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===== 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.
A worldwide trend is happening as Tesla owners try to disguise their cars with other brands' logos. The political backlash for CEO Elon Musk has led to not only protests, but also vandalism. Nisreen Abdel-Majid has the details.Politics, power, murder, delivered with a quirky comedic spin? Michael McNeely dissects The Residence, a limited series trending on Netflix. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube!About AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaIncEmail feedback@ami.ca
On today's show, Music Critic Amanda Shekarchi recently chatted with singer/songwriter Christina Martin. Amanda is a musician herself. She is passionate about Christina's work as Christina produces audio described music videos. We hear about Amanda's conversation. We rip through Film Critic Michael McNeely's recently watched list; he's got the top highlights of what's out there on the big screens. And Alex Smyth joins us with what's to come on AMI's Parasport Nation. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube!About AMIAMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI's vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaIncEmail feedback@ami.ca
On today's show, Lia De Cicco Remu, a seasoned Canadian education leader, has written a book titled, ‘How to Talk to Teachers'. The book is designed to empower parents to communicate effectively with teachers. Lia stops by to chat about this brand-new book. Aaron Broverman shares his thoughts on the Canadian Banking Association's report about how costumers are shifting towards more digital options. Marc Aflalo shares some tips and ideas for parents looking to bargain hunt for back-to-school tech. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the new John Cena movie, Jackpot!
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the new John Cena movie, Jackpot!
Film Critic, Michael McNeely chats about “View Askewniverse”. A shared universe created by Kevin Smith, featuring a series of interconnected films.
Dawn Dickinson of MacLean's Magazine previews this week's episode which dives into the environmental impacts of air travel. Bo Hedges is heading to his 5th Paralympic Games as a member of the Canadian wheelchair basketball team. Alex Smyth shares an interview with Bo on his road to the Paralympics. Jennie Bovard trots by to discuss whether or not 10 thousand steps a day should be the golden standard for a daily fitness goal. Tech Expert, Marc Aflalo shares his thoughts on the ‘Made by Google' event which saw multiple phones and gadgets revealed. Film Critic, Michael McNeely chats about “View Askewniverse”. A shared universe created by Kevin Smith, featuring a series of interconnected films.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews ‘Janet Planet', a coming-of-age drama written and directed by Annie Baker.
Travis Murao has been a mainstay on the national wheelchair rugby team for many years. Alex Smyth shares an interview with Travis on his road to the Paralympics. Sault Ste Marie, Ontario is experimenting with a new traffic policy. Community Reporter, Dorthy Macnaughton shares the details. National Acadian Day is right around the corner. Moncton Community Reporter, Natalie Fougere explains what events are lined up. Video doorbells have become more and more popular over the past few years. But are they practical for those who are blind or partially sighted? Shaun Preece shares his thoughts. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews ‘Janet Planet', a coming-of-age drama written and directed by Annie Baker.
Divine G (Colman Domingo), wrongfully imprisoned at Sing Sing, finds purpose in a theater group with other inmates. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely is here to give us his thoughts on this drama movie.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Competing with kids: For a long time, motherhood and medalling didn't mix. Now, an army of Olympic parents are demanding accommodations and time off—without penalty. Dawn Dickinson is the content curator of Macleans Magazine and she gives us the details on this article. Every tech giant has been touting their own AI features and chatbots. There are some pros and cons when you apply a disability lens to AI. Kelly Bron Johnson has some thoughts on this and shares them. We are breaking down the newly announced Paralympic Cycling team with Nathan Clement. Mark Aflalo breaks down the latest Apple release of Ios 18.1. And, Divine G (Colman Domingo), wrongfully imprisoned at Sing Sing, finds purpose in a theater group with other inmates. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely is here to give us his thoughts on this drama movie.
