East Cobb Business

NE Cobb Business Association to honor school volunteers

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NE Cobb Business Association to honor school volunteers

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The Northeast Cobb Business Association will honor the volunteer leaders who support our local schools on Friday, Aug. 28 at its annual UPBEAT luncheon, a longstanding community event celebrating the people who dedicate their time and talents to East Cobb schools.

UPBEAT, which stands for United Partners Business & Education Advancing Together, will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Piedmont Church. Cobb County Commissioner JoAnn Birrell and Cobb County School Board members David Chastain and John Cristadoro are expected to attend, joining representatives from schools throughout East Cobb.

UPBEAT recognizes those working behind the scenes to strengthen local schools. Principals are invited to join NCBA in honoring their volunteer leaders such as PTSA, foundation, and booster club leaders.

“Teachers, administrators, and students alike will tell you that their schools would not thrive without the dedication of the parents who get involved,” said Neeahtima Dowdy, president of the Northeast Cobb Business Association.

“UPBEAT is our opportunity as a business community to say thank you, but it is also about strengthening the relationship between our schools and the businesses that serve and invest here.”

Local businesses sponsor the luncheon, allowing invited school representatives to attend as guests. Business sponsors also showcase their companies during the event, giving school leaders an opportunity to learn more about the local businesses supporting their schools.

The relationship is intentionally reciprocal: local businesses invest in East Cobb schools and their students, while school leaders, families and community members are encouraged to support the businesses that invest in them.

About the Northeast Cobb Business Association

The Northeast Cobb Business Association (NCBA) is a community-based organization bringing together businesses and professionals, nonprofits, schools, and civic leaders. NCBA works to strengthen the local business community through relationship-building, professional development, and partnerships that support the broader Northeast Cobb community.

NCBA hosts monthly business luncheons, networking and educational opportunities, and special programs throughout the year. UPBEAT reflects NCBA’s commitment to connecting local businesses with the schools and communities they serve.

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A year after fire, Chin Chin Chen restaurant nears reopening

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A year after fire, Chin Chin Chen restaurant nears reopening
Jasmine Chen’s loyal customers “have given me the power” as she reopens her restaurant. ECN photos.

Exactly 364 days after her restaurant was destroyed in a fire, Jasmine Chen will finally get to serve her customers again.

Next Monday, she’ll do a “soft opening” of her renamed and relocated Chin Chin Chen Asian Fusion restaurant, before holding a grand reopening and ribbon-cutting on Sept. 5.

It’s been a difficult and challenging year for Chen, whose ownership of Chin Chin on Johnson Ferry Road next to the Waffle House spanned 16 years.

It was her abiding passion—and not just a business—and where her three children practically grew up. As a single mother, the restaurant was her family’s sole source of income.

The fire broke out after 1 a.m., hours after she had gone home. Chen said she raced back to Chin Chin in her pajamas only to see fire crews and billowing smoke, and the charred outlines of the standalone building.

The roof had collapsed and firefighters fought the blaze for hours, well into the daylight.

“I had a hard time sleeping, for a month after that,” Chen said.

“Every day, I go to work. I woke up the second day and said, what do I do now? There was nothing to do. What can I do?

But Chen vowed early on that she would start over, no matter what.

The remains of the Chin Chin restaurant after a Sept. 2, 2025 fire.

She just didn’t know how that would come about, or what it would take.

“All of our memories have been here,” Chen says of the East Cobb community she calls home.

“That’s why we want to stay here.”

Finding a suitable location for her new restaurant took some time. After looking at several locations, by January she was able to secure a lease at what was a Zaxby’s at 3030 Johnson Ferry Road.

After that, it was a time-consuming task to renovate the interior of the 3,200-square-foot former fast-food restaurant—the old Chin Chin space was 4,000 square feet—and to carefully reappoint everything.

While the dining space is smaller, there is more ample parking at Chin Chin Chen, which fronts the Northeast Cobb YMCA.

Chen ordered furnishings, wallpaper, lighting and kitchen equipment that were imported from China, including dinner plates.

The dining room seats 80, and she’s waiting for a few more tables to arrive before the reopening.

The last few weeks have been hectic, with final inspections and permitting, but Chen is taking a deep breath of relief that she can get back to going what she loves the most.

Her family, friends and many patrons have done more than keep her spirits up.

“They have taken good care of me,” Chen says of the emotional support she’s received in the last year.

“They have given me the power. Right now, I feel so much power.”

Updating the menu

The name change reflects Chen’s desire to keep her restaurant venture independent, and to acknowledge changing tastes with some of her customer base.

The menu retains the classic Chinese fare that Chin Chin has served up for three decades, predating Chen’s ownership. The “Asian Fusion” refers to the addition of dumplings and ramen on the menu, due in large part to younger customers.

The homemade dumplings in particular, she says, “are very popular” with younger people, as are varieties of bubble tea and other tea-based specialties that are on the new menu.

They include everything from Boba milk tea to passion fruit green tea, while there will be a pork soup dumpling dish, as well as fried pork buns.

“We want to serve to any people,” Chen said.

Over the last year, she discovered that her new location is closer to a portion of her customer base, and says that many of them have told her they live off of Post Oak Tritt Road and Sewell Mill Road.

She said she can’t wait to see so many of them, especially since they have kept her going during an arduous time.

