GOP-backed Cobb school board redistricting bill signed into law

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Following up last week’s story about a GOP Cobb school board map that passed the Senate; the same bill was approved by the House Monday by a party-line vote and was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Brian Kemp.

GOP-backed Cobb school board redistricting bill passes House
State Sen. Ed Setzler’s Cobb school board electoral map would split the Walton and Wheeler attendance zones. For a larger view click here.

The Georgia legislature was ordered to draw new maps last month by a federal judge as part of a continuing lawsuit alleging that the 2022 maps diluted minority voting strength under the U.S. Voting Rights Act.

The judge, Eleanor Ross, will review the newly approved map.

The 2022 maps pushed most of the East Cobb area (Walton and Wheeler attendance zones) out of Post 6 and into the Cumberland-Vinings-Smyrna area.

That’s one of three posts held by Democrats on the seven-member Cobb Board of Education. Republicans hold a 4-3 majority and three of the GOP-occupied seats expire at the end of this year.

That includes Post 5 in East Cobb, where four-term Republican David Banks is retiring. The new map, sponsored by GOP Sen. Ed Setzler of Acworth would include most of the Wheeler zone in Post 6.

The 2022 maps had Walton, Wheeler and Pope clusters in Post 5, with Kell, and most of the Lassiter and Sprayberry clusters in Post 4, which is represented by Republican David Chastain.

The new maps were introduced despite the objections of the Democratic-majority Cobb legislative delegation. Rep. Teri Anulewics of Smyrna, the delegation chairwoman, has introduced her own maps, and legislation has passed the House.

Democrats contend the Setzler map continues to pack minority voters into limited areas and reduce their political influence.

Qualifying for school board races is in early March, with primaries in May. Thus far Democrat Laura Judge and Republican John Cristadoro, parents in the Walton zone, have announced their candidacies for the Post 5 seat.

(Note: While school board posts are drawn by the legislature, school attendance zones are determined administratively by the Cobb County School District.)

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Jan. 8-12, 2024

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Blackjack Hills, East Cobb real estate sales
Blackjack Hills

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:

Jan. 8

3980 Cliffmont Circle, 30068 (Fairvue at Indian Hills, Walton): $865,000

4205 Cove Court, 30067 (Kings Cove, Walton): $625,000

3702 Hembree Lane, 30062 (Hembree Hills, Pope): $342,000

Jan. 9

Sims Drive, 30066 (Heatherwood, Lassiter): $921,300

3980 Cliffmont Circle, 30068 (Fairvue at Indian Hills, Walton): $825,000

2355 Carrington Way, 30067 (Tuxedo Estates, Wheeler): $310,000

330 Hamilton Court, 30068 (Hamilton Trace Townhomes, Wheeler): $230,000

968 Pine Valley Drive, 30062 (Eastwood Forrest, Sprayberry): $320,000

2476 Sewell Mill Road, 30062 (Walton): $780,000

1045 Plainview Drive, 30066 (Sprayberry): $210,000

3270 Trickum Road, 30066 (Sprayberry): $545,000

3751 Apple Way, 30066 (North Ridge, Sprayberry): $475,000

Jan. 1o

3265 Beechwood Drive, 30067 (Terrell Mill Estates, Wheeler): $637,500

1923 Clearwater Drive, 30067 (Hamby Acres, Wheeler): $279,900

3538 Turtle Cove Court, 30067 (Dover Mitcham, Wheeler): $599,900

969 Bridgegate Drive, 30068 (Bridge Gate, Walton): $729,000

3949 Tall Pine Drive, 30062 (Tall Pines, Walton) $531,000

1980 Trophy Drive, 30062 (Sandy Plains Estates, Sprayberry): $328,500

Jan. 11

3909 Brave Trail, 30062 (North Indian Springs, Pope): $315,000

2326 Wilderness Way, 30066 (Natures Cove, Sprayberry): $450,000

2833 Pine Meadow Drive, 30066 (Pine Meadow, Sprayberry): $350,000

2829 Cobb Place Manor Court, 30066 (Cobb Place Manor, Sprayberry): $290,000

1411 Windburn Drive, 30066 (Shaw Woods, Sprayberry): $290,000

Jan. 12

4251 Columns Drive, 30067 (Columns Drive at Atlanta Country Club, Walton): $1.3 million

1231 Blackjack Court, 30066 (Blackjack Hills, Sprayberry): $490,000

4110 Meadow Way, 30066 (Northwind Meadows, Kell): $368,750

2141 Preswick Drive, 30066 (Tremont, Kell): $470,000

508 Parkaire Crossing, 30068 (Parkaire Crossing, Walton): $250,000

674 Highland Court, 30068 (Wimbledon Place, Walton): $245,000

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Cobb school district opens 2024-25 school choice slots

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Campbell High School lockdown

The Cobb County School District has opened up its annual period for school choice transfers for the following school year.

The deadline to apply for a school choice transfer for the 2024-25 academic year is Feb. 16.

According to the school district, “available space at a school is based on permanent classroom space. In the event that the number of transfer requests exceeds the available capacity of a school, the District will conduct a random lottery.”

Parents have the flexibility to transfer their children under transfer provisions of Georgia’s Quality Basic Education Act.

