Podcasts about community podcast

Top Stories for November 22nd Publish Date: November 22nd PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, November 22nd and Happy Birthday to Rodney Dangerfield I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. GBI arrests Braselton police chief on stalking charge Scarlett Rigsby’s nonprofit quietly battles weekend hunger for Gwinnett schoolchildren Mountain View naming recognition wall for former coach killed in Apalachee shooting 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 Mall of GA STORY 1: GBI arrests Braselton police chief on stalking charge Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman is out of a job—and facing serious charges. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested the 49-year-old on allegations of stalking, harassment, and misconduct, including misuse of license plate readers. According to the GBI, Steffman used the automated systems to stalk and harass multiple people. He’s now charged with stalking, harassing communications, violating his oath, and several counts of misusing the plate recognition system. Steffman resigned and retired after his arrest, though the city called it “personal reasons.” This comes just seven months after he was sworn in as permanent chief, following 20 years with the department. Braselton has named Zack Tiller as interim chief while the case moves forward. The GBI is asking anyone with information to contact their Athens office or submit tips anonymously online. STORY 2: Scarlett Rigsby’s nonprofit quietly battles weekend hunger for Gwinnett schoolchildren After nearly 20 years at the Gwinnett YMCA, Scarlett Rigsby’s job disappeared during the 2008 economic crash. She thought her next step would be another nonprofit—her work felt like a calling, a ministry. But starting her own? That wasn’t on the radar. Yet in 2010, with her Golden Retriever, Truth, by her side, she launched Nothing but the Truth in Lawrenceville. What began with feeding 15 kids at one school has grown into a lifeline for nearly 1,300 students across 50 schools, sending weekend food home in backpacks. “People used to say, ‘There aren’t hungry kids in Gwinnett.’ But there are,” Rigsby said. The nonprofit’s reach has expanded—reading programs, English classes, even “swag bags” for girls without period supplies. “It’s about meeting people where they are,” she said. Fifteen years in, Rigsby dreams of the next generation taking over. STORY 3: Mountain View naming recognition wall for former coach killed in Apalachee shooting One of the four victims of the tragic Apalachee High School shooting will soon be honored with a permanent memorial at the Gwinnett County school where he spent a decade teaching and coaching. The Gwinnett County Board of Education voted to name Mountain View High School’s track recognition wall after Ricky Aspinwall—known to students as “Coach A.” Aspinwall, who taught math and coached football and track, was killed in the September 2024 shooting in Barrow County. “Coach A left a legacy of integrity, service, and compassion,” wrote Mountain View School Council President Gail Devers. “Our community was deeply impacted by his loss.” The wall, which will display track records, will be a visible tribute during school events. 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 STORY 4: Man convicted of killing woman on Stone Mountain Highway A Stone Mountain man will spend the rest of his life in prison for the brutal murder of Breana Marie Rogers, a 33-year-old woman who had been living with him at a south Gwinnett hotel. Edward Rodley Smith Jr., 39, was convicted of malice murder and sentenced to life without parole for the October 2022 killing. “Breana tried to escape, and he hunted her down,” said Gwinnett DA Patsy Austin-Gatson. “We hope this verdict brings her family some measure of justice.” Rogers was shot four times—three in the back, once in the head—after fleeing their hotel. Witnesses reported hearing her yell, “I’m tired of this,” before Smith chased her down. Smith claimed self-defense, but the jury didn’t buy it, deliberating just 90 minutes before convicting him. STORY 5: Lawmakers consider ways to reduce chronic absenteeism Georgia students skipping too much school might soon face some tough consequences—like losing their driver’s licenses or getting benched from sports teams. That’s one of several ideas floated by a legislative study committee tackling the state’s growing absenteeism problem, which has only worsened since COVID. “It’s about the kids, but it’s also about Georgia’s economy and workforce,” said Sen. John F. Kennedy, who chaired the committee. The group’s recommendations include harsher penalties for chronic absences, but also more support for struggling families—like providing hygiene products, clothing, and even washing machines. One nonprofit leader shared heartbreaking stories: kids skipping school because they’re embarrassed by dirty clothes or the smell of bed-wetting siblings. Lawmakers also discussed banning cellphones in high schools and expanding mental health services, though the $34 million price tag for elementary school programs left some stunned. Break 3: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL STORY 6: 'Merry Mighty Mo and More!' returns to Fox Theatre Few holiday traditions in Atlanta feel as timeless as a Christmas sing-along with the Fox Theatre’s Mighty Mo—the second-largest theater organ in the country and a true piece of history. This year, the free *Merry Mighty Mo and More!* returns on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m., bringing festive cheer while celebrating the Fox’s opening day—Christmas 1929. Want to make it extra special? Snag access to the Marquee Club, where you’ll find pre-show bites, private restrooms, premium drinks, and even a visit from the Coca-Cola Polar Bear. The night includes sing-alongs led by organist Ken Double, photos with Santa, a performance by Like The Dickens, and a screening of *Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.* Guests are encouraged to “Bring Your Socks to the Fox” to support City of Refuge, an organization helping Atlanta families with housing, job training, and more. For details, visit foxtheatre.org. STORY 7: Legislation would expedite building approvals amid soaring home costs As housing costs keep climbing, builders are fed up with delays and red tape. Their solution? A push for stricter limits on how local governments handle construction permits. House Bill 812 would set hard deadlines for issuing permits—no more clock resets during plan reviews—and give the state power to block local building rules that go beyond Georgia’s minimum standards. But local officials aren’t buying it. They argue the real problem is sloppy, incomplete plans from developers. Environmentalists also raised alarms, warning that rushed approvals could lead to more pollution and poorly regulated construction. One called the proposed deadlines “crazy low.” Meanwhile, builders say the current system is broken, with one even complaining about mosquito prevention reviews. It’s a messy debate, and the stakes are high. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY 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 2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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 November 21st Publish Date:  November 21st    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, November 21st and Happy Birthday to Stan The Man Musial I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb targets millions in federal funds to counter drones, boost World Cup security Smyrna denies five-story apartment building Interrogation videos highlight third day of trial for man accused of killing Acworth neighbors Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 10 STORY 1: Cobb targets millions in federal funds to counter drones, boost World Cup security  Next summer, Cobb County will play host to international soccer teams prepping for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the biggest sporting events ever. With Atlanta set to host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Cobb will handle training, transportation, and fan events. But with that comes challenges—crowds, security, and logistics. To prepare, county officials are asking for Homeland Security grants to boost safety measures, including $7.5–$12 million for drone detection tech. Training sites? Atlanta United’s grounds in Marietta, KSU’s Fifth Third Stadium, and possibly Pace Academy. “The more popular the team, the bigger the crowds,” said Cobb EMA Director Cassie Mazloom. STORY 2: Smyrna denies five-story apartment building  The Smyrna City Council shot down a rezoning request for a 250-unit apartment complex this week, with a 5-2 vote against the proposal. Wood Partners South Acquisitions LLC had pitched a five-story mixed-use development on 6.7 acres along Highlands Parkway, near Technology Court. The plan included 250 apartments—mostly one- and two-bedroom units—plus retail space, a pool, and a courtyard. Councilwoman Latonia Hines acknowledged the project’s quality but questioned the location. “It’s a great development—just not here,” she said. The Planning Board and city staff had already recommended denial, citing conflicts with the area’s industrial zoning. STORY 3: Interrogation videos highlight third day of trial for man accused of killing Acworth neighbors On the third day of Matthew Lanz’s murder trial, the defense finally had its turn. Lanz, now 26, sat quietly in a green jumpsuit, his hair unkempt, his face hidden behind a scruffy beard. Prosecutors played interrogation videos from 2021, where Lanz, then 22, denied killing his neighbors, Justin and Amber Hicks. “I didn’t murder them,” he said. “Someone murdered them.” The Hicks, both 31, were found shot to death in their home, their two-year-old son unharmed nearby. Lanz is accused of breaking in through a back window and pulling the trigger. The trial, a bench trial at the defense’s request, will hinge on Judge Sonja Brown’s decision. Prosecutors rested their case Wednesday, leaving the defense to decide if Lanz will testify. In one chilling video, Lanz asked police if Amber Hicks had been pregnant. She wasn’t, but his comment left the courtroom uneasy. 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 4: State Senate election appears headed toward runoff  It looks like Democrats Jaha Howard and Roger Bruce are headed for a runoff in the special election to fill the state Senate seat vacated by Jason Esteves. Unofficial results show Howard leading with 32.6% of the vote, followed by Bruce at 25.4%. The six-candidate race was a whirlwind, with just over a month to campaign. “We had to gear up in days,” Howard said, calling the campaign a “faith journey.” Bruce, a Capitol veteran with 22 years in the Georgia House, leaned on endorsements from big names like former Gov. Roy Barnes. The runoff is set for Dec. 16. STORY 5: Smyrna limits vape shop locations, approves Tolleson Aquatic Center contract This week, Smyrna’s City Council cracked down on vape shops, unanimously passing an ordinance to define and restrict them. “Right now, they’re just lumped in with general retail,” said Community Development Director Rusty Martin. “This lets us set some boundaries.” The new rules? Vape shops—defined as retailers primarily selling alternative nicotine or vapor products—can’t open within 1,000 feet of another vape shop, schools, or daycares. In other council news, Arrow Waste got the green light (6-1) for a temporary office on Riverview Road, despite concerns about a nearby fuel tank. Also approved: a $16.23M contract for the Tolleson Aquatic Center, set to open in 2027. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 21st Publish Date: November 21st   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 21st and Happy Birthday to Stan The Man Musial I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Greater Church giving away free turkeys and groceries Sunday Woodstock joins Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Greater Church giving away free turkeys and groceries Sunday Greater Church is spreading some holiday cheer this Sunday with a giveaway of 300 turkeys and grocery bags. The event, part of their annual Friendsgiving, kicks off after the 11:15 a.m. service at 5744 Bells Ferry Road. While attending the service isn’t required, it guarantees you’ll snag a turkey and groceries—one per family, first come, first served. No ID needed, just show up and register onsite for food bank records. Supplies are limited, so don’t wait too long! Greater Church also runs a food pantry on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. For details, visit www.greater.church/FRIENDSGIVING. STORY 2: Woodstock joins Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority Woodstock has officially joined the Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority, following a unanimous vote by the city council on Nov. 17. A land bank, for those unfamiliar, is a tool to redevelop abandoned or blighted properties—no eminent domain involved. It can accept property donations, acquire land, and work with nonprofits or private groups to create affordable housing or boost economic development. Cherokee County and Canton formed the authority in August, and now Woodstock is on board. Holly Springs is still considering joining, with a decision expected next month. The land bank’s board includes representatives from each member jurisdiction, plus appointees from the Cherokee Office of Economic Development and at-large members. Woodstock will appoint its representative in December. Board meetings will be public, and jurisdictions will get advance notice of any property acquisitions. STORY 3: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Georgia lawmakers are seriously talking about ditching the state income tax—$16 billion worth of revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions. Bold move, right? “It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. “This is about staying competitive.” Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer called income taxes “growth killers” and praised states like Tennessee for ditching them. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned that sales taxes—often the fallback—hit low-income folks and retirees hardest. The debate? Far from over. Stay tuned. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 3 STORY 4: Warriors withstand late rally, knock off Knights  Even with a few key players sidelined, Cherokee stayed unbeaten Tuesday night, grinding out a 65-46 win over River Ridge. But don’t let the final score fool you—this one got tight late. Cherokee (2-0), missing standout forward Sean Hamilton, saw a 20-point fourth-quarter lead shrink to 10 with just over two minutes left. But the Warriors clamped down defensively, holding River Ridge to one basket the rest of the way. “We started strong, but we’ve got to play a full game,” said Cherokee coach Joe Veihman. “We got sloppy in the second half—missed chances, gave them open looks. Still, we’re learning.” River Ridge (1-1), led by new coach LeRonnice Davis, showed fight despite the loss. “The little things killed us—rebounds, free throws, turnovers,” Davis said. “But we battled. These games will make us better.” Braylon Luster poured in 30 points for Cherokee, while Brandon Flint led River Ridge with 27, including six threes. Next up: Cherokee heads to Creekview and River Ridge visits Etowah. STORY 5: 2 sentenced for 3-hour Cherokee County armed SWAT standoff Two men are headed to prison after pleading guilty to charges stemming from a tense, hours-long armed standoff with law enforcement in Ball Ground back in 2021. Jeffrey Leighton Danner, 35, of Alabama, pleaded guilty but mentally ill to multiple charges, including aggravated assault on officers. He was sentenced to 50 years, with 20 behind bars. Kaleb Hunter Kirkland, 27, also from Alabama, pleaded guilty earlier this year and received the same sentence—though he’ll serve 25 years in confinement. It all started on Feb. 28, 2021, when police spotted a vehicle tied to violent crimes in Alabama. A chase ensued, ending in the woods. Shots were fired at officers (thankfully, no injuries), and SWAT was called in. Kirkland, armed with a rifle, was shot after ignoring commands, while Danner was arrested without incident. “These sentences hold them fully accountable,” said District Attorney Susan Treadaway, praising law enforcement’s bravery. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice Commercial: 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 Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 20th Publish Date: November 20th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, November 20th and Happy birthday to Bobby Kennedy I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Piedmont Eastside and Piedmont Oncology welcome medical oncologist Sami Ali Gwinnett commissioners to issue bonds for Gas South Arena renovations Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts  Georgia lawmakers are seriously considering wiping out the state income tax—$16 billion in revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions. “It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. He called it a move for “competitiveness.” Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer praised states like Tennessee for thriving without income taxes, calling it “really cool” not to file returns. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned it could hit low-income families and retirees hardest, especially if sales taxes rise. The debate? Far from settled. STORY 2: Piedmont Eastside and Piedmont Oncology welcome medical oncologist Sami Ali  Piedmont Eastside Medical Center and Piedmont Oncology are thrilled to welcome Dr. Sami Ali to their team. Dr. Ali, a board-certified hematologist and oncologist, brings years of experience treating patients with lung cancer, colorectal cancer, blood disorders, and more. Before joining Piedmont, Dr. Ali spent eight years at The Oncology Institute in Los Angeles, where he provided personalized care, led treatment plans, and contributed to clinical research. “We’re excited to have him,” said Larry Ebert, Piedmont Eastside’s CEO. “His expertise will help us expand cancer care in Gwinnett County.” Dr. Ali is now accepting new patients. For appointments, visit Piedmont.org or call 678-639-3950. STORY 3: Gwinnett commissioners to issue bonds for Gas South Arena renovations   Gwinnett County commissioners took a big step Tuesday toward funding a major facelift for the 23-year-old Gas South Arena. The plan? Revenue bonds—up to $172 million worth—to cover renovations like new seating, upgraded security, better concessions, and even a shiny new parking deck. The total cost? Somewhere between $170 and $176 million. The county might chip in $40 million to ease the debt load, according to Financial Services Director Russell Royal. What’s changing? Think premium seating, revamped suites, modernized restrooms, grab-and-go food, and a high-tech security plaza. Oh, and the roof, HVAC, and electrical systems? All getting replaced. 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: Georgia Gwinnett College celebrates International Education Week   Georgia Gwinnett College turned International Education Week into a colorful, culture-packed celebration that brought the world to campus. From Nov. 10, students and staff dove into 14 events—everything from global traditions to study-abroad opportunities. The highlight? A visit from Lithuania’s Consul General, DOH-vee-dahs Dovydas shpo-KOW-skas Špokauskas, who spoke on diplomacy and security, thanks to professor DOH-vee-leh Dovilė boo-DREE-teh Budryte. Korean culture stole the show at Seoul Connections, with K-Pop, snacks, and games filling the room. And the International Thanksgiving? A feast of global flavors, live music, and a cultural fashion show. The week wrapped with poetry, music, and a reminder: the world’s waiting—go explore it. STORY 5: Gwinnett waiving tax penalties for residents impacted by government shutdown Gwinnett County is throwing a lifeline to residents hit hard by the recent federal shutdown. On Tuesday, commissioners gave Tax Commissioner Denise Mitchell the green light to waive penalties and interest on late ad valorem taxes for those furloughed or who lost SNAP benefits during the chaos. “Georgia law lets me waive penalties for reasonable cause,” Mitchell explained. “And over the past few weeks, I’ve heard from residents struggling to pay their bills because of the shutdown.” This doesn’t erase the taxes—just the late fees. To qualify, folks need proof of furlough or lost benefits, and the waiver only covers bills due during or shortly after the shutdown. We’ll be right back. Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice Break 4: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 8 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 Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill 2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Scrum.org Community Podcast episode, host Dave West speaks with Nathaniel Davis, CEO of Barrel One Collective, and PST Yuval Yeret about applying Agile principles beyond software — into the heart of business operations.Nathaniel shares his journey from working in a large brewing company to leading Barrel One Collective, a brewing group where he's working to make Agile the foundation for innovation and entrepreneurialism. Together, they explore how Agile thinking can balance experimentation and consistency, drive outcome-oriented leadership, and shape company culture as a product.Tune in to hear how organizations can expand their definition of “product” — from beverages to behaviors — and how agility helps leaders continuously learn, adapt, and deliver value.