Voted Cobb County’s Best Assisted Living & Retirement Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“We’rehonoredthatSterlingEstatesofEastCobbwasVoted BestAssistedLivingCommunityinMyEastCobbandthat SterlingEstatesCommunitieshavebeenrecognized“Best ofCobb”forRetirement,AssistedLiving,andMemoryCare. We’vebeenservingSeniorsingreaterAtlantaforover25+ yearsnow...Weinviteyoutocomeandexperiencewhatsets usapart.”MarshallGill,COO&Partner,SterlingEstatesSenior Living Communities
“WhatI’velearnedisthatallcommunitiestalkaboutwellness andsocialization...buttheydon’thavethewellnesscenter,green space,programmingandstaffingthatSterlingEstateshas.No onecanmatchwhatSterlingprovidesfortheirresidentsperiod. MyparentsarethrivingatSterlingEstates...betyourswilltoo.” ~ Susan S.
Come See Why So Many Are Choosing To Call Sterling Estates Home
Local Owners and Managers | Unparalleled Wellness & Activities Centers & Programs Award-Winning Food and Spacious Dining |Cottages and Apartments in Neighborhood Settings Certified Parkinson’s Disease Programs | Longevity of Staff
INDEPENDENT
LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE
East Cobb: 678-946-4454 (Ask for Shelly) | West Cobb: 770-255-7000 (Ask for Sherry or Lacey)
Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
539 Deer Crest Road | Blue Ridge
3 Bedroom | 3.5 Bathroom
Newly Offered at $1,390,000
Nestled in the mountains, this stunning 3-bed, 3.5-bath lodge by Tommy Wosyluk defines rustic luxury. Set on 1.3 acres, it combines modern amenities with natural beauty. Inside, the open-concept kitchen, living, and dining areas create an inviting space, featuring stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the home with light and showcase breathtaking views. The expansive outdoor patio is perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying nature, whether it’s a sunrise or a starry night.
Giving Thanks
This time of year we find ourselves reflecting on our good fortunes and the spirit of Thanksgiving that permeates throughout our communities. We are focused on spending time with those we love and care about most and respond quickly to the request to pitch-in and help make a difference.
While ambition, competition, and achieving goals help drive us to be and do better, this time of year it's important to be present and enjoy those around us.
Our November issue is full of happenings around town, losing yourself in the moment, and giving back. We lift the nonprofits who make our communities better and recognize those who lead them. We are grateful for these leaders for making a difference and prioritizing service above self.
I am incredibly thankful for neighbors and community members who make our cities great places to work, live, and play. We admire and respect the talent all around us. We recognize business leaders for their passion and dedication to their craft and working long hours to provide our community with exceptional goods and services.
Our team is especially thankful to our readers who flip through our pages monthly, engage with us on social media, and say hello while in the community. Your commitment to buying local and supporting our business partners means a great deal. It provides great value and stimulates the economy, creating a ripple effect of benefits. It strengthens our community, creates jobs and helps build sustainable initiatives.
Wishing your families and you a wonderful Thanksgiving. We are grateful for your friendship and support.
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com, Sidney Kate Lewis | sydneykate.lewis@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | Lisa.Thibault@citylifestyle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sydney Kate Lewis, Catherine James, Rei Kaiser, Kim Costa, Tran Bui
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Madeline Jane Photography, Tran Bui Productions, Sara Hanna
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
Proverbs 3:5-6
1: 2024-2025 CPWC Program Committee Opening Luncheon Atlanta Country Club. 2: Congratulations! Co-President Martha Altieri presents Heather Rees with CPWC Lifetime Achievement Award. 3: CPWC Members model fall trends by Rita Ellen Boutique at 2024-2025 Opening Luncheon 4: The Circle for Children at the Swan House at Atlanta History Center. 5: The Circle for Children at the Cyclorama at the Atlanta History Center 6: A sold-out Cobb Chamber of Commerce Annual Taylor English Golf Classic was a smashing success! 7: Putting for a win at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce Annual Taylor English Golf Classic.
