The Music Studio Atlanta, a private music instruction business that includes a location in East Cobb, and Peachtree Hearing, also of East Cobb, were named among the Top 25 small businesses for 2025 by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.
Cecilia Rowe, The Music Studio Atlanta
In addition, The Music Studio Atlanta was named the Chamber’s top woman-owned business for 2025.
Those and other honorees will be recognized by the Chamber at a May 12 luncheon at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre in the Cumberland area.
The Chamber selects small businesses to recognize each spring, and the “winners are determined by a thorough selection process including applications and site visits by a panel of outside judges,” according to a release.”
The small business of the year will be selected from the Top 25 recipients and annonced at the luncheon.
The Music Studio Atlanta opened in Vinings and later expanded in East Cobb at the Pavilions at East Lake Shopping Center under founder Cecelia Rowe. Last year, the business was named the 2024 School of the Year by Music Academy Success, the largest international coaching organization dedicated to music academy owners.
Peachtree Hearing opened on Lower Roswell Road in 2016, and founder Dr. Melissa Wikoff was recognized by Cobb Young Professionals, a development arm of the Chamber.
She is on the board of directors on the national level for the American Tinnitus Association (ATA) and at the local level for Aloha to Aging, an East Cobb-based non-profit that helps seniors and their caregivers.
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Cobb County Public Library announces the launch of the CCPL Perks Program during National Library Week, offering exclusive discounts to library cardholders at popular participating Marietta Square businesses.
With over 480,000 cardholders, Cobb County Public Library serves a large and diverse community, and now, library cardholders can receive a 10% discount at participating Marietta Square shops, restaurants, and service providers simply by presenting their library card. The CCPL Perks Program is designed to encourage library membership, support small businesses, and strengthen connections between the library, local businesses, and the community.
Funded by the Georgia Public Library Service 2025 Marketing Grant, this program is part of a broader effort to expand library services and benefits throughout Cobb County. While the pilot program begins in Marietta Square, the Cobb County Public Library aims to expand the CCPL Perks Program across the county, including those areas near its 15 library locations.
The following Marietta Square businesses are the first official CCPL Perks Partners, providing a 10% discount to Cobb Library cardholders:
Marietta Proper, 9 W Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060, Cozy brunches with gourmet coffee, curated wine selections, and small plate pairings reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era.
Sweet Treats Ice Cream, 134 S Park Square NE, Marietta, GA 30060, Soft-serve ice cream with customizable toppings, hot chocolate, and a variety of candies.
Bomb Babes, Pop-up with assorted gourmet cake bombs, cupcakes, and more. Find them at The Local Exchange at the Marietta Square or look for their next pop-up shop here:
New businesses will be added to the CCPL Perks Program regularly. Visit the Cobb Library’s website for an updated list of Perks Partners.
Are You a Local Business in Cobb County? Join the CCPL Perks Program!
The Cobb County Public Library invites local businesses throughout Cobb County to join the CCPL Perks Program and benefit from increased visibility and community engagement. Interested businesses can sign up or learn more by contacting Allyson at allyson.eads@cobbcounty.org or by visiting cobbcounty.org/library/services/perks.
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Daryl Stewart says he continues to experiment with his Brunswick stew recipe that leans on the spicy side. (ECN photos)
Daryl Stewart’s previous career in the food industry prompted him to return earlier this year when he opened Heavenly BBQ in the Sprayberry Square Shopping Center.
It’s located in the former Willie Jewell’s location, and looks very much the same.
He put in new flooring and lightened up the interior.
But the biggest change is not only the barbecue concept he has had in mind for a long time, but the taste of the food.
“The failure for a lot of restaurants is that they cut corners on the quality of their food,” he said.
That’s what Stewart said he tasted when he got interested in taking over the Willie Jewell’s space, when the restaurant announced its closure in November after nearly seven years in East Cobb.
Stewart attends to a customer with a to-go order.
Stewart said he tried everything on the Willie Jewell’s menu, and “I didn’t like it. The product was going down and got away from fresh ingredients.”
His concept stresses fresh as much as possible, from smoked meats to classic barbecue side dishes. For example, the coleslaw is made with fresh, not bagged, cabbage, and he’s just added fresh okra because customers have been asking for it.
Collard greens, also fresh, are slow-cooked with whole garlic cloves. The mac and cheese also is entirely from scratch.
At the heart of the menu, Stewart says, is the brisket and Brunswick stew.
“I’m not a chef, but I designed the whole menu,” said Stewart, who managed two Jersey Mike’s franchises in the area, and has spent most of the last decade and a half as a chief financial officer in the information technology field.