The following schools in East Cobb have the following availability:

Elementary Schools

  • Blackwell, 140 slots
  • Brumby, 25
  • Davis, 125
  • Keheley, 158
  • Kincaid, 69
  • Mountain View, 56
  • Nicholson, 126
  • Powers Ferry, 59
  • Sedalia Park, 249
  • Shallowford Falls, 266
  • Timber Ridge, 68
  • Tritt, 73

Middle Schools

  • Daniell, 199
  • Mabry, 197
  • McCleskey, 335
  • Simpson, 10

High Schools

  • Kell, 392
  • Lassiter, 33
  • Pope, 30
  • Sprayberry, 150

The full list can be found by clicking here; schools that do not have any seats available are not listed.

The link also has further information on eligibility criteria for the transfer program.

Parents will be informed of transfer approval before spring break, and they must accept an approved transfer by March 29.

For questions about the transfer program, e-mail: Student.Transfers@cobbk12.org.

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Family Cupboard Choice Pantry opened by Center for Family Resources

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Family Cupboard Choice Pantry opens
Photos courtesy The Family Resource Center

Submitted information:

The Center for Family Resources (CFR) is excited to announce the official unveiling of The Family Cupboard Choice Pantry. This revolutionary approach to food distribution is an updated concept to the CFR’s former food pantry, designed to empower families with a personal shopping experience while continuing to emphasize the importance of making healthy and nutritious food choices and getting the most out of their shopping budgets.

There’s a distinct difference between a traditional food pantry and a choice pantry: Regular food pantries pre-pack meals and groceries, limiting shoppers from selecting specific items, while choice pantries grant shoppers the freedom to choose their food items. At The Family Cupboard Choice Pantry, families will enjoy an experience similar to shopping at a regular grocery store. Each food item is assigned a certain number of points, and visiting families will receive a points budget to make their selections.

To enhance the experience, every shopper will be accompanied by one of the CFR’s dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers. These volunteers will provide nutrition information, share good shopping techniques, and offer valuable insights. This interaction not only aids the CFR clients during their trip to The Family Cupboard but also helps them make informed decisions about food, promoting healthier and smarter choices for their families.

“We understand the importance of nourishing the mind, body, and soul, and that’s why our mission is to make every trip to The Family Cupboard a journey toward a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling family life,” says Melanie Kagan, Chief Executive Officer of the CFR. “By enabling families to select their own food, we aim to help reduce food waste, optimize inventory, and utilize funding more efficiently.”

The Family Cupboard opened to the public in January, is available by appointment only, four days a week. To learn more about this exciting new Choice Pantry, click here.

To donate food items, please visit The Family Cupboard Amazon List.

The CFR remains grateful for the continued generosity and commitment of its community. Together, through initiatives like The Family Cupboard Choice Pantry, we can continue to uplift Cobb families and strengthen our community one step at a time.

Family Cupboard Choice Pantry opens

Family Cupboard Choice Pantry opens

Family Cupboard Choice Pantry opens

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East Cobb Food Scores: LongHorn Steakhouse; Verandah; more

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Longhorn opening East Cobb

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

Bells Ferry Elementary School
2600 Bells Ferry Road
January 24, 2024 Score: 100, Grade: A

Cafe Clement
1438 Canton Road
January 26, 2024 Score: 93, Grade: A

Delkwood Grill
2769 Delk Road
January 25, 2024 Score: 82, Grade: B

Empire Care Center
4360 Johnson Ferry Place
January 24, 2024 Score: 97, Grade: A

LongHorn Steakhouse
4370 Roswell Road
January 25, 2024 Score: 91, Grade: A

McCleskey Middle School
4080 Maybreeze Road
January 26, 2024 Score: 100, Grade: A

Mt. Bethel Elementary School
1210 Johnson Ferry Road
January 26, 2024 Score: 100, Grade: A

Starbucks at Kroger East Lake 
2100 Roswell Road, Suite 300A
January 23, 2024 Score: 95, Grade: A

Sunrise at East Cobb
1551 Johnson Ferry Road
January 25, 2024 Score: 90, Grade: A

Verandah Indian Restaurant
3101 Roswell Road, Suite 100
January 24, 2024 Score: 87, Grade: B

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Former Cobb County Manager David Hankerson dies at 77

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Submitted by Cobb County Government:Former Cobb County Manager David Hankerson dies

After his retirement, David Hankerson told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “I never hated to come to work for Cobb; I couldn’t wait. I was always here early, always here late.”

Those who worked with and for him know that is almost an understatement.

Hankerson came to work for Cobb in 1984 and was named County Manager in early 1993. He held that position for 24 years and shepherded county government as it moved from a mixed suburban/rural area to a rapidly growing metropolitan county.

David Hankerson died Thursday after a long illness. He was 77.

Current County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris says Hankerson brought her to Cobb County in 2013.  

“But for Mr. Hankerson, I would not be where I am today,” Dr. McMorris said. “I believe the core values he has instilled in Cobb still resonate to this day, which include integrity, honesty, work hard, show up, and be ready when you show up. He was a giant in Cobb, and his legacy will live on in all of us.”

Chairwoman Lisa Cupid said Hankerson provided needed guidance when she became a district commissioner.

“David was a giant in our county and unmatched in his leadership and service to commissioners, employees, and civic and business leaders,” Chairwoman Cupid said. “I could not have accomplished all I did as a District Commissioner without his support. My prayers go out to David’s family and the Cobb Community during this very difficult time.”

“Today, we lost a gentle giant and exemplary leader of this county,” said District 3 Commissioner JoAnn K. Birrell. “David Hankerson will be remembered fondly for his management style, integrity, and leadership. He was a great mentor, husband, father, son, and friend. Thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP Mr. H.”

