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Sha'ir Rolle of the Month
Football / Track / Baseball
Participated in Band GPA- 4.31 weighted, 3.75 unweighted
Sha'ir Rolle is the complete student-athlete; an explosive playmaker, proven leader, and standout scholar. A varsity football player at Campbell High School, he earned the program's Best Playmaker Award as a sophomore and was selected to the Football Leadership Team entering his junior season. His speed also shines in track and field, where he won the 2026 JV Cobb County Championship in the 100-meter dash and helped lead the county champion 4x100 relay team. Off the field, Sha'ir maintains a 4.0 GPA in the rigorous International Baccalaureate reflecting the discipline, character, and work ethic that make him an exceptional college prospect.
"Sha'ir
Rolle is the type of student-athlete every coach hopes to have in their program. He possesses the talent, work ethic, leadership qualities, and character necessary to be successful in athletics, academics, and life." -
Coach Jeff Phillips,
Head Football & Track Coach, Campbell High School
From the Editor: The Good Stuff
Dear Readers,
There is a certain kind of August energy that feels impossible to explain unless you are living inside it.
The calendars start filling up again. Backpacks come out of closets. Practice schedules, school emails, forms, appointments and reminders all seem to arrive at once. Everyone is trying to get back into a routine while also pretending we remember what a routine even is.
And if you have pets, they are absolutely part of the production. They are underfoot, on the papers you just organized, or staring at you like they would very much like to speak to a manager about the sudden change in household energy.
And the truth is, I love it.
Not because it is calm. It is not. Not because it is easy. It rarely is. But because somewhere in the middle of all the noise and motion, there is so much good stuff.
I have always believed you can tell a lot about a community by what it makes room for. Room for children to grow into who they are becoming. Room for young adults to be encouraged and believed in. Room for families to slow down and make memories. Room for nervous little ones to feel safe. Room for pets to be known, loved and treated like the main characters they absolutely believe themselves to be.
And honestly, most of the time, they are not wrong.
This issue is filled with those kinds of stories: young adults finding confidence through CobbWorks, students gaining room to wonder at St. Benedict’s, families casting a line at GB’s Lake, children discovering that a trip to the dentist can feel gentle and even fun, horses helping families find connection and calm, and two sisters caring for Smyrna pets with familiar faces and trusted hands.
You will also see stories of leadership, belonging and purpose, from a mother and daughter learning to lead side by side to a community rallying behind Campbell student athletes.
And you will see it in Noah Shields, whose story is one of my favorites this month. Once comforted by Mighty Millie popsicles during treatment, Noah is now helping bring that same joy to other children. That kind of full-circle goodness gets me every time.
And because this is Smyrna, we are also celebrating the color, creativity and personality Brush & Box Fest brought to downtown.
That is the good stuff.
With love,
STACEY SCOTT, EDITOR
August 2026 Visit our Instagram
PUBLISHER
Burke Scott | burke.scott@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stacey Scott | stacey.scott@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Evie Cook | evie.cook@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Evelyn Scott | evelyn.scott@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stacey Scott, Sean O’Keefe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ashley Putnam, Brandon Carter
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
At 7 Oaks Stables, kids discover that some of the best lessons come with muddy boots, gentle giants and the kind of handson moments that stay with them long after summer ends.
Photography: Ashley Putnam
city scene
@STBSINSTA
@LICKERS_WHINES
@SMYRNAPARKS_
@SMYRNAPARKS_
@STACEYCSCOTT
@MOZAIKCARE
@SMYRNAVININGSCITYLIFESTYLE
1: St. B’s 8th graders ended the year with smiles, style and celebration. 2: A little footwork, a lot of community and one worldwide record attempt. 3: Dr. Lindsey Beauboeuf and family brought big team spirit to match day. 4: Cup Daze brought neighbors, jerseys and big cheers to the Village Green. 5: Three cheers for the Lickers & Whines grads heading into their next chapter. 6: Cobb County friends brought Southern sunshine all the way to Tel Aviv. 7: Running on sunshine, community and a very cute Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle tank.
@SMYRNAPARKS_
8: Troop 220 made patriotism a hands-on project in downtown Smyrna. 9: Smyrna Little League’s 7U team swung big and brought home the state title. 10: The Scott Family added their flag to Smyrna’s patriotic display. 11: Smyrna Little League’s 9U team made championship threepeat magic. 12: NICE CATCH! Brothers Korbin & Kamden Harmon Fishing on Lake Oconee during Summer Break. 13: Guardians of the Jukebox brought the hits, and these Smyrna friends brought the fun. 14: Proof that patriotic pride comes in every size.
SMYRNA LITTLE LEAGUE
SMYRNA LITTLE LEAGUE
LATONYA HINES
KYLE HARMON
Birthday
and Elizabeth brought the fun to Our Giving Garden. 16: The 2025–26
shop dog
Council takes one final bow.
always on crumb patrol. 19: Gus the mini doodle made his Smyrna Vinings debut with
understood the assignment: sit pretty, look adorable, steal hearts. 21: Lily her pup, Chela, are match-day ready, with extra cheers for Argentina and Mexico.
15:
boy Kessler
Smyrna Youth
17: Blingle Lighting’s hardest-working
is
mom Kristen. 20: Ghost
REGAN ZOTTNICK OF @MEATSTOSWEETS
22: Bandanas on, smiles out and ready for their close-up. 23: Smyrna Vinings style looks extra charming on this happy face. 24: Kathryn Hofman’s Hawkeye brought senior-dog sweetness and serious style. 25: This four-legged fan came dressed for the match and the compliments. 26: Bijou came for the vibes, stayed for the pink drink photo-op. 27: Hobbes and Dobby brought Great Dane greatness to the local scene. 28: This sweet pup brought big smiles and excellent Smyrna Vinings style.
ROUNDUP OF
Sadie Leaves a Pawprint on Cobb Schools
After 11 years of service, K-9 Sadie has officially retired from the Cobb County School District Police Department. Since 2015, Sadie and Officer Marshall Duling have helped support safe, drug-free learning environments across Cobb Schools through proactive narcotics detection efforts. Known for her friendly personality and strong work ethic, Sadie became a beloved presence among students and staff. Following a special retirement ceremony, Sadie will enjoy a well-earned retirement at home with the Duling family.
One Year of Miles and Community
Smyrna Run Club recently celebrated its one-year anniversary the best way it knows how — by bringing the community together. The celebration honored the countries, cultures and stories that make the group so special, with support from Big Peach Running Co., ASICS, Code Blue Entertainment, Xela Threads and StillFire Brewing. Smyrna Run Club meets every Monday evening at Stout Brothers for anyone interested in running, connecting and building community.
