Smyrna Vinings, GA July 2024

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Finding Joy in Unplanned Moments . . .

Dear Readers,

As a multitasking mom of two busy boys, I know all too well the juggling act of family, career, and personal interests. It's tempting to get caught up in the whirlwind of schedules and checklists, valuing only those endeavors with a clearly defined outcome. But I've learned that prioritizing efficiency above all else can leave us feeling unfulfilled and disconnected.

We must make space for spontaneity, for trying something new, and for embracing the delightful unknown. It's in those unstructured, free-flowing moments that we forge deeper bonds, cultivate lasting friendships, and build trust with those around us.

I'll never forget the time my family embarked on a spur-of-the-moment day trip, only to find ourselves lost in an uncharted small town. Instead of frustration, we embraced the adventure, wandering through quaint shops and stumbling upon a delightful family-run bakery. Over steaming mugs of hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies, we connected in a way that structured activities seldom allow, creating cherished memories that still bring us joy.

In recent months, I've been reflecting on our family dynamic and the activities that bring us fulfillment. While screens and technology have their place, we've found ourselves craving more adventures and explorations, big or small. Sometimes it's as simple as a living room board game night or discovering a new hiking trail. Other times, it's venturing out to a new part of town in search of a cool diner or finally booking that fun-filled trip we've been talking about.

With this issue, we hope to inspire you to embrace exploration and prioritize time away from the relentless demands of your daily grind. Lose yourself in a captivating book, wander aimlessly along a scenic trail, or finally plan that vacation you've been putting off. Make room for the things that truly matter, even if they don't fit neatly into your calendar.

I encourage you to join me in cherishing life's unplanned moments and the connections they foster.

Warmly,

STACEY SCOTT, EDITOR

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Burke Scott | burke.scott@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stacey Scott | stacey.scott@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT

Ingrid Preda | ingrid.preda@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Becca McCoy, Jennifer & John Milburn, Sean O’Keefe, Stacey Scott

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Seth Akins, Liz Erikson and Hayworth PR, Becca McCoy, Chris Lawery

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

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High-Quality Roofing Services in Atlanta since 1992

At Alliance Roofing, we’re dedicated to doing amazing work - no settling - no corner-cutting - no flimsy materials. Just high-quality roofs. We offer a 15-year workmanship warranty, ensuring your safety and happiness. We give you several options to align with your budget, and we also have no-money-down financing options so you can sleep soundly knowing your family is protected.

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We at Mezza Luna believe an intimate atmosphere in the right location, personal and attentive service, and great company is what separates a delicious dinner from an unforgettable experience. Our handmade dishes accompanied with exclusively selected Italian wines and amazing staff represent the core of Italian culture.

Our culinary team creates weekly featured items such as off menu dessert, pasta, fish and meat dishes. Authentic and freshly cooked Italian meals with the freshest ingredients, accompanied by high

city scene

1: Jack Lawery has a “TIRE-riffic” time at the annual Smyrna Elementary School field day! 2: Hats off to these Campbell High School graduates -- Class of 2024! 3: Anna Joy Ryder gets a sneak preview of Smyrna’s new speakeasy -- Propaganda! 4: The staff of A+ Pediatric Dentistry of Atlanta celebrates their 13th anniversary dinner at 101 Steak. 5: Local artist, Melissa Payne, inspired creativity at KOS Grown Up Camp. 6: These friends wrap up another school year with a Mellow Mushroom pizza party in Vinings! 7: The first Blanket Concert of 2024 with the Bonaventure Quartet featuring Amy Pike was a success! @STACEYCSCOTT @CHRISLAWERY

8: Mayor Norton, Principal Havis and CMS Foundation Board Members at The Quad ribbon cutting ceremony. 9: With the help of several community leaders, The Quad at Campbell Middle School has officially opened! 10: Passing the Torch with Pride: Dr. Havis welcomes Dr. Mitchell to the Campbell Middle School family! 11: City Lifestyle Magazine team unites at Culinary Dropout to support Hop on a Cure! 12: Family time and creativity are in bloom at Sea Love Atlanta. 13: Crafting special memories with candles and flowers at Sea Love Atlanta on Mother’s Day! 14: Burke Scott with John Hopkins of Zac Brown Band supporting Hop on a Cure to fight ALS.

