Everything you need to know about Cobb County Its 7 cities, economy, history, events and people
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EXECUTIVE
PUBLISHER
Otis Brumby III
GENERAL MANAGER
Lee B. Garrett
V.P. OF CONTENT
J.K. Murphy
EDITORIAL STAFF
FACTBOOK EDITOR
Emily Boorstein
CONTRIBUTORS
Beth Slaughter Sexton, Joel Elliott, Hunter Riggall, Jacob Busch, Hayden Sumlin, Damon Poirier, Skyler Heath, Jordan Howard, Nigel Whittington and Gunter Schroeder
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Jennifer Hall and Beth Poirier
ADVERTISING STAFF
V.P. OF SALES
Tara Guest
COBB ADVERTISING MANAGER
Becky Opitz
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Stephanie deJarnette, Ginny Hrushka, Paula Milton
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Windsor Armour, Erin Barkwell, Tona Deaton, Jennifer Hall, Beth Poirier
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Dave Gossett
Welcome to the 2024 edition of the Marietta Daily Journal’s Factbook — the newspaper’s 47th consecutive year of publishing the information and data that makes Cobb County and its citizens unique in the Georgia landscape.
This year, like the rest of the world, Cobb County has reached the tail end of the pandemic. We’ve lived through the highs and lows. However, Cobb adapted and we’re better for it.
This has always been a special place — everywhere you look you can find the true spirit and heart of our diverse community. Our heroic healthcare workers, public safety, military, nonprofits, business leaders, elected officials, faith communities and neighbors helping neighbors have enabled us to continue to make Cobb County among the best places to call home.
The last few years years have shown us that local news is still an essential component of a successful community. Our team of reporters and editors has
compiled data and facts that tell our community’s story. Facts matter and this year’s Factbook is full of them.
Factbook 2024 is the perfect guide for the newcomer wanting to know more about the place they now call home, but it also serves as a refresher for the families who’ve lived here for generations. From Dobbins Air Reserve Base and Lockheed to Truist Park and the Atlanta Braves to our schools, hospitals, churches, museums, festivals and entertainers, they are all covered in this magazine. Throughout this publication, readers are greeted by a thriving community of merchants advertising their wares and services. We ask that you take note of their message. They play a critical role in creating and maintaining the high quality of life Cobb residents enjoy today.
Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy this year’s edition of the Cobb Factbook.
— Otis A. Brumby III, publisher
The Dec. 8, 1941, page front showing Congress declaring war against Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.
The May 7, 1945, page front showing the unconditional surrender of the German Army ending World War II in Europe.
The Friday, Nov. 1, 1963, page front showing the aftermath of the natural gas explosion at Atherton’s Drug Store on Marietta Square. The explosion happened on Halloween night killing seven people and injuring 22.
The July 21, 1969, page front showing the moon landing.
The April 14, 1976, page front showing Kennesaw Junior College being elevated to a four-year institution by the Georgia Board of Regents. The college is now known as Kennesaw State University.
MAN ON THE MOON:
Just northwest of Atlanta, Cobb County is set between the Chattahoochee River and the foothills of the north Georgia mountains. Georgia’s third largest county by population is known for lauded schools, low taxes and America’s team - the Atlanta Braves. A mix of urban and suburban development, Cobb is a vibrant community of seven cities.
This 2024 Cobb County Factbook reveals a slice of history in the making for Georgia’s third most populated county. On these pages, the well-informed Cobb resident will read about the county’s natural amenities: its rivers, lakes and its woodlands filled with hiking and running trails. The popular Silver Comet Trail gets its start in Smyrna. Its name roughly translates to “the river of painted rocks” and the Chattahoochee continues to be vital to the entire region. While it existed long before Yankees and Rebels ever fought a battle there, the beautiful Kennesaw Mountain has claimed its spot in history.
Cobb County’s past is indeed legendary with the place and its people often featured in books and movies. Starring the late Fess Parker and produced by the late Walt Disney, “The Great Locomotive Chase” depicts the capture of The General, a Confederate locomotive taken by Union troops in what has been called “one of the most extraordinary and astounding adventures of the Civil War.” It all took place in 1862, in a small community called Big Shanty, later known as Kennesaw.
With a population now nearing an estimated 790,000, Cobb began as one of 10 northwest Georgia counties carved out of Cherokee Indian lands in 1832. It was named in honor of former U.S. Senator, Representative and Superior Court Judge Thomas Willis Cobb.
On the following pages, readers will learn how area settlements grew into Cobb County’s seven cities of today, including Marietta, Powder Springs, Acworth, Kennesaw, Smyrna, Austell and its newest city, Mableton.
Cobb’s first 192 years tell a story of hard work, patriotism and pride in one’s community. In 1942, Bell Aircraft built a factory in Marietta eventually employing thousands to work in World War II’s aviation production. That led to Lockheed Corp. putting down roots in Cobb County in 1951, with today’s Lockheed Martin in Marietta the site of some of the most advanced aircraft in the world. Dobbins Air Reserve Base, built in 1941, supports more than 5,700 personnel from the Air Force, Army, Navy
and Marine Corps. It is the location for the 94th Airlift Wing, 22nd Air Force Headquarters, Georgia National Guard Headquarters, Navy Operational Support Center Atlanta and units of the Army Reserve, Marine Reserve and Civil Air Patrol, as well as Lockheed Martin Corp.
Within its 345 square miles, the county is home to two school systems: Marietta City Schools and the Cobb County School District, Georgia’s second largest public school system. Cobb officials report the county has the lowest property taxes in the metro Atlanta area compared to neighboring counties. It is also among the top educated populations in the state with 48.4 percent of its residents having a bachelor’s degree or higher, including 17 percent having a graduate or professional degree. The county is home to the third largest university in Georgia, Kennesaw State University, as well as Life University and Chattahoochee Technical College.
In addition, with Wellstar, Northside, Children’s Healthcare and other providers, area residents have some of the best medical services available anywhere.
Cobb County can take another bow as it is the chosen headquarters for such Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies as Aaron’s Inc., Blue Linx Holdings, Floor & Decor, Glock, Genuine Parks Company, The Home Depot, Papa John’s, RaceTrac Petroleum and TKE. Other top corporations also call Cobb home, including GE Energy, Comcast, Atlanta United FC, Atlanta Blaze, CCA and B, Gas South, Bank of North Georgia, The Weather Channel, and the Atlanta Braves.
The Braves moved into its home at Cobb’s brand new Truist Park (then Suntrust Park) in 2017, winning the World Series in 2021, and claiming the team’s first title in 26 years. The Battery Atlanta surrounding Truist Park features restaurants, retail stores, a music venue and many other things to see and do.
In fact, there is so much to see and do and tell about Cobb County’s people, places, industries and organizations, it is a challenge just to fit a mention of each one into this space. We haven’t yet even touched on politics or religion. Perhaps it is best we leave it there. Let’s just say there is a place of worship on almost every corner and Cobb County politics are always exciting.
Read on to get the full story and find out more about this vibrant and growing community we call home. In doing our research, we learned a lot and maybe you too will find a few surprising facts you didn’t already know about Cobb County.
“There’s a group of men that play music here at the Square every Tuesday night. They just do it for the joy of music, and we come up here every Tuesday to listen to them. Another great secret here in Marietta is the vegetable race at the community gardens.”
— Kirby and Pauletta Thomas, Marietta
“I think the farmers markets that we have around Cobb are the best kept secret. We have the Marietta Farmers Market, the Powder Springs one and more. They’re a great place to hang out.”
— Darlene VanBeek, Marietta
“What’s unique about the Chattahoochee itself is that it sustains a wild fish population, even going through a metro area. Not a lot of people know there are self-sustaining trout populations in the ‘Hooch.”
— Mekiala, Clarke & Mark Fucito, East Cobb
“Nobody really knows about this, but a picnic at Heritage Park. It was his idea, we brought a blanket and found a spot by the river down by the trail. It’s important to avoid the poison ivy!”
— Michael and Brooke Brocker, Smyrna
“The best kept secret in Cobb is the Hunt House. It’s a lot of bluegrass, country, singer-songwriter type stuff. It’s a small, intimate room. It’s a great local spot with a high quality menu.”
— Tiernan Callaghan, Kennesaw
All information, unless otherwise specified, comes from the U.S. Census Bureau, based on their 2020 census data or the most recent available estimates.
22.7%
23.1%
13.3%
12.4%
13.6%
11%
15.4%
2020-2022
Cobb 0.8%
Fulton: 0.7%
DeKalb: -0.2%
Gwinnett: 1.9%
Cherokee: 5.5%
Population per sq mi
2020
Cobb 2,254.8 sq mi
Fulton: 2,025.3 sq mi
DeKalb: 2,854.9 sq mi
Gwinnett: 2,221.8 sq mi
Cherokee: 633.2 sq mi
2017-2021 estimates
Cobb 2.62 Fulton: 2.31
DeKalb: 2.61
Gwinnett: 3.01
Cherokee: 2.77
2017-2021 estimates
Cobb 84.7%
Fulton: 82.5%
DeKalb: 84.9%
Gwinnett: 88.4%
Cherokee: 87.9%
Fulton $77,635
DeKalb $69,423
Gwinnett $75,853
Cherokee $90,681
DeKalb: 56.8%
Gwinnett: 66.9%
Cherokee: 76.6%
Fulton: 13.7%
DeKalb: 14.5%
Gwinnett: 10.8%
Cherokee: 7.0%
Civilian Labor Force
(percent of population 16 & up) Cobb 69.8%
Fulton: 68.7%
DeKalb: 69.3%
Gwinnett: 68.4%
Cherokee: 68.4%
Cobb $24,616 Fulton $16,169
DeKalb $14,058
Gwinnett $16,418
Cherokee $12,007
Fulton: 16.4%
DeKalb: 19.2%
Gwinnett: 35.4%
Cherokee: 12.5%
Fulton: 13.4%
DeKalb: 16.2%
Gwinnett: 25.8%
Cherokee: 9.6%
(minutes)
Fulton: 28.9
DeKalb: 31.6
Gwinnett: 33.8
Cherokee: 33.7
(percent 25 or older)
Fulton: 93.2%
DeKalb: 90.7%
Gwinnett: 87.9%
Cherokee: 91.9%
Fulton: 55.9%
DeKalb: 46.1%
Gwinnett: 38.5%
Cherokee: 38.4%
Total retail sales (2017) in thousands
$18,543,691
Fulton: $16,815,853
DeKalb: $10,567,247
Gwinnett $15,083,256
Cherokee $2,976,983
(2021 dollars)
Cobb $44,448
Fulton $52,842
DeKalb $39,994
Gwinnett $33,870
Cherokee $40,675
April 2023 (preliminary)
2.4% Fulton: 3.0%
DeKalb: 2.9%
Gwinnett: 2.4%
Cherokee: 2.1%
Cobb 2.7%
Fulton: 3.5%
(via U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
3.7%
Fulton: 5.4%
DeKalb: 2.4%
Gwinnett: 2.9%
Cherokee: 2.4%
DeKalb: 5.3%
Gwinnett: 4.1%
Cherokee: 3.0%
Population (July 2022): 771,952
Population (July 2021): 766,802
Population (April 2020): 766,149
Population (July 2019): 760,141
Population (July 2018): 756,070
Population (July 2022): 10,912,876
Population (July 2021): 10,799,566
Population (April 2020): 10,617,423
Population (July 2019): 10,617,423
Population (July 2018): 10,511,131
White only (2022): 59.4%
White only (2010): 59.7%
Black or African American only (2022): 33.0%
Black or African American only (2010): 30.5%
American Indian or Alaska native only (2022): 0.5%
American Indian or Alaska native only (2010): 0.3%
Hispanic/Latino (2022): 10.2%
Hispanic/Latino (2010): 8.8%
Asian only (2022): 4.6%
(2010): 4.5%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only (2022): 0.1%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only (2010): 0.1%
White non-Hispanic (2022): 50.2%
White non-Hispanic (2010): 56.3%
Two or more races (2022): 2.8%
Two or more races (2010): 2.7%
Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2017-2021): 66.2%
Asian only (2010): 3.2%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only (2022): 0.1%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only (2010): 0.1%
White non-Hispanic (2022): 51.0%
White non-Hispanic (2010): 55.9%
Two or more races (2022): 2.4%
Two or more races (2010): 2.1%
Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2017-2021): 64.5%
High school or above: 92.9%
Bachelor’s degree or above: 49.0%
Median household income (2017-2021): $86,013
High school or above: 88.2%
Bachelor’s degree or above: 33.0%
Median household income (2017-2021): $65,030
Staff reports
Cobb County, which became Georgia’s 81st county in 1832, was named after Georgia Congressman Thomas Willis Cobb. Cobb, who also served as a senator and superior court judge, died at the age of 46 in 1830. Less than a decade after Cobb’s founding, the state began building the Western and Atlantic Railroad, which influenced the development of the county and many of its cities.
The area now known as Acworth was once a watering station for locomotives traveling from the Western and Atlantic Railroad. Originally, the station was called Northcutt Station after station master Alfred Northcutt. In 1843, railroad engineer Joseph Gregg renamed the surrounding town Acworth, after his hometown of Acworth, New Hampshire, which was named for English Admiral Jacob Acworth. Today, Acworth is known as “The Lake City.”
Austell is named for Alfred Austell, founder of the Atlanta National Bank, which later became Wachovia. One of the nation’s largest cotton dealers, Austell was also known for his efforts to build railroads in Southern states.
Early visitors to the area claimed the waters there had medicinal properties. The area was known as Salt Springs for the water’s healing powers and for hunters’ use of the salt licks to trap animals. Later, the area was renamed Lithia Springs because of the lithium carbonate in the water.
The word Kennesaw comes from the Cherokee people who used to farm there. The Cherokee word gah-nee-sah means “cemetery” or “burial ground.”
As the Western and Atlantic Railroad was being constructed, small shanty towns began to crop up on the edge of the railroad. These towns were located on elevated ground near a spring, with this location being called “Big Shanty Grade.” Eventually, the “grade” was dropped, and the area became known as “Big Shanty.”
In November 2022, voters approved a referendum to make Mableton Cobb’s seventh city. Mableton was previously the largest unincorporated area in metro Atlanta.
The city is named after Robert Mable, who purchased 300 acres of land in the area in 1843. In 1881, the Southern Railway opened a train station in Mableton and one
year later, a post office opened. The city of Mableton was incorporated in 1912, but it was disincorporated just four years later.
There are two competing stories as to how Marietta got its name, according to Sarah Temple’s “The First Hundred Years.”
One is that there were two local women — named Mary and Etta — whose beauty “so dazzled the gentlemen of the town by their charms that the county seat was named for them.
The second — and more plausible — theory, is that the town was named after Willis Cobb’s wife, Mary.
Incorporated in 1838, Powder Springs was originally called Springsville. Early settlers to the area came in the hopes of finding gold but found little in the surrounding hills. The name was changed in 1859 to Powder Springs after the seven springs located throughout the city that are enriched with minerals, turning the sand and soil black like gunpowder.
The original Smyrna was a church founded by the apostle Paul in what is now Turkey. Area churches began to use the Biblical term to refer to their new surroundings, and the Methodists’ gathering place became known as the Smyrna Camp Ground.
Smyrna is also known as “the Jonquil City” after the yellow flowers that bloom there in the spring. According to the Smyrna Historical Society, the first jonquils were brought to Smyrna by Samuel Taylor in 1883.
The unincorporated area now known as Cumberland was once best known as the home of Camp Ben Adams, a Boy Scout reservation.
The development of Cumberland Mall in 1973, which was at the time Georgia’s largest enclosed regional mall, sparked the area’s change into an economic powerhouse. Cumberland is home to the Cobb Galleria Centre, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.
The Cumberland Community Improvement District, a tax district that invests in the area’s infrastructure and beautification, is the largest of Cobb’s three CIDs.
East Cobb is an affluent unincorporated suburb located in the eastern part of Cobb County. Many of its locations were peopled by settlers since the county’s early incorporation. Mount Bethel Church got its start in 1840 as Bethel Methodist Episcopalian Church. Johnson Ferry, which is now a major road in the area, was originally a ferry that took people from Atlanta across the Chattahoochee.
Lake Allatoona
This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir on the Etowah River has a fun name to say, but one whose origins are unclear.
It shares its name with the Allatoona Mountains, the Allatoona pass through the mountains and the former city of Allatoona, which was destroyed when the lake was created.
Historian Richard Thornton said Allatoona is often thought to come from a Cherokee word, but he said there is no proof of this.
“The origin of the word, Allatoona, has remained a mystery for two centuries,” Thornton writes on his blog, “People of one Fire.” “Neither the Creek nor the Cherokee Peoples claim the word as theirs, although local white historians typically describe the word Allatoona as ‘a Cherokee word of unknown meaning.’ For 14 years, I have tried to translate the word, using the mathematics of statistics applied to Muskogee, Miccosukee (Itsate Creek), Panoan, Itza Maya, Cherokee and Arawak dictionaries, but to no avail.”
Thornton posits the name may come from an archaic European language and mean “All the low mountains” or “All the mountaintop/hilltop fortified towns.”
Lost Mountain
According to the papers of Walter McElreath, Lost Mountain resident and one of the founders of the Atlanta History Center, Lost Mountain got its name from an old Cherokee legend.
In the tale, the beloved daughter of a Cherokee chief eloped with a member of an enemy tribe the night before she was to be married to a Cherokee man her father chose for her. Racked with sorrow, the chief spent the rest of his days staring at the mountain to which his daughter escaped and muttering “Lost, lost.”
In a different version of the story, published in the Jan. 29, 1869, edition of the Marietta Journal, the chief kills the suitor and chases his daughter onto the mountain. When he does not return, others form a search party and discover that the father and daughter died together under an oak tree after becoming lost on the mountain. Town Center
This Kennesaw mall is part of a major retail hub in Cobb County, located along Barrett Parkway and nestled between Interstates 75 and 575.
The shopping spot first opened its doors in February 1986, and according to an April 1984 MDJ story by Maggie Willis, it almost had a different name.
“(Developer Scott) Hudgens, who opened Gwinnett Place, a large regional mall in Gwinnett County, in February said he actually liked the name ‘Cobb Place’ better but was convinced by one of his anchor department stores that the nomenclature would be confused with Cobb Center, a comparatively small shopping center located west of Smyrna.”
Town Center is also governed by the Town Center Community Improvement District, the second largest CID in the county behind the Cumberland CID.
Vinings
Vinings was named after William H. Vining, who came from the Northeast to work on the construction of the Western and Atlantic Railroad. Vining oversaw the construction of a difficult trestle bridge known as Vining’s Bridge. Local streets Paces Ferry Road and Paces Mill Road are named after North Carolina entrepreneur Hardy Pace, who established a ferry service and mill along the Chattahoochee.
West Cobb
The unincorporated community in the western part of Cobb County features close-knit neighborhoods and a lot of space between them. Though it is less dense than east Cobb, west Cobb still features plenty of amenities, such as the Avenue West Cobb shopping center.
The old Lost Mountain Store, now a branch of United Community Bank, is a historic landmark for the community in west Cobb.
Shannon Ballew
Without a car in Cobb? The county offers CobbLinc as a public transportation option, a bus service with local routes and commuter routes into Atlanta.
There’s also the Xpress commuter bus service, operated by the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (The ATL), which carries commuters from four Cobb stops to midtown and downtown Atlanta.
Bikeshare programs have also been added in the Town Center and Cumberland areas, operated by their respective community improvement districts.
CobbLinc
Inaugurated as Cobb County Transit in 1989, CCT was rebranded as CobbLinc in 2016. The service operates nine local service routes, three express routes, two free circulator routes and three “flex” routes, a demand-response service available in some areas. CobbLinc also offers a
paratransit service (individualized rides without fixed routes or timetables) within three-quarters of a mile of the 11 fixed routes.
Two transfer centers serve as hubs of the system. One is located in Marietta on South Marietta Parkway, the other in Cumberland on Cumberland Boulevard. The Marietta Transfer Center connects to all local routes except one (25). It’s located adjacent to the Marietta Park-and-Ride Lot. The Cumberland Transfer Center, steps from Cumberland Mall, connects to all but three local routes and also connects with MARTA bus Route 12.
All CobbLinc buses are equipped with Wi-Fi and bustracking technology.
CobbLinc bus fares can be paid using CobbLinc tickets and passes, MARTA Breeze cards and exact cash (fareboxes accept bills and coins but cannot produce change).
For comprehensive information, including route maps, schedules, and fares, visit cobbcounty.org/transportation/cobblinc.
Fares
Adult local one-way: $2.50
Adult express one-way: $5
FLEX bus service one-way: $2.50
CobbLinc Circulator: Free
Paratransit fare: $4
Paratransit youth fare: $3
Reduced Local Fares
Senior citizen: $1
Medicare card holder: $1
Youth under-18: $1.50
Paratransit certified: Free
Children (under 42 inches tall): Free
Fare Products
10-ride local ticket: $18
31-day local ticket: $72
20-ride express pass: $65
31-day express pass: $125
Paratransit 10-ride ticket: $30
Paratransit 31-day ticket: $115
Park and Ride
Park-and-ride lots allow drivers to park and take the bus to destinations in Cobb County. Some also have Express routes that connect to midtown and downtown Atlanta, targeted at commuters.
Acworth park-and-ride lot: 6045 Lake Acworth Drive
Acworth 30101
Busbee park-and-ride lot: 3221 Busbee Drive NW
Kennesaw 30144
Floyd Road park-and-ride lot: 4342 Floyd Road
Mableton 30126
Mableton park-and-ride lot: 700 Maran Lane
Mableton 30126
Marietta park-and-ride lot: 800 South Marietta Parkway
Marietta 30060
Town Center (Big Shanty) park-and-ride lot: 634 Big Shanty Road NW
Kennesaw 30144
The ATL, a regional state transit agency, operates several Xpress commuter bus routes (not to be confused with CobbLinc’s Express routes).
Xpress route stops in Cobb are located in Powder Springs, Town Center, Hickory Grove and Acworth and all connect to in-town Atlanta.
Fares range from $3-4 for a one-way trip, $5-7 for a round-trip ticket, $2535 for 10-trip passes and $100-$125 for 31-day passes.
Full maps, schedules and fares can be found at xpressga.com.
The ATL has two of its own park-andride lots in Cobb, while other routes connect to CobbLinc park-and-ride lots.
Powder Springs park-and-ride: 5100 Powder Springs-Dallas Road, Powder Springs 30127
Hickory Grove park-and-ride: 2018 Hickory Grove Road
Acworth 30102
Bike share
The Town Center and Cumberland CIDs offer bike share programs, which can be used for recreation or practical, pointto-point transportation. The services are connected and both use the Movatic mobile app to rent out bikes. Riders can rent and drop off bikes at stations in either location. There are 80 bikes across the two systems and 12 bike stations (bikes can also be rented at the Cumberland transfer station).
Fare
First hour: free Every hour after: $3, with $24 maximum per day
Cumberland stations: Cochran Shoals — CRNRA
Paces Mill — CRNRA
The Battery Atlanta
Galleria Gardens
CobbLinc Cumberland Transfer Center
Riverwood Pkwy Near Cumberland Blvd
Bob Callan Trail Trailhead
Town Center stations: Bells Ferry Trailhead
Town Center at Cobb shopping mall
Avonlea Creekside Apartments
Founders Park
Aviation Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
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Many influential people have come from or lived in Cobb County.
“America’s sweetheart” Julia Roberts hails from Smyrna, while another Academy Awardwinning actress, Joanne Woodward, moved to Marietta when she was in second grade and attended Marietta High School. Woodward married Paul Newman.
Actress and comedian Brett Butler, best known for “Grace Under Fire,” is a Marietta native.
Actor Lucas Till, who played superhero Havok in Marvel’s X-Men series and the titular secret agent in the “MacGyver” TV remake, is a graduate of Kell High School and lived in Kennesaw.
West Cobb meteorologist Jen Carfagno, known as the “dewpoint diva” appears on The Weather Channel, which has its headquarters in Cumberland.
Food guru and TV personality Alton Brown lives in Marietta and shot in town for the “Good Eats” comeback “Good Eats: The Return.”
Alan Ball, an award-winning writer, director and producer perhaps best known for writing “American Beauty” and creating “Six Feet Under” and “True Blood,” was born in Marietta. So was Robert Patrick, an actor known for his villainous roles, such as the T-1000 in “Terminator 2.”
Lennon Parham, an actress and comedian from the Upright Citizens Theater, was born in Marietta. She is known for her roles in “Horrible Bosses 2” and “Confessions of a Shopaholic.”
Ty Pennington, known as the host changing people’s houses and lives on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” attended Sprayberry High School and Kennesaw State University.
Filmmaker Chris Wyatt, known for producing the comedy “Napoleon Dynamite,” is a graduate of Marietta’s Walker School.
Jeff Small, co-chief executive officer and president of Amblin Partners and Dreamworks, is a Marietta native.
Country superstar and Marietta native Travis Tritt began writing music while attending
Sprayberry High School. His family has deep Cobb roots — Post Oak Tritt Road and Tritt Elementary School, both in east Cobb, were named for his grandfather, Will Tritt.
Country music crooner Zach Seabaugh got his start in Marietta before attaining fame on “The Voice” (his father is state Rep. Devan Seabaugh). In 2019, Cobb native Carter Horne, a graduate of Sprayberry High School, competed on “The Voice” and in the next season later that year, Alex Guthrie of Marietta appeared on the show.
Pop singer and songwriter Jennifer Paige also got her start in her hometown of Marietta, where she sang in local restaurants and coffee shops. Guitarist Robin Finck started in Marietta and went on to play with bands including Nine Inch Nails and Guns N’ Roses.
Lil Nas X, or Montero Lamar Hill, spent much of his childhood in Austell with his dad. The rapper known for such hits as “Old Town Road” worked at Six Flags while he was developing his music career.
Rapper Miles Parks McCollum, better known as Lil Yachty, hails from Mableton.
Music producer Michael Len Williams II, known as Mike Will Made It, was born in Marietta and went on to produce records by acts including Kendrick Lamar, Beyonce and Miley Cyrus.
Ronald “Ron” Pope, who wrote the hit song “A Drop in the Ocean,” grew up in Cobb and attended Wheeler High School. Marco Restrepo, who wrote the hit song “Get Up & Go” under the name A. Tone Da Priest, was born in Marietta and grew up in Atlanta.
Chris and Rich Robinson, founding members of the Black Crowes, went to Walton High School.
Brandon Stanton, a Marietta native, is a photographer, blogger and author of “Humans of New York.”
Vocalist Mac Powell and guitarist Mark Lee formed the Christian rock band Third Day while they were students at McEachern High School, and the band went on to win multiple Grammy Awards.
Carol Aebersold and her twin daughters, Chanda Bell and Christa Pitts, are creators
of “Elf on the Shelf,” the Christmas book that since publication in 2005 has seen millions of people invite a little elf into their homes during the holidays. All three are Cobb County natives.
Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon, of Vinings, is widely regarded as one of the best directors on Broadway. In recent years, he has turned his sights to television, winning acclaim for directing live TV versions of musicals like “The Wiz” and “Hairspray.” Another Tony winner, singer and actor Shuler Paul Hensley, grew up in Marietta. The Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards are named in Schuler’s honor.
Cobb-based artist Thomas Arvid has received national acclaim for his photorealistic oil paintings.
Billy Joe Royal, who wrote “Down in the Boondocks,” grew up in Marietta.
Cobb has had more than its fair share of accomplished athletes come from the area, including 2019 FIFA World Cup champion Emily Sonnett, a Marietta resident. Another soccer star was born in Kennesaw: Jane Campbell was the youngest goalkeeper ever called to a national training camp for the senior United States women’s national soccer team. Kendell Williams, a Kell High School graduate, was a seven-time NCAA champion in track and field for the University of Georgia and went on to compete for the U.S. in the 2016 Olympics, and finished fifth in the heptathlon in the 2020 games in Tokyo.
Marietta resident Daniel Haugh won the first NCAA national championship for Kennesaw State by winning the hammer throw in 2019. He went on to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo and finished 11th in the event.
Locals can find another homegrown athlete at the ballpark when the Atlanta Braves play at Truist Park: Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson is a Marietta High School alum. Infielder Michael Chavis, a Sprayberry graduate, plays for the Washington Nationals. Pope’s Nate Lowe is with the Texas Rangers, while his younger brother, Josh, is with the Tampa Bay Rays. Former Kennesaw Mountain star Tyler Stephenson is a catcher for the Cincinnati Reds.
North Cobb’s Harry Ford was selected by the Mariners in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft and has played for the Mariners’ minor league teams.
Cobb has recently sent a number of players to the NFL.
Former Harrison High School quarterback Justin Fields got his college football start at the University of Georgia before joining Ohio State, where he led the Buckeyes to a National Championship appearance. Fields was the 11th overall pick of the 2021 NFL draft, selected by the Chicago Bears.
Sprayberry has four former players in the league. The Yellow Jackets have running back Jerick McKinnon (Kansas City), defensive end Jabari Zuniga (N.Y. Jets), kicker Rodrigo Blankenship (Tampa Bay) and running back Trey Sermon (San Francisco).
Bradley Chubb was selected with the No. 5 overall selection in 2018 by the Denver Broncos and is now with the Miami Dolphins. The year prior, Evan Engram was the No. 23 pick to the New York Giants (he has since gone to Jacksonville) and in 2016, Kenyan Drake was a third-round pick of the Miami Dolphins (he now plays for Las Vegas). All three men are graduates of Hillgrove High School.
McEachern has two players in the NFL — offensive lineman Chuma Edoga (N.Y. Jets) and offensive lineman Tremayne Anchrum (L.A. Rams).
Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller, now with the New York Giants, attended North Cobb High School and Georgia Tech.
South Cobb’s Justin Jones plays for the Chicago Bears. Former Marietta and Georgia standout Azeez Ojulari was taken in the second round of the 2021 draft by the New York Giants.
The NBA currently has three former Cobb stars making a name for themselves. Wheeler’s Jaylen Brown has been with the Boston Celtics since 2016, Pebblebrook’s Collin Sexton was a first-round selection of Cleveland in 2018, and the Cavaliers followed that by drafting former McEachern star Isaac Okoro in 2020.
Currently, former Wheeler stars and brothers Shareef Abdur-Rahim and Amir AbdurRahim are also making their mark in basketball off the court. Shareef, after a 13-year career in the NBA, and a member of the
2000 Olympic team that won the gold medal in Sydney, Australia, is now the president of the NBA’s developmental league, the G League. Amir has been a coach since 2006 and earned his first head coaching job when he took over the men’s program at Kennesaw State in 2019, leading the Owls to the 2023 NCAA Tournament before taking a job at Florida Atlantic.
Other Cobb athletes of note include golfer Ollie Schniederjans, the former No. 1 amateur golfer in the world, who grew up in west Cobb and graduated from Harrison High School.
Quarterback Eric Zeier, played for Marietta High School before going on to play at the University of Georgia and the NFL. He is the current color commentator on the Bulldogs’ radio network.
Three-time major champion and World Golf Hall of Famer Larry Nelson has lived in Cobb. Retired Atlanta United defender Mark Bloom was born in Marietta.
Retired NBA all-star Dale Ellis was a 3-point
sharpshooter who played throughout the NBA and at Marietta High School. Josh Smith, who attended McEachern and Whitefield Academy, had a 13-year career, including nine seasons in Atlanta.
Former Pope softball star Kelly Barnhill was the 2017 USA Collegiate Softball Player of the Year while at the University of Florida and won the ESPY as the Women’s Collegiate Athlete of the Year.
Cody Runnels turned a successful wrestling career at Lassiter High School into years of professional wrestling. He wrestles as Cody Rhodes for WWE after a tenure with All Elite Wrestling. Rhodes has also had a few stints as an actor, making appearances on the Netflix superhero show “Arrow” in its fifth and seventh seasons.
Former Sprayberry wrestler Austin Watson has achieved great notoriety with WWE under the name of Xavier Woods.
Former U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson lived in east Cobb. He retired at the end of 2019 due to health challenges related to Parkinson’s disease after 45 years of public service, and
Former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes grew up in Mableton and lives in Marietta, where his law firm is based. Former Attorney General Sam Olens lives in Marietta and works as an attorney for the global law firm Dentons. Other notable political locals include former U.S. Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former U.S. Rep. Bob Barr and Gen. Lucius D. Clay, a hero of the Berlin Airlift. The late Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Harris Hines spent most of his life in Marietta, where a bridge was dedicated
Carolyn Meadows, an east Cobb native, recently served as president of the National
Former U.S. Treasury Secretary William Gibbs McAdoo Jr. grew up in Marietta. McAdoo is notable for serving as United States president for one day while President Woodrow Wilson and everyone else in the line of succession was out of Washington for Christmas.
One of the co-founders of the Parent Teacher Association of America, Alice McLellan Birney,
Veterans in Cobb County can find many groups to meet fellow veterans and get assistance.
Anyone who has served active federal duty for at least one day during wartime can join the American Legion by filling out a form at a local post or by going online to www. legion.org/join.
Any veteran who served in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters and is currently serving or was honorably discharged can join the Veterans of Foreign Wars Association by visiting a post or going to www. vfw.org/join.
Disabled American Veterans provides services, transportation and counseling to veterans in need.
Horace Orr Post 29 921 Gresham Avenue, Marietta 770-427-5900, post29marietta.org
Ron Asby North Cobb Post 304 4220 S. Main Street, Acworth 678-217-5738, post304.org
Austell Post 216 3914 Ewing Road, Austell 770-943-7030
Paul E. Kelly Jr. Post 296 906 West Atlanta Street, Marietta 770-427-6595, post296marietta.org
Smyrna Post 160 160 Legion Drive, Smyrna 770-436-2501, alpost160.com
Powder Springs Post 294 3282 Florence Road, Powder Springs 770-439-0956, post294.org
John R. Dodgen Post 264 6251 Ivey Road, Mableton 770-944-8099
Post 5408 4764 Cobb Parkway, Acworth 770-974-0958, post5408.org
Rainbow Post 2681 140 Powers Ferry Road, Marietta 770-977-2088, vfw2681.org
Chapter 6
1290 Kennestone Circle, D-111, Marietta 678-388-1568, davchapter6.com
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is an American fraternal order that dates back to 1868. It got its start in New York as the “Jolly Corks,” a collection of 15 actors, entertainers and others. Today, headquartered at Elks National Veterans Memorial in Chicago, it is one of the leading fraternal orders in the United States, claiming nearly a million members and nearly 2,000 “lodges” across the country.
Elk lodges bring more to their communities than just a building, golf course or pool. They are places where neighbors come together, families share meals, and children grow up. Elks invest in their communities through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free by undertaking projects that address unmet needs and by honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans.
The Marietta Elks Lodge No. 1657, the only lodge in Cobb County, is in Marietta on Powder Springs Road.
Marietta Elks Lodge — (770) 795-9490
Parent organization: Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America
Founded: 1868
Founded in Cobb: 1942
Number of chapters in Cobb: 1
Number of members: 85
Membership dues: $124/year
Website: www.elks.org
The Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. is one of the oldest and largest women’s volunteer organizations in the world. Its mission is promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Founded in 1901 by New Yorker and social activism pioneer Mary Harriman, the Junior Leagues are charitable nonprofit organizations of women, developed as civic leaders, making a demonstrable impact on their communities.
The Junior League of Cobb-Marietta is made up of 300 women, and in nearly 90 years of community service has supported many projects, particularly those benefiting children, including the Cobb County Youth Museum, The Center for Children and Young Adults, Gate City Nursery and Sheltering Arms Daycare.
Prospective members must be at least 22 years old, reside or work within a 30-mile radius of Cobb County and demonstrate an interest in voluntarism and a commitment to community service.
Junior League of Cobb-Marietta — (770) 422-5266
Parent organization: Association of Junior Leagues International
Founded: 1901
Founded in Cobb: 1933
Number of chapters in Cobb: 1
Number of members: 206
Membership dues:
$255/year (active) or $90 (sustainer)
Website: www.jlcm.org
Kiwanis Club
Kiwanis clubs are as diverse as the neighborhoods and cities across the 80 countries where they have been established, but what they have in common is a commitment to service. Its international motto is “Serving the children of the world.”
Kiwanis was founded in 1915 by a group of businessmen in Detroit and adopted the name from a Native American expression that means “we trade.”
Kiwanis clubs focus on changing the world by serving children, one child and one community at a time. To do this, many clubs also sponsor a Kiwanis family club — K-Kids for primary school children; Builders Clubs for adolescents; Key Clubs for teens; Circle K International clubs for university students and Aktion Clubs for adults with disabilities — to reach more people and have a greater service impact on their communities.
Kiwanis members stage nearly 150,000 service projects, devote more than 19 million hours of service and raise more than $100 million every year for communities, families and projects.
