New Georgia gubernatorial candidate to run Super Bowl ad

Republican Rick Jackson, who announced his campaign this week for Georgia governor, has purchased advertising time during the Super Bowl game on Sunday.New Georgia gubernatorial candidate to run Super Bowl ad

The 30-second ad (you can watch it below) references his childhood growing up in public housing and in foster care to becoming a self-made billionaire as the CEO of Jackson Health Care.

A longtime supporter of President Donald Trump, Jackson said in the ad that “like President Trump, I don’t owe anybody anything.”

He pledged in the ad that Georgia would lead in criminal deportations of illegal immigrants if he’s elected and advocates cutting the state income tax rate in half and freezing property taxes.

Jackson’s priorities also include stopping “woke ideology” and ending reverse discrimination and supporting children in foster care.

In announcing his campaign earlier this week (his campaign website can be found here), Jackson said he was putting $50 million of his own money into his campaign account, including an initial $40 million advertising blitz to introduce himself to the public.

The Super Bowl is the most expensive advertising window in American television. While national ad rates for Sunday’s game between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks are estimated to cost an average $8 million for a 30-second spot, local rates are lower.

According to ALM Corp., a marketing agency, Super Bowl rates in markets like Atlanta could cost $300,000 and $600,000 for 30 seconds, and the same time slot typically costs from $50,000 to $300,000 in smaller and mid-tier markets.

The surprise entry by Jackson—who has never sought public office before—crowds an already loaded Republican battle to succeed Gov. Brian Kemp. That field includes Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and Attorney General Chris Carr.

In announcing his campaign Wednesday, Jackson called Raffensperger a “Judas” for not bowing to Trump’s demands to find more votes in the 2020 Georgia presidential election.

Jackson called the Georgia political establishment a “cartel” that he intends to break up.

Although he donated $1 million to Trump’s campaigns, the president has endorsed Jones.

On the Democratic side, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, former State Sen. Jason Esteves, former Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan and former DeKalb County CEO and ex-Georgia Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond are among the candidates vying in the May 19 primary.

 

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U.S. Rep. Loudermilk not seeking re-election to Congress

Congressman Barry Loudermilk, whose 11th District in Georgia includes East Cobb, announced Wednesday he won’t be seeking re-election.

Ga. Congress members respond to ' One Big Beautiful Bill'
U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk

He issued a statement on his Congressional website as well as social media accounts saying that “while serving my constituents in Congress ranks among my greatest honors, being a husband, a father, and a grandfather holds even greater importance to me; and at this time, I wish to spend more dedicated time with my family.”

Loudermilk, 62, a Republican serving his sixth term in a conservative district, is a strong ally of President Donald Trump, but the narrow GOP majority in the U.S. House could be in jeopardy in 2026 midterm elections.

He is the 29th incumbent Republican in the House who is leaving Congress, and the fourth sitting member from the Georgia delegation not seeking re-election.

Loudermilk had been serving as chairman of a Republican-led subcommittee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 invasion of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters as the Electoral College was meeting to certify the 2020 presidential election.

In 2024, Loudermilk won the general election by 34 percent. Another Republican has previously announced for the 11th District seat, Chris Mora, a local party activist from Pickens County. Several Democrats have announced in what is expected to be a GOP-leaning seat.

The 11th District is one of the most conservative in Georgia and in addition to East Cobb includes western Cherokee County, as well as Bartow, Gordon and Pickens counties.

The Georgia Congressional primaries will be May 19. Candidate qualifying takes place from March 2-6.

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Cobb students earn national honors at 4-H championships

Cobb students earn national honors at 4-H championships

Submitted information and photo:

Four Cobb County high school students earned top national honors after representing Cobb 4-H and Georgia 4-H at the 4-H Family and Consumer Science National Championship and Conference in San Antonio, Texas.

Prayushi Padhi (Campbell High School), Aarsheya Gunjal (Sprayberry High School), Naitik Maheshwari (Wheeler High School), and Shubham Badve (Wheeler High School) competed against teams from across the country and returned home with an impressive slate of awards.

As a team, the students earned Champion Team OverallChampion Team for PlacingsChampion Team for Group Think, and Reserve Champion Team for Reasons.