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SIP Social Atlanta offers a unique dry mobile bar experience to elevate your next event. With customizable SIP carts dispensing up to 7 kegs of beer, wine, cocktails, and mocktails, they cater to weddings, showers, parties, corporate events, and golf outings. Contact sipsocialatlanta@gmail.com for more details and follow @lisabmccray to see some of the fun events they've hosted.

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Cumberland Counseling Centers' Expansion Brings New Expertise

Cumberland Counseling Centers expands with a new Vinings location, offering diverse expertise. Emily Hinds, LPC, focuses on couples, African American mental health, and spirituality, while Vanessa Joseph, APC, specializes in trauma and men's mental health. Led by Dr. Marcuetta Sims, their team of 12 clinicians across 4 locations provides comprehensive counseling services. Explore their offerings at Cumberlandcenters.org

Wanderlust Captured: "Explore" Exhibit by Smyrna Arts Council

"Explore: A Special Exhibit of Wanderlust" invites you to embark on a visual journey curated by the Smyrna Arts Council and the City of Smyrna. Featuring works by Leigh Pursley and Becca McCoy, this free exhibit captures the spirit of wanderlust and is on display at the Smyrna Community Center and City Hall until September. Immerse yourself in the artists' exploration through their creations by visiting during open hours. Visit smyrnaartscouncil.com for more details.

by @smyrnaartscouncil

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Community Fun Begins with Smyrna Parks & Rec

Explore all the exciting events Smyrna Parks & Recreation has to offer! Lots of fun activities are planned in the coming months, including a Family Paint & Sip in August and Date Night Paint & Sip in September. Registration for both opens on July 15th! Visit www.smyrnaga.gov/ departments/departments/parks-rec reation and follow them on social media so you don't miss any opportunities for fun in the community. Join in and make great memories!

Embrace Summer Pain-Free with East West Spine and Rehab

Summer beckons us outdoors to savor Smyrna and Vinings' delights, but don't let pain or discomfort hinder your enjoyment. At East West Spine and Rehab Clinic, located at 1265 Windy Hill Rd SE #100, Smyrna, GA, our compassionate chiropractors offer personalized, evidence-based treatments. From chronic back pain to auto injuries, our dedicated team led by Dr. Ara develops tailored plans to achieve optimal health and well-being. Call (770) 504-6066 to embrace the season to the fullest.

Clean Eats, Green Spaces at Good Kitchen + Market

Embrace Smyrna's green spaces this summer by first fueling up on the clean, wholesome fare at Good Kitchen + Market (2750 Atlanta Road SE, Suite 110). This neighborhood cafe prioritizes locally-sourced, nutrient-dense dishes to nourish your body.  Stop in and dine with us or borrow a picnic blanket and savor your meal at the Village Green's inviting greenspace. Eat well to enjoy nature at its finest!

Photography by @goodkitchensmyrna

LEAN IN AND EXPLORE THE MAGIC

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA MCCOY

As the common proverb says, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Leigh Pursley’s embodiment of this mantra manifested her remarkable life, personally and creatively. At age 25, Leigh was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. “I became depressed and stuck,” Leigh says. “In the last, like, three years getting back out there - it’s brought my art and my life to a whole other level.” Three years ago, she got a phone call from her cousin, Cal, to see

if she wanted to join him on the trek to Everest Base Camp. Leigh said yes without hesitation - but asked him to give her two years to prepare. Her energy, productivity, and physical shape were greatly diminished as she struggled to adjust to life with a chronic condition. But two years later, on May 6th, 2023, at 1:45pm Nepalese time, Leigh and Cal completed the trek. “And this was just the beginning. No one was going to say that I couldn’t accomplish something.”

Her newest series of paintings, “Lean into the Magic,” is one of her most personal, and pulls inspiration from her newfound love of hiking and backpacking. “Travel in general, even when you’re not backpacking, gives you this free feeling, and I think it’s a big part of how I create.” Leigh has always loved nature and the outdoors. “Waking up on the trail and watching the sunrise is my biggest color inspiration.” Then she layers in sounds, textures, and the changing light. “Almost all of my paintings consist of fifty to hundreds of layers. Each layer is almost a battle I have, from letting things stay and letting things go.” Leigh Pursley leans into her magic, one day, one step, one layer at a time.

