Wendy Parker

Editor/publisher, East Cobb News, hyperlocal site serving the East Cobb community of metro Atlanta with 24/7 news, events and information.

Cobb Commission seat declared vacant; Richardson to appeal

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After three of her colleagues voted to declare her seat vacant on Tuesday, Cobb Commissioner Jerica Richardson said she would appeal the decision to Cobb Superior Court.

In an expected move, commissioners voted to declare District 2 vacant due to county residency rules, after adopting electoral maps in August that were passed by the Georgia legislature that drew Richardson out of her seat.

It was a re-do of a vote that ended in a 2-2 deadlock last week; Richardson recused herself from both votes.

The declaration means that the county is giving Richardson a 10-day notice of a vacancy (you can read it here). Richardson will continue to serve as a commissioner during the appeals process.

If she prevails, she will be allowed to keep her seat until her term expires on Dec. 31. If she loses, an interim commissioner who resides within the legally approved District 2 boundaries would be appointed to finish the term, or possibly longer, depending on a special election in 2025 to elect her successor.

On Tuesday, Richardson, the board’s vice chair this year, presided over the meeting with Chairwoman Lisa Cupid absent as she was with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce on its annual visit to Washington.

“I trust that we can find a way to consider the real legal questions that are at hand,” Richardson said near the end of the meeting, reading from prepared remarks (you can watch the video below at the 2:17:45 mark), calling the result of Tuesday’s vote “a forced vacancy.”

“Setting the precedent that any elected official could possibly be removed at any time is dangerous and now we are watching the process happen before our very eyes.”

Commissioners voted at their last meeting to adopt the state maps after the “home rule” maps the Democratic majority adopted in 2022 were ruled a violation of the Georgia Constitution by Cobb Superior Court Judge Kellie Hill.

The state maps placed most of East Cobb in District 3, represented by Republican JoAnn Birrell. The “home rule” maps would have kept some of East Cobb, including Richardson’s home off Post Oak Tritt Road, in District 2, similar to lines in which she was elected in 2020.

The Democrats used a novel legal theory of declaring home rule powers in challenging the state maps, but the Georgia Constitution specifically authorizes the legislature to conduct county reapportionment.

The legislature did not consider maps drawn by former Cobb delegation chairman Erick Allen that would have kept Richardson in her seat; instead it passed maps sponsored by Cobb Republican lawmakers, breaking with a long-standing courtesy with local lawmakers.

Hill also vacated May primaries in District 2 and District 4 under which the “home rule” maps were used; those special elections will take place in early 2025.

Disrict 2 now encompasses along I-75 and includes most of the Smyrna/Cumberland area, pushing as east as the western side of Powers Ferry Road, close to where Richardson formerly resided.

Last month, Birrell voted against a declaration of a vacancy, saying she didn’t think what happened to Richardson was fair and wanted her to complete her term.

But she said she changed her mind because under the state map, Richardson no longer lives in her district. For the last two years, Birrell said she’s “entered a statement that I will uphold the Constitution and follow the law.”

(The brief discussion begins at the 1:52:20 mark of the video below.)

“I thought I was doing the right thing by trying to keep her in office but I have to follow the law.”

Democratic commissioner Monique Sheffield said “this is the next step in the process.”

During her remarks, Richardson reflected on her one term in office—she didn’t seek re-election amid the map dispute—to emphasize her commitment to constituents she said have been harmed along the way.

“Knowing the consequences of today—voter nullification, forced vacancies, missing representation and long-term precendence—I will work to make sure my community receives the answers they deserve and that you are not forgotten.”

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Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance to hold Adopt-a-Mile cleanup

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Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance to hold Adopt-a-Mile Event

Submitted information and photo:

Seeking community volunteers for the Adopt-A-Mile Fall event from 9-10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5 along Powers Ferry at Terrell Mill Road. Meet up and enjoy complimentary refreshments at 8:30 a.m. at the Kroger Fuel parking lot, 1310 Powers Ferry Rd., Marietta, GA 30067.

Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance is pleased to host this bi-annual event, in conjunction with Keep Cobb Beautiful, and supported by Kroger and Take 5 Oil Change. All supplies and safety equipment will be provided. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

Keep Cobb Beautiful’s Adopt-A-Mile program is a partnership that allows individuals and/or groups to improve the appearance of our community. In the event of inclement weather, an email will go out the night before to all registered participants. 

Sign up by clicking here. Email: volunteer@powersferryca.com Learn more: powersferryca.com.

