Friday, March 21, 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 April issue is March 23rd. Contact us at [email protected].
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THE GEORGIA GROWN FOOD PLUS WINE
FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND
The 4th annual Food and Wine Festival is set to kick off on March 21 and end on March 23. The Georgia Food + Wine Festival, presented by Georgia Grown, will celebrate the best of Georgia and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts, to farmers, artisans, live musicians and more.
There will be events for families and events for ages 21 and older. The festival will be held at Jim R Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road S.W., Marietta, under the management of JRM, which manages and produces fairs, festivals, and other special events throughout the southeast. Georgia Grown will be featuring their members in a variety of ways, including:
• The Georgia Grown Member Village
• The Georgia Grown Culinary Demo Stage
The Georgia Food + Wine Festival has partnered with SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, a Cobb County, Georgia based 501-(c)3 non-profit organization and will develop several fundraising opportunities to benefit them, including a silent auction.
A variety of events for all taste buds include the legendary barbecue event, “Fired-Up” an all-inclusive food and drink tasting event, featuring a “Meat & Greet”. Saturday’s main event, “Savor” offers hundreds of beer, wine and spirits tastings, a Georgia Celebrity Chef Stage, Georgia Grown Chef Demo stage, shopping, VIP Lounge, artisans, and live music. “Sunday/Funday” is the budget friendly and family-friendly day, with free Kids Zone, Celebrity Chef Stage, Georgia Grown Chef Demo stage, VIP Lounge with open bar and grilled oysters, Georgia’s Best Whiskey Cocktail Challenge presented by Beam Suntory and Creative Loafing, live music, and shopping.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com. For information call 770) 423-1330 or visit https://www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com for more information on each event. |
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Read the March Bright Side
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KIDS SMYRNA MARKET SATURDAY
Get ready to be amazed by the creativity and talent of Smyrna’s young entrepreneurs at the Kid’s Smyrna Market on March 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Smyrna Community Center.
Join the excitement and a day of fun as talented kids showcase their handmade products, from jewelry, to baked goods, creative artwork, and so much more. During this event the city’s young entrepreneurs will rise to the challenge of deciding what to sell, running a booth, and talking to customers. Mark your calendars and come by to show your support!
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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 [email protected] for more information.
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TURNING POINT PRESENTS WOMEN’S DAY PROGRAM
Please join others for Women’s Community Day and learn about resources, free clothing and lite refreshments…see you there on Saturday March 29
Guest Speaker for the event will be Austell City Council Woman Sandra Leverette. The Community Women’s Day presentation will be from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Smyrna Community Center, Jonquil Room, 200 Village Green Cir. SE, Smyrna. “Please consider us for donations and share with your networks”, said Turning Point.
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GOLF TOURNAMENT BENEFITS
SWEETWATER MISSION
Sweetwater Mission very much appreciates the sponsors, players and volunteers who helped make their Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser a success. The day started off very cold and windy. However, it warmed up in the afternoon. Everybody who hung in there is a trooper. Sweetwater Mission will use the money raised to help people in need in our community. They serve over 60,000 families a year. With increasing cost of groceries, they need more donations than ever before. Please visit Sweetwater Mission’s website at Sweetwater Mission to learn more or donate to this organization. |
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WRITING WORKSHOP: PUBLISHING YOUR FIRST BOOK
The Smyrna Library is holding an adult writing workshop on Friday, April 4 from 10:30 a.m. – noon in the Library’s Meeting Room. This is a workshop for adults, ages 18 and up. Limited seating. Please register here.
This presentation will visit each step, reveal obstacles, and explore techniques to increase the success of publishing your first book. This will include a brief review of tools-story structure, character arcs, the role of different types of editors, illustrators, the submission process, contracting with a literary agent, and finally a publisher. The presentor will provide updates on what is currently selling, and the latest on the role of Social Media and AI.
Walter Dean started as a tech writer for Texas Instruments and later joined IBM in Atlanta as principal, project manager, and financial analyst, during which he acquired an MBA from Duke University and developed rules and theory for business communications. Now retired, Walter writes ‘Jonquility,’ an occasionally published column of his musings of life in Smyrna and Vinings, and maintains an active interest in high tech, 3D printing, and woodworking. |
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WOMAN OF DISTINCTION AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN
Cobb Executive Women is seeking nominations for its 2025 Woman of Distinction Award. The Woman of Distinction award is given annually to recognize a woman who has demonstrated exceptional leadership through her professional endeavors, community involvement, and commitment to social responsibility. Through her leadership, this recipient drives meaningful change and creates a lasting impact by uplifting and empowering others. The award will be presented at the June 2 Marquee Monday, celebrating the transformative power of inclusive leadership in building a stronger community.
