Podcasts about Cobb

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 20th Publish Date:  June 20th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, June 20th and Happy Birthday to Brian Wilson I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Sprayberry grad heads to Naval Academy Georgia Power offers energy efficiency resources to beat the summer heat Pharma company with major presence in Smyrna plans new factory Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Soda 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: Sprayberry grad heads to Naval Academy Daniel Silva, a Sprayberry High School graduate, earned a spot at the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy with a nomination from Sen. Jon Ossoff. Inspired by his Marine father, Silva dedicated himself to academic and leadership excellence, earning a $200,000 NROTC scholarship and founding Sprayberry’s men’s volleyball team. A first-generation Brazilian-American, Silva credits his family, faith, and mentors like Cmdr. Axel Spens for his success. He plans to major in computer science and become a Marine cyber officer, blending his passion for service with technology. Silva’s journey reflects resilience, community values, and a commitment to leadership, inspiring those around him. STORY 2: Georgia Power offers energy efficiency resources to beat the summer heat As summer begins, Georgia Power helps customers stay cool and manage energy bills with energy-saving tips and resources. Suggestions include changing air filters, sealing air leaks, using LED bulbs, and running appliances outside peak hours. The EASE Program offers free home upgrades for qualifying low-income households, while the My Power Usage tool tracks energy consumption and provides alerts to stay within budget. Customers can access local assistance for utilities, food, and shelter via GeorgiaPower.com/Assistance and explore income-based programs at GeorgiaPower.com/IQPortal. With tools, programs, and community partnerships, Georgia Power empowers customers to reduce energy costs and navigate summer efficiently. STORY 3: Pharma company with major presence in Smyrna plans new factory UCB, a Belgium-based biopharmaceutical company, announced plans to build a state-of-the-art drug manufacturing facility in the U.S., creating 300 permanent jobs and over 500 construction jobs. The facility, aimed at supporting UCB’s growing U.S. patient base, will have an estimated $5 billion economic impact. A feasibility study is underway to select a location prioritizing talent and innovation. UCB’s U.S. workforce has grown 73% since 2017, supported by $4.5 billion in investments and 15 FDA approvals. CEO Jean-Christophe Tellier emphasized the facility’s role in strengthening UCB’s supply chain, advancing innovation, and contributing to the U.S. biomedical and economic landscape. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 4: KSU police officer fired, charged with attacking colleague A Kennesaw State University police officer, Brandall Irving, 39, was fired and faces battery and false imprisonment charges after allegedly detaining a female staff member against her will. The incident occurred on June 3 at KSU’s Marietta campus, where Irving reportedly pushed the woman against a desk, blocked the door, and refused her repeated requests to leave. He also allegedly grabbed her arm when she tried to open the door. Following an internal investigation, Irving was terminated on June 6. Arrested the same day, he was charged with misdemeanor battery and felony false imprisonment, later released on a $10,000 bond. STORY 5: Lockheed announces reliability breakthrough for Marietta-made C-130s Lockheed Martin announced a significant breakthrough in the wing structure design of its C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, extending its lifespan by 40% to 122,500 flight hours. The new design, tested rigorously in a program funded by the U.S. and Royal Canadian Air Forces, exceeded expectations by simulating real-world flying conditions. Built at Lockheed’s Marietta plant, the C-130J is a tactical airlifter used by 28 operators across 23 nations, with over 560 units delivered and 3 million flight hours logged. Since 2009, the aircraft has featured an Enhanced Service Life center wing box, doubling its original 45,000-hour service life. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Soda We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Anca Platon Trifan on the Events Demystified Podcast as she delves into the art of powerful event planning contracts and negotiation tips with Brittney Cobb, Director of Global Events with Innovate Meetings and Managing Director at Assemble Hospitality.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 18th Publish Date:  June 18th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, June 18th and Happy Birthday to Paul McCartney. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta Approves Data Center on Bells Ferry Cobb County Protesters Flood the Streets for 'No Kings' Protests 6-Year-Old Injured in Smyrna Vehicle Shootout; Two Men Arrested 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Marietta Approves Data Center on Bells Ferry The Marietta City Council approved a data center on Bells Ferry Road, sparking mixed reactions. Atlanta-based MMM Acquisitions plans a $100M campus with two buildings and a substation. Attorney Kevin Moore emphasized its role in supporting AI and digital services, generating $71.5M in tax revenue over 10 years. Critics, including residents and protesters, raised concerns about energy use, environmental impacts, and limited job creation. Moore countered that advanced cooling systems would minimize water consumption and disruptions. Supporters, like Mayor Steve Tumlin, hailed the project as a win for Marietta's growth. The 31-acre site will include buffers to shield nearby neighborhoods. STORY 2: Cobb County Protesters Flood the Streets for 'No Kings' Protests Marietta saw hundreds protest as part of the nationwide "No Kings" movement opposing President Donald Trump. Organized to coincide with Trump’s birthday and military parade in D.C., protests in east Cobb and downtown Marietta attracted diverse participants advocating for issues like LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and equity. Protesters carried handmade signs and received honks of support from passing cars, though negative comments also arose. Demonstrations at the Cobb Courthouse and Johnson Ferry remained peaceful, with no arrests reported. Participants, including educators and families, criticized Trump's policies, calling for justice and empathy while rejecting the idea of centralized power. STORY 3: 6-Year-Old Injured in Smyrna Vehicle Shootout; Two Men Arrested A six-year-old was injured in a Smyrna shootout between two vehicles near Campbell and Springs roads Sunday afternoon. Police say the child was in one of the vehicles and was struck in the stomach. The child was rushed to a local hospital, though their condition remains undisclosed. Authorities identified and charged suspects Craig Radford Calhoun, 56, of Douglasville, and Eric Allen Rushi Jr., 30, of Atlanta. Both face multiple charges, including aggravated assault, cruelty to a child, and firearm possession during a crime. The suspects are held without bond at Cobb County Jail as the investigation continu 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: TOP TECH_FINAL STORY 4: Safety, Literacy and Cell Phones: Rivera Reflects on Marietta School Year Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera reflected on the 2024-25 school year, celebrating literacy advancements, safety upgrades, and student success. About 586 students graduated at Northcutt Stadium, a proud moment for Rivera. The district expanded its Literacy and Justice for All initiative into middle grades, backed by a $1.1M grant, aiming to improve reading skills at all levels. Controversy centered on cellphone policies, with debates leading to a new high school pilot limiting device use in class. Security was bolstered with detectors and AI surveillance. Despite budget constraints, Marietta maintained programs and approved raises, reinforcing its commitment to students and staff. STORY 5: Leashing Dogs at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area welcomes dogs on its trails but stresses a key rule: dogs must always be on a six-foot leash. With over three million annual visitors, leashes ensure safety for pets, people, and the environment. Past incidents with unleashed dogs have led to plant damage, injuries, and confrontations, highlighting the importance of this rule. Leashing also protects dogs from dangers like snakes, coyotes, and unsafe water. To promote responsible pet ownership, CRNRA offers the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, teaching leash etiquette and trail safety. Participants can earn certificates and make their dogs official B.A.R.K. Rangers. Break: INGLES 5 STORY 6: Drug trafficking investigation nets 11 arrests Law enforcement in Middle Georgia recently concluded Operation "Westside Wakeup," targeting gang-related crimes. The Bibb County Sheriff's Office, assisted by Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit, arrested 11 individuals on charges tied to drugs, guns, and violence. Authorities seized 17 pounds of marijuana, cocaine, Ecstasy, fentanyl, firearms, and $110,000 in cash, highlighting the connection between illicit drug operations and organized crime. Sheriff David J. Davis stressed the need to combat such activities, while AG Chris Carr vowed accountability for violent offenders. Federal agencies, including the FBI and DEA, played key roles in the investigation's success. STORY 7: Georgia Power completes hydrogen fuel test Georgia Power and Mitsubishi Power completed a groundbreaking test using a 50% hydrogen and natural gas blend at Plant McDonough-Atkinson in Smyrna, cutting carbon emissions by 22%. This world-first trial follows a 2022 test with a 20% blend. Natural gas, accounting for 40% of Georgia Power’s energy, remains crucial for flexibility and baseload power. The company’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan proposes hydrogen-capable turbines at Plant Yates to further reduce emissions. While this innovation marks progress, environmental groups remain critical of Georgia Power’s reliance on natural gas and coal. The plan awaits a PSC vote on July 15. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandon Cobb of HBG Capital joins Dave Dubeau to break down a unique and highly profitable real estate strategy: turning farmland into affordable housing communities—and then selling that land straight to Wall Street-backed national home builders. In this episode, Brandon shares how he transitioned from medical device sales to doing over $22 million a year in real estate development. He explains what “little a” affordable housing is, why it's in such high demand, and how his company is strategically positioned to meet that need in Tennessee and beyond. You'll learn: How Brandon accidentally got into land development (and why he stayed) The surprising advantages of selling “just the paper” instead of building homes Key factors to consider when dealing with city approvals and civil engineers What makes a successful community project—and how poor planning can tank one Why now is the time to partner in affordable housing land deals   - Get Interviewed on the Show! - ================================== Are you a real estate investor with some 'tales from the trenches' you'd like to share with our audience? Want to get great exposure and be seen as a bonafide real estate pro by your friends? Would you like to inspire other people to take action with real estate investing? Then we'd love to interview you! Find out more and pick the date here: http://daveinterviewsyou.com/

Author and scholar Kyl Cobb joins us to share his lifetime pursuit of knowledge and the truth. We discuss his journey to becoming a paranormal investigator and the differences between ghosts and demons. We then take a deep dive into ancient religions and civilizations.Kyle Cobb on FacebookKyl Cobb on InstagramKyl Cobb's books on AmazonFrom The Shadows Podcast is a program where we seriously discuss the supernatural, the paranormal, cryptozoology as well as ufology. Anything that cannot be rationally explained has a platform for discussion here on the From The Shadows Podcast.Web https://www.fromtheshadowspodcast.comFacebook https://www.facebook.com/fromtheshadowspodcastInstagram - Shane Grove  https://www.instagram.com/shanegroveauthorInstagram - Podcast https://www.instagram.com/fromtheshadowspodcast#Religion #God #ghosts #demons #haunting #author #AncientCivilizations #KylCobb

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 13th Publish Date:  June 13th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, June 13th and Happy Birthday to Tim Allen I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Wellstar Kennestone Achieves Elite National Recognition in Cardiothoracic Surgery Trio Accused of Trafficking Over 4 Pounds of Meth in Smyrna Marietta Adopts $428M Budget with Staff Raises, Flat Millage Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: Wellstar Kennestone Achieves Elite National Recognition in Cardiothoracic Surgery Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center has earned the highest three-star rating in four cardiac care categories from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, placing it among the top cardiac surgery programs in the U.S. and Canada. The ratings, based on patient outcomes from 2022-2024, recognize excellence in procedures like CABG (open-heart surgery), Aortic Valve Replacement, and combined surgeries. This achievement highlights Wellstar’s clinical excellence, multidisciplinary teamwork, and patient-centered care. With over 110 cardiologists and surgeons, Wellstar Kennestone is a leader in cardiovascular care and the first in Georgia to earn Comprehensive Cardiac Care Certification. STORY 2: Trio Accused of Trafficking Over 4 Pounds of Meth in Smyrna Haley Noelle Mitchell, John David Moses, and Craig Myers were arrested on June 3 in Smyrna for allegedly trafficking 4.44 pounds of methamphetamine found in a black Infiniti FX35 during a search. Mitchell also faces charges for failing to stop at a stop sign and having an obstructed license plate. All three are charged with drug trafficking and remain in custody without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. Moses also has a detainer hold. STORY 3: Marietta Adopts $428M Budget with Staff Raises, Flat Millage The Marietta City Council approved a $428 million budget for fiscal year 2026, maintaining a flat millage rate of 4.692 mills for the 24th consecutive year. The budget, up 1.78% from last year, includes a 4% employee raise (pending economic conditions) and funds 812 employees, adding two positions to save costs on downtown sanitation. Public safety remains a priority, with 52% of the general fund allocated to police and fire services. Despite rising costs and flat revenue, the city avoided service cuts. A 3.5% wastewater rate increase will take effect July 1 due to higher treatment costs. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 4: Marietta Water Bills to Increase Starting July 1 Starting July 1, Marietta residents will see a 3.5% wastewater rate increase on their water bills, adding about $1.25 per month for the average household. The city attributes the hike to rising costs from the Cobb County Water System for wastewater treatment, infrastructure maintenance, and regulatory compliance. Officials emphasized their commitment to keeping rates low while maintaining reliable, high-quality service. For more details, residents can contact Marietta Power and Water’s customer service. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — June 13 - 15 This weekend offers a variety of events in Cobb County! Sparkles Family Fun Center in Kennesaw hosts a skating night with the Peach State Roller Derby team on Friday, including free skate rentals, laser tag, and playground access with $15 admission. Cobb County PARKS kicks off its free "Scene on the Green" series Friday night in Marietta with live music and a performance of *Beetlejuice Jr.*. Acworth Arts Alliance’s "Dreaming" exhibit reception is Saturday, showcasing storytelling art. The Strand Theatre continues its run of *Grease* through June 22, and Mableton’s Riverside EpiCenter Farmers Market on Sunday features 40+ vendors, music, and entertainment. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 11th Publish Date:  June 11th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, June 11th and Happy Birthday to I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Chattahoochee’s Paces Mill Park Gets Long-Awaited Facelift Police Investigating Apparent Murder-Suicide in Northeast Cobb Cobb to Consider Donation, Complete Fullers Park Renovations 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Chattahoochee’s Paces Mill Park Gets Long-Awaited Facelift After nine months of construction, Paces Mill Park in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area reopened, marking the completion of Phase 1 of the $15.8 million New Day Palisades renovation. Updates include improved parking, trail and river access, erosion control, and native prairie restoration. The $6.3 million phase finished on time and under budget. Officials celebrated the park’s sustainable upgrades, emphasizing environmental stewardship. Phase 2, set for 2026-2027, will add a visitor center, pavilion, river overlooks, and more. The park, part of a 48-mile recreation area established in 1978, sees over 270,000 visitors annually. STORY 2: Police Investigating Apparent Murder-Suicide in Northeast Cobb Cobb Police are investigating a suspected murder-suicide involving a man and woman at a home on Research Drive in northeast Cobb. Officers responded Saturday morning and believe the man, a resident of the home, was the offender. The victims' names have not been released. Police urge anyone with information to call (770) 499-3945. STORY 3: Cobb to Consider Donation, Complete Fullers Park Renovations The Cobb County Board of Commissioners will vote on accepting a $207,482 donation from the East Side Baseball Association to complete renovations at Fullers Park in Marietta. The funds will cover upgrades, including replacing the infield with synthetic turf for better playing conditions and reduced maintenance. The project, part of the 2011 SPLOST program, lacked sufficient funds to finish without the donation. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell praised the association’s support, highlighting the park’s value to the community. 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: TOP TECH_FINAL STORY 4: Mableton Man Charged with Cruelty to Goldendoodle Xavier Maurice Garner of Mableton is accused of animal cruelty for allegedly beating his Goldendoodle with a belt and forcefully dropping its cage after the dog defecated indoors. The April 12 incident at Riverview Landing Apartments was captured on video, showing the dog yelping during the abuse. Garner faces charges of cruelty to animals, though he does not currently appear in jail records. STORY 5: Braves to Host 5th Annual Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Night on June 14 The Atlanta Braves will host their fifth annual Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Night at Truist Park on June 14 during their game against the Colorado Rockies. The event celebrates EBCI culture with performances by Raven Rock Dancers, educational booths, and short film screenings at The Battery Atlanta. Pre-game festivities include an on-field presentation featuring EBCI royalty and recognition of the community's ties to the U.S. military. This event highlights the Braves' long-standing partnership with EBCI, aimed at showcasing and supporting Cherokee culture and initiatives. Break: INGLES 3 STORY 6: 1,000+ Attend Cobb Library Summer Reading Kickoff Over 1,000 readers gathered at Switzer Library for the kickoff of Cobb County Public Library’s summer reading program, themed “Color Our World.” The event featured activities like crafts, photo booths, and library mascots, promoting literacy and community engagement. Participants of all ages are encouraged to log reading minutes and complete bingo cards with reading and activity goals for prize entries. The program, running until July 31, aims to celebrate reading and keep kids engaged during summer. Families praised the library’s interactive approach, emphasizing the importance of early literacy and cultural enrichment. STORY 7: Taste of Smyrna is Sept. 6 The Taste of Smyrna “Festival of Delectable” will take place on Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Village Green in downtown Smyrna. Featuring over 25 restaurants, attendees can enjoy food samples priced from $1 to $10. The event includes live music, a beer garden, and a Kids Zone with inflatables. Last year’s winners included Mezza Luna for Best Entrée and Copeland’s for Best Dessert. Expected to draw over 20,000 attendees, proceeds from soda and water sales will benefit the Smyrna Education Foundation. Admission is free. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The boys are back recapping the player movement from the NFBC Main Event Week 101 FAAB and are joined by NFBC sharp Gregg MartinNews- Roman Anthony - called up but owned everywhere so nothing actionable.  What is the fantasy fallout once Abreu is back? - Eury - season debut- Ryan Weathers - shoulder injury now?- Leody DFA- Orioles getting healthy - Mullins, TON and Westburg should all return this week.  Cowser returned last week.  This cannot be good for Laureano/Carlson/Urias/MayoMost Money Spent8 Players over $1,00011 Players over $500Cag Ronny MoTeel MeadowsSGL - 3.2 IP in his first start, 2-step this week but I was worried he might not even pitch 5 innings.  Olson and Cobb rehabbing, he should still stick but who knows?David Fry - I know the Guards have a lot of lefties upcoming but I was shocked to see him added so widely and for $24 on averageFesta - Feels like a tremendous price given the job security with Pablo and Zebby down for the foreseeable futureMcGreevy - made another spot start on Sunday but back to AAA todayElder - gem in SF this week taking AJSS's spot in the rotation.  Gets Colorado this week but schedule might get a little tougher if he stays on the current schedule, but he's a rainout away from lining up vs. Miami and the Angels instead of some Mets and Phillies games.Laureano - Mullins and TON are set to return this week - has he done enough to carve out a near everyday job?Wenceel Perez - off the IL on 5/26, played all but one game until Friday, then sat Friday and Sunday, probably what caused the 7 drops in addition to the 29 adds.  Seems like since Meadows came back, they gave Tork, Keith, and Carpenter all a day off each and used those to get Perez in.SPs - Wrobleski, Burrows, Walter, Priester, ParkerOFs - Freeman, Melton, JerarIF - Nick Gonzales, Ryan Ritter, RomyRPs - Randy Rodriguez, Chris MartinKeep or DropZebbyWeathersPabloMax MeyerTony Gonsolin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PullHitter merch is here! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Welcome to the PullHitter Podcast, your destination for actionable resources and tools to grind your way to ultimate fantasy baseball success.Support my work and join the Pull Hitter Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Access to lively Discord with highly active members sharing player evaluations, draft boards and strategies..get a leg up on your league mates!-Player Breakdowns series in audio and video form-Draft recaps from me-additional Launch Angle episodes-additional Guest episodes-ad free listening-Much more!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/user?u=32383693&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on twitter: @pullhitterpod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/PullHitterPod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @deadpullhitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/deadpullhitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email : pullhitterpodcast@gmail.com Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠pullhitter.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My link tree with all of my links in one spot:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/pullhitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Also check out me cohosting the Launch Angle Podcast with Jeff Zimmerman and Rob Silver!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/robe

Today, we continue our series "For His Glory" by looking at singleness. Scripture teaches that we can glorify God in powerful ways in singleness that are different than those who are married. Join us!

This Sunday we began a new series titled "For His Glory." In this episode, we are studying marriage and how God calls us to live for His glory in this covenant.