Smyrna Physician Recognized as Healthcare Leader
Dr. Lindsey Beauboeuf, founder of MOZAÏK Lifestyle Medicine in Smyrna, was recently named a Black Health Connect 40 Under 40 honoree. The Class of 2026 recognizes emerging pioneers transforming healthcare delivery, and honorees were celebrated at the annual Black Health Ball on June 27. Through MOZAÏK Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Beauboeuf is reimagining primary care with a focus on meaningful relationships, cultural proficiency and genuine connection. Learn more at mozaiklifestylemedicine.com
Photography by @cobbschools
Photography by @smyrnarunclub
Photography by @mozaikcare
New Website, Same Compassionate Care
Atlanta Innovative Counseling Center has launched a new and improved website designed to better serve clients and make connecting with the practice even easier. Visitors can learn more about the center’s counseling services, approach and team, while finding helpful information in one convenient online location. Atlanta Innovative Counseling Center remains committed to providing compassionate support for individuals and families. Visit the updated website at atlantainnovativecounseling.com.
TRADE
When your young musician levels up, we'll trade in their instrument toward a better one.
OUTGROW THE ORCHESTRA? WE'VE GOT YOU
If band or orchestra isn't for them, we'll buy the instrument back. No guilt, no garage clutter.
Smyrna Kicks Into the Record Books
Smyrna helped make history in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup by joining a global Guinness World Record attempt for the most size 5 soccer balls juggled simultaneously for 10 seconds. Hosted locally by the City of Smyrna, Smyrna Parks and Recreation and Cobb Travel & Tourism, the June 6 event brought participants to Village Green Park for music, local vendors and freestyle soccer before 511 people across 43 cities successfully completed the challenge. Visit KickItInCobb.com .
A Polished Win for Conceit Nail and Beauty
Congratulations to Quinese Arnold of Conceit Nail and Beauty, who proudly represented Smyrna while competing for the first time in Nailympia at Premiere Orlando, one of the world’s largest and most respected nail competitions. Among many talented entrants, Quinese placed fifth in both the Reality Nails and Runway Nails categories, marking an exciting milestone for her and Conceit Nail and Beauty. Learn more at conceitnailandbeauty.com
Helping Those Who Serve Smyrna
When Smyrna’s first responders face life’s toughest moments, the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation is there to help. Since the beginning of the year, SPSF has awarded more than $20,000 through its Benevolence Fund to support local public safety personnel and their families during times of injury, loss or unexpected hardship. Every donation helps provide financial assistance and peace of mind for Smyrna’s heroes. To learn more or contribute, visit spsf.org .
Photography by @SMYRNAPARKS_
Photography by @conceitnailsandbeauty
Photography by @smyrna_psf
A New Space for Growing Smiles
Schwartz Dentistry for Children recently completed a new addition designed to better serve teen and young adult patients. The space features a beautiful wildflower-themed mural painted by professional muralist Margo Perkins, capturing the essence of growth and the free-spirited nature of the teenage years. The team invites families to stop by, see the new space and share what they think. Visit Schwartz Dentistry for Children at 500 Concord Road SE in Smyrna.
• Professional Wash & Fold
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• Residential & Commercial Laundry
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Photography by Schwartz Dentistry for Children
SUMMER SUN TO FALL FUN
At Smyrna Prep, we celebrate the joy and wonder in every season. For over 15 years, we have helped children develop confidence in the classroom and achieve long-term academic success. Schedule a tour to "Fall" in love with our unique academic preschool program, located in the heart of Smyrna Market Village. Now enrolling students from 18-months through Kindergarten.
Schedule your appointment today! elevate your smile
As your local State Farm® agent, I’ll be there whenever you need me with Good Neighbor service you can count on. Give me a call. Since 1989 I have been active in Vinings. I have sponsored the Vinings Downhill 5K for over 25 years as a member of Vinings Rotary Club.
Lisa J Dobbs Ins Agency Inc
Lisa Dobbs, Agent
2675 Paces Ferry Rd SE Ste 460, Atlanta, GA 30339-4089
Bus: 404-365-8515
lisadobbs.com
State Farm, Bloomington, IL Proud to
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY PUTNAM
Through CobbWorks, young adults are finding support, confidence and a path toward what comes next.
Building Futures
Like a B.O.S.S.
There is something powerful about watching a young person begin to believe in themselves.
Sometimes it happens quietly. A little more eye contact. A little more confidence in an interview. A résumé they are proud to hand over. A plan where there used to be uncertainty.
Sometimes it happens in bigger ways — earning a GED, completing a training program, landing a first real job or discovering a career path that finally feels possible. At CobbWorks, those moments matter.
LaDonna Huggins (l) and Sonya Grant (r) of CobbWorks.
Through the B.O.S.S. Young Professionals Program, CobbWorks is helping young adults ages 16 to 24 gain the skills, support and encouragement they need to move toward meaningful careers and more stable futures. B.O.S.S., which stands for Bold, Open, Skilled and Successful, is a no-cost workforce development initiative designed for young adults who are ready to grow, with special attention given to those facing barriers to employment.
And while the program includes practical support — GED completion, job readiness training, résumé help, interviewing skills, career exploration, internships, mentorship, coaching and life skills development — the heart of the work goes much deeper.
Because for many of the young adults who come through the doors, the issue is not a lack of ability. It is a lack of opportunity.
Some participants arrive without a high school diploma or consistent work history. Others are navigating housing instability, transportation challenges, limited support systems or past setbacks that have shaken their confidence.
What CobbWorks sees in them, however, is potential.
The B.O.S.S. Program is built around meeting young adults where they are and walking alongside them as they grow. That may mean helping someone finish school. It may mean connecting them with job training or an internship. It may mean teaching communication, time management or financial literacy. It may mean preparing them for an interview — or simply reminding them they are capable of more than they may currently believe.
That kind of encouragement can be life-changing.
For those involved in the work, it is deeply personal. One program leader shared that, as a first-generation college student raised in a single-parent household, she understands the power of opportunity and the difference it can make when someone extends a hand to help another person move forward.
“WHAT WE SEE IS NOT
A LACK OF
POTENTIAL.
IT’S A LACK OF OPPORTUNITY, SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE. WITH THE RIGHT RESOURCES, ENCOURAGEMENT AND BELIEF, THESE YOUNG ADULTS CAN BEGIN TO SEE A FUTURE THAT ONCE FELT OUT OF REACH.”
That spirit is woven throughout B.O.S.S.
The program is not just about helping young adults find jobs. It is about helping them build confidence, direction and a stronger sense of what is possible.
And the transformation is real.
Terrance came to B.O.S.S. as a high school dropout, working overnight in a warehouse and feeling stuck in a cycle that did not match the future he wanted. Through the program, he earned his GED while continuing to work, then adjusted his schedule to make room for his goals. He later enrolled in school to pursue his dream of becoming a nurse.
Elijah’s story is another reminder of what can happen when the right support comes at the right time. After disengaging from school and feeling unsure of his direction, he enrolled in B.O.S.S., completed his GED and moved into CobbWorks’ PowerUp PreApprenticeship Program. From there, he gained hands-on skills, graduated and secured employment with a local plumbing partner.
