

CHILDREN’S + PETS ISSUE
NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR
LIFE + CULTURE
THE SPORT OF EQUESTRIAN
CHILDHOOD MEMORIES





CHILDREN’S + PETS ISSUE
NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR
LIFE + CULTURE
THE SPORT OF EQUESTRIAN
CHILDHOOD MEMORIES
Dear Readers,
Summer in the South has a way of slowing time just enough for stories to unfold—under the glow of fair lights, across grassy fields, and in the steady rhythm of lives lived with purpose.
In this issue, we’re celebrating that unmistakable spirit through the lens of childhood wonder, family legacy, and quiet strength.
You’ll find the heart-pounding excitement of the North Georgia State Fair, where tradition meets thrill and hundreds of thousands gather each year to share laughter, food, and unforgettable memories. Just a few pages over, a rising young equestrian reminds us what passion looks like when paired with discipline—and introduces us to the stables and centers helping shape the next generation of riders across the Southeast.
We also take you inside a remarkable family story: a band of brothers, all former collegiate athletes, whose legacy of grit, leadership, and love for the game is now inspiring their own children to follow in their footsteps. One brother, in particular, has taken that same competitive spirit and channeled it into the world of business—launching his own company and pursuing a new kind of dream with the same drive that once fueled him on the field.
Finally, we highlight a powerful nonprofit quietly doing extraordinary work— standing up for children and bringing together community leaders to who can help provide the support, tools and hope that children and families need to enjoy a happy and healthy life.
Here’s to long summer days, big dreams, and the members of our community who create bold, beautiful stories that bring us together.
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER
@EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Sydney Kate Lewis | sydneykate.lewis@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rae Kaiser | raekaiser@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Wendy Edwards, Rae Kaiser, Jennifer Rust, Jinger Robins
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lili Weik Photography, Amanda Jordan-Buck It Equine, Nikola Kratky
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
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Trust the E+E Group to elevate your next move.
The Luckie family takes on a new venture inspired by cherished childhood memories.
Saddle Up: Where Champions Train
An equestrian athlete and southeast "stomping grounds".
An evening of hope and healing for children in crisis.
The
The growing popularity of equestrian has our attention! From large scale equestrian centers to smaller stables, East Cobb's award-winner hunter jumper Averie Rykman knows what riders experience during the height of competition season.
1: Celebrating 13th Annual Rockin' the Runway benefitting The DrakeHouse with Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul 2: Cobb Community 3: Steve and Elaine
celebrate marriage of son Matt to Rosa at Atlanta Country Club 4: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society East Cobb chapter raises money for Lymphoma 5: Habitat for Humanity Sponsor Partner Assurant dedicates home to
Brasfield & Gorrie’s Atlanta team partners with Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta 7: 2025 Magnolia Ball planning committee celebrates their 40th year anniversary at Dunwoody Country Club
A handful of miles from East Cobb lies CT Cantina & Taqueria Dunwoody. Newly opened and nestled at the Perimeter (I-285), this flagship location is the largest yet. Catering to nearby bustling corporate and residential communities, this dining experience combines signature fresh flavors with exciting new features and expansive tequila and margarita menu. A standout offering is Tierra Coffee, a coffee shop located within the restaurant offering unparalleled espresso and freshly baked goods. https://www.cttacos.com
Founded in Chicago's River North neighborhood by owner/operator Brad Parker, CEO and Founder of Parker Hospitality, The Hampton Social Atlanta is a lifestyle-concept restaurant serving carefully designed and authentic East Coast cuisine. The award-winning culinary team was on point at the grand opening of the new Dunwoody location. Known for its “Rosé All Day” theme, The Hampton Social menu boasts a variety of rosé wines, handcrafted cocktails and fresh cuisine including seafood, steaks, salads and pizzas.
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Nearly 20,000 lawns and counting! We offer comprehensive lawn care services for residential and commercial clients that protect landscapes from insects and disease, while promoting growth and bloom potential. Year-over-year our proven professionals deliver results. Our highly trained and skilled lawn care professionals know exactly how and when to implement treatment programs addressing seasonal conditions affecting turf, trees and shrubs.
Our goal is for you to enjoy the outdoors all year long. Our unique programs are designed to best fit your needs. From NEW CLIENT offers to our Signature Lawncare and Signature Shrub Programs, we meet your lifestyle and budget.
