Friday, May 9, 2025 • Just in time to plan your weekend
An “In-Between The Issues” look at events, people, dining, and entertaining in southern Cobb County, from the publishers of The Bright Side community newspapers of southern Cobb. Deadline for the June issue is May 23rd. Contact us at [email protected].
|
|
SMYRNA PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOLD BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Smyrna Public Library will be holding their Spring Book Sale on Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18. The sale will be held in the Library’s Downstairs Meeting Room, 100 Village Green Circle, Smyrna. The sale is set for Saturday, May 17 and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 18, 1 p.m. to 4.
They will have a large selection of Hardbacks, Paperbacks, Books on CD, Movie DVDs, and Puzzles priced from $1 to $5. Cash, Check, PayPal & Venmo are accepted for payment.
|
|
Now Available! Read the May Bright Side
|
|
|
VICKERY HARDWARE SEEKS FORMER EMPLOYEES
Vickery Hardware in Smyrna will be celebrating it’s 175th anniversary in 2025. They are looking for people who previously worked at Vickery to share in the celebration.
If you worked at Vickery Hardware in the past, please contact them at
(770) 435-4567 or by email [email protected] |
|
Place your advertising in the Bright Side eWeekly for only $25 per week
(minimum of 4 weeks).
Contact Cathy Lipsett at 770-426-9388 or
by email at [email protected] for more information.
|
|
|
CUMBERLAND AREA COUNCIL OF COBB CHAMBER SPEAKER
 The June speaker of the Cumberland Area Council of the Cobb Chamber will be Charlie Beirne. He will speak at the meeting on June 4th from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Atlanta Area Council Boy Scouts of America.
Newly appointed General Manager and CEO of the Cobb Galleria Centre, Charlie Beirne, brings more than 25 years of experience managing major convention, entertainment, and performing arts venues across the country. In his new role, he is overseeing significant renovations to the Cobb Galleria Centre and guiding the strategic growth of the broader campus, including the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Galleria Specialty Shops, and the ArtsBridge Foundation.
At this Area Council, Charlie will provide an update on these upcoming developments as well as the Centre’s involvement in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. With experience leading large-scale expansion projects and national event partnerships, his perspective offers valuable insight into how the Cobb Galleria campus is evolving to meet future demands and enhance its role as a regional destination for business, culture, and tourism. |
|
TASTE OF MABLEON WAS A CROWD PLEASER
While the rain came down hard around noonish on May 3 for the Taste of Mableton, the vendors and guests hung in enjoying the delicious food, informative conversation, and fantastic music. There was a “battle of the matching bands” early in the day. Mableton’s favorite local band, Chequered Blues, took the reins to rock the classic hits from the 70’s and 80’s. Great soul R&B closed out the entertainment.
There were plenty of activities for the kids including many different inflatable rides/bounce houses. Naturally, there were a lot of food trucks to choose from including Mexican, seafood, BBQ, cornbread/pastries, Kona Ice, funnel cakes and others. Everyone who stuck around after the rain had time to enjoy the whole event. Appreciation is given to the Mableton Improvement Coalition and especially Linda Pharr for all of their help in putting on the amazing event.
|
|
COMMUNITY CELEBRATES SHARED ACHIEVEMENTS
Cobb came together on May 1, to celebrate a year of shared generosity, collaboration and impact at the second annual Activate Good event, hosted by Cobb Community Foundation (CCF). The evening marked the release of the organization’s 2024 Impact Report and recognized the powerful outcomes that result when of neighbors, donors, nonprofits and businesses working side by side.
Held at The Foxglove in downtown Marietta, the event welcomed approximately 200 guests, including community leaders, fundholders, donors, nonprofit partners and other stakeholders. Together, they reflected on a year when individuals and organizations across Cobb County didn’t just give—they activated good, united by a shared commitment to making life better for all.
“This wasn’t just a celebration—it was a rallying cry,” said Shari Martin, president and CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “At CCF, we mobilize people, ideas and resources—but real impact happens only when the community is ready to be mobilized. And like it always does, in 2024, Cobb showed up.”
Together, CCF and the Cobb community accomplished extraordinary things including more than $6.2 million in grants and scholarships that were distributed, with 68% staying right here in Cobb County.
The evening concluded with applause, gratitude and a shared sense of purpose. “Every student helped, every family lifted, every nonprofit strengthened—it all happened because our community acted together,” Martin said.
To view the full Impact Report or learn how to activate good alongside Cobb Community Foundation, visit cobbfoundation.org. |
|
GET INVOLVED AT FREEMAN POOLE SENIOR CENTER
 Seniors, are you looking for activities or need a place to meet new friends? Why not visit the Freeman Poole Senior Center located at 4025 South Hurt Road, Smyrna? Join a lunch and learn class, enjoy a cooking demonstration, play bingo or join a book reading club. Whatever your interest may be, there’s plenty to do at Freeman Poole.
Click here for a list of upcoming events.
4025 S Hurt Road, Smyrna 30082
(770-801-3400)
Visit Freeman Poole Senior Center’s website for daily activities
Veteran Connection meets the 2nd Tuesday each month at 10 a.m.
