Alpharetta, GA December 2025

Elevating

When you step into your kitchen, what do you aspire to do? Master a new cooking technique? Serve food even your pickiest family member will eat with enthusiasm?

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are meticulously crafted to achieve a higher standard of performance, dependability, and style—so you can raise the bar on every meal you make.

Your future kitchen starts with Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, featured at

Happy holidays, friends

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking or cherished family traditions.

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference. May your holidays be filled with love, peace and the joy of giving.

SUE G. COLLINS,

EDITOR

@ALPHARETTACITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Aleksandar Kapetanovic

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Katie Steedly Curling

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jolie Loren

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Rocco's Bright Future

Meet Alpharetta's young and rising country songwriter and musician.

'Tis The Season

The Kitchen, The Hub

Two

Hanukkah celebration.

Writer Katie Steedly Curling pauses to reflect.

WHERE

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Modern Luxur y Meets Timeless Design

In-Home Caregiving

Agate Home Care provides compassionate in-home caregiving services to care for your loved ones with dignity and comfort. They are proud to be part of this South Asian community event, raising awareness about Medicaid CCSP & SOURCE waiver programs. The team can help with new applications and accepts new clients. In addition to Medicaid, Agate also serves private pay clients—offering skilled and nonskilled care with a heartfelt commitment to giving back to our community.  AgateHomeCare.com

Date Night Glam Spot

Local Physician Pens Thoughtful Book

Dr. James E. Harper has released his compelling new book, "The Decimation of U.S. Healthcare," now available on Amazon and through IngramSpark. The book offers a rare and powerful insider's perspective on the systemic decline of the American healthcare system, drawing from Dr. Harper's decades of firsthand experience, nearly 30 years as a full-time volunteer doctor in New York. Dr. Harper worked without pay, billing or insurance interference, solely focused on patient care.  HarperCareClinic.com

Rocco’s Bright Future

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At just 15 years old, emerging singer-songwriter and skillful guitarist Rocco Gorelik has turned heads with his traditional country sound and first-rate musicianship. The Alpharetta native began to steadily grow a fan base when his self-recorded guitar videos started piquing the interest of people around the world. Rocco’s self-taught talent as a guitarist later scored him a sponsorship from Gibson.

by

Photo by Eric Ahlgrim

Performing since the age of 11, the up-and-comer has already shared the stage with artists such as Lainey Wilson, Marcus King and Trey Hensley, and has made history as the youngest artist to ever play Whiskey Jam, a Nashville-based live music series that has hosted over 1,000 shows. Rocco is homeschooled, which works out great because it provides him with a flexible schedule to easily balance his studies and his growing music career.

Prioritizing high-energy performances, Rocco continues to play more than 150 live shows a year and was invited to perform at this year’s Gibson Garage Fest and Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour.

On the heels of his first three releases, the emerging artist is working on a debut EP, set to drop later this month.

Rocco lives in Alpharetta with his parents, Laura and Maks, little brother Vince and rescue pups, Pancake and Porkchop.

Rocco is fortunate to have a close circle of friends who consistently support his artistry, along with various venues across the Greater Atlanta area that do the same - most notably CHIRINGA in downtown Alpharetta. When Rocco was just 11, then-manager Lauren LeNoir happened to hear him playing on the street nearby and immediately hired him to perform weekly at the restaurant. Now, at 15, Rocco still holds that weekly spot and likes to grab dinner there with family. He does much of his writing at home, finding peace and inspiration on his back deck, which overlooks the woods.

“Prioritizing high-energy performances, Rocco continues to play more than 150 live shows a year and was invited to perform at this year’s Gibson Garage Fest and Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour.”

He often travels to Nashville for gigs, meetings and most recently, to write with other musicians. He finds a lot of inspiration in Music City as well. Rocco’s music has recently been promoted by CMA, ACM, Holler and Country Central, amongst others.

Listen on Spotify & Apple Music Instagram @roccogorelik

‘Tis The Season

Celebrating 35 Years of Caring for Our Seniors

When Marian Andeweg-Kemp signed up to deliver Meals on Wheels one morning, she thought it would be a quick, six-stop route. But one visit changed her day — and reminded her why she volunteers.

