Roswell, GA April 2026

• Perimenopause/Menopause Evaluation and Management

• Functional Medicine/Longevity Evaluation and Management

• Gut Health Evaluation and Management

• Peptide Consults and Management

Each month we’ll highlight local nonprofits and offer simple, impactful ways you can get involved. APRIL CHARITY FEATURES:

This month, join me in donating to North Fulton Community Charities' Senior Baskets initiative. Help bring joy to local seniors who are living on fixed incomes through hand-delivered seasonal baskets filled with necessities and thoughtful treats.

Scan this code to donate a basket and bring joy to seniors in our community.

What's your Investment look like ?

Investment. By definition, it’s the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the hope of a worthwhile return. But in practice, it's much more. Whether it’s our community, relationships, finances, or personal growth, the things we invest in shape our futures and the lives of those around us.

We can invest in Roswell by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. Volunteering and mentoring are powerful ways to contribute to future generations. Financial investments help us build security and achieve long-term goals, while personal investments spending quality time with loved ones or fostering deeper connections bring immeasurable rewards to both ourselves and the people we care about. While the ways we choose to invest may look different for everyone, the common thread is the hope of making a positive impact.

This month’s issue explores various ways we can invest in our lives. Read on page 46 about how an act of community investment into art and technology here in Roswell is making such an impact. Every investment we make is an act of hope and commitment. Read how adults and kids alike are encouraged by dance and freedom of expression. As you read this issue, we hope you’ll feel inspired to invest in the people, places, and dreams that matter most to you. Hope to see you around Roswell as we celebrate out first Alive at Five April 19th and we encourage you to continue to support our local businesses and nonprofits featured throughout our pages. They create a better community and are instrumental in helping to bring our work to light each month.

With love,

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Tran Bui Smith | tran.smith@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Lan Pham | lan.pham@citylifestyle.com,

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com, Ian Jarvis Hathaway | ian.hathaway@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Kelly Lobuglio | kelly.lobuglio@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Mike Thomas | mike@mikethomasgroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Wendy Edwards, Tran Bui, Brennan Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Erik Voss, Luis Contreras

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

3:5-6

inside the issue

The Mimms Museum of Technology and Art is unveiling its

iNSPIRE: Fifty Years of Innovation from Apple exhibit, celebrating Apple’s 50-year history with over 2,000 rare artifacts, iconic devices, prototypes, and behind-thescenes stories to immerse visitors in the

Luis Contreras

city scene

1: Discover Strength celebrating their pre-grand opening memberships at Roswell Inc Evening Connect networking event 2: Greater North Fulton Chamber celebrates Roswell Body 20- now open for your exercise needs. 3: Farm to Table Tasting at Roswell North Elementary School for the kids 4: The Aesthetic Specialty Centre team spreading Valentine vibes at Roswell Inc’s Evening Connect. 5: Roswell Inc Evening Connect at Atlanta Academy 6: Roswell Rotary & PTSA host Leadership 20/20 for 62 Roswell High School students 7: Clean Eatz is now open under new ownership in Roswell

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Roswell Earns 2025 Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community Designation

The City of Roswell has been named a 2025 Bronze-Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, one of 10 Georgia communities recognized. First applying in 2005 and earning bronze in 2006, Roswell has maintained the designation through 2025. Mayor Mary Robichaux said the honor reflects the city’s commitment to accessible, healthy living, while league leaders praised Roswell’s continued efforts to support safe, everyday bicycling.

Groundbreaking Marks New Chapter for The Chambray in Downtown Roswell

City leaders and community partners gathered in downtown Roswell to break ground on The Chambray, a 125-key boutique hotel opening Summer 2027. Developed by DSM Real Estate Partners and Stafford Development Company, and operated by Indigo Road Hospitality Group, the hotel will be part of Hyatt’s JdV Collection. Located near Canton Street and Southern Post, it will feature curated dining concepts, rooftop views, meeting space, and amenities designed to welcome both travelers and locals.

Luxury is an experience, and we provide it at every price point. Whether you are buying or selling, our unwavering commitment lies in masterfully representing you. Contact us today for all your real estate

Kicking off Thursday April 16th, Celebrate community, culture, and America’s spirit at Alive in Roswell. A free, family-friendly festival held every third Thursday evening (5–9 PM) from April through October. Hosted by the City of Roswell, this lively monthly festival brings together live bands, interactive vendors, entertainment, and more. Enjoy the local atmosphere with small businesses, boutiques, and restaurants along Canton Street and beyond, fostering a true sense of community spirit in downtown Roswell.

Congratulations to February Employee of the Month, Tim Haase

Tim has been with the City for over 13 years and is Facility Operations and Maintenance Coordinator in the Recreation and Parks department.

Tim demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience when the Roswell Cultural Arts Center lost heat during a winter freeze. Thanks to his quick action, steady communication, full operations were restored and the Roswell Roots kickoff event went on.

Tim is a true reflection of excellence in public service. CONTINUED >

Inside Roswell takes you behind the scenes of City Hall for honest conversations about how the City of Roswell works—and why it matters to you.

Hosted by  Mayor Mary Robichaux, the podcast features discussions with City leadership, elected officials, and staff about planning, major projects, public safety, and long-term priorities. Inside Roswell is rooted in transparency, trust, and helping residents better understand the decisions shaping Roswell’s future.

https://www.roswellgov.com/ government/podcast/

Neurodivergent Children REDEFINING EDUCATION FOR

Inside Rocli, a hybrid homeschool center built from lived experience and real-life need

ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI

When Feleshia Sams talks about Rocli, she isn’t describing a business concept. She’s talking about real life.

Rocli was born from Feleshia’s experience as a mother raising a neurodivergent daughter with autism who is nonverbal and communicates through an AAC device. As her daughter approached school age, Feleshia quickly realized how difficult it was to find an environment that truly understood her child’s needs; one that prioritized safety, communication, and meaningful learning, not just supervision.