His entrepreneurial itch was for barbecue with a distinct touch, something that’s not easy to pull off.
“I’m a foodie,” he said. “I was looking for an opportunity that had infrastructure in place, and where I can elevate the food. I thought I could do better.”
Grillmaster Gary Hampton with a brisket, which like all meats at Heavenly BBQ is hickory-smoked.
He’s hired a chef and a grill master to oversee the kitchen, and after 90 days since opening, customers are starting to file in via word of mouth.
“I want this to be a community destination for people who like barbecue,” said Stewart, who tries to interact with every customer who comes through the doors.
One of the first changes he made was at the grill, switching from oak to hickory, and taking out the fire for smoke.
All meats at Heavenly BBQ—beef, pork, chicken and turkey—are smoked.
So are the chicken sausages, which he sources from Cajun Meat Co. in East Cobb.
Being able to control the menu, and easily adapt it to customer tastes, with an emphasis on local and Georgia vendors, is a priority.
The Brunswick stew recipe includes a tomato base, with cooked meats, corn, chipotle peppers, Georgia sweet sauce and Louisiana hot sauce.
He said he may tamp that down, because some customers have found it a bit spicy.
He’s also sampled some of the nearby barbecue restaurants, and says he doesn’t necessary think of them as competitors.
“I want us all to succeed, but I want to offer something different,” Stewart said.
The menu includes hamburgers, chicken wings and a kid’s menu.
He doesn’t think that there’s a “go to” place for barbecue in metro Atlanta.
But for now, he’s focused on getting his menu right for this burgeoning customer base.
Stewart said many of them are senior citizens (and there’s a new seniors-only apartment community opening nearby at the former Sprayberry Crossing Shopping Center).
He’s also doing some catering and is putting together a special Easter menu. Like many restaurant owners, he’s challenged by labor and food cost issues.
“If this catches on,” he says of Heavenly BBQ, “I think it’s going to be a great place to go to.”
Heavenly BBQ is located at 2550 Sandy Plains Road, Suite 400.
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East Cobb Barber Shop, a trusted name in the East Cobb community since 2000, is proud to celebrate 25 years of service with a special Customer Appreciation Day on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at its Marietta location.
“We want to sincerely thank our loyal customers for making East Cobb Barber Shop your go-to spot for over two decades,” said Dee Reitz, Owner. “Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re a new face in the chair, this day is for you.”
The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring a friend and enjoy food, giveaways, surprises and community fun.
Customer Appreciation Day Schedule Location: East Cobb Barber Shop – 1401 Johnson Ferry Road #148A, Marietta, GA 30062
Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025 Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Free muffins & coffee to start the morning 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Free burgers & hot dogs fresh off the grill
All Morning: Spin the Wheel for a chance to win discounts on haircuts, shaves, hair products, and more
This milestone celebration reflects the shop’s commitment to customer service, community, and quality grooming for men of all ages.
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Job seekers, mark your calendars! Cobb County, in partnership with the City of Kennesaw, is hosting a Countywide Job Fair on Tuesday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Cobb County Civic Center, 548 S. Marietta Parkway SE, Marietta, offering an invaluable opportunity for professionals at all career levels to connect with hiring employers.
This event provides a unique opportunity for job seekers from across metro Atlanta to make meaningful connections with employers and discover why Cobb County is truly “Where Talent Meets Opportunity.” Several organizations have already confirmed their participation, including representatives from Smyrna, Acworth, Town Center CID, Powder Springs, Marietta, Austell, and Mableton.
“Cobb County is a thriving hub of opportunity, and this job fair is designed to connect talented individuals with businesses looking to grow their workforce,” said Jim Harner, Cobb’s chief human resources officer. “We encourage job seekers to come prepared to network and explore a wide range of career paths available throughout the county.”
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Newly elected Cobb school boar member John Cristadoro will be the featured speaker at the East Cobb Area Council Chamber of Commerce breakfast on March 27.
The event takes place from 7:30-9 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive).
Cristadoro, a Republican, serves Post 5, which includes the Walton, Wheeler and Pope clusters.
He and his wife have two children, who attend Walton High School and Dickerson Middle School, and he has been involved with the Walton youth football program as a coach.
The East Cobb Area Council holds three breakfasts during the year, including the East Cobb Pigskin Preview in August and the East Cobb Citizen of the Year award in November.
The cost for the March 27 breakfast is $35 for Chamber members and $45 for non-members.