Individually, students were also recognized for outstanding performance:

  • Prayushi Padhi: Third High Individual for Reasons; Fourth High Overall

  • Aarsheya Gunjal: Fifth High Individual for Reasons

  • Naitik Maheshwari: Fourth High Individual for Placings

  • Shubham Badve: First High Individual Overall; First High Individual for Reasons; Fifth High Individual for Placings; earned perfect scores for both sets of reasons, a rare national achievement

The students’ success reflects years of dedication. Each has participated in the Georgia 4-H Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Competition since fourth grade. Consumer Judging teaches students how to evaluate products and services based on quality, cost, and value, while building critical thinking, teamwork, and public speaking skills that translate to academic and career success.

Congratulations to Prayushi, Aarsheya, Naitik, and Shubham for representing Cobb County with excellence. Their achievements highlight the impact of long-term commitment, strong mentorship, and supportive learning communities.

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East Cobb Middle School talent show continues long tradition

East Cobb Middle School talent show

Submitted information, photo and videos:

For more than 25 years, the talent show at East Cobb Middle School has been a staple within Cobb Schools, an event hundreds look forward to each year.

This year, the talent show brought out brave 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students who showcased a wide range of talents they had spent weeks and months preparing to perform.

“My favorite part is seeing the joy all the students have,” said longtime East Cobb teacher and event organizer Hope Onyeukwu. 

People in attendance saw everything from inspiring piano performances and energetic dance routines to heartfelt singing and even a unique yo-yo performance.

“I feel like I unite with my team when we do it, and it’s all about unity when we dance,” said 8th grader Adrienne.

According to the talented East Cobb students, the event provided more than the fun of showcasing their talent. They also learned more about their fellow classmates through shared interests and made new friends.

“I hope that they get out of this that no matter what you do, you have to have courage. These kids are so inspiring because the amount of courage they have to get up there at such a young age inspires not only the young but the older people as well,” said ELA teacher Andrew Trowers, who helps host the event every year.

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Cobb Senior Citizens Council to have decluttering seminar

The first meeting of the Senior Citizens Council of Cobb County in 2026 is a decluttering and downsizing seminar.Cobb Senior Citizens Council to have decluttering seminar

The event takes place on Friday, Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Wellstar Vinings Health Park, 4441 Atlanta Road, in Smyrna.

Roxie Hernandez, a relocation specialist and Linda Kaplan, a consultant in move management, will lead the seminar.

Together they have over 20 years experience in giving valuable information for seniors on decluttering, downsizing, and rightsizing to fit an individual or family’s current or future needs.

The event is free but persons need to preregister to secure a seat. Seniors can use the QR code on the flyer or register by going to the website www.seniorsofcobb.org where the seminar is listed under the Meetings & Events tab.

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Cobb Sheriff’s Office announces 5th Citizens Academy

Submitted information:Cobb Sheriff's Office

The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office invites community members to participate in the 5th Cobb County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy (CCSCA) — a hands-on, behind-the-scenes opportunity to learn about the structure, operations, and leadership of the Sheriff’s Office.

This seven-week interactive program includes lectures, interdisciplinary workshops led by Sheriff’s Office personnel, tactical equipment displays, and discussions with specialized units. Participants will gain firsthand insight into the daily operations and responsibilities of the men and women who serve Cobb County.

Who: Cobb County Sheriff’s Office
What: Cobb County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy (CCSCA) — a seven-week program focused on educating residents about the Sheriff’s Office through immersive learning and direct engagement with Sheriff’s Office leadership.
When: Every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5, 2026
  • March 12, 2026
  • March 19, 2026
  • March 26, 2026
  • April 2, 2026
  • April 16, 2026
  • April 23, 2026
Where: Cobb County Public Safety Training Center, Cobb County Adult Detention Center, and the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters in downtown Marietta
Why: This free academy strengthens community partnerships by empowering residents through transparency, education, and open dialogue. It offers a rare chance to go beyond the badge and engage with key personnel who protect and serve Cobb County.
Enrollment Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Possess a valid government identification
  • Complete an application and submit it to the Community Engagement Unit
  • Successfully complete a background investigation
  • Attend at least 6 out of 7 sessions
  • Deadline to apply is February 27, 2026

Cost: Free. Apply here for this unique opportunity

Commissioners appoint new Cobb Water System director

Submitted information and photo:Commissioners appoint new Cobb Water System director

During its regular meeting last week, the Board of Commissioners appointed Alicia Giddens as the new Cobb Water System director. Today, Feb. 2, was her official first day in the role.

