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CONNECTING LEADERS, STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Caring For The Community Atlanta Fibroid Center Marks 20 Years of Advancing Women’s Health

A.G. Rhodes | StillFire Brewing | New Insurance Column!

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CONTENTS V O L . X X I I , N O .1 | J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

FE ATURE

Atlanta Fibroid Center Marks 20 Years of Advancing Women’s Health Through the ongoing dedication of Dr. John Lipman, the Atlanta Fibroid Center recently celebrated 20 years of offering non-invasive treatment of uterine fibroids.

6 SHARPER FOCUS Find out what’s going on throughout Cobb County with our news updates.

10 RECRUITING As the new year begins, small business owners have a prime opportunity to reflect on their growth plans and consider how to effectively build their teams for success in 2026.

12 SENIOR LIVING A.G. Rhodes Cobb stands as a tangible example of what is possible when exceptional care, innovation, and community support come together in service of older adults.

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22 18

14 BUSINESS Suwanee-based StillFire Brewing’s new brewery on the Village Green in Smyrna is scheduled open by the end of February.

18 HEALTH Learn how the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office is advancing community health through sensory inclusion.

28 New Column! INSURANCE SOLUTIONS These things are certain in life: death, taxes, and rising insurance premiums. Isn’t that how the saying goes?

28 30 ABOUT COBB COUNTY Check out this section with important facts and figures about Cobb, as well as services available to homeowners and business owners.

32 FINAL FOCUS They say end-of-year fatigue is normal if you have been putting your best foot forward all year.

ON THE COVER: Dr. John Lipman, founder of the Atlanta Fibroid Center. PHOTO: LARUCHE PHOTO

ATTENTION LEADERS OF COBB! If you’re reading this, chances are you are a local business owner, industry executive, nonprofit leader, civic/government official, a leader in education, or community organizer. You’re an individual who is among Cobb County’s premier influencers. Thus, we offer you an opportunity to share your entrepreneurial insights, your business acumen, and your thought leadership with a Leader Profile in Cobb In Focus. To learn more about our Leader Profile and other advertising possibilities, please contact Publisher Robyn Sobelson at RSobelson@nspmag.com.

FROM THE E D I TO R

A Passion To Serve

Photo by LaRuche Photo

BY CORY SEKINE-PETTITE Have you ever heard the expressions “passion is contagious,” or “infectious enthusiasm?” If you aren’t familiar with these phrases, you’ve certainly been influenced by someone else’s fervidness — perhaps from a teacher, a fitness instructor, a sports fan or athlete, et cetera. Recently, I experienced it in meeting Dr. John Lipman, the subject of our cover feature. After just a few minutes of conversation, it was clear that Dr. Lipman has an insatiable passion for his work at Atlanta Fibroid Center and for the thousands of patients he has helped in his long career of treating symptomatic fibroids. For more than 20 years, he literally has been changing lives. Read our feature beginning on page 22 and see if you aren’t affected by his enthusiasm as well. Speaking of patient care and changing lives, this issue also includes an update from A.G. Rhodes on their new Cobb campus. CEO Deke Cateau and the entire A.G. Rhodes staff truly care for Cobb’s seniors and are continually improving their various properties and programs to provide the best in elder care. See their latest news on page 12. Continuing to focus on local leaders who are changing or improving our community, we thought it was appropriate for this issue to reprint our feature article from last year on the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office’s sensory inclusion programs for individuals with conditions such as autism, dementia, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and other neurological challenges. It’s clear that Sheriff Owens and his team have a passion for changing lives. Read about it beginning on page 18. Someone’s passion for craft beer may not necessarily change lives, but it can be contagious. Just spend a little time with the folks behind StillFire Brewing who are set to open a new taproom and brewery in Smyrna at the end of February. This company’s creative brews and playful marketing are an award-winning combination. Beginning on page 14, StillFire COO Aaron Bisges tells us why Smyrna was chosen for their newest facility.

Contact Cobb in Focus We want to hear from you! Share your story ideas and comments with our editor. Visit cobbinfocus.com or send your suggestions to: cspettite@nspmag.com or New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350

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New South Publishing Inc. PUBLISHER/MANAGING DIRECTOR Robyn Sobelson, PhD VICE PRESIDENT John Hanna ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Barb Curry EDITOR Cory Sekine-Pettite ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amy Meadows GRAPHIC DESIGNER Garon Hart CONTRIBUTORS LaRuche Photo, Photography Meghan Ritchie, Contributor Vicki Abelson, Contributor Kevin DiPetrillo, Contributor Randi Okray, Contributor Jennifer Todd, Contributor PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Megan Willis CIRCULATION Amy Fine PRESIDENT EMERITUS Larry Lebovitz cobbinfocus.com @cobbinfocus facebook.com/cobbinfocus @cobb-in-focus-magazine Cobb in Focus™ is published six times a year by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA, 30350. Direct all editorial queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 100. Direct all circulation queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 130. Direct all advertising queries to Barb Curry at bcurry@nspmag.com. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Material in this publication may not be reprinted without written permission from the publisher. Copyright 2026 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

For advertising inquiries, email bcurry@nspmag.com. 4

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Cobb in Focus: Connecting Leaders, Strengthening Community OUR MISSION For over 20 years, Cobb in Focus has informed, inspired, and connected Cobb County’s most influential business and civic leaders through high-impact content that supports local growth, leadership, and innovation.

FOCUSED EDITORIAL IN EVERY ISSUE Cobb in Focus is the premier publication offering exclusive information, insights, advice, and analysis across the business, government, and nonprofit sectors. Each issue dives into the topics that matter most, including leadership, technology, and community.

BE SEEN IN COBB IN FOCUS To advertise, or learn more about how Cobb in Focus can help your business or organization, contact Barb Curry at bcurry@nspmag.com.

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SHARPER FOCUS Here’s a snapshot of what’s going on in your community.

Cobb Collaborative Awarded $25,000 to Expand Mental Health Initiative Cobb Collaborative, a local partner of the Georgia Family Connection Partnership the leader of a three-county coalition for Resilient Georgia, announced recently the expansion of its Mind Your Mind mental health initiative, following a $25,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta. The initiative helps to raise awareness, promote resiliency, and reduce stigma around mental health issues, particularly in light of increased numbers around the incidences of people reporting high levels of stress, anxiety, and suicide ideation. “We are honored to be awarded this grant to support the vital trauma-informed and resiliency-focused training, resources, and programming that are a part of our Mind Your Mind initiative,” said Irene Barton, Cobb Collaborative Executive Director. “Mental health conditions are on the rise, and suicide is the leading cause of death for Cobb County youth ages 15-24 over the past five years. Clearly there is a need to have important

HF Foods Group Opens Distribution Warehouse in Powder Springs In December, HF Foods Group, a leading distributor of international foodservice solutions to Asian restaurants and other businesses across the United States, celebrated the opening of its newest distribution center in the City of Powder Springs at a ribbon cutting event at the new space within the 20 West Intermodal facility. “We are excited to launch our newest distribution center for our Atlanta operations in Powder Springs,” said Felix Lin, President and CEO of HF Foods. “This strategic expansion was driven by increased market demand that caused us to outgrow our previous Atlanta facility. Powder Springs provides an ideal location with its central positioning and direct access to major transportation corridors, enabling us to deliver enhanced service to our existing customer base while substantially increasing our capacity to serve thousands of additional restaurants across the Southeast region.” The Mayor of Powder Springs, Al Thurman, along with city council and economic development members of the City 6