Janna’s journey began with uncertainty. She was unsure of her career path and lacked confidence in her professional abilities. Through B.O.S.S., she developed workplace skills, discovered an interest in healthcare and was connected to an internship with the H.E.R.O. Institute. That opportunity eventually led to a position and a clearer path forward.
Different stories. Different paths. The same thread running through all of them: when young people are given support, structure and someone in their corner, they can begin to see a future that once felt out of reach.
CobbWorks does not do this work alone. Partnerships are vital to the program’s success, connecting participants with real-world experiences, job opportunities and wraparound support. The program works with local employers, schools
and community organizations throughout Cobb County, including Cobb County and Marietta City Schools, Cobb Adult Ed, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, Cobb Accountability Courts, the Center for Family Resources, the Warrior Alliance, Vocational Rehabilitation and Job Corps, among others.
Those partnerships help create pathways. They also remind the community that investing in young adults is not charity. It is smart, hopeful, necessary work.
The young people served by B.O.S.S. are resilient, capable and full of potential. They may not always have had access to the resources or support systems others take for granted, but with guidance and opportunity, they can thrive and become valuable contributors to the community.
At the heart of it all, B.O.S.S. is about believing in young people before they fully believe in themselves. It is about helping them take the next right step. And sometimes, that is exactly where a future begins.
To learn more, contact WorkSource Cobb / CobbWorks at 463 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 100, Marietta, GA 30060, call 770.528.4300 or visit worksourcecobb.org.
Horses Lead WHERE THE
At 7 Oaks Stables, families are finding connection, confidence and a peaceful place to simply be.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY PUTNAM
There are some places that ask you to slow down the moment you arrive.
At 7 Oaks Stables, it may happen as you pull through the gates and see horses grazing across the green hillsides. Or maybe it happens when a child reaches out a tentative hand and discovers, sometimes to their own surprise, that they are braver than they thought.
For Tessa and Robert Swarthout, 7 Oaks is more than a stable. It is a dream built from memory, healing, hard work and a deep belief in what horses can offer.
Born and raised on a cattle ranch in western Nebraska, Tessa grew up horseback. Barrel racing was something she only got to do once a year through 4-H, but it was always her favorite event. When she moved to Georgia for college, she left horses and the western way of life behind.
Then, more than 18 years later, after the sudden passing of her grandfather, horses found their way back to her. In many ways, they helped heal her heart.
That return grew into something much bigger. Alongside Robert, Tessa expanded the dream, added to the herd and built a place where others could experience the peace and transformation horses had brought back into her life.
Today, 7 Oaks offers an elevated equestrian experience for horse owners, riders, families and anyone longing for more open space and less noise.
Its mission is rooted in care, confidence and connection. Horses are cared for with excellence. Riders are encouraged to grow. Owners can have peace of mind knowing their horses are treated like family. Families are invited to create memories that feel simple and meaningful.
For horse owners, that care is reflected in the details of the property itself. From hillside pastures and a 100-by-200-foot covered arena to premium footing, stall mattresses, dual fans in each stall and thoughtfully designed barn and common areas, 7 Oaks was created with both beauty and function in mind. It is a place where horses can be cared for with excellence, and owners can feel at home, too.
At 7 Oaks, the hope is not simply to offer riding lessons, but to help students build a foundation in horsemanship — learning how to ride, understand, respect and communicate with horses. Beyond the lesson program, the broader vision is to create a community where riders, owners and families feel supported, inspired and connected.
CONTINUED >
That connection can be especially powerful for children.
Horses are intuitive animals. They notice what we bring with us, often before we do. A nervous child, an uncertain teenager, a hesitant hand — horses respond honestly and immediately. That feedback can become a quiet but powerful teacher.
For children and teens, time with horses can build confidence, patience, responsibility, self-awareness and trust. Learning to communicate with a horse requires calm, consistency and respect. It asks a child to pay attention not only to the animal, but also to their own body language, energy and emotions.
And when that connection clicks, it can be unforgettable.
One young camper arrived at 7 Oaks afraid of horses. She was only six years old, and on the first day of camp, she admitted she was scared. By the end of the week, she had grown confident enough not only to be around the horses, but to ride and guide them.
VISIT 7 OAKS STABLES
Located at 320 Cooper Lake Rd SE in Mableton, 7 Oaks Stables welcomes families, riders and horse owners to experience its peaceful equestrian setting. To learn more, call 404.282.5025, email hello@7oaksstables.com or visit 7oaksstables.com. Follow along on Facebook at 7 Oaks Stables and Instagram at @7oaksstables.
“There are some places that ask you to slow down the moment you arrive.”
Those are the moments that stay with people.
Tessa and Robert often hear from parents and grandparents who remember having access to horses when they were young. Decades later, they are looking for ways to offer that same experience to their children and grandchildren. For many families, 7 Oaks creates that opportunity close to home.
What could have become another neighborhood is now a peaceful oasis for horses and humans alike. Instead of driving hours to the mountains or beach in search of an escape, families can come to the barn, unplug for a while and find something restorative right in their own backyard.
Looking ahead, Tessa and Robert are dreaming about more ways to welcome the community. By the end of the year, they hope to offer special events, family memory-making opportunities and various horse therapy services.
Their heart is to provide a setting where families can step away from daily life and into moments that invite them to be fully present.
To be where their feet are. To breathe a little deeper. To make memories without wishing they were anywhere else.
For Tessa, Robert and the 7 Oaks herd, sharing the gift of horses is at the heart of it all. That includes Gunner, the beloved “kid” of the barn, who has already gathered quite a fan club among those who have watched him grow. The joy comes from seeing others enjoy the space, experience the horses and create memories of their own.
Because sometimes, a horse is not just a horse.
Sometimes, it is a teacher. Sometimes, it is a bridge. Sometimes, it is a reason to slow down, soften and remember what matters.
And sometimes, if you are lucky, it leads you exactly where you need to be.
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42 Beer/Cider Taps | 3 Wine Taps
Unique snacks, weekend food vendors & family friendly atmosphere. Dogs welcome!
Monday - Thursday 11-9
Friday & Saturday 11-10:30 Sunday 11-8
(770) 319-8200 | 1265 West Spring St, Ste. D, Smyrna, GA www.thestoutbrothers.com/smyrna-ga-beer-market V smyrnastoutbrothers B The Stout Brothers - Smyrna
For 75 years, Trinity School has cherished childhood while preparing students for the future. Focused on children age three through Sixth Grade, our small class sizes, exceptional teachers, and innovative programs help students thrive at Atlanta’s only independent school dedicated exclusively to elementary education.
