Jan. 24—Caffeine & Octane returns to Town Center at Cobb mall on Feb. 5

Town Center at Cobb mall, 400 Ernest Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw, will have Caffeine and Octane back for another car show on Feb. 5 from 9 a.m. to noon.

The free, family-friendly event, featuring a pre-1998 classic Ford and Fiat theme, will showcase over 1,000 vehicles in the parking lot near Belk and JCPenney. During Caffeine and Octane, the mall opens early at 11 a.m.

It is rain or shine. Spaces are first come first serve to exhibit a privately-owned vehicle.

For more information, visit caffeineandoctane.com/about-caffeine-and-octane or towncenteratcobb.com.

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The Avenue West Cobb hosts Pours and S'mores, Chocolatey Hot Trot 5K

The Avenue West Cobb will host its Pour and S'mores event on Jan. 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. and the Chocolatey Hot Trot 5K event on Jan. 28 at 8 a.m.

The Pour and S'mores event will feature special winter-themed drinks, personal s'mores kits to enjoy around the outdoor fire pit and live music from Andrew Weaver, a local musician. The event will take place at Gibney's Tavern, an upscale bar and grill that joined The Avenue West Cobb in June 2022.

Attendees of the First Annual ZenEvo Trot for Chocolate 5K will receive a protein pack, race day shirt, ZenEvo dark chocolate and a finisher's medal. Participants can pick up their packets as early as 6:30 a.m., and the race will start at 8 a.m., followed by an awards ceremony.

The first, second and third place men and women runners will receive a 30 days' supply of ZenEvo chocolate, and winners in each age bracket will win a seven days' supply. Those interested in attending the 5K should register in advance.

For more information, visit https://www.avenuewestcobb.com.

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Civil War Roundtable of Cobb County February meeting

The Civil War Roundtable of Cobb County will meet on Feb. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center, 500 Powder Springs Street in Marietta.

Gordon Ramsey will discuss "Ballooning in the Civil War: How the Air Force Really Began."

The CWRTCC meets the first Thursday of each month and serves as a membership organization available to the public. The CWRTCC encourages the study, analysis and appreciation of the events, personalities, records and publications associated with the American Civil War.

First time visitors are free. Yearly dues are $45 per person or $65 per couple.

The CWRTCC will also have a book sale prior to the meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Hundreds of Civil War related books for the avid collector are for sale.

For more information, visit cobbcivilwarrt@gmail.com.

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Austell to Black Authors Forum

In observation of Black History Month, the City of Austell will host a Black Authors Forum on Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Threadmill complex, 5000 Austell Powder Springs Road, Suite 175 in Austell.

Community members are invited to enjoy an event full of literary sharing. Local authors will read excerpts from their respective books for children, teens and adults.

Books will be available for purchase. An informative genealogy workshop will also be available to provide attendees with resources to research their family history.

Austell is still looking for authors with teen/young adult specific subject matter. For more information, contact Debbie Antoniou at dantoniou@austellga.gov.

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Local organization to host Dementia-Friendly Community 2023 Campaign

The Alzheimer's and Dementia Foundation will kick off its 2023 "Dementia Friendly Community" campaign on Jan. 25 at 11:30 a.m. the Switzer Library.

This event will include a luncheon and informational discussion. During this session, attendees will have an opportunity to learn about the services presently offered by the Alzheimer's and Dementia Foundation, be presented with an overview of the plan in making the community a "Dementia Friendly" community and hear about all the resources that are currently available locally.

The event will also focus on new direct-impact initiatives offered by the foundation. These programs have been designed carefully to address Alzheimer's and Dementia care activities for the client and the caregiver.

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Learn about Antioch and Due West Road improvements

The Cobb County Department of Transportation will host a community meeting on Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. at the West Cobb Senior Center, 4915 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs.

The meeting concerns safety and operational improvements at the intersection of Antioch Road at Due West Road in Acworth. The community can learn more about the county's plans and see various concepts that aim to make the corridor safer.

For those unable to attend this meeting, public input will be accepted until Feb. 17.

For more information, visit https://www.cobbcounty.org/transportation/news/due-west-road-antioch-road-improvements-public-information-open-house.

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Mental Health Town Hall convenes Jan. 26

Join the Cobb Youth Commission for a Mental Health Town Hall on Jan. 26 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Papa Johns corporate offices in The Battery, 788 Circle 75 Parkway in the Cumberland area.