The Cobb County High School Coalition and Assurant officially dedicated future homeowner David’s beautiful new home. The 28th Habitat home built by Habitat Club students from Campbell, Harrison, Hillgrove, Pope, and Walton High Schools. “The longevity of our Cobb High School Coalition is an amazing accomplishment,” says Kyle Huhtanen, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta. “We also are grateful for Assurant, our long-time partner who continues to support our mission every year.”
Georgia enacted a new law to improve the transportation of organs and medical teams for transplants. Senator Albers, who donated a kidney to his son in 2021, said the legislation is personally significant to him and his family. It designates emergency organ transport vehicles as essential services, similar to ambulances, allowing them to operate on public roads during transplant-related emergencies.
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Cobb celebrated a year of shared generosity and impact at 2nd annual Activate Good, hosted by the CCF. Commemorating the Foundation's 2024 Impact Report and recognizing powerful outcomes when community works together. “This wasn’t just a celebration—it was a rallying cry,” said Shari Martin, president and CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “At CCF, we mobilize people, ideas and resources—but real impact happens only when the community is ready to be mobilized....and Cobb showed up.” cobbfoundation.org
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Riding bikes until the streetlights came on, playing until your eyelids could barely stay open and spending endless summer days on the baseball diamond may conjure images for many that grew up in East Cobb in the 1980's. For Dustin Luckie and his triplet band of brothers, it was the stuff in which summer life was made. Grandma Leila’s in Pensacola is also remembered fondly for shenanigans, such as the time Uncle Joe tied trash bags together, added dish soap and made a homemade slip and slide. Dustin didn’t realize it, but this act would inspire him to make a major life change in adulthood, catapulting him into the world of entrepreneurship.
THE LUCKIE FAMILY TAKES ON A NEW VENTURE INSPIRED BY CHERISHED CHILDHOOD MEMORIES.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
Yet, between boyhood and manhood came a plethora of experiences that would shape the men the Luckie Brothers would become. Growing up, they were taught the value of hard work. “Myself, and my other brothers Nick, Michael, Miles, and sister, Megan were raised by a strong mother that worked the night shift at Grady Hospital for over 28 years to sacrifice for us, while my father, R.D., took on an extra shift at the printing press to give us spending money," says Dustin.
Rooted in strong values and driven by an unrelenting hunger to be the best, the Luckie brothers set their sights on playing football for the University of Georgia. Not
only did the triplets achieve this goal, but together they raised families to appreciate these same principles. As a result, Dustin's nephews will play football for the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and the University of Georgia. Dustin relays, “As my wife Nicolette also played soccer at the University of Georgia, we hope that our family will go in the record book for earning the most varsity letters at UGA!"
The shared experiences of youth and early adulthood forged an unbreakable bond between the Luckie brothers. Dustin states, “We had to grow up close, and the bond of playing sports, primarily football, together in our youth, high school, and
later for the University of Georgia, has provided us with a connection that can't be broken.” This connection has fostered a family culture of following dreams and has given the next generation of Luckies’ an amazing example to follow. The Luckie brothers have always followed their passions and they hope to instill the same ambition in their own children.
So, when Dustin felt it was time for a change after 22 years in the wine industry, he decided to take a chance by bringing his best childhood memories into a business idea that included his family. Jump and Slide was born to bring amazing memories
to families across Atlanta. Located in Marietta, Jump and Slide offers a vast array of party/special event inflatables to suit any occasion, whether a backyard birthday party, a church or school event, or seasonal large-scale carnivals. Offerings include wet and dry slides, concessions tents and supplies (popcorn/cotton candy/snow cones), inflatable interactive games, slip and slides and obstacle courses.
Whatever your party and event needs are, Jump and Slide has the inventory and equipment to cover it all, with over 100 different units available and the largest selection of party/event inflatables in Cobb,
for both large and small-scale events. Their fully insured and trained staff are always integrating new, equipment and inflatables that are always delivered safe and clean. In addition, you can rent a cutting-edge mechanical bull named Buckie that is sure to be a hit! Jump and Slide’s five star Google rating shows that many have already joined in the fun and are thrilled with the value and service provided.
If you want to keep the party going, Dustin’s sister-in-law, Bree, offers the glamping aspect of the business including themed slumber party/sleepover events for boys or girls, complete with snacks, games and inflatables. “We would like to be a one-stop shop to make meaningful occasions truly special for kids and alleviate the stress of having to plan these events for busy moms," says Dustin.