Parent Organization: Kiwanis International
Founded: 1915
Founded in Cobb: 1930
Number of chapters in Cobb: 8
Number of members: Varies by chapter
Membership dues: Vary by chapter
Website: www.kiwanis.org
Greater South Cobb: www.facebook.com/gsckiwanis
Jonquil City: jonquilcitykiwanis.org
Lost Mountain: www.lostmountainkiwanis.org
Marietta: Kiwanis Club of Marietta
www.mariettakiwanis.org
Marietta Golden “K”: sites.google.com/view/kiwanisclubofmariettagoldenk/home
Metro Marietta: facebook.com/groups/1575433252683985
Galleria-Northwest Atlanta Kiwanis Club: www.facebook. com/GalleriaNWATLKiwanis
The service club organization Lions Clubs International boasts more than 1.4 million members and more than 47,000 clubs across 200+ countries.
It was founded in the United States on June 7, 1917, by Melvin Jones, a Chicago businessman.
Lions do whatever is needed to help their local communities. They engage in a broad range of service projects and have five causes where they give international support: diabetes, the environment, hunger, vision and childhood cancer.
Parent organization: Lions Club International
Founded: 1917
Founded in Cobb: 1944
Number of chapters in Cobb: 6
Number of members: Varies by chapter
Membership dues: Vary by chapter
Website: www.lionsclubs.org
Atlanta Latino: e-clubhouse.org/sites/atlantalatino
East Cobb: eastcobblions.club
Marietta: e-clubhouse.org/sites/marietta_ga
North Cobb: northcobblionsclub.com
Smyrna Jonquil: e-clubhouse.org/sites/smyrnaj
South Cobb: www.facebook.com/SOUTHCOBBLIONSCLUB
Optimist International is a worldwide volunteer organization made up of more than 2,500 local clubs, whose members work each day to make the future brighter by bringing out the best in children, in their communities and in themselves.
Optimist International’s motto is “Friend of Youth” and the organization also uses the branding statement “Bringing Out the Best in Kids.”
The first Optimist Club was formed in Buffalo, New York in 1911, and a small association of clubs joined together in what became Optimist International in 1919. The international headquarters is in St. Louis.
Optimist International is also the sponsor of Junior Optimist Octagon International designed for elementary school- through high school-aged youth.
Parent organization: Optimist International
Founded: 1916
Founded in Cobb: 1962
Number of chapters in Cobb: 2
Number of members: Varies by chapter
Membership dues: Vary by chapter
Website: optimist.org
Kennesaw: facebook.com/Kennesaw-Acworth- OptimistClub-622505814538651/ Smyrna: www.smyrnaoptimist.org
Rotary International is a global network of volunteers who work together to create lasting change in their communities.
The organization got its start when attorney Paul Harris founded the Rotary Club of Chicago in 1905. It now has 1.2 million members in more than 35,000 clubs.
Rotarians work together to promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene; help mothers and children; support education; and grow local economies.
Parent organization: Rotary International
Founded: 1905
Founded in Cobb: 1919
Number of chapters in Cobb: 8
Number of members: Varies by chapter
Membership dues: Vary by chapter
Website: rotary.org
Atlanta Brasil: atlantabrasilrotary.club
East Cobb: eastcobbrotary.com
Marietta: mariettarotary.org
Marietta-Metro: mariettametrorotary.org
North Cobb: northcobbrotary.org
Smyrna: smyrnarotary.org
South Cobb: southcobbrotary.org
Vinings Cumberland: viningsrotary.org
The historic club was founded more than a century ago and is a place for neighbors to meet and get to know each other and maintain the beauty of Vinings.
The purpose of the organization is to inform the community, maintain the residential character of the neighborhood and promote civic and social welfare.
Founded: 1919
Number of chapters in Cobb: 1
Number of members: 250
Membership dues: $30 (individual); $40 (family)
Website: www.thevvcc.org
October 14 - 15, 2023
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Downtown Marietta Development Authority
Humane Society of Cobb County
148 S. Fairground Street SE, Marietta, Ga. 30060
Phone: 770-428-5678
Hours: Monday — Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. www.humanecobb.com
Good Mews Animal Foundation
3805 Robinson Road, Marietta, Ga. 30068
Phone: 770-499-2287
Adoption hours: Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. www.goodmews.org
Homeless Pets Foundation
1343 Gresham Road, Marietta, Ga. 30062
Phone: 770-971-0100
Hours: Monday — Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.homelesspets.com
Our Pal’s Place
4508 Canton Road, Marietta, Ga. 30066
Phone: 678-795-0202
Adoption hours: Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; weekdays by appointment opp.ourpalsplace.org
Mutt Madd-ness Dog Rescue
P.O. Box 71821, Marietta, Ga. 30007
Phone: 404-406-6322
Adoption hours: Saturdays, noon-3 p.m. at Petco East Cobb, 1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, GA 30068. www.muttmaddness.org
Cobb County Animal Services
1060 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta, Ga. 30008
Phone: 770-499-4136
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; adoptions by appointment
www.cobbcounty.org/public-safety/animal-services
Fancy Feline Rescue of the South
860 Cobb Place Blvd NW, Kennesaw Ga. 30144
Phone: 770-424-5226
Hours: Second and third weekend of each month, Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays, 1-4 p.m. www.fancyfelinerescue.org
Georgia House Rabbit Society
3114 Cherokee St. NW, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144
Phone: 678-653-7175
Monday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.
Adoptions by appointment only www.houserabbitga.com
Bosley’s Place
3485 South Cobb Drive SE, Smyrna, Ga. 30080 Phone: 404-565-4025
Adoption hours: Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. www.bosleysplace.com
Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue and Adoption
3238 Cherokee St. NW, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144 Phone: 770-272-6888
Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday www.mostlymutts.org
Kitty Angel Rescue
Kennesaw Petsmart, 860 Cobb Place Blvd, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144
Phone: 404-272-8962
Monday through Thursday by appointment
Friday: 4-8 p.m., Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: noon-5 p.m. www.kittyangelrescue.org
Puppy Land
125 Ernest W Barrett Parkway NW Suite 108, Marietta, Ga. 30066
Phone: 470-497-1488
Monday — Saturday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday: noon-8 p.m. www.puppylandgeorgia.com
Best Friends in Atlanta
1692 Oak St. SE, Marietta, Ga. 30060
Phone: 404-815-6680
Thursday — Friday: noon to 6 p.m.;
Saturday: noon to 5 p.m.; appointment only
www.bestfriends.org/atlanta
Welcome home to Cobb County, where the property taxes are among the lowest, the economic powerhouses are among the best and communities are among the strongest in all of metro Atlanta. As a new resident, we invite you to take a look at the following information.
One of your first stops might be one of the county’s two Government Service Centers designed to bring services closer to its residents. The South Cobb Service Center and the East Cobb Service Center contain full-service tag offices and allow residents to pay water bills, make property tax payments, apply for property tax exemptions, obtain business applications, get documents notarized, pick up state and federal tax forms and purchase CobbLinc transit tickets. Details on those centers and other information helpful to new residents of Cobb County are listed below.
East Cobb Service Center
4400 Lower Roswell Rd, Marietta
770-528-8600
South Cobb Service Center
4700 Austell Road, Austell
770-499-4494
Business Offices:
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tag Offices: Monday-Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Certain offices within the service center may have varying hours of operation
Cobb County Government (main office)
100 Cherokee Street
Marietta 30090
770-528-1000
www.cobbcounty.org
Cobb County Locations: Marietta
1605 County Services Parkway
Marietta, GA 30008
Hours: Tues.-Fri., 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Sat., 7:30 a.m. to noon
Kennesaw
3690 Old 41 Highway NW Kennesaw, GA 30144
Hours: Tues.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.6:30 p.m.; Sat., 7:30 a.m. to noon
What to bring:
• An original or certified document to prove who you are such as a birth certificate or passport
• Social Security card or other proof of Social Security number
• Two documents showing your residential address such as a bank statement or utility bill
• If you have had a name change, a document to prove that, such as a marriage license
• Any out-of-state IDs, to surrender More information: www.dds.ga.gov or 678-413-8400
To reach voter registration eligibility residents must be:
• A United States citizen
• A legal resident of a Georgia county
• At least 17½ years old
• 18 years old before or on Election Day
• Not been found mentally incompetent by a judge
• Not serving a sentence for conviction of a felony
To register or change your registration address, visit mvp.sos. ga.gov, mail a voter registration form to the Cobb elections office or register in-person at the elections office. A valid driver’s license or state ID card is required to register. Cobb Board of Elections Main Office
995 Roswell Street NE Marietta, GA 30060
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. More info: Call Cobb Elections at 770-528-2581 or visit cobbcounty.org/elections
The Tax Commissioner’s Office is responsible for every phase of collecting and disbursing ad valorem property taxes. There are two divisions: Property Tax Division and Motor Vehicle Division.
Cobb County Tax Commissioner Main Property Tax Office
736 Whitlock Avenue NW Marietta 30064
East Satellite Office
4400 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 30068
South Satellite Office
4700 Austell Road, Austell 30106
Hours and phone number for all locations:
770-528-8600
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More info: cobbtax.org
Vehicles must be titled and registered in the state of Georgia within 30 days of establishing residency.
East Cobb Government Center
4400 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 30068
North Tag Office — Canton Road Shopping Center
2932 Canton Road NE, Suite 300, Marietta 30066
South Cobb Govt. Center
4700 Austell Road, Austell 30106
West Cobb County Fire Station #28
3858 Kemp Ridge Road, Acworth 30101
All offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Self-service, 24/7 tag kiosks are available at the South Cobb Government Center, North Tag Office, East Cobb Government Center and at five Kroger stores across Cobb. Visit cobbtax. org/locations for more information.
The Property Tax Division bills, collects and distributes ad valorem property taxes. It is responsible for auditing, accounting, disbursing and reporting of collections, processing homestead exemption applications and levying taxes on property. Taxes are mailed by Aug. 15 and payment is due by Oct. 15. If a bill is not received by Aug. 30, a copy can be obtained at www. cobbtax.org.
Cobb County Tax Commissioner
736 Whitlock Avenue, Marietta 30064
770-528-8600
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
East Cobb Government Center 4400 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 30068-4233
South Cobb Government Center 4700 Austell Road, Austell 30106
Residents can go to these offices to pay taxes, file for exemptions and conduct basic motor vehicle transactions.
Water:
Cobb County Water System
660 South Cobb Drive SE, Marietta 30060
770-419-6200
cobbcounty.org/water
Gas: A complete list of all gas providers is located at www.psc. state.ga.us under the Natural Gas/ Approved Natural Gas Marketers provider. Gas is provided by Atlanta Gas Light but sold to consumers by a number of marketers.
Electric:
Cobb EMC 770-429-2100
Georgia Power 1-888-660-5890
Greystone Power 770-942-6576
Marietta Power 770-794-5150
Acworth Power 770-917-8903
Cobb County does not provide countywide garbage or sanitation service, rather, several private companies provide these services. A number of them are listed below.
Garbage Collection
(unincorporated Cobb County)
American Disposal
678-720-0500
B Green Services
404-660-1392
Community Waste Disposal
770-382-0736
Custom Disposal Services
770-977-2788
Cycle Works Sanitation
770-592-1515
Hugh’s Garbage Service
770-529-9330
Plum Crazy Disposal
678-994-6269
Quality Sanitation Service
770-944-7769
Smith’s Sanitation
770-941-2498
Waste Management
678-495-0058
West Cobb Sanitation
770-499-1279
Garbage collection inside the city of:
Acworth 770-917-8903
Austell 770-944-4325
Kennesaw 770-421-8582
Marietta 770-794-5595
Powder Springs 770-943-8010
Smyrna 678-631-5438
RECYCLING
Cobb County encourages its residents to recycle. Many of the municipalities offer curbside pickup of recyclables for city residents. If you live in unincorporated Cobb, you’ll need to contract with your garbage hauler for curbside recycling.
Recycling Facilities
WestRock Recycling Center
1775 County Services Parkway SW
Marietta 30008
678-403-3900
Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Electronics Recycling
Advanced Disposal Services
(ADS) Transfer Station
1897 County Services Parkway
SW, Marietta 30008
770-485-8940
Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
TAG Grinding Services, Inc.
Vegetative Waste Recovery Center
2150 County Services Parkway
SW, Marietta 30008
Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information:
Keep Cobb Beautiful
770-528-1135
Keep Marietta Beautiful
770-794-5606
Keep Smyrna Beautiful
770-431-2863
SCHOOL ENROLLMENT
Cobb County School District
Enrollment
514 Glover Street, Marietta 30060
770-426-3300
Website: cobbk12.org
• Proof of residency
• Certified birth certificate from your state department of vital statistics or other accepted document
• Hearing, Dental, Vision and Nutrition Screening Certificate
• Certificate of Immunization
• Certain documents such as report card, transcript, discipline record and withdrawal form may be required if transferring schools.
Marietta City Schools
Enrollment
250 Howard St., Marietta 30060
770-422-3500
Website: www.marietta-city.org
Required enrollment documents:
• Birth Certificate
• Custody Documentation
• Hearing, Dental, Vision and Nutrition Screening Certificate
• Certificate of Immunization
• Proof of Residency
• Certain documents such as report card, transcript, discipline record and withdrawal form may be required if transferring schools.
Immunizations:
Contact Cobb and Douglas Public Health at 770-514-2300
Website: cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org
South Cobb Service Center
4700 Austell Road, Austell 30106
770-499-4494
Cobb Elections and Registration
995 Roswell Street NE, Marietta, 30060
770-528-2581
Cobb Animal Services
1060 Al Bishop Dr., Marietta 30008
770-499-4136
Cobb Tax Assessor’s Office
736 Whitlock Avenue, Suite 200, Marietta, 30064
770-528-3100
Cobb County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs
1792 County Services Parkway SW, Marietta, 30008
770-528-8800
Cobb County Department of Transportation
1890 County Services Parkway
SW, Marietta 30008
770-528-1600
Cobb County Library System
266 Roswell Street Marietta 30060
770-528-2320
Visit www.cobbcounty.org/library to find a branch near you
Cobb County Police
Department Headquarters
Chief Stuart VanHoozer
545 S. Fairground Street, Marietta 30060
770-499-3900
Cobb Fire Department
Chief Bill Johnson
1595 County Services Parkway, Marietta, 30008
770-528-8000
We work everyday to make the Town Center community a vibrant place to grow a business, raise a family, shop and work, earn a degree, and enjoy the outdoors.
Cobb Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Craig Owens
185 Roswell Street, Marietta 30060
770-499-4600
Cobb County Permit Office
1150 Powder Springs Street, Suite 400, Marietta, 30064
770-528-2060
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Business Licenses Office
1150 Powder Springs Street Marietta, 30064
770-528-8410
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Do Not Call Registry accepts registrations from both cellphones and land lines. To register by telephone, call 1-888-382-1222. You must call from the phone number that you want to register. To register online (donotcall.gov), you will have to respond to a confirmation email.
Call 911 for emergencies. Non-emergency numbers are listed below.
Acworth:
Acworth Police Department
4440 Acworth Industrial Drive
Acworth 30101
770-974-1232
Chief of Police: Jesse D. Evans jevans@acworth.org
Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services Station 11 4550 Cowan Road, Acworth 30101
770-917-5150
Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services Station 28 3858 Kemp Ridge Rd, Acworth, 30101
770-528-8000
Austell: Austell Police Department 2721 Joe Jerkins Boulevard Austell 30106, 770-944-4331
Chief of Police: Scott Hamilton Austell Fire Department 5300 Austell-Powder Springs Road SW, Austell 30106
770-944-4333
Fire Chief: Brandon Merritt bmerritt@austellga.gov
Kennesaw: Kennesaw Police Department
2539 J.O. Stephenson Avenue
Kennesaw 30144
770-429-4532
Chief of Police: Bill Westenberger wwestenberger@kennesaw-ga.gov
Marietta: Marietta Police Department 240 Lemon Street, Marietta 30060
770-794-5300
Chief of Police: Marty Ferrell mferrell@mariettaga.gov
Marietta Fire Department 112 Haynes St., Marietta 30060
770-794-5450
Fire Chief: Tim Milligan tmillig2@mariettaga.gov
Powder Springs: Powder Springs Police Department 1114 Richard D. Sailors Parkway P.O. Box 46
Powder Springs 30127
770-943-1616
Chief of Police: Lane Cadwell lcadwell@cityofpowdersprings.org
Smyrna: Smyrna Police Department 2646 Atlanta Road, Smyrna 30080
770-434-9481
Chief of Police: Keith Zgonc kzgonc@smyrnaga.gov
Smyrna Fire Department 2620 Atlanta Road, Smyrna 30080
770-434-6667
Fire Chief: Brian Marcos bmarcos@smyrnaga.gov
We are neighbors and business leaders — we are are Town
If the City of Acworth had a resume, at the top of its list of honors would be an induction into the All-America City Hall of Fame. Thirteen years ago, it was named an AllAmerica City. More recently, Acworth was one of two cities annually inducted into the All-America City Hall of Fame.
The Parkside District is one of three vibrant downtown Acworth districts. It is home to two historically Black churches, as well as two schools that were established during segregation and now serve as community centers and spaces. As the city has grown and thrived, it earmarked funding to build parks, a community center, new restaurants and businesses, an art center and homes in the Parkside District, all of which help make sure Black historical landmarks are preserved.
In addition to the Parkside District and the Historic Downtown District, the city expanded its footprint in 2023 ear with the newly branded Acworth Mill District. Each of the three districts is special and unique in what it offers.
The Historic Downtown District is home to many dining and shopping venues in Acworth’s historic two-block area, which includes City Hall, Depot Park, Henry’s Louisiana Grill, Center Street Tavern and Fusco’s Via Roma, to name a few. The Parkside District is rich in AfricanAmerican heritage, full of park space and the site of the Acworth Community Center. It is home to most Acworth events at Logan Farm Park, along with the 1885 Grill, Doyal Hill Park, the Acworth Rosenwald School, Acworth Community Garden and the Acworth Farmers’ Market. The Acworth Mill District is filled with history from the
Cowan Historic Mill to the Coats & Clark Mill Village, including Red Top Brewhouse, Hippie Kids, J.D.’s BBQ, Flavors of Hawaii and Appalachian Outfitters.
Its accolades are many, including being designated as a Georgia Exceptional Main Street City, which is awarded to those cities that preserve character and history while growing their downtowns. In addition, while its three thriving downtown districts continue to draw residents and visitors, Acworth is perhaps best known as “The Lake City,” primarily for its two lakes, the largest one being Lake Allatoona which covers 12,000 acres and has 270 miles of shoreline when it is full. With its two lakes, including Lake Acworth, the city is home to four beaches and is a favorite place for fishing, boating, kayaking and paddle boarding. The city is also surrounded by 14 parks and Cobblestone Golf Course is situated on the banks of Lake Acworth.
The city of Acworth began around 1845 as a railroad stop known as Northcutt Station along the Western and Atlantic Railroad line. It was incorporated in 1860, and is now home to more than 22,000 people. Acworth is governed by a mayor and Board of Aldermen, with the city manager running the day-to-day business of the city.
Places of Interest: See numerous places of interest all at once along the Acworth Historic Walking Tour. Participants will see houses, churches and buildings, many of which date back to the early 1800s. The city has more than 300 historic buildings. Enjoy visiting the three downtown districts and remember, parking is free. No matter the season, there is always something to see and do in the city’s 14 parks. Lake Acworth and Lake Allatoona offer year-round fun and activities.
Annual Events: Acworth Art Fest; Live! At Logan Farm Park; Smoke on the Lake; Concert on the Green: A Juneteenth Celebration; 4th of July Concert and Fireworks at Cauble Park; Pizza, Pints and Pigskins; Concert on the Green: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month; Taste of Acworth; Acworth Turkey Chase 5K Fun Run; Santa’s Arrival and Acworth Menorah Lighting.
A Bit of History: The Cowan Historic Mill was built by John Cowan, who struck gold in Montana’s “Last Chance Gulch” in the mid 1800s. Cowan and three others from Acworth are credited with the founding of Helena, Montana. Acworth got its name from a railroad engineer named Joseph Gregg, who renamed the train stop after his hometown of Acworth, New Hampshire.
Famous Residents: Professional soccer player Warren Creavalle; professional baseball player Clarke Schmidt and PGA Tour and World Golf Hall of Fame Member Larry Nelson.
What’s New in Acworth: This year the city welcomes its third and newest downtown district, the newly branded Acworth Mill District. At the gateway to the Acworth Mill District is the restored Cowan Mill, now an event venue that hosts weddings, social gatherings and musical events. Cowan is Acworth’s oldest commercial building built by John Cowan in the late 1870s. The mill initially produced flour and other goods, such as textiles and tapestries during various periods until the early 1970s. Today, the Mill District offers unique restaurants, breweries, clothing boutiques, outdoor and camping supplies.
Acworth City Hall 4415 Center Street, Acworth 30101 770-974-3112
www.acworth.org
The Board of Aldermen meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at City Hall in the council chambers.
Tommy Allegood, Mayor 678-801-4024 tallegood@acworth.org
Board of Aldermen:
Albert (Butch) Price, Post 1 770-974-4321 bprice@acworth.org
Gene Pugliese, Post 2 678-801-4004 gpugliese@acworth.org
Brett North, Post 3 678-801-4006 bnorth@acworth.org
Tim Richardson, Post 4 678-801-4009
trichardson@acworth.org
Tim Houston, Post 5 678-508-2801 thouston@acworth.org
Jesse Evans, Chief of Police 770-974-1232
jevans@acworth.org
Historically recognized as a therapeutic city, Austell was incorporated in 1885, after interest in its surrounding natural springs gained in popularity. The city continued to grow and today, it remains a vibrant home to about 7,900 residents in southwest Cobb County. Located just four miles north of Interstate 20, connections to Atlanta, Douglasville, and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — ”the gateway to the world” — make Austell minutes from almost anywhere.
The city was named after Gen. Alfred Austell, a banker and railroad builder who organized the Atlanta National Bank and served on the first Atlanta Board of Education. Austell was home to the first transit station and division site of the old Georgia Pacific Railway for routes to Birmingham and Chattanooga. The railway helped the city grow, attracting trainspotters with its historic merging railways in the heart of the town. Today, Austell is host to one of the region’s largest variety of trains and attracts railfans from everywhere because of these two merging railways.
Austell remains one of “Cobb County’s best kept secrets” providing an easy-going, small-town atmosphere, but
still within arm’s reach of Atlanta. Cobb County’s first public school was built in Austell in 1890, where Austell Elementary is now located. Austell established long ago to be a “city of opportunity” and strives for growth for its citizens and businesses.
The 6-square-mile city rose to fame as a natural health resort. Originally known as Salt Springs for its lithiumrich water springs with supposedly medicinal qualities, Austell thrived as a tourist destination in the early 20th century. These springs guided the establishment of several resort spas. Today, Austell manages 91 acres of green space, parks and trails including Sweetwater Creek, which offers unique fishing and kayaking experiences.
Governed by a six-member council, the city of Austell is led by Mayor Ollie Clemons who was elected in January 2020 as the first Black mayor to serve the city in its history.
Places of Interest: Lithia Springs Water at Frog Rock; disc golf at Suggs Memorial Park; Sweetwater Creek for fishing and kayaking; railfanning as rail lines from the west and north merge downtown, coupled with the nearby intermodal railyard offer some of the best opportunities for diverse rail sightings; and 11 city parks.
Annual Events: Austell BBQ, Blues & Brews live music and food festival; Lighting of the Green Tree and Santa’s Arrival. A Bit of History: Austell became famous initially as a natural health resort due to reported healing lithium spring waters and its picturesque setting. Several spas opened and were visited by dignitaries of all kinds. Austell later became the home to Mae “Louise” Suggs, one of the founding members of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. Her course is now the Frog Rock Disc Golf venue, one of the highest rated disc golf courses in the region.
Famous Residents: LPGA founding member Mae “Louise” Suggs; Author James Dashner and Singer Ray Stevens
What’s new in Austell: The city of Austell is experiencing a resurgence of investment, both residential and commercial. A 100,000-square-foot virtual ghost kitchen venture is in the works, allowing a pathway for start-up restaurateurs to grow their vision. Frog Rock Brewing Company, the city’s first brewery located in the new downtown development, Cincinnati Junction, will have an eatery as well as a vast outdoor beer garden, live entertainment stage and gathering area. The city is also publishing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to redevelop the historic Threadmill Complex and grounds for opportunities as a mixed-use entertainment and residential venture.
• People first came to the area for its therapeutic waters
• It is a favorite city for train enthusiasts to enjoy “trainspotting”
• In 1890, Austell was where Cobb County’s first public school was built
• Austell manages 91 acres of green space, parks and trails
Austell City Hall
2716 Broad Street, Austell 30106
770-944-4300
www.austellga.gov
City Council meetings are held the first Monday of each month at City Hall at 7 p.m.
Ollie Clemons Jr., Mayor mayor@austellga.gov
770-944-4328
City Council Members: Marlin Lamar, Ward 1 mlamar@austellga.gov
404-808-4003
Devon D. Myrick, Ward 2 dmyrick@austellga.gov
470-922-4632
Meredith Adams, Ward 3 madams@austellga.agov
470-366-1727
Sandra Leverette, Ward 4 sleverette@austellga.gov
470-755-4590
Melanie Maria Elder, At-Large, Post 1 melder@austellga.gov
470-922-4631
Valerie Anderson, At-Large, Post 2 vanderson@austellga.gov
470-755-4589
Austell Police Department
2721 Joe Jenkins Blvd., Austell 30106
770-944-4331
Scott Hamilton, Chief of Police 770-944-4338
Austell Fire and Emergency Services
5300 Austell-Powder Springs Road, Austell 30106 770-944-4333
Brandon Merritt, Fire Chief 770-944-4333
bmerritt@austellga.gov
With the nearing completion of a state-of-the-art amphitheater, to its gleaming office buildings, upscale restaurants and sophisticated shopping venues, it is hard to imagine this bustling showcase of 21st century success used to be known as Big Shanty. But there was a time, this prosperous community now named Kennesaw was indeed called Big Shanty.
Cobb County’s fourth most populated city with more than 33,500 residents began in the 1830s when the Georgia Legislature authorized construction of the Western and Atlantic Railroad line through the region. Several small towns were founded along the railroad, including Smyrna, Acworth and Big Shanty. Historians say the abundance of water and high ground adjacent to the railroad led to the construction of the railroad workers’ shanties, or shacks near present-day Kennesaw. As time went on, Big Shanty became home to those working on the railroad, along with other families moving into the area. The community continued to grow and would keep that name until long after the historic role it played in America’s Civil War — a role made famous today through books and movies. The 1956 Disney movie “The Great Locomotive Chase” tells the story.
On April 12, 1862, Union spies secretly boarded a northbound train at Marietta which was powered by the loco-
• It was known as Big Shanty for more than two decades after the Civil War ended
• “The Great Locomotive Chase,” a Disney movie, tells the daring wartime story of what happened when Union raiders took over a Confederate train
• Kennesaw has a population of 33,500-plus
• It is home to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, which straddles the city and Marietta
motive, The General. At Big Shanty, the crew and passengers left the train to eat breakfast at the Lacy Hotel and in plain view of Confederate soldiers, the Union raiders stole The General and headed north to destroy the Western and Atlantic Railroad.
Big Shanty lay in ruins following the Civil War, but by the 1870s, the town was beginning to recover. Stores sprang up, churches were built and the railroad was reconstructed. On Sept. 21, 1887, a petition for incorporation was presented to the Georgia Legislature and the city of Kennesaw was born. In the years that followed, Kennesaw endured ups and downs, as did most places in the South, where cotton was king until the boll weevil destroyed the industry and then in the early 20th century, the Great Depression took its toll across the country.
City historians say it was in the 1980s, that Kennesaw began its upward economic trek. Today, Kennesaw is home to some of the region’s top businesses and industries, as well as the site of the third largest university in the state—Kennesaw State University, according to recent college ranking sites.
The city made national news in 1982, when it unanimously passed a law requiring “every head of household to maintain a firearm together with ammunition.” After passage of the law, reports state the burglary rate in Kennesaw declined and the city is now often included on the list of the safest cities in Georgia.
Places of Interest: Swift-Cantrell Park, the City of Kennesaw’s largest community park features two playgrounds, three picnic pavilions, open turf, asphalt trails, splash pad, dog park, lighted skatepark and a wellness station. Swift-Cantrell includes an 18,500-square-foot inclusive playground. Other places of interest include The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History; Downtown’s Depot Park; Kennesaw State University and the Smith-Gilbert Gardens, a 16-acre botanical garden which includes the Hiram Butler House, dating to the 1880s. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park showcases the history of the Civil War where more than 67,000 soldiers died in Atlanta. The park was under the War Department in 1917, and was made part of the National Park System in 1933. The 2,888-acre park includes the site of some of the heaviest fighting of the Atlanta Campaign in the Civil War.
Annual Events: Garden events, such as Art Blooms and the Garden With Wings butterfly exhibit; Trains! Trains! Trains!; Big Shanty Arts & Crafts Festival; Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K Series; Civil War History Day; Railroad Rendezvous; Salute to America; Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival; Taste of Kennesaw; A Day With Santa and All Aboard for Holiday Fun.
A Bit of History: Some of the Union raiders were the first to be awarded the Medal of Honor by Congress for their actions. Today, The General locomotive is on display at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, a Smithsonian affiliate. The museum also has two Medals of Honor in its collection. The city’s name comes from the Cherokee word pronounced Gahneesah, which is what the Native Americans called Kennesaw Mountain.
Famous Residents: Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields; American journalist and host of CNN’s Student News Carl Azuz and actress, writer, producer and owner of Greenlight Acting Studio in Kennesaw, Erin Bethea.
What’s New in Kennesaw? Phase eight of Kennesaw’s master plan includes an amphitheater and festival area. Some say the amphitheater will be the “crown jewel” of the city’s downtown. Upon completion, the amphitheater will feature a 50-by-42-foot stage with a backstage area and will hold up to 2,000 people on the turf lawn. In addition to the stage, construction includes a restroom, storage facility and renovation of the Community House to serve as the green room for performers. The amphitheater, which will be host to city events and concerts is expected to be completed in the spring of 2024.
Kennesaw City Hall
2529 J.O. Stephenson Avenue
Kennesaw 30144
770-424-8274
City Council meets at 6:30 p.m., the first and third Monday of every month in the council chambers at City Hall.
Derek Easterling, Mayor
770-424-8274
deasterling@kennesaw-ga.gov
Council Members:
Lynette Burnette, Post 1 470-786-8771
lburnette@kennesaw-ga.gov
Tracey Viars, Post 2 404-822-8589
tviars@kennesaw-ga.gov
Pat Ferris, Post 3 404-599-5761
pferris@kennesaw-ga.gov
Antonio Jones, Post 4 404-599-6189
ajones@kennesaw-ga.gov
Trey Sinclair, Post 5 404-599-6185
tsinclair@kennesaw-ga.gov
From hometown history to hopping hotspots, burgers and brews to rhythm and views, there’s always something new to discover in Downtown Kennesaw.
Grab your favorite morning coffee and find a sunny spot to watch Main Street come to life. Meet the crew for lunch and a leisurely sidewalk storefront stroll. Explore some local history then make tracks to grab your favorite sweet treat. Catch up over a local brew, then catch a concert in the park. Every day, you’ll find a new way to play right here at home.
Welcome to Downtown Kennesaw. Welcome to Main Street on the Move. www.kennesawdowntown.com
Kennesaw Police Department
2539 J.O. Stephenson Avenue
Kennesaw 30144 770-429-4535
Bill Westenberger, Chief of Police
770-429-4535
wwestenberger@kennesaw-ga.gov.
Cobb’s newest city is also its largest. In a November 2022 referendum, voters approved the creation of Cobb’s seventh city by a decision of 53% to 47%.
The newly formed city of Mableton has about 77,500 residents across a broad swath of south Cobb.
Roughly speaking, the city is bordered by Douglas County to the southwest, the Chattahoochee River and the city of Smyrna to the southeast and east, Flint Hill Road and the city of Austell to the west, and Hurt Road/ East-West Connector to the north.
The city is governed by a mayor and six council members, with each council member being elected by the voters of their district and the mayor elected citywide.
Municipal elections were held in the spring of 2023, and the mayor and council held its first meeting in May. As of this writing, officials are going through training and passing ordinances to create the basic building blocks of a government.
While services have not yet been transitioned over from Cobb County, a feasibility study conducted prior to the referendum envisioned the city to offer planning and zoning, code enforcement, parks and recreation, sanitation and municipal court.
State law allows for a two-year period when the city
may phase in services and get the government up and running. During that time, Mableton officials will decide which services it wants to take over from Cobb, then negotiate with the county to make it happen.
The city elected to levy no property taxes in the 2024 fiscal year. For now, the city plans to fund itself via insurance premiums, franchise fees, motor vehicle taxes, building permits and occupation taxes.
The new city has not been without its critics. After the cityhood referendum passed, residents opposed to incorporation lobbied the state Legislature to deannex areas which voted against the city, but were unsuccessful.
In May 2023, a group of residents filed a lawsuit alleging the creation of the city was unconstitutional. The suit alleges the bill is unconstitutional because it created both the city and community improvement districts.
Mableton was previously a city from 1912 to 1916. After a brief stint of self-government, residents persuaded the state Legislature to abolish the town’s charter amid rising costs related to flood control.
Places of Interest: Mable House Amphitheatre and Arts Center, Six Flags Over Georgia, Discovery Park at the River Line.
A Bit of History: From 1912-1916, Dr. H.A. Glore served as Mableton’s first mayor. Mableton takes its name from Robert Mable, who purchased 300 acres of land in the area in 1843.
Annual Events: Taste of Mableton, April
The city of Mableton does not yet have an office, website or phone number.
General inquiries can be sent to mableton@cobbcounty.org.
The Cobb County government hosts a website with information about the city at cobbcounty.org/ mableton.
For the time being, the council is meeting at the Riverside EpiCenter.
Riverside EpiCenter
135 Riverside Parkway Austell 30168
The council does not have regular meeting dates, but advertises meetings in the MDJ and on Facebook (facebook.com/ CityofMableton).
Michael Owens, Mayor michael@owensformableton.com
Ron Davis, District 1
Dami Oladapo, District 2
Keisha Jeffcoat, District 3
Patricia Auch, District 4
TJ Ferguson, District 5
Debora Herndon, District 6
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The city has some serious history, natural resources, famous people, gorgeous houses, thriving businesses, arts and culture—and all of that is just around its downtown square.
Marietta is often called “The Gem City” and it is indeed quite a jewel in the crown of Cobb County.
However, Marietta has known its share of difficult days. Union Gen. William T. Sherman occupied the city in 1864, after the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. Upon his departure, Union troops destroyed around 20 homes, the Georgia Military Institute and burned many buildings to the ground. Despite its devastation, Marietta managed to recover after the war. Prosperous families started moving in and building large beautiful homes throughout its downtown, many of which are still standing today.
Mills began to open and The Brumby Chair Company started manufacturing rocking chairs, while Glover Machine Works set about producing narrow-gauge locomotives. While war once brought disaster, decades later it would set Marietta on an upward economic trajectory that continues to this day. Bell Aircraft Corp. opened its Bell Bomber Plant in Marietta during World War II, turning the city into one of the Sunbelt’s main industrial centers as it worked to help win the war. Bell Bomber’s Marietta assembly lines supplied the U.S. Army Forces with 663 Boeing-designed B-29s, and at its peak, employed almost 30,000 workers, making Marietta a hub for aviation, which helped spur tremendous economic growth in the area.
After the war, the plant closed and sat idle until 1951, when it became home to Lockheed-Georgia, now known as Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s top global security and aerospace corporations. Marietta is also home to Dobbins Air Reserve base, which states its purpose is to “provide mission ready forces.”
Cobb’s county seat and largest city has about 61,500 residents who enjoy everything Marietta has to offer from historical sites to museums and arts and cultural events to shopping and dining, to simply strolling through one of its many parks or along its hiking trails.
Arts and culture are at the heart of entertainment in Marietta, which is home to several professional theaters, including the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre and the New Theatre in the Square. Each first Friday of the month, Marietta celebrates the arts together on the square during the Marietta Square Art Walk. Residents say the Marietta Square is the “beating heart of the city.” It is home to the 1.35-acre Glover Park, which features a threetiered fountain, gazebo and playground. The park regularly hosts city festivals and concerts. Historic buildings, restaurants and shops are all around the Marietta Square, making it a popular site for residents and visitors. Within its 23 square miles, there is much to see and do throughout the City of Marietta.