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 19th Publish Date:  November 19th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, November 19th and Happy Birthday to Meg Ryan I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts As Cobb school board approves new buses, Ragsdale pushes back on criticism Cobb’s new Renaissance Fair becomes instant hit with festival-goers 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: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Georgia lawmakers are seriously talking about ditching the state income tax—$16 billion worth of revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions. “It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. He called it a move for “competitiveness.” Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer praised states like Tennessee for thriving without income taxes, calling it “really cool” not to file returns. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned it could hit low-income families and retirees hardest, especially if sales taxes rise. The debate? Far from over. STORY 2: As Cobb school board approves new buses, Ragsdale pushes back on criticism Tensions ran high Thursday as Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale defended the district’s transportation department amid ongoing criticism of bus safety and maintenance. “There are no unsafe buses on the roads. Period. Zero,” Ragsdale said, calling claims to the contrary “untrue and unacceptable.” The school board approved $4.97 million for 30 new buses, but public commenters weren’t buying the reassurances. Mechanics like Eric Carroll, a 14-year employee, pushed back hard. “We’re not liars,” he said, visibly emotional. “We need help.” Meanwhile, Ragsdale dismissed the concerns as fearmongering, sparking outrage from workers who say they’re overworked, understaffed, and unheard. The investigation? Still ongoing. STORY 3: Cobb’s new Renaissance Fair becomes instant hit with festival-goers  The 16th century came alive Saturday at Cobb’s first-ever Big Shanty Bazaar, and honestly? It was a hit. By the time the gates opened at The Big Shanty Art Station, over 100 people were already lined up, many decked out in Renaissance garb or fantasy costumes—dragons, wizards, you name it. “It’s way more than I expected,” said organizer Roxanne Thompson. “I was hoping for maybe a thousand all day, but this? Wow.” The festival had it all: axe throwing, pony rides, blacksmith demos, and an artisan market selling everything from D&D dice to handmade cloaks. The vibes? Impeccable. 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 4: Cobb NAACP holds annual awards gala The Cobb NAACP’s 46th annual Oscar Freeman Freedom Fund Awards Gala brought together community leaders, elected officials, and trailblazers Saturday night for an evening of celebration, reflection, and a little dancing. The event featured a reception, silent auction, dinner, and awards ceremony. Civil rights pioneer Deane Bonner, a cornerstone of the Cobb NAACP, was front and center—dancing, speaking, and inspiring. Honorees included Rev. Joe Evans, named Religious Leader of the Year, and countless others who’ve shaped the community. “It’s about honoring the past while building the future,” said organizer Jeriene Bonner-Willis. STORY 5: Cobb reallocates $2.96M for food distribution, South Cobb Public Health Center  Cobb commissioners just gave the green light to reallocate nearly $3 million in unspent federal COVID relief funds, aiming to boost food distribution programs and help fund the long-awaited South Cobb Public Health Center. Of the $2.96 million, $206,000 will go to local nonprofits like MUST Ministries and Sweetwater Mission, which have been struggling to meet surging demand for food assistance. “This will help families get through the holidays,” said Chair Lisa Cupid. The remaining $2.75 million, saved from a bridge project, will go toward the health center, a critical project for South Cobb residents that’s been years in the making. Break: STORY 6: “Stuff the Turkey” donation event collects 1,000 items for locals in need   The Goddard School of Vinings recently held its “Stuff the Turkey” drive, and wow, did the community show up. Located on Log Cabin Drive, the school collected over 1,000 items—canned goods, diapers, hygiene products, you name it. All donations went to 7 Bridges to Recovery, a local nonprofit helping women, kids, and those facing homelessness in Atlanta. “It’s incredible to see what we can do together,” a school representative said. Want to learn more about their efforts (or maybe help out next time)? Check out their website. Small acts, big impact—every bit counts. STORY 7: Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter builds and donates Chad’s Bracket Wagons  The Fielding Lewis Chapter of the DAR recently rolled up their sleeves for the D building nine bright red Chad’s Bracket wagons—specialized hospital wagons designed to make life a little easier (and safer) for kids in hospitals. This wasn’t just any project. Volunteers worked alongside Roger Leggett, the founder of Chad’s Bracket, whose mission began after a heartbreaking loss: his son Chad, an EMT, passed away at 24. Inspired by Chad’s compassion, Leggett created these wagons, which now bring comfort to kids nationwide. “These wagons may seem simple, but they’re life-changing,” said Chapter Regent Melissa Tanner. 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 Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 18th Publish Date: November 18th PRE-ROLL: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, November 18th and Happy Birthday to astronaut Allan Shepard I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. The Sandwich Project celebrates milestones and welcomes new executive director Norcross receives international award for branding efforts Elementary and middle school cellphone bans proving popular, as debate moves to high schools 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 Mall of Georgia STORY 1: The Sandwich Project celebrates milestones and welcomes new executive director Before the latest government shutdown even hit, the Sandwich Project was already out there—quietly, relentlessly—feeding Atlanta’s hungry. This grassroots nonprofit, born in the chaos of 2020, has now delivered over 2.2 million sandwiches across metro Atlanta. Two million sandwiches. Let that sink in. And now, they’ve got their first executive director: Christine Cooper Nowicki, a longtime volunteer with a heart for service. “This wasn’t something I saw coming,” she admits, “but food insecurity has always been personal for me.” Every week, volunteers—families, Girl Scouts, Rotary Clubs—make 8,000 sandwiches. It’s messy, beautiful, and life-changing work. Learn more at thesandwichproject.org. STORY 2: Norcross receives international award for branding efforts Norcross just snagged a Silver Davey Award—pretty impressive, right? Out of 2,000+ global entries, this small-but-mighty city was recognized for its killer branding and communication efforts in the Government and Municipal category. The secret sauce? A partnership with Lawrenceville’s Accent Creative Group, the creative minds behind Norcross’ ads, event logos, social media, and more. “Our brand isn’t just a look,” said Mayor Craig Newton. “It’s how we tell our story.” The Davey Awards celebrate big ideas on small budgets, and Norcross nailed it—showcasing a community alive with culture, creativity, and connection. Not bad for a little city with big heart. STORY 3: Elementary and middle school cellphone bans proving popular, as debate moves to high schools Georgia high schools might soon say goodbye to cellphones, following the success of bans already in place at some schools. Starting next fall, a new law will require elementary and middle schools to lock up phones during the day. High schools aren’t included—yet. But with 92% of teachers supporting the idea, according to a Georgia Southern University survey, the push is gaining momentum. At Lakeside High in DeKalb, Principal Susan Stoddard said banning phones was a game-changer: “You heard kids talking again—actual conversations in the hallways.” Still, some parents worry about emergencies. Lawmakers? Divided. But this debate isn’t over. Not even close. 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 7- Sugar Hill Holiday STORY 4: Agency seeks more power to enforce campaign finance law Georgia’s election finance watchdog wants sharper teeth, and lawmakers might just hand them over. The State Ethics Commission says it needs more power to investigate campaign finance violations—like the $300,000 fine it slapped on Stacey Abrams’ nonprofit earlier this year for failing to disclose millions in donations and spending. Sen. Bill Cowsert, who’s running for attorney general, is leading the charge. “We need transparency,” he said. “Big money shouldn’t dominate politics.” But critics call it political theater, especially with Fulton DA Fani Willis now in the committee’s crosshairs. Meanwhile, the Ethics Commission says it’s hamstrung without stronger subpoena powers. The fight’s far from over. STORY 5: Corps of Engineers says below normal rainfall could make Lake Lanier hazardous Lake Lanier’s water level is holding steady—for now. As of last week, it sat at 1,065.51 feet, just a hair above the historic median of 1,065.39 feet for this time of year. But here’s the catch: rainfall’s been scarce lately, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is keeping a close watch. “The dry spell could mean lower levels ahead,” said Dustin Gautney from the Corps. And with Lanier’s hidden hazards—tree stumps, old roadbeds, even remnants of submerged towns—boaters and swimmers need to stay sharp. The advice? Wear your life jacket, watch for obstacles, and stay safe out there. We’ll be right back. Break 3: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Final STORY 6: Loganville shooting suspect arrested in Lawrenceville A chaotic Friday afternoon unfolded as a shooting at a Loganville CVS ended with an arrest in downtown Lawrenceville. Loganville police issued a BOLO alert around 4 p.m. for a vehicle tied to a “serious incident” at the CVS on Atlanta Highway, where a woman had been shot in the head. Critical condition. No name released. Lawrenceville’s FLOCK cameras flagged the car near the Square. Officers swarmed West Crogan Street, shields up, and arrested the driver without a fight. The suspect’s name? Still under wraps. The victim? Airlifted to Grady. It’s a mess, and the investigation is ongoing. STORY 7: State raises red flags in Gwinnett Schools' CCRPI report Gwinnett County Public Schools is celebrating some wins in college and career readiness—but the state’s latest report card tells a more complicated story. Sure, GCPS outperformed Georgia in seven areas, mostly in elementary and middle schools. But high schools? They’re lagging. The only bright spot there is content mastery. And across all levels, the district is struggling to close gaps, especially in English Language Arts. Red flags? Plenty. Targets missed for multiple demographics—African-American, Hispanic, economically disadvantaged, and more. Progress scores for high schools dropped by over 10 points. The takeaway? There’s work to do. Wins are great, but gaps can’t be ignored. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: STRAND THEATRE 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill 2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest edition of the "Your Community" Podcast: Purdue Extension has launched a new Community Development program called "Building Stronger Boards"—which is a workshop for community members who want to become more effective in their roles and responsibilities as nonprofit board members. Steve Yoder, Community Development Regional Educator, shares more about the program. "Your Community" is one of the new podcasts available as Hoosier Ag Today Presents YOUR Purdue Extension Podcast Network!

Top Stories for November 15th Publish Date: November 15th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, November 15th and Happy Birthday to Macho Man Randy Savage I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Six finalists named for GCPS Teacher of the Year Housing Matters: Car club to deliver food, clothes to the homeless John McCutcheon to headline 'A Song for Ukraine' benefit concert in Lawrenceville 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 Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Six finalists named for GCPS Teacher of the Year And then there were six. From 141 local honorees to 25 semifinalists, Gwinnett County has narrowed it down to six incredible educators vying for the 2027 Teacher of the Year title. These finalists—representing elementary, middle, and high schools—are more than just teachers. They’re innovators, mentors, and champions for their students. Whether it’s Tram Nguyen, Stephanie Guynn, Dr. Lisa Babbage, Austin Hannon, Dr. Candice Richardson or Batavia Sumlin, each finalist brings something extraordinary to the table. The winner will be announced Jan. 29 at a district celebration. Until then, these six are already heroes in their classrooms. STORY 2: Housing Matters: Car club to deliver food, clothes to the homeless Sky-high prices and relentless demand have left too many Gwinnett residents stuck—some in overpriced hotels, others with nowhere to go. It’s heartbreaking. Cruising for a Cause This Sunday, Nov. 16, the Sinnerz Society car club is doing more than flexing their rides—they’re delivering food, warm clothes, and supplies to the homeless. Founder Rafael Diaz says, “It won’t last long, but it’s something.” The group meets at 12:30 p.m. at the BP on Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth. Got a car? Great. Don’t? Doesn’t matter—just join. The caravan rolls out at 1:30. Follow @sinnerzsociety on Instagram for updates. STORY 3: John McCutcheon to headline 'A Song for Ukraine' benefit concert in Lawrenceville Grammy-nominated folk legend John McCutcheon is bringing his music—and his heart—to the Lawrenceville Arts Center on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 5 p.m. for A Song for Ukraine, a benefit concert unlike any other. Partnering with HelpingUkraine.US, McCutcheon aims to raise funds for displaced Ukrainian children. “This is more than a concert,” he said. “It’s about hope, resilience, and standing together.” The evening will also feature Ukrainian bandura player Olena Kovban, a child vocalist, and an art sale showcasing works created by children in Kharkiv’s underground shelters. Tickets start at $50, with VIP options available. Proceeds go directly to humanitarian aid. 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 STORY 4: Mall of Georgia to host Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday Santa’s already made himself comfy at the Mall of Georgia, but the real holiday magic kicks off tonight with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. From 5 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 15, expect festive chaos: the Grinch, Papa Elf, live reindeer, face painting, crafts, and even Bubbles Over GA. The tree lights up at 7 p.m., followed by a cozy outdoor screening of *The Polar Express*. And, of course, Santa’s ready for his close-up. The Santa Photo Experience runs through Dec. 24 (hours vary). Got pets? Bring them for photos on Nov. 23, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Special needs families can reserve a sensory-friendly session on Nov. 23, 8:30–10 a.m. STORY 5: Power of Impact Gala & Awards to celebrate small business growth across Gwinnett Mark your calendars: the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation’s first-ever *Power of Impact Gala & Awards* is happening Dec. 3 at Bear’s Best Suwanee. The night kicks off with a 6 p.m. reception, followed by dinner and awards at 7. It’s all about celebrating the small businesses and leaders driving Gwinnett’s growth—and proceeds go straight to supporting the Foundation’s mission of helping local businesses scale and thrive. Honorees include Dr. William “Bill” Russell (Legacy Leader) and Georgia Power (Corporate Champion). Tickets and sponsorships are available now at GwinnettChamberFoundation.org/PowerofImpact. Don’t miss it! Break 3: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL STORY 6: Study: Gwinnett Library delivers big value to community The Gwinnett County Public Library isn’t just a place for books—it’s a powerhouse of community impact. A new study from UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government found the library delivers $92.5 million in benefits, turning every $1 of public funding into $3.40 of value. Think about it: 3.5 million checkouts, 240,000 program attendees, 1.4 million Wi-Fi connections, and over 13,000 uses of meeting rooms. From job applications to tutoring sessions, it’s a lifeline for so many. “Every dollar multiplies into real outcomes,” said Executive Director Charles Pace. Stronger families, smarter students, connected communities—it all starts here. Learn more at gwinnettlibrary.com. STORY 7: Georgia Gwinnett College to offer first master's degree Big news for Georgia Gwinnett College: the Board of Regents just gave the green light for GGC’s first-ever graduate program—a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education. Classes could kick off as early as spring 2027, pending final approval. “This is huge,” said GGC President Dr. Jann L. Joseph. “We’re not just offering affordable bachelor’s degrees anymore—we’re stepping up to meet the demand for skilled, well-prepared teachers.” With Gwinnett County Public Schools hiring 92% of GGC’s education grads, this new program is set to make waves, opening doors for students, alumni, and career changers alike. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY 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 2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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 November 14th Publish Date:  November 14th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, November 14th and Happy Birthday to Alec John Such I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal GHC has highest enrollment growth among state colleges Cobb Sheriff’s Lt. Col. Dewayne Morris laid to rest after lifetime of public service Cobb’s proposed stormwater fee receives mild criticism Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides 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: MATCH MAGIC GIVEATHON STORY 1: GHC has highest enrollment growth among state colleges  Georgia Highlands College is on a roll. Over the past three years, enrollment has jumped 23%, now nearing 6,000 students—a record-breaking pace that’s earned GHC top honors from the USG Board of Regents for the fastest growth among state colleges. “This growth shows how deeply connected we are to the communities we serve,” said President Mike Hobbs. “As Northwest Georgia grows, we’re here to prepare graduates for meaningful careers and help businesses thrive.” Statewide, the University System of Georgia hit an all-time high this fall with 382,142 students, driven by a surge in in-state enrollment. Ready to join? Apply by January at apply.highlands.edu. STORY 2: Cobb Sheriff’s Lt. Col. Dewayne Morris laid to rest after lifetime of public service  Dewayne Morris, a man who lived and breathed public service, was laid to rest Tuesday after passing on Nov. 7 at the age of 63. A lieutenant colonel with the Cobb Sheriff’s Office and a retired sergeant from Cobb County Police, Morris dedicated his life to law enforcement. From his early days at Powder Springs PD to his decades with Cobb Police—where he earned two Meritorious Service medals—he was known for his leadership, grit, and heart. But Dewayne wasn’t just a cop. He loved fast cars, Diet Mountain Dew, Little Debbies, and cheering for the Braves and Hawks. He never met a stranger. A true hero. STORY 3: Cobb’s proposed stormwater fee receives mild criticism  Cobb County’s proposed $4.75 monthly stormwater fee is back on the table, but this time, the backlash is quieter—at least for now. Last year, the idea sparked packed meetings and fiery opposition. This week? A handful of speakers, mostly supportive or cautiously critical. The fee would nearly double the stormwater budget, funding overdue repairs, new equipment, and even regional detention projects. Homeowners would pay $4.75 a month, while businesses, churches, and schools would be charged based on impervious surfaces. Critics still call it a “tax,” and some HOAs argue they’re being double-billed. A final vote is set for Nov. 20. 