Cobb Tax Assessors board names new director, chief appraiser

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Cobb Tax Assessors board names new director chief appraiserOn Wednesday, the Cobb County Board of Tax Assessors appointed Christine Stinchcomb as the new Director and Chief Appraiser of the Tax Assessors Office.

Stinchcomb brings over 25 years of experience in property tax services, beginning her career at the Paulding County Tax Assessors Office before serving as a manager with the Georgia Department of Revenue. Most recently, she held the position of Commercial Division Manager at the Cobb County Board of Tax Assessors Office.

She succeeds Stephen White, who was recently promoted to Support Services Director for Cobb County Government.

The Chief Appraiser is a state-mandated position responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of the Tax Assessors Office and overseeing the appraisal of every parcel in the county at least once every three years.

A Cobb County resident, Stinchcomb has two grown sons.

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Atlanta Ballet to debut George Balanchine’s ‘Coppélia’

Atlanta Ballet debuts George Balanchine’s Coppélia in March
Atlanta Ballet Dancers Denys Nedak and Madison Penney perform in “Coppélia.” Photo copyright Rachel Neville.

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Atlanta Ballet is delighted to present the beloved classic by an iconic choreographer George Balanchine’s Coppélia March 21-23 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. This family-friendly performance will feature Atlanta Ballet company dancers and a large cast of talented students from the Centre for Dance Education, bringing the enchanting tale to life.

Set to the enchanting score by Léo Delibes performed live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra, this comic ballet centers on a playful heroine determined to save the young man to whom she is betrothed and a pivotal encounter with an eccentric toy maker and his mysterious daughter Coppélia, who is a whimsical creation from his workshop which he imagines bringing to life using his magic book.

This production marks a special occasion as it will be the first time that Atlanta Ballet has presented this ballet. Balanchine’s original choreography, known for its intricate and playful storytelling, will shine with the added energy of young performers, ensuring a fresh and exciting take on this classic ballet. 

“This charming story, full of humor, drama and romance, is perfect for families and newcomers to ballet, and we’re excited to present it in a way that feels both magical and entertaining” said Atlanta Ballet Artistic Director Gennadi Nedvigin. “This is the largest production Atlanta Ballet will bring onstage merging its professional dancers with student of different ages from our own Centre for Dance Education in history, which will make these performances truly special.”

The “love conquers all” story set in a small town features a quartet of central characters including quirky inventor Dr. Coppélius and pawn as his beautiful daughter Coppélia and a bride and groom to be, Frantz and Swanilda. The show includes mischief, mistaken identity, comedy and action as characters overcome obstacles. The ballet culminates in a grand festival.

For more information about Atlanta Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s Coppélia and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.atlantaballet.com/performances. Tickets can be purchased online at atlantaballet.com or in person at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre box office. For groups of twenty or more, please order tickets via the groupsales@atlantaballet.com email.

Dodgen MS students excel at Georgia Science Olympiad

Dodgen MS students excel at Georgia Science Olympiad

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Dodgen Middle School’s Science Olympiad Team continues its legacy of excellence! Dodgen students recently claimed first place at the Regional Tournament held at Georgia State University, securing a spot at the State Tournament on April 19 at the University of Georgia.

The competition was intense, with 21 teams from 15 different middle schools—including fellow Cobb County schools McCleskey Middle and Campbell Middle—vying for a chance to advance. Science Olympiad challenges students in 23 STEM events, from building structures like towers and air trajectory devices to demonstrating knowledge in earth science, chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering.

Dodgen’s Science Olympiad program has been a powerhouse since 2001, consistently ranking among the best in the state. The team has won regionals multiple times, including the past two consecutive years. In the last 11 state tournaments (excluding 2020), Dodgen has placed first or second, earning the opportunity to compete at Nationals against top teams from across the country and Japan. Under the leadership of Coach Barbara Kappel, the team has made Nationals the past two years, a streak they hope to continue.

“I am so proud of the hard work and commitment our students have put in this year to continue Dodgen’s Science Olympiad success!” said Mrs. Kappel, who has coached the team to consecutive national appearances.

A Commitment to Excellence

Dodgen’s Science Olympiad program is so popular that the school has fielded three full teams for the past two years. Fifteen students per team compete in three or four different events, preparing weekly by conducting research, building and testing devices, and refining their problem-solving skills. With the help of dedicated parents and community volunteers, students sacrifice countless hours during the week and on weekends to strengthen their skills.

