Bright Side News for Jan. 17, 2025

January 17, 2025 by

In this issue,

  • COBB CELEBRATES MLK DAY
  • REV COFFMAN HONORED AT RETIREMENT LUNCHEON
  • ELECTION SET FOR TWO COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS
  • DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE IN SMYRNA
  • NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS

Plus all the latest local events!

Bright Side News for January 17, 2025
View this email in your browser

Friday, January 17, 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 Februay issue is January 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.


COBB CELEBRATES MLK DAY 

To celebrate MLK DAY, the Cobb County, the NAACP will host its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration. The celebration, Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365, will be held from 10 a.m. – noon, Monday, Jan. 20 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, SE, Marietta.

On Monday city and county offices will be closed, including the schools and the Smyrna library. 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on the third Monday of January, is a federal holiday honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a key leader in the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King dedicated his life to fighting for racial equality, justice, and nonviolent social change. 
Now Available! Read the January Bright Side


       


REV COFFMAN HONORED AT RETIREMENT LUNCHEON

Rev. Raymond Coffman was recently honored at a Retirement Luncheon to honor his 30 years as Chaplain at Wellstar Health Systems. Pictured here are, from left, Executive Director, Spiritual Health Rev. John Betz; Rev. Raymond Coffman, Manager of Spiritual Health Cobb Medical Center; and Director, Spiritual Health Rev. Sarah Murray 

Raymond was acknowledged for his dedication and service. Sarah Murray stated, ” Raymond has exhibited a deep compassion for patients and their loved ones, and a unique sensitivity to people of all faith backgrounds.” 


ELECTION SET FOR TWO COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS

Thought the election season was over? That would be incorrect. The election season continues with two commission posts needing to be filled. A Cobb County Superior Court Judge ordered this special election after ruling the county’s use of home rule powers to draw its commission maps was unconstitutional.

The Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration (BOER) set the dates for the Special Elections for Cobb County Commissioner Districts 2 and 4. Those seats are currently held by Jerica Richardson in District Two and Monique Sheffield in District Four.

The Primary Election will take place on Feb. 11, with advance voting beginning on February 1. If necessary, a runoff election will take place on March 11. The General Special Election will take place on April 29. Only Cobb Commission Districts 2 and 4 voters will be eligible to vote in this special election.

Democrat candidates for District two Commissioner include: Jaha Howard, Erick Allen, Tracy Stevenson, and Taniesha Whorton. Republican candidate for District two Commissioner is Alicia Adams.

Democrat candidates for District four Commissioner include: Yashica Marshall and Monique Sheffield (incumbent). Republican candidates for District four Commissioner are Julien Grhas and Matthew Hardwick. 
 
 


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 cslipsett@att.net for more information.
READ THE BRIGHT SIDE  PRINT EDITION OR
ELECTRONIC  WEEKLY ANY TIME
AT OUR WEB SITE WWW.BRIGHTSIDECOBB.COM


VOLUNTEERS HELP WITH BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER

Get ready for a night of neon and nostalgia at our 80’s themed Dance. The Smyrna Recreation’s Daddy Daughter Dance is set for Friday February 7th at the Smyrna Community Center. The dance is planned for daughters up to 12 years old. Cost per couple is $60 and an additional $15 per additional sibling.  The dance is Friday, February 7th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Register Here.


NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS 

Nominations and applications are now open for Small Business of the Year Awards 2024  by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. This year’s awards include six categories: Businesses to Watch, Small Business of the Year, Next-Level Excellence, Community Service Excellence, Women-Owned Business of the Year, Minority-Owned Business of the Year, and Veteran-Owned Business of the Year. These awards recognize the organizations that are writing Cobb County’s next chapter in business.

Know a deserving company? Nominations are open now through February 6.

Applications close February 27. Winners will be announced at the Small Business of the Year Luncheon on May 12, 2025 at the Coca-Cola Roxy. Thank you to Presenting Sponsors LOUD Security Systems Inc. and S.A. White Oil Company. Learn more and apply.

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.

JANUARY

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, January 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Casa Grande 
2810 East-West Connector, Austell

Candle Making Class 
Tuesday, January 21 from 1 p.m. – 2
$40 (Supplies & instructor fee); Registration required
Join us for a hands-on, creative candle making class where you’ll learn the art of crafting your very own candles from scratch! Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for anyone looking to explore the soothing, creative process of candle making. 

Understanding Joint Pain 
Wednesday, January 22 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Joint pain is a common health concern affecting people of all ages. It can range from mild discomfort to severe disability, impacting one’s quality of life. This presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of joint pain, including its underlying causes, common conditions that result in joint pain, and current treatment options to help manage and alleviate symptoms. Presented by PT Solutions of Smyrna. 

Bingo Bash 
Monday, January 27 from noon – 2 p.m. 
$3; Registration required  
Fundraiser to benefit Freeman Poole Senior Center. 

Affirmation Jars Craft 
Wednesday, January 29 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
It is the beginning of a new year, and also the month that we celebrate ourselves. Join us in making your very own affirmation jar which will help you remember your positive qualities and strengths that will affirm the amazing and unique individual that you are. 

FEBRUARY

Guitar Lessons with Cliff 
Tuesday, February 4 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
A beginner guitar lesson with Cliff offers a relaxed and supportive environment to start your musical journey. Cliff, a friendly and patient instructor, focuses on building a solid foundation for new guitar players. Whether you’re picking up the guitar for the first time or just starting to explore basic chords and strumming, Cliff will guide you through the process step-by-step. This is a 10-week class; guitars will be provided. Hosted by Cliff with Guitars for Vets.

Backyard Birding and Making Suet 
Thursday, February 6 from 1 p.m. – 2. Free; Registration required
Do you love birds and want more of them in your backyard? Join us for beginner tips on identifying birds, using bird feeders, planting to attract songbirds, and handling predators. We’ll also talk about the importance of streamside habitats in protecting water quality and providing migratory routes for birds. Additionally, you will learn how to make suet seed balls for your backyard birds. This program is presented by Cobb County Water System.

