Podcasts about cobb county

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 29th Publish Date:  August 29th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, August 29th and Happy Birthday to Richard Attenborough I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Former hotel near Six Flags converted to housing for homeless vets Marietta advances Cherokee Street widening plan Cobb approves road safety measures after 12-year-old hit by car Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: Former hotel near Six Flags converted to housing for homeless vets What was once a run-down hotel near Six Flags is now a lifeline for 88 homeless veterans. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation officially opened its Atlanta Veterans Village this week, turning the old Wingate into permanent housing with on-site support services. The building, now fully renovated, offers furnished apartments, PTSD treatment, job help, and even an AI assistant named “Kathleen.” Veterans will pay no more than 30% of their income in rent. STORY 2: Marietta advances Cherokee Street widening plan  The Marietta City Council is pushing ahead with plans to widen Cherokee Street, but forget the roundabouts—they’re not happening. The project, which will add a third lane from Chicopee Drive to Vann Street, started with three options. Public Works Director Mark Rice laid them out: one plan realigns the intersection at Canton Road, another adds a single roundabout, and the third proposes two roundabouts. The council’s Public Works Committee agreed. They’re sticking with the realignment plan, estimated at $7.8 million, and aiming to start within three years. STORY 3: Cobb approves road safety measures after 12-year-old hit by car   After a tragic accident left a 12-year-old boy with life-altering injuries, Cobb County is taking action. The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $146,966 contract to improve safety near Davis Elementary School, where Preston Veal was hit by a van in June while crossing Jamerson Road. The plan? Realign traffic lanes and install a flashing beacon at the intersection. The community has been pushing for change—703 people signed a petition demanding safer crossings. Work is set to begin soon, with completion expected in 60 days. 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 Markets 6 STORY 4: Marietta ethics complaint ban tabled ahead of November election A plan to ban ethics complaints during election season? Tabled—for now. The City Council’s Judicial Legislative Committee, led by Councilwoman Cheryl Richardson, hit pause on the controversial proposal this week. Mayor Steve Tumlin, who vetoed the amendment earlier, had strong words. Meanwhile, other council business rolled on: adding two school resource officers, renewing the Stop Arm safety program, and debating higher booting fees for big rigs. Speed studies? Also on the agenda. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Aug. 29 - 31 Marietta’s keeping the Labor Day vibes alive with the 39th annual Art in the Park Festival this weekend. From Saturday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Glover Park will be buzzing with 175 artists, live music, and even a kids’ art alley for the little Picassos. Oh, and it’s free. Details? Check the festival’s website. Need a laugh? “Comedy on the Square” hits the Alley Stage Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $27—grab them online or at the door. Farmers markets? Mableton’s Epic Market runs all weekend, and Smyrna’s Handmade Market is Sunday. Fresh produce, artisan goods, and good vibes await. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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.

A 32-game losing streak shattered—now South Cobb is chasing a win streak. In this week’s Cobb Football Friday, Brian Giffin and John Bednarowski break down the biggest stories from Week 3, including McEachern’s national ranking rise, Sprayberry’s comeback thriller, and Kel’s quiet dominance. From standout players like Cooper Buzarski and Chris Carbon to rivalry rematches and region play kickoffs, it’s a full slate of high school football action across Cobb County. Tune in for insights, surprises, and what to watch heading into Week 4. Cobb Football Friday Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cobb Football Friday02:04 Highlights from Last Week's Games05:47 Team Performances and Player Spotlights09:50 Upcoming Matchups and Predictions14:00 Community and Cultural Impact of High School Football17:45 Closing Thoughts and Future GamesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 27th Publish Date:  August 27th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, August 27th and Happy Birthday to Paul Reuben I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Root House hosts annual Harvest Dinner to support historic home Cobb County customers react to Cracker Barrel makeover Suspect in Strand Theatre vandalism identified All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: Root House hosts annual Harvest Dinner to support historic home The William Root House is gearing up for its annual Harvest Dinner on Sept. 13, and honestly, it’s like stepping back in time—fried chicken, garden veggies, and all. Built in 1845, the Root House is Marietta’s oldest home, though there’s a twist: researchers think parts of it might predate that. Trevor Beemon, Cobb Landmarks’ executive director, said they’re working with University of West Georgia students to analyze timber samples. Tree rings don’t lie, apparently. The Roots, Marietta’s first druggist family, lived there until 1866. Now, it’s a museum—and a perfect spot for Southern-style dinners under the stars. Proceeds? They keep the lights on. STORY 2: Cobb County customers react to Cracker Barrel makeover  Cracker Barrel’s new minimalist logo has stirred up a storm, with some customers calling it progress and others calling it a betrayal. Gone is the man leaning on a barrel—“Uncle Herschel,” a nod to the founder’s family. The redesign, paired with brighter, sleeker interiors, has left longtime fans divided. Meanwhile, Cracker Barrel’s stock has dropped 10%, and the debate rages on. STORY 3: Suspect in Strand Theatre vandalism identified The Marietta Police say they’ve identified the person who broke the Strand Theatre’s box office window early Saturday morning. No charges, though—not yet. “We’ve spoken to the suspect,” said police spokesman Aaron Wright. “The Strand isn’t pressing charges at this time. He was interviewed and released.” The theater, meanwhile, is staying positive. In a statement, they said they’re still open and committed to being a safe, welcoming space for the community. And that’s that, for now. No drama, no arrests—just a broken window and, hopefully, a lesson learned. 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: 'A slap in the face': Cobb to weigh funding request for veterans memorial  After nearly 10 years of planning, the Cobb Veterans Memorial is still stuck in limbo, and Tuesday’s vote by the Cobb County Board of Commissioners might be its last shot at breaking ground. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell is pushing for $1 million from excess SPLOST funds to help close the gap on the now $5 million project. But support? It’s thin. Birrell says her fellow commissioners aren’t on board, and she’s frustrated. The memorial, promised in 2015, has ballooned in cost from $2.5 million to nearly $8 million. Veterans are waiting. Time’s running out. STORY 5: MetroAtlanta Ambulance CEO to Lead Cobb Chamber Pete Quinones, the founder and CEO of MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service, has been named the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s chairman for 2027. The announcement came Monday, with Quinones set to follow Melissa Cantrell, CEO of CDH Partners, who will serve as chair in 2026. Quinones started his ambulance service in Marietta with one vehicle and four employees. Now? Over 800 employees, 200 vehicles, and a million residents served. Sharon Mason, Cobb Chamber CEO, called him a “steadfast leader” with a vision for growth. Break: STORY 6: A world of flavor and culture comes to Cobb County  Music, laughter, and the mouthwatering aroma of global cuisine filled the air at Cobb County’s International Festival on Saturday. Since 2019, the festival has celebrated the county’s rich diversity, said Adriana Helenek, Cobb’s Hispanic and Latin American liaison. “This year, we’ve got over 10 consulates, food, performances, kids’ activities—it’s all about showing how beautifully diverse Cobb is,” she said. Outside, food trucks served everything from Jamaican jerk to Filipino lumpia. Inside, vendors sold African Ankara fabrics, handmade jewelry, and even crystals (courtesy of Cobb DA Sonya Allen, a self-proclaimed “rock nerd”). STORY 7: New park to honor Vinings folk artist A new pocket park in Vinings will soon honor the vibrant legacy of folk artist Nellie Mae Rowe. Set to open in November, the 1,600-square-foot park will sit at 2857 Paces Ferry Road, where Rowe’s “playhouse” once stood—a home she transformed into a living, breathing work of art. Scrap steel benches, crushed glass walkways, and sculptures by local artist Alan Peterson will reflect her upcycling spirit. Born in 1900 to a blacksmith and seamstress, Rowe’s journey from Fayette County farm fields to celebrated artist is nothing short of inspiring. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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.

An anonymous AI-skilled cartoonist (allegedly) sent a Cobb County defense attorney this 16-page comic - depicting newly elected district attorney Sonya Allen as a clown. That elicited a response from Cobb County Democratic Party chair Essence Johnson, labeling the comic "Jim Crow–era propaganda once used to diminish Black leadership."For some reason, the Cobb GOP chair, Mary Clarice Hathaway, decided to jump in with a long list of easily refutable nonsense. Essence Johnson joined the show to explain what on Earth this back-and-forth squabble is about. You should note, however, Megan Webb Grout is out with a new uh, "donated" cartoon "sent" to her (anonymously, of course) where said cartoonist at least dialed back the clown caricaturizing.

Rain delays, breakout stars, and fierce rivalries—Week 2 of Cobb County high school football had it all. Join hosts Brian Giffin and John Bednarowski as they break down standout performances from Kel, McEachern, and Lassiter, preview key matchups like North Cobb vs. McEachern, and spotlight rising talents like Casey Barner and Cooper Buzarski. From thrilling wins to coaching changes, this episode of Cobb Football Friday delivers everything you need to know heading into another action-packed weekend. Visit us at www.mdjonline.com/sports/ Chapters 00:00 Kickoff to Week Two: Recap and Insights07:52 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Games and PredictionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 20th Publish Date: August 20th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, August 20th and Happy Birthday to Issac Hayes I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. KMHS drama program wins Disney School of Excellence Award 2. Suspect charged with snatching $5,000 Rolex from Town Center mall jeweler 3. Sheriff’s office recognizes cadets for heroic actions following wreck All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 3 STORY 1: KMHS drama program wins Disney School of Excellence Award “Every day, I get to do what I love with some of the most incredible students I could ever ask for,” said Dawn Parker, Kennesaw Mountain High’s Director of Theatre. “Their dedication—on stage and behind the scenes—is unmatched, and any recognition they get is so well-deserved.” KMHS Drama was just named one of 21 winners in the Disney on Broadway School of Excellence Program, a national honor recognizing creativity, leadership, and student engagement in theatre. Their production of Alice in Wonderland Jr. will showcase not just acting but student-led set design, tech, and choreography. STORY 2: Suspect charged with snatching $5,000 Rolex from Town Center mall jeweler Jason Adam Warren, a Lithonia resident, is accused of swiping a $5,000 white gold, diamond-encrusted Rolex DateJust from Shine Jewelers at Town Center mall. According to the Cobb County Police warrant, Warren walked in on May 22 around 10:40 a.m., chatted with an employee, and asked to see the watch. The moment it was handed over—still in its display box—he bolted. One second he’s admiring it, the next he’s gone, leaving the employee shouting behind the counter, unable to chase him. Warren faces a robbery snatch charge, though, as of now, he’s not listed in jail records. STORY 3: Sheriff’s office recognizes cadets for heroic actions following wreck Two Cobb County public safety cadets didn’t hesitate when they saw a crash unfold on Macland Road on Aug. 2. Cadet Capt. Aiden Decastro, a Georgia Cyber Academy student, and Field Training Officer Cadet Alexander Rodas, from McEachern High, were heading home from dinner at Marietta Diner when they spotted the wreck. An infant car seat lay in the middle of the intersection. Decastro called 911, moved people away from an oil spill, and cradled the crying baby. Rodas comforted an injured passenger, helping her stay calm. 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: COBB INT. FESTIVAL STORY 4: Residents clash over fairness, transparency at Cobb elections meeting Monday’s Cobb Board of Elections meeting was packed—standing room only. The crowd? A mix of praise, frustration, and plenty of opinions about last month’s officer elections and new board appointments. Here’s the gist: the board elected a new chair and vice chair in a 3-1-1 vote, sparking debate. Debbie Fisher, a GOP appointee, called it “unfair,” while outgoing chair Tori Silas abstained. Jennifer Mosbacher, a Democrat appointee, now leads as chair, with Stacy Efrat as vice chair. Fisher proposed a bylaw amendment to prevent future mid-transition elections, but the board tabled it—unanimously—for next month. The tension? Palpable. STORY 5: Cobb jail inmate caught with synthetic drug hidden in book, authorities say Joseph George Cruz, 30, of Marietta, is facing some serious charges after allegedly sneaking synthetic drugs into the Cobb County Jail. According to a warrant, Cruz had just been transported back from Fulton County Jail on Aug. 27 when officers found the drugs—hidden in a book he brought with him. Field tests confirmed it was K2, a synthetic drug. Cruz reportedly told authorities the stash was worth $10,000 and that he planned to sell it to inmates in his dorm. He’s now charged with multiple felonies and remains in custody without bond, with a detainer hold in place. Break: STORY 6: Cobb County property tax bills issued, due by Oct. 15 Cobb Tax Commissioner Carla Jackson announced that property tax bills for 2025 are officially out, following approval of the county’s tax digest by the Georgia Department of Revenue. The deadline? Oct. 15. Payments need to be received—or at least postmarked—by then to avoid late fees. Jackson gave a shoutout to the teams behind the scenes—Tax Assessors, IT, Finance, and more—for pulling it all together. “Their collaboration made this possible,” she said. This year’s digest includes 271,757 bills totaling over $1.36 billion. You can pay online, by phone, mail, or in person. Questions? Email tax@cobbtax.gov or call 770-528-8600. STORY 7: Austell man accused of illegal dumping Aries Maliah Jordan, from Austell, is accused of tossing more than 10 pounds of household trash onto the property at Premier Apartments on Premier Lane. It happened around 7 p.m. on Aug. 12, according to a Cobb County Police warrant. The charge? Illegal dumping. Details are slim—why there, why then?—but the warrant paints a messy picture. As of now, Jordan doesn’t show up in jail records. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 3 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ● www.ingles-markets.com 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 August 15th Publish Date:  August 15th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, August 15th and Happy Birthday to Joe Jonas I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 39th Annual Marietta Art in the Park is Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 Marietta school board eyes AI guidelines in new technology plan Cobb officers recognized after saving children from 117-degree car Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Food Apps All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 1: 39th Annual Marietta Art in the Park is Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 For three days over Labor Day weekend, Marietta Square transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity for the 39th annual Art in the Park festival. With over 200 fine artists, live music, kids’ activities, and even chalk art, it’s a can’t-miss event for art lovers and families alike. The Artist Market will feature works in every medium imaginable: oil, acrylic, pottery, jewelry, photography, and more. Artists will be on-site to chat about their process, and the beloved Painted Pots display returns with its stunning ceramic creations. For kids (and the young at heart), the Chalk Spot street art experience is back, hosted by Marietta High School’s Visual Arts Program and GPB. On Aug. 30, kids can claim a three-foot square of pavement for $10 and create their own masterpiece. Supplies and fair tickets are included while they last. Families can also explore Children’s Art Alley, packed with free crafts and games, plus face painting and sand art for a small fee. Hungry? Marietta Square’s restaurants will be open, and Glover Park Brewing will serve cold brews. Live music at the gazebo, sponsored by the North Georgia State Fair, will keep the energy high—bring a blanket or chair to relax and enjoy. The festival runs Aug. 30–Sept. 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Parking is available at Marietta City Hall and nearby lots. For details, visit artparkmarietta.com. STORY 2: Marietta school board eyes AI guidelines in new technology plan The Marietta Board of Education is mulling over a new tech plan for 2025-2028, and it’s got some big ideas—AI guidelines, faster internet, and better tools for teachers. Jennifer Hernandez, the district’s academic achievement director, summed it up: “It’s about using tech to support teachers, not replace them.” The plan, shaped by feedback from teachers, parents, and community members, focuses on three areas: infrastructure, access, and support. Infrastructure? Think faster internet, updated equipment, and federal E-rate funding to keep it all running. “We don’t want to fall behind,” said tech director Torey Bradley. Access includes making learning platforms like Schoology easier to use and figuring out how to teach students and staff to use AI responsibly. Support will include a new professional learning hub with bite-sized training videos and resources for teachers and parents. The board plans to vote on the plan at its next meeting. STORY 3: Cobb officers recognized after saving children from 117-degree car  Cobb Police officers were recognized at the Georgia Capitol this week for saving two kids trapped in a sweltering car. On June 4, in the Cumberland Mall parking lot, bystanders spotted a boy and girl locked inside a vehicle and called 911. Officers arrived fast, smashed a window, and pulled the kids out. The car’s internal temperature? A staggering 117 degrees—on an 87-degree day. Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp commended the officers for their heroic actions. “This is what happens when citizens and officers work together,” the department shared on Facebook. The children’s guardian, J’quawn Dixon, was arrested and charged with leaving them in the car for 41 minutes without air conditioning. 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: COBB INT. FESITVAL STORY 4: Oregon Park to get new restroom, pickleball courts Oregon Park’s getting a serious glow-up, with $850,000 in upgrades greenlit by the Cobb Board of Commissioners. The unanimous vote tapped into Commissioner Keli Gambrill’s capital contingency fund—each commissioner gets $1 million for district projects. Gambrill called the improvements a “huge, huge impact.” What’s coming? Better ADA access, a much-needed extra restroom (parents, rejoice), and four new pickleball courts to add to the existing six. “Pickleball’s booming,” Gambrill said. The park, already a hotspot with baseball fields, tennis courts, and disc golf, sees over 13,000 kids for baseball alone. No timeline yet—officials are still ironing out details with the contractor. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Aug. 15 - 17 Get ready for a packed weekend, folks—there’s something for everyone. First up, the Pigs and Peaches BBQ Festival is back in downtown Kennesaw this Friday and Saturday. Think smoky barbecue, live music, and all the good vibes at Depot Park. Admission? Free. But if you want to taste-test the BBQ, snag a ticket—$21 in advance, $25 day-of. Friday runs 6–10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Prefer disco over ribs? The Cobb Energy Centre hosts “The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA” Friday at 8 p.m. Expect all the hits—“Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia”—and maybe some seat-dancing. Tickets start at $57. For indie fans, D4VD hits the Coca-Cola Roxy Friday night on his “Withered World Tour.” Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8. Tickets? $54. Want something low-key? Cobb County PARKS wraps up its summer series Friday at The Art Place in Marietta with End of the Line, a bluegrass band. Gates open at 6 p.m., and it’s free—just bring a blanket and a picnic. And don’t miss the Smyrna Handmade Market on Sunday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., with 60+ vendors selling everything from local honey to handmade soaps. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Food Apps We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 2 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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.

