Cobb schools FY2025 proposed budget, Sprayberry contract on agenda

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Cobb schools FY2025 proposed budget

The Cobb Board of Education will hear details of the Cobb County School District’s proposed fiscal year 2025 operating budget on Thursday, and hold a public forum on the matter.

According to an agenda preview, the budget presentation will be made at a 1:30 p.m. work session and at the public forum, which starts at 6:30 p.m.

The board’s monthly business meeting will take place at 7 p.m.

Also on the agenda is a recommendation to approve setting a $71.9 million maximum construction price for the replacement of the main classroom building at Sprayberry High School.

All meetings are scheduled for the board room of the Cobb school district’s central office at 514 Glover St. in Marietta. The work session, public forum and business meeting can be seen live on the district’s Boxcast streaming channel and CobbEdTV (channel 24 on Comcast cable and channel 182 on Charter cable).

You can read through the full agenda by clicking here; an executive session will take place after the work session.

An agenda item states the proposed Cobb school budget for FY 2025 is $1.85 billion in expenses, compared to the $1.448 current fiscal year 2024 budget.

No details have been released. The Cobb school district’s fiscal year begins on July 1. Current budget documents can be found by clicking here; that link eventually will include FY 2025 spending details.

Another budget forum will take place on May 16, the date the board is scheduled to finalize the budget.

Watching the Funds-Cobb, a citizens watchdog group that scrutinizes Cobb school district finances, posted a social media message Tuesday asking for an earlier release of budget details before the meeting day.

“Assuming the Board members have been given the budget docs by now, there is no reason to keep them from us so we have a few days to do our due diligence, rather than a few hours,” the message said.

“If they truly respect the taxpayers and are as concerned about our money as [current chairman] Randy Scamihorn recently stated (regarding a fee the County Commissioners are considering), then surely he and the others (especially those up for re-election) can compel the district leaders to honor our request.”

The message urged followers to write to school board members, saying “Let’s make our budget process more transparent and inclusive by giving the public the time they need to engage meaningfully.”

Last year, the Cobb school board lowered the property tax millage rate for the first time in 15 years, from 18.9 mills to 18.7 mills.

That was done in part to offset sharply-increasing property tax assessments. The FY 2024 budget called for full-time employees to receive salary increases between 7.5 percent and 12.1 percent, and the addition of 11 police officers.

The board will hear a recommendation by district staff to award a $71.9 million construction contract to Carroll Daniel Construction of Atlanta for the Sprayberry project.

It’s on the project list of the current Cobb Education SPLOST VI and work is expected to get underway this summer, with the installation of portable classrooms.

Estimated completion is July 2027.

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Former Walton educator named Bartow deputy superintendent

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Christian Suttle, who was a teacher, coach and assistant principal at Walton High School in East Cobb, has been named the deputy superintendent of the Bartow County School System.Former Walton educator named Bartow deputy superintendent

According to an announcement made by Bartow schools, he will begin his duties in June.

Suttle succeeds former Wheeler High School principal David Chiprany, who is retiring.

Suttle currently is an assistant superintendent for the Cobb County School District, overseeing the administration of several high schools, including all six in East Cobb—Kell, Lassiter, Pope, Sprayberry, Walton and Wheeler.

He also was the principal at Hillgrove High School in West Cobb and has 24 years of experience as an educator.

During his tenure at Walton, Suttle was a teacher, and coached football and track and field before becoming athletics director and an assistant principal.

The Bartow announcement said Suttle will be responsible for student learning, achievement and academic support programs. The district has nearly 14,000 students.

“I am ready for this new adventure,” Suttle said in the Bartow announcement. “You will soon see me in your school community and beyond, collaborating with our business and faith-based communities to further strengthen the academic foundation and provide world-class opportunities for our children.”

Chiprany left Cobb for Bartow in 2018, serving as chief academic officer for a year before becoming that district’s first deputy superintendent. He has been a professional educator for 30 years.

Suttle graduated from high school in Birmingham, Ala., in 1993 and attended Kentucky State College and Miles College, also in Birmingham, where he played football and earned a degree in elementary education.

Suttle is a member of the Miles College Sports Hall of Fame. He lives in Dallas, Ga., with his wife Cappie, and their children Tatiana, Brennen, Mason, Connor and Grant.

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Marietta food non-profit to hold Avenue East Cobb fundraiser

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Marietta food non-profit to hold fundraiser at Kendra Scott

Submitted information and photo:

PORCH-Marietta, an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to reducing food insecurity, is excited to announce its upcoming fundraiser in partnership with Kendra Scott Jewelry. The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 5 from 3-5 PM at Kendra Scott Jewelry at Avenue East Cobb, in time for Mother’s Day and graduation shopping.

The store will donate 20% of its proceeds to PORCH-Marietta to support their PORCH for Schools program. Through this initiative, PORCH provides healthy snacks for students in local Title 1 schools so they can stay fueled up and ready to learn all day. Hungry students can’t focus on learning, and teachers shouldn’t have to pay for students’ snacks themselves.