She tried to make traditional options work. But the same gaps kept appearing: limited transparency, inconsistent communication, and supports that didn’t feel individualized. Even more troubling was realizing how often systems fail to protect a child who can’t come home and explain what happened during their day.

“If I couldn’t find the right environment for my child,” Feleshia says, “I would build it—intentionally, with dignity, structure, and collaboration at the center.”

That decision became Rocli, a hybrid homeschool and learning center designed specifically to support neurodivergent children.

Unlike traditional schools that are often built around rigid schedules, large class sizes, and staffing constraints, Rocli flips the model. Children participate in small-group Learning Blocks that are two-hour instructional sessions with low ratios, typically no more than five learners. The focus is on real teaching, meaningful engagement, and honoring each child’s learning profile.

Life skills, communication, and regulation are foundational. Every part of the day is designed with the understanding that learning looks different for every child.

Before a child begins, families complete a Rocli Roadmap, a personalized plan similar to an IEP but more collaborative and practical. It captures parent goals, learning needs, and therapist input, creating a shared understanding of how to best support each child.

CONTINUED >

“If I couldn’t find the right environment for my child,” Feleshia says, “I would build it— intentionally, with dignity, structure, and collaboration at the center.”

Rocli serves homeschool families by providing consistent, structured, center-based learning without positioning itself as a traditional school. The model was shaped through Feleshia’s lived experience, conversations with therapists, and collaboration with special education teachers who understand these gaps firsthand. Even the language is intentional. Rocli staff are called guides, not teachers, reflecting the philosophy that children aren’t being forced through a system. They are being guided through learning in a way that works for them. Guides bring backgrounds in special education, behavior therapy, BCBA work, or a combination of those roles.

Learning at Rocli is visual, interactive, and hands-on. Children demonstrate understanding through matching, selecting, movement, and guided engagement not only verbal responses. Families can also bring their child’s therapist into sessions, helping reduce fragmentation across services.

The response from families has been powerful. Parents of AAC users and non-speaking learners frequently share that they finally feel seen, and that Rocli is something they’ve been praying for.

Life skills are woven into everyday learning, and future plans include community experience Fridays, which include group outings to restaurants, parks, movies, and other public spaces where children can practice realworld skills with built-in support. Rocli also plans to host parent-focused gatherings with guest speakers and local resources covering topics like IEP navigation, funding options, insurance basics, and therapy resources.

Because, as Feleshia says, learning isn’t only for kids. Parents are learning too.

Rocli is deeply personal for Feleshia. It’s a step of faith shaped by lived experience, community support, and a desire to build something better for families who have long felt overlooked.

Her hope is simple: that Rocli becomes a place where neurodivergent children are truly understood and where parents finally find their village.

rocliworks.com

Live in Your Wheel House the new book helping you create a home that fits your life, not just your list. From your neighbor and Roswell Realtor, Kim Costa

Atlanta Fine Homes | Sotheby’s International Realty

8000 Avalon Blvd, Suite 800, Alpharetta, GA 30009

kimcosta@atlantafinehomes com

AVAILABLE NOW WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD Go to www lifestylefoundations com for info on special bonuses and Wheel House workshops!

POWER TOOLS: DIY ADIRONDACK CHAIRS

Invest in a project to call your very own - It’s Spring!

It's time to be dreaming about warmer temps and soon to be summer nights. Moving into this season if you want more chairs to set out in the garden or patio try this at home DIY project. These Adirondack Chairs are an easy project, and with just a few tools and wood from Home Depot, this is a project you can do in just a few hours. There are only a handful of things you will need to complete this project: a miter saw, drill and a kreg jig which you can rent at a local Home Depot, or Ace hardware

store as well as a few things you most likely have in your home workshop, which includes a tape measure and safety glasses.

CUT LIST

• 5 – 2x4 @ 19 1/2 inches long

• 2 – 2x4 @31 ¾ inches long

• 2 – 2x4 @ 33 ¼ inches long – on these ends cut at 20 degrees off square as seen in photo 2 -2x4 @ 32 ¾ inches

ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE

• 2 – 1x10 @ 22 ½ inches for the seat

• 3 – 1x10 @ 19 ½ inches for the back

SUPPLIES

• 3 – 2x4 that are 104 5/8 inches long

• 1 – 1x10 that is 10 feet long

• 4 – 2 1/2 inches long Kreg Pocket hole screws

• 24 – 2 1/2 inches long self-tapping exterior screws

• 30 –1 ½ inches long self-tapping exterior screws

• safety glasses

• miter saw

• drill

• Kreg Jig

• tape measure

• pencil

• sander

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1 : Cut the chair stringers at a 90-degree angle at the foot. Attach the 31 3/4 arms with 2 1/2 inch screws to one of the 19 1/2 inch 2x4 boards. Build the arms the same way.

Step 2: Drill pocket holes on both ends of two of the 19 1/2 inch 2x4s. Attach the 2 1/2 inch screws to the frame of the chair.

It’s time to be dreaming about warmer temps and soon to be summer nights.

Step 3: Lay the seat boards that are 22 1/2 inches to the frame of the chair with 1 1/2 inch screws. Screw three per side and leave 1/4 inch gap in between for water drainage.

Step 4: Place one of the 19 1/2 inch boards behind the chair back for support and attach the 32 3/4 boards flush to the bottom of the stringer and attach through the legs of the chair with 2 /12 inch screws. Repeat with the other side then remove the support board.

Step 5: Attach a 19 1/2 inch 2x4 to base of the chair in the back with 2 1/2 inch screws and then attach the seat back 19 1/2 inch 1x10s to the chair back using 1 1/2 inch screws and leaving a gap for drainage. Sand and stain with a good exterior stain. When complete, just sand and finish with an appropriate exterior finish or paint.

For more in depth step-by-step plans, visit me on Instagram at @uncommon.jane and message me for plans.