Trip to the Apex Museum 
Friday, February 7 from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m0
$14 (Transportation and Entry Fee); Registration required
A trip to the Apex Museum offers a captivating journey into the heart of African American history and culture. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the museum provides a profound and educational experience, showcasing a rich collection of exhibits that explore the historical contributions, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans. Check-in at 9:30am at C. Freeman Poole; the bus departs at 10am. 

Friday Film Series 
Friday, February 7, 21 and 28 from 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
$1 Concessions; Registration required 
Join us at the center for a fun movie in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere every Friday this month except Friday 14 (Valentine’s Day). Don’t miss out on freshly popped butter popcorn to make this Friday a fun one!

Vaccine Clinic 
Monday, February 10 from 10 a.m. – 11. Free; Registration required
Our friends from Cobb and Douglas Public Health will be back to get you up to date with your Shingles vaccine. They will also have flu and COVID vaccines available if needed. Bring your ID and insurance information.

Heart Health Conversation 
Monday, February 10 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
This presentation on heart health provides an informative and comprehensive overview of the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and the steps individuals can take to prevent heart disease. The main objective is to raise awareness about the heart’s role in overall health, highlight the risks of cardiovascular disease, and offer practical advice for heart disease prevention. Presented by the UGA Extension of Cobb County. 

Welcome to C. Freeman Poole 
Wednesday, February 12 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Whether you are new or have been a long-time member of C. Freeman Poole, you are invited to come and learn more about our center, the programs we offer, meet our team, take a tour of our center, and offer suggestions about activities, events, or seminars you would like to see offered. 

Hearing Screening 
Thursday, February 13 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Call the center or come in to schedule your free hearing screening. Screenings provided by Leah Beltz, the Hearing Aid Lady.  

Dancing Through the Years 
Friday, February 14 from 12:30 p.m.  – 2 p.m. 
$15; Registration required
C. Freeman Poole offers a unique and heartwarming way to celebrate the season of love. With its nostalgic twist, lively atmosphere, and romantic energy, “Dancing Through the Years” is an unforgettable experience that allows guests to dance their way through time, honoring the timeless connection between music, love, and celebration. Enjoy an array of hors d’oeuvres, drinks, music, camaraderie, and love. Registration will close on Monday February 10. 

Woven Heart Garlands Craft 
Monday, February 17 from noon – 2 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us in making a charming and creative DIY project perfect for celebrating this season of love. Presented by South Cobb Library. 

Beneath the Ink: Reading of Black Poems 
Monday, February 17 from noon – 2 p.m.
Free; Registration required
There is much more to poetry than the words on the page—poetry often reflects layers of deeper meaning, emotion, and experience, especially within the context of Black culture and history. Join us as we celebrate poems by Black poets. Offering a platform for them to share their work and engage with you.  

The Freeman Poole Page Turners 
Thursday, February 20 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Whether you’re a lover of literary fiction, thrillers, historical narratives, or thought-provoking non-fiction, Freeman Poole’s Page Turners book club offers a welcoming space to engage in meaningful conversations, share insights, and discover new authors and genres. We meet monthly to dive into our chosen book, enjoying spirited discussions, and connecting with fellow book enthusiasts who share the joy of reading. Join us as we embark on a journey through words, uncovering new perspectives, and enriching our love of literature in an atmosphere where all voices are heard, and every opinion matters. Hosted by South Cobb Library. 

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, February 21 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Lunch on your own; Registration required
T’s Brunch Bar 
1615 Cumberland Mall, 

Bingo Bash 
Monday, February 24 from noon – 2 p.m. 
$3; Registration required  
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available. 

AARP Smart Driver 
Wednesday, February 26 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Please arrive by 9 a.m. 
$20 AARP members, $25 Non-members; Payable to instructor
Registration required
Check with your insurance agent about a possible discount for taking this class. Bring a lunch.

BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR 
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL

January 2025

28: JONQUIL GARDEN CLUB. The Jonquil Garden Club meeting for January will be held Tuesday January 28th, at Smyrna Public Library, 100 Village Green Circle, Smyrna from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. This month’s presentation will be presented by Candace Cook from Cobb County Parks and Recreation Department. Ms. Cook will be speaking about the Cherokee Indian Gardens in Marietta. Each meeting includes information on horticulture and a presentation that will enhance your knowledge of gardening. New members are always welcome! Jonquil Garden Club includes members from novice to master gardeners. For more information visit our Facebook page (Jonquil Garden Club of Smyrna, GA) or contact our President, Michele Cox at jgcprez@gmail.com.

February

7: DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE SMYRNA. Register at Catalog – Recreate Smyrna

11:  SPECIAL PRIMARY ELECTION FOR COUNTY COMMISSION 

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: troop1smyrna@gmail.com  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 American Legion Post 160, located at 160 Legion Drive. 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 jcic2004@yahoo.com.

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 amberenson@gmail.com.

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 shawnbendig@att.net 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 f2@nfiweb.com.

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 troop625rocks@gmail.com.
 

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 news@brightsidecobb.com. 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

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN: Keep Smyrna Beautiful offers a $4,500 scholarship for a student currently pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in an environmentally related field. Applications are due March 2, 2025. Must be a resident of Smyrna or currently enrolled in Campbell High School or Whitefield Academy. More details here: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/school-partnerships/

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

PINE STRAW SALE. Boy Scout Troop 1 is holding a pine straw sale. They offer free curbside delivery. Website: troop1smyrna.com. Email: troop1smyrna@gmail.com  Phone: 770-742-8858

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: gary@mygoodrascal.com 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 cslipsett@att.net


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: ads@brightsidecobb.com. 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com

BRIGHT SIDE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING 


REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. Let an ad in The Bright Side help attract new customers or clients to your business. Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business in the print and electronic editions. I am also looking for news of events for this February edition with a deadline of January 27. I welcome good news about people in the community at any time. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

And if you know someone who would like to receive our electronic weekly edition, have them visit my website at brightsidecobb.com, click on the red button, and fill out the information. Can I save a space for your advertising? Call me at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

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 and at Vickery Hardware, 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
 
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 ads@brightsidecobb.com 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
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Bright Side News for Jan. 3, 2025

January 3, 2025 by

Happy New Year! In this issue we cover:

  • BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER
  • SMYRNA LIBRARY CLOSED THROUGH JANUARY 5
  • SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER REOPENS JANUARY 11
  • CHABAD HELD GELT DROP MENORAH LIGHTING
  • COBB CHAMBER: NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS
  • SBA JANUARY MEETING AT CARMICHAEL’S
  • QUARTERLY MEETING AT SMRYNA CITY HALL

Plus all the latest local events.

