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===== 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.
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Second public hearing scheduled on parking changes The Cold Spring Village Board, at its Wednesday (Oct. 22) meeting, tabled recommendations from the Planning Board to approve 32 parking waivers for 1 Depot Square and 37 Main St. Since 2010, the board has granted waivers to businesses for $250 each, as payment in lieu of providing the required number of off-street spaces required by the Village Code when parking spaces are unavailable. On Wednesday, Mayor Kathleen Foley questioned the effectiveness of the waivers. "The physical reality of the village is that the parking waivers don't help us," she said. "It's cash in the door, but it doesn't get us closer to solving the (parking) problem." When waivers were initiated 15 years ago, (the first six were issued to Frozenberry, then at 116 Main St., where Angie's is located now), the village population didn't more than double on peak tourist weekends as it does now, she said. At 1 Depot Square, the code requires 14 off-street spots for a planned addition of a 1,250-square-foot event space at the south end of The Depot Restaurant. Angie's Bakery and Café also plans to move and expand at 37 Main St., which would require 18 off-street spots. Both locales are busy sections of the village. Brian Tormey, the owner of 37 Main St., said that while there is space behind the building, it isn't suitable for customer parking for logistical and safety reasons. Greg Pagones, who owns The Depot, said he's been using space owned by Metro-North adjacent to the restaurant for staff parking since 2007 through an informal agreement with the railroad. Pagones said Metro-North indicated several years ago it intended to formally renew the agreement, but that hasn't happened. Foley expressed concern over the lack of a contract with Metro-North. "If we enter an agreement based on the concept that that space is available to you, and a year from now, MTA says, 'Nope, you're out,' we've made decisions about parking based upon space you don't control," she said to Pagones. There was discussion as to whether Depot Square, often described as a private road, is actually a public street, and whether that status would affect off-street parking. Documents related to the street date to the mid-1800s. "There is a public right-of-way that encompasses essentially all of the roadway and the parking on either side," said the Planning Board attorney, Jonathan DeJoy. "On top of that, the street has been used as a public street for decades." The board tabled a decision on the parking waivers pending consultation with the village counsel. "We want to find middle ground that allows entrepreneurial efforts in the village to flourish," balanced with quality of life for residents, Foley said. In a Friday (Oct. 24) email, she described the situation as a quandary. "The practice of parking waivers has kicked the can for new developments down the road for a decade," she wrote. "Now the board has no option but to deal with the reality on the ground, weigh pros and cons, along with property rights, and make the best decision we can for the widest interests of the village. It is by no means a simple question." In other business … A second public hearing will be held on Nov. 12 at Village Hall on proposed changes to Chapter 126 of the Village Code, dealing with vehicles and traffic. The revisions proposed include limiting free parking on the east side of High Street to the section between Haldane Street and Northern Avenue and extending parking limits on both sides of Fair Street to include the section north of Mayor's Park to the village limits. Twenty-four winter parking permits will be available for the municipal lot on Fair Street. Permits cost $40 and are valid from Nov. 15 to April 15.
Applicant argued project would be 'low intensity' The Fishkill Planning Board earlier this month voted unanimously to deny an application to build a 51,500-square-foot self-storage facility just outside of Beacon, ending more than three years of review. The project sought to construct a two-story building with 333 self-storage units on a partially wooded, 4.7-acre parcel at 1292 Route 9D, between Van Ness Road in Beacon and Interstate 84. It would have required a special-use permit because the site is in Fishkill's restricted business zone, which does not permit self-storage facilities. To receive the permit, the Planning Board had to determine that the use is "substantially similar" to others allowed in the district, such as hotels, restaurants and offices. The board's attorney, Dominic Cordisco, explained during its Oct. 2 meeting that the application failed to meet any of the four criteria required to establish similarity: consistency with the town's comprehensive plan; consistency with the intent of the restricted business zone, which limits uses adjacent to neighborhoods; no adverse impacts to public health and safety; and no greater intensity of traffic, parking, noise and other impacts than allowed uses. Because it failed the substantial similarity test, the application was ineligible for Planning Board review. "It is, in effect, a denial, but it is the process that is laid out in the [town] code," Cordisco said. Cordisco said that the applicant had argued that a self-storage facility would be "low intensity" compared to uses allowed in the zone, "but that's not the test. The test is whether it's substantially similar and compatible with the district." Many residents, including from Beacon, had opposed the project. Beacon Mayor Lee Kyriacou last year asked the town to investigate alternative entries, saying that southbound drivers on 9D would likely make illegal left turns or U-turns to get into the facility. Kyriacou and others predicted that traffic would increase on nearby residential roads as drivers turned around to get to the site. To allay concerns, project officials said they would post directions online and petition GPS providers to use routes avoiding residential streets. A consultant hired by the town said that self-storage businesses are typically located in commercial or industrial zones. There is a self-storage facility on Route 9D, about a half mile from the proposed site, and another nearby on Route 52. After voting, Planning Board Chair Jonathan Caner noted that 1292 Realty LLC's request for a refund of $30,820 in application fees had been referred to Town Supervisor Ozzy Albra. Albra said on Thursday (Oct. 23) that the request was denied because, according to Cordisco's review, the costs incurred by the town and its consultants were "reasonable and necessary given the procedural and substantive issues and concerns posed by this application," including, in June, the unusual step of the Planning Board authorizing the town planner to finalize an environmental impact statement on the project.