Science Olympiad isn’t just about competition—it fosters a collaborative community of young scientists and engineers. Older students take on leadership roles, guiding younger teammates and helping them grow in confidence and ability.

As Dodgen prepares for the state competition, the school community is cheering them on. A strong performance could earn them a third consecutive trip to Nationals at the University of Nebraska in late May.

Congratulations to the Dodgen Middle School Science Olympiad Team, Coach Kappel, and the dedicated parent and community volunteers who make this success possible!

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PORCH-Marietta donates 100K pounds of food to local pantries

PORCH-Marietta donates 100K pounds of food to local pantries
PORCH-Marietta volunteer Tara Randall stocking food cans at a Cobb elementary school.

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PORCH Marietta, an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to reducing food insecurity, celebrates its third anniversary by announcing it has donated over 100,000 pounds of groceries to Marietta food pantries since its inception in February 2022. This translates into over 83,000 meals for neighbors in need.

In 2024, PORCH Marietta’s network of participating neighborhoods held 398 food drives and delivered more than 54,000 pounds of food to serve over 44,000 individuals. They also helped start a new food pantry serving students at Marietta Middle School. In addition, PORCH Marietta used financial donations to provide over $4000 worth of fresh milk and eggs to the Center for Family Resources and a year’s worth of snacks for students at each of 12 different Cobb County and Marietta City Title 1 schools.

“In 2025, we are seeing a growing number of people facing food insecurity,” said Liz Platner, chapter leader of PORCH Marietta.  “By picking up a few items next time you’re shopping and leaving them on your porch or by contributing financially, you can help us make a meaningful change in Marietta. This is the power of crowdsourcing – individual donations of all sizes create a big impact.”

PORCH Communities was started in 2011 in Chapel Hill, and there are now over 550 neighborhoods in 13 states serving their local communities. PORCH chapters have collectively distributed more than $15 million worth of food to neighbors in need. The PORCH Marietta chapter was founded in February 2022.

Contributing non-perishable food to 15 local food pantries on a monthly basis is the flagship program of PORCH Marietta. To date, PORCH Marietta has donated over 100,000 pounds of food to these pantries. They collect food via monthly neighborhood food drives, based on customized wish lists from the pantries. Neighbors put the requested groceries out on their porch and volunteers pick up and deliver them to the pantries. Currently there are over 50 Marietta neighborhoods participating. To add your neighborhood to the team, contact marietta@porchcommunities.org.  For more information or to make a financial contribution, visit  PORCH Marietta’s website.

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Cobb opts out of property tax law; starts 2028 SPLOST process

Cobb opts out of property tax law; starts 2028 SPLOST process

After hearing the pleas of citizens to opt out of a new state law capping property taxes, the Cobb Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to do just that.

By a 4-0 vote, commissioners voted against adopting HB 581, a law passed by the Georgia legislature in 2024 designed to limit property tax increases at the local level.

Georgia voters later approved a Constitutional amendment that tied property tax increases to the previous year’s inflation rate.

But citizens speaking during public comment and commissioners agreed at Tuesday’s meeting that the current homestead exemptions in Cobb are more beneficial.

Commissioner JoAnn Birrell of District 3 in East Cobb said that she received 215 messages in support of opting out of the law, and only two in favor of it.

“What we’ve had in place is better for the citizens and is beneficial for taxpayers,” she said to loud applause right before the vote.

Cobb’s decision follows similar action by the Cobb Board of Education, the Marietta City Council and Marietta Board of Education and city governments in Smyrna, Powder Springs, Acworth and Kennesaw.

Local governments have until March 1 under the new law to decide whether to opt out.

But speakers claimed Tuesday that HB 581 was altered by lobbyists to trigger automatic tax increases that elected bodies could do nothing about.

Some called HB 581 is “a shameless con” and others called it a “joke.”

Resident Ann Parsons called it “a politician’s dream. More money. No consequences.”

Chairwoman Lisa Cupid made the motion to pass the opt-out resolution, saying that “we feel the pain of our citizens who are here” and “we are fortunate to live in Cobb” because of the existing homestead exemptions.

