Podcasts about cobb county

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.

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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 […]

In this special episode of Coffee with Your Retirement Coach, Aaron, Nic and Randy host from Jim R. Miller Park at the Best of Cobb event, celebrating the recognition of Yeomans Consulting Group as the Best Investment Firm in Cobb County. The episode features interviews with local business leaders and innovators, including representatives from Must Ministries, Glover Park Brewery, and Affinity Home Lending. We also welcome a very special guest- Ms. Cobb County! Topics covered include the importance of literacy, workforce development using AI, community service initiatives, and the impact of strong leadership and team building. The hosts reflect on the power of generosity, perseverance, and the diverse paths to success, providing listeners with inspiring stories and valuable insights. 00:00 Success Stories and the Power of Literacy 00:31 Welcome to Coffee with Your Retirement Coach 00:51 Celebrating Achievements and Community Impact 02:31 Interviews with Inspirational Leaders 04:22 Workforce Development and AI Technology 08:50 Spreading Literacy Through Reading 11:16 The Strand Theater: A Community Gem 15:56 Bullock Hope House: A Haven for Patients 19:30 Protecting Your Brand: Insights from an IP Lawyer 26:46 Crafting Excellence: The Journey of a Brewmaster 31:08 The Power of Sharing Knowledge 31:48 Community and Neighborly Bonds 32:26 Glover Park Brewery's Community Impact 33:20 Memorable Events and Celebrations 34:09 Supporting Charitable Causes 35:13 Reflections on Entrepreneurship 37:34 The Importance of Community Support 40:00 Must Ministries' Impact and Growth 57:24 Affinity Home Lending's Community Role 01:03:45 Celebrating Success and Generosity 01:06:49 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements Have a question for the coach? Send it in to connect@yourretirementcoach.com Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063585099972 Your Retirement Coach is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies.  Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed.  Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

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.

Mableton Mayor Michael Owens is approaching the two-year mark into his term as leader of the largest city in Cobb County. Mayor Owens returns to “Closer Look,” to talk more about how the relatively new city is fairing and his top priorities. He also shares details about how city leaders are addressing urban development, affordable housing, education and more. Plus, the White House has announced plans to cut more than 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, many of whom are veterans themselves. The cuts would come to an already reportedly understaffed VA System, adding to concerns about slower access to healthcare for veterans. Kyle Bibby, the co-CEO of the Black Veterans Project, and Lindsay Church, the executive director of Minority Veterans of America, respond to the potential cuts, the Pentagon purge of archives that documented diversity in the military, as well as the recent national security mishap when plans for an upcoming military strike in Yemen were shared with a journalist using Signal. Lastly, Wednesday marks what would have been soul singer Marvin Gaye’s 86th birthday. In celebration of his life and legacy, his sister Zeola Gaye and the Elite Success Talent Group have put together the musical production “The Evolution of My Brother Marvin Tribute.” The show will be at The Buckhead Theatre on Thursday, April 3. Rose talks with Zeola Gaye and Chae Stephen, who portrays the timeless artist. They talk more about the production and discuss their efforts to preserve Marvin’s legacy by ensuring that his music continues to inspire generations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man charged with the murder of a Cobb County grandmother, who was allegedly strangled, entered the United States without authorization, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Peach Pundit the Podcast, hosts Jason Pye, Scot Turner, and Buzz Brockway discuss various topics including the economic impact of Georgia's ports, the implications of trade wars, the performative nature of current politics, and the recent SignalGate scandal. They explore how these issues affect the state and the nation, emphasizing the importance of logistics and job creation while critiquing the political landscape. In this episode, the hosts discuss various themes surrounding government communication security, the implications of cancel culture on political careers, and the responsibilities of legislators in navigating personal and political interests. They delve into the recent firing of a state representative after voting against party lines, the conflict of interest in political roles, and the importance of citizen legislators. The conversation also touches on Brandon Beach's new role, controversies surrounding nonprofit statuses, voter roll maintenance, and recent legislation regarding cell phone use in classrooms. Finally, they explore political alliances and shifts within Cobb County's Republican Party.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for March 12th Publish Date:  March 12th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, March 12th and Happy Birthday to ***03.12.25 - BIRTHDAY – JAMES TAYLOR*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal May-Retta Daze Will Be May 3-4 Former Campbell Student Killed at Prom After-Party Identified Erick Allen Wins Runoff for Cobb Commission Seat 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 7 STORY 1: May-Retta Daze Will Be May 3-4 Marietta’s May-Retta Daze Festival returns May 3-4 on Marietta Square, featuring arts, crafts, music, and family fun. Presented by Superior Plumbing, the event showcases handmade goods like pottery, paintings, and candles, alongside local acoustic performances on the Glover Park stage. Visitors can enjoy festival foods and a Kid's Zone. Hours are 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (May 3) and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (May 4), with free admission. STORY 