I love travel!
When my youngest child abandoned me, I mean, started college, I took refuge in travel. He's now a college graduate, 20-weeks deep studying to become a Dekalb County Firefighter, and I continue to escape whenever possible.
Here's my list of favorite destinations, highly recommended for stunning locations, impeccable service, a laundry list of amenities and overall memorability.
1. Four Seasons Bora Bora - because you never forget your first over-water bungalow.
2. Montage Palmetto Bluff - biking through a tunnel of oaks dripping with Spanish moss, experiencing the best guest service ever.
3. Bay View, Michigan - a historic Chautauqua on the shores of Lake Michigan, my family's summer place.
4. The Point - puttering in a Budsin electric boat through the fog on Upper Saranac Lake in upstate New York, retiring to my bathroom with a 2-sided wood fireplace, radiant heat and tub with a view. And, a formal dinner in front of a roaring fire getting to know other guests at a family-style table.
5. Ritz Carlton Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico - my first butler service, swim-out suite and oh, that spa.
6. Under Canvas - any of their 14 locations near national parks will satisfy your craving for camping. Rainy nights in a "tent" are dreamy.
7. Zermatt, Switzerland - skiing in the shadow of the Matterhorn, strolling the cobblestone streets (no cars allowed!), buying chocolate and listening to the chatter of international visitors.
8. Four Seasons Jackson Hole - slopeside, hot tubs and a heated pool deck with cabinets full of heated towels and robes, fabulous service.
9. La Ceiba, Honduras - tropical rainforests and a burgeoning adventure travel scene (stay at Villas Pico Bonito) and a puddle jumper to the island of Roatán, a diver's paradise with a stay at Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort.
10. Grayton Beach, 30a - because after all, a vacation with family is best.
Enjoy this EXPLORE issue and keep on traveling!
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dennis Malcolm Byron, Valerie Shepherd, Kali Kasprzyk
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Valerie Shepherd, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Are you implementing the tax-saving strategies your business needs?
Every year, new rules and opportunities emerge that can lower your tax bill—but only if you know how to use them. Without a plan, you could be missing deductions or paying more than you should. The right approach
city scene
1: Patrick Ferguson of Southern Landscapes & Design and David Brown of Georgia Luxury Pools. 2: Amy Barbree proudly shows off her BuckHaven cover! 3: Milton Ladies gather to support Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta 4: Family fun and fundraising at Down and Derby.
5: Karyn Slovin with Megan Bowman at the annual Down & Derby 6: Tracy Deltac has joined Cleaver Dermatology and Aesthetics. 7: Brian Snitker has been inducted into the Atlanta Braves Hall of Fame.
PICKLE BETTER, BEND EASIER, MOVE STRONGER
Expert hip and knee care by Dr. Brandon Naylor Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Rediscover Freedom of Movement! If HIP or KNEE pain is limiting your life, it’s time to take the next step. Dr. Brandon Naylor is a nationally recognized expert in joint pain, offering a spectrum of treatments, from injections to minimally invasive and advanced arthroplasty techniques proven to reduce recovery time and maximize function.
“I was back on my feet in no time. Dr. Naylor gave me my life back!”
– Susan M., Age 67, Total Knee Replacement
Dr. Brandon Naylor Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
business monthly
AHS Team is Top in Nation
Congratulations to the Alpharetta High School's indoor percussion team. The 36-member team won the national championship, beating out more than 90 other schools. The team has also won five straight Georgia state titles. Their show, "To Listen is to Love," blended music and dance while seniors reflected on intentional listening.
Warrior Freedom Service Dogs Funded
The Alpharetta Lions Club proudly donated over $12,000 to Warrior Freedom Service Dogs. Warrior Freedom Service Dogs provides disabled veterans trained service dogs to connect to society. The Alpharetta Lions Club is a group of fun-loving men and women serving North Fulton by providing opportunities for its citizens. Winner of the Best of Alpharetta Non-Profit award in 2019, the Alpharetta Lions Club has served our community and those in need worldwide since 1953.