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conversations and grow our understanding of how to recognize the warning signs of mental health conditions and how to build protective factors. Now more than ever, it is critical to connect our community with knowledge and resources to help improve positive outcomes for our County’s children and families,” she continued. The year-long grant will support: · A series of mental health trainings including Community Resiliency Model, Connections Matter, Mandated Reporter, Trauma 101, Brain 101, and suicide prevention training. · Bilingual digital information, containing crisis line contact information and links to mental health statistics, blogs, tools, and supportive content. · Townhall-style quarterly convenings addressing behavioral health needs, issues, and resources in partnership with Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid. · A social media campaign to direct residents to digital content, provide encouragement to those struggling with or caring for loved ones with mental health issues, and inform residents of local mental health events. Other social media platforms will continue sharing information as well. For more information about the mental health initiative and other work at Cobb Collaborative, visit cobbcollaborative.org.

of Powder Springs attended the event. “The City of Powder Springs is delighted to welcome HF Foods to our community,” said Mayor Thurman. “Families are moving to Powder Springs at a rapid pace, and we’re thrilled to partner with established companies like HF Foods that bring quality employment opportunities to meet our area’s growing workforce needs.” The distribution center is located at 4795 Innovative Highway, Powder Springs, GA 30127, and officially opened operations in December. The facility currently employs over 50 individuals, with plans to expand operations throughout 2026.

20 West Intermodal facility

Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter Builds and Donates Chad’s Bracket Wagons

City of Smyrna to Redevelop Downtown

Members of the Fielding Lewis Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, marked the recent DAR National Day of Service by rolling up their sleeves to build nine bright red Chad’s Bracket wagons, which are specialized hospital wagons designed to make life safer and easier for young hospital patients. This service project took on special meaning as DAR volunteers worked side by side with Roger Leggett, the founder of Chad’s Bracket. Of the nine wagons they built, the Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter funded two of them and then joined Leggett in delivering them to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta new Arthur M. Blank Hospital. “Working with Mr. Leggett to build and donate these wagons was an incredible experience,” said Chapter Regent Melissa Tanner. “And seeing the comfort and joy they bring to children in the hospital was absolutely unforgettable.” The Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter also presented Leggett with the Chad’s Bracket Wagons National Society DAR Community Service Award for his extraordinary contribution and dedication to helping children and families nationwide through Chad’s Bracket. This award was formally presented at a recent Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter meeting held at the Marietta Country Club. Leggett’s mission began 14 years ago during a hospital visit to check on his 4-year-old granddaughter at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. As he and his son, Chad, an EMT, walked down the hospital hallway, they saw a young mother struggling to maneuver her child, medical equipment, and tangled IV lines into a hospital elevator. Leggett recalled his son turning to him and saying, “There has to be a better way to do that.” Weeks later, Chad died of heatstroke at the age of 24. During devastating loss, Leggett held onto that moment with his son. Honoring his son’s compassion, he developed a customized IV-pole bracket with help from the Chattahoochee Technical College welding program. This bracket allowed IV poles to be attached directly to the red wagons, creating a way that allows young hospital patients to move more safely and comfortably. More than 1,700 of the Chad’s Bracket wagons have since been built and donated to children’s hospitals across the nation. Leggett’s lifetime of service, however, began long before Chad’s Bracket. He served more than 20 years as a firefighter and built a distinguished career at Lockheed Martin in Cobb County. For the Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter, the combination of hands-on service with Chad’s Bracket and the chance to honor the man behind the mission made this year’s DAR National Day of Service especially meaningful. “These red wagons may look simple at first glance, but for a child in the hospital, they bring comfort, increased safety, and a little bit of joy,” said Chapter Regent Melissa Tanner. “Seeing the smiles and relief they bring to the children was a powerful reminder of why volunteer service matters.” The DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical women’s service organization founded in 1890, whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. DAR members participate in volunteer service projects to promote patriotism, education, and historic preservation.

The City of Smyrna recently completed the public comment portion of its downtown redevelopment plans, which includes a splashpad water feature and other recreational areas for children, a parking deck, and the new StillFire Brewing facility (see our article on page 14). City officials tell us that in March 2024, the City and Smyrna First Baptist Church reached an agreement for the City, through the Downtown Development Authority, to purchase the existing church campus located on Church Street that also allows for the church to purchase property owned by the Development Authority on Atlanta Road between the Reed House and South State Bank and relocate there. The nine-acre church campus site offers a rare opportunity for Smyrna that any city would welcome — a chance to expand the downtown area and include uses like new retail, restaurants, parking, housing, and greenspace. The new space will be shaped from extensive public input which took place during 2025 with most of the public input completed by the close of 2025. The church is relocating close to the city center with new facilities for their mission. As part of this agreement, the City will maintain the 1924 stone chapel for public use. The church is continuing to lease the existing church campus from the City for two years while they construct their new facility. The public input portion of the process included three community workshops (public meetings), stakeholder roundtables, a dedicated website with online activities (downtownsmyrnaredevelopment.com), two online surveys at project milestones along with pop-ups, street stalls, and kiosks at Smyrna community events.

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SHARPER FOCUS Here’s a snapshot of what’s going on in your community.

Cobb Library Foundation Launches Innovative Fundraising Shop for Cobb Libraries The Cobb Library Foundation recently announced the launch of The Cobb Library, a merchandise store with a mission-driven purpose: to strategically fund marketing and outreach initiatives for the Cobb County Public Library. This first-of-its-kind fundraising concept uses merchandise sales not only to generate revenue, but also to expand the library’s brand into new industries and strengthen its presence in the community. Founded in 2003, the Cobb Library Foundation is a taxexempt nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the library experience for over 700,000 residents through funding critical programs and infrastructure. The Foundation has consistently stepped in to provide financial support to marketing and outreach initiatives — ensuring the library remains visible, relevant, and deeply engaged with the community. Recognizing the need for a sustainable, ongoing source of funding for these efforts, Slone Williams, (CUE) Community and User Engagement Division Manager, Cobb County Library, advocated for a dynamic solution — establish a permanent, virtual-inventory merchandise store designed to generate ongoing funding for this essential mission. “This project reflects the Cobb Library Foundation’s commitment to investing in innovative partnerships that strengthen the library and our community. Together, we’ve transformed a vision into a meaningful way to support the library’s mission, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished,” said Sandra Morris, Executive Director, Cobb Library Foundation. All revenue generated by The Cobb Library Shop flows directly back into the Foundation, fueling initiatives that elevate the library’s visibility, deepen community engagement, and strengthen connections. “With over 400,000 active library card holders, our community’s passion for the library is undeniable — and we’re equally committed to serving them. What started as a passion project has blossomed into a dynamic platform that goes far beyond merchandise sales. We are building a vital bridge between the library and our community, opening fresh opportunities to celebrate our shared love of reading and lifelong learning. To ensure sustainability and impact, I’ve requested a six-month trial period with less than a $700 investment in startup costs. The shop represents a bold, innovative marketing channel that amplifies our brand, reinforces the library’s forward-thinking spirit, and extends our reach like never before,” said Williams.