Giddens, who has been with the agency for more than 30 years, previously served as the deputy director. She joined in 1995 as an environmental compliance technician. Since then, she has held numerous positions, including laboratory technician, biologist (quality assurance/quality control manager), laboratory superintendent, environmental compliance division manager and water protection division manager.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and minor in chemistry from Kennesaw State University. She is certified as a wastewater laboratory analyst and wastewater operator class III by the Georgia Board of Water and Wastewater. Giddens was also chairperson of the Georgia Water and Wastewater Institute Board of Directors and a member of the Board of Directors of the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. She is also an alumnus of the Cobb County EXCEL Leadership program. 

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Hembree Road subdivision request gets initial hearing

UPDATED:

The Planning Commission recommended the request for approval on its consent agenda.

ORIGINAL POST:

A residential developer who wants to convert 13 largely undeveloped acres near Pope High School for a subdivision is seeking a rezoning request to increase the number of homes to be built.Hembree Road subdivision request to get initial hearing

Red Ridge Properties LLC, of Athens, will go before the Cobb Planning Commission Tuesday seeking rezoning from R-30 to R-20 to build 20 homes, or 1.95 units an acre. The current zoning category allows for 14 homes.

The land at 2760 and 2830 Hembree Road contains a single home, built in 1976, and it surrounded by newer subdivisions. According to an agenda item (you can read it here), Red Ridge Properties is planning to build homes with an average of 2,500 square feet and a traditional or craftsman architecture.

The property is being sold by the Estate of James Lamar Rucker.

The Cobb Zoning Division is recommending approval of the request, which is on the consent agenda, meaning there’s no known opposition to the application. Red Ridge is represented by noted Cobb zoning attorney Kevin Moore.

In its analysis, the staff noted that the adjacent Liberty Ridge subdivision also has a similar density of 1.9 units an acre, and that it conforms with the low-density residential category called for in the Cobb Future Land Use Map.

The subdivision would be zoned in the Cobb County School District to Pope High School, Hightower Trail Middle School and Murdock Elementary School, all of which are under capacity, according to the agenda item.

The agenda item also states that Cobb DOT is recommending a deceleration lane be built as part of the subdivision’s access point because Hembree Road is an minor collector road.

The Cobb Planning Commission meeting begins at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the second floor board room of the county office building at 100 Cherokee Street, Marietta. You can view the full agenda by clicking here.

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

The Planning Commission’s recommendations will be considered by the Cobb Board of Commissioners on Feb. 17.

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Cobb Seed Library program expands to East Cobb Library

Cobb Seed Library program expands to East Cobb Library

Submitted information:

Calling all gardeners, the Seed Library is back this spring at four new library locations near you!

Cobb County Public Library’s Seed Library is a system-wide, community-based initiative designed to promote local gardening, sustainable food practices, and biodiversity preservation by enabling people to get seeds designed to grow in our region.

These portable catalogs of seed packets are organized by seed type with fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Folks may take up to 3 packets per day for use in home gardens and landscapes.

February 2, 2026 through June 4, 2026 while supplies last: East Cobb Library, North Cobb Library, Powder Springs Library, Sweetwater Valley Library.

In 2025, over 3600 seed packets went out to local gardeners.

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Celebree School brings whole-child learning to East Cobb

Celebree School lets East Cobb families embrace whole-child learning

In East Cobb, families have many childcare options, but more parents are looking for something beyond just a place to drop off their children. They want early learning that builds confidence, social skills, emotional awareness, and academic growth. The new Celebree School of East Cobb on Johnson Ferry Road was designed to meet that need with a research-backed curriculum and a philosophy that focuses on the whole child.

Opened in December 2025 at 1099 Johnson Ferry Road, The Celebree School is a new premium brand entering Georgia, and is now enrolling infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-k aged children. The school is led by long-time East Cobb residents Farwa Khan and Aloke Devalia, who bring decades of professional experience and a strong commitment to their community.