Sam is 93 years old and nearly blind, and at his house, Marian was greeted with a wideopen door and an invitation to come in. What was supposed to take minutes turned into an hour of stories, laughter and connection. For Sam, Marian was the first person he had talked to since the meal delivery the previous day. For Marian, it was a powerful reminder: Meals on Wheels isn’t just about food — it’s about human connection, compassion and making sure seniors feel safe and cared for.

Stories like Marian’s happen every day at Senior Services North Fulton, where the mission is to help older adults live with dignity, independence and joy. Thanks to the generosity of donors, corporate sponsors and over 500 volunteers, the nonprofit offers vital programs that keep seniors safe, healthy and connected – all at no cost to the seniors served.

“Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do,” says Cathy Pope, Executive Director of Senior Services North Fulton. “They deliver not only meals but compassion, friendship and a connection that many seniors might not have otherwise.”

ARTICLE BY HEATHER TERRY

The Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious meals to homebound seniors, while Meals on Wheels for Pets ensures older adults can feed their beloved pets, keeping these vital bonds intact.

Transitional housing program (PaTH) helps prevent senior homelessness with short-term assistance for rent and utilities. And the TOPS Transportation program provides rides to medical appointments, supporting seniors’ health and independence.

Senior Services North Fulton also operates seven senior centers that serve as community hubs where older adults come together to learn, exercise, create and connect. From art classes and fitness programs to shared meals and lively social activities, these centers are places where seniors thrive. Located in Alpharetta/Crabapple, Milton, Roswell, Sandy Springs and across the City of Atlanta, these centers bring joy, friendship and belonging to hundreds of older adults each year.

“Every program we offer is designed to help seniors live safely, stay connected and maintain their independence,” Pope adds. “None of it would be possible without the support of our community — from volunteers to donors to corporate partners. They help us make a difference every day.”

In 2026, Senior Services North Fulton will celebrate their 35th anniversary with the theme Shine the Light – Celebrating 35 Years of Service to Our Seniors. All year long, endeavors will honor the past 35 years, look ahead to the next 35 and spotlight the seniors, volunteers and supporters who make the

work possible. Highlights include the Alpharetta Rotary Polar Bear Plunge on February 7, the “Shine the Light” Gala on June 5 and Giving Tuesday on December 1.

North Fulton residents, local companies, and community leaders are invited to shine the light. Your support — through sponsorships, donations, or volunteering — directly impacts the lives of seniors in North Fulton.

To join the celebration or learn how to get involved, contact Heather Terry at hterry@ssnorthfulton.org

SSNorthfulton.org

H O ME IS W H ERE T H E

HEARTH IS

HAVE A VERY HAPPY HANUKKAH

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL

The best holiday conversations usually happen in the kitchen. Focusing on measuring, peeling, chopping and basting, we can chit chat or go for a deep dive with fellow cooks. Yes, a good kitchen will have thoughtfully spaced appliances, a ton of storage and plenty of work surfaces, but more importantly, a well-designed kitchen will invite conversations, with well-lit places for all the peelers.

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This pretty kitchen by The Designery Atlanta was created by owner and designer Allie Hauser to showcase sleek countertops, trendy tile and custom storage solutions that the company is known for. Allie and her team of creatives manage kitchen, bath and closet remodel products and new builds.

“My inspiration for this design was to show clients that warm neutrals can be just as beautiful and timeless as white kitchens. By introducing subtle warmth through neutral tones and the natural texture of quartersawn white oak, the space achieves a fresh, elevated look that feels both inviting and sophisticated.” says Allie.

This month, our design partner, Andria Parker of Haven Lane decorated one of the bright kitchens in The Designery Atlanta’s expansive showroom.

Andria rolls out a special Hanukkah gathering with splashes of festive blue and a menorah as a reverent focal point for the kitchen.

Rediscover Freedom of Movement! If HIP or KNEE pain is limiting your life, it’s time to take the next step. Dr. Brandon Naylor is a nationally recognized expert in joint pain, offering a spectrum of treatments, from injections to minimally invasive and advanced arthroplasty techniques proven to reduce recovery time and maximize function.

“I was back on my feet in no time. Dr. Naylor gave me my life back!”

