Friday, January 2, 2026 • 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 extended to January 3rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
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BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER
On January 3, Keep Smyrna Beautiful and Keep Georgia Beautiful are sponsoring a Christmas Tree Recycling event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On that day, live trees may be brought to the Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Parkway, in Vinings. Trees should be live and unbound with no decorations or flocking. Seedlings will be available while supplies last.
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Check out the December Bright Side!
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BASEBALL TEAM TO PICK-UP CHRISTMAS TREES
Every year, the Campbell Baseball Spartans baseball team coordinates a Christmas tree pick up to raise funds for the Campbell baseball program. This year they will do this on Saturday January 3rd and Sunday January 4th.
After you sign up for a date, place your Christmas tree at the curb and a group of Campbell Baseball players will come by your home and pick up your tree. Suggested donation amount is $25
To sign up and for more information visit: https://campbellspartanbaseball.com/events-and-fundraisers/ or email dane.lorio@campbellspartanbaseball.com. |
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LOCAL OWNERS BRINGING IN-HOME SUPPORT
Seniors Helping Seniors® Atlanta Southwest is a locally owned, non-medical in-home care agency built on a simple idea: seniors thrive when supported by peers who understand their life stage and respect their independence. Owned and operated by Shanticleer and Erica Graham, the agency matches older adults who need assistance with mature, reliable caregivers, creating genuine, trust-based relationships that make everyday life safer, easier, and more connected.
The Grahams launched the agency after caring for their own parents and seeing firsthand how important familiar support can be. Shanticleer, a U.S. Army veteran and former corporate executive, grew up watching his mother care for family and neighbors after surgeries or illnesses. Erica, a longtime healthcare project manager, shared similar experiences. As their parents began needing help themselves, the couple realized how many local families were facing the same challenges—and decided to take action.
Today, Seniors Helping Seniors® Atlanta Southwest provides companion care, personal care, dementia and Alzheimer’s support, meal preparation, transportation, light housekeeping, respite care, safety monitoring, and 24-hour options. Their caregivers—many of whom are seniors themselves—are carefully screened, trained, and matched based on skills, personality, and shared interests to strengthen long-term connection.
The agency serves South Fulton, College Park, Fairburn, Union City, Palmetto, Douglasville, Lithia Springs, Mableton, Austell, Powder Springs, Newnan, Sharpsburg, and Senoia. These communities are among Georgia’s fastest-growing senior populations, with the 75+ demographic projected to rise more than 40% by 2029—making reliable, relationship-based in-home care more essential than ever.
Families choose Seniors Helping Seniors® for its RN-supervised care planning, rigorous screening, consistent caregiver matching, and commitment to preserving dignity at home. As the Grahams note, the work is personal: “We wanted to give back, honor our parents, and build something that strengthens our community every day.”
For more information, visit SHSAtlantaSouthwest.com or call 404-793-0677.
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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.
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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
Welcome to C. Freeman Poole Senior Center
Monday, January 5 from 10 a.m. – 11. 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.
Retirement Planning: Making Your Money Last
Tuesday, January 6 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Learn practical strategies to help ensure your savings support the life you want throughout retirement. This presentation covers key topics such as estimating expenses, planning for healthcare costs, managing income sources, reducing risk, and stretching your savings effectively. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying it, this session offers straightforward guidance to help you make confident, informed decisions about your financial future. Presented by Edwards Jones.
Bingocize ®
Tuesday, January 6 from 2:15 p.m. – 3:15.
$20. Registration required
Join us for Bingocize, a 10-week health promotion program that combines the game of bingo with fall prevention exercise. This session will meet for 10 weeks, twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Come play bingo while learning about techniques to reduce falls. Presented by Cobb Senior Services in partnership with WellStar.
Computer Basics
Thursday, January 8 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Free; Registration required.
This course introduces students to the essential skills needed to use a computer running Windows 11. (Please note that iPads, MacBooks, Chromebooks, and earlier versions of Windows are not covered in this class.) Throughout the course, you will learn computer fundamentals, how to use a mouse or touchpad, how to navigate and customize Windows 11, how to organize files and folders, the basics of word processing, how to browse the internet safely, and more. Each session includes two hours of formal instruction, with additional time available afterward for students who may benefit from one-on-one assistance. Students must bring their own Windows 11 laptop to each session, as computers will not be provided.