ARTICLE BY BRENNAN SMITH

GAME. SET. GROWTH

COLLEEN CRAIG: TURNING VISION, GRIT, AND COMMUNITY PURPOSE INTO OWNERSHIP AND LAUNCH OF ATLANTA VIBE, GEORGIA’S GROUNDBREAKING ENTRY INTO MAJOR LEAGUE PRO WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL

ON THE COURT WHERE A DREAM TOOK SHAPE

On January 24, 2024, inside a roaring Omaha arena, the Atlanta Vibe clinched a fiveset thriller in the firstever Major League Volleyball match. For Colleen Craig, standing amid the noise, tension, and celebration, the moment was more than a win it was the realization of a dream years in the making. “I don’t know if you can beat that… maybe the next big inflection point is when you see it at State Farm Arena.” Colleen says. That victory marked a powerful beginning for Georgia’s first professional women’s volleyball team and for the woman determined to build something meaningful for the city and community.

A MISSION GROUNDED IN PURPOSE

To Colleen, life’s north star comes down to a guiding principle: “How can I utilize my God-given talents to do the greatest good?” “How can I give back?” These principles have defined her path from Cornell, where she walked on as a two-spot athlete in

track and volleyball, to earning her MBA at Harvard, to a successful career in finance and entrepreneurship.

Each chapter prepared her for this one leading the professional women’s volleyball team in Georgia and participating on the Major League Volleyball Board of Governors. Finding home in Atlanta, Colleen, who is the first female owner in Major League Volleyball, wasn’t sure she would stay in Atlanta for more than a few years. Colleen was born in Buffalo, NY and first moved south after receiving her MBA in 1996. She returned in 2013 after years in the NYC financial services industry to raise her three sons near family. It didn’t take long for Atlanta to win her over. “You get down here and immediately realize Atlanta is special… Many people are transplants…folks are so nice…there are Fortune 100, Fortune 500 companies... not to mention great weather. I fell in love with it.” she says. Her growing love for Atlanta, combined with a desire for meaningful impact, pushed her to search for new opportunities especially through sport.

BUILDING THE BASE: LAKEPOINT AND RALLY VOLLEYBALL

Stepping away from her hedge fund career in New York City, Colleen reflected on what helped her succeed in the business arena. A common denominator was her sports experience. She dug deep into the process conducting her own primary research, immersing herself in the industry and meeting with stakeholders across the country. She saw quickly where she could help. She noticed a fragmented volleyball ecosystem coupled with massive participation and significant upside potential. “They need to apply some basic business principles… I can help with that.” Her early foothold came at LakePoint Sports in Cartersville, which inspired an even larger vision. In 2014, she launched Rally Volleyball a platform supporting youth, collegiate and adult participation through leagues, tournaments and volleyball programming.

A DEFINING MOMENT AT THE AVCA CONVENTION

By 2022, she was searching for the “top of the pyramid” a way to elevate the sport at its highest level. That moment arrived at the American Volleyball Coaches Association Convention, where she learned about Major League Volleyball’s initial franchises. Within weeks, she knew Atlanta should have one too. By February 2023, Colleen signed to launch the Atlanta Vibe, with a debut

season scheduled for 2024. “This is a traditional pro sport… You own a franchise.. You operate in your city. This is a no brainer.”

LAUNCHING THE VIBE: A TEAM ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

Now in their third season, the Vibe compete in a deep and talented Major League Volleyball landscape while forging a presence in three distinct arenas: the consciousness of sports fans in Georgia, on the floor against their opponents and in an impactful way in Atlanta communities. The 2026 Vibe schedule includes 12 home matches at Gas South Arena in Duluth and two in downtown Atlanta at the Georgia State Convocation Center, a deliberate choice to reach diverse communities. “We represent a wide swath of the city.” Colleen sees this opportunity as building a community asset, not a private venture. She brings a startup mindset to build smart, strong, and with purpose.

A VISION THAT EXTENDS FAR BEYOND THE COURT

For Colleen, the Omaha win remains a cherished memory, but it’s only the beginning. She imagines bigger arenas, broader reach, stronger pathways for women athletes, and a sustainable future for professional volleyball in the U.S. Atlanta Vibe isn’t just a team it’s a movement, a mission, and a statement about what’s possible when passion, purpose and community come together.

atlantavibe.com

Atlanta’s Premier Beauty School

Empowering the Next Generation of Beauty Professionals through Excellence in Education.

The International School of Skin, Nailcare and Massage Therapy (ISSNMT) is a premier institution for aspiring professionals in the beauty and wellness industry. With a legacy of excellence and innovation, ISSNMT is dedicated to shaping the future of esthetics, nail technology, massage therapy, phlebotomy, cosmetology, and barbering through exceptional education hands on training, and professional mentorship.

Day and Evening Classes

• Hands-on Learning in the Student Salon and Spa Financial Aid Available to Those Who Qualify

• VA Approved for Most Programs

• Accredited and Licensed and NCBTMB and GNPEC approved school

• Strong Educators and Caring Atmosphere for Students

• Stellar 40-year History Career Placement Assistance Available

As a family-owned practice, we treat each patient with personalized care, focusing on creating positive, lasting changes. Whether you aim to address bite problems or enhance the alignment of your teeth for a more attractive smile, our offerings are tailored to meet your individual requirements. We utilize the latest digital technology to provide precise diagnostics and tailor treatment plans that meet the highest standards of excellence. Our commitment to a practice filled with happiness and positive energy means that every visit will be a comfortable and uplifting experience for both you and your family.

ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI

ADULT HIP-HOP:

WHE RE GROWN-UPS GET THEIR GROOVE BACK

Adult Hip Hop started organically. Parents watching their children dance began noticing the joy, the confidence, the release happening inside those studio walls. Eventually, someone asked the question: Why can’t we do that too?

“Adult Hip Hop classes started at our studio after the parents saw how much fun their younger children were having in class,” founder Nancy Tolbert Yilmaz explains. “You can join with whatever skill level you have and the fun never ends. This is now one of our most popular classes."

