Friday, October 10, 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 November issue is October 27th. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
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Tracy Styf, Executive Director, Town Center Community Improvement District, with Smyrna Mayor Derek NortonTRACY STYF NAMED SMYRNA CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
At this year’s State of the City address, Mayor Derek Norton presented Tracy Styf, Executive Director, Town Center Community Improvement District, with the 2025 Smyrna Citizen of the Year award. With 25 years of experience across civic, private, and nonprofit sectors, Tracy Styf is a recognized leader in community and economic development, known for her strategic insights and visionary leadership.
As the Executive Director of the Town Center Community Improvement District, Styf collaborates with decision-makers, elected officials, business leaders, investors, and government agencies with the goal of making the Town Center Community one of the most accessible, prosperous, and exciting areas in metro Atlanta.
Under her direction, the Town Center CID has secured more than $130M in grant funding for projects like the award-winning Skip Spann Connector and Noonday Creek Trail. She currently oversees 15 projects totaling $75M, with a focus on improving transportation, public spaces, and regional connectivity. Styf has also led the following projects and initiatives: the first three phases of the South Barrett Reliever, the Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Study and Freight Cluster Plan, the Regional Connected Vehicle Program, and the state’s first CID bikeshare program.
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Now Available! Read the October Bright Side!
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WOMEN’S BUSINESS FORUM OCT. 22
On October 22nd, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The Smyrna Business Association will host the 4th Annual Women’s Business Forum at the Hotel Indigo Atlanta – Vinings, 2857 Paces Ferry Road. Click here for registration
Check in is at 8:30 a.m. with the program starting at 9 a.m. This year’s Forum will include 3 fabulous speakers:
- Allison Giddens, Co-President at Win-Tech, a veteran-owned, woman-owned small business manufacturer. Topic: “Not the Plan, Still the Boss.”
- Joyette Holmes, Vice Chair of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles
- Cherie Caldwell, a transformative leadership consultant and coach.
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CRAFTS & DRAFTS FESTIVAL OCTOBER 25-26
Smyrna’s Crafts & Drafts Festival, presented by Superior Plumbing, is set for Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, October 26 from noon to 5 p.m. This festival was formally created as the Fall Jonquil Festival.
The Smyrna Crafts and Drafts Festival, presented by Superior Plumbing, features over 150 Arts and Crafts booths, a variety of food booths, an entertainment stage, a children’s section, big screen TVs with all the big games, and a beer garden. Bring the family to shop, play, eat, drink and have an amazing day together.
Artisans from all over the southeast will feature hand-made crafts, paintings, clothing, furniture, jewelry and much more. The festival food choices include a wide variety, from cotton candy, candy apples, corn dogs, hand-dipped ice cream, and snow cones to Polish sausage, chicken sandwiches, Mexican street corn, and Williamson Brothers BBQ. The abundance of children’s activities includes big and small inflatables, sand art, and much more. With a wide selection of festival foods, entertainment, activities, and arts & crafts there is fun to be had for the whole family.
Peter Hart’s puppet show appeals to everyone with unique marionettes and puppet characters that sing, dance, juggle, play fiddle, break apart and come back together, squirt water, and are even launched by catapult across the stage! Patrons will enjoy interacting with Peter & his puppets through musical and comical performances.
Grab a beer and sip away the afternoon to the soulful sounds of Scott Thompson performing all the songs you know and love adjacent to the Food Court. Bring a blanket, sing-a-long, and relax in a beautiful setting with the family. Then gear up for College Football on the big screen. And once again, the Smyrna Police Department will be hosting a costume contest for the kids, complete with prizes and trick or treating opportunities.
The festival takes place near Market Village & Around City Hall, 2800 King Street, Smyrna. Plenty of parking is available for this free event. For more information, call JRM Management at 770-423-1330.
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COLLEGE FOOTBALL SATURDAYS
Can’t make it to the stadium but still want that unmatched tailgate experience? Join us on select Saturdays at 3:00 PM in Village Green Park for College Football Saturdays; a free community event celebrating the biggest games of the season!
