Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“We’re honored that Sterling Estates of East Cobb was Voted Best Assisted Living Community in My East Cobb and that Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized “Best of Cobb” for Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. We’ve been serving Seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now... We invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don’t have the wellness center, green space, programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents period. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... bet yours will too.” ~ Susan S.
With Home Prices so High - Never Been a Better Time to Sell & Move into One of Our Sought After Rental Cottages
Investing in What Matters Most!
Every day, we make investments - not just financial - but investments of time, energy and heart. We invest in our families, our careers, our communities, and the causes that matter most to us. Whether through small daily actions or big, life-changing decisions, the things we choose to support ultimately shape the world around us.
As we enter a new season of decision making, whether in our business, lifestyle or at the ballot box, we're reminded that our voices and actions carry weight. We all have the power to make investments in our future through helping to shape policy, volunteering, and agreeing to leadership roles. We invest in our communities by showing up, lending our talents, investing in community and local businesses and - on a personal level - champion the people and enrich the relationships we truly value.
Personally, I find myself in a season where my greatest investment is in my family. As our children have grown older and step into some of the most important chapters of their lives, I'm reminded daily of how precious time is and how important it is to be present - to truly show-up for the people we love. Prioritizing isn't easy. It's not a choice; it's a commitment we make every day, whether for a moment, a week or a lifetime.
In these pages, you'll find stories of individuals, organizations, community volunteers and civic leaders making meaningful investments - in their passions, their futures, and the future of their neighborhoods.
My hope this issue reminds all of us to leverage time, resources and influence to create meaningful impact. Because at the end of the day, the most impactful investments aren't just about money - they're about what truly matter most.
Sincerely,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rei Kaiser | reikaiser@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Thompson, Wendy Edwards
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Virginia Wolf, CatMax Photography, Maura Roberts Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
by Appointment*
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Circle for Children celebrated charity, friendship and fashion with Precinct 4 Cobb County Police Department 2: Circle for Children's Jennie Johnson, Lynn Thompson, Patty Hogue wearing designs by Angela Kang Cole 3: Chattahoochee Tech, with Cobb Chamber and SelectCobb, honored top technical college students with 2025 Goal Awards 4: National Charity League East Cobb celebrated graduating seniors for their 6 years of commitment! 5: Young Men's Service League of East Cobb's Ultimate Gift Project supports Special Olympics Georgia 6: McKelvey family join Cobb County High School Coalition Habitat build representing Walton High School 7: Pope High School, Cobb County High School Coalition, supports Habitat for Humanity, NW Metro Atlanta
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Third Annual Family-Friendly Roswell Music Festival Celebrates Community
Roswell Music Festival set for Saturday, April 26 brings live music and celebration to Roswell. Legendary rock band Drivin N Cryin along with Frankly Scarlet, Canyonland, Michelle Malone, Cousin Curtiss, Dock Rock Radio, and Penelope Road to perform.
Beyond the music, Roswell Music Festival gives back. Trew Rickers says, "I am personally excited about our charitable partners Shepherds Men, Hop on a Cure and Rock for Rescues”.
To reserve tickets for this family-friendly event visit freshtix.com/ events/roswellmusicfestival-2025
Board of Commissioners confirms Dr. Michael Cunningham New Fire Chief
After serving as the department’s Chief of Staff, Dr. Michael Cunningham takes the role as new Fire Chief.
Dr. Cunningham is the seventh Fire Chief in Cobb County’s history after the Board of Commissioners confirmed his appointment. The appointment, recommended by County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris, followed an extensive search process.
Dr. McMorris highlighted Cunningham’s diverse background, leadership and expertise.
Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club Capital Visit
Hosted by Cobb County Representative Sharon Cooper and Kim Sherk, CWPC was invited to the Georgia State Capitol and recognized for its service to community. The day served as a powerful reminder of the important work happening at our state's Capitol. The day included a visit to the House floor and opportunity to observe the presentation and passage of legislative bills. Special guests included Miss Cobb County Aaliyah Phillips and Miss Teen Cobb County Melony Tidmore.
ARTICLE BY EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE
SPACES REIMAGINED
The Future of Kitchen & Bath Design Starts Here
Hans Schuon comes from a long line of furniture craftsmen and cabinet artisans. His grandfather, father and uncles worked in the industry for decades. Over time, their tireless efforts brought new meaning to the words precision, care and customer service. This family legacy is the inspiration behind Schuon Kitchens and Baths, one of the Atlanta area's most sought-after remodeling companies. Their outstanding reputation embraces a commitment to designing and building fine kitchens and baths that are done right the first time. Mr. Schuon relays,” I truly believe that I was born to be in the kitchen cabinet and furniture making business”. His trusted team of designers are in the upper echelon when it comes to today’s trends and styles. With over 70 years of combined award-winning experience, through their unique vision, they can guide you to create a kitchen or bath that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but functional. Mr. Schuon states, “There is a trend toward clean design with a luxe look and feel. Transitional and modern styles blend with luxury materials such CONTINUED >
as fitted cabinets, exquisite quartzite, high-end appliances, and upscale hardware to create a simple, yet luxurious feeling. Clients like gold and black tones for hardware and light fixtures, with the most popular cabinet colors being light or warm neutrals and blues and greens, which are still trending.”
Designers can also consult on unexpected ways to utilize everyday items in your kitchen. Charging stations for technology inside drawers, electrical outlets under the upper cabinets where they are less visible, and unique storage solutions for frequently used appliances are trending for 2025. Organization also still reigns supreme in silverware drawers, spice racks and creative ways to store large cooking items like pots and pans.
The team at Schuon Kitchens and Baths also works closely to give the client exactly what they want, even if it means making changes within the space.“ We also help “reimagine” the flow and layout of spaces to create optimal results which can include construction to move doors, windows, and interior walls. We manage the project from beginning to end to ensure all the work is done properly”, says Mr. Schuon.
"Over the past two years, Schuon helped us redesign our kitchen, powder room, home office, and laundry area. They worked with us to incorporate the wishes of every family member including our three dogs. They really helped us maximize the space, and it’s been an amazing collaboration.” – Karen Greaber
“We would like to thank you for your wonderful sense of architectural design with the renovations of our bathrooms. Each room has its own identity while still being cohesive with the rest of the house.
The company's impact extends beyond its unique talent and exceptional products and services. Schuon Kitchens and Baths believes in giving back, and is committed to being a part of something larger than themselves through charitable giving to local organizations and foundations. They are a business that prioritizes social responsibility, understanding success is not measured in revenue, but in the positive change it fosters. The company is laser focused on ensuring your investment enhances both your home's beauty and its long-term value. At Schuon Kitchens and Baths, you are not just a client, but a partner on a team that aims to bring your vision to life. skbi.com | 770-643-9000
ARTICLE BY LISA THOMPSON
My Favorite Haunts
Paris - The City
of Lights
Paris, the “City of Lights.” I have visited this iconic city numerous times and never fail to enjoy it. Never fail to sit in a Montmartre café and feel the same “joie de vivre.” Never fail to smile at the magic of the Eiffel Tower’s twinkling lights against a midnight sky. To hear the beautiful French language and wonder what life was like for my ancestors in this city. Paris simply never fails.
Marie Edith
On each visit, I like to incorporate one or two new experiences, whether cultural or culinary, and stay in various arrondissements to experience the uniqueness of each. Notwithstanding these new adventures, I relish the familiarity of my favorite haunts. Who doesn’t enjoy revisiting those places that evoke happy memories? That feeling of sweet nostalgia via recognizable sights, sounds, and smells, such as fresh croissants emerging from the oven of your favorite café? For me, familiarity brings a sense of belonging and joy.
Most visitors to Paris enjoy a little shopping, and this city offers everything from Chanel to the famous flea markets. One of my favorites is Louis Vuitton’s flagship store. I love to experience the quiet elegance and study the beautifully crafted products. My first purchase there was a stunning pale pink silk scarf.
Afterward, I often wander over to Hotel Plaza Athénée for a glass of French wine. This hotel is old-school Parisian, and if you can snag a reservation at the rooftop restaurant, La Terrasse Montaigne, it will be an experience you will not soon forget.
I also revel in a totally different shopping experience only Paris affords. Flea market shoppers can discover luxury brands, but of the vintage sort. There is a large permanent flea market, Les Puces de Saint-Ouen, just a short distance outside of Paris proper. My favorites, though, are the weekend "pop-up" markets that are found throughout the city. The best way to locate these unique opportunities is via a website ( https//:brocabrac.fr/75/). You will find everything from pre-owned luxury items including china, artwork, clothing, and more. It’s a wonderful way to spend a weekend morning stroll!
Cafe e la Paix
Sainte Chapelle
"PARIS IS A CITY OF FAMILIAR HAUNTS, WHERE EVERY CORNER HOLDS A STORY AND EVERY STREET INVITES DISCOVERY. FINDING YOUR OWN SPECIAL PLACE IS LIKE A TREASURE HUNT, AND WHEN YOU DO, IT BECOMES A PART OF YOU FOREVER."
- LISA THOMPSON, OWNER, THOMPSON EXPLORATION
Montmartre
Afterward, grab lunch at another one of my favorite cafés, La Maison Rose, located in Montmartre. But book early, as it is the most photographed café in Paris! This former artists’ village was once home to Picasso and Salvador Dalí, and is the site of the famed Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The area is my home away from home when in Paris. I love nothing better than to have lunch, wander through all the works of art in the Place du Tertre, duck into little shops, and settle into a café to people-watch with yet another glass of wine. Catching the sunset from Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, is a sure way to transition into the evening with a sense of peace and tranquility.
Next, no visit to Paris is complete until I check in on my most treasured cultural haunts. The Musée d’Orsay, located on the left bank of the Seine, is my go-to museum. Set in an old Beaux-Arts railway station, it blends architectural beauty with that of Impressionist works of art. Masterpieces from Monet, Degas, and Renoir adorn the walls, along with many others of the Impressionist and Post Impressionist periods. While there, you can take a gourmet break with a number of dining choices. It’s perfect for a rainy day!
Another favorite is the former royal chapel of Sainte-Chappelle, situated on the famed Île de la Cité, also home to Notre-Dame Cathedral. Originally built in the 13th century to house relics of the Passion of Christ, today it still holds a total of 1,113 panels telling the story of the history of the world according to the Bible. These are some of the most magnificent stainedglass panels in Europe, and the chapel is considered a masterpiece of the High Gothic Style. Visiting this site always inspires a reverence for spiritual beliefs.
One last preferred haunt is the Hotel de la Marine, located at the Place de la Concorde. This
palace was built between 1757 and 1772 in honor of King Louis XV and was home to the office personnel managing the furnishing of all royal properties. It contains a passage reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles and beautifully furnished apartments from the 18th century.
Lastly, who can talk about Paris and not think of the gastronomic delights that abound there? While I always try a few new spots, I still delight in those places I visit every time. A small and very local spot is the restaurant Marie-Edith in the 15th arrondissement, with its reasonably priced menu. It has no website, so make your reservations by phone. Another more upscale bistro choice is Café de la Paix, a block from the Palais Garnier. Its theatre-district location is a little touristy, but the grandeur, ambiance and history make up for it. My final spot for a late-night cap is the Hemingway Bar at The Ritz. Expect a line, but it is “The Ritz!” after all.
Even with new surprises on each visit, it’s these familiar haunts that have beckoned me back to Paris time after time. And I’m sure we will meet again in the not too distant future!
Paris Flea Market
Eye Health
Prioritizing Women’s Eye Health
Hormonal changes, higher life expectancy, and greater risk for conditions like dry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma make regular eye exams essential for maintaining lifelong vision. Your eyes offer insight into your overall health, giving doctors the ability to detect conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease before symptoms appear.
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SAVORING FLAVORS AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITY
An Experience for the Senses
ARTICLE BY REI KAISER
No matter your palate’s persuasion - whether you crave the smoky embrace of slow-cooked barbecue, the delicate artistry of handcrafted pastries, or the fiery thrill of global spices - one thing is certain: everyone is a foodie at heart. Set against the charming backdrop of the Historic Marietta Square, this year's Taste of Marietta promises a feast for the senses - dynamic flavors, enticing aromas, and bites that tell a story. From street food favorites to gourmet masterpieces, this celebration of community proves that taste knows no boundaries. So, on Sunday, April 27, come hungry, leave inspired, and let your senses guide you to new and unforgettable culinary experiences.
JRM Management and its experienced team - a key part of the inaugural event three decades ago - is thrilled to serve as this year’s festival management company. Produced by Visit Marietta and the City of Marietta, Taste of Marietta is made possible thanks to presenting sponsors: Publix and Superior Plumbing. Thanks to their generosity, this sought-after event is expected to host around 50,000 food lovers. “Publix is proud to be the presenting sponsor for this exciting annual event in Marietta. We love the communities where we live, work, and play and it’s an honor to embrace opportunities to connect at events like Taste of Marietta.”- Nicole Krauss, Publix Media Relations Manager.
A special partnership with Georgia Grown brings the Georgia Grown Member Village where patrons can explore and invest in the best of locally made products. From decadent desserts and farm-fresh produce to artisanal goods and bold hot sauces. This curated marketplace showcases handmade, homegrown, and exclusively Georgia-made offerings. It’s a proud celebration
of local craftsmanship and flavors, made possible through a very special partnership with Georgia Grown. Always held on the last Sunday in April, more than fifty area restaurants will showcase their very best dishes. There are several exciting opportunities for participating restaurants to earn "Awards of Distinction" ranging from "Tastiest Taste" and "Most Unique" to "Tastiest Beverage" and "Best Comfort Food". Winners will be announced live on the big stage at 3:00 pm with awards proudly presented by Visit Marietta later in the day. “As local restaurant owners, Mama Betty and I really enjoy Taste of Marietta. It brings a lot of new faces and exposes them to the great things Marietta has to offer and we appreciate the drive of business. As a chef, I enjoy being able to give a great taste to what we make.” – shares Visit Marietta Board Member and Owner of Piastra Restaurant Chef Greg Lipman.
Beyond the savory flavors, the festival features live music and entertainment, a kids’ zone with fun games, a food judging competition, local chef spotlights, and unique shopping experiences throughout the day.
Festival-goers can elevate their Taste of Marietta experience with exclusive access to the Publix VIP Lounge. Located just off the Square at Boxwood Social, this premium experience offers comfortable, air conditioned seating, private restrooms, live acoustic music, Publix hors d’oeuvres, and open bar.
When you invest in Taste of Marietta, you're investing in the community - supporting local businesses, celebrating great food and creating lasting memories with families and friends. So come out, savor the flavors and enjoy a fantastic time!
To learn more visit, tasteofmarietta.com | 770-423-1330
SAVOR LIFE & FIND YOUR True Wealth
ARTICLE BY SHEENA STEEDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT MOORE
The soft morning light filters through the curtains as you awake to birdsong and a gentle breeze. Stepping onto the balcony, you behold endless vineyards rippling in the Tuscan hills and can’t believe this paradise is real.
Walking downstairs, you’re greeted by many new faces of people smiling and excited to see you, new friends, gathered around a long wooden table immaculately set with steaming quiche, luscious fruit, warm bread, and Italian cappuccino.
This is just the beginning of days spent practicing yoga in nature’s rhythms, discovering ancient towns, and pausing to savor beauty at every turn.
Indulge in Tuscan serenity, savor life’s richness, and rediscover yourself
If you can envision waking up like this, you’re ready for a yoga retreat with Scott Moore.
Retreats are an investment—in your truest self—the part of you that gets lost in the rush of daily life.
We frequently invest our money into stocks, bonds, and real estate, yet fail to invest in the one irreplaceable resource that makes it all possible, ourselves—our true wealth.
On this journey, all details have been meticulously planned so you can stay within your budget and fully relax into the experience.
After immersing in the richness of the present moment, slowing down and savoring life, you’ll return replenished and ready to bring this mindset of appreciation into your everyday world.
Reap the returns of a broadened perspective and renewed vitality—the dividends are endless.
Find out more about upcoming retreats with Scott Moore in destinations like Tuscany, Sardinia, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera at scottmooreyoga.com/retreats .
Atlanta Bed Swings
Curated
We
Serving
Practicing
Hormone
Dermatology,
AN AFFAIR WITH CHOCOLATE
There are so many fantastic things about life. Puppy dogs, a fresh rain on a hot summer day or even an unexpected visit from an old friend. However, one of my favorite things about being alive is the millions of flavors that our chemosenses give us day in and day out when we bite into our favorite foods. No one knows this basic human need more than Karl Vivier and his wife Eva, owners of A Cacao Affair, one of Marietta’s best and most innovative
MARIETTA STRIKES GOLD WITH A CACAO AFFAIR CHOCOLATIER AND PATISSERIE
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
“WE USE INGREDIENTS THAT HAVE REAL FLAVORS, NOTHING THAT WOULD TASTE BLAND OR CONTAIN AN ‘ENHANCER’ TO GET THE TASTE OF FRUIT OR NUTS.”
chocolatiers. There is nothing better than a perfectly concocted, lovingly made, morsel of hand-crafted chocolate. Yet, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Viviers’ vision in culinary delights and artful creations.
The genesis of A Cacao Affair began when Mr. Vivier obtained inspiration from working in restaurants as a chef. “I worked in a number of trendy restaurants as a chef, and my favorite job was making versatile chocolate treats and desserts. I enjoyed experimenting with mouth-watering flavors and pairing chocolate with spices, wines, and fruits. It inspired me to focus on creating
delicious and unusual combinations with chocolate,” Mr. Vivier relays.
Fast forward to 2013 and a new chocolate boutique was born. A Cacao Affair is no ordinary candy shop. It is one part confectionary genius and one part artistry. To visit their website acacaoaffair. com, is to be transported into a world that you may have not thought possible. Not only do the Viviers’ taunt you with espelette, hazelnut croquants and Tahitian vanilla ganache, but their creativity is limitless with expertly crafted, life-sized, chocolate footballs, women’s purses, high heel shoes, golf balls, and even cigars. Mr. Vivier states, “The inspiration comes from
loving what we do and having fun with it.”
His amusement and love for baked goods is equally evident in the pastries, danishes, truffles, macarons and dipped fruit offerings that A Cacao Affair proudly presents to its patrons. Important gatherings and milestones may call for one of Mr. Vivier’s astonishing saint honores, fruit tarts, gâteau basque or a buttery galette des rois.
For seasonal delights customers can order king cakes for Mardi Gras, pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving and that perfect brioche for Easter. In addition, you will never find Mr. Vivier resting on his laurels as he is always investing in innovation and is currently experimenting with various after-dinner drinks and chocolate pairings including truffles to go with whiskey, wine and more.
Patrons can also trust that what they buy from A Cacao Affair is a premium product made with the best ingredients. “We use ingredients that have real flavors, nothing that would taste bland or contain an "enhancer" to get the taste of fruit or nuts,” says Mr. Vivier.
So, step into an authentic European chocolatier and patisserie and make a delectable selection from their bountiful assortment of baked goods, premium chocolates and amusing edible creations for your gathering or just for your own enjoyment.
We tend to our steaks with the passion of a winemaker, our master butcher monitors our steaks daily for 21 days in a temperature and humidity-controlled vault, then carves it by hand. Does our obsession pay off? You tell us.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
at $1,595,000
Experience luxury in this Keith Sumner-built home, fully furnished with high-end finishes and a seamless open-concept design. The main-level primary suite offers a private retreat, while the basement provides a wet bar, additional living space, and guest accommodations. Outdoor living is elevated with a covered porch, a full outdoor kitchen, a built-in plunge pool/hot tub, and a cozy gas fireplace. Conveniently located just minutes from Lake Blue Ridge, Downtown Blue Ridge, and the Marina. Schedule your private tour today!
