Johns Creek, GA January 2026 by City Lifestyle

Have a Happy, Healthy New Year H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

BABIES IN TH E N EW YE AR: M OTH ER-DAU GHTER DOU L A S FACIN G JAW PAI N H E AD O N B E AU T Y

TH E YE AR O F TH E SKI N JA N UA RY 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy new year, friends! A reset for the body, mind and spirit. This issue is a breath of fresh air — filled with healing, clarity and motivation to step into the year feeling whole. James Harper, M.D., F.A.C.P. has a practice here in Johns Creek (The Optimal Health Care Clinic) and shares his newly published book on the medical system in our story on page 12. When Rabsaris Arreaza wrote to us about her business, we knew it would be perfect for this WELLNESS issue. She is the founder of Doula Vida Atlanta, a mother–daughter doula team offering birth, postpartum, and childbirth education services to families across the Johns Creek area. Our writer Sean O'Keefe captures their passion in the story on page 20. Enjoy this issue, find your peace and take care of your bod!

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com S E N I O R AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com AD M I N I ST R AT I VE D I R E C TO R

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sean O'Keefe, Lora Sommer

All my best,

SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @ J O H N S C R E E KC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Johns Creek City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johns Creek area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johns Creek City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

26 12

Featured

12 16 26

On the Cover

The Business of Healthcare Book penned by Johns Creek doctor.

Music's Strong Foundation

The Music Studio Atlanta comes to Johns Creek.

The Year of the Skin

Skincare, preventative and beyond

It’s Baby New Year! Doula Vida Atlanta, based in Alpharetta, is a motherand-daughter doula team offering a unique, multi-generational approach to supporting families throughout the pregnancy journey. Happy New Year! DoulaVidaAtlanta.com

Departments 4

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Inspired By BEAUTY

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Skin Care BEAUTY

Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

Spa Day HEALTH + WELLNESS

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Events

A Season of Change, a Statement of Style Shades | Blinds | Drapery | Shutters

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1: Altum Psychiatry and Dr. Ata celebrated its grand opening in Johns Creek. 2: The grand opening of Composure Hair Studio was celebrated by the owner and chamber members. 3: Greg Mabry of Bentley Atlanta with Dr. Miles Gravier, Gravier Center's Evening of Beauty. 4: Northside Hospital celebrates a new location in Johns Creek. 5: Johns Creek Chamber's Women's Networking Connection hosted byAutrey Mill 6: Graze Craze Johns Creek owner works her magic on a charcuterie board. 7: The new Graze Craze opens its doors in Johns Creek, serving up charcuterie and more.

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Your Skin. Your Story.

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Schools News

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Assisted Living

Independent Living

Memory Care

Jane’s New Year’s Resolution Was To Get Out And Meet More People. Sarah Moved To Village Park.

At Village Park, Sarah joins dozens of our weekly social hours, local outings, and fitness clubs, so meeting new friends is easier than ever. Plus, with community-wide events and parties, she always has a reason to host old friends in her new home. VillageParkSeniorLiving.com | (678) 750-4630 | 12300 Morris Rd

THE BUSINESS OF HEALTHCARE Book penned by Johns Creek doctor.

ARTICLE BY JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKS KAPETANOVIC

I NSP IR E D BY | BEAUTY

Dr. James E. Harper, a board-certified Internal Medicine physician in Johns Creek, announces the release of 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 f irsthand experience. Unlike most critiques of the industry, “The Decimation of U.S. Healthcare” is written by a physician who spent 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. “For decades, I was shielded from the corporate mechanisms that now dominate our healthcare system,” says Dr. Harper. “But after leaving my volunteer position and returning to the private sector, I was shocked at how much had changed—and not for the better.” One month after leaving New York, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. What Dr. Harper witnessed during that time: hospitals on the verge of collapse without enough ventilators for people who needed them to survive, a shocking shortage of protective gear and the tragic loss of frontline colleagues, inspired a thorough investigation by the physician. Forced to practice telemedicine during the height of the crisis and later opening a private practice in Johns Creek, he experienced the full weight of modern healthcare bureaucracy for the first time. “Between handling billing, coding and dealing with insurance companies, I was confronted with the reality of a system that had become dominated by thirdparty health insurers and corporate giants whose sole objective is to amass huge profits and not to provide good patient care,” he explains. The book chronicles how corporate interests have gradually taken control of government-funded programs like Medicare, Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. While premiums and drug prices have soared, payments to physicians have declined, contributing