– Susan M., Age 67, Total Knee Replacement

Expert hip and knee care by Dr. Brandon Naylor Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Brandon Naylor Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

ARTISTS AMONG US

The Revel Arts Collective

The Revel Arts Collective bloomed in 2024 when five women—a career artist, retired English teacher, corporate leader, graphic designer and an art educator—came together with a shared vision and took action. Comprised of local artists, the Collective presented their second annual show in November at the Crabapple Market in downtown Milton.

The Collective believes visual art is a God-given, universal language spoken through the hands of creatives to receptive hearts.

The success of both shows confirmed the community’s support for original art.

Follow the artists on Instagram @revelartscollective.

ARTICLE BY KATIE STEEDLY CURLING

What Giving Taught Me

“It is the heart that does the giving; the fingers only let go.” — Nigerian proverb I want to start with a story. My understanding of giving grew from my early experiences. A family that hosted gatherings frequently. A church that taught me about tithing time, talent and treasure. A school where I learned the value of community, relationships and connection. A grandparent’s garden that fed a neighborhood. That is how, when and where I learned about giving and letting go.

I have been writing my way through Suleika Jaouad’s  The Book of Alchemy — a book of essays and writing prompts that foster creativity. The final essay in the book, “Gestures

“Thank you softens and holds. Thank you feeds and comforts. Thank you wakes up the as if and the not yet.”

from the Soul” by Behida Dolić instructs, “Create a little gesture from the soul, something free. Then write about what you created, how it made you feel, how it will live on.”

When I think about soul gestures, heart-giving and letting go — and what we receive when we give — I remember the month before my 50th birthday. That month, I wrote 50 thank-you notes to people for whom I am grateful — people I knew and admired up close (like friends and family) and people I didn’t know and admired from afar. I sent thank-you notes to artists, writers, politicians, philosophers, pastors, non-profit leaders and others. Each note shared my gratitude for their work.

What I Learned Writing 50 Thank-You Notes

Thank you builds connective tissue. It creates connective tissue between our hearts and our hands, ourselves and each other and our communities and our world. That is the strength of thank you. It gives kindness muscle. It gives shape to generosity. It makes it easier to love again and again and again.

Thank you is a vulnerable act. It is vulnerable because there can be no expectation of a response. It must not connect to entitlement—or the sense that we are owed a thank you in return. It must come from an honest, openhearted space of profound gratitude. We must freely give. Thank you must be the entire point.

Magic begins with thank you. Thank you ripples and extends. Thank you softens and holds. Thank you feeds and comforts. Thank you wakes up the as if and the not yet . Thank you creates the world we want to live in.

The Heart Does the Giving

My connection to giving returns me to my roots. As a child, I learned giving did not mean a transactional, tit-for-tat, self-serving situation. Giving did not mean counting presents, feeling entitled and keeping track. Giving did not mean there was only so much pie, so guard against excessive generosity. As

an adult, I started (and continue) studying gratitude — conducting interviews, teaching writing classes and practicing gratitude.

I learned there is a deep connection between gratitude and giving. Thank you is a building block of grateful living. It is essential to understand the difference between grateful for and grateful to. It is where we start to heal the pain of isolation, individualism and separateness.

The Fingers Only Let Go

The why behind giving is as important as what we give. It’s deeper than the adage, “It is not the gift. It is the thought that counts”. Let me explain. Gifts — the time we spend, the favorite things we find and give, the thank you notes we send — are the real-life manifestation of our connection with one another. Relationships are the core of a heart-centered why.

Why Giving Matters

I did not hear much in response to my birthday letters. That was not the point. In my 50 years, I had learned at the feet, stood on the shoulders, heard the wisdom and leaned in with my whole body. I wanted to say thank you. It’s about soul gestures, heart-giving and letting go. The letters were all of that. The letters live on. They live on in fostering the habit of paying attention. They live on in the way gratitude multiplies. They live on in the desire to create a world where giving is common like roots, breath and sunshine.

Katie is a writer, researcher, and lover of stories. She has trekked the Abel Tasman, bathed in the healing waters of Tirta Empul and kissed the Blarney Stone in search of wide-awakeness. She has written about the arts and sciences for leading organizations such as the Blue Man Group, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, NASA, Ohio University and the University of Cincinnati. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.

