TRAVEL
SUMMER ESCAPES
ARTS + CULTURE
AMERICA CELEBRATES 250 YEARS
JULY 2026
ATLANTA’S TRUSTED DESTINATION FOR BRIDAL & DIAMONDS
Celebrating 50 Years of Fine Diamonds, Custom Design, and Exceptional Craftsman.
CUSTOM DESIGN | BRIDAL + DIAMONDS | COUTURE + FASHION | REPAIR + RESTORATION
Established in 1973, we have earned a reputation as Atlanta’s most distinguished jeweler. Family owned and operated, we are known for exceptional craftsmanship, timeless designs, and a deeply personal approach to fine jewelry.
For more than five decades, we’ve had the honor of being part of life’s most treasured moments for countless families. As we reflect on our journey, we are deeply grateful for the lasting relationships we have built and the trust that has been passed down from one generation to the next.
It is our privilege to continue to create meaningful designs that celebrate your stories, milestones, and memories.
Freedom to Explore
There’s something fitting about celebrating America’s 250th birthday during the height of summer. For generations, July has been a season of movement and memory-making - a time when families pack up the car, head for the beach, gather with neighbors under fireworks-filled skies, and explore the places that make our country so remarkable. Whether it's a cross-country adventure or a weekend getaway just a few hours from home, travel has always been woven into the American experience.
As our nation marks 250 years of independence, this issue celebrates both the spirit of exploration and the communities that continue to shape our story. Across the country and right here in our own backyard, cities, towns, and counties are planning meaningful celebrations that honor the people, places, and ideals that have connected Americans for generations.
Inside these pages, you'll discover inspiring summer escapes - from beloved beach destinations to unexpected towns and hidden gems that remind us that sometimes the best adventures are found where we least expect them. You'll also find stories that celebrate the people and places that enrich our communities every day.
We share a remarkable equestrian estate that embodies the beauty and lifestyle of North Georgia living, a meaningful feature highlighting veterans whose bonds of service were formed and continue long after their military careers end, and a reminder that sometimes the best destinations for treasured moments happen in our own backyard.
What ties these stories together is a common thread: appreciation. Appreciation for where we've been, where we're going, and the people who make the journey worthwhile. Two hundred and fifty years after our nation's founding, America remains a collection of unique communities, traditions, and experiences waiting to be discovered. Sometimes that discovery takes us across the country. Other times, it happens right here at home.
Wherever your summer leads, I hope this issue inspires you to explore with curiosity, celebrate with gratitude, and create memories with the people who matter most.
Happy Independence Day, happy travels, and happy summer!
July 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
Wendy Edwards, Karyn Slovin
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nikola Kratky, Justin Hadley Photography, Infinite Views, Brian Weaver Photography, Visit Marietta
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 Learn
d
r
p
u
Happy Father’s Day!
s
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Foundation supporter Venitia
Company,
for Humanity
Build 2:
Alex Culbertson, Au.D. and Melissa Wikoff, Au.D., CCC-A of Peachtree Hearing celebrate 10 years! 3: Jennifer Rust of Jennifer Rust Botanicals spreading beauty across Marietta and beyond with seasonal subscriptions! 4: Rachel Langelotti, Communications Manager for City Of Marietta and Brittney Gray, Executive Director Visit Marietta 5: Local resident Rabbi Shalom Lewis, respected spiritual leader, releases first book, “Faith Without the Leap". 6: Circle for Children's Susan Fulkerson and Mary Beth Wegener present City of Refuge with $120,000. 7: Publisher Kevin Kaseta visits with long-time friend Johnny Walker at
1: Cobb Community
Smith, Genuine Parts
Habitat
Women’s
Doctors
Marietta Business Association luncheon.
