SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 Town Center CID • SDS Wireless Consulting • Leading Edge Dentistry • Sheriff’s Jobs Program Frye GroupLaw Protecting its clients’ futures
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Garden BROUGHT TO YOU BY: STAY UP TO DATE ON SMYRNA EVENTS AT: PARK CHAIRYOURAND WAIT FOR FIREWORKS! Exact locations will be announced via social + website.
1:45 – 2:30 pm Belly Dancer – Fountain Area /Market Village 1:45 – 2:45 pm Spanish “Flamenco” Dance - City Hall 2:30 – 3:30 pm Fire Eater – W. Spring/ Wine Bar area Motown at the Market Village Fountain Stage
4:30 – 6:00 pm Austin Webb (Country) Fountain in Market Village 4:15– 6:15 pm ULA – Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band - King & Bank St. Stage 7:00 pm Toad The Wet Sprocket 8:30 pm FireworksTrain Show! Atlanta Main stage at Atlanta Rd. & Church St. pm pm Day Food & “Spirit” the Beer
Culture & Spirit SATURDAY,FestivalOCTOBER811:00am
Festival Opens Blue Grass – King & Bank St.
12:00 – 12:45 pm Chinese Dance at City Hall 12:45 – 1:45 pm Flamenco Music Guitar – King & Bank St.
7:00
Around
FREE Concert on
Violin Busker – W. Spring St./ Wine Bar area
2:45 – 3:45 pm 20s Jazz – King & Bank St. 3:30 – 3:50 pm Lunar Krew Dance – Fountain in Market Village 3:45 – 4:15 pm Cuban Dance/Salsa – City Hall Steel Drum Trio – Fountain in Market Village
Road!
Toad The Wet Sprocket 8:30
Train THESHOWFIREWORKSAFTERCONCERT!150TH CITY OF SMYRNA SMYRNAGA.GOV Instagram/CityofSmyrnaGaTwitter.com/SmyrnaNewsFacebook.com/CityofSmyrnaGa Performances ALL
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A conversation with Leading Edge Dentistry about the importance of good oral hygiene.
FALL FAMILY FUN A glimpse at some of the fall festivities and Halloween events happening in Cobb in September and October.
26 IN YOUR COMMUNITY Town Center Community’s landscape looks vastly different today with a variety of economic engines amidst burgeoning single family, multi-family, and active adult communities.
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Vol. XVIII, No. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER5 2022 FEATURE Contents
8 BUSINESS
SDS Wireless Consulting is in the business of helping cut wireless costs for businesses, governments, nonprofits, and healthcare providers across the country.
HEALTH
SHARPER FOCUS Find out what’s going on throughout Cobb County with our news updates and calendar of events.
12
The Cobb Collaborative works to promote literacy in Cobb County through a community-wide reading initiative.
19
The Marietta Business Association is hosting the 2nd Annual MBA Golf Tournament on Oct. 21, 2022, sponsored by Associated Credit Union.
On the cover: Kim Keheley Frye, Managing Partner and Founder of Frye Law Group. LaRuche Photo
When teens and adults face legal trouble, the Frye Law Group is there to help prevent it from derailing their lives.
28 IN YOUR COMMUNITY Cobb County’s reentry initiative offers education, training, and preparation for employment to qualifying inmates.
Photo:
Taking on Goliath
4 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
30 ARTS AND RECREATION
16 EDUCATION
32 FINAL FOCUS Empty nesters can, and should, enjoy this new chapter in their lives.
(two times per year) checkup and cleaning.
Just prior to the final I went to my dentist for my biannual As I have stated on this page previously, I have kept up with my regular dental appointments throughout the pandemic, which is something many Americans have not done. If you still haven’t returned to your dentist since the spring 2020, I strongly urge you to go. Good oral hygiene practices are a key factor in your overall health, and honestly, it doesn’t take much effort to take care of your teeth. To get these points across, I interviewed the dentists who own and operate Leading Edge Dentistry in Marietta. They explained the many benefits of proper oral hygiene. And as female business owners, they also discussed working in a male-dominated profession. This fascinating conversation begins on page 12.
New South Publishing Inc. President Larry Lebovitz Vice President John Hanna Publisher Jamie Ryan Account Executive Sherry Gasaway Editor Cory Sekine-Pettite Associate Editor Amy Meadows Graphic Designer Jack Simonetta Contributors Lindsay Field Penticuff, Writer Alexandra McCray, Writer Jennifer Morrell, Writer LaRuche Photo, Photography Production Coordinator/Circulation Amy Fine Controller Marilyn Walker facebook.com/cobbinfocuscobbinfocus.com@cobbinfocus Cobb in Focus™ is published six times a year by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA, 30350. Direct all editorial queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 100. Direct all circulation queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 130. Direct all advertis ing queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 142. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Mate rial in this publication may not be reprinted without written permission from the pub lisher. Copyright 2022 by New South Publish ing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. foreSight
Speaking of women leaders, our cover story this month is on the Frye Law Group and its Founder, Kim Keheley Frye. Mrs. Frye is an accomplished criminal defense attorney who discusses with us how she helps clients — particularly younger clients — see that they can come back from legal trouble and get their lives on track. Read this informative story start ing on page 20. In a similar vein, Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens and the Cobb Sheriff’s Foundation, Inc., have implemented a jobs program for inmates that prepares them for employment. This program shows them that there are ways in which they can live more productive lives. After all, isn’t that the very intent of incarceration in the first place? Details of this com mendable program can be found on page 28. There’s so much more in this magazine than I have space to discuss, but I hope you enjoy these articles mentioned above, as well as our features on Town Center CID’s 25th anniversary, the Cobb Collaborative, the Marietta Business Association’s golf tournament, and much more.
For address changes, email afine@cobbinfocus.com. ®
Contact Cobb in Focus We want to hear from you! Share your story ideas and comments with our editor. Visit cobbinfocus.com or send your suggestions to: cory@newsouthpublishing.net or New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350
COBB
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 5
PhotoLaRuchebyPhoto
production of this issue,
Here’s a snapshot of what’s going on in your community. S harper Focus
Three-Digit Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988
Former Cobb County Manager, James “Mack” Henderson, passed away in July at the age of 94. Henderson also was president of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce during a pivotal time and led the organization through a period of immense growth. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mack Henderson,” said Sharon Mason, current president and CEO of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. “He was an instrumental leader for our county and our chamber, our community.” The chamber instituted the Mack Henderson Public Service Award in 1993.
Cobb County has rolled out a new website for Senior Services to make it easier to find activities and to register for them. Visitors can see events, programs, classes and more by starting on the main page: cobbcounty.org/senior-services/ locations. Then, click on your favorite center’s name on the left. Next, click on the calendar icon “View All Activities.” You will be taken to My Active Center, where you can see all the activities offered at the center.
Cobb Mourns the Loss of James ‘Mack’ Henderson
The City of Austell has named Scott Hamilton the new chief of police. Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons said Hamilton is the first African American police chief in Cobb County history. Hamilton is a former Cobb County Deputy Police Chief, where he served for 27 years. He replaces Bob Starrett, the long-serving chief who resigned in December 2021 following a GBI investigation into discrepancies in paperwork tied both to the department’s K-9 unit and Starrett.
Cobb Chairwoman Hosts Second Dobbins ARB Stakeholders ChairwomanMeeting
As part of the 23rd annual Public Safety Appreciation Week (Oct. 2-8), the Cobb Chamber will honor Cobb County’s finest during a special recognition program at the Public Safety Appreciation Breakfast at the CocaCola Roxy on October 3. The breakfast will kick off a week-long effort to celebrate public safety personnel in Cobb County. For the complete list of nominees, visit cobbchamber.org/public-safety-awards.html.
