller layered with ice, suspense and secrets.

Marietta resident Gerald Gillis has released his fifth book “Finding His Own Way, A Marine Novel” about a young Marine who sees action in some of the bloodiest Pacific campaigns in World War II.

Marietta resident Devon Gunn has published the beginning of literary series “Sam Goes,” one of the first graphic short book collections designed specifically for adults living with dementia.

Local authors can send book release announcements to Cobb Life Editor Skyler Heath, sheath@mdjonline.com

From dessert parlors and pizza joints to burgers galore, Cobb County has welcomed several new food concepts to its bustling dining scene. Check out the latest local restaurant news and get to eatin’!

Popular sports bar Murph’s closed in August to make way for major renovations to the Cobb Galleria Centre. Atlanta Braves legend Dale Murphy opened Murph’s with his wife, Nancy Murphy, in 2017. In October, the owner and operator of the Galleria announced plans for a major renovation and expansion of the convention center’s facilities. The project — scheduled to break ground this fall and be completed in early 2027 — includes the demolition of the Galleria Specialty Shops, where the sports bar and American grill has sat for nearly eight years. It is unclear whether or not it will reopen.

Kennesaw-based Lazy Guy Distillery is moving to a bigger location three minutes down the road from its flagship store off Main Street. The new 7,000-square-foot space, currently under construction, will feature a state-of-the-art tasting room, expanded bar and fullservice kitchen. It’s slated to open in late 2026 or early 2027, owner Mark Allen said.

7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant has opened at the Bridger Properties development on Church Street in downtown Marietta, offering a new traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The restaurant makes its tortillas fresh, in-house daily. Popular dishes include the taquitos Mexicanos, street tacos and ensalada Mexicana.

Cinnabon Swirl Shop opened its first Georgia location in Kennesaw on Cobb Parkway in June. The dessert concept merges Cinnabon’s classic cinnamon roll menu options with Carvel’s soft serve ice cream.

COMPILED BY SKYLER HEATH

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is now open in Marietta in the Bridger Properties’ Church Street development. The Ohio-based artisan ice cream brand is known for its unique flavors like Wildberry Lavender, Banana Cream Pudding, Gooey Butter Cake and Brambleberry Crisp.

Popular shake and burger chain Shake Shack opened a new location at The Battery as the first Cobb County store and eighth in Georgia. The Battery will be Shake Shack’s first U.S. location to feature a company-operated bar, fit with a window for beer and cocktails and a double side bar with exterior seats. The space also features an outdoor patio, interior dining room and a mini arcade.

Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux unveiled its 79th restaurant at The Battery Atlanta in June. The new location occupies the former space of Irish pub Mac McGee, next to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on Battery Avenue. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sports bar staples, including burgers and chicken wings, and Cajun-inspired dishes.

TOP: Jeni’s ambassador Ava Goff holds up a waffle cone bowl with scoops of Gooey Butter Cake, Brambleberry Crisp, Green Mint Chip and Strawberry Buttermilk ice cream at the new Church Street location in Marietta.

TOP LEFT: Lazy Guy Distillery owner Mark Allen explores his alcohol manufacturing equipment in the barn located at the back of his property.

TOP RIGHT: Cinnabon Swirls’ Bonini, an ice cream sandwich layered with two halves of a classic Cinnabon cinnamon rolls.

BOTTOM LEFT: From left, 7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant manager Antonio Morales, owner Tracy Garcia and general manager Luis Ortiz.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Atlanta Braves mascot Blooper poses in front of The Battery’s new Shake Shack location.

BOTTOM: Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux’s chicken wings (bottom left), strawberry lemon drop martini (back left) and hickory burger with waffle fries.

COMPILED BY SKYLER HEATH

Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza opened on Barrett Creek Plaza by Town Center mall in July.

Pronounced “Apizza,” according to their website, the Floridabased chain offers traditional New Havenstyle pizza, a take on classic Neapolitan style.

