Friday, October 9, 2026 • 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 edition is October 23rd. Contact us at news@brightsidecobb.com.
|
|
MID-TERM ELECTION DATE DRAWS NEAR
November 3 is the official election day for the mid-term elections in Georgia and nationwide. Georgians will be voting for Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary of State, and many more state-wide offices, including and all state house and state senate seats. Also on the ballot is one US Senate seat and all US congressional seats.,
The registration deadline for the November General Election is October 5. The first day of advance voting for November general election is October 13. The deadline to request absentee ballot for November general election is October 23.
|
|
Read the September Bright Side
|
|
|
MABLETON MAYOR TO GIVE STATE OF CITY ADDRESS
Join Mableton Mayor Michael Owens when he gives the 2026 State of the City Address on Thursday, October 15 at the Riverside EpiCenter. 135 Riverside Parkway. The Mayor will reflect on the city’s progress and share the vision for the future of our city
The 2026 State of the City Address will highlight key milestones, community achievements, and strategic plans as we focus on the theme: Building Tomorrow, Delivering Today.
The reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and the theatre will open at 6:30 with the program beginning at 7 p.m. Please RSVP by registering for FREE Tickets.: https://bit.ly/4A0YSS7
|
|
FRIENDS OF SMYRNA LIBRARY PRESENTS:
MURDER MYSTERY NIGHT
Join Friends of Smyrna Library for “Murder Mystery Night: An Old Hollywood Whodunnit.” featuring The Murder Mystery Company players and presented by the Friends of Smyrna Library on October 30. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Smyrna Public Library.
Come to the quintessential whodunnit thriller at the estate of Sir Warren Peace and get thrown into a night of mystery, intrigue, and murder you will never forget. With a killer crowd of people just waiting for murder to arrive on the scene, this night will keep everyone looking over their shoulders and guessing who the next victim will be! Bribe suspects for clues and gather information to be the first to uncover the unhinged guest who is behind the mystery of the murders. Just be careful, because you could be next.
The theme is the Roaring Twenties; costumes of any type are encouraged but not required. This special event will be held on Friday, October 30 at 7 p.m. at Brawner Hall, 3180 Atlanta Road SE, Smyrna. Light appetizers and N/A beverages are included. Guests must be ages 16+. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Smyrna Public Library. |
|
MAYOR NORTON’S STATE OF THE CITY
Residents, business leaders, and community partners came together on Tuesday, September 29, for Smyrna’s annual State of the City address, which highlighted recent accomplishments and initiatives planned for the year ahead. Hosted by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce at the Smyrna Community Center, Mayor Derek Norton presented the city’s progress over the past year and outlined priorities for the future. Centered on the theme, “Why Smyrna?”, the event emphasized the city’s quality of life, amenities, long-term vision, and commitment to community involvement.
“In the Jonquil City, we believe a great city is measured not by its population, but by the scale of its vision.” – Mayor Derek Norton.
(story and photos provided by the City of Smyrna)
|
|
COLLEGE FOOTBALL SATURDAY IS BACK
Can’t make the trip to the stadium, but love that tailgate atmosphere? Join us at Village Green Park for the big game from 3 p.m.- 5 p.m. Along with the game we will have a live DJ, prizes, and giveaways! Admission is free to all. Just bring your chairs and cheer your team on to victory! This all-ages event is free to attend.
Dates:
- October 17 Starting the party early at noon
- November 7
- December 5
|
|
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.
|
|
|
CRAFTS AND DRAFTS FESTIVAL OCTOBER 24-25
It’s Fall and time for the Smyrna Crafts & Drafts Fall Festival October 24 and 25. Shop the crafts festival, while enjoying a draft, watch some football and soak up the warm and gentle sunshine on your shoulders in our downtown. You can expect 150 arts and crafts booths, food booths, live music and plenty of children’s activities. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday in downtown Smyrna around City Hall. Admission is FREE.
|
|
UNDERSTANDING MEDICARE 2027
Wanda Caraballo, a Licensed Benefits Advisor, will present Medicare updates for 2027 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21 at the RedBud Blossom Family Justice Center
277 Fairground St. NE, Marietta.
Topics will include:
• Medicare Basics (Parts A, B, C, D): what’s covered,
• cost, and how they work together
• Prescription Drug Coverage: How Part D plans differ,
• how formularies work, and how to avoid unexpected
expenses
• Additional benefits you may qualify for
• Avoiding common mistakes
The presentation will include a Q & A Session and refreshments will be provided. Register at https://tinyurl.com/y92atyeb |
|
SMYRNA MARKET OPEN EVERY SUNDAY
Discover something new at the Smyrna Market very Sunday, in the Market Village. This community gathering features 60+ unique vendors set up on W. Spring Street and along King Street (in front of city hall). Each Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you will 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 |
|
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
iPhone Basics and Internet navigation
Monday, October 12 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Free; Registration required
Learn the basics of using your iPhone and navigating the internet with confidence! This beginner-friendly class will cover essential iPhone features, including making calls, sending texts, adjusting settings, using apps, and taking photos. Participants will also learn how to safely browse the internet, search for information, recognize trustworthy websites, and avoid common online scams. Bring your iPhone and come ready to learn, practice, and ask questions!