8: Congratulations! Miss Grayson Brackett named 2024 Ms. Georgia State Fair. 9: Guinness World Record Top Fire Eater performs for huge crowds at North Georgia State Fair. 10: 2024 SafePath Gala Master and Mistress of Ceremonies, Mark Arum-WSB Radio and Lori Wilson-WSB-TV. 11: Brenda Perry and Andy Perry, The Robert and Polly Dunn Foundation - SafePathGrand Champion Sponsor 12: Kim Donegan and Amy Cox, WellStar Health System, celebrate mission and vision of SafePath.
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William Gentry, Gentry Law Firm, Celebrates Anniversary of Best Seller
William C. Gentry, Founder and Owner of Gentry Law Firm LLC, proudly serves his community and profession. With decades of combined experience, the Firm’s team of skilled attorneys are dedicated to delivering trusted solutions and experienced guidance. A published author, Bill currently serves as Treasurer of the State Bar of Georgia, which governs and sets policy for Georgia’s 54,000 lawyers. He served as Secretary of the State Bar of Georgia between 2023 and 2024, sits on the State Bar Board of Governors, is past President of the Cobb County Bar Association and is bar member of the United States Supreme Court. His recent book signing at the Avenue East Cobb was a success celebrating the one-year anniversary of the publication. To receive a free copy of the book or learn more about the Firm visit gentrylawfirmgeorgia.com http://www.gentrylawfirmgeorgia.com or call (770) 562-7493.
SafePath's Annual Gala a Resounding Success!
SafePath hosted its 21st Annual Hearing Children’s Voices Gala at Truist Park. The event was Presented by HealthTrackRX and Grand Champion Sponsor was The Dunn Foundation. Guests enjoyed casino activities, silent and live auction, and entertainment from the Braves Heavy Hitters Drumline! Pictured SafePath CEO, Jinger Robins with Event Chair/ Presenting Sponsor Vincent Hughes of HealthTrackRX. Because of the generosity of many, SafePath raised over $250,000 for the protection of children! safepath.org | 770-801-3465
Cobb Schools Leads the Way!
Results are in! The Georgia Board of Education released SAT results for 2024 graduating class. Cobb students maintain a significant lead over state and national peers. Four high schools are among Georgia's Top 25 - Walton (5th), Pope (11th), Lassiter (13th), Wheeler (T-21st). "Cobb families choose to live here because they know they're giving their kids the best chance to succeed," said Board Chair Randy Scamihorn. Congratulations parents, faculty/ administrators and students! Visit cobbk12.org for details.
GRACEFULLY GRATEFUL
ARTICLE BY KIM COSTA
CELEBRATING OUR LOVED ONES AND BLESSINGS IN STYLE
As the weather cools, we gather inside and outside on the porch, by the fire, and at the table to enjoy the season's blessings. Celebrating all that we are grateful for with good cheer is multiplied by the beauty of our surroundings. To make your home a gathering place for beloved family and friends and a seasonal showcase, you can elevate the décor with fresh, tried-and-true embellishments for the table, porch, and hearth. The key is to spread elements of nature and some finer pieces to make the celebration elegant and comfortable.
As people enter your home, they will be intrigued to see layers of your home and family’s personality. At the entry, double-layered welcome mats flanked by boots (old or new), lanterns, pumpkins, mums, and containers full of pansies set the stage for a fun-filled and sensory-delighting occasion as your guests enter the home. An autumn-colored wreath on the front door brings the eye up and adds to the ambiance as you greet your guests.
Around the hearth and the back porch, pumpkins, wheat grass, and more lanterns create cozy vignettes.
If you are lucky enough to have rocking or Adirondack chairs, fall-themed pillows and throws are the perfect accent to make the space feel comfortable and warm. Hay bales placed around your yard with pumpkins and pots of chrysanthemums make for a fun place to sit with some cider or dessert or watch the kids play in the yard.
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The base for an inviting Thanksgiving table starts with your finest warm fall-colored linens. You can also leave the table uncovered and use natural fiber placemats to keep the feel warm and earthy. Twine and mum buds are a nice touch to create a napkin holder to dress up your place settings. Another option for autumn plate décor is a small pumpkin on each plate.
Some fun Thanksgiving themes for the centerpiece are:
• Multicolored pumpkins and cream-colored candles
• Dried oats, white pumpkins, and off-white candles in distressed metal containers
• Dried hydrangea and small lanterns with fall-colored candles
• A burlap runner with distressed wooden chargers and pumpkins
• A charcuterie-style table with bowls containing nuts, olives, and dried flowers interspersed with candles and oats.
