Explore & Celebrate 250
ROOTED in ROSWELL Focused on Results
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH REAL ESTATE
As a proud Roswell local and real estate advisor, I’m excited to celebrate my achievement of over $24M in sales last year as well as being named an Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Top Performer for 2026.
While I’m deeply focused on delivering results for my clients, I’m equally proud to be part of this community and to call Roswell home.
I would love for you to join me in celebrating Roswell’s 250th anniversary at this year’s Fourth of July celebration.
Join me on July 4, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Roswell Area Park for live music, entertainment, food trucks and fireworks at sunset.
Let’s celebrate this incredible community together!
JULY CHARITY FEATURES
Each month we’ll highlight local nonprofits and offer simple, impactful ways to get involved.
This July, join me in supporting children with the NFCC Back to School Backpack/Supply Drive and the CDA Back to School Drive.
Permission to Wander
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital — space for exploration. Sometimes it's in those unplanned moments where connections are made, memories are created. Our adventures don't always involve grand trips — they could be as simple as playing a board game on the patio, trying out a new trail, or exploring a new part of town to find a quirky little café.
That spirit of exploration runs through this issue. We'll take you deep into history, celebrating America's 250th anniversary through the lens of Roswell itself — a city whose own story is woven into the very fabric of this nation's journey. We'll head back to the mountains, where an extraordinary group of veterans has found brotherhood, healing, and peace on the water one fly fishing trip at a time. We'll also introduce you to a remarkable organization working tirelessly behind the scenes to support those same veterans — providing counseling, equipment, and compassionate care for those carrying burdens the rest of us rarely see. Closer to home, we open the doors of Roswell Country Club's home tour, where craftsmanship, and community pride are on full display, all for a great cause. And we'll take you beyond city limits to discover the breathtaking scenic spots that make Georgia one of the most quietly extraordinary states in the country. Each of these stories is a reminder that exploration takes many forms. Sometimes it's a mountain trail. Sometimes it's a beautifully designed home. Sometimes it's standing in a place where history was made and feeling it in your bones. This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore — whether it's a spontaneous road trip or simply making time for the people and places that remind you why this life is worth living fully.
Take the long way home, and see what you find new in Roswell and beyond. Happy exploring!
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Tran Bui Smith | tran.smith@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Kelly Lobuglio | kelly.lobuglio@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin.@citylifestyle.com, Jeff Fischer | jeff.fischer@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Mike Thomas | mike@mikethomasgroup.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Albright Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Wendy Edwards, Tran Bui, Caroline Ficken
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
inside the issue
Tapestry of Generations
Roswell’s
A Brotherhood Built on the Water
Veterans
Scenic Georgia
Dramatic
Roswell Country Club Home Tour
How
Roswell's America250: Tapestry of Generations celebration all month long continues as events across the city are set behind the backdrop of lamppost flags dedicated to the 250th anniversary of America!
Photography: Albright Photography
#100,
city scene
1: Roswell High's Robotics Team OSCAR earned finalist honors, Team Spirit Award, and championship qualification 2: Northwood Elementary School's bowling team finishes the school year strong with teacher sponsors 3: Ava Huyen Smith celebrates graduating from Roswell High School with mom Tran Bui, publication director.
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Bob Clarkson Inducted Into CENTURY 21 Hall of Fame
For more than a decade, Bob Clarkson has been a standout in real estate, earning the top agent title at CENTURY 21 Connect Realty for 10 consecutive years and ranking as Georgia’s No. 1 independent agent for five straight years. Beyond real estate, he actively supports organizations including Roswell NEXT, Roswell Rotary, Roswell Inc, and Be THE Voice.
STS Welcomes Nan Marchand as New President and CEO
The Southeast Tourism Society has announced the appointment of Nan Marchand as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. Bringing more than three decades of leadership experience in the travel and tourism industry, Marchand is recognized for driving growth, strengthening member engagement, and building successful teams across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. “I’m honored to join an organization that has spent decades championing the Southeast tourism industry,” said Marchand.