to a looming physician shortage and a nationwide healthcare crisis. Dr. Harper also addresses a quiet but significant shift: the increasing replacement of physicians with non-physician practitioners. “Patients often don’t realize they’re being seen by someone with dramatically less training,” says Dr. Harper. “This is affecting the quality of care in ways we’re only beginning to measure.” Praise for the book has been strong. A neurosurgeon described it as “extremely well-written and researched,” adding that “it was impossible not to become emotional while reading it.” A computer specialist working in AI called it “a great read and very eye-opening.” As the U.S. population continues to age and chronic diseases rise, Dr. Harper warns of a “perfect storm” on the horizon. He hopes this book will raise awareness among policymakers, healthcare professionals and the general public. HarperCareClinic.com

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MU S IC'S S T R ONG F OUNDAT ION THE MUSIC STUDIO ATLANTA COMES TO JOHNS CREEK

ARTICLE BY LORA SOMMER

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

The Music Studio Atlanta, one of Georgia’s largest privately owned music schools, is expanding with the opening of a third location conveniently located to serve families in both Johns Creek and Alpharetta neighborhoods. For families like the Hukkeris of Cumming, the new location couldn’t come at a better time. Nine-year-old Akshara Hukkeri had been thriving at The Music Studio Atlanta’s Vinings location, studying both piano and vocals.

But after the family’s move to Cumming, the long drive became too much, and they reluctantly withdrew from lessons. Today, they are first on the studio’s ever-growing waitlist for the Johns Creek/ Alpharetta location and eager to return. “We were so pleased to see Akshara performing in the last music recital in June,” says Akshara’s father, Abhijit. “She played the piano and sang so beautifully. We know this is the right studio for our family. We chose The Music Studio Atlanta because of all of the things that make it different—its open mics and the grand scale of recitals, which really helped to showcase Akshara’s talent. Having to learn the music is one thing, but having that stage and performing in front of a lot of audiences is something else. It helped grow her confidence more than I can explain.” “We would have continued to make the drive, but we were so thrilled to learn that the Johns Creek studio location was opening this fall,” Abhijit continues. “We would love to have her carry on with both vocals and piano. Our goal is that music will continue to help with her concentration towards everything.” “Nothing makes me happier than hearing parents say we are the ‘go-to’ for music lessons,” says Cecilia Rowe, founder and CEO of The Music Studio Atlanta. “Our incredible staff and teachers work so hard to give all our students the best experience possible with their music lessons. I am proud to say that

last year we won five community awards, and this year we’ve already been honored with three more.” Cecilia’s own musical roots run deep. After moving to Atlanta in 1989, she and her family started an in-home music lessons business, Courtnay & Rowe In-Home Music Academy, and spent 20 years teaching piano, voice and guitar. She later became the sole owner, and she merged with the studio locations of The Music Studio Atlanta to create its current multi-location model. The new North Fulton studio will open this fall, welcoming families from Johns Creek, Alpharetta and surrounding neighborhoods. Looking ahead, Cecilia is eager to see students continue to grow through performance. “I can’t wait to see Akshara and the rest of our wonderful young musicians on this new stage, at our next recital,” Cecilia said with a smile. 10945 State Bridge Rd., Suite 402 TheMusicStudioAtlanta.com

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ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOULA VIDA ATLANTA