David Hankerson acquired a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from Fort Valley State College and a Juris Doctorate from the Woodrow Wilson College of Law. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970 in the Signal Corps, headquartered in Seoul, Korea. Upon his return to Georgia, he was a District Conservationist for the United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service.

He came to Cobb County Government in 1984 and served as manager of the Community Development Department. He was appointed Cobb County Manager on February 1, 1993. 

His last appearance before the Board of Commissioners came in September 2022 to celebrate the county’s 25th year of receiving a triple AAA rating. Hankerson said that had become a priority when he became county manager, and the county achieved that goal just a few years later.

“Triple AAA is about financing, but it’s more than just financing,” Hankerson said. “It’s about leadership, about community relations, and business relationships. We were very proud of that triple AAA rating.”

Hankerson was a Leadership Cobb Alumnus, a graduate of the Regional Leadership Institute, a member of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia General Government and Natural Resources and Environmental Policy Committees, a graduate of the Institute for Georgia Environmental Leadership Class, National Security Forum Alumni and a member of the Marietta Kiwanis Club. 

He served on numerous civic and professional boards. In 2006, Governor Perdue appointed him to the Environmental Advisory Council. In 2008, he became a member of the ICMA Client Advisory Forum, and in 2009, he was invited to serve on The Walker School Board of Directors and The Strand Board of Directors. 

He received numerous awards, including one of five distinguished Georgians to receive an Excellence in Public Service Award for 2004, and in 2005, the Blacks United for Youth/Cobb presented him with the Justice Robert Benham Award for outstanding leadership, service, and total commitment for the equality of all citizens. In 2008, the Senior Citizen Council of Cobb County presented Hankerson with the Community Leader of the Year award. In May 2009, he received the Delta Upsilon Boule Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity Founder’s Day Excellence in Government Award. 

In July 2009, the Board of Commissioners named the Safety Village Education Building in his honor. 2010 awards include the Marietta Daily Journal Citizen of the Year, 100 Black Men of North Metro Image Award, and the Cobb NAACP Hugh Grogan Political Action Award.

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Cobb Library System named Georgia’s ‘Library of the Year’

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East Cobb Library, Cobb budget crisis

Submitted by Cobb County Government:

Cobb County Public Library (CCPL) has been recognized as Library of the Year for its commitment to serving its community by partnering with numerous organizations within its county and statewide, and for efforts to expand access to materials and essential services to its community.

The library serves a population of over 750,000 across 15 branches and is dedicated to being a resource center in the community by providing equal access to information, materials, and services.

“The Cobb County Public Library prides itself with providing excellent, responsive service to enrich people’s lives, support lifelong learning, build and enhance our communities,” said Georgia State Senator Michael Rhett. “The library meets the needs of patrons across school systems, the county, and beyond by providing high quality services for early and adult learning literacy, hotspot and internet access, digital skills training, continuing education, health and wellness offerings, and cultural awareness in 15 branch locations.”

Cobb County Public Library received nomination letters from local elected officials, partnering organizations, school systems, and patrons who highlighted the library’s efforts across the community.

“This library has always been a safe haven and refuge from some of the confusing things about growing up,” said Jesse Quinton, Cobb County Public Library patron of over 15 years. “The library, staff, and other patrons have always been very respectful and helpful of my desire to learn, and I’ve grown here in ways that I might not have been able to if I wasn’t provided this resource.”

“We have a diverse, creative, knowledgeable, innovative, and experienced team that goes above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve,” said Helen Poyer, director of Cobb County Public Library. “Staff are resilient and adapt well to the changing technologies, information needs, and community dynamics. They are public servants who are committed to and passionate about the role they play in promoting literacy at all levels and to all people. It is a joy, a privilege, and an honor to work with such an amazing team.”

The Cobb County Public Library has developed programs and services that enhance its role as a community hub and resource center, partnering with organizations that contribute to its goals.

A few of the library’s many unique local initiatives include:

  • Books By Mail: A free service that provides library materials to Cobb County residents who are unable to visit the library because of a physical disability, long-term illness, or lack of transportation. Items are delivered through the U.S. Postal Service, and the library provides pre-paid return postage at no cost to patrons.

“Books By Mail is a critical solution for not only our elderly patrons, but also chronically ill and physically challenged residents,” said Rachel Gray, Cobb County Public Library board trustee. “Cobb Library, in so many ways, can truly say it serves all residents, and that is possible because of our talented staff and their dedication to services like this.”

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners approved the service in February 2023, and the program is supported by the county’s federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund.

  • Falls Prevention Awareness Initiative: The library partners with a wide range of organizations to provide senior wellness programs, health screenings, and education for the community about the effects of injuries caused by falls.

Cobb County Public Library launched the Falls Prevention Awareness Initiative in 2015. A few of the library’s earliest collaborators include the Georgia Department of Public Health Injury Prevention Program, Cobb Senior Services, and the Shepherd Center, one of the country’s top hospitals for rehabilitation.

Staff have been trained to offer evidence-based fall prevention programs that bring people together while learning how to prevent injuries and illnesses. Year-round senior class offerings include tai chi, yoga, chair yoga, and hula hoop.

“Our falls prevention programming shows how libraries are effective in intervening to address significant community issues,” said Poyer. “These classes are about increasing knowledge and confidence and improving quality of life. The library is a place for lifelong learning; we can help you learn what you need, when you need it.”