Is Cobb County ready for a football season packed with powerhouse teams and rising stars? Cobb Football Friday kicks off with in-depth previews of top contenders like Kel, North Cobb, and Sprayberry, plus insights into new coaching hires and a spotlight on Mount Bethel’s varsity debut. Hosts Brian Giffin and John Bednarowski break down key matchups, standout players, and bold predictions for the 2025 season. From five-star recruits to underdog stories, this episode sets the tone for a thrilling high school football journey. Visit us at www.mdjonline.com/sports/ Chapters 00:00 Kickoff to Cobb Football Friday02:53 Previewing the Season: Key Teams and Players05:44 Coaching Changes and Their Impact09:03 Emerging Programs and New Beginnings11:56 Game Previews: Week One Matchups24:05 Looking Ahead: The Season's PotentialSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 13th Publish Date: August 13th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, August 13th and Happy Birthday to Mark Lemke I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Kennesaw man suspected in CDC shooting reportedly fixated on COVID vaccine Cyclists celebrate Cobb Silver Comet extension Cobb Young Professionals names Next Generation Award winners All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 1 STORY 1: Kennesaw man suspected in CDC shooting reportedly fixated on COVID vaccine Mourners gathered outside the CDC’s Atlanta headquarters Monday, leaving flowers, balloons, and handwritten notes at a makeshift memorial for Officer David Rose, who was killed in Friday’s shooting. A large cardboard sign with Rose’s photo was covered in messages—“Thank you for your service,” “You’re a hero.” DeKalb officers R.E. Ramsey and J. Nelson, who worked with Rose, stopped by to pay their respects. “He was just a great person,” Nelson said quietly. The shooting unfolded Friday afternoon when Patrick Joseph White, 30, of Kennesaw, opened fire near the CDC campus. White, reportedly distraught over his dog’s death and blaming the COVID vaccine for his depression, tried to enter the CDC but was stopped by security. He then drove to a nearby CVS and began shooting. Officer Rose, a Marine veteran and father of two with another child on the way, responded to the call. He was critically injured and later died at Grady Memorial Hospital. The CDC, Emory University, and local law enforcement have increased security measures in the wake of the attack. Meanwhile, a GoFundMe for Rose’s family has raised over $235,000. The investigation continues, with the GBI calling the scene “complex” and evidence collection ongoing. STORY 2: Cyclists celebrate Cobb Silver Comet extension The Silver Comet Trail was alive with energy Saturday as hundreds of cyclists hit the pavement to celebrate the long-awaited trail extension and raise awareness for multiple sclerosis. The new 2.1-mile Silver Comet Connector, funded by the PATH Foundation, links Cobb County to Atlanta, weaving through East-West Connector, Plant Atkinson Road, and along Atlanta Road to the Chattahoochee River. It’s a big step toward a dream: a continuous path connecting Atlanta to Alabama. Riders gathered at the Floyd Road Trailhead, led by Mableton Councilwoman Patricia Auch, while Team Noodle—a group raising funds for MS research—started their 17.5-mile trek from Atlanta. Volunteers greeted riders with water, bananas, and goodie bags at the finish, while Cobb County leaders celebrated the milestone. “It’s the future,” Auch said. “When it’s fully connected, it’s going to be incredible.” For Roberta Cook, who’s spent 20 years advocating for this extension, the day was emotional. “I’m just so glad I lived to see it,” she said. Cyclist Cecelia Saxon summed it up: “The camaraderie, the exercise, the trees—it’s all just beautiful.” STORY 3: Cobb Young Professionals names Next Generation Award winners Cobb Young Professionals announced Adam Ross and Natalie DeLancey as the 2025 Next Generation Award winners on Monday—and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Ross, who’s been with the Cumberland CID for six years, has done everything from securing millions in state funding for a pedestrian bridge to launching One Cumberland, a nonprofit expanding the district’s mission. “He’s shaping Cobb’s future,” said Chamber spokeswoman Amy Selby. DeLancey, meanwhile, runs the City Springs Theatre Company, pulling off a $3 million budget and reaching 50,000 patrons annually. Oh, and her students? They’ve snagged $10.5 million in scholarships this year alone. For more, check out cobbchamber.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: COBB INT. FESTIVAL STORY 4: Man charged with burglary after entering school with knife, drug paraphernalia Dusty Gene Beals, from Eatonton, is facing some serious charges after allegedly breaking into Pebblebrook High School in the middle of the night—1:04 a.m. on Aug. 5, to be exact. According to a Cobb County Police warrant, Beals was caught with a folding knife (blade over two inches) and a glass pipe typically used for smoking meth. He’s now charged with second-degree burglary, having a weapon on school property, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Oddly enough, his name doesn’t show up in jail records, leaving a few unanswered questions about his whereabouts. STORY 5: Loudermilk, McBath talk Trump at chamber luncheon Monday’s Cobb Chamber luncheon brought U.S. Reps. Lucy McBath and Barry Loudermilk to the stage—separately, of course—to share their starkly different takes on the Trump administration. McBath, speaking first, didn’t hold back. She slammed federal funding cuts to gun violence prevention programs, calling them part of a “wider rollback” that’s hurting communities. As a mother who lost her son to gun violence, her words carried weight. She also criticized Trump’s tariffs and healthcare policies, calling his second term chaotic. Loudermilk, on the other hand, praised Trump’s vision of a “golden era” for America, rooted in what he called “American exceptionalism.” He compared it to the Wright brothers’ era—bold, innovative, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Loudermilk emphasized smaller government and individual rights as the key to a thriving economy. Two lawmakers, two visions—one room full of opinions. Break: STORY 6: Atlanta Ballet to have Balanchine & Peck The Atlanta Ballet is kicking off its 2025-26 season with Balanchine & Peck, a stunning mixed-rep performance that blends the timeless genius of George Balanchine with the fresh, modern creativity of Justin Peck. Running Sept. 12-14 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, the program features three works: the romantic Emeralds, the bold and abstract In Creases, and the iconic Prodigal Son. Artistic Director Gennadi Nedvigin, celebrating his 10th season, calls it the perfect opener. “Prodigal Son is deeply personal to me—it’s the role that changed my career,” he shared. Tickets are available at atlantaballet.com or the venue box office. STORY 7: Man accused of attacking officer with steel pipe at Marietta Hilton Joseph Wilhoit, 33, of Marietta, is facing some serious charges after a chaotic encounter with police on Aug. 6 at the Hilton Atlanta Marietta Hotel. According to the arrest warrant, things escalated fast. When an officer informed Wilhoit he had warrants and was under arrest, he didn’t go quietly—he pulled away, grabbed a six-foot steel pipe, and swung it at the officer. He missed, thankfully, but the two wrestled for several minutes before Wilhoit finally let go of the pipe. After his arrest, officers found 10 grams of meth in his pocket. Wilhoit remains in custody, charged with aggravated assault, obstruction, and drug possession. No bond. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 1 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com 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: ingles-markets.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 8th Publish Date:  August 8th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, August 8th and Happy Birthday to Roger Federer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Charges dropped against man accused in Cobb Walmart kidnapping case Cobb hosts annual night of unity between residents and public safety officials Traffic stop in Austell leads to meth trafficking charges Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Charges dropped against man accused in Cobb Walmart kidnapping case After months of stress, accusations, and uncertainty, Mahendra Patel is finally free. On Wednesday, prosecutors dropped all charges against the Cobb County man, who had been accused of attempting to kidnap a toddler at a north Cobb Walmart back in March. Patel, who spent 45 days in jail and lost 17 pounds surviving on bread and peanut butter, called the ordeal “a punishment in itself.” His mugshot? Still everywhere. His reputation? Shattered. But now, at least, he can breathe. Surveillance footage, which Patel’s attorney Ashleigh Merchant said was key to clearing his name, showed Patel briefly interacting with the child’s mother, Caroline Miller, while searching for Tylenol. What prosecutors initially called an attempted kidnapping was, in Patel’s words, “a misunderstanding blown out of proportion.” A Change.org petition supporting Patel gathered over 92,000 signatures, and even inmates who once threatened him apologized after reading about his case. STORY 2: Cobb hosts annual night of unity between residents and public safety officials Badges, block parties, and a whole lot of community spirit filled Jim Miller Park for Cobb County’s National Night Out. Since 1984, this nationwide event has been all about building bridges between public safety officers and the people they serve. And on Tuesday night? It was all smiles, dunk tanks, and even axe throwing. Families wandered through booths from the Cobb Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, 911 dispatchers, and more. Kids laughed, parents asked questions, and stuffed K-9 toys were sold to support the real-life furry officers. For Zanetia Henry, the night was personal. After losing her son Dre to gun violence in 2019, she’s dedicated herself to uniting communities through her nonprofit, Operation Recovery. “Unity takes everyone,” she said, presenting awards to officers who’ve gone above and beyond. Cobb Police Capt. Jason Best, reflecting on his 28 years of service, said it best: “We usually see people at their worst. Tonight, we get to just talk—no tickets, no arrests. Just people connecting.” STORY 3: Traffic stop in Austell leads to meth trafficking charges  Jack Randall Roberts, 68, and Justin Daniell Roberts, 30, both from Gay, Georgia, were arrested on July 31 after police allegedly found them with about a kilogram of methamphetamine. It all went down around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Garrett Road and C.H. James Parkway in Austell. Jack, driving a 2008 Ford Focus, reportedly stopped too far past the stop line—an innocent enough mistake, right? Except during the traffic stop, officers discovered the drugs, according to the warrant. Both men were booked into the Cobb County jail that evening. No bond. No release. Just a whole lot of trouble. 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: COBB INT. FESITVAL STORY 4: Expect lane closures as Atlanta Gas Light begins major pipeline work Atlanta Gas Light is gearing up to kick off the Wade Green Road Phase II Pressure Improvement Project this month—a big deal for Cobb and Cherokee counties. The plan? Lay down 5.5 miles of new natural gas pipeline. Construction crews will be working near Moon Station Road, Baker Road, Woodstock Road, and Highway 92, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heads up: expect lane closures and some traffic headaches through late 2025, with cleanup stretching into spring 2026. The city says the project will boost system reliability during high demand and create jobs. Got questions? Check out atlantagaslight.com or email wadegreen@southernco.com. STORY 5: Community Colleges of Appalachia sign transfer agreement with WGU Leaders from Community Colleges of Appalachia (CCA) and Western Governors University (WGU) just inked a deal that could be a game-changer for Appalachian students. The agreement lets residents earn WGU’s accredited online degrees and certificates without leaving their hometowns—no uprooting, no long commutes. CCA, with 85 member colleges from Mississippi to New York (including five in Georgia), is all about serving local communities. This partnership? It’s about making higher education more accessible. Graduates and employees of CCA schools can transfer credits to WGU, skip redundant coursework, and even apply for $3,000 Learn Where You Live Scholarships. WGU’s flexible, competency-based programs—spanning business, tech, healthcare, and education—are designed for busy lives. Tuition? About $4,000 per six-month term, and students can tackle as many courses as they’re ready for. For details, check out ccofapp.org or wgu.edu. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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.