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In addition to staff-designed collections, the shop welcomes community participation. Anyone can submit designs for consideration, and if selected, the store will give full credit to the artist in product descriptions and may feature them in promotions. This initiative ensures the shop reflects not only the library’s identity but also the creative spirit of the people it serves. For more information or to shop the exclusive collections, please visit cobblibrary.shop.

more connected, and more innovative mobility network. The Cumberland initiative shows how new technologies can enhance mobility and improve the daily travel experience for communities across our state.” The CAM Network will connect major destinations in Cumberland including Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta as well as the Cobb Convention Center–Atlanta, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Cumberland Mall, and the The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) and Cobb Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, creating County, Georgia, will be a recipient of a $6.6-million grant seamless first- and last-mile links between the district’s through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Low or workplaces, residential centers, and cultural attractions. No Emission Vehicle Program (Low-No) to launch a new The Cumberland CID and Cobb County will partner with autonomous shuttle network — the Cumberland Autonomous Beep, Inc., a U.S.-based autonomous mobility solutions Mobility (CAM) Network — a breakthrough initiative that will company, to operate the network and integrate it with connect people, jobs, and destinations across Metro Atlanta’s CobbLinc, the county’s existing public transit system. As the Cumberland district. This award distinguishes Cumberland as technology and operations the first and only autonomous partner, Beep brings significant vehicle project in the country to experience and capabilities to receive the Low-No grant award. support the safe and successful The CAM Network will leverage launch of this service. American technology to deploy “We are honored to partner a fleet of eight ADA-accessible with Cobb County, the autonomous shuttles, establishing Cumberland CID, and GDOT a connected public transit system to deploy this groundbreaking that will enhance first- and program,” said Kevin Reid, CEO last-mile access, improve quality and chairman of Beep, Inc. of life, and redefine mobility “The CAM Network represents within one of the Southeast’s the next evolution of mobility: most dynamic business and L-R: CID’s Adam Ross, Cobb Commission Chair Lisa Cupid, CID’s Kim Menefee, and Beep’s Joe Moye. safe, connected, and scalable. entertainment communities, the Together, we’re demonstrating CID reports. The project positions how autonomous transportation Georgia as a leader in integrating can seamlessly enhance the way autonomous transit technology people live, work, and move into a regional transportation throughout their communities.” system. The CAM Network will be The Cumberland Autonomous part of the CobbLinc public transit Mobility Network is part of a system operated by Cobb County — Kevin Reid, CEO and chairman of Beep, Inc. long-term vision dubbed the and is expected to launch in 2027. Cumberland Sweep — a 3-mile “This investment announced plus multimodal path designed to improve connectivity for today from the Federal Transit Administration marks one of the pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders through the district. By greatest chapters in our history, making a major component of linking major commercial, residential, and recreational areas, the Cumberland Sweep a reality,” said Kim Menefee, executive the Sweep and the new shuttle service will reduce congestion director of the Cumberland CID. “Soon, people will have a new, and create safer, more accessible streets for all users, the CID innovative way to move around the community using some reports. of the most advanced mobility technology in the world. I am The project builds on the success of the Cumberland Hopper, proud of how the Cumberland CID and our partners continue to an autonomous shuttle pilot launched in 2023 that provided innovate, leading the way for shared autonomous mobility.” valuable data and community engagement around autonomous “Today’s announcement represents the power of strong transit. With the addition of this new federal investment, partnerships,” said Russell R. McMurry, Commissioner of the Cumberland and Cobb County will now scale that success into Georgia Department of Transportation. “By working together a fully integrated, operational autonomous mobility network — at the local, state, and federal levels, we’re advancing a one of the most comprehensive in the Southeast. • project that supports Georgia’s broader vision for a safer,

Cumberland Community Improvement District and Cobb County Receive $6.6M to Launch Autonomous Shuttle Network

“We are honored to partner with Cobb County, the Cumberland CID, and GDOT to deploy this groundbreaking program”

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R E CR U I TI N G

Best Practices For Effective Hiring in 2026 BY MEGHAN RITCHIE, OWNER – TRUSTAL RECRUITING

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s the new year begins, small business owners have a prime opportunity to reflect on their growth plans and consider how to effectively build their teams for success in 2026. Hiring new talent is crucial to ensuring a resilient and thriving future. Understanding when to expand your team and recognizing the indicators that necessitate hiring will help you maintain a smooth growth trajectory. Waiting until the last minute can lead to hasty decisions and costly hiring mistakes. One of the most significant challenges small business owners face is navigating the hiring process themselves. In today’s complex job market, hiring isn’t as straightforward as it once was. Crafting effective job adverMeghan Ritchie tisements, sourcing candidates, and marketing positions to attract qualified talent now requires strategic thinking. Often, business owners find they lack the time and expertise needed for this process, as their strengths typically lie in other areas demanding their focus. When the decision is made to outsource the recruiting process, the pressure to fill positions quickly can lead to urgent hiring practices. This rush can result in hiring mistakes, with new team members either quitting or underperforming, ultimately affecting the organization negatively. To set your business up for success, consider these key actions for effective hiring: Identify Growth Triggers: Monitor your business to determine when it is time to hire. Look for signs such as increased workload, expanding client demands, and In today’s complex job market, team burnout. Have definitive metrics for these signs so it’s clear that the process for hiring needs to begin. hiring isn’t as straightforward Create a Comprehensive Hiring Plan: Develop a clear hiring as it once was. Crafting effective strategy that outlines specific roles needed, suitable timelines, and the budget for new hires. Regularly revisit this job advertisements, sourcing plan to ensure it evolves alongside your business needs. candidates, and marketing Set Timely Recruitment Processes: Initiate the recruitment process well in advance of anticipated growth and aim positions to attract qualified talent for at least two to three months before you expect to need now requires strategic thinking. a new team member. This timeline allows for thorough sourcing, interviewing, and evaluation of candidates. Cultural and Skills Assessment: Prioritize finding candidates who align with your company culture and possess the necessary skill sets. Conduct background checks, reach out to at least two references (preferably previous managers or bosses), and utilize assessments to gauge candidates’ competencies and fit. Prepare Onboarding and Training: Develop a comprehensive onboarding program that helps new hires acclimate quickly and effectively. Plan for a transition period of at least one to three months for them to become fully productive in their roles. Build a Talent Pipeline: Maintain ongoing engagement with potential candidates, even when you’re not actively hiring. Networking and relationship-building will streamline the hiring process when needs arise. As you embark on this new year, take the time to strategize your growth and hiring plans. Without a well-structured approach, you risk making bad hires and falling behind, which could compromise your progress and projected business goals. Start today by identifying your hiring needs, formulating your plan, and positioning yourself for success. This will pay off, big-time! Are you ready to hire with confidence? Reach out to Trustal Recruiting to learn how we assist small business owners in hiring reliable talent without the stress, wasted time, or uncertainties associated with the process. • MEGHAN RITCHIE is the founder of Trustal Recruiting, a firm specializing in recruiting services for home services companies like electrical, HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and other trades. The company collaborates deeply with its clients to develop their teams over time. Learn more at trustalrecruiting.com.

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SE NIO R LIV I N G

Strengthening The Elder Care Village BY DEKE CATEAU

new year is a natural time for reflection and goal setting. At A.G. Rhodes, that reflection begins right here in Cobb County, where nearly two years ago we completed the transformation of our Cobb community in Marietta. Today, A.G. Rhodes Cobb stands as a tangible example of what is possible when exceptional care, innovation, and community support come together in service of older adults. The Cobb campus was designed to reimagine what a nursing home community can be. Its private rooms, outdoor spaces, and therapy areas are designed to support safety and dignity, while specialized programming enhances quality of life, especially for those living with dementia. At its core, the campus reflects a person-directed philosophy of care that recognizes each elder as an individual with distinct needs and preferences. As we look back on the success of our new community and how to replicate best practices more broadly, we recognize a fundamental truth: achievements like this do not happen in isolation. The

A.G. Rhodes Cobb in Marietta.