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Cobb Fall Break camps at Fullers Rec Center, The Art Place

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Cobb PARKS is offering two fall break camps in the East Cobb area from M0nday, Sept. 23 through Friday, Sept 27 at the following locations:The Art Place
Fullers Recreation Center Fall Break Camp:
Monday – Friday, Sept. 23 – 27, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
for ages 6 – 12 (Activity Code #41678).

The Art Place Fall Break Mixed Media Art Camp:
Monday – Friday, Sept 23 – 27, 1 – 4 p.m.
for ages 8 – 11 (Activity code #38756).The cost for each camp is $125 per child (Cobb residents) and $187 for non-residents.

Register for arts and rec camps here.

Find more activities in the PARK Fall 2024 Activity Guide.

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NE Cobb restaurant owner withdraws liquor store appeal

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NE Cobb restaurant owner withdraws liquor store appeal

Following up last week’s story about the possible conversion of the Bay Breeze seafood restaurant on Canton Road into a liquor store:

The applicant has withdrawn his request to appeal two denials of a retail liquor permit.

During a Cobb Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Parks Huff, an attorney for restaurant owner Steve Constantinou, said his client wished to withdraw with prejudice.

That means that the case cannot come back up again. Huff did not explain why his client is withdrawing.

Commissioners were scheduled to hear the appeal on Tuesday, which followed months of attempts to get a liquor permit and after substantial community opposition.

The he Cobb Business License Division Manager and agency’s review board both turned down the application by BSC Packing LLC to operate a liquor store at the Bay Breeze site at 2418 Canton Road.

The 10,000–square-foot building is 177 feet from a residential property line. The county code allows denial of an alcoholic beverage license if a location is within 300 feet.

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Catholics4Habitat raise walls on 50th home in Cobb County

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Submitted information and photos:

On Saturday, the Catholics4Habitat raised the first walls on their 50th Habitat home in the City of Austell. Kevin Reilly serves as Coalition Chairman and says the Coalition is incredibly proud to reach this landmark. “This group of Catholic churches has remained together to faithfully raise the money and build a Habitat home every year, he says. “We are proud to live out our faith through building affordable homes for deserving families.”

Life will soon be improved for future homeowner, Emmanuel and his four-year-old daughter, who currently live in a one-bedroom apartment in Mableton. Emmanuel has been working as a Lyft driver for six years and desires to own a home with more space for them in a safe neighborhood. When asked what he would like to say to the sponsors and volunteers that make homeownership possible for families like his, Emmanuel said, “God bless you for improving the lives of individuals, families, communities, and the needy by providing affordable homes.” ​<

The churches represented in the Coalition include: Holy Family Catholic Church, Catholic Church of St. Ann, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, St. Joseph Catholic Church and Catholic Church of the Transfiguration. Long time Coalition leader Jim Nee will be serving as house lead.

“This amazing coalition is our longest running coalition and I could not be prouder to see them reach this important milestone,” says Jessica Gill of the Northwest Metro Atlanta Habitat for Humanity. “Fifty families have achieved financial stability and provided a decent home for the next generation because of their dedication.”

Catholics4Habitat raise walls on 50th home in Cobb County
NW Metro Atlanta Habitat director Jessica Gill and Catholics4Habitat coordinator Kevin Reilly.

All Cobb fire stations to commemorate Sept. 11 anniversary

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All Cobb fire stations to commemorate Sept. 11 anniversary

Wednesday is the 23rd anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11, and the Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services Department will be holding simultaneous commemorations to match the exact timetable of the events at the World Trade Center in New York.

That’s where commercial airliners struck both towers after being hijacked by terrorists. After firefighters and other first responders climbed up the more than 100-story buildings, they collapsed.

The Fire Department of New York estimates that 343 firefighters and paramedics died as a result, as well as 60 police officers from various departments. A total of 2,753 people were killed in the Twin Tower attacks, according to The Encyclopedia of 9/11.

Cobb government said in a release Monday that at the fire stations, sirens will sound for one minute at 10:05 a.m. and 10:28 a.m. to mark the collapse of each tower, followed by church bells. Here’s the full schedule:

  • 8:46 a.m. Moment of silence for American Airlines Flight 11 crash victims.
  • 9:03 a.m. Moment of silence for United Airlines Flight 175 crash victims.
  • 9:37 a.m. Moment of silence for American Airlines Flight 77 crash victims.
  • 10:03 a.m. Moment of silence for United Airlines Flight 93 crash victims.
  • 10:05 a.m. Sirens sound for one minute; church bells ring.
  • 10:06 a.m. Lower station flag to half-mast.
  • 10:28 a.m. Sirens sound for one minute; church bells ring.