Bright Side News for January 3, 2025
View this email in your browser

Friday, January 3, 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 Februay issue is January 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.


BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER

Keep Smyrna Beautiful is once again sponsoring their annual Bring One for the Chipper. This is a Christmas Tree recycling program to turn live trees into mulch. This year’s Chipper event will be on Saturday, January 4 at the Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Parkway, in Vinings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Trees should be live, unbound, and free of flocking and other decorations. They will be recycled into much. Seedlings will be available as supplies last.
 
Read the Nov/Dec Bright Side


       

SMYRNA LIBRARY CLOSED THROUGH JAN. 5, COMMUNITY CENTER THROUGH JAN. 10

SMYRNA LIBRARY

Due to scheduled upgrades to the library’s HVAC systems, Smyrna Library will be closed Monday, December 23, through Sunday, January 5, 2025. We apologize for the inconvenience. No physical library materials will be due until January 6, 2025.

CURBSIDE PICKUP will be available from 1-5 p.m. for select days:
Monday, December 23; Thursday, December 26; Friday, December 27; Saturday, December 28
Sunday, December 29; Monday, December 30; Thursday, January 2; Friday, January 3; Saturday, January 4; and Sunday, January 5

To use the Curbside Pickup Service, place holds on the materials you wish to check out. Then visit Smyrna Library to pick up your materials. Instructions for pick up will be posted at the library. 
 

SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

The Smyrna Community Center will close Friday, December 20 for maintenance. Normal operations will resume on Saturday, January 11.


CHABAD HELD GELT DROP MENORAH LIGHTING

On Monday, Dec. 30, Chabad Smyrna Vinings hosted a Giant Gelt Drop and Menorah Lighting at Brawner Hall, Smyrna.  The indoor/outdoor event featured face painting, balloons, music, and Chanukah treats including chocolate gelt raining down from the sky.  

Smyrna Firefighters were onsite handing out toy firefighting helmets and helping with the gelt drop. 

Chanukah is a Jewish holiday observed for eight days, this year running Dec. 25 – Jan. 2. According to the story, when the ancient Temple in Jerusalem was being rededicated, there was only enough oil for one day. But a miracle happened and the oil lasted eight days. The eight-branched menorah represents that miracle.

 Gelt is money given as presents during the Jewish festival of Chanukah. It is typically given to children, often as part of the traditional dreidel game. Candy manufacturers offer Chanukah-themed chocolate coins wrapped in gold or silver foil, as a supplement to real money gifts.


NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS 

Nominations and applications are now open for Small Business of the Year Awards 2024  by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. This year’s awards include six categories: Businesses to Watch, Small Business of the Year, Next-Level Excellence, Community Service Excellence, Women-Owned Business of the Year, Minority-Owned Business of the Year, and Veteran-Owned Business of the Year. These awards recognize the organizations that are writing Cobb County’s next chapter in business.

Know a deserving company? Nominations are open now through February 6.

Applications close February 27. Winners will be announced at the Small Business of the Year Luncheon on May 12, 2025 at the Coca-Cola Roxy. Thank you to Presenting Sponsors LOUD Security Systems Inc. and S.A. White Oil Company. Learn more and apply.

SBA JANUARY MEETING AT CARMICHAEL’S

The January networking luncheon of the Smyrna Business Association will be held at the Carmichael Funeral Home Special Events Building, 2950 King St SE, Smyrna, on Thursday January 9, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

The January Networking Luncheon Speaker will be Farrell Middleton, President and Founder of Bell Curve of Life. A Georgia Tech honors graduate (1986), he brings 36 years of experience in residential development and homebuilding. His coaching program focuses on helping individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through improved attitudes, leadership, communication, and team dynamics. After managing successful ventures since age 22, he transitioned from his business career in 2022 to focus on helping others reach their full potential. Click here for registration.


QUARTERLY MEETING AT CITY HALL

On Sunday, three Smyrna city council members will hold a quarterly meeting at city hall. Wards 1, 3 and 6 will hold a meeting beginning at 4:30 and ending at 5:30 p.m. to give updates from the city. Councilmen Glenn Pickens, Travis Lindley and Tim Gould will be on hand at city hall, 2800 King Street, Smyrna. The meeting is free and open to the public.
       


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 cslipsett@att.net for more information.

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.

JANUARY

Write Your Story 
Monday, January 6 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Don’t we all have a story inside us?  If you have ever thought you wanted to write a book, whether fiction or nonfiction, this is the class for you!  Bring your dreams of writing, big and small, to fruition and leave a legacy for generations to come. This is a course to solve your writer’s block and inspire you to put pen to paper whether writing your own story or a legacy fictional novel.  You will be shown how to get started and get serious about writing your story. This is a 4-week class. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together)

Welcome to C. Freeman Poole 
Thursday, January 9 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Free; Registration required
Whether you are new or have been coming to C. Freeman Poole for a long time, you are invited to come and learn more about our center, the programs we offer, meet our team, take a tour of our center, and offer suggestions about activities, events or seminars you would like to see offered. 

Sip & Savor Tea Tasting 
Friday, January 10 from noon – 1 p.m. 
$10; Registration required
Join us for an afternoon of elegance and indulgence as we host a delicious tea tasting. Enjoy an exquisite selection of finely brewed teas, accompanied by delicious finger sandwiches, delectable pastries while learning about the benefits tea has on our health. Hosted by Fruitea Bubbles Café.

Computer Basics with South Cobb Library 
Monday, January 13 and Thursday, January 23
From 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
If you are new to computers, haven’t used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or just need a bit of a refresher, then this class is for you. These classes are designed to help you tackle technology and gain the confidence you need to succeed. There are two sessions in this class, please be present for both. Presented by South Cobb Regional Library.