Top Stories for August 2nd Publish Date: August 2nd From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, August 2nd and Happy Birthday to Carroll O’Connor I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. State obtains indictment against Cobb County clerk Study says Dacula is one of America's five safest suburbs, Buford also in top 10 Georgia Power seeking certification of new energy projects Plus, the Stripers report with JR Ritchie, starter in the MLB All-Star Futures Game and the Braves’ No. 2 prospect All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! ---------------------- Break 1: 07.14.22 KIA MOG ---------------------- STORY 1: State obtains indictment against Cobb County clerk  Cobb County Court Clerk Connie Taylor was indicted Thursday, accused of ordering the destruction of government emails and financial records in 2022. The charges? Two counts each of destroying public records and violating her oath of office. The allegations stem from an open records request in October 2022. Taylor allegedly told an employee to delete the documents. Calls to Taylor’s office Thursday? Dodged. One staffer even forwarded a call to a local newspaper. The GBI and Carr’s White Collar and Cyber Crime Unit presented evidence to a grand jury, leading to the indictment. For now, Taylor is presumed innocent, but the case has echoes of a 2019 conviction Carr secured against a former Atlanta press secretary for delaying open records. Transparency, it seems, remains a battle. STORY 2: Study says Dacula is one of America's five safest suburbs, Buford also in top 10 If you live in Dacula or Buford, you’ve got bragging rights—both suburbs just ranked among the safest in America, according to a new study by SmartAsset. Dacula snagged the No. 5 spot, with Buford right behind at No. 6. Not bad, right? The study looked at everything from violent and property crime rates to traffic deaths, drug overdoses, and even excessive drinking. Dacula’s numbers? Just 0.0017 violent crimes per capita and 0.0062 property crimes. Buford wasn’t far off, but Dacula edged it out. Both cities tied in other categories, like traffic deaths (9.34 per 100,000) and overdose rates. Oh, and housing? Dacula’s median monthly cost is $1,547, while Buford’s is a bit lower at $1,300. Georgia had a few other cities in the rankings—Canton at No. 20, Acworth at 63—but Dacula and Buford are clearly leading the pack. STORY 3: Georgia Power seeking certification of new energy projects Georgia Power is making big moves, asking state regulators to greenlight nearly 10,000 megawatts of new energy projects. That’s a lot of power—enough to keep millions of homes and businesses running, no matter the weather. Most of it—about 8,000 megawatts—comes from projects already approved in 2022, including natural gas plants, solar paired with batteries, and standalone battery storage systems. Another 1,886 megawatts comes from this year’s plans, with similar projects in the mix. But not everyone’s thrilled. Environmental groups argue the new gas turbines double down on fossil fuels instead of pushing harder for renewables. Still, Georgia Power is leaning into battery storage, with projects underway in Bibb, Lowndes, Floyd, and Cherokee counties—and more on the way. The PSC will hold hearings this fall, with a final vote in December. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back ---------------------- Break 2: Ingles Markets ---------------------- STRIPERS INTERVIEW STORY 6: GCPS Community-Based Mentoring Program seeking volunteers The Gwinnett County Public Schools Community-Based Mentoring Program is on the hunt for 200 volunteers to step up and mentor students during the 2025-26 school year. Now in its 16th year, the program has already made a huge impact—last year alone, it supported over 2,550 students in grades 4-12. “It was one of our best years yet,” says James Rayford, the program’s director. They reached every high school, middle school, and all 20 clusters, with a 100% graduation rate for two years running. This year? They’re aiming even higher, adding job-shadowing and internships to the mix. The idea is simple but powerful: one caring adult can change a child’s life. Volunteers can mentor one-on-one or in small groups, helping students build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of belonging. STORY 7: Beyond the classroom: GGC interns gain invaluable real-world experience Summer internships aren’t just résumé fluff—they’re where classroom theory meets the messy, unpredictable real world. For Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) students, it’s a chance to figure out what they love (or don’t) and grow in ways they didn’t expect. Take Kimberly Ramirez, a senior marketing major. “I thought marketing was just ads and social media,” she admits. Turns out, it’s strategy, planning, and making decisions that actually matter. Her internship at InTouch Financial Group? A game-changer. She even runs bilingual webinars—Marketing Monday—teaching agents how to market themselves. Then there’s Joceyln Rubio-Camacho, a finance major. Forget the cubicle stereotype. At Majors Management, she’s learned accounting is as much about people as it is spreadsheets. For cinema major Tony Arreaga, interning at Crazy Legs Production in Atlanta has been a whirlwind. One day he’s hauling props in a box truck; the next, he’s designing sets for a Netflix documentary. “It’s a lot like the Marines,” says the 10-year veteran. “Managing people, equipment, locations—it’s all about discipline.” And Emily Zboran? She’s diving into project management at Majors Management, juggling tasks solo while her bosses travel. “I’ve learned to prioritize, organize, and trust myself,” she says. The takeaway? Internships are tough to land, but worth it. We’ll have closing comments after this ---------------------- Break 4: Ingles Markets ---------------------- Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.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 August 1st Publish Date: August 1st Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Friday, August 1st and Happy Birthday to Coolio I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta weighs ethics complaint ban during elections New police HQ, brewery, hotel highlight growth in Kennesaw and Acworth Marietta school system's weapons detectors: What you need to know Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on GLP-1 Foods All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: Ingles Markets 8 STORY 1: Marietta weighs ethics complaint ban during elections Marietta’s City Council is mulling over a proposal that would block ethics complaints during election season. The idea? To keep things from getting messy—well, messier—when candidates are running for mayor or council. If passed, no complaints could be filed between the time candidates qualify and when election results are certified. Mayor Steve Tumlin and all seven council members are up for reelection on Nov. 4, with qualifying starting Aug. 18. But here’s the kicker: Tumlin wasn’t even at the meeting where this was discussed. Without him, the council’s Judicial Legislative Committee (led by Cheryl Richardson) pushed the proposal forward for Tuesday’s meeting. Richardson, though, had mixed feelings. “It’s like voting yourself a pay raise,” she said, tweaking the proposal to start Jan. 1—after this election. Fair? Maybe. But it’s complicated. No final decisions yet, just more meetings ahead. STORY 2: New police HQ, brewery, hotel highlight growth in Kennesaw and Acworth It was a lively morning at the Northwest Cobb Area Council meeting, where Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood and Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling shared updates on their cities’ growth. Sitting alongside them was Jim Croft, CEO of Croft and Associates, who kicked things off with a warm nod to the mayors. “I’ve known these guys forever,” he said. “Their leadership? Top-notch. Their integrity? Unquestionable.” Easterling dove into Kennesaw’s big-ticket projects, like the $13.9 million public safety building on Moon Station Road. “It’s going to be a game-changer,” he said, describing the two-story facility with everything from a crime lab to a K-9 space. Meanwhile, Allegood spotlighted Acworth’s bustling downtown, where parking expansions and a new Springhill Suites are in the works. “Our Main Street is on fire,” he said, grinning. Both mayors circled back to one theme: quality of life. “It’s what makes us a destination,” Allegood said. STORY 3: Marietta school system's weapons detectors: What you need to know At Marietta High, Marietta Middle, the Sixth Grade Academy, and Woods-Wilkins, students will now pass through weapons detectors at the entrances. The district approved the $554,645 purchase of Evolv detection systems back in May, following a tragic school shooting in Winder last September. That incident, along with two weapons-related scares in Marietta schools, pushed safety to the forefront. Here’s how it works: students hand over large electronics—laptops, Chromebooks—before walking through the detectors. No need to empty pockets or backpacks. “It’s quick,” said Brian Wallace, the district’s safety specialist. “Grab your stuff, and you’re on your way.” The detectors, equipped with cameras, can scan up to 1,500 people an hour. Superintendent Grant Rivera called it “one more layer” of safety for grades six through 12. 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: Smyrna man charged in death of elderly woman after alleged medical neglect A Smyrna man, Kenneth Bogart, 57, is in custody after police say his neglect led to the death of Geralyn Gossett, an elderly woman in his care. The incident unfolded at Bogart’s condo on Doranne Court. According to the arrest warrant, Bogart picked Gossett up from the hospital on July 17, noticing she was “becoming incoherent.” Later that night, she experienced a medical emergency. At some point between midnight and 1 a.m. on July 18, Bogart helped her into the bathroom for a shower. What happened next is hard to fathom—Gossett reportedly flailed on the floor for hours, even damaging the wall. Instead of calling for help, Bogart filmed her and sent the video to a friend for advice. Then, unbelievably, he left her there and slept in his car. By the time he called 911 the next afternoon, it was too late. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Aug. 1 - 3 Looking for plans this weekend? Here’s what’s happening around town: Get ready to laugh until your cheeks hurt at the Alley Stage’s “Comedy on the Square” this Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Expect a mix of seasoned pros and fresh faces delivering sharp one-liners and hilarious stories. Tickets start at $27—grab them online before showtime or snag one at the door. Friday night, head to the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre for an outdoor screening of The Greatest Showman. Gates open at 6 p.m., the movie starts at 7, and yes, it’s free. Bring snacks, a blanket, and maybe some bug spray. Saturday night, the Atlanta Water Lantern Festival lights up Jim R. Miller Park. Lanterns, live music, food trucks—it’s magical. Tickets start at $38 online, but they’ll cost more at the gate. And for the lovebirds, the Georgia Bridal Show takes over the Cobb Galleria on Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. Wedding planning pros, dreamy dresses, and everything in between. Tickets are $10 online or $15 at the door. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on GLP-1 Foods We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 8 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textThis episode is hosted by Josh Blum, Chris Stewart, and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comAll of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded on July 24, 2025.The B Shifter podcast reviews audio from a Cobb County, Georgia structure fire where the incident commander exhibits excellent command presence during a strategic shift from offensive to defensive operations after experiencing structural collapse.• Modern residential construction presents unique challenges including lightweight materials and extensive void spaces• Well-executed command transfer demonstrates the value of a standardized command system• Priority traffic about garage collapse initiated a chain of information-gathering from interior crews• Multiple companies requesting to re-enter were respectfully denied after the IC evaluated risk vs. reward• Excellent customer service shown when crews rescued a cat despite operating in defensive mode• The "calm presence" of the incident commander created a foundation for fireground safety• After Action Reporting system helps departments objectively evaluate performance rather than relying on subjective impressions• Risk management isn't just a concept but the entire command system working togetherRegister for the 2025 Blue Card Hazard Zone Conference at bshifter.com where pre-conference workshops are filling up quickly. 