Genealogy 101
Tuesday, October 13 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Free, Registration required
Learn the basics of researching your family history and uncovering the stories behind your family tree. Participants will learn how to get started, organize family information, interview relatives, and use
on-line genealogy resources to find records and build their family tree. Led by Cobb County Library
Protection from Infectious Diseases
Wednesday, October 14 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Free, Registration required
This educational session will cover proper hand hygiene, vaccinations, recognizing symptoms of illness, when to stay home or seek medical care, and simple everyday habits that help protect you, your family, and your community. Participants will leave with easy-to-follow tips to support a healthier lifestyle and greater peace of mind. Presented by Rachel Franklin from Cobb & Douglas Public Health.
The Freeman Poole Page Turners
Thursday, October 15 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 Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins.
Dental Hygiene Awareness
Tuesday, October 15 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Free, Registration required
October is National Dental Hygiene Month. Learn the importance of dental hygiene and what changes to be aware of as we age. Presented by Fortis College Dental program.
Tips and Tricks for Getting Your Legal Affairs in Order
Monday, October 19 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Free; Registration required
Take the guesswork out of preparing for the future! This informative class will help seniors understand important legal documents and decisions, including wills, powers of attorney, advance directives, and estate planning basics. Learn practical tips for organizing important paperwork, communicating your wishes with loved ones, and making sure your affairs are in order. Bring your questions and leave with helpful information and resources to help you plan with confidence. Led by Orcutt Law Offices.
Breast Cancer Awareness
Tuesday, October 20 from 1 p.m. – 2 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. Presented by Cobb and Douglass Public Health
MyChart- Take Charge of Your Health
Wednesday, October 21 from 11 a.m. – noon
Free; Registration required
This class will teach you the basic features of MyChart, how to maneuver through the system and tips for maximizing its benefits. Bring your “smart” device along so you can get hands on practice. This presentation will be presented by Helen Slaven with B.E.S.T (Broadening & Enriching Seniors Together)
Bingo
Monday, October 26 from noon – 2 p.m.
$3; Registration required
Join us for fun games of Bingo.
Snacks and prizes available.
AARP SmartDrive Course
Wednesday, October 28 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please arrive by 9 a.m.
$20 AARP members; $25 Non-members; Registration required
Refresh your driving skills and knowledge of the rules of the road by taking the full-length classroom Smart Driver Course. Learn techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way, and roundabouts. Discover proven driving methods to help keep you and your loved ones safe of the road.
|
|
|
BRIGHT SIDE CALENDAR
FOR SMYRNA/VININGS/MABLETON/AUSTELL
October
17: BULKY TRASH AMNESTY DAY. Got big items you need to toss? Smyrna residents can drop off bulky trash items for FREE at this amnesty event. This is for City of Smyrna residents only. October 17 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. All participants must provide proof of residency. Learn more here.
20: 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 20, at 10 a.m. at John Knox Presbyterian Church, 505 Powers Ferry Road, 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: AUSTELL PRES ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT. Austell Presbyterian Church (5895 Love Street, Austell) is excited to host our 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat on Sunday, October 25 from 2-4 p.m.! Join us for an afternoon of candy, costumes, decorated trunks, and plenty of family fun. Bring the kids, invite your friends and neighbors, and come enjoy this fun community event with us! For more information, visit www.austellpres.org or follow us on Instagram @austellpres.
27: JONQUIL GARDEN CLUB. The Jonquil Garden Club monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 27, at the Smyrna Community Center, 200 Village Green Circle, Smyrna in the Jonquil Room. The October program will be: “Pollinators and Native Plants” presented by a Master Gardener volunteer from Cobb County UGA Extension. Each meeting includes information on horticulture and a presentation that will enhance your knowledge of gardening. Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month (Sept-May) from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. New members are always welcome! Jonquil Garden Club includes members from novice to master gardeners. For more information visit our Facebook page (“Jonquil Garden Club of Smyrna, GA”) or contact our President, Michele Cox at jgcprez@gmail.com
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.
Extra Bright Sides
EXTRA COPIES: Looking for an extra copy of The Bright Side? Copies are available each month in the Smyrna Library, the Smyrna Community Center, Vickery Hardware, and Jonquil Publix Atlanta Road, Smyrna; and Kroger on South Cobb Drive, Smyrna. Mableton Pharmacy, Floyd Road Kroger; and the Mable House Arts Center. 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
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.
|
|
|
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/
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.
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 770-426-9347 or e-mail to news@brightsidecobb.com
|
|
|
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. Please send your news and advertising to me at news@brightsidecobb.com or cslipsett@att.net
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, the Smyrna Community Center, Publix at Jonquil Plaza on Atlanta Road, Smyrna Kroger on South Cobb Drive and at Vickery Hardware. Also available at Cobb Hospital, the Treadmill, Austell, the Floyd Road Kroger, Mable House Arts Center, and Mableton Pharmacy.
Cathy Lipsett
Publisher/owner, The Bright Side Newspaper for Southern Cobb
The Bright Side Newspaper (for Smyrna, Vinings, Mableton and Austell) and the eWeekly are owned and published by Lipsett & Associates, Inc. Owner and publisher is Cathy Lipsett.
|
|
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 770-426-9347 or e-mail to news@brightsidecobb.com.
|
|
|
|