Meer Electric's Family AffairCelebration Award and 40th Anniversary
Roswell Rotary honors Rick Meer with The 2026 Elwyn Gaissert Sr. Service Above Self Award. This prestigious award is given to a Roswell Rotarian who exceeds their motto of #ServiceAboveSelf everyday! The Meer Electric organization is also celebrating their 40th year anniversary being in business locally! The Meer family was proud to celebrate together this accomplishment.
Pictured left to right: Kelly Meer, Peter Meer, Rick Meer, Judy Meer, Anna Marie Meer, and Cierra Whitten.
Roswell Officially Opens New E-911 Emergency Communications Center
By repurposing former SharpShooters property instead of constructing a new building, the City saved taxpayers tens of millions of dollars while creating a state-of-the-art public safety center. This facility replaces Roswell’s previous 911 operations center with a modern emergency communications hub built to serve the community for decades. Designed to Category 4 emergency operations standards, the center includes full-building backup power systems, next-generation technology, expanded dispatch capacity, upgraded workspaces, and dedicated wellness areas for dispatch personnel.
CONTINUED >
Financial Relationships Built on Trust.
North Fulton Leaders Gather in Washington, D.C.
True North 400 team joined the GNFCC in Washington. The Fly-In trip brings business and community leaders together in the nation’s capital to discuss federal priorities shaping the continued growth of the region.
Discussions covered issues impacting Georgia, including taxes, development, infrastructure, healthcare, AI and tariffs. U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach spoke on the national economic landscape and opportunities impacting businesses across Georgia, helping ensure local needs remain part of state and national dialogue.
Roswell Partners with State and Federal Agencies Bringing World-Class Veterans Care
The City unanimously approved Memorandum of Understanding with Georgia Department of Veterans Service and Service Foundation to collaborate on the planning, funding, and development of a new long-term Veterans’ care center. Roswell is the only city in Georgia to step forward with an application. “Roswell has always championed our veterans. This facility would elevate that commitment to a world-class level,” said Mayor Robichaux, I am proud that Roswell is stepping up to lead the way.”
Dr. Aaron Larsen
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
BEHIND THE PEOPLE THE PEOPLE BUSINESS
HOW ONE ROSWELL FAMILY BUILT A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED HR COMPANY BY COMBINING EXPERTISE, TRUST AND GENUINE HUMAN CONNECTION.
Roswell resident Debbie lived on coffee and sixteen-hour work days for two years. She had the idea, secured the funding, built the prototype, hired the team, launched the marketing and opened the doors. However, when it came to handling her human capital, she was at a standstill. Labor law, compliance and risk management had her frozen. Who did she find to help? Flex HR came to the rescue!
Flex HR was founded by Jim Cichanski, a 26-year Army National Guard Colonel, to help business owners like Debbie stay focused on the vision that inspired them to start their company in the first place, while leaving the complexities of human resources to seasoned professionals with decades of collective experience. With the support of his daughter, Jamie Sieja, and son-in-law, Steve Sieja, Jim has built a company that blends the expertise of a full-service HR firm with the personalized care and values of a family business.
“I founded Flex HR in 2001 by asking, ‘What keeps business owners up at night?’ In brief, the answer is most companies don’t receive the quality of HR service that they should. The
Jamie, Dylan, Luke, pup Hazel and Steve Seija
founding concept of Flex HR is to take the human resources burden that so many small, mid and large-sized business owners and managers feel regularly and turn that into a feeling of confidence knowing that their HR is being properly handled and thriving under the guidance of Flex HR,” says Jim.
With nearly 80% of businesses outsourcing at least some HR functions to help manage rising costs and increasing complexity, Flex HR has developed a customized approach for every client. Each business is paired with a dedicated HR expert who takes the time to deeply understand the company’s goals, culture and priorities, allowing Flex HR to thoughtfully navigate the highly nuanced challenges that modern businesses face. Following this principle has led Flex HR to be recognized six times as an Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Company.
