Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“We’re honored that Sterling Estates of East Cobb was Voted Best Assisted Living Community in My East Cobb and that Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized “Best of Cobb” for Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. We’ve been serving Seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now... We invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don’t have the wellness center, green space, programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents period. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... bet yours will too.” ~ Susan S.
With Home Prices so High - Never Been a Better Time to Sell & Move into One of Our Sought After Rental Cottages
Welcome Summer!
I hope this letter finds you laying by the pool or lake and soaking in some much-needed vitamin D or perhaps headed out on a super cool adventure. This time of year is always emotional for me. I'm reminded that life has gotten busier. Days, weeks and years seem to fly by. But the warm weather, gorgeous blooms, adventurous travel, and the sound of children playing help me slow down. I'm reminded that life moves pretty fast, and if we don't stop and look around now and again, we're gonna miss out!
The Fourth of July is our team's favorite holiday. We love celebrating our country’s birthday and rich history with colors red, white, and blue found throughout our communities - store fronts, beautiful parks, front stoops, sporting events and favorite dining spots.
Patriotism! That is what the Fourth of July means to me—Old Glory and plenty of red, white and blue. We pay tribute to our past and present soldiers and our first responders who deserve so much gratitude and honor for their service to our country and communities.
We hope you'll promise to leave some time to explore, visit new places and try new things. Our county and cities have so much to offer, whether a staycation or a roadtrip - let's all get lost in a new experience. Unstructured and spontaneous adventures often are the best for making connections, nurturing friendships and building trust.
Our hope is this issue encourages you to make room for exploration, prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life, lose yourself on a trail or at a worldclass performance, plan that trip you’ve been thinking about and make time for the things that matter most to you but often come last on the calendar.
Remember to support our local partners, who are intertwined throughout these pages. We are grateful for their partnership and the love they have for our cities and communities as they have a huge impact in bringing our monthly publication to your coffee tables.
Cheers, Lisa
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com
Tran Bui Productions, Matt Hernandez, Danny Garrett, Kaley Lackey, Paradigm Film
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
LISA THIBAULT, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club Member of the Year Melissa Nicol! Well deserved! 2: Atlanta Braves Associates celebrate Marietta Business Association's inaugural Networking & Business Expo at Truist Park 3: Christy Scott Spearman and Kate Duffy, Duffy Scott Interiors with Zach Brown's John Driskell Hopkins 4: East Cobb Businesses Owners NY Butcher Shoppe, Mojo Vitality, BODY20 and Smallcakes-Graze Craze
5: Angela Boardman and Susan Fulkerson of CPWC celebrate $5,000 donation to PORCH Marietta's Liz Platner 6: Celebrating The Circle for Children incoming Executive Board 7: Edward Phillips and Katie Manson, City of Refuse and Kristen Harbison Circle for Children President
CHATTAHOOCHEE PLANTAIN WOMEN'S CLUB THE CIRCLE OF CHILDREN
EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE
COBB COUNTY SCHOOLS
business monthly
Congratulation Graduates! Marietta High School's 2024 MPOWER Program.
Marietta High School and Apto Solutions—with Blue Star Recyclers and Parallel International Consulting— teamed up to provide job training for students with disabilities. With input from industry experts, this cutting-edge lab equips students with skills they would not normally receive in the classroom.
The Apto/MPower Learning program helps students transition into post-secondary life after high school and provides the soft skills they need for lifelong employment.
"We are thrilled to provide our students with real-world experience and job training," said Superintendent Dr. Grant Rivera.
Photography by Marietta High School
A Community Tradition2024 Taste of East Cobb
This year's Taste of East Cobb marked milestones including host the largest number of restaurants and businesses and final performance of Dodgen Band Director John Jeffries who retired after 29 years. Fun included interactive Kids Zone, entertainment by Walton and Wheeler High Schools and Dickerson and Dodgen Middle Schools and Best of East Cobb-Marietta companies and eateries. East Cobb City Lifestyle earned Favorite Overall booth - THANK YOU! EC Co-Chair-Julia Rohan, Elissa MareleSocial Media.