Shades of aubergine, olive, burnt orange, deep golden yellow, creams, dark gray, and black can be incorporated into your holiday decor throughout the foyer, dining room, bar, kitchen, bathrooms, guest rooms, and family rooms. By interspersing stylish pieces with more earthy and casual décor, you can keep the feel of your Thanksgiving event both elegant and inviting.
THE AAA GROUP'S CUSTOMER CARE EXTENDS FAR BEYOND THE COURTROOM
Taking Care of a Community
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
"I can’t think of any other business in the world where such a transaction exists." - Ali Salimi
When Ali and Jamie Salimi decided to start The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, they knew they didn't want to be just another law firm, donning the name of a vaguely known attorney and cluttering roadsides with billboard eyesores. No. They wanted to create a community-centric company, largely known, respected and needed by their neighbors and fellow residents.
With over 15 years of law experience combined and a new little girl at home, the pair had a solid foundation and good reason for their decision to move things "in-house" by starting their own firm. Their prior experience as corporate (Jamie) and criminal defense (Ali) attorneys, and some newly gained insight as parents, led Ali and Jamie to specialize in all things auto and accidents, hence The Auto Accident Attorneys Group was born.
"Ali was the driving force to move into the specialized area of auto accidents as opposed to personal injury because it provided an opportunity to niche down to a very specific consumer need," says Jamie.
The shift in speciality came with a need for a new name. Both Ali and Jamie were intentional about going beyond the industry standard of using the partners' names, and instead opted for a fresh take that better identified their area of expertise, so that clients could find the attorneys they needed quicker. The name The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, or The AAA Group for short, avoided any potential confusion and quickly denoted their practice's speciality.
Along with a new chapter in their careers, the pair chose to start fresh in a new location as well, leaving behind palm tree-laden Los Angeles for the sunny suburbs of metro Atlanta.
"When we decided to leave Los Angeles, we chose East Cobb specifically because it’s a bedroom community with great schools which makes it a perfect place to raise children," says Ali.
But East Cobb and their home base of Marietta would quickly become more than just a wonderful place to raise their kids. As they familiarized themselves with the good company, wholesome lifestyle and connected community Cobb had to offer, they decided to go the extra mile and integrate both their family and business deep into the fabric of East Cobb.
"When you have a business in your own community, you always want to add to the aesthetic of the community because you care about where you live and about the property values," explains Ali. "We’ve tried to make our office space as nice as possible so that it adds to the aesthetic of the community."
That simple sentiment has since transpired into a collection of community involvement initiatives, intentional marketing efforts and a new podcast for all Cobb County residents on behalf of The AAA Group.
Just like in years past, The AAA Group recently hosted their annual Fall Festival, bringing fresh flavors, family fun and fall festivities to Cobb County. As Jamie and Ali put it, "It’s our way of saying, 'We Take Care of You,' not just at the negotiating table but in every aspect of community life."
And now they're taking care of clients digitally, too, with the recent launch of The 3A Network, a podcast channel packed with legal content, geared towards any and all consumers looking for legal advice or to broaden their knowledge of law. Within the network, The AAA Group podcast, hosted by Ali Salimi, will offer a range of consumer-driven content, with a heavy focus on what Ali likes to call "Dadvice," small, informative tidbits that come in handy in any aspect of life, from car seat placement, to handling health insurance in an accident, to cooking tips. Ali promises every episode will offer at least one piece of advice from the perspective of any attorney and invites locals and non-locals to tune in online.
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While the community outreach efforts of The AAA Group are a testament to the genuine concern and care Ali and Jamie have for their neighbors, Ali offers an important reminder that, at the end of the day, success for The AAA Group will always mean client compensation.
"Without a doubt, the single most rewarding part of my job is being able to take care of a client without them ever having to reach into their pocket to pay
me for my services and, at the end of the case, I get to hand over a check to the client. I can’t think of any other business in the world where such a transaction exists. It truly makes me happy to advocate for people that have been injured and get them compensation."
- Ali Salimi
theaaagroup.com
HEALTHY HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
ARTICLE BY REI KAISER
Dr. Sheh Vahid, DMD, MS enjoys treats like the rest of us, but invites us to mix in a protein-packed appetizer this holiday season. Founder of Woodland Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Sheh’s practice was built from the ground up with her patients in mind. Located in the heart of East Cobb, little touches and a vibrant waiting room serve as a reminder this practice is dedicated to children and youth.