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transformation of our Cobb campus was made possible through shared commitment and collaboration across our community, ensuring that older adults, regardless of financial circumstances, have access to the care they need and deserve. This collective effort is what we call our “village approach.” This approach is not just a guiding philosophy; it is an increasing necessity. Today’s healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, shaped by policy changes, workforce pressures, payment reform, and growing demand for specialized services. For mission-driven nonprofits like A.G. Rhodes, navigating these uncertainties requires foresight, adaptability, and strong partnerships that extend beyond traditional boundaries. For the business community, this work is increasingly relevant. Employers and employees across all sectors are feeling the effects of an aging population, whether through workforce demands, family caregiving responsibilities, or pressure on healthcare systems. In that sense, thoughtful approaches to elder care are not

separate from economic or workforce priorities; they are directly connected. After more than 120 years of serving Atlanta’s elders, A.G. Rhodes knows that long-term sustainability depends on our willingness to evolve. That’s why we’re working closely with universities, healthcare organizations, and business and community partners to improve how elder care is delivered and measured. Whether it’s advancing dementia care outcomes, improving workforce development, or creating intergenerational programs that combat isolation, we continually seek partnerships that will result in better outcomes for aging adults and for those who support them. As we set our goals for the year ahead, I am optimistic. The challenges before us are complex and will require flexibility. But with mission as our compass and collaboration as our strategy, A.G. Rhodes will continue to adapt, innovate, and serve. Together, as a village, we can build a stronger approach to supporting older adults in Cobb County and beyond, now and for the years ahead. • DEKE CATEAU is the CEO of A.G. Rhodes, which serves more than 1,400 seniors annually at its three locations in Fulton, Cobb, and DeKalb counties. For more information, visit agrhodes.org.

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BUS IN E SS

Craft Brewing Comes To Smyrna StillFire taps the Village Green for its second location. BY CORY SEKINE-PETTITE

A rendering of the new StillFire Brewing in Smyrna. 14

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asual readers/viewers of the news may have been told of the steady decline of the U.S. beer market over the past few years, but a deeper dive into the numbers tells a different story. According to the Brewers Association, while overall U.S. beer production and imports were down 1 percent in 2024, and craft brewer volume sales dropped by 4 percent, retail dollar sales of craft beer increased 3 percent, to $28.8 billion. And the U.S. beer market as a whole is valued at $117 billion — a 1-percent upturn from 2023. A modest increase is still an increase. A craft brewer is defined as a small business where less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by a beverage alcohol industry member that is not itself a craft brewer. Among the criteria defined by the Brewers Association, craft brewers demonstrate the following characteristics:

• The hallmark of craft beer and craft brewers is innovation. Craft brewers interpret historic styles with unique twists and develop new styles that have no precedent. • Craft beer is generally made with traditional ingredients like malted barley; interesting and sometimes non-traditional ingredients are often added for distinctiveness. • Craft brewers have distinctive, individualistic approaches to connecting with their customers. • Craft brewers maintain integrity by what they brew and their general independence, free from a substantial interest by a non-craft brewer. • The majority of Americans live within 10 miles of a craft brewer. Surprisingly (at least to this writer), Vermont leads the nation in the number

of craft breweries per capita (per 100,000 people). However, Georgia still is blessed with a multitude of award-winning craft brewers, one of which currently is building out its first location in Cobb County. Suwanee-based StillFire Brewing’s new brewery on the Village Green in Smyrna is scheduled open by the end of February. If you’ve spent any time in the Jonquil City, then you certainly have noticed the building’s construction in a prominent location along Atlanta Road. With the grand opening approaching, Cobb In Focus spoke with StillFire’s Chief Operating Officer, Aaron Bisges, to get the lowdown. “We are tentatively planning our Grand Opening for Saturday, February 28th contingent on completion of construction — fingers crossed, but looking good right now! Our Grand Opening will be a huge celebration with live bands all day, food, giveaways, specials, and 97.1 The River

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“We believe in partnering with our neighbors to help benefit the local economy.” — Aaron Bisges, StillFire’s Chief Operating Officer broadcasting on location,” Bisges said. StillFire’s story began in 2011 when Randall and Angela Veugeler turned their love for craft beer into the Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest. This annual festival soon gained national prominence, and this is where the Veugelers met nationally recognized home brewer Phil Farrell. Together, along with former lawyer Bisges, the group soon would turn a former Gwinnett County fire station into their dream craft brewery. In October 2019, StillFire Brewing opened for business.

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Since then, the company has churned out multiple, award-winning beers and garnered an international reputation for brewing some of the best beers in the world. Among its winning concoctions are the Orange Diva, a blood orange wheat ale; Kilt Chamberlain, a Scotch ale; Dark Moo’d, an imperial stout; and Glory Haze, a hazy IPA. Beer enthusiasts can look for these — as well as some Smyrna exclusives — when the new location opens. “While we will obviously have our familiar brews that have a following from

Suwanee, we will keep a rotating supply of Smyrna-exclusive beers that will tie into the demand of the community,” Bisges said. “We have a production license to make beer, wine, and spirits on-site, and all three will be produced and sold there,” he continued. “There is also a walk-up window kitchen for permanent food on-site that will be serving authentic street-style tacos and Mexican food.” According to Bisges, the total space is 25,000 square feet, with half of that dedicated to beer/spirits production. The

STILLFIRE BY THE NUMBERS Years in business: Six. Opened in Suwanee in October of 2019. Number/style of beers available: StillFire has brewed over 200 unique beers and always keep 24+ on tap at any given time, rotating seasonally throughout the year.

customer space includes a main level taproom; a large, covered beer garden; a barrel room for private events; a walk-out balcony overlooking the production area; patios; and a 4,000-square-foot rooftop with fire pits, large TVs, and full bar. The City of Smyrna has never had a space like this to call its own, and Bisges said when StillFire was looking to expand on the opposite side of the Perimeter from its original location, they knew exactly where to look. “I am originally from Cobb County — Kennesaw to be exact — and moved back here to Smyrna (walking distance of the new brewery) in 2021 in anticipation of the new build-out,” Bisges said. “We first approached the city about this location in early 2021, with planning, development, land acquisition, and funding taking us a few years.” Among the many attributes that drew StillFire to Smyrna, the city’s proximity to The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park was definitely a factor, Bisges added, saying he has been working with the City of Smyrna closely to help bring more traffic to the downtown Smyrna developments. In the near future, StillFire intends to offer a shuttle service between downtown Smyrna and the ballpark during Braves games. Additionally, Bisges said the new taproom will be more than just a brewery; it will be a place for events, parties, celebrations, gatherings of all kinds. It will dog- and kid-friendly, something that many places do not offer. There will be live music every weekend, and the open-air rooftop is unique to this location. “StillFire will be an option of hopefully

many that will drive traffic to downtown Smyrna area,” Bisges said. “We believe in partnering with our neighbors to help benefit the local economy. So far, we have partnered with Rev Coffee, Atkins Park, Beto’s Tacos, to name a few. We are always open to local collaborations. “We have a wonderful relationship with the city, and quite frankly none of this would have been possible without them,” he added. “Namely, Mayor Norton, the City Council, Andrea Worthy with Economic Development, and the entire City development team have helped us clear many hurdles to make this dream a reality.” When asked what sets StillFire apart from the competition — other than a growing collection of medals and trophies — Bisges said: “We focus on community, loyalty, and quality. We have our own foundation (Find Your Fire Foundation) which we founded in 2021 that allows us to raise money and awareness to hyper-local initiatives and give back to the community that supports us. “…[We] have a rotating calendar of themed events and parties for everyone to enjoy,” he continued. “We will have wine, beer, and batched cocktails, and our Brew Master (Phil Farrell) is a world-renowned craft beer maker, being awarded over 70 medals from all over the world in our sixplus years of operating.” If you are interested in being more than just a customer, Bisges says StillFire plans to hire 10 full-time and 70 part-time employees. You can learn more on the jobs page of their website at stillfirebrewing.com/jobs. See you at the grand opening! •

