Cobb Library System’s spring book sale returns in March

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East Cobb weekend events, Cobb Book Fair

Submitted information:

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! The Spring Book Sale will be held at Cobb Civic Center March 13-15, 2026.

Materials for sale include books for all ages in both hardcover and paperback, DVDs, books on CD, magazines, and puzzles. Prices range from 10 cents to $4.00.

Find a price list here.

Cobb Civic Center is at 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30060. Hours for the sale are Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. There is plenty of free parking.

Acceptable forms of payment are debit, credit, cash, and checks — Visa and MasterCard only.

On Friday until 1 pm electronic (scanning) devices are not permitted. While we hope you will buy lots of materials, we are only able to sell up to 2 boxes of items at a time on Friday until 1 pm. Please plan to pay and take items to your vehicle before coming in to shop some more.

On Sunday we will be working to sell out the Civic Center so please come to buy, buy, buy!

Sunday is BYOB (Bring Your Own Box) Day: fill any size box (you can bodily get back to your car) for a flat rate — $10 upper level only; $20 lower level only; $20 mixed.

All profits from this book sale go directly to buying more items for Cobb County Public Library’s 15 branches and bookmobile. Thank you for your support!

 

 

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Cobb Tax Aide to offer free filing services from February-April

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AARP Tax-Aides—a service of the AARP Foundation—are ready to help people with low to moderate incomes prepare and file their taxes at no charge.

Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide and are IRS-certified every year.

AARP free tax preparation sessions

The Cobb schedule schedule begins at Feb. 2 and concludes on April 15, and there are three locations in the East Cobb area: The Gritters Library on Mondays, the East Cobb Library on Tuesdays, and the Mountain View Regional Library on Thursdays.

Check the full schedule contact information below or click here for more details.

The Cobb Public Library System has provided the following information:

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers will provide free tax preparation assistance at six Cobb County libraries. 

Service is provided by appointment only. AARP’s online reservation system opens Thursday, January 15, 2026. Taxpayers will see available slots and may select desired dates. Links to each library’s online reservation system are below. 

Other appointment sign-up options are also detailed. Tax aides cannot service walk-in patrons on the same day and will not make same-day appointments.

For a list of documentation required for an AARP Tax-Aide appointment, click here.

Taxpayers with scheduled appointments will have returns completed same day. They are welcomed to wait in the library or leave and come back to pick up completed returns.

Tax Forms

For the do-it-yourself tax preparer, Cobb County libraries are making available federal 2025 1040 tax forms and instruction booklets while supplies last. Libraries also will offer free printing of federal and state forms, up to 10 pages. This service does not include instruction books. 

Library staff is unable to answer tax questions or provide advice about which forms to use. Residents are encouraged to review tax-filing information at irs.gov and dor.georgia.gov/taxes for details that apply to individual circumstances, including virtual resources for tax-filing assistance.

Deadline

The deadline to file federal tax returns, request extensions, or pay owed taxes is Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

AARP Tax-Aide Schedule

Gritters Library, Mondays 10 am to 3 pm, February 2 thru April 13

  • Self-scheduling link for Gritters is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. Tax-aide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Mondays beginning February 2 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date. 

South Cobb Regional Library, Mondays 10 am to 2 pm, February 2 thru April 13. 

  • Self-scheduling link for South Cobb is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. TaxAide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Mondays beginning February 2 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date.

East Cobb Library, Tuesdays 10:15 am to 4 pm, February 3 thru April 14

  • Self-scheduling link for East Cobb is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. Tax-aide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Tuesdays beginning February 3 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date.

Mountain View Regional Library, Thursdays 10 am – 3 pm, February 5 – April 9

  • Self-scheduling link for Mountain View is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. Tax-aide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Thursdays beginning February 5 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date. 

Switzer Library, Thursdays 10:30 am – 4 pm, February 5 – April 9

  • Self-scheduling link for Switzer is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. Tax-aide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Thursdays beginning February 5 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date.

North Cobb Regional Library, Fridays 10 am – 3 pm, February 6 – April 10. 

  • NOTE: Tax preparation will not be available April 4 as the library is closed for the Good Friday holiday.
  • Self-scheduling link for North Cobb is here. Taxpayers will select desired dates and see available slots.
  • Taxpayers may also email appointment requests to [email protected]. Tax-aide volunteers will confirm appointments.
  • In-person reservations may be made Fridays beginning February 6 during tax help hours. These appointments will be for a future date. 

Helpful Websites and Services

IRS
  • irs.gov
  • irs.gov/forms
  • Forms and Publication Orders: (800) 829-3676
  • Tax Information: (800) 829-1040
  • Recorded Tax & Refund Information: (800) 829-4477
  • Federal Taxpayer Advocate Service of the IRS: (404) 338-8099
  • TDD Equipment: (800) 829-4059 
Georgia Department of Revenue
 VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)

 

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East Cobb Real Estate: Stone Creek tri-level sells for $652K

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East Cobb Real Estate: Stone Creek tri-level sells for $652K

This week’s featured home sale is a three-story in the Stone Creek subdivsion, in the Sprayberry High School attendance zone, and which sold for $652,500 on Dec. 31, 30062.