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 30th Publish Date: July 30th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, July 30th and Happy Birthday to Arnold Schwarzenegger I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal New bagel shop offers a steamed twist near Marietta Square Marietta kindergartners get first taste of school bus life Fake Romeos used Facebook, Instagram and other platforms in scheme to swindle women All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 7 STORY 1: New bagel shop offers a steamed twist near Marietta Square Sully’s Steamers has opened its first metro Atlanta location near Marietta Square, offering steamed bagel sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. Known for their “always steamed, never toasted” approach, the bagels are steamed twice for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Popular menu items include The Griswold, featuring turkey, bacon, and barbecue sauce, and the Nacho Maximus, topped with nacho cheese Doritos. Co-owned by Sophie Balas and her parents, the family aims to bring this unique concept, originally founded in South Carolina, to the Marietta community. Sully’s is open daily, serving a variety of bagel flavors and creative sandwiches. STORY 2: Marietta kindergartners get first taste of school bus life Marietta’s annual "Ready, Set, Ride" event gave first-time bus riders a practice run before the school year begins. Over 100 students participated, preparing for the return of 8,500 students across 12 campuses, with 5,800 riding buses. Bus driver Cathy Wells decorated her bus with positive messages, calling it an extension of the classroom. She emphasized safety rules, reminding kids to sit properly. Kindergartener Waverly Andrews experienced her first bus ride with excitement, while fifth-grader Giovanna Ricciardi guided her younger brother Nico, ensuring a smooth start to the school year. STORY 3: Fake Romeos used Facebook, Instagram and other platforms in scheme to swindle women Kenneth G. Akpieyi, a Georgia man, was convicted in Louisiana for his role in a $3 million romance scam targeting women online. Using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Akpieyi and others lured victims into fake relationships, later requesting money for fraudulent causes via encrypted apps like WhatsApp. Akpieyi, operating under the alias Phillip Anderson, funneled funds through his company, KGA Autobrokers LLC, to accounts in China and the UAE. He faces up to 40 years in prison and significant fines, with sentencing set for Nov. 5. 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: Keegan’s Irish Pub brings Irish flavor to downtown Acworth Keegan’s Irish Pub has opened its second location on Main Street in Acworth, offering a cozy Irish atmosphere with traditional fare like shepherd’s pie and its bestselling Reuben spring rolls. Owner Pete McCaffery, who also runs a Kennesaw location, emphasizes hands-on management, doing everything from cooking to serving. The pub, adorned with Irish flag colors, has quickly become a local favorite, with patrons praising its authentic vibe, great food, and friendly environment. McCaffery envisions it as a welcoming spot for families and friends to gather, eat, and enjoy soccer. STORY 5: Three Cobb educators named 2025 Teachers of the Year Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale surprised staff at three schools to announce the district’s Teachers of the Year: Caleb Garrett (Compton Elementary), Lakeisha Grange (Betty Gray Middle), and Amanda Dillard (Pope High). Each teacher, selected by colleagues, was praised for their dedication and impact on students. They received a pin, crystal award, and a free one-year car lease, with the district winner earning the car permanently. Garrett, a fourth-year teacher, called it a “full circle moment,” while Grange emphasized building lasting relationships with students. Dillard, a special education teacher, highlighted helping students find their passion. Break: STORY 6: Sewell Mill Library Knit and Stitch meets Aug. 6 Knit and Stitch, a monthly meetup for adults to work on crafts like knitting, crochet, embroidery, or cross-stitch, takes place at 11 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at Sewell Mill Library in Marietta. Participants must bring their own supplies, as no materials are provided. The event is not instructional and requires no registration. For details, call 770-509-4987 or visit cobbcat.org/library. STORY 7: Sheriff Owens calls for unity at 34th annual shrimp boil in Cobb The Cobb County Sheriff’s 34th annual Low Country Shrimp Boilin’ drew 400 attendees to Jim Miller Park. Sheriff Craig Owens continued the tradition, emphasizing it as a community event, not political. Guests enjoyed shrimp, live music, and family activities, with proceeds supporting Owens’ reelection and community programs like backpack drives and holiday donations. Owens, Cobb’s first African-American sheriff, highlighted unity and equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. Local officials and community members praised Owens’ leadership and dedication to Cobb County. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 7 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 25th Publish Date: July 25th Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Friday, July 25th and Happy Birthday to Walter Peyton I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding 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: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget Cobb County commissioners approved a $1.3 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year along partisan lines, keeping the general fund millage rate flat at 8.46 mills. The budget includes a 3.8% increase over last year, staff raises of 2-5%, and four new positions funded by fire and water funds. While the fire fund millage rate was slightly reduced, rising property values will generate $13 million more in tax revenue. Public commenters raised concerns about transparency, spending, and the impact on renters. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid defended the budget, emphasizing sustainability and efficient use of resources. STORY 2: Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions Residents along Riverside Parkway in Mableton are demanding action to address unsafe and neglected conditions in apartment complexes like Five 7 Five, Residence at Riverside Row, and Silver Creek Crossings. Issues include pest infestations, overgrown grass, leaks, and broken windows, with many residents feeling ignored. The properties, now under receivership, are managed by Foresight Asset Management, but residents report little improvement. Mableton Mayor Michael Owens and local leaders are pushing for stricter ordinances and collaboration to ensure safe, affordable housing without displacing residents. Advocates stress the need for long-term solutions for essential workers living in the area. STORY 3: West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding The West Cobb VA Clinic in Marietta is temporarily closed due to flooding reported on July 15. Repairs are underway, but the reopening date is unknown. The Atlanta VA Health Care System is converting appointments to virtual or rescheduling to minimize disruptions, with outreach efforts ongoing. Veterans can check updates by calling 404-545-9452 or the main VA line at 404-321-6111. For emergencies, veterans are advised to call 911 or visit the nearest ER. 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: Kennesaw takes steps to regulate short-term rentals, address neighbor concerns Kennesaw City Council has approved an ordinance requiring short-term rental property owners to obtain licenses starting Oct. 1. The $250 license applies to single-family residential zones, with a cap of 150 licenses issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Owners must meet requirements like liability insurance, notifying neighbors, and designating a 24-hour contact. Violations can result in fines or license revocation. The ordinance aims to address noise, parking complaints, and neighborhood integrity while testing the program’s effectiveness during an initial trial period. Feedback will be reviewed in March 2026. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — July 25 - 27 This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events: The Strand Theatre wraps up *Jukebox Giants: Motown and More* with performances Friday through Sunday (tickets start at $40). Glover Park hosts a free Billy Joel tribute concert Friday at 8 p.m., with front-table rentals available. The Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre screens *Wonka* Friday at 7 p.m., with free entry and parking. On Saturday, the Southern Museum in Kennesaw holds its Railroad Rendezvous, featuring hands-on activities and a chance to board *The General* (admission $10 adults, $5 kids). Sunday, Smyrna Market Village hosts its weekly market with 60+ vendors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 6 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 23rd Publish Date: July 23rd Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, July 23rd and Happy Birthday to Slash I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Whataburger opens first Acworth location Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination Mableton approves EV fleet purchases All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: Whataburger opens first Acworth location Whataburger opened its first Acworth location on Cobb Parkway Northwest, marking the 20th Georgia location and fourth in Cobb County. Mayor Tommy Allegood welcomed the franchise during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating its investment in the community. Known for fresh, customizable burgers and popular items like the Patty Melt and breakfast taquitos, Whataburger aims to stand out with quality ingredients. The grand opening treated the first 100 customers to free food and swag. Regional leaders announced plans for further expansion in Georgia, including a Marietta location, as the brand approaches its 75th anniversary in 2025. STORY 2: Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination Smyrna-based Paleteria La Providencia has voluntarily recalled three popsicle flavors—Coconut, Cookies and Cream, and Coffee—due to potential listeria contamination. The affected products, with date codes of 6/17/25 and 6/11/25, were sold via mobile carts and Atlanta-area stores. Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable groups, and may lead to miscarriages in pregnant women. While no illnesses have been reported, consumers experiencing symptoms are urged to contact the Georgia Department of Public Health. Authorities are working to trace the distribution of the contaminated products. STORY 3: Mableton approves EV fleet purchases The Mableton City Council approved the purchase of 11 all-electric Ford vehicles, including 10 Lightning Trucks and 1 Mach E, for up to $470,425 from fiscal 2026 capital funds. The vehicles will address staff shortages and support city departments like code enforcement. Special Projects Manager Xavier Ross highlighted the phased purchase approach and potential grant opportunities tied to the EV investment. Mayor Michael Owens praised Wade Ford for offering discounted prices below market and state contract rates. Additionally, the council approved a rezoning request for TKHC Ministries to build a church and held a public hearing on issuing city alcohol licenses, with no action taken. 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: Cobb eyes funding for microtransit pilot in Acworth, Kennesaw The Cobb County Board of Commissioners is considering expanding its successful CobbLinc Go microtransit program to Acworth and Kennesaw, targeting areas like Kennesaw State University and Town Center. The $6.4 million pilot would be funded primarily through state grants, with a local match to boost competitiveness. The service, modeled after the south Cobb pilot, offers flexible, curb-to-curb rides for $2.50. While some commissioners support the program for its potential to reduce congestion and serve nontraditional students, others question its necessity given existing transit options. The board will vote on applying for grant funding, with final approval pending project selection. STORY 5: KSU student's research aims to create more confident math teachers Kennesaw State University senior Summer Funk is researching math anxiety among preservice teachers through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, inspired by her own struggles with algebra. Under the mentorship of Professor Paula Guerra, Funk is surveying education students to understand their experiences with math anxiety and its impact. Early findings reveal that all participants recognize math anxiety as common among future teachers. Funk hopes her research will lead to curriculum changes that address and mitigate this issue, ultimately fostering more confident math educators. This project marks a significant milestone in her academic journey. Break: STORY 6: Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Citizen Science at Work webinar is Aug. 12 The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County will host a free virtual webinar, “Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Citizen Science at Work,” on Aug. 12 at 7 p.m., led by UGA Extension’s Becky Griffin. The webinar will explore pollinator ecology and encourage participation in the 2025 Great Southeast Pollinator Census on Aug. 22-23. The census will take place at various gardens in Marietta and Roswell, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to pollinator research. For details, registration, and participation, visit the event’s website. STORY 7: Anesthesiologist Arrested Over Operating Room Drug Ariana Nicole Lyons, a 33-year-old anesthesiologist from Smyrna, was arrested on July 7 for allegedly possessing 10 vials of Drprivan Propofol, a controlled substance valued at $100 each, outside its authorized area at Wellstar Vinings Health Park. According to an arrest warrant, the drug is restricted to operating rooms. Lyons faces charges of theft and possession. She was booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center and released on July 9 on a $2,000 bond. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 18th Publish Date:  July 18th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, July 18th and Happy Birthday to John Glen I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Hits a Grand Slam with All-Star Festivities Former Cobb police officer drowns after rescuing family in rip current Marietta Marine Honored on 10th Anniversary of Chattanooga Terror Attack Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 1: Cobb Hits a Grand Slam with All-Star Festivities Cobb County hosted MLB’s All-Star festivities at Truist Park, drawing thousands, including Georgia leaders and fans, for events like the Home Run Derby, Celebrity Softball Game, and All-Star Game. Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton and others praised the week as a showcase of community pride, economic impact, and Southern hospitality. Highlights included a tribute to Hank Aaron, the Budweiser Clydesdales, and interactive activities at the All-Star Village. Officials noted flawless coordination, no major incidents, and significant benefits for local businesses and tax revenues. The event cemented Cobb County as a premier destination for major events. STORY 2: Former Cobb police officer drowns after rescuing family in rip current Former Cobb County police officer and ex-professional baseball player Chase Childers tragically died while saving a family caught in a rip current on Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Childers successfully rescued the family with another person but was swept away and later found by the Coast Guard. Known for his heroism, Childers had received a lifetime achievement award during his time with Cobb PD and was also a skilled fisherman and builder. He leaves behind his wife, Nataley, and three children. A GoFundMe page, “Blessings for Nataley and children in memory of Chase,” has raised over $46,000 to support his family. STORY 3: Marietta Marine Honored on 10th Anniversary of Chattanooga Terror Attack Lance Cpl. Squire “Skip” Wells, a Marietta Marine killed in the 2015 Chattanooga terrorist attack, was honored on the 10th anniversary of his death at Georgia National Cemetery. Family, friends, and fellow servicemembers gathered to remember Wells, one of the “Chattanooga Fallen Five.” The ceremony, led by the Marine Corps League’s Detachment 647, highlighted Wells’ legacy as a dedicated Marine and beloved community member. Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell and others paid tribute, emphasizing his sacrifice at just 21 years old. Wreaths and a white rose were placed at his headstone, with his mother urging all to “say their names” to honor their memory. 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: LOUD Security Systems closes on purchase of new headquarters LOUD Security Systems has purchased a new 51,000-square-foot headquarters in Kennesaw at 1990 Vaughn Rd., marking a significant milestone for the company. The facility will undergo upgrades to support workforce expansion, enhanced technology, and improved collaboration. Serving over 10,000 customers with a team of 60, LOUD’s president, John Loud, emphasized the investment as a commitment to the community and the company’s future. Celebrating 30 years in business, LOUD Security is known for cutting-edge solutions in intrusion detection, fire monitoring, and surveillance, with Cobb County remaining central to its growth strategy. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — July 18 - 20 This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events: - **"Jukebox Giants: Motown and More"** at Marietta’s Strand Theatre showcases ’50s-’70s music with performances Friday through Sunday. Tickets start at $40. - **Mableton Food Truck Friday** runs 6-9 p.m. at Mableton Town Square with free admission, parking, and activities. - **"Scene on the Green"** features Shakespeare’s *A Midsummer Night’s Dream* Friday at 6 p.m. at the Art Place in Marietta, with free admission. - **Marietta Square Farmer’s Market** on Saturday morning offers 65+ vendors with unique goods. - **Epic Farmer’s Market** in Mableton runs Saturday and Sunday with 50+ vendors, live music, and artisan products. Visit event websites for details! Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 4 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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 July 16th Publish Date:  July 16th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, July 16th and Happy Birthday to Will Ferrell I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta School Board to consider vape detection, substitute teacher funding Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is Aug. 23 Letter shows Cobb's threat to halt police services in Mableton All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 3 STORY 1: Marietta School Board to consider vape detection, substitute teacher funding The Marietta Board of Education is set to discuss installing Halo vape detection systems in Marietta High, Middle, and Woods-Wilkins Campus. These devices, costing up to $60,000 funded by grants, discreetly monitor air quality, alerting staff to harmful chemicals like nicotine. Superintendent Grant Rivera and his team aim to tackle vaping issues proactively. Additionally, the board will consider a $2.4M contract with Kelly Services for substitute staffing and appointing R.K. Redding Construction for Marietta High renovations, scheduled for summers 2026-2027, funded by SPLOST. STORY 2: Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is Aug. 23 The Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is set for Aug. 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at The Roberts School in Acworth. Hosted by Acworth Cultural Arts, this free event features local and regional authors, professional storytellers, vendors, and a panel discussion themed “Ink & Echo: Writing the stories. Speaking the truth.” Keynote speaker Bren McClain, author of *One Good Mama Bone*, will join T.M. Brown in conversation. STORY 3: Letter shows Cobb's threat to halt police services in Mableton Mableton officials agreed to pay Cobb County $9.5 million for police and transportation services after the county threatened to halt them by June 1. Mayor Michael Owens said the city was forced into the deal to ensure public safety, despite concerns of "double taxation" for residents already paying county taxes. The agreement funds services until May 2026, with Mableton exploring a special service district to cover costs. While Cobb County claimed it wouldn’t abandon residents, a May 30 letter revealed threats to cease services if no deal was reached. The city council initially rejected the plan but later approved it after mediation. 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: Austell approves 158% property tax increase The Austell City Council approved a 158% property tax increase, raising the millage rate from 3.25 to 8.25 mills, despite strong opposition from residents. The hike, expected to double property tax revenue to $3.85 million, aims to stabilize finances and address a $1.6 million budget shortfall. Mayor Ollie Clemons defended the decision as necessary for the city’s future, while critics, including Council member Meredith Adams, opposed the sharp increase, citing its impact on residents, especially those on fixed incomes. Many residents blamed city leadership for financial mismanagement, while Clemons attributed the issues to inflation and past inaction. STORY 5: Cobb Water Authority manager talks fluoride, forever chemicals, costs Cole Blackwell, general manager of the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, emphasized proactive planning for water quality, affordability, and infrastructure reliability during a Kiwanis Club talk. The authority, sourcing water from Lake Allatoona and the Chattahoochee River, is addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS, though current levels remain safe. Inflation and rising construction costs have impacted operations, but costs are stabilizing, and the authority has a water supply sufficient through 2055. Blackwell reassured residents of continued fluoride use, compliance with regulations, and efforts to maintain reasonable water rates while ensuring future reliability. Break: STORY 6: Marietta man charged with stealing from Ford Elementary School Jamie Jr. Cline, 44, of Marietta, faces two theft charges for allegedly stealing a trailer and hay blower from Ford Elementary School in Acworth during separate incidents on June 29 and 30. According to police, Cline accessed the school by opening chained gates. Arrested on July 8, he was booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center and released the next morning on a $35,000 bond. STORY 7: Shaw Park Community Block Party is July 19 The Shaw Park Community Block Party will take place on July 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Gritters Library in Marietta. Hosted by Gritters Library, CobbWorks, and Cobb PARKS, this free, family-friendly event features a live DJ, inflatable games, face painting, bilingual storytime, and a Bollywood Dance Challenge. Food will be available for purchase from The Patty Wagon and King of Pops. The event aims to bring the community together and highlight local resources while celebrating the library’s recent reopening. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 3 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