Awards won: 70+ awards (and growing), including medals at the Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, the US Open, Brewery of the Year at the New York International Beer Competition three years in a row, and many more. A full list can be viewed on their website. Total glasses of beer poured: StillFire pours about 20,000 pints per month, or approximately 1.5 million beers total since opening in 2019. Locations where StillFire beers are sold: The beers are currently in 550+ locations throughout the state, including Truist Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Kroger, Publix, Ingles, Total Wine, Taco Mac, and more. VIP membership available: StillFire offers a VIP membership for regulars, at $2,000 which gets them a free pour every day, along with multiple perks including swag, discounts, private event rentals, and their own special glass and nameplate on the wall.

StillFire Brewing 2725 King St SE Smyrna, GA 30080 stillfirebrewing.com Hours of operation: M-Th 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 12 p.m. – 12 a.m.; Sun 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

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HE A LTH

Breaking Barriers How the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office is advancing community health through sensory inclusion. BY RANDI OKRAY Editor’s note: Reprinted from the May-Jun 2025 issue.

L-R: Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens, KultureCity’s Dan Vasquenza, and Sheriff’s Office Chief of Staff David Jones.

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hen most people think of public health, they often picture hospitals, clinics, or vaccines. But community health is also built on trust, safety, and how well we care for the emotional and psychological needs of all residents. That includes individuals with sensory processing challenges — those who may find everyday environments overwhelming due to loud sounds, bright lights, or large crowds. Recognizing this often-overlooked aspect of public health, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office has taken a historic step: becoming the first sheriff’s office in Georgia to earn Sensory Inclusive™ certification from KultureCity®, the world’s leading nonprofit for sensory accessibility and inclusion of those with invisible disabilities and sensory needs. This milestone marks more than a procedural achievement — it signals a shift

in how law enforcement connects with, supports, and protects its most vulnerable residents.

What sensory inclusion means for public health Sensory sensitivities are common for individuals with conditions such as autism, dementia, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and other neurological challenges. According to the CDC, about 1 in 6 children in the United States has a developmental disability — many of which include sensory processing challenges — and an estimated 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Beyond childhood, countless adults live with conditions such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, or dementia, all of which can make everyday environments overwhelming. The inability to regulate sensory input

can lead to distress, behavioral episodes, or health complications — particularly in environments not equipped to accommodate those needs. In high-stress scenarios involving law enforcement, these vulnerabilities can be exacerbated if officers do not have appropriate training or tools.

Training tailored for real-world situations Every deputy in the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office has earned a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certification, meaning they have undergone specialized training created by leading medical experts, neurodivergent individuals, and mental health professionals. The training, which typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete, is designed to equip first responders with actionable knowledge and practical strategies they can apply in real time.

Student receives a KultureCity sensory bag from deputy. J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Craig Owens. “By becoming a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certified agency, we are taking an important step forward in ensuring that individuals with sensory sensitivities feel safe and supported when they interact with our deputies.”

Bridging gaps between law enforcement and health

The curriculum covers a range of scenarios and includes modules such as: • Understanding the different conditions that may cause sensory sensitivities (autism, dementia, PTSD, anxiety, brain injury, etc.). • Recognizing early signs of sensory overload. • Adjusting communication to reduce stress, including the use of visual aids, cue cards, and nonverbal techniques. • Safe and supportive de-escalation practices. • Familiarity with tools commonly found in sensory bags and how to offer them appropriately. This blend of technical knowledge and real-world scenarios ensures deputies not only know what to do, but why it matters. 20

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These resources include both the knowledge to adapt communication techniques — such as using simple language, slowing the pace of interaction, and offering clear, non-threatening body language — as well as the physical tools needed to provide comfort and support in the moment. As part of the initiative, the Sheriff’s Office now offers sensory bags equipped with items such as noise-canceling headphones (donated by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads. These tools can offer instant relief to those experiencing sensory distress, helping prevent potential medical issues or unnecessary escalations. “Our mission is to serve and protect every individual in Cobb County, and that means ensuring we meet the needs of all members of our community,” said Sheriff

The connection between public safety and public health is becoming increasingly evident. Sheriff Owens and his leadership team understand that law enforcement plays a pivotal role in supporting the emotional well-being of the community, not just its physical safety. From mental health transports to the implementation of wellness initiatives for both staff and detainees, the agency’s approach emphasizes health equity and inclusivity. This certification adds a powerful tool to that strategy. When deputies are trained to identify sensory needs, they can better serve children, veterans, elders, and others who may experience invisible challenges. This isn’t just good policing; it’s traumainformed care. The program also strengthens community trust. Parents of children with autism, for example, can now feel more confident knowing that if their child becomes overwhelmed in a public setting, deputies are equipped to respond calmly and helpfully. This reduces

“Our mission is to serve and protect every individual in Cobb County, and that means ensuring we meet the needs of all members of our community. By becoming a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certified agency, we are taking an important step forward in ensuring that individuals with sensory sensitivities feel safe and supported when they interact with our deputies.” — Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens the fear that often comes with public interactions for these families and builds a bridge between them and public services.

Partnerships rooted in community care The Sheriff’s Office began exploring sensory inclusion after conversations with community members highlighted gaps in how invisible disabilities were understood during public safety interactions. The leadership team, under Sheriff Craig Owens, reached out to KultureCity after seeing its successful partnerships with major public venues and healthcare organizations. The alignment between KultureCity’s mission of inclusion and the agency’s commitment to community health made the partnership a natural fit.

Tools, training, and technology The implementation of KultureCity’s training and resources has been smooth and thorough. The Sheriff’s Office learned directly from professionals who have lived experience with sensory conditions, ensuring that the training is both informative and empathetic. In addition to staff training and sensory bag deployment, the KultureCity App plays an essential role in accessibility. Available for free on the iOS or Android app stores, the app allows users to view which sensory features are available at the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office. It also offers a Social Story — a visual guide that prepares individuals with sensory needs for what to expect. This is particularly helpful in reducing anxiety for both children and adults who benefit from routine and structure.

About KultureCity and its reach Based in Birmingham, Alabama, KultureCity is the nation’s leading nonprofit focused on making the world more accessible for individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities. The organization has partnered with more than 3,400 venues and partners across 25 countries, including locations throughout the United States and around the world such as the following: • NFL, NBA, and MLB stadiums • Museums • Zoos and aquariums • Churches and houses of worship • Schools and colleges In Georgia, the growing recognition of sensory inclusion has led many public spaces to become certified Sensory Inclusive. Now, Cobb County is leading the way for public safety by becoming the first county in the state to have first responders certified through KultureCity. This distinction places Cobb County among a pioneering group dedicated to ensuring accessibility for individuals with sensory needs — proving that inclusivity is as essential in emergency response as it is in entertainment and community spaces.