“I started teaching adult hip hop roughly 10 years ago,” instructor Pumkin Byrd shares. “It started out as a space for parents to come and release, work out and enjoy without having to compete with teenagers… it grew into something much greater!"

What began with six moms has grown into two full classes, capped at 18 dancers each, now a mix of men and women from all walks of life. These dancers don’t just take class. They perform in the annual recital in full costume, and spots fill quickly each season.

Pumkin, who trained in hip hop and jazz and traveled the world as a background dancer for major artists, brings professional choreography into a welcoming,  judgment-free space.

“It has truly been a blessing to not only teach the kiddos ages 6–18 years, but for Mrs. Nancy Tolbert Yilmaz to graciously allow space for the adults to ‘get their groove on,’” she says. “It’s been a highlight in my career.”

The culture of the class is what keeps people coming back.

Nicholas Porche admits it pushes him. “Hip Hop is challenging. It’s outside of my comfort zone. But if we don’t challenge ourselves, we cannot grow! The group of dancers are supportive and make you feel at home.”

Support is a common theme.

Christy Abrams calls it her weekly reset. “Hip Hop is the one thing I do for myself each week that I look forward to more than anything else… it’s therapy, laughter, movement and joy. It’s just true self care! Also, after class on parent watch day, my 13-yearold came up to me and said, ‘Mom, you just looked so happy!’ (which makes me think I need to put on some Missy Elliott and dance in the kitchen more!).”

For Urvi Patel, the experience has created connection across generations. “As a strictly jazz square dancer learned from musical theater 30 years ago, this class has been a great way to connect with my dancer daughters. This is my 5th season and every year I'm astonished at how much I learn from our teacher and my fellow dancers.”

Even seasoned professionals find meaning in the room.

Kat Slatery, a professional breaker and hip hop dancer, says, “Training has always been at the core of who I am. Learning from pioneers and the culture itself since my early teens shaped my foundation, but taking adult hip hop at Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance brings me back to my ‘why.’”

“Dancing alongside parents and fellow adults who choose joy in the middle of full lives is powerful. It’s a safe, ego free space to grow, sweat, and stay inspired. As a working actor, continuing to train keeps me grounded, creatively sharp, and emotionally connected.”

She adds, “Pumkin and I have been friends for years in the industry, and her choreography challenges me without creating competition in the room, allowing me to stay present and fully express myself through movement.”

That absence of competition is intentional. The focus is growth, not comparison.

Kristen Taylor, who takes both adult tap and hip hop, appreciates the commitment. “Everyone is serious about showing up

to dance, and supportive of each other in class and in the group chat. It’s a welcoming, convivial group of dancers I look forward to seeing every week.”

Another dancer shares that she loves the positive environment where everyone cheers each other on and celebrates each other’s gifts. After ignoring her inner dancer for 30 years, she says this class allows her to let that part of herself out again in a safe, joyful space. Thursday nights have become something she truly looks forward to.

What’s happening at TYSOD goes beyond choreography.

In a season of life filled with careers, carpools, and commitments, choosing to dance can feel indulgent, but it quickly becomes essential. It’s loud music after long meetings. It’s sweat after stress. It’s remembering who you are outside of responsibility.

Nancy Tolbert Yilmaz’s decision to open the studio to adults reflects a simple philosophy: dance belongs to everyone. In addition to Adult Hip Hop, TYSOD offers adult ballet, tap, and Pilates, creating space for movement at every stage of life.

But Adult Hip Hop holds a special kind of energy. It’s bold. It’s expressive. It’s empowering.

On recital night, when the lights dim and the music drops, the audience doesn’t see hesitation. They see adults who chose joy. Who chose growth. Who chose to show up.

And perhaps that’s the most powerful choreography of all. Stepping back into something that makes you feel alive.

tysod.com

ADULT DANCE AT TYSOD

ADU LT HIP HOP AT TOLBERT YILMAZ SCHOOL OF DANCE HAS GROWN FROM ONE CLASS OF SIX MOMS TO TWO FULL CLASSES OF 18 DANCERS EACH. THE STUDIO ALSO OFFERS ADULT BALLET, TAP, AND PILATES PROVING IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO MOVE, GROW, AND REDISCOVER JOY.

Local Cravings

Spotlighting standout dishes that keep diners returning to beloved restaurants.

Be sure to visit and check out some of Roswell's hot spots featured to explore, dine out and discover what makes them each special!

Brewable

Where Great Lunch Meets Greater Purpose: Brewable Roswell’s January Specials Shine

Brewable Roswell's rotating lunch specials are unbeatable: pick two items for $10 or all three for $14.50. This January, choose from a signature quiche, fresh mandarin orange almond salad with zesty tarragon dressing, and soup of the day. Pair it with fresh coffee or a pastry. When you order, you're supporting meaningful employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Open weekdays 8am–2pm and Sundays 9am–2pm, these thoughtfully crafted meals come from a kitchen that sees every plate as an opportunity to build community, one lunch at a time.

Hugo's Oyster Bar

Welcome to Hugo’s Oyster Bar, a neighborhood favorite in downtown Roswell for over 13 years. We bring bold Cajun coastal flavors straight from the Gulf Coast, specializing in Cajun-style seafood and our fan-favorite chargrilled oysters. We focus on fresh ingredients, big flavors, and dishes meant to be shared and enjoyed. Enjoy a signature cocktail, cold beer, or a glass of wine with your meal. Relax inside or head out to our newly renovated outdoor patio. With laid-back vibes, Hugo’s is ideal for date nights, group gatherings, or an easygoing night out with great food and great company.

tomato-2.com

cantonstsocial.com

davincisdonuts.com

madridspanishtaverna.com

vilacrepecafe.com

brewable.org

hugosoysterbar.com

luckysburgerandbrew.com

thehummusrepublic.com

Hot Spots: Dine, Sip, Repeat is your curated guide to the places we can’t stop returning to—Roswell’s must-try, must-repeat favorites. From standout dining rooms to vibrant patios and cozy cocktail corners, these are the go-to spots you’ll want to visit again and again. We showcase the destinations shaping Roswell’s food and drink scene and the experiences that keep locals coming back. Have a business you think deserves the spotlight in a future Hot Spot feature? Email lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com to be considered.