In other action Tuesday, commissioners voted 4-0 to begin a process that would call for a referendum in 2026 to renew the Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), which collects a one-percent sales tax to fund county construction, maintenance, improvements and technology operations.

The current SPLOST ends at the end of 2027.

The resolution passed Tuesday did not indicate how long the next SPLOST collection period might be, nor did it provide an estimate for how much money would be raised.

Birrell asked deputy county manager Jimmy Gisi if it was “premature” to ask for those details.

He said it would be, because the county first must meet with officials from Cobb’s cities as well as county staff to begin developing a project list.

The maximum SPLOST collection period is six years.

The proposed timeline leading up to a 2026 referendum (click here) would include meetings with the other cities this year, followed by an Oct. 1 deadline for a draft project list to be submitted.

In early 2026, the county would conduct public input and town hall meetings, with commissioners to approve the final project list next April.

Commissioners also would have to vote separately to hold a referendum in November 2026.

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Cobb Medical Examiner identifies ‘cremains’ at funeral home

Cobb Medical Examiner identifies 'cremains' at funeral home

Nearly a year after a fire partially damaged a now-closed funeral home in Northeast Cobb, the Cobb Medical Examiner’s office has identified the cremated remains of at least 57 individuals at that building.

Cobb government said in a release Wednesday morning that Medical Examiner Christopher Gulledge has posted a list of those people whose remains were taken from the former Norman Medford Peden funeral home on Canton Road.

The funeral home had closed and the building had been scheduled for a foreclosure auction on April 23, 2024 when the fire broke out. Initial reports indicated there were no remains of any deceased.

But the county said that remains were recovered at the funeral home in November and turned over to the Cobb Medical Examiner’s Office.

“We hope to provide answers to any family with lingering questions about a loved one’s passing,” Gulledge said in the release. “Our office has worked tirelessly to identify these cremains using various methods, and we are committed to reuniting them with their families.”

His office said that if any cremains may belong to a loved one, survivors should contact the Cobb County Medical Examiner’s Office at 770-590-6596 or via email at gillian.fletcher@cobbcounty.org.

Individuals have May 30 to claim the cremains.

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East Cobb Food Scores: Tin Lizzy’s; Panera Bread; Salata; more

Tin Lizzy's The Avenue East Cobb temporarily closing

The following food scores have been compiled by the Cobb & Douglas Department of Public Health. Click the link under each listing for inspection details:

Atlanta Country Club
500 Atlanta Country Club Drive
February 21, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Domino’s Pizza
4724 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 101
February 26, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Hibachi Stop
2856 Delk Road, Suite 305
February 25, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Hoboken Bread and Bagel Co.
1033 Sandy Plains Road, Suite G
February 21, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Panera Bread
4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1530
February 24, 2025, Score: 96, Grade: A

The Phoenix at Johnson Ferry
9 Sherwood Lane
February 26, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Salata
4101 Roswell Road, Suite 1100
February 21, 2025, Score: 91, Grade: A

Tin Lizzy’s
4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1510
February 24, 2025, Score: 96, Grade: A

Wendy’s
2238 Roswell Road
February 26, 2025, Score: 97, Grade: A

Wimal Authentic Thai Food
2960 Shallowford Road, Suite 112
February 24, 2025, Score: 90, Grade: A

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60+ Georgia colleges, universities to waive application fees

Submitted information:60+ Georgia colleges, universities to waive application fees in March

The Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) has partnered with the University System of Georgia (USG), the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), and private institutions to provide application fee waivers to Georgia high school seniors through the Find Your MATCH in March initiative. Over 60 Georgia colleges and universities have agreed to waive their application fees for high school seniors between March 1-31.

“We are working to let every Georgian know there is a path to a successful career for them right here in the Peach State, starting at one of our institutions of higher learning,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “That’s why allowing our prospective students and their families an opportunity to apply to college with no application fee this month is so important. It further opens the door to a rewarding career and lets young Georgians know they can find success right here in their home state.”

This is the 8th time the Georgia Student Finance Commission has promoted application fee waivers since the initiative started in 2022. There is no limit on the number of schools a student may apply to using the application fee waivers. While application fees may vary by institution, the cost savings to high school seniors applying to multiple colleges are significant.