“Every customer who mentions PORCH on 5/5 will make a positive impact on the lives of local students,” said Liz Platner, chapter leader of PORCH-Marietta. “We had funds to support 9 Cobb County and Marietta City schools in January and we hope to raise enough money to provide for these schools again next semester.”

“We invite the Marietta community to join us for a day of shopping with a purpose,” Platner added. “Together, we can make a significant difference towards reducing food insecurity in our neighborhood.”

Those who can’t get to the store can make a tax-deductible contribution at https://porchcommunities.org/porch-marietta/donate. Businesses interested in becoming a PORCH for Schools sponsor can reach out for more information.

PORCH Communities was started in 2011 in Chapel Hill, and there are now over 550 neighborhoods in 10 states serving their local communities. PORCH chapters have gathered and distributed more than $12.5 million worth of food to neighbors in need. The PORCH-Marietta chapter was founded in February 2022.

Contributing non-perishable food to 6 local food pantries on a monthly basis is the flagship program of PORCH-Marietta. To date, PORCH-Marietta has donated over 64,000 pounds of food to these pantries. They collect food via monthly neighborhood food drives, based on customized wish lists from the pantries. Neighbors put the requested groceries out on their porch and volunteers pick it up and deliver it to the pantries. Currently there are 50 Marietta neighborhoods participating. To add your neighborhood to the team, contact  marietta@porchcommunities.org.

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‘Votestock’ Democratic event includes East Cobb candidates

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Four Democrats seeking public office in the U.S. Congress and Georgia legislature in the north metro Atlanta area will appear at a political “festival-style concert” in Woodstock on Sunday.

Cobb parents ask for more inclusivity
Michael Garza

They’re clients of a new Democratic-aligned campaign consulting firm, FTR Strategies of Roswell, and three are seeking offices that include the East Cobb area.

What’s being called “Votestock” takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Woodstock Arts Event Green (111 Elm St., Woodstock), ahead of the May 21 Georgia primaries.

The event includes family-friendly activities; live music from local rock band Rodeo Drive; locally sourced food; and booths offering information about local businesses, campaigns, and other involvement opportunities.

The candidates include Antonio Daza, a candidate for District 11 in the U.S. House; Micheal Garza, who is running for State House District 46; J.D. Jordan, who’s on the ballot for State Senate District 46; and Tracy Verhoeven, a candidate for State Senate District 21.

Daza, who lives in Atlanta, is running against Republican U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk of the 11th District for the second time.

That district was redrawn in January by the legislature to include most of East Cobb, portions of Atlanta and Cherokee County and Bartow County.

Garza, who’s a frequent critic of the Cobb County School District, also is challenging GOP incumbent John Carson of Northeast Cobb and south Cherokee for the second time in three years.

Jordan, of Roswell, is running against Republican Sen. John Albers of District 56, which includes some of East Cobb.

Senate District 21, where Verhoeven is running, is represented by GOP Sen. Brandon Beach and includes parts of Cherokee and north Fulton.

“Woodstock is rapidly growing, vibrant, and a great area to hold a festive event,” Mo Pippin, co-owner of FTR Strategies, said in a release.

“Our hope is to highlight this area as a whole, spread awareness about the election next month, and make Democratic voters feel more united in an area that has traditionally supported conservative candidates.”

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Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance Adopt-A-Mile cleanup sets record

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Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance Adopt-A-Mile cleanup sets record

Submitted information and photo:

More volunteers than ever before participated in Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance’s (PFCA) Spring Adopt-a-Mile cleanup on April 13. Topping last fall’s record 18 volunteers, 25 enthusiastic people from area neighborhoods and businesses turned out for the Saturday morning event. The cleanup was held with the support of Keep Cobb Beautiful, Kroger and Take 5 Oil Change.

The non-profit community group has organized cleanups twice a year in the spring and fall since 2013. The PFCA is composed of individuals, HOAs and businesspeople working together for the betterment of the general area of Powers Ferry and Terrell Mill in East Cobb County.

The volunteers gathered at the Kroger Fuel Center parking lot at 1310 Powers Ferry Rd., then fanned out along Powers Ferry and Terrell Mill Rd. to pick up trash. In just 90 minutes, they collected enough litter to fill 52 trash bags, also a record number, and additionally removed several illegal stick signs from the roadways.

“We are so pleased with the support from Kroger and Take 5 as well as from Custom Signs Today that donated multi-use signage items last fall, and we hope that more businesses along this corridor will recognize the efforts of these volunteers to spruce up the area and help it look its best,” said Patti Rice, PFCA president. “This cleanup is just one of many ways the PFCA advocates for and supports businesses and neighborhoods. We are a powerful voice for the community, and events like this show our volunteers in action.”

In support of the event, Kroger donated refreshments for the volunteers, and several employees from Take 5 participated in the cleanup. 

“We love the community and love coming out and seeing everybody support this effort,” said Christopher Clark, Take 5 store manager.

“I like volunteering, and I like keeping my neighborhood looking nice,” said Homer Wheeler of the Valencia Hills neighborhood. Wheeler is also a regular participant in the PFCA Adopt-a-Mile cleanups.