New Senior Services Director Announced Cobb County has appointed Ioana Bovo-Nicolescu as Senior Services Director. She has an extensive background with more than 15 years of experience in non-profits, focusing on social services. She has coordinated and managed agency programs and operations as well as writing and managing grant programs. Bovo-Nicolescu joined Cobb Senior Services in 2016 as a budget specialist and grants manager before advancing to Human Services Division Manager in 2019.
Austell Names New Police Chief
Powder Springs Business Group Awards Scholarships
New Website for Senior Events
Lisa Cupid hosted a second roundtable meeting in early August to discuss the future of Dobbins Air Reserve Base and exchange ideas on how to ensure its continued success. Those in attendance received a briefing on all the activities and projects on the base contributing to its role as an economic powerhouse in Cobb. “The meeting allowed those in attendance to reaffirm our support for the base and each other’s interests. Working together, we can help ensure the success of Dobbins moving forward,” said Cupid.
In early July, the Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation hosted the groundbreaking ceremony for the veterans memorial following many years of planning and fundraising.
Congratulations are in order for Powder Springs Business Group’s 2022 Workforce Scholarship recipients. This year’s scholarship was sponsored by Blades Lawnmower Shop. This year’s scholars are Skyler Williams of Hillgrove High School, Dexter Kotor, Jordan McCrary, and Lynda Floreal, all from McEachern High School. Each scholar will receive $500, and all are planning to attend Chattahoochee Tech.
6 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
In early August, Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement regarding the activation of the new Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number: 988. “Individuals suffering from mental health issues need a number to call in order to get the help they desperately need immediately, which is exactly why the 988 number was established after Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act in 2020, during President Trump’s administration. This new number, officially activated last month, will allow those suffering from mental health issues to get help from trained mental health professionals instead of relying only on law enforcement. If you are struggling from a mental health issue, please text or call 988.”
Construction is expected to be completed in 2024.
The Memorial Park, at Cobb Civic Center at 502 Fairground Street SE, in Marietta, will feature a 142-foot “Star Tower” monument and honors walls listing the names of veterans from each military branch. It also will have a plaza for events, two reflection pools, and a service hub providing information to veterans and their families.
Judges Appointed to Cobb Superior Court Gov. Brian P. Kemp announced in July that he appointed GBI Director Vic Reynolds and Deputy Attorney General Julie Adams Jacobs to fill two vacancies on the Cobb Judicial Circuit Superior Court.
Cobb Chamber Announces 2022 Public Safety Award Nominees
Construction underway on Cobb Veterans Memorial
9/10 Rivers Alive Rivers Alive is an annual litter cleanup in Smyrna along the tributaries that run into the Chattahoochee River, which supplies drinking water for millions in the metro Atlanta area. More info: keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/rivers-alive
Smyrna is pulling out all the stops this year for its 150th birthday. Festivities begin in the Village Green at 11 a.m., and the concert featuring Train and Toad The Wet Sprocket starts at 6:30 p.m. More info: smyrnaga.gov
10/16 Generation to Generation Aloha to Aging will celebrate its 13th anniversary by hosting their celebration and expo at Covenant Presbyterian Church. More info: alohatoaging.org/expo
10/22 ‘Que & Brew
10/4 National Night Out
9/10
North Georgia State Fair
SEPTEMBEROCTOBER
Editor’s note: Due to evolving community needs, these events are subject to change or cancellation.
10/1 Autism Speaks Atlanta Walk
Chip In For Children’s
It’s the ultimate tailgate party! There will be BBQ cooked by professional teams, a beer tasting, live music, and a cornhole tournament. The funds go to LiveSafe Resources. More info: livesaferesources.org
10/29 Classic Car Cruise Main Street in downtown Acworth will be lined with classic cars from days gone by. Event kicks off at 4 p.m. More info: acworth.org
This annual event showcases many local restaurants. This event benefits numerous local schools and charities in our community. More info: acworth.org
Join your fellow cyclists in downtown Powder Springs from 7 a.m. to noon for this charity ride. More info: cityofpowdersprings.org
9/10 Great Locomotive Chase 5K Part of the KGP Race Series, proceeds from the Great Locomotive Chase benefit The Southern Museum. More info: kennesawgrandprix.com
9/10 Pizza, Pints & Pigskins
Join sports celebrities in an exclusive event to benefit Sweetwater Mission in its ongoing efforts to stabilize families by providing basic needs, and transforming lives through education and job-readiness programs. More info: sweetwatermission.org/golf
The Autism Speaks Walk is back. It begins at 8 a.m. at The Battery Atlanta. Teams and individuals can register. More info: autismspeaks.org
The 2022 Superior Plumbing North Georgia State Fair returns to Jim R. Miller Park with fun rides, concerts, and great food. More info: northgeorgiastatefair.com 9/24 Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life
The Georgia Symphony Orchestra will relax house rules and encourages the audience to respond to the music however they choose, whether that be moving around the concert hall, dancing, or vocalizing along with the music. More info: georgiasymphony.org
10/15 Sensory Friendly Concert
Sweetwater Mission Golf Tournament
9/13-27 Food Truck Tuesday Smyrna’s Food Truck Tuesdays at Taylor-Brawner Park conclude in September. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. More info: smyrnaga.gov
10/8 Taste of Acworth
Enjoy a crisp fall day on the golf course at Marietta City Club while supporting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. More info: choa.org
9/26
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 7
Welcome to South Cobb Festival
10/6
Shepherd’s Men Dinner & Auction
10/17
The event takes place at Logan Farm Park and features pizzerias from all over Cobb County. More info: acworthtourism.org
9/22 - 10/2
10/15 Pop-In For Family Fun Come and explore the Marietta History Museum on the 3rd Saturday of every month with family fun activities. October’s topic is Ghosts & Ghouls. More info: mariettahistory.org
9/17 Taste of Smyrna Experience a wide selection of foods and big helpings of entertainment, too. Taste all that Smyrna restaurants have to offer in one place! Admission is free. More info: smyrnaga.gov 9/17 Pop-In For Family Fun Come and explore the Marietta History Museum on the 3rd Saturday of every month with family fun activities. September’s topic is Natural Wonders. More info: mariettahistory.org
This is a fundraiser for veterans injured with TBI/ PTSD, featuring a fish fry, chipping contest, silent & live auctions, music & more. More info: shepherdsmen.com
10/8 Smyrna’s Birthday Celebration
This free event at Thurman Springs Park in Powder Springs is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. More info: cityofpowdersprings.org
It’s Cobb on the River 2.0! Celebrating South Cobb’s outdoor and nature-based resources. Featuring live national and local bands, food trucks and tents, merchandise vendors, and a huge children’s area. More info: Welcometosouthcobb2.eventbrite.com
B usiness Saving Time And Money SDS Wireless Consulting is in the business of helping cut wireless costs for businesses, governments, nonprofits, and healthcare providers across the country. 8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
In 2012, he founded his own com pany, SDS Wireless Consulting. The busi ness was initially headquartered in Cobb County before Small relocated to Sum merville. However, his business colleague and brother, Earl Small, is a longtime Kennesaw resident who formerly worked as a CPA and then for Yamaha Motor Corp. He came out of retirement to help his brother operate SDS.
