Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
283 Blue Sky Overlook | Blue Ridge
3 Bedroom | 3 Bathroom | 2,576 SF Offered for $1,150,000
Discover the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern luxury in this beautifully maintained, family-friendly cabin in the Aska Adventure Area. With two spacious porches, a chef’s kitchen, kids’ play loft, recreation room, and serene surroundings, it’s the ultimate retreat for both adventure and relaxation.
Thomas Echea
954.980.2830 | 404.668.6621 thomas.echea@compass.com
Laura Elleby
678.736.1132 | 404.668.6621 laura.elleby@compass.com
194 Blue Sky Overlook | Blue Ridge
4 Bedroom | 4 Bathroom | 3,228 SF Offered for $1,750,000
Escape to a private, custom-designed retreat in Blue Ridge’s Aska Adventure Area, where rustic charm meets modern luxury. Perched atop the range with 360-degree views, this gated cabin features a chef’s kitchen, guest suite, entertainment level with wet bar, summer kitchen with pizza oven, and lush, professionally landscaped grounds—perfect for refined mountain living.
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Celebrating Men Following Passion and Serving Community
It is with great pride and excitement I welcome you to our very special Men’s Issue — a celebration of extraordinary men who are redefining what it means to lead, to give, and to persevere.
In these pages, you’ll meet leaders whose journeys are as diverse as they are inspiring: from philanthropists quietly shaping a better future for generations to come, to adventurers pushing their physical and mental limits on the world’s tallest peaks, to entrepreneurs who have built powerful empires and continue to evolve, innovate, and uplift others along the way. Each story is a reminder that strength is not simply measured by achievements, but by the impact one makes, the risks one is willing to take, the resilience shown through every challenge and the courage to make a change.
Today’s man is not defined by a single identity — he is a leader and a learner, a mentor and a pioneer, a dreamer and a doer. We honor the spirit of those who give generously, who inspire others by example, and who never stop reaching for new heights, both personally and professionally.
To all the men featured in this issue we are honored to share your stories. And to all those men quietly making a difference every day across our cities and community — we see you, we applaud you, and we are proud you are part of our community.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Sincerely,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER
@EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com, Sydney Kate Lewis | sydneykate.lewis@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rei Kaiser | reikaiser@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ed Klaus, Wendy Edwards, Laurel Clayton-Seheult
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kevin Shen, Alexandra Santos
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Time to Make New Memories
BOOK YOUR FALL BREAK, HOLIDAY GETAWAY OR 2026 SUMMER VACATION TODAY!
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We’d love for you to visit! Scan the code to see more details. 877-214-7353 | @suitebeachtybee | info@tybeevacationrentals.com
inside the issue
Men
Jimmy Buffet Sails in, Surprises US Navy at Sea!
Honoring Sailors, Marines and Wounded Warriors bringing music, joy and unwavering support to servicemen
Passion + Purpose
From South Florida to Blue Ridge, E+E Group's Thomas Echea is redefining the real estate professional Georgian Attempts
Veteran
O'Malley
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cobb Chamber April Marquee "Tuesday". Governor Brian and First Lady Marty Kemp with Chamber leadership. 2: A dozen artists participated in McFarlane Nature Park's Plein Air Painting Day featuring Maryam Askaran. 3: Peggy Fulgham, Founding Board Member, Rally Foundation, hosts friends at Rally On The Runway. 4: Rally Foundation raises $1 million+ dollars at Rally On The Runway supporting childhood cancer research. 5: Rally Foundation honors and celebrates children and their families in the fight against childhood cancer. 6: Holly Quinlan, Lindsey Burris, Al Martin, Tripp Boyer, Sally Macaulay and friends at Cobb Chamber 7: Lynn Thompson CPWC Garden Club Chairwoman holds closing event at Anita Best Misel's home.
