📚 Book Sale Weekend + Free Shredding

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What's up, neighbors!

If you've got nothing going on tonight, head over to Avenue East Cobb. They're doing their Avenue Shamrock celebration in The Plaza from 6 to 8. No need to register or buy tickets, its free and all you need to do is just show up! Live music, Irish dancing from the Drake School, and real life llamas on site. It's a low-key way to get into the St. Patrick's Day spirit without getting drunk off your keester.

For the weekend, the Cobb Library Spring Book Sale runs Friday through Sunday at the Civic Center. Saturday tends to be the best day to go, before the good stuff gets picked over. We're planning to hit that in the morning and then walk over to the Farmers Market on the Square.

Also Saturday morning: the City of Marietta is doing a free document shredding event at Elizabeth Porter Park from 9 to noon. If you've had a box of old tax returns and bank statements sitting in a closet for two years, this is finally your excuse to get rid of them. Most people are in and out in under 10 minutes.

Sunday the book sale wraps up with BYOB day. Bring a box, fill it, pay a flat rate. If you love books, that's a pretty satisfying way to close out the weekend.

Honestly - a pretty “sleepy” weekend, so don’t be afraid to get some rest and stay in either!

Full weekend planner is below, along with some local news, a restaurant we've been meaning to tell you about, and a few listings if you're watching the market.

- Andrew

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_{This issue is sponsored by Peachy Insurance}

You're about to get some money back from the state. Before you spend it, spend five minutes making sure the stuff you already own is actually protected.

Georgia's new tax rebate means $250 back for single filers and $500 for couples. The homeowner relief grant could save you another $500 on property taxes. That's real money. And a good reminder to check whether your coverage still matches what you've got.

Here's what we mean: if your home's value has gone up (and in East Cobb, it probably has), your dwelling limit may not reflect what it would actually cost to rebuild. If you bought a car in the last year or two, your auto policy might still be based on the old one. These gaps don't show up until something goes wrong.

Spring is also when severe weather picks back up in north Georgia. Hail, wind, fallen trees. The claims we see most often are the ones people assumed they were covered for but weren't.

Peachy Insurance is Atlanta-based, licensed, and built to make this painless. No runaround, no upselling. Just a straight answer on where you stand.

A few things worth checking while it's on your mind:

Get a quote or coverage review here: peachyinsurance.com OR text/call us 404-600-1660 (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

Cobb Civic Center, Marietta
Fri & Sat 9AM–5PM
Sun 1–5PM
10¢–$4 per item
Learn More

The Cobb County Public Library's Spring Book Sale is back! Books for all ages in hardcover and paperback, plus DVDs, books on CD, magazines, and puzzles, all priced from a dime to four bucks. Spring break reading, beach bag fillers, rainy day stack-ups, that random cookbook you've been meaning to try. It's all there for basically nothing.

The selection covers all ages and interests so there's something for everyone. Whether you're shopping for a new reader or stocking up for yourself, you're likely to walk out with something good.

Sunday is BYOB aka Bring Your Own Box Day. Pack whatever fits in a box you can physically carry back to your car and pay one flat rate: $10 for upper level only, $20 for lower level, or $20 for a mix of both. Regulars show up with the biggest box they can find. You should too.

Every dollar from this sale goes straight back to funding the library's 15 branches and the bookmobile. Good cause, cheap books, free parking. See you there.

This is my go-to when I want a solid burger and a cold beer without driving far. It's in the strip mall off Lower Roswell, and inside it's got that classic sports bar feel with big screens everywhere. Good for watching a game, grabbing lunch, or a casual dinner with the family.

The S&S Smash Burger is what I keep going back for. The crab dip is worth ordering as a starter too. If you're more of a salad person, the Tavern Salad gets good marks. Weekend brunch is a thing here if you didn't know, and the kids buffet with chicken fingers and fries makes it easy with little ones. They do weekend brunch Saturday and Sunday, which is a nice option if you want something low-key close to home.

📍 4880 Lower Roswell Rd, Suite 850, Marietta
Price: $$
Hours:
Mon-Thu 11am-10pm
Fri 11am-11pm
Sat 10am-11pm
Sun 10am-10pm
⚠️ Heads up: Service inconsistency shows up in reviews pretty regularly, especially during busy times. A few people mention long waits to even get a server. Worth knowing if you're going on a Friday night.
mccraystavern.com/east-cobb

If you've been defaulting to Amazon for birthday gifts, I encourage you to try something new. Learning Express on Johnson Ferry is locally owned, and the staff actually knows what's on the shelves.