COBB COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
BRIAN WEAVER PHOTOGRAPHY
8: Circle for Children members gather in celebration of friendship and making a difference! 9: Publisher Kevin Kaseta with Owner and Head Winemaker Guy Davis, Davis Family Vineyards at Stage4Hope. 10: Painting Plus Owner Charlie Dallavalle awarded Hardie Alliance President's Cup, recognizing national excellence. 11: Marietta History Center awarded 2026 Preservation Award from Cobb Landmarks. Congratulations to associates and volunteers! 12: William "Bill" C. Gentry receives the Legion of Honor award from Kiwanis Club of Marietta. 13: Pebblebrook HS technical theatre student Mike Leon Martinez of CCCEPA magnet program awarded $10,000 scholarship. 14: CPWC Charity Co-Chairs Nina Hickox, Tong Suk present contribution to Sunshine on a Ranney Day.
Walton High School Foundation 2026-2027 Executive Board of Directors
Walton High School Foundation supports students and staff through funding for teacher positions, grants, scholarships, and campus improvements. Additionally, logistical support is provided for the Student Leadership Committee, Walton's Habitat for Humanity, and a variety of events for parents and students. In 2025–26, the Foundation raised over $180,000, including funding for 1.5 teacher positions not covered by county. Members: Sarah Embro, Ben Wright, Jennifer Armstrong, Jess Eaton, Tina Patel, Lauren Barden, Jenn Pila, Kelly Wilkins
of its Founder's Circle during the Bear Shadow Music Festival at Ferngrove in Highlands, North Carolina. The event marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership between Stage4Hope and Bear Shadow, uniting two organizations committed to making a positive impact. Together, they will help raise awareness and support for individuals facing Stage 4 cancer while fostering community through the power of music and shared purpose. stage4hope.org
Atlanta Falcons HBCU Fellows Program Welcomes Record 17 Students
The Atlanta Falcons and Wells Fargo announced the 2026 cohort of the Atlanta Falcons HBCU Fellows Program presented by Wells Fargo. The eightweek paid fellowship provides career pathways and hands-on experience for students from Clark Atlanta, Morehouse, Morris Brown, and Spelman colleges. Now in its fourth year, the program welcomes a record 17 Fellows, offering exposure to Atlanta’s music and entertainment industries while emphasizing community service. The experience launched with a Creative Currency session featuring Jermaine Dupri and a Habitat for Humanity build project.
Growing a LegacyA New Honor for McFarlane Park
McFarlane Nature Park has been accredited as an arboretum by ArbNet, the only global organization that officially recognizes arboreta, which reflects the park’s extensive tree collection, educational programs, and interpretive signage. Nearly every tree native to Georgia’s Piedmont region is represented, including over 14 species of oaks and longleaf pines. “Hopefully, visitors will become better acquainted with the trees that belong here and plant them more frequently,” says Cobb Land Trust Chair Karin Guzy. mcfarlanenaturepark.com
Dr. Suhasini Arun | Dr. Jason Mann
A C ELEBRATION OF FREEDOM, COMMUNITY & THE SPIRIT THAT STILL UNITES US
ARTICLE BY REI KEISER
AT 250 AMERICA
While fireworks will certainly light the skies, America’s 250th anniversary is about far more than spectacle. It is a moment to reflect on where we began, how far we have come, and the communities that continue shaping the nation’s story every day.
America’s journey officially began on July 4, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the 13 colonies’ separation from Great Britain. Guided by ideals of liberty, self-government, and opportunity, the young nation embarked on an extraordinary and often difficult journey that would shape history far beyond its borders.
Now, two and a half centuries later, the United States is preparing to celebrate a milestone few nations ever reach: 250 years of independence. From small-town parades and backyard cookouts to major events in Washington, D.C., the Semiquincentennial America’s 250th birthday - is expected to become one of the largest patriotic celebrations in modern history.
Right here in Cobb County and Marietta, celebrations are found close to home. Cobb County will host Cobb Celebrates 250 Years of Independence at Jim R. Miller Park featuring entertainment, family-friendly activities, food trucks, and a drone show. The Cobb County Public Library system has also launched America250-themed programming designed to engage residents of all ages. Families can participate in patriotic craft events like “Fun with Flags” in Powder Springs and “American Flag Collage” in Kennesaw, while poetry competitions, history workshops, and archaeology presentations encourage deeper reflection on America’s past and future.
