Thursday, July 3, 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 August issue is July 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
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CELEBRATING OUR NATION’S INDEPENDENCE
As Americans, we celebrate our national Independence on July 4th each year. Fireworks, gatherings of families and political parties and friends and neighbors mark a day that brought together colonists with a strong conviction that “all men are created equal” and that “they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” They knew that “to secure these rights,” the new country of independent colonies needed their own government, separate from the rule of King George.
Today, we are a mighty country of 50 United States, with one Constitution, that creates a federal government, yet protects the rights of the people within their individual states. As we remember the celebrations of this year’s July 4th, let us be vigilant to preserve these freedoms; that we don’t become complacent; that we continue to charge our leaders at the highest levels to keep the oath they take to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.
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Now Available! Read the June/July Bright Side
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MARIETTA’S 4TH OFFERS PARADE AND FIREWORKS
The City of Marietta’s “4th In The Park” Celebration begins July 4, at 10 a.m. and includes a parade, free live concerts, arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and fireworks finale. View Temporary Street Closures.
Marietta Event Schedule
- 10 a.m. Let Freedom Ring Parade
- 10a.m. thru 9 p.m. Festival – Arts & Crafts, Kid’s Zone, Festival Food, Free Concerts
- noon Concert, Featuring Scott Thompson
- 2 p.m. Bell Ringing Ceremony
- 2:30 p.m. Atlanta Concert Band
- 7 p.m. Cat Carter
- 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Featuring: Chuck Martin and the Line Up
- FIREWORKS SHOW AT DARK
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POWDER SPRINGS’ 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
The City of Powder Springs is presenting its annual free-to-the-public 4th of July Celebration with two live bands, food vendors, arts & crafts vendors, kids’ area and ac4vi4es, a car show featuring classic and modern rides, and a fabulous fireworks show to conclude the evening.
To be held downtown and within Thurman Springs Park (4485 Pineview Drive), festivities begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 4, with the fireworks show firing up around 9:30 p.m. The pyrotechnics will launch from Powder Springs Park. The event concludes at 10 p.m. Kicking off the evening’s live music on the Thurman Springs Park stage at 6 p.m. will be Black Lion Reggae, which will bring energy and rhythm with its reggae spin on classic hits and contemporary favorites. Taking the stage just before 8 p.m. will be The A Town A List, whose impressive musical, vocal, dance and theatre experience will entice attendees to the dance floor.
Free public parking areas near downtown include the Brownsville Road lot across from Powder Springs Park, and the First Bap4st Church and First United Methodist Church parking lots. (Powder Springs Park will be closed for firework setup.) A free shuttle service running from 5:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. will be available. Handicap parking for those with a placard or tag will be available at Jackson Way and Oakview Drive. For more informa4on on Powder Springs’ 4th of July Celebra4on, visit cityofpowdersprings.org. |
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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 through 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 now 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.
JULY
Understanding Cholesterol
Thursday, July 3 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
Come learn what cholesterol is and why it matters. We all need some cholesterol in our bodies. But having too much can clog up arteries and lead to future health problems. Discussion will include the risk factors for high cholesterol, how to eat healthier to lower your cholesterol and what lifestyle changes you should make. Discover the medications that can lower cholesterol as well. Most importantly, learn the importance of your role and that of your medical care team. Whether already taking cholesterol lowering medication or just wanting to avoid high cholesterol, join us to learn how to manage cholesterol through simple, healthy living strategies. Presented by B.E.S.T (Broadening and Enriching Seniors Together).
Rock & Roll: A Musical Journey Through Time
Monday, July 7 from noon – 1 p.m.
Free; Registration required
In honor of National Rock & Roll month, get ready to take a musical journey through the history of Rock & Roll! This fun and engaging educational presentation will explore how Rock & Roll transformed music and culture, bringing together generations through iconic songs and legendary artists. Led by C. Freeman Poole Staff.
Computer Literacy Basics
Tuesday, July 8 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Step into the digital age with confidence in our Computer Literacy class! Designed specifically for seniors, this class will help you learn the essential skills needed to navigate today’s technology. Computers will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Presented by Amanda Sanders with South Cobb Library.
Welcome to C. Freeman Poole Senior Center
Wednesday July 9 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
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.
Engage With CO-AGE
Thursday, July 10 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Free; No registration required
Join the Georgia Council on Aging (GCOA) hosted by Kimberly Haase and learn about vital legislative updates and advocacy resources available to our senior community. These will include legislative outcomes affecting seniors’ healthcare, housing, safety and rights, updates from GCOA and the Coalition of Advocated for Georgia’s Elderly (Co-AGE), and resources for seniors to get involved in advocacy.
Scoops & Stories
Friday, July 11 from noon – 1 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Come join us for a fun and delicious afternoon at our Ice Cream Social! It’s the perfect chance to relax, enjoy some classic sweet treats, make new friends and share some of your favorite childhood summer moments. Choose from a variety of ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces to create your perfect sundae. Whether you’re a fan of traditional vanilla, rich chocolate, or something a little more adventurous, there’s something for everyone!
Beginner Billiards Workshop
Monday, July 14 from 9 a.m0 – 11 a.m.
Free; Registration required
Ready to learn the basics of billiards? Join us for a fun and relaxed workshop where you’ll discover the fundamentals of this classic game! Whether you’ve never played before or want to refine your skills, this workshop will teach you everything you need to get started. Led by C. Freeman Poole Staff.
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BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
August
9: VININGS RUN FOR THE KIDS: On August 9, runners, walkers, and spectators, will gather for the 2025 Vinings Downhill 5K race. The course begins at the top of Mt. Wilkinson, winds around the Cumberland Mall area, and ends at the Lovett School (280-foot net drop). There is also a Kids 1K Fun Run and a fun Doggie Dash & Costume Contest. Register online here.
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 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 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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