Vision Board 
Tuesday, January 14 from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Free; Registration required
Are you ready to set your intentions and manifest your dreams for the future? Join us for a Vision Board Party, where we’ll come together to get creative, reflect on our goals, and create visual representations of everything we want to achieve while also focusing on mindfulness in the moment. Presented by UGA Cobb Extension. 

Organizing and Downsizing Your Home #43389
Thursday, January 16 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Discover practical tips and compassionate strategies to ease the process of downsizing your home. Whether you are planning to move or creating a more manageable space, this presentation will be beneficial to you. Presented by Caring Transitions of Smyrna and Dallas, Ga. 

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, January 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Casa Grande 
2810 East-West Connector, Austell

Candle Making Class 
Tuesday, January 21 from 1 p.m. – 2
$40 (Supplies & instructor fee); Registration required
Join us for a hands-on, creative candle making class where you’ll learn the art of crafting your very own candles from scratch! Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for anyone looking to explore the soothing, creative process of candle making. 

Understanding Joint Pain 
Wednesday, January 22 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Joint pain is a common health concern affecting people of all ages. It can range from mild discomfort to severe disability, impacting one’s quality of life. This presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of joint pain, including its underlying causes, common conditions that result in joint pain, and current treatment options to help manage and alleviate symptoms. Presented by PT Solutions of Smyrna. 

Bingo Bash 
Monday, January 27 from noon – 2 p.m. 
$3; Registration required  
Fundraiser to benefit Freeman Poole Senior Center. 

Affirmation Jars Craft 
Wednesday, January 29 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
It is the beginning of a new year, and also the month that we celebrate ourselves. Join us in making your very own affirmation jar which will help you remember your positive qualities and strengths that will affirm the amazing and unique individual that you are. 

BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR 
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL


January 2025

4:  BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER: January 4. Instead of sending your tree to the landfill, recycle it! KSB will hold this annual event on Saturday, January 4, at The Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Vinings. Details can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/bring-one-for-the-chipper/

Weekly Organizations
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 American Legion Post 160, located at 160 Legion Drive. 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 jcic2004@yahoo.com.

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 amberenson@gmail.com.

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 shawnbendig@att.net 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 f2@nfiweb.com.

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 troop625rocks@gmail.com.
 

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 news@brightsidecobb.com. 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

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN: Keep Smyrna Beautiful offers a $4,500 scholarship for a student currently pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in an environmentally related field. Applications are due March 2, 2025. Must be a resident of Smyrna or currently enrolled in Campbell High School or Whitefield Academy. More details here: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/school-partnerships/

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: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.

INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTING: Give your home a NEW LOOK for fall! Have a professional Interior Designer arrange your furniture and accessories to look their best, give you design ideas, and a plan for future purchases. Full Interior Design Services also available. Call or text Creative Interiors 404-569-9665

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: ads@brightsidecobb.com. 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com
 

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 cslipsett@att.net


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.

BRIGHT SIDE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING 


NEW ADVERTISERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME AT THE BRIGHT SIDE


REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. Let an ad in The Bright Side help attract new customers or clients to your business. Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business in the print and electronic editions. I am also looking for news of events for this New Year edition. I welcome good news about people in the community at any time. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

And if you know someone who would like to receive our electronic weekly edition, have them visit my website at brightsidecobb.com, click on the red button, and fill out the information. Can I save a space for your advertising? Call me at 77-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

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 and at Vickery Hardware, 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
 
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 ads@brightsidecobb.com 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
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Bright Side News for December 27, 2024

December 27, 2024 by

In this final issue of 2024, look for stories on:

  • GIANT GELT DROP AND CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING
  • BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER
  • LIBRARY CLOSURE NOTICES

Plus the latest events in town. Happy New Year!

Bright Side News for December 27, 2024
View this email in your browser

Friday, December 27, 2024 • 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 January issue is December 30th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.

GOODBYE 2024
and
HELLO 2025


GIANT GELT DROP AND CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING

Chabad Smyrna Vinings will host a Giant Gelt Drop and Menorah Lighting on December 30 at 5:30 p.m. This special event will be held at Brawner Hall, 3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna. The indoor/outdoor event features face painting, balloons, music, and Chanukah treats including chocolate gelt raining down from the sky. Smyrna Firefighters will also be onsite handing out toy firefighting helmets

What’s the Story Behind Chanukah and the Menorah? Chanukah is a Jewish holiday observed for eight days, this year running Dec. 25 – Jan. 2. According to the story, when the ancient Temple in Jerusalem was being rededicated, there was only enough oil for one day. But a miracle happened and the oil lasted eight days. The eight-branched menorah represents that miracle.

What’s Gelt? Gelt is money given as presents during the Jewish festival of Chanukah. It is typically given to children, often as part of the traditional dreidel game. Candy manufacturers offer Chanukah-themed chocolate coins wrapped in gold or silver foil, as a supplement to real money gifts.
 
Read the Nov/Dec Bright Side


       


BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER

Keep Smyrna Beautiful is once again sponsoring their annual Bring One for the Chipper. This is a Christmas Tree recycling program to turn live trees into mulch. This year’s Chipper event will be on January 4 at the Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Parkway, in Vinings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Trees should be live, unbound, and free of flocking and other decorations. They will be recycled into much. Seedlings will be available as supplies last.
       


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 cslipsett@att.net for more information.

CLOSURE NOTICES

SMYRNA LIBRARY

Due to scheduled upgrades to the library’s HVAC systems, Smyrna Library will be closed Monday, December 23, through Sunday, January 5, 2025. We apologize for the inconvenience. No physical library materials will be due until January 6, 2025.

CURBSIDE PICKUP will be available from 1-5 p.m. for select days:
Monday, December 23; Thursday, December 26; Friday, December 27; Saturday, December 28
Sunday, December 29; Monday, December 30; Thursday, January 2; Friday, January 3; Saturday, January 4; and Sunday, January 5

To use the Curbside Pickup Service, place holds on the materials you wish to check out. Then visit Smyrna Library to pick up your materials. Instructions for pick up will be posted at the library. 
 

SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

The Smyrna Community Center will close Friday, December 20 for maintenance. Normal operations will resume on Saturday, January 11.

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.