F or Steven Small, president of SDS Wireless Consulting, his work is all about helping businesses, govern ments, nonprofits, and healthcare systems, save time and money. These ser vices can indirectly help save taxpayers, and patients save money, as well.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 9
Mr. Small has been in the wireless industry since 2001 and has worked with all the major wireless providers, including Nextel Communications, Sprint Corpora tion, Verizon Wireless, and AT&T. “I was an investment adviser and was looking for something that didn’t have an end to it, and hopefully didn’t have the peaks and valleys that I was experiencing in the industry I was in,” Small recalls. “And I was right, because the wireless industry is ever expanding.”
By Lindsay Field Penticuff
Since then, it’s become all about the amount of data that clients are buying since people are using smartphones, tab lets, and hotspot devices. Small has spe cifically noticed when working with law enforcement clients, for example, that the hotspot devices in their vehicles connected to their computer system, may only be using .001 gigabit of data per month.
Since starting the business, Small has been most proud of two large savings he found for clients: Floyd Medical Center in Rome was able to lower their bill by about 43 percent, saving them approximately $60,000 annually in wireless costs. And with Davey Tree Expert Company, one of the largest tree services companies in the United States, SDS not only identified $150,000 a year in savings, but secured the company a $100,000 credit. “That was a major achievement, and the one that really got us going!” Small says. When SDS first launched, the focus was on saving clients money by looking at the minutes they used monthly. At that time, clients were buying minutes, based on the usage reports from their wireless carrier, which included on-peak and offpeak minutes, which were free. So, the customers were continually over-buying minutes. “We would go in and separate the off-peak from the on-peak minutes and put them on the plans with the cor rect number of minutes,” says Small.
B usiness
“It’s about making sure the customer is comfortable going in and knowing what the potential savings are before we even move forward with a contract,” Small says. Their average savings? “We’ve never audited a bill that we couldn’t find as least 20 percent in savings,” he adds.
“As the Sole County Commissioner of Chattooga County, Georgia, I realize and appreciate the difficulty of raising revenue and managing our county’s budget. Steven and SDS Wireless Consulting performed their wireless cost reduction services as promised. I highly recommend Steven Small and SDS Wireless Consulting to any municipality or county government interested in procuring significant wireless savings. They are very professional, easy to work with, take a very small amount of your time, and are in no way disruptive to our wireless services.”
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“We work with businesses, municipal governments, county governments and medical centers to significantly reduce the cost of their wireless billings.”
–Jason Winters, Sole Commissioner, Chattooga County
Small says he started SDS because he learned from his experience in the wire less industry that customers are routinely overcharged for their wireless service. “I know that’s a strong statement, but it’s true,” he says. “So, we work with busi nesses, municipal governments, county governments, organizations, and medical centers to help them lower the cost of their wireless bills.” And they provide this service without any of these entities having to change their wireless provider. “We work with our customers to find the pricing that they should be getting by helping them choose the right plans, buy the appropriate data that matches their usage and cleaning up their accounts,” he says. When SDS reviewed a large Atlanta area county government’s administrative account, for example, it identified more than 30 percent in wireless savings. The company has worked with several county governments in Georgia, including Bar tow, Walker, Fannin, and Chattooga, as well as audited municipal and businesses accounts from Florida to Washington state. SDS does not require a contract or any commitment to do an initial audit.
–Steven Small, President, SDS Wireless Consulting
“If an officer is using that little data, they don’t need pay for an unlimited data plan like so many of our clients may have,” Small says. “There are data plans for as little as $12 a month that the client should beAsusing.”auditors of data and wireless usage, Small and his brother initially review 12 months of a client’s wireless usage, review ing each line to see what the exact usage
REVIEWS
“Floyd Medical Center has been using the wireless cost reduction services of SDS Wireless Consulting since January 2017. Since that time, SDS has lowered our Verizon bill by 43 percent ($60,000/year). Floyd Medical Center would not have received these savings on our wireless account if it had not been for Steven Small’s detailed work and dedicated efforts on our behalf. Steven and SDS have always been professional, detailed, and easy to work with. I enthusiastically recommend Steven and his team at SDS Wireless Consulting.” –Kim PlantDixon, Executive Assistant, IS&T, Floyd Medical Center
Small also has had the pleasure of work ing with the Family Guidance Center in Alabama. They are a nonprofit outreach group that serves underserved, rural com munities across the state, helping with prenatal care, children’s services, educa tion, health and mental health services.
“We give our customers back money, because we only get paid if they save money and then we receive a percent of that savings,” Small concludes. “We also save them time, because my brother, hav ing worked in business account for 25 years, puts together a wireless reporting outline that helps their accounting per sonnel verify the savings. It’s typically an all-day process, but thanks to this process, they can help cut that down to about two hours. We truly do give organizations time and money.”
“They were having major budget cuts, and we were able to help put money back in their pockets,” he says. “That allows SDS to indirectly help those in need.”
And Small adds that SDS is “carrier agnostic,” meaning they work with all the wireless carriers. However, he did add that most of his clients use Verizon or AT&T, especially first responders since both now offer discounted plans for them.
Another important piece of the puzzle has been SDS’ relationship with carriers and understanding what plans are avail able. “Even though we are kind of taking money out of their pockets, we’ve built relationships because they know that we are also taking very good care of their customers, and they aren’t likely to leave if they are happy customers,” says Small.
“They are specially priced and get priority connectivity if there’s an emergency,” he adds. “They will be able to get wireless service when no one else can.”
There are benefits to the counties they serve, too. SDS is helping clients save on costs that taxpayers would have to pay.
n
SDS Wireless Consulting 10366 N Commerce St. Summerville, GA 30747 stevensmall@sdswirelessconsulting.comsdswirelessconsulting.com770.722.9177
“One of ConsultingSDSSmall,services.”wirelessthroughofhelpSDSunderservedtheirreceivethereductionshavingworknonprofitsthewewithwassignificantingrantstheytoprovideservicestoareas.wasabletoreplacesomethesefundsoursavings–StevenPresident,Wireless SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 11
is. Then, they will look even closer at the past six months to get a better reflection of the usage to make sure everyone is on the right wireless plan.
12 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
A t the beginning of the COVID19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, when health officials didn’t know much about the virus, one of the recommendations issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) was for people to delay dental care. Well, we all soon learned that medical-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) would prevent transmission of COVID-19. So, if your den tist and dental hygienist wore masks, you could seek treatment safely and your dentist would be protected from possible exposure as well. Following that WHO suggestion, the American Dental Association’s (ADA) then-President, Chad P. Gehani, D.D.S., issued a statement strongly disagreeing with the WHO, declaring: “Dentistry is essential health care because of its role in evaluat ing, diagnosing, preventing or treating oral diseases, which can affect systemic health.” This statement holds true whether or not we are in the midst of a pan demic. It’s accepted knowledge that good oral hygiene is fundamental to overall health and wellness. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a growing body of evidence has linked oral health, particularly periodon tal (gum) disease, to several chronic dis eases, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In pregnant women, poor oral health has also been associated with pre mature births and low birth weight. With this information, Cobb In Focus sought out local dentists to talk about how oral hygiene is a foundation for good health. Meet Dr. Dimple Patel, D.M.D., and Dr. Radha Patel, D.M.D. (no relation) who own and operate Leading Edge Dentistry in Marietta. Leading Edge Dentistry was founded by Dr. Michael L. Howard, D.D.S., more than 30 years ago. The practice offers full-service dentistry that utilizes the lat est techniques and technology for patient care. Leading Edge is known for its warm, friendly environment, whether patients desire a simple check-up and cleaning, or more involved restorative and cosmetic procedures. The Drs. Patel bought into the practice in recent years and now operate the business while Dr. Howard has taken on a more diagnostic role. So, what else sets this practice apart?