Tunnel to Towers Foundation Coming to Cobb Serving Atlanta
Tunnel to Towers Foundation targeted Cobb County as its next location to help eradicate veteran homelessness. Transforming the former Wingate by Wyndham into permanent and transitional housing, the nonprofit held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new “Atlanta Veterans Village” in May. When completed in 2025, the location at 65 S. Service Road, Mableton will provide permanent and transitional housing to an estimated 100 veterans. In 2023, the Foundation provided housing and services to 3,000+ veterans.
EAST COBB’S INJURY FIRM
Congratulations Cobb Community Foundation and CommunityYou've Done Good!
Cobb Community Foundation gathered with fundholders, donors, Corporate Champions, nonprofit partners and key stakeholders to celebrate the collective impact made that began over 30 years ago. Since becoming independent in 2005, with the communities help, CCF has distributed over $23 million in grants and scholarships.
The Foundation's new strategic plan "Active Good" outlines how the Foundation will solidify its role as a community catalyst, sparking meaningful improvements to quality of life through mobilizing people-ideas-resources.
Photography by Cobb County Foundation
ROSWELL
JOHNSON FERRY
Celebrating The Class of 2024! #ThisisCobb
Congratulations to an amazing Class of 2024! Cobb families, educators and the entire school community watched over 8,400 students graduate. A record-setting $154 million dollars in scholarships was earned. This success reminds us of the invaluable role of Cobb educators who remain diligent in providing world-class education, perseverance, dedication, spirit and unwavering commitment to our students. Cobb County is the best place to teach, lead, and learn. Our community makes it so!
Welcome Blooms + Co. to East Cobb!
Owner and Co-Founder Christine followed her passion and proudly announced the opening of Bloom + Co. in the heart of East Cobb. Serving East Cobb-Marietta, Roswell, Woodstock, Sandy Springs and more, this locally-owned florist specializes in rustic, elegant and garden-style designs, which are quickly becoming preferred elements at private gatherings and corporate events. The team prides itself on being friendly to our planet through using sustainable/recyclable materials where possible. blooms-co.com 770-765-6234
NOT JUST A BUTCHER SHOPPE
We
with
PRESERVING A LEGACY
ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI
When the Georgia Broncos Club learned about Phillip “Paw Paw” Brown’s 1969 Bronco, they knew they had to help. Paw Paw had dreamed of refurbishing his beloved vehicle, but his passing left the project unfinished. Moved by this story, volunteers and donors united to make his dream a reality.
Project Paw Paw Brown started in July 2022 and the restored vehicle was revealed in April 2024 during a special celebration at Deep Roots Wine Market and Tasting Room in Roswell.
When the cover came off the Bronco, daughter Kymberly Matthews was overwhelmed. "I was so happy that Daddy’s dream had finally come to fruition," she said. "The new look was a perfect blend of rugged and vintage, keeping his spirit alive."
“When I saw it, I envisioned my Paw Paw in the front seat smiling,” shared granddaughter Kylie Elliott. “It felt like a part of him was with me again!”
CONTINUED >
“Paw Paw was a dedicated Boy Scouts troop master and I will always cherish the times we spent together on camping trips,” said grandson Zack Smith. “To see the Bronco restored, especially in a way he always wanted, means the world to me and my family.”
Georgia Broncos founder Brian LaFluer said that seeing the family’s reaction made all the efforts worthwhile. “This was our first time doing a community build. It was a humbling experience,” admitted LaFluer. “We had 42 volunteers, 900 work hours and over $12,000 in donations.”
“This was a complete frame-off restoration to ensure the family received a safe and reliable Bronco,” added lead builder Gabe Donnelson from Strange Klassics Garage. "We knew it was an important piece of Mr. Brown’s legacy. We wanted to honor his vision.”
"This project was challenging, but incredibly rewarding," volunteer Chad Blotske shared. "It brought the community together. I gained new friends and family.”
Volunteer Troy White was inspired to join the project with his son Parker. "No matter how many hours it took or how hard it would be, the family needed this connection to their Paw Paw. It was truly incredible to give back."
Volunteers discovered some of Paw Paw’s personal belongings in the tailgate.
“When we first saw the Bronco out in the field it was like a time capsule. We repainted the toolbox, cleaned up the tools, and conditioned his gloves,” shared Erin Donnelson, co-owner of Strange Klassics Garage. “The finishing touch was to have the volunteers sign the toolbox."