Event Dates:
- October 18
- November 15
- December 6
Enjoy a live DJ, fun giveaways, and chances to win prizes. Registration is not required – just bring your chairs, wear your team colors, and get ready to cheer your team to victory!
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MABLETON TALKS #1
The Mableton Improvement Council (MIC) will sponsor Mableton Talks #1 on October 20 at 6:30 p.m.
Cobb County Board of Elections Board Members Stacy Efrat and Jennifer Mosbacher will speak on the upcoming November 4th mid-term elections. They will cover dates and places for early voting, candidates running and more.
Given the importance of this election, a special Zoom call invitation will be extended beyond MIC members to all recipients of the MIC newsletter. The invite will be sent one week prior to the October 20 date.
Also, please let us know via email, of any questions you would like addressed. Send your inquiries and emails to info@mableton.org.
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BLANKET CONCERT SERIES BEGINS
Enjoy free live music at Smyrna’s Blanket Concert Series this fall. An onsite bar will be available with drinks for purchase. Registration is not required, so grab your friends, a blanket, and enjoy the music.
The concert dates and locations are:
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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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SMYRNA MARKET WITH UNIQUE VENDORS EVERY SUNDAY!
The 2025 Smyrna Market season will run every Sunday now – 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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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.
OCTOBER
Crafty Creations: Halloween Candy Jars
Tuesday, October 14 from 10:30 a.m. – noon
$5; Registration required
Create a spooky candy holder using plastic bowls and terracotta pots painted in Halloween colors like black, orange, and ghostly white and fill it with some candy.
Welcome to C. Freeman Poole Senior Center
Wednesday October 15 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.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, October 16 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.
Understanding Breast Cancer: Prevention and Support
Thursday, October 16 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Join us for an informative session dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. Learn about the importance of early detection, common risk factors, prevention tips, and available screening options. This session will also provide valuable information on support services for patients and families affected by breast cancer. Whether you want to protect yourself or support a loved one, this event is designed to empower our community with knowledge and resources to promote health and hope. Presented by the Center of Clinical Services Department of Health.
Estate Planning Financial and Asset Protection #49394
Friday, October 17 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Join us for an insightful presentation focused on the essentials of estate planning and protecting your financial assets. Learn how to create a comprehensive plan that ensures your wishes are honored, your loved ones are cared for, and your assets are safeguarded. Topics will include wills, trusts, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and strategies to minimize taxes and avoid probate. Presented by Joy Green Armstrong with Green Armstrong Law.
Freeman Foodies
Friday, October 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lunch on your own; Registration required
Atkins Park Tavern
2840 Atlanta Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080
Craft & Create: Card Making Month Workshop
Tuesday, October 21 from 10:30 a.m. – noon
$5 (Paid to instructor on the day of workshop); Registration required
Join us as we celebrate Card Making Month with a fun and hands-on card making class! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this class is the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity and learn new techniques to design beautiful, personalized cards. Create heartfelt cards for any occasion while connecting with fellow craft lovers in a friendly and inspiring environment. All materials will be provided.
AARP Smart Driver
Wednesday, October 22 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Please arrive by 9 a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members; Registration required
Trip to Mercier Orchards
Thursday, October 23 from 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
$6; Registration required
Join us for a fun and relaxing day trip to Mercier Orchards, one of Georgia’s most beloved family-owned orchards! Enjoy scenic views, fresh mountain air, and the chance to pick seasonal fruits and explore the market full of homemade jams, fresh-baked goods, local wines, and unique gifts. Whether you’re walking through the orchards, sipping cider, or just soaking in the charm of the countryside, this trip is a perfect way to enjoy a taste of North Georgia’s natural beauty. Registration deadline is September 26.
Bingo Bash
Monday, October 27 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo. Snacks and prizes available.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
October
11: HARVEST FESTIVAL at the Mable House, 5239 Floyd Road, Mableton from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Food, games, music and more. This is a free event.