Nominations are now open through Friday, April 18. Thank you to the Woman of Distinction Award Sponsor, S.A. White Oil Company, and Cobb Executive Women Presenting Sponsor, Northside Hospital. Submit a nomination here. |
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FRIENDS OF SMYRNA LIBRARY PRESENTATION
The Friends of Smyrna Library are presenting Mrs. Lincoln: The “First” First Lady starring Laura F. Keyes, as Mary Todd Lincoln. This educational performance and fundraiser, celebrating the nonprofit group’s 35th anniversary, will be held at the Smyrna Community Center on Sunday, April 13, at 3 p.m. The show includes an Afternoon Tea service. This is a ticketed event ($35) with limited seating.
Mary Todd Lincoln lived a life filled with triumphs and tragedies, but few people know her story. Now, librarian Laura F. Keyes shares Mary’s story in an entertaining and educational program entitled Mrs. Lincoln: The “First” First Lady, focusing on the life and losses of Mrs. Lincoln, set on April 14, 1865.
This program depicts an extraordinarily important time in our nation’s history from a point of view that is not often explored. Learn how Mary Lincoln influenced monumental events in her lifetime and why her story is still relevant today.
Buy tickets online at FOSLga.org via Eventbrite Ticketing. Printed tickets are also on sale at:
Smyrna Public Library Circulation Desk, 100 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna, Gifting Tree & the Secret Garden, 1275 Concord Road SE, Smyrna, and Vickery Hardware, 881 Concord Road SE, Smyrna. |
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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
Join other Seniors for a day filled with resources, connections, and valuable information at the Cobb County Senior Services Annual Expo! Mark your calendar for Wednesday, April 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cobb Civic Center. This free event is open to the public, and parking is FREE. A bag of free produce will be also be available to the first 400 households.
Discover a variety of vendors offering services in life enrichment, transportation, nutrition, senior living, Medicare, wellness, safety, and much more. Plus, Northside Hospital will be providing free health screenings, and we’ll have informative seminars on important topics throughout the day.
Be sure to check cobbseniors.org for updates on vendors, health screenings, and seminar details as we get closer to the event! Don’t miss this opportunity to explore helpful resources, learn something new, and connect with your community.
Veteran Connection meets the 2nd Tuesday each month at 10 a.m.
MARCH
Bingo Bash
Monday, March 24 from noon – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available
Freeman Trail Trekkers
Wednesday, March 26 from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us as we embrace the joy of walking in the great outdoors! Freeman’s Trail Trekkers Walking Club is a welcoming community of individuals who enjoy staying active, meeting new people, and exploring local trails and parks. We will be kicking off the walking club with a presentation on the benefits of walking, which trails we will be exploring, what to bring and answer any questions you may have.
The Pharmacy – Over-The-Counter Medicines (OTC)
Monday, March 31 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Virtually everyone takes some kind of over-the-counter, (OTC), medication. From cold-symptom relief to heartburn to headache…there is an OTC for everything. We tend to think of OTCs as less risky or harmful than prescription medications, but they can be every bit as dangerous if used wrong or too often. Come and hear some of the dangers and risks of using OTCs and get some advice on which ones to avoid, from our resident Pharmacist. The presenter is F. Rocky Beeland, a clinical pharmacist with a large Atlanta hospital system. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together).
APRIL
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Thursday, April 3 from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. You will benefit from this class whether you are helping a parent, spouse, friend, someone who lives at home, in a nursing home, or across the country. This class series meets for 90 minutes once a week for six weeks. Class size is limited, and registration is required. Deadline to register March 20.
Maximize your Personal Wealth
Friday, April 4 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Join us to learn how managing your money can help maximize your personal wealth. You will learn about reaching your wealth goals, building an effective investment portfolio, managing a transfer of wealth and signs of potential investment fraud. Presented by Regions Bank.
First Friday Film
Friday, April 4 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!
Navigating Taxes: A Session with the Tax Commissioner
Monday, April 7 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Join us for an informative and interactive seminar led by the Tax Commissioner, designed to help individuals and small businesses confidently navigate the complexities of the tax system. Whether you’re dealing with property taxes, motor vehicles, homestead exemptions, etc., this session will provide you with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about your tax responsibilities. Presented by the Cobb County Tax Commissioner Office and the Cobb County Sheriff’s Department.