“Over 137,000 Georgia high school seniors have an opportunity to apply to college free in March through the GEORGIA MATCH dashboard,” said Georgia Student Finance Commission President Lynne Riley. “The Find Your MATCH in March initiative encourages seniors to take advantage of college application fee waivers, direct admissions through GEORGIA MATCH, and over $1 billion in financial aid available annually through Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and other grant and loan programs.”

Students who claim their spot at a college or university through the GEORGIA MATCH dashboard will automatically have their application fees waived. The full list of participating schools and information on how to access the application fee waivers may be found at GAfutures.org.

The mission of the Georgia Student Finance Commission is to help students pursue higher education with the least out-of-pocket costs possible. Students interested in learning more about application fee waivers, GEORGIA MATCH, scholarships, and grants may connect with their regional GSFC Outreach Representative by visiting GAfutures.org/Outreach.

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Cobb consultants propose planned development zoning category

Cobb schools SPLOST vote World Series
Truist Park spurred the development of The Battery, an example of a Planned Development category not currently included in the Cobb zoning code.

A consulting firm that is putting together a Unified Development Code proposal for Cobb County is suggesting the addition of a new mixed-use category to address “innovative” types of development that currently does not have a streamlined process under existing ordinances.

Geoff Green of Clarion Associates, a nationwide land-use and planning consulting firm, said during a Cobb Board of Commissioners work session Tuesday that the Planned Development category (PD) would make it easier to assemble such projects where they make sense.

He pointed to The Battery, the Atlanta Braves-financed restaurant, retail and entertainment center next to Truist Park, as an example of such a category.

The property also has hotels, office space and parking decks for a total in a 2.25 million-square-foot development.

Most of the land at The Battery and Truist Park is zoned regional retail commercial (RRC), which is a rarely used category in Cobb, reserved for high-intensity commercial use of at least 500,000 square feet.

Without specifying, Green said that other types of development would qualify under the Planned Development use, which would allow for modification of some standards, such as parking and landscaping.

Like any other zoning case, he said, PD cases would have to go before commissioners for approval.

Commissioner Keli Gambrill was troubled that she and her colleagues hadn’t seen the proposal before it was presented on Tuesday, saying “we haven’t been able t0 read and digest” a rather significant change.

Cobb Community Development Agency Jessica Guinn said Green’s summary is “a snapshot of what’s coming.”

Gambrill was especially concerned about a list of exceptions to the county code that would be included in the PD category, even down to details of how signs can look and how large they can be.

Guinn responded that those items are still “in progress.”

Gambrill said that “what I’m seeing is a lot of red flags” not just about the emerging PD standards but about the long-standing UDC process in general.

“We have a lot of animosity out there about this whole process and how it’s being handled.”

It’s been more than two years since the county hired Clarion Associates, at a cost of around $500,000. Gambrill and fellow Republican Commissioner JoAnn Birrell were against that measure, saying the work could have been done the Cobb Community Development Agency.

The UDC is working with the agency, whose goal, according to previous county statements, “is to produce a document that encourages and enables development and redevelopment in identified centers while preserving the unique character of the county’s rural areas.”

Cobb consultants propose planned development zoning category
Cobb Community Development Agency Director Jessica Guinn

Community development officials said it’s needed because development regulations in Cobb date back to the 1970s.

Some critics have accused the county of launching ““a war on the suburbs,” but agency officials said it’s an increasingly common approach to pulling together all components of development projects.

Guinn tried to reassure Gambrill that her office will be posting more details of the proposals as they are completed, and there will be public feedback and community meetings along the way.

Clarion’s work is taking place over several phases, given the comprehensive scope of the project.

The first installment was released in November, and includes a 97-page public draft of the UDC (you can read it here) that includes general provisions, transitional provisions, definitions, terms of construction and related topics.

In his presentation Tuesday, Green said that in preparing for proposed new zoning districts, that one of the primary tasks is to preserve single-family neighborhoods that are popular with citizens and homeowners.

But other proposed changes to high-density residential zoning categories prompted questions by Birrell, of District 3 in East Cobb.

The existing residential midrise (RMR) and residential highrise (RHR) multi-family categories would be replaced by residential multifamily categories RM-24 and RM-60.

Guinn said the new categories would actually reduce the allowed density, from 33 units per acre to 24 and from 66 units per acre to 60, respectively.

“This process doesn’t change the zoning of any property in the county,” Guinn said. “They are just tools in the tool box.”