They call themselves "Toy Experts," and from what people say, that's not a stretch.

You'll find things here that you won't find at Target. LEGO sets, Squishmallows, science kits, slime, fidgets, blind boxes, and games worth playing as a family. They demo stuff in the store so kids can try before you buy, and the free gift wrapping is genuinely nice, not just tissue paper stuffed in a bag.

It skews younger, so if you're shopping for teenagers you may need to look harder. But for elementary-age kids and under, it's one of the better places in the neighborhood to find a gift that doesn't feel like you just grabbed whatever was on sale.

Price: $$
Hours:
Mon–Sat 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Sun 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Website: alpharetta-eastcobb.learningexpress.com

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has signed the state's amended FY 2026 budget, putting real money back in residents' pockets. The package includes an income tax rebate of $250 for single filers and $500 for married couples filing jointly, funded out of the state's surplus. Homeowners get additional relief through the Homeowner Tax Relief Grant, which is expected to save eligible homeowners around $500 on their 2026 property taxes. The budget passed the House 169-2 before heading to Kemp's desk.

K-12 teachers and school staff are also in line for a $2,000 one-time bonus, and the state's income tax rate is being reduced from 5.19% to 4.99% under a companion bill. Rebates are expected to be distributed similarly to prior years, via direct deposit or mailed check. Keep an eye on your Georgia Department of Revenue account for timing updates.

More: CBS Atlanta | WABE

Avenue East Cobb is hosting its Avenue Shamrock celebration this Thursday, March 12, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in The Plaza. The free, family-friendly event features live music, complimentary face painting, a live Irish dance performance by the Drake School of Irish Dance, and yes, actual huggable llamas on site. Themed drinks from Peach State Pizza and Round Trip Brewing, plus festive eats from New York Butcher, round things out for the adults.

If you want a low-key way to get the family into the St. Patrick's Day spirit before the actual holiday hits, this is your spot. No tickets, no registration, just show up.

More: Avenue East Cobb

Press Waffle Co., the Belgian-style waffle concept that made its East Cobb debut in 2022 after national exposure on ABC's Shark Tank, quietly closed its Avenue East Cobb location in February. Owners Keith and Niki Ginel confirmed the closure on Instagram, saying their last day of service was February 12 and thanking the community for their support over three-plus years. No reason was given. The closure makes Press Waffle the third restaurant to exit Avenue in recent months, following Tin Lizzy's and Tin Pin Game Bar.

The good news: that jewel box space won't stay empty forever. Tenku Sushi Elevation, the sister location to the popular Woodstock original, has been actively hiring staff and signaling a near-term opening on social media. The menu will feature nigiri, sashimi, signature rolls, robata grill items, and flame-seared marinated octopus. No official opening date has been announced yet.

More: East Cobb News

The Cobb County Seed Library is back for its 2026 season, and the East Cobb Library is one of four pickup locations countywide. You can grab up to three free seed packets per day through June 4, 2026 while supplies last. The selection includes vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, all chosen for what grows well in this region.

Spring planting windows are opening up, so now is the time to pick up a few packets and get something in the ground. Last year, over 3,600 packets went out to local gardeners across Cobb County. No registration required.

More: Atlanta on the Cheap

She's two years old but acts like she just discovered the world ten minutes ago. Pearl is a black Lab and Pit mix with a whole lot of energy, a whole lot of affection, and zero interest in slowing down. If you want a dog that will actually play with you, she's the one.

She's house-trained, vaccinated, spayed, and good with kids and other dogs as long as introductions are done right. She loves giving kisses and has a loyal, protective streak once she bonds with you. She's also independent enough that she won't fall apart if you leave the room.

A couple of things to know going in: Pearl resource guards her food and treats, so she eats separately from other animals. She has a high prey drive, which means no cats or small animals. She also tested heartworm positive, but Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue is covering treatment costs completely for whoever adopts her.

To start the process, submit an inquiry through Petfinder and Freedom Bridge will reach out from there. No walk-in location since they're a rescue org.

Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue
Kingsland, GA (foster-based rescue)
[email protected]
(904) 800-8278
Hours: Please contact organization for hours
More: View on Petfinder

📚 Cobb Library Spring Book Sale - Cobb Civic Center (548 S Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta) | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Huge selection of gently used books, DVDs, puzzles, and more. Easy drop-in.