For the initiative, Cobb County Public Library received the Award for Outstanding Service presented by the Injury Prevention Research Center at Emory (IPRCE) in 2023.

  • Vision To Learn Partnership: The library’s partnership with the nonprofit organization Vision To Learn has provided more than 2,100 eye exams and 1,400 pairs of glasses to Cobb County children for free through on-site mobile vision clinics at library branches.

This partnership helps children who have uncorrected vision needs, which means they are more likely to struggle in learning how to read. Vision To Learn visits are part of the library’s collaboration with Learn4Life, Metro Atlanta Regional Education Partnership.

“Although we have provided service at libraries across the country, Cobb County Public Library was a pioneering partner and has continued to set the standard for using libraries as a critical resource in the community, not just for literacy, but for health and wellness,” said Peter Silberman, chief growth officer at Vision To Learn.

  • Accessibility Services: Cobb County Public Library has made meeting the needs of the underserved in their community a priority. The library offers patrons a place to use assistive technology such as screen readers and magnifiers, listen to talking books, or find disability resources.

Cobb County Public Library began its focus on special needs populations in 2014, when the Windy Hill Therapeutic Center Library opened within the Cobb County PARKS Therapeutic Center. The center provides adult day care for those 18 and over who have a disability and need recreational, social, and skill-building activities. In 2019, the library expanded its programs to also serve the general public.

“We recognized that accessibility needed to become a priority for our library. Disability doesn’t have an age limit,” said Renaté Elliott, accessibility services supervisor at Cobb County Public Library. “We needed to provide services beyond those who attend adult day care. We also needed to include kids, as well as young adults who graduated from high school but are not quite ready for college or a job. We wanted to prioritize inclusion across the board.”

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  • Public Library Access for Student Success: Students who attend a Marietta City School or a Cobb County Public School can use their student ID number, commonly referred to as a lunch number, to check out library materials and access digital resources.

The library is also known for providing career advancement opportunities through educational programming, workshops, partnerships, and more.

“The Cobb County Public Library has been instrumental in organizing educational workshops, offering technological access, and hosting a wide range of programs that cater to people of all ages,” said Sonya Grant, president and chief executive officer of CobbWorks. “Their unwavering commitment to serving the community is apparent in the resources and support they provide, enabling individuals to enhance their skill sets and improve their employment prospects.”

The library also partnered with Georgia Educational Resources, Inc., a sponsor of Georgia’s Summer Food Service Program, to provide over 141,500 meals to more than 11,000 children at branches in response to the pandemic’s impact on families’ ability to afford food and the program has continued since.

“The dedication and hard work that Cobb County Public Library has invested in supporting the Summer Food Service Program over the past four years are nothing short of outstanding,” said Tammie Johnson, director at Georgia Educational Resources, Inc. “Because of the library, many children received nutritious meals who may not have otherwise.”

Teen arrested after carjacking, lockdown at KSU campus

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UPDATED, Jan. 25, 12:10 P.M.:

Cobb Police said Wednesday that one suspect was taken into custody and two others remain at-large following a carjacking attempt that occurred near the KSU campus Tuesday.

Officer Aaron Wilson said that three males carjacked a 2023 Cadillac on Frey Road in Kennesaw and headed toward the KSU campus around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The vehicle was spotted by the Cobb Police Real-Time Crime Center near campus, and KSU authorities issued a lockdown around 6:20 p.m. following reports of an armed intruder, Wilson said in a release.

Marquise Adams, 17, of Lithonia, was arrested following a brief foot chase with the keys to the Cadillac in his possession, police said.

Police said that no shots were fired during the incident and that they searched the area for several hours for the other suspects. The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb Police Major Crimes Unit at 770-499-4111.

UPDATED, 8:40 PM:

An all-clear message has been issued and all campus operations have resumed.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

Kennesaw State University issued an emergency alert shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday, saying that an armed suspect has been reported near the main campus in Kennesaw. KSU logo

The university’s Office of Emergency Management is asking those on campus to remain sheltered in place until further notice.

Shortly after 7 p.m., the message was updated to say that all persons should remain sheltered in place, and that police are searching the area.

This story will be updated.

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Ga. Senate approves Republican Cobb school board map bill

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A Cobb Board of Education map proposed by Sen. Ed Setzler would split Walton and Wheeler zones into different elected posts. For a larger view, click here.

The Georgia Senate on Wednesday approved a Republican-sponsored map redistricting the seven posts on the Cobb Board of Education.

By a 32-19 party-line vote, the Senate passed a bill sponsored by Sen. Ed Setzler (R-Acworth) that would moderately change maps the legislature approved in 2022.

But that map was thrown out in December by Eleanor Ross, a federal judge in Atlanta, who said it diluted minority voting strength provisions of the U.S. Voting Rights Act.

She gave lawmakers until Feb. 9 to redraw the lines, and the bill sponsored by Setzler would put some of Post 6 back into the East Cobb area.

That includes some of Wheeler High School attendance zone, which along with the Walton zone had been placed in Post 5 in the 2022 maps.

Four of the seven posts are up for election in 2024, including three of the four seats held by Republicans.

Post 5 in East Cobb, which has been held by Republican David Banks since 2009, will get a new representative since he announced recently he wouldn’t be seeking re-election. Qualifying takes place in March for May primaries.

UPDATED:

On Thursday the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals suspended Ross’ order for the maps to be redrawn immediately, meaning that the legislature doesn’t have to act further, at least for the moment.

A hearing on the merits of the legal case is expected to go before that court in Miami next week.