Sunset Blvd" is a timeless classic that delves into the dark underbelly of Hollywood, showcasing the haunting tale of faded fame, desperate ambition, and the ruthless pursuit of relevance in a rapidly changing film industry. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely is here to give us his thoughts.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Usable.net released their midyear Americans with Disabilities Act Web Lawsuit report. Denis Boudreau dives into the data. The Bank of Canada dropped its key interest again last week. What does this mean for the economy and mortgage rates? Ryan Chin shares his expertise. CTV's The Amazing Race Canada returned for its 10th season. Two contestants, Tyson and Michael share their experience. Buddy League is an adaptive baseball program that provides children and adults with the opportunity to play baseball in a safe, supportive, and friendly environment. Cam Linwood of Buddy League shares more details. And, “Sunset Blvd" is a timeless classic that delves into the dark underbelly of Hollywood, showcasing the haunting tale of faded fame, desperate ambition, and the ruthless pursuit of relevance in a rapidly changing film industry. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely is here to give us his thoughts.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Danny Ramadan was one of the first Syrian refugees to land in Canada in 2014. The settlement process was confusing, prolonged and alienating. Dawn Dickinson explores this article in her preview of Maclean's Magazine. The Paralympic Foundation of Canada has a unique fundraiser to help support athletes. Executive Director, Dean Brokop shares the details. The Caesar Salad turns 100 this month. Why is it so popular? Can it be considered a whole meal? Jennie Bovard drops by to discuss more. The Apple Vision Pro made its debut in Canada last week. Marc Aflalo was able to get his hands on one. He shares that experience. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the miniseries, ‘The Sympathizer'. It's based on the 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the miniseries, ‘The Sympathizer'. It's based on the 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews Jennifer Esposito directorial debut movie, ‘Fresh Kills'.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: How are things going so far up at Lake Joe? How are campers and counsellors settling in? Emilee Schevers provides an update. Iconic Canadian rockstar Bif Naked, just released her sixth studio album, ‘Champion'. She joins the program to talk more about her latest work. Samsung's July Galaxy Unpacked event took place yesterday. Marc Aflalo soaked it all in and shares what the company unveiled. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews Jennifer Esposito directorial debut movie, ‘Fresh Kills'.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the new American Crime movie starring Austin Butler and Tom Hardy, ‘The Bikeriders'.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown, Two-time Boccia Paralympian, Alison Levin is looking to medal for the first time at the 2024 Paris Games. Alex Smyth shares an exclusive interview with her on the Road to the Paralympics. Amazon had an Accessibility event in Toronto last week where they showed off some new smart home technology. Matisse Hamel-Nelis was there, and she shares what stood out to her. Vancouver Community Reporter, Nathan Clement is an advisor to this year's edition of Shim's Ride. Proceeds from the event benefit Praxis Spinal Cord Research. Nathan tells us all about it. Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner. Marc Aflalo drops by to highlight some categories that get the most discounts, and some tips for smart shopping. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the new American Crime movie starring Austin Butler and Tom Hardy, ‘The Bikeriders'.
June is Pride Month. Michael McNeely discusses trans representation in film with a review on the romantic drama “Solo”. From the June 27, 2024, episode.June is Pride Month. Michael McNeely discusses trans representation in film with a review on the romantic drama “Solo”. From the June 27, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Canadians are rethinking drinking culture. Dawn Dickinson explores why in her preview of Maclean's Magazine. “Inside Out 2” swept the box office this past weekend. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely reviews the film. Plus, the Smart Kitchen Summit recently took place in Seattle. Marc Aflalo recaps some of the latest gadgets to improve your kitchen. This is the June 20, 2024, episode.
“Inside Out 2” swept the box office this past weekend. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely reviews the film. From the June 20, 2024, episode.
Today is the 80th anniversary of D-Day. To commemorate the day, Michael McNeely shares a classic film review of Steven Spielberg's “Saving Private Ryan.” From the June 6, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: “Masters of the Air,” is the World War II miniseries produced by Tom Hanks and Executive produced by Steven Spielberg. Entertainment Critic, Kim Thistle breaks it down. Microsoft's cutting-edge creation, Copilot+ PCs, represents a significant leap forward in Windows technology. Marc Aflalo provides more detail. Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews a movie for all the arachnophobes out there, “Sting”.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews a movie for all the arachnophobes out there, “Sting”.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the classic movie, Casablanca. What are some conversations being had in Europe around the environment? Arno Kopecky just returned from a visit to Europe and tells us more. OpenAI turned some heads last week when they unveiled GPT4-o. Marco Pasqua took it for a test spin. He and Elizabeth Mohler share their thoughts.
Film Critic, Michael McNeely reviews the classic movie, Casablanca.
Wicked Little Letters” is a new mystery film starring Olivia Coleman. Michael McNeely reviews the flick. From the May 16, 2024 episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown, season five of “Postcards From” debuts this month, Christa Couture gives you a sneak preview. The 2024 UCI Para-cycling Road World Cup is taking place across Europe. Community reporter Nathan Clement gives you an update on how it's going. A Toronto restaurant owner attempted to waive tipping but had to bring it back. Dawn Dickinson shares this story in her preview of Maclean's Magazine. Apple unveiled new products this week, Marc Aflalo breaks down the details. And, Ryan Gosling's latest action-comedy flick debuted this past weekend. Michael McNeely shares his review of “The Fall Guy.” This is the May 9, 2024, episode.
Ryan Gosling's latest action-comedy flick debuted this past weekend. Michael McNeely shares his review of “The Fall Guy.”
The Hot Docs Film Festival is underway. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely shares his review of three featured documentaries: “The Ride Ahead,” “Silent Trees,” and “American Cats: The Good, the Bad, and the Cuddly.” From the May 2, 2024, episode.