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Planning Director Donna Benton about Dover's Capital Improvements Program (CIP). Benton explains that the CIP is a long-range planning document for purchasing or constructing capital assets. The process begins in early summer when departments submit project requests, which are then reviewed by a committee including the finance director, planning director, and city manager.The CIP encompasses diverse projects ranging from water and sewer line work to facilities improvements, recreation projects, and technology upgrades like network improvements. Each project must align with Dover's master plan and meet the city's financial policies. Benton notes that while there's no shortage of desired projects, capacity constraints in both staffing and funding require careful prioritization.Notable projects in the current CIP include the Broadway neighborhood improvements, which have been long-awaited since 2017, recreation court reconstruction, street tree and lighting improvements, and the Pointe Place roundabout. The fire department has also freed up approximately $1 million through strategic equipment purchases, allowing for reallocation to other projects.The CIP undergoes public review through the Planning Board and City Council, with public hearings scheduled in October and November. The Planning Board ensures alignment with the master plan while the City Council handles the financial approval. Projects with debt financing can begin before July 1st, though actual construction timing depends on whether design work has been completed.In This Week in Dover History, we learn about the devastating 1956 fire that destroyed Meyer Siegel's Central Avenue store, occurring just as he returned from court defending his right to open on Sundays.
[Video below] “Commercial and business is already there at that corner; the city just hasn't caught up yet,” Realtor Fred Ohnesorge told the Floresville Planning and Zoning Committee Oct. 14, referring to a property near Pecan Park. The committee held a special meeting to take action on a rezoning application for 1901 Third St. from residential to business, after a failed motion at the last meeting (see “Floresville families oppose retail development near Pecan Park,” Oct. 8 Wilson County News). Ohnesorge, who represents the owners of the property in question, told the committee that he believes the best use for...Article Link
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Planning Board - candidate Eric Steltzer. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The conversation runs about 22 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Eric Steltzer781-264-3662mailto:steltzerpb@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/SIbL1cXExCs 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Planning Board - Associate candidate William Lee IV. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The conversation runs about 29 minutes. Let's listen in --------------William J. Lee, IV 781-640-0363mailto:wjlee52394@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/wKknGaOAwCU 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Planning Board candidate Mark Mucciarone. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The conversation runs about 26 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Mark A. Mucciarone774-571-9800mailto:coachmooch@verizon.net Video link -> https://youtu.be/tfI_DMLKqPU 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
Would require permits, ban parties Philipstown's Town Board received draft regulations on Thursday (Oct. 2) for short-term rentals such as Airbnb and Vrbo that require annual permits, along with a ban on parties, limits on stays and requirements for off-site parking. Judy Farrell, a member of the Town Board and of the Short-Term Rental Committee it created to come up with a code governing STRs, said during the board's meeting that the group reviewed guidelines from Cold Spring and other towns but crafted regulations "specific to Philipstown." Their goals, according to the draft of a local law amending the town code, included ensuring that STRs meet fire and safety standards and avoid harming neighbors with nuisances such as noise and trash, while allowing property owners to earn income from their rentals. "It does ensure that there are safe places for people, for tourists, to stay," said Farrell who, along with the rest of the board, scheduled a workshop for Oct. 29. As drafted, the rules establish five categories of STRs, whose owners must apply annually