Easy, quick and packed with protein, vitamin A, calcium and iron, let’s make meatballs! Be sure to double the recipe for those extra hungry guests!
Ingredients:
• 2 TBSP parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• Half a pound ground beef (sub chicken or turkey)
• 2 eggs beaten
Instructions:
Step 1. Preheat oven to 350
Step 2. In a large bowl mix parmesan, oregano and bread crumbs.
Step 3. Combine all ingredients adding eggs and meat.
Step 4. Use ice cream scooper to form meatballs (golf ball size)
Step 5. Place 1" apart on a foil lined baking sheet or parchment paper.
Step 6. Bake for 10 minutes, flip and cook for additional 5-7 minutes until crispy.
https://www.woodlandpedo.com/
MARIETTA'S OWN COUNTRY MUSIC QUEEN
Ava specializes in writing lyrics with a type of beauty, grace, and wisdom only a teenager can possess. That’s why she chose country music. “One of my friends told me, ‘The definition of country music is telling a story,’” Ava said. “I got into music because I love to write, and country music is a more freeform way of writing.”
STREAM AVA CONNELL’S FIERY NEW SINGLE “IT’LL BUFF” FOR YOUR NEXT JAM SESSION
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE
When she finally managed to take a break between shows and recording, I had the pleasure of chatting with Ava Connell, the 19-year-old from Marietta who is taking the country music industry by storm.
Despite not having first taken the stage at Eddie’s Attic in Atlanta until she was fourteen, it was nine years prior when her dreams first formed, and she knew what she wanted to be when she grew up. Having grown up watching Victorious and similar shows, videos still reside on her mom’s camcorder of a five-year-old Ava dressed to the nines and singing her heart out. It was then and there that her ambition was realized. While she’s still singing her heart out, she now steps on stage after stage, playing over 100 shows a year at venues across the South, including the Coca-Cola Roxy and Whiskey Jam, performing her own songs.
Drawing inspiration from many, including queen Avril Lavigne (whose song “I’m With You” is her go-to serenade for her shower head),
“That’s my thing—writing lyrics,” Ava added. While her exact writing process differs every time, she is what they call a true artist in that she draws inspiration from everything. “Sometimes it’ll be a title first, or I’ll be listening to a song and have an idea.” She even draws inspiration from random things her ex-boyfriend says, such as the title of her debut song “One for the Road,” or a line during a rant from her friend, which inspired the title of her newest song, “It’ll Buff.”
Although, her writing process changes when collaborating with others, such as Aaron McBee. Walking into the session and immediately asking what they were going to write about, Aaron humbled her quickly, saying to let the music flow. Which is exactly what it did. “I started saying ‘I don’t feel well’ because my allergies were bad, and we wrote a whole song about how I don’t feel well, and it actually turned out really good.” Collaborations with McBee are only the beginning, though. With aspirations to work with talents like Zach Bryan, Jessie Murph, and Post Malone, it’s only a matter of time before her name is listed as a co-writer for many hits.
An Apple Music girl—though we won’t hold it against her—Ava’s everyday playlist is called “Super Country,” composed of nearly every country song she’s ever liked. With that said, her new song will definitely be added to my own Spotify playlist.
Following the release of her debut single, “One for the Road,” Ava’s newest single, “It’ll Buff,” isn’t just meant for your country playlist; it’s the song you play at full volume with windows down and wind in your hair. It’s the song you belt out at the top of your lungs as you dwell in the kind of frustration only men can cause. It’s the song to which every scorned and heartbroken young woman can relate.
Ava, the kind of girl who only wears gold jewelry, was shocked to find a silver diamond earring in the backseat of her then-boyfriend's car. While we’re all stunned by the audacity of men at times, we are also, silently, grateful for this particular heartbreak of Ava’s, as it led to the iconic line, “I wouldn’t be the first blonde to put a fist through his dash.” (Apparently, his previous ex had beaten his car—not the smartest guy.) “I really just want it to be that song where girls are like, ‘Screw this guy,’” Ava said. “It’s one of those songs that puts it into perspective that this sucks, but it’ll get better.”