Crafty Creations: Snowflake Craft
Friday, January 9 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Celebrate the winter season with a fun and relaxing snowflake craft workshop hosted by the South Cobb Library! Join us as we create beautiful, unique snowflakes using simple materials and easy-to-follow steps. No experience is needed, just bring your creativity and enjoy a cozy afternoon of crafting and conversation.
Painting Workshop with Linda
Friday, January 9 from 1 p.m. – 3.
$15 Supply fee paid directly to instructor; Registration required
Join us for a fun and relaxing afternoon of painting as instructor Linda Kay guides you through creating a beautiful acrylic painting from start to finish. This step-by-step session is perfect for all skill levels, allowing you to enjoy the creative process and watch your artwork come to life under Linda’s expert instruction. Wear your favorite smock; all the materials will be provided.
Documentary & Discussion: MLK Documentary
Monday, January 12 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for a special screening of a powerful documentary exploring the life, legacy, and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After the film, we’ll host an open discussion to reflect on his message, share perspectives, and connect his work to the challenges and hopes of today.
What Do You Know About Your Public Library
Tuesday, January 13 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Discover the many services, resources, and hidden gems your public library has to offer! From books and digital media to classes, community events, and online tools, you may be surprised by how much your library can do for you. Join us for an engaging overview and learn how to make the most of this valuable community resource.
Trip to the Martin Luther King Center
Wednesday, January 14 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
$6; Registration required
Join us for a meaningful visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. Explore exhibits, historic landmarks, and powerful tributes that honor Dr. King’s life, legacy, and vision for justice and equality. This trip offers a reflective and inspiring experience for all participants. Followed by lunch at Hard Rock Café.
Payment due at registration. Registration deadline January 2: Price includes transportation. No refunds will be given unless the trip is cancelled. Activity Level 2 – Limited walking, some stairs and/or inclines. Mobility Requirements – travelers must be able to navigate on and off the bus independently. If you have any concerns with walking or climbing stairs, please check with staff before registering.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, January 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Free; Registration required.
Freeman Poole’s Page Turners book club offers a welcoming space to engage in meaningful conversations, share insights, and discover new authors and genres. The book of the month is TBD.
Trip to The Tubman Museum
Wednesday February 18 from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
$15; Registration required. Registration deadline: January 21
Join us for a delightful trip to the Tubman Museum! Spend the day exploring beautiful artwork, meaningful exhibits, and inspiring stories that celebrate African American history and culture. This relaxed, guided visit is perfect for learning something new, enjoying great company, and sharing a memorable outing together. Followed by lunch at La Parilla Mexican Restaurant.
Payment due at registration. Price includes transportation. No refunds will be given unless the trip is cancelled. Activity Level 2 – Limited walking, some stairs and/or inclines. Mobility Requirements – travelers must be able to navigate on and off the bus independently. If you have any concerns with walking or climbing stairs, please check with staff before registering.
Freeman Foodies
Friday, January 16 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Portillos
790 Cobb Place Blvd
Kennesaw Ga 30144
Winterize Your Home & Pipes
Tuesday, January 20 from noon – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Learn the importance of winterizing your faucets, irrigation system and garden in case of a deep freeze.
Warm Teas & Winter Cheer
Wednesday, January 21 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
$5; Registration required.
Join us for a cozy and delightful afternoon as we celebrate the joys of winter with a relaxing tea party. Sip a selection of warm teas, enjoy light refreshments, and share good conversation in a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere. This event is the perfect way to unwind, connect with friends, and savor a touch of winter warmth.
Cervical Cancer Awareness
Friday, January 23 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for an informative session on cervical cancer, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection. Learn about screening options, vaccinations, and lifestyle choices that can help reduce your risk.
Bingo
Monday, January 26 from noon – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available.
Peace of Mind: Pre-planning
Tuesday, January 27 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Pre-planning is a gift to your loved ones. Educate yourself and learn what decisions need to be made to ensure that your wishes are fulfilled. Receive a free planning guide to learn what steps you need to take to plan for end-of-life decisions. Presented by Southern Cremations.
