Hello friends,
I have had my hickory bentwood rocking chair longer than I have had my husband.
My brother Tim and his late wife Beth gifted me the chair made in northern Michigan when I was just out of college. For 13 years, it sat in my friend’s basement along with our fragile wedding gifts when we moved abroad just after we got married.
When we moved back to the States, I had a happy reunion with my rocking chair and rocked my babies to sleep in it, my weary head resting on its smooth wood. It was my mom’s favorite seat in our family room and I can picture my kids scrambling up onto her lap for a story or hug. It’s lived in three states, nine homes, and rocked four babies I’ve nannied, plus my two grandchildren and countless houseguests. It’s been a porch rocker, living room seating, and a nursery staple.
She has been my sidekick for 40 years and I love her.
We furnish our homes with beautiful and practical pieces, sentimental curios, nostalgic knickknacks, and prized possessions. In this home issue, we bring you stories of lovely homes, designers with vision, and rooms that share a story and welcome guests.
The team at Trifecta has a special sauce when it comes to furniture, design and start-to-finish service (page 14).
I've always wanted a wall bed, very Jetsons and stealth. They're back! And, aside sleek built-ins. Both from Closets By Design. Who knew? (page 18)
Enjoy your home. It's where the heart is.
And the favorite rocking chair.
All my best,
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @JOHNSCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
Art by Suzy Parker @ParkerPrints_
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Summer Robinson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Catrina Maxwell | CatMax Photography, Aleks Kapett
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Your home deserves window treatments as unique as your style. Our expert design consultants offer personalized guidance to craft solutions that complement your vision. Schedule your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Jolie Loren, Corinne Artis, Alise Haigazian from Sean O'Keefe Enterprises are among our stellar staff. 2: Clockwise: Corinne Artis, Alise Haigazian, Aleks Kapett, Ken Jackson, Katie Curling, Sue Collins. 3: Thank you, Jolie Loren, for this yummy photo at The Americano Atlanta by Scott Conant. 4: Cheers to all the writers and photographers who make this magazine POP. 5: The Americano Atlanta by Scott Conant hosted our annual editorial staff luncheon. 6: Jolie Loren, Corinne Artis, Sue Collins and Alise Haigazian at The Americano, InterContinental Buckhead. 7: The Presidential Suite at InterContinental Buckhead.
WHY CHOOSE PET WANTS
Benefits of Small Batch Pet Foods
Small batch is a more ethical approach to crafting high-quality pet food, where care and attention to detail influence the quality of the final product.
Benefit of Buying in Small Batch
It keeps your pet’s food as fresh as possible. It allows for rotational feeding and customized diets, based on your pet’s special needs.
Health Benefits of Pets eating less
More energy, Easier on their digestive system.
Dr. Stephanie Fransoso in charge
There’s a new dentist in town. Dr. Stephanie Fransoso is proud to be taking the torch from longtime Johns Creek Dentist, Dr. Rob Sable. S|F Dental has been dedicated to providing outstanding care for over four decades. Their comprehensive, personalized treatments prioritize your overall health, well-being, and your best smile. 3005 Old Alabama Rd Suite #320, Alpharetta. 770.475.7551
20 Years of Community and Reading
The Ocee Library is celebrating its twentieth anniversary! The newly-renovated Ocee Library reflects the Native American heritage of the diverse Ocee community. The new design includes meeting rooms of various sizes, study rooms, a bookstore operated by the Friends of the Ocee Library, and an elaborate Children’s department with special story time and creative activity/learning areas. The Ocee Library serves as an information and social hub for residential, commercial, technological, and recreational groups.
As a board-certified and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Julia Kang is highly specialized in plastic surgery of the eyelids. As a true eyelid specialist, Dr. Kang is an expert in her field regarding any type of eyelid concern, both cosmetic and medical. Dr. Kang is also an expert injector in Botox and fillers and aims for only the most natural appearing results, believing in a ‘less is more” approach.
