EDUCATION
BECCA SUE KLEIN ALL KIDS FISH
TEEN POWER: TUTORING FROM THE HEART
ARTS + CULTURE
MUSIC BOOSTS
ACADEMIC SUCCESS AUGUST 2026
Hello Friends
Back-to-school shopping was a highlight of our August summer vacation. Well, along with sailing, sleeping in and corn on the cob. There was a general store and a small department store near the cottage, so my mom would take us shopping on rainy days, and we would pick out jeans, sneakers and sweaters for our September start date.
These wardrobe items would remain untouched until the first day of school, laundered and ready for action. One year, I dared to wear my new shoes, just for a minute to run out to the ice cream truck. We lived on a dirt road out in the country, so the prospect of a Bomb Pop delivery wasn't terribly common. I slipped on my new shoes, grabbed my brother's coin jar and dashed across the wide green lawn toward the road. I tripped while jumping across the mushy ditch, and the jar crashed and broke, the coins (most pennies - RIP) rolling into the road. I honestly can't remember whether or not I was able to stop the truck, but I certainly will never forget the trouble I got into for wearing my school shoes outdoors. The drama of back-to-school!
In our annual KIDS and PETS issue, we celebrate the joys of each.
The residents of Village Park Alpharetta share their sweet pets in portraits on page 12.
Enjoy the tail end of summer and a gentle school introduction.
All my best,
Sue and Vito (my tuxedo cat)
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @JOHNSCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Aanya Shah
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksander Kapetanovic
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Where Service Meets Sophistication
Fully Independent Senior Residences
A private retreat in Atlanta’s finest neighborhoodVillage Park Milton’s luxury residences feature a suite of new wellness amenities and services Our private cottages and bungalows offer unparalleled independence, connected to a rich suite of amenities, experiences, and social outings. And from our floral boutique and full service salon to our bar and restaurant lounges, you’ll be met with an unparalleled standard of hospitality and intention.
Call today for availability on Milton’s most coveted senior residences.
(470) 291-4258 | 11950 Alpharetta Hwy
VillageParkMilton com |
Coffee, Juices, Toast, Repeat
Toastique opens its doors in Johns Creek, serving up gourmet toast, juices and artisan coffee. The owners celebrated with a ribbon-cutting alongside Johns Creek Chamber members. Welcome them and enjoy one of their freshly made smoothies, açaí bowls or cold-pressed juices. 3005 Old Alabama Road Suite #160, Johns Creek. 470-294-2961 Toastique.com/pages/johns-creek
Students Earn State Championship
Congratulations to the Student Leadership NORTH Secretary of State Ambassadors for becoming the Georgia Secretary of State Ambassador State Champions. Student Leadership NORTH empowers students from local high schools to interact with business and government executives to lead positive change within their communities.
MJCCA's Fundraising Feat
The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta raised $640,000 for scholarships at the 18th annual MJCCA Fifth Third Harry Maziar Classic Golf Tournament at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek. Proceeds will fund scholarships for MJCCA’s three preschools, MJCCA Day Camps and Camp Barney Medintz overnight camp, ensuring that families who need financial assistance can access a wide range of MJCCA programs.
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As a board-certified and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Julia Kang is highly specialized in plastic surgery of the eyelids. As a true eyelid specialist, Dr. Kang is an expert in her field regarding any type of eyelid concern, both cosmetic and medical. Dr. Kang is also an expert injector in Botox and fillers and aims for only the most natural appearing results, believing in a ‘less is more” approach.
Joan Kearney says Cinnamon is cute, social and spontaneous
VILLAGE PARK SENIOR RESIDENTS LOVE THE JOY AND COMPANIONSHIP OF THEIR PETS
THE BEST MEDICINE
Lucy, Cinnamon and Flint see each other now and then and may stop for a polite greeting. Otherwise, they prefer to blaze their own trail, or better yet, plop down in a lap for a nap.
Along with their friends, Azzy, Flint and Panda these pups are living their best lives with their favorite humans at Village Park Alpharetta. Pets are welcome at all Galerie Living properties including Corso
Judy Mckinley says Lucy is both social and shy
Margaret Miskell says Muddy is social and kind
Jane Foy says Panda is very friendly and curious
Sue Souerwine says Flint is friendly and cute
Panda strikes a pose in the Village Park lobby living room
Joe & Sharon Patti say Azzy is funny and relaxed
Fred Wright with Addie and Maverick
Muddy runs and plays all day at Village Park
Residences and Village Park Senior Living communities. With dog parks, waste stations, water bowls and the freedom to walk the campus with their pet, these seniors feel the warm welcome.
"I really think pets make a huge difference for seniors. They bring companionship, unconditional love, and give people a reason to get up and stay active every day," says Francisco Marcano, Life Enrichment Director at Village Park. "They also help residents meet and connect with each other. It's always fun to see conversations start just because someone stopped to say hello."
Bungalows and cottages, independent and assisted living and memory care homes are scattered across the pretty campus. Residents can have the care, supportive community and elegant lifestyle that fit their needs for today and tomorrow.