Above: Leigh Pursley at Everest Base Camp. “Pushing into the discomfort… that’s where the magic is. I find something about myself that I need to work on, or I find where I’ve grown. And I think that’s the same when it comes to every art piece.” Below: Abstract painting of Everest in process. Leigh’s palette is inspired by the five colors of the prayer flags, each of which represents an element, and together, signify balance. Art by Leigh Pursley is currently on display in “Explore,” the Community Art Exhibit presented by Smyrna Arts Council and the City of Smyrna. Visit smyrnaartscouncil.com to learn more. To commission or connect with Leigh Pursley, visit artofleighpursley.com, and follow her on Instagram at @art_of_leighpursley.

Running and Sporting Goods Store

What is a Run Specialty Store?

A run specialty store caters specifically to runners and walkers who are gearing up for races, whether it's a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, marathon, or even a triathlon. At FullScope Sports, we understand the unique needs of athletes at every level and offer a tailored experience to ensure you have the perfect shoes for your goals.

Why Choose FullScope Sports?

Expert Fittings: Whether you're training for a race or simply enjoy a daily walk with your furry friend, our knowledgeable staff will fit you with the best shoes to meet your specific needs.

Top-Quality Products: We offer a wide selection of top brands and the latest in running and walking gear to keep you at the top of your game.

Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your fitness goals and provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve them.

We are Open: 10AM – 6PM Monday - Saturday

Your Journey Starts Here!

ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SETH AKINS, BECCA MCCOY, STACEY SCOTT

Explore Live, Play,

Residents of the Smyrna and Vinings areas are fortunate to have an amazing array of outdoor spaces, shopping, dining, and entertainment options right in our own backyard. From riverfront trails to a lively mixed-use development and charming downtown districts, there’s so much to explore close to home. Here’s a local’s guide to experiencing all that our vibrant community has to offer.

If you haven’t yet discovered the Riverline, add it to the top of your list. This 100-acre greenway follows the scenic Chattahoochee River for over 7 miles, winding through Smyrna, Vinings, and beyond. With multiple access points near our neighborhoods, it’s easy to hop on the paved trails for a relaxing riverside walk, run, or bike ride. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for great blue herons, deer, and other wildlife that call this riparian area home.

At the gateway to Smyrna, you’ll find the ever-popular Battery Atlanta. While it’s a major destination for Atlanta Braves games at Truist Park, the full 90-acre development beckons locals with its wide array of shops, restaurants, living spaces, and the lively Plaza central green. From community events to simply enjoying an alfresco happy hour or meal, the Battery provides a gathering place right in our backyard.

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Don’t overlook the wonderful offerings in downtown Smyrna too. The Village Green area channels a small-town vibe with its locally-owned coffee shops, cafes and more. Be sure to check out popular events like Food Truck Tuesdays and the various festivals and markets that take place at the Market Village throughout the year. Parks like the new installments by Smyrna Community Center, North Cooper Lake Park, and Taylor-Brawner Park offer family fun, as well as plenty of green space to relax.

Just on the other side of the river, Vinings beckons with its upscale Vinings Jubilee shopping district full of specialty boutiques, home goods stores, salons and day spas, plus a diverse collection of restaurants to satisfy any craving. Grab a coffee and take a leisurely stroll admiring the brick paths and flowering shrubs. The historic Old Vinings Inn is a charming spot to sip cocktails or enjoy a lovely meal.

We’re also lucky to have units of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area woven through our area. Take advantage of the hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and canoe/kayak putins providing easy access to enjoy the great outdoors along the river corridor. Don’t miss the Island Ford Visitor Center to learn more about the natural habitats surrounding our neighborhoods. With so much just outside our front doors, there’s always something new to experience as Smyrna and Vinings residents. So make a point to play tourist in your own hometown and uncover the rich amenities that make our community such a wonderful place to call home.

ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ ERIKSON AND HAYWORTH PR

Lights, Camera, Trilith Guesthouse

Rising triumphally from the farmland and pastures of Fayette County, Trilith Guesthouse is the epitome of global style and Southern graciousness. The hotel’s sleek design, midcentury modern furniture, welcoming living room, and library, all help to transport the arriving guest into a modern version of Hollywood’s past just waiting to be awakened. As if there for a generation, Trilith Guesthouse anchors the town, creating a lasting experience designed to illuminate the storyteller in all of us.