Two Years of Beautiful Smiles
Dentistry at Ivy Falls is celebrating its second anniversary in the Johns Creek location. Led by Drs. Joshua Kim and Gene Chung, Dentistry at Ivy Falls offers comprehensive care in a serene, friendly environment. Combining advanced technology with a patient-centered approach, they provide preventative, cosmetic, and restorative treatments. The team prioritizes comfort and personalized attention, ensuring each patient's experience is relaxing and professional. 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd STE 501, Johns Creek 678.992.5235
DentistryAtIvyFalls.com
PHOTO BY TIM WALKER
Turnkey Interior Design
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TRIFECTA
Dream it and designers make it happen
The design world is embracing a bold new era, where moody hues , rich textures , and classic lines take center stage. This is just in from the designers at Trifecta Home Furniture, where they believe these elements aren’t just trends—they’re the foundation of enduring style.
“At TRIFECTA, every piece we offer embodies at least one of these defining qualities, ensuring our collections feel both current and timeless. This year, expect interiors that exude depth, sophistication, and a refined sense of luxury,” says Trifecta Home Furniture co-owner Kristy Ortega.
Along with her husband and business partner JJ Ortega, she uses a keen eye for detail and a passion for high-end aesthetics to build their brand. Since 2013, the power couple has emerged as an industry leader in the staging and decorating of elite properties.
Their goal is to create an effortless process for clients who are looking to furnish their homes with luxury pieces that fit their budget, lifestyle, and dreams. It can be a daunting project. Let the designers take over. They will meticulously measure each room, curating every piece of furniture, and crafting a cohesive vision tailored to their lifestyle.
“Once the design is finalized, our team of professional movers and installers work in perfect sync, ensuring that most homes are completed within just 12 hours,” says JJ. “The home is fully transformed—beds made, artwork hung, and every detail in place.”
Find renowned brands you know and love, alongside TRIFECTA’S own exclusive collection, meticulously curated over the past six years. While staying on trend is essential, the team believes true luxury goes beyond the expected, and seek out those rare, statement-making pieces that set a home apart—designs you won’t find in every retail store or boutique. “The result is a curated collection that blends sophistication, exclusivity, and timeless appeal, ensuring every space we design is as unique as the individuals who call it home,” says Kristy.
Because of their unique business structure of being open just two days each month, TRIFECTA is able to offer high-quality furnishings for 20-30% below higher-end retailers and boutiques. For this reason, their design services are typically a fraction of what other design firms charge. Every home is unique and each will have a specific proposal depending on the client’s needs.
Georgia Showroom 935 N Point Drive, Alpharetta 404-369-7699
TrifectaHomeFurniture.com
Since 2013, the power couple has emerged as an industry leader in the staging and decorating of elite properties.
Spring Is Upon Us!
Spring Into Action: Protect Your Home After a Harsh Winter
After a long, cold winter filled with heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, your home’s exterior has taken a beating. Even the most durable roofing systems can suffer from the harsh effects of winter weather, leading to leaks, weakened shingles, and hidden damage that could cause problems down the road. Now that spring is here, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home is in top shape for the warmer months ahead.
www.CR3America.com
At CR3 American Exteriors, we offer free roof inspections to give homeowners peace of mind. Our experienced team will assess any potential damage and provide solutions to keep your home safe and dry as we move into spring and summer. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major problem let us help you take prev entative action now
In addition to expert roofing services, CR3 American Exteriors specializes in gutters, windows, doors, siding, deck replacements, and more Whether you need repairs, upgrades, or a complete exterior remodel, we are your trusted local experts, committed to quality and customer satisfaction. Spring into action today! Schedule your free inspection and make sure your home is ready for th e seasons ahead. Contact CR3 American Exteriors to protect your biggest investment your home Call and schedule with us today!
THINKING OUTSIDE THE CLOSET
Solutions for the entire home from an industry leader.
Organizing is necessary and unavoidable and for some, impossible.
I spend hours tidying and reorganizing my bedroom closet each spring and the laundry room gets a makeover once a year before the kids come home from college (and again when they leave). I long for shelving in the garage dedicated to my outdoor gear, for cubbies in my office to hide my knitting and crafts, and a guest room that isn’t all bed and pillows.
Turning to the experts in custom organization and innovative designs for the home, Closets By Design, I found the options enticing and the one-onone design services essential. The company, family owned and operated, provides help every step of the way with solutions for every room of the house, not just closets.
“At Closets by Design, we understand that every home is unique, which is why our design process is tailored specifically to your individual needs
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
and preferences. From the moment you schedule your no-obligation consultation, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way,” says owner and operator, Stephanie Parmer.
Set an appointment online or by phone and a professional designer will come directly to your home bringing the showroom experience to your doorstep. “Together, you’ll collaborate to create a
personalized design that maximizes your space and fits your budget. Once the perfect layout is established, your designer will coordinate the installation date, ensuring a seamless transition from vision to reality,” Stephanie explains.
On installation day, a highly trained installer will arrive with all the necessary materials to complete your project—typically in just one day. Dreamy!
Too nice to park in? Maybe, but Closets By Design has good-looking floors, easy-to-clean cabinet surfaces, and smart storage ideas for your toys and tools.
Since its inception in 1982, Closets By Design has carved a niche as a trailblazer in home organization, and today one of their latest focuses has been on transforming garages into efficient spaces that reflect the needs and lifestyle of the homeowner. Think sleek cabinetry, versatile shelving systems, tools neatly organized on wall-mounted racks, sports gear tucked away in custom cabinets, and dedicated spaces for hobby supplies. The company offers garage flooring options too, durable and easy to maintain, giving your space a polished look.
Indoors, a standout trend is in home office design with the rise of custom furniture. These versatile pieces can be configured to fit any space, allowing you to create a customized workstation that adapts to your needs. Think vertical storage options like shelves and
pegboards that utilize wall space effectively, as well as drawers that help you find what you need quickly along with storage cubes and baskets for keeping supplies neatly tucked away while adding a decorative touch.
When we think of home design, laundry rooms often take a backseat. Yet, this hardworking area deserves just as much attention with custom cabinets in on-trend colors or finishes with ample workspace for sorting, folding, and ironing clothes. Countertops—made from durable materials like quartz or granite—that are both functional and appealing are paired with stylish backsplashes for a cohesive look that transforms your laundry area into a mini oasis of organization. Include pull-out hampers, dedicated areas for sorting clothes by color or fabric type, and a foldable ironing board that tucks away neatly when not in use.
My guest room is also my office and I am pining for a Murphy bed from Closets By Design. Their wallbeds are designed to fold up against the wall when not in use, with a user-friendly mechanism, engineered to be lightweight yet sturdy, while they support a standard mattress.
“We’re passionate about transforming overlooked spaces into beautiful, functional areas that you’ll enjoy using,” says Stephanie. “We offer a wide spectrum of finishing options, whether you prefer the warm, natural look of wood or the sleek, contemporary feel of laminate finishes. Each material is crafted for durability while providing an elegant aesthetic that can elevate any room.”
Her team understands every home has unique needs and styles, and they are passionate about providing tailored solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics, transforming your spaces into beautifully organized havens.
3165 Corners N Ct, Peachtree Corners 770.418.2112
Atlanta.ClosetsByDesign.com
Pantry envy. Do you need shallow shelves or lots of storage for tall cereal boxes for the teens? You can customize your space completely.
Custom shelving and hidden storage give this room a polished appeal.
Home Is Right Around The Corner
Where other senior communities fall flat, Village Park Peachtree Corners soars above the rest. Here, the comforts of modern residences meet the convenience of bespoke services. Couple that with an active community campus, daily social outings, and a coveted location in Peachtree Corners, and you have a community in a class of its own. Call today for availability on select homes.
COLOR HITS THE HIGH NOTE
A SERIOUS MUSIC ROOM TAKES CENTER STAGE IN THIS WINDWARD HOME
L. Reaves Interiors is a boutique design firm based in Johns Creek that specializes in renovations for clients in all stages of life, from young families to empty nesters.