There are eight fire stations in the East Cobb area, and you can find all locations by clicking here.

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Cobb Elections Board meeting stopped after ‘Heil Hitler’ outburst

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Cobb elections board meeting adjourns after 'Heil Hitler' outburst

The Cobb Board of Elections meeting on Monday was adjourned prematurely after someone in the audience shouted “Heil Hitler” during a public comment period.

The board had just heard a comment from citizen Hugh Norris, who was critical of an elections board member who does not stand for the Pledge of Allegiance at board meetings.

His comments were directed at board member Jennifer Mosbacher of East Cobb, whom Norris called a “closeted Communist” who wasn’t demonstrating proper loyalty to her duties and who should be replaced.

After he was finished, some applause broke out, followed by the “Heil Hitler” remark.

Mosbacher, who is Jewish, immediately began waving her arms in protest.

“Who said that?” she said.

“That is extremely unacceptable,” board chairwoman Tori Silas said. “It’s completely out of order.”

Board attorney Daniel White said that commenters can speak out what they like, even if it’s “ugly,” but they can’t proceed in a way that disrupts the flow of the meeting. He thought that comment fit the latter description, since it amounted to hate speech.

“We’re going to calm it down, and let people have a chance to take a pause, don’t make it personal, people can say what they want and we’ll move forward,” he said.

But Mosbacher said that “anti-Semitic rhetoric, not acceptable. I’m won’t continue to sit in this seat if that person is in this room.”

Silas agreed, and said it is not “a matter of what can happen, it is a matter of what will not happen. . . . We can just stop this meeting.”

White looked at the audience and asked whomever the commenter was to leave the room.

When no one did, Silas said, “So you’re going to hide behind the statement?”

Elections board member Stacy Efrat, also of East Cobb, said “we cannot allow this person to stay in this room. It is hate speech and it is unacceptable.

“We can all disagree with each other’s political views, but we cannot allow hate speech.”

As county staff tried to locate commenter, Mosbacher made a reference to Leo Frank, a Jew who was lynched in Marietta in 1915.

Board member Debbie Fisher of East Cobb said it should be “standard duty” for the board not to engage with the audience. “I just think we may be adding a little fuel to the fire.”

Silas replied that “unfortunately, we are in uncharted territory with that type of hate speech being hurled at this board.”

When the “Heil Hitler” commenter could not be located, the board voted 4-0-1 to adjourn, with Fisher abstaining.

It was unclear when the elections board, which holds monthly regular meetings, would resume this one.

You can watch the sequence at the 1:02-hour mark in the video below.

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Matt Hobby Classic raises $29K for childhood cancer research

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Update: Matt Hobby Classic raises $29K for Rally Foundation

We got a lot of interest in last week’s post about the Matt Hobby Classic, the Pope High School football fundraiser to honor a late Greyhounds player and benefit pediatric cancer research.

Volunteer Jennifer Dunaway tells us that more than $29,000 was raised from sales from the special T-shirt (a new one is designed each year) for the Rally Foundation.

The check shows $23K, but she said an additional $6 was raised after that. Since the Matt Hobby Classic began, more than $400,000 has been raised for the Rally Foundation.

The co-chairs for the event this year are Rylee Johnson and Lisa Aldridge.

And to top off the evening, the Pope football team defeated Sprayberry to run its record this season to 2-2.

Update: Matt Hobby Classic raises $29K for Rally Foundation

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East Cobb weather outlook: Some rain, followed by a parade

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East Cobb weather outlook: Some rain, followed by a parade

It’s feeling a bit more like fall these days, with lower temps and dropping humidity continuing, ideal for hanging out at the park, as above, or just getting out in general.

The East Cobb area also will be getting some rain toward the end of the week.

Sunny skies and high temperatures in the mid-80s are in the forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City.

On Thursday, there’s a 40 percent chance of rain, with highs in the mid-70s, and by Thursday night the chance of rain is expected to be 80 percent, with lows in the mid-60s.

Friday’s forecast has more rain projected, with a 70 percent chance, and highs also in the mid-70s.

Saturday morning is the EAST COBBER parade, and the rain is expected to hold off during that time.