Entertainment critic Michael McNeely previews three international films premiering at the 2024 Hot Docs Film Festival! From the April 25, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Ian White from the Canadian Council of the Blind tells you all about this years' Experience Expo! Dawn Dickinson previews Maclean's Magazine with an article that explores the various problems within the educational school system. Plus, Michael McNeely reviews three documentary films screening at the 2024 Hot Docs Film Festival! This is the April 25, 2024, episode.
Fallout is a new Prime Video series based on the popular video game franchise. Michael McNeely shares his review. From the April 18, 2024, episode.
Netflix's “Scoop” explores the story of how the BBC obtained the bombshell interview with Prince Andrew. Michael McNeely shares his review. From the April 11, 2024, episode.
A new documentary profiles the life of comedian and actor Steve Martin. Michael McNeely shares his review.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: A new documentary profiles the life of comedian and actor Steve Martin, Michael McNeely shares his review. New data shows business owners believe housing costs are the biggest impediment to economic growth in Canada. Certified Financial Planner Ryan Chin reacts to the numbers. The Halifax Burger Bash is raising funds for Feed Nova Scotia. Community Reporter Milena Khazanavicius serves up the details. And, the Ontario Provincial Goalball Tournament is set to take place this weekend. Emilee Schevers discusses her preparation for the tourney.
Love Lies Bleeding is garnering a lot of buzz. Michael McNeely shares his review of the romantic thriller starring Kristen Stewart!
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: The Quebec government plans to implement a new tuition model for fall 2024. Is the province going through a “Quiet Revolution”? Jacob Shymanski explores this subject in his preview of Maclean's Magazine on AMI-audio. Actor Madison Tevlin had a viral video on social media about the assumptions people make about down syndrome. Motivational speaker Alicia Grace discusses the importance of platforming disability on social media. There are a few new episodes of Low Vision Moments coming down the pipeline. Jennie Bovard gives you a sneak peek on what's to come! In the second hour of the show: Apple users are being warned to be wary of a targeted phishing attack. Marc Aflalo from Access Tech Live gives you the details. Love Lies Bleeding is garnering a lot of buzz. Michael McNeely shares his review of the romantic thriller starring Kristen Stewart!
The biographical drama “Origin” has recently become available on demand. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely has some thoughts on the movie. From the March 22, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: news panelists Michelle McQuigge and Alex Smyth discuss the update to the Elections Act and the crackdown on nicotine pouches. They also reflect on the results from the World Happiness Report. In the second hour of the show, Karen McKay from the Centre for Equitable Library Access highlights five featured books to celebrate World Water Day. Plus, entertainment critic Michael McNeely reviews the biographical drama “Origin.” This is the March 22, 2024, episode.
Oscar-winning film “The Sting” celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. Michael McNeely explores if the film still holds up five decades later. From the March 14, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Easter Seals Ontario and Ontario Personal Support Workers Association have a new partnership. They're joining forces to elevate Easter Seals' summer camp experiences for people with physical disabilities. Easer Seals Ontario President and CEO Kevin Collins stops by to share details on the program. Last week Wendy's caused a stir by floating the idea of introducing dynamic pricing at its restaurants. The backlash was swift and they walked away from that idea. Lead Editor at Forbes Advisor Canada Aaron Broverman offers context on that situation and explores dynamic pricing in the e-commerce industry. Last month Chief Accessibility Officer Stephanie Cadieux released her first report on accessibility in Canada. The report titled “Everyone's Business” was tabled in Parliament and provided an overview of the history of accessibility in Canada. It also outlines areas where increased action is needed. Stephanie Cadieux discusses the findings highlighted in her report. The Adam Sandler led “Spaceman” debuted on Netflix this month. It is based on the 2017 sci-fi novel “Spaceman of Bohemia.” Michael McNeely has a review of the film.
The Bob Marley biopic “One Love” is out in theatres. Entertainment critic Michael McNeely gives his review. From the February 22, 2024, episode.
Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Marc Aflalo tells you all about the Zero Project conference in Vienna, Austria. Michael McNeely reviews the Bob Marley biopic “One Love." And Amy Amantea shares her thoughts on the British limited series “One Day." This is the February 22, 2024, episode.
“The Marvels” dropped on Disney Plus this month. It is the 33rd film of the Marvel Universe. Have audiences reached genre fatigue? Entertainment critic Michael McNeely weighs in with his thoughts. From the February 15, 2024, episode.
The coming-of-age film “Didi” made its debut at Sundance. Michael McNeely reviews the flick. This is the February 1, 2024, episode.
The 2024 Sundance Film Festival is in full swing. Michael McNeely reviews the film “Never Look Away.” This the January 25, 2024, episode.
“American Fiction” has been garnering buzz during awards season. Michael McNeely reviews the flick. This the January 11, 2024, episode.
This week Iyanna and Kayla welcome Iyanna's dad, Michael McNeely, as they explore topics surrounding Iyanna's upbringing, adoption, and creating a healthy bond with your parents.