✦ Can you name a feeling? Dashill Smith and the musicians and vocalists that join him at TenATL certainly think so. City Lights Collective co-host Jon Goode recently went to visit TenATL in East Atlanta to learn more. ✦ In honor of MLB All-Star Week, Truist Park isn’t the only place in Cobb County to see baseball this summer. A new exhibition at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art features the work of artist Mike Schacht—a prolific painter of baseball legends. ✦ Known to soap opera fans as the hold no prisoners mob by Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, actor Maurice Bernard has earned several daytime Emmy awards and the attention of millions of fans. However, in recent years, he has stepped into the role of a lifetime: mental health advocate. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Bernard has used several platforms, including his podcast, State of Mind, to raise awareness about living with mental illness. He'll share his candid experiences at the Punchline on July 24th with his one-man show, Maurice Bernard: Live on Stage. ✦ Artist, illustrator and educator Faith Ringgold showed us our world through the eyes of young children in every medium you can think of –books, paintings, drawings, sculptures, even quilts. Trained and extensively honored in the fine art and academic circles of New York City, Faith Ringgold nevertheless focused her work on the children who remained her lifelong muse, working as an art teacher in New York City public schools for decades. Now, the High Museum is presenting the most comprehensive exhibition to date of Faith Ringgold’s art from her children’s books, including never-before-seen pieces. ✦ Municipal Support for the Arts ✦ They play on street corners, beneath overpasses, and in MARTA stations — creating the soundtracks of Atlanta’s daily hustle. But who are these street performers, and what drives them? WABE arts reporter Summer Evans explores the city’s vibrant busking scene and learns how it compares to other musical cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 11th Publish Date:  July 11th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, July 11th and Happy Birthday to President John Quincy Adams I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb to see increased police presence, some traffic during MLB All-Star events Marietta school board approves property tax increase Cobb eyes ‘slight' reduction in fire fund millage Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 1: Cobb to see increased police presence, some traffic during MLB All-Star events Cobb County is prioritizing safety and smooth operations for the MLB All-Star festivities at Truist Park and surrounding areas, expecting tens of thousands of attendees. Enhanced security measures include increased police presence, barriers, and collaboration with federal and state agencies. Traffic impacts are expected to be minimal, with real-time monitoring and adjustments by the Department of Transportation. The week-long events, including the All-Star Village at Cobb Galleria, are projected to bring significant economic benefits. Residents are encouraged to use CobbLinc for affordable transportation and stay updated via the Cobb Commute app. STORY 2: Marietta school board approves property tax increase The Marietta Board of Education voted to maintain its 17.97 millage rate, resulting in a 0.89% property tax increase due to rising property values. This decision, aimed at funding teacher raises and staying competitive in the labor market, will increase taxes by $31 for a $500,000 home and $57 for a $900,000 non-homestead property. The district expects $84.95 million in property tax revenue, a 1.82% increase from last year. The millage rate has remained unchanged since 2013, and the board recently approved a $167 million budget, including average raises of 3.3% for employees. STORY 3: Cobb eyes ‘slight' reduction in fire fund millage Cobb County officials proposed a slight reduction in the fire fund millage rate from 2.99 to 2.97 mills, citing a $107 million surplus. The change would reduce fire fund revenue by $1 million but would not impact fire operations, personnel, or capital funding. Some residents and commissioners expressed concerns, emphasizing the critical role of fire services. The proposed $1.33 billion budget for 2026 includes a 3.8% increase from last year, funding raises for public safety employees and other staff. Public hearings on the millage rate are scheduled for July 16 and 22. 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: Access Cobb Debuts as Cobb County’s Only Headquartered Community Bank Access Cobb, a Craft Bank, has opened at 145 Church Street near Marietta Square, marking the only community bank headquartered in Cobb County. Focused on personal relationships, the bank offers a range of services, from personal savings to commercial banking, with a commitment to knowing clients by name. The modern, art-filled space emphasizes community ties, partnering with Robert Kent Galleries to display local artwork. President Terri Bunten Guthrie and CEO Ross Mynatt highlighted the bank’s dedication to supporting small businesses and fostering local growth. Future expansion plans will depend on the success of this branch. STORY 5: The Clydesdales are coming: Budweiser delivers big branding for MLB All-Star Week Budweiser is celebrating MLB All-Star Week in Smyrna with special beer deliveries via iconic Clydesdale horses. The deliveries start Friday at 4 p.m. in Market Village, with a parade route available on Smyrna’s Facebook page. The Clydesdales, a symbol of Budweiser and American tradition for over 90 years, will also be featured at the Budweiser Zone near the Capital One All-Star Village at Cobb Galleria. Handlers will share fun facts about the horses, adding to the excitement of All-Star festivities, which include games and events leading up to Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 2 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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 July 9th Publish Date:  July 9th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, July 9th and Happy Birthday to Tom Hanks I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Austell residents rebel against proposed property tax increase Advanced voting for Public Service Democratic runoff begins Popular eatery Tin Drum expands to Kennesaw All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 1 STORY 1: Austell residents rebel against proposed property tax increase Austell residents packed the Threadmill Complex to protest a proposed 158% property tax hike, which would raise the city’s millage rate from 3.25 to 8.25 mills, generating $3.85M in revenue. City officials, including Mayor Ollie Clemons, defended the increase, citing inflation and a $1.6M budget shortfall. Finance Director Rachel Yarbrough explained the city’s reliance on gas revenue and the need for higher property taxes. Residents voiced concerns about affordability, lack of a city manager, and the sharp increase’s impact, especially on seniors. Clemons assured measures to ease the burden for older residents but emphasized the necessity of the hike to sustain city services. Two more public hearings are scheduled, with the final one on July 14. STORY 2: Advanced voting for Public Service Democratic runoff begins Advanced voting for the Democratic special primary runoff for the District 3 Public Service Commission seat began Monday and runs through July 11, with polling stations open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Keisha Sean Waites, a former Atlanta City Councilwoman, faces clean-energy advocate Peter Hubbard, with the winner advancing to challenge Republican incumbent Fitz Johnson in November. Waites led the initial primary with 47.2% of the vote but fell short of the majority needed to avoid a runoff. Eligible voters include those who voted Democratic or did not vote in the June 17 primary. Election Day is July 15, and voters must bring valid photo ID and vote at their assigned location. STORY 3: Popular eatery Tin Drum expands to Kennesaw Tin Drum Asian Kitchen has opened a new location in Kennesaw at 1155 Barrett Parkway, offering a variety of Asian dishes from China, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Popular menu items include the Singapore curry chow mein and sesame chicken rice bowl, alongside an expansive boba tea bar featuring favorites like brown sugar pearl milk tea. Founded in 2003 by Steven Chan, the restaurant aims to inspire and delight customers with its inclusive mission. Franchise managers Taran and Ramneek Singh, longtime fans, are excited to bring Tin Drum to Kennesaw. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. 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: Austell man shot, killed on Fourth of July Cobb Police are investigating the fatal shooting of Cody Chavous, 33, of Austell, in Mableton on Friday. Officers responded to reports of a shooting at 300 Concepts 21 Circle, where they found Chavous with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital but later died. The Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation and urges anyone with information to call 770-499-3945. STORY 5: Mableton residents could see new tax as city grapples with $9.5M county agreement Mableton Mayor Michael Owens plans to propose a special service district (SSD) tax to cover a $9.5M payment to Cobb County for police and transportation services through 2026. The SSD would levy a citywide millage rate, targeting funds specifically for public safety. Owens emphasized transparency and fairness, aiming to avoid a general property tax. The city must pay $3M by May 2026 and $6.5M by December 2026, with collections starting soon. Owens seeks a long-term deal with Cobb to stabilize costs and avoid annual renegotiations. The SSD proposal will go before the City Council within 90 days, with revenue projections expected by year-end. Break: STORY 6: Red Cross: Make an immediate difference by giving blood or platelets now The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets this summer, with Type O blood most needed. Severe weather and summer challenges can deplete supplies, making donations crucial for trauma patients and others. Donors can schedule appointments via RedCrossBlood.org, the Blood Donor App, or 1-800-RED CROSS. Those who donate by July 14 will receive Red Cross x goodr sunglasses, while donors from July 15-31 will get a Fandango Movie Reward. Upcoming Cobb County blood drives run through August, with locations including Marietta, Austell, Kennesaw, and Acworth. All blood types are needed, and donors must bring valid ID. Use RapidPass to save time by completing pre-donation steps online. STORY 7: Cobb EMC considering term limit extension Cobb EMC members will vote this summer on a proposed bylaw amendment to extend board term limits from four to five terms. The amendment, aimed at preventing a complete board turnover within 24 months, was approved 5-3 by the board to appear on the ballot. While some directors support the change to retain institutional knowledge, others, like Rudy Underwood, oppose it, citing prior commitments to term limits. A recent survey showed members are divided, with 49.2% favoring current limits and 43.3% supporting the extension. Voting begins in August, with the final decision at the annual meeting on Sept. 13. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 1 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com 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 #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 of the CrimeScience Podcast, LPRC's Director of Research, Cory Lowe, sits down with David Thorpe from the Cobb County Police Department. The conversation explores real-world crime prevention strategies, the role of law enforcement partnerships, and the importance of data-driven approaches in reducing crime.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 2nd Publish Date:  July 2nd    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, July 2nd and Happy Birthday to I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb K9 finds murder victim remains, suspect sentenced to life Acworth student named a Stephen D. Lee Scholar at Mississippi State University ‘The Bluebird Guy’ Leads 13-Year Conservation Effort in West Cobb All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 9 STORY 1: Cobb K9 finds murder victim remains, suspect sentenced to life A Cobb County investigator, Dr. Tracy Sargent, and her K-9 partner, Taz, played a key role in solving the murder of Carrie Hardin, a Fayetteville woman. Taz, a cadaver dog rescued and trained by Sargent, discovered Carrie’s burned body in a shallow grave near her home. Carrie’s husband, Kenneth Hardin Jr., confessed to the murder after a domestic dispute and was arrested in Louisiana following a multi-state manhunt. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including felony murder, and was sentenced to life without parole. Sargent and Taz have a history of assisting law enforcement nationwide in missing persons and homicide cases. STORY 2: Acworth student named a Stephen D. Lee Scholar at Mississippi State University Katherine Ullmer of Acworth was honored as a Stephen D. Lee Scholar during Mississippi State University's spring 2025 commencement. Among over 3,500 graduates, she was one of 140 students to achieve this distinction, awarded to those with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Ullmer earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Marketing from MSU's College of Business. STORY 3: ‘The Bluebird Guy’ Leads 13-Year Conservation Effort in West Cobb Jim Bearden, a 79-year-old retired event planner from Alabama, is affectionately known as “the Bluebird Guy” for his 13-year conservation efforts to repopulate bluebirds in the southeast. Starting with one nesting box at Green Meadows Preserve in Cobb County, Bearden has expanded the Bluebird Trail to over 30 boxes, helping over 3,000 bluebirds thrive. His work combats the species' decline caused by DDT in the 1960s and ’70s. Bearden funds much of the effort himself, including $200 monthly for mealworms, but annual fundraisers like the Marietta Wine Market event help offset costs. The trail’s success has inspired community involvement, with Bearden sharing tips like planting native plants and avoiding pesticides. His work is also shared with Cornell’s NestWatch program, ensuring a lasting impact. 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: 'Love and diversity': Thousands celebrate LGBTQ+ community at Smyrna Pride The fifth annual Smyrna Pride festival brought together over 3,500 attendees on Saturday to celebrate love, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Smyrna is Fabulous, the event is Cobb County’s only Pride festival and featured over 50 LGBTQ-owned or inclusive vendors, live music, face painting, and food. Campbell High School’s Pride Coalition engaged guests with a signed rainbow flag tradition, fostering a safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Attendees, including families and allies, embraced the festival’s message of love and acceptance. Organizers highlighted the importance of creating a welcoming space in Georgia, celebrating the beauty of diverse identities and connections. STORY 5: Cobb D.A. launches chaplain program to support staff facing trauma Cobb District Attorney Sonya Allen introduced a chaplain program to support her team of prosecutors, investigators, and staff who face trauma from handling violent crimes. At a luncheon, Senior DA Jared Horowitz and others shared the emotional toll of cases involving murder, rape, and child abuse. The program, offering spiritual care from various faiths, aims to help staff process their experiences and maintain mental well-being. Pastor Dorcas Rodriguez emphasized providing compassion and support, while Horowitz highlighted the importance of staying emotionally strong to serve victims and the community. The event concluded with prayers, marking the program's start in fostering justice and compassion. Break: STORY 6: Marietta Awards $1.4M in Arts and Tourism Grants The Marietta City Council approved $1.39 million in grants to 18 local arts, culture, and tourism organizations, funded by auto rental and hotel/motel taxes. Major recipients included the Marietta History Center ($160,000), Strand Theatre ($100,000), and Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art ($95,000). The Georgia Symphony Orchestra received $24,000, far below their $95,000 request, sparking concern from Councilwoman Cheryl Richardson, who highlighted the orchestra’s 75-year contribution to the community. Despite her opposition, the council approved the recommendations. The grants support programming, marketing, and staffing for organizations, ensuring continued investment in Marietta’s cultural scene. STORY 7: Truist Park, Battery revenues continue to outpace county debt service Cobb County’s partnership with the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta continues to generate significant revenue, surpassing its debt obligations. In 2024, the county netted $3 million in general fund gains, with property tax revenues from The Battery increasing to $2.6 million. Since 2014, The Battery’s taxable value has grown from $5 million to $577 million. Additional sales tax revenues from the development totaled $28 million in 2024, benefiting the county, schools, and state. Braves Development Company highlighted ongoing projects, including new restaurants, residential towers, and the upcoming MLB All-Star Week, showcasing the partnership’s long-term success and economic impact. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 9 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #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.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for June 28th Publish Date: June 28th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, June 28th and Happy Birthday to Toby Maguire I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Fireball, possible meteor spotted in sky over Georgia Aurora Theatre, city revamp operational structure of Lawrenceville Arts Center Sonny's BBQ reopening Lawrenceville restaurant damaged by lightning All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 1: Fireball, possible meteor spotted in sky over Georgia A fireball streaked across the southeastern sky Thursday, likely a meteorite that fell near Blacksville, Georgia, according to NASA. The event, detected by sensors and satellites, sparked over 100 reports from residents across Georgia, Tennessee, and neighboring states. Witnesses in Cobb County described a bright flash with a smoke trail, and some reported hearing a sonic boom and feeling shaking. The National Weather Service confirmed the fireball was detected on their Global Lightning Mapper, with more data expected. A dashcam photo from South Carolina captured the phenomenon, fueling excitement and curiosity across the region. STORY 2: Aurora Theatre, city revamp operational structure of Lawrenceville Arts Center The Lawrenceville City Council has approved a new agreement with the Aurora Theatre, shifting facility operations of the Lawrenceville Arts Center to the city while keeping Aurora as the creative anchor. Starting July 1, the city will manage rentals and events, easing financial pressure on Aurora, which will focus on productions and education. Aurora will remain the sole tenant, paying discounted rent and maintaining box office and technical services. The partnership aims to boost efficiency, expand programming, and ensure Aurora’s long-term success as it enters its 30th season, featuring productions like *The Wiz* and *In the Heights*. STORY 3: Sonny's BBQ reopening Lawrenceville restaurant damaged by lightning Sonny's BBQ in Lawrenceville is re-opened Thursday, over a year after a lightning strike caused significant fire damage. The ribbon-cutting event at 11 a.m. will honored firefighters from stations 31, 15, 20, and 8 for their efforts in extinguishing the June 2024 fire. The first 68 guests will received free BBQ sauce, and special meal deals, including $19.99 All You Can Eat St. Louis Ribs, was offered to celebrate the grand re-opening. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: STORY 4: DOT's HERO program to resume full service The Georgia Department of Transportation's HERO program will resume 24/7 patrols across metro Atlanta's nearly 400 miles of interstates starting July 1, after reducing hours in 2023 due to staffing shortages. With full staffing restored, HEROs will provide around-the-clock traffic incident clearance, free roadside assistance, and emergency preparedness. Launched in 1994, the program aims to enhance safety and reduce delays. Residents can request HERO assistance via the 511GA app, website, or by dialing 511 hands-free. STORY 5: Rainbow Village Gala Gets New Venue And A Tailgate Twist Rainbow Village, a Duluth nonprofit aiding homeless families for 34 years, is expanding with its "Building Homes, Building Hope" campaign, adding two apartment buildings to house 36 more families by year-end. This fall, its largest fundraiser, the "We Are Family" Gala, is reimagined as the "Tailgate to Tackle Homelessness" Benefit Gala on Oct. 4 at Formetco in Duluth. The casual, football-themed event will feature popular elements like a wine wall, alumni testimonials, and a live auction, alongside new experiences. Sponsorships are available, with Northside Hospital as the presenting sponsor. Break 3: STORY 6: Peachtree Corners launches AI website chat assistant Peachtree Corners has introduced "CurioCity," an AI-powered web chat assistant, to enhance customer service and streamline communication between residents and city staff. Developed in partnership with Citibot, the tool allows residents to access information, report issues, and connect with city departments via the city's website, available 24/7 on desktop and mobile. City officials aim to improve accessibility and transparency, making government services easier to navigate. Peachtree Corners joins five other Georgia cities and several major U.S. cities in adopting Citibot’s AI technology for resident engagement. STORY 7: Leadership Gwinnett Class of 2026 Announced Leadership Gwinnett has announced its Class of 2026, a diverse group of professionals embarking on a nine-month program starting August 2025. For 40 years, Leadership Gwinnett has developed community leaders equipped to address local challenges and drive positive change. Participants will explore Gwinnett’s history, assets, and issues while building relationships and leadership skills. By graduation in May 2026, they’ll be prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities. The class includes leaders from various sectors, such as education, government, business, and nonprofits, reflecting a commitment to fostering informed and connected civic leadership. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets 6 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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: ingles-markets.com kiamallofga.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 #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 27th Publish Date:  June 27th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, June 27th and Happy Birthday to Chris O’Donnell I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb & Fulton County first responders teach preschoolers safety McEachern Alum Ace Bailey Drafted at No. 5, Joins Fellow Cobb Products in Utah $10k reward offered in Marietta car dealership arson investigation 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: Cobb & Fulton County first responders teach preschoolers safety Preschoolers at Primrose Schools in Bells Ferry and Roswell East enjoyed a hands-on safety lesson during National Safety Month. Cobb County Safety Village and Johns Creek Fire Station 63 officers and firefighters taught 3- and 4-year-olds about safety, showcased their gear, and let them explore a sheriff's vehicle and fire truck, making safety education interactive and fun. STORY 2: McEachern Alum Ace Bailey Drafted at No. 5, Joins Fellow Cobb Products in Utah Former McEachern and Rutgers star Ace Bailey was selected fifth overall by the Utah Jazz in the NBA Draft, despite skipping workouts with several teams, including the Jazz. Bailey, praised for his talent, averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds as a Rutgers freshman and earned Big Ten honors. Excited to join a rebuilding Jazz team, Bailey aims to lead and work hard alongside fellow Cobb County players Collin Sexton and Isaiah Collier. The Jazz, who finished last in the Western Conference, also acquired guard Walter Clayton Jr. Bailey joins a legacy of McEachern players drafted into the NBA. STORY 3: $10k reward offered in Marietta car dealership arson investigation A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of a suspect accused of setting five vehicles on fire at two Marietta dealerships late Monday night. Fires were reported at Atlanta Luxury Motors and Unlimited Auto Group, both on Cobb Parkway, with no injuries reported. Investigators have determined the cause to be arson and believe the same suspect, seen walking along Cobb Parkway South that night, is responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Marietta Fire Marshal’s Office or the Georgia Arson Hotline. 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: Cobb, mayors talk sidewalks, infrastructure, maintenance for proposed $950M SPLOST Cobb County officials and mayors discussed priorities for the proposed 2028 SPLOST, a 1% sales tax projected to generate $950 million over six years. Key focuses include infrastructure, sidewalks, parks, and public safety. Mableton, participating for the first time, emphasized catching up on neglected infrastructure. Officials highlighted challenges like inflation, project delays, and maintenance costs for joint projects. Public input meetings are planned for early 2026, with the final project list set for a November 2026 vote. Leaders stressed the importance of collaboration to ensure SPLOST funds address community needs effectively. STORY 5: Connecticut-style pizza restaurant coming to Town Center Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza, a Florida-based chain specializing in Connecticut-style pizza, is opening its first Georgia location in Marietta's Barrett Creek Plaza near Town Center mall this July. Known for its crispy, smoky crusts baked in 750-degree ovens, the restaurant brings the authentic taste of New Haven pizza to Cobb County. This marks the chain's fifth location and part of a broader expansion into multiple states. Founded in 1976 by Nicholas Laudano, Ah-Beetz aims to share the unique flavor of his hometown pizza. An exact opening date has yet to be announced. 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.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of June 27th Publish Date: June 27th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, June 27th and Happy Birthday to Chris O’Donnell I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Students across Georgia will be learning cursive next school year Cherokee County voters invited to meet candidates July 30 Holloway removed from ballot in Cherokee commissioner race Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: MILL ON ETOWAH REV GENERIC_FINAL STORY 1: Students across Georgia will be learning cursive next school year Starting this fall, Georgia public schools will reintroduce cursive writing as part of the English Language Arts curriculum for elementary students. Approved in 2023, the updated standards require third graders to read and write cursive phrases, progressing to full texts by fifth grade. Advocates, including State Superintendent Richard Woods, highlight cursive's benefits for fine motor skills, literacy, and connecting students to historical documents. To promote excellence, the state will award the "John Hancock Award" to schools excelling in cursive instruction. The move has been widely celebrated, especially among supporters of traditional education values. STORY 2: Cherokee County voters invited to meet candidates July 30 Cherokee County voters can attend a public forum for Senate District 21 and Board of Commissioner District 1 special election candidates on July 30 at the historic courthouse in Canton. Hosted by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau and Chamber of Commerce, the event begins with a 5:30 p.m. meet-and-greet, followed by the forum at 6:30 p.m. Candidates will speak and answer audience-submitted questions. RSVP by July 18 via dfoward@gfbco.org or 770-479-1481 ext. 0. STORY 3: Holloway removed from ballot in Cherokee commissioner race Cameron Holloway has been disqualified from the Cherokee County Commission District 1 special election due to residency issues. The Cherokee County Board of Elections determined Holloway did not meet the one-year residency requirement, as he only updated his voter registration to Cherokee in April 2025, despite moving there in July 2024. Holloway admitted to delays in updating documents but denied any intent to deceive. The board cited evidence like his prior voting in Forsyth County and business registrations tied to a Forsyth address. Holloway accepted the decision but expressed disagreement, emphasizing his commitment to the community and future eligibility to run. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    Break: STORY 4: Proposed Acworth hospital to create 1,500 jobs, address 'critical need' Wellstar Health System has filed for approval to build a $1 billion, 230-bed medical center in Acworth to address growing healthcare demands in Cobb, Paulding, Cherokee, and Bartow counties. The proposed eight-story, 675,000-square-foot facility would include 70 emergency bays and eight operating rooms, creating over 1,500 jobs. With the area’s population, especially those over 65, projected to grow significantly by 2030, the hospital aims to relieve pressure on Wellstar Kennestone in Marietta, which operates at near-full capacity. Wellstar emphasizes expanding access to care, including for Medicare, Medicaid, and uninsured patients. STORY 5: Georgia awards $26.5 million in transportation grants and loans The State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) awarded a record $26.5 million in Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) loans and grants to fund 13 transportation projects statewide. Key investments include $4.9 million for a pedestrian path in Cobb County, $4.5 million for road resurfacing in Colquitt County, and $4.4 million for road projects in Dodge County. Other projects include a roundabout in Barrow County, a new roadway in Cherokee County, and safety improvements in Athens-Clarke County. These projects aim to enhance infrastructure, improve safety, and accelerate timelines, with a focus on economic growth and rural development. Commercial: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 2   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #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 25th Publish Date:  June 25th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, June 25th and Happy Birthday to Mick Fleetwood. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta Schools Foundation appoints new executive director Cobb, cities to meet over new sales tax referendum Cobb to consider in-house paramedic program 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 Schools Foundation appoints new executive director The Marietta Schools Foundation has appointed Laura Kraus, a Marietta City Schools alumna, as its first female executive director, succeeding Joe Kinstle. Established in 1983, the nonprofit supports students, teachers, and district initiatives through scholarships, teacher awards, and funding for classroom needs. Kraus, a former teacher and administrator, aims to expand the foundation’s impact across the district. With over $2 million awarded in scholarships and endowments, the foundation continues to grow, supporting the community with a focus on educational excellence and service to Marietta City Schools. STORY 2: Cobb, cities to meet over new sales tax referendum The Cobb Board of Commissioners will meet with mayors of the county’s seven cities this week to discuss the 2028 SPLOST referendum, a 1% sales tax funding infrastructure projects. Each city will present its project priorities, with a focus on roads, transportation, and community needs. The current SPLOST, collecting $750 million, ends in 2027. A draft project list is due by October, with public feedback sessions in early 2026. Voters will decide on the package in November 2026. Officials aim to address rising costs and ensure impactful projects to gain voter support. STORY 3: Cobb to consider in-house paramedic program The Cobb Board of Commissioners will vote on an agreement with MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service to establish an in-house paramedic program at Cobb Fire & Emergency Services. The program aims to double the number of paramedics trained annually, expanding care and serving as a recruitment tool. Limited to employees of Cobb Fire or MetroAtlanta, the program will cost $650 per student, significantly less than typical tuition. Cobb Fire will provide classroom space and instructors, while MetroAtlanta oversees accreditation and enrollment. Officials see this as a cost-effective way to increase paramedics and improve community emergency services. 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 faces shortfall in '26 general fund budget Cobb County staff will brief commissioners on a $7 million shortfall in the $644.5 million general fund budget for next year. Proposed solutions include raising the millage rate, eliminating commissioners’ $200,000 contingency funds, maintaining a 5% water revenue transfer, cutting $1 million in public safety overtime, and shifting 0.05 mills from the fire fund to the general fund. The budget doesn’t account for 290 new staff requests, costing $27.8 million, while the county still has 468 vacant positions, primarily in police, fire, and water departments. STORY 5: Events: Celebrate July Fourth in Cobb County Cobb County offers several Independence Day celebrations: - **July 3**: Kennesaw’s Salute to America (6-10 p.m.) features live music, kids' activities, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Six Flags Over Georgia (July 3-6) offers rides and fireworks nightly. - **July 4**: Marietta’s Fourth in the Park includes a parade (10 a.m.), concerts, and fireworks at dark. Acworth hosts live music (5:30 p.m.) and fireworks at Lake Acworth (9:30 p.m.). Powder Springs features a car show, live bands, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Truist Park combines a Braves game (7:15 p.m.) with post-game fireworks. Enjoy food, music, and patriotic fun across the county! Break: INGLES 7 STORY 6: CDPH offering free HIV testing in honor of National HIV Testing Day June 27 is National HIV Testing Day, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and linking individuals to care. Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) will offer free HIV testing at Walgreens in Austell from 2-6 p.m. and continues to provide free testing at its health centers. Testing helps prevent HIV through tools like PrEP and condoms or enables rapid treatment for those who test positive. Cobb County, identified as a high-incidence area, is part of a federal initiative to end HIV by 2030. Free OraQuick self-test kits are also available for pick-up or delivery. STORY 7: 'Out on the water': Professional wakeboarding tour returns to Allatoona The Pro Wakeboard Tour made a splash at Allatoona Lake in Acworth, where professional and amateur wakeboarders, wakesurfers, and jet skiers showcased thrilling tricks and flips. The event, part of a national competition, aims to crown a champion while promoting the sport’s growth and family-friendly appeal. Acworth’s strong support, with hundreds of spectators and boats, makes it a favorite stop for athletes like 10-time jet ski champion Lee Stone and pro wakeboarder Noah Wildman. This marks nearly 20 years of the tour visiting Allatoona Lake, with the next stop set for July in Florida. 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Keep your business running smoothly with expert commercial water heater services from My Georgia Plumber, your trusted partner for fast, professional plumbing solutions that reduce downtime and protect your bottom line. Learn more at https://www.mygeorgiaplumber.com/restaurants-to-retail-health-care-clinic-to-home-services-all-commercial-plumbing-services My Georgia Plumber City: Canton Address: 2080 Marietta Hwy Website: https://www.mygeorgiaplumber.com/ Phone: +1 770 592 0081 Email: service@mygeorgiaplumber.com

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.

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.

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.

Join us on this week's Cybersecurity Podcast for an in‑depth, ad‑free exploration of the latest ransomware blitz and emerging defense strategies. I'm Bryan Hornung, alongside Randy Bryan and Reginald Andre three industry veterans with decades of hands‑on experience ready to unpack every twist and turn. In our opening deep dive, we'll walk you through two headline‑grabbing attacks: a CBS affiliate in Chattanooga that fell victim to the Lynx ransomware gang, and Hitachi Vantara's flagship data center, crippled for days by the Akira group. What drove these adversaries to target media outlets and global enterprises, and how did each organization scramble to contain the damage? We'll analyze critical containment tactics, rapid recovery plans, and key lessons for shoring up defenses before the next breach strikes. Next, we shift from real‑world incidents to cutting‑edge trends shaping tomorrow's battlefield. Discover why live ransomware simulations are becoming essential “war games” for security teams, and learn how agentic AI could empower attackers to move at machine speed outpacing human defenders. We'll also demystify Microsoft's bold move to make every new account passwordless by default, weighing the promise of passkeys and biometrics against privacy and compliance concerns. And don't miss our examination of the startling insider‑threat case, where a cybersecurity CEO allegedly turned hospital systems into his own surveillance testbed. In our follow‑up segment, we revisit two major UK retail hacks Marks & Spencer's admitted lack of a coherent cyber‑response plan and the Co‑op's mass data theft—plus the alarming rise of “vishing” through fake IT help‑desk calls. Then, we cover the Cobb County leak and its fallout for citizen privacy, before closing with a critical look at DaVita's recent ransomware event, where 1.5 TB of patient data was exfiltrated yet life‑saving dialysis treatments continued under emergency protocols. Whether you're a security leader, IT professional, or simply curious about how today's most dangerous cyber threats unfold and get contained, this episode delivers actionable insights and expert analysis. Listen now, subscribe for the latest updates, and share if you find value your support keeps our show free of ads and full of expertise!