Farwa previously operated an accredited preschool in Marietta and holds a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia State University. Aloke, an MBA graduate from Georgia Tech, spent over 20 years in leadership roles at companies including Delta Air Lines and Equifax. Together, they are creating a learning environment where children and families can grow and thrive.

Celebree School director Beth Anderson, at left, with owner-operator Farwa Khan

A central part of the school’s approach is Conscious Discipline. This social-emotional learning framework teaches children self-regulation, empathy, and problem-solving skills. “Conscious Discipline is more than a program, it is a philosophy that guides every classroom decision,” said Farwa Khan. “It helps children understand their emotions, make safe choices, and interact positively with peers and teachers.”

The school’s Promise to Grow People Big and Small™ reflects its commitment to nurturing every child. Celebree takes pride in nurturing both their employees’ professional development and the growth of the children in their care. As they help children learn and develop new skills, they actively promote the personal and career growth of their staff, welcoming them to aspire to higher positions within the Celebree organization

At Celebree School, every space is designed with kids in mind. Classrooms are bright, spacious, and full of natural light, perfect for exploring and learning. Outside, there’s a brand new fully turfed playground with plenty of shaded spots and modern play equipment where kids can run, climb, and play safely.

Everything is set up to help children be curious, confident, and engaged, while also reflecting Celebree’s promise to protect, educate, and nurture every child in their care. Celebree School also emphasizes strong partnerships with families. Parents are encouraged to engage with teachers, observe classrooms, and participate in the learning process. This holistic approach creates a community where children, educators, and families work together to support social, emotional, and intellectual growth.

For East Cobb families who want childcare that balances academics with social-emotional development, Celebree School offers a fresh option. With enrollment now open, families can visit the facility, meet the director and educators, and see how the school’s philosophy comes to life every day.

Farwa and Aloke’s vision is simple. They want to give children the skills and confidence to succeed while offering families peace of mind and a sense of connection. With Celebree School, families in East Cobb have a new standard for early childhood education.

Beth Anderson, the Celebree School East Cobb director, has been in early childhood education leadership for 21 years and partners closely with families to create nurturing, play-based learning environments that support each child’s social, emotional, and developmental growth. Building strong relationships with families is at the heart of her work, because when we work together, children thrive.

She has worked as a teaching artist, training public school teachers to integrate the arts into everyday learning, and served as a Wolf Trap educator.

Her leadership has been recognized through multiple childcare awards, including being named Director of the Year twice, Mentor of the Year, and receiving a “Grit”  Award for compassion and early child education innovation. Her work has also been featured in Spotlight Magazine and Parent Magazine. She has served as a board member of the Georgia Child Care Association (GCCA) and the Mountain View Arts Alliance.

At heart, she is a child advocate- someone who believes in the power of play, imagination, and meaningful relationships. Her goal is always the same: to create a joyful, exciting and safe experience, where children are familiar and parents are at peace and connected.

Celebree School of East Cobb is inviting families to tour and enroll at 1099 Johnson Ferry Road. Please visit https://www.celebree.com/east-cobb-ga/ or call 770-874-0100 to schedule a visit.

Click the middle button below to view more photos from Celebree School East Cobb.

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East Cobb Real Estate: Equestrian retreat sells for $1.9M

This week’s featured home sale is an 11-acre equestrian treat on Wesley Chapel Road, near Garrison Mill Elementary School.

It features four bedrooms and 4.5 baths, spread out over 3,115 square feet. Built in 1940 and featuring its original charm with modern upgrades, the home sold for $1.95 million on Jan. 23, 2026.

The anchor is a light-filled kitchen with custom cabinetry, double ovens and abundant prep space. There are multiple gathering rooms with hardwood floors and spacious bedrooms and bathrooms.

The immediate backyard features a swimming pool and a privacy fence, fanning out to woodlands with riding space and stables.

There are multiple barns with stalls, turnout areas and rolling acres. The home also includes a partially finished basement with office space, a garden, a patio and back deck and parking space for eight vehicles.

Click the middle button below to see more photos.

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The following East Cobb residential real estate sales from Jan. 20-23, 2026 were compiled from agency reports and Cobb County property records.