An Ounce of Prevention…
A conversation with Leading Edge Dentistry about the importance of good oral hygiene.
By Cory Sekine-Pettite
H ealth
www.agrhodes.org/legacyofcare “Most of us think, ‘if it’s not hurting, it’ll kind of go away.’ But with dental health, once you start having pain, that’s when you know that things are on the severe spectrum.”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 13
“We love the demographics of peo ple here [in Cobb],” said Dr. Dimple Patel. “They’re very friendly, extremely intelligent, and in tune with their health needs, which makes practic ing dentistry very rewarding. We love building long-lasting relationships with the family-oriented people here. And it just helps us to ensure good, long-term dental health through having long-lasting relationships.”
Help us create A LEGACY OF CARE as we pioneer what it means to live well during all stages of life – regardless of age, diagnosis, or socioeconomic status.
While Leading Edge Dentistry is known for its cosmetic work (restorations, whit ening, veneers, cosmetic bonding, etc.) that can repair a patient’s smile and their confidence, the doctors aren’t focused on vanity. “The patients are able to see our skill and the changes in their smile,” Dr. Radha Patel said. “And it’s very rewarding when the patients can actually see [the changes].”
While most dental professionals are aware that patient comfort is impor tant, Leading Edge Dentistry makes it a priority. From high-tech laser den tistry to tension-reducing terry-cloth neck rolls to the caring smiles and per sonal attention patients receive at each appointment, a comfortable, stressfree dental visit is always the goal.
“We can not only change the aesthetics, but also provide help in so many differ ent ways involving their overall health. So, it’s been very rewarding,” added Dr. Dimple Patel. Their reputation for improving smiles is but one differentiator. Another factor would A.G. Rhodes is embarking on a landmark effort. We recently began construction to build a new home on our Cobb campus that will improve the quality of care and safety of elders, particularly for those living with dementia.
–Dr. Radha Patel, D.M.D.
“When I was practicing at the VA hospi tal — I did my residency there — most of the patients had never been treated by a female dentist, especially one from a diverse background,” said Dr. Radha Patel. “It took patients time to get used to a female in this role. So, it’s not necessarily something that’s new, but it’s something that’s becom ing more prevalent now. More and more women are entering the dental field and succeeding.”
According to the doctors, about 80 percent of us have some level of gingival or gum inflammation or infection caused by the buildup of plaque in and around the gums. Generally speaking, that isn’t indicative of poor health or bad oral hygiene. There are many factors at play from diet to body chemistry. “It could be due to hygiene, but it could also be due to medications or underlying medical conditions in the body. So, there are various factors that can lead to gum disease.” said Dr. Dimple Patel.
According to the ADA, among the 201,927 dentists working in the profession as of 2021, just 35.9 percent are female. But that number has been rising steadily since 2010 when female dentists made up just 24 per cent of the profession. Diversity in the den tal workforce is improving as well, the ADA reports, though most of the field — about 70 percent — is white.
H ealth be the amount of time they spend with their patients. “Healthcare is driven in so many different directions these days. Patients don’t necessarily always feel like they’re heard, or their voice gets lost,” Dr. Dimple Patel said. “What sets us apart is that we really listen to our patients to gain a better understanding of what will allow the patient to succeed in the whole treatment process.”
Why you should practice good oral hygiene
The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. The ADA reports that at this stage, the disease is reversible. Eliminating the infection can be as easy as a trip to the dentist’s office for a professional cleaning. And prevention can be as easy as daily brushing and flossing. Typically, gum dis ease is painless, so you wouldn’t even know you have it, which is why it is critical to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.“Everypatient is different, and their den tal needs vary as well,” Dr. Dimple Patel continued. “Some people require cleanings three to four times a year, while others may need cleanings twice a year. So, it’s really dependent on each individual’s dental and gingival health conditions.”
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A women-owned business
Dr. Dimple Patel is a native of South Carolina. She attended Emory University in Atlanta, where she attained degrees in Psychology and Religion while also completing her science requirements for dental school. Upon graduation with honors in 2000, Dr. Patel returned home to attend dental school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. When she completed dental school in 2005, Dr. Patel returned to Atlanta to pursue her career in general dentistry. She has been delivering excellent dental care to her community in the Greater Atlanta area for the last 17 years before joining Leading Edge Dentistry. So, why did she choose a career in dentistry? “I enjoy dentistry because I like working creatively with my hands and providing a service to patients that can change their smiles and outlook, while also providing a service that can really benefit their overall health as well,” she said.
Dr. Radha Patel attended the University of Georgia for her undergraduate degree. During her time in Athens, she volunteered with and worked for numerous dental non-profit organizations. It was during this time that she realized her true passion for dentistry. After completing her undergraduate degree, Dr. Patel attained her Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania and then went on to complete another year of advanced education in general dentistry from the Veteran’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. She has been practicing general dentistry in Atlanta for the past six years. So, why did she choose a career in dentistry? Dr. Patel finds dentistry to be rewarding as it allows her the opportunity to put a smile on the faces of her patients while also improving the quality of their oral health. “While in college, I worked as a nurse’s assistant and shadowed many different medical professionals. I have an artistic side, so dentistry felt the most natural to me. I found dentistry to not only be engaging, but also tremendously rewarding,” she said.
“With the mouth, it’s not true that ‘if it doesn’t hurt, it’s not a problem,’” Dr. Radha Patel added. “But with dental health, once you start having pain, that’s when you know that things are more on the severe spectrum.”Additionally, you may be diligent about brushing and flossing, but did you know there are proper techniques? Consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on the best method for your situation. And for general guidelines, the ADA has brushing and floss ing instructional videos on their website at mouthhealthy.org.Ignoringyouroral hygiene for too long can lead to chronic or aggressive forms of Meet the doctors
While a link is not conclusive, some stud ies indicate that severe gum disease may be associated with several other health conditions such as diabetes or stroke. And the link to heart disease is being seen as a little more conclusive. According to the Harvard-affiliated Forsyth Institute, a notfor-profit research organization focused on oral health, chronic inflammation — including that of periodontal disease — is a key contributor to many health problems, especially atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries around the heart).
“There have been studies that show a lot of bacteria that are found in the mouth have [also] been found around the heart,” Dr. Radha Patel said. “So, there are a lot of correlations between your dental health and your overall health.”
—Dr. Dimple Patel, D.M.D.
Bottom line: Don’t put off your oral checkups and don’t ignore any problems you may be having with your teeth or gums. You know the proverb: An ounce of preven tion is worth a pound of cure.
“What sets us apart is that we really listen to our patients to gain a better understanding of what will allow each patient to succeed in their whole treatment process.”
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Leading Edge Dentistry 3475 Dallas Hwy #310, Marietta, GA 30064 leadingedgedentistry.com770.425.2001
gum disease leading to gum loss, tooth decay, tooth loss, or worse. The ADA reports that research between systemic dis eases and periodontal diseases is ongoing.
E ducation
A s the local point of con tact for the Get Georgia Reading Campaign, the Cobb Collaborative works to promote literacy in Cobb County through a com munity-wide reading initiative that unites families, educators, and community part ners. Data reveals that children who read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely to graduate from high school — paving the way to higher education, better employment opportu nities, and improved health outcomes.