Discover more at an Open House: October 22 December 8 and 9 November 10 January 12 trinityatl.org/admissions
AT SCHWARTZ DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN, IMAGINATION AND TRUST HELP YOUNG PATIENTS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON CARTER
THE SMILINGEST
SHOW ON EARTH
The first clues appear before the appointment even begins: a circus tent over one doorway, a cheerful ticket window near the front, a giraffe painted on the wall, and a sweeping mural that seems to bring the whole space to life.
Then there is the sign declaring, “The Smilingest Show on Earth.”
At Schwartz Dentistry for Children, these details are more than whimsical touches. They reflect a practice thoughtfully designed with children in mind.
For kids and parents alike, a visit to the dentist can feel overwhelming. New sights, unfamiliar sounds and unfamiliar faces can make even the most confident child feel uncertain. For some parents, memories of their own dental experiences may quietly resurface, too.
But inside this freestanding pediatric dental practice on Concord Road, the space seems to offer a gentle reassurance before anyone says a word: this place was made for you.
Dr. Aaron Schwartz, DDS, MPH — known to many young patients simply as “Dr. Aaron” — describes the office as almost like a fun house, a storybook setting filled with creativity, calmness and warmth. It is playful without feeling chaotic, cheerful without feeling overwhelming, and clearly designed around the way children see the world.
“It’s a unique destination,” Dr. Aaron says. “Schwartz Dentistry for Children captures its own incomparable vibe that kids of all ages appreciate.”
The practice has a long history in the community. Dr. Aaron established Schwartz Dentistry for Children in 2011 after taking over the practice originally built in 1982. It was one of the first pediatric dental practices in the Atlanta metro area, and families once drove from all over the region to bring their children there.
They still do.
Today, the practice primarily serves families from Smyrna, Vinings, Marietta, Mableton and the surrounding communities, though Dr. Aaron says people continue to come from farther away. Part of that may be the setting. Part of it may be the long-standing reputation. But much of it seems to come back to something harder to measure and easier to feel: trust, commitment and continuity of care.
CONTINUED >
For Dr. Aaron, pediatric dentistry is not just about teeth. It is about relationships built slowly over time. It is about knowing the child in front of you, understanding the parent beside them and creating an experience that feels steady enough for both. It is also about prevention, guidance and helping families feel less alone as they navigate each stage of childhood.
It is about the quiet privilege of growing alongside families — watching infants become curious toddlers, toddlers become confident children, children mature into teenagers, and teenagers blossom into young adults ready to find their place in the world.
“Longitudinal care is extremely important to my mantra in dentistry,” he says. “We are able to witness countless children growing up in the community, doing exceptional things with their lives, growing into amazing young adults. It’s pure magic.”
That kind of care requires more than clinical training, though training certainly matters. Pediatric dentists and pediatric dental teams are specially prepared to help children feel safe, understood and at ease. But Dr. Aaron believes the best pediatric care also depends on patience, compassion and the ability to connect with children in a way that feels natural.
Children are perceptive. They notice tone and energy. They notice whether the adults around them seem calm and steady. When the team feels balanced and connected, the room feels different. For young patients, that can make all the difference.
“My team and I take pride not only in our advanced training and experience, but also in the team culture we’ve intentionally cultivated,” he says.
That team culture is part of what helps children settle in. When children, tweens and teens sense consistency and trust in the
room, anxiety can begin to soften. Quickly, visits become less about the unknown and more about familiarity.
Parents are part of that process, too.
Families often come to the practice with questions that go beyond brushing and flossing — from pacifiers and thumb sucking to diet, toothpaste, orthodontic concerns, airway and sleep questions. Dr. Aaron encourages families to establish a pediatric dental home by age 1 and to build healthy habits early.
For first visits, he encourages parents to keep the preparation simple and positive. Books and shows, such as Daniel Tiger, can help children understand what to expect. He also suggests avoiding words like “hurt,” “scary” or “shots,” which can create worry before a child has had the chance to experience the visit for themselves.
After nearly 20 years in the community, Dr. Aaron continues to believe that the best pediatric dental care begins with personal commitment. As an independent practice owner, he remains actively involved in daily patient care, helping families receive thoughtful, consistent care from trusted providers year after year.
And when asked what part of the work feels most meaningful, he chooses all of it: every smile, every child who leaves more confident, every parent whose trust is earned, every teenager who feels seen and every small moment that becomes part of a much bigger story.
For More Information
Schwartz Dentistry for Children 500 Concord Road SE Smyrna, GA 30082
Phone: 770.436.0802
Email: frontdesk@schwartzkidsdentistry.com
Website: schwartzkidsdentistry.com
Facebook: Schwartz Dentistry for Children
“WE ARE ABLE TO WITNESS COUNTLESS CHILDREN GROWING UP IN THE COMMUNITY, DOING EXCEPTIONAL THINGS WITH THEIR LIVES, GROWING INTO AMAZING YOUNG ADULTS. IT’S PURE MAGIC.”
ROOM TO Wonder
ST. BENEDICT’S IMAGINE CAMPAIGN CREATES SPACE FOR JOYFUL LEARNING, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ST. BENEDICT’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
There are some things children seem to understand instinctively.
A sidewalk can become a canvas. A shady patch of grass can become a classroom. A tree stump can become a lookout point or the beginning of an adventure. A question can become something bigger than the lesson itself.
At their best, schools make room for those moments — the curiosity, the movement, the friendship, the wondering, the trying again. The moments when children begin to discover not only what they are learning, but who they are becoming.
For more than 15 years, St. Benedict’s Episcopal School has been a place where children are known by name, encouraged to ask questions, and given the kind of steady support that helps them grow into curious thinkers, compassionate friends, and confident young people. It is a school rooted in belonging — the kind that shows up in daily rhythms, classroom conversations, chapel gatherings, playground friendships, and the quiet confidence of a child who feels seen.
Now, through its Imagine Capital Campaign, St. Benedict’s is preparing to give those moments more room.
The school has secured a new property on Daniel Street, creating an opportunity to expand the student experience in a way that feels practical and full of possibility. Plans include new green areas, outdoor learning environments, gathering places, and an outdoor innovation lab for hands-on exploration, STEAM experiences, science investigations, creative projects, movement, play, and connection.
But the heart of the story is not the property itself. The heart is what children will be able to do there.
They will be able to step outside the classroom and learn with their hands in motion. They will be able to test ideas, make discoveries, work together, move their bodies, and experience lessons that feel active and alive. They will have more room to run, build, observe, imagine, and simply be children.
For teachers, the space opens new possibilities, too. A science lesson can become an outdoor investigation. A creative project can stretch beyond the classroom walls. Chapel gatherings, performances, summer camp activities, school traditions, and community celebrations can take place in spaces designed to bring people together.
At St. Benedict’s, that sense of togetherness matters.
The school’s approach to education has always centered on the whole child — not only academic growth, but social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development.
is not reserved for some far-off day. The planned improvements are designed to enrich the daily lives of current students, giving today’s children more room to learn, play, gather, and grow.