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

Kell

4262 Inlet Road, 30066 (Lamplighter): $360,000

Lassiter

None

Marietta

None

Pope

235 Ashleigh Terrace, 30062 (Heartwood): $602,000

2864 Sudbury Court, 30062 (Liberty Ridge): $440,000

2138 Cedar Forks Drive, 30062 (Cedar Forks): $365,000

Sprayberry

229 Bluffington Way, 30066 (Bluffs at Bells Ferry): $405,000

2412 Retreat Close, 30066 (Stone Creek): $582,500

2020 Starlight Drive, 30062 (Sandy Plains Estates): $416,000

2902 Timberline Road, 30062 (Mountain View): $485,000

4108 Christacy Way, 30066 (Thornbrook): $413,000

Walton

5157 Forest Brook Parkway, 30068 (Tally Green): $1.065 million

1502 Wood Thrush Way, 30062 (Chestnut Springs): $580,700

Wheeler

3048 Haverford Lane, 30067 (Stratford): $390,000

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Light flurries fall on East Cobb as extreme cold moves in

Light flurries fall on East Cobb as extreme cold moves in

The amount of snowfall forecast for Cobb County is turning out to be less than projected in this weekend’s winter storm, but very cold temperatures could make travel hazardous into Sunday morning.

Light flurries began falling in East Cobb mid Saturday morning, with little initial accumulation. The National Weather Service is forecasting that less than an inch of snow overall is expected as the precipitation continued through mid Saturday afternoon.

But dropping temperatures and high wind gusts not only will make it feel like below zero.

Some businesses and events were closed or canceled on Saturday, including Cobb County libraries and all Cobb County School District extracurricular events.

We’re starting to get some announcements about Sunday plans at churches, and will update them here:

  • Eastminster Presbyterian—Regular 9 and 11:15 am, as well as all scheduled activities will go ahead.
  • Mt. Zion United Methodist—All Sunday worship and activities canceled
  • Wesley Chapel United Methodist—All Sunday worship and activities canceled
  • St. Catherine’s Episcopal—All Sunday activities will take place, including 8:30 and 11 a.m. services
  • Eastside Church—All Sunday activities will take place, including 11 a.m. service
  • Grace Resurrection Methodist—11 a.m. worship will take place
  • Johnson Ferry Baptist—In-person services will take place at 10 and 11:30, no 8:30 service
  • East Cobb United Methodist—All Sunday worship and activities will take place
  • Mt. Bethel Church—In-person worship will take place at 11 a.m. only; all other services and activities are canceled
  • St. Andrew United Methodist—All Sunday worship and activities are canceled

Let us know about your church or other activities for Sunday, and send us any weather pictures: [email protected]. If you see any downed tree or power lines or road issues, please let us know and we’ll s spread the word.

We haven’t heard anything from Cobb DOT or other sources about road or power issues on Saturday.

Cobb is in an extreme cold weather warning area from 7 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday.

Saturday’s high is only in the mid 20s, with a low Saturday of around 13, and a wind chill factor of minus -3 degrees.

On Sunday, the sun will return with a high around 32, with also with a wind chill factor of minus -3 and wind gusts up to 30 mph. Sunday night’s low will be around 20, and then a warming trend comes through the area early next week. Tuesday’s high is expected to be in the mid-50s.

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Students walk out at Sprayberry and Wheeler to protest ICE

Students walk out at Sprayberry and Wheeler to protest ICE
A still photo of Sprayberry HS students protesting ICE from video shot by Andrew Register.

Students at a number of Cobb County high schools walked out of classes and other school activities Friday afternoon to protest federal immigration operations in Minnesota that havd galvanized opposition across the country.

Dozens of students at Sprayberry High School in East Cobb gathered at the intersection of Sandy Plains Road and Piedmont Road, across from the school, holding signs and getting motorists to honk in support.

Local videographer Andrew Register sent us the footage below and the photos in this post from the Sprayberry protest that included interviews with some students.

A smaller group of students gathered outside Wheeler High School on Holt Road in East Cobb on Friday afternoon as well, as students around Georgia coordinated protests agains the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency raids in the Minneapolis area.

Sprayberry Principal David Church

Two protesters there were shot and killed in recent weeks by U.S. Border Patrol agents involved in activities to remove illegal immigrants.

The Cobb County School District issued a statement early this week saying that students who disrupted class activities would be subject to its student code of conduct, including out-of-school suspension and “the potential loss of parking privileges, sports, and extracurricular privileges. Each has long-lasting impacts that could be taken into account by college admission offices and future employers.”