This is a forum for the Cobb County youth to discuss teen struggles with social media, friendships, anxiety around the future after graduation and learn where to go for advice and help. There will be a panel of speakers, resources and engaging discussions to generate ideas about awareness and change. Pizza will be served.

To RSVP, visit https://form.jotform.com/223555546628161. For more information, visit https://www.cobbcounty.org/board/events/cobb-youth-commission-mental-health-town-hall.

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Oglesby Road railroad crossing closed to traffic for a week

Norfolk Southern Railroad will have Oglesby Road at the railroad crossing closed daily from Jan. 24-27 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents should use the downtown Powder Springs railroad overpass or follow the posted detour.

For more information, visit http://www.cobbcommute.org/1419.

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Online meeting to combat teen vaping and opioid use

Join an online town hall meeting on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. through Facebook Live to discuss youth vaping and opioid issues in the county.

The event is hosted by Cobb and Douglas Public Health, Cobb County School District, Marietta City Schools and Cobb County Government.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/562196915950979/.

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Free pet adoptions on Jan. 30

Cobb County Animal Services will have an adoption event on Jan. 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1060 Al Bishop Drive in Marietta.

These pets are certified pre-owned and free for every customer who visits. The multi-point inspections include spay/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. No appointment needed.

Residents can browse the selection online at CobbCounty.org/pets.

Those that can't make it on Jan. 30 can still take a pet home. Dogs weighing 25 pounds or more and all cats are $20.23 in January.

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Damage assistance here for tornado victims

Households impacted by the tornado that pushed through the Austell area this month can contact a Home Cleanup Hotline at 470-201-5701.

This service through the Red Cross can help with emergency repairs. The services are free, but with damage across the state, they are limited.

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Making sweets for your sweetie

Registration is open for the Cobb PARKS Valentine's Day Themed Cookie Decorating Class on Feb. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ward Recreation Center, 4845 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs.

Register at https://www.cobbcounty.org/parks.

For more information, call 770-528-8885 or email tara.vroman@cobbcounty.org.

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AARP Foundation TaxAide offering free income tax preparation Feb. 1 to April 18

AARP Foundation TaxAide volunteers will be preparing income taxes for free from Feb. 1 to April 18 by appointment for low-to-moderate income taxpayers.

Membership in AARP is not required. Taxes will be prepared by IRS-certified tax counselors with free confidential electronic filing.

Participants should bring their 2021 tax return and their 2022 tax documents. Each taxpayer must present Social Security cards or other legal identification for themselves and all dependents. For direct deposit refunds, the taxpayer must have a valid check.

Locations for 2023 are:

— The Senior Wellness Center, 1150 Powder Springs Street in Marietta, on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email ccswc.taxaide@gmail.com or call 678-439-7230.

— Gritters Library, 880 Shaw Park Road in Marietta, on Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email gritterstaxes@gmail.com.

— East Cobb Library, 4880 Lower Roswell Road in Marietta, on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email eclib.taxaide@gmail.com.

— Ward Recreation Center, 4845 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs, on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email wardrctaxes@gmail.com.

— Mt. View Library, 3320 Sandy Plains Road in Marietta, on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email taxaide.mtnview@gmail.com.

— Switzer Library, 266 Roswell Street in Marietta, on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Email switzertaxes@gmail.com.

— Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive in Kennesaw, on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. or come to site to schedule an appointment. Email taxesrobertson@gmail.com.

— Smyrna Community Center, 200 Village Green Circle in Smyrna, on Wednesdays in February come to site to schedule an appointment.

— Wolfe Adult Recreation Center, 884 Church Street in Smyrna, on Wednesdays in March and April come to site to schedule an appointment.

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Powder Springs Town Hall meeting is Jan. 24

The City of Powder Springs will have a Town Hall meeting on Jan. 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Ford Center Reception Hall, 4181 Atlanta Street in Powder Springs.

There will be an overview of the 2022 highlights, the city's development journey and looking ahead followed by a Q&A session.

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Tickets on sale Jan. 27 for comedian Trey Kennedy

Tickets will go on sale on Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com for comedian Trey Kennedy's July 1 show at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway in the Cumberland area.

Following the momentum from his "Are You For Real?" debut comedy special, Kennedy will be embarking on his Grow Up tour.

For more information, visit cobbenergycentre.com.