In many ways, this is the next chapter in a story St. Benedict’s has been writing from the beginning.
The school has always been community-built — shaped by families, faculty, alumni, and supporters who believe in investing in children. The Imagine Campaign continues that tradition, creating spaces that reflect what has long been true at St. Benedict’s: children thrive when they are known, supported, challenged, and loved well.
“This is not just about adding space to a campus. It is about making room for wonder.”
Outdoor learning supports that vision, giving children a chance to engage their senses, take healthy risks, collaborate, and build confidence in a setting that encourages curiosity.
It also creates space for connection. A child learns beside a friend. A teacher notices a spark of interest. Families gather for a tradition. Students feel the comfort of belonging to a community invested in who they are becoming.
While the Daniel Street property is part of St. Benedict’s long-term vision, including the foundation for a future middle school campus, its impact
This is not just about adding space to a campus. It is about making room for small moments that become lasting memories — outdoor discoveries, class projects, muddy shoes, chapel songs, friendships, celebrations, and confidence that grows little by little.
It is about making room for wonder. At St. Benedict’s, there is so much still to imagine.
St. Benedict’s Episcopal School 2160 Cooper Lake Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 (678) 279-4300
stbs.org
Facebook: St. Benedict’s Episcopal School Instagram: @stbsinsta
To learn more about the Imagine Campaign and how the community can help bring this vision to life, visit stbs.org/imagine-campaign.
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BIG MOVE, LITTLE HELPERS
Sava Rilak
Specialist
The Hardy Girls and the Case of the Happy Pets
Liz and Ali Hardy bring familiar faces, trusted care and lots of love to Smyrna pets.
Liz and Ali Hardy have always been animal people — the kind who notice the dog at the party before the people, and who understand that pets are family members with routines, quirks, favorite toys, preferred snacks and opinions about where they like to nap.
In many ways, pet sitting found them long before they made a business of it.
Both sisters worked for a pet-sitting company when they were younger, and their dad often encouraged them to do something of their own. In 2018, they took his advice.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a trusted business built on relationships, reliability and care that feels more like calling a friend than hiring a service.
Most often, the Hardy sisters care for cats and dogs. Over the years, their client list has included fish, hamsters, guinea pigs, tropical birds, horses, chickens, rabbits, sugar gliders, ferrets and even a tarantula.
There is, apparently, little they will not try.
For Liz and Ali, the joy of pet sitting is about more than spending time with animals, though that part is certainly a perk. What they love most is offering an act of service.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY LIZ & ALI HARDY
When families travel, leaving pets behind can be stressful. There are schedules to remember, litter boxes to scoop, medications to manage, walks to take, doors to lock and animals who need reassurance. Liz and Ali step in with patience, consistency and care. They are not only caring for pets. They are giving people peace of mind.
That personal feeling is a big part of what makes their business special. It is just the two of them. Clients know who is coming into their home and who is caring for their animals. Often, if clients do not start out as friends, they become friends quickly.
Of course, caring for animals also comes with stories.
One memorable visit involved a front door lock that malfunctioned, leaving only one possible solution: entering through a very small doggie door. Thankfully, there are pictures.
Rolo
There have been sweet moments, too. After one pet-sitting family lost their dog, Liz and Ali helped place a stray dog with them. Rolo became part of the family — and the sisters still get to pet sit for him today.
Stories like that are part of what has made this little venture so meaningful. Through pet sitting, Liz and Ali have made countless connections across Smyrna, one walk and furry introduction at a time.
Their community ties have helped the business grow naturally. Liz is a familiar face at Stout Brothers in Smyrna Market Village, and Ali manages Dr. Ofek Chiropractic. For many clients, seeing them around town adds comfort when handing over the keys, the alarm code and the care of a beloved pet.
It matters to know the person holding the leash, opening the back door or sitting with the nervous cat until it decides everything might be okay.
For Liz and Ali, trust is at the heart of pet sitting. Their advice to pet owners is simple: do your research and find someone who feels right. This is not just about finding someone to fill a food bowl. It is about finding someone who will care for your pet, your home and your peace of mind.
After years of dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, sugar gliders and one very memorable tarantula, the Hardy sisters are grateful for every family who has trusted them.
Because in the end, pet sitting is not just about animals. It is about loving people well by loving their pets well, too.
Follow along on Instagram: @hardysisterspetsitting
Ali & Liz Hardy
From Popsicles to Purpose
For most children, a popsicle is simple. Sweet. Sticky. Gone in a few minutes.
For Noah Shields, it became something more.
Noah, now 8 and a rising second grader at Smyrna Elementary School, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2023, shortly before his fifth birthday. What followed was more than any child should have to endure: nine months of chemotherapy, radiation and three surgeries.
Through it all, his mother, Emily Shields, says Noah was brave.
Today, Noah is thriving. This spring, he reached two years off treatment — a major milestone for his family — and this summer, he will attend his first survivor clinic appointment.
“You would never know what he has been through if you met him,” Emily says.
During treatment, when Noah was sick and had little interest in food, popsicles were often the easy win. They were something he could enjoy, even after surgery. Something small that could still bring a smile.
The Shields family later learned those hospital popsicles were part of the Mighty Millie Popsicle Project, a program of the Mighty Millie Foundation, which provides organic popsicles to children undergoing cancer treatment and helps fund childhood cancer research. The foundation was created in honor of Millie, whose life and joy continue to inspire families throughout the childhood cancer community.
Once comforted by Mighty Millie popsicles during treatment, Noah Shields is now helping bring that same joy to others.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY EMILY SHIELDS
Noah Shields joined Mayor Derek Norton and community supporters for Smyrna’s Childhood Cancer Awareness proclamation.
The connection came through Veronica Tompkins of Good Kitchen, a longtime Smyrna community champion known for bringing people together around health, support and meaningful causes. When Noah was newly diagnosed, Emily met Veronica at Good Kitchen, where she found not only nutritional guidance, but encouragement and connection with other families who understood.
“It was a beautiful example of how amazing our Smyrna community is,” Emily says.
As Noah’s family became more involved with Mighty Millie, one idea felt like a perfect fit: a popsicle stand.
With Good Kitchen hosting and Mighty Millie providing the materials, Noah invited classmates and his sister to help. Last September, his Mighty Millie popsicle stand raised nearly $800. When Mayor Derek Norton heard about Noah’s efforts, he recognized him at the city’s Childhood Cancer Awareness proclamation — and matched the amount raised.
For Emily, watching Noah stand before the crowd was deeply meaningful.
“I don’t think he remembers much about being in treatment, but he is beginning to realize what an incredible journey he has been through,” she says. “Seeing him now want to give back and think about other kids in his situation
Emily
with their children, Noah and Lena.
resulted in some of the most special and profound feelings as a parent.”