Communities represented at the event included the Flats at Riverwalk, Greyfield, River’s Call, Riverstone at Wildwood, Riverwalk at Wildwood, Terrell Mill Estates and Valencia Hills.

“I wanted to contribute to my neighborhood,” said Gerry Wyckoff, a resident of the Greyfield subdivision and a first-time Adopt-a-Mile volunteer.

“We doubled our adopted stretch of Powers Ferry Road during this past year, and our team continues to be amazed at the increasing turnout of volunteers,” said Kedrick Green, PFCA’s Adopt-A-Mile coordinator. “We hope every business that benefited from this cleanup will appreciate this effort and support the PFCA by becoming a member.” 

The Keep Cobb Beautiful Adopt-A-Mile program is a partnership that allows individuals and groups to improve the appearance of their communities. Learn more at https://powersferryca.com/adopt-a-mile-cleanup.html or email volunteer@powersferryca.com.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: Paint-by-numbers marketing; new openings

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East Cobb Biz Scene
Discarded paint supplies are loaded up at the Pope Band recycling event.

Small businesses know they have to be creative to stand out in a crowded, competitive marketplace.

For paint store owner John Gregory, it made perfect sense for his in.SIDE.out stores to be present at the Pope Band recycling event Saturday at the Northeast Cobb YMCA (he provided the photos to us as well).

in.SIDE.out—which has two stores in East Cobb, was a sponsor of the event, and helped carry away unwanted paint from customers dropping off all kinds of other household items.

Gregory’s stores specialize in selling Benjamin Moore brands, and he has a color consultant available for customers who want specialized assistance in getting the right look, whether it’s inside or out.

He’s holding customer appreciation events at his East Cobb stores in the coming week: This Tuesday, April 16, from 11-2 at the Merchants Walk store (4235 Merchants Walk Drive), with lunch items from Marlow’s Tavern. Next Tuesday, there will be a similar event at the Parkaire store (4880 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 135), also from 11-2.

Business partners and key vendors will on hand for product demonstrations, education and for other information,

He opened the Parkaire store in 2016 (next store to Johnny’s Pizza), but outgrew that space and needed to expand. Not wanting to relocate completely, another in.SIDE.out opened at Shoppes the Merchants Walk (an outparcel near Whole Foods) in 2022.

Benjamin Moore is a national paint retailer but the stores are locally owned and operated.

“The difference is we’re your neighbors,” said Gregory, who has a third store in Alpharetta. “We aim to provide a better level of service.”

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The Dog Stop opens

The Dog Stop, a national franchise dog care brand, has opened a store at 1355 Roswell Road (East Cobb store website), in the Town and Country Shopping Center.

The owners are local entrepreneurs Anne Bailey and Connor Moore, who first met while getting their Executive MBAs at Emory University.

“We chose The Dog Stop because we wanted to invest in a franchise that we would enjoy being a part of,” Moore said in a release. “We both own dogs, love the pet owner demographic and YOY increase in spending on pet care services, and we were impressed with the corporate team after meeting them during our discovery week.”

The Dog Stop was formed in 2009 and provides dog care services and products, covering behavior, nutrition and grooming. Dog daycare and boarding services are available, and the retail product line includes food, treats, toys, accessories and health/medical items.

Hours are Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 10-4.

Music By Tritone Expands

Music by Tritone, which provides private music lessons, coaching and recording services to student musicians, has opened a studio in East Cobb (4343 Shallowford Road, Building B, Suite 110).

It’s the third such location (Roswell, Alpharetta/Johns Creek) for Music by Tritone, which formed in 2002. It’s also  collaborating with the Roswell Cultural Arts Center and on Saturday will debut there with the Tritone Youth Orchestra in a special concert: Tickets and details at www.roswellcac.showare.com.

The show is entitled “80s Classic Time Machine: A Symphonic Journey from Rock to Classical.”

“Music By Tritone elevates the music lesson and performance experience with an individualized approach that connects musicians of all ages. Expanding further into the neighborhoods of north metro Atlanta helps us share music with more families,” Joshua K. Chari, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Music By Tritone, said in a release. “We are especially grateful to the Roswell Cultural Arts Center for this new collaboration, and the tremendous opportunity to engage and connect with the music community.”

In addition, Music by Tritone (website here) also offers summer camps and workshops.

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Cobb Police Citizens Academy accepting applications through April 29

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Submitted information:Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

The Cobb County Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing its 2024 Citizens Public Safety Academy session.  This 16-week program allows Cobb County citizens to obtain insider insight into the various entities that comprise the Department of Public Safety. During the course, participants will gain knowledge and insight into how the Police, Fire, Animal Services, and 911 departments are organized and the important role each one plays in fulfilling the myriad of tasks that ensure the safety of all the citizens of Cobb County. 

To participate, interested citizens should live in Cobb County or work for Cobb County Government or Schools and be at least 21 years of age.