GDP Script/ Top Stories for April 29th Publish Date: April 29th From The BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, April 29th and Happy Birthday to Jay Leno 04.29.25 - BIRTHDAY – JAY LENO*** I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia Racing for Research — Sugar Hill 11-year-old brain cancer survivor and family running to raise funds Lanier Grad Phillip Webb Earns Camp Invitation from Miami Dolphins Fired CDC Workers Ask Ossoff to Fight Harder for Them at Cobb Town Hall All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Kia MOG (07.14.22 KIA MOG) STORY 1: Racing for Research — Sugar Hill 11-year-old brain cancer survivor and family running to raise funds Sugar Hill’s Rowan Rieve, an 11-year-old cancer survivor, is gearing up for the 2025 Lauren’s Run in Sandy Springs with his family. Despite battling two brain tumors and undergoing intense treatments, Rowan has participated in the race since 2022, improving his time each year. Now in remission, he’s excited to beat his 50-minute record and enjoy post-race treats. The Rieve family, who raised $1,200 for pediatric cancer research, is dedicating this year’s run to Rowan’s late grandfather, Werner Rieve, honoring his memory while celebrating resilience and family unity. STORY 2: Lanier Grad Phillip Webb Earns Camp Invitation from Miami Dolphins Lanier High graduate Phillip Webb has earned a training camp invite from the Miami Dolphins, as announced by Jackson State University. Despite going undrafted in the NFL Draft, Webb showcased his talent during his college career. After battling injuries at LSU, he transferred to Jackson State, where he recorded 41 tackles (10 for losses) and three sacks in 2022, followed by 22 tackles (six for losses) and three sacks in 2023. STORY 3: Fired CDC Workers Ask Ossoff to Fight Harder for Them at Cobb Town Hall At a Cobb County town hall, Sen. Jon Ossoff faced criticism from fired CDC workers demanding stronger opposition to federal cuts under former President Trump. Ossoff called the layoffs “shortsighted” and defended the CDC as vital to public health, highlighting Medicaid’s role in Georgia. Fired workers accused him of insufficient action, prompting Ossoff to pledge meetings and further support. While some attendees expressed skepticism, Ossoff emphasized the need for a Democratic majority to counter Trump’s policies, warning of threats to democracy and the rule of law. The event, part of his 2026 reelection campaign, remained peaceful and open to all constituents. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 4: Gwinnett Has 7 Taken in NFL Draft; Rookie Free Agent Signings Rolling In Collins Hill grad Travis Hunter headlined Gwinnett’s NFL Draft class, going No. 2 overall to the Jaguars. Six more Gwinnett standouts were drafted, including Barrett Carter (Bengals), Jordan Hancock (Bills), Myles Hinton (Eagles), Phil Mafah (Cowboys), Konata Mumpfield (Rams), and Julian Ashby (Patriots). Rookie free agent deals followed for others like Seth McLaughlin (Bengals), Jared Ivey (Seahawks), Jasheen Davis (Saints), Jared Bartlett (Jets), Phillip Webb (Dolphins), and Chuck Smith IV (Chiefs). Gwinnett’s seven draftees mark its second-highest total, showcasing the county’s football talent. STORY 5: High Line Criterium Debuts In Suwanee April 30 Suwanee will host its first-ever High Line Criterium, a fast-paced cycling event, on Wednesday, April 30, at Town Center on Main. Part of Speed Week, a series of elite criterium races across Georgia and South Carolina, the event features cyclists navigating sharp turns on a closed downtown circuit. Spectators can enjoy unique views from the pedestrian bridge and indulge in food vendors for a full night of entertainment. Suwanee’s events manager, Amy Doherty, highlighted the race as a thrilling addition to the city’s community-focused experiences. The event is free and open to the public. Break: ***DTL ELYSSA PATE_FINAL *** Break 4: Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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  www.kiamallofga.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.

First came the gerrymander, as Georgia's state GOP legislators redrew a majority liberal county's commission map to better favor Republicans. Then came the court battle to unseat the commissioner elected to serve, but drawn out of her district by said gerrymander. Today, with both the map and the vacancy now adjudicated (poorly, I might add), many Cobb County voters head to the polls today to fill the vacancy with either former state representative Erick Allen or Alicia Davis, whose leading donor is the state senator who sponsored the gerrymander creating the vacancy i the first place. Other voters in Cobb will either re-elect incumbent Democrat Monique Sheffield or GOP challenger Matthew Hardwick. However, because the gerrymander and court thievery weren't eough, conservatives launched an 11th-hour disinformation campaign with a tactic that smacks of old mid-20th century "good ol' boy" tactics. You know the one: "Republicans vote today; Democrats tomorrow." With me to speak on it today is Cobb County Democratic party chair Essence Johnson and candidate Erick Allen. ------Meanwhile state party leaders will convene to elect a new state party chair, and the six candidates vying for the job held another forum last night in Toccoa. Hear their introductions and feel free to review that forum or the first or second forum of these same candidates held earlier this month.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of April 25th Publish Date: April 25th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, April 25th and Happy Birthday to Barbara Streisand ***04.25.25 - BIRTHDAY – BARBRA STREISAND*** I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Developer Nixes Plans for Medical Complex in Cherokee County Cherokee Authorities Looking for 13-Year-Old Last Seen Monday Cherokee County Firefighters and First Responders Earn Awards Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on giving community talks We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: MILL ON ETOWAH REV GENERIC_FINAL STORY 1: Developer Nixes Plans for Medical Complex in Cherokee County A planned medical complex in Cherokee County’s Avery community will no longer proceed, as developer Mack Development Group has withdrawn from the project. The property at 7658 Union Hill Road, near Avery Elementary, may now be available at a reduced price. County leaders, including Commissioners Steve West and Richard Weatherby, are exploring purchasing the land for a future park, though development would take years. The site was rezoned in March for office institutional use, despite mixed public feedback and a petition with over 950 signatures opposing the project. STORY 2: Cherokee Authorities Looking for 13-Year-Old Last Seen Monday The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is seeking help to locate 13-year-old Jamel Nalls, reported missing on April 21 near Bells Ferry Road by the Cobb County line. Jamel, described as Black with red hair, brown eyes, 5’02”, and 130 pounds, was last seen wearing a white shirt, black jeans, white shoes, and carrying a grey and blue backpack while riding a black bicycle with green lettering. He may be heading to the Austell area. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office at 770-928-0239 or call 911. STORY 3: Cherokee County Firefighters and First Responders Earn Awards Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services honored its personnel with awards recognizing exceptional achievements from April 14-16. The EMS Lifesaver Award went to 24 individuals for life-saving actions during emergencies, while the Firefighter Lifesaver Award was given to five firefighters for heroic efforts. Officer Jesse Hamilton received the Civilian Lifesaver Award. The Unit Citation recognized teams for outstanding performance during major incidents, and the Meritorious Service Award was presented to Nichole Drgan for sustained excellence. The Community Service Award honored four members for exceptional public service and representation of the department. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    Break: STORY 4: Ben Cagle Announces Run for Cherokee County Commission Ben Cagle, a fourth-generation farmer and lifelong Cherokee County resident, has announced his candidacy for Cherokee County Commission District 1. With current Commissioner Steve West running for Georgia Senate, Cagle aims to focus on safe communities, supporting law enforcement, preserving local control, opposing reckless spending, and addressing overdevelopment. Highlighting his commitment to balancing growth with the county’s rural heritage, Cagle promises practical solutions and responsible planning. A community leader, he has chaired the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and served on the American Farm Bureau Federation YF&R Committee. Cagle lives in Ball Ground with his wife and two sons. STORY 5: Cherokee County Students Advance to District Oratorical Contest Cherokee County students Leigha Samuel and Andrew Alderman earned first and second place, respectively, in the Area 1 Gateway Optimist Oratorical Contest on April 12. Sponsored by the Holly Springs and Woodstock Midday Optimist Clubs, they will advance to the District Oratorical Contest in Carrollton on April 26. Also competing were Ellery and Ellia McClain, sponsored by the Rome Noon Optimist Club, after winning their school-level contests. Commercial: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on giving community talks *** INGLES ASK LEAH (COMMUNITY TALKS)_FINAL*** We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 3   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #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.

Residents spoke out about the poor conditions of the Chelsea Gardens apartments in College Park. Now, they must find a new place to live. The City of College Park has reportedly condemned the complex due to its deplorable state, giving residents short notice to move. Shakira Fortson with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, outgoing resident Andre Harris and former resident Cassandra Meenaghan share their experience at Chelsea Gardens, what’s next for them, and the actions they want the property owner and city officials to take. Plus, the final prom event in Cobb County for the 2025 season is happening on Saturday. The goal is to make sure Cobb County students with special needs, affectionally known as “rockstars,” feel seen, celebrated, and supported. For 15 years, Superior Plumbing and the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office have partnered together to make sure prom night is an unforgettable experience for these students. Randi Okray, the communication and public relations specialist for Cobb County Sheriff's Office, and Jay Cunningham, founder of Superior Plumbing who launched the initiative, talk more about the annual tradition that coincides with Autism Awareness Month. Cunningham also talks about the initiative’s impact and the inspiration behind it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for April 23rd Publish Date:  April 23rd    Commercial: COBB SPRING ART FEST_FINAL From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, April 23rd and Happy Birthday to Roy Orbinson ***04.023.25 - BIRTHDAY – ROY ORBINSON*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta Theatre Company Presents Little Women Vision To Learn Summer Break 2025 at Cobb Libraries Legislators Talk Healthcare, Housing at Senior Forum 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 Theatre Company Presents Little Women Marietta Theatre Company will present *Little Women* from May 1-10 at Theatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Avenue, Marietta. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, the story follows the March sisters as they navigate life during the Civil War era. Tickets range from $27.50 to $51.95 and are available online. For more details, visit mariettatheatre.com. STORY 2: Vision To Learn Summer Break 2025 at Cobb Libraries Nine Cobb County Public Library locations will host Vision To Learn mobile clinics in June and July, offering free eye exams and glasses for children ages 5-18. Registration is required, and space is limited. Clinics run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on scheduled dates at various libraries, including South Cobb, Gritters, Switzer, and more. This initiative, part of a collaboration with Learn4Life, aims to improve children’s outcomes and early literacy. For details and registration, visit https://bit.ly/Cobb_County. STORY 3: Legislators Talk Healthcare, Housing at Senior Forum Dozens of Cobb County seniors gathered Tuesday in Marietta to discuss healthcare, housing, and aging in place with 12 state lawmakers. Officials highlighted efforts like House Bill 399, which targets out-of-state investors inflating housing costs, and proposed legislation to cap rent increases for seniors and veterans. Medicaid access sparked debate, with some criticizing Georgia’s limited expansion and work requirements. Lawmakers also addressed elder abuse prevention and improving senior care facility standards. With Georgia’s senior population expected to exceed 20% by 2030, legislators pledged continued advocacy in the next session starting January 2026. 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: Early Voting Ticks Up in Cobb Commission Races for Districts 2 and 4 Early voting is underway for Cobb County’s District 2 and 4 Board of Commissioners seats, with 2,149 votes cast as of Tuesday afternoon. Voting sites include the Cobb Elections Main Office, Smyrna Community Center, South Cobb Community Center, and Old Clarkdale Park Community Center, open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 25. Key issues for voters include diversity, equity, and inclusion, with candidates Erick Allen (D) and Alicia Adams (R) vying for District 2, and Monique Sheffield (D) facing Matthew Hardwick (R) in District 4. Election Day is April 29, with assigned polling locations required. STORY 5: Cobb School Board to Hear $1.86 Billion Budget Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale will present a proposed $1.86 billion budget at Thursday’s school board meeting. Public comments on the tentative budget can be made at the 6:30 p.m. meeting at 514 Glover Street, with final approval set for May 15. Board members are eager to review funding for “failing” schools and federal programs. The board will also vote on several expenditures, including $15.9M for a new tech academy, $19M for Tapp Middle renovations, $3.2M for playground upgrades, $1.7M for buses, and $450K for K-9 officers. Additional items include a $439K scoreboard and $50K for band uniforms. Break: COBB SPRING ART FEST_FINAL STORY 6: Marietta Church Serves as Filming Location for Hulu’s ‘Murdaugh Murders’ Show A Hulu limited series, *Murdaugh Murders*, based on the true story of Alex Murdaugh’s crimes, was filmed Tuesday at St. James Episcopal Church near Marietta Square. The series stars Patricia Arquette as Maggie Murdaugh and Jason Clarke as Alex Murdaugh, drawing from journalist Mandy Matney’s reporting and podcast. Filming involved lane closures on Church Street, with scenes shot inside the church. Marietta City Manager Bill Bruton hinted at more productions coming to the city soon. STORY 7: Braves Install New Garden Towers at Truist Park To celebrate Earth Day, the Atlanta Braves installed eight garden towers at Truist Park to grow plants for ballpark food items. Two towers, ready for harvest this week, will provide lettuce and herbs, with a plan to yield 56 plants weekly. Excess produce will support the Braves' food donation program in partnership with Second Helpings Atlanta, aiding the community. Located near the Blue Moon Beer Garden, this initiative is a collaboration with Delaware North and Truist Park Executive Chef Jaco Dreyer. For details, visit Braves.com/Sustainability. 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 Cobb Spring Arts Fest 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 April 16th Publish Date:  April 16th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, April 16th and Happy Birthday to Kareem Abdul Jabarr. ***04.16.25 - BIRTHDAY – KAREEM ABDUL JABBAR*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Strand Theatre to Have Auditions for Jukebox Giants: Motown & More Three Arrested at Marjorie Taylor Greene Town Hall in Acworth Carr Launches 'Operation Hold the Line' to Combat Transnational Gangs in Georgia 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: COBB SENIOR EXPO_FINAL STORY 1: Strand Theatre to Have Auditions for Jukebox Giants: Motown & More The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta is holding video auditions for *Jukebox Giants: Motown & More*, a high-energy musical revue featuring classic soul and R&B hits. Open to ages 18+, auditions require both a vocal video (under 5 minutes with two contrasting songs) and a dance video (four 8-counts of a jazz combo). Submissions, including a headshot, resume, and availability from June 16 to July 27, are due by May 6 via email to auditions@strandmarietta.org. Rehearsals start June 16, and performers must be prepared to sing and dance concurrently. STORY 2: UPDATE: Three Arrested at Marjorie Taylor Greene Town Hall in Acworth Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene's town hall in Acworth turned chaotic, with three arrests, two taser incidents, and nine protesters removed. Greene emphasized her support for Trump’s agenda, immigration crackdowns, and banning gender-affirming care for minors. She addressed economic concerns, urging families to "rein in" spending, and dismissed claims about Medicare cuts. Protesters criticized her policies, while Greene defended her positions, including the Protect Children's Innocence Act and the Laken Riley Act. Despite disruptions, Greene answered pre-submitted questions, mostly from supportive constituents, and highlighted the growth of the MAGA movement. STORY 3: Carr Launches 'Operation Hold the Line' to Combat Transnational Gangs in Georgia Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr launched "Operation Hold the Line" in Cobb County, a taskforce uniting local, state, and federal agencies to combat transnational gangs, human trafficking, and fentanyl distribution. Inspired by President Trump’s call to action, the initiative builds on Carr’s anti-gang network, established in 2017, and includes federal partners like the FBI and ICE. Carr highlighted the role of transnational gangs in organized retail theft and illicit activities, citing recent successes like shutting down 35 massage parlors linked to gangs. The effort aims to strengthen partnerships and intensify the fight against violent crime in Georgia. 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: Mt. Bethel Academy to Receive Tax-Free Bonds for Expansion The Development Authority of Cobb County approved up to $50 million in tax-exempt bonds to help Mt. Bethel Christian Academy expand its upper school campus in east Cobb. The project aims to accommodate up to 625 middle and high school students by replacing temporary classrooms with permanent buildings, upgrading athletic facilities, and adding a dining hall. The school plans to move middle grades to the upper campus as its lease for the lower campus ends in 2028. While the bond pricing is pending market conditions, the expansion is expected to create 14-16 jobs in five years, though some board members questioned its alignment with the authority's mission. STORY 5: Kemp signs two tax cut bills Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed two tax relief bills on Tax Day. House Bill 111 reduces the state income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%, retroactive to the start of the tax year, while House Bill 112 provides one-time rebates: $250 for single filers, $375 for heads of households, and $500 for joint filers. While the rebate bill passed unanimously, Democrats criticized HB 111, arguing it favors higher-income earners. Kemp defended the measures, emphasizing taxpayer control over their money. The signing event, held at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre, was attended by state leaders and lawmakers. Break: STORY 6: Marietta Woman Charged with Payroll Theft Claudia Patricia Angulo, a Marietta bookkeeper, is accused of stealing $46,167.68 from Tile Media Properties (The Tile Doctor) between November 2023 and September 2024. According to a Cobb County arrest warrant, Angulo allegedly issued herself around 20 extra payroll deposits via QuickBooks and attempted to conceal the theft by moving records to another computer file. She faces charges of theft by taking (over $1,500) and computer theft but does not currently appear in jail records. STORY 7: UPDATE: Rep. Seabaugh Takes Plea Deal in DUI Case State Rep. Devan Seabaugh pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors—failure to yield to a bicyclist and driving too fast for conditions—stemming from a 2024 car wreck in Atlanta. DUI charges were dropped as part of a plea deal. Seabaugh was fined $2,866, sentenced to 40 hours of community service, and must complete a DUI course, a victim impact panel, and a clinical evaluation. The incident involved Seabaugh driving into an unmarked bike lane, striking a bicycle, and causing minor injuries to the cyclist. Seabaugh denied intoxication, citing a single beer hours prior, and expressed gratitude no one was seriously hurt. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: COBB SENIOR EXPO_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 www.monsterjam.com/en-us #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.

  At The Manely Firm, P.C., they know not just Georgia family law, but the way family law is practiced in specific courts in individual counties all around the state, like the courts in Forsyth, Gwinnett, Fulton or Cobb County. Even within the same court, one family law judge is likely to handle a matter differently […]

  At The Manely Firm, P.C., they know not just Georgia family law, but the way family law is practiced in specific courts in individual counties all around the state, like the courts in Forsyth, Gwinnett, Fulton or Cobb County. Even within the same court, one family law judge is likely to handle a matter differently […]

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for April 11th Publish Date:  April 11th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, April 11th and Happy Birthday to Ethel Kennedy ****04.11.25 -BIRTHDAY – ETHEL KENNEDY*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta Adds 11 Apartments to Development at Former Harry's Site UPDATE: Six Arrested After Shooting, Police Chase in Marietta Atlanta Rhythm Section to Perform at Strand Theatre Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sugar free cakes 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: MONSTER JAM STORY 1: Marietta Adds 11 Apartments to Development at Former Harry's Site The Marietta City Council approved changes to the Marietta Crossing development, adding 11 apartments for a total of 247 units at the former Harry’s Farmer’s Market site. After much debate and a veto from Mayor Steve Tumlin, the council voted 4-3 in favor of full residential use for one building, citing challenges in attracting commercial tenants. The developer argued the weak retail market made the change necessary. The site will also include 39 townhomes, with most being three stories tall. The decision reflects ongoing efforts to balance housing needs and market realities in the area. STORY 2: UPDATE: Six Arrested After Shooting, Police Chase in Marietta Six men, aged 18-23, were arrested after a shooting at Lakeside at Town Center Apartments in Marietta led to a police chase. The suspects, armed with handguns and an AK-47-style rifle, allegedly fired at two victims, Deshawn Hirsch and Miykael Davis, who were injured but later discharged from the hospital. The suspects fled in a BMW, crashing during a police pursuit. Multiple apartments and vehicles were damaged by gunfire, and police are investigating if others were involved. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Marietta Police or submit anonymous tips. STORY 3: Atlanta Rhythm Section to Perform at Strand Theatre Fans of 70s rock can catch the Atlanta Rhythm Section (ARS) at the Strand Theatre in Marietta on Friday, April 18, as part of the Homegrown Georgia Songwriter concert series. Known for hits like “Imaginary Lover” and “So Into You,” ARS blends Southern rock with jazz and blues influences. Led by original member Rodney Justo, the band cherishes intimate venues like the Strand for audience connection. Justo, who rejoined ARS in 2011 after retiring, promises a setlist of classics and hidden gems. Limited tickets remain, starting at $69, with the show beginning at 8 p.m. 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: First-year KSU Student, Author Recognized as Versed Local Historian At just 19, Andrew Bramlett, a history student at Kennesaw State University, has already made a significant impact as a historian. A former vice president of the Kennesaw Historical Society at age 10, he now serves on the Kennesaw Historic Preservation Commission. Bramlett has earned accolades like KSU's Undergraduate Research Award and the Georgia Historical Records Advisory Council award. He’s published articles, led tours at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, and unveiled historical storyboards. Known for his research skills and passion for history, Bramlett also assists with rare book collections at KSU, continuing to inspire with his dedication to preserving local history. STORY 5: 'A Conversation Starter': Marietta Super on State Phone Ban Georgia's "Distraction-Free Education Act" (HB 340), awaiting Gov. Brian Kemp's signature, would ban cellphone use in public schools for grades K-8 starting July 2026. Schools must adopt policies by January 2026 but can choose how to enforce the ban. Marietta City Schools already uses Yondr pouches to restrict phone access in middle schools and is considering expanding the policy. Superintendent Grant Rivera sees the bill as a statewide acknowledgment of the issue, sparking broader discussions, including potential high school bans. Cobb County schools, however, prefer a flexible, teacher-led approach to managing devices. Break: MONSTER JAM And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sugar free cakes *** INGLES ASK LEAH (SUGAR FREE CAKES)*** We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: MONSTER JAM 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 www.monsterjam.com/en-us/ #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 April 4th Publish Date:  April 4th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, April 4th and Happy Birthday to Robert Downey Jr. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU President Addresses Graduation Rates, Growth and DEI Rhett's Bill Helping Reintegrate Inmates headed to Kemp's Desk OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — April 4 - 6 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils 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: MONSTER JAM STORY 1: KSU President Addresses Graduation Rates, Growth and DEI Kennesaw State University President Dr. Kathy Schwaig is focused on improving graduation rates and enhancing student experiences as the university continues its rapid growth, now nearing 48,000 students. Key initiatives include expanding on-campus housing, such as the new $50M Summit II residence hall, and addressing infrastructure challenges like parking. KSU’s new strategic plan, "Taking Flight," emphasizes student success, research, and community engagement. Recent projects include a $60M STEM building and a robotics facility. Schwaig also highlighted efforts to support student organizations and adapt to changes in diversity policies, aiming to foster a supportive and engaging campus environment. STORY 2: Rhett's Bill Helping Reintegrate Inmates headed to Kemp's Desk Georgia Senate Bill 147, authored by Sen. Michael “Doc” Rhett, aims to ease reintegration for former inmates by requiring state correctional institutions to provide key documents like birth certificates, social security cards, work records, and vocational certifications upon request. The bill, unanimously passed and awaiting Gov. Kemp’s signature, seeks to reduce barriers to employment and lower Georgia’s 27% recidivism rate. Rhett, inspired by his work in homeless shelters, emphasized empowering individuals to reenter society successfully. This builds on prior legislation helping inmates obtain work records and driver’s licenses, further supporting their transition to becoming contributing citizens. STORY 3: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — April 4 - 6 This weekend in Atlanta is packed with events! The Braves kick off their 2025 home opener at Truist Park against the Marlins, featuring the Braves Walk, fireworks, giveaways, and kids' activities. Downtown Acworth hosts the Art Fest with artisan crafts, food, and a kid zone. The ATL Blues Festival at Cobb Energy Centre showcases top blues artists Sunday evening. Kennesaw’s Bunny Breakfast offers a family-friendly Easter celebration with pancakes and photo ops. For laughs, Comedy on the Square hits Marietta Friday and Saturday. Don’t miss out—tickets for many events are selling fast! 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: Parade Cancelled for 49th Annual Superior Plumbing Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival The 49th annual Superior Plumbing Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival will take place April 12-13 in downtown Kennesaw, though the kickoff parade has been canceled due to low participation. The free, family-friendly event features over 200 craft booths, the Georgia Grown Member Village, and a Kid’s Zone. Entertainment includes the Ready Go Dog Show, acoustic music, puppetry performances, and live music by Scott Thompson near the Food Court, which will also stream the Masters Golf Tournament. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History anchors the festival, showcasing local history. STORY 5: 26th Annual Wellstar Grand Gala Raises $1.25M for Women’s Health The 26th Annual Wellstar Grand Gala raised $1.25 million to advance women’s health services, addressing disparities in maternal and cancer care. Held at The St. Regis Atlanta, the sold-out event featured 600 attendees, including Atlanta Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins. Highlights included Wellstar’s Doula Program, improving maternal outcomes, and the Healthy Start initiative, bridging care gaps in rural Georgia. Dr. Michael Andrews received the Philanthropist of the Year award for his oncology advancements, while Jose “Mario” Castillo was honored as Caregiver of the Year for his dedication during Hurricane Helene. Proceeds will support Wellstar’s mission to improve women’s health outcomes. Break: MONSTER JAM And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: MONSTER JAM 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 www.monsterjam.com/en-us/ #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 April 2nd Publish Date:  April 2nd    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, April 2nd and Happy Birthday to Marvin Gaye ***BIRTHDAY – MARVIN GAYE*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Tables Proposed 24-Townhome Development Federal judge sides with Georgia in 'water wars' with Alabama Cobb PARKS Spring Arts Festival is April 26 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: MONSTER JAM 2025_FINAL STORY 1: Cobb Tables Proposed 24-Townhome Development The Cobb County Planning Commission delayed a decision on a proposed 24-townhome development at 2318 Powder Springs Road until May 6, citing concerns over stormwater management, parking, and road design. The applicant, Fort & Cole Street, plans two-story, craftsman-style homes with garages and a homeowners association. Cobb DOT raised issues with driveway spacing and private alley design, while the fire department questioned emergency vehicle access. A Cobb Schools representative opposed the project due to potential enrollment impacts at Osborne High. The commission seeks further input from the stormwater division before proceeding. STORY 2: Federal judge sides with Georgia in 'water wars' with Alabama Georgia secured another victory in its "water wars" as a federal judge upheld the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' 2021 decision to allocate more water from Lake Allatoona to meet metro Atlanta and Bartow County's needs. Alabama had challenged the decision, claiming it over-allocated water to Georgia, but the court found negligible impacts on Alabama's water needs. This ruling brings clarity after decades of litigation. Georgia also won a similar case against Florida in 2021 regarding water use from the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers. STORY 3: Cobb PARKS Spring Arts Festival is April 26 The Cobb PARKS Spring Arts Festival will take place on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. Featuring over 100 artisans, the event offers handmade goods, live music, aerial acts, and art demonstrations like glass-blowing and ceramics. Kids can enjoy the Kidz Korner, interactive crafts, and street entertainment. Attendees can also create art at the Splatter Paint Studio and other interactive booths. Admission and parking are free. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.    Break: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Georgia Bird Fest Returns for 2025 The 10th annual Georgia Bird Fest runs from April 11 to May 16, featuring over 40 events statewide, including canoe trips, birding weekends, and workshops. Highlights include the Georgia Bird Fest Summit on April 25-26 at Jekyll Island, with field trips and a keynote by acclaimed naturalist Janisse Ray. Proceeds support Birds Georgia's conservation and education efforts. Registration is open at birdsgeorgia.org. STORY 5: Three Cobb Students Named STAR Student Region Winners Cobb Water celebrated Fat Tuesday with a community parade through the Northwest Water Reclamation Facility, offering hour-long tours to educate participants on wastewater treatment and the impact of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) on sewer systems. Interactive games at various stations highlighted treatment processes, including a poop emoji toss to demonstrate FOG blockages. The event concluded with a fun photo op in a giant paper mâché toilet. Break: MONSTER JAM 2025_FINAL STORY 6: Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities at Cobb County Water System The Cobb County Water System in Marietta announced several volunteer opportunities. Activities include Rain Garden Work Days (various dates in April and May), water quality monitoring workshops (April 23 and May 15), waterway cleanups (April 24 and May 3), and community outreach events like storm drain marking (April 12 and May 8). Volunteers can help with gardening, stream monitoring, litter cleanup, and public education. Training and tools are provided for most events. For details, contact water_rsvp@cobbcounty.org or visit www.cobbstreams.org. STORY 7: State Super Names 44 Cobb Schools 'Math Leaders' Georgia State Superintendent Richard Woods honored 44 Cobb County schools as “Math Leaders” for their significant gains or success in standardized math tests. Schools received banners with ribbons for growth, proficiency, or distinction, with Cobb earning one of the highest percentages of top honors statewide. Ford Elementary also received recognition as a Military Flagship School for supporting military families. Woods emphasized the importance of math alongside literacy, with plans to expand awards to science and social studies next year. Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale praised the district's focus on comprehensive student success. Break: MONSTER JAM 2025_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 www.monsterjam.com/en-us #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.