Sponsored by: mtg-marketing.com

Where Roswell’s Past Meets America’s Unfolding National Story

ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, communities across the country are reflecting on the people, places, and moments that shaped our national identity. In Roswell, that reflection came to life at Bulloch Hall during a special afternoon reception welcoming Kermit Roosevelt III, great-greatgrandson of President Theodore Roosevelt.

Hosted by the City of Roswell in partnership with Fine Book Fairs, the event invited guests to explore the Roosevelt family’s deep ties to Roswell—connections rooted in one of the city’s most cherished historic landmarks.

A distinguished historian reflects on the Roosevelt legacy, Bulloch Hall, and Roswell’s enduring role in shaping America’s future.

Bulloch Hall occupies a unique place in American history. In 1853, the Hall’s elegant dining room served as the setting for the wedding of Mittie Bulloch, the youngest daughter of the Bulloch family, and Theodore Roosevelt Sr. Their son, Theodore Roosevelt, would later become the 26th President of the United States. Though born and raised in New York City, President Roosevelt maintained a personal connection to Roswell and returned in 1905 to visit his mother’s childhood home.

During the reception, Professor Roosevelt reflected on this legacy through a broader historical lens, examining America’s post–Civil War efforts toward unity and identity as the nation prepared to step onto the global stage of the 20th century.

Kermit Roosevelt III serves as the David Berger Professor of the Administration of Justice at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and is widely respected for his scholarship in constitutional law. He is the author of The Nation That Never Was: Reconstructing America’s Story, a thought-provoking exploration of how Americans understand their past. Copies of the book were available for purchase and signing, offering guests a chance for personal conversation and deeper insight.

Bulloch Hall is owned and operated by the City of Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department and supported by Friends of Bulloch, Inc., a Georgia-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Together, they continue to preserve Roswell’s historic treasures while creating meaningful opportunities for education and engagement.

For more information on Bulloch Hall and the Southern Trilogy historic house museums: friendsofbullochhall.org

Friends of Bulloch Hall

180 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

Preserving Innovation, Inspiring

What’s Next

PRESERVING INNOVATION, INSPIRING WHAT’S NEXT

ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI

Every swipe, click, and stream traces back to a defining moment. A prototype. A pitch. A breakthrough. The Mimms Museum of Technology and Art stands as a living archive of those moments, preserving the technology and the bold thinking that transformed the way we live.

As a nonprofit organization, the museum exists for a purpose far greater than display. Its mission is rooted in preservation, education, and community impact, ensuring the history of computing and innovation remains accessible to future generations.

What began as a personal collection has grown into one of the most significant archives of computing history in the country.

“The idea grew out of my lifelong passion for collecting and preserving historic computers and technology,” says Board Chairman and Founder Lonnie Mimms. “Over time, I realized many of these artifacts and their stories were disappearing. I did not want those milestones to be lost.”

That curiosity transformed into a mission. Machines that once filled offices, laboratories, and garages were quietly vanishing. Prototypes were discarded. Launch materials were overlooked. Entire chapters of innovation risked being forgotten.

“Technology shapes nearly every part of modern life, yet its history is surprisingly fragile,” says Co-Founder Karin Mimms. “Preserving these machines honors the people behind them and reminds us that innovation happens step by step.”

FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION TO PUBLIC INSTITUTION

For decades, the collection expanded steadily. It eventually required storage spaces and larger facilities as its significance became undeniable.

“When we opened to the public in 2019, it marked a new chapter,” says Executive Director Rena Youngblood. “We were no longer simply preserving artifacts. We were creating a place where people could experience this history firsthand.”

Since opening its doors, attendance, exhibits, programming, and partnerships have grown. Collectors across the country now entrust their technological legacies to the museum, confident their artifacts will be preserved with care and long term stewardship.

The institution has evolved from a remarkable collection into a dynamic cultural resource.

WHERE TECHNOLOGY MEETS ART

As leadership reflected on how best to tell the story of innovation, one truth became clear. Technology cannot be separated from creativity.

“Technology and art have always been intertwined,” shares Elaine Pelaia, Director of Museum Operations. “From industrial design to digital graphics, innovation is as much about creativity as it is about engineering. We want visitors to see that great technology is not just functional. It is expressive and human.”

By incorporating art, advertising, typography, product design, and cultural storytelling, the museum broadens the narrative.

DEFINING MOMENTS IN INNOVATION

Lonnie notes that early personal computers from companies like Apple Inc. and IBM are especially meaningful because they represent the moment computing moved from institutions into homes and small businesses. Original advertising materials and launch memorabilia are equally powerful. They capture the excitement of those breakthrough moments. Each artifact tells a story about possibility and risk.

“Those early systems changed everything,” Lonnie explains. “They made technology personal.”

That story continues with the museum’s newest exhibition. In March, the museum unveiled  iNSPIRE : 50 Years of Innovation from Apple, an immersive exploration of Apple’s evolution from startup to global cultural force. The exhibition highlights breakthrough products, iconic marketing campaigns, design philosophy, and the bold thinking that helped redefine personal technology.

“It allows visitors to see how one company influenced not just computing, but culture,” says Rena. “It shows how innovation, design, and storytelling work together.”

The museum is also home to the largest collection of Cray supercomputers in the world. These systems pushed the boundaries of high performance computing and demonstrated what bold engineering could accomplish at the highest level. Complementing this legacy of high performance innovation, the space exploration exhibit showcases the groundbreaking computing and engineering technologies that enabled humanity’s earliest journeys beyond Earth.

Together, the collection tells a much bigger story. It shows how technology became personal and how innovators kept pushing the limits of what was possible. Standing in front of these machines, visitors see more than hardware. They see big ideas brought to life.

