Kids & Family

Moms and dads from East Cobb talk about issues that are important to families. Family-friendly events are also featured. Join in and share.

Are you still looking for summer camps? The new School of the Arts at Mt. Bethel has 2 great options!

May 18, 2013 Leave a Comment

Camp Broadway is an exciting theatre camp offered this summer at The Mt. Bethel School of the Arts. This camp will include music, dancing, acting, games, arts and crafts, and lots of fun! Camp Broadway is designed to teach children about the performing arts and to give them a chance to perform, as well. This year’s theme is the Disney Jr. Musical, “Alice in Wonderland.” Auditions will be held May 20 and 21 for lead roles, but don’t worry, every child that signs up for camp will be a part of the production.

Camp Broadway will be held June 17-21 at Mt. Bethel UMC for rising 1st-6th grade students. Camp runs from 9am-2pm with lunch served in between. Students will enjoy four rotations throughout the day including acting, dancing, vocal performance, and games/arts and crafts. Each day ends with a rehearsal of the musical. The performance of “Alice in Wonderland” will be held Friday, June 21 at 6pm.

Stagedoor Studios is a performing arts camp offered just for kids! Each day campers will have the opportunity to study with professionals trained in the fields of theater, dance, art, improv and music. Young stars will work as teams to put together acts that showcase their new found performing skills. Each class will perform in the variety show that closes out the camp week on Friday night.

This year’s camp theme is “There’s No Place Like Camp! – Welcome to the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” Let the adventures of Dorothy and her friends inspire creativity and ease on down the yellow brick road!

Stagedoor Studios is for rising 1st grade through rising 6th grade students.

Deadline for registration is July 1. www.mtbethel.org/stagedoor

Post Camp Care
Families requiring additional care due to work schedules can take advantage of post-camp hours for both camps. Parents can pick-up their children as late as 5:30 pm. The cost is $50 per week. (Parents arriving after 5:40 will be charged $1 per minute.)

Campers are kept engaged with games, movies, arts and crafts and other activities. Parents should provide snacks and drinks for this extra time.

Filed Under: Kids & Family, [Featured], [PostToSocial] Tagged With: Mt. Bethel School of the Arts

Ready…set…SUMMER! Community Events May 17 – 23.

May 16, 2013 Leave a Comment

Graduation signs have been spotted all over East Cobb, signifying the end of school and the unofficial start of summer!

The graduation signs are out and schools ending for the summer. Make the most of this week with these community events. For even more activities, check out our online calendar HERE.

Every Tuesday and Saturday, Feeding Time at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of their resident animals as they are being fed. 4pm. Admission: $8/adults. $6/seniors. $5/ages 3-12. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. More info: 770-992-2055.

Trail Hikes, Every Saturday and Sunday. A docent guides you on a journey through the Chattahoochee Nature Center trails using biofacts and activities to spark you “natural” curiosity. 1pm. Admission: $8/adults. $6/seniors. $5/ages 3-12. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. More info: 770-992-2055.

FREE Chess Matches every Saturday. Hone your chess skills with games every Saturday starting at 3pm, Cool Beans Coffee Roasters (31 Mill St. Marietta, GA 30060) in Marietta Square. There no cost to play, email iJapanesey@Gmail.com or visit www.MariettaChess.com for more information.

May 17
The Dining Room a comedy/drama presented by the Polk Street Players and directed by Mary Nimsgern. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 8pm. Sunday: 2:30pm. Saturday May 4 and 11, dinner also served at 7pm. Tickets: $12.50/person; $20 for Saturday dinner shows. St. James’ Episcopal Church, 161 Church Street, Marietta, 30060. For reservations: 770-218-9669.

William Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure presented by the North Fulton Drama Club. 8pm. Seating begins at 7pm. Special Mother’s Day Matinee on May 12 at 4pm. Admission is free – $5 donations are welcome. Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. More info: 770-640-3855 or www.barringtonhall-roswell.com.

The Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church presents the 23rd Annual Marietta Greek Festival May 17-19. The Marietta Greek Festival will be held on the beautiful church grounds at 3431 Trickum Road in East Cobb. Many people in the East Cobb Community have watched the Marietta Greek Festival grow from humble beginnings in 1990 at the Cobb County Civic Center to Cobb County’s largest ethnic event. 2013 marks the 23rd anniversary of this beloved Marietta tradition and all are invited to come celebrate and enjoy the Greek culture. Enjoy homemade Greek food and pastries, live Greek music, authentic Greek dancing, exotic shopping and much more. There is something for every member of the family.