Jennifer Morehead, CEO of Flex HR believes their highly personalized service builds trust that leads small to mid-sized companies to feel confident their human capital needs will be met flawlessly. Jennifer states, “We partner with businesses to provide expert-led, outsourced HR and payroll solutions that reduce risk, save time, and
support company growth. Our clients choose outsourcing because it allows them to operate with the sophistication of a larger organization—without the overhead of building everything in-house”.
However, building a successful company that helps so many doesn’t materialize overnight. In many ways, the wheels were already in motion when Jamie was still in middle school and she and Jim first discovered how naturally they worked together. One of their earliest collaborations involved building a life-sized robot entirely out of soda cans, a quirky project that quietly foreshadowed the creative partnership to come. Over the years, they tackled home projects side by side and even volunteered together with Habitat for Humanity alongside WSB’s Clark Howard. So when Flex HR was still in its infancy, it felt only natural for Jim to turn to Jamie for help creating a promotional letter for the budding company, a task she eagerly embraced.
Jamie remembers, “It was a family effort putting major hours into folding the letters, stuffing envelopes, printing labels, etc. to get the mailing out. Pretty sure I got paid with a Starbucks gift card for that job but I was pumped for it.”
Jim and Jamie, father/daughter team
The Atlanta Flex HR Team
"FLEX HR HAS BEEN A WONDERFUL NEW BEGINNING FOR US AS A GROWING ORGANIZATION. THEIR DEDICATION TO CLIENT SERVICE AND DOING WHAT IS RIGHT HAS BEEN AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR TRANSITION TO A MORE MANAGEABLE HR PROCESS. GROWING OUR HUMAN CAPITAL BY OVER 50% IN ONE YEAR WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN AS EASY AND SEAMLESS WITHOUT THEIR HELP AND SUPPORT. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM TO ANY BUSINESS IN NEED OF ADDITIONAL HR SUPPORT.” ~ACE (ACCESS TO CAPITAL FOR ENTREPRENEURS)
At the same time Jamie was discovering her passion for creativity and marketing, another important piece of the story was falling into place. She and her future husband, Steve, had been unknowingly living remarkably parallel lives. They both were born in the Chicago area, moved to Georgia, then attended neighboring high schools and even crossed paths at many of the same high school events without ever realizing it. It wasn’t until they both arrived at Auburn University that their paths finally converged. They quickly realized their connection felt destined from the start, culminating in a proposal and marriage that anyone would say was their destiny.
Together, Jamie and Steve would eventually move to Roswell and bring their own creative and strategic strengths into the growing family business, helping Flex HR evolve from a fledgling company built on relationships into a nationally recognized HR partner grounded in the same family-centered values on which it was founded. Jamie remembers, “Steve was always on the creative side of marketing while I was on the strategic and analytical side. These contrasting strengths complemented one another in an effort to help Flex HR along the way”.
Whether vacationing in Hilton Head, cheering on Auburn football, dining at local favorites like Grana, The Standard or 1920, or cruising Canton Street in their Bronco with their two boys and dog Hazel, the founding members of Flex HR have always prioritized connection. Deeply rooted in the North Fulton community, the family believes those strong personal relationships and shared experiences are not only central to their lives, but also the foundation of a successful business.
As Flex HR celebrates 25 years in business, its success can certainly be measured in the companies it has helped grow, the risk reduction provided for businesses and the countless clients who now rest a little easier at night. But perhaps the company’s greatest accomplishment cannot be found in spreadsheets or compliance reports. It can be found in the rare privilege of a father and daughter building something meaningful side by side; turning years of trust, hard work and shared vision into a business rooted not only in expertise, but in family, community and genuine human connection.
flexhr.com
Family celebrating at Auburn
HR That Works
As Hard As You Do
RECRUITING
HR
HR
ROSWELL FIREFIGHTERS
GAIN ADVANCED EQUIPMENT FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE EMERGENCIES
As electric vehicles become more common on local roads, the Roswell Fire Department is taking proactive steps to stay prepared for the unique challenges EV fires can present. Roswell First Responders Foundation has purchased specialized equipment designed specifically for electric vehicle fire suppression and safety response.