The home sits on 0.37 acres and has 3,1,61 square feet, with five bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms.

It includes a full renovated main level with an open-concept design and a new kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and a service and entertainment island.

There’s a covered back porch and a backyard entertainment and dining area with a fire pit and a fenced-in backyard.

The second level features a spacious primary suite and generous closet space. Three additional secondary bedrooms offer versatility for family, guests or a home office.

On the third level is a full bedroom and bathroom. The home also has a recently replaced HVAC system and roof.

Click the middle button below to see more photos.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The following East Cobb residential real estate sales from Dec. 29, 2025 to Jan. 2, 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

4509 North Bay Court, 30066 (North Landing): $365,000

1634 Barrier Road, 30066 (Lamplighter Ridge): $379,900

Lassiter

3634 Stonehenge Way, 30066 (Stocktons Mill): $380,000

3238 Mountain Hollow Drive, 30062 (The Glenns): $529,000

Marietta

1673 Barrington Overlook, 30062: $320,000

1260 Herty Drive, 30062 (Parkside East): $420,000

Pope

4789 Waterhaven Bend, 30062 (Easthampton): $970,000

3812 Mine Creek Lane, 30062 (The Park at Lost Forest): $780,000

3025 Bunker Hill Circle, 30062 (Bunker Hills): $791,500

2268 Woods Field Lane, 30062 (Post Oak Square): $680,000

2997 Gateland Square, 30062 (Garden Gate on Lassiter): $800,000

Sprayberry

1932 Ferry Drive, 30066 (Kings Wood Estates): $385,000

3288 Crawford Circle, 30066 (Addison Heights): $375,000

2161 Deep Woods Way, 30062 (Piedmont Forest): $495,000

2411 Hidden Hills Drive, 30066 (Hidden Hills): $425,000

2605 Irene Drive, 30066: $295,000

183 Kathryn Lane, 30066 (Brookhaven): $431,000

2410 Retreat Close, 30066 (Stone Creek): $652,500

Walton

5473 Heyward Square Place, 30068 (Heyward Square): $1.98 million

4040 Summit Drive, 30068 (Indian Hills): $637,000

4121 Fawn Court, 30068 (Fawn Ridge): $625,000

748 Noble Oak Drive, 30068 (Rose Oak): $868,000

1281 Riversound Drive, 30068 (River Sound): $1.1 million

Wheeler

3300 Windy Ridge Parkway, Unit 1110, 30339 (Horizon at Wildwood): $492,500

61 Holt Road, 30068: $525,000

29 Rhodes Drive, 30068 (East Valley Estates): $345,000

2330 Trellis Lane, 30067 (Gardenside at Powers Ferry): $455,000

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Editor’s Note: Long live local news! Support ECN today!

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I try not to get emotional with these appeals asking for reader support of East Cobb News, but as 2026 gets underway, it’s been hard for me not to.

As we rang in the new year, the The Atlanta Journal-Constitution—where I proudly worked for nearly two decades—published its last print edition.

As I contemplated the end of a 157-year-run—the AJC will continue in all-digital form—I had to fight off some tears.

During my time there as an online editor I realized that the future of local news most likely would be best reshaped in the virtual world that we’ve all gotten very accustomed to and don’t even think about today.

Still, it was hard letting go of what that world of print was like, not just for me as a journalist, but for readers who loved to page through each day’s bundle of top stories, sports standings, obituaries, comics and crossword puzzles.

My late mother was a longtime subscriber, and I chalk up my love for reading and getting into this profession largely because of that. Those daily newspaper rituals became a passion, and the curiosities inspired by reading general-interest news became an obsession for serving communities.

It wasn’t just about keeping up with the news, but also opening up a personal community gathering place. I sat and read the paper with my morning coffee and breakfast, at my leisure.

I loved taking a good bit of Sunday to work my way through the big weekend edition, from the big investigations on Page A1 to the book reviews to a nifty weekly feature about all the many little communities across Georgia.

I will always call it The Paper. Most of us who worked in places like that always will.

That’s what the employees of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette are feeling this week after learning that their newspaper, 240 years young, will be shutting down entirely in May. There won’t even be a digital edition; everyone will lose their jobs.

Most of all, a major metro region will be without a comprehensive print or online outlet.

Click here to donate to ECN today!

I wish my former AJC colleagues the best in their new world. I pray for those soon to be displaced at the Pittsburgh paper; it’s gut-wrenching to lose a job doing what you love the most. I know; I’ve been there.

At the really local news level, however, there are some different dynamics. Our friends at The Marietta Daily Journal—where I first worked in this industry more than than 40 years ago—are marking that paper’s 160th anniversary this year.

In the eight-plus years since I started East Cobb News, I have tried to keep alive the spirit of the best of the print tradition while embarking on the necessary task of providing the news for readers in this very different world. That’s why the original subtitle was “Local News for the Way You Live Today.”