Painting your home is too large of an investment to trust to a 'brush-and-bucket' crew. You see the details every day; ensure they are flawless with our white-glove interior service and 7-year exterior protection. For a limited time, we are accepting 3 'Showcase Homes' in Milton and Alpharetta at a preferred rate to anchor our new portfolio.
Elegance that elevates
From concept to completion, we’re your full-service partner for transforming your space. Whether you’re dreaming of a stunning kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, or fully custom closets, we’ve got you covered. With 13 cabinet lines, 25+ custom closet colors, and an extensive selection of countertops, tile, and flooring, we offer options to suit every budget and every style. Let us help bring your vision to life - and turn your house into your dream home.
The Designery Atlanta 404.999.4585 | TheDesignery.com 6080 Sandy Springs Circle NE | Atlanta, GA 30328
Alpharetta Grad Addresses UPenn
Nysa Dharan of Alpharetta, a double major in economics and English literature in the College of Arts & Sciences, celebrated the 270th commencement at the University of Pennsylvania. She spoke at the commencement and credited her family for their support during her time at Penn.
Salute! New Italian Resto
Fiorenza Italian Restaurant is now open. Owned by Florence-raised restaurateur Jessi Qilafi, Fiorenza brings authentic Tuscan cuisine, house-made pastas, Italian wines and craft cocktails to the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a patio aperitivo, date night or a family dinner, Fiorenza was created to bring people together over unforgettable meals, warm hospitality and the traditions of Italian dining. Reservations on OpenTable or call 470.359-6558. Learn more at FiorenzaItalian.com or follow on @fiorenzaitalian.
16037 MANOR CLUB DRIVE, ALPHARETTA, GA 30004
Discover an unparalleled opportunity in The Manor Golf and Country Club. This exclusive 6-acre lot is the only one of its kind with views of the lake, featuring a newly added luxury nanny suite with a separate entrance and elevator access. Beautiful pool with waterslide, home gym, wine cellar and custom bar. Private walking trails and so much more! Embrace a lifestyle of sophistication and privacy in this sought-after community.
$4,975,000 5 Bedroom/6 Full Bathrooms | 10,945 sq. ft.
ARTICLE BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON, AKA ALE SHARPTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRINCESS HOTELS & RESORTS JAMAICA
Jamaica is Calling
Princess Senses The Mangrove and Princess Grand Jamaica
One of Jamaica’s newest luxury resorts— Princess Senses The Mangrove and Princess Grand Jamaica—couldn’t have arrived at a better time for me. Escaping the nonstop pace of Atlanta for a few days of indulgence, relaxation and some Caribbean healing was a high priority. My experience delivered all of that and then some.
Jamaica has always held a personal place in my heart. With family roots on both sides tracing back to the island, I was confident there would be a successful resurgence after Hurricane Melissa swept through in October 2025. I splurged and upgraded my Delta ticket to first class and flew direct from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport into Montego Bay. The 34-mile drive to the resort immediately reminded me of the resilience Jamaicans are renowned for. The island still felt vibrant, rustic and full of life.
Located between Montego Bay and Negril, Princess Senses The Mangrove and Princess Grand Jamaica are adjoining all-inclusive resorts operated by Spainbased Princess Hotels & Resorts, which officially opened the property in late 2024.
The adults-only Princess Senses The Mangrove was fully booked during my stay, but the family-friendly Princess
Grand Jamaica still provided access to nearly all shared amenities, including globally inspired restaurants, multiple bars, an expansive fitness center, and an upscale spa.
Upon arrival, the modern lobby immediately set the tone. The space was airy, contemporary and intentionally minimal, allowing the glistening Caribbean waters in the distance to be the perfect centerpiece. My Platinum Club package elevated the experience instantly with complimentary champagne, private resort transportation, exclusive beach access and butler service.
One of my butlers donning Clarks Wallabees, Dexter, welcomed me with a dap and assured me that anything I needed during my stay was only a text away. As we moved through the property, I quickly realized how massive the resort truly was. Guests drifted between pools, beach areas, excursions and cafes while staff maintained effortless hospitality that never felt forced.