“We are passionate about designing homes that are as functional as they are beautiful and accomplish this by getting to know our clients and how they live,” says Lyn. “Our designs incorporate the old with the new so that the home reflects the
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL | CATMAX PHOTOGRAPHY
Lyn Reaves
“WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT DESIGNING HOMES THAT ARE AS FUNCTIONAL AS THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL AND ACCOMPLISH THIS BY GETTING TO KNOW OUR CLIENTS AND HOW THEY LIVE.”
client’s personality and tells their story.” We caught up with Lyn to ask about this gorgeous reno.
THE MIDNIGHT BLUE PIANO ROOM IS GORGEOUS. FOR HOMEOWNERS NERVOUS ABOUT SUCH INTENSE COLOR, WHAT CAN YOU TELL THEM?
This method of painting the walls, ceiling, and trim the same color is called “Color Drenching” and can be very intimidating to homeowners. I can’t count the times I’ve heard someone say, “I wish I were that brave.” If you find a color you love, go with it! While
I’ve drenched entire basements in beautiful dark colors, more often than not they are smaller rooms like a music room, theater room, library, or powder room. Although, I normally save powder rooms for stunning wallpaper!
WHY DOES THIS HUE WORK WELL IN THIS SPACE?
When painting such a strong color the other finishes can make or break the space. The wood floor and brass lighting contrast nicely with this deep blue/green paint color. Paint color: SW Dark Night SW 6237.
WHAT ELEMENTS OF THIS ROOM BRING YOU THE MOST JOY?
The star of the show is the beautiful baby grand piano which the client has owned for many years. It’s a fairly small room so we let the piano take center stage. We had to bring in very few accessories. We foraged the homeowner’s shelves and boxes and found these beautiful books. Books add character, charm, and warmth to any space, especially books as beautiful as these. They had a set of elephants that had belonged to his mother and we had a great time dispersing these amongst the shelves. We used them as bookends, book toppers, and even a couple climbing on some books. These add a bit of whimsy to the space.
WHAT WERE THE HOMEOWNER’S GOALS FOR THIS INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT?
These clients wanted a piano room that made a statement while still being a warm and inviting room for family and friends to gather and listen to music.
The husband is the cook and loves the small attached office where he can spend hours flipping through the pages of his many cookbooks.
678.825.2477 LReavesInteriors.com
Won't You Come In?
Bespoke entryways set the tone.
ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
With over 50 years of combined experience in custom doors and windows, the team at Clark Hall Doors & Windows have unmatched quality and expertise when it comes to iron doors. The artisan workers at Clark Hall Doors & Windows have honed their craft to create unique doors to reflect their client’s vision. Whether it’s a new construction or renovation, every Clark Hall door or window is carefully built with the highest standards to provide clients with a plethora of customization options. They pride themselves on being the best CONTINUED >
option for bespoke doors that make a big impact on your home’s design. While their design studios are based in Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, their white glove installation services and sales consultants are available for clients in Alpharetta, Buckhead, Marietta, Milton, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. At-home consultations in the Atlanta area can be booked from Monday through Saturday with an appointment.
“The customer here was looking to create a focal point at the entrance, maximizing the light coming into the foyer with minimal sightlines along with complementing the cedar, copper, and natural stone of the exterior,” says Jack Paton, general manager of Clark Hall Doors & Windows. “Each project we do is fully custom to the architect’s or homeowner’s desires. If you can dream it, we can build it.” Once the design is chosen, the options for glass are considered. “There are many options when choosing glass,” Paton says. “Typically customers are choosing between a clear insulated glass with a UV LoE protective layer. They can also choose from our textured options for more privacy.”
Why select Clark Hall for designing a bespoke front door? The front door of your home makes a statement and increases curb appeal. Why not make it personal and one-of-a-kind? According to Clark Hall Doors & Windows, they are known for being hand-perfected by a skilled artisan maker and uniform, smooth-to-touch finishes. Styles range from modern, traditional and ornate. Each custom door is individually crafted and designed to specification to turn your dream entryway into a reality. Iron doors are not only durable and attractive, but they take the security of your home to the next level. Every door is made specifically for your home, and goes through extensive detailing. Fully custom iron doors also increase the value of your home. According to Clark Hall’s website, realtors and remodeling experts
“Each project we do is fully custom to the architect’s or homeowner’s desires. If you can dream it, we can build it.”
show that upgrading the front entryway has one of the highest cost recoup percentages when compared to other home improvements.
With a combined passion for elevated design, Clark Hall Doors was launched in 2004 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their family-focused and community-based team takes pride in working with clients from the first sketch to the final installation to bring their client’s visions to life and marry artistry, engineering, and craftsmanship. Showrooms are located in Charlotte, Raleigh, and now Atlanta, at 690 Miami Circle Suite 575.
ClarkHallDoors.com
Where Nature is the North Star
Balsam Mountain Preserve, western North Carolina's luxury golf community.
When we met Elsie, an ambassador at Balsam Mountain Trust nature center, she had just returned from a meet and greet at a local elementary school. Her friend Tilia was getting a dose of medicine and Apollo was eyeing us with shy curiosity.
They are among 18 well-loved wild animal ambassadors who reside at the Balsam Mountain Trust near Sylva, North Carolina in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. The Nature Center offers classes and guided hikes across 40 miles of conservation trails. Inside, displays include a collection of Indigenous People’s artifacts found on the property, from BCE 9,000 - 6,000 and reports on the water and land conservation efforts across the hilly 4,400 acres.
These efforts and attitudes that put nature first are the cornerstones at Balsam Mountain Preserve, a new mountain home community with an Arnold Palmer Signature Course, active tennis and fitness center, growing equestrian program, and two celebrated restaurants and bars.
The beautifully manicured golf course winds through the hills and valleys of western North Carolina. Playing to 6,824 yards with a par of 70, the course is one of the amenities that entice homeowners to buy or build at Balsam Mountain Preserve.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
A sprawling fitness center with an outdoor pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and day spa, plus a growing equestrian program housed in a charming barn dot the grounds of the mountain community, a unique new destination between Sylva and Waynesville.
Of Balsam Mountain Preserve’s 4,400 acres, 3,200 are protected. Plans call for 354 homes with all of the luxury estates, village homes, homesteads, and cabin and cottages fractional adhering to the International Dark Sky Association guidelines for outdoor lighting, which fosters privacy and stargazing.
There are also 40 miles of Class A trout streams where you’ll stumble upon waterfalls, relics from the property’s long ago garnet mining, and logging operations, but rarely another angler or hiker.
When we visited Balsam Mountain Preserve, we expected just another prestigious golf community with stunning mountain estates, what we found was a community with a heart.
On the sprawling stone patio outside the signature restaurants, The Summit House and adjacent Mine Tavern, we met homeowners around a giant wood fireplace. Some were just off the golf course, others were gathering with neighbors for a happy hour or two before going into dinner, a casual but elevated affair with Executive Chef Edwin Bloodworth at the helm. Flavors are innovative and memorable, with fresh local ingredients featured, served by friendly and capable professionals. Sometimes club dining rooms can be stuffy. All the spaces at Balsam Mountain Preserve are airy and open, with amenities and design that seem right at home.
One of the true treasures is an 18-foot, hand crafted dining table adjacent to the glass-walled wine cellar — cut from an old growth red
tree. This piece is one of many inspired by or sourced from the property.
This is part of what draws people to the Preserve. There are 100 completed homes, with more under construction. With homesteads still available, Director of Sales, Sean McLaughlin explains, “Our full-time residents (about 30 percent) are very close-knit. And, it’s not uncommon for a family to dip their toes in with shared ownership, with the next step - a custom residence or homestead property.” Most properties border on a portion of the 3,400-acre conservation easement.
BalsamMountainPreserve.com
oak
Waterfall trails, horse trails, mountain vistas and luxury homes at Balsam Mountain Preserve.