Now, it’s “Discover the Power of Local,” because since this site was launched, I’ve seen that new vision in action, and it indeed has been powerful in this community.

That’s because it’s community-driven, focused on the needs of readers and the local businesses that we promote. I call it hyperlocal, because we can be flexible and adapt more easily to their demands than the larger corporations.

You have responded so well to what we have done over the years at East Cobb News; now we need you to respond in an even more significant way.

I have come to you numerous times before, asking for continued reader support to help us keep giving you the local news that you love. It’s with a sense of optimism about continuing to provide solid community news coverage in East Cobb.

THAT TIME HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT THAN NOW.

Donating is secure and easy!

Whether it’s stories featuring our original reporting, or others in our community passing along news about local events and activities, East Cobb News is devoted to what’s valued the most by readers here.

It’s our stock-in-trade, and for eight-plus years we’ve been building that community trust, one story at a time.

We do this without charging readers, because we believe reliable local news should be accessible to all.

At East Cobb News, nobody else does what we do, every day.

It’s our passion and our pride to give you the local news that makes a difference in this community.

Our donation amounts are voluntary, and what you pay is up to you. We are suggesting $6 a month on a recurring basis. You can also donate on an annual or one-time basis.

You rely on us to stay informed and we depend on you to make our work possible.

We appreciate whatever you are able to donate. Please click the box below to show your support via our Press Patron payment platform, which is safe, secure and easy. 

Thank you East Cobb! And long live local news!

 

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Senior Center expansion, Tritt Park plans on SPLOST list

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Cobb Senior Services membership program
The Tim D. Lee Senior Center offers a wide variety of programs and services that are high in demand, and that have prompted waitlists. ECN file photo.

A major expansion of the Tim D. Lee Senior Center is on a submitted project list for an extension of the Cobb Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax that may be up for referendum later this year.

According to the project list for the proposed 2028 SPLOST (you can read it here), funding to complete the purchase of the Tritt property next to East Cobb Park and to begin building that out also is being requested.

The Cobb Board of Commissioners will be asked Tuesday to approve the project list totaling nearly $795 million and that was submitted by county government department heads. The 2028 SPLOST would begin collections on Jan. 1, 2028 for six years, with nearly $1.15 billion expected (the rest would be collected by Cobb’s seven cities).

As we noted earlier this week in a story about the proposed $25 million relocation of the East Cobb Library, Cobb commissioners would have to vote to call for a referendum, and that vote is anticipated for April.

The first of several public engagement meetings about the proposed 2028 SPLOST takes place next Thursday, also at the Tim D. Lee Senior Center (3332 Sandy Plains Road).

The one-percent sales tax collects revenues for county and municipal government construction and maintenance projects

The expansion for the Tim D. Lee Senior Center (formerly the East Cobb Senior Center) is being budgeted for $8.2 million. Cobb government spokesman Ross Cavitt told East Cobb News this week that the facility is of one of Cobb Senior Services’ busiest locations.

“Demand for programs and services has increased significantly in recent years, resulting in full classes and long waitlists,” he said.

“With participation rising sharply and Cobb County’s senior population continuing to grow, expanding the center is essential to ensure seniors can continue to access the programs, services, and social opportunities that support healthy, active aging.”

Cavitt said the expansion would build out more space for programs and services, reduce those waitlists and overcrowding in popular classes, and provide capacity for elections.

Cobb PARKS officials have asked for $2 million to make additional purchases of the Tritt property as they continue to build out the larger East Cobb Park concept.

In 2018, commissioners approved spending $8.3 million to buy 22 acres of land owned adjacent to the park by Wylene Tritt, who also donated 7.7 acres.

The vision for that property would be to extend connections with East Cobb Park in keeping with its passive nature, including additional walking trails and possibly converting the Tritt home into an environmental education center.

Another $1 million on the SPLOST project list is being requested for the development of a master plan for that work, which Cavitt said “is to ensure we are ready to formulate a master plan and at least begin construction once we have acquired the property.”

The biggest ticket item on the list is the construction of a new Cobb State Court building, to the tune of $174 million. The current buildings on the Marietta Square are more than 60 years old and have been overcrowded for years.

Other proposals call for $135 million in road resurfacing projects, $30 million to replace the Cobb Central Aquatic Center in Marietta and $18.5 million to build a new recreation center in an unspecified area.

Among the proposed traffic improvements on the list, the following are in East Cobb:

  • Shallowford Road at McPherson Road ($3.5 million)
  • Canton Road at Canton Road Connector ($6 million)
  • Lower Roswell Road at Old Paper Mill Road ($1.5 million)
  • Johnson Ferry Road Corridor ($2.5 million)
  • Shaw Road Corridor ($2 million)

The full proposed SPLOST list can be found here, with additional background information.

The Cobb commissioners 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.

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East Cobb rally to protest fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota

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East Cobb rally to protest fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota
A “No Kings” protest took place in East Cobb last June. ECN file photo.