"The Roswell Fire Department is fortunate to have partners like the Roswell Rotary Club and the Roswell First Responders Foundation standing alongside us. Their $10,000 investment in this specialized EV equipment directly strengthens our ability to protect the people of Roswell. As electric vehicles become more common on our roads, having the right tools and training is critical, and this kind of community collaboration is exactly what makes Roswell a special place to live and serve." This is a great example of what's possible when community organizations and public safety work together, says Fire Chief Trobel.
The Foundation applied for the grant late last year, recognizing the growing need for advanced tools as EV ownership continues to rise across metro Atlanta. The equipment was purchased through Ten-8 Fire & Safety and is now officially in service with the department.
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE
NEW GRANT-FUNDED SUPPRESSION BLANKETS AND MISTING SYSTEMS HELP ROSWELL FIREFIGHTERS SAFELY RESPOND TO GROWING ELECTRIC VEHICLE FIRE RISKS.
The purchase includes two EV Fire Suppressor Blankets measuring 25 by 33 feet and two EV Suppressor Mistors. The blankets are designed to help contain dangerous lithium-ion battery fires, while the misting systems assist in cooling batteries and reducing the risk of reignition during emergency response situations.
The investment reflects Roswell’s continued commitment to public safety, innovation, and equipping first responders with the latest technology available. Department leaders say the equipment will provide firefighters with additional protection and enhanced capabilities when responding to incidents involving electric vehicles.
https://www.roswellfirstresponders.org/ https://www.roswellgov.com/government/ departments-division/fire-department/
Chief Trobel and deputies, Micheal Hernandez , Turmmie Patrick at Roswell Rotary check presentation
ROS WELL’S AMERICA250 CELEBRATION CONNECTS HISTORY, CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY THROUGH EVENTS HONORING GENERATIONS PAST AND FUTURE.
ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI
TAPESTRY OF
GENERATIONS
As communities across the country prepare to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the City of Roswell is creating a celebration designed to feel local, personal, and community-driven. Through its “America250: Tapestry of Generations” initiative, Roswell is tying its own history, culture, and people into the larger story of America.
According to Tiffani Armstead, the initiative was inspired by the opportunity to connect Roswell’s story to the national Semiquincentennial celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“Roswell has a rich history shaped by generations of residents, businesses, civic leaders, artists, veterans, and families, and this initiative allows us to reflect on that shared legacy while looking toward the future,” said Armstead.
The theme “Tapestry of Generations” reflects the many people and experiences that have shaped Roswell over time while also serving as a nod to the city’s textile and industrial roots.
“This celebration is more than a series of events,” Armstead explained. “It is a year-long community initiative designed to bring people together through history, culture, public art, music, storytelling, and civic engagement.”
Throughout 2026, America250 programming will be woven into Roswell’s signature events while introducing new cultural and educational experiences. Featured events include PLAY: A Celebration of Chinese Music – Bridging East and West, Joe Gransden’s Sinatra: An American Icon, Quilters, A Musical, and the Juneteenth Artists Market.
For more information and current event listings: roswellgov.com.
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 superhero 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.
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MAGNOLIA BALL 2026
AN EVENING UNVEILED: BEHIND EVERY MASK IS A STORY
ROSWELL'S MOST BELOVED SOCIAL TRADITION RETURNED WITH MASKS, MUSIC, AND A MISSION TO PRESERVE HISTORY FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.
Nearly 300 guests gathered at the Marriott Windward on May 16th for the 41st Annual Magnolia Ball, Roswell’s most anticipated and fun social event. This year’s masquerade-themed celebration, “An Evening Unveiled: Behind Every Mask is a Story,”
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALBRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
focused on Bulloch Hall stories of history, preservation, and community. Guests enjoyed a lavish evening of dining, dancing, and fellowship wearing a beautiful array of masks while raising funds for the continued preservation of the beloved 1839 landmark. Proceeds from the event will help restore historic carpeting and address other much-needed improvements, ensuring that Bulloch Hall remains a treasured community asset for generations to come.