“They just gave me all the power,” she said.

During the soft opening (Sept. 1-5), Chin Chin Chen is offering customers 20 percent off their orders—the hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The grand reopening will include special entertainment and public officials will be on hand for the ribbon-cutting.

“Our restaurant has truly risen from the ashes,” Chen says.

Click the middle button below to see more photos.

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Cobb Chamber names KSU president as 2028 board chairwoman

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Cobb Chamber names KSU president as 2028 board chairwoman
(L-R): Sharon Mason, President & CEO of the Cobb Chamber, Pete Quinones, 2027 Cobb Chamber Chairman, Dr. Kat Schwaig, 2028 Cobb Chamber Chairwoman, and Melissa Cantrell, 2026 Cobb Chamber Chairwoman.

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The Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors has named Kathy “Kat” S. Schwaig, President of Kennesaw State University, as its 2028 Chairwoman of the Board.

Schwaig will succeed Pete Quinones, CEO of MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service, Inc., who begins his term as Chairman of the Board in 2027. Schwaig will start her term as Board Chairwoman in January 2028 and will serve as Board Chair-Elect in 2027.

“The Cobb Chamber plays a vital role in bringing together business, education, and community leaders to strengthen our region,” Schwaig said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and look forward to working alongside the Chamber’s outstanding Board, leadership, members, and partners to build on its strong foundation and create even greater opportunities for Cobb County.”

Schwaig’s ties to Kennesaw State span more than two decades of service, with a career path that has carried her from dean to provost and now to president — a role she has held since 2022 after first serving as interim president in 2021. She previously served as dean of the Michael J. Coles College of Business from 2012-19 and as provost and senior vice president for academic affairs from 2019-2021, facilitating KSU’s transition to a Carnegie-designated R2 doctoral research institution and placing it among an elite group of U.S. colleges and universities.

Today, Schwaig leads one of Georgia’s largest public universities, serving more than 50,000 students. Under her leadership, KSU launched the Taking Flight strategic plan and the FLIGHT student success program, introduced more than 50 new academic offerings, and invested significantly in academic and research infrastructure, including the state-of-the-art Robin and Doug Shore Innovation Center. Since 2022, KSU has nearly tripled its research expenditures and, in 2026, became a member of the Georgia Research Alliance. In athletics, Schwaig led the Owls’ transition to Conference USA in 2024, with KSU earning five conference championships to date. She also guided Kennesaw State through the public phase of The Campaign for KSU, the university’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, which surpassed its $200 million goal and secured the largest single gift in KSU history.

Schwaig is a longtime member and community partner of the Cobb Chamber and SelectCobb. She has served on the Chamber’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and SelectCobb Board since 2022. She chaired SelectCobb from 2024-25, served on the Cobb Chamber/SelectCobb Strategic Plan Task Force in 2022, participated in the Chamber’s Washington, D.C., Fly-In, and has been an active member of the Chairman’s Circle. She also led Kennesaw State’s relaunch of HatchBridge Incubator, in close partnership with the Cobb Chamber. HatchBridge has helped more than 290 startups raise over $37.4 million in follow on funding since 2023. Schwaig was a member of the 2013 Honorary Commanders class and previously served as a mentor in the Chamber’s mentoring program.

She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and previously served on boards for the Cobb Community Foundation, Mount Paran Christian School, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Cobb County, Junior Achievement of Georgia, Engage Scholarship Consortium, and the Alliance for Children Everywhere.

Schwaig was named to Georgia Trend magazine’s 100 Most Influential Georgians list in 2025 and 2026 and was recognized among Atlanta magazine’s Atlanta 500 in 2026. Her honors also include the Town Center Community Citizen of the Year Award in 2025, the Cobb Chamber’s Mack Henderson Public Service Award in 2023, Atlanta magazine’s Women Making a Mark Award in 2015, the Oscar Burnett Award of Distinguished Achievement in Business from the Morris Brown College Foundation in 2013, and the Cobb Executive Women’s Glass Ceiling Award in 2013.

A native of central Texas, Schwaig holds a BBA in Accounting and an MBA in Information Systems from Baylor University, a Master of Liberal Arts from Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Biblical and Theological Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Information Systems from the University of South Carolina.

“Kat has been an extraordinary partner to the Cobb Chamber and a respected leader in our community for decades,” said Sharon Mason, President and CEO of the Cobb Chamber. “Her vision, collaborative leadership, and deep commitment to workforce and economic development, innovation, partnerships and entrepreneurship make her exceptionally well suited to lead our Board. I look forward to working alongside her as we continue to strengthen our community together.”

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Ga. Secretary of State to hold small business seminar at KSU

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Submitted information:Ga. Secretary of State to hold small business seminar at KSU

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is excited to announce FIN FIT (Financially Fit) “Fearless Fundraising for Your Small Business” event, which will be held on Monday, September 14, from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at KSU Center-Room 400, Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Secretary of State’s Office is proud to partner with Kennesaw State University – Coles College of Business, Cobb Chamber, and UGA SBDC at Kennesaw State University for this small business event.

This event is free and open to all Georgians. A free continental breakfast and workbook are included with registration. This event is for educational purposes only; no products or services will be sold.

Starting a business and making it profitable is challenging. Secretary Raffensperger is dedicated to empowering Georgians to acquire the skills needed to start and grow their businesses.