But there’s a 30 percent chance of rain Saturday afternoon, and the same is forecast on Sunday and Monday.

Highs will return back to the low-80s by then and into next week, with lows in the mid-60s.

 

 

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Cobb school board candidate forums set in contested races

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The League of Women Voters of Marietta-Cobb has invited candidates in three contested Cobb Board of Education general election races to a forum.Cobb school board candidate forums set in contested races

The forums for posts 1, 5 and 7 are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1 from 6-8 p.m. at the Switzer Library (266 Roswell Street, Marietta) and also will be livestreamed on YouTube.

The moderator is Chesley McNeil of 11Alive.

The three races are Post 1 in North Cobb, Post 5 in East Cobb and Post 7 in West Cobb. Republicans hold all three seats, and there are Democrats entered in each one.

The Post 5 seat, which includes the Walton, Pope and some of the Wheeler attendance zones, is open. Four-term Republican David Banks is retiring, and his successor will be one of two newcomers.

GOP hopeful John Cristadoro and Democrat Laura Judge, parents in he Walton area, both announced their candidacies more than a year ago.

Post 1 Republican incumbent Randy Scamihorn is facing Democrat Vickie Benson in a rematch from the 2020 election, and in Post 7, two-term GOP member Brad Wheeler is being opposed by Democrat Andrew Cole, a first-time candidate.

The term in Post 3 in South Cobb also expires at the end of the year, but first-term Democrat Tre’ Hutchins did not draw any opposition in either party.

School board races this year have drawn increased attention. Republicans hold a 4-3 edge, and partisan squabbling has been a regular feature at meetings in recent years. Democrats hold the majority on the Cobb Board of Commissioners and the county’s legislative delegation in what had been a GOP stronghold.

The Post 5 and 7 races were close four years ago, as Banks and Wheeler were narrowly re-elected.

But the Post 5 lines have been changed since then due to reapportionment, to include most areas south of Sandy Plains and Shallowford Road and north of Lower Roswell Road.

(The school board post boundaries, which are drawn by the Georgia legislature, are not the same has school attendance zones, which are drawn administratively by the Cobb County School District).

The forum, which is free and open to the public, includes partnerships with Cobb Collaborative Vote Your Voice, Cobb Democracy Center, Marietta-Roswell Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Mi Familia en Acción, and redefinED Atlanta.

To register for in-person or virtual attendance click here; you can find the Spanish-language version by clicking here.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: 50th anniversary for Frameworks Gallery

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Frameworks Gallery 50th anniversary
Diane Spencer, co-founder of Frameworks Gallery, which is marking its 50th anniversary.

Thursday will be a special day at Frameworks Gallery.

The East Cobb art gallery and frame shop is marking the start of its 50th anniversary in business with a new exhibition, “Symphony of Colors,” that will run through Oct. 18.

The opening reception on Thursday lasts from 6-8 p.m. (1205 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 110).

The special show features the work of four artists who’ve had their work displayed at Frameworks in the pas: Pat Fiorello, Marsha Savage, Barbara Royal, and Judie Jacobs.

Founded by sisters Diane Spencer and the late Sunny Walker, Frameworks Gallery is a fixture not just in the local art and business scene, but also the larger civic community.

In April we spoke to Spencer about her initiative to raise funds for a special garden at East Cobb Park to honor Walker, a leading figure in the creation of the park.

What’s to be called “Sunny’s Butterfly Garden” is getting underway under the auspices of the East Cobb Garden Club, part of the all-volunteer Friends for the East Cobb Park.

Frameworks has been in East Cobb all along, and moved into its present space  in the Woodlawn Square Shopping Center 20 years ago.

Walker passed away in 2019, and Spencer has kept the business in the family, with her son running the framing operation.

The artists featured in “Symphony of Colors” have distinguished backgrounds in the local arts scene.

Fiorello’s work was selected as Best Floral in the April 2023 PleinAir Salon competition sponsored by PleinAir Magazine, and she’s the author of a book, “Bella Italia, Italy Through the Eyes of an Artist.”

Savage has been an artist for more than 50 years, specializing in landscape painting. Her work has been displayed at the Georgia State Capitol and she has been entered in many local and regional art shows.

Royal paints landscapes and abstract works, and is a member of the High Museum of Art of Atlanta.

A member of the metro Atlanta artist community for more than 40 years, Jacob is a painter, ceramic sculptor and mixed media specialist.