Wishing you and your family a wonderful July 4th holiday
*Showroom by Appointment* We truly care about our clients and community. We are committed to providing an exceptional client experience and offer a warranty unique to the industry providing 100% satisfaction.
“Hollywood of the South” Walk through
FROM THE MOUNTAINS, TO THE SWAMPS AND OVER TO THE COAST, GEORGIA PARKS’ NATURAL RESOURCES PROVIDE PERFECT BACKDROPS FOR SOME FAVORITE TELEVISION SHOWS AND FILMS.
As Georgia takes over the film industry and is touted the “Hollywood of the South,” it is the diverse natural beauty throughout the state that proves to be the star of the show.
We curated a list of some of our favorite movies and shows that feature our home state’s natural beauty on the big screen.
While visiting Georgia’s State Parks, you might encounter an all-too-familiar view or trail and recall these sites from your favorite binge-worthy television show or award-winning feature film.
Film buffs and explorers alike are invited to follow along through Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites to spot the film locations from their favorite on-screen experiences with the new Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Film Trail. Follow along below to see if you can spot them all and recreate some of your favorite scenes. GaStateParks.org
PANOLA MOUNTAIN STATE PARK
Netflix series: “Cobra Kai” starring Ralph Macchio Television Series: “The Vampire Diaries”
SWEETWATER CREEK STATE PARK
Movie: “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1”
Television Series: “The Walking Dead” Netflix series: “Cobra Kai”
TALLULAH GORGE STATE PARK
Movies: “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”
Movie: “Deliverance” starring Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, and Jon Voight
WORMSLOE STATE HISTORIC SITE
Television Miniseries: “Roots” starring LeVar Burton, Robert Reed, and many more
Movie: “The General's Daughter” starring John Travolta, Madeleine Stowe, and James Woods
Movie: “The Last Song” starring Miley Cyrus, Liam Hemsworth, Greg Kinnear
Movie: “Magic Mike XXL” starring Channing Tatum, Joe Manganiello
Wormsloe
Walking Dead
NEW ORLEANS CONTINUES TO DEFINE CULTURE IN AMERICA!
Our Present, Future, and Past.
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE
Preservation Hall; take a trip into the New Orleans Jazz legacy
Lowes Hotel Lobby
“There is so much to do when you are in town, plan wisely and remember: laissez les bons temps rouler.”
New Orleans has always been a place of extortionary energy. The culture of the city is persuasive; its adventure is ever-changing. Dominated by art and the city’s dynamic evolution, this visit was going to move the needle on my love affair with all the sights and sounds that New Orleans has to offer.
Having a home away from home when traveling is optimal; Loews, New Orleans offers the weary both respite and luxury. Beginning at my initial greeting by the hotel staff through to the exceptional service that I received while dining or, simply having a drink at the bar; Loews exceeded my every expectation. Poydras & Peters, an American Brasserie, named for the iconic New Orleans intersection on which the hotel is built, offers a glimpse into the history, relevance and cultural diversity of this great American City. Not to be missed while visiting this city that boasts over 2,500 dining establishments is Chef Donald Link’s Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant. Accolade laden, Herbsaint, is one of the best restaurants in the country and is helping to define dining in America. Check out The Chloe; an uptown boutique hotel housed in a renovated and refurbished mansion invoking the spirit and glamour of New Orleans. The café is fun and filled with everything you’d expect in a New Orleans eatery, where local flavor is not only in the food but everywhere. Café Du Monde invites all who visit to enjoy their classic beignets and chicory coffee,
complete with all the French Quarter has to offer. Just steps away is the French Market, an original Native American trading post-turned-indoor market for souvenirs and themed tchotchkies. My advice is to follow your nose – the city will certainly wake up all the senses as you stroll along the streets in this historic, ever-changing, eclectic city.
Lunch at The Country Club is not to be missed. Just remember that contemporary Creole cuisine isn’t the only spicy thing on the menu. Located in the artistic Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods of New Orleans, the art galleries, cafes and funky live music venues all add to the mix, and it is a refreshing sojourn from The French Quarter.