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 4: Peer-led mental health center coming to Marietta’s First Presbyterian A new drop-in mental health center is set to open at First Presbyterian Church near Marietta Square, offering something rare: a space for connection, not just treatment. Run by NAMI Cobb, the center will focus on peer-led therapy—think group activities, coffee chats, and one-on-one support with trained specialists who’ve been there. “It’s about community,” said Neill Blake, NAMI Cobb’s programs director. “Sometimes, just coffee and conversation can be life-changing.” Opening early next year, the free center will feature art therapy, games, meditation, and more. For those battling isolation, it’s a lifeline. “Loneliness makes everything worse,” Blake added. “This could save lives.” STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Nov. 14 - 16 Atlanta Opera: ‘La Traviata’ This weekend’s your last chance to catch Verdi’s La Traviata at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:30 p.m. It’s sung in Italian (don’t worry, there are subtitles) and runs about 2.5 hours. Tickets start at $35—grab yours at atlantaopera.org. World of Illumination: Candy Rush Six Flags White Water in Marietta transforms into a glowing wonderland starting Friday! The World of Illumination’s Candy Rush drive-thru features gingerbread villages, sugar plum fairies, and more. Open select nights through Jan. 4, 6–10 p.m. Tickets: $39–$49. Details at their website. ‘Sanders Family Christmas’ at The Strand The Strand Theatre’s Sanders Family Christmas continues this weekend. Expect music, laughs, and a little inspiration with Pastor Oglethorpe and the Sanders Family. Shows: Friday/Saturday at 3 & 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets: $41–$54. Big Shanty Bazaar Step into the Renaissance this Saturday at Kennesaw’s Art Station! From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy artisans, live music, axe throwing, archery, and even pony rides. Free admission, plus early visitors snag commemorative gifts. NFC Fight Night at The Battery Ready for some action? Live MMA fights hit The Battery Atlanta this Friday. Doors open at 6 p.m., fights start at 7. Check the Battery’s website for details. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides 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 Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre Cobb Foundation | Nonprofit Empowerment and Collective Giving in Cobb Cobb See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 14th Publish Date: November 14th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 14th and Happy Birthday to Alec John Such I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton hears from residents on proposed 28-home neighborhood Retired Cherokee County firefighter dies after cancer battle Wellstar opens new GI clinic at Cherokee Health Park Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Canton hears from residents on proposed 28-home neighborhood The Canton City Council is set to vote Dec. 4 on a proposal to build a 28-home subdivision on Fate Conn Road, but not without some serious pushback from locals. At a Nov. 6 public hearing, residents raised concerns about traffic, flooding, and the loss of greenspace. Earl Darby didn’t hold back: “We’ve had fatalities on that road... we don’t need more cars until there’s a plan to fix it.” Others echoed worries about stormwater runoff and privacy buffers. The developer, Legacy Design and Development, says they’ll address runoff with a stormwater system, but specifics? Still TBD. STORY 2: Retired Cherokee County firefighter dies after cancer battle Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services is grieving the loss of retired Lt. Dave Burnaugh, who passed away after a relentless fight with cancer. Burnaugh, who retired in September, was diagnosed in 2022 with a Stage 3 brain tumor and a Stage 1 kidney tumor. Despite the odds, he returned to duty last summer after 10 months, greeted by a hero’s welcome from his CCFES family and beyond. Known for his faith, humility, and unwavering dedication, Burnaugh mentored countless firefighters during his nearly two decades of service. His legacy? It’s one of compassion, leadership, and love. STORY 3: Wellstar opens new GI clinic at Cherokee Health Park Last week, Wellstar Health System and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a big milestone at Cherokee Health Park—the addition of gastroenterology services. The ribbon-cutting for the new GI Suite took place Nov. 5, though the clinic has been seeing patients since September, with procedures starting in October. “This expansion is all about bringing expert care closer to home,” said Christine Beam, Wellstar’s executive director of health parks. The GI team includes Drs. Inder Tandon, Margaret Morrison, and Nidah Khakoo, offering care for everything from liver issues to digestive disorders. Cherokee Health Park just keeps growing—one-stop care, right in Holly Springs. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 5: Woodstock hosting two recycling events on Saturday  Woodstock is hosting not one, but two recycling events this Saturday, Nov. 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Woodstock City Church (150 Ridgewalk Parkway). It’s a chance to declutter and do some good for the planet—win-win, right? The “’Tis the Season to Be Green!” event is open to everyone and will take electronics, cardboard, batteries, eyeglasses, and more. Plus, free paper shredding (up to 10 boxes). They’re also collecting gently used items for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Meanwhile, Woodstock residents can drop off hazardous waste—paint, chemicals, Styrofoam—at a separate area. Registration required at LiveThrive.org/Woodstock. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: STRAND THEATRE   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 Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 13th Publish Date: November 13th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, November 13th and Happy birthday to Steve Zahn I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Fernbank celebrates holidays with 'Winter Wonderland' exhibit Salvation Army to kick off Red Kettle Campaign on Friday Atlanta awarded NWSL franchise that may call Marietta home Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides 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: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Fernbank celebrates holidays with 'Winter Wonderland' exhibit Fernbank’s “Winter Wonderland” is back, running Nov. 22, through Jan. 11—and honestly, it’s kind of magical. Picture this: two floors packed with dazzling trees and displays, each one telling a story about how different cultures celebrate the season. Japan, Kenya, Scotland, Guatemala—just a few of the countries featured. It’s not just pretty lights, either. There’s a scavenger hunt (yes, for adults too) where you can hunt for ornaments and hidden treasures. Oh, and if you’re into nighttime vibes, check out WildWoods: AGLOW. Tickets? $25.95 for adults, cheaper for kids. Go online to snag them early—prices jump at the door. STORY 2: Salvation Army to kick off Red Kettle Campaign on Friday  Starting this Friday, the Salvation Army of Gwinnett County kicks off its Red Kettle Campaign—you know, those little red kettles and the cheerful bell ringers? They’ll be at 49 spots around the county, raising money to help folks in need. The goal this year? $150,000 by Christmas Eve. And it’s not just about the holidays. Last year, they served over 6,000 meals, gave 2,700+ nights of shelter, and helped hundreds of families with rent, utilities, and gifts for their kids. Want to help? Ring a bell or start a virtual kettle. Every penny stays local. Details at salvationarmygwinnett.org. STORY 3: Atlanta awarded NWSL franchise that may call Marietta home   Arthur Blank’s bringing pro women’s soccer to Atlanta—finally. On Tuesday, he announced he’s snagged the rights for an NWSL expansion team, shelling out a record $165 million. The team kicks off in 2028, playing home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Blank’s already talking about a “world-class” training facility, and Marietta’s making its pitch hard. Mayor Steve Tumlin’s ready to pull out all the stops, even eyeing shovel-ready land near Atlanta United’s training ground. Atlanta’s soccer scene is booming—United, the U.S. Soccer Training Center, and now this. Blank’s betting big, and honestly? It feels like a win. 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: Gwinnett honors service members during Veterans Day Ceremony   Veterans Day isn’t about sales or shopping sprees—at least, it shouldn’t be. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Kerry Dyer reminded everyone of that during Gwinnett County’s ceremony this week. “It’s a day for gratitude,” he said, standing before a crowd of veterans spanning generations, from Korea to the Gulf. “Not just for battles fought, but for lives lived in service.” Gwinnett, home to over 30,000 veterans, pulled out all the stops—marches, music, and heartfelt speeches. Judge Shawn Bratton called the turnout “unspeakably touching.” And with new veteran resource centers on the way, the county’s commitment feels real. Two words: thank you. STORY 5: Georgia Gwinnett College students dive into environmental science during inaugural Gwinnett River Rendezvous event Georgia Gwinnett College just pulled off something pretty cool—the first-ever Gwinnett River Rendezvous. Picture this: students, faculty, and volunteers fanning out across the county, collecting water samples from rivers and streams, then testing them back on campus for things like bacteria and turbidity. It wasn’t just science—it was hands-on, messy, real-world learning. For sophomore Andreas Forbes, it was a first. “I’m an environmental science major, but I hadn’t done anything like this before,” he said. “It felt real.” The data? It’s going straight to Gwinnett Water Resources to help track contamination. And GGC? They’re already planning next year’s rendezvous. We’ll be right back. Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 5 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 Strand Marietta Holiday Celebration – City of Sugar Hill Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 12th Publish Date:  November 12th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, November 12th and Happy Birthday to Al Michaels I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb, Marietta teaching excellence pays off — in horsepower Nathan Deal calls for civility, bipartisanship GMDT’s The Nutcracker will be Thanksgiving weekend All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 7 STORY 1: Cobb, Marietta teaching excellence pays off — in horsepower This week, two of Cobb County’s best teachers got the surprise of a lifetime—a brand-new car to drive for a year. In a tradition that never gets old, the Cobb Chamber, with help from Voyles Automotive Group, handed out free one-year car leases at their monthly luncheon. Hailey Howdyshell, a first-grade teacher at Hickory Hill Elementary, drove off in a sleek Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, while Amanda Dillard, a special ed teacher at Pope High, snagged a Kia Telluride. Other honorees? Caleb Garrett (Compton Elementary) got a Honda Passport, and Lakeisha Gray (Betty Gray Middle) scored a Jeep Wrangler. Teachers, you deserve it. STORY 2: Nathan Deal calls for civility, bipartisanship Former Gov. Nathan Deal didn’t hold back this week when he spoke to the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, urging lawmakers to ditch the shouting matches and rediscover bipartisanship. In a candid chat with Superior Plumbing CEO Jay Cunningham, Deal reflected on how politics has changed—and not for the better. “It used to be you had to prove you could govern,” he said. “Now, it’s just about who yells the loudest and raises the most money.” Deal, who led Georgia from 2011 to 2019, highlighted his bipartisan work on criminal justice reform, calling it “the right thing,” not a political win. Before wrapping up, Deal shared a personal project: his children’s book, Veto the Governor’s Cat, inspired by his late wife, Sandra. “Kids listen to animals more than adults sometimes,” he joked. The book teaches lessons on courage, patience, and embracing differences. Cunningham called Deal “a man of humility and integrity,” thanking him for his service to Georgia. STORY 3: GMDT’s The Nutcracker will be Thanksgiving weekend  The Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre is bringing the magic of The Nutcracker back to Marietta this holiday season, with performances Nov. 28-30 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. Picture this: the Stahlbaum family’s festive party, a mysterious magician stirring up chaos, toy soldiers battling giant mice, and a journey through a snowy forest to the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets. It’s everything you love about the holidays, wrapped in one enchanting ballet. This year’s cast features dancers as young as seven alongside high school seniors, plus guest artists Alex Gonzaga, Raul Peinado, and D Patton White. Tickets start at $25—grab yours at georgiametrodance.org! We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: STRAND THEATRE STORY 4: Smyrna man accused of DUI after crash leaves driver seriously injured Eriberto Cante, 25, of Smyrna, is facing serious charges after a crash on Oct. 12 at the intersection of Church Street and N. Marietta Parkway. Police say Cante, driving a blue 2003 Toyota Rav4, ran a red light and was hit on the passenger side by another car with the right of way. The collision, caught on Cobb County’s Real Time Crime Center cameras, left a man unconscious with a brain bleed and fractured ribs. Officers reported smelling alcohol on Cante, who admitted to drinking five Modelo beers earlier. His blood alcohol level? A staggering .234. He also didn’t have a valid license. Cante was arrested Oct. 24 and released three days later on a $15,000 bond. STORY 5: Pro women's soccer team could be headquartered in Marietta  Arthur Blank, the billionaire behind Atlanta United and the Falcons, is reportedly bringing an NWSL expansion team to Atlanta, according to The Athletic. The price tag? A record $165 million. The team, set to debut after the 2026 season, will play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, just like Blank’s other teams. But will it call Marietta home? Atlanta United’s $90 million training facility on Franklin Gateway seems like a natural fit. With six fields, a podcast studio, and plans for hydrotherapy rooms, it’s already top-notch. Plus, Blank owns extra land nearby—plenty of room to grow. Marietta Councilman Johnny Walker is hopeful. “It’d be a win-win,” he said. Break: STORY 6: Mayor Tumlin reelected as Cobb County certifies tight race   It’s official: Steve “Thunder” Tumlin will stay Marietta’s mayor, edging out challenger Sam Foster by just 89 votes. The Cobb County Board of Elections certified the Nov. 4 results Monday, locking in Tumlin’s 50.3% to Foster’s 49.7%. Close? Absolutely. Turnout was low—just 24.9% of Cobb’s 565,686 eligible voters showed up. Most voted on Election Day, but Acting Elections Director Michael D’Itri noted a few hiccups: abandoned ballots, long lines at Thompson Community Center, and a handful of discrepancies. “It was a tough day,” D’Itri admitted, but praised poll workers for pulling it off. Runoffs for Marietta City Council Wards 3 and 5 are set for Dec. 2. Early voting starts Nov. 22. STORY 7: Braves complete coaching staff, retain Hyers, Perez  The Atlanta Braves shook up their coaching staff Tuesday, announcing a mix of familiar faces and fresh hires for Walt Weiss’ first year at the helm. Tim Hyers is back as hitting coach for his second season, and Eddie Perez—yes, the 1999 NLCS MVP—is returning for his 37th year with the organization. That’s loyalty. New faces? Tommy Watkins takes over as third base coach after years with the Twins, Dustin Garneau steps in as catching coach, and Darnell Coles joins as assistant hitting coach, bringing over a decade of experience. Tony Diaz rounds out the group as a major league coach. Oh, and Tony Mansolino, originally hired as third base coach, will now serve as Weiss’ bench coach. Big moves all around. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 7 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 11th Publish Date: November 11th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, November 11th and Happy Birthday to George Patton I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Wildwoods: AGLOW returns to Fernbank on Nov. 14 Flights trimmed at Atlanta and other major airports as government shutdown drags on Thousands show up for Sheriff's Thanksgiving Food Giveaway 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 Mall of GA STORY 1: Wildwoods: AGLOW returns to Fernbank on Nov. 14 Fernbank’s “Museum Nights” are back, and with them comes the enchanting after-dark experience, WildWoods: AGLOW, starting mid-November. From Nov. 14 to Feb. 28, select nights will transform the woods into a glowing wonderland—think illuminated sculptures, dreamy soundscapes, and projections that bring Georgia’s nocturnal wildlife to life. Picture this: giant glowing mushrooms, fluttering dragonflies, and even a swarm of bats lighting up the boardwalk. There’s an interactive tulip poplar pod, too—because why not? Guests can also explore exhibits, sip cocktails, and catch Museum Alive on the Giant Screen. Heads up: some nights are adults-only. Details at FernbankMuseum.org/AGLOW. STORY 2: Flights trimmed at Atlanta and other major airports as government shutdown drags on Airlines are cutting flights in and out of Atlanta, thanks to a federal mandate tied to the government shutdown. The FAA, citing “strain” on air traffic controllers—who’ve been working unpaid for over five weeks—ordered domestic flight reductions to keep things safe. “We’re seeing stress in the system,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “Safety comes first.” On Friday, Hartsfield-Jackson and 39 other major airports saw a 4% cut in flights, ramping up to 10%. Airlines like Delta and United are offering refunds or free rescheduling, but the chaos is real. Thanksgiving travel? Buckle up. STORY 3: Thousands show up for Sheriff's Thanksgiving Food Giveaway The line of cars on Sugarloaf Parkway—stretching over a mile in both directions—said it all. Sheriff Keybo Taylor’s Thanksgiving Food Giveaway always draws a crowd, but this year? It was something else. With furloughs and SNAP cuts from the government shutdown, the need was painfully clear. Families waited for hours, even after making it into the fairgrounds. The plan was to feed 3,000 families, but turnout blew past that. “It speaks to the need,” said Taylor Atwater, the Sheriff’s Office spokesperson. Volunteers—300 of them, from high school athletes to local businesses—loaded cars with turkeys, produce, dry goods, and even Lunchables. “This is for everyone,” said Austin Smith from the outreach team. Sheriff Taylor summed it up: “When we stand together, we bridge the gap.” 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 STORY 4: Georgia economy suffers from lack of financial aid for low-income students, advocates argue Here’s a tough truth: Georgia is one of only two states that doesn’t offer financial aid to college students based on need. Instead, there’s HOPE—a lottery-funded scholarship tied to high school grades. But if your GPA slips in college? It’s gone. That’s exactly what happened to Jordan Winfrey, a Kennesaw State junior studying nursing. She lost HOPE after struggling with chemistry and now works 30 hours a week to make up for it. “If I could work less, I’d focus more on school,” she said. Advocates argue this policy fuels student debt, dropouts, and even a “brain drain” as students leave Georgia for better aid elsewhere. STORY 5: GAC Grad Davis Mills Leads Big Texans Rally over Jaguars Greater Atlanta Christian alum Davis Mills pulled off a stunner Sunday, leading the Houston Texans to a wild 36-29 comeback win over the Jaguars after trailing by 19 late in the third quarter. Mills, stepping in for C.J. Stroud, threw for 292 yards, two touchdowns, and a pick, but it was his legs that sealed the deal—a 14-yard scramble on third-and-goal with just 30 seconds left. Oh, and Houston wasn’t done. Will Anderson Jr. scooped up a fumble and took it 32 yards to the house as time expired. Break 3: Sugar Hill Skating Rink Final STORY 6: Georgia officials say partial SNAP benefits coming this week Georgia families worried about losing SNAP benefits during the federal shutdown are getting a bit of relief this week. The Georgia Department of Human Services announced Sunday that partial SNAP payouts are starting. Families who usually get benefits in the first week of the month should see them sometime today. Those with later dates? You’ll get yours as scheduled. It’s not the full amount—DHS says recipients could get up to 65% of their usual benefits, depending on income and deductions. STORY 7: Collins Hill's Jameson Pifer Races to State Cross Country Championship Redemption tastes sweeter when it’s earned, and Jameson Pifer earned every bit of it Saturday. The Collins Hill senior, after a tough showing at last year’s state meet, conquered Carrollton’s brutal hills to claim the Class AAAAAA state title and having the fastest time across all classifications. “This course isn’t built for lanky runners like me,” Pifer admitted. “The tight turns, the hills—it’s a grind. But after last year? This win means everything.” Pifer’s journey wasn’t easy. He lost HOPE last year, finishing 11th. But this time, he surged ahead in a thrilling duel with Carrollton’s Dash Brackin, sealing his victory. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: STRAND THEATRE 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.