AN EXPERIENCE ACROSS GENERATIONS

For many guests, the experience is deeply personal.

“Visitors often feel nostalgia, surprise, and inspiration,” says Karin. “Some recognize the computer they first learned on. Younger visitors are often amazed by how quickly technology has evolved.”

Parents point out systems they once used at work. Grandparents share stories of early office transitions. Students encounter floppy disks and processors with curiosity.

The exhibits are immersive yet accessible, designed to spark conversation across generations.

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY. FOCUSED ON POSSIBILITY.

Community engagement remains central to the museum’s mission.

“A museum should be more than a destination. It should be a community asset,” Rena says. “When we invest locally, we strengthen families, schools, tourism, and economic vitality.”

Through partnerships with educators and organizations, innovation is not simply displayed. It is cultivated.

“Through field trips, lectures, special exhibits, and hands on engagement, we connect past innovation to future possibility,” says Karin. “Students begin to see that many groundbreaking technologies were created by people who were once young and curious.”

That realization shifts perspective. Innovation feels accessible.

“We want visitors to leave with a deeper appreciation for the human side of technology,” Elaine says. “Behind every device is vision, design, experimentation and collaboration.”

For Lonnie, the mission remains clear.

“This was never just about collecting,” he admits. “It is about making sure the defining moments that shaped our digital world are not forgotten.”

Visit the Mimms Museum of Technology and Art

Explore where innovation and creativity meet. From early personal computers and iconic supercomputers to art, design, and the new  iNSPIRE  exhibit, the museum brings big ideas to life for every generation.

5000 Commerce Parkway Roswell, Georgia 30076 mimmsmuseum.org

DANCING into SPRING

Dance Competition Season showcases ADC's dancer's talent and growth.

ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS

Spring is a season of renewal, fresh starts, and creative momentum. For dancers and performers, it also marks the beginning of dance competition season, when months of dedication and discipline come to life on stage. Inside the studio at Atlanta Dance Central, excitement builds as dancers fine-tune routines and prepare for performances. For owner Charlotte Williamson, this is the most rewarding time of year, offering a firsthand look at the growth in artistic expression, confidence, and technical execution that defines each dancer’s journey.

From ballet and hip-hop to aerial silks, Atlanta Dance Central offers a wide range of disciplines designed to meet dancers where they are. The studio welcomes students of all abilities, emphasizing individuality, personal growth, and honoring each dancer’s goals. This inclusive philosophy creates an environment where students explore creativity while building strong technical foundations.

In addition to its core offerings, ADC provides opportunities for dancers eager to push themselves further. Students auditioning for the Atlanta Rising Talent (ART) program are evaluated for their passion, commitment, and desire to perform with greater intensity. Auditions are open to dancers both within Atlanta Dance Central and from outside the studio.

Dancers selected for the program work toward refining routines and skills for the ART Gala in April, with this year’s performance featuring a Beatles-themed ballet with music and costumes. The program’s most distinctive element, however, is the ART Exhibition. Performed for a live audience, the ART Exhibition is filmed and shared with industry professionals across the United States, who provide detailed critiques. Charlotte relays, “It's amazing how much improvement happens for the dancers when they can see themselves as the audience will see them and they hear other ‘possibilities’ from these professionals.”

Atlanta Dance Central also stands out for its Aerial Dance Program. Aerial silks is a dynamic art form that blends strength, grace, and storytelling through movement on suspended fabric. What began with a single silk and four dancers has grown into one of the studio’s most sought-after programs. Founded and led by Jeremy Williamson, the program includes five classes and more than fifty students preparing for recital. The studio has formed an Aerial Performance Group (APG), unique in the aerial dance arena, which will perform a production called FLY in April, showcasing skills learned throughout the year.

Building the aerial program was a painstaking process that Jeremy has devoted himself to for the past 12 years. Drawing on a combination of a physics degree from the University of Georgia, years of dance, and CrossFit and CrossFit Kids training, he created a curriculum rooted in strength-based skills that support aerial technique. Charlotte explains, “Because he understands how the load, force, effort, affects the skill, he was the perfect person to try this.”

As the program expanded, Jeremy balanced leading classes with ensuring it could scale to meet demand. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new challenges, including the need for individual silks. “We made the decision to allow our aerial students to each have their own silk in our Teen Aerial classes. This meant purchasing about 30 new silks at the time and adding a total of 16 rigging points in our large studio. While this was quite expensive, the progress that the students can make when they have a full class with a silk to themselves is amazing,” Charlotte says.

Looking ahead to 2026, Atlanta Dance Central continues to grow with a focus on lasting community impact. Charlotte shares, “We are focused on keeping our ADC community connected even after a student is no longer taking dance classes. It’s truly a remarkable place that I would love to welcome everyone to join. I recently read a quote in My Friends by Fredrik Backman that really spoke to me: ‘Art is the part of ourselves that we leave in others.’ I think that perfectly encapsulates why I do what I do and just how impactful the ADC community is.”

atlantadancecentral.com

Charlotte relays, “It's amazing how much improvement happens for the dancers when they can see themselves as the audience will see them and they hear other ‘possibilities’ from these professionals.”

Summer Classes for early registration begin now for all ages.

Come explore the best selection of wines in town! Shop to take home or stay awhile and enjoy our cozy tasting room We offer a wide variety of wines to shop and you can sample several options in our self-service WineStations. We have something for everyone!

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There are many choices involved in planning a funeral. It is our experience, that having gone through the stress of funeral arrangements, many people want to consider the benefits of advance planning. When you plan-ahead, you can design every detail of your own final tribute and protect your loved ones from unnecessary emotional and financial burdens.

To get started we have created a comprehensive journal called the Personal Planning Guide, contact us anytime at (770) 993-4811 to receive your complimentary copy. “When

INVITE WILL TO SPEAK

Will Hargen and his mother, Tracy, now share their story at corporate events, nonprofit gatherings, leadership trainings, and community forums. Their message centers on resilience, open dialogue, and the life changing power of compassionate listening.