The City of Marietta will host its Independence Eve celebration on July 3, 2026, on the historic Marietta Square, featuring a concert by Drivin N Cryin. On July 4, the city’s annual Fourth in the Park celebration will include the largest Let Freedom Ring Parade in its history, along with activities, concerts, and a grand fireworks display. "America’s 250th is a historic milestone, and Marietta is proud to join communities across the nation in recognizing the history and freedoms that have shaped our country. With many special events and programs planned throughout the year, we are honored to share this occasion with our citizens and all who visit our great city," shares Mayor of Marietta Steve Tumlin.
These local events reflect something deeply American: community connection. Across generations, neighbors continue gathering in libraries, parks, town squares, and festivals to celebrate shared traditions and civic pride.
That same spirit will echo nationwide throughout 2026. In Washington, D.C., America’s birthday will take center stage with yearlong celebrations across museums, monuments, cultural institutions, and public spaces. The National Mall is expected to host concerts, exhibitions, public art installations, and historic displays honoring both the nation’s founding ideals and its evolving story.
RIGHT HERE IN COBB COUNTY AND MARIETTA, CELEBRATIONS CAN ALREADY BE FOUND CLOSE TO HOME. COBB COUNTY WILL HOST
COBB CELEBRATES 250 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE AT JIM R. MILLER
PARK FEATURING ENTERTAINMENT, FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES, FOOD TRUCKS, AND A DRONE SHOW.
Museums and cultural centers throughout the capital are developing programming focused not only on the Revolutionary era, but also on the voices, movements, and milestones that have shaped America over the last 250 years. One especially meaningful initiative is “Language & Liberty” at Planet Word Museum, exploring how speeches, slogans, songs, and words have influenced the American experience — from Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me liberty” declaration to modern movements for equality and justice.
National organizers also hope the anniversary inspires Americans to travel, rediscover local history, and reconnect with iconic destinations across the country. Historical documents are even being transported to museums nationwide so communities outside Washington can experience rare pieces of America’s founding story firsthand.
And while America’s history has never been perfect or uncomplicated, perhaps that is exactly why the 250th anniversary matters. It offers an opportunity not only to celebrate freedom, but also to continue striving toward the ideals written into the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago. That balance between celebration and reflection is what makes this anniversary uniquely powerful.
For many families, the most meaningful moments of America250 will likely happen far from national stages - at neighborhood fireworks shows, local festivals, baseball games, front porch flag displays, and summer gatherings with family and friends. Those traditions remain the heartbeat of American life.
In communities like Marietta and throughout Cobb County, patriotism often looks less like headlines and more like volunteerism, local arts programs, service projects, and neighbors showing up for one another. That sense of community may be one of the most enduring parts of the American story.
As the country prepares to mark 250 years of independence, the celebration serves as both a tribute to history and an invitation to imagine what comes next. From Washington, D.C., to hometown celebrations here in Georgia, America250 reminds us that the nation’s story is still being written - by all of us. And perhaps that is the greatest reason to celebrate.
visitmariettaga.com cobbcounty.gov/news/cobb-celebrates -nations-birthday
UNEXPECTED Summer Escapes
BEYOND THE USUAL DESTINATIONS, SUMMER LINGERS IN UNEXPECTED PLACES WORTH DISCOVERING.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
Jason Tang, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, CA
Long summer days stretch time itself, inviting us to slow down and savor life more deeply. Moonlight over a quiet lake, wine at a century-old vineyard, or music drifting through historic streets; summer brings places fully to life. Still, it’s easy to default to familiar escapes like 30A, mountain cabins, or beach towns outside Atlanta. Yet, beyond America’s major cities are smaller towns rich in charm, history, food, and atmosphere that make you want to linger. When travel takes you to a big city, carve out time for a side trip. Some of America’s best experiences happen just outside the spotlight.
FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE
Residents like Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman and Carrie Underwood are all in on the secret that is Franklin. Just thirty minutes from Nashville, this charming town invites visitors to stroll historic Main Street with a cinnamon roll from Merridee’s Breadbasket or partake in a bourbon cocktail at Gray’s on Main. Later that night, try Chef Jason McConnell’s exquisite bacon wrapped Elk with blackberry mole or signature shrimp and grits at the ultra-sophisticated Red Pony Restaurant.
One of the South’s best-preserved Civil War towns, Franklin blends architectural history with a thriving live music scene fueled by its proximity to Nashville. Catch a show at the historic Franklin Theatre or spend the night at Dark Horse Recording, the famed recording studio retreat frequented by artists like Taylor Swift and Tim McGraw.
BAR HARBOR, MAINE
Boston may be the destination for your best friend’s wedding on the Cape, but the real magic begins when you add a few extra days and head north to Bar Harbor. This coastal gem offers pure Norman Rockwell Americana with lobster shacks, sailboats and sweeping ocean views alongside the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park.
Isaac Quick, Downtown Bar Harbor, ME
Brandon Jean, Downtown, Franklin, TN
Rise before dawn to catch the country’s first sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain or spend the afternoon chartering a fishing boat along the rugged coastline scanning the horizon for whales. If pure relaxation is on the docket, sip an espresso at Sunrise Cafe as you savor a lobster crepe. Summer comes fully alive during Bar Harbor’s Fourth of July celebration, complete with a parade, seafood tastings, craft fairs and fireworks over the harbor.
SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN
Peel off that tradeshow lanyard after a week in Chicago and head for the beach. Saugatuck offers water so crystal clear it rivals the Caribbean, minus the jellyfish and saltwater sting. Known as Michigan’s “Art Coast,” Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas are home to more than thirty art galleries along with beloved summer events like the Saugatuck and Village Square Art Festivals, where visitors can browse everything from paintings to sculptures and handcrafted jewelry.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the towering dunes of Saugatuck Dunes State Park provide a stunning backdrop for hiking adventures along Lake Michigan, while vintage Bronco dune tours offer a uniquely Midwestern thrill ride. After a day outdoors, settle into the romantic garden ambiance at Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions before ending the evening with a moody cocktail inside The Singapore Room, the town’s intimate speakeasy-style hideaway.
SAUSALITO, CA
Sausalito is a tucked-away coastal treasure just outside San Francisco that feels worlds away from the city’s pace yet and the perfect place to visit after your niece’s baby shower. Just ten minutes across the bay, this picturesque waterfront town looks as though it was plucked straight from the Mediterranean, with fountains, sculptures, hillside cafes and marina views reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast.
Stroll along the Sausalito Boardwalk to explore charming boutiques and waterfront restaurants before ending at the marina for postcard-worthy views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Nearby, Muir Woods National Monument offers the chance to stand among towering redwoods more than 1,200 years old, while Napa Valley is less than an hour away for an unforgettable afternoon of wine tasting and vineyard sunsets.
BISBEE, AZ
Tucson’s summers are best enjoyed indoors. So after that college visit that brought you to town, head up a mile high to the quirky mountain town of Bisbee. Once a 19th-century copper, gold, and silver mining hub, it has reinvented itself as an offbeat artists’ enclave filled with winding alleyways, staircases, and more than twenty galleries to explore. Balance the art with a descent into history with the Queen Mine Tour, where you ride an authentic cart deep underground to experience the town’s mining past, firsthand.
End the day with small plates at Cafe Roka, followed by a sweet stop at Pussycat Gelato. On your way back to Tucson, carve out time for a quick, unforgettable detour through Tombstone to round out the trip.
Whatever your summer plans may be, don’t overlook the hidden gems that can create the magical experiences you never saw coming just around the corner.
