Friday, May 1, 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 June issue is May 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
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ALLEN WINS DISTRICT 2 COMMISSION SEAT
Erick Allen emerged as the winner of Tuesday’s election for District 2 County Commissioner. Monique Sheffield kept her seat as the District 4 Commissioner.
Erick Allen was the winner in the race with Republican Alicia Adams in the April 29 General Election. Monique Sheffield was the winner in her race with Republican Matthew Hardwick on April 29.
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Read the April Bright Side
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TASTE OF MABLETON COMING MAY 3
The 2025 Taste of Mableton takes place at the Mable House Complex and features the flavors, people, artisans, and culture that makes the City of Mableton unique. The event features a parade, a kids zone, live music, performances, and more.
Come out on Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and try all things Mableton – additional events include Tours and Displays, Pillars of Mableton, Health & Wellness Village, Arts & Crafts Exhibits, Public Safety Zone, Service Row, DJ and Dancing, Education Pavilion, Faith Village, Civic Circle, All Day Concert at the Amphitheatre, Family Fun Zone, The Marketplace, and Foodies Court.
Admission is free. The Taste pf Mableton is set for the Mable House Complex, 5239 Floyd Road, Mableton. Free onsite will be available at the Mable House Complex, with additional free overflow parking available at the South Cobb Regional Library, 805 Clay Rd, Mableton. For more information, please email tasteofmableton@mableton.org or call (404) 997-2893.
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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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Photo by Eloise Holland from the 2024 Garden tour.
SMYRNA GARDEN TOUR SET FOR MAY 3
Keep Smyrna Beautiful’s Garden Tour returns on Saturday, May 3, offering a delightful self-guided exploration of five of Smyrna’s most stunning gardens.
Consistent with past years, this year’s gardens offer a mix of size, style, and personality. Visitors will explore everything from a cozy space packed with hidden treasures to a serene streamside sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. Other highlights include blue-accented courtyards and a thoughtfully designed walking path that invites guests to explore.
“We have another amazing collection of gardens this year,” says Keep Smyrna Beautiful Board Chair Phyllis Owens. “Visitors will not only get some great gardening ideas, they can also feel good knowing that their ticket purchase goes back into the community.”
Proceeds from the Smyrna Garden Tour support litter cleanups, environmental education, community events, and more. As Keep Smyrna Beautiful’s largest annual fundraiser, this event plays a vital role in sustaining local beautification efforts.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 for the day of the event. Buy online at Eventbrite.com or In-person at Smyrna Recycling Center and Vickery Hardware. For sneak peeks and updates, follow Keep Smyrna Beautiful on Facebook and Instagram.
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A $1,000 grant was presented to Israa Winston of the Cobb Police Department, in recognition of her exemplary service and dedication.SOUTH COBB ROTARY HOSTS PUBLIC SAFETY APPRECIATION EVENT
The South Cobb Rotary Club proudly hosted its Annual Public Safety Appreciation Event today, honoring the dedicated service and unwavering commitment of our local public safety personnel. The event celebrated the exceptional contributions of Cobb Police, Cobb Fire, Puckett EMS, Cobb 911, Cobb Sheriff, Austell Fire, and Austell Police.
Held at the Cobb Police Training Center in Austell, the event brought together South Cobb Rotarians and public safety officials to express gratitude for the tireless efforts of these brave men and women. The ceremony included heartfelt speeches, awards presentations, and a luncheon to recognize the outstanding achievements and sacrifices made by our public safety teams.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of a $1,000 grant to Israa Winston of the Cobb Police Department, in recognition of her exemplary service and dedication. Rotary President Pamela Kramer remarked, “Today, we honor the heroes who keep our community safe. Their dedication and bravery are truly commendable, and we are grateful for their service.”
The South Cobb Rotary Club extends its deepest appreciation to all public safety personnel for their unwavering commitment to protecting and serving our community. “We look forward to continuing this tradition of recognition and support in the years to come.”
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TCSG WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT
The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Heather Pence as the new President of Chattahoochee Technical College.
Pence brings more than 20 years of experience within TCSG, most recently serving as Interim President and Executive Vice President for Operations at Chattahoochee Tech. In her previous leadership roles, she supported the college’s financial, human resources, technology, and administrative divisions, helping drive growth and operational excellence across the institution.
“Heather is a proven leader who understands the vital role Chattahoochee Tech plays in creating opportunity for students and supporting Georgia’s workforce,” said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. “Her dedication to technical education and her deep connection to the college and its mission make her the ideal choice to lead Chattahoochee Tech into its next chapter.”
“I am honored to serve as President of Chattahoochee Technical College,” said Pence. “Having dedicated my career to this college and to TCSG, I am passionate about our mission of delivering high-quality education and workforce training. I look forward to working alongside our talented faculty, staff, and partners to continue providing life-changing opportunities for our students and strengthening the communities we serve.”
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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.
MAY
First Friday Film
Friday, May 2 from 12:30. p.m. – 3. Free; Registration required. $1 Concessions
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!
Welcome to C. Freeman Poole
Tuesday, May 6 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.
Mother’s Day Brunch
Friday, May 9 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. $5; Registration required
Join us for a delicious and heartfelt brunch filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. Enjoy a delightful spread of delicious brunch foods and dessert platters.
The Crafty Corner: Suncatchers
Monday, May 12 from 11:30 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. Free; Registration required
Join us for an upscale Suncatcher Craft experience! Elevate your creativity and craft your own stunning suncatcher using materials that will add elegance and charm to any space. Presented by Amanda with South Cobb Library.
Focus & Frame: Photography Basics
Wednesday, May 14 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Photography 101 is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore the art of photography! Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, this class will teach you the essential techniques and tips to capture stunning images. Learn about composition, lighting, angles, and how to make the most of your camera’s settings.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, May 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30. 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
Freeman Foodies
Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Antico Pizza Battery Park
2605 Circle 75 Pkwy, Atlanta
Pizza & Pals
Friday, May 16 from noon – 1:30 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Enjoy a variety of tasty pizzas, from classic favorites to creative new combinations, all while sharing laughs and making memories. It’s a casual and friendly atmosphere where everyone is welcome to relax, indulge, and connect. Grab a slice, bring your pals, and let the good times roll!
Fitness Jamboree
Monday, May 19 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free; Registration required
Join us for an empowering day of fun challenges, informative wellness demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with others while embracing the theme of “Flip the Script on Aging” – a reminder that staying active and healthy knows no age limit! Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just getting started, this event is for everyone looking to stay strong, active, and engaged in their community. Let’s move, laugh, and celebrate the wonderful journey of aging with vitality!
AARP Smart Driver
Wednesday, May 21 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please arrive by 9a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members
Registration required
Freeman’s Talent Showcase
Friday, May 23 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for a heartwarming event that celebrates the incredible skills, creativity, and stories of our talented community members! Whether it’s singing, dancing, storytelling, comedy, or any other unique talent, this event provides a stage for seniors to showcase their abilities and passions.
Dementia Friends
Thursday, May 29 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
The goal of this program is to help everyone in attendance understand the five key messages about dementia and how each of us can make a difference for people living with dementia. The discussion will center around how dementia affects people, the different types of dementia, how to differentiate between normal aging and dementia and how to effectively communicate with a person with dementia. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together) and Dementia Friends of Georgia.
Brushes & Bites
Friday, May 30 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
$15 (Supply fee paid to instructor); Registration required
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of painting and dining, as you unleash your inner artist while enjoying a variety of tasty bites. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just looking to try something new, our guided sessions will help you create a masterpiece, all while savoring a selection of delectable snacks and a fancy mocktail. Instructed by Linda Cherry.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
May
3: SMYRNA GARDEN TOUR. The Smyrna Garden Tour is back on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ticketholders enjoy a self-guided tour of five Smyrna gardens and refreshments the Reed House. A plant sale, which is open to the public, will also be located at the Reed House. Tickets go on sale by the end of March. Learn more: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/garden-tour/
3: TASTE OF MABLETON. Mable House Complex, 5239 Floyd Road, Mableton, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 2025 Taste of Mableton features the flavors, people, artisans, and culture that makes the City of Mableton unique. The event features a parade, a kid’s zone, live music, performances, and more.
4: PLANT SALE. Jonquil Garden Club will hold its annual plant sale on Sunday, May 4th at the Smyrna Handmade Farmers Market, Smyrna Market Village from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plants available will be sun and shade perennials, hard-to-find plants, hostas, ferns, hellebores, annuals and a wide selection of native plants. This sale funds a yearly scholarship project.
June
14: CREEPER’S CAR SHOW. Jim Miller Park, June 14. Features music, vendors, food trucks, a swap meet, door prize, and event t-shirts. Show is open to all years of cars, trucks, and motorcycles and all proceeds from the event benefit local and national charities that work with children.
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 Nelms Masonic Lodge. 455 Concord Road SE, Smyrna. 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.
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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 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
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WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS AND ADVERTISING FOR THE MAY BRIGHT SIDE.
REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. There is still time to send your news and advertising for the May edition.
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 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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