🏀 Special Olympics Kicks Off + Your Winter Weekend Guide

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Was anyone else underwhelmed by the storm last week?! At one point they said it was going to be a foot of snow! But I suppose it being underwhelming is a good thing.

We’re planning on getting out there this weekend - here is our plan:

Friday night, the Special Olympics Georgia Winter Games kicks off at the Cobb Civic Center with over 3,000 athletes from across the state. If you've never been to an Opening Ceremony, it’s an amazing scene that makes you want to high-five strangers. And it's free!

For something quieter, Just Kiln' Time on the Square is our go-to when we need a screen-free Saturday. No reservations needed, and you walk out with something you actually made.

If you're feeling outdoorsy, the Aviation History & Technology Center is hiding in plain sight near Dobbins. Military planes, local history, and zero crowds.

Quick tip: The Full Moon Hike at Leone Hall Price Park Saturday night is $3 but fills fast. Register now if you want in.

Planner's below. See you out there.

- Andrew

Have an event to share? Reply to this email!

Cobb County Civic Center
548 S. Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30060
7:00 PM Fri, Jan 30, 2026
Cost: Free for attendees

If you want a feel-good, close-to-home Friday night that’s worth leaving the house for, the Special Olympics Georgia State Indoor Winter Games Opening Ceremony is it.

This weekend thousands of athletes, coaches, and Unified Partners head to to Cobb County Civic Center for the Indoor Winter Games (basketball, bowling, gymnastics, powerlifting, pickleball), and the Opening Ceremony is the big “kickoff moment.” If you love the energy of a live crowd - this is a great event for you.

Details: Special Olympics Georgia event page

For a bright, modern take on Southern comfort food, Reunion: Kitchen & Bar is the spot for you. It has quickly become a weeknight go-to for an easy healthy dinner - but its great for sitting down and eating too!

The menu mixes hearty favorites like shrimp & grits and fried chicken with creative seasonal dishes, and the lively bar keeps things social without getting too loud.

Brunch crowds love the mimosa flights and cinnamon roll skillet, while dinner regulars rave about the short ribs and craft cocktails.

The restaurant’s warm lighting, spacious booths, and friendly service make it feel equally suited for date night or a family meal.

Bonus: the patio is heated for cooler evenings, so you can still enjoy dining al fresco through the winter.

Details & menu: eatatreunion.com

_{This issue is sponsored by Peachy Insurance}

The “big freeze” last weekend was a good reminder that “normal winter weather” in Georgia can still turn into burst pipes, surprise water damage, dead car batteries, and roof/ice headaches fast. You wouldn’t believe how many calls we got from customers filing claims this week 😟, and luckily nobody was hurt!

If you haven’t looked at your home + auto coverage in a while, this is a smart week to do a quick check, before the next cold snap (or the first round of spring storms) shows up.

Peachy Insurance is an Atlanta-based company built to move quickly and keep things simple: fast quoting, clear explanations, and licensed professionals who’ll help check your coverage without the runaround.

A few quick things Peachy can help you review in 10–15 minutes:

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

If you’re looking for something screen-free, colorful, and creative to do on a chilly weekend, Just Kiln’ Time is a must-visit.

Located just a short drive from East Cobb on Marietta Square, this studio is recognized as Atlanta’s oldest paint-your-own pottery spot and has been a staple for local families for decades. I’ll never forget coming here for the first time when I was 8 years old - I had a BLAST.

The vibe is easygoing and genuinely joyful - shelves of pottery to choose from, paint tables buzzing with families, and staff who are great at helping even the most hesitant painters find their creative side.

Whether you're designing a custom mug, a seasonal ornament, or a keepsake plate, everything gets professionally glazed and fired, ready for pickup about a week later.

As a family-owned neighborhood hub, the studio is famous for its relaxed “open seating” policy, making it the perfect destination for a spontaneous afternoon out, a unique date night, or a creative birthday party.

💡 Pro tip: No reservations are needed for small groups! They welcome walk-ins anytime, but if you’re planning a birthday party or have a group of six or more, it’s best to call ahead to snag a large table.