High School Sophmores Raise Money for Cancer Research
East Cobb teens Kahn Peterson, Caitlyn Ymbras and Sam Fields were recently selected among other elite swimmers to serve as Junior Ambassadors for Swim Across America-Atlanta and are committed to helping raise money to support innovative cancer research. "I joined Swim Across America because I believe in their mission and want to help give more families hope", says Peterson. Each will lead a team on September 20 at Lake Lanier. To support Kahn, visit swimacrossamerica.org
Celebrating a 30 Year Affair With Chocolate
Karl Vivier, the proud owner of A Cacao Affair, celebrates 30 years of success! His passion for creating exquisite chocolate confections and baked goods is unparalleled. Vivier experiments with mouth-watering flavors and enjoys pairing chocolate with spices, wines, and fruits. His inventions are one-ofa-kind and include danishes, truffles, macarons and dipped fruit. Important gatherings and milestones call for Vivier’s astonishing saint honores, fruit tarts, gâteau basque or a buttery galette des rois. acacaoaffair@ gmail.com 470-762-7640.
Local Favorite Tin Lizzy's Offers Laid-Back Vibes and Gaming Destination
Tin Lizzy's offers flavorful food, made-to-order cocktails, and laidback vibes for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. From quick lunches to relaxing dinners, it's the perfect spot. Their impressive menu features globally-inspired tacos, Korean BBQ, Philly Cheesesteak, and grilled mahi-mahi; alongside fresh salads and house-made salsas. Inside Tin Lizzy's East Cobb is Tin Pin, offering a unique gaming destination including pinball machines and a variety of arcade games like Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga and Donkey Kong. tinlizzyscantina.com/locations/ east-cobb/ | 770-609-2689.
Something's Brewing at Round Trip Brewery Company-East Cobb
With almost 20 years of experience, award-winning brewer Craig Mycoskie, CEO-Head Brewer of Round Trip Brewing Company, is serving up something special! The brewery is well-known across Atlanta for crafting typical and üntypical German-style beer for its community of neighbors and explorers in pursuit of unique experiences, common good, and camaraderie. The 4,000 sq ft East Cobb taproom features a delicious family-friendly, casual menu, indoor/outdoor bar and private patio. Second West Midtown location. roundtripbrewing.com/announcing -round-trip-brewing-east-cobb/ 678-909-5712.
Les Marmitons, Local Gentlemen's Cooking Club
Men who share a common interest in fine food, wine and the culinary arts
Les Marmitons is a gastronomic and social club of gentlemen who share a common interest in fine food, wine and the culinary arts. Through regular gatherings in professional kitchens members gain knowledge and experience in the planning, preparation, presentation, and dining of various fine cuisines under the direction of a professional chef. Its motto is: Gastronomie et Fraternite – from Friendship to Gastronomy
The tradition of a group of gentlemen inviting culinary professionals to lead them in preparing elaborate meals began in Europe many years ago, and was introduced to North America forty years ago. The word "marmiton" is French and means a kitchen boy, or chef's helper. With the growing interest in food and wine our membership continues to expand and benefit from our traditions of promoting friendship and gastronomy.
Les Marmitons Atlanta inducted in 1996 and its members have prepared over 160 dinners supervised by local chefs. Among the recent guest chefs who include A.J. Jones, with Milton’s, Laz Tenreiro of Lazaro’s Cuban Cuisine in Roswell, Sean Ford with Prime 120, Noah Bazarte of A&M Kitchen, Mike Gambini of North End Kitchen, and Michael Bologna of Vingenzo’s. Les Marmitons members pay an annual membership fee and are provided with a chef’s jacket, apron, and toque which they wear at each dinner.
Prior to each dinner, members review the menu which usually consists of an appetizer, salad course, one or two entrees, and dessert – each accompanied by the evening’s wine program. A fee is charged to cover the cost of groceries and wine.
Attendees are divided into teams, led by a team leader, with the responsibility of preparing, cooking, and serving a specific course under the guest chef’s supervision. Team assignments rotate and members take turns captaining each team. A typical Les Marmitons dinner begins around 5 p.m., with members enjoying wine and appetizers, meeting the guest chef, listening to an overview of the evening's menu, and discussing the timeline for meal preparation and service. During meal preparation, the chef moves around the kitchen, offering guidance and sharing expertise with groups. Members are
Marietta's Jim Taylor sautes mushrooms for rib main course
free to observe different teams to witness the preparation of other courses. After each course is plated and served, members gather in the dining room to enjoy the food and wine, listen to the team captain describe specifics of the preparation, and receive feedback from the guest chef.