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Credit Union of Georgia is excited to announce the launch of Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation, a new initiative designed to create a meaningful impact on the local communities the Credit Union serves. The Foundation’s mission is rooted in supporting individuals, schools, non-profits, and community organizations through charitable giving, volunteerism, and strategic partnerships.
As part of its commitment to enhancing lives, the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation aims to provide solutions and guidance for every stage of life, working alongside local groups and organizations to foster growth and opportunity. By investing in community-based programs and initiatives, the Foundation aims to build stronger, more vibrant communities where every individual can thrive.
“At Credit Union of Georgia, our members and their communities are at the heart of everything we do,” said Amanda Arnold, Director of Community Outreach for Credit Union of Georgia. “Through the creation of the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation, Inc. we are taking the next step in continuing our longstanding mission of making a positive, lasting difference. This initiative embodies our belief in giving back, supporting local efforts, and helping to empower those around us.”
The vision for the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation is simple: to build stronger communities, one initiative at a time. By aligning efforts with the values of the Credit Union, the Foundation will provide resources to enhance educational opportunities, support charitable organizations, and ensure that those in need have the tools to succeed. Through volunteerism, partnerships, and financial support, the Foundation will help strengthen the community, fostering growth for generations to come.
With this new initiative, Credit Union of Georgia reaffirms its dedication to its members and the surrounding communities. The Foundation will operate as a platform for charitable giving, organizing community outreach programs, and facilitating partnerships that make a tangible difference. It represents a continued commitment to the credit union’s values of trust, service, and community-centered growth.
Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation will be operated by a volunteer Board of Directors, which currently includes Credit Union of Georgia President/CEO, Brian Albrecht as Chairman, Credit Union of Georgia Chief Operating Officer, Kathy Day as Vice President, Credit Union of Georgia Chief Financial Officer, Brian Hawkins as Treasurer, Director of Administrative Support, Kim Elliot as Secretary and Chief Lending Officer Jason Walker and Vice President of Marketing, Michelle Dobbins as Board Members.
For more information about the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation and how to get involved, visit cuofga.org/foundation.
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13 Hub Lane, an upscale home furnishings and women’s clothing boutique, will be coming soon to Avenue East Cobb.
The retail center announced Wednesday that the store will be occupying the former Body and Bath Works space (4475 Roswell Road, Suite 910), between Hand and Stone Massage and LoveSac.
“13 Hub Lane provides a vast array of furniture, accessories, clothing, jewelry, and gift items,” reads a description of the store on the Avenue website. “Transforming spaces into works of art, 13 Hub Lane is your ticket to extraordinary interiors.”
The company runs two other 13 Hub Lane stores (website), in Roswell and in Panama City Beach, Fla.
The store hours at Avenue will be from 10-8 Monday-Saturday and from 12-6 on Sunday. Avenue didn’t indicate an opening date.
But 13 Hub Lane’s arrival fills one of the few remaining vacancies at Avenue. Only two spaces are up for lease, while several new restaurants will be opening soon.
Recently other home- and lifestyle retailers opened at Avenue: Boll and Branch, a bedding store, and a women’s clothing boutique, Nic+Zoe.
They include Luga, an Italian restaurant, and Giulia, a European-style cafe and patisserie, in the former Drift space, and Tenku Sushi Elevation, a Japanese-themed restaurant that will occupy one of the new “jewel box” buildings comprising the heart of Avenue’s recent redevelopment.
A spokeswoman for Luga and Giulia told East Cobb News earlier this week that tentative openings for both are planned for May.
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Bubbles & Brews, a month-long celebration of Cobb County, Georgia’s craft beverage makers, is back for its sixth year to shine a spotlight on local breweries, distilleries, and wineries.
In March, craft beverage enthusiasts can explore the Cobb Ale Trail to sample unique local brews. A free ‘BrewPass,’ is available online or at participating Hop Spots, guiding visitors to each location where they can collect stamps and earn sweet prizes from Cobb Travel & Tourism. Guests can also earn extra bonus stamps on their BrewPass by attending Bubbles & Brews Events throughout the month. Prizes include custom Bubbles & Brews silipints, stickers, t-shirts, and, new this year, a deck of playing cards.
The fun doesn’t stop there! Dog-friendly locations will also have Bubbles & Chews bandanas for four-legged friends. Dog owners can snap a photo of their dog in its Bubbles & Chews swag and post it using #BubblesAndChews to enter for a chance to win a basket for their furry friends. Visitors will also have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite makers and brews.