As one of many solutions geared toward improving outcomes for children and fam ilies, proficient literacy and language skills have been proven to directly influence the opportunities and successes of their lives.
Children’sNourishingImaginations
By Irene Barton, Executive Director of Cobb Collaborative
Early Learning Work: The Basics Incredibly, the human brain doubles in size in the first year. It keeps growing to about 80 percent of adult size by age 3 and 90 per cent — nearly full grown — by age 5. That’s why the earliest years are critical to develop ing strong readers and engaged students. Our commitment to literacy begins with our youngest residents and their families and is anchored by The Basics. The Basics consists of five principles that were distilled from scientific litera ture by the Achievement Gap Initiative at Harvard University to create equity across all backgrounds for every child. The framework uses a public health approach called socioecological satura tion to achieve this. We know that parents and caregivers want the best for their children, yet all kids today are subject to stress and competing demands on their time and resources. We also acknowl edge that parents give care and attention
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ChattahoocheeTech.edu/98-7-chattahoochee-tech-podcasts Chatt98.7 Tech Podcast It’s all things Chatt Tech Listen Now
Collaborative offers training to community partners and shares print and digital resources supporting The Basics. We also offer interactive and five
One of the most successful ways to improve the achievementreading of children is to increase access to books, especially at home.
The principles along with a tip sheet. Our Basics resources are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Little Free Libraries
within their own contexts, whether that is cultural or experiential. In the spring of 2021, the Cobb Collaborative was selected as one of only 10 sites across Georgia to bring The Basics collective impact model to our community. The five principles support social, emotional, and cognitive development of children up to 5 years old, helping to boost brain development and improving kindergarten readiness. The principles combine scientific rigor with a broad coverage of key domains of early-childhood development and are simple enough to commit to memory for efficient program implementation: 1. Maximize Love, Manage Stress 2. Count, Group and Compare 3. Talk, Sing and Point 4. Explore through Movement and Play 5. Read and Discuss Stories
Driven by the motivation of increasing access Free Library (LFL) is a nonprofit organi zation dedicated to putting books in the hands of children and adults in communi ties around the world. These book-sharing boxes remove barriers to book access by being available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day with free accessibility. They operate under the “Take One, Leave One” theory which encourages readers to not only take a book, but to leave one for others when there is an ability to do so. Research tells us that start ing from birth, frequent and interactive book reading is associated with cognitive and language development. One of the most successful ways to improve the read ing achievement of children is to increase access to books, especially at home. This is a quintessential collaborative effort, with addi tional partners including the Cobb County School District, United Way of Greater Atlanta Northwest Region, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, businesses, civic associations and private foundations.
A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution.
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We enjoy collecting gently loved books and distributing them at community events, restocking our Little Free Libraries and building classroom libraries for teachers.
Credit Union of Georgia teamed up recently with MUST Ministries to help bring in an abundance of school supplies for local students in need. Donations (school supplies and hygiene kits) were collected throughout the month of July at each Credit Union of Georgia branch location for the MUST Ministries Back to School Drive. MUST distributed these supplies in August at the South Cobb Rec Center.
The Cobb Collaborative is a membership of nonprofit organizations, local government, businesses, faith-based organizations, edu cational institutions, professional organiza tions, associations, and residents who share ideas, expertise, and resources to improve outcomes for children and families in Cobb. Visit www.cobbcollaborative.org to learn more.
The collective goal is not to “beat the odds” for a small number of children, but to change the odds for every child.
The Collaborative distributed 4,880 books in 2021 and are on pace to exceed that number in 2022. We invite anyone who is cleaning out bookshelves to keep us in mind if you have children’s books. We’ll be happy to redeploy those! Many lowincome neighborhoods are “book deserts,” meaning that it is difficult to access chil dren’s books. Books develop and nourish children’s imaginations, expanding their worlds. They create questions and provide answers. Books inspire us. n
“MUST does so much good for individuals, families and children in our communities. By collecting school supplies and dental/hygiene kits in our branch locations we feel we are playing a small part in supporting MUST’s mission,” said Brian Albrecht, Credit Union of Georgia President/CEO.
E ducation ecosystem and learning environment for children from birth to third grade. The goal of the “Literacy and Justice for All” grant is to use a community-wide com mitment to the Science of Reading to empower every child in Marietta to be a proficient reader by the end of third grade. This work is critically important as schools address both the significant learning loss resulting from the pandemic and the gaps in opportunity that often occur around literacy in our communi ties. Marietta-based investments from the United Way includes teaching resources, trauma-informed training, professional development, social-emotional learning, community programming, early learning opportunities, personnel, and evaluation.
“Pop Up” Book Giveaways
The Cobb Collaborative leads “Literacy Ambas sador” volunteers from each of Marietta City Schools elementary campus. Ambas sadors share their unique perspectives as parents, family members, and caregivers of current students and are a “trusted voice” to their peers. Ambassadors are champions for their school, Marietta City Schools, and the Literacy & Justice For All initiative. They are an integral piece of the process of bringing educators and community leaders together to tackle the issue of literacy and helping every child be on a path of reading proficiency and ultimately to leading a life of self-determination.
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Credit Union of Georgia Teams Up with MUST Ministries
This 10k/5k race is celebrating its 14th year! The annual event is organized by Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia to raise funds for the visually impaired. Runners are encouraged to wear Morecostumes.info: spooktacularchase.com 10/29-30 Crafts & Drafts Fall Festival
10/15
Fall Family Fun
This growing fall festival in Smyrna is free to the public. The event begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. More info: smyrnaga.gov
HarvestFest
The Acworth Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the annual Acworth Jam-BOO-ree at Logan Farm Park. Yes, there will be a costume contest! More info: acworth.com
This local favorite in Marietta Square returns with renowned artists, beer tents, and more! All proceeds go to the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art. More info: chalktoberfest.com
10/16 Truck Or Treat
The festival includes the HarvestFest Arts & Crafts Show, Pie Eating Contest, Touch-A-Truck, Scarecrows In The Square, Costume Contest and Halloween Happenings kid’s festival. More info: marietta.gov
10/22 Halloween Jam-BOO-ree
10/15 FALL-O-WEEN
Kennesaw Parks & Recreation beckons area ghouls, ninjas, superheroes and for its annual evening of free carnival games, trick or treating, children’s amusements, and costumed family-fun. More info: kennesaw-ga.gov
Celebrate the fall season at SwiftCantrell Park in Kennesaw from 4-9 Morep.m.info: kennesaw-ga.gov
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10/8-9
10/22 Pumpkin Day Pumpkin Day at Still Family Farm in Powder Springs returns on October 22. More info: stillfamilyfarm.com/ fall-fun 10/22 Spooktacular Chase
Chalktoberfest
Taking GoliathOn 20 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
Pictured left to right: Executive Assistant Kera Hawks, Managing Partner Kim Keheley Frye, Attorney Chelsea Thomas, Legal Administrator Geurin McGovern, and Client Support Specialist Brittani Mazzeo.
By Alexandra McCray
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 21
When teens and adults face legal trouble, the Frye Law Group is there to help prevent it from derailing their lives.
Crimes of all classifications are taken seri ously today, and technology makes it easier for people — especially teens and young adults who often use technology at high levels — to incriminate themselves. A mes sage that may have been posted or sent as a joke or exaggeration can appear as prime evidence to law enforcement and prosecu tors. “Sometimes, kids will come to me, and they still don’t think it’s that big of a deal,” says Frye. She helps them understand that these choices are in fact a big deal to their future. Kids often will say to her, “‘Well, I didn’t really mean that.’”