And, she adds with a laugh, Noah has “no issue asking people for money.”
That confidence is part of who Noah is. Emily describes him as kind, curious, creative and incredibly smart. Even in the hospital, before he was 5, he wanted to understand exactly what was happening. His family drew pictures of anatomy and explained the “bad cells” in his body. These days, Noah loves soccer, board games, card games and reading — sometimes under the covers after bedtime.
This fall, Noah hopes to make his popsicle stand even bigger, possibly near StillFire Brewing, with more friends helping in shifts.
It is a small idea with a big purpose: kids helping kids, one popsicle at a time.
To learn more or support the Mighty Millie Foundation, visit mightymillie.org
Kenneth and
Shields
Noah Shields’ Mighty Millie popsicle stand raised nearly $800 for children undergoing cancer treatment — a sweet idea with a big purpose.
During treatment, Mighty Millie popsicles offered Noah Shields a small but meaningful moment of comfort.
Ashley Schau, DO Northside Primary Care - Smyrna
Jason Schon, MD, CAQSM Northside Hospital Orthopedics - Smyrna
Nickolas Reimer, MD Total Joint Specialists - Smyrna
CAST A LINE, MAKE A MEMORY
FAMILY-OWNED SINCE 1955, GB’S LAKE OFFERS SMYRNA FAMILIES A WELCOMING PLACE TO FISH, GATHER AND SPEND TIME OUTDOORS.
Tucked away on Hurt Road in Smyrna, GB’s Lake has been part of the community for generations. Established in 1955, the family-owned fishing destination includes an 18-acre lake and a one-acre pond, regularly stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, trout and crappie.
But for manager/operator Dontre’ Weaver, GB’s Lake is about more than what someone might reel in. It is about creating a clean, safe and welcoming place where people of all ages can slow down, learn something new and enjoy time outside.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY PUTNAM
“GB’s Lake has always been centered on fostering a welcoming and family-oriented environment,” Weaver says. “We want this to be a place where people can learn, relax, build skills, enjoy time together or experience the joy of catching their first fish.”
That family-friendly spirit is a big part of what makes GB’s Lake special. With peaceful views and plenty of open space, the property can accommodate a quiet afternoon of fishing, a larger family outing, a picnic, a cookout or simply a few hours away from screens and schedules.
For parents looking for something simple and outdoorsy to do on the weekend, fishing offers a chance to make memories without overcomplicating the day.
Weaver says introducing children and families to fishing is one of the most meaningful parts of what they do.
“Most children are thrilled at the sight of a large fish,” he says. “We encourage parents to take their children fishing because it is a fun and safe way to introduce them to a lifelong skill.”
For some visitors, GB’s Lake is already part of their own childhood story. Weaver says people often stop by and share memories of catching their very first fish there when they were six or eight years old.
Those stories are part of what motivates the GB’s Lake team to preserve the tradition of fishing while also welcoming a new generation of families. Recently, the team had a booth at the Smyrna Spring Festival, giving more local residents a chance to learn about the lake and what it offers.
“We enjoy participating in community events and festivals because it gives us a chance to introduce GB’s Lake to the public,” Weaver says. “Many families are looking for weekend outdoor activities, and fishing is a great option.”
One of the features that makes the experience easier for guests is the bait and tackle shop located at the entrance. Visitors are greeted by friendly staff and can find bait, tackle, snacks, drinks and ice on-site. The team can also help with bait and tackle recommendations, rod and reel setup, and pole rentals for those who do not have their own equipment.
That convenience helps take some of the intimidation out of fishing, especially for newer visitors.
GB’s Lake is also growing its fishing community through its ProStaff team, led by Weaver and captained by Arnold “Sniper” Galvis and Chavo “The Bassinator” Britt. The team currently includes 12 members and continues to expand, with members bringing knowledge of different fish species, techniques and the lake itself. Some have been fishing at GB’s Lake since the late 1970s.
For Weaver and the GB’s Lake team, the hope is simple: keep the tradition alive, make fishing approachable and give families a place to enjoy being together.
GB’s Lake is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per person, per day, and children ages 0–9 enter free. No fishing license is required. A $5 GB’s trout stamp, purchased on-site, is required to keep trout.
GB’s Lake 400 Hurt Rd SW Smyrna, GA 30082 (470) 606-2928
Instagram: @gbslake
Facebook: GB’s Lake
THE HEART BEHIND THE SPARTANS
Marching Band
The Campbell Spartan Athletic Association is rallying community support for athletics, school spirit and student success.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY
PROVIDED
There is something special about the energy surrounding Campbell High School athletics.
It is there on Friday nights, when the lights come on, the stands begin to fill and the sound of the marching band becomes part of the heartbeat of the evening. It is there in the student-athletes who push through one more drill, the coaches who pour into their teams, the families who rearrange schedules around games and practices, and the volunteers who quietly make so much possible.
At Campbell, athletics has always been about more than wins and losses. It is about pride. Belonging. Discipline. Teamwork. Community.
Now, the Campbell Spartan Athletic Association is working to strengthen that foundation for the future.
Officially established on November 3, 2025, with board elections held later that month, the Campbell Spartan Athletic Association was formed by community leaders, parents, school administrators and athletic supporters who saw an opportunity to create a more coordinated, long-term way to support Campbell’s athletic programs and facilities.
The goal is not simply to raise money. It is to help build the kind of student experience that reflects the pride Campbell families already feel.
Jamie Michael, president of the Campbell Spartan Athletic Association, said the organization was created to unite the community around a shared vision for the future of Spartan athletics.
“Our student-athletes deserve facilities and resources that match their commitment, effort and potential,” Jamie said.
That vision reaches across the full Campbell athletic experience — including the athletes who compete, the marching band members who bring game day to life and the families and fans who make Spartan pride feel like a true community effort.
CONTINUED >
Baseball
Swimming
Cross Country
Basketball
Of course, bringing a vision like that to life takes more than school spirit alone.
The association’s current priorities include a digital stadium scoreboard and PA system, a new turf practice field, lights for the tennis courts and practice fields, an updated weight room, paved parking for the softball and tennis facilities, additional locker room space and new concessions and restroom facilities at the stadium.
On paper, those may sound like facility needs. In real life, they are the things that shape a student’s daily experience.
A practice field means more safe, usable space for teams to prepare. An updated weight room gives students better tools to build strength and confidence. Improved lighting, parking, concessions, restrooms and locker rooms help families, athletes, band members and fans gather in spaces that feel welcoming and worthy of the community they represent.
And there is a place for everyone in that effort.
“This is not simply a fundraising initiative,” Jamie said. “It is a long-term investment in the students, families and community that make Campbell special.”
That investment is not about one season, one sport or one project. It is about creating something that can serve students now and for years to come.
Community members can support the association by joining the 1952 Club, becoming corporate sponsors, supporting the Shield Program, attending fundraising events, volunteering time or expertise, making tax-deductible donations or helping connect the association with potential business and community partners.