2: Former Campbell Student Killed at Prom After-Party Identified Former Campbell High student Ashton Hornsby, 17, was fatally shot at a prom after-party in Powder Springs. Police arrested 18-year-old Carlos Diaz, who claimed self-defense, alleging Hornsby intended to attack him. Hornsby suffered two gunshot wounds and died at Wellstar Cobb Hospital. Diaz faces murder and aggravated assault charges and is held without bond. Campbell High Principal Vanessa Watkins expressed deep sorrow, noting the impact on students, while the Cobb County School District offered counseling and emphasized safety measures. STORY 3: UPDATE: Erick Allen Wins Runoff for Cobb Commission Seat Erick Allen defeated Dr. Jaha Howard in the Democratic runoff for Cobb County’s District 2 Commission seat, earning 56.72% of the vote to Howard’s 42.28%, per unofficial results. Howard conceded and pledged support for Allen in the April 29 general election against Republican Alicia Adams. This marks Allen’s second victory over Howard, following a February primary where neither secured a majority. The special election follows legal disputes over district maps, with the original map drawn by the Republican-led legislature reinstated after a court ruling. The election redo is estimated to cost taxpayers $1.5 million. Results will be certified on March 17. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.    Break: STORY 4: GMDT’s Don Quixote Ballet Debuts the First Weekend of Spring Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre will debut the ballet *Don Quixote* on March 22-23 at Marietta’s Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. This comedic, Spanish-inspired “rom-com” ballet follows Don Quixote and Sancho Panza’s adventures alongside sweethearts Kitri and Basilio. Featuring pre-professional dancers aged 7 to high school seniors, the production is set to Ludwig Minkus’ score and includes both traditional and original choreography. Showtimes are 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (March 22) and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. (March 23). Tickets start at $25 at georgiametrodance.org/tickets. STORY 5: Mechanic Shop Catches Fire in Marietta A fire broke out at a mechanic shop on Gann Road in Marietta Tuesday, but no injuries were reported, according to Cobb County Fire Department. The fire started when a mechanic removing a fuel tank from a Ford F-150 caused an explosion, igniting gasoline and the truck. The flames quickly spread to the single-story building and multiple vehicles. Crews arrived around 2:40 p.m. and had the fire under control by 3:10 p.m. Break: STORY 6: Events and Happenings: The Week of March 10 Here’s a quick roundup of upcoming events in Marietta and nearby areas: - *The Bodyguard: The Musical* runs March 14-30 at Theatre in the Square, starring Tierra Robinson. - Adults can join a Glow-in-the-Dark Egg Hunt on April 19 at Lost Mountain Park for $5. - Women’s 5v5 Drop-In Basketball is open Tuesdays through April 8 at Custer Park for $2. - A Basketball Skills Clinic for kids (ages 7-15) runs April 15-May 24 at Custer Park. - *Alice in Wonderland* ballet by Georgia Ballet is March 13-16 at Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. - St. Patty’s events include Shamrocks & Shenanigans (March 15) and Smyrna’s St. Patrick’s Festival (March 15-16). - Six Flags Over Georgia opens March 15, and the Marietta Shamrock Shuffle 5K is the same day. For more details, visit respective event websites! STORY 7: Cobb Deadlocks Over Mableton Alcohol License The Cobb Board of Commissioners faced a deadlock over an alcohol license appeal for Vape Vibes, a Mableton convenience and vape shop. The shop sought the license to expand into a full convenience store, but concerns arose over its proximity to residences and its focus on vape products. While some commissioners supported the application, citing the shop's efforts to grow and its clean operation, others questioned its alignment with community needs. With Mableton transitioning regulatory authority, the case remains unresolved, and the shop owner withdrew the application, leaving future decisions to the city. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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 March 7th Publish Date:  March 7th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, March 7th and Happy Birthday to Bryan Cranston ***03.07.25 - BIRTHDAY – BRIAN CRANSTON*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Drug Task Force Seizes $261K, Drugs, Guns in Bust Construction on New Austell Park Begins Next Week Kennesaw Greenlights $13.9M Public Safety Building Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cooking for 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: Cobb Drug Task Force Seizes $261K, Drugs, Guns in Bust The Marietta Cobb Smyrna Narcotics Task Force seized over $261,000 in cash, 867 grams of heroin, 39 grams of cocaine, five grams of fentanyl, marijuana, and five firearms in a major drug bust this week. The operation stemmed from a traffic stop and search warrant. The task force, a multi-agency group formed in 1980, investigates narcotics activity across Cobb County. Officials praised the collaboration for enhancing community safety. The investigation is ongoing, with no details about suspects released yet. STORY 2: Construction on New Austell Park Begins Next Week Construction begins next week on Austell's new Jefferson Street Park, a 10,000-square-foot greenspace replacing part of a strip mall parking lot downtown. The $250,000-$300,000 project will feature a pavilion, fire pit, cornhole area, community stage, and updated parking with sidewalks and landscaping. Funded by grants and sponsorships, the park aims to host events like seasonal markets and the city's annual Christmas tree lighting. Part of Austell's Downtown Livable Center Initiative, the project is set to finish by November, with a ribbon-cutting and holiday celebration planned for December. STORY 3: Kennesaw Greenlights $13.9M Public Safety Building The Kennesaw City Council approved a $13.9 million contract to build a new 25,000-square-foot police headquarters on Moon Station Road, addressing overcrowding at the current facility. Funded by SPLOST, stormwater reserves, and ARPA, the building will also house 911 staff and emergency operations. Construction, managed by Gay Construction, is expected to take 15 months. The council also approved a $282,900 contract with Patterson & Dewar Engineers for construction oversight, funded by SPLOST. Additional approvals included funding for sidewalks in Woodland Acres, stormwater pipe purchases, and a $127,750 contract for the 2025 Concert Series. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: INGLES 7 STORY 4: Large-Screen TVs, Lockers, Landscaping Upgrades Coming to The Battery The Battery Atlanta is getting a series of upgrades ahead of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park. Enhancements include updated LED screens, expanded restrooms, new seating, interactive digital directories with emergency call buttons, redesigned landscaping, and updated walkways. Large TVs will be installed above Shake Shack and Good Game restaurants, ensuring fans can watch games. Additional updates include new seating and drink rails at Heritage Court and Battery Avenue, plus secure Binbox Lockers for personal items. While The Battery remains open during construction, temporary disruptions are expected. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — March 7 - 9 This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events: - Atlanta Opera's "Macbeth" at Cobb Energy Centre, starring Michael Mayes and Sara Gartland, with showtimes Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets start at $52. - Atlanta Home Show at Cobb Galleria Centre, featuring 175+ booths of home improvement ideas, running Friday through Sunday. General admission is $11. - "The Last Five Years" at the Strand Theatre, a two-person musical running Friday through Sunday at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. - Bubbles & Brews Craft Beverage Month, with tastings, live music, and prizes at local breweries all weekend. - "A Comedy of Errors" at the Strand Theatre, with its final show Friday at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 (21+ only). Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cooking for picky toddlers *** INGLES 1 (PICKY TODDLER) *** 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: 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.

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 […]

Georgia House lawmakers look to scare up more dollars for Hurricane Helene relief and to fund the state's prisons for the remainder of the current fiscal year; One of three Democrats on Cobb County's Board of Commissioners is ousted after the Georgia Court of Appeals refused to hear her redistricting challenge; and after being under indictment for years related to an alleged cover-up in the investigation into Ahmaud Arbery's 2020 murder, former prosecutor Jackie Johnson sees her last remaining charge thrown out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for March 5th Publish Date:  March 5th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, March 5th and Happy Birthday to Andy Gibb ***03.05.25 - BIRTHDAY – ANDY GIBB*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Early Voting in Cobb Commission Runoff Underway Cobb to Consider Gas Station, Drive-Thru on Austell Road Cobb and Douglas Public Health wants to expand services, but federal funding has grown more uncertain 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 5 STORY 1: Early Voting in Cobb Commission Runoff Underway Early voting for the March 11 runoff in Cobb County’s District 2 special primary election has begun, with Democrats Erick Allen and Dr. Jaha Howard competing for the seat formerly held by Jerica Richardson. Neither candidate secured over 50% in the February primary. Key voter concerns include zoning, transportation, and LGBTQ+ rights. Early voting runs through March 7 at two locations, with Election Day on March 11. The winner will face Republican Alicia Adams on April 28. The election redo, ordered after a court ruling on district maps, could cost taxpayers $1.5 million. STORY 2: Cobb to Consider Gas Station, Drive-Thru on Austell Road The Cobb County Planning Commission will review a proposal for a gas station, convenience store, retail spaces, and a drive-thru restaurant on Austell Road near Pat Mell Road. The 3.83-acre site will replace an existing water damage recovery business with two new buildings: a 5,000-square-foot convenience store with eight fuel stations and attached retail spaces, and a 2,200-square-foot fast-food restaurant. The convenience store will operate 24/7, while other spaces will run 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Zoning staff supports the plan, recommending a 20-foot landscape buffer and lighting plans to protect nearby residential areas. STORY 3: Cobb and Douglas Public Health wants to expand services, but federal funding has grown more uncertain Lisa Crossman, deputy director of Cobb and Douglas Public Health, is focused on improving health services in South Cobb, where many residents lack insurance, healthy food options, and mental health resources. Plans include a $17.5 million health center offering services like cancer screenings, mental health care, and a food pantry. Federal funding delays, including $3 million from Sen. Jon Ossoff, threaten the project’s timeline. Local nonprofits like Sweetwater Mission and the Center for Family Resources support the initiative, emphasizing its importance for underserved residents. Crossman is seeking alternative funding to avoid significant delays, aiming for a 2026 opening. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.    