Join us for a powerful event designed to equip participants with real-world insight and actionable tools.

  • Panel Discussion with insights and resources to grow and sustain a small business.

  • Hands-On Learning Lab to help sharpen participants’ strategy and move their business forward. Participants will learn about the Invest Georgia Exemption (IGE), a powerful tool for Georgians looking to raise capital to fund their new venture or grow their already thriving business.

  • Network with fellow entrepreneurs, community leaders, and growth-minded professionals.

“Starting and growing a small business takes more than a great idea; it takes knowledge, preparation, and access to the right resources,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “This event will give Georgia entrepreneurs the practical tools necessary to raise capital, grow their business, and turn their goals into a reality.”

The first part of the event will be a panel discussion moderated by Donna Lowry, award-winning journalist. Panelists will include Antonio Barrios, Senior Business Consultant, UGA SBDC at Kennesaw State University; Marguerite Pressley Davis, Growth-Stage CFO | Angel Investor, Founder, Finance Savvy CEO®; Nickolas (Nick) Downey, Founder and CEO of MerchLogix, Inc., Angel Investor; Jeanne’ Mack, Vice President, Small Business Banker, SouthState Bank; and Carrie Roeger, CEO, Rally Point Grille Franchising.

The second part of the event will be a hands-on learning lab, with a free workbook for each attendee, led by Marguerite Pressley Davis, Founder & CEO of Finance Savvy CEO®, Angel Investor & Small Business Advisor.

FIN FIT is a financial empowerment seminar series hosted by Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger as part of his multi-faceted financial literacy effort and is administered through the Securities and Charities divisions of the Office of the Secretary of State. These free programs feature industry leaders who discuss resources to help attendees increase their knowledge of money, their relationship to it, and financial issues and strategies for growing their wealth.

The office of the Secretary of State invites all Georgians to attend these free, informative events.

To register for this free event, click here.

To learn more about FIN FIT, click here.

To review and download our free financial resources, click here.

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East Cobb students named to Cobb Youth Leadership class

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Twelve students attending high schools in East Cobb have been named to the 2026-27 class of Cobb Youth Leadership, “a development program sponsored by the Leadership Cobb Alumni Association and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta that focuses on developing leadership skills through interactive participation,” according to a release from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.Cobb Chamber annual golf tournament

CYL was created by the Chamber in 1989 and the selected students are high school juniors who began the application process as sophomores. Around 60 students are chosen each year, and here’s what they do during the school year:

“Through six evening programs during the course of the school year participants in the CYL program are introduced to local, state, and national leaders. They also receive information on the responsibility, ethics, and tools for effective leadership, as well as potential career paths for after graduation.”

The following CYL class members are from East Cobb:

  • Johnson Ferry Christian Academy: Brooks Baughman
  • Lassiter High School: Niyamat Kaur, Grace Qian
  • Pope High School: Callie Cochran, Maret Dickerson
  • Sprayberry High School: Alex Duke
  • Walton High School: Ryan Ghiai, Colton Green, Zach Pila
  • Wheeler High School: Ally Dilbeck, Cristina Moldoveanu, Arnav Nimmagadda, Gayatri Srivastava

Cobb Youth Leadership also is sponsored by  Kennesaw State University, Maranie Brown and Family, Marietta Wrecker, and Six Flags Over Georgia.

For more information about Cobb Youth Leadership, contact Katie Guice at (770) 859-2334 or [email protected].

 

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East Cobb resident named manager of Delta Community branch

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Submitted information and photo:

Delta Community is pleased to announce that Greg Fugate has been named branch manager of its Marietta Branch at 1205 Johnson Ferry Road in East Cobb County. The branch’s previous manager, Kara Buckner, has been appointed to lead the credit union’s Marietta branch on Dallas Highway.

Fugate is a longtime resident of East Cobb County and began his career at Delta Community in 2022. He joined the credit union as a Hybrid Member Service Agent at the Johnson Ferry branch, before being promoted to head teller. He later served as assistant branch manager at the credit union’s Alpharetta branch and now returns to Johnson Ferry with a strong understanding of the branch, its members and community.

“I began my Delta Community career at this branch, so it is very rewarding to now have the opportunity to lead it,” Fugate said. “As a proud ‘East Cobber’ for more than three decades, it is truly a privilege to have community members trust me and my team with their banking needs.”

Fugate looks forward to deepening relationships throughout East Cobb and partnering with local schools and organizations through Delta Community’s financial literacy and education initiatives.

The Johnson Ferry branch is one of three Delta Community locations serving Cobb County. Together, the branches help serve more than 40,000 members who live throughout the county.

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Peachtree Art Center to hold first anniversary celebration

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Submitted information:

Peachtree Art Center is celebrating one amazing year! Come share in this special milestone on Sunday, August 23, 12-5pm. If you’ve driven by, saw us on social media, or heard about the center and wondered what we offer, now’s your chance to check it out. Come and enjoy:

  • Original artwork available for purchase from talented local artists
  • A chance to explore the center, meet our instructors and exhibitors, and discover the many classes and workshops we offer
  • Free mini-classes*
  • Food & prizes

Thank you for making our first year so special, and we look forward to another year of providing creative opportunities to the greater Atlanta area and beyond. See you on August 23!