The upcoming Spartan Soiree, scheduled for August 29 at 7 p.m. at StillFire Brewery, will give the community a chance to gather, celebrate Campbell athletics, learn more about the work ahead and support the future of Spartan programs.
For Campbell, this is a moment to look forward while honoring the pride that is already there.
The students are already showing up. The coaches are already pouring in. The band is already playing. The families are already cheering. The spirit is already alive.
Now, the Campbell Spartan Athletic Association is helping give that spirit a stronger foundation — reminding Campbell students that their community sees them, believes in them and is willing to invest in what comes next.
To learn more, get involved or support the Campbell Spartan Athletic Association, visit campbellspartanathletics.org.
Football
Soccer
The Team Behind Your Comfort
AT BEACHES TURKS AND CAICOS, INCLUSIVE FAMILY TRAVEL BEGINS WITH INTENTION, UNDERSTANDING AND ROOM FOR EVERYONE.
THE GIFT OF BELONGING
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BEACHES TURKS AND CAICOS
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
“THIS IS NOT A CONCIERGE SERVICE. IT IS A RELATIONSHIP.”
The world was not designed with everyone in mind. For travelers who are living with intellectual and developmental difficulties, the world’s most celebrated destinations have often felt less like invitations and more like tests they were never meant to pass. A new conversation is emerging within the travel industry, one that asks not merely how to accommodate difference, but how to genuinely honor and celebrate it. What I am finding is nothing short of a revolution in hospitality and it is being led, in no small part by Beaches Resort, Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos. What sets Beaches Resorts apart for families touched by autism is something that cannot be overstated; intentionality. Beaches has long been the gold standard of all-inclusive family travel; their commitment to autism and sensory inclusion places them in a category entirely their own. Certified through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, every one of the Beaches Resort’s more than 2,000 team members has received specialized training in autism awareness and sensory inclusion. The entire resort community is prepared to meet families where they are, creating an environment
“FOR A CHILD WHO THRIVES ON ROUTINE, OR A TRAVELER WHO PROCESSES THE WORLD DIFFERENTLY, BEACHES DOES NOT SIMPLY OFFER A VACATION — IT OFFERS THE RADICAL GIFT OF BELONGING.”
where difference is not tolerated but genuinely understood and embraced. From quiet beach coves to the predictable rhythms of all-inclusive dining and activity, the sensory landscape here is navigable in a way that few resort destinations can claim. Every Beaches experience begins before check-in with a dedicated call to ensure your family’s needs are fully understood from day one.
At the heart of Beaches Resorts’ commitment to autism and sensory inclusion is the Beaches Buddy program which is perhaps the most thoughtful offering in all-inclusive travel today. Each family with a child on the autism spectrum can request to be paired with a trained Beaches Buddy, a dedicated team member who takes the time to understand the child’s unique needs, preferences, triggers, and joys before the vacation even begins. This is not a concierge service. It is a relationship.
The Buddy becomes a trusted, familiar presence throughout the stay; a consistency that neurodivergent travelers depend on and that transforms an unfamiliar environment into something that begins to feel like home. From navigating the water
park to managing mealtimes, from sensory-friendly activity planning to simply knowing when to step back and give a child space to breathe, the Beaches Buddy moves at the pace of the family, not the resort.
Beaches Resort’s celebrated partnership with Sesame Street also brings beloved characters like Julia, the first character with autism, directly into the resort experience. For a child who thrives on routine, or a traveler who processes the world differently, Beaches does not simply offer a vacation — it offers the radical gift of belonging. Here, inclusion is not a policy. It is a promise
The world is changing. The travel industry, long defined by exclusivity, is beginning to understand that its highest calling is not luxury for the few, but belonging for all. When a child who has never felt comfortable in an unfamiliar place runs toward the ocean without hesitation, something profound has shifted. That is the promise of inclusion. That is the future of travel. And it begins with Beaches, Turks and Caicos.
For more information about Beaches Resorts, visit beaches.com
Thomas Sherrer (Left) Austin Tull (Right), Owners
Katie Holland, Pharmacist
Johnathan Hamrick, Pharmacist
Welcoming Griffin Strom to Smyrna!
Griffin Strom, PA-C, is a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant proudly serving patients at Family Practice Center. A native of Alpharetta, Georgia, Griffin is deeply connected to the community and committed to providing high-quality, personalized care to individuals and families across all stages of life.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology, graduating Summa Cum Laude from Georgia Southern University, and went on to complete his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Augusta University. His strong academic background reflects both his work ethic and his commitment to excellence in patient care.
Griffin has a special interest in obesity medicine, preventive cardiovascular care, sports medicine, and diabetes management. He is passionate about helping patients take a proactive approach to their health—focusing not only on treatment, but on long-term wellness, disease prevention, and improved quality of life. Outside of the clinic, Griffin enjoys spending time with his wife and their two dogs. He stays active through hiking, working out, and playing golf, and he’s an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons.
Learning to Lead, Side by Side
Priti Bhatia and her daughter, Saanvi, made Cobb leadership history while sharing a season of growth, service and community.
“Leadership can begin early, continue throughout life and become even more meaningful when it is shared with someone you love.”
When the Goyal/Bhatia family moved to the Atlanta area in 2001, Cobb County was simply where life had brought them. Over time, though, it became much more than that.
After living in several Cobb communities, the family moved to Smyrna in 2012, drawn by the schools, the family-friendly atmosphere and the sense of community that makes this part of town feel so easy to love. For Priti Bhatia and her daughter, Saanvi, Smyrna became the place where they planted roots, built relationships and found opportunities to serve. Recently, that shared heart for community led them into a pretty remarkable chapter.
During the same year, Priti was selected for Leadership Cobb and Saanvi was accepted into Cobb Youth Leadership. They later learned from the Cobb Chamber that this was the first time in the history of the two programs that a parent and child participated simultaneously. What started as a lighthearted family challenge — could they both get accepted? — quickly became something far more meaningful.
For Priti, being selected was especially rewarding. Leadership Cobb was a program she had hoped to join for several years, and this was her third time applying. Being accepted, and ultimately graduating, felt like an honor and a reminder that perseverance really does matter.
As a Georgia Tech professional dedicated to strong communities and thriving built environments, Priti saw Leadership Cobb as an opportunity to better understand the people, partnerships and decisions that help shape Cobb County.
For Saanvi, Cobb Youth Leadership offered a chance to learn beyond the classroom, connect with students from across the county and see how local leaders, businesses, public servants and nonprofits work together to make a difference.
Their programs followed separate tracks, but the experience became beautifully shared. After program days, Priti and Saanvi compared notes, talked through what they were learning and saw leadership through each other’s eyes — one from an adult perspective, one from a student perspective.