Studio info & gallery: justkilntime.com

A new partnership between NAPA, Cobb Schools, and the Cobb Schools Foundation includes a $250,000 boost for students in the Automotive Pathways at the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA).

Cobb Schools says the funding will help provide tools and supplies, support scholarships, expand resources for teachers and students, and connect learners with industry mentoring.

The district also notes the new CITA location at Allatoona High School is on track to welcome students for 2026–2027.

Source: Cobb County School District

A proposal headed to Cobb school leaders would bring a new playground to East Side Elementary, with the bulk of funding coming from donations and a smaller portion from the district.

If approved, the refresh would replace aging equipment and give students a safer, more modern play space that can handle daily wear-and-tear.

Source: East Cobb News

If you’re considering a School Choice (HB 251) transfer for the 2026–2027 school year, Cobb’s application window is January 22 – February 13, 2026 (and the district notes no late applications after that period).

If requests exceed capacity at a school, the district will use a random lottery based on available space.

The district also lists separate windows for sibling transfers and children-of-employee transfers, so it’s worth double-checking which track fits your household.

Source: Cobb County School District

After more than a decade on the Square, Piastra has closed and is reopening as Asher & Rose, a specialty grocery + café concept built around locally sourced goods, prepared foods, and neighborhood convenience—while keeping familiar hospitality (and some favorites) in the mix.

The project is framed as a community-forward answer to a long-running gap in walkable grocery options around the Square.

If you’ve been rooting for a one stop shop for lunch + groceries, this is it!

Details: Atlanta Magazine | Asher & Rose

Cobb Collaborative continues expanding Mind Your Mind, its community mental-health initiative focused on awareness, resiliency, and stigma reduction.

If you’re looking for practical, shareable resources—especially for families, youth, and caregivers—the organization maintains a centralized set of tools and references you can browse (and pass along) any time.

It’s the kind of local “bookmark once, use all year” resource that matters most when a friend or family member suddenly needs it.

Explore: Mind Your Mind resources | Background: Cobb Chamber overview

Meet Ivy, a graceful, soft-spoken survivor with a heart full of love.

Rescued from a high-kill shelter while pregnant, this young mama showed nothing but patience and tenderness as she raised her kittens in safety, and now she’s ready for her own forever home.

Ivy is the definition of gentle. She’s calm, affectionate, and appreciates quiet spaces where she can curl up near her people. Once she knows she’s safe, she’ll melt into your hand for chin scratches and purr contentedly through long afternoon naps.

At around 8 pounds, she’s the perfect size for apartment living or a cozy family home. She’s spayed, vaccinated, house-trained, and gets along well with both kids and dogs, making her a great match for families who value calm, sweet company.

💡 Best fit: A mellow household that enjoys easy mornings, soft blankets, and low-key companionship. Ivy’s independent streak means she doesn’t demand constant attention, just steady love and a sunny windowsill.

Available through Homeless Pets Foundation

📍 1343 Gresham Rd, Marietta, GA 30062
📞 (770) 971-0100
✉️ [email protected]
Visits by appointment only
Profile: Petfinder — Ivy

📚 Preschool Storytime — East Cobb Library | 11:30 AM | Free | More: Event page
A simple, low-stress weekday reset for little ones — stories, songs, and just enough structure to feel like you “did something” before lunch.

🎟️ “A Dream Rooted in the Declaration” (Interactive Exhibit) — North Cobb Regional Library (Kennesaw) | Through Jan 31, during library hours | Free | More: Event page
All month long, visitors can add their own hopes and dreams to the library’s MLK-inspired “Dream Wall,” where excerpts from King’s speeches pair with the Declaration of Independence – a hands-on way to reflect on equality, freedom, and the American promise.