🧱 Lego Free Play - Switzer Library (266 Roswell St, Marietta) | 4:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Open build time for kids ages 5–12. Good "after school / after dinner" plan.

🖼️ Marietta City Schools Student Art Exhibit - Switzer Library (266 Roswell St, Marietta) | During library hours | Free | More: Event info
A quick, free "walk and look" stop while you are already at the library.

🎨 The Robinson Perspective: A Creative Journey Exhibit - North Cobb Regional Library (3535 Old 41 Hwy, Kennesaw) | During library hours | Free | More: Event info
Art exhibit on view through March 28. Easy add-on to errands.

📦 Teen BOOK'D Bags (Sign-ups) - Cobb County Public Library | 11:00 AM | Free | More: Event info
Teens sign up for a personalized book bundle to pick up at their chosen branch later.

🐝 9th Annual Adult Spelling Bee - The Strand Theatre (117 N Park Square, Marietta) | VIP 5:30 PM / General 7:00 PM | $25 GA / $75 VIP | More: Event info
Teams in full costume compete to benefit Communities in Schools of Cobb. Last year raised over $125K. A genuinely fun night on the Square.

🥕 Marietta Square Farmers Market - North Park Square (41 Mill St, Marietta) | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Classic Saturday morning outing. Snacks, flowers, and easy browsing.

📚 Cobb Library Spring Book Sale - Cobb Civic Center (548 S Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta) | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Same big sale, new finds. Bring a tote.

🌿 Hyde Farm Walking Tour - Hyde Farm Park (726 Hyde Rd, Marietta) | 10:00 AM & 11:00 AM | Free (registration required) | More: Event info
A 45-minute guided walk through 135 acres of farmland dating back to the 1840s, right here in East Cobb along the Chattahoochee. Runs every 2nd Saturday.

🫧 Family Storytime - Gritters Library (880 Shaw Park Rd, Marietta) | 10:30 AM | Free | More: Event info
Stories, songs, and bubbles for ages 0–5 with a caregiver.

✂️ Saturday Storycraft! - West Cobb Regional Library (1750 Dennis Kemp Ln, Kennesaw) | 11:00 AM | Free | More: Event info
Storytime plus a simple craft. Best for little kids.

🛡️ Teen Cybersecurity Class - Switzer Library (266 Roswell St, Marietta) | 3:00 PM | Free (registration required) | More: Event info
Practical online safety basics for teens. Limited space.

🥕 Marietta Square Farmers Market (Sunday) - North Park Square (41 Mill St, Marietta) | 12:00 PM–3:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
A lower-key market day that works well after brunch.

📚 Cobb Library Spring Book Sale (Sunday) - Cobb Civic Center (548 S Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta) | 1:00 PM–5:00 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Sunday is BYOB day. Fill-a-box pricing makes it fun for book-loving families.

🍀 St. Patrick's Day Celebration - Glover Park Brewery (65 Atlanta St SE, Marietta) | 12:30 PM–9:00 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Big daytime block with music and a food truck. Easy drop-in.

📦 Teen BOOK'D Bags (Sign-ups) - Cobb County Public Library | 11:00 AM | Free | More: Event info
Last-minute Sunday sign-up reminder for teens who want a curated bag.

🖼️ Marietta City Schools Student Art Exhibit - Switzer Library (266 Roswell St, Marietta) | During library hours | Free | More: Event info
A free indoor option if you want something calm.

📚 Escape to the Past: a History Book Club - Switzer Library (266 Roswell St, Marietta) | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Monthly history book club. Good for anyone who wants a friendly, low-pressure discussion.

🕵️ True Crime: The Corpsewood Manor Murders - North Cobb Senior Center (3900 S Main St, Acworth) | 1:00 PM | Free (registration required) | More: Event info
A Friday the 13th themed talk focused on forensic evidence.

🎶 Funk It Friday + Food Truck - Glover Park Brewery (65 Atlanta St SE, Marietta) | 2:00 PM–11:55 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Live music + an easy hang on the Square. Come early if you want a seat.

🥾 Trail Club Workday (Volunteer) - Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park (900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr, Kennesaw) | 8:00 AM–12:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
A productive morning outside. Good if you want to volunteer close to home.

🍻 Bubbles & Brews Double Stamp Day - Schoolhouse Brewing (840 Franklin Ct, Marietta) | 12:00 PM–11:00 PM | Free entry | More: Event info
Double stamps in your BrewPass plus two new St. Patrick's releases: Irish Goodbye (Irish Red) and Come As You Are (cranberry-pomegranate Berliner Weisse).