For speaking engagements and booking information, visit: www.tracyhargen.com

ARTICLE BY TRAN BUI

A CONVERSATION THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING

ONE ROSWELL STUDENT. ONE TEACHER. A MOMENT THAT CHANGED THE TRAJECTORY OF A LIFE.

Before national interviews and speaking engagements, Will Hargen was a Roswell student immersed in theater.

He attended Queen of Angels before moving on to Blessed Trinity. By sophomore year, backstage work, set building, and rehearsals had become his world. That same year, the theater department began working on Next to Normal , a musical centered on mental illness, grief, and family. Its themes were weighty and for Will, deeply personal.

The turning point began during a class discussion about mental health, a conversation that felt different from the others.

For Will, hearing an adult speak openly about depression created an unexpected opening.

“Will actually came to me! He initiated the conversation after I brought up mental health in a class discussion, so he knew that I was a safe person to talk to about mental health issues,” says Will’s former teacher, Gamble.

After rehearsal one day, Will approached Gamble privately.

“I think I need help. What can I do?”

At the time, he had been quietly struggling for years.

“I had been depressed since my earliest memories, so I just thought that was how it was always going to be.”

More than a decade later, Gamble still recalls the seriousness of what he shared.

“I remember Will coming to my office to talk a few times about being sad and frustrated. One day, he came in and seemed to be struggling more than usual. He was feeling hopeless and wondering why he was just continuing to feel so terribly.”

Gamble encouraged him to speak with his parents and seek professional help. It required vulnerability. It required courage.

For his mother, Tracy, the revelation was shocking.

“He told me he had been seriously depressed for a long time. I had no idea. He was happy, laughing, having fun. I thought he was a happy go lucky all American kid doing great.”

Like many parents, she saw the smiles and the activity, not the internal struggle. That realization reshaped how she approaches conversations at home.

“Talking about them brings it out into the open and puts words to their feelings, the first step to getting help.”

Will chose to take that step, a decision that would alter the direction of his life.

“Asking for help was a pivot point in my life.  Asking for help and everything that followed changed the trajectory of how my mental health was going to go for the rest of my life.”

Therapy, medical guidance, and honest conversations at home followed. Progress was gradual, but meaningful.

“I went from a kid who thought being depressed was just my reality to someone who can feel the daylight again.”

Today, he has built a successful career in consulting and is engaged, milestones that once felt out of reach.

What began in a classroom has since expanded far beyond Roswell. Will and his mother now share their story publicly, appearing on national media, partnering with nonprofits, and speaking to audiences about resilience and hope.

Gamble believes the lesson extends far beyond one student.

“Be compassionate. Listen. Community is everything. It's okay to not be okay. It's okay to ask for help. (And as Will and his family will tell you, asking for help isn't giving up. Asking for help is refusing to give up.)”

For Will, the message is simple and deeply personal.

“Trust that the people who care about you will support you through this and want to be there to help.”

One honest conversation. One brave teenager. One teacher willing to speak openly.

Sometimes that’s all it takes to change a life.

The Sound of 2 Lives Well Played

Where the Story lives, the notes between the lines

Long before he stepped onto stages or built a following, Joe Gransden was a wide-eyed ten-year-old with a trumpet in his hands and a future already quietly unfolding. Music was never background noise in his childhood it was the language of his home. His grandfather, a professional trumpet player in New York, filled rooms with a rich tone that it stopped young Joe in his tracks. Watching him practice and perform was inspiring and transformative.

“I couldn’t get enough of it,” Gransden recalls. “I practiced all day and never got tired.”  He knew the trumpet wasn’t just an instrument. It was his life’s path.

His father was an accomplished jazz pianist and singer, and his mother, a dancer and choreographer, ensured that legends flowed steadily through the speakers. Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Miles Davis, Chet Baker, Sarah Vaughan. Gransden gravitated toward the cool vulnerability of Baker, the phrasing of Sinatra, and the fearless expression of Miles. Learning those records by ear shaped not only his musicianship, but his confidence. Eventually, it gave him the courage to step onstage.

Today, after decades of performing, what keeps him returning to that stage is simple: connection. “The energy from the crowd is intoxicating,” he says. “It brings me joy and fulfillment.”

ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIK VOSS

For Gransden, jazz is not a performance delivered at an audience; it’s a shared experience created with them. Onstage, whether leading a big band or playing in an intimate ensemble, he describes the music as a conversation — one built not on words but on trust. Eye contact replaces dialogue. Listening becomes as important as playing. Each musician is given space to speak, supported by the others. “It’s a democracy,” he explains. “We respect each other and the audience.”

Improvisation sits at the heart of that. Much like life, a jazz solo requires structure but allows freedom. There are rules, yes — but within them lies the liberty to say something uniquely your own. It mirrors the way Gransden approaches living: steady, grounded, but unafraid to go with the flow.

Time, too, has deepened his artistry. “As you live more,” he reflects, “joy, heartbreak, loneliness, achievements — they find their way into your music.” Technical precision gradually gives way to emotional truth.

He remembers wanting to sing the classic “This Is All I Ask,” recorded memorably by Sinatra and Tony Bennett. For years, his father gently held him back. “Not yet,” he’d say. “You’re not ready.” When Gransden turned fifty, the two revisited the song together and agreed it was time. Life experience had finally caught up to the lyrics.

Beyond performance, Gransden sees stewardship as part of his role. Through masterclasses, brass clinics, and his newly founded initiative The Future of Jazz , in partnership with the Atlanta Music Club, he is investing in the next generation. Passing along what was given to him feels not just meaningful, but necessary. “This music has given me the freedom to express myself in such a glorious way,” he says. “I want to pass that joy on.”

For those hearing Joe Gransden for the first time, he hopes one thing rises above the rest — that they feel his love for the music. That they sense they’ve been taken somewhere memorable. Somewhere honest. After all, when the final note fades, it’s not just about the sound. It’s about the life behind it.