Returning to Nurture The Rising Influence of Doulas on Birth, Wellness and Family Life. For centuries, doulas have stood beside women as trusted guides through pregnancy, birth and the sacred transition into motherhood. Rooted in ancient traditions of care and community, their presence has always offered reassurance, wisdom and unwavering support, honoring birth not only as a medical event, but as a deeply human experience. Being a doula is a profound journey of support, empathy and empowerment. Doulas provide continuous physical, emotional and informational care to mothers and families before, during and after childbirth. They advocate, educate and create a calming presence, helping families navigate labor and postpartum challenges with confidence. Beyond birth, doulas nurture bonding, breastfeeding and recovery, offering guidance rooted in experience and compassion. Their work transforms the birth experience into one of dignity, strength and a shared voyage of discovery and connection. Doula Vida Atlanta, based in Alpharetta, is a mother-and-daughter doula team offering a unique, multi-generational approach to supporting families throughout the pregnancy journey. Together, Magedda and Rabsaris, provide continuous emotional, physical and informational

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

care, guiding mothers through prenatal preparation, labor and postpartum recovery. Their combined wisdom blends lived experience with professional insight, creating a nurturing environment for the family. This partnership empowers families by honoring both tradition and contemporary care, helping them navigate the journey of parenthood with confidence and connection. “I always joke that my mom, Magedda, was a doula long before either of us knew the word,” says Rabsaris, “people used to tell me I had her gift, but I didn’t take it seriously until I supported my first birth.” For Rabsaris and Magedda, this kind of care is rooted in family traditions expressed in intuitive and tender care, braided together in a way that feels deeply personal and grounded. “Our family dynamic shapes our work completely; most clients work with both of us to guide the family through childbirth.” Rabsaris’ care begins long before labor, offering grounded, compassionate and empowering prenatal support throughout pregnancy. She guides mothers and families through the physical, emotional and educational preparation for birth, helping them understand their choices, shape thoughtful birth plans

Rabsaris and Magedda, the mother and daughter team behind Doula Vida Atlanta.

“ We meet people where they are spiritually, culturally, emotionally and med ically,” says Rabsaris, “ever y family brings their own truth.”

and approach labor with confidence and clarity. Through steady reassurance, insightful education and heartfelt presence, Rabsaris nurtures trust, eases anxiety and helps expectant parents feel supported, informed and truly ready for the sacred passage into parenthood. Magedda’s postpartum magic truly begins after the baby arrives, as she provides deeply nurturing physical, emotional

and practical support to families during the precious weeks and months following birth. Her care centers on restoring the mother; supporting healing, bonding and a confident transition into parenthood. Magedda offers gentle guidance in newborn care, including feeding support, soothing techniques, sleep rhythms and understanding infant cues; encouraging rest, nourishment and emotional well-being to ensure both mother and baby thrive. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

In today’s world, doulas empower women and families to approach childbirth holistically, honoring mind, body and spirit, all while fostering confidence, connection and informed choice throughout pregnancy, birth and the transition into family life. “We embrace all of our families, constantly bringing trust and community in a way that changes not just their experience of parenthood, but ripples out into the way that they move through life.” DoulaVidaAtlanta.com

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

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LET Your SKIN Tell Your STORY Skincare, preventative and beyond ARTICLE BY JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL

Facing changes in your aging skin should be embraced, honored and yes, supported by medical professionals. And, if there are special considerations, you’ll want the best. One of the top reasons patients turn to Cleaver Dermatology & Aesthetics is their dedication to early and accurate skin cancer detection. They are proud to be among the first practices in North Georgia to offer Skimap Total Body Photography, a powerful tool that maps and monitors moles and lesions over time. This advanced technology enhances early detection, making it especially valuable for patients with a history of skin cancer, numerous moles or higher-risk skin types. When paired with Mohs micrographic surgery, the gold standard treatment for many skin cancers, patients receive the highest level of precision and care from diagnosis through treatment. The team at Cleaver Dermatology & Aesthetics combines advanced medical expertise, compassionate care and stateof-the-art technology for an unmatched experience. With nine convenient locations, the practice makes it easy for patients to access high-quality dermatology services close to home. Led by board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, Dr. Nathan Cleaver, the team specializes in comprehensive skin care, from general dermatology and acne treatment to skin cancer detection, Mohs surgery and cosmetic dermatology. Beyond medical dermatology, the practice also offers a full range of aesthetic services, including laser treatments, injectables, chemical peels and medical-grade skincare. Whether you need a yearly skin exam, treatment for a chronic condition or a trusted specialist for Mohs surgery, Cleaver Dermatology & Aesthetics is committed to delivering safe, effective and personalized care. CleaverDermatologyAndAesthetics.com

