🌱 Georgia Bans TikTok On Government Devices + Learn About Winter Wine

Hello, everybody. It's Friday in Smyrna-Vinings and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in the community.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 52 Low: 38.

⚡️ Attention, local business owners and marketers in Smyrna-Vinings! I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. If that's you, then I invite you to secure your spot now. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top three stories today in Smyrna-Vinings:

1. Cobb's Family Advocacy Center is a new organization devoted to helping victims and survivors of abuse. Located on Fairground Street, the center will provide resources as well as direct services for those seeking to escape abusive situations. The center is scheduled to officially open in April of 2023. It is the first location of its kind in the state of Georgia. (MDJOnline.com)
2. Georgia has become the latest state to ban the use of TikTok on government computers. This decision was made over concerns regarding the security of users' personal information, as the Chinese government could potentially gain access to the data. Governor Brian Kemp also banned the WeChat messaging app. He was joined in the decision by Chris Sununu of New Hampshire. (WSB Atlanta)
3. Love wines, but lack the knowledge? The Oenophile Institute is holding a wonderful session that will explain the subtle differences in wines that make them perfect for one dish but not another. Learn which winter wines will make the long, dark nights a little less ominous. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of and appreciation of the nuances of the wine world. (Oenophile Institute)

Today in Smyrna-Vinings:

• Wood & Canvas Workshop at AR Workshop Smyrna (6:30 PM)
• FNM Brothers War Booster Draft at Titan Games & Comics (6:30 PM)
• ATL Cigar Class At The Hideaway at CBD American Shaman Vinings (8:00 PM)
• DJ Ray at Varners Restaurant & Tavern (10:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Atlanta has been named one of the best places in the country for remote workers! Way to go! (Coworking Cafe)
• Naija Cuisine and Hookah House are hosting DJ Amala On The Spot! Come listen to his chill tunes while enjoying delicious Nigerian dishes. (AllEvents)
• The Smyrna Optimist Club invites you to come take pictures with Santa Claus! Donations will go to the Smyrna Safety Foundation's "Shop With A Hero" Program. (Smyrna GA)

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• Mableton city council and mayor elections March 21st (Details)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow with a new update.

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a senior writer with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.