The Luckie family feels honored to serve their community in a way that brings families together and creates lasting memories. Meet the family and plan your event at https://www.jumpandslide.com.
An equestrian athlete and southeast "stomping grounds".
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
You can smell the fresh green grass and hay in the air as the morning dew shimmers across the field. This is horse country in summertime, where many may flock to birthday parties, summer camps and even serious competitions. In fact, those birthday parties may even ignite a passion for Equestrian Sports and a life-long fervor for an ancient pastime that is enjoyed by so many.
Just ask Averie Rykman, a seasoned, award-winning, hunter jumper athlete from East Cobb, whose dedication to the sport has earned her many accolades in her nine years of riding. On her cherished horse Burlesque, she has acquired an impressive wall of honors and they continue to accumulate. Averie’s passion for the sport began at a riding ring when she was five and culminated in her riding in the rated circuit, competing at equestrian facilities all over.
From large-scale equestrian centers to smaller stables, Averie has been able to sample what riders might experience during competition season. One of her favorites needs no introduction and is nestled in “The Horse Capital of the World”,Ocala Florida.
The World Equestrian Center was named one of Time Magazine’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, and supremely lives up to this title. With twenty-three outdoor arenas, six climate-controlled indoor arenas, and over 2,800 permanent stalls, this state-of-the-art, world-class, luxury facility aims to appeal to more than just horse-loving patrons. The masterpiece of the resort, The Equestrian Hotel, anchors its lavish suite of amenities like The Riding Academy Hotel, Calluna Spa, seven dining concepts, flexible meeting spaces and over thirty retailers and seasonal vendors. Pools, splash pads, fitness centers and golf cart rentals round out recreational offerings. “There is so much you can do there. It’s a place for anything and such a nice facility. It’s amazing”, exclaims Averie.
Equestrian sports and horsemanship’s popularity have also resulted in some excellent, smaller stables that offer expert trainers, giving young and older riders alike the foundation they need to succeed. JLB Stables (Jennifer L. Buck Stables) a well-respected, boutique, full-service barn in Cobb County, welcomes riders of all ages to participate in this time-honored sport. JLB Stables prides itself on training riders in hunter jumper, equitation and dressage shows. “We have a fantastic group of children, teens, twenty-somethings and adults that have various goals, from aspirations of competing to just wanting to have a great time,” says Ms. Buck.
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In the broader Southeast, you will find that Brownland Farm in Franklin, Tennessee also aims to share their piece of paradise with the community. With 200 acres that contain four schooling rings, as well as four show rings, Brownland Farm is the home of some of the most decorated equestrians in the world, as well as those that just want to be in the horse environment. This gives just the right experience for every rider, no matter what their goals are.
Averie agrees that smaller stables lay a great foundation for anyone interested in the sport. “Competing can be very expensive and time consuming, so it is important to lay the groundwork at a smaller stable. Through the guidance of a smaller stable you will learn about yourself and what it takes to compete at the highest level before you move on to a bigger barn with bigger and more expensive horses,” Averie shares.
Whether riding in a world-class facility in a high-stakes competition, or simply enjoying a trot on a family-owned farm, the world of equestrian sports has a vast array of offerings. For those that are ready to embark on a journey that enriches lives and fosters growth, the horses are ready to meet you where you are in that shimmery, green field.
The world of Equestrian Sports is vast, exciting and competitive. Here, we spotlight the places and spaces where top athletes have the opportunity to train, grow and compete.
ARTICLE BY JINGER ROBINS
SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center—one of Cobb County’s most trusted nonprofits—is proud to host its 22nd annual “Hearing Children’s Voices” Gala on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Truist Park. The event will raise critical funds to support SafePath’s mission of reducing the trauma of abused children and their non-offending families throughout their journeys toward healing and hope.
This year’s gala will feature Michael J. Register, Director of Cobb County’s Department of Public Safety, reflecting his commitment to protecting the most vulnerable… the children. Director Register will tell his childhood experience firsthand as he shares how no advocacy center was available to him during his traumatic childhood experience.
Funds raised support a wide range of trauma-informed services. These include forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapy, counseling, advocacy, and intervention services that help families navigate legal challenges and childhood trauma. Additionally, proceeds ensure SafePath can continue essential operations that make its work possible.
This year’s gala is led by dedicated Event Chairs Lisa and Sam Olens and Lily and Chris Wasserman, all of whom have been compassionate supporters of the organization.