Art is alive and well in New Orleans and it continues to move and shape the future of this incredible city. From the technologically advanced Vue Orleans, located 34 stories above the hustle and bustle of daily life, to JAMNOLA, an immersive, funhouse exhibit that celebrates the incredible city’s more than colorful past; New Orleans really does have it all!
Art also helps to script the speed and trajectory of New Orleans' future. Not to be missed on any art tour of New Orleans is The Ogden Museum of Southern Art whose mission is simply “to broaden the knowledge, understanding, interpretation and appreciation of the visual arts and culture of the American South.” The Ogden, located in the Warehouse Arts District, boasts
CONTINUED >
the largest collection of Southern Art and is a poignant salute to all things that make the South such an integral part of our nation’s heritage. Its hyper-personalized approach to collecting art and its carefully curated arts program add to the understanding of fine art for all ages. Whether you have been before or are lovers of the city, everyone who visits needs to take in an evening of jazz music at Preservation Hall and a tour of one of the city’s many historical cemeteries. There is so much to do when you are in town, plan wisely and remember: laissez les bons temps rouler
ROAD TRIP IT!
If you want to journey through time on your way to your New Orleans adventure; I’d suggest a road trip. There is a lot to see along the way and I would be sure to stop in Montgomery, Alabama and visit The Legacy Sites. Comprised of The National Center for Peace and Justice, The Legacy Museum, and Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, these sites offer visitors a glimpse into American history, fostering hope for all. Overnight at one of the city’s charming bed and breakfasts, or opt to spend an evening at the city’s most exciting destination, The Trilogy Hotel.
BEST-EVER SUMMER STAYCATION!
ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES
TURN YOUR BACKYARD INTO AN OASIS WITH GEORGIA LUXURY POOLS
Born into the pool business, David Brown started working for his parent's company, Brown's Pools, when he was just 12 years old. By 15, he was running his own crews, and after 18 years of working in the industry after college, he decided to be the change he wanted to see in the pool industry. Thus, Georgia Luxury Pools was born.
How would David go on to set his pool business apart from the rest? Simple. The mission was “To Design, Renovate and "Build Better" pools while providing excellence in customer service, backed by over 20 years of experience in the pool industry," and that he does. Instead of pushing out the typical 100+ pools a year, David selects 10 to 12 pool projects each year. This allows him to be present on-site for the entire design and build. The state of Georgia doesn't require any licensing or certification to build a pool, so David took it upon himself to get nationally certified by the Pool and Hot Tub Association. As a Certified Builder Professional, a nationally recognized designation, David's dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction goes above and beyond.
For those looking to transform their backyards into a secluded paradise in time for next summer, David urges, "Start now if you want to swim next summer! The great thing about designing a backyard is we can design and prep now to break ground for the pool in January and hopefully have you swimming and entertaining for that graduation ceremony or your Memorial Day gathering."
To begin the pool building process, customers must have an up-to-date as-built land survey stamped and certified. This gives the pool designer an idea of the terrain they're working with and any rules or regulations of the municipality. Next, David will meet with the customer and through a series of questions, gain a feel for how the customer will use the pool: exercise, children, relaxation, entertainment or a mix of all four! After that, customers will receive a 3-D rendering of the pool and backyard along with a custom estimate for the job. For turnkey backyard resort-style designs, GLP will bring in their partner Patrick, owner of Southern Landscapes and Designs, to design the full backyard including hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, pavilions, fireplace/firepits, tree removal, retaining walls and more! This partnership of industry experts keeps the customer from having to manage the project and allows for a more seamless buildout. Once the design is solidified and the contract is signed, we will schedule time to meet the customer at the design center and select the finishes and color scheme for the pool and decking area. From there, the customer can sit back and relax while GLP does the rest of the heavy lifting. "We are knowledgeable in how to build and what is needed to be built based on the terrain and survey stipulations of the property. We are
also careful to ask the right questions to best create a space that brings our customer's backyard dream to life and brings life-long memories to their family," says Kimberly Shires of Georgia Luxury Pools.