Convictions, of course, also have conse quences. Frye explains that it’s common for colleges and universities to ask applicants if they’ve been convicted of a crime, especially
—Kim Keheley Frye, Managing Partner and Founder of Frye Law Group
Current events mean the police are no longer likely to give someone the benefit of the doubt for lesser crimes like vandalism and pranks, explains Frye. She says that many times, her clients don’t understand the trail they’re leaving behind on social media and in messages. “Anything — pic tures, threats, all kinds of things — that you put on Snapchat, WhatsApp, Kik, it’s not really going to disappear. Somebody’s going to have that, and that could cause a lot of problems,” Frye says. “Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, the authorities can get into pretty easily. So, if you’re taking a picture of your self with a gun and putting it on Instagram, they’ll have that. These are the kinds of things that kids just don’t even realize.”
“A lot of people don’t realize that even one minor arrest can take months, sometimes years, depending on when you’re arrested, to get resolved.”
The landscape today
Frye Law Group’s Kim Keheley Frye and Chelsea Thomas.
T here was once a time when, if the police caught a few teens drink ing alcohol, they would pour out the containers, scold the young sters, and make sure they got home safely, explains Kim Keheley Frye, manag ing partner and founder of Frye Law Group, a Marietta firm specializing in criminal defense. “That kind of stuff doesn’t really happen anymore, and you can’t depend on that to happen,” she says.
The government’s not going to try to get it, and they’re the only ones that can, really,”
Frye
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Andsays.being suspected or accused of crimi nal activity can dramatically alter a young person’s future. “A lot of people don’t real ize that even one minor arrest can take months, sometimes years, depending on when you’re arrested, to get resolved,” Frye says. “While that’s pending, that can have huge effects on where you go to school, what kind of jobs you get, whether you can have a job in another state. In some instances, whether you can go into another country.
“Unfortunately, in our system, the only way to make it fast is to basically plead guilty and accept whatever the government wants to give you, and that’s again a situation where people can be taken advantage of.”
What can be worse, she explains, is that, while it’s easy for the government to get ahold of these items as evidence against the poster/sender, it can be difficult for the poster/sender to retrieve items that have “disappeared” or been deleted for their defense. “That conversation might exoner ate you in that situation, but we can’t get it.
Knowing who’s on your side
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For all her clients, Frye stresses the impor tect themselves from the legal system when they’re suspected or accused of a crime. 678-486-1111
for anything alcohol related. A 2009 survey by the Center for Community Alternatives found that having a criminal record can potentially derail an acceptance. Addition ally, those who may want to join the military right out of high school, won’t be able to if they’re on probation, Frye says. When it comes to future career oppor tunities, she explains that convictions can potentially bar people from professions that require licenses — medicine, law, real estate, and insurance, for example. “I get tons of people wanting me to early termi nate their probation or get their records cleared off because they find out later in life how much trouble something that they weren’t prosecuted on, that they just got arrested on, can cause them,” says Frye.
“So, knowing how they’re going to handle something or knowing some of the things that particular prosecutor’s office does like diversion or accountability court and things like that are helpful.”
She suggests not only getting an attorney right away, but finding one who special izes in criminal defense and is familiar with the area a person is facing charges in.
talk to their child, a parent should not waive their constitutional rights for them without talking to a lawyer,” she says. “I’ve had so many parents be brokenhearted because they thought the police officer or whoever they were talking to was trying to help their child, and they allow them to speak to their child. Their child makes incriminat ing statements, and they were the architect of them doing that. A parent might say, ‘Oh, well, just tell the officer the truth because that’ll go better for you.’ That’s not typically the case. And a lot of people ask police offi cers, ‘Do I need a lawyer now?’ Well, they’re not going to tell you that you need one.”
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Frye says criminal defense is a common specialty for attorneys to dabble in and that people may be tempted to hire an attorney who does a little of everything but that’s not the way to go. “We specialize in only criminal defense and the reason we do that is because we’re really good at that. I’m not going to do your divorce. I’m probably not going to take your car wreck case. But I know a good attorney who can do it, so I’m happy to let you know who to call for that, but we really just want to help people who are in trouble,” she says. “We see some peo ple who feel like there’s no future, there’s no hope, that they’ve messed up beyond reason. And we try to get them past that.”
—Kim Keheley Frye, Managing Partner and Founder of Frye Law Group The Frye Law Group team: Geurin McGovern, Kim Keheley Frye, Chelsea Thomas, Brittani Mazzeo, and Kera Hawks.
“Knowing the ‘lay of the land’ is important. We’ve got 11 superior court judge posi tions. We have 12 state court positions. We have four juvenile court judges. We have multiple magistrate court judges. So, just right here in downtown Marietta, you’ve got 30-plus judges and all of them are a little bit different. And you’ve got prosecutors in the individual courtrooms, and all of them are a little bit different,” she explains.
Protecting futures Her firm commonly handles cases for peo ple of all ages who’ve been accused of a crime for the first time. Frye says that peo ple who come to her often never thought “We see some people who feel like there’s no future, there’s no hope, that they’ve messed up beyond reason. And we try to get them past that.”
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Frye understands how important that flexibility is and how those outcomes can help protect her clients’ futures. She also knows that an arrest or a conviction always leaves a mark, she says, but she aims to mitigate that mark for her clients. “We’re all going to make a mistake,” she says. “But does that mistake have to ruin the rest of your life or change the trajectory of your life?” In 2021, she launched the Frye Law Group Onward Scholarship to provide one or more local high school seniors who’ll be first-generation college students but have had run-ins with the law and may not have the best academic record with $1,500 for school expenses.
Because many of the cases the firm takes on rely heavily on scientific evidence, the team stays up to date on the latest field and lab testing procedures. Additionally, Frye says the team prides itself on its creative solutions and works to get clients’ lives back to as close to normal as possible. “It doesn’t have to just be what the state says it is. We try to create different opportunities. We try to give the government an option to not put our clients in custody or to not give them strict probations. We try to be flexible and creative that way,” she explains.
they’d be in this kind of situation. “It’s been really empowering to fight the gov ernment and to stand up against them no matter what for your client,” she says. “People ask me all the time, ‘How do you represent guilty people?’ And I tell them every time, ‘I don’t represent guilty people. I represent people.’ Interest in guilt is for across the street. I’m not wor ried about that. I don’t want them to go this alone. I don’t want them to not be protected when the government’s coming forFryethem.”says it’s also rewarding to help people who may have been struggling with mental illness, substance abuse, or simply going down a bad path turn their lives around. She explains, “I always say this to people, ‘This can be your first arrest or your last, which one do you want it to be?’ Especially when it’s a young person. It’s just trying to get people to understand that these experiences are recoverable from and that we’ve just got to work through the system.” She knows the system well, and more importantly, how prosecutors think. Before she started Frye Law Group in 2008 so she’d have more freedom with her schedule to care for her oldest son, Frye was a prosecu tor. You’ll find evidence of her tough repu tation from day one in her office. “There’s a frying pan here that’s engraved with ‘Maximum Frye,’ and I think, actually, one of our current judges is the one who gave it to me when I left prosecution,” she says with a laugh.What started with Frye answering her own phone has now grown into a team of five, including herself, and helping more than 1,000 clients over the years. The firm offers criminal defense, pre-arrest criminal investigations, expungement and record restriction, Marietta academic misconduct defense, probation termination, and sex offender registration removal services. Frye says, “I know very few people who’ve never broken the law at all, you know, speeding or parking illegally or anything like that, but they just don’t think it can be as bad for them because they’re a good person. Well, good people get arrested all the time.”