Sixth Annual Marietta Student Film Festival. Georgia’s premier student film festival spotlights funny, original short films submitted by Cobb County students, ages 10-19, all competing to win a grand prize of $500! All 2013 submissions focus on the theme “Living The Dream”…guaranteed to be hilarious! 7-9pm. Free. Earl Smith Strand Theatre, 117 North Park Square, Marietta. More info: 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org.

The Return: Beatles Tribute Band. Presented by the Michael O’Neal Singers. 8pm. $20/adults. $15/students & ages 60+. Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell. More info: 770-594-7974 or
www.mosingers.com.

20^th Anniversary Relay for Life to benefit the American Cancer Society. The event is held overnight as individuals and teams camp out at an athletic track or park, with the goal of keeping at least one team member on the track at all times throughout the evening. Relay brings together the community aimed at furthering the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by helping people stay well, by helping people get well, by finding cures and by fighting back. 7pm-7am. $10. Free for survivors. Jim Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta. More info: www.cobbrelay.org.

Transfiguration Theatre Players present the toe-tapping, bluegrass musical “Cotton Patch Gospel”, written by noted Atlanta actor, Tom Key and Russell Treyz with music by Harry Chapin. The Gospels of Matthew and John are joyously retold in a modern, rural Georgia setting. Tickets are $20 for dinner theatre on opening night, May 17th at 7:30pm and only $7 for dessert intermission shows on May 18th at 2:30 and 7:30pm. All performances will be presented in Bishop Hall at Transfiguration Catholic Church, 1815 Blackwell Road NE, Marietta, GA 30066. For more information, please call Phil Miles at 770-977-1442 or visit www.transfiguration.com.

Walton Football Spring Game. Gates open at 5:30pm, 7th Grade Scrimmage begins at 6pm and 8th and 9th grade scrimmages at 6:30pm. Stick around after the game for the inaugural Walton Punt Pass and Kick contest presented by Walton Youth Football. Register same day as the event, no pre-registration. Divided into K-1st, 2nd grade and 3rd grade age groups. FREE admission to all games and contest. Walton High School is located at 1590 Bill Murdock Road. The Varsity game begins at 7:30pm.

May 18
Adopt-A-Thon. Residents are invited to find a new best friend to take home at Cobb County Animal Control. 10am-4pm. There will be vendors, food, police K-9 demonstrations, special adoption rates and a raffle. People will also have the chance to meet the county’s on-staff veterinarian. 1060 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta. More info: 770-590-5614.

Volley for Voice Tennis Tournament benefiting Voice Today, child advocates against child sexual abuse. World Team Tennis format (6-10 players/team with minimum of 3 men and 3 women). Individual players will be placed on a team based on their USTA or ALTA ranking. Junior players 15 and up competitive with adult ALTA B/USTA 3-3.5 level are welcome. Sign in: 7:30am. Tournament: 9am. $50/player. Harrison Tennis Center, 2653 Shallowford Road, Marietta. More info/to register: www.voicetoday.org or Phil Williams, 404-933-5097.

Fox Hills Neighborhood Garage Sale. 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fox Hills is located off Shadowlawn Road, between Paper Mill Road and Lower Roswell Road.

May 19
Annual Spirit of America Concert presented by Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church (UMC) Worship Arts Ministry and featuring the male vocal group, VERITAS. Old-fashioned ice cream social to follow concert. 5pm. Mt. Bethel UMC, 4385 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta. Free admission. More info: 770-971-2880.

Final Company 2013 presented by Mountain View Arts Alliance and Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts (CCCEPA), ending their season of Dance and Shout Broadway song and dance. Free. 7:30pm. Lawn opens at 7pm. Bring your blanket/chair. No alcohol. Free or $25/table for 8. The Art Place Mountain View, 3330 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. More info: 770-509-2700 or www.cccepa.com.

May 20
61^st Annual Atlanta Regional Military Affairs Council (ARMAC) Luncheonhosted by Cobb Chamber with former Assistant Secretary of Defense Dennis M. McCarthy as the keynote speaker. The luncheon is a celebration of Cobb’s military community, recognizing the service and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. A highlight of the event is the presentation of the 2013 USO Patriot of the Year Award. 11am. Cobb Galleria Centre, 2 Galleria Parkway SE, Atlanta 30339. More information: 770-859-2348 or kweinkle@cobbchamber.org.

May 21
READing Paws. This one-on-one program is designed to promote confidence and to encourage independent reading skills. Recommended for grades 1-5. Registration required. Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Mountain View Library, 3320 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta/East Cobb: 3-4pm. Gritters Library, 880 Shaw Park Road, Marietta: 3:30-4:30pm. More info: Mountain View, 770-509-2725; Gritters, 770-528-2524 or www.readingpaws.org.

Well Screen by Wellstar, an affordable health screening event. 7:30-10am. East Cobb YMCA, 1055 East Piedmont Road Marietta, 30062. More info and to register: 770-956-7827.

The East Cobb Business Association Monthly Luncheon for May at Hollycrest Hall, 2235 Sewell Mill Road. 1130am- 1pm.

May 22
Information Fair sponsored by Cobb Senior Services and Senior Citizen Council. Over 90 exhibitors with information on many topics such as Elder Law, Advance Directives, Assisted and Independent Living, Social Security, Volunteering, Medicare, Home Remodeling and much more. Free Admission and Free Parking. 10am-2pm. Cobb County Civic Center, 549 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta, 30060. More info: 770-528-1445 or 770-528-5381.

May 23
Brown Bag Concert Series. Grab your lunch at one of the many great restaurants around Marietta Square and meet your friends and coworkers at Glover Park every Thursday in May. 12-1pm. More info: 770-794-5601 or www.mariettaga.gov.

Do you know of an event happening around East Cobb? Email the details to events@eastcobber.com. Include “Event Listing” in the subject line. Stay on top of all the local fun and festivities when you “Like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/EASTCOBBER.

Filed Under: Kids & Family, [Featured], [PostToSocial] Tagged With: Community Events

May is for Mom! Community Events May 10 – 16.

May 9, 2013 Leave a Comment

Make Mom smile this Sunday!

This weekend is all about Mom. Make her week (and yours) and make plans to attend these great events. For even more activities, check out our online calendar HERE.

May 10
Annual Mother’s Day Gem and Mineral Show presented by the Georgia Mineral Society. Educational exhibits, club displays, mineral and fossil specimens. Free. Friday-Saturday: 10am-6pm. Sunday: Noon-5pm. Auction held Saturday at 1pm. Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta. More info: 770-979-8331 or www.gamineral.org.

71st Annual Yaarab Shrine Circus. Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta, GA 30008. From Interstate-75 take Exit 260 (Windy Hill Road) and go west. Go approximately five miles on Windy Hill Road and turn left on Austell Road. Turn right on Callaway Road. Jim R. Miller Park is on the right. Through May 12.

Good Mews Spring Flea Market. Find great bargains on a variety of items. Fridays and Saturdays: 9am-5pm. Sundays: Noon-5pm. All proceeds benefit Good Mews Animal Foundation, a local non-profit organization which operates a volunteer-based no-kill shelter for homeless, abused, and abandoned cats. Donations for the flea market accepted at the storefront every Saturday (10am-2pm) and Sunday (12-3pm) until May 5, and by appointment during the week. Email:
kmcnamara@goodmews.org to schedule a donation. Piedmont Commons (Publix) Shopping Center, 1050 E. Piedmont Road, Marietta, 30062. More info: 770-499-2287 or www.goodmews.org.

The Dining Room a comedy/drama presented by the Polk Street Players and directed by Mary Nimsgern. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 8pm. Sunday: 2:30pm. Saturday May 4 and 11, dinner also served at 7pm. Tickets: $12.50/person; $20 for Saturday dinner shows. St. James’ Episcopal Church, 161 Church Street, Marietta, 30060. For reservations: 770-218-9669.

Tokens of Affection presented by CenterStage North. A delightful new romantic comedy from the wonderfully witty mind of Atlanta’s own Topher Payne! The Garrett family is learning that although the big things in life get all the attention, it’s the little things that matter most. This show is packed with clever dialogue, huge laughs and beautifully tender moments. Thursday-Friday: 8pm. Saturday: 2pm & 8pm. Sunday: 2pm. $15. The Art Place Mountain View, 3330 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. More info/tickets: 770-331-0079 or www.centerstagenorth.org.

Cobb Executive Women Luncheon. Speaker: Elisabeth Marchant, President and CEO of Womenetics. Program: Challenges of Senior Level Executive Women. 11am-1pm. Members: $20 online (by noon, May 8) or $35 at door. Guests: $30 online (by noon, May 8) or $45 at door. The Georgian Club, 100 Galleria Parkway, 17^th Floor, Atlanta. More info: 770-859-2320 or www.cobbchamber.org.

May 11
The 4th annual Noteworthy 5K Race to benefit the GSO and the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra & Chorus (GYSO&C) is coming up on Saturday, May 11. The race begins at 7pm and organizers are offering several levels of racing including a 5K, a one mile run, and a “trot” for children 5 and under. Runners of all ability levels will be in attendance, and all participants are encouraged to dress in “formal” attire. This year’s sponsor is Wellstar. Online registration and more details can be found on active.com.

Garden Party and Plant Sale sponsored by Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County. Shop booths of yard art, birdhouses and feeders, sculpture, photography and more, alongside plants for sale. Plants include ornamentals, natives, conifers, shrubs, flowering annuals, perennials, and edible plants. Monarch over Georgia, the Plant Doctor Booth, Bee Keepers, and demonstrations by Master Gardeners. 10am-4pm. Free. 662 South Cobb Drive, Marietta, 30060. More info: 770-528-4070 or www.cobbmastergardeners.org.

Rockin’ at the River – Come Fly With Us. Annual fundraiser for the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Main Event: 7:30pm. Patron and Sponsor Reception: 6:30pm. Tickets: $125/General admission. $250/Patron party & event. Sponsorships available. Spring chic attire. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. More info/tickets: 770-992-2055, ext. 226 or www.chattnaturecenter.org.

Tea with Beatrix Potter at Barrington Hall. This springtime tradition features beloved children’s author “Beatrix Potter” portrayed by Atlanta actress, Holly Stevenson as she brings to life characters through captivating storytelling and puppet mastery. 1-3pm. Tickets: $10/person. Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell, 30075. More info: 770-640-3855.

Through the Garden Gate Tour. Explore the private gardens and projects of Master Gardeners in Cobb County. Advance tickets: $15/person. At event: $20/person. All tickets include map of garden locations. 10am-5pm. More info/tickets: 770-528-4070 or www.cobbmastergardeners.org.

Wheeler’s HOSA Club is sponsoring a 5K to benefit the Smile Train Foundation which provides cleft palate surgery for children in third world countries. The race begins at Wheeler High School on May 11th beginning with registration at 6:30AM and the race at 8AM. The entry fee before May 1st is $25; the day of the race the fee is $30; Phantom Runner fee of $25 is due May 11th. All checks are payable to Wheeler High School. All runners will receive a t-shirt, race packet, and plenty to eat and drink. If you have questions or need forms, please e-mail Sharon Hunt at Sharon.hunt@cobbk12.org.

Cobb County will once again play host to the United States Tennis Association National Open for boys and girls ages 16 and younger. The event will be held at Harrison Tennis Center May 11-13. This event attracts many of the top players from around the country. Past participants include several players who are currently on the professional tour, including rising star Melanie Oudin.

May 12
Mother’s Day Open House/Mothers Helping Others. Bring mom out on her special day at the historic homes of Roswell. Treat her to a tour of Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, and Smith Plantation during their annual open house with free admission. Food donations will be accepted at each home for the North Fulton Food Bank. 1-3pm. Archibald Smith Plantation, 935 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell. More info: 770-641-3978.

May 13
Rain Barrel Make & Take Workshop. Participants will create their own rail barrels from 55 gallon drums so please come dressed to be outdoors and working with power tools. 3-4pm. Free. Limit 1 barrel per household. Cobb County residents only. Registration required. Cobb County Water Quality Laboratory, 662 South Cobb Drive, Marietta. More info/to register: 770-528-1482 or http://watershed.cobbcountyga.gov/files/rainbarrels.htm.

May 14
Dickerson Middle School’s Odyssey of the Mind team competed and won 1st place in both the Regional and State competitions. The team is raising money for their trip to the World Championship in Michigan in May.
Enjoy dinner at Chick-fil-A and mention the Dickerson Middle School Odyssey of the Mind team. Chick-fil-A will donate a portion of their proceeds to the team.
6-9 pm, 1201 Johnson Ferry Rd.

Town Hall Meeting hosted by District Three Commissioner JoAnn Birrell. The police K-9 team and Animal Control will be spotlighted. 7pm. Mountain View Community Center, 3400 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. More info: 770-528-3317 or www.cobbcounty.org/birrell.

May 16
Brown Bag Concert Series. Grab your lunch at one of the many great restaurants around Marietta Square and meet your friends and coworkers at Glover Park every Thursday in May. 12-1pm. More info: 770-794-5601 or www.mariettaga.gov.

Business to Business Expo presented by Cobb Chamber of Commerce for the promotion of local businesses and corporate networking. More than 150 companies showcase their products and services to more than 1,000 attendees. Open to the public, this event keeps participants on the competitive edge with networking, idea sharing, product introduction and service solutions attracting executives at every level. 3-7pm. Free. Cobb Galleria Centre, 2 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. More info: 770-980-2000 or www.cobbchamber.org.

Do you know of an event happening around East Cobb? Email the details to events@eastcobber.com. Include “Event Listing” in the subject line. Stay on top of all the local fun and festivities when you “Like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/EASTCOBBER.

Filed Under: Kids & Family, [Featured], [PostToSocial] Tagged With: Community Events

Timber Ridge Girl Scouts Celebrate Earth Day with Tree Planting

May 8, 2013 Leave a Comment

Arden Gergen, Julia Mahairas, Hannah Buxbaum, Parker
Balog, Hannah Manley, Ellis Crawford, Phoebe Eddings, Anna
Grace Ettel, and Juliette Futrell surround the tree they just planted.

On a beautiful spring day, nine Daisy girl scouts from Troop 13396 huddled around a mound of bare earth encircling a tiny grass-like pine seedling at Timber Ridge Elementary School in East Cobb. The tiny seedling, deceptive at first glance would grow to be one of the tallest, oldest and rarest southern pine trees, the prestigious longleaf pine, explained volunteer (and girl scout parent) Troy Ettel who led the planting ceremony. Troy serves as Director of Forest Conservation for the Nature Conservancy. The Nature Conservancy and their partner, the Longleaf Alliance helped donate the planting materials for the Earth Day event, including providing a tree seedling for each Daisy girl scout to take home and plant in her own yard.

The girls listened intently as Troy provided a mini natural history lesson on the ecology of this threatened tree, and then, one by one, each Daisy girl scout took turns filling in the soil and securing the seedling in its new home, a grassy knoll flanking the school’s garden, known as “Wolfie’s Garden”.

Tristina McElreath, Timber Ridge Garden Committee Chair, looked on with approval and provided the following comments: “Thank you Girl Scout Troop 13396 for making a commitment to the land, to our community, and to the next five or six
generations with the planting of this special Long Leaf Pine Tree. Planting this tree causes me to reflect appreciatively on the faculty, staff, donors, and other friends of Timber Ridge Elementary and those who believe in giving back. My grandchild’s grandchild may one day draw inspiration from the canopy of this tree.”

Timber Ridge Elementary Principal Dr. Tracie Doe and Vice Principal Mr. Adam Hill looked on at the event. “We are very excited that today, on Earth Day, Timber Ridge girl scouts are thinking about nature and protecting the Earth for future generations of students,” said Doe.

Girl scout troop leader Magan Eddings agreed: “The girls are really taking ownership of this tree— not only are they earning a scout badge today for ‘using resources wisely’, but as they grow and mature as Timber Ridge students, the tree will be growing and maturing also.”

Longleaf pine forests are native to the southern United States and stretch from Texas to Virginia. Longleaf once covered more than 90 million acres, but after 300 years of intensive timber harvest, agricultural expansion, fire suppression, and urban development, less than three percent remains. More than 140 plant species can be found in one square kilometer of longleaf pine forest, and with nearly 900 indigenous plant species, this forest is as biologically diverse as tropical rainforests.

“It’s about more than the tree, more than the understory. It’s the entire ecosystem,” explains Michael Prevost, former project director with The Nature Conservancy (TNC). By a conservative estimate, this region once hosted more than 420,000 acres of longleaf. Currently, only about 50,000 acres remain.

(Reprinted from the May 2013 issue of EAST COBBER)

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Filed Under: Kids & Family, [Featured], [PostToSocial] Tagged With: Earth Day, Timber Ridge Girl Scouts

18th Annual EAST COBBER Parade & Festival Scheduled for September 21

May 6, 2013 Leave a Comment

This fall, East Cobb will once again welcome the hometown tradition of a community parade and festival when the 18th Annual EAST COBBER Parade & Festival takes place. The EAST COBBER Parade features floats and high school marching bands as well as a cornucopia of East Cobb groups and will be followed by the EAST COBBER Festival featuring local entertainment, carnival games and plenty of good food.

EAST COBBER extends its mission of building a sense of community by establishing a hometown tradition of a community parade and festival. As the producers of the first parade and festival in East Cobb County, the EAST COBBER aims to establish a strong network between schools, businesses, government and clubs to create a showcase event and annual tradition for East Cobb County. The EAST COBBER Parade has become the largest parade in all of Cobb County and is the only community-wide event for East Cobb.

The EAST COBBER Parade and Festival aims to builds a sense of community and reinforce East Cobb’s status as one of the best places to live in the Atlanta area by giving thanks and special tribute to those who contribute to the quality of life in East Cobb: such as, principals, schools, clubs, elected officials, and civic leaders. Overall, the objectives of this special event are as follows:

- Spotlight the people who contribute to the quality of life in East Cobb County.

- Provide opportunities for various groups of the community to interact.

- Boost the image of East Cobb to external audiences as well as to help East Cobb residents feel good about living in East Cobb.

- Celebrate the arts by providing a showcase for local fine arts performers and groups at the Festival.

- Promote economic development by providing local businesses with an event that demonstrates their community support and allows company personnel to interact with prospects and customers.

Because the EAST COBBER Parade & Festival is privately funded, contributions from local businesses are vital to keeping this tradition alive in East Cobb County. For sponsorship information or to request a festival booth application, contact 770-640-7070.

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May-ke the most of your week! Community events May 3 – 9.

May 2, 2013 Leave a Comment

May flowers are sprouting and so are fun festivals and entertaining events! For even more activities, check out our online calendar HERE.

“Square Root:” A Solo Art Exhibit by Pedro Gonzalez at 2 Rules Fine Art, through April 27. Exhibit of recent paintings, prints and drawings by Pedro A. Gonzalez, an East Cobb – Marietta resident. Gonzalez draws inspiration from ancient scripts, petroglyphs and codices. The artworks, most of which are square in shape, reflect back to the origins of alphabet systems, signs and symbols. A reception will be held Friday, April 5, 6-9pm during the Marietta Art Walk. The reception and the exhibit are free. Gallery hours: Wed-Sat 11am-6pm., 85 Church St., Marietta, GA 30060. More info: www.2rulesfineart.com or 404-355-6897.

May 3
71st Annual Yaarab Shrine Circus. Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta, GA 30008. From Interstate-75 take Exit 260 (Windy Hill Road) and go west. Go approximately five miles on Windy Hill Road and turn left on Austell Road. Turn right on Callaway Road. Jim R. Miller Park is on the right.

Breaking the Shackles Benefit Concert. To raise awareness about modern-day slavery (human trafficking) and raise money to benefit organizations such as Youth Spark’s A Future Not a Past Campaign, Wellspring Living and the International Justice Mission. The lineup includes the Brett Younker Band, Capital Kings, Unhindered, and The Museum. 6pm. Tickets: $13.80/Presale; $15/at door. Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, 955 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, 30068. More info: www.breakingtheshackles.org.

Chattahoochee Handweaver’s Guild Lecture at the Marietta/Cobb Art Museum. Lectures by members of the Chattahoochee Handweaver’s Guild will discuss how they create their works, their inspiration, and the thought that goes into each piece. Free. 7-8pm. Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art, 30 Atlanta Street, Marietta. More info: 770-528-1444 or www.mariettacobbartmuseum.org.

First Friday Art Walk. Self-guided tour of the Marietta Square’s eclectic art scene. Galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the first Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the window to identify the participating venues. 5-9pm. Historic Marietta Square, 17 Whitlock Avenue, Marietta. More info: www.artwalkmarietta.com.

Home by Dark Concerts at the Chattahoochee Nature Center featuring James Casto, Chas Sandford, Nicole Witt, and Matt Blanchard. Rain or shine outdoors under the beautiful Ben Brady Pavilion. 8pm. Gates open at 6:30pm. Tickets: $15/General Admission; $45/table for 2; $80/table for 4; $120/table for 6; $160/table for 8. No seating for general admission tickets so bring your own chairs/blankets. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell.
More info: www.homebydark.com/chattnaturecntr.

May 4
Taste of East Cobb & Festival. Tastes from the area’s finest restaurants, arts and crafts, kids activities, live music, silent auction and more. Free admission. Tastes are $1 to $5. Cash only. 11am-8pm, rain or shine (under tents). The Fountains of Olde Town Shopping Center, 736 Johnson Ferry Road. More info: www.tasteofeastcobb.com

2nd Annual Cobb Hobbler. Celebrate with the East Cobb community at the Cobb Hobbler 10K, 5K, and 1 mile fun run. Race organizers and sponsors created this event to support education, physical activity and community well being. More Information: www.cobbhobbler.org.

FREE Parents Only Seminar on Bullying Prevention and Predator Prevention: Every first Saturday at 2pm thru June 31st 2013. Register for a free one hour seminar to learn about keeping kids safe from bullying and predators. Due to the sensitive nature of course material, all attendees must be over the age of 18. Space is limited. To secure your seat for a seminar please call 404-474-2350. All classes held at PRO Martial Arts, 4880 Lower Roswell Road.

The Drake Walk. 1m and 5k Walks through historic Roswell and family friendly festival activities, entertainment, raffle and more. The walk will benefit the Drake House which helps homeless women and their children get back on their feet. Check-in: 9:30am. Walk and Festival: 10am-2pm. $15/individual; $30/family; $10/each for group of 10 or more. Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell. More info: 770-587-4712 or www.thedrakewalk.org.

Olympic Gold Medalist Claire Donahue to visit Atlanta Swim Academy. A great opportunity to meet an Olympian and get inspired to set your own goals! Public autograph signing and photo opportunity with Claire: 3-4pm. Atlanta Swim Academy, 732 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta/East Cobb 30068. More info: www.atlantaswimacademy.com

Dickerson Odyssey of the Mind Multi-Family Garage Sale. 9am, 4474 Karls Gate Dr, Marietta, GA 30068, FREE. Dickerson Middle School’s Odyssey of the Mind team competed and won 1st place in both the Regional and State competitions. The team is raising money for their trip to the World Championship in Michigan in May. Check out some great deals at the multi-family garage sale. It will feature furniture, household items, clothes and many more treasures.

8^th Annual Marietta Go Girl Festival celebrating girls presented by Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre. Games, face painting, raffles, live music, free dance lessons, performances by various local talent and more. 10am-5pm. Historic Marietta Square. More info: 770-426-0007 or www.mariettagogirl.com.

Free Comic Book Day 2013 hosted by Great Escape Comics and Games. All attendees will receive a free comic, no strings attached. There will be a variety of comics from many different publishers. A family-friendly event for everyone. 11am-8pm. Great Escape Comics and Games, 1050 East Piedmont Road, Marietta/East Cobb. More info: 678-438-4540 or www.freecomicbookday.com.

Helicopter Rides and Helicopter Day at the Aviation Wing of the Marietta Museum of History. 10am-3pm. Tickets: $40/person. $5 parking fee. Corner of Atlanta Road and South Cobb Drive, Marietta. More info: 770-794-5710 or www.mariettahistory.org.

May 5
Kids Concert. Hear the Cobb Wind Symphony, small ensembles and lots of great music on May 5, 2013, from 2-5pm. See the instruments up close, children are encouraged to wear costumes and scouts can earn credit towards badges. Explore music opportunities from age 0-99. Event held at Lassiter Concert Hall, 2601 Shallowford Road. For more information call 678-305-7148 or visit www.cobbwindsymphony.org.

May 6
Cobb Chamber First Monday Breakfast. Speaker: US Senator, Johnny Isakson. 7:30am. General admission: $60; Cobb Chamber Member: $40. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. More info: 770-980-2000 or www.cobbchamber.org.

May 7
9^th Annual Cobb Senior Idol. An afternoon of music, comedy, and dance as contestants battle it out to be 2013 Cobb Senior Idol! 1pm. Tickets: $5. Jennie Anderson Theater, 548 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta, 30060. Interested performers call 770-528-1445.

READing Paws. This one-on-one program is designed to promote confidence and to encourage independent reading skills. Recommended for grades 1-5. Registration required. Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Mountain View Library, 3320 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta/East Cobb: 3-4pm. Gritters Library, 880 Shaw Park Road, Marietta: 3:30-4:30pm. More info: Mountain View, 770-509-2725; Gritters, 770-528-2524 or www.readingpaws.org.