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Fa c i n g Jaw Pa i n He a d O n INSIGHT ON RELIEF, FROM A DENTIST

ARTICLE BY DR. JOSHUA KIM

Dr. Joshua Kim

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

Have you ever felt that nagging, dull ache lingering around your molars only to discover there’s nothing actually wrong with your teeth? Many people walk into the dentist’s office expecting a cavity or cracked filling, and instead walk out with a diagnosis they never saw coming: a jaw joint issue. Suddenly you’re told to take some medication, stick to soft foods, and ice the area for a few days. Not exactly the satisfying answer you hoped for. What most people don’t realize is that this kind of discomfort often has nothing to do with teeth at all. Instead, it’s your chewing muscles crying out for help. When they’re overworked, they can develop tight, chronic knots that radiate pain into the jaw, face, and even the head and neck. I’ve seen countless patients come in convinced they had a dental problem only to discover their muscles were the true culprits. As a dentist, my early training taught me to treat these issues with muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, and a set of massage and jaw-stretching exercises. I’d explain that while these steps could ease the pain, they rarely offered complete relief. And in the most severe cases, I’d refer patients to surgeons. That was the standard approach I learned more than a decade ago. But I’ve dealt with this issue personally too and over the years, my own discomfort only grew worse. Determined to f ind better solutions for both my patients and myself, I began researching alternatives. That’s when I came across something surprising: Botox. Botox, short for botulinum toxin, may be famous for smoothing wrinkles, but it also works by relaxing muscles. When injected into overworked chewing muscles, Botox prevents them from contracting as forcefully, giving them a much-needed break and allowing chronic tightness to melt away.

I enrolled in courses with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and during training, I received Botox injections in my jaw, neck, and shoulder. One week later, the results were life-changing. That persistent ache in my jaw vanished. My neck and shoulder tension lifted. I felt like myself again, only better. Since then, I’ve offered the treatment to patients struggling with similar symptoms, and their reactions have been almost identical: “I forgot what it felt like to be normal and pain-free.” Many return to their follow-ups relieved, grateful, and amazed at how much their quality of life has improved. Chronic jaw pain can take away so much of your daily comfort, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. When Botox is used strategically, it can quiet overactive muscles and dramatically reduce the tension that fuels that constant ache. Again and again, patients describe the change in the same word: “relief.” The reality is that these conditions are multifactorial and can’t be solved with one intervention. Effective management requires a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s muscles, habits, and functional patterns. Botox isn’t a cure-all, but when used appropriately, it can be a valuable adjunct for reducing muscular tension and improving comfort in patients whose pain is rooted in chronic overuse of the masticatory muscles. If you’re ready for an approach that goes beyond temporary fixes and actually targets the source of the problem, Botox may be the most effective step you can take. Dentistry at Ivy Falls Dr. Joshua Kim Dr. Gene Chung 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd. Ste. 501, Johns Creek 678.992.5235 DentistryAtIvyFalls.com

That persistent ache in my jaw vanished. My neck and shoulder tension lifted. I felt like myself again, only better.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

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Atlanta’s Premier Eyelid Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center As a board-certified and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Julia Kang is highly specialized in plastic surgery of the eyelids. As a true eyelid specialist, Dr. Kang is an expert in her field regarding any type of eyelid concern, both cosmetic and medical. Dr. Kang is also an expert injector in Botox and fillers and aims for only the most natural appearing results, believing in a ‘less is more” approach.

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What’s New For You ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES

The Graivier Center, a fully accredited medspa and plastic surgery center in Alpharetta, is seeing an overwhelming number of requests for their new Contouré Neck Lift. The procedure, popularized for its discreet appearance, minimal downtime and high efficacy, uses a technique designed by the practice owners, Drs. Miles Graivier and David Hill, themselves.