On Friday, a Georgia House committee approved Setzler’s map in a party-line 10-9 vote.

ORIGINAL REPORT RESUMES:

Setzler defended his bill, SB 338, during a floor debate on Wednesday, although he didn’t mention that as was the case in 2022, he was sponsoring a map that the Democratic-led Cobb legislative delegation objected to.

Sen. Jason Esteves, an Atlanta Democrat who represents some of East Cobb, said the map “doesn’t remedy” the violations of the U.S. Voting Rights Act that were called out in the federal court order.

“This map continues the packing of black and brown voters in Cobb County, limiting their influence,” he said, and in particular South Cobb, where the three posts there are currently held by Democratic members.

He said the refusal by Setzler to consult with the full Cobb delegation led to his map splitting some school attendance zones, including a disruption of some of the Walton and Wheeler feeder patterns.

(While school board posts are drawn by the legislature, school attendance zones are determined administratively by the Cobb County School District.)

In addition to Setzler, Cobb Republicans voting in favor of his map were Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick and John Albers, who represent parts of East Cobb.

Setzler’s bill goes to the House, where Rep. Teri Anulewicz, a Smyrna Democrat who is head of the Cobb legislative delegation, is expected to file her own map.

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Former Cobb school board member eyeing commissioner seat

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Jaha Howard, who served on the Cobb Board of Education from 2019-2022, has filed a declaration of intent form to run for the Cobb Board of Commissioners.Cobb school board COVID safety letter

A Democrat from Smyrna, Howard is considering a campaign for the District 2 seat being vacated by first-term Democrat Jerica Richardson, who is running for Congress.

She was a top campaign aide for Howard when he won election to the school board in 2018, helping reduce a 6-1 Republican majority to 4-3.

A declaration of intent is not a formal campaign launch; candidates interested in seeking public office in Cobb have until March to qualify for the May primaries.

Howard was a controversial figure during partisan disputes on the school board, notably over racial and equity issues as well as the Cobb County School District’s COVID-19 response.

He and the school board’s two other Democrats at the time filed approached Cognia, the district’s accrediting agency, complaining that they were being silenced by the four Republican members who make up the majority.

That prompted a special review by Cognia that was reversed in early 2022. 

In 2022, Howard opted to run for Georgia School Superintendent, but lost in the Democratic primary. He also ran unsuccessfully for the Georgia State Senate in 2016.

Last year, Cobb Commission Chairwoman Lisa Cupid appointed Howard to the county’s transit advisory board.

A graduate of Atlanta Public Schools and Howard University, he is a pediatric dentist who is married with three children.

East Cobb News has left a message with Howard seeking comment. 

The District 2 commission boundaries that were approved by the Georgia legislature during reapportionment in 2021 drew Richardson out of her East Cobb home.

Cobb GOP BOC redistricting map
Cobb commission maps passed by the Georgia legislature would include most of East Cobb in District 3 (gold), with District 2 shown in pink.

She and her Democratic colleagues on the commission tried to invoke home rule to keep her in her seat. Last week a Cobb judge ruled that maneuver violated the Georgia Constitution and the county filed an intent to appeal.

Richardson then reiterated her intent to run for the 6th District Congressional seat, which includes South Cobb.

The redrawn 2nd Commission district includes the Smyrna area as well as much of the city of Marietta and the I-75 corridor. It took out most of East Cobb, which is represented by Republican JoAnn Birrell.

Democrats hold a 3-2 majority on the commission and the 2nd District is likely to be held a Democrat.

Cupid and District 4 commissioner Monique Sheffield are the other Democrats, and their terms also end this year.

Before the Cobb court ruling on redistricting, East Cobb resident Kevin Redmon had declared an intent to run for the District 2 seat as a Democrat.

A former member of Richardson’s community cabinet, he reported raising more than $30,000, but he lives in District 3 according to the boundaries approved by the legislature.

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McCormick endorses Trump after initially supporting DeSantis

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A member of Congress who represents part of East Cobb has changed his endorsement in the Republican presidential primary.Rich McCormick, 6th Congressional District candidate

U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, who initially pledged support for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, said Tuesday that he will be backing former President Donald Trump, who easily won the New Hampshire primary.

DeSantis dropped out last week after finishing a distant second to Trump in the Iowa Caucuses.

Trump defeated former U.N. Ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley in the first primary of the 2024 election calendar in New Hampshire by a 54-43 percent margin.

The South Carolina primary is Feb. 24, and Haley has vowed to continue. Georgia’s presidential primaries are on March 12 but both Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden are expected to face off in a rematch of the 2020 election.

“After another overwhelming victory, it’s abundantly clear that the American people want Donald J. Trump to serve as President of the United States once again,” said McCormick, who is in his first term, in an e-mail distributed by his campaign Tuesday.

“As President, Donald Trump can reverse the failed policies of the Biden Administration that have compromised national security, undermined public safety, stifled our economy, and threatened our nation’s future.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we can spur economic growth, stop the border invasion, restore our country’s standing abroad, safeguard our rights and liberties, and protect the American Dream for generations to come.”

On Wednesday, members of Georgia’s delegation to the Republican National Committee urged Haley to end her campaign.

“We are united in our call to move to the general election phase of this campaign so that the finite time, money, and other campaign resources can be focused on firing Joe Biden,” said the statement, which was signed by state party chairman Josh McKoon and RNC members Jason Thompson and Ginger Howard.

