Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
Introducing The Ridge, a brand-new luxury mountain retreat just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge. Soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and panoramic mountain views pair with a custom chef’s kitchen, premium finishes, and seamless indoor-outdoor living to create the ultimate escape.
Set on expansive grounds with two natural springs, the property also features a steam shower, Tesla charger, outdoor fire pit, and endless potential for recreation or future expansion—making it the perfect mountain retreat.
Legacy Worth Celebrating
There is something special about the connections that shape our lives - the lessons passed from parent to a child, the traditions that bring communities together, and the relationships that stand the test of time. As we put together this issue, one theme surfaced again and again - legacy.
Our cover story beautifully captures that sentiment through the lens of a trusted veterinary practice that has cared for generations of local families and their beloved pets. Even more inspiring is the image on our cover itself - three generations standing together. Doctors, mothers, daughters, and children. It is a powerful reminder that while professions may build reputations, it is family that builds legacies.
That same spirit can be found throughout these pages. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Marietta Art in the Park, a beloved community tradition that has welcomed artists, families, and visitors to Historic Marietta Square for four decades. What began as a local gathering has become one of the region's most anticipated cultural events.
We also explore another important aspect of legacy - preparing the next generation for success. In this issue, you'll find thoughtful guidance from a seasoned Certified Financial Planner on strategies designed to help families build a strong foundation for their children and grandchildren. From 529 education savings plans to custodial IRAs and long-term wealth planning, these tools can create opportunities that extend far beyond today.
We take a look ahead to the North Georgia State Fair, where generations continue to gather for rides, entertainment, agriculture exhibits, and memories that become tradition.
And because our pets are among our most cherished family members, we're having fun sharing partner pet profiles. These spotlights remind us that some of life's greatest companions come with four legs, wagging tails, and an unconditional ability to make every day a little brighter.
As summer begins its transition toward fall, I hope this issue encourages you to pause and appreciate the people, places, and traditions that matter most. Whether you're creating memories with your children, enjoying time with grandchildren, spoiling a beloved pet, or simply gathering with friends and neighbors at a local event, these moments become the stories that define our lives.
Warmly,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rei Keiser
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Emily Anne Jackson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Elizabeth Francis, Brandon Guntor, CFP®CLU®, Rei Keiser, Valerie Shepherd, Elizabeth Francis, Kali Kasprzyk
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Adrienne Louise Photography; Pena Rosa Studios, knox-moss photography, Jeremy Estroff, 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 Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
1: Q99.7 Atlanta hosts outstanding Cobb teachers Cheryl Dean and Amanda Ratigan on Trips for Teachers! 2: North Georgia State Fair partners with Superior Plumbing and Drew Exposition-awards scholarships to Cobb seniors. 3: The Home Depot Foundation donates $235,000 to Habitat for Humanity NW Atlanta to support veterans.
ATLANTA BED SWINGS
MORE THAN A SWING IT’S A FRONT ROW SEAT TO LIFE’S BEST MOMENTS!
We create beautiful outdoor furniture and are proud to have installed over 4,000 custom bed swings. From custom sectionals to swivel gliders, every piece is built with quality craftsmanship to specification. SHOPPING EXPERIENCES OFFERED
COBB COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR
Back-to-school season brings new schedules, busy mornings, and exciting changes but don’t forget about your pet’s health needs! August is a great time to get back on track with wellness visits, vaccines, and preventive care before fall arrives.
nce Veterinary Clinic is here to help your ive through every stage of life Because when family, they deserve nothing but the
North Georgia State Fair Invests in Community
North Georgia State Fair awards dozens of grants to nonprofits providing vital services across Cobb and scholarships to local students. In a landmark decision, North Georgia State Fair leadership and community partners presented Cobb County with $200,000 in support of Jim R. Miller Park improvements. From the North Georgia State Fair to cultural festivals and seasonal celebrations, the Park has long been the backdrop for many of Cobb's most cherished community traditions and annual events.
Photography by North Georgia State Fair
Dr. Suhasini Arun | Dr. Jason Mann
Trailblazer Ariela Vega Earns Historic Title
Ariela Vega, rising senior at Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA), became the first female to be crowned State Champion at SkillsUSA Georgia. "So Proud. The amount of time and effort she put in was truly incredible. To be a part of her journey from Local to Region to State and now National Champion has definitely been the highlight of my career. I couldn't be happier for Ariela," said CITA HVAC teacher John Martin.