The Academy starts Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, at 6 PM at the Cobb County Public Safety Police Training Academy at 2435 East-West Connector, Austell, GA, 30106-8196. To be accepted into the program, applicants must fill out an application. This application can be emailed to you or picked up in person at the DPS Training Center located at 2435 East-West Connector, Austell, GA 30106-8196. The application must be taken to the Cobb County Public Safety Internal Affairs Department at 545 S. Fairground St., Marietta, GA  30060, by Friday, April 29th, 2024, at 3 PM. It is suggested to bring your driver’s license with you as they will need to make a copy of your license for the application process.

The academy may fill quickly if necessary, so wait-listed applications will be held for the 2025 program.  Please provide a phone number if you do not have an email address. On the first night of the Citizens Academy, we will meet at the Cobb County Public Safety Police Training Academy, 2435 East West Connector, Austell, GA, 30106-8196. Participants will meet some of the Training staff and receive a presentation from one of our various units. Please note the first night begins at 6:00 PM, and all subsequent sessions will meet at 6:30 PM at various Cobb County Public Safety locations. Classes will be conducted every Tuesday evening for 16 weeks, with graduation being the 16th week. 

A few of the planned activities include:

  • Meeting with distinguished members of the Public Safety Department
  • Touring the 911 Communications Center and the Medical Examiner’s Office
  • Receiving demonstrations from DPS Police Training on weapons/firearms safety and defensive tactics.
  • Participating in classes from the Fire Department special operations, i.e., Hazardous Materials, Heavy Rescue Squad.

The complete schedule will be given out on the first night, along with other information.

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, March 25-29, 2024

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Alpine Forest, East Cobb real estate sales
Alpine Forest

The following East Cobb residential real estate sales were compiled from agency reports. They include the subdivision name, high school attendance zone and sales price:

March 25

602 Glen Ivy Unit 6, 30062 (Glen Ivy, Marietta): $395,000

2467 Cedar Brook West, 30067 (Cedar Canyon, Wheeler): $287,500

599 Powers Ferry Road, 30067 (Forest Ridge, Wheeler): $365,000

1676 Cedar Bluff Way, 30062 (Cedar Bluff, Wheeler): $249,000

30 Briar Gate Lane, 30066 (Big Shanty Plantation, Sprayberry): $165,000

595 Shannon Drive, 30066 (Addison Heights, Sprayberry): $415,000

4560 Windsor Oaks Court, 30066 (Windsor Oaks, Lassiter): $600,000

318 Declaire Way, 30067 (Lafayette Square, Walton): $930,000

4595 Chattahoochee Court, 30067 (Chattahoochee Plantation, Walton): $1.1 million

March 26

3305 Pinot Court, 30062 (Harlin, Pope): $1.1 million

4474 Huffman Drive, 30075 (Haven Ridge, Pope): $925,000

1212 Rio Court, 30066 (Rio Montana, Sprayberry): $402,000

4505 Paper Mill Road, 30067 (Paper Mill Road @ ACC, Walton): $900,000

3980 Riverlook Parkway Unit 302, 30067 (Willows by the River, Walton): $292,200

3676 Sope Creek Farm, 30067 (Sibley Forest, Wheeler): $1 million

597 Parliament Street, 30066 (Downing Street of Town Center, Sprayberry): $485,000

3559 Sawmill Terrace, 30062 (Hickory Bluff, Pope): $385,000

March 27

4787 North Circle, 30066 (North Landing, Kell): $418,870

773 Belerose Lane, 30068 (Robinson Park, Wheeler): $720,000

1851 Kerry Creek Drive, 30066 (Kerry Creek, Sprayberry): $455,000

2457 Freydale Road, 30067 (Red Oak Park, Wheeler): $350,000

371 Clear Spring Court, 30068 (Weatherstone, Wheeler): $380,000

2994 Octavia Circle, 30062 (Vestavia Estates, Walton): $1.599 million

1479 Heritage Glen Drive, 30068 (Heritage Glen, Walton): $640,000

2503 Oakrill Road, 30062 (Cedar Forks, Pope): $385,000

2586 Alpine Trail, 30062 (Alpine Forest, Pope): $680,000

3330 Alexis Court, 30066 (Carrington Place, Sprayberry): $400,000

526 Gardenia Lane, 30068 (The Gardens at Parkaire, Walton): $425,000

2739 Chimney Springs Drive, 30062 (Chimney Springs, Pope): $735,000

4520 Parkcrest Court, 30068 (Park Crest, Walton): $599,900

March 28

4932 Kentwood Drive, 30068 (Cobblestone Manor, Walton): $1.45 million

2917 Arabian Place, 30062 (Kings Farm, Pope): $914,017

695 Anderson Walk, 30062 (Barnes Mill Townhouses, Wheeler): $315,000

2121 Blaylock Drive, 30062 (Clydesdale Estates, Wheeler): $723,000

1857 Poinsettia Drive, 30062 (Hasty Acres, Sprayberry): $270,000

2115 Northfield Court, 30066 (North Field, Sprayberry): $399,000

1740 Aleta Drive, 30066 (Village North, Sprayberry): $550,000

2539 Waterstone Way, 30062 (Autumn Lake, Sprayberry): $430,000

4231 Saint Moritz Court, 30062 (Alpine Lakes, Pope): $865,000

2900 Connie Street, 30062 (Rolling Acres, Pope): $800,000

4010 Mansion Drive, 30062 (Mar-Lanta, Pope): $500,000

3400 Dry Creek Road, 30062 (Hickory Bluff, Pope): $500,000

3406 Vandiver Drive, 30066 (North Forty, Sprayberry): $410,000

4057 Norsworthy Way, 30062 (Woodbine Station, Lassiter): $455,000

March 29

2757 Twisted Oak Lane, 30066 (Tanglewood Estates, Lassiter): $1.55 million

800 Exposition Point, 30067 (The Townes at Marietta, Wheeler): $443,480

3322 Acorn Falls Drive, 30062 (The Estates at Davis Ridge, Pope): $1.575 million

2807 Seagrave Way, 30066 (Heritage Manor, Sprayberry): $720,000

1603 Riverview Drive, 30067 (Overlook at Riverview, Walton): $305,000

2441 Woodmere Drive, 30068 (Weatherstone, Wheeler): $530,000

3982 Sentry Walk, 30068 (Indian Hills, Walton): $2.58 million

1194 Cameron Creek, 30062 (Cameron Park, Marietta): $590,000

1370 Murdock Road, 30062 (Roswell Downs, Walton): $480,000

1518 Huntington Drive, 30066 (Huntington Woods, Sprayberry): $370,000

120 Corvette Drive, 30066 (Crestridge, Sprayberry): $385,000

3351 Old Wagon Road, 30062 (Olde Mill Forest, Walton): $650,000

2118 Wyeth Walk, 30062 (Chadds Ford, Pope): $680,000

2485 Kenneth Street, 30066 (Fraser, Sprayberry):#$369,900

1647 Rex Drive, 30066 (Village North, Sprayberry): $435,1000

3429 Windridge Drive, 30066 (Blackwell, Sprayberry): $507,000

3440 Fawn Trail, 30066 (Stags Run, Sprayberry): $549,000

3468 Winter Wood Lane, 30062 (Country Crossing, Pope): $615,000

3441 Chastain Glen Lane, 30066 (Chastain Glen, Sprayberry): $515,000

4051 Silver Fir Court, 30066 (Whitfield Woods, Kell): $550,000

4922 Marlos Drive, 30066 (Cooks Valley, Lassiter): $711,000

2998 Clary Hill Court, 30075 (Clary Lakes, Pope): $800,000

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Cobb Drug Treatment Court celebrates 6 new graduates

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Cobb Drug Treatment Court celebrates 6 new graduates

Submitted information and photo:

Judges, elected officials, community members, court staff, attorneys, family members, and friends packed the Cobb Superior Court Ceremonial Courtroom to congratulate the six newest Cobb County Drug Treatment Court graduates. The graduates, staff, family, and friends shared moments of tears and laughter as they detailed their journey.  The overriding theme was a sense of accomplishment, hope, and excitement for the next chapter of their lives. 

The Drug Treatment Court is an alternative to incarceration for individuals involved in the justice system with a substance use disorder. The 18-24-month program uses a combination of close supervision, individualized evidence-based treatment, and recovery support to hold offenders accountable for their actions and teach them to be productive members of the community. 

One of the graduates shared, “Drug court has changed my life because before the program, I did not think very much of the future. My only goal was to stay out of jail. Now, I feel like the sky is the limit. I have accomplished things that I have only dreamed of.”

Superior Court Judge Kimberly A. Childs presides over the Drug Treatment Court and the multi-disciplinary team administering the program. After the graduation ceremony, she reflected that “these graduates exemplify the need for and importance of an evidence-based recovery and treatment program in our criminal justice system. Our community should be proud of the commitment Cobb County has to helping those with substance use disorder transform their lives. Through the efforts of our dedicated team and with the continued support of our stakeholders, these six graduates are now sober, independent, and productive members of our society.”

For more information about Cobb County Drug Treatment Court, including how to become involved or support the program, please contact Porsha Middlebrook, DTC Coordinator, at 770.528.1933 or porsha.middlebrook@cobbcounty.org.

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Cobb Library System celebrates ‘Library of the Year’ honor

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Cobb Library System celebrates 'Library of the Year' honor
Cobb Library Director Helen Poyer (holding check) with staff. Cobb government photos.

Submitted information and photos:

It was the best of times; It was more of the best of times as the Cobb Library System celebrated being named the 2023 Georgia Library of the Year by the Georgia Public Library Service. In honor of the award, the Board of Commissioners proclaimed April 11, 2024, as Cobb County Public Library Day.

There was even more to celebrate because it’s also National Library Week. We celebrate that Cobb’s libraries provide more services than ever before. They are resource centers, education centers, creative centers and community centers where everyone can come and interact.

Click here to read more about what the library has to offer.

Cobb Library System celebrates 'Library of the Year' honor
Poyer with Cobb commissioners Monique Sheffield (left) and JoAnn Birrell (right) and commission chairwoman Lisa Cupid (second from left).