Over the years, the Les Marmitons Atlanta chapter has prepared its dinners in several professional kitchens, including Chattahoochee Technical College, St. David’s Episcopal Church in Roswell, and the Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Marietta, which the chapter currently calls “home.” Les Marmitons Atlanta boasts close to 40 members, with half of its members hailing from the Cobb County/Roswell/Alpharetta areas and the balance from
JIM TAYLOR, MARIETTA MEMBER SINCE 2017
"I was sitting at a carwash one day and came upon an article about this men's cooking club with a funny French name that met monthly in a professionally equipped church kitchen. Recently returned from a Culinary workshop in Napa, I had caught the "cooking bug." Further, I'd just retired and the fellowship aspect of meeting new folks with similar interests intrigued me. That was over eight years ago. Since that time I've met a bunch of great guys who have become close friends and created incredible dishes that I never thought I'd ever be able to prepare."
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DISH?
"It was actually my biggest fail. On my first night as a member, we had a "colorful" Greek chef whose approach was to throw newbies into the water to see if we could swim. My assignment was to prepare a Greek-style grilled octopus dish which I attempted to prepare on a Weber charcoal grill. Well the thing quickly got out of hand and to say it was like chewing rubber bands would be an understatement. More like copper wire..."
https://www.facebook.com/lesmarmitonsatlanta
LMA Presidents Hocker, Seiberling and Giardino
Mike Ianzito and Tim Maycher
An American hero sails in, surprises US Navy!
HONORING THESE SAILORS, MARINES AND WOUNDED WARRIORS , JIMMY BUFFET BROUGHT MUSIC, JOY AND UNWAVERING SUPPORT TO THOSE WHO SERVE
ARTICLE BY ED KLAUS
Everyone I know loved Jimmy Buffett and has stories about good times shared at his shows. My memory in the U.S. Navy has nothing to do with music or fun times. It’s a part of his life that most people don’t know, but why I consider him more than just a great musician and entertainer. He is a patriot, hero, and an American treasure.
This occurred toward the end of the Cold War with the former Soviet Union and sounds like something Tom Clancy would have written, but it's a true story. While serving as an Electronic Warfare Technician in mid 1980 aboard the Second Fleet Command Ship, USS Mount Whitney, I participated in Refresher Training off Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, after a stint in the Norfolk Shipyards for upgrades.
Training was hot, tiring, grueling, and you had to be alert and balanced because drills came at all hours. You had to be prepared for anything. I thought I was, but there are certain things you can’t anticipate. On an otherwise routine day, one of my shipmates reported highly unusual signals and frequencies that appeared to be transmitting from a Sovietera ballistic missile submarine. As they were emanating from the surface and not moving, rather than from a sub that should be running silent and deep, it was improbable. We figured we were being tested and didn’t panic. The chance of that type of detection was about as likely as seeing a school of mermaids. However, as that class of submarines carried nuclear warheads, torpedoes, and other armaments, we didn’t take it lightly. We noted it in the logbook, got out manuals to do research, and continued to keep an eye on it, but generally dismissed it. Minutes later, a radioman began banging on the door. Announcing he had received a radio message on a civilian frequency from a guy
on a yacht claiming to be Jimmy Buffett who was reporting a Soviet submarine sitting at the surface. He wanted to know if we could confirm it. We then bolted into action.
This was no drill or war game. It was serious. Our senior chief petty officer was alerted and was skeptical but listened intently. He walked into the Combat Information Center to inform the admiral’s watch captain, a Navy legend, Captain James “Red” Best. We waited for the chief to return with instructions and never imagined what was next. Suddenly, the hatch slammed open, and together with our chief was Captain Best. He was known for his salty ways, he was both loved and feared.
“This proud Navy veteran will, more than all his concerts and songs, always remember my brief encounter with this American hero in a way that few others ever have” - Ed Klause
Captain Best wanted to hear firsthand what we knew. When the radioman told him that someone claiming to be Jimmy Buffett reported an unusual but specific sighting, Best exploded!
“If Jimmy Buffett says there is a Soviet sub sitting on the surface, then there is! He knows what he is talking about!” He returned to the CIC to alert our ship’s captain, Larry Lubbs, Second Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Henry “Hank” Mustin, Navy “royalty” and (at the time) of one of the most famous and decorated military families in history.