Cody Hall, a top advisor to Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, denounced the message on X (formerly Twitter), saying that “the GAGOP’s role is to support our party’s nominee, not to try to decide them. One would think they would have learned that lesson in 2022.”

That was a reference to Kemp’s easy re-election in 2022 that included a primary victory over former U.S. Sen David Perdue, whom Trump endorsed after Kemp declined demands by Trump to challenge Georgia’s 2020 presidential election results giving Biden a narrow victory for the state’s 16 electoral votes.

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Tin Pin Game Bar opening at Tin Lizzy’s/Avenue East Cobb

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Tin Pin Game Bar opening East Cobb

We posted back in November about the expansion of the Tin Lizzy’s Avenue East Cobb to include a gaming bar.

That addition, the Tin Pin Game Bar, is opening on Friday, in the former Beni’s Cubano space, and will feature menu items from Tin Lizzy’s in a family-friendly entertainment space.

The gaming space is connected to Tin Lizzy’s dining room and “will feature 10 pinball machines and a collection of arcade games alongside the restaurant’s full menu of tacos, quesadillas, margaritas and specialty cocktails,” according to a Tin Lizzy’s release.

Games include Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga and Donkey Kong, and there will be high-tech Stern pinball machines featuring modern properties like the Mandalorian, Deadpool, Godzilla and the recently released Venom pinball game.

Tin Lizzy’s is operated by the Atlanta-based Southern Proper Hospitality, and Tin Pin will have a pinball collection “curated” by Atlanta resident Kevin Grillo, a nationally ranked pinball player.

Tin Pin’s pinball collection is curated by Kevin Grillo, a nationally ranked pinball player and Atlanta resident whose expertise has contributed to the collections at other Atlanta gaming establishments.

“Arcade games appeal to guests across multiple demographics and so does our Tex-Mex menu,” Southern Proper partner Chris Hadermann said in the release. “We’re excited about the experience we’re creating at Tin Pin Game Bar.”

Tin Pin is at 4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1510A at Avenue East Cobb. Hours are Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The bar is open to all ages during daytime hours but in the evenings is limited to ages 21 and older.

More Avenue openings

North American Properties, which manages Avenue East Cobb, announced this week that two new retail outlets will be coming this spring.

One is the Baby Nook, a boutique offering baby essentials and gifts, and will be located next to Barnes & Noble.

Boho Trace is a women’s fashion boutique that will occupy the former Olea Oliva! space.

East Cobb Biz Update: Ashley HomeStore closes; BODY20 opens

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Ashley HomeStore closes East Cobb

A reader alerted us to the departure of the Ashley HomeStore at the East Cobb Crossing Shopping Center (4281 Roswell Road), and the above photo is what we saw when we went by.

The largest home furnishing retailer in the country had been operating at East Cobb Crossing since 2016, and also has stores in the Cumberland area and Alpharetta in north metro Atlanta in addition to the Town Center vicinity.

The Shopping Center Group, which leases space at East Cobb Crossing, lists the former Ashley space as having 19,230 square feet.Ashley HomeStore closes East Cobb

Like many retailing chains, Ashley closed locations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been opening others as it makes significant changes.

Last year, the Ashley HomeStore concept was rebranded as “Ashley” and indicatec that stores in several metro areas, including Atlanta, will “undergo the refresh” amid more expansion.

According to Business of Home, a major reason for the rebrand is an attempt to reach younger customers and to “enhance the overall customer experience.”

Those marketing efforts include offering “experiential events” featuring live music with an emphasis on driving social media impressions and engagement.

BODY20 Ribbon-Cutting East Cobb
Owner Gene Chayevsky cuts the ribbon for the new BODY20 fitness studio. Photos courtesy ECBA.

Body20 Ribbon-cutting

BODY20, a national fitness franchise specializing in wearable, electro-muscle stimulation workouts, held a formal opening and ribbon-cutting on Jan. 11 with the East Cobb Business Association.

Located at Woodlawn Point Shopping Center (1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 270), BODY20 offers one-on-one technology training provided by a personal BODY20 certified coach to customers of all fitness levels.

Workouts are 20-40 minutes, featuring  and are designed to improve strength and cardio results.

The East Cobb owner is KLW Fitness, a franchise run by veteran entrepreneur Gene Chayevsky, who is planning seven BODY20 locations in metro Atlanta.

BODY20 is a membership-based business with a variety of joining options. The studio offers a complimentary demo session. To sign up visit the studio’s website or call (770) 450-6127.

BODY20 Ribbon-Cutting East Cobb

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Jan. 2-5, 2024

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Forrest Brook, East Cobb real estate sales
Forrest Brook

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:

Jan. 2

905 Wynnes Ridge Circle, 30067 (Wynnes Ridge, Wheeler): $270,000

133 Gant Quarters Lane, 30068 (Gant Quarters, Wheeler): $431,000

1595 Dewberry Trail, 30062 (Briarwood Hills, Wheeler): $373,000

4830 Chapelle Court, 30066 (Emerald Garden, Kell): $340,000

Jan. 3

1062 Willow Field Lane Unit 25, 30067 (The Oaks at Powers Ferry, Wheeler): $480,000

Jan. 4

500 Stepney Court, 30067 (Glens at Powers Ferry, Wheeler): $443,100

3210 Cedar Bluff Drive, 30062 (Timber Bluff, Pope): $465,000

1056 Swaying Pines Trace, 30066 (Thornbrook, Sprayberry): $400,000

Jan. 5

2908 Torreya Way, 30067 (The Woods Condos, Wheeler): $350,000

592 Salem Woods Drive, 30067 (Salem Woods, Wheeler): $309,000

1773 Millview Drive, 30062 (Barnes Mill Lake, Wheeler): $280,000

1176 Highland Drive, 30062 (Highland Acres, Sprayberry): $365,000

2773 Stacy Court, 30062 (Pine Shadows, Pope): $485,000

3750 Northpoint Drive, 30062 (Spring Wood, Lassiter): $367,000

1175 Forrest Brook Court, 30067 (Forrest Brook Walton): $485,000

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Wheeler Athletic Hall of Fame to induct five new members

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Wheeler High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame will welcome five new members this weekend.