With her release party set for November 2nd, coinciding with the University of Georgia vs. Florida football game, in Athens, Ava and her team will be dressed in UGA jerseys bearing “Cherry Creek.”
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Ava Connell, a rising 19-year-old country singer from Marietta, shares her journey from performing at 14 to playing over 100 shows annually. Inspired by heartbreak and everyday life, her songs, including her newest single "It'll Buff," resonate with young women. Ava credits her success to a strong support system.
Rebranding, Marietta Pilgrimage, and all things Visit Marietta
Meet Me On The Square
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Established in 1984 during Marietta's Sesquicentennial Celebration, what began as an initiative to market and promote the city has evolved into a comprehensive destination marketing organization. Today, Visit Marietta plays a vital role in the community, not only managing the city's reputation, but also curating memorable visitor experiences and fostering sustainability. As the city’s tourism ambassador, it shapes Marietta’s image and appeal, forging a connection between tourism and the local community. By driving economic growth and supporting local businesses, Visit Marietta enhances both the visitor experience and residents' quality of life. This private, non-profit organization is dedicated to highlighting Marietta's unique charm and attractions, positioning the city as a vibrant destination and encouraging tourism to fuel its economic vitality.
Over the years, Visit Marietta has grown in more ways than one. With significant growth in its adaptation to new trends, expansion of its brand, increased digital presence, event promotion, strategic partnerships and community engagement, the organization continues to elevate the city's profile as a desirable destination.
As a result, the organization has rebranded in recent months to reflect this evolution from a city to a vibrant travel destination.
“Visit Marietta serves as the city’s marketing and outreach arm, dedicated to promoting Marietta as a top tourist destination, cultural hub, and a place that fosters a sense of community,” said Brittney Gray, Visit Marietta’s Executive Director. “Our new brand aims to make Visit Marietta more distinctive and memorable in a crowded marketplace.”
After gathering insights through surveys and interviews, Visit Marietta partnered with id8, a branding agency known for its evidence-based creative approach, to create a purposeful, intentional and research-grounded brand for the city.
“Our city attracts both day-trippers and extended-stay visitors, offering a range of experiences from fine dining and arts to unique shopping and outdoor adventures,” Brittney said. The most captivating
“All roads lead back to the Square,” Brittney added.
“It’s my go-to spot for everything — whether I’m dining out, shopping for locally branded items, or planning a night out.”
part of Marietta, though? The Marietta Square. “All roads lead back to the Square,” Brittney added. “It’s my go-to spot for everything — whether I’m dining out, shopping for locally branded items, or planning a night out.”
Consequently, Marietta’s Square serves as the heart of the rebrand. This historic and beloved gathering place, which has sustained the city’s character and spirit, serves as a central hub inviting exploration and curiosity throughout the city. The Square is home to numerous events, including the must-attend Taste of Marietta, held on the last Sunday in April. “It’s a celebration of local flavors, and it brings the community together in a way that truly showcases Marietta’s culinary scene,” Brittney said.
If the Taste of Marietta is the must-attend event of the spring, then the Marietta Pilgrimage is the cannot-miss event of the fall. A cherished holiday tradition, the Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Tour of Homes celebrates the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. Taking place from December 6 through 8, this celebration invites visitors to explore a carefully curated selection of historic homes, beautifully adorned
for the season. Nestled in Marietta's storied neighborhoods, these homes, each from different eras of the city's history, come alive with festive holiday decorations, offering a captivating blend of tradition and seasonal charm. The weekend kicks off with the Marietta Pilgrimage Gala, an annual event featuring food, beverages, live music and a silent auction. “It’s a favorite event to welcome the holiday season in Marietta,” Brittney said.
Brittney invites “everyone to come discover, explore, and create memories. Meet me on the Square, and let’s experience the best of Marietta together!”
You can explore more of Marietta by visiting the Visit Marietta website for detailed information on the city’s offerings, or following them on social media (@visitmariettageorgia) for the latest events, news and happenings. And, of course, don’t forget to share your experiences and tag them in your social posts (#MeetMeOnTheSquare).
https://visitmariettaga.com/
~ Over vendors offering a large variety of unique and beautiful gift items ~ Jewelry, Wreaths, Pottery, Fine Art, Holiday and Home Décor, Accessories, Knits, Children’s Items and much more!