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East Cobb high school students named 2024 Georgia Scholars

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Students from Sprayberry, Walton and Wheeler high schools in East Cobb were named to the 2024 class of Georgia Scholars by the Georgia Department of Education.Georgia Department of Education, Georgia Scholars East Cobb

The Georgia Scholar program is coordinated by the department in partnership with local districts and schools.

This year they are 177 seniors from across the state “who have achieved excellence in school and community life through the Georgia Scholar program,” according to a release.

The criteria (click here) are set in state law, and includes rigorous academic standards, including course credits, as well as grade-point averages and test scores.

Georgia Scholars also participate in interscholastic activities “and assumed leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools.”

Sprayberry

  • Isabella Sternagle

Walton

  • Emily Baker
  • Omer Inan
  • Daniel Lee
  • Collin Marbutt
  • Olivia Packer
  • Lydia Zang
  • Stephen Zhu

Wheeler

  • Haya Fatmi
  • Venya Gunjal
  • Aashna Kshirsagar
  • Romil Mehta
  • Misha Patel
  • Sameeh Pottayil
  • Shreya Prakash
  • Suchita Vanguri
  • Lilian Tow

“These 177 Georgia students have made our state proud through their stellar efforts in the classroom and in their communities,” Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods said in a release.

“The Georgia Scholar designation is a recognition of their leadership and diligence. I wish them great success as they continue into their futures, and know they will continue to contribute to their communities and to our state.”

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Marietta annexes, rezones Sandy Plains Road subdivision

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Sandy Plains Road home developer seeks Marietta annexation
A wall fronting the Village of Sandy Plains subdivision violated a Cobb County ordinance and resulted in a court dispute.

After losing a legal battle with Cobb County over a subdivision under construction on Sandy Plains Road, the developer of a single-family community has been pursuing annexation with the City of Marietta.

On Wednesday, the Marietta City Council voted to annex the 15-acre property on Sandy Plains near the Scufflegrit Road intersection and rezone it to accommodate a 90-home development.

The rezoning vote passed 4-3, and the vote to annex the property was 5-2.

First Center Inc., part of David Pearson Communities, a residential builder, got RA-6 rezoning from Cobb to build what it’s calling the Village of Sandy Plains.

The planned homes in Marietta will fall under the PRD (planned residential develoopment) category at roughly 6 units an acre, similar to what Cobb allowed.

First Center built out private roads and installed underground utilities while haggling with the county over a wall that fronts Sandy Plains Road.

The Cobb ordinance allowed for only a 6-foot-high wall, but it’s 10 feet in most places and higher in others.

First Center sued the county over the matter, but in February, lost its appeal to the Georgia Supreme Court ruled as it prepared its Marietta annexation request.

The council first heard the matter in March, but voted to hold it after the council’s planning commission recommended denial.

The city zoning staff’s analysis noted that “the developer has provided conflicting zoning plans, site plans, and final plats, none of which appear to fully meet City regulations” and hasn’t provided sufficient information about a number of variances that would be needed.

Kevin Moore, First Center’s attorney, told city council members Wednesday that “there’s a misunderstanding about how high the walls can be in Cobb County.”

He said the county ordinance allows walls to be higher than 10 feet if they are concealing homes from the Main  street.

But he said the reason his client sought annexation was because of higher development standards in Marietta that require four-sided architecture and a limit of only 5 percent of the units being rentals.

An aerial view of the First Center property (outlined in black), is between home developments in Cobb and Marietta.

“There is in fact this already in the city of Marietta and it is highly, highly desired,” Moore said, showing slides of similar developments in existence.

Moore said the property tax benefits to the city would be $640,000 a year.

But a homebuilding company that purchased 41 of the 90 lots from First Center filed an objection.

Lisa Marchower, an attorney for Davidson Homes LLC, said that her client wants to stay with the county, primarily for reasons related to schools.

The annexed property is close to Kincaid Elementary School in the Cobb County School District and is adjacent to some city-zoned residential areas where students attend Marietta City Schools. (Cobb commissioners in November rezoned adjacent property for a 91-home subdivision.)

Marchower said First Center didn’t inform Davidson Homes about seeking annexation with Marietta until well after it had filed paperwork with the city.

“It is the strong preference of the builder, Davidson Homes, that the Village at Sandy Plains Subdivision is not annexed into the City, but rather, remains in Cobb County,” she wrote in a March 7 letter to council members.

She said requiring Davidson Homes to switch and meet city building standards “will significantly increase the cost of building homes in the Village at Sandy Plains Subdivision and will make my client’s home building efforts economically marginal. We have serious concerns about the economic viability of a development at this location that is forced to comply with the standards of the City.”

That letter did not come up Wednesday.

Resident Ben Brewer worried that if students in Village of Sandy Plains have to attend Marietta City Schools, he said, “they’re going to be spending hours on the buses.”

“This is a Cobb County piece of property. Let Cobb County deal with it.”

Others opposed to the annexation said Marietta is getting too much of high-density single-family homes, and that they pose stormwater and traffic issues.