Episode 6 of our Grape Expectations Series features Moby Grape & Skip Spence biographer Cam Cobb detailing Skip's June 1968 mental breakdown, as he grabs a fire axe and goes after drummer Don Stevenson.  That error in judgment lands him in Bellevue for six months, and upon his release he heads to Nashville with his family to create his groundbreaking solo album Oar.  Here's just a few of the many things that Cam discusses with Discograffiti in Part 3 of our discussion:Exactly what happened when Skip lost the plot;As much info as is available on the mysterious Joanna Wells, the witchy woman who seemed to be at least partially responsible for Skip's overnight transformation;The creepy details of Don's visit to Joanna's Greenwich Village pad;A peek inside Bellevue, as somehow Skip experiences his most inspired creative surge;And a track-by-track breakdown of not just Oar, but every released moment in the 3-CD AndOarAgain box set collection!There'll be a short sneak peak running publicly for free, but the entirety of this podcast will only be accessible on the Major Tier of Discograffiti's Patreon. Don't miss it, or you'll only be getting part of the story. Get it as a one-off, get the full series, or better yet just subscribe.Full Episode: Patreon.com/Discograffiti (available on the Major Tier & up)Free Sneak Peek: linktr.ee/discograffitiPurchase the full Grape Expectations Collection at a discount: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1467935Subscribe to Discograffiti's Patreon and receive a ceaseless barrage (4 shows a week!) of must-hear binge-listening. It's completely free to be a basic member, $1 to get your backstage pass, $5/month for the weekly Sunday show by & for our community, $10 for weekly early release, ad-free, super-extended Director's Cuts of the main show plus access to half our Patreon episode archive, & $20 for Discograffiti's weekly bonus episodes and access to our entire Patreon episode archive. There are now over 300 Patreon episodes.Order Cam Cobb's Skip Spence bio: https://a.co/d/iuSyBGcCONNECTJoin our Soldiers of Sound Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1839109176272153Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DiscograffitiPodfollow: ⁠⁠https://podfollow.com/1592182331⁠⁠YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClyaQCdvDelj5EiKj6IRLhwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/discograffitipod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Discograffiti/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiscograffitiOrder the Digital version of the METAL MACHINE MUZAK 2xLP (feat. Lou Barlow, Cory Hanson, Mark Robinson, & W. Cullen Hart): www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/197404Order the $11 Digital version of the MMM 2xLP on Bandcamp: https://discograffiti.bandcamp.com/album/metal-machine-muzakOrder the METAL MACHINE MUZAK Double Vinyl + Digital package: www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/169954Merch Shop: https://discograffitipod.myspreadshop.com/allVenmo Dave A Tip: @David-GebroeWeb site: http://discograffiti.com/CONTACT DAVEEmail: dave@discograffiti.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hooligandaveInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/davidgebroe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaveGebroeThere is no other Patreon in existence where you get more for your money. 4 shows a week is what it takes these days to successfully blot out our unacceptable reality…so do yourself a favor and give it a shot for at least one month to see what I'm talking about.  If you're already a member, please comment below about your experience.  www.Patreon.com/discograffiti#mobygrape #sanfrancisco #sixties #billgraham #fillmorewest #gordonstevens #doobiebrothers #weirdherald #billydeanandrus #donstevenson #peterlewis #bobmosley #jerrymiller #robertplant #skipspence #avalonballroom #grapeexpectations #thebyrds #jeffersonairplane #matthewkatz #camcobb #bellevue #jormakaukonen #discograffiti #metalmachinemuzak #soldiersofsound #grapeexpectations #thematrix #martybalin #omarspence 

 Karen Saves The Universe: Part 3Karen Embarks on a cure campaign.Based on a post by LingeringAfterthought, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Karen sighed, "Might as well. Let's go kill the libido of an entire civilization, Holland."Holland took her arm and soon the cell where she was held disappeared and another space formed around them. Captain Hemsworth and several crew members from the ship stood nearby, as well as Ensign Holland who was still holding her arm, reassuringly. Looking around, Karen saw that they were in what appeared to be a sound-booth of sorts. One crewmember activated some equipment and moved one protruding tentacle closer to Karen's mouth and another toward Captain Hemsworth's."Are we ready, Ellis?" Captain Hemsworth asked, clearing his throat. Ellis nodded and stepped back from the tentacles. Hemsworth tapped the end of the tentacle and a booming noise reverberated around the room. He cleared his throat several more times and straightened his collar. "People of Priam! Your deliverance has come! You sent us forth among the stars to find the cure to the horrid addiction of filth that has infiltrated our minds and we have not failed you! We have dedicated our lives to this effort, foregone having families, and any comforts of home to bring you this salvation! Behold; The Karen!" he proclaimed, gesturing for Karen to speak."Um; hi?" Karen said, unsurely. Hemsworth glanced at Ellis who was reading some type of display. Ellis frowned and motioned for her to continue speaking. "Um; my name is Karen;""Hi Karen;” several crew members responded unanimously before Captain Hemsworth cut them off with a gesture."Um; I'm not quite sure what I'm supposed to say. I heard you're all having some troubles. I'm sorry. I know what that's like. I've had some troubles, too. I married the wrong person; someone who didn't really love me. I wasn't brave and I tried to avoid trouble too much. I had four kids, but they grew up seeing me treated badly, so they don't really see me as being worth much; if they don't need me to be a mom anymore, what good am I to them? I love them, but; I wish I had done more with my life. Now, I'm getting a divorce; and now that I'm in my 50's, I'm not young and beautiful anymore, so it's like I'm invisible to most people. My body hurts more than it used to; and I'm afraid most days. I don't know what's going to happen to me. Everything keeps changing and I don't know where I belong. I feel like I've failed all the time. But, they said that maybe I could help you, so; I hope I can help make things better for you. I'd like to see something good come out of all this," Karen said, wiping some tears off her cheeks. Holland stepped next to her and took her hand. She smiled and leaned her head on his shoulder."Ellis?" Hemsworth asked.Ellis looked up from the display, a disconcerted expression on his face. "I don't understand;” he murmured, leaning down and feverishly working on the equipment. "They're hearing it. I know they're hearing it;”"It's not working? She just spoke more than it took to knock out the entire bridge crew! What do you mean it's not working?" Hemsworth said, frustrated. Karen looked at Holland, who simply shrugged.Captain Hemsworth frowned with determination and motioned to Karen, "Speak again. Louder. Talk about the cobb salad! Men, brace yourselves!" he ordered."Cobb salad?" Karen repeated, surprised. "Oh, well, um; it's just yummy. It's got hard boiled eggs, tomatoes, bacon, and avocado on a bed of lettuce; chives and bleu cheese over the top is good, too. The nice thing is that all the ingredients are put into neat little rows across the lettuce, so you can choose exactly what you want in each bite! It's not just a big mess like other salads. You know, I could make you one ; do you guys have avocadoes?" she said enthusiastically, looking to Holland.Holland immediately began looking up something on his hand-held computer. "Av-o-ca-does; do they yield their young willingly, or do we need to;""What the hell is going on???" Captain Hemsworth yelled, grabbing Holland's ear and looking inside. "Holland! You're not wearing protection! Why aren't you unconscious on the floor?""Oh, um; they were kind of uncomfortable, and they made it hard to hear what she was remembering, and;""You Remembered With The Karen? What Is Wrong With You?" Hemsworth shouted, before calming himself. "Momoa, get some caffeline ready. I need to hear her again," he said, bracing himself as he pulled what looked like slugs out of his ears. "Speak again about the salad;”"Okay, uh; most like to eat it with a vinaigrette? I think that gets to be a bit too much if there's bleu cheese on top, though. Sometimes I'll get it with ranch or something creamy because then;""What the hell, Holland! What did you do to The Karen? I barely feel anything!" Hemsworth yelled, grabbing Holland by the uniform."Um; I don't know; we just talked and remembered; you know, she's really nice, if you get to;""Dammit, You've Broken The Karen, Holland! How Are We Supposed To;" Captain Hemsworth yelled until he was interrupted by a knock nearby.Lieutenant Ellis activated a control on his display and a hole formed in the wall of the room. An assembly of Priamites entered the room, as smoothly as if they were rolled in on a platform together. The crew of the Onan immediately fell prostrate on the floor before them. Karen, unwilling to lie face-down on a floor she hadn't cleaned herself, looked around uncomfortably and gave the assembly a small wave. One Priamite raised her hand to return the gesture but was quickly stopped by her neighbor."Welcome, crew of the Onan," one of the assembly said, followed by the rest of the assembly nodding agreeably. "We are most appreciative of all your; efforts. We realize that you have dedicated several of your lifetimes to freeing our civilization from the throes of pornographic addiction, and for your many sacrifices, we thank you," the speaker said, then glanced around uncomfortably at the others. "Most unexpectedly, ah; while the Eros Curse was most distressing to the initial generations, the subsequent generations acclimated to it rather quickly. Then, as fashions changed, the Eros Curse became more of a joke, really; dance mixes were made, memes;”"Excuse me?" Captain Hemsworth said, lifting his face from the floor."I mean, sure, the Eros Curse is still out there. It's just that it's just become something people live with. It doesn't take over our lives, but some indulge in it a little after the kids have gone to bed for the night. I mean, it's not really such a big deal. It adds a little spice to an otherwise boring life, you know?""Boring life?" Hemsworth repeated, rising to his feet. "Are you telling me that all of Priam just walks around, living life, thinking about; that?""Well, yes, but we are very grateful for all you and your crew have done for us. We express our thanks to all the crews of the ships we loaded up with uptight intellectuals that were determined to rid our civilization of; alternative thoughts. We have come here to present you and your crew with a commemorative plaque for all your;""Is this some kind of joke?" Hemsworth said, pacing around. "I've been trekking throughout the universe looking for a cure to your abhorrent lust-filled thoughts and now you just want to give me a plaque for a lifetime of sacrifice because you don't see a problem with your disgusting sticky existence?""Well, there's no need to kink-shame;” the assembly spokesperson muttered, "Honestly, you never wondered why they sent the most uptight assholes on the planet off on a vague 'mission' and never really asked for progress reports?""I don't believe this;” Hemsworth said, his eyes bulging, nostrils flaring. "We've sacrificed our lives for nothing???""Oh, I see where this is going;” Karen said to Holland, who seemed to be trying to assume a duck-and-cover position."How could you do this to us???" Hemsworth yelled."Use the diaphragm for projection, baby; you can do it;” Karen encouraged."I Want; To See; The Manager!" Captain Hemsworth yelled at the top of his lungs, causing a feedback loop to screech throughout the room. The last thing Karen saw before falling unconscious was the sight of every Priamite in the room projectile vomiting on each other. The stench was overwhelming.Karen's Humility.Karen lifted her face off the bathroom floor, overwhelmed by the stench. She brushed off a spare piece of toilet paper stuck to her face, as she tried to remember what had happened. Her lungs burned from what she slowly recognized as pepper spray. She gathered her purse and stumbled out of the stall and looked at herself in the mirror. Her eyes were red, and a bruise was swelling where her cheek hit the floor. She splashed some cold water on her face and wiped off the makeup that streaked in the process. This was Snookers; not Baker's Pie. She had just ripped a kid a new asshole for not having cobb salad on the menu. What was she doing with her life?Upon exiting the bathroom, she ran into Travis the Waiter, who looked like he had just splashed water on his face, too. Dread and unease filled his face upon seeing her before it was quickly masked into concern. "Oh, um; are you okay? Can I get you some ice for that?" he asked, looking at the bruise on her cheek."What? Oh, no, honey. I'm okay. I just fell," she said, before meeting his eyes and taking his hand in hers. "Travis, I'm so sorry about the way I treated you. That was awful, and I have no excuse. You didn't deserve that.""It's okay; it happens," Travis said, carefully."It shouldn't, though. I was wrong, and I'm sorry. Would you mind if I just gave you some cash to cover the meal and snuck out of here? God knows what that group of biddies will gossip about when I go out there like this," Karen said, gesturing to herself."Yeah, that should be no problem," Travis said, taking the money she offered. "Are you sure you're okay?"Karen nodded, "I'm fine. I've just got some things to do. You've got a sweet heart, honey. Keep listening to it."Karen swallowed nervously as she went up the walkway to the small suburban house. She hadn't called before coming. It was rude of her not to call ahead of time, but then again, she was pretty sure that her number had been blocked. She didn't know if her oldest son had gone "no contact" or just "low contact" with her, but she was pretty sure her daughter-in-law would threaten to call the police within five minutes of her ringing the doorbell. Nevertheless, when she got up to the door, Karen put her finger forward and rang the bell."What do you want, Karen?" Hailey's terse voice came through the doorbell."Oh; you got one of those camera doorbell things; that's nice;” she began, unsure of how to say what was in her heart without a face in front of her."What do you want?" Hailey repeated."Um; I wanted to talk with you;""The last time you wanted to 'talk' with me, you just wanted to see my kids while you criticized my inadequate housekeeping, my inept child-rearing, and my unattractive post-pregnancy body. So, forgive me if I'd prefer not to have a heart-to-heart, Karen," Hailey interrupted."You're right," Karen said, looking at the dark circle holding the doorbell's camera. "I did that. I did that. I have not been kind to you. When Cal Jr. brought you home, I was not welcoming. I should have been; because you deserved that. You deserved it because you made my son happy. You have made him happier than I've ever known him to be; and that's what I've always wanted for him. If you were just like me, if you did all the things that I obnoxiously told you to do; he wouldn't be half as happy as he is with you; just as you are. If for no other reason than my son's happiness, you have my gratitude. I'm sorry that I've wasted the chances you've given me to know you better. You're brave and confident and funny. Honestly, I think you're the person I wished I could have been at your age. I'm sorry for a lot of things but being wasteful; saying thoughtless things that hardened people's hearts; those are the things that I wish I could take back the most. So, um;” Karen said, checking her notes on her phone's notepad to make sure she got all the points she wanted, "that's pretty much it. Oh, and I put that chocolate mousse recipe you liked on this index card so you can make it, but feel free to call me if you can't read my writing; or if you, you know, ever need anything."Karen nodded at the doorbell and started back down the walkway toward her car, blinking back tears. She had wasted so much time, so many chances. She didn't know if there was a point in trying again now, but she had to. She wasn't getting any younger.As she reached the end of the walkway, she was nearly knocked over by two little bodies running into her and grabbing onto her legs. Tears fell freely down her cheeks as she bent down to pick up her grandchildren, kissing them until they tried to wiggle away. As they started simultaneously telling her everything they had been doing while she was away, Karen's eyes drifted up to the doorway where her pierced and tattooed daughter-in-law stood. "Thank you" Karen mouthed silently over her grandchildren's backs.Karen pushed open the doors of Forest Glenn Hospice Care, her bag stuffed with an array of items and went up to the front desk. "Karen Weaver. I'm here for Dana Stevens," she said.The new girl at the reception desk looked at Karen with quiet unease. "Um; Ms. Stevens has requested only visitors who have;" Karen smirked and lifted the wig off her head, revealing her clean-shaven head. "Oh! Great! Go right in," she said, relieved.The corridor of the hospice facility was peaceful and quiet; exactly the kind of thing the old Dana would hate. Entering her room, Karen looked for any signs that other visitors had been to see Dana but saw nothing. Dana was napping again, her face drawn and gaunt, but thankfully not in pain. Karen put down her bag in a nearby chair and took out a rolled-up electronic piano keyboard and unfurled it on a table next to the hospital bed. As she was on her hands and knees trying to find an outlet to use, she heard Dana clear her throat. "What the hell is that?" she asked, smirking as she nodded at the keyboard."Your afternoon's entertainment. I ordered it on Amazon; you should have seen the bitchy reviews. Reminded me of you. Mind you, I haven't played since Cal got rid of the piano when it didn't fit in the Brooklyn apartment, so you're in for a treat," Karen said, rubbing her hands together and moving her glasses on top of her head so she could see the keyboard controls."Calvin Carmichael in a Brooklyn apartment. My god. What was it that emptied the Carmichael family coffers after they stole you away from me, again?" Dana asked, her sunken eyes taking in every detail of Karen's face as she hovered over the keyboard."Bernie Madoff; cleaned 'em dry. His parents were ever so shocked when they had to sell their properties and move to Florida," Karen said. "They weren't poor; they had enough to retire, but; they were horridly middle class.""Karma's a bitch," Dana said, pushing back against her pillows to sit up more. "Kare; I'm so sorry I didn't talk with you when you came back to the apartment. I could have helped you; we both would have helped you."Karen's smile faded, remembering and wondering what might have been. Dana would have helped her, but she was certain Dana's help would be help to get an abortion; and then she would never have had the joy of knowing her grandchildren. Dean would have; well, it was impossible to know what he would have done, but he would have helped. "Well, consider this your punishment," Karen said, stretching her fingers. "Are you ready?""I'm on opiates, baby. Bring it on;” Dana said, a smile moving across her face.Karen's fingers moved across the keys, and at first, she was put off by the strangeness of the keys and the sensation of tapping on something flat instead of the feel of a piano. Then, memory took over and her hands remembered the dance. Years fell away as she was filled again with the joy of making music. She started with "Clair de lune," a gentle Debussy chosen to respect the frailty of her friend's condition.Upon playing the final chords, she looked up for her friend's reaction to see that Dana had covered her face with a pillow in an attempt to smother herself. "God, you're rusty. You used to be better than me. What have you been doing with those hands?" she complained."Raising kids; kneading dough; finding random women's' panties when I changed sheets on the bed," Karen said, ruefully."Should've jumped Dean while you had the chance;” Dana murmured.Karen bit her lips and closed her eyes. "Um; how; how is he?"Dana stared into Karen's eyes for a painfully long moment, then looked out the window, away from Karen. "Life; life wasn't kind to him. After I graduated, he moved back home to take care of Nana. He only came to the city to look after me, anyway. Living alone hardened him. I haven't seen him in years; not that I'd want to see what he's become. Sometimes you just need to let people go, Kare," she said, sighing sadly. "Anyway; I need a laugh. Show me how pathetic your Jerry Lee Lewis catalog is.""Yes, ma'am," Karen said, blinking back tears and starting into "Great Balls of Fire."The wind coming through the drivers' side window ruffled the inch-long cap of vivid red hair that had grown on Karen's head as she drove down the winding West Virginia roads that she hadn't seen in 30 years. The beauty of this place still softened and relaxed her as much as it had, oh so long ago. Despite Dana's warnings, Karen's heart demanded that she make this trip; and after all she had lost, she was determined to listen to her heart from now on, until she could no longer hear it.She frowned at her passenger and began coughing as a noxious odor swirled around, filling her SUV. She rolled her window down further in self-preservation. This was probably a bad idea; but after all these years of thinking things through and being sensible, she felt entitled to indulge in a few harebrained schemes."Country road; take me home; to the place; I belong; West Virginia; mountain mama; take me home; country road;” she sang, smiling as the wooded foothills rose up in the distance. The path became rough when she turned by the Stevens mailbox and began bouncing up through the woods toward the cozy home. Her passenger surveyed the woods around the vehicle with increasing excitement.Karen started doubting herself, though. It was ridiculous, the more she thought about it. All her emails had gone unanswered. The phone number she was given was out of service. Three decades had passed since she came here; why would he want to see a 50-something woman with an unflattering haircut and stretch marks just because he had fallen in love with the 20-something version of her? Would Dean even remember her at all? She ran through her plan again in her mind again. It sounded really stupid, now. At least it would let her make a quick exit if things didn't work out, though.She broke out in a cold sweat when the house came into view. It was just as she had remembered it, maintained well, but not changed. It was like a holy place, kept perfectly through the ages in reverence for what it represented.She pulled up to the house and parked. No one emerged, so she would have to go in. She would have to go knock on that door and see the unrecognition or even disappointment in his eyes. She needed to go tell him about his sister. Opening the door, she slid out and hopped to the ground and stretched her legs. Suddenly, a braying roar filled the air and a wall of fur launched itself from behind the house and came for her. "SIT!" Karen yelled. Her command, though impressive, appeared only to be a gentle suggestion to the monster that continued to charge her. "STAY!" Karen shouted. This recommendation also appeared to go unheeded."BUSTER, NO!" a voice from the porch yelled, and Karen couldn't help but stare at her first glimpse of Dean in decades. He looked wild. Wild hair, wild beard, a body that had to be formed by the wilderness, itself. Not a drop of civilization tainted the essence of this man; and it made her want to laugh and cry at the same time. Karen began walking toward him, completely forgetting about the fearsome beast avalanche coming to bury her. Dean jumped down from the porch and began running toward the flurry of fur and teeth that had bent its path upon Karen's destruction.A split second before Buster reached Karen, the passenger of her vehicle silently flew out, tackled him with a full-body slam and the two went rolling back from where Karen now stood next to Dean. The two tumbled, tearing up the grass and knocking over the woodpile in the commotion. Buster yelped loudly and jumped free of the massive shaggy-furred beast that was still intent upon teaching him some manners. "Judith, come!" Karen called, and with a final snarl at Buster, Judith returned to where Karen stood and sat by her side, still glaring to where Buster stood looking dumbfounded."Well, I'll be damned;” Dean murmured, looking at the still-cowed Buster in wonder."Girl dog privilege," Karen replied simply. "What is that thing, anyway?" she asked, nodding to where Buster now stood whining and trying to approach the growling Judith."Bernese Mountain Dog; Great Pyrenees; and probably a bit of German Shepherd;” Dean murmured, turning toward her. His eyes traveled over her slowly and boldly."Judith's Akita and Malamute; she was turned into the shelter because she always thinks she's right," Karen said. "That, and she farts something awful."