Vietnamese restaurant Pho Hoa opened in east Cobb on Johnson Ferry Road. There are six types of pho offered with a

variety of proteins, including Vietnamese beef, hot and sour seafood and a combination of steak, flank, tendon and tripe. The menu also caters to vegetarians with several meatless options.

Tin Drum Asian Kitchen opened its doors in Kennesaw at 1155 Barrett Parkway, Suite 108. It is the second Tin Drum location to open in Cobb after the Akers Mill Square spot in Cumberland. The restaurant’s menu features a

wide variety of Asian dishes from countries and regions across the continent including China, Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

French Bakery franchise Paris Baugette unveiled a new location in Kennesaw on Barrett Parkway, offering a wide array of French pastries, cakes, breads, coffee and other goods.

TOP LEFT: Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza opened their fifth store in Town Center at Barrett Creek Plaza. It is the first store located outside Florida for the company.

BOTTOM LEFT: Leo Zhen stands proudly in front of his new restaurant Pho Hoa on Saturday, in east Cobb.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Tin Drum Asian Kitchen’s sesame chicken rice bowl, loaded with sweet and savory chicken bites and topped with broccoli, toasted sesame seeds and bell pepper on a bed of rice.

TOP RIGHT: Paris Baguette offers an array of pastries and baked goods in Kennesaw.

fall events September

Taste of Smyrna

Saturday, Sept. 6, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Village Green, 300 Village Green Circle SE

Cost: Varies

More information: vinings.com/taste-of-smyrna

The annual Taste of Smyrna will take place at the Village Green, featuring samples from over 25 different Smyrna restaurants. While admission is free, prices for food start at $1 and go up to $10 per item. Restaurants will be competing in a competition of over five different categories: best entree, dessert, food presentation, decorated tent and appetizer. Outside of food, the festival will also have live music, entertainment and activities for kids to enjoy.

Mother-Son Camp Out

Saturday, Sept. 13 - 14

Proctor Landing Park, 5260 Proctor Landing Road, Acworth

Cost: Varies

More information: acworth-ga.gov/event/ mother-son-campout-2/

The Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department is hosting its annual Mother-Son Campout. Open to moms and their sons 13 and under, campers will get to learn camping etiquette, campfire building and other outside activities. Dinner and breakfast will be provided, but any additional snacks and their camping equipment are up to the pair.

Check-in will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13 and check out will be at 10 a.m. the following day. Admission prices for mother and son duos are $40 for Acworth residents, $50 for non-residents, $10 per additional son and $2 to $10 for equipment rental.

Concert on the Green: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Saturday, Sept. 20, 6 to 10 p.m.

North Georgia State Fair, presented by Superior Plumbing

Sept. 18 - 28

Jim R Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road in Marietta

Cost: Varies

More information: northgeorgiastatefair.com

Logan Farm Park, 405 Cherokee St, Acworth Cost: Free admission

More information: acworthparksandrec.org

The September installment of Acworth’s Concert on the Green series will celebrate Hispanic cultures in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. The family-friendly event will feature Hispanic food vendors, music and dance groups from around the community. Gates will open at 5 p.m. Concert admission is free.

Harvest Hustle 5k

Downtown Kennesaw Saturday, Sept. 27, 8 a.m.

Cost: Varies

More information: kennesaw-ga.gov/ kennesawgrandprix/

Usher in the fall season with the North Georgia State Fair, presented by Superior Plumbing. As the largest fair in metro Atlanta, the event features live music, a variety of free attractions, world-class ground acts from around the globe, two petting barns featuring barnyard and exotic animals, flower shows, artwork of all kinds, local entertainment and delicious fair foods, including traditional fare and unexpected culinary delights.

The fair is open Monday through Thursday from 4 to 11 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. to midnight. Saturday the 20 will be open from 10 a.m. to midnight, while Saturday the 27 will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight. Sunday times are from 12:30 to 10 p.m.

