Podcasts about Cobb

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 23rd Publish Date:  January 23rd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 23rd and Happy Birthday to Earl Falconer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 8 STORY 1: KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions  Hundreds of Kennesaw State students walked out of class Tuesday, joining a nationwide protest against ICE on the anniversary of Donald Trump’s second inauguration. The “Free America” walkout, organized by Students for Socialism at KSU, called for justice for those detained, deported, or killed by ICE—like Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis earlier this month. Students gathered on the campus green, holding signs and chanting, “Justice for Renee” and “The people united will never be defeated.” Some marched around the student center, megaphones in hand, their voices echoing across campus. Grace Blomberg, one of the organizers, said the walkout was about solidarity. “We have a responsibility to stand with our immigrant brothers and sisters and with students in Minneapolis who’ve been striking for days,” she said. Not everyone agreed. Andre Stafford, chair of the Cobb Young Republicans, called the protests “misinformed” and said, “At the end of the day, it’s about law and order.” STORY 2: National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend  Winter’s about to make its presence known in Georgia, and the National Weather Service is urging everyone to stay alert. A major winter storm is brewing, set to hit the eastern U.S. this weekend, but where it’ll hit hardest? Still up in the air. Meteorologist Sam Marlow explained the storm’s setup: Arctic air surging south meets warm, moisture-packed air from the Gulf and Pacific. Somewhere along a line from the Carolinas to Texas, they’ll collide—bringing snow, freezing rain, and chaos. For Cobb County, expect a messy mix. Rain and snow showers could start early Saturday, with temps hovering around 40. By nightfall, it’s all but guaranteed—precipitation, freezing rain, and lows dipping to 26. Sunday? More of the same, with highs near 36 and lows plummeting to 19. And once the storm’s gone? Bitter cold sticks around. The advice? Be ready. Stock up on groceries, cover outdoor pipes, and pack an emergency kit for your car. If roads get bad, stay put—it helps crews clear them faster. For those without a warm place to stay, MUST Ministries is opening its winter warming shelter Saturday through Feb. 3. Located at 1297 Bells Ferry Road in Marietta, the shelter offers hot meals, beds, and breakfast. Guests should arrive by 8 p.m., and transportation is available through county transit vouchers. Stay safe, Georgia. STORY 3: Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board  Kimberly McCoy, a veteran in victim advocacy from Cobb County, has been appointed to the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Gov. Brian Kemp. She steps into the role left by Meg Heap, who departed in August to become U.S. attorney for Georgia’s Southern District. McCoy’s resume is stacked. She co-founded the Cobb Family Justice Center, served 25 years as director of the Cobb DA’s Victim Witness Unit, and holds degrees in criminal justice and public administration. But her new role hasn’t been without controversy. Attorneys for death row inmate Stacey Humphreys, convicted of killing two Cobb real estate agents, argued McCoy’s past work with victims’ families creates a conflict of interest in his clemency case. Though McCoy planned to abstain from voting, a judge ruled her involvement could still unfairly sway the outcome. Humphreys’ execution, originally set for Dec. 17, has been delayed until a full, impartial clemency hearing can take place. McCoy’s appointment marks a new chapter in her career, but it’s already proving to be a challenging one. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 8 STORY 4: Severe blood shortage: Give blood to Red Cross now  The American Red Cross is in desperate need of blood donors—like, now. Winter always strains the blood supply, but this year? It’s critical. Patients can’t afford delays in lifesaving care, so if you’re eligible, roll up your sleeve and help. As a thank-you, donors through Jan. 25 are entered to win a trip to Super Bowl LX in California. From Jan. 26 to Feb. 28, you’ll snag a $20 e-gift card. Local drives are happening all over Cobb County—Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and more. Check RedCrossBlood.org for dates and locations. And remember: your donation could literally save a life. STORY 5: F BRAVES: Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are headed to Cooperstown, two center fielders who dominated their eras with a mix of power, speed, and jaw-dropping defense. Born just a day apart in April 1977, they’ll now share the stage at the Hall of Fame induction on July 26. Beltrán, in his fourth year on the ballot, finally crossed the 75% threshold, earning 84.2% of the vote. Jones, in his ninth year, got 78.4%. Both had to climb uphill—Beltrán’s path clouded by the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, Jones’ by a slow start in Hall voting (just 7.3% in 2018). Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over 20 seasons. He was a postseason monster, batting .307 with 16 homers in 65 playoff games. “The Mets are a big part of my identity,” he said, though his career spanned stints with Kansas City, Houston, St. Louis, and others. Jones, meanwhile, was a defensive wizard, winning 10 Gold Gloves and smashing 434 homers. He’s now the sixth Braves legend from their 1990s dynasty to make the Hall, joining Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, and McGriff. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PLUS: Meet coastal Georgia's Patti Hewitt and Cobb-based candidates Danielle Bell (GA-44) and Michael Garza (Cobb School Board)+Georgia's election system is back under the microscope as Ron asks why the renewed push for hand-marked paper ballots doesn't include anyone on the left, plus examines (ho hum) the latest drama from the Georgia's State Election Board. The Trumpists on that board insist on making a nothing-burger out of Fulton County's unsigned tabulation tapes, but will they be the ones to force a final (?) recount of the 2020 presidential election? +Later, Ron is joined by Patti Hewitt, executive director of the Coastal Georgia People's PAC, who explains her grassroots strategy to rebuild Democratic infrastructure in rural Georgia—from protecting the Okefenokee to tackling rising energy costs and health care access.+I can't decide, sometimes, if I can agreeably disagree with Erick Erickson or not, because - at his core - he's a right wing disinformation conduit. Make no mistake - he's no fan of Donald Trump (though he's glad Trump won) - but for someone who proclaims to be driven by his faith, he A) calls a progressive podcaster (Jennifer Welch) "horse face" and B)sort of loses sight of the apt analogy presented when protestors confronted a purported (DHS doesn't reveal agents' identities) ICE agent who ministers in the Minneapolis area. It also begs the question: why does Erick think a church isn't the place to make people a little uncomfortable when that's exactly what a minister's supposed to do with his congregation? Also, why didn't think ordained minister use the opportunity bring people together? Lastly, how can I loathe Erick when he occasionally "broke clocks" his way into being (somewhat) right about young male isolationism? Again, though, when your base sneers at people who put "COEXIST" decals on their cars and is the party of "white flight," home schooling and/or private schooling, aren't you contributing to this sociological epidemic?+Ron spotlights collaboration on the ground with Danielle Bell, a candidate for State House District 44, and Micheal Garza, running for Cobb County School Board, as they team up to connect policy, schools, and families and even campaign events.Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#TheRonShow #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaPolitics #PattyHewitt #DanielleBell #MichaelGarza #PaperBallots #GAPolitics #ElectionIntegrity #GeorgiaElections

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 21st Publish Date:  January 21st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 21st and Happy Birthday to Jack Nicklaus I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 7 STORY 1: Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Seventh-grader Ella Grace Beard from Marietta Middle School clinched the top spot at the Marietta City Schools spelling bee on Friday, sealing her victory with the word “allergenic.” The competition was intense—10 students, each a champion from their school, battled it out for 26 rounds. Now, Ella Grace is headed to the Georgia District 2 spelling bee in Cherokee County. Her dad, Jason Beard, couldn’t be prouder. “She’s been studying like crazy—she even got a dictionary for Christmas last year,” he shared. Superintendent Grant Rivera, who handed out trophies to Ella Grace and runner-up Sreenika Arcot, called the spelling bee one of the most stressful events of the year. Jeff Hubbard, president of the Cobb County Association of Educators, praised the event as a celebration of intelligence. Words like “archetype” and “tenement” challenged the spellers, but Ella Grace rose to the occasion. Now, she’s ready for the next round. STORY 2: Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens had a simple message at the Cobb Chamber luncheon: when Atlanta thrives, the whole region wins. Borrowing JFK’s famous line, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” Dickens made it clear that Atlanta’s success ripples far beyond city limits. Take the FIFA World Cup, for example. Starting in June, Atlanta will host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but the impact? It’ll stretch across the metro—Cobb County, Truist Park, Six Flags, Marietta Square. Through “Showcase Atlanta,” a leadership initiative chaired by Dickens, Arthur Blank, and UPS CEO Carol Tomé, the city plans to maximize the World Cup’s economic impact while spotlighting Atlanta’s culture and hospitality. And it’s not just about FIFA—Atlanta’s hosting the Super Bowl in 2028 and the NCAA Final Four in 2031. But Dickens didn’t shy away from challenges. With the metro population expected to grow by 1.8 million by 2050, he stressed the need for affordable housing and better transportation. “Teachers, first responders—they’re being priced out of the communities they serve. That’s a loss for all of us,” he said. And traffic? Atlanta’s infamous for it. Dickens wants to change that, starting with MARTA expansion into Cobb and Gwinnett. “We can’t keep doing this one-person-per-car thing forever,” he said. Dickens closed with a reminder: safety, health, opportunity—these aren’t partisan issues. “We all want thriving communities,” he said. “That’s something we can all agree on.” STORY 3: Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty   Jordan Dean, 30, of Marietta, is facing an animal cruelty charge after what authorities describe as a heartbreaking case involving his Great Dane, Snoop. On Oct. 23, 2025, Dean reportedly brought Snoop to Cobb County Animal Services, claiming he’d found the dog as a stray near a Walgreens on Canton Road. But Snoop’s condition told a different story. Severely emaciated, his ribs and bones jutted out—no fat, barely any muscle. A cruelty exam scored Snoop at 1/9 on the body condition scale. He weighed just 50 pounds. After care, he reached 107 pounds with no medical issues causing the weight loss. Dean was arrested Jan. 5 and released the next day on a $10,000 bond. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 7 STORY 4: Where the sidewalk ends: Mableton mayor talks SPLOST goals Mableton Mayor Michael Owens has his sights set on two big priorities: public safety and economic growth. And with the upcoming vote on a 1% special sales tax (SPLOST), he sees a chance to make it happen. If approved, the 2028 SPLOST would bring $97.6 million to Mableton—its first time creating its own project list since becoming a city in 2022. For Owens, it’s a defining moment. Top of the list? Sidewalks. “It’s the one thing everyone’s asking for,” Owens said, pointing to gaps along Veterans Memorial Highway and Nickajack Road. Parks, neighborhoods, and even businesses are disconnected, making walking unsafe—or impossible. But sidewalks are just the start. Owens envisions SPLOST funds going toward civic spaces, recreation centers, and even office parks to attract businesses. “You drive down Veterans Memorial, and it’s all shopping centers—no office buildings, no tech parks. That has to change,” he said. For Owens, the November vote is more than a tax—it’s a chance for Mableton residents to shape their city’s future. STORY 5: Marietta Police paint vibrant interrogation room for child witnesses, victims   The Marietta Police Department has turned one of its interview rooms into something truly special—a space designed with kids in mind. Gone are the cold, blank walls. In their place? A vibrant, hand-painted mural that feels more like a storybook than a police station. It’s colorful, calming, and, most importantly, comforting—created to help children, especially those who’ve experienced trauma, feel a little less scared during tough conversations. Marietta High School art teachers Amanda Rudolph and Katherine Robinson, along with students from the National Art Honor Society, poured their hearts into this project. The department’s goal? To make sure every child feels protected and heard. Break: STORY 6: Mableton earns recognition as environmentally friendly city    Mableton just snagged some serious recognition for going green. Mayor Michael Owens and city council members accepted the Silver-level Green Communities certification from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). It’s a big deal—proof that the city’s making real moves to cut its environmental impact. How’d they do it? Think tree preservation ordinances, a community composting program, expanded recycling, and even switching to a 100% electric vehicle fleet. Practical stuff with long-term impact. The certification also boosts Mableton’s chances for state and federal grants, meaning more investment without raising taxes. The Green Communities program evaluates cities on their environmental performance, and Mableton’s efforts earned them a spot among metro Atlanta’s leaders. But the work doesn’t stop here—the certification lasts four years, and the city will need to keep proving its commitment to stay certified. STORY 7: Senate bill would hold down property tax increases that fund Georgia schools  Georgia lawmakers are back at it, debating how to handle property taxes—and this time, they’re eyeing a cap tied to inflation. A new bill from Senate Republicans would force all school systems to limit property tax hikes, even as rising home values push assessments higher. Here’s the twist: last year, 71% of Georgia’s school systems voted to reject a similar cap. Why? Because it slashes funding for education. If this bill passes, schools would lose the ability to tax property values that outpace inflation, leaving them scrambling to cover costs. Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, the bill’s sponsor, argues it’s about fairness. The bill would also impact city and county governments that opted out of last year’s cap. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones called it a priority, saying it’s about “putting more money back in Georgians’ pockets.” Meanwhile, other tax proposals are swirling at the Capitol—like eliminating income taxes or ending homestead property taxes altogether. Gov. Brian Kemp? He’s pushing for tax rebates and a slight income tax cut. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 7 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode, I sit down with my cousin Caleb Cobb to talk about life as a farmer, a father of three, and an outdoorsman. We touch on hunting, fishing, land stewardship, family values and what it means to raise kids who respect hard work and the outdoors. This conversation is about representation, responsibility, and real life beyond the spotlight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textComedian Lane Moore is back at SF Sketchfest with not one, not two, but THREE shows! In a time where laughter is more important than ever, we highly suggest catching Lane on stage while she's in town, your fellow bitches will be at the Tinder Live event at 7pm this Saturday, January 17th at Cobb's Comedy Club!In the meantime, Lane returns to our show to share how she met 90s icon Janeane Garofalo (did we mention that's her special guest for Tinder Live?!?), how the show (and the dating scene) has or hasn't evolved through the years, and why she's so proud to be doing comedy in this moment in time. Get tickets for Tinder Live with Lane Moore HERE!For the entire SF Sketchfest lineup and tickets, click HERE!Follow comedian Lane Moore on IGSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without you! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. Fuck ice. -- Support Bitch Talk here! Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Substack Listen every Monday at 7 am on BFF.FM