Photography by Cobb County School District
75 Years of Taking Flight In Georgia
Lockheed Martin celebrates a massive milestone-75 years of continuous operations in Marietta! Governor Brian Kemp recently applauded the aerospace giant, which employs over 5,600 locals at its Cobb facility and contributed $4.5 billion to Georgia’s economy in 2025. Having added 1,200 new jobs since 2019, the company continues to soar, fueling the community while building worldclass aircraft like the F-35. As an active community partner, Lockheed Martin supports STEM education, military families, and disaster relief.
Photography by Pena Rosa Studios
Jewelry Artisans Named 2026 Best of Dunwoody!
Congratulations to Jewelry Artisans on being named 2026 Best of Dunwoody - Best Jeweler! This well-deserved recognition comes as the company celebrates more than 50 years of exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, and trusted relationships. From custom creations to cherished heirloom restorations, their commitment to excellence continues to shine. Here’s to five decades of serving the community and many more years of helping clients celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
The Beautiful Game Comes to East Cobb
Welcome Soccer House to East Cobb, Marietta. The ultimate soccer destination for all things soccer! Founded by Drew Cozart, this family-owned business stems from a pure passion for the sport. Drew believes soccer is a culture that unites people. Their mission is simple - serve the local community by making high-quality gear and resources accessible to players and fans of all levels. You're invited to stop by and gear up for your next match!
Where Compassion, Family, and Exceptional Care Come Together
ARTICLE BY REI KAISER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PENA ROSA STUDIOS
There are places that care for pets, and then there are places that care for entire families. Walk through the doors of Providence Veterinary Clinic in Marietta and you’ll immediately feel the difference. Every greeting is genuine. Every patient is treated with the same care and attention. Every family is welcomed with warmth, empathy, and a level of expertise that builds trust from the very first visit.
For Founder and Owner Dr. Taylour Welborn, veterinary medicine has always been about far more than diagnosing illness or performing surgery. It is about honoring the extraordinary bond between people and the animals who share their lives.
That calling was shaped long before she opened the doors to Providence. Growing up, Dr. Welborn witnessed medicine not as an abstract profession, but as a lived example of purpose and impact. Her father, a respected neurosurgeon, spent his career performing highly complex, life-altering brain surgeries. But what left the deepest impression on her was not only his technical skill - it was the way he showed up for people. She watched as families placed their deepest trust in his hands, as patients spoke of him with gratitude and reverence, and as he carried both the weight and privilege of healing lives at their most vulnerable moments. In him, she saw the quiet strength of precision, compassion, and responsibility working in harmony. Those early observations became foundational, shaping her understanding that medicine is ultimately about connectionabout showing up with skill, empathy, and humanity when it matters most. Inspired by his example, she charted her own path into medicine, ultimately finding her calling in veterinary care, where she could merge that same commitment to healing with her lifelong love for animals. CONTINUED >
“Balancing motherhood, veterinary medicine, and business ownership is hard. The truth is - I couldn’t do it without my husband, family, and team. Caring for others at home and at work is my greatest passion,” shares Dr. Taylour Welborn, D.V.M.
Today, that vision lives through Providence Veterinary Clinic. The Marietta-based practice has become known for delivering comprehensive, progressive veterinary medicine - offering everything from wellness care and advanced diagnostics to surgery, dentistry, reproductive services, emergency care, hospice support, and beyond. With a commitment to innovation and continued investment in modern veterinary technology, the practice ensures pets receive exceptional care close to home.
Ask any client what makes Providence truly extraordinary, and the answer rarely begins with services or equipment. It begins with people. Providence is home to a remarkable team of veterinarians who share a unified philosophy: every pet deserves excellent medicine, and every family deserves compassion, honesty, and respect. Their collaborative approach allows each doctor to bring unique strengths to the table while working seamlessly together to achieve the best possible outcomes for every patient.
The result is a culture defined not by hierarchy, but by harmony. That culture extends far beyond the exam rooms. The women leading Providence Veterinary Clinic are also mothers, daughters, wives, and mentors - balancing demanding medical careers with the full and beautiful complexity of family life. Like so many professional women, they navigate long days, emotional decisions, and the constant pull between responsibility at work and presence at home. Yet within that balance lies a quiet strength: the ability to give deeply in both worlds and to find meaning in each.