Students organizing the walkouts complained that threatened their free-speech rights, and Cobb students published an open letter demanding mental-health services due to “immigration-related stress” but the school district did not respond.

On Wednesday Sprayberry principal David Church wrote an open letter to the school community saying that he and his staff met with students and staff, as well as parents, “to help students find ways to share their voice, support causes they care about and express their views, all while staying within the guidelines of the school district.

“I am proud of our students for having the courage to come forward with their ideas and questions.”

Church added in his letter that proceeds from the Sprayberry Student-Principal Advisory Committee’s winter dance on Thursday will be used “to support a group benefitting local families and children.”

A message posted by a Wheeler student protest organizer after the walkout Friday expressed disappointment with the turnout, “as this morning, admin had threatened students again through announcements, and many felt scared to walk out—but we would advise you not to be discouraged.

“We see all of you, and we are so grateful to have members of our community that have the compassion and motivation to speak up for what is right,” said the message, which did not include any names.

“Today’s events should not be seen as signs of failure, but rather as an increasingly evident fact that there is still so much work to do, and that we have to realize we have more power than we think.”

The Wheeler student message said that Principal Sara Fetterman “has spoken about other opportunities and alternatives that we can pursue to be civically engaged, and we encourage students to work together to find out more ways to stand up for this cause.”

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Cobb added to winter storm warning as DOT pretreats roads

Cobb added to winter storm warning as DOT pretreats roads

Cobb DOT crews are pretreating major roads on Friday as the county was added to a winter storm warning, and with the possibility of two inches of snow or more in the forecast.

Cobb County government said late Friday morning that the brine pretreating of more than 500 miles major roads will continue through early Saturday morning.

Cobb has been included in a winter storm watch area since Thursday. Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency in Georgia for the second weekend in a row.

The Cobb County School District also announced Friday afternoon that all extracurricular activities scheduled for Saturday and Sunday have been canceled.

Also canceled was the Braves Fest fan event Saturday at Truist Park.

Cobb DOT director Drew Raessler said Friday that crews will be coming in at 3 a.m. Saturday to monitor the weather and “to respond to the weather as it comes.” The shifts will run 12 hours after that “until the worst of the weather passes,” he said.

For the second weekend in a row, those crews have been working around the clock. Last weekend’s ice storm did not result in any road closures, although there were some downed trees.

The National Weather Service has declared the winter storm warning period from 1 a.m. Saturday through 1 a.m. Sunday.

Cobb DOT is urging motorists to avoid travel during this period, as roads are expected to become hazardous and possibly impassible in areas. The agency also wants the roads to be cleared so crews can work ahead of the storm as much as possible.

There’s a 20 percent chance of precipitation overnight Friday, and a 40 percent chance during the day Saturday,k with highs only in the mid-20s.

The Cobb area is expected to get up to two inches of snow, but more snow could fall in localized areas.

Cobb continues to be under a cold weather warning from 7 p.m. Friday to 10. a.m. Sunday.

With temperatures dropping into the low teens, there’s no ice, sleet or freezing rain in the forecast. But with wind chills the weather could feel like it’s below zero Saturday and into Sunday.

The low Saturday will reach around 12 degrees, but the wind chill could make it feel like it’s below zero in some areas.

Sunday will be sunny with a high of 32 and the low will also be the teens before a warming trend comes through the area early next week. Tuesday’s high is expected to be in the mid-50s.

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Holcaust service at Gritters Library rescheduled for Feb. 11

Holcaust service at Gritters Library rescheduled for Feb. 11

Submitted by the Cobb County Public Library System after Monday’s event was postponed due to weather:

The Holocaust Remembrance Day program at Gritters Library is rescheduled to Wednesday, February 11 at 1 pm.
The Kennesaw State University Museum of History and Holocaust Education (MHHE), in partnership with Gritters, is presenting the program featuring a talk by Katy Matello, MHHE Educational and Outreach Coordinator. This event honors the victims and survivors of the Holocaust while reaffirming a commitment to stand against hatred in all its forms.
The MHHE exhibit “Enduring Tension: (En)Countering Antisemitism in Every Age” is on display in the library through Wednesday, February 11. This exhibit educates visitors about the history of anti-Semitism in the U.S. and challenges them to consider how they can help combat hate. Through stories and historical context, it sparks dialogue and action toward a more inclusive future.
A link to the “Enduring Tension” exhibit is at digitalcommons.kennesaw.edu/mhheexhibits/5.