Top Stories for November 8th Publish Date: November 8th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, November 8th and Happy Birthday to Margaret Mitchell I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Lawrenceville's Hooper-Renwick Themed Library earns Redevelopment Project of the Year honors Rick Case Bikes for Kids Accepting Bicycle Donations Gwinnett Tech boards earn statewide honors for exemplary leadership and governance 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 Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Lawrenceville's Hooper-Renwick Themed Library earns Redevelopment Project of the Year honors The Hooper-Renwick Themed Library in Lawrenceville just snagged the title of Medium Redevelopment Project of the Year at the Metro Atlanta Redevelopment Summit—and honestly, it’s well-deserved. This isn’t just a library. It’s a reimagining of the historic Hooper-Renwick School, once the only public school for Black students in Gwinnett County. Now, it’s a space that blends the past and present—a library, a museum, a place for storytelling and connection. The project preserves the school’s legacy while creating a vibrant community hub. STORY 2: Rick Case Bikes for Kids Accepting Bicycle Donations Got an old bike collecting dust? Rick Case Bikes for Kids is back, and they’re asking the community to help spread some holiday magic. Through Dec. 20, Rick Case dealerships are accepting gently used bicycles to give to kids who might not otherwise have one. For 44 years, this program has delivered over 122,000 bikes to children through groups like Boys & Girls Clubs, Habitat for Humanity, and local schools. “A first bike is unforgettable,” says Rita Case, CEO of Rick Case Automotive Group. “For many of these kids, it’s their first taste of freedom.” Drop-offs are easy—locations in Duluth and Roswell are open daily. STORY 3: Gwinnett Tech boards earn statewide honors for exemplary leadership and governance Gwinnett Technical College is having a moment—two big milestones worth celebrating. First, the Gwinnett Tech Foundation Board of Trustees was named a 2025 Role Model Board, a pretty big deal in the world of technical education. Why? Because it’s only given to boards that go above and beyond in leadership, advocacy, and making a real difference. And then there’s this: for the 16th year in a row, every single member of the Gwinnett Tech Board of Directors earned certification. Sixteen years! That’s dedication. “These achievements show just how committed our boards are to student success and workforce development,” said Dr. Glen Cannon, Gwinnett Tech’s president. 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 STORY 4: Stolen trailer leads Gwinnett police to cache of guns and drugs in Doraville home What started as a stolen trailer report in Norcross turned into something much bigger—a stash of guns and drugs uncovered in Doraville, according to Gwinnett County police. It began on Oct. 30, when officers used Flock license plate readers to track the stolen trailer to a vehicle tied to Matthew Davis. A visit to Davis’s home revealed the trailer, now sporting a swapped license plate. But that wasn’t all. A search warrant led officers to more than 30 firearms, fentanyl, meth, and prescription drugs inside the house. No charges yet, but detectives are asking for tips. STORY 5: Mall of Georgia preparing for the holidays and visits with Santa Santa’s back at the Mall of Georgia, and he’s ready for his close-up! You can catch him at the Simon Photo Experience all the way through Christmas Eve. Pro tip: hours vary, so snag a reservation if you can. But Santa’s not just sticking to photos—he’s making the rounds. On Nov. 15, he’ll join the Grinch and Papa Elf for the Tree Lighting Ceremony (7 p.m.), complete with live reindeer, face painting, and *The Polar Express*. Got a furry friend? Pet photos with Santa are happening Nov. 23, 6:30–8:30 p.m. And for families with special needs, there’s a quieter event Dec. 7, 8:30–10 a.m. STORY 6: FIRST LOOK: COhatch Lawrenceville set to open Monday COhatch is bringing its coworking magic to Lawrenceville, opening Monday, Nov. 10, at 190 S. Clayton St. This isn’t your typical office—it’s 30 private offices, four meeting rooms, event space, and even a patio for when you need a little fresh air (or just an excuse to work outside). The vibe? Community-focused. Think high-speed internet, shared kitchens, and spaces designed to connect people from all walks of life. “We want to create inspiring spaces right in the heart of neighborhoods,” says COhatch CEO Matt Davis. STORY 7: Gwinnett Stripers Launch 'Hooked on Books' Reading Program The Gwinnett Stripers are stepping up to the plate with *Hooked on Books*—their first-ever free reading program for elementary students in Gwinnett County. Here’s the deal: read four books, “round the bases,” and score two free tickets to a 2026 Stripers game. Teachers and staff? You’re in on the free tickets, too. Schools can join in two ways: - **Campus Assembly:** Chopper the Groundhog and friends bring the hype with a 30-minute pep rally (if you’re within 15 miles of Coolray Field). - **Virtual Option:** A fun video and all the details sent straight to you. The program runs Jan. 12–March 16, with an April 1 deadline. Details at GoStripers.com. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 7th Publish Date:  November 7th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, November 7th and Happy Birthday to Jim Kaat I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Bakery, Italian restaurant coming to Avenue East Cobb Auditions for Cobb Idol Jr. are due by Dec. 1 Powder Springs man to run in marathon to raise money for cancer research Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: Bakery, Italian restaurant coming to Avenue East Cobb  Two new spots are about to shake things up at Avenue East Cobb this month, and foodies, you’re gonna want to mark your calendars. First up, Giulia—a cozy Italian bakery and patisserie—opened today! Think flaky croissants, dreamy pastries, and coffee that’ll make you linger. After finding success at The Forum in Peachtree Corners, owners Ben and Seth Gjuka are bringing their magic to a 900-square-foot space here, right next to their upcoming restaurant, Luga. Speaking of Luga, it’s set to debut Nov. 24 in the old Drift Fish House spot. Expect a sleek 28-seat bar, an open kitchen, and a menu packed with antipasti, Roma-style pizzas, and fresh, house-made pastas. Find it all at 4475 Roswell Road. STORY 2: Auditions for Cobb Idol Jr. are due by Dec. 1  Got a voice that can wow a crowd? The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta is calling all young singers, ages 11-19, to audition for Cobb Idol Jr. 2026: Heartbreak & Heartache. This live competition, a spinoff of the beloved Cobb Idol, gives talented teens a chance to shine on stage. The big event happens Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m., but auditions are due by Dec. 1. Here’s the deal: submit a video of yourself singing a love or heartbreak-themed song (1.5–3 minutes) to education@strandmarietta.org. Keep it family-friendly, show off your range, and make sure your voice is the star. Winners snag cash, scholarships, and even a spot in Cobb Idol 2026. Questions? Email Savannah Patton at education@strandmarietta.org. STORY 3: Powder Springs man to run in marathon to raise money for cancer research  The 2026 Chicago Marathon is still months away, but for Cole McNall, the journey has already begun. The 25-year-old from Powder Springs isn’t just training for his first marathon—he’s running for something much bigger: his mom. Last December, McNall’s mother, Danae Huffman, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare and incurable blood cancer. “She wasn’t herself—back pain, fatigue, just... off,” McNall recalls. The diagnosis hit hard. Treatments were grueling—chemo, a stem cell transplant—but today, she’s in remission. Now, McNall is running as part of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation team, aiming to raise $3,000 for research. “This isn’t just a race,” he says. “It’s for her.” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 4: Veterans Day celebrations in Cobb County Veterans Day is almost here, and Cobb County is pulling out all the stops to honor those who’ve served. From parades to luncheons, there’s something for everyone leading up to Nov. 11. Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 8 will feature marching bands, floats, and a ceremony in Glover Park. And on Nov. 11, ceremonies in Acworth, Austell, Powder Springs, and Smyrna will pay tribute with speakers, color guards, and heartfelt moments. There are countless ways to show gratitude next week. STORY 5: Delays likely for distribution of government food benefits to the hungry For one in eight Georgians, the wait for food assistance just got longer—and more uncertain. SNAP benefits, which usually roll out between the 5th and 23rd of each month, are delayed, leaving families in limbo. At Goodr Community Market in Atlanta, owner Jasmine Crowe-Houston has already heard from customers. “People are coming in saying, ‘I always get my benefits on the 5th—nothing today.’” The delay stems from the government shutdown, now in its 36th day. USDA guidance issued Tuesday slashed funding to half the usual amount, forcing states to scramble to recalibrate systems. Food banks like Second Harvest of South Georgia are bracing for impact, but as Eliza McCall put it, “SNAP feeds nine people for every one we serve. We can’t fill that gap.” Meanwhile, confusion reigns. A Trump social media post suggested benefits might stop entirely, though the White House later clarified payments are coming—just slowly. For 1.4 million Georgians, that’s cold comfort. Hunger doesn’t wait. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 7th Publish Date: November 7th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 7th and Happy Birthday to Jim Kaat I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County voters approve sales tax for transportation Paloma brings Mexican flavors to Woodstock’s Adair Park Here's who signed up to run for Georgia House District 23 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 1 STORY 1: Cherokee County voters approve sales tax for transportation Cherokee County voters just gave the green light to a 1% sales tax for transportation—T-SPLOST—set to pump $445 million into local roads over six years. The measure passed with 60.4% of the vote, according to unofficial results. That’s 25,132 “yes” votes to 16,479 “no.” Here's Cherokee County Commission Chair Harry Johnston talking about the results: VO Starting April 2026, the tax will fund road widening, bridge replacements, traffic signal upgrades—you name it. The tax bumps Cherokee’s sales tax to 7%, but here’s the kicker: about a third of that revenue comes from non-residents. STORY 2: Paloma brings Mexican flavors to Woodstock’s Adair Park “Everything here—everything—is made from scratch,” says Jason Sheetz, co-owner of Paloma Tequila & Tacos, Woodstock’s newest spot for Mexican food. Open since October in Adair Park, the restaurant even makes its chips and salsa fresh daily. The menu? Familiar favorites like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, but with a twist. Almost everything is gluten-free, and Executive Chef Rebeca Delgado brings her own creative flair to dishes like carne asada burritos and tacos de carne asada. Drinks are just as thoughtful. The Paloma Cantarito, served in a ceramic cup, and the jalapeño-pineapple margarita are crowd-pleasers—no premixes, just fresh juices. Paloma is open for dinner now, with lunch service starting Thanksgiving week. And yes, parking is free. STORY 3: Here's who signed up to run for Georgia House District 23 Six candidates are vying for the Georgia House District 23 seat, left vacant after the passing of longtime Representative Mandi Ballinger, who served the Cherokee County area for over a decade before losing her battle with cancer last month. The special election is set for Dec. 9, with five Republicans and one Democrat in the mix: Ann Gazell, a retired educator; Bill Fincher, a former assistant DA; Brice Futch, a firefighter; Raj Sagoo, a consultant; Scott Sanders, an engineer (and the lone Democrat); and William Ware, a retired microbiologist. Early voting starts Nov. 17, and if no one wins outright, a runoff will follow on Jan. 6. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 1 STORY 4: Cobb/Cherokee State Football Playoff Schedule Here is the upcoming state football playoff schedule. Class AAAAAA – Nov. 14 Paulding County (4-6) heads to North Cobb (7-3) Hillgrove (8-2) takes on North Paulding (8-2) Marietta (5-5) faces Harrison (9-1) Walton (5-5) battles undefeated McEachern (10-0) Class AAAAA – Nov. 14 Lee County (7-3) visits Sprayberry (9-1) Creekview (5-5) travels to Houston County (9-1) Woodstock (6-4) meets Thomas County Central (10-0) Coffee (4-6) challenges Sequoyah (9-1) Class AAAA – Nov. 14 Hampton (7-3) at Kell (8-2) Class A-AAA Private Nov. 14: NCC (4-6) vs. King’s Ridge (7-3); MPC (5-5) at Holy Innocents (7-3) Nov. 21: Darlington/Aquinas winner heads to Whitefield (8-2) STORY 5: Woodstock Midday Optimist Club donates $500 and food to CCHVP  The Woodstock Midday Optimist Club stepped up in a big way, handing over a $500 check and a pile of food donations—worth another $500—to the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program. CCHVP recently launched a food pantry aimed at helping active-duty military in Cherokee County who’ve lost their SNAP benefits. It’s a lifeline for those who need it. The pantry, located at the Thomas M. Brady American Legion Post 45 (160 McClure St., Canton), is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 6th Publish Date: November 6th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, November 6th and Happy birthday to Glen Frey I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett stepping in to help as SNAP benefits partially cut Gwinnett passes latest round of E-SPLOST Democrats take rare statewide election wins Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk 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: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 1: Gwinnett stepping in to help as SNAP benefits partially cut Gwinnett County is stepping up—big time. With SNAP benefits slashed and the federal shutdown dragging on, officials announced $250,000 to help six local co-ops keep families afloat. “This is urgent,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “Over 90,000 Gwinnettians rely on SNAP, and federal employees are already going without pay. The need is only growing.” The funds, pulled from leftover summer lunch program money, will stock essentials like peanut butter, flour, and even dish detergent. The co-ops—Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Duluth, North Gwinnett, Southeast Gwinnett, and Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries—will divide the supplies and distribute them countywide. Meanwhile, the Sheriff’s Office is gearing up for its Thanksgiving food giveaway, expecting to serve 3,000 families. And on Veterans Day, the county’s Stand Down event will offer food, haircuts, and health screenings for veterans and their families. STORY 2: Gwinnett passes latest round of E-SPLOST  Gwinnett voters have spoken—again. On Tuesday, nearly 70% said “yes” to keeping the extra penny sales tax for schools, marking the seventh time since 1997 that E-SPLOST has passed. It’s never failed. “Thank you, Gwinnett voters, for putting students first,” said Interim Superintendent Al Taylor. The $1.5 billion raised will fund everything from new roofs and security upgrades to air-conditioned buses and updated Chromebooks. Not everyone’s thrilled, though. Critics like Laura Hunt argue the school board’s spending is out of control. Still, many parents, like Sara Gard, see it differently. “It’s hard to cheer for more taxes, but investing in our kids? That’s worth it.” STORY 3: Democrats take rare statewide election wins   In a rare shake-up, two Democrats flipped the script on Tuesday, breaking the GOP’s total hold on Georgia’s Public Service Commission. Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard ousted Republican incumbents Tim Echols and Fitz Johnson, riding a wave of frustration over rising utility bills and calls for cleaner energy. Their wins mark a rare statewide victory for Democrats, who haven’t seen much success here since Ossoff and Warnock’s Senate wins. The PSC, which regulates utilities, now has a 3-2 Republican majority—but Democrats now have a voice. 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: AROUND TOWN: Snellville police named one of Georgia's top law enforcement agencies  Snellville’s police department just gave its residents another reason to brag—actually, make that two. The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety named the department one of Georgia’s best, awarding first place for Distracted Driving Enforcement and Education and second place overall for departments with 46-75 officers in this year’s Governor’s Challenge. “This reflects the hard work of every officer,” the department shared on Facebook. And this isn’t their first rodeo. Snellville PD has racked up awards over the years, including the Governor’s Cup in 2019, 2020, and 2022. Clearly, they’re doing something right. STORY 5: Travis, Harris defeat incumbents in Lawrenceville City Council races Lawrenceville voters shook things up Tuesday, ousting two sitting city council members in favor of fresh faces—including a retired investigative journalist. Randy Travis, a former FOX 5 Atlanta reporter, beat Councilman Austin Thompson by a wide margin: 1,062 to 527. Meanwhile, Gwinnett Sheriff’s Office Maj. Bryant Harris unseated Councilwoman Marlene Taylor Crawford, 1,021 to 562. This all comes as Lawrenceville faces big changes—like a vote to annex 19,000 residents. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 2 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Scrum.org Community Podcast, Dave West welcomes Professional Scrum Trainer Bogdan Onyshchenko to explore the Agile Product Operating Model (APOM). They discuss how APOM offers a holistic, principle-based approach for product organizations—going beyond Scrum to address team motivation, vendor management, strategic decision-making, and more.Bogdan shares insights on the importance of transparency, frequent delivery, and self-organization. The episode also gets into balancing prescriptive advice with flexible principles, understanding the “why” behind agile practices, and using APOM as a practical tool for improving outcomes and value delivery.Listeners will gain practical guidance on applying APOM in their own organizations and learn how this evolving model continues to support teams and leaders in delivering value effectively.Learn more about APOM. Topics covered:Defining the Agile Product Operating Model (APOM)Practical Applications of APOMBalancing Prescriptive and Principle-Based ApproachesThe Importance of Understanding the "Why"Operating Models vs. Frameworks

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 5th Publish Date:  November 5th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, November 5th and Happy Birthday to Brian Adams I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta receives Statewide Award for M2R Trail Activation Study 'Dire need': Cobb nonprofits under strain as uncertainty over food stamps continues Braves Bench coach, former player Walt Weiss promoted as new manager All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: Marietta receives Statewide Award for M2R Trail Activation Study Big news for Marietta—its Mountain to River Trail Activation Study just snagged the 2025 Outstanding Planning Document Award from the Georgia Planning Association. Pretty cool, right? This wasn’t just another dry, cookie-cutter plan. Nope. It stood out for its creativity—think bold graphics, thoughtful storytelling, and a planning process that actually felt, well, human. Back in 2023, Marietta teamed up with the Atlanta Regional Commission and Georgia Conservancy to figure out how to breathe new life into the 3.5-mile stretch of the M2R Trail. Placemaking, wayfinding, connecting neighborhoods—it’s all in there. The award? Accepted Oct. 9. The study? Worth a read. STORY 2: 'Dire need': Cobb nonprofits under strain as uncertainty over food stamps continues The ripple effects of the government shutdown are hitting hard, and local nonprofits are feeling the strain. SNAP benefits? Still in limbo. Sure, judges ordered the program to keep running, but “partial funding” doesn’t mean much when no one knows how much or when. Melanie Kagan, CEO of The Center for Family Resources, is bracing for impact. “No real clarity,” she said. Calls for food and rent help are already flooding in—1,400 a month, and climbing. Over at Sweetwater Mission, Pastor Tracy Carter is seeing lines like never before. “Cars wrapped around the block,” he said. They’ve had to cut food portions just to stretch supplies. And with the holidays looming? It’s bleak. MUST Ministries is also overwhelmed—five times the usual number of people seeking help last week. “Even if the shutdown ends tomorrow, the damage is done,” said Katy Ruth Camp. Cobb Chairwoman Lisa Cupid urged compassion, recalling her own struggles during the 2009 recession. “So many are living paycheck to paycheck,” she said. The message is clear: nonprofits need help—donations, volunteers, anything. It’s all hands on deck. STORY 3: Braves Bench coach, former player Walt Weiss promoted as new manager  The Atlanta Braves have handed the reins to Walt Weiss, naming him their new manager after eight years as the team’s bench coach. Weiss isn’t new to the spotlight—or the hardware. He’s got two World Series rings: one from his playing days with the 1989 Oakland A’s and another from the Braves’ 2021 championship run. At 61, Weiss has been part of the Braves family for over a decade, first as a player and then as a coach. Since 2018, he’s helped guide the team to six division titles, seven playoff runs, and that unforgettable 2021 title. Before Atlanta, Weiss managed the Rockies from 2013-2016 and spent years as a special assistant in their front office. Drafted 11th overall in 1985 by the A’s, he played 14 seasons in the majors, earning Rookie of the Year in ’88. Now? He’s back at the helm, ready to write the next chapter. 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: Then and now: Marietta High School's yearbook unites generations For Lucy Greene, flipping through the Marietta High School Olympian yearbook today feels like stepping into another world. Back in 1953, when she was editor—and, oh yeah, Miss MHS—things were... different. “Y’all have computers everywhere,” she laughed, standing in front of the current yearbook staff on Monday. “I’m still analog. We were scissors-and-glue people. Literally. We cut, pasted, and prayed it looked right.” She described hauling pages to a photo lab in Atlanta, waiting for proofs, and triple-checking everything with rulers and pencils. For seniors Rebecca Moseley and Mary Caroline Murrell, today’s editors, Greene’s visit was a reminder of how much tradition matters. “It’s so special,” Murrell said. “Even 50 years later, she’s still looking back at her yearbook. That’s what we’re creating—something that lasts forever.” Greene shared her favorite memories: sock hops after basketball games, yearbook contests, and the thrill of seeing your face in print. When she graduated in 1953, Greene’s class was the first at MHS to hit 100 students. This year? Over 500. Before leaving, she offered the staff a bit of wisdom: “You can’t have too many friends in this world. And when you finish something like this, it sticks with you. It really does.” STORY 5: AROUND TOWN: Cobb GOP activist Pam Reardon dies  Pam Reardon, a fierce and passionate voice in East Cobb’s Republican community, has passed away. A retired real estate agent and longtime activist, Pam had been battling cancer. Her death was announced by Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP chair, who described her as “fearless, principled, and full of life.” Grubbs wrote, “Pamela Reardon was a shining star. Her dedication to her values and her love for others were unmatched. She was my beloved Pammy.” Born in Calgary, Canada, Pam moved to the U.S. in the late ’80s. For over 25 years, she and her husband Tom built a life in East Cobb, raising six children and doting on their grandchildren. Josh McKoon, Georgia GOP chair, also paid tribute, calling her “a pillar of our community” and “a testament to service and leadership.” Pam’s impact extended beyond politics. She served on the board of the Family Life Resource Center and as Women’s Council secretary at St. Ann’s Church. Her loss leaves a void, but her legacy of courage, compassion, and conviction will continue to inspire. Break: STORY 6: Cobb commissioners discuss proposed new stormwater fee  Cobb County’s stormwater system is, well, a mess. Aging pipes, sinkholes, overgrown detention ponds—it’s all piling up. And now, county leaders are floating a new fee to tackle it. Here’s the pitch: homeowners in unincorporated Cobb and Mableton would pay $4.75 a month. Businesses, schools, and churches? They’d pay based on how much impervious surface (think parking lots, roofs) they have. The goal? Double the stormwater budget and finally start catching up on repairs. The fee would also fund proactive services—like maintaining detention ponds and hiring crews to handle smaller fixes. But not everyone’s sold. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, a longtime critic of transferring water revenue to the general fund, isn’t convinced. “I’ve been fighting this for 15 years,” she said. Public hearings are set for Nov. 12 and Nov. 20, with a vote scheduled after. STORY 7: Police investigating fatal Austell car crash Cobb County Police are investigating a deadly crash that happened early Sunday morning on Joe Jerkins Boulevard. It was just after 3 a.m. when Erik Attaway, 45, of Austell, lost control of his gray 2019 Nissan Rogue. Heading north, he hit a curve, veered into the southbound lanes, and then off the road entirely—slamming into an embankment and a tree. Attaway didn’t survive. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are still piecing together what happened. If you know anything, they’re asking you to call 770-499-3987. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 4th Publish Date: November 4th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, November 4th and Happy Birthday to Puff Daddy I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Gas South District to host Gwinnett Glows tree lighting event Dacula teen and Gwinnett business owner join forces to spread warmth and hope this winter Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Luzia’ offers a dreamlike escape 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: Gas South District to host Gwinnett Glows tree lighting event The Gas South District is kicking off the holiday season with its annual tree lighting on Nov. 21, right in front of the Gas South Convention Center. “Gwinnett Glows,” presented by Amazon, runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and is totally free. Expect food trucks, live entertainment, and all the festive vibes. Oh, and hot cocoa—because what’s a tree lighting without it? They’re also teaming up with Rainbow Village to help families in need. Bring a gift to donate to their Amazon Christmas Wishlist, or donate online if you can’t make it. What else? Handmade crafts, photo ops with the Pink Pig, and performances by local choirs. It’s going to be magical. STORY 2: Dacula teen and Gwinnett business owner join forces to spread warmth and hope this winter   Fifteen-year-old Caden Jackson from Dacula High isn’t your average teenager. For the past decade—yes, since he was five—he’s been collecting coats, hats, gloves, and scarves to help kids stay warm in the winter. Through his nonprofit, Loved & Protected, he’s handed out nearly 9,000 pieces of winter gear to those in need. This year, he’s teaming up with Millie Habtemariam, owner of Full Circle Salon & Spa Suites in Suwanee, for the Winter Warmth Drive 2025. Their goal? Collect 5,000 coats, hats, and gloves by Dec. 31. Habtemariam’s salon is a drop-off spot, and she’s even giving donors a free “manifest candle” she makes herself. For Caden, it’s all about the joy. “Seeing kids’ faces light up when they get a new coat—it’s amazing,” he said. Caden’s dream? To take Loved & Protected nationwide. For more info, visit lovedandprotected.org or fullcirclecandle.com STORY 3: Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Luzia’ offers a dreamlike escape   Olivia Aepli and Terrance Jr. Robinson may be relatively new to Cirque du Soleil’s touring family, but they’re no strangers to the grind of life on the road. So, the chance to stay put for a while? They’re loving it. Both performers are part of “Luzia,” Cirque’s stunning “waking dream of Mexico,” running at Atlantic Station from Nov. 6 to Jan. 25. That’s over 50 shows in one spot—an absolute luxury for these road warriors. “Luzia” is Aepli’s first Cirque show, and she’s living her childhood dream. She plays the running woman, performs swing-to-swing, hoop diving, and even pole dancing. Robinson, a Cirque veteran, appears as a hummingbird and also performs hoop diving and acropole. For tickets, visit cirquedusoleil.com/luzia. 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 1 STORY 4: Parkview Grad Matt Olson Wins Third Gold Glove Award Parkview grad Matt Olson just added another piece of hardware to his already impressive career. On Sunday night, the Atlanta Braves’ first baseman snagged the Rawlings Gold Glove Award for the National League—his third overall. Olson beat out Bryce Harper and Spencer Steer for the honor, which was announced live on ESPN. He’s no stranger to this award, having won two Gold Gloves back in 2018 and 2019 with the Oakland A’s. This season? Olson was a rock. He played all 162 games, made just five errors in nearly 1,300 chances. Oh, and he’s now only the second Braves first baseman to win a Gold Glove, joining Freddie Freeman. Drafted straight out of high school by Oakland in 2012, Olson’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. And now, he’s cementing his legacy with his hometown team. STORY 5: Lawrenceville may add more downtown parking near square If you’ve ever circled downtown Lawrenceville looking for a parking spot—especially during an event at the Lawrenceville Lawn—there might be some relief on the horizon. Maybe. The city just bought two properties on South Perry Street, near the AutoZone, for a combined $835,000. What’s the plan? Well, that’s still up in the air. Assistant City Manager Barry Mock hinted at a possible parking lot, saying the southwest side of downtown could use more spaces. But City Manager Chuck Warbington isn’t ruling out redevelopment either. Meanwhile, the city also snagged a truck repair shop on Reid Street for $300,000. It’s been there for decades, but officials want to “clean up” the area and hold the property for future redevelopment. As for the AutoZone? No plans to buy it—yet. Break 3: STORY 6: Gwinnett's Co-ops bracing for increased demand as SNAP benefits end Jackie Wells Smith, director of the Lilburn Co-op, says they’ve seen a steady uptick in families seeking help, especially seniors and working parents who rely on food stamps to make ends meet. “For these families, losing SNAP is like losing a paycheck,” she said. Other co-ops, like Southeast Gwinnett and North Gwinnett, are scrambling too. North Gwinnett is shifting to a twice-a-month food distribution model to manage demand. Gwinnett County is stepping in with $250,000 to help co-ops handle the surge, but the need is overwhelming. “We’re planning for a 25% increase,” Smith said, “but honestly, I think it’ll be more.” Donations of food, hygiene items, and money are desperately needed. Co-ops are asking the community to step up—because the families coming through their doors have no other options. STORY 7: Aurora Theatre ready to celebrate 30 years of Christmas Canteen Thanksgiving’s still weeks away, but the Aurora Theatre? They’re already decking the halls. Their beloved holiday tradition, *Christmas Canteen*, returns Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, and this year’s show promises something extra special: a horn section joining the orchestra for the first time. Think big, brassy, and festive. Now in its 30th season, *Christmas Canteen* is a high-energy mix of dazzling dance, laugh-out-loud comedy, and music that’ll stick in your head long after the curtain falls. But this year’s show is bittersweet—it’s the final one under the musical direction of Ann-Carol Pence, Aurora’s co-founder. What started in 1996 as a WWII-era tribute has grown into a multigenerational tradition, blending Big Band nostalgia with modern carols, comedy, and heartfelt moments. Tickets are on sale now at auroratheatre.com. Don’t wait—this one’s a holiday must-see. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets 1 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.