History shows the first Mariettans lived in the area in the 1830s, with local surveyor James Anderson creating the first town plat in 1833, and the state Legislature chartering Marietta the following year. The most popular theory on how the city got its name is that it was named after Mary Moore Cobb, wife of the man for whom Cobb County is named, U.S. Sen. Thomas Cobb.
Places of Interest: The Strand Theatre; Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum; Marietta History Center; Marietta Square; Elizabeth Porter Park and Sprayground; Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and Marietta Cobb Museum of Art.
Annual Events: Marietta the Gathering; Glover Park Concert Series; Taste of Marietta; May-retta Daze Arts & Crafts Festival; Juneteenth; July 4th Annual Parade, Festival and Fireworks; Art in the Park; Harvestfest; Chalktoberfest and Santa on the Square.
A Bit of History: The city was home to the Georgia Military Institute’s first superintendent, Col. Arnoldus V. Brumby. The Georgia Military Institute was founded in Marietta in 1851, and modeled on a curriculum similar to West Point. Many GMI students were called to active duty during the Civil War and the school was burned by Union troops in 1864. Marietta Square is built on land that was donated by the city’s first mayor, John H. Glover in 1852.
Famous Residents: County music singer Travis Tritt; celebrity chef and author, Alton Brown and Academy-awardwinning actress Joanne Woodward, who was the wife of actor Paul Newman. Also on the list is the 58th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Newt Gingrich,
who lived in Marietta while representing Georgia’s 6th Congressional District. This list includes former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, whose law practice sits just off the Square and Alan Ball, a writer and producer for such popular TV shows as “Here and Now,” “True Blood” and “Six Feet Under.”
What’s New in Marietta? The Marietta City Council recently adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which decreased taxes for the fifth year in a row. There is a new collection of “Gone With the Wind” artifacts at the Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum. Marietta Parks and Rec hosted the inaugural Marietta the Gathering event on the Square, which was a celebration of the geek community, pop culture and the arts.
Marietta City Hall 205 Lawrence Street Marietta 30060
770-794-5530
City Council meets the second Wednesday of every month in the council chambers of City Hall at 7 p.m.
Steve “Thunder” Tumlin, Mayor 770-794-5501
stumlin@mariettaga.gov
Council Members:
Cheryl Richardson, Ward 1 770-794-5526
crichardson@mariettaga.gov
Griffin L. Chalfant, Ward 2 770-351-7035
gchalfant@mariettaga.gov
Johnny Walker, Ward 3 770-794-5526
johnny.walker@mariettaga.gov
G.A. “Andy” Morris, Ward 4 770-527-2785
amorris@mariettaga.gov
M. Carlyle Kent, Ward 5 770-794-5526
mckent@mariettaga.gov
Andre L. Sims, Ward 6 770-794-5526
asims@mariettaga.gov
Joseph Goldstein, Ward 7 770-794-5526
jgoldstein@mariettaga.gov
Marietta Police Department 240 Lemon Street Marietta 30060
770-794-5300
Marty Ferrell, Police Chief
mferrell@mariettaga.gov
Marietta Fire Department 112 Haynes Street Marietta 30060
770-794-5450
Tim Milligan, Fire Chief tmillig2@mariettaga.gov
While it was the lure of finding gold that first brought settlers to this Cobb County community, today’s Powder Springs is “striking gold” of a different kind as it renovates its downtown and adds a mixed-use development to a city already alive with events, festivals, parks, restaurants, shopping and businesses.
In the heart of the city’s downtown is Thurman Springs Park, which, since it opened in 2020, has become the hub for city events, such as the award-winning Bringing The Sea to The Springs Seafood Festival each May, the city’s 4th of July Celebration and family nights featuring vendors, games and movies at dusk. Powder Springs’ Hardy Family Automotive Amphitheater hosts live performances during festivals and events, including the fall concert series while the park’s free splash pad allows visitors to cool off during the warmer months.
Across from Thurman Springs Park, named in honor of Mayor Al Thurman, is the city of Powder Springs’ former Municipal Court building, which will be renovated and expanded to become the site of a new Powder Springs City Hall and parking deck. The project is set to be completed in late 2024.
Marietta Street runs through downtown Powder Springs and includes numerous longtime businesses, such as Hand-Me-Up’s Consignment and Pear Tree Home Florist Gifts, while last year saw the opening of the city’s first brewery, Skint Chestnut Brewing Company, along with SGC Chicken and Seafood, a brick-and-mortar restaurant that originated and gained popularity as a food truck. Also, the Atlanta-based Novare Group is building a mixed-use development that will bring even more restaurants, shops, businesses and residents downtown.
In addition, expected to open this year is a 347,000-square-food logistics center and warehouse. The 20 West Intermodal Plan-
ning and Distribution Facility represents an investment of $35 million by Native Development and is expected to create up to 200 new jobs within the city.
Powder Springs first saw growth come its way when prospectors traveled to these parts in the 1820s looking for gold. Small amounts were reportedly found at Lost Mountain and in the area near Brownsville Road. A community began to grow and by 1838, it was incorporated as Springville. The name referred to the seven springs found within the boundaries of the city. The water of these springs is said to contain around 26 different minerals, some of which turn the sand black, making it look much like gunpowder. In 1859, the city was renamed Powder Springs.
Like other Cobb County cities, Powder Springs grew in conjunction with the railroad. The Seaboard Coastline rail ran through the city and eventually became known as the Silver Comet Trail, named after a train. Today, the Silver Comet Trail is a popular running and cycling trail that goes from nearby Smyrna to the Georgia-Alabama state line. The City of Powder Springs’ Silver Comet Linear Park is now the site of a professional skatepark.
In addition to its expected population growth and development this year, the City of Powder Springs will see the expansion of its borders following the completion of the annexation of property near Barrett Parkway and Macedonia to make way for a major mixeduse development.
Places of Interest: Thurman Springs Park with the Hardy Family Automotive Amphitheater and splash pad; the Silver Comet Trail; Silver Comet Linear Park; Powder Springs Park; Seven Springs Water Park; the Seven Springs Museum and Wildhorse Creek BMX track. Also of interest, Historic Downtown Powder Springs and The Southern Quilt Trail, which originated in Powder Springs and works to promote and preserve the history of traditional folk art quilt patterns handed down from generations. Stop by the “Welcome to Powder
Springs” mural on the side of Sweet Southern Coffee and Dessert on Marietta Street. It is the 50th mural by John W. Christian Studios and is part of the Georgia Mural Trail.
Annual Events: Spring Chicken Run benefiting Sweetwater Mission; National Day of Prayer, Bringing The Sea to The Springs Seafood Festival; Memorial Day and Veterans Day commemorations at the Veterans Memorial in front of the Powder Springs Library; Juneteenth; 4th of July Celebration; family nights at Thurman Springs Park; Summer Concert Series and the Brown Bag Concert Series in the fall. Other events include the Fall Festival featuring the Spooktacular Chase benefiting Vision Rehab and the city’s Trunk or Treat; hosting of the Mountain 2 River Fence Gallery in the fall in and around Thurman Springs Park and the City’s annual Christmas Parade the first Friday in December.
A Bit of History: In the 1850s, Powder Springs was a health resort. Doctors prescribed a trip to the springs and treatments of various lengths for patients with serious kidney and bladder diseases. Before the settlers arrived, the area’s seven springs were well known to the Indians. The Cherokee and Creek called the site Gunpowder Springs because of the mineral bearing sulfur and blackish sediment in the springs. Native Americans used the water of the springs for medicinal purposes and would bring their sick to the springs to take advantage of the curative power of the minerals. The spring located in the City of Powder Springs Park by Powder Creek was the most popular. It supplied water for the town of Powder Springs for many years as its only public water supply.
Famous Residents: Actress Robyn Elaine Lively, who is known for her roles in “Teen Witch,” “Karate Kid III,” “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” “Twin Peaks” and “Saving Grace.” Author, humorist and commentator on National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered,” Lauretta Hannon; A.W. Young, second baseman for the Atlanta Black Crackers Negro League and vice
president of the Cobb County branch of the NAACP; Lionel Watts, member of the All-League Baseball Team for the Georgia Cracker League and Johnny Hill, remembered for his .338 batting average that led the Atlanta Crackers to win the Dixie Series in 1938.
What’s New in Powder Springs? Being constructed around Powder Springs’ core is a transformative mixed-use development from Atlanta-based Novare Group. Designed to include 226 apartments with restaurant and retail space, Novare’s project will provide more rooftops to Powder Springs, which officials say has been Cobb County’s fastest growing city, citing the 2020 Census and succeeding Census estimates. The first units in this development should open by the end of this year, along with the first units of the 300-apartment Heartwood Powder Springs multifamily development on Brownsville Road at Oglesby Road. These residential developments, along with several single-family neighborhoods being built across the city are expected to offer incoming residents numerous choices in housing options.
Powder Springs City Hall
Due to renovations and a move to a new location, City Hall is temporarily located at 4426 Marietta Street. 770-943-1666 cityofpowdersprings.org City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
Council Members:
Henry Lust, Ward 1 770-943-1666, ext. 322 hlust@cityofpowdersprings.org
Doris Dawkins, Ward 2 770-943-1666, ext. 323 ddawkins@cityof powdersprings.org
Dwayne Green, Ward 3 770-943-1666, ext. 324 dgreen@cityof powdersprings.org
Patrick Bordelon, At-Large, Post 1 770-943-1666, ext. 321 pbordelon@cityof powdersprings.org
Al Thurman, Mayor 770-943-1666, ext. 309 athurman@cityof powdersprings.org
Patricia Wisdom, At-Large, Post 2 770-943-1666, ext. 320 pwisdom@cityof powdersprings.org
Lane Cadwell, Chief of Police 770-943-1616
lcadwell@cityofpowdersprings.org
City of Powder Springs Police Department
1114 Richard D. Sailors Parkway Powder Springs 30127, 770-943-1616
photo by Liz By Design Photography photo by Liz By Design PhotographyIt is known as The Jonquil City and for anyone who goes near Smyrna in the spring, they will understand why. Thousands of the yellow flowers, a species of daffodil, bloom throughout the area each year offering a beautiful backdrop and fragrance to Cobb County’s second largest city. With a population of around 55,700, Smyrna is one of the top 20 largest cities in Georgia and it is the Cobb County city closest to Atlanta, which is about 10 miles away.
The region’s hikers and bicyclists know Smyrna well since it is the start of the popular Silver Comet Trail. The 61.5mile trail begins at the Mavell Road Trailhead in Smyrna and ends at the Georgia-Alabama state line. The Silver Comet pedestrian and bike trail runs through Smyrna and the city runs along the Chattahoochee River at Riverview Landing, which is adjacent to a brewery and recreational activities.
The community was originally known as Ruff’s Siding and later Varner’s Station. As it began to grow up around the nearby Smyrna Camp Ground, the area was later named Smyrna. A little more than 15 square miles in size, Smyrna has a thriving downtown area, which includes several business areas and corridors, green space and government buildings. Downtown Smyrna includes City Hall, the Smyrna Community Center, a pond and arboretum and the city-owned library. Unique in Georgia, the Smyrna Library is independent from the county library system. The 20th Century Veterans Memorial is located downtown, adjacent to the library.
Also situated downtown are The Market Village, The Village Pavilion and King Street, which runs through downtown connecting City Hall to the Smyrna Community Center and the newly reopened and redesigned Village Green Park. The Market Village is home to a number of bars, restaurants, office and shop spaces and service businesses. Ongoing movement in the downtown redesign calls for added park space and a brewery.
The city of Smyrna operates under a form of government with a mayor and council members representing seven wards and elected to four-year terms. The governing body appoints a city administrator to serve as the city’s chief administrative officer. Smyrna has been recognized for its achievements and is a previous recipient of the prestigious Urban Land Institute’s Award of Excellence.
Places of Interest: Truist Park is at the entrance to Smyrna at I-285 via Spring Road, which leads to downtown Smyrna. Brawner Hall and Taylor-Brawner Park, home of the Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays, are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Downtown dining opportunities abound in The Market Village, as well as The Village Pavilion with other places to eat and drink nearby, including Rev. Coffee and the Viking Alchemist Meadery. Residents and visitors also enjoy barbecue, beer and recreation along the Chattahoochee at Riverview Landing.
Annual Events: The Spring Jonquil Festival and the Crafts & Drafts Festival herald in the spring season and welcome the fall in Smyrna. In between, there are summer concerts, weekly Food Truck Tuesdays, weekly Handmade Market,
Taste of Smyrna in September and the now famous Smyrna Birthday Celebration with fireworks and stage performances paired with the Culture & Spirit Festival. During the holidays, the city hosts Coming Home for the Holidays and the downtown annual Christmas Tree Lighting.
A Bit of History: Incorporated in 1872, Smyrna, like all of Cobb County sits on former Cherokee land. It gets its name from the Bible, which is fitting since it began as a religious campground. The first European settlers in the area came sometime around 1832, and built a religious encampment called Smyrna Camp Ground, which became a popular travel destination. It began to grow significantly after 1842, when the Western and Atlantic Railroad was completed.
Famous Residents: The late Smyrna Mayor Lorena Pruitt was the first female mayor elected in the state of Georgia (1946); Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts; retired American football player Hines Ward and Fanny Williams, who was known for her legacy of activism and social justice.
What’s New in Smyrna: The newly reopened and redesigned Village Green Park begins a new era for Smyrna. True to her history of innovation and reinvention, the city’s new green space expands pedestrian access and passive enjoyment of the downtown area. It is the biggest citizen requested change to the downtown since the 1990s. The reimagined green space replaces a fountain and traffic circle. The Community Center and the Smyrna Public Library, also part of the original downtown redesign, remain strong features of downtown Smyrna, but are now
situated and accessible within a space designed for people rather than vehicles. The space now includes larger and more open space with new trees, an interactive water feature, plaza areas, seating, bike racks, shade structures and improved stage placement for concerts and events.
Smyrna City Hall
2800 King Street
Smyrna, GA 30080 770-434-6600
smyrnaga.gov City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month in the council chambers at City Hall.
Travis Lindley, Ward 3 678-631-5308
tlindley@smyrnaga.gov
Charles “Corkey” Welch, Ward 4 678-631-5309
cwelch@smyrnaga.gov
Susan Wilkinson, Ward 5 678-631-5310
swilkinson@smyrnaga.gov
Tim Gould, Mayor Pro Tem, Ward 6 678-631-5311
tgould@smyrnaga.gov
Kathy Young, Ward 7 678-631-5312
kyoung@smyrnaga.gov
Derek Norton, Mayor 678-631-5302
dnorton@smyrnaga.gov
City Council Members:
Glenn Pickens, Ward 1 678-631-5306
gpickens@smyrnaga.gov
Latonia P. Hines, Ward 2 678-631-5307
lphines@smyrnaga.gov
Smyrna Police Department 2646 Atlanta Road Smyrna, GA 30080 770-434-9481
Keith Zgonc, Police Chief 678-631-5100
kzgonc@smyrnaga.gov
Smyrna Fire Department 2620 Atlanta Road Smyrna, GA 30080 770-434-6667
Brian Marcos, Fire Chief 770-434-6667
bmarcos@smyrnaga.gov
We are a well-rounded community alive with community spirit, a touch of urban chic and plenty of down-home natural charm.
Nestled among lush trees, you’ll feel at home in our diverse neighborhoods. Residents and visitors enjoy access to indoor and outdoor amenities, from boating on the Chattahoochee, to biking, walking, or running along our trails, watching baseball at the Battery, or catching good vibes in our downtown.
The Cobb Chamber has reaffirmed their commitment to drive economic growth, foster professional development and advocate for the local community with the launch of their 2023 through 2027 strategic plan.
There were 21 major project wins in the first half of 2023, according to chamber president and CEO, Sharon Mason. The Cobb Chamber also reported 56 active projects throughout Cobb in 2023.
“They’re all at different stages, but we do expect some more of those to come to fruition,” Mason said. She has been CEO and president of the chamber since 2018.
“We’re working with many of our partners across Cobb county to bring those to fruition, that really shows you that the pipeline is continuing to grow,” Mason said. “Part of the reason is that intentional effort to market
Cobb County globally through SelectCobb and working with our many partners to get in front of site selectors.”
SelectCobb is an initiative born from the Cobb Chamber that works to attract new businesses, grow existing Cobb businesses, and develop the local workforce. According to Mason, Cobb has been a magnet for Fortune 500 companies like Papa Johns and Comcast because of a highly skilled and educated workforce.
“We talked to over 500 stakeholders, including business and community leaders, and by far the number one challenge that was mentioned was workforce,” Mason said. “We’re not surprised by that because we know that while it’s our greatest strength, it’s been heightened as an ongoing challenge with many pandemic-related factors.”
There have been some major additions to Cobb’s robust economic landscape. Gas South announced in June
2023 they will be relocating their headquarters to The Battery’s Three Ballpark Center by the end of 2024.
At the time of that announcement, construction of Truist Financials’ new 250,000-square-foot office building at the Battery was underway. Truist Financials’ headquarters will be completed sometime in fall 2024.
In 2022, Biolyte, a rehydration drink manufacturer, announced the construction of a warehouse in Marietta that is slated to be completed by the end of 2023. In June of 2023, Vanderlande Industries, a Dutch logistics manufacturing company, announced plans to create 500 new jobs and spend $59 million to expand its North American headquarters near the Town Center.
The state of Georgia’s economy, institutions of higher education, and a strong school system are top reasons companies like ThyssenKrupp Elevator and Truist Financial have chosen to relocate to Cobb. “We’re weathering really well, because of this proactive focus,” Mason said. “And, we want to keep it that way.”
The Cobb Chamber has been working since 2019 to secure funding for the Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center. The partnership with Chattahoochee Technical College is one of several ways that the chamber is working to ensure a strong local workforce.
Federal funding from the American Rescue Plan has allowed SelectCobb to implement grants for childcare facilities.
“As we diversify the economy even more and bring more headquarters and industries here, that helps us weather recessions even better in the future,” Mason said.
Gregory Teague, CEO of Croy Engineering, succeeded Britt Fleck of Georgia Power as the 2023 Chairman of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce
The role of chair of the board of directors is a volunteer role. “I’ve been involved with the Chamber pretty heavily since 2008,” Teague said. “The Chamber has helped me grow our business and connections in the community, so this was a way for our company, and me personally, to give back.”
Teague has been with the Cobb Chamber since 2008, serving Cobb businesses in a variety of capacities.
Cobb Chamber CEO and President Sharon Mason claimed Teague is the only person she is aware of that has chaired every leadership program.
They include Leadership Cobb, Honorary Commanders and Cobb Youth Leadership.
The Honorary Commanders Program annually selects leaders in Cobb and pairs them with military commanders in a yearlong program.
“Going through the Honorary Commanders Program is really what ignited my passion and helped me realize how important having Dobbins in Cobb County is from an economic standpoint,” Teague said.
“With his extensive involvement with our chamber, he is helping us expand focus in a lot of areas,” said Sharon Mason, president and CEO of the Cobb Chamber. “One of them being fostering and cultivating really impactful leaders in our community.”
While SelectCobb is focused on
attracting new businesses to Cobb, Teague believes growing local small businesses and large companies internally is an important aspect of the work the Cobb Chamber does.
The situation when Teague joined the chamber in 2008 has inverted in post-pandemic Cobb. There is no longer a shortage of jobs for Cobb residents, instead the national labor shortage crisis has left many companies across the country scrambling to hire.
“I credit SelectCobb with really helping us bring the Braves to Cobb County,” Teague said. The “halo effect” that Teague described involves the momentum generated by massive economic development projects on everything in Cobb, from new infrastructure to high-paying jobs.
Now that so many companies have
relocated to Cobb, Teague’s focus has shifted to developing the talented young workforce in the county. If the No. 1 thing a company considers when moving to Cobb is the workforce, then, Teague said, the Cobb Chamber’s role is to fill those companies’ needs by investing in Cobb’s schools and universities.
The relationship between Lockheed and Dobbins is similar to the Braves playing at the Battery and Croy engineering working on CID improvements, Teague said, in that they are symbiotic relationships. Both partners in these various economic development projects see a return on their investments.
“It created something we did not have in Cobb down there (at the Battery in Cumberland), which has really made Cobb more attractive as a place to live, a place to work, and a place to do business,” Teague said.
Teague has narrowed down two prevailing themes in the Cobb Chamber’s work during his tenure as chairman. First, he mentioned transportation. The Board of Commissioners will be considering another 1% sales tax in fall 2023 to fund future transportation and infrastructure projects. The chamber will work with businesses to ensure needs are met and concerns are heard.
The second theme for Teague’s 2023 term is continuously improving the local workforce in Cobb, echoing Mason’s message.
Note: From the Cobb County School District – New full-time employee totals come out in October 2023.
It is common for people familiar with Cobb County to associate Marietta with Lockheed Martin.
Thomas Scott, professor emeritus with the history and philosophy department at KSU, wrote, “The arrival of the Bell Aircraft Corporation to the state in 1942 began a long tradition of aviation activity in Georgia, which continues today with the Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems Company in Marietta.”
“While we are still in 2023, we also have an eye on 2024, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the C-130 Hercules’ first flight,” said Will Bradley, external communications lead for Lockheed’s Marietta site.
Local historian Thomas Scott has linked the C-130 Hercules, a mediumweight transport plane developed in the 1950s, with ensuring the continued presence of Lockheed Martin in Marietta.
Lockheed Martin’s Marietta site employs more than 5,200 highly-skilled workers in fields such as advanced manufacturing, engineering, artificial intelligence, data analytics, IT, finance, operations and more, according to Bradley.
Lockheed Martin says they’ve had a strong year so far with Marietta-based programs.
In June 2023, Rod McLean, vice president of Air Mobility & Maritime Missions and Marietta site general manager, attended the International Paris Air Show. “It was clear that many of our
customers across the globe are increasing their focus to improve aircraft readiness and availability,” McLean said.
In February 2023, Lockheed Martin delivered the first of five C-130J-30 Super Hercules to the Indonesian Air Force. Indonesia’s second “Super Herc” arrived in June. The Indonesian Air Force is a longtime C-130 operator and is modernizing its Hercules fleet with Super Hercs, according to Lockheed spokesperson, Will Bradley.
In July 2023, the Royal Australian Air Force announced it is making a 10 billion dollar investment in 20 Super Hercs. Lockheed said they expect delivery of the first aircraft to be in late 2027.
Lockheed Martin’s additional international customers for C-130 airlifters include New Zealand, Germany and France.
• Opened: January 1951
• General Manager: Rod McLean
• Employees: 5,200
• Aircrafts produced: C-130J Super Hercules, C-130 Hercules, F-35 Lightning II, B-29 Superfortress, B-47 Stratojet, LASA-60 Santa Maria, F-22 Raptor, Jetstar, XV-Hummingbird, C-141 Starlifter, C-5A Galaxy, C-5M Super Galaxy, P-3 Orion
• Plant size: 8 million square feet
• On-site partners: Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia Tech Research Institute, Clay National Guard Center
“Lockheed Martin is a cornerstone of the Cobb County, Metro Atlanta and Georgia economies, and we’re proud of our 70+ year history of aerospace innovation here,” McLean said. “As we look toward the future, we’re investing in Georgia’s high-tech, highly skilled workforce to ensure we continue delivering with excellence for our customers around the globe.”
McLean has said in previous years that he is intent on expending the necessary capital to compete for contracts. One of those competitions is now well underway.
Lockheed is vying against aerospace giant, Boeing, for a contract to make an aerial fuel tanker for the U.S. Air Force. In July 2023, Lockheed announced they have partnered with General Electric to build the engines of the planes,
known as LMXTs; however, the Pentagon has not made a decision on the contract yet. If Lockheed Martin bests Boeing, the aerial fuel tanker will be constructed in Mobile, AL and Marietta.
Lockheed used the selection of the GE engines to further push its pitch, saying in a statement that the engine “is already in use on multiple U.S. Air Force platforms,” making the LMXT a plane which “aligns with a common supply chain and existing knowledge base that can translate to increased mission readiness rates.”
Governor Kemp has previously said he believes that winning the contract will add around 1,000 jobs at the Marietta site. Politicians representing the state of Georgia and Alabama have lobbied the Pentagon to award the contract to Lockheed Martin.
Far
Although economic uncertainty following the COVID-19 pandemic has clouded Georgia’s leading businesses, Lockheed’s Marietta plant contributed significantly to the export of aerospace products in 2022. Lockheed Martin is proud to help make aerospace products the state of Georgia’s number one export, according to the Marietta site’s communications department.
Continuing to look for new ways to build and deliver critical products, Lockheed Martin Aeronautical sites have seen an uptick in programs they are able to offer. The advanced development programs, F-22 Raptor program, and the rotary and missions systems business has seen significant growth. For Lockheed’s Marietta plant, this means they are kept busy with new business opportunities.
Acworth Business Association
P.O. Box 448 Acworth, GA 30101 770-423-1330
support@acworthbusiness.com acworthbusiness.org
Austell Business Association
P.O. Box 371 Austell, GA 30168 marketing@austellba.org austellba.org
East Cobb Business Association
P.O. Box 70814 Marietta, GA 30007 678-956-5086
Communications@EastCobbBA.com eastcobbba.com
Kennesaw Business Association
P.O. Box 777 Kennesaw, GA 30156
770-423-1330
leighkanour@jrmmanagement.com kennesawbusiness.org
Marietta Business Association
P.O. Box 2152 Marietta, GA 30061
770-423-1330
admin@mariettabusiness.org mariettabusiness.org
Metro Atlanta Business Assoc. 4355 Cobb Pkwy, Suite J254 Atlanta, GA 30339 678-725-0099
MetroAtlantaBusiness@gmail.com maba.clubexpress.com
Northeast Cobb Business Assoc. 570 Piedmont Rd. Marietta, GA 30066 info@northeastcobbba.com northeastcobbba.com
Powder Springs Business Group P.O. Box 1426 Powder Springs, GA 30127 770-380-5357 hello@psbusinessgroup.com psbusinessgroup.com
Smyrna Business Association
P.O. Box 186 Smyrna, GA 30081 president@smyrnabusiness.org smyrnabusiness.org
South Cobb Business Association
P.O. Box 1383 Mableton, GA 30126
678-224-7300
dcrouse@southcobbba.org southcobbba.org
Vinings Business Association 2690 Cobb Parkway SE, Suite A5-326 Smyrna, GA 30080 678-725-0099
chris@viningsbusiness.com vba.clubexpress.com
West Cobb Business Association 2500 Dallas Hwy. Suite 400 Marietta, GA 30064
678-570-0550
membership@westcobbbusiness.com westcobbbusiness.com
What is Fair Housing?
Fair housing can be defined as a condition in which individuals of similar income levels in the same housing market have a like range of housing choice available to them regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, age, gender, marital status, familial status, souce of income, sexual orientation or disability.
Further Fair Housing?
The Fair Housing Act has two goals: to end housing discrimination and to promote diverse, inclusive communities.
What is Housing Discrimination?
Housing discrimination is unjust or prejudicial treatment of individuals, in the area of housing and real estate, based on the individual’s protected class.
What Guarantees My Right to Fair Housing?
The right to fair housing is assured by the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 which makes it unlawful to discriminate in renting, selling, financing, and insuring housing.
What Should I Do If I Have a Complaint?
You can file a complaint with FHEO online at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/online-complaint or by calling 1(800) 440-8091 or (TTY) (404)730-2654 Would YOU like to be a Vendor? Contact Us Today!
Cobb is home to three of the 29 community improvement districts in Georgia.
A CID is a public-private partnership that gives local governments the power to self-tax industrial and commercial property owners within their districts and utilize those funds for public improvement projects.
In 1984, the Georgia Legislature changed the economic forecast of the state forever by amending the state constitution. The creation of a special purpose tax district in Cobb was made possible by the enactment of a resolution by the Cobb County Commission and the consent of the commercial property owners in the area.
The state’s first CID, then called the Cobb County Community Improvement District, was officially established May 1, 1988.
Nearly a decade later, it changed its name to the Cumberland CID following the formation of the Town Center CID in the mid-1990s.
Cobb’s newest CID is the Gateway Marietta CID, which was established in 2014.
The Cumberland CID includes 190 commercial property owners, entertainment venues and several major companies. The nearly 7-square-mile area is 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta surrounding the intersection of I-75 and I-285.
Cumberland’s 35-year evolution includes six class A office towers, 84,000 jobs, 30,000 residents, and the Atlanta Braves’ $1.3 billion stadium at The Battery Atlanta.
In 2022, the CID launched a nonprofit
community organization, One Cumberland, to maintain a thriving community. Cumberland already has a $23.6 billion dollar impact on Georgia’s economy, according to the CID.
“Since 1988, the Cumberland CID has invested over $160 million into key infrastructure projects and enhancements that have led to the success of the region,” said Kim Menefee , executive director for the Cumberland CID. “One Cumberland will build upon this success by being the engine that continues to boost quality of life and elevate all the assets that make Cumberland unique.”
Cumberland’s success story as the state’s first CID cannot be told without mentioning the key projects that are recently completed or under construction.
An extension of the Bob Callan Trail at Interstate North Parkway began construction in summer 2023. This portion of the trail will connect to Cobb County’s Terrell Mill — Windy Hill Connector at Bentley Road adding an additional mile of trail.
A $100,000 grant was awarded to the Cumberland CID by the Atlanta Regional Commission in May 2023 for the improvement of pedestrian safety and local art. Once the plan has been submitted, the Cumberland CID will be eligible to apply for federal transportation funding projects, such as corridor improvements and biking infrastructure.
The Cumberland CID broke ground on the Akers Mill Ramp in 2021. The $44 million express lane received funding from local, state and federal governments, as well as the Cumberland CID and the Atlanta Regional commission. It is estimated the ramp will be completed in 2025.
Another major project in development is the Cumberland Sweep — a 3-mile multimodal path around the heart of the CID with pedestrian bridges and an autonomous shuttle system.
The preliminary development of the third segment of the Sweep was completed in 2023, with construction expected to start next year. The third segment, a stretch of the path along Galleria Drive from Akers Mill to the I-285 pedestrian bridge, is expected to be completed in 2027.
Finally, $11.8 million will go toward enhancing the character of the Cumberland CID’s 840 acres of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Construction is estimated to begin in 2024, with
CUMBERLAND
• Founded: 1988
• Size: 6.5 square miles
• Big projects: Akers Mill Ramp, Paces Mill rehabilitation, Cumberland Core Loop TOWN CENTER
• Founded: 1997
• Size: 6.5 square miles
• Big projects: South Barrett Reliever, Noonday Creek Trail
GATEWAY MARIETTA
• Founded: 2014
• Size: 1.2 square miles
• Big projects: Creative placemaking and signage study
2026 as the slated completion year.
The Town Center CID, created in 1997, is located north of the city of Marietta and just southeast of the city of Kennesaw. The Cobb County International Airport, Kennesaw State University, and Town Center Mall are the most notable landmarks near the improvement district.
Town Center Community is composed of the Town Center CID and its nonprofit partner, Town Center Community Alliance, including 1500 businesses with over 35,000 jobs and 13,000 residents.
As of 2023, the Town Center CID has invested $62.3 million and leveraged over $210 million in funds to complete 82 total projects. There are 18 priority projects slated for 2023, including amenities along the Noonday Creek Trail, lighting along major corridors, and road realignment projects.
The third phase of the South Barrett Reliever is expected to be completed in fall 2024. The $35.4 million project will complete an alternate route of travel across I-75 to reduce traffic by 22% in a busy corridor, according to the Town Center CID.
The project is jointly funded by the Town
Center CID, Atlanta Regional Commission, the Georgia Department of Transportation, the Cobb Department of Transportation and the State Road and Tollway Authority.
In June 2023, four educational and historical upgrades were completed at Aviation Park with the help of Kennesaw State University and Georgia Department of Education.
Created in 2014, Gateway Marietta is approximately 1.2 square miles and consists of 73 commercial properties. It is located right off I-75 at the Delk Road and South Marietta Parkway interchanges.
By issuing bonds and recuperating the area in the mid-2000s, Gateway Marietta has attracted local MLS club Atlanta United. The Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, the club’s $60 million investment off Franklin Gateway, opened in 2017.
The area includes property owners south of Delk Road as well as additional property along Franklin Gateway.
The city of Marietta is connecting the Rottenwood Creek Trail, completing streetscaping on Franklin Gateway. evaluating enhancement ideas for the Blanche Drive Underpass, and exploring opportunities for signage placement in the CID.
The projected tax revenue has steadily increased year over year, with 2024’s projection at over $450,000.
To meet the goals of revitalization and redevelopment, Gateway Marietta CID has made landscaping at I-75 interchanges a priority. The CID has continued maintenance of the interchanges and corridors leading to Franklin’s Gateway.
Other projects in the area include infrastructure such as lane widening, sidewalk improvements, and water and sewer upgrades.
This year marks the 54th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. This landmark legislation was signed into law on April 11, 1968, by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and family status.
This year marks the 54th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. This landmark legislation was signed into law on April 11, 1968, by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and family status.
Although affordable housing is an important policy goal for local jurisdictions, the terms “fair housing or affirmatively furthering fair housing” are not necessarily synonymous in describing affordable housing. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), affordability is defined as housing that can be obtained for 30 percent or less of a household’s income. However, the affordability rate can vary dramatically from city to city.
Although affordable housing is an important policy goal for local jurisdictions, the terms “fair housing or affirmatively furthering fair housing” are not necessarily synonymous in describing affordable housing. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), affordability is defined as housing that can be obtained for 30 percent or less of a household’s income. However, the affordability rate can vary dramatically from city to city.
The Civil Rights Act of 1968 prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. The Act also protects people from discrimination when they are renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, known as the Fair Housing Act, requires HUD and recipients of federal funds from HUD to affirmatively further the policies and purposes of the Fair Housing Act, also known as “affirmatively urthering fair housing” or “AFFH.” The obligation to affirmatively further fair housing requires recipients of HUD funds to take meaningful actions, in addition to combating discrimination, to overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity based on the protected classes. The AFFH provision was part of the Fair Housing Act when it was passed by Congress in 1968. Through that provision, Congress directed HUD to make sure that neither the agency itself, nor the ties, counties, states and public housing agencies it funds, discriminate in their programs.
Pursuant to its authority under the Fair Housing Act, HUD has long directed program participants, such as Cobb County, to undertake an assessment of fair housing issues known as the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). Further, HUD has always required recipients of federal financial assistance, such as States, local governments, insular areas, and Public Housing Authorities (PHA) to engage in fair housing planning which is a required document in conjunction with the Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and PHA plan. HUD also requires Local governments, PHAs, States, and Insular Areas to be involved in fair housing planning to ensure they meet the obligation to\ affirmatively further the Fair Housing Act.
Cobb County has consistently exceeded HUD’s compliance standards in assessing fair housing and housing needs to develop strategies to increase affordable housing. HUD grant funds have contributed to improvements in the physical, social, and economic conditions of the County’s lowincome residents. These funds have been used to promote affordable housing, maintaining a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. Since 1982, HUD has allocated over $197 million dollars to Cobb County to invest in the local community through partnerships with local nonprofits, housing providers, and municipalities.
• Your name and address;
The Civil Rights Act of 1968 prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. The Act also protects people from discrimination when they are renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, known as the Fair Housing Act, requires HUD and recipients of federal funds from HUD to affirmatively further the policies and purposes of the Fair Housing Act, also known as “affirmatively furthering fair housing” or “AFFH.” The obligation to affirmatively further fair housing requires recipients of HUD funds to take meaningful actions, in addition to combating discrimination, to overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity based on the protected classes. The AFFH provision was part of the Fair Housing Act when it was passed by Congress in 1968. Through that provision, Congress directed HUD to make sure that neither the agency itself, nor the ties, counties, states and public housing agencies it funds, discriminate in their programs.
• Name and address of the person(s) or organization
• your complaint is against;
• Date(s) of the alleged violation
Pursuant to its authority under the Fair Housing Act, HUD has long directed program participants, such as Cobb County, to undertake an assessment of fair housing issues known as the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). Further, HUD has always required recipients of federal financial assistance, such as States, local governments, insular areas, and Public Housing Authorities (PHA) to engage in fair housing planning which is a required document in conjunction with the Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and PHA plan. HUD also requires Local governments, PHAs, States, and Insular Areas to be involved in fair housing planning to ensure they meet the obligation to affirmatively further the Fair Housing Act.
If you believe that you have experienced housing discrimination, you can contact HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at (800) 669-9777 or visit file a complaint online. Provide as much information as possible, including:
• Address or other identification of the housing or program involved; • Short description of the event(s) in question;
Your name and address; Name and address of the person(s) or organization your complaint is against; Address or other identification of the housing or program involved; Short description of the event(s) in question; Date(s) of the alleged violation
Cobb County has consistently exceeded HUD’s compliance standards in assessing fair housing and housing needs to develop strategies to increase affordable housing. HUD grant funds have contributed to improvements in the physical, social, and economic conditions of the County’s lowincome residents. These funds have been used to promote affordable housing, maintaining a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. Since 1982, HUD has allocated over $197 million dollars to Cobb County to invest in the local community through partnerships with local nonprofits, housing providers, and municipalities.