My Swim-Out Platinum Junior Suite felt like its own private retreat. The room featured a soaking tub, rainfall shower, dual sinks, a stocked mini-fridge and sleek contemporary decor. Outside, my terrace opened directly to a semi-private pool
The space was airy, contemporary and intentionally minimal, allowing the glistening Caribbean waters in the distance to be the perfect centerpiece.
lined with palm trees and two loungers. At that moment, vacation mode officially activated.
As someone known for documenting craft beer culture, I naturally explored the resort’s beverage offerings immediately. Besides the quartet of IPAs I packed, I was initially disappointed that only the traditional Red Stripe and its light version were available on the property. However, the freshness of this
island-brewed classic lager paired perfectly with Jamaica’s heat and atmosphere after my first sip. Besides, the resort’s cocktails, wine pairings and elevated dining experiences served as perfect compensation.
The culinary options were extensive, but a few experiences stood out. Food Market Jamaica became my go-to breakfast destination thanks to its high-energy mix of local and
international cuisine. KA Teppanyaki delivered one of the most entertaining dinners of the trip, but the highlight had to be the floating breakfast experience. Served in a private rooftop infinity pool overlooking the property, the traditional Jamaican breakfast that I curated—including ackee and saltfish—arrived floating in a handcrafted basket. That was unforgettable.
Beyond the food and luxury accommodations, the resort constantly offered something to experience. There were live performances, beach parties, including an all-white jam complete with fireworks, numerous aquatic activities, live deejaying poolside and the adults-only Illusion Night Club & Terrace, which was often populated by wedding parties celebrating their unions. The MVP Sports Bar was my frequent favorite stop, while a Swedish massage at Spa Princess provided a much-needed reset.
Ironically, some of the best moments came while doing basically nothing at all—simply chilling near the water, soaking in some rays, slowing down and reconnecting with Jamaica’s mystic energy. The attentive waitstaff made sure I could toast to my ancestors whenever I felt the urge.
By the end of my five-day stay, Princess Senses The Mangrove and Princess Grand Jamaica felt less like a resort and more like a full-scale luxury destination experience. The property promises to become one of Jamaica’s premier vacation destinations for travelers seeking the perfect escape. Of course, I need to come back and confirm it.
Princess-Hotels.com
Princess Senses The Mangrove - Overwater Villas
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
Hit The Road
EDITOR'S PICKS FOR TRAVEL GEAR
Sun-Day Collapsible Tote
The Sun-Day Collapsible Tote is made for sandy towels, pool days, grocery hauls, road trips and spontaneous sunny detours. It folds flat when you don’t need it and pops open when you do. Owalalife.com
Handker Bandanas
Because bandanas! Every design from Handker Bandanas comes straight from founder Beth’s sketchbook and begins with ink or paint on paper. So soft. This one celebrates our national parks. HandkerBandanas.com
Women’s Bamboo Shade Hoodie
Women's Bamboo Shade Hoodie II from Free Fly Apparel is soft with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. Naturally odor-resistant and temperature-regulating, I wear it for gardening, fly fishing and chasing grandchildren. 10 cool colors. FreeFlyApparel.com
Carry-On from Monos
Outfitted with a high-quality polycarbonate shell, the Carry-On from Monos is dent-resistant, impact-friendly and virtually unbreakable. It features an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle, TSAAccepted lock, whisper-quiet wheels, vegan leather details. Great customer service. Monos.com
Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
Gonex Compression Packing Cubes feature a compression zipper design that removes air, allowing you to save up to 30% more space in your suitcase. So cute! 12 different styles for guys and gals. GoNexsport.com
Elevating
When you step into your kitchen, what do you aspire to do? Master a new cooking technique? Serve food even your pickiest family member will eat with enthusiasm?
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are meticulously crafted to achieve a higher standard of performance, dependability, and style—so you can raise the bar on every meal you make.
Your future kitchen starts with Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, featured at
Shades of Summer
Your home deserves window treatments as unique as your style. Our expert design consultants offer personalized guidance to craft solutions that complement your vision. Schedule your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
488 N Main St, Ste 109, Alpharetta, GA 30009 M-F 10:00am - 5:00pm | Sat 10:00am - 3:00pm | Sun Closed 678-822-0928 | www.classicblindsandshutters.com | @classicblindsalpharetta
Refresh
Restore
Experience
The west Texas city is quietly becoming a surprising and trending getaway destination.