Though the team usually defers to the customer regarding style, there are a few common trends that have popped up over the years to consider adding to your future pool. Trends range from clean and geometric designs to free-form pools. Tan ledges are still trending, and the GLP team says pools with fire bowls and fire & water combo bowls are popular requests. Spillover Spas are a staple with porcelain or marble for the coping and decking area to give the pool space a clean look and feel. In the rest of the backyard, the team has noticed requests for a pickleball court, putting greens and an entertainment area with a pavilion or pool house to include TV/ Stereo built-in packages.
To learn more about the ways you can add some luxury to your backyard, visit galuxurypools.com.
ATLANTA COUNTRY CLUB FULL YARD MAKEOVER
GLP recently transformed this home in Atlanta Country Club into a stunning outdoor vista.
The pool features a step entry, tanning ledge, exit bench, and a French Grey Mini Pebble interior with a hand-cast Abalone Shell finish, which makes the pool water sparkle like diamonds! The entire pool system and lights are automated with an app that the homeowners can control by phone. The backyard also has an outdoor kitchen/grilling area, a covered patio, tv and fireplace area, night-lighting, outdoor landscape speakers and putting green.
The
+ Tones Muscle.
+ Reduces Fat.
+ Improves Strength + Endurance.
+ Minimal Strain On Joints.
+ Corrects Muscular Imbalances. +
Burgers & Brews
THE BEST SPOTS TO GRAB THESE TWO DELICIOUS SUMMER STAPLES!
There's nothing like a summer evening shared over ice-cold beers and juicy burgers. Whether you're in Buckhead, Smyrna or East Cobb, there's a place for you and your family. Whitehall Tavern, Creatwood Tavern and Westfield Tavern welcome families with kids of all ages to indulge in a mouthwatering menu of burgers, beers and so much more. For those in East Cobb, Westfield Tavern is an excellent selection, with a game room, boutique wine selection, 16 beers on draft and a relaxing outdoor patio.
"Join us this summer to enjoy delicious meals on our cozy covered patio and create unforgettable memories with friends and family in a welcoming atmosphere." - Erik Tierny, Manager of Westfield Tavern
BURGERS
American Smash Burger - Westfield Tavern's most popular burger, and for good reason. It features two smashed ground beef patties cooked to juicy perfection; lettuce, tomato and onions for freshness; and melty American cheese stacked atop a signature savory burger sauce and nestled between a buttery brioche bun.
ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES
The Jam Burger - A close second to the American, this burger includes a hand-pressed ground beef patty topped with house-made bacon jam and pepper jack cheese. A dollop of mustard aioli brings tang and spice, and a lightly toasted brioche bun tops it off.
BREWS
Creature Comforts Tropicalia - The most popular beer in the state from Athens, GA. A juicy IPA with hop aromas of citrus and passionfruit.
Juicy Raptor - Originating from Atlanta-based Monday Night Brewing, this hazy IPA is bursting with notes of pineapple, mango, grapefruit and orange.
Cobb County comprises 21 remarkable cities, with East Cobb nestled on the county's eastern corner, bordered by Cherokee County, I-575 and I-75, Marietta, and the Chattahoochee River.
Since being named by Money Magazine as a " Best Places to Live in America” East Cobb has flourished. Known for its excellent public school districts, the high ranking schools and student success rates result from exceptional education practices, numerous accolades, diverse extracurricular offerings and community involvement.
Beyond education, East Cobb offers some of the best in natural beauty, convenient shopping, culinary expertise, quality healthcare and safe neighborhoods. With four stunning parks, access to the Chattahoochee River, plentiful shopping centers, chef-driven restaurants, some of Georgia's best hospitals, the proximity and value of these amenities make East Cobb a desirable place to call home. Additionally, located just 20 miles from downtown Atlanta, 30 minutes from the world’s busiest airport, and just an exit off most major highways, East Cobb is a desirable place to call home.
BUSINESS
Thanks to its location near some of the country's busiest highways and interstates, the metropolitan hub of Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, business is booming in Cobb County. It's home to Fortune 500 headquarters like The Home Depot and Genuine Parts, and other major corporations like Lockheed Martin, GE Power and Heidelberg USA. A culture of locally run franchises and small businesses has also taken root deep within the county. The highly lauded Cobb Chamber of Commerce is at the heart of this success.
"Businesses continue to select Cobb with our exceptional workforce pipelines to meet talent needs across industries," says Sharon Mason, President and CEO of the Cobb Chamber. "We’ve
"I feel lucky that I get to do life with my family in East Cobb. I chose to open a business here because it is a highly populated area with lots of opportunity."