Jake Banasik, Lake Michigan Shore
THE BACKYARD ESCAPE
NO PASSPORT REQUIRED - DESIGNING A DESTINATION-WORTHY OUTDOOR OASIS.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
Emails, texts, social media, and the constant noise surrounding us can slowly wear us down. Our souls long for spaces where we can exhale, quiet the mind, and reconnect with the present moment alone or with the ones we love. Whimsical summer gatherings beneath ornamental trees and blooming flowers, paired with exceptional food can create the kind of memories that stay with us through our twilight years. With the right elements and your own personal touches, your backyard can become a serene escape that feels worlds away and a place designed for both effortless entertaining and peaceful moments of retreat.
Your landscaping is the frame around the masterpiece that is your backyard. Ornamental evergreens and thoughtfully layered shrubs create a beautiful boundary from the outside world, while a curated blend of flora comes together like a living work of art, inviting guests in. A dedicated gathering space such as a patio, pergola or free-standing cabana or gazebo can become a quiet sitting area to enjoy the frolicking birds or a lively place to entertain.
Many clients are drawn to backyard features that are flexible, technology-driven, and designed to enhance the natural beauty of their outdoor spaces. Landscape designers across Cobb say today’s outdoor living trends include motorized louvered roofs, smart-home integration, and earthy, organic hues that foster a connection to nature while delivering the modern comforts homeowners desire. Year after year, clients are placing greater value on shade trees, lush green spaces, putting greens, patios, fire and water features, and custom hardscapes that transform the backyard into a true extension of the home.
Your entertaining and relaxation space is also where the magic of memories are made, but beauty is just as important as comfort. This season’s outdoor furniture trends embrace a rich mix of materials including metal, wood, wicker and even concrete to create depth and visual interest. These textures
are softened by a neutral color palette reflected in cushions and throw pillows, while designers are increasingly incorporating black as a modern neutral to highlight warm wood tones and the green, natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The patio and surrounding area is the perfect home for oversized planters filled with ornamental grasses, sculpted evergreens and fragrant seasonal blooms like lavender that add both beauty and sensory appeal. Yet in 2026, outdoor spaces are becoming more than simply serene escapes. Edible arrangements, herb-filled containers and raised garden beds are redefining patios as places that are not only beautiful, but functional and nourishing as well.
Jennifer Rust, owner of Jennifer Rust Botanicals, in Marietta creates these containers of goodness for her clients and says optimizing the footprint of the container or the raised bed is the goal. “The biggest
thing for containers and beds for summer is to get your vegetable or fruit to grow vertically to maximize the real estate. In a raised bed we’ll put three different types of tomatoes and string them so that they grow upward along with vegetables such as cucumber so they can vine themselves up. We also combine them to make sure we have the right vegetables together. We’ll underplant the cucumbers and tomatoes with jalapenos on one side and basil on the other. Raspberries can also be grown vertically in a very tight space that gets a load of afternoon sun. I’m always amazed at how many berries this bush produces every year”, Jennifer remarks.
Your outdoor space is also an incredible way to enjoy the culinary delights from your garden or from your grill. Summer salads, grilled vegetables and the perfect cut of steak can elevate the experience for your guests, knowing that most of their dinner was homegrown. Pair your protein with a Mediterranean salad from your garden that includes your cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and basil. Top with feta and a Greek lemon vinaigrette for the most refreshing summer delight.
Jump on the trend and throw a themed patio party using your homegrown food as the inspiration. “Amalfi in America” or “Santorini Nights” can offer your guests a mixture of coastal blues, vibrant yellows and citrus motifs, punctuated by your amazing Mediterranean fare. Include a Limoncello Spritz bar and flatbread right from your grill to really impress. When the sun goes down
your guests can partake in a round of glow-in-thedark Bocce ball or croquet as the symphony of frogs and crickets signal that it’s time for a nightcap.
Whether your vision includes a flourishing vegetable garden, a sophisticated entertaining space or a peaceful retreat, a thoughtfully designed backyard has the power to enrich everyday life. This summer, consider stepping outside and creating a space that invites you to slow down, gather often and savor the beauty that has been waiting just beyond your back door.