LUBBOCK LIGHTS UP UNEXPECTEDLY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY VALERIE SHEPHERD
As someone who loves discovering destinations that feel equal parts creative, relaxing and unexpected, I was caught off guard when I visited Lubbock, Texas. In a good way. Beneath the wide-open West Texas skies is a city filled with one-of-a-kind art, trending music, interesting food, a large college scene and a developing wine community that deserves far more attention than it gets.
Lubbock feels deeply rooted in tradition while buzzing with fresh energy. You can spend the afternoon exploring contemporary art galleries, sipping award-winning wine in charming historic buildings and then end the evening listening to live music under glowing patio lights. And yes - you’ll hear a Buddy Holly song or three while you’re there.
So if you’re looking for a long weekend destination with personality, here’s how to experience Lubbock.
WHERE TO STAY
Cotton Court Hotel is the perfect home base. Located downtown near the Depot District, the boutique-style hotel blends modern warehouse vibes with touches inspired by Lubbock’s cotton heritage and Texas roots. Think string lights, firepits, rocking chairs right outside your door and an atmosphere that feels like summer camp meets stylish Western getaway.
WHERE TO SIP
One of the biggest surprises? Lubbock sits in the heart of Texas wine country. Nearly 90 percent of Texas wine grapes are grown in the surrounding High Plains region, making this city a hidden gem for wine lovers - move over Napa!
McPherson Cellars is a must-visit, housed inside a beautifully restored Coca-Cola bottling plant. If you’re lucky enough to meet Doc McPherson, settle in for stories spanning decades in the Texas wine industry. Adelphos Cellars offers another memorable tasting experience, complete with handcrafted wines made entirely from Texas-grown grapes and a bustling, recently updated tasting room you’ll enter through an actual barrel door.
For craft beer lovers, The Brewery LBK combines inventive brews, local ingredients and a lively downtown atmosphere. Be sure to try a Chilton-inspired drink - Lubbock’s signature cocktail (or beer!), which makes an appearance almost everywhere.
WHERE TO EAT
Lubbock’s food scene balances elevated dining with comforting West Texas classics. Staples like Cast Iron Grill are known for homemade pies that locals happily eat for breakfast, while Dirk’s serves elevated comfort food with serious personality on the wall. For an unforgettable dinner, go to The Nicolett (high props if you can snag a spot in their outside greenhouse). Think ultra-refined approach that’s deeply connected to the region - one of the best meals I’ve had all year.
WHERE TO EXPLORE
The Buddy Holly Center celebrates the city’s legendary rock-and-roll pioneer, while the National Ranching Heritage Center offers an immersive look at frontier life through preserved pioneer structures and outdoor exhibits. Together, they capture the creative spirit and rich history that you’ll quickly see make Lubbock uniquely West Texas.
VisitLubbock.org CottonCourtHotel.com
“Creative, welcoming and not-so-quietly evolving and trending, Lubbock feels like one of Texas’ best-kept secrets that won’t stay secret for long.”
“For an unforgettable dinner, go to The Nicolett (high props if you can snag a spot in their outside greenhouse).”
Silver Linings
FAMILY TRIPS, HICCUPS AND GOLDEN MEMORIES
National Lampoon’s (The Unexpected) Christmas Vacation
By Ashley Davis
During the holiday travel meltdown right before Christmas 2022, we were flying from Mammoth, CA to Atlanta with a layover in Denver, CO. Our flight was delayed to Denver, and we missed our connecting flight. With no other options on any airlines and no rental cars available, we ended up renting an RV to get home. It took 25 hours and 1450 miles, but we made it!