Green said the multifamily proposals will be finished next month and presented to commissioners before being made public.

The Cobb UDC website is gradually adding materials as they are completed.

She said there will be public meetings this spring on the first two installments of the UDC draft.

The third installment, which comprises the details of development standards, will follow that, with additional public meetings, before the county advertises the proposed UDC and commissioners are asked to adopt it.

“Ultimately, the document is adopted as a whole, as one big code amendment,” Guinn said. “We want to be sure that before we do that we’ve got something that the board will be comfortable adopting.”

Since the county zoning ordinance was first passed in the 1970s, she said, the UDC moving forward is likely to be in effect for a lengthy period as well.

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Walton and Pope students participate in new Habitat project

Walton, Pope students participate in new Habitat project

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On Saturday, Feb. 22, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, the Cobb County High School Coalition, and future homeowner David hammered the first nails in the first home build of the season in Austell. This is the 28th Habitat home built by the Habitat club students from Campbell, Harrison, Hillgrove, Pope, and Walton High School.

David is a single father of two sons and grew up in Smyrna, GA. He remembers learning about Habitat for Humanity as a child and riding his bike in neighborhoods where Habitat was building new homes for families. Now living in Dallas, he works as a mail handler at the U.S. Postal Service, a role he has held for nearly four years. David loves the physical, team-oriented nature of his job and spends his free time outdoors with his two sons, exploring parks and playing sports.

For David, homeownership means creating a legacy of love, safety, and opportunity for his family. He’s a dedicated father eager to provide stability and a safe space for his boys and excited to partner with Habitat to build his home from the ground up. He is grateful to the sponsors, donors, and volunteers for making this dream possible.

“To see young people give up their Saturdays for nine weeks to build a house for a family in their community is an inspiration,” says Kyle Huhtanen, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta. “We are so thankful for the longevity of this coalition and the better life they are creating for this single dad and his children.”

This year’s Habitat Club sponsors include Crystal Kidd and Abbey Christie, Campbell; Anna Eck, Harrison; Crystal Frizie, and Heather Boyle, Hillgrove; Cindy Casanova, Pope; and Jennifer McKelvey and David Dewar, Walton.

Walton, Pope students participate in new Habitat project

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Residents treated for smoke injuries in East Cobb house fire

Residents treated for smoke injuries in East Cobb house fire
Photos: Cobb Fire and Emergency Services

Two residents of a home in East Cobb that was heavily damaged in a fire Monday night are being treated for smoke-related injuries, according to Cobb Fire officials.

Lt. Stephen C. Bennett of Cobb Fire told East Cobb News in a release that the two individuals had apparently escaped after fire crews conducted a search of the home in the 1800 block of Greenfinch Court, in the Hedgerow subdivision off Mabry Road.

WSB-TV reported that a dog died in the fire.

Bennett said crews arrived at the scene around 11 p.m. and “discovered a well developed fire with heavy fire involvement of rear side of the house, extending into the attic through the eaves.”

Their work began in the basement “and it was believed that two occupants were still inside the structure so another crew initiated an aggressive search to locate them,” Bennett said.

“While searching, a report across the radio informed the incident commander that the residents walked up to an ambulance. The two adult residents were transported by ambulance for smoke-related injuries.”

Bennett said fire crews continued extinguishing the fire via the front door.

He added that the homeowner said a space heater was in use at the time and it could be the cause, but that has not been determined and the fire remains under investigation.

Bennett said Cobb Fire does not share patient information.

Residents treated for smoke injuries in East Cobb house fire

Residents treated for smoke injuries in East Cobb house fire

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Marietta Golden K Kiwanis Club presents checks to charities

Marietta Golden K Kiwanis Club presents checks to charities

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On February 20th, 2025 a special event was added to the regular meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K. It was  a most happy day as representatives from 11 sponsored programs  and sustaining charities each received a sizable check from the Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K.  

Checks totaling $16,400 were distributed. “I wish we got check like this every  Thursday,” one of the  representatives was heard to say as she was handed a check.  

The check presentation event  has turned out to be an annual affair of the club. The proceeds presented by the Kiwanians were derived  from the annual Youth Charity Golf Tournament, held last fall and the entire process is expected to be repeated next year! 

As  familiarization  for the Kiwanis Club members, the organizations set up information tables and handed out literature so everyone could become familiar with what services are provided for the children & the communities.