DECEMBER

Toast to the New Year 
Tuesday, December 31 from 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Free; Registration required 
Happy New Year! Let’s share a toast to our family, and a toast to our friends, far and near. A toast to the things that are yet to come and to the memories that we hold

JANUARY

Understanding Civic Rec: Registering for Classes and Programs 
Thursday, January 2 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Learn to use Cobb County’s online registration system, Civic Rec, to register for classes from home— just in time for winter classes! Bring a smartphone, tablet, or laptop that you will use for registration. Presented by CFP Staff. 

Winterize Your Home 
Friday, January 3 from 10:3 0.a.m – 11:30 a.m. Free; Registration required
Learn the importance of winterizing your faucets, irrigation system, and gardens before the cold weather arrives. Find out what tasks can be done by a homeowner and which ones require a professional. Presented by the Cobb County Water System.

First Friday Films 
Friday, January 3 from 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
$1 Concessions; Registration required 
Join us at the center for a fun movie in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss out on freshly popped butter popcorn to make this Friday a fun one!

Write Your Story 
Monday, January 6 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Don’t we all have a story inside us?  If you have ever thought you wanted to write a book, whether fiction or nonfiction, this is the class for you!  Bring your dreams of writing, big and small, to fruition and leave a legacy for generations to come. This is a course to solve your writer’s block and inspire you to put pen to paper whether writing your own story or a legacy fictional novel.  You will be shown how to get started and get serious about writing your story. This is a 4-week class. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together)

Welcome to C. Freeman Poole 
Thursday, January 9 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Free; Registration required
Whether you are new or have been coming to C. Freeman Poole for a long time, you are invited to come and learn more about our center, the programs we offer, meet our team, take a tour of our center, and offer suggestions about activities, events or seminars you would like to see offered. 

Sip & Savor Tea Tasting 
Friday, January 10 from noon – 1 p.m. 
$10; Registration required
Join us for an afternoon of elegance and indulgence as we host a delicious tea tasting. Enjoy an exquisite selection of finely brewed teas, accompanied by delicious finger sandwiches, delectable pastries while learning about the benefits tea has on our health. Hosted by Fruitea Bubbles Café.

Computer Basics with South Cobb Library 
Monday, January 13 and Thursday, January 23
From 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
If you are new to computers, haven’t used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or just need a bit of a refresher, then this class is for you. These classes are designed to help you tackle technology and gain the confidence you need to succeed. There are two sessions in this class, please be present for both. Presented by South Cobb Regional Library.

Vision Board 
Tuesday, January 14 from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Free; Registration required
Are you ready to set your intentions and manifest your dreams for the future? Join us for a Vision Board Party, where we’ll come together to get creative, reflect on our goals, and create visual representations of everything we want to achieve while also focusing on mindfulness in the moment. Presented by UGA Cobb Extension. 

Organizing and Downsizing Your Home #43389
Thursday, January 16 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Discover practical tips and compassionate strategies to ease the process of downsizing your home. Whether you are planning to move or creating a more manageable space, this presentation will be beneficial to you. Presented by Caring Transitions of Smyrna and Dallas, Ga. 

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, January 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Casa Grande 
2810 East-West Connector, Austell

BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR 
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL


December

23 – JANUARY 3: COBB SCHOOLS WINTER HOLIDAY

30: MENORAH LIGHTING AND GELT DROP. Brawner Hall, 3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna 

January 2025

4:  BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER: January 4. Instead of sending your tree to the landfill, recycle it! KSB will hold this annual event on Saturday, January 4, at The Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Vinings. Details can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/bring-one-for-the-chipper/

Weekly Organizations
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 American Legion Post 160, located at 160 Legion Drive. 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 jcic2004@yahoo.com.

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 amberenson@gmail.com.

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 shawnbendig@att.net 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 f2@nfiweb.com.

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 troop625rocks@gmail.com.
 

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 news@brightsidecobb.com. 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

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN: Keep Smyrna Beautiful offers a $4,500 scholarship for a student currently pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in an environmentally related field. Applications are due March 2, 2025. Must be a resident of Smyrna or currently enrolled in Campbell High School or Whitefield Academy. More details here: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/school-partnerships/

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: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.

INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTING: Give your home a NEW LOOK for fall! Have a professional Interior Designer arrange your furniture and accessories to look their best, give you design ideas, and a plan for future purchases. Full Interior Design Services also available. Call or text Creative Interiors 404-569-9665

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: ads@brightsidecobb.com. 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com
 

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 cslipsett@att.net


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.

BRIGHT SIDE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING 


NEW ADVERTISERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME AT THE BRIGHT SIDE


REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. Let an ad in The Bright Side help attract new customers or clients to your business. Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business in the print and electronic editions. I am also looking for news of events for this New Year edition with a deadline of December 30. I welcome good news about people in the community at any time. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

And if you know someone who would like to receive our electronic weekly edition, have them visit my website at brightsidecobb.com, click on the red button, and fill out the information. Can I save a space for your advertising? Call me at 77-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

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 and at Vickery Hardware, 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
 
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 ads@brightsidecobb.com 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
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3330 Cumberland Blvd SE
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Vinings, GA 30339-5997

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Filed Under: Blog, Current, News

Bright Side E-Weekly for Dec. 20, 2024

December 26, 2024 by

In this issue:

  • CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES IN SMYRNA
  • GIANT GELT DROP AND CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING
  • BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER
  • LIBRARY CLOSURE NOTICES

Plus the latest community events.

Bright Side News for December 20, 2024
View this email in your browser

Friday, December 20, 2024 • 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 January issue is December 27th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.


CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES IN SMYRNA

There will be Christmas Eve services at churches throughout the Smyrna Vinings Mableton area. Check the local churches web sites or Facebook pages for times and locations. Services range from afternoon to evening services.
Read the Nov/Dec Bright Side


       


GIANT GELT DROP AND CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING

Chabad Smyrna Vinings will host a Giant Gelt Drop and Menorah Lighting on December 30 at 5:30 p.m. This special event will be held at Brawner Hall, 3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna. The indoor/outdoor event features face painting, balloons, music, and Chanukah treats including chocolate gelt raining down from the sky. Smyrna Firefighters will also be onsite handing out toy firefighting helmets

What’s the Story Behind Chanukah and the Menorah? Chanukah is a Jewish holiday observed for eight days, this year running Dec. 25 – Jan. 2. According to the story, when the ancient Temple in Jerusalem was being rededicated, there was only enough oil for one day. But a miracle happened and the oil lasted eight days. The eight-branched menorah represents that miracle.