“Lisa and I are honored to co-chair this year’s SafePath Gala,” says Sam Olens. As former Directors of their Board, we understand and appreciate how invaluable their services are to both the victims and their families, as well as in assisting law enforcement. As they say, “every child deserves a safe path” and we have an obligation to assist those children as much as possible to lead healthy lives so they can reach their full potential.”
Chris Wasserman adds: “After Lily and I were introduced to SafePath through Leadership Cobb, we knew we had to lean in and get involved.
SafePath isn't just an organization; it's a lifeline. Their tireless dedication provides critical support and a beacon of hope for children and families facing unimaginable challenges. The impact they make is profound and far-reaching—deeply personal and truly transformative.”
Presenting Sponsor, HealthTrackRx and Champion Sponsor, The Dunn Foundation, will be in attendance along with over 350 guests supporting the protection of children. The evening will feature dinner, casino, awareness, celebration, and community impact.
To learn more about the 2025 “Hearing Children’s Voices” Gala or to get involved, visit: www.safepath.org/event/hcv2025
Let’s face it, August heat makes the garden a little less fun than it was in May, and any hint of cooler weather is still a hot minute away in Georgia. However, there is lots to do with plant containers now to revive them and keep them looking beautiful through the hot summer months and into fall. You can even make it a family affair - a fun, hands-on experience to tackle with the kids.
1. Prune annuals, vines and trailing plants. We like seeing plants trail down the side of a pot, but not touching the ground. We continually trim back to keep plants bushy and eliminate insect interest from the ground. Trim flower stems, stalks and vines just above a new set of leaves or blooms forming. Dragon wing begonia, salvia, gaura, gomphrena, canna lily and coleus are good to trim back now for fall flowers and healthy foliage.
2. Treat for slugs and snails. If you see holes in your leaves, especially on big leaves like caladium, potato vine, petunia or heuchera, treat with slug pellets. Sprinkle a teaspoon or two on top of the soil at the base of impacted plants.
3. Fertilize lightly. This includes roses, azaleas, and flowering annuals for fall blooms. Always water in fertilizer. Never leave it on dry soil. Our go-to fertilizer is Nelson’s ColorStar. I fully recommend this product and promise hand over heart that JRB is not sponsored. We use this for all our clients and in our own gardens.
Jennifer Rust is the founder of Jennifer Rust Botanicals, a botanical design studio started and operating in East Cobb. JRB creates biophilic designs for commercial properties both locally and nationally, as well as a seasonal subscription service that delivers professionally designed planters to doors across Atlanta at the start of each season.
JenniferRustBotanicals.com
The North Georgia State Fair Turns 93!
ARTICLE BY RAE KAISER
When the golden hour hits just right and the scent of funnel cakes meets the roar of a rollercoaster, you know exactly where you are: the North Georgia State Fair. For nearly a century, this cherished North Georgia tradition has transformed late September into a sensory wonderland—and this year festival organizers are pulling out all the stops. Presented by community cornerstone Superior Plumbing, from September 18-28 the Fair returns to Jim R. Miller ready to dazzle and delight over 300,000 guests with rides,
lights, laughter, and, of course, lots (and lots) of tasty delectables!
The North Georgia State Fair is more than a celebration. It’s a gathering ground for families, friends, and future memories. “This isn’t just an event,” says a longtime fairgoer. “It’s part of who we are. We come for the memories, and we leave with more than we can count.”
"Few things bring people together quite like the Superior Plumbing North Georgia State Fair — and that’s why we’re proud to be known as The Fair Plumber. We believe in the power of community, and the importance of exciting, wholesome events where families can laugh, connect, and make lasting memories. At Superior Plumbing, our mission goes beyond pipes and repairs — it’s about giving back to the people who have supported us all these years. Sponsoring the Fair is our way of saying thank you to the community we’re proud to serve." - Jay Cunningham.
From nostalgic hay bale contests and blue-ribbon jams to motocross stunts and monster trucks, this year’s lineup is a joyful collision of old favorites and electrifying new acts. So, what’s new this year? Try soaring motorcycles, robotic comedians, and cows that fly—seriously. The must-see Grandstand Events are all included with admission.