“The craft beverage industry in Cobb continues to thrive with new locations opening every year,” said Holly Quinlan, president & CEO of Cobb Travel & Tourism. “Since launching Bubbles & Brews in 2020, we have seen these small businesses adapt, change, grow, and flourish making Cobb County a sweet spot for beverage enthusiasts. Each March, we have the opportunity to highlight these makers and recognize their role as a year-round tourism asset in our community.”
Fifteen of Cobb’s craft beverage makers are participating in the March 2025 event, including:
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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.
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.
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Atlanta Braves president Mike Plant with Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, center.
Submitted information and photos:
The Cobb Chamber celebrated its many accomplishments of 2024 at the 83rd Annual Dinner celebration, presented by Wellstar, on Jan. 25 at the Cobb Galleria Centre. Over 1,200 business and community leaders attended the black-tie optional dinner affair, including military leaders, economic development partners and elected officials. Chris Dimino of 680 The Fan served as the event’s master of ceremonies.
The evening included a robust program, including outgoing Chairman, Mike Plant of the Atlanta Braves, passing the leadership to 2025 Chairman Chris Britton of Brasfield & Gorrie. In his address, Plant celebrated the collective efforts of the Chamber and how it served as a champion for businesses and the community over the past year.
He highlighted:
A record year at The Battery Atlanta, with 78% of tourism coming from outside of Cobb.
18 project wins for SelectCobb, which included 7 recruitments and 11 retentions, bringing more than 46,000 high quality jobs.
Growth of the Chamber’s Government Relations department and advocacy efforts.
During the evening, Plant presented several awards to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to enhance the quality of the Chamber’s programming and the quality of life in Cobb.
The 2025Len Gilbert Award was given to Luci Hogue of Scotland Wright Associates and Andrew Cox of Wellstar Health System. This award is presented to an outstanding board member who, through his or her leadership, commitment and dedication, achieved new heights for a Chamber initiative, program or event.
As 2024 Chair of Cobb Young Professionals, Hogue helped the Chamber launch a new leadership offering for this year – CYP Cultivate, a seven-month leadership and mentoring program designed to empower young professionals to grow as impactful leaders, accelerate their careers, and forge meaningful connections within the community. Hogue has served on the Membership Campaign, on the Cobb Young Professionals Steering Committee, on the Cobb Youth Leadership Steering Committee, and she is a graduate of Leadership Cobb.
For many years, Cox has been a trusted voice for the Chamber, serving as an advisor on the Board of Directors and to Chamber staff, helping shape the Chamber’s workplace culture. Last year, Cox helped to launch a new program – the Chief of Staff Roundtable. Through this program, Chief of Staffs can connect to build a more effective network of trusted advisors. In addition, Cox has been a mentor to young professionals, a Chairman’s Circle Member and is a graduate of Leadership Cobb.
The 2025Chairman’s Award was presented to Chris Britton of Brasfield & Gorrie, a dedicated partner to the Chamber andan active member of the Board of Directors since 2015. The award is presented to an individual for outstanding leadership, dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to the Cobb Chamber. Britton is a long-term investor in the Cobb Chamber, serving on the Board of Directors Executive Committee and the SelectCobb Board of Directors. He has chaired two of the most successful campaigns in the Chamber’s history, each time producing over $1 Million Dollars in memberships and sales production. Britton has served on the Government Affairs Committee and the Strategic Planning Steering Committee, and is a graduate and active alumni member of Leadership Cobb and Honorary Commanders.
The 2025Mack Henderson Public Service Award was presented to Dr. Jackie McMorris, County Manager for Cobb County Government. This award recognizes an individual who embodies the philanthropic legacy of Mack Henderson through outstanding commitment and dedication to building a better quality of life for the citizens of Cobb County.Throughout her tenure with Cobb County Government, Dr. McMorris has demonstrated a profound commitment to collaboration and progress. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping numerous key initiatives in partnership with the Chamber, the Braves, and other valued stakeholders. From the development of Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta to ensuring the safety of the community during the 2021 World Series and championship parade, Dr. McMorris contributions have left an indelible mark on Cobb County.
The 2025 Senator Johnny H. Isakson Leadership Award,was presented to Michele Swann, former General Manager and CEO of the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority. Only awarded under extraordinary circumstances, this award honors an individual whose extraordinary leadership, vision and trailblazing efforts have significantly impacted the Cobb community. In 2020, this award was renamed in honor of Senator Johnny H. Isakson to recognize those in our community who, like Senator Isakson, carry forward the torch of visionary leadership.