 Karen Saves The Universe: Part 3Karen Embarks on a cure campaign.Based on a post by LingeringAfterthought, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Karen sighed, "Might as well. Let's go kill the libido of an entire civilization, Holland."Holland took her arm and soon the cell where she was held disappeared and another space formed around them. Captain Hemsworth and several crew members from the ship stood nearby, as well as Ensign Holland who was still holding her arm, reassuringly. Looking around, Karen saw that they were in what appeared to be a sound-booth of sorts. One crewmember activated some equipment and moved one protruding tentacle closer to Karen's mouth and another toward Captain Hemsworth's."Are we ready, Ellis?" Captain Hemsworth asked, clearing his throat. Ellis nodded and stepped back from the tentacles. Hemsworth tapped the end of the tentacle and a booming noise reverberated around the room. He cleared his throat several more times and straightened his collar. "People of Priam! Your deliverance has come! You sent us forth among the stars to find the cure to the horrid addiction of filth that has infiltrated our minds and we have not failed you! We have dedicated our lives to this effort, foregone having families, and any comforts of home to bring you this salvation! Behold; The Karen!" he proclaimed, gesturing for Karen to speak."Um; hi?" Karen said, unsurely. Hemsworth glanced at Ellis who was reading some type of display. Ellis frowned and motioned for her to continue speaking. "Um; my name is Karen;""Hi Karen;” several crew members responded unanimously before Captain Hemsworth cut them off with a gesture."Um; I'm not quite sure what I'm supposed to say. I heard you're all having some troubles. I'm sorry. I know what that's like. I've had some troubles, too. I married the wrong person; someone who didn't really love me. I wasn't brave and I tried to avoid trouble too much. I had four kids, but they grew up seeing me treated badly, so they don't really see me as being worth much; if they don't need me to be a mom anymore, what good am I to them? I love them, but; I wish I had done more with my life. Now, I'm getting a divorce; and now that I'm in my 50's, I'm not young and beautiful anymore, so it's like I'm invisible to most people. My body hurts more than it used to; and I'm afraid most days. I don't know what's going to happen to me. Everything keeps changing and I don't know where I belong. I feel like I've failed all the time. But, they said that maybe I could help you, so; I hope I can help make things better for you. I'd like to see something good come out of all this," Karen said, wiping some tears off her cheeks. Holland stepped next to her and took her hand. She smiled and leaned her head on his shoulder."Ellis?" Hemsworth asked.Ellis looked up from the display, a disconcerted expression on his face. "I don't understand;” he murmured, leaning down and feverishly working on the equipment. "They're hearing it. I know they're hearing it;”"It's not working? She just spoke more than it took to knock out the entire bridge crew! What do you mean it's not working?" Hemsworth said, frustrated. Karen looked at Holland, who simply shrugged.Captain Hemsworth frowned with determination and motioned to Karen, "Speak again. Louder. Talk about the cobb salad! Men, brace yourselves!" he ordered."Cobb salad?" Karen repeated, surprised. "Oh, well, um; it's just yummy. It's got hard boiled eggs, tomatoes, bacon, and avocado on a bed of lettuce; chives and bleu cheese over the top is good, too. The nice thing is that all the ingredients are put into neat little rows across the lettuce, so you can choose exactly what you want in each bite! It's not just a big mess like other salads. You know, I could make you one ; do you guys have avocadoes?" she said enthusiastically, looking to Holland.Holland immediately began looking up something on his hand-held computer. "Av-o-ca-does; do they yield their young willingly, or do we need to;""What the hell is going on???" Captain Hemsworth yelled, grabbing Holland's ear and looking inside. "Holland! You're not wearing protection! Why aren't you unconscious on the floor?""Oh, um; they were kind of uncomfortable, and they made it hard to hear what she was remembering, and;""You Remembered With The Karen? What Is Wrong With You?" Hemsworth shouted, before calming himself. "Momoa, get some caffeline ready. I need to hear her again," he said, bracing himself as he pulled what looked like slugs out of his ears. "Speak again about the salad;”"Okay, uh; most like to eat it with a vinaigrette? I think that gets to be a bit too much if there's bleu cheese on top, though. Sometimes I'll get it with ranch or something creamy because then;""What the hell, Holland! What did you do to The Karen? I barely feel anything!" Hemsworth yelled, grabbing Holland by the uniform."Um; I don't know; we just talked and remembered; you know, she's really nice, if you get to;""Dammit, You've Broken The Karen, Holland! How Are We Supposed To;" Captain Hemsworth yelled until he was interrupted by a knock nearby.Lieutenant Ellis activated a control on his display and a hole formed in the wall of the room. An assembly of Priamites entered the room, as smoothly as if they were rolled in on a platform together. The crew of the Onan immediately fell prostrate on the floor before them. Karen, unwilling to lie face-down on a floor she hadn't cleaned herself, looked around uncomfortably and gave the assembly a small wave. One Priamite raised her hand to return the gesture but was quickly stopped by her neighbor."Welcome, crew of the Onan," one of the assembly said, followed by the rest of the assembly nodding agreeably. "We are most appreciative of all your; efforts. We realize that you have dedicated several of your lifetimes to freeing our civilization from the throes of pornographic addiction, and for your many sacrifices, we thank you," the speaker said, then glanced around uncomfortably at the others. "Most unexpectedly, ah; while the Eros Curse was most distressing to the initial generations, the subsequent generations acclimated to it rather quickly. Then, as fashions changed, the Eros Curse became more of a joke, really; dance mixes were made, memes;”"Excuse me?" Captain Hemsworth said, lifting his face from the floor."I mean, sure, the Eros Curse is still out there. It's just that it's just become something people live with. It doesn't take over our lives, but some indulge in it a little after the kids have gone to bed for the night. I mean, it's not really such a big deal. It adds a little spice to an otherwise boring life, you know?""Boring life?" Hemsworth repeated, rising to his feet. "Are you telling me that all of Priam just walks around, living life, thinking about; that?""Well, yes, but we are very grateful for all you and your crew have done for us. We express our thanks to all the crews of the ships we loaded up with uptight intellectuals that were determined to rid our civilization of; alternative thoughts. We have come here to present you and your crew with a commemorative plaque for all your;""Is this some kind of joke?" Hemsworth said, pacing around. "I've been trekking throughout the universe looking for a cure to your abhorrent lust-filled thoughts and now you just want to give me a plaque for a lifetime of sacrifice because you don't see a problem with your disgusting sticky existence?""Well, there's no need to kink-shame;” the assembly spokesperson muttered, "Honestly, you never wondered why they sent the most uptight assholes on the planet off on a vague 'mission' and never really asked for progress reports?""I don't believe this;” Hemsworth said, his eyes bulging, nostrils flaring. "We've sacrificed our lives for nothing???""Oh, I see where this is going;” Karen said to Holland, who seemed to be trying to assume a duck-and-cover position."How could you do this to us???" Hemsworth yelled."Use the diaphragm for projection, baby; you can do it;” Karen encouraged."I Want; To See; The Manager!" Captain Hemsworth yelled at the top of his lungs, causing a feedback loop to screech throughout the room. The last thing Karen saw before falling unconscious was the sight of every Priamite in the room projectile vomiting on each other. The stench was overwhelming.Karen's Humility.Karen lifted her face off the bathroom floor, overwhelmed by the stench. She brushed off a spare piece of toilet paper stuck to her face, as she tried to remember what had happened. Her lungs burned from what she slowly recognized as pepper spray. She gathered her purse and stumbled out of the stall and looked at herself in the mirror. Her eyes were red, and a bruise was swelling where her cheek hit the floor. She splashed some cold water on her face and wiped off the makeup that streaked in the process. This was Snookers; not Baker's Pie. She had just ripped a kid a new asshole for not having cobb salad on the menu. What was she doing with her life?Upon exiting the bathroom, she ran into Travis the Waiter, who looked like he had just splashed water on his face, too. Dread and unease filled his face upon seeing her before it was quickly masked into concern. "Oh, um; are you okay? Can I get you some ice for that?" he asked, looking at the bruise on her cheek."What? Oh, no, honey. I'm okay. I just fell," she said, before meeting his eyes and taking his hand in hers. "Travis, I'm so sorry about the way I treated you. That was awful, and I have no excuse. You didn't deserve that.""It's okay; it happens," Travis said, carefully."It shouldn't, though. I was wrong, and I'm sorry. Would you mind if I just gave you some cash to cover the meal and snuck out of here? God knows what that group of biddies will gossip about when I go out there like this," Karen said, gesturing to herself."Yeah, that should be no problem," Travis said, taking the money she offered. "Are you sure you're okay?"Karen nodded, "I'm fine. I've just got some things to do. You've got a sweet heart, honey. Keep listening to it."Karen swallowed nervously as she went up the walkway to the small suburban house. She hadn't called before coming. It was rude of her not to call ahead of time, but then again, she was pretty sure that her number had been blocked. She didn't know if her oldest son had gone "no contact" or just "low contact" with her, but she was pretty sure her daughter-in-law would threaten to call the police within five minutes of her ringing the doorbell. Nevertheless, when she got up to the door, Karen put her finger forward and rang the bell."What do you want, Karen?" Hailey's terse voice came through the doorbell."Oh; you got one of those camera doorbell things; that's nice;” she began, unsure of how to say what was in her heart without a face in front of her."What do you want?" Hailey repeated."Um; I wanted to talk with you;""The last time you wanted to 'talk' with me, you just wanted to see my kids while you criticized my inadequate housekeeping, my inept child-rearing, and my unattractive post-pregnancy body. So, forgive me if I'd prefer not to have a heart-to-heart, Karen," Hailey interrupted."You're right," Karen said, looking at the dark circle holding the doorbell's camera. "I did that. I did that. I have not been kind to you. When Cal Jr. brought you home, I was not welcoming. I should have been; because you deserved that. You deserved it because you made my son happy. You have made him happier than I've ever known him to be; and that's what I've always wanted for him. If you were just like me, if you did all the things that I obnoxiously told you to do; he wouldn't be half as happy as he is with you; just as you are. If for no other reason than my son's happiness, you have my gratitude. I'm sorry that I've wasted the chances you've given me to know you better. You're brave and confident and funny. Honestly, I think you're the person I wished I could have been at your age. I'm sorry for a lot of things but being wasteful; saying thoughtless things that hardened people's hearts; those are the things that I wish I could take back the most. So, um;” Karen said, checking her notes on her phone's notepad to make sure she got all the points she wanted, "that's pretty much it. Oh, and I put that chocolate mousse recipe you liked on this index card so you can make it, but feel free to call me if you can't read my writing; or if you, you know, ever need anything."Karen nodded at the doorbell and started back down the walkway toward her car, blinking back tears. She had wasted so much time, so many chances. She didn't know if there was a point in trying again now, but she had to. She wasn't getting any younger.As she reached the end of the walkway, she was nearly knocked over by two little bodies running into her and grabbing onto her legs. Tears fell freely down her cheeks as she bent down to pick up her grandchildren, kissing them until they tried to wiggle away. As they started simultaneously telling her everything they had been doing while she was away, Karen's eyes drifted up to the doorway where her pierced and tattooed daughter-in-law stood. "Thank you" Karen mouthed silently over her grandchildren's backs.Karen pushed open the doors of Forest Glenn Hospice Care, her bag stuffed with an array of items and went up to the front desk. "Karen Weaver. I'm here for Dana Stevens," she said.The new girl at the reception desk looked at Karen with quiet unease. "Um; Ms. Stevens has requested only visitors who have;" Karen smirked and lifted the wig off her head, revealing her clean-shaven head. "Oh! Great! Go right in," she said, relieved.The corridor of the hospice facility was peaceful and quiet; exactly the kind of thing the old Dana would hate. Entering her room, Karen looked for any signs that other visitors had been to see Dana but saw nothing. Dana was napping again, her face drawn and gaunt, but thankfully not in pain. Karen put down her bag in a nearby chair and took out a rolled-up electronic piano keyboard and unfurled it on a table next to the hospital bed. As she was on her hands and knees trying to find an outlet to use, she heard Dana clear her throat. "What the hell is that?" she asked, smirking as she nodded at the keyboard."Your afternoon's entertainment. I ordered it on Amazon; you should have seen the bitchy reviews. Reminded me of you. Mind you, I haven't played since Cal got rid of the piano when it didn't fit in the Brooklyn apartment, so you're in for a treat," Karen said, rubbing her hands together and moving her glasses on top of her head so she could see the keyboard controls."Calvin Carmichael in a Brooklyn apartment. My god. What was it that emptied the Carmichael family coffers after they stole you away from me, again?" Dana asked, her sunken eyes taking in every detail of Karen's face as she hovered over the keyboard."Bernie Madoff; cleaned 'em dry. His parents were ever so shocked when they had to sell their properties and move to Florida," Karen said. "They weren't poor; they had enough to retire, but; they were horridly middle class.""Karma's a bitch," Dana said, pushing back against her pillows to sit up more. "Kare; I'm so sorry I didn't talk with you when you came back to the apartment. I could have helped you; we both would have helped you."Karen's smile faded, remembering and wondering what might have been. Dana would have helped her, but she was certain Dana's help would be help to get an abortion; and then she would never have had the joy of knowing her grandchildren. Dean would have; well, it was impossible to know what he would have done, but he would have helped. "Well, consider this your punishment," Karen said, stretching her fingers. "Are you ready?""I'm on opiates, baby. Bring it on;” Dana said, a smile moving across her face.Karen's fingers moved across the keys, and at first, she was put off by the strangeness of the keys and the sensation of tapping on something flat instead of the feel of a piano. Then, memory took over and her hands remembered the dance. Years fell away as she was filled again with the joy of making music. She started with "Clair de lune," a gentle Debussy chosen to respect the frailty of her friend's condition.Upon playing the final chords, she looked up for her friend's reaction to see that Dana had covered her face with a pillow in an attempt to smother herself. "God, you're rusty. You used to be better than me. What have you been doing with those hands?" she complained."Raising kids; kneading dough; finding random women's' panties when I changed sheets on the bed," Karen said, ruefully."Should've jumped Dean while you had the chance;” Dana murmured.Karen bit her lips and closed her eyes. "Um; how; how is he?"Dana stared into Karen's eyes for a painfully long moment, then looked out the window, away from Karen. "Life; life wasn't kind to him. After I graduated, he moved back home to take care of Nana. He only came to the city to look after me, anyway. Living alone hardened him. I haven't seen him in years; not that I'd want to see what he's become. Sometimes you just need to let people go, Kare," she said, sighing sadly. "Anyway; I need a laugh. Show me how pathetic your Jerry Lee Lewis catalog is.""Yes, ma'am," Karen said, blinking back tears and starting into "Great Balls of Fire."The wind coming through the drivers' side window ruffled the inch-long cap of vivid red hair that had grown on Karen's head as she drove down the winding West Virginia roads that she hadn't seen in 30 years. The beauty of this place still softened and relaxed her as much as it had, oh so long ago. Despite Dana's warnings, Karen's heart demanded that she make this trip; and after all she had lost, she was determined to listen to her heart from now on, until she could no longer hear it.She frowned at her passenger and began coughing as a noxious odor swirled around, filling her SUV. She rolled her window down further in self-preservation. This was probably a bad idea; but after all these years of thinking things through and being sensible, she felt entitled to indulge in a few harebrained schemes."Country road; take me home; to the place; I belong; West Virginia; mountain mama; take me home; country road;” she sang, smiling as the wooded foothills rose up in the distance. The path became rough when she turned by the Stevens mailbox and began bouncing up through the woods toward the cozy home. Her passenger surveyed the woods around the vehicle with increasing excitement.Karen started doubting herself, though. It was ridiculous, the more she thought about it. All her emails had gone unanswered. The phone number she was given was out of service. Three decades had passed since she came here; why would he want to see a 50-something woman with an unflattering haircut and stretch marks just because he had fallen in love with the 20-something version of her? Would Dean even remember her at all? She ran through her plan again in her mind again. It sounded really stupid, now. At least it would let her make a quick exit if things didn't work out, though.She broke out in a cold sweat when the house came into view. It was just as she had remembered it, maintained well, but not changed. It was like a holy place, kept perfectly through the ages in reverence for what it represented.She pulled up to the house and parked. No one emerged, so she would have to go in. She would have to go knock on that door and see the unrecognition or even disappointment in his eyes. She needed to go tell him about his sister. Opening the door, she slid out and hopped to the ground and stretched her legs. Suddenly, a braying roar filled the air and a wall of fur launched itself from behind the house and came for her. "SIT!" Karen yelled. Her command, though impressive, appeared only to be a gentle suggestion to the monster that continued to charge her. "STAY!" Karen shouted. This recommendation also appeared to go unheeded."BUSTER, NO!" a voice from the porch yelled, and Karen couldn't help but stare at her first glimpse of Dean in decades. He looked wild. Wild hair, wild beard, a body that had to be formed by the wilderness, itself. Not a drop of civilization tainted the essence of this man; and it made her want to laugh and cry at the same time. Karen began walking toward him, completely forgetting about the fearsome beast avalanche coming to bury her. Dean jumped down from the porch and began running toward the flurry of fur and teeth that had bent its path upon Karen's destruction.A split second before Buster reached Karen, the passenger of her vehicle silently flew out, tackled him with a full-body slam and the two went rolling back from where Karen now stood next to Dean. The two tumbled, tearing up the grass and knocking over the woodpile in the commotion. Buster yelped loudly and jumped free of the massive shaggy-furred beast that was still intent upon teaching him some manners. "Judith, come!" Karen called, and with a final snarl at Buster, Judith returned to where Karen stood and sat by her side, still glaring to where Buster stood looking dumbfounded."Well, I'll be damned;” Dean murmured, looking at the still-cowed Buster in wonder."Girl dog privilege," Karen replied simply. "What is that thing, anyway?" she asked, nodding to where Buster now stood whining and trying to approach the growling Judith."Bernese Mountain Dog; Great Pyrenees; and probably a bit of German Shepherd;” Dean murmured, turning toward her. His eyes traveled over her slowly and boldly."Judith's Akita and Malamute; she was turned into the shelter because she always thinks she's right," Karen said. "That, and she farts something awful."

Skip Spence's life started in Windsor, but he became a poster boy for the 1960s, playing with groups like Jefferson Airplane and Moby Grape. His time in the spotlight lasted only three years, but he left a lasting impression on rock and roll. Cam Cobb is a Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor and a rock journalist. Cobb's writing has appeared in such magazines as Record Collector, Shindig!, and Ugly Things. His liner notes for Skip Spence's single, "Rock & Roll Band," accompanied the release in 2019. Cobb co-directed Buskin' in the Subway for the Windsor International Film Festival, and he coproduced O(A)R, a short documentary on Skip Spence. His books include What's Big And Purple And Lives In The Ocean?: The Moby Grape Story, and Weighted Down: The Complicated Life of Skip Spence.New Rolling Stone Record Guide 2nd ed. 1983. Is cited. More information on the book here. 