LESSONS LEARNED:
1. Take a non-family member on trips with you; they sure can help you not want to strangle each other.
2. Always keep important items such as medication and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage.
3. Crazy adventures make the best memories.
4. New traditions can help heal grief.
5. Being together with family, no matter when or where or for how long, is always special.
Adventures in France: A Family Journey to Remember
By Courtney Lott
This spring break, my husband Jim, our son Taylor, and I decided to swap our usual routine for a grand adventure in France! While Taylor and I had only experienced France during layovers, we were thrilled to finally dive into the magic of Paris.
On our first day, we made a beeline for the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing at the top, gazing over the city, we felt a delightful mix of excitement and awe. Dinner at Madame Brasserie was the cherry on top—a fun tasting menu that made our taste buds dance!
Of course, we couldn’t visit Paris without hitting the usual hotspots: the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame. After a whirlwind of walking, we decided to give our feet a break and hopped on the Big Bus & Boat Tour. The highlight? Exploring the stunning Versailles Palace and Gardens. We could have spent all day there, biking through the lush greenery and soaking in the history!
Part two of our journey took us to Bordeaux, where we swapped city sights for vineyard views. We indulged in wine tours starting at Pinchon Baron and Château d’Yquem, a legendary sweet white wine. You might wonder what we did with our eightyear-old during these tasting adventures—well, they welcome kids with open arms! Taylor enjoyed non-fermented grape juice paired with chocolate tastings, making him feel like a little connoisseur.
This trip was truly memorable, and I now understand why everyone raves about Paris. You could easily spend weeks there and still discover new treasures. Here’s to family adventures that create lasting memories!
Japan, Family Style
By Brandon Naylor
1. THE HICCUP
We flew to Japan with our two-year-old daughter — ambitious enough on its own. Before leaving the ground, we sat on the tarmac for three hours while the airline addressed a broken seatbelt, and then a mechanical issue was discovered shortly after. Seventeen hours total on the plane with a toddler who had long exhausted her patience. We survived on snacks, screen time and sheer parental will. By the time we landed, Japan had a lot to live up to. Somehow, it delivered anyway.
2. SOMEONE SPECIAL
At our hotel, we crossed paths with a staff member whose warmth made a lasting impression. Originally from Tunisia, she lit up sharing stories of her upbringing and her genuine love of hospitality — not as a job, but as a calling. She and my wife connected easily, and on our last morning, she pulled my wife into a hug at checkout. It was a small moment in a big trip, but a reminder that the people you meet along the way are often what you remember most.
3. THE TRIP
We went to Kyoto first, then Tokyo — and it exceeded every expectation. In Kyoto, we stayed at a hotel along the river; Tokyo offered sweeping views of the bay. We rode the bullet train between cities, participated in a traditional tea ceremony in kimono, and explored fish markets overflowing with uni and tuna. Street food became a daily ritual, and our daughter discovered an unshakeable love of dumplings. The culture, the people, the food — Japan rewards curiosity at every turn, even when you're chasing a toddler through it.
Japan, Aleks Style
By Aleksandar Kapetanovic
THE HICCUP
While traveling through Japan in September 2025, a friend and I visited Kanazawa Castle Park for some personal photography. We had no sunscreen, almost no shade, and learned that September in Japan might as well be peak July. As one of our first stops in the country, there wasn't a better place to discover the innovative use of umbrellas as shade. No umbrellas were sold inside the castle grounds, so we booked a personal tour with a guide gracious enough to share some of his sunlight shelter. He explained that the wide-open lawns were intentionally designed to leave invaders exposed, with nowhere to hide from defenders or the sun. Hundreds of years later, it works just as well on tourists.
LOCAL LOVE
A travel habit I have is asking locals what they actually like to eat. Not what's famous and not what tourists are supposed to try. Something they would actually eat for themselves. So, on my first visit to a renowned Japanese 7-Eleven, in a small town somewhere between Kyoto and Ishikawa, I asked the clerk about her favorite candies. In hindsight, I should have started with Google Translate. Speaking slower, it turns out, isn't the same as translating. But she was as kind as she was patient. She walked me over to the candy section, and we compared favorites through passing phones. I never learned the brand for that caramel-coffee hard candy she picked out, but I remember the moment perfectly. It's one of my favorite little discoveries from the trip. Both as a new favorite treat and for the personal interaction behind it.
