Friday, May 30, 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 TODAY, May 30th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
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COBB SCHOOLS CELEBRATE THE CLASS OF 2025
School is out and the students have left the buildings. The graduates have received their diplomas and the tassels have been turned. Cobb school officials report that the end of the school year marks a time of celebration for more than 8,500 students across the Cobb County School District as more than 8,500 students earned Cobb Schools diplomas in 2025.
- Over $137 million in scholarships earned districtwide
- More than 70% of graduates have a post-secondary plan
- About 300 students plan to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, including 10 appointments to the U.S. military academies
- Graduates completed 216,000+ community service hours
- Valedictorians’ average GPA: 4.712 (Highest: 4.875; 12 above 4.7)
- Salutatorians’ average GPA: 4.668 (High: 4.848; 10 above 4.7; 14 above 4.5)
Cobb’s Class of 2025 is headed to top colleges and universities in Georgia and across the nation, but three universities will welcome the most Cobb students:
- Kennesaw State University
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
Many students also plan to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, including more than 20 of Cobb’s valedictorians and salutatorians. Georgia Southern University, Auburn University, and the University of Alabama are also among some of the top choices of Cobb’s Class of 2025. Graduates also earned admission to elite institutions across the Ivy League, including Princeton University, Brown University, Cornell University, Columbia University, Dartmouth College, and the University of Pennsylvania.
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Read the May Bright Side
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CONCERT AT THE VILLAGE GREEN PARK
Smyrna’s Blanket Concert Series continues this Saturday at the Reed House. Caroline Aiken and Yes, Ma’am Family Band will be performing on May 31. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic basket and enjoy an evening of music. This is a free concert. Special Blends the Bar will be on site mixing up some great cocktails!
Continue to celebrate summer with live music and fresh air at Smyrna’s Blanket Concert Series. Catch the soulful sounds of Rita Graham on Thursday, June 19 at Village Green Park.
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CREEPERS CAR SHOW COMING IN JUNE
The Creepers Car Show and Fun Run 33 will be held at Jim Miller Park, June 14. The event features music, vendors, food trucks, a swap meet, door prize, and event t-shirts. The 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.
The Creepers Car Club’s commitment to charitable giving is unparalleled. For over 25 years, the club has donated proceeds from its shows to local charities, including The Calvary Children’s Home, Right in the Community, Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital, the Children’s Miracle Network, and The American Cancer Society. These charitable donations have amounted to an impressive total of $500,000+, showcasing the club’s deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
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CHATT TECH RANKED TOP 10 MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL
Chattahoochee Technical College has been nationally recognized for its dedication to serving military veterans, earning the designation as a top ten Military Friendly® School for 2025–2026.
“The team here at Chattahoochee Tech does a fantastic job,” said Michael Payne, the college’s Director of Veteran Services. “All of our departments and community partners are dedicated to providing the very best services to help our military members, veterans and their families, and help them become successful. I am thankful for all of the wonderful support and will continue to dedicate my time and efforts serving those who have served us.”
In the 2025 spring semester, more than 450 students enrolled at Chattahoochee Tech identified as veterans or active-duty military. These students benefit from the college’s Superior Plumbing Veterans Education and Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center, located at the college’s Marietta Campus. One of only two such centers in Georgia, the VECTR Center offers a supportive space to help military-affiliated students transition into the civilian workforce and higher education. It also assists veterans in translating their military experience into skills for high-demand careers.
The Military Friendly® School designation is part of a national awards program that sets the standard for how higher education institutions support military-connected students. Founded in 2003 by VIQTORY, a service-disabled, veteran-owned business, the program highlights schools that provide exceptional opportunities for veterans and their families. To view the full list of 2025-2026 Military Friendly® Schools, visit: https://www.militaryfriendly.com/2025-2026-mfs/ |
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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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SUNDAY LECTURE: “COINS & CURRENCY IN TIMES OF STRIFE”
The Friends of the Smyrna Library will present a Sunday lecture with Jeff Jones on Sunday, June 22, from 3 – 4 p.m. The lecture will be in the Smyrna Public Library, Meeting Room, first floor and light refreshments will be served.
Jeff Jones, a longtime Friends of the Smyrna Library volunteer, will discuss the impacts to coins and currency due to the major events between 1900 and 1970. This lecture supports the “Coins & Currency in Times of Strife” exhibit – coins which are all part of his impressive personal collection – that is on display in the second-floor art gallery in the library during May and June. Enjoy Jeff’s insights into coins and currency and visit his collection at the library!
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SMYRNA MARKET WITH UNIQUE VENDORS EVERY SUNDAY!
The 2025 Smyrna Market season will run every Sunday May 4th – October 19th, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Smyrna Market Village.
Discover something new every Sunday at the Smyrna Market. This community gathering features 60+ unique vendors set up on W. Spring Street and along King Street (in front of city hall). Each week, find international foods, local honey, handmade soaps, baked goods, crafts and more! With new vendors each week, there is always something fresh to discover.
For announcements on weekly vendors or weather cancelations please follow the market on Facebook at Smyrna Handmade Market or on Instagram @SmyrnaHandmadeMarket
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ENJOY FOOD TRUCK TUESDAY
Join others for Smyrna Food Truck Tuesday each Tuesday from May 6 through September 23 (no event the week of July 4 and the week of Labor Day) at Taylor-Brawner Park from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. (3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna).
This event is the best Food Truck event series around! Enjoy the offerings from a weekly gathering of quality mobile gourmet trucks and a bit of sweet mixed in and music, too.
Please follow parking directions and remember to park legally.