 Karen Saves The Universe: Part 1Desperate aliens kidnap a Karen to save their world!Based on a post by LingeringAfterthought, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.On the starship Onan, the Priamites dubiously watched the screen display the creature. Dr. Fehr's algorithm had brought them trekking across the galaxy to a smallish, blue planet around an unimpressive star. While there was no denying the power emitted by the angry, festering organic matter before them, the thought of containing it and bringing it back to Priam was daunting. Still, the fate of their world hung upon the success of their mission."Do we have; uh; audio yet, Lieutenant Cavill?" Captain Hemsworth said, pausing briefly to joylessly ejaculate into his cumsuit, which quickly reclaimed the essence he emitted and channeled it into one of the suit's containment pouches to be resorbed as nourishment.Ever since the people of Eros had unleashed their horrific weapon on them, the Priamites orgasmed almost constantly. The Eros Curse, which seemed like a gift at first, became a tool of enslavement and oppression as the great Priam civilization devolved into listless people who passed the time sitting and staring at nothing in particular. Even special holidays were simply spent gathered in each other's' houses, grunting intermittently. The children of Priam, spared by the curse of Eros by living in growth pods, were never exposed to the disease or its effects until the seemingly arbitrary age of 18, so at least there was no trouble with the censors. The demands of orgasming so frequently took its toll on the Priamite's bodies. Dehydration, muscle spasms, and fatigue were common. The effects on the mind were worse. It wasn't until the invention of the cumsuit, which not only reclaimed the fluid loss and prevented dehydration, but also reduced arousing sensations until the wearer was nearly numb, that it was possible for them to journey out into the stars in search of a cure.Guided by the ancient journals of the revered Dr. Fehr, the Priamites had come to a small planet where it was foretold that there was a force of great and terrible power. It was hoped that this force could be used to break free of the cruel Eros Curse, but time was running out. Even wearing the cumsuits, the crew of the Onan, who were the most stoic, intellectual and sexless men of Priam, felt themselves progressively weakening to the Curse. It was only a matter of time until they lost all sense of duty and simply went adrift through the universe."No audio yet, Captain. The resonant frequency is so shrill that if we don't modulate the pitch; uh;” Lieutenant Cavill replied, closing his eyes and shaking as he orgasmed, then collapsed and stared blankly at the control panels as he recovered.Another crewman took over at the panel, "Captain, I can give you audio, but only for a short time. Even on their planet, they; they; oh; oh fuck;” the replacement said, stiffening as he spurted inside his suit, then shook his head to clear it and looked to their leader for orders. Captain Hemsworth braced himself in his chair and nodded for him to activate audio.A horrendous braying screech filled the bridge, “ No Idea Why You People Can't Even Take An Order Right! I Ordered The Cobb Salad With Extra Avocado! I Don't Care If It's Not On There Or Not! Fix The Damn Menu! I Have Been Coming Here For Over 15 Years And I Know For A Fact That You People Had Cobb Salad On There Two Years Ago When You Were Called Baker's Pie;"Another voice interjected, soft and conciliatory, "Oh, yes, ma'am; I see the confusion. The Baker's Pie that was here went out of business. This restaurant is Snooker's, now, so we don't have the same menu, but our club salad is very similar to;""Are You Actually Interrupting Me? Get. Me. A. Cobb. Salad. Extra Avocado! Do You Understand? Extra Avocado! Mucho Amortado! Comprendo Estupido?"Even in that short interlude, most of the Onan's bridge crew had begun bleeding from their ears and collapsing onto the deck. Captain Hemsworth, a man of rare tolerance and stamina, struggled past their unconscious bodies to the control panel and lowered the volume until it was barely audible. "Computer, disburse caffeline into bridge life support systems, 15 parts per million," he mumbled, leaning on the control panel for support as the strong stimulant hissed into the room. He didn't like to use the drug, because the heightened energy it gave often led to periods of prolonged involuntary masturbation, but he couldn't afford to waste time for the crewmen to awaken naturally. Not when conditions were so dire on Priam.Lieutenant Cavill groaned and rose weakly, climbing back into his console chair and checking the readings. "What happened, Captain? Our scans showed a primitive civilization on the planet without any meaningful defenses. What was that? Some kind of weapon?" he asked.Captain Hemsworth did a double-take at the crewman in wonder, but he said nothing. All around him, he watched the rest of the crew slowly getting to their feet and going back to their positions. All the men were alert, aware, and focused on their duties. Several of them were talking to each other; in full uninterrupted sentences. No one drooled, no one's eyes rolled back; not one of them stared off into space, as if dully re-living the curse that had infected their brains. He, himself, had not even felt the urge to sexually relieve himself once, even with the high levels of caffeline in the air. Indeed, he had not felt anything below the waist; not since he heard that voice. He doubted whether he would have the urge to orgasm ever again. They had finally done it."That was no weapon, Cavill; it is what we came here to find. It's the cure that Dr. Fehr told us was here all along. Contact High Command and tell them; tell them we found it. Tell them we have found; The Karen.The man-eating woman.After straightening out the incompetent waiter on her order, Karen Carmichael excused herself from her prayer group's table and walked to the restrooms, incensed. What kind of man actually cries when taking an order for a salad? Probably gay; or whatever kids were calling themselves these days. Was there such a thing as "gay" anymore, when people "identified" themselves as whatever the hell occurred to them? What was the point of picking a sexuality when people didn't even have a species anymore?Of course, Travis the Waiter had to play the victim about it, too, making the entire restaurant gawk over at their table like they were monsters. He probably knew they were a nice church group and went out of his way to make trouble. Sure, they all scream for "tolerance," but their types couldn't wait to attack nice people of faith like her who showed the world what it was to be decent and pure of heart. Well, he could just kiss his tip money goodbye! Tipping had gotten ridiculous anyway; a generation of whiny babies feeling entitled to extra money just for doing their jobs. ‘If ‘; they did their jobs. She couldn't even get a salad; and, by God, if the Manager didn't make things right, her Yelp review on this place would burn a hole through people's screens!Karen pushed on the door to the restroom tightly clutching her can of pepper spray, because sexual predators were always trying to rape women like her in public restrooms, and she nearly screamed when the door opened. Wet paper towels were everywhere. The garbage bin was overflowing, and some slob had splashed water all over the sink area! Now, she'd have to make the Manager take care of this, too! More drama, when she just wanted to have a nice lunch with her friends. And, of course, the Manager would just try to ‘handle ‘; her; as if she was some unreasonable bitch just for wanting to use a facility that wasn't absolutely disgusting! Then looking near her, but not at her, the Manager would apologize in that fake-nice voice and offer to comp her meal; offering her even more of what was bad in the first place. Managers and their fake apologies. They weren't sorry. The soulless jerks never meant it. They just wanted her to go away; acting like she was a scamming thief instead of someone who just wanted to be treated decently.She settled on the toilet and tried to calm herself. Lately, half the time she wanted to cry, or scream, or tear out her hair; but it wouldn't matter. Nothing would change. Everything changed around her, though. Menus; her children; hairstyles; prices; everything changed. It felt like everything had just left her behind. She looked everywhere for the things she used to love, but she couldn't find them anymore; and if she did find them, they weren't the same as they once were. Nothing made her feel her joy like she used to. That was it. Maybe she was done; that her turn at having any real joy was over. Now, the only time anyone tried to make her happy, or even looked at her, was when she screamed at them.Karen opened her eyes to a rattling sound at the door of her long, handicapped-bathroom stall. "Occupied!" she called out. To her dismay, the dial holding the sliding bolt turned all by itself and the door unlocked. "Hey! Get out!" she yelled, grabbing her pepper spray and holding it in front of her while she tried to stand and pull up her yoga pants."Nice human; good human;” a vaguely disembodied male voice said as a dark, hooded figure in a bizarre form-fitting spacesuit stepped into her stall holding what looked like a staff with a flexible loop affixed to the end of it. It slowly stepped toward her, as cautiously as one might approach a spooked animal. "Human want a nice piece of kale? Yes you do! Yes you do! Who's a good human?" it asked, holding out a curly dark green leaf to her and shaking it temptingly."What the hell?" she yelled, fumbling with the pepper spray can and trying to figure out how to make it work, just as the loop at the end of the staff went down over her head and around her neck, cinching tight.Karen choked, clutching at the loop with one hand, trying to loosen it so she could breathe, and with the other she emptied the can of pepper spray into the hooded face of her attacker. She struggled wildly, but the staff with the loop effectively controlled her and prevented her from landing any punches or kicks on her attacker. As darkness started creeping in on her vision, the last thing she saw was the figure deeply inhale the cloud of pepper spray and hold its breath, then say in a choked voice, "Ready for transport, sir; and man, they've got some good shit down here;”The forgotten leaf of kale fell down next to where Karen's cheek was pressed against the filthy bathroom floor, and with what she feared was her dying breath she choked out, "I want; to see; the; Manager;”Karen's ne victim."I used kale, Sir. Worked like a charm. It's one of the most nutritionally dense materials on the planet, so naturally, it was irresistible," a larger Priamite said to Captain Hemsworth, as he stripped out of his protective suit in a small enclave, bathed in an undulating light.Captain Hemsworth nodded. "Good work, Commander Momoa. Decontaminate for a full four cycles and I want protective measures in place for all personnel. God knows what this thing is capable of when it wakes."Karen heard garbled voices nearby, but kept her eyes closed and tried to steady her breathing. What had happened? The air smelled odd; almost crackling with ozone and energy, like a storm coming. The ambient sounds of the room told her she was not in Snookers anymore. Probably human traffickers. She saw a whole show about it. The bastards kidnapped her and were going to sell her into sexual slavery; except that she wasn't a teenager. She was 51 years old. Nobody would pay for sex with her, much less risk a felony conviction for it. Any ransom demands sent to her husband were going to have disappointing results, as well. So, what was going on? Why was she here? The kids were in college and wouldn't even notice she was gone until Christmas came. Her friends; her passive-aggressive competitors, if she was being honest; they'd just assume she left in a huff and stiffed them on the lunch check. The cold, hard truth was: nobody cared about her anymore and she knew it. That meant, if she was going to get out of this, she would have to do it herself. Her cheek hurt where it had hit that disgusting bathroom floor and she reached her hand up to touch it. The voices yelped in alarm and Karen opened her eyes to see two figures backing away from the enclosure she was imprisoned in."Who the hell are you, and what have you done with my purse?" she yelled, pushing herself to her feet. She walked toward them, crossing her arms and glaring. "I want whoever is in charge over here right now! I mean it!" she yelled, pointing as she walked toward them. One of the figures screamed, clutched at his ears and doubled over, staggering around the room dramatically. The other, larger one she recognized from the restaurant bathroom was in some tanning-booth-looking-thing, half naked and gorgeous in a likely-sexual-predator kind of way. Rather than flailing around the room, he seemed to have gone into a catatonic trance. God, people were useless. "You! Himbo!" she shouted, pointing at him. "Where is my purse? Did you even think to get it when you kidnapped me, or am I going to miss my Ozempic shot? I hope to God you assholes have good lawyers!"The beefy kidnapper in the tanning booth wobbled, then vomited loudly. Karen snorted as he slid down to the floor, unconscious. Pathetic. The smaller figure dove toward a panel on the wall next to her enclosure and pressed a few buttons and she heard the ambient noise of her room change, like it was encased, somehow."I've muted it. It's become even stronger than before;” Captain Hemsworth gasped, helping Commander Momoa to his feet again."How are we going to get it back to Priam? We could choke it out again every time it awakens; give the privilege out as a reward to the crew?" Commander Momoa suggested eagerly."No," Captain Hemsworth said, coming closer to the force field separating him from the angry Karen still yelling and pointing from inside the enclosure. "The cumulative effects of throttling it constantly might affect its functioning. We need The Karen at full power if we are to rescue Priam. We need to keep it conscious. We must feed it, provide it breathing gasses, and keep it clean; it appears to be constantly decaying. That reminds me ; cleaning duty goes to Ensign Holland. He's still on my shit list after the incident with the Zendayans.""Aye, sir."Captain Hemsworth cleared his throat and pressed another button on the side panel. "Hail Karen, bringer of blessed flaccidity, destroyer of abhorrent lust, and banisher of all erotic thought. We are men of the planet Priam. We mean you no harm. We come to you seeking aid, and we come in peace. Actually, until we found you, we would come almost constantly. It was disgusting. Everything was sticky. You see, our enemies from Eros sent us the most perfect pornographic images disguised in an innocent-looking email attachment. Once they were seen, they could not be unseen. They were burned into our brains, cursing us with perpetual arousal. The first wave of Priamites were taken by surprise once they activated the link. The next wave fell victim when the first wave posted the link on their social media because it was just so unbelievably; anyway, after the rest of our population fell out of curiosity or boredom, our civilization was nearly destroyed. We have been searching the stars for a cure, but to no avail. Then, just as all hope seemed lost, we found you; we heard your voice; and our loins finally withered. You are now a guest on my ship, The Onan, en route to my homeworld Priam. There, we will deliver your noxious, strident sounds to everyone, freeing them from their intransigent arousal. Then, after we are assured that all have been cured, we shall return you to your home."At this, Karen made an unpleasant face and began breathing on the clear wall of her enclosure, fogging it. Then, she quickly wrote a short message. "What does it mean?" Commander Momoa said, squinting at the squiggling lines she had made.At this, the computer made a chirp and began speaking, "The message, from the American dialect of the language English translates to: Why didn't you just make a recording?"Captain Hemsworth's shoulders slumped and he closed his eyes with a sigh. Commander Momoa's eyes went wide and he clapped his hand over his face in exasperation. "Fuck;” Momoa said in realization. "A recording;”"Dammit. We didn't have to take her at all, did we?" Captain Hemsworth groaned.Karen glared at them and wrote another word on the wall. As certain as Captain Hemsworth was that he did not need or want the translation, the computer was already on the job. "'Dumbasses,'" the computer cheerfully intoned, "a colloquial phrase, plural of the insult 'dumbass,' meaning 'a foolish or stupid person.'""End translation. Yes, Karen, if we had thought to record your voice instead of kidnapping you, this might have been a much shorter story, and considerably less inconvenient, but as it is, we are closer to Priam than Earth at this point, and our course is set. We will bring you to Priam and then return you home. Perhaps kidnapping you was not the most well-considered solution, but I defy you to think clearly after constantly watching porn for eons and let me know if you do any better."Karen's new calling.Great; as if getting old wasn't insult enough, I've actually become an intergalactic sexual repellent, Karen thought to herself as she paced around her cell. A lifetime of trying to do things right, and this is what it gets me. She wasn't so surprised that there were aliens in the universe, or that they had somehow weaponized porn, but that with all their advancements they were still so stupid!Sighing, she closed her eyes and listened to the ambient sounds of her cell. Life had been so noisy, the last 30 years. Everyone needing her, pulling on her for one thing or another. No peace. Lately though, with the kids gone and Cal; otherwise occupied; life had gone silent. The silence that she had wished for held no peace when it finally came. It just reverberated with the memory of things that had left her behind, making her anxious to fill the emptiness with noise. Nothing came to lure her mind away from the silence, no pleasurable temptations; her duties were done and it felt wrong to do, or even think about, anything else. My god, she had been kidnapped, was flying through the galaxy, and was surrounded by beefcake aliens and she was still thinking about that stupid loose tile in the master bathroom; she needed to get it fixed before the house was sold.A slight sound outside her cell drew her attention. "Who's there?" Karen asked, softly, opening her eyes.A wide-eyed figure peered around the edge of her cell, moving with cautious curiosity. It seemed younger than the other ones. It moved with a sense of barely-restrained eagerness, adorable and earnest. It also held a curved sort of wand in its hand."Honey, if you're here to anally probe me, I'll pass. I already had a colonoscopy this year, I'll have them send you the records;” she murmured, not expecting an answer.After a pause as the figure listened to the translation, its large eyes got even wider. "Is that how you poop?" he asked."What?" she asked, looking more closely at the young alien."I'm supposed to clean your cell when you poop; but you haven't pooped yet; wait, do colonoscopies make you poop?" it asked, scandalized.Karen closed her eyes and shook her head, "No. Colonoscopies put a small camera up your ass so that we can pay a doctor to do what we were afraid aliens like you would do to us if we got drunk in cornfields too much. They don't make us poop. In fact; well, never mind;” she trailed off, embarrassed.She still had vivid memories of her first colonoscopy earlier in the year, drinking gallons of preparatory laxatives, and the resulting quality time with her phone on the toilet. It was an odd experience; not awful, but not one that she could talk to anyone about. Her friends only talked about their kids and their successes, or whose husband cheated on them with some young thing, viciously salivating over their friends' misery with barely concealed glee. Forget about talking through her fears about it with Cal; that wasn't something he was interested in. Not anymore.After the procedure, she had been scared and disoriented from the sedation. For whatever reason, Cal hadn't shown up to give her a ride home. The stupid clinic wouldn't let her leave until someone could drive her home and take care of her. She just sat there getting more and more anxious. Eventually, she called an Uber and begged Xabiib the driver to pretend to be her neighbor; or just someone who cared about her. She spent the ride home trying to say his name correctly while he chuckled and repeated it for her. It was so horrifyingly embarrassing. It's one thing to have no one care about you, but another thing to have the whole world know about it when you were helpless and confused.Tears had rolled down her cheeks and she absently wiped them off with her hand. The young alien sat up and craned his head to look at the liquid on her hand. Karen snorted, "At ease, Holland. It's not poop. You're not getting anything out of me unless you have some heavy-duty magnesium supplements or yogurt."Holland's eyes went wide, "Are humans telepathic???" he gasped. "How did you know my name? Wow, that's so cool! Do it again! What am I thinking about now?"Karen suppressed a smile. Closing her eyes, she pressed her fingers to her temples and swayed from side to side, mysteriously. "I see something; something in the mist; something about; could it be; no, it makes no sense. Is it; a Zen; Zendayan? Does that make any sense to you?" she asked.Holland dropped his curved instrument in shock. "Yes! Yes! We just met them! We negotiated with them for supplies! I was there to carry stuff and; and;” he paused, shrinking in on himself a bit. "They are so beautiful. The Zendayans? So beautiful; and super nice; and just; like wow; I was supposed to just stand there until they were done with the talking and bowing and stuff, but they were just like so beautiful.""Well, what happened?" Karen asked."Captain introduced me and I bowed to them. I was feeling dizzy because, you know, their beautifulness just keeps radiating off them. Then; then; the most beautiful of them; she smiled." Holland stared at nothing, immersed in the memory, then wobbled, tipped over, and lay on the floor staring at the ceiling.Karen bit her lips in amusement. "I see. What did you do then?""I; I; I started talking and then I just couldn't stop because I was just trying to say how beautiful she was and how it just made my mind explode when she smiled and then I might have peed on the floor.""Oh dear," Karen said, cringing in sympathy. "We don't always put forward the face we want to when we are in our feelings, do we?" she said, quietly."Yeah; I've been cleaning poop ever since;” Holland sighed. After a while he sat back up, picked up the curved instrument and began twirling it in his hands. "So, like; what about you? Have you always made horrible noises?" he asked.Karen huffed, but then she saw the oblivious earnestness in Holland's face and sighed. "No; I wasn't always; like this. In fact, until about 30 years ago, I made beautiful noises. I was a pianist," she said."But, wait, they said you were a female;” Holland said, confused."Pee, an, ist," Karen repeated slowly. "I played the piano. It's an instrument; I was a musician. I was a student at Juilliard. It's a school on Earth; it was like a dream to even get in. I was on a scholarship, living in this shoddy apartment with my roommate Dana;” she trailed off, thinking about those days when everything seemed possible."Wait! Are you remembering?" Holland asked, breaking her reverie. "Can I remember it, too? Nobody wants to remember with me ever since the Zendayans, so I'm just left with my own memories and it gets so boring.""What are you talking about?""Well, it's kinda like; um; let me just show you. Computer, scan The Karen and project her memories," Holland ordered. A humming noise filled the room and a beam of light shot out of the wall and passed over her several times. Suddenly, her cell transformed into her shoddy apartment in Newark, New Jersey."Oh my gosh; it's just like it," Karen gasped looking around."Humans dream of getting into this?" Holland said, scrutinizing a cockroach scurrying along the floor."No, silly. This was our apartment across the river. We lived here when we weren't at school. Dana and I moved off campus in our second year. We took jobs on the side through an agency. That was when;” she sat down and a phone in the apartment's bedroom began ringing.A long, pale arm reached out of a pile of blankets on the bed and grabbed the phone. "Hullo?" Dana mumbled. A voice on the phone sounded irate. "Yeah, I'm almost there," she said and hung up.