for permits: (1) rentals in which the owner remains on the property, (2) unhosted rentals, (3) one-time rentals for up to 14 consecutive nights once a year, (4) second homes and (5) tourist homes owned by corporations. Those STRs would be confined to three zoning districts: R-1 and I-1, where owners must provide on-site parking or a designated parking area, and the B-1 district. Except for one-time lodgings, stays would be set at between two and 29 consecutive nights. Unhosted lodgings would be limited to 90 nights a year and prohibit parties and "other gatherings or events." Owners with buildings having more than one residence could only rent one as an STR but would be allowed to rent accessory buildings. They would also have to carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance and pass an annual code-enforcement inspection. Fines for violating the regulations would be $1,000 for the first offense; $2,000 for the second, with forfeiture of the permit for the remainder of the year; and $3,000 for the third, with a four-year ban on an STR permit. In other business… The board voted to extend for another six months a moratorium on the approval of oil tanks holding more than 10,000 gallons. Town attorney Stephen Gaba said newly drafted regulations governing tanks should be ready for review next month. With Gaba retiring at the end of the year, the board approved a resolution to solicit bids for the town and the Planning Board, which he also advises. The town hoped to find a replacement from Gaba's firm, Drake Loeb, "but that is not working out," said Van Tassel. Retaining the firm for the Planning Board means "moving their meeting to a different night," he said. "I have spoken with [Planning Board Chair] Neil Zuckerman about it. He's polling his board to make sure that they're OK with it." The board approved an agreement to provide ice and snow removal to Nelsonville for the upcoming winter. Van Tassel said the village received bids for road maintenance whose prices "they could not cover." The board approved a permit for a film company called Doc in a Box Corp. to shoot at the Manitou School on Route 9D. Filming will take place on Oct. 10 for a project titled Best Medicine. According to IMDB, there is an upcoming Netflix series by that name in which "a brilliant surgeon leaves Boston to become a small-town doctor where he spent childhood summers. Despite his medical skills, his rude manner alienates locals as he battles hidden phobias and struggles with personal connections."
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Stamford's Planning Board is set to vote on a contentious “2035 Comprehensive Plan of Conservation and Development,” the city's master plan for the next ten years. Many are concerned about adding more residential density in neighborhoods already overwhelmed by massive growth. We asked Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons to give more details on the proposal and whether this is basically a local “8-30g plan” for the city. For more information on the 2035 plan: https://www.stamfordct.gov/government/operations/stamford-2035-comprehensive-plan Image Credit: Getty Images
In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce President Margaret Joyce and Event Coordinator Jed Allen about the upcoming Apple Harvest Day festival, followed by a monthly recap of city government activities with Media Services' Brian Early and Planning Department's Erin Bassegio.Joyce and Allen detail preparations for Dover's 41st annual Apple Harvest Day on Oct. 4, which expects 50,000-60,000 attendees and features more than 300 vendors. This year's major change involves consolidating all parking and shuttle service at Liberty Mutual's campus. The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with road closures on Central Avenue, Third Street and portions of Henry Law Avenue. The event includes a 5K road race at 8:30 a.m., two entertainment stages, food vendors and craft booths. Vendor applications sold out by early April, the earliest ever, with 50 people currently on a waiting list.Early and Bassegio review September's City Council and Planning Board activities. The City Council approved fire department equipment purchases and set November municipal election hours. The Planning Board approved major residential projects, including 250 units at the former Liberty Mutual site and amendments to the former McIntosh College development. The board also endorsed the high school athletic complex reconstruction project, which has now received final approvals and is going to bid.