The scholarship is one Frye has a personal connection to since she was the first person in her family to gradu ate from college. She originally had her heart set on going into politics, and says, “I went to [The University of] Georgia as a psychology major but switched to criminal justice pretty quickly, and I relate it back to high school and middle school in that, I think, that’s where I really learned that people wouldn’t really stand up for me. …I realized that standing up for other people and protecting other people is so impor tant. I represent a lot of young people and though parents love and take care of them, sometimes they don’t feel that. So, it really helps the kids sometimes to have somebody really go to bat for them that’s not a person that’s supposed to.”
I n Your Community
Town Center Community’s landscape looks vastly different today with a variety of economic engines amidst burgeon ing single family, multi-family, and active adult communities. Today, the district still nurtures a robust retail environ ment but is now home to manufacturing, industrial, freight & logistics, and fin-tech companies, an international airport, and several global and North American cor porate headquarters. Importantly, Town Center also is the home of Kennesaw State University with more than 43,000 students, an expanding campus, state-ofthe-art facilities, championship winning athletics, and world-class academics. Growing communities do not happen overnight. They take vision, leadership, and investment. For 25 years, Town Center Community Improvement District (Town Center CID) has led with a vision to help make Town Center Community a vibrant place to grow a business, raise a family, shop and work, earn a degree, and enjoy the outdoors. Town Center CID has inno vated throughout its history to meet the
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Alot can change in 25 years. Cobb long-timers may remem ber Town Center as an up-andcoming retail area with a new mall surrounded by emergent neighbor hoods. Folks might even recall the pas tures and farms pre-dating the mall.
“We have so much to celebrate in Town Center and are excited to build on our 25-year legacy of impact,” says Town Center
Large infrastructure projects include the Skip Spann Bridge, Big Shanty Connec tor, Noonday Creek Trail, South Bar rett Reliever, Aviation Park, Bells Ferry Trailhead, and Founders Park. The CID’s non-profit placemaking partner, Town Center Alliance, has developed projects to compliment the extensive infrastruc ture investment such as public art and education exhibits at Aviation Park, a Chimney Swift Tower and bridge mural along Noonday Creek Trail, a bikeshare program, and community programming like Yoga in the Park.
Those who knew Lanie described her as the “epitome of elegance and Southern grace,” “hard working,” and someone who “always wanted what was best for Cobb and the community she served.”
Lanie Shipp Hoover served as Executive Director of the Town Center CID from its inception in 1997 until her retirement in 2014. During her tenure, the organization launched transformational projects, such as the Big Shanty Connector, Noonday Creek Trail, and the Skip Spann Bridge, in addition to countless studies and beautification projects.
Her tireless commitment to Cobb and Town Center has positioned our organization to continue for the next 25 years.
CID Executive Director Tracy Styf. Now, we have an opportunity to focus our pri orities to meet the future needs of our changing community. With our non-profit placemaking partner, we are engaging our community to create a shared vision for a more prosperous future of Town Center that includes unique spaces, public art, expanded and connected trail systems, smart technologies and electric vehicle infrastructure, and forward-thinking trans portation and roadway improvements.”
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needs of the community, helping deliver transformational projects that have made significant transportation, safety, and traf fic improvements. These advancements help more parents and students get home quicker, reduce travel time for the region’s workforce, and increase access to parks andAstrails.community infrastructure and placemaking leaders, the Town Center CID has completed numerous large-scale road projects, produced detailed cor ridor studies to inform smarter develop ment, and beautified district landscaping.
Remembering a Change Maker: Lanie Shipp Hoover
“The foundation, created by Lanie, our founding board members, and businesses that have shaped Town Center allows us to focus our passion for building community and lead with a shared vision for its next chapter,” said Kelly Keappler, CID Board Chair. The Town Center CID will honor Lanie Shipp Hoover at a 25th anniversary celebration and will announce an exciting new initiative in her memory.
I n Your Community
“The slots in this area are based on space availability,” Atkins says. “But if you don’t follow the elevated rules in the com pliance dorm, you will be removed and sent back to general population. If the
C
Sheriff Owens Helps Inmates Hit ‘Restart’
Cobb County’s reentry initiative offers education, training, and preparation for employment to qualifying inmates.
By Jennifer Morrell Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by the Cobb Sheriff’s Foundation, Inc.
28 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
obb County’s Sheriff, Craig Owens, and his command staff are changing the way qualifying inmates think about life after jail. Rather than releasing these inmates back into society both unprepared and unskilled, Sheriff Owens has chosen to focus on educating and training those who want to better themselves and to live a more productive life.
“When Sheriff Owens took office in January of 2021, he wanted individuals to be better off than they were prior to incar ceration,” says Col. Temetris Atkins, a law enforcement professional who joined the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office in 1990. He first served two years as a Deputy Sheriff in Fulton County. “The Cobb County Adult Detention Center was high on popula tion, with over 2,000 inmates, but low on programming. Programming was virtually non-existent, so we developed program ing. Our programs center around the notion that you can’t incarcerate your problems away.”
Atkins says the approach was to develop a behavioral-based system that rewards compliance and good behavior. From this philosophy, “compliance dorms” were cre ated. The compliance dorms are desig nated dorms within the facility that reward good behavior with heighted privileges and programs. After 30 days of incarceration with no disciplinary infractions and gen eral compliance with the facility rules, an inmate is eligible to be selected to be placed in one of the 13 dorms.
“We can’t arrest our way out of the crisis of criminal activity. We also don’t want to turn people out being less prepared than when they came in. We want to prepare them to be integrated back into the world.”
The goal is to have a minimum of 60 percent of the inmate population housed in compliance dorms. The heightened privi leges and benefits of being housed in the compliance dorms are extensive. Though many of the benefits may seem basic and simplistic to the average person who is not incarcerated, inmates find great value in these little, seemingly trivial opportunities.
He adds that when an inmate enters the frame of mind to qualify for the compli ance dorm, educational opportunities and employment become more possible when he or she is released.
Compliance dorm inmates may individ ually purchase movies, music and video games through mobile kiosk systems. Mes saging also is available as a text form of com munication, also individually purchased and accessed through mobile kiosk systems.
Various groups have come into the facility to administer Parenting Classes. Recogniz ing inmates’ growth through this type of training, Sheriff Owens decided to create a more permanent program, which began in mid-August. The Parenting Classes are now taught by a newly hired part-time counselor. “Builders Trade Academy Classes” are taught by the Georgia Building Trades Academy Inc. The goal is to increase the number of qualified candidates for appren ticeship, improve the diversity of the con struction workforce, and to increase reten tion rates among apprentices. This is accom plished through the provision of a deeper understanding of the industry and the role of craft unions in construction.
Cobb Works is an organization that focuses on customers of all ages, expe rience levels, and backgrounds who can benefit from additional training to increase earning potential. The group facilitates the “RESTART Program” in the compliance dorms, which is an education and employ ment program for inmates. Additionally, to assist inmates with voting rights infor mation, the Cobb County Charter of the NAACP provides voter registration applica tions and instructions to inmates. Through the “Facilities Upkeep Pro gram,” select individuals from the compli ance dorms may volunteer to be a part of a group that assists the maintenance team and custodial engineer teams with small projects throughout the facility. Sheriff Owens and his command staff believe many inmates enjoy participating in productive tasks and appreciate the opportunity to learn valuable skills. An inmate-led art class also is available in the compliance dorms and is highly popular. “We can’t arrest our way out of the crisis of criminal activity,” Atkins says. “We also don’t want to turn people out being less prepared than when they came in. We want to prepare them to be integrated back into theThoughworld.” mindful of security and keeping the primary mission at hand, Sheriff Owens and his command staff are bettering the futures of inmates, teaching them that it’s never too late to start again and to build a promising future.