COBB COUNTY CDBG PROGRAM OFFICEThere’s good debate on what has been more successful over the past few years, Truist Park at The Battery Atlanta or the Atlanta Braves baseball club itself.
The Atlanta Braves have won the National League East division each of the last five years. After bringing the World Series trophy back to Atlanta in 2021, the club has positioned itself for another deep playoff run in 2023.
On the other hand, Truist Park and the Braves led all of Major League Baseball in attendance in 2022, with 94% of available inventory sold at games last year.
The Battery Atlanta has transformed the Cumberland area into a thriving boomtown, according to a report from global real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield.
For example, the increase in taxable property values at the location has skyrocketed from $5 million in 2014 to over $730 million in 2022.
Analysts at Cushman & Wakefield found the Cumberland CID, a 6.5-square-mile area where Interstates 75, 285 and Cobb Parkway overlap, is welcoming a younger, more diverse population compared to previous years.
Cumberland’s population has climbed 50% since 2000 — nearly twice the rate of Cobb County — and 40% of roughly 30,000 residents who live in Cumberland are millennials, per the report.
The area’s population is expected to climb to nearly 40,000 people in subsequent years as new developments attract residents.
The snowball effect at The Battery Atlanta can be seen
in the over one-and-a-half-million-square-foot increase in office leasing activity in 2022. Three Fortune 500 companies — Papa Johns, TK Elevators and Comcast — are headquartered in Cumberland. With construction now underway, Truist Securities plans to open its new office in 2024 after a move from Buckhead.
Cumberland’s booming economy shows no signs of stagnating — private investment in The Battery has already surpassed $1 billion and another $700 million is projected in the area over the next two years, according to the report.
Over $38 million in tax revenue was collected from Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta in 2022. According to Jennifer Giglio, the senior vice president of communications, the Braves have partnerships with several local non-profits with the intention to meet community needs surrounding food security, housing and youth development. Since 2015, the Braves and The Battery have paid over $25 million to the Cobb County Board of Education.
Although baseball season draws the largest crowds, The Battery Atlanta has something for everyone, whether it’s boutique shopping, live events at the Coco-Cola Roxy or restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines.
Whatever brings visitors to The Battery Atlanta, they can be assured their phones will still work: Comcast’s fiber network ensures the highest-capacity network of an mixed-use development in the country.
The approximately 10 million visitors and fans of The Battery Atlanta, Truist Park and the Atlanta Braves every year are not only getting a nationally celebrated experience, but they’re also supporting their local communities.
Construction is well underway on the new Truist office tower and parking deck at The Battery Atlanta.
Hunter Riggall
The Battery Atlanta at a Glance
• Office space: 1.25 million square feet
• Residential units: 4,000
• Hotel rooms: 1,250
• Retail space: 575,000 square feet
The Atlanta Braves haves proven to be one of the toughest teams to beat in Major League Baseball for many years, with the 2022 Braves marking the sixth time since 1990 that a team has played an entire regular season without being swept.
With this in mind, the Braves entered the 2023 season off five straight division titles and the World Series favorite with a young roster, which is expected to remain intact for years to come.
Atlanta will control the bulk of it for at least the next six to nine years. It includes contracts for Michael Harris II (2032), Matt Olson (2030), Ozzie Albies (2027), Ronald Acuna Jr. (2028), Sean Murphy (2029), Spencer Strider (2029) and Austin Riley (2032).
Manager Brian Snitker and general manager Alex Anthopoulos have built a deep, talented roster that will likely keep the Braves in contention going forward.
Coming off a 2021 World Series championship, the Braves appeared to go through a championship hangover in 2022.
The Braves had battled during the offseason to keep 2020 NL MVP Freddie Freeman, but the first baseman ultimately chose to go to the Los Angeles Dodgers after 12 years with the Braves organization.
Anthopoulos quickly turned around and signed Olson, Oakland’s All-Star first baseman, to replace Freeman.
The season started rocky, as the Braves sat at 24-27 and 10½ games back of the division-leading New York Mets on June 1. It was early, but the outlook for the remainder of the year was bleak.
One day earlier, Sal Licata, a New York Mets reporter for SportsNet New York, infamously claimed, “The NL East is over… and I don’t even think the Braves are going to challenge them,” live on his show.
Licata’s quote received little backlash at the time due to the Braves position in the standings, but two weeks later, Licata was trending across Braves fans’ social media — and for good reason.
Following Licata’s statement, the Braves won 14-straight games between June 1 and June 15 and closed the NL East gap to only four games.
The Braves were right back in the race for their fifthstraight NL East title, and much of the credit can be given to the work of Anthopoulos and Snitker.
Olson settled in with Atlanta, and the call-up of Harris gave the Braves the surge they needed.
Harris, who made his Braves debut on May 28, 2022, slashed .347/.365/.574 in the month of June and paired this with elite defensive abilities in center field.
Ultimately, the NL East came down to the final week of the regular season — Braves vs. Mets, with New York leading the division by one game.
The Mets traveled to Truist Park with the opportunity to capture the division for the first time since 2015. However, the Braves had other plans, sweeping the Mets in a playoff-like atmosphere and changing the magic number for Atlanta to one.
The Braves captured their fifth straight NL East title a few days later with a win over the Miami Marlins.
The 2022 season came to end with an NLDS loss to the World Series-bound Philadelphia Phillies, but optimism for the future of the Braves has not been this high since the 1990s.
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Cobb County is filled with high-level sports talent, including athletes who yield million-dollar contracts, a World Series championship, the most rushing yards in an NFL regular-season game by a quarterback, along with successful Olympic performances, among others.
Looking at the NBA players from the county, Jaylen Brown leads the list. The Wheeler High School alum made history by agreeing to a $304 million, five-year contract extension with the Boston Celtics, which is the largest in league history. The superstar guard was the third overall pick in the 2016 draft and was instrumental in the Celtics’ NBA Finals appearance in 2022.
Championships can’t be spoken about without speaking about Cobb’s Dansby Swanson. Swanson was an important piece of the 2021 Atlanta Braves, who brought a title back to Cobb County and the state of Georgia. The former Marietta High School standout was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 draft and a College World Series champion with Vanderbilt the year prior.
Cobb is full of first-round talent, and few NFL quarterbacks have as high of a ceiling as former Harrison High School star Justin Fields.
The record-breaking dual-threat quarterback was selected by the Chicago Bears 11th overall in the 2021 draft, and last year, had one of the best rushing seasons for a quarterback.
Fields ran for 1,143 yards — secondmost for a QB in NFL history — and ran for 178 yards against the Miami Dolphins, which broke the record previously held by Michael Vick for rushing yards for a QB in a single regularseason game.
Former Kell High School track and field star Kendall Williams is a generational talent. She still holds the title as the only athlete to win an NCAA championship in the same event four years in a row (indoor pentathlon) and still holds the national record in the outdoor heptathlon (4,703 points).
Williams was part of the 2016 and 2020 U.S. Olympic teams and is training to be part of the 2024 team as well. During her time at Kell, she was named the national Gatorade High School
Track and Field Athlete of the Year.
While current stars are littered throughout the NBA, Cobb County boasts four players in the NBA, including Brown, Collin Sexton (Utah) and Isaac Okoro (Cleveland). Scoot Henderson (Portland) was the No. 3 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, and there are two others who could join the group in Sharife Cooper (G-League) and Jared Harper (playing overseas).
The county has 19 NFL players, including a pair of 2023 NFL draft picks in Hillgrove’s Myles Murphy (28th overall) and Marietta’s BJ Ojulari (41st overall).
There are numerous players in Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer players, as well as a golfer on the Korn Ferry Tour.
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, a former Wheeler High School standout, signed the largest contract in NBA history over the summer.
Former Marietta High School star Dansby Swanson helped the Atlanta Braves win a World Series and now is playing shortstop for the Chicago Cubs.
Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune/
After a 2022 season in which all of its teams played in the same conference for the first time, Kennesaw State’s athletic program will turn the page and prepare for an impending jump to the Conference USA.
Kennesaw State president Kathy Schwaig highlighted the university’s desire to continue to elevate its athletic programs and academics after the move to Conference USA was finalized last November.
“It is an exciting time for Kennesaw State, and this is an opportunity to continue the upward trajectory of the athletic programs and academic mission at KSU,” Schwaig said in a release. “This step was not one taken lightly, but with thoughtful review and analysis of the benefits to elevated competition for our student-athletes, the expanded opportunities for research and academic engagement, and the advancement of a unique and exciting student experience at KSU.”
All of Kennesaw State’s athletic programs will play the 2023-24 academic year in the ASUN Conference — apart from the Owls’ football team, which will be undergoing the biggest change as a result of the move.
Following its third Big South Conference championship in 2021, the football team finished 2022 with a 5-6 record in its only year with an ASUN schedule. With the transition to the Football Championship Subdivision, the Owls will be ineligible for an ASUN championship and Football Championship Subdivision postseason opportunity in 2023 and will instead play an independent schedule.
However, there is a lot to be excited about regarding Kennesaw State’s football future, with the school expected to accommodate FBS rules by almost doubling its stadium capacity by 2024 to over 15,000 seats. In addition, the school is attempting to raise money for a football operations building as well.
Perhaps the school’s most successful team over the last calendar year was the men’s basketball team, which won
its first ASUN championship in 2023 and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament under then-head coach and former Wheeler standout Amir Abdur-Rahim.
In their first-round NCAA Tournament matchup, the Owls nearly pulled off a memorable upset against thirdseeded Xavier, but fell 72-67. Abdur-Rahim departed for the head coaching job at South Florida, but guard Terrell Burden, a Campbell High School alum, is back for his final season to try and lead Kennesaw State to a second consecutive ASUN championship, this time under new coach Antoine Pettway, a former Alabama point guard and assistant coach.
After a third ASUN championship in 2022, Kennesaw State’s baseball team suffered a down year in 2023 by its recent standards. Finishing with a 14-16 record in conference play and missing out on the postseason, the Owls will attempt to secure an ASUN tournament berth in 2024.
The men’s and women’s track and field team are both coming off second place in the ASUN indoor and outdoor track and field championships.
Kennesaw State’s volleyball team finished with an 18-10 record and a semifinal berth in the ASUN tournament last season, while the women’s basketball team went 10-8 and also reached the ASUN tournament semifinals. Both will be seeking to make a postseason run in 2023-24.
In addition, Kennesaw State will field men’s and women’s teams in cross country, golf and tennis, while also maintaining women’s programs in lacrosse, soccer and softball.
Marietta’s Life University, which fields 21 programs, joins Kennesaw State sponsoring intercollegiate sports in Cobb County. Life’s rugby team is the most notable program, with its rugby sevens team defeating Lindenwood in the CRAA national championship in March to give the program its second straight national title.
Note: In October 2022, the Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 to invoke the Georgia constitution’s home rule powers and change its electoral map, ignoring a map passed by the state legislature and signed into law by the governor earlier that year. The constitutionality of the home rule resolution is disputed, and is being litigated in court. As of publishing time the county was operating under the “home rule” map, displayed here.
Chairwoman
lisa.cupid@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3305
Cobb County is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners consisting of a chair and four district commissioners. The district commissioners are elected by and represent one of four areas of the county; the chair is elected county-wide.
The chair’s position is full time, and the district commissioners work part time.
All positions have four-year terms. The incumbent candidates, for districts 1 and 3, were reelected in November 2022. The election for Commission Chair, as well as the election for the commissioners in districts 2 and 4, will be held November 5, 2024.
The county government is headquartered at 100 Cherokee Street in Marietta. The Board of Commissioners typically meets at 9 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month and at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Commissioners’ zoning hearings are typically held the third Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m.
KELI GAMBRILL
District 1 - West Cobb keli.gambrill@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3313
District 2 - East Cobb jerica.richardson@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3316
District 3 - North Cobb joann.birrell@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3317
District 4 - South Cobb monique.sheffield@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3312
On December 30, 2021, Gov. Brian Kemp signed Georgia’s new congressional map into law, following the 2020 Census results. Cobb County now contains parts of four U.S. congressional districts. The winners of the November 2022 election took office in January 2023. The two-year term ends on December 31, 2024.
R-Suwanee
U.S. Representative
Georgia’s 6th District
mccormick.house.govSuwan
770-232-3005 (Local office)
202-225-4272 (D.C. office)
BARRY
LOUDERMILK
R-Cassville
U.S. Representative
Georgia’s 11th District
loudermilk.house.gov
770-429-1776 (Local office)
202-225-2931 (D.C. office)
DAVID SCOTT
D-Atlanta
U.S. Representative
Georgia’s 13th District
davidscott.house.gov
770-210-5073 (Local office)
202-225-2939 (D.C. office)
RAPHAEL
WARNOCK
United States Senator ossoff.senate.gov/contact
470-786-7800 (Local office)
202-224-3521 (D.C. office)
United States Senator warnock.senate.gov
770-661-0999 (Local office)
202-224-3643 (D.C. office)
MARJORIE
R-Rome
U.S. Representative
Georgia’s 14th District
greene.house.gov
706-226-5320 (Local office)
202-225-5211 (D.C. office)
Cobb is represented by 14 lawmakers in the Georgia House of Representatives — eight Democrats and six Republicans. The two-year terms for these legislators expire at the end of 2024.
TERI
Representative, D-Smyrna House District 42 teri.anulewicz@house.ga.gov
404-656-0116
Representative, D-Kennesaw House District 35 lisa.campbell@house.ga.gov
404-656-0202
JORDAN RIDLEY
Representative, R-Woodstock House District 22 jordan.ridley@house.ga.gov
404-656-0254
Representative, R-west Cobb House District 36 ginny.ehrhart@house.ga.gov 404-656-5024
Representative, R-Marietta House District 34 devan.seabaugh@house.ga.gov 404-656-0152
SOLOMON
Representative, D-Marietta House District 37 maryfrances.williams@house.ga.gov 404-656-0287
Representative, D-Powder Springs House District 38 david.wilkerson@house.ga.gov 404-656-0314
Representative, D-Mableton House District 39 terry.cummings@house.ga.gov
404-656-0202
Representative, D-Smyrna House District 40 doug.stoner@house.ga.gov
404-656-0220
404-656-9227
Representative, D-east Cobb House District 43 solomon.adesanya@house.ga.gov
404-656-0220
404-656-5143
404-656-5069
404-656-7855
Cobb is represented by six lawmakers in the Georgia Senate — three Republicans and three Democrats. The two-year terms for these legislators expire at the end of 2024.
Note: New boundaries for Cobb’s legislative districts took effect Jan. 1, 2023.
Senator, D-Atlanta
Senate District 6
jason.esteves@senate.ga.gov
404-463-1562
Senator, R-east Cobb Senate District 32 kay.kirkpatrick@senate.ga.gov
404-656-3932
404-656-0054
Senator, R-Acworth
Senate District 37 ed.setzler@senate.ga.gov
770-420-0520
Senator, D-Atlanta Senate District 38 horacena.tate@senate.ga.gov
404-463-8053
Senator, R-Roswell Senate District 56 horacena.tate@senate.ga.gov
404-463-8055
70 Haynes St., Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-1800 • 770-528-1808 (Fax)
The Superior Court of Cobb County has 11 elected judges who preside over jury trials, rule on evidence, hear motions, and render verdicts in bench trials. Each Superior Court judge is elected to a four-year term.
The court also has eight senior judges, who are retired judges who have reached their retirement and pension age and are granted senior status by the governor. They can sit as acting superior court judges.
Judge Gregory Poole became chief judge at the beginning of 2023. This year, Judge Sonya Brown replaced Senior Judge Robert Flournoy on the Superior Court.
SENIOR JUDGES
FLYNN BROADY
70 Haynes St., Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-3080 • 770-528-3030 (Fax) cobbdistrictattorney@cobbcounty.org
Flynn D. Broady Jr., an Army combat veteran and prosecutor, became District Attorney of the Cobb Judicial Circuit on Jan. 1, 2021. Broady’s four-year term will expire at the end of 2024.
CONNIE TAYLOR
70 Haynes St., Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-1300
Clerk of Court is an elected position serving the Superior court in Cobb County. The Clerk and Deputy Clerks are custodians over the property records of the county as well as the civil and criminal files and records in the courts served.
When a screening mammogram result is flagged for follow-up care, it can be scary and intimidating for patients and their loved ones—but at Wellstar, you won’t have to navigate your health journey alone.
When a screening mammogram result is flagged for follow-up care, it can be scary and intimidating for patients and their loved ones—but at Wellstar, you won’t have to navigate your health journey alone.
The Wellstar Comprehensive Breast Health Program will ensure you’re surrounded in care with complimentary concierge services and a team of compassionate experts dedicated to guiding you every step of the way.
The Wellstar Comprehensive Breast Health Program will ensure you’re surrounded in care with complimentary concierge services and a team of compassionate experts dedicated to guiding you every step of the way.
Our dedicated team of schedulers, nurse navigators and breast care specialists will stay by your side through the entire diagnostic process, offering personalized counsel at every step—and it’s complimentary for Wellstar patients who receive abnormal screening mammogram results.
Our dedicated team of schedulers, nurse navigators and breast care specialists will stay by your side through the entire diagnostic process, offering personalized counsel at every step—and it’s complimentary for Wellstar patients who receive abnormal screening mammogram results.
As you search for answers about your breast health, our Comprehensive Breast Health Program and its concierge services will make your experience more seamless with a tailored care plan, advocacy for your physical and emotional well-being, dedicated team members for scheduling appointments and education about your care options.
As you search for answers about your breast health, our Comprehensive Breast Health Program and its concierge services will make your experience more seamless with a tailored care plan, advocacy for your physical and emotional well-being, dedicated team members for scheduling appointments and education about your care options.
For more information on our Comprehensive Breast Health Program, call (470) 610-1910 or email breasthealth@wellstar.org. Learn more about our personalized breast care at wellstar.org/breasthealth.
For more information on our Comprehensive Breast Health Program, call (470) 610-1910 or email breasthealth@wellstar.org. Learn more about our personalized breast care at wellstar.org/breasthealth.
CRAIG OWENS
185 Roswell Street, Marietta, GA 30060 770-499-4600
The sheriff is elected to office by the voters of Cobb County and is statutorily responsible for the management of the sheriff’s office. His four-year term expires at the end of 2024.
BRENDAN F. MURPHY
32 Waddell Street, Marietta, GA 30090 770-528-8900, 770-528-8947
The chief judge appoints associate magistrate judges to serve on the court. At present there are 19 associate magistrate judges on the court. The Magistrate Court presides over several case types such as civil small claims, garnishments, evictions, civilian warrant applications, probable cause and bond hearings, as well as ordinance violations.
12 East Park Square, Marietta, GA 30090 State Court Case Assistance: 770-528-2660
The State Court of Cobb County handles criminal cases below the grade of felony, civil actions, except those actions in which exclusive jurisdiction is vested in Superior Court, and traffic cases. The court is comprised of 12 elected judges. Cases brought before the judges are completed by way of jury and non-jury trials in addition to pleas and settlements.
32 Waddell Street, 5th & 6th Floor, Marietta, GA 30090 770-528-2220, 770-528-2561 (Fax)
Cobb County Juvenile Court judges are appointed to a four-year term by the Superior Court judges.
32 Waddell Street, Marietta, GA 30090 770-528-1900, 770-528-1996 (Fax)
The Probate Court of Cobb County has exclusive jurisdiction in the following matters: appointment and removal of executors and administrators; appointment and removal of guardians of minors and incapacitated adults; audit of returns of executors, administrators, and guardians; issuance of marriage licenses; issuance of weapons carry licenses; and other miscellaneous services.
To tax for transit or not to tax —that is the question that Cobb voters will answer at the polls in 2024.
The Cobb Board of Commissioners is set to put the question to a vote in November 2024, when Cobb residents will get the chance to decide if a one-penny sales tax should go toward expanding transit options in the county.
As of August 2023, two proposals for the mobility special-purpose local-option sales tax, or M-SPLOST, were on the table for the commission to consider putting on the ballot.
Both plans are based on a 1% sales tax, and each presents a vision for the development of a more robust bus transit system in Cobb, known as high-capacity
transit, over 10 years.
Both also envision a bus rapid transit system, characterized by fixed routes on dedicated bus lanes along busy corridors. Those routes span the north end of the county at Kennesaw State University and the Town Center area down to an expanded and improved Cumberland bus transfer center, with connection opportunities to the H.E. Holmes MARTA station in Atlanta and a regional link to Atlanta across Interstate 285.
“This is very different from just strictly a bus as we’ve seen it in metro Atlanta,” Cobb Transportation Director Drew Raessler said. “They’re specialized vehicles in dedicated lanes, and the beauty of the dedicated lanes and the enhanced stops is to make it
operate the same as light rail.”
The first plan is for a 30-year tax the county’s Department of Transportation projects would produce $10.9 billion in revenue.
As part of the 30-year tax, the county has proposed building a high-capacity transit system at a cost of $4.5 billion over the first 10 years of the M-SPLOST program.
The system would span 108 miles of routes and is projected to cost between $2.7-$2.9 billion, while an additional $1.6 billion would be used for improvements to the transit infrastructure.
Chairman Choice Voucher ella Murphy Senior Asset ManagerThe tax includes both bus rapid transit and arterial rapid transit, which is a network of bus routes along busy roads where increased transit need is expected.
In addition to bus rapid transit routes connecting Town Center to Cumberland via Marietta, a route from Cumberland to Midtown Atlanta would be offered, as well as a connection to Wellstar Cobb Hospital from Marietta.
Operating OfficerThe arterial rapid transit offered through this tax plan would include bus routes along South Cobb Drive and State Route 120, as well as a route from Cumberland to Wellstar Cobb Hospital.
brenda
Marlin Information TechnologyThe second, $3.4 billion tax Raessler presented to Cobb commissioners in August is a 10-year tax, during which time the county would build out the entirety of a 53-mile, bus rapid transit system.
That system would come at an estimated cost of $1.7-$1.8 billion.
Also unlike the 30-year proposal, the 10-year tax plan would not include any arterial rapid transit, Raessler explained.
“The high-capacity network is the difference between a 30-year and a 10-year program,” Raessler said.
That translates to fewer connections across the
The Marietta Housing Authority is "Making Housing Work" by offering housing programs that lift up the community and set the foundation that empowers families to take charge of their future.
“Making Life Conditions Our Priority for over 80 Years”
central part of the county, as well as no bus rapid transit route into Midtown Atlanta.
Though there is an estimated $1 billion difference between the high-capacity transit systems for the two proposals, the funding for those “other components” of the system would be the same, estimated at $1.6 billion.
“These would all be delivered simultaneously, and really, that holds true for both scenarios,” Raessler said.
These components include $500 million for transit operations and $600 million for vehicles, facilities and amenities, including upgrades to local bus stops and funding for revamped transfer centers in Marietta and Cumberland, and a new transfer center in south Cobb.
Another $350 million is slated for accessibility and operational improvements in the areas where the county would be expanding its transit footprint. These are known as “transit supportive” projects, Raessler explained, and would aim “to improve the operations of the system or improve access to transit.”
Examples of those projects include trail improvements, intersection improvements and corridor improvements. Those projects will become more clearly defined with more public engagement, Raessler said.
He added that $100 million would be dedicated to microtransit options — more localized bus systems to help people get to the bus rapid transit and arterial rapid transit hubs.
Rounding out the $1.6 billion would be $50 million for transit technology upgrades to support the larger system.
All registered voters in Cobb will have the chance to decide the future of transit options in the county come November 2024.
In August, roughly 107,000 students in the Cobb County School District and just under 9,000 students in Marietta City Schools returned to class.
The 2023-2024 school year marks the third full school year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and on the first day back, Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said with COVID-19 in “the rearview mirror,” he looked forward to smooth sailing.
“It’s just tremendous, the job the administrators and the teachers do at every school,” he said. “It’s just awesome to see them on the first day, see that excitement.”
Cobb has 13 new principals this year, and about 600 new teachers.
The district’s new principals are: Kahliah Rachel at Austell Elementary; Dwan Jones at Clarkdale Elementary; Ashley Beasley at Davis Elementary; Bradley Blackman at Dickerson Middle; Laura Fiedler at Frey Elementary; Maria Braswell at Green Acres Elementary; Ashley Mize at King Springs
Elementary; Josh Fowler at Lost Mountain Middle; Katie Derman at Mountain View Elementary; Shayna Clinkscales at Riverside Elementary; Tiffany Jackson at Sanders Elementary; William Dryden at Sedalia Park Elementary; and Lindsey McGovern at Shallowford Falls Elementary.
Marietta started its school year with four new principals: Marvin Crumbs at Marietta High; Keynun Campbell at Marietta Sixth Grade Academy; Tricia Patterson at Lockheed Elementary, and Heather Woods at Marietta Center for Advanced Academics.
Additionally, the Marietta High School College and Career Academy hired Rob Garcia III as its new CEO.
Both Cobb and Marietta schools are making significant investments in their staff this school year.
In Cobb, new this year is the “Georgia’s BEST” program, through which teachers can earn graduate degrees at no personal cost.
The program is a partnership between Cobb schools and the University of West Georgia. The school district pays for the cost of the degrees, though University of West Georgia discounts them.
Cobb, which has about 8,000 teachers, saw overwhelming interest in the program when it was announced. Within 48 hours, 4,700 Cobb educators submitted applications indicating their interest.
Ragsdale hopes to expand the program in the future and see other districts follow suit. He’d like Cobb teachers one day to look back and say, “how crazy was it that we used to pay for our own degrees?”
The first cohort of teachers had 500 slots available. Some started their studies over the summer, while others, like Compton Elementary teacher Courtney Engstrom, started in August.
“I probably wouldn’t have done it otherwise,” said Engstrom, who teaches fourth grade. “So I’m thankful for the opportunity.”
Marietta has hired 37 additional reading specialists for grades one through five to support literacy. This will reduce the teacher-student ratio to 1:10 — the ratio previously had ranged from 1:19 to 1:27, Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera said.
Literacy has become a priority in Marietta schools, and the most recent Georgia Milestones numbers bear that out: The average score for third grading reading jumped by 20 points from last spring, five times the increase seen in other metro Atlanta districts and the state.
The district credited its Literacy and Justice for All program, a partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta and other organizations, for the marked increase in third grade reading performance.
“That’s not luck. That’s learning,” Rivera said at a staff event ahead of the new school year. “We are not just having statistically significant gains, we have incredible gains that are changing outcomes for children and writing the story here in Marietta that is truly special, different and better for the entire country.”
Both the Cobb and Marietta boards of education approved raises for their respective district’s employees this year.
In Marietta, employees are seeing average raises of 8.5%, while Cobb schools employees will see raises ranging from 7.5% to 12.1%.
Cobb gets new middle school, Marietta renovates West Side Elementary
Cobb schools has a new middle school in south Cobb that pays homage to a legendary Cobb educator.
In January, the Cobb school board approved $9 million to convert Lindley Sixth Grade Academy to Betty Gray Middle School.
A few months earlier, the school board voted to name the new middle school after Gray, a beloved educator and former school board chair who died in 2022.
Ragsdale said the conversion of Lindley 6th Grade Academy to a middle school, a move advocated by former Cobb school board member David Morgan, was a long time coming.
Ragsdale also credited Morgan’s successor, Leroy Tre’ Hutchins, with carrying that effort forward.
With the conversion of Lindley 6th Grade Academy to Betty Gray Middle School, the attendance zone for Lindley Middle School was split to accommodate the new school.
The return to school in August also marked the return to a renovated school for students and staff at West Side Elementary in Marietta.
The school received a $13 million renovation, conducted over 54 days during the summer.
“This community has waited a long time for the entire building to look as special as it does today,” Rivera said as he visited West Side on the first day of the school year.
The improvements include a new playground in the back, additional parking and reworked carpool lanes. Inside, the district put in new plumbing, air conditioning, electrical, windows, flooring, carpet, paint, furniture and a new cafeteria.
The school, built in 1949, still has some original wooden features and thick old walls. The new windows put in are paned, resembling older windows. First-grade teacher Erica Beck appreciated the efforts to preserve the building’s mid-century character.
“It didn’t lose that home touch that West Side always has,” Beck said.
In 2012, two mothers wanted to provide their dyslexic children with a specialized education in a Christian setting. GRACEPOINT school began with four students an has grown steadily to an enrollment of more than 130 students in grades one through eight.
The mission is to equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. They strive to instIll a lifelong desire for their students to grow in wisdom and knowledge of the Lord, so that each will fulfill God’s purpose, and bring Him glory.
GRACEPOINT’s instructional program is 1 of only 19 programs in the nation to be accredited by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham. After completing remediation, students transition to area public and private schools.
GRACEPOINT utilizes the Orton-Gillingham method, a multi-sensory approach, woven into all subject areas. Their students receive 60-75 minutes of explicit reading instruction daily by a certified Orton-Gillingham teacher. The student/ teacher ratio for reading is 5:1 while all other core subjects have a student/teacher ratio of 8:1.
The Cobb school board is a seven-member body consisting of a chair, a vice-chair and five board members. All seven positions are elected by and represent one of seven areas of the county. The chair and vice chair are elected by the board at a special-called meeting. All positions serve four-year terms.
Editor’s note: These are the Cobb school board members through the end of 2024, when terms for posts 1, 3, 5 and 7 will expire. Elections for those posts will be held in November 2024. Elections for posts 2, 4, and 6 will occur in 2026.
426-3453
The Marietta school board is a seven-member body consisting of a chair, vice-chair and five board members. All seven positions are elected by and represent one of seven areas of the city. The chair and vice chair are elected by the board at the first board meeting of the year. All positions serve four-year terms. These are the Marietta City School board members through the end of 2025, when all seven terms expire.
770-422-3500 ext. 7253
1. A.L. Burruss Elementary 325 Manning Road Marietta, GA 30064
(770) 429-3144
Grades: K-5 Students: 378 Teachers: 37 GA English/ Math Science Social
English/ Math Science Social
3. Hickory Hills Elementary 500 Redwood Dr., SW Marietta, GA 30064
(770) 429-3125
Grades: K-5 Students: 394
31 GA English/ Math Science Social
4. Lockheed Elementary 1205 Merritt Road Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 429-3196
6. Park Street Elementary 105 Park Street SE Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 429-3180
61 GA English/ Math Science Social
Grades: K-5 Students: 737
Grades: K-5 Students: 487 Teachers: 47
GA English/ Math Science Social
5. Marietta Center for Advanced Academics 311 Aviation Road Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 420-0822
Grades: K-5
301
25
English/ Math Science Social
7.
Science Social
Grades:
Students: 547
31 GA English/ Math Science Social
9. Acworth Intermediate 4220 Cantrell Road
Acworth, GA 30101
(770) 975-6600
Grades: 2-5 Students: 522 Teachers:
GA English/ Math Science Social
12. Austell Elementary 5600 Mulberry Street Austell, GA 30106
(770) 819-5804
Grades: K-5 Students: 398 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
15. Belmont Hills Elementary 605 Glendale Place Smyrna, GA 30080
(678) 842-6810
Grades: K-5 Students: 281
English/ Math Science Social
10. Addison Elementary 3055 Ebenezer Road Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 578-2700
Grades: K-5 Students: 593 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
13. Baker Elementary 2361 Baker Road NW Acworth, GA 30101
(770) 975-6629
Grades: K-5 Students: 814 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
16. Big Shanty Elementary 1575 Ben King Road Kennesaw, GA 30144
(678) 594-8023
Grades: 3-5 Students: 558
11. Argyle Elementary 2420 Spring Road Smyrna, GA 30080
(678) 842-6800
14. Bells Ferry Elementary 2600 Bells Ferry Road Marietta, GA 30066
(678) 594-8950
17. Birney Shanty Elementary
775 Smyrna-Powder Springs Rd. Marietta, GA 30060
(678) 842-6824
Grades: K-5 Students: 327
Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grades: K-5 Students: 739 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
mtparanschool.com/tour
Grades: K-5 Students: 704
18. Blackwell Elementary
3470 Canton Road
Marietta, GA 30066
(678) 494-7600
Grades: K-5 Students: 642 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies Grade 3 507
19. Brumby Elementary
815 Terrell Mill Road SE
Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 916-7070
Grades: K-5 Students: 1019 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
25. Clarkdale Elementary
4725 Ewing Road Austell, GA 30106
(770) 819-2422
Grades: K-5 Students: 710 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
32. Eastvalley Elementary
2570 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068
(770) 578-7214
Grades: K-5 Students: 708 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 528 532 - - -
Grade 4 517 531 - - - - - -
Grade 5 522 511 513 - - -
20. Bryant Elementary
6800 Factory Shoals Road
Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2402
Grades: K-5 Students: 876 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
26. Clay Harmony Leland Elementary
6326 Factory Shoals Rd SW Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-0736
Grades: K-5 Students: 953 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
33. Fair Oaks Elementary 407 Barber Road
Marietta, GA 30060
(678) 594-8080
Grades: K-5 Students: 772 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 465 508 - - - - - -
Grade 4 477 507 - - - - - -
Grade 5 483 490 466 - - -
21. Bullard Elementary
3656 Old Stilesboro Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(678) 594-8720
Grades: K-5 Students: 805 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
27. Compton Elementary 3450 New Macland Road Powder Springs, GA 30127
(770) 222-3700
Grades: K-5 Students: 601 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
34. Ford Elementary
1345 Mars Hill Road
Acworth, GA 30101
(678) 594-8092
Grades: K-5 Students: 776 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 541 551 - - - - - -
Grade 4 535 557 - - - - - -
Grade 5 539 527 536 - - -
22. Chalker Elementary
325 North Booth Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(678) 494-7621
Grades: K-5 Students: 701
GA English/ Math Science Social
28. Davis Elementary 2433 Jamerson Road Marietta, GA 30066
(678) 494-7636
Grades: K-5 Students: 603 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
35. Frey Elementary 2865 Mars Hill Road
Acworth, GA 30101
(770) 975-6655
Grades: K-5 Students: 760 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 533 524 - - - - - -
Grade 4 531 538 - - - - - -
Grade 5 543 535 530 - - -
23. Cheatham Hill Elementary
1350 John Ward Road SW
Marietta, GA 30064
(678) 594-8034
Grades: K-5 Students: 1042 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language
29. Dowell Elementary 2121 West Sandtown Road Marietta, GA 30064 (678) 594-8059
Grades: K-5 Students: 894 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
36. Garrison Mill Elementary 4111 Wesley Chapel Road
Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 642-5600
Grades: K-5 Students: 661 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 540 536 - - - - - -
Grade 4 537 557 - - - - - -
Grade 5 543 552 558 - - -
24. City View Elementary
285 South Gordon Road
Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2553
Grades: K-5 Students: 886 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
30. Due West Elementary 3900 Due West Road Marietta, GA 30064
(678) 594-8071
Grades: K-5 Students: 644 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
37. Green Acres Elementary 2000 Gober Avenue
Smyrna, GA 30080 (678) 842-6905
Grades: K-5 Students: 550 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 458 500 - - - - - -
Grade 4 472 494 - - - - - -
Grade 5 481 484 456 - - -
31. East Side Elementary
3850 Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 578-7200
Grades: K-5 Students: 1126 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
38. Hayes Elementary 1501 Kennesaw Due West Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(678) 594-8127
Grades: K-5 Students: 847 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grade 3 505 508 - - - - - -
Grade 4 509 524 - - - - - -
Grade 5 515 513 514 - - -
39. Hendricks Elementary
5243 Meadow Road
Powder Springs, GA 30127
(770) 819-2387
Grades: K-5 Students: 512
GA English/ Math Science Social
42. Kemp Elementary 865 Corner Road Powder Springs, GA 30127 (678) 594-8158
Grades: K-5 Students: 896 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
45. King Springs Elementary 1041 Reed Road
Smyrna, GA 30082
(678) 842-6944
Grades: K-5 Students: 1122
GA English/ Math Science Social
40. Hollydale Elementary
2901 Bay Berry Drive Marietta, GA 30008 (678) 594-8143
Grades: K-5 Students: 565
GA English/ Math Science Social
43. Kennesaw Elementary
3155 Jiles Road Kennesaw, GA 30144
(678) 594-8172
Grades: K-2 Students: 586 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
41. Keheley Elementary 1985 Kemp Road Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 494-7836
Grades: K-5
GA English/ Math Science Social
44. Kincaid Elementary 1410 Kincaid Road Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 578-7238
Grades: K-5 Students: 588 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
46. LaBelle Elementary 230 Cresson Drive Marietta, GA 30060
(678) 842-6955
Grades: K-5 Students: 362 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
47. Lewis Elementary 4179 Jim Owens Road Kennesaw, GA 30152 (770) 975-6673
Grades: K-5 Students: 562
GA English/ Math Science Social
48. Mableton Elementary
5220 Church Street
Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2513
51. Mount Bethel Elementary
1210 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 578-7248
Grades: K-5
Students: 915
Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies Grade
49. McCall Primary 4496 Dixie Avenue
Acworth, GA 30101 (770) 975-6775
Grades: K-5 Students: 958 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
52. Mountain View Elementary
3151 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 578-7265
Grades: K-1
Students: 268
Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
50. Milford Elementary 2390 Austell Road Marietta, GA 30008
(678) 842-6966
Grades: K-5 Students: 368 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Grades: K-5 Students: 852 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
53. Murdock Elementary 2320 Murdock Road Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 509-5071
Grades: K-5 Students: 922 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Language Arts
PK(3)-12
“Walker
“The
“Walker
57. Pickett’s Mill Elementary
6400 Old Stilesboro Road
Acworth, GA 30101 (770) 975-7172
Grades: K-5 Students: 711 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
60. Powers Ferry Elementary 403 Powers Ferry Road Marietta, GA 30067 (770) 578-7936
Grades: K-5 Students: 422 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
63.