Matt Haynes, Class of 1985, was a state champion in track and field and was a varsity wrestler and football player at Wheeler.

The inductees will be presented between varsity basketball games against Kennesaw Mountain Friday, around 7:20 p.m.

Induction will take place Saturday with photos at 9:15 a.m., breakfast at 9:30 a.m. and the ceremony at 10 a.m. in the Wheeler Cafe.

Tickets for the breakfast and ceremony will be $10 and can be purchased at the door. For questions, contact Brittny Jones at brittny.jones@cobbk12.org.

The 2024 inductees, with brief bios that can be found in full on the Hall of Fame’s Facebook page:

Ray Stang, Swimming, Class of 1968
There was no Wheeler Swim Team until he represented the school in the Georgia High School Swimming Championships. In the 1967 State Champion Meet, he finished 2nd in the 100-yard breaststroke. In the 1968 championship meet, Stang finished 1st in the 100-yard breaststroke, becoming Wheeler’s first state champion in any athletic competition. He also finished 3rd in the 100-yard freestyle. Ray’s achievements earned the Wheeler HS Swim Team a 7th place finish in the State for the 1967-68 school year, and Ray WAS the swim team, as he was the only swimmer.

Terry Poor, Football, Class of 1968
During his three years at Wheeler, Terry played in every football game as a starter on both offense and defense. His senior year, Terry was selected by his teammates as a permanent captain for the WHS Football Team.

After graduating college, Terry returned to Wheeler to teach and coach. As an assistant coach on Corky Kell’s football staff, he first coached junior varsity football for two undefeated seasons before being elevated to defensive coordinator for the varsity football team which was a perennial state playoff contender.

Matt Haynes, Track and Field, Class of 1985
After setting a new Wheeler freshman pole vaulting record, and winning the Cobb JV County Meet, with Steve Brown just one jump behind, the Wheeler pole vaulting “dynasty,” that started with Randy Eaton and David Swanson four years earlier was reborn. Over the next three years, Matt broke the rest of Randy Eaton’s Wheeler pole vaulting records, along with a few meet records.

He won State his junior year, and barely missed setting a new State record at 14’2. His senior year, he missed a jump at 14’2” hitting the bar on the way up and placed 2nd at State. Haynes also won the JV Cobb County wrestling title in the 167 lbs. weight class and lettered three times in football.

Jermareo Davidson, Basketball, Class of 2003
Jermareo played basketball at Wheeler for one season and broke the single season blocks record, as well as the record for rebounds. That year, Wheeler also won its 3rd State Championship. Jermareo was selected to play in the prestigious Michael Jordan High School All American game. He played collegiately at the University of Alabama and professionally in the NBA and overseas.

Dale Carey, Baseball, Class of 2010
Dale Carey was a member of the Wheeler baseball team for four years, and he also played football for the Wildcats for three years. During his senior year, he played centerfield and batted .398 with six home runs. He was recognized by the Atlanta Braves 400 Club as one the top players in Georgia.

In 2010, he was named Player of the Year, he was selected for two All Region Teams and All Cobb County Teams. He was also named to the Georgia Dugout Club All State Team. Carey played at the University of Miami and was in professional baseball for six years before coaching at the high school level.

 

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East Cobb Food Scores: Cafe Rivkah; 101 Bagel Cafe; more

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Cafe Rivkah, Taste of East Cobb

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

101 Bagel Cafe
4811 Lower Roswell Road, Suite 112
January 18, 2024 Score: 96, Grade: A

Cafe Rivkah
2100 Roswell Road, Suite 2014
January 18, 2024 Score: 96, Grade: A

Grits and Eggs Breakfast Kitchen
2468 Windy Hill Road, Suite 600-700
January 18, 2024 Score: 85, Grade: B

Heirloom Market BBQ
2243 Akers Mill Road
January 19, 2024 Score: 100, Grade: A

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East Cobb restaurant update: Press Waffle grand opening is Saturday

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Press Waffle opening Dec. 15

The delayed grand opening of Press Waffle Co. at Avenue East Cobb is taking place this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, with special discounts and giveaways.

There will be swag for the first 100 people who arrive at 9 a.m. Saturday, when the Belgian-style waffle eatery formally opens.

It’s occupying one of the “jewel box” buildings that’s at the heart of the retail center’s overhaul in recent months.

You can get updates on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Operated by Keith and Nicki Ginel, Press Waffle’s hours are otherwise 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Sidelines Grille

The local family-style sports bar chain will soon occupy the former Egg Harbor Cafe space at Stonewood Village, as we noted in November.

Earlier this week management said they’re aiming for a March opening:

“We’re dedicating ourselves to creating a place you’re absolutely going to love. It’s all about bringing the best of sports, food, and community spirit together.”