A liberal political organization that has held protests in East Cobb since last summer against the administration of President Donald Trump is holding another rally Sunday following a fatal shooting this week in Minnesota over immigration.

What’s being called an “ICE Out for Good” protest will take place from 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday at the intersection of Roswell and Johnson Ferry roads.

Indivisible Cobb said in a release Friday that the group is “demanding that ICE cease their unchecked harassment and intimidation and insist on justice for the killing of Renee Good.”

On Thursday, an officer with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency shot and killed Good, 37, in Minneapolis during an ICE operation.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched on investigation into the shooting, which prompted immediate protests in Minnesota.

The rally in East Cobb is among others planned nationally. Indivisible Cobb previously held rallies at the Roswell-Johnson Ferry intersection, including two “No Kings” protests against Trump policies.

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Steinhauer-Rocky Mountain intersection all-way stop proposed

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Steinhauer-Rocky Mountain intersection stop signs proposed
A view of Rocky Mountain Road from the intersection of Steinhauer Road.

Cobb DOT is proposing the installation of three-way stop signs at the intersection of Steinhauer Road and Rocky Mountain Road in Northeast Cobb.

A request to spend $18,500 in signage supplies will come before the Cobb Board of Commissioners on Tuesday on its consent agenda.

Currently, only motorists approaching Steinhauer from Rocky Mountain are required to stop; the agenda item for Tuesday’s meeting said the request, if approved, would mandate vehicle stops in all directions.

The measure is designed to improve pedestrian access between Rocky Mount Elementary School and Lassiter High School.

“We have received several requests to provide pedestrian access between Rocky Mount Elementary School and Lassiter High School along the Steinhauer Road corridor,” Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell said in her weekly newsletter Thursday.

“A traffic study has been completed, and the Cobb Department of Transportation has identified a location on Rocky Mountain Road that is best suited for a crosswalk.”

In Tuesday’s agenda item, Cobb DOT said that “based on the non-correctible sight distance along Steinhauer Road, installation of signage and pavement markings to convert the approaches on each road to an all-way stop-controlled intersecrion is justified,” according to federal guidelines.

The agenda item states the funding would come from the current Cobb DOT operating budget.

The BOC 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.

Steinhauer-Rocky Mountain intersection all-way stop proposed
OpenStreetMap

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Small Sliders holds groundbreaking for Marietta location

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Small Sliders holds groundbreaking for East Cobb location

Submitted information and photos:

The Smalls Sliders Marietta location (2355 Windy Hill Road) marks the latest currently under development in Georgia, further expanding the brand’s presence in the state. With one Can currently open in Stockbridge, Smalls Sliders continues to bring its signature cheeseburger sliders and innovative modular restaurant concept to new communities.

The Marietta community will soon experience the hype of Smalls Sliders. The fast-growing, QSR industry-disrupting cheeseburger slider brand, which serves cheeseburger sliders, seasoned waffle fries, and milkshakes out of a 750-square-foot Smorange-colored shipping container, known as a “Can,” is making its way across Georgia, and Marietta marks Smalls Sliders’ latest drop in the state.  

The Marietta Can will be owned and operated by multi-unit operator Rocky Moore. He is eager to connect with the community and has selected local nonprofit organization PORCH Marietta as his Smalls Town Hero, a coveted honor within the Smalls Sliders brand to be recognized for an individual’s remarkable contributions to the community. PORCH Marietta will be honored at the Can Drop as the location’s hero and play a part in its opening as well. 

PORCH Marietta is a local charitable organization dedicated to supporting families and strengthening the Marietta community through year-round giving initiatives, volunteer-driven programs, and essential resources. By partnering with schools, local leaders, and community members, PORCH Marietta works to ensure that neighbors facing hardship have access to food, household essentials, and compassionate support when they need it most.

Small Sliders holds groundbreaking for East Cobb location

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Toot your own horn—send your East Cobb calendar listings!

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Come and toot your own horn—send us your calendar listings!
The Pope Band recycling event is Saturday.

We’re a week into 2026 and already our calendar listings are starting to fill out in January and beyond. If you’re part of an organization that has events for the public in the East Cobb area, let us know and we’ll help spread the word!

Follow the instructions below on submitting your information, including text, photos, graphics and videos.

Send Us Your News!

Let East Cobb News know what’s going on with your organization, or about any recognitions, to share with the community. We love to get photos and stories like the above, as well as calendar event listings and more.

We want to be the go-to source for all the many ways people in East Cobb are involved in the community.

It’s what we call The Power of Local, and we’d love for you to take part!

Pass along your details/photos/videos/information to: [email protected], and please observe the following guidelines to ensure we get everything properly and can post it promptly.

Send the body of your announcement, calendar item or news release IN TEXT FORM ONLY in the text field of your e-mail template. Reformatting text from PDF, JPG and doc files takes us longer to prepare your message for publication.

We accept PDFs as an accompaniment to your item. Images are fine too, but we prefer those to be JPG files (more than jpeg and png). PLEASE DO NOT send photos inside a PDF or text or any other kind of file, but d0 send them as attachments to your email.