~ Tons of parking and all booths are indoors ~
~ Enter our Titan Tidings Raffle to win prizes ~ ~ Concessions will be available ~ Huge Bake Sale ~ ~ No Strollers Please ~ Admission ~
H E A R TS FO R HEL P I N G
As we prepare to gather and feast with family and friends, it's important to remember the faces of our community who, though they may not be gathered in our own dining rooms, deserve to be treated as such. These two organizations don't stop fighting for overlooked communities and amplifying their unheard cries for help year-round. The holiday season can be especially taxing on those in need and those tirelessly working to help them while pouring into their own circles. Unhoused children and unfed families are prevalent throughout our county, and these charities are making the changes necessary for all Cobb County residents have provision this holiday season.
THESE COBB-BASED ORGANIZATIONS ARE FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT LOCALLY
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE
JAMES
DOWN 7 UP 8 PORCH MARIETTA
As a foster parent of over 300 children, Rose Diggs has been acutely aware of the pitfalls and shortcomings in todays foster care system for years. But she has also always recognized the potential for life change in each and every misfortunate child that ends up in the system.
“I saw the resilience in their spirits, the dreams they harbored, and the potential that often lay dormant due to limited opportunities,” says Rose.
The organization hosts annual events solely designed to celebrate and promote children’s self-worth, and provides year-round tutoring and mentorship programs that not only encourage development, but create a sense of normalcy that might offset their challenging life experiences.
Those with a like minded heart for foster children and a desire to make a difference in their lives can support Down 7 Up 8 this holiday season through financial contribution, volunteer efforts, advocacy and in-kind donations.
www.down7up8inc.org
Liz Platner, founder of PORCH Marietta, started the organization after working at a Roswell food pantry for years and realizing just how easily food insecurity and homelessness can sneak up on anyone.
"People coming to the pantry for help often told me they never thought they'd need to ask for food," explains Liz.
PORCH Communities, the national nonprofit, creates sustainable hunger relief programs at local levels. PORCH Marietta partners with 15 local food pantries to identify their greatest needs each month. From there, willing donors place the needed food on their porch once a month for volunteers to pick up and distribute among pantries.
During the holidays, PORCH is collecting financial donations to buy holiday dinners for families in need. The community is also encouraged to host their own food drives to aid the cause. And if neither of those are possible, something as simple as spreading the word about PORCH on social media can make an impact.
https://porchcommunities.org/marietta
Say goodbye to rope maintenance with our proprietary Never Stretch Rope, now available for purchase or as part of a rehang of your existing bed swing. Custom-fit segments are designed for any bed swing—even non-ABS frames. Unlike traditional manila rope, our Never Stretch Rope eliminates the 6″ to 9
stretch, ensuring your swing stays perfectly in place!
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.
ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI
CREATING COMMUNITY AND HEALING IN NATURE
THE OUTDOOR MOMS
Lauren Preskitt, founder of The Outdoor Moms, knows firsthand the challenges that new motherhood can bring. After giving birth to her daughter in September 2023, Lauren struggled with postpartum isolation and mental health.
“I didn’t think it could happen to me,” Preskitt admitted. “I thought it was something I could control.”
Her friends were at different stages in their lives, with older children, leaving her feeling disconnected. Desperate for support and companion-
From that initial hike, The Outdoor Moms was born. The group, which hikes every Thursday at 11:00 a.m. in North Georgia, includes a mental health check-in where moms share their weekly wins and struggles. This simple, yet powerful practice has resonated deeply, helping the group grow from three moms to 1,500, with chapters all over Georgia including East Cobb and even into Alabama. Moms can join by following the group on Instagram and Facebook.
“I feel so proud of the response and extremely happy that moms have a
“I FEEL SO PROUD OF THE RESPONSE AND EXTREMELY HAPPY THAT MOMS HAVE A PLACE THEY CAN COME AND GET THEIR BABIES OUTSIDE IN NATURE.”
ship, Lauren’s partner encouraged her to seek out new friendships.
As an outdoor lover and avid hiker, Lauren decided to reach out to other moms through a local Facebook group. She posted about a hike she planned to take, and to her surprise, two other moms joined her.