58. Pitner Elementary 4575 Wade Green Road Acworth, GA 30102 (678) 594-8320
61. Riverside Elementary 461 South Gordon Road Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-5851
Grades: K-5 Students: 569 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
64. Sanders Elementary 1550 Anderson Mill Road SW Austell, GA 30106 (770) 819-2568
English/ Math Science Social
59. Powder Springs Elementary 4570 Grady Grier Drive Powder Springs, GA 30127 (770) 222-3746
Grades: K-5 Students: 831 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Language Arts Studies
62. Rocky Mount Elementary 2400 Rocky Mountain Road Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 591-5050
Grades: K-5 Students: 564 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
65. Sedalia Park Elementary 2230 Lower Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 509-5162 Grades: K-5 Students: 611
66. Shallowford Falls Elementary
3529 Lassiter Road
Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 642-5610
Grades: K-5 Students: 620 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
69. Still Elementary 870 Casteel Road Powder Springs, GA 30127 (678) 594-8287
Grades: K-5 Students: 789 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science
72. Tritt Elementary 4435 Post Oak Tritt Road Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 642-5630
Grades: K-5 Students: 813 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
67. Smyrna Elementary 1099 Fleming Street Smyrna, GA 30080
(678) 842-6741
Grades: K-5 Students: 920 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
70. Teasley Elementary 3640 Spring Hill Parkway Smyrna, GA 30080
(770) 437-5945
Grades: K-5 Students: 995 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
73. Varner Elementary 4761 Gaydon Road Powder Springs, GA 30127
(770) 222-3775
Grades: K-5 Students: 781 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
68. Sope Creek Elementary
3320 Paper Mill Road Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 916-7085
Grades: K-5 Students: 1098 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
71. Timber Ridge Elementary 5000 Timber Ridge Road Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 642-5621
Grades: K-5 Students: 502 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
74. Vaughan Elementary 5950 Nichols Road Powder Springs, GA 30127
(678) 594-8298
Grades: K-5 Students: 634 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
1. Marietta Sixth Grade Academy 340 Aviation Road SE Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 429-3115
Grades: 6 Students: 665 Teachers: 82 GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
2. Marietta Middle School 121 Winn Street NW Marietta, GA 30064 (770) 422-0311
Grades: 7-8 Students: 1302 Teachers: 133 GA English/ Math Science Social
3. Awtrey Middle School 3601 Nowlin Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144 (770) 975-6615
Grades: 6-8
GA English/ Math Science Social
4. Barber Middle School 4222 Cantrell Road Acworth, GA 30101
(770) 975-6764
Grades: 6-8 Students: 860
GA English/ Math Science Social
6. Campbell Middle School 3295 Atlanta Road Smyrna, GA 30080
(678) 842-6873
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1238 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
5. Betty Gray Middle School
1550 Pebblebrook Circle
Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2414
Grades: 6-8 Students: 525 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
7. Cooper Middle School 4605 Ewing Road Austell, GA 30106 (770) 819-2438
Grades: 6-8 Students: 997 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
8. Daniell Middle School 2900 Scott Road Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 594-8048
Grades: 6-8 Students: 993 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
9. Dickerson Middle School
855 Woodlawn Drive
Marietta, GA 30068
770-578-2710
16. Hightower Trail Middle School
3905 Post Oak Tritt Road Marietta, GA 30062
(770) 578-7225
23. Palmer Middle School 690 North Booth Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(770) 591-5020
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1225
Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
Grades: 6-8 Students: 983 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
Grades: 6-8 Students: 833 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies
10. Dodgen Middle School
1725 Bill Murdock Road
Marietta, GA 30062
770-578-2726
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1224 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
17. Lindley Middle School
50 Veterans Memorial Hwy. Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2496
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1083 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
24. Pearson Middle School 240 Barber Road
Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 429-6012
Grades: 6-8 Students: 851 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies
11. Durham Middle School 2891 Mars Hill Road NW Acworth, GA 30101
(770) 975-6641
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1031 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts
18. Lost Mountain Middle School 700 Old Mountain Road Kennesaw, GA 30152 (678) 594-8224
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1015 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
25. Pine Mountain Middle School 2720 Pine Mountain Circle
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(678) 594-8252
Grades: 6-8 Students: 572 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Milestones Language Arts Studies Grade
12. East Cobb Middle School
825 Terrell Mill Road Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 578-2740
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1339 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
19. Lovinggood Middle School 3825 Luther Ward Road Powder Springs, GA 30127 (678) 331-3015
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1243
GA English/ Math Science Social
26. Simpson Middle School 3340 Trickum Road
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 971-4711
Grades: 6-8 Students: 851 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social Milestones Language Arts Studies Grade 6 553
13. Floyd Middle School
4803 Floyd Road Mableton, GA 30126
(770) 819-2453
Grades: 6-8 Students: 848
GA English/ Math Science Social
20. Mabry Middle School 2700 Jims Road Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 928-5546
Grades: 6-8 Students: 916
GA English/ Math Science Social
27. Smitha Middle School 2025 Powder Springs Road Marietta, GA 30064
(678) 594-8267
Grades: 6-8 Students: 890 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Arts Studies
14. Garrett Middle School
5235 Austell-Powder Springs Road Austell, GA 30106
(770) 819-2466
Grades: 6-8 Students: 905 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
21. McCleskey Middle School
4080 Maybreeze Road Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 928-5560
Grades: 6-8 Students: 571
GA English/ Math Science Social
28. Tapp Middle School
3900 Macedonia Road Powder Springs, GA 30127
(770) 222-3758
Grades: 6-8 Students: 893 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Arts Studies
15. Griffin Middle School 4010 King Springs Road SE Smyrna, GA 30082
(678) 842-6917
Grades: 6-8 Students: 998
GA English/ Math Science Social
22. McClure Middle School
3660 Old Stilesboro Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(678) 331-8131
Grades: 6-8 Students: 1000 Teachers: GA English/ Math Science Social
Language Arts Studies
516
29.
35. Kell High School 4770 Lee Waters Road NE Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 494-7844 Grades: 9-12
32. Cobb Horizon High School 1765 The Exchange SE Atlanta, GA 30339
33. Harrison High School
4500 Due West Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(678) 594-8104 Grades: 9-12
34. Hillgrove High School
4165 Luther Ward Road Powder Springs, GA 30127 (678) 331-3961 Grades: 9-12
36. Kennesaw Mountain High School 1898 Kennesaw-Due West Road Kennesaw, GA 30152 (678) 594-8190
39. North Cobb High
3400 Old 41 Highway, NW Kennesaw, GA 30144 (770) 975-6685
2451 Favor Road Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 437-5900
52 Moore Ave. Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: 770-421-5839
Website: www.actonmarietta.org
Director: Georgette Dobkin
Accreditation: IALDS
Number of staff: 4
Grades: K-8
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $11,750
School programs: full day, five days per week, secular, student-driven learning model
After-school care: No
Year established: 2017 under previous name, 2019 as Acton Academy
4728 Wood St.
Acworth, GA 30101
Phone: 678-401-5855
Website: www.brookwoodchristian.com
Principal: Kim Wigington
Accreditation: GAC
Number of staff: 19
Grades: 1-12
Application fee: $20
Average tuition: $19,500
School programs: focus on languagebased learning differences like dyslexia
After-school care: No (before-school care begins at 7:30 a.m.)
Year established: 2004
1330 Cobb Parkway NW
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-424-0606
Website: www.caschool.org
Director: Jim Hundertmark
Accreditation: NCPSA, INS, GAPSAC, MSA-CESS
Number of staff: 11
Grades: Pre-K-8
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $5,160
School programs: Spanish, Choir, Bell Choir, Band, Art, Student Association, Lego Robotics, Sports
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1958
150 Powers Ferry Road SE Marietta, GA 30067
Phone: 770-973-2731
Website: www.casamontessori.com
Director: Suzanne Johnson
Accreditation: AMI, GAC
Number of staff: 22
Grades: Toddler-6
Average tuition: $10,931 - $16,008
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1974
3130 Atlanta Road SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
Phone: 770-435-1596
Website: www.ccssmyrna.org
Director: Phenette Pugh, head of school
Accreditation: SACS, Cognia, ACSA, ACCS
Number of teachers: 17
Grades: PreK-8
Application deadline: Sept. 5
Application fee: $50
Average tuition: $7,589 - $12,686
School programs: Classical Christian curriculum
After-school care: Yes
3588 Hickory Grove Road
Acworth, GA 30101
Phone: 770-529-7077
Website: www.cornerstoneprep.org
Director: Marsha Robbins, head of school
Accreditation: Cognia
Number of teachers: 65
Grades: K-12
Application deadline: Nov. 30 (spring), June 20 (fall)
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $4,200 - $8,520
School programs: Athletics, Fine arts, Student clubs
After-school care: No
Year established: 2004
Year established: 1975
488 Hurt Road SW
Smyrna, GA 30082
Phone: 770-801-8292
Website: www.coveredbridgemontessori.com
Director: Qiu Fang, CEO
Accreditation: GAC, American Montessori Society
Number of staff: 16
Grades: 14 months-12 years old
Average tuition: Ranges by age group, $10,000 - $14,500
School programs: Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, Mandarin
Year established: 1981
4. Casa Montessori School 5. Cornerstone Preparatory AcademyLower School Campus: 2356 Clay Road, Austell, GA 30106
Upper School Campus: 4961 Brownsville Road, Powder Springs, GA 30127
Phone: 678-426-1600
Website: www.cumberlandchristian.org
Director: Eddie Fincher
Grades: PreK - 12th grade
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $75
Average tuition: $6,550 - $9,495
4607 Burnt Hickory Road
Marietta, GA 30064
Phone: 770-420-2153
Website: www.dominionchristian.org
Director: Ed Morris, head of school
Accreditation: Cognia, ACSI
Number of teachers: 22
Grades: 6-12
Application fee: $120
Average tuition: $9,500 - $10,500
School programs: College Preparatory, Christian
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1997
4616 Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-565-0881
Website: www.eccs.org
Director: Billy Creech, head of school
Accreditation: GAC, CSI
Grades: K-8
Application opens: Nov. 1
Application fee: $150
Average tuition: $7,524 - $10,968
School programs: Accelerated 8th grade math, five-day Charlotte Mason School, Drama Club, Code Club, Cross Country
After-school care: No
Year established: 1987
2450 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Phone: 770-971-2332
Website: www.eastsidechristianschool.com
Director: Tiffany Stark, Head of School
Accreditation: ACSI, Cognia
Number of staff members: 35
Grades: K-8
Application opens: Year-round
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $10,870 - $12,049
School programs: Athletics, art, music, drama, STEM, Spanish, The Discovery program & ROAR program
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1983
2111 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Phone: 770-973-8921
Website: www.faithmarietta.org
Director: Gordon Stuckert, principal
Accreditation: Cognia, National Lutheran Schools Accreditation
Number of teachers: 20
Grades: Age 1 - 8th grade
Application opens: November
Application fee: $50
Average tuition: $5,700 - $12,750 School programs: Spanish, Physical Education, Music, Band, Handbells, Athletics, Robotics, Dance, Drama
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1958
— Kennesaw
2958 North Main Street NW Kennesaw, GA 30144
Phone: 770-422-3254
Website: www.fbcskennesaw.com
Director: Sue Gunderman, headmaster
Accreditation: ACSI
Number of teachers: 25
Grades: Age 2 - 8th grade
Application fee: $75
Average tuition: $2,310 - $8,350 School programs: Music, Spanish, STEAM, Art, Dance, Robotics League
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1969
1500 Stanley Road NW
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Phone: 770-429-4799
Website: cadence-education.com/ locations/ga/kennesaw/769/#overview
Accreditation: Cognia, NAEYC
Number of teachers: 40
Grades: PreK - 6th grade School programs: STEM
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 2004
570 Piedmont Road
Marietta, GA 30066
Phone: 678-709-6634
Website: www.gracepointschool.org
Director: Joy Wood
Accreditation: SAIS, GAPSEC, AOGPE, Cognia, GAC
Number of staff: 51
Grades: 1-8
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $125
Average tuition: $25,000 - $25,500 School programs: Christian school for children with dyslexia
After-school care: No
Year established: 2012
Academy
955 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Phone: 678-784-5231
Website: www.jfca.org
Director: Nathan McCown
Accreditation: ACSI, SACS, Cognia
Number of teachers: About 50
Grades: K-12
Application opens: November
Application fee: $275 - $450
Average tuition: $4,940 - $5,320
School programs: Athletics, leadership opportunities, clubs, musical theater
After-school care: No
Year established: 2004
148 Church Street
Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: 770-424-8797
Website: www.mariettafbc.org/cee
Director: Elizabeth Coan
Number of teachers: 31 Staff
Grades: Toddlers, 2s, 3s, 4s and Kinder
Connection
Application opens: Jan. 25
Application fee: Varies
Average tuition: Monthly tuition varies according to class
School programs: music, creative movement, STEM and chapel
After-school care: No
Year established: 1955
1517 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: 770-971-4633
Website: www.mdeschool.org
Director: Mindy Elkan
Accreditation: GAC
Number of staff: 30
Grades: K-8
Application opens: rolling
Average tuition: $22,000
School programs: Education for students with language-based learning disabilities
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 2009
4635 Dallas Highway
Powder Springs, GA 30127
Phone: 770-590-1866
Website: www.midwayschool.org
Director: Matt Ross, Principal
Accreditation: ACSI
Number of teachers: 32
Grades: PreK - 8th grade
Application opens: January
Application fee: $175
Average tuition: $3,438 - $8,052
School programs: Junior Master Garden, Bible studies, FCA, sports, drama, chorus, band, beta club
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1996
Main Campus: 4385 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30068
North Campus: 2509 Post Oak Tritt Road, Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-971-0245
Website: www.mtbethelchristian.org
Director: Jim Cianca, head of school
Accreditation: SACS, SAIS
Number of staff: 131
Grades: Junior K-12
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $100 - $175
Average tuition: $12,500 - $18,350
School programs: Athletics, world languages, Bible, fine arts, STEM, honors programs, robotics, service projects, student government, student clubs
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1998
1275 Stanley Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Phone: 770-578-0182
Website: www.mtparanschool.com
Director: Timothy Wiens
Accreditation: Dual accreditation SAIS and Cognia
Number of teachers: About 200
Grades: PreK3 - 12
Application opens: November
Application fee: $75
Average tuition: $4,378 - $22,184
School programs: small class sizes, 56 AP/honors courses, robotics, STEAM, Spanish, Directed Studies for learning
differences
After-school care: Grades PreK3 - 8
Year established: 1976
4500 Eagle Drive
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Phone: 770-975-0252
Website: www.ncchristian.org
Director: Todd Clingman, head of school
Accreditation: Cognia, ACSI
Number of teachers: 90
Grades: PreK - 12th grade
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $7,160 - $18,530
School programs: AP and honors classes, dual enrollment, annual missions/service trips for Middle and Upper Schools, foreign language, annual retreats
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1983
5330 Brookstone Drive NW
Acworth, GA 30101
Phone: 770-792-7431
Website: acworth-ga.omegalearning.com
Director: Fiona Young
Accreditation: Cognia
Number of teachers: 8
Grades: 2-12
Application opens: rolling
Registration: $975
Average tuition: $11,200
Year established: 2008
2581B Spring Road
Smyrna, GA 30080
Phone: 404-777-QUAD (7823)
Website: www.thequadacademy.com
Owner: Jessa Depew
Accreditation: GAC
Number of staff: 46
Grades: Toddler - 2nd grade
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $500
Average tuition: $1,750 - $2,000/month School programs: Lango Kids Curriculum for French, Spanish, Chinese, and English. International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP)
After-school care: Yes
25. SAE School
6688 Mableton Parkway
Mableton, GA 30126
Phone: 678-239-3200
Website: www.saeschool.org
Director: Desmond Bobbett, principal
Accreditation: GAC, Cognia
Number of staff: 44
Grades: PreK - 8th
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $98
Average tuition: $11,400 - $13,200
School programs: Project-based and content learning, Spanish, Spanish art, Physical education, Music
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 2013
260 Hawkins Store Road NE
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Phone: 770-926-7729
Website: www.shilohhills.com/shcs-index.php
Director: Vic Bledsoe
Accreditation: Cognia, ACSI, GAPSAC
Number of teachers: 20
Grades: PreK - 12th grade
Application opens: rolling
Average tuition: $6,225 - $11,200
School programs: Music, Athletics, Foreign Language, Field Trips, Fine Arts
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1980
2160 Cooper Lake Road SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
Phone: 678-279-4300
Website: www.stbs.org
Director: The Rev. Brian Sullivan, head of school
Accreditation: SAIS/SACS
Number of staff members: 79
Grades: Preschool - 8th grade
Average tuition: $3,801 - $16,665
School programs: Spanish, summer camps, athletics, science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics programs for all grades
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 2008
1618 Ben King Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Phone: 770-419-8601
Website: www.scsiena.org
Principal: Kelly Wood
Accreditation: Cognia, NCEA, SAIS
Number of staff members: 25
Grades: K-8
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $155
Average tuition: $8,558 (active Catholic), $9,500 (non-Catholic)
School programs: Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Dance & Tumbling, Lego Robotics Team, Fine Arts, Scouts, Science
Olympiad, Music, Band
After School Care: Yes
Year established: 2002
81 Lacy Street
Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: 770-428-3328
Website: www.stjosephschool.org
Director: Ramon Villacure, principal
Accreditation: Cognia
Number of staff: 55
Grades: Pre-K4 - 8th
Application fee: $150
Average tuition: $7,946 (active Catholic), $10,322 (non-Catholic)
School programs: Spanish, robotics, drama, basketball, volleyball, art club, band, Lego club, Scouts
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1953
4010 Canton Road
Marietta, GA 30066
Phone: 770-765-2036
Website: www.thegardenmarietta.org
Director: Sara Walsh, director of operations
Number of teachers: 16
Grades: PreK-8
Application opens: January
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $11,625 but varies for kindergarten
School programs: A nature immersive, child-centered education
After-school care: No
Year established: 2015
3891 Nance Road
Acworth, GA 30101
Phone: 404-558-9809
Website: www.thelinkschoolacworth.org
Director: Rebecca Sartain
Accreditation: GAC
Grades: K-12
Application opens: Open enrollment
Application fee: $150
Average tuition: $12,900
School programs: Academics and social/ life skills
After-school care: No
Year established: 2014
Lower School Campus:
1480 Joyner Ave, SE, Marietta, GA 30060
Upper School Campus:
1650 Old Concord Rd, Marietta 30060
Phone: 770-874-8885
Website: www.stonehavenschool.org
Director: Brett Edwards
Accreditation: SAIS
Number of teachers: 25
Grades: K-11th grade
Application opens: Open
Application fee: $150
Average tuition: $2,500 - $12,300
School programs: Fine arts, athletics, lab, nature studies, piano
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 2004
700 Cobb Parkway North Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-427-2689
Website: www.thewalkerschool.org
Director: Carl Carlson, head of school
Accreditation: SAIS, NAIS
Number of teachers: 180+
Grades: PreK(3) - 12
Application fee: $85
Average tuition: $11,820 - $27,170
School programs: 26 AP courses, robotics and guided scientific research tracts within the 37,000-square foot state of the art science and technology building, internship opportunities (including with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), New Avenues
Immersive Dyslexia Program (grades 1-5), athletics, fine arts, community service, study abroad opportunities
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1957
34. The Wood Acres School
1772 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-971-1880
Website: www.woodacresschool.org
Director: Judy Thigpen
Accreditation: GAC
Grades: Pre-K - 8
Application opens: rolling
Application fee: $100
Average tuition: $5,000 - $13,900
School programs: Small class sizes, foreign language learning
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1969
35. Whitefield Academy
1 Whitefield Drive SE
Smyrna, GA 30126
Phone: 678-305-3000
Website: www.whitefieldacademy.com
Director: Kevin Bracher
Accreditation: SAIS, SACS, GHSA, AAAIS
Grades: PreK - 12
Application opens: October
Application fee: $75
Average tuition: $12,800 - $27,900
School programs: Christian, college prep, service
After-school care: Yes
Year established: 1997
East Cobb Library
4880 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 509-2730
Gritters Library
880 Shaw Park Road
Marietta, GA 30066
Monday — Sunday: Closed for Reconstruction (770) 528-2524
Note: During the rebuild of the new Gritters Library, the Mountain View Regional Library will serve as the go-to location for Gritters patrons.
Kemp Memorial Library
4029 Due West Road
Marietta GA 30064
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 528-2527
Lewis A. Ray Library
4500 Oakdale Road
Smyrna, GA 30080
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 7 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 1 p.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 801-5335
Mountain View Regional Library
3320 Sandy Plains Road
Marietta, GA 30066
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. (770) 509-2725
North Cobb Regional Library
3535 Old 41 Highway
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 801-5320
Powder Springs Library
4181 Atlanta St., Bldg. 1
Powder Springs, GA 30127
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 439-3600
Sewell Mill Library & Cultural Center
2051 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
(770) 509-2711
Sibley Library
1539 South Cobb Drive Marietta, GA 30060
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 7 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 1 p.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 528-2520
South Cobb Regional Library
805 Clay Road Mableton, GA 30126
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. (678) 398-5828
Stratton Library
1100 Powder Springs Road SW Marietta, GA 30064
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 528-2522
Sweetwater Valley Library
5000 Austell-Powder Springs Road, Suite 100 Austell, GA 30106
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 7 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 1 p.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 819-3290
Switzer Library
266 Roswell St.
Marietta, GA 30060
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. (770) 528-2320
Vinings Library
4290 Paces Ferry Road
Atlanta, GA 30339
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed (770) 801-5330
West Cobb Regional Library
1750 Dennis Kemp Lane
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Monday — Wednesday: 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Thursday — Friday: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. (770) 528-4699
On his first visit to campus since graduating more than 30 years ago, Ali Shilatifard couldn’t believe what he saw at Kennesaw State University.
A campus that had an enrollment of around 5,000 students when Shilatifard attended in the late 1980s has grown to more than 43,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
“I was floored with the growth here,” said Shilatifard, now chair of the department of biochemistry and molecular genetics at Northwestern University’s medical school. “When I attended KSU, there were six buildings at that time.”
The numbers bear out Shilatifard’s view. KSU, with campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta and a strong online presence, is the third-largest institution of higher learning in Georgia and one of the 50 largest in the country. Its diverse enrollment includes students from 157 of Georgia’s 159 counties, and the university has an economic impact of more than $1.8 billion on the local and regional economy.
Over the past year, the university has helped more students reach their goal of earning a college degree with a record 7,000 graduates at the May 2023 commencement ceremony. KSU has also increased research efforts leading to impactful discoveries, fostered new and more meaningful partnerships with industry, and celebrated a historic athletic season that brought national attention to Kennesaw State and the Cobb County community.
“Students are choosing KSU because they know that we will help them achieve their academic goals and provide them with opportunities for meaningful experiences and connections,” said President Kathy Schwaig. “They are choosing KSU knowing we will always put them first.”
One of the ways the university is helping students get off on the right foot is through a new program called FLIGHT. The program aims to help students make the adjustment from high school to college. It unites incoming freshmen into a supportive community to build a class identity by sharing in new traditions and participating in activities involving them in the wider KSU community.
FLIGHT brings several units together — orientation, student leadership, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Residence Life and Housing — to connect students with resources they need to help them stay on track and earn a degree in a timely manner.
“This is a long-term strategy to create an identity where every student in that class knows they’re part of a team, of a family,” said Eric Arneson, vice president of student affairs. “Our university is committed to student retention and graduation, and we know that students who are engaged with their school tend to stay.”
Scholarships can bypass barriers for those students who face financial challenges. Over the past year, the community helped KSU increase the number of scholarships available for students in need with more than $35 million in gifts, much of which were dedicated to scholarships.
To further student success, the university has added study spaces and dining options, as well as a new residence hall on the Kennesaw Campus and the renovated Engineering Lab on the Marietta Campus. An approved new Interdisciplinary STEM Building on the Marietta Campus will meet key research and instructional needs in fields such as computer science and engineering.
The university also has built upon existing degree programs, launching a Ph.D. in computer science, a master’s in digital financial technologies and bachelor’s degrees in learning, design and technology, and data science and analytics. New degrees will continue to be developed that create pathways for students to succeed while meeting workforce needs.
At its core, Kennesaw State’s mission is to educate the future generations of mathematicians, scientists, teachers, artists, engineers, business leaders, healthcare workers, and others. However, the university is not only preparing students for meaningful careers, it also is meeting the immediate and long-term needs of the community.
In the past year, Kennesaw State received grants from organizations such as the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health to support faculty in endeavors including the development of a framework for quantum computing and networking, research on a protein that could help treat heart and muscle damage, and work to reduce the number of suicides among veterans.
In addition, Kennesaw State created partnerships with community organizations, like the HatchBridge Incubator, developed with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. Students and community members use this resource to pursue
entrepreneurship and grow start-ups with help from experts. “For KSU to have its greatest influence, we must take a leadership role in conversations regarding the economic, social, and cultural elements of our region,” said Schwaig. “Our continued goal through these efforts is to build a strong and sustainable research infrastructure, as well as to strengthen our engagement with external organizations and grow KSU’s economic impact on the region.”
• Two metro Atlanta campuses, in Kennesaw and Marietta, with 11 academic colleges
• Enrollment of more than 43,000 students
• More than 130,000 alumni, including over 33,000 from Cobb County
• 37.8 percent of undergraduates are first-generation college students
• Economic impact of more than $1.8 billion on the local and regional economy
• 10 residential facilities housing 5,900 students
• Nearly 300 student-led organizations
• 18 NCAA Division I athletics teams (10 women’s varsity sports, 8 men’s)
Chattahoochee Technical College is now the largest technical college in Georgia with campus locations in Cobb, Bartow, Cherokee, Paulding and Pickens counties. Three of its campuses are located in Cobb County. Chattahoochee Tech provides students with an excellent, easily accessible and affordable college education.
A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Chattahoochee Tech awards certificates, diplomas and associate degrees in programs of study linked to the state’s fastest-growing, high-demand career fields. Students can transition easily from local high schools into the college and, if desired, on to four-year colleges. The college also offers Dual Enrollment and Dual Achievement programs for high school students, as well as customized workforce training for local industry, continuing education classes, and Adult Education programs with free GED and HiSET preparation classes.
The Chattahoochee Tech Marietta Campus continues to have the college’s largest campus enrollment each semester. This campus is located off South Cobb Drive, approximately two miles south of the Marietta Square. Popular areas of study at the Marietta Campus are programs in Health Sciences, which include the Practical Nursing and Nursing Assistant programs, Medical Laboratory Technology, Health Care Management, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting. These healthcare programs are housed in the college’s 71,716-square-foot Health Science building. This state-of-the-art facility features Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) classrooms and dedicated labs for anatomy, biology, chemistry, physics and physiology. Popular programs of study at the Marietta Campus also include Associate of Applied Science degree programs in Cybersecurity, Computer Programming, and Web Application Development, as well as degree programs in Accounting,
Business Technology, Marketing Management, Early Childhood Care & Education, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice Technology.
The Chattahoochee Tech Marietta Campus is also home to the Superior Plumbing Veterans Education and Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center, which is one of Georgia’s two VECTR Centers. Through this facility, Chattahoochee Tech helps U.S. military veterans translate military skills and experience into training programs for high-demand and meaningful careers. It provides active and retired veterans with a place to assist them as they transition into the civilian workforce and into postsecondary education institutions. The Superior Plumbing VECTR Center also features the Jim Cunningham Veteran Services Center, which provides a supportive environment for the college’s vast student population of veterans and military-affiliated students.
In east Cobb, the Chattahoochee Tech Mountain View Campus is located off Shallowford Road next to the Mountain View Aquatic Center. Popular programs of study based at this campus include Film and Video Production Technology, along with Design and Media Production Technology. Graduates of these programs may apply their skills in the state’s strong television and film industry. In south Cobb, the college’s Austell Campus is located on Veterans Memorial Parkway, with convenient access to I-285. This campus has a major focus on continuing education courses and professional development training, which is offered through the college’s Office of Economic Development.
Chattahoochee Tech celebrated the 60th anniversary of opening its first campus this year. The college began with one building in 1963 for 120 students at its current 980 South Cobb Drive location in Marietta. The evolution of Chattahoochee Tech for the past 60 years has been grounded in dynamic enrollment for programs of study designed to meet workforce needs. These programs of study prepare students to become the highly skilled professionals who are needed within the local workforce. The college also celebrated Chattahoochee Tech Mathematics Instructor Adrienne Baldwin being named the state’s top technical college instructor for 2023. She received the Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction at an awards ceremony hosted by the Technical College System of Georgia in Atlanta.
Fast Facts
• Number of Students (spring 2023): 8,064
• In-State tuition: $1,200 per semester for 12 credit hours
• Out-of-state tuition: $2,400 per semester for 12 credit hours
• International/foreign student tuition: $4,800 per semester for 12 credit hours
• Student Fees: The required student fee per semester is $426
More information about the college is available at www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.
flexibility
savings helps you get your career moving.
Life University is the largest single-campus College of Chiropractic in the world. Its 110-acre campus in Marietta is home to more than 2,700 undergraduate, graduate and professional students from all 50 United States and more than 45 countries.
While Life U is most known for its Doctor of Chiropractic program, the university also offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs rooted in innovation and purpose, along with the world’s most extensive and philosophically sound Doctor of Chiropractic program. Life U is breaking boundaries in multiple disciplines across the health and wellness spectrum by impacting and inspiring future leaders to become life-changing revolutionaries. The university celebrates its 48th anniversary this year.
Life U offers 14 undergraduate degrees and a preDoctor of Chiropractic pathway. Three graduate degrees are available, encompassing areas of sport health science, clinical nutrition and positive psychology. Some nationally recognized degree programs are also offered to distance learners through the College of Online Education.
The university strives to empower its students to succeed both professionally and personally. It offers an innovative approach to higher education while remaining true to its philosophical commitment to produce informed leaders who exemplify humanistic values in their professions. To
achieve this goal, Life U recognizes and demonstrates its dedication through three official Life University Values: Lasting Purpose, Vitalism and Integrity.
Life U earlier launched its 20 Percent Undergraduate Tuition Scholarship for eligible Cobb County residents, which began with 2023’s summer quarter. This scholarship provides 20 percent off the price of tuition and fees for Cobb County residents who are accepted to Life U as fulltime undergraduate students with a 3.0 GPA or greater upon entrance while maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 while a student at Life U. Undergraduate transfer students must have a 2.75 GPA upon entrance and maintain a 2.75 GPA while at Life U. For those entering Life U on an athletic scholarship, they are allowed a total of 20 percent discount on tuition and fees, or the amount of their athletic scholarship, whichever is greater.
“We are excited to offer this scholarship to Cobb County residents,” says Life U President Dr. Rob Scott. “We are proud to call Cobb County our home, and we want to invest resources into providing students in our local community with greater access to a high-quality postsecondary education. This scholarship is one way that we are helping to make that happen.”
For more information about the 20 Percent Undergraduate Tuition Scholarship, including eligibility requirements
and the application process, visit scholarshipsforcobb. com. Located at 1269 Barclay Circle in Marietta, Life U has $1 million in financial aid available to its undergraduate students.
With a busy campus life, there are more than 70 student clubs or organizations available to students. More than 60,000 patients visit Life U’s on-campus, outpatient clinic each year, with about 450 patient visits each quarter to Life Sport Science Institute. The university’s Socrates Cafe is one of the most sustainable college dining facilities in the country featuring organic and sustainable farming practices for produce and protein, use of community sponsored agriculture, low-carbon output, as well as recycling, composting and biodegradable waste practices.
Life U’s rugby program is one of the top programs in the country, making D1A National Championship finals in each of the past seven seasons, winning four of them. The university also offers varsity and club sports for students, as well as intramural sports. Life U offers 11 men’s varsity sports; 11 women’s varsity sports, one co-ed varsity sport and 19 intramural sports. For more information about Life University, visit www.life.edu.
• Life U offers 14 undergraduate degrees and a pre-Doctor of Chiropractic pathway
• The university recently launched its 20 Percent Undergraduate Tuition Scholarship for eligible Cobb County residents
• Life University is the largest single-campus College of Chiropractic in the world
• There are more than 70 student clubs or organizations available to students
Georgia Highlands College offers more affordable education options to Marietta students.
Georgia Highlands College Marietta campus was opened in 2005 as one of four locations in the state, offering a variety of educational programs for a relatively cost.
It offers four degree programs: an associate of arts, associate of science, a bachelor of science, and a bachelor of business administration. Students can choose from more than 40 areas of study, including 17 that are fully online.
The college serves more than 6,000 students statewide,
Serving more than 70,000 of our neighbors in need each year.
and has saved students on average $2 million a year by eliminating text book costs and providing free digital options, according to the University System of Georgia.
Fifteen associate of arts programs range from Art to Sociology. Eighteen associate of science programs range from Agriculture to Teacher Education. Bachelor of science programs include Building Information Modeling Management, Criminal Justice, Dental Hygiene, Environmental and Natural Resources, Health Science, and Nursing. Bachelor of Business Administration students can choose between Healthcare Management and Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Fast Facts
• Georgia Highlands College offers 5 degree-granting locations including online.
• Choose from more than 40 programs across our multiple locations, with several degrees offered fully online.
• Georgia Highlands College is a multi-campus, state college member of the University System of Georgia.
• For more information, visit GHC at www.highlands.edu
Georgia Highlands College is a multi-campus, state college member of the University System of Georgia. Founded in 1970 as Floyd Junior College, the college now serves thousands of students from over 30 counties in Northwest Georgia. GHC has sites in Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, and Dallas, as well as a robust online program. GHC supports the local economy with a regional economic impact of nearly $170 million.
The performing arts, live events and convention centers sustained some of the most intense economic hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Cobb Galleria Centre and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre have weathered the longest days of the pandemic to reach a more comfortable position.
Tom Rowland, CEPAC’s marketing and programming director, said that the number of shows on the books in 2023 and going into 2024 looks better than ever.
“We’re really expanding the diversity of the types of shows that we’re bringing to the Centre,” Rowland said. As an example, Rowland mentioned two Latino comedians that performed recently, a scheduled performance by a Korean artist, and two Iranian singers. “It’s really highlighting the versatility of this venue, in terms of its ability to stage anything from a concert to a play to a stand-up comic to an awards show,” Rowland said.
The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre celebrated its 16-year anniversary on August 27, 2023 with Sweet-16 Community Day and Open House. The celebration was a free event for the whole Cobb community to enjoy familyoriented activities at CEPAC. Other family events in fall 2023 were set to include a costume-palooza hosted by “Disney Junior Live” tour in October and a “Sonic the Hedgehog Symphony” in December.
CEPAC was the first major performing arts venue built in metro Atlanta in four decades when it opened in 2007, and
became one of metro Atlanta’s premier venues for Broadway shows, ballet, concerts, operas, educational shows, family performances, corporate meetings, wedding receptions and galas. It also hosts two resident companies: the Atlanta Ballet and the Atlanta Opera.
The CEPAC venue includes the 2,750-seat John A. Williams Theatre, the 10,000-square-foot Kessel D. Stelling Jr. Ballroom, a terrace, 1,000 parking spaces including a 700-space parking deck, and full-service food and beverage capabilities.