At Providence, that balance is not a contradiction - it is part of the foundation. Care for animals and care for family are not separate callings. They are intertwined. This month’s cover image captures that truth in a way words alone cannot. Standing together are the physicians of Providence Veterinary Clinic, their children, and their beloved pets - three generations connected by shared values of compassion, service, and unconditional love. It is not simply a portrait of a veterinary practice - it is a portrait of legacy.
It reminds us that children learn empathy not through instruction alone, but through observation - by watching adults kneel beside animals in need, by seeing gentleness in moments of difficulty, and by understanding that care is an active, daily choice. They learn responsibility in small moments: feeding a puppy before school, comforting a nervous pet, or celebrating a recovery. And they learn that meaningful work is not just about achievement - it is about impact.
Inside the clinic, that philosophy is lived out every day. Clients are known by name. Pets are remembered not just for their medical history, but for their personalities. New puppies and kittens are celebrated. Senior pets are honored with thoughtful, compassionate care. And in the most difficult moments - when families must say goodbye - those same relationships provide comfort, honesty, and support. Over time, those connections become something more than client relationships. They become part of the community’s shared story.
Dr. Welborn’s vision was never simply to build a practice. It was to create a place where advanced medicine and genuine
human connection could coexist without compromise. A place where excellence in care is matched by excellence in compassion and where every family feels seen, supported, and understood.
In many ways, Providence Veterinary Clinic reflects the very best of Marietta and Cobb County - rooted in community, elevated by expertise, and sustained by relationships that endure far beyond a visit. This feature is not only about exceptional veterinarians or the animals they care for. It is about legacy. It is about women building meaningful careers while raising families. It is about children growing up surrounded by compassion in action. It is about the enduring bond between people and the pets who become part of their lives.
THE North Georgia STATE FAIR
Where Tradition, Wonder, Community, and Connection Collide
ARTICLE BY REI KEISER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KNOX-MOSS PHOTOGRAPHY
Every fall, as the Georgia heat begins to soften and the evenings turn golden, Marietta welcomes one of its most anticipated traditions—the North Georgia State Fair—drawing visitors from across the Southeast.
More than a seasonal event, the fair is a living celebration of community. It is where generations gather to share laughter, create memories, and the simple joy of being together. From the glow of carnival lights to the sound of music drifting across the fairgrounds, the experience is both timeless and ever-changing.
Hosted at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, presented by Superior Plumbing, the North Georgia State Fair is widely recognized as one of the largest and most beloved fairs in the Southeast, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Yet what keeps people returning is not just its scale, but its spirit.
At its heart, the fair is built around family. Children arrive wide-eyed, pulled toward the midway’s spinning lights and the promise of adventure. Parents and grandparents follow close behind, often sharing stories of fairs past - first Ferris wheel rides, prize-winning games, and nights spent under the stars. The fair becomes a bridge between generations, where memory and new experience meet. With attractions and entertainment designed for all ages, toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents alike enjoy one of the most genuinely multigenerational events in the region. Additionally, with thoughtfully designed experiences and enhanced accessibility supported in part through Mobility Plus Marietta, the fair continues to ensure guests of all ages and mobility levels can comfortably enjoy every part of the experience. “We are pleased to partner with Mobility Plus this year to offer a better experience to our fair family, offering wheelchairs, strollers, walkers and more for rent at all three entrances,” says Fair Manager Tod Miller.
Each year, the grounds transform into a vibrant world of entertainment. Nearly 40 rides fill the midway, from adrenaline-pumping thrill rides to family favorites and classic kiddie attractions. Signature attractions unique to Marietta include the Mega Slide, Wildcat Rollercoaster, and Georgia Mountain lift experience.
Beyond the rides, the fair’s entertainment lineup has become a major draw in its own right. Included with admission, the Carriage Kia Grandstand hosts high-energy nightly shows packed with skill, adrenaline, and spectacle. Audiences can expect gravity-defying freestyle motocross performances from elite riders, including aerial tricks, backflips, and precision stunts that push the limits of physics and courage. Demolition derby events bring roaring engines, crashing metal, and crowd-pleasing intensity as drivers battle for survival on the dirt track. The second night will feature the Great Cobb County Pile-Up, where different Cobb County organizations compete for demolition dominance with $10,000 in prize money going to local charities. Don't forget the Mutton Bustin' event where kids under 60 pounds cling to running sheep to see who can ride the longest!