What happened next was intense, the most serious moment in my career, and what we trained for. General Quarters was sounded, and all hands manned their battle stations. Mine was on the ship’s main deck, I was responsible for the chaff launcher. It launches electronic countermeasures designed to lure hostile missiles away from ships under attack by creating false targets. It was the stuff you see in movies, and I liked it for the thrill, but mostly because I could get fresh air and a view after being inside the tin can for so long. Monitoring what was going on below deck by radio, I saw with my own
CONTINUED >
eyes that an impressive yacht was allowed to pull up alongside us, and off stepped Jimmy Buffett, greeted warmly by who I now know to be his longtime and good friend, Captain Best. I could not see it from my position, but was told that Jimmy was escorted directly to the bridge by Best, where he talked to our ship’s captain, and then CIC, where he briefed the senior staff. From my vantage point, I witnessed various U.S. fighters and attack planes moving in. While I couldn’t see it, I was aware that our constant companion supporting the admiral’s flagship, the submarine USS Bonefish, was just below the water’s surface ready. It was undoubtedly keeping close tabs on its Soviet counterpart, which had been forced to surface due to some unknown mass casualty event. (An ironic sidenote is that over a year later, the USS Bonefish suffered explosions and fire in her battery compartment operating in the Caribbean, killing three. The Bonefish surfaced, and orders were given to abandon ship since the fire spread quickly, with dense smoke. She was decommissioned a few months later.)
What happened with that Soviet sub and crew, I certainly don’t know. I’m sure it was unpleasant. I didn’t have a need to know, and there are just certain things you don’t ask. Jimmy eventually disembarked our ship, and I watched his yacht pull away as
we departed. When I returned to my station, my shipmates had questions and accounts for me, as I did for them. They told me they were shocked to see ANY civilian, much less Jimmy Buffett, walking through passageways, especially under the circumstances. I learned over the years that Jimmy Buffett was always a fan of the Navy. He had wanted to go to the Naval Academy and applied to Officer Candidate School but was denied due to a health issue. But his love and support for our military, particularly for the Navy, endured.
In 2018, Jimmy Buffett was presented the highest award that can be given to a civilian by the Secretary of the Navy. The citation read, in part: “For Superior Public Service in recognition of the exceptional and wide-ranging contributions made to the Department of the Navy, Mr. Buffett is an unwavering supporter of the men, women, and families of the Navy and Marine Corps. His dedicated service to our Sailors, Marines, wounded warriors, and civilians ensured that they were provided highly visible support and gratitude that greatly enhanced morale and welfare across the Department.” This proud Navy veteran will, more than all his concerts and songs, always remember my brief encounter with this American hero in a way that few others ever have.
Jimmy Buffet's Medal of Honor Ed Klause
RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL REPAIRS | INSTALLATIONS | INSPECTIONS
Meer Electric is a trusted, award-winning family-owned, full-service electric company serving Marietta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and beyond. From EV Chargers, to generators, rewiring, and repairs, our seasoned professionals are trained and equipped to handle all home, business and municipal electrical needs.
ARTICLE BY REI KEISER
Gifts He’ll Truly Love
CELEBRATE THE SPECIAL MAN WHO INSPIRES YOU WITH THIS YEAR'S MOST POPULAR GIFTS.
Finding the perfect gift for the man in your life can be a challenge, but this season, we’ve made it easy. Father’s Day 2025 is just around the corner - Sunday, June 15 - Skip the guesswork and give him something thoughtful, practical, and cool. These gifts aren’t just nice—they’re exactly what he wants. Here’s a curated guide featuring standout ideas across tech, fitness, home and luxury picks! Skip the guesswork and give him something thoughtful, practical, and cool. These gifts aren’t just nice—they’re exactly what he wants.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDRA SANTOS
From South Florida to Blue Ridge-Georgia, E+E Group's Thomas Echea is redefining what it means to be a real estate professional and business partner
Passion+Purpose
+Influence
Some of us are lucky enough to discover what sets our souls on fire - and even luckier to chase it with everything we’ve got. When that passion becomes a purpose—and that purpose transforms into a business that fuels not just ourselves but serves others too - that’s the sweet spot, the icing on the cake. For Thomas Echea the journey into real estate began when he and his partner started searching for investment properties. It was during these early hunts his partner noticed something undeniable; Mr. Echea’s natural passion for real estate. Mr. Echea remembers, “I was inspired by my partner to get my real estate license. As we made several investment purchases, he pointed out how energized I became every time we looked at property. That’s when the seed was planted - and from there, my real estate career launched and I’ve never looked back.”