For the 2023-2024 show year, CEPAC had a number of comedic acts scheduled, including Jim Gaffigan, Tony Hinchcliffe and Druski, in addition to musical acts such as ABBA The Concert, Travis Tritt, Johnny Mathis and “Great Atlanta Blues & Music Festival”. The Atlanta Ballet is set to perform the Nutcracker, Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Ico, and Cinderella. The Atlanta Opera will perform Rigoletto, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Die Walkure.
From the perspective of the Cobb Galleria Centre, things have continued to improve during the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. “We will most likely end the year up about 20%, in terms of the number of events we’re doing in 2023 over 2022,” said the marketing manager of the Cobb Galleria Centre, Karen Caro. “Pretty much all of our annual or regular events have returned, and we’re starting to get back on the schedule of some association groups.”
Cancellations due to the pandemic are no longer on the radar, however, Caro did not declare the Galleria Centre recovered. She believes the post-pandemic trend is “certainly positive”.
Caro has been with the Galleria since the early 2000s.
The addition of the CEPAC, the Battery Atlanta and all the development in Cumberland has helped support the convention Centre over the years, she said. “When people come for a convention they look for amenities and things to do,” Caro said. “All of that has changed so much in the time I’ve been here.”
The Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre and Galleria Specialty Shops are all owned and operated by The Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority.
The Authority has seven members, including Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin, Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton and Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid. Created by the Georgia General Assembly in 1980, the Authority’s mission is to ensure the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre and Cobb Galleria Centre remains the top destination for performing arts and entertainment in the southeast United States.
The steady decline of the specialty shops in the Galleria Centre since the 1990s has spurred interest in a major redevelopment to build a marquee hotel, additional parking and a handful of new restaurants. A new revenue-sharing agreement between the authority, the Cobb Board of Commissioners, and Cobb’s cities ensures the authority will have a reliable cash flow for the next 30 years.
According to Karen Caro at the Cobb Galleria, nailing down the agreement was crucial so the authority could
plan to issue bonds for the redevelopment project, which is estimated to be a $150-170 million investment.
An economic development study of the project is expected to be completed by fall 2023, with ground being broken by early 2024.
Upcoming events at Cobb Galleria include the Fall 2023 Atlanta Home Show, Anime Weekend Atlanta 2023 and the Brawlhalla World Championships, a major international esports tournament.
2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway | Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone number: 770-916-2852
Website: www.cobbenergycentre.com
Capacity: 2,750 seats in the theatre; Ballroom is 10,000 sq. ft.
Parking: 1,000 spaces
Resident companies: The Atlanta Opera, The Atlanta Ballet
2 Galleria Parkway | Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone Number: 770-955-8000
Website: cobbgalleria.com
Capacity: 12,000
Parking: 1,800 spaces
Opening date: 1994
“I would say all the trails in Cobb County. You have Kennesaw Mountain. We go to Swift Cantrell Park in Kennesaw. There’s a lot of trails that go through downtown along the railroads.”
“Kennesaw Mountain was our first date!”
— Candler and McKenna O’Neal, Acworth
“Cherokee Chophouse up Canton Highway, it used to be Cherokee Cattle Company ... They’ve gutted the entire thing and now its a high-end steakhouse with a tremendous bar. ”
—
Mike Miller, Marietta
“The walking parks...there’s a new one down off Discovery Parkway. That’s my new favorite activity and it’s also a very good date, if they like that sort of thing.”
— Marty Dye, AustellThe 91st annual North Georgia State Fair, from September 21 to October 1, 2023, expects to draw over 300,000 people to Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, according to fair organizers.
Presented by Superior Plumbing, the fair features farm animals, flower shows, blue ribbon competitions, local entertainment, and a woide range of foods.
The fair is run by the Cobb County Fair Association, a nonprofit organization consisting of 24 residents of Cobb. The association was established three years after the inaugural fair in 1924. Today, the North Georgia State Fair is the second largest fair in the state, behind the state-funded National Fair in Perry, according to fair organizers.
The current fair manager, Tod Miller, has kept a timeline of significant events that shaped the fair into the spectacle it is today. Until 1941, the fair leased property from Dobbins Air Force Base on South Cobb Drive and was located across from the Glover Machine Shop. The fair returned after World War II in 1950 with the 18th annual Cobb County Fair. In 1966, the fair bought 115 acres and moved to its current location on Callaway Road. The next year, the name was changed to the North Georgia State Fair.
The 1980s was an expansive decade for the fair association. The organization, under the leadership of Jim R. Miller, donated the 115 acres on Callaway Road to the county for
the creation of a park. In the agreement with the county, the fair would have exclusive rights to the park every September.
A major change in the fair’s format in 1989 increased attendance. The fair began to add “big name talent” for concert-goers to enjoy, including Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley and Blake Shelton.
The Miller family is still managing the North Georgia State Fair. Tod and Missy Miller have unveiled another major change in 2023. Instead of concerts on some evenings, the Carriage KIA Grandstand Entertainment will feature a free live event every night. They include the Piccolo Zoppe Circus, Demolition Derby, Full Throttle Monster Trucks and the American Bull Riders Tour.
“There’s gonna be something extra for families to go to for free every night that’s included with the admission to the fair,” said the director of public relations for the NGSF, Missy Miller. “This will be something more family-friendly… that’s our newest thing this year.”
The North Georgia State Fair’s claim to fame is that they are the only fair in the United States with a “Big Three”: the Wildcat Roller Coaster, Georgia Mountain Lift and Mega Slide. “Some other fairgrounds have a combination of the two, but we’re the only one in the country that has all three of those attractions,” Missy Miller said.
The fair’s 47-year partnership with their midway provider — The Great James H. Drew Exposition — is responsible for
The North Georgia State Fair is “thrilled” to welcome back one of their most popular shows ever: Sea Lion Splash. Just one of several new ground acts at the fair, the shows are available every day.
NGSF
Monster Trucks will headline a few nights at this year’s Carriage Kia Grandstand Event Series. The North Georgia State Fair invites attendees to the Pit Party before each show to get up close and personal with these big machines.
providing one of the nation’s largest collections of games and rides, according to the fair’s website. The Millers credit Drew Exposition with securing one of the five Wildcat Roller Coasters in the country.
For the first time since World War II, the North Georgia State Fair did not open at Jim R. Miller Park in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The following year, the NGSF drew over 365,000 people, according to to the best estimates. “We always want to do bigger and better, last year was close, but 2021 blew it out of the water,” Missy Miller said.
NGSF
The intention behind the shift from concerts to live events is to draw larger and more family-oriented crowds, according to Missy Miller. She believes that the decision to shift towards nightly events will pay off. The circumstances created by the pandemic generated a lot of enthusiasm in Cobb for an outdoor fair. “We’re hoping for big crowds and we’re hoping it appeals well,” Missy Miller said.
There is truly something for everyone at the North Georgia State Fair. “There’s statistics out there that say only 50% of people ride, but they all come to eat fair food,” Missy Miller said.
dazzle your audience in ways they’ll always remember: Stunning spaces. Impeccable service. And the fabulous menus that deserve all their raves. Inspiring your guests is easier when you can dazzle them at every turn.
770-916-2807 | cobbenergycentre.com
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“I love this place (East Cobb Park, off Roswell Road in Marietta), I love coming here! There’s an evergreen tree that my kids love to climb along the trail that goes through the park. There’s always other kids here, and so they love it. It’s about 10 minutes away or less, so it’s super convenient!”
— Aissa Singh, East Cobb“I like the Marietta Pizza Company as a spot to take my kids at any location. The servers are super friendly and there’s games.” — Brendan Gilligan, Acworth
BE INSPIRED
NATURE’S GENEROSITY WILDLIFE
PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT (NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY); ends October 1.
SHADOWBOX EXHIBIT (BOYD BUILDING)
UPCOMING EVENTS:
December 1-5 Christmas HOLIDAY ARTFEST + Market and Tea Room (Ford Center in Powder Springs)
STUDENT EMERGING ARTIST EXHIBIT
BLACK HISTORY ART EXHIBIT
SCAA MEMBER EXHIBIT
NATIONAL JURIED EXHIBIT
ART CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS
PLACEMAKING PROJECTS
ARTISAN MARKETS
“I’m a new resident of Cobb. I moved here from California a few months ago. I’m still getting used to the humidity...Six Flags White Water is super good for kids. Also, the Battery has some great things for kids to do during Braves games!”
— MarJona Smith-Holieway, Smyrna
Who’s the best of the best? That’s debatable, but numbers don’t lie. You voted. We tallied. Here is the full list of Cobb Life readers’ choices for first place in the 2023 Best of Cobb contest.
Motorcycle Dealer WOW Motorcycles
New Car Dealer Day’s Chevrolet
Oil Change Jett AutoCare
RV Dealer Three Way Campers
Tire Center Smyrna Tire Service
Used Car Dealer Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC
Appetizers/Light Fare 1885 Grill Acworth
Bakery
Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery
BBQ Dave Poe’s BBQ
Breakfast
Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery
Brunch 1885 Grill- Acworth
Burger
BurgerFi Kennesaw
Business Lunch West Cobb Diner
Carry Out 1885 Grill- Acworth
Caterer
Chicken Wings
Adriane’s Delectables Catering
Otter’s Chicken
Chinese Restaurant House of Lu
Curbside Pickup Chick-fil-A
Date Night Restaurant 1885 Grill- Acworth
Dessert
Doughnuts
Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery
Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery
Fine Dining 1885 Grill- Acworth
Food Truck lil bites food truck
Fried Chicken West Cobb Diner
Ice Cream/Frozen Dessert Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - 3795 Due West Rd NW
Indian Food
Italian Food
Taj Mahal Grill
Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen
Taphouse
Virtual Event Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre Virtual Concert Series
Wedding Venue
The Whitlock Inn
Wine List Two Birds Taphouse
Auto Dealer Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC
Auto Dealer Service Department
Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC Service Center
Auto Glass Repair Wyndshyld Auto Glass and Repair of East Cobb
Auto Repair - Independent Ricky Jordan’s Auto Repair
Auto/Body Collision Atlanta Road Body Shop
Boat Repair Viking Boat & Fiberglass Repair Ltd.
Japanese Food Thaicoon & Sushi Bar
Kid-Friendly Restaurant House of Lu
Local Coffee Shop Cool Beans Coffee Roasters
Mediterranean Food It’s Greek to Us
Mexican Food La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant
New Local Restaurant (as of March 2021) Sac Burger
Outdoor Dining
Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen
Overall Local Restaurant 1885 Grill- Acworth
Pizza Pisano’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen
Sandwich Shop Hoboken Cafe on Whitlock
Seafood
Southern Food
1885 Grill- Acworth
West Cobb Diner
Steakhouse 1885 Grill- Acworth
Sushi Thaicoon & Sushi Bar
Thai Food Thaicoon & Sushi Bar
Assisted Living Facility
Barber Shop
Cardiac/Vascular Specialist
Chiropractic Group
Chiropractor
Cosmetic or Plastic Surgeon
Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery Group
Dental Group
Dental Hygienist
Dentist
Dermatologist
Dermatology Group
Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist
Eye Care Group
Facials
Family Physician
Fitness Center/Gym
Gastroenterologist
General Practice Doctor
Hair Extensions
Hair Removal Services
Hair Salon
Hair Stylist
Hearing Center
Hearing Professional
Home Care (non-medical)
Makeup Artist
Massage Therapist
Memory Care Facility
Nail Salon
Nail Technician
Nursing Home
OB/GYN
OB/GYN Group
Occupational Therapist
Optometrist & Ophthalmologist
Orthodontic Group
Orthodontist
Orthopaedic Group
Orthopaedist
Personal Trainer
Pharmacist
Pharmacy Drug Store
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapy Group
Podiatry
Psychologist
Pulmonary Medicine
Spa
Tanning Salon
Therapist
Weight Loss Clinic
Yoga/Barre/Pilates Studio
Birthday Party Venue
College/University Local Professor
Dance Studio
Day Care
Educational Supply Store
Karate/Martial Arts School
Music Instruction
Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric Group
Pediatrician
Performing Arts Program
Pre-School
Private School
Sterling Estates of East Cobb Retirement Community -
Independent and Assisted Living
Lenny’s Hair Salon
Dr. William Brown, MD - Wellstar Health System
Eaton Chiropractic
Dr. Andrew Payne - Lake City Chiropractic
Dr. Keith West Marietta Plastic Surgery
Spa La Paz
Verde Pointe Dental Associates
Christine Grenon - Verde Pointe Dental
Dr. Kirk Kimmerling - Verde Pointe Dental Associates
Dr. Elizabeth Richwine - Marietta Dermatology
Marietta Dermatology & The Skin Cancer Center
Dr. David Parks - Wellstar ENT
Marietta Eye Clinic
Stella Allure
Dr. Ryan Cantwell - Wellstar Medical Group Internal & Family Medicine
Wellstar Health Place
Dr Gregory Nesmith
Dr. Carolyn Smallwood -
Wellstar Internal Medicine White Circle
élon Salon
Stella Allure
élon Salon
Nina John
Marietta Hearing Center
Dr. Amanda Thomas - Marietta Hearing Center
Skylark Home Care of Cobb County
Leslie Crowell- Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique
Kozue Cunningham, Wellstar Health Place
Sterling Estates of West Cobb Retirement Community -
The Grande
Elon Salon
Angelina Sutjuwani Elon Salon
A.G. Rhodes Cobb
Dr. Angel Paas, MD - Kennesaw Kennesaw Gynecology
Kennesaw Gynecology
Rachael Lopez - Pineapple Wellness Therapy Services
Ranan B Stimpson OD
Due West Orthodontics
Dr. Ashley Smith - Due West Orthodontics
Pinnacle Orthopaedics
Dr. R. Brandon Burris - Pinnacle Orthopaedics
Samantha Saunders (Burn Boot Camp)
Ryan Chavers - Thomas Drugs
Thomas Drugs
Amy Gross - Acworth Wellstar Health Park
Venture Physical Therapy and Hand Therapy - West Cobb
Dr. Stephanie Michael
Dr. Mark Roland - Psychological Consultants
Dr. Brion J. Lock
Stella Allure
Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique
Angella Ocheltree - Right Path Hypnosis & Wellness
Bubolo Medical, LLC
gruvnYOGA Soul Center
Altitude Trampoline Park
Emily Berreth - Kennesaw State University
Murray Arts Academy at Mount Paran Christian School
Primrose School at Oregon Park
The School Box
Yongsa Martial Arts
Mount Paran Christian School
Dr. Mike Rossitch - Rossitch Pediatric Dentistry
Wellstar Pediatrics at West Cobb
Dr. Amy Kewin
Mount Paran Christian School
Mount Paran Christian School
Mount Paran Christian School
Public School - Elementary Kemp Elementary School
Public School - High School
Public School - Middle School
Teacher
Trade/Technical School
Youth Sports Organization
Dog Park
Pet Adoption Agency
Pet Groomer
Pet Sitter/Kennel
Pet Supply Store
Pet Training
Veterinarian
Kennesaw Mountain High School
Dickerson Middle School
Angela Coleman - Mount Paran Christian School
Chattahoochee Technical College - Marietta Campus
Powder Springs Youth Baseball
Swift Cantrell Park
Good Mews Animal Foundation
Marietta Doggy Daycare
Marietta Doggy Daycare
Bark Street Petopia
Marietta Doggy Daycare
Dr. Julian Peckich - Marietta Vet Clinic
Veterinary Group Marietta Vet Clinic
Accountant John Dickson, CPA, CVA, CFP - Henssler CPAs & Advisers
Apartment Community Orchard Mill Apartments
Appraiser Hank Manning - Manning Appraisal Service, LLC
Bank
Commercial Real Estate Company
Credit Union
Home Builder
Insurance Agent (Health)
Insurance Agent (Property & Casualty)
Investment Firm
Mortgage Services
Capital City Bank
Crowder Realty, LLC
Credit Union of Georgia
Traton Homes
David Bottoms - The Bottoms Group
Sean Perren - State Farm Insurance Agent
Henssler Financial
Capital City Home Loans
Neighborhood Lee’s Crossing
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Broker
Real Estate Company
Alicia Sipsy Traton Homes
Jaydee Austin Smith -
Ansley Real Estate - Christie’s International
Ansley Atlanta Real Estate I
Christie’s International Real Estate- Marietta
Real Estate Team Conyngham & Wernz -
Retirement Community
Adult Day Care
Attorney - Elder Care
Attorney - Worker’s Compensation
Attorney- Bankruptcy
Attorney- Civil
Attorney- Corporate
Attorney- Criminal
Attorney- Employment & Labor
Attorney- Family/Divorce
Attorney- Family/Divorce
Attorney- Individual
Attorney- Personal Injury
Attorney- Real Estate
Attorney- Tax & Estate
Business Association
Car Wash
Carpet Cleaning
Direct Mail Marketing
Dry Cleaner
Electrician
Facility Cleaning
Florist
Funeral Home
Heating & A/C Service
Home Contractor/Repair/Remodeling
Home Security
Housekeeping Service
Interior Design Firm
Lawn Care
Limo Service
Manufacturer
Meal Prep Services
Moving Services
Nonprofit
Overall Attorney
Overall Law Firm
Pest Control
Photographer
Plumber
Professional Event Organizer
Roofing
Rug Cleaning
Swimming Pools
Travel Agency
Tree Removal
Window/Door Company
Antique Store
Backyard Furnishings
Boutique
Bridal Store
Coins & Collectibles
Consignment Store
Department Store
Fabric Shop
Floor Covering Store
Frame Shop
Furniture
Garden Center
Gift Store
Grocery
Hardware/Home Improvement Store
Home Decor
Jewelry Store
Lawn Equipment
Local Bicycle Store
Men’s Clothing
Shoe Store
Sporting Goods Store
Women’s Clothing
Ansley Real Estate I Christie’s International Real Estate
Sterling Estates of West Cobb Retirement Community -
Independent and Assisted Living
Skylark Adult Day Care of Cobb
Shelley Elder - Crane Elder Law Firm
Johnson & Alday, LLC -
Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation
Ron White
Justin O’Dell - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard
Nick Booth - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard
Kim Keheley Frye - Frye Law Group
Gregory Shenton - Shenton Law
Alyssa Blanchard - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard
Michael Manely- The Manely Firm, P.C.
Leslie O’Neal - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard
Nick Schnyder - Law Firm
Steve Crane - Crane Elder Law Firm
Leslee Hungerford - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford & Blanchard
Kennesaw Business Association
Best Auto Detailing
CitruSolution Carpet Cleaning for West & South Cobb
Money Pages of Cobb County
Whitlock Kleeners
Powers Electrical Solutions
PCT Clean
Faith Designs Florist
Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home & Crematory -
Historic Marietta Chapel & Macland Chapel
Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling
Benjamin E. Burney - Uppercut Homes
LOUD Security Systems
PCT Clean
HouseLift Design
Old Marietta Landscaping
Empress Elite Limousine
FiteBac Companies
Eatin’ Fresh Kennesaw
Charlie’s Angels Movers
MUST Ministries
Justin O’Dell - O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford, Blanchard
O’Dell, O’Neal, Hungerford, Blanchard
All Pro Pest Services, Inc.
Karli Ryan Photography
Superior Plumbing Services
Ricketts Rhodes Events
Georgia Roof Advisors
Jonquil Rug Cleaning Company
AquaRama Pools & Spas
Blue Pineapple Travel
Northcutt Tree Service
Window World of Atlanta
White Rabbit Cottage
White Rabbit Cottage
Pineapple Porch Boutique
Encore Formals and Bridal
Plastic Empire
Urban Renewal Consignment
Target
Fabric & Fringe Warehouse
Fleming Flooring & Design Centers
Smyrna Frame & Art Gallery
White Rabbit Cottage
Pike Nurseries
Pineapple Porch Boutique
Nature’s Pick Market
Vickery Hardware
Pineapple Porch Boutique
Blackwell’s Jewelers Inc
Blades Lawnmower Shop
Rooted Trading Co
Square Threads
Foot Solutions Acworth
Adventure Outdoors
Urban Renewal Consignment
It has been another tremendous year for Wellstar Health System. Our community partnerships, initiatives, and award recognitions illustrate our commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of every person we serve. Please see the following sections for a full review of this year’s recognitions for the Cobb County area.
Community Initiatives:
Literacy Support — Small TALK Program — Thanks to generous donations from the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation and United Way as part of the Literacy and Justice for All initiative, including nearly $1 million this spring, the Small TALKTM literacy development initiative is completing the program implementation in the Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center market. It is creating a model to expand the literacy ecosystem system throughout Wellstar Health System and beyond. With more than 80 percent of brain growth occurring in the first three years of life, early language development is vital for literacy proficiency. Wellstar is the only healthcare partner for the Literacy and Justice for All initiative, focused on bringing support to families and children that spans the entire spectrum of pediatric care. Partnering with the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation, United Way of Greater Atlanta, Atlanta Speech School Rollins Center and Marietta City Schools, Wellstar’s partnership serves as a national model for other health systems and communities.
Goodr Grocery Partnership — In 2019, Wellstar Health System established the Wellstar Center for Health Equity to address social determinants of health and health inequities across the state through collaborative initiatives and programs. The six areas of focus for the center, identified through the Community Health Needs Assessment, include food access, access to primary care, behavioral health, housing, pediatrics and women’s health. And in November 2020, we announced the Mobile Market program in partnership with Goodr, improving access to fresh, nutritious food for communities across Georgia.
The growing philanthropic support this program provided in partnership with Wellstar Center for Health Equity and Wellstar Foundation culminated this year in the Goodr Mobile Grocery
Store, a 26-foot truck stocked with grocery items such as fresh produce, milk, eggs and shelf-stable items — all for free. Feeding more than 6,600 families across Georgia since 2020, Wellstar is proud to be able to help the patients it cares so much for.
“At Wellstar, we truly believe each and every person deserves to live their healthiest life, regardless of their circumstances,” says Julie Teer, SVP, Wellstar Health System, and president, Wellstar Foundation. “That requires sustainable access to fresh, nutritious food, which is something our innovative partnership aims to provide.”
Cancer Survivorship Day — At the start of June, Wellstar Health System sponsored Cancer Survivor’s Day initiatives across the state by raising awareness and celebrating patients as well as their families and caregivers. Events were held at six locations across the Wellstar service area over three days. Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center and Wellstar Cobb Medical Center hosted hundreds of attendees, games, photo opportunities, and more. The oncology service line at Wellstar was dedicated to making the day a beacon of positivity and community building for cancer survivors.
“Cancer affects our lives in dramatic ways,” said Nicole Centers, Executive Director Oncology Nursing Leader at Wellstar Health System. “When one person suffers from cancer, their entire community suffers. These events allow us time to reflect, celebrate and offer hope. We’re all in this together, whether their cancer journey has just begun, or they’ve conquered this diagnosis.” Awards:
Wellstar Kennestone — The construction of Kennestone’s new tower continues to progress and is slated to open in 2026. Over the past year, Wellstar Kennestone has won an array of awards distinguishing it from peers in its class.
Georgia Oglethorpe Sustained Excellence Award
— Wellstar Kennestone succeeded in securing the Sustained Excellence Award focused on Hospitals and Medical Centers that repeatedly set model behavior for care excellence.
The Georgia Oglethorpe Award is the highest award for performance excellence and quality management in the State of
Georgia. The award criteria and assessment process are modeled from the evidence-based National Malcolm Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence that was established by the U.S. Congress in 1987 to raise awareness of quality management. It recognizes U.S. companies that have implemented successful quality management systems. The award is administered by The Sterling Council in the states of Georgia and Florida.
Leapfrog “A” Safety Rating — Wellstar Kennestone was renewed for an “A” safety rating by the Leapfrog group once again this year. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 30 national performance measures from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Leapfrog Hospital Survey and information from other supplemental data sources. Taken together, those performance measures produce a single letter grade representing a hospital’s overall performance in keeping patients safe from preventable harm and medical errors.
A score of “A” represents the highest possible standard of safety, care, and quality to prevent negative patient care outcomes. This is the fourth time in a row that Kennestone has secured an “A” safety rating.
Kennestone’s 6,000th Baby — Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center reached a big milestone in June with a special delivery that marked the 6,000th baby born in the past 12 months. Wellstar Kennestone is among the top three busiest maternity hospitals in metro Atlanta. Congratulations to all the growing families in our community and our Labor and Delivery team and Mother/Baby team for providing exceptional care to so many.
Wellstar Kennestone STS Rating — Wellstar Kennestone has earned the distinguished three-star rating from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons for isolated coronary artery bypass grafting procedures or open-heart surgery. This places Kennestone in the top 20 percent nationwide for heart bypass surgery.
3,500 Endovascular Care Treatments Milestone — Just this year, Wellstar Kennestone’s endovascular care team completed its 3,500th endovascular care treatment, marking a significant milestone in stroke care at the medical center. It is a continuation of the neurological care service lines and partnerships with Mayo Clinic designed to improve health outcomes for all patients suffering from or at risk of a stroke.
At Wellstar, we see more than 680,000 emergency neuro patients each year, each with unique needs and challenges. Management of challenging neurological cases takes the knowhow of physicians from many areas of medicine. Working together, our providers can create a treatment plan that addresses every aspect of a patient’s care experience.
Lown Most Charitable Hospitals — Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center is among the top 25 hospitals in the nation providing significantly more community benefit than they are receiving in tax exemption (Lown Institute’s Hospital Index). Wellstar Kennestone ranked No. 1 in Georgia. Wellstar is the only health system with two hospitals included on the national top 25 list.
Wellstar Cobb — Wellstar Cobb Medical Center continues to be a highly valued community partner dedicated to furthering care outcomes for all the communities it serves. The Level III Trauma Center features an array of tremendous services and has won several recognitions this year.
Georgia Oglethorpe Award —Wellstar Cobb was awarded the Georgia Oglethorpe Award for the first time and recognized for industry-leading results and the whole-person care the hospital provides.
The Georgia Oglethorpe Award is the highest award for performance excellence and quality management in the State of Georgia. The award criteria and assessment process are modeled from the evidence-based National Malcolm Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence established by the U.S. Congress in 1987 to raise awareness of quality management. It recognizes U.S. companies that have implemented successful quality management systems. The award is administered by The Sterling Council in the states of Georgia and Florida.
AACN Beacon Award — Wellstar Cobb’s dedicated nurse service lines continue to receive recognition for their superior work, culminating in the 2023 Beacon recognition. The Wellstar Cobb ICU team carried on a 13-year performance tradition with recognition from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses for patient outcomes, working environments and nursing workforce modules. A combination of quantitative data analysis, qualitative responses, and regional competitive workforce measures determines which nursing care units receive this prestigious recognition.
Bariatric Surgery Accreditation — The Bariatric Surgery Center at Wellstar Cobb was recently recognized and accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program as a Center of Excellence. This recognition is operated by the American College of Surgeons, a nationally recognized group that applies rigorous safety and quality standards to its examination of surgical centers across the country. This recognition represents a high standard of success in surgical performance, care outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
Lown Most Charitable Hospitals — Wellstar Cobb Medical Center is among the top 25 hospitals in the nation providing significantly more community benefit than they are receiving in tax exemption (Lown Institute’s Hospital Index). Wellstar Cobb ranked No. 2 in Georgia and is the only health system with two hospitals included on the national top 25 list.
As the top provider of charity care in the state and one of the top 10 providers nationwide, Wellstar is committed to bringing expert, compassionate health services to those who need them. Last year alone, uncompensated and charity care at Wellstar exceeded $1.2 billion, providing care for at-risk and underserved communities across Georgia.
• Through Wellstar’s Goodr partnership, a 26-foot mobile grocery store truck stocked with items such as fresh produce, milk, eggs and shelf-stable items has fed more than 6,600 families across Georgia since 2020—all for free.
• Both Wellstar Cobb and Wellstar Kennestone have been awarded the Georgia Oglethorpe Award as industry leaders.
• Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center reached a big milestone in June 2023 with a special delivery that marked the 6,000th baby born in the past 12 months.
• As the top provider of charity care in the state and one of the top 10 providers nationwide, Wellstar exceeded $1.2 billion last year in uncompensated and charity care providing care for at-risk and underserved communities across Georgia.
For the fourth year in a row, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (Children’s) has been ranked as the number one pediatric hospital in Georgia. While parents might not know that fact, they do know for a fact that Children’s is where they want to be when their child is suffering with cancer, heart problems, breathing trouble, neurological difficulties or dozens of other health-related issues.
Children’s is also again ranked among the nation’s top pediatric hospitals and on the list of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Children’s Hospitals. The report ranks hospitals for excellence in outcomes, program structure and national reputation in 10 pediatric specialty areas.
With locations in Kennesaw, Smyrna and Marietta, Children’s brings that top-tier healthcare for children to Cobb County. Focusing on care for youngsters, Children’s local services include audiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, general surgery, nephrology, occupational therapy, orthopedics and sports medicine, orthotics and prosthetics, ENT help, physical therapy, pulmonology, rheumatology, sleep, speech language pathology, sports physical therapy, urgent care and radiology services.
Children’s Cardiology in Marietta specializes in caring for children born with congenital heart defects. The pediatric healthcare system has about 1,350 employees who live in Cobb County.
Children’s serves patients from every county in Georgia,
including Cobb County, representing overall more than 1,158,600 total hospital visits last year. In addition, Children’s Emergency Department and Urgent Care Centers handled more than 249,000 ED visits and 176,000 visits to Urgent Care during the same period.
Cobb County locations include Children’s sites at Town Center, 625 Big Shanty Road in Kennesaw; Ivy Walk at 1675 Cumberland Parkway, Suite 305 in Smyrna and the Sibley Heart Center at 355 Tower Road, Suite 204 in Marietta.
In its national ranking among top pediatric hospitals in the U.S. this year, Children’s has four specialties ranked in the top 10 and eight specialties ranked in the top 20. Those specialties and their rankings include: The Cancer Program (No. 8); the Gastroenterology and GI Surgery Program (No. 9); the Orthopaedics Program (No. 10); the Urology Program (No. 10); the Nephrology Program (No. 11); the Cardiology and Heart Surgery Program (No. 12); the Pulmonology and Lung Surgery Program (No. 16) and the Neurology and Neurosurgery Program, (No. 19).
Next fall, Children’s will open the Arthur M. Blank Hospital, the newest hospital within its system. Made possible through a $200 million donation from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, the hospital is a $1.5 billion project, which “will be a huge leap forward in how we care for Georgia’s kids,” according to a statement it released.
The 1.5 million-square-foot hospital is expected to open in the fall of 2024, and is located at the corner of North Druid Hills Road and I-85 in Brookhaven. Children’s states the
new hospital is “designed to take advantage of researchproven healing views of nature” and will include one tower with two patient wings and additional operating rooms, specialty beds and diagnostic equipment to meet the needs of its patients. There will also be space for clinical research, clinical trials and overall patient care. As the only freestanding pediatric healthcare system
in Georgia, Children’s is a not-for-profit organization with a mission to “make kids better today and healthier tomorrow though more than 60 pediatric specialties and programs, top healthcare professionals and leading research and technology.”
It is one of the largest pediatric clinical care providers in the country, managing more than one million patient visits each year at three hospitals, Marcus Autism Center, the Center for Advanced Pediatrics, urgent care centers and neighborhood locations. Children’s has impacted the lives of kids in Georgia, across the U.S. and around the world for more than 100 years. For families who cannot cover the cost of care for their children, Children’s can help. It provided $153 million in unreimbursed clinical care for more than 200,000 children last year. For more information, visit www.choa.org.
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is one of the largest pediatric clinical care providers in the country, managing more than one million patient visits each year
• Children’s saw more than 249,000 visits to the emergency department last year and 176,000 visits to urgent care.
• Children’s Arthur M. Blank Hospital is a $1.5 billion project scheduled to open this fall.
• About 1,350 employees who live in Cobb County work for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
A phone call from your kids. A coworker’s whispered advice just before you get up to present to your boss. The punchline of a joke at the dinner table. What are you missing out on when you have trouble hearing? You’re missing out on more than you think. We’ve noticed the average person waits 7 years before coming to see our hearing instrument specialists at Cobb Hearing Aid Services. That’s a long time, especially since hearing loss has been linked to:
Fatigue • Headaches • Depression
Cognitive Decline • Social Isolation
Ignoring your hearing loss can have a serious effect on your overall health and well-being.
just “hearing specialists”. We understand the impact hearing loss has on the quality of your life. From tests to hearing aids, our experts know that hearing well is crucial to your health and well-being.
The Cobb County community expects and deserves greater patient access to quality medical care. Northside Hospital offers that, with renowned physicians and a broad range of services nearby.
Now open, Northside Medical Cumberland is a threestory, 60,000-squarefoot state-of-theart medical office building. The building opened in early 2023 with imaging and cancer care. More providers are scheduled to open throughout 2023, including cardiovascular, primary care and other specialties.
Located on Atlanta Road at Cumberland Parkway in Smyrna, the building further extends clinical excellence to the residents of the Smyrna — Vinings area and surrounding communities.
“This beautiful facility is an anchor for Northside in a rapidly growing and diversifying area,” said Lee Echols, vice president of marketing and communications for Northside Hospital. “Northside Medical Cumberland is a welcome addition to communities like Vinings, Smyrna and the west Cobb region, bringing improved access to health care for our neighbors in those areas.”
In Marietta, the Northside East Cobb Medical Center offers primary care for wellness and urgent care for less severe
emergencies such as sore throats, ear infections, minor burns, minor sprains and broken bones. No appointments are needed.
Conveniently located on Johnson Ferry Road at Old Towne Parkway, the 100,000-square-foot Northside East Cobb Medical Center houses many medical specialties, including imaging, cardiology, orthopedics, urgent care, rehabilitation, GI, family medicine and OB/GYN.
The Sports Medicine experts at the Northside Hospital
Orthopedic Institute deliver peace of mind through injury prevention, athletic training, physical therapy, sports performance services, orthopedic surgery and diagnostic imaging. Northside serves youth leaguers, weekend warriors, professional athletes and every level in between.
At the imaging center at Northside East Cobb Medical Center, patient safety and comfort are top priorities.
Northside’s clinical expertise and innovation includes 3D digital screening mammography, X-ray, MRI, multi-slice CT, bone densitometry and ultrasound. All exams are performed by a team of specialty-trained technologists and are interpreted by board-certified radiologists. Walk-ins are welcome.
Look for more Northside outpatient imaging centers, cancer centers and network providers in Marietta, Acworth, Austell, the Cobb Galleria and Kennesaw.
Braves partnership
Northside is also proud of its longstanding partnership with the Atlanta Braves. In May, the Braves and Northside cut the ribbon on the new Northside Hospital Nursing Lounge at Truist Park. The lounge is available for mothers and infants who attend Braves games and other events at Truist Park. It’s located between the Left Field Gate and Section 141, providing a quiet space for moms and babies.
The air-conditioned lounge includes comfortable rocking chairs and recliners, changing table, TVs and helpful advice on breastfeeding from lactation experts at Northside Hospital.
“The Northside Nursing Lounge at Truist Park is a place of respite and nourishment for our tiniest fans and their AllStar mothers,” said Danielle Bedasse, Braves vice president of community affairs and executive director of the Atlanta Braves Foundation. “Braves baseball is for everyone, and this renovated space ensures that new moms have a place to care for their little ones while still being here to enjoy the game we all love. Northside Hospital is a true champion of women’s wellness and maternal health care, and we are grateful for their support to make the Nursing Lounge a
welcoming place for our most valuable moms and babies.” Northside also welcomed thousands of cancer survivors to a Braves game in April for the Northside Cancer Survivors Celebration. Those survivors and their families took a celebratory pregame lap around the field and enjoyed a Braves victory from some of the best seats in the house. Follow @NorthsideHosp on social media. For more information visit northside.com.
• Northside cut the ribbon on the new Northside Hospital Nursing Lounge at Truist Park, which is available to mothers and infants who attend Braves games and other events at Truist Park.
• Northside Medical Cumberland opened this year and is a three-story, 60,000-square-foot state-of-the-art medical office building.
• Located on Johnson Ferry Road at Old Towne Parkway, the 100,000-square-foot Northside East Cobb Medical Center houses many medical specialties, including imaging, cardiology, orthopedics, urgent care, rehabilitation, GI, family medicine and OB/GYN.
• The imaging center at Northside East Cobb Medical Center includes 3D digital screening mammography, X-ray, MRI, multislice CT, bone densitometry and ultrasound.
Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center
677 Church St., Marietta
Emergency Department address:
115 Cherry Street, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
The full-service, acute care medical center continues work on its new tower development. With cranes in place in August, the medical center expects to open the new 300,000-square-foot space and 160 beds by 2026. In addition, Wellstar Kennestone is a Level II trauma center and features an open-heart surgery program, women’s center, oncology center, and other medical specialties. Just this past year, Wellstar Kennestone was awarded the prestigious Georgia Oglethorpe Sustained Quality award, among six other quality awards in the past two months. Kennestone and Cobb Medical Centers were the only hospitals in the state to win these awards.