Every detail of Village Park works intelligently and dynamically to create a lifestyle and community focused on social, physical and mental wellbeing. By designing the entire community for assisted living, we help residents age in place independently or with a spouse to develop lasting relationships with their neighbors, caregivers and chefs, in a home that adapts to their needs.
At Village Park, care is a catalyst, not a conundrum. The team offers compassionate care through customized care plans and regular wellness assessments. Personalized support enhances communication and the care experience, giving residents peace of mind and the freedom to spend their time the way they want.
And for these pets and their humans, this freedom means more games of fetch, more safe walks and plenty more cuddles.
on location at Village Park Alpharetta.
VillageParkSeniorLiving.com
CorsoResidences.com
GalerieLiving.com
Shot
At Dentistry at Ivy Falls, Dr. Joshua Kim and Dr. Gene Chung believe that every smile tells a story—and they’re here to help yours shine. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll experience dental care that’s personal, comfortable, and genuinely caring.
Whether you’re here for a routine visit or exploring a full smile transformation, you’ll always be treated like family—with the time, attention, and expertise you deserve.
Real care. Real connection. Real results. Because your smile deserves more than just routine.
Josh Kim & Dr. Gene Chung
Young Composer Wins National Recognition
In a not-so-distant future overtaken by endless winter, a sentient robot faces an impossible choice: save himself and abandon humanity’s last survivors, or sacrifice everything in the frozen wasteland of Winter’s Edge. Set against a heavy metal score, the song written by JCHS graduate Rett Bush explores survival, loyalty and what it means to be human.
Rett was among a very select group named as winners in the National Endowment for the
Arts (NEA) and National Alliance for Musical Theatre (NAMT) 2025-2026 Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge for High School Students.
This program provides student writers with an unparalleled opportunity to develop and showcase original musical compositions that could potentially become part of full-scale musical theater productions. The winning songwriters traveled to New York City to work with mentors and refine their songs for a special concert at New World Stages.
“Honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, this year’s Songwriting Challenge celebrates the nation’s rich artistic heritage and creativity by shining a spotlight on musical theater. National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Mary Anne Carter said, “Through their original works, these winning songwriters are helping to shape the future of this uniquely American art form. We are honored to support these students as they continue to develop their craft, share their stories and contribute to the enduring tradition of musical theater in the United States.”
Rett is a recent graduate of Johns Creek High School and is bound for the University of Georgia in the fall with an intended double major in Political Science and Economics. Throughout high school, he performed as an actor on the Johns Creek stage and played metal shows around the Atlanta area with various bands. His first performance with a band was at the Johns Creek Battle of the Bands in 2024. He plans to keep performing, composing and recording music in addition to his studies in college.
Johns Creek’s Rett Bush writes about survival and sacrifice.
BOOSTING ACADEMIC SUCCESS
ARTICLE BY JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
JOHNS CREEK FAMILIES TURNING TO MUSIC EDUCATION
“Singing in front of an audience has made Siya more poised and confident.”
As kids head back to school this month, a growing number of parents are rethinking extracurricular activities—not just as enrichment, but as essential tools for academic and personal development. At The Music Studio Atlanta’s Johns Creek studio, this shift is playing out in real time.
Local educators and parents are increasingly recognizing that music education supports more than artistic expression—it plays a meaningful role in children’s cognitive and social growth. From improved focus and memory to increased confidence and emotional resilience, music training is becoming a strategic part of back-to-school routines.
“Parents are looking for ways to help their children feel more prepared and confident heading into the school year,” said Cecilia Rowe, Founder and CEO of The Music Studio Atlanta. “We’re seeing students gain not only musical skills, but also
the ability to concentrate longer, manage challenges and express themselves more effectively—skills that directly translate into the classroom.”
In Johns Creek, the Muddasani family has had a wonderful musical experience with the Music Studio. “Our daughter, Siya, loves the Music Studio,” says Vijay Muddasani. “She just recently performed at an open mic and sang some of the songs that she has been practicing.”
Siya’s mother, Preethi Muddasani, adds, “Singing in front of an audience has made Siya more poised and confident, and we all love watching her perform.”
Research has shown that structured music training can strengthen executive function, enhance memory and support emotional development in children. These benefits are particularly relevant as students adjust to increasing academic and social demands.
“Parents are constantly telling me that after just a few months of music lessons, they demonstrated noticeable improvements in both focus and self-assurance,” said Rowe. “Having been a musician, a music teacher, a mom and now the founder of The Music Studio Atlanta, I see firsthand the real-life impact and the connection between music education and academic readiness,” said Rowe. “We have helped countless families explore how music education can best shape their student’s success.”
The studio offers both in-studio and in-home instruction in piano, voice and a variety of instruments for students of all ages and skill levels.