Thoughtful touches throughout the hotel and impeccable service are hallmarks of Trilith Guesthouse.  The hotel’s timeless charm crafts moments of joy that celebrate life’s special

Hollywood in our backyard; the ultimate movie land staycation!

occasions, enriching lives one heartfelt gesture at a time. From the welcome cocktail to the perfectly appointed, well designed guestrooms and suites; this hotel is the definition of easy, luxury accommodations.

There are touches of Hollywood everywhere. Artfully appointed, Hollywood themed guestrooms boast comfortable and cozy furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities, each room offering a tranquil retreat for guests.

Prologue Dining & Drinks, like the hotel, draws on our Southern roots, blending classic flavors with a contemporary flair in cleverly designed New York styled, fine dining atmosphere.

From locally sourced ingredients to exquisite plating, Prologue is a culinary journey that celebrates our favorite dishes allowing Chef Thomas Parker to rise above the ordinary and his team to shine brightly.

Perched high atop the heart of the Town at Trilith is Oliver Twist, a rooftop speakeasy where expert mixologists blend premium spirits with artisanal ingredients to create unforgettable cocktails bursting with flavor and sophistication.  A sophisticated, up scale pub grub menu awaits anyone looking for a fanciful nosh with their libation!

The Town at Trilith itself truly defies description; there is an extraordinary sense of excellence everywhere.  Whether strolling through the main shopping plaza or enjoying an evening walk through the European inspired, technologically advanced, and environmentally sustainable estates; the Town at Trilith experience is like no other imaginable.  It was as if the whole town was created just for me and my enjoyment.

The town’s diverse culinary landscape promises something for every palate. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, each bite and sip embodies the spirit of community,

creativity, and culinary excellence, leaving guests eager to return for another delicious adventure.

Whether visiting for a weekend or making Trilith Guesthouse your home while filming your latest movie; the hotel and the town itself has a personalized experience just for you!

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Introducing the Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Travel Club

ARTICLE BY JOHN & JENNIFER MILBURN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Embark on a journey of luxury and adventure with the highly anticipated launch of the Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Travel Club! Created with a vision to bring together our vibrant local community, this exclusive club offers members the unparalleled opportunity to explore new captivating destinations, forge meaningful connections with like-minded travelers, and indulge in meticulously curated experiences where every detail is planned for you. It’s free to join; just visit www.UnitedTravelLLC.com/TravelClub and complete our online registration to become a member of the Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Travel Club.

So, how does this exceptional travel club work? As a privileged member, you’ll gain access to coveted early VIP booking privileges, allowing you to reserve your spot on our extraordinary trips before they’re made available to the general public. This ensures you never miss out on the journeys you desire most. But the perks don’t stop there – you’ll also enjoy exclusive invitations to special local events and gatherings tailored just for Travel Club members and their guests, adding an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie beyond your globetrotting adventures.

Prepare to be swept away by the luxurious accommodations awaiting you at the world’s finest establishments that we, as industry-leading experts, have handpicked. From opulent resorts to charming boutique hotels, every detail has been meticulously curated to ensure an unparalleled experience that caters to your every need and desire. But the true magic lies in

Jenn & John Milburn

John and Jenn Milburn, the founders of United Travel, LLC, are industry veterans with a wealth of expertise and a passion for curating unforgettable travel experiences. With years of hands-on experience in the luxury travel industry, they possess an unparalleled understanding of the intricate details that elevate a vacation from ordinary to extraordinary.

the immersive journeys we’ve designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of each destination’s rich culture, history, and natural wonders.

With the Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Travel Club, you can bid farewell to the stress and hassle of planning – our dedicated team at United Travel will handle every detail, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience from the moment you depart until your triumphant return. Whether you’re an intrepid solo traveler, a couple seeking romantic escapades, or a group of friends eager to create lasting memories, we offer flexible options to suit your unique needs, promising luxury, exceptional value, and unforgettable moments with every trip.

As for destinations, prepare to be dazzled by a diverse array of options that cater to every taste and interest. From cultural immersion trips that transport you to the heart of ancient civilizations to adrenaline-fueled adventure excursions, decadent culinary tours, and idyllic beach getaways, the world is your oyster. With United Travel’s unparalleled expertise in curating exceptional travel experiences, maximizing value, and providing personalized support throughout the planning and travel process, you can trust that you’re in the most capable hands.