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Wheeler names new football coach who won Fla. state title

Wheeler High School’s new head football coach is Travis Roland.Wheeler names new football coach who won Fla. state title

He was introduced on the school’s social media channels on Thursday, and he comes from Camden County High School in South Georgia, where he was 13-8 over the last two seasons.

Roland has a 75-29 record as a high school head coach, and he led Mainland High School of Daytona Beach to the 2023 Florida High School Athletic Association state championship, as well as a runner-up finish in 2022.

His teams at Mainland also were regional quarterfinalists six times and won district championships three times.

Wheeler made a coaching change after the Wildcats finished 3-7 in 2025. Bryan Love was 26-47 in seven seasons and led Wheeler to one playoff appearance, in 2023, with a 7-4 record.

That has been Wheeler’s only winning season since 2018.

Roland came to Camden County, one of Georgia’s most successful high school football programs, in 2024, but was dismissed after the team went 6-4 in 2025 and failed to make the playoffs.

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Cobb included in winter storm watch with snow in forecast

Cobb included in winter storm watch with snow forecast

Another weekend, another winter storm is in the forecast for Cobb County.

The National Weather Service has extended a winter storm watch area to include Cobb from 7 p.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Sunday.

According to the NWS forecast, up to two inches of snow is possible in some areas, and wind gusts could be as strong as 35 mph.

“Bridges and overpasses could become slick and hazardous,” according to a message from Cobb government Thursday afternoon.

“Residents are urged to delay travel if possible and use extreme caution if travel is necessary.”

Cobb government spokesman Ross Cavitt told East Cobb News Thursday afternoon that Cobb DOT is “working on getting crews on standby” for possible treatment of roads, “and we’ll discuss brining or anything tomorrow [Friday] morning.”

An extreme cold watch also in effect for the same time period, as temperatures in most of north Georgia could drop below zero with the wind chill.

Friday’s high will be much like Thursday’s, in the mid-40s, but there’s a 20-30 percent chance of precipitation in the Cobb and metro Atlanta area from Friday night into Saturday.

Friday’s low will be around 20, and Saturday’s high is expected to reach only into the mid-20s.

The weather will clear out on Saturday afternoon, but temperatures are expected to fall into the low teens, and possibly lower, with high wind gusts (up to 35 mph in some areas) making it feel like it’s 10 below zero.

Sunday will be sunny with a high of 32 and low back into the teens before a warming trend comes through the area early next week.

By Tuesday the highs are forecast into the high 40s, and there’s a chance of rain Wednesday before sunny weather returns for the rest of the week.

Fore more local weather information, click here.

 

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East Cobb Civic Association participates in Adopt-A-Mile cleanup

East Cobb Civic Association participates in Adopt-A-Mile cleanup

Submitted information and photo:

The East Cobb Civic Association (ECCA) Board and its members play an important role in shaping Cobb County government decisions, initiatives, zoning and variance rulings that affect East Cobb neighborhoods. By staying engaged, ECCA members remain informed about key votes, meetings, and emerging issues, and are encouraged to actively voice their support or concerns to help protect and strengthen our community.

As part of ECCA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening and beautifying our community, our organization joined the Keep Cobb Beautiful (KCB) Adopt‑a‑Mile program several years ago. Four times each year, ECCA members gather along Johnson Ferry Road to maintain a clean and welcoming one‑mile stretch.

Our first cleanup of 2026 took place on Saturday, January 17, and we were thrilled with the turnout. The Adopt‑a‑Mile program is also an excellent opportunity for Boy Scouts and high school students to earn Community Service credit while making a visible difference in East Cobb.

Three additional cleanup dates are scheduled for 2026: April 18, July 18, and October 17. Volunteers meet at 10:00 a.m. at the back of the Publix parking lot at Johnson Ferry Road and Woodlawn Drive. Please bring gloves—trash bags and vests are provided.

ECCA welcomes all who want to help keep East Cobb beautiful.