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—Col. Temetris Atkins, Cobb County Sheriff’s Office Honor Dorm artwork shows art from inmates.
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waiting list to be placed in a compliance dorm becomes extensive, we open a new compliance dorm.”
Examples of such privileges and ben efits include open-source television, which is valuable as no other areas in the facility have televisions; a more robust selection of various board and card games; and ice buckets issued twice per day.
Another added benefit is an even safer environment. “We have had zero inmateon-inmate or inmate-on-staff physical alterations in a compliance dorm since opening the dorms about one year ago,” Atkins says. “Once an inmate has shown a willingness to be compliant and expressed a desire to be more productive, it is our opinion that he or she has demonstrated a mindset that suggests he or she could be successful in programming that benefits him or her personally.”
The programs provided to compliance dorm inmates vary and are aligned with the inmates to best assist them. The “Anger Management Class,” which is taught by an in-house counselor but also recognized by the Cobb County Superior Court judges, has graduated more than 300 inmates in the last eight months. Another highly beneficial class, “How to Successfully Com plete Probation,” is taught by an in-house counselor with prior experience as a Cobb County Probation Officer. This program has graduated more than 200 inmates in the last six “Homelessmonths.Help”is a program that assists and provides resources to inmates who have declared they are homeless. Services are offered through a partnership with The Extension, an organization that has helped hundreds of homeless men and women in Cobb County take control of their lives fol lowing drug and alcohol addiction. The par ticipants gain the skills they need to recover and lead healthy, productive lives.
CookNadja|FocusinVirtuallyofcourtesyPhotos
MBA members and guests enjoying a day on the course. From left to right: Arthur Rush, Brandon Wilson, Steffan Nicholson, Alexandra Carpanzano, and Doug Sawyer.Dave Young
2nd Annual MBA Golf Tournament Tees Off In October
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A
rts & Recreation
T he Marietta Business Association (MBA) is hosting the 2nd Annual MBA Golf Tournament on Oct. 21, 2022, sponsored by Associated Credit Union. This is an excel lent opportunity to promote business and community engagement in Marietta and the surrounding area, the MBA says. There will be great food from local ven dors, beverages sponsored by Red Hare Brewing Co., and many businesses engag ing with golfers throughout the tourna ment. This golf tournament is meant to be a fun and relaxing event with exciting twists and turns throughout the day. The MBA gives back to our community through collaborative efforts on projects in education and our local community in the City of Marietta, Cobb County, and the State of Georgia. The organization’s purpose is to promote the civic, social,
Schedule City
MBA Annual Golf Tournament Friday, Oct. 21, 2022 Hosted by the City Club Marietta Club
• Marietta
Gold Sponsor ($1,000) — Includes one foursome in the tournament, VIP on-course promotion at the hole of your choice, Sponsor of Awards/Silent Auction or Meal.
Marietta Ft. Lauderdale Scramble 7:30 a.m. Registration & driving range opens. Silent auction & breakfast served. 9:00 a.m. Shotgun start 1:00 p.m. Lunch & awards Cost $125 per player/$450 per foursome Registration includes: • Breakfast • Lunch • Greens fees • Cart • Goodie bag • Lots of fun! SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 31
This tournament benefits the MBA’s various programs. Throughout the past year, the MBA has been involved with numerous organizations in the Marietta area to show support and build com munity relations. The organization has donated to and volunteered with the fol lowing groups: City Schools Community and Schools in County)
•
Marietta/Cobb
(Georgia
**All sponsorships include promotional materials in player goodie bags.
Without the support of the members of the MBA, its involvement in these pro grams would have been difficult, so the organization offers a big “thank you” to everyone who donated and volunteered.
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Presenting Sponsor ($2,500) — Includes Presenting Sponsor rights, one foursome in the tournament, VIP on-course promotion at the hole of your choice, logo on all signage.
Putting Contest Sponsor ($1,000)
T-Box Sponsor ($500) — Sponsor set-up on T-box with 10 x 10 tent, table and chairs. Long Drive/ Closest to the Pin Sponsor ($500) — Includes VIP promotion on select holes and one player in the tournament.
— Includes VIP promotion on putting green, corporate signage and foursome in the tournament.
The funds raised from this golf tourna ment will continue to fund the MBA and these programs as it continues its Year of Growth.Thetournament will be held at the Marietta City Club with registration start ing at 7:30 a.m. on October 21. The MBA is looking for both golfers to play and sponsors who would like to promote their business. Whether you are the “ringer” for your team or the business leader to cheer them on, we look forward to seeing you there. Below are the details for the event so book your spot now while they still have room.
Cart Sponsor (2) ($500) — Sign on beverage cart during tournament and at drink station at awards.
• Glover Park Concert Series • 911 GROW Restoration Garden • SPLASH at White Water • Marietta Police/Fire/EMS
commercial, economic welfare, and busi ness goals of members. Join them in their goal to build relationships, grow local busi nesses, and to add value to the economic welfare of our businesses and community.
AVAILABLEOPPORTUNITIESSPONSORSHIP
Tee/Hole Sponsor ($100) — Includes corporate signage on one hole or tee box.
n F inal Focus Cobb In Focus magazine is now a partner with Surfing in Cobb County... We Make It Easy! No matter where you are, you can now access up-to-date information about what’s going on around the county. With local news, events calendars and the latest issue of Cobb In Focus, you can be instantly connected to your community. For advertising opportunities in Cobb In Focus magazine and these Cobb County websites, contact Jamie Ryan at 770-650-1102, ext. 142 or jamie@cobbinfocus.com. EmptyNesting
By Cory Sekine-Pettite
32 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
T his summer, most of my friends with children became so-called empty nesters. While not considered an actual clini cal condition, empty nest syndrome is a feeling of grief and loneliness parents may feel when their children move out to live on their own or to attend a univer sity. Since I do not have children, I can not empathize with their predicament, but I can sympathize. These parents are grieving. Their primary role as adults — perhaps their entire identity — has been as a caregiver to their progeny. They are asking themselves “Who am I now, and what do I do with the rest of my life.?”
For those who have sought advice or words of encouragement, my first sug gestion has been to take pride in guiding their children into adulthood. The hard part is over, I say. Just be there for them now as they learn to live on their own (or with their college roommates) and discover who they are. Their kids’ jour neys are just beginning, but my friends still have wisdom to share. If their child knows they can reach out for help or advice (but without judgement) then theyOfwill.course, my empty-nester friends now are embarking on a new journey of their own. So, I’ve begun reading about what they’re going through and I’ve looked for ways in which their new lives can be rewarding and fulfilling rather than anxious or restless. Fortu nately, there’s a great deal of information out there. I suggest leaning into the more active ways of adjusting such as learning new skills or hobbies (cooking/baking, crafts, new languages, etc.). Additionally, I tell them they can travel more — and not just during the summer. They also can join a club or association that caters to their passion or interests. They can vol unteer. And maybe they can sleep more! I encourage all empty nesters to enjoy this time in their lives when they are not responsible to or for anyone else, because the next chapter in their lives bring with it new challenges and obliga tions, i.e., grandchildren.
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