In this episode, Jessie Cruickshank sits down with Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw to explore their new book Landscapes of the Soul—a beautiful and practical guide to understanding attachment theory through the lens of faith and discipleship.Together, they unpack what it means to live with secure, insecure, or disorganized attachment, reframed as landscapes of the soul: the pasture, the jungle, the desert, and the war zone. Geoff and Cyd share how these metaphors help us see our relational and spiritual patterns without shame—inviting us to move from self-protection toward deeper connection with God and others.This conversation bridges brain science and spiritual formation, showing how embodied faith and attachment awareness can transform the way we read Scripture, practice discipleship, and experience God's love in everyday life.Learn more about Geoff and Cyd's work at embodiedfaith.lifeORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjess ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.

Top Stories for November 1st Publish Date: November 1st From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, November 1st and Happy Birthday to Lyle Lovett I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. More than 300 apartments OKed near Gas South District Peachtree Corners to hold dedication ceremony for historic Jones Bridge marker Atlanta area schools win $85,000 in great band challenge 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 Mall of Georgia STORY 1: More than 300 apartments OKed near Gas South District Big changes are coming near the Gas South District—more than 300 new apartments, to be exact. Last week, Gwinnett County commissioners gave Hanover Company the green light to build a 306-unit complex at 1855 Satellite Boulevard, right across from Cross Pointe Church. The site? It’s currently home to two aging office buildings, one of which will be torn down to make room. The new apartments will include four five-story buildings, with 190 one-bedroom units and 116 two-bedrooms. Plans also feature a pool, fire pits, outdoor gathering spaces, and even resort-style patios. Access will be from Satellite Boulevard and the Kroger shopping center nearby. Brick and fiber cement exteriors, plus detached garages and carports, round out the design. Change is definitely on the horizon. STORY 2: Peachtree Corners to hold dedication ceremony for historic Jones Bridge marker Peachtree Corners is honoring a piece of its past with a new historical marker dedicated to the original Jones Bridge—the inspiration behind the city’s iconic pedestrian bridge. In partnership with PTC Arts, a nonprofit focused on bringing the community together through the arts, the city will unveil the marker on Friday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m., right at the pedestrian bridge by Town Center. The original Jones Bridge, built in 1904, was more than just steel and wood—it was a lifeline, connecting farmers, merchants, and travelers across the Chattahoochee River. But time wasn’t kind. By the Great Depression, it was falling apart, and in 1945, most of the structure was dismantled and sold off under shady circumstances. The final piece collapsed into the river in 2018, ending its story—or so we thought. The pedestrian bridge, opened in 2020, keeps that legacy alive with its design, and now, the marker will ensure future generations know the history. Funded by PTC Arts, it tells the story of connection, resilience, and a bridge that once brought two counties together. The public’s welcome to join the ceremony. Details? Check out peachtreecornersga.gov. STORY 3: Atlanta area schools win $85,000 in great band challenge Ten Atlanta-area high school bands just walked away with a total of $85,000 in prizes, thanks to the fifth annual Great Atlanta Band Challenge. Sponsored by 1-800TruckWreck and Witherite Law Group, alongside Hot 107.9 and Majic 107.5/97.5, the competition celebrated the grit and talent of student musicians. South Gwinnett High snagged first place—and $20,000. Griffin High and Douglas County High followed, earning $15,000 each. The other seven finalists? They didn’t leave empty-handed, each taking home $5,000. Winners were announced on Oct. 24 with pep rally check presentations, complete with Hot 107.9’s Partyboi Deuce hyping up the crowd. This challenge, now in its fifth year, has become a lifeline for local music programs, helping fund instruments, uniforms, and more. 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 STORY 4: Carr joins other attorneys general in call for crackdown on intoxicating hemp products Georgia lawmakers are weighing tighter rules on intoxicating hemp products, but Attorney General Chris Carr? He’s going bigger—joining 38 other Attorney General’s in calling for a federal crackdown to pull these products off shelves entirely. Here’s the issue: gas stations and convenience stores are selling gummies, vapes, and drinks made from hemp that can get you just as high as marijuana. Why? A loophole in the 2018 federal law that legalized industrial hemp. Carr and his peers say bad actors are exploiting this “inadvertent ambiguity” to flood the market with unregulated, high-THC products. Carr’s office sounded the alarm Wednesday, citing a rise in kids accidentally ingesting these substances. But not everyone’s on board. Christopher Lackner, CEO of the Hemp Beverage Alliance, called the Attorney Generals’ letter “concerning.” He agrees dangerous, kid-targeted products need to go but argues that banning all intoxicating hemp products could crush a thriving industry. Meanwhile, Georgia lawmakers are trying to balance public safety with supporting the state’s growing hemp industry. It’s a messy debate. STORY 5: Housing Matters: Data says few housing options for Gwinnett’s poorest Skyrocketing housing costs are pushing Gwinnett residents into impossible situations—cramped hotels, couch-surfing, even homelessness. A new report from Builders Patch Housing Count shows just how bad it is: for every 100 renters in Gwinnett’s lowest income bracket (earning less than 30% of the area’s median income, or about $89,000), there are only 9 affordable units. Nine. And it doesn’t get much better as incomes rise—12 units for very-low income renters, 5 for low-income, and just 1 for middle-income families. The county needs 100,000 affordable units to close the gap. Meanwhile, rents are down 13% this year, but still average $1,900 for a two-bedroom. Median home prices? $412,000. STORY 6: Political shutdown fight over food stamps comes to Georgia The federal shutdown is about to hit hard. Starting today, over a million Georgians, many of them kids, could lose access to food stamps. No federal funding, no groceries. Governor Brian Kemp? He’s not budging. Despite $14 billion in state reserves, he’s refused to step in, calling it a “Schumer shutdown” and blaming Democrats in Congress. Meanwhile, families are bracing for empty plates. Food pantries like Feeding GA Families are already overwhelmed, with demand up 50%. Thanksgiving? It’s looking grim. And the blame game? It’s in full swing. Republicans point fingers at Democrats for blocking a funding resolution, while Democrats say Republicans are holding SNAP hostage over tax credits. STORY 7: Gwinnett SWAT team captures Marietta murder suspect A man accused of killing his stepfather in a Marietta apartment shooting is now in custody after a SWAT team arrested him in Gwinnett County. Pharron Carlos Banks, 26, had been on the run since Monday night, when police say he shot and killed 58-year-old Michael Jackson during a domestic dispute at the Briggs at Power Park apartments on Franklin Gateway. Officers arrived to find Jackson with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital but didn’t make it. Banks had already fled. His car turned up in Atlanta near the university center, but Banks wasn’t with it. By Wednesday, Marietta police tracked him to a home in Gwinnett. After securing a warrant, Gwinnett’s SWAT team moved in, ordering Banks to surrender. He came out just after 5 p.m. and was taken into custody without incident. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 31st Publish Date:  October 31st    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, October 31st and Happy Birthday to John Candy I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Superior Plumbing Taste of Kennesaw is Saturday Marietta honors Rev. Dr. Nelson Price with Roswell Street commemorative naming Students can apply to over 60 Georgia colleges and universities for free in November Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 1: Superior Plumbing Taste of Kennesaw is Saturday  Mark your calendars—The Superior Plumbing Taste of Kennesaw is back! On Nov. 1, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., downtown Kennesaw (2829 Cherokee Street) will transform into a foodie’s paradise. Picture this: over 30 local restaurants serving up their best bites, a Beer Garden for the grown-ups, live music all day, and even a big screen for catching the games. Kids? They’ll be busy with inflatable slides and bounces while you stroll through the Georgia Grown Member Village. Restaurants like The Melting Pot, Gus’s Fried Chicken, and Williamson Brothers BBQ are just a few of the highlights. Admission’s free, and food samples range from $1 to $10. Proceeds benefit local charities like Shop with a Mustang and KSU Cares. Parking? Plenty—downtown, Adams Park, or First Baptist Church. Questions? Call 770-423-1330 or visit kennesawbusiness.org. Don’t miss it! STORY 2: Marietta honors Rev. Dr. Nelson Price with Roswell Street commemorative naming  For 35 years, Rev. Dr. Nelson Price stood at the pulpit of Roswell Street Baptist Church, drawing thousands to hear his sermons. Now, the stretch of Roswell Street from Marietta Square to Cobb Parkway—yes, past the Big Chicken—will honor his legacy as the “Rev. Nelson L. Price Memorial Pathway.” The name of the road isn’t changing, but two signs will mark the tribute. At Wednesday’s dedication, Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin called it a “joyous occasion,” adding, “He wasn’t just a road; he was a pathway—a lamp to our feet.” Price, who passed away in August at 94, left an indelible mark on Cobb County. He mentored students, counseled presidents, baptized thousands, and even delivered Jimmy Carter’s 1977 inauguration address. The church he led grew from 700 members to a 10,000-strong congregation, filling a 4,000-seat sanctuary every Sunday. At the unveiling, friends and family shared stories. Former Braves pitcher Jim Nash recalled meeting Price in 1969: “My wife made me go to church. Best decision ever.” Price’s wife, “Miss Trudy,” thanked everyone, saying Nelson would’ve been humbled. STORY 3: Students can apply to over 60 Georgia colleges and universities for free in November  Good news for Georgia high school seniors: college application fees? Waived. Yep, over 60 colleges and universities across the state are letting seniors apply for free this November, thanks to a partnership between the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC), the University System of Georgia, the Technical College System of Georgia, and private schools. No limits, either—apply to as many schools as you want. Fees can add up fast, so this is a big deal for families. If you use the GEORGIA MATCH admissions dashboard, the fee waivers are automatic. Curious? Head to GAfutures.org for the full list of schools and details. GSFC’s goal? Making college more affordable, plain and simple. 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 4 STORY 4: Gwinnett SWAT team captures Marietta murder suspect A man accused of killing his stepfather in a Marietta apartment shooting is now in custody after a SWAT team arrested him in Gwinnett County. Pharron Carlos Banks, 26, had been on the run since Monday night, when police say he fatally shot 58-year-old Michael Jackson during a domestic dispute at the Briggs at Power Park apartments on Franklin Gateway. Officers arrived just after 6:30 p.m. to find Jackson with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital but didn’t survive. Banks fled before police arrived. His car was later found near the Atlanta University Center and brought back to Marietta for evidence processing. On Wednesday, Marietta police tracked Banks to a home in Gwinnett. With a search warrant in hand, Gwinnett’s SWAT team surrounded the house, issued commands, and arrested Banks just after 5 p.m. “Our hearts go out to the family and everyone affected by this tragedy,” Marietta police said, thanking Gwinnett officers for their help. STORY 5: Marietta council tabling measure that would require permit to protest The Marietta City Council hit pause on a proposed ordinance that would require permits for protests, opting to send it back for legal review. Councilwoman Cheryl Richardson made the motion, saying the city needs a constitutional law expert to weigh in. The ordinance, as written, would require groups of five or more to get a permit for an “expression event,” limit protest locations and times, and restrict sound amplification like megaphones. “Expression’s not the issue—it’s volume,” said Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin. Richardson wasn’t sold. “Five people? That’s too small. If seven of us wave on a corner, we’d need a permit? That’s not right,” she said, adding the term “expression” felt off. The committee unanimously agreed to table it. Next meetings: Nov. 10 (work session) and Nov. 12 (voting). And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 4 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 31st Publish Date: October 31st   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 31st and Happy Birthday to John Candy I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County food pantries preparing for SNAP freeze Walmart drone delivery service coming to Woodstock Pigtails & Crewcuts announces new Woodstock salon owner Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Cherokee County food pantries preparing for SNAP freeze With the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits—food stamps—are set to stop this Saturday, leaving over 1.4 million Georgians scrambling. Food pantries in Cherokee County are bracing for the surge. MUST Ministries is already feeling the strain. They’re ramping up efforts with mobile pantries, fresh food distributions, and toy shop registrations already spiking. Donations? Desperately needed. Encompass Ministries is rolling out weekly food boxes and bread tables, while Never Alone Food Pantry is building emergency kits and asking for canned meats, diapers, and financial help. Veterans? American Legion Post 45 is opening a pantry for active-duty families, offering free non-perishables. The need is overwhelming, but these organizations are stepping up. Want to help? Visit their websites or donate directly. Every bit counts. STORY 2: Walmart drone delivery service coming to Woodstock Big news for Woodstock: the Walmart on Highway 92 is gearing up to launch drone deliveries—yes, drones. The city announced it’s approved permits for Wing, in partnership with Walmart, to start flying orders straight to customers’ homes. When? No exact date yet, but first, the store needs a “nest” built—a hub for 18 drones to charge, launch, and land. Mayor Michael Caldwell called it a step into the future, saying Woodstock is all about innovation (with safety in mind, of course). So, how does it work? Through the Wing app, you’ll pick your delivery spot—driveway, backyard, wherever—and confirm it’s clear. The drones, fully electric and FAA-regulated, can carry up to 2.5 pounds and fly six miles one way. Groceries, household goods, even over-the-counter meds? All fair game. Alcohol and prescriptions? Not so much. Wing’s already had success in other states like Texas, and now Woodstock’s joining the club. Stay tuned—your next Walmart order might just land in your yard. STORY 3: Pigtails & Crewcuts announces new Woodstock salon owner Pigtails & Crewcuts, the beloved kids’ hair salon, is changing hands in Woodstock and Roswell. Kelly Talal, a local mom and owner of the Marietta West Cobb location, is taking over. For Kelly and her husband, this isn’t just business—it’s personal. “As a parent, I know how stressful haircuts can be,” she said. “But Pigtails & Crewcuts? It turns chaos into fun. The themed chairs, the kind stylists—it’s magic for kids.” With a background in advertising and a knack for building community, Kelly’s ready to lead. Her husband handles the numbers; she handles the heart. The salons, with their bright colors, vehicle chairs, and even birthday party rooms, will keep running as usual—maybe even expand hours down the road. For updates, check out their Facebook page or website. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 4: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 12  The Cherokee County football power rankings are in, and as Week 12 approaches, there’s plenty to talk about—big wins, tough losses, and everything in between. No. 1 — Sequoyah (8-1, 5-1) The Chiefs? Absolute beasts. Last Friday, they obliterated Pope 70-13, breaking their own scoring record again. QB Kolby Martin was nearly perfect—seven passes, five touchdowns, 169 yards. Oh, and Will Rajecki? Just casually racking up 100+ yards on seven carries. They’re tied for first in Region 6AAAAA and face Creekview next. Buckle up. No. 2 — Creekview (5-4, 5-1) The Grizzlies are rolling. They edged out River Ridge 21-14 last week, locking in a playoff spot. Their only region loss? A nail-biter against Sprayberry. With a bruising run game and a stingy defense, they’re ready for their showdown with Sequoyah. No. 3 — Woodstock (6-3, 4-2) The Wolverines bounced back strong, shutting out Riverwood 23-0 after a tough loss to Sequoyah. Trace Washington was unstoppable—136 yards on 17 carries. Coach Dan Devine has this team playoff-bound for the second year in a row. No. 4 — River Ridge (6-3, 3-3) The Knights are struggling. Two straight losses, and QB Hunter Lockerman’s absence is glaring. The defense, led by Wyatt McCarty and Matthew Burdette, is solid, but the offense needs a spark. They’ll try to end on a high note against Lassiter. No. 5 — Etowah (3-7, 1-5) The Eagles’ season is over, but there’s hope. QB Zeke Douglass and WR Walker Hughes were a dynamic duo, and most of their key players will return in 2026. No. 6 — Cherokee (1-9, 0-6) A rough year for the Warriors, but there’s promise. Freshman QB Zack Parker and lineman Nation Farmer are bright spots. With new facilities coming in 2026, they’re looking to rebuild. STORY 5: Turn lane coming to Lakeside Drive at Holly Springs Parkway  Changes are on the way for the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Holly Springs Parkway, right where new apartments and townhomes are going up. On Oct. 21, Cherokee County commissioners gave the green light for Calco Engineering to start designing improvements for the intersection. The project, tied to a 2021 rezoning deal with Quintus Development, includes a right-turn lane from Lakeside onto Holly Springs Parkway. As part of that deal, the developer chipped in $200,000 toward the lane’s construction. Now, with $42,000 approved for design work, plans are moving forward. A conceptual design will be reviewed before detailed plans are finalized. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 10   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Source for Everything Goblin-town!Discord (“We stop airing new episodes and Monster Right starts speciating.”): https://discord.gg/Y5Uw6sdmU2Email: findingmonsterright@gmail.comBluesky: @monsterrightpod.bsky.socialDISCLAIMER: By listening to this podcast episode, the listener forfeits all right to their immortal soul (hereafter referred to as "the asset") and transfers ownership of said asset to Allison Alžbeta Asherah, the Dark and the Demonsbane. The asset can be recovered by the listener if and only if IT'S ALIVE! IT'S ALIVE! IN THE NAME OF PODCASTING, NOW I KNOW WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO BE PODCASTING!