Parading around

Saturday’s EAST COBBER parade and festival (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) includes some local businesses. Here’s a partial list of who you’ll see stepping down Johnson Ferry Road and/or having booths at the festival afterwards at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church:

  • Aqua-Tots East Cobb; Auto Accident Attorneys; Custom Disposal; Dance Stop Company; Just Fences Inc.; My Best Friend’s Vet; Neighborhood Tire Pros & Auto Service; Prime IV Hydration & Wellness; Sparkles Family Fun Center; Stretch Zone East Cobb; Ted’s Montana Grill; Willow Orthodontics.

The chief sponsor for the second year in a row is CertaPro Painters.

Festival x 2

Saturday’s going to be extra busy for The Auto Accident Attorneys Group. In addition to being a sponsor of the EAST COBBER event, AAA is holding its third annual Fall Kickoff Festival from 12-3 Saturday at its offices (1454 Johnson Ferry Road).

Admission is free, and the event features a live band, face painting, a petting zoo, bounce houses, shaved ice and food vendors. The sponsor is Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy.

Managing partner Jamie Salimi said it’s a community give-back event. Food and drinks are complimentary with a wristband while supplies last, and you’re asked to register online.

Business bootcamp

The Cobb County Business Bootcamp has launched, designed to help minority-owned small business owners.

Started by former East Cobb Business Association president Brian Kramer and other experienced local business leaders, the CCBB provides free start-up assistance to qualified applicants, with a focus on sales, marketing, operations, finance/legal, human resources and entrepreneurial evolution.

On Tuesday there will be a free workshop to go over the bootcamp program details to those interested.

It’s from 5-7 at the North Cobb Regional Library (3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw) and is free to attend. You’re asked to RSVP in advance at https://bit.ly/CCBBIdeaWorkshop9102024.

Since officially opening in March, CCBB has accepted more than 100 business owners as member participants. The goal is to have more than 300 owners on board by the end of the year.

Selected participants will have their scholarships paid for with funding from an American Recovery Program Act small- and minority-owned business grant through Cobb County government.

According to the CCBB website, “this membership covers all aspects of the program such as our online courses, peer-to-peer roundtables, access to our live events and the done-with-you services provided by our partners.”

“We want any minority small business owner in Cobb County to know we’re open, our services are free, and we are eager to help them succeed,” Kramer said in a release.

“One of our key differentiators is that CCBB is set up to help many types of businesses, from mom-and-pop startups in a home office or kitchen to retail businesses or franchises across the community.”

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Aug. 19-23, 2024

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Kings Farm, East Cobb real estate sales
Kings Farm