- Janice Overbeck
helped more than 200 companies expand or locate to Cobb in the last 11 years, including many major headquarters, creating more than 46,000 high-quality jobs and fueling our local economy with more than $6.3 billion in private new investment.”
The chamber recently awarded the county's Top 25 Small Businesses of The Year to uplift those who have found success in Cobb. Three of those are located right here in East Cobb: Peachtree Hearing, The Music Studio Atlanta and Janice Overbeck Real Estate.
“We chose to open Peachtree Hearing in East Cobb because of the area's strong emphasis on family and community. The support from our local community and residents has been invaluable in helping us thrive and impact the lives of our patients," says Dr. Melissa Wilkoff of Peachtree Hearing.
EDUCATION
It's no secret that the backbone of Cobb's prosperous business community is the enriching education students receive in their formative years. Cobb's affluent residents and high levels of student preparedness have earned it the title of Georgia's most educated county, with 42% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. This has resulted in one of the lowest unemployment rates in metro Atlanta.
Time and time again, the Cobb County School System proves itself to be one of the best. According to 2023 scores, Cobb County tops most of the state in SAT, ACT and Milestone assessment scores. Cobb students graduated at the second-highest rate in Georgia, with a graduation rate of 87.7% and nearly $135 million in scholarships.
As superintendent Chris Ragsdale puts it, “Students and parents choose Cobb because of our schools. Businesses choose Cobb because of our schools. Graduates choose to stay and raise their families in Cobb because of our schools. Numbers tell us our schools are some of the best in the country; 800,000 people who choose to call Cobb home tell us the numbers are right.”
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
When it comes to pastimes, Cobb County has no shortage. The region is a mecca for professional sports, with two major league teams and an array of international and national sporting events. Soccer's Atlanta United and baseball's Atlanta Braves offer the exhilarating opportunity to get in on the action from two of Georgia's favorite teams.
Other spectacles include music and theater delivered by world-class entertainment venues like the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre and Kennesaw State University's Stillwell Theatre. Meanwhile, Marietta's quaint, historic venues like the Earl Smith Strand Theatre and the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre attract local and national talent to their respective stages.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Historic landmarks and rich culture are abundant in charming downtown Marietta, while natural beauty reigns in Kennesaw Mountain's forests and atop Lake Allatoona's waters. With endless local parks for all-day play and extracurriculars, land features like mountains, rivers and lakes for outdoor adventure, immersive art for discovery and exploration, and a safe, picturesque community to do it all, there's nowhere we'd rather call home than East Cobb.
“Students and parents choose Cobb because of our schools. Businesses choose Cobb because of our schools. Graduates choose to stay and raise their families in Cobb because of our schools.”
The Janice Overbeck Real Estate office.
MAKING DREAMS A REALITY
A premier cabinet, counter top and flooring company, passionately transforming and creating perfect kitchens, bathrooms and offices. With decades of experience, our talented team helps ensure unparalleled quality, time efficiency and solid budget management. Commitment to detail, distinctive designs and best-in-class service has led Kitchen Designs to experience monumental growth and success creating opportunity for continued innovation. One thing that has remained constant is the resolve of company founders to never lose focus on what matters most - our clients.
REMEMBERING OUR VETERANS
THE COBB VETERANS MEMORIAL FOUNDATION SEEKS TO HONOR 60,000 VETERANS WITH A NEW MEMORIAL
ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES
Cobb County is home to over 60,000 military veterans whose stories have gone largely untold until now. To shine a light on their immense sacrifices, the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation is building a towering tribute of a memorial.
The Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation is confident that Cobb County citizens know the cost of their freedom and wholeheartedly stand behind them and their mission of remembrance.
"Those residents who cherish our Country and the freedoms we hold dear should all feel a sense of purpose in supporting a Memorial that will be a place to
honor, to educate our children and youth on the importance of service to their community and Nation," says Donna C. Rowe, President and CEO of the Foundation.