 Karen Saves The Universe: Part 1Desperate aliens kidnap a Karen to save their world!Based on a post by LingeringAfterthought, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.On the starship Onan, the Priamites dubiously watched the screen display the creature. Dr. Fehr's algorithm had brought them trekking across the galaxy to a smallish, blue planet around an unimpressive star. While there was no denying the power emitted by the angry, festering organic matter before them, the thought of containing it and bringing it back to Priam was daunting. Still, the fate of their world hung upon the success of their mission."Do we have; uh; audio yet, Lieutenant Cavill?" Captain Hemsworth said, pausing briefly to joylessly ejaculate into his cumsuit, which quickly reclaimed the essence he emitted and channeled it into one of the suit's containment pouches to be resorbed as nourishment.Ever since the people of Eros had unleashed their horrific weapon on them, the Priamites orgasmed almost constantly. The Eros Curse, which seemed like a gift at first, became a tool of enslavement and oppression as the great Priam civilization devolved into listless people who passed the time sitting and staring at nothing in particular. Even special holidays were simply spent gathered in each other's' houses, grunting intermittently. The children of Priam, spared by the curse of Eros by living in growth pods, were never exposed to the disease or its effects until the seemingly arbitrary age of 18, so at least there was no trouble with the censors. The demands of orgasming so frequently took its toll on the Priamite's bodies. Dehydration, muscle spasms, and fatigue were common. The effects on the mind were worse. It wasn't until the invention of the cumsuit, which not only reclaimed the fluid loss and prevented dehydration, but also reduced arousing sensations until the wearer was nearly numb, that it was possible for them to journey out into the stars in search of a cure.Guided by the ancient journals of the revered Dr. Fehr, the Priamites had come to a small planet where it was foretold that there was a force of great and terrible power. It was hoped that this force could be used to break free of the cruel Eros Curse, but time was running out. Even wearing the cumsuits, the crew of the Onan, who were the most stoic, intellectual and sexless men of Priam, felt themselves progressively weakening to the Curse. It was only a matter of time until they lost all sense of duty and simply went adrift through the universe."No audio yet, Captain. The resonant frequency is so shrill that if we don't modulate the pitch; uh;” Lieutenant Cavill replied, closing his eyes and shaking as he orgasmed, then collapsed and stared blankly at the control panels as he recovered.Another crewman took over at the panel, "Captain, I can give you audio, but only for a short time. Even on their planet, they; they; oh; oh fuck;” the replacement said, stiffening as he spurted inside his suit, then shook his head to clear it and looked to their leader for orders. Captain Hemsworth braced himself in his chair and nodded for him to activate audio.A horrendous braying screech filled the bridge, “ No Idea Why You People Can't Even Take An Order Right! I Ordered The Cobb Salad With Extra Avocado! I Don't Care If It's Not On There Or Not! Fix The Damn Menu! I Have Been Coming Here For Over 15 Years And I Know For A Fact That You People Had Cobb Salad On There Two Years Ago When You Were Called Baker's Pie;"Another voice interjected, soft and conciliatory, "Oh, yes, ma'am; I see the confusion. The Baker's Pie that was here went out of business. This restaurant is Snooker's, now, so we don't have the same menu, but our club salad is very similar to;""Are You Actually Interrupting Me? Get. Me. A. Cobb. Salad. Extra Avocado! Do You Understand? Extra Avocado! Mucho Amortado! Comprendo Estupido?"Even in that short interlude, most of the Onan's bridge crew had begun bleeding from their ears and collapsing onto the deck. Captain Hemsworth, a man of rare tolerance and stamina, struggled past their unconscious bodies to the control panel and lowered the volume until it was barely audible. "Computer, disburse caffeline into bridge life support systems, 15 parts per million," he mumbled, leaning on the control panel for support as the strong stimulant hissed into the room. He didn't like to use the drug, because the heightened energy it gave often led to periods of prolonged involuntary masturbation, but he couldn't afford to waste time for the crewmen to awaken naturally. Not when conditions were so dire on Priam.Lieutenant Cavill groaned and rose weakly, climbing back into his console chair and checking the readings. "What happened, Captain? Our scans showed a primitive civilization on the planet without any meaningful defenses. What was that? Some kind of weapon?" he asked.Captain Hemsworth did a double-take at the crewman in wonder, but he said nothing. All around him, he watched the rest of the crew slowly getting to their feet and going back to their positions. All the men were alert, aware, and focused on their duties. Several of them were talking to each other; in full uninterrupted sentences. No one drooled, no one's eyes rolled back; not one of them stared off into space, as if dully re-living the curse that had infected their brains. He, himself, had not even felt the urge to sexually relieve himself once, even with the high levels of caffeline in the air. Indeed, he had not felt anything below the waist; not since he heard that voice. He doubted whether he would have the urge to orgasm ever again. They had finally done it."That was no weapon, Cavill; it is what we came here to find. It's the cure that Dr. Fehr told us was here all along. Contact High Command and tell them; tell them we found it. Tell them we have found; The Karen.The man-eating woman.After straightening out the incompetent waiter on her order, Karen Carmichael excused herself from her prayer group's table and walked to the restrooms, incensed. What kind of man actually cries when taking an order for a salad? Probably gay; or whatever kids were calling themselves these days. Was there such a thing as "gay" anymore, when people "identified" themselves as whatever the hell occurred to them? What was the point of picking a sexuality when people didn't even have a species anymore?Of course, Travis the Waiter had to play the victim about it, too, making the entire restaurant gawk over at their table like they were monsters. He probably knew they were a nice church group and went out of his way to make trouble. Sure, they all scream for "tolerance," but their types couldn't wait to attack nice people of faith like her who showed the world what it was to be decent and pure of heart. Well, he could just kiss his tip money goodbye! Tipping had gotten ridiculous anyway; a generation of whiny babies feeling entitled to extra money just for doing their jobs. ‘If ‘; they did their jobs. She couldn't even get a salad; and, by God, if the Manager didn't make things right, her Yelp review on this place would burn a hole through people's screens!Karen pushed on the door to the restroom tightly clutching her can of pepper spray, because sexual predators were always trying to rape women like her in public restrooms, and she nearly screamed when the door opened. Wet paper towels were everywhere. The garbage bin was overflowing, and some slob had splashed water all over the sink area! Now, she'd have to make the Manager take care of this, too! More drama, when she just wanted to have a nice lunch with her friends. And, of course, the Manager would just try to ‘handle ‘; her; as if she was some unreasonable bitch just for wanting to use a facility that wasn't absolutely disgusting! Then looking near her, but not at her, the Manager would apologize in that fake-nice voice and offer to comp her meal; offering her even more of what was bad in the first place. Managers and their fake apologies. They weren't sorry. The soulless jerks never meant it. They just wanted her to go away; acting like she was a scamming thief instead of someone who just wanted to be treated decently.She settled on the toilet and tried to calm herself. Lately, half the time she wanted to cry, or scream, or tear out her hair; but it wouldn't matter. Nothing would change. Everything changed around her, though. Menus; her children; hairstyles; prices; everything changed. It felt like everything had just left her behind. She looked everywhere for the things she used to love, but she couldn't find them anymore; and if she did find them, they weren't the same as they once were. Nothing made her feel her joy like she used to. That was it. Maybe she was done; that her turn at having any real joy was over. Now, the only time anyone tried to make her happy, or even looked at her, was when she screamed at them.Karen opened her eyes to a rattling sound at the door of her long, handicapped-bathroom stall. "Occupied!" she called out. To her dismay, the dial holding the sliding bolt turned all by itself and the door unlocked. "Hey! Get out!" she yelled, grabbing her pepper spray and holding it in front of her while she tried to stand and pull up her yoga pants."Nice human; good human;” a vaguely disembodied male voice said as a dark, hooded figure in a bizarre form-fitting spacesuit stepped into her stall holding what looked like a staff with a flexible loop affixed to the end of it. It slowly stepped toward her, as cautiously as one might approach a spooked animal. "Human want a nice piece of kale? Yes you do! Yes you do! Who's a good human?" it asked, holding out a curly dark green leaf to her and shaking it temptingly."What the hell?" she yelled, fumbling with the pepper spray can and trying to figure out how to make it work, just as the loop at the end of the staff went down over her head and around her neck, cinching tight.Karen choked, clutching at the loop with one hand, trying to loosen it so she could breathe, and with the other she emptied the can of pepper spray into the hooded face of her attacker. She struggled wildly, but the staff with the loop effectively controlled her and prevented her from landing any punches or kicks on her attacker. As darkness started creeping in on her vision, the last thing she saw was the figure deeply inhale the cloud of pepper spray and hold its breath, then say in a choked voice, "Ready for transport, sir; and man, they've got some good shit down here;”The forgotten leaf of kale fell down next to where Karen's cheek was pressed against the filthy bathroom floor, and with what she feared was her dying breath she choked out, "I want; to see; the; Manager;”Karen's ne victim."I used kale, Sir. Worked like a charm. It's one of the most nutritionally dense materials on the planet, so naturally, it was irresistible," a larger Priamite said to Captain Hemsworth, as he stripped out of his protective suit in a small enclave, bathed in an undulating light.Captain Hemsworth nodded. "Good work, Commander Momoa. Decontaminate for a full four cycles and I want protective measures in place for all personnel. God knows what this thing is capable of when it wakes."Karen heard garbled voices nearby, but kept her eyes closed and tried to steady her breathing. What had happened? The air smelled odd; almost crackling with ozone and energy, like a storm coming. The ambient sounds of the room told her she was not in Snookers anymore. Probably human traffickers. She saw a whole show about it. The bastards kidnapped her and were going to sell her into sexual slavery; except that she wasn't a teenager. She was 51 years old. Nobody would pay for sex with her, much less risk a felony conviction for it. Any ransom demands sent to her husband were going to have disappointing results, as well. So, what was going on? Why was she here? The kids were in college and wouldn't even notice she was gone until Christmas came. Her friends; her passive-aggressive competitors, if she was being honest; they'd just assume she left in a huff and stiffed them on the lunch check. The cold, hard truth was: nobody cared about her anymore and she knew it. That meant, if she was going to get out of this, she would have to do it herself. Her cheek hurt where it had hit that disgusting bathroom floor and she reached her hand up to touch it. The voices yelped in alarm and Karen opened her eyes to see two figures backing away from the enclosure she was imprisoned in."Who the hell are you, and what have you done with my purse?" she yelled, pushing herself to her feet. She walked toward them, crossing her arms and glaring. "I want whoever is in charge over here right now! I mean it!" she yelled, pointing as she walked toward them. One of the figures screamed, clutched at his ears and doubled over, staggering around the room dramatically. The other, larger one she recognized from the restaurant bathroom was in some tanning-booth-looking-thing, half naked and gorgeous in a likely-sexual-predator kind of way. Rather than flailing around the room, he seemed to have gone into a catatonic trance. God, people were useless. "You! Himbo!" she shouted, pointing at him. "Where is my purse? Did you even think to get it when you kidnapped me, or am I going to miss my Ozempic shot? I hope to God you assholes have good lawyers!"The beefy kidnapper in the tanning booth wobbled, then vomited loudly. Karen snorted as he slid down to the floor, unconscious. Pathetic. The smaller figure dove toward a panel on the wall next to her enclosure and pressed a few buttons and she heard the ambient noise of her room change, like it was encased, somehow."I've muted it. It's become even stronger than before;” Captain Hemsworth gasped, helping Commander Momoa to his feet again."How are we going to get it back to Priam? We could choke it out again every time it awakens; give the privilege out as a reward to the crew?" Commander Momoa suggested eagerly."No," Captain Hemsworth said, coming closer to the force field separating him from the angry Karen still yelling and pointing from inside the enclosure. "The cumulative effects of throttling it constantly might affect its functioning. We need The Karen at full power if we are to rescue Priam. We need to keep it conscious. We must feed it, provide it breathing gasses, and keep it clean; it appears to be constantly decaying. That reminds me ; cleaning duty goes to Ensign Holland. He's still on my shit list after the incident with the Zendayans.""Aye, sir."Captain Hemsworth cleared his throat and pressed another button on the side panel. "Hail Karen, bringer of blessed flaccidity, destroyer of abhorrent lust, and banisher of all erotic thought. We are men of the planet Priam. We mean you no harm. We come to you seeking aid, and we come in peace. Actually, until we found you, we would come almost constantly. It was disgusting. Everything was sticky. You see, our enemies from Eros sent us the most perfect pornographic images disguised in an innocent-looking email attachment. Once they were seen, they could not be unseen. They were burned into our brains, cursing us with perpetual arousal. The first wave of Priamites were taken by surprise once they activated the link. The next wave fell victim when the first wave posted the link on their social media because it was just so unbelievably; anyway, after the rest of our population fell out of curiosity or boredom, our civilization was nearly destroyed. We have been searching the stars for a cure, but to no avail. Then, just as all hope seemed lost, we found you; we heard your voice; and our loins finally withered. You are now a guest on my ship, The Onan, en route to my homeworld Priam. There, we will deliver your noxious, strident sounds to everyone, freeing them from their intransigent arousal. Then, after we are assured that all have been cured, we shall return you to your home."At this, Karen made an unpleasant face and began breathing on the clear wall of her enclosure, fogging it. Then, she quickly wrote a short message. "What does it mean?" Commander Momoa said, squinting at the squiggling lines she had made.At this, the computer made a chirp and began speaking, "The message, from the American dialect of the language English translates to: Why didn't you just make a recording?"Captain Hemsworth's shoulders slumped and he closed his eyes with a sigh. Commander Momoa's eyes went wide and he clapped his hand over his face in exasperation. "Fuck;” Momoa said in realization. "A recording;”"Dammit. We didn't have to take her at all, did we?" Captain Hemsworth groaned.Karen glared at them and wrote another word on the wall. As certain as Captain Hemsworth was that he did not need or want the translation, the computer was already on the job. "'Dumbasses,'" the computer cheerfully intoned, "a colloquial phrase, plural of the insult 'dumbass,' meaning 'a foolish or stupid person.'""End translation. Yes, Karen, if we had thought to record your voice instead of kidnapping you, this might have been a much shorter story, and considerably less inconvenient, but as it is, we are closer to Priam than Earth at this point, and our course is set. We will bring you to Priam and then return you home. Perhaps kidnapping you was not the most well-considered solution, but I defy you to think clearly after constantly watching porn for eons and let me know if you do any better."Karen's new calling.Great; as if getting old wasn't insult enough, I've actually become an intergalactic sexual repellent, Karen thought to herself as she paced around her cell. A lifetime of trying to do things right, and this is what it gets me. She wasn't so surprised that there were aliens in the universe, or that they had somehow weaponized porn, but that with all their advancements they were still so stupid!Sighing, she closed her eyes and listened to the ambient sounds of her cell. Life had been so noisy, the last 30 years. Everyone needing her, pulling on her for one thing or another. No peace. Lately though, with the kids gone and Cal; otherwise occupied; life had gone silent. The silence that she had wished for held no peace when it finally came. It just reverberated with the memory of things that had left her behind, making her anxious to fill the emptiness with noise. Nothing came to lure her mind away from the silence, no pleasurable temptations; her duties were done and it felt wrong to do, or even think about, anything else. My god, she had been kidnapped, was flying through the galaxy, and was surrounded by beefcake aliens and she was still thinking about that stupid loose tile in the master bathroom; she needed to get it fixed before the house was sold.A slight sound outside her cell drew her attention. "Who's there?" Karen asked, softly, opening her eyes.A wide-eyed figure peered around the edge of her cell, moving with cautious curiosity. It seemed younger than the other ones. It moved with a sense of barely-restrained eagerness, adorable and earnest. It also held a curved sort of wand in its hand."Honey, if you're here to anally probe me, I'll pass. I already had a colonoscopy this year, I'll have them send you the records;” she murmured, not expecting an answer.After a pause as the figure listened to the translation, its large eyes got even wider. "Is that how you poop?" he asked."What?" she asked, looking more closely at the young alien."I'm supposed to clean your cell when you poop; but you haven't pooped yet; wait, do colonoscopies make you poop?" it asked, scandalized.Karen closed her eyes and shook her head, "No. Colonoscopies put a small camera up your ass so that we can pay a doctor to do what we were afraid aliens like you would do to us if we got drunk in cornfields too much. They don't make us poop. In fact; well, never mind;” she trailed off, embarrassed.She still had vivid memories of her first colonoscopy earlier in the year, drinking gallons of preparatory laxatives, and the resulting quality time with her phone on the toilet. It was an odd experience; not awful, but not one that she could talk to anyone about. Her friends only talked about their kids and their successes, or whose husband cheated on them with some young thing, viciously salivating over their friends' misery with barely concealed glee. Forget about talking through her fears about it with Cal; that wasn't something he was interested in. Not anymore.After the procedure, she had been scared and disoriented from the sedation. For whatever reason, Cal hadn't shown up to give her a ride home. The stupid clinic wouldn't let her leave until someone could drive her home and take care of her. She just sat there getting more and more anxious. Eventually, she called an Uber and begged Xabiib the driver to pretend to be her neighbor; or just someone who cared about her. She spent the ride home trying to say his name correctly while he chuckled and repeated it for her. It was so horrifyingly embarrassing. It's one thing to have no one care about you, but another thing to have the whole world know about it when you were helpless and confused.Tears had rolled down her cheeks and she absently wiped them off with her hand. The young alien sat up and craned his head to look at the liquid on her hand. Karen snorted, "At ease, Holland. It's not poop. You're not getting anything out of me unless you have some heavy-duty magnesium supplements or yogurt."Holland's eyes went wide, "Are humans telepathic???" he gasped. "How did you know my name? Wow, that's so cool! Do it again! What am I thinking about now?"Karen suppressed a smile. Closing her eyes, she pressed her fingers to her temples and swayed from side to side, mysteriously. "I see something; something in the mist; something about; could it be; no, it makes no sense. Is it; a Zen; Zendayan? Does that make any sense to you?" she asked.Holland dropped his curved instrument in shock. "Yes! Yes! We just met them! We negotiated with them for supplies! I was there to carry stuff and; and;” he paused, shrinking in on himself a bit. "They are so beautiful. The Zendayans? So beautiful; and super nice; and just; like wow; I was supposed to just stand there until they were done with the talking and bowing and stuff, but they were just like so beautiful.""Well, what happened?" Karen asked."Captain introduced me and I bowed to them. I was feeling dizzy because, you know, their beautifulness just keeps radiating off them. Then; then; the most beautiful of them; she smiled." Holland stared at nothing, immersed in the memory, then wobbled, tipped over, and lay on the floor staring at the ceiling.Karen bit her lips in amusement. "I see. What did you do then?""I; I; I started talking and then I just couldn't stop because I was just trying to say how beautiful she was and how it just made my mind explode when she smiled and then I might have peed on the floor.""Oh dear," Karen said, cringing in sympathy. "We don't always put forward the face we want to when we are in our feelings, do we?" she said, quietly."Yeah; I've been cleaning poop ever since;” Holland sighed. After a while he sat back up, picked up the curved instrument and began twirling it in his hands. "So, like; what about you? Have you always made horrible noises?" he asked.Karen huffed, but then she saw the oblivious earnestness in Holland's face and sighed. "No; I wasn't always; like this. In fact, until about 30 years ago, I made beautiful noises. I was a pianist," she said."But, wait, they said you were a female;” Holland said, confused."Pee, an, ist," Karen repeated slowly. "I played the piano. It's an instrument; I was a musician. I was a student at Juilliard. It's a school on Earth; it was like a dream to even get in. I was on a scholarship, living in this shoddy apartment with my roommate Dana;” she trailed off, thinking about those days when everything seemed possible."Wait! Are you remembering?" Holland asked, breaking her reverie. "Can I remember it, too? Nobody wants to remember with me ever since the Zendayans, so I'm just left with my own memories and it gets so boring.""What are you talking about?""Well, it's kinda like; um; let me just show you. Computer, scan The Karen and project her memories," Holland ordered. A humming noise filled the room and a beam of light shot out of the wall and passed over her several times. Suddenly, her cell transformed into her shoddy apartment in Newark, New Jersey."Oh my gosh; it's just like it," Karen gasped looking around."Humans dream of getting into this?" Holland said, scrutinizing a cockroach scurrying along the floor."No, silly. This was our apartment across the river. We lived here when we weren't at school. Dana and I moved off campus in our second year. We took jobs on the side through an agency. That was when;” she sat down and a phone in the apartment's bedroom began ringing.A long, pale arm reached out of a pile of blankets on the bed and grabbed the phone. "Hullo?" Dana mumbled. A voice on the phone sounded irate. "Yeah, I'm almost there," she said and hung up.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 6th Publish Date:  June 6th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, June 6th and Happy Birthday to Tommie Smith I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal New $50,000 Median to Drive Safety on Fairground Street Attempted Carjacking Suspect Held at Gunpoint by Civilian, Arrested in Marietta Kennesaw’s Salute to America is July 3 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on controlling your sweet tooth 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: New $50,000 Median to Drive Safety on Fairground Street Marietta is enhancing road safety with a new median on Fairground Street near Haley Street. The $50,000 project, set to finish next week, aims to prevent U-turns that have caused accidents and traffic issues. The median will allow only left turns off Fairground Street, with 200 feet of median and 115 feet of curb being installed. Signage will alert drivers to the changes, ensuring smoother and safer traffic flow. STORY 2: Attempted Carjacking Suspect Held at Gunpoint by Civilian, Arrested in Marietta A carjacking suspect, Rico Riley, was arrested in Marietta after a witness, Gary Edwards, intervened and held him at gunpoint. Riley allegedly attempted to steal two cars at a Chevron gas station on Franklin Gateway. He first fought a woman for her car keys, then tried to carjack a second vehicle with a family inside. Edwards intervened both times, ultimately detaining Riley until police arrived. Riley faces multiple felony charges, including attempted armed robbery and child cruelty, and is held without bond. Marietta Police commend Edwards but urge witnesses to prioritize safety and call 911 in such situations. STORY 3: Kennesaw’s Salute to America is July 3 Kennesaw's annual Independence Day celebration, **Salute to America**, takes place July 3 from 6–10 p.m. in downtown Kennesaw. The free event features live music, food vendors, family activities, and a fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m. Performances include Tripp’n at 6 p.m., Girls Night Out at 7 p.m., and Guardians of the Jukebox at 8 p.m. Kids can enjoy ticketed inflatables, and food and drinks will be available for purchase. Reserved seating is $20, with reservations at kennesawjuly3.com. Tobacco and e-cigarettes are prohibited, and the event may be rescheduled for bad weather. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 4: Update: Asylum Seeker Married to Alpharetta Man Released on Bond Colombian asylum seeker Daniela Landin, 24, was released on a $10,000 bond after nearly a month in ICE custody. Married to Alpharetta resident Richard Landin, she fled gang violence in Colombia and sought asylum last year, though her initial request was denied and is under appeal. ICE detained her in May, citing an issue with her ankle monitor, despite it functioning properly. Her bond was granted after a delayed hearing, with the judge convinced of her sincerity and low flight risk. The couple, unable to fly due to her lack of ID, is driving back to Georgia, relieved to reunite. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — June 6 - 8 This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events: Marietta Square hosts its free Art Walk Friday from 5-9 p.m., showcasing local art alongside shopping and dining. The BLADE Show at Cobb Galleria Centre runs Friday-Sunday, featuring unique blades and collectibles, with tickets starting at $30. The Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K kicks off Saturday at 8 a.m., followed by a post-race party. The Strand Theatre presents "Grease" with showtimes through June 22, and Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw screens "Moana 2" Saturday at 8:15 p.m., with pre-movie activities starting at 6 p.m. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on controlling your sweet tooth We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 4th Publish Date:  June 4th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, June 4th and Happy Birthday to Angelina Jolie I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Students Receive College-Sponsored National Merit Scholarships Judge Pauses State Sanctions put on Cobb, Cities Cobb Advances 300-Apartment Development Amid School District Concerns 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Cobb Students Receive College-Sponsored National Merit Scholarships Fourteen Cobb County students have earned college-sponsored scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship Program, part of over 2,900 winners nationwide this year. These scholarships, ranging from $500 to $2,000 annually, are funded by 146 colleges and universities. Recipients were selected from 2025 National Merit Finalists based on academic excellence, recommendations, and test scores. The winners, representing schools like Lassiter, Walton, and Wheeler High, plan to pursue diverse fields such as engineering, law, genetics, and marine biology. By the program’s end, over 6,930 students will have received scholarships totaling nearly $26 million. STORY 2: Judge Pauses State Sanctions put on Cobb, Cities Sanctions cutting off state funding for Cobb County and its seven cities have been paused by a Cobb Superior Court ruling. The sanctions stemmed from Mableton and Cobb County missing a May 31 deadline to finalize a Service Delivery Strategy agreement. Mableton initially rejected the $9.5 million deal but later approved a revised version, allowing more time for payment. The court ruled the sanctions would harm Cobb’s 800,000 residents, halting state support for infrastructure, public safety, and more. If the agreement is finalized soon, sanctions could lift by July 1. Mableton plans to create a special service district to fund its payment. STORY 3: Cobb Advances 300-Apartment Development Amid School District Concerns The Cobb County Planning Commission approved a 300-unit apartment development on South Cobb Parkway near Cumberland Mall, replacing an aging hotel. Developer Alliance Residential plans a five-story building with amenities like a pool, gym, and co-working space, targeting young professionals, downsizers, and seniors. Despite concerns from the Cobb School District about overcrowding at Teasley Elementary, the commission voted unanimously to advance the project. Alliance argued the development would generate $1.19 million in annual tax revenue and suggested rezoning the area to Brumby Elementary, which has capacity. The proposal now heads to the Board of Commissioners for final approval on June 17. 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: TOP TECH_FINAL STORY 4: Cobb EMC’s Nurdan Cornelius Honored as 2025 Woman of Distinction Nurdan Cornelius, recently retired director of consumer marketing at Cobb EMC, has been named the 2025 Woman of Distinction by Cobb Executive Women. Honored after Cobb Chair Lisa Cupid’s State of the County address, Cornelius was recognized for her leadership, community involvement, and social responsibility. Over her 20-year career, she led transformative initiatives at Cobb EMC and dedicated decades to civic causes, including providing over 1 million diapers and 10,000 winter coats to families in need. Known for her global perspective and commitment to underserved communities, Cornelius remains a driving force in Cobb County. STORY 5: Pedestrian Hit by Two Cars in Marietta, Sustains Life-Threatening Injuries A pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries after being struck by two vehicles Monday night on Powder Springs St. in Marietta. The incident occurred around 11:26 p.m. near a QuikTrip gas station when the man, crossing in a crosswalk but against the traffic signal, was hit by a 2020 Mercedes Benz and then a 2015 Nissan. Both drivers remained on the scene and are cooperating with police. Video evidence from Cobb County Police supports the investigation, and no charges are expected. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Marietta Police Investigator D. Lester. Break: INGLES 1 STORY 6: Austell Appoints First Woman Police Chief in Cobb County Shameta Jones-Harrell has been appointed as Austell’s new police chief, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Cobb County history. The City Council unanimously approved her promotion, praising her leadership. A 25-year law enforcement veteran, Jones-Harrell holds a criminal justice degree and has served in various roles, including deputy chief in Austell and major in Brookhaven. She has managed multiple divisions, from community engagement to training. Jones-Harrell has been interim chief since March and officially steps into the role following former Chief Scott Hamilton’s resignation. Capt. Cecil Lloyd Garett will now serve as deputy chief. STORY 7: Georgia Department of Driver Services Implements Federal Commercial Medical Certificate Mandate Starting June 18, 2025, Georgia CDL holders requiring medical certifications must have their Medical Certificates submitted directly to the FMCSA by their Medical Examiner, as per the Medical Certification Integration Final Rule. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) will no longer accept hard copies via mail, fax, email, online, or in-person. Medical providers will input the information into the National Registry, which FMCSA will transmit to DDS. Existing certificates remain valid until expiration. DDS advises customers to create an Online Services Account for easy monitoring and to handle transactions like license replacements or address changes online. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we're joined by Dr. Christy Cobb and Dr. Katherine Shaner to talk about their new edited volume, Ancient Slavery and Its New Testament Contexts (published by Eerdmans). Dr. Christy Cobb is Associate Professor of Christianity in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Denver, and Dr. Katherine Shaner is Associate Professor of New Testament at Wake Forest University School of Divinity. Over the course of the episode we discuss the different essays in the volume, what the inception of the collection was, Dr. Cobb and Dr. Shaner's respective contributions to the book, and some of the intriguing developments on the scholarship of ancient slavery for understanding New Testament texts. Team members on the episode from The Two Cities include: the Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Adishian, Dr. John Anthony Dunne, and Rev. Daniel Parham. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's location-specific episode features the State of Tennessee.  We explore the overview of the housing guiding document called Landlord-Tenant Act in Tennessee.  Each of my location-specific podcasts is set up the same way answering the same four questions:  1) What are the basics of the Landlord-Tenant Act in Tennessee, 2) What are the nuances of this location – what is different that stands out?, 3) Some guidance about abandoned items left behind by a tenant in a rental inState of Tennessee, and 4) Where to get help in your local area in State of Tennessee.  This episode is NOT all inclusive – you must research further in your specific area including your County, Regional District, Parish, City or any other Governing Body that involves your rental location, but today's episode will get you started!This episode includes resources for State of Tennessee including:Landlord-Tenant Act in Tennessee Ultracode.pdfHHW_LAS_TN_URLTA_Renters_Rights.pdfDepartment of Health; Healthy Homes Renters Info:  RentersTENNLandlordTenantBrochure.pdfyour-rights-as-a-tenant-under-the-uniform-residential.pdfTennessee landlords have rights when tenants abandon the premises | Spragins, Barnett & Cobb, PLC Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumberlands.  1-800-238-1443 or go to www.las.org.   Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division:  615-714-4737 (Consumer hotline) or email:  consumer.affairs@state.tn.us or website www.tn.gov/consumer Legal Aid of East Tennessee www.laet.org (Bradley, Blount, Hamilton, Knox, Sevier, Sullivan, and Washington Counties).  