One of the most anticipated additions is the Off Axis Stunt Show, a fast-paced production featuring worldclass performers combining trampoline routines, pogo stunts, teeterboard acrobatics, and comedy-driven crowd interaction. With no downtime between acts, it delivers a nonstop rhythm of laughter and gasps, keeping audiences fully engaged from start to finish.
For families, the fair offers even more unexpected moments of wonder. The Ready Go Dog Show features world champion Frisbee dogs, diving dogs, and high-jump canine athletes who turn agility into entertainment. The North Georgia Animals Petting Barn provides a hands-on experience with goats, ponies, llamas, rabbits, and other farm animals.
Live entertainment extends beyond the grandstand and midway stages. Local musicians, community performances, beauty pageants, and youth showcases round out a full schedule of daily programming that reflects the region’s cultural heartbeat. Whether it’s a gospel choir, a local band, or a talent showcase, each performance adds to the fair’s community-driven atmosphere.
Of course, no visit would be complete without the food! From classic funnel cakes and caramel apples to savory fair favorites and creative seasonal treats, the culinary experience is as much a part of the tradition as the rides themselves. Each bite becomes part of the memory. Be on the look-out for the winners of the annual Crazy Fair Food Contest.
CONTINUED >
Plan Your Visit
The North Georgia State Fair returns this fall to Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, presented by Superior Plumbing. One of the Southeast’s largest fairs, the event features nearly 40 rides, nightly grandstand shows, live entertainment, and iconic food favorites. New this year: wheelchair, stroller, and walker rentals are available at all three entrances through Mobility Plus Marietta . Highlights include freestyle motocross, demolition derby, the Off Axis Stunt Show, the Ready Go Dog Show, and the Great Cobb County Pile-Up benefiting local charities. This year’s theme is “Fair Nights Under Stars and Stripes.” For tickets and dates, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com.
Yet what makes the North Georgia State Fair truly special is not any single attraction - it is the feeling it creates. In a world that often moves too quickly, the fair offers something rare: a place to slow down where neighbors reconnect, families unplug, and joy is experienced in its simplest form. It is not just about entertainment, but about belonging. For Board member and State Representative Devan Seabaugh, the annual tradition is about what the gathering represents. "I have always believed leadership means making practical decisions that put people first... protecting the quality of life we value in our community," Seabaugh notes. This year, putting people first means expanding the fair's footprint as a permanent community asset. Following a landmark $200,000 board contribution to upgrade the Jim R. Miller Park fairgrounds, Seabaugh is especially eager for this season's patriotic theme, "Fair Nights Under Stars and Stripes." The event serves as a classic slice of Americana that reinforces the regional quality of life, combining beloved traditions with reinvestment into community including $655,000 in scholarships, numerous grants, and local investments.
“For families, the fair offers even more unexpected moments of wonder. The Ready Go Dog Show features world champion Frisbee dogs, diving dogs, and high-jump canine athletes who turn agility into entertainment.”
As the fair returns this fall, it signals more than the change of season. It marks a return to tradition, togetherness, and the shared experiences that define community. For children, it is wonder. For families, it is tradition. For the community, it is connection. And for everyone who walks through its gates, the North Georgia State Fair becomes part of a larger story - one filled with light, laughter, and memories that linger long after the rides stop spinning.
ARTICLE BY BRANDON GUNTOR
RAISING FINANCIALLY RESILIENT FAMILIES
A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO BUILDING WEALTH ACROSS GENERATIONS
For many families, raising children is among life’s most meaningful - and financially significant - commitments. For parents and grandparents in their peak earning years, the question is no longer simply how to save, but how to do so in a way that aligns with long-term goals, values, and a broader vision for family wealth.
Today’s families often find themselves balancing multiple priorities at once: funding education, preparing for retirement, protecting what they’ve built, and instilling healthy financial habits in the next generation. Thoughtful planning across these areas can help create both opportunity and stability for years to come.
Start Early: The Power of Purpose-Driven Saving
One of the most impactful steps families can take is to begin saving early, and with intention. Vehicles like 529 college savings plans are designed specifically to help families prepare for future education expenses. Contributions grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals used for qualifying education costs are generally tax-free. For families planning for multiple children or grandchildren, these plans can be an efficient cornerstone of an education strategy.
Importantly, 529 plans now offer more flexibility than many realize. They can often be used for certain K-12 tuition expenses
and, in some cases, can be transferred between family members if education plans change. For grandparents, these plans can also serve as a meaningful way to contribute to a child’s future while maintaining control over the assets.
IRAs for Children: Small Steps, Long-Term Impact
While retirement accounts may not immediately come to mind when thinking about children, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) - particularly Roth IRAs - can be powerful tools when started early.
If a child or teenager has earned income, even from part-time or summer work, they may be eligible to contribute to an IRA. Because Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars, qualified withdrawals later in life can be tax-free. Starting early allows these contributions decades to grow, often turning relatively modest amounts into meaningful long-term assets through compounded growth.
For parents and grandparents, supporting or matching a child’s contributions can be a practical way to encourage savings behavior. It also introduces financial concepts - earned income, investing, and long-term planning - in a tangible way.
"WE FOCUS ON INTEGRATING SECURITY, PROSPERITY, AND LEGACY. WE HELP PROTECT WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT, CREATE ENDURING WEALTH, AND MAXIMIZE MULTI-GENERATIONAL IMPACT"
- BRANDON GUNTOR, CFP®, CLU®
Balancing Growth and Protection
As families accumulate wealth, preserving it becomes as important as growing it. This is where integrating risk management into a broader financial plan is essential.
Insurance-based solutions, including permanent life insurance, disability, and long-term care considerations - are protective tools, but they can also play a strategic role in a holistic wealth plan. For example, permanent life insurance may help provide income replacement, support estate planning objectives, or create liquidity for future generations. Similarly, disability coverage helps protect earning power during working years, which is often a household’s most valuable asset.
For families with children or dependents, these protections help safeguard against disruptions that could otherwise impact education plans, lifestyle, or long-term goals.
Aligning Education, Retirement, and Legacy Goals
A common challenge for affluent families is managing competing priorities: funding children’s education while maintaining progress toward retirement and considering legacy goals.
A thoughtful approach often begins with clarity. Education funding, while important, typically should not come at the expense of retirement readiness. Students and families have access to various education funding options, but there are fewer avenues to replace retirement savings.
This doesn’t mean choosing one goal over another, it means structuring a plan where each objective is addressed in balance. For some families, this may include a combination of 529 savings, taxable investment accounts, and selective gifting strategies that support both education and wealth transfer goals.
Teaching Financial Confidence at Home
Beyond the numbers, one of the most valuable investments families can make is in financial education. Children often absorb financial behaviors long before they fully understand them. Involving them in age-appropriate conversations, whether about saving for a goal, contributing to a charitable cause, or managing a first paycheck, can help build confidence and responsibility.
Even small actions, like encouraging a child to set aside part of their earnings or contributing to a long-term account in their name, reinforce the idea that wealth is built gradually and thoughtfully.
A Family-Centered Approach to Wealth
Ultimately, building wealth across generations is about more than accounts or strategies. It’s about creating a framework that supports your family’s values, protects against uncertainty, and provides opportunities for those who follow.
For parents and grandparents navigating these decisions, a coordinated approach, one that integrates savings strategies like 529 plans and IRAs with risk management and long-term planning, is often most effective when done in partnership with a trusted financial advisor. An advisor can help tailor strategies to your family’s specific goals, navigate changing regulations, and ensure each piece of your plan is working together cohesively.
As your family evolves, so too should your strategy. Thoughtful planning today, guided by experienced advice, can help ensure that the next generation is not only supported, but prepared. Brandon Guntor is a Wealth Management Advisor contracted with Northwestern Mutual. For more information, including disclosures, please visit http://www.brandonguntor.com/
This information is for educational purposes only, please consult with the appropriate professional for advice specific to your circumstances. The primary purpose of permanent life insurance is to provide a death benefit. Using permanent life insurance accumulated value to supplement retirement income will reduce the death benefit and may affect other aspects of the policy.
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF CREATIVITY!
MARIETTA ART IN THE PARK TRANSFORMS MARIETTA SQUARE LABOR DAY WEEKEND
This Labor Day, the Historic Marietta Square will transform into a vibrant open-air gallery as Marietta Art in the Park celebrates a remarkable milestone - its 40th anniversary.
From Saturday, September 5 through Monday, September 7, Glover Park and the surrounding streets welcome one of Georgia’s most beloved cultural traditions - marking four decades of fine art, community connection, and creative expression in the heart of Cobb County.
ARTICLE BY EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIETTA ART IN THE PARK
Presented by the Marietta Business Association with support from community partners, Marietta Art in the Park has become a signature event for the region and a long-standing Labor Day weekend tradition. Recognized by Sunshine Artist Magazine and other industry organizations, the festival draws an estimated 55,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most anticipated cultural gatherings in North Georgia.
At the center of the celebration is the jewelry Artist Market, featuring 200 artists from across the country. Visitors can explore an exceptional range of handcrafted works including painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, graphic arts, and mixed media. With offerings at a wide range of price points, the market invites both seasoned collectors and casual art lovers to discover something meaningful. “Reaching our 40th anniversary is both a celebration and a reflection of what makes Marietta so special. Our Historic Square provides the perfect backdrop for some of the nation’s most talented artists, creating an experience that is uniquely Marietta. We are incredibly proud of this milestone and look forward to welcoming our community and visitors alike to celebrate art, tradition, and the spirit that has defined this festival for four decades," says Carolyn Morris, Festival Director.
One of the festival’s defining features is the opportunity to meet the artists themselves. Throughout the weekend, creators remain on-site, offering live demonstrations and personal conversations that bring deeper understanding to their work and creative process. For this 40th anniversary year, a special Artist Showcase will highlight additional standout talent, adding even more depth to the curated experience.
Beyond the jewelry art, creativity extends into every corner of the Square. Chalk Spot returns as a beloved interactive tradition, transforming a closed street into a colorful canvas of imagination. For a $10 participation fee, young artists receive a designated square, sidewalk chalk, and the opportunity to create a personal masterpiece that remains on display throughout the weekend, weather permitting. Proceeds benefit the Marietta High School Visual Arts Program and participants also receive tickets to the North Georgia State Fair while supplies last.
Families will also find a dedicated space for younger attendees in Children’s Art Alley, filled with hands-on art activities, crafts, and games designed to inspire creativity. Many offerings are free, while select activities such as face painting and sand art are available for a nominal fee. Throughout the weekend, live music fills the Square as singer-songwriters perform in the iconic gazebo. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs, relax under the trees, and enjoy free performances.
Dining is also part of the experience. Rather than traditional festival fare, visitors can enjoy the wide selection of locally owned restaurants surrounding the Square, offering everything from casual bites to full-service dining with both indoor and outdoor seating. Beer, wine, soft drinks, and water are also available throughout the festival footprint.
While art remains the focus, the setting is equally compelling. Guests are invited to explore Marietta’s historic downtown, with its boutiques, galleries, museums, and self-guided walking tours that showcase the city’s character and charm. Free and open to the public, Marietta Art in the Park runs daily from 10am to 5pm and continues to reflect its mission: to showcase fine art, support local businesses, and create meaningful economic and cultural impact in the historic Square. artparkmarietta.com/
Best Friends
Local families share what is special about their four-legged companions.
ARTICLE BY EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYKMAN, SALIMI, IVES, AND BRAWNER FAMILIES
Trevor
Half Papillon and Half Border Collie
THE RYKMAN FAMILY ALLSTATE INSURANCE RYKMAN AGENCY
Presenting Trevor, a vibrant one-year-old. Trevor brings boundless energy and uncanny intelligence to his family, greeting his favorite humans by sprinting at full speed and leaping straight into their arms. He is remarkably sharp and understands English, effortlessly picking up on new commands. When it’s time to play, his favorite pastime is fetch. Trevor is an adventure. If he could jet off anywhere, he'd choose a Wyoming horse farm so he could chase other animals for fun! Afterward, he'd unwind for 30 minutes with his favorite treat - a "pig ear." Above all, Trevor has taught the Rykman family that no matter how rough your day has been, a big pet hug makes everything better.
Jetti
Golden Retriever & Australian Cattle Dog Mix
THE SALIMI FAMILY
THE AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS GROUP
Meet Jetti, almost two years old, a lively pup who truly completes the Salimi family. Adopted on a whim when Dad snuck away to the shelter without telling Mom - a classic "cool dad" move! Jetti was the only dog not barking and, after being returned twice by previous owners, she finally found her forever happily-ever-after home.
A high-energy sweetheart, Jetti's ultimate superpower would be super-speed under the moniker "The Jetterator." When she gets the zoomies, she hilariously wiggles all over the carpet. If she could talk, she’d constantly yell "Can we play?!". Whether sprinting at the dog park or hanging out with her office bud, Dudeson. She's a major foodie who loves snacking on apples, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt. When she isn’t bursting with energy, Jetti is a deep comfort, instinctively laying on laps and giving kisses if someone is sad. Caring for her has taught the family plenty about responsibility, from daily walks to teeth brushing.
Lindsey Rykman and Trevor
"JuJu" Salimi and Jetti (right)
Pebbles
Purebred Silver Labrador Retriever
THE IVES FAMILY CUSTOM DWELLINGS
Meet Pebbles, a 6-year-old, 95-pound purebred Silver Labrador Retriever! This rare, velvet-eared beauty loves playing backyard fetch, chewing "elk antlers", and dreaming of her favorite spot - North Captiva Island Beach. Pebbles serves as a gentle "office dog" greeting clients and her beloved UPS driver who brings her treats. Her silliest habit is carrying a single piece of kibble to the living room and sitting on an ottoman before returning to the kitchen to finish her meal. As a fiercely loving companion, what we've learned from Pebbles is not to walk through the house at night with lights off. Mom startled her back in March and fractured her tibia!
Chipper and Dansby
Goldendoodles
THE BRAWNER FAMILY BRAWNER RENOVATIONS
Say hello to Chipper who is almost 8 and Dansby who is turning 5. The two are brothers and have the same father named Max. Chipper is all about food and drink. When thirsty, he jumps to push the refrigerator door water dispenser and stands by the laundry suite door and remains patiently until his human fetches him a treat. Dansby literally sits all day monitoring for chipmunks and squirrels. If he could, Dansby would chase them down to play. Actually his super power would be flying in the air so he could catch and play faster!
If Chipper could go anywhere - well - he'd root on his hometown heroes - the Atlanta Braves. And Dansby...he'd head to the zoo to chase and play with the animals. Chipper is truly like a human - he picks up on social cues better than we do, which has helped us to be better aware of others. Dansbywell - he's just happy to be here - loves humans and has helped us to simply enjoy life and the things that really matter.
The Brawner Family, Chipper and Dansby
Stephanie & Robert Ives GA Tech's "Parents with Pups"
SUMMER ROADS, SAFER FAMILIES
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH FRANCIS
SIMPLE AND SMART HABITS FOR KIDS AND PETS
August in Georgia carries a specific kind of magic. The final stretch of summer lingers into warm evenings and local parks - from Swift Cantrell Park to the walking trails along the Chattahoochee - are full of life. Neighborhood spaces are active with pedestrian traffic - children on bikes, families pushing strollers, and dogs chasing tennis balls.
But this seasonal energy also demands greater awareness behind the wheel. As our community gets busier, our driving habits must become more intentional.
Whether navigating a crowded parking lot or heading out on a road trip, protecting your backseat crew - two-legged and fourlegged alike - comes down to a few life-saving habits.
THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT: WHY “JUST A MINUTE” IS TOO LONG
We’ve all been there: a sleeping toddler in the back seat, a dog resting comfortably, and a quick errand that feels harmless.
The reality is that parked vehicles heat up with alarming speed. Sunlight enters through glass, warms interior surfaces, and becomes trapped inside, causing temperatures to rise rapidly.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a vehicle’s interior can increase by about 20°F in just 10 minutes. On an 80°F day, that can push interior temperatures past 100°F in under fifteen minutes. Cracked windows offer little protection.
Because children’s bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults and dogs cool only by panting, what feels like a brief stop can quickly become a life-threatening emergency.
Another tip, before you back out of the driveway to join the summer crowds, check for Burn Zones - ensure blazing hot seatbelt clips won't burn sensitive skin or paws. Secure loose metal water bottles that could become airborne, turn on your window locks, and take a deep breath.
It’s also important to remember that many child and pet injuries happen at low speeds in driveways and parking lots. Before reversing, take a full walk around your vehicle to ensure no children, pets, toys, or bicycles are in blind spots.
BACKSEAT PHYSICS: THE 1-INCH RULE
While heat dominates August safety concerns, proper restraint use is a year-round necessity. Federal data shows nearly 46% of car seats are installed incorrectly.
To help address this, local advocates are stepping in. Jamie Salimi, Co-Founder and Partner, at The Auto Accident Attorneys Group in Marietta leads a community child safety initiative focused on post-accident car seat replacement.