The Kennesaw Grand Prix Series will host its Harvest Hustle 5K Saturday, Sept. 27, at 8 a.m. in downtown Kennesaw. The course is mostly asphalt and is flat and fast. The race begins at Kennesaw First Baptist Church, heads north on Main Street, meanders through Swift-Cantrell Park and finishes in historic downtown Kennesaw. Runners will cross the finish line into a post-race party for the awards ceremony and celebration. Registration is $35 to participate in the 5K. There is also a tot trot ($5) and a 1-mile fun run ($20).

fall events

October

Chalktoberfest

Saturday, Oct. 11 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 12, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Downtown Marietta

Cost: Free admission

More information: chalktoberfest.com

Enjoy beer, wine and chalk art at Marietta’s annual Chalktoberfest. This family-friendly event features arts and crafts vendors, live music, food trucks and live chalk art both days. Admission for the chalk festival is free, but beer and wine tasting will require tickets. In advance, the tickets will cost $45, while tickets on the day of will be $50. The Craft Beer festival will begin on Saturday at noon and end at 5 p.m.

Come out and experience the taste of over 120 different craft beers and 25 varieties of wine while walking the painted streets of Historic Downtown Marietta. Chalktoberfest will take place on Atlanta Street and Anderson Street, both of which run around the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art at 30 Atlanta St. in Marietta.

Harvest Fest

Saturday, Oct. 18, 9

a.m. to 5 p.m.

Glover Park, 50 N Park Square NE, Marietta

Cost: Free admission

More information: mariettaga. gov/1258/ HarvestFest

Grab your friends and family and flock to Glover Park for Marietta’s HarvestFest, an annual festival held each October. For families of all sizes, the festival will feature a plethora of events, such as the HarvestFest Arts & Crafts Show, Pie Eating Contest, Touch-ATruck, Scarecrows In The Square, Costume Contest and a Halloween Happenings kids’ festival.

Taste of Acworth

Saturday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Downtown Acworth

Cost: Free admission

More information: acworth. com/taste-of-acworth/

Downtown Acworth is bringing back its annual food festival over 40 restaurant booths and different entertainment opportunities. Admission and parking is free, but each food vendor will have different price ranges for samples, which start at $1 and can go up to $10. Taste of Acworth will run all the way through the Historic District on Main Street downtown.

Cherokee Heights Arts Festival

Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Freyer Dr NE Marietta, GA 30060

Cost: Free admission

More information: cherokeeheightsartsfestival. org/about/

The 17th Annual Cherokee Heights Arts Festival returns to Marietta this fall! The historic event offers residents the opportunity to showcase their talents and passions with over 40 of their neighbors and friends.

Covering a block of Freyer Drive, attendees will have a choice to shop pottery, graphics, photography and more. There will also be food and drink vendors spread throughout to enjoy. In addition to the crafts and food, there will be two music stages at the end of the block that will feature local musical performances throughout the day. Free to all, the art festival highlights local talent while supporting non-profit businesses for this one-day-a-year event.

Crafts & Drafts

Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 26, noon to 5 p.m.

Village Green, 300 Village Green Circle SE, Smyrna

Cost: Free admission

More information: cobbcountyevents.com/craftsdrafts/

Smyrna’s Crafts and Drafts Festival, formerly the fall Jonquil Festival, makes a return featuring cold beer, football on the big screens and 150 arts & crafts booths. In addition, there will be 12 food booths and plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Art Walk Draws Crowds, Drives Sales on Marietta Square

Photography by ANTHONY STALCUP

The first Friday of the month, artists, restaurants and creatives gather on Marietta Square to celebrate and share their love for art, in whatever form that may take.

Donna Krueger, owner of dk Gallery, said the event is one of the busiest nights for most downtown merchants. She pointed to a survey by the Downtown Marietta Development Authority which found of all the events on the Square, Art Walk was the most beneficial for downtown businesses.

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1. Crowds gather to take in the display of dk Gallery at the Marietta Square Art Walk.

David Vaughn and Donna Shiver talk with artist Julie Low standing in front of some of her work at dk Gallery during Marietta Square Art Walk.