Episode 4 of our Grape Expectations Series features Moby Grape & Skip Spence biographer Cam Cobb talking about Skip's rollercoaster ride through those early days of Moby Grape, a tale which includes disastrous tours, lawsuits, police busts, horribly nefarious managers, a fake touring version of the band, mysterious black magic witches, drug-induced madness, insane asylums, and attempted murder with an axe.  And, no joke—that's just within the band's first two years.  Here's just a few of the many things that Cam discusses with Discograffiti in Part 2 of our discussion:A step-by-step reconstruction of the hunt for talent that wound up pulling together the original band;The manifold ways in which Matthew Katz failed them as a manager;How The Summer of Love ironically wound up beating this great band down;A discussion about why Skip's songs of biblical reckoning took a sharp left into novelty-adjacent Weird Al territory!*** This episode includes a cameo appearance by the great JERRY MILLER, who talks with Cam about the band's early days as they began to gel as a unit!There'll be a short sneak peak running publicly for free, but the entirety of this podcast will only be accessible on the Major Tier of Discograffiti's Patreon. Don't miss it, or you'll only be getting part of the story. Get it as a one-off, get the full series, or better yet just subscribe.Full Episode: Patreon.com/Discograffiti (available on the Major Tier & up)Free Sneak Peek: linktr.ee/discograffitiPurchase the full Grape Expectations Collection at a discount: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/collection/1467935⁠Subscribe to Discograffiti's Patreon and receive a ceaseless barrage (4 shows a week!) of must-hear binge-listening. It's completely free to be a basic member, $1 to get your backstage pass, $5/month for the weekly Sunday show by & for our community, $10 for weekly early release, ad-free, super-extended Director's Cuts of the main show plus access to half our Patreon episode archive, & $20 for Discograffiti's weekly bonus episodes and access to our entire Patreon episode archive. There are now over 300 Patreon episodes.Order Cam Cobb's Skip Spence bio: ⁠https://a.co/d/iuSyBGc⁠CONNECTJoin our Soldiers of Sound Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1839109176272153Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DiscograffitiPodfollow:⁠ ⁠⁠https://podfollow.com/1592182331⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel:⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClyaQCdvDelj5EiKj6IRLhw⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discograffitipod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Discograffiti/Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/Discograffiti⁠Order the Digital version of the METAL MACHINE MUZAK 2xLP (feat. Lou Barlow, Cory Hanson, Mark Robinson, & W. Cullen Hart):⁠ www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/197404⁠Order the $11 Digital version of the MMM 2xLP on Bandcamp:⁠ https://discograffiti.bandcamp.com/album/metal-machine-muzak⁠Order the METAL MACHINE MUZAK Double Vinyl + Digital package: www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/169954Merch Shop:⁠ https://discograffitipod.myspreadshop.com/all⁠Venmo Dave A Tip: @David-GebroeWeb site:⁠ http://discograffiti.com/⁠CONTACT DAVEEmail: dave@discograffiti.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hooligandaveInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/davidgebroe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaveGebroewww.Patreon.com/discograffiti#mobygrape #sanfrancisco #sixties #billgraham #fillmorewest #gordonstevens #doobiebrothers #weirdherald #billydeanandrus #donstevenson #peterlewis #bobmosley #jerrymiller #robertplant #skipspence #avalonballroom #familydog #thebyrds #jeffersonairplane #matthewkatz #camcobb #bellevue #jormakaukonen #discograffiti #metalmachinemuzak #soldiersofsound #grapeexpectations #thematrix #martybalin #omarspence 

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 30th Publish Date:  May 30th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, May 30th and Happy Birthday to Gayle Sayers I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal The Avenue West Cobb to Have Summer Vibes KSU dancers selected to participate in prestigious summer workshops Cobb County High School Coalition and Assurant Dedicate First Habitat Home Build of the Year Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on local vendors 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: The Avenue West Cobb to Have Summer Vibes The Avenue West Cobb is hosting **Summer Vibes**, a family-friendly event series from June 9 to July 27. Highlights include: - **Summer Social** (June 13): Games, crafts, and treats like lemonade. - **International Yoga Day** (June 21): Yoga class, healthy drinks, and a giveaway. - **Build Your Own Bouquet** (July 11): Create custom floral arrangements. - **Backyard BBQ Bash** (July 26): Games, food, and a picnic essentials giveaway. Events take place in the Green Space, offering fun for all ages. Visit avenuewestcobb.com/summer-vibes for details! STORY 2: KSU dancers selected to participate in prestigious summer workshops Three Kennesaw State University dancers earned scholarships to prestigious summer programs after standout performances earlier this year. George Chavez will attend the Alvin Ailey School’s Professional Intensive in New York, while Allison Behrend and Charlene Font head to the American Dance Festival at Duke University. Their achievements highlight the strength of KSU’s dance program and the dedication of its faculty. These opportunities will allow the dancers to explore new techniques and grow as artists, further enhancing KSU’s reputation in the dance community. Their success reflects the program’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering artistic growth. STORY 3: Cobb County High School Coalition and Assurant Dedicate First Habitat Home Build of the Year The Cobb County High School Coalition and Assurant dedicated a new Habitat for Humanity home in Austell to future homeowner David, a hardworking single father and U.S. Postal Service employee. Built by students from five local high schools, this marks the coalition’s 28th Habitat home and the first of 2025. For David, the home represents love, safety, and opportunity for his family. Habitat CEO Kyle Huhtanen praised the coalition’s longevity and Assurant’s continued support. David expressed gratitude to all who made his dream of homeownership a reality. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 4: Marietta Student Awarded Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grant Martha Frascella of Marietta, a Kennesaw State University student majoring in English and human services, received a $1,000 Study Abroad Grant from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. She is one of 75 recipients nationwide and will use the grant to study at the European Academy Otzenhausen in Germany. The grant supports undergraduates seeking global academic experiences, with recipients selected based on academic achievement, service, and career goals. Phi Kappa Phi’s grant program, established in 2001, awards over $1 million annually to support students and literacy initiatives. STORY 5: Walmart honors Kennesaw company for Small Business Month Kennesaw-based Beaumont Products Inc., known for its eco-friendly Citrus Magic products, was named a Preferred Georgia Small Business by Walmart during National Small Business Month. This honor highlights Walmart’s commitment to supporting small businesses, which supply 60% of its products. Founded in 1991 by Hank Picken, Beaumont has grown under CEO Jeff Picken, earning over $30 million annually and distributing to major retailers like Walmart, Publix, and Target. Walmart has been a key partner since 2006, boosting Beaumont’s revenue by over 50%. The recognition celebrates Beaumont’s dedication to creating safe, high-quality products. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on local vendors We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the two hundred and sixty-sixth episode of THE THIRD ACT PODCAST, the crew are throwing curveballs.Christian, Jericho, and Armando go into extra innings with reviews of the new melancholic baseball hangout movie EEPHUS, and then pair it with two older films, 1973's BANG THE DRUM SLOWLY starring a young Robert De Niro in full southern drawl, and the 1994 biopic COBB, featuring a scenery-chewing Tommy Lee Jones as the divisive center fielder. They also discuss Armando's take on SINNERS, sad sack middle-aged desperation, New England autumnal vibes, how weird of a game baseball is, getting "eaten out" by domineering coaches, and what happens when an actor goes beyond "Up To Something."Subscribe to Jericho's Substack: symbioticreviews.substack.comKeep in touch with us on Instagram and email us anytime at: TheThirdActPodcast@gmail.com   

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 28th Publish Date:  May 28th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, May 28th and Happy Birthday to Gladys Knight I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Mableton Payout to Cobb Presents 'Serious Financial Challenge' Early Voting Underway for Ga. Commission Overseeing Utilities KSU Researchers Develop Phone Application to Combat Elderly Loneliness 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Mableton Payout to Cobb Presents 'Serious Financial Challenge' Mableton is considering a $9.5 million payment to Cobb County for one year of police and transportation services, a move Mayor Michael Owens calls a "serious financial challenge." The deal, part of an intergovernmental agreement, aims to ensure public safety while avoiding state sanctions. Mableton, exiting its transitional phase, currently offers limited services and has operated without property taxes, relying on other fees. To fund services, the city may establish a special services district. Negotiations follow Cobb’s initial $23 million service bill, which nearly doubled Mableton’s proposed budget. Final votes on the agreement are expected this week. STORY 2: Early Voting Underway for Ga. Commission Overseeing Utilities Early voting has begun in Cobb County and across Georgia for the June 17 special primaries to fill two seats on the Public Service Commission (PSC), which regulates utilities like electric and natural gas. The PSC oversees rate approvals, including Georgia Power's recent agreement to freeze base rates for three years. Incumbents Tim Echols (District 2) and Fitz Johnson (District 3) are on the ballot, with Echols facing a GOP challenger and Johnson unopposed. Early voting runs through June 13 at four Cobb locations, with low turnout expected initially but likely increasing closer to Election Day. STORY 3: KSU Researchers Develop Phone Application to Combat Elderly Loneliness Kennesaw State University researchers are developing Sandrapp, an AI-powered tool to combat chronic loneliness among older adults, which can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Unlike traditional social platforms, Sandrapp focuses on fostering real-life connections by matching users with individuals who share similar values and experiences. Led by an interdisciplinary team, the app prioritizes usability and user needs, gathering insights from older adults and families. Sandrapp aims to enable meaningful meetups, not replace them, while exploring subtle monitoring technologies for reassurance. The project emphasizes rebuilding social support networks to improve mental and physical health. 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: The Walker School Honors the Class of 2025 The Walker School celebrated its Class of 2025 with heartfelt speeches and reflections. Valedictorian William Darko encouraged classmates to find meaning in the mundane, while Salutatorian Sofia Tejedor highlighted the unique gifts and accomplishments of each graduate. Keynote speaker Lauren Hands, a 2007 alumna and film producer, shared her journey of pivoting from law to a fulfilling career in creativity and community impact. She credited Walker for fostering her confidence to embrace her passions and urged graduates to stay true to themselves, pursue progress over perfection, and embrace their individuality as they step into the world. STORY 5: Local Teams Compete in National High School Quiz Competition The 2025 High School National Championship Tournament brought 336 quiz bowl teams from across the U.S. and beyond to Atlanta, including Marietta’s The Walker School and The Stonehaven School. Stonehaven, led by captain Samuel Marks, finished with a 3-7 record. Walker, coached by Michael Arjona and others, excelled with a 7-3 record in preliminaries, advancing to playoffs and finishing 13th overall. Karthik Jayaram earned All-Star honors for his standout performance, answering 94 tossup questions. The tournament champion was Livingston High School’s A team from New Jersey. Break: STORY 6: Cobb Police Search for Suspect in Monday Hit-and-Run on I-285 Cobb County police are searching for a suspect in a hit-and-run crash on I-285 near the I-75 interchange. Around 11:19 a.m. Monday, a dark-colored sedan, possibly a Kia, changed lanes and may have collided with a white 1996 GMC Safari. The GMC lost control, hitting the median, while the sedan fled. The GMC driver, a 57-year-old Austell man, suffered serious injuries, and a 22-year-old passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries; both were hospitalized. Police urge anyone with information to contact the STEP Unit at 770-499-3987. STORY 7: Historical Society to Host Black Genealogy Workshop The Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society will host a genealogy workshop on June 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the William Root House in Marietta. Led by Christopher Smothers, founder of Unearthing Your Roots Inc., the workshop will explore resources like Census and Probate Records for genealogical research. Smothers will also share a list of formerly enslaved individuals from Cobb County probate records. Tickets are $15 and must be purchased online in advance, as space is limited. For details, visit CobbLandmarks.com. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're diving deep, like three layers deep, into Christopher Nolan's reality-bending sci-fi thriller with our Inception (2010) Review. The team celebrates three years of podcasting with one of the most mind-twisting films of the 21st century.It's only fitting that a film about dreams, time loops, and subconscious sabotage kicks off our birthday episode. With a cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Ken Watanabe, this Nolan original has become a modern classic. But is it as smart as it thinks it is? Does the top fall? And how many times do you really need to watch it to understand what the hell is going on?Whitey, G-Man, and Damo don't just scratch the surface, they go full inception mode, breaking down the film's ambitious plot, its dream architecture, and whether Cobb is actually home with his kids or just lost in another layer.From Dreamscapes to DiCaprioWhitey kicks off with his usual gusto, revealing that he saw Inception solo on opening day, classic cinephile move. He hails it as peak Nolan and DiCaprio's most complex role, while G-Man confesses he just watched the movie in full for the first time this week. Damo, meanwhile, delivers the ultimate snob flex: he's seen it three times and still finds new details with each watch.The team breaks down Dom Cobb's fractured psyche, the emotionally rich (and confusing) relationship with Mal, and how Ariadne (played by Elliot (Ellen) Page) is more than just the new recruit; she's the audience surrogate. There's praise for Joseph Gordon-Levitt's gravity-defying hallway fight and Tom Hardy's cheeky charm as dream-forger Eames. Hardy might just be playing his most “normal” character ever.The Nolan EffectFrom the layered timelines to the rules of the dream world, Nolan's script is pure high-concept storytelling. The boys debate the film's exposition-heavy style, with Damo defending it as necessary and Whitey pointing out how cleverly the rules are integrated into dialogue. G-Man admits that the film almost lost him early on, but it eventually clicked.The group agrees that what sets Inception apart isn't just its ambition, it's the balance between visual spectacle and emotional stakes. Cobb's longing to return to his children grounds the entire story. As Whitey puts it, “Love is the engine of the movie.” And that spinning top at the end? The debate rages, with Damo arguing that the wedding ring, not the top, is Cobb's real totem.Zimmer's Sonic BoomHans Zimmer's iconic score is one of the true stars of the episode and the film. The guys take a detour to relive their recent trip to see Zimmer live, where “Time” was the final encore and “Mombasa” opened the show. Damo drops some deep trivia, including Zimmer's creation of the signature “braaam” sound that became a staple in modern trailers.Zimmer's blend of orchestral grandeur and percussive power is credited with elevating Inception to the next level. It's not just background music, it's narrative glue.Big Ideas, Bigger DebatesThe episode also tackles the meta: could inception be real? Is dream-sharing possible? The crew has fun exploring the logic (and illogic) of the film's concept, concluding that it's a hard "maybe". They also dive into Nolan's place in the pantheon of modern directors, putting him above even some of the biggest names for his commitment to originality.Damo offers a run-through of the best Nolan films, debating whether Inception tops The Dark Knight, Interstellar, and Memento. G-Man drops trivia about the film's production and cast (yes, Pete Postlethwaite was only in it for three minutes), and the whole crew salutes Nolan's ability to deliver blockbuster-level art films.IN THIS EPISODE:Dream physics, logic puzzles, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt in zero-GThe tragic brilliance of Mal and why Cobb's guilt is the real villainTom Hardy: suave or too normal?The mystery of Ariadne's tiny pantsIs this peak Nolan? (Spoiler: probably)Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your movie fix.Join the conversation:Does the top fall or spin forever?Is Inception Nolan's best film or just his most ambitious?Who out of the cast would make the best Bond?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and tell us your dreams—or nightmares—about the movie.#InceptionReview #ChristopherNolan #LeonardoDiCaprio #BornToWatchPodcast #HansZimmer #TomHardy #MoviePodcast #SciFiMovies #MindBendingCinema #DreamWithinADream

Raul Ries, heard weekdays at 1030am on the "Somebody Loves You" radio program on WFIL, joins the show today. SLY is celebrating 27 years on WFIL and is the "Ministry of the Month" for May :). Ries shares about his wife Sharon (who went to be with the Lord a year ago), thoughts on being a godly father, and the ministry of SLY. He also gives insight into "Follow Me" (a free booklet each listener is welcome to download) and his book Sin: The Root of All Evil (the daily prize being given away this month on WFIL). Ries is Pastor of Calvary Chapel Golden Springs in Diamond Bar, CA, a Vietnam Veteran, and Master in Kung fu San Soo. The book (and film) Fury to Freedom detail his miraculous transformation. Garry "G" Cobb, NFL linebacker for 11 seasons with Detroit, Dallas, and Philadelphia, checks in with thoughts and stories pertaining to fatherhood including wisdom and discipline imparted by his own father and with regard to our heavenly Father. Cobb, who has worked in radio and TV for decades, also chimes in on recent news pertaining to Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni's contract extension, the "Tush Push" living to see at least another season, and the Eagles 2025 schedule. Sports clip: A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver) (philadelphiaeagles.com)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Martin Cobb, senior vice-president of equities at Lorne Steinberg Wealth Management, shares his outlook on global equities.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 23rd Publish Date:  May 23rd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, May 23rd and Happy Birthday to Drew Carey I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta Man Accused of Failing to Pay Musicians for Performances at Cherokee Chop House Four Cobb County Student-Athletes Awarded Marietta Man Charged with Attempted Stabbing Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: Marietta Man Accused of Failing to Pay Musicians for Performances at Cherokee Chop House Jerry Royce Watson of Marietta faces charges for allegedly failing to pay musicians and singers he hired to perform at the Cherokee Chop House between November and December 2024. According to a Cobb County Police warrant, Watson owes thousands to various performers, including a trombone player ($1,900), a bass player ($2,100), and a singer ($3,000). In total, he faces five counts of theft of services over $1,500 and three counts under $1,500. Watson has not been listed in jail records. STORY 2: Four Cobb County Student-Athletes Awarded For the 11th year, Positive Athlete awarded over $30,000 in scholarships to student-athletes in Georgia who embody positivity and excellence in sports. Over 6,400 nominations from 440+ schools were submitted, with winners meeting specific scholarship criteria. Cobb County recipients include Ben Laskey (Harrison High), Grant Pool (North Cobb Christian), Cade Saldi (Mount Paran Christian), and Elizabeth Michalek (Walton High), each receiving $1,000 scholarships. The winners will be honored at the Georgia Positive Athlete Awards Ceremony on June 5, 2025, in Marietta. STORY 3: Marietta Man Charged with Attempted Stabbing Junior Esquivel Medina, 21, of Marietta, is accused of attempting to stab a man and injuring the victim's forearm with a knife on May 16 at a mobile home in Lamplighter Village, Marietta. Charged with aggravated assault, Medina was arrested early that morning and remains in custody without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 8 STORY 4: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — May 23 - 25 This weekend in Marietta offers a variety of events! The Marietta Square Farmers Market returns Saturday morning with over 50 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and artisan goods. Acworth will host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Cauble Park at 10 a.m. Saturday to honor fallen soldiers. Sports fans can catch the Atlanta Braves facing the San Diego Padres at Truist Park, with games Friday through Sunday. For entertainment, the Strand Theatre presents "Grease" starting Friday, and the Alley Stage hosts "Comedy on the Square" Friday and Saturday nights. STORY 5: Political fallout starting after Army Corps closes recreational areas ahead of Memorial Day A federal staffing shortage has led to the closure of 31 lakeside recreational areas in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi just before Memorial Day weekend. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced closures at 20 Lake Lanier sites, two at Allatoona Lake, and others across the region, sparking political backlash. U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick criticized Democrats for blocking a funding bill he claims could have prevented these closures. The closures are linked to budget cuts by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency, established under President Trump and Elon Musk. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this ForbesTalks conversation, NAACP Image Award–nominated podcast host and ComebackTV CEO Erica Cobb sits down with Forbes' Community Manager, Ayisha Mendez to share her IVF journey, the real cost of infertility, and why she created Fertility Unfiltered. From breaking cultural taboos to building a digital community, Cobb offers insights, resources, and advice for anyone navigating assisted conception—and shows how storytelling is her most powerful form of advocacy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Grape Expectations, an immersive, 5-week-long, Rashomon-style series about the amazing band Moby Grape, featuring all three living band members and their biographer.  There is no crazier story in the history of music than that of The Grape. It includes disastrous tours, lawsuits, police busts, horribly nefarious managers, a fake touring version of the band, mysterious black magic witches, drug-induced madness, insane asylums, and attempted murder with an axe.  And, no joke—that's just within the band's first two years. The first episode features Moby Grape and Skip Spence biographer Cam Cobb talking about Skip's dizzying years leading up to the formation of Moby Grape!Here's just a few of the many things that Cam discusses with Discograffiti in Part 1 of this podcast:Skip's wandering childhood;Coming up with Billy Dean Andrus in the South Bay folk scene;His first (little-known) acid trip;The truth behind the wild legend of Skip passing through both Quicksilver and Jefferson Airplane in literally one afternoon;Skip's initial songwriting efforts;And his whirlwind 10-month tenure in The Airplane!Listen: linktr.ee/discograffitiI support a wife and a six-year-old son with Discograffiti as my sole source of income. If you're a Moby Grape & Skip Spence superfan like me, The Director's Cut of this episode is ad-free and features 11 additional minutes of essential material. Purchase The Director's Cut as a one-off:Purchase the full Grape Expectations Collection: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1467935Subscribe to Discograffiti's Patreon at the Major Tier and receive a ceaseless barrage (4 shows a week) of must-hear binge-listening: Patreon.com/DiscograffitiOrder Cam Cobb's Skip Spence bio: https://a.co/d/iuSyBGcCONNECTJoin our Soldiers of Sound Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1839109176272153Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DiscograffitiPodfollow: ⁠⁠https://podfollow.com/1592182331⁠⁠YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClyaQCdvDelj5EiKj6IRLhwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/discograffitipod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Discograffiti/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiscograffitiOrder the Digital version of the METAL MACHINE MUZAK 2xLP (feat. Lou Barlow, Cory Hanson, Mark Robinson, & W. Cullen Hart): www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/197404Order the $11 Digital version of the MMM 2xLP on Bandcamp: https://discograffiti.bandcamp.com/album/metal-machine-muzakOrder the METAL MACHINE MUZAK Double Vinyl + Digital package: www.patreon.com/discograffiti/shop/169954Merch Shop: https://discograffitipod.myspreadshop.com/allVenmo Dave A Tip: @David-GebroeWeb site: http://discograffiti.com/CONTACT DAVEEmail: dave@discograffiti.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hooligandaveInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/davidgebroe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaveGebroeThere is no other Patreon in existence where you get more for your money. 4 shows a week is what it takes these days to successfully blot out our unacceptable reality…so do yourself a favor and give it a shot for at least one month to see what I'm talking about.  If you're already a member, please comment below about your experience.  www.Patreon.com/discograffiti#mobygrape #sanfrancisco #sixties #billgraham #fillmorewest #gordonstevens #doobiebrothers #weirdherald #billydeanandrus #donstevenson #peterlewis #bobmosley #jerrymiller #robertplant #skipspence #avalonballroom #familydog #thebyrds #jeffersonairplane #matthewkatz #camcobb #bellevue #jormakaukonen #discograffiti #metalmachinemuzak #soldiersofsound #grapeexpectations #thematrix #martybalin #omarspence 