Food Trucks Location and Schedule: an assortment of fabulous food trucks will gather in the lower parking spaces adjacent to the playground and mini amphitheater at Taylor-Brawner Park beginning at 5 p.m. for your enjoyment.
Check our Social Media pages Facebook.com/CityofSmyrnaGa or Instagram/CityofSmyrnaGa for weekly updates and a list of scheduled trucks.
A Couple of Things to Remember:
- If you generally visit the play area or park in that area on Tuesdays, please remember that parking will stop the evening prior to allow for safe and swift setup of the trucks on Tuesday.
- If you can walk or bike to Food Truck Tuesdays, please plan to do so. You will enjoy it and your community-minded efforts will allow a visitor to experience Smyrna and our wonderful Taylor-Brawner Park as well as the food trucks, too.
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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.
JUNE
The Crafty Corner: Giant Paper Dahlia’s
Tuesday, June 3 from 11 a.m. – noon. Free; Registration required
Get creative with us as the South Cobb Library leads a fun and relaxing craft session! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to make beautiful giant paper Dahlia’s—perfect for brightening up your space or gifting to someone special. No experience needed—all materials will be provided. Presented by Amanda Sanders with South Cobb Regional Library.
Welcome to C. Freeman Poole
Wednesday, June 4 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.
First Friday Film
Friday, June 6 from 12:3 0.p.m – 3 p.m. 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!
Learn to Belly Dance
Monday, June 9 from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30. Free; Registration required
Join us as we learn the core movements of this beautiful style of dance. We will learn a simple choreography during this session. Please wear comfortable clothing. Presented by South Cobb Regional Library.
Paths to the Past: A Genealogical Journey
Tuesday, June 10 from 11:3 0.a.m – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Curious about your family history? Join us for an informative presentation on genealogy—the art of tracing your ancestry and uncovering the stories of those who came before you. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to dig a little deeper, this session will offer helpful tools, tips, and resources to begin (or continue) your journey. Presented by South Cobb Regional Library.
Father’s Day Celebration with the Harleys of Georgia
Friday, June 13 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
$10 per person; Registration required
Rev up your Father’s Day with a special celebration at the center! Join us as the Harleys of Georgia roll in for an afternoon of fun, food, and family. We’ll be firing up the grill and serving hot dogs, burgers, and all the fixings—a classic cookout to honor all the dads and father figures in our lives. Bring the whole family and enjoy the company of our local Harley riders, great conversation, and a festive atmosphere.
A Juneteenth Documentary and Discussion
Monday, June 16 from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for a special screening and thoughtful discussion in honor of Juneteenth. Following the film, we’ll open the floor for conversation—sharing stories, reflections, and insights together. All are welcome to attend this meaningful celebration of resilience, remembrance, and hope. Presented by Freeman Poole Staff.
Understanding Alzheimer’s
Tuesday, June 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:3 0.p.m
Free; Registration required
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia, and the importance of brain health. Join us for an informative session to learn more about Alzheimer’s, the impact it has on individuals and families, and how you can help spread awareness in your community. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter.
Cooking Class: Summertime Salad
Wednesday, June 18 11 a.m. – noon
Free: Registration required
Summertime is Salad Time, Join us for a class on how to make your own salad dressing. If you are like me, you have tried every salad dressing in the store. Homemade salad dressing taste fresh and it is much better for your health with all natural ingredients, no preservatives. Learn how to make your own dressing and how to grow your own salad greens. Presented by Terri Carter with the Cobb UGA-Extension.
Classic Car Show
Friday, June 20 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Get ready to step back in time and admire some serious style! The Classic Glass Corvette Club is rolling into the center with a stunning display of vintage and modern Corvettes. Come chat with the proud owners, take photos, and enjoy the beauty and history of these iconic cars up close. Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or just love a good stroll down memory lane, this event is sure to rev your engines! Presented by the Classic Glass Corvette Club.
Freeman Foodies
Friday, June 20 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
Lunch on your own; Registration required
McCray’s Tavern
4500 W Village Pl #2009,
Smyrna, GA 30080
Bingo Bash
Monday, June 23 from noon – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available.
The Pharmacy – Dietary Supplements
Tuesday, June 24 from 10 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Our resident Pharmacist will go over all the major supplements and discuss efficacy and other things to watch out for when deciding which supplements are right for you. Most of us take some form of a supplement. Come learn which ones are good and which ones do nothing. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together).
AARP Smart Driver
Wednesday, June 25 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Please arrive by 9 a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members
Registration required
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, June 26 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.
Snakes of Georgia
Thursday, June 26 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Slither into something exciting! Join us for a fascinating educational seminar on the snakes of Georgia. Learn how to identify common species, understand their role in the environment, and get the facts on which ones are harmless and which to avoid. This hands-on experience is both fun and informative. Whether you’re curious or cautious, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for these misunderstood creatures! Presented by Cobb County Water System’s.
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River in Murphy, NC
Friday, June 27 from 8 a.m. – 7p.m. (Check-in by 7:45 a.m.)
$60; Registration required. Come along with Freeman Poole for a fun day trip to Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River in Murphy, NC. Bring a photo ID (state or federal issued) and your Total Rewards Card. If you do not have a Total Rewards Card, you will be issued one. A secondary ID is required for a jackpot. No backpacks allowed in the casino. To receive your $20 game credit, you must provide a current email address. Lunch is on your own in the Harrah’s food court.
Payment due at registration. Registration deadline: May 27. Price includes motor coach transportation, $20 game credit (applicable only if you provide a current email address), snacks and tips. No refunds will be given unless the trip is cancelled. Activity Level 2 – Limited walking.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
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.
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/
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 JUNE 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 June 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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