Since joining the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum and Exhibit Hall Authority in 1995, Swann has overseen the growth and success of some of Cobb County’s most iconic assets, including the Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Galleria Specialty Shops, and the ArtsBridge Foundation. Her leadership has elevated these facilities into economic and cultural powerhouses, driving $169 million in economic impact in 2023 alone. Her tenure has also been marked by successful partnerships, including the seamless integration of the Cobb Galleria campus with the Atlanta Braves development.
Plant’s final award of the evening, the 2025 Dr. Robert A. Lipson Award,was presented to Candice Saunders, President & CEO of Wellstar. The award is presented to someone who is a visionary, a friend, a mentor, and a leader. Under her leadership, Wellstar has built community partnerships, introduced innovative care models, and adopted advanced technologies to improve health outcomes and the patient experience, solidifying its role as a leading healthcare provider in Georgia. Saunders has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Top 25 Women Leader and one of the Top 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives. She has been named Atlanta’s Most People-Focused CEO, and one of Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians for the 9th year in a row.
The Marietta Daily Journal presented its prestigious 2024Cobb County Citizen of the Year Award to Ron Newcomb, former President ofChattahoochee Technical College. The Marietta Daily Journal has presented this award since 1963 at the Cobb Chamber Annual Dinner.
The 83rd Annual Dinner was presented by Wellstar. The invocation was offered by Deane Bonner, former President of the Cobb County NAACP. Mike Jones Entertainment provided music at the After Party, hosted by Live! at the Battery Atlanta, and JJA Project Management provided audiovisual and event production services.
Atlanta Braves mascot Blooper at the Cobb Chamber cocktail reception.
Ron Newcomb, former president of Chattahoochee Tech, accepting the Cobb County Citizen of the Year Award.
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Discover bedding and bath made different, so you can sleep better at night. Stop by and experience their quality products for yourself.
Boll & Branch is a leading designer and retailer of luxury home textiles, and the only bedding company fully managed from the source. Founded in January 2014 by Scott and Missy Tannen (now the CEO and Chief Designer, respectively), the company has become one of the largest luxury home brands ever, and counts millions of Americans, including U.S. Presidents and countless celebrities, as its customers.
All products are expertly crafted from the finest sustainable materials and are 100% traceable – guaranteeing a softer, more luxurious product. Stop in-store to schedule a complimentary consultation with a stylist.
Mark your calendar for their grand opening celebration on February 2nd from 10 AM – 3 PM for complimentary monogramming, hot chocolate, Valentine’s Day crafts for kids, and more.
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Shoppers at the Town Center at Cobb mall on Tuesday were greeted by signs on locked doors saying that “due to unforeseen circumstances” most of the stores at the Kennesaw retail center were closed.
The announcements didn’t explain what those circumstances were, and the said the closures would be in effect “until further notice.”
Later Tuesday, Town Center announced on its website that the mall will reopen Wednesday.
“We appreciate your patience and look forward to seeing you soon,” according to the message, which did not provide further details.
Anchor stores Belk, JCPenney and Macy’s were open on Tuesday.
But Georgia Power said it had disconnected electricity in most of the mall due to “highly delinquent” bills.
And the MDJ reported that the Cobb Fire Marshall has issued a warning saying that due to the electrical disconnection, fire alarm and sprinkler systems aren’t working.
Georgia Power issued a statement saying that “we’ve tried to work with Town Center Mall for many months and have provided numerous solutions to assist them in avoiding disconnection.
“Unfortunately, any customer that is highly delinquent in paying their bills ultimately has a negative impact for all of our customers so, while we will continue to work with the customer and are hopeful a payment will be made, we can no longer continue to extend the grace period.”
Georgia Power said it provided advance notice to Kohan and the tenants with hand-delivered letters and signs, and “we also made key community leaders aware.”
The financially struggling Town Center at Cobb, located on Barrett Parkway near I-575, opened in 1986 and for a time was the largest indoor mall in Georgia.
It currently houses 144 stores and services in more that 1.2 million square feet.
But in recent years, as the retail industry has been transformed by online shopping, Town Center has been proposed for redevelopment, although no specific plans have emerged.
Last year, Gwinnett commissioners approved a mixed-use redevelopment plan for the Gwinnett Place Mall, which like Town Center opened during the peak of the shopping mall industry in the late 1980s.
And at Cumberland Mall, the space that formerly housed a Sear’s store was approved for redevelopment for apartments, offices and other non-retail uses by Cobb commissioners in 2022.
In 2023, Town Center was purchased at auction by Kohan Retail Investment Group after previous owners considering closing the center for good.