It's couples week on Stories as Kerri Cobb Harrison joins the podcast. Her husband Tommy Harrison just talked to Paul the other day and Paul started by commenting that he has not met a couple so compatible as Kerri and Tommy. Kerri grew up in New Kent, Virginia and told Paul that she had a great childhood playing sports and spending time on the James River with her grandparents. Kerri was a two sport athlete in college where she played basketball and softball at Lynchburg University and Christopher Newport University. Kerri had been teaching softball since her senior year in high school, but after graduating from CNU, she turned it into a real business. She has been teaching and/or coaching softball for 34 years and 2025 will mark the 24th year of her All American Fastpitch Softball camp. They discussed Kerri's teaching philosophy and how she teaches life lessons along with softball fundamentals. Kerri is also a competitive body builder and they had a great discussion about what they entails on a daily basis and overall. They finished by talking about her family including her parents who have had a huge influence on Kerri.  Info on the 2025 All American Fastpitch Camp can be found at https://www.allamericanfastpitch.org/camp-landing-page

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 21st Publish Date:  May 21st    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, May 21st and Happy Birthday to ***05.21.24 - BIRTHDAY – MR T*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Kennesaw Man Charged with Having Modified Weapons at Kennesaw Publix New Playground at Tim Lee Boys & Girls Club KSU Recognized for Environmental Stewardship 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Kennesaw Man Charged with Having Modified Weapons at Kennesaw Publix Tyler Gus Haynes, 31, of Marietta, was arrested on May 2 at a Publix in Kennesaw after being found with modified weapons, including three rifles, a Glock 19 pistol, switches to convert pistols to fully automatic, and armor-piercing ammunition. Authorities were alerted after Haynes reportedly expressed suicidal intentions and plans to rob a business. He faces charges of unlawful possession of firearms and remains in custody without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. STORY 2: New Playground at Tim Lee Boys & Girls Club On May 19, the Atlanta Braves, Gas South, and The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier unveiled a new playground at the Tim Lee Boys & Girls Club. Funded by the Braves Foundation and Gas South, the playground offers a safe, modern space for kids to develop physically, socially, and cognitively. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured community members, kids, and Braves mascot BLOOPER, followed by celebrations with food, giveaways, and playtime. This initiative reflects the Braves Foundation's mission to support communities through sports, health, and education programs. STORY 3: KSU Recognized for Environmental Stewardship Kennesaw State University received the Overall Community Improvement Award from Keep Cobb Beautiful at the Cobb County Sustainability Forum and Expo on April 30. The award highlights KSU's commitment to environmental stewardship through initiatives like its inaugural Sustainability Master Plan, which focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. María del Mar Ceballos and William Hargrove accepted the honor, emphasizing KSU's dedication to sustainability and institutional excellence. The event, held at Jim Miller Park, featured educational sessions and exhibits promoting green initiatives. 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: Man Charged with Attempting to Run Over Person at Acworth RaceTrac Ogochukwu Basil Ibenyenwa of Dallas is accused of attempting to run over a man with his Toyota Corolla on May 2 at a RaceTrac gas station in Acworth. After an argument where he allegedly struck the victim, Ibenyenwa was seen on surveillance making multiple U-turns and speeding toward the victim, narrowly missing him twice. He faces charges including battery, aggravated assault, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. Jail records do not show him in custody. STORY 5: Advocates for Children Open New Marietta Location Advocates for Children, a nonprofit focused on preventing child abuse and neglect, has opened a new location in Marietta to support families and at-risk youth. Programs include a Family Resource Center offering essentials like clothing, food, and housing referrals, in-home parenting education to build skills and relationships, and the Safe Place program, providing immediate help for youth in crisis. The organization has expanded Safe Place sites in Cobb County, including mobile options like Cobb Linc buses, ensuring accessible support. Advocates aim to stabilize families and empower youth through resources, education, and community collaboration. Break: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 6: Gov. Kemp Signs Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Specialty License Plate Bill into Law Gov. Brian Kemp signed House Bill 208, creating specialty license plates, including one honoring Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. The plate recognizes the sorority's contributions to education, health, and social justice in Georgia while supporting community programs and scholarships. Representatives Sheila Jones, Terry Cummings, and Mekyah McQueen praised the sorority's dedication to sisterhood, service, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Proceeds from the plate will fund Delta Life Development Center initiatives and other impactful programs statewide. STORY 7: Zoo Atlanta Teams up with Atlanta Braves on Animal All-Star Baseball Cards In celebration of the Atlanta Braves hosting the 2025 MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park on July 15, Zoo Atlanta is partnering with the Braves to release exclusive Animal All-Star baseball cards. Starting May 24, the zoo will unveil a new card weekly, featuring eight animals, including Hondo the African lion, in honor of its new lion complex. Cards can be collected at the zoo on weekends following each announcement with admission or membership. Announcements will be made on Zoo Atlanta’s social media, and cards are available while supplies last. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textEver wondered how the chicken on your plate became so efficient to produce? The answer lies in cutting-edge genetic science happening behind the scenes at companies like Cobb-Ventress. Brandon Mulnix sits down with William Herring, Vice President of Cobb-Ventress, at the Animal Ag Tech Innovation Summit in Dallas to uncover the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence, camera technology, and poultry genetics.With experience spanning beef cattle, pork, and now broiler chicken genetics, Herring brings unique cross-species perspective to genetic improvement. He walks us through Cobb's three-pronged approach to innovation: developing new genetic products, implementing cutting-edge science in their ongoing breeding programs, and staying ahead of scientific breakthroughs. The conversation reveals how every bird in their breeding program receives its own "social security number" and has countless traits measured to determine which individuals will create the next generation of broilers.The most captivating revelations come when Herring details how AI and camera technology are revolutionizing trait measurement. Traditional subjective scoring systems are being replaced with precision phenotyping that can analyze bird locomotion and even monitor mating behavior to address industry-wide hatchability challenges. We also get an inside look at Cobb's impressive "Proving Grounds" facility where they can test 40,000 breeding females simultaneously and produce 100,000 broiler eggs weekly for evaluation. Their relationship with parent company Tyson Foods allows for comprehensive meat quality assessment, creating what Herring calls a complete "playbook" for each new genetic product.Facing a future where beef prices reach record highs and pork supplies fluctuate due to African Swine Fever, Herring predicts continued global growth for poultry. For aspiring leaders, he emphasizes building teams with individuals smarter than yourself who can execute at high levels. Listen now for a fascinating glimpse into the technology shaping our food future and the leadership principles guiding agricultural innovation.Hosted by Brandon Mulnix - Director of Commercial Accounts - Prism ControlsThe Poultry Leadership Podcast is only possible because of its sponsor, Prism ControlsFind out more about them at www.prismcontrols.com

We're joined again by Izzy from What The Austen? (@whattheausten) to discuss the second half of the 2007 adaptation of Persuasion starring Sally Hawkins and directed by Adrian Shergold. Today's episode covers the film from Lyme through the end of the movie.Topics discussed include the film's opinion on moving on from lost love, the stormy Cobb, blood!!!, snuff, Harville as the ultimate bro, Bath locations, filming in the rain, the male loneliness epidemic, and the Great Bath Marathon of 1814.Glossary of People, Places, and Things: Game of Thrones, Merlin, The Last of Us, Outlander, The Crown, Mad Men, Mean Girls, Grey's Anatomy, Friends, Scooby Doo, Sex and the City, Ben Mercer, Cindy Lou Who, Avengers: Endgame, Severance, Gilmore GirlsTo explore more of What The Austen?, listen wherever you get your podcasts or check them out on Youtube! And be sure to follow Izzy on Instagram at @whattheausten.Next Episode: Persuasion (2022)Teepublic is now Dashery! Check out our new merch store at https://podandprejudice.dashery.com.Our show art was created by Torrence Browne, and our audio is produced by Graham Cook. For bios and transcripts, check out our website at podandprejudice.com. Pod and Prejudice is transcribed by speechdocs.com. To support the show, check out our Patreon!Instagram: @podandprejudiceTwitter: @podandprejudiceFacebook: Pod and PrejudiceYoutube: Pod and PrejudiceMerch store: https://podandprejudice.dashery.com/

Podcast Show Notes: Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda Episode Title: What Are the Different Types of Scoliosis? Episode Summary: Not all scoliosis is the same. While a diagnosis of “scoliosis” can sound straightforward, the type, cause, location, and severity of the curve make a huge difference in how it should be treated. In this episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we break down the different types of scoliosis, what causes them, and how these distinctions impact treatment decisions. If you or a loved one has been told, "You have scoliosis," this episode is essential for understanding what that truly means—and why personalized care is key to long-term success. Key Topics Covered: ✅ How Scoliosis Is Diagnosed: Defined as a sideways spinal curve of 10° or more, with rotation Measured using a Cobb angle on spinal X-rays Severity Categories: Mild: 10–25° Moderate: 25–40° Severe: 40°+ Very Severe: 80°+ ✅ Types of Scoliosis Based on Cause: Idiopathic Scoliosis (80% of cases): No clear cause; most common form Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is the most typical subtype Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Secondary to conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or tethered cord Often linked to poor muscle tone or connective tissue dysfunction Congenital Scoliosis: Caused by malformations during fetal development, such as hemivertebrae Degenerative (De Novo) Scoliosis: Develops later in life due to asymmetrical spinal degeneration, often from old injuries or unresolved misalignments Traumatic Scoliosis: Caused by a severe injury, such as a fall or accident ✅ Types of Scoliosis Based on Curve Location: Cervical (Neck) Thoracic (Mid-Back) Lumbar (Lower Back) Thoracolumbar (Transitional Area) Multi-curve presentations such as double major or cervicothoracic scoliosis ✅ Why Curve Type and Cause Matter in Treatment: Treatment plans must consider: Causation (neuromuscular, congenital, idiopathic, etc.) Curve location Severity at diagnosis Age and growth stage These factors help determine whether a patient would benefit most from: Chiropractic-based conservative treatment Bracing Specialized exercises Therapy tailored to their unique curve pattern Key Takeaways: ➡️ Saying "you have scoliosis" is too vague—type, cause, and location all affect treatment strategy.➡️ Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common, but other types like neuromuscular or degenerative require very different approaches.➡️ Every scoliosis curve has the potential to progress—that's why addressing the structural problem early is essential.➡️ At Scoliosis Reduction Center, treatment plans are built around each patient's specific curve and contributing factors. Resources & Links:

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 16th Publish Date:  May 16th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, May 16th and Happy Birthday to Pierce Brosnan I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Kennesaw State students protest losing Black Studies program Cobb Commuter Routes Consolidated, Free Cumberland Loop Cut Second Annual Paws Fest is May 17-18 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass-fed beef 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: Kennesaw State students protest losing Black Studies program Dozens of Kennesaw State University students protested outside the University System of Georgia offices against the termination of KSU's Black Studies degree program, citing it as a setback for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. The university attributed the decision to declining enrollment, but critics argue the process lacked transparency and undercounted students. Demonstrators carried signs and chanted slogans emphasizing the importance of diversity. The Board of Regents, which oversees such decisions, has not addressed the issue in its upcoming meeting. DEI programs face increasing opposition at state and federal levels, including legislative efforts in Georgia to defund them. STORY 2: Cobb Commuter Routes Consolidated, Free Cumberland Loop Cut Cobb County will eliminate the free Green Circulator bus loop near The Battery and consolidate three commuter routes (100, 101, 102) into the regional 484 Xpress route due to reduced ridership and the failure of a proposed transit tax. Ridership on commuter routes has dropped 81% since 2019, prompting cost-saving measures. The changes will save over $1.1 million annually, with funds redirected to other transit needs, including the 2025 All-Star Game. The county’s deal with ATL adds seven trips to the 484 route, covering most of the same stops, though the Marietta Transfer Center will no longer be included. STORY 3: Second Annual Paws Fest is May 17-18 The Avenue of West Cobb will host its second annual Paws Fest on May 17-18, featuring exciting DockDogs canine competitions like Big Air Wave, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve. Events begin at 10 a.m. each day, with finals on May 18 at 4:30 p.m. The festival also includes pet-friendly vendors, interactive booths, grooming services, and giveaways, such as doggy ice cream treats from Bark Street Petopia. For details, visit avenuewestcobb.com. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 4: ‘A True Blessing’: New Pantry at Dunleith Fights Child Hunger Dunleith Elementary School in Marietta has opened a new food pantry, thanks to MUST Ministries and Kroger, to combat child hunger. Serving 50 families monthly, the pantry provides nonperishable food, produce, meat, diapers, and hygiene products. As a Title I school, 90% of Dunleith students receive free or reduced lunches, highlighting the need. This pantry is the fourth opened through a $207,000 Kroger-MUST partnership, which has established 18 pantries across Cobb and Cherokee counties. The initiative aims to reduce food insecurity, allowing students to focus on learning while addressing Kroger’s mission of “zero hunger, zero waste.” STORY 5: Marietta School Board Applauds Staff Support in Tentative Budget Approval The Marietta Board of Education tentatively approved a $167 million fiscal 2026 budget, a 5% increase from last year, focusing on staff raises and maintaining a flat 17.97 millage rate. The budget includes an average 3.3% raise for employees, with some reaching 6.4%, and allocates over 90% of the increase to salaries and benefits. Key allocations include $3.65 million for raises, $770,000 for new staff, and $2.6 million for insurance premium hikes. Public hearings are set for June 10 and 17, with a final vote on June 17. Additional approvals include funding for math programs, HR software, and school security. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass-fed beef We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kennesaw State University students and their supporters took to Atlanta - some 30 minutes (by car) south of their campus - Wednesday to protest KSU's announcement that they're eliminating black studies & philosophy majors outside the Georgia Board of Regents' offices. NAACP Georgia chapter president Gerald Griggs joined me to provide background & tell me what's next in the process & continued protest of this decision. ------Also in Cobb County, that school board's curious use of social media to smear "multi-family development" (you know, "density") as 'possibly contributing to to difficulties for schools.' Never mind that we live in a more transient society than ever before in this country, it seems Superintendent Chris Ragsdale is using the school board's social media to rail on the county commission for being more receptive to density housing (you know, in a housing crisis in a sprawl county attached to a metro area underserved enough by mass transit and clogged a lot by vehicles on highways and thoroughfares). Rebecca Gaunt, covering this story for the Cobb County Courier, joined me to discuss. She also covered Kennesaw's growing interest in 'ADU housing,' incidentally. ------Oooh, Marjorie Taylor Greene is 'big mad' that it's coming out her potential Senate bid got derailed by a Trump-requested poll. Friend of the show, Georgia Recorder op/ed scribe Jay Bookman opined before that story broke that a Brian Kemp/Trump conversation may have also laid the foundation for 'Taser-Greene' to be told "have a seat" by the Donald himself. Ouch. ------Finally, an announced mega-merger between two cable TV and internet behemoths prompted me to reveal a passion project I'll be launching soon.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 14th Publish Date:  May 14th    Commercial: NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, May 14th and Happy Birthday to George Lucas. ***05.14.25 - BIRTHDAY – GEORGE LUCAS*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Contributes $100k for MUST Ministries’ Cooling Center 18-year-old Charged with Bringing Knife to Marietta High Atlanta Braves to Honor USHER with Bobblehead 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Cobb Contributes $100k for MUST Ministries’ Cooling Center Cobb County commissioners voted 3-2 to allocate $108,000 to MUST Ministries for its summer cooling center, providing refuge for the homeless on days over 90°F. The funding covers food, supplies, security, and bus vouchers, with hotel stays for overflow. While Democrats supported the initiative as a proactive measure to prevent heat-related deaths, Republicans opposed it, citing concerns about government funding for nonprofits and favoritism. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid defended the decision, emphasizing the county’s responsibility to address homelessness compassionately. The funds come from Cobb’s Emergency Management budget, which also supports other emergencies like fire displacement. STORY 2: 18-year-old Charged with Bringing Knife to Marietta High Mikaya Kameron Thompson, 18, was arrested on May 2 for bringing a 6-inch Kunai knife to Marietta High School. Charged with carrying weapons in a school safety zone, she was taken into custody at 8 a.m. and remains in the Cobb County Adult Detention Center without bond. STORY 3: Atlanta Braves to Honor USHER with Bobblehead The Atlanta Braves will honor GRAMMY-winning artist Usher on June 18 at Truist Park. The first 15,000 fans will receive an exclusive Usher bobblehead featuring the iconic “Peace Up, A-Town” gesture. Pre-game celebrations in The Battery Atlanta include live music with a DJ playing Usher’s hits and a themed food truck offering dishes inspired by his songs. Usher also collaborated on a co-branded merchandise collection, available at the Braves Clubhouse Store starting that day. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the festivities. 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: Atlanta Man Charged with Damaging Safe at Carrabba’s Italian Grill Amari Diallo of Atlanta is accused of using a power hose to damage a $20,000 safe at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in the Cumberland area before quitting his job on May 3. The safe was rendered inoperable, according to the manager. Diallo faces a second-degree criminal damage charge but does not appear in jail records. STORY 5: 1885 Grill Named Cobb County's Small Business of the Year 1885 Grill in Acworth was named Cobb County's 2025 Small Business of the Year by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. Owner Michael Schroeder was recognized for overcoming challenges in the hospitality industry, opening during the pandemic and expanding to a second location in Kennesaw. Other awards included FruiTea Bubbles Café as Minority-Owned Business of the Year, The Music Studio Atlanta as Woman-Owned Business of the Year, and Essayon Construction Group as Veteran-Owned Business of the Year. The chamber also celebrated its Top 25 Small Businesses, highlighting their innovation, growth, and community contributions. Break: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 6: Mableton Man Charged with Attempted Kidnapping at School Bus Stop Seron Kennedy, 39, of Mableton, was arrested for attempting to kidnap a 12-year-old girl at a bus stop in Austell on May 5. The girl reported the incident to a school counselor, leading to a forensic interview where she provided a detailed description of Kennedy and his vehicle. Police located and arrested Kennedy, charging him with attempted kidnapping. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact Cobb Police's Crimes Against Children Unit. Parents are encouraged to discuss safety with their children, teach safety procedures, stay vigilant, and report suspicious activity. STORY 7: Marietta Student Among 2025 Graduates Recognized by WKU Academic Colleges Western Kentucky University recently celebrated its spring and summer 2025 graduates from its five academic colleges. Among the honorees was Shannon Maloney of Marietta, a dance major and Scholar of the Potter College of Arts & Letters. Maloney is also a member of the Mahurin Honors College. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com mariettagreekfestival.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you do when you find a cult in your backyard?Music: AyoPaco - LANDYRBrad Armstrong - He Come RoundSubscribe, rate, and review the show!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/porch-talk/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 9th Publish Date:  May 9th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, May 9th and Happy Birthday to Billy Joel I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Planning Commission Punts on West Cobb Senior Subdivision Cobb Grand Jury Adds Charges in Child Sex Abuse Case Against Marietta Couple Proposed West Cobb Cell Tower on hold amid Neighbor Concerns Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on medication 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: TIDWELL TREES STORY 1: Planning Commission Punts on West Cobb Senior Subdivision A proposed 120-home, age-restricted subdivision in west Cobb has been delayed another month after the Cobb County Planning Commission voted to hold off on a recommendation. The Revive Land Group plans to build ranch-style homes for residents 55+ on a 53.8-acre site near McEachern High School, featuring amenities like a pool, pickleball courts, and walking trails. While developers argue the project addresses the growing senior housing demand, neighbors raised concerns about traffic, environmental impact, and community value. A traffic study is underway, and the commission will revisit the proposal in June after further discussions with residents. STORY 2: Cobb Grand Jury Adds Charges in Child Sex Abuse Case Against Marietta Couple A Cobb grand jury has indicted Brian Deshawn Phillips, 47, and Elizabeth Anne Cooley, 24, on additional charges of child molestation and cruelty, bringing their total charges to 41. The pair allegedly molested an underage girl over two years at a Canton Road hotel and face accusations of other assaults across Cobb County. Arrested in January 2024, they’ve been held without bond. Phillips, previously convicted of child fondling in Florida, is also charged with burglary and assault. Cooley is accused of assisting in one act. Their charges include rape, trafficking, and aggravated child molestation. STORY 3: Proposed West Cobb Cell Tower on hold amid Neighbor Concerns Plans for a Verizon Wireless cell tower in a west Cobb neighborhood are delayed after residents voiced concerns about property value impacts. The Cobb County Planning Commission voted to hold the proposal until June, allowing Free Bird Communications LLC, the builder, to address community concerns. The 189-foot tower, near Lewis Elementary School, aims to improve cell coverage and emergency communication. Residents fear property devaluation and safety risks, while Free Bird argues the tower is necessary and designed to minimize impact. The commission emphasized the importance of community engagement before moving forward. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 4: Phones Away, but No Pouches: Marietta High to Test New Device Policy Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera plans a "middle ground" approach to limiting personal device use at Marietta High School without using Yondr pouches. Following feedback from staff, students, and parents, a pilot program will test alternative strategies to restrict cellphones, smartwatches, and personal laptops during instructional time. While 91% of teachers support stricter policies, some parents and students raised safety concerns. The board emphasized balancing teacher support with community input. The pilot will run through fall 2025, with results evaluated to determine next steps. Rivera aims to implement a plan by August 1 that minimizes classroom distractions while respecting all stakeholders. STORY 5: Seven Cobb Students Win National Merit Scholarships Seven Cobb County students have been awarded the prestigious 2025 National Merit $2,500 Scholarship, among 2,500 winners nationwide. Selected from over 15,000 finalists, these students demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, test scores, and community involvement. Winners include Aiden Ekanayake (Campbell High), Vipul Bansal (Walton High), Elizabeth George (Lassiter High), Mara Hanlon (Campbell High), Elizabeth Jones (Pope High), Riley Rice (Walton High), and Ryan Tan (Walton High), pursuing fields like engineering, medicine, and ecology. The scholarships can be used at any accredited U.S. college or university. Break: TOP TECH MECHANICAL And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on medication We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 7th Publish Date:  May 7th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, May 7th and Happy Birthday to Johnny Unitas ***05.07.25 - BIRTHDAY – JOHNNY UNITAS*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Pence Named President of Chattahoochee Technical College Truist Park Welcomes Chef Terry Koval Teen Killed, Two Injured in Stabbing During Large Fight at Powder Springs Kroger 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: Pence Named President of Chattahoochee Technical College Heather Pence has been named president of Chattahoochee Technical College by the Technical College System of Georgia. With over 20 years of experience at TCSG, including roles as interim president and executive VP for operations, Pence has been instrumental in supporting the college’s financial and administrative divisions. TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier praised her leadership and dedication to technical education. Pence, who began her career auditing technical colleges, expressed her passion for delivering high-quality education and workforce training. She holds an MBA from Reinhardt University and will lead Chattahoochee Tech’s nine campuses across north Georgia. STORY 2: Truist Park Welcomes Chef Terry Koval Truist Park welcomes James Beard Award-winning chef Terry Koval as the May resident chef at the Giving Kitchen stall in the Outfield Market. Known for his work at The Deer and the Dove, B-Side, and Fawn Wine and Amaro Bar, Koval will serve his signature B-Side Chopped Cheese starting May 2 during the Braves vs. Dodgers game. Fans can enjoy his culinary creations all month long. STORY 3: Teen Killed, Two Injured in Stabbing During Large Fight at Powder Springs Kroger A fight in the Brownsville Road Kroger parking lot on Sunday evening led to three stabbings, resulting in the death of 17-year-old William Renfro of Dallas, according to Powder Springs Police. The altercation involved a group, mostly juveniles, who gathered to fight. Two others were hospitalized with injuries. Markevon Williams, 17, of Powder Springs, and a juvenile have been arrested, facing charges including murder, aggravated assault, and kidnapping. The investigation is ongoing, and police urge anyone with information to contact their Criminal Investigations Unit. 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: CNC Celebrates Recognition of Henning von Schmeling The Chattahoochee Nature Center is celebrating retired horticulture curator Henning von Schmeling, who received the 2025 Tom Patrick Award from the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance. A founding GPCA member, von Schmeling spent 39 years at CNC, playing a key role in conserving Georgia’s rare plants, including saving the Georgia Rockcress from extinction and revitalizing the Alabama Leather Flower. CNC CEO Natasha Rice praised his contributions, calling the award a fitting tribute to his legacy. Now residing in Germany, von Schmeling continues his conservation work, educating his community on native plant preservation. STORY 5: Honduran Migrant Pleads Not Guilty to Murdering Cobb Grandmother Hector David Sagastume Rivas, a 21-year-old Honduran national living illegally in the U.S., pleaded not guilty to charges of murdering and raping 52-year-old Camillia Williams in Cobb County on March 12. Authorities allege Rivas caused Williams' death by choking her and applying his full body weight to her neck. Indicted on six charges, including malice murder and rape, Rivas waived his formal arraignment. Gov. Brian Kemp and federal officials have vowed to prosecute violent criminals to the fullest extent and address immigration status in such cases. Break: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 6: Elections Board Certifies Cobb Commission Special Election The Cobb County Board of Elections certified the results of the April 29 special election, restoring a full five-member Board of Commissioners with a Democratic majority. Voter turnout was 6.85%, nearly doubling February’s primary turnout. Incumbent Democratic Commissioner Monique Sheffield defeated Republican Matthew Hardwick with 64.5% of the vote, while Democrat Erick Allen won the vacant seat with 58.6% over Republican Alicia Adams. Allen was sworn in shortly after certification. Elections Director Tate Fall highlighted strong early voting turnout among Democrats, and public commenters praised the board and staff for their efforts in managing multiple elections efficiently. STORY 7: Georgia Highlands College Commencement Set for May 15 Georgia Highlands College will celebrate its graduates on May 15 with three ceremonies at the Floyd Campus gym in Rome. Events include commencements at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and a Nursing pinning ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Attendance is limited to graduates and four guests each, with GHC ID or guest passes required. Livestreams will be available on GHC’s website and social media. Featured speakers include Consul General Anat Sultan-Dadon, educator Dr. Craig McDaniel, and EVP Guy Taff. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to the Wanderlust Wealth Show! In this special episode, recorded live at the Wanderlust Wealth Retreat, host Olivia Tati sits down with the remarkable Erica Cobb. Erica, a phenomenal TV show host, podcaster, and TV personality, shares her inspiring journey from working in radio to navigating public failure, overcoming personal challenges, and ultimately achieving success on a national platform. Join us as Erica discusses the power of manifestation, the importance of consistency, dealing with public scrutiny, and the realities of navigating friendships and career paths. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or looking to pivot in life, this episode is packed with insights and tangible advice. Don't miss out on this incredible conversation! Join the free course here!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Check out the Nuuly website!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Free Masterclass: How to Buy Your First Investment Property for Less Than $25K⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Apply for Wanderlust Wealth Academy⁠⁠⁠ Book a call to see if you would be a good fit for Wanderlust Wealth Academy: ⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/theoliviatati/wanderlustwealthacademy⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about WWA here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.oliviatati.com/wwa⁠⁠⁠ Hang out with me on IG: ⁠⁠⁠@theoliviatati⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠@wanderlustwealth.show ⁠⁠⁠ Watch this episode on Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Theoliviatati/