THE JOURNEY
This past September, a close friend and I went to Japan for their hosting of the World Expo, although the Expo was more of an excuse to finally make the trip happen. We of course saw the big sights, from the Expo itself to the Umeda Sky Building, historic landmarks, the "must try" restaurants and nightlife. But what made Japan spectacular was everything in between: photography walks, e-bike rides, snack finds, silly ads, the small interactions and everyday scenes that felt more like the main itinerary. We traveled from Osaka to Ishikawa and back, staying in hotels, hostels and ryokans, traveling by rental car, bike and train. In just under two weeks, it felt like we had experienced a lifetime’s worth of Japan, while still feeling like we had just barely begun.
COMMUNITY
Exclusive giveaways.
Good
Philanthropy and Appreciation
SALUTING THE 21ST ANNUAL DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION
The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) is pleased to announce that the 21st Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction presented by the Jumonville Family raised a record-breaking $4 million for children in need in Northwest Florida. The amount raised is a $550,000 increase over the previous year and the most ever raised at an auction in DCWAF history.
A sold-out crowd of more than 600 guests contributed, with proceeds from the auction to benefit DCWAF’s 16 partner children’s charities in Northwest Florida. This year’s auction marks 21 years of giving to children in need in Northwest Florida.
“This historic year for Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is a powerful reflection of what happens when generosity and purpose come together. Surpassing $4 million is more than a record—it represents real, life-changing impact for children across Northwest Florida,” said DCWAF President Karah Young. “The energy in the room was undeniable, highlighted by our highest-ever single lot sale at an unprecedented $400,000—an extraordinary moment that speaks to the passion, generosity and unwavering commitment of our supporters. We are incredibly grateful to our patrons, vintners, sponsors and partners who continue to make this mission possible year after year.”
DCWAF.org
This year’s auction was comprised of 47 Live Lots, 17 Cellar Lots, 25 Super Silent Lots and 110 Silent Lots featuring rare wines, luxury travel experiences and many other one-of-a-kind items. The money raised at this year’s auction will be presented to DCWAF’s charity partners during a private check presentation ceremony scheduled for August at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. THE 21ST ANNUAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIARA WATSON PHOTOGRAPHY
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
JULY 2026
JULY 2ND
Awesome Alpharetta Celebrates America's 250th
Alpharetta Welcome Center | 9:00 AM
The Alpharetta Welcome Center team is hosting a party, and you’re invited. Commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with America-themed cupcakes and unique giveaways. You can also pick up the new Patriotic Pathways brochure, a 13-stop walk in Downtown Alpharetta tying Alpharetta history and landmarks to historical American events. Free AwesomeAlpharetta.com
JULY 3RD
Drone Show and Live Music
Alpharetta City Center | 7:00 PM
Kick off a weekend of celebration at Alpharetta’s first-ever drone show! Before the drone show starts at dusk (around 9 pm), enjoy music from Party on the Moon and celebrate Independence Day with your neighbors and friends.
JULY 4TH
Fireworks on the Fourth Wills Park | 8:30 PM
At dusk, the sky over Wills Park will light up with a spectacular fireworks show celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. This annual celebration is perfect for everyone. Bring your picnics, blankets and chairs to enjoy an evening with family and friends. Rain or shine. AwesomeAlpharetta.com
CONTINUED
JULY 10TH
Alpharetta
Moonlight Market
Alpharetta City Center | 5:00 PM
The North Broad Street and the City Center retail district are transformed into a bustling open-air street market alongside the On the Green Summer Concert Series. Discover unique finds from local artists and makers, enjoy live music and soak up the energy of Alpharetta after dark.
JULY 10TH
On The Green Alpharetta Concert Series
Alpharetta Town Green | 6:00 PM
Each evening kicks off at 6 PM with performances from talented young local musicians, followed by a lively opener at 7 PM and a popular headlining band at 8 PM. Thanks to Alpharetta’s open-container district, you can sip a beer or glass of wine as you stroll. July 10: Ashley Brooks. July 24: Tialuana Live.