For homeowners seeking trusted local experts for new builds or thoughtfully curated renovations, Georgia Luxury Pools and Southern Landscapes & Designs are valuable local resources, combining their expertise in creating backyards you’ve always dreamed of.
galuxurypools.com
southernlandscapesanddesign.com
Nikola Kratky, Jennifer Rust Botanicals
Beyond
THE CITY
EXTRAORDINARY EQUESTRIAN ESTATE
CAPTURES THE BEAUTY OF COMING HOME
ARTICLE BY REI KAISER
Just beyond the energy and growth of Milton and Canton, where winding roads give way to rolling pastures and wide-open spaces, there’s a quieter side of North Georgia living that feels increasingly rare. It is a lifestyle rooted in nature, connection, and intentional living - one where mornings begin with birdsong instead of traffic and evenings slow down beneath glowing barn lights and sunset skies.
Tucked among nine manicured acres off Old Lathemtown Road, a remarkable equestrian property captures that lifestyle perfectly. Perched high on a hill with sweeping views of pastures, arena, and barn, the estate reflects what has made the Milton and Canton corridor one of the most sought-after places to call home - the ability to live surrounded by beauty while remaining connected to vibrant communities, dining, schools, and culture.
For homeowner April Aryan, the connection to the property was immediate. “The moment I drove up to the property, I knew it was something special,” she shares. “The home sits high on a hill with such a dramatic presence and the views are absolutely breathtaking. I’ve always said that if you can’t live on the beach, this is the next best thing - it truly feels like my own little slice of heaven.”
That feeling is something many residents throughout Milton and Canton understand deeply. Both communities have become known for preserving green space, equestrian heritage, and a sense of rural sophistication that feels worlds away from the pace of city lifestyle. Horse farms, trails, and scenic landscapes are woven into the identity of the cities themselves coupled with a growing blend of charm, community events, outdoor recreation, and modern conveniences.
But what makes properties like this so special is not simply the acreage or architecture - it’s the lifestyle they create. From quiet mornings with coffee overlooking the pastures to evenings gathered near the barn with family and friends, life here naturally moves outdoors. The property became a backdrop for meaningful moments: children growing up surrounded by nature, horses grazing quietly in the distance, and weekends spent entertaining beneath expansive skies.
“Living here completely changed the pace and quality of my life,” Aryan shares. “This property became more than just a home - it became a sanctuary for my family, my friends, and myself.”
That idea of sanctuary feels increasingly valuable today. As North Atlanta continues to grow, communities like Milton and Canton offer a rare balance: proximity to opportunity without sacrificing peace and space. Residents can enjoy thriving town centers, restaurants, boutiques, and community events, then return home to quiet roads, open land, and uninterrupted sunsets, and for equestrian enthusiasts, the lifestyle is especially unique.
Horse properties throughout this area are not simply functional farms - many are thoughtfully designed gathering places where elegance and authenticity coexist. Aryan says that’s exactly what made this estate feel different from others she toured. “It’s not just a horse farm - it’s a home,” she explains. “Every inch of the nine manicured acres has been thoughtfully cared for with incredible attention to detail, creating a property that feels both elegant and welcoming.”
That attention to detail is evident not only in the manicured grounds and barn amenities, but in the atmosphere itself. There’s a calmness that settles over the property at dusk, when the arena softens in golden light and the barn begins to glow for the evening.
“One of my favorite moments here is at dusk, when the barn lights begin to glow and everything quietly settles for the evening,” Aryan says. “The horses are relaxed in their stalls, the arena has that soft golden light across it, and there’s this overwhelming sense of peace that’s hard to put into words.” It’s those moments - the quiet ones - that often define life in this corner of North Georgia. The ability to slow down. To gather. To breathe deeply. To create spaces where memories naturally unfold.
Over the years, Aryan transformed the property with what she describes as “love, hard work, and personal attention to detail,” creating not just a beautiful estate, but a deeply personal reflection of the life built there. As her family looks ahead to its next chapter, the stunning estate is now being offered for sale, giving another owner the opportunity to experience the lifestyle and memories created here. Leaving, she admits, is bittersweet.