Thanks to the support of Carriage Kia of Woodstock, the Carriage Kia Grandstand Series is jam-packed from 406 FMX High Air Tour (with snowmobiles and a UTV backflip finale) to Demolition Derby, Monster Trucks, and The American Bull Riders Tour for thrilling rodeo action. Don’t miss Mutton Bustin’ for the cutest cowboy competition ever! You’ll also find jugglers, hypnotists, comedians, clowns, and the unbelievable Wall of Death motorcycle stunt show inside a wooden silo. And don’t leave without a bark-filled standing ovation at the Ready Go Dog Show—it’s paws-down one of the fair’s most heartwarming performances. Our youngest ones can ride ponies and pet wallabies, thanks to Eudora Farms Exotic Petting Zoo and the beloved North Georgia Animals Barn, while the Great James H. Drew Exposition Midway promises over 35 rides, including the Georgia Mountain Lift, the Mega Slide, and the wild Wildcat Coaster.
Thanks to the dedication and generosity of so many, the Fair continues to grow while staying rooted in what matters most: joy, tradition, and community. “Northside Hospital is proud to once again sponsor the North Georgia State Fair for a
fifth consecutive year. And to be a part of a tradition that brings the community together for family fun, entertainment and lasting memories.” - Katie Pearson, Chief Operating Officer, Northside Hospital Cherokee.
Of course, what’s a fair without indulgence? Get ready to loosen that belt— between deep-fried Oreos, scrumptious corn on the cob, monster-size turkey legs, and creative culinary surprises, the food game is strong. Local vendors bring flair and flavor, and you can always count on the classics.
Beyond the rides, funnel cakes, and all the fun, the North Georgia State Fair is making a meaningful difference in the community. In June, Fair leadership celebrated student achievement and community impact with the announcement of $465,000 in total donations. Ten outstanding high school seniors were honored through the Fair’s Scholarship Program, recognizing their academic excellence and commitment to service. An additional $135,000 in donations was awarded to nine local nonprofit organizations, along with a $30,000 matching grant pledged to the Cobb Schools Foundation. To support continued growth at Jim R. Miller Park, the Fair also contributed $250,000 to Cobb County Government for facility expansion. Investing in the future of Cobb County has become a proud tradition, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, community partners, and the families who make the fair what it is today.
Fairgoers can plan ahead with discount tickets at O’Reilly Auto Parts, and parking is a breeze with free lots and shuttle service from Cobb Safety Village. Insider tip: ride specials start at $25 and kids under 10 get in free!)
Mark your calendar, pack your sense of wonder, and we’ll meet you under the lights. Be sure to visit the Fair's website for event details, safety guidelines, and special admission and ride offers.
www.northgeorgiastatefair.com
ARTICLE BY RAE KAISER
At the intersection of innovation, design, and dependable service, Blingle of Marietta is redefining what it means to light up the outdoors. As a premier provider of outdoor lighting solutions, they offer a diverse range of services—from permanent architectural and seasonal lighting to patio, landscape, and commercial-grade installations—tailored to enhance both homes and businesses with elegance and efficiency. Whether it's all year round or during the holidays, their lighting solutions elevate every space.
"What sets us apart isn’t just the beauty of our lighting—it’s the power of vision. Using advanced visualization technology, we provide clients a personalized preview of how their property will be transformed," - shares Eric Mesimer. Whether you’re illuminating a walkway, showcasing architectural details, or designing a show-stopping holiday display, Blingle of Marietta brings your unique vision to life with precision and artistry.
Every project is powered by our signature line of energy-efficient luxury LED lighting, carefully selected for both performance and aesthetics. And with our Peace of Mind Service Guarantee, clients know the company is committed long after the lights are installed—promptly resolving any post-installation needs with the same level of care and professionalism.
Now may just be the perfect time to start thinking about fall and winter—and how to make the most of your outdoor spaces for gatherings with the people you care about most. Be the house everyone flocks to—the go-to spot for gathering, relaxing, and making memories
Blingle of Marietta believes outdoor lighting is more than utility—it’s about creating captivating ambiance, extending your living space, boosting curb appeal, and even increasing property value. From warm residential retreats to bold commercial statements, they're proud to illuminate the places where life happens, day and night.
www.blingle.com/marietta-ga/
Established in 1973, our family-owned and operated jewelry business has earned the reputation as one of the Atlanta’s most distinguished custom jewelers. Reflecting on the rich tapestry of the last five decades, we are honored to be the personal jeweler of hundreds of families. Our hearts are filled with deep appreciation for the enduring relationships we’ve cultivated, the trust bestowed upon us across generations, and the cherished opportunity to be part of your most treasured moments.