“That hike was transformative. It showed me that I am not alone in what I was feeling and that moms need a supportive, uplifting community,” Lauren recalled with gratitude. “I’m so thankful for the moms who took that first step with me. Their presence made all the difference.”
place they can come and make friends, have a positive experience, and get their babies outside in nature,” Lauren said.
Jessica De Leo, a mom of one, joined The Outdoor Moms after moving to the Atlanta metro area and feeling isolated. “The first hike completely changed my life here,” she shared. “I’m grateful for the connections I’ve made and the support I’ve received from other moms who understand the challenges I’m facing.”
"I joined the group to deepen the relationship my children and I have with the outdoors in a safe and welcoming environment," added Melissa Heim, mom of two. "It’s hard getting
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out of the house with kids, but knowing other moms will be around to help and other children my kids can play with is a win-win! I’ve gotten a piece of my own childhood back and received so much support on all things motherhood."
Looking ahead, Lauren envisions The Outdoor Moms expanding even further, with chapters in every state and possibly internationally. Her goal is to get 10,000 moms outside by 2025.
This is not just a hiking group; it’s a lifeline for many mothers seeking friendship, support and a breath of fresh air. Lauren and The Outdoors Moms community are grateful for the connections they’ve made, the strength they’ve found in each other and the joy of sharing nature’s beauty with their little ones.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21 FIRED-UP
Early Bird: $55
Winter (Jan/Feb): $75
March/Gate: $85
SAT., MARCH 22 SAVOR
Early Bird: $59
Winter (Jan/Feb): $79 March/Gate: $99
SAT., MARCH 22 VIP LOUNGE AT SAVOR
Early Bird: $125
Winter (Jan/Feb): $150 March/Gate: $165
SUNDAY, MARCH 23 FAMILY DAY
Early Bird: $15
Winter (Jan/Feb): $20 March/Gate: $25
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
SUNDAY VIP LOUNGE
Early Bird: $99 Winter (Jan/Feb): $119 March/Gate: $139
FAVORITE
BY SARA HANNA
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY
FIRESIDE R E A SD
Kimberly Belle is a USA Today and internationally bestselling author with over one million copies sold worldwide and titles including The Paris Widow, The Marriage, a Goodreads Choice Awards semifinalist for Best Mystery & Thriller, and the co-authored #1 Audible Original series, Young Rich Widows. Kimberly’s novels have been selected by LibraryReads and Amazon as Best Books of the Month and optioned for film and television. She divides her time between Atlanta and Amsterdam.
BLOOD SISTERS
BY VANESSA LILLIE
I love every book Vanessa Lillie has written, though as her co-author for the Young Rich Widows series, I may be a little biased. Blood Sisters follows archaeologist Syd Walker, an Oklahoma Cherokee woman working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. When human bones are discovered at the scene of a crime that took place 15 years ago, Syd uses her experience as an archaeologist to help solve the case. Like her protagonist, Vanessa is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma now living on Narragansett land in Rhode Island, so this story is deeply personal to Vanessa, and it carries an important message about how the US treats its Indigenous population.
PRETTY THINGS
BY JANELLE BROWN
I often get asked what books I wish I'd written myself, and I was about two pages into Pretty Things when I knew it would make the list. The writing is gorgeous and so is the setting, a sprawling mountain estate on the wintry shores of Lake Tahoe, a place so vivid and lush it practically leaps off the page. The two main characters are just as compelling—Nina, a con artist who learned the art from her mother, and Vanessa, an heiress and Instagram influencer with a family that’s seen its share of tragedy. This book offers an unexpected and deliciously clever story about two women brought together by the scam of a lifetime, and the ending is chef’s kiss.
THE LAST HOUSEWIFE
BY ASHLEY WINSTEAD
This book has just about every single trigger you could possibly imagine, but if you can stomach that, it’s one of my favorite reads from the past few years. When Shay Deroy learns that one of her college besties has died by what police are calling a suicide, she goes back to the one place she vowed never to return in search of answers. This book is dark and disturbing and chock full of gasp-worthy moments; the kind of story you tear through one sitting then flip back to the beginning and read again to see what you missed (and believe me, you missed a lot). Ashley Winstead really went there with this one, and she knocked it out of the park.
Keep up with Kimberly on Instagram (@KimberlySBelle), Facebook (KimberlyBelleBooks) and Twitter (@KimberlySBelle) or via her website at www.kimberlybellebooks.com
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