Of course, send us links that are relevant to your message so we can direct people to your website.

Thanks for your cooperation and we look forward to hearing from you!

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Gritters Library to display KSU exhibit on anti-Semitism

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Gritters Library to display KSU exhibit on anti-Semitism

A traveling exhibit on anti-Semitism prepared by the Kennesaw State University Museum of History and Holocaust Education will be on display through the end of the month at the Gritters Library (880 Shaw Park Drive) in Northeast Cobb.

“(En)Countering Antisemitism in Every Age” (more information here) will be on display during regular opening hours at Gritters from Friday, Jan. 9, through Wednesday, Jan. 28.

According to information provided by the Cobb County Public Library System, “the exhibit helps viewers understand the history of antisemitism in the United States and ask themselves what they can do to combat hate.”

The exhibit is being held in conjunction with International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Monday, Jan. 26. A special program will be held at Gritters that day from 1-2 p.m.

 

 

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Cobb officials propose relocating East Cobb Library branch

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East Cobb Library replacement proposed on 2028 SPLOST list

A replacement for the East Cobb Library branch at Parkaire Landing Shopping Center is being proposed in the initial project list for an extension of the current Cobb Special Purpose-Local Option Sales Tax.

According to the project list for the proposed 2028 SPLOST (you can read it here), which was submitted by county government department heads, Cobb library officials want to construct a new facility at a cost of $25 million.

The East Cobb Library branch, which has been at Parkaire since 2010, is the only branch in the system that leases space. Cobb government spokesman Ross Cavitt said the county spends $360,000 a year in rental fees for the East Cobb Library.

Cobb officials next week will begin public meetings on the proposed 2028 SPLOST, which would have to be approved by voters in a referendum in November. The first of those meetings is next Thursday at the Tim D. Lee Senior Center in East Cobb.

In response to a request for information from East Cobb News, Cavitt said Wednesday that the county wants to relocate the East Cobb Library to “a freestanding facility on county property” and vastly expand the space for what’s become the second-largest circulating library in the system.

He said a new location is still undetermined, but that the county is looking at several options.

Cavitt said that the 20-year lease at the Parkaire space ends in July 2029, and that “costs related to the lease of this space have increased exponentially throughout the span of the lease.”

Eight years ago, the rent was $263,000 a year, and was one of the reasons cited by Commissioner JoAnn Birrell in 2017 in recommending the branch be closed due to county budget cuts.

Parkaire Landing is managed by Jamestown LP, a commercial real estate management company that also operates Avenue East Cobb, Colony Square, Avalon and Ponce City Market.

The East Cobb Library has 17,000 square feet of space, and includes study and meeting rooms as well as a community meeting space. Cavitt said the plans are to expand that space.

“To better serve the community today and into the future, a new facility is needed. To meet the needs of future growth, this permanent facility is proposed at 28,000 square feet.”

The East Cobb Library had more than 132,000 patron visits in 2024, trailing only the main Switzer branch in Marietta.

“It’s one of our more popular locations,” Cavitt said of the East Cobb Library. “Those who use it are very passionate about it.”

Public outcry surfaced quickly after Birrell’s proposal to close the branch, and then-Commissioner Bob Ott vowed that wouldn’t happen.

The East Cobb Library formerly was located in the Merchant’s Walk Shopping Center, and opened near what is now the Seed restaurant in 1979.

The Merchant’s Walk redevelopment company paid the county to relocate the library to Parkaire; high land prices were cited at the time for leasing space for the East Cobb Library instead of building anew.

The 2028 SPLOST would continue the one-percent sales tax collections for a variety of projects, including roads and transportation, public safety facilities, parks and libraries upgrades and maintenance and more.

Cobb commissioners would have to vote to call for a referendum, and Cavitt said that such a vote could come as early as April.

That’s when county officials and leaders from Cobb’s seven cities will have to finalize their project lists.

The public meetings that continue through March 10 also will help finalize the project list. Another such meeting in the East Cobb area will be Jan. 29 at the Fullers Recreation Center.

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East Cobb Food Scores: Ducks; Ming’s; Whataburger; more

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East Cobb Restaurant Update: Ducks Burger Bar relocating

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

American Deli
1230 Powers Ferry Road, Suite 8
Dec. 31, 2025, Score: 91, Grade: A

Auggie’s Lucky Tacos
1951 Canton Road, Suite 340
Jan. 6, 2026, Score: 100, Grade: A

Bar 44
2755 Canton Road
Jan. 5, 2026, Score: 89, Grade: B

Berry Fruity (inside LA Fitness)
4400 Roswell Road, Suite 126
Jan. 8, 2026, Score: 91, Grade: A

Canton Cooks (re-inspection)
2063 Canton Road
Jan. 7, 2026, Score: 92, Grade: A
Previous inspection: Dec. 12, 2025, Score: 74, Grade: C