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Lunch and Learn: Avoid Downsizing Problems

The Tim D. Lee Senior Center, 3332 Sandy Plains Road in Marietta, will have Lunch and Learn: Avoid Downsizing Problems on Jan. 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Participants can learn how to avoid the pitfalls involved with moving into a smaller space and how to find joy for the journey. Lunch is provided by Sterling Estates Senior Living. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-509-4900 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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What You Didn't Know About Your Public Library

The West Cobb Senior Center, 4915 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs, will have What You Didn't Know About Your Public Library on Jan. 24 from 10 to 11 a.m.

This class is for anyone who wants to get the most out of the public library. There is so much one can access for free, like local and national newspapers, genealogy resources and passes one can borrow for free access to state parks, the Atlanta Zoo and the Alliance Theater. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-528-8200 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Culinary Creations: Fast Food Revolution

The North Cobb Senior Center, 3900 South Main Street in Acworth, will have Culinary Creations: Fast Food Revolution on Jan. 25 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Participants will learn about the history of fast food, led predominately by McDonald's, the innovation that changed farming and food distribution, and learn how to make the healthy copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe.

Cost is $3. Registration is required.

For more information, call 770-975-7740 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Cobb County Special Operations: What Does That Entail?

The Senior Wellness Center, 1150 Powder Springs Street in Marietta, will have Cobb County Special Operations: What Does That Entail? on Jan. 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Ever wondered what Special Operations does? Participants can listen to Capt. Steine, the Assistant Commander of the Cobb County Police Department Special Operations, give an overview of all the different departments that are in this elite division. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-528-5355 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Lunch and Learn: Caring for Your Home

The Tim D. Lee Senior Center, 3332 Sandy Plains Road in Marietta, will have Lunch and Learn: Caring for Your Home on Jan. 25 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Participants can find out what to know and look for at their home to avoid costly repairs. Participants will learn tips and tricks of preventive maintenance. The event is presented by Phoenix Real Estate Solutions. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-509-4900 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Peace of Mind Workshop

The Tim D. Lee Senior Center, 3332 Sandy Plains Road in Marietta, will have the Peace of Mind Workshop on Jan. 25 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Participants can join a discussion on wills, living wills, power of attorney and pre-planning documents. The event is presented by Mayes Ward Dobbins. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-509-4900 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Franz Schubert, the First 'Bohemian' Composer

The West Cobb Senior Center, 4915 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs, will have Franz Schubert, the First 'Bohemian' Composer on Jan. 25 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Imagine writing over 300 songs, nine symphonies, countless pieces of Chamber Music and Religious Music — and dying at age 31. Such is the brilliance of Franz Schubert. Participants will discuss his masterful 'art songs,' where the piano becomes equal in importance to the singer, not just mere accompaniment. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-528-8200 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Eating Healthy in the New Year

The North Cobb Senior Center, 3900 South Main Street in Acworth, will have Eating Healthy in the New Year on Jan. 26 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Fresh, frozen or canned, which option should you choose? Is one option healthier than another? Participants can join representatives from the Cobb County UGA Cooperative Extension Service to explore the possibilities. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-975-7740 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Tech Talk: Apple Watch

The West Cobb Senior Center, 4915 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs, will have Tech Talk: Apple Watch on Jan. 26 from 10 to 11 a.m.

The Apple Watch is the most popular smartwatch on the market, and is designed to work seamlessly with other Apple products like the iPhone. But despite its small size, the Apple Watch has a lot of features and a lot of functions. Those that just bought an Apple Watch or are considering a purchase, can learn how it works in this class. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-528-8200 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Armchair Travel: San Francisco, Then and Now

The North Cobb Senior Center, 3900 South Main Street in Acworth, will have Armchair Travel: San Francisco, Then and Now on Jan. 27 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Participants can explore San Francisco, California, a city that lies between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. Participants can discuss how the city was the "hip and happening counter-culture of the 1960s" and the hot spots that draw thousands of tourists today. Free, but registration is required.

For more information, call 770-975-7740 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.

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Taste of Italy with John

The Senior Wellness Center, 1150 Powder Springs Street in Marietta, will have two sessions of Taste of Italy with John on Jan. 27 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 to 2 p.m.

John is in the kitchen showing participants how to make a company-worthy meal that can be served on a weeknight. On the menu will be Chicken Milanese with Arugula Salad. Samples will be provided. Cost is $11. Registration is required.

For more information, call 770-528-5355 or visit www.CobbSeniors.org.