James September-October 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 17
SelectCobb is a Chamber initiative that creates
entrepreneurship opportunities through incubator
partnerships. Consider that, since its inception 12
years ago, SelectCobb has brought 48,000 high-quality jobs to Cobb and more than $6.3 billion in private
business investment.
Culture and Growth
My wife Cecilie and I have been involved with
the Marietta Arts Council for several years and have
grown to learn that art, in all forms, brings daily joy
to our diverse cities, promotes economic prosperity
and bolsters tourism for the community. The executive director of the Marietta Arts Council and our
friend, Abby Smith, says, “Anyone can get immersed
in the arts, whether you seek public art installations,
murals, or our sculpture tour that rotates annually.”
She elaborated, “Marietta offers so many opportunities to play a part in its rich artistic culture, and residents and visitors alike value that.” Well said, Abby.
An interactive art festival known as Trailfest
that began in 2018 has grown into an annual May
community-wide event along the Mountain to River
Trail. A traveling art gallery is displayed on the trail
adjacent to Marietta Square for two months before it
moves to other city parks throughout the year for everyone in Cobb to enjoy. Chalktoberfest has become
one of the most popular and well-attended festivals
in the fall, and it features world-renowned artists
displaying their talents on the street with elaborately
detailed chalk art. We also have many assets in Cobb
to pursue your passion for theatre, including Cobb
Energy Performing Arts Center, Mable House Barnes
Amphitheater, and smaller but equally great venues
like the Strand and Alley Stage. Walking around
many cities in Cobb, you will notice the plentitude of
vivid murals beautifying the walls of buildings and
hardscapes that genuinely enhance and elevate your
mood the instant you interact with the artwork.
Marietta Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin exclaims
via email that “Marietta is in a period of unprecedented progress, and to support this success the city has
improved infrastructure and enhanced public spaces-- including streets, sidewalks, and trails.” He continued, “Innovation and technology are being used
to assure the highest levels of service are provided
to the community by the city.” (I utilize the city’s
Trash Talk app, which updates you on pick-up dates
for garbage and yard waste.) The mayor also says,
“Marietta is a sophisticated, full-service city with a
small-town feel. It is a special place that people put
roots down and never want to leave.”
S E PT E M B E R/O C TO BER 2024
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