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 16th Publish Date:  January 16th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 6 STORY 1: 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival  Mark your calendars—April 18 and 19 is the 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival, brought to you by Superior Plumbing. It’s all happening in downtown Kennesaw, with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. What’s in store? Over 250 arts and crafts booths, fair food galore, a beer garden, kids’ activities, and live acoustic music in the food court all weekend. Don’t miss the Georgia Grown Member Village, showcasing local goods from across the state. Scott Thompson of Brother Mojo will play at the 1885 Grill food court, while the United Bankshares Amphitheater and Main Street’s entertainment stage will feature local dance groups, school choirs, and more. Admission’s free, and parking’s available at Adams Park, Kennesaw First Baptist, and Swift-Cantrell Park, with shuttles running from Swift-Cantrell. Questions? Call 770-423-1330 or email missy@jrmmanagement.com. STORY 2: Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square  So, Ted’s Montana Grill is out. The long-vacant lot at 77 North Park Square stays empty, and the bison burgers? Not happening—at least for now. CEO George McKerrow, a Cobb local, said the decision came after a wave of public backlash. “In 50 years in this business, I’ve never seen this kind of vitriol,” he said. But here’s the twist: the tide on social media had actually shifted. By the time Ted’s pulled out, most comments were supportive. Even Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin invited McKerrow to walk the Square and reconsider. The lot’s been an eyesore since 2010, and Councilman Johnny Walker, who’s been pushing for something—anything—to fill the space, is frustrated. “If Ted’s doesn’t come back, it could be years before anyone else steps up,” he said. The $5 million project was ready to go: a 4,311-square-foot building designed to match the Square’s historic charm. But now? It’s back to square one. STORY 3: Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings  Cobb County’s 2028 SPLOST plan is officially in motion. On Tuesday, commissioners gave a unanimous thumbs-up to a preliminary list of projects, kicking off months of public input. What’s on the table? Everything from new fire stations and libraries to pedestrian safety upgrades and a $30 million aquatic center. The total? A hefty $790 million. Chair Lisa Cupid called it a balancing act: “Every dollar has a constituency. We need projects that move the county forward but also maintain the basics—roads, public safety, services.” Nine community meetings are set through March, giving residents a chance to weigh in before the final vote in April. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 6 STORY 4: Addison Elementary School principal charged with DUI  Addison Elementary Principal Jill Spiva was arrested Thursday for DUI after a crash near the school, according to Cobb County Police. The wreck happened around 4:45 p.m. at Ebenezer and Sandy Plains roads, just minutes from Addison. Officers said Spiva appeared intoxicated and was at fault for the crash. A half-empty bottle of Smirnoff vodka was reportedly found in her car, per WSB-TV. Spiva refused sobriety and blood tests, prompting a judge to issue a warrant for a blood draw. She’s facing charges of DUI, open container, and failure to maintain lane. The district acknowledged the incident but declined to comment on her status. STORY 5: Mount Paran Christian enter apparel agreement with Nike and BSN Sports Mount Paran Christian School just announced a big win for its athletics program—a multi-year partnership with Nike and BSN SPORTS. Translation? Top-tier gear and branded apparel for student-athletes, coaches, and the entire MPC sports community. Nike will now be the official provider of athletic apparel and equipment, while BSN SPORTS steps in as the school’s brand distributor. “This partnership is huge,” said Athletic Director Mike Walker. “It’s about giving our athletes the best—gear that matches their heart and hustle.” The deal also lowers costs for families, sharpens team branding, and fuels MPC’s mission to compete at a championship level. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 14th Publish Date:  January 14th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 14th and Happy Birthday to Dave Grohl I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting The intersection of Johnson Ferry and Roswell roads buzzed with energy Sunday afternoon as over 150 protesters gathered for the “ICE Out for Good” rally, part of a nationwide movement calling for the abolition of ICE. Chants of “No ICE, no fear, immigrants are welcome here” echoed across the streets, accompanied by honking horns and waves from passing cars. Protesters held handmade signs with messages like “Melt ICE,” “Justice for Renee,” and “Keep Orwell fiction.” The rally followed the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good, a Minneapolis woman, by an ICE agent during an immigration operation. Protesters, led by Indivisible Cobb, called out what they described as ICE’s unchecked violence. “This is about justice,” said Susan Lopez of Smyrna. “ICE is overstepping, and it’s time to hold them accountable.” Not everyone agreed. Terry Frost, a lone counter-protester, stood silently with a Trump campaign flag, voicing his support for ICE. “I can’t stand with people defending criminals,” he said. The protest remained peaceful, with no arrests reported. STORY 2: Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project  Heads up, drivers: weather permitting, GDOT contractors will be closing lanes around the I-285/I-20 West Interchange for a major reconstruction project. Expect delays, lane shifts, and some frustration—so plan ahead. The project? Widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 12-16. Single-lane closures start at 9 p.m., double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same deal. I-20 Westbound: Anderson to Riverside, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside to I-285, alternating lane closures. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit nearby roads. Check 511ga.org for updates, and drive safe! STORY 3: ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition   For Dominique Verville, crowned Miss Cobb County 2026 last August, life’s best moments often sit just past fear. “Fear shows up when something matters,” the 23-year-old from Kennesaw told the Kiwanis Club of Marietta on Thursday. “It doesn’t mean you’re unprepared—it means you’re standing at the edge of growth.” A graduate of Auburn University with degrees in aviation management and finance, Verville is a classically trained dancer, a licensed pilot, and now an aviation insurance underwriter. But her heart? It’s in service. Through her nonprofit, Hearts for Heroes, she supports veterans transitioning to civilian life, delivering supplies and reading her children’s book, Dear Soldier, to students. “The crown isn’t about me,” she said. “It’s about serving others.” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 5 STORY 4: Mableton swears in new councilmembers, elects mayor pro tem The Mableton City Council kicked off the year with a packed agenda—and a little drama. New council members Cassandra Brown and Michael McNeely were sworn in, while Debora Herndon, reelected unopposed, will take her oath later this month. Then came the vote for mayor pro tem. After a 3-3 tie between Ron Davis and Keisha Jeffcoat, McNeely flipped his vote in a second round, giving Davis the role with a 4-2 majority. “Big shoes to fill,” Davis said, “but I’m ready to make this city the best it can be.” The council also approved Mableton’s participation in HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program, partnering with Cobb County to fund affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, and economic development. STORY 5: Wood you believe it? New art exhibits open in Marietta   Two fresh exhibitions are taking over the Marietta-Cobb Museum of Art and they couldn’t be more different. Downstairs, “Georgia Wood Artists” showcases 50 stunning woodworks from 39 Georgia artists—everything from bowls to mandolins to abstract sculptures. Upstairs? Lawrenceville painter Maya Perez-Lugones makes her solo debut with a series of bold, surreal bathroom scenes. “It’s like night and day,” said museum director Sally Macaulay. “Every piece evokes something different. I love hearing what people feel.” Perez-Lugones’ work, inspired by light bouncing off bathroom surfaces, explores ego and compulsion. Meanwhile, the wood exhibit highlights craftsmanship, from whittling to woodturning. Tickets are $10; kids under 6 get in free. Break: STORY 6: Braves re-sign reliever Tyler Kinley    The Braves are keeping their bullpen busy this offseason, signing right-hander Tyler Kinley to a $3 million deal for 2026, with a $5.5 million club option for 2027 (or a $1.25 million buyout). Kinley, 34, was lights-out last season—5-0 with a ridiculous 0.72 ERA in just 25 innings after being traded from Colorado in July. Not bad, right? This move follows Atlanta’s other bullpen splashes: a $45 million deal for Robert Suarez and a $16 million re-signing of closer Raisel Iglesias. STORY 7: Health inspection follow-up brings big change for Hoboken Cafe  The Hoboken Café on Whitlock Avenue, a local favorite for Italian eats, bounced back this week after a rough health inspection in December. The follow-up? A shiny 97 out of 100—an “A” for food safety excellence. Back in December, though, things weren’t so great. The café scored a 69, just one point above a failing grade. Violations included raw meat stored above ready-to-eat foods, cooling and reheating issues, and sanitizer buckets with way too much solution. The last inspection found just one issue—improper cooling for stuffed peppers, which was fixed on the spot. Management says everything’s been addressed. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On an all-new Speed Date, host Joel Kim Booster sits down with the fabulous Janet Varney (Avatar: Braving The Elements, Stan Against Evil, You're The Worst) to talk about the 23rd year of the comedy festival she co-founded, SF Sketchfest, where you can see Bad Dates live at Cobb's Comedy Club on Sunday, February 1st!! They'll get into the origin of the festival, Janet's favorite events they've ever hosted, everything you won't want to miss in this year's lineup, and the magic of San Francisco and its dialed-in comedy crowds. Check out the SF Sketchfest lineup HERE for tickets! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for full episodes. Merch available at SiriusXMStore.com/BadDates. Joel Kim Booster: Psychosexual, Fire Island, Loot Season 3Janet Varney: @thejvclub on Insta, Avatar: Braving The Elements Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Bad Dates ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get my new book: https://bronsonequity.com/fireyourselfDownload my new special report - How to Use Inflation to Your Advantage - www.bronsonequity.com/inflationIn this episode of the Mailbox Money Show, Bronson uncovers the high-reward world of land development with Brandon Cobb. They break down the two-phase process: land entitlement (securing approvals for forced appreciation) and horizontal development (infrastructure like roads and utilities for ready-to-build lots). Brandon reveals how to mitigate risks via pre-sold contracts with national builders (e.g., Lennar, D.R. Horton), structure deals with 18% preferred returns and 65% LTC debt, and capitalize on current market freezes. From Tennessee's cyclical opportunities to biohacking for peak performance (cold plunges, green smoothies, sleep optimization), discover why development offers multiple exits and legacy-building potential—perfect for diversifying beyond multifamily amid rising rates.Brandon Cobb is the CEO of HBG Capital, a real estate development and investment firm specializing in single-family residential projects. With a background in homebuilding, he now focuses on land entitlement and horizontal development, creating shovel-ready lots for major builders.00:42 - Guest Intro: Brandon Cobb01:41 - Real Estate Cycles: Sector Shifts for Optimal Returns02:29 - Phase 1: Land Entitlement for Forced Appreciation03:11 - Phase 2: Horizontal Development (Roads & Utilities)03:36 - Niche: Single-Family Lots for Builders Like Lennar04:54 - Current Focus: Pre-Sold Entitlements in Slow Markets05:38 - Structure: 18% Pref Return, 100% Equity Plays07:16 - Risk Mitigation: Builder Deposits & Double Closes09:04 - Financing: 65% LTC Debt, Builder Funds as Equity10:45 - Land Banking: Hold for Surrounding Development Gains14:26 - Timelines: 15 Months Entitlement, 1-Year Development15:36 - Market Evolution: Post-2022 Freeze to Builder Opportunities19:57 - Advantages: 3 Exits, Low Saturation in Development21:10 - Biohacking: Wealth for Full Life Enjoyment21:33 - Green Smoothies: Organic Daily Digestion Boost22:48 - Cold Plunge: Fog Buster & Recovery Enhancer24:37 - Sleep Optimization: Whoop Tracking for Foundation27:12 - Blood Tests + ChatGPT: Personalized Performance Tweaks29:36 - ResourcesCONNECT WITH THE GUESTLand Development 101: learnlanddevelopment.comJoin the Waitlist: hbgcapital.net/waitlistWebsite and E-book: hbgcapital.net#LandDevelopment#RealEstateEntitlement#HorizontalConstruction#Biohacking#ForcedAppreciation#InvestorRiskMitigation#SleepOptimization

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 9th Publish Date:  January 9th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 9th and Happy Birthday to Jimmy Page I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 4 STORY 1: Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene  Georgia’s 14th Congressional District is gearing up for a special election on March 10, following Marjorie Taylor Greene’s abrupt resignation. Greene, once a staunch Trump ally, stepped down after a public fallout with the president over her push to release Jeffrey Epstein-related documents. Trump called her a “traitor” and vowed to back her challenger if she ran again. Ouch. The race? Already crowded. Nearly two dozen candidates are eyeing the seat, including two Democrats, an independent, and 20 Republicans. Big names like State Sen. Colton Moore and Dalton Councilman Nicky Lama are in the mix. Qualifying runs Jan. 12–14, with a $5,220 fee. STORY 2: Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Marietta Theatre Company just dropped its 2026 season lineup, and honestly? It’s a good one. Tickets are already on sale—season passes start at $65, and they’re flexible, so no stressing over dates. “Live theater sticks with you—it’s magic that lingers,” said Katrina Stroup, the company’s president. “This season? Laughter, music, joy. We’ve got it all.” Here’s what’s coming: Little Shop of Horrors (Jan. 22-31): A cult classic with humor, heart, and a man-eating plant. 9 to 5: The Musical (May 28-June 6): Dolly Parton. Friendship. Revenge. Enough said. All Shook Up (Aug. 13-22): Elvis meets Twelfth Night. Chaos ensues. Details at mariettatheatre.tix.com. STORY 3: Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for  Flu season’s here, and Georgia’s getting hit hard—again. Over 300 people have been hospitalized since Dec. 21, and it’s not just the flu. RSV and colds are making the rounds too. Feeling run down? Fever, chills, body aches, sore throat? Yeah, it might be the flu. Dr. Earl Stewart Jr. from Wellstar says Influenza A (H3N2) is the big culprit this year, hitting kids, seniors, and folks with chronic conditions the hardest. Symptoms usually last 5–7 days, but that cough? It might stick around for weeks. When to worry? If you’re struggling to breathe, have chest pain, or your kid’s lethargic and not drinking fluids—get to the ER. Prevention? The usual suspects: flu shots, handwashing, rest, and staying hydrated. And if you do catch it, antivirals like Tamiflu can help—especially if you act fast. Stay safe, everyone. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 4 STORY 4: Cobb Prom Swap  Got an old prom dress or suit gathering dust in your closet? Give it a second life at the Cobb Prom Swap! The Cobb County Public Library is collecting gently used dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and even new, unused cosmetics through Feb. 7. Drop-off locations include: East Cobb Library, Marietta North Cobb Library, Kennesaw Powder Springs Library, Powder Springs Vinings Library, Atlanta West Cobb Library, Kennesaw Then, teens can shop for free at the Prom Swap events—first-come, first-served—on Feb. 21 (South Cobb Library, Mableton) and Feb. 28 (Switzer Library, Marietta). Perfect outfits, no price tags. STORY 5: Wheeler overcomes rocky start to beat Cherokee Cherokee came out swinging, but Wheeler landed the knockout punch, pulling away for a 78-64 win Tuesday night at Cherokee High. The Wildcats (12-3, 4-0 Region 5AAAAAA) have been living out of suitcases for weeks, and while this wasn’t their cleanest game, they handed the Warriors (11-5, 3-1) their first region loss—without starters Kevin Savage and Lamarrion Lewis. UConn commit Colben Landrew was unstoppable, dropping 26 points. Jaron Saulsberry added 17, and Amare James chipped in 16, including a half-court buzzer-beater that sparked Wheeler’s comeback. Cherokee started hot—Sean Hamilton’s seven-point run helped build a 20-6 lead. But Wheeler clawed back, outscoring the Warriors 26-12 in the second quarter and never looking back. FALCONS: Kirk Cousins and the Falcons just shook up his contract—again. According to reports, they’ve reworked the final two years of his four-year, $180 million deal, giving Atlanta some breathing room with the salary cap. But here’s the kicker: by March 13, 2026, they’ll have to decide if Cousins sticks around. Why? A $67.9 million guarantee for 2027 kicks in that day. And let’s be real—at 38, with a no-trade clause, Cousins isn’t exactly a hot commodity. The new deal slashes his 2026 base salary from $35 million to $2.1 million, shifting that cash to 2027. Still, he’s got a $10 million roster bonus locked in for next year. Atlanta signed Cousins in 2024 with $100 million guaranteed, then drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8. But when Penix tore his ACL, Cousins stepped in, starting seven games. His numbers? Solid-ish: 1,721 yards, 10 TDs, five picks. Not bad for a guy nearing 40. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 4 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandon Cobb is a former medical device sales pro turned land developer who scaled from flipping 30–40 houses a year into building and developing entire communities, primarily around Nashville, Tennessee. In this episode, Brandon pulls back the curtain on what really makes land development work (and what can destroy you), including the entitlement process, dealing with cities, structuring deals with national builders, and how he obsessively builds downside protection into every project. What you'll learn about in this episode How Brandon went from getting fired from his "dream job" to becoming a full-time real estate entrepreneur The million-dollar mistake Brandon made in land development and the "golden rule" that would've prevented it Why you should never buy land before approvals are in place (and the one exception where it can make sense) A real example of a $1.4M win: getting approvals first, installing infrastructure, and selling developed lots to a national builder Why timelines vary wildly by county and why you should plan for delays (Murphy always shows up) The role of attorneys, engineers, and a reliable development team and how referrals create "continuity" that speeds approvals How to determine the best use of land before you start analyzing a deal The due diligence checklist difference between houses vs. raw land (and why exit strategies matter more on land) Current ballpark development costs per lot (excluding land cost), and what makes costs jump fast (rock, topography, dirt, trees) What "entry-level housing" looks like in today's market and why demand is so strong (affordable monthly payment target) Why Brandon prefers selling to national home builders (capital strength, volume pricing, speed, and predictability) How builder deposits can fund development and reduce interest costs—plus how Brandon targets downside protection in his numbers The concept of "force appreciation" in three phases: entitlement, horizontal development, and building/renting as a backstop Why Ron says: avoid personally guaranteeing debt and stay out of banks whenever possible Resources RonLeGrand.com — Additional training, tools, and information. Get Ron's $599 Wholesaling course for FREE when you join his Gold Club for ONLY $99 a month! –www.TheMentorPodcast.com/GC183 https://LearnLandDevelopment.com https://hbgcapital.net/waitlist https://RonLeGrand.com/Plan to complete your planning session application online https://RonLeGrand.com/Brandon