But council members barely discussed the matter and asked only a few questions before casting their votes.

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Temple Kol Emeth synagogue appoints new senior rabbi

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The Temple Kol Emeth synagogue in East Cobb has announced it has hired a new senior rabbi.Temple Kol Emeth synagogue appoints new senior rabbi

Charles Foster has been the Rabbi of Engagement and Learning at jHub, an organization in Cleveland, Ohio that caters to interfaith couples and families exploring Jewish culture and values.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rabbi Foster to Temple Kol Emeth,” TKE president Sandi Davis said in a release. “His dedication to Judaism and impressive track record in advancing growth within Jewish communities make him an excellent fit as the spiritual leader to guide us into the future.”

Foster also has been an assistant Rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel in Houston. He is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio who earned a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University. He also earned a master’s degree in Hebrew literature and ordination from Hebrew Union College in New York City.

“I am honored to join a congregation with a rich history of engaging individuals and families often overlooked in other Jewish spaces,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to partnering with the Temple Kol Emeth family to inspire this community through meaningful spiritual experiences, pathways to a deeper sense of belonging, and nurturing a sense of love and care for all we encounter.”

Foster, who will begin on July 1, succeeds Larry Sernovitz, who left Kol Emeth in March 2023 after three years to take to become chief executive officer of Hillels of Georgia, which ministers to Jewish college students in the state.

Kol Emeth has been led by interim Rabbi Pamela Gottfried for the past. year.

Foster will be the third full-time rabbi in the history of Kol Emeth, a reform synagogue which began in 1981. It was led for many years by Rabbi Steven Lebow, who began an ecumenical Thanksgiving service in the wake of 9/11 that continues today.

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Pope Band to hold recycling fundraiser at NE Cobb YMCA

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Submitted information:Pope Band recycling

ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORT POPE HIGH SCHOOL BAND!
Saturday, April 13, 2024
9:00am – 2:00pm
Northeast Cobb YMCA (next to WALMART)
3010 Johnson Ferry Road, 30062

We accept metal, electronics, appliances, glass, paper shredding while you watch, and we have REDUCED PRICES ON PAINT RECYCLING this year!! DONATION $10 per car + disposal fees. A complete list of fees + more details can be found on our website: http://www.popeband.com/recycle.html

Onsite Payment can be made in cash, credit card, or check payable to PBPA.

Pick-Up services may be offered, WITH ADVANCE RESERVATION, within a 5-mile radius of Pope HS, based on truck and volunteer availability. (Sorry, for your security – NO document pick-ups)!

**RESERVATION IS REQUIRED** for pick up and payment must be made in full by cash or check (no credit cards) at time of pick up. These slots are very limited. To make a reservation for residential or business pick up, please visit our website at http://www.popeband.com/recycle.html

Business Pick-Up Fee: $100 plus any TV, monitor, laptop, large item or paint charges.

Residential Pick-Up Fee. $50 plus any TV, monitor, laptop, large item or paint charges.

Questions? Contact popebandrecycling@gmail.com and/or visit http://www.popeband.com/recycle.html

Also at the Pope Band Recycling event, In.SIDE.Out Paint Centers, with two East Cobb locations, will be holding a customer appreciation event. There will be product demos, education and other information pertaining to paint, including paint disposal.

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East Cobb Food Scores: Bagelicious; Willie Jewell’s; more

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Bagelicious, East Cobb food scores

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

Alumni Cookie Dough
1205 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 118
April 10, 2024 Score: 100, Grade: A

Bagelicious
1255 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 37
April 9, 2024 Score: 90, Grade: A

Biscuits and More
3162 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 130
April 10, 2024 Score: 83, Grade: B

Fuji Hana Steak & Sushi
1255 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 1
April 10, 2024 Score: 91, Grade: A

Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q
2550 Sandy Plains Road
April 9, 2024 Score: 91, Grade: A

Zeus Greek Street Food
2022 Powers Ferry Road, Suite 130
April 11, 2024 Score: 96, Grade: A

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Wheeler students to perform at Woodruff Arts Center concert

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Two students at Wheeler High School will be performing in the Fall Into Spring Finale Concert, which features chamber music selections played by young musicians, at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta later this month.Wheeler students to perform at Woodruff Arts Center concert

The concert is a collaboration of Franklin Pond Chamber Music and the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra and takes place on Sunday, April 28 at 3 p.m.

The Wheeler students, sophomore Angelina Lu, a violinist, and senior Christian Phanhthourath, a cellist, are part of the Eucalyptus Trio, and will be performing Henrietta Renié’s Trio for Harp, Violin, and Cello.

Here’s more from a Franklin Pond release about the event:

Twenty talented middle and high school musicians from six ensembles representing 13 schools from six counties will present some of classical music’s most beloved chamber works, including compositions by Dvořák, Mendelssohn, Clara Schumann, Shubert, Prokofiev, Henrietta Renié and Paul Schoenfield.