Thomas Echea
Since 2009, Mr. Echea has refined his skills while seeking investment properties across Florida and the Blue Ridge Mountains. His self-starting spirit did not go unnoticed. It caught the eye of a friend who practiced real estate with Compass, the nation’s leading real estate firm in residential sales. With encouragement from friends and colleagues, Mr. Echea took a bold step and opened a Compass office in the heart of Blue Ridge, bringing big-league expertise to this thriving local market. His business has grown to include a team of professionals that compliment one another. “As my career progressed, I recognized the power of collaboration and began building a team of talented, like-minded individuals," says Mr. Echea.
Today, he and his proven business partner, Laura Elleby, have attracted and developed a dynamic team of professionals - each bringing their own unique strengths and qualities that clients genuinely value and trust. Mr. Echea relays, “Together we lead a successful team of agents known as the E+E Group located in downtown Blue Ridge. Laura and I have grown our business organically, curating an incredible team of skilled individuals who bring their best talents to work every day. Their commitment to excellence and collaboration has been the foundation of our success”.
Working in two distinctive locales, Mr. Echea possesses an intimate understanding of the unique characteristics and nuances that make the North Georgia Mountains and South Florida sought-after destinations. Whether the rustic charm and natural beauty of the mountains or the vibrant coastal
lifestyle of Florida, Mr. Echea guides clients toward their ideal property with confidence.
The E+E Group enjoys working with buyers and sellers, and has built strong relationships with client-builders, investors, and developers - connections that continue to add meaningful value to their business. “The lesson I know without a doubt is that key relationships are pivotal in this business. Communication serves as the cornerstone for building long-lasting, trust-based relationships. I firmly believe in the value of having a handful of strong, loyal clients over a larger, less connected network,” says Mr. Echea. To learn more compass.com/ agents/e-e-group • 954-980-2830
Atlanta Bed Swings
Curated for Comfort. Inspired by You.
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
VETERAN BRIAN O'MALLEY GIVES BACK TO TUNNEL TO TOWERS FOUNDATION
Georgian Attempts Everest for Great Cause
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
““If I can complete this challenge, I will also be the oldest Georgian to have climbed Mount Everest.”-Brian O'Malley
Service to God and country run deep with the O’Malley family. With generations having served in either the armed services, law enforcement or the fire department, they know what it means to work for and protect something larger than themselves. Service can take many different forms and for Brian O’Malley it just happened to include danger, excitement and crushing records.
This sentiment formed a culture that has built an unbreakable bond of support and love that only a family brings. Brian and Shelley O’Malley, both Navy veterans, have always been committed to their loved ones. Therefore, when their daughter Lauren was stationed at Norfolk Naval Station, unaccompanied by her Marine Corps husband, Jared, who was stationed at Camp Lejeune, there was no question that they would buy a home in Norfolk. This way they could support their daughter in her endeavors, while simultaneously maintaining roots in Georgia. Shelley works at Delta in Atlanta so you’ll find them commuting back to Marietta and their North Georgia home in Hiawassee almost every week.
You can find these examples all over the O’Malley Family tree. Where greatness abounds, greatness follows and the O’Malley bunch of five stick together. So, when Brian was presented with a volunteer opportunity to assist the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, he and his family were excited to support their efforts.
Through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, veterans and first responders can find support through initiatives such as providing mortgage-free homes, retrofitting existing homes to accommodate the catastrophically injured and eradicating veteran homelessness. Tunnel to Towers has also just broken ground
to build the “Atlanta Veterans Village” in Mableton, Georgia, a residential facility that will house nearly 100 homeless veterans upon completion. The project will feature long-term apartments, transitional housing, a gym, a cafeteria and a business center.