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

4771 Lee Waters Road, 30066 (Waters Ridge): $400,000

4050 Meadow Way, 30066 (Northwind Meadows): $450,000

5047 Ravenwood Drive, 30066 (Ravenwood): $450,000

Lassiter

3317 Cranmore Chase, 30066 (Northampton): $1 million

4560 Windsor Oaks Court, 30066 (Windsor Oaks): $779,000

4841 Wigley Road, 30066 (Edgewood East): $1.225 million

3884 Running Fox Drive, 30062 (Raintree Forest): $608,000

3033 Oaktree Landing, 30066 (Windsor Oaks): $820,000

4499 Windsor Oaks Circle, 30066 (Windsor Oaks): $675,000

3950 Hazelhurst Lake Drive, 30066 (Lakeside at Hazlehurst Ridge): $1.3 million

2413 Tall Timbers Trail, 30066 (Avonshire): $590,000

2684 Forest Way, 30066 (Forest Chase): $360,000

Pope

2311 Arabian Drive, 30062 (Kings Farm): $1.26 million

3137 Skyridge Court, 30062 (Johnsons Crossing): $407,000

1915 Annwicks Drive, 30062 (Wicks Lake): $400,000

2630 Shadow Woods Circle, 30062 (Shadowwoods): $770,000

3251 Ethan Drive, 30062 (Hembree Hills): $640,000

Sprayberry

2181 Whitehall Drive, 30066 (Churchill Village): $467,500

2405 Broward Drive, 30066 (Morgan Station): $455,000

2903 Carrollton Court, 30066 (Piedmont Hills): $460,000

3141 Big Shanty Trail, 30066 (Big Shany Plantation): $390,000

1803 Donald Drive, 30062 (Hasty Meadows): $465,000

925 Ballew Drive, 30062 (Glendale): $600,000

1751 Wilkenson Court, 30066 (St. Charles Square): $530,000

1102 Lawanna Drive, 30062 (Parkside East): $450,000

2035 Mozelle Drive, 30062: $350,000

Walton

4359 Kings Way, 30067 (Kings Cove): $930,000

2179 Heritage Trace Drive, 30062 (Heritage Trace): $517,220

3895 High Green Place, 30068 (Indian Hills): $865,000

1823 Shelburne Ridge, 30068 (Shelburne): $875,000

Wheeler

412 Somerset Lane, 30067 (Somerset): $939,000

717 Princeton Mill Run (Princeton Mill): $672,000

2608 Cotton Mill Court, 30068 (Princeton Mill): $656,900

3759 Waterlilly Way, 30067 (Giverny Park): $1.2 million

391 Huntsman Way, 30067 (Fox Hills): $725,000

2414 Cedar Wood Court, 30068 (Cedar Cove): $495,000

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Johnson Ferry North trail entrance closing temporarily

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Johnson Ferry North trail entrance closing temporarily

The entrance to the Johnson Ferry North trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area will close for about a month starting on Monday due to the construction of a culvert.

The National Park Service said in a social media posting Friday that there will be heavy machinery and cranes in the area and that there “will be no access to the trails at JFN from this entrance while this work is being done.”

The entrance is located at 301 Johnson Ferry Road, just north of the Chattahoochee River, and across from the entrance to Columns Drive (see blue star on map above).

The parking lot for the trails and a nearby boat ramp will remain open, and hikers can access the Johnson Ferry North trails via Hyde Farm.

Completion of the culvert work is expected to be finished by Oct. 9, according to the NPS, which has posted signs at the entrance explaining the closure.

The Johnson Ferry North portion of the Chattahoochee NRA has nine separate trails that stretch north along the river to Mulberry Creek, and connects with the Gold Branch Unit that’s located off Lower Roswell Road to the north and the Johnson Ferry South trails along Columns Drive.

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Cobb Make-A-Wish 5K returns in October after 5-year hiatus

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Submitted information:Cobb Make-A-Wish 5K returns in October after 5-year hiatus

After a five-year hiatus, the Make-A-Wish Georgia 5K is back, promising a fun-filled, family-friendly event on Oct. 5that supports granting wishes for critically ill children in Cobb County.

Currently, 15 critically ill children in Cobb are waiting for their wishes, which range from travel experiences and medical equipment to meeting celebrities.

“We are thrilled to partner with Cobb County once again with the return of the Make-A-Wish Georgia 5K,” said Tim Earley, CEO of Make-A-Wish Georgia. “This event not only helps fund life-changing wishes but also brings our community together in a fun and meaningful way.”

This year’s race will feature a shirt design by Sneha Shastri, the winner of the road race design contest. Participants can choose from seven different sponsor levels, as well as options for individual and team entries in both timed and untimed categories. The Make-A-Wish 5K is also a qualifying event for the Peachtree Road Race.

The race will start and finish at the Marietta Square, offering runners and walkers the chance to experience the scenic beauty of historic Marietta.

Participants can join for a memorable day of fun and fitness, and help make wishes come true for children in Cobb County.

https://www.cobbcounty.org/public-safety/make-wish-5k

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East Cobb Food Scores: Kale Me Crazy; Brazilian Bakery; more

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East Cobb food scores, Kale Me Crazy Avenue East Cobb

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

Brazilian Bakery
1260 Powers Ferry Road, Suite A
September 5, 2024 Score: 87, Grade: B

Euro Atlanta
1265 Powers Ferry Road
September 6, 2024 Score: 69, Grade: U

Kale Me Crazy
4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1620
September 6, 2024 Score: 96, Grade: A

Pizza Hut
2520 East Piedmont Road, Suite 124
September 6, 2024 Score: 92, Grade: A

Shadowood Cafe
2110 Powers Ferry Road, Suite 120
September 6, 2024 Score: 97, Grade: A

Three Dollar Cafe
3000 Windy Hill Road, Suite 132
September 4, 2024 Score: 91, Grade: A

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Bay Breeze Restaurant owner appeals liquor store denial

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The owner of the Bay Breeze seafood restaurant in Northeast Cobb wants to operate a liquor store at that location.

But after the Cobb Business License Division Manager and the agency’s review board denied that request earlier this year, the matter will be going to the Cobb Board of Commissioners next week.

An agenda item for Tuesday’s meeting indicates that there will be a public hearing after Bay Breeze appealed the denials, which were issued due to distance requirements to nearby homeowners.