In the process, they gained a deeper appreciation for each other’s dedication, responsibilities and growth. They also created the kind of memories that do not come along every day: celebrating milestones together, cheering each other on and discovering new ways to serve the community they both call home.
For Priti and Saanvi, the year reinforced something their family already believed: strong communities are built by people willing to show up, listen, learn and invest in others.
They are also quick to express sincere gratitude to everyone who makes programs like these possible — from organizers and volunteers to speakers, mentors, alumni, community partners, family members and friends, especially Sanjeev Goyal.
Today, they are enthusiastic advocates for both programs and encourage students, parents and professionals to apply with an open mind and a heart for service.
Their shared experience was more than a leadership milestone. It was a reminder that leadership can begin early, continue throughout life and become even more meaningful when it is shared with someone you love.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY PRITI BHATIA
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 PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“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.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
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678-305-7066
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AUGUST 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Hip Hop Legends Live
Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre, Mableton | 6:00 PM
Kick off August with an unforgettable night of classic hip hop at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre. Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Chubb Rock and Kwamé take the stage for a rain-or-shine show packed with throwback favorites. Visit Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre or Ticketmaster for details.
AUGUST 8TH
Community Cleanup in Downtown Smyrna
Downtown Smyrna | 8:30 AM
Love where you live? Show it! Join Keep Smyrna Beautiful for Smyrna Sweep, an age-inclusive litter cleanup giving downtown Smyrna some well-deserved love. This fun, community-building volunteer opportunity is open to all ages, though children under 16 must attend with an adult. Registration is required. Visit Keep Smyrna Beautiful or Hands On Atlanta for details.
AUGUST 8TH
Game
Day
Goes to the Dogs
Georgia Power Pavilion, 800 Battery Avenue SE, Atlanta | 3:00 PM
Bring your leashed pup to Georgia Power Pavilion for a tail-wagging Braves Watch PAWty. Cheer on the Atlanta Braves on the big screen, shop local pet boutiques and enjoy a fun game-day outing with your fourlegged friend. Early RSVP attendees can receive a free dog bandana, while supplies last. Follow The Battery Atlanta on Facebook for updates.
AUGUST 9TH
Good Vibes on Tap
StillFire Brewing -- 2725 King St SE, Smyrna | 3:00 PM
Ease into Sunday afternoon with live reggae from Black Lion Reggae at StillFire Brewing. Grab a cold drink, settle in and enjoy laid-back music, good company and easy summer vibes at one of the area’s favorite gathering spots. Visit StillFire Brewing for more details.
AUGUST 10TH
Purr-fect Family Fun
Sparkles Family Fun Center of Smyrna -- 666 Smyrna Hill Dr SE, Smyrna | 5:30 PM
Lace up your skates for Whiskers on Wheels, a family-friendly roller skating fundraiser supporting Pounce De Leon Cat Rescue. Enjoy music, games, raffles, silent auctions, giveaways and plenty of fun, all while helping cats in need find second chances. Admission is $5. Find tickets and donation details through Pounce De Leon Cat Rescue.
AUGUST 15TH
Good Music, Great BBQ
Mableton Town Square Park, 5315 Church Street, Mableton
Description: | 11:00 AM
Get ready for smooth blues, smoky BBQ and an easygoing summer Saturday at Mableton Town Square Park. Admission is free, with BBQ food vendors on-site and free parking nearby. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks and coolers, but leave outside alcohol at home.Check out mableton.gov for more details.
CONTINUED
AUGUST 19TH
Mahjong at the Barn
Seven Oaks Stables -- 320 Cooper Lake Rd SE, Mableton | 6:00 PM
Seven Oaks Stables invites Mahjong lovers to a fun night of games at the barn. Beginner to advanced players are welcome, with the horses serving as the sweetest audience around. This event is open to ages 11 and up. Tickets are available at 7oaksstables.com/mahjong.
AUGUST 20TH
Sundown Social
City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs | 6:00 PM
Looking for an easy, fun Thursday night? Sundown Social brings live music, yard games, an outdoor bar and plenty of room to relax at Sandy Springs’ City Green. Bring a friend, grab a drink and enjoy a laid-back evening under the summer sky.
AUGUST 29TH
Bike Rodeo Rolls
Into Smyrna
North Cooper Lake Park, 4201 Cooper Lake Road SE, Smyrna | 9:00 AM
Get ready to pedal! Smyrna’s Bike Rodeo at North Cooper Lake Park invites families to bring bikes, water bottles and mandatory helmets for a morning of outdoor fun. Kids can practice bike safety, maneuver obstacle courses and enjoy one of Smyrna’s favorite cycling spots. Visit the City of Smyrna website for updates and registration details.
COLOR OUTSIDE THE BOX
With paint, personality and plenty of community spirit, Brush & Box Fest made public art feel personal.
ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY SMYRNA VININGS LIFESTYLE
For one bright Saturday afternoon, downtown Smyrna felt a little more colorful.
At Village Green, Brush & Box Fest turned an ordinary weekend moment into an open-air art experience, filling the space with friendly conversation, curious onlookers and the kind of creative energy that makes people stop and stay awhile.
The event featured 20 talented artists from across metro Atlanta, each helping transform five 4-by-8-foot utility boxes into bold, beautiful works of public art. What began as blank surfaces quickly became something much more meaningful — murals filled with personality, color, movement and imagination.
Created in support of the City’s Public Art Master Plan, Brush & Box Fest was designed to raise awareness of public art while highlighting the incredible talent found throughout the region. But it also did something public art does so well: it gave people a reason to pause, gather and see a familiar place in a fresh new way.
And the best part? The experience did not end when the paint dried.
The completed mural boxes will remain on display throughout the summer at Village Green in downtown Smyrna before being relocated to another area of the city. So, the next time you are near the heart of downtown, take a little stroll, find a favorite box and snap a photo. You may just discover a new artist to follow — and another reason to love Smyrna.
BRUSH & BOX FEST ARTISTS TO FOLLOW
• Alison Hamil — @alisonhamilart
• Astha Thakkar — @first_things_first_
• Brandon Sadler — @risingredlotus
• Brittani Singleton — @_theartinliving
• Elaine Stephenson — @artsy_elaine
• Emilie Scalise — @emilie_scalise_art
• Eric Nine — @eric_nine
• Igwe Waters — @artbyquay81
• Jaliyah Nicole — @jbrant28
• Kristen Ramsey — @kristenramseyart
• Lacey Longino — @muralsbylaceyandfriends
• Larkin Henry Ford — @larkinford
• Leak Kellaway — @kellawaycreative
• Miles Davis — @massiveburn
• Mungo Ligoya — @mungodoesart
• Oni Culbreath — @onii.lotus
• Rose Wambsganss — @art_by_rose_w
• Ryan Coleman — @ryancolemanstudio
• Trudy Tran — @trudytranart
• Zoya Aly — @zoyathecreatress