21: 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, October 21, at 10 a.m. at John Knox Presbyterian Church, 505 Powers Ferry Rd, 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.
25-26: CRAFTS AND DRAFTS (replacing the fall Jonquil Festival). In downtown Smyrna. Arts and Crafts booths, food booths, and children’s activities. Lots of fun for the whole family. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday the 25 and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday the 2.
Weekly Organizations
BOY SCOUT TROOP 1: Join Troop 1 Smyrna, where adventure meets leadership. Our vibrant Scouts BSA troop is Scout-led, thriving on teamwork, camaraderie, and the values of the Scout Oath and Law. We camp monthly, explore exciting outdoor adventures, and focus on building skills that last a lifetime. Meetings are held on Sundays from 4:30 to 6 p.m., providing a welcoming space to grow, lead, and have fun—except on holiday weekends or during our thrilling camping trips. Come be part of the adventure and discover what makes Troop 1 a community like no other. Website: troop1smyrna.com. Email: troop1smyrna@gmail.com Phone: 770-742-8858
SCOUTING AMERICA TROOP 220 (FOR BOYS) AND 1872 (FOR GIRLS). Come to Life Church to enjoy Scouting America’s (formally BSA) programs where we have both Boy and Girl Units. Combined with Pack 22 we provide Scouting for the whole family! Troops 1872 and 220 have monthly campouts/adventures and hold regular meetings located at Life Church Smyrna Assembly of God, 4100 King Springs Road (next to Griffin Middle School). Meetings for Troop 1872 are held on Sundays from 2 p.m. – 3:30 and for Troop 220 on Tuesdays from 6:30 – 8 p.m. We are focused on leadership, adventure, and established Scouting Values that have been around for 100+ years. For more information visit www.troopwebhost.org/Troop220smryna
SMYRNA OPTIMIST: Meets every Friday, 7 a.m.to 8 a.m.at the Nelms Masonic Lodge. 455 Concord Road SE, Smyrna. Visitors welcome.
THE JONQUIL CITY KIWANIS CLUB meets on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. at the Wolfe Center at 884 Church St. Smyrna,30080. All are welcome. Please come early for fellowship and refreshments.
SMYRNA BNI: Smyrna Business Exchange BNI, the largest and most successful BNI Chapter in all North Georgia (including the Atlanta Metro area) meets Thursday mornings from 7 a.m. until 8:30 (networking, coffee and breakfast starting at 6:45 a.m.) The group meets at Smyrna First Baptist Church, 1275 Church St SE, Smyrna. Enter behind the church in the “Welcome Center.” You can reach them online at: bniatl.com
TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS! T-Toasters of Vinings is once again holding live meetings every Wednesday night starting at 6 p.m. Our meetings are held at 2727 Paces Ferry Rd, Building 2 in the 3rd floor conference room. Look for our banner and come join the fun! For more information visit t-toasters.com or email amberenson@gmail.com.
VININGS CUMBERLAND ROTARY CLUB. In person weekly meeting, and on zoom, every Wednesday at 12 noon. The meetings are held at Copeland’s of New Orleans, 3101 Cobb Parkway, Vinings. For more information, go to viningsrotary.org, or contact Shawn Bendig at shawnbendig@att.net or 404-374-6027
SMYRNA ROTARY CLUB meets Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m. Join for a warm welcome, great fellowship, wonderful speakers, and community, national and international service projects. For more information, email Smyrna Rotary Club at f2@nfiweb.com.
GIRL SCOUTS. Girl Scout Troop 625 (K – 6th Grades) is recruiting! We have age level meetings for Mondays or Thursdays at Austell First United Methodist Church. Contact us at 470-399-3629 or troop625rocks@gmail.com.
Groups
RELATIONSHIPS IN RECOVERY. The oldest meeting on campus meets every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. in the Pro North building at Ridgeview Institute, 3995 S. Cobb Drive, Smyrna. A 12-step format meeting helping people in relationships with the many aspects of recovery.