Welcome, beloved saints of the Most High! I'm Rod Thomas, and I'm honored to bring you another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. On this unusually warm Preparation Day here in DFW, I invite you to join me as we tackle a provocative question: Have we truly finished the Great Commission—and could this be the very thing that triggers the End Times? In this episode, I share my personal reflections and biblical analysis after reading a recent BlazeTV article featuring global missions leader Douglas Cobb. Cobb claims that within the next decade, every people group on earth will have access to the Gospel, and that this milestone could unleash the End Times and prompt the return of Messiah. But is this really what Scripture teaches? Here's what you can expect as I walk you through this timely discussion: My take on Cobb's claims: I break down the metrics and milestones cited by mission organizations, including Bible translation efforts and church planting, and ask whether these truly fulfill Yeshua's mandate. A deep dive into the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24): We'll explore the sequence of events Yeshua said must occur before the End comes, and what it means for the Gospel to be preached to all nations. The true meaning of the Great Commission: I challenge the idea that simply distributing Bibles or building churches is enough. Instead, I emphasize the importance of teaching, modeling, and living out the Gospel of the Kingdom—Yeshua-focused Torah Living. Why I believe the Great Commission is far from complete: Drawing from Scripture and history, I argue that the true Gospel has not been proclaimed to any appreciable degree since the early centuries AD, and that the Church Triumphant has missed the mark. Comparing Christian traditions: I discuss how Catholics, Orthodox, Protestants, Evangelicals, and Charismatics each interpret the Great Commission differently—and why many approaches fall short of true discipleship. Who decides when the mission is complete? Only Abba Yah knows the times and seasons. I reflect on what it means for us to walk in covenant, obey Torah, and embody Kingdom principles as we await Messiah's return. A call to action: I invite you to consider your own relationship with Yehovah and encourage you to seek true discipleship, covenant living, and a deeper understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom. Throughout this episode, I share my heart, my convictions, and my hope that we, as a remnant of elect and chosen ones, will rise to fulfill the true Great Commission in these last days. If you have questions, need prayer, or want to connect, please reach out to me at perceptionwp@gmail.com or leave a voice message at themessianictorahobserver.org. Referenced links: https://www.theblaze.com/shows/steve-deace-show/are-we-about-to-complete-the-great-commission-and-unleash-the-end-times?utm_source=theblaze-dailyAM&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily-Newsletter__AM%202026-01-01&utm_term=ACTIVE%20LIST%20-%20TheBlaze%20Daily%20AM&tpcc=email&sailthru_id=56505f1b487ccda2018c2d48&mb=Y https://roodstore.com/products/the-chronological-gospels-bible-second-edition?variant=40088970985547 https://rstne.com/ Thank you for spending time with me today. May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Take care, and let's continue to walk the narrow path together until our King returns!  

Host Katie Burke visits Virginia carver Mark McNair, a lifelong artist shaped by Connecticut folk art, Easton's decoy scene, and decades of hands‑on craft.In this conversation recorded at McNair's marsh‑side home, he traces his path from Guilford, Connecticut to the Eastern Shore of Virginia, sharing mentors, influences, and the community that keeps carving vibrant. You'll hear how form leads paint, why some heads go to the scrap pile, and how a celebrated swan decoy gathered its story over time. McNair also explains his “alchemist workshop” demos, opening the process to families and new carvers.The moment he asked “Who's in charge here?” and took control of the carve.Why form should guide paint—and when paint distracts from the sculpture.How mentors (from Madeleine Shar to peers like Cameron McIntyre and Grayson Chesser) shape better work through real critique.Building decoys with raised wings and two‑part construction; borrowing ideas from Cobb, Shang Wheeler, Blair, and John English to solve design problems. The liberating lesson of throwing a failed piece in the wood stove and moving on.Community moments: Easton Waterfowl Festival, Barrier Island Center's Meet the Carvers, and teaching with his son Ian.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you're winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 7th Publish Date:  January 7th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 7th and Happy Birthday to Kenny Loggins I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 3 STORY 1: Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Heads up, drivers: weather permitting, GDOT contractors will be closing lanes around the I-285/I-20 West Interchange for a major reconstruction project. Expect delays, detours, and, let’s be honest, some frustration. The project? It’s a big one—widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 5–9, with single-lane closures starting at 9 p.m. and double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Donald Lee Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same dates and times, with alternating lane closures. I-20 Westbound: Anderson Ave. to Riverside Parkway, nightly closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside Parkway to I-285, alternating lane closures nightly. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit local roads like Collier Drive and Delmar Lane. Check 511ga.org or the Georgia 511 app for real-time updates. And please—slow down, stay alert, and watch for workers. STORY 2: Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time  Saturday morning at the Lewis A. Ray Library was pure chaos—the good kind. Ten little ones, from wobbly toddlers to wide-eyed infants, gathered on a colorful mat in the children’s section, ready for story time. Their parents? Mostly trying to keep up. Jess Fulcher, the library’s assistant senior librarian of youth services, led the charge. There were songs (“Wheels on the Bus,” of course), dancing, and two books about big feelings: Mad, Mad Bear and Leo Wakes Up Grumpy. The kids shook maracas, froze mid-dance, and popped bubbles from a machine that sent hundreds floating through the air. “It’s amazing,” Fulcher said, smiling. “I’ve been seeing some of these kids for over a year now. Watching them grow, connect, and learn—it’s the best part of my job.” The library, located at 4500 Oakdale Road, hosts family story time every other Saturday. For details, visit cobbcounty.gov/location/lewis-ray-library. STORY 3: Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation  The 2025-26 school year has been a big one for Kennesaw’s Chesterton Academy of Atlanta. Just three years in, this small Catholic high school is growing steadily—and racking up some impressive wins along the way. Founded in 2023, the school is part of the global Chesterton Schools Network, which aims to provide affordable, classical Catholic education. Tuition? $9,185 per year. This year, the network snagged the prestigious $1 million Yass Prize for education innovation, while the Kennesaw campus received a $3,000 grant from the Catholic Foundation of North Georgia to upgrade its art room and cafeteria. From just 10 students in its first year to over 30 now, Chesterton Academy is carving out a special place in Georgia’s Catholic education landscape. For more, visit chestertonatl.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Cobb lawmakers react to U.S. strike on Venezuela Cobb County lawmakers are weighing in on the U.S. military’s strike in Venezuela, which ended with the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, ordered by President Trump, has sparked a firestorm of reactions—both praise and sharp criticism. U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Cassville, called the move “decisive and courageous,” hailing it as the end of a “tyrannical regime” and a chance for a brighter future for Venezuela. But not everyone’s cheering. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Rome, slammed the strike, questioning its consistency with Trump’s stance on Ukraine and accusing the administration of prioritizing foreign conflicts over domestic issues. “Why is it okay when we do it?” she asked on X. Rep. Lucy McBath, D-Marietta, echoed concerns, demanding clarity on the strike’s legality and its potential to destabilize Venezuela further. Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Georgia, went even further, calling it a “broken promise” from a president more focused on foreign oil than Americans’ struggles. Locally, the Cobb Democratic Party condemned the strike as “unlawful,” while Cobb GOP President Mary Clarice Hathaway defended Trump’s decision, saying, “Sometimes hard decisions are necessary.” STORY 5: Cobb Police arrest suspect in New Year’s Day homicide   A New Year’s Day stabbing at the Millwood Apartment Complex in Marietta left one man dead and another behind bars. Cobb County Police say they responded to a call around 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 at 300 Pat Mell Road, near Austell Road. When officers arrived, they found 47-year-old Jerry Sampson Jr. with a stab wound. He was rushed to the hospital but didn’t make it. The suspect, 50-year-old Zuberi A. Douglas, was arrested the next day at the same apartment complex where the incident happened. He’s now facing charges, including felony murder. The investigation is ongoing. Got info? Call 770-499-3945. Break: STORY 6: Mac’s Chophouse scores 64 on health inspection, owners say violations are being corrected     Mac’s Chophouse, a Marietta Square favorite, hit a rough patch, scoring a 64 on its health inspection—an unsatisfactory “U” grade. Ouch. Co-owners Randy McCray and Chef Mike Fuller didn’t shy away from the news. “This score doesn’t reflect who we are,” they said, calling most violations “administrative” rather than food safety issues. The inspection cited nine problems, from improper handwashing to black buildup in ice machines. A half-eaten burger on a prep table? Not a great look. McCray admitted, “We fell behind during a busy season.” They’ve since cleaned house—literally—and are prepping for a re-inspection by Jan. 9. STORY 7: Wheeler falls in title game of Hoophall West  Darius Wabbington was unstoppable. He dropped 23 points, grabbed nine boards, and led Sunnyslope to a nail-biting 61-59 win over Wheeler in the Hoophall West Nike Tournament of Champions final on Saturday. Wheeler (11-3), ranked No. 5 by MaxPreps, had a solid run—beating Salesian (CA) and No. 6 Millennium (AZ)—but three games in three days and 1,800 miles of travel caught up with them. Still, they fought. Down 47-45 heading into the fourth, they clawed back to lead 53-51. But Sunnyslope? Ice cold at the line. They hit all 15 free throws, including six clutch ones from Colorado signee Rider Portela, who finished with 14 points. The game was chaos—nine ties, 16 lead changes, and no lead bigger than five. Wheeler’s Amare James (16 points) and Colben Landrew (20 points, six assists) kept it close, but Wabbington’s second-half threes and Sunnyslope’s composure sealed it. Tough loss, but what a game. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 3 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We livestream our 11AM service each Sunday to YouTube and Facebook. You can search West Mobile Baptist Church to find our church.

