Friday, January 9, 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 February issue is January 28th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
|
|
 
SMYRNA MOM SHARES MUSIC BENEFITS
When Smyrna resident Jessi Carroway talks about the role of music in her family’s life, she doesn’t hesitate: “Music shaped who we are, and it continues to connect us as a family.” For Jessi, her husband, Kevin, and her children, EmmaLee and Kaleb, music has been a source of confidence, resilience, and joy—thanks in part to The Music Studio Atlanta.
For Jessi, a musician and former music teacher, music lessons at The Music Studio Atlanta have been about more than notes on a page. Her daughter EmmaLee began voice lessons in kindergarten. At first, Jessi stood just behind the curtain at her daughter’s recitals, hugging her through stage fright.
“I do remember going up onto the stage and not knowing what to do, and my mom would hug me,” EmmaLee, now 11 years old, recalls. “Then I got used to going up in front of an audience and projecting my voice.” Today, EmmaLee sings in her church choir and plays upright bass in her school orchestra with confidence. She is known as one of the most poised public speakers in her grade and has joined the school’s drama club.
“From appearing small with her voice and stature, to becoming this open and joyous young lady, EmmaLee shares her confidence freely. That confidence she got from music lessons and taking advantage of The Music Studio’s many performance opportunities,” says Jessi. “EmmaLee has even gone on to perform as Maleficent at The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta.”
Kaleb, Jessi’s youngest, started piano and drum lessons at age six and still studies piano with Mr. Kyle at The Music Studio Atlanta. Jessi believes the lessons have taught him something even more valuable than skill: “Another gift my children have gotten from music lessons is learning that it’s OK to mess up.”
“Music lessons are a commitment to both kids and parents. My husband is our biggest cheerleader. Together as a family we foster and nurture this love of music and commitment to lessons, practices, and performances,” says Jessi. “The lessons have shown my kids how valuable commitment is as well. They know from experience that if you do it a little at a time and don’t give up, you’ll make great strides.”
Cecilia Rowe, CEO of The Music Studio Atlanta and Cobb County resident, says families like the Carroways are at the heart of the studio’s mission. “The Carroways show the power of music lessons and performing with regard to the growth of a child’s confidence, pride, and trajectory. EmmaLee has been taking lessons with us for six years and we have seen the exponential growth through performance. And Kaleb has proven that continuing music lessons, and consistent association with a supportive studio, does amazing things!”
Cecilia continues, “Music education is about building confidence, discipline, and joy—not just in the student, but in the family as a whole. We are so proud to bring this opportunity to even more families in North Fulton.”
Jessi says, “The Music Studio Atlanta has made such a positive impact on my family. The only advice that I can give to parents that are considering lessons is that with commitment, consistency, and perseverance, it can be a foundation of confidence and connection for your family. Music has had a transformative impact for us. Giving your child the opportunity to grow through music will be a gift that you give them and your family for life.”
|
|
Now Available – the January Bright Side!
|
|
|
MABLETON TO HOLD TALK #2
This coming Monday, January 12, at 6:30 p.m., Mableton Improvement Coalition is hosting Mableton Talk #2 featuring the city’s elected officials. This meeting will be in person and all are invited to attend.
The talks will include:
Mayor Michael Owens
Commissioner Monique Sheffield, Cobb County District 4
State Representative Terry Cummings, House District 39
These incredible leaders will share insights into what we can expect in 2026 in our growing and thriving community.
January 12, South Cobb Community Center
620 Lions Club Drive, Mableton,
From 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Given the importance of this meeting, it will be open to the public. Mableton Talks are usually for MIC members only. If you are not a MIC members. this is an excellent opportunity to join. You can join today by clicking the orange button below or join on-site January 12th. They would be honored to have new members join and be a part of our community. |
|
 
 
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.
|
|
|
Day four of the days of service is a Work Day for the Hawthorne GardenKSB TO HOLD MLK DAYS OF SERVICE
Keep Smyrna Beautiful will host its 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Days of Service from January 19–24 with a variety of volunteer opportunities throughout Smyrna. Volunteer opportunities include multiple litter cleanups and a habitat rehabilitation project focused on removing invasive, non-native plants.
Registration required through Hands on Atlanta. For full event details and registration links, visit https://bit.ly/KSBVOLMLK2026. KSB is also offering an option for independent volunteering using a to-go cleanup kit that can either be checked out from the Smyrna Public Library or requested directly from KSB.
Keep Cobb Beautiful (KCB) appreciates Boy Scout Troop #22 and the South Cobb Lions Club for volunteering removing Christmas Trees from cars as they drive through the Home Depot on the East West Connector. As part of the KCB Bring One For The Chipper event, these trees will be ground up by a huge chipper.
The mulch will be available to any Cobb County citizen. We also appreciate Home Depot for their hospitality and willingness to dedicate part of their parking lot for this worthy cause. |
|
BOY SCOUTS AND LIONS VOLUNTEER
Keep Cobb Beautiful (KCB) appreciates Boy Scout Troop #22 and the South Cobb Lions Club for volunteering, removing Christmas Trees from cars as they drive through the Home Depot on the East West Connector. As part of the KCB Bring One for the Chipper event, these trees were ground-up by a huge chipper.
The mulch will be available to any Cobb County citizen. They also appreciate Home Depot for their hospitality and willingness to dedicate part of their parking lot for this worthy cause.
|
|
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
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.
|
|
|
BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
January
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.
27: JONQUIL GARDEN CLUB. Jonquil Garden Club monthly meeting for January will be held on Tuesday, January 27th, at the Smyrna Community Center, 200 Village Green Circle, Smyrn, in the Jonquil Room. The January program will be a plant exchange among members and the election of officers for the upcoming year.
Each meeting includes information on horticulture and a presentation that will enhance your knowledge of gardening. Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month (Sept-May) from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 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
20: ARBOR DAY TREE PLANTING. Keep Smyrna Beautiful will host a ceremonial tree planting to celebrate Arbor Day on Friday, February 20, from noon to 12:30 p.m. just outside the Smyrna Community Garden located in North Cooper Lake Park. This event is open to the public, and seedlings will be available while supplies last. We will plant a selection of redbud and fruit trees.
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.
|
|
|
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
TUTORING: Help your child succeed in math. One-on-one tutoring for grades 8 – 12 and SAT/ACT math prep. Trusted Supportive instruction located in the Smyrna area. Call 404-729-8087 or email KGEmathsolutions@gmail.com
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
|
|
|
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.
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.
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