The state-of-the-art emergency department at Wellstar Kennestone delivers quality and compassionate care to every patient, every time and includes a Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center, Level II Trauma Center, Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, Joint Commission Certified Comprehensive Cardiac Center, and 170 street-level parking spaces accessible from Cherokee Street. In addition, the Kennestone ED offers a dedicated pediatric emergency department specifically designed with young patients in mind.
2540 Windy Hill Road, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
This medical center’s services include longterm acute care, a sleep center, outpatient services, ambulatory surgery, specialized services, interventional radiology, and a renovated orthopedics center.
Wellstar Windy Hill Hospital features a specialized center for orthopedics and total joint replacement. The fully renovated space offers the latest technologies, and it features six dedicated operating rooms to provide the highest quality orthopedic care for adult and pediatric patients who require a 23-hour or less hospital stay. The medical center has earned designations and recognitions from the Joint Commission, sleep medicine, pathology, and respiratory care.
3950 Austell Road SW, Austell www.wellstar.org
This full-service, acute care hospital and Level III trauma center offers adult and children’s emergency services, a comprehensive oncology center, cardiology, neurosurgery, labor and delivery, behavioral health, a bariatric care center, an advanced surgery center, and a burn and wound care center. The team at Cobb has won the Beacon Award for Excellence from 2010-2023 and was recently awarded the Georgia Oglethorpe Award from the Sterling Council for performance excellence and quality management.
Wellstar Acworth Health Park
4550 Cobb Parkway N, Acworth www.wellstar.org
Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The facility offers a wide array of outpatient and physician services, including urgent care, family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), pediatrics, imaging, laboratory services, physical therapy, cardiac diagnostics, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, retail pharmacy and a variety of other medical specialties.
Wellstar East Cobb Health Park
3747 Roswell Road, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The facility offers a wide array of outpatient and physician services, including urgent care, family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), pediatrics, imaging, laboratory services, physical therapy, cardiac diagnostics, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, retail pharmacy and a variety of other medical specialties.
Wellstar Vinings Health Park
4441 S. Atlanta Road, Smyrna
www.wellstar.org
Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The facility offers a wide array of outpatient and physician services, including urgent care, family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), pediatrics, otology, rheumatology, imaging, laboratory services, physical therapy, cardiac diagnostics, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, retail pharmacy and a variety of other medical specialties.
Wellstar Pediatric Center
1180 Ernest Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw
www.wellstar.org
Patients benefit from care provided by certified pediatricians, nurses, and trained staff. Pediatric specialties available include cardiology, urology, orthopedics, neurology, and pediatric occupational, speech, and physical therapies. A variety of pediatric imaging services are also available, including MRI, low-dose radiation CT scan, ultrasound, X-ray, electroencephalogram (EEG), outreach lab, and after-hours care.
Wellstar Medical Group and Primary Care
Visit www.wellstar.org/locations or call 470-956-STAR to find a Wellstar physician near you.
Wellstar Urgent Care
Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p .m. Urgent Care provides treatment for routine conditions such as sore throat, stomach pains, and more. Patients 2 years old through adulthood can be treated for a full range of conditions from minor needs to higher acuity issues.
Urgent Care in MariettaSandy Plains Road
3600 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
Urgent Care in Marietta-Delk Road
2890 Delk Road SE, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
Urgent Care in MariettaKennestone
780 Church St. NE, Suite 1110, Marietta
www.wellstar.org
Urgent Care in Kennesaw
3805 Cherokee St., Kennesaw
www.wellstar.org
Urgent Care in Smyrna
4480 North Cooper Lake Road SE, Suite 100, Smyrna
www.wellstar.org
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Town Center
Outpatient Care Center
605 Big Shanty Road NW, Kennesaw www.choa.org
Focusing on care for children, includes audiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, general surgery, nephrology, occupational therapy, orthopedics and sports medicine, orthotics and prosthetics, otolaryngology (ENT), physical therapy, pulmonology, rheumatology, sleep, speechlanguage pathology, sports physical therapy.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Town Center
625 Big Shanty Road NW, Kennesaw www.choa.org
Focusing on care for children, includes urgent care, laboratory and radiology services.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Ivy Walk
1675 Cumberland Parkway, Suite 305, Smyrna www.choa.org
Children’s at Ivy Walk is a department of Scottish Rite hospital specializing in sports physical therapy for children and teens.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Sibley Heart Center Cardiology — Marietta
355 Tower Road, Suite 204, Marietta www.choa.org
Specializes in caring for children born with congenital heart defects.
Acworth Imaging
4791 South Main Street, Suite 140 Acworth 30101 678-701-6868
Atlanta Colon & Rectal Surgery
780 Canton Road NE, Suite 315 Marietta 30060 770-794-7203
Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology
780 Canton Road, Suite 320 Marietta 30060
404-459-1900
Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists
6110 Pine Mountain Road, Suite 102 Kennesaw 30152
678-354-9821
East Cobb Family Medicine
1121 Johnson Ferry Road Building 2, Suite 100 Marietta 30068
770-509-0017
Galleria Imaging
3200 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Suite 120 Atlanta 30339
770-933-1963
Georgia Cancer Specialists Cobb
1668 Mulkey Road, Suite 164 Austell 30106
770-948-3233
Georgia Cancer Specialists Marietta 790 Church St., Suite 335 Marietta 30060
770-590-8311
Marble Mill Imaging 121 Marble Mill Road, Suite 001 Marietta 30060
770-794-6700
Marietta Imaging
780 Canton Road NE, Suite 230 Marietta 30060
770-792-1234
Northside East Cobb Medical Center 4800 Olde Towne Parkway Marietta 30068 northside.com/eastcobb
Northside Medical Cumberland 4298 Atlanta Road SE Smyrna 30080 northside.com/cumberland
Northside Thoracic Surgery
780 Canton Road, Suite 320 Marietta 30060
404-252-9063
Southeastern Neurosurgical Specialists 631 Campbell Hill Street, Suite 100 Marietta 30060
770-422-0444
KAISER PERMANENTE
Cumberland Medical Center 2525 Cumberland Parkway SE Atlanta 30339
404-365-0966
TownPark Comprehensive Medical Center 750 TownPark Lane NW Kennesaw 30144
404-365-0966
West Cobb Center 3640 Tramore Pointe Parkway Austell 30106
404-365-0966
Founded 57 years ago as the Cobb County Parks and Recreation Department with a 1989 name change to Cobb County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department, today it is known simply as Cobb County PARKS. The encompassing county department has seen an exponential growth in many of the youth and adult sports it offers.
Just in the first half of this year, more than 10,000 youth athletes and more than 6,000 adult athletes participated in sports and activities throughout the county. PARKS provides a platform for children and adults of all ages to participate in organized sports and recreational activities.
These leagues offer a range of sports including baseball, softball, football, basketball and more. The stated primary goal for all leagues is to offer skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship among youth athletes in Cobb County.
“Cobb County PARKS prioritizes development of fundamental skills and provides a supportive atmosphere for the youth associations to grow,” said Michael Brantley, director of Cobb County PARKS. “Coaches and volunteers play a crucial role in guiding young athletes, teaching them the rules of their respective sport, and emphasizing fair play.”
For those who are fans of non-traditional sports, Cobb County PARKS offers disc golf, archery, BMX, and radio control, all of which host national tournaments in the county. In April, the Wildhorse Creek BMX track hosted the Dixieland National which consisted of more than 8,000 participants from all across the country.
The Kennesaw Archery Club offers beginner lessons and game activities to all members by certified archers.
“Whether you are just picking up a bow and arrow or have
been shooting for years, each member will have a unique experience being a part of a multiple gold-winning organization,” Brantley said.
The radio control program consists of flying airplanes, helicopters, and large drones at Pitner Road Park where Cobb County PARKS offers a sport aviation complex. Any interested party must complete a waiver, training, and instructional orientation. Once completed, an individual can fly their device over 3 acres of land without disruption.
Cobb County PARKS currently offers eight adult athletic leagues. Those leagues include basketball, flag football, softball, kickball, ultimate Frisbee, cornhole, volleyball, and spikeball. Leagues are offered in the spring, summer, fall, and winter seasons. So far in 2023 the PARKS department has organized and facilitated 32 leagues with more than 400 adult athletic teams. There will be an additional 30-plus leagues and 400-plus teams in the fall and winter seasons this year.
For more information on leagues, contact Brody Whitlock at brody.whitlock@cobbcounty.org or 770-528-8862 or Conor Hoyne at conor.hoyne@cobbcounty.org or 770528-8861. Whitlock oversees the softball leagues at the Al Bishop Complex and all kickball, cornhole, volleyball, and flag football leagues. Hoyne oversees the softball leagues at Terrell Mill Park and Kennworth Park and all basketball, ultimate Frisbee, and spikeball leagues.
Cobb County PARKS also offers free play for individuals who might want to stop by the park and participate in games that are ongoing. Frequently, there are games of kickball, Frisbee, softball, cricket, and flag football going on in a multitude of parks.
“The department aims to foster a positive and encouraging
environment for the Cobb County community,” Brantley added. Cobb PARKS manages 90 properties, of which 78 are developed parks, that encompass more than 6,000 acres. As the primary provider of leisure services and facilities within the county, the department provides a range of athletic, artistic, therapeutic and educational services.
Specialized facilities include the Cobb County Civic Center Complex, Al Bishop and Lost Mountain Softball Complexes, five recreation centers, five community centers, four arts centers, the Mable House-Barnes Amphitheatre, the Cobb Gymnastics Center, six tennis centers and 13 satellite tennis court locations, four indoor aquatic centers and two outdoor seasonal pools, more than 60 miles of trails, two golf courses and the fairgrounds at Jim Miller Park. The department also operates the Miller Park Event Center as a premier rental facility for special events.
Below is a breakdown of the PARKS’ numbers for the fall and winter seasons of 2022 and the spring and summer seasons of 2023.
Baseball- 4,212 Soccer- 5,466
Softball- 1,008 Lacrosse- 303
Football- 732 BMX- 194
Adult Softball: 2022 fall: 143 teams
2023 spring: 150 teams
Adult Kickball: 2022 fall: 22 teams
2023 spring: 23 teams
2023 summer: 26 teams
Adult Flag Football: 2022 fall: 11 teams
2022 winter: 24 teams
2023 spring: 28 teams
Adult Volleyball: 2022 winter: 44 teams
2023 summer: 25 teams
Adult Cornhole: 2022 fall: 16 teams
2023 spring: 16 teams
Adult Basketball: 2022 winter 46 teams
2023 summer 63 teams
Adult Ultimate Frisbee:
2022 fall: 10 teams
2023 spring: 8 teams
2022 summer: 8 teams
Adult Spikeball: 2023 spring: 12 teams
2023 summer: 12 teams
From Mason’s Bridge Loop for beginners to Turtle Back Spur for intermediates to the fierce sounding Whipper Snapper for experts only, the trail system that winds its way through Cobb County offers something for everyone.
With 71.56 miles of paved trails in Cobb, including 12.8 miles of the famous Silver Comet Trail located inside the county, Cobb’s trail system seems tailor-made for hikers, joggers, cyclists and walkers. In addition to those paved trails, the county also has 64.15 miles of natural surface trails.
And even more trails are on the way. The latest news involves The Chattahoochee Riverlands Project, which will create 100 miles of new trails, connecting 19 cities across seven counties along the Chattahoochee River. The pilot project has just begun in Cobb County at Discovery Park.
For 50 years, Trust for Public Land has worked across the U.S. to bring the benefits of parks and nature to the places, people, and communities that need them most. After preserving more than 18,000 acres of land and 80 miles of riverfront for public use, Trust For Public Land and partner organizations worked with local communities to envision a plan for 100 miles of trails and parks along the Chattahoochee River.
During the next decade, the Chattahoochee Riverlands will grow to connect 19 cities across seven counties.
But perhaps the best known trail in the region thus far is the Silver Comet Trail, which begins in Smyrna and travels west through southern parts of the county as it follows the abandoned railroad line once traveled by the Silver Comet passenger train. The Silver Comet train was introduced by Seaboard Air Line Railroad in 1947, and was originally fitted with an observation car and sleep lounge cars. The Silver Comet carried passengers through southern cities such as Atlanta and Birmingham to destinations in the North, like New York, Philadelphia and Washington.
Today, that rail has been converted by Cobb Department of Transportation into a multi-use trail designed for use by everyone. Casual walkers, joggers, hikers, bicyclists, inline skaters and people with disabilities use the trail and enjoy the same sights once seen by the train’s passengers.
Traversing six trestles and bridges, the Silver Comet Trail offers access to Heritage Park, a natural park that includes around 105 acres with 14.3 acres of wetlands. Visitors can follow the 1.7-mile walking trail to the remains of a woolen mill.
The Silver Comet Trail will ultimately extend 57 miles through Cobb, Paulding and Polk counties, continuing through other Georgia counties as it winds its way into the state of Alabama.
Cobb County’s Allatoona Creek Park Trail System currently includes more than 40 miles of multi-use trails. Plans are under way to add five more miles of trails in the next year. The Allatoona Creek Greenway is in early planning phases and will connect Allatoona Creek Park to Price Park.
Trails located in Cobb County Parks
Al Bishop Complex — Natural surface 1.5 mile loop cross country trail about 10 feet wide. It winds through the woods, circles around the ball fields, shares the sidewalk and come back to the parking lot.
Allatoona Creek Park — 32 miles of natural surface trails used for hiking and mountain biking.
Skip Wells Park — Short 0.2 mile natural surface fitness trail at the back of the lower parking lot.
Big Shanty Park — 1.5 mile natural surface loop that starts and ends at the playground.
Cato Park — 1/2 mile natural surface loop around the pond & through the woods. For educational purposes only.
Clarkdale Park — 1/2 mile natural surface loop that starts at the senior center.
East Cobb/Fullers Parks — 1 mile of trails with part being paved and part natural surface. Part of the natural surface trail connects both parks via a bridge over Sewell Creek.
Fair Oaks Park — A short slate surface 0.4 mile trail. Green Meadows Preserve — 3 miles of open meadow and wooded natural surface trails.
Harrison Park — Several natural surface trails totaling 1 mile.
Heritage Park — 1.7 mile trail of natural surface, boardwalk and graveled easement that travels from the parking lot off Nickajack and Fontaine Roads to The Silver Comet Trail.
Hurt Road Park — Paved 1/4 mile walking path around the baseball fields.
Kennworth Park — Soft, natural surface .4 mile fitness trail that starts at the ball field and wraps around the back of the senior center.
Larry Bell Park — Paved 1/4 mile walking track behind the Gymnastics Center.
Lost Mountain Park — 1.2 mile slate trail wraps around both softball complexes. A 3.8 mile wooded natural surface trail that use the woods around the pond and softball hubs. The trails are used for hiking and mountain biking.
Mabry Park — 1.2 mile slate trails through nature area. Mud Creek Park — 1/2 mile concrete track around the soccer fields.
Price Park — Several natural surface trails totaling 1 mile through the meadow and woods and along the creek.
Rhyne Park — Short 0.2 mile natural surface fitness trail.
Silver Comet Trail — Paved 12.8 mile trail with additional 1/4 mile equestrian trail at the Florence Road Trailhead. Stout Park — 1.0 mile natural surface (unmarked) equestrian trails throughout the property.
Sweat Mountain Park — Multiple natural surface trails totaling 0.4 miles running through the property.
Wright Environmental Education Center — Two natural surface, wooded, loop trails that total 0.6 miles. For educational purposed only.
The Chattahoochee River is full of life year-round, but in peak summertime, onlookers may notice packs of fluorescent tubes engulfing the river’s landscape.
That’s because floating down the Chattahoochee, or as locals say, “Shootin’ the ‘Hooch,” is a popular rite of passage for Atlantans. It’s an easy, cost-friendly way to escape the city, decompress and cool down during Georgia’s scorching summer.
Those who make a day trip to the Chattahoochee can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including tubing, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, fishing and more throughout Cobb County and metro Atlanta.
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area offers cool currents, quiet forests and fresh air to thousands of visitors every year. It was created in 1978 and consists of 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River, 15 park units and over 80 miles of hiking trails.
The National Recreation Area is open for do-it-yourself rafting, canoeing, kayaking and boating year-round; all attendees need is a life vest and floating device. Parking is $5 at any of the river access points.
River-goers can also find commercial rental services in the parks to safely float, relax and enjoy the river’s amenities at a fair price.
Nantahala Outdoor Center is the national park’s only on-site outfitter with locations in Marietta, Sandy Springs and Roswell — all river trips begin and end at NOC’s outposts inside the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
NOC offers seasonal river trips and rentals for tubing, rafting, kayaking, biking and stand-up paddle boarding.
William Smith, river manager of NOC’s metro location, said business peaks in June and July with prime floating season lasting until Labor Day.
“Most people are looking to hit the river mid-day in July because it’s scorching hot and the water is a perfect way to cool down,” Smith said.
Smith recommends starting a trip down the Chattahoochee as early as noon, so river-goers can have all day to float.
Roswell resident Hallie Victor, 26, is a seasoned tuber who shoots the ‘Hooch with friends every summer. Victor said her river crew buys a few four-person rafts off Amazon and connects them for one big raft party.
“I love shooting the ‘Hooch,” Victor said. “It’s a way to get out on the water with all your best friends, have drinks, listen to music and get a tan.”
River-goers should bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, sunglasses and waterproof shoes to protect their feet. Smith added the importance of packing bug spray to ward off mosquitoes.
Boozing while tubing is legal on the Chattahoochee, under a Georgia law that was signed by Gov. Nathan Deal in July 2016. Coolers are also permitted on the river excursion — Nantahala Outdoor Center offer cooler tubes for under $30 to easily access and enjoy an ice-cold brew while floating. Glass bottles and Styrofoam containers are not allowed on the river.
“I just like sipping and floating,” Sandy Springs local Annalise Enloe said. “But really it’s just a great opportunity to get away from my phone for a couple of hours and enjoy nature with my friends.”
While floating down the Chattahoochee has its perks, it can be dangerous if not enjoyed responsibly.
Diving Rock Beach near Sandy Point Park features a 25-foot rock formation overlooking the river that attracts thousands
of visitors every year. However, park service officials warn river-goers to proceed with extreme caution or refrain from jumping off the rock altogether — multiple deaths by drowning and serious injuries have been reported in the past few years.
Smith said river-goers should also check the river flow rate and water quality by visiting the National Park Service’s website the morning before the trip.
For more information on Chattahoochee River amenities, activities and events, visit nps.gov.
Morgan Falls Dam to Johnson Ferry: Approximately 2 miles, canoe float time 30 minutes to one hour; raft float time 1-2 hours.
Johnson Ferry to Powers Island: Approximately 3.5 miles, canoe float time 1-3 hours; raft float time 2-4 hours.
Powers Island to Paces Mill: Approximately 3 miles, canoe float time 1-2 hours; raft float time 1-3 hours.
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A - ASYMMETRY
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Nantahala Outdoor Center: NOC’s outposts in Marietta, Sandy Springs and Roswell offer tube, kayak, raft, bike rentals and more for families and groups to enjoy a day at the river. For pricing, more information or to book your next trip visit noc.com/atlanta-ga-region/
High Country Paddle Shack: River-goers can head over to High Country Paddle Shack at 200 Morgan Falls in Sandy Springs to rent boats, canoes, kayaks, rafts, stand up paddle boards and tubes. The river is just steps away from the rental shop. To book online, visit highcountryoutfitters.com
Chattahoochee River Tubing: Located at 4349 Abbotts Bridge Road in Duluth, Chattahoochee River Tubing offers tube and kayak rentals, which range from $25 to $50, and include a life jacket and shuttle service. Estimated trip time is 3-4 hours depending on river flow. Book your trip at rivertubing.com.
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Acworth Community Center
Acworth Community Center
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
4361 Cherokee Street, Acworth
4361 Cherokee Street, Acworth
Acworth Sports Complex
Acworth Sports Complex
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
4000 S. Main Street, Acworth
4000 S. Main Street, Acworth
Adams Park
Adams Park
770-422-9741
770-422-9741
2600 Park Drive, Kennesaw
2600 Park Drive, Kennesaw
A.L. Burruss Nature Park
A.L. Burruss Nature Park
770-794-5601
770-794-5601
75 South Cobb Drive, Marietta
75 South Cobb Drive, Marietta
Al Bishop Softball Complex
Al Bishop Softball Complex
770-528-8860
770-528-8860
1082 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta
1082 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta
Aline Wolfe Adult Rec. Center
Aline Wolfe Adult Rec. Center
678-631-5541
678-631-5541
884 Church Street, Smyrna
884 Church Street, Smyrna
Allatoona Creek Park
Allatoona Creek Park
770-528-8825
770-528-8825
5690 Old Stilesboro Rd, Acworth
5690 Old Stilesboro Rd, Acworth
Arboretum & Pond (Smyrna)
Arboretum & Pond (Smyrna)
770-431-2842
770-431-2842
1250 Powder Springs St., Smyrna
1250 Powder Springs St., Smyrna
Argo Road Park
Argo Road Park
678-631-5394
678-631-5394
4885 Argo Road, Smyrna
4885 Argo Road, Smyrna
Askew Park
Askew Park
770-431-2842
770-431-2842
1048 Pinehurst Drive, Smyrna
1048 Pinehurst Drive, Smyrna
Atherton Square Park
Atherton Square Park
770-794-5601
770-794-5601
4 Depot Street, Marietta
4 Depot Street, Marietta
Aviation Baseball/Softball Complex
Aviation Baseball/Softball Complex
404-281-2285
404-281-2285
455 Aviation Road, Marietta
455 Aviation Road, Marietta
Aviation Park
Aviation Park
770-528-8800
770-528-8800
2659 Barrett Lakes Blvd., Kennesaw
2659 Barrett Lakes Blvd., Kennesaw
Baker Plantation
Baker Plantation
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
4790 Baker Plantation Dr, Acworth
4790 Baker Plantation Dr, Acworth
Bell Bomber Park
Bell Bomber Park
770-794-5601
770-794-5601
600 S. Fairground St., Marietta
600 S. Fairground St., Marietta
Ben Robertson Community Center
Ben Robertson Community Center
770-422-714
770-422-714
2753 Watts Dr, Kennesaw
2753 Watts Dr, Kennesaw
Big Shanty Park & The Art Station
Big Shanty Park & The Art Station
770-528-8890
770-528-8890
2050 Kennesaw Due West Rd, Kennesaw
2050 Kennesaw Due West Rd, Kennesaw
Bells Ferry Trailhead / Noonday Creek Trail - Passive Trails
Bells Ferry Trailhead / Noonday Creek Trail - Passive Trails
2995 Bells Ferry Road, Marietta
2995 Bells Ferry Road, Marietta
Birney Street Park
Birney Street Park
770-794-5601
770-794-5601
473 Birney Street, Marietta
473 Birney Street, Marietta
Bob Callan Trail / Rottenwood Creek - Passive Trails
Bob Callan Trail / Rottenwood Creek - Passive Trails
Akers Mill Road, Atlanta
Akers Mill Road, Atlanta
Brawner Hall
Brawner Hall
678-631-5545
678-631-5545
3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna
3180 Atlanta Road, Smyrna
Brinkley Park
Brinkley Park
678-631-5393
678-631-5393
1270 Hunter Street, Smyrna
1270 Hunter Street, Smyrna
Brown Park
Brown Park
770-794-5601
770-794-5601
358 West Atlanta Street, Marietta
358 West Atlanta Street, Marietta
Burger Park Dog Park
Burger Park Dog Park
770-431-2842
770-431-2842
680 Glendale Place, Smyrna
680 Glendale Place, Smyrna
Burrell Field
Burrell Field
770-425-6905
770-425-6905
3076 Moon Station Road, Kennesaw
3076 Moon Station Road, Kennesaw
Butler Ridge Park
Butler Ridge Park
770-422-9714
770-422-9714
4020 Wellcrest Drive, Kennesaw
4020 Wellcrest Drive, Kennesaw
Butner Park
Butner Park
770-943-1666
770-943-1666
end of Butner St., Powder Springs
end of Butner St., Powder Springs
Cato Park
Cato Park
770-528-8829
770-528-8829
5286 Austell Road Austell
5286 Austell Road
Austell
Chuck Camp Park
Chuck Camp Park
678-631-5393
678-631-5393
2270 Benson Poole Road, Smyrna
2270 Benson Poole Road, Smyrna
Church Street Park
Church Street Park
678-631-5541
678-631-5541
884 Church Street, Smyrna
884 Church Street, Smyrna
Central Aquatic Center
Central Aquatic Center
770-528-8465
770-528-8465
520 Fairground Street, Marietta
520 Fairground Street, Marietta
City Club
City Club
770-528-4653
770-528-4653
510 Powder Springs St., Marietta
510 Powder Springs St., Marietta
City Hall - Big Shanty Spring
City Hall - Big Shanty Spring
770-422-9714
770-422-9714
2529 J.O. Stephenson Ave. NW
Kennesaw
2529 J.O. Stephenson Ave. NW Kennesaw
Civic Center
Civic Center
770-528-8450
770-528-8450
548 South Marietta Pkwy., Marietta
548 South Marietta Pkwy., Marietta
Clarkdale Park
Clarkdale Park
770-528-8890
770-528-8890
4905 Austell-Powder Springs Rd., Austell
4905 Austell-Powder Springs Rd., Austell
Cobb Park
Cobb Park
770-431-2847
770-431-2847
950 Powder Springs St., Smyrna
950 Powder Springs St., Smyrna
Cobblestone Golf Course
Cobblestone Golf Course
770-917-5152
770-917-5152
4200 Nance Road, Acworth
4200 Nance Road, Acworth
Collar Park
Collar Park
770-944-4309
770-944-4309
2625 Joe Jerkins Blvd., Austell
2625 Joe Jerkins Blvd., Austell
Commemorative Park
Commemorative Park
770-422-9714
770-422-9714
2870 N. Main Street, Kennesaw
2870 N. Main Street, Kennesaw
Concord Road Linear Park
Concord Road Linear Park
770-431-2842
770-431-2842
1061 Concord Road, Smyrna
1061 Concord Road, Smyrna
Creatwood Park
Creatwood Park
404-431-2842
404-431-2842
3465 Creatwood Trail, Smyrna
3465 Creatwood Trail, Smyrna
Custer Park Soccer Complex
Custer Park Soccer Complex
770-997-9551
770-997-9551
600 Kenneth E Marcus Way, Marietta
600 Kenneth E Marcus Way, Marietta
Custer Park Sports & Fitness Center
Custer Park Sports & Fitness Center
770-794-5630
770-794-5630
545 Kennesaw E Marcus Way, Marietta
545 Kennesaw E Marcus Way, Marietta
Dallas Landing Park
Dallas Landing Park
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
5120 Allatoona Dr., Acworth
5120 Allatoona Dr., Acworth
Depot Park
Depot Park
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
4794 South Main Street, Acworth
4794 South Main Street, Acworth
Depot Park
Depot Park
770-422-9714
770-422-9714
2828 Cherokee Street, Kennesaw
2828 Cherokee Street, Kennesaw
Deerfield Park
Deerfield Park
770-422-9714
770-422-9714
2401 Deerfield Drive, Kennesaw
2401 Deerfield Drive, Kennesaw
Discovery Park at the River Line
Discovery Park at the River Line
770-528-8800
770-528-8800
6653 Discovery Blvd., Mableton
6653 Discovery Blvd., Mableton
Durham Park
Durham Park
678-631-5394
678-631-5394
1554 Spring St., Smyrna
1554 Spring St., Smyrna
East Cobb Park
East Cobb Park
770-591-3160
770-591-3160
3322 Roswell Road, Marietta
3322 Roswell Road, Marietta
East Lakeshore Park
East Lakeshore Park
770-917-1234
770-917-1234
4425 Beach Street, Acworth
4425 Beach Street, Acworth
Elizabeth Porter Park
Elizabeth Porter Park
770-794-5637
770-794-5637
370 Montgomery St., Marietta
370 Montgomery St., Marietta
Fair Oaks Park
Fair Oaks Park
770-528-8839
770-528-8839
1460 W. Booth Rd., Marietta
1460 W. Booth Rd., Marietta
Fairfax Park
770-422-9714
2253 Bayswater Drive, Kennesaw
Flournoy Park
770-794-5601
179 Roswell Street, Marietta
Fox Creek Golf Course
770-435-1000
1501 Windy Hill Road, Smyrna
Franklin Gateway Sports Complex
770-794-5056
1040 Franklin Gateway, Marietta
Frana Brown Park
770-917-1234
4901 North Main Street, Acworth
Fullers Park
770-591-3160
3499 Robinson Rd., Marietta
Gantt Park
770-794-5601
128 Maple Avenue, Marietta
Gateway Park
770-422-9714
2740 S. Main Street
Kennesaw
GB Williams Park
770-431-2842
1313 Roswell Street, Smyrna
George Beavers Park
770-944-4300
3011 Broad Street
Austell
Glover Park
770-794-5601
50 N. Park Square NE, Marietta
Green Meadows Preserve
770-528-8819
3780 Dallas Highway, Marietta
Gymnastics Center
770-528-8475
542 Fairground Street, Marietta
Harrison Park
770-591-3160
2653 Shallowford Rd., Marietta
Henry Memorial Park
770-794-5601
81 Reynolds St, Marietta
Heritage Park
770-528-8890
60 Fontaine Road, Mableton
Highland Park
770-431-2842
3209 Highland Dr., Smyrna
Hill Park
770-917-1234
4426 Cherokee Street, Acworth Hill Park
770-794-5601 144 Lemon Street, Marietta
Hopkins Disc Golf Course
770-943-1666
350 Hopkins Disc Road, Powder Springs
Hopkins Pedestrain Park
770-943-1666
3675 Hopkins Road, Powder Springs
Hubert Park
770-591-3160
3412 Cobb Pkwy., Acworth
Hugh L. Grogan Community Center
770-794-5425
510 Lawrence St., Marietta
Hurt Road Park
770-528-8890
990 Hurt Road, Marietta
Hyde Farm
770-528-8819
721 Hyde Road, Marietta
Jim R. Miller Park
770-528-8875
2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta home of the N. GA State Fair, Sept. Joanne Woodward Park
770-794-5601
195 Blackwell Lane, Marietta
Joe Mack Wilson Park
770-794-5601
190 Roswell Street, Marietta
John Street Park
5966 John Street, Austell
Jonquil Park
770-421-2842
2411 Spring Rd., Smyrna
Kennesaw Mtn. National Battlefield
770-421-4656
900 Kennesaw Mtn. Dr., Marietta managed by Nat’l Park Service
Kennesaw Recreation Center
678-385-0165
2737 Watts Drive Kennesaw
Kennesaw Station Park
770-422-9714
3506 Lee Court, Kennesaw
Kennworth Park
770-528-8890
3900 S. Main St., Acworth
Kirby Park
770-794-5601
426 Frasier Street, Marietta
Jennie T. Anderson Theatre
770-528-8490
548 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta
Lake Acworth Beach at Cauble Park
770-917-1234
4425 Beach St., Acworth
Lake Park
770-794-5601
311 Lake Drive, Marietta
Lake Court Park
770-917-1234
4425 Beach Street, Acworth
Lake Court Park
678-631-5395
3500 Lake Drive, Smyrna
Lancer Park
770-943-1666
3225 Lancer Dr., Powder Springs
Larry Bell Park
770-528-8810
592 Fairground St., Marietta
Laurel Park
770-919-8602
151 Manning Rd., Marietta
Legacy Golf Links/Fox Creek Golf Club
770-434-6331
1825 Windy Hill Road, Smyrna
Legion Park at Sweetwater Creek
770-944-4310
5514 Austell-Powder Springs Rd., Austell
Leone Hall Price Park
770-528-8890
4715 Stilesboro Rd., Kennesaw
Lewis Park
770-794-5601
475 Campbell Hill St., Marietta
Lions Park
770-591-3160
620 Lions Club Dr., Mableton
Logan Farm Park
770-917-1234
4762 Logan Rd., Acworth
Lost Mountain Park
770-528-8890
4845 Dallas Highway Powder Springs
Louise Suggs Memorial Park
6145 Spring Street, Austell
18-hole, 36-basket disc golf
Mable House Art Center
770-819-6735
5239 Floyd Road
Mableton
Mabry Park
770-591-3160
4470 Wesley Chapel Rd., Marietta
Marietta Golf Center
770-977-1997
1701 Gresham Road, Marietta
Mableton Town Square Park
770-528-8800
5220 Church Street, Mableton
McCollum Park
770-422-9714
3602 McCollum Pkwy., Kennesaw
Merritt Park
770-794-5601
501 Wallace Rd., Marietta
Milford Park
770-528-8890
3025 Hicks Rd., Marietta
Monarch Park
770-794-5601
246 Kennesaw Ave., Marietta
Mount Bethel Park
770-591-3160
477 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta
Mountain View Aquatic Center
(770) 509-4925
2650 Gordy Parkway, Marietta
Mud Creek Soccer Complex
770-528-8816
5600 Ernest Barrett Pkwy, Marietta
Newberry Park
770-917-1234
5321 Toccoa Dr., Acworth
North Cooper Lake
Mountain Bike Park
678-631-5395
4201 North Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna
Northeast Cobb Community Center
770-509-2737
3100 Jaycee Drive, Marietta
Nickajack Park
770-528-8890
5500 Nickajack Road, Mableton
Noonday Park
770-591-3160
489 Hawkins Store Rd, Kennesaw
Oakdale Park
770-240-2001
4160 Atlanta Road, Smyrna
Old Clarkdale Park
770-528-8800
5195 Clark Street
Austell
Oregon Park, Disc Golf, Escape Room
770-528-8890
145 Old Hamilton Rd., Marietta
Overlook Park
770-917-1234
4280 Lake Acworth Dr., Acworth
Perry Parham Park
770-528-8890
550 Fairground St., Marietta
Pine Street Park
770-944-4310
6040 Pine St., Austell
Pitner Road Park
770-528-8890
2302 Pitner Rd., Acworth
Pitner Road Dog Park
770-528-8890
2450 Pitner Rd., Acworth
Powder Springs Park
770-528-8890
3899 Brownsville Rd., Powder Springs
Proctor Landing Park
770-917-1234
5260 Proctor Landing Rd., Acworth
Reed House
678-631-5545
3080 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna
Rhyne Park
770-528-8890
4145 King Springs Rd., Smyrna
Ridge Forest Fitness Trail
678-631-5394
3401 Ridge Road, Smyrna
River Line Park
678-631-5395
6043 Oakdale Rd., Mableton
Riverview Park
678-631-5395
6275 Rivewview Rd., Smyrna
Ron Anderson Recreation Center
770-631-5394
3820 Macedonia Rd., Powder Springs
Ron H. Francis Park
770-794-5601
135 Gramling St., Marietta
Rose Garden Park
678-631-5395
1870 Teasley Road, Smyrna
Sandy Plains Park
770-591-3160
2977 Gordy Pkwy., Marietta
Seven Springs Water Park
770-528-4036
3820 Macedonia Rd., Powder Springs
Sewell Park
770-591-3160
2055 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta
Shaw Park
770-591-3160
900 Shaw Park Rd., Marietta
Shillings Park
770-422-9714
2869 Shillings Chase Court, Kennesaw
Shoupade Park
678-431-2842
4770 Oakdale Rd., Smyrna
Silver Comet Trail Depot
770-819-3279
4342 Floyd Road, Mableton
Silver Comet Linear Park
770-943-1666
1301 Richard D. Sailors Pkwy, Powder Springs
Skip Wells Park
770-591-3160
2334 Bells Ferry Rd, Marietta
Smyrna Community Center
770-431-2842
1250 Powder Springs St., Smyrna
South Cobb Aquatic Center
770-819-3240
875 Riverside Pkwy., Austell
South Shore Park
770-917-4555
4555 Ragsdale Rd., Acworth Spring Road Linear Park
770-431-2842
Spring Road, Smyrna
Stout Park
770-528-8829
5315 Brownsville Road, Powder Springs
Sweat Mountain Park
770-591-3160
4346 Steinhauer Rd., Marietta
Sweetwater Park
770-528-8890
2447 Clay Rd., Austell
Swift-Cantrell Park
770-422-9714
3140 Old 41 Hwy, Kennesaw
Also offering 1 skate park & 1 dog park
Tara Park
770-422-9714
2095 Twelve Oaks Circle, Kennesaw
Taylor-Brawner Park
678-631-5545
3180 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna
Taylor Brawner House
678-631-5545
3182 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna
Terrell Mill Park
770-591-3160
480 Terrell Mill Rd., Marietta
Terry Lane Park
770-422-9714
3530 Terry Lane, Kennesaw
The Art Place - Mountain View
770-509-2700
3330 Sandy Plains Rd. Marietta
Thompson Park
770-819-3215
555 Nickajack Rd., Mableton
Thurman Springs Park & Hardy Family
Automotive Amphitheater
770-943-1666
4485 Pineview Dr., Powder Springs
Tolleson Park
678-631-5393
3515 McCauley Rd., Smyrna
Tolleson Park Day Room
770-431-2843
3515 McCauley Rd., Smyrna
Tramore Park
2150 East-West Conn., Austell
Trolley Line Park
4700 North Church Lane, Smyrna
Tumlin Park at Hickory Hills
770-794-5601
400 Chestnut Hill Rd., Marietta
Twentieth Century Veterans Memorial
770-431-2842
2800 King Street, Smyrna
Veteran’s Memorial Park
770-944-4300
2651 Veteran’s Memorial Hwy. Austell
Victory Park
770-794-5601
823 S. Park Dr., Marietta
Village Green Park
678-631-5395
1250 Powder Springs St. SE, Smyrna
Wallace Park
770-528-8839
6289 Pisgah Rd., Mableton
Washington Park
770-944-4309
2981 Landers St., Austell
Ward Park
770-431-2842
2602 Ward Park, Smyrna
Ward Recreation Center
770-528-8885
4845 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs
West Cobb Aquatic Center
770-222-6700
3675 Macland Rd., Powder Springs
West Dixie Park
770-794-5601
125 West Dixie Ave., Marietta
Whitaker Park
770-794-5601
1540 Holcomb Lake Rd., Marietta
Whitfield Park
770-431-2842
1519 Whitfield St., Smyrna
Wildwood Park
770-794-5601
1050 Barclay Cir., Marietta
Wild Horse Creek Park
770-528-8890
3820 Macedonia Rd., Powder Springs
Winchester Forest Park
770-422-9714
2126 Lindley Lane, Kennesaw
Windy Hill Community Center
770-528-2562
1885 Roswell St., Smyrna
Woods Park
770-794-5601
147 Hayes St., Marietta
Wrens Ridge Park
770-422-9714
4040 Wrens Way, Kennesaw
Wright Environmental Education Center
770-528-8825
2661 John Ferry Rd., Marietta
ACWORTH — Seniors at the North Cobb Senior Center participated in activities including billiards, ping pong, and Zumba on a late summer day.