What’s Gelt? Gelt is money given as presents during the Jewish festival of Chanukah. It is typically given to children, often as part of the traditional dreidel game. Candy manufacturers offer Chanukah-themed chocolate coins wrapped in gold or silver foil, as a supplement to real money gifts.


BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER

Keep Smyrna Beautiful is once again sponsoring their annual Bring One for the Chipper. This is a Christmas Tree recycling program to turn live trees into mulch. This year’s Chipper event will be on January 4 at the Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Parkway, in Vinings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Trees should be live, unbound, and free of flocking and other decorations. They will be recycled into much. Seedlings will be available as supplies last.
       


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 cslipsett@att.net for more information.

CLOSURE NOTICES

SMYRNA LIBRARY

Due to scheduled upgrades to the library’s HVAC systems, Smyrna Library will be closed Monday, December 23, through Sunday, January 5, 2025. We apologize for the inconvenience. No physical library materials will be due until January 6, 2025.

CURBSIDE PICKUP will be available from 1-5 p.m. for select days:
Monday, December 23; Thursday, December 26; Friday, December 27; Saturday, December 28
Sunday, December 29; Monday, December 30; Thursday, January 2; Friday, January 3; Saturday, January 4; and Sunday, January 5

To use the Curbside Pickup Service, place holds on the materials you wish to check out. Then visit Smyrna Library to pick up your materials. Instructions for pick up will be posted at the library. 
 

SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

The Smyrna Community Center will close Friday, December 20 for maintenance. Normal operations will resume on Saturday, January 11.

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.

DECEMBER

Toast to the New Year 
Tuesday, December 31 from 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Free; Registration required 
Happy New Year! Let’s share a toast to our family, and a toast to our friends, far and near. A toast to the things that are yet to come and to the memories that we hold. 

JANUARY

Understanding Civic Rec: Registering for Classes and Programs 
Thursday, January 2 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Learn to use Cobb County’s online registration system, Civic Rec, to register for classes from home— just in time for winter classes! Bring a smartphone, tablet, or laptop that you will use for registration. Presented by CFP Staff. 

Winterize Your Home 
Friday, January 3 from 10:3 0.a.m – 11:30 a.m. Free; Registration required
Learn the importance of winterizing your faucets, irrigation system, and gardens before the cold weather arrives. Find out what tasks can be done by a homeowner and which ones require a professional. Presented by the Cobb County Water System.

First Friday Films 
Friday, January 3 from 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
$1 Concessions; Registration required 
Join us at the center for a fun movie in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss out on freshly popped butter popcorn to make this Friday a fun one!

Write Your Story 
Monday, January 6 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Don’t we all have a story inside us?  If you have ever thought you wanted to write a book, whether fiction or nonfiction, this is the class for you!  Bring your dreams of writing, big and small, to fruition and leave a legacy for generations to come. This is a course to solve your writer’s block and inspire you to put pen to paper whether writing your own story or a legacy fictional novel.  You will be shown how to get started and get serious about writing your story. This is a 4-week class. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together)

Welcome to C. Freeman Poole 
Thursday, January 9 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Free; Registration required
Whether you are new or have been coming to C. Freeman Poole for a long time, you are invited to come and learn more about our center, the programs we offer, meet our team, take a tour of our center, and offer suggestions about activities, events or seminars you would like to see offered. 

Sip & Savor Tea Tasting 
Friday, January 10 from noon – 1 p.m. 
$10; Registration required
Join us for an afternoon of elegance and indulgence as we host a delicious tea tasting. Enjoy an exquisite selection of finely brewed teas, accompanied by delicious finger sandwiches, delectable pastries while learning about the benefits tea has on our health. Hosted by Fruitea Bubbles Café.

Computer Basics with South Cobb Library 
Monday, January 13 and Thursday, January 23
From 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
If you are new to computers, haven’t used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or just need a bit of a refresher, then this class is for you. These classes are designed to help you tackle technology and gain the confidence you need to succeed. There are two sessions in this class, please be present for both. Presented by South Cobb Regional Library.

Vision Board 
Tuesday, January 14 from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Free; Registration required
Are you ready to set your intentions and manifest your dreams for the future? Join us for a Vision Board Party, where we’ll come together to get creative, reflect on our goals, and create visual representations of everything we want to achieve while also focusing on mindfulness in the moment. Presented by UGA Cobb Extension. 

Organizing and Downsizing Your Home #43389
Thursday, January 16 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Free; Registration required
Discover practical tips and compassionate strategies to ease the process of downsizing your home. Whether you are planning to move or creating a more manageable space, this presentation will be beneficial to you. Presented by Caring Transitions of Smyrna and Dallas, Ga. 

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, January 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Casa Grande 
2810 East-West Connector, Austell

BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR 
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL


December

23 – JANUARY 3: COBB SCHOOLS WINTER HOLIDAY

25: CHRISTMAS DAY

January 2025

4:  BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER: January 4. Instead of sending your tree to the landfill, recycle it! KSB will hold this annual event on Saturday, January 4, at The Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Vinings. Details can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/bring-one-for-the-chipper/

Weekly Organizations
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 American Legion Post 160, located at 160 Legion Drive. 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 jcic2004@yahoo.com.

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 amberenson@gmail.com.

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 shawnbendig@att.net 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 f2@nfiweb.com.

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 troop625rocks@gmail.com.
 

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 news@brightsidecobb.com. 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

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN: Keep Smyrna Beautiful offers a $4,500 scholarship for a student currently pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in an environmentally related field. Applications are due March 2, 2025. Must be a resident of Smyrna or currently enrolled in Campbell High School or Whitefield Academy. More details here: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/school-partnerships/

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: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.

INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTING: Give your home a NEW LOOK for fall! Have a professional Interior Designer arrange your furniture and accessories to look their best, give you design ideas, and a plan for future purchases. Full Interior Design Services also available. Call or text Creative Interiors 404-569-9665

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: ads@brightsidecobb.com. 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com
 

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 cslipsett@att.net


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.

BRIGHT SIDE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING 


REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. Let an ad in The Bright Side help attract new customers or clients to your business. Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business in the print and electronic editions. I am also looking for news of events for this New Year edition with a deadline of December 27. I welcome good news about people in the community at any time. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

And if you know someone who would like to receive our electronic weekly edition, have them visit my website at brightsidecobb.com, click on the red button, and fill out the information. Can I save a space for your advertising? Call me at 77-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

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 and at Vickery Hardware, 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
 
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 ads@brightsidecobb.com 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
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Copyright © 2024 The Bright Side, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website, by email, or by personal request to the Bright Side.

Our mailing address is:
The Bright Side
3330 Cumberland Blvd SE
Suite 500
Vinings, GA 30339-5997

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Bright Side E-Weekly for Dec. 13

December 13, 2024 by

In this issue:

  • SMYRNA WONDROUS WINTER CLEANUP
  • MUSICAL AT LIFE CHURCH SMYRNA
  • OPTIMIST CLUB OFFERS SANTA PHOTOS
  • BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER
  • QUALIFYING TO BEGIN IN DECEMBER FOR TWO COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS
  • LOUIS DEFENSE COMPLETES INTENSIVE PROGRAM

Plus the latest calendar of events.

Bright Side News for December 13, 2024
View this email in your browser

Friday, December 13, 2024 • 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 January issue is December 27th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.


SMYRNA WONDROUS WINTER CLEANUP:
DECEMBER 14

On Saturday, December 14 Keep Smyrna Beautiful (KSB) volunteers will hit the streets to give Smyrna the gift of clean streets and good cheer. If you’d like to join this litter cleanup for ages 12+ you can start by filling out KSB’s online volunteer application. Register here.
Now Available! Read the Nov/Dec Bright Side


       


MUSICAL AT LIFE CHURCH SMYRNA

Life Church is holding a Christmas Musical on Sunday, December 15 during the 10 a.m. service. The musical is CAKE, Christmas Acts of Kindness Experiment. The church is located at 4100 King Springs Road, Smyrna. The entire community is invited and we hope to see you there.


OPTIMIST CLUB OFFERS SANTA PHOTOS

The Smyrna Optimist Club offers its annual Santa House Project in December. Partnering with The City of Smyrna who provides Mr. Santa Claus, the Optimist Club members volunteer to run the activity each weekend. Come have a photo made with Santa this year.
       
 Families, individuals, groups and even pets are welcome to visit with Santa. The Optimists will take an instant photo of you with Santa and your own photos are allowed. This photo opportunity and visit with Santa is offered for a donation only. 
       
The funds raised from the project go directly to the Smyrna Safety Foundation’s “Shop with a Hero Project,” where Fire and Police department personnel take children Christmas shopping. Each child is given money to shop with and attends a celebration luncheon. 
       
The Santa House schedule is as follows:  at the Taylor Brawner House on Atlanta Road from 6  p.m. to 8 p.m., December 6th,7th,8th,13th,15th,20th,21st, and 22nd.  No appointment necessary.


BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER

Keep Smyrna Beautiful is once again sponsoring their annual Bring One for the Chipper. This is a Christmas Tree recycling program to turn live trees into mulch. This year’s Chipper event will be on January 4 at the Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Parkway, in Vinings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Trees should be live, unbound, and free of flocking and other decorations. They will be recycled into much. Seedlings will be available as supplies last.
       


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 cslipsett@att.net for more information.


QUALIFYING TO BEGIN IN DECEMBER FOR TWO COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS

Thought the election season was over? That would be incorrect. The election season continues with two commission posts needing to be filled. A Cobb County Superior Court Judge ordered this special election after ruling the county’s use of home rule powers to draw its commission maps was unconstitutional.

The Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration (BOER) set the dates for the Special Elections for Cobb County Commissioner Districts 2 and 4. Those seats are currently held by Jerica Richardson in District Two and Monique Sheffield in District Four.

Qualifying will take place from December 18 – 20, and the Primary Election will take place on Feb. 11, 2025 and if necessary, a runoff election will take place on March 11, 2025. The General Special Election will take place on April 29, 2025.

The Cobb Board of Elections and Registrations (BOER) had to wait until after November’s General Election to set these dates, as they depended on a possible runoff (no runoff was necessary).  Advance Voting will be available for these contests at select locations. Only Cobb Commission Districts 2 and 4 voters will be eligible to vote in this special election.


LOUIS DEFENSE COMPLETES INTENSIVE PROGRAM

The Smyrna Police department is proud to announce that Major Louis Defense has successfully completed the 152nd Administrative Officers Course at the Southern Police Institute (SPI) through the University of Louisville.

The Administrative Officers Course is an intensive, highly respected 12-week educational program designed specifically for law enforcement command personnel.
Since August 2024, Major Defense, along with law enforcement leaders from across the country, has studied a range of crucial topics, including leadership, police administration, legal issues, and organizational performance and behavior.

The course is academically rigorous, and graduates emerge well-prepared to lead their agencies with professionalism and competence.
Since 1951, SPI has educated thousands of command-level officers, enhancing the effectiveness of police executives worldwide.

Major Defense’s successful completion of this program is a significant achievement. The knowledge and insights he has gained—alongside the perspectives of his peers nationwide—will have a lasting impact on his leadership within the Smyrna Police Department.

“Congratulations, Major Defense, and we look forward to seeing the positive influence of your enhanced leadership in our community.”

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.

DECEMBER

The Pharmacy 
Monday, December 16 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required 
Our local pharmacy can be a confusing or frustrating place to be at times.  As we age, the pharmacy takes a more important role in our lives.  Learn from an expert, F. Rocky Beeland, a clinical pharmacist with a large Atlanta hospital system, on how to make your interaction with the pharmacy smoother and less time consuming. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening & Enriching Seniors Together)      

Holly Jolly Sweater Party 
Monday, December 16 from 11 a.m. – noon. $5; Registration required 
‘Tis the season to rock your ugly sweater. Put on your best and most creative holiday sweater and join us for a holiday party with games, drinks, appetizers, and a prize for the best-looking holly jolly sweater. 