S PA DAY | HEALTH + WELLN E SS

When asked if it’s the results, technique or timeliness that set the Contouré Neck Lift apart from a traditional neck lift, Dr. Graivier answered a resounding “yes to all.” “It’s a unique neck lift that’s minimally invasive, can be done using local anesthesia and light oral sedation, and is easily tolerable,” says Dr. Graivier. “It offers a new level of improvement for patients, often in their 30s or 40s, experiencing early signs of aging in the neck, like fullness and laxity, who don’t want the incisions, excessive downtime or discomfort associated with traditional neck lifts.” The Contouré Neck Lift only requires three puncture incisions, so it does not require sutures to heal. The procedure begins with laser-assisted liposuction, before sutures are threaded through each of the punctures underneath the neck, creating a suture suspension that, when pulled tight, highlights the jawline and reduces jowling. Occasionally, prominent neck bands are released through these punctures as well. Such minimal incisions allow for a quicker recovery and for patients to return to work in as little as two to three days post-op. “Not only is the procedure revolutionary, making many benefits of cosmetic surgery more accessible, but the results are both dramatic and precise,” says Dr. Graivier. The procedure can also be customized for those who have more dramatic excess skin of the neckline by adding a minor skin excision component as well, also known as the Contouré Plus Neck Lift. This can be done using discreet incisions hidden around the ears and posterior hairline. Whether you’re exploring a well-known cosmetic procedure or simply considering ways to feel more confident in your skin, it’s worth taking the time to speak with an experienced surgical team. At The Graivier Center, a group of three double board-certified plastic surgeons leads a practice that blends advanced surgical care with a broad range of medspa and wellness services. Their integrated approach helps patients not only achieve their goals but also recover smoothly and maintain long-lasting results. State-of-the-art skin tightening devices like lasers and radiofrequency microneedling are known to not only maintain, but improve patient outcomes post-procedure, while their new wellness program offerings, such as hormone replacement therapy, pelvic floor rehabilitation, IV infusion therapy and peptides, make it possible for patients to feel as good as they look. Explore procedures, patient stories and expert guidance at TheGraivierCenter.com

Dr. Josh Kim & Dr. Gene Chung

Experience Dentistry Like Never Before— Comfortable, Gentle Care at Dentistry at Ivy Falls. At Dentistry at Ivy Falls, Dr. Joshua Kim and Dr. Gene Chung believe that every smile tells a story—and they’re here to help yours shine. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll experience dental care that’s personal, comfortable, and genuinely caring. Whether you’re here for a routine visit or exploring a full smile transformation, you’ll always be treated like family—with the time, attention, and expertise you deserve.

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Mon, Tues, Thur 9AM - 5PM • Fri 8AM - 2PM Closed Wednesdays (678) 992-5235 | www.dentistryativyfalls.com 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd. Ste. 501. Johns Creek, GA

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Parc at Duluth...

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Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

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Left: Lakeview at Fontana. Center: A private yoga practice at The Hemlocks with Nantahala Yoga Company. Right: Snow falls now and then on the trails at Nantahala Outdoor Center.

Journey to wellness in North Carolina

BACK TO NATURE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUE G. COLLINS

Ninety minutes in a bath sounded like a lot to me before my treetop soak in a private cabana at Lakeview at Fontana near Bryson City, NC. After a short but steep hike up a forested trail from the unmanned reception lounge (“Unplug. Unwind. Unhosted.” is Lakeview’s tagline), I found my cabana, a tiny mountain cabin open to the elements on one side. While I ran the bath (plenty of hot water), I used the loo (not open to the elements), changed into a fluffy robe and stepped down onto my private deck to take it all in. The view from the deck and tub reached the Great Smoky Mountains across Fontana Lake, with nary a human in sight. The experience was nurturing and heart-opening, bathing in the quiet embrace of the surrounding forest while soaking in an oversized tub built for two, a luxury for one. Soaking in a hot tub in the middle of the woods is multi-sensory therapy. And, the timing was perfect. Earlier in the day, we hiked a few challenging miles along the Flint Ridge with Barrett Wood, one of the knowledgeable guides from Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) where we were staying.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Nantahala Outdoor Center’s 500-acre main campus is bustling during the warmer months, with white water rafting and kayaking rentals and trips, a zipline adventure park, three restaurants and a variety of accommodations. But this time of year, it’s quiet and perfectly positioned where the Appalachian Trail meets the Nantahala River near the Great Smoky Mountains. The NOC’s new bungalow-style cabins, The Hemlocks, are modern one and two-bedroom homes with wrap-around decks and expansive views from a vaulted great room with an electric fireplace, huge TV and kitchenette. The River’s End Restaurant just down the hill is open year-round, serving comfort food, a really beefy, thick chili and great service. Bryson City’s historic downtown is a scenic 20-minute drive from The Hemlocks. Stop at Cardinal Coffee on the way for a really good latte, baked goods and local art. Winter is a smart time to travel to the mountains, where you’ll find a slower pace, acres of forested hiking trails and more open sky than you’ve seen in days. Soak it all up.