Break: STORY 4: The Avenue West Cobb kicks off spring with first ever Bloom Campaign The Avenue West Cobb in Marietta is hosting BLOOM, a month-long eco-friendly event series from March 15 to April 22, celebrating spring and sustainable living. Highlights include: - **World Water Day** (March 22): Free water bottles, goodie bags, and donations benefiting Pure Water for the World, with a $100 gift card giveaway. - **Spring Fashion Preview** (March 24-28): Showcasing spring collections from retailers like J. Jill and Altar’d State, with giveaways and promotions. - **Spring Festival** (April 17): Family-friendly activities like an Easter egg drop, scavenger hunt, face painting, and a petting farm. Local artist Sheena Yoe will also display her spring-inspired art collection. Visit avenuewestcobb.com/bloom for details. STORY 5: High Court Upholds Conviction of Mableton Murderer The Georgia Supreme Court upheld the murder conviction of David Nesbit, who fatally shot Gregory Gabriel during a 2020 altercation at a Mableton gas station. Nesbit initiated the dispute, firing the first shot, while Gabriel, unable to flee, was struck twice and later died. Nesbit fled the scene but was arrested over a week later, indicted in 2021, and sentenced to 35 years in 2022. His appeal for a new trial, citing ineffective counsel and alleged prosecutorial misconduct, was denied, with the Supreme Court affirming the conviction on Tuesday. Break: STORY 6: 'A Social Thing': New Wine Tasting Room Coming to Austell Divinely Elegant Vines, a wine tasting room and bottle shop in downtown Austell, will open on March 15. Founded by Jessena and Michael Waldo, the space offers 12 wine varietals, locally-sourced charcuterie, and an intimate, educational wine experience. The 1,000-square-foot venue features dark red and black decor, an outdoor patio, and events like wine tastings, classes, and live entertainment. The Waldos aim to foster community and share their passion for wine, with plans to expand in the future. The grand opening includes live music, food, and wine giveaways. Visit www.divinelyelegantvines.com for details. STORY 7: Georgia Senate Republicans pass religious freedom law, raising concerns about discrimination The Georgia Senate passed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (SB 36) on Tuesday in a 32-23 party-line vote. The bill requires courts to prioritize religious customs in disputes unless there’s a “compelling government interest.” Proponents, like Sen. Ed Setzler, argue it protects religious rights, citing cases from other states. Critics, including Sen. RaShaun Kemp, warn it could enable discrimination against LGBTQ individuals and others, as the bill lacks anti-discrimination protections. Similar legislation was vetoed in 2016 due to backlash from civil rights groups and businesses. SB 36 now heads to the Georgia House for consideration. Break: INGLES 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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.

* Grabs 147 Cobb County, GA (Dec 7, 2024) * Jake Rogers, Captain Sean Gray * https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SzbLMjyczK0 * Jake's first fire, second week on the job. * Residential fire right around the corner. * Basement fire with flames showing. * Initial plan was stretch 1.75” line, 30' setback to bravo side. * Met by woman at AB corner, screaming that her husband was inside. (Soot on her face) * In bed, disabled and had dementia, right inside front door to the left. * Pivoted to rescue mode and made entry in front door. * 15' down and 15' back from door. * No viz and hot * Cobb county uses feet against the wall. * Called out when he got to room, was quiet and heard groaning. Found Hospital bed with lots of blankets and victim. * Pulled victim to legs and then ground from the bed. 160-170 lbs * Wrist lock for removal and protected his head as best he could. * Went out using bottle against the wall until met by LT. LT lead him the rest of the way out. * Victim out before second due arrived. 1:30-2 min. * Passed victim off and continued with fire attack. * https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12Keugk3hwb5G-pJdMEmyVv2BPaochHgJ

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for February 28th Publish Date:  February 28th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, February 28th and Happy Birthday to Brian Jones 02.28.25 - BIRTHDAY – BRIAN JONES*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Mableton Man Receives Life for Killing Two Women in Fire Annual Bunny Breakfast is April 5 Sex Crime Accusations at Smyrna Mental Health Facility Under Investigation Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food 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: Mableton Man Receives Life for Killing Two Women in Fire Robert Colt Smith, 32, of Mableton, was sentenced to two life terms for setting a fire that killed Andrea Nall, 52, and Michelle Lacroix, 74, in March 2023. Convicted of felony murder, arson, and assault, Smith’s actions stemmed from a history of domestic violence against his then-girlfriend, Carolyn Parmalee. After violating a no-contact order and learning Nall sought to revoke his bond, Smith set fire to a vehicle outside her home, which spread to the house, killing the victims and eight pets. Cobb DA Sonya Allen emphasized the tragic escalation of domestic violence, while prosecutors highlighted the victims’ bravery in protecting their family. STORY 2: Annual Bunny Breakfast is April 5 The Kennesaw Parks & Rec Department will host its annual Bunny Breakfast, presented by iThink Financial, on April 5 at the Ben Robertson Community Center. Two seatings are available: 8–9:15 a.m. and 10–11:15 a.m. Guests can enjoy a buffet of pancakes, eggs, sausage, fruit, and sweets while the Easter Bunny visits for photos. Professional photos with a real bunny will also be offered. Tickets are $10 per person (free for children under 2 if seated on a lap) and must be purchased in advance by March 22. Tickets are non-refundable. STORY 3: Sex Crime Accusations at Smyrna Mental Health Facility Under Investigation Ridgeview Institute in Smyrna, a mental health and substance use treatment facility, is under investigation for multiple sex crime allegations, with 14 cases reported between January 2024 and February 2025. Seven cases remain open, involving victims aged 12 to 44 and suspects aged 12 to 62, all patients at the facility. Notable incidents include the arrest of 34-year-old patient Joshua Burney for rape and aggravated sodomy in July 2024. Smyrna police have responded to over 1,500 calls at Ridgeview since January 2024. Cobb DA Sonya Allen expressed concern and pledged to pursue justice as investigations continue. Ridgeview declined to comment. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: INGLES 5 STORY 4: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — Feb. 28 - March 2 This Saturday, Marietta the Gathering returns to Glover Park, celebrating pop culture with artists, games, and performances from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Georgia Beer Day also kicks off, featuring special pint glasses at over 70 breweries, with proceeds supporting the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild. Smyrna wraps up Black History Month Friday with a $30 dinner featuring playwright Kelundra Smith. March launches Cobb’s Bubbles & Brews, spotlighting local craft beverages with a BrewPass for prizes. Lastly, the Strand Theatre opens "The Last Five Years" Friday, a two-person musical exploring a relationship’s highs and lows. STORY 5: New Chief Justice a Cobb County Resident Georgia Supreme Court Presiding Justice Nels Peterson, a Marietta resident, has been unanimously elected as the court's next chief justice, succeeding Michael Boggs on April 1. Peterson, 46, was appointed to the court in 2016 and has since been re-elected for full terms. A Kennesaw State and Harvard Law graduate, Peterson has extensive legal experience, including roles as Georgia's first solicitor general and vice chancellor for the University System of Georgia. Justice Sarah Hawkins Warren was also elected as the next presiding justice. Peterson lives in Marietta with his wife and two children. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food *** INGLES ASK LEAH 5 FAST FOOD*** 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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for February 26th Publish Date:  February 26th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, February 26th and Happy Birthday to Johny Cash ***02.26.25 - BIRTHDAY – JOHNNY CASH*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb High School Coalition Hammers First Nails in Habitat Home KSU Students Call for Skybridge at Campus Intersection Taste of Marietta is April 27 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 3 STORY 1: Cobb High School Coalition Hammers First Nails in Habitat Home On Saturday, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, local high school students, and future homeowner David began building the first home of the season in Austell. This marks the 28th Habitat home built by students from five Cobb County high schools. David, a single father and U.S. Postal Service worker, is excited to create a safe, stable home for his two sons. Habitat CEO Kyle Huhtanen praised the students’ dedication, working nine Saturdays to help a local family. The project is supported by sponsors, donors, and volunteers, making David’s dream of homeownership a reality. STORY 2: KSU Students Call for Skybridge at Campus Intersection Following a tragic accident where KSU sophomore Alyssa Stringer lost her leg after being struck by a car, over 150 students have joined the BRIDGE initiative, co-founded by freshman Joshua Fowler, to improve pedestrian safety near campus. The group is advocating for a pedestrian skybridge at the dangerous Frey Road and Skip Spann Connector intersection, which has seen 150 crashes since 2019. While Cobb County oversees the intersection, officials are conducting a traffic study and have made signal adjustments. BRIDGE aims to push for long-term solutions, including the bridge, while exploring temporary safety measures. STORY 3: Taste of Marietta is April 27 Taste of Marietta, Cobb County’s largest food festival, returns April 27 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Marietta Square, celebrating its 30th year. Featuring over 50 restaurants, live music, a Kids’ Zone, chef spotlights, and a food competition, the event offers something for everyone. New additions include the Publix VIP Lounge with exclusive perks for $89 and the Georgia Grown Member Village showcasing local goods. Admission is free, with food prices ranging from $2 to $10. Over 50,000 attendees are expected. Visit tasteofmarietta.com for details. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.    Break: STORY 4: Kennesaw Man Charged with Murdering Mother A Kennesaw man, Daniel Sarris, 28, was arrested Monday and charged with murdering his mother, Melanie Sarris, 67. Cobb police discovered Melanie deceased at her home on Evian Way during a welfare check around 10:30 a.m. Daniel faces charges of aggravated assault and murder. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Cobb County Police Department at 770-499-3945. STORY 5: Cobb Schools Backing School Safety Bill The Cobb County School District supports House Bill 268, which aims to enhance school safety in Georgia. The bill proposes measures like an anonymous tip app, mandatory threat management teams, stricter punishments for terroristic threats, and tax incentives for safe gun storage. It also includes creating a statewide database for timely student data sharing between schools. While Cobb Schools back the bill, Assistant Superintendent Gretchen Walton is working with legislators to refine its language. Some Democratic lawmakers raised concerns about potential bias in the database and its impact on minority students. The bill remains under review in the House. Break: STORY 6: 19-Year-Old Arrested in Connection to Cumberland Shooting Cobb County Police arrested 19-year-old Trevon Clarence Thomas on Tuesday for allegedly shooting two men during a 5-year-old’s birthday party at Main Event near Cumberland Mall. Thomas reportedly fired a pistol, injuring Kai Greenwood and Kashif Walls, before fleeing the scene. Both victims sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized. Thomas, with a history of legal troubles, was charged with two counts of felony aggravated assault and weapon possession. Denied bond as a “danger to the community,” he remains in custody. His prior offenses include trespassing, assault, and illegal firearm possession. STORY 7: 8th Annual Adult Spelling Bee is March 14 at The Strand Theatre Communities in Schools of Georgia in Marietta/Cobb County will host the 8th Annual Adult Spelling Bee on March 14 at 7 p.m. at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. Proceeds support CIS’s mission to help over 27,000 students annually with academic and non-academic challenges, including financial literacy, workforce development, and graduation support. The event, known for its costumes and comedic antics, features teams competing for spelling and fundraising awards. Last year’s event raised over $100,000, with a goal of $125,000 this year. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $75 for VIP at earlsmithstrand.org. Break: 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 February 21st Publish Date:  February 21st    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, February 21st and Happy Birthday to Alan Rickman ***02.21.25 - BIRTHDAY – ALAN RICKMAN*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Court Clerk Plans to Return $84K in Passport Shipping Fees Historic McAfee House Sold for $1, will be Relocated Cobb Eyes 2026 SPLOST Vote Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oil 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: RINGLING BROS_FINAL STORY 1: Cobb Court Clerk Plans to Return $84K in Passport Shipping Fees Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor plans to refund nearly $84,000 in improperly collected passport shipping fees, a controversy stemming from her pocketing expedited shipping charges, which is not allowed under state law. This refund, pending board approval, follows years of scrutiny over Taylor’s collection of over $425,000 in passport fees as personal income. The issue also sparked a Georgia Bureau of Investigation probe and legislative efforts to increase transparency. Taylor’s office has faced additional criticism for severe dysfunction, including a botched software change in 2024 that disrupted court operations. Despite these challenges, Taylor was reelected in 2024. STORY 2: Historic McAfee House Sold for $1, will be Relocated The historic Robert McAfee house, built in the 1840s, will be relocated to Ball Ground, Georgia, after being sold for $1 by Cobb Landmarks to Lee and Brittani Lusk, experienced renovators of historic homes. The Lusks plan to restore the home as a private residence, adhering to historic preservation standards. The move, costing an estimated $75,000-$100,000, with renovations around $200,000, must be completed by May 15. Originally located in Cobb County, the house has significant historical value, including its use as a Civil War headquarters. A preservation easement will protect its historic integrity. STORY 3: Cobb Eyes 2026 SPLOST Vote Cobb County is considering a new 1% SPLOST package to fund infrastructure starting in 2028, with voters deciding in November 2026. The current $750 million SPLOST cycle ends in December 2027. Commissioners aim to finalize project lists by April 2026, focusing on road improvements, stormwater infrastructure, sidewalks, and community projects. Rising costs from inflation may push unfinished 2022 SPLOST projects into the new package. Public feedback sessions are planned for early 2026. If approved, the tax would continue funding critical county needs like transportation and parks. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  Break: STORY 4: Blackwell Farmers Market Opens April 5 The Blackwell Farmers Market at St. Andrew UMC in Marietta will kick off its 2025 season on April 5, running every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon through August 30. The market offers fresh, locally-sourced foods in a pet-friendly, inclusive setting with ample parking and restrooms. Vendor applications are now open for local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. For details, visit blackwellfarmersmarket.com or follow @blackwellfarmersmarket on social media. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — Feb. 21 - 23 This weekend, Cobb County offers exciting events for all ages! Jurassic Quest at Cobb Galleria features life-size animatronic dinosaurs, rides, and interactive experiences Friday through Sunday. The Strand Theatre presents Shakespeare’s *A Comedy of Errors* Friday evening for adults 21+, while Sunday showcases the silent film *Metropolis* with live organ accompaniment. Families can enjoy Children’s Day at the Gone With the Wind Museum on Saturday or a Black History Month scavenger hunt at Smyrna Public Library all weekend. Don’t miss these fun-filled activities! Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oil *** INGLES 1 'ASK LEAH' 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 Ringling Brothers #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 February 19th Publish Date:  February 19th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, February 19th and Happy Birthday to I’m Dan Ratcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Plans to Start Burning Sewage Sludge Again Cobb Inmate Accused of Identity Theft Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center Gallery to Host Quilt Exhibit 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: Ringling Bros STORY 1: Cobb Plans to Start Burning Sewage Sludge Again Cobb County plans to spend $70 million to retrofit and reactivate sludge incinerators at the R.L. Sutton Water Reclamation Facility, addressing rising landfill costs and limited disposal options. The incinerators, decommissioned in 2015 due to stricter EPA standards, will now meet updated guidelines, reducing sludge volume by 90%. Public concerns about emissions remain, but officials emphasize stricter monitoring and compliance. Alternatives like land application face scrutiny over potential health risks, while landfill costs have surged. Construction is set to begin in 2027, with public input sessions planned to address community concerns. STORY 2: Cobb Inmate Accused of Identity Theft Stephanie Leah Cherry, 22, of Austell, is accused of using a victim's Sheriff’s Office ID to access their Inmate Detention Account at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center, transferring funds to her own account between Dec. 16-25, 2024. She allegedly used the stolen funds for entertainment purchases. Cherry faces charges of identity theft and computer theft and is being held on an $8,000 bond. STORY 3: Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center Gallery to Host Quilt Exhibit The Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center in Marietta will host the East Cobb Quilters’ Guild’s “Make Your Own Masterpiece” challenge quilts exhibit from Feb. 27 to April 5. Featuring 28 quilts inspired by favorite works of art, the exhibit showcases members’ creativity and technical skills. Each quilt is accompanied by an artist’s statement detailing its inspiration. An opening reception is set for March 1, from 2 to 4 p.m., with gallery hours Monday through Saturday. 