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LIVE STREAMING tonight at 7:00pm EST... Join us as we dive into the mysteries of Redbird Airport!  Tales of Wayne January, Jerri Cobb, David Ferrie, and others. Scafuzzary around every corner! Silk CIty Hot Sauce - https://www.silkcityhotsauce.com Use our code GUNMAN for 20% off entire order at checkout!The COLDEST Cup - https://snwbl.io/TLG10 Follow our link to save $10 on every cup ordered!Music By - Lee Harold OswaldA Loose Moose ProductionBBB&JOEBBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lone-gunman-podcast-jfk-assassination--1181353/support.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 2nd Publish Date:  January 2nd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 2 STORY 1: No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January  Starting this month, private cars will no longer be allowed up Kennesaw Mountain. The park’s steep, winding Mountain Road—famous for its blind curves and 12% grade—has become a safety headache, with too many close calls between cars, cyclists, and hikers. Instead, visitors can reach the summit by shuttle, bike, or on foot. A new pedestrian lane will make the 1.5-mile trek safer for walkers, while the unpaved hiking trail remains untouched. Acting Superintendent Beth Wheeler said the changes address “growing safety concerns” and aim to protect the park’s natural and historic beauty. Road striping starts Jan. 6, with closures lasting through March. STORY 2: Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Philanthropist and Paychex founder Tom Golisano just made history with a $50 million gift to Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia (WCHOG), the largest donation in Wellstar’s history. In recognition, the hospital will now be called the Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia. This isn’t just a check—it’s a game-changer. The hospital is joining the Golisano Children’s Alliance, a network of 12 children’s hospitals across the U.S., opening doors to collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise. It’s the only hospital in the alliance representing Georgia and its neighboring states. The donation will fund projects like a cutting-edge pediatric cardiac ICU, further cementing Wellstar’s reputation for top-tier pediatric care. Other hospitals in the alliance include institutions in Buffalo, Fort Myers, and Hershey, Pa.—all part of Golisano’s mission to improve children’s health nationwide. STORY 3: Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace   If you’ve ever seen a serene dog strolling alongside Buddhist monks—sometimes dressed better than the humans—you’ve probably met Aloka, the Peace Dog. Aloka isn’t flashy. He doesn’t bark for attention or demand the spotlight. But somehow, he’s become the quiet soul of the Walk for Peace, embodying everything it stands for. He walks when he can, rides when he’s tired, and never strays from the monks’ side. Once a stray in India, Aloka chose this life. Literally. He started following the monks during a peace walk years ago and never stopped. Now, he’s trekking across the U.S., his calm presence lifting spirits and drawing fans online. Despite the growing attention, Aloka stays grounded. He’s shy with fans, content to rest his paws in the grass or wait patiently for the next step. He doesn’t need words or signs to make his point. Aloka just shows up, step after step, proving that quiet compassion can be the loudest message of all. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 2 STORY 4: Duo Arpeggione to perform Jan. 11 at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church  St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Marietta (571 Holt Road) is hosting something special: a performance by the world-renowned Duo Arpeggione as part of its Friends of Music series. Mark your calendar—Sunday, Jan. 11, at 3 p.m., in the church sanctuary. Duo Arpeggione, formed in 2017, brings together pianist Catherine Lan and cellist Claudio Jaffe. Their program, “Romantic Resonance,” promises a journey through the evolution of piano and cello music, from Beethoven’s refined elegance to the fiery, nationalistic flair of Cassadó and Chopin. Admission is free—donations welcome. Seating is first-come, first-served. Questions? Call 770-971-2839 or email stcats@stcatherines.org. STORY 5: Sprayberry comes back to upend Sandy Creek Down 12 in the second half against three-time defending state champs Sandy Creek, Sprayberry’s boys basketball team could’ve folded. But they didn’t. Instead, they clawed their way back for a gritty 50-45 win Monday at the Lemon Street Classic. Sandy Creek (6-2) brought the heat early, showing why they’re one of the toughest defensive teams around. Sprayberry (9-3) struggled to find rhythm, trailing 26-18 at halftime. Nate McDaniel sparked an 11-2 run in the third, hitting a three and sinking free throws to pull Sprayberry within three. McDaniel, who’s been part of the program since he was a kid, finished with 16 points, 10 in the second half. The Yellow Jackets opened the fourth with eight straight points, taking a 39-34 lead. Sandy Creek fought back, briefly reclaiming the lead at 42-41, but McDaniel’s clutch three-point play and a layup from Christian Bass sealed the deal. ANTHONY JOSHUA: The boxing world is reeling after a tragic car crash near Lagos on Monday left Anthony Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champ and Olympic gold medalist, is recovering in stable condition, his promoter confirmed. But the loss of Ghami, his strength coach, and Ayodele, a trainer, has left a deep void. Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele had shared a lighthearted moment on social media, playing table tennis together. Tributes poured in from the boxing community. Tyson Fury called it “heartbreaking,” while Chris Eubank Jr. remembered Ghami and Ayodele as “genuinely good men.” Shannon Courtenay urged fans to keep Joshua in their prayers, adding, “No one should have to witness what he did.” The crash is a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even for giants like Joshua. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 2 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 2nd Publish Date: January 2nd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: INGLES 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless The Cherokee County Development Service Center is now cashless—no more bills or coins at the counter. If you’re handling business licenses, building permits, alcohol licenses, or even motorized cart registrations, you’ll need to pay with a card, check, money order, or online. The office, located on the ground floor of the county’s admin building in Canton, says this change will speed things up and make transactions more secure. So, plan ahead—no cash, no exceptions. Got questions? Call 770-721-7810 or email dsc@cherokeecountyga.gov. And hey, for more details, check out their website. STORY 2: Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie Kurt Lee Wheeler’s had plenty to smile about this holiday season. By day, he’s teaching at Creekland Middle School in Canton—a job he loves. But outside the classroom? He’s been busy releasing a new album and making his movie debut. After hearing his music, producer and actress Roberta Sparta invited Wheeler to perform in The Secret Life of a Good Wife, a Lifetime movie that premiered Thanksgiving Day. In a scene shot in Acworth, Wheeler and his band played during an outdoor gathering. Wheeler’s new album, Lathemtown, features some of the best bluegrass talent around, including Aaron Ramsey and Jake Stargel. A Cherokee County favorite, Wheeler’s also known for writing the county’s official song and performing at countless local events. With retirement from teaching on the horizon this May, Wheeler’s looking forward to traveling, spending time with his new grandchild, and, of course, making more music. STORY 3: MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus  The MLK Day Unity Breakfast is making its long-awaited return to Canton on Jan. 19 after a six-year break. This free event kicks off at 8 a.m. with breakfast at the Cherokee County Conference Center (1130 Bluffs Parkway), followed by a program at 9 a.m. honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of equality, justice, and service. The keynote speaker? Canton native and weather-climate expert Dr. James Marshall Shepherd, a Cherokee High valedictorian who’s advised NASA, Congress, and even the White House. The program will also feature local leaders, a community choir, creative dance, and the CFCC Unity Award Presentation. For more info or to donate, visit cfergusoncc.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 10 STORY 4: Johns Creek holds off Cherokee Cherokee had its shot—literally—but couldn’t quite close the deal, falling 69-63 to Johns Creek in Monday’s Lemon Street Classic at Marietta High. Down two with 33 seconds left, Polk Corben’s steal and layup gave Cherokee life. Then Johns Creek missed two free throws, leaving the door wide open. But Braylon Luster’s potential game-tying shot? Off the mark. Forced to foul, Cherokee watched the Gladiators ice it with four free throws. Tatum Holmes led the Gladiators with 25 points, while Kaysan Brock added 13. For Cherokee, Sean Williams and Braylon Luster each dropped 21, with Luster sparking a furious fourth-quarter rally. Trailing 58-46 after three, Cherokee clawed back with a 10-2 run, cutting the lead to one. But Brock’s clutch three-pointer with 1:33 left sealed the Gladiators’ win. It was a back-and-forth battle early. Cherokee’s hot start from deep gave them a 9-2 lead, but Johns Creek answered with a 12-4 run, fueled by three triples. By halftime, the Gladiators clung to a 30-28 edge. In the end, Cherokee’s fight wasn’t enough. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: New laws will address professional services, homeowner protections, car owners and politicians  While most laws from this year’s legislative session kicked in back in July, a few big ones kicked off on New Year’s Day. They tackle everything from dentist shortages to car tags, with a little campaign finance reform thrown in for good measure. Take House Bill 148, for example. Rep. John Carson, a CPA from Cobb, is trying to fix Georgia’s accountant shortage. His bill updates a 30-year-old licensing system, making it easier to become a CPA and letting out-of-state firms work here without opening an office. Then there’s House Bill 567, aimed at solving the dentist drought. Rep. Katie Dempsey’s bill allows licensed dentists to practice online—yes, teledentistry is now a thing—and ensures dental plans cover it. Homeowners get a win, too. Senate Bill 35 doubles the notice period for nonrenewal of certain insurance policies to 60 days. And Senate Bill 112 makes HVAC warranties transferable to new buyers and bans those annoying “register your product or lose your warranty” rules. Campaign finance? Senate Bill 199 tightens the rules, requiring PACs to keep detailed bank records and file disclosures with the State Ethics Commission. Oh, and candidates can’t be investigated within 60 days of an election. And for the patriotic crowd, there’s Senate Bill 291. It introduces a new license plate with the American flag and “America First” slogan. Proceeds go to the state’s general fund. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Finding Discounted Property Podcast, host Michael Pinter sits down with Brandon Cobb, founder of HPG Capital, to break down how raw land can be transformed into highly profitable development deals.Brandon shares his unexpected journey from being fired from his dream job in medical device sales to discovering real estate, flipping houses, and ultimately building seven-figure land development deals. He explains why land development became his focus, how he works with national builders like Lennar and D.R. Horton, and what investors need to know about zoning, approvals, density, and infrastructure.You'll learn:How Brandon identifies land that builders actually want to buyWhy zoning and density matter more than acreageHow to work with city planners instead of fighting themHow builders can help cover development soft costsWhy you should never buy land before approvals are in placeThe key differences between developing land in growth-friendly markets vs. restrictive states like New York and CaliforniaWhether you're an experienced real estate investor or just curious about land development, this episode offers a clear, honest look at how value is created long before construction ever begins.Brandon also shares free educational resources and explains how investors can learn more about land development through LearnLandDevelopment.com.Brandon Cobb - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hbgcapital/Hope You enjoy it I offer other products thanks for listening

PLEASE SIGN UP ON PATREON, EVEN IF IT'S FOR FREE! Posting everything here has become a burden, and if you're only listening to this feed you probably aren't getting all of the episodes. Sign up now at Patreon. It’s two podcasts (Pod Yourself and the Frotcast) for the price of one! Patreon dot com slash frotcast! This is just a teaser, but you can hear the full episode by signing up on Patreon.  This week, Matt is unhappily parenting, or maybe just looking for parking, in Sedona, Arizona, and Brendan is fixing an exploding pool pump, but that’s no reason to fret, because we’re ringing in the year with Sean Keane, from the Roundball Rock podcast and soon to be playing Cobb’s Comedy Club this January 7th in San Francisco. We’re discussing New Year’s Eve, and how it’s by far the most overrated holiday, but also mourning the death of a true poster, Mike Fossey, aka Mike F, by reading a few of his greatest posts. Then we mourn our dead The Wire actors, Ziggy and Clay Davis, and I tell the story of my one Isiah Whitlock Jr. encounter, which Matt rudely interrupts to call in from Sedona, Arizona while he’s in the middle of pooping. He tells us all about the crystal vortex and why he hates vacation parenting and thinks everyone in Sedona is actually on drugs. After that, we discuss Gwyneth Paltrow’s journey from actress to Goop CEO and back to actress again (Sean read a book!), and since it’s year-end list season, we review the one awards season film that Sean has seen, which happens to be Jay Kelly. Didja ever notice that Jay Kelly would’ve been much better if it had been about Adam Sandler’s character? Have you seen this? Have you heard about this? That leads into a bunch of related discussions, about American Beauty, Ben Affleck’s greatest roles and how well he lays pipe. And also Is This Thing On? and movies about stand-up comedy just generally. The regular Frot boys will be back next week, but in the meantime hope you like Sean and I just bullshitting about movies for a while. As always, no refunds.

Another day, another federal appellate court victory for the great and powerful President Donald J. Trump, and another feckless ruling by an unelected, black-robed, tyrannical, inferior, federal district trial court Biden judge who was raised to the federal bench only AFTER Trump's re-election but before he was sworn in has been hurled onto the rubbish heap of political history. Once again Trump's authority as the democratically elected Article II. Executive Branch President and Commander in Chief has been re-affirmed, after the unelected DC District trial court Judge Jia Cobb (Biden, Nov. 12, 2024) had taken upon herself to order Trump about as if he were a clerk in her court. A three judge DC Circuit court of appeals panel—consisting of two Trump judges and one Obama judge—UNANIMOUSLY found that Cobb's November 20 order enjoining Trump from deploying the National Guard to crime-torn Washington DC was a grotesque overreach of her limited Article III authority and stayed that order. 