Deli Grill and Brazilian Bakery
2610 Delk Road
Jan. 5, 2026, Score: 87, Grade: B

China Dynasty
3605 Sandy Plains Road, Suite 105
Dec. 30, 2025, Score: 80, Grade: B

Ducks Burger Bar
2100 Roswell Road, Suite 2114
Dec. 30, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Johnboy’s Home Cooking
3050 Canton Road
Jan. 8, 2026, Score: 75, Grade: C

Levant Oven
1275 Powers Ferry Road, Suite 130
Dec. 30, 2025, Score: 100, Grade: A

Ming’s Asian Kitchen
4665 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 101
Jan. 8, 2026, Score: 100, Grade: A

Tropicups Bakery
2525 Shallowford Road, Suite 100
Jan. 8, 2026, Score: 100, Grade: A

Whataburger
3550 Sandy Plains Road
Jan. 8, 2026, Score: 95, Grade: A

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Mt. Bethel ES teacher recognized for mathematics excellence

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Mt. Bethel ES teacher recognized for mathematics excellence

Submitted information and photo:

As teachers in Cobb Schools continue to go above and beyond to provide students the best learning environment possible, one educator in particular stands out. 

Heather Mullins of Mount Bethel Elementary recently earned the Excellence in Teaching Mathematics award from the Georgia Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Every year, one teacher from the elementary, middle, and high school levels is selected, and this year, Cobb Schools was proudly represented thanks to Mullins’s hard work. 

“One of Heather’s strengths is her ability to create a safe classroom environment where all students feel important and loved. She encourages active participation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Her passion for mathematics is infectious and has led other teachers across the county to have a joy for math when they visit her classroom, said the Georgia Council of Teachers in Mathematics.

To be eligible for this award, educators must have taught math for at least three years in Georgia, show evidence of growth in the teaching of mathematics, have a strong content foundation in mathematics appropriate for the teaching level, and be a member of the GCTM.

Due to her state achievement, Mullins was recognized by Cobb’s Board of Education during the December meeting.

With 13 awardees, Cobb Schools has the most recipients in the history of this award across elementary, middle, and high school, dating back to 2006 when the award first began. 

To learn more about the award and how to nominate a teacher for next year, click HERE for more information. 

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Republicans to continue leadership of Cobb school board

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Cobb school board chairman Randy Scamihorn
Randy Scamihorn

In predictable 4-3 partisan votes Tuesday, the Cobb Board of Education will once again have two Republican members in leadership roles in 2026.

During an organizational meeting that took less than 10 minues, the four GOP members voted for Randy Scamihorn to serve as chair and outgoing chair David Chastain to serve as vice chair.

The elections are required at the start of every calendar year and any board member can be nominated for either role. But the chair cannot serve successive terms.

Democratic board member Tre’ Hutchins was nominated for both posts by fellow Democratic member Becky Sayler, but he received only three votes each.

Hutchins nominated Republican Brad Wheeler to serve as chair, but Wheeler declined.

There was no discussion before the votes were cast. The board also approved the 2026 meeting calendar (click here).

Scamihorn, a Republican from Post 1 in Northwest Cobb, is a retired Cobb school teacher and administrator, and will be serving as chairman for the fifth time since he was first elected in 2012.

Republican John Cristadoro of Post 5 in East Cobb, who served as vice chair last year in his first year on the board, nominated Scamihorn to serve as chair but was not nominated for a leadership post.

In October, Cristadoro and his marketing company settled a lawsuit in Fulton County with a former client who alleged he misused $250,000 meant and advertising campaign.

Sayler had asked for a hearing to determine to determine if Cristadoro violated the school board’s code of ethics. But as chairman, Chastain said the board had no authority to take any action.

Scamihorn was last chairman in 2024, and has been a vocal and at times combative supporter of decisions made by the Republican majority and the leadership of Cobb County School District Superintendent Chris Ragsdale.

Two years ago, as he faced re-election, Scamihorn pushed back against critics who claimed the district wasn’t doing enough to tighten security in wake of the deadly shootings at Apalachee High School in Winder.

The chair controls the meetings and has the power, along with the superintendent, to unilaterally place items on the meeting agendas. Other board members must get a majority of their colleagues to approve agenda items.

That’s been a flashpoint of partisan contention on the school board in recent years. Republicans held a 6-1 majority until 2018, when their margins were reduced to 4-3.

Since then, the GOP members have voted to change board policies to prohibit board members from offering comment at meetings. Board members also have squabbled over school board redistricting and accreditation along the same partisan lines.

Last July, the board voted to discontinue airing public comment from citizens in a measure proposed by Ragsdale, who did not consult board members beforehand, and that prompted critics to complain was an attempt to quash dissenting views.

Chastain, from Post 4 in Northeast Cobb, is one of three board members—and the only Republican—whose terms expire at the end of this year.

He has indicated he will be seeking a fourth term. Michael Garza, a frequent critic of the board’s leadership, is the only Democrat thus far who has announced he will be running for that seat.

The school board will hold its first regular meetings of 2026 on Jan. 22.

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Cobb PARKS to debut Renaissance Faire event at The Art Place

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Submitted information:Cobb PARKS to debut Renaissance Faire event at The Art Place

Hear ye, hear ye! A grand decree, a historic affair for all to see! Mark thy calendars don’t be late, Cobb’s noble gathering – save the date!

We are excited to announce an inaugural Cobb County Public Services’  Renaissance Faire taking place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Mountain View campus in Marietta, Georgia. This new event is being presented by Cobb PARKS in collaboration with Cobb Libraries and Senior Services, and is designed as a fun, single-day family-friendly prelude to the Georgia Renaissance Festival in Fairburn.

Our goal is to bring the sights, sounds, and activities of the Renaissance era closer to home—right here in our own community. We envision an afternoon filled with demonstrations, performances, food, crafts, and interactive activities that showcase the spirit of the era.

Currently we are looking for a variety of vendors and artists for our artisan market, food court area, and demonstration section. If you would like to sell at our event, please follow the links below.

  • Applications will be juried and due to limited room available we will not be able to accept everyone.
  • Acceptance emails will be sent out in January, with the final cutoff date for entering an application on February 1st. Due to limited room, applications may close sooner.
  • The $10 application fee must be paid through CivicRec using the link below or paid in person at The Art Place. There is no booth fee.
  • No tents, chairs, or tables will be provided. There will be no power supply for artisan market vendors. If you are accepted, you are guaranteed a 10×10 spot only.
  • This event will occur rain or shine. Please plan accordingly.
  • Please read the vendor application and rules thoroughly. Noncompliance with Cobb County’s guidelines will not be tolerated.

If you are a local club, business, restaurant, or organization, we would love to have you! Reach out through our email [email protected].

We hope you’ll join us in making this first Faire a unique and memorable event for all.

For vendor application forms, more information and updates, visit the Renaissance Faire website.

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Cobb to hold public meetings on proposed 2028 SPLOST

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Cobb to hold public meetings on proposed 2028 SPLOST
2022 SPLOST funding was used to resurface Robinson Road.

Cobb County government will next week begin a series of what it’s calling community engagement meetings for a proposed Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax referendum later this year.

The first meeting on the proposed 2028 SPLOST takes place next Thursday, Jan. 15, from 6-8 p.m., at the Tim D. Lee Senior Center (3332 Sandy Plains Road) in East Cobb. Another is scheduled for Jan. 29, also from from 6-8 p.m., at the Fullers Recreation Center (3499 Robinson Road).

The meetings are a chance for the public to express their preferences on projects that would be funded with the tax.

The SPLOST collects sales-tax revenues for a variety of projects, including roads and transportation, public safety facilities, parks and libraries upgrades and maintenance and more.

A vote to extend the one-percent sales tax would take place later this year, with collections to begin in 2028. Cobb commissioners would have to vote to call for a referendum.

Last year, county officials asked commissioners to consider to have such a vote, although key details, such as a collection amount and a collection period, were not specified.

According to an overview, a proposed amount for the 2028 SPLOST would last for six years and collect $1.15 billion, if approved by voters.

That would be the largest SPLOST collection in any single period; the current Cobb 2022 SPLOST is expected to collect $750 million over six years.

A project list submitted by county department heads (you can read it here) includes several proposed transportation improvements in East Cobb:

  • Shallowford Road at McPherson Road ($3.5 million)
  • Canton Road at Canton Road Connector ($6 million)
  • Lower Roswell Road at Old Paper Mill Road ($1.5 million)
  • Johnson Ferry Road Corridor ($2.5 million)
  • Shaw Road Corridor ($2 million)

Here’s the full schedule for the upcoming community engagement meetings for the proposed 2028 SPLOST:

  • Jan. 15  – Tim D. Lee Senior Center, 3332 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta
  • Jan. 21 – Public Safety Training Center (Mableton, Austell, Powder Springs), 2435 East-West Connector, Austell
  • Jan. 22 – Public Safety Training Center (Mableton, Austell, Powder Springs), 2435 East-West Connector, Austell
  • Jan. 29  – Fullers Recreation Center, 3499 Robinson Road NE, Marietta
  • Feb. 5  – West Cobb Senior Center, 4915 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs
  • Feb. 12  – Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee Street, Acworth
  • Feb. 25  – Smyrna Community Center, 1250 Powder Springs Street, Smyrna
  • March 5  – Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway SE, Marietta
  • March 10  – Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive, Kennesaw

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Registration begins for Cobb Senior Services winter classes

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Submitted information:

Kick off the new year with Cobb County Senior Services! Registration for winter classes opens 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 12 and offers plenty of options for adults 55 and older to stay active, engaged, and connected this season.

The winter lineup includes fitness and wellness, arts, technology, and more. Whether you’re looking to try something new or continue a favorite hobby, there’s something for everyone.

Among the offerings are fitness and exercise classes, Spanish, Tai Chi, strength training and cardio, pilates and yoga, and more. 

The locations include the Tim D. Lee Senior Center in East Cobb; for details on classes there please click here.