Nancy Alterman, Co-Chair; Bob Hagan, President Friends of Bulloch Inc; Karen Schwank, Co-Chair
Mayor Mary & Rory Robichaux
Bob Hagan, Platinum Sponsor Table with former Mayor Kurt Wilson and City Council member Allen Sells
Roswell Women's Group
Roswell Rotary
Magnolia Ball Committee
Drs. Betty & Tom Price, Diamond Sponsor table
Sons of The American Revolution
Karen & Charlie Schwank, Gold Table Sponsor, with Mayor Mary & Rory Robichaux
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Scenic Georgia
Dramatic landscapes within easy reach of metro Atlanta
ARTICLE BY CAROLINE FICKEN
Summer in Georgia makes it easy to look for places that feel a little outside the normal routine. Within a few hours of Decatur, some landscapes range from colorful canyon walls to deep river gorges and clear mountain streams. These places stand out because of how unusual they look compared to most of the state.
Here are four outdoor destinations that are especially striking for a July day trip.
A CANYON OF COLOR IN SOUTHWEST GEORGIA
Providence Canyon State Park is one of the most visually unusual landscapes in Georgia. The park features a system of deep gullies with walls layered in pink, orange, red, and purple soil. The patterns are clearly visible from the rim and change depending on the angle of the light.
The canyon formed in the 1800s due to erosion caused by farming practices that exposed loose soil. Rain gradually carved the land into the formations seen today. The result is a canyon system that resembles landscapes typically associated with the western United States rather than Georgia.
Visitors can walk the rim trail for broad views of the canyon system or take lower trails into the gullies. Inside the canyon, the scale becomes more dramatic, with tall walls rising on both sides and narrow paths winding through the terrain. The lighting shifts throughout the day, with softer tones in the morning and stronger reds and oranges in the afternoon.
Tallulah Gorge State Park is one of the most dramatic natural features in the state. The gorge is nearly 1,000 feet deep and about two miles long, shaped over time by the Tallulah River. The river continues to flow through the gorge today, passing over a series of waterfalls that drop more than 500 feet in total.
From the rim, visitors can see steep rock walls and the river far below. Multiple overlooks provide different angles of the gorge and waterfalls, making it easy to understand the scale of the formation.
One of the park’s most notable features is the suspension bridge that crosses the gorge at a narrow point. It provides a direct view down into the canyon and across to the opposite cliff walls.
For those who hike, the rim trails offer accessible viewpoints. A permit system allows limited access to the gorge floor, where a steep staircase of more than 600 steps leads down to the river. At the bottom, the river moves through rocky sections and calmer pools surrounded by vertical rock walls.
A DEEP GORGE CUT BY WATER AND TIME
A MOUNTAIN FOREST BUILT AROUND CLEAR WATER
Smithgall Woods State Park is a protected area in the North Georgia mountains known for its limited daily access and well-preserved forest environment. The park is centered around Dukes Creek, a cold mountain stream known for its clarity and trout population.
Dukes Creek runs through a forested valley with hardwood trees, shaded trails, and small clearings. The water is clear enough in many areas to see fish moving through the stream.
Trails follow sections of the creek and extend into the surrounding forest. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The limited visitor capacity helps keep the area less crowded than many other parks in the region.
RIVER WETLANDS NEAR THE CITY
Chattahoochee Nature Center provides direct access to river and wetland habitats along the Chattahoochee River. The site includes boardwalk trails, forest paths, and wildlife habitats focused on native Georgia species.
The wetlands are home to turtles, herons, fish, and other wildlife that can often be seen from the elevated walkways. River otters are among the most active animals on site and are frequently visible in their habitats.
The center also offers canoe access to the Chattahoochee River. Paddling routes pass through sections bordered by trees, rocks, and shoreline habitats where wildlife is often visible.
In addition to outdoor areas, the center includes exhibits and rehabilitation spaces for birds of prey and other native animals.
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
These four destinations show how varied Georgia’s outdoor environments can be within a relatively short drive of metro Atlanta. Providence Canyon offers unexpected desert-like geology, Tallulah Gorge shows dramatic river-carved cliffs, Smithgall Woods preserves a quiet mountain stream ecosystem, and the Chattahoochee Nature Center connects river and wetland habitats close to the city.