Zumba instructor Joyce Stanley led a group of about 20 seniors as they danced on a hardwood floor. She has been teaching Zumba since 2014.
“I like helping people to feel strong, and feel more confident about themselves, and especially working with the older people, because most people expect that as you get old you get weaker, but that’s not necessarily the case,” she said. “It depends on your thinking, and what you do to help yourself to improve your movements and balance.”
In another room down the hall, other seniors relaxed while they waited for a seminar to start. Harold Bailey of Acworth, sitting across the table from Marlene Jenkins of
Kennesaw, said he visits the senior center around twice a week, but used to come more often. He comes mostly to socialize and partly for the card games, he said.
“This afternoon, I’m going to play spades,” Bailey said. “After COVID, things changed, and (the center) is trying to get settled again into a routine. Now they mostly have seminars.”
Cobb County’s population is aging, with the number of seniors rising by 78% since 2015, according to the county.
Eight years ago, 171,433 people age 55 or older lived in Cobb, making up 23% of the population, according to U.S. Census data. Now, that number is 220,841 — roughly 29% of the population.
Johnny Barfield, a spokesman for Cobb Senior Services, estimates that the number will continue to climb, projecting it to hit 251,707 in 2025, and 288,181 in 2030.
“It’s definitely going up — very much so,” Barfield said.
“I think the whole country is aging.”
Cobb is following a national trend, as the older population in the United States between 2010 and 2020 grew at the fastest rate in 120 years, according to census data.
Census data shows seniors grew as a percentage of the population nationally from around 5% in 1920 to almost 17% in 2020. The percentage had been gradually rising over the past century, until it leveled off at around 12% between 1990 and 2010, and then jumped dramatically after 2010. This spike was driven mostly by aging Baby Boomers who were born between 1946 and 1964.
Barfield counts seniors as those who are 55 or over, because that is the age at which they can take advantage of the county’s senior centers and activities. The census defines seniors as being 65 or older.
In order to keep up with Cobb’s aging population, Cobb Senior Services coordinates services such as Meals on Wheels, transportation to doctor appointments and grocery stores, as well as activities at the senior centers that include yoga, tai chi, pickleball, Zumba, cooking classes, art, photography, health and wellness classes, billiards, and trips.
Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell said she does not believe the increased number of seniors has adversely affected county budgeting for senior services.
“A lot of our programs are already in place and are sustainable year after year, whether it’s from the county budget or funding for other sources,” Birrell said.
Cobb County has seven senior centers, three day centers, 24 assisted living communities and 11 hospice care centers.
Senior Services coordinates nutrition services like Meals On Wheels, transportation for necessary trips like doctor’s appointments and grocery store visits, and home services such as light housekeeping and caregiver support, Barfield said. Activities and services can be found on the Senior Services website at cobbcounty.org/senior-services.
Freeman Poole Senior Center
4025 South Hurt Road
Smyrna, GA 30082 | 770-801-3400
North Cobb Senior Center
3900 South Main St.
(inside Kennworth Park)
Acworth, GA 30101 | 770-975-7740
Senior Wellness Center
1150 Powder Springs St.
Marietta, GA 30064 | 770-528-5355
Tim D. Lee Senior Center
3332 Sandy Plains Road
Marietta, GA 30066 | 770-509-4900
West Cobb Senior Center
4915 Dallas Highway
Powder Springs, GA 30127 | 770-528-8200
Note: Austell and Marietta Senior Neighborhood Centers are not drop-in facilities and are only for Cobb residents age 60 and older. One must have an assessment with the center managers before attending as these are grantfunded centers. These centers also offer meetings with a case manager to evaluate needs for services, explore potential resources and help seek other funding options, as well as offer home delivered meals and transportation for Cobb’s older population who have a demonstrated need.
Austell Senior Neighborhood Center
4915 Austell-Powder Springs Road
(inside Clarkdale Park)
Austell, GA 30106 | 770-819-3200
Marietta Senior Neighborhood Center
1150 Powder Springs St.
Marietta, GA 30064 | 770-528-5355
ADULT DAY CENTERS:
Green Park Senior Care Home
3861 Jiles Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | (877) 318-0055
ADULT DAY HEALTH SERVICES:
Serenity Adult Day Care Center
4279 Austell Powder Springs Rd
Powder Springs, GA 30127
678-324-1237 | serenityadultdaycare.com
Skylark Adult Day Center of Cobb
120 Interstate North Parkway, Suite 420 Atlanta, GA 30339 | 404 566-6384
skylarkseniorcare.com/marietta-adult-day-care/
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES:
Legacy Ridge at Marietta
840 Lecroy Drive Marietta, GA 30068 | 770-971-0307
atlasseniorliving.com/Legacy-ridge-marietta
Arbor Terrace of Burnt Hickory
920 Burnt Hickory Road
Marietta, GA 30064 | 770-691-0050
Arborcompany.com
Arbor Terrace of East Cobb
886 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30068 | 770-629-0059
Arborcompany.com
Brickmont of Acworth
3114 Cobb Parkway NW
Acworth, GA 30101 | 770-886-4074
Brickmont.com
Brickmont of West Cobb
2782 Dallas Highway SW
Marietta, GA 30064 | (770) 685-3010
Brickmont.com
Cadence Marietta
1345 Milford Church Road
Marietta, GA 30008 | (678) 309-1220
Cadencemarietta.com
Canterfield of Kennesaw
4381 Bells Ferry
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | 470-308-5260
Canterfieldofkennesaw.com
Celebration Village Acworth
4460 Celebration Boulevard
Acworth, GA 30101 | (678) 540-4978
www.agewellliving.com/senior-living/ga/acworth/ celebration-village-acworth/
Delmar Gardens of Smyrna
404 King Springs Village Parkway
Smyrna, GA 30082 | 770-432-4444
Delmargardens.com
Dogwood Forest of Acworth
4461 South Main Street
Acworth, GA 30101 | (678) 831-4999
Dogwoodforest.com
The Georgian Lakeside
1070 Hardscrabble Road
Roswell, GA 30075 | 678-367-4744
cadencesl.com/communities/the-georgian-lakeside/ Greenwood Place
1160 Whitlock Dr.
Marietta, GA 30064 | (678) 841-8461
Enlivant.com
Kennesaw Place
2800 Jiles Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | (470) 348-8365
Enlivant.com
Legacy Ridge at Brookstone
5235 Stilesboro Road
Kennesaw, GA 30152 | (770) 423-0800
atlasseniorliving.com/legacy-ridge-brookstone/ Legacy Ridge at Sandy Plains
3039 Sandy Plains Road
Marietta, GA 30066 | (770) 973-7303
atlasseniorliving.com/legacy-ridge-sandy-plains/ Northstar Place
3250 Quick Water Landing
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | (678) 498-5491
Enlivant.com
Sterling Estates — East Cobb
4220 Lower Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30068 | 678-946-4454
Sterlingestateseastcobb.com
Sterling Estates — West Cobb
3165 Dallas Highway
Marietta, GA 30064 | (770) 255-7000
Sterlingestateswestcobb.com
Sunrise of East Cobb
1551 Johnson Ferry Road NE
Marietta, GA 30062 | (404) 476-3779
Sunriseseniorliving.com
The Cambridge Assisted Living and Memory Care 4838 South Cobb Drive
Smyrna, GA 30080 | 678-903-0339 smyrnaseniors.com
The Heritage of Marietta
1790 Powder Springs Road Marietta, GA 30064 | (770) 214-4302 Marietta.surpassliving.com
The Solana East Cobb
1032 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta, GA 30068 | (770)-629-8496 www.arborcompany.com
Winnwood Retirement Community
100 Whitlock Avenue
Marietta, GA 30064 | (770) 637-3589
Winnwoodretire.com
Woodland Ridge Assisted Living
4005 South Cobb Drive Smyrna, GA 30080 | 770-431-7055
Woodlandridge.com
HOSPICE CARE:
Amedisys Central Home Heath Care
4255 Wade Green Road NW, Bldg. 300, Suite 320 Kennesaw, GA 30144 | 770-424-3595 locations.amedisys.com/ga/kennesaw/ Amity Care
161 Village Parkway Building 7 Marietta, GA 30067 | 678-402-5235
Amitycarehospice.com
Angel Hearth Hospice
1225 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 855 Marietta, GA 30068 | 770-738-7083
Angelhearthospice.com
Bristol Hospice Georgia
2849 Paces Ferry Road, Suite 380
Atlanta, GA 30339 | 770-434-9530
bristolhospice.com/georgia/
Compassus — Kennesaw
300 Chastain Center Boulevard, Suite 345
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | 706-553-7092
www.compassus.com/locations
Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care of Georgia
1225 Johnson Ferry Road, Bldg 100, Suite 160 Marietta, GA 30068| 866-742-6655
Cornerstonehospice.org
Encompass Health Hospice
1000 Cobb Place Boulevard NW, Suite 310
Located in Bailey Park
Kennesaw, GA 30144 | (678) 218-5745
Heritage Hospice, Inc.
3315 Hilltop Drive
Marietta, GA 30066 | 770-423-5959
Heritage-hospice.com
Ladahma Hospice
1755 The Exchange SE, Suite 360D
Atlanta, GA 30339 | 470-552-8502
Wellstar Tranquility at Cobb Hospital
4040 Hospital West Drive
Austell, GA 30106 | 770-732-6710
wellstar.org/locations/community-hospice/ community-hospice-4040-hospital-west-drive
Wellstar Tranquility at Kennesaw Mountain
475 Dickson Ave NW
Marietta, GA 30064
470-245-9930
wellstar.org/locations/community-hospice/ community-hospice-475-dickson-avenue-nw
Special Needs Cobb Annual Golf Invitational
October 9, 2023
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Chip In For Children’s Charity Golf Classic
October 16, 2023
American Legion Riders Chapter 29
3rd Annual “Salute the Fallen” Charity Ride
October 21, 2023
LiveSafe Resources
Que & Brew
October 21, 2023
Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia
Spooktacular Chase
October 21, 2023
Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s
November 4, 2023
Special Olympics Georgia
28th Annual Bob Busse Memorial Golf Classic
November 6, 2023
Junior League of Cobb-Marietta (JLCM)
Mistletoe Market 2023
November 10 and 11
American Legion Post 29
9th Annual Veterans Memorial 5K Run/Walk/Wheelchair/Tot Trot
November 11, 2023
MUST Ministries
MDJ Gobble Jog (1K, 5K, 10K & Tot Trot)
November 23, 2023
Cobb Chamber of Commerce
The PEARL Foundation
Dashing Through the Square 5K Run/Walk
December 16, 2023
Marietta Police Athletic League Shamrock Shuffle 5K
March 16, 2024
Piedmont Park Conservancy Back on my Feet
Elliott Galloway Scholarship Fund & The DONNA Foundation Jeff Galloway Race Weekend
March 16 — 17, 2024
American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Cobb County
April 27, 2024
Hemophilia Of Georgia
Trot to Clot
May 2024
Information provided courtesy of Cobb Travel & Tourism and Visit Marietta.
Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row
Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row
“We’re honored that both Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized as ‘Best of Cobb’ for Retirement Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care again in 2023. I’m proud to say that it’s the 5th year in a row we’ve won these awards and an awesome tribute to our staff members. We’ve been serving seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now...we invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“We’re honored that both Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized as ‘Best of Cobb’ for Retirement Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care again in 2023. I’m proud to say that it’s the 5th year in a row we’ve won these awards and an awesome tribute to our staff members. We’ve been serving seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now...we invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don't have the wellness center, green space, daily programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... Bet yours will too."
Come See What Sets us Apart
~ Susan S.“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don't have the wellness center, green space, daily programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... Bet yours will too."
~ Susan S.Local Owners and Managers | Unparalleled Wellness & Activities Centers & Programs | Award Winning Food and Spacious Dining | Beautiful Manicured Lawns & Courtyards w Walking Paths | Certified Parkinson’s Programs | Longevity of Staff
Come See What Sets us Apart
Local Owners and Managers | Unparalleled Wellness & Activities Centers & Programs | Award Winning Food and Spacious Dining | Beautiful Manicured Lawns & Courtyards w Walking Paths | Certified Parkinson’s Programs | Longevity of Staff
STERLING ESTATES
SterlingEstates.com
Assisted, Independent Living & Memory Care East Cobb: 678-946-4454 Shelly • West Cobb: 770-255-7000 Sherry & Lacey
SterlingEstates.com Assisted, Independent Living & Memory Care
Cobb is home to some of metro Atlanta’s finest homes and neighborhoods.
Take the 16,080-square-foot mansion at 4340 Paper Mill Road in the Atlanta Country Club neighborhood of east Cobb, which sold for $4.7 million on April 12, 2022, according to broker Jaydee Austin Smith with Ansley Real Estate and Christie’s International Real Estate.
Built in 2011, the eight-bedroom, 10-bath and two-half-bath home sits on 2.2 acres between Sope Creek and the Chattahoochee River and was initially listed for $5 million, Austin Smith said.
Glennda Baker, the listing agent for the home, noted the appeal of living in the Atlanta Country Club area, “probably the nicest neighborhood, certainly in east Cobb, and probably one of the most affluent in all of Cobb County,” she said.
Inside the home, highlights include a 22-seat movie theater with 3D technology, a gym to meet the standards of professional athletes and a climate controlled wine cellar and tasting room.
Baker also pointed out the 28-foot-high family room, which features a dome positioned for a grand piano, “so that the music from the grand piano would bellow throughout the house evenly.”
On the terrace level is full guest suite with its own bedroom, full bath, living room, kitchen and dining room.
On the lower level is another bedroom, two baths and one halfbath. On the upper level, there are six bedrooms and six fullbaths. The home boasts Venetian plaster walls with limestone trim, Baker said.
Outside, the luxury of the property is as evident as it is on the inside.
“Oh my stars and stripes,” Baker said as she described the landscape of the property. “When you walk in the house, you walk through these double iron doors, and across the back were these floor-to-ceiling windows, and just through those windows, you can see this spectacular swimming pool.”
The grounds are fully fenced and gated, with four outdoor verandas overlooking the saltwater pool and tennis court. There’s also a chipping green at the back of the property, Baker added.
Baker said one of her favorite parts of the residence is the sight upon entering.
“When you walked into the foyer, there was this floating staircase that was replicated after the St. Regis in Buckhead, and it had this mezzanine all the way around it, and the iron work from the stairs to the mezzanine railing was all matched to the front door,” Baker said.
A room in the mezzanine area was designated just for making music and featured various musical instruments, Baker said. A previous owner who was into country music had friends over to write and record songs, she added.
“The property was spectacular, it really, really was, and no matter where you were in this house, it was made for entertaining,” Baker said. Taxes for the property in 2022 came out to $55,284, according to the Cobb tax assessor’s office.
4340 Paper Mill Road
Price: $4.7 million Square feet: 16,080 Taxes: $55,284
Neighborhood: Atlanta Country Club
While Cobb’s housing market has slowed down amid rising interest rates, local real estate professionals think that could change in 2024.
“I think when rates come down, you’re going to see a lot of activity in the market,” said Marietta mortgage lender Jason Waters.
As interest rates have risen, the frenzied housing market that characterized the pandemic has eased. Inventory is low, and houses are taking longer to sell.
In July 2023, the residential sales volume in Cobb County
was down 18% from the year before, according to the Georgia Multiple Listing Services. The number of units sold that month, 764, was down 18.5% from the year prior.
Active listings, meanwhile, were down by 25%, and new listings were down 23%.
Interest rates have had a dampening effect on the market, Waters said. Many people refinanced their mortgages during the low-interest days of the pandemic. Now, with rates at their highest point in two decades, people are reluctant to sell, knowing they would have to enter a high-interest mortgage on their new home.
In August 2023, selling a home and buying another can mean swapping a 3.5% interest rate for a 7% rate.
“It’s definitely still a seller’s market,” said Waters, citing high rates and low inventory.
Marietta Realtor Johnny Sinclair said low inventory and the consistent population growth in metro Atlanta have caused steadily rising prices.
“We have a really low inventory, there’s just not that many houses for sale. So I think the market’s going to stay strong,” Sinclair said.
Georgia MLS reports the median sales price in Cobb was $430,000 in July 2023, up from $425,000 the year prior.
Cobb remains an attractive place to buy a home, Sinclair added, for the same reasons it’s attracted people for decades — good schools, low taxes.
Waters concurred.
“I still think this is the best place to live, work and raise a family. Houses are not as affordable as they used to be, but certainly more affordable than living in town,” Waters said.
While sales and listings are down from last year, Sinclair said homes that are priced right, updated and attractive are still selling fast.
“Buyers definitely like a house that is ready to go,” he said. “They love to be wowed.”
That might not even mean a major renovation, Sinclair said. Some fresh paint and good lighting fixtures go a long way.
But there are two rooms which make a big difference, he said.
“Kitchens and bathrooms sell houses, now more than ever,” Sinclair said.
Waters thinks interest rates will go down some point in the next year, which will bring more churn to the housing market.
“You’re going to have kind of ever growing demand, because population is growing … but the supply is not keeping up … and people are still moving here every day,” he said.
Whether it’s from new transplants, a growing family looking for space, or empty nesters waiting to downsize, there’ll be pent-up demand when rates go down again, Waters said.
Sinclair also thinks that’s likely to happen in 2024.
“In an election year … I would predict that rates will go down,” Sinclair said. “I think that the effect of that is going to be an increase in activity, because there’s a lot of buyers that are waiting to get back into the market.”
Increased activity will drive prices up further, he added.
Sinclair’s advice to clients is that it may be a better time to buy than people realize.
“If we think prices are going to go up again — which we do — why don’t you go ahead and buy a house now, and get a good price, and if interest rates go down, you can just refinance,” Sinclair said. “If they don’t go down, then you’re the winner, and you’ve already started building equity.”
By Hunter Riggall hriggall@mdjonline.com
For some Americans, the upheaval wrought by COVID-19 is in the rearview mirror.
But for owners of office buildings, or business leaders deciding how much space they need, the effects are still rippling.
Commercial real estate giant Cushman & Wakefield reports that 23.2% of metro Atlanta’s office space was vacant as of mid-year 2023, up about 1% from the year prior.
Another major firm, CBRE, reports that metro Atlanta’s office market had more move-outs than move-ins in the second quarter of 2023. As a result, the average asking rent decreased for the first time in two years.
“Tenants continued to navigate economic uncertainty, recessionary fears and remote work trends,” CBRE reports, adding that “availabilities are at all-time highs.”
Local experts say that trend isn’t likely to change soon, though they expect things will stabilize over the next few years.
“Hopefully we’ll get through the dismal,” said Bruce Ailion, a realtor for RE/MAX and former head of the Cobb Association of Realtors.
But other commercial real estate products, such as industrial space, are as strong as they’ve ever been.
CBRE notes average industrial rental rates reached record highs in the second quarter of 2023.
Paraphrasing a report from CoStar, local broker Dan Buyers said industrial vacancy was just 4.6% in metro Atlanta, and rents have climbed 10% over the past year.
“Industrial is still incredibly hot,” Buyers said.
The commercial office market has struggled since the pandemic forced white-collar employees to work from home. Many workers got used to, or even preferred, working at home.
The average lease for an office is five years, Buyers said. As leases signed pre-pandemic expire, many companies are not renewing, or downsizing.
While some companies are making employees come back to the office, other types of workers may never come back, Buyers said. He mentioned call centers and information technology in particular.
“Many, if not most IT professionals may not ever come back into the office setting,” Buyers said.
Buyers said metro Atlanta has a record high volume of office space available for sublease. That’s space that a business is leasing, but not using, and is then rented out to another party at a discount.
“Those lower rates put pressure on the higher rates that landlords are asking when leasing space directly in that same building,” Buyers said, further lowering office rents.
Buyers said offices in
walkable areas near restaurants, retail and events — places like the Battery Atlanta, Marietta Square, Vinings and downtown Smyrna, are still in high demand. Businesses will pay more to rent in attractive areas, even if they could get a better deal in a sleepy office park.
“It is incredible what the Battery has done to prop up the Cumberland office market,” Buyers said. “It would be a much gloomier picture … if we did not have the Atlanta Braves.”
A report from CBRE found that about 21.5% of office space in the Cumberland/Galleria area was vacant, as of mid-year 2023. That’s lower than midtown, Buckhead or downtown, which all have vacancy ranging from 23-27%.
“Vacancy remained heavily concentrated in the urban core, where 27.6% of space was empty — well above the suburban rate of 20.6%,” Cushman & Wakefield writes.
Ailion said, historically, suburban markets have recovered from economic shocks faster than urban ones.
While it’s not “a money party” in the suburbs, it’s a better environment than some of the traditional urban business districts, Ailion said.
“I think it’s going to languish for a period. There’s very little new construction,” Ailion said. “And so as more people migrate to Atlanta the demand will increase … there’s an oversupply of available space. And until that oversupply is soaked up, owners are not going to be able to significantly increase rent … most people are in a ‘hope it gets better’ mindset.”
Ailion said suburban offices have the benefit of often being closer to where employees live.
“My office is a five-minute drive from my house. I like working at home, but it’s not an inconvenience for me to go to the office,” Ailion said.
Ailion mentioned an office he’s tried to lease out in Acworth. It’s in pristine condition and would cost $250 per square foot to build today. He’s struggling to lease it for $115 per square foot.
“Houses across the street are selling for $200, $225 a square foot,” Ailion said. “So office, particularly, is disadvantaged because of diminished demand.”
Ailion advises clients who own office buildings to be patient. He believes demand will eventually rise.
“I advise people to go out and buy as much office as you can today, because it’s due to have that spike where at some point it catches up to the expected anticipated value,” he said.
The growth of logistics and e-commerce during the pandemic helped fuel an increase in demand for industrial space.
Now, industrial land is selling at “shockingly high prices,” Buyers said, in some cases more expensive than retail land.
“A lot of industrial uses are difficult to locate, based on zoning,” Buyers said, noting that there’s little land in Cobb County zoned for industrial use, and significant resistance to putting industrial space near single-family homes.
The retail market is faring better than it has in recent years, too. Buyers said.
Retail vacancy across metro Atlanta is just 3.6%, a figure he called “extremely healthy.”
Much of the anxiety in commercial real estate has shifted from the retail space to the office space, Buyers said. Many retail spaces which were distressed were repurposed for other
uses, leading to less vacancy and higher rents.
Retail space for restaurants and other experiential businesses, Buyers said, is faring especially well.
“Some retail is as strong as ever, maybe stronger than ever, in Cobb County,” Buyers said.
Ailion mentioned that spaces in shopping centers anchored by grocery stores fetch extra high rents.
Multifamily developments are also performing well, Buyers said, especially in desirable neighborhoods. So is the medical office market, which remains “exceedingly healthy,” amid an aging population.
MARIETTA — November 2023 marks 10 years since 54% of voters approved a $68 million bond, most of it for the city to redevelop the Franklin Gateway corridor.
Back in 2013, Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin claimed two victories — winning a second term in office, and getting residents’ approval for a tax increase to tackle the redevelopment project.
Now in his fourth term, Tumlin calls the project a success, even if it remains incomplete.
“I think it did a world of good,” he said in an interview. But, the mayor added, “I won’t consider it completely successful until everybody that bought property builds.”
The redevelopment is perhaps the signature project of Marietta’s longest serving mayor.
The bond authorized the city to raise taxes by up to 2 mills for up to 20 years. Initially, the full tax increase was levied. In recent years, the mayor and council have lowered the redevelopment bond millage — it now stands at 1.3 mills.
City Manager Bill Bruton said the city owes $45.8 million on the bond. It is expected to be paid off by the start of 2034. Money generated by the tax increase was used to purchase properties up and down Franklin Road (later renamed as
Franklin Gateway). The city then demolished aging, blighted properties and sold the empty lots at artificially low prices to attract new development.
City leaders initiated the project in response to what they saw as a glut of dilapidated apartment complexes and shopping centers in the area. The corridor was suffering from high commercial and residential vacancy rates and crime.
Marietta school board members also campaigned for the bond, saying at the time that the apartments included a high number of transient students, which had negative effects on school performance and graduation rates.
In arguing its success, Tumlin and the city cite a series of statistics.
One metric is property values. From 2013 to 2022, the net tax digest value of the Franklin Gateway corridor has grown by 110%, from $343.7 million to $772.1 million.
Over the same period, the citywide net tax digest grew by 54%.
And vacancy rates have dropped across all categories. Those rates, from 2013 to 2023, are listed below:
♦ Multi-family: 14.3% to 7.9%
♦ Office: 44.2% to 5.4%
♦ Industrial: 18.4% to 5.8%
♦ Flex: 32.9% to 9.7%
♦ Retail: 4.1% to 0.7%
Crime had already been declining in the area from 20102013. The drop continued over the next decade, from 565
incidents in 2013 to 215 incidents in 2022.
While there are still empty lots on Franklin Gateway that Marietta leaders would like to see developed, the city has sold off all the properties it purchased for the project.
During the bond campaign, Tumlin was criticized by the right and left. Conservatives didn’t want their taxes raised, and liberals said the mayor was displacing predominantly low-income, minority populations.
Regarding the tax increase, Tumlin said that “mathematically, this thing is a slam dunk.”
With displacement, the mayor maintains the same argument that was made before the bond passed — that residents were exploited by negligent landlords, and the city had to step in.
“The conditions were horrible,” he said. “Especially Latinos, the Hispanics, they don’t call code enforcement. They were scared. … There were a lot of vacancies. We did it with a good human heart to give people a good place to live.”
The Marietta Housing Authority was brought in at the time to help people relocate.
In the wake of the recession, Tumlin added, some complexes were offering short-term incentives to new residents in an attempt to prevent vacancies. Often, those residents would leave after a couple of months when the incentives stopped.
“A lot of the components have been good,” Tumlin said.
“The fact that, you know, we displaced families, we made that choice. But most of them stayed here (in the city).”
Tumlin said owners of the apartment complexes that weren’t torn down “started taking care of them, fixing doors that were off the hinges.”
But even as developers have approached the city with proposals to build new apartment complexes, Tumlin remains resistant to high-density projects and rental housing. He and his allies often invoke the example of Franklin Road as a cautionary tale.
“I just like lower density,” Tumlin said.
Still, Tumlin said he’s not opposed to all apartment developments. He pointed to the senior housing the Marietta Housing Authority has built as a positive example.
“Are all apartments bad? That was never the case,” Tumlin said. “We just built, in my opinion … too many on this street.”
The most high-profile development the city has attracted to Franklin Gateway is Atlanta United’s training ground. The 33-acre site opened in 2017, and boasts a 30,000-squarefoot headquarters and six fields.
Just down the street, with United’s help, the city built a public sports complex, which also opened in 2017. The
Franklin Gateway Sports Complex consists of three lighted multipurpose soccer fields with artificial turf.
Rickey Clark, the city recreation coordinator who runs the complex, said business is booming.
In its first few years, the complex generated about $300,000 in revenue annually, Clark said. That number has grown to north of $400,000 for the past two years. He thinks 2023 will produce similar numbers, but hopes to break half a million dollars.
The fields are rented by private clubs, schools and camps. About 70% of the business is soccer and 25% is lacrosse, Clark said. The rest is a mix of other sports like touch football or kickball.
“I’m a sports fanatic, but I love youth sports,” Clark said. “That’s what I love the most is trying to create programs and have a safe place for kids to come play.”
The complex regularly hosts hundreds of young athletes and their families. Clark said those visitors are good for the Franklin Gateway corridor’s economy.
“All the hotels, all the gas stations, all the restaurants, they get it on this,” he said.
Another Gateway addition since the bond was passed is the Home Depot Technology Center.
More offices in the area are in the works. In late 2021, the city sold a 6.7-acre site at the corner of Franklin Gateway and South Marietta Parkway to MiRus, a medical tech firm.
MiRus plans to build its new headquarters at the site, formerly home to a flea market.
After the council approved the sale, MiRus came back to the city last summer, seeking approval to use extra space on the property to build a 4-story, 78-room hotel. Council members balked at the proposal, which was tabled.
“After we told them the hotel might not be a good fit, they haven’t been back,” Tumlin said. But he added, “I think those medical boys will (build the office), they’re very successful.”
Daniel Cummings, the city’s economic development director, said MiRus still plans to develop “phase one” of the property — the offices — and remains in contact with city staff.
Tumlin’s great white whale for the area, however, is Ikea.
In 2018, the city sold a 33.7-acre lot on Franklin Gateway to the Swedish retail giant, which planned to build a 338,000-square-foot shopping center there.
Citing a “rapidly changing retail environment” and the need to secure “the longevity of our business,” Ikea paused those plans in 2020, during the pandemic.
In April 2023, Ikea announced plans to invest $2.2 billion in its U.S. business over the next three years with the opening of eight new stores and smaller format stores.
The company told the MDJ it is “excited to bring Ikea closer to customers across the US,” but didn’t say whether
the Marietta site is one of the new stores.
“We are early in the planning stages and look forward to sharing more details on our expansion plans at a later stage,” Ikea said.
The mayor was excited about the company’s expansion announcement, but didn’t have inside information.
“They haven’t called and said ‘You’re one of the 17,’” he said.
He remains optimistic about the proposal. Ikea has one other store in Georgia, in Atlanta. The next closest stores are in Memphis, Charlotte and Jacksonville. Tumlin said the Marietta location would attract customers from north Georgia and surrounding states without the need to venture inside the perimeter.
“I know 1940 retailers are not gonna come back … But Ikea is so unique that I think it would help other retailers around here,” he said.
Cummings said in the past three or four years, he’s received an “immense” number of calls from developers interested in the Ikea property. As far as he knows, Ikea has rebuffed all the would-be buyers.
Cummings said that level of interest, plus the numbers, prove that the stated goals of the redevelopment bond are being met.
“Pretty much in any measurable statistics … There’s just been an immense amount of improvement. And I think along with that has come a reputational improvement,” Cummings said.
In pitching Franklin Gateway to developers, Cummings and his staff point to its location and ease of access.
“The access to (Interstate) 75, its location in between Town Center and the Battery,” he said. “Especially for the larger tracts, if you look up the northwest corridor, there’s just not a lot of larger developable tracts.”
The city’s investment also shows that the local government is working to improve the area, he said, pointing to the bond, the creation of the Gateway Marietta Community Improvement District, development of the Rottenwood Creek Trail, and more.
The CID, Tumlin said, has improved public safety with more security cameras.
“Residential people cannot join the CID, so we’re a little limited to their firepower, but they’re doing a good job,” Tumlin said.
Cummings also highlighted beautification projects the CID has performed.
“If somebody moves there, they know that it’s an area where the city has been invested and continues to be, and now the CID gets to continue the investment,” Cummings said.
The mayor feels the best is yet to come. It will take time and diligence to see the project through, he said.
“Not like instant grits,” he added.
1. Hester Group Harry Norman Realtors East Cobb
2. Janice Overbeck Keller Williams Realty Atlanta North
3. Kelly + Co Real Estate Team Keller Williams Realty Atlanta North
4. The Dwell Collective Keller Williams Realty Cityside
5. Courtney Newton and Associates Keller Williams Realty Atlanta North
6. Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group Keller Williams Signature Partners
7. Kristin McKeeth/The Premier Group Keller Williams Realty Partners
8. Bob Wolf Keller Williams Realty Partners
9. Lisa Simpson Keller Williams Signature Partners
10. Debbie Forrester Team RE/MAX Around Atlanta Realty
Information provided courtesy of Cobb Association of REALTORS.
A Continuing Care Retirement Community offering comprehensive services for your needs now and in the future. For couples, the continuum of care provides increased health support if that becomes necessary while allowing both of you to remain in the same community.
With a variety of care options, Presbyterian Village can be your home for a lifetime: Residential Living • Supportive Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing
1. Johnny Sinclair Ansley Real Estate Marietta
2. Jennifer Xu/Juntao Xu Keller Williams Realty Atlanta North
3. Sherri Godwin Overlook Brokers LLC
4. Wendy Gravlin Chambers Atlanta Communities
5. Susan Edwards Triumph Realty of Georgia
6. Teena Regan Team/Teena Regan 22 One Realty Co.
7. David Bascoe Compass
8. Ellen Hill Atlanta Fine Homes
9. Diane Tatum Atlanta Communities — West Cobb
10. Helen Pugh Durrence Re/Max Pure
Information provided courtesy of Cobb Association of REALTORS.
OUR TOP PRODUCERS
Top row: Becky Branan • Kathy Brock • Darryl Carlbom • JC Carollo • Kyle Duncan Helen Durrence • Kimberly Edwards Second row: Tanya Ess-Young • Zach Fox • Ali Herring
OUR TOP PRODUCERS Top row: Becky Branan • Kathy Brock • Darryl Carlbom • JC Carollo • Kyle Duncan • Helen Durrence • Kimberly Edwards Second row: Tanya
Ess-Young • Zach Fox • Ali Herring • Gail Holman • David Holmes • Rachel Hudgins •
Fitz Johnson Third row: Tammy Johnson • Lindsey Kent • Peyton Lamb • Shelia Marshall •
Gail Holman • David Holmes • Rachel Hudgins Third row: Fitz Johnson • Lindsey Kent Peyton Lamb • Shelia Marshall • Tania May • Cathy Meder • Margie Medlin Fourth row: Kristi Navarre • Jeff Nowlin • Heather Osterink • Robert Quigley • Luis Ramirez
Tania May • Cathy Meder • Margie Medlin Fourth row: Kristi Navarre • Jeff Nowlin •
We are constantly growing our team. Check our web site for complete listing of agents.
Heather Osterink • Robert Quigley • Luis Ramirez • Colleen Wadman • Tracey Woodruff. We are constantly growing our team. Check our web site for complete listing of agents.
The knowledge you need.
The commitment you deserve. The results you desire.
The knowledge you need. The commitment you deserve. The results you desire.
Q: Is your doctor a board-certified plastic surgeon?
A: Board-certification from an accredited board is important because it means your surgeon has specialized training and experience specifically in plastic surgery. Marietta Plastic Surgeons are board-certified members of American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Q: Is your surgeon experienced?
A: MPS surgeons have more than 80 years of combined experience and thousands of successful procedures. We are proud to have been a part of the Atlanta community for 30 years.
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A: MPS experienced staff operates in our own ambulatory certified outpatient surgery center for privacy, convenience and safety. There is no need to go to a hospital for surgery.
MPS offers minimally invasive solutions in our surgical center as well as non-surgical solutions in our medical spa. Call us today or visit our website to schedule your personal plastic surgery consultation!