However, as life sometimes goes, Brian was confronted with major back surgery in 2024. As he recuperated, he found YouTube videos about climbing Mt. Everest inspirational. Brian recalls, “I started watching these videos when I was rehabbing and it just grabbed me. I said to myself, ‘man, you could do this’”!
Brian knew this would be a fantastic opportunity to support Tunnel to Towers and began his efforts along with his climbing partner and brother-in-law, Steve McDaniel, Air Force veteran and retired Georgia police officer, to raise money for the cause. With this, they both trained to climb the highest mountain in the world.
This past March Brian and Steve trekked to Base Camp and Brian is now scheduled to go back for the climb to the top of Mount Everest this spring. He will train with a team who has invited him to climb with them and will be the oldest climber on the expedition. In fact, Brian will be the third American over sixty to climb Mount Everest. Brian relays, “If I can complete this challenge, I will also be the oldest Georgian to have climbed Mount Everest”. Although there is danger, pain and uncertainty involved, Brian couldn’t be more excited about the chance to help an organization that gives so much.
Many will be rallying behind Brian, but no one will be cheering louder than his family as they pray for him and read every Facebook post. Follow along Brian O’Malley’s journey through t2t.org and on Facebook.
Leaders Who Inspire
HONORING BOLD LEADERSHIP, UNSTOPPABLE DRIVE, AND THE SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE!
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS, LAUREL CLAYTON-SEHEULT
KORY RYKMAN
THE RYKMAN INSURANCE GROUP - ALLSTATE
Being one of the most successful Allstate agencies year-over-year nationally comes with its perks, as well as its responsibilities. Since 2013, Lindsey and Kory Rykman have been working tirelessly to bring the best coverage and customer service to their friends and neighbors in Atlanta and it shows. Having been awarded the 2023 Best in Company Award, The Rykman Insurance Group has been able to parlay their success into expanding to different states.
In addition to owning offices in Marietta, Kennesaw, Acworth, Woodstock and East Cobb, The Rykman Insurance Group is now writing coverage for customers in Florida. As they open their Tampa office, they will tap into the 28 million clients that can experience the “Rykman touch” for themselves. Mr. Rykman states, “The trend is 1-800-self service for many insurance companies but we’re doing the opposite. We now have 30 employees and half of them do service. I could ship jobs overseas and charge less, but these “service providers” wouldn’t understand the insurance needs like the people that live in the state”.
Mr. Rykman also continues to find success in Ryce Realty Partners, his home rehabbing and selling business. He has carefully curated a team that works together to find the deals, negotiate the
terms, renovate homes on time and on budget and then sell to a prospective homeowner. Many times the buyer is purchasing a home for the first time. Mr. Rykman says, “First time home buyers don’t want a project. That’s why they love our fully renovated homes”. These clients can then take advantage of the expertise and experience the The Rykman Insurance Group has developed over their twelve years of being in business. For the Rykman Insurance Group, it’s just like welcoming you into the family.
Contact Kory Rykman to explore options for all your insurance needs Krykman@allstate.com • 770-974-5303.
EAST COBB COUNSELING
DR. STEPHEN WISE, PSYD, LPC, CCTP
It’s time to flip the script on how we talk about men’s mental health. Too often, boys and men are taught to “tough it out,” hide their emotions, or handle things alone. But emotional strength doesn’t come from silence—it comes from self-awareness, support, and the courage to ask for help. At East Cobb Counseling, we believe in giving men and boys the space to be strong and vulnerable, confident and curious, driven and emotionally grounded.
We’re proud to have three incredible male clinicians on our team Shannon Mimbs, Dr. Stephen Wise, and Alex Ayvazian — who are deeply committed to helping boys, teens, and men thrive.
ALEX AYVAZIAN, MS, LPC, NCC, DOCTORAL CANDIDATE
Shannon Mimbs brings a relatable, calming presence to his work with clients navigating everything from relationships and identify formation to anxiety and emotional regulation. Dr. Stephen Wise blends empathy with deep clinical expertise, helping veterans, seniors, adults and young men work through conflicts in partnerships, trauma, and life transitions with clarity and strength. Alex Ayvazian connects powerfully with young adults, creating a welcoming environment for open conversations around identity, self-esteem, and the new pressures men in this era face.