2601 Sandy Plains Rd, Marietta, Ga 30066

PeachtreeArtCenter.com – 678-457-3872

*Pre-registration required for mini-classes, see website.

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Merchants Walk Shopping Center sold to private equity firm

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Merchants Walk Shopping Center sold to private equity firm

After redeveloping Merchants Walk Shopping Center a decade and a half ago, South Carolina-based commercial real estate developer EDENS is selling the East Cobb retail center.

The buyer is Sterling Organization, a private equity real estate investment firm based in West Palm Beach, Fla.

According to a statement released by Sterling, the purchase price is $93.2 million, and was made on behalf of Sterling’s $600 million equity institutional value-add fund, Sterling Value Add Partners IV (SVAP IV).

“Merchants Walk is exactly the type of asset we are targeting on behalf of our SVAP IV fund. The property is well-located, attracts an affluent customer base, and maintains a deep roster of high-performing national tenants with long operating histories at the center,” Jordan Fried, Principal at Sterling Organization, said in the statement.

“We have had the pleasure of transacting with EDENS as both a buyer and a seller on many occasions and appreciate their professionalism and collaborative approach, which results in smooth and efficient transactions.”

The statement didn’t indicate what plans Sterling may have for the 271,992-square foot shopping center anchored by Whole Foods and Kohl’s.

Merchants Walk (1289 Johnson Ferry Road) attracts more than 3 million customers a year, according to the statement.

The Georgia Theater Company Stadium Cinema, Marshall’s, PetSmart, Office Depot and Old Navy are among the national tenants, along with local boutiques and restaurants.

EDENS rebuilt Merchants Walk in the early 2010s, with Whole Foods opening in 2011, and paid to have a Cobb County Public Library branch relocated to Parkaire Landing to what is now called the East Cobb Library.

The old Merchants Walk Library site is close to Seed Kitchen and Bar, and other restaurants include Stem Wine Bar, Seed’s sister restaurant, and Marlow’s Tavern.

Mirko Pasta closed recently and the signage has been taken down, following the closure of the adjacent Duck Donuts last year, and which still sits vacant. There’s also 17,273 square feet of available retail space near Marshall’s which opened in 2023 after relocating from the East Lake Shopping Center.

Sterling invests in a number of retail shopping centers across the county in a variety of funds. Its properties in the Atlanta area include Five Forks Crossing and Marketplace at Buckhead in the city of Atlanta and Presidential Commons in Snellville.

According to a Merchants Walk directory on the Sterling website, an A & J Jewelers is coming soon to the former Spenga fitness salon.

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East Cobb Foodie Scene: Sunday BBQ and mimosas; Taste news

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East Cobb Foodie Scene: Sunday BBQ and mimosas; Taste news

Ever since opening at the Piedmont Commons Shopping Center (1050 East Piedmont Road) more than a decade ago, Righteous ‘Que has been closed on Sundays.

That’s about to change as the restaurant will be open for a few hours each Sunday, starting this coming week.

The Sunday lunch hours are from 11:30-3:30 p.m.

The change is the latest evolution of a Southern barbecue spot that’s had success what had been a tricky location for restaurants.

Righteous ‘Que was started by Patrick Verzone as a home cookout/catering effort, initially for friends, family and church members.

He opened up a brick-and-mortar space at Piedmont Commons in 2012, then moved into larger space in the same retail center that had had sporadic tenets in a number of food genres.

The former Righteous ‘Que space is now occupied by Belen de la Cruz Empanadas and Pastries.

In a video posted this week, Verzone said that “as we get closer to football season, we’ll be throwing in some wings.”

Serving Sunday Mimosas

Two longstanding East Cobb restaurants that specialize in Sunday service—they’re breakfast and brunch spots—will soon be offering mimosas to their customers.

Eggs Upp Grill (4401 Shallowford Road) and J. Christophers at the Woodlawn Square Shopping Center on Johnson Ferry Road recently had to get county approval to do so, since they didn’t have pouring licenses.

The process takes several steps, and in the case of both restaurants, started with initial denials by the Cobb Business License Divison.

That’s because both establishments are located within 300 feet of homes, schools, libraries, parks and places of worship—the county ordinance’s distance requirement—and quite a few restaurants have had to appeal those denials as a result.

The Cobb License Review Board approved the Eggs Up and J. Christopher’s requests for beer, wine and Sunday alcohol sales, and the Cobb Board of Commissioners recently upheld those approvals by consent.

The process has become standard and routine, but it’s also cumbersome for restaurant owners.

In addition to their applications, they also have to fill out extensive questionnaires stating whether their serving alcohol will have an “adverse effect” on those homes, schools, libraries, parks and places of worship.

The restaurants also have to explain how they plan to train employees to serve alcohol, if they’ve provided written policies and procedures for doing so, the percentage breakdown between food and alcohol sales and more (36 questions are asked).

County officials also compile a list of nearby establishments that serve alcohol as the applications are considered.

In the case of Eggs Up, its ownership told the county it’s being required to serve mimosas at the behest of the company.

That will start after a remodeling project that will keep the restaurant closed for at least another week.

The 20th Taste of East Cobb festival: A special celebrationSterling Estates serves up its version of a Philly cheesesteak at the Taste of East Cobb.