TheMusicStudioAtlanta.com
Siya Muddasani at the Music Studio open mic
All Kids
Fish
Chattahoochee Riverkeepers make fishing and its community accessible.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CHOE
Judging by the whoop and holler on the beach at Lake Lanier, you’d have thought the girl just landed a whale. Her guide and everyone fishing along the shore cheered and patted her on the back, admiring her catch. She’d worked for it, casting, adjusting movements based on her guide’s tutelage. The sun was beating down so she kicked off her shoes and sunk her toes into the mushy sand at the water’s edge. When she saw the indicator bob, she set the hook, stripped and reeled in a 3” minnow, the catch of her lifetime! The pride, the glee, the victory!
The annual Becca Sue Klein All Kids Fish events inspire the next generation of fly anglers and conservationists through fullday fly fishing retreats. Kids, ages 10 - 18, will learn to assemble and cast a fly rod, tie knots, handle fish safely, select proper gear and learn about how a healthy river sustains life.
At the June retreat, nearly 30 kids from all over metro Atlanta gathered for a oneon-one fishing experience. Founded by fly fishing guru the late Becca Klein, the event’s mission is to cultivate a community that promotes equity and inclusivity so that the kids who participate see themselves reflected in the many volunteers, guides and staff members present. That means that the All Kids Fish program not only welcomes all identities, perspectives and cultures but also celebrates diversity so that each angler feels a true sense of belonging – both on and off the water.
The next event, open to the public, is on October 17 in Helen, Georgia.
Chattahoochee.org
Welcome Back
SCHOOLS OPEN DOORS, OPEN HEARTS.
ARTICLE BY JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
A warm welcome at Ivy Kids
Ivy Kids of Johns Creek
9970 Medlock Bridge Rd, Johns Creek IvykidsJohnsCreek.com
Ages 6 weeks to 12 years.
Ivy Kids of Johns Creek offers early childhood education and care for children from 6 weeks through 12 years old, including infant care, toddler programs, 2-year-old programs, preschool, Pre-K, After-school care and seasonal camps for Elementary. Their mission is to provide premier early childhood education in a safe, engaging and nurturing environment where children
thrive academically, socially and emotionally. They are committed to helping each child build confidence, curiosity, independence and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Ivy Kids believes the start of a new school year should feel joyful, exciting and full of connection. Staff welcomes students and families with meaningful events and traditions that help children feel comfortable, confident and ready for a wonderful year of learning.
Ivy Kids of Johns Creek’s Second Birthday Party and Summer Bash is August 1 with Meet the Teacher Night on August 7. The annual Fall Festival is on October 22.
“Ivy Kids believes the start of a new school year should feel joyful, exciting and full of connection.”
Bright eyes at Ivy Kids. Photo by Rannulf Media
Making Learning Accessible
Discover Circle brings mentors and students together for success.
When the world shut down in 2020, students everywhere lost access to extracurricular activities. For countless kids, the resources that helped them grow academically and personally over the summer disappeared overnight.
So Discovery Circle was founded: a free online learning initiative designed to connect young students with coaches who could teach them everything from extracurricular skills, like music, art and coding to academic subjects like math and writing.
Today, Discovery Circle has reached over 500 students across multiple states and countries, hosted more than 300 classes and built a community of 75 dedicated high school coaches who give their time to teach and mentor younger learners. In six years, what began as a simple idea has evolved into a student-driven movement. With no fees or barriers, Discovery Circle has a commitment to accessible learning, giving each student the chance
to discover their passions. With our coaches being high school students, they are able to connect and create a connection with their students.
Over the past six years, I have watched students light up, whether it be from finally understanding a concept or delivering their first speech, and I have watched coaches grow into confident leaders as teachers. This two-way exchange makes our program just as much about developing youth leaders as serving students.
As I look ahead, our goal is to expand Discovery Circle’s reach while deepening its impact on every student and coach. This program has taught me that community service has a way of giving back to everyone involved. I hope to see future student leaders carry our mission forward, creating a lasting impact on future generations.
DiscoveryCircle20.wixsite.com /freeonlinelessons
ARTICLE BY AANYA SHAH
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 11TH
Technology Workshop
Park Place, 3125 Old Alabama Rd 2:00 PM
Each month workshops are held on a different topic. The cost is Free to attend. This month: Photos, Camera and Cloud. JohnsCreekGA.gov
AUGUST 17TH
One Book, One Read: "The Last One at the Wedding"
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library –9560 Spruill Rd. | 5:00 PM
Join neighbors and new friends to discuss the One Book, One Read selection for 2026: The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak. All are welcome!
AUGUST 29TH
5th Annual Rise & Connect Run
Johns Creek | 8:00 AM
Join hundreds of runners and walkers for a scenic, Peachtree Road Race-qualifying event benefiting MARCUS AUTISM CENTER AT CHILDREN'S HEALTHCARE OF ATLANTA. 5th Annual Rise & Connect 5K, 10K, Kids' Fun Run and Wheelchair Fun Race. Enjoy a USATF-certified course, technical T-shirt, yoga warm-up, kids' activities and breakfast at the finish. RunSignUp.com