Attendees enjoy the art.

dk Gallery owner Donna Krueger and Emily Wolfe stand next to some of the art.

Matthew Dobson stands in front of art created as part of the Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health program at dk Gallery during the Marietta Square Art Walk.

Brenda Sulmonetti Walker and Curtis Walker stand in front her work at dk Gallery during the Marietta Square Art Walk.

The owner of The Loft Gallery Euriel Hemmerly stands in front of some of the work displayed at her gallery during the Marietta Square Art Walk.

Cobb County Sheriff’s

34th annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’

Around 400 people packed the Jim R. Miller Park event center for the Cobb County Sheriff’s 34th annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’ this summer.

The tradition began as a corn boilin’ in the ‘90s under then-Sheriff Bill Hutson, transforming into a shrimp boil in 2022 under the guidance of current Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens.

Where To Find Cobb Life Magazine

Pick up your copy of Cobb Life Magazine at these convenient locations:

MARIETTA

h MARIETTA WELCOME CENTER 4 Depot St NE, Marietta, GA 30060His

h MARIETTA WINE MARKET 18 Powder Springs St SW, Marietta, GA 30064

h SHELL 556 Roswell St NE, Marietta, GA 30060

h MARIETTA DINER 306 Cobb Pkwy S, Marietta, GA 30060

h BERNHARD’S GERMAN BAKERY & DELI 1592 Atlanta Rd SE #110, Marietta, GA 30060

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S 1275 Powers Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30067

h GABRIEL’S RESTAURANT AND BAKERY 800 Whitlock Ave NW #135, Marietta, GA 30064

h WOMENS CENTER KENNESTONE 330 Kennestone Hospital Blvd, Marietta, GA 30060

h WILLIAMS BROTHERS BAR-BQMARIETTA 1425 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S 2100 Roswell Rd STE 2116, Marietta, GA 30062

h HEYWOODS PROVISION COMPANY 2145 Roswell Rd #140, Marietta, GA 30062

h MCCLESKEY-EAST COBB FAMILY YMCA 1055 E Piedmont Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h CACTUS CAR WASH MARIETTA 4216 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h FABRIC & FRINGE WAREHOUSE

h 2440 Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30066

h MARIETTA FISH MARKET 3185 Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30066

h TIM D LEE SENIOR CENTER 3332 SANDY PLAINS RD, MARIETTA, GA 30066

h PARC 999 HOOD RD, MARIETTA

h ACORN HOME & GARDEN

3870 Due West Rd NW, Marietta, GA 30064

h OKINAWA STEAK & SUSHI – MARIETTA 3718 Dallas Hwy, Marietta, GA 30064

h OTTER’S CHICKEN

3625 Dallas Hwy #690, Marietta, GA 30064

h THE WING CAFÉ & TAP HOUSE 2145 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h COBB HARDWARE

380 ROSWELL ST, MARIETTA

h DOUGH IN THE BOX 3184 Austell Rd SW, Marietta, GA 3000

h AQUARAMA

565 Powder Springs St., Marietta, Ga

h HOBOKEN CAFÉ

688 Whitlock Ave, Marietta, Ga

h FOOD DEPOT

250 Windy Hill Rd SE Marietta

h WHOLE FOODS - MERCHANTS WALK 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd #580, Marietta, GA 30068

h MOUNTAIN VIEW REGIONAL LIBRARY

3320 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta, GA 30066

SMYRNA

h THE SMYRNA TEAM @ KELLER WILLIAMS

3350 Atlanta Rd, Smyrna, GA 30080

h ADVENTURE OUTDOORS

2500 S Cobb Dr SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

200 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna, GA

30080

h SMYRNA CITY HALL

2800 King St SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h ATKINS PARK TAVERN

2840 Atlanta Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h THOMPSON BROTHERS BARBEQUE 2445 Cobb Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h VICKERS ACE HARDWARE