2027 Taste of East Cobb date

Organizers of the Taste of East Cobb (Walton Band Parent Association) announced last week that the 2027 event will be held earlier than usual.

The festival will take place April 17, 2027, at its familiar venue at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church.

The Taste of East Cobb traditionally has been held the first Saturday in May, a week after the much larger Taste of Marietta.

The new date for the Taste of East Cobb—two weeks earlier than usual—will now be a week ahead of the Marietta Square festival, which is set for April 25, 2027.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Kroger unveils 2 new store renovations

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Kroger unveils 2 new store renovations
The renovated Shallowford Falls Kroger will have a grand reopening event on July 24.

While the expansion continues at its Parkaire Landing store, Kroger is putting the finishing touches on renovations at two other stores in East Cobb.

Last week the newly renovated store at the Sandy Plains Centre (2960 Shallowford Road) reopened to the public.

The $1.95 million renovation includes a new Murray’s Cheese shop and sushi island, updated dairy, bakery and produce departments, and additional interior and exterior infrastructure improvements.

The event drew local public officials and included recognitions of Mountain View Elementary School, McCleskey Middle School and Lassiter High School, Kroger’s Partners in Education, as well as Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste partner, the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

On July 24, a similar event will take place at the Kroger at Shallowford Falls Shopping Center (3162 Johnson Ferry Road), which is undergoing a $1.1 million renovation project.

That store will be getting a new floral department, a new Murray’s Cheese shop and updated dairy, bakery, produce meat and seafood departments.

Kroger’s Partners in Education at that store are Shallowford Falls Elementary School, Hightower Trail Middle School and Pope High School.

Those Kroger stores remained open during their renovations, as is the Parkaire Landing location, which began in the spring.

That’s a $23 million project that will vastly expand Kroger’s space there from 59,000 square feet to 85,000 square feet—almost as large as the Kroger Superstore at Terrell Mill MarketPlace on Powers Ferry Road.

The project also includes the construction of a Kroger fuel center, an expanded produce department and an enlarged deli counter, a full-service Murray’s cheese counter and the addition of a sushi culinary kiosk.

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East Cobb tech entrepreneur publishes book on how to use AI

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Submitted information:East Cobb tech entrepreneur publishes book on how to use AI

East Cobb resident and technology entrepreneur Ken Leebow has come out of retirement to write his latest book, 100 Incredible Things You Can Do With AI, which is already off to a strong start.

With artificial intelligence dominating the news, Leebow’s new book is designed to make AI practical, understandable, and useful for everyday people and businesses. He is also giving presentations on AI, including his featured program, “Building Your AI Dream Team,” where he demonstrates an AI product he calls “AI on Steroids.”

Leebow is also pleased to announce that he has established a veterans scholarship program connected to the book.

For additional information, contact Ken Leebow or visit Leebow.com.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Sunny Brook Stables to relocate

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Sunny Brook Stables to relocateSunny Brook Stables has been operating on five acres on Roswell Road near Avenue East Cobb and  will be moving to larger space in North Fulton.

Sunny Brook Stables, which offers horse riding lessons and other equestrian training, is leaving East Cobb.

Dr. Grania Gothard Holman, the owner and founder of the five-acre facility on Roswell Road east of Johnson Ferry Road, made the announcement Sunday that Sunny Brook will be relocating soon to North Fulton.

“While our address is changing, the heart of Sunny Brook remains exactly the same,” Holman said in a message on Sunny Brook’s Facebook page.

“For years, families have trusted us to introduce children to horses through thoughtful riding instruction, horsemanship, camps, and a community built on kindness, confidence, and stewardship. Our new home allows that vision to grow.”

She said Sunny Brook will be occupying expanded facilities at Fortitude Farm, a horseback training center in the Alpharetta-Milton area.

Sunny Brook also operates Heart Horse Retirement, Rehab & Rescue, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to the care of older horses, and which also will be making the move.

“We are incredibly grateful to every family, volunteer, supporter, and friend who has helped shape Sunny Brook into what it is today,” Holman said. “Now, we look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces as we begin this next chapter together.”

Sunny Brook and Heart Horse will be reopening in August, she said, and enrollment is open.

“Although the address is changing, the values are not,” Sunny Brook Stables owner Dr. Grania Gothard Holman said.

Sunny Brook has leased the five acres at Roswell Road, located between a subdivision and East Cobb Presbyterian Church and close to Avenue East Cobb.

The land was recently put up for sale as a residential lot with an asking price of $3 million, and is already under contract, according to its MLS listing.

Holman told East Cobb News that the new location for Sunny Brook will provide “additional riding space, and a covered arena that will allow for more consistent lessons throughout Georgia’s changing weather. Most importantly, it gives us the opportunity to continue building the safe, family-centered riding program that has always been at the heart of Sunny Brook.”

She said Sunny Brook and the non-profit will be able to “grow together” and expand beyond its focus on riding lessons for youngsters.

“The next chapter will also include expanded opportunities for adult riders, clinics, retreats, educational experiences, and community involvement, while continuing to support the mission of Red Heart Horse,” Holman said.

“Although the address is changing, the values are not.”

Sunny Brook will continue to offer one-on-one, small-group and private riding instruction, with an emphasis on horse care and helping riders build meaningful relationships with the animals.