1 / 4 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 31st Publish Date: December 31st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, December 31st and Happy Birthday to Donna Summer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues 2. New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement 3. Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 1 STORY 1: ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues The final meeting of the year for the Marietta Board of Education was a bittersweet one, full of hugs, tears, and heartfelt goodbyes as three longtime members—A.B. Almy, Kerry Minervini, and Jason Waters—stepped down. During the meeting, emotions ran high. Vice Chair Jaillene Hunter praised Almy for her relentless push for academic excellence. Angela Orange called Minervini “a woman who gives a million percent,” while Irene Berens, tearing up, described Waters as “an exceptional man and a dear friend.” Waters, who’s moving on to the Marietta City Council, called the moment “surreal.” Minervini, meanwhile, joked about finding a new hobby, and Almy expressed gratitude for her time on the board. The night ended with a video tribute, glass plaques, and a reminder of the board’s legacy: being named Georgia’s 2025 School Board of the Year. STORY 2: New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement At just 25, Andre Stafford is stepping up as the new chairman of the Cobb Young Republicans, ready to shake things up. “I’m all in,” he says, a mantra that’s driven him since he first got involved in politics after the 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump—a moment that, for him, changed everything. Stafford, a restaurant manager by day, wants to grow the group, boost voter turnout, and focus on issues like affordability. “The American Dream feels like a fairy tale to my generation,” he says. “We need more homeowners, less paycheck-to-paycheck living.” His goal? Turn Cobb red—and keep it that way. STORY 3: Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans 2 / 4 Big things are happening in Cumberland, and Kim Menefee, the CID’s executive director, couldn’t be prouder. “2025 was our best year yet,” she told lawmakers at a recent meeting. One highlight? The first phase of the New Day Palisades project at Paces Mill Park. With $6.3 million in upgrades—like better parking, trail access, and erosion control—it’s already drawing millions of visitors. Phase 2 kicks off in 2026, with a $9.5 million price tag and plans for a visitor center and river overlooks. Oh, and driverless shuttles? Coming in 2027. Free rides connecting The Battery, Truist Park, and more. Cumberland’s future? Bold. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 1 STORY 4: Cobb Superior Court Clerk asks judge to dismiss charges against her Lawyers for Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor are fighting to get her case dismissed before it even reaches trial. Meanwhile, prosecutors are busy filing motions over what evidence can and can’t be shown in court. Taylor, elected in 2020, faces four felony charges tied to allegations she mishandled passport fee records—pocketing over $425,000 in fees during her first two years in office. Things escalated when a whistleblower claimed Taylor ordered records destroyed, reportedly saying, “We’re just going to Donald Trump this thing.” Taylor denies wrongdoing, but if convicted, she’ll lose her job permanently. A hearing is set for Feb. 5. STORY 5: Marietta residents call for increased safety measures after crash on train tracks Residents are sounding the alarm after a truck barreled off the road and crashed near the train tracks at Kennesaw Avenue and Church Street last week. Melissa Korczyk, out for a walk with her toddler and dog, heard the screech of tires just before 10 a.m. “I look up, and this car is flying down Kennesaw Avenue,” she said. “It hit the tracks, went airborne, and slammed into the pedestrian signal.” The driver, who also hit a light post and tree, escaped with minor injuries and was charged with reckless driving. “It’s scary,” Korczyk said. “That intersection feels like an accident waiting to happen.” Break: 3 / 4 STORY 6: Marietta celebrates legacy of service as three council members retire The Marietta Fire Museum was full of laughter, hugs, and a few teary eyes last week as friends, family, and city staff gathered to honor retiring council members Andy Morris, Grif Chalfant, and Johnny Walker. “You’ve left a footprint on this city that just keeps getting better,” said Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin, summing up the mood of the night. Chalfant, who’s been on the council since 2005, joked about finally tackling 20 years of neglected home projects—and maybe fixing up his Triumph TR3. Morris, a lifelong Marietta resident, said he’s ready to relax with his new dog, Harry. “I might even pick up golf again,” he added. Walker, proud of his work on school traffic safety, plans to focus on real estate, photography, and more time at home. Each was presented with a Distinguished Service Award, a fitting send-off for years of dedication. STORY 7: Baby clothes program helps mothers in need year-round For nearly two decades, Rosemary Buckley has quietly made life a little easier for new moms in need. Every month, she gathers bundles of baby clothes—layettes—and delivers them to Wellstar Kennestone, where they’re given to families who could use a little extra help. “It’s not just store-bought stuff,” Buckley says. “Parishioners make blankets, tiny hats, even mittens. It’s beautiful.” Inspired by her 12 grandchildren and a simple church request back in 2007, Buckley has turned this into her mission. Monsignor John Walsh calls her a “woman of action.” She just calls it “something that needs to be done.” We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 1 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com 4 / 4 Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ● www.ingles-markets.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 26th Publish Date:  December 26th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 10 STORY 1: Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January  Big changes are coming to Piastra, the Italian spot that’s been a Marietta Square favorite since 2015. After New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will close its doors—but not for good. In January, it’ll reopen as Asher and Rose Modern Grocers, a café and market dreamed up by co-owners Greg Lipman and his mom, Betty Bahl. Why the shift? “We’ve been listening,” Lipman said. Locals have been asking for a specialty grocery store on the Square for years, and now they’re getting one—complete with fresh bread, local produce, prepared meals, and an all-day breakfast café. “We love this community,” Lipman added. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. The Georgia Republican Party announced Monday that Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left vacant by Rick Jeffares. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in immediately. “I’m honored, humbled, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections are something I’ve been passionate about for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season   For Jocelyn Dubuke, owner of Jardi Chocolates, 2025 has been a rollercoaster. Tariffs, supply chain chaos, rising costs—it’s enough to make anyone panic. And yet, back in January, she made a bold move: she spent every penny of last year’s revenue stockpiling chocolate. “I told my distributors, ‘Whatever you’ve got in the States, I’ll take it,’” she said. “I wasn’t about to tell my customers halfway through the year, ‘Oh, by the way, your chocolate’s double the price now.’” Chocolate’s tricky—rules you can’t break, ingredients you can’t grow here. But for Dubuke, it’s personal. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 10 STORY 4: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays  With the holidays happening, the Georgia Department of Transportation is hitting pause on lane closures—at least on interstates, major routes, and roads near shopping hubs. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the usual construction chaos. But don’t get too comfortable—crews might still be working nearby, and emergency closures? Yeah, those can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and if you’re curious about road updates, check out GDOT’s website or the 511GA app. STORY 5: Walton claims first county title in nearly two decades Walton’s boys wrestling team finally broke through, snagging their first Cobb County title in nearly 20 years Saturday at Harrison High. And they did it in style—five wrestlers in the finals, five gold medals. Coach Dylan Turner couldn’t stop smiling. “We’ve got everyone back from last year, and it took every single one of them to pull this off,” he said. “They’re just gamers.” The standout? Brandon Whiteford. An eighth seed at 165 pounds, he shocked the top seed with a pin in his opener, then clinched the title with a gritty 6-3 win in the final. “I love the pressure,” he said. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this much-delayed episode (recorded months ago, but stuck in editing limbo), we look at Chapter 21, and the original version of Chapter 22, which Jane Austen rewrote before publication to become the Chapters 22 and 23 we now have. This cancelled chapter is available in many modern editions of the book. We talk about Mrs Smith's infodump about Mr Elliot, her change in tone, her patronising attitude towards Nurse Rooke, how in the cancelled chapter Anne was more of an observer (compared to the much better final version where she has regained her voice), and the fact that the cancelled chapter is unpolished, and even if Jane Austen had retained that, it would still have been improved before publication.The character we discuss is Mr Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the engagements, and for popular culture Harriet reflects on the various film adaptations of Persuasion, considering some of the characters, as well as how each adaptation deals with three key scenes (presenting the backstory, Louisa's fall, and the scene at the White Hart Inn).Things we mention:General discussion:Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Paul Wray, ‘Persuasion: Why the Revised Ending Works So Well', Persuasions Online (2017), Volume 38, No. 1, Winter 2017.Historical discussion:Rory Muir, Love and Marriage in the Age of Jane Austen (2024)Popular culture discussion:Podcast Into the AustenverseBBC, Persuasion (1971) – starring Ann Firbank and Bryan Marshall. Watch on YouTube: Part 1 and Part 2TVE, Novela: Persuasión (1972) – starring Maite Blasco and Juan DiegoWatch on YouTubeBBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán HindsWatch on YouTubeClerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-JonesWatch on YouTubeNetflix, Persuasion (2022) – starring Dakota Johnson and Cosmo JarvisLouisa's fall from the Cobb (this YouTube video shows the same scene from the 1971, 1995, 2007 and 2022 adaptations of Persuasion) For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.  

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 24th Publish Date:  December 24th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 24th and Happy Birthday to Howard Hughes I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Atlanta's Christmas Day forecast sees temperatures near record high Vegan Bakery opens in East Cobb Marietta History Center revisits the Square’s Christmas Past All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 9 STORY 1: Atlanta's Christmas Day forecast sees temperatures near record high It’s not exactly sweater weather, folks—Christmas in Atlanta is shaping up to feel more like a spring fling. Highs are expected to hit the low to mid-70s, putting this year in the running for one of the warmest Christmas Days on record. The all-time high? A toasty 75 degrees back in 2015. Rain? Not likely. Just sunshine, warmth, and maybe a little disbelief. STORY 2: Vegan Bakery opens in East Cobb  Tropicups, a vibrant new vegan bakery, officially opened its doors on Saturday, bringing cupcakes, cakes, and a whole lot of heart to 2525 Shallowford Road. Owner and baker Renée de Gannes Penn started Tropicups as a home bakery, whipping up treats for friends and family after going vegan a few years ago. Now, with her first storefront, she’s serving up cupcakes, brownies, lemon-blueberry squares, and even vegan soft-serve ice cream. Custom orders? Yep, she’s got those too. The name “Tropicups” is a nod to her Trinidadian roots—“tropical” meets “cupcakes.” But her treats aren’t just for vegans. “People with dairy, egg, or gluten allergies love them too,” she said, though she notes the bakery isn’t allergy-certified. De Gannes Penn hopes Tropicups becomes a community hub. “I’m just so excited to share this with everyone,” she said. STORY 3: Marietta History Center revisits the Square’s Christmas Past  The Marietta History Center and Parks and Rec are taking a stroll down memory lane—Christmas tree style. Every year, Glover Park gets its holiday glow-up with a big, beautiful tree, and now the history center is celebrating that tradition by sharing photos of past displays. The collection spans from 1987 to 2001, showcasing everything from classic decorations to quirky, playful themes. “These trees have been the heart of Marietta Square’s holiday season for decades,” the museum shared on social media. “We’re thrilled to keep their stories safe—no dusting required!” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 9 STORY 4: Congregation Ner Tamid celebrates 10th annual Marietta Square Menorah lighting Marietta Square buzzed Saturday night—families, friends, officials, all huddled together under the glow of the menorah for Congregation Ner Tamid’s 10th annual Hanukkah celebration. The air smelled like latkes and fried donuts, kids clutching raffle tickets, hoping for gift cards from local shops. Rabbi Joseph Prass, marking a decade with the synagogue, called up children to light the candles, weaving the story of Hanukkah into the night. “Freedom,” he said, “is worth celebrating—publicly, boldly.” The crowd nodded, some teary-eyed. After all, safety isn’t guaranteed everywhere. Prass reflected on recent tragedies, grateful for this moment of peace. Chocolate coins flew, kids laughed, and the night ended with blessings sung loud enough to echo. STORY 5: Georgia Power wins approval for massive expansion   Chaos. That’s the only word for it. Last week, Georgia Power got the green light—unanimously, no less—from state regulators to build five gas plants, a move critics say could cost $60 billion. Sixty. Billion. Dollars. That’s five Hoover Dams’ worth of power, and nearly a 50% boost in capacity. Why? Supposedly, tech giants need it for their AI and server farms. But here’s the kicker: the numbers? Secret. Opponents begged for transparency—“show your work,” they said. Nope. Denied. The vote? Rushed, just weeks before two new Democratic commissioners take office. Break: STORY 6: Atlanta named best US city for Christmas in 2025 by WalletHub     Turns out, Atlanta’s the place to be for Christmas this year. WalletHub just crowned it the best city in the U.S. to celebrate the holidays in 2025. Why? Well, it’s not just the lights or the shopping (though there’s plenty of that). Atlantans are apparently big on giving—clothing drives, online donations, you name it. Generosity, it seems, is kind of our thing. San Francisco came in second (candy shops galore), Seattle third (tree farms and bakeries, anyone?). Meanwhile, Stockton? Dead last. But hey, as one expert put it: the best holiday moments? They don’t cost a dime. STORY 7: Georgia prepares for Sugar Bowl rematch as Ole Miss promises a better fight  Here we go again. Georgia vs. Ole Miss, round two—this time in the Sugar Bowl. The Bulldogs took the first matchup back in October, a wild 43-35 shootout in Athens, but Ole Miss? They’re not exactly rolling over. A lot’s changed since then. Lane Kiffin’s out, Pete Golding’s in, and Ole Miss just steamrolled Tulane. Oh, and they’ve got a new QB, Trinidad Chambliss, who’s been proving doubters wrong all season. Revenge? Maybe. Opportunity? Definitely. Buckle up. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 9 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Previously aired episode* Pascal Wagner interviews Brandon Cobb, a seasoned land developer and founder of HBG Capital. Brandon breaks down the highly misunderstood world of land development, revealing how value is created before a single house is built. He shares how his team entitles land and leverages national homebuilder partnerships to generate strong returns with mitigated risk. Brandon walks through real-world case studies, outlines the key due diligence steps LPs should take, and explains why the demand for affordable “little-a” housing remains strong despite market volatility. Brandon Cobb Current role: Managing Partner at HBG Capital Based in: Nashville, Tennessee Say hi to them at: ⁠https://hbgcapital.net⁠ or ⁠learnlanddevelopment.com Join us at Best Ever Conference 2026! Find more info at: https://www.besteverconference.com/  Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It's free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria.  Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠www.bestevercommunity.com⁠⁠ Podcast production done by⁠ ⁠Outlier Audio⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua, College Football Playoff predictions, restaurant review, movies, music, and more.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/porch-talk/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Garry "G" Cobb (former NFL linebacker & longtime Philadelphia sports talk host) checks in while Christmas shopping with thoughts on the Eagles' 29-18 win over Washington and on an important message his mother taught Garry & his siblings for years growing up (and even now at age 91 :)). J. Jackson (lead singer & lyricist for ApologetiX) is already done his Christmas shopping and was free to drop by to chat about a handful of the several dozen Christmas parodies the band has done as part of their 850+ song catalog. You can enter to win their latest two CDs on the WFIL home page and find out more about the band at www.apologetix.com :).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 19th Publish Date:  December 19th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 19th and Happy Birthday to Al Kaline I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre BREAK: THE STRAND STORY 1: South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future  Three mayors, three cities, and a lot to reflect on. Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons, Mableton Mayor Michael Owens, and Powder Springs Mayor Al Thurman gathered at the Riverside EpiCenter to talk about 2025 wins and what’s next for 2026 during the State of South Cobb event. Clemons? He’s proud of Austell’s bold move to raise the millage rate for the first time in decades. “It’s about reinvesting in our community,” he said, pointing to plans for downtown revitalization and hiring a city manager—finally. Owens celebrated Mableton’s new departments and leadership team, calling 2025 a year of “building the foundation.” Next year? It’s all about community engagement and growth. Thurman highlighted Powder Springs’ shiny new city hall and parking garage, plus job-creating developments. His focus for 2026? Sustainable growth and leaving a legacy of leadership. STORY 2: Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 Jaha Howard pulled off a narrow win Tuesday night, defeating fellow Democrat Roger Bruce in the runoff for state Senate District 35. Unofficial results show Howard, a dentist and former Cobb school board member, edging out Bruce with 51.9% of the vote to Bruce’s 48.1%. The seat, which covers parts of Cobb and Fulton counties, was left open when Jason Esteves stepped down to run for governor. Howard credited his win to personal outreach—hundreds of phone calls, he said, to build trust. “People want to feel heard,” he said. Bruce’s campaign struggled with name recognition, especially in Cobb. STORY 3: Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols  Glover Park got a dose of holiday magic Tuesday, thanks to Cobb County’s newest choir, “Cobb County Sonic Sound” (or, as they like to call themselves, “CoCo SoSo”). Led by Dr. Jatunn Gibson, head of the county’s Public Services Agency, the group—decked out in festive sweaters and holiday flair—belted out classics like “Joy to the World” and “White Christmas.” Oh, and they’ve got their own band too, all county employees. Between songs, they performed skits about elves saving Christmas. “It’s all about fun and camaraderie,” said Grace Williams, a choir member. “We’re connecting beyond work—and it’s a blast.” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: Jason Gaines named Mableton Citizen of the Year  Jason Gaines didn’t see it coming. This week, he was named the 2025 Mableton Citizen of the Year at the South Cobb Area Council meeting, and the surprise left him, well, a little speechless. “It just warms my heart,” Gaines said. “To know the work I’ve done is appreciated like this—it’s humbling.” Gaines, who’s the director of planning at Croy Engineering and chairs the Mableton Development Authority Board, was honored by Mayor Michael Owens. “Jason’s been a force,” Owens said. “His expertise and passion have shaped this community at such a critical time.” The guy’s résumé? Stacked. Leadership programs, board memberships—he’s everywhere. STORY 5: Anderson steps down as Walker football coach TJ Anderson pulled off something close to miraculous in 2025. With just 23 players—yes, 23—he guided Walker through a grueling 10-game season. The Wolverines finished 2-8, but they still earned a spot in the Class A-AAA Private state playoffs. Unfortunately, injuries piled up, and the team had to decline the bid. “We had to make the best decision for our kids,” Anderson said, reflecting on the tough call. But that season? It was his last. Anderson announced on X that he’s stepping down as Walker’s head coach after three years. “It’s been a journey,” he wrote, thanking the community and his family. BRAVES: Ha-Seong Kim is staying put in Atlanta—at least for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team’s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million option just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million. Kim joined the Braves late last season, claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end—1-for-19 in the last five games—but the Braves clearly see his potential. Kim’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But let’s not forget—this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases. The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent’s there. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 17th Publish Date:  December 17th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 17th and Happy Birthday to Eugene Levy I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal ‘History Rocks!’: Sonny Perdue celebrates America’s 250th at Allatoona High Sheriff’s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys 100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery Plus, Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 7 STORY 1: ‘History Rocks!’: Sonny Perdue celebrates America’s 250th at Allatoona High Allatoona High kicked off the buzz for America’s 250th birthday this week with a visit from the U.S. Department of Education’s “History Rocks! Trail to Independence” tour. And yes, former Gov. Sonny Perdue was there, rallying students to think big about the next 250 years. “America doesn’t stay great by accident,” Perdue told the crowd. “It takes work—your work. Education is what keeps democracy alive.” The event wasn’t just speeches. Students played history-themed games like “E Pluribus Unum” and a patriotic spin on “Family Feud.” Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale called it “tremendous,” reminiscing about celebrating the bicentennial as a kid in 1976. Full circle, indeed. STORY 2: Sheriff’s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys Cobb Sheriff Craig Owens and his team brought some serious holiday magic to Mableton schools on Saturday with their fourth annual Santa On Wheels toy drive. Over 1,600 toys were handed out at Lindley and Floyd middle schools, turning the day into a Christmas wonderland for families in need. “Seeing those kids’ smiles—it’s everything,” Owens said. “Times are tough, but this? This is why we do it.” Owens, dressed as Santa (with Mrs. Claus by his side), posed for photos and handed out gifts, while Christmas music played and kids lined up for presents—and even a chance to win a bike. STORY 3: 100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery   On a chilly Saturday afternoon, Kennesaw City Cemetery became a quiet, reverent place of remembrance. Volunteers—city officials, Scouts, families—gathered to lay wreaths on the graves of 139 veterans as part of the Wreaths Across America campaign. Each headstone, marked with an American flag, received a wreath. Volunteers paused, saluted, and reflected. “This is Christmas,” said Mayor Derek Easterling, a Navy veteran. “We honor them because they gave everything for our freedom.” For 8-year-old Scout Archer Linscott, it was about tradition. “We’ll be back,” his dad said. “It’s about remembering the past as we move forward.” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: Second suspect in Kell High School vandalism case charged, released from custody The second suspect in the Thanksgiving break vandalism at Kell High School has been charged, according to jail records. Hunter Bridges, 18, of Marietta, was arrested last Thursday and released on a $16,720 bond. He and Micah Zefo, 22, of Acworth, allegedly broke into the school on Nov. 24, causing over $12,000 in damage. Police say the pair climbed onto the roof, entered through a hatch, and spent hours inside. They reportedly drove floor scrubbers across the gym’s newly refinished hardwood, leaving deep scratches, and even tampered with school buses. Both face multiple felonies. The district called the behavior “unacceptable.” STORY 5: Cobb 911 earns triple accreditation as center of excellence  Cobb County’s Emergency Communications team just hit a major milestone: triple accreditation from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). That’s right—Tri-ACE status. Only 27 agencies in the world have it, and Cobb’s the first county agency in Georgia to pull it off. This recognition means Cobb’s 911 center excels in fire, police, and medical dispatch. It wasn’t easy—earning this required meeting 20 tough accreditation standards and passing expert reviews. “This is the gold standard,” said E911 Director Melissa Alterio. “It’s proof of the incredible work our team does every single day.” Break: STORY 6: Cobb Collaborative, Cobb Community Foundation honor community leaders    The Cobb Collaborative and Cobb Community Foundation came together for the 32nd annual Human Services Awards Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration of the people and organizations transforming lives in Cobb County. “This is about selflessness, innovation, and teamwork,” said Irene Barton, Cobb Collaborative’s executive director. “These honorees remind us what’s possible when we work together to tackle issues like homelessness and food insecurity.” Among the winners: Mark Riggans of Cobb Christmas and Janet Porter of Four Corners Group, honored for their service; Kelsey Thompson-White Battersby, recognized for her housing initiatives; and Kidz2Leaders, awarded $10,000 for breaking cycles of generational incarceration. STORY 7: Navigating Food Allergies During the Holiday Season: What Families Need to Know The holidays are all about food, right? But for families dealing with food allergies, festive treats can feel more like a minefield than a celebration. One wrong bite, and it’s not just a ruined party—it’s a trip to the ER. Over 33 million Americans have food allergies, and anaphylaxis-related emergencies have skyrocketed in recent years. Dr. Joanna Dolgoff says about 1 in 20 kids now has a diagnosed food allergy. Why? Better diagnoses, sure, but also changes in diet, environment, and how kids’ immune systems develop. Feeling overwhelmed? Totally normal. Start small: communicate, read labels, pack safe snacks, and always—always—carry epinephrine. Now, here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Break: THE STRAND HOLIDAY Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textfrom working in trucking, writing and performing his music. Randy is starting to kick butt in country music!!  Y'all go check him out atwww.randycobbmusic.comSupport the showThe David Bradley ShowHost: David Bradleyhttps://www.facebook.com/100087472238854https://youtube.com/@thedavidbradleyshowwww.thedavidbradleyshow.com Like to be a guestContact Usjulie@thedavidbradleyshow.comRecorded at Bradley StudiosProduced by: Caitlin BackesProud Member of CMASPONSERSBottled Water and Sweet Tea provided by PURITY DairyABlaze Entertainment