Cozy Holiday Staycation

A surprising find, The Forth Hotel is as moody as it is bright. Was I in the lobby of an exclusive hotel in Milan, Barcelona or another modern European city, now popular with discerning travelers? The front desk staff wear suits and are formal but warm and I feel seen.

Deep velvet and leather sofas flank a wood fire blazing in the lobby, and the terrace suite has its own outdoor wood-burning fireplace, rarities in Atlanta hotels.

With a killer location, just steps from the BeltLine in Old Fourth Ward, The Forth hotel’s gorgeous rooms, sprawling fitness club, Insta-worthy outdoor pool deck and rooftop lounge and variety of restaurants will win you over during your next in town staycation.

Food first. Get yourself a reservation at Il Premio for an Italian steakhouse dinner, Moonlight for a big city nightcap and Elektra

for pool-side brunch. The staff is exceptional at Elektra, and the decor is mellow Miami. No need to leave the property, except to walk, run, scooter or bike the BeltLine to drink in Atlanta’s diversity and energy.

Hotel guests enjoy access to The Forth Fitness Club, a membership-only gym. During my stay, I checked out the key for the cold plunge, a private room where I could dip into the deep tub of water where the thermometer struggled to reach 50. A timer, bluetooth speaker, dim lighting and privacy door hanger should have given me confidence. They did not, for more than 60 long seconds.

The Forth Hotel will be your in town Atlanta womb. From the Sferra robes in the rooms to the warm smiles and service from the wait staff at Elektra, your day will be full of promise.

ForthAtlanta.com

Answers to their medical woes.

It’s time again to see Uncle John or maybe it’s your cousin Sophia who has the chronic pain or health issue that traditional medical doctors can’t seem to diagnose. Give the gift of health this year and get them back to themselves again. Initial exams $95 - $195. Holistic Health Center, P.C.  HolisticHealthGA.com

Get outdoorsy, but not too outdoorsy

Stay at the brand new collection of mountainside bungalows at The Hemlocks near Bryson City, NC. The Hemlocks by NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center), offers stunning vacation rentals just a short walk from the Nantahala River, Lake Fontana, Flint Ridge and the Appalachian Trail. Fast wi-fi, community firepit, ADA units, dogs welcome.  NOC.com/accommodations/hemlocks

The perfect pine candle.

The Aquiesse Monterey Pine candle sets a sophisticated, nature-inspired ambiance. Cheers to a cozy, well-crafted evening. Haven Lane Design Studio + Boutique  HavenLaneDesign.com

Bags are my jam

This Boho Bass Roll Tote Dry Bag by FisheWear can be stuffed full of gear or snacks, then rolled closed to keep stuff dry. FisheWear was created to make bold, functional, art-inspired fishing gear for women who refuse to blend in.  FisheWear.com

For the armchair traveler or actual traveler.

America’s National Parks and Public Lands  by Jacob W. Frank. Over the last ten years, photographer Jacob W. Frank has boated, climbed, caved, hiked, biked, skied, dog mushed, backpacked, snowmobiled, flown over and driven through some of the most scenic public lands the U.S. has to offer. Frank’s photographs serve as both a celebration of the natural world and a call to action, inspiring us to become stewards of the land and champions for its preservation. At your local book seller.

Go Grazey, from savory to sweet

These large boards are beautifully curated and designed to suit every occasion and lifestyle. Whether you’re indulging in a rich dessert platter, keeping it clean with our fresh vegetable board or staying on track with our protein-packed Keto option, each board is thoughtfully prepared with premium ingredients and artistic presentation — perfect for sharing, celebrating or simply grazing in style. $175 for any Large Board (Large serves up to 20 Grazers).  Graze Craze Johns Creek GrazeCraze.com/Johns-Creek-GA

Elegance that elevates

From concept to completion, we’re your full-service partner for transforming your space. Whether you’re dreaming of a stunning kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, or fully custom closets, we’ve got you covered. With 13 cabinet lines, 25+ custom closet colors, and an extensive selection of countertops, tile, and flooring, we offer options to suit every budget and every style. Let us help bring your vision to life - and turn your house into your dream home.