Ready to join the club and unlock a world of extraordinary adventures? Simply complete our easy online registration process by visiting www.UnitedTravelLLC.com/ TravelClub to become a member of the Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Travel Club. Your next unforgettable journey awaits – don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the world in unparalleled luxury and style with like-minded individuals from our vibrant community.

SENIOR CARE & HOME

Australian Variscite in Sterling Pendant

Smyrna educator and explorer Janet Rau turned a lifelong fascination into a thriving hobby.

Set In Stone

Janet Rau has always collected rocks.  Safely nestled in a jewelry box are quartz she found at the top of Mount Albert in Colorado when she was 8-years old. They are stored alongside a piece of the volcanoes in Iceland, shale from outside her cabin in South Dakota, barnacled pottery from the Harbor of Caesarea-Maritima, and a collection of gembones – agatized dinosaur bones.

Janet, whose degree is in history with a minor in archeology, is especially fond of “the collecting and exploring – like, what did our world look like to create the things that now we have, right? It’s just such an interesting process.”

Silversmithing is a more recent pursuit, introduced to her as a form of art therapy while serving as a full-time caregiver. With the right tools (“My dad always used to say, “Don’t let your

tools hold you back.””), an encyclopedic knowledge of stones, and relationships with lapidary artists all over the world, Janet created a small business charmingly named by her students: Rau Rocks.

“I started making jewelry mainly so that I could carry my rocks around with me,” Janet says, and she is equally enthusiastic about custom work that allows others to do the same. She’s created heirloom pieces and helped commemorate special occasions, and at the heart of every piece is knowing the stone’s story. “It’s so amazingly interesting, how we use resources, how we look at things in environmentally appropriate ways.”

Rau Rocks is available for commissions / Online shop at raurocks.com / Follow Rau Rocks on Instagram at @raurocks

“I started making jewelry mainly so that I could carry my rocks around with me.”

ARTICLE AND

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BECCA MCCOY

Lopez Bros Landscaping not only

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Celebrating Parks and Recreation Month

ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS LAWERY

Every July, we celebrate Park and Recreation Month to recognize the vital role parks and recreation professionals play in building strong, vibrant communities across the nation. This year’s theme, “Where You Belong,” highlights how park and recreation departments foster a sense of belonging by providing welcoming spaces and inclusive programming for all ages and abilities.

The campaign honors the over 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals, along with the hundreds of thousands of part-time workers and volunteers, who maintain parks and facilities while creating essential community services and programs. Their efforts ensure public spaces are safe, accessible, and nurturing meaningful connections.

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Here in Smyrna, our Parks and Recreation Department embodies this spirit of community engagement. They not only maintain our parks and recreational amenities, but provide entertaining programs that bring neighbors together, like the Blanket Concert Series, Lunch on the Lawn, Movie in the Park, Smyrna Handmade Market, and Summer Camps. By encouraging participation, they cultivate real community bonds.

Our local park offerings continue expanding to meet resident needs. The Village Green features new additions like a splash pad, playground, and stage. This spring, North Cooper Lake Park unveiled a pavilion with built-in grills able to accommodate 60-80 people - perfect for gatherings. Even more new parks are in the works to enhance our community spaces. During Park and Recreation Month, get out and explore all that Smyrna Parks & Recreation has to offer! Discover a new park, attend an event, or just spend a relaxing afternoon outdoors. Smyrna Parks & Recreation also invites everyone to show appreciation for our local parks by sharing photos enjoying the facilities and programs on social media using #WhereYouBelong and #SmyrnaParks. Let’s unite to celebrate the ways these spaces create that vital sense of belonging for all.

“Our local park offerings continue expanding to meet resident needs.”

The Most Desirable Book

ARTICLE BY WALTER DEAN

Financier and philanthropist J.P. Morgan, a man well acquainted with sumptuous pleasures ordinarily reserved for Roman Caesars, famously remarked that if you must ask the cost of a yacht such as his, then you are clearly not able to afford it.

JONQUILITY, A COLUMN OF TRIVIAL MUSINGS.

“WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE A COLLECTION OF BOOKS YOU’VE ALREADY READ, OR BOOKS OF ADVENTURE AND DISCOVERY YOU HAVE YET TO ENJOY?”