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 1 STORY 4: 'A Better Parent': Cobb Jail Inmates Graduate Parenting 101 Course Nine incarcerated mothers at the Cobb Jail graduated from the Parenting 101 course, part of the Realign Restart Initiative led by Sheriff Craig Owens. The nine-week program equips parents with skills to rebuild family dynamics post-release. This largest graduating class began with 35 participants, focusing on topics like family roles, cultural influences, and parenting strategies. Graduate Faith Williams highlighted how the course helped her maintain relationships with her children while incarcerated. The initiative also offers GED programs, anger management, and more, aiming to reduce recidivism. Chief Deputy Rhonda Anderson encouraged graduates to stay present in their children’s lives. STORY 5: Georgia Gas Prices Jump Georgia's average gas price has risen to $3.00 per gallon, with Cobb County slightly higher at $3.09, up 15 cents in two weeks, according to AAA. Seasonal refinery maintenance, a switch to summer fuel blends, and a California refinery outage are contributing to the increase. State prices are 6 cents higher than a month ago but 17 cents lower than last year. The most expensive metro areas include Atlanta ($3.06), while the cheapest are in Dalton ($2.91). AAA advises drivers to save by using fuel programs, paying with cash, and maintaining efficient driving habits. Break: STORY 6: Whataburger Withdraws Application for Atlanta Road Location Whataburger has withdrawn its request for a sixth Cobb County location on Atlanta Road near I-285. The fast food chain planned to combine two properties for the site but paused to reassess traffic impacts and community-requested design changes. Local residents, including those from West Village Smyrna, opposed the proposal, citing concerns over traffic, safety, noise, and property values. They suggested changes like reorienting the building and limiting hours. While residents are pleased with the withdrawal, Whataburger may reapply in the future. The chain currently operates three Cobb locations, with two more approved but not yet built. STORY 7: Cobb Approves Lost Mountain Road Subdivision The Cobb County Board of Commissioners approved a 27-home subdivision on Lost Mountain Road in a 4-0 vote. Traton Homes will develop the 40.5-acre lot, with 18 of the homes on the southern half requiring rezoning. Homes will range from 2,000 to 3,589 square feet, offering more affordable and varied housing options. To address neighbors' concerns, Traton agreed to a 50-foot buffer, a vinyl-coated chain link fence, and stormwater management measures. Commissioner Keli Gambrill praised the compromise, noting it was a better fit than previous proposals for the area. Break: Ringling Bros 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 Ringling Brothers #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 February 12th Publish Date:  February 12th    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, February 12th and Happy Birthday to Peter Gabriel ***02.12.25 - BIRTHDAY – PETER GABRIEL*** I’m Dan Ratcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Under Flood Watch Until Thursday Morning South Cobb Library Seeking $3 Million from State for Upgrades Erick Allen, Jaha Howard Headed for Runoff 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: Ringling Bros STORY 1: Cobb Under Flood Watch Until Thursday Morning Cobb County is under a flood watch until 7 a.m. Thursday due to heavy rainfall, with up to 4-5 inches expected by Thursday morning and additional showers through the weekend. Some areas could see 6-8 inches total. Cooler temperatures are forecasted due to "cold air damming," with highs in the 50s and 60s this week. The National Weather Service urges caution on roadways, especially at night, as heavy rain may cause limited visibility and potential road washouts. STORY 2: South Cobb Library Seeking $3 Million from State for Upgrades Cobb County is requesting $3 million from the state to expand the South Cobb Regional Library in Mableton. The $4.2 million project, with $1.2 million already locally funded, will add 5,000 square feet for community events, an expanded teen space, and a new computer lab. Opened in 2006, the library is heavily used, especially for computer access. State Rep. Terry Cummings emphasized the need for a larger, modern facility to better serve the community. The Cobb County Library System, with 15 branches and a $17 million budget, serves over 750,000 residents and boasts 418,000 active cardholders. STORY 3: Erick Allen, Jaha Howard Headed for Runoff The race for Cobb County’s District 2 Board of Commissioners seat heads to a runoff between Democrats Erick Allen and Dr. Jaha Howard, with Allen leading at 45.49% and Howard at 42.74%. The runoff is set for March 11, as no candidate secured over 50%. Republican Alicia Adams awaits the winner in the April 29 general election. The seat was vacated after former Commissioner Jerica Richardson was removed due to a court ruling on district maps. Low voter turnout marked the special primary, with only 3.74% of eligible voters participating. Early voting for the runoff begins March 3. 