Recognition and the road ahead To honor this milestone, the official Sensory Inclusive certification was presented to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office during its Apr. 1, 2025, community briefing. Dan Vasquenza, activist and partnership lead for KultureCity, personally delivered the certification to Sheriff Owens, commending the office’s leadership in promoting inclusivity. “Empowering communities through inclusion and innovation, Sheriff Owens is aligned

with the same visionary spirit as KultureCity and is championing a world where every individual, regardless of ability, is not just accepted but celebrated,” said Vasquenza. This achievement isn’t a final destination; it’s a launching point. Sheriff Owens and his team are already exploring ways to expand inclusive practices across more facilities and community events. By setting a new standard for what law enforcement can and should do to support sensory needs, Cobb County is paving the way for counties across Georgia and beyond.

A vision of healthy, inclusive communities Public health means more than preventing illness; it’s about ensuring every person feels seen, safe, and supported in the spaces they occupy. The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office is proving that law enforcement agencies can be champions of that vision. For many residents, particularly those with sensory sensitivities or invisible disabilities, this new certification means peace of mind. It means the next time they or their loved ones interact with a deputy, they can trust they’ll be met with understanding — not confusion or fear. And in that trust, a healthier, more inclusive community takes shape. To learn more about the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office and its initiatives, visit cobbsheriff.org and follow across all social media channels. To learn more about KultureCity, visit KultureCity.org. • RANDI OKRAY is the Senior Department Communication and Public Relations Specialist for the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office. J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

FE ATU R E

BY JENNIFER TODD

ounded in 2005 by Dr. John Lipman, the Atlanta Fibroid Center specializes in treating symptomatic fibroids through a minimally invasive, outpatient Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) procedure. Through the center’s dedication to providing UFE, more than 10,000 women have avoided hysterectomies. In 2025, Dr. Lipman and Atlanta Fibroid Center celebrated 20 years of helping patients preserve their uteruses, while effectively treating fibroid symptoms. For more than 25 years, Dr. Lipman has focused exclusively on UFE. The 30-minute, outpatient procedure blocks blood flow to all uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink. This allows women to preserve their uteruses and maintain fertility options with minimal recovery time as compared to surgical alternatives, such as a myomectomy or hysterectomy. His revolutionary work has broadened awareness of non-surgical fibroid treatment and contributed to a national shift toward minimally invasive medical procedures.

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“IT IS NOT ONLY IMPORTANT FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE PHYSICIANS TO UNDERSTAND UFE, BUT ALSO FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC. THIS INCLUDES, IN PARTICULAR, POLITICIANS WHO CAN AFFECT POLICY CHANGES IN WOMEN’S HEALTH.” – Dr. John Lipman

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Letters and photos from patients.

As one of the world’s most experienced UFE physicians, Dr. Lipman completed medical training at Georgetown University in 1985. He fulfilled a radiology residency at Harvard Medical School and a fellowship in vascular and interventional radiology at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Yale University School of Medicine. A crowning achievement, Dr. Lipman was awarded a Fellow of the Society of Interventional Radiology (FSIR) designation, an honor bestowed upon only 10 percent of members. He also is a Fellow of the American College of Radiology. Dr. Lipman’s decision to work specifically in UFE came over 30 years ago, the result of his attending and speaking at a 24

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medical conference in Chicago, focused on embolizing cancerous tumors. “I believe everything happens for a reason,” he says. “I did not normally attend this annual conference and haven’t attended since. Dr. Scott Goodwin gave a presentation on a revolutionary embolization procedure called Uterine Fibroid Embolization, or UFE, for the treatment of benign uterine ﬁbroids. It seemed amazing, and because I’m in Atlanta, I knew I could help a lot of women.” Dr. Lipman also believed he could help women of color, in particular, who disproportionately suffer from fibroids, to avoid unnecessary surgery. According to the UCLA Center for Reproductive Science Health and Education, up to 80 percent of women of color develop uterine fibroids during childbearing years, with symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and urinary issues. African American women are three-times more likely to develop fibroids, which are larger, more numerous, and more likely to be recommended for surgery than their white counterparts, according to National Institute of Health research. “Fibroids affect African American women at disproportionately high rates, and many are not offered the full range of treatment options available to them,” Dr. Lipman says. “Our goal is to make sure that every woman has the information she deserves to make the choice that is right for her. In most cases, that choice is UFE, preserving her uterus and avoiding an unnecessary and irreversible hysterectomy.” Despite being benign, fibroids are the number-one reason that women, whose average age is 40, undergo hysterectomies. Performing the UFE procedure is truly the life’s work of Dr. Lipman. During the last 20 years, he has cared only for women suffering from fibroids.

Highly decorated and dedicated Dr. Lipman is not only a board-certified interventional radiologist and renowned authority in the non-surgical treatment of uterine fibroids, but also a philanthropist, an entrepreneur, and an award-winning public speaker. He has delivered over 200 invited lectures to some of the most prestigious medical centers in the country, including those at Harvard, Morehouse,

“I HAVE MET WAY TOO MANY WOMEN LESS THAN 30 YEARS OF AGE WHO HAVE HAD A HYSTERECTOMY FOR FIBROIDS. NONE OF THEM WANTED A HYSTERECTOMY, BUT IF YOU’RE SUFFERING AND YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT UFE, YOU MAY ELECT A HYSTERECTOMY TO END YOUR SUFFERING.” – Dr. John Lipman

Vanderbilt, and Yale. He serves as an adjunct clinical assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Morehouse School of Medicine as well. Locally, he has served on the boards of directors of the Medical Association of Atlanta, Cobb County Medical Society, and Outpatient Endovascular and Interventional Society. In 2023, he was named president of the Southeastern Angiographic Society. Dr. Lipman currently serves on the board of directors for Hosea Helps Feed The Hungry. He describes the work of the organization as a vital safety net for many Atlanta residents. Hosea Helps was founded in 1971 by Hosea Williams and is led today by his daughter and son-in-law, Elisabeth and Afemo Omilami. “There is an increasing number of people in our community and elsewhere who are experiencing food insecurity,” Dr. Lipman says. “Hosea Helps is invaluable in providing food support as well as help with

rent, energy bills, and job placement. The Omilamis are continuing the invaluable work begun in 1971 by Hosea Williams, whom I feel privileged to have known. When Hosea Helps was looking to expand their operations, my wife and I donated funds [$100,000] to make their new facility a reality.” Four years later, they also assisted Hosea Helps with a fundraising campaign during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Atlanta Fibroid Center, which included the attendance of several celebrities, former patients, members of the industry, and government officials. The event raised $7,500 from ticket sales, which was matched by Dr. Lipman and his wife, Jayne, for a total of $15,000 for Hosea Helps.