He also had a pretty snappy library at his residence in Hartford, Connecticut, a visitor at which, maybe even the same man budgeting for a yacht, challenged Morgan whether he had read all the thousands of books neatly arranged, less perhaps by the Dewey Decimal System than by aesthetic sensibilities. ‘Of course not,’ Morgan is said to have responded. ‘Would you rather have a collection of books you’ve already read, or books of adventure and discovery you have yet to enjoy?’

In our own hamlet here in Georgia, one need not be either a financier or a philanthropist to luxuriate in J.P. Morgan’s undiscovered adventures, or even have a library card for that matter, and for substantially less than the cost of a yacht. Because these unread books house themselves in little blue boxes on pedestals all over town, no mansion need apply either. Though they are free for the taking, a trade with an already-read book would be good manners, returning the hoe sharper than when you borrowed it, as my mother would say.

Organized and curated by the non-profit Little Free Library (littlefreelibrary.org), I have visited a random handful of these boxes with the question that the alleged J.P. Morgan visitor may not have had the temerity to ask:

“Is it possible to divine the differences in taste and daily lives between our neighborhoods by assessing the titles of these books and the frequency of trades?”

Of course, the answer is no. But have some fun with trying anyway, perhaps beginning with visits to those in the photographs. Consider ending your tour with the munchkin-sized library box on ground level at the entrance of The Bunny Hive in Smyrna Market Village. Have a bite and an iced coffee at Café Lucia next door while you crack open your Most Desirable Book.

Check out this link to locate library boxes near you: https://littlefreelibrary.org/map/

Supporting Our Community’s Heroes

Join us in supporting our community’s heroes as we foster a strong, united partnership between our dedicated public safety personnel and the community they tirelessly serve. By building bridges of trust and cooperation, we ensure a safer, more connected neighborhood for all. Your involvement and support are crucial in helping us provide the resources and recognition our first responders deserve. Together, let’s encourage and strengthen this vital bond, making our community stronger and safer for everyone.

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Whether you are seeking relief from everyday aches and pains or looking to maintain a healthy, active life, we can help.

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A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 4TH

Atlanta’s Peachtree Road Race, a Fourth of July Tradition

Lenox Square Mall -- 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 | 6:30 AM

An iconic Fourth of July tradition, the AJC Peachtree Road Race ranks among the world’s most popular races. Organized by Atlanta Track Club, it draws runners globally to soak in the festive atmosphere along its beloved city course ending in Piedmont Park. Coveted finisher’s T-shirts await all ages and paces participating in this Atlanta event, celebrating fitness and community amidst Independence Day revelry.

JULY 4TH

Star-Spangled Fun -July 4th Celebration at Marietta Square

Marietta Square -- 39-75 E Park Square, Marietta, GA | 10:00 AM

Join City of Marietta’s Fourth in the Park Celebration for a day filled with activities. Enjoy a parade, live concerts, arts and crafts, food, kids zone, and grand fireworks finale. The Let Freedom Ring Parade begins at 10 a.m. Live music starts at noon, leading to a concert from 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at dark.

JULY 12TH

Experience Songwriting Magic: Songwriters Room at KOS Inc.

KOS, Inc. -- 1125 Concord Road, Suite B; Smyrna, GA 30080 | 7:30 PM

Delve into the profound art of songwriting at the Songwriters Room on July 12th. Local musicians will perform their original compositions and offer insight into the creative process that birthed the lyrics. This event promises a thoughtful exploration of the motivations and creativity behind crafting a song at KOS Inc. in Smyrna. Visit kossmyrna.org for details.

JULY 13TH

Smyrna Summer Concert

Featuring All the Locals & Uptown Funk!

Village Green Park -- 1250 Powder Springs ST SE Smyrna, Georgia 30080 | 7:00 PM

Plan to be downtown from 7-10 pm for a music-filled night featuring All the Locals and Uptown Funk. Free admission!  All the Locals bring soulful, rock 'n' roll vibes, while Uptown Funk delivers Bruno Mars hits. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers; no tents or open flames allowed. Non-smoking event.

JULY 24TH

Mayor Norton Delivers Annual State of Smyrna Address

Smyrna Community Center -- 1250 Powder Springs St. SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | 5:30 PM

Mayor Derek Norton, will deliver his 4th State of the City, highlighting Smyrna's downtown revitalization momentum, reviewing 2023 milestones, and unveiling future plans for our thriving Atlanta suburb. Re-elected in 2023, Mayor Norton champions Smyrna's growth on local boards, and is deeply engaged in schools and community to propel Smyrna forward. This free event requires registration at https://web.cobbchamber.org/ events/Smyrna-Area-Council-State-ofthe-City--11830/details.