Everyone anticipates at least two changes for next year and those are:

  • An increase in the amount of the checks awarded
  • An increase in the number of people participating
  • When those two “increases” are achieved a very successful event will become  even more successful. 

Photo information L to R: Chris Ferguson (Path to Shine), Rev Gary MacDonald (Murphy-Harpst), Tom Gonter (MUST Ministries), Nick Carberry (Next Step Ministries), Kylie Pearce (Goshen Valley), Brenda Rhodes (Simple Needs & KCMGK member), Angela Thornton (CCYA), Donnis Steele (Mountain Top), Autumn Sines (Family Promise), Scott Ginter & Marissa Turner (Empower Cherokee. Front Center: Rosie Teague, Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K Sponsored Programs Chair.

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The Center for Family Resources announces 2025 gala

Submitted information:The Center for Family Resources announces 2025 gala

From the blue waters of the Copacabana to the vivid colors of the Selarón Steps, The Center for Family Resources (CFR) is excited to announce its annual Gala, “A Night in Rio” on May 10th, 2025, at the exquisite Cobb Galleria Centre. This event, presented by Genuine Parts Company, is more than just an elegant evening out, it is the night community comes together to “step up” to prevent homelessness for children and families in Cobb County.

The 2025 gala is co-chaired by Croy Engineering’s Chief Operating Officer Eddie Wade and Vice President Sasha Ugi. Their combined expertise and dedication will provide attendees with a colorful Rio experience, while emphasizing The CFR’s essential services and its overarching goal to keep children housed one family at a time.

“We are honored to support and assist an organization that is making a difference in the lives of children and families in Cobb County,” said the co-chairs. “The work that The CFR does in the community is an invaluable asset to us all. From working with clients to find housing to helping food insecure families at The Family Cupboard choice pantry, The CFR is changing the trajectory of lives. We, as the Gala co-chairs, are committed to making “A Night in Rio” a resounding success and to furthering the organization’s mission of creating lasting positive change in the lives of families in our community.”

Those interested in becoming corporate sponsors are encouraged to reach out to MelanieKagan@thecfr.org. Tickets for tables and individual seats are now on sale at bit.ly/4j4bXlbSupporters unable to attend the gala can still make an impact through donations of any size.

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Editor’s Note: Thanks for a fantastic February fundraiser!

Got a couple minutes?

I promise, my message to you for this last week of February won’t go longer than that!

I just wanted to thank readers for their contributions as we surpassed January’s donations totals!

We’re nearing the $800 mark, but I’d like to ask those of you who haven’t contributed to consider doing so today!

I think we can get to $1,000 in donations during these last few days of the shortest month, so please give what you can today, on a recurring monthly or annual or one-time basis.

Your donation will go a long way to help us continue to give you the local news you love!

Thanks so much!

If what you see here at East Cobb News is of any value to you, please click below to show your support.

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Cobb and Metro Atlanta news notes for Feb. 24, 2025

Cobb and Metro Atlanta News Notes for Feb. 24, 2025

Editor’s Note: We’re starting an occasional news feature that rounds up news in the county outside of East Cobb and elsewhere in metro Atlanta. Let us know what you think! —— Wendy Parker

Shooter not in custody after 2 hurt at Main Event entertainment center in Cobb—”The shooting happened at about 9 p.m. Sunday at Main Event, located at 3101 Cobb Parkway. The business, which includes a restaurant, bowling and other games, was filled with patrons, including children and young adults, according to witnesses.” [AJC]

Woman’s body discovered inside Cobb County home during welfare check—”Cobb County police said they found the body at a home on Evian Way in the Kennesaw area while conducting a welfare check. The woman’s identity has not been released. Police said they’ve detained a person of interest in the case. They said there is no danger to the public.” [Atlanta News First]

Several people injured, one seriously, in traffic incident on Dallas Highway“The 22-year-old driver of the Camry was taken by ambulance to Kennestone Hospital with serious injuries. The 35-year-old passenger, the 27-year-old passenger, and the child sustained minor injuries and were also taken to Kennestone Hospital. The driver of the Thunderbird was not injured.” [Cobb Courier]