East Cobb residential real estate sales, Dec. 27-29, 2023

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Indian Hills
Indian Hills

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

Dec. 27

3468 Sheridan Chase. 30067 (Oak Leaf Plantation,  Wheeler): $675,000

150 Old Bee Tree Drive, 30062 (Briarwood Hills, Wheeler): $280,000

2231 Deep Creek Drive, 30068 (Pioneer Woods, Wheeler): $320,000

4040 Clubland Drive, 30068 (Indian Hills, Walton): $1.35 million

3975 Devon Oaks Drive, 30066 (Devon Oaks, Lassiter): $685,000

1959 Myrtle Drive, 30066 (Greenland, Kell): $359,900

Dec. 28

4109 Rambleton Drive, 30062 (Garrison Parc, Lassiter): $980,000

540 Oriole Drive, 30067 (Meadow Brook, Wheeler): $470,000

490 Wall Street, 30068 (Country Place East, Wheeler): $445,000

1189 Azalea Circle, 30062 (Eastwood Forrest, Sprayberry): $315,000

128 Dickson Court, 30066 (Trojan Hills, Sprayberry): $285,000

323 Mark Avenue, 30066 (Kings Wood Estates, Sprayberry): $340,000

2315 Dayron Circle, 30062 (Waverly Woods, Sprayberry): $400,000

2750 Cedarbrook Drive, 30066 (Piedmont Hills, Sprayberry): $479,000

4446 Whitecap Road, 30066 (Lamplighter Cove, Kell): $345,000

Dec. 29

2442 Sims Road, 30066 (Shallowford Trickum Cross Roads, Lassiter): $898,917

821 Exposition Point, 30067 (The Townes at Marietta, Wheeler): $447,230

730 Summit Terrace, 30068 (Indian Hills, Walton): $2.4 million

2657 Bonaire Terrace, 30066 (Northampton, Lassiter): $780,000

644 Brookline Drive, 30067 (Hyde Park, Wheeler): $576,000

141 Kings Row, 30067 (Walton): $635,000

3774 Kensington Drive, 30066 (Canterbury Park, Sprayberry): $363,000

1900 Kemp Road, 30066 (Country Meadows, Kell): $449,900

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Woodstock crash victims to have joint visitations, funerals

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Woodstock crash victims to have joint funerals, burials
Gabe Escandon, left, and Esteban Cortes.

The two teenagers killed in a one-car crash in Woodstock last week will have their visitations and funerals together, family members and friends have announced.

The families of Gabriel Escandon, 17, a Pope High School senior, and Esteban David Cortes, 18, who attended Etowah High School, will hold a joint visitation on Thursday and Friday from 4-9 p.m. each day at Poole Funeral Home (1970 Eagle Drive Woodstock).

There also will be closed casket viewings at the same venue Thursday and Friday.

A joint funeral service for the two boys—who were varsity soccer players at their respective schools—will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mt. Paran Church of God (2055 Mt. Paran Road NW, Atlanta).

“The families believed that the boys lived life together and should be laid to rest together,” states a message on a remembrance page for Escandon.

GoFundMe fundraisers have been set up for both (here and here) by the “East Cobb Soccer Community.”

Fundraisers also are ongoing for survivors of the crash, including Lassiter soccer player Chris Peixoto.

They were passengers in a Mazda that crashed into a tree in a median on Towne Lake Parkway last Tuesday.

It was the 18th birthday for Cortes, who died at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office said Escandon died at the scene.

“Gabriel always encouraged us to seize the moment and embrace life’s adventures,” the fundraiser organizers said.

“And to those who knew Gabriel and his larger than life personality, his spirit remains, watching over his parents, his brothers, and his extended family. On the pitch, he will forever be the 12th man, supporting and encouraging his teammates. In the classroom, amongst his peers and with family, he had the power to illuminate the darkest corners of a room. He understood the meaning of brotherhood. His love of life was felt in everything did.”

The friends of the victims also have set up a website, pray4pkwy.org, where 100 percent of sales of “For His Glory” wristbands and t-shirts will go the families of Escandon and Cortes and to set up scholarships in their memories.

 

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Cobb schools resume Wednesday; wind chill advisory issued

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From the Cobb County School District:Cobb County School District, Cobb schools dual enrollment summit

“All Cobb schools and administrative offices will return to a normal schedule on Wednesday, January 17th.

According to the National Weather Service, tomorrow will be extremely cold, and the wind chill temperatures could be a shock to you and your children.  Please be sure your children are dressed appropriately, especially if they will be waiting at bus stops. As you know, the Here Comes the Bus app allows you to track your student’s bus in real-time, so your student can remain indoors until the bus draws near. If you or your student will be driving, please continue using caution on the roads. 

Our Team looks forward to seeing your children in school on Wednesday!”

About the weather:

The National Weather Service in Atlanta has issued a wind chill advisory from 5 p.m. Tuesday to 10 a.m. Wednesday for Cobb and much of North Georgia.

Temperatures are expected to reach into the low teens overnight Tuesday, but wind chill factors could make conditions feel near zero or a few degrees below during that advisory period.

Those conditions could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken when moving about outdoors.

Wednesday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and highs in the mid 30s, with lows reaching around 20.

Winds are expected to die down during Wednesday, and on Thursday, highs will be in the high 40s and lows around 35, with an 80 percent chance of rain expected.

Friday will be sunny with highs in the low 40s, with temperatures much colder again over the weekend.

Saturday’s high is not expected to be higher than 30, with lows around 15.

Sunday will be a bit warmer, with highs around 40 and lows around 25.