JULY 25TH

Smyrna's Ultimate Summer Send-Off: Back to School Bash!

Chuck Camp Park -- 2270 Benson Poole Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30082 | 11:00 AM

The Back to School Bash is a free family funfest extravaganza hosted by Smyrna's finest - Fire Department, Parks & Rec, Library, and Keep Smyrna Beautiful. From 11am-1pm, Chuck Camp Park transforms into a kid's paradise with bounce houses galore, touch-a-truck, tasty lunch options, and fun giveaways. One last summer hurrah before hitting the books!

realty report

SERVING AUTHENTIC SOUTHERN FLAVORS FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY

Old South Bar-B-Q,

A Community Staple

ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“Our recipes and decor remain unchanged since 1968, ensuring Old South BBQ feels like home for everyone.”

In a world where trends come and go, Old South Bar-B-Q has withstood the test of time, serving as a cherished culinary landmark in Smyrna for over five decades. Smyrna’s oldest operating restaurant was established in 1968 by Helen and Jim Llewallyn, and has become an enduring symbol of Southern hospitality and authentic barbecue cuisine.

Joy Llewallyn, the current owner and operator, carries on the legacy of her parents with unwavering dedication. “My Daddy always called it ‘Momma’s Baby,’” she reminisces, emphasizing the restaurant’s roots as a female-owned and operated business. From the very beginning, every aspect of Old South Bar-B-Q was a labor of love. Her mother, Helen, was the driving force behind the kitchen, meticulously crafting each dish with love and care, while her father, Jim, designed the menus, logos, and handcrafted the tables and booths that still grace the dining room today.

What sets Old South Bar-B-Q apart are its steadfast commitments to preserving the original recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations. From the tender, fall-off-thebone spare ribs to the succulent pulled or chopped pork, and the lean black angus beef, each dish is a testament to the Llewallyn family’s culinary heritage. The Brunswick stew, a local favorite, and the vinegar-based coleslaw, a tangy delight, are prepared just as Helen Llewallyn did decades ago.

Joy’s husband, Paul Banks, plays a vital role in the daily operations, diligently opening the restaurant each morning and ensuring that every dish is cooked to perfection, embodying the family’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.

While Old South Bar-B-Q has adapted to changing times by introducing new sauces and side dishes like the beloved fried okra, mac-n-cheese bites, and the aptly named “Jimmy’s Hickory Fries” (a nod to a loyal patron), the restaurant’s ambiance remains untouched. Joy has meticulously preserved the decor,

allowing patrons to step back in time and relive cherished memories from their childhood visits.

Step inside, and you’ll be enveloped in a warm, down-home atmosphere where Joy greets each guest like family, oftentimes with a welcoming hug. The walls are adorned with collages of customers, past and present, creating a sense of community and nostalgia that resonates with locals and visitors alike.

Despite facing challenges, such as the recent construction and traffic pattern changes that have impacted accessibility, Joy Llewallyn remains steadfast in her commitment to preserving the legacy of Old South Bar-B-Q. “I love this place,” she says, “it has been a major part of my life for most all my life.” With no immediate succession plan in place, Joy’s dedication to ensuring the restaurant’s future is unwavering, driven by her love for the customers who have become like family over the decades.

Old South Bar-B-Q is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living embodiment of Smyrna’s rich culinary heritage and a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and a passion for serving up delicious Southern comfort food, one plate at a time.

Old South Bar-B-Q 601 Burbank Circle Smyrna, GA 30080 770-435-4215 OldSouthBBQ.com

If heading west from I-75 or Cobb Parkway, take the right lane after Atlanta Road onto the local access road. After the second overpass, make a U-turn. Then, turn right onto Burbank Circle. Old South Bar-B-Q is at the end of Burbank Circle on the left.

Coming from West Cobb, head east on Macland Road to Windy Hill Road. Cross Austell Road and South Cobb Drive, staying in the right lane. Take the local access road; Old South is at the bottom of the hill on the right.

I love Old South and all the

customers!

They have been a huge part of my life and all feel like family to me.