May 8
Museum Mice Tour: Making Music with Murray and Etta. Preschoolers, ages 3-5, are led into a lifelong love of history with Mice Tours. Each month the tour focuses on a different theme, including colors, shapes, music, jobs and more! Tickets: $7/family. Reservations are required for the tour. 10:30-11:30am. Marietta Museum of History, 1 Depot Street, Suite 200, Marietta. More info: 770-794-5710 or www.mariettahistory.org.

May 9
National Mom’s Nite Out at Mall of Georgia, Northlake Mall and Town Center at Cobb on Thursday, May 9. Focused on rewarding and recognizing mothers, Mom’s Nite Out is a chance for mothers to treat themselves to a night of pampering, shopping and prize giveaways from stores and other community organizations. Moms are invited to have fun at their favorite local shopping destination while enjoying FREE in-store events, makeovers, food sampling and prize drawings. Fun activities will be presented by retailers and other area businesses at Mall of Georgia, Northlake Mall and Town Center at Cobb.

Yoga for a Cure.

Yoga with Lisa Jones is teaming up with Road Runner Sports to bring awareness to Ovarian Cancer Research. Road Runner will donate $4 for each student who attends Yoga for a Cure on Thursday, May 9, 2013, from 9-10am. Get ready for a morning of incredible strengthening, lengthening and toning while supporting Ovarian Cancer Research. This FREE event will take place at Road Runner Sports, 1311 Johnson Ferry Road in East Cobb.

Brown Bag Concert Series. Grab your lunch at one of the many great restaurants around Marietta Square and meet your friends and coworkers at Glover Park every Thursday in May. 12-1pm. More info: 770-794-5601 or www.mariettaga.gov.

Do you know of an event happening around East Cobb? Email the details to events@eastcobber.com. Include “Event Listing” in the subject line. Stay on top of all the local fun and festivities when you “Like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/EASTCOBBER.

Filed Under: Kids & Family, [Featured], [PostToSocial] Tagged With: Community Events

On our May cover: EAST COBBER’s Mother of the Year, Cicley Gay

May 2, 2013 Leave a Comment

Featured on the cover this month is East Cobb resident Cicley Gay, EAST COBBER’s Mother of the Year. She is pictured with her sons: Micah, 9; and Malik, 12 who attend Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. Her oldest son, Markelle, 18, is not pictured because he attends a performing arts boarding school in Massachusetts.

“There are so many amazing moms in East Cobb . . . and to be honored among these moms is truly wonderful, “ says Cicley.

Cicley become a single mom when, in 2003, her husband died suddenly from a heart attack. Her son, Micah was only 6 months old. She supports the family by working at a nonprofit. The biggest challenge as a single mom is, “time and balance,” shares Cicley, “Making sure I show each of my children how much I love them individually and encouraging each of their gifts and talents.“

“Motherhood is God’s way of using me to create 3 miracles . . . to help shape their lives and see them turn into men. My youngest was very young when I lost my husband, but I see a piece of my husband in Micah. They are my 3 gifts.”

Following is the winning essay, written by Cicley’s eldest son, Markelle:
“Each time I see your Mother’s Day edition, I think about why my mom, Cicley, should be recognized as the Mom of the Year. Now that I am 18 years old, I’m excited to tell you about her. There are many amazing moms in East Cobb, but mine has been doing it on her own for the last eight years since our father passed away from a heart attack. I have two brothers, Malik, age 12; and Micah age 9 and instead of giving up, she works harder to make sure our dreams come true. I fell in love with acting when I was only 10. Because of her, I have been able to perform in musical productions all across the country. Her support helped me earn a merit scholarship to a performing arts boarding school in Boston. It was hard for her to see me leave,
but it was her love that allowed me to go. My brothers play lacrosse, basketball, baseball and football in East Cobb. They even started fencing last summer! My mom often drives 150+ miles each Saturday just to make it to all of their events. We jokingly say that you can hear her a mile away when she is cheering us on, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. If that isn’t enough, she is also on the Board of Directors at Mount Bethel Christian Academy, their school. Somehow, she still takes time to work full-time at a non-profit foundation, making sure that all us kids have the opportunity to be loved and mentored. I get tired just thinking about it! Thank you so much for reading my nomination, and for considering my mom for this honor. She really deserves it.”

(Reprinted from our May 2013 issue.)