“As a mother and an attorney, car safety isn’t just professional for me - it’s deeply personal,” says Jamie. “Properly securing a child in a correctly installed car seat is one of the most effective protections against injury. A few extra minutes checking straps can make all the difference.”
A simple guideline: the Shake Test. Once installed, the car seat should not move more than one inch in any direction. Also ensure no excess webbing can be pinched at the child’s collarbone.
Protecting Our Four-Legged Passengers
Pets face similar risks in transit. An unrestrained dog can become a dangerous projectile during sudden stops. A 60-pound dog in a 35 mph crash can generate over 2,000 pounds of force— endangering both the animal and everyone in the vehicle.
We asked Dr. Taylour Welborn, Founder of Providence Veterinary Clinic in Marietta, how families can better protect their pets on the road.
“Our pets give us their whole hearts, and it’s our job to protect theirs,” says Dr. Welborn. “We see the consequences of both heat stress and unrestrained travel injuries every summer. I recommend being cautious outside with your dogs when it is over 85 degrees. Dogs don’t sweat so they can easily over heat which can lead to a dangerous condition called heat stroke. When riding in the car, I recommend a harness or a secured crate to prevent injury in the event of a crash.“
ROAD TRIP READINESS
For families squeezing in one last summer getaway, preparation is key. Keep children and pets hydrated, plan regular rest stops, and secure all luggage before departure. Even small objects can become dangerous projectiles in a sudden stop.
TEEN DRIVERS AND BACK-TO-SCHOOL TRAFFIC
As summer winds down, August also brings school traffic, student drivers, buses, and busy pickup lines. With routines shifting, this is a key moment to reinforce safe driving habits with teen drivers. Remind young drivers to avoid phone use, obey school-zone speed limits, and stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing guards. These simple habits are critical during one of the busiest driving periods of the year.
By staying deliberate behind the wheel, we can help keep our streets, parks, and families safe through the final stretch of summer and into the new school year.
Between soccer practice and the dog's walk, who is checking on Dad? Life is busy, and your schedule is full. Let 2nd Family help lighten the load. We provide compassionate, professional in-home care for the parent or grandparent who once took care of you. Whether they need companionship, help with daily tasks, or extra support to remain safely at home, our trusted caregivers are there when you can't be. Because your loved one deserves exceptional care, and you deserve peace of mind.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
ATLANTA'S NEWEST SPORTS POWERHOUSE
How a Roswell youth rowing club quietly became one of the nation’s best
For years, Atlanta has built a reputation as a powerhouse sports city. Friday night football lights up fields around town, baseball diamonds stay busy all summer long and soccer, basketball, and lacrosse continue producing incredible athletes. But now there’s another sport making waves… and quite literally doing it on the Chattahoochee River.
Atlanta is officially on the rowing map!
Based in Roswell, the Atlanta Junior Rowing Association (AJRA) has quietly been building something remarkable. Training more than 150 athletes from middle school through high school, the program has grown into one of the nation’s premier youth rowing clubs. This season, they reached a milestone: a Top 10 national finish and qualifying five boats to compete at the USRowing Youth National Championships in Sarasota.
Against some of the fastest youth crews in the nation - and athletes who will eventually compete on the world stage - AJRA delivered one of the strongest performances in program history. Highlights
included the Men's Varsity 8+ finishing 7th nationally, Women's Second Varsity 8+ earning another Top 5 finish, Men's U17 Four+ placing 8th, Men's Second Varsity A 8+ earning a Top 10 finish, Men's Second Varsity B 8+ (racing up a class!) and Women's Varsity 8+ delivering Top 25 finishes.
But ask AJRA families or Men's Head Coach Zach Smarr, and they'll tell you the medals aren't the whole story. “What AJRA has built is a culture,” he says.
Athletes often begin in middle school and progress through developmental and novice squads before earning a varsity seat. Success is visible, and so is the work behind it.“ Rowing may be the ultimate team sport. Every seat is earned. Every stroke matters. Every athlete depends on the people beside them,” says Women's Head Coach Maddux Castle.
Atlanta may not traditionally be known for rowing, but AJRA has quickly changed this. Proving greatness doesn't just happen under stadium lights; it's happening on the Chattahoochee River too, one stroke at a time.
ARTICLE BY VALERIE SHEPHERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY ESTROFF
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It is our privilege to continue to create meaningful designs that celebrate your stories, milestones, and memories.