🎟️ Kids’ Book Swap (Drop-Off) — North Cobb Regional Library (Kennesaw) | Now through Feb 7, during library hours | Free | More: Event page
Refresh your little one’s library on the cheap: drop off gently-used children’s books now to earn swap tickets, then exchange those tickets for “new-to-you” books starting Feb. 9

🌿 Rain Garden Workday - Cobb Water Quality Lab (662 South Cobb Dr) | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Free | More: Rain Garden Workday
A great outdoor volunteer opportunity for the whole family. Help maintain the community rain garden while learning about local water stewardship. Confirm date with Cobb County.

🎟️ Special Olympics Winter Games Opening Ceremony — Cobb Civic Center (Marietta) | Fri Jan 30, 7:00 PM | Free | More: Event page
Kick off a weekend of inspiration as Cobb welcomes 3,000+ Special Olympics athletes from across Georgia – expect a parade of teams, plenty of high-fives, and an atmosphere that’s equal parts heartwarming and electric.

🪴 Little Shop of Horrors - Theatre in the Square (11 Whitlock Ave, Marietta) | 8:00 PM | Tickets | More: Marietta Theatre Company
Marietta Theatre Company kicks off its 2026 season with this cult-classic musical. It's high-energy, funny, and perfect for families with older kids and teens. Rated PG-13.

🧺 Family Garden Day — Switzer Library | 11 AM | Free | More: Event page
A hands-on, outdoorsy option that feels wholesome without being intense — great for kids who need dirt, space, and a little “let’s learn something” energy.

⚾ Crushin’ For A Cause (Celebrity Home Run Derby + festival-style fun) — Aviation Sports Complex (Marietta) | 12:30 PM gates open **| Ticketed $20+ | More: Event page
This one’s built for families: food, music, activities, and a big, buzzy finale with a celebrity home run derby vibe.

🥕 Marietta Square Farmers & Artisan Market - Marietta Square (41 Mill St) | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Free | More: Marietta Square Farmers Market
The winter market is in full swing. Browse local winter produce alongside handmade jewelry and crafts from the Artisan Market next door.

🎟️ Full Moon Hike — Leone Hall Price Park (West Cobb) | Sat Jan 31, 6:00–8:00 PM | $3 (registration required) | More: Event info
Experience this West Cobb park after dark on a guided nature walk lit by the full moon – dress warm, bring a flashlight, and enjoy an easy, family-friendly hike under the winter sky.

💃 Shen Yun - Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre | 2:00 PM | Tickets | More: Cobb Energy Centre
Experience 5,000 years of Chinese culture through incredible classical dance, live orchestral music, and stunning costumes. A visually stunning "bucket list" show for many families.

🎟️ First Free Sunday at Marietta Art Museum — Marietta Cobb Museum of Art (Marietta Square) | Sun Feb 1, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM | Free | More: Event page
Wander the galleries for free at MCMA’s monthly community day – including a juried exhibit of Georgia wood artisans and a brand-new solo show by local artist Maya Perez-Lugones exploring empathy and identity through vibrant layered paintings.

🎟️ Cobb SPLOST Community Meeting — Fullers Recreation Center (West Cobb) | Thu Jan 29, 6:00–8:00 PM | Free | More: Event page
If you’ve got opinions about roads, parks, libraries, or public safety projects, this is the “show up and weigh in” moment before the 2028 SPLOST list is finalized.

🍻 ShakesBEER: Pericles — The Alley Stage (Marietta Square) | 8:00 PM | Tickets $27.60 | More: Event page
Shakespeare, but rowdy. It’s a fun “go out on a Thursday” pick when you want something different than dinner and another round of scrolling.

🌟 Drag Bingo - Schoolhouse Brewing (840 Franklin Ct SE, Marietta) | 8:00 PM | Free to play | More: Schoolhouse Brewing
A high-energy night of bingo and performances hosted by Brent Star. Great for groups of friends or a unique date night. No reservations needed-arrive early to grab a seat and a pint.

😂 Comedy on the Square — The Alley Stage (Marietta Square) | Evening (see tickets for showtime) | Tickets | More: Event page
Your easiest grown-up night out: tight room, big laughs, and the kind of energy that makes Marietta Square feel like the place to be.