More than a dozen citizens also sent e-mails to the Cobb Business License office opposing a liquor store.

Documents filed for Tuesday’s meeting indicate that the building at 2418 Canton Road is 177 feet from a residential property line. The county code allows denial of an alcoholic beverage license if a location is within 300 feet.

Some businesses, especially restaurants, often appeal those decisions to get waivers that are typically approved on a routine basis.

But retail liquor stores can be a different matter.

BSC Packing LLC and owner Steve Constantinou said in the appeal that it is seeking a license to operate a daily package store at the current Bay Breeze site, which is just under 10,000 square feet.

The building sits in front of the Chimney Cottage neighborhoood, where much of the opposition has come from.

In July, the license review board upheld the initial denial for an alcohol license. BSC Packing has retained attorney Parks Huff of the Sams Larkin Huff law firm to represent it at Tuesday’s hearing, which is conducted like a court proceeding.

But opposition to a liquor store has been brewing for months.

Agenda item documents include e-mails from last November to the business license agency from nearby residents, who said there are other liquor stores in the area and another such business would be detrimental to the community.

They include Carol Brown of Canton Road Neighbors, a civic association, who said that there are safety concerns because of more frequent vehicular traffic stemming from a liquor store.

She noted that the Bay Breeze property was zoned neighborhood retail commercial (NRC) in 2007 “and therefore may escape close scrutiny” for the final plans,

Another resident counted seven package stores and 11 gas stations selling alcohol in a two-mile radius. Bay Breeze is located on Canton Road just below a busy intersection with Piedmont Road.

A Chimney Cottage resident wrote to the license review board that a liquor store “would attract an undesirable element and detract from an otherwise wholesome family environment. With everything going on in today’s society, this is just not something I want to worry about.”

East Cobb News has left a message with Huff seeking comment.

In its notice of appeal, BSC Packing said the store would start with three employees who would be trained on proper alcohol sales policy and would be subject to termination for sales to minors.

The applicant also said that a video recording, storage and retrieval system would be established that is “commensurate with the size and layout of the store and parking lot after converting from a restaurant.”

In 2022, Cobb commissioners voted to uphold a license review board decision to grant a liquor license for a new bottle shop on Johnson Ferry Road despite fervent community opposition.

Huff was hired by the new store’s owners after residents and another liquor retailer opposed the new business, but the vote to approve was 4-1.

The commission meeting begins at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the second floor board room of the Cobb government building (100 Cherokee St., downtown Marietta).

The full agenda can be found by clicking here.

You also can watch on the county’s website and YouTube channels and on Cobb TV 23 on Comcast Cable.

 

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Mountain View Regional Library to hold transit tax open house

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The Cobb Department of Transportation has announced the first public information meetings for the Cobb Mobility SPLOST, the proposed 30-year transit tax that’s up for a referendum vote in November.Mountain View Regional Library to hold transit tax open house

What it’s calling “MSPLOST talks” will take place at four Cobb library branches on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 5-7 p.m.

The locations include the Mountain View Regional Library (3320 Sandy Plains Road).

Cobb DOT said the meetings are open houses and will have no formal presentations. Other locations will be at the Smyrna, North Cobb and Stratton library branches at the same time.

“Drop in to learn about the proposed initiatives, ask questions, and share your thoughts on how MSPLOST funds will be utilized to benefit our community,” Cobb DOT said Thursday in a social media posting.

Under state law, government agencies cannot advocate a position on a referendum vote.

But Cobb commissioners have approved a $287,000 contract with Kimley-Horn, an Atlanta consulting firm, to provide what’s called “educational” information and resources about the proposed tax, including holding public meetings.

Last week, Cobb DOT unveiled its MSPLOST website and is expected to hold further public meetings to be announced.

The tax, if approved by voters in the Nov. 5 general election, would collect one percent of sales tax to fund expanded bus services, transfer stations and related services and facilities, for a total of $11 billion.

Currently Cobb consumers pay six cents’ worth of sales taxes, including SPLOSTs (Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax) for Cobb government and schools.

Among the projects that would be funded with the transit tax is the construction of a bus transfer station in the Roswell-Johnson Ferry Road area and the restoration of two bus routes through East Cobb that were eliminated during recession budget cuts.

A group leading opposition to the tax, the Cobb Taxpayers Association, has scheduled its campaign kickoff event in East Cobb on Sept. 14.