GDP Script/ Top Stories for October 30th Publish Date: October 30th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, October 30th and Happy birthday to Henry Winkler I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Walgreens and InCommunity partner to offer free vaccination clinics in Norcross A state representative steps down, creating another vacancy in the General Assembly Gwinnett senator to Kemp: Declare SNAP benefits emergency Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots 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: Ingles Markets 9 STORY 1: Walgreens and InCommunity partner to offer free vaccination clinics in Norcross Walgreens and InCommunity are hosting free vaccination clinics around the metro area, including one this Friday in Norcross. No insurance? No problem. Everyone’s welcome—individuals, families, whoever needs it. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., head to the Gwinnett Academic Assist Program Training Center at 1600 Oakbrook Drive. Flu shots, COVID boosters, RSV, shingles, pneumonia—you name it, they’ve got it. Licensed Walgreens pharmacists will be there to handle it all. And yes, it’s completely free. If you’ve got Medicaid or insurance, they’ll process it, but it’s not required. Walk-ins are fine, or register online through Walgreens. Don’t miss it! STORY 2: A state representative steps down, creating another vacancy in the General Assembly  Another Georgia lawmaker is stepping down, adding to the growing list of vacancies in the state legislature. Rep. Marcus Wiedower announced Tuesday he’s resigning after six years in the House. Why? His job at Hillpointe, a real estate development firm, is booming—13 states now, up from one when he started. “It’s bittersweet,” he said, explaining the travel demands would pull him away from the Capitol. Wiedower chaired the House Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government. A special election will be held to fill his seat in District 121, along with three others left vacant by resignations and, tragically, a death. Politics never slows down. STORY 3: Gwinnett senator to Kemp: Declare SNAP benefits emergency   State Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, is urging Gov. Brian Kemp to step in and help Georgia families who are about to lose their SNAP benefits because of the federal government shutdown. The shutdown, which started Oct. 1, has left Congress at a standstill, and now the USDA says SNAP benefits won’t be issued after Nov. 1. For 1.4 million Georgians—kids, seniors, working families—that’s a crisis. “Food isn’t optional. We have a moral duty to act.” She said. She’s asking Kemp to declare a state of emergency and use Georgia’s $14.6 billion surplus to provide aid, pointing to similar actions in Virginia and Louisiana. Meanwhile, the blame game rages on. But for families relying on SNAP? The politics don’t matter. They just need food. 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: GDOT: Expect congestion near Netherworld on Halloween  If you’re heading to Netherworld this Halloween, brace yourself—it’s not just the haunted house that’ll be packed. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is warning drivers to expect traffic nightmares around metro Atlanta’s Halloween hotspots, especially Friday and Saturday. Netherworld, Six Flags, Stone Mountain Park, The Battery, and even Little 5 Points? All on the list of places where traffic’s gonna crawl. GDOT says the worst congestion will hit Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. And don’t forget the neighborhoods. Trick-or-treaters will be out, so slow down, stay alert, and for the love of candy, don’t drive distracted—or worse, drunk. STORY 5: Helping Kids Shine: Former Athletes Bring KidStrong to Gwinnett to Boost Youth Confidence When Jordan and Shaun Wade moved to Atlanta, they were just looking for something—anything—that could help their 3-year-old son, Shiloh, come out of his shell. Confidence, they thought, was the key. Jordan, a former Team USA track star, and Shaun, an Ohio State football standout now with the Chicago Bears, tried a few programs. Nothing clicked. Then they found KidStrong in Alpharetta. KidStrong, a science-based program for kids (walking to age 11), focuses on emotional, mental, and physical growth. With over 160 locations nationwide, it’s helping 65,000 kids a week. And now, thanks to the Wades, it’s coming to Gwinnett County—Snellville in 2026, Lawrenceville in 2027. Though new to business, Jordan’s no stranger to leadership. A former captain of South Carolina’s track team, she’s ready to bring that same energy to KidStrong. For more info, visit kidstrong.com or email Jordan at jordan.wade@kidstrong.com. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 9 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 29th Publish Date:  October 29th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, October 29th and Happy Birthday to Richard Dryfuess I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 2025 Smyrna Veterans Day Ceremony MUST Ministries opens clinic, offering affordable medical care Metro Atlanta transit payment system refresh coming soon 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: 2025 Smyrna Veterans Day Ceremony  The 2025 Smyrna Veterans Day Ceremony kicks off at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the Veterans Memorial on King Street. It’s free—parking too—and open to everyone. If it rains? No problem, they’ll move it to the Smyrna Community Center. This year’s keynote speaker is retired U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. David “Shark” Waldrop, a man with stories that sound straight out of a movie. Back in 1967, flying an F-105 Thunderchief over North Vietnam, Waldrop chased down MiG-17s at MACH 1.3, dodged missiles, and took out enemy fighters with nerves of steel and a 20mm Gatling gun. Waldrop flew 105 combat missions, survived being shot down, and earned three Silver Stars, three Distinguished Flying Crosses, and 12 Air Medals. After the Air Force, he spent 32 years flying for Delta and even flew F-8 Crusaders as a Marine reservist. He’s a Nashville native, now living in Cobb County with his wife, Sue, and their two grown sons. Don’t miss the chance to hear his incredible story. STORY 2: MUST Ministries opens clinic, offering affordable medical care  MUST Ministries just took a big step forward: on-site health care. On Oct. 1, the nonprofit opened the MUST Care Clinic, offering affordable—or even free—primary and behavioral health care. “Our ‘why’ is simple,” said MUST CEO Ike Reighard at the ribbon cutting. “We’re here to serve our neighbors in need.” The clinic, staffed by Eastchester Family Services, replaces their mobile medical unit with a permanent space, open three days a week. In just 10 days, they’ve already treated 65 people. MUST raised $1.4 million to open the clinic but needs $600,000 annually to keep it running. The clinic, located at 1260 Cobb Parkway North, is open Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. STORY 3: Metro Atlanta transit payment system refresh coming soon  Heading downtown for a game or concert? If you’re taking MARTA, get ready for some changes—fare gates are getting a 21st-century upgrade. MARTA announced Monday it’s rolling out new contactless fare equipment. The new gates will be easier to use (no more fumbling with cards), and a smartphone app is on the way, letting riders pay with a mobile wallet. Finally. The “Better Breeze” system will also expand to CobbLinc and Ride Gwinnett soon. But don’t toss your old Breeze card just yet—MARTA says the full switch won’t happen until spring. Fares? Still $2.50. “We’re keeping prices steady, but the system? Long overdue for an upgrade,” said MARTA Interim CEO Jonathan Hunt. Oh, and in a few years, you might not even need a wallet at all. Thanks to a new Georgia law, digital driver’s licenses are coming, though police have until 2027 to get the tech to scan them. 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: KSU associate professor leads effort to strengthen juvenile justice programs through data analysis   Every year, hundreds of kids leave Georgia’s juvenile justice system, hoping for a fresh start. But staying on that path? That’s the hard part. Kennesaw State’s Austin Brown is tackling it head-on with the Annual Recidivism Report, funded by a $62,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice. Brown’s team digs into the data—messy, complicated, real-world data—to figure out what’s working and what’s not. “These aren’t just numbers,” Brown said. “They’re kids. Real kids with real stories.” One big takeaway? The gap between male and female recidivism rates is shrinking, a sign that programs targeting young men are making a difference. For Brown, it’s not just about stats—it’s about second chances. STORY 5: All Saints’ Sunday at First Presbyterian Church of Marietta  First Presbyterian Church of Marietta, over on Church Street, is inviting the community to join them for All Saints’ Sunday on Nov. 2 in the Great Hall. All Saints’ Day started as a way to honor early Christian martyrs, but over the centuries, it’s become a time to remember anyone whose faith has shaped our lives. Worship services are at 8:30 and 11 a.m., with gratitude and reflection at the heart of it all. Then, from 5 to 6 p.m., there’s a special concert and remembrance service led by Rev. Joe Evans and the Chancel Choir. Expect music selections from Dolly Parton, John Rutter, and Craig Courtney, plus a chance to add loved ones’ names to a prayer weave—a beautiful symbol of love’s lasting connection. Questions? Reach out to Kelly Dewar at kellydewar@fpcmarietta.org or 770-427-0293. Break: STORY 6: Police: Marietta man killed in shooting involving Smyrna police died of self-inflicted wound    A Marietta man who died after a confrontation with Smyrna police last Friday morning was killed by a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Smyrna Police. Darrick Desawn Rooks, 46, was found dead in a stolen U-Haul truck after a traffic stop near Concord Road and McClinden Avenue. Initially, the GBI reported that a gunshot was fired from the U-Haul, prompting officers to return fire. However, Smyrna police later clarified that Rooks’ fatal injury was self-inflicted, a conclusion confirmed by the Cobb County Medical Examiner. No officers were hurt. The GBI is still investigating, with findings to be reviewed by the Cobb County District Attorney. STORY 7: SNAP benefits to halt Nov. 1 due to government shutdown Starting Nov. 1, SNAP benefits won’t be available if the federal government shutdown drags on, the Georgia Department of Human Services announced Friday. SNAP, which is fully funded by Congress, relies on federal dollars—money that’s now tied up. The USDA told state officials there’s not enough funding to cover November benefits. For now, recipients can still use whatever’s left on their EBT cards, but after Nov. 1? Those cards won’t work. “Plan ahead,” Human Services urged. “Shop for what you need now.” Check balances at connectebt.com or the mobile app. And don’t submit duplicate applications—it won’t speed things up. 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.

Top Stories for October 28th Publish Date: October 28th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, October 28th and Happy Birthday to Julia Roberts I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. SPARC, Motel to Home help homeless single-parent families get back into housing E-SPLOST headlines countywide ballot — but faces challenges Gwinnett police chief pushes back in Peachtree Corners debate 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 Mall Of Georgia STORY 1: SPARC, Motel to Home help homeless single-parent families get back into housing Life hit Faith Busano like a freight train. “The day we moved into our last apartment, I lost my job,” she said. Originally from California, Faith, 32, had bounced from Michigan to Georgia, trying to find stability for herself and her two daughters, 3-year-old Love and 13-year-old Harmoni. But things kept falling apart. Family couldn’t help. The apartment didn’t work out. And when the job disappeared, so did their home. They ended up in an extended-stay motel—what was supposed to be a temporary fix. But weeks turned into months, and the motel became a trap. Her toddler’s energy was endless, her teen was struggling with mental health, and Faith herself was barely holding on. She worked customer service, drove for DoorDash, styled hair—anything to scrape by. But the grind was relentless. Then, one day, a flier changed everything. The motel was handing out groceries, and someone slipped her information about SPARC’s Motel to Home program. It felt like a lifeline. SPARC, led by Joy Monroe, helps families like Faith’s escape the cycle of extended-stay living. The program covers deposits, first month’s rent, and helps families transition into stable housing. But it’s not easy—there are requirements, and families have to actively work toward qualifying. Faith did the work. She found an apartment within her budget, got approved, and finally moved in. Monroe, who started SPARC to support single moms like herself, knows the struggle all too well. Faith is still rebuilding—working toward her medical assistant certification, dreaming of opening her own business someday. But for now, she’s just grateful to have a place to call home. STORY 2: E-SPLOST headlines countywide ballot — but faces challenges This fall, Gwinnett voters have plenty to decide, but nothing’s stirring the pot quite like the E-SPLOST referendum. Here’s the deal: Gwinnett County Public Schools and Buford City Schools want to extend the 1% sales tax for another six years, aiming to rake in $1.47 billion—most of it ($1.44 billion) for GCPS. The money would go toward maintaining aging schools (average age: 24 years), fixing roofs, replacing HVAC systems, and even funding a new career and technical education center. Safety upgrades and Chromebooks? Also on the list. Supporters say it’s essential. Opponents? They’re calling out wasteful spending—like a $7 million church purchase with no clear plan. Turnout’s been dismal so far—just 1.7% of voters have shown up. Maybe it’s the confusion of needing multiple ballots in some areas. Or maybe people just aren’t paying attention. Either way, the stakes are high. STORY 3: Gwinnett police chief pushes back in Peachtree Corners debate Nancy McGregor doesn’t see the point. The Peachtree Corners resident has been a supporter of the Gwinnett County Police Department for years, and after attending a community meeting with Police Chief J.D. McClure, she’s even more convinced: the city doesn’t need its own police force. “When you’ve got an elite department like Gwinnett’s—with their training, resources, and expertise—why would we try to replicate that?” McGregor said. The meeting, held at Peachtree Corners Baptist Church, was the first time residents heard directly from county police about the city’s proposal to break away and form its own department. McClure didn’t hold back. Crime in Peachtree Corners? Down across the board. Robberies dropped 40% this year, assaults 41%, and commercial burglaries a staggering 66%. But it’s not just about crime stats. McClure laid out what the city would lose: specialized units like SWAT, K9, and Behavioral Health, plus the county’s ability to surge officers during emergencies. Residents like Paul La Motte left the meeting impressed. “I’ve always been against the idea of a city police department, but now? I’m even more confident Gwinnett’s got this.” McGregor agreed. “Hearing their side just confirmed it for me. They’re doing a great job.” 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 STORY 4: Rotary joint manufacturer maierAMERICA marks 25 years in Gwinnett Back in 2000, Germany’s Christian Maier GmbH & Co. KG decided to plant roots in the U.S., and they picked Gwinnett County as their home base. Fast forward 25 years, and their subsidiary, maierAMERICA, is still here—thriving, growing, and making waves in the Norcross area. This week, the company celebrated two big milestones: 25 years in Gwinnett and 100 years since its parent company’s founding. The company’s growth has been impressive. Just last year, they tripled their space to 20,500 square feet. Gwinnett County Commission Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson marked the occasion with a proclamation, calling maierAMERICA’s success a testament to the county’s role as a hub for international business. German Consul General Melanie Moltmann and other officials echoed the sentiment, celebrating the deep ties between Germany and the U.S. STORY 5: Georgia Supreme Court upholds conviction from fatal DUI in Gwinnett Victor Allen Smith’s conviction is sticking. The Georgia Supreme Court unanimously upheld the 2023 verdict that found Smith, 59, guilty of killing 22-year-old Hugo Natanael Martinez while fleeing a state trooper in Gwinnett County. Smith, who was sentenced to life in prison, had argued that evidence about his 18-year license suspension unfairly swayed the jury. But the court didn’t buy it, ruling the evidence against him was overwhelming. Back in March 2022, Smith was clocked speeding over 80 mph on I-85—then hit 120 mph trying to outrun the trooper. Martinez, standing by his truck on the shoulder, sadly never stood a chance. Smith struck him, sending him over a retaining wall. STORY 6: ART BEAT: Nocross Gallery's 'Shapes' fundraiser features artists in a friendly bidding war The bidding’s still going strong at Norcross Gallery and Studios! Their annual fundraiser, “Norcross Shapes,” runs through Nov. 2 at 2 p.m., and it’s a must-see (and bid) event. This month-long auction, which kicked off Oct. 5, supports everything from artist programs and community outreach to high school exhibitions and ongoing classes. The best part? You can either outbid the competition or pay the “full price” to snag your favorite piece on the spot. The artwork is as diverse as it gets—paintings, pottery, jewelry, even gift baskets. And the stories behind the pieces? Just as colorful. This year’s auction has no size limits, so expect everything from tiny treasures to statement pieces. Swing by the gallery at 116 Carlyle Street in downtown Norcross, open Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don’t miss it! STORY 7: Gladiators Legend: ECHL Hall of Famer Cam Brown Dies at 56 When the Gwinnett Gladiators needed a leader back in 2003, they found one in Cam Brown. Fresh out of retirement, the Canadian left winger joined the brand-new Duluth-based team, bringing grit, heart, and a lifetime of hockey experience. Over three seasons, he became the face of the franchise, leading them to a Kelly Cup Final and scoring the first goal in team history. On Sunday, fans and friends were devastated to learn Brown had passed away at just 56, reportedly in a motorcycle accident. Brown’s No. 44 jersey hangs in the rafters, a permanent reminder of his impact. He’s the only Gladiator in the ECHL Hall of Fame, a league he helped shape with 789 games, 206 goals, and 2,425 penalty minutes. Old school? Absolutely. But that’s what made him special. Brown leaves behind his wife, two children, and a legacy that stretches far beyond the rink. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for October 25th Publish Date: October 25th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, October 25th and Happy Birthday to Bobby Knight I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Georgia Gwinnett College to host Preview Day on Nov. 8 Midway magic: Netherworld delivers the ultimate Halloween experience New principals named at Gwin Oaks Elementary and Jordan Middle School 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 STORY 1: Georgia Gwinnett College to host Preview Day on Nov. 8 Thinking about becoming a Grizzly? Georgia Gwinnett College is rolling out the welcome mat for future students and their families on Nov. 