Partners Mimi Mulugeta and Michael Barrows of Atlanta Flooring Studio provide expert assistance to customers in North Georgia looking to update their homes. According to Mulugeta, “We both love working with our customers to create something special in their home.” Since their grand opening in 2024, they’ve collaborated with clients to create environments that Mulugeta says have ranged from glitzy, country, or
ALPHARETTA’S TRUSTED FLOORING EXPERTS
ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKS KAPETT
“I TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN COLLABORATING WITH CLIENTS TO EXPLORE VARIOUS POSSIBILITIES—ALL WHILE STAYING TRUE TO THEIR UNIQUE PERSONALITIES.”
warm and inviting. Barrow and Mulugeta partnered to open Atlanta Flooring Studio with a shared vision: they aspire to become the trusted, knowledgeable resource for the area where clients feel comfortable asking questions and receive tailored services that meet their specific needs. “Our collaborative journey to open this store together has been incredibly rewarding,” Mulugeta says.
Whether you’re interested in the latest trends or trying to update the interior design of your home, flooring is a high-impact choice to add style and character to your home. The studio offers free in-home estimates and even has next-day
appointments available. “From carpet to hardwood, luxury vinyl to tile, we’ve got all your flooring needs covered,” says Barrow. It’s not just a clever pun, either. The Alpharetta showroom provides customers with a wide selection of flooring options, personalized design consultations, and professional installation. Their aim is to provide a hands-on experience and for customers to achieve the desired look and feel for their residential or commercial flooring needs. They also provide services for kitchen and bathroom remodeling, hardwood refinishing and carpet binding, or custom area rugs. “We opened Flooring Studio together to create a welcoming
space for our community and to apply our combined knowledge and experience,” says Mulugeta. “We look forward to helping our customers find the perfect flooring solutions for their home or business.”
Recent projects that have been designed by the studio range from a rustic cabin in Blue Ridge to ultra-modern homes featuring Carrera and Calcutta designs. “Our portfolio includes sleek, bright aesthetics complemented by various elements, as well as transitional styles that blend traditional charm with contemporary elegance,” says Mulugeta. Additionally, they have also worked on industrial loft designs that incorporated raw minimalist designs, coastal-inspired spaces with airy palettes and natural textures, and bohemian styles rich in patterns and vibrant colors. “Each design aims to reflect the personality and lifestyle of the homeowner,” Mulugeta says.
“I take great pride in collaborating with clients to explore various possibilities— all while staying true to their unique personalities,” Mimi says. “Creating a comfortable and welcoming space is our top priority. It brings Michael and I immense joy to witness our clients truly appreciating and loving the environments we help them create.”
Atlanta Flooring Studio 11380 State Bridge Rd. Suite 100, Alpharetta AtlantaFlooringStudio.com
A
SURVIVOR'S STORY OF HOPE AND RESILIENCE
Michele Helene
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY
Michele Helene, Event Chairwoman 2025 Shaken, Not Stirred Gala
Their love, resilience, and unwavering support remind Michele that family matters most.
Michele Helene remembers her diagnosis of stage 3 ovarian cancer in June 2018. “This silent killer may have detoured me in life’s journey; but, it did not stop me,” says Michele. Becoming a better person for Michele means recognizing the incredible strength that she draws from her beautiful daughter, Jennifer, and granddaughter, Sophia.
“Jennifer’s kindness and determination inspire me to keep pushing forward, no matter what challenge I face,” says Michele, “Sophia’s laughter and innocence fill my heart with hope.” Together, Jennifer and Sophia give Michele the strength and courage to fight every battle with love and perseverance. Their love, resilience, and unwavering support remind Michele that family matters most. Michele is currently the chairwoman of the 13th Annual Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance Shaken, Not Stirred Gala and she is also very active in her career as a quality professional.