2 passengers treated after Delta flight forced to return to Atlanta airport due to ‘haze’—”The Boeing 717, which departed Atlanta for Columbia, South Carolina, at approximately 8:30 a.m., was carrying 94 customers, two pilots, and three flight attendants. Two of those passengers were treated by EMTs and released.” [Fox 5]

Food hall opening at Braves’ Truist Park at Battery Atlanta—”Located on the right field concourse across from The Pen bullpen lounge, Outfield Market will include eight restaurant stalls with food from both new and current vendors at the ballpark. Outfield Market will feature a covered communal seating area, grab-n-go concessions, a large LED screen for watching games, and a retail shop selling Atlanta Braves gear.” [Rough Draft Atlanta]

Hundreds run 2.23 miles on Beltline five years after Ahmaud Arbery’s murder—“Typically as you move further from tragedy, it grows further from the mind, but I’m encouraged people still care and people continue to come out and show support. Ahmaud’s life still means something to people.” [AJC]

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East Cobb Biz Notes: Pure Barre open house; networking events

The Pure Barre East Cobb yoga studio (Parkaire Landing, 4880 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 790) is having an open house from Thursday-Sunday with free classes, membership deals and goods and services from other local vendors.East Cobb Biz Notes: Pure Barre open house; networking events

You can book your class by sending a direct message to the studio’s Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/purebarreeastcobb/).

ECBA Netw0rking Event

The next After Hours networking event of the East Cobb Business Association takes place on Tuesday, March 4, at the LGE Community Credit Union (Providence Square, 4101 Roswell Road, Suite 309). The cost is $10 for members and their guests and $15 for visitors. Info and registration, click here.

Women Business Connections

Every Wednesday female small business owners from the East Cobb and Roswell area are invited to meet in a mastermind group setting.

It’s called Women Business Connections, part of the East Cobb Small Business group on Facebook. The meetings are from 10-11 a.m. at RISE Coffee and Tea (4651 Sandy Plains Road, Suite 116).

Coffee and Conversations

Submitted information:

Connect with local small businesses at Coffee and Conversations 7:30 – 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the Cobb County Civic Center, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta. The event is designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs to foster networking and learning. You’ll hear valuable information about the Cobb County Entrepreneurship Grant and success stories from previous grant recipients.

To RSVP, call 770-528-2018 or email econdev@cobbcounty.orgFind more information online here.

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Atlanta Country Club to host Cobb Library Foundation gala

Submitted information:Atlanta Country Club to host Cobb Library Foundation gala

Join the Cobb Library Foundation for a magical evening with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen at our “Booked for the Evening” gala on April 25th or give directly to the heart of our libraries during our “Love Your Library” fundraiser by donating online or in person.

Can’t attend? Make a donation and help us continue our mission to help our Cobb County Public Libraries be the best in the State! This year we have funded the Summer Reading Program, the North Cobb Regional Library Garden, purchased a new ScanPro for the Georgia Room, OBIE Projector that will be circulated throughout the Library System, an Illumination Station for the Vinings Library, and so much more! Thank you for your participation and support!

Purchase your tickets now at: CLF2025Gala.GiveSmart.com.

Every contribution, big or small, helps us provide vital resources and programs for everyone in Cobb County.

 

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East Cobb weather update: Spring-like warmth to end February

The last week of February will feel like spring in the East Cobb area, with sunny skies most days and high temperatures reaching 70 degrees.

Temperatures are going back into the 60s on Monday and Tuesday, with Wednesday’s high forecast to be sunny and near 70, according to the National Weather Service 7-day forecast.

Some rain may move into the area—there’s a 50 percent chance of showers—on Thursday, but that window won’t stay open for long.

Friday and the weekend are expected to be warm and sunny, with highs in the 60s.

Low temperatures this week also won’t be as cold as they have been, generally ranging in the 40s at night.

The week’s weather also will have low winds and clear visibility, and these conditions will continue into early next week.

For more local weather details, click here.

 

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Feb. 10-14, 2025

Blackland Ridge, East Cobb real estate sales
Blackland Ridge

The following East Cobb residential real estate sales were compiled from agency reports and Cobb County property records.