The Belk store announced last week that it would be closing in February.
Kohan, which purchases struggling malls, also has had retail properties in other states disconnected for failing to pay electric bills.
Last year, one of its malls in Michigan has been closed for more than a year for non-payment of electric bills, and now has a new owner.
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As we noted previously, this Guthrie’s will be drive-through only due to the small size of the 3.17-acre property.
Cobb commissioners approved site plan changes in December 2023 that include right-in, right-out access only on Lower Roswell Road.
Guthrie’s knocked down the small building that formerly housed several small businesses for a new 1,500-foot structure with a drive-through canopy and 10 parking spaces.
An inflatable chicken greets motorists along Lower Roswell Road, but is partially hidden due to a low wall constructed near the intersection.
Guthrie’s is an Alabama-based chain that has one other Cobb location, in Mableton, and recently opened a restaurant in the Woodstock area.
It’s coming into a competitive East Cobb area for fast casual food, and chicken in particular. Guthrie’s menu features chicken fingers, and includes chicken sandwiches and buckets.
A Super Chix opened at Avenue East Cobb in September. In April, Howlin’ Willy’s, a hot-chicken concept from Willy’s Mexicana Grill, opened at Pine Straw Place near Trader’ Joes.
There’s also a long-standing Zaxby’s caddy-corner at the northeast intersection of Johnson Ferry and Lower Roswell.
Guthrie’s hours in East Cobb are 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily.
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The Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority has announced the hiring of Charles Beirne as General Manager & CEO.
With more than 25 years of venue management experience, Beirne will be responsible for the administrative oversight and strategic growth of the Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Galleria Specialty Shops and ArtsBridge Foundation.
“Charlie is uniquely qualified for this position because of his combination of experience leading convention centers, entertainment venues and performing arts centers,” said Jerry Nix, Chairman of the Authority. “Additionally, as we prepare to launch the renovation and expansion of the Cobb Galleria Centre in 2025, Charlie brings expertise in this area that is a perfect fit for our future growth.”
Beirne joins the Authority from the Broward County Convention Center Expansion and Hotel Project, where he was regional general manager responsible for the day-to-day operations of the convention center, which is currently undergoing a $1.4 billion expansion project. He has operated and expanded a variety of other facilities including the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the convention center, two theaters, and an arena, as well as the Atlantic City Convention Center, where he held a variety of roles including regional general manager for the convention center and arena. Beirne is a graduate of Lebanon Valley College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.
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A new retail store has opened at Avenue East Cobb and on Thursday held a grand opening.
It’s Nic+Zoe, a women’s clothing and accessories store (4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1000, next to Vanilla Cafe).
Hours are Monday-Saturday 10-8, Sunday 12-6.
The brand is based in Boston and features knitwear clothing lines. It operates stores in similar affluent suburban areas in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Colorado and Illinois.
The East Cobb store (1,200 square feet) is the second Nic+Zoe in the South, joining another outlet in Charlotte.
Nic+Zoe was founded in the late 2000s by a knitwear designer, Dorian Lightbown. After starting as a wholesaler, Nic+Zoe (named after Lightblown’s children) began an e-commerce operation, then opened its first retail store in 2014.
“What started with a sweater has become a mission to bring the artistry, adaptability and comfort of premium knitwear into your wardrobe,” the company states on its website.
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Since a team of experienced business leaders officially launched Cobb County Business Bootcamp (CCBB) in March, nearly 150 small businesses joined the new organization focused on helping Cobb-based minority-owned small business owners.
CCBB exists to support these owners at all stages of their enterprise, from evolving their idea to securing launch funds, from solving complex questions of marketing, sales, operations or finance to determining when to expand or sell.
“I recommended The CCBB to a few fellow business owners and encouraged them to join,” said Jodi Holtz, founder of Cobb-based Happy Helper Organizing. “Their team is really helpful, and the website tips and roundtables were beneficial.”
Courses around people management (i.e., hiring, onboarding, development and training), leadership and a course titled “Is entrepreneurship for you?” are for small business owners. The experienced CCBB team provides free tools, knowledge and Done With You consulting services providing support to write a successful business story. They also offer weekly webinars on topics such as financial literacy, marketing tips and website reviews.
“We assembled a range of seasoned experts, each with a proven record, who created an A-to-Z business program with DIY online courses, live workshops, peer-to-peer roundtables and done-with-you consulting services,” said CCBB President Brian Kramer. “Our commitment is to provide minority small business owners much needed support to not only survive but also thrive and grow.”