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Keep Cobb Beautiful Christmas tree recycling event extended

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Keep Cobb Beautiful Christmas tree recycling begins Dec. 26

Submitted information:

Still have your Christmas tree? Keep Cobb Beautiful has extended its Bring One for the Chipper recycling event through Jan. 10 at various locations throughout Cobb County.

Before dropping off your tree, please remove all ornaments, lights, tinsel, and bases. Wreaths, garlands, and other items will not be accepted.

Drop-off locations (Home Depot):

  • 3355 Cobb Parkway, Acworth
  • 1200 East-West Connector, Austell
  • 2350 Dallas Highway, Marietta
  • 4101 Roswell Road NE, Marietta
  • 449 Roberts Court NW, Kennesaw
  • 3605 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta
  • 1062 Richard Sailors Parkway, Powder Springs
  • 1655 Shiloh Road, Kennesaw
  • 2450 Cumberland Parkway SE, Atlanta.

You can also drop your tree off at Fullers Park through Jan. 10 at 3499 Robinson Road, Marietta (lot down the street).

 

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Republican announces bid for Cobb Commission District 3

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Republican announces bid for Cobb Commission District 3

Updated Friday, Jan. 9, 5:30 p.m.:

Birrell told us Friday she is running again and is making her announcement official on Saturday.

Original story:

Chris Wasserman, the head of an Atlanta-based executive talent search firm, has announced he’s running for the District 3 seat on the Cobb Board of Commissioners.

Wasserman, a Republican who is seeking elected office for the first time, said he’s running to “change the direction” of the Democratic-led commission or else “homeowners will certainly face even more property tax increases and more poor County planning. I’m running because we need fresh leadership and new energy to fight for us.”

The District 3 seat, which includes most of East Cobb, has been held since 2010 by Republican JoAnn Birrell, who has not indicated whether she’ll seek re-election. Her fourth term ends at the end of 2026.

Wasserman is the first Republican to announce; Democrat Kevin Redmon announced last fall he would be seeking the District 3 post.

Party primaries in the 2026 elections are May 19. Wasserman’s campaign website can be found by clicking here.

Democrats hold a 3-2 majority on the Cobb commission, and both seats held by Republicans will be decided this year.

Wasserman is the CEO of Wasserman Talent Solutions, which in 2025 was included on the Forbes 5000 list of America’s Fastest Growing Companies. The firm also was the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s top small business of the year in 2025,

Wasserman also is a member of the Northeast Cobb Business Association (where Birrell is a former co-president).

In a release issued Monday, Wasserman said that while he appreciate’s Birrell’s service, “it’s time for a change. No one should serve two decades in the same Commission seat. . . . I’m running because we need fresh leadership and new energy to fight for us.”

He said tax, fiscal and government spending issues are his man concern, and that “taxpayers should expect more from their county government for what we pay. I’ll rely on my business experience to bring about efficiency and cost savings. I’ll work to save taxpayer dollars and prevent tax increases.

“Many residents I have spoken with also say they have grown disconnected with the County Government. As our next Commissioner, I’ll restore communication with residents and improve technology to make public information more accessible and easier to find.”

Wasserman, who lives in District 3 with his wife Lily, is a graduate of Osborne High School. He earned a business degree from Georgia Tech with an emphasis on finance and information technology.

Among his community activities includes serving on the board of the East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. Wasserman also has served on the board of the SafePath Child Advocacy Center, The Center for Family Resources and the Tommy Nobis Center.

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East Cobb Biz Update: Craig Automotive closes after 26 years

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East Cobb Biz Update: Craig Automotive closes after 26 years

The owner of Craig Automotive on Lower Roswell Road announced over the weekend that the business has closed, after 26 years.

A social media message written on behalf of owner Tom Craig said that he is retiring, and that a sale will be held this weekend for all of the garage equipment.

The shop specialized in repairs and maintenance for Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

“It is with a heavy heart we are closing the doors to Craig Automotive. With that being said we also say cheers and hello retirement!,” the message stated.

“What started as a small shop grew into much more than a business—it became a place built on trust, hard work, and relationships that I will always be grateful for. I’ve had the privilege of working on your first cars, your family vehicles, and sometimes even your kids’ cars years later. That kind of loyalty and connection is something I never took for granted.”

The equipment sale will take place Friday from 10-3 and Saturday from 9-2 at Craig Automotive (4750 Lower Roswell Road). The items include balancers, a hydraulic press, frion machine, a brake lathe, office equipment and more, and interested buyers are asked to bring cash.

“Thank you for trusting me with your vehicles, for your conversations in the shop, for your referrals, and for allowing me to do what I love right here in East Cobb for over two decades,” Tom Craig’s message continued.

“This community supported me through good times, tough times, and everything in between, and I am deeply thankful for every customer who walked through my doors. While I may be closing this chapter, the memories, friendships, and pride in the work we did here will stay with me forever.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you, East Cobb. It’s been an honor to serve you.”

There also will be a retirement party at the Craig Automotive location Friday, Jan. 16 from 4-7 p.m.

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