Long before awards, standing ovations, and a decades-spanning career from St. Louis to Atlanta, Karla Harris was a shy fifth grader handed her first solo. She still remembers the moment.

Growing up, music poured from a well worn stack of albums in her parents’ home Nancy Wilson, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, The 5th Dimension. She listened closely, absorbing not just melody but meaning. The phrasing. The ache. The joy. The stories tucked between the notes.

But it was her grade school music teacher who gently pushed her forward. Giving a timid young girl a solo could have gone either way. Instead, it changed everything. “Even though I was shy,” Harris recalls, “I felt the song somehow connect with the audience.”

That connection, that electric awareness that something invisible had passed between singer and listener was potent. It was the beginning of an artistic identity rooted not in volume or virtuosity, but in communication.

Years later, in her twenties, another pivotal lesson would reshape her understanding of what singing truly requires. A songwriter invited her to demo one of his songs her first professional studio experience. Determined to impress, Harris focused on perfection. Clean notes. Exact phrasing. Control. It wasn’t working.

The songwriter stopped her and offered a piece of advice that would stay with her forever: “You’ve got to sing the story. It’s not about sounding perfect.”

That shift from perfection to presence unlocked something deeper. Harris began to understand that jazz, and any meaningful music, demands openness. It asks the artist to bring lived experience into the room heartbreak, hope, doubt, triumph. The highs and lows of being fully human. That honesty is what listeners now recognize immediately in her performances. There is clarity in her tone, yes but more importantly, there is truth. She doesn’t simply sing lyrics; she inhabits them.

Jazz, with its delicate balance of structure and spontaneity, gives Harris the perfect vehicle for that expression. Each performance begins with a roadmap, but the beauty lies in the detours. A phrase stretches a bit longer. A dynamic softens. A musical conversation veers unexpectedly into brilliance. “There’s nothing like catching that wave of creativity, and when it happens, the audience feels it. In those moments, they aren’t observers. They’re part of the band."

Beyond performance, Harris’s devotion to jazz extends into mentorship and advocacy. As a teacher, she witnesses transformation in real time. Jazz, she believes, cultivates far more than musicianship, it builds confidence, creativity, self-awareness, and connection. Watching students discover their voices reignites her own curiosity and courage. Teaching pushes her, too, to grow and step beyond comfort.

When she was named a 2025 Jazz Hero, the recognition felt both humbling and communal. So many musicians and educators labor tirelessly to sustain the art form. For Harris, the award is less a personal accolade and more a reflection of the vibrant community beside her. Still, at the center of it all remains that original goal: connection.

If someone hears Karla Harris for the first time, she hopes they forget the noise of everyday life for a while, they feel lifted. That the music moves something inside. That they leave lighter than they arrived.

And if she could whisper advice back to that shy fifth grader? “Say yes. Do the thing that scares you. Ask. Seek mentors. We’re going to grow into this thing we love to do.” Decades later, she has done exactly that and the story is still unfolding.

More Reasons to SMILE

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ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side— they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under realworld conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit:  InquiringChef.com

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Tiles, Talk, Friendly Competition

In a world where so much connection happens through screens, something refreshingly old school is bringing people back around the table. It’s Mahjong. What was once considered a niche pastime is quickly becoming one of the area’s most talked-about social games. Elizabeth Pellegrom and Carly Hankins, co-owners of Le Mahj Club, are based in Alpharetta, but their lessons and events regularly draw players from Roswell, Milton, and across Metro Atlanta.

“We both grew up playing a lot of card and board games, so when we were introduced to Mahjong, we instantly fell in love,” Elizabeth shared. “We enjoy the strategy of the game, but

what we love even more is how it brings people together around a table for some friendly competition. We started teaching friends who wanted to learn, and it quickly became clear that sharing our passion and helping others discover the game is something we truly love!”

For those unfamiliar with it, Carly explains, “Mahjong is a tile-based strategy game played around a table, where participants build winning hands by collecting and discarding tiles. The game blends elements of skill, pattern recognition, and chance and is as much about social connection as it is gameplay, making it a timeless pastime enjoyed across generations.”

That social element is a big reason it’s growing so quickly. “Part of Mahjong’s rise comes from a shift toward more social, screen-free activities,” Carly says. “The game is interactive, a little competitive, and naturally brings people together around the table. With more lessons and social groups popping up, the game feels approachable and the accessibility is fueling its popularity.”

For beginners, the learning curve can look overwhelming, but Elizabeth reassures newcomers: “the number of hands that can be played from the National Mahjong League card! At first glance, it looks overwhelming, but we teach that you’re not memorizing everything, you’re learning how to recognize patterns and narrow your focus. Once players understand the framework, the card becomes a helpful guide rather than something intimidating.”

Beyond gameplay, it’s the connection that keeps people coming back. “Mahjong brings people together because it gives them a reason to sit down, talk, and spend real time with each other,” Carly explains.

If you’ve been curious but hesitant, Carly offers this reassurance: “The hardest part is just signing up! Mahjong can look a little overwhelming from the outside, but lessons are designed for beginners and you don’t need to know anything before you walk in. We provide all materials needed so all you have to do is show up!”

With beginner lessons, strategy sessions, open play, and private events now available, one thing is clear: Mahjong isn’t just a game. It’s quickly becoming a community. To learn more, visit lemahjclub.com or email lemahjclub@gmail.com.

How Mahjong Is Turning Game Night Into the New Way to Connect

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Please join Friends of Bulloch, Inc. at the

MasqueradeMagnolia Ball

May 16, 2026

Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

The mission of this year’s Magnolia Ball fundraiser is the continued restoration of our beloved Bulloch Hall, the childhood home of Mittie Bulloch, mother of President Theodore Roosevelt.

Every year thousands of visitors come to Bulloch Hall and this creates wear and tear on this 1839 National Registry Home. It is our honor to help maintain it.

Many thanks as your contributions preserve Roswell history.