MAY
The Crafty Corner: Suncatchers
Monday, May 12 from 11:30 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
Join us for an upscale Suncatcher Craft experience! Elevate your creativity and craft your own stunning suncatcher using materials that will add elegance and charm to any space. Presented by Amanda with South Cobb Library.
Focus & Frame: Photography Basics
Wednesday, May 14 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Photography 101 is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore the art of photography! Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, this class will teach you the essential techniques and tips to capture stunning images. Learn about composition, lighting, angles, and how to make the most of your camera’s settings.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, May 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30. Free; Registration required
Freeman Poole’s Page Turners book club offers a welcoming space to engage in meaningful conversations, share insights, and discover new authors and genres. The book of the month is
Freeman Foodies
Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Antico Pizza Battery Park
2605 Circle 75 Pkwy, Atlanta
Pizza & Pals
Friday, May 16 from noon – 1:30 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Enjoy a variety of tasty pizzas, from classic favorites to creative new combinations, all while sharing laughs and making memories. It’s a casual and friendly atmosphere where everyone is welcome to relax, indulge, and connect. Grab a slice, bring your pals, and let the good times roll!
Fitness Jamboree
Monday, May 19 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free; Registration required
Join us for an empowering day of fun challenges, informative wellness demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with others while embracing the theme of “Flip the Script on Aging” – a reminder that staying active and healthy knows no age limit! Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just getting started, this event is for everyone looking to stay strong, active, and engaged in their community. Let’s move, laugh, and celebrate the wonderful journey of aging with vitality!
AARP Smart Driver
Wednesday, May 21 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please arrive by 9a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members
Registration required
Freeman’s Talent Showcase
Friday, May 23 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for a heartwarming event that celebrates the incredible skills, creativity, and stories of our talented community members! Whether it’s singing, dancing, storytelling, comedy, or any other unique talent, this event provides a stage for seniors to showcase their abilities and passions.
Dementia Friends
Thursday, May 29 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
The goal of this program is to help everyone in attendance understand the five key messages about dementia and how each of us can make a difference for people living with dementia. The discussion will center around how dementia affects people, the different types of dementia, how to differentiate between normal aging and dementia and how to effectively communicate with a person with dementia. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together) and Dementia Friends of Georgia.
Brushes & Bites
Friday, May 30 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
$15 (Supply fee paid to instructor); Registration required
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of painting and dining, as you unleash your inner artist while enjoying a variety of tasty bites. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just looking to try something new, our guided sessions will help you create a masterpiece, all while savoring a selection of delectable snacks and a fancy mocktail. Instructed by Linda Cherry.
|
|
|
BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
May
11: MOTHER’S DAY.
June
14: CREEPER’S CAR SHOW. Jim Miller Park, June 14. Features music, vendors, food trucks, a swap meet, door prize, and event t-shirts. Show is open to all years of cars, trucks, and motorcycles and all proceeds from the event benefit local and national charities that work with children.
Weekly Organizations
BOY SCOUT TROOP 1: Join Troop 1 Smyrna, where adventure meets leadership. Our vibrant Scouts BSA troop is Scout-led, thriving on teamwork, camaraderie, and the values of the Scout Oath and Law. We camp monthly, explore exciting outdoor adventures, and focus on building skills that last a lifetime. Meetings are held on Sundays from 4:30 to 6 p.m., providing a welcoming space to grow, lead, and have fun—except on holiday weekends or during our thrilling camping trips. Come be part of the adventure and discover what makes Troop 1 a community like no other. Website: troop1smyrna.com. Email: [email protected] Phone: 770-742-8858
BOY SCOUT TROOP 220 meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at Life Church Smyrna Assembly of God, 4100 King Springs Road (next to Griffin Middle School). For more information visit https://www.troopwebhost.org/Troop220Smyrna/Index.htm. https://web.cobbchamber.org/atlas/events/smyrna-area-council-state-of-the-city-11830/register
SMYRNA OPTIMIST: Meets every Friday, 7 a.m.to 8 a.m.at the Nelms Masonic Lodge. 455 Concord Road SE, Smyrna. Visitors welcome.
JONQUIL CITY INVESTMENT CLUB open membership now happening. Jonquil City Investment Club is an all-female organization that encourages women to learn more about investing and applying financial knowledge by investing small amounts of money ($25) in the stock market. We meet on the first Thursday of each month to learn from a licensed investment broker and discuss the performance of our investments. Now is a great time to invest in the stock market while it is static. Have fun with us riding the wave to the top! For additional information, contact Cindy Acker, Senior Partner, at [email protected].
THE JONQUIL CITY KIWANIS CLUB meets on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. at the Wolfe Center at 884 Church St. Smyrna,30080. All are welcome. Please come early for fellowship and refreshments.