Celebrating Jazz
Monday, April 7 from 1 p.m. –2 p.m. $5; Registration required
Celebrate National Jazz month with a delightful Jazz Happy Hour where you can relax, mingle, and enjoy the smooth sounds of live jazz music in a cozy setting. Light refreshments will be served. Music by saxophone player Spurgeon McWilliams.
Parkinson’s Awareness
Tuesday, April 8 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for Parkinson’s 101, an informative session designed to help you better understand Parkinson’s disease, its symptoms, and the latest treatment options. Whether you or a loved one are impacted by Parkinson’s, or you’re simply interested in learning more, this presentation offers valuable insights into how the disease affects individuals, as well as strategies for managing its progression. Presented by Calle Wallace with the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Safety in Focus: Gun Safety Education
Monday, April 14 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Join us for an informative and engaging presentation on gun safety, where we’ll discuss the essential practices and responsibilities of firearm ownership. Whether you’re a new gun owner or an experienced owner, this session will equip you with the knowledge to handle firearms safely, reduce accidents, and promote responsible gun use in your community. Presented by Cobb County Sherriff’s Office.
Trip to Gibbs Garden
Wednesday, April 16 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
$26 (transportation & entry); Registration required
Get ready for a peaceful and picturesque escape as we embark on a trip to the stunning Gibbs Gardens! Known for its breathtaking landscapes and beautifully curated gardens, this is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
Activity Level 2-4 – Limited walking, some stairs, and/or inclines. No refunds unless trip is cancelled. Deadline: April 8.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, April 17 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 “The Reckoning” by John Grisham. Please stop by the Center to grab a copy. Hosted by South Cobb Library.
The Crafty Corner: Paper Hydrangeas
Monday, April 21
11:00am – 12:00pm
Free; Registration required
Join us for a fun and creative craft session where we’ll be making beautiful paper hydrangeas. This hands-on workshop will guide you step-by-step to create stunning, lifelike flowers that you can use for home decor, gifts, or just as a personal keepsake. Hosted by South Cobb Library.
AARP Smart Driver
Wednesday, April 23 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Please arrive by 9 a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members
Registration required
Check with your insurance agent about a possible discount for taking this class. Bring a lunch.
Freeman’s Karaoke Jam
Friday, April 25 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Free; Registration required
Get ready for an afternoon of fun, music, and unforgettable performances at C. Freeman Poole’s Karaoke Jam! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-time singer, this is your chance to take the stage and show off your vocal talent.
Bingo Bash
Monday, April 28 from noon – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available.
Sprout and Thrive
Tuesday, April 29 from 11 a.m. – noon
$3 (Supplies); Registration required
Join us for a fun and eco-friendly event where we’ll plant trees, flowers, or herbs together. Whether you’re new to gardening or experienced, everyone is welcome to help grow a greener community. Let’s dig in and grow something special! Presented by C. Freeman Poole Staff.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
March
21-23: GEORGIA FOOD +WINE FESTIVAL. Jim Miller Park. The 2025 Georgia Food + Wine Festival will celebrate the best of Georgia and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts, to farmers, artisans, live musicians and more. Click here for tickets.
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/
22: KIDS MARKET. Smyrna Community Center. Fun and discovery as talented kids display their handmade products from jewelry and art work to homemade treats.
April
9 – 11: SPRING BREAK for Cobb Schools. Spring break will be April 9 – 11. The last day of school will be May 21 with early release that day for all levels. May 19 and 20 will also be early release day for all levels.
26 – 27: JONQUIL FESTIVAL. The Spring Jonquil Festival is located on the beautiful Village Green in downtown Smyrna. There will be 150 arts & crafts booths, food booths, a beer garden, and plenty of children’s activities. The show will also feature a local entertainment stage.
Weekly Organizations
BOY SCOUT TROOP 1: Join Troop 1 Smyrna, where adventure meets leadership. Our vibrant Scouts BSA troop is Scout-led, thriving on teamwork, camaraderie, and the values of the Scout Oath and Law. We camp monthly, explore exciting outdoor adventures, and focus on building skills that last a lifetime. Meetings are held on Sundays from 4:30 to 6 p.m., providing a welcoming space to grow, lead, and have fun—except on holiday weekends or during our thrilling camping trips. Come be part of the adventure and discover what makes Troop 1 a community like no other. Website: troop1smyrna.com. Email: [email protected] Phone: 770-742-8858
BOY SCOUT TROOP 220 meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at Life Church Smyrna Assembly of God, 4100 King Springs Road (next to Griffin Middle School). For more information visit https://www.troopwebhost.org/Troop220Smyrna/Index.htm. https://web.cobbchamber.org/atlas/events/smyrna-area-council-state-of-the-city-11830/register
SMYRNA OPTIMIST: Meets every Friday, 7 a.m.to 8 a.m.at the 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 [email protected].
THE JONQUIL CITY KIWANIS CLUB meets on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. at the Wolfe Center at 884 Church St. Smyrna,30080. All are welcome. Please come early for fellowship and refreshments.
SMYRNA BNI: Smyrna Business Exchange BNI, the largest and most successful BNI Chapter in all North Georgia (including the Atlanta Metro area) meets Thursday mornings from 7 a.m. until 8:30 (networking, coffee and breakfast starting at 6:45 a.m.) The group meets at Smyrna First Baptist Church, 1275 Church St SE, Smyrna. Enter behind the church in the “Welcome Center.” You can reach them online at: bniatl.com
TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS! T-Toasters of Vinings is once again holding live meetings every Wednesday night starting at 6 p.m. Our meetings are held at 2727 Paces Ferry Rd, Building 2 in the 3rd floor conference room. Look for our banner and come join the fun! For more information visit t-toasters.com or email [email protected].
VININGS CUMBERLAND ROTARY CLUB. In person weekly meeting, and on zoom, every Wednesday at 12 noon. The meetings are held at Copeland’s of New Orleans, 3101 Cobb Parkway, Vinings. For more information, go to viningsrotary.org, or contact Shawn Bendig at [email protected] or 404-374-6027
SMYRNA ROTARY CLUB meets Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m. Join for a warm welcome, great fellowship, wonderful speakers, and community, national and international service projects. For more information, email Smyrna Rotary Club at [email protected].
GIRL SCOUTS. Girl Scout Troop 625 (K – 6th Grades) is recruiting! We have age level meetings for Mondays or Thursdays at Austell First United Methodist Church. Contact us at 470-399-3629 or [email protected].
Groups
RELATIONSHIPS IN RECOVERY. The oldest meeting on campus meets every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. in the Pro North building at Ridgeview Institute, 3995 S. Cobb Drive, Smyrna. A 12-step format meeting helping people in relationships with the many aspects of recovery.
E-mail your organization’s calendar news to [email protected]. Please send in a Word format as short as possible and no flyers. Calendar items also go into the electronic weekly every Friday. To subscribe to the eWeekly go to www.brightsidecobb.com and click on the red button.
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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: [email protected] or call 770-401-7945.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT. Throughout the fall, Keep Smyrna Beautiful will continue regular volunteer events, including Community Cleanups, Storm Drain Marking, and Adopt-a-Mile. Interested in volunteering? Fill out our online volunteer application, which can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/volunteer/
HELP WANTED
AD SALES POSITION OPEN. The Bright Side newspaper is looking for a self-starter to join our team in advertising sales. The motivated team member will be able to call on local businesses to tell them about advertising opportunities with The Bright Side. This is a 1099 commission position with lots of potential for the right person. If interested in interviewing, contact Cathy Lipsett at 770-426-9388 or by email [email protected]
EXTRA COPIES
EXTRA COPIES: Looking for an extra copy of The Bright Side? Copies are available each month in the Smyrna Library, the Smyrna Community Center, and Jonquil Publix Atlanta Road, Smyrna; Mableton Pharmacy, Floyd Road Kroger; and in Austell: The Treadmill. Also available at advertiser locations. On our website, www.brightsidecobb.com, sign up for out electronic weekly that has more local news and calendar items every Friday.
PLACING NOTES AND NOTICES ADS: Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, or in –home child care? We accept short reader ads for a fee of $25 per 50 words. The ads, with check, should be mailed or delivered to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. Ad copy should also be e-mailed to: [email protected]. Check or credit card payments accepted. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. Home sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to [email protected]
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WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS AND ADVERTISING FOR THE APRIL BRIGHT SIDE
We’re working on the April edition of The Bright Side. REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side.
Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business. I also welcome good news about people in the community. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at [email protected]
You can now read the print and the electronic editions of The Bright Side anytime on my website: www.brightsidecobb.com In addition to direct mail delivery to homes, extra print copies of The Bright Side are available at the Smyrna Public Library, at the Jonquil Publix on Atlanta Road 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.
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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 [email protected].
Notes And Notices
Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, in-home child care? We accept short reader ads (up to 50 words) for a fee of $25 per month.
Email the ad to [email protected] and send checks to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd. Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. (No copy accepted by phone) and received prior to our deadline of the 23rd of each month. Publication is in the first week of the following month. We also accept credit card payment. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. House for sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to [email protected].
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