2024 Wrap-Up
As 2024 comes to a close, I'd like to recap some of our accomplishments as a magazine and community.
- Woodstock Wishes: In March, we partnered with Prime 120 Steakhouse and the Make-A-Wish Foundation for a fancy black-tie night benefitting a local Woodstock child.
- New Editor: Hello, it's me! I joined the Woodstock City Lifestyle team at the beginning of 2024. Our connections, community engagement, and helping local businesses thrive have been such a joy. Thanks to this job, I'm now expanding my career into photography.
- Features of Note:
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Sue Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
Dianne Kaseta | dianne.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Stephanie Benzee | stephanie.benzee@citylifestyle.com
Katya Gore | katya.gore@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sara Hagen, Sean O’Keefe, Candi Hannigan
1. We featured Woodstock's accessible art exhibit, "Please Touch the Art," and a corresponding kid's event that taught kids how to write their names in Braille using rhinestones.
2. Our 'Gent's Issue' was a tribute to five remarkable men in our community. Mayor Caldwell, Tom Stratton, our own Marco Rossi, and Christopher Braselton graced our cover, each a change-maker in their own right.
3. We highlighted the technologically advanced orthodontists Dr. Kar and Dr. Sweeney of Smile Doctors Woodstock, who prioritize accessibility for all patients.
4. The showstopping young riders of BellaRose Equestrian graced our August cover.
5. Seniors Helping Seniors' Tani and Rose's beautiful friendship is palpable on our November cover.
We are beyond grateful to all of you who have received and read our magazine. Through this publication, we aim to drive community support and engagement. Receiving this issue and reading it is an act of service to your community. Don't hesitate to contact me if you'd like to request a feature, write an article, or leave a comment. My email is sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com.
As we bid farewell to 2024, let's give it a standing ovation for all the wonderful moments we've shared. And now, let's welcome 2025 with open arms, filled with anticipation for the new stories, events, and achievements that we'll share together in the coming year!
SARA HAGEN, EDITOR
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
3:5-6
city scene
business monthly
Curated Cherokee County Film Tours
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) is launching an update to their awarding-winning Filmed In Cherokee Mobile App that offers a more interactive and customizable experience to explore behind-the-scenes of Cherokee’s film industry.
Disaster Relief Drive
The City of Woodstock arranged a relief drive at First Baptist Woodstock and accepted donations of all kinds for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. The turnout was tremendous!
The Mkt Holiday Open House
Customer's formed a line outside the door for The Market's Holiday Open House on November 2 and 3. Check them out at themkt.com and in person at 5500 Bells Ferry Rd in Acworth.
Photography by The Market
Photography by WoodstockGA.gov
THE GIFT OF GALAPAGOS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN O’KEEFE
I wasn't sure what to expect when I was invited to explore The Galápagos Islands on Ecoventura's luxury expedition private yacht, Theory. Perhaps one of the world's most remote and exclusive travel destinations, the archipelago, located some 600 miles off the coast of the Equator, has captivated
Kicker's Rock (Leon Dormido) is off the coast of San Cristobal and an iconic lava rock formations. The remains of a volcanic cone, eroded by the sea and weather
“Floreana’s Post Office, established in the late 18th century, is a unique mail system where visitors leave letters in a wooden barrel
for travelers to hand-deliver.
This
centuries-old
tradition embodies the spirit of adventure and camaraderie among visitors, making it a charming stop on any Galápagos itinerary.”
explorers and adventurers for centuries, inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Home to countless species of endemic flora and fauna, the voyage was to be the adventure of a lifetime, offering a world-class Relais & Châteaux experience, all while circumnavigating the rich ecological history of our planet.
Perfect for the luxury traveler, Ecoventura's environmentally sound and socially responsible approach to ecotourism is a hallmark of the adventure that focuses on sustainable travel and conservation.
The world-class, bespoke, and personalized service that you receive while onboard is nothing short of amazing. Theory is a floating, world-class hotel with every amenity imaginable, sailing the seas! A luxury yacht trip to the Galápagos offers an
unparalleled experience, combining exquisite comfort with breathtaking scenery.
Guests onboard Theory can explore remote islands, encounter unique wildlife, and enjoy fine dining, all while sailing through crystal-clear water from one island destination to another. Walls of windows, impeccably appointed staterooms, welcoming guest lounges, rooftop sundeck, library, and gourmet dining elevate the experience beyond expectation. The gracious and accommodating staff are always there to heighten the guest experience every step of the way.
From gourmet meals and exemplary service to hot chocolate after a snorkeling adventure, Theory excels at creating forever memories that will be cherished for years. The unsung blend of hospitality
>
The Galápagos Land Iguana is endemic to several of the Galápagos Islands. It has evolved a thicker skin and lighter color to reflect heat of the Equatorial Sun
Top: The Galápagos Sea Lions are forever playful and curious; they were a constant on the voyage and we had the privilege of swimming with them Bottom: There are 400-500 individual Pink Flamingos on Galápagos Islands. Their pink color reflects their diet made up exclusively from shrimp and crustaceans
and adventure makes Ecoventura genuinely exceptional. Ecoventura offers itineraries that allow guests to explore the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galápagos, all while minimizing their ecological footprint.
Each day of this remarkable journey is filled with thoughtfully curated expeditions guided by expertly skilled naturalists, offering opportunities to be amongst and interact with creatures that defy one's imagination. Daily zodiac rides reveal some of the best snorkeling and ocean kayaking that the world has to offer while also giving us access to a multitude of other-worldly island landscapes that help to define the Galápagos adventure. Whether walking across the barren volcanic hills, hiking along the seaside cliffs, or leisurely strolling the seemingly endless, vibrantly colored, pristine beaches, each sojourn brought us face to face with some of the world's most spectacular animals who genuinely seemed to be as curious about us as we were about them.
On Floreana and San Cristóbal islands, we walked in the footprints left by Darwin's expedition in 1835. Marine and land iguanas, giant tortoises, green sea turtles, flamingos, and the forever famous and super curious Galápagos sea lions welcomed us almost everywhere. Each hike, of which there were many during the seven-day voyage, not only showed us the unique island environments but also gave us insight into life on the island.
The oceans surrounding The Galápagos Islands are teeming with splendid color and an endless assortment of beautifully colored fish. Many Yellowtail surgeonfish, King Angelfish, and Black-nosed Butterflyfish were on our snorkeling
Ecoventura offers itineraries that allow guests to explore the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galápagos, all while minimizing their ecological footprint.
adventures. Not to be outdone, the waters, and more importantly, the ocean currents, were also filled with sea turtles, luminescent gigantic starfish, sharks, dolphins, whales, octopus, and sea lions, and, in the waters surrounding Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé, we were lucky to see the rarest species of penguin in the world. The skies above us hosted a flurry of activity. The Waved albatross, Galápagos hawks, Magnificent frigate birds, Lava gulls, the iconic Blue-footed Boobies, and countless species of finch seemed to embrace us where ever we went! The Galápagos Islands are a
birdwatcher's paradise. Observing these fascinating birds in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience.
The holiday season is quickly approaching, and if you are wondering what to give your favorite person for Christmas, look no further than giving the gift of Galápagos. Gifting a trip to the Galápagos Islands for Christmas is an extraordinary choice, offering unforgettable experiences in a stunning natural environment. It is a present that will last a lifetime. For more information or to book your travel please visit https://ecoventura.com
My husband and I with the Giant Galápagos Land Tortoise; realizing the tortoise will out-live us! 500+ pounds, about 100 years old, these creatures are amazing!
Jordan Carter (left) and Vance Collins (right)
HOW FIRST RESPONDERS KEEP THE SPIRIT ALIVE WHILE ON DUTY WITH WOODSTOCK FIRE DEPARTMENT
Firefighters Vance Collins and Jordan Carter always knew they wanted their careers to be centered around helping people. Carter has been with the Woodstock Fire Department for 19 years, while Collins is newer to the job at 3 years.
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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SARA HAGEN
On his motivation to become a first responder, Carter said, "The physical aspect of the job and getting to do what we would consider to be fun things, but helping people at the same time." The long shifts and holiday hours weren't a determining factor for them. They knew this was their calling. "We knew the job. We loved the job," Carter said.
HOLIDAY ROUTINE AT THE FIRE STATION
Imagine a fire station like an apartment. It has a full kitchen, dining area, and living area. During the holiday season, the crew decorate and make the space feel festive. They carve out time during their shifts to share a holiday feast, taking in the moments as they come while on call.
BALANCING WORK AND FAMILY
Collins, with a new baby at home, now five months old, is no stranger to the sacrifices that come with the job. Late nights, a long commute, and working holidays can take their toll. One of the responsibilities of a firefighter is working on important holidays like Christmas and birthdays. Both Collins and Carter make a point to celebrate with their families, even if it isn't on the exact date of the holiday.
Carter has four young kids. The toll of being a first responder requires more prioritization and attentiveness. "You have to keep in mind being present with your wife or husband and allot time to go on dates
“WE KNEW THE JOB. WE LOVED THE JOB.”
together, and you mix kids in. I've got two girls and two boys, ages ten, 7, 5, and 3. I walk in the mornings, and I usually have one kid on each leg," Carter said.
CAMARADERIE, PEER SUPPORT, AND A SECOND HOME
Collins and Carter laugh, and the crew always joke with one another. "We spend a third of our life together, so we're like family. We have fun. You can do your job and be good at it and still have fun," Collins said.
Peer support is vital in a job like emergency response with unpredictable and intense requirements. The support structure at Woodstock Fire Department
is not just strong, it's a lifeline. As Carter mentions, it's all about the people you work with: "Try to surround yourself with people that will be almost like family. I think that kind of camaraderie is pretty rare and tough to have, but I think it's something that's baked into the fire department, police department, and military." Working hard and doing hard work has created some deep bonds, Carter says.
While we're at home sharing festive meals, exchanging gifts, and savoring time with loved ones, first responders like Carter and Collins are also celebrating— but they remain on standby, prepared to step in at a moment's notice during our most vulnerable, frightening moments.
ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE
Local Faves
Bizarre Coffee
Bizarre Coffee is a funky and creative coffee shop located in Downtown Woodstock. Check out their fall flavors like Pumpkin Honey Butter, Wicked Apple, Salted Thai, Cozy Core, and The Basic Witch.
Back to Nature Holiday Market
Venture to Roswell for the Back to Nature Holiday Market at Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell — a serene haven for holiday shopping. Explore art, jewelry, candles, children’s gifts, bath products, food, and nature-inspired treasures.
Woodstock Flowers and Gifts
Woodstock Flowers and Gifts is the perfect choice for beautiful flowers and gifts for any occasion. They offer fresh flowers, green & blooming plants, gourmet baskets, chocolates, and balloon bouquets.
Deep Roots Wine Market
Deep Roots Wine Market offers a unique wine tasting experience with wines from all over the US, and visitors can also enjoy small plates from the kitchen.
Roswell Christkindl Market
Enjoy pictures with Santa, food, gift shopping, local vendors, and more. Located at Bulloch Hall in Roswell, 11/22-12/22
Lighting Up the Holidays
ARTICLE BY CANDI HANNIGAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLIDAY LIGHTS OF GEORGIA
with Holiday Lights of Georgia
Plenty of folks in our community may know David Pitts, a lifelong Cherokee County resident, and Mark Lallathin, a 15-year transplant from Ohio. What they may not know is that these two business owners are responsible for the biggest holiday light shows in Cherokee County - at Hobgood Park in Woodstock and Veterans Park in Cantonalong with expansions in Ellijay and Rome.
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Mark Lallathin (left) and David Pitts
David and Mark, owners of Holiday Lights of Georgia, have spent countless hours untangling thousands of light strands, building and painting dozens of displays and setting them up for local and not-so-local folks to enjoy on their seasonal pilgrimage to see the lights.
“From a single strand of lights, we now have over 10 million lights spread out in four shows,” Mark said. “Each show boasts more than 2 million lights, lighted tunnels, numerous trees and much more.”
SHEDDING LIGHT ON THE BEGINNING
David and Mark were busy with career pursuits — David as a vice president at Georgia Power and Mark as a vice president in the athletic footwear industry — when the idea of starting a lighting company fell into their laps.
In 2012, David was a member of the board of directors for the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. To raise funds, the board created a holiday light show at Hobgood Park and charged admission. Each year the attraction grew, and it became so popular after five years that the board could no longer manage it.
Mark entered the picture after the first two years of the show. He was running the track at Hobgood Park when the volunteers were setting up the lights, and he stopped to ask if he could help.
Not only did he jump in and help, Mark joined the board with David. Word of their work got around, and the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Agency approached them about creating a new show at Veterans Park. Their mutual interest in supporting the community turned into a business partnership: they started 112 Events in 2016.
“The first show was born out of a need to fundraise and the second show was added because the first did so well,” David said. The business was renamed Holiday Lights of Georgia, and shows in Rome and Ellijay have been added.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
With tens of thousands of visitors each year, David and Mark are intentional about creating new displays, moving and expanding them so there’s always something new or different to enjoy.
The entry tunnel at Hobgood Park has 1.8 miles of lights or more than 38,000 bulbs; the walking maze at Hobgood Park has more than a mile of lights. The roundabout tree at Veterans Park has more than 10,000 digital lights that have endless possibilities of graphics and digital designs. At Hobgood Park, 100 live trees are available for members of the community to decorate; for $100, the power is provided and each person’s creativity is the only limit.
While the business seems seasonal, it keeps them busy throughout the year. January is spent tearing down the displays. In February, David and Mark
“Each show boasts more than 2 million lights, lighted tunnels, numerous trees and much more.”
attend and catch up with colleagues at the largest annual convention held in St. Louis for Halloween and Christmas shows. March, April and May are spent meeting and planning, with construction starting in June and continuing until the displays are set in place starting in October. A seasonal crew is hired to help with construction, but more often than not, passersby who see the activity end up being part of a volunteer crew.
IT’S ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
While the shows bring joy to visitors of all ages, David and Mark delight in the roles they play in the lives of the people who visit. Their hours of hard work are rewarded when they hear laughter from the children lost in the maze, their anticipation as they search for the new displays. And, of course, the visit with Santa is the ultimate.
The displays often are the background for marriage proposals, spontaneous and planned. In 2022, someone asked if they could come to the park after closing and propose inside the lighted tunnel, with family members hidden and watching.
“In the early years, we had a big carriage that seemed to be a magnet for people to propose on,” David said. “We have had 12-15 proposals that we know about. Some of the couples come back years later with toddlers in tow.”
Their company provides lights for Night to Shine, the prom-night experience sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, as well as weddings and other special events. They’ve even landed on the big screen; their handiwork can be seen in the movie “Dear Santa” (2024). Watch for the holiday lights and decorations in the village scenes.
If you haven’t met David and Mark, now that their faces have graced this magazine, you can be on the lookout for them. Thank them for their hard work. And don’t forget to ask, “What’s new this year?”
Mark Your Calendars!
Hobgood Park, celebrating 13 years. 11/29 - 12/30, closed on Christmas Day.
Admission: $10 for adults; children ages 12 and younger are free. Proceeds go to the Anna Crawford Children’s Center.
Veterans Park, celebrating 8 years. 11/23 - 12/31, open every night. 5K race, 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 23 kicks off the season.
Admission: $20 per car. Proceeds go to various nonprofits including Speed for Need.
For more information, visit their website at holidaylightsofga.com
“In the early years, we had a big carriage that seemed to be a magnet for people to propose on,” David said. “We have had 12-15 proposals that we know about. Some of the couples come back years later with toddlers in tow.”
This data is a sampling of sold properties
“Marco Rossi exemplifies true professionalism and attention to detail. Every step of the way he gave it 110% and made us feel at ease. He took the stress out of a usually stressful situation of getting your home ready to sell and have multiple showings per day. He was able to get our house multiple offers within the first week of it being listed for sale! He knew we were under a time crunch and followed accordingly. Listen to what he says in order to get your house show ready! We trust him with everything! We will definitely use him again if needed. We highly refer Marco to anyone looking to sell or purchase a home.”
- Rocio B.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 5TH
Holiday Open House
Woodstock Public Library | 5:30 PM
It's the most wonderful time of the year at the Woodstock Public Library! Kickoff the holiday celebrations with an evening of performances, crafts, and a visit from a special guest from the North Pole! All ages welcome, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
DECEMBER 6TH AND 7TH
History
Cherokee’s
Various | 1:00 PM
Holiday Tour of Homes
This festive event offers an exclusive opportunity to explore five exquisitely decorated homes in historic downtown Canton, along with two beautifully adorned commercial buildings. Each location will be elegantly dressed in holiday décor, providing a magical setting sure to inspire your own seasonal celebrations. Find more information and get tickets at historycherokee.org/holiday-homes-tour
DECEMBER 6TH-24TH
A Christmas Carol
Woodstock Arts Theatre - 8534 Main St.
Do you love the tradition of seeing A CHRISTMAS CAROL with your whole family? What about great, big, splashy musicals? What about the thrill of discovering what new things we’ve cooked up in order to keep you surprised year after year?
DECEMBER 8TH
Christmas Jubilee & Parade of Lights
Downtown Woodstock | 5:30 PM
Join Downtown Woodstock as they ring in the holiday season with a joyful evening parade on Sunday, December 8th. Impressive lighted floats, local bands, and an appearance from Santa Claus himself are just a few of the highlights to be seen.
DECEMBER 14TH
Gingerbread House Workshop with Chef Michelle
Leaning Ladder Olive Oil - 105 East Main Street | 11:30 AM
This Holiday season learn to create a gingerbread house that is both beautiful and structurally sound - no more struggles with royal icing! Each student will receive a pre-baked house to start. Chef Michelle Pellegri of Roswell Baking Company will guide you through the assembly process and share decorating tips and tricks while utilizing an over-the-top candy buffet. All students will take their houses home.
DECEMBER 26TH-JANUARY 15TH
Christmas Tree Chip & Dip
Olde Rope Mill Park
Bring trees to Olde Rope Mill Park starting the day after Christmas and they’ll be fed to a chipper. The next week, bring a shovel and “dip” into the free mulch! City of Woodstock Stormwater Department offers free tree seedlings at the park on January 4th, 9-4 pm. No flocked, painted, or decorated trees!
Dr. Sunya Sweeney, DMD
Dr. Farah Kar, DDS, MS, MSc
CRAFTING CHEER:
DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