Brandon Cobb is based in Nashville, Tennessee where he specializes in land development. On today's show we are talking about navigating the curveballs that municipalities throw our way. To connect with Brandon and to learn more visit https://www.hbgcapital.net/, or if you want to learn more about land development, visit https://learnlanddevelopment.com/---------------**Real Estate Espresso Podcast:** Spotify: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/3GvtwRmTq4r3es8cbw8jW0?si=c75ea506a6694ef1)   iTunes: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-real-estate-espresso-podcast/id1340482613)   Website: [www.victorjm.com](http://www.victorjm.com)   LinkedIn: [Victor Menasce](http://www.linkedin.com/in/vmenasce)   YouTube: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](http://www.youtube.com/@victorjmenasce6734)   Facebook: [www.facebook.com/realestateespresso](http://www.facebook.com/realestateespresso)   Email: [podcast@victorjm.com](mailto:podcast@victorjm.com)  **Y Street Capital:** Website: [www.ystreetcapital.com](http://www.ystreetcapital.com)   Facebook: [www.facebook.com/YStreetCapital](https://www.facebook.com/YStreetCapital)   Instagram: [@ystreetcapital](http://www.instagram.com/ystreetcapital)  

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 12th Publish Date:  December 12th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre BREAK: THE STRAND STORY 1: Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb  Cobb County’s making moves to keep pedestrians safer in south Cobb, tackling two big projects: a pedestrian bridge near Factory Shoals Road and new bollards at Mableton Town Square Park. Let’s start with Factory Shoals. That bridge over I-20? Built in 1963, and, well, it shows. No sidewalks, no bike lanes—just a narrow shoulder that’s barely walkable. Commissioner Monique Sheffield said it’s been a problem for years, especially for folks working at nearby businesses. Now, the county’s greenlit a plan for a new pedestrian bridge alongside the old one, connecting sidewalks on both sides. And Mableton Park? Bollards are coming to stop cars from driving onto the grounds—because, yes, that’s been happening. STORY 2: Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects  The Gateway Marietta CID wants your thoughts—yes, yours—on 12 infrastructure projects they’re planning. These aren’t just random ideas; they’re focused on Franklin Gateway, South Marietta Parkway, and Delk Road. What’s on the table? Everything from streetscapes and trails to bridge replacements and new road connections. Some projects, like the Rottenwood Creek Trail extension ($20 million!) and Franklin Gateway bridge rebuild, are already in motion. Others, like adding Gateway signage or narrowing roads for multiuse trails, are still in the “what do you think?” phase. Your input will help shape what gets prioritized. Got opinions? Take the survey before the master plan wraps next year. Visit engage.publiccoordinate.com/en/project/gateway-marietta-cid-project-prioritization. STORY 3: The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker  The Georgia Ballet’s The Nutcracker is back, running Dec. 18–23 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, and it’s bringing all the holiday magic you’d expect—plus a little extra sparkle this year. Here’s the twist: they’ve teamed up with Hamp & Harry’s, a Marietta Square favorite, to add some festive flair. Think Nutcracker-themed cocktails (yes, there’s wine and beer too) in the lobby before the show and during intermission. The ballet itself? Pure enchantment. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Clara’s midnight adventure, snowflakes, sweets, and Daet Rodriguez’s choreography. There’s even a Sensory-Friendly performance on Dec. 18—perfect for kids or anyone needing a gentler experience. Tickets start at $23. Don’t wait. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: North Cobb Christian student wins statewide essay contest  North Cobb Christian seventh-grader Samille Shy just snagged first place in Georgia for her essay, “What Is Patriotism to Me?”—a big win in the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen contest, which had over 120,000 entries nationwide. Samille’s take on patriotism? It’s about giving back. She wrote about volunteering at a food pantry, helping out at The Humane Society, singing with her school chorus on Veterans Day, and being part of the Sea Cadet Corps. The Georgia VFW loved it, awarding her top honors. Next stop? The regional competition. Not bad for a middle schooler, huh? STORY 5: McEachern rolls into state championship game  Every time McEachern scores, the announcer calls out the updated score. And when the opponent has zero? Oh, the crowd lives for it. They stretch it out—“zerooooooo”—like it’s a victory chant. They’ve had plenty of practice. Over the last two seasons, McEachern’s flag football team has gone 51-2, allowing just 2.9 points per game with 35 shutouts. Monday was no different. The Indians blanked Lithia Springs 19-0, then crushed North Forsyth 33-0 to punch their ticket to the state championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Now, McEachern heads to the championship, chasing back-to-back titles. GEORGIA TECH: No. 22 Georgia Tech is heading to the Pop-Tarts Bowl to take on No. 12 BYU on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Kickoff’s at 3:30 p.m., and you can catch it live on ABC. This marks Tech’s third straight bowl trip—something they haven’t pulled off since 2012-14—and their 48th all-time, which ranks 14th in college football history. With a 9-3 record, it’s their best regular season since 2014. BYU (11-2) comes in hot, despite two losses to Texas Tech. It’s a ranked-vs.-ranked showdown, Tech’s first since the 2014 Orange Bowl. History’s on their side—they’re 2-0 in this bowl. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inspire, Empower & Educate with Alex Cobb (@alexanderscobb) where they share their biggest lessons learned and words of wisdom from entering the world of politics despite having a disability!   Join the FREE Facebook group for The Michael Brian Show at https://www.facebook.com/groups/themichaelbrianshow   Follow Mike on Facebook Instagram & Twitter