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., for Preview Day. What’s on tap? A little bit of everything. You’ll meet professors, chat with current students, and explore over 45 academic programs. There’s a guided campus tour (yes, they’ll show you the dorms), plus a peek into GGC’s buzzing student life—clubs, events, and all the support you didn’t know you needed. Ready to check it out? Register at www.ggc.edu/PreviewDays. STORY 2: Midway magic: Netherworld delivers the ultimate Halloween experience Sure, it’s football season. And the leaves are doing their thing. But let’s be real—it’s spooky season, and there’s no better place to dive into the chills than Netherworld Haunted House in Stone Mountain. This year’s frights? “Monsters Attack!” and the double feature “Oblivion: Return of the Mangler, Featuring Grendel’s Feast.” Terrifying, right? But the real chaos? The Midway. Between haunts, you’ll find food, games, photo ops, and maybe even a monster or two lurking around. “The Midway is where the energy really explodes,” said co-founder Billy Messina. Think nachos, creepy drinks, escape rooms, and the House of Creeps Monster Museum. Tickets? Grab ’em early at fearworld.com. STORY 3: New principals named at Gwin Oaks Elementary and Jordan Middle School Two Gwinnett schools are getting new leaders, the district announced last week. At its Oct. 16 meeting, the Gwinnett County Board of Education approved Wendy C. McDonald as the new principal of Gwin Oaks Elementary, replacing Dr. Craig Barlow, who’s retiring. McDonald, currently an assistant principal at Trickum Middle, started her career in Louisiana before joining GCPS in 2005. She’s got degrees in political science, early childhood education, and literacy—all from UGA. Over at Jordan Middle, Alex “Hunter” McRae will take the reins from Melissa M. Miller, who’s moving to Bay Creek Middle. McRae, a GCPS veteran since 2000, has a background in music education and leadership. 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 STORY 4: Georgia Department of Education recognizes five Gwinnett schools on 2025 Distinguished and Reward Schools list Big news for Gwinnett schools! Jackson Elementary, Mountain Park Elementary, Paul Duke STEM High, and Trip Elementary have been named 2025 Distinguished Schools by the Georgia Department of Education. What does that mean? They’re in the top 5% of Title I schools statewide, based on ELA and math scores. Pretty impressive, right? And there’s more—Arcado Elementary snagged the 2025 Title I Reward School honor, recognizing the top 5% of schools making the biggest improvements over two years. Each school gets a certificate, a flag, and a shot at a national award. STORY 5: Contested mayoral races top ballots in three cities This fall’s municipal elections are heating up, especially in three cities with contested mayoral races. While most ballots focus on city council seats, Loganville, Braselton, and Sugar Hill voters have some big decisions to make. In Loganville, it’s an open race—Mayor Skip Baliles is retiring. Voters will choose between City Councilman Branden Whitfield and local business owner John Soesbe to take the reins. Braselton’s Mayor Kurt Ward is up against two challengers: Michael Cronic, a former school board chair, and Brandon Reed, founder of ReeDesign MFG. Over in Sugar Hill, Mayor Brandon Hembree faces watchdog Amber Chambers in his first re-election bid. Meanwhile, Dacula, Grayson, and Norcross mayors are cruising to re-election unopposed. STORY 6: Lawrenceville City Council races come ahead of big annexation vote Lawrenceville’s city council races are in the spotlight this year—and not just because it’s the county seat. There’s also a big annexation vote looming in May that could add 19,000 new residents to the city. The leaders elected in November? They’ll be the ones managing that growth if it happens. Incumbents Austin Thompson (Post 3) and Marlene Taylor Crawford (Post 4) are both seeking re-election, but they’ve got challengers. Thompson faces former FOX 5 reporter Randy Travis, while Crawford is up against Gwinnett Sheriff’s Office Major Bryant Harris. Thompson, an engineer and small business consultant, is focused on economic growth, affordable housing, and making Lawrenceville a “city of the future.” He’s all-in on the annexation, saying it’ll bring character and opportunity to the city. Travis, meanwhile, is leaning on his decades of local visibility and says he’ll focus on traffic, taxes, and expanding the city’s tax base without burdening current residents. He’s also committed to explaining the annexation’s benefits to those in the proposed area. In the Post 4 race, Crawford, a school counselor and longtime community advocate, is pushing for equity across all neighborhoods—no more blight in one area and prosperity in another. She supports the annexation but stresses the need to expand services thoughtfully. Harris, with a deep background in law enforcement, is prioritizing safety, youth programs, and traffic solutions. He’s for the annexation too but says the city must ensure new residents get the same quality of services current ones enjoy. With so much at stake, these races are ones to watch. STORY 7: Gwinnett Counselor named Georgia School Counselor of the Year Crews Middle School’s Shayla Thompson just got some well-deserved applause—she’s been named Georgia School Counselor of the Year by the Georgia School Counselor Association. “I’m beyond grateful,” Thompson said. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about the incredible leaders, colleagues, and students who’ve supported me every step of the way. I couldn’t do this without them.” The surprise announcement came with flowers, a banner, and a visit from GSCA President Gabrielle Brundidge. Principal Cindy Moffett called Thompson’s work “inspiring,” adding, “She makes every student feel seen and valued.” Thompson, who’s also the 2025 GCPS Middle School Counselor of the Year, said, “Everything I do is for the students.” We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 24th Publish Date:  October 24th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, October 24th and Happy Birthday to Kevin Kline I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Mableton candidates share plans to tackle homelessness amid rising concerns Turnout remains steady in Week 2 of early voting Brazilian steakhouse coming to Cumberland Mall Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths 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: Mableton candidates share plans to tackle homelessness amid rising concerns  Homelessness is a growing issue in Cobb County, and Mableton, as the county’s newest city, isn’t immune. As of February, five homeless encampments were identified in the area. Local resources like Family Life Restoration Center and HOPE Family Resource Center are working to help, but the challenge is complex. In August, a former Wingate Hotel near Six Flags was converted into housing for homeless veterans, despite pushback from Mableton’s City Council. With two contested City Council races on the Nov. 4 ballot, candidates were asked how they’d address homelessness. District 2 Michael McNeely emphasized collaboration: “We need an asset map to identify resources and capacity, especially as the weather changes. I’ll work with elected officials, churches, and nonprofits like Family Life Restoration to create a sustainable plan.” Incumbent Dami Oladapo focused on partnerships and community action: “We can expand resources with groups like HOPE Family Resource Center and Family Life Restoration. But it’s not just about institutions—neighbors coming together to collect blankets or food makes a real impact. Long-term, we need attainable housing and neighborhood revitalization.” District 4 Patricia Auch acknowledged the complexity: “We direct people to nonprofits like MUST Ministries and Sweetwater Mission, but homelessness often involves mental health or substance abuse issues. It’s not just about finding a home—it’s about addressing deeper problems.” Cassandra Brown, meanwhile, stressed connection over criminalization: “We need to link unhoused residents to local nonprofits already doing the work, like Family Life Restoration and HOPE. MUST Ministries is great, but it’s too far—over two hours by bus. We need solutions closer to home.” Homelessness remains a tough, multifaceted issue, but candidates agree: it’ll take compassion, collaboration, and creativity to make progress. STORY 2: Turnout remains steady in Week 2 of early voting  Early voting in Cobb County is off to a slow but steady start, with just under 6% of eligible voters casting ballots so far. Monday and Tuesday saw the second- and third-highest turnout days, with 1,410 and 1,495 voters, respectively. Friday still holds the top spot with 1,728 votes. Some locations, like the Cobb Elections Main Office in Marietta, are seeing spikes—554 voters showed up Tuesday. East Cobb’s Government Service Center also had its busiest days, with 321 voters Monday and 329 Tuesday. Early voting runs through Oct. 31 at seven locations countywide, with hours varying by day. Election Day is Nov. 4. STORY 3: Brazilian steakhouse coming to Cumberland Mall  Fogo de Chão, the beloved Brazilian steakhouse known for its tableside meat service, is heading to Cumberland Mall, taking over part of the old Sears site. This week, the Cobb Board of Commissioners gave the green light for the mall’s site plan update, paving the way for an 8,670-square-foot restaurant between Dick’s Sporting Goods and Cobb Parkway. If you’re unfamiliar, Fogo de Chão is all about churrasco—Brazilian barbecue where meats are roasted over an open flame and carved right at your table. Guests use a green-and-red disc to signal servers: green means “keep it coming,” red means “I’m stuffed.” This will be Georgia’s third Fogo location, joining Buckhead and Dunwoody. 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 2 STORY 4: Cobb School Board vice chair ordered to repay $225,000 in lawsuit settlement On Wednesday, a Fulton County judge ordered Cobb School Board Vice Chair John Cristadoro to pay $225,000 to Sagicor Life Insurance Company after allegations of misappropriated funds. According to court documents, Cristadoro’s marketing firm, Alliance Activation, received $250,000 from Sagicor to fund an advertising campaign. Of that, $225,000 was meant for a third-party vendor, Sunburst Entertainment, but the money never made it there. Instead, it was allegedly used to cover Alliance’s operating expenses—and even Cristadoro’s personal credit card bills. Judge Wesley Tailor ruled Cristadoro must pay $186,000 within three days, followed by $500 monthly payments until the full amount is settled. Cristadoro denied wrongdoing, calling the settlement a business negotiation and accusing critics of “manufacturing outrage.” However, parents and activists, including Heather Tolley-Bauer of Watching the Funds Cobb, pushed for transparency, opposing Cristadoro’s attempt to seal the settlement details. If Cristadoro defaults, the unpaid balance will accrue 10% interest until paid. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Oct. 24 - 26 Cobb Fall Festival of Fun This Saturday, the Fall Festival of Fun is back at Jim R. Miller Park from 5 to 10 p.m. Expect hayrides, carnival games, a petting zoo, and yes, a haunted house ($5 entry). Parking and admission? Totally free. Acworth’s Halloween JamBOOree Dinosaurs, fairies, and who-knows-what-else will take over Logan Farm Park this Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m. Games, rides, live music, and a costume contest at 5 p.m. make it a must. Spooky Movies at The Strand Catch Hocus Pocus at Marietta’s Strand Theatre Saturday at 3 or 8 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Kennesaw’s Nightmare on Main 5k Run, don’t walk! The Nightmare on Main 5k kicks off at 8 a.m. Saturday in downtown Kennesaw. Registration is $39. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 24th Publish Date: October 24th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 24th and Happy Birthday to Kevin Kline I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County approves contract to build two fire stations Jordan Road to be closed Nov. 7-10 for railroad crossing work Ball Ground investigating complaint about email from council member Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County approves contract to build two fire stations Cherokee County’s getting two brand-new fire stations, and it’s about time. On Oct. 21, the Board of Commissioners gave the green light to a $17 million deal with Spratlin Construction to replace Fire Station 5 on East Cherokee Drive and Fire Station 29 on Cumming Highway. The current setups? Let’s just say they’re overdue for an upgrade. Station 5, built for volunteers back in the day, now crams six full-time firefighters into a shared bunk room. Over at Station 29, firefighters are working out of a temporary manufactured home. The new stations will have proper bunks, fitness areas, and space for equipment—finally. Construction kicks off summer 2026. STORY 2: Jordan Road to be closed Nov. 7-10 for railroad crossing work Heads up, drivers: Jordan Road will be closed at the railroad crossing near Highway 372 from Nov. 7-10, according to Cherokee County officials. The closure is just south of Nelson, so plan ahead. Detours? Yep, they’ve got you covered. Northbound traffic on Jordan Road should take Old Nelson Road, then Old Canton Road, Commerce Lane, and finally reconnect with Highway 372. Southbound? Stick to Highway 372, turn onto Commerce Lane, then Old Canton Road, and loop back via Old Nelson Road. It’s a bit of a maze, but temporary. Questions? Call Cherokee County Public Works at 770-345-5842. STORY 3: Ball Ground investigating complaint about email from council member The city of Ball Ground is looking into a complaint about an email sent by Councilmember Annette Homiller to a city employee—an email that’s stirred up quite a bit of controversy. On Sept. 24, Homiller, whose husband Dan is running for mayor against fellow Councilmember Dennis Nelson, emailed the employee from her personal account. In it, she asked who he was supporting in the mayoral race and brought up a past real estate deal, even suggesting there might be financial motives behind his support for Nelson. “I can’t think of any other reason why you would support Dennis over Dan,” she wrote, adding a postscript: “Dan does not know that I sent this.” The employee has since filed a “hostile work environment” complaint, and the city is investigating. Homiller admitted to sending the email, calling it a “poorly written” mistake based on misinformation. “It was a bad idea from the start, and I deeply regret it,” she said, adding that she’s apologized to the mayor, her colleagues, and others involved. Her husband, Dan, defended her, saying, “She made a mistake—who hasn’t hit send on an email they wish they could take back?” Meanwhile, Nelson’s campaign confirmed the complaint in an Oct. 9 Facebook post, calling for a full investigation to protect city employees from political pressure. 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: COBB FALL FESTIVAL STORY 4: Woodstock council considers regulations for e-bikes  Woodstock might soon pump the brakes on e-bikes—or at least figure out where and how they can be ridden. At an Oct. 20 work session, Community Development Director Melissa Sigmund asked the City Council and Mayor Michael Caldwell to weigh in on regulating e-bikes, which combine pedaling with battery-powered motors. Complaints? Oh, there’ve been plenty. Here is what Mayor Michael Caldwell had to say about the e-bikes. MAYOR VO Sigmund explained the three e-bike tiers: Tiers 1 and 2 max out at 20 mph and are treated like regular bikes. Tier 3? They can hit 28 mph without pedaling, and that’s where things get tricky. Councilman David Potts said he’s seen modified e-bikes going even faster. Here is what Councilman David Potts had to say on this issue. COUNCILMAN VO Sigmund floated ideas: allowing kids under 12 to ride on sidewalks, banning Tier 3 e-bikes from trails, and requiring all bikes to yield to pedestrians. Education and signage would be key, she added. No decisions yet, but the council plans to revisit the issue soon. STORY 5: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 11  The Cherokee County football power rankings are in, and as Week 11 kicks off, there’s plenty to unpack. Sequoyah (7-1, 4-1)The Chiefs are rolling. Two straight wins since their only loss (to River Ridge), and now they face a winless Pope team. Let’s be real—another W feels inevitable. But the real showdown? The finale against Creekview, with the region title likely on the line. River Ridge (6-2, 3-2)The Knights have a huge test this week against Creekview. A win could shake up the playoff race, but QB Hunter Lockerman’s health is a question mark. Can Camden Cox carry the load? Creekview (4-4, 4-1)Don’t let the record fool you—this team’s dangerous. Backup QB Landon Barnes was flawless in their blowout of Pope. But with River Ridge and Sequoyah up next, the Grizzlies have a brutal road ahead. Woodstock (5-3, 3-2)The Wolverines are clinging to playoff hopes. A win at Riverwood this week is crucial before their finale against Sprayberry. Coach Dan Devine knows what’s at stake: “It’s all on the line.” Cherokee (1-8, 0-5)The Warriors showed fight against North Cobb, led by Brandon Hamilton’s 138 yards and two TDs. They’ll look to close out their season—and say goodbye to Tommy Baker Field—with a win over Marietta. Etowah (3-6, 1-4)It’s been a tough stretch for the Eagles, but they’ve already surpassed last year’s win total. A victory at North Cobb in their finale would be a solid step forward under new coach Brett Vavra. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 9   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for October 23rd Publish Date: October 23rd PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, October 23rd and Happy birthday to Weird Al Yankovich I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. 'Fall back' — Daylight Saving Time ends Nov. 2 Gwinnett Tech hosts inaugural Gryphon Gratitude Breakfast Georgians react to Instagram 'PG-13' rating policy Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths 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: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: 'Fall back' — Daylight Saving Time ends Nov. 2 Like it or not, it’s that time again—Daylight Saving Time ends on Nov. 2, and we “fall back” an hour. Darker evenings, groggy mornings, and maybe an extra cup of coffee (or three). But does this time shift really matter anymore? Dr. Jason Delaney, an economics professor at Georgia Gwinnett College, doesn’t think so. “It was about saving energy back when lighting and heating were inefficient, and air conditioning didn’t exist. That’s not the world we live in now,” he said. “Economically, the impact is minimal.” Psychologist Dr. David Ludden sees it differently: “It messes with your body. We’re not built to adjust quickly—our sleep cycles rely on light cues.” His advice? Get outside in natural light or use bright indoor lights during the day to help reset your internal clock. So, while the time change might feel like a relic of the past, it still throws us off—at least for a little while. STORY 2: Gwinnett Tech hosts inaugural Gryphon Gratitude Breakfast On Oct. 15, Gwinnett Tech Foundation hosted its first-ever Gryphon Gratitude Breakfast, and the room was packed—150 donors, students, and community partners all gathered to celebrate the life-changing power of giving. It wasn’t just about handshakes and thank-yous. Students stood up and shared raw, personal stories—how scholarships kept them in school, how the Foundation gave them a shot at a future they almost gave up on. “Every donation has a face,” said Darcie Johnson, the Foundation’s executive director. “You’re not just giving money—you’re changing lives.” The event wrapped with a challenge: “Fuel Your Purpose.” A reminder to give, to act, to make it count. STORY 3: Georgians react to Instagram 'PG-13' rating policy   Meta’s new “PG-13” filter for Instagram? Let’s just say Georgians aren’t exactly buying it. The company claims the filter will block posts with strong language, risky stunts, or content promoting harmful behaviors—like drug paraphernalia. Sounds good on paper, right? But critics are calling it a PR stunt, not a real solution. Sharon Winkler, who lost her 17-year-old son Alex to suicide in 2017, isn’t convinced. “This feels like another empty promise to make parents feel safe,” she said. Counselor Laura Ladefian agrees. “Filters won’t fix the algorithms that make these platforms addictive,” she said. “It’s like putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm.” 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: State names Suwanee an 'exceptional' main street city  Suwanee’s got some bragging rights—officially. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs just named it one of the state’s newest Georgia Exceptional Main Street (GEMS) communities. Canton snagged the other spot, but let’s focus on Suwanee for a second. Why the honor? It’s all about their downtown. Public spaces, smart planning, and a vibe that mixes charm with progress. Earning GEMS status isn’t easy. Cities have to prove they’re not just growing economically but also keeping their unique character intact. Suwanee nailed it. STORY 5: AMC brings first new Dolby Experience to Gwinnett since 2017 Big news for movie lovers in Gwinnett—Dolby Cinema is back after an eight-year hiatus. This past weekend, AMC unveiled its brand-new Dolby Cinema at the AMC Dine-In Webb Gin 11 on Scenic Highway in unincorporated Lawrenceville. It’s the first Dolby Experience in the county since 2017, and honestly? It’s a game-changer. Think ultra-vivid colors, insane brightness, and sound so immersive it feels like it’s crawling up your spine. Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos combine to make every scene hit harder—like you’re in the movie, not just watching it. This upgrade came after three months of renovations, and AMC isn’t stopping here. They’re planning 40 more Dolby locations nationwide, aiming for over 200 total. For now, though, Gwinnett’s got something to brag about. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1 / 4 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 22nd Publish Date: October 22nd Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, October 22nd and Happy Birthday to Christopher Llyod I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. State approves Wellstar's application for 230-bed hospital in Acworth 2. Judge denies request to seal settlement involving Cobb school board vice chair 3. Sixth suspect charged in hotel shooting that killed baby 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: State approves Wellstar's application for 230-bed hospital in Acworth Well, it’s official—Wellstar’s getting the green light to build a massive new hospital on Cobb Parkway. The Georgia Department of Community Health gave the thumbs-up to their $1 billion plan for a 230-bed facility in Acworth. Big news, right? Apparently, Wellstar pitched this back in May, saying the area’s bursting at the seams with demand for hospital beds. And yeah, some rival health systems tried to block it—because of course they did—but Wellstar’s exec Matthew O’Connor wasn’t having it. He basically said, “Look, we’re the only ones who can handle this.” The hospital? Eight stories, 675,000 square feet, emergency bays, operating rooms—the works. It’s supposed to ease the load on their Marietta location, which is practically bursting at 98.5% capacity. Plus, it’ll bring 1,500 jobs to the area. STORY 2: Judge denies request to seal settlement involving Cobb school board vice chair So, here’s the deal: a Fulton County judge just said “nope” to sealing the settlement terms in a lawsuit involving Cobb school board VP John Cristadoro. Privacy concerns? Not enough to outweigh the public’s right to know, according to Judge Wesley Tailor. He didn’t mince words—“no reason” to keep it under wraps. The backstory? Cristadoro and his marketing firm were accused of pocketing $250K meant for advertising at sports games. He denied it, of course, but the case dragged on for over a year before both sides finally settled. They wanted the terms sealed. Parents like Heather Tolley-Bauer? Not having it. “Transparency matters,” she said. STORY 3: Sixth suspect charged in hotel shooting that killed baby 2 / 4 A sixth person’s been charged in that awful Cumberland hotel shooting—the one that killed a 9-month-old baby. Nateemah Ware, 32, from Marietta, is accused of hiding two suspects, Jayvian Young and Anthony Smith, in her apartment near the Chattahoochee River. Police say she knew what went down and still helped them. She was arrested on Oct. 6 but got out the same day on an $8,470 bond. The shooting happened Sept. 23 at the Budgetel Inn. A baby girl—just 9 months old—was hit by gunfire. Her mom was there. Can you even imagine? She didn’t make it. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: COBB FALL FESTIVAL STORY 4: Cobb begins second week of early voting So, here’s the scoop: early voting’s kicked off in Cobb County, and so far, just over 6,000 people have cast their ballots. That’s, what, about 3.86% of eligible voters? Not exactly a stampede, but hey, it’s early. Marietta’s leading the charge with more than 2,300 voters showing up at the main office on Roswell Street. Other spots? East Cobb had 1,071, Mableton 950, and so on—Austell brought up the rear with 271. People are trickling in steadily, no lines, no drama. Hamilton Shelfer, a Tampa transplant, said he’s all about staying informed—property taxes are on his radar. Meanwhile, Kassie Jones called voting her “civic duty,” and Guy Williams? He’s just here for the low-stress vibes of early voting. Oh, and if you’re wondering, polls are open through Oct. 31 at seven locations. Bring your ID, check your voter page, and don’t wait till the last minute. STORY 5: Two Hillgrove High School students selected for State Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council Big news for Hillgrove High sophomores Adrianne Marriott and Jillian Taylor—they’ve snagged spots on State Superintendent Richard Woods’ 2025-2026 Student Advisory Council. Out of 1,200+ applicants, only 79 made the cut, and these two are in. Pretty impressive, right? Their job? Sit down with Woods throughout the year, talk about what’s actually happening in classrooms, and give him the real-deal student perspective. They’ll also tackle service projects and act as school ambassadors. Woods said he’s pumped to hear from students directly—“the ones living it every day.” First meeting’s in November in Atlanta. Exciting stuff ahead! Break: 3 / 4 STORY 6: Sheriff’s Office introduces horse therapy work program for jail inmates The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office has rolled out a pretty unique program—jail inmates working with horses. Yep, horses. Low-risk detainees now get to team up with the mounted patrol unit, helping care for the horses and handling barn chores. Sheriff Craig Owens says it’s about more than just mucking stalls—it’s about teaching responsibility, patience, and, honestly, a little humanity. Three days a week, participants groom, bathe, and feed the horses, all under supervision. And apparently, it works. Studies show programs like this can cut recidivism in half. Therapeutic? Sure. Practical? Absolutely. Sheriff’s office says they’ll keep an eye on the results. STORY 7: Breast Cancer Awareness: Two Kennesaw Mountain teachers beat cancer at the same time At Kennesaw Mountain High, 2019 was a year of grit, heartbreak, and unexpected strength for two teachers who refused to let cancer define them. Niki Jaquish, an English teacher, and Sherry Williams, who teaches math, both faced breast cancer head-on—while still showing up for their students. For Jaquish, it was round two after beating cancer in 2016. Thirty chemo sessions, 72 rounds of radiation—she kept teaching through it all. Williams, new to the fight, found herself leaning on Jaquish, who was just down the hall. They weren’t close before, but cancer has a way of forging bonds you never see coming. Some days were brutal. Chemo knocked them out, but they kept coming back. Why? Their students. Their students didn’t just support them—they protected them. They’d warn visitors not to get too close to Jaquish, knowing her immune system was fragile. They noticed when she was struggling and quietly stepped up. Now cancer-free, both teachers keep reminders of their journey—pink wristbands, thank-you notes—scattered around their classrooms. They’re symbols of survival, yes, but also of the community that carried them through. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 1 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com 4 / 4 Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ● www.ingles-markets.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, Podcast Journalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of the “Your Community” Podcast: Chelsea Brewer and Donna Vandergraff with Purdue Extension discuss the new "Steps to a Healthy You" curriculum that focuses on practical, science-based ways to choose more nutrient-dense foods that not only support long-term health but also keep you feeling satisfied and content. "Your Community" is one of the many new podcasts now available as Hoosier Ag Today presents YOUR Purdue Extension—a podcast network!

In this episode, Jessie Cruickshank sits down with evangelist and disciple-maker Mike Wiggin to talk about surrender, grace, and what it truly means to follow Jesus. Mike shares his powerful story of moving from legalism to life—how an encounter with grace changed everything—and why he's passionate about helping people not just believe in Jesus, but actually surrender to Him.Together, they unpack the difference between emotional experiences and true transformation, explore why so many church models miss the heart of discipleship, and introduce Mike's Simple Communities and Hope Dealer Training—a movement helping ordinary believers multiply the gospel in everyday life.It's an honest, hopeful conversation about faith that costs something, community that sustains, and the beauty of a gospel that's as simple as it is powerful.Learn more:Mike Wiggin: x2networks.orgORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjess ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.

In this special episode of the Scrum.org Community Podcast, Dave West sits down with Ken Schwaber, co-creator of Scrum, to celebrate 30 years since the initial introduction of Scrum at OOPSLA 1995, from which the paper, The Scrum Development Process was based.Ken reflects on the origins of Scrum, the cultural challenges faced during early adoption in large organizations, and the critical importance of transparency, honesty, and teamwork. He shares insights into how Scrum has influenced software development practices such as DevOps and continuous delivery, and offers his perspective on AI as a tool to support—rather than replace—human teams.From early pioneers to the modern evolution of Scrum, Ken shares stories, lessons, and hopes for the future: that Scrum will continue helping people and organizations achieve fulfillment, innovation, and success.Join us for a thoughtful, candid conversation with one of the foundational voices of Agile.

Top Stories for October 18th Publish Date: October 18th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, October 18th and Happy Birthday to Chuck Berry I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Sugar Rush takes over Sugar Hill this weekend Glow 5K set for Nov. 9 at Lanier Islands Resort Duluth wins national award for downtown selfie stations 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 STORY 1: Sugar Rush takes over Sugar Hill this weekend Sugar Hill’s biggest bash is back this weekend, and it’s got a little something for everyone—art, music, family chaos (the good kind), and that small-town community vibe you can’t fake. Saturday? Start with the 5K Color Run at 8 a.m. (registration’s at 7, if you’re ambitious). Then, from 10 to 6, downtown transforms into an art-lover’s dream: 100+ vendors, a pumpkin patch, live art demos, and even a biergarten for the grown-ups. Sunday keeps the fun rolling at noon with gold mining, aerial silks, animal shows, and—yes—a mascot dance-off. Because why not? STORY 2: Glow 5K set for Nov. 9 at Lanier Islands Resort Lanier Islands’ Magical Night of Lights is kicking off the holiday season with a festive twist—the Dashing Through the Glow 5K on Sunday, Nov. 9. Picture this: running (or walking, no judgment) through a wonderland of Christmas lights at dusk. Toy soldiers, candy canes, even pickleball-playing elves—it’s all there. The race starts at 5:45 p.m. and is capped at 1,500 participants, so don’t wait. Registration includes a cozy crewneck (or hoodie, if you upgrade), a finisher medal, and Santa bobblehead trophies for top runners. Proceeds? They go to the Georgia Mountain Food Bank. Holiday vibes for a good cause. STORY 3: Duluth wins national award for downtown selfie stations Duluth just snagged some national bragging rights, winning a Silver Circle Award for Graphic Design at the 2025 Savvy Awards. The ceremony? Held Sept. 4 at Planet Hollywood in Vegas—because where else would you celebrate creativity? The city’s Downtown Selfie Stations project stole the spotlight. These colorful, interactive signs scattered around downtown Duluth aren’t just for decoration—they’re an invitation. Snap a pic, share it online, and show off the city’s charm. Judges called it “fun, intuitive, and memorable.” Mayor Greg Whitlock summed it up: “This award reflects our commitment to connecting with the community in fresh, creative ways.” 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 STORY 4: A legacy of healing — Documentary tells ReCAST Lawrenceville’s journey through residents’ stories Four years ago, Lawrenceville landed a $5 million federal grant to launch ReCAST, a program aimed at building resilience and supporting mental health in the community. Since then? It’s been a lifeline for so many. To celebrate its impact, ReCAST just released a 17-minute documentary featuring three residents—Josiah Hardy, Success Bonds, and Nadia Hill—whose lives were changed by the program. Jobs, housing, counseling—it’s all there. Program manager Marcus Thorne says the work isn’t done. With the grant set to expire next year, the focus is on sustainability. STORY 5: Delta CEO: Employees who 'glorified' murder 'lost the right to serve our customers' Delta CEO Ed Bastian took the stage at the Gas South District in Duluth on Wednesday to talk leadership, but the conversation veered into controversy—specifically, the firing of a Delta flight attendant who celebrated Charlie Kirk’s murder on social media. The employee’s Facebook post, which read “good riddance,” sparked outrage. Two weeks later, they were fired. Bastian didn’t mince words: “When someone glorifies violence like that, they’ve lost the privilege of being a Delta employee. We serve everyone, no matter their views.” He also revealed Delta’s next big move: direct flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, through a new partnership with Riyadh Air. “It’s coming soon,” he teased. STORY 6: Lawrenceville to host Atlanta Christkindl Market The Atlanta Christkindl Market is packing up its twinkling lights and bratwurst and heading to Lawrenceville this December. After years in Buckhead, it’s found a new home at the Lawrenceville Lawn—bigger, better, and ready for more holiday magic. Think mulled wine, handmade ornaments, and that cozy, old-world German charm, all with a dash of Atlanta’s energy. Since 2016, this market has been a holiday favorite, drawing crowds from all over Georgia (and beyond). Opening Nov. 28 and running through Christmas Eve, it’s free to attend. So grab your scarf, your appetite, and maybe a little extra room in your heart for holiday cheer. STORY 7: Greater Atlanta Christian Grad Malcolm Brogdon Retires After 9 NBA Seasons Malcolm Brogdon, a Greater Atlanta Christian alum, shocked the basketball world Wednesday, announcing his retirement from the NBA after nine seasons. The timing? Just a month after signing a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Knicks. “Today, I officially begin my transition out of basketball,” Brogdon shared with ESPN. “This game has demanded so much—mind, body, spirit—but it’s given me even more. I’m grateful to step away on my own terms, surrounded by family and friends.” The Knicks wished him well on social media: “Congrats on your retirement, Malcolm! Best of luck in your next chapter.” Brogdon’s career was nothing short of remarkable. A second-round pick in 2016, he defied expectations, earning Rookie of the Year with Milwaukee and Sixth Man of the Year with Boston. Injuries slowed him in recent years, but his impact never wavered. Before the NBA, he was a star at Virginia—ACC Player of the Year, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, and a first-team All-American. And let’s not forget his high school days: back-to-back state titles at GAC, Mr. Georgia Basketball, and two-time Daily Post Player of the Year. A legacy? Absolutely. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 17th Publish Date:  October 17th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, October 17th and Happy Birthday to Alan Jackson I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb County Sheriff's Office welcomes newest GED graduates ACT scores increase in Cobb, dip in Marietta KSU student arrested after protesting Charlie Kirk memorial 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: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Cobb County Sheriff's Office welcomes newest GED graduates The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office hosted its third GED graduation of the year on Oct. 8, right inside the Adult Detention Center. Seven detainees walked away with diplomas in hand—proof that change is possible, even behind bars. Since the program launched in March 2024, over 30 detainees have earned their GEDs. The ceremony was heartfelt, with speeches from Chief Deputy Rhonda Anderson, Col. Michael Williams, and Dr. Kim Kranzlin of Cobb Adult Education. The program isn’t easy—four subjects, a minimum score of 145, and 40+ hours of study. But for these seven, it’s a step toward something better. STORY 2: ACT scores increase in Cobb, dip in Marietta  ACT scores are in, and Cobb County is celebrating its highest average in four years, while Marietta High saw a slight dip. Cobb’s average jumped to 23.7 (up 0.9 points), while Marietta landed at 22.2 (down 0.5). Both still outpaced state (21.4) and national (19.4) averages. Wheeler High led Cobb with a stellar 28.5 average, even climbing 2.5 points from last year. Meanwhile, Marietta students continued to outperform state and national peers in every subject, despite the slight drop. “Success takes time,” said Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera. “Hard work and curiosity drive our students forward.” Georgia students, for the ninth year, beat the national average. STORY 3: KSU student arrested after protesting Charlie Kirk memorial  A protest at Kennesaw State University’s memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk ended in chaos Tuesday night, with one student, Luca Compiani, 18, arrested on charges of battery and obstruction. According to police, Compiani “intentionally” bumped into KSU Police Capt. Timothy Murphy in a “provoking manner” and fled when confronted. Protesters, however, claim the situation was escalated unnecessarily, calling the arrest “a gross abuse of authority.” The memorial, hosted by Young Americans for Liberty, drew both supporters and protesters. Some shouted chants, others threw ketchup at a flag. Despite the tension, organizers said the event achieved its goal: promoting free speech—even amid dissent. 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 10 STORY 4: 1,100+ voters cast ballots on Day 1 of early voting  Nearly 1,200 Cobb County voters turned out Monday for the first day of early voting, with Marietta leading the charge. Of the 1,193 ballots cast, 481 came from the Cobb Elections Main Office, while Mableton saw 221 voters at the South Cobb Community Center. Michael D’Itri, acting director of Cobb Elections, said turnout usually starts strong, dips mid-period, then surges in the final days. For Marietta voter Chris Danos, 28, the mayoral race is top of mind. “We need better transportation options,” he said. Meanwhile, Dan and Vicki Rupnow, who moved from Atlanta, love Marietta’s walkability and lighter traffic. “It’s perfect for us,” they said. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Oct. 17 - 19 Marietta HarvestFest Marietta Square is the place to be this Saturday for HarvestFest—think scarecrows, costumes, games, and all the fall vibes. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can wander Glover Park, shop the craft show, or dive into a pie-eating contest (messy, but worth it). Oh, and don’t miss the Big Chicken Cornerback’s Coop—a college football watch party. Bring a lawn chair and settle in. Smyrna Spooky Festival Market Village gets spooky Saturday night, 6–9 p.m., with trick-or-treating, a live DJ spinning Halloween jams, and a free outdoor showing of Hotel Transylvania. Costumes? Highly encouraged. Witches & Friends Paddle At Cauble Park in Acworth, Halloween hits the water! Decorate your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and join the fun Saturday at 9 a.m. Registration’s $45, and spectators watch for free. Powder Springs Trunk-or-Treat Thurman Springs Park transforms into a candy wonderland Saturday at 10 a.m. Trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, and soak up the fall festivities. Mableton Pumpkin Chase 5K Costumes, candy, and a spooky 5K? The Mableton Pumpkin Chase 5k starts at 8am Saturday. Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre hosts this free event where spotting the “orange pumpkin runner” earns you a sweet treat. Proceeds go to the It Starts With Me 2 Foundation. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.