“Our vision has always been about more than teaching people to ride,” Holman said. “It has been about creating a place where horses and people both have the opportunity to grow. Some horses need retirement, rehabilitation, or rescue. Some children discover confidence for the first time. Some adults find their way back to horses after years away. This new home gives us the opportunity to continue serving all of them.”

Leadership Cobb 2027 Class announced by Cobb Chamber

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Submitted information:Cobb Chamber annual golf tournament

Leadership Cobb, the Cobb Chamber’s premier leadership development program, has selected 60 new participants for the 2026-2027 class.

Founded in 1983, Leadership Cobb brings together diverse business and community leaders for a 10-month journey focused on personal and professional growth.

The program accomplishes this through leadership training, teambuilding, and educational experiences highlighting our community’s greatest success stories and most significant ongoing challenges.

The 2027 Class:

  • Coleman Alford, Atlanta Braves Baseball Club
  • Rhonda Anderson, Cobb County Sheriff’s Office
  • Tee Anderson, Capstone Communities, LLC
  • Norman Barnett, Magistrate Court of Cobb County
  • Kayla Bedwell, CROFT & Associates
  • Trevor Beemon, Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society, Inc.
  • Cole Blackwell, Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority
  • Tara Boockholdt, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
  • Barbie Brown, The Brown Agency
  • Cassandra Brown, City of Mableton
  • Patina Brown, City of Marietta
  • Shaneak Brown, Comcast
  • Keynun Campbell, Marietta Sixth Grade Academy
  • Cory Chipman, Freeman Mathis & Gary LLP
  • Jessica Coane, Cobb Travel & Tourism
  • Natalie Dale, Georgia Department of Transportation
  • Naceo Denney, Georgia Power
  • Alice Dondelinger, Pinnacle Financial Partners
  • Jason Doss, The Doss Firm, LLC
  • Anita Douglas Murphy, Status: Home
  • Chandler Fincher, Southeastern Engineering, Inc (SEI)
  • Barbara Garner, Circles Cobb
  • Anna Goolsby, Cobb Chamber
  • Edrick Harris, Prestwick Development Company
  • Matt Heather, Savant Technologies
  • Zephaniah Horton, Lockheed Martin
  • Chaundra Johnson, TK Elevator
  • Michelle Jorda, United Way of Greater Atlanta
  • Solomon Jordan, Gas South
  • Lisa-Ruth Karnes, Cobb Community Foundation
  • Jonathan Kemp, Cobb & Douglas Public Health
  • Jennifer Kilgo, Cox Communications
  • Natalie Knight, Impact Public Affairs, LLC
  • Kim Kranzlein, Cobb County School District
  • Laura Kraus, Marietta Schools Foundation
  • Audrey Lewis, Gregory, Doyle, Calhoun and Rogers
  • Drew McCollum, Ameris Bank
  • Scott McNally, Croy Engineering
  • Anand Mehta, Stand Up Family Medicine
  • Eric Mohrman, Smyrna Fire Department
  • Amy Mollohan, Ansley Real Estate
  • Matt Moore, Atlanta United FC
  • Nwakaego Nkumeh Walker, Kennesaw State University
  • Heather Pence, Chattahoochee Technical College
  • Ben Perkins, Propylaeum Systems, LLC
  • Ben Peterson, Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC
  • Terrance Pryor, Pryor Innovations, LLC
  • Tara Riddle, Cobb County Probate Court
  • Carlos Rodriguez, Kilgore & Rodriguez LLC
  • Karl Sadler, Northside Hospital
  • Miranda Sanders, Walton Communities
  • Carlos Searcy, The Los and Lisha Legacy Foundation
  • Slade Sellers, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard
  • Angie Smith, Mission 1:27
  • Jodi Taylor, Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC
  • Kristen Trice, Wellstar Health System
  • Fred Tull, JE Dunn Construction
  • Brent Turner, Calvary Children’s Home
  • Amy Welchel, Welchel Enterprise
  • Tim Willis, Summit Heating and Air

Andy Gaines, Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, and Tricia Newton, Waterworks Atlanta, will be co-chairs for the 2026-2027 program year. Daniel Cummings, City of Marietta, and Rachel Rogers, Cobb Travel & Tourism, will be the vice co-chairs for the 2026-2027 program year. This year’s class theme is “Me | Us | We.”

The Leadership Cobb class of 2027’s Yearlong Presenting Sponsor is Kennesaw State University Coles College of Business MBA Programs; Legacy Sponsors, CDH Partners, Cobb Travel & Tourism, Accounting Consultants of Cobb, Mauldin & Jenkins, Johnson & Alday, Croy Engineering, and Genuine Parts Company; and Champion Sponsors, Corient, Brasfield & Gorrie, and Atlanta Braves. For more information about Leadership Cobb, contact Kai Lawrence at 770-859-2346 or [email protected].

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Cobb Chamber accepting nominations for Citizens of the Year

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Butch Carter named 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Butch Carter, owner of the Honest-1 Auto Care Center, was the 2025 East Cobb Citizen of the Year.

Submitted information:

The Cobb Chamber is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards. The Cobb Chamber, in partnership with cities, business associations and various civic partners throughout the community, come together each year to select and recognize outstanding, service-minded individuals across Cobb County. These citizens are chosen for their definable, exceptional deeds, with which he or she has made their community a better place to live.