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Joe Cuccurullo, running for Holly Springs Town Council, shares his journey from New York to North Carolina and his vision for balancing growth while preserving the community charm that attracted him to the area.• Moved from New York City during the pandemic and opened Resource Room Learning Center in Holly Springs• Joined the Planning Board to understand development decisions after seeing projects like Main Street Vista approved• Advocates for "balanced development" to manage the high demand of people moving to Wake County• Prioritizes public safety, managing density, and expanding services like teen entertainment options• Supports the current town budget's focus on public safety while maintaining low municipal taxes• Wants to create a liaison position to help small businesses navigate the complex development process• Values community events like Springsfest and supports using Ting Park for more entertainment• Believes Holly Springs should remain a multi-generational town with expanded services for seniors• Emphasizes managing density as key to addressing infrastructure challenges• Endorsed by Wake County Republican Party & Holly Springs Committee for Responsible GrowthCuccurullo is one of six candidates running for Holly Springs Town Council, where voters may choose up to three. Early voting begins October 16th, and you'll need a valid ID to vote. Your vote on November 4th will help to shape Holly Springs for generations to come. Make sure you have a plan!JoeForHollySprings.cominfo@joeforhollysprings.comFacebook/Instagram/YouTubeCampaign Finance ReportCampaign Finance Reports for All Candidate CommitteesVoter Information (Register, Am I Registered?, Election Information) Voter Info (Designated Polling Places, Sample Ballots, Registration Status, Voting Jurisdiction, Verify Address and Party Affiliation) Election Information (Absentee by Mail Voting, Early Voting, Election Day Voting) Early Voting Locations October 16-November 1Wake County Board of Elections Office-1200 N. New Hope Road, Raleigh 27610October 25-November 1John M. Brown Community Center-53 Hunter Street, Apex, NC 27502Avery Street Recreation Center-125 Avery Street, Garner, NC 27529Herbert C. Young Community Center-101 Wilkinson Avenue, Cary, NC 27513ELECTION DAYTuesday, November 4 from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PMSupport the showAs always, if you are interested in being on or sponsoring the podcast or if you have any particular issues, thoughts, or questions you'd like explored on the podcast, please email NCDeepDive@gmail.com. Your contributions would be greatly appreciated.Now, let's dive in!
Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
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Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: Live and OnDemand Media Audio Podcast
Watch Download File
Neighbors raised environmental concerns A mining company won approval on Sept. 11 to build a cement plant on Route 9 just north of Philipstown, overcoming concerns from residents about noise, traffic and potential risks to Clove Creek and the aquifer beneath it, a source of drinking water to several municipalities. After a nearly yearlong review, the Town of Fishkill Planning Board approved a plan by Century Aggregates to build an 8,050-square-foot plant at its 310-acre property at 107 Route 9, on a portion of the property once occupied by the Snow Valley Campground. The operation will draw 10,000 gallons of water daily from a new well, and require a new septic system, 12 parking spaces and six propane tanks. Century Aggregates plans to operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 6 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, the firm said. Mixer trucks would enter the site through an entrance opposite Carol Lane and cross an existing bridge over Clove Creek, a protected waterway and tributary to Fishkill Creek that snakes through the property. To address concerns about the environmental impact, Century Aggregates agreed to leave trees and vegetation in an 8.2-acre greenway that is at least 200 feet wide, includes Clove Creek and its shoreline and extends 500 feet north and 700 feet south of the bridge that crosses the waterway. Trees in the zone that "show signs of a material deterioration or tree cover thinning" will have to be replaced, according to Planning Board documents. Ted Warren, public policy manager with the Hudson Highlands Land Trust, joined residents in expressing reservations to the Planning Board during a May 8 public hearing. Along with concerns about truck traffic, noise and dust, and endangered and threatened wildlife such as the timber rattlesnake, Warren said newly paved surfaces risk sending contaminated runoff into the creek, to the detriment of water quality and fish. "Given the increase in extreme precipitation events that we are facing these days, and the fact that the proposed plan is located at the base of steep slopes, the potential for storms to overwhelm the proposed containment and drainage systems during heavy precipitation events should be closely examined," Warren said. Century Aggregate's daily withdrawal of 10,000 gallons of water, which a lawyer for the company called "de minimis" compared to the amount used by homes and businesses, could also affect the creek and its underlying aquifer, said Warren. The aquifer parallels Route 9 from East Mountain Road South to the town border with Fishkill. Its groundwater feeds private wells that supply residents and businesses along Route 9, the towns of Fishkill and Wappinger, the Village of Fishkill and Beacon. "The dust and the pollution that's going to come from the operating of that plant is going to definitely have an impact on the environment, the creek and the living conditions of businesses and houses," Carlos Salcedo, a Philipstown resident whose property on Old Albany Post Road borders the creek, told the Planning Board in May. According to a study based on readings taken at a concrete plant in Hudson, the loudest sounds will come from the blowers on the trucks used to transfer cement to the project's three storage silos, mixer trucks and the loading of the bins that hold the aggregate used in concrete manufacture. The study estimated that "no excessive or unusually loud" sounds will impact neighbors or wildlife, and Century Aggregates agreed to measure noise levels when the plant is operating.
PB92 - Planning Board 8/5/25
We kicked off the week with correspondent John Leahy discussing a successful Red Sox weekend in New York and looking ahead to the NFL season which is just 10 days away. Also mentioned Monday, a Concord Monitor story from Monday which detailed the proposed casino for Concord near the junction of Loudon and Sheep Davis road in close proximity to Route 393. Concord's Planning Board last week granted a year's extension for approval for the first phase of the project from September 1, 2025 to September 1, 2026.
PB90 - Planning Board 6/26/25
PB91 - Planning Board 7/10/25
In Episode 165, Scott Piehler's topics include: A major discrepancy in political donations. The Planning Board approves an eight-story project. A mystery from 2008 is solved. Encouraging results from a chemical removal test. An Alameda rower breaks a dry spell for the USA. Plus arts and the outdoors.Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
How can undergraduate research prepare students for civic engagement in a complex world? How should associations respond when the work of their members is under attack?In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). Lindsay discusses:CUR's mission to expand access to undergraduate research and its proven long-term impact on student success, graduation rates, and civic engagement.The current challenges facing CUR members, including political and funding pressures on research and higher education.The organization's new strategic plan, CUR 2030, which features three major goals and includes cross-cutting themes: broadening participation, organizational sustainability, and communication.The decision to shift from “DEI” language to “broadening participation” to maximize inclusivity and participation, while still preserving the core values.CUR's investment in a board coach to help shift from a “doing board” to a “strategic board” culture, and how that coach continues to foster executive and board collaboration.A rigorous and confidential nominations process that improves the quality and alignment of board candidates, avoiding the pitfalls of popularity contests.A layered onboarding process for new Board members, including coaching, board retreats, and annual reorientation to ensure all board members are aligned and equipped to lead strategically.CUR's emphasis on data, standards, and recognition to position itself as a leader in undergraduate research across higher education institutions.A comprehensive rollout strategy for the new plan, starting with CUR's 300 elected volunteers and culminating in a Fall 2025 campaign for the broader membership.References:CUR WebsiteLindsay Currie's Previous Episode on Associations Thrive from October 2022ASAE's ForesightWorks Framework
In Episode 164, Scott Piehler's topics include: A pipe bomb shuts down traffic. Alameda PD adds patrols and shares the latest crime statistics. The Planning Board to discuss an eight story structure. Local golf, boating, and baseball in the news. Great events for the younger set. Radio Day by the Bay is a success. And, if you think it's been cold lately, you're right.Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
This episode of Title Nerds featured three of Riker Danzig's summer associates and one of our title insurance associates, who expounded on principles of law in cases they had researched and reported on. First up, Co-Host Mike O'Donnell interviewed Noah Wilk of University of Maryland Law School, who discussed Oclar Prop. LLC v. Atl. View Cemetery Assn., Inc., No. A-0834-23, 2023 N.J. Super. Unpub. LEXIS 746 (App. Div. May 6, 2025), which concerned a deal to purchase property for single family residences in which municipal Planning Board approval was required. The Seller ultimately terminated the contract while awaiting Planning Board approval by the Buyer. The Buyer alleged breach of contract and breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The case ultimately was decided by the New Jersey Appellate Division. Next, Co-Host Bethany Abele engaged Meghna Gohil of Wake Forest Law School in a conversation about Keily v. Iler, Mon-C-8-19, 2025 N.J. Super. Unpub. LEXIS 621 (App. Div. Apr. 17, 2025), a recent decision from the New Jersey Superior Court, Monmouth County, Chancery Division. The case involved a contentious dispute between members of a limited liability company and, among other things, interpretation of the LLC's operating agreement and actions taken by two of the LLC members without the knowledge of the third member. Carla Ko of Seton Hall University School of Law then discussed with Mike the Murray v. Newrez LLC case, 24-cv-6160, 2025 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 75676 (E.D.N.Y. Apr. 21, 2025), heard in federal court in New York. This case involved the question of damages for servicing of a mortgage under RESPA without actual, quantifiable harm. Finally, Riker Danzig associate Matthews Florez joined the podcast to provide insight on Grabowski-Shaikh v. Conn. Atts. Title Ins. Co., 2025 WL 35522 (Vt. Dist. Ct. Jan. 6, 2025), a case out of federal court in Vermont. As discussed with Mike, the case decided a title insurer's duty to provide coverage to an insured when the insured claimed title to a disputed parcel of property based on adverse possession. Riker Danzig's Title Insurance Group also produces a “Banking, Title Insurance and Real Estate Litigation Blog,” available here.