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‘Final Audition’ comedy begins this weekend at The Art Place

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3rd Act Productions, an Alpharetta-based community theatre organization, is staging “Final Audition, Last Chance for the Role of a Lifetime,” a comedy that opens Friday at 8 p.m. at The Art Place Theatre (3330 Sandy Plains Road).'Final Audition' comedy debuts this weekend at The Art Place

According to promotional information, “this is a heartfelt and hilarious play about pursuing a dream.”

The comedy is set in 1993 in Chicago, and opens with the “voice of legendary Chicago TV & radio host, Bob Sirott, informing all about the big news of the year while playing the greatest hits of 1993, one of the best musical years of the 90s.

“FINAL AUDITION centers on the story of Sally Cochrane, whom after 30 years of heartache and struggle trying to make it as an actress in Chicago, is ready to give up on her dream and go back to Normal (Illinois). But when she learns that famous director, Nick Michaels, is returning to his hometown to cast his next Broadway play with Chicago actors, Sally is torn between doing one final audition or just going back to Normal.”

The play will run in 10 performances from Sept. 6 through Sept. 14. For more information and tickets visit Finalaudition.net.

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EAST COBBER magazine to stage 26th parade and festival

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East Cobb's parade returns

The 26th annual EAST COBBER Magazine parade and festival returns on Saturday, Sept. 14.

As in the past, the parade starts at 10 a.m. at Mt. Bethel Elementary School, then marches down Johnson Ferry Road to Olde Towne Parkway.

The event’s community festival takes place at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church (955 Johnson Ferry Road) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Laren Brown, the magazine’s owner, said that more than 60 local groups are expected, totaling 3,000 participants, with an audience expected of more than 10,000 attendees.

The participants include scout troops, marching bands, local businesses and civic organizations and more.

A special feature is the VIP treatment for teacher of the year honorees at local schools. “We know many families move to East Cobb for the excellent schools, and this is a unique way to celebrate and recognize our outstanding educators,” Brown said.

The festival includes entertainment, arts and crafts, concessions, carnival games, and local businesses. The presenting sponsor is CertaPro Painters returns, along with Custom Disposal and The Auto Accident Attorney as additional sponsors.

A traffic reminder that we’ll be repeating as the date gets closer—police will be shutting down north- and southbound lanes of Johnson Ferry Road between Roswell and Lower Roswell between 9:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. See route below.

Woodlawn Drive will be open, but traffic will be affected. For information, contact Laren Brown at 770-640-7070 or laren@eastcobber.com.

 

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Cobb transit tax opponents to hold campaign kickoff event

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A coalition opposed to the Cobb transit tax referendum in November will kick off its campaign next weekend in East Cobb.Cobb transit tax opponents to hold campaign kickoff event

The Cobb Taxpayers Association announced Tuesday that a number of elected officials and others will be in attendance at the event on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 12-2 p.m. at Grace Resurrection Methodist Church (1200 Indian Hills Parkway).

The group is leading efforts against a 30-year, one-percent sales tax that, if approved by voters, is expected to collect more than $11 billion to expand bus service in Cobb.

Among the projects that would be funded with the tax is the construction of a bus transfer station in the Roswell-Johnson Ferry Road area and the restoration of two bus routes through East Cobb that were eliminated during recession budget cuts

Guest speakers at the kickoff event include:

  • Yashica Marshall, candidate for Board of Commissioners, District 4
  • Ed Setzler, State Senator
  • Bob Barr, former US Congressman, current president of the NRA
  • Alicia Adams, candidate for BOC, District 2
  • Jim Jess, chairman emeritus, Franklin Roundtable (formerly the Georgia Tea Party)
  • Salleigh Grubbs, chair of the Cobb County GOP
  • Pam Reardon, candidate for BOC, District 2
  • Denny Wilson, South Cobb local political activist

According to the CTA, the event is designed to “get YOU fired up and ready to roll up your sleeves to volunteer in our campaign to defeat this odious tax.”

There will be sign-up sheets for phone-banking, canvassing, distributing leaflets, waving signs at major intersections and putting up yard signs.

“It will give you the opportunity to experience the fact that you are not alone in this fight to save our county,” CTA said in its announcement Tuesday.

Last week, Cobb government unveiled an education page about the referendum that was produced by Kimley-Horn, an Atlanta consulting firm the county is paying $287,000 for outreach efforts, including town halls this fall.

Cobb commissioners voted 3-2 to put the proposed sales tax to a referendum, with three Democratic commissioners voting in favor, and two Republicans opposed.

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