🎷 Jazz Concert: The Hibbard/Wright Project - Rena Henton Theatre at Acworth Roberts School (Acworth) | 7:30 PM–9:30 PM | Tickets ($28) | More: Event info
A solid "real night out" option without driving into Atlanta.

🎶 Chi-Town Transit Authority (Chicago Tribute) - The Strand Theatre (117 N Park Square, Marietta) | 8:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Eight-piece band covering 40 years of Chicago hits with a tight horn section and three vocalists. A real "night out" without driving into Atlanta.

Elizabeth Porter Park, 370 Montgomery St NE, Marietta 30060

What it is: The City of Marietta and Keep Marietta Beautiful are hosting a free on-site document shredding event at Elizabeth Porter Park. You pull up, hand over your documents, and watch them get fed into a professional shredding truck right there in the parking lot. It's fast, it's secure, and it's one of those things that's genuinely satisfying to finally cross off the list. If you've got a box (or three) of old tax returns, medical bills, bank statements, or anything with your name and account numbers on it sitting in a closet, this is your Saturday morning.

What to bring: Paper documents only. Think bank and credit card statements, medical bills, checks, letters, and anything with personal or sensitive information on it. The shredder handles staples, so you don't need to pull those out. Do remove paper clips, binder clips, and folders before you go. Glossy paper, magazines, junk mail, and newspapers are not accepted, so don't just dump the whole recycling bin in a box.

Cost: Free. Donations are welcome and go toward future community programs, but there's no pressure and no minimum.

Timing: Saturday, March 14 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Three hours goes faster than you'd think for an event like this, especially if word gets out. Showing up closer to 9 than to noon is the smarter move.

Plan around it: Elizabeth Porter Park has a playground and open green space, so if you're bringing kids along, they've got somewhere to be while you handle the errand. The whole drop-off process is quick. Most people are in and out in under 10 minutes. It's an easy add-on to a Saturday morning that's already in motion.

More info: mariettaga.gov
Questions: 770-794-5609 or [email protected]

If you are renting a car for spring break, take two minutes before you click purchase. This is one of the easiest places to pay for coverage you already have, or skip coverage you actually need.

Start with your auto policy. Most personal auto policies extend liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage to a rental car, but the details vary. Call your agent or check your declarations page to confirm you have all three, and ask whether your coverage applies to the type of rental you are getting. Also worth knowing: most personal policies only extend coverage within the U.S. and Canada, so if your trip takes you outside those borders, do not assume you are covered.

Next, check your credit card. Many cards offer rental coverage, but it is often secondary, meaning your personal auto policy pays first and the card picks up what remains. It also typically only activates if you decline the rental company's damage waiver at the counter. Before you count on it, confirm whether your coverage is primary or secondary, what countries or vehicle types are excluded, and whether it covers loss of use charges and towing fees.

Last thing people forget: what happens if the rental is damaged and the company bills you for downtime, towing, or diminished value. Those charges can add up fast, and they are not always covered by your personal policy or your credit card. If you are not sure your coverage handles those extras, that is when the rental company's damage waiver may be worth it.

Helpful resource: https://www.iii.org/article/rental-car-insurance
Learn more: https://peachyinsurance.com/

Not every job board is worth your time. Here are the employers and resources locals actually use to find steady work close to home.

Cobb County Government — Parks, public works, IT, finance, and more. Full benefits, retirement, and paid leave. Openings turn over regularly. Browse: governmentjobs.com/careers/cobbcounty

Cobb County Schools — Goes well beyond teaching. Paraprofessionals, bus drivers, food service, custodians, IT support, and clerical staff. Health insurance and retirement included. Browse: cobbk12.org/employment-opportunities

WellStar Health System — One of the largest local employers. Many non-clinical roles in scheduling, patient access, front-desk support, and medical records. Good for career changers and parents wanting weekday hours. Browse: careers.wellstar.org/search-jobs

Part-Time Work (Indeed filter) — Pre-filtered for part-time roles near Marietta and East Cobb. Most consistent in retail, food service, healthcare support, and childcare. Skip any listing that won't show you the pay range upfront. Browse: Indeed — East Cobb Part-Time

Cobb County Sheriff's Office — Deputy starting salary $54K/year with a $4,000 hiring incentive (limited time). Lateral hires can qualify for $8,000. Also hiring civilian staff in communications, detention support, and admin. Benefits include tuition reimbursement and a free employee health clinic. Browse: cobbsheriff.org/careers