Each place is different in scale and setting, but all of them stand out for how unusual they feel compared to what most people expect to find here in the Peach State.
May Georgia never stop surprising us...
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THE BATTLE AT HOME AFTER FINDING HOPE
For years, Corey Collins fought battles most people around him could not see.
The United States Marine Corps combat veteran served as an Infantry Rifleman with 3rd Battalion 7th Marines and deployed to Iraq. But after returning home, the war inside his own mind became harder to escape than anything he experienced overseas. Mental health struggles, substance abuse, isolation, and hopelessness slowly took control of his life.
“My life had unraveled to a point I never thought I’d reach,” Collins shared. “I felt lost and overwhelmed.”
At his lowest point, Collins says he felt completely disconnected from reality and from himself.
“There was a constant weight on my chest, like I was drowning in my own thoughts with no way to come up for air,” he said.
The situation became so severe that he found himself facing legal trouble tied to actions he could not even remember.
“I was battling extreme mental health struggles that spiraled into serious legal trouble, including being arrested on two charges that I still don’t even remember committing,” Collins explained.
For many veterans, asking for help can feel impossible. Pride, fear, shame, and the pressure to stay strong often keep people suffering silently. Collins admits he was not ready to seek support the first time he encountered the Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation (BKVF).
His introduction to the organization happened unexpectedly during a meeting at the gym with founder Christopher Cathers.
“He shared what the foundation stood for and how it supports veterans who are carrying burdens like mine,” Collins said. “At the time, I wasn’t ready to accept that help, and I walked away without getting connected.”
Months later, everything changed.
While Collins could not bring himself to ask for help personally, his wife Sarah made the decision for him.
“That single act of love and courage became the turning point that saved my life.”
Founded in 2020, Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation was created to address Post-Traumatic Stress Injury and provide support for veterans and active duty military personnel navigating mental health challenges. The foundation was built by Christopher Cathers, whose own experiences in Special Forces, the CIA, and personal battles with Post-Traumatic Stress and cancer inspired him to create a place where veterans could find understanding without judgment.
Following Cathers’ passing in February 2026, Special Forces veteran Rob Vaughan stepped into leadership to continue the mission.
“From the realization of being medically retired from active duty, I had a very strong need to give back,” Vaughan shared.
Today, the organization focuses on meeting veterans wherever they are emotionally, mentally, and physically.
“BKVF is a veteran non-profit that meets the veterans where they are,” Vaughan explained. “Whether that is a survive, stabilize or thrive need.”
The foundation provides assistance with housing, claims support, sober living programs, therapy resources, service dogs, and virtual support groups. It also works directly with veterans struggling with their mental health.
Marine veteran Corey Collins
Vaughan believes the public often underestimates the depth of the crisis facing veterans.
For Collins, the organization became more than a support service. It became a lifeline.
“When I first met Chris and he shared parts of his own personal struggles, it immediately broke down the walls I had built,” Collins said. “There was a level of honesty and vulnerability in the way he spoke that you can’t fake.”
That honesty helped Collins begin opening up about struggles he had buried for years.
“On top of that, the fact that many of them are veterans created an unspoken bond,” he said. “There’s a mutual understanding that doesn’t always need to be explained.”
Through Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation, Collins received weekly therapy, attended Warriors Heart for intensive mental health and substance abuse treatment, and connected with specialized traumatic brain injury recovery care through the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
“For the first time in a long time, I’ve developed a stable and healthy mental baseline,” Collins said. “I’m no longer living in constant chaos or survival mode.”
Today, he says he is thriving in school, rebuilding relationships, and becoming more present for his family.
“I am now the husband my wife deserves and the stepfather my stepdaughter needs,” he shared.
While conversations surrounding veteran mental health have become more common in recent years, Vaughan says stigma still prevents many people from seeking care.
“PTSD is looked upon as a damaged individual with the stigma of a disorder,” Vaughan explained. “The brain has been damaged and can be repaired, but treatment must be sought out.”
He also stresses that healing is not one-size-fits-all.