🧘 Wellness Week — Self-Care Happy Hour — Avenue East Cobb | 4:00–7:00 PM | Free to attend (specials vary) | More: Wellness Week details
A low-commitment Friday reset with mocktails and sampling — perfect if you want a “do something” plan that still feels chill.

😂 Comedy on the Square — The Alley Stage (Marietta Square) | Evening (see tickets for showtime) | Tickets | More: Event page
Same great concept, different night — ideal if Friday is stacked but you still want a guaranteed-fun Saturday plan.

💪 Wellness Week — Free Fitness Class in The Plaza — Avenue East Cobb | 10:00–11:00 AM | Free | More: Wellness Week details
A solid “start the weekend right” move — quick, community-friendly, and you’ll feel like you earned brunch afterward.

Hidden just beyond the fences of Dobbins Air Reserve Base, the Aviation History & Technology Center (AHTC) is one of those “how did I not know this was here?” spots. It is a hands-on, family-friendly museum that captures Cobb County’s deep aviation heritage.

Spread across a few grassy acres beside Lockheed Martin’s campus, the open-air collection includes more than a dozen restored military aircraft, each with a local story.

You’ll see everything from a towering C-141 Starlifter to the sleek F-101 Voodoo and a few experimental craft built right here in Marietta.

It’s an easy walk between planes, with plaques that explain what made each aircraft special - and volunteers (many retired pilots and engineers) eager to share first-hand stories about their days in the cockpit or on the tarmac.

While it’s technically a museum, it feels more like stepping into an outdoor classroom - part engineering lab, part living history site. Kids can peek into bomb bays, climb small steps to see cockpits up close, and watch planes take off from nearby Dobbins.

Visit right at opening for the best light on the planes (and fewer crowds). Bring coffee and make it a slow walk through the exhibits; volunteers often start guided talks mid-morning.

If you’ve got older kids or curious teens, ask about “Open Aircraft Days” - special weekends when visitors can actually step inside select planes. There’s also a shaded seating area perfect for a snack break while you watch C-130s flying overhead from Dobbins.

Free onsite parking right next to the exhibit area. Restrooms available inside the visitor building (open during operating hours).

Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10 AM-3 PM
Admission: Free or small donation suggested
Website: ahtc360.org
Map: Google Maps

We just went through a freeze, so this week is more about ensuring our homes are secure and ready for the next freeze. A few quick checks now can prevent getting a surprise on a cold Georgia night in the form of frozen pipes and a big mess.

One of our employee’s told us that their parents had a house fire that was started because a candle was too close to a curtain. They’re all ok, but its $180k of damage. Take this seriously!

Marine Plumbing Service
(770) 426-8060
marineplumbingservice.com

Mama Bear Dryer Vent Care
(404) 491-1531
mamabeardryerventcare.com

Cobb Air Incorporated
(770) 439-2665
cobbairincga.com

QUICK NOTE: After a freeze week, it’s also a smart time to check your home & auto coverage (deductible, water-damage scenarios, loss-of-use, roadside/rental). No pressure. Just clarity.

👉 peachyinsurance.com 👈

Love animals but can’t adopt right now? Cobb County Animal Services is welcoming new volunteers for 2026. Roles include dog walking, cat socialization, adoption event support, and photography. Training provided; ages 18+ (or 14+ with a parent).

➡️ Sign up: Application

Love books and want a low-commitment way to help your local branch? Cobb County Libraries are always looking for volunteers — common roles include shelving, donation/book-sale sorting, and greeter/self-checkout help. Volunteers must be 15+ (and 17+ may require a background check after acceptance).

➡️ More info: About page
➡️ Sign up: Application
➡️ Email: [email protected]

Cobb Schools’ Community Mentoring Program pairs caring adults with middle and high school students for weekly one-on-one sessions. Just one hour a week can make a lasting difference.

➡️ Info: About page
➡️ Sign up: Application

Even if you can’t commit full-time, the Homeless Pets Foundation (home of Ivy!) always needs foster homes, transport help, and hands at weekend adoption events in Marietta.

➡️ Volunteer info: About page and application