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 2nd Publish Date:  May 2nd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, May 2nd and Happy Birthday to Dwayne Johnson 05.02.25 - BIRTHDAY – DWAYNE JOHNSON*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU Computer Science Student Honored with First President’s Award of Distinction Kennesaw Continues Outdoor Movie Series on May 17 Hundreds Gather at Cobb Prayer Breakfast to Reflect, Reconnect and Pray Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes 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: TOP TECH MECHANICAL STORY 1: KSU Computer Science Student Honored with First President’s Award of Distinction Anh Duong, a Kennesaw State University senior, has been honored as the first recipient of the President’s Award of Distinction for her academic excellence, leadership, and impactful research. Inspired by her grandparents’ struggles with diabetes, Duong has worked on innovative projects like GlucoCheck, a non-invasive glucose monitoring device, and a mental health prediction app. A first-generation college student with a 3.99 GPA, she has excelled in KSU’s Honors College and the Double Owl Pathways program. Duong credits KSU for shaping her purpose to use technology to improve lives and inspire meaningful change. STORY 2: Kennesaw Continues Outdoor Movie Series on May 17 Kennesaw’s free Outdoor Movie Series continues on May 17 at 8:15 p.m. with a showing of *The Parent Trap* at Swift-Cantrell Park. Attendees can bring blankets or low-backed chairs, while food vendors and family-friendly activities start at 6 p.m. VIP tents are available for $50, including seating and a reserved spot. Before the movie, enjoy free games like hula-hoop contests and sack races. The event coincides with the Backyard Campout, featuring stargazing, s’mores, and field activities. Campout registration is $25 for bring-your-own tents or $50 for pre-set campsites, including meals. Advance reservations are required. STORY 3: Hundreds Gather at Cobb Prayer Breakfast to Reflect, Reconnect and Pray Around 900 attendees gathered at the Cobb Galleria Centre for the 41st Annual Cobb County Prayer Breakfast on the National Day of Prayer. The event featured nondenominational worship, scripture readings, and hymns led by Linked UP Church. Keynote speaker Kevin Paul Scott, a Cobb native and leadership consultant, delivered an inspiring message centered on the idea that "If you have a pulse, you have a purpose." Sharing humorous parenting prayers and reflections on life’s meaning, Scott encouraged attendees to embrace their purpose. Local leaders, including Cobb Schools Superintendent Chris Ragsdale, emphasized the power of daily prayer and community fellowship. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 4: Judge Sonja N. Brown Honored with Justice Robert Benham Award Superior Court Judge Sonja N. Brown was honored at the 25th Annual Justice Robert Benham Awards for Community Service for her dedication to volunteerism. Serving Cobb County since January 2023, Judge Brown is active in philanthropy, including her work with the Tommy Nobis Center and Covenant House Georgia, where she raises awareness about youth homelessness. With a distinguished legal career spanning roles in DeKalb and Fulton counties, she also holds degrees from Clark Atlanta University, Duke Divinity School, and Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. Judge Brown expressed gratitude for the award and her commitment to community service. STORY 5: All Vision To Learn Summer Break 2025 Appointments Have Been Booked All 680 appointment slots for Vision To Learn’s free eye exams and glasses at nine Cobb County Public Library locations this summer were filled within a week of registration opening. Vision To Learn, a nonprofit serving children ages 5-18, has partnered with Cobb libraries since 2018, making Cobb the first in Georgia to host the program. The initiative, part of Learn4Life’s Atlanta Vision Project, aims to provide glasses to all metro Atlanta elementary students in need by 2028, with additional clinics planned across several counties this summer. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes *** INGLES ASK LEAH (DIABETES)_FINAL*** We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TIDWELL TREES 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

#165En este episodio, la abogada Barbara Vazquez del bufete de abogados de inmigración, Vazquez & Servi, P.C., contesta preguntas de los oyentes de PA'LANTE MI GENTE!Algunas preguntas contestadas entre otras:PREGUNTA: Mi papa es ciudadano americano. El hizo una petición familiar para mi hermano y su familia en el 2006. La solicitud fue aceptada. En el 2020 mi hermano se divorcio y se le notifico a inmigración sobre el divorcio. Ahora él está en la categoría F1. ¿Se puede acelerar el trámite?Si mi papa llegara a fallecer antes de que mi hermano sea llamado por inmigración, ¿que pasara con la petición familiar? PREGUNTA: Los abogados de Vazquez & Servi, P.C. pueden ayudar a los detenidos por inmigración en Texas. Mi hermano lleva 4 meses detenido. PREGUNTA: Una persona que intento arreglar por asilo político y se lo negaron, pero ahora se va a casar con una ciudadana, puede arreglar? Yo entre en el 2022 pero me negaron el asilo y ahora tengo una novia nacida aquí. PREGUNTA: Mi esposo tenía una orden de deportación de hace 14 anos cuando el estuvo en la cárcel del condado de Cobb bajo la ley 287(g) por un cargo de manejar sin licencia. Se pago la fianza, se peleo el caso y se ganó después de 11 años estando pendiente con la corte de inmigración. Ahora solo estamos en la espera que su nombre salga para que le llegue la residencia. El sábado por la mañana 8 agentes tocaron a mi puerta. Mi hija de 15 anos estaba en casa sola y no le abrió. Mi cámara de seguridad logro captar que al parecer traían una hoja con la foto de mi esposo, pero no estamos completamente seguros. Según mi abogado dice que no tenemos que porque estar andarlo buscando ya que su caso esta cerrado y si lo llegan a agarrar el puede pelear siempre y cuando no haya cometido algún delito grave. Mi temor es por las deportaciones y la rapidez en que la están haciendo. No sabemos que hacer. Aviso Importante: La información que reciben por este medio es de carácter general y no substituye una consulta formal con un abogado que se especialice en la materia de inmigración.¡Escuchen este episodio para conocer las respuestas a las preguntas variadas de nuestro radio escuchas. Escuche e informarse. Los invitamos a que se suscriban a nuestro podcast PA'LANTE MI GENTE! https://bit.ly/44krhFc

Matt and Daniel welcome Yugo, JT and Hakim from The Deprogram for a swing through Shael Ben-Efriam's sudden awakening to actual reality, followed by his immediate ejection from establishment zionist circles, and to discover whether an Israel-Palestine peace accord can be induced by an art form that's historically caused so much pain: boy band music.Please donate to the Sameer Project: https://chuffed.org/project/113222-tent-campaign-the-sameer-projectSee Matt and Francesca Fiorentini at Cobb's in San Francisco May 7: http://bit.ly/mattfrancobbsSubscribe to The Deprogram: https://thedeprogram.org/Subscribe to the Patreon https://www.patreon.com/badhasbaraSubscribe/listen to Bad Hasbara wherever you get  your podcasts.Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5RDvo87OzNLA78UH82MI55Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-hasbara-the-worlds-most-moral-podcast/id1721813926Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/bad-hasbara/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for April 30th Publish Date:  April 30th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, April 30th and Happy Birthday to Isiah Thomas ***04.30.25 - BIRTHDAY – ISIAH THOMAS*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Sheffield Sails to Victory in South Cobb Commission Race Murph's Restaurant to Close for Galleria Remodel, Future Uncertain Cobb EMC Directors Look Back on Scandal, Discuss Looming Term Limits 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: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 1: UPDATE: Sheffield Sails to Victory in South Cobb Commission Race Incumbent Commissioner Monique Sheffield secured a decisive victory over Republican challenger Matthew Hardwick, winning 64.46% of the vote to Hardwick's 35.54%, ensuring south Cobb's District 4 remains under Democratic representation. Sheffield, first elected in 2020, celebrated the win at her Mableton home and emphasized her commitment to serving all constituents, regardless of party affiliation. Her victory, alongside Democrat Erick Allen's in District 2, restores the Cobb County Commission's Democratic majority. Hardwick, the first Republican to run for the seat in years, narrowed Sheffield's early voting lead but fell short. Sheffield's next term will focus on health and wellness in her district. STORY 2: Murph's Restaurant to Close for Galleria Remodel, Future Uncertain The future of Murph’s, a restaurant and bar opened by Braves legend Dale Murphy in 2017, is uncertain as the Cobb Galleria Centre undergoes a major remodel. The Galleria’s renovation, set to begin this fall, includes demolishing the space where Murph’s is located. Initially assured they’d be part of the remodel, the Murphys were recently informed their restaurant is no longer in the plans. Despite strong community support and success, Murph’s is set to close in August. The Murphys hope to negotiate a solution in an upcoming meeting with Galleria management but are also exploring other location options near Truist Park. STORY 3: Cobb EMC Directors Look Back on Scandal, Discuss Looming Term Limits Cobb EMC has rebounded from a decade of scandal under former CEO Dwight Brown, who was accused of self-dealing and mismanagement, leaving the co-op in financial turmoil. Since then, a new board elected in 2011-2012 has transformed the organization, achieving some of the lowest electric rates in Georgia and top national reliability. However, term limits approved in 2012 mean the entire board will be replaced between 2026 and 2028, raising concerns about the loss of institutional knowledge. While directors support term limits, some suggest staggering turnover to ease transitions. The co-op remains in strong standing, with members set to elect new leadership in the coming years. 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: UPDATE: Erick Allen Wins Cobb District 2 Seat, Restores Democratic Majority on Commission Democrat Erick Allen has won the vacant District 2 seat on the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, securing 58.6% of the vote against Republican Alicia Adams' 41.4%. Allen's victory, alongside Monique Sheffield's projected win, restores the board's Democratic majority. The District 2 seat was vacated in February after Jerica Richardson's removal due to a redistricting battle. Allen emphasized unity in his victory speech, pledging to bring the fractured district together. Adams, despite her loss, highlighted her campaign's focus on giving a voice to underrepresented constituents. Allen's leadership is expected to strengthen collaboration across the county and state levels. STORY 5: 'Apples and Dump Trucks': Cobb Schools Approves Band Loan, New Scoreboard Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale defended the district’s processes after approving a $50,000 loan for Pebblebrook High School’s band uniforms and a $439,497 privately funded scoreboard for Walton High. The Pebblebrook loan, to be repaid over five years, is one of the few exceptions the district makes for extracurricular funding. Walton’s scoreboard, funded by private donations, required board approval due to its cost exceeding $200,000. Ragsdale emphasized that all projects, regardless of funding source, must follow district procedures. Board members highlighted the importance of supporting programs like Pebblebrook’s large, nationally recognized band while maintaining clear policies for funding and approvals. Break: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL STORY 6: Head of North Cobb Christian Renews 4-Year Contract Todd Clingman, head of North Cobb Christian School in Kennesaw, has renewed his contract for another four years, extending his tenure to 22 years. Clingman, who joined the 55-acre private Christian school in 2007, has been praised by Board President Todd Rainwater for his mission-driven leadership and transformative impact on the school’s community and campus. The board expressed gratitude for Clingman’s dedication to the school’s vision and values, celebrating his continued leadership as he prepares for his 18th year in the role. STORY 7: Marietta Resident Receives Outstanding Master’s Student Award Claire Warner of Marietta was honored with the Outstanding Master's Student Award from Georgia State University's College of Education & Human Development during the spring 2025 Honors Day Ceremony. The award recognizes her exceptional scholarship and clinical service in the communication sciences and disorders master's program. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: TOP TECH_FINAL 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 tidwelltrees.com toptechmech.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The institution of slavery permeated the ancient world, such that the realities of slavery and its long shadows pervade the New Testament and other early Christian texts. Yet enslavement remains an under-taught aspect of the context of the New Testament and early Christianity, leaving pastors, laypersons, and neophyte college students alike to fill knowledge gaps about enslaved persons, enslavers, living and laboring conditions, and much more with partial information, assumptions, or a range of highly technical and specialized monographs.  Ancient Slavery and Its New Testament Contexts (Eerdmans, 2025), co-edited by Christy Cobb and Katherine A. Shaner, takes on these issues, introducing readers to the textures, complexities, and material realities of slavery in the Greco-Roman world. International scholars with a range of expertise, from New Testament and early Christian studies to classics, theology, ethics, and more, contribute to a tapestry of introductory themes, topics, and interpretive frameworks with a wealth of literary, inscriptional, pictorial, and theoretical evidence from the material culture of Roman antiquity in this significant volume. Dr. Cobb and Dr. Shaner joined the New Books Network to initiate important conversations that they hope will continue in religious studies classrooms, schools of theology and divinity, and local church small group settings. Christy Cobb (Ph.D., Drew University, 2016) is Associate Professor of Christianity at the University of Denver. She is the author of Slavery, Gender, Truth and Power in Luke-Acts and Other Ancient Narratives (Palgrave Macmillan, 2019) and has also co-edited a volume entitled Sex, Violence, and Early Christian Texts (Lexington Books, 2022). Dr. Cobb is also a member of the editorial board for the Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion, and her research and teaching interests include slavery, gender, sexuality, Acts, and Apocryphal Acts. In her recreational time, Christy enjoys reading novels, crafts, and spending time with her nine-year-old son in Denver. Katherine A. Shaner (Th.D., Harvard University Divinity School, 2012) is Associate Professor of New Testament at the Wake Forest University School of Divinity. She is the author of Enslaved Leadership in Early Christianity (Oxford University Press, 2018) as well as numerous articles on slavery in the New Testament. Dr. Shaner is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and regularly preaches and teaches in churches around the United States. In her free time, Katherine enjoys hiking in the mountains, reading historical fiction, cooking dinner for friends and spending time with snuggly dogs. Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This week we watched the classic 1999 thriller The Talented Mr. Ripley, starring Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, and the amazing Philip Seymour Hoffman. It's like Liar Liar but with more murder!Tune in next week when our movie will be... The Land Before Time.-----Get our merch at https://maxfunstore.com/Emily Fleming has a NEW SHOW available right now on Mythical Society called "Emily, Have You Seen This?" and you should see this!Matt Lieb and Francesca Fiorentini will be in San Francisco at Cobb's Comedy Club on May 7th! Buy tickets here! Jordan Morris appearances and dates!4/26 - Peninsula Libraries Comic and Arts Fest, Library Parks and Recreation Center South San Francisco.4/30 - Collectors paradise North Hollywood. 5-7pm , Nicole Goux and Gabriel Hardman5/2 - Litfest in the Dena Pasadena Presbetarian Church 6:30pm - 7:30pm with Yehudi Mercado, Sara Phoebe Miller, Eliot Kalan5/3 - Things from another world Universal Citywalk - 2-4pm5/10- Mission Comics in SF with Briana Lowenson.