“The treatment that works for me doesn't necessarily mean that it will work for you.”
For Collins, one of the most important messages he hopes other veterans hear is that asking for help is not weakness.
“Take the step,” he said. “Living in that darkness, in that constant state of ‘the suck,’ is far more exhausting and damaging than facing the discomfort of change.”
He hopes veterans who feel trapped understand they are not alone.
“There are people who understand, who have been in that same place, and who genuinely want to see you come out the other side.”
For Collins, that first step ultimately gave him something he thought he had lost forever: hope.
To learn more about the organization, visit BKVF.org.
Rob Vaughan, Chris Cathers & Ron Griffin supporting veterans
Corey Collins & wife Sarah
More Reasons to SMILE
Cosmetic, implant & general dentistry for the family. An international leader in cosmetic, implant and general dentistry for more than three decades, Dr. David Mastro’s patients travel world-wide for his Atlanta cosmetic dentistry and report that he is one of the country’s top cosmetic and general dentists. Not your ordinary dentist, not your ordinary dental office.
Dr. Mastro is a unique dentist with his artistic expression developed through years of hand crafting crowns, veneers and bridges. Today, with the aid of the most advanced technology available, Dr. Mastro can care for patients’ complete dental needs from oral surgery and implants to fillings and general cleanings. Dr. Mastro is legendary for quality dentistry and for transforming smiles for people from all walks of life. Before and
The Man Behind the Paint
Roswell's very own Jay Pitroff has deep community ties rooted in family, faith and business
What first drew you and your family to Roswell, and what has made this community feel like home over the years?
My first exposure to Roswell occurred when my wife, Colleen and I were looking for a Catholic church to attend with our young children. We started going to St. Peter Chanel. We started to love Roswell so much, we went all in…Before long, Colleen was in charge of youth ministry for that same church, my son was attending Blessed Trinity High School, and I was running a painting business – all in Roswell!
You’ve been deeply involved in the community, from coaching baseball to supporting local families. Why has giving back always been important to you?
I was raised to always observe and be thankful for what I have whether it be food on the table, a great family, friends, my health, or simply having been born in this great country. I have discovered that I’m able to leverage my painting business as a vehicle for giving to others. CertaPro Painters of Roswell supports several charities
including the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Family Promise of North Fulton —Dekalb, and Habitat for Humanity.
As a business owner, why was Roswell the right place to build and grow your CertaPro Painters business?
I was looking to make a career change in 2016 and exit financial services after 23 years, and I was always intrigued by business ownership. Roswell seemed like a natural fit at the time and still does. It was and is a vibrant community that is thriving. It’s where people want to be and the culture is second to none. I was certain that if my company did a good job for the residents of Roswell, we would grow and be successful.
Coaching youth sports often teaches leadership, patience, and teamwork. How have those experiences shaped the way you lead your company and connect with customers?
My dad set a great example while coaching me when I was a young baseball and basketball player. I always considered it a
The Pitoffs, Jay, Colleen, Jack and Carter
real accomplishment if I could get my kids to work together as a team to achieve success. It’s the same in business. The only way we win is if we all rally around a common goal, with the customer front and center. This kind of alignment doesn’t just happen. It takes strong coaching and leadership.
When you think about your purpose—both personally and professionally—what impact do you hope your family and business leave on the Roswell community?
I am fortunate in that my company has truly developed into a “family” business. Colleen, my wife of 32 years, runs the office, as well as commercial projects. My oldest son, Jack, is the project manager for residential painting and my youngest, Carter, does our social media marketing. We paint 500+ homes and commercial buildings every year, but some projects are more fun and rewarding than others...such as the Roswell High School Football stadium, or the rehab of a home for Habitat for Humanity. The looks on the faces of the players, or the homeowner that needed a helping hand were worth remembering for a long, long time.
On a perfect Roswell weekend, where would we find you and your family spending time together?
I love to play golf with my two boys. We are members at Brookfield Country Club and try to get 18 holes in most Sundays. My dad and I had a special bond and much of it developed on the golf course, much like I get to do with my two sons currently.
certapro.com/roswell/
EXPLORING ROSWELL COUNTRY CLUB
How a neighborhood home tour is funding creative employment for young adults with developmental differences.