Look carefully as you head up the trail to your soaking cabana at Lakeview. Below: The Hemlocks at sunset.

Winter is also a good time to take a scenic drive. Pick a dry weekend and go for it! Nantahala River Gorge (US-74 W) – Drive through the Nantahala National Forest along the river, offering beautiful gorge and river views. Be ready to pull off at scenic overlooks. Road to Nowhere (Lakeview Drive) This six-mile mountain road leads into Great Smoky Mountains National Park and ends at a tunnel. It’s a great echo chamber. The road stops at the tunnel, so you’ll park and turn around. Newfound Gap Overlook – Drive up US-441 into Great Smoky Mountains National Park to reach Newfound Gap. At 5,046 feet, this famous overlook straddling the NC/TN state line offers sweeping mountain views. “Hellbender 28” to Fontana Lake & Dam – Take NC Highway 28 North (Hellbender 28) for a fun, curvy drive through the mountains. This route winds alongside Fontana and Cheoah Lakes, with hairpin turns. About 20 miles up NC-28, stop at Fontana Dam, the tallest dam in the Eastern U.S., which you can drive or walk across. Nantahala Outdoor Center The Hemlocks 13077 US-19 W, Bryson City, NC NOC.com Lakeview at Fontana 171 Lakeview Lodge Drive, Bryson City, NC LakeviewAtFontana.com Cardinal Coffee 22 Needmore Rd, Bryson City, NC CardinalCoffeeNC.com

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Enjoy by Summer!

JANUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

JANUARY 5TH

Kids Chess Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library | 6:00 PM Ages 6-12 are welcome at this program. Those who already play chess and those who would like to learn to play are welcome. Mondays in January. JANUARY 14 TH

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6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy Suite B500 | 7:00 PM The Future Is Female January SciFi Book Club. Join in for a discussion of “Some Desperate Glory,” a Hugo Award-winning novel about a warrior trained to avenge Earth’s destruction who defies orders to bear sons, escaping with her brother’s friend and an alien to discover a more complex universe. JANUARY 17TH

Ugly Pajama 5K Run 3835 Johns Creek Pkwy | 9:00 AM Who’s got some awesome ugly pajamas they want to show off? If you got ‘em for Christmas or years ago, come join us for a 5K pajama party! Pajamas are not required, so if you don’t have any, we still welcome you to join the fun! FiveStarNTP.com

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EVE N TS

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A NEW YEAR. A NEW ADDRESS. A NEW WAY OF LIVING. A year defined by elegance, intention, and extraordinary living. This season, step into a home that elevates every moment — where sunrise greets you through floor-to-ceiling glass, curated interiors whisper sophistication, and every detail is crafted for those who refuse the ordinary. Whether you’re expanding your legacy or discovering your next sanctuary, our team delivers bespoke guidance, white-glove service, design and staging services, pay at close pre-sale preparation, and unparalleled market insight. 2026 belongs to those who live beautifully. Start your new year in a home that defines you.

The Regan Maki Team REGAN MAKI COUCH: c. 404.304.6452 | o. 404.480.HOME | Regan@AnsleyRE.com CAL COUCH: c. 678.725.3942 | o. 770.284.9900 | Cal@AnsleyRE.com 404.480.HOME | 3035 PEACHTREE ROAD, SUITE 202, ATLANTA, GA 30305 | ANSLEYRE.COM All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation.

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