Life + Culture

Dad Jokes Strike Again

Five punchlines you DEFINITELY saw coming. Article and Photography by What did the buffalo say to its son when he left? Bison! -- Daniel Parker   What did Grandpa say right before he kicked the bucket? "Wanna see how far I can kick this bucket?" -- Eric Homansky   Why did the scarecrow get a promotion? Because he was outstanding in his field. -- Noah Wells   Why did the math book look so sad? It has too many problems. -- Nilesh Gala   One time I asked a Spanish snail...

Professional Services

Focused on the Families He Serves

A look at Jaha Howard’s work with families in Smyrna-Vinings. Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Brandon Carter On any given morning at A+ Pediatric Dentistry, before the first patient arrives and before the rhythm of the day begins, Dr. Jaha Howard is already there—lights on, doors open, quietly preparing. It’s a routine that starts long before sunrise, with time spent in reflection, prayer, and learning. By the time families begin to walk through the door, he’s ready—not just to care...

Auto + Marine

Driving the Passion Forward

A Smyrna family’s car legacy built on connection, community, and memory Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Ashley Putnam There’s a moment that happens around classic cars - quiet, almost instinctive - when someone slows down, leans in, and says, “My dad had one just like that.” For Bret Baker, those moments are everything. “They create memories,” he says. “And instant connections with people.” It’s a fitting reflection for a life shaped not just by cars, but by the people and stories...

Life + Culture

Legacy of the Silver Comet

How a historic railroad corridor became our premier outdoor sanctuary. Article and Photography by Ashley Putnam In the heart of Cobb County, a ribbon of smooth pavement stretches westward, cutting a path through dense pine forests and over soaring trestles. This is the Silver Comet Trail, a hallmark of North Georgia’s outdoor culture and a testament to the power of community-focused urban planning. What was once the corridor for the glamorous Silver Comet passenger train is now a beloved...

Life + Culture

Gentlemen of Influence

Four local men. Four distinct paths. One shared commitment to leadership, service, and strengthening the Smyrna community they call home. Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Brandon Carter & Harbor 26 Studio True influence isn’t measured by visibility—it’s measured by impact. In this Gentlemen of Influence feature, we highlight four men whose leadership is shaping the fabric of the Smyrna community. Through business, service, and a deep sense of responsibility to those around them...

Sports + Recreation

The Heart Behind CHS Tennis

A rising program, a connected community, and a season that shows what’s possible when everything comes together. Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Nicole Bennett and Zachary Hall On any given afternoon in Smyrna, the courts are alive. There’s the rhythm of rally after rally, the quiet focus before a serve, the cheers from teammates just beyond the baseline. But at Campbell High School this season, there’s been something more—something you can feel even before the first point is played...

Education

Senior Spotlight: The Class of 2026

Big dreams, lasting friendships, and the moments that shaped them Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Provided There’s a certain kind of magic that comes with graduation season—the mix of nostalgia, pride, and anticipation for everything still to come. Across Smyrna and Vinings, the Class of 2026 is stepping into that moment, carrying with them years of memories and the quiet confidence of what lies ahead. From Friday night lights and theater stages to classrooms, fields, and friendships...

Fitness

Community in Motion: Jonquil City Jog

A Smyrna tradition that continues to grow, inspire, and give back. Photography by Ashley Putnam The skies were gray, but the energy in Smyrna was anything but. With more than 750 runners registered, this year’s Jonquil City Jog brought the community together for a morning defined by movement, encouragement, and heart. While the weather threatened, it ultimately held off—making way for a remarkable race day. From the start, there was a buzz in the air. Jessica “It’s All Good” set the rhythm...

Wellness

A Moment of Calm

At Utopia, relaxation isn’t reserved for special occasions—it’s designed to fit seamlessly into real, everyday life. Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Brandon Carter Most of us carry more stress than we realize. It settles into our shoulders after long days at the computer, lingers in tired feet after hours on the go, and builds as the rhythm of everyday life moves faster. At Utopia Foot & Shoulder Massage in Smyrna, the goal is simple: create a place where people can set that weight...

Local Services

Lightening the Load

A business built on time, care, and empowerment Article by Stacey Scott | Photography by Ashley Putnam Every household has a few tasks that quietly keep life moving. They rarely get much attention, but they’re always there in the background—waiting, piling up, demanding just a little more time. Laundry is one of them. The basket fills after school, after sports practice, after a long day at work. Towels, uniforms, favorite sweatshirts, linens. The cycle of washing, drying, folding, and...