Zita Cobb grew up on Fogo Island, a remote fishing community off the coast of Newfoundland that operated for centuries without cash. Her childhood was shaped by a deep sense of place, the collapse of the inshore fishery, and a belief that communities survive through mutual care. When she left to study business, and later helped build JDS Uniphase into one of the most successful high-tech companies of its era, she carried those ideas with her. The rise and fall of the telecom bubble gave her a front-row view into what happens when profit and speed outrun purpose, sending her searching for a different model of development.In this episode of The Eric Ries Show, I sit down with Zita to talk about that journey and the philosophy that guides her work today. We discuss why she believes business is a tool for solving real problems and how communities can reclaim agency by understanding their own assets. Zita explains how Shorefast grew into a holistic set of enterprises on Fogo Island, including the Fogo Island Inn, which reinvests all surpluses into local culture and economic development. We talk about how communities can build their own pathways to development and why Zita believes lasting change begins close to home.—Brought to you by: ⁠Framer⁠: Build better sites, faster at ⁠https://www.framer.com/design⁠ Use code "ERIC"—Where to find Zita Cobb:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zita-cobb• Website: https://shorefast.org —Where to find Eric:• Newsletter:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ericries.carrd.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Podcast:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ericriesshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theericriesshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ —In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:15) How her father nudged her to leave Fogo Island(04:46) What life was like growing up on Fogo Island(08:37) A short history of Fogo Island(11:15) Leaving home to recover from tuberculosis(13:15) The experience of leaving for university(15:04) Early challenges at university(16:17) What education looked like on Fogo Island(18:01) How adapting to modern life shaped Zita's systems thinking(20:24) Zita's travels and early roles at Texaco and Shell(22:30) How Zita got into tech (24:05) How Zita learned that technical possibility alone is not enough(26:57) Joining JDS and taking it public (30:54) The rise and fall of the telecom bubble (34:08) Why taking JDS public felt like a mistake and what she learned about putting profit first(38:52) Zita's father's legacy (41:45) Why Zita spent five years sailing after ending her tech career(44:47) Zita's work distributing radios in Rwanda (46:32) Why she went back to Fogo Island to spark economic development (49:26) The beginnings of Shorefast(53:11) How the ownership model protects Shorefast's mission from the pitfalls of money(56:29) An overview of Fogo Island Inn and how its local-first mission spread (1:03:32) Why Shorefast chose the harder path and paid deep attention to details(1:08:18) What community means(1:12:09) How Shorefast Institute models a new approach to investing for development(1:16:53) Learnings from The Third Pillar (1:18:05) Why Shorefast created the economic nutrition label —You can find episode references at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ericriesshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—Production and marketing by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pen Name⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Eric may be an investor in the companies discussed.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 10th Publish Date:  December 10th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 10th and Happy Birthday to Med White Seven Nation Army I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Library Foundation launches online store to boost fundraising Powder Springs man charged in fatal shooting of mother and stepfather Kennesaw "Holly Days" parade spreads holiday cheer All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: Cobb Library Foundation launches online store to boost fundraising The Cobb County Library Foundation just got a little more creative with its fundraising—say hello to The Cobb Library Shop, an online store packed with bookish goodies. From cozy throw blankets and pet sweaters to pickleball paddles and “Get Carded” T-shirts, there’s something for every library lover. The shop, designed by library staff, features six themed collections, including merch for the bookmobile and holiday gifts. Proceeds? They go straight back into library programs like the Summer Reading Program and Teen Book’d. “This isn’t just about selling stuff,” said Sandra Morris, the foundation’s executive director. “It’s about building a bridge between the library and the community.” Shop now at cobblibrary.shop. STORY 2: Powder Springs man charged in fatal shooting of mother and stepfather A tragic scene unfolded in Powder Springs on Saturday, where a man is accused of fatally shooting his mother and stepfather. Police arrived at a home on Yoshino Terrace around 12:30 p.m. after a domestic disturbance call. Inside, they found Monica Brookins, 72, and John Wells, 73, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to the hospital, neither survived. The suspect? Martin Duberry, 31—Brookins’ son and Wells’ stepson—who also lived in the home. He’s now facing two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated battery, and a firearm charge, according to authorities. A heartbreaking loss for the family and community. STORY 3: Kennesaw "Holly Days" parade spreads holiday cheer   Downtown Kennesaw was buzzing with holiday cheer as the Holly Days parade rolled through, bringing floats, marching bands, dancers, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. The parade, with over 50 entries, started at Adams Park and wound its way down Watts Drive and Main Street. Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling stole the show, pedaling a tricycle decked out in Christmas lights and decorations, waving to the crowd in his festive suit. The parade wasn’t just for spectators. Performers like Sophia Allsen, a North Cobb High color guard member, said marching in the cold was worth it. “Seeing everyone’s smiles makes it all worthwhile,” she said. The festivities wrapped up with Santa waving from his sleigh float, followed by photos in Depot Park. Preston Bell, 10, summed it up: “I loved the candy—and I’m asking Santa for Robux!” For more Holly Days fun, visit kennesaw-ga.gov/hollydays. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: Braves great Dale Murphy falls short of Hall of Fame induction Dale Murphy’s wait for the Hall of Fame continues. The Braves legend fell short again on Sunday, earning just six of the 12 votes needed from the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee. It’s the same result as 2022, leaving fans and supporters—who’ve rallied around him for years—disappointed but undeterred. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” Murphy wrote on X before the announcement, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love. “Words can’t describe how much this support means.” Murphy’s career? A mix of brilliance and heartbreak. Seven All-Star nods, back-to-back MVPs in ’82 and ’83, 398 homers, five Gold Gloves. But injuries slowed him, and his Hall of Fame case has always been a debate. For now, the wait goes on. STORY 5: Senior living development advances  The Cobb County Planning Commission gave the green light to a 16-home senior living development in southwest Cobb—unanimously, no less. The project, proposed by Atlanta-based Romusa Properties, would rezone 3.29 acres on West Sandtown Road, right by Mud Creek Soccer Complex. The plan? Build attached homes, at least 1,800 square feet each, with brick, stone, and cedar shake exteriors. Pretty traditional, but cozy. There’s also a recreational area and a mail kiosk in the mix, plus a mandatory HOA and private streets. No objections, no drama—it sailed through. Next stop: Cobb Board of Commissioners on Dec. 16. Break: STORY 6: Marietta celebrates girls cross country team’s sixth state championship    The Marietta High girls cross country team took a well-earned victory lap Friday—on a bus, through the entire school district. Why? Six straight state championships. Six. Decked out in bright pink shirts, the 21 runners stopped at all 12 schools, greeted by cheering students, handmade signs, pom-poms, and blaring anthems like “We Are the Champions.” High-fives everywhere. Superintendent Grant Rivera led the charge, calling the team an “inspiration.” Senior Mary Nesmith, a two-time state champ herself, said, “It’s so special seeing the little kids. They’re so sweet.” The tour ended with Mayor Steve Tumlin’s proclamation. Six titles—and counting. The move follows “Wesley’s Law,” passed last year, which req ======uires schools to stock naloxone and train staff to use it. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, Brandon Cobb shares his journey from medical device sales to becoming a successful entrepreneur in real estate development. He discusses the importance of understanding the development process, navigating market risks, and the opportunities available in the Nashville market. Brandon emphasizes the significance of mitigating risks in development and the value of building a community through his Mastermind program, where he shares insights and strategies with aspiring developers.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Hello Colorado Rapids fans. This week on Holding The High Line, Red is back from England and recovered from jet lag. Rabbi has come down from his Thanksgiving food coma and high of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds winning the USL Championship. The guys give some brief thoughts on Inter Miami winning MLS Cup and the FIFA World Cup draw. Hey, we feel good about the USMNT getting out of the group. We discuss Colorado picking up the purchase option on Noah Cobb. Matt has some reporting on Sam Bassett and Rafa Santos. We discuss the coaching search, the profile of manager we think the Rapids are going for, and the timeline. Then we discuss MLS Free Agency and the SuperDraft. Palmer Ault hype. Once again, well done to Rapids 2, Erik Bushey, and Brian Crookham. Oh, and here's that ESPN article Mark mentions about the USL CBA. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Steph recaps her visit in Anaheim—starting with  getting over being sick over Thanksgiving, skipping a last-minute park reservation, and taking a cozy stroll through Downtown Disney where she did a little (okay, a lot of) shopping. After finishing her work training, she checked into Hotel Lulu and met up with Angel and Lindsay for a fun girls' night at DCA. They enjoyed wine at Sonoma Terrace, Festival of Holidays bites, Monsters Inc., Avengers Campus photos, shopping, and nonstop laughter.The next morning, Steph and the girls had a slow but memorable breakfast at Carnation Café before exploring Main Street, searching for a sweater, taking photos, and riding Storybook Land Canal Boats—where they learned each boat has its own name. The trio also visited Oga's Cantina, filmed content in the Esplanade, and eventually tried the red velvet Mickey waffles at Smooshies after a lost order mishap.Once the girls left, Steph enjoyed a peaceful solo evening in Disneyland—catching holiday entertainment, grabbing a Cobb salad at Plaza Inn, riding Pirates, and ending the night with castle photos. A brief panic set in when she realized she'd left her car keys in the trunk earlier, but luckily everything was safe.A whirlwind of Disney magic, girl time, and holiday moments—told through Steph's cozy, heartfelt adventures.Thank you to all of my listeners, friends and supporters! A special thank you to my sponsor, Arias Transportation, for supporting this podcast. Be sure to check them out at www.ariastransportation.com and download the app next time you need a ride in the LA area. Be sure to add Steph 20 in the notes for a 20% discount off your first reservation.Follow me on Instagram @Magic_Key_Adventures or use this link: https://www.instagram.com/magic_key_adventures/Feel free to email questions and comments at: magickeyadventures@yahoo.comSupport the show with a one-time donation at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/magickeyadhNew! Patreon: Join my Patreon, it's FREE!https://www.patreon.com/c/MagicKeyAdventuresSubscribe, rate and review!

Doug Cobb, founder of The Finishing Fund, is passionately convicted that we could see the fulfillment of the Great Commission in our generation. In 1994, Doug's life was changed when he joined Paul Eshleman and the Jesus Film Project for a trip to Nigeria where he caught the vision to see completely unengaged people groups reached with the Gospel. Utilizing his background in startups and venture capital, Doug eventually founded The Finishing Fund, a venture capital fund for the Great Commission, connecting donors to projects intended to reach the unengaged with the Gospel for the first time. In the last eight years, The Finishing Fund has helped get the Gospel to about 800 people groups who had never heard it before.   In his most recent book, The Sprint to the Finish, Doug discusses three major finish lines that need to be crossed to fulfill the Great Commission—seeing a first Believer in every known people group, a Bible translated into every language, and a church established in every village on Earth. To date, there are only 20 unengaged people groups left in the world, and by God's grace, The Finishing Fund and its collaborative partners have a shared goal to see the entire world reached with the Gospel by 2033.   Doug's conviction is simple but bold: The mission Jesus gave us can be completed in this generation, and God is already making it happen. If you want a front row seat to what God is doing around the world right now, you won't want to miss this episode.   Major Topics Include: Three finish lines to completing the Great Commission The current state of Gospel work in the world Comparing approaches—church planting and disciple making Stories of signs, wonders, and miracles drawing people to Jesus Fueling the Gospel spark in a community The biggest obstacles to fulfilling Great Commission What operational collaboration looks like The evangelistic power of a new Believer The Great Wealth Transfer and the Great Commission Looking forward to the return of Jesus QUOTES TO REMEMBER “The statistics tell us that most Christians sitting in churches can't even tell you what the great commission is, much less can they tell you anything about what's happening.” “I think we're within a year or two by God's grace of seeing the work begun in every people group.” “God is preparing people of peace in these places and it's almost like the Spirit is there tapping His toe and waiting for us to show up to close the deal. He's already working in the hearts and minds of people to prepare them.” “When God's people are willing to go, Jesus will go with them.” “Why would the Spirit not do today what He did way back then to validate the testimony of Paul and the other apostles?” “I don't think it's coincidental that God has created this wealth in the last days at a time when it's needed, and that creates an enormous responsibility for our generation.” “This generation has more than we need to complete the Great Commission.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW The Sprint to the Finish by Doug Cobb The Finishing Fund (see our interview with founder Doug Cobb) Jesus Film Project (see our interview with Executive Director Josh Newell) Finishing the Task (see our interview with FTT Global Church Planting Strategist Dan Hitzhusen) IllumiNations Bible Translation Alliance (see our interview with Todd Peterson or John Chesnut) ACHIEVE Alliance New Covenant Missions Coalition of the Willing Jim Wise, Financial Advisor with Ronald Blue Trust (see our past interview here) The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Luke 16:10a | Faithfulness   One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much,   Matthew 28:19 | The Great Commission   Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,   Matthew 24:14 | Then the End Will Come   And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.   Revelation 7:9-10 | Every Nation, Tribe, and Tongue   After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”   Acts 1:8 | Power to Witness   But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebookand LinkedIn.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 5th Publish Date:  December 5th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 5th and Happy Birthday to Walt Disney I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Daniel Gaddis elected to Marietta City Council Proposed Atlanta Road apartments delayed amid safety, school capacity concerns Honorees announced for 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 4 STORY 1: Daniel Gaddis elected to Marietta City Council City planner Daniel Gaddis clinched the Ward 3 Marietta City Council seat Tuesday night, defeating life coach Nora Gaudet in the runoff election. With all precincts reporting, Gaddis secured 698 votes (64.15%) to Gaudet’s 390 (35.85%). The results will be certified Dec. 8. “It’s been a long road, but we worked hard and had incredible support,” Gaddis said, reflecting on a campaign that reached over 3,500 voters. Still, he admitted the race wasn’t without challenges, particularly the push to label him politically. “Parks, sidewalks, public safety—these aren’t partisan issues,” he said. Gaudet, who moved to Georgia five years ago, acknowledged the uphill battle of being a “wild card” candidate. “I didn’t have deep connections here,” she said, adding that campaigning through the holidays was exhausting. “People are tired by a runoff—they just want it over.” Both candidates highlighted inequities in Marietta, from neglected neighborhoods to housing affordability. Gaddis spoke of the need to preserve Marietta’s charm while addressing real issues like homelessness and unsafe streets. Gaudet, meanwhile, emphasized the voices of overlooked residents. “We’ve done great work,” Gaudet said. “And I hope those quiet voices finally get heard.” STORY 2: Proposed Atlanta Road apartments delayed amid safety, school capacity concerns  After hearing concerns about traffic and overcrowding, the Cobb County Planning Commission hit pause Tuesday on a proposed 249-unit apartment complex at Atlanta Road and I-285. The decision? Delayed until February. Flournoy Development Group wants to rezone 3.79 acres to build the rental apartments—mostly one-bedrooms—but the project’s sparked pushback. Locals worry about traffic, U-turn safety, and overcrowding at Nickajack Elementary, which is already 269 students over capacity. Attorney Kevin Moore, representing Flournoy, said the plan has been revised: fewer units (down from 274), shorter building height along Atlanta Road, and a parking deck tucked into the five-story section near the interstate. But traffic remains a sticking point. Residents like Nat Milburn, from Olde Ivy at Vinings, raised alarms about U-turns, claiming the project could add 500 daily U-turns and spike accidents by 800%. Moore dismissed the data as “opinion,” but Planning Chair Nadia Faucette wasn’t sold. “I’m for the project, but safety’s a big concern,” she said. The commission will revisit the case Feb. 3, giving Flournoy time to address traffic, signage, and other community concerns. STORY 3: Honorees announced for 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement  LiveSafe Resources, a Marietta-based shelter for domestic violence survivors, has revealed the honorees for its 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement. Every year, the organization celebrates 15 women who’ve made waves—personally, professionally, and through volunteer work. One will be crowned 2026 Woman of the Year at the awards gala on March 20 at the Atlanta Marriott Northwest. This year’s honorees include leaders like Cobb Solicitor General Makia Metzger, Braves exec DeRetta Rhodes, and Judge Jaret Usher. The gala will feature dinner, auctions, and awards like the Pat Head Dignity Award for public safety and the Kim Gresh Survivor’s Award, honoring a survivor whose story inspires. Tickets are available now. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 4 STORY 4: Carlyle Kent reelected to Marietta City Council  Councilman Carlyle Kent is staying put in Ward 5, clinching reelection with a commanding 80.49% of the vote over challenger and former Councilman Reggie Copeland, who pulled in just 19.51%. Unofficial results show Kent received 495 votes to Copeland’s 120, with all precincts reporting. The results will be certified Dec. 8. This race felt like déjà vu—Kent unseated Copeland back in 2021. “My neighbors pushed me to run four years ago because they felt the ward wasn’t being represented well,” Kent said Tuesday, surrounded by family, friends, and supporters who cheered as the final numbers came in. Kent credited his team’s hard work—canvassing, phone banking, and connecting with newly redistricted voters—for the win. “I’m always optimistic, but it’s humbling to see that support,” he said, adding, “I give thanks to the Lord for putting the right people in my life.” Looking ahead, Kent said his focus remains on improving Ward 5. “I want to leave it better than I found it.” STORY 5: Wheeler to host big-name programs in Tournament of Champions SPORTS UPDATE Wheeler’s boys basketball team will host the Tournament of Champions Holiday Classic on Saturday, featuring 16 top teams from Georgia and beyond. Games start at 10 a.m. and run every 90 minutes, with $22 tickets covering all eight matchups. Highlights include Kell, led by BJ Love and Kamari Kilgore, facing Meadowcreek at 11:30 a.m., and Wheeler, ranked No. 1 in Georgia and No. 4 nationally, taking on Nevada’s Coronado at 8:30 p.m. Wheeler boasts five Division I recruits, including Colben Landrew (UConn) and Amare James (Clemson). Coronado’s Munir Greig, Nevada’s top player, will also take the court. SOCCER: The U.S. Men’s National Team will face top-tier competition in its final pre-World Cup tune-ups, with Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosting two marquee matchups. On March 28, the U.S. takes on No. 8 Belgium at 3:30 p.m., followed by a clash with No. 6 Portugal on March 31 at 7 p.m. Both games will air on TNT, HBO Max, and more. As the new home of U.S. Soccer, Atlanta gets the spotlight, offering fans a front-row seat to world-class soccer as the team preps for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 4 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Morgan, VP of Data Science at Lincoln Financial Group, joins me to unpack what a real data culture looks like inside a complex, highly regulated business that has policies on the books for decades. We talk about how to turn Gen AI buzz into real value, why governance and quality suddenly matter to everyone, and how to tackle data technical debt without stalling delivery.Chris shares concrete ways he finds champions in the business, balances centralized and federated models, and keeps stakeholders excited about the future while he quietly fixes the messy data foundation underneath it all.Key takeawaysData culture is less about dashboards and more about curiosity, repeatable processes, and raising the analytical watermark across the company, not just in the data team.The teams that will win with Gen AI are the ones that can safely connect proprietary data to these models, which demands strong governance, clear definitions, and shared standards.A blended model works best for scaling data work, where a central function sets guardrails and standards while domain teams stay close to the business and own local decisions.Paying down technical debt works when it is framed in business terms, tied to revenue and risk, and treated as a regular slice of capacity instead of a one time side project.Education is now part of the job for data leaders, from internal road shows on Gen AI to simple stories that explain why foundational data work matters before you can ship shiny tools.Timestamped highlights00:04 Setting the stage Chris explains his role at Lincoln Financial and how data science supports life and annuity products that can live for decades.03:33 The Cobb salad story A simple grocery store analogy that makes data standards and shared definitions instantly clear to non technical stakeholders.06:06 Finding the right champions Why Chris prefers curious partners who will invest time with the data team over senior leaders who just want results without changing behavior.08:33 Governance as Gen AI fuel How regulatory pressure and the need to trust what goes into models are pushing data governance and quality into the spotlight.11:11 A practical way to attack data technical debt How Chris decides what to fix first, and why he tries to reserve a steady slice of team time for cleanup so progress is visible and sustainable.17:44 Managing Gen AI expectations From road shows to constant communication, Chris shares how he keeps enthusiasm high while also being honest about the timeline and effort.One line that sums it up“These generative models are going to become a commodity and what will separate companies is who can take the most advantage of their proprietary data.”Practical playbookStart small with data culture by picking one engaged business partner, one problem, and one outcome you can measure clearly.Reserve a consistent portion of team capacity for technical debt, even if it is only a small percentage at first, and make the tradeoffs visible.Use stories, analogies, and simple rules of the road so stakeholders can understand how data systems work without becoming experts in the tech.Call to actionIf this conversation helped you think differently about data culture and Gen AI inside your company, follow the show and leave a rating so more engineering and data leaders can find it. To keep the discussion going, connect with me on LinkedIn and share how your team is tackling data culture and technical debt right now.