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE
The Willow Springs Tour of Homes on April 26th was nothing short of extraordinary. Hosted by Treible Sullivan of Ansley Real Estate, the event drew an incredible turnout, and the community’s enthusiasm helped raise vital funds for art supplies and artist compensation for The Papillon Place.
At the heart of this growing nonprofit is a powerful mission: to open a working art
studio that provides meaningful artistic employment and creative engagement for young adults with developmental differences. Through collaborative projects, salable artwork, and community connections, Papillon Place is building a space where artists of all abilities can create, contribute, and truly belong.
Learn more at thepapillonplace.org.
Cathy Treible, Donna Sullivan and Kelly Lobuglio
Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetery & Mausoleum
Dedicated to serving the local community with the highest standards of excellence and commitment to compassionate care since 1839.
From our beautiful chapel to our 52-acre cemetery, every aspect of Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery is thoughtfully designed to honor your loved one and the traditions that are important to your family.
There are many choices involved in planning a funeral. It is our experience, that having gone through the stress of funeral arrangements, many people want to consider the benefits of advance planning. When you plan-ahead, you can design every detail of your own final tribute and protect your loved ones from unnecessary emotional and financial burdens.
To get started we have created a comprehensive journal called the Personal Planning Guide, contact us anytime at (770) 993-4811 to receive your complimentary copy.
“When it’s important, we plan for it ahead of time.”
Calming Teas Instant Pain Relief CBD Pet Treats
Local Cravings
Spotlighting standout dishes that keep diners returning to beloved restaurants.
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE
Be sure to visit and check out some of Roswell's hot spots featured to explore, dine out and discover what makes them each special!
Brewable
Where Great Lunch Meets Greater Purpose: Brewable Roswell’s January Specials Shine
Brewable Roswell's rotating lunch specials are unbeatable: pick two items for $10 or all three for $14.50. This January, choose from a signature quiche, fresh mandarin orange almond salad with zesty tarragon dressing, and soup of the day. Pair it with fresh coffee or a pastry. When you order, you're supporting meaningful employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Open weekdays 8am–2pm and Sundays 9am–2pm, these thoughtfully crafted meals come from a kitchen that sees every plate as an opportunity to build community, one lunch at a time.
Madrid
Spanish Taverna
Paella is the heart of Spanish comfort food, and at Madrid Spanish Taverna, Tapas and Wine Bar, it’s a true showstopper. Each paella is crafted with saffron-infused rice, layered flavors, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients that honor tradition while satisfying modern cravings. Guests can choose from a variety of paellas, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any craving or occasion. For the full experience, order a few tapas to start before enjoying the show as the paella arrives. Ideal for dine-in or easy to-go enjoyment. Come try the paella or any of Madrid’s amazing traditional Spanish dishes.
signature quiche- Brewable
Madrid's signature paella and tapas
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.
SAVED BY
BELLE: THE
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE
First Belle Brunch transforms the morning school bell into an opportunity for women to gather, unwind, and build community.
SIP. SAVOR. SOCIALIZE.
We survived summer—now it’s time to celebrate.
Join us for the 2nd Annual First Belle Brunch, North Fulton’s favorite back-to-school tradition and the event everyone is buzzing about. This elevated, thoughtfully curated brunch is designed to empower women, strengthen community, and build meaningful connections—one brunch at a time.
Enjoy a live DJ, on-site massages, curated shopping, exciting giveaways, a special takehome activity to enjoy with your children after school, and plenty of surprises along the way.
Whether you’re a mom of young children, a seasoned mom with graduates, an empty nester, or simply looking to connect with other incredible women in the area, this is your chance to sip, savor, and socialize before the school year begins.
Let’s raise a glass to friendship, community, and the amazing women who make it all happen. 10% of proceeds will benefit a local school in need.
Grana Roswell / Monday, August 3, 2026 / 10 AM–1 PM
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-belle-brunch-tickets-1990628815373?aff= oddtdtcreator