The memorial will be a Cobb County Park where generations of all ages of the Cobb and North Metro area can come to celebrate the National and US Armed Forces holidays. The park will be adjacent to the Cobb Civic Center in Marietta and contain numerous honorary elements. "Honor Walls" will border one side, displaying the names of men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Services, past and present. The Veterans Memorial Foundation
2nd Lieutenant Bill McRae Helicopter Pilot in Vietnam
“I enjoyed my time in service and would do it again if they let me.” - Bill McRae, East Cobb Army Veteran
has plans to preserve each veteran's legacy through QR codes that can be scanned by park visitors.
On the other side of the park, six Service Branch Walls will share the history, seal and flag of each military branch. Finally, a POW/MIA meditation garden will rest at the back of the park. A granite podium emerging from the garden will fly the POW/MIA flag, surrounded by benches where deep thought and meditation are encouraged.
The Memorial Foundation began in 2015 when Cobb County Commissioner Chairman Tim Lee and County Manager
David Hankerson desired to honor Cobb's veterans. Commission Chairman Mike Boyce recognized the importance of uplifting the heroes who walk in our midst and moved the project forward.
Currently, in the first of three project phases, the Foundation hopes to complete the Memorial in time for Veterans Day 2026. Financial support from the community is imperative to complete the project because they must raise the funds required for each phase before contractors can be hired. Just $350,000 away from raising the $3.5 million needed to begin
phase one, the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation is asking all who cherish our country and freedoms to show up and show out in their support of the Memorial and fellow neighbors who risked it all so we might live at peace.
Cobb County Army veteran Bill McRae was a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army, where he served in Vietnam and later Ft. Benning. While in Vietnam, he flew for the 23rd Infantry Division and was a part of the largest Army Aviation operation of the Vietnam War. Bill wholeheartedly supports the Foundation and its mission.
“No Memorial can ever portray the suffering, sacrifice or heroism displayed in the past fields of military history. However, with the help of the thousands of residents of Cobb County, we at the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation will rededicate ourselves to the cause of honoring those who gave us our way of life and the freedom to enjoy it. The Cobb Veterans Memorial will be a shining symbol of our thanks and gratitude.” Donna C. Rowe, President & CEO, Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation
To show your support and honor those who have bravely fought and fallen in the line of duty, donate to the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation at cobbveteransmemorial.com.
"I enjoyed my time in service and would do it again if they let me." - Bill McRae, East Cobb Army Veteran
Rare secluded property along Fightingtown Creek, offering exceptional privacy and outdoor amenities. The extensive outdoor features include inviting fireplaces, a s’mores roasting firepit, and a charming kids’ playground. Inside, a tastefully renovated interior with 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, and a separate guest house provides ample space for family and guests. This one-of-a-kind property is ideal for those seeking a private sanctuary, a gathering place for loved ones, or a prime investment opportunity, embracing the beauty of nature and luxury living. offering endless possibilities for those who appreciate the best that nature and luxury living have to offer.
Summer Sippin'
ARTICLE BY REI KAISER
Our favorite 4th of July cocktail recipe! Have you ever seen such a patriotic cocktail?
This citrusy red, white and blue layered drink recipe is perfect for summer parties and backyard BBQs.
Layering ingredients in a specific order is necessary so they don’t bleed together. The pouring technique is critical....nice and slow please.
The white layer is lemonade and vodka. I suggest a lightly sweetened lemonade because the red and blue layers are very sweet.
The blue layer is Blue Curacao liqueur. Blue curacao is a citrus-flavored liquor, like triple sec.
For the vodka, any brand of unflavored vodka will do so use your favorite!
You want to be sure to use a tall glass, pint glass or fluted water glass.
This recipe makes 2 glasses.
ingredients:
• 2 oz grenadine
• 6 oz lemonade
• 3 oz vodka
• 2 oz blue curacao
directions:
Step 1. Pour 1 ounce of grenadine into each glass, fill with ice.
Step 2. Mix together the lemonade and vodka. Very slowly pour the lemonade into each glass.
Step 3. Hold the spoon upsidedown over the glass, SLOWLY pour blue curacao over to create the blue layer. Serve immediately.
Non-Alcoholic Option:
Make the above with no alcohol and blue Gatorade!
For more favorite summer sips, visit Capital Grille Dunwoody or Westfield Tavern East Cobb-Roswell.