A recognized leader Dr. Lipman has been recognized in many ways by various entities in Atlanta and beyond. He was named the “Health Care Hero of the Year” by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and a “Top Doc” by Atlanta Magazine. In 2019, he was named the Atlanta Medical Association’s “Trailblazer Physician of the Year,” and, in 2021, received the Vanguard Award for Philanthropy from Morehouse School of Medicine. In 2024, Dr. Lipman was recognized by AmeriCorps and President Biden with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Community Service. He was also awarded the 2024 Frederick S. Keller, MD, Philanthropy Award by the Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation. J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

The Atlanta Fibroid Center has received accolades as well. “We built the Atlanta Fibroid Center just over 10 years ago,” Dr. Lipman says. “It is a state-of-the-art medical center that has received numerous awards for excellence and outstanding service, having seen women from throughout the United States and even other countries.” Dr. Lipman remains humble and is most proud of his philanthropic work, quoting Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” His community service and charitable giving to those most in need in the community are highly intentional. “I have been caring for women in Atlanta for the past 35 years, primarily women of color, and we engage and participate both with our time and our money in the African American community,” he says. “The recognition of my medical accomplishments allows an opportunity to spread the important message that women suffering with ﬁbroids do not need to undergo a hysterectomy to ﬁnd the relief that they are looking for. They can, instead, opt for the nonsurgical UFE procedure.”

Addressing a critical need Dr. Lipman believes every woman suffering from uterine fibroids deserves to know all of her treatment options, since nearly every woman who has been told that she needs surgery for her fibroids is a candidate for UFE. Covered by all medical insurance carriers, UFE was endorsed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in 2008. And yet, most women never hear about UFE from their doctors. “Hysterectomy is a major surgery; it is essentially an amputation, and isn’t necessary to treat benign fibroids,” Dr. Lipman explains. “The average age at which a woman in the United States undergoes a hysterectomy is 39, and I have met way too many women less than 30 years of age who have had a hysterectomy for fibroids. None of them wanted a hysterectomy, but if you’re suffering and you don’t know about UFE, you may elect a hysterectomy to end your suffering.” 26

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“FIBROIDS AFFECT AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN AT DISPROPORTIONATELY HIGH RATES, AND MANY ARE NOT OFFERED THE FULL RANGE OF TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO THEM. OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERY WOMAN HAS THE INFORMATION SHE DESERVES TO MAKE THE CHOICE THAT IS RIGHT FOR HER.” – Dr. John Lipman

A purpose-driven facility The Atlanta Fibroid Center is the region’s leading nonsurgical fibroid treatment center, with a dedicated angiographic suite (A procedure whereby a radio-opaque contrast agent is injected into a blood vessel so X-rays can be taken.) and individual, private rooms designed for comfortable patient recovery. The center’s reach extends far beyond Georgia, with 20 percent of patients traveling from across the United States and internationally for treatment. Many arrive after years of limited options or conflicting information about treatment. The center serves as both a clinical resource and an educational hub, offering community seminars, informational tools, and ongoing patient support. This work also contributes to published research and public advocacy focused on reducing unnecessary surgeries and elevating awareness of minimally invasive alternatives. The center is known for combining clinical expertise with respectful, individualized care. Patients frequently report that their lives were literally transformed following the UFE procedure. In fact, Georgia patients chose Atlanta Fibroid Center as a “Best of Georgia Physician Practice” in 2025. The statewide

recognition reflects the center’s ongoing commitment to providing safe and effective alternatives to hysterectomy for women with uterine fibroids across the state. “As a leader in the nonsurgical treatment of uterine ﬁbroids, we’ll have numerous medical students, medical residents, attending physicians, members of industry and, occasionally, politicians wanting to tour our center and watch UFE procedures,” Lipman says. “We recently had a delegation from Nigeria visit the Atlanta Fibroid Center. It is not only important for current and future physicians to understand UFE, but also for the general public. This includes, in particular, politicians who can affect policy changes in women’s health.”

Lives forever changed Having cared for more than 10,000 women, Dr. Lipman has no shortage of happy and grateful patients who sing his praises. Katy Sanders had a positive experience with Dr. Lipman and Atlanta Fibroid Center from the start. “After experiencing the debilitating symptoms from uterine fibroids for so long, I had become anemic, depressed, fatigued, anxiety ridden and hopeless,” she says. “I came across Dr. Lipman’s website for Atlanta Fibroid Center. Every question I could think of was already answered in some way on his website, including questions I didn’t have at the time. Dr. Lipman is truly in the field of medicine for all the right reasons. He definitely gave me back my quality of my life!” Another patient of Dr. Lipman, Elizabeth Perry, hopes to change the narrative around fibroids and adenomyosis, following years of failed treatments and interventions she experienced. Dr. Lipman and the Atlanta Fibroid Center offered a plan to normalize her reproductive health. “I underwent more than 60 blood transfusions, a myomectomy, years of unanswered questions, medically induced menopause, innumerable hematology and gynecology appointments, and an anaphylactic reaction to an iron transfusion,” Perry says. “Dr. Lipman explained my treatment options in a manner that was not solely inclusive of surgery or a hysterectomy. I needed to know that my opinion and concerns were being

heard and respected, and he did just that. I encourage women to advocate for themselves! There are options, and one of them includes Uterine Fibroid Embolization.” Dr. John and Jayne Lipman are founders of the Free From Fibroids Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping eradicate healthcare disparities in fibroid treatment and funding groundbreaking fibroid research. Recent recipients include the Dr. Scott C. Goodwin Grant for Adenomyosis and the Dr. James B. Spies Global Summit on Uterine Fibroid and Adenomyosis Research. Strong community support is maintained for area charities in homeless assistance and hunger relief, including Atlanta Mission, Hosea Helps, Project U First Inc., and Support Smyrna, as well as scholarships awarded at Morehouse School of Medicine.

Future goals for growth Dr. Lipman aims to continue outreach within populations that experience higher fibroid prevalence, specifically African

American women. He will advocate for treatment approaches that prioritize safety, effectiveness, and long-term well-being. Future growth is currently in motion, with more expansion on the horizon. “I feel very blessed and privileged to have cared for women in Atlanta for over 30 years,” he says. “The last 20 years have been exclusively devoted to women suffering from symptomatic uterine ﬁbroids. We recently opened our second center in Atlanta and a center in Richmond, Virginia. We also have several additional centers set to open in 2026.” •

Atlanta Fibroid Center 3670 Highlands Parkway SE Smyrna, GA 30082 678.679.7173 https://atlii.com

Where Businesses Work Better Invested. Connected. Thriving. From enhanced mobility and pedestrian safety to placemaking that fosters connection, our work is designed to support business success. These improvements help attract top talent, draw in customers, and open doors to new opportunities. Invest where it matters—in the people, places, and progress shaping Cobb County’s future.

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INS U R A N CE SO L U T I O N S

Your Insurance Questions Answered BY KEVIN DIPETRILLO, PARTNER, POINTENORTH INSURANCE GROUP

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client called recently and asked, “Are my insurance premiums going up at renewal?” I didn’t even need to look to answer the question. These things are certain in life: death, taxes, and rising insurance premiums. Isn’t that how the saying goes? We’ve been in a prolonged market of rapidly rising property and liability insurance premiums dating back to 2019. Kevin DiPetrillo Why? When will it end? What can we do about it? These are big questions that I’ll tackle one at a time. Today, we’ll discuss why we’ve seen double-digit rate increases for six years, compounding premium growth and frustration. I’ll get this out of the way right out front. We’re not going back to where we were. The causes of the premium increases of the last decade are structural and are highly unlikely to change. Premiums will level off in the future, but anything beyond stability or modest reductions from competition is extremely unlikely. According to the 2025 Profitability report published by Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia and based on data from

roofs are being replaced at record rates as well. Water leaks are another leading cause of property claims. The cost of repairing structures has risen rapidly since 2019, so we have more frequent property claims that cost more to repair (-6.7% profit for commercial property and -7.3% for homeowners). On the auto insurance side, vehicles are getting more sophisticated and more expensive to repair. The bumper that used to cost $500 now costs $4,000 and is laden with computerized sensors. There’s no such thing as a small claim anymore. Then there’s the other person in that auto accident. Take a careful look at your personal or commercial auto premium and you’ll see a vast majority of the premium comes from liability insurance, not damage to your own vehicle. Every billboard on the interstate advertises a personal injury attorney promising a nuclear verdict for accident victims. Fueled by large verdicts and private equity dollars, the Personal Injury industry is booming. The Georgia legislature passed Tort reform in 2025 that’s a modest step in the right direction, but more needs to be done. Whatever impact the current legislation has will take a couple years to materialize as cases are tried. Personal auto rates are due for some stabilization (-0.4%), but commercial auto is still in dire trouble (-13.8%).

The causes of the premium increases of the last decade are structural and are highly unlikely to change. Premiums will level off in the future, but anything beyond stability or modest reductions from competition is extremely unlikely. A.M Best, insurance companies had a -8.7% underwriting profit in Georgia in 2024. For every dollar they took in, they paid out nearly $1.09 in claims and expenses. Consider the $35 billion in Georgia premiums and you’ll see that insurance companies have been losing billions of dollars per year in our state for years on end. Profitability has been declining for the last three years, even as rates have increased. Out of 50 U.S. states and D.C., Georgia ranked 50th in profitability in 2024 (thanks, Louisiana). Some types of insurance have fared better than others. Georgia has a better than average Workers Compensation market, but the markets for all forms of auto and property coverage rank at or near the bottom of the country. I know, let’s all cry for the insurance companies. Why should we care? At the end of the day, the function of the insurance industry is to pool risk and distribute it evenly among market participants. If insurance companies are losing money at unsustainable rates, then the public is losing money at unsustainable rates. It’s not an insurance company problem; it’s a problem for everyone in our community. The insurers are just aggregating the data. So where is all the money going? More frequent and more severe weather patterns are causing record amounts of property damage each year. Noticed any new roofs lately? It’s not just your neighborhood anymore. Commercial

The only good news is that we don’t have to improve much before companies and families alike see some relief to the relentless march upward. Insurance companies make their money in two ways. First, they can make an underwriting profit where they pay out less in claims and expenses than they take in from premiums. Second, they can make an investment profit. Insurers invest all those premium dollars while they’re waiting to pay out claims. Because of strong investment returns, insurers are more inclined to operate at a very small underwriting profit. They would all love to make an underwriting profit of 10% or more, but they’ll be content to break even or post a single-digit profit while investment returns are strong. So, with a little luck from the weather and, yes, a little more rate increase, we could get to sustainable premiums and inflation level increases each year. Do you remember those days? In the March/April issue, we’ll discuss what you can do in this market to combat premium increases. Until then, stay safe. • KEVIN DIPETRILLO is a Partner at PointeNorth Insurance Group. With a degree in Risk Management from The University of Georgia, he has been helping businesses and High Net Worth households with their insurance needs for 25 years. Visit pointenorthins.com to see how the company can serve your needs.

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ABOUT COBB COUNTY Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta: 20 mi

Major Employers:

Cities of Cobb:

Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: 30 mi

• Amazon.com Services, Inc. • The Home Depot • Lockheed Martin Corp. • Kennesaw State University • Fed Ex Ground Package System • Publix Supermarkets • Walmart • Wellstar Health System • Piedmont Healthcare

ACWORTH acworth-ga.gov

POPULATION: 776,743 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $503,580 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE: 7% ONLINE: cobbcounty.org Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.

Cobb

Attractions: • Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta • Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park • Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History • Silver Comet Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Atlanta

Vinings

Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water and abundant recreational activities. AUSTELL austellga.gov Although Austell is located just 18 miles from downtown Atlanta, It’s revitalized downtown gives it a small-town feel. The town is known for railfanning and the colorful train engines of the Atlanta rail lines. KENNESAW kennesaw-ga.gov Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to first-rate parks, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History and Kennesaw State University. MABLETON mableton.gov Incorporated in 2022 and becoming Cobb County’s largest city with more than 78,000 residents, Mableton is home to Six Flags, the Historic Mable House and Mable House Amphitheater and access to the Silver Comet Trail. MARIETTA mariettaga.gov Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, renowned restaurants, numerous museums, celebrated theatres and great hiking at Kennesaw Mountain. POWDER SPRINGS cityofpowdersprings.org Once a gold mining town, the city boasts a historic downtown, Thurman Springs Park, the Cobb County BMX Park and integrated bike and pedestrian trails. SMYRNA smyrnaga.gov Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta and winner of the Urban Land Institute’s Award of Excellence, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly, diverse neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.

Neighborhoods of Cobb: Acworth

Kennesaw

Marietta Power Springs Austell Marietta

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Smyrna

CUMBERLAND Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park.

VININGS Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Acworth Power acworth.org

Cobb EMC cobbemc.com H GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Marietta Power mariettaga.gov

WATER Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org Marietta Water marietta.gov

H Select provider

Education: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org

FIVE PRIVATE SCHOOLS Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org The Walker School thewalkerschool.org Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com Mt. Bethel Christian Academy mtbethelchristian.org

(source: Niche)

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Chattahoochee Technical College chattahoocheetech.edu Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu Life University life.edu

Utilities: NATURAL GAS

Truist Park- Home of the Atlanta Braves

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FINA L FO CU S

End-Of-Year Fatigue BY CORY SEKINE-PETTITE

n this page in the Nov/Dec 2025 issue, I wrote about burnout and the fact that I was taking a long vacation for the first time in years. Well, since returning from that trip, I spent the last two months of 2025 producing multiple publications here at New South Publishing (Yes, I am the editor for multiple magazines.). While I did come back refreshed and energized, I realized around the holidays that I no longer had much energy and all I wanted to do was sleep. Basically, I slept through what most Americans consider the most important and fun holidays of the year. And it occurred to me, this happens nearly every year. Typically, I keep my nose to the grindstone for 12 months and spend the last few days of each year just plain exhausted. I decided to see if this is a common phenomenon, and sure enough there’s a term for it: end-of-year fatigue. Doctors say this feeling isn’t unusual. Physicians with the South African Federation for Mental Health liken it to running a race, where the most difficult part of any race is always the last part — going towards the finishing line. They say end-of-year fatigue is normal if you have been putting your best foot forward all year. So, to combat it, the Federation offers the following suggestions:

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1. Try take regular time off — It is important to take regular time off during the year and to make sure you allow yourself sufficient time to recharge and rest so that you never get to the point of burnout. 2. Make sure you get enough sleep — Getting good sleep can help improve your physical and mental well-being. Try and go to sleep early and aim for a healthy sleep cycle of at least seven hours per day. 3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle — Getting regular exercise is not only good for our physical health, but also our mental health. Also, eating a balanced diet can help ensure that your body is wellnourished and able to perform at its best. Most essential is to stay hydrated as this maintains various biological processes. 5. Seek professional assistance when needed — If you are feeling extreme levels of fatigue, and nothing you do seems to be helping, it is essential that you consider getting help from a medical professional. Yes, these are all useful, important tips. It may be difficult — but not impossible — for me to follow them. I’ll do my best! Will you? •