The brainchild of Kramer and a small group of longtime business collaborators, CCBB’s growing community is free, available thanks to a federal grant established in 2022. Kramer’s team secured funding through a competitive national request for proposal process, with resources now available to sustain CCBB for several years. The team used the second half of 2023 to prepare initial content, with a soft launch taking place in March 2024.
With original, team-assembled content informed by the Cobb County business landscape, CCBB offers six multi-course pathways with focus on sales, marketing, operations, finance/legal, human resources and entrepreneurial evolution.
In addition to the educational pathways, CCBB also provides a mix of live or in-person member events as well as an online community platform for collaboration. The CCBB team also helps members connect with qualified and vetted subject matter experts with a history of support for small businesses.
“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,” said Kramer. “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.”
Cobb County Business Bootcamp is a community of established business owners helping fellow business owners to find success. Since officially opening, CCBB accepted 139 business owners as member participants. The detailed application process, open to business owners 21 and older, is available online via TheCCBB.com/apply.
“It’s a team of embedded mentors providing the opportunity to grow business, develop relationships and find fellowship,” said Evan Summers, founder of Now Schmear This. “I’m looking forward to The CCBB’s launch of Done With You services providing a side-by-side mentor who will help with growth for my business and for me professionally.”
For convenience, the CCBB website includes six language options—English, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, Mandarin and Hindi—tailored to serve Cobb County’s diverse array of small businesses.
“One of the biggest challenges faced by minority small business owners is simply deciding when and how to tackle the challenges they face,” said Laurie Genevish, CCBB Director of Development and Delivery. “Our evolving curriculum is designed to give everyone a place to start and to see things through to a solution with expert input, listening and exploring all the facets of the business opportunity.”
With offices based in a shared workspace at Roam Galleria Parkway at 3101 Cobb Pkwy. SE in northwest Atlanta, the CCBB team aspires and is on track to achieve engagement with over 200 members by the end of 2024.
“The CCBB’s services resonate with me on many levels, as the organization is both local and easily accessible within the community,” said Robert Joseph, Ph.D., co-founder of Team MindShift. “Their topics align perfectly with what I need as an entrepreneur, and the opportunity to network with others adds tremendous value.”
CCBB encourages diverse applicants including all races, LGBTQ, veteran and/or women-owned businesses.
“A community of like-minded and supportive people is so very important. It’s the being AND the doing,” said Kristen Santos, a certified professional coach and licensed occupational therapist who founded Kristen Coached Me. “Being in a community helps me become the entrepreneur I desire so I can do good work!”
Cobb County Business Bootcamp is a community of established business owners helping fellow business owners to find success. Launched in 2024 with a federally funded grant, the Cobb County Business Bootcamp is a program created for minority-owned small business owners and those dreaming of starting their own businesses in Cobb County, Ga. The program offers education, community and practical suggestions to launch and expand sustainable businesses. For more information or to apply, visit www.TheCCBB.com and follow @theCCBB on Instagram.
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A shopper browses the merchandise at Casabella, where holiday items have been stocked since September. ECN photos and video.
Almost as soon as Christmas sales are over, Cathy Linton will begin making plans for the 2025 holiday shopping season.
The owner of the Casabella boutique home furnishings, decor, women’s clothing and gifts store at Merchants Exchange Shopping Center (website here) will order next year’s supply in January, with some items shipping as early as May.
“We’re not like the chains,” said Linton, who has owned Casabella for the last eight years of its 22-year history. “We can’t order any more” after that.
Since September, she and her staff have been stocking the shelves of the nearly 12,000-square-foot store with Christmas items of almost every imaginable holiday gift idea in mind: from trees, ornaments and college-themed merchandise, to jewelry and handmade goods.
Casabella also is expanding its supplies of Judaica items as Hanukkah begins this year on Dec. 25.
In an area with plenty of national chain powerhouses to compete against, Casabella has carved out a loyal niche of customers focused on local attention, as well as novelty.
One of the more popular features at Casabella for the holidays is a mechanical reindeer who turns his head while songs of the season are played.
Linton said that “kids come just to hear that every year.”
“It’s the only store like this in this area,” said Linton, a former corporate executive who lives in East Cobb and touts her partnerships with nearby organizations and vendors, including craftswomen who put their personal touches on their work.
“Local mom, local mom, local mom, local mom,” Linton said, pointing to items on the shelves that truly are locally sourced.
It’s all part of an effort to sell customers on the idea of shopping locally, and supporting local businesses, some of whom may be neighbors or people they know.
While Casabella’s shop local mantra is year-round, the theme is especially emphasized during the holiday season. In addition to Small Business Saturday, Casabella also urging its customer base to support what it’s dubbing “Pink Friday: Local First” in lieu of the corporate-themed Black Friday.
“We are lucky to have so many amazing locally owned gift shops that support each other throughout the year,” states the Pink Friday promotion. “We are all owned by local moms. We hire local and support local schools, sports teams and charities.”
That includes giving them a shout-out on her social media pages, and even making referrals with Findlay Rowe, Ivy Lane, Little Red Bird and Signatures.
“We send people to each other all the time,” Linton said. “So many of our people support the local shops. We want them all to succeed.”
She noted several new restaurants that have come to Merchants Exchange recently, and said that while it doesn’t necessary affect her foot traffic, “I just want small businesses to survive.”
To get a head start on the season, Casabella held an open house with special sales in early November.
Linton also highlights special areas of merchandise—such as college-themed goods—on her social media pages.
For gift-hunters, there’s no shortage of ideas, even down to snack items and last-minute Thanksgiving food prep assistance.
One thing Casabella is not is an online store. Even during COVID-19, while it was closed for a few months, Linton and her son made home deliveries to customers who called in their orders.
“People want to come in and walk around,” she said. “They know the ladies who work here.”
Losing that personal touch, she added, would change the dynamic of the business and the shopping experience that she’s tried to maintain.
Casabella is located at 4400 Roswell Road, Suite 128. Hours are Monday-Saturday 10-6, and Sunday 12-5. Closed Thanksgiving.
Cathy Linton, at right, has been Casabella owner for the last 8 years.
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A third location of the Johnson Ferry Road-based Marietta Donuts will be opening soon, and will be the second in East Cobb.
A social media posting last week indicated that the new space is in the Sprayberry Collection shopping center (2520 East Piedmont Road, Suite 3) and that plans are to open before Christmas.
Sokcheat Heng opened the first Marietta Donuts next to a gas station (now Shell) at 1282 Johnson Ferry Road with his girlfriend and business partner, Sophal Chhim, in 2016.
In addition to a wide variety of doughnuts, the shop sells fritters and kolaches, a Polish-style pastry with sausage, as well as croissants, cinnamon rolls, eclairs, breakfast biscuits, bagels, coffees and teas.
In 2021, a second Marietta Donuts opened on Cobb Parkway in Kennesaw.
East Cobb News has left a message with Marietta Donuts seeking more information.
Sprayberry Collection is located on East Piedmont near Sandy Plains Road and Sprayberry High School. The small retail center used to house Cafe 33 and other small businesses but there are mostly empty storefronts now.
But it’s also located near the now-razed Sprayberry Crossing Shopping Center that’s being redeveloped. The first phase of that project, EVOQ of East Cobb, is a 55-and-older apartment building that is under construction.
Townhomes and retail spaces also are planned for the redevelopment which has been named East Cobb Walk.
The Marietta Donuts space will take up 1,200 square feet that formerly was occupied by a hair salon at Sprayberry Collection.
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Michele Swann, General Manager & CEO of the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority, has announced that she will leave her leadership position effective December 31, 2024.
In her role with the Authority since 1995, Swann has been responsible for the administrative oversight and strategic growth of the Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Galleria Specialty Shops and ArtsBridge Foundation. An announcement about a new General Manager and CEO will be made in early December.
“Michele deserves all the credit for her steady leadership and execution of the Authority’s vision – among other things – to develop the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, create the ArtsBridge Foundation, launch the capital plan to construct the performing arts center, guide the operations through a pandemic and oversee the design and programming for the renovation and expansion of the Cobb Galleria Centre,” said Jerry Nix, Chairman of the Authority. “She has been a watchful steward of the Authority’s assets, and the longevity and tenure of her staff is a testament to her quiet, humble leadership.”
Connie Engel, Chairwoman of the Authority’s Personnel Committee, said, “I struggle adequately finding the right words, but we at the Authority (and moreover those of us in Cobb County) are extremely grateful to Michele for the dedication and heart she has put into everything she has done over the last 29 years, including the years spent integrating the Cobb Galleria campus and parking with the new Braves development. Her leadership has resulted in a successful partnership with the Atlanta Braves, Cobb County and other area stakeholders.”
A 40-year veteran of the venue management industry, Swann has opened, operated, and expanded a variety of facilities including convention centers, arenas and performing arts centers in Atlanta, College Park, Ga., Augusta, Ga., and Niagara Falls, N.Y.
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