Whether it’s a teenage boy struggling with school stress, a college student facing depression, or a dad balancing work, his relationships and family life—we’re here to help. Our goal is to normalize therapy for men and boys, empower them with tools to navigate life, and let them know they’re not alone.
SHANNON MIMBS, MACMHC, MDIV, LPC, NCC, CAMS
At East Cobb Counseling, we see therapy not as a last resort, but as an act of strength—a bold step toward becoming the best version of yourself. Let’s raise a generation of emotionally healthy, self-aware men and boys who know it’s okay to ask for support—and that doing so is a powerful form of growth.
Discover more eastcobbcounseling.com • 678-263-4211.
JAN ZALUD
PERSPIRE SAUNA STUDIO
Jan Zalud, owner of FG Brands (Feel Good Brands), has always built his wellness businesses around one guiding principle: make the customer feel good.
“People will never forget how you make them feel,” says Mr. Zalud. “When you do your job well and leave someone feeling valued and cared for, they remember you— and your business. They become advocates and even friends.” This customer-first approach has been central to his success.
Growing up in the Czech Republic, Mr. Zalud was inspired by the European tradition of regular sauna use—a ritual he believed Americans would come to appreciate. “I’ve always been focused on physical health, but life’s challenges taught me that mental wellness is just as important,” he shares. “Sauna sessions have become part of my personal routine to maintain both.”
With that philosophy in mind, he opened Perspire Sauna Studio in East Cobb/Marietta, a natural extension of his wellness-focused FG Brands portfolio. Perspire offers a luxury infrared sauna experience that supports meditation, relaxation, or simply catching up on your favorite show. Infrared heat and redlight therapy offer benefits ranging from reduced inflammation and faster muscle recovery to better cardiovascular, skin, and mental health.
“Science is starting to embrace what many have known for years,” Zalud says. “More studies are showing how therapies like this can help combat chronic diseases.”
Perspire Sauna Studio now has locations in East Cobb/ Marietta’s Merchant’s Walk, Midtown, Virginia Highland, and Buckhead. The brand also engages the community through festivals and wellness pop-ups, encouraging people to explore sauna and red-light therapy. “For anyone looking to improve their health,” Mr. Zalud says, “just try a session—you might fall in love with it like so many of our clients have.
Visit perspiresaunastudio.com/ga/east-cobb/ • 678-902-8398
In the heart of Atlanta’s jewelry scene, one name continues to shine with enduring brilliance—Jewelry Artisans. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Jamie Kresl’s ownership, a milestone that reflects passion, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
The story begins in 1973, when David Geller, a talented jeweler from Neiman Marcus, founded Jewelry Artisans. In 1993, Mr. Kresl joined the business as store manager, quickly immersing himself in the world of custom design and client relationships. Seven years later, a simple yet life-changing conversation with David led him to take the reins. In January 2000, Mr. Kresl became the proud owner of Jewelry Artisans.
Under his leadership, the store has grown into one of Atlanta’s premier custom jewelry destinations. With on-site designers, the team offers everything from unique creations to expert repairs, all delivered in a warm, family-like atmosphere. Mr. Kresl credits their success to word of mouth, loyal clients, and the genuine joy of helping people commemorate life’s most meaningful moments.
JAMIE KRESL
JEWELRY ARTISANS
"Of the many touching stories that stands out involves two sisters who brought in their late mother’s sapphire ring”, shares Mr. Kresl. "My team and I carefully transformed it into two identical rings, each set with a piece of the original stone - allowing both sisters to carry a part of their mother with them always. One example among hundreds where jewelry has become a lasting legacy."
At the heart of the experienced design team is Beatriz, a gifted artisan whose background in architecture and intuitive grasp of clients’ wishes allows her to create unforgettable, heirloom-quality pieces.
Always ahead of the curve, our artists and jewelers are deeply committed to growth and development, regularly attending premier industry shows. This dedication allows Jewelry Artisans to thoughtfully curate a collection that blends timeless elegance with modern individuality.
As Jewelry Artisans celebrates its remarkable 51st year in business, Mr. Kresl continues to inspire—a testament to how vision, integrity, and heart, can transform a small business into a nationally recognized legacy, one brilliant stone at a time.
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