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: Ringling Bros STORY 4: New Cobb County Fire Chief Named The Cobb Board of Commissioners appointed Michael Cunningham as the new fire chief on Tuesday. A member of Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services since 2005, Cunningham has risen through the ranks to division chief and chief of staff. He succeeds retired Chief Bill Johnson and will earn an annual salary of $195,000. An Air Force veteran with extensive academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Cunningham expressed gratitude and excitement for leading the department. His appointment begins February 17, but he has already assumed interim duties. STORY 5: Austell Man Accused of Fleeing Police with Modified Gun Shakur King, 21, of Austell, was arrested on Feb. 5 after crossing Austell Road outside a crosswalk and fleeing from police near Wellstar Cobb Medical Center. Officers found King in possession of a Glock 21 modified to be fully automatic, which he is prohibited from carrying due to a pending felony charge for aggravated battery. King faces multiple charges, including unlawful firearm possession, obstruction, and crossing outside a crosswalk. He remains in custody without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. Break: STORY 6: Bubbles & Brews is March 1-31 Bubbles & Brews is a month-long celebration in March, showcasing Cobb County’s craft beverage makers. Visitors can explore 15 breweries, distilleries, and wineries along the Cobb Ale Trail using a free digital BrewPass to collect stamps and win prizes. Special events throughout the month will feature activities, themed giveaways, and opportunities to earn double stamps. Guests can also vote online for their favorite beverages and categories. For more details and to sign up for the BrewPass, visit bubblesandbrews.com. STORY 7: North Cobb Christian Students Win First Place in Congressional App Challenge Four North Cobb Christian School students—Kameron Fournillier, Jason Osborn, Nathan Stinson, and Jade Zebrowski—won first place in the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia’s 11th District with their app, CTrack. Designed to help users track expenses, create budgets, and make stock predictions using real-time data, the app was coded in Python. The Congressional App Challenge, a national competition encouraging STEM education, saw record participation this year with 12,682 students submitting 3,881 apps. The team will showcase CTrack at the House of Code Festival this summer. Break: Ingles Markets 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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for February 7th Publish Date:  February 7th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, February 7th and Happy Birthday to Garth Brooks ***02.07.25 - BIRTHDAY – GARTH BROOKS*** I’m Dan Ratcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia.  Man Accused of Hit and Run While Fleeing Police in Stolen Mercedes Marietta Man to Appear on "The Price Is Right" in Honor of Grandmother Cobb Inmate Accused of Possessing a Shank Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting 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: CU of GA (06.26.24 CU OF GA FREE CHECKING_REV_FINAL) STORY 1: Man Accused of Hit and Run While Fleeing Police in Stolen Mercedes Jeremiah Michael Mathurin, 24, of Auburn, was arrested after a hit-and-run incident on Jan. 30 in Marietta while fleeing police in a stolen 2020 Mercedes. Driving at 70-80 mph in a 35 mph zone, Mathurin ran a red light, collided with another vehicle, and fled on foot. Both vehicles were heavily damaged, and a Glock 19 was found in the Mercedes. Mathurin faces multiple charges, including theft, fleeing police, hit-and-run, and firearm possession during a crime. He was arrested that night and released on Feb. 1 on a $20,000 bond. STORY 2: Marietta Man to Appear on "The Price Is Right" in Honor of Grandmother Marietta resident Parker Branton, 30, fulfilled a lifelong dream on Thursday as he competed on “The Price Is Right,” honoring his late grandmother Judy, who inspired his love for the show. Growing up, Parker and his siblings watched the game show daily with Judy, who dreamed of attending a live taping. In fall 2024, Parker and his brother Sam traveled to California to fulfill that dream. Parker was selected to “come on down” during his first taping, an unforgettable moment he attributes to luck and his grandmother’s spirit. His episode aired Thursday at 11 a.m. on CBS and Paramount+. STORY 3: Cobb Inmate Accused of Possessing a Shank Emmanuel Torres Hernandez, 20, of Marietta, is accused of possessing a homemade weapon at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center on Jan. 27. The three-inch sharpened weapon was discovered in an air vent in his cell, wrapped in a sticker bearing his name and ID number. Hernandez faces charges for possessing prohibited items and remains in custody without bond. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break: DRAKE (Drake Realty (Cobb County) STORY 4: Cobb School Counselors Recognized for Outstanding Student Support Six Cobb schools earned top honors during National School Counseling Week for their exceptional programs, showcasing the theme “School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive.” Big Shanty Intermediate, Kemp Elementary, Hightower Trail Middle, Smitha Middle, Harrison High, and Walton High implemented innovative initiatives to boost student success. Highlights include Big Shanty’s 50% drop in discipline referrals through self-regulation lessons, Kemp’s 32% reduction via Morning Meetings, and Harrison’s 77% increase in passing rates for 9th-grade Hispanic students. These schools exemplify how strong counseling programs foster academic achievement, emotional growth, and positive school climates. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to Do This Weekend in Cobb County — Feb. 7- 9 - Atlanta Ballet's "The Rite of Spring": Experience the world premiere this Friday-Sunday at Cobb Energy Centre. Choreographed by Claudia Schreier, it features Stravinsky’s iconic score and Russian folklore-inspired dances. Tickets: $28-$150. - GMDT’s Dancing with the Stars: This Saturday at The Strand Theatre, local celebrities perform to support GMDT’s 2025-2026 season. The show starts at 7 p.m., tickets start at $60. - "GHOST: The Musical": Catch the final weekend of this romantic thriller at Marietta Theatre Company, Friday-Sunday. Tickets: $28-$52, showtime at 8 p.m. - Big Game Bash: Watch the Super Bowl on a 32-foot screen at Live! at the Battery Atlanta this Sunday. Pre-game fun includes a DJ and giveaways. General admission: $10 (21+ only). - A Victorian Wedding Exhibit: Visit the William Root House Friday-Sunday to see a display of 1860s wedding artifacts. Admission: $6-$9. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Break: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting *** INGLES ASK LEAH 3 BUDGETING*** 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: www.ingles-markets.com www.cuofga.org www.drakerealty.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.