The Designery Atlanta 404.999.4585 | TheDesignery.com 6080 Sandy Springs Circle NE | Atlanta, GA 30328

DECEMBER 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 5TH

Lights on the Loop 2025

Alpha Loop -2500 Northwinds Pkwy | 5:30 PM

Alpharetta’s premier holiday experience,  Lights on the Loop is a monthlong celebration featuring a spectacular light display along a one-mile stretch of the Alpha Loop trail. With themed weekends, live entertainment and a curated Winter Village, this event draws hundreds of visitors and creates unforgettable holiday memories. Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20.

DECEMBER 6TH

Family Concert: Santa’s Favorite Chamber Music

St. Aidan’s Church | 5:30 PM

We welcome Old Saint Nick himself to introduce some of his favorite classical works. He’ll also lead a sing-along of favorite holiday songs with pianists Julie Coucheron and William Ransom. Designed for young listeners but perfect for music lovers of all ages. This concert is free but requires a ticket in order to ensure adequate seating count. MusicMilton.org

DECEMBER 6TH

Alpharetta Music Match

Oliver Kidd

Alpharetta Arts Center | 5:00 PM

This classically trained, full-time performing artist draws inspiration from iconic vocalists and niche indie creatives worldwide, and his upcoming collection (Ollie's Poster Show) has been a live hit, captivating audiences from street shows to venues across the country.

The smarter way to strength train.

When it comes to fitness, most people waste time on exercise that doesn’t deliver. Discover Strength flips the script with a smarter approach: 30-minute strength training sessions, just twice per week, led by expert exercise physiologists.

Every workout is rooted in science and designed to maximize results in minimal time. No fads, no gimmicks— just efficient, evidence-based training that builds strength, boosts metabolism, protects against injury, and improves overall health.

For busy professionals, parents, and anyone who values both their health and their time, Discover Strength is the smartest way to train. You’ll look better, feel stronger, and live healthier— all without spending hours in the gym.

www.discoverstrength.com/alpharetta | 678-918-4818

Village at Park Bridge | 4190 Old Milton Parkway suite 2G Alpharetta, GA 30005

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DECEMBER 6TH

Alpharetta

Christmas Market

Innovation Academy – 125 Milton Ave.  | 9:00 AM

Visitors will enjoy shopping for holiday gifts and products for everyone on your list. Enjoy a variety of crafts, food, decor, jewelry and more!

DECEMBER 13TH

Snow Day at ACC

Alpharetta City Center - 2001 Commerce St. | 12:00 PM

Experience a winter wonderland on the Town Green with snow flurries and family-friendly activities, savor holiday-themed treats and create lasting memories at the holiday photo booth. Explore the charming Alpharetta City Center boutiques. Best of all, the event is entirely free, so grab your mittens and embrace the winter fun while supplies last!  CityCenterAlpharetta.com

DECEMBER 21ST

Chanukah

Menorah Lighting

Town Green – 2 Park Place | 5:30 PM

Join Chabad and the City of Alpharetta for the annual lighting of the Alpharetta Menorah on the Town Green. Want

Feel Better. Stay Better. All in One Place.

Life doesn’t follow a schedule. That’s why AllCare is here - your neighborhood clinic in Buckhead, Peachtree Plaza, and beyond--o ering both primary care and immediate care, all under one roof. Whether it’s a routine checkup, a nagging cough, or a last-minute injury, our trusted team of providers is ready to help.

And once you walk in for an urgent need, you’ll stick around for long-term care. That’s the AllCare di erence.

We’re open 7 days a week with extended hours to fit your life. No confusing hando s. No starting over with someone new. Just one care team that knows you and cares for it all.

Why Choose AllCare?

• Primary care and immediate care in one convenient location

• Open 7 days a week: 8 am to 8 pm weekdays, 9 am to 2 pm weekends

• In-person and virtual visits

AllCare Buckhead

4605 Roswell Road

Atlanta, GA 30342

Phone: (678) 904-5611

Ramin Sadeghi, DO

Evelyn Larson, NP

• Same-day appointments and walk-ins welcome

• A Piedmont Clinic Member

• Most major insurance accepted plus a ordable self-pay options

AllCare Peachtree Plaza

2900 Peachtree Rd, Suite 301

Atlanta, GA, 30305

Phone: (470) 730-4747

Jasmine Watson, PA