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Armed woman shot at Cobb Police HQ in critical condition

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said a woman who drew a gun at an officer at the Cobb Police headquarters Wednesday was shot several times and is in critical condition.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

The GBI, which investigates officer-involved shootings in Georgia, said Rebekah Patterson, 26, of Marietta, arrived at the police headquarters on Fairground Street in Marietta at 4 p.m. Wednesday, asking to speak with an officer.

An officer met with her outside the building, in the headquarters parking lot, according to the GBI, who said Patterson pulled out a firearm and pointed it at the officer.

The GBI said in a statement that the officer gave her “multiple verbal commands” to drop the gun, and when she refused, the officer fired at her, “hitting her multiple times.”

The GBI said aid was rendered to Patterson before she was taken to a hospital, where she is listed in critical condition, and that no officers were injured during the incident.

The GBI will turn over its findings in the investigation to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for review.

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ICE walkout group responds to Cobb school district statement

ICE walkout group responds to Cobb school district statement
Wheeler is one of three East Cobb high schools with student walkouts announced for Friday.

The organizers of a campaign to conduct immigration-related walkouts at public high schools in metro Atlanta on Friday said that the Cobb County School District is being asked to refuse to cooperate with any enforcement efforts that may take place on campuses.

The group known as abolish.ice.georgia also said the district is being requested to provide “access to counseling and mental health support for students affected by immigration-related stress, as well as staff training on students’ rights and how to respond appropriately if immigration officials appear at school.”

The walkouts are in response to two shooting deaths of civilians and related violence in recent weeks in Minneapolis, where federal immigration authorities—including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, or ICE—have been carrying out enforcement activities.

The abolish.ice.georgia group—which has been posting anonymously but claims it’s run by students—also said that “if these concerns are not addressed by Thursday, students will proceed with a peaceful walkout on Friday.”

The message was addressed to “Dear Cobb County School District” and signed by “All Cobb County Students” but no names were included (see below).

The message, posted Wednesday on the group’s Instagram account, is in response to a statement from the Cobb County School District on Tuesday that students who violate its code of conduct will be facing disciplinary action.

The district said that walkouts during the class day would “disrupt school operations and distract students and teachers.”

Walkouts have been announced at several Cobb high schools, including Lassiter, Sprayberry and Wheeler in East Cobb.

All are tentatively scheduled to be held after class periods or blocks, either at main entrances or in the case of Sprayberry, on the football field.

Updated, Thursday, 3:30 p.m.:

In a request for comment from East Cobb News, abolish.ice.georgia said it consists of a small group of three student organizers, and that it is relaying messages from individual school walkout organizers on a social media channel.

“Our role is to help share information, amplify student voices, and promote peaceful protest. We are not a formal organization, nor do we claim to represent every student in the Cobb County School District.”

The response from abolish.ice.georgia—whose individuals are not named—said it could not identify those students at the school level.

“Many of the students involved are minors and have explicitly requested that their identities remain private for safety and personal reasons. We take that responsibility seriously.”

Original story resumes:

In its statement Tuesday, the Cobb school district said that the code of conduct includes “disrupting the instructional day,” and that the consequences include out-of-school suspensions, as well as “the potential loss of parking privileges, sports, and extracurricular privileges. Each has long-lasting impacts that could be taken into account by college admission offices and future employers.”

The district encouraged “families to speak with their children about appropriate civic engagement and the importance of not disrupting school.”

On Wednesday, abolish.ice.georgia claimed that “attempting to silence voices through threats or intimidation do not create safety or trust. They only show who you choose to side with and that student voices are not being heard.”

East Cobb News has left a message with the Cobb school district seeking a response to Wednesday’s abolish.ice.georgia statement.

In its statement to East Cobb News, abolish.ice.georgia said that “at this time, we are not in direct contact with Cobb County School District officials. No formal discussions are taking place regarding calling off the walkouts. Students are making individual decisions about participation, understanding that consequences may apply, and many have expressed that they are prepared for that in order to raise awareness and speak out peacefully.”

ICE has been in Minneapolis in recent weeks as part of a 3,000-troop federal effort to detain illegal immigrants, including the involvement of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Two U.S. Border Patrol agents involved in the fatal shootings have been placed on administrative leave as the Trump Administration is changing leadership for its Minnesota operations.

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