These awards are presented as a part of the Cobb Chamber’s Area Council programs, and will be presented to individuals in Acworth, Austell, Cumberland, East Cobb, Kennesaw, Mableton, Marietta, Powder Springs, Smyrna, Town Center and West Cobb.

Nominations are now open through Friday, August 28 at https://tinyurl.com/mtexbjfj. Thank you Presenting Sponsor, Capital City Bank. For more information on the Citizen of the Year Awards, contact Katie Guice at 770-859-2334 or [email protected]. 

About the Cobb Chamber

At the Cobb Chamber, we believe in the power of ambition. Through our wealth of programming and partnerships, we unite the region’s most innovative, informed, and determined people so that they can achieve more. And through our advocacy and initiatives, we ensure that our county is a healthy place to do business. While our members span industry, background, and experience, we share a common desire: to see Cobb County flourish. For more information, visit www.cobbchamber.org.

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New East Cobb t-shirt store fundraising for homeless students

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A new Big Frog custom t-shirt store opened recently in East Cobb at the Pavilions at East Lake Shopping Center (2100 Roswell Road, Suite 2186).New East Cobb t-shirt store fundraising for homeless students

In lieu of a traditional ribbon-cutting, owners Ben and Lydia Olu-Harding launched a fundraising campaign to assist homeless students in the area.

The “Room for Everyone” campaign thus far has raised more than $2,000 out of a targeted goal of $10,000, through sales of t-shirts at the store.

Several hundred local students are homeless, according to the campaign, which will designate portions of shirt sales as proceeds for those students in the Wheeler High School community.

The Olu-Hardings are partnering with Grace Church Marietta and four local ministries—Family Promise, Simple Needs, The Table on Delk, and Garments of Grace.

Last weekend, they activated the campaign, and the shirt sale proceeds will continue through the end of June.

You can go by the store or purchase shirts online to benefit the campaign.

On their Facebook page, Lydia Olu-Harding said “this is why we chose Big Frog as our leap into small business ownership . . . Immediate community impact driven by our business. Proud and honored to join forces with Grace Marietta to make a difference right in our backyard.”

She also said that “if you are thinking you don’t really need another t-shirt but you want to support our cause, your shirt can be donated to Garments of Grace to help the same community that needs an extra hand.”

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Merchants Exchange LA Fitness to close

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Merchants Exchange LA Fitness to close

Several signs are taped near the entrance bearing the messages we’ve heard in recent days from several readers: The LA Fitness gym at Merchants Exchange (4400 Roswell Road) is closing as of July 20.

There wasn’t a reason given for the closure, but the signs addressed to members said they can use any other LA Fitness location, and directed them to the Sprayberry Square location (2550 Sandy Plains Road).

There’s also an LA Fitness in East Cobb at 1453 Terrell Mill Road.

East Cobb News has left a message with LA Fitness seeking more information about the Merchants Exchange closing.

LA Fitness is the second major tenant to leave that retail center recently; Dance Stop Studios closed in May after being in business for more than 50 years, due to the owners’ retirement.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Mezza Luna to become Trattoria Bella

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Mezza Luna to become Trattoria Bella
Daniele Furfaro and his wife Bella have received a variety of honors in the three years they’re run Mezza Luna in East Cobb.

At the end of May, Mezza Luna owner Daniele Furfaro announced his restaurant at the Pavilions at East Lake Shopping Center will be changing names and getting a menu make-over as well.

What he had rebranded Mezza Luna Furfaro Italian Restaurant to distinguish it from the original Mezza Luna restaurant in Smyrna will soon be known as Trattoria Bella.

“We are changing names because we don’t want be confused about the other Mezza Luna,” Furfaro told East Cobb News. “And plus, we going to update the menu and bar drinks and decorate over the restaurant.”

The changes will take place gradually over the summer, and the restaurant (2100 Roswell Road, Suite 2198) is remaining open.

Bella Furfaro, who like her husband is a native of Italy, is the namesake of the rebrand, and she oversaw Mezza Luna’s recent dining room upgrade.

In an East Cobb News sponsored post in February, Furfaro explained that he added his name to the restaurant because diners thought the two spots were still had the same owners. He was originally a partner in the East Cobb business before becoming its owner in 2023.

The Furfaros also have been busy moving their family, which includes two daughters, to East Cobb after living in Woodstock.

“Mezza Luna Pasta & Seafood remains your neighborhood Italian table in Marietta: handmade pastas, seafood, wine, cocktails, and service that makes dinner feel personal,” the restaurant noted on its website. “Trattoria Bella is the next chapter, carrying the same spirit into a refreshed experience” that is “a subtle rebrand inspired by the same family passion and a more elevated evening out.”

In May, Mezza Luna sponsored a table at the Taste of East Cobb for the first time, and won the Best Taste award.

Furfaro has been teasing to the rebrand with short videos on the restaurant’s new Facebook page, and on Thursday the soft opening continues with a five-course wine dinner, “An Evening of Coastal Elegance.”

New pop-up farmer’s markets

After more than three years of home delivery of fresh fruits and vegetables (we featured them here in 2022), an East Cobb produce business is giving shoppers a chance to enjoy a retail operation once again.