The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) organizes impactful events to raise awareness, support survivors, and fund educational initiatives in the fight against ovarian cancer. The annual Teal Trot 5K on September 20 at Chastain Park, unites families, friends, and advocates to honor their survivor community while remembering those who have passed from the disease. The Teal to Heal Fashion Show on November 13 at Lenox Square Mall, celebrates survivors as well as their families and caregivers. Both events are designed to highlight survivors’ stories and to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
GOCA’s flagship fundraiser, the Shaken, Not Stirred Gala, now in its 13th year, is scheduled for March 8 at the Georgia Aquarium. This elegant fundraising evening features The Celebrity All Star Band, DJ Angelo Ferraro, incredible silent and live auctions, and, most importantly, moving survivor stories, offering insight into their personal ovarian
cancer journey. Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) – Atlanta Chapter, in celebration of its tenth anniversary of partnership with GOCA, will curate an exceptional menu in honor of Dame Barbara Petit, showcasing their generosity and commitment to the cause. Proceeds from the gala support GOCA’s critical education and awareness initiatives.
In addition to these signature events, GOCA hosts a variety of outreach programs, survivor luncheons, and educational events. These include health fairs, corporate seminars, and community initiatives designed to spread awareness of ovarian cancer’s signs and symptoms, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes.
GOCA’s events not only raise funds but foster a sense of community among survivors and advocates. Participants are empowered to take action, share their knowledge, and support the organization’s mission of saving lives and improving the quality of life for women affected by this disease. Through these efforts, GOCA continues to make a meaningful impact across Georgia, championing awareness and providing vital resources for these courageous women.
Sponsoring and supporting GOCA is a meaningful way to make a difference in the fight against ovarian cancer. Corporate and individual sponsorships help fund vital programs, including community education, early detection initiatives, and survivor support services. Sponsors gain valuable exposure through GOCA’s signature events, while demonstrating a commitment to women’s health. By partnering with GOCA, supporters empower the organization to raise awareness, save lives through early detection, and improve the quality of life for ovarian cancer survivors across Georgia.
GaOvarianCancer.org
HOUSING SOLUTIONS: Habitat for Humanity
I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with Habitat for Humanity at St. Brigid Catholic Church for 14 years. Bob Lehrer’s selfless passion for building homes stateside and internationally, strongly influenced me to get involved and learn new skills.
Through our partnership with the great team at Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, St. Brigid parishioners have built 17 homes. Our most recent home was for a fellow parishioner, making it extra special. Working side by side with current and future homeowners, and countless volunteers, truly defines the Habitat for Humanity mission. Seeing the homeowners witness their home being built from the first nail to the dedication is truly a blessing. If you are willing to get sweaty, learn a new skill, and know the difference between a right and left-handed hammer, Habitat for Humanity wants you!
Habitat-NCG.org
One volunteer shares why it matters
ARTICLE BY MIKE ANDREW
Mike Andrew led his crew of volunteers from Saint Brigid Catholic Church last year.
MARCH 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 15TH
From Screen to Stage
Mount Pisgah Church | 7:30 PM
The sounds of Harry Potter, Star Wars, Mission: Impossible, and more will come to Johns Creek in the From Screen to Stage concert, presented by guest conductor Howard Hsu. Experience an evening of cinematic symphony full of pop-culture masterpieces that highlight the relationships between famous classical works and music composed for stage and screen from John Williams to Tchaikovsky.
MARCH 19TH
Lunch-N-Learn: Cashflow
Are you ready to unlock the financial secrets that drive business success? Discover why understanding the critical difference between "Working Capital" and "Cashflow" is just as vital to your success as mastering "Sales and Profits." This session will provide you with actionable insights to manage your resources more effectively and improve your cash flow. JohnsCreekChamber.com
MARCH 26TH
How Clay Works
The Art Center | 6:00 PM
Clay Sculpture with Kate is held every Wednesday. All-level observational clay sculpture with Kate Nahodyl.
MARCH 29TH
Daffodil Days
Atlanta Athletic Club
Games, thrilling youth rides, tasty treats, crafts, inflatable slides, carnival games and more. Bring your friends and family for a day of unforgettable memories.