The performances by these inspiring young musicians celebrate the ongoing collaboration between FPCM and the Atlanta Youth Symphony Orchestra (AYSO). Several students also play with the Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra (EYSO) and the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO). All these organizations provide students with comprehensive and collegiate-level music education to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

“This event showcases the dedication and incredible work of these talented young musicians, and each year they raise the bar, delivering truly inspiring performances,” said Ginny Fairchild, Franklin Pond program coordinator.

This year there are seven graduating seniors and 12 of the 20 overall participating students are in both FPCM and the ASYO. Two FPCM members are also members of the EYSO and two FPCM members are also in MYSO.

The young musicians are coached and mentored by Franklin Pond’s elite faculty, all members of the Atlanta Symphony or Atlanta Opera Orchestras. They also perform in masterclasses led by internationally renowned guest artists such as the award-winning violinist and chamber player, Itamar Zorman.

The Fall into Spring Finale Concert takes place April 28 at 3 p.m. in the Rich Theatre of Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta. Admission is free and open to the public with no ticket required. Visit FranklinPond.org or call 404-252-3479 for more information.

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East Cobb small businesses honored by Cobb Chamber

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The Music Studio Atlanta East Cobb

Several businesses in East Cobb were named among the Top 25 small businesses of 2024 by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce on Monday.

They include The Music Studio Atlanta, which includes a location at the Pavilions at East Lake on Roswell Road, Janice Overbook Real Estate Team on Sewell Mill Road and Peachtree Hearing on Lower Roswell Road.

They will be honored at the Chamber’s Marquee Monday luncheon at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre at The Battery Atlanta on May 13.

Here’s more about what’s on the agenda:

“The winners are determined by a thorough selection process including applications and site visits by a panel of outside judges. The luncheon will also honor the Small Business Hall of Fame inductees. CDH Partners, the 2023 Small Business of the Year, will be inducted into the Small Business Hall of Fame, joining an elite list of winners spanning over 30 years.

“Tickets to the breakfast are $50 for Cobb Chamber members and are $75 for general admission. Visit www.cobbchamber.org/SBOY for more information and event registration.”

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Cobb to hold first sustainability forum and expo

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Submitted information:

Cobb to hold first sustainability forum and expo

Cobb County will hold its first Sustainability Forum and Expo for the general public 4 – 8 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. The free event will include demonstrations, food, interactive exhibits and guest speakers on green initiatives. Keep Cobb Beautiful will provide the first 100 attendees with a free gift.

Click here for more information.

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10th anniversary of Kettle Krush 5K run/walk set for May 18

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Submitted information:Kettle Krush 5k 10th anniversary

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary will hold its 10th annual Kettle Krush 5K run/walk on May 18 at 8 a.m. in Marietta Square. New this year is a tot trot for children ages 5 and under.

The event strives to “krush” poverty, homelessness and human trafficking while supporting youth enrichment and veterans in metro Atlanta.

Special prizes to the top team with most participants (minimum of 10 participants to be eligible) in five categories – individual, school, business, church and running club. For more information, contact Pam Hendley at pchendley614@gmail.com.

Awards to top overall and Masters male and female winners and medals on ribbons to top three finishers in 16 age categories from 10 & under through 80 & over.

To register online, see https://bit.ly/2024KettleKrush or visit Big Peach Running Co. (1062 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta). Cost to register is $30 (5K) and $25 (tot trot) through May 8. From May 9-15 online or through May 17 at BPRC is $35 (5K) and $30 (tot trot). Race day registration is $40 (5K) and $35 (tot trot).

For questions, please contact dgmenear@gmail.com or Gary Jenkins at pacesetr@bellsouth.net.

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East Cobb Biz Scene: ECBA Expo returns; April biz events

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ECBA Expo

The East Cobb Business Association has announced that its Expo event is returning for the first time since 2021, this time in the spring.

The Expo had been held in the fall, but this year’s event is Wednesday, April 24, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Olde Towne Athletic Club (4950 Olde Towne Parkway).

Businesses that want to exhibit have until April 18 to register. The cost is $200 for ECBA member businesses and $300 for non-members. Any business that wants a premium location will pay $300.

See the accompanying flyer for details. The public is invited to attend, with admission $5 per individual in advance and $10 at the door.

For more information and to register click here.

April speakers

Irene Barton of East Cobb, head of the Cobb Collaborative non-profit, is the guest speaker at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s East Cobb Area Council breakfast on Thursday.

It’s from 7:30- 9 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive) and she’ll be discussing the organization’s focus on mental health, literacy and civic engagement.

Barton was named the East Cobb Citizen of the Year by the East Cobb Area Council. Information and registration by clicking here.

The ECBA’s monthly luncheon is April 16 and the featured speaker is KSU archery professor Yale Nogin, who will speak on how business people can find their targets. The ECBA-sponsored Professional Women of East Cobb luncheon is this Friday. Info and registration for both by clicking here.

The Northeast Cobb Business Association luncheon is April 17 with business consultant Joel Zirkel, who works with the small business development center at KSU. NCBA also sponsors a women’s lunch, coming up on Tuesday, and an Alive After Five networking event on April 25. Info and registration for all by clicking here.

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