“What I’ll miss most is the life that was created here,” she says. “Watching my children grow from little kids into young adults, hearing the horses softly nicker from the barn while sitting on the patio, and taking in the peaceful view that never stopped taking my breath away.”
In many ways, that sentiment captures the enduring appeal of Milton and Canton living itself. Beyond the stunning homes and acreage is something harder to define but easy to feel - a sense of grounded elegance, connection to the land, and appreciation for a slower, more meaningful pace of life. And in a fast-moving world, that may be the true luxury.
To explore this property, you're invited to call Laura Elleby 404-668-6621. lauraelleby.com
Marcus Jones, Etowah River Park
“ONE OF MY FAVORITE MOMENTS HERE IS AT DUSK, WHEN THE BARN LIGHTS BEGIN TO GLOW AND EVERYTHING QUIETLY SETTLES FOR THE EVENING.”
Bonyong Ku
MAINSAIL HIDEAWAY
Five friends, one charming cottage, and a long weekend of sun, laughter, and Gulf breezes
ARTICLE BY KARYN SLOVIN
Five great friends, sun-warmed days, and the soothing sounds of the Gulf created the perfect backdrop for a much-needed escape to the Gulf Coast. With a short stroll from the white sugar sand, the charming cottage at 54 Mailsail Drive offered the kind of coastal escape that instantly slows life down. When planning our girlfriends’ trip, we relied on Newman-Dailey Resort Properties to
help us find just the right spot for a relaxing long weekend filled with late-night laughter, impromptu antics, sunset cocktails, and the kind of easygoing fun.
With salty breezes drifting through the air and the sound of the waves never far away, the home called “Mainsail Hideaway” became the perfect gathering place. Days were spent soaking up the sun, enjoying long conversations over cocktails, and easing into the laid-back vibe that only a beach vacation can bring.
The property comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests and features six bedrooms and 5.5 baths. The main cottage featured a beautifully appointed primary suite and full bath on the main level, while upstairs offered another king guest suite, two additional generously sized guest bedrooms, each with its own private bath, along with an additional bunk room ideal for larger groups or families with children. Every space throughout the home felt light, airy, and effortlessly inviting, with soft coastal touches and a relaxed seaside charm.
Separated from the main cottage by a charming dipping pool, the private carriage house added an extra layer of comfort and flexibility to the property. Thoughtfully designed with its own coffee and bar station, mini refrigerator, comfortable large bed, and well-appointed bath,
the space created the perfect tucked-away retreat. Ideal for guests seeking a bit of additional privacy, but still kept them close to the heart of the home.
Although this trip was all about the girls, the property is ideal for multigenerational vacations or group getaways. The carriage house would especially appeal to grandparents traveling with family or for a couple with a little one. The separate space offers a quiet place to unwind at the end of the day while still allowing everyone to come together easily for beach days, dinners, and evenings spent around the pool.
As the long weekend came to a close, it was clear that “Mainsail Hideaway” at 54 Mainsail Drive offered far more than simply a beautiful place to stay. Between the relaxed coastal atmosphere, thoughtfully designed spaces, and the easy comfort of gathering together under one roof, the home created the perfect setting for reconnecting, unwinding, and making new memories with dear friends. From lounging by the dipping pool, sharing cocktails after sunset, and stories after a day on the white sugar shoreline, the home captured everything we hoped for in our girlfriend getaway. newmandailey.com
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
A premier cabinet, countertop, flooring and tile company, passionately transforming and creating perfect kitchens, bathrooms and exceptional spaces. 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 Group 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.
A BROTHERHOOD Built on the WATER
Veterans find healing, camaraderie and connection through their shared love of fly fishing.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
War is h*ll. The adrenaline rush that fills your ears and gives you super hero abilities dulls after battle and you are left with a mixture of relief, exhilaration, exhaustion and a guilty nausea that doesn’t leave. Battle after battle it builds. Like a stack of books, it builds higher and higher until, one day, a slight disturbance or a passing breeze in the auto parts aisle at Walmart, is enough to bring it all crashing down. This is PTSD and you don’t know when it might rear its head.