Snowy Pinecone Candle Jar Craft 
Wednesday, December 18 from 11 a.m. – noon 
$3; Registration required 
Learn how to use mason jars for homemade decorations with these Snowy Pinecone Candle Jars. Supplies provided. Presented by C. Freeman Poole. 

Mind Over Matter – Healthy Bowels Healthy Bladder 
Thursday, December 19th 
Free; Registration required
Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder (MOM) is a researched and proven program designed to give women the tools they need to take control of bladder and bowel leakage. With practice, these new skills are proven to help you avoid or reduce leakage so you can keep doing the things that matter most to you. This is a 3-week workshop. Plan to attend all 3 two-hour classes.
Presented by Certified Mind Over Matter Instructors

Freeman Foodies 
Friday, December 20 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Bonefish Grill
2997 Cobb Pkwy, Atlanta 300339

Toast to the New Year 
Tuesday, December 31 from 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Free; Registration required 
Happy New Year! Let’s share a toast to our family, and a toast to our friends, far and near. A toast to the things that are yet to come and to the memories that we hold. 

BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR 
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL


December

14: WINTER CLEAN-UP. Sponsored by Keep Smyrna Beautiful. Register here.

23 – JANUARY 3: COBB SCHOOLS WINTER HOLIDAY

25: CHRISTMAS DAY

January 2025

4:  BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER: January 4. Instead of sending your tree to the landfill, recycle it! KSB will hold this annual event on Saturday, January 4, at The Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Vinings. Details can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/bring-one-for-the-chipper/

Weekly Organizations
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 American Legion Post 160, located at 160 Legion Drive. 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 jcic2004@yahoo.com.

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 amberenson@gmail.com.

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 shawnbendig@att.net 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 f2@nfiweb.com.

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 troop625rocks@gmail.com.
 

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 news@brightsidecobb.com. 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

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN: Keep Smyrna Beautiful offers a $4,500 scholarship for a student currently pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in an environmentally related field. Applications are due March 2, 2025. Must be a resident of Smyrna or currently enrolled in Campbell High School or Whitefield Academy. More details here: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/school-partnerships/

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: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.

INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTING: Give your home a NEW LOOK for fall! Have a professional Interior Designer arrange your furniture and accessories to look their best, give you design ideas, and a plan for future purchases. Full Interior Design Services also available. Call or text Creative Interiors 404-569-9665

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: ads@brightsidecobb.com. 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com
 

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 cslipsett@att.net


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.

BRIGHT SIDE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING 


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 cslipsett@att.net

And if you know someone who would like to receive our electronic weekly edition, have them visit my website at brightsidecobb.com, click on the red button, and fill out the information. Can I save a space for your advertising? Call me at 77-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net.

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 and at Vickery Hardware, 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
 
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 ads@brightsidecobb.com 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 ads@brightsidecobb.com.
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Vinings, GA 30339-5997

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Filed Under: Blog, Current, News

CITY OF SMYRNA OFFERS COVID VACCINATIONS

October 8, 2021 by

The City of Smyrna is offering Covid vaccinations today, October 8, for Ages 12 and up. The city is extending the free community vaccination effort through October to help slow the spike. Vaccinations are available each Friday during September at the Smyrna Community Center (200 Village Green Circle, Smyrna. 

Offered at the Smyrna Community Center, Pfizer vaccine vaccinations are open for everyone ages 12 and up at the Smyrna Community Center each Friday afternoon, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. (200 Village Green Circle, Smyrna). No Appointment needed. Please bring ID. There is no cost. For ages 12 to 15, please bring a birth certificate or record of live birth (or passport). 

Filed Under: Blog, Current, News, Smyrna

MABLE HOUSE HARVEST FESTIVAL SET FOR OCTOBER 9

October 8, 2021 by

The Mable House Harvest Festival is set for October 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  The festival is presented by Cobb PARKS, and sponsored by Friends of the Mable House. It will be held at the Mable House, 5239 Floyd Road, Mableton. This family-friendly festival offers free parking and free admission.  

There will be lots of activities, including storytelling, children’s crafts, petting farm, old time games, a visit from Mother Goose and her helper, hayrides, tours and demonstrations in the Historic House: spinning, weaving, quilting and a blacksmith.  South Cobb Lions Club will be selling BBQ.  There will be live music all afternoon:  Strand Ole Opry, Katy Ruth Camp & Friends, Travis Cottle, Possum ‘n Taters, a bagpiper and Scottish dancers.

Filed Under: Blog, Current, News, Smyrna, South Cobb, Vinings

Happy Birthday, Smyrna!

October 8, 2021 by

The City of Smyrna will celebrate its birthday with concerts and fireworks on Saturday, October 9. The party begins at 5 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m.

Join others in downtown Smyrna for a special back-to-back lineup of powerful music with musicians who helped define the late grunge era through the 90s and beyond. No tribute bands here. This is the real deal! The city is delighted to present Sister Hazel and the Gin Blossoms in the same show on the Village Green in Smyrna.

Filed Under: Blog, Current, News, Smyrna

Fall Book Sale

October 8, 2021 by
Filed Under: Blog, Current, News, Smyrna, South Cobb, Vinings

ANNUAL PUMPKIN SALE BEGINS AT SMYRNA FUMC

October 8, 2021 by
Photo by Cathy Lipsett

Pumpkins as far as the eye can see. The lot adjacent to First United Methodist Church, Concord Road, Smyrna, is filled with pumpkins large, small and in-between. The church youth are selling the pumpkins as part of their annual fundraiser for their Youth Ministries at SFUMC.

There is an honor box for payments outside of those times when staff is present and payments can also be made at Smyrnafumc.org

This Sunday, October 10, will celebrate a faith and blue initiative from 1 – 4 p.m. The police officers will be accepting donations of baby items for Tillman House. Donate two or more baby items and the police will buy the donor a pumpkin to decorate or keep. There will be a pumpkin contest for the best decorated pumpkin.

Filed Under: Blog, Current, News, Smyrna, South Cobb, Vinings
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