On this weeks episode, we are talking about homelessness, an issue that is unfortunately prevalent in Sonoma County. Fortunately, there is a lot of support for homeless individuals including the Lived Experience Advisory and Planning Board, or LEAP. The board is comprised of diverse people with lived experience of homelessness, with an emphasis on racial and ethnic diversity. The purpose of the LEAP Board is to advise Sonoma County on homeless-related programs, policies and how to spend money targeted for homeless services. Here to talk about all of this is the Chair of the LEAP Board, Rebekah Sammet.
PB87 - Planning Board 5/8/25
PB89 - Planning Board 5/22/25
PB88 - Planning Board 5/13/25
PB86 - Planning Board 4/30/25
PB85 - Planning Board 4/24/25
PB84 - Planning Board 4/17/25
PB83 - Planning Board 4/10/25
PB82 - Planning Board 4/7/25
In Episode 158, Scott Piehler's topics include: Alameda joins the No Kings protests. EBMUD raising rates. The Planning Board approves extended hours for a gas station. City Council to vote on the Pacific Fusion sale. The Estuary shuttle is adding more service. How much do you know about pelicans? Remembering Weezie Mott. And, weekend events. Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
In Episode 157, Scott Piehler's topics include: A water quality update. Changes in the Master Fee Schedule. A Planning Board preview. Alameda and the current administration. New members of the AFD Dive team. Crime statistics. A look at real estate sales. Tennessee Williams at Altarena. Plus lots to do with Fido this weekend. Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
In Episode 156, Scott Piehler's topics include: Sinking ships and sick pets-bad news from the water. The District Attorney drops charges in the Radius Recycling Fire. The Planning Board addresses affordable housing. A look ahead to the next City Council meeting. Congratulations to our local Special Olympians. Alameda is one of the top Entrepreneurial cities in America. Plus weekend events. Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
Scientific Sense ® by Gill Eapen: Prof. Tirthankar Roy is professor in economic history at the London School of Economics.His books include the co-authored Law and the Economy in Colonial India (2016) and Law and the Economy in a Young Democracy (2022).Dr. K. Ravi Raman is an Expert Member of the Kerala State Planning Board. He is the author of Global Capital and Peripheral Labour (2009) and Political Ecospatiality: Livelihood, Environment, and Subaltern Struggles (2024).Please subscribe to this channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/ScientificSense?sub_confirmation=1
In Episode 155, Scott Piehler's topics include: Alameda Police on the job, and at City Council. The Planning Board sets their budget. An apartment fire displaces residents. Added security for Ferry commuters. An unexpected change at the Coast Guard. Alameda Health System gets some good news. The latest real estate sales. Activities for your holiday weekend. Congratulations to a local high school thespian. And a change to a local favorite brew.Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
In Episode 153, Scott Piehler's topics include: The CARE Team is renewed. The Planning Board and Nuclear Fusion. The Alameda Rent Program had a busy 2024. Real estate sales and rules. An honor for some local boaters. Another Post story picked up by San Francisco media. Getting to WNBA games just got easier. New CHP cruisers might not catch your eye. Plus, activities for your Mother's Day Weekend, including an art show for a great cause. Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
In Episode 152, Scott Piehler's topics include: The Planning Board grapples with short term rentals. The latest crime statistics. Tunnels and traffic. The car show that wasn't. The Real ID Deadline is upon us. Canine helpers at Alameda Hospital. A preview of the next City Council meeting. Your chance for free ferry tickets. Weekend events, and get ready for some blustery weather. Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •
PB81 - Planning Board 3/27/25
PB80 - Planning Board 3/24/25
In Episode 149, Scott Piehler's topics include: APD busts a fencing ring. AUSD's Teacher of the Year. A preview of the Planning Board and the City Council. The Hands Off Rally draws 1,000 protestors. Mayor Ashcraft named to the national Mayors Institute on Pedestrian Safety. A few changes to the ferry schedules. National Poetry Month. Altarena Playhouse is honored. And another Alameda restaurant says goodbye.Support the show• AlamedaPost.com • Podcast • Events • Contact •• Facebook • Instagram • Threads • BlueSky • Reddit • Mastodon • NextDoor • YouTube • Apple News •