SMYRNA BNI: Smyrna Business Exchange BNI, the largest and most successful BNI Chapter in all North Georgia (including the Atlanta Metro area) meets Thursday mornings from 7 a.m. until 8:30 (networking, coffee and breakfast starting at 6:45 a.m.) The group meets at Smyrna First Baptist Church, 1275 Church St SE, Smyrna. Enter behind the church in the “Welcome Center.” You can reach them online at: bniatl.com
TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS! T-Toasters of Vinings is once again holding live meetings every Wednesday night starting at 6 p.m. Our meetings are held at 2727 Paces Ferry Rd, Building 2 in the 3rd floor conference room. Look for our banner and come join the fun! For more information visit t-toasters.com or email [email protected].
VININGS CUMBERLAND ROTARY CLUB. In person weekly meeting, and on zoom, every Wednesday at 12 noon. The meetings are held at Copeland’s of New Orleans, 3101 Cobb Parkway, Vinings. For more information, go to viningsrotary.org, or contact Shawn Bendig at [email protected] or 404-374-6027
SMYRNA ROTARY CLUB meets Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m. Join for a warm welcome, great fellowship, wonderful speakers, and community, national and international service projects. For more information, email Smyrna Rotary Club at [email protected].
GIRL SCOUTS. Girl Scout Troop 625 (K – 6th Grades) is recruiting! We have age level meetings for Mondays or Thursdays at Austell First United Methodist Church. Contact us at 470-399-3629 or [email protected].
Groups
RELATIONSHIPS IN RECOVERY. The oldest meeting on campus meets every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. in the Pro North building at Ridgeview Institute, 3995 S. Cobb Drive, Smyrna. A 12-step format meeting helping people in relationships with the many aspects of recovery.
E-mail your organization’s calendar news to [email protected]. Please send in a Word format as short as possible and no flyers. Calendar items also go into the electronic weekly every Friday. To subscribe to the eWeekly go to www.brightsidecobb.com and click on the red button.
|
|
|
NOTES AND NOTICES
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
MONTHLY RECYCLING CENTER TOURS. The City of Smyrna Recycling Center offers monthly tours on the third Friday of the month (except for holidays) at 9 am. You can register to attend by visiting: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/education/
SERVICES
GOOD RASCAL DOG TRAINING: Certified Dog Trainer offers Private Dog Training in your home or other mutually convenient location. Positive, gentle methods make training fun for dog and owner. Licensed, Bonded and Insured. For details, see our website: www.mygoodrascal.com. To set up a consultation, email: [email protected] or call 770-401-7945.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT. Throughout the fall, Keep Smyrna Beautiful will continue regular volunteer events, including Community Cleanups, Storm Drain Marking, and Adopt-a-Mile. Interested in volunteering? Fill out our online volunteer application, which can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/volunteer/
HELP WANTED
AD SALES POSITION OPEN. The Bright Side newspaper is looking for a self-starter to join our team in advertising sales. The motivated team member will be able to call on local businesses to tell them about advertising opportunities with The Bright Side. This is a 1099 commission position with lots of potential for the right person. If interested in interviewing, contact Cathy Lipsett at 770-426-9388 or by email [email protected]
EXTRA COPIES
EXTRA COPIES: Looking for an extra copy of The Bright Side? Copies are available each month in the Smyrna Library, the Smyrna Community Center, and Jonquil Publix Atlanta Road, Smyrna; Mableton Pharmacy, Floyd Road Kroger; and in Austell: The Treadmill. Also available at advertiser locations. On our website, www.brightsidecobb.com, sign up for out electronic weekly that has more local news and calendar items every Friday.
PLACING NOTES AND NOTICES ADS: Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, or in –home child care? We accept short reader ads for a fee of $25 per 50 words. The ads, with check, should be mailed or delivered to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. Ad copy should also be e-mailed to: [email protected]. Check or credit card payments accepted. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. Home sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to [email protected]
|
|
|
WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS AND ADVERTISING FOR THE MAY BRIGHT SIDE.
REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side.
Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business. I also welcome good news about people in the community. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at [email protected]
You can now read the print and the electronic editions of The Bright Side anytime on my website: www.brightsidecobb.com. In addition to direct mail delivery to homes, extra print copies of The Bright Side are available at the Smyrna Public Library, at the Jonquil Publix on Atlanta Road, Smyrna Kroger on South Cobb Drive and at Vickery Hardware. Also available at the Treadmill, Austell, the Floyd Road Kroger and Mableton Pharmacy.
Cathy Lipsett
Publisher/owner, The Bright Side Newspaper for Southern Cobb
The electronic weekly is a publication of Lipsett and Associates, Inc., publisher of The Bright Side Newspaper. Publisher and editor is Cathy Lipsett with electronic design by Peter Lipsett.
|
|
Advertisers: Reach New Customers
Advertisers, the Bright Side is the best way to reach thousands of homes within a few minutes driving time of your business. The deadline for each issue is the 23rd of the month. Publication is the first week of the upcoming month. Send to [email protected].
Notes And Notices
Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, in-home child care? We accept short reader ads (up to 50 words) for a fee of $25 per month.
Email the ad to [email protected] and send checks to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd. Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. (No copy accepted by phone) and received prior to our deadline of the 23rd of each month. Publication is in the first week of the following month. We also accept credit card payment. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. House for sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to [email protected].
|
|
|
|