E-mail your organization’s calendar news to news@brightsidecobb.com. Please send in a Word format as short as possible and no flyers. Calendar items also go into the electronic weekly every Friday. To subscribe to the eWeekly go to www.brightsidecobb.com and click on the red button.
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NOTES AND NOTICES
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
MONTHLY RECYCLING CENTER TOURS. The City of Smyrna Recycling Center offers monthly tours on the third Friday of the month (except for holidays) at 9 am. You can register to attend by visiting: https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/education/
SERVICES
GOOD RASCAL DOG TRAINING: Certified Dog Trainer offers Private Dog Training in your home or other mutually convenient location. Positive, gentle methods make training fun for dog and owner. Licensed, Bonded and Insured. For details, see our website: www.mygoodrascal.com. To set up a consultation, email: gary@mygoodrascal.com or call 770-401-7945.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT. Throughout the year, Keep Smyrna Beautiful will continue regular volunteer events, including Community Cleanups, Storm Drain Marking, and Adopt-a-Mile. Interested in volunteering? Fill out our online volunteer application, which can be found at https://keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/volunteer/
EXTRA COPIES
EXTRA COPIES: Looking for an extra copy of The Bright Side? Copies are available each month in the Smyrna Library, the Smyrna Community Center, and Jonquil Publix Atlanta Road, Smyrna; Mableton Pharmacy, Floyd Road Kroger; and in Austell: The Treadmill. Also available at advertiser locations. On our website, www.brightsidecobb.com, sign up for out electronic weekly that has more local news and calendar items every Friday.
PLACING NOTES AND NOTICES ADS: Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, or in –home child care? We accept short reader ads for a fee of $25 per 50 words. The ads, with check, should be mailed or delivered to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. Ad copy should also be e-mailed to: ads@brightsidecobb.com. Check or credit card payments accepted. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. Home sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to news@brightsidecobb.com
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WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS AND ADVERTISING FOR THE BRIGHT SIDE.
REACH OUT to potential new customers/clients through the electronic and print editions of The Bright Side. The October Bright Side has been mailed and is at vendor locatons. Deadline for the November print edition of the Bright Side is October 27.
Give me a call or email and let’s see how a Bright Side ad can benefit your business. I also welcome good news about people in the community. Give me a phone call at 770-426-9388 or email me at cslipsett@att.net
You can now read the print and the electronic editions of The Bright Side anytime on my website: www.brightsidecobb.com. In addition to direct mail delivery to homes, extra print copies of The Bright Side are available at the Smyrna Public Library, at the Jonquil Publix on Atlanta Road, Smyrna Kroger on South Cobb Drive and at Vickery Hardware. Also available at the Treadmill, Austell, the Floyd Road Kroger and Mableton Pharmacy.
Cathy Lipsett
Publisher/owner, The Bright Side Newspaper for Southern Cobb
The electronic weekly is a publication of Lipsett and Associates, Inc., publisher of The Bright Side Newspaper. Publisher and editor is Cathy Lipsett with electronic design by Peter Lipsett.
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Advertisers: Reach New Customers
Advertisers, the Bright Side is the best way to reach thousands of homes within a few minutes driving time of your business. The deadline for each issue is the 23rd of the month. Publication is the first week of the upcoming month. Send to news@brightsidecobb.com.
Notes And Notices
Holding a garage sale? Selling or renting your home, need an employee, tutoring, teaching, in-home child care? We accept short reader ads (up to 50 words) for a fee of $25 per month.
Email the ad to news@brightsidecobb.com and send checks to The Bright Side, 3330 Cumberland Blvd. Suite 500, Vinings, GA 30339. (No copy accepted by phone) and received prior to our deadline of the 23rd of each month. Publication is in the first week of the following month. We also accept credit card payment. Home-based business ads accepted only if they do not conflict with our display advertisers. House for sale ads are for homeowners only. For information, call 770-426-9388 or e-mail to news@brightsidecobb.com.
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