Holland Botanical, which delivers to the greater East Cobb area on Tuesdays for advance orders only, recently started a pop-up market on the weekends.

It takes place Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parking lot of Jackie’s Fine Wine and Spirits (3140 Johnson Ferry Road), and during the week publishes the lineup of available items.

Holland Botanical originally began as a pop-up in the nearby Shallowford Falls Shopping Center, then switched to delivery only during COVID.

Coming this Friday, the Mabry Farm market opens daily from dawn to dusk (4480 Wesley Chapel Road), featuring blackberries, blueberries and apples grown on the premises. Later in the summer, they expect to have tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers avaiable.

Payment is via a cash deposit box at the top of the orchard, or by Venmo.

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East Cobb Chin Chin restaurant relocating; Chicago’s closes

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East Cobb Chin Chin restaurant relocating; Chicago's closes

Several months after its building was destroyed in a fire, the owners of the Chin Chin Chinese restaurant in East Cobb are in the process of relocating.

Chin Chin Chen Asian Fusion will be opening in the former Zaxby’s space at 3030 Johnson Ferry Road, near the Northeast Cobb YMCA and Walmart.

The premises is still being renovated, with a construction dumpster located near the front. There’s no further information available about when the restaurant will open; East Cobb News has left a message with Qing Yun Chen, the applicant for the relocated business.

According to Cobb County business license information, Chin Chin Chen applied for an alcohol license in April. Cobb property tax records also indicate that the building was purchased in February by Yung Heng LLC, an entity with an address the same as Chen’s.

Chin Chin had operated for nearly three decades in a building on Johnson Ferry Road near Parkaire Landing that caught fire last September and was severely damaged. An online fundraiser begun by Sabrina Gao, daughter of co-owner Jasmine Chen, raised several thousand dollars as the family vowed to rebuild.

Chicago's Restaurant

Chicago’s closes

Not far from the Chin Chin Chen site another longstanding East Cobb restaurant has apparently closed for good.

Chicago’s Steaks and Seafood, which was open for more than 35 years in various locations, closed its doors on Saturday at the Shallowford Crossing Shopping Center (4401 Shallowford Road at Johnson Ferry).

Social media messages in recent weeks speculated about the closing, especially after Chicago’s received a failing health inspection in March, The restaurant later received a ‘B’ score on a follow-up, with ownership acknowledging the issues but saying they had all been addressed.

After that, Chicago’s regularly updated its social media channels to reflect menu changes and live music acts, but did not indicate anything about closing.

Its last Facebook post on May 23 promoted live entertainment. A message on Chicago’s Google listing indicates it’s closed temporarily, but there are no signs on the exterior of the restaurant.

East Cobb News has left multiple messages with Chicago’s management seeking information but has not received a response.

Chicago’s was a popular venue for upscale dining in East Cobb and with live entertainment and cocktails at a speakeasy lounge.

Ownership has changed hands twice since 2017, with the latest acquisition in 2022.

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The Wig Dr. receives American Express ‘shop small’ grant

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The Wig Dr. receives American Express 'shop small' grant

The Wig Dr. Boutique and Mastectomy Center, an East Cobb business that provides wigs and related post-mastectomy care and services for cancer patients, is a recipient of an American Express “shop small” grant for small businesses.

The grants are for $20,000 and help businesses “grow, innovate and support their local communities,” according to an American Express release.

The grant program, done in conjunction with Main Street America, an economic development and historic preservation organization, is providing $10 million in grants to 250 small businesses to honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this summer.

The Wig Dr. (website) is owned by Dr. Erica Gamble, who said the grant will “help us expand our Mobile Confidence Care Unit, bringing wigs, mastectomy products, fittings, and compassionate care directly to underserved communities. For many clients facing cancer treatment, hair loss, or recovery after surgery, transportation and access can be major barriers. This investment will help us meet people where they are and provide meaningful support, education, and confidence-restoring care directly in their communities.”

She said that “our mission has always been about more than wigs or products. It’s about restoring dignity, confidence, and hope during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life. Support from the Amex Shop Small Grants Program will allow us to deepen our impact across the community and continue showing women and families that they are seen, supported, and never alone in their journey.”

The Wig Dr. is located at 4939 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 202.

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Your business has a story—let East Cobb News tell it!

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At East Cobb News, storytelling is what we do. Every day for nearly nine years now, we have proudly told the stories that are important to East Cobb residents on a variety of subjects, to keep them updated on what’s happening in the community.Your business has a story—let East Cobb News tell it!

But our storytelling mission includes letting readers know about the small and local business owners in East Cobb who form the backbone of our community.

East Cobb’s a big place, and there’s a lot of competition for customers and clients in almost every kind of business.

There are also so many ways to get your message out, and it can be bewildering to sort it all out.

Business owners have to wear a lot of hats, and marketing their businesses can be a challenge.

At East Cobb News, we’d love to tell your story to East Cobb’s most engaged audience. We offer a variety of digital advertising products—display, newsletter and sponsored posts—that effectively and affordably tell your story.

If you want to let people know who you are, and distinguish yourself from the competition, hit the “yes” button below, fill in your e-mail address and we’ll get back to you promptly.

We’d love to hear your story, so we can tell it to the rest of East Cobb.

At East Cobb News, we want to help you tell your story and Discover the Power of Local!


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