They include the street address, subdivision name and sales price listed under their respective high school attendance zones:

Kell

2028 Eula Drive, 30066 (The Estates on Eula): $734,800

4249 Meadow Way, 30066 (Northwind Meadows): $420,000

Lassiter

4322 Stonehaven Trace, 30075 (Loch Highland): $452,600

3680 Edenbourgh Place, 30066 (Highland Park): $695,000

4404 Brandon Court, 30066 (Shannon Gate): $365,000

2426 Woodbridge Drive, 30066 (Cambridge Forest): $610,000

Pope

2556 Lulworth Lane, 30062 (Mabry Manor): $1.2 million

Sprayberry

1983 Kinridge Road, 30062 (Piedmont Bend): $380,000

2301 Piedmont Forest Drive, 30062 (Piedmont Forest): $521,000

809 Shadybrook Drive, 30066 (Shady Brook): $305,000

944 Liberty Hill Road, 30066: $315,000

2829 Cobb Place Manor Court, 30066 (Cobb Place Manor): $465,000

290 Vistawood Drive, 30066 (Piedmont Hills): $450,000

3281 Allegheny Drive, 30066 (North Chestnut Grove): $600,000

2297 Carousel Court, 30066 (Vandiver): $445,000

1171 Catalina Court, 30066 (Lakewood Estates): $438,000

Walton

1203 Bridle Path, 30068 (Mulberry Farms): $409,000

4275 Blackland Drive, 30067 (Blackland Ridge): $630,000

4345 Blackland Way, 30067 (Blackland Ridge): $923,000

4083 Audubon Drive, 30068 (Pincrest): $480,000

4079 River Cliff Chase, 30067 (Rivermill): $840,000

60 Old Fuller Mill Road, 30067 (Sturbridge Heights): $1.15 million

Wheeler

581 Meadowbrook Drive, 30067 (Meadowbrook): $278,000

280 East Valley Drive, 30068 (East Valley Estates): $420,000

757 Smithstone Road, 30067 (Dogwood Park): $485,000

71 Cecil Drive, 30068 (Kathleen Place): $375,000

3520 Ridge View Court, 30068 (Cross Gate): $445,000

Related:

 

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Editor’s Note: The stretch run of our February fundraiser

We’re almost there!Editor's Note: Inviting our readers to join the 1500 Club!

Not just near the end of another month, but also close to surpassing our fundraising drive goal for February.

With just about a week left, we’re around $150 short of January’s totals, and in the shortest month of the year!

What we’d like to do during this stretch run of February is not only eclipse that $750 mark, but get to $1,000 for the month in reader donations.

We’ve been asking readers to donate as little as $6 a month—it can be more if you like or any amount you choose—as we strive to add 1,500 new recurring contributors through the spring.

That’s a big goal, to be sure, but East Cobb News was born on big dreams—to serve you, our readers, with professionally reported news and useful community information—that serves you and our advertisers.

We rely on multiple sources of revenue to keep giving you local news that you love, and we’d love to have your support if you haven’t donated yet.

After several years of diligently building not just an engaged audience, but cultivating dynamic relationships with so many of you, we’re asking for your support today to help sustain this community resource.

If what you see here at East Cobb News is of any value to you, please click below to show your support.

Please donate today!

Your contribution powers the work of East Cobb News in serving this community like no one else—with daily stories about local government, schools, public safety, small business, transportation, the arts, community service and more—and grows an engaged audience as a result.

East Cobb News is among dozens of local independent online news sites that have emerged in recent years to offer grassroots news for their communities with an authentic local touch from publishers who are fully invested in everything that goes on there.

We’re also citizens, parents, homeowners, business owners and volunteers like our neighbors. It’s just not where we work, but the place we call home.

At Eastsider LA, publisher Jesus Sanchez personally thanks his readers who contribute, because he knows they also are the sources of news tips, engagement ideas and suggestions for how to make his publication better.

Indeed, we’ve gotten advertising interest and business at East Cobb News because of the stories we publish—we’re truly hyperlocal, and many small businesses here find that to be an ideal way to reach new customers.

So thank you to recent contributors Barbara, Walter, Trevor, Eric, Arlys, Karen, Kristie, Amy, Michael and so many others for your support of East Cobb News.

With donations from just a few more of you, we can get to $1,000 this month.

Unlike other corporate-0wned outlets, East Cobb News does not charge for reader access. While we’re a for-profit entity, we’re not unlike those who ask readers for their assistance in not just preserving, but strengthening local news.

We’d like to suggest a monthly payment of $6—you can contribute more if you like, or at whatever amount of your choosing.

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