881 CONCORD RD, SMYRNA

h Food Depot

3205 South Cobb Dr SE Smyrna

h Smyrna Public Library 100 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

ATLANTA

h JACK’S NEW YORKER DELI 4691 S Atlanta Rd SE #150, Atlanta, GA 30339

POWDER SPRINGS

h CITY OF POWDER SPRINGS 1114 RICHARD D SAILORS PKWY, POWDER SPRINGS, 30127

h POWDER SPRINGS LIBRARY 4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs, GA 30127

KENNESAW

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S 2700 Town Center Dr, Kennesaw, GA 30144

h HONEYSUCKLE BAKERY

2825 S. MAIN STREET, KENNESAW GA, 30144

h CITY OF KENNESAW

2529 J O STEPHENSON AVE, KENNESAW, GA 30144

h Whole Foods

h 1300 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

ACWORTH

h NORTH COBB SENIOR CENTER 3900 S. Main Street, Acworth, GA 30101

h FUSCO’S VIA ROMO I TALIAN TRATTORIA 4815A S Main St, Acworth, GA 30101

h ACWORTH CITY HALL 4415 Senator Russell Avenue, Acworth, GA 30101

h ACWORTH COMMUNITY CENTER 4361 Cherokee St, Acworth, GA 30101

h 1885 GRILL ACWORTH 4438 CHEROKEE ST, ACWORTH, GA 30101

h DADDY’S COUNTRY KITCHEN 3485 Acworth Due West Rd #200, Acworth, GA 30101

h HENRY’S 4835 N. Main St, Acworth, Ga 30101

MABLETON

h FOOD DEPOT

5345 Floyd Rd SW Mableton

AUSTELL

h FOOD DEPOT

1355 EAST WEST CONNECTOR, AUSTELL

1. Cooks and volunteers pose for a photo during the Cobb Sheriff’s annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’.

2. Bill Johnson, state Sen. Michael “Doc” Rhett, former state Sen. Lindsey Tippins, Nathan Tippins and Colin Meaders pose for a photo during the Cobb Sheriff’s annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’.

3. Sharon Owens, wife of Sheriff Craig Owens, quiets the crowd before Sheriff Owens’ speech.

4. Former state Sen. Lindsey Tippins and his son, Nathan Tippins, prepare corn during the Cobb Sheriff’s annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’.

Photography by MEGAN JACKSON

now and then Flashback Fall Festivities

Fall is nearly here, and Cobb County always knows how to celebrate. From hayrides and harvest festivals to haunted houses, these throwback photos capture the timeless joy of autumn in Cobb. Photos courtesy of MDJ archives.

1. From the Oct. 20, 1988, Marietta Daily class at Austell Elementary School on a field Street in Austell.

2. Pictured in the Thursday, Oct. 31, 1996, Marietta Daily Journal was a photograph showing the 1848 House restaurant off South Cobb Drive decked out for Halloween. Restaurant manager Seyed Kashflpour was photographed adjusting some of the play tombstones on display while a spider rested on a 25-foot-tall web.

3. Pictured in the Monday, Oct. 31, 1966, Marietta Daily Journal was a photograph showing Robert Taylor, 14, and his 230-pound prize winning pumpkin with his cat Princess perched on top.

4. From the Oct. 24, 1976, Marietta Daily Journal: “Gus the Gorilla gives a friendly wave from his roving hearse beckoning customers. Underneath all the fur is Davie McCollum who will be working hard at Vampire Valley.” Vampire Valley was an annual haunted house held at the First United Methodist Church in Marietta. Admission was $1.50. Proceeds from the haunt were used for youth and elderly programs and the church’s general mission work.

5. Pictured in the Thursday, Oct. 10, 1996, Marietta Daily Journal was a photograph showing two-year-old C.J. Laettner, son of east Cobb’s Chris and Margaret Ellen Laettner, picking just the right pumpkin for the family’s Halloween decorating plans at Zion Methodist Church’s pumpkin patch on Johnson Ferry Road just north of Roswell Road.