Stories of Courage: Georgia Survivors & Liberators
Tuesday, January 27 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Free; Registration required
This powerful presentation promotes understanding of the Holocaust through the unique stories of courage and survival of 16 Georgians, 11 Holocaust survivors and 4 American soldiers/liberators, who experienced history from diverse backgrounds and regions of Europe. Hear firsthand accounts that honor bravery, illuminate history, and inspire reflection on the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Crafty Creations: Painted Pinecone Tree
Wednesday, January 28 from 10:30 a.m. – noon
$3; Registration required
Get creative with this fun and festive craft! Join us as we transform ordinary pinecones into beautiful painted trees, perfect for decorating your home or gifting to friends and family. All materials are provided, and no prior crafting experience is needed, just bring your imagination and enjoy a relaxing, hands-on session.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
January
03: BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER. The Home Depot, 2450 Cumberland Pkwy. Vinings, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
20: NEWCOMERS CLUB. The Newcomers Club of Cobb County welcomes area women to join them at their monthly meeting. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 20, at 10 a.m. at John Knox Presbyterian Church, 505 Powers Ferry Road, Marietta. Make new friends while learning from a speaker on topics interesting to women. New to the area or newly looking for fun activities and new friends? Come join us! For more information, visit newcomersofcobbcounty.com
24-25: FRIENDS OF SMYRNA LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE. They need children’s books for the book sale. So, as you are wrapping new books as presents for the kids this holiday season, consider donating the books that your kids have outgrown. Drop them off at the Smyrna library circulation desk when it is convenient.
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
SCOUTING AMERICA TROOP 220 (FOR BOYS) AND 1872 (FOR GIRLS). Come to Life Church to enjoy Scouting America’s (formally BSA) programs where we have both Boy and Girl Units. Combined with Pack 22 we provide Scouting for the whole family! Troops 1872 and 220 have monthly campouts/adventures and hold regular meetings located at Life Church Smyrna Assembly of God, 4100 King Springs Road (next to Griffin Middle School). Meetings for Troop 1872 are held on Sundays from 2 p.m. – 3:30 and for Troop 220 on Tuesdays from 6:30 – 8 p.m. We are focused on leadership, adventure, and established Scouting Values that have been around for 100+ years. For more information visit www.troopwebhost.org/Troop220smryna
SMYRNA OPTIMIST: Meets every Friday, 7 a.m.to 8 a.m.at the Nelms Masonic Lodge. 455 Concord Road SE, Smyrna. Visitors welcome.
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.
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NOTES AND NOTICES
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
MONTHLY RECYCLING CENTER TOURS. The City of Smyrna Recycling Center offers monthly tours on the third Friday of the month (except for holidays) at 9 am. You can register to attend by visiting: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/education/
SERVICES
GOOD RASCAL DOG TRAINING: Certified Dog Trainer offers Private Dog Training in your home or other mutually convenient location. Positive, gentle methods make training fun for dog and owner. Licensed, Bonded and Insured. For details, see our website: www.mygoodrascal.com. To set up a consultation, email: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT. Throughout the year, 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/
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 news@brightsidecobb.com
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WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS AND ADVERTISING FOR THE BRIGHT SIDE.
REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. The November newspaper is in the mail and at vendor locations. Deadline for the JANUARY print edition of the Bright Side is extended to January 3.
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
You can now read the print and the electronic editions of The Bright Side anytime on my website: www.brightsidecobb.com. In addition to direct mail delivery to homes, extra print copies of The Bright Side are available at the Smyrna Public Library, at the Jonquil Publix on Atlanta Road, Smyrna Kroger on South Cobb Drive and at Vickery Hardware. Also available at the Treadmill, Austell, the Floyd Road Kroger and Mableton Pharmacy.
Cathy Lipsett
Publisher/owner, The Bright Side Newspaper for Southern Cobb
The electronic weekly is a publication of Lipsett and Associates, Inc., publisher of The Bright Side Newspaper. Publisher and editor is Cathy Lipsett with electronic design by Peter Lipsett.
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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 news@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 news@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 news@brightsidecobb.com.
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