Danielle Cobb returns to I Am Redemption, and this conversation goes deeper than ever. Sobriety wasn't her final battle. She opens up about the hidden struggle she was still fighting behind the scenes… even when life looked “good” from the outside.We talk about rebuilding her relationship with herself, navigating body image and self-worth, confronting silent internal battles, improving her relationship with food, and stepping into a new season of confidence as she launches her own podcast to help others heal. If you've ever felt like you were supposed to be “okay,” but weren't, this is the episode you needed to hear.Built Different by Pain. Powered Different by Purpose.Real people. Real stories. Recovery, adversity, transformation, and the courage to rebuild.Hosted by Shawn Livingston, founder of I Am Redemption & the Redemption Crew community.We Are What Comes After. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Can Kell pull off the ultimate upset and keep Cobb County’s championship hopes alive? In this episode of Cobb Football Friday, we break down the Longhorns’ stunning semifinal run, their showdown with powerhouse Creekside, and what it will take to win on the road. Plus, we recap Walton’s thrilling playoff fight, Whitfield Academy’s historic season, and preview the flag football state playoffs. We even touch on Kennesaw State’s remarkable turnaround and bowl prospects. It’s all things football—pads and flags—packed into one episode you don’t want to miss! Cobb Football Friday Chapters 00:00 Cobb Football Friday Kickoff00:45 Week 17 Overview & Semifinal Stakes02:06 Kell’s Dominant Win Over Cartersville04:20 Walton’s Playoff Run and Heartbreaker at Valdosta06:41 Whitfield Academy’s Historic Season Ends08:34 Preview: Kell vs Creekside Showdown13:19 Keys to Victory for Kell15:38 Flag Football Playoffs Preview17:28 College Football Spotlight: Kennesaw State’s Big Turnaround19:46 Season Wrap-Up and Looking AheadSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this year I heard Doug Cobb speak about the organization he leads, The Finishing Fund, and I was intrigued. The Finishing Fund is like a venture capital fund for evangelical work around the world. Like a venture capital fund in the secular space, it doesn't fully fund a work, but provides seed capital to get the work started. It works through partners “on the ground” in some of the most remote and hostile areas on the planet. I liked what I heard for a variety of reasons that are important to us here at MinistryWatch. For one, The Finishing Fund exercised a high degree of accountability and transparency. It was nimble. It could fund a group in weeks or months, and if the projects went well, it could make follow-on investments. And, equally important, if things were not working out, it could pull the plug on that project just as quickly. I wanted to have Doug on the program to discuss this innovative model for missions and philanthropy. He's my guest today. Doug Cobb is himself a major investor in the Fund and volunteers as its managing partner. An entrepreneur from Louisville, Kentucky, Doug has been working with Finishing the Task and the Issachar Initiative for a decade. We had this conversation via zoom. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Warren Smith. And I'd like to remind you that we are in the midst of our year-end fundraising campaign. Here at MinistryWatch we get more than a third, nearly 40 percent, of our budget in the past two months of the year. For us, that means about $190,000. If you are able to contribute, click here. Until next time, may God bless you.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 3rd Publish Date:  December 3rd Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 3rd and Happy Birthday to Andy Williams I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 3 STORY 1: Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications Cobb Schools are buzzing with opportunities for students to dive into STEM and STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. And now, four more schools have joined the ranks of those earning certifications in these fields. South Cobb Early Learning Center and Ford Elementary snagged STEAM certifications, while Betty Gray Middle and Walton High earned STEM honors. “It’s been a joyful, messy journey,” said Marilyn Thomas, director of South Cobb Early Learning Center. “Our kids, teachers, and families all came together—building, experimenting, creating art. It’s hands-on learning at its best.” With over 50 certified schools, Cobb’s commitment to innovation is clear. Just ask the students at Tritt Elementary, who recently celebrated Girl-Powered Robotics Day. STORY 2: Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman Michael McNeely, newly elected to Mableton’s City Council, is all about service—clear, honest, and hands-on. “I’d rather over-communicate than leave people guessing,” he says. McNeely, who moved to Mableton in 2019, has a long history of giving back. From his days as an Eagle Scout to serving in the Army National Guard and working in public safety for over two decades, he’s built a life around helping others. “It’s in my blood,” he says. Now, as District 2’s councilman, he’s focused on smart redevelopment, public safety, and creating spaces that bring the community together. Think parks, sidewalks, and maybe even a new community center. “We’ve got work to do,” McNeely says, “but Mableton’s got the people and the heart to make it happen.” STORY 3: Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays  Georgia drivers are catching a break at the pump—finally. After the Thanksgiving travel rush, gas prices have dipped, with the state average sitting at $2.82 per gallon as of Monday, according to AAA. That’s about $42 to fill up a 15-gallon tank. Prices are 5 cents lower than last week but still 2 cents higher than last month. And if you’re in Cobb County? You’re paying a bit more—$2.89 per gallon. The priciest spots? Savannah ($2.88), Atlanta ($2.86), and Macon ($2.85). Meanwhile, Dalton drivers are smiling at $2.68. Nationally, gas has dropped to $3, the lowest since May 2021, thanks to low crude oil prices and sluggish demand. AAA predicts prices could stay low through the holidays. For EV drivers, no changes—public charging still averages 38 cents per kilowatt hour. Want to save? AAA suggests fuel rewards programs, paying cash (some stations charge more for credit), and driving smarter. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Cobb fraternal organization recognized as best in Georgia The Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, better known as the Cobb County Alphas, just snagged a huge honor—Alumni Chapter of the Year—at the Alpha Georgia District Association Convention in Augusta. Why? Their leadership, community impact, and dedication to the fraternity’s mission stood out among 25 chapters across Georgia. “This award is a testament to the passion and hard work of every member,” said Chapter President Harold G. Dickerson. One standout initiative? The Youth to Men mentoring program, where 70 Cobb high schoolers meet bi-monthly to learn life skills and give back to the community. “We’re shaping greatness,” said Steven Boyd, Callis Foundation Chair. For more, visit CobbAlphas.org. STORY 5: AirTag leads police to Chick-fil-A theft suspect  Richard George Cintron, 47, of Dallas, is facing charges after allegedly swiping three Rubbermaid utility trash carts and an Apple AirTag—worth $1,545 total—from the Chick-fil-A on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw. According to police, Cintron was caught on surveillance cameras, along with his personal vehicles, during the thefts on Sept. 14 and 28. The AirTag? It led officers straight to his home, where Paulding County deputies found the stolen items near his truck. Cintron was arrested Nov. 19 and charged with theft by taking over $1,500. He spent less than 12 hours in jail, released on Nov. 20 after posting a $5,000 bond. Break: STORY 6: Strand Theatre's Andy Gaines wins Governor’s Award    Gov. Brian Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp announced Monday that Andy Gaines, executive director of the Strand Theatre, is one of this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. The awards, presented with Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities, honor 10 individuals or organizations making a real difference in Georgia’s cultural landscape. “Georgia’s arts and entertainment scene has fueled our economy for decades,” Kemp said. “These honorees have left a lasting mark on their communities and our state.” Under Gaines’ leadership, the Strand generated $5.4 million in economic impact last year, supported 80+ jobs, and contributed $230,000 in government revenue. Recipients will receive a handmade mahogany sculpture by Fairburn artist Etienné Jackson. STORY 7: Mount Paran Christian School collects over 10,000 diapers for Bartow Family Resources  Mount Paran Christian School’s high school BETA Club and National Honor Society recently rallied their community for a cause that hits close to home—helping local parents in need. Through their annual Fall Diaper Drive, students encouraged families to donate diapers and wipes for Bartow Family Resources, a nonprofit in Cartersville that supports parents and babies. Flyers went up, announcements were made, and the response? Incredible. Over 10,640 diapers and 1,180 wipes poured in, stacking up at the school’s doors. Student NHS officers counted, sorted, and loaded the donations, ready for Bartow Family Resources to distribute essentials like diapers, formula, and clothing to families who need them most. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 3 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Botanical Banter Podcast: Gardening Insights with Rita and Ron Step into the world of gardening wisdom as Rita Heikenfeld, an Appalachian herbal scholar and media personality, joins host Ron Wilson for a delightful conversation about seasonal gardening and cooking. From transforming holiday leftovers into gourmet salads to discovering the surprising year-round benefits of holiday spices like cinnamon and ginger, this episode offers practical advice for both your garden and kitchen. The conversation blooms with insights about growing and cooking collard greens, storing Jerusalem artichokes, and the surprising health benefits of common holiday spices that do more than just flavor your food. Rita shares her expertise on how these aromatic additions can boost your mood and support your immune system throughout the year. Later, arborist Ron Rothhaas joins to tackle tree care questions, offering expert advice on ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer damage, selecting the best street trees, and why winter is the ideal time for oak tree pruning. The episode wraps with a weather forecast that has gardeners preparing for potential winter storms. ## Timestamps:04:13 - Rita's recipe for collard greens with "pot liquor"07:32 - Jerusalem artichoke storage tips09:15 - Leftover turkey Cobb salad recipe12:30 - Holiday spices with year-round benefits14:25 - Cinnamon varieties and health benefits16:20 - Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties27:45 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer31:35 - Best trees for street planting34:20 - Winter oak tree pruning benefits38:30 - Winter weather forecast for gardeners Whether you're looking to make the most of your holiday leftovers, understand the medicinal properties of your spice rack, or prepare your trees for winter, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can use immediately in both your garden and kitchen. Subscribe now for more seasonal gardening wisdom!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking for a unique and profitable investment opportunity? In this episode, Brandon Cobb joins Russ and Joey to discuss how to transform farmland into cash-flowing communities. As a co-founder of HBG Capital, Brandon shares insights into turning raw land into thriving residential areas that national homebuilders are eager to buy. He dives into the current market demand for entry-level housing, explaining the critical shortage and the opportunity for smart investors to profit by developing land for affordable housing. Brandon walks through the step-by-step process of land acquisition and entitlement, and explains how forced appreciation increases land value. He also discusses the benefits of working with national homebuilders and the importance of location and market research. Whether you're a real estate investor or looking to break into land development, this episode provides a roadmap for creating profitable communities and building long-term wealth.Top three things you will learn: -Land development as a profitable investment-Understanding the growing gap between renting and home ownership-Strategies for success in the land development marketAbout Our Guest:Brandon Cobb is the CEO of HBG Capital. He began his career in medical device sales, following the conventional path society laid out for him. After achieving early success in the corporate world, Brandon's life took an unexpected turn when he was unexpectedly let go from his dream job. This event sparked a transformation, as Brandon realized he needed to take control of his own financial future.Determined to create a new path, Brandon ventured into life coaching, blogging, and launching a course on breaking into medical device sales, all of which ended in failure. However, he didn't give up and turned to real estate investing. Brandon now specializes in developing affordable housing communities in Nashville, TN, while helping others achieve financial freedom and live life on their own terms by using real estate as a tool to unlock time and life experiences.Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests and do not constitute financial advice. Always consult a licensed professional for financial decisions.This episode is sponsored by a podcast show partner. We may receive compensation if you use links or services mentioned in this episode.The hosts may have a financial interest in the programs or services mentioned in this episode.Connect with Brandon Cobb:-Website - https://www.hbgcapital.net/ and https://learnlanddevelopment.com/

More To The Story: America in these last 10 years has experienced generational political upheaval, clashes over race and identity, and a battle over the very direction of the country itself. Few writers have charted these wild swings better than staff writer for The New Yorker and Columbia Journalism School Dean Jelani Cobb. And for Cobb, it all started when he was asked to write about an incident that was just beginning to make national news: the death of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed Black 17-year-old in Florida. Cobb recently released Three or More Is a Riot: Notes on How We Got Here: 2012–2025, a collection of essays from more than a decade at The New Yorker, that all begin with that moment of national reckoning over Martin's death. On this week's More To The Story, Cobb looks back at how the Trayvon Martin incident shaped the coming decade, reexamines the Black Lives Matter movement and President Obama's legacy in the age of Donald Trump, and shares what he tells his journalism students at a time when the media is under attack.Producer: Josh Sanburn | Editor: Kara McGuirk-Allison | Theme music: Fernando Arruda and Jim Briggs | Copy editor: Daniel King | Digital producer: Artis Curiskis | Deputy executive producer: Taki Telonidis | Executive producer: Brett Myers | Executive editor: James West | Host: Al Letson Donate today at Revealnews.org/more Subscribe to our weekly newsletter at Revealnews.org/weekly Follow us on Instagram and Bluesky Read: Trump Shuts Down Diversity Programs Across Government (Mother Jones)Listen: Being Black in America Almost Killed Me Part 1 (More To The Story)Watch: Where's Black MAGA While Trump Wipes Black History? (Mother Jones) Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices