East Cobb Business

East Cobb restaurant update: Guthrie’s Chicken opens Monday

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East Cobb Guthrie's Chicken opening

A year after its plans were approved by the county, a Guthrie’s Chicken location in East Cobb is set to open.

We went by the new building today (4774 Lower Roswell Road at Johnson Ferry Road) and the electronic sign said the opening is Monday, Dec. 16.

There are work crews doing final touch-up work, and the location recently passed its first health inspection with flying colors.

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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Cobb-Marietta Coliseum Authority names new GM and CEO

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Submitted information and photo:

Cobb-Marietta Coliseum Authority names new GM and CEO
Charles Beirne

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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East Cobb retail update: Nic+Zoe opens at Avenue

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A new retail store has opened at Avenue East Cobb and on Thursday held a grand opening.East Cobb retail update: Nic+Zoe opens at Avenue

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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Cobb Business Bootcamp offers free services and courses

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Submitted information:Cobb Business Bootcamp offers free services and courses

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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East Cobb Biz Scene: ‘Local First is Casabella’s pledge

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East Cobb Biz Scene: At Casabella, Christmas starts early
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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Marietta Donuts to open third location near Sprayberry HS

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Marietta Donuts to open third location near Sprayberry HS

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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Cobb-Marietta Coliseum GM/CEO departs after 29 years

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Cobb-Marietta Coliseum CEO departs after 29 years
Michelle Swann

Submitted information and photo:

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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Cobb Young Professionals announces inaugural 2024 class

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Cobb Chamber of Commerce
Submitted information:

CYP Cultivate, the Cobb Chamber’s newest leadership development program, has selected 51 new participants for the 2024-2025 class. Through a series of skills development workshops and one-on-one pairings with seasoned mentors, this six-month leadership program helps young professionals grow as leaders, excel in their careers, and make impactful connections in the community.

Congratulations to the 2024 Class:

Will Albers
Gas South

Andrew Allison
Kennesaw State University

Avery Arnold
Brasfield & Gorrie

Leah Barton
LoRusso Law Firm

 Georgia Beggs
Win-Tech, Inc. 

Jacob Bower
City of Smyrna Fire Department 

Evan Burnett
Chattahoochee Technical College

Tiara Chambliss
JE Dunn Construction

Kelly Daniels
Wellstar Health System

London Demetriou
BIS Benefits

DeChino Duke
Polsinelli/100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta

Carson Earnest
Delta Airlines

Danny Fischer
City of Marietta Fire Department

Katie Guice
Cobb Chamber of Commerce

Milad Jabbari
Hemophilia of Georgia

Crystal Jordan
Cobb County School District 

Avery Maddox
Cobb Electric Membership Corporation

Katherine Markey
Atlanta Braves

Tori O’Bryant
Northside Hospital Cherokee

Zack Orr
Kimley-Horn & Associates

 Jared Rakestraw
Marietta Police Department

 Timothy Ray
Cobb Travel & Tourism

 Josh Smith
All Contractor Marketing

 Lily Smith
City of Mableton

 Abby Smith
Visit Marietta

 Alena Urruzmendi
Proda Technology

Mentors include:

Allan Bishop
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

 Edith Boy
Edward Jones

 Tripp Boyer
Boyer Ramey Wealth Management

Angelo Brown
Shepherding Leaders

Littie Brown
SpeedPro Marietta

Melissa Cantrell
CDH Partners

Stewart Carlin
Accounting Consultants of Cobb

Kris Delaney
Cobb EMC

Joy Doss
The Doss Firm

Allison Giddens
Win-Tech

Brittney Gray
Visit Marietta

Arnold Huffman
Yalo!

Kevin Hyland
Sweetwater Financial

Fitz Johnson
Public Service Commission

Don Keller
Don Keller Coaching, LLC

Brian Marcos
Smyrna Fire Department

Jesus Martinez
Peach Tree Commercial Capital

Mazi Mazloom
Mazloom Law Firm

Holly Quinlan
Cobb Travel & Tourism

Dena Rodrigues
Daniel Corporation

Amanda Seals
Cobb Chamber

Jeremy Strife
Atlanta Braves

Tracy Styf
Town Center CID

Roz Tucker
Atlanta Regional Commission

Andrew Walker
Colliers International

CYP Cultivate is sponsored by Presenting Sponsor, Cobb EMC, and CYP Cultivate Champion Sponsors, The Mazloom Law Firm LLC and Wellstar Health System. For more information about this program, contact Rebecca Chadwick at rchadwick@cobbchamber.org. 

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Board and Brush craft studio closes

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Board and Brush closing at year's end

UPDATED TUESDAY, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m.

This from Board and Brush just now:

We are sorry to announce that the Marietta Studio is no longer hosting workshops and will be closed indefinitely.

We have sent cancellation emails to all customers who had an upcoming event. In addition, refunds have been processed to all customers affected by the sudden closure.

We certainly hope you will visit one of our other wonderful Bb studios hosting festive events! Here is a link to find the location nearest you!

https://boardandbrush.com/studio-locations

Thank you for being a valued Bb customer! If you have questions, please email hello@boardandbrush.com

ORIGINAL REPORT:

The East Cobb location of the Board and Brush Creative Studio will be closing on Dec. 28, according to a social media posting.

The announcement came on Thursday, and said that customers who have a rebook code, store credit, or gift certificate please should contact the store immediately “so that we can review options with you for the use of these items or if a refund is appropriate.”

Board and Brush is a nationwide company offering DIY wood decor and crafts workshops geared mainly for a female clientele.

The East Cobb location was initially at Woodlawn Commons, then moved to 2323 Shallowford Road in a retail center at Trickum Road.

The store message on Thursday said that its e-mail address (marietta-eastcobb@boardandbrush.com) and telephone number (770-599-2660), “will remain active for the next few weeks. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. We have enjoyed our time in Marietta-East Cobb and we thank you for letting us be a part of your community.”

A Better Today Books & Boutique opening

A Better Today Books and Boutique will be opening on Nov. 30 at 2300 Shallowford Road, in the Shallowford Plaza Shopping Center.

The store is “a first of its kind in Cobb County,” specializing in books and featuring “a whimsical and serene literary sanctuary where we encourage the importance of reading books that inspire your well-being.”

Topics include emotional, physical, mental, spiritual, financial, cultural and environmental wellness.

Activities will feature author signing events, musical book reads, spoken wellness word gatherings and wellness book clubs.

The store also will sell wellness-related gifts and apparel and includes a children’s reading room.

The owner is Dr. Viola Lanier, a former school teacher who founded a non-profit for women cancer survivors.

NCBA November luncheon

Cobb District Attorney Flynn Broady is the guest speaker at the Nov. 20 monthly luncheon of the Northeast Cobb Business Association.

The event is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Piedmont Church (570 Piedmont Road) and the cost is $20 for members and $35 for non-members. Info and registration: Click here.

Holiday business parties

The East Cobb Business Association is holding its holiday social on Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Wellstar East Cobb Health Park (3747 Roswell Road). The cost is $10 for members and a member guest, and $15 for non-members.

The NCBA’s Alive After Five holiday event is Thursday, Dec. 5, at Marlow’s Tavern (745 Chastain Road, Kennesaw.

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Butch Carter named 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year

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Butch Carter named 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Butch Carter with his wife Kimberly Shea-Carter and former East Cobb Citizen of the Year Susan Hampton.

Business owner and civic leader Butch Carter was named the 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year Thursday by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.

The honor was announced during the Chamber’s East Cobb Area Council breakfast at Indian Hills Country Club.

According to the Chamber, “the Citizen of the Year Awards are given to honor an individual whose impact through the years will be recognized and regarded with pride throughout the area as a role model. These outstanding citizens are chosen for their definable, exceptional deeds, with which he or she has made their community a better place to live. Awards are given based on local area nominations.”

Carter is the owner of Honest-1 Auto Care on East Cobb Drive and is a past president of the East Cobb Rotary Club, supervising the distribution of over $100,000 to local charities in the 2023-2024 Rotary year.

The club also raised $30,000 to Lunches for Learning, a charity that provides food for needy children in Honduras. Carter leads the club’s volunteer efforts with East Cobb Park, road cleanup, clean water projects, and veteran organizations.

More from the Chamber about Carter’s community activities:

“Carter’s volunteer endeavors include service at MUST Ministries, the McCleskey-East Cobb YMCA, and the East Cobb Business Association. Some of his notable achievements with the East Cobb Business Association has been supporting the East Cobb Public Safety Celebration and winning the East Cobb Business Association Business Person of the Year award. He served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force after attending North Carolina State University on an Air Force ROTC scholarship. His generosity and positive energy are an invaluable part of the East Cobb community.”

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Capital City Bank foundation awards $13.5K to Cobb non-profits

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Capital City Bank foundation awards $13.5K to Cobb non-profits

Submitted information and photo:

During the 2024 grant cycle, the Capital City Bank Group (CCBG) Foundation reinvested $13,500 into the Cobb County community, awarding grants to Cobb Collaborative, Marietta Schools Foundation, Marietta Cobb Museum of Art, 10 Women of Hope, Cobb & Douglas Public Health and Communities In Schools of Georgia. The donations provided by the CCBG Foundation help nonprofits carry on the mission of the Foundation to enhance the quality of life for countless local citizens in the areas where we do business.

“Enriching the quality of life in the communities we serve is the primary mission of the Capital City Bank Group Foundation and a calling our bankers are proud to share,” said Ron King, Capital City Bank president of Cobb County. “Whether by way of dollars pledged annually by the Capital City Bank Group Foundation or through the individual efforts of our associates to donate their time and talents, Capital City Bankers are deeply invested in making a meaningful difference in the places we call home.”

The CCBG Foundation – a nonprofit organization created in 1983 by Capital City Bank Group, Inc. – is designed to build strong communities by enhancing the quality of life in communities where Capital City does business. The Foundation provides grants to nonprofits, charitable organizations and institutions exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The mission of the CCBG Foundation is to invest in initiatives that benefit local communities. Most of the funds are distributed to specific areas of focus, including: arts/culture, children/youth services, economic/community development, education, health/sciences and human services.

For a complete list of the 2024 approved grants, please go to www.ccbg.com/ccbg-foundation. To learn more about the Capital City Bank Group Foundation, visit www.ccbgfoundation.org.

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Chamber to honor veterans, name East Cobb Citizen of the Year

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The final East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce breakfast of 2024 takes place Thursday.

Chamber to honor veterans name East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Travis Ellis

The event takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive) and features a special tribute to veterans.

The 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year also will be named.

The deadline to register is Monday and can be done by clicking here. The cost ranges from $30 for Cobb Chamber members to $40 for non-members.

Here’s more on the veterans’ portion of the program, involving the Shepherd’s Men organization:

“Ten years ago, a movement was born in Cobb County. Travis Ellis and his friends had a dream to create something bigger than themselves in support of our nation’s veteran heroes affected by the hidden injuries of war. That dream came to life in the form of Shepherd’s Men. Their mission is simple. They would raise funds and awareness for the SHARE Military Initiative, a life-saving program for post-9/11 military veterans at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Each year, they set out on grueling multi-state runs and rucks, symbolically sharing the burden these veterans face each day. Ten years later, Shepherd’s Men has run more than 5,000 miles and raised over $11 million for SHARE, covering the annual clinical budget of $1.2 million and growing the number of veterans served each year.
 
“Join us for this moving program featuring a fireside chat with Shepherd’s Men co-founder, Travis Ellis, and a long-time supporter and Marine Veteran, Mitch Rhoden. Travis and Mitch will reflect on ten years of life-saving impact through Shepherd’s Men, what’s on the horizon, and how you can help amplify their impact. In addition to their roles with Shepherd’s Men, Travis and Mitch are local business owners and long-time Chamber members. Travis runs Mobilized Fuels in Marietta, GA and has served as a Chairman for the Cobb Chamber’s Honorary Commanders Program. Mitch is the President and CEO of Futren Hospitality and is a Past Chairman of the Cobb Chamber Board of Directors.”

Jamestown acquires Avenue East Cobb property management firm

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xJamestown acquires Avenue East Cobb property management firm
The outdoor public plaza that’s the centerpiece of major changes at Avenue East Cobb. (ECN file photo)

Back in August we noted the pending sale of the Atlanta office of North American Properties, which has managed the overhaul of Avenue East Cobb.

On Wednesday NAP officially sent out word that the acquisition by Jamestown, a commercial real estate investment and management firm, which also operates Parkaire Landing Shopping Center in East Cobb and Ponce City Market in Atlanta, has closed.

A sale price was not disclosed but the acquisition includes other metro Atlanta properties in Avalon, Atlantic Station and Colony Square. Jamestown’s assets now total $13.7 billion, according to a release sent out Wednesday.

“This acquisition gives us the ability to accelerate our expansion in secondary and tertiary markets throughout the Sun Belt where the population is growing,” Jamestown CEO Matt Bronfman said in the release.

“The additional experience in these markets and product types reinforces and enhances our differential capabilities as a vertically integrated, mixed-use operator, providing additional bench strength in these fast-growing markets.”

NAP took over management of Avenue East Cobb in 2021 and installed an outdoor public plaza and other amenities, and increased public events.

With those changes have come a number of new tenants, especially restaurants. Most recently, NAP announced an Italian restaurant and patisserie and a Japanese restaurant will be opening in early 2025.

Britni Johnson, a company spokeswoman, told East Cobb News that “no further changes are planned at this time; we’re just continuing to move forward on new tenant buildouts. Guests should not notice any differences in the team or property operations.”

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Pause wellness studio to hold East Cobb grand opening

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Pause wellness studio to hold East Cobb grand opening

Submitted information and photo:

Celebrate the highly anticipated grand opening of Pause Studio at Avenue East Cobb on Saturday, November 2, 2024. From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Pause East Cobb will officially open its doors to wellness enthusiasts with an all-day event featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony, studio tours, wellness consultations, exclusive discounts, an exciting raffle, and goodie bags for the first 50 guests. Attendees can meet local owners Lisa and Evan Benson while sipping beverages from The Georgia Hemp Company, enjoying treats from Sugar Shane’s, getting permanent jewelry courtesy of Sparx, or creating custom trucker hats with Boho Trace. The event also includes exclusive discounts including Founding Discovery Packages at 50% off, along with 20% off other packages and founding Memberships at www.pausestudio.com/eastcobb. 
WHAT:  Pause East Cobb Grand Opening Celebration

WHEN:  Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

WHERE:  Pause East Cobb 

Avenue East Cobb
4475 Roswell Rd, Suite B-420
Marietta, GA 30062

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East Cobb Biz Scene: The Playroom children’s gym opens

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East Cobb Biz Scene: The Playroom children's gym opens

Last week The Playroom East Cobb, a “children’s gym” catering to youngsters with developmental differences, opened to the public and held a grand opening.

The Playroom is located at 1344 East Cobb Drive, Suite 200. Among the features of the 3,600-square-foot space are a climate-controlled space with play structures, activities, toys and therapy facilities for children with autism, sensory challenges and ADHD.

Owner and founder Stephanie Fisher, an East Cobb resident, said she was inspired to create the space in response to challenges she faced in finding play spaces for her own children that weren’t overstimulating.

She and her husband Nate are the parents of two boys, Jackson and Greyson.

“We designed The Playroom for kids, but as a mom, parents were always on the top of my mind,” Fisher said. “So, we made it easy to watch your kids. We wanted a place where parents could play with their kids, but also be able to drop them off when they needed a break. And it needed to be affordable enough that they could bring their children regularly. We knew that having the therapists on site will be incredibly valuable for the families that need them.”

The Playroom also has a therapy suite and gym for professionals such as speech therapists, counselors, and occupational therapists, who will provide care and classes for children and parents.

Fisher said the age range for children are infants through elementary school, and The Playroom is available for open play, private birthday parties, special classes programs and related activities.

Play sessions last up to 90 minutes and there are various individual and family membership rates. For more information, click here.

The Downtown Pooch opens at PMV

A pet boutique shop, The Downtown Pooch, has opened at Paper Mill Village (255 Village Parkway, Suite 134), across from Hot Dogs Cool Cats.

The doors opened officially on Monday, and it’s the second location of the Roswell-based pet retailer, which provides a range of products and services, including “wholistic pet cuisine,”

A grand opening is set for Saturday, Nov. 2. For information, contact hello@thedowntownpooch.com.

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2024 Cobb Cybersecurity Day presented by Cobb County ITS

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Submitted information:2024 Cobb Cybersecurity Day presented by Cobb County ITS

Commissioner Richardson invites you to attend the 2024 Cobb Cybersecurity Day on October 25, 2024!

Cobb County Government is committed to serving the community, which is why we are hosting this event to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves online. Ever heard of “social engineering”? It’s a tactic used by cybercriminals that exploits human psychology rather than technical hacking. Being aware of these tactics can help you recognize and avoid potential threats!

The 2024 Cobb Cybersecurity Day will be held on Friday, Oct. 25 from 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM at 1150 Powder Springs Street.

Cybersecurity awareness can save you money! A data breach can cost individuals thousands of dollars in recovery costs. Educating yourself about online safety can help you avoid these expenses.

This year’s event will feature industry-leading speakers, interactive presentations, and discussions on cyber safety for both organizations and individuals.

Click here for more information and to register today: https://www.cobbcounty.org/events/cybersecurity-day.

 

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Fluffy Fluffy Cafe eyes November opening

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Fluffy Fluffy Cafe eyes November opening

A small vacant space at the Merchant’s Exchange Shopping Center looks non-descript for the moment, with its windows blocked out to indicate renovations.

Behind the scenes, a new franchise of a small chain, the Fluffy Fluffy Dessert Cafe, is being prepared for a likely November opening.

The franchisee is truly local.

After a long career in the technology sector, Tri Phan recently began considering entrepreneurial opportunities. His daughters attend Walton High School, and he wants his new business to be community focused.

“I’ve been looking for a place in East Cobb,” he said, initially pursuing a coffee/tea establishment. “Even if this wasn’t a franchise, I’d want to operate it the same way.”

He settled on Fluffy Fluffy Cafe, a dessert cafe with a wide array of coffees and teas, plus a few savory items (menu here.)

The headliner, Phan says, is Japanese souffle pancakes.East Cobb Biz Scene: Fluffy Fluffy Cafe eyes November opening

Fluffy Fluffy grew out of an original concept in Toronto, and has expanded to nearly a dozen franchises in the United States, including two in metro Atlanta, Duluth and Tucker, which is having a Nov. 9 grand opening.

The East Cobb location will occupy nearly 2,000 square feet next to Jersey Mike’s when it opens. It will be among several new eateries at Merchant’s Exchange, including Katana Sushi and Hibachi and J’MZ and artisanal coffee and tea spot with juices, light breakfast items, bowls and bakery items.

“It was just time for a change, said Phan, who left his technology job as a product manager earlier this year when it was purchased by another company.

For now, as the location is being built out, Phan—who earned an MBA from the University of Michigan—is laying some marketing and promotional groundwork.

He hoping for a soft opening by the end of October with a grand opening in November, but hasn’t set any hard dates.

Phan said the opening hours for Fluffy Fluffy Cafe will be 10-8 Sunday-Thursday and 10-9 on Friday-Saturday.

Pause Studio sets grand opening

Pause Studio will have a flotation therapy chamber.

Pause Studio, which provides holistic wellness services, will hold its grand opening at Avenue East Cobb on Nov. 2 from 12-6 p.m. (475 Roswell Rd, Suite B-420).

Based in Los Angeles,, Pause will be opening its first franchise location outside of California, featuring wellness treatments, including floatation therapy, infrared saunas, LED light therapy, IV therapy, contrast therapy, cryotherapy, and naturopathic medicine.

“It’s been our passion to open a state-of-the-art wellness studio in our own backyard, helping us realize our vision of providing the community with modern, holistic lifestyle solutions that nurture both mind and body,” says franchise owner Lisa Benson, who is local. “Our mission is to lead Atlanta’s wellness space through unparalleled service, education, and by offering approachable and affordable solutions that empower everyone to live healthier, happier lives.”

A company release said the new Pause Studio is the first in Cobb County to receive health department approval for cold plunges and float tanks.

The grand opening includes food, drink mini-services from partners, a raffle, giveaways, studio tours and more. Initial Founding Discovery Packages at are being sold for 50 percent off, along with 20 percent off other packages and founding memberships.

Helping those in need

A number of businesses, religious institutions and other organizations have been collecting donations for Hurricane Helene victims in North Carolina.

Suburban Tap has been loading up several vehicles to transport to those needing assistance, as the restaurant notes on its Facebook page:

They’ve been asking for the donations on their social media channels for the last few days, and last week offered specials for refugees from Hurricane Milton in Florida.

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Prominent Cobb business leader opposes transit tax referendum

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One of the most high-profile business leaders in Cobb County organizing a rally this week against the Cobb transit tax referendum that’s on the November ballot.

John Loud, Cobb Chamber of Commerce
John Loud

The event on Thursday was led by John Loud and Cobb Republican state legislators John Carson and Ginny Ehrhart “and other Cobb County business leaders.”

Loud is the founder of Loud Security Systems and is a former president of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. He was a key figure in efforts to lure the Atlanta Braves to Cobb County in 2013.

He has become more active politically recently, recruiting Republican candidates John Cristadoro (Cobb Board of Education Post 4) and Kay Morgan (Cobb Commission Chair) to run for office in 2024.

What’s being called the Cobb Mobility SPLOST, if approved by voters in the referendum, raise the current sales tax totals in Cobb County from six to seven cents on the dollar.

The transit tax would collect a one-percent Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax for 30 years (more than $11 billion) to expand bus service in Cobb County, including 108 new miles of routes as well as construction of transfer stations and expansion of microtransit and other related services.

In a social media post Monday, Loud called the tax “such a waste of money” and said the county hasn’t been transparent on ridership figures and how the money would be spent.

The MDJ has reported that ridership across the overall Cobb bus system has plummeted from 3.7 million annual trips in 2014 to just under 1 million trips in 2022, and that the decline began well before COVID-19.

Cobb commissioners voted in a 3-2 partisan vote in June to put the tax out for a referendum. It’s the longest and most ambitious sales tax in Cobb County, and Cobb Commission Chairwoman Lisa Cupid has frequently defended both in public statements.

“What it comes down to is do we perceive the future is worth it?” she said before the vote in June. “We can do something that is transformational . . . it enhances our ability to serve our own citizens.”

Loud said in a social media post Monday that while he supports the current sales taxes to finance Cobb County government and Cobb County School District construction and maintenance projects, “this M-SPLOST, for public transportation is nothing like the others.”

The existing SPLOSTs have been approved since the late 1990s for shorter periods (typically four to six years), have committed project lists and citizen oversight committees.

If the Mobility SPLOST passes, he claimed on the Vote NO M-SPLOST Facebook page he created, that “future elected officials can make all sorts of changes and use these funds in all sorts of ways as there is no committed full list of how these [BILLION$ Lisa Cupid] will be spent.”

Among the proposed 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.

Loud claimed that nearly $300,000 of taxpayer money has been diverted for “an education campaign” to inform voters about the referendum, and that Cupid “pressured” Community Improvement Districts to spend around $260,000 on “education initiatives” for the tax.

The former figure is around $287,000 that’s being paid to Kimley-Horn, an Atlanta consulting firm, to build an informational web site for the tax and to hold open houses.

The latter reference includes around $100,000 in contributions by the Cumberland CID and around $110,000 by the Town Center CID, per the MDJ.

The county cannot officially make an endorsement on the tax, but a sentence on the SPLOST “overview” page states that “this initiative seeks to improve the county’s transit infrastructure with a focus on safety, flexibility, and reliability tailored to meet the specific needs of our growing community and local economy.”

More than 200 people have joined the Facebook page started by Loud and Carson, and some are fellow GOP elected officials and conservative activists.

Opposition also has come from the Cobb Taxpayer Association, which held a rally in East Cobb last month.

The Cobb Business Alliance, made up of companies in the construction industry, has also launched a website that it says is informational only.

However, the CBA sent out media and other invitations to its campaign kickoff in support of the tax, and that Cupid attended.

And the MDJ reported last week that a CBA poll shows that two-thirds of respondents don’t even know there’s a transit tax vote coming up.

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East Cobb restaurant update: Super Chix opens at Avenue

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The fast casual chicken franchise Super Chix opened its third location in Georgia Monday at Avenue East Cobb, the retail center announced.

As we noted earlier this year, the eatery is occupying the former Victoria’s Secret space (3,800 square feet) andthe franchisee is East Cobb resident Missy Newks.

The Texas-based company serves grilled chicken sandwiches (which the chain dubs “The Last True Chicken Sandwich”), hand-cut fries and frozen custards (menu here).

The flavor options for the chicken sandwiches, salads and tenders include Nashville Hot, Cheesy BBQ, Buffalo Ranch, Blackened Cajun, Crispy Avocado and Cordon Bleu.

In addition to the fries, Super Chix also serves fried pickles, and coleslaw and kids’ meals.

The frozen custards are available in cups, cold fusions, shakes and pints. Flavors include Strawberry Cheesecake, Cookies n’ Cream, Butterfinger, English Toffee, and Reese’s Peanut Buttercup.

Super Chix is the fourth restaurant/eatery to open at Avenue East Cobb since the retail center’s overhaul, joining Round Trip Brewing Co., Peach State Pizza and Press Waffle Co. The existing Tin Lizzy’s also expanded to include a game bar with food service from the main restaurant.

It’s also the latest fast-casual chicken eatery in what’s becoming a competitive market in East Cobb. In April, Howlin’ Willy’s, a hot-chicken concept from Willy’s Mexicana Grill, opened at Pine Straw Place.

Guthrie’s Chicken will be opening in a drive-through-only capacity at the intersection of Lower Roswell and Johnson Ferry roads. Construction work is nearing completion but a specific timetable hasn’t been announced.

Super Chix hours are daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and online ordering is available.

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Town Center Community to hold State of the District event

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Submitted information:Town Center Community to hold State of the District event

Town Center Community will host its third annual State of the District event on October 22 at 8 a.m. at the Governors Gun Club, located at 1005 Cobb Place Blvd. NW, in Kennesaw. This annual gathering brings together industry leaders, community members and key stakeholders to discuss the district’s growth and success, its vision for 2025 and to recognize the winners of the 2024 Townie Awards, which celebrate outstanding community leaders, developers and businesses in the Town Center area.

“The State of the District event offers businesses valuable insight into the strategic developments shaping our community’s economic landscape,” said Tracy Styf, Executive Director of Town Center Community. “By coming together, we can foster strong partnerships that will benefit the entire Town Center area for years to come.”

This year’s event will feature two panel discussions:

The World Stage Panel will explore the impact of Kennesaw State University joining Conference USA and Fifth Third Stadium’s selection as a training base for the 2026 World Cup. Panelists include:

  • Rachel Rogers, Vice President Sports Sales & Engagement of Cobb Sports Alliance
  • Randy Koporc, Regional President of Fifth Third Bank
  • Teddy Parrish, President & CIO of Parrish Capital

The Economic Drivers and Resilience Panel will examine how Town Center’s diverse industries contribute to economic resilience and development. Panelists include:

  • Ashley West, Regional Economic Development Manager of Georgia Power Economic Development
  • Mike Alexander, COO of Atlanta Regional Commission
  • Michael Davis, Co-founder and Partner of D&G Development Group

All proceeds from the State of the District event will go to the Lanie Shipp Hoover Fund, which supports future trail, park and greenspace projects in the Town Center area.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations and businesses to support the event. Current sponsors:

  • Gold Sponsors: Capital City Public Affairs, Cobb Travel & Tourism, Crane Elder Law Firm, Croy, Georgia Power Foundation, Son & Sons
  • Silver Sponsors: Arcadis, Cobb Chamber of Commerce, Cooper Carry, Council for Quality Growth, Dentons, DeNyse, Kennesaw State University, LGE Credit Union

Tickets and event sponsorships are available online at towncentercid.com/surveys-events

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