Up to thirty percent of veterans return home carrying the invisible wounds of war from tours in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. PTSD does not discriminate, affecting every race, gender, and background alike. Human beings were never meant to witness violence, endure trauma and emerge untouched. Yet, countless veterans are left fighting battles long after the war has ended, struggling with emotions no one is truly prepared to carry alone. For many, the weight of those experiences can lead to overwhelming isolation, heartbreak, and a profound sense of hopelessness.
No one knows this better than Rene, Dutch and Russell. Three men brought together by their love of country, the outdoors and fishing; they have seen what war can do to the best of men, but never believed there wasn’t a path to healing. But, they may have never met in life if it hadn’t been for the river. Water has a way of calming the mind while awakening emotion. It creates space to reflect, process, and let go of the weight we carry, washing away what no longer serves us and leaving behind clarity, peace, and perspective.
When Rene Hesse first stepped into the river twenty years ago with a veteran named Jim, he had no idea the impact that moment would have in the years to come. What began as teaching veterans how to tie flies and cast a line soon became something much deeper, offering a space where camaraderie, brotherhood, and the shared experiences of combat could foster healing and connection. That vision became the foundation of Veterans Fly Fishing, which Rene proudly co-founded and first served on the board for in 2014.
Rene reflects,” The twenty plus veterans in the program were moving from house to river, from the fog of daily medication to clearheaded and coming to a serene place where folks understood how they were feeling. As the program grew, regulars fished on designated days, shared lunch, and explored every aspect of fly fishing”.
Russell Ballew has also been there since the beginning when in 2014, his veteran friend invited him one sunny afternoon and he had no idea how this one outing would change his life.
Russell shares, “When I showed up I noticed that there were a lot of guys that were dealing with some of the same problems I was dealing with. Anxiety and depression about what had happened to us during our time in service, but mostly dealing with day to day life without any support. When you leave the military, you lose your job then lose your friendships, your purpose and your support. Basically, you are on your own to figure it out once you sign out and leave your last duty station”.
Dr. John Mauldin, a psychologist who lost a leg at war, began the program in 2014 and realized the benefits of the program instantly as he spoke with veterans that were experiencing a tough time after service. “Just like everything else in his life Dr J mastered the art and soon became a certified casting instructor for FFI. He served as the president until his death in September of 2025. It was a huge loss for everyone involved. I was the Vice president for VFF and was elected President after his passing. We knew as a group that we had to keep Dr John's legacy alive”, says Russell. CONTINUED >
Veterans Fly Fishing meets the first and third Monday of every month from October through June along the Etowah River. The organization provides veterans with equipment, guidance and a supportive community centered around the therapeutic benefits of fly fishing. Each participant is paired with a trained guide, creating opportunities for mentorship, connection and healing. Run entirely by volunteers and funded through local donations, the nonprofit offers veterans a peaceful environment where they can process trauma, build friendships and rediscover purpose after service. For many participants, the river has become more than a place to fish, it has become a place to heal.
Over the past twelve years, Veterans Fly Fishing has helped countless veterans reconnect with themselves and others by providing support in processing trauma, navigating life after service, and discovering healing through a shared passion for fly fishing. Roswell's Dutch Earle has been a volunteer member for three years and is passionate about what the organization is doing. He shares that each veteran is assigned a guide who is an experienced fly fisher and is certified through a structured VFF training program. With this one-on-one connection veterans have the opportunity to feel at ease on the water.
Dutch states, “Veterans Fly Fishing is affiliated with Fly Fishers International and run exclusively by volunteers. Our funding is solely through local donations and goes towards fish stocking, equipment and lunches. Montaluce Winery donates a section of the Etowah River on their property for our events”.
So, on the first and third Monday of every month from October through June, you will find veterans, abled and disabled alike, gathered beside the water to find something often lost after service: peace, connection, and a quiet sense of healing found only in the rhythm of casting a fly.
