MARIETTA, GA -- This January marks a very special double feature event for The Strand Theatre.

"We have the opportunity to celebrate two legends: the two-year birthday of the reopening of the Earl Smith Strand Theatre and the 80th birthday of the theatre's namesake, Earl Smith," said Strand executive director Earl Reece.

The Strand Theatre (117 North Park Square, Marietta, 30060) opened its doors in 1935, providing movie entertainment to thousands before closing its doors as a movie house in 1976. After serving as a variety of venues, a "FOR RENT" sign was placed in the box office window.

Earl Smith saw the weathered and time-ravaged Strand and envisioned her classic beauty restored at the center of a thriving community. With the assistance of many volunteers, he organized the nonprofit Friends of the Strand, Inc.

Celebrating its seventh year, the Brookhaven Arts Festival, returns to Apple Valley Road. Constant with their claim that they “bring communities together”, Brookhaven Bank will present this festival free of charge and it offers a little something for everyone.

On Saturday and Sunday, October 16th and 17th, the festival will be take place directly behind the Brookhaven-Oglethorpe MARTA station (between North Druid Hills and Dresden Drive). More than 125 juried artists will be displaying and marketing their fine arts.

KENNESAW, GA -- The Kennesaw State University College of the Arts will present its annual Flourish Awards at the third annual Flourish Luncheon on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 11:30 a.m. at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

More than 200 guests are expected to attend the luncheon, which is anticipated to raise more than $100,000 to benefit scholarship endowments and student-learning initiatives in the KSU College of the Arts. The event's theme, "Be Inspired," spotlights the role the arts play in reinvigorating people through creative activity and new ways of looking at the world.

"At this year's luncheon, we are really highlighting our students," said Joseph Meeks, who has served as the dean of the college since its inception in 1998. "Guests will be able to experience the talent and dedication of the students through displays, videos and live performances."

The Flourish Awards honor those who have helped the arts flourish in Georgia.