Bright Side News for Jan. 31, 2025

Topics included in this issue include:

  • ELECTION SET FOR COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS
  • ADOPT-A-TREE AT KSB
  • VOLUNTEERS BRAVE COLD TO REMOVE TRASH
  • NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS

Plus get a list of upcoming local events to enjoy!

Updated: Bright Side News for January 31, 2025
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Friday, January 31, 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 March issue is February 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.


VOTING BEGINS FOR COUNTY COMMISSION POSTS

Advance voting begins tomorrow for the special election for two county commission posts. 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. 

Locations for Advance Voting are below. On Election Day, February 11, voters MUST go to their assigned polling location, open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. All offer a drop box and Sunday voting.

MAIN OFFICE
Main Office
995 Roswell Street
Marietta, GA 30060

AUSTELL
Old Clarkdale Park Community Center
153 Mathis Drive SW
Austell, GA 30106

SOUTH
South Cobb Community Center
620 Lions Club Dr.
Mableton, GA 30126

SOUTHEAST
Smyrna Community Center
1250 Powder Springs St. SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
Read the January Bright Side


       
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VOLUNTEERS BRAVE COLD TO REMOVE TRASH

The Word of Faith pastors and church members, along with Keep Cobb Beautiful and the Lions Club, showed up, bundled in layers, to remove litter. They removed 54 bags from Riverside Pkwy, South Service Road, Lansky Werber Road, and City View Road. The cold weather had volunteers worried. Pastor Corey mentioned that “Dr Martin Luther King went through a lot of uncomfortable times on our behalf; we can brave the cold to honor him”. Once the group got active, the cold was not a big problem. It was a fun and productive morning. Volunteers appreciated the Word of Faith Church for arranging this litter cleanup and giving the group a chance to display appreciation to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
 


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.


ADOPT-A-TREE AT KSB

Winter is the perfect time to plant a new tree, and Keep Smyrna Beautiful (KSB) has free seedlings and small trees available. KSB volunteers rescue small trees from land slated for development and prepare them to be taken home by residents. Visit our website to learn more and to request a free tree.


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.

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

February

11:  SPECIAL PRIMARY ELECTION FOR COUNTY COMMISSION 

March

22: DOCUMENT SHREDDING Securely shred and recycle your documents at KSB’s spring document shredding event on March 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Aline Wolfe Adult Recreation